Henry’s BBQ, a longtime staple in Chattooga County, was destroyed by fire Tuesday evening, leaving the restaurant a total loss and putting multiple local families in a difficult and uncertain position. Those close to the business say the Henry/Foster family has long been known for being kind and hardworking, and that Chasity has poured her heart into keeping the family restaurant running while serving the community. Employees who depended on those shifts now have no workplace to return to as they try to provide for themselves and their families. The loss extends beyond the building itself, impacting a business that has been part of daily life in Chattooga County for years and the workers who helped keep it going. Supporters are now asking the public to consider donating if they are able and to share the fundraising page widely to help the family and employees navigate the difficult days ahead. Here is a link to the fundraising account: Here
February is more than just a bridge between winter and spring—it’s a season for connection, and Summerville Main Street is inviting the community to help “paint the town red” with the return of the “Live, Love, Local” Heart Project. Throughout the month of February, Downtown Summerville will be lined with personalized, heart-shaped messages designed to celebrate the people, places, and stories that make the community special.
Organizers say the project is a chance for everyone to share a message in a fun and visible way, whether it’s a shout-out to a favorite small business, a tribute to a loved one, a school celebration, or a note of encouragement for the community. Hearts can be purchased as a single-sided display for $30 or double-sided for $50, and orders can be placed by visiting the Summerville Main Street office at 179 Union Street.
Spaces are limited, and the deadline to order is January 23. For more information, contact Summerville Main Street at 706-859-0900 Ext. 1337 or visit summervillega.org.
The Chattooga County Chamber of Commerce is sharing a reminder from the Chattooga County Commissioner’s Office that a new local sales tax rate is now in effect.
Officials say the Chattooga County sales tax rate increased to 8% beginning January 1, 2026, and businesses are being urged to make sure their registers, point-of-sale systems, invoicing software, and online checkout platforms have been updated to reflect the correct rate.
The reminder encourages all local businesses to verify compliance to avoid pricing errors and accounting issues.
For reference, the Georgia Department of Revenue maintains an online listing of sales tax rates by location.
The Chattooga County Chamber of Commerce is spotlighting its Shared Workspaces program at the Hurley Community Development Center, offering a convenient option for entrepreneurs, remote workers, traveling professionals, and small businesses looking for a productive place to work in Chattooga County.
The Chattooga County Chamber of Commerce has moved its offices to the Hurley Community Development Center in downtown Summerville, a transition leaders say will strengthen the Chamber’s ability to serve members and support continued growth across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia.
A longtime downtown Summerville favorite is preparing to say goodbye. Sugarville Sweets Bakery, Coffee & Café has announced it will close its doors after 10 and a half years in business, marking the end of an era for many local customers.
The Chattooga County Chamber of Commerce held its annual awards banquet and silent auction on March 29, 2025, at Sarah Jane Farms. The event celebrated local businesses and individuals who have contributed significantly to the community and raised funds for the Leadership Chattooga Student Edition program, which helps high school juniors and seniors develop leadership skills and knowledge about their local area. Cindy McGraw, the Executive Director of the Chamber, expressed gratitude to all community members for their contributions.













