CityScope Magazine Annual Southern Gentleman Issue 2026

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SOUTHERN GENTLEMAN® 2026

F E AT U R I N G S P O R T S & O U T D O O R S / F O O D & S P I R I T S / L I F E S T Y L E & A T T I R E

EXPERIENCE D R EA M

The

STORE HOURS FRIDAY, SATURDAY, & MONDAY 10 AM – 8PM SUNDAY 12PM – 6PM THURSDAY 10AM - 5PM TUESDAY – WEDNESDAY BY APPOINTMENT

The Newest Addition, 5090 Outdoor

DISCOVER 5090 SOUTH, THE FURNITURE STORE

Immerse yourself in the truly unique experience that is 5090 Outdoor, where the beauty of nature harmoniously blends with premium outdoor furnishings. Our outdoor deck, overlooking the serene Spring Creek, offers a tranquil setting that will inspire your outdoor living dreams. Admire our lush landscape in full bloom while enjoying a round of golf on our custom putting green. As the sun sets, our collection of fire pits will blaze, keeping you warm as you build the patio of your dreams.

At 5090 South, we’re more than just a furniture store – we’re a destination of style, sophistication, and inspiration. Stop by our showroom and step foot into a world where design meets desire, and where your dream home comes to life.

DESIGN YOUR DREAMS WITH THE 5090 DESIGN CENTER The 5090 Design Center is your gateway to a world of endless possibilities. Our team of talented designers is here to turn your vision into a reality. With expertise and an exquisite array of highquality product lines, you can create a living space that reflects your unique style. Customize every piece by choosing from an extensive collection of fabrics, textures, and finishes to craft a look that’s exclusively yours.

5090 South Terrace, Chattanooga, TN 37412 423-468-5090 | 5090SOUTH.COM

Photographed at Ruby Falls

A convergence of financial knowledge and capabilities. Right here in Chattanooga. 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 • Chattanooga, TN 37421 Downtown Office, by appointment only: Warehouse Row • 1110 Market Street, Suite 210 • Chattanooga, TN 37402 www.RoundTableAdvisors.com • 877-770-0009 • 423-510-8889

Back row from left to right: Evan Russell, Financial Advisor // Austin Cone, CFP® // Andy Burnett, CFA // Dennis Wolfe, CPA, CFP® Tony D’Andrea, CPA, CFP® // Front row from left to right: Briana Hazelwood, Client Svc. Assoc. // Wendy Railey, Client Svc. Assoc. Julie Elsea, CLTC® // Amy Bee, Client Svc. Mgr. // Lisa Listecki, Ops. Mgr. // Not Pictured: Mary Dinsmore, Office Coordinator

Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc. member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advisory services are offered through Raymond James Financial Services Advisors, Inc. Round Table Advisors is not a registered broker/ dealer and is independent of Raymond James Financial Services.

11 ACRES

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$18M

$2.975M SOLD

BAT TERY PL ACE

$1.975M

423-499-9999 • chattanoogalistings.com

MICHAEL B. JORDAN

CHEVRON

Perched atop Lookout Mountain, Georgia, Cloudland at McLemore Resort feels worlds away, yet is only minutes from Chattanooga. Slip away for the day or settle in for an indulgent stay with destination dining, restorative spa experiences, and 36 holes of award winning golf at The Highlands and The Keep. Visit McLemoreResort.com or call 800-329-8154 to learn more..

Publisher's Letter “I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” – Maya Angelou

There is something special about the South that is difficult to put into words. For many of us, it is found in the values we were raised with: strong morals, faith, generosity, respect for our neighbors, and a genuine belief in looking out for one another. It’s found in homecooked meals shared around the table and the simple tradition of caring for the people around us. Our region is unique in that it offers not only those timeless values, but also stunning scenery, four beautiful seasons, and endless opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. In this year’s Annual Southern Gentleman® Issue of CityScope® magazine, we celebrate the many things that make the South so special, told through the eyes of local gentlemen. Leading off, in the Sports & Outdoors section, we take to the skies with four local pilots and their planes, hit the roads with competitive cyclists, and go behind the scenes with the men who keep Chattanooga’s parks and trails running. Finally, in the reader-favorite “Man’s Best Friend,” we meet hunting dogs and the men who share their adventures with them. Next up, in the Lifestyle section, you’ll meet fiber artists perfecting their craft, as well as four local men who share the experiences and values that have guided them to where they are today in “The Making of a Gentleman.” We’ll also tour unique garage spaces, explore Southern-style homes currently on the market,

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meet fashion collectors, and spotlight the friendships and camaraderie that bring men together in “In Good Company.” One of the best parts of the South, in my humble opinion, is the food. In the Food & Spirits section, you’ll find burgers with a twist, comfort food recipes, and a look inside a custom kitchen and the essentials fit for a chef. We’ll also raise a glass with “Wine Tasting 101.” Style closes out the issue with “Curated Colors,” highlighting elevated attire, along with essential accessories every gentleman should have. We hope this issue creates a sense of pride in this place we get to call home and encourages you to take a break, read a magazine, and take a moment to reflect on the many things that make our area a wonderful place to live.

Happy reading,

Cailey Mullinix Easterly Co-Publisher P.S. Follow CityScope® and HealthScope® magazines and Choose Chattanooga® – Chattanooga Resource & Relocation Guide® on social media!

Leaders in the Fight Against Breast Cancer

When it comes to your breast health, you want the most advanced care available. Our team is proud to have the region’s only fellowship-trained, female breast surgeons. Along with the clinic’s nurse practitioners, they provide comprehensive, personalized care spanning prevention, screening, diagnosis, treatment and survivorship. CommonSpirit Medical Group - Breast Care Chattanooga 605 Glenwood Drive, Suite 105

Ooltewah 6401 Mountain View Road, Suite 101

Hixson 2051 Hamill Road, Suite 2000

Ringgold 4700 Battlefield Parkway, Suite 360

Appointments: (423) 698-0304 Learn more at CommonSpirit.org

Tajuana Prater, FNP-C Family Nurse Practitioner

Angela Reich, WHNP-BC Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner

Aparajita Spencer, MD Breast Surgical Oncologist Fellowship-trained

Betsy Washburn, MD Breast Surgical Oncologist Fellowship-trained

Casey Waddle, FNP-C Family Nurse Practitioner

VOLUME 34, ISSUE 2 • SOUTHERN GENTLEMAN® 2026

Contents

Sports & Outdoors 24 34 46 58

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In Full Flight

Flying High With Area Pilots

Pedaling Onward

Competitive Cyclists Share Their Love for the Sport

Keeping Recreation Running

Six Men Stewarding the Scenic City

Man’s Best Friend

Local Hunters & Their Loyal Companions

THINK REAL ESTATE. THINK

RO BIN SON T EA M. CO M

D 42 423-3 3-30 044-611 611 4

O 423 42 3-6 -664 64-1 -1900 900

EACH KELLER WILLIAMS OFFICE IS INDEPENDENTLY OWNED AND OPERATED.

Contents Lifestyle 72

82

Perfecting a Craft

Trade Talk With Talented Fiber Artists

The Making of a Gentleman

Guiding Values Discussed by Local Gentlemen

90

Garage Kings

Refined Spaces Designed for Relaxing

100 Southern-Style Homes

Homes & Properties That Embrace Southern Lifestyles

106 Fashionable Fellas

Four Men Discuss Their Fashion Collections

116 In Good Company The Heart Behind Five Local Men’s Groups

Food & Spirits 124 Burgers With a Twist

Creative Takes on a Classic Dish

135 Fit for a Chef

Kitchen Designs and Must-Have Tools for Southern Gentlemen

142 Serving Up Comfort

Locals Share Their Favorite Comfort Foods

148 Wine Tasting 101

Everything You Need to Know

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Contents

Style 156 Curated Colors

Showcasing Sophisticated Styles

164 Elevated Essentials

Refined Products From Local Retailers

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Southern Gentleman® VOLUME 34 • ISSUE 2 • 2026

Co-Publisher

Cailey Mullinix Easterly

Sales & Business Development

Amanda Worley

Sales & New Business Development

Meredith Baker

Design Lead, Sr. Graphic Designer

Lauren Robinson

Sr. Graphic Designer

Tamara Slocum

Managing Editor

Rachel Studebaker

Editors/Digital Content Specialists

Abby Callahan Lindsey Clute Ali Lemmons

Contributing Writer/Editor

Kristen Dee

Digital Marketing Manager

Houston McLain

Marketing, Events, & Operations

Lauren Perry

Photographers Anh Bao Tran-Le Final Flash Productions Kristina Armstrong Steadfast Images TriStar Visuals

Creative Revolver Hacker Medias Rich Smith Tall Tails Media

To receive advertising information, change your mailing address, or share your views on editorial: Call 423.266.3440 or visit cityscopemag.com or healthscopemag.com and click “Contact.” CityScope® and HealthScope® magazines, Choose Chattanooga® – Chattanooga Resource & Relocation Guide®, and Choose Huntsville® – Huntsville Resource & Relocation Guide® (the magazines) are published by CMC Media & Marketing Group, 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 (including photos and other visuals) are the responsibility of the respective advertiser. CMC Media & Marketing Group, LLC, cannot and does not assume responsibility for any material contained within or associated with any advertisement.

Departments A Perfect Fit

How to Select a Running Shoe

114 Ask the Gentleman

Etiquette & Style for the Modern Gent

140 Finding New Flavors

Four Cookbook Recommendations

162 Beard Care Basics

CityScope® magazine Copyright, CMC Media & Marketing Group, LLC, 1993 CityScope® magazine is a registered trademark owned by CMC Media & Marketing Group, LLC.

A Guide to Beard Grooming

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CityScope® magazine Southern Gentleman® is a registered trademark owned by CMC Media & Marketing Group, LLC. HealthScope® magazine Copyright, CMC Media & Marketing Group, LLC, 1989 HealthScope® magazine is a registered trademark owned by CMC Media & Marketing Group, LLC.

On the Cover: Meet Goose – Jeff Zierenberg’s loyal companion – and more local hunting dogs and their owners on page 58.

Choose Chattanooga® – Chattanooga Resource & Relocation Guide® Copyright, CMC Media & Marketing Group, LLC, 2011 Choose Chatt® Copyright, CMC Media & Marketing Group, LLC, 2026

Photo by Tall Tails Media

SOUTHERN GENTLEMAN® 2026

F E AT U R I N G S P O R T S & O U T D O O R S / F O O D & S P I R I T S / L I F E S T Y L E & A T T I R E

18 • C I T Y S C O P E M A G . C O M

George Mullinix

Subscribe to CityScope® or HealthScope® magazines: Call 423.266.3440 or visit cityscopemag.com or healthscopemag.com and click “Subscribe.”

Contents

44

Publisher

Choose Chattanooga®, Chattanooga Resource & Relocation Guide®, and Choose Chatt® are registered trademarks owned by CMC Media & Marketing Group, LLC. Chatt Choices™ is a trademark claimed by CMC Media & Marketing Group, LLC. Choose Huntsville® – Huntsville Resource & Relocation Guide® Copyright, CMC Media & Marketing Group, LLC, 2026 Choose Huntsville® and Huntsville Resource & Relocation Guide® are registered trademarks owned by CMC Media & Marketing Group, LLC.

BRINGING VIBRANT, UNIQUE COMMUNITIES TO CHATTANOOGA.

3 & 4 Bedroom Townhomes Boutique Living & Premium Amenities Historic Southside Chattanooga

1, 2 & 3 Bedroom Flats Steps to Main Street Design Packages & Secure, Gated Parking Historic Southside Chattanooga

4 Bedroom Townhomes Gated Community Minutes From Interstate New in East Brainerd

50+ Years of Chattanooga Real Estate Experience Buying | Selling | Urban Development New Construction | Leasing | Commercial

423.667.5922 c. 423.265.0088 o. RyanMayHomes.com

A MAN’S HEALTH IS ONLY AS STRONG AS HIS CIRCULATION. Your heart gets the attention. Your arteries, veins and legs deserve it, too. Vascular disease can affect how you walk, work, exercise, perform - and ultimately, how long you stay independent.

For men, vascular health isn't just about the heart. It's about every mile ahead.

THE NUMBERS MEN SHOULD KNOW

53.7%

of U.S. males age 20+ have some form of cardiovascular disease.1

51.6%

of U.S. males age 20+ have high blood pressure.2

6.5M+

Americans age 40+ have peripheral artery disease (PAD).3

400 ~ amputations every day in the U.S. are attributed to PAD.4

Don’t just live longer. Live stronger. Sources: 1. American Heart Association. 2026 Heart Disease & Stroke Statistics. 2. CDC. National Center for Health Statistics. 3. CDC. Peripheral Artery Disease. 4. Society for Vascular Surgery, 2026.

THE WARNING SIGNS MAY BE IN YOUR LEGS. Vascular disease doesn't always announce itself with chest pain.

PAIN WHEN YOU WALK

WOUNDS THAT WON'T HEAL

COLD OR NUMB FEET

COLOR OR SKIN CHANGES

Cramping or aching that improves with rest.

Sores on the foot or leg deserve attention.

Especially one foot colder than the other.

Pale, bluish, shiny skin or loss of hair can be warning signs.

ONE PRACTICE. THE FULL VASCULAR PICTURE. At Vascular Institute of Chattanooga, we treat the entire vascular system.

ARTERIAL

VENOUS

• Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) • Critical Limb Ischemia (CLI) • Carotid Disease • Aneurysms • Dialysis Access

• Varicose Veins • Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI) • Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) • May-Thurner Syndrome • Pelvic Venous Disease

WHEN CIRCULATION MATTERS, EXPERIENCE MATTERS. VIC is the region's vascular team focused on keeping patients moving — and keeping limbs attached.

97.4%

Limb-Salvage Rate

7

Locations

3

Outpatient Surgical Centers

Regional Critical Limb Center of Excellence

Nationally Recognized and Trusted Vascular Surgeons. Board-Certified, Fellowship-Trained Vascular Surgeons. Fellows of the American College of Surgeons (FACS). Leaders in Vascular Ultrasound (RPVI®, RVT®). Hosts of the FACES of PAD Conference. DR. FRANCIS CUOZZO, MD, FACS, RPVI DR. CHRIS LESAR, MD, FACS, RVT DR. WILLIAM HARRIS, DO, FACS, RPVI

APPOINTMENTS IN 1-3 DAYS.

NO REFERRAL REQUIRED. EMERGENCY (STAT) CONDITIONS SEEN WITHIN 24 HOURS.

Saving Limbs. Restoring Lives. vascularinstituteofchattanooga.com | 423.602.2750 C H AT TA N O O G A | C L E V E L A N D | N O R T H G E O R G I A | J A S P E R | D AY T O N | H I X S O N

Frame Your Feature Featured in CityScope®? Frame it for your office, to gift to a loved one, or for a keepsake for years to come!

Fully customized options for frame size, orientation and color, protective glass type, and mat color.

To order, contact us: laurenp@cmcmmg.com 423.266.3440

SPORTS & OUTDOORS “OF ALL THE PATHS YOU TAKE IN LIFE, MAKE SURE A FEW OF THEM ARE DIRT.” – JOHN MUIR

PHOTO BY TALL TAILS MEDIA

CITYSCOPEMAG.COM •

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In Full Flight Pilots experience the world from a distinctly different perspective. From up above, limits fall away, adventure awaits, and peace abounds for those who dare to seek it. Read on to learn more about four local Chattanooga pilots and their incredible stories from the sky. By Lindsey Clute

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“Once you have tasted flight, you will forever walk the earth with your eyes turned skyward. For there you have been, and there you will always long to return.” – John Secondari

PHOTO BY JIMIE LUANGRATH/CREATIVE REVOLVER

CITYSCOPEMAG.COM •

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Soaring the Skies [ IN FULL FLIGHT ]

Paul Rogers | Carbon Cub EX-3 “Red Cub” + Beechcraft S35 Bonanza

P

aul Rogers is no stranger to aviation. In fact, it’s been a prominent part of his life from the time he was very young. The trajectory of his life’s passion was first set in 1967 when he was introduced to the world of aviation by the U.S. Navy’s elite flight demonstration squadron. “My dad took me to see the Blue Angels, and that was pretty much it for me,” Rogers explains. “That really planted a seed in me.” At age 16, he began flying, and one year later he earned his Private Pilot License. He joined the Navy in 1985, where he met his wife and received his Naval Aviator Wings, then served as a commercial airline pilot for Southwest Airlines for over 25 years. “My most memorable flight was in the Navy, the first time I landed on the aircraft carrier Lexington,” Rogers shares. “I was 26 years old, and they let me fly a T2 Buckeye over the Gulf of America and land on a floating ship all by myself … Another highlight was my first night carrier landing, which was terrifying … Those night landings never got any easier.” Rogers’ skillset has taken him on many adventures over the last five decades, and he has flown compact, rugged naval aircraft designed for training and combat, larger airliners like Boeing 737s, and small single-engine planes, including most Cessna models. After fulfilling his professional commitments, he now flies for pleasure, enjoying the freedom his two planes – a 1965 Beechcraft S35 Bonanza and a 2020 Carbon Cub EX-3 – give him. While the Bonanza comes in handy for longer trips to visit family in Minnesota and Florida, Rogers has a special purpose for the Cub. “My Carbon Cub was built in 2020 and is designed for short takeoff and landings,” he says. “I have competed with it in the National Short Takeoff and Landing (STOL) competition. It’s a lot of fun for sightseeing and is capable of landing in short grass fields.” In between solo flights, Rogers also enjoys sharing his passion with others. When he isn’t providing disadvantaged youth with free flights during Challenge Air events, he and his wife can be found traveling to visit their children and grandchildren or searching for their next favorite pancake breakfast.

