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January 22, 2026

CRC Chattooga Seeking Volunteers as Warming Shelter Plans Ramp Up Ahead of Possible Extreme Cold

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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.

January 22, 2026

by WZQZ NEWS

Armuchee Man Charged with Meth Trafficking After Search Warrant Served at Herring Road Home

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An Armuchee man is facing drug trafficking charges after authorities reportedly found approximately 28 grams of methamphetamine during the execution of a search warrant at a residence on Herring Road. According to an arrest warrant and Floyd County Jail records, 61-year-old Kenneth Gerome Espy was taken into custody following the search. Investigators also reported that Espy had a firearm in his possession. In addition to trafficking, Espy is charged with possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

January 22, 2026

by WZQZ NEWS

Adult Mystery Night Coming to Chattooga Library January 29

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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.

January 22, 2026

by WZQZ NEWS

Rome Emperors to Hold Seasonal Job Fairs Feb. 10 and 12 at AdventHealth Stadium

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The Rome Emperors are gearing up for the upcoming baseball season and are inviting job seekers to a Seasonal Job Fair on two dates in February. The team will host the hiring events on February 10 and February 12 from 6:00 p.m. until 7:30 p.m. in The Terrace at AdventHealth Stadium.

January 22, 2026

by WZQZ NEWS

AdventHealth Redmond Earns Blue Distinction® Center Designation for Bariatric Surgery

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AdventHealth Redmond has been recognized as a Blue Cross Blue Shield Blue Distinction® Center for Bariatric Surgery, a designation awarded to programs that meet nationally established quality measures for patient outcomes, safety standards, and overall program structure. Sarah Hunt, program coordinator of metabolic and bariatric surgery, said the recognition reflects the team’s commitment to whole-person care and gives patients added confidence in the quality and safety of their surgical support. Hospital officials said the bariatric program met comprehensive criteria, including national accreditation, participation in the MBSAQIP quality program, evidence-based practices, and multidisciplinary long-term care. AdventHealth Redmond noted bariatric surgery can help patients living with obesity and related conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and sleep apnea, with individualized care plans and ongoing support available locally. More information is available at BariatricSurgeryGA.com.

January 22, 2026

by WZQZ NEWS

Rep. Eddie Lumsden Recaps Week One Under the Gold Dome as 2026 Session Begins

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State Rep. Eddie Lumsden (R–Armuchee) says the Georgia House returned to Atlanta on January 12 to open the 2026 legislative session, beginning the second regular session of the 158th General Assembly. Lumsden noted the week included recognition of the newly restored House Chamber and adoption of the session calendar, with the 40-day session scheduled to end April 2, known as Sine Die. He also highlighted Governor Brian Kemp’s priorities shared at the Georgia Chamber’s Eggs & Issues Breakfast, including transportation spending proposals, a one-time natural gas infrastructure fund, and a Homeless Response Grant tied to preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Atlanta. Lumsden said Kemp’s final State of the State Address focused on tax relief, cost-of-living issues, education and workforce training, school safety, and public safety priorities, including efforts to combat human trafficking and gang-related crime. The week concluded with a Celebration of Service honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., and Lumsden said lawmakers returned after the holiday for “budget week,” when agencies outline funding needs to appropriations committees. You can see the complete legislative report below:

January 22, 2026

by Jimmy Holbrook

Henry’s BBQ Destroyed by Fire; Community Rallying to Support Henry/Foster Family and Employees

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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

January 21, 2026

by WZQZ NEWS

UPDATE – WEDNESDAY – 4:30 AM – Henry’s BBQ Destroyed by Fire in Summerville, Cause Under Investigation

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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.

January 21, 2026

by WZQZ NEWS

DUI Arrest Reported After Trion Traffic Stop, Report Cites Prescription Drug Impairment Indicators

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The Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office reports 55-year-old Angela Donice Jennings was arrested following a traffic stop in Trion. In the incident narrative, a deputy says Jennings was observed failing to maintain her lane and nearly striking another vehicle before both vehicles pulled into a nearby parking area, identified in the report as the United Community Bank location.

January 21, 2026

by WZQZ NEWS

Georgia Gas Prices Slide Again, Local Averages Updated for Northwest Georgia and Nearby Alabama

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Georgia drivers are getting some relief at the pump as prices continue to ease, and Northwest Georgia is helping lead the way, with AAA showing some of the lowest averages in the state across Chattooga County and the surrounding area while neighboring DeKalb and Cherokee counties in Alabama are also sitting in the mid-$2.50 range.