We’ve assembled a team of well-established and highly experienced financial professionals. It has given us the ability to address every aspect of our clients’ financial needs. And by limiting the number of clients we serve, it allows us to offer an uncommon level of service and maintain our unwavering focus on helping to create quality financial solutions.
This is what we bring to the table – and what will ultimately bring you to us. If you are an individual seeking seasoned financial guidance and the comfort of working with an experienced group of advisors who call Chattanooga home, we welcome the opportunity to sit down together. Main Office: 1200 Premier Drive, Suite 100 •
Photographed at Ruby Falls
LAKE FRONT
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SCAN TO GET EARLY ACCESS TO FUTURE ISSUES AND KEEP UP WITH LOCAL EVENTS
“There
is no better excess in the world than the excess of gratitude.” – Jean de La Bruyère
As the New Year approaches, it’s easy to get caught up in the whirlwind that is year-end. Between budget meetings, preparing to host family and friends, and planning for the year ahead, it’s often habitual to overlook how fortunate we are to have a time of year that offers special moments to draw us all together.
When we take the time to slow down, the holiday season can be synonymous with the spirit of giving, time spent with loved ones, and taking a much-needed break to relax and reflect. In this Winter Issue of CityScope® magazine, we highlight the many aspects that make the holiday season in our area so special.
Year-round, we have incredible people who donate their time and energy to serving others. Around the holiday season, that call to serve is even greater. In “Serving with Heart,” local families share with us what inspires them to volunteer and the bonds it creates. Next up, “Partners for Life” features couples who have mastered the art of partnership through dance. Adventure awaits in the article “Into the Unknown,” in which six local cavers share with us their passion for the sport. Finally, in “Scenic City Scientists” we shed light on professionals from fields ranging from weather to food science and their work behind the scenes of our everyday lives.
It wouldn’t be the holidays without food, activities, and gifts that bring us all together. From luxurious gift ideas and supporting local nonprofits to holiday fashion, dining, and seasonal activities for the whole family, you’re sure to find something to fill your cup with cheer.
Not to be missed, the special “Premier Living” section showcases four stunning residences and their unique designs and styles, while “Meet the Presidents” features young leaders heading up the class of 2025.
Although this season is busy, it’s filled with joy, warmth, and special moments often found in the mundane. Our hope is that you take a moment to step back, find a quiet, crisp night, and enjoy this Winter Issue of CityScope® magazine.
Happy holidays and happy reading!
Cailey Mullinix Easterly, Co-Publisher
P.S. Follow CityScope® and HealthScope® magazines and the Choose Chattanooga® – Chattanooga Resource & Relocation Guide® on social media!
VENETIAN PRINCESS
Celebrating the City
Departments
“Winter,
VOLUME 32, ISSUE 3 • WINTER 2024
Publisher George Mullinix
Co-Publisher Cailey Mullinix Easterly
Sales & Business
Development
Amanda Worley
Design Lead, Sr. Graphic Designer Lauren Robinson
Sr. Graphic Designer Tamara Slocum
Managing Editor Rachel Studebaker
Editors
Editor/Digital
Gray Bennett
Kristen Dee Tory Irmeger
Content Specialist Ali Lemmons
Director of
Digital Marketing Ruth Kaiser De Backer
Digital Marketing Assistant Houston McLain
Digital Marketing Specialist Katie Faulkner
Digital Marketing Intern Bryan Hunt
Marketing,
Events, & Operations Laci Lanier Jackson
Photographers
Creative Revolver Rich Smith
David and Drew Photography Ryan Long Hacker Medias Vityl Media
Kristina Armstrong
Subscribe to CityScope® or HealthScope® magazines: Call 423.266.3440 or visit cityscopemag.com or health scopemag. com and click “Subscribe.” A one-year subscription for CityScope® or HealthScope® magazine costs $18.
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CityScope® and HealthScope® magazines and Choose Chattanooga® – Chattanooga Resource & Relocation Guide® (the magazines) are published by CMC Publications, LLC, a Chattanooga, Tennessee company. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is strictly prohibited. Views expressed herein are those of the authors or those interviewed and not necessarily those of the publisher, editors, or advertisers. The publisher, editors, and advertisers disclaim any responsibility or liability for such material. All content associated with and included in advertisements (ads, advertorial, and special promotional sections) placed in the magazines are the responsibility of the respective advertiser. CMC Publications, LLC, cannot and does not assume responsibility for any material contained within or associated with any advertisement.
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Copyright, CMC Publications, LLC, 1993
CityScope® magazine is a registered trademark owned by CMC Publications, LLC.
HealthScope® magazine
Copyright, CMC Publications, LLC, 1989
HealthScope® magazine is a registered trademark owned by CMC Publications, LLC.
Choose Chattanooga® –
Chattanooga Resource & Relocation Guide®
Copyright, CMC Publications, LLC, 2011
Choose Chattanooga® and Chattanooga Resource & Relocation Guide® are registered trademarks owned by CMC Publications, LLC.
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Chattanooga City Lights
November
21
Gratefull
The tradition continues at Gratefull, Chattanooga’s free community-wide Thanksgiving luncheon. The meal will be held from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. in front of the Bessie Smith Cultural Center. Party Bites will provide turkey and dressing, and other area businesses will donate sides and drinks. Attendees are encouraged to bring nonperishable food and hygienic supplies to benefit the Maclellan Shelter for Families. gratefullcha.org
23-24
Christkindlmarkt Walk over to Coolidge Park for holiday merriment with the whole family! Visitors to this Germaninspired holiday market can expect food, drinks, treats, and over 75 festive vendor booths to explore. Complete with twinkling lights and fanciful appearances from The Christkind, Krampus, and Santa himself, visitors of all ages can enjoy the holiday magic. shopthemarketat.com
28
Fitness Central’s Turkey Trot ‘24 Chattanooga’s longest standing Thanksgiving road race returns for its 34th year! Race events include a 4-mile certified race, a 1-mile family walk and jog, and a Kiddie-K. Dogs and strollers are welcome. Proceeds support the Chattanooga Track Club’s year-round youth and adult running and fitness programs promoting health and fitness in our community. chattanoogatrackclub.org/calendar/events/fitnesscentral-turkey-trot-2024-593
28 25th Annual Grateful Gobbler 5K Walk/Run
The Grateful Gobbler 5K family and pet friendly Walk/Run is in its 25th year! On-site festivities are set to begin at 7 a.m. before the 8 a.m. start time. All proceeds from the Grateful Gobbler benefit the Maclellan Shelter for Families. gratefulgobblerwalk.org
December
13 Share Your Christmas
Local 3 News and the Chattanooga Area Food Bank are thrilled to present the 40th annual Share Your Christmas food and fund drive. Share Your Christmas runs from Nov. 11 until Dec. 31, and you can tune in to Local 3 News for the Share Your Christmas celebration event on Friday, Dec. 13 starting at 4:30 a.m. donate.chattfood bank.org/page/SYC25
15 Lodge Cast Iron Cook-Off
The Lodge Cast Iron Cook-Off is an exciting live cooking demonstration and competition where local chefs show off their skills and cook with a surprise ingredient! The event will take place at the Chattanooga Holiday Market on December 15 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. chattanoogamarket.com/events/
21 Animal Crossing: New Horizons
The holidays will roll into the
New Year with Animal Crossing at the Tennessee Aquarium. From December 21 to February 28, the popular Nintendo game will come to life with character standees and informative posters about the game’s fish and animals throughout the Aquarium’s exhibits. Animal Crossing stamp rallies are planned for January 11 & 12 and February 23 & 24, 2025. tnaqua.org/aquarium-events/ animal-crossing-aquarium-tour/
January
25
Pink! Gala
Celebrating its 20th year, the Pink! Gala is the CHI Memorial Foundation’s signature black-tie event. Alex and Lacy Burd, son and daughter-in-law of MaryEllen Locher, will co-chair the 2025 event at the Chattanooga Convention Center with the theme “20 Years of Impact: MaryEllen Locher’s Legacy.” All proceeds from Pink! stay within the community to support the mission of the MaryEllen Locher Breast Center at CHI Memorial. supportmemorial foundation.org/news#upcoming-events
Gratefull
Februrary
22 Chattanooga Heart Ball
The Heart Ball raises critical funds for the American Heart Association while celebrating the work of this life-saving organization. This event will begin at 5 p.m. at The Chattanoogan Hotel. Attendees can look forward to a social reception, silent and live auction, dinner and engaging program, and live entertainment and dancing. heart.org/chattheartball
March
1-2
Erlanger Chattanooga Marathon Weekend
Join in for the 2025 Erlanger Chattanooga Marathon Weekend! Celebrating its 10th anniversary, this year’s event features an all-new 10K race alongside the full marathon, half marathon, 5K, and kids’ fun run. Runners of all levels will enjoy courses winding through Chattanooga’s riverfront, historic neighborhoods, and rolling hills. With energetic spectators, live music along the route, and an exciting finish at the First Horizon Pavilion, this event will be an unforgettable experience of fun, fitness, and community. chattanoogamarathon.com
12
Possibilities Luncheon
This year, Siskin Hospital’s Possibilities Luncheon will be hosted at the Chattanooga Convention Center, featuring keynote speaker John Register, a Paralympic silver medalist and Desert Storm veteran. This impactful, community-wide fundraiser begins at 11:30 a.m. and celebrates hope and courage in the face of adversity. Proceeds benefit Siskin Hospital’s charity care patients as they discover life beyond disability. siskinrehab.org
Mark Your Calendar!
The Moth Ball® by CityScope® will be returning in 2025 on April 24!
Pull out your prom, bridesmaid, or any old dress, and get ready for a memorable evening of food, fun, and fashions from the past. Every year, The Moth Ball® by CityScope® benefits a different nonprofit in Hamilton County that has a positive impact on the lives of women in our community. The 2025 beneficiary is Welcome Home of Chattanooga. themothball.org
Ask Hamilton
STREET BRIDGE
Dear Hamilton,
The Walnut Street Bridge is one of my favorite spots in Chattanooga. I love taking walks across the bridge all year-round, and its views of the river and the city simply can’t be beat! It’s no doubt a historic structure, but I was wondering if you could tell me more about how this bridge came to be?
Sincerely,
Wondering on the Walking Bridge
Dear Wondering on the Walking Bridge,
I’m glad you asked! The Walnut Street Bridge is an iconic part of
Chattanooga’s landscape and its history, and I share your appreciation for all this site offers. Built over a century ago, the bridge has certainly stood the test of time – but not without a little help along the way.
The Walnut Street Bridge was built by the Smith Bridge Company in 1890, becoming the city’s first non-military bridge. It was designed by architect Edwin Thacher in a style known as Pennsylvania truss, which is characterized by diagonal braces that create a series of triangles, and is a durable design well-suited to support the bridge’s long span. The bridge initially served horse-drawn wagons and pedestrians and was significant in increasing access to the north shore of
the Tennessee River. It would later accommodate motor traffic and connect commuters for decades to come.
In 1978, however, the bridge would close due to safety reasons concerning its structural integrity. It was originally planned to be demolished and replaced, however, a community campaign to preserve the historic bridge and renovate it for pedestrian use soon came to life. This effort was met with widespread support, and a committee was formed to study the bridge’s structural soundness and restoration costs to determine whether preserving the bridge was possible.
Thankfully, they concluded it was. Restoration began in 1991 and two years later, the Walnut Street Bridge
(Below) View of the Walnut Street Bridge and Market Street Bridge at dusk
WALNUT
reopened to foot traffic. At 2,376 feet – that’s nearly half a mile! – the bridge remains one of the longest pedestrian bridges in the world to this day as it connects pedestrians from downtown to the Northshore neighborhood and these areas’ many attractions.
Over the years, the Walnut Street Bridge has been joined by three other bridges near downtown. The Chief John Ross Bridge, commonly known as Market Street Bridge, was completed in 1917 and has also received renovations to keep its historic structure standing strong. Both Market Street Bridge and Walnut Street Bridge are listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and the two have become inseparable features of the riverfront
with their matching blue steel beams. The next, and largest, addition was the P.R. Olgiati Bridge, which was built in 1959 and now routes the eightlane US 27 highway. Lastly, Veterans Memorial Bridge joined this trio in 1984, distinguished by its rows of flying American flags.
Today, the Walnut Street Bridge is the oldest and largest surviving truss bridge in the South. It has seen Chattanooga through many an era and provides front-row seats to rich local history as well as stunning views of the Tennessee River and Chattanooga’s skyline. The bridge is a popular destination for locals and tourists who share your love for this landmark and provides a backdrop
for casual strolls, morning runs, and many special memories.
Make sure to pay the bridge plenty of visits in the coming months, as it will soon be closed to through traffic for a year’s worth of updates and repairs to ensure it stays strong and standing for years to come.
Hope this helps!
Bush Resident History Hound Chattanooga, TN
Hamilton
(Left) Walnut Street Bridge being repaired, 1949
(Top Right) Postcard of Walnut Street Bridge, 1916 (Bottom Right) Walnut Street Bridge under construction, 1889
Serving with Heart
This holiday season and throughout the year, families in the Scenic City are strengthening their communities with humility, one act of kindness at a time. Here, we highlight local families who regularly volunteer together to learn more about their heart for service.
BY GRAY BENNETT
Photo
Finding a Rhythm
WITH THE KRAHA FAMILY
“Children need less direction than one might think. They are eager to help and join in and can spot what needs to be done and do it.”
– Madeline Kraha
For the Krahas, volunteer work isn’t a one-off event or novelty experience. It’s just a regular part of life. Driven by compassion and a curiosity about the innerworkings of their local community, a variety of service opportunities have naturally found them along the way.
In fact, volunteer work played a fated role in Tyler and Madeline’s love story. The pair met while volunteering independently at Crabtree Farms back in 2017. Their early experiences of volunteering together formed a strong foundation for their relationship and, eventually, their growing family.
Volunteer work looks a little different for a family of seven. With the Kraha kids’ ages ranging from 2 to 16, busy school schedules and naptimes keep them on their toes. Tyler Kraha explains that, since a majority of volunteer opportunities aren’t suited for every member of the family, they often break into smaller “Kraha groups” in order to make the most of their volunteer time. Flexibility and keeping an open mind are key.
“Keep trying,” he says to other families searching for volunteer opportunities. “Not every space meets every family, and not every space is meant for you. Sometimes the plan you have in mind changes based on the needs of the person or the organization. It’s important to remember that it’s not always about you and what you want, but about helping out with whatever is needed.”
Nowadays, the Krahas have found a rhythm that works for them – busy schedule and all. The younger kids take on simpler tasks. They may spend a morning watering plants in a community garden space, or there may be an opportunity for them to volunteer some time at their older siblings’ schools. For the older kids, Welcome Home of Chattanooga is a nonprofit where they regularly spend time visiting with people in need of hospice care.
Every service opportunity is all about making a positive impact on the community little by little. While they participate in a wide variety of volunteer opportunities, Tyler Kraha shares that “there is no one instance” when he is most proud of them. “Anytime they choose to give their time, in earnest to another, I’m proud of them,” he says.
Spreading Joy
WITH THE JAMES FAMILY
“Volunteering in general, and participating in theater specifically, teaches you to see that everyone can have something to offer. Trusting others, and being trusted in return, is a strong lesson.”
– Steven James
As a homeschooling family with 10 children, extracurricular activities were unheard of by the James family until they found an organization where their creative expression could flourish.
It all started with a show at Chattanooga Theatre Centre (CTC). The experience, leaving them amazed and impressed, inspired a few of the James kids to step outside of their comfort zone. It was the perfect place for them to start volunteering their time, auditioning, entertaining, and working behind the scenes.
“With so many people in our family, it was not clear from the start that everyone would want to be involved,” Steven and Rebecca James share. “Seeing the joy and sense of belonging that it brought their siblings, it has been surprising to see some of our quieter children take part in performing on stage. We love that they’ve all found different parts of theater that they love and enjoy.”
Today, the James kids have been involved in about 13 shows at CTC since 2019. They enjoy a variety of responsibilities, always ready for a new challenge. From acting, singing, and dancing on stage to behind-the-scenes jobs like stage managing and working lights and sound, everyone works together as a team to make the final show something truly amazing.
Rebecca James explains that, even long before curtain call, life lessons are all around them. “The phrase most commonly associated with theater is ‘the show must go on,’” she says. “Learning to take whatever curveball comes your way and still follow through with the rest of a production is a skill that is universally applicable. Auditioning teaches another great lesson – each one is an opportunity to grow and learn even when you don’t get cast or get the part you wanted.”
Through every show – on and off stage – the James family has a passion for bringing joy to others and creating something bigger than themselves. “The kids have seen their audiences laugh, sob, gasp in shock, or cry tears of delight and joy,” says James. “Knowing that they can have that kind of impact is thrilling, empowering, and humbling!”
Photos by Kristina Armstrong
DRIVING AWARENESS: Kevin Mounce’s Journey from Diagnosis to Advocacy with His Purple Miata
Kevin Mounce has always found fulfillment in living a healthy lifestyle, including exercising multiple times a week and maintaining a healthy weight. That’s why his pancreatic cancer diagnosis came as a shock to both him and his family.
“I woke up one morning and something was a little bit off with my eyes; they had a yellow tint,” said Kevin. Thinking it may have been a case of dehydration, Kevin focused on hydrating and resumed his normal activities. Yet, as the weekend continued, Kevin noticed his skin also turning a yellow hue. “When I saw this, there was no doubt in my mind that something wasn’t right.”
Kevin immediately scheduled a visit with his doctor at Erlanger where he completed lab work and a CAT scan. Until that point, he had not displayed other symptoms that are often associated with pancreatic cancer, including persistent abdominal pain, back pain, unexplained weight loss, and loss of appetite. However, he was officially diagnosed with pancreatic cancer just days after his jaundice appeared.
Dr. Julie Koffron, Medical Director, Pancreas Cancer and Hepatobiliary Services at Erlanger. Following the procedure, Kevin underwent a year of chemotherapy and imaging scans. Pancreatic cancer is normally not terminal if found early; however, the prognosis becomes severe once it has spread throughout the body. Because of this, early detection for pancreatic cancer is vital.
