Issuu

Explore, Experience & Enjoy Chattanooga

A P R I L 2 02 3

7110 East Brainerd Rd. 423-541-7800 hoodaccounting.com

LIFESTYLE LETTER

Exploring Chattanooga

April 2023 PUBLISHER

Rebecca Kilday | rebecca.kilday@citylifestyle.com EDITOR IAL COOR DINATOR

Belinda Martin | Belinda.Martin@citylifestyle.com

I remember being a kid in school this time of year. While I was typically an attentive student, I would always get restless as spring approached. I remember staring out the classroom window waiting for 3:00PM to arrive so I could ride around with my friends in our small town. As an adult, I still get spring fever. Thankfully, we live in a city perfect for curing the post-winter blues, for there’s nothing more beautiful and exciting than spring in Chattanooga! In this issue, we EXPLORE our city. We find some hidden gems and meet some fascinating people. We catch up with Brad Shelton, the lead architect and owner of Accendo Studio. Shelton specializes in incorporating the natural world into his innovative designs, creating spaces that are both beautiful and functional. We meet Community Foundation of Greater Chattanooga CEO Maeghan Jones. Jones leverages her background in law and non-profit work to lead the Foundation’s mission to drive meaningful change in Chattanooga by investing in people, ideas, and partners—a strategy she calls “transformational generosity.” We take a trip to L2 Outside to browse their extensive inventory of products and "toys" to encourage us to get outside. From paddle board rentals, Onewheels, longboards, and more, L2 Outside has just what you need to get ready for a summer on the water or in the park! As the days get longer here in the Scenic City, I look forward to seeing you out and about soaking up all Chattanooga has to offer. Let us be a part of your adventures and tag the magazine on Instagram @chattanoogacitylifestyle so we can explore along with you!

CONTR IBUTING WR ITER S

The Community Foundation of Greater Chattanooga, Eva Horning, Ryleigh Roberts, Eve Robles CONTR IBUTING PHOTOGR APHER S

161 Photography, The SimonWest Agency

Corporate Team CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA Mindy Hargesheimer ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell AD DESIGNER Rachel Collins

R E B E C C A K I L D A Y, P U B L I S H E R @ C H AT TA N O O G AC I T Y L I F E S T Y L E

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsey Ragain

Learn how to start your own publication at: citylifestyle.com//franchise

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Proverbs 3:5-6 Chattanooga City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Chattanooga area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Chattanooga City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered

L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R

to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

APRIL 2023

inside the issue The Explore Issue

F E ATU R E D

D E PA RTM E NTS

14 The Value of Experience

Lifestyle Letter

City Scene

Business Monthly

Local Experiences

Decor Trends LO CA L S ERV I C E S

Hot Spot S PO RTS + R EC R EAT I O N

Our Town S PO RTS + R EC R EAT ION

Must See LO CA L S ERV I C ES

Outdoor Living T R AV EL

Events

Realty Report R EA L ESTAT E

Local Limelight LO CA L S ERV IC E S

How Brad Shelton’s Years of Hard Work Offer Skill and Excellence to the Community

18 Experience the Outdoors

Steve and Deb Clanin Share their Love of the Outdoors with the Community

24 Exceeding Expectations

Experience Chattanooga Provides All-Inclusive Guided Adventures Unlike Any Other

34 Transformational Generosity A Conversation with the Community Foundation President

O N T H E C OV E R

Photography: Belinda Martin Breathtaking views on Raccoon Mountain just before dusk.

APRIL 2023

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen. THE HOWARD SCHOOL

@SCENICCITYORTHO

@CHATTANOOGACITYLIFESTYLE

2 @AUSTINHATCHERFO

7 UNIFIED

@MAYORTIMKELLY

@HAMCOTNGOV

1: A commercial-grade kitchen, sponsored by Rock City, is unveiled at The Howard School. 2: Michael and Lindsey McGowan attend the American Heart Association’s annual Chattanooga Heart Ball. 3: Dr. Tyler Prentice and the team at Scenic City Orthodontics help sell Girl Scout Cookies. 4: The UnifiEd Board wearing “Red for Ed” during their board meeting. 5: Community members plant trees at the Shepherd Community Center on Arbor Day. 6: Runners participate in the Austin Hatcher Bubbles of Fun Run. 7: County officials break ground on the new Tyner Academy.

