Growing Together
August has a way of tugging at the heartstrings, catching us in that golden, fleeting stretch where the days are still long but the air begins to whisper of change. It is a season of growth—a time when we watch our children stretch their wings, their independence unfolding alongside summer chaos shifting into a more predictable rhythm.
There is something tender about this time of year. Backpacks are packed, calendars begin to fill, and families step once again into the familiar cadence of school days, early mornings, and evening routines. Yet even in the busyness, August invites us to notice the beauty of becoming. Our children are learning, changing, and growing before our eyes, preparing in small and significant ways for the futures they will one day help shape.
Through it all, our pets remain our steady, furry anchors. They are the keepers of our secrets and the masters of the here and now, offering unwavering devotion whether it is a drizzly, quiet Tuesday spent on the couch or a sunny Saturday playing in the park. They remind us, gently and without fanfare, to pause, breathe, and be present for every beautiful, messy, marvelous moment along the way.
In this issue, we celebrate the people and places that nurture the children and pets who make our lives so full. Wildwood Playscape invites young explorers into the wonder of nature-based play, while Clumpies Ice Cream Co. continues a beloved Chattanooga tradition under the heartfelt leadership of new owner Ashley Bottoms. Tennessee Kids Belong reminds us of the power of community in supporting foster families, and Dr. David Levine’s work in canine rehabilitation reflects the extraordinary care given to the animals we love. Alongside these stories, we highlight local pet-focused businesses and share practical guidance from Lee Company for keeping homes running smoothly in the midst of life with kids and pets. Finally, we take you to Blessings Creek Farms, the closest area destination for visiting Highland cows, Dogtopia’s off-leash, open-play environment for pups, and Chatt Town Veterinary Care, where we learn more about the team caring for Chattanooga’s pets.
My hope is that this issue meets you in the tenderness of the season. May it remind you to savor the small things: muddy paws, melting ice cream, first-day photos, evening walks, and the everyday moments that become the memories we hold onto most.
Cheers!
August 2026 Visit our Instagram
PUBLISHER
Lisa Yockey | lisa.yockey@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Belinda Martin | Belinda.Martin@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Katie Bode | katie.bode@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Eve Crabtree, Demi Guillory, Belinda Martin, Kate Robertson Parrish, Kristi Sellers
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Kristina Armstrong, Angela Foster
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Josh Govero
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsey Ragain
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle
LISA YOCKEY , PUBLISHER @CHATTANOOGACITYLIFESTYLE
3:5-6
business monthly
Dealinked Launches Fleet Services
Dealinked is excited to announce the launch of its fleet sourcing and buying services, helping businesses of all sizes find, negotiate, and acquire the right vehicles with ease. Whether you're building a fleet from the ground up or expanding your existing one, Dealinked handles the entire process, saving you time so you can focus on running your business. Learn more at mydealinked.com or call 423-800-5413.
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Don's Meats Introduces House-Made Beef Tallow
Don's Meats is now offering house-made beef tallow, a versatile staple with countless uses. Perfect for high-heat cooking, baking, and roasting, it can also be used to season cast-iron cookware, condition wooden cutting boards and utensils, protect leather and metal surfaces, and even for candle making and skincare. Stop by to pick up this handcrafted kitchen essential and discover its many practical uses.
Medicare Misty's Misty Bolt Honored as Woman of Distinction
Congratulations to Misty Bolt, founder of Medicare Misty, on being named a 2026 Woman of Distinction. The prestigious honor recognizes women who demonstrate exceptional leadership, professional achievement, and a commitment to serving the Greater Chattanooga community through philanthropy, volunteerism, and civic involvement. Proceeds from the annual Women of Distinction Luncheon support Dolly Parton's Imagination Library in Hamilton County, helping inspire a lifelong love of reading in local children.
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Photography by Golden Hour Images
Photography by Emerald Dove Photography
Photography by Dealinked
BLESSING Creek FARMS
Find Fresh Air, Gentle Highland Cows, and a Little Farm Therapy Just a Short Drive From Chattanooga
Just over the state line in LaFayette, Blessing Creek Farms feels like the kind of place you tell a friend about before you even make it back to Chattanooga. Tucked under Pigeon Mountain on 127 acres, the family farm has quickly become a sweet little escape for anyone who needs fresh air, open space, and a few minutes with animals that seem to slow the whole day down.
The draw, of course, is the Highland cows. With their shaggy coats, gentle faces, and curious personalities, they are every bit as charming in person as they look in photos. But the farm is more than a quick picture stop. Guests can book guided farm experiences, cow cuddle sessions, birthday parties, picnics, date nights, photography sessions, and seasonal events, all with a pace that feels relaxed rather than rushed.