Kevin recently celebrated his third year of being cancer free. He is still monitored by his Erlanger care team as there is a high rate of recurrence with pancreatic cancer.
“The quality of care, compassion and expertise I received at Erlanger is unmatched,” Kevin said.
“For what I had to undergo, Erlanger offered an exceptional experience.”
The first step in his treatment included the placement of a stint to rid his body of jaundice. Because his cancer was detected before it spread, Kevin was eligible for the Whipple surgery—an operation to remove the head of the pancreas, the first part of the small intestine, the gallbladder, and the bile duct. This specialized surgery was performed by
When Kevin learned his cancer was in remission, his family surprised him with a purple Mazda Miata, the color for pancreatic cancer awareness. He not only takes it to different pancreatic cancer events, but he also drives it around town with the intention of raising awareness. “My hope is if one person sees the car, it may spark something in them to get checked or encourage someone they know to be checked. If this can lead to a faster diagnosis, then that’s all that matters.”
For more information about Kevin’s story and the oncology services offered at Erlanger, visit erlanger.org/cancer.
Building Connections
WITH THE WALSH FAMILY
“Don’t be hesitant to get involved. Lots of great organizations are in need of help and support. Find your passion and share it with others.” – Tracy Walsh
A desire for deeper connectedness sparked the Walsh family’s passion for volunteering. It all started with a simple word of encouragement.
In 2014, Dan Walsh was invited to join the board of directors for the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Greater Chattanooga (RMHC). Jane Kaylor, the former CEO, encouraged him to make it a team effort and ask his family to support the organization alongside him. Ready to grow closer as a team in support of a great cause, the Walshes jumped into action.
Ten years later, volunteer work has taught them the importance of empathy and kindness over and over again. Tracy Walsh explains that, while they “don’t have all the answers and can’t take away the problems that families are facing,” the ability to actively listen “with care and understanding” creates a greater sense of connectedness when it matters most.
No matter the situation, Walsh notes that they are “always able to rise to the occasion” together. They cook meals, answer phone calls, set up for festivals and special events, and more. It’s not only given them a heart for their community, but it’s also brought them closer as a family. Each member of the family has volunteered with RMHC in different ways over the years, and it’s their unique skills and abilities coming together that has made them such a strong team.
Walsh explains that volunteering has also taught them to truly value every moment together. “After we cooked our monthly Adopt-A-Meal on the second Friday of the month, when our grandfather lived with us, he would buy dinner for us when we finished cooking,” Walsh shares. “He would say ‘You cook dinner for 60 people, and I will buy for those of you who cooked.’ We have continued that tradition of going out to dinner after he has passed and enjoy that time together after we volunteer.”
At the end of the day, the Walsh family has a true passion for taking care of others and being there for them in their time of need. Volunteer work has opened new doors for connection with their community and strengthened the bonds between them all.
Partners for Life
BY KRISTEN DEE / PHOTOGRAPHY BY HACKER MEDIAS
Partner dancing requires constant communication, trust, and commitment, the same foundations that often build a strong relationship. Here, we talk to six local dancing couples who have discovered how to be a great partner, both on and off the dance floor.
Brian and Meg McSween
Prior to hanging up their performance pointe shoes, Brian and Meg McSween both had successful careers as professional ballet dancers, with many accomplishments and accolades. “Both of us had professional careers that were over a decade long and allowed us the opportunity to perform in renowned venues such as Lincoln Center, The Kennedy Center, and the Hollywood Bowl,” they share. “Meg performed leading roles in ballets by the world’s top choreographers, and Brian is in the film ‘The Company.’”
After meeting at a bible study, getting married, and dancing together for almost 22 years, they have many special dance memories, including their last dance together. “When Brian first started choreographing, he created a pas de deux (step for two) for us,” Meg shares. “We had been working on it for a while and were about three days from the performance when we found out we were three months pregnant with our first child. The dance became a pas de trois (step for three), and also marked the last time we shared the stage.”
As they both continued to pursue dance careers while raising a family, the travel and relocations became a challenge. When the opportunity came up to plant roots in a city while still pursuing dance, they knew it was the right choice. “Before Brian got the job with Chattanooga Ballet, we talked about finding a place where we could invest long term, provide stability for our family, and know that we were moving in the direction we were called,” they say. “CHA Ballet and the surrounding community have provided that for our family.” Brian is currently the CEO/ Artistic Director of CHA Ballet, and Megan teaches the company artists and students in the CHA Ballet school and is a GYROTONIC® Method trainer at the CHA Ballet Annex.
Now settled in the Scenic City’s dance scene, the two can take a step back and enjoy their shared passion. “We have the shared goal of providing inspiration and joy to the audience and glory to God. We are both dedicated to our craft and have provided encouragement when the profession has been hard. We enjoy the expression, creativity, musicality, endless possibilities, inspiration, and knowing that you are designed and created to do something and you get to do it with the love of your life.”
“We enjoy the expression, creativity, musicality, endless possibilities, inspiration, and knowing that you are designed and created to do something and you get to do it with the love of your life.”
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Jesse and Ally Ramos
While shopping at a doggy bakery, Jesse Ramos found more than just biscuits for his Siberian Husky. He also found his future wife and dance partner, Ally. Ally’s mom, who worked at the doggy bakery, promised she would bring her daughter to Jesse’s dance lessons. After following through on that promise, the rest is history. “To this day, my mother-in-law takes full credit for picking me as her future son-in-law,” Jesse laughs. The two are now happily married and have been dancing together for 15 years.
The Ramoses own a local dance studio, G2G Salsa, where they teach and practice salsa, bachata, and the cha-cha. They are proud of their contributions to the Scenic City dance scene, saying, “Our greatest accomplishment has been the growth of the local Latin dance scene. We’ve fostered an environment where people feel comfortable being their authentic selves. While it can sometimes be exhausting juggling full-time jobs along with running the studio, hearing our students’ stories about how dance has positively impacted their lives and relationships makes the long days worth it.”
Although the two own and run the studio, dancing isn’t just a job for them but a shared passion and a way to stay connected. “As our relationship has grown, so has our dancing,” they share. “Dance is all about communication, learning, practicing, and fun. These same elements have brought us closer and helped us grow into the partnership we have today. In the end, we have found that we are so much better at communicating and problem-solving when we work together and consider each other’s ideas and suggestions.”
The two enjoy building their own relationship while also connecting with others in a way that wouldn’t be possible without dance. “What we enjoy most is the social aspect. Over the years we’ve met so many people from different backgrounds, cultures, and ethnicities – connections we likely wouldn’t have made without dance,” they say. The two believe Chattanooga has a great dance community, saying, “Chattanooga is a fantastic city for dancers because of its friendly and welcoming community. Whether you’re interested in salsa, bachata, ballroom, or west coast swing, there are fun groups to help you get started.”
“As our relationship has grown, so has our dancing ... In the end, we have found that we are so much better at communicating and problemsolving when we work together and consider each other’s ideas and suggestions.”
CHI Memorial Hospital is the leader in quality healthcare and patient experience in our region. Through the Invest in the Best comprehensive capital campaign, new technologies and specialized care growth will allow the hospital to build on those strengths and impact patient care for years to come. Your gift to one of the five campaign areas will impact hundreds of thousands of people - your family, friends, and neighbors.
Joel Thomas and Leeza Fedorenko
After meeting at a Christmas social at local studio Dance Tonight, Joel Thomas and Leeza Fedorenko immediately hit it off, and they have now been dancing through life together for two and half years. The two will take any opportunity to dance together, whether it’s an impromptu dance in the middle of eating chicken wings at a bar in Knoxville on Valentine’s Day or performing a routine to Ed Sheeran’s “Shivers” in front of a big crowd. “Partnership dancing allows every couple an opportunity to gain a closer connection through physical touch and communication,” says Thomas. “At any time I can take Leeza into my arms and spin her around the kitchen, or dip her when we’re in public, always bringing laughter and joy to our relationship.”
Thomas and Fedorenko have both been practicing dance for many years, with Thomas practicing ballroom, Latin, swing, and partner-focused dancing and Fedorenko practicing ballroom, ballet, tap, and jazz dancing. They are also both dance instructors locally, and they appreciate the opportunity to share their passion with others.
“Dancing allows you to connect to people in such a special way. It allows you to express all types of emotions, feelings, and tell stories,” says Fedorenko. Thomas agrees, sharing, “I enjoy the different types of music, the athleticism, the storytelling of each style of dance, the creativity, and the connection to people. I enjoy sharing the gift of dance with my clients and watching them grow in their own journey.”
While they enjoy teaching and helping others on their dance journeys, they often get the most out of dancing together. “I love dancing with Leeza because she brings such a vibrant energy to the dance floor. She is fun, playful, and captivating, making every performance we do electrifying,” says Thomas. For Fedorenko, she is proud of how their love comes through when they dance together, saying “We don’t have to pretend to be in love when we’re dancing. We are in love, and it’s evident on the dance floor.”
“We
don’t have to pretend to be in love when we’re dancing. We are in love, and it’s evident on the dance floor.”
Wendy Carson and Travis Donley
Wendy Carson and Travis Donley use dance as an opportunity to keep learning and growing, in their relationship and in their dancing. “We love that dance is a never-ending endeavor,” they say. “You can never say ‘I’m done, I’ve learned everything.’ There’s enjoyment in figuring out a new dance style or variations. We love the challenge of adapting our movements to create something truly enjoyable together. Dancing with each other has taught us patience and graciousness while giving us a shared passion.”
The two believe that dance is a “reflection of your relationship,” and that the practice is all about partnership and communication. “Dancing with someone is always a few minutes of connection, but dancing with someone consistently is a long-term conversation of ups and downs, mistakes and successes, and voiceless speaking. We enjoy the euphoric feeling that dance brings, and the fact that we can share it with each other,” they say.
After dancing together for 16 years, the two have many special dance memories to look back on, but their most memorable was an Art Deco dance trip in 2022. They share, “We dressed in 1920s and ‘30s clothing and went on a twoand-a-half week trip to England. We came back on the Queen Mary 2, a beautiful reproduction of 1920s luxury sailing. We had a ball every night with a different theme and a live orchestra. It was amazing and we look forward to doing it again in 2025!”
Carson and Donley founded the Chattanooga Vintage Dancers in 2015, and have since taught hundreds of people various decades of dances, and celebrated the fashions, customs, and dance styles of the past. The organization hosts weekly classes at their studio and puts on several large dance events each year around Chattanooga, with dancers encouraged to find new partners and try something new. “We want to encourage everyone to check out some form of dancing,” they say. “Dancing is for everyone – you simply have to find out what speaks to you!”
“Dancing with someone is always a few minutes of connection, but dancing with someone consistently is a long-term conversation of ups and downs, mistakes and successes, and voiceless speaking.”
Margie Tuttle-Innecco and
Diego Innecco
Many couples are nervous about doing the first dance at their wedding and go to great lengths to take lessons, practice, and prepare. For Margie Tuttle-Innecco and Diego Innecco, they felt it would be best to wing it. With Margie as a dance instructor and Diego as her student, they’d been practicing west coast swing dances together and felt confident in their abilities. “We didn’t want to choreograph it,” they share. “It was completely improv and so special.” The dance turned out perfect, and is now a very special memory for the couple and their wedding guests.
This confidence in their dancing was a reflection of Diego’s growing love for dance, thanks to his talented instructor and now wife. “Diego has gotten out of his comfort zone. He has learned to dance, plus competed twice, and has definitely been feeling more comfortable dancing. He’s enjoying learning, coming to classes, and even assisting me in teaching,” Margie shares. Diego agrees, saying “I enjoy being able to create my own style on the dance floor, and most importantly get out of my comfort zone.”
While Diego is a newer dancer, Margie has been dancing her whole life, winning many competitions and becoming a champion-level dancer. With Diego as her new partner and student, the two enjoy the fun and challenge of dancing together, saying, “We enjoy dancing because it brings us together. It has challenged us in different ways by learning how to communicate in a teacher and student way, not just a married couple way. So, we’re constantly working on communication and learning about each other.”
As they continue to grow their partnership on and off the dance floor, they are enjoying the local dance scene. Margie offers public and private lessons at the Chattanooga Westies, a west coast swing dance club that hosts regular lessons and travels to compete. “The west coast swing community in Chattanooga is small, but everyone is super friendly and so close,” says Margie. “I enjoy being able to connect with different dancers as a teacher. I’m truly grateful to be a part of people’s dance journeys and help them learn and progress.”
“We enjoy dancing because it brings us together ... we’re constantly working on communication and learning about each other.”
Lenny and Jackie Seasonwein
For dance teacher Lenny Seasonwein, and his wife, Jackie, dance has been a constant thread throughout their relationship. “We met at a weekly dance hall named Kismet, (a Middle Eastern word that means ‘destiny’) so you could say our joining was meant to be,” recalls Lenny. “Two months later, our first date was at a dance venue, where we later decided to hold our wedding. Dancing has played a rather large part in our connection!”
Now 18 years into marriage, the two dance, teach, and even perform together, practicing ballroom, Latin, hustle, and swing style dancing. “Dance has brought us closer,” Jackie says. “We tune into each other and communicate with movement and expressions. We enjoy moving together and the communication of leader and follower. Plus, you can flirt a bit and have fun.” Lenny enjoys dancing with Jackie, as they are “physically and musically in sync with one another.”
In addition to deepening their own connection, the Seasonweins also believe that dance is a great place to find community. “Dancing is a wonderful social event where you can meet people to enjoy their company. We’ve made a lot of friends through dancing. Dancers tend to be fun people who are interesting and make great friends,” Jackie says. Lenny agrees, saying that Chattanooga is a great city for dancers as there are many dance opportunities every night of the week for various styles and preferences. Together they teach various styles of dance lessons on Tuesday nights, with Lenny leading and Jackie helping the students. Whether it’s the couples they teach or their own relationship, the Seasonweins focus on how to “dance better together,” a goal that has strengthened their relationship and brought them and their students plenty of joy along the way.
Ultimately, Lenny sees the practice as self-expression. “Dancing is a great and magical way to express yourself,” he says. “After learning the steps, the next phase is applying your own personality to the steps –and expressing what the music makes you feel. In effect, you make the steps all your own.”
“Dancing is a great and magical way to express yourself.”
COMING SOON !
Recognizing The Greater Chattanooga Area’s Top Doctors Across 50+ Specialties
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
• Doctors are nominated solely by their peers.
• Peer nominations are completely confidential.
• Nominations are conducted and reviewed by Castle Connolly – a national physician-led team of researchers.
• Nominated doctors will be reviewed by a local advisory board.
• Results will be published in HealthScope® Magazine Top Doctors publishing July 2025.
• Top Doctors will be shown on HealthScope®’s website as well as on Castle Connolly’s nationally recognized website.
Emblems will be provided to Top Doctors for use in their marketing materials.
Into the Unknown
Photo Courtesy of Chris Beckstrand
Adventure, curiosity, exploration. These are just a few of the biggest thrills that await cavers as they begin their journey underground. While many might balk at the idea of enclosed spaces or traveling in the pitch-black, this only spurs cavers on. With a desire to illuminate the unknown, and to go where few have been before, these six local cavers are taking advantage of the many caves this region has to offer. Read on to learn how they got into caving, their most memorable caving stories, and more.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY VITYL MEDIA
CHRIS BECKSTRAND
How and when did you get into caving?
My first real experiences in caving were in the mountains and deserts of Utah during high school. My first legitimate caving experience was to the infamous Nutty Putty cave, and my group of friends and I would frequently visit the system. It wasn’t until I moved to Tennessee in 2011 that I realized how many caves there are for us to explore. I had no idea what real caving was about until I moved to Tennessee.
Are you able to share your love of caving with anyone?
I share my love of caving with my friends, Rob Cuthbertson and Devan Griner. Our group is also known as the Crystal Brooke Grotto. The three of us, from about 2016 to 2018, probably went on 50 different trips together.
Tell us about your most memorable caving trip.
I love every single trip and cave we have done together. It is hard to choose a favorite. One of my favorite trips though was our very first time finding the entrance to Ellison’s Cave. With
the caving community being so tightlipped about cave locations (something I have grown to respect), we had to explore for ourselves. Once we found it, we didn’t really come prepared to explore the cave, but the temptation was too strong. With nothing but cell phone lights, we made it all the way to the warmup pit and back. Not very smart, and definitely not recommended, but quite memorable.
What is your favorite thing about caving?
Caving to me is the ultimate form of exploration. Everything about it is
unknown. Around every corner could be a place where light has never shined. It is the ultimate combination of physical exertion, controlled danger, unexpected surprises, discovery, and beauty.
What is your proudest cavingrelated accomplishment?
Not dying the first time we descended Fantastic Pit in Ellison’s Cave. Devan rigged the first rappel and checked the knots for 20 minutes to make sure he had it right. After he offloaded his weight from the ledge onto the rope, it was a giant step for the Crystal Brooke Grotto.
ERIC ASHBURN
How and when did you get into caving?
My father was the national training coordinator for the National Cave Rescue Commission. As he taught classes for them and other rescue organizations, he would often take me with him.
What’s your funniest caving story?
I took a film crew on a trip for their TV show. They really wanted to spend the night in the cave. So, me and the other guides got them set up in hammocks hanging from the ceiling. One of the hosts was a good candidate for a CPAP. A few hours into our slumber, I woke up to some other young cavers making their way through the passages. We quietly hung in our hammocks and just listened to them. For a moment, they stopped talking, and one of them heard the rhythmic night sounds of our host. These boys were posi -
tive that they had just come across a slumbering bear. They ran out of that cave with such fear you couldn’t help but giggle.
What makes Chattanooga and the surrounding area a great spot for caving?
The limestone that covers most of the area makes for lots of caving. Because there are so many caves in the area, many of the best cavers find their way here. That builds an amazing community for support and friendship with people who share a similar passion.
Do you have any advice for those looking to get into caving?