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PHOTOS BY FINAL FLASH PRODUCTIONS

L ee B rock & L inda B rock

chattanooga home. no PLace Like it. 525 West Main Street • Chattanooga, Tennessee 423.366.8966 • 423.265.0088 • LindaBrockHomes.com

Lee Brock & Linda Brock make home selling and buying as easy as possible and are always available. They are the Concierge of Home Sales. Erich & Ashley Papendick

The Enclave - North Chattanooga

Photo courtesy of Casey Yoshida, The Scout Guide Chattanooga

[ IN FULL FLIGHT ]

Piloting the Piston

Edward Lee Boyd | Piper Archer III “

F

lying is a passion that fulfills one’s dreams and adds a sense of lasting accomplishment,” says Edward Lee Boyd. That passion comes from a lifelong fascination with airplanes that has allowed Boyd to embark on many memorable adventures above the clouds. After building model airplanes as a child, he progressed to U-control and remote-controlled aircraft before taking to the skies himself. Soon after earning his license in the ‘90s, he entered his first aerobatic competition and won the Grass Roots Flight Medal Award. Over the years, Boyd has owned and flown a variety of aircraft, including a Cessna 150 Aerobat, multiple Starduster biplanes, an Oldfield Baby Great Lakes biplane, and a 46 Luscombe 8A Master. Today, Boyd owns three aircraft: a 1998 Piper Archer III, a Carbon Cub SS, and a Swick T. While his Carbon Cub SS is his favorite for its short takeoff and landing (STOL) capabilities, the Archer offers something different – a reliable, lower-maintenance cross-country aircraft, which he’s flown with his wife from Long Island, Bahamas, to Big Bend National Park in Texas, Oshkosh, and other destinations across the country. Meanwhile, the Carbon Cub has opened the door to a different kind of flying. A modern take on the legendary

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Piper J-3 Cub, Boyd’s 2012 model is customized with a P-51inspired paint job and shark teeth, 31-inch Alaskan Bushwheel tires, and a Catto ground-adjustable propeller. He has competed in National STOL competitions for the past three years, taking first place in the Cub class last year. That competitive spirit also connects Boyd with other pilots and backcountry enthusiasts. “Flying always brings new friends who share your passion,” he says. “A few years back, a group of us from Chattanooga, Dalton, and the surrounding areas who have bush-type aircraft started flying together, landing in random fields, mountain ridges, riverbeds, and anything else that challenged us. We formed a group called the STOL Bandits and have a great time flying together.” Whether enjoying time with family in the Archer or seeking new thrills with friends in the Cub, for Boyd, flying is ultimately about being able to explore, challenge himself, and experience something new. “I enjoy flying for its freedom and escape,” says Boyd. “Stress and challenges fade away, and all that’s left is a sense of achievement. Whatever type of flying you like – cross-country, aerobatics, backcountry, seaplane, etc. – there’s always a new adventure and a new place that flying can take you.” PHOTOS BY JIMIE LUANGRATH/CREATIVE REVOLVER

Preserving the Past

Chris Stimson Beech Staggerwing D17S “Tweety Bird”

F

PHOTOS BY JIMIE LUANGRATH/CREATIVE REVOLVER

[ IN FULL FLIGHT ]

or Chris Stimson, flying is a profession, a personal passion, and an important connection to history. Following a childhood where he was regularly exposed to aviation by his father, an American Airlines captain, Stimson’s own relationship with flight began by experimenting with gliders at age 11. At 16, he transitioned to airplanes, setting the course for a career that would take him around the world. As a pilot for UPS, he’s spent his career flying some of the world’s largest, most advanced aircraft. But his current personal plane, a 1944 Beech Staggerwing D17S, dubbed “Tweety Bird” for its vibrant yellow hue, transports him to an earlier era in aviation history. With its distinctive staggered wings, polished presence, and nearly eight decades of history, the vintage plane offers a tangible connection to an era when aviation was still defining what was possible. Manufactured as a luxury plane during the Great Depression, the Staggerwing served the military during World War II before becoming one of the most coveted vintage aircraft in the world. “It was an airplane that was ahead of its time,” Stimson explains. “It’s design is unique – the top wing is set behind the lower wing. This wasn’t standard for the day. All biplanes at that time were the opposite … This design gave the Staggerwing enhanced aerodynamic characteristics not found in other airplanes of its vintage.” Today, Stimson is helping keep the Staggerwing’s legacy alive, turning heads at every airport and frequently attending aviation events to reconnect with longtime friends and make new ones through their shared passion. “All these experiences are directly related to the love I have for aviation,” he says. “I am blessed to be able to enjoy one of my great passions in life, both professionally and personally.” That passion has immersed him in new cultures, shaped his perspective of the world, and given him a sense of purpose. “Flying is challenging and rewarding and has allowed me to see and experience this world fully,” Stimson concludes. “It has offered me excitement, adventure, and has allowed me to take a skill I crafted and enjoy that in many different ways.” CITYSCOPEMAG.COM •

29

[ IN FULL FLIGHT ]

Honoring the Heritage

Randy Hirsch | Ercoupe 415-E + Mermaid M6

I

t’s the mid-1970s on a farm in Illinois. A small grass strip runway stretches out beneath the Midwestern sky. Nearby, a young Randy Hirsch watches as his grandfather and uncle take flight with Sam, his grandfather’s dog, and “barnstorm” around the farm in their experimental aircraft. “Grandpa was a regular at the EAA Airventure airshow in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, and I got to tag along with him a few times,” Hirsch recalls. “Those early experiences really made an impression on me, and aviation has been a lifelong passion ever since.” Now a longstanding pilot, Hirsch has flown a variety of planes, from numerous Cessnas to multiple Piper Cherokees and a Texan T-6. His two current treasures include a 1948 Ercoupe 415-E and a 2013 Mermaid M6, an amphibious lightsport seaplane, both of which he has restored and renovated as an FAA-certified Airframe and Powerplant technician. As a historic plane, Hirsch explains that the Ercoupe has a fascinating backstory. “Following World War II, these planes were marketed as personal transportation and sold directly on

30 • C I T Y S C O P E M A G . C O M

the showroom floor at Macy's in Manhattan,” he shares. “Now, there are about 2,000 left with roughly half those still flying.” With a simplified two-control system, the Ercoupe replaces traditional rudder pedals with a single steering wheel. “You taxi on the ground the same way you steer a car,” Hirsch explains. “You can also fly the Ercoupe with the windows down, opencockpit style, which makes for great fun in warm weather!” Flying also provides opportunities for spending time with his wife, Stacie, and their five children. From sightseeing trips and fly-in breakfasts to school drop-offs and visits with the grandparents, aviation has been woven into their family life. Hirsch also enjoys peaceful solo flights, early morning trips, and sunset views over the valley. “I love flying for the sheer joy of it,” he says. “The control in three dimensions, the perspective of life from an open cockpit 2,500 feet above it all, the feeling of a water landing done just right, the sunset view over the river, and the clouds blanketing the valleys in the early morning light as you skim above the mountain peaks. The beauty and freedom of flight just can't be beat!”

PHOTOS BY FINAL FLASH PRODUCTIONS

Distinguished Watches for Him & Her

213 Chickamauga Avenue Rossville, Georgia 706.866.3033

B rody J ewelers

From Zoomies to Zzz’s The Whole-Dog Experience at Play Wash Stay After successfully launching Nooga Turf, Nooga Paws, and Play Wash Pint, Bob and Courtney Poore have continued to find new ways to make their mark on Chattanooga’s business scene and serve its four-legged community. Their latest endeavor, Play Wash Stay, takes the couple’s passion for dogs a step further with the intent of helping them live happier, healthier, and more fulfilled lives. From the first morning zoomies to the last evening nap, Play Wash Stay’s more than 20,000-square-foot facility is designed around the full circle of a dog’s day – how they play, learn, socialize, exercise, rest, and receive care. Located near downtown, Play Wash Stay is Chattanooga’s only free-range daycare and boarding facility, meaning the pack spends their days rotating between play groups in the yard and rest areas. But Bob says the vision has always been bigger than simply giving dogs a place to spend the day. “Play Wash Stay was designed to be more than a place for daycare or boarding,” he says. “Our goal is to support the whole dog through grooming, training, enrichment, exercise, and socialization – all in an environment where dogs can feel comfortable, build relationships, and simply be dogs.” The facility itself was designed with those needs in mind. Climate-controlled play areas, pools, play structures, dedicated boarding accommodations, grooming and training services, and webcams for owners are all part of the experience. But for the Play Wash Stay team, creating a positive environment is about more than the amenities. It starts with knowing the dogs who walk through their door. No pack is complete without a leader, and at Play Wash Stay, they’re known as the Ruff Rangers. Every dog is assessed by a Ranger before joining the daycare pack, and consistent attendance allows the team to become familiar with each dog and their individual needs. “One of the things that matters most to us is really knowing the dogs in our care,” adds Bob. “We want our Ruff Rangers to know their personalities, their play styles, who their friends are, and when something just seems a little off. That familiarity allows us to provide a much better and safer experience.” For the dogs, daycare isn’t simply about going home tired. Throughout the day, the pack has all kinds of opportunities that cater to their health as a whole. “We want dogs to learn how to socialize appropriately, get comfortable around different dogs and people, have opportunities for enrichment, and also learn when it’s time to slow down and rest,” says Bob. “A successful daycare day should be both fun and healthy.” Day-to-day activities can include playing fetch, practicing basic manners, going for pack “jogs,” and various other enrichment experiences. And when it’s time for their humans to go out of town, Play Wash Stay offers boarding options to match different personalities and preferences. Free-range

boarders spend their days with their daycare friends and have a Ruff Ranger onsite overnight, while luxury kennels provide private accommodations for dogs who prefer their own space. “Not every dog is the same, so we don’t think boarding should be one-size-fits-all,” Bob says. “The goal is finding the experience that works best for each individual dog.” Grooming and training round out the whole-dog approach, allowing dogs to receive professional care in a familiar environment. Beyond the facility, the Poores continue to bring dogs, owners, and friends together in the community. They created Tails, Trails, and Ales, a multi-race trail day on November 7 held at and benefiting Reflection Riding, as another way to connect with the active, dog-loving community that has helped shape the business. And whether a dog is spending the day at daycare, staying overnight, learning a new skill, getting groomed, or joining their humans for an adventure around town, the goal remains the same, according to Bob: “At the end of the day, we want dogs to be excited when they come through the door and owners to feel good when they leave them with us. If we can create a place where dogs are known, cared for, safe, and genuinely happy to be here, then we’re doing what we set out to do.”

ADVERTORIAL

34 • C I T Y S C O P E M A G . C O M

PEDALING ONWARD Competitive Cyclists Share Their Love for the Sport For some cyclists, riding their bike is more than just a mode of transportation; it’s a way of life. From training for the next triathlon to taking on steep mountain trails, the following five cyclists from the Chattanooga area are always ready for the next challenge. Here, they share what fuels their passion for cycling and how it has helped them build fitness, friendships, and fortitude.

Photography by Marshall Stephens / TriStar Visuals

CITYSCOPEMAG.COM •

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AUSTIN SULLIVAN A childhood pastime evolved into a lifestyle for Austin Sullivan, who tackles everything from the roads to the mountains on his bicycle.

How has your relationship with cycling evolved over the years? I have sort of built my life around bicycles. I ran a cycling club at Valdosta State University, and after graduating, all I wanted to do was ride. I moved to Austin, Texas, and began driving a bike taxi (pedicab). I got interested in bikepacking and rode multiple long-distance routes including the Colorado Trail, Trans North Georgia, and the Huracan 350. In the last couple years, I've put more focus on single-day events in the 100-200-mile range.

[ P E DA L I N G O N WA R D ]

How often can you be found on your bike? I'm out riding five to seven days a week, spreading out rides between the mountain bike, gravel bike, and road bike. I share an e-bike with my partner, Audrey, and occasionally use it for groceries or local hangouts. I try to do a couple pointto-point commutes each year, visiting family or just exploring new areas. Do you have any cycling traditions? I’ve been to Unbound Gravel four of the last five years. With 3,000 to 4,000 participants, this is the Super Bowl of gravel racing. My favorite event is Transcordilleras: an eight-day stage race across the Andes Mountains in Colombia.

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The route changes every year, but my highlight is staying in different small remote villages each night. What is your proudest cycling accomplishment? At Transcordilleras 2026, I managed to finish on the podium for stage 8 (3rd place). That is probably the sweetest podium I've managed to step onto. What has cycling taught you? So much patience and trust in the process of becoming prepared. As a kid, I had trouble sitting still and focusing. I think that cycling taught me how to focus and helped get out that antsy energy. What does the local cycling community look like? The cycling scene in Chattanooga is really big for its size. Nearly every day of the week, there is a group ride of some sort in town or within 25 miles. We have five bicycle manufacturers in town and over 100 miles of bike trails within a 30-minute radius. What's next on your cycling bucket list? Cycling on other continents and seeing more of the world are major bucket list items.

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J O H N AT H A N G R I M E S Johnathan Grimes has competed on his handcycle at races across the country and is passionate about showing others that “there is a life to be lived after injury.”

When did you first get into cycling? I was brought to a SPARC (Sports, Arts, and Recreation) adaptive cycling event, while I was admitted at Siskin Hospital for Rehabilitation, by my physical therapist and his colleague. They knew I was a very physical person prior to becoming paralyzed and thought this would be a fit for me. I will forever be grateful they did, as well as to SPARC for working with me from that day forward. What made you stick with it? The independence, freedom, and confidence I gained from adaptive sports, along with helping others improve their lives after injury through these same events, keeps me motivated to continue on.

[ P E DA L I N G O N WA R D ]

Do you have any cycling traditions? Every year, I participate in a relay team in the Chattanooga Waterfront Triathlon. Annually, SPARC sponsors teams and individuals of all abilities in this race. It helps to promote awareness and inclusion of adaptive sports and athletes. What is your proudest cycling accomplishment? Going from barely pedaling a few hundred feet without

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my arms becoming extremely exhausted to being able to not bat an eye at covering 30 miles. What do you love most about cycling? It is a way to leave behind my wheelchair for a while and challenge myself in a different way than the normal daily challenges of life. It's nice to cover more distance with my handcycle in one session than I could ever cover in my wheelchair in a day. It also doesn't hurt to hear someone be amazed by seeing my handcycle when they have never seen one before. It tends to bring a smile to hear them, especially kids, make their comments. What has cycling taught you? That I'm capable of far more than I ever thought possible when I first became injured. At first, it seemed like life was over. Adaptive cycling was the first sport I was introduced to, and it gave me my confidence back. Trying new things and learning new ways to do things wasn't such a perceived obstacle anymore. It doesn't matter how hard it may seem at first. Do it anyways. Gain that new ability or reclaim an old one to better yourself and your life.

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DANNY BROETZMANN Danny Broetzmann has been around bicycles his entire life, having grown up riding around his neighborhoods. These days, he can be found training year-round for the IRONMAN 70.3 triathlon – a loop he’s ridden over 100 times.

[ P E DA L I N G O N WA R D ]

When did you first get into cycling? 2004 was the first time I took on cycling as a sport, as it was the year I started racing triathlon … In 2021, I asked my wife if she would mind if I trained again; I wanted to see what kind of fitness a 50-yearold body could accomplish. Much to my surprise, my fitness levels surpassed my expectations, as I eventually became the fastest and fittest I had ever been on the bike. The bike has been my strength, and it has allowed me to take a podium spot in several IRONMAN 70.3 races over the past five years.

How has your relationship with cycling evolved over the years? I'm grateful to cycling, as it has given me current and lifelong fitness and good health. One additional joy cycling has brought me is being able to share it with my children (ages 7, 9, 11, and 17). Last year, we rode on the Riverwalk from Blue Goose Hollow Trailhead to St. Elmo, where we enjoyed pizza and ice cream.

What is your proudest cycling accomplishment? Any time I do well in a race is an accomplishment. Being 54 and still being able to compete at the highest level is a blessing. The 2022 IRONMAN 70.3 World Championships in St. George was an absolutely surreal experience.

Do you have any advice for someone wanting to get into cycling? As with anything in life, start small and basic. In 1987, I bought my first "real" bike from East Ridge Bicycles, and it gave me the fitness that continues to shape me today. Slowly progress and remember the goal: improving fitness and letting yourself become a stronger version of yourself.

What do you love most about cycling? Training is fun, but I enjoy the moments I get to ride with others too. My good friend Andrew is who I have spent the most time training with; we have raced almost every race together over the past 12 years.

What's next on your cycling bucket list? I will continue training and racing as long as I can; age is not a limiter. The current dream is to qualify for the 2027 IRONMAN 70.3 World Championships right here in Chattanooga.

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N AT H A N H O D G E S Nathan Hodges can be found rotating through his collection of triathlon, road, mountain, and restored vintage bikes for adventures both big and small. When did you first get into cycling? My cycling career began back in 2016 when my girlfriend’s (now wife) brother and father jokingly invited me out for a long bike ride. I surprised them both by showing up and proceeded to cramp halfway through, causing them to change their route to drop me off back at home. My stubbornness kicked in, and I began training just to keep up with them while they were training for IRONMAN Chattanooga. At some point during our 80-120 mile bike rides in 2016, I fell in love with it and never looked back. Here I am, 10 years and 50,000 miles later, with a garage full of bikes and a very good knowledge of almost all backroads in Southeast Tennessee. What is your proudest cycling accomplishment? My largest challenge on a bike came during the Swissman full-distance triathlon: the bike ride took me over three major Swiss Alp passes across 115 miles and approximately 13,000 feet of elevation gain.

What do you love most about cycling? I love pushing myself to the limit, and cycling gives the perfect opportunity to really see how far your body and mind can be pushed. There is nothing like facing a tall mountain on tired legs and still overcoming it. What has cycling taught you? Cycling provides the perfect representation of “hard work always pays off.” It can be as simple as the fight to climb up a big mountain to enjoy the fun, fast descent; it can also be as complex as training hard for six months to complete a 150-mile bike race. Do you have any advice for someone wanting to get into cycling? Don't be nervous to be “the newbie” at the group ride. Every cyclist out there was once “the newbie.” You’ll be surprised at how welcoming the bike groups in Chattanooga are.

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[ P E DA L I N G O N WA R D ]

How often can you be found on your bike? What used to be mapping out 100+ mile bike rides every weekend

has turned into mapping out 2-3 mile rides on the Chattanooga Riverwalk so my 5-year-old daughter can pedal along next to me. I would pick the 2-3 mile rides any day!

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DAVID GENO After his wife talked him into his first triathlon, David Geno discovered a passion for the sport and says, “we’ve been riding and racing triathlons ever since.” How has your relationship with cycling evolved over the years? Back when I signed up for that first IRONMAN race, I always thought I would be a one and done. But I fell in love with the sport and the community and have continued riding and racing for six years now. Tell us about your current bike. My current bike is a Quintana Roo PRSix. One thing that’s very cool about that brand is that it’s headquartered and made right here in Chattanooga!

[ P E DA L I N G O N WA R D ]

What do you love most about cycling? I always say there’s no better way to explore and experience somewhere than through exercise. Whether it’s running or biking, you just get to enjoy God’s creation and soak in the beauty of the outdoors in a way that you don’t get when driving in a car. Plus, the physical challenge of riding is something that always brings you back. What is your proudest cycling accomplishment? Completing my first full IRONMAN race has to be up there. The first race is always full of so many unknowns, and it was one of the hardest things I’ve done. It was also

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an incredibly special moment because my wife and I raced together and actually crossed the finish line at the same time! What is the most memorable ride you've been on? The IRONMAN 70.3 world championship race in Nice, France, I competed in this year. I’d never been to Europe before, and getting to experience the mountains and scenery there is something I’ll never forget. What does the local cycling community look like? The cycling community here has been incredible. My wife and I found a local triathlon team, Focus Endurance, that introduced us to an amazing group of talented athletes and genuinely great people. We’re also fortunate to have some outstanding local bike shops. East Ridge Bicycles has been wonderful for us ever since we started. What has cycling taught you? Cycling has taught me the power of consistency. It is a sport that rewards those who stick with it and keep training. It also has taught me patience, because sometimes you’re on that bike for a really long time!

