Judge Don Poole announces retirement in 2022

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn (WDEF)- Judge Poole was first elected in 2006 and was unopposed for re-election for an 8 year term in 2014. A former Hamilton County Assistant District Attorney, Poole received both his undergraduate and J.D. degrees from the University of Tennessee in 1964 and 1965. In a written statement Poole said “Now is the time, however, to announce that I…

City of Chattanooga partners with American Job Center to host Ex-Offender Job Fair

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn (WDEF) – The City of Chattanooga partnered with the American job center and the Tennessee Department of Corrections to host a job fair for ex offenders.  This job fair focused on connecting justice-involved individuals with professional development and employment opportunities. “We have employers here who are already aware of people who had some challenges. We are advocating for them…

River City Company Has Big Plans

Chattanooga’s Riverfront District will have a new look in the coming years. That’s the plan of the River City Company, which is a non-profit organization established back in the mid-80’s, with a goal of beautifying the “Scenic City.” Emily Mack is the President and CEO of the River City Company. Mack and the company laid out its new project this…

Baylor Hopes Added Depth Delivers Added Wins

Baylor always has talent, and this year they have that extra ingredient. Depth. Head coach Phil Massey says the Red Raiders have depth at all positions. Let’s dive into the Baylor 30-in-30 preview. Going 4-4 last year with an opening round playoff loss, that’s a season Baylor would like to punt. Said linebacker Dacorian Jones-Montgomery:”Tired of losing in that first…

Local Gymnast Coach & Counselor React to Simone Biles & Mental Health Awareness

“Most of the people that have something to say have never been involved with gymnastics and everyone that is supporting her has,” says TAG Girls Team Head Coach, Anne Malinowsky. After Olympic gymnast Simone Biles unexpectedly pulled out from the competition, there’s been an overwhelming support for mental health awareness among athletes. A local gymnast coach and a local counselor…

Making A Name For Herself!

There’s a young girl from Rossville who is “tearing up” the world of karate. And it’s hard to believe what she’s accomplished in such a short amount of time. Kaylee Anderson has only truly been active in the world of martial arts for one year. One. Kaylee has already won more awards than most of us could ever dream about….

Pfizer data suggests that third dose protects against Delta Variant

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF)- Pfizer says it has promising data about its COVID-19 Vaccine Booster. Using data that has not been published or peer reviewed just yet, Pfizer announced this morning that their third dose of the COVID-19 vaccine could protect against the Delta Variant. However, one local pharmacist suggests that people do not try to get a third dose before…

Hamilton County Commissioners discuss Delta concerns and vaccination rates

HAMILTON COUNTY, Tenn (WDEF) – The CDC is advising people to go back to wearing masks specifically while in areas with elevated infection rates- and unfortunately that includes Hamilton County. This new statement was the topic of today’s County Commission meeting as local officials and health experts discussed  concerns for the future. “All the numbers are going in the wrong direction…

Potential Excites Ringgold Tigers

Ringgold posted a .500 record last year, but the Tigers believe they can be much more than a middle of the pack team this fall. Ringgold enjoys the 30-in-30 spotlight. Nothing gives a coach confidence like returning 22 seniors, who are hungry for success. Said head coach Robert Akins:”Because of the way they have worked in the weight room and…

City of Chattanooga closes all Community Centers after summer camp ends Friday

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF)- There were 122 new cases of COVID-19 today in Hamilton County. Monday, Chattanooga Mayor Tim Kelly closed two more Community Centers for cleaning because of confirmed COVID-19 Cases. Today, the city made an announcement that all Chattanooga Community Centers will remain closed after summer camps are complete on Friday. Chattanooga’s director of community health, Dr. Mary Lambert…

The Lantern at Morning Pointe Reopens After Near Tornado Destruction

CHATTANOOGA (WDEF) – A local residential home for seniors with Alzheimer’s took a devastating hit by a tornado in April of 2020. This week they are back open, and better than ever. “As you look back at Easter night in 2020 when the devastating tornado hit Chattanooga, Morning Pointe Senior Living and The Lantern took direct hits. By the grace…