Get ready for a whole new way to experience sports in the Scenic City. | Photo by NOOGAtoday
We know just the spot for some outdoor sports, folks. River City Co. has announced a pop-up sports experience on the Riverfront — SportSpot.
As a way to test the design plans drafted for the “Evolving our Riverfront Parks” project + garner community feedback, a temporary recreation space will be created under the Olgiati Bridge starting on Friday, Sept. 6.
“The next step in the planning process is to create design documents, so it is very important for us to hear more from the community on how spaces could function in the future,” said River City Co. President + CEO Emily Mack.
SportSpot will run through Sunday, Oct. 20, operating daily from 9 a.m. to sunset, bringing free activities to residents. A few things you can expect include:
Two pickleball courts in September (equipment provided)
Two basketball courts in October (equipment provided)
Roller rink by Dazey Skate Co. (bring your own skates or go during the scheduled workshop for free skate rentals)
Before heading out to SportSpot, some major need-to-know rules are:
All activities require waivers to be signed by participants + guardians (for those under 18).
Pets + smoking are not allowed.
Bikes are only allowed on the pump track.
The experience will close for two weeks from Sunday, Sept. 22 through Thursday, Oct. 3 + the schedule is subject to change as events are added. Keep an eye out for senior days, inclusive play days + other programming. Bonus: If you want to organize your own event, inquire via email.
Weed Wrangle | Wednesday, Sept. 4 | 9 a.m. | Reflection Riding Arboretum & Nature Center | Free, RSVP | Learn how to manage and remove invasive plants with the center’s Land Conversation Team — wear protective clothing + bring water and sunscreen.
Thursday, Sept. 5
Try Exercise | Thursday, Sept. 5 | 3-3:45 p.m. | Chattanooga Fitness Center | Free | Learn how to set up equipment, target certain muscles, reach your goals + stay active.
Duckhorn Vineyards Wine Dinner | Thursday, Sept. 5 | 6:30 p.m. | The Read House | $150 | Get an elevated dining experience with a curated five-course meal to pair with the wines of the evening.
Friday, Sept. 6
Food Truck Friday | Friday, Sept. 6 | 11 a.m.-3 p.m. | Kitchen Incubator of Chattanooga | Free+ | Come out for a sizzling showdown to see who can create the most delicious + unique hotdog creations.
Saturday, Sept. 7
Authors Fair | Saturday, Sept. 7 | 10 a.m.-4 p.m. | Downtown Branch, Chattanooga Public Library | Free+ | Walk around to local authors’ tables + hear from keynote speakers at this annual event.
Farewell to Summer | Saturday, Sept. 7 | 10 a.m.-5 p.m. | Tennessee River Park | Free+ | Woohoo, big summer blowout — close out the season with a local vendor market.
After a two-month nationwide search, Chattanooga Mayor Tim Kelly has appointed John Chambers as the new chief of police. Chambers currently serves as CPD’s assistant chief + now awaits final approval from City Council this month before being promoted. (Local 3)
Civic
September marks National Voter Registration Month + we’re here to remind you the last day to register to vote in the 2024 Presidential Election is Monday, Oct. 7. Fill out your form online — early voting begins Wednesday, Oct. 16.
Biz
Local owner Ella Livingston of Cocoa Asante was recently honored by the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development for National Black Business Month. The premium chocolate company was one of nine businesses across the state to receive recognition.
Community
Did you attend this year’s Riverfront Nights season? If so, Friends of the Festival wants to hear about your experience through an online survey. Feedback collected will be used to gauge what audiences would like to see from the festival in the future.
Cause
Local nonprofit Chattanooga Room in the Inn has launched its Aftercare Program. To maintain stability and the success of those in its care, this program will provide support + services to clients for a full year after moving into permanent housing. Think: Children’s services, mental health support, career development, etc.
Network
In other nonprofit news, leaders are invited to join Market Street Partners during its Connect+ Chattanooga event on Tuesday, Sept. 24 at the Chattanooga Whiskey Event Hall. Attendees will discuss accounting and industry updates with Chattanooga and Atlanta accountants. RSVP online.
History
The Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park will soon celebrate the 161st anniversary of the Battle of Chickamauga. On select days starting Saturday, Sept. 14, you can enjoy educational programming like ranger-guided tours, presentations, and in-depth battle hikes.
Plan Ahead
Lace up your boots and get ready to join Saint Nick during the Run Santa Run holiday race series that will take over the Riverpark on Sunday, Dec. 8. Register online to participate in a half marathon, 5K + 10K.
Finance
It’s almost fall — that chill you feel should be from the air, not your credit card bill. Experts recommend these four cards with 0% APR for up to 18 months (almost two years) on qualifying balance transfers.*
Good Fortune’s Refresh Lotion (tangerine spearmint Litsea cubeba), Chei-Man Tea, Alchemy Spice Co.'s Herbs de Provence oil infusion bottle, a Lauren Maxwell mug, Dr. Know’s Chill Pill CBD dog treats + a Chattanooga magnet.
I would gift this box to someone who loves a relaxing evening with a warm cup of tea and home-cooked meal — there’s even something for their pup.
City Editor Kristen’s box
Mad Priest Coffee Roaster’s Sloth Dispelling breakfast blend, Belle Chocolates Bolivia 80% bar, Clumpie’s Ice Cream Co.'s salted caramel sauce, Hoff & Pepper’s Mean Green sauce, The Rustic House candle (grapefruit + jambu), and a Chattanooga mug from Forman Pottery.
I would gift this box to someone who loves their morning coffee + enjoys sweet and spicy treats.
It looks like Everett the warthog might be the star of the Chattanooga Zoo’s Cape of Africa exhibit —according to 31.7% of those who took our recent poll asking which animals you were most excited to see. Missed the news? Check out his new digs.
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