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A Perfect Fit FINDING THE RIGHT RUNNING SHOE

Whether you’re training for a race or simply looking to log more miles each week, the right pair of shoes can make all the difference. While it may be tempting to purchase a new pair based off style, color, or brand, finding the best fit for your feet and your running style can make your runs more comfortable and productive. By Ali Lemmons

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When starting the shopping process, consider four key factors: terrain, fit, gait, and cushioning.

Terrain

Gait

Before choosing a shoe, think about where you run, as different shoes are better for different types of terrain. For road running, a smooth outsole and lightweight shoe offers less resistance, whereas shoes with an aggressive tread provide better grip on uneven surfaces when trail running.

Everyone runs differently, and some shoes are designed to accommodate specific movement patterns. A specialty running store can evaluate your gait, watch you run, and help narrow down options based on your stride and foot shape, whether you have high arches, flat feet, or a neutral gait.

Fit

Cushioning

The right fit can prevent injuries and keep your feet more comfortable during each run. When choosing a new running shoe, your heel should fit snugly in the shoe without slipping out, and there should be a thumb’s width between your longest toe and the front of the shoe. You also shouldn’t feel any pressure across the middle of your foot.

When it comes to cushioning, more isn’t always best. Different running styles may call for different amounts of padding. Experienced runners may have stronger feet and leg muscles and prefer a lowerprofile shoe that allows them to feel the ground better, whereas walkers may benefit from the higher shock absorption that more cushioning offers.

On Your Mark, Get Set, Go! Remember – running shoes don’t last forever. It’s recommended to replace your shoes every 300 to 500 miles, but keep an eye out for signs that it may already be time for a replacement, including an uneven outsole, a flattened midsole, or new aches or discomfort. Replacing your shoes before they become completely worn out can help keep you on track to reaching your goals.

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KEEPING R E C R E AT I O N RUNNING BEHIND THE SCENES OF THE S C E N I C C I T Y ’ S PA R K S & T R A I L S

Named North America’s first National Park City, Chattanooga has a wealth of public parks, nature trails, and hiking paths for residents and visitors to enjoy. However, what many don’t see when they enjoy these scenic surroundings is the hard work that goes on behind the scenes. Here, we introduce six local men who help keep our parks and trails ready for recreation yearround, from trail building and routine maintenance to big-picture planning and equipping the next generation to steward our area’s recreational resources with sustainability in mind. By Rachel Studebaker Photography by Tall Tails Media

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Patrick Kelly

ADJUNCT PROFESSOR, UNIVERSITY O F T E N N E S S E E AT C H AT TA N O O G A When Patrick Kelly took a summer job as a lodge cook in Yellowstone National Park in 2003, he had no idea that it would lead to a 25-year career in the outdoors industry, from a stint in AmeriCorps to land management roles out West. Since 2013, Kelly has served as stewardship director at Lula Lake Land Trust, and this year, he added a new role to his resume: adjunct professor. During the spring semester, he partnered with the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga to create a Trail Building and Management course – the first of its kind at the university. From trail-building techniques to real-world applications, Kelly enjoyed equipping his students with skills they can put into practice. This included a semester-long project at Stringer’s Ridge, where the class designed and constructed a reroute of the previously closed Baldy Dash Trail. Sustainability was also a core focus of the course. “It is vital that we find a balance between creating spaces for people to enjoy the natural environment and creating the least amount of disruption to the ecosystem,” says Kelly. “When designing a trail, we look for things such as sensitive species, invasive species, how we build near streams, and ways to minimize the overall footprint of the trail.” While Kelly notes that trail building is hard work and “there is no way around swinging a tool for much of the day,” he adds that, “You’re usually in good company and spending your day outside in some of the most beautiful places you can imagine.” Once the trail is opened, however, the work doesn’t stop there; Kelly emphasizes that trails can’t serve the community if they aren’t maintained. “If you take away the net from a tennis court or a backboard is broken off a basketball goal, you can't play the game the way it was intended. It's the same with trails. You can't fully enjoy a trail if it's overgrown and full of downed trees,” he explains. Thankfully, Chattanooga has no shortage of devoted residents up to the task, including Kelly. “Chattanooga is unlike any place I have experienced in terms of the variety of trails, terrain, and public lands managed by so many different organizations,” he finishes. “You can ride, run, or hike from downtown to the top of mountains, cross into different states, and even camp along the way if you want to. I think that's pretty special.”

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Andrew Jacks

[ K E E P I N G R E C R E AT I O N R U N N I N G ]

HEAD GROUNDSKEEPER, EAST RIDGE PA R K S A N D R E C R E AT I O N Over the past 50 years, Camp Jordan Park has become a recreational staple in East Ridge. Operated by the East Ridge Parks and Recreation Department, the 275-acre park abounds in recreational opportunities for residents, including a 2-mile walking path, 18-hole frisbee golf course, 13 baseball/softball fields, 14 soccer fields, and more, with plenty of green space and nature access to spare. Helping to keep these spaces maintained and manicured is Andrew Jacks, head groundskeeper. Jacks joined Camp Jordan Park in 2005 after holding previous roles in parks and recreation. As head groundskeeper, he is responsible for keeping the fields of Camp Jordan Park in shape behind the scenes so parkgoers can safely enjoy their favorite sports and hobbies amid scenic surroundings. Open year-round, seven days a week, the grounds at Camp Jordan Park keep Jacks plenty busy, but he takes pride in keeping each and every field in pristine playing condition. While most of his time is spent on the soccer fields, which he mows three times every week, Jacks says that other workdays are devoted to fertilizing, weed control, aerification, and top dressing to ensure lush, green grass at every turn. For Jacks, maintenance is a daily occurrence, and every season looks a little different. “Mother Nature is the biggest challenge, from too much rain to no rain and high temperatures,” he says. “You just have to be patient and work around her.” In addition to maintaining existing fields, Jacks has helped create new ones. Since he started as head groundskeeper more than 20 years ago, he has been involved in installing nine new soccer fields at Camp Jordan Park – nearly doubling the original count. This accomplishment is no small feat, as Jacks describes the meticulous process of grading the land; ensuring proper drainage and irrigation; and laying the new sod. These efforts haven’t gone unrecognized. In 2022, Jacks accepted the Municipal Sports Field of the Year Award on behalf of Camp Jordan Park from the Tennessee Turfgrass Association during its annual conference. This award not only recognizes distinguished sports fields across the state but the dedicated facility members who make them possible. At the end of the day, Jacks says his favorite part of the job is simply seeing the park and its fields enjoyed by kids and their families, and he encourages everyone to “keep supporting the parks that are in your neighborhood.”

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Barry Smith

[ K E E P I N G R E C R E AT I O N R U N N I N G ]

OWNER, BARRY SMITH TRAILS Before it turned into a successful business, trail building was something Barry Smith regularly did on a volunteer basis, from helping build bike racing tracks as a boy to partnering with SORBA Chattanooga to create a trail system on Raccoon Mountain. “I found the trail building work to be enjoyable and rewarding,” say Smith. “Word of mouth locally and regionally began to spread, and after a couple of years, I was able to get paid for the work.” Smith founded Barry Smith Trails in 2005, specializing in building natural surface hiking and mountain biking trails. Since then, he has contracted on projects at Enterprise South Nature Park, Cloudland Canyon State Park, Stringer’s Ridge, Southern Adventist University, Walden’s Ridge Park, 5 Points Trail System, and a recent addition to the Aetna Mountain Trail System, among many others. “With help from my passionate crew, we have constructed somewhere in the neighborhood of 500 miles over the past 20 years,” estimates Smith. While others commute to work via car, Smith and his team can be found bushwacking through dense woods for miles on foot to access their worksites, often with wildlife to keep them company. “We have seen most every animal that lives in the Southeast,” says Smith, recalling, “I once stirred up a yellow jacket nest from under a log, and when I hurried to get off the machine, I had a rattlesnake on the ground waiting on me. I took the rest of the day off to let things calm down out there.” Smith and his team pride themselves on their low-impact approach and aim to design trails that blend with the natural environment. When it comes time to build out the trail, Smith turns to tried-and-true methods, sharing, “We construct our trails with water management and erosion control in strong consideration using some oldschool Civilian Conservation Corps bench-cut techniques combined with today's mechanized power to produce a rolling contour trail design that sheds water frequently.” This process involves using mini excavators to cut the path and then following behind on foot with hand tools to prune roots and lay rocks. After waiting for a rainy day to compact the soil, the trail is ready to open to the public: Smith’s favorite part, as his hard work becomes a place for families to unplug, have fun, and spend quality time together in the great outdoors.

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Jeffrey Grabe

PA R K S D I R E C T O R , R E D B A N K PA R K S A N D R E C R E AT I O N

[ K E E P I N G R E C R E AT I O N R U N N I N G ]

When Red Bank established its first Parks Division in 2023, Jeffrey Grabe was selected to lead the new department as parks director. Equipped with a degree in outdoor recreation management and prior experience leading outdoor programs, Grabe helps guide the long-term vision for the city’s parks, trails, and recreation system, from overseeing routine maintenance to partnering on major projects. Fueling Grabe’s work is a heart for his community. “I enjoy creating spaces and opportunities that bring people together, whether that's through a new trail, a community event, or a park improvement project. Seeing residents of all ages using and enjoying these spaces is incredibly rewarding,” he shares. Behind each park and trail are years of work that Grabe explains happen before construction ever begins. “Creating a new park or trail takes three things: time, planning, and funding,” he shares. “Fortunately, we have a roadmap to guide those decisions. In 2024, Red Bank adopted its first ever Parks Master Plan, which helps us prioritize projects, identify community needs, and make strategic investments in the future of our parks, trails, and recreational spaces.” Community engagement is an important part of this process, as Grabe operates a Parks and Recreation Advisory Board comprised of 10 residents to learn what outdoor experiences matter to the community. He adds that environmental stewardship is also key. “We strive to balance providing public access to nature with protecting the natural features that make those spaces valuable in the first place. Thoughtful planning helps us ensure that recreation and conservation work hand in hand rather than competing with each other,” says Grabe. A recent project Grabe helped oversee was the Godsey Ridge Trail System, which added 1.5 miles of multi-use trails for the community to enjoy – at no cost to Red Bank, thanks to a Tennessee Department of Health grant that he says "transformed a vision into a tangible recreational asset for the community.” To residents looking to support their outdoor spaces, Grabe encourages them to “simply get out and use them.” He explains, “When residents regularly use local parks, trails, playgrounds, and other amenities, it demonstrates that these spaces are valued, loved, and needed.” “Ultimately, the projects I'm proudest of are the ones that create opportunities for future generations. Whether it's building a trail, developing a long-term plan, or laying the groundwork for future funding, the goal is always to leave Red Bank with a stronger parks and recreation system than when we started,” he finishes.

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Robert Windham

LAND MANAGER AND PUBLIC A C C E S S C O O R D I N AT O R , T E N N E S S E E RIVER GORGE TRUST

[ K E E P I N G R E C R E AT I O N R U N N I N G ]

A childhood interest in the natural sciences led Robert Windham to pursue higher education and a career centered on the outdoors. “I was first introduced to trail stewardship during college courses and later through an internship with the Tennessee River Gorge Trust, and that hands-on field work shaped my graduate focus around biology and conservation-driven land management,” he shares. Now, as land manager and public access coordinator for the Tennessee River Gorge Trust (TRGT), Windham’s primary duties include the maintenance and improvement of its community access sites as well as planning and developing new ones. These include the Pot Point Nature Trail, Ritchie Hollow Trail, and the developing Williams Island Trail. A recent addition to this lineup was Phase II of the Aetna Mountain Trail System, completed in August of 2026, which added 4 new miles of adaptive multi-use mountain biking and hiking trails. Windham shares that trail building requires thoughtful planning from start to finish, from identifying suitable land where there’s community demand to designing the trail, fundraising, securing permitting, and then beginning the final build. “For any developing project, meticulous planning goes into the design and route of a new trail to ensure we minimize any impact on sensitive habitats and species,” he adds. Conservation is at the forefront of the work Windham does, and he says these public access sites are pivotal to TRGT’s efforts to teach the community about conservation work, regularly hosting guided bird or wildflower hikes, volunteer days, and hands-on educational programs. To keep these sites ready for educational and recreational activities alike, Windham and his team conduct trail maintenance year-round, including storm cleanup, managing overgrowth, and overseeing ongoing trail improvements. To support land managers in taking care of local trails, Windham recommends, “Always practice leave-no-trace principles and help carry out trash if you find any. If there's ever a trail survey posted at the trailhead, don't be shy to share constructive criticism or report trail conditions such as downed trees or eroded trail tread.” Ultimately, Windham says that this work is important, “so that anyone and everyone, across all ages and skill levels, can get outside and enjoy the beautiful land around us. Our parks and trails also help support a healthy community and provide avenues to foster a greater appreciation for the outdoors along with the shared responsibility for protecting our natural landscapes.”

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GOING FURTHER

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Mason Price

[ K E E P I N G R E C R E AT I O N R U N N I N G ]

LAND MANAGER, LULA LAKE LAND TRUST A summer interning at Lula Lake Land Trust turned into a full-time career for Mason Price. “I wanted to spend my days outside and contribute to work that made our local community better, something with a tangible impact. I couldn’t have found a better spot,” he shares. Today, as Lula Lake’s land manager, Price describes himself as the “lone set of boots on the ground” for the nature preserve, helping to manage over 3,500 acres of conservation land and maintain 40 miles of recreational trails. “Every day is spent outside in the field, balancing short-term tasks like cutting grass or clearing downed trees, while continuing progress on long-term projects like new trail construction or boundary marking,” shares Price. While he’s often the only employee on the job, Price says he’s hardly alone. “I try to learn the name of every snake, salamander, turtle, or bird I encounter. Even after five years, I’m just scratching the surface!” he says. Trail building is Price’s favorite task, and he credits his work on the Durham Mine Trails for teaching him everything he knows. Without access for heavy equipment at certain sections, he and his team spent countless hours hand digging trails that connected to the 15-mile network and even built a bridge using a nearby tree and stones. Having seen firsthand the work that goes on behind the scenes, Price encourages people to use their local trails. “Trails that get neglected eventually get abandoned. It would be a shame to let all the hard work it took to build a trail go to waste,” he explains. “With Chattanooga’s reputation as the Scenic City, it’s important that visitors see that we care about our trails.” For locals looking to give back, Price says, “Volunteer! I’m lucky enough to get to do this full time, but it takes so many volunteers to maintain a trail network, whether it’s a weekend trail-building event or just hiking with a pair of loppers in hand.” “When people tell me about riding on trails I’ve helped on, it’s deeply rewarding for me and makes all the hard work feel worthwhile. Especially when friends of mine send pictures of their little shredder riding the kids’ trails we’ve built. Some of my favorite memories as a kid were riding mountain bikes with my dad. I love seeing the next generation find that stoke, and maybe it’s the first spark for the next generation of trail builders,” he finishes.

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MAN’S BEST

FRIEND Bred for the Field, Bound by the Heart

T

he age-old bond between a man and his hunting dog is fueled by trust, love, and a mutual passion for the sport. Here, five local gentlemen share what makes their dogs special in the field and at home. As W.R. Pursche wrote, “Everyone thinks their dog is the best dog in the world. And none of them are wrong.” By Abby Callahan / Photography by Tall Tails Media

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[ MAN'S BEST FRIEND ]

Porter Ownbey with Sap

P

orter Ownbey has been hunting all of his life, but college is when he really became interested in upland hunting. Starting out as a hunting guide in Southeast Georgia, he says he’s been hooked ever since. His Boykin spaniel, Sap – “a fun, loving, and loyal ball of energy” – later joined Ownbey in 2018, making them a full-time team for nearly eight years. “The first hunt I took Sap on was at a well-known South Georgia plantation,” he says. “I had worn out three other dogs, and he was the only one I had left. I never told folks it was his first time, and they never suspected it. He was 6 months old and ran a perfect hunt, flushing and retrieving about 20 birds like he had done it for years.” Hunting primarily quail and pheasant, Sap helps to flush upland birds after pointer canines have located them. Working alongside pointers for several years, Ownbey says Sap has now begun mimicking the skill. He also helps to track deer and shed antlers in the early spring. Known for their energetic, spunky personalities, Sap is the perfect example of his breed. During initial training,

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Ownbey had to learn to work with the Boykin’s inherent personality and find ways to channel his energy. “It can be frustrating to handle a breed with their energy level, but it’s very rewarding once you get to a point when you’re both on the same wavelength,” he explains. “Now, we are extensions of each other in the field and can anticipate each other’s next move.” At home, Sap’s energy levels and intense focus are much the same. “He’s obsessed with anything that moves: balls, bugs, falling leaves, you name it,” Ownbey laughs. “He’s also notorious for stealing tomatoes out of my garden about a day before they’re ripe. He needs constant stimulation, but he can shut it off when he wants to relax.” But relaxation has looked quite different for the pair recently, as Ownbey and his wife recently welcomed their first baby into the world. “Sap has taken over as the third parent and is the first one to the nursery door when our baby starts crying,” Ownbey concludes. “It’s been fun to see him transition to his newest – and probably most important – role.”

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[ MAN'S BEST FRIEND ]

Jeff Zierenberg with Goose

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eff Zierenberg never expected to find his hunting companion while driving along the intersection of Highway 58 and Highway 306. But fate determined he would stop and rescue the stray black Labrador retriever that he later named Goose. “I opened my truck door, said ‘kennel up!’, and Goose immediately jumped in,” he recalls. “I couldn’t just surrender him to a shelter, leaving his future in question. So, I brought him into our home and dog family of three mini Australian shepherds and a Tennessee walker hound who is also a rescue. He assimilated quickly and literally would not leave my side.” After three weeks and no luck with locating the Lab’s owner, Zierenberg and his wife knew that Goose had found his forever home. “It was simply meant to be,” he says. With a lifelong passion for hunting and previous experience with Labradors, Zierenberg immediately enrolled Goose in a six-month training program with Timber Creek Retrievers. The two now work together to hunt waterfowl and doves. “Goose has been trained to follow where the birds fall; be sent on command to locate and bring the bird back;

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and heel by my side to release the bird when given the command,” explains Zierenberg. “Hunting conditions include dry land and water, but Goose loves the water retrieve. He enters with a big leap and splash as he swims to the bird, and this is the most incredible skill for me to watch and admire.” For Zierenberg, the best part of hunting with Goose is simply “sitting still together in the hunting blind, being in God's outdoors.” For Goose, it’s being next to his human, as he often pouts when Zierenberg hunts whitetailed deer and turkey without him on their property. During the off season, Goose’s exercise routine includes running alongside Zierenberg’s four-wheeler or UTV, topped off with a swim at the water hole they have designated as "Goose's Pond.” Goose also loves to ride shotgun with Zierenberg, never more than two feet away. “He really enjoys riding in the cab of my tractor with me while doing work on our property or sticking his head out of the truck to ‘feel the breeze’ with his dog goggles on,” Zierenberg finishes. “And whatever it is he’s doing, I treasure getting to watch him work.”