What makes Blessing Creek Farms especially special is how personal it feels. The Scott family has opened their farm in a way that feels welcoming, thoughtful, and rooted in care for the guests, certainly, but also for the animals.
For Chattanooga families, couples, or friends looking for something close to home but just different enough to feel like a getaway, Blessing Creek Farms is worth the drive. Visits are booked in advance, so plan ahead and reserve your experience online at BlessingCreekFarms.com. Bring your boots, your camera, and maybe someone who could use a little farm therapy.
Dog topia
WITH SUPERVISED PLAY, BOARDING, AND SPA SERVICES, DOGTOPIA IS REDEFINING THE DAY AWAY FROM HOME FOR LOCAL PUPS.
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
For Chattanooga dog parents, finding the right place for your pup can feel a little like choosing childcare. You want somewhere clean, safe, friendly, and fun, but you also want to know your dog is being understood, not just watched. That is the heart behind Dogtopia of Chattanooga–Southside, owned by Cameron Estey and one of the newest additions to the Southside community. Located at 1607 Central Avenue, Dogtopia offers dog daycare, boarding, and spa services in a modern, open-play setting designed to help dogs socialize, exercise, and enjoy a full, happy day. Instead of spending long hours alone at home, pups can play with other dogs of similar size, temperament, and play style under the care of trained Canine Coaches.
“DOGTOPIA IS BUILT AROUND THE IDEA THAT DOGS NEED MORE THAN CARE. THEY NEED PLAY, STRUCTURE, EXERCISE, AND CONNECTION.”
According to Cameron, “As a Chattanooga resident, I noticed that despite the abundance of dog parents that haven’t really embraced the benefits of regular daycare for their dogs. While there are options for daycare in the area, none are comparable to the Dogtopia value proposition. I felt there was a strong need for education on the benefits of daycare done correctly, and an opportunity to benefit the greater Chattanooga area.”
Health and safety practices include vaccination requirements, regular playroom cleaning and sanitization, wellness checks and close monitoring of dogs’ behavior and interactions. These protocols help the team maintain a clean, secure environment and respond when a dog needs redirection, rest or individual attention.
It is easy to see how this kind of place becomes part of a family’s routine. Maybe you have a puppy who needs socialization, a high-energy dog who needs a safe place to play, or a work schedule that makes long days at home feel unfair. Maybe you are planning a trip and want boarding that feels familiar, or your dog just needs a bath, nail trim, or little refresh from the spa team. For Southside residents, it also adds a convenient neighborhood option close to home, work, coffee stops, and weekend errands.
Dogtopia is built around the idea that dogs need more than care. They need play, structure, exercise, and connection. For owners, that means coming home to a dog who has had a full day, not just a day spent waiting at the door.
Dogtopia of Chattanooga–Southside is also offering a Founders’ Offer for unlimited weekly daycare for $79 per week for one year, with limited spots available. Families can learn more, book a first visit, or reserve the offer online at Dogtopia.com/ tennessee-chattanooga-southside.
For questions, contact the team at 423-8748767 or chattsouthside@dogtopia.com.
More Than Medicine
Meet the People Behind Chatt-Town Veterinary Care
Chatt-Town Veterinary Care was built on the belief that exceptional veterinary medicine begins with trust. Through its open-concept approach, clients are invited to be active participants in their pets’ care, creating an experience that feels transparent, educational, and personal. Led by Dr. Courtney Lewis, the clinic combines modern medicine with meaningful relationships, supported by a team chosen not only for their experience but also for their compassion, collaboration, and commitment to every family they serve.
ARTICLE BY KRISTI SELLERS
Meet Dr. Courtney
Long before Chatt-Town Veterinary Care opened its doors, Dr. Courtney Lewis envisioned a different kind of veterinary hospital, one where pet owners would never feel left in the dark about their pet’s care.
“My goal has always been to create a hospital where clients are not left wondering what is happening behind closed doors,” she says. “Instead, they are invited into the process, educated along the way, and treated like an important part of their pet’s healthcare team.”
That philosophy grew from a lifelong love of animals and years spent learning every aspect of veterinary medicine.
Beginning at age 12, Dr. Courtney shadowed in a veterinary clinic before working as a kennel assistant, technician, emergency receptionist, microbiology researcher, and herd manager while earning both her undergraduate and veterinary degrees at the UC Davis, the number one veterinary school in the nation.
“I am the kind of person that I have to try everything once to make sure I do or don’t like it,” she says. “By the time I entered veterinary school, I knew small animal general practice was where my heart stood.”