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APRIL 2023

business monthly A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

TVFCU Announces Semifinalists in Idea Leap Grant Competition Tennessee Valley Federal Credit Union announced that 10 small business owners have been named semifinalists in the Chattanooga area Idea Leap Grant. Entrepreneurs are competing for a total of $75,000 in grants in the Chattanooga area and $50,000 each in the Cleveland and Northwest Georgia areas. To date, TVFCU has funded more than $5 million in loans to emerging and early-stage businesses through the loan initiative.

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Big Brothers Big Sisters Open Warner Mentoring Hub 10

B USIN E SS M ON T H LY

The team at Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Chattanooga cut the ribbon on a new expansion to their Bailey Avenue location. The Warner Mentoring Hub will allow the organization to expand their mentoring services. "It's not merely a building," CEO Jessica Whatley said at the ribbon-cutting for the facility, "It's truly the cornerstone of our efforts to provide more youth with a mentor to ignite their potential."

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Aaron Bucks Named Tennessee Songwriters Week Finalist The Tennessee Department of Tourist Development hosted Songwriters Week at Songbirds Guitar and Pop Culture Museum. Aaron Bucks competed against 21 other songwriting entrants to win the showcase. Each of the seven finalists earned the opportunity to perform at The Bluebird Cafe during a private event in March with music industry professionals. Songwriters performed in qualifying rounds in February at more than 50 venues, museums, attractions and cafes to advance to the showcase events. Photography @visitchatt

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APRIL 2023

local experiences The best places and things to do in our area.

You only live once; make the most of it! Choose your next adventure and broaden your horizons, increase your heart rate, and try something new that will fill your bucket.

Our Picks to Choose Your Next Adventure CLOUDLAND CANYON STATE PAR K: With beautiful mountain views,

waterfalls, and hiking trails, one of Georgia’s most beautiful state parks is the perfect destination for a short road trip. Cloudland Canyon Park Road | Rising Fawn, GA 30738 MIDDLE TENNESSEE HOT AIR ADVENTUR ES: Whether for a date or for a fun outing, this local business offers hot air balloon rides sure to awaken your inner child. 10 Peytonsville Road | Franklin, TN 37064 CHATTANOOGA SKYDIVING COMPANY: This local skydiving company will give you the adventure of a lifetime as you enjoy the exhilarating thrill of free falling. 300 Airport Road | Jasper, TN 37347 R IVER GOR GE EXCUR SIONS: Escape the city and enjoy the scenic Tennessee River Gorge on board one of this company’s many river tours. 19385 River Canyon Road | Chattanooga, TN 37405 CHATTANOOGA HELICOPTER TOUR S: Offering helicopter rides with varying flight tours, this business ensures that you have an unforgettable experience with views of Lookout Mountain and the river gorge. 932 Jubilee Drive | Chattanooga, TN 37421

Scan for more photos and the full list.

MEET THIS MONTH’S CURATOR

Ryleigh Roberts Ryleigh is a freelance writer and photographer who recently graduated with a Bachelors in English and a minor in Philosophy. She is passionate about education and hopes to attend graduate school in the fall.

LOCA L E X P E R IE N C E S

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ARTICLE BY EVA HORNING | PHOTOGRAPHY BY 161 PHOTOGRAPHY

The Value of Experience HOW BRAD SHELTON’S YEARS OF HARD WORK OFFER SKILL AND EXCELLENCE TO THE COMMUNITY

D E C OR T R E N D S | LOCAL S E RVI CE S

Malcolm Gladwell said, “It takes ten thousand hours to truly master anything. Time spent leads to experience; experience leads to proficiency; and the more proficient you are, the more valuable you’ll be.” A poignant quote, if not a creed, Brad Shelton seems to have lived by for the past twenty years. A 2001 graduate of Auburn University, Shelton first moved to Florida working with a small company that specialized in building middle schools. In 2006, he moved to Chattanooga to work with a university colleague on custom residential

housing and single-family homes. Shelton later broadened his horizons by joining an urban design firm, focusing on mixed-use spaces. From the urban design firm, he progressed to hospitality, partnering with another college friend to design hotels and restaurants, including the Edwin Hotel downtown. By this point, Shelton felt it was time to begin a new chapter. Though not many would not have considered 2020 the optimal time to start a new business, Shelton’s years of experience provided him with a solid foundation. “When COVID hit,