Attend a grotto meeting. Grottos are groups of cavers that share their knowledge and experience. They can help you get the gear, find the caves, and most importantly, learn the sport in a safe way. They also really help teach good etiquette to keep the environment pristine for others generations. In the Chattanooga area, the Chattanooga Grotto meets at Outdoor Chattanooga on Monday nights at 7 p.m. All are welcome. The Pigeon Mountain Grotto that meets in Northwest Georgia is another great organization.
HANNAH ANDREWS
How and when did you get into caving?
I got into caving in 2018 when I started working as a tour guide at Ruby Falls. I loved sharing not only the history of Ruby Falls but also the science behind the cave and its formations. During my time there, I made many wonderful friends, one of whom was Drew Thackston. He invited me on my first cave expedition to Animal Farm Cave located near Monteagle, and I’ve been hooked on caving ever since!
Tell us about your most memorable caving trip.
It was my first trip to Tumbling Rock in Alabama. About a mile into the cave, we could hear faint rumbling in the distance. As we got closer, the faint rumbling got louder and louder. Finally, we approached a small 6- to 7-foot-tall waterfall coming out of a hole in the ceiling. Past spelunkers had stacked large rocks underneath the waterfall, making it easier to lift yourself up into the hole. After getting up through the hole, I was greeted with a large, beautiful waterfall. The area we were in was known as the Topless Dome, home of the
400-foot-tall King’s Shower waterfall. It was breathtaking; when you looked up, it was as if the water droplets were moving in slow motion as they fell, as it took what seemed like forever to reach the bottom.
Have you been able to share your love of caving with anyone?
I’m part of two grottos: an all-girls grotto and Pigeon Mountain Grotto. My partner, Justice, and I have been caving ever since we first visited Animal Farm six years ago. I have introduced caving to quite a few friends over the years, and anyone who knows me knows how much I love caves.
What do you wish people knew about caving?
Caves are the reason why I got a bachelor’s degree in environmental geology at UTC. When people think about pollution, a lot of people might only think about the how the ecosystems on the surface are affected. Pollution can also impact the fragile ecosystem of a cave through contamination of groundwater and irresponsible caving practices. When you go caving, it is important to only take pictures and leave nothing but footprints.
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DAVID DEHART
How and when did you get into caving?
I went caving a couple times in the Boy Scouts and some commercial caves growing up. I really started caving in 1993. Some friends next door to the place I worked in Atlanta at the time asked me if I wanted to join them on a caving and camping weekend in Tennessee. I was excited to go. We caved both Saturday and Sunday in this nice, long wet cave that had an upper horizontal entrance and a vertical entrance. I just did the horizontal trip. It wasn’t until a few cavers came out with ropes hanging off of them that I found out about the vertical caving. This piqued my interest even further. We went again two weeks later, and I was hooked!
What’s your favorite thing about caving?
Challenging myself and going places that only a very small percentage of the population will ever go or even know about.
What’s your funniest caving story?
Teaching my friend to always look where they are about to land when rappelling. She always had a hard time with that, and I kept telling her she was going to get hurt one day.
She never seemed to listen. So, I had the opportunity to really teach her a harmless lesson. I went down a pit first and discovered at the bottom, right where you would land, a dead possum. I kicked off the wall, landed, looked around, and very carefully got back on rope and climbed out. When I reached the top, I told her to go next and that it was a beautiful pit and she would love it. She got on rope and started down. I started laughing because I knew what would happen.
My friends were asking me what I was laughing about, and I said, “Y’all will hear in just a minute.” Sure enough, she started yelling things at me. But, to this day, she always stops and looks down to check her landing zone now.
What are your go-to essentials for a caving trip?
Extra batteries for my lights, my phone, and extra light for photography. Also, a balaclava, protein bar, and fluids for hydration.
BUDDY LANE
How and when did you get into caving?
In December 1969, I had a friend in school that had just joined the Chattanooga Grotto of the National Speleological Society (NSS). I attended my first meeting in January 1970 and joined the Grotto and the NSS that same month. Later that month, I went on my first caving trip, which was led by longtime Grotto member Don Black. Black was one of the early members of the NSS. After that, I knew I was hooked, and it was my life calling.
What makes Chattanooga and the surrounding area a great spot for caving?
It’s a hot bed of caving because it is located in a heavily deposited limestone area. Within an hour and a half of Chattanooga, there are over 10,000 caves. Some of the deepest pits in America are located nearby Chattanooga.
What’s your funniest caving story?
Back in the days before GPS was invented, we would search for caves using Topo maps and points that were not always located correctly. Sometimes it became more work to find the cave than to explore the cave.
What’s your proudest cavingrelated accomplishment?
Being able to help build a cave rescue team for the area that has accomplished saving many lives of cavers and others in distressing situations. Being part of the early development of the Southeastern Cave Conservancy, Inc., and having seen the organization grow from ownership of one cave to owning and managing over 180 on 38 preserves in seven states.
What’s your favorite thing about caving?
It’s one of a few places you can make a discovery and be the first person to ever have been there. There’s a calming
solitude about being inside the Earth, not knowing about anything that’s going on outside.
Do you have any advice for those looking to get into caving?
If you’re interested in learning to explore caves, the best way to start is attending Grotto meetings of the National Speleological Society (NSS). Chattanooga Grotto of the NSS meets the first Monday of each month at The Chattanooga Outdoor Center and is an excellent place to meet people and learn caving techniques.
MIKE HILLS
How and when did you get into caving?
As a kid, armed with a handheld flashlight, some string, and no helmet, I started spelunking in Knoxville, Tennessee. Any mud hole in the ground I could find along the Tennessee River, I explored. As the saying goes among cavers … “Cavers rescue spelunkers.” I was extremely lucky enough to never require rescue, though one particular cave required us to find our way out using only the light from my watch.
It was not long that I was reformed of my spelunking ways after bumping into several actual cavers in some of the same caves that I was exploring. I was introduced to safe techniques, like the importance of multiple light sources, helmets, and the real advantage to joining a local grotto or caving club.
What’s your funniest caving story?
I like to put rocks in people’s cave packs when they’re not looking. Always seems funny at first, but somehow, they tend to get back at me in ways that probably should not go into print.
What’s your proudest cavingrelated accomplishment?
That would be my time with the Chattanooga Hamilton County Rescue Service’s cave/cliff rescue team, being a member of a highly-trained,
high-functioning, and professional organization of rescuers. This team does some of the most difficult technical rescues imaginable, and yet they see very little press or acknowledgment from the outside world. You literally have to see it to believe it. It is those times working with other professionals in tight spaces, dangerous heights, or frigid water conditions, knowing that it may be hours or a day or two before you even see the sunlight, but your number one priority is the patient.
What’s your favorite thing about caving?
My current favorite thing about caving is sharing it with my kids and their friends. The underground world is unlike anything above ground. Over the years, however, I might have said I enjoyed caving because I was part of a community of cavers who shared adventure together. Within the world of rescue, we did extremely difficult things, amazing things, that no other person will ever see unless you are willing to work hard and have the physical capacity to be able to achieve it.
Scenic City Scientists
From analyzing chemical compositions to conserving natural environments and forecasting weather, a career in science can take many forms. Yet all involve the continual pursuit of knowledge, driven by curiosity and a passion for the research at hand. Here, we spotlight six scientists from different fields whose expertise is helping improve places, products, and more in our city.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY RICH SMITH
WILL TERNES
ZOOKEEPER, CHATTANOOGA ZOO
What sparked your interest in zoology? It began when I learned about the ecosystems within the Appalachian Mountains. I was unaware of how richly diverse and layered they are. From that point, I’ve been interested in better understanding the risks that Appalachian amphibians face and how they can overcome them.
Tell us about your current position. I am a full-time herpetology keeper at Chattanooga Zoo, meaning I’m responsible for the feeding, medication, and overall care of the Zoo’s reptiles and amphibians. I also care for the salamanders that are part of our Hellbender Headstart program. Hellbenders are a threatened species of salamander that live in cold, fast-moving streams in the Appalachian mountain region. At the Zoo, we collaborate with Dr. Michael Freake from Lee University and the United States Forest Service to assist struggling hellbender populations. We do this by removing healthy hellbender eggs from the wild, raising them in our care, and releasing them when they turn 2 or 3. This helps hellbenders because they experience a very high mortality rate from ages 0-2. If we raise them up at Chattanooga Zoo, while also preparing them for what they will experience in the wild, we can help populations of hellbenders increase to stable numbers.
What’s a fun or interesting zoology fact? Adult male hellbenders actually perform a decent amount of parental care for babies. Once a female hellbender deposits her eggs under a large, flat rock, the male will fertilize the eggs and then aggressively defend them until they hatch. The father even uses his tail to circulate the water under the rock, so the eggs are receiving plenty of oxygen.
What do you love most about zoology? Getting out into the wilderness and performing field work! This is particularly gratifying when we are releasing the hellbender babies back into the wild.
What are some developments you’ve seen in your field since you first entered it? A relatively new method that we use to assist in conservation is environmental DNA (eDNA). This is a useful way to find evidence that an animal is in an environment without physically observing any individuals. It is particularly useful when studying a cryptic species like the hellbender, who goes out of their way to avoid being seen.
What’s your favorite part of your job?
The conservation aspect of working at a zoo is my favorite part. Not just the process of raising baby hellbenders but also outreach to guests and the general public. It is very rewarding when a guest tells you that they’ve learned something new about the ecosystems in their own backyard.
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BRENDA BRIDGES
DR. ANNA GEORGE
VICE PRESIDENT OF CONSERVATION SCIENCE AND EDUCATION, TENNESSEE AQUARIUM
What sparked your interest in biology? I have always been obsessed with animals. It wasn’t until college, however, that I started learning about how many different fishes live in freshwater, and in particular, the rivers and streams of the southeastern United States. Once I knew how many animals there were in waters right in my backyard, I became passionate about studying and protecting these beautiful freshwater habitats.
Tell us about your current position. I oversee our conservation science programs, which include raising endangered species like lake sturgeon for release back into the wild, or working with landowners on habitat restoration projects to protect water quality. On the education side, we reach students through field trips, outreach programs, and summer camp, as well as connecting with Aquarium visitors in our beautiful exhibits to make sure they get to learn a little more about each animal.
What’s a fun or interesting biology fact? Fish build nests! The spring is breeding season, so many male fish start finding ways to attract the ladies. This often includes developing bright breeding colors, so male minnows and darters develop gorgeous stripes, bars, and spots in every color of the rainbow. In addition, some male fish build nests to show off what good parents they’d be. It’s really quite exciting to watch this underwater with a snorkel mask and realize that a nature documentary is happening right outside your front door!
What’s your favorite part of your job? Through the Aquarium’s exhibits, we get to tell stories from the southeastern United States to our 750,000 visitors a year. While many of our guests come here for the sharks or penguins (which are great reasons!), they end up learning just how special their own backyard is. We call this region an underwater rainforest because of all the different animals we have swimming through our rivers and streams. I love that we get the chance to inspire this sense of pride in our own natural heritage.
What are some challenges that come with the job? Maintaining your sense of hope and not giving up on the chance to turn things around, even when we see some pretty distressing scenes of environmental loss.
Do you have any memorable stories you’d like to share? Our favorite days are those when we get to release an animal back into the wild. Whether it’s watching a six-inch lake sturgeon swim away, knowing that it can grow into an eightfoot long, 100-year old river giant, or hiking up a crystal-clear mountain stream to release Southern Appalachian brook trout into plunge pools, those are the moments when we know we’ve made a difference.
DR. AMY BROCK-HON
PROFESSOR OF GEOLOGY, UNIVERSITY OF TENNESSEE AT CHATTANOOGA (UTC)
What sparked your interest in geology? My PaPa was a rock collector, and I was fascinated by all the cool looking rocks and fossils and where he collected them from. I was fortunate to have parents who stressed the importance of education and supported me in whatever direction I wanted to go. I went to a couple of science summer camps in high school, two of which included weeks of activities in geology and environmental science. I was hooked and have been studying the Earth since.
Tell us about your current position. I am a professor of geology at UTC, where I teach undergraduate classes in geology at all levels. For my research, I investigate landscape dynamics over the past approximately 5 million years. I investigate the development of soils and soil features to understand how landscapes have changed over time and how they may be influenced by shifts in climate. During winter breaks, I’m able to get out to some of my field sites and take students with me. My current position allows me to pursue both my passion for satisfying my own curiosity through scientific investigation and sparking curiosity about our world in my students.
What’s a fun or interesting geology fact? Earth’s history is preserved in its rocks and minerals. This may not sound like a big deal, but to understand the future and make good decisions, we must understand the past. The record of our past can be realized through everything from the intricacies of crystal arrangements in a rock on Earth to analyzing the rocks and minerals that occur on Mars and everything in between. That’s what geologists do. We analyze data we collect from the Earth to understand how we as humans interact with it, change it, use it, and preserve it for the future.
What’s your favorite part of your job? I love the discovery of new knowledge and the process of satisfying the curiosity I have about how the Earth works or why a specific feature is where it is, or how we can make things better for humans who are impacted by the natural aspects of our world. Because I’m an educator, one of my favorite things is to introduce students to geology and help them to understand the world around them.
What advice would you give to someone interested in pursuing a career in geology? Look up and around and ask questions about what you see. Develop your observation skills and remain curious about the world around you. Never lose that curiosity because that is what sparks ideas and identifies problems that others might not see.
Growing Your Business
Your Return on Investment
ELIOT BERZ
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, TENNESSEE RIVER GORGE TRUST
What sparked your interest in environmental science? My interest in environmental science was initially sparked by outdoor recreation and a family that encouraged outdoor exploration. I quickly developed a deep interest in the wild landscapes I was exploring. However, it wasn’t until I attended college that I was exposed to conservation and environmental science as a field of work. Through field positions and graduate school, I then began to specialize in ornithology and conservationbased land management.
Tell us about your current position. My position includes a wide range of duties from management and fundraising to working in the field with our amazing team. Our organization works on the ground to conserve wild lands, conduct meaningful research, implement science-driven forest restoration, and provide sustainable community access to the Tennessee River Gorge.
What does a day on the job look like? A day on the job varies by week and by season. One day we may be working at a remote site deep in the gorge capturing and tagging migratory birds and another in the office writing grants or creating forest management plans.
What’s a fun or interesting environmental science fact? Many of the birds we encounter in the Chattanooga area are migrants that only spend portions of the year here. The rest of the year, they can be found as far away as South America or northern Canada. Over the course of just one October night, over 8 million birds may fly over Hamilton County as part of their annual migration. These flocks of migrating birds can be so dense that they are picked up by the Doppler radar.
What are some challenges that come with the job? One challenge is not getting discouraged. We are working in a world fraught with rampant environmental degradation. It is critical to realize that we are all playing a small role in a large, collective effort. Rather than any individual initiative, meaningful change is driven by the sum of all of the important conservation and research efforts combined.
What are some developments you’ve seen in your field since you first entered it? The miniaturization of tracking technology for migratory wildlife has been astounding. Thanks to technological innovations, we can track the smallest of bird species. With new radio tracking technology, entomologists can even track the movements of insects.
What do you love most about environmental science? The more you learn about a species or ecological community, the more you realize you have only scratched the surface. Every new piece of knowledge opens a new door, each one just as fascinating as the other.
JARED FREEMAN
ANALYTICAL CHEMIST, MCKEE FOODS
What sparked your interest in chemistry? I’ve always enjoyed science, but I grew to enjoy chemistry during my senior year of high school when I had the opportunity to dual enroll in general chemistry. While working on my Bachelor of Science in Chemistry at Southern Adventist University, I had the opportunity to intern in the chemistry lab here at McKee. I had never envisioned myself working in food chemistry, but I’ve enjoyed it.
Tell us about your current position. As an analytical chemist at McKee, my role is quite diverse. The foundations of my position are operating chemical instrumentation of various kinds. The analytical lab provides the hard data to support ongoing product development, specifications, nutrition testing, and troubleshooting testing needed by the company.
What does a day on the job look like? Every day is unique! The testing requested by various parts of the organization is unpredictable, so there are always new challenges and new samples to work with. This week I have performed compositional analysis, rheological testing, process instrumentation method development, sensory testing (tasting), and data analytics for each of those. I work with teams from across all McKee locations to solve problems and utilize my chemistry background to grow our understanding of our food systems and products.
What’s a fun or interesting chemistry fact? The amount of rain a wheat field receives in the summer can impact the customer’s eating experience when that wheat is milled into flour and baked in a product!
What do you love most about chemistry? I love that as analytical chemists, we get to unravel the secrets of each sample’s composition. The specific components present in each sample offer insights into how that sample performs and tastes in the real world! By developing new ways to test for those components, we get to understand how food systems work.
What’s your favorite part of your job? The endless pursuit of knowledge. Being able to solve problems through chemical testing and further our understanding of our products is incredibly fulfilling.
What advice would you give to someone interested in pursuing a career in chemistry? My biggest advice would be to focus on understanding the fundamentals. In the workplace, the application of those fundamental principles will vary, but ultimately all of our chemical testing is based off the fundamental principles of chemistry. Practically, I would recommend seeking out real life learning experiences like internships, research projects, etc. It is so valuable to practice putting the fundamental principles to work in a variety of work settings.
by
Photo
Kevin Spicer
BILL RACE
SENIOR METEOROLOGIST, NEWSCHANNEL 9
What sparked your interest in meteorology? When I was young, I admired that the first people who knew schools would be closed were the meteorologists! I wanted to be in the know. Ironically, I didn’t realize then that when it snowed and children have the day off, the meteorologists still had to work.
Tell us about your current position. Currently I serve as the senior meteorologist at NewsChannel 9. For over 20 years you could find me daily on Good Morning Chattanooga, however, now you can find me on Good Morning Chattanooga Weekends, the evening broadcasts on the weekends, and filling in during the week when needed.
What does a day on the job look like? My day begins very early, around 4:00 a.m. I review the weather models, record forecasts for the radio, and begin putting together the graphics for the broadcasts for the day. I always read through my push alerts to see what is happening in the world of news so I can stay up-to-date and informed. I forecast the news for the viewers and when the shows are completed, I begin recording the teases for the day to let the community know what is coming up later. Social media plays a big part in my day. I enjoy keeping my audience and friends updated and I enjoy staying connected to the community. I feel the community is part of my family, and hopefully they feel the same.
