Picking on the River: Inside Chattanooga’s Bluegrass Community with Randy Steele

In Chattanooga, bluegrass isn’t just a sound—it’s a weekly ritual, a front-porch handshake, and a reason to pull up a chair. From casual “pickin’ circles” to festivals, the Scenic City has quietly grown a scene that welcomes newcomers and challenges veterans to keep stretching. Randy Steele—songwriter, flatpicker, and tireless champion of the craft—talks community, craft, and why this town keeps him inspired.

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Dawn Hjelseth
Remembering the Chattanooga Five: Courage in the Face of Hate

As we celebrate Women’s History Month and reflect on the incredible legacies of women who have shaped our world, it's important to look locally. Viola Ellison, Lela Mae Evans, Opal Jackson, Katherine Johnson, and Fannie Mae Crumsey—known as the Chattanooga Five—may not be household names everywhere, but their courage and resilience changed history.

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Dawn Hjelseth
Downtown Eats: Big Flavors at Big Chicken

Chattanooga’s food scene just got a little bigger—thanks to Big Chicken. Partly owned by basketball icon Shaquille O’Neal, this restaurant brings a larger-than-life approach to its menu and atmosphere. Known for its Southern-inspired chicken sandwiches, crispy tenders, and signature sides, Big Chicken delivers fast, bold flavors that pack a punch, satisfying those cravings for hearty bites in a fun, casual setting.

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Dawn Hjelseth
The Women Behind Northside Neighborhood House

Over 100 years ago, Rose Longgley and Emily Page Schlesinger turned a simple act of kindness into a century-long legacy of empowerment. Their efforts to support struggling families laid the foundation for the Northside Neighborhood House, which continues to uplift neighbors in need today.

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Dawn Hjelseth
Downtown Chattanooga Folklore

Fall is in full swing, and the season’s uniquely bewitching spirit makes it the perfect time to conjure up stories. Chattanooga holds many tales within its history, so whether you want to recount ghost stories or hear about little-known folk tales, look no further!

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Dawn Hjelseth
Rock the Riverfront Begins!

Rock the Riverfront kicks off on March 14th and will run an entire month, bringing the Riverfront District of Downtown Chattanooga to life with free events and activities open to all! Experience the Chattanooga Green like never before with Rock the Riverfront featuring Loop, by EKUMEN, an interactive art installation inspired by the zoetrope that plays short flipbook-style movies inspired by Quebec literature.

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Dawn Hjelseth