Accendo Studio offers full architectural services and a diversified portfolio including: custom home design, home renaovation, healthcare, multifamily residential, K-12 education, urban design, and hospitality design.

hotel and restaurant work basically shut down overnight, so I realized that to have a successful business as a sole proprietor, I needed to diversify my workload,” Shelton explains. Thus, Accendo Studio was born. In addition to his years of experience, Shelton has a deep connection to the community he serves. Born and raised in Decatur, Alabama, Shelton grew up living near the same river along which downtown Chattanooga rests–the Tennessee River. Accendo Studio offers full architectural services and a diversified portfolio including:

custom home design, home renovation, healthcare, multi-family residential, K-12 education, urban design, and hospitality design. Shelton is inspired by both built and natural environments and how these two interact and transform one another. From a new music venue to residential homes, Shelton’s vast experience brings a refreshing and exciting perspective to every project. Learn more about Accendo Studio by visiting their website: accendostudio.com.

SLK Aesthetic Medicine’s Lobby & Front Desk by Accendo Studio

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• LOCALLY MADE CUSTOM CABINETRY • NEW CONSTRUCTION • REMODELS • PROFESSIONAL DESIGNERS

VISIT OUR SHOWROOM TODAY! 1748 GUNBARREL ROAD CHATTANOOGA, TN 37421 (706) 866-7007

info@hitsoncabinets.com www.hitcab.com @hitsoncabinetsinc

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Experience

the Outdoors Steve & Deb Clanin Share their Love of the Outdoors with the Community

ARTICLE BY RYLEIGH ROBERTS PHOTOGRAPHY BY THE SIMONWEST AGENCY

L2 Outside is a paddle board rental and retail shop on a mission to help individuals experience the outdoors. Founded in 2011, the company became one of the nation’s first inland stand-up paddle board rental and retail companies. L2 Outside founder Mark Baldwin started the business to introduce locals to exciting outdoor experiences utilizing the beautiful waters in Chattanooga. In 2020, the company acquired its current owners Steve and Deb Clanin, a married couple and avid adventurers who enjoy a wide array of outdoor activities. Their ownership of L2 Outside has given them the ability to share their love of the outdoors with our community. L2 Outside offers paddle board and kayak rentals to the public year round in its downtown storefront. The business prioritizes safety and quality by selling and leasing state-of-the-art products. In addition to paddle boards and kayaks, the store also sells floats, the all-terrain Onewheel, frisbees, longboards, and apparel.

The mission of L2 Outside is to provide spectacular service and products to Chattanooga’s growing population of outdoor enthusiasts through their storefront and hardworking employees. Owners Deb and Steve Clanin told us, "Our compliments and many thanks go to our current L2 Outside crew that have received 5-star reviews from our customers. We have a very dependable team that helps us throughout the year. We could not do this without the amazing help we've received from: Kathryn "Kat" Wiley, Store Manager; Jacob Timpa, River Manager; Jared Eidson, Sunset Tour Guide; Mackenzie Mann, PaddleBoard YOGA Instructor; Spencer Dubose; Luke McLaren; Jackson Atteberry; and Brandon Sparks." L2 Outside strives to excite and educate locals and tourists about our waterways by helping them experience an adventure of their own via paddle board, kayak, or float. The team at L2 is looking forward to an eventful 2023 rental season, welcoming back their rental crew and spreading a passion for outdoor adventure. Whether on water or land, L2 Outside strives to make each customer’s experience fun, safe, and memorable.

Steve and Deb Clanin Avid adventurers and outdoor enthusiasts, Steve and Deb Clanin, acquired L2 Outside in 2020. Ownership of the business has allowed them to share their love of the outdoors with the community.

