Jewish Federation of Chattanooga celebrates Israel’s Independence Day

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – Today, the Jewish Federation of Chattanooga celebrated Israel’s Independence Day. Organizers say the event honored 78 years of Israel’s history and culture while bringing the community together, welcoming both Jewish and non-Jewish attendees. This year’s celebration also marked the beginning of a new tradition. Michael Dzik with the Jewish Federation of Greater Chattanooga said the organization…

American Legion Post 214 hosts Friends and Family Day

ROSSVILLE, GA. (WDEF) – The American Legion Post 214 hosted its annual Friends and Family Day this afternoon, bringing the community together to honor veterans and celebrate service. Organizers say the yearly event is designed not only to recognize those who have served in the military, but also to give back to the community. Members say supporting veterans and their…

GPS Pushing For Return to Spring Fling

Chattanooga-(WDEF-TV) GP S owns four softball state championships, but it has been a couple of years since they’ve been to Spring Fling. With over 20 wins this season already, the Bruisers hope they can make that final push to return to the ‘Boro. Brian Armstrong reports. Categories: Sports – Local Sports News

Brain Health 2.0 event highlights importance of mental wellness

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) Taking care of your brain is just as important as taking care of your body—and a local event is helping spread that message. People of all ages gathered at the Jewish Cultural Center for Brain Health 2.0, where Board Certified Cognitive Specialist Michelle Hecker Davis shared simple ways to keep the mind sharp. “I am on a…

Chattanooga celebrates 423 Day with community pride at Miller Park

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF)-If you thought it was just another ordinary day—think again. Chattanooga came together loud and proud to celebrate 423 Day, turning three simple numbers into a citywide show of unity, pride, and connection. At Miller Park, the energy was hard to miss. Neighbors gathered, vendors set up shop, and music filled the air as the city came alive…

Southeast Drought Conditions Continue Worsening

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – Drought conditions continued to expand and intensify across much of the Southeast, according to the latest U.S. Drought Monitor update. In the Tennessee Valley, extreme drought conditions are present in portions of the region, with broader severe drought spreading across portions of Alabama, Tennessee, and into parts of Kentucky and North Carolina.  Conditions vary by location,…

Be “Set Free” with a new local, feature film

RINGGOLD, Ga. (WDEF) – Hollywood was brought to Ringgold, Ga. with the filming and premiere of local, feature film Set Free. The faith-based film by Soul Purpose Entertainment focuses on God setting people free from various vices including drugs. It also brings awareness of the fentanyl crisis in the News 12 viewing area. The film features entirely local talent and…

Job growth expected to be slow in Chattanooga area

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF)- Will there be more jobs coming to the Chattanooga area? With inflation tied to high gas prices and other factors, many are asking what that means for the future of our economy. A new report says that while the picture isn’t the brightest, we should not panic. Dr. Howard Wall of UTC’s Center for Regional for Economic…

Two different versions of voucher testing bill pass Tennessee legislature

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WDEF)- Two different versions of the bill that would change testing requirements for private schools that take one kind of voucher in the state of Tennessee have passed both houses of the Tennessee General Assembly. Senate Bill 1585 according to its sponsor Senator Jack Johnson is designed to align testing requirements for schools receiving Educational Savings Account (ESA)…

Large Crowds Mark Mr. T’s Opening

OOLTEWAH, Tenn. (WDEF) – Large crowds and long lines took over Ooltewah as Mr. T’s Pizza opened its second location with a three-day grand opening celebration. The excitement started early Thursday morning, with people lining up well before the 10:30 a.m. opening.  The first 250 customers received a free large pizza and a Mr. T’s T-shirt, drawing in a huge…

Hawk Hill Plans Await Approval

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – The future of AT&T Field is under consideration as the Chattanooga Sports Authority weighs next steps for the site following the Chattanooga Lookouts’ departure, while River City Company continues shaping what redevelopment could look like. River City Company says the framework for the site has been developed over several years and is based on community input,…

Behind the Curtain: Dollywood Food Edition

PIGEON FORGE, Tenn. (WDEF) – While many come to Dollywood for fun rides, performances, and the overall appreciation of Dolly Parton, but many come to the park for their delicious food! News 12’s Amelia Greer took a trip to Dollywood to learn how their renowned chefs are able to make delicious desserts 9 to 5, or should we say 3…

Jacksonville State Defeats UTC 9-2

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. — Chattanooga softball battled throughout the afternoon but an early offensive surge by Jacksonville State proved decisive in a 9–2 loss Wednesday at Jim Frost Stadium. Jacksonville State scored three runs in the first inning and added six more in the second to build an early cushion. Chattanooga responded with a two‑run second inning and settled in defensively…