Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Thursday, January 22, 2026:
CRC Chattooga is asking for community volunteers as preparations increase for the possibility of opening a warming station this weekend if extreme cold conditions develop. Organizers say the ability to open the shelter depends entirely on having enough volunteers to staff it, noting that without sufficient help, the shelter cannot be operated safely. CRC Chattooga is seeking evening and overnight volunteers, and may also need day-shift volunteers if weather conditions limit travel. The group is also looking for people to help provide meals, which could include simple options like sandwich supplies and bread depending on power conditions, and volunteers willing to offer encouragement and support to guests. Those who can help are asked to use the sign-up link provided by CRC Chattooga to indicate how they can serve.
Adults in Chattooga County can put their detective skills to the test later this month during “Adult Mystery Night” at the Chattooga Library in Summerville. The event is set for Thursday, January 29, 2026, from 6 PM until 8 PM at 360 Farrar Drive.
The program is hosted by the Sara Hightower Regional Library System and is open to anyone on or off Facebook, but it is designed for adults ages 18 and up. Organizers say participants will work together to solve a mystery, encouraging friends to come as a group and team up to crack the case.
Library officials say refreshments will be served during the two-hour event. Anyone who enjoys mystery stories, puzzles, or interactive games is invited to attend and take part in the evening’s activities.
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
A Winter Storm Watch is now in effect for a large portion of North and Northwest Georgia, including Chattooga and Walker County areas, from late Friday night through Monday morning. The National Weather Service says heavy mixed precipitation is possible during that time, with total snow and sleet accumulations up to four inches and ice accumulations greater than one quarter of an inch also possible.
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Wednesday, January 21, 2026:
Henry’s BBQ Fire Likely Started Near Front Heater; Employee Heard Popping Before Smoke Filled Dining Area
Fire officials now say the Tuesday night fire at Henry’s BBQ in Summerville may have started in or around a heater near the front of the restaurant. Summerville Police Chief and Public Safety Director Brian Ozment said an employee was in the back of the building preparing for business the next day when she heard popping sounds coming from the front. When she went to check, Ozment said the front area was already filled with heavy smoke.
There’s Hope For The Hungry is distributing free food today at South Summerville Baptist Church in Summerville, Wednesday, January 21st, from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. No ID is required, but food must be picked up in person.
There’s Hope for the Hungry is a North Georgia Christian ministry that works to combat food insecurity through partnerships with local churches. The organization uses mobile food pantry trucks to deliver groceries to distribution sites like this one, providing free food while also offering encouragement and prayer for anyone who would like it.
Families who attend can expect grocery-style boxes that may include canned goods, fresh produce, and other dry items, though supplies can vary depending on what is available.
Each week, WZQZ will feature a pet from the Chattooga County Animal Shelter that needs a loving new home, and this week’s spotlight is on Bird Dog. Bird Dog is a 2-year-old male who is neutered, good with other dogs, and ready to meet his match.
The Chattooga County Chamber of Commerce will hold its Chamber Annual General Meeting on Monday, January 26, 2026, at 6 p.m. The meeting will take place at 10050 Commerce Street in Summerville.