Her beloved dog, Phoebe, played an important role in that journey. As Dr. Courtney gained practical experience throughout veterinary school, Phoebe patiently allowed her to learn, receiving plenty of treats as she helped her become a more confident and compassionate veterinarian.
After 10 years of practicing in a variety of hospitals, Dr. Courtney finally felt ready to build the clinic she had always imagined. She found the perfect home in Chattanooga, a community she describes as welcoming, supportive of small businesses, and full of people who deeply love their pets. She knew bringing that vision to life would require one more ingredient. She needed a team that believed in it just as much as she did.
“My goal has always been to create a hospital where clients are not left wondering what is happening behind closed doors.”
Lindsay Smith Katie Wiegand Practice Manager Lead Veterinary Technician
When Dr. Courtney Lewis began planning ChattTown Veterinary Care, she knew exactly who she wanted beside her. She first met Lindsay Smith while the two worked together at the Humane Educational Society, where a professional relationship quickly grew into a close friendship. During a difficult chapter in Dr. Courtney’s career, Lindsay offered encouragement that helped renew her passion for veterinary medicine.
With more than 12 years of experience, including work in surgery, high-volume spay and neuter programs, and animal welfare initiatives, Lindsay now helps keep the practice running smoothly as Practice Manager. Outside the clinic, her greatest teacher has been Kate, her beloved 14-year-old “heart dog,” who has been by her side through marriage, motherhood, moves, and countless foster animals. “She has taught me to love, to slow down, and most importantly, patience,” Lindsay says.
Lead Veterinary Technician Katie Wiegand has spent more than a decade caring for animals, beginning in shelter medicine before finding her home in general practice. Along the way, she even stepped into the fast-paced world of emergency dispatching as a 911 operator, experiences that strengthened both her confidence and communication skills.
Dr. Courtney has admired Katie’s work ethic for years. “She is smart, hard-working, willing to speak up when needed, collaborative, and caring,” she says. “She has every piece of what a fantastic technician needs.”
Katie especially enjoys educating pet owners, believing informed families make healthier pets. Her approachable personality often helps put clients at ease, even during stressful moments. If your pet got into something they shouldn’t have, regardless of what it was, we need to know, so we can effectively treat the issue.
Heather Bruce
As one of the first people clients meet at Chatt-Town Veterinary Care, Heather Bruce understands that kindness can be just as important as clinical expertise.
As the heart of client communication, she helps foster trust and reassurance by supporting pet owners and serving as a compassionate link between families and the veterinary team.
Originally from Upstate New York, Heather earned a Bachelor of Science in Animal Science from Cornell University before building a career that has included clinical care, hospital management, marketing, outreach, and veterinary cancer immunotherapy. Those experiences have taken her across the country, but today she is proud to call Chattanooga home.
“I enjoy building relationships with clients and helping pets live happy, healthy lives,” Heather says.
For Dr. Courtney, Heather embodies everything she hoped to find in a client service professional.
“When I imagined the perfect client service representative, Heather fit every one of those criteria,” she says. “She has the experience, confidence, and compassion to make every client feel cared for.”
Outside of work, Heather enjoys hiking, exploring Chattanooga, and spending time with family and friends.
A PRACTICE BUILT WITH PURPOSE
While each team member brings a unique background and personality to Chatt-Town Veterinary Care, they all share the same commitment to making veterinary medicine more approachable and personal. Whether educating clients, comforting anxious pets, or celebrating another successful day over tacos from a favorite neighborhood restaurant, they have built more than a workplace. They’ve built a culture.
“I wanted a team that cared about making veterinary care feel less intimidating, more honest, and more connected for the families we serve,” Dr. Courtney says. “My job is to open doors for them and let them find their space.”
At Chatt-Town Veterinary Care, that philosophy is already making itself at home.
Defined by Your Lifestyle
Tips to Keep Your Home’s Plumbing Running Smoothly
LEE COMPANY’S PROFESSIONAL TEAM HIGHLIGHTS
THE MOST COMMON PLUMBING PROBLEMS WITH KIDS AND PETS IN THE MIX
ARTICLE BY LEE COMPANY | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Home plumbing is one of those things families hardly notice when it works. But when it doesn’t, a surprise puddle under the kitchen sink, a clogged toilet before guests arrive, or a dishwasher that will not drain, it can quickly throw off the rhythm of a busy household. Add kids, pets, bath time, muddy paws, snack crumbs, and the occasional mystery object, and your plumbing system works even harder.
The good news is that many common plumbing problems are preventable with a few simple habits.
