Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Monday, December 9, 2024:

Landowners in North Georgia and North Alabama are invited to participate in the establishment of a Public Burn Association (PBA). This association will consist of landowners who collaborate by sharing equipment and conducting controlled forestry burns on their properties. The PBA will appoint a coordinator and provide educational resources. Implementing controlled burns effectively reduces fuel loads on the ground, serving as a proactive measure to mitigate the risk of destructive wildfires, similar to those experienced on the north end of Lookout Mountain over the past several days. Additionally, fire plays a crucial role in creating habitat and vegetation for wildlife, making it an essential tool for restoring upland areas to their native conditions. Landowners are  encouraged to attend the meeting that will be held on December 19th from 2- 4 PM Central Time a the Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce at 801 Cedar Bluff Road in Centre, Alabama.  The meeting is being supported by the U.S. Forest Service, the Alabama Forestry Commission, the Georgia Forestry Commission and others.  For more information, contact Ryan Mitchell at 850-758-8559.

The inquiry into the tragic accident that resulted in the death of a Rome Water and Sewer Division employee is currently underway. Fifty-five-year-old James Rayburn sustained a fatal injury on Thursday evening while engaged in a city water project in West Rome.

Michael Walters, who was working alongside Rayburn, experienced minor injuries.

As stated by John Boyd, the Director of the Rome Water and Sewer Division, the incident took place during the second night of construction for a new sewer service intended for a local business. Kristy Shappard, the Director of Human Resources and Risk Management, indicated that the city has enlisted a third-party municipal risk consultant to oversee the investigation.

Officials say that further details are being verified, and additional information will be provided as it becomes available.

The Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office responded to a call about a woman causing disturbances in the Dry Creek Road area on November 29th. The woman, 37-year-old Julia Cecelia Westover, was arrested on several charges, including criminal damage to property, obstruction of officers, public drunkenness, simple assault involving family violence, and simple battery against a law enforcement officer. A deputy’s report states that Westover was seen walking on Dry Creek Road and appeared unresponsive to emergency signals. When approached, she showed signs of intoxication, such as bloodshot eyes and a strong smell of alcohol. During her arrest, Westover became aggressive, kicking one deputy in the stomach. She continued to yell insults and make threats as she was placed in the sheriff’s patrol vehicle. Her boyfriend explained that Westover had damaged their home by throwing items and breaking windows, all in front of their three teenage sons.  Westover was placed under arrest and charged with criminal damage to property, obstruction of law enforcement, public drunkenness, simple battery and simple assault and was booked into the Chattooga County Jail.

A 42-year-old man, identified as Joshua Lee Sword, was arrested early November 30th after leading law enforcement on a high-speed chase through the streets of Summerville. The arrest culminated from a series of traffic violations, including driving with a suspended license, failure to stop at a stop sign, and reckless driving.

According to a report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office, the incident began around 1:16 AM when a deputy spotted a silver Jeep Commander, commonly associated with Sword, traveling erratically near Silver Hill Road. After observing Sword’s vehicle make a dangerous left turn into a driveway, the deputy turned his patrol car around, only to see the Jeep back on the road, continuing westward at speeds exceeding 80 mph.

The pursuit intensified as Sword ignored multiple traffic signals and exhibited reckless driving behavior, swerving across lanes and failing to stop at a stop sign at the intersection with Highway 100. Upon finally bringing the vehicle to a halt, the deputy exited his patrol car and ordered Sword to exit the vehicle. After complying, Sword was placed under arrest.

During a search, deputies discovered a plastic bag containing a crystal-like substance, later identified as methamphetamine, in Sword’s possession. Further investigation revealed that both Sword and his passenger, Christopher Stephens, were on felony probation. Sword exhibited signs of drug influence, prompting officers to administer a blood test. He was subsequently transported to Chattooga County Detention without any further incident.

Sword was charged with multiple charges, including DUI drugs, possession of methamphetamine, and tampering with evidence, among others.

A heartfelt retirement celebration for Chattooga County Coroner Earle Rainwater was held at the Summerville Civic Center on Saturday afternoon, drawing a crowd of public officials and community members eager to express their gratitude for his remarkable 48 years of dedicated service.

