PUT DOWN YOUR PHONE AND PICK UP
SEPTEMBER 1, 2026 VOLUME 1 | ISSUE 9
Free
GOOD EATS: WAKO
JAMES LEG
SOUTHSIDE’S OWN FRESH-BREWED CRAFT BEER @ HELLO MONTY’S 306 W MAIN ST
Books, Community, Wine Open Mic Poetry Mondays Guest Lectures and Book Signings 18 Books Clubs
@bookandbarrelringgold 96 Depot St, Ringgold, GA
2 » Livewire | GET OUT THERE AND HAVE FUN
September 1, 2026 | Vol 1 No 9
Letter from the editor My sincere apologies for the lost clues on the crossword last week! A reader DM’d me to inquire, and I sent her the un-cropped pdf. Margie Burke sends me a pdf with the puzzle and the solution together in the same file, and all I know to do is screenshot them separately. Then I relink the image in InDesign to replace the old with the new. My fear has always been that the solution wouldn't match the puzzle, so now I have a new fear!
Connecting Through Artistic Expression 1307 Dodds Ave (423) 624 - LEGS
info@barkinglegs.org www.barkinglegs.org
In this issue, Cole Duncan (Bone Wizard Media) got some amazing shots of people doing crazy things off the bridge. Jenn McCormick sat down with Gin Phillips to pick her brain about her new murder mystery that is set at Ruby Falls. Lori Kyle decompressed over some beautiful sushi at Wako. Doug Bales gives us some background on Chattanooga’s own James Leg! At the end on page 22 there is a list of where all, at the moment, Livewire can be found. I copied Bitter Southerner magazine by using the word "stockists".
Monique Clouse Editor-in-Chief
Cover Story……………………………… 4
Art Around Town……………………16
Puzzles…………………………………… 5
Good Eats……………………………… 20
Staff Picks……………………………… 5
Life In the ‘Noog………………………21
Photo Collage………………………… 7
Puzzle Answers………………………21
Live Music Calendar ……………… 8
Frivolity………………………………… 23
Book Review……………………………13
Poem by lfp…………………………… 23
Events Calendar ……………………14
Homegrown handmade electric guitars, one at a time, one of a kind instagram.com/hembree_guitars
On the cover: James Leg photo by Eva Puehrer PUBLISHER & ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Monique Clouse PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Monique Clouse CONSIGLIERE AND CHAUFFEUR Terry Clouse ADVERTISING SALES Monique Clouse, Barbara Autry CALENDAR COORDINATOR Monique Clouse CONTRIBUTORS Marc Michael, Chuck Crowder, Lori Kyle, Jim Tanner, Douglas Bales, Jenn McCormick POETRY by lfp, PHOTOS by Cole Duncan aka Bone Wizard Media, Jim Tanner DESIGN CONSULTANTS Eric Jackson, Angela Rich CIRCULATION Monique Clouse, Terry Clouse
In the heart of Downtown Ringgold, GA Handcrafted Coffee & Smoothies Pastries with Keto Options Breakfast and Lunch Event Space Rental
LIVEWIRE MAGAZINE LLC produces LiveWire Magazine bi-monthly and distributes 2,000 copies free at over 50 locations throughout the city. Printed at Advantage Printing and Mailing Services. © 2026 LiveWire Magazine LLC. All rights reserved. 910 Georgia Ave PO Box 63 Chattanooga, TN 37401 livewire-chatt.com
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Home of the Zenith Man Collection Livewire | VOLUME 1 • ISSUE 9 « 3
COVER STORY
JAMES LEG THE RHODES SCHOLAR
By: Douglas Bales
Photo by William Johnson
James Leg is an enigma. He is arguably the most widely known artist to emerge from the Chattanooga music scene in the last couple of decades, but James Leg isn’t really his name. John Wesley Myers was born in Port Arthur, Texas. His father was a Baptist preacher, and his mother was a member and soloist of the church choir. When John was four years old his family moved to Chattanooga where his father soon began his work at Highland Park Baptist church. His dad had an old piano in the garage that John took a liking to and by the time he was six his parents decided to hire a piano teacher to give him lessons. In his first recital John performed ‘The Yellow Rose of Texas’. His first teacher moved away and was replaced by a lady that gave young John a hand-written set of chords, notes, keys, and rudiments. He says that this was the most useful thing he ever had, lesson-wise. When he was 10 years old, his third teacher used a different approach. She gave him books that were full of cartoonish children’s songs that just didn’t hit with John. This instructor finally told his parents that they were wasting their money and her time because the boy showed no interest in the piano. If she could only see him now... Learning on his own and using the notes that his second teacher had given him, he taught himself to master the keyboard. He would sit and play at any opportunity. By the time he was in his late teens and early twenties, he was exploring the town and honing his skills. Sometimes, late at night, he would go into places like the Read House or the Chattanooga Choo-Choo, 4 » Livewire | GET OUT THERE AND HAVE FUN