“Whatever it is he’s doing, I treasure getting to watch him work.”

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Cody Stubblefield with Boomer

[ MAN'S BEST FRIEND ]

B

efore graduating college, Cody Stubblefield says hunting and spending time with his family’s dogs were two separate pastimes. As he settled into his adult life and profession, he found himself craving the familiar companionship of a canine, but this time he wanted one that could “play and work.” “I’d always grown up with dogs, but they were never hunting dogs,” he explains. “It was kind of by accident that I ended up with a Brittany spaniel. Everything I read online said they were extremely hardworking and high-energy dogs, but they would also curl up right beside you on the couch after a long day. So, I started looking for a breeder, and it all fell into place.” Enter Boomer. At 4 months old and the last of his litter, Boomer had already begun learning how to point and hold from his breeder. So, when he began dove and duck hunting with Stubblefield in 2015, he was already a natural. For 11 years now, Boomer has demonstrated the strength of his lineage – a long line of pheasant and quail hunting dogs from Texas – forever surprising Stubblefield with his sheer grit and determination. “A few years ago, my friends and I went to a dove lease that I was on,” he recalls. “It was incredible to watch Boomer pick up bird after bird for me, as well as retrieve some for my friends that they couldn't find. He picked up right at 45 doves that day. He was exhausted afterward, but you could tell he was proud of himself, and I couldn't have been happier watching him work.” After challenging hunts, Stubblefield says he and Boomer like to relax with a day on the lake. “He’s a pretty great fishing companion. Though he isn't always sure what to think about the fish that are caught, he has always loved coming along for the ride.” As much as Stubblefield enjoys hunting with Boomer, he says witnessing the Brittany’s relationship with his 2-year-old son has been his favorite experience. “Typically, dogs can't get far enough away from babies, but Boomer is right in the mix of everything Leland is doing,” he finishes. “He’s always had a very sweet personality, but I didn't anticipate him being as attached and protective of my son as he is.”

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[ MAN'S BEST FRIEND ]

Seth Wier with Nico

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hen Seth Wier began looking for a hunting companion, he had a difficult time deciding between an upland dog and a retriever. Thankfully, he learned about the Draht breed and found the perfect blend in Nico, his 2-year-old Deutsch Drahthaar. “I’ve been hunting my whole life thanks to my dad who raised me up that way,” Wier says. “I harvested my first deer when I was 7 years old. Since then, I’ve hunted ducks, turkeys, quail, and everything in between. With Nico, we can start in a flooded-timber duck hole in the morning and complete the day with an upland quail hunt in the afternoon. He’s also very good at finding rabbits and tracking wounded deer.” Because Nico is so multi-faceted, Wier says preparing him for the hunt depends on the terrain. While hunting ducks, he dresses Nico in a neoprene vest to protect him from the cold water. For quail and mammals, Nico wears a protective vest to avoid brush and briar wounds. No matter what they are tracking, “Nico is full throttle” from the moment they start until the moment they

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return home. In fact, Nico’s focus is so intense that Wier needs only to look his way to re-center himself. “When I lose focus or get distracted, all it takes is me catching a glimpse of Nico's eyes, and it puts me right back in the game,” he says. “His eyes tell you everything you need to know, and you can see the instant they shift from playful to focused.” When Wier took Nico on his first duck hunt last year, he learned just how precise and driven the young canine’s focus allows him to be. Arriving at an unfamiliar property well before daylight, Nico was faced with nearly 400 yards of flooded timber that he had to swim in order to get to the hole where the pair would be hunting. "Once we arrived at the spot, Nico went straight to hunt mode and he inherently knew exactly what his job was: get the birds and bring them to dad," finishes Wier. "He retrieved a total of 15 ducks – with several 100-yard retrieves – like he had been doing it his whole life. It was a very special day, and it’s one that I won’t ever forget!”

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Jeffrey Thompson with Greta & Ellie May

[ MAN'S BEST FRIEND ]

A

t 14, living and hunting in western Pennsylvania, Jeffrey Thompson dreamed of owning a pointing dog. After moving to New York City as an adult, that dream finally became a reality in the form of a pudelpointer. “Greta is often confused for a male because of her beard,” Thompson laughs. “She’s also quite large for her gender, as her father was an enormous, highly bred versatile champion from the North American Versatile Hunting Dog Association (NAVHDA). She arrived during the pandemic and was part of a life change, so my wife and I had plenty of time for puppy training and welcomed the furry distraction.” The three of them later moved to New Jersey, where Thompson joined the state's NAVHDA chapter. He later transfered to the Tennessee Chapter in 2024 when the family settled in Chattanooga. Hunting pheasant, grouse, woodcock, duck, chukar, quail, and geese in New York, New Jersey, Tennessee, Georgia, and Alabama, Thompson and Greta are going on their sixth hunting season. He says her prey drive is naturally high, but he adds, “When she saw her first covey of quail in Tennessee, she was so excited, she practically lost her mind!” Due to Greta’s successful hunts, Thompson and his wife decided to welcome Ellie May – Greta’s niece – into their pack. After a year of training and watching Greta, she will join the pair this fall. “Ellie May has been a drastically different dog to train and was a little timid when training to swim; Greta’s prey drive had her launching into water with gusto from the very start,” Thompson recalls. “But boy, it was magical to watch when she first realized a game bird was what she was missing in her short, 12-week life at the time.” Every year, Thompson looks forward to the quiet walks through the forest, but his favorite part of hunting is the art of preparing their game. “As a career chef and hunter, I get asked what I enjoy cooking the most,” he finishes. “Without question, it’s the game I’ve prepared field-totable for friends and family. When they experience something homemade and unique, I get the opportunity to wax on about the entire hunt, the statuesque points, and impossible retrieves made possible by my willing companion and true best friend who is laying tableside – just waiting for the chance to do it all again.”

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Hunter Payne with Oakley

[ MAN'S BEST FRIEND ]

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ntroduced to hunting in the ‘60s by his late father, Hunter Payne is now welcoming his 58th hunting season with Oakley by his side. Over the years, he has had both pointer and setter companions, but he was always partial to one breed. “Growing up in the South in my era, there were only two breeds of bird dogs, and they were pointers or setters,” Payne recalls. “While I had and still have both, I always favored the English setter.” Often referred to as the “gentlemen of the dog world,” English setters like Oakley are known for their active, loyal, and sweet-tempered personalities, but their namesake dates back to the 14th century, when hunters used nets instead of firearms and a successful hunt relied on the setters’ ability to silently indicate a game bird’s location. “Oakley is 2 and a half years old and has a line of field-trial champions in her pedigree; this is her first year of getting to demonstrate her prowess,” says Payne. “While training in the field, she’s been all business about the hunt, and her hunting drive has proven high. Off duty, she’s pretty flexible and fairly calm, but she can be quite mischievous due to her age.” Though Payne has always preferred the quiet of the country, he spent a decade living and working in Atlanta before moving to Spring City to pursue a career in breeding and training hunting dogs by opening Gundog Development. For the past 26 years, he has bred and trained hundreds of setters and pointers – including Oakley. Throughout her training, the pair have traveled to Oklahoma, Kansas, and North Dakota to hunt upland birds such as grouse, quail, pheasant, and woodcock. Though Oakley was originally raised as part of the kennel, Payne says he quickly learned that they would be hunting companions for years to come. “I ultimately raise and train my dogs to find a loving home where they can be the best hunters possible for their new owners,” he finishes. “But sometimes dogs like Oakley come along and we make a connection that can’t be broken.”

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LIFESTYLE “GENTLEMAN IS A TERM WHICH DOES NOT APPLY TO ANY STATION, BUT TO THE MIND AND THE FEELINGS IN EVERY STATION.” – THOMAS NOON TALFOURD

PHOTO BY STEADFAST IMAGES

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P E R F E C T I NG a CRAFT From quilting and weaving to knitting and more, fiber arts encompasses a wide range of time-honored crafts used to create both functional pieces and beautiful works of art. Here, we chat with five talented fiber artists in the area to find out what makes this art form so special. Read on to learn how they began their journey with fiber arts, what types of products they make, and so much more.

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EA RL COPPL E

Can you describe your journey with fiber arts? My father was weaving before I was born. As a child, I did small things to help him, so I probably started around 7 years old in 1958. What types of products do you make and why do you gravitate toward those? How have they evolved over time? I make rugs or place mats. I really haven’t changed because what I am making is, to some degree, timeless. I tell people that I am making modern “antiques.” How would you describe your style? Classic rag rugs. My most common piece is made from a men's dress shirt and an old sheet. I make the beginning and end pieces and the main body from the cut-up sheet. Near either end is a color bar, typically about four inches from the shirt. I offset those segments with a small color stripe specifically chosen to highlight the color of the sheet and the shirt. Which piece has been the most challenging? I was commissioned to make a bathroom rug of a specific dimension from “mop cotton”. I wove it and then washed it in hot water and it shrunk by about 20%! Duh... So, I took a large batch of mop cotton and pre-washed it to deal with the shrinkage and then wove a new rug. Older but wiser? What do you love most about the work you do? What’s the most challenging? I am confident that the rugs I make will last for many years! It pleases me to see my rug in a friend’s house that has been there for five years and still looks very good. In all honesty, the greatest challenge is in selling at a fair price when competing with Walmart products at roughly half the price. What advice do you have for aspiring artisans? Have patience. Producing a satisfactory product requires a learning curve, and you might have to grind your way through some tough spots. Do it and you will get that feeling of satisfaction with the finished item.

PHOTOS BY STEADFAST IMAGES

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JAMES MCKISSIC

[ PERFECTING A CRAFT ]

Can you describe your journey with fiber arts? I started working with fiber arts about seven years ago, but I think the seeds were planted much earlier. I grew up in a home where my mom sewed a lot of our clothes and costumes, so fabric, thread, and making things by hand were always around me. I knew the basics of sewing, but weaving was something I had always wanted to learn. I finally bought my first little frame loom just a couple of months before everything shut down during the pandemic. The timing couldn’t have been better. Suddenly, I had the time to really sit with it, teach myself, experiment, and figure out what I could do with yarn and a loom. Eventually, that little frame loom led to bigger looms, more complicated weaving, and a much deeper love for fiber. What types of products do you make and why do you gravitate toward those? I mostly create tapestries, wall hangings, and woven yardage – pieces that can be displayed and experienced almost like paintings or sculptures. I think I gravitate toward that kind of work because it gives me room to tell stories through color, texture, pattern, and materials. I love the idea that textiles can be both beautiful and carry meaning. Right now, I’m working on a quilt made from my late partner’s dashikis. It’s a very different kind of project for me, but it feels like a natural extension of where my work has been going. I’m taking clothing that holds memories of someone I loved and turning it into something new – something that can hold those memories in a different way.

What is one misconception about fiber arts, and what do you want people to know about the craft? There is a fiber art for everyone, you just have to find the one or two or three that resonate with you.

Do you have any memorable moments from any of your projects? One of the most memorable experiences for me has been being part of the ongoing statewide exhibition "Crafting Blackness: 100 Years of Black Craft in Tennessee." I don’t think I’ll ever get over walking into the gallery and seeing my work exhibited in the same rooms as a sculpture by William Edmondson. He’s an artist I’ve admired for a long time and such an important trailblazer for Black artists, Southern artists, and self-taught artists. It's an honor to be included among the generations of Black makers who came before me and be connected to the traditions we inherit, build on, and make our own. To have my work included as part of that larger story of Black craft in Tennessee was incredibly meaningful to me.

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PHOTOS BY HACKER MEDIAS

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[ PERFECTING A CRAFT ]

M IC H AEL GOODSON

Can you describe your journey with fiber arts? I learned to sew in college when I was offered a job selling sewing machines, if I learned to sew. From there I made my sport coats, and later I sewed for my wife, daughter, and other family members. As my daughter grew, I was asked to provide costumes for many plays and regional theaters across the South. I was asked to reproduce two of the gowns from “Gone With the Wind” (GWTW) for a 60th anniversary fashion show in Atlanta – one of which was displayed in the Marietta GWTW Museum. From the museum connection, my wife and I became friends with many old Hollywood stars and fashion designers globally. After retiring from teaching nuclear chemistry, my wife and I, who were over our seniors’ program at church, started a quilting ministry for our seniors to pass on their quilting skills to the next generation. That project blossomed to a program where we make lap quilts for cancer and dialysis patients, the elderly in nursing homes, veterans, deployed active military around the world, and masks and surgical caps during the pandemic – whatever the Lord puts before us.

What is your creative process? I start with a general project in mind but actually let the fabric guide me. I may have an idea, but the fabric always says, "You want WHAT? I don't think so!"

Do you have a favorite piece you’ve ever made? From costuming, my favorite piece was when actress Morgan Brittany (who retired after the TV show “Dallas” to start her family and who played Scarlett O'Hara in three movies) asked me to make her favorite gown from GWTW – the red and white dressing gown where Rhett carries Scarlett up the stairs. All the other gowns I have reproduced – the burgundy gown, the green curtain gown, and the barbecue party dress – still exist (though in vaults now). I or others have been able to photograph and/ or take measurements of those to recreate. The red dressing gown does not exist, so I had to reproduce that gown fully from photos only. I made that gown specifically for Morgan, to her measurements. It remained in the GWTW museum for two years, but Morgan has it displayed at her home now. What is one misconception about fiber arts, and what do you want people to know about the craft? It's okay for men to sew, too. I tell guys all the time, “Sewing is just like when I do woodworking. It's just another medium.”

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PHOTOS BY ANH BAO TRAN-LE

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[ PERFECTING A CRAFT ]

KAY VON SADRABADI

Can you describe your journey with fiber arts? My first exposure to rug weaving began when I visited my cousin in Yazd, Iran, as a child. Her family had set up a loom to keep her busy over the summer, and I remember being mesmerized as I watched her tie knots. Eventually, I tried tying a few myself and was fascinated by how those knots, combined over time, created patterns that told their own unique story. Iranian rugs are beloved for their quality, materials, and the masterful way color and design come together. Years later, after moving to the U.S. and eventually Chattanooga, I attended UTC while working at an oriental rug store called Massoud’s Persian Corner. Over the course of 12 years there, I gained formal training in weaving, cleaning, and restoring rugs. Those years, paired with my childhood memories, sparked a lifelong passion I still carry with me. My journey has continued to evolve – from learning every aspect of rug weaving to becoming deeply invested in education. Rug weaving in Iran has existed for thousands of years and is recognized worldwide for its excellence. Yet, due to geopolitical challenges, the industry is now in serious decline. Part of my mission has become sharing knowledge and promoting this art form to a new generation around the world.

What is one misconception about fiber arts and what do you want people to know about the craft? Fiber arts are not masculine or feminine – art is simply art. If it interests you, pursue it without hesitation. Don’t chase perfection; instead, pursue excellence and let the work guide you. There’s an old saying: “only God is perfect.” Every handwoven piece has its flaws, and those small nuances are often what give it character and charm. Our eyes naturally appreciate subtle variations.

What types of products do you make? I make hand-knotted or hand-woven rugs. I gravitate toward rug restoration thanks to my time at the rug store. Understanding the many types of weaves, each requiring authentic repair methods, was a challenge. To bridge my own knowledge gaps, I spent three and a half years researching and ultimately wrote an eBook on identifying rugs by their weave. I also created a website dedicated to educating future rug enthusiasts (bofandeh.com). To demonstrate different weave structures, I wove numerous samples myself, which appear throughout the book. Is there anything you'd like to add? Working with your hands improves mental health, reduces stress, and engages the brain in a meaningful, multisensory way. It’s easy to lose yourself in the process for hours – much like meditation. In a world full of busy lives and constant noise, it is therapeutic to immerse yourself fully in creating something. Come on in – the water’s fine.

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[ PERFECTING A CRAFT ]

M I KE EL L IS

Can you describe your journey with fiber arts? At scout camp in 1998, a bunch of us first-years in troop #351 (The Purple Chickens) got together and started learning knots. We started with the reef knot and the bowline, and we made a game of it. Different colors of ropes were status symbols that showed off your knot tying prowess. You could challenge someone to tie a knot based on their rope color and the list we created, and if they could not tie it properly and explain its use, they went back down to the pink rope and had to work their way back up from the bottom of the list of knots. Nowadays, I enjoy learning new techniques with ropemaking, braiding, weaving, and knot-tying. What types of products do you make and why do you gravitate toward those? My two favorite types of pieces to make are shepherd slings and ropes. The shepherd slings rabbit hole started eight years ago while I was teaching hunter education for sixth graders. My friend who was helping me with the class challenged me to a sling-off at the end of the course, and while I was preparing for that, I made my first sling. My mother-in-law crocheted the pouch, and it was very basic. I was seriously impressed with how well it worked, so I started researching how different cultures made slings throughout history. Slings from Peru and Bolivia are my favorite because of the braiding style and use of color. Nowadays, I mostly make them out of paracord because it's incredibly durable and easier to do four-strand braids than 24-strand braids. Twisting rope is satisfying and useful. You can make your own rope using a tent stake and a power drill. I use the ropes I make as lanyards for name-badges, basic household tasks, and for ply-split braiding projects.

What is one misconception about fiber arts, and what do you want people to know about the craft? Many people tie their shoes wrong (granny knot). The granny knot is the weaker version of the reef (square) knot that most folks use to tie their shoes.

What do you love most about the work you do? What’s the most challenging? I love giving projects as gifts. I love trying new things and learning new techniques. Currently, I've been using knotwork to make insects including dragonflies, bees, and ants. I like being able to choose what kind of experience I have while doing fiber arts: if I want to challenge myself, I can try an intricate weaving project. If I'm looking to relax I can make simple keychain lanyards.

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PHOTOS BY ANH BAO TRAN-LE

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The Making of a Gentleman Photography by Kristina Armstrong | Shot on location at Chanticleer Inn

While every Southern gentleman walks a unique path, an underlying dedication and determination fuels each journey. A variety of people, principles, and passions come together to influence us along the way. In their own words, four men share the experiences and values that have guided them to where they are today.

