Chattooga County Sheriff Mark Schrader released a statement to local media explaining the circumstances surrounding the arrest of Billy Joe Dooley following a crash Friday evening that resulted in DUI charges.
The potential is increasing for another significant winter storm to impact parts of the eastern United States this coming weekend. Forecasters emphasize it is still too early to pin down exact details, but confidence is growing that a storm system could develop and move through while very cold air remains in place.
Meteorologists say a disturbance is expected to move out of Canada later this week, helping a stronger low-pressure system form across the East. If that system tracks in the right corridor, it could bring widespread precipitation that may fall as rain, snow, or a mix, depending on where the coldest air sets up. The biggest uncertainties right now include the storm’s timing, track, and strength, which will determine what areas see the greatest impacts.
For Northwest Georgia and the surrounding region, the message for now is preparedness without panic. Residents should keep checking updated forecasts through the week, especially as we get closer to Friday and Saturday when forecast confidence typically improves. Now is also a good time to review weekend travel plans, make sure you have supplies in case of slick roads or power issues, and plan ahead for pets, pipes, and outdoor needs if colder, wetter conditions move in.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.