where there were pianos in the lobbies, and play for hours to noone but himself and the night-shift desk clerks. He was inspired by the soul and blues of Ray Charles, Stevie Wonder, Otis Spann and Nina Simone, but he also loved the garage rock sounds of early Rolling Stones, The Stooges and The Sonics. In the mid 90’s, John began playing with several local bands. Sharpening his sound and learning the ins and outs of performing. Around 2001, John joined up with Uncle Lightnin’. He considers this his first “real band” since the group was playing out of town regularly and was getting national radio play. In 2002 he formed the Black Diamond Heavies with his friend Mark ‘Porkchop’ Holder. This band had a few personnel changes but settled in as a trio with John Wesley Myers on keys and vocals, Porkchop on guitar and vocals, and Van Campbell on drums. This group quickly became an underground sensation, and John left Uncle Lightnin’ to go on the road with The Heavies. They toured the U.S. and Europe almost constantly. After a few years Mark ‘Porkchop’ Holder left the group, but John and Van continued to play as a two-piece. All in all, the Black Diamond Heavies released 5 albums. Eventually, the transient lifestyle and the road caught up with them, and The Black Diamond Heavies were dissolved. But John
Staff Picks from the Calendar Labretta Suede & The Motel 6 New Zealand transplants via NYC, catch this electrifying show while they're down south. They will be at the Muddy Roots Festival in Cookville. But you can see them with the Unsatisfied at Cherry Street Tavern! Friday Sept 4. John Cowan Trio Newgrass legend. Doobie Brothers too! His trio will be at the intimate feeling Songbirds Sept 4. David Grier The very next night another bluegrass legend will be at Songbirds Septemebr 5. Flatpick guitarist. Mdou Moctar Nigerien (not Nigerian) and belongs to the Tuareg people of the Sahara desert. He mixes that with rock music for us at Cherry Street Tavern Septemeber 15. Neil Hamburger Some folks say he is awful, but that is kind of the point. See him be greasy and awkward and funny at JJ's Bohemia on September 11. Hamlet Conasauga Shakespeare Coalition in Dalton is headed up by Lane Davies and Steve Ray. Outdoor shows at Praters Mill all weekend September 5 and 6. Cast Iron Storytelling Next Exit Productions will bring this to Plant bar. Like long-form standup comedy. Storytelling is an art and skill that you should go check out on Septemebr 8. ODD MARKET Seed Theater will be bringing the weirdness to Stove Works on September 5.
Labretta Suede & the Motel 6
Solutions to puzzles on page 21.
Livewire | VOLUME 1 • ISSUE 9 « 5
was determined to continue to make a living as a musician. After years of hard-core touring, he decided to separate his stage persona from his real life and adopted the name James Leg.
much, but he cranks the Rhodes to full volume and uses a few distortion and fuzz pedals that make the entire venue shake with excitement. His voice is a growl that demands your attention. His music has been described as everything from Punk-Blues to Dirty-Blues to pure Rock and Roll. To see James Leg perform live is a truly electrifying experience.
So far, he has three full albums, and half-a-dozen singles out under this name. He’s also played on a few collaborations with Left Lane Cruiser and The Cut in the Hill Gang. He is currently working on a fourth James Leg album and is still touring all the time.
James Leg’s records are always available at his shows and on the Alive Naturalsound Records website as well as all of the usual streaming platforms. Alive Naturalsound also has most of the Black Diamond Heavies and collaboration recordings that he’s been involved in.
He spends about six months of the year playing in Europe and the other six months doing shows, writing and recording in the U.S. His shows are a tsunami of Photo by Eva Puehrer sound. It’s usually just him playing his trusty Fender Rhodes piano as well as a Hammond bass keyboard, often backed by one of his stable of drummers. This may not seem like
Do yourself a favor. Go check out James Leg. Put in your earplugs and get ready to sweat.
The
WOODSHOP Weekly Programming
ANd Concerts Schedule: thewoodshoplisteningroom.com
JHETT black’s
Tuesday
Bluesday Every Tuesday 6 PM
Live audience blues radio show with Jhett Black & The Big River Blues Band with the best in regional and national guests every week.