Bathrooms are often the first place issues appear. Toilets are frequent targets for clogs, especially when they are used for anything other than toilet paper. “Flushable” wipes, cotton swabs, feminine products, too much toilet paper, and small toys can all create blockages that require more than a plunger. Make sure everyone in the family knows what can and cannot be flushed, and keep a small trash can close by for everything else.
Shower, tub, and sink drains need attention too. Hair, soap scum, toothpaste, and pet fur can build up quickly. A simple drain filter can catch much of the mess before it becomes a problem. Check drains regularly, especially after bath nights or dog washes, and take action when water starts moving slowly.
Leaks are another common trouble spot. A dripping faucet or showerhead might seem small, but even minor leaks waste water and can add to the monthly bill over time. Check bathroom and kitchen fixtures regularly, replace worn washers when needed, and ask family members to speak up when they notice a drip. Before leaving town for an extended trip, consider turning off the main water valve for extra peace of mind.
Running toilets are easy to ignore, but they can waste a surprising amount of water. If you hear hissing or notice the toilet refilling when it has not been flushed, check the flapper, handle, and fill valve. These parts can wear out over time and are often the cause of a toilet that keeps running.
In the kitchen, prevention starts at the sink. Garbage disposals are helpful, but they are not trash cans. Grease, coffee grounds, eggshells, fibrous foods, and oily scraps should go in the garbage rather than down the drain. Run cold water before, during, and after using the disposal to help food particles move through properly.
Kitchen sinks can also clog from grease, food particles, and debris. A mesh sink strainer is an easy way to catch scraps before they enter the pipes. Flushing the drain with hot water and baking soda every few weeks can also help keep buildup under control. Avoid chemical drain cleaners, which can be harsh on pipes.
Dishwashers deserve regular attention as well. Inspect the door seal, clean the filter, and check that the water temperature is around 120 degrees for best cleaning. If dishes come out dirty or water remains in the bottom, it may be time to troubleshoot the drain hose or pump.
Older homes may need extra care. Pipes, water heaters, and fixtures all have lifespans, and regular inspections can help identify small concerns before they become expensive repairs.
For minor plumbing issues, a little DIY can go a long way. But if a problem feels beyond a quick fix, or if you’re noticing several plumbing concerns at once, it may be time to call in the professionals.
Since 1944, Lee Company’s award-winning team has been serving homes and facilities for their plumbing, electrical, heating, and air conditioning. They’re all you need for your home, and who to contact when you need a job done right.
A little prevention goes a long way. With kids and pets in the mix, the best plumbing plan is simple: catch messes early, keep the wrong things out of drains, and call a professional when a problem feels bigger than a quick fix.
Visit leecompany.com for more information on their services and other helpful homeowner tips.
With kids and pets in the mix, the best plumbing plan is simple: catch messes early and keep the wrong things out of drains.
Dr. David Levine
Expert Advancing Canine Rehabilitation and Improving Pets’ Lives
Dr. David Levine, one of the rehabilitation specialists at the Veterinary Care and Specialty Group clinic in Chattanooga, began the road to his career-defining work in canine rehabilitation and physical therapy in the late eighties. “My background was in physical therapy for people,” shares Dr. Levine, “but I’d wondered why we didn’t have anything that’s somewhat equivalent to physical therapy for animals after surgery or with chronic conditions like arthritis.” While finishing his PhD at the University of Tennessee in the 1990s, he talked to several people in the veterinary school at UT and a collaborative
effort at research began. “Rehabilitation for dogs was a bit of an unknown field at that point,” he explains, “so myself and a few other colleagues started to implement what we do on the human side with dogs and sometimes cats and horses as well.”
Dr. Levine and his colleagues were instrumental in transforming the field into the widespread specialty in veterinary medicine it is today. “Certainly, we were catalysts for starting training programs and doing research to make it more widespread,” Dr. Levine says. “We worked to formalize the training and conduct research on how
ARTICLE BY EVE CRABTREE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY VCSG AND ANGELA FOSTER
we could optimize the ways it was being implemented in different specialties of veterinary medicine.” Part of advancing the field was publishing a formal textbook to train the next generations of veterinarians. “A veterinarian at the University of Tennessee and myself published our first book, Canine Rehabilitation and Physical Therapy, 20 plus years ago,” he explains. “It was the first textbook on canine rehabilitation and physical therapy and we still edit it to this day.” This textbook is just one example of the many advances that have come to the field over the 30 years of research Dr. Levine has led.
As a professor at both the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga and the University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine, Dr. Levine enjoys sharing his passion and training others in the field. “I enjoy preparing the next generation and helping anyone who is interested,” he says. “That’s really what it’s all about—exposing and mentoring students to the field.” Getting to both teach and practice canine rehabilitation is a joy for Dr. Levine. “I love the work itself and helping pets get better,” he explains. “They’re excited to come to rehab and feel better. I love helping our patients achieve optimal function and have the best life possible.”
