Happy Thursday!
In case you haven’t heard, there’s a chance of up to 4” of snow in this weekend! So if you haven’t already, head to the store to grab some supplies and get ready to hunker down!
If you have an elderly neighbor, be sure to check in on them and make sure they’ve got what they need too!
Also, we are looking for someone to help us build partnerships with local businesses. If you’d like to know more, drop your info here.
Let’s get to it!

TOGETHER WITH CLOSETS BY DESIGN
🚀 Start 2026 Off Clutter Free

Feeling the post-holiday clutter? Start the New Year with a clean slate and a home that finally feels organized.
Closets By Design can help you transform any space, from closets and pantries to garages, laundry rooms, and more. Their custom storage solutions make it easier to reset, recharge, and enjoy a fresh start in 2026.
Whether you want to simplify your daily routine or finally tackle the spaces you’ve been avoiding, their team designs everything around your home and lifestyle.
Begin the year organized and stress-free. Book your free consultation with Closets By Design today!
P.S. Want to partner with us in 2026 and reach thousands of Chattanoogans every week? Fill out this form and I will be in touch!

Local Snapshots
🍽 New Japanese Restaurant Opening in Downtown This February
Torikaya, a new downtown Chattanooga restaurant, is set to open this February at 1120 Houston Street, Suite 150.
Owned by Carlos and Eunice Kal of Kals Group, Torikaya blends Japanese flavors with global influences and seasonal ingredients in a modern, welcoming setting designed for gathering and connection.
The chef-driven concept will be led by a new executive chef arriving from Los Angeles, with menu details coming soon. The Kals are known locally for globally inspired dining spots like Totto Sushi and Zaya Korean Steakhouse, and say Torikaya has been a longtime passion project.
More announcements are expected in the weeks ahead.
🚠 Rock City Moves Forward With Gondola Plan
Rock City is moving forward with plans to build a gondola system on Lookout Mountain, following the recent approval of rezoning that allows the project to proceed.
The idea centers on shifting visitor parking to the base of the mountain and transporting guests by gondola instead of car, a change Rock City estimates could remove roughly 3,000 vehicles per day from Ochs Highway.
Leaders say the gondola would improve traffic flow, increase safety, and preserve scenic views while supporting future growth. The proposed gondola would rise mostly above the tree canopy, offering a new arrival experience while reducing congestion on the mountain roads.
🐒 Vote to Name Chattanooga Zoo’s Newest (and Cutest) Residents
Two adorable emperor tamarin babies have arrived at the Chattanooga Zoo (they are so adorable), and the Zoo is asking the public to help name them.
The twins were born October 25 to parents Dolly and Parmigiano and are now thriving in the Corcovado Jungle exhibit. While the birth included a third infant that did not survive, zoo officials say this outcome is common with tamarin triplets.
Guests can now watch the babies clinging to their parents and beginning to explore on their own. The Zoo is hosting a public vote to choose between three name pairs, with a $3 donation required to vote, and all proceeds supporting animal care. You can vote here.

🚀 TOGETHER WITH OUR RIVER CITY EXPLORER PARTNERS

Closets By Design: Start the New Year with a clean slate and a home that finally feels organized. Book a free consultation today.
The Sweet and Savory Classroom: Make Valentine’s Day extra special with a fun, memorable night together as you laugh and cook a meal together. Use code Explorer for $20 off!
P.S. Want more info on becoming one of our partners? Fill out this form and I will be in touch!