What are some developments you’ve seen in your field since you first entered it? How tornadoes can be detected by radar now is much better than it was 30 years ago. We’re able to give warnings farther in advance, instead of waiting for someone to actually see and report one. The ability to warn people ahead of time in severe weather situations has been, I think, the most important thing that has happened as far as saving lives is concerned.
What’s your proudest accomplishment in this field?
Obtaining the AMS Seal of Approval. You would send in three weathercasts and the AMS board would grade those. If you made a certain grade, you were awarded the seal, which you could then place next to your name on television. Back then, that was the big thing to get. I vividly remember getting it in the mail, that I had succeeded. That was a great day.
What do you love most about meteorology? The challenge of getting a forecast right. But mostly to be sure the public is safe from severe weather.
On November 2, the Kidney Foundation hosted the 17th annual Dare to Dance featuring local celebrities paired with professional dancing instructors at the Chattanooga Convention Center. All proceeds from the evening went to support the Kidney Foundation of Greater Chattanooga, a local organization dedicated to providing education and services to those with kidney disease.
BY MICHAEL HAMPTON
PHOTOS
Keyna Haulbrook, Lori Henry, Dawn Hammonds, and Amber Price
Ryan & Lilly Sellers and Shelby Gordon
Lynda Minks Hood, Gina Dhanani, and Allison Gadd
Aeyonna Thomas and Joel Thomas
Amanda & Tracy Newton
Erin Sizemore and Casey HaywoodGrand Champions of Dare to Dance 2024
Clevis & Nicholle Lofties and Lisa & Thomas Williams
Will & Julie Van de Kamp, Ashley Schexnaildre, and Emily Burdette
Whether through tiny details or major renovations, one of the joys of design is creating a space that feels like home. For Lauren and Blake England, home design has been both a lifeline and an opportunity for self-expression that perfectly accommodates their family. With a high-spirited toddler, Rosie, and a friendly giant golden retriever, Ted, the Englands have found a way to marry beauty with practicality.
Lauren and Blake spent several years traveling and living out-of-state before deciding to make their return to the Southeast. “We found and purchased our first home in August of 2020, coincidentally the same month we got married,” Lauren shares. They were drawn to the walkability of the neighborhood and its centrality within Chattanooga. The Englands are self-identifying homebodies, and they knew they wanted their home to reflect a cozy, welcoming lifestyle. “We just really enjoy simple things and slow living. I want people to walk into our home and immediately feel comfortable,” Lauren says.
With a new build, there were plenty of opportunities for the pair to impress their personal flourishes upon the house. “We started doing projects pretty much immediately upon moving in,” she adds. “It was such a fun outlet to have in the middle of the pandemic and has continued to stimulate my creativity ever since.”
Lauren, Rosemary, and Blake England
One area Lauren wanted to elevate is the entryway, where guests are greeted with a decorative and functional sideboard vignette. Here, woven baskets and hooks along the wall perimeter offer stylish storage options. “Now that we have a 2-year-old, function in design has become even more important,” Lauren says. “I’ve been intentional about finding creative ways to organize and hide clutter.” They also opted to add beadboard wainscoting to the entryway, creating a richly textured backdrop that extends into the main area of the living room.
Mindful décor is a motif throughout the home, including multi-modal furniture that can accommodate the many needs of a young family. “Lauren is really good at making spaces functional like that, and you would never notice,” Blake says. For example, Lauren worked with her father to upcycle the bookcase in the hall, and the green velvet drapes are an elegant touch to draw the eye away from any clutter. In the living area, the sleek mid-century modern coffee table also has cleverly concealed storage compartments. These creative solutions help keep a busy house in order without sacrificing aesthetic preferences for minimalism and clean lines.
Even Rosie’s play area by the hearth has a touch of Lauren’s decorative hand. “Rosie’s tent is the perfect place to keep all of her toys when she’s not using them,” Lauren says. “It’s also where she makes us tea and reads her books.” Rosie’s set is complete with a thrifted miniature rocking chair and a table and chairs that were Lauren’s when she was a child, making tea time all the more special.
Lauren tends toward a breezy and serene Scandinavian style – “clean lines, organic materials, and textures.” From plush textiles and bamboo shades to stone and ceramic décor, each material layers a sense of character to the space. With this cohesive design, the main living areas are drawn together seamlessly. “Since our home is open concept, everything happens in that one big space. We love dance parties and baking things on the weekends – I’ll be in the kitchen while Rosie and Blake are playing just a few feet away.”
The kitchen area is streamlined and shines with several high-end finishes, from leathered granite countertops to glossy subway tile and sleek cabinetry. The Englands decided to take it up a notch by installing a buffet sideboard, complete with wooden shelves –which were made by Blake as a wedding gift to Lauren – and plenty of space to hang easy-access kitchen items. These small details make all the difference in improving flow in high-traffic spaces and offering areas to showcase decorative items like art, plants, and glassware.
Another special area in the home is the nursery. Lauren and Blake poured a lot of love into this space, making sure it felt welcoming and fit for a little one’s imagination. Lauren painted a dreamy accent wall with clouds, matched in theme by a hanging wicker hot air balloon and lightweight drapes. Neutraltoned, lush furnishings contribute to the airy effect, and floating shelves and racks display Rosie’s books and stylish outfits.
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Photo
Ali Harper
Last but certainly not least, the primary suite also reveals Lauren’s eye for natural and comfortable design in cohesion with the rest of the home. This space has a touch of a coastal feel with the inclusion of wall paneling and warm, neutral tones throughout. A love for textures shines through the furnishings and décor, blending wood tones, leather, stone, and metallic accents, while a smattering of houseplants creates a relaxing background of greenery. On nice evenings, the second-story porch is a perfect spot to unwind and soak in the ambience of the neighborhood.
Equally adaptable for hosting or a cozy family movie night, every corner of the England home is imbued with love and intention. “I’ve loved learning about design and how things are built,” Lauren reflects. “My husband, dad, and I have spent so much time creating almost everything in the main living area. I’m so proud of what we’ve made and am constantly thinking about what’s next!”
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THE WESTBROOK HOME
Creating Contemporary Comfort
After nearly 30 years of living in San Francisco, the Westbrooks decided it was time for a change. Originally from Atlanta, Mary and Jack are outdoorsy folk who also love a city scene, so Chattanooga was the perfect place to settle while also being closer to family. “I have to honestly say it’s the best choice we made because this area offers so much,” says Mary.
BY TORY IRMEGER
PHOTOGRAPHY BY DANIEL NEUHOFF/CREATIVE REVOLVER
When they discovered this new build, it was the best of both worlds –close to the city center and situated within the natural beauty of the nearby ridgeline. It’s no surprise that the Westbrooks wanted the design of their new home to tie in with the natural world, both in structure as well as aesthetics. The Westbrooks have also traveled broadly, and they bring inspiration from around the world to their contemporary Chattanooga home.
The Westbrooks worked closely with their team to customize a layout that would perfectly suit their daily needs and love for entertaining. “One thing I knew I wanted was a huge sliding glass door opening out onto a porch,” says Mary. “It’s kind of a California thing because the weather is so good there that you can just open up and enjoy the outdoors pretty much all year round.” Here, this expanse brings those in the home closer to experiencing the four seasons. This sliding glass door feature opens up the kitchen to the porch and pool deck, creating a spacious area where guests can comfortably mingle. During a party, everyone ends up in the kitchen, and Mary structured the main living areas with this in mind. The island acts as a central point between the backyard and the interior living and dining spaces. This way, whoever is in the kitchen can tune in to conversation in every direction and always feel part of the party.
“We wanted to give space for everyone to be where they feel comfortable and connected,” Mary says, “whether that’s by the pool with their cocktails, in front of the fireplace watching the game, or sitting indoors in the living room.”
The house features strong sightlines throughout, contributing to a feeling of cohesion between living spaces. From the kitchen, guests have a direct line of sight to the pool deck with its symmetrical fire bowls and sheer descent waterfall feature. This beautiful, calming element
is then carried into the interior spaces. The décor also plays a role in inviting guests into an ambient space. The Westbrooks have traveled all over, from Morocco to Papua New Guinea and more. “When we travel, I always come home with something and it goes some-
where in the house,” Mary says. African, Mediterranean, and Oceanic influences come through in various spaces, such as the porch with its ceramics, woven wicker shades, and geometric throw pillows. This area is breezy and serene, perfect for any brunch or soiree.
From the living room, the windows reveal a thick canopy of foliage – “it almost feels like you’re part of the trees,” Mary adds. The open concept living and dining spaces flow seamlessly together, blending contemporary and traditional design. Natural elements shine in this space, such as the sleek concrete fireplace and various wooden furnishings, all of which are softened by neutral, plush textiles.
mpire BelleWether provides urban sophistication with a touch of tranquility. Located in the bustling Northshore area, our new townhomes offer contemporary designs, luxurious finishes, and a prime location. Enjoy the convenience of city living with nearby shopping, dining, and entertainment, all while retreating to the comfort of a stylish and serene home.
mpire Social Circle in East Brainerd offers a unique circular layout that fosters social interactions and a sense of balance. Enjoy modern living with amenities that bring neighbors together, creating a vibrant and welcoming neighborhood. Come home to where community and comfort meet.
In the dining room, split windows illuminate this area and frame a favorite painting of Mary’s: “This painting in the dining room – everyone has their own interpretation of it. It looks like a figure – could be a man or a woman – but it just flows.” This dynamic, abstract portrait was a gift from Mary’s mother, who purchased it from a family friend’s Atlanta gallery years ago. Another favorite artwork hangs in the entryway. These two portraits were procured during a trip to Papua New Guinea in the ‘80s. This style of art called “sand painting” evolved in the Enga province, where colored sand is skillfully glued onto a backdrop depicting vibrant images of Engan life. It was a labor of love to transport the art back to the States without obscuring the sandy image, but the result was well worth the effort as the dynamic pieces are now featured in the forefront of the home.
Rounding out the home is a modern primary suite, featuring gentle, warmtoned neutrals and contemporary comforts. A tray ceiling heightens the space, and the walls are soon to be filled with memorabilia from future travel. This versatile approach allows
for the home to constantly evolve as the Westbrooks explore more corners of the world and bring home new design influences and stories to share. Since moving to Chattanooga, the Westbrooks have loved the opportunity to share their home with out-of-town
friends as well as connect with their neighbors. “This neighborhood is kind of in a place of change, and it’s so fascinating to hear residents speak about the history of the area,” Mary reflects.
“That makes us really feel more at home in this awesome neighborhood. We’re glad to be a part of the amazing history that’s here.”
BRENDA JEAN ADAMSON
Affiliate Broker Licensed in TN
Brenda Jean Adamson, a proud native of Chattanooga, is deeply familiar with the neighborhoods and communities throughout the greater Chattanooga area. Growing up in a family of builders and developers, Brenda Jean’s exposure to real estate came early in life, sparking her passion for the industry. Her expertise in project management and customer service, along with her extensive knowledge of the local market, ensures that every transaction is smooth and successful. With a wealth of experience and a personalized, hands-on approach, Brenda Jean makes the entire real estate process enjoyable, stress-free, and rewarding.
MICHELLE JOHNSON
Affiliate Broker Licensed in TN
Michelle moved to Chattanooga in 2022 and brought with her 22 years of real estate experience. Early in her career she worked extensively with first time home buyers, as well as relocation buyers and sellers. Later she transitioned to new construction working for a custom builder where she represented hundreds of clients, taking them through the build process. Michelle’s clients often describe her as detailed oriented, proactive, and fun to work with. In her free time, Michelle proudly volunteers with the Chattanooga non-profit, Downside Up Inc.
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Call us today and begin your journey with one of Chattanooga’s Top Realtors. Local, connected, and ready to move you.
THE MORGAN-HINKLE HOME
Living History on the Ridge
BY TORY IRMEGER / PHOTOGRAPHY BY DANIEL NEUHOFF/CREATIVE REVOLVER
Preserving a historic site is an exercise in patience and attention –living in one is no different. This is the experience of Todd Morgan and Steven Hinkle, who have spent the past three years continuing the restoration of their historic home on Missionary Ridge.
Todd, who works in preservation, is no stranger to uncovering the mysteries behind historic buildings. Between trips to the public library to pore over newspaper clippings and maps, as well as connecting with community members and neighbors in connection to the property, Todd and Steven have uncovered many of the seams in the fabric of the house’s history.
“A lot of folks seem to have memories of this house,” Todd shares, “It’s nice to feel like you’re part of the community’s history when you live in a place.”
Construction began on the home in 1909 by Joseph Trimby, builder of several notable buildings in Chattanooga, including City Hall and the Carnegie Library. Trimby’s close friend and consistent collaborator, architect R.H. Hunt, is attributed with the design of the home. The house has seen several
other prominent figures throughout its lifetime, and it’s known colloquially as “the McCravey home” for the family that lived in the house in the middle of the 20th century: Chattanooga’s first neurosurgeon Dr. Augustus McCravey and his wife Helen Marjorie Wells McCravey.
The house showcases classical symmetry and trimmings – aesthetic qualities that caught the eye of Todd and Steven years before they bought the home. “I never would have dreamed that we would be the owners of the house,” Todd says. “It’s a privilege to experience a house like this, to know that you’re part of this lineage of the home’s history and you’re just stewards for a moment in time.” As part of the home’s lineage, Todd and Steven have carried on the tradition of naming houses by dubbing this home “Wrencrest.”
Todd and Steven already had an affinity for traditional décor, which the architecture of the home naturally lends itself to. That being said, there were several spots of the home that needed refreshing when they moved in. For replacement parts like interior doors and hardware pieces, they have tried to stay as true to the original design as possible in keeping with the spirit of the home.
“Even having worked in preservation for a while, it’s been great to really experience a historic home in a very personal way,” says Todd. “You start to really pay attention to the craftsmanship and the quality of materials. When we first bought it, we immediately created a list of all the things that we needed to do, and I'm so glad that we ended up pacing ourselves and taking it bit by bit because we’ve made different decisions after living with the house for a while. Sometimes you just have to live with a place for it to tell you all of its secrets.”
Making sense of a historic place requires putting yourself in the perspective of someone’s daily life a century ago. One difference between early 20th and 21st century living is how a home is illuminated: guests will find very little overhead lighting in Wrencrest. The library, for example, is swathed in natural light from original French doors and arched windows.
Supplementary wall sconces, candelabras, and antique lamps create a warmth that is inherent to the home’s original design. This is a great complement to the primary entertaining space in the house, which has been used over the years for social clubs, family gatherings, and now doubles as a music room for Steven and Todd.
Todd Morgan & Steven Hinkle
Alongside antique décor and rich wooden furnishings, Wrencrest features bright pops of color throughout. Steven shares that he’s always loved jewel tones, which comes through in the ruby shades and cool blues of the library and dining rooms. The intricate white trim
offsets the saturated walls, adding apt dynamics to the storied house. The dining room hints at another piece of Wrencrest’s past. A 1928 aerial photo of the home reveals the strong colonial revival influence on the façade of the house, including an entryway portico with classical
columns. This porch was removed in 1944 after a B-24 Liberator crashed on Missionary Ridge under poor weather conditions. Four darkened triangles above the west-facing windows in the dining room are evidence of the restoration that followed the accident.
The kitchen, as with many other spaces of Wrencrest, is a melody of influences from several decades as each owner left their fingerprints on the home. This space was once the formal dining room and was remodeled by a previous owner into a kitchen. Beyond the more recent addition of the island and bar, the stunning original mantelpiece hints at the room’s past life as a fine space for entertaining.
Here, under a sidebar displaying heirloom serveware and fine china, Todd and Steven also feature a treasured
art piece: a portrait by Tennessee artist Adelia Armstrong Lutz. Lutz lived from 1859 to 1931 and was instrumental in the formation of Knoxville’s first visual-arts organization, the Knoxville Art Club (later renamed the Nicholson Art League). Todd and Steven were introduced to Lutz’s work while Todd worked at Westwood, her historic home in Knoxville.
“I love the story behind that because when I was working at Westwood, I got to learn about Adelia and her impact on the art community in Knoxville,” Todd
says. “It just opened up a whole world of how people can influence their community at a particular time. She was one of two women who co-founded an art league in Knoxville, and they worked with artists no matter gender or skin color – their only goal being to bring beauty into the world.”
Todd and Steven have an additional painting of Lutz’s, which was gifted to them by Diana Samples, the artist’s great-granddaughter. “It’s a way we’ve brought our history with us to this house,” Steven adds.
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Throughout the ups and downs of restoration and research, Todd and Steven have appreciated the opportunities Wrencrest offers to take in the natural beauty all around. “There’s an opportunity to interact with nature here that you may not have in another city neighborhood,” Steven says.
Todd agrees, adding, “You see spectacular sunrises and sunsets in this house. You’re watching from within the shelter how the outside world changes throughout the day. That’s been one of the more joyful experiences because it causes you to slow down and just think about the world.”
A favorite spot for relaxing is the roof deck, featuring panoramic views of downtown Chattanooga to the west and the rolling landscape to the east. In some ways, the preservation of Wrencrest is never complete, but that’s one of the joys of the work, Steven shares:
“It’s a bit of that European notion that you are not really the owner of a property, you’re the steward of it for the time you’re there. This is our time to be here, but the house will be here longer than we are. So you have to ask, ‘What does your stewardship do to protect it until you hand it off to the one who will be next, who you hope will also protect and enhance it?’ In that sense, the house really does have its own living history.”
Grace Thomas
Illuminating a Modern Marvel
Stepping into John Crews’ home is like stepping into a retro dream, where shag carpet, open pine ceilings, and groovy furnishings reign supreme.