The reception was a gathering of admiration, with attendees sharing stories and memories of Rainwater’s contributions to the county. As a staple in the community, Rainwater has played a vital role in providing comfort and support to families during their most challenging times.

Coroner-Elect Jeremy McElhaney made an announcement on Saturday evening.

“I figure this will be a good time to let everyone know that he’s not going anywhere,” McElhaney said. He revealed that despite his retirement, Rainwater would continue to serve the community in a new capacity, agreeing to assist on a limited basis as Senior Deputy Coroner. “Earle has a wealth of knowledge in the Coroner’s Office, and I’m very thankful that he is willing to stay on and share it with me,” McElhaney added.

As the community bids farewell to Earle Rainwater as their coroner, his legacy of compassion, professionalism, and dedication will undoubtedly endure, with many grateful citizens looking forward to his continued involvement in supporting the county and the new coroner-elect.

On Friday, December 6, 2024, the Lookout Mountain Judicial Circuit held a ceremony to honor the retirements of Superior Court Judge Kristina Cook Graham and her secretary Ann Willis. The reception took place at the Summerville Depot, which was beautifully decorated for the winter season, fitting for the festive atmosphere.

Attorneys from Chattooga, Catoosa, Walker, and Dade Counties gathered at noon for a special lunch celebrating the contributions of Judge Graham and Ann Willis. Judge Graham made history as the first female Superior Court Judge in the circuit, appointed by Governor Zell Miller in 1992, and has served for over three decades.

Earlier this year, it was reported that Judge Graham chose not to run for re-election. During her time in office, she set up three accountability courts, including a drug court, mental health court, and parental accountability court, greatly benefiting the community. The drug court has over 80 graduates, demonstrating its positive impact on reducing incarceration rates and improving lives.

Present at the event were other judges from the circuit and the newly-elected Melissa Hise, who will take Judge Graham’s place after January 1.

The City of Summerville will hold its Regular Called Meeting coming up this evening at 5 PM at Summerville City Hall, located on Georgia Avenue across from Summerville First Baptist Church.  A Question and Answer Session will start at 4:30 PM for residents to express their concerns with Mayor Harry Harvey and council members. Topics will include approving minutes from November 2024, financial decisions for water pump upgrades and the swearing in of Heather Ballard as a new member on the Summerville Main Street Board of Directors.  You can find a complete agenda for tonight’s meeting below.  WZQZ News will broadcast tonight’s meeting on our Facebook Page.

Firefighters from Hays Correction Fire Department and Trion Fire Department responded to a vehicle fire on Ridgeway Drive on Sunday afternoon.  Firefighters found the vehicle in flames upon arrival.  Fortunately, there were no injuries reported.  The road was closed for a period of time while firefighters extinguished the blaze.  No word on what might have caused the vehicle fire.

Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Sunday, December 8, 2024:

If you are an Alabama EBT card holder and you attempted to use your card after 10 PM last night, you probably already know that the EBT system was down overnight.  The Alabama Department of Human Resources says that the outage was planned so that the state could update their system with new features for EBT card holders.  The statewide system was scheduled to be restored at 6 AM this morning and should be working today.  In addition to the new features on the state’s EBT system, the Alabama DHR says that the system will now have enhanced safety features to protect Alabama residents using their EBT cards.

The City of Summerville is announcing a job opening for a Parks and Recreation Director. This important role involves managing the city’s parks, recreation operations, and facilities to enhance community engagement and promote healthy lifestyles. The director will oversee all programs, ensure the smooth operation of facilities, implement departmental policies, manage payroll, and assist with scheduling games and practices.

Additionally, they will monitor the maintenance of sports fields and recreation areas, ensuring safety and accessibility. A major responsibility includes preparing and managing the annual budget while keeping track of expenses. The director will also assist in training and evaluating coaches and officials to maintain high standards for sports programs. Community involvement is essential, as the director will participate in youth games and events to engage with residents.

The city encourages qualified candidates passionate about community service and recreation management to apply. Interested individuals can find more details and submit their applications on the city’s official website HERE

It has been cold throughout much of this past week around Northwest Georgia, and more chilly temperatures are on the way.

