(From left) Lauretta Hannon, executive director of Institutional Advancement at GNTC; Kathi Vroman; scholarship recipient Shasten Tomas; Tim Vroman, who is holding a photo of GNTC Aviation Maintenance Technology graduate Matthew Vroman; and Jon Byrd, executive director of Aviation at GNTC and Technical College System of Georgia (TCSG) state aviation advisor, celebrate the award of the first Matthew Vroman Memorial Scholarship.

Georgia Northwestern Technical College (GNTC) has named Shasten Tomas as the first recipient of the Matthew Vroman Memorial Scholarship. This scholarship honors Matthew Vroman, who graduated from GNTC’s Aviation Maintenance Technology program and tragically passed away in 2024 at age 25 due to health struggles. It supports students in aviation who exemplify Vroman’s kindness, strong values, and hardworking spirit.

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Due to an email issue, WZQZ News didn’t receive arrest reports from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office on Tuesday and Wednesday mornings.  Here is the latest arrest report for March 17-19, 2025 as of 4:30 PM, March 19, 2025:

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A request by two Walker County residents to have their dog euthanized by a local veterinarian results in their arrest.

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Rocking S Farm, LLC’s attempt to challenge Chattooga County’s ordinance regarding commercial poultry operations has been dealt a blow in the Superior Court of Chattooga County. In a ruling issued by Judge Don Thompson denied the farm’s request for a preliminary injunction and a declaratory judgment against the county’s ordinance. The legal battle, Civil Action File No. 2025CA45724, pitted Rocking S Farm, LLC against Andy Allen, in his official capacity as the sole county commissioner of Chattooga County.

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Northwest Georgia will see rain and strong winds starting tonight, following a period of sunny weather. A cold front is moving east across the central U. S. , bringing scattered showers mainly after midnight. The National Weather Service predicts light rain, averaging less than a quarter of an inch, with a low chance of thunderstorms.

Today’s weather forecast shows mostly sunny skies with a high near 77 degrees. Winds will increase to 10-15 mph, with gusts up to 30 mph. A WIND ADVISORY is in effect from noon until 10 PM EDT, predicting winds of 10 to 20 mph and gusts up to 40 mph.  Also, a FIRE WEATHER WATCH is in place for today for all of Northwest Georgia.

Rain is expected tonight with a low around 46 degrees. A 30% chance of showers is possible on Thursday, with a high near 51 degrees. Temperatures will drop to around 31 degrees overnight, with recommended precautions for driving and securing outdoor items.

Cooler temperatures are expected headed into the weekend with highs in the 60’s on Thursday and up to around 70 on Friday.  The next chance for rain is on Sunday.

As the seasons change the City of Summerville is emphasizing proper brush management and offers convenient brush pickup services. Accumulated brush can be hazardous, posing risks for wildfires, attracting pests, and blocking pathways. Scheduled curbside brush pickup is available, aiding residents in disposing of large amounts of brush easily. Key benefits include reducing fire hazards, supporting environmental health through mulch and compost, providing convenience, and controlling pests. Residents should check the pickup schedule, prepare brush correctly, keep materials separate, and avoid contamination. The City encourages community involvement in clean-up events and environmental programs while stressing the importance of following local burning regulations.  You can find out more on the City of Summerville’s website HERE

With warmer weather on the horizon, Chattooga County Tax Commissioner Joy Hampton is reminding residents about the importance of boating safety. Many area residents will be headed to nearby Weiss Lake in neighboring Cherokee County, Alabama to enjoy boating and lake recreation. In a recent announcement, Hampton highlighted a new Alabama law requiring all boat and jet ski operators, including Georgia residents, to complete a boating certification course.  Hampton stated, “It’s starting to feel like boating weather and here’s a reminder, Alabama now requires all boat or jet ski operators to complete a boating certification course and that includes Georgia residents.” Detailed information about the new requirement and any exemptions can be found on the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) website HERE The website also provides a list of approved boating safety courses. Hampton urged boaters not to delay in completing the certification, noting that the process can take time. However, boaters born before April 28, 1954, are exempt from the requirement. The reminder comes as residents prepare to enjoy the upcoming boating season, emphasizing the importance of safety regulations and responsible operation of watercraft.

The Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) is requesting the public’s assistance in solving the decades-old homicide of Mary Angela Woodey Smith, a 17-year-old girl whose skeletal remains were discovered in Rossville, Georgia on October 13, 1982. Smith was last seen on July 11, 1982, in Chattanooga, Tennessee, just months before her remains were found. Authorities have ruled her death a homicide. Despite the passage of time, the GBI remains committed to bringing closure to Smith’s family and holding those responsible for her death accountable. Investigators are urging anyone who may have information, no matter how seemingly insignificant, regarding Mary Angela Woodey Smith’s disappearance or death to come forward. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the GBI tip line at 1-800-597-TIPS (8477). Anonymous tips can also be submitted by calling the same number or by visiting HERE

The Walker County Animal Shelter is inviting the community to a free Vaccine Clinic and Adoption Event this Saturday, March 22nd, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The event will be held at the shelter’s location at 5488 North Marble Top Road, Chickamauga. No appointments are necessary. The shelter will be offering free DHPP vaccines for dogs and FVRCP vaccines for cats. Microchips will also be available for just $10. Pet owners are reminded that dogs must be kept on a leash and cats must be secured in a carrier for the safety of all animals and attendees. In addition to the free vaccine clinic, the shelter is waiving adoption fees for all animals. This is a fantastic opportunity to find a new furry friend and provide a loving home for a deserving animal. While adoption fees are waived, donations to support the shelter’s ongoing efforts are always greatly appreciated.

According to information released on Tuesday afternoon, Judge Don Thompson is expected to announce his decision in the ongoing legal battle between Chattooga County government and Rocking S Farm LLC.  The judge has been provided supporting briefs and memorandum of the law from both parties and will likely make a decision this morning.  WZQZ News will have more information as it becomes available.