My wife, Merrile, and I met on a blind date 40 years ago. Our mothers had a mutual friend who set us up. Then, in 1995, we moved to Chattanooga and got involved in a church, where we remain connected today. Our first of four daughters started kindergarten at CCS in 1996, and after 52 years of tuition, I now have the privilege of working there part-time. I am also privileged to do foundation work with friends I have known for decades. Along the way, relationships like these have continued to shape our lives. In early 1996, I joined a small group with several men one Friday morning, and it is something I still look forward to every week! These relationships, and so many others we have formed over the years, have made all the difference in our lives. Without them, where would we be? I know these relationships did not happen by chance. They were given to us by a loving, gracious Father. You might say He is the perfect gentleman. Thanks be to God for His amazing gifts! John Stroud

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CITYSCOPEMAG.COM •

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[ THE MAKING OF A GENTLEMAN ]

Being born in Albany, Georgia, in the early ‘60s gave me a firm foundation for life. I was surrounded by people who loved, supported, and nurtured me. My parents, family, and extended family gave me a safe space to develop and grow. After graduating from high school, I enlisted in the U.S. Air Force. The discipline, honor, and camaraderie with fellow military members reinforced the values instilled in me in South Georgia. While stationed in Beale AFB, California, I met my best friend and wife, Laura. She is a huge influence on how I view the world and my role in our family and our community. Since retirement from the military, we are committed to ensuring our children, grandchildren, and extended family members know that paying it forward is not an option; it’s who we are and what we do. Wayne Brown Director of Partner Engagement, The Samaritan Center

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Land Specialist, 2026 Realtors Land Institute National President 35 Years of Experience 615.815.9364 TheLandMan@GeoffHurdle.com

[ THE MAKING OF A GENTLEMAN ]

I grew up in North Philadelphia and moved to Knoxville at 14 to live with my aunt. At 17, I made my way to Chattanooga to attend UTC. I came here for college, but over the years, Chattanooga became home. My earliest examples of service came from my parents. Whether cleaning our street, helping someone apply for a job, or simply showing up when a neighbor needed help, they believed in caring for people. My dad often told me, “Son, take care of your community because one day you may need your community to take care of you.” I’ve carried those words with me, and they remain at the foundation of how I think about community service. I’ve been fortunate to have great mentors, personally and professionally, who challenged me, advocated for me, and held me accountable. Those relationships have reminded me that none of us gets very far on our own and that we have a responsibility to invest in others, just as others have invested in us. Marcus Cade-Johnson Director of Corporate Engagement, TVFCU

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[ THE MAKING OF A GENTLEMAN ]

I was raised by loving parents who taught me that anything worth doing was worth doing the right way. I learned to approach life with grit and determination, a hardworking attitude, and a desire to live a life that makes others proud. I started my legal career almost 20 years ago, and I quickly learned that – in addition to those qualities – I would need heavy doses of dependability, wit, humor, trustworthiness, genuineness, compassion, and the ability to portray calmness amidst the chaos of life and work. Early in my career, one of my mentors unwittingly gave me perhaps the best advice when we were faced with a new problem. He simply told me that I needed to "figure it out" and not "screw it up." I've continued to approach life's challenges with that mantra, and all the while have tried to remember to bring joy, have fun, and not take myself too seriously. Justin Furrow Shareholder, Chambliss Law

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Garage Kings For some Southern gentlemen, the modern garage has evolved far beyond a place to park the car, becoming a space for hobbies, entertaining, and a little well-earned escape. From golf simulators and lounge areas to classic cars and more, these unique spaces are filled with luxuries that give men the space to slow down, relax, and recharge. Here, we meet four local men and step inside their garages to see how they make these spaces uniquely their own. By Ali Lemmons | Photography by Creative Revolver

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Work Hard, Play Hard TRAVIS OWENS After purchasing a unit at Homebase, what started as an “empty shell” quickly turned into the garage escape of Travis Owens’ dreams.

[ GARAGE KINGS ]

“I wanted to create a space for both work and play, used to entertain clients, employees, and friends alike,” says Owens. The mezzanine level boasts a home office where Owens works daily. After a hard day’s work, he only has to head downstairs to practice his swing at his golf simulator or catch up on his favorite shows in the lounge area, often accompanied by a friend or two. Owens also wanted the garage to reflect his personality and interests. “I’m an outdoor enthusiast, and I have displayed some of my most memorable hunts, as well as some of my golf awards, throughout the years,” shares Owens. “I also have a wall filled with photos of my family and some of the artwork my kids have made for me up in my office. These are things I look at every day to remind me of why I go to work every day.” During the building process, one of the biggest challenges Owens encountered was dealing with underground utilities in the space. Owens and his team had to cut into the concrete, modify electrical service lines, and reroute plumbing to accommodate the design. “We had to shut down power to several other units and individually go into other spaces to ensure everything was working appropriately,” adds Owens. “It was a pain, but we got to meet our great neighbors!” While Owens has countless memories in his garage, one of his favorites was in January of this year. “It was my birthday weekend, and it was supposed to snow like crazy,” shares Owens. “I had a few of my buddies come over with generators, food, and drinks to prepare for the ‘snowpocalypse.’ We were prepared to be snowed in for at least a couple of days. It turns out we didn't get more than a minor dusting, but we stayed up all night playing golf in the simulator and eating junk food like we were in middle school. It was one of the most fun weekends I can remember.” For those looking to create a luxurious garage space of their own, Owens advises: “Make it your own. This is my happy place, and it's completely customized to what makes me happy and feel at peace. Every man needs a space where they can relax and unwind.” 92 • C I T Y S C O P E M A G . C O M

PHOTOS BY DANIEL NEUHOFF/CREATIVE REVOLVER

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1

From Storage to Sanctuary PHILIP BRYAN When Philip Bryan first purchased his garage unit at Homebase, it was intended for extra storage for items that he and his wife, Jan, didn’t have room for at home; however, after retiring, Bryan realized how much more useful the space could be.

[ GARAGE KINGS ]

“Several friends and neighbors had golf simulators, and since I enjoy golf, I started wondering if we could make one work in our unit,” says Bryan. “That was really where it all began.” The Bryans started by adding the golf simulator, and other updates eventually followed. Among other amenities, the unit boasts a lounge area, kitchenette, workout space, bathroom, and a mezzanine with additional seating. “Jan has a great eye for design, and she helped turn what could have simply been a golf space into something comfortable and inviting,” adds Bryan. “Before long, we had created a complete man cave.” Golf-related artwork lines the walls, as well as an Auburn Tigers flag, paying homage to the Bryans’ favorite team. Sleek furniture and floating shelves with tasteful décor further complete the space. “The garage is a great combination of both of our design choices,” says Bryan. “It feels masculine and relaxed without feeling like a typical garage.” While designing the space, the biggest challenge the Bryans faced was fitting so many different uses into one long space, without making it feel crowded. “We had to carefully plan around the simulator while still allowing room for seating, entertaining, exercising, and storage,” says Bryan. “Taking it one area at a time helped everything come together.” Looking back on the transformation, one of Bryan’s favorite parts was watching a simple storage unit gradually become a place he and Jan could genuinely enjoy, and the result is something the couple will continue to cherish. “What makes this project special is that we took a space we already owned and gave it an entirely new purpose,” says Bryan. “Instead of simply storing things there, we created a place to enjoy our interests, entertain friends, and spend time together.”

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PHOTOS BY CHRIS HENDRIX/CREATIVE REVOLVER

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Blending the Past and Present JOSH CAIN When Josh Cain purchased his property in 2015, it came with a familiar piece of Ooltewah’s history: Plott’s Repair Shop, an old mechanic’s garage that operated from the 1950s to the late 1990s.

[ GARAGE KINGS ]

Rather than tear it down, Cain and his family chose to preserve the garage’s history and character while also updating the space to give it new life. “For many locals, the former repair shop was a beloved part of the community, so preserving its history was important to us,” shares Cain. “While we updated the building and brought it into the present, we were careful to hold onto the details that made it special, including the original hand-painted Champion Spark Plugs sign that still remains on the exterior.” Today, that old repair shop houses the offices for Cain Development, the groom’s lounge for The Gray Dove, and a comfortable and inviting place for the Cain family to enjoy. For a family known for its businesses, sports legacy, and strong family ties, the garage has become a place where all those interests come together. “What makes the garage so unique is its versatility,” adds Cain. “It seamlessly blends business, entertaining, and our personal interests all under one roof. It's a place where we can work, gather with family and friends, and enjoy our passion for classic cars – all while surrounded by a piece of local history.” Over the years, Cain and his family have filled the space with pieces that have caught their eye and reflect their interests. Rustic signs, a bar made out of the hood of a car, and vintage motorcycles hung on the wall add to the garage’s rustic atmosphere, while a pool table, flat-screen TV, and retro arcade games offer plenty of entertainment. “The garage already had a vintage charm of its own, so we embraced it,” says Cain. “The result is a reflection of the things we love most – a mix of nostalgia, character, and, of course, plenty of classic muscle cars.” From family gatherings to afternoons spent admiring classic cars, Cain and his family have made countless memories in the garage, but some of the most meaningful moments come from sharing the space with the community that remembers what it once was. “Over the years, people have stopped to take photos, reminisce about the past, and even gift us hand-drawn paintings of the building,” says Cain. “Those moments are a special reminder that this garage is more than just a space – it's a piece of Ooltewah's history.” 96 • C I T Y S C O P E M A G . C O M

PHOTOS BY CHRIS HENDRIX/CREATIVE REVOLVER

Q U A L I T Y C U STOM H OM E S T H AT

A L L E X P E C TAT I O N S

Brother-Owned and Dedicated to Serving the Greater Chattanooga Area for 20+ Years 6 4 0 7 S N O W H I L L R O A D , O O L T E W A H , T N 373 6 3 | 4 2 3 . 316 . 0 0 6 5 | C A I N D E V E L O P M E N T . O R G

Park, Play, & Repeat DAN CASE When Dan Case learned that Homebase was building private garages near his neighborhood, he jumped on the opportunity to own a unit before groundbreaking even began. As a longtime car enthusiast, he immediately saw the potential for a space of his own.

[ GARAGE KINGS ]

“Our garage is mainly used to store our collector cars, as well as prep them for car shows and a little maintenance,” shares Case. “We also use it as a hangout space for college and NFL football or movie nights.” While the unit was still empty, Case got to work transforming it into a functional retreat for his cars, hobbies, and spending time with family and friends. He worked with several teams to bring his vision to life, starting with a base coat on the floors for easy spill and chemical cleanups before adding the steel structure, framing, and finished interior. Rough pine was used to finish the walls, and the floor of the mezzanine was built to resemble the wood bed of an old pickup truck. “We also incorporated what we felt we would need to store the vehicles by adding a car lift,” says Case. “The mezzanine was a must to add additional square footage to the space, and we added a full bath so if you’re working on cars and need to shower and clean up, you can do that as well.” As a family of football fans, flags for the Oklahoma Sooners, Crimson Tide, and the Tennessee Volunteers line the space to represent all of their favorite teams. An avid collector, Case’s collection of vintage and neon signs are also displayed throughout the unit. Whether hosting friends or family or just dropping by to take a quick nap on the couch, Case has found plenty of ways to enjoy the space, but some of his favorite memories come from bringing the garage to life. “I think my favorite part of the garage was the process of building it and solving the problems that came along with it,” says Case. “We are so proud of how it turned out, and looking back at the process and the creativity to get it where it is today is so gratifying.” For those who are thinking of transforming their own garage, Case says to first: “Make a list of how you intend to use it, what you need to make it work, and what brings you joy and happiness to spend time there.”

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PHOTOS BY BEKAH BERRY/CREATIVE REVOLVER

Southern-Style Homes Homes and Properties That Embrace and Enhance Southern Lifestyles Set among rolling hills, sparkling lakefront vistas, breathtaking panoramic mountain views, and flourishing farmlands, the homes in this collection showcase authentic styles available across Southeast Tennessee and North Georgia. Featuring charming amenities and prime locations, these homes demonstrate the highest level of architecture and design with elements genuine to the South.

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“A man travels the world over in search of what he needs and returns home to find it.” - George Augustus Moore

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Countryside Charm — 670 Maine Avenue, Wildwood, GA

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T

his stunning gentleman’s farm sits on 174 acres of gorgeous Georgia countryside, offering nature views, modern comfort, and privacy. Custom built in 2019 with no detail missed, enjoy luxurious country living within 25 minutes from Chattanooga. The exterior stuns in Hardiplank and brick, with wrap-around covered porches complete with nature views – including the property’s pond. Inside, dark hardwood floors provide contrast to the crisp and clean white surroundings. The foyer leads to the office and living area on the right side and the dining room on the left. Continuing inside, the centrally located kitchen is a home chef’s dream, boasting custom cabinetry, top-of-the-line stainless steel appliances, a butler’s pantry, and more. The main level also has two guest bedrooms, as well as informal and formal living areas, for residents and guests to enjoy.

The roomy primary suite includes a large walk-in closet with a second set of laundry hookups, a spacious bathroom with a double-vanity, tiled shower and freestanding soaker tub, and French doors that lead out to the covered porch. Upstairs, enjoy an additional living area, a flex space that could serve as a playroom or office, and two additional bedrooms and bathrooms. There is plenty of storage opportunity throughout the home, including a walk-in attic on the second level and a large garage, complete with a bonus suite above. In the backyard, a sparkling gunite pool and covered patio area make the outdoor space perfect for relaxing during warm weather or entertaining friends and family. There are countless memories to be made on this timeless property that promises the quiet comfort of the countryside combined with modern living.

FEATURES: Peaceful home on 178 acres | 5,219 square feet | 5 bedrooms | 5.5 baths Attached 2-car garage | Bonus suite over garage | Gunite pool

JAY ROBINSON RobinsonTeam.com | Cell: 423.903.6404 Keller Williams Realty | Office: 423.664.1900

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A Stylish Sanctuary — 1708 Restful Drive, Soddy Daisy, TN 37379

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his brand new build located in the beautiful Serenity Cove neighborhood in Soddy Daisy is the perfect peaceful hideaway, while still being close to Chattanooga. With a modern design, quality finishes, and a great location, this home has it all. An elevated design and feel are present throughout the entire home. The outside of the home combines brick with black siding and detailing for a dramatic and eye-catching exterior. Beginning on the main level, enjoy a dedicated office space, an open-concept living area, kitchen, and the primary suite. The kitchen is sleek and modern, boasting Viking appliances, a butler’s pantry, and an oversize walk-in pantry. The primary suite is spacious and serene, with a walk-in closet with custom shelving and an en suite bathroom with

spa-like features, including a soaking tub, tile shower, and dual vanities with plenty of storage. Finally, a half-bath and laundry room offer convenience and additional storage space on the main level. Upstairs, two additional bedrooms await, each with an en suite bathroom perfect for hosting guests. Outside, enjoy views of the woods on the roomy covered porch, complete with a composite deck and aluminum railing for low-maintenance outdoor living. A two-car garage offers convenient parking and plenty of storage opportunity. No detail was spared in this space with beautiful hardwood floors, eightfoot doors, a stone fireplace, stunning chandeliers, and a private wooded backyard. Enjoy private, modern living just minutes from the marina or the city lights.

FEATURES: Brand new home in Serenity Cove | 2,778 square feet | 3 bedrooms | 4 baths Stainless-steel Viking appliances | Two-car garage

PAULA MCDANIEL Chattanoogatnrealestate.com | Cell: 423.667.2997 Real Estate Partners | Office: 423.362.8333

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Fashionable Fellas FOUR MEN SHARE THEIR HIGH-END FASHION COLLECTIONS

A

true collection involves more than an appreciation for beautiful things; it takes a discerning eye, a passion for the hunt, and the patience to wait for the right piece to come along. When it comes to fashion, that means curating distinctive, timeless items worthy of the investment. Here, four men showcase the fashion collections that have become an integral part of their closets and their lives. From watches to shoes and more, each carefully selected piece offers a glimpse into the personal style of the man behind it.

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PHOTO BY FINAL FLASH PRODUCTIONS

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[ FAS H I O N A B L E F E L L AS ]

Louis Brody Tell us about what you collect. When did you get started? I see a lot of different watches almost every day. My collection is very broad, from vintage to brand new. For instance, in my collection I have a 1952 Rolex Pre-Daytona up to a modern Patek Philippe Nautilus to a Rolex Day-Date Platinum, an Audemars Ghost, and everything in between. I got started pretty young being interested in watches but started a real collection about 20 years ago. Have you had any unexpected finds? Yes. The Rolex PreDaytona, and the most major one isn't a watch; it's actually a Patek Philippe solar clock from the 1950s, also in the original box and article from when it was released by Patek. Where do you usually find your items? All over the world. People call daily wanting to know if I'm interested in certain watches and just for general information concerning a watch.

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Do you view your items as a wearable art or as a financial investment? I don't really look at it as a financial investment because the market on most brands changes a lot, but some are definitely a work of art. The issue is the more complicated it is, the more things that can go wrong with it. What advice would you give to new collectors? Start small and be very cautious of imposters. Make sure you're buying from a reputable jeweler and get everything checked out before you buy. I strongly discourage buying anything off the internet. You never know what you're getting. Is there anything else you'd like to share? It's a fun hobby always seeing new things, and in my world, you never know what's coming in the door. But like I said above, just make sure you're getting authentic and all-factory watches. If you pick or desire certain watches, just do your research or have it checked out before you purchase it.

PHOTOS BY ANH BAO TRAN-LE

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[ FAS H I O N A B L E F E L L AS ]

Dallas Joseph Tell us about what you collect. When did you get started? Growing up in the late 1960s, my dad owned a jazz club. Back then, men and women dressed up when they went out at night, and appearance was part of the experience. I admired my dad for many reasons, but one thing that always stood out was how well dressed he was. He wore ties most nights in the club, and as a young boy I noticed the confidence and professionalism that came with that style. Because of that influence, ties have been part of my wardrobe for as long as I can remember. Where do you usually find your items? My wife and I love to travel, and wherever we go I make it a point to visit local clothiers and men's shops. Walking through stores in different cities and countries allows me to see a variety of styles, fabrics, and craftsmanship that I might not encounter at home. Many of the ties that I own were discovered while traveling and carry memories of those places and experiences. Are there any items that you would like to add to your collection someday? I would love to add a custom necktie

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crafted entirely to my specifications. The ability to choose the exact length, width, fabric, lining, and fold count would allow me to create a truly one-of-a-kind piece that reflects my personal style. Why is your collection important to you? My collection is an important part of my professional life. There is a saying in sports: "If you look good, you feel good. If you feel good, you play good." I think there is some truth in that. Getting dressed for work serves as a mental cue, much like an athlete's pregame ritual, signaling that it is time to perform at a high level. Wearing clothing that makes you feel confident improves your self-esteem, reinforces a positive self-image, and gives you a sense of control over how you present yourself to the world. Do you view your items as a wearable art of as a financial investment? I view them as wearable art rather than an investment. The enjoyment comes from the aesthetics, craftsmanship, and self-expression.

