Crews from the Calhoun Fire Department kept busy yesterday afternoon when a major fire broke out at the Burger King near the WC Bryant Parkway area just after 4 p.m. Thick smoke billowed before crews extinguished the blaze, and EMS treated one person at the scene for smoke inhalation. Fortunately, no serious injuries were reported among workers, customers, or firefighters. Calhoun Fire Chief Mike Shutz joins us now live on the broadcast to provide an update on the fire and the ongoing investigation, following an earlier vehicle fire on Hwy 53 at the 41 intersection.
On the local front, we were joined on air by Gordon County Chief Code Enforcement Officer Joel Hall and Code Enforcement Officer Matthew McHugh to discuss ordinance violations, utilizing their department as a resource, and recognizing that good neighborliness goes a long way in our community.
Additionally, the city council and recreation department unveiled the Ray M. Denmon Playground Dedication plaque this week to honor his 22 years of service and community dedication. Calhoun City Schools is also mourning the loss of former teacher, principal, and administrator Bob Orfield, who dedicated 30 years to the district and proudly served in the U.S. Navy.
Looking at youth activities, Pickleball 706 is gearing up for its “After School. Game On!” youth programs for 3rd through 8th graders at their indoor facility on WC Bryant Parkway. Programs are split into “Little Shots” for 3rd-5th graders on Mondays and Wednesdays from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m., and “Big Shots” for 6th-8th graders on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. Sessions include skills, match play, snacks, and special events for $129 per month with sibling discounts available.
On the economic front, escalating trade disputes and retaliatory tariffs threaten major Northwest Georgia industries, including carpet manufacturing, poultry farming, automotive supply chains, and regional logistics. Specifically, following the breakdown of trade talks, Canada announced a dollar-for-dollar counter-tariff package taking effect September 8, imposing tiered duties of 15%, 25%, and 50% on over 700 American product lines. This includes a steep 50% tariff on U.S. steel and aluminum, alongside 25% tariffs on major appliances, dairy, and agricultural equipment. This pressure coincides with Gordon County gas prices averaging $3.77 per gallon for regular unleaded, as pump prices tick upward statewide driven by crude oil staying elevated above $80 a barrel.
On the diamond, the Atlanta Braves pulled off a thrilling 6-5 walk-off win over the Los Angeles Dodgers at Truist Park. Drake Baldwin led the charge with a pair of doubles, meaning listeners can cash in for a free McDouble at McDonald’s. The Braves continue their home stand against the Dodgers tonight with first pitch set for 7:15 p.m.