BY TORY IRMEGER PHOTOGRAPHY BY BEKAH BERRY/CREATIVE REVOLVER
“I would say this house is a total reflection of my design aesthetic and style, as well as how I think about designing products for people’s spaces – it’s all very integrated to me,” John says. “I’m a very nostalgic person. I loved coming into this house for the first time and imagining what it was like when the interior really reflected the architecture in that era and reimagining what it could be.”
The house, built in 1970, exudes mid-century sensibilities from the outside-in. The low-sloped roof sweeps into winged gables, showcasing a series of windows all along the exterior of the house. This roofline is one of the things that caught John’s eye when house hunting two years ago: “I think the moment I knew I was going to live here was when I saw the view from the back of the house, with the windows and the amount of light coming in. That connection to the outdoors was so important to me.”
This unique home draws on a variety of styles: the blurring of boundaries between the indoors and outdoors is reminiscent of West Coast design, while natural stone and a darker color palette infuse characteristics of a mountain build. Bridging all of this together are the sleek silhouettes of mid-century elements. When John set about to refresh the home, he began building off the foundation already laid.
“The architecture is very transparent,” he points out, “You’re constantly reminded of the structural integrity of the building. For example, these ceiling beams are the skeleton that hold this place together, and everything in the house emanates from the central stone fireplace.”
Since this stone fireplace is the anchor point for the sunken living room, John decided to spruce it up a bit. He created the backdrop out of wooden slats stained the color of the pine paneling to integrate the ceiling into the lower half of the room. The sunburst fixture was found by the pool, which John salvaged and reguilded to use as a centerpiece. This, in combination with the sectional and layered geometric rugs, creates the effect of a lounge-worthy conversation pit.
Curated artwork and memorabilia from John’s travels fill the walls along the perimeter of the living room. Sculptures, woodblock prints, abstract paintings, and one large lava lamp create a gallery alongside the stunning adjustable Danish shelving unit from the late ‘50s. Many of the furnishings in the home were thrifted or upcycled over the years, proving John’s love for discovering hidden treasures, as well as his longstanding love for modernism: “Most everything you see here is something I acquired or something that found its way to me.”
Congratulations
TO OUR 2024 NATIONAL PHILANTHROPY DAY WINNERS!
National Philanthropy Day is a special day to recognize the significant contributions of philanthropy and the people active in the philanthropic community to the enrichment of our world.
OUTSTANDING YOUTH IN PHILANTHROPY
Sydney Guerrette
OUTSTANDING PHILANTHROPIST AWARD
General (Ret.) B.B. Bell
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Southern Champion Tray
EXCELLENCE IN FUNDRAISING AWARD
CHI Memorial Foundation
VOLUNTEER LEADERSHIP FUNDRAISER AWARD
Thomas A.H. White
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Jennifer W. Nicely, CFRE, FAHP
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Part of the challenge in refreshing the home was opening up the spaces to accommodate better flow between the main living areas. “My goal wasn’t to completely modernize the home to how people live today, but to reinterpret ‘70s modern design for contemporary living,” John says. This included expanding the kitchen and incorporating an expansive island, all while keeping with the feel of a mid-century space. He opted for brass fixtures, slabstyle walnut cabinetry, and glossy Moroccan zellige tile.
The home showcases the stunning simplicity of natural materials, from wood, leather, ceramic, and textured accents. Blonde hardwood floors (a contemporary concession) and white stucco walls provide a neutral backdrop for brightly colored and patterned textiles to play. Supplementary accent lighting fills funky shades and lamp bases, giving the interior of the home a warm radiance.
“At night, with the wood ceilings illuminated, this house is a different story completely,” John says. “Everything exudes a fiery glow.”
Another reimagined space is now functioning as a bedroom, but was once “the hot tub room.” This room takes advantage of the indoor-outdoor design with wall-to-wall windows overlooking greenery and foliage beyond. Guests would never guess that this serene space, as well as the pool deck below, has seen its fair share of entertaining in its day. The home had a vibrant past under previous ownership in the ‘70s and ‘80s, and it was even home to a pet cougar, named Sheba, for about 20 years.
John Crews
Looking back at this intriguing history, John is now bringing a new season of living and entertaining to the home. The design is always in flux, but that’s the exciting part, John says, as it continually offers an engaging canvas for him to flex his creative muscles.
(Right) Photo Courtesy of John Crews
MEET TH E PRESIDENTS
Student presidents are a voice for their classmates, influence positive change, and are a role model for their student body community, while also tackling classes, sports, and extracurricular activities. We’re proud to feature many of our local schools’ student body presidents, elected by their peers to lead their schools and uphold community values.
Anna Morgan | Student Body Co-President, Soddy Daisy High School
Three things you hope to accomplish in life? My main goal in life is to create a loving family and raise my children to be good people. I also hope to have a career that uses my personal strengths. I want to enjoy my job and also support myself and family. My overall goal is to be a representation of Jesus and encourage my peers to have a positive and hopeful mindset to make the world a better place and lead others to Him. Where would you like to travel? Madrid, Spain. Last year, I became close friends with an exchange student from Madrid. Learning about her culture and growing a friendship with her has influenced my desire to travel there and see her again. Impact you want to make on the world? I strive to encourage everyone to have a purpose and feel wanted. For me, this starts within my school. I try to make it a more enjoyable place for everyone.
Piper Ormsby | Student Body Co-President, Soddy Daisy High School
Three things you hope to accomplish in life? I hope to become a renowned large animal veterinarian. I hope to open my own large animal clinic, and I hope to influence the people around me that you can achieve whatever you’d like as long as you truly set your mind to it and put in the work! Impact you want to make on the world? I aim to help those around me and inspire them to be strong, independent leaders of their own, while making them feel comfortable and welcome. Where would you like to travel? My dream location would have to be Japan. Biggest lesson you’ve learned through leadership positions? I’ve learned to have compassion and empathy for others. I’ve learned over time that leadership isn’t just about direction and guidance but caring for those around you in order to make them feel wanted and appreciated.
Carson Goff | 2025 Class President, Lakeview Fort-Oglethorpe High School
Proudest accomplishment? I’m varsity captain in football and baseball and a member of the National Honor Society and Beta Club. I maintained a 4.0 GPA throughout high school, and I’m an employee at Council Fire Golf Club and AMC Chattanooga 18. Something you hope to accomplish in life? I would like to make it to college as a baseball player and be the first person in my family to graduate from college. Biggest lesson you’ve learned through leadership positions? I have learned how to be able to handle adversity, how to lead and teach other players, and how to be the person people look up to no matter what is going on. Where would you like to travel? I would love to eventually be able to travel to Banff, Canada, on a golf trip with some of my friends and family.
Gwyneth Parks | Student Council President, Girls Preparatory School
Biggest lesson you’ve learned through leadership positions? I’ve learned that the greatest rewards stem from the ability to make the majority of individuals content. When a decision can be made that benefits the majority, and you can see the positive impact, it’s extremely meaningful. Proudest accomplishment? I’m proud of how much I’ve grown at GPS. I’ve become more bold and involved, and this institution has taught me how to become the leader I am, constantly pushing and empowering me. Impact you want to make on the world? While my future work in the STEM field will hopefully be an opportunity to make a scientific change, I hope my impact as a leader can make a difference, beginning in my school community and spreading further. Higher education or career goals? I intend to pursue biochemistry, and I plan to use this to advance into a clinical or environmental research field.
Ethan
Johnson | Senior Class President, Chattanooga High Center for Creative Arts
Proudest accomplishment? Achieving the position of class president for two years running is a huge accomplishment for me. I’ve always been an introvert, so being able to put myself out there and earn the votes and respect of my peers made me really proud. Three things you hope to accomplish in life? I really want to become fluent in one or more other languages, and I would love to compete on a reality competition someday. But most of all, I want to reach a point where I am satisfied with the life I have led and can recognize my own self-worth. Is there anything you’d like to add? A quote I live by is “You should take the chance to lose because you deserve the chance to win.” If anyone, like I was, is feeling scared to put themselves out there and become a leader, it’s impossible to succeed if you never try. Ignore your doubts and just go for it!
Azariah Alqadri | Student Body President, East Ridge High School
Biggest lesson you’ve learned through leadership positions? The biggest lesson I have learned is inclusivity. As the president, I plan to be the voice for the student body and allow them to speak their mind with inclusion. Person you admire most? I admire my mother for her hard work and diligence. She sacrificed so much for me, and I wouldn’t be here without her. Impact you want to make on the world? The impact I want to make is to help kids around the world get acquainted by teaching them specific languages and customs. Three things you hope to accomplish in life? I would like to accomplish many things, but among them, I would love a happy family with two beautiful kids, to travel the world and see the beauty it has to offer, and lastly, I would like to help women through my degree in sonography.
Bryce Hart | Senior Class President, Ringgold High School
Biggest lesson you’ve learned through leadership positions? I’ve learned the massive life lessons of compassion and grace. I strongly believe that NO ONE is the way that they are without a valid reason. As a leader, you need compassion and grace to understand where people are coming from. Higher education or career goals? I look forward to getting my degree in college and playing collegiate football. After college, I will play professional football in the NFL. I have worked for the dream of playing professional football and using that platform to spread the gospel since the age of 10. Three things you hope to accomplish in life? I hope to be the best father this world has ever seen. I also hope to help my mom retire as early as possible and take any financial responsibility from her. Finally, I want to be the greatest at whatever I do, most prominently being a defensive player in professional football.
Snigdha Challa | Senior Class President, East Hamilton High School
Impact you want to make on the world? I’m very passionate about animal welfare and the environment. When I’m older, I want to know that I did everything in my power to protect the natural world and show it my gratitude. Biggest lesson you’ve learned through leadership positions? Student council taught me to facilitate mature conversations, take criticism, cooperate with my peers, and stay organized. With these skills, my officers and I managed to run a donation relief drive for Hurricane Helene victims, raising around two and a half tons of donations. Three things you hope to accomplish in life? Three things I hope to accomplish in life would be to maintain a close-knit circle of family and friends, always continue to pursue education (whether through college, research, or challenging myself in my career), and support the arts/hobbies (reading, painting, music, etc.) that bring out the humanistic side of me.
Johnny Sutter | Honor Council Chair, Baylor School
Biggest lesson you’ve learned through leadership positions? From my own experience, I’ve learned that leadership positions are not necessarily awarded to the most knowledgeable, tenured, or skillful person within a discipline but rather those simply willing to work towards the betterment of whatever they’re involved in. Three things you hope to accomplish in life? I hope to become financially stable, study cultures from across the world, and then retire to a small town in the Pacific Northwest. Impact you want to make on the world? My leadership position is centralized around the virtue of honor, something which I believe has a broader significance than just honesty. With that in mind, I hope to create a world more inclined to honor through the virtues of honesty, of course, but also humility, good humor, and attentiveness. Person you admire most? I admire Bob Weir a great deal.
Torin Young | Student Body President, Signal Mountain Middle High School
Proudest accomplishment? I helped start the fall festival my sophomore year on the council, which I have been able to see evolve over the last three years and slowly become a tradition at my school. Biggest lesson you’ve learned through leadership positions? The importance of listening to feedback and input. Higher education or career goals? I plan to study economics, and my goal is to become financially secure in my career and have the freedom to develop and explore personal goals, ideally helping the community I become a part of. Where would you like to travel? I’d love to travel to Norway and explore my Nordic roots. Impact you want to make on the world? I think lessening division is incredibly important to our future as a society, and I hope to find common ground with others to solve problems.
Jamyah Melvin-Johnson | Class President, Brainerd High School
Impact you want to make on the world? I want all kids that come from poverty and hardship to know that you can conquer it and reach your full potential no matter your background. I want to help my community know that you can find motivation in that hardship and come out on top. Three things you hope to accomplish in life? The three things I hope to accomplish in life are to become a legend in my community and high school, a great teacher and accountant, and lastly, the best mother. Proudest accomplishment? Obtaining a summer internship at Chambliss Law Firm at the age of 17. Being a first-generation college student and maintaining a 3.9 GPA. Running a QuickBooks account for a nonprofit from the ages of 15-17. Challenging Brainerd student stereotypes. Person you admire most? I admire my mother. She has taught me to be independent and dedicated.
Isabel Burciaga | Senior Class President, Dalton Academy
Proudest accomplishment? Being captain of my cheer team last year made an impact on my leadership skills because I felt honored to lead people I care about and lead them in something I am very passionate about. Impact you want to make on the world? I would like to spread love and happiness around the world because I know what it feels like to be not as positive, and those are feelings everyone should be able to experience. On hard days, I want to be the one to make others smile. Higher education or career goals? I would like to study speech therapy for children with disabilities because I feel that communication is a necessity for life and for building social connections. My goal is that the children I come in contact with will be able to express themselves. Where would you like to travel? I have always wanted to travel to Paris, France.
Harris Jenne | Class President, Silverdale Baptist Academy
Proudest accomplishment? My proudest accomplishment is being voted on by the student body to serve as the student council and student body president. Biggest lesson you’ve learned through leadership positions? I have learned that leaders are forced to make challenging decisions, and I have learned to consider different perspectives. Higher education or career goals? I plan to study biology and attend medical school. Three things you hope to accomplish in life? I want to look back and see that I ran my race faithfully and left it all on the field. I want to finish empty. I want to know that I am fully invested in the areas of my life that truly matter. Next, I want to have lived without fear, knowing that I became the person God created me to be. Lastly, I want to make a positive impact on all those around me by showing them what it’s like to be a Christ follower.
Kieana Ferguson | Student Body President, Grace Baptist Academy
Higher education or career goals? I plan on majoring in criminal justice. With God’s guidance, I want to be able to serve my community by bringing closure and justice to families that are impacted by violence. Where would you like to travel? It has been my dream to visit New York. I would love to see the Christmas lights and watch the ball drop on New Year’s Eve. I also want to visit Ground Zero and pay my respects to the lives lost on 9/11. Three things you hope to accomplish in life? My main goal in life is to show the love of God and lead others to Him by letting His work show through me. My second goal is to provide for my mom and nana the way they have provided for me. My third goal is to be able to help people in my future career and make a difference in their lives.
Brooklyn Ervin | Senior Class President, Red Bank High School
Impact you want to make on the world? The impact I want to make on the world is to make a difference in the community and motivate others to educate themselves on issues in their communities, so that they are motivated to help others. Higher education or career goals? I plan on going to college and getting a degree in biomedical engineering. Three things you hope to accomplish in life? Three things I hope to accomplish in life is to have a family, have an impact on my community, and be successful. Biggest lesson you’ve learned through leadership positions? Not everyone is the same. In order to be an effective leader you have to be able to know how to talk to different people. Person you admire most? I admire my father the most. He is the best person I know, and I know that I can always count on him for advice and support.
Allie Piersant | Student Council President, Chattanooga Christian School
Proudest accomplishment? My proudest accomplishment is being elected president this year. In order to be elected, I had to give a speech, which is very outside of my comfort zone. I’m glad I pushed to do that though, because I love my school. Impact you want to make on the world? I want to take care of the people around me. The biggest impact I can make is being good to the people I love. Biggest lesson you’ve learned through leadership positions? Lots of responsibilities come with being a leader, so to be able to make a quick and thoughtful decision is very rewarding. Person you admire most? I really admire my mom. She has taught me what it means to be well-rounded and a kind and thoughtful leader. Where would you like to travel? I would love to go to Italy!
Tre’Veion Tucker | Student Council President, Chattanooga Preparatory School
Proudest accomplishment? Making the Principal’s List each year (all As). Impact you want to make on the world? I want to encourage and influence the youth of future generations to create a better tomorrow. Person you admire most? My mother. Three things you hope to accomplish in life? Graduate with my undergraduate degree, establish my own business, and become a head football coach. Where would you like to travel? To Africa. Higher education or career goals? I plan to attend a four-year university and pursue a degree in digital marketing. Is there anything you’d like to add? Everyone is different in their own special way. We all have unique gifts and talents that we can contribute to society. I encourage everyone to embrace their uniqueness and maximize their potential.
Samantha Brown
| Captain of the House of Fortis Bellator, Notre Dame High School
Proudest accomplishment? I worked hard to obtain a 4.46 weighted GPA to be within the top of my class. Impact you want to make on the world? I want to aid the homeless through innovative ways that will benefit their lives by means of shelters and organizations. Three things you hope to accomplish in life? In college, I hope to study abroad and learn about different cultures and values. Next, I hope to earn a bachelor’s degree in engineering, where I’ll start my first internship and a successful career. Then, I’d like to have a big family to love and support for the rest of my life. Biggest lesson you’ve learned through leadership positions? The definition of leadership includes the ability to guide, inspire, and influence others while maintaining a positive environment where every voice is heard. Leadership brings on the roles of responsibility and patience.
Olivia O’Dell
| Student Council President, Sale Creek Middle High School
Higher education or career goals? When I was younger, my sister went through three years of physical, occupational, and speech therapy. I have known since then that I want to use my talents to help children. I plan on doing this through pediatric therapy. Proudest accomplishment? My mission trip work in Costa Rica. While there, we did community outreach with local church groups and schools to provide fun activities and food. Impact you want to make on the world? I want to show the love of Christ through service, local ministries, and my career. I also want to continue to participate in mission work for children in other countries as well as the U.S. Person you admire most? The person I admire most is my grandfather, Pops. I always keep in mind the lessons and advice that he gave me when it comes to being a leader and maintaining my relationships with others.
Zane
McSpadden | Student Body President, Walker Valley High School
Proudest accomplishment? I am so proud of how many people’s lives I have impacted through my leadership, service, and all-around love for WVHS. Biggest lesson you’ve learned through leadership positions? Good leadership comes from empowering others to grow and succeed. Leadership isn’t about being the best but about helping others improve, teaching them to work as a team, and building a squad that can take on any challenge. Three things you hope to accomplish in life? I want to always glorify God with all that I do and make at least a small difference in the life of every person I meet. Hopefully, I will learn how to do a backflip on a snowboard, too. Where would you like to travel? I would love to go to Alaska. I love to admire the beauty in God’s creation, and Alaska has some of the most beautiful nature on earth. Plus, they have some rad powder for snowboarding!