Through his work at the Veterinary Care and Specialty Group clinic in Chattanooga and beyond, Dr. Levine has been able to help countless pets regain lost mobility and move in ways they couldn’t before. “The cases where we use wheelchairs are really fun because a dog goes from being unable to walk to running around an hour later after their wheelchair fitting,” he says. “Other times we’ve worked with geriatric or sports dogs and gotten them back to a place where they can just enjoy life or return to sport.”
To learn more about Dr. Levine and the Veterinary Care and Specialty Group clinic in Chattanooga, visit VCSGvets.com or email David.Levine@vcsgvets.com.
WILDWOOD PLAYSCAPE
A NATURAL HAVEN FOR PLAY IN THE HEART OF CHATTANOOGA
For a city as celebrated for its outdoor appeal as Chattanooga, Wildwood Playscape is the perfect addition to the expansive recreational terrain. The nature-inspired playground officially opened to the public in April, inviting children to experience play in one of the most natural settings the area offers: Enterprise South Nature Park.
ARTICLE BY DEMI GUILLORY
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Allison Harr is the park’s superintendent and says Wildwood Playscape is where play and nature come together as one powerful resource for children growing up in the digital age. “While technology certainly has its place, children also need time to climb, build, explore, imagine and take healthy risks in an outdoor environment,” Harr states.
With a dedicated park staff who worked tirelessly with Hamilton County officials to bring a vision to life, Wildwood Playscape is where they can do just that. “Rather than building a traditional playground filled with plastic equipment, the vision was to design a play environment that blended seamlessly into the natural beauty of Enterprise South Nature Park and encouraged exploration, creativity and discovery.”
Harr emphasizes that Wildwood Playscape is not an add-on to the park but a compliment to the existing landscape, making it ideal for adventure and imaginative play for some of its youngest explorers. The visuals alone make it clear that the playscape is not your average playground. “Instead of brightly colored plastic structures, the playscape uses natural materials such as wood, logs, boulders and earth features that blend into the surrounding forest,” she says.
These design elements inspire more interactive play with nature, something that park staff and Hamilton County officials recognized was lacking locally. “Nature-based play encourages creativity because there are no instructions or predetermined outcomes. A fallen log can become a pirate ship, a fort or a balance beam, allowing children to use their own imagination [instead of] following a scripted experience.”
Features such as tunnels, forts, climbing structures, balance elements and natural obstacles, Harr adds, also promote physical activity. And while this, in tandem with unstructured play, is important, fostering an understanding and respect for the environment is just as vital.
Just two months since opening, the feedback is already reaffirming what makes Wildwood Playscape special to the community. This, Harr says, is credit to what it offers beyond immersive play and education. “Wildwood Playscape creates opportunities for families to spend quality time together,” and for many, that means more than anything else ever could. “Parents and caregivers aren’t simply watching from the sidelines–they’re often exploring alongside their children, building memories that can last a lifetime.”
What Harr hopes for every family visiting is that their experience ignites something deeper within all of them that keeps them coming back for more.
“I encourage them to take their time. Let children explore at their own pace, venture beyond the playscape onto the park’s hiking trails, and enjoy everything that Enterprise South Nature Park has to offer.”
For information on operating hours and latest news, visit parks.hamilton.gov.
“Educational signage further enhances the experience by teaching about local ecosystems and the importance of conservation,” she explains. “The playscape encourages children to observe wildlife, appreciate native plants and develop a connection to the natural world.”
Charlotte Richardson Highlights How Communities Can Make A Difference For Tennessee Foster Families
TENNESSEE KIDS BELONG
ARTICLE BY EVE CRABTREE | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Tennessee Kids Belong (TKB) provides resources to help communities support their local foster care families. Whether it’s partnering with businesses or walking individuals through support steps, Charlotte and her team are passionate about getting the community involved. With foster parents typically burning out at a rate of about 50% within the first year, supporting foster parents and foster kids is crucial. “It’s really important that we don’t forget these families that are taking care of these children,” Charlotte shares. “Research shows that the longer a child remains in a stable, nurturing environment, the greater the potential for healing.”
A fundamental view of TKB is that while everyone is not necessarily called to foster, everyone is called to support in some capacity. Here are several ways communities and individuals can support the foster care system:
TKB’s Belong Project allows children eligible for adoption can come to a fun location to be celebrated. On I Belong days, kids can choose to record a video sharing their interests, dreams, and hopes for a family. “These videos give children an opportunity to
highlight their unique personalities,” Charlotte explains. “Then, we use these videos to match these kids with families that are looking to adopt.” Communities can help by volunteering for the day, donating lunch, or providing a location for the event.