PHOTOS BY KRISTINA ARMSTRONG

[ FAS H I O N A B L E F E L L AS ]

Stacy Beaty Tell us about what you collect. When did you get started? I love high fashion. Clothes, watches, and shoes. Ever since I was in my teens, I have liked nice clothes. I always had a keen sense for detail, so I believe that’s why I gravitate towards the finest pieces.

Have you had any unexpected finds? My wife and I were in Lucerne, Switzerland, and I found a watch that I had been looking for but hadn’t been able to find. It is a Bovet 1822 Orbis Mundi World Timer. Bovet makes less than 1,000 watches per year.

Do you have a favorite item? My favorite item tends to be the newest addition to my collection. I just purchased a pair of Stefano Ricci Himalayan Crocodile loafers in Miami. They are some of the rarest shoes you will ever see. All of my clothes come from either Stefano Ricci or Kiton. Ricci's main facilities are in Florence and Kiton's are in Napoli.

Why is your collection important to you? As I mentioned, I have loved high fashion for years. I attribute it to the details that I am challenged with on a daily basis with my job where I swim in details, which bleeds over into my personal life. Henceforth, I look for the handmade products with extreme details which typically take hours and even weeks to make. Every piece is significant because when I wear it, it takes me back to when I purchased it and I’m reminded of the wonderful memories.

Where do you usually find your items? My wife and I have traveled all over the world including numerous trips to Italy, specifically Milan, Rome, Portofino, Florence, and Capri, as well as Paris where I have made great contacts. I have relationships with sales associates that I have met in Switzerland, Hong Kong, Macau, and Tokyo. In the states, it’s New York, Beverly Hills, Las Vegas, Chicago, and Miami for the most part.

PHOTOS BY FINAL FLASH PRODUCTIONS

Do you share this hobby with any family or friends? I have a good friend who just expanded his closet as he has many pieces that are one of a kind. We travel together and it’s always fun to shop at Stefano Ricci and Kiton.

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[ FAS H I O N A B L E F E L L AS ]

Matt Wilson Tell us about what you collect. When did you get started? I collect needlepoint accessories, especially belts. I started around 2022, drawn to the way a belt can be both useful and expressive – much like a men’s necktie or a woman’s scarf. It’s a small part of an outfit, but it can carry a surprising amount of personality. Over time, my collection has grown from needlepoint belts to sunglass straps to needlepoint luggage tags. I’ve also become more attentive to color balance, stitching, and how a design looks when worn. Often times needlepoint belts look better with the added character that comes with heavy use. And that is what we want. Do you have a favorite item? Belts are my favorite because they make getting dressed feel more personal without requiring much effort. You can wear a simple shirt and trousers, add an interesting belt, and give the outfit a point of view. Belts are the closest thing to an expressive women’s silk scarf in that they, at least my favorite ones, tell a story. One particular favorite is my Monteagle Sunday School Assembly needlepoint belt and

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the other needlepoint items in the collection. I think the belt explains and tells the story of this beloved 140-year-old Southern retreat better than any 10-page dossier. Where do you usually find your items? These days, I have pieces custom made overseas through relationships connected to my work. Being involved in the process is one of the pleasures of collecting. I can start with an idea, adjust the colors, refine the scale, and watch it become something I can wear. Why is your collection important to you? Needlepoint lets me add color, wit, and individuality without overcomplicating what I’m wearing. I’m drawn to pieces that feel distinctive rather than disposable – things with enough character to make me smile and enough durability to become part of my routine. My favorite fashion brand is FUBU from the '90s. I love how they were completely dialed in and totally in tune to their audience, and I strive to apply that same philosophy to my own sense of style.

PHOTOS BY ANH BAO TRAN LE

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ASK THE GENTLEMAN B

eing a Southern gentleman isn’t just

about dressing well and knowing which fork to use at a dinner party, so we asked The Gentleman to chime in and answer your most pressing etiquette questions. Here’s his expert advice on everything from checking in on friends to business meetings and more.

Q. I recently had an argument with my brother, and while I still think I was right, I know I said some things I shouldn’t have. Do I owe him an apology even if I didn’t start it? A. Being a true gentleman means doing the right thing – even when it’s hard. And in this case, whether you were correct or not, the right thing to do is apologize for losing your temper and letting your anger get the better of you. That means forgetting about your pride for the sake of your relationship with your brother. An apology doesn’t mean you have to pretend you were wrong about everything or take responsibility for something you didn’t do. It simply means owning your part in the argument. Hopefully, your brother will be willing to apologize for his part as well. But if not, at least you can let it go knowing that you did the right thing. Sometimes being the bigger man means making the first move and leaving the door open for reconciliation.

Q. My wife and I have different ideas about how much money we should spend on vacations. I’m more comfortable keeping things practical, while she likes to splurge. How can we meet in the middle? A. As gentlemen, there are times when waving the white flag is the wise thing to do, especially when it means making the woman you love happy. But marriage is a partnership, and when it comes to money, compromise and communication should carry more weight than either person getting his or her way. The truth is, vacations cost money, and there’s nothing wrong with spending a little more when you can afford it. The key is agreeing on what’s worth the extra cash. One solution could be choosing one thing to splurge on and remaining mindful of expenses for the rest of the trip. For example, booking the luxury hotel but keeping dining more casual, or booking the cheaper airline tickets for your getaway to an all-inclusive resort. You could also work out a budget together and then decide how much to allocate to each part of the trip. Remember, you’re on the same team! You have to work together if you both want to have a good time and enjoy your trip.

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Q. A friend recently helped me with a big project, and I want to do something to say thank you. What would be considered an appropriate gesture to show my gratitude? A. It’s great to have people to depend on when you need help, but it’s important to be willing to give it in return. The first thing I would do is make sure your friend knows that if he ever needs a hand, you’d be happy to return the favor. For most, that alone is sufficient, as dependability is highly valued in a friendship. Depending on how big the project was, a pack of his favorite beer and/or ordering a few pizzas while the game is on could be the perfect way to show your appreciation. If you want to go a bit further, a gift card to his favorite restaurant could be a suitable option. Don’t overthink it. A sincere “thank you,” and willingness to return the favor are what matter most. A good friend will appreciate knowing his help was valued.

Q. My buddy is going through a tough time, but he’s the kind of person who never talks about his feelings. How can I check in in on him without making him uncomfortable? A. It’s always important to check in on our loved ones, even when it may be a tad awkward or feel unfamiliar. Rather than making it feel like a conversation solely to discuss him and his feelings, try a more nonchalant approach. Invite him to grab a bite to eat, watch a game, or play a round of golf. Sometimes it’s easier to open up in the middle of another activity rather than a serious face-to-face conversation. You could start by being the first to open up and ask for his advice on one of your own dilemmas so he knows it’s okay to be vulnerable with you. Overall, I would prioritize consistency – that is, being a steady presence and regularly lending a listening ear – rather than trying to force him to let his guard down. In time, as he begins to feel more comfortable, he may start to confide in you. If not, that’s alright, too! Sometimes being a good friend simply means letting someone know you’re there and sticking around when times get tough.

Q. I’m attending a formal business dinner where I’ll be entertaining a potential client. How much of the conversation should be about business versus casual conversation? A. If it’s understood that you’re attending a business dinner, you can safely assume that a fair amount of time will be spent discussing business. However, a gentleman knows that while business may be the reason for the dinner, it shouldn’t be the only thing on the menu. Whether you’re trying to secure a new client or maintaining an existing relationship, it’s important to build a connection based on more than just business. Take time to learn about the person, find out about their interests, and ask about their lives. Those types of conversations can go a long way toward building trust, which is key for successfully building and maintaining clientele. Most importantly, follow the lead of your guest. If they’re eager to discuss business, stay with it. If they turn the conversation toward more personal matters, don’t be too quick to steer it back to work.

- The Gentleman CITYSCOPEMAG.COM •

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In Good Company Local Men Share Their Passion for Gathering By Abby Callahan

Whether gathered around a restaurant table or pool table, or sharing a hobby or Bible study, time with friends is simply time well spent. While men often pursue activities on their own, there’s something special about having a group to laugh with, learn from, and lean on. And those connections can make a real difference at work, at home, and in everyday life. Here, five local men’s groups share why they choose to gather in a world where good company can sometimes be taken for granted.

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The Bourbon Boyzzzzz

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hen Robert Slocum sees his group chat, the “Bourbon Boyzzzzz,” lighting up with texts, he knows the next guy’s night with Chris Barbiere, Joey Watson, and John Hoskins is not far away. It’s been this way since 2021, after they shared a bottle of bourbon at a housewarming. “Chris and I went to see Joey’s new apartment, and I’d brought along a bottle to celebrate the milestone,” Slocum recalls. “I was just getting into bourbon as a hobby – tasting and collecting different brands – so I shared my newfound interest with them. We then got the idea to make it a ritual, meeting once a month and bringing a new bottle to try together.” Though it’s only once a month, the group spends time between meetings planning and anticipating their next gathering – something they all agree is a major part of the experience. “We focus on finding and sharing rare and unique bottles,” Slocum explains. “We share the story of the ‘hunt’ and pour a glass (or two) to discover if we like it. So, it’s not just the meeting, it’s finding the bottles, picking a theme or activity, inviting new people, and feeling excited to see each other.” The group is also known for their friendly competitions. Whether it’s playing games – like Mario Golf, trivia, Crokinole, and Putt-Putt – or cheering for their favorite teams as they watch the latest MLB, NHL, or NFL game, the men savor each moment as if it were a dram.

Left to Right: Joey Watson, Robert Slocum, and John Hoskins Not Pictured: Chris Barbiere

“Sure, the bourbon is great, but it’s really about the moments spent connecting with the guys, sharing life updates, and laughing with and at each other,” Slocum chuckles. “Some of us are more introverted, so our get togethers are a good driver to keep us all accountable to see each other every month, when we might not otherwise.” For other men looking to strengthen friendships and start their own community group, Slocum encourages them to jump in. “Do it!” he finishes. “Make sure you put in the effort, and it doesn’t even have to be much. Not everyone has the same amount of free time, so when the bat signal lights up, answer the call in the best way you can.”

PHOTOS BY HACKER MEDIAS

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The B Team

I

[ IN GOOD COMPANY ]

n 1998, 10 young men independently gathered around their desire to study scripture and live their lives in a more Christ-like manner. But what began as a Bible study has become much more – a lasting brotherhood shaped by faith, friendship, and nearly three decades of walking through life together.

Left to Right: (Back Row) Ralph Mohney, George Mullinix, Ross Schram, Brad Wier, Phil Meadows, Bill Godbold, and Tom Plauche; (Front Row) Mark Campbell, Doug Gregory, and Scott Ferguson

“I would not trade anything for the bond that we enjoy,” smiles longtime member, Ralph Mohney. “This group has allowed me to develop the closest possible bonds with a very diverse group of men. There is nothing we wouldn’t do for one another, and the intentional study of God’s Word – especially when reinforced by their collective wisdom – has allowed my faith to thrive in a way that would not otherwise have been possible.” Acknowledging that they each have shortcomings and are “redeemed solely through the Grace of God and the sacrifice of his son, Jesus Christ,” the group fondly refers to themselves as the “B Team.” Every meeting, they share life updates, pray for others, work through a Bible study, and close in prayer. Early on, conversations involved parenting, work, and careers. Now, decades later and much wiser, the men continue to recognize blessings experienced each and every day, but their conversations have shifted to retirement, grandchildren, and health-related challenges. Conversations have always remained confidential.

“We’ve celebrated weddings, births of grandchildren, and other joyful moments together, but we’ve also walked alongside one another through the toughest of life’s challenges,” says founding member of the B Team, Brad Wier. “These men have supported me through a major career change and, years later, when my wife passed away. I’m really not sure I could’ve made it through without the prayers and loving support of my B team brothers and church community.” No matter what comes their way, the group says they want to keep the wisdom of Proverbs 27:17 as their guide: “Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.” "Being in this group has given me a clear understanding of what God's definition for what a real man would be," says group member, Mark Campbell. "I now know that God wants me to glorify Him, and I do that by being the best husband, father, family member, and friend that I can be." 118 • C I T Y S C O P E M A G . C O M

PHOTOS BY HACKER MEDIAS

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Southern British Car Club

T

[ IN GOOD COMPANY ]

hat distinct scent of aged leather; the mechanical growls of an old-school engine; and that feeling you get while driving with the top down is what the Southern British Car Club is all about. For longtime club members, Mike Flood and Mike Payne, it’s also about connecting with friends while restoring and preserving vintage cars. “The love of British Cars brought us together about 40 years ago,” Flood says. With some original members still participating, about 20 members meet monthly at Cambridge Square and caravan to car shows and competitions across the region. This year, members have traveled to Townsend and Rugby, Tennessee; Hiawassee and Atlanta, Georgia; Rogersville, Alabama; Dobson, North Carolina; and Sandusky, Ohio. “We really enjoy seeing club members receive recognition at a show,” says Flood. “In August, Doug Forquer and his 1962 MGA Coupe took home second place in its class at the MG International in Sandusky. His MGA competed against 12 other cars in a show with more than 400 vehicles.” Though awards are a highlight, Payne and Flood say the club is about more than what spectators see – like friendship, teamwork, and preparation. “Old British cars are not the most reliable,” explains Payne. “But they may be repaired on the side of the road with a group’s effort – including tools, spare parts, and a multitude of skilled mechanics. For example, several members recently traveled to a car show in Young-Harris, Georgia, in a group, not only for the camaraderie, but for support in case a problem occurs." “Helping each other work on British cars is a big support,” Flood agrees. “Not all members have the same mechanical expertise, but each shares their knowledge on various parts of the car, such as tuning the carburetors. We truly are fortunate that members give their skills and time for the benefit of the group.”

Left to Right: Jeff Warner, Michael Payne, Craig Miller, Mike Hemsley, Neil Long, Dave Sand, and Ryan Sand

More than preserving automobile history, Payne says the club is also helping to bridge social barriers and strengthen friendships between their members. “I personally know several people who have different ideas and beliefs from mine outside of British cars, but we leave them at the door and simply focus on helping one another and enjoy each other's company,” he finishes. “Outside of British cars, I’m not sure anything else would have made us cross paths, but I’m very grateful that we did.”

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PHOTOS BY RICH SMITH

Band of Reprobates “

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e’re just a bunch of guys that get together to tell each other we don’t know how to play pool,” laughs Jerry Farinash. Every week for the past five years, Farinash and 10 other men have gathered around the felt at the Chattanooga Billiard Club to play a game of nine ball. Part of a larger social league in Chattanooga with nearly 50 players, Farinash and his team fondly refer to themselves as a band of “reprobates.” “There are another 20 or so players that come and go in the league,” Farinash explains, “but some parts of the league have been meeting and playing regularly for 30 plus years. We have made a lot of very good friends on our team and on the other teams.” From accounting and construction to engineering and beyond, the men bring a wide range of backgrounds and professions to the group, as well as billiard experience. Team member Craig Worley chalks up their camaraderie to a winning combination of skill, inclusivity, and fun. “As a social league, people join us by a mixture of word of mouth, invitation, and recruitment,” he says. “However people come to join us, we’re always happy to rack up a game and share tips on how to improve our skills.” With such a big group, Farinash says there are many different pockets of community and fun gatherings throughout the year, including their annual league celebration that’s hosted by Shane Painter; various curling tournaments in the Chattanooga area; fishing trips to Columbia; and football kickoff parties. No matter the activity, their conversation always leads back to pool.

Left to Right: Darian Adams, Dewayne Condra, Craig Worley, Bill McCord, Jerry Farinash, Bob Bates, Shane Painter, and Mike Thacker; Not Pictured: Eric Kerley

“I can only remember one time in the span of five years that I’ve missed a game with the guys at the billiard club when I've been in town,” Farinash recalls. “Some of the best friends I have are in this league and on our team. When we’re together, we’re laughing, ribbing each other’s plays, and having a good time.” Worley couldn’t agree more. “At the end of the day, it’s really about the camaraderie,” he finishes. “Pool gives us a reason to get together, but it’s the competition, the close games, and those moments when everything comes down to the final shot that keep us coming back.” PHOTOS BY RICH SMITH

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Country Breakfast Club

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[ IN GOOD COMPANY ]

fter Stuart Bickley overcame gastric cancer, he and the doctor who helped save his life – and became a close friend – began meeting every Friday for breakfast at their local Cracker Barrel Old Country Store. What started as one-on-one conversations over hot coffee and biscuits nearly 30 years ago has grown into a group of five who meet regularly for community and fellowship.

Left to Right: Stuart Bickley, Zach Walley, George Mullinix, John Stroud, and Jeremy Miller

“A doctor friend of mine who incidentally and literally saved my life wanted to stay in touch after I was healed from stage four gastric cancer,” Bickley explains. “So, we started meeting Friday mornings for breakfast at the Cracker Barrel in Lookout Valley. Five folks show up now, and we simply focus on each other.” Today, Bickley, Zach Walley, John Stroud, Jeremy Miller, and George Mullinix share a simple belief: “Christians ought to carry each other’s burdens and celebrations.” Around their familiar table, they “meet to probe, discuss, and celebrate,” sharing life’s struggles and sorrows alongside its blessings and successes – and, of course, plenty of bacon and gravy. Over the years, their meetings have become a source of nourishment for their minds and souls, providing a safe place to communicate their struggles and provide encouragement, ultimately reminding them that they don't have to walk through life alone. “This group has helped me understand that we are members or pieces of a much bigger puzzle, or ‘body,’ and that other members can have keen, spiritually inspired insights and gifts that assist us in living life abundantly,” Bickley says. Walley, who joined 18 years ago, has experienced that support firsthand. “We are always there for each other, from moving furniture to attending children’s weddings and graduations, praying for one another, and offering advice on work and job opportunities,” he says. “This group has provided a wonderful place for all of us to support each other through life’s wins and losses.”