H OT SP OT | SPORTS + R E CRE ATI ON

T O P : A glimpse inside L2 Outside's storefront featuring an array of products and outdoor gear. R I G H T: Ranging from inflatable floats and coolers to paddle boarding and kayaking sets, Bōte is an innovative brand you can count on for any water adventure. L E F T: Pulse has a paddle board for your every need, whether you are relaxing downstream or joining your first SUP race.

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Adventure Roundup

Our Picks for Local Adventure

When it comes to outdoor adventure, Chattanooga has no shortage of options. From the mountains and rivers to the woods and sky, our breathtaking landscape draws in visitors from all over the country ready to experience what Chattanooga has to offer. With a plethora of options to choose from, it is no wonder why people continue to return to our city time and time again to venture into something new. Here are our picks for adventure from local businesses and attractions.

River Gorge Excursions Nestled alongside the city of Chattanooga runs the Tennessee River Gorge. Nicknamed the Tennessee Grand Canyon, the river gorge offers opportunities to take in the spectacular landscape and observe the wildlife that call Chattanooga home. River Gorge Excursions takes you along this expansive waterway sharing the incredible backstory of the river along with highlighting historic locations. As you glide with the river, you may also get a glimpse of the endangered species that reside along it. Offering guided tours on a double-decker pontoon boat as well as half- and full-day boat rentals, there is no shortage of access to the water.

rivergorgeexcursions.com

O UR TOWN | SPORTS + RE CRE ATI ON

ARTICLE BY EVE ROBLES

Chattanooga Helicopter Tours

Reflection Riding Arboretum

Adventure Sports Innovation

Take your quest for adventure up into the sky with a helicopter tour. From downtown views to mountains and waterfalls, Chattanooga Helicopter Tours offers a range of tours to suit your needs. For a unique and personal experience, you can customize your venture to include favorite locations around the scenic city. Fun for the whole family, there is no age limit to soar into aerial heights. With a multitude of options to explore the sights, there is no shortage of ways to make your adventure memorable.

A Chattanooga staple since the 1950s, Reflection Riding Arboretum is fun for the whole family to explore. With the highest rating for an arboretum in Tennessee, Reflection Riding is home to an expansive variety of botanicals. The arboretum’s latest expansion includes a five-acre nature playscape specifically designed for nature exploration. With over 300 acres to explore, visitors can venture out on the trails and even design their own nature experiences with animal encounters, kayaking, guided hikes and more.

When it comes to innovation and exploration, look no further than Adventure Sports. Whether it is exploring city views on e-bikes and e-scooters, heading into the woods for an offroad experience, or venturing into the lakes and rivers for a water experience, Adventure Sports provides options to suit every kind of explorer. A first of its kind in the Chattanooga area, guided tours are offered on Swincar electric vehicles. Adventure Sports also offers water bike rentals as well as eFoil surfboard rentals and lessons.

chattanoogaheli.com

reflectionriding.org

adventuresportsinnovation.com

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Exceeding Expectations With a nickname like “The Scenic City,” it is no secret that Chattanooga is well-known for its captivating charm. Acclaimed for undeniably vast landscapes with hiking trails minutes from downtown, Chattanooga has become an outdoor destination for countless travelers looking for adventure. “Most people come to Chattanooga to see Ruby Falls and Rock City, then cross Chattanooga off the list. The reality is that they haven’t even scratched the surface of what Chattanooga really has to

offer. There is just so much more to see,” Hope and Ryan Maum, the founders of Experience Chattanooga told us. Established in November 2018, Experience Chattanooga has become a trailblazer for guided hiking tours in the area. The idea was sparked when Hope and Ryan, who were working in the restaurant industry, were constantly asked for advice about where to experience local outdoor ventures. Hope recalls, “We would try to explain to visitors