The Salvation Army of Rome, GA reminds locals that a White Flag is raised whenever temperatures drop below freezing. That means that the non-profit is poised to provide shelter to anyone who wants to get out of the cold, states Major Hank Harwell, Corps Officer.

Warm coats, sweaters, scarves, hats, and gloves are also available to those in need, according to Major Harwell.

The Salvation Army of Rome, GA is located at 317 East 1^st Avenue. It may be reached via phone at (706) 291-4745.

The Salvation Army of Rome serves residents in Floyd, Chattooga and Polk Counties.

The City of Summerville will hold its Regular Called Meeting on December 9, 2024, at 5:00 p. m. at City Hall. A Question and Answer Session will start at 4:30 p. m. for residents to express their concerns. The meeting will begin with a call to order, roll call, an invocation, and the Pledge of Allegiance. Topics include approving minutes from November 2024, financial decisions for water pump upgrades, comments from Mayor Harry Harvey, business recognitions, and updates from city officials. Residents can participate in public comments.  WZQZ News will broadcast the meeting live on our Facebook Page.

Trion First Baptist Church invites the community to a “Campfire Christmas” event this evening from 5 PM – 8 PM. This gathering will take place at Camp Hamby, off Hair Lake Road, offering an evening of food, family fun, and fellowship. Activities for children and youth will include games like Capture the Flag, Glow in the Dark Kickball, Hide and Seek, and Cookie Decorating. Participants will sing Christmas carols, play Christmas Trivia, and enjoy a special devotional. Attendees should bring a chair and a blanket for comfort. Located at 95 Church Street in Trion, the church looks forward to welcoming everyone for a joyful night at Camp Hamby. For more information, contact the church or visit their Facebook page.

Georgia’s economy is expected to grow by 2. 4% in 2025, slowing from a 3. 1% growth in 2024, according to the University of Georgia Selig Center for Economic Growth.

This growth is still faster than the projected 1. 6% for the national economy. The slowdown is linked to a policy shift by the Federal Reserve to control inflation, which has dropped from 8% in 2022 to a projected 3% in 2025.

Georgia’s job growth is anticipated to slow to 1% in 2025, compared to 1. 5% in 2024. The unemployment rate may rise from 3. 7% to 4%. Areas like health care and housing are expected to drive economic growth, with housing construction projected to increase by 9%.

Despite a national slowdown, Georgia’s economic development strengths suggest continued growth. For further details, visit the UGA Selig Center’s website or attend related events.

The status of the Chattooga River as a “navigable” waterway is a hot topic as Georgia legislators deal with fishing rights. The main issue is defining which rivers and streams in Georgia are considered navigable and thus open to fishing. The Chattooga River is one of 64 waterways under review, with questions about its actual navigability based on an 1863 state law that requires a stream to transport boats with freight for part of the year. Transporting timber in small boats is not enough for a stream to be classified as navigable.

If the Chattooga River is classified as navigable, questions remain about which parts of it are accessible, as some areas may be very shallow. This ambiguity affects the Town of Trion, the City of Summerville and the Town of Lyerly in Chattooga County, which may suffer in terms of eco-tourism if excluded from navigable sections. A group of boating enthusiasts wants the right to float on Georgia’s rivers separated from fishing and hunting rights. This debate stems from a property owner’s attempt to ban fishing on part of the Flint River, which led the legislature to clarify public fishing rights but not the navigability questions.

Legislation introduced by House Majority Whip James Burchett seeks to name 64 rivers as “presumed to be navigable,” but the proposal faces opposition for potentially limiting public access. Critics argue that it doesn’t reflect the true extent of recreational boating in Georgia.

Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Saturday, December 7, 2024:

The Trion Police Department is assisting in an investigating after a tanker truck explosion at Mount Vernon Mills that happened early Friday morning. When emergency responders arrived, they found the truck driver unresponsive and later declared him dead at the scene. The tanker was unloading salt needed for manufacturing when it exploded. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is leading an investigation into the accident.  Chattooga County Coroner Earle Rainwater confirmed to WZQZ News on Friday evening that the deceased truck driver was 53-year-old Richard Tooley of Christina, Tennessee.