As laughter, prayer, and fellowship continue to surround them, the men encourage others looking for community to invite a friend to breakfast and see where it leads. “Just do it and enjoy the time with them,” Walley says. “Without this group, there are a number of relationships I would not have today.” The men would like to dedicate this feature to their friend and the group's founder, Dr. David Barnes, who now lives in Atlanta, Gerogia. 122 • C I T Y S C O P E M A G . C O M

PHOTOS BY RICH SMITH

FOOD & SPIRITS “FOOD IS OUR COMMON GROUND, A UNIVERSAL EXPERIENCE.” – JAMES BEARD

PHOTO BY KRISTINA ARMSTRONG

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BURGERS WITH A Nothing says the South quite like a perfectly grilled burger. While a classic bun, patty, and mayo combination is always a good idea, sometimes a unique ingredient or preparation method can take a burger to the next level. Here, four local gentlemen share their favorite twists on a classic burger and what makes each one special.

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ARMAND WINE’S

Southern Brunch Burger

“I’ve always had a deep appreciation for breakfast, and I’m just as happy enjoying it at lunch or dinner as I am in the morning. That’s what inspired this burger – the idea of bringing two favorites together in one dish. The crispy hash brown, fried egg, sharp cheddar, and maple bacon onion jam create the perfect balance of savory, sweet, rich, and comforting flavors.”

SEE RECIPE ON PAGE 132.

PHOTOS BY KRISTINA ARMSTRONG

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BOB NOLAN’S

[ BURGERS WITH A TWIST ]

Brown Sugar Salsa Burger

"The brown sugar salsa burger came from a recipe that my Aunt Theresa introduced to my wife and me more than 20 years ago. At the time, we were raising our three sons and doing our best to provide great family meals while staying within a tight budget. Over the years, they have become one of our favorite and most requested meals. Not only are they easy to prepare, but they are also incredibly flavorful and satisfying. This burger has been a staple at countless family dinners and has become a go-to meal whenever we host friends and guests. More than just a recipe, it has become a family tradition that brings people together around the table." SEE RECIPE ON PAGE 132.

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PHOTOS BY RICH SMITH

“We started Forza in 2018 without any experience — just a drive to learn and a belief in hard work. Over the years, that effort has grown into a family-operated business where teamwork is family. From our in-house craftsmen to our trusted subcontractors, everyone shares the same pride in delivering quality work and bringing our clients’ visions to life.”

PHOTO BY MELANIE FARMER @FARMERSPHOTO

- Owen & Jennifer Maclellan

BuildForza.com | 423-400-6357 | info@buildforza.com PHOTOS BY STELLA FITZGERALD

THANK YOU, CHATTANOOGA! Proudly supporting our community for 65 years and counting.

MICAH PRESSLEY’S

[ BURGERS WITH A TWIST ]

Smash Burger

“The best burgers aren’t rushed. Give the patties a good sear, let the flavors come together, and serve them straight from the grill while they’re still hot. This is a burger made for crisp weather, cold drinks, and football on the television, and it’s best enjoyed with friends.”

SEE RECIPE ON PAGE 132.

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PHOTOS BY RICH SMITH

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KEVIN BURKE’S

[ BURGERS WITH A TWIST ]

Not-So-Classic Cheeseburger

“I'm more of a traditional cheeseburger fan, but it doesn't mean you have to settle for boring and bland. This burger doesn't try to reinvent the classic cheeseburger – it just gives it a little more flavor and a lot more moisture. W Sauce, zesty Italian dressing and a blend of seasonings are mixed right into the beef before it hits the grill. It's finished the traditional way with American cheese, Vidalia onion, Grillo's pickle chips, mustard, and ketchup, all on a toasted white hamburger bun.” SEE RECIPE ON PAGE 133.

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PHOTOS BY KRISTINA ARMSTRONG

1901 BROAD STREET MONDAY-FRIDAY 8-5 423.517.7190 CHATTANOOGACLOSET.COM

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IN-HOUSE KITCHEN

Burger Recipes ARMAND WINE’S

BOB NOLAN’S

Yields 4 burgers

Yields 8 burgers

Ingredients

Ingredients • 2 lbs. 80/20 ground beef • 1 cup Mateo’s salsa • ½ cup brown sugar • 8 slices American cheese • 1 white onion, thickly sliced, to taste • 1 heirloom tomato, sliced, to taste • Lettuce, to taste • 8 brioche hamburger buns • Duke’s mayonnaise, to taste • Mustard, to taste • Grillo’s pickle slices, to taste

Southern Brunch Burger

[ BURGERS WITH A TWIST ]

For the maple bacon onion jam: • 8 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped • 1 medium yellow onion, diced • 2 Tbsp. maple syrup • 1 Tbsp. brown sugar • 1 Tbsp. apple cider vinegar • Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste For the burger: • 4 hash brown patties, cooked until crisp • 1½ lbs. 80/20 ground beef • Salt and black pepper, to taste • Garlic powder, to taste • 4 slices sharp cheddar cheese • 4 eggs • Butter, to taste • 4 brioche hamburger buns, lightly toasted Directions For the jam, cook the chopped bacon in a skillet until crisp. Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving a small amount of bacon fat in the skillet. Add the diced onion and cook over medium-low heat until soft and caramelized. Return the bacon to the skillet, then add the maple syrup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and black pepper. Cook for a few additional minutes until the mixture becomes thick and jammy. For the burger, prepare the hash brown patties until golden and crispy. Form the ground beef into four patties and season with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Cook on a skillet or griddle to desired doneness. During the final minute of cooking, top each patty with sharp cheddar cheese and allow it to melt. Fry the eggs over-medium so the whites are set while the yolks remain soft. Butter and lightly toast the brioche buns. To assemble, layer the bottom brioche bun with a crispy hash brown patty, cheddar cheeseburger, maple bacon onion jam, fried egg, and the top bun.

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Brown Sugar Salsa Burger

Directions Mix the ground beef, salsa, and brown sugar together, then form into ¼ lb. patties. (The amount of salsa and sugar can be adjusted as needed to achieve the right consistency. Just make sure the patties aren’t too loose or they’ll fall apart.) Grill your patties on a Blackstone griddle until they reach your preferred doneness. Right before you remove the patties from the grill, add the cheese and allow it to melt. Chop your veggies. Grab a bun, and build each burger to your liking with your favorite toppings. Bon appétit!

MICAH PRESSLEY’S

Smash Burger Yields 4 burgers Ingredients For the bourbon onion jam: • 3 large yellow onions, finely sliced • 2 Tbsp. butter • 1 Tbsp. olive oil • Salt and black pepper, to taste • Garlic powder, to taste • 1 cup brown sugar

• ¼ cup balsamic vinegar • Shot of bourbon (optional) For the sweet heat candied bacon: • 1 package thick-sliced bacon • Brown sugar, to taste • 1 tsp. black pepper • 1 tsp. red pepper flakes • 1 tsp. paprika For the burger: • 1 lb. 80/20 ground beef • Salt and black pepper, to taste • Garlic powder, to taste • 1 Tbsp. Worcestershire sauce • 4 slices sharp cheddar cheese • 4 brioche buns, toasted • Duke’s mayonnaise, to taste • Lettuce, sliced, for topping • Tomato, sliced, for topping Directions For the jam, finely slice your onions. Melt the butter and oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add in the onions and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and garlic. Stir occasionally. After about 30 minutes, add brown sugar and stir for about 2 minutes. Deglaze the pan with the balsamic vinegar and a shot of bourbon, if desired. Let it simmer until it reduces and becomes jammy. Be patient! Lay thick-sliced bacon on a wire rack. Rub with brown sugar, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and paprika. Place in a 400° oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the sugar is melted and the bacon is crisp. Let cool. For the patties, season your ground beef with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Add in the Worcestershire sauce, and form into 1 to 2-inch balls. Place the balls on a hot griddle or skillet, and using a burger press, flatten them as thin as you like. Add a good sharp cheddar cheese after you flip and let it melt. Serve on a brioche bun toasted on the griddle with mayo. Top the burger with lettuce, tomato, jam, bacon, and enjoy!

KEVIN BURKE’S

Not-So-Classic Cheeseburger Yields 3 burgers

Ingredients • 1 lb. 80/20 or 85/15 ground beef • 1 tsp. onion powder • ½ tsp. garlic powder • ½ tsp. Montreal steak seasoning + extra, for seasoning the outside of the patties • 2 tsp. Bear & Burton's W Sauce • 2 tsp. Kraft Zesty Italian Dressing • 3 slices American cheese • 3 regular white hamburger buns • 1 Vidalia onion, sliced, to taste • Grillo's pickle chips, to taste • Yellow mustard, to taste • Ketchup, to taste Directions Place the ground beef in a large bowl. Add the onion powder, garlic powder, ½ teaspoon Montreal steak seasoning, W Sauce, and Italian dressing. Using your hands, lightly combine the ingredients just until evenly distributed. Be careful not to overmix or overwork the beef. The less you handle it, the better. Divide the beef into three equal portions and gently form each into a patty. Lightly sprinkle additional Montreal steak seasoning on both sides of each patty. Preheat a gas grill to medium-high heat. Place the patties on the hot grill and leave them undisturbed to develop a good sear. The goal is to flip each burger only once. After flipping, continue cooking until the burgers reach an internal temperature of 160°. During the final minute of cooking, place one slice of American cheese on each patty. Close the grill lid for about 1 minute to allow the cheese to melt. Remove the burgers from the grill. Place both halves of each bun, cut-side down, directly on the same area of the grill where the burgers were cooked. Toast for approximately 1 minute, or until lightly browned. Place each cheeseburger on a toasted bun and top with sliced Vidalia onion, Grillo's pickle chips, yellow mustard, and ketchup.

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T H A N K YO U F O R

19 Years of Showing Up The 19th annual Celebration of Life & Hope brought our community together to do what it does best: show up for families who need us most. Because of you, the Austin Hatcher Foundation can provide an entire year of free care to 283 children and their family members — helping them thrive beyond childhood cancer.

PRESENTING SPONSORS

VIP SPONSORS

P L AT I N U M S P O N S O R S

Carol & Daniel Yim

SAVE THE DATE:

20th Celebration of Life & Hope - Sep 25, 2027 H AT C H E R F O U N D AT I O N . O R G

F I T FOR A C H E F KITCHEN DESIGNS AND ESSENTIALS FOR SOUTHERN GENTLEMEN

Expert craftsmanship, timeless design, and high-quality kitchen essentials provide the ideal landscape for crafting a perfect meal. Whether hosting friends after a round of golf, grilling for family, or simply cooking for one, what follows are a collection of kitchens and the staples that fill them – perfect for any Southern gentleman looking to whip up a five-star meal.

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SCARLETT’S CABINETRY

C U S TOM I Z E D C R A F T S M A N S H I P

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[ FIT FOR A CHEF ]

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Custom cabinetry adds depth and dimension to a kitchen space, such as these warm wood cabinets that contrast with the chartreuse paint and cool tones in the appliances and countertops.

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2

Unique metal elements around the kitchen tie the room together, complementing the existing industrial beams present in the home.

3

Sleek stainless steel appliances integrate seamlessly into the design, offering a modern look and feel and an upgraded cooking experience.

PHOTO BY BEKAH BERRY/CREATIVE REVOLVER

(423) 756-8555 | SCARLETTSCABINETRY.COM

(423) 756-1354 | THETILESTORE.NET

7 0 0 O V E R B R I D G E L A N E , C H AT TA N O O G A , T N 3 7 4 0 5

F O W L E R B R OT H E R S C O .

H A N D C R A F T E D HOM E G O OD S

[ FIT FOR A CHEF ]

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Reimagined from a rare Ernest Batchelder design, the 125th Anniversary Daffodil Chest from Stickley features a stunning design, handmade in quarter sawn white oak with a floral inlay crafted from cherry, maple, mahogany, and more. The cedar-lined interior makes it as practical as it is beautiful, providing extra storage and a statement piece for your kitchen or dining area.

2

The Oriflamme Hammered Copper Fire Table is handcrafted from natural copper and makes a beautiful option for outdoor entertaining during the cooler months. The burner delivers a full flame from edge to edge, and the propane tank stores neatly inside the base – delivering equal parts warmth and conversation starter.

3

The Artisan Collection from Cappadocia Rugs is hand knotted in hand spun wool with a traditional pattern in warm tans, soft blues, and earthy reds, bringing texture and timeless style. These handcrafted rugs come in a variety of sizes, allowing you to upgrade your kitchen or dining area no matter the size of the space.

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FINE FURNITURE

AREA RUGS

FIRE TABLES

PORCH SWINGS

First in Furniture since 1885 Chattanooga’s Favorite Fall Destination for Indoor & Outdoor Living

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FINDING NEW FLAVORS From Southern flavors to international cuisine and curated cocktails, check out these cookbook recommendations from four Chattanooga retailers.

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Eat Your Bourbon / Matt Jamie “Eat Your Bourbon is so much more than a cookbook; it's a lifestyle book with a cookbook inside! The perfect book for the man who enjoys bourbon, smoking meats, barbecue, and Southern cooking and hospitality!” – Michelle Wells, The Kitchen Collection

Spain: The Cookbook / Simone and Inés Ortega “Spain: The Cookbook is the sort of book that makes you want to invite people over and spend the afternoon cooking. It’s full of Spanish home recipes, from simple dishes for a weeknight to the kind of meal you’d linger over with friends.” – Yancey Kenna Martin, Mosaic Home

The Tucci Cookbook / Stanley Tucci "Stanley Tucci brings his signature charm to classic Italian cooking, blending approachable recipes with family traditions, beautiful photography, and a genuine love of good food. It’s a cookbook that feels just as at home on the coffee table as it does in the kitchen." – Jill Davis, Furnish

Friday Night Cocktails / A.J. Dean “We recommend Friday Night Cocktails because it makes the art of cocktails feel simple, seasonal, and approachable. It takes the guesswork out of choosing a drink and includes helpful details like glassware and garnishes, making it useful for both beginners and casual cocktail enthusiasts.” – Zeen Oehmig, Sophie’s Shoppe

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SERVING UP COMFORT FIVE LOCALS SHARE COMFORT FOOD RECIPES

Whether it’s a recipe from our childhood, linked to a favorite memory, or our go-to after a long day, the idea of “comfort food” can mean an array of different things. Here, five locals share their favorite recipes for when they are looking to feel a spark of nostalgia, comfort, and joy.

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RANDY FINNELL’S

SCRATCH BUTTERMILK BISCUITS WITH SAUSAGE GRAVY & FIXINGS

YIELDS 3-4 SERVINGS INGREDIENTS For the biscuits: • ¼ cup salted butter, chilled and grated + extra, to grease pan • 2 cups self-rising flour (White Lily unbleached red label preferred), sifted • ¾ cup buttermilk For the sausage gravy: • 1 sausage patty, chopped and browned • 2 Tbsp. bacon or sausage renderings • 2 Tbsp. self-rising flour • ½ cup milk • Salt and black pepper, to taste

DIRECTIONS Preheat the oven to 475°. Grease a 10-inch cast iron skillet with butter. Sift flour into a large mixing bowl. Grate ¼ cup butter directly onto the flour. Using a fork, cut the butter into the flour until it’s a coarse and loose crumble. Add the buttermilk to the flour/butter mixture and mix with a fork to form a soft dough ball. Lightly flour a surface to roll out the dough (you can use a baking cloth, aluminum foil, wax paper, or a clean countertop). Next, lightly flour a rolling pin and the dough ball, then gently roll the dough back and forth

PHOTOS BY RICH SMITH

with a rolling pin into ¼-inch thickness. Fold in half, then gently roll out again to ½-inch thickness. Dip a biscuit cutter in flour, cut the dough out in rounds, place in prepared skillet. Roll remaining dough back up and repeat rolling and cutting until all dough is used. Bake 15-20 minutes to a light golden brown. For the gravy, add cooked sausage and the bacon or sausage renderings to a skillet on medium heat and stir in flour quickly to form a paste. Brown only slightly and then whisk in the milk. Cook for 2-3 minutes to desired thickness, and add salt and pepper to taste. Gravy will thicken as it cools, so don’t overcook it. Serve biscuits and top them with gravy to enjoy!

“Homemade biscuits and gravy have always been at the heart of our family’s weekend country breakfast. I remember my mother making biscuits every morning for my father and me, and she continued that custom for over 70 years. Today, my wife, Kelley, and I continue the tradition by doing a country breakfast most Sundays and on holidays with our family. Biscuits are such a staple that our son, Corey McEntyre, started his own successful restaurant in Waco, TX, from family biscuit recipes and his own personal touch. I hope you and your family make and enjoy this comfort food together as much as my family has over the years.” – Randy Finnell

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JON WOODS’

BEET & CHORIZO NEAPOLITAN PIZZA YIELDS 1-2 SERVINGS

[ SERVING UP COMFORT ]

INGREDIENTS For the pizza dough: • 180g Tipo 00 flour + extra for dusting working surface • 115g water • ½ tsp. instant dry yeast • 5g salt For stretching out the dough: • Semolina flour to dust the work surface (do not add to dough mixture) For the sauce: • 1 (28-oz.) can San Marzano tomatoes • 1 Tbsp. olive oil • 5g salt For the toppings: • ¾ cup chorizo • 4 thin beet slices (red, yellow, or a combination) • ½ russet potato • Splash of olive oil • 75g buffalo or fresh mozzarella cheese • ¼ cup pine nuts, thinly sliced • Fresh basil, for finishing

DIRECTIONS The night before you’re ready to bake, combine flour, water, yeast, and salt by hand or in a stand mixer. Knead for 6-8 minutes, until smooth and elastic. Shape into a ball, place in a bowl, cover, and let rise at room temperature for at least 12 hours. The next day at 1 hour before baking, gently press the dough to release the air bubbles. Lightly flour your working surface with the semolina flour and shape dough into a tight ball by pulling the dough over itself and twisting to create surface tension. Cover and let rest at room temperature.

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Heat a pizza oven to its highest temperature and allow it to preheat for at least 30 minutes – the hotter, the better. If using a conventional oven, place a pizza stone or steel inside and preheat thoroughly. Cooking time will vary depending on temperature. Next, strain tomatoes to remove excess liquid. Combine tomatoes, olive oil, and salt. Blend with an immersion blender for a smooth sauce, or mash with a fork for a more rustic texture. Next, prepare your toppings. Brown the chorizo in a pan and set aside. Thinly slice the beets and potatoes, toss with a little olive oil, then cook covered in foil at 400° for about 10 minutes in the oven or air fryer. Aim for slices about the same thickness. Measure cheese and pine nuts and set aside. Finally, dust a clean, non-porous surface with semolina flour. Gently stretch the dough, taking care not to deflate the outer edge, and leave a slightly thicker rim for the crust. Put the stretched dough on a lightly semolinafloured pizza peel. Add sauce and all toppings except pine nuts (be careful not to overload it or it will be difficult to transfer). Finish with a generous sprinkle of pine nuts, which will become beautifully toasted in the oven. Bake for 3-8 minutes, depending on your oven temperature, until the crust is puffed and golden brown. Let cool briefly, then finish with fresh basil and serve!