Weekend Game Plan
Friday, January 23
Glow in the Dark Dodgeball at Ramsey Community Center: Bring your kids, find a team, and enjoy a free evening of dodgeball!
Memories of Mitchell Avenue at Chattanooga Theatre Centre: Stop by and relive/share/listen to nostalgic stories from 1517 Mitchell Avenue!
Concrete at Barking Legs Theater: An original psychological drama exploring corporate alienation and identity loss!
Rubik’s Groove 80s, 90s, 00s Dance Party at Barrelhouse Ballroom: Dance to hits from the 80s, 90s, and 00s!
Broadway Sings Queen at The Signal: Hear Broadway stars reimagine Queen's iconic songs in this powerful vocal tribute concert!
Sherry Cothran at The Woodshop: Join award-winning artist Sherry Cothran for an unforgettable night of roots, story, and soul!
Alex Kumin at The Comedy Catch: Enjoy an evening of laughter with the NYC-based comedian!
Kathleen Madigan: The Day Drinking Tour at The Walker Theatre: Enjoy Kathleen Madigan's hilarious observations on life and day drinking!
Saturday, January 24
Parent-Child Hand-Tossed Neapolitan Pizza at The Sweet and Savory Classroom: Bond with your child while learning to make authentic hand-tossed Neapolitan pizza! Use code Explorer for $20 off!
Introduction to Beekeeping at The Chattery: Discover the basics of beekeeping, including equipment, hive setup, and tips for beginners!
Murder Mystery Dinner Show at DoubleTree Chattanooga: Solve a thrilling murder mystery over a delicious dinner!
Micro Wrestling at The Signal: High-flying, professional wrestling supported by an entire cast under five feet tall!
Glow Party at The Little Gym: Drop your kids off for glow stick fun, bowling, ring toss, beach volleyball, and more!
Family Day Out at Northgate Mall: Celebrate International Lego Day with crafting, games, and more!
Winter Market at Little Lions Den: Shop local vendors and help raise money for local families going through the adoption process!
International Lego Day at Eastgate Library: Celebrate Lego with building challenges, games, and creative play for all ages!
Litter Clean-Up at Enterprise South Nature Park: Enjoy an afternoon of giving back by helping to clean up the park!
Webb Wilder at The Woodshop: Rock out to Webb Wilder's roots-rock and Americana tunes!
Bella Lam at Songbirds: Enjoy an evening of country music from the rising artist from Jackson, Tennessee!
Fiddle Around and Find Out at The Plant Bar: A mix of folk instrumentals, traditional bluegrass, and various cover tunes!
Rock the 90s with Little Mule at Barrelhouse Ballroom: Relive the 90s with Little Mule's high-energy performance of classic rock hits from the decade!
Sunday, January 25
Star Party at UTC Clarence T. Jones Observatory: A free planetarium show!
MTV Unplugged: Tribute to Nirvana at The Woodshop: Celebrate the legendary sounds of Nirvana and Kurt Cobain with the national touring tribute Smells Like Nirvana!
Looking Ahead
🎸 Americana Nights: Crimson Calamity
Wednesday, January 28 | 5 PM | The Woodshop | $12 | More Info
Crimson Calamity is a Nashville-based duo who has built a sound that blends Americana, folk, and sultry rock!
🥇 2026 Chattanooga Skillet Curling Championship
Thursday, January 29 | 6-10 PM | First Tennessee Pavilion | Free | More Info
Bring your friends, bring your family, and come experience the thrill of Skillet Curling right here in Chattanooga. Cheer on the competitors, soak up the excitement, and be part of this unique championship event!
🎙 Diana Krall
Thursday, January 29 | 7:30 PM | Soldiers and Sailors Auditorium | $56+ | More Info
Diana Krall is the only jazz singer to have eight albums debut at the top of the Billboard Jazz Albums chart!
🛼 80’s Skate Party
Friday, January 30 | 6-10 PM | Hamilton Skate Place | $15 | More Info
Just off your skates and get ready to roll back in time for a night of retro fun!
🤘 St. Owsley: Jerry Garcia and The Grateful Dead Experience
Friday, January 30 | 8 PM | Barrelhouse Ballroom | $15+ | More Info
A full-spectrum Dead experience like you’ve never heard before. Expect soaring Jerry-esque leads, thunderous bass, psychedelic synths, sacred pedal steel, primal drums, and harmonies that feel straight from the heavens!

How’d You Like Today’s Newsletter?
Could you take a second and let me know what you thought of today’s newsletter?
How'd I do this week?

Thanks for letting me drop into your inbox this morning.
See you next week!


