Students and recent graduates interested in public service and state government now have an opportunity to gain firsthand experience inside Georgia’s Executive Office.
The City of Summerville is recognizing Georgia Municipal Court Clerks Week and honoring the court professionals who help keep the city’s municipal court operating efficiently.
City officials extended appreciation to Chief Municipal Court Clerk Paula Womack and Deputy Court Clerk Stephanie Lathem for their service, professionalism and commitment to the community.
The city said their work includes assisting citizens, coordinating court proceedings, maintaining records and supporting daily court operations.
Officials said Womack and Lathem play an important role in helping ensure the fairness and effectiveness of City Court.
Chattooga County Coroner Jeremy A. McElhaney and the staff of the Chattooga County Coroner’s Office are recognizing Senior Deputy Coroner William Earle Rainwater for 50 years of dedicated service to the citizens of Chattooga County.
Chattooga County native Spencer Hogg has been named chief of staff for U.S. Congressman Clay Fuller.
Hogg officially joined Congressman Fuller’s team on April 14th. He brings experience in economic development, government relations, and constituent service to the role.
Most recently, Hogg served as President and CEO of the Rome Floyd County Development Authority. He previously worked with the Northwest Georgia Joint Development Authority, serving as President and CEO, Vice President of Economic Development and Government Relations, and Economic Development Project Manager.
Hogg also has prior experience on Capitol Hill, having worked in the U.S. House of Representatives in the offices of Congressmen Tom Graves and Jody Hice.
In a statement to WZQZ News, Hogg said, “It’s the honor of a lifetime to join Rep. Clay Fuller as his Chief of Staff. Northwest Georgia raised me, and I look forward to fighting every day for the place I am proud to call home. I appreciate the chance to work for a Congressman that is committed to rural values and defending our communities.”
Cherokee County, Alabama marked a major milestone Friday with a ceremony honoring the transition from its longtime courthouse to a new, modern facility in Centre.
Walker County has received a 2026 Georgia County Excellence Award from ACCG, Georgia’s County Association, for innovation in county government.
The county was recognized for its spay and neuter voucher initiative, a program designed to reduce unwanted litters and improve animal welfare across Walker County.
The program provides up to 40 free vouchers each month for companion animals. Each voucher is valued at $200 and covers spay or neuter services, microchipping, and a rabies vaccination.
During the first eight months, Walker County Animal Shelter staff issued about 190 vouchers, resulting in 61 female cats, 36 male cats, 44 female dogs, and 49 male dogs being altered.
County officials say the program is already making an impact. Compared to 2024, the shelter saw a 64% decrease in owner surrenders during September, October, and November. Surrenders of kitten and puppy litters dropped by nearly 80% during that same period.
The program is funded entirely through donations, and more than 500 people are currently on the waiting list for a voucher.
Walker County was one of six counties recognized statewide for programs that improve their communities.
The City of Summerville is moving forward with a new summer internship program aimed at giving local students hands-on experience in municipal government.
Georgia Power is encouraging eligible customers to apply for its Income-Qualified Discount program, which is designed to help lower monthly energy bills for households that meet income and program requirements.
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs announced significant progress in reducing wait times for disability claims and survivor benefits, highlighting major improvements in service for Veterans and their families.
Lanny Thomas was officially sworn in Thursday to serve in the Georgia State Senate representing District 53.
Thomas called it a special day for his family and for Northwest Georgia, saying it is an honor he does not take lightly.
In a statement following the ceremony, Thomas said District 53 now has strong leadership and a voice at the Capitol. He thanked supporters, family, and friends who joined him in Atlanta, and said he is ready to represent all residents, including families, workers, small businesses, and local communities.
Thomas also reminded voters that another election is coming up on May 19th, encouraging residents to make a plan to vote as he seeks to continue serving in the next term.
He said the goal moving forward is to keep Northwest Georgia moving forward together.