EXPERIENCE CHATTANOOGA PROVIDES ALL-INCLUSIVE GUIDED ADVENTURES UNLIKE ANY OTHER

ARTICLE BY EVE ROBLES | PHOTOGRAPHY BY THE SIMONWEST AGENCY

M UST SE E | LOCA L SERVI CE S

how Chattanooga is such a big outdoor city and that there is so much to do. However, in doing so, we noticed a disconnect between telling people where to go and them actually finding the places on their own without getting lost.” Encounters like these led the Maums to bridge a gap and provide people with the opportunity to experience the sights of Chattanooga without worrying about the logisitics of how to do so. As the first company in Tennessee to obtain a Tennessee State Park commercial tour guide permit, Experience Chattanooga has led hundreds of people on hiking trails off the beaten bath. Almost in lockstep, Hope and Ryan emphasize that their tours are customized for the novice and experienced adventure-seekers alike. “We get a lot of first-time hikers or hikers who aren’t comfortable getting on the trails by themselves,” Hope states. “When you are doing something you have never done before it helps so much to have someone by your side who is an expert so that you aren’t just jumping into it. The great thing about our tours is that we do not mix any of our groups. It is a private experience and we go at whatever pace they are capable of." "We can customize the tour for different sightseeing options based on their ability level,” Ryan adds.

Open year-round, tours allow you to take in scenic views at sunrise or venture on routes featuring waterfalls and rock formations. The popularity of the type of tour depends on the season. “We really enjoy the "Waterfall Wonderland" tour in the winter because the waterfalls flow the best during the colder months and winter is the best time of the year to see them. Our most popular tour, "Soul Therapy,” is a well-rounded tour because you get to see so many beautiful aspects of what Chattanooga has to offer," Hope says. The most notable aspect of Experience Chattanooga is its top-notch all-inclusive excursions with no hidden fees or upcharges. From transportation and refreshments to hiking equipment and professional photography, Hope and Ryan work hard to ensure that guests' needs are met and that their expectations are exceeded during every experience. Trailheads with limited to no cell service can be overwhelming for those unfamiliar with the area. The Maums, Chattanooga natives, knew that their familiarity with the area would provide guests with a more enjoyable experience. Taking things one step further, the couple offers professional photography services to document guests' entire journey, so that they can remain focused on the venture.

We get a lot of

first-time hikers or hikers that aren’t comfortable get-

ting on the trails by themselves.

CONTINUED >

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Ryan stresses, “In the age of social media, everyone wants to have photos of what they are doing, which is great, but this can also take away from the experience. Because of this, it was important for us to allow people disconnect from their phones and let us handle the photos so that they can remain focused on the experience and the sights around them as much as possible. We get a lot of families and because of the services we provide, they all get to be in the photos together which is special for them. It is a privilege for us to document that for them.” Another aspect unique to Experience Chattanooga’s business model is its partnership with local restaurants.

M UST SE E | LOCA L SERVI CE S

Cultivating relationships with restaurant partners came from Hope and Ryan's own travel experiences with a desire to experience local hot spots and try area staples. It became important to them to give their customers not only guidance on the trails but also a taste of the local cuisine. Ryan told us, “Everyone is looking for a meal after a hike and we wanted to point them to some of our favorite local restaurants. This is important to us because it gives back to local businesses and we want to support that, too.” With five-star ratings across multiple platforms, Hope and Ryan have built a business that is one of a kind.

Through testimonials, customers state: “If I could leave 100 stars, I would! This is THE way to hike in Chattanooga.” “Hope and Ryan are incredible tour guides. They made the whole excursion memorable.” “I spent the most amazing hiking day with Hope and Ryan. Not only [sightseeing] and exploring but [it was] also educational.” "Experience Chattanooga is an absolute must when traveling into town. Our expectations were BEYOND exceeded.” Hope and Ryan strive to allow guests to connect with nature while providing outstanding hospitality. Ryan emphasizes, “We are all about customer service from beginning to end. From the first time that we communicate with you via text message or phone call to the point where we are giving you a hug at the end of the tour, customer service is everything for us. For me, our success is evident in that we have a perfect five-star rating and people continue to love their experiences with us. We feel very blessed to live here and be able to show people our home.” To learn more about Experience Chattanooga and to book your next adventure, visit experiencechattanooganow.com.

“When you are doing something you have never done before, it helps to have someone by your side who is an expert. The great thing about our tours is that we do not mix our groups. It is a private experience.”

