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

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

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

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.

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

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.

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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.

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There’s Hope For The Hungry Food Distribution Happening Today at South Summerville Baptist Church

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.

WZQZ Pet of the Week: Meet Bird Dog at the Chattooga County Animal Shelter

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.

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Chamber Annual General Meeting Set for January 26 in Summerville

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.

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Summerville to Revisit Sanitation Fees Later This Year After Awarding Solid Waste Contract

In a decision made late last year, the City of Summerville City Council awarded a multi-year bid for sanitation services, while signaling that sanitation fees will be reviewed and potentially adjusted later this year during the city’s mid-year budget process. City leaders said the approach gives residents and businesses time to look over possible changes before any new rates take effect.

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Georgia Senator Pushes Bill to End Data Center Tax Break, Citing $625 Million Cost to Taxpayers

A Georgia state senator is renewing a push to make data centers pay more of their own way, sponsoring legislation that would roll back a major sales tax incentive while arguing the savings could be used to reduce taxes for everyone else.

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Arrest Report – Tuesday – January 26, 2026

Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Tuesday, January 20, 2026:

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