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January 22, 2026

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.

January 21, 2026

by WZQZ NEWS

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

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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.

January 21, 2026

by WZQZ NEWS

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

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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.

January 21, 2026

by WZQZ NEWS

Chamber Annual General Meeting Set for January 26 in Summerville

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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.

January 21, 2026

by WZQZ NEWS

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

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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.