The Foster Friendly Business Program provides an opportunity for local businesses to give a discount to foster families to suppor` t and thank them for their work.
Faith communities can partner with TKB to provide resources for supporting foster families and children. Some ways churches can support are making care packages, hosting a foster parent night out, or starting W.R.A.P. teams, which focus on supporting foster parents through Words of encouragement, Respite care, Acts of service, and Prayer.
For those interested in getting involved or learning more about what TKB does, Charlotte is over the Chattanooga area and excited to connect. Email her at crichardson@tnkidsbelong.org or head to AmericasKidsBelong.org/states/TN/ to find more ways to create a foster friendly community.
Lance Asti Owner & Lead Lighting Designer
Clumpies Ice Cream Co.
A
Familiar Face Leads the Way Toward a Sweeter Future
It’s hard to imagine this Chattanooga institution without Ashley Bottoms — and the feeling is mutual.
This spring, upon her 10-year anniversary with the company, Bottoms became the owner and operator of the beloved ice cream shop, taking the reins from Rock City Enterprises. At a natural transition point with growth opportunities on the horizon for both businesses, it was an ideal time for new ownership.
“I can’t imagine my life without Clumpies,” Bottoms says. “It’s been 10 years building it, and I don’t feel done.”
Bottoms first joined the Clumpies team in 2016 as the “Ice Cream Chef.” She was tasked with leading the kitchen team and developing new flavors. Under her guidance, the menu expanded beyond its “Classic” flavors to include rotating seasonal flavors. Guests enjoy Cookie Dough, Coffee Toffee, and Mint Chocolate Chunk year-round. Since the first seasonal menu in 2016, flavors like Whiskey Caramel Cornflake Crunch, Lucky Charms, Dasher’s Delight, Red Velvet Cake, and Pumpkin Caramel Cake have earned ardent fans who await their return year after year.
“It’s all made in house, by human hands, in small batches, here in Chattanooga,” Bottoms says. “That’s really what makes it special.”
ARTICLE BY KATE ROBERTSON PARRISH PHOTOGRAPHY BY KRISTINA ARMSTRONG
After six years leading production, Bottoms stepped into a director role in 2022—a move that pulled her out of the day-to-day grind and asked her to look at the business as a whole rather than batch by batch. By the end of 2024, she was thinking about the long-term future of the business and began exploring the possibilities of Clumpies as a standalone business, and what it would take to get there. Then, in October 2025, Doug Chapin from Rock City came to her. That conversation was the beginning. Bottoms officially took over in April.
These days, Bottoms is back in the daily grind, more involved in the kitchen than she’s been in recent years. “It feels like coming home,” she says. She likes being back in the weeds, where the ice cream actually gets made.
Some of that work is about the next generation. Over the years, Clumpies has partnered with local brands and institutions, including the Howard School, where the company has worked with Rock City’s Future Ready Institute to build out a teaching kitchen. The collaboration runs on project-based learning, anchored by an annual ice cream flavor competition. Howard students tour Clumpies and learn the process, then head back to develop their own flavors, working alongside the chefs to taste-test and refine their recipes. The 2025 winner was Goofy Goober, a pineapple pink lemonade sorbet. This partnership remains, and the beloved competition will carry on.
As for what’s changing, much of the answer is what isn’t. Many of the same people are still on the team. The local collaborations that have always been a favorite now have more room to breathe with Bottoms leading production again, and the shops have settled into a good rhythm with their seasonal menus. For now, Bottoms says the focus will stay on the Northshore and Southside shops.
What excites her most about the next chapter is still hard to put into words. “It still feels very surreal,” she says. Standing at the annual Ice Cream Social at the Chattanooga Market, her family by her side, she felt the whole story come full circle — and somewhere in it, the outlines of a family business.
“It hasn’t hit me yet that it’s ours now, but I want to do the Clumpies family proud,” Bottoms says. “I’m excited to carry it on.”
Chattanooga Play Guide
INDOOR ADVENTURES FOR KIDS TO GATHER, EXPLORE & PLAY
ARTICLE BY BELINDA MARTIN
PHOTOGRAPHY
BY CREATIVE DISCOVERY MUSEUM
Rainy days, hot afternoons, and restless weekends all call for one thing: a dependable indoor spot where kids can climb, jump, and imagine. Chattanooga has plenty of family-friendly options, from soft-play spaces for little ones to adventure parks for bigger kids.