“When looking back in life, it's hard to think of a bad time when pizza was had; it was either enjoyed at some celebration, or simply having a nice evening with family and friends. My Uncle Steve built a pizza oven in his backyard and watching him make pizza inspired me to take it up on my own. This exact pizza is a take on foods I had on a trip to Australia with my wife and brings back fun memories abroad. The use of root vegetables adds earthy flavors, while the chorizo brings spice, and the pine nuts add a finishing crunch.” – Jon Woods

PHOTOS BY RICH SMITH

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NICOLAUS WHITE’S

NACHOS YIELDS 2 SERVINGS INGREDIENTS [ SERVING UP COMFORT ]

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1 lb. ground beef or ground turkey 1 tsp. garlic powder ½ tsp. pink sea salt 1 packet of taco seasoning (any brand) 1 jar, can, or block of queso blanco (any brand) 1 bag Doritos Spicy Nacho Four-cheese Mexican shredded cheese, to taste Jalapeños, preferably pickled, to taste Sour cream, to taste

DIRECTIONS Start by browning and seasoning your meat of choice in a skillet until you no longer see pink. Heat up your queso blanco either on the stovetop or in the microwave. Once that's done, take two plates or bowls and evenly divide your Doritos. Halve and disperse your meat onto the Doritos and sprinkle on your shredded cheese. Finally, pour the hot, melted queso blanco on top and garnish with jalapeños and sour cream to serve.

“Nachos are my comfort food for a lot of reasons. One, they’re easy to make and you can make them in so many different ways. But really, I think I started liking nachos when my wife and I first moved out together. You know when you get your first place, money can be tight at first, but those first few memories stick with you. Nachos quickly became our go to, and I often look back on our nacho nights and smile. Even now, anytime I go to a restaurant that has nachos, I'm like yep, let me get the nachos!” – Nicolaus White 146 • C I T Y S C O P E M A G . C O M

PHOTOS BY KRISTINA ARMSTRONG

JEREAMY BOGGARTY’S

RIBS THAT TAKE ME HOME

INGREDIENTS For the ribs: • 2 racks baby back or St. Louis-style ribs • 2 Tbsp. yellow mustard • 2 Tbsp. brown sugar • 1 Tbsp. smoked paprika • 1 Tbsp. chili powder • 2 tsp. garlic powder • 2 tsp. onion powder • 1 tsp. black pepper • 1 tsp. kosher salt • ½ tsp. cayenne pepper (optional) • ½ cup apple juice • ¼ cup apple cider vinegar For the sauce: • ½ cup barbecue sauce • 2 Tbsp. honey

DIRECTIONS Begin by removing the thin membrane from the back of the ribs. Pat them dry and then lightly coat both sides with mustard (this isn't really for flavor – it just helps the seasoning stick). Mix the brown sugar and seasonings in a bowl and use them to generously coat the ribs on both sides. Let the ribs sit for 30-60 minutes while you get the grill ready. I prefer to marinate mine overnight. While the ribs cook, you want indirect heat, so set your grill to around 275°. Be sure to push the charcoal to one

PHOTOS BY KRISTINA ARMSTRONG

[ SERVING UP COMFORT ]

YIELDS 4-6 SERVINGS

side and place the ribs bone-side down, away from the direct heat/coals. If I’m smoking my ribs, I like to use pecan wood. Next, mix the apple juice and cider vinegar together and lightly spritz the ribs every 45-60 minutes. Try not to constantly open the lid so the grill stays around 275° and smoke/grill the ribs for about 2½ hours. After roughly 2½ hours, wrap each rack tightly in heavy-duty foil. Before sealing, add a couple tablespoons of the apple juice mixture inside the foil. Put them back on the grill for 60-90 minutes. When finished, carefully unwrap the ribs. Mix the barbecue sauce with the honey and brush it generously over both sides. Put the ribs back over indirect heat, uncovered, for about 15-20 minutes until the sauce gets sticky and caramelized. For extra char, move them over direct heat for 1-2 minutes per side at the very end (watch them closely because the sugar can burn quickly). Take them off the grill and let them rest for 10-15 minutes. Slice between the bones and serve with extra barbecue sauce, or no sauce at all.

“Every time I taste barbecue ribs, I’m taken back to those summer days with my father – the warmth of the sun, the smell of the grill, and the quiet comfort of simply being together. There was something so peaceful about those days, when life felt slower and happiness was found in the simplest moments. Some memories don’t just live in your heart; sometimes, they live in a flavor, a smell, and a taste that brings you home.” – Jereamy Boggarty CITYSCOPEMAG.COM •

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Wine Tasting 101 Whether you’re new to drinking wine or have existing wine knowledge, this wine tasting guide will help you build your confidence in tasting and talking about wines. By Kristen Dee

How to Approach a Wine Tasting A wine tasting can sound intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. Approaching the tasting in four main steps – look, smell, taste, and think – can simplify the process and help you begin to identify a wine’s characteristics.

Look: See what you initially observe about the wine’s appearance before you taste it. Wines vary in color, opacity, and viscosity, and these factors can indicate the kind of grapes used, if the wine has been aged, and if it’s light, medium, or full-bodied . For wine beginners, just observe what you initially see in the glass, like the color and its depth. Smell: When smelling wine, start with broad categories like fruit, spices, or florals. Then see if you can narrow it down further into specifics, like lemon, cinnamon, or rose. Are the aromas delicate or intense? Do you smell a couple different notes or many notes all at once? Taste: Our taste buds categorize tastes into four distinct categories – bitter, sour, salty, and sweet. Start by taking a small sip of the wine and notice what immediately comes to mind. Think: Start to make associations and develop a profile of the wine.

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These four steps can help you determine specific characteristics within the wine. Along with these four steps, you can also determine a wine’s sweetness level on a scale from dry to sweet. The level of sweetness in a wine comes from the amount of residual sugar, which is the amount of sugar left over after the fermentation process along with any added sugars during the winemaking process. Where a wine lands on the dry to sweet scale is determined by the amount of residual sugar, the taste, and also the mouthfeel – dry wines will leave your mouth feeling dry, while sweet wines will coat your mouth and leave a lingering sweetness after swallowing. The amount of residual sugar also affects the wine’s alcohol levels – wines with more residual

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sugar tend to have lower alcohol by volume (ABV). Wines such as brut Champagne, sauvignon blanc, cabernet sauvignon, and Bordeaux will often be on the dry side of the scale, while riesling, muscat, Lambrusco, and port wines are sweeter.

Identifying Fruit Notes Once you’ve mastered the four basic tasting steps and can determine a wine’s sweetness level, an additional way to develop wine tasting skills is to use the seven fruit cluster descriptions used by the Wine and Spirit Education Trust (WSET) to describe what you taste. These general fruit descriptors are a great starting point to understanding the notes you encounter when tasting, and can help you begin to determine your preferences.

2 3

1

4

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White wine clusters:

Red wine clusters:

1. Green fruit such as apple, pear, gooseberry, and grape. Chardonnay and muscat wines often have this cluster.

5. Red fruit like cherries, raspberries, and strawberries show up in pinot noir, sangiovese, and gamay wines.

2. Citrus fruit like lemon, lime, grapefruit, and orange. This cluster is often tasted in sauvignon blanc, albariño, and pinot grigio. 3. Stone fruit, such as peach, apricot, and nectarine, is often present in rieslings and viogniers.

6. Black fruit, such as blackberries, blueberries, and blackcurrant, is present in cabernet sauvignon, tempranillo, merlot, Malbec, and syrah.

4. Tropical fruit such as mango, banana, lychee, and passionfruit. These flavors show up in Gewürztraminer, semillon, Marsanne, and some chardonnays.

7. Dried fruit notes, such as raisins, prunes, and dates, often show up in red wines because of the aging process.

While most wines have fruit-based notes, you will often taste other notes such as spices, minerals, herbs, and more. These notes result from the climate of the wine’s growing region, the winemaking process, or the aging process. As you continue to practice tasting wines, these elements may become more recognizable, and you may begin to associate them with specific wines or wine regions.

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Wine Words You’ll hear many of the same words used to describe the taste, texture, and making of a wine during a wine tasting. Below are a few common terms to familiarize yourself with beforehand. • Sommelier – A certified wine professional • Breathing – Exposing wine to oxygen, which slightly changes the flavor profile (sometimes called aeration) • On the nose – Used to describe the smell of the wine • On the palate – Used to describe the taste and texture of the wine

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• Tannins – Compounds in wine that leave a bitter, dry pucker in the mouth

• Finish – Textures and flavors that linger after you swallow • Body – The weight and fullness of the wine in your mouth (either light, medium, or full-bodied) • Mouthfeel – The feeling of the wine in your mouth, such as velvety, rough, or smooth • Oaked/Unoaked – Wine is typically fermented and aged in oak barrels and will have notes of the oak, such as vanilla, coconut, or spices. Some wine is aged in stainless steel barrels to prevent these flavors. • Terrior – The climate qualities of a specific wine-growing region such as dry, wet, or sandy, which influence the taste and smell of a wine

Tasting Tip Lauren Lamacchia, fine wine manager at Athens Distributing Company, shares her best tips for wine tasting like a pro along with some great selections for an at-home tasting. “Take your time when tasting wine. Give it a swirl, smell it, then take a sip. I like to start with lighter wines and work up to bigger reds, with anything sweet at the end. Have some water and plain crackers between pours, and make a few notes on your favorites. No need to overthink the tasting notes. Just pay attention to what you like!” Available locally, these four wine selections are great for developing your tasting skills while enjoying a fantastic glass of wine.

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Lauren Lamacchia Fine Wine Manager, Athens Distributing Company

Fontanafredda Derthona Timorasso Timorasso is a grape native to Colli Tortonesi DOCG, located in the Langhe hills outside of Tortona, Italy. Tasting notes: • Straw yellow in color • Exotic fruit on the nose • Dried fruit, lime zest, almond, and honey notes on the palate

Nicolas Feuillatte Champagne Millésime Brut 2015 This Champagne blends chardonnay, pinot meunier, and pinot nero grapes for a bright and fresh experience. Tasting notes: • Bronze in color • Licorice and praline on the nose • Fresh yellow fruit, nectarines, and nutty notes on the palate

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Tablas Creek Patelin de Tablas Rosé Tablas Creek’s rosé blend includes three red Rhone varietals grown in Paso Robles – grenache, mourvedre, and counoise – along with a small amount of vermentino, a white grape. Tasting notes: • Pale peach in color • Nectarine, orange blossom, and pink grapefruit on the nose

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• Apricot, strawberry, lemon drop, and watermelon notes on the palate

Black Stallion Gaspare Cabernet Sauvignon Black Stallion’s Gaspare Cabernet Sauvignon is a big, bold California red with intense yet approachable flavors. Tasting notes: • Complex, layered wine • Oak and plum on the nose • Black fruits, chocolate, leather, and berry notes on the palate

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STYLE "FASHIONS FADE, STYLE IS ETERNAL." – YVES SAINT LAURENT

PHOTO BY KRISTINA ARMSTRONG

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Curated COLORS Here, four local retailers showcase sophisticated outfits with curated color palettes, from statement pieces that add a pop of color to classic, neutral combinations. Read on to find inspiration from these elevated ensembles. By Rachel Studebaker Photography by Kristina Armstrong | Shot on location at Hello Monty

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Devyn Scotford

outfitted by Tom James Company

This stylish outfit demonstrates how one statement piece can effortlessly bring an entire look together. Devyn’s sport coat immediately draws the eye, featuring a plaid pattern with fuchsia accents, accessorized with a matching pocket square. A pale blue dress shirt and gray trousers create a refined foundation, paired with warm accents in his belt and buckled loafers. Tom James Company: Holland & Sherry sport coat by Tom James

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Christopher Griffin outfitted by Yacoubian Tailors

Neutrals take center stage in this sophisticated style. Christopher’s twill shirt jacket grounds the outfit with subtle texture, while underneath, a plaid button-up introduces a pop of pattern. Dark brown trousers add contrast against the light beige, while leather sneakers and a wristwatch provide the perfect finishing touch. Yacoubian Tailors: Zegna shirt jacket, jeans, and shoes

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629 BROAD STREET YACOUBIANS.COM

Men’s fall fashion has arrived and the layered look is in. Don’t waste a moment. Head for Yacoubian.

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Together we deliver: • Streamlined, compliant payroll powered by Gusto • Employee self-service tools • Automated, accurate reporting through Xero • Real-time financial insights • Integrated bookkeeping and payroll systems • A dedicated team who knows and understands you and your business

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[ C U R AT E D C O L O R S ]

Dr. Rob Headrick outfitted by Hanover Blue

Simple sophistication takes the spotlight in this combination of classic pieces. Dr. Headrick’s navy blue suit introduces subtle color and depth that contrasts nicely against his crisp dress shirt and laceup leather dress shoes. Polished yet approachable, this ensemble is perfect for professional meetings and special events alike. Hanover Blue: Mizzen+Main sports coat, dress shirt, and pants

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[ C U R AT E D C O L O R S ]

Grant Dillard

outfitted by Onward Reserve

Color and texture are expertly combined in this elevated casual ensemble. Grant wears a brick red, wool sport coat on top of a blue quarter-zip pullover that ties in the plaid pattern’s accents and introduces additional color. A white dress shirt, teak pants, and suede Chelsea boots round out this layered look. Onward Reserve: Sport coat, pullover, dress shirt, pants, and boots by Onward Reserve

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Be

a re B C d as r a

s By Kristen Dee

C

aring for your beard doesn’t have to be complicated. Here, we discuss the basics of beard care along with a few helpful tips, tools, and tricks to keep your beard looking healthy and groomed. Keep It Clean While cleaning your beard may seem like a no brainer, how you wash your beard matters. Experts recommend using a gentle cleanser that suits your skin type and avoiding harsh scrubbing that can irritate the skin underneath the beard. If you are in the stubble phase, exfoliating once or twice a week can help prevent ingrown hairs. Try to avoid touching your beard throughout the day, as this can spread unwanted germs to the face and beard area.

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Keep It Moisturized The skin under the beard matters just as much as the beard itself – use a gentle moisturizer as part of your morning or evening skincare routine. This will help prevent dryness, irritation, and beard hair that is difficult to manage. Moisturizing is most effective when skin is slightly damp, such as right after washing your beard or after a shower.

Keep It Tamed Products such as beard oil and beard balm are great for adding manageability to your beard. Beard balm (sometimes called beard butter) is a thick wax that conditions the beard while providing additional hold to help shape and tame flyaways. It’s especially handy for thick and course beards that may need extra styling or shaping.

The Benefits of Beard Oil Using beard oil regularly has many benefits – it moisturizes the skin under the beard, softens beard hairs, tames frizz, adds shine, and can promote fullness. There are many types of beard oils to choose from depending on your skin type and preferences. For sensitive or acne-prone skin, consider one with antibacterial ingredients like tea tree oil or cinnamon oil. You can also make your own using a neutral carrier oil and essential oils. Below are a few tips on how to apply beard oil to keep your beard soft and shiny. • Apply beard oil after a shower or with a freshly washed beard. • While your beard is still slightly damp, gently massage three to five drops of oil into the beard. Start with a smaller amount of oil and then add more as needed to avoid overdoing it. • Work the oil through the entire beard. • A comb can help distribute the oil in thick or long beards. • Leave as is, or follow with a beard balm to style as desired.

Tools of the Trade If you plan to keep a beard, a grooming kit is a smart investment that will help keep your beard neat and well-styled. Here a few tools to consider for your grooming kit: • Clippers to trim the beard as needed • Sharp scissors for small detailing work • A beard comb or brush to use before any grooming or to distribute product in the beard • A sharp razor for shaving the neckline area • Extra razor blades so you can replace the blade every five to seven shaves

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E L E VAT E D ESSENTIALS —

Add sophistication to any setting with these locally sold products.

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REFINED RADIANCE Experience wearable luxury with the Gold Rolex Cosmograph Daytona, featuring an 18k yellow gold Oyster bracelet with a factory mother-of-pearl and diamond-set dial. Brody Jewelers

PHOTO BY KRISTINA ARMSTRONG

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SOPHISTICATED SCENTS Find a new signature scent with Mistral’s eau de parfum and hydrating bar soap. Using fine fragrances sourced from Grasse, France, the Santal Absolute scent makes a striking statement with notes of Nepalese sandalwood, papyrus, leather, and Virginia cedarwood, finished with fiery cinnamon. Mary Martha’s

BEST-KEPT BEARD

Hand-crafted in Chattanooga, Beard Butter by Local Beard is an all-natural, small-batch product that delivers deep hydration and nourishment for both your beard and the skin underneath. Available in seven unique scents, Beard Butter softens coarse hair, reduces dryness, and helps keep your beard looking healthy and well-groomed. Local Beard

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(TOP) PHOTO COURTESY OF MARY MARTHA'S; (BOTTOM) PHOTO BY TAMARA SLOCUM

DOWNLOAD THE ESPN CLEVELAND APP

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ESPN CLEVELAND 101.3 IS SOUTHEAST TENNESSEE'S EXCLUSIVE HOME OF ESPN RADIO

E L E VAT E D E S S E N T I A LS

COLLECTIBLE CRAFTSMANSHIP This William Henry B05 Caliber Blade pocketknife features authentic watch parts inlaid into carved sterling silver. The “Firestorm” Damascus steel blade is hand-forged in Boone, North Carolina, paired with “Mojave Purple” turquoise from Kingman, Arizona. Exclusive to 10 pieces, this knife is the perfect heirloom piece for any collector. Fink’s Jewelers

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PHOTO COURTESY OF FINK'S JEWELERS

E L E VAT E D E S S E N T I A LS

LUXURIOUS LEATHER Travel in style with this leather dopp bag, hand-crafted in Huntsville, Alabama. Comprised of full-grain natural leather, its timeless design features a water-repellant, waxed exterior and a roomy interior for packing away shaving supplies. Personalize the dopp kit for a one-of-a-kind gift. Chêne Blanc Gifts + Home Decor

POLISHED TIMEPIECE The TUDOR Black Bay GMT wristwatch features a luxurious satin finish and a burgundy and blue bezel. Well-suited for work travels or trips abroad, its distinctive design can display up to two other time zones. Kennedy Jewelers

(TOP) PHOTO BY RICH SMITH; (BOTTOM) PHOTO COURTESY OF KENNEDY JEWELERS

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LAST LOOK

Photo by Jimie Luangrath/Creative Revolver

“A mile of highway will only take you a mile, but a mile of runway can take you anywhere.” – Anonymous

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C

EBRAT I N G

EL

YEA S! R

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