By 2055, the tri-state area’s population is projected to increase by half a million people — here’s how folks plan to ensure the protection of the natural landscape. | Photo by Steadfast Images via Chattanooga Tourism Co.
If you’re looking for another term for Greater Chattanooga area, think: the Cradle of Southern Appalachia. In a new initiative of conservation, Thrive Regional Partnership’s Natural Treasures Alliance has created a blueprint for its future.
The regions? The Cradle spans across Southeast Tennessee, Northwest Georgia + Northeast Alabama. The why? To double the amount of protected land — which is currently at 15% — to preserve one million acres by 2055. Let’s dive into what makes some of Chattanooga’s natural areas so special.
Walden’s Ridge
The 80-mile plateau is inhabited by black bears, the threatened wildflower Largeflower Skullcap + is the only habitat on the planet for the laurel dace fish. Bonus: See how far it’s come over the years.
Lookout + Pigeon Mountains
Outside of being some of Chattanooga’s prominent landmarks, the mountains are home to the endangered gray bat + rare carnivorous pitcher plants.
Hiwassee River Corridor
Known as the State Scenic River, this area contains at least 42 species of plants + fish. You’ve probably also seen thousands of sandhill cranes during their migration season.
Wanting to be a part of this effort? Inquire via email to join the Natural Treasures Alliance.
Money.com’s car insurance comparison tool could save you up to 19%. | Photo via Shutterstock
There’s a lot we don’t know. But we do know that “15 minutes could save you 15% or more” by switching car insurance providers.
Why? This marketing campaign works because the numbers speak for themselves — and the claim is true.
Comparing car insurance really can save you 10% to 19% more money. And Money.com has an easy-to-use (and free) car insurance tool to help you find providers in Chattanooga. Check it out.
Pickles are flying, and grounds are breaking this week over on South Lyerly Street. Construction of The Flying Pickle, a 46,000-sqft sporting facility dedicated to pickleball, has begun + is projected to open next September. Wanting to play a game now? Check out these spots. (WDEF)
Opening
Mad Priest Coffee Roasters is following suit of the changing seasons and officially saying goodbye to its Broad Street location — and hello to McCallie Avenue. Spend some time at both spots on Saturday, Oct. 4 for a grand opening feast + goodbye party.
Environment
The Chattanooga Tree Project has been busy since we announced its launch in April. This fall, project members will plant up to 500 trees in Ridgedale to improve the area’s air quality, tree canopy + provide more shade. Sign up for a planting day.
Shop
The Missionary Ridge Neighborhood Association + Missionary Ridge Garden Club will host its estate sale tomorrow at 36 Sheridan Rd. Stop by from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. to sort through lost treasures — get a sneak peek.
Quoted
“These 10 honorees represent the excellence, commitment, and care that make early learning possible,” said Blair Taylor, CEO of Tennesseans for Quality Early Education. That’s why Children’s Academy for Education and Learning’s Tyroneshia Jordan was surprised with the TN Early Educator of the Year award.
List
Curious about recent achievements made in the local preservation world? Preserve Chattanooga recently recognized several buildings that have made impressive strides, from turning the Chattanooga Bank Building into a new Waymark Hotel to White Duck Taco’s investment downtown.
Plan Ahead
Early birds get to pedal to the metal, or however the saying goes. Early bird registration for the annual TN Bike Walk Summit ends on Tuesday, Sept. 30. The November summit will feature keynote speaker + Chattanoogan Jon Jon Wesolowski, known as “the happy urbanist.”
Shop
At Warby Parker, every pair of glasses starts at $95. Pick your perfect pair and experience eye care that’s simple, convenient, and delightful.*
Category
Festival
🎻 Legend says 3 sisters bring the bluegrass
We’re talking seeing award-winning musicians — for free. | Photo by @jesserhunter
The grass is bluer over at Ross’s Landing. The 3 Sisters Bluegrass Festival returns for its 18th year on Friday, Oct. 3 + Saturday, Oct. 4.
Folks can gather together to listen to performances by contemporary + traditional bluegrass musicians free of charge. Ready to sit back and listen to some tunes? Here’s who’s headlining each day:
Friday | The Travelin’ McCourys | Formed out of the Del McCoury Band in 2009, this band of brothers hails from Nashville + won the 2019 “Best Bluegrass Album” Grammy Award
Saturday | The Brothers Comatose | West Coast five-piece band featuring two brothers + returning headliner
Know before you go
The festival is rain or shine, so plan accordingly.
No outside food or drink (over 18 food trucks will be on-site to grab a bite).
Bring your own blankets or lawn chairs.
Wheelchair seating will be available near the stage.
Leashed pups can join the party.
Parking is available nearby (street, lot + garage) and the free shuttle will run until 11 p.m.
Swap this summer’s top trending beaded bags for something a little more seasonally appropriate: rich hues of leather + luxurious suede. These are our top five bags for fall:
👜 We’re calling it now: This softly-brushed, chocolate-hued suede purse will be the bag of the season.
👜 Lucky Brand’s full-grain leather mini tote features top handles and a removable crossbody strap for added versatility.
👜 Level up any autumn outfit with this elegant satchel bag that’s on sale for under $40.
👜 This stadium-approved clear handbag is the perfect game day accessory.
👜 Luxuriously soft handfeel and rugged durability are two standout features of this fun heart-shaped leather purse.
The fun doesn’t have to end here. After reading the newsletter, head over to our games page. Games refresh with new challenges every day at 6 a.m. from crossword puzzle to Sudoku to themed word search.