Local Indoor Play Spots Kids Will
Love
Creative Discovery Museum | Part museum, part play space, Creative Discovery Museum gives children room to climb, splash, build, dig, create, and explore through hands-on exhibits. 321 Chestnut Street | CDMFun.org
Jumpin’ Jellybeans | This soft-play space features a large ball pit and plenty of room for little ones to climb, crawl, and explore. 1007 Ashland Terrace #104B | JumpinJellybeansChattanooga.com
PlayPalz | PlayPalz offers a clean, colorful indoor playground where kids can climb, crawl, slide, and play. 6901 Lee Highway #100 | PlayPalzIndoorPlayground.com
Red Bank Bounce | This children’s inflatable park gives kids a safe place to jump, climb, laugh, and burn off energy. 2011 Dayton Boulevard | RedBankBounce.com
The Bunny Hive | The Bunny Hive offers classes, community, and connection for little ones from birth through age five. 20 Cherokee Boulevard #114 | TheBunnyHive. com/Chattanooga
Modern Play Gym | This kids’ gym gives families a safe, high-energy space for movement, play, and skill-building. 646 Overbridge Lane | ModernPlayGym.com
FROM ONE LOCAL MOM TO ANOTHER Belinda Martin
As a mom to an (almost) four-year-old girl, I know how helpful it is to have go-to places where kids can play and parents can actually connect. We have visited many of these spots for birthday parties, play dates, and girls' days. Summer’s slower pace makes it the perfect time to enjoy an indoor adventure together.
TREY & KATIE KENNEDY
ON MARRIAGE, KIDS, AND THE COMEDY OF REAL LIFE
Trey Kennedy makes a living finding comedy in regular life. Marriage. Toddlers. Yoga pants. The Thursday-night scramble between school dropoffs, soccer practice, and whatever has to be done by morning. Twelve years in, it shows: millions of followers across every platform, three stand-up specials, a sold-out Relatable Tour, and a style of humor fans send each other captioned, “Are you watching me?” He delivers the kind of comedy that travels because everyone’s living some version of it.
Katie, his wife of six years, is a former biomedical engineer who also built a modeling career. She’s now raising their kids and co-hosting Correct Opinions alongside Trey — the show where the two of them swap takes on marriage, parenting, and whatever came up that week.
Trey has been at this longer than people realize. An Edmond, Oklahoma kid who grew up playing basketball described himself as a “shy kid who never thought he’d be an entertainer.” He started making videos while attending Oklahoma State University. After building millions of followers on Vine before the platform shut down, he gave himself six months on Instagram and Facebook to see whether he could rebuild from zero. He did. Stand-up soon followed. His first special, Are You For Real?, streams on YouTube; the second, Grow Up, on Amazon Prime; the third, built around the Relatable Tour, wrapped earlier this year. “I’ve been trying to be funny every week for like twelve years now,” he says. A slow climb, made one bit at a time.
ARTICLE BY KALI KASPRZYK PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
“I’ve been trying to be funny every week for like twelve years now.”
Most of what Trey writes lately starts in his own kitchen. Thomas is three and a half, and he is, in his father’s words, “a movie.” He narrates his own life from the moment his eyes open and mispronounces words in ways his parents now repeat to each other because no one else would believe them. His younger sister, Eva, is what Katie calls “the calm one.” With a third now in the mix, the Kennedys are officially outnumbered.
After six years of marriage, Trey and Katie have learned that the partnership runs best when it gets its own time on the calendar. So once a week, they leave the kids with a sitter and go out for coffee. “You need a system,” Katie says. “It’s about taking time to look each other in the eye. Not the kids. Not the cameras. Just each other.”
The same instinct shapes the work. Most of Trey’s trial and error happens onstage or on Instagram, but the first read is always Katie’s. “There’s only been one time ever I’ve had to be like, ‘you’re not doing that,’” she says. The rest of the time, she just laughs first.
FEATURING TREY & KATIE KENNEDY
Trey and Katie talk about marriage, parenting, and the moments that don’t make the Instagram feed.
Watch or listen to the full conversation wherever you get your podcasts.
HAIR & MAKEUP BY MIKAYLA CRANE
Birthday Celebrations:
This year provides an extra level of excitement as we celebrate our country ’s 250th birthday. We are
honoring not just one single day, but the culmination of many chapters that have been written and how they come together America’s history was built by each milestone supporting, layering, and reflecting upon the others.
This month is exciting for me: it’s my birthday month! It’s time for me to celebrate and relish my own milestones of another year, personally and professionally. When I think about the past years, I often reflect on how I got my name. I was born on a rainy morning, and my mom, noticing the steady, soft rainfall outside, named me Misty Dawn. My name is the perfect name for me. It resonates deeply and reminds me that each morning there’s a promise of light breaking through.
