Georgia officials are continuing to warn residents about the growing threat posed by the invasive yellow-legged hornet, a species that can create serious problems for honeybees, agriculture, and the environment.
Atrium Health Floyd EMS has been named Georgia Region 1 EMS Service of the Year, highlighting the organization’s dedication to emergency care across Northwest Georgia.
In addition to the agency honor, Chattooga County paramedic Greg Hawkins, known as “Hawk,” received the prestigious Dr. James Creel Pioneer Award, recognizing outstanding service and leadership in emergency medical services.
The awards were presented by the Northwest Georgia Regional Emergency Medical Services Advisory Council on March 26, 2026.
Local officials and colleagues are praising both Atrium Floyd EMS and Hawkins for their commitment to saving lives and serving their communities with excellence.
WZQZ News congratulates all involved on this well-deserved recognition.
A proposed bill in Georgia could help return billions of dollars in unclaimed money to residents, but the effort is facing challenges at the State Capitol.
Lawmakers say the state is currently holding more than $3 billion in unclaimed property, which includes things like uncashed checks, old bank accounts, refunds, and other funds that belong to individuals.
The legislation would allow the Georgia Department of Revenue to automatically match records and send checks directly to residents, especially for smaller amounts, without requiring people to file a claim.
Supporters say the goal is to make it easier for Georgians to get their money back faster, cutting down on paperwork and making the process more efficient. However, the proposal has raised concerns among some lawmakers because parts of the bill could allow the state to take ownership of certain funds if they remain unclaimed for long periods of time.
The bill has already passed the State Senate but has stalled in a House committee, leaving its future uncertain as the legislative session continues.
A longtime manufacturing facility in Rome is set to close, as Tyson Foods announces it will cease operations at its plant on Darlington Drive later this spring.
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Saturday, March 28, 2026:
A routine traffic stop in Gore led to an arrest after a driver was found to be using a false identity and driving on a suspended license.
A “No Kings” protest is scheduled for today in Chattooga County, with organizers describing it as part of a broader national day of action centered on opposition to authoritarianism and support for democratic principles.
The Internal Revenue Service is expanding access to in-person help by opening select Taxpayer Assistance Centers on Saturdays over the next few months.
The special Saturday hours will run from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on select dates through the end of June, with the next opportunity scheduled for Saturday, March 28.
IRS officials say offices in dozens of states, along with locations in Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico, will participate. During these extended weekend hours, taxpayers can receive help with most services normally offered at a Taxpayer Assistance Center. However, cash payments will not be accepted.
The IRS is encouraging taxpayers to check ahead before visiting by going to IRS.gov/SaturdayHours. The website provides a full list of participating locations, along with important information to review before arriving.
In addition to weekend availability, more than 200 Taxpayer Assistance Centers nationwide are also extending their weekday hours through April 30 to accommodate the busy tax filing season.
To find the nearest office and see what services are offered, taxpayers can use the “Contact Your Local Office” tool on IRS.gov, which includes a locator, directions, and details about extended hours.
Consumer advocate Erin Brockovich is set to return to Northwest Georgia next week as part of an expanded effort to address contamination from “forever chemicals” in the region.
A teacher at Rome Middle School was arrested Monday on a felony charge of possession of a Schedule I controlled substance after police say she was found with a THC vape.