Houston Hicks | Student Body Co-President, Boyd-Buchanan Upper School
Proudest accomplishment? Starting a fundraiser that accumulated thousands of dollars to help build a library in Haiti. Higher education goals? To go to medical school and become either a pediatrician or a neurologist. Biggest lesson you’ve learned through leadership positions? Leadership is just as much if not more about leading by example rather than dictating orders to others on what to do and not to do. Impact you want to make on the world? I want to be able to make every person I meet feel wanted and loved, the same way God first loved us. Where would you like to travel? Somewhere in Europe, maybe a trip where you see one country a day for a week.
Evie Winn | Student Body Co-President, Boyd-Buchanan Upper School
Biggest lesson you’ve learned through leadership positions? How to effectively manage time. Learning how to balance my team between serving others and also being involved in athletics, theatre, and still keeping up with school work is a skill that will help me succeed in life. Person you admire most? Our school band director, Becca Smith. Ms. Smith has been an ever-present mentor, counselor, and friend to myself and others. Impact you want to make on the world? My desire is to become a physical therapist so I can help people recover from injuries or improve their strength and mobility due to other health circumstances. I want to help people get back on their feet and be a little spark of joy and happiness in their day. Higher education or career goals? I plan on attending the University of Tennessee at Knoxville next year to pursue a doctorate in physical therapy. Then, I plan to become a pediatric physical therapist.
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HOLIDAY
SECTION GET NOTICED HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS
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HOLIDAY BLESSINGS
“Our holiday outfits strike a balance between glamour and comfort. The sequin joggers add the right amount of sparkle and festive flair while the rich texture of velvet adds warmth and sophistication. From formal events to entertaining at home, these outfits are perfect for any holiday celebration!”
- Heather Stafford, Owner
Photo by Kristina Armstrong
Left: Ginny Brooke Jackson Chickamauga, GA
Shirt: Pixi + Ivy Pants: Miss B
Right: Natalie Ford Chattanooga, TN
Dress: Carole Christian
The Blue Collection
Alice Blue | Hanover Blue | Electric Blue thebluecollection.com 1100 Hixson Pike, Suite 112 423.531.2120
“Make this upcoming holiday season one to remember. Treat yourself and those you love to a day of fashion, fun, and fabulousness. Come play dress up with us! And bring a camera to take photos to keep and cherish as your loved ones grow up, move away, or grow gray. ”
- Anita Oaks Headrick, Owner & CEO
Photo by Hacker Medias
Right: Olivia Robinson Chattanooga, TN Studio B-3
Dress: Frances Valentine Shades: Krewe Earrings: The Blue Collection
Left: Macon Pet Therapy Lab
Olivia Robinson B3 Salon Chattanooga, TN
Mountain Dew (Dewey)
Shot
Yacoubian Tailors
“Whether you’re dressed up in sparkles or dressed down for comfort, the most important thing for the holidays is to remain true to yourself!”
- Ani Yacoubian Riggs, Buyer
Photo by Kristina Armstrong
Left: Linda Norwood Signal Mountain, TN
Top, Jacket, & Pants: DREW
Earrings: Erin Gray
Necklace: Mackenzie Harper
Right: Dede Bennett Signal Mountain, TN
Top & Pants: Lyssé
Earrings: Erin Gray
WON’T HANG AROUND FOR LONG.
Bundle up in winter’s finest! Hurry into Yacoubians and get a look at the latest in winter fashion. It’s sure to warm you up.
HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS
Your Guide to 2024-2025 Events the Whole Family Can Enjoy
Each year, many of Chattanooga’s venues and attractions celebrate the holiday season in a magical way. Twinkling lights abound, and merry sounds of bells and carols ring throughout the mountains as locals celebrate the most wonderful time of the year. Gather your loved ones, and use our guide to discover festivities all around the Scenic City!
NoogaLights at the Choo Choo, Christmas Walk-Thru Light Show
Enjoy a traditional holiday light show on foot with friends and family, open this year in the Choo Choo gardens nightly from Nov. 15 through Dec. 31. This not-so-traditional light show will feature synchronized music and themed lighting in the famous gardens of the Chattanooga Choo Choo. Open nightly with starting times at dusk.
Rock
City’s 30th Enchanted Garden of Lights
WHEN: Nov. 15-Jan. 4, nightly, closed Christmas Eve
CONTACT: seerockcity.com/lights or 706.820.2531
COST: Check website for nightly pricing. Tickets online only.
Rock City is celebrating 30 years of magic, moments, and memories with its Enchanted Garden of Lights! This uniquely festive light
experience has become a beloved holiday tradition and is not to be missed during this anniversary event. Visitors can journey down the all-new Christmas tree walk with real falling snow to visit Santa at Carter Cliffs, the original home of Rock City’s founders, decorate a GingerGnome cookie, and more at this enchanting celebration. Tickets online only.
Holiday Events
at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum
WHEN: Nov. 15-Jan. 12, select dates CONTACT: tvrail.com or 423.894.8028
COST: Varies by event.
The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum has an abundance of fun holiday events. Hop aboard the North Pole Limited in Chattanooga or the Hiwassee Holiday Train in Delano for a magical train journey featuring refreshments, storytelling, and a visit from Santa, or enjoy all the sights and sounds of the season at a relaxing pace on the Holiday Lights Train. A holiday tearoom experience is also offered for guests looking for a festive event that includes a train ride, offering a two-and-a-half-hour experience with full high tea fare.
Photo Courtesy of Rock City
Rock City’s 30th Enchanted Garden of Lights
Holiday Events at the Choo Choo
WHEN: Nov. 17-Jan. 1
CONTACT: choochoo.com or 423.266.5000
COST: Varies depending on activity.
Each year, the Chattanooga Choo Choo transforms into a winter wonderland for guests and visitors alike. Starting Nov. 17, check out Hamilton County’s tallest indoor Christmas tree and enjoy other festive activities including opportunities for visits and photos with Santa Claus.
Holiday Events at The Edwin
WHEN: Nov. 19 - Dec. 31, select dates
CONTACT: theedwinhotel.com or 423.713.5900
COST: Visit website for pricing.
This year’s holiday events at the Edwin Hotel are full of festive cheer. The popular outdoor igloos will return on Nov. 19, offering a private and intimate setting under the stars. Starting Dec. 1, visitors can enjoy holiday music on Saturday evenings and during Sunday’s Brunch. The Cookies with The Clauses & Toy Drive will take place on Dec. 14 from 2 to 4 p.m. for a magical, family-friendly afternoon of holiday cheer! Adults will enjoy a night of holiday fun and laughter at the Ugly Sweater Comedy Night on Dec. 14, and at the NYE Party, guests can ring in the New Year at Chattanooga’s first rooftop bar.
NoogaLights in Soddy Daisy,
Holiday Drive-Thru Light Show
WHEN: Nov. 22-Dec. 29, select nights
CONTACT: noogalights.com
COST: $20 per vehicle
On select weekends (Friday through Sunday) starting Nov. 22 and then nightly beginning Dec. 13, join NoogaLights in Soddy-Daisy! The 2024 drive-thru light show will feature a brand-new holiday lighting display featuring state-of-the-art NoogaLights lighting designs synchronized to music on your FM radio.
A Classic Christmas in Cleveland
WHEN: Nov. 23, Dec. 7
CONTACT: mainstreetcleveland.com or 423.479.1000
COST: FREE
This year, Downtown Cleveland will spread holiday cheer at Christmas on the Square
on Nov. 23 from 4 to 8 p.m. with plenty of family-friendly activities. The event will include making s’mores on the Courthouse Square, the Community Tree lighting, and church choir performances during Carols in the City. On Dec. 7 at 6 p.m., the Christmas parade will depart from Bradley Central High School and showcase lighted floats and local marching bands.
Christmas Open House at the Georgia Winery
WHEN: Nov. 23-Dec. 21, every Saturday
CONTACT: georgiawines.com or 706.937.9463
COST: FREE
Bring your holiday list to Georgia Winery’s Christmas Open House. Every Saturday before Christmas beginning Nov. 23, from 1 to 5 p.m., guests can enjoy free wine tastings and sip hot mulled wine while they browse for unique gifts and gourmet food products. Shop the premade gift baskets or build a custom basket. This year, during open house hours, there will be a $1 discount applied to every 8 oz. glass of wine ordered in-house.
Southern Belle
Holiday Events
WHEN: Nov. 23-Dec. 23, select Fridays and Saturdays
CONTACT: chattanoogariverboat.com or 423.266.4488
COST: Visit website for pricing.
Welcome the Christmas season at the Southern Belle with a scenic cruise. Choose from several seasonal cruises including Thanksgiving on the River, Christmas Dinner Cruises, Tis The Season Luncheon, and Breakfast with Santa.
Ice on the Landing
WHEN: Nov. 24-Feb. 2
CONTACT: iceonthelanding.com
COST: $14/adults; $12/children 12 and under, exceptions may apply
Ice on the Landing is celebrating 10 years of ice-skating fun for the whole family! Returning to the First Horizon Pavilion this year, visitors can expect an expanded rink of 1,400 square feet. Visit the website for ticket reservations, the schedule of operation, and details for skating, party reservations, and special promotions.
Photo
Asian Lantern Festival at Chattanooga Zoo Presented by
Asian Lantern Festival at Chattanooga Zoo
Presented by Chick-fil-A
WHEN: Nov. 26-Jan. 19
CONTACT: chattzoo.org or 423.697.1322
COST: See website for member and nonmember pricing.
The third annual Asian Lantern Festival boasts an all-new collection of over 40 illuminated lantern displays featuring dinosaurs and wildlife from the Amazon Rainforest. From 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. on Wednesdays through Sundays, visitors can explore the Zoo and enjoy this special celebration of art, culture, and the beauty of traditional Asian lantern festivals.
Holiday Windows at EPB
WHEN: Nov. 27-Jan. 1
CONTACT: epb.com
COST: FREE
EPB’s annual holiday window displays can be enjoyed all season long by visiting the EPB headquarters located at 10 West MLK Blvd. in downtown Chattanooga. The festive display will open at 5:30 p.m. on Nov. 27 and run through Jan. 1. The windows are located on the Broad and Market Street sides of the building.
Reindeer on the Riverfront & Lighted Boat Parade
WHEN: Nov. 29
CONTACT: rivercitycompany.com/reindeeron-the-riverfront, or 423.265.3700
COST: FREE
Returning this year with more fun for the whole family, this evening of holiday joy will begin at 4 p.m. at Ross’s Landing. Visitors can expect live reindeer and Santa on site for photos, a hot cocoa bar, food, artists, and entertainment vendors. The annual Lighted Boat Parade will begin at 7 p.m., and a spectacular fireworks show will close out this festive night at 8 p.m.
Ruby Falls Christmas
WHEN: Nov. 29-Dec. 24
CONTACT: rubyfalls.com or 423.821.2544
COST: $16.95-$39.95, tickets sold online
The holiday season shines bright at Ruby Falls on Lookout Mountain. Discover magical views, twinkling holiday lights on Village Plaza, and festive decorations in historic Ruby Falls Castle with special activities. Visitors can add a holiday wish
to the Forest of Wishes, visit Santa or send him a letter, enjoy iconic cave adventures, and linger longer with a casual meal, local craft beer, seasonal treats, and hot cocoa by the cozy fireplace at Castle Café.
Holiday Events at
The Read House
WHEN: Nov. 29, 30, Dec. 7, 24, 25
CONTACT: thereadhousehotel.com/holidays or 423.266.4121
COST: Visit website for pricing. Join in the holiday merriment and festivities at The Read House hotel this winter season. On Nov. 29, enjoy live entertainment, hot chocolate and cider, and pictures with Santa and Mrs. Claus during the Holiday Jubilee. On the mornings of Nov. 30 and Dec. 7, you can join Santa and Mrs. Claus for a special breakfast with a show-stopping spread every kid will enjoy. On Dec. 24 and 25, Bridgeman’s Chophouse welcomes all to celebrate the holiday with its full menu offerings and special Christmas features.
Holidays Under the Peaks
WHEN: Nov. 29-Dec. 29, closed Thanksgiving and Christmas Day
CONTACT: tnaqua.org or 800.262.0695
COST: Visit website for pricing.
This underwater wonderland will put you in the holiday spirit with music, décor, and seasonal surprises during your tour, including a tree twinkling in sync with the jolly jolts of an electric eel. SCUBA Claus will also be diving on weekends Nov. 30 to Dec. 22. Plus, special screenings of The Polar Express 3D return to the Tennessee Aquarium IMAX 3D Theater. Don’t miss the family favorite PJs and Polar event on Dec. 14. Put on your favorite pajamas and sip hot cocoa while you watch the movie. Make sure to purchase your tickets early.
Winter Playland at the Creative Discovery Museum
WHEN: Nov. 29-Jan. 7
CONTACT: cdmfun.org/winter-playland or 423.756.2738
COST: Visit website for pricing. The winter season brings “snow” much fun at Creative Discovery Museum! Winter programs include Cookie Decorating, Preschool Adventure: Let it Snow, and Winter Break Camp. In addition, join CDM for fun holiday events, including Drink & Discover: Buddy’s Holiday Workshop Extravaganza (21+ only), PJs with Santa, and Cheers to the New Year. Visit the website to learn more about dates, cost, and details!
Photo
CSO First Horizon Foundation Extras: Home for the Holidays
Experience a kingdom of dinosaurs and an Amazon Rainforest teeming with plants and animals
Home for the Holidays
WHEN: Dec. 4
CONTACT: eventbrite.com or 423.614.8320
COST: FREE
The award-winning a cappella ensemble, Voices of Lee, will present this Christmas concert in Pangle Hall, featuring both sacred and secular Christmas selections. Tickets are required but free to reserve online.
Ringgold Down Home Christmas
WHEN: Dec. 6
CONTACT: nothinlikeringgold.com/events/ or 706.935.3061
COST: FREE
Enjoy holiday cheer with family and friends at Ringgold Down Home Christmas. The lighting of Ringgold’s Christmas tree will begin Dec. 6 at 6 p.m. in Citizen’s Park, and the annual Down Home Christmas Parade will follow with live music, dancing, and more Christmas magic for the whole family to enjoy! This year’s parade will follow a new route, starting at Ringgold High School.
Winter Production at the Chattanooga Theatre Centre
WHEN: Dec. 6-Jan. 5, select dates
CONTACT: theatrecentre.com or 423.267.8534
COST: Visit website for pricing.
Celebrating their 101st holiday season, The Chattanooga Theatre Centre presents “Roald Dahl’s Willy Wonka.” Follow the enigmatic candy maker Willy Wonka as he stages a contest by hiding golden tickets in five of his delicious candy bars. Those who discover these tickets will win a free tour of the Wonka factory and a lifetime supply of candy. Among the lucky winners is Charlie Bucket, who embarks on the tour with his kind-hearted grandfather. But as the adventure unfolds, the children must learn to follow Mr. Wonka’s rules – or face the consequences.
Chattanooga Boys Choir Holiday Concert “Season of Light”
WHEN: Dec. 7
CONTACT: chattanoogaboyschoir.org or 423.634.2299
COST: Visit website for pricing and ticket information
The Chattanooga Boys Choir joins with the Chattanooga Youth Symphony and the Metropolitan Bells in presenting a program of holiday music that will inspire and enrich audiences of all ages this holiday season. With shows at 12 p.m. and 5 p.m., this year’s program offers songs on the theme of light, including traditional carols, new works, and contemporary favorites from a variety of traditions and influences, as well as a special highlight of holiday music from the 1950s,
commemorating the start of the CBC 70 years ago!
MAINx24
WHEN: Dec. 7
CONTACT: mainx24.com
COST: FREE, varies by event
Organized by Southside residents, merchants, and friends, this 24-hour-long festival features programming all day and night – from parades and live music to cook-offs, open houses, store discounts, crafts, and much more. A schedule of events can be found online.
Southern
Adventist Annual Christmas Concerts
WHEN: Dec. 7, 14
CONTACT: southern.edu/musicevents or 423.236.2880
COST: FREE
This year, Southern Adventist University’s School of Music announces a festive instrumental concert on Dec. 7 at 8 p.m. with performances by the Wind Symphony, Jazz Ensemble, and Steel Band in Iles P.E. Center on campus. Another concert is set for Dec. 14 at 4 p.m., including a sacred presentation by the university’s choral ensembles, Symphony Orchestra, and a cast of alumni soloists at Collegedale Church of Seventh-day Adventists. Come early to join the Southern Ringtones in sing-along carols with organ accompaniment.
(Top Left) Photo Courtesy of Tennessee Aquarium; (Bottom Right) Photo Courtesy of Ruby Falls
Holidays Under the Peaks
Ruby Falls Christmas
HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS
Chattanooga Holiday Market
WHEN: Dec. 7-8, 14-15
CONTACT: chattanoogamarket.com or 423.565.9130
COST: FREE
Over 200 local vendors will gather in the Chattanooga Convention Center for this annual holiday market, open on two separate weekends! With unique gifts ranging from pottery and art to festive food, locally made apparel, wood furniture, and more, there is a gift waiting for everyone on your list. Live holiday performances will also take place daily. The market is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturdays and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sundays. Also, on Dec. 15, get ready to see four local chefs compete with a mystery ingredient during the Lodge Cast Iron Cook-Off!
A Classic Christmas
WHEN: Dec. 8
CONTACT: leemusic.eventbrite.com or 423.614.8343
COST: FREE
Join Lee University for this beloved annual holiday tradition featuring the Lee University Symphony Orchestra, Choral Union, Chorale, and Ladies of Lee. This highly anticipated performance promises to be a delightful experience for the entire family. The event will take place from 3 to 4:30 p.m. in the Conn Center, with overflow seating and livestream viewing available. Tickets are required but free to reserve.
Chattanooga Ballet’s Land of Sweets at The Read House
WHEN: Dec. 8
CONTACT: chaballet.org/event-calendar
COST: $60/adults; $30/children Kick off the holidays with characters from Chattanooga Ballet’s Nutcracker for an unforgettable experience in The Read House Silver Ballroom! Enjoy the iconic setting while celebrating the magic of the holidays with friends and family from 2 to 4 p.m. Guests can expect children’s activities, professional photo opportunities, a theatrical reading of The Nutcracker, plenty of sweet treats, and more!