And if you are celebrating a birthday this month – HAPPY BIRTHDAY to YOU! If you are turning 65 this month or this year, I promise I can help shine a light on how to navigate your next chapter.
Turning 65 is a milestone, and one that comes with a timeline, paperwork, and decisions about which Medicare coverage fits you best Medicare is certainly not a one-size-fits-all package or process. It can be overwhelming I can help you approach Medicare with clarity and confidence. I will walk you through the many layers in easy-to-understand language We will review and compare various options for your specific situation And when we are done, you can feel confident and good about the decision you make.
So, this August, or this year, when you turn 65, let it be the moment you move from confusion to clarity. Like your birthday, your next chapter can start with a new sense of confidence and a higher level of expectations There’s no time like the “present.” Life is a gift and a blessing
Let’s open your next chapter with Medicare – together!
This August, begin your forever with an engagement or promise ring from Salma’s. Whether you are popping the question or signifying a sweet promise, we can help you choose the perfect ring for your perfect person. Come shop our extensive selection of beautiful rings starting at $99.
Want something one of a kind?
We can custom-design and make the exact ring of your dreams. If you can dream it, we can make it!
Visit Salma’s and create something unforgettable.
CINNAMON MONKEY BREAD IS A FUN DESSERT FOR CHILDREN TO MAKE AND SHARE!
ARTICLE BY PAULI REEP
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
There is little more satisfying to your sweet tooth than ooey-gooey cinnamon rolls. Here is an easy and fun way to make this tearable, shareable treat!
aroun d
INGREDIENTS
• 1/2 cup melted butter
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1/3 cup firmly packed brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 3 (12 oz.) cans of buttermilk biscuits
COOKING INSTRUCTIONS
Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Generously coat the inside of a bundt pan with cooking spray or butter. Melt the butter in a pot or bowl. Mix the sugars and cinnamon in a separate bowl.
Open one can of biscuits, separate, and cut each into four sections. Next, roll each quarter into a ball and then put each one into the sugar mixture to coat. Place the balls in the bundt pan in a single layer and drizzle a little melted butter evenly over the top. Repeat with the other two cans of biscuits. Sprinkle the remaining sugar mixture over the top and bake for 30-35 minutes.
Be sure to let cool for a minute or two before turning the bread onto a plate and carefully removing the pan. If you leave the monkey bread in the pan much longer, it will stick and be hard to remove.
I sometimes make icing by adding a few tablespoons of milk to about a 1/2 cup of powdered sugar with a splash of vanilla. Drizzle over the top while warm and enjoy!
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AUGUST 2026
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
AUGUST 1ST
Chattanooga Margarita Festival
First Horizon Pavilion | 5:00 PM
Sip, sample, and vote for your favorite margarita as Chattanooga restaurants and bars compete for the title of Best Margarita in Chattanooga. This festive evening at First Horizon Pavilion includes mini tastings, music, and a lively summer atmosphere.
AUGUST 5TH
Rapid Learning Kayak Program
6:00 PM
This weekly evening program introduces beginning and novice paddlers to whitewater kayaking with guided instruction and provided equipment. Participants can build confidence, learn foundational skills, and enjoy a hands-on outdoor experience from 6:00PM to 8:30PM.
AUGUST 14TH
Chattanooga River Games
Ross’s Landing
Chattanooga River Games brings action sports, music, and waterfront energy to Ross’s Landing for a free three-day festival. Expect extreme sports, EDM, riverfront excitement, and a celebration of Chattanooga’s outdoor culture.
AUGUST 15TH
Lakeside Live Concert Series
Chester Frost Park | 4:00 PM
Enjoy an evening by the water at Chester Frost Park with live music, family fun, and a relaxed lakeside setting. Bring chairs or blankets and settle in for preshow activities, food, and a free outdoor concert.
AUGUST 23RD
Watermelon Festival
Old McDonald Farm | 11:00 AM
Celebrate all things watermelon at McDonald Farm with sweet treats, refreshing drinks, creative vendors, and family-friendly fun. This free summer festival brings together fresh flavors, local makers, and plenty of cheerful, watermelon-themed activities.
AUGUST 29TH
Animeverse
Chattanooga Convention Center | 10:00 AM
Anime fans can gather at the Chattanooga Convention Center for a weekend of cosplay, gaming, panels, celebrity guests, vendors, and live performances. This fan-focused convention celebrates anime culture with opportunities to shop, connect, compete, and enjoy immersive experiences.
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