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Sleep Inside, Outside 3 Incredible places to (literally) sleep under the stars

It’s always magical to spend a night sleeping under the stars. In decades past, adventure seekers have packed the SUV or camper with tents and gear for ‘roughin’ it’ in the great outdoors. But the swanky and exploding category of luxury outdoor hotel is something to investigate for an unforgettable, next-level experience. For those who prefer glamping rather than pitching their own tent fireside, here are a few options that incorporate sweeping views and a unique opportunity for travelers to be more authentically embedded in the landscape of the place they’re visiting. These resorts have bucket list-worthy rooms that capture the best of both the luxury resort experience and the outdoors. Whether you crave the dry heat of the remote Utah desert or the luminous beauty of the Northern Lights, we’ve curated a short list of some places you *must* check out.

O UT D OOR LIV IN G | TR AVE L

Photography by Amangiri, USA

Amangiri, Utah In southern Utah, Amangiri is a five star resort perfect for an adventurous weekend in the desert. However, it is the simple rooms built to emphasize the beauty of Canyon Point that truly make it an incredible place to stay. Each suite has an outdoor lounge and fireplace with private pools or rooftop terraces available too. Don’t miss a dip in the ‘gram-worthy pool, which wraps around the landscape’s curved dunes and arid plateaus. CONTINUED >

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Hacienda Na Xamena, Ibiza The Spanish island Ibiza boasts lush pine forests, hidden calas (cove beaches) and Hacienda Na Xamena, a resort suspended on a cliff 600 feet above the Mediterranean. Guests flock to its spa for the eight saltwater thalassotherapy (seawater as a form of therapy) lagoons, which are linked together with waterfalls. Swim to the edge of the pool and drink in the sweeping sea vistas. Photography Hacienda Na Xamena, Ibiza ©

Photography by Pacuare Lodge

Pacuare Lodge, Costa Rica This jungle hideaway is so out there, you have to whitewater raft down a river or ride a gondola to get there. A network of hanging bridges connect the villas, which have thatched roofs, plantation teak wood floors, rattan furniture and private plunge pools. In the evening, zip 400 feet down a cable for a meal at the Nest, a platform at the top of a ceiba tree, then take a night-time stroll along romantic pathways lit by candles and lanterns.

Photography by Pacuare Lodge

O UT D OOR LIV IN G | TR AVE L

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APRIL 2023

events A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area. A P RIL 3 RD

Black Professionals at the Hunter

THE HUN TER MUS EUM OF ART | 5 :30 P M Chattanooga’s Black professionals are invited to a celebration of community, culture, and connections. This free bimonthly series is designed by and created for all area Black professionals. April’s event will have networking experiences, performances by local Black creatives and delicious treats from Chattanooga Bread Pudding and The Island Vibe.

A P RIL 7 T H

Hug-a-Bunny Days

THE CHATTAN OOGA ZOO | 9:00 A M Hug-a-Bunny Days guests will have the chance to get their photo made with the Easter Bunny, enjoy springtime games and crafts, gather Easter eggs, watch as our Zoo animals enjoy their egg hunt enrichment, encounter the Zoo’s real bunnies, and more!

A P RIL 2 2 N D

Four Bridges Art Festival

F IR ST HORIZON PAVILLION | 1 0 :0 0 A M Enjoy live music, food from a variety of local vendors, children's activities from SPLASH Youth Arts Workshop and Art120, and artwork of every kind from 145 artists from all over the country. Find more information at 4bridgesartsfestival.org .

A P RIL 2 5T H

Community Yoga at the Sculpture Fields

19 08 E 12TH STREET | CHATTA NO O GA , T N 37 4 0 4 | 6 :30 P M In this 60-minute Community Yoga class, we will gather on our mats surrounded by nature and cool art at the Sculpture Fields in Chattanooga. This donation-based class will begin with a short meditation and flow through beginner-friendly postures, connecting breath to gentle, mindful movements.

A P RIL 2 8T H

Chattanooga Seafood Bash

15 0 RIVER STREET | CHATTANO O GA , T N 37 4 0 5 | 4 :0 0 P M Food vendors from around the Southeast and beyond will join us for this three-day festival, where visitors will enjoy fresh seafood dishes of all kinds, as well as other cuisine for the non-seafood lovers. Festival visitors will also be able to listen to live music and enjoy juried handmade arts and crafts from artisans throughout the country.