Christmas at Red Clay
WHEN: Dec. 8
CONTACT: tnstateparks.com/parks/red-clay or 423.478.0339
COST: $5
Education meets holiday fun in this
annual event at Red Clay State Park. Guests can experience Red Clay by the glow of lanterns during a lantern-lit guided tour, complete with sweet treats and traditions of the past. The program begins at 5: 30 p.m., and registration is required prior to the event on the state park’s events page.
Sunday Studios
WHEN: Dec. 8, 29
CONTACT: huntermuseum.org or 423.267.0968
COST: $20/adult; $18/senior; FREE/17 and under
Ring in the holiday season at the Hunter Museum of American Art. The whole family can take part in the holiday excitement as they create their own artwork and explore the museum. Activities include winter themed crafts, mixed media art-making, and a scavenger hunt. Performers from Ballet Esprit will share dances from the Nutcracker on Dec 8.
Holiday
Tea at the Houston Museum of Decorative Arts
WHEN: Dec. 8
CONTACT: thehoustonmuseum.org or 423.267.7176
COST: $55/adults; $35/children
During the restoration of the Houston Museum, this year’s holiday tea will be hosted in partnership with Bluff View Events at Renaissance Commons. Enjoy a traditional sit-down tea service catered by Bluff View Events, including scones, tea sandwiches, and dessert. Admission also
includes a guided tour of the Houston’s Pop Up Museum next door to the event and a 20% discount in the gift shop. Reservations for this all-ages event are required as seating is limited.
Lessons
and Carols
WHEN: Dec. 12
CONTACT: leemusic.eventbrite.com or 423.614.8343
COST: FREE
The Lee University School of Music, along with the School of Theology & Ministry, present this evening of lessons and carols in the Lee University Chapel from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. The service will interweave Scripture readings with beautiful Christmas music. Tickets are required but free to reserve online.
The Roueché Chorale and Orchestra: Chattanooga Candlelight Service of Lessons & Carols
WHEN: Dec. 12, 13
CONTACT: therouechechorale.org/ or 423.774.0317
COST: FREE
Get ready for the 22nd annual Chattanooga candlelight service of Lessons and Carols. Beginning at 7 p.m. at Brainerd United Methodist Church, this special holiday service is designed to tell the story of the birth of Jesus Christ through the reading of sacred Scripture with the inclusion of stirring Advent and Christmas music. A lighting of candles and congregational singing will round out this holiday family event.
Photo Courtesy of Lee University
Home for the Holidays
Southeastern Trust
Presents Chattanooga Ballet’s Nutcracker
WHEN: Dec. 13-15
CONTACT: tivolichattanooga.com or 423.757.5580 / chaballet.org or 423.265.0617
COST: $27.50 and up, varies by seating
Featuring Chattanooga Ballet’s professional company, the CSO performing live, and over 200 students from Chattanooga Ballet’s School, you won’t want to miss this timeless holiday tale performed at Memorial Auditorium. Celebrate the season with the whole family at Chattanooga’s cherished holiday tradition, The Nutcracker!
Chattanooga Girls Choir Winter Concert
WHEN: Dec. 14
CONTACT: chattanoogagirlschoir.org or 423.296.1006
COST: $15
Join the Chattanooga Girls Choir for this evening of traditional holiday music, pop standards, and reimagined favorites at Northside Presbyterian Church. The show will run from 7 to 8:30 p.m., and as is tradition, alumnae of the CGC will be invited on stage for the closing number, “Edelweiss.”
CSO First Horizon
Foundation Extras: Home for the Holidays
WHEN: Dec. 21, 22
CONTACT: chattsymphony.org or 423.267.8583
COST: $30-95, varies by seating
One of Chattanooga’s most treasured holiday events, Home for the Holidays is the perfect seasonal celebration for the whole family. The CSO will be joined by the CSO Chorus, a variety of community groups, and even the big man himself! Held at Memorial Auditorium, the whole family can enjoy the show on Dec. 21 at 7:30 p.m. and on Dec. 22 at 3 p.m.
Nutcracker!
Magical Christmas Ballet
WHEN: Dec. 23
CONTACT: tivolichattanooga.com or 423.757.5580
COST: $44.10 and up, varies by seating “NUTCRACKER! Magical Christmas Ballet” is a holiday tradition sure to delight! With larger-than-life puppets, incredible acrobatics, and fabulous hand-crafted sets and costumes, this nostalgic show is full of magic for the whole family. Show times are available at 12 p.m. and 4 p.m.
NEW YEAR’S EVENTS
New Years at Noon
WHEN: Dec 31
CONTACT: cdmfun.org/events or 423.756.2738
COST: Visit website for pricing. No need to stay up past bedtime to celebrate the New Year! Creative Discovery Museum is set to host a midday New Year’s celebration perfect for children and families. From 12 to 4 p.m., enjoy activities throughout the Museum and ring in CDM’s 30th birthday in 2025. And no New Year’s party would be complete without an apple juice toast and a dance party to celebrate 30 years of EPIC fun at Chattanooga’s favorite children’s museum!
Southern Belle New Year’s Eve on the River
WHEN: Dec. 31
CONTACT: chattanoogariverboat.com or 423.266.4488
COST: $159.95 per ticket
Ring in the New Year with hors d’oeuvres on Pier 2. This three-hour cruise will board at 8:30 p.m. to begin at 9 p.m., and the trip will include a DJ, pilothouse tours, charcuterie board and champagne per couple, and plenty of celebration for the New Year.
The Read House’s New Year’s Eve Roaring ‘20s Party
WHEN: Dec. 31
CONTACT: thereadhousehotel.com/holidays or 423.266.4121
COST: Visit website for pricing.
The Read House cordially invites you to its 2025 New Year’s Eve Roaring ‘20s Party!
The party package includes an open bar, live entertainment, a midnight champagne toast, late-night snacks, and a guest room for an overnight stay. Recover from the night’s excitement with a bloody mary or mimosa in Bar & Billiards on Jan. 1.
Photo Courtesy of Southern Belle
Southern Belle New Year’s Eve on the River
the GIFT of Luxury Special Gifts for This Year’s Holiday Season
Sophie’s Shoppe
sophiesshoppe.com
423.756.8711
Pricing available upon request. 1 3 4 5 2
401 North Market Street, Chattanooga, TN 37405
1/ Louisa Guild Jewelry: Inspired by nature and driven by sentiment, Louisa Guild Jewelry is made of brass, gold, semiprecious stones, and animal fossils, which showcase the value of their beautiful designs and materials.
2/ The Ultimate Kitchen Gift Box: A French tea towel, Oil+Vinegar cookbook, spice blends, gourmet olive oil blends, and cooking utensils.
3/ Andrea Davis Batik Art: Colorful and distinct art created by local artist Andrea Davis. Featuring a mix of styles, you’re sure to find a piece you love.
4/ Sophie’s Oils+Balsamics: The most amazing oils and balsamic sourced in Italy and Greece, curated by local founder Rachel Wanamaker.
5/ Holiday Candles & Diffusers: Our curated line of scented candles and diffusers are crafted with premium ingredients in small batches. All scents have been hand-picked to ensure a beautiful experience.
2/ 14k Raymond Mazza hinged chateau locket with fleur-de-lis motif and interchangeable stones on a textured cable chain
3/ 14k Raymond Mazza ring featuring opal and diamonds totaling 0.28 carats
4/ 14k ribbed link bracelet with 2.13 carats of diamonds
5/ 14k yellow gold C. Gonshor engagement ring featuring 8mm emerald-cut diamond with a double hidden halo totaling 1.57 carats
Pricing available upon request.
Photos by Kristina Armstrong
Locals Only Gifts & Goods
localsonlygiftsandgoods.com
423.541.4438
10 Frazier Avenue, Chattanooga, TN 37405
1/ Chattanooga’s Greatest Hits Gift Box: Good Fortune lotion, The Rustic House candle, Alchemy Spice Co. spice blend, Southern Spooning chocolate sauce, Belle chocolate bar, Hoff Sauce hot sauce, The Hot Chocolatier sipping chocolate, Harrison Bay honey
2/ BBQ Gift Box: Hoff Sauce barbecue sauce, Alchemy Spice Co. blend, Blister hot sauce, and Dr. K’s Shotgun Smoker
3/ Create Your Own Gift Box: Choose from products from over 100 local artists and artisans to fill your gift box. You can also provide them a budget and Locals Only will customize a gift box just for you!
Beautiful handmade ceramic nativity scene accented with 24k gold star. Made with love by Dixie Pottery of Canton, Georgia. Perfect for the holidays or to enjoy year-round. Available in assorted glazes. Small $48, large $78.
4/ 14k yellow gold earrings with round and emerald-cut diamonds totaling 0.50 carats
5/ 14k yellow gold quilted diamond band totaling 0.68 carats Pricing available upon request.
Markman’s
markmansdiamonds.com | 423.894.7581
Place
1/ 18k white gold Simon G. “Snowdrop” earrings featuring 1.16 carats of diamonds
2/ 18k white gold Supreme spinning necklace featuring 0.51 carats of diamonds
3/ 18k gold Simon G. ring featuring a 0.12-carat pear-shape emerald and 0.21 carats of pear-shape and round brilliant diamonds
4/ 18k DA Gold cuff bracelet featuring 2.50 carats of diamonds
5/ Oris Aquis ladies’ stainless steel dive watch featuring date display and mother of pearl face Pricing available upon request. GIVE THE GIFT
Photos by Kristina Armstrong
BIGGER & BETTER!
The 2025 Moth Ball® by CityScope® will be hosted at the First Horizon Pavilion. More space, more seating, no lines, easier parking, the list goes on!
THE MOTH BALL® BY CITYSCOPE® IS APRIL 24, 2025
CHATTANOOGA’S ULTIMATE GIRLS’ NIGHT OUT
Official Wine Sponsor: Athens Distributing
of Giving Back Making a Difference Through Local Charities
of Giving Back
Northside Neighborhood House
The Impact You’ll Make: For a century, the Northside Neighborhood House has been a beacon of hope for our neighbors north of the Tennessee River. By joining in their mission, your support goes beyond just today – it transforms lives for generations to come. Your generosity helps house families with essential utilities, empower individuals on their journey to stability, and shape the future through CommUNITY School programs. Together, we can continue building a stronger community. Learn more at nnhouse.org | 423.267.2217
The Impact You’ll Make: If Signal Centers is the home of fostering lifelong learning and independence in Chattanooga, Hart Gallery is its open front door. Inside, you’ll find nontraditional artists creating artwork to exhibit and sell, along with healing art therapy and community classes. The nonprofit program helps those living with mental and physical disabilities, experiencing homelessness, fleeing abusive situations, and many other underserved populations find their voice through art. Learn more at hartgallery.org
How to Donate:
Mail: 110 E. Main Street, Chattanooga, TN 37408 Online: hartgallery.org
of Giving Back
Erlanger Foundation
The Impact You’ll Make: Attendance or a corporate sponsorship of the Believe Bash, one of Chattanooga’s most anticipated annual fundraising galas, raises funds to support Erlanger’s essential programs and services. Previous Believe Bash events have aided in supporting projects such as the construction of the Kennedy Outpatient Center, the acquisition of life-saving medical equipment, and the enhancement of services at Erlanger hospitals. Last year’s event raised over $1 million. Support this year’s initiatives with the purchase of a package or sponsorship. Learn more at erlanger foundation.org/believe-bash
How to Donate: Online: erlangerfoundation.org/ believe-bash
Chattanooga Area Food Bank
The Impact You’ll Make: Food is a powerful thing. It has the power to change lives, to provide hope. With your help, we can provide these powerful meals for families, individuals, and seniors facing hunger in our communities this holiday season. We work with our vast partner network to deliver groceries right where they’re needed most, directly into communities across Southeast Tennessee and Northwest Georgia. For every $1, we can provide up to three meals for our neighbors. Learn more at chattfoodbank.org
How to Donate: Online: chattfoodbank.org Mail: 2009 Curtain Pole Road, Chattanooga, TN 37406
of Giving Back
Orange Grove Center
The Impact You’ll Make: Financial gifts to Orange Grove guarantee the success of their mission to recognize, support, and celebrate the qualities of the individual. Orange Grove’s goal is to maximize the opportunities each individual has to participate fully in every aspect of our community. Serving 1,000 people in Tennessee and North Georgia, Orange Grove’s person-centered programs are holistic in their approach to helping people with intellectual or developmental disabilities (IDD) build the lives they want to live. As a community, everyone’s lives are enriched by investing in the success of others. Learn more at orangegrove center.org | 423.629.1451
Celebrating 70+ years of person-centered, community-based services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
615 DERBY STREET CHATTANOOGA, TN 37404
423.629.1451
DEVELOPMENT@ORANGEGROVE.ORG
Goodwill
The Impact You’ll Make: Goodwill repurposes gently-used items for the good of the planet and for the good of the community. Whether you choose to donate items at your nearest Goodwill Donation Xpress Center or make a financial contribution online, your donations are used to fund training, education, and employment right here at home. When you choose to shop and donate with Goodwill, you choose to change lives. Learn more at goodwillchatt.org
How to Donate: Online: goodwillchatt.org/ financial-donation
The Generosity Trust
The Impact You’ll Make: The Generosity Trust is centered on empowering Christian generosity. The heart of their work is guiding and encouraging individuals along their personal journeys of generosity. This is done through four primary initiatives: donor-advised funds, simple, tax-advantageous ways to give to nonprofits and charities; building multi-generational generosity among families; connecting donors with community needs that align with their passions; and collaborating to meet the critical needs of the community. Learn more at thegenerositytrust.org
How to Donate: Online: thegenerositytrust.org Call: 423.266.5257
Un-Teal
The Impact You’ll Make:
One in 78 women is affected by ovarian cancer – now the fifth most common cause of cancer-related death among women in the United States. The Karen Collins “Un-Teal” There is a Cure fund was established in 2012 to promote ovarian cancer awareness and raise money for lifesaving research. All donations made to “Un-Teal” go directly to ovarian cancer research projects. Learn more at unteal.org
How to Donate: Online: unteal.org
of Giving Back
RiseUP Cooperative
The Impact You’ll Make: Currently, the RiseUP Cooperative is 100% private-donor funded, with your donations directly changing the lives of teenagers and young adults in your own community. The RiseUP Cooperative hosts life and leadership workshops, covering topics
CADAS
The Impact You’ll Make: For 60 years, CADAS has relied on a community of support from local businesses through event sponsorship and individual contributions. These play a vital role in the CADAS mission of saving the lives of those struggling with the disease of addiction, regardless of their ability to pay, because everyone deserves a chance to get their life back and make their families whole again. By supporting their cause, you can help offer hope and bring families back to together again. Learn more at cadas.org | 423.384.0735
How to Donate: Online: cadas.org Mail: 207 Spears Avenue, Chattanooga, TN 37405
Equipping and engaging teens and young adults with life and leadership skills to
Scan to support our mission!
Ticket includes Christopher Radko Ornament
of Giving Back
Momentum Network
The Impact You’ll Make: It truly takes a village. The Momentum Network seeks to connect, empower, and educate single mothers in the Chattanooga community. Your generous donations help the Momentum Network provide housing, childcare, and other essential resources that pregnant students and single mothers need as they earn a college degree. Join the Momentum Network as they walk hand-inhand with these women on their journey to empowerment. Learn more at momentumnetwork.org | 423.521.0071
How to Donate: Mail: P.O. Box 3458, Chattanooga, TN 37404 | Online: momentumnetwork.org/give
Public Education Foundation (PEF) of Chattanooga
PEF empowers students to turn dreams into reality. Your gift empowers their journey.
The Impact You’ll Make: For over three decades, PEF has put Hamilton County Schools first, ensuring that every student and teacher has the tools to succeed. By investing in PEF, you’re not just supporting education – you’re empowering the future. Your gift fuels innovation, strengthens classrooms, and transforms lives. If you believe in the power of public education to build a thriving, equitable society, there is no better way to make an impact. Learn more at pefchattanooga.org
How to Donate: Mail: 1651 S. Holtzclaw Avenue, Suite 201, Chattanooga, TN 37404 Online: pefchattanooga.org
of Giving Back
Kidney Foundation
The Impact You’ll Make: As the holiday season approaches, many kidney patients are living on a limited income, with access to renalfriendly foods being costly. Join the Kidney Foundation of Chattanooga in their annual campaign, AdoptA-Box, to help feed kidney patients and their families during the holidays. Your tax-deductible donation will spread holiday joy by delivering kidney-friendly foods, shopping lists, and meal ideas straight to a local patient’s doorstep, just in time for Christmas day. Learn more at kidneyfoundation.com
How to Donate:
Online: kidneyfoundation.com/ adoptabox
Phone: 423.265.4397
United Way of Greater Chattanooga
The Impact You’ll Make:
Every dollar given to United Way of Greater Chattanooga’s A Hand for Hope campaign provides direct relief to local families in need. Their 211 helpline connects neighbors in crisis to food, rent, utility assistance, and more. Just $5 a week keeps the lights on for a family, while $20 a week helps a family stay housed. With 44% of children in Hamilton County facing financial hardship, your support is crucial this season. Learn more at unitedwaycha.org/hope
The Impact You’ll Make: Your support makes an immediate impact on urgently needed health services for those in the greatest of need. Volunteers in Medicine, Chattanooga, has touched the lives of 80,000 uninsured neighbors since 2005. The value of the primary care provided by volunteers is greater than $28 million at clinic rates and $113 million at ER rates, costing nearly $11 million to VIM, along with $1 million annually for patients’ prescription assistance. Learn more at vim-chatt.org | 423.855.8220
How to Donate: Mail: P.O. Box 81057, Chattanooga, TN 37414 Online: vim-chatt.org/donate
Warrior Freedom Service Dogs
The Impact You’ll Make: Warrior Freedom Service Dogs gives the gift of life and reconnection to the American soldiers in our community. Your generous contributions change veterans’ lives by funding the training, care, and placement of highly-trained service dogs. These incredible dogs help veterans better cope with serviceinduced brain injuries, perform life-saving tasks, and offer veterans the freedom to reconnect with the communities they courageously defended. Learn more at warrior freedom.org | 415.377.3368
How to Donate: Mail: P.O. Box 31, Flintstone, GA 30725 | Online: warriorfreedom.org/donate
of Giving Back
Welcome Home of Chattanooga
The Impact You’ll Make: Welcome Home of Chattanooga believes no one should live or die without three essential needs – rest, shelter, and love. To support those facing serious illness or death, Welcome Home of Chattanooga partners with local agencies to provide in-home medical care and builds relationships with the residents to improve end-of-life care. Your support helps them create a community of hope, healing, and compassionate care for those who need it most. Learn more at welcomehomeof chattanooga.org | 423.355.5842
The Impact You’ll Make: The Moth Ball® by CityScope® is Chattanooga’s ultimate girls’ night out. Each year, the event benefits a different nonprofit in Hamilton County that supports women. A ticket to the Moth Ball® includes food, drinks, and a night filled with dancing to your favorite throwbacks. The 2025 beneficiary is Welcome Home of Chattanooga. Learn more at themothball.org
How to Donate: Online: themothball.org
OneTank Trips
‘Tis the season to be jolly, so grab your loved ones and spread some holiday cheer at festive events throughout the Southeast! These majestic winter wonderlands offer enchanting activities and celebrations for all. The best part? They’re only a short drive away.
Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas
Photo
LESS THAN 100 MILES FROM HOME:
Blue Ridge, GA
Blue Friday and Light Up Blue Ridge
WHEN: Nov. 29 – Nov. 30
WHERE: Downtown Blue Ridge
CONTACT: lightupblueridge.info or 706.258.8289
COST: FREE
Welcome in the Christmas season with Christmas tree lights and family fun in Downtown Blue Ridge. On Nov. 29, Blue Friday will include store discounts at downtown stores, food vendors, visits with Santa, and live entertainment from noon to 5 p.m. Light Up Blue Ridge will take place on Nov. 30, offering a variety of live entertainment, visits with Santa, a parade through downtown, and the Lighting of the Great Tree.
Blue Ridge Scenic Railway Holiday Express Train
WHEN: Nov. 29 – Dec. 24
WHERE: 241 Depot Street
CONTACT: brscenic.com/holiday-specialrides/ or 877.413.8724
COST: $54.99/adults; $42.99/children 2-12; FREE/children under 2
Climb aboard the Holiday Express for a festive one-hour train ride. Passengers will enjoy holiday music, a reading of “The Night Before Christmas,” and hot chocolate and snacks available for sale. Children will receive a Blue Ridge Scenic Railway jingle bell, a candy cane, and a chance to see Santa Claus.
Adairsville, GA
Light Up the Holidays at Barnsley Resort
WHEN: Nov. 27 – Jan.1
WHERE: Barnsley Resort
CONTACT: barnsleyresort.com or 770.773.7480
COST: $25/adults; $10/children 6-12; FREE/ children under 6
Over 1 million lights will illuminate the historic manor house ruins, gardens, and the entire Barnsley Resort Village for the holiday season. In addition, the resort offers several holiday-themed events, from gingerbread house and wreath crafting workshops to
Holiday LIGHTS at Cheekwood
visits with Santa and Christmas Eve/Day brunches and dinners. A special “Light Up the Holidays” offer is also available for those wishing to stay overnight.
LESS THAN 150 MILES FROM HOME:
Dahlonega, GA
Dahlonega’s Old Fashioned Christmas
WHEN: Nov. 29 – Jan. 7
WHERE: Downtown Dahlonega
CONTACT: dahlonegachristmas.com or info@ dahlonegachristmas.com
COST: FREE
Enjoy a full month of classic Christmas festivities in historic Dahlonega. The celebration begins on Nov. 29 with live music and the Lighting of the Square and Christmas tree. Visitors will also enjoy visiting Santa, food trucks, seasonal performances at the historic Holly Theater, as well as the Christmas Market on Dec. 6, 7, 13, and 14 and the Dahlonega Christmas Parade on Dec. 14.
Helen, GA
Helen’s Christmas Market
WHEN: Nov. 30 and Dec. 1, 7, 8
WHERE: Downtown Markt Platz and Unicoi Hill Park
CONTACT: helenchamber.com or 706.878.1619
COST: FREE
The Helen Chamber of Commerce will host its 17th Annual Helen’s Christmas Market over two weekends in 2024. Offering everything from unique gifts and decorations to an
assortment of savory and sweet foods, drinks, and candied treats, this event promises plenty of festive Alpine cheer in the center of Helen, Georgia.
Stone Mountain, GA
Stone Mountain Christmas
WHEN: Nov. 9 – Jan. 5, select dates
WHERE: Stone Mountain Park
CONTACT: stonemountainpark.com or 478.478.6686
COST: $39.99/adults; $34.99/children 3-11
Experience the wonder of the holiday season during Stone Mountain Christmas. Daytime attractions include the Summit Skyride and Scenic Railroad, and each evening, the park will dazzle with millions of lights. In addition, evening visitors will enjoy festive music, live performances, visits from some classic holiday characters, and a Christmas drone and light show.
Nashville, TN
Christmas at Gaylord Opryland
WHEN: Nov. 8 – Jan. 4
WHERE: Gaylord Opryland Resort
CONTACT: christmasatgaylordopryland.com or 615.889.1000
COST: Prices vary by event.
Christmas at Gaylord Opryland is a Nashville holiday tradition. Guests can explore acres of indoor and outdoor twinkling lights and enjoy holiday activities including ice tubing, gingerbread decorating, and visits with Santa. ICE!, the resort’s signature holiday attraction, will return this year for more winter magic featuring The Polar Express™ and over 2 million pounds of hand-carved ice sculptures.
Holiday LIGHTS at Cheekwood
WHEN: Nov. 22 – Jan. 5
WHERE: Cheekwood Estate & Gardens
CONTACT: cheekwood.org or 615.356.8000
COST: $26-$32/adults; $20-$26/youth; $16$22/member adult; $12-18/member youth; FREE/children 2 and under Holiday LIGHTS at Cheekwood is celebrating 10 years! Experience Nashville’s classic holiday tradition as you embark on a magical one-mile walk through Cheekwood’s gardens illuminated by more than a million lights. A delightful experience for all ages awaits, complete with s’mores, seasonal libations, and a Holiday Marketplace. Tour the Historic Mansion, specially decorated this year by former White House florist Laura Dowling.
LESS THAN 200 MILES FROM HOME:
Gatlinburg, TN
Snow Tubing at Ober Mountain
WHEN: Nov. 2 – Mar. 31, select dates
WHERE: Ober Mountain
CONTACT: obergatlinburg.com/snow-tubing/ or 865.436.5423
COST: $40/non-holidays; $45/Fridays, Saturdays, and holiday periods
Get ready for snow tubing at Ober Mountain!
Visitors will enjoy racing down a 350-foot long snowy hill with a 50-foot total drop. Offering 90-minute sessions with a “Magic Carpet” to take you back up the hill over and over again, this popular winter activity is perfect for the whole family. New unlimited snow tubing is now available on select days, and don’t forget ski season, beginning on Nov. 23!
Gatlinburg’s Festival of Trees
WHEN: Nov. 26 – Dec. 1
WHERE: W. L. Mills Conference Center
CONTACT: gatlinburgfestivaloftrees.com
COST: FREE
Gatlinburg’s Festival of Trees will ring in the holiday season with beautiful Christmas trees and family fun. The event will kick off with a Candy Canes and Cocktails Reception on the evening of Nov. 26. Presented by Hospitality Solutions, Inc., the festival begins daily at 10 a.m. and benefits the Gatlinburg Chamber of Commerce Foundation and the Boys & Girls Club of the Smoky Mountains.
Great Smoky Thanksgiving and Christmas Arts & Crafts Shows
WHEN: Nov. 26 – Dec. 8
WHERE: Gatlinburg Convention Center
CONTACT: greatsmokyartsandcrafts.com or 865.412.1012
COST: FREE
Find unique handcrafted gifts made by members of the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community at this annual show at the Gatlinburg Convention Center from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Handmade jewelry, pottery, woodcarvings, scented candles, bath and body products, photography, and hand-woven baskets are just a few of the offerings that await.
Gatlinburg’s Fantasy of Lights Christmas Parade
WHEN: Dec. 6
WHERE: Downtown Gatlinburg
CONTACT: gatlinburg.com or 865.436.4178
COST: FREE
This award-winning Christmas parade thrills spectators each year with lighted floats, marching bands, live music, balloons, Santa Claus, and more. The parade begins at 7:30 p.m. and goes through downtown Gatlinburg. Spectators are encouraged to wear Santa hats to spread the festive cheer.
New Year’s Eve Ball Drop & Fireworks Show
WHEN: Dec. 31
WHERE: Gatlinburg Space Needle
CONTACT: gatlinburg.com or 865.436.4178
COST: FREE
Ring in the New Year in downtown Gatlinburg at the 37th Annual New Year’s Eve Ball Drop and fireworks show. Newly added, festivalgoers can also view an exciting drone show lighting up the Smokies sky, beginning at 11:50 p.m. Festivities and live music will begin at 10 p.m. at the base of the Gatlinburg Space Needle, and visitors are encouraged to come early to take advantage of celebration offers with many local restaurants and businesses.
Pigeon Forge, TN
Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas
WHEN: Nov. 1 – Jan. 5
WHERE: Dollywood
dollywood.com or 800.365.5996
COST: Prices vary by event.
Dollywood’s award-winning Christmas festival is set to dazzle visitors with over 6 million lights, heartwarming holiday shows, and a chance to see Santa at work! While strolling through the park, visitors will enjoy classic holiday music and decorated trees in Santa’s Village, Glacier Ridge, and Craftsman’s Valley.
Light Up the Holidays at Barnsley Resort
Seasonal Selections
Canyon Grill
La Cabriole French Restaurant
CHEF’S CHOICE
“This
Baked FourCheese Pasta
– CHEF ALEXIS WEST
Thank You
Thank you so much for this incredible honor. Winning Best Overall Restaurant in CityScope® is a testament to the hard work, passion, and dedication of our entire team – from our management and Captains to everyone behind the scenes. We are beyond grateful to our loyal customers who voted for us. Thank you to CityScope® and to everyone who has supported us year after year. We’re excited to keep serving this amazing community!
– Owner, Johnny Holland
CanyonGrill.com to make Reservations & See What We’re Serving Tonight
Photo by Delve Studio
Beetroot and Smoked Salmon Carpaccio
Beets, zucchini, smoked salmon, edible flowers, chives, and capers
P lanning for the holidays ?
Reserve your holiday parties with us! Enjoy incredible French dishes, great company, and an intimate atmosphere. Authentic French Cuisine
“During the holidays, this dish brings a hint of freshness and lightness.”
Most Romantic: TIE: Alleia and St. John’s Restaurant
Most Knowledgeable Service: ......................................................... Easy Bistro & Bar
Place to Take the Whole Family: Boathouse Rotisserie & Raw Bar
Best Deal for Your Buck: Southern Star
Old Time Favorite: Tremont Tavern
Place to Take Out-of-Town Guests: Boathouse Rotisserie & Raw Bar
Dinner for Two at Canyon Grill
CityScope ® magazine draws a name from all readers submitting a Best Restaurant ballot, and the winner will receive dinner for two at the readers’ choice for best overall restaurant.
Congratulations to Sarah Pearson! She and a guest will enjoy dinner at Canyon Grill.
Holiday Blessings
The holiday season is a time when we reflect on our many blessings, and one of the most precious is the gift of a child. CityScope® magazine celebrates this gift of life with snapshots of area children celebrating the joy of the season.
JohnE, son of Makaylah Ariazi, marketing and communications manager at HHM, and John Ariazi, design specialist at Pinnacle Pools and Spas
Graham, son of Abbey and Matt McDonald, real estate team at The Group Real Estate Brokerage
Elisha and Garnet, children of Hadalie Naughton, regional client specialist lead at First Horizon Bank, and Bob Naughton, commercial relationship manager with Mountain Valley Bank
Monroe, daughter of Brittany Sirota Cooke, master lash artist at Key Med Aesthetics, and Steven Cooke, facility and safety leader at HMTX
Lena and Arya, granddaughters of Gayle O’Brien, real estate agent at The Group Real Estate Brokerage
Stella, daughter of Stefanie Wittler-Beavers, interim chief development officer for Erlanger Foundation, and Kevin Beavers, senior vice president at Transcard
Evan, son of Kelley Ridley, manager at Blowout Co., and Cody Ridley, general manager at The Designery
Maddie, Amelia, and Jackie, daughters of Tamara Slocum, senior graphic designer at CMC Publications, LLC, and Robert Slocum, delivery & courier driver at FedEx Express
Poppy and Hazel, daughters of Elizabeth Brody Vandeventer, jewelry consultant at Brody Jewelers, and Jay Vandeventer, sales consultant at Acura of Chattanooga
Paisley and Jace, grandchildren of Petra Green, vice president of patient care services and nursing operations at CHI Memorial, and Thomas Green, retiree
The concept of a “cat café,” where guests can sip a cup of coffee while visiting with cats, took off in East Asia in the early 2000s and has since spread across the globe. Cat cafés are popular tourist destinations, a fun activity for locals, and a creative model for facilitating pet adoption. “There are over 500 cat cafés around the world, and as crazy cat people we have been to over 80 of them across four continents,” the owners share. “We were familiar with the idea and its proof of being a very effective mechanism of getting shelter cats adopted.” Naughty Cat Cafe houses over 30 adoptable adult cats, and to date they have adopted out nearly 1,300 cats to loving homes.
The lounge at Naughty Cat Cafe offers a safe and relaxing environment for the cats to roam, play, and feel at home until they find their forever home. Cats tend to get a bad rap about being antisocial creatures, but realistically they need socialization just like any other animal. “This model addresses some of the limitations of traditional shelter environments, where cats may be stressed or unable to showcase their true personalities,” says Heath and Whitney. “Visitors can spend time observing and bonding with cats, allowing for better-informed adoption decisions.”
Whether or not visitors plan to adopt, they can look forward to a cozy and inviting experience in the expansive cat lounge amidst the plush seating areas, ambient lighting, and cat-centric artwork all around. Guests can reserve an hour in the lounge for a small fee that directly ensures these cats have the best foster home possible. A complimentary non-alcoholic beverage is included – such as locally-roasted organic coffee – or guests can purchase from a variety of local craft brews and pre-packaged snacks. A capacity limit of 14 people per hour ensures that neither the cats nor guests get overwhelmed.
For the safety of all humans and cats, several guidelines and visiting age requirements are in place to ensure the best experience at Naughty Cat Cafe, all of which are detailed on their website. For these small business owners, “Consistency, transparency, and accountability rule the day. It’s just the two of us, seven days a week, to ensure 100% quality in every instance. We treat our guests like royalty and we treat the cats even better.”
“Cattanooga” is more than a catchy moniker – it reflects a diverse community committed to serving the local cat population. Naughty Cat Cafe gives 100% of the adoption fees to partner shelters, and since opening in 2019, they have generated over $50,000 in donations for these partners in addition to $130,000 in adoption revenue. Despite these successes, Heath and Whitney add, “We cannot adopt our way out of the pet overpopulation problem. If you are unable to visit the café but still want to help, assisting out local TNR (Trap-Neuter-Return) groups like SCRATCH, Inc., or Chattanooga Feral Cat Alliance is most needed.”
The café’s sustainable model and playful branding has garnered a devoted following, including visitors who travel from far and wide to Cattanooga’s own cat café. Heath estimates that about 90% of the visitors are from out of town, which in turn keeps the doors open for locals who can give these cats forever homes. The owners share one memory of guests revealing matching tattoos of the Naughty Cat logo they’d gotten to commemorate their favorite place.
Heath and Whitney add, “We would like to thank everyone in the Cattanooga community for their unwavering support these past six years. All of you who have supported these cats by adopting and visiting the café have helped ensure this space will be here for many more years to come!”
THE SPIRITS OF THE
There’s no feeling quite like cozying up to the fire with a glass of whiskey, sipping bubbly at a holiday brunch, or sharing a meal and a glass of wine with friends and family. Here, we share four cozy winter sips to enjoy all season long.
Robert Biale Black Chicken Zinfandel
As an homage to a 1940s bootleg Zinfandel wine that could only be ordered with the password, “black chicken,” this beautiful Napa Valley Zinfandel is perfect for your holiday table. Cherry and berry combine with clove and balsam on the nose, and are completed by plum compote, violets, and baking spice on the palate. Pair it with a charcuterie board filled with robust cheeses, a hearty Bolognese pasta, or grilled shrimp skewers.
Jack Daniels Tennessee Fire
For those who are fans of Jack Daniels, their Tennessee Fire whiskey is all you need to spice up your holiday party. To make Tennessee Fire, Jack Daniels is blended with cinnamon liqueur for a fun spin on a classic spirit. The possibilities are endless –try a chilled shot, mix it into a boozy hot chocolate, or add it into apple cider for extra cinnamony goodness.
Force and Grace Carneros Chardonnay
Founded by vintner Joseph Carr of Josh Cellars, Force and Grace wines showcase the best wines of the Napa Valley. Grapes for Carneros are sourced from the Carneros AVA, where Chardonnay grapes thrive in the foggy, breezy climate. This oakaged wine has hints of apple, melon, and sweet citrus, with a balanced acidity.
Roederer Estate Brut
No holiday gathering is complete without a bottle of bubbly. Enjoy this offering from Roederer Estate, which is made from a blend of Chardonnay and Pinor Noir varietals, and boasts complex pear, spice, and hazelnut flavors. Described as “dynamic yet sleekly elegant,” by Wine Spectator, this bottle is perfect for hosting or gifting.
[ LAST LOOK ] WINTER
“Winter is not a season, it’s a celebration.”
– Anamika Mishra
PHOTO COURTESY OF ROCK CITY
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