A P RIL 2 9 T H

National Cornbread Festival

221 S CEDAR AVEN UE | S OUTH P I T TS B UR G , T N 37 38 0 | 9 :0 0 A M The wait is over and we are ready to welcome you back to enjoy the sights, sounds, and tastes of the National Cornbread Festival. Located 30 miles west of Chattanooga, TN, this quaint southern town will host a celebration of cornbread, often considered the cornerstone of southern cuisine. We can’t wait to welcome you to the 26th annual Cornbread Festival!

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Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/Chattanooga

EVE N TS

MARCH 2 0 2 3

realty report A sample of recently sold properties in Chattanooga. NEI GH B O RH O OD

OR IGIN AL PRICE

SO L D P RIC E

%SO L D/ O RIG

DO M

B DRM S

B AT H S

Ooltewah

$6,900,000.00

$6,350,000.00

92%

West Chattanooga

$4,995,000.00

$4,750,000.00

95%

Signal Mountain

$2,300,000.00

100%

Lookout Mountain

$1,999,000.00

$2,000,000.00

100%

North Chattanooga

$1,500,000.00

$1,598,195.00

107%

Riverview

$1,200,000.00

100%

Highlands

$1,150,000.00

100%

Black Creek Chattanooga

$925,000.00

$890,000.00

96%

Mountain Shadows

$900,000.00

$880,000.00

98%

North View

$700,000.00

$685,000.00

98%

North Shore

$635,000.00

$600,000.00

94%

Apison

$462,805.00

$533,838.00

115%

This data is a sampling of sold properties from January 2023. Source: Greater Chattanooga MLS System. DOM= Days on Market.

Local

real estate experts

Each Keller Williams Realty Office is Independently Owned & Operated

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Transformational Generosity A Conversation with the Community Foundation President

Maeghan Jones

ARTICLE BY THE COMMUNITY FOUNDATION OF GREATER

CEO of the Community Foundation of Greater Chattanooga

CHATTANOOGA | PHOTOGRAPHY BY THE SIMONWEST AGENCY

WHAT DO YOU LOVE THE MOST ABOUT YOUR JOB? I’m fortunate to live in a uniquely generous community with a legacy of strong civic leadership and whose leaders understand the importance of giving back. In my role as President of the Community Foundation, I get to experience that generosity first-hand every day. My team and I help people really define the values that motivate them and the issues they care most about. Then we help connect their passions with real needs in the community and make introductions to organizations that are doing difficult, life-changing work in neighborhoods throughout Chattanooga. I sometimes describe our mission as ‘making hope tangible.’ Helping donors articulate the legacy they want to leave is sacred work and such an honor.

LOOKING AHEAD TO 2023, WHAT ARE THE BIG ISSUES FACING CHATTANOOGA? According to national data, Hamilton County is one of the most difficult communities for people to move up the ladder of economic mobility. In other words, if you're born poor here, you’re more likely to stay in poverty throughout your life than you might be in other communities. At the Foundation, we believe our community has the power to change that. Every single day, I have the honor of working with generous families and individuals who are determined to create pathways out of poverty and build ladders of opportunity by supporting innovative, hard-working nonprofit agencies all across our city. Their steadfast commitment inspires me and gives me hope for the community we all love. Our motto at the Foundation is “generosity transforms”—it transforms the giver, the recipient, and our entire community.

LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | LOCAL S E RVI CE S

Maeghan Jones has been the President and CEO of the Community Foundation of Greater Chattanooga since 2015. She leads a team of professionals dedicated to aligning the community’s resources around critical, long-term challenges—a philosophy she and her colleagues call “transformational generosity.” Maeghan came to this role after leading the Chattanooga Area Food Bank for several years and before that, she was an attorney at Legal Aid of East Tennessee. Her unique professional background working alongside the community’s most vulnerable makes her well-suited to understanding the complex needs of Chattanooga’s most vulnerable families—and gives her unique insights into what philanthropic organizations like the Community Foundation can do to help move into lasting economic stability.

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