Scenic City
Soul Night Every Thursday
8PM Hosted by Bryant ‘Bass Hitter’ Russell Classic Soul & R&B.Sweatiest night at The Woodshop. Rotating cast of vocalists
Forever Bluegrass Every Friday 8PM Real, Traditional Bluegrass. Different bands weekly, Curated by Cindy Pinion & Forever Bluegrass
The Woodshop Listening Room • St. Elmo • Chattanooga 6 » Livewire | GET OUT THERE AND HAVE FUN
River Games at Ross's Landing August 14-16, 2026 Photos by Bone Wizard Media
Livewire | VOLUME 1 • ISSUE 9 « 7
LIVE MUSIC CALENDAR
# MONDAYS @ Barlery Backroom | 6:00 PM
Curated Cocktails. The Sweatiest Night at The Woodshop Listening Room.
OLD TIME JAM — Traditional old time music jam.
@ Miller Park | 12-1 PM. Free. All Ages
# TUESDAYS @ Barrelhouse Ballroom | 6:30 PM. FREE RANDY STEELE'S BLUEGRASS JAM — Every Tuesday, Beginner
Jam at 6:30, Intermediate Jam at 7:30
@ The Woodshop | 5 PM (doors), 6 PM (show). All
Ages JHETT BLACK'S TUESDAY BLUESDAY — Live Audience
Broadcast showcasing the best in regional and touring blues and roots artists- with elevated cocktails and award winning blues, broadcasted over WUTC. 88.1. 6pm - 8pm
# WEDNESDAYS @ Back Stage Bar | 7-10 pm ANNA BALDREE — Every
Wednesday.
# THURSDAYS @ Elsie's Daughter | 6 - 9 PM. FREE. All Ages LON ELDRIDGE AT ELSIE'S — Lon Eldridge brings his smooth swingin' stylings to the Elsie's patio every Thursday. Enjoy craft cocktails, an inspired dinner menu, and stroll the Choo Choo Gardens.
@ The Woodshop | 8 - 10 PM SCENIC CITY SOUL NIGHT —
Classic Soul, R&B, and Funk featuring improvisational sets with a rotating cast of performers and vocalists. Elevated BBQ and
NOONTUNES — Returning for another season every Thursday in September, Noontunes will feature local musicians every week. Hosted in partnership with the City of Chattanooga Parks & Outdoors and the City of Chattanooga Office of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy,
@ Back Stage Bar | 8:00: PM
@ Barlery | 6:00 PM. 21+
@ Tremont Spot | 7PM $10 suggested
TUESDAY CHILL — Folk / Americana. Featuring Mark Jones, Chris Scoggins, Thomas Trouy, or Matt Mayer
—Next to Tremont Tavern. With Richard Daigle, Jefferson Ross and Cat Campbell
# WEDNESDAY SEPT 2 @ Barking Legs Theater | 7:30 - 9:30 PM
Every Friday, Enjoy his acoustical style music on the back porch on Station Street.
@ The Woodshop | 8 - 10 pm FOREVER BLUEGRASS FRIDAYS — Cindy Pinion with
Forever Bluegrass curates and brings traditional bluegrass from regional and national talent with different bands each week. Always Real, traditional bluegrass. 8-10pm every Friday
# TUESDAY SEPT 1 @ Barking Legs Theater | 7:30 - 8:30 PM TUESDAY NITE BIG BAND — Tuesday instead of Monday! Founded by pianist and band leader Paul Lohorn and saxophonist Ed Leamon, more than eighteen Chattanooga area professional musicians plus the Paige Denton on vocals.
8 » Livewire | GET OUT THERE AND HAVE FUN
JD SIMO & GHALIA VOLT
— Blues / Rock
JD Simo & Ghalia Volt
JOEY WINSLET — Every Thurs-
JESSE JAMES JUNKURTH —
@ The Signal | 7:00 PM
WEDNESDAY JAZZ — Alan Wyatt Quartet. Shawn Perkinson on guitar, David Schwab on bass and Stephen Humphries on drums.
day
# FRIDAYS @ Back Stage Bar | 8:00: PM
CHATTANOOGA SONG CIRCLE
Alan Wyatt Quartet
@ Barlery | 6:00 PM. 21+ TAYLOR LEVIN — Folk / Amer-
icana
@ Barrelhouse Ballroom | 6:00 PM PORCH JAMS — On the patio. Cody Landress-Gibson and the Reckon Crew.
@ The Woodshop | 6 PM (show). Free ( Please RSVP) THE ENCORE SESSIONS —
Benefit Supporting Local Musicians' Mental Health. Featured Artists: Jose Hairston, Justin Grasham, Butch Ross, Gordon Inman, Taylor Freeman, and Gio
# FRIDAY SEPT 4 @ Barking Legs Theater | 7:30 - 9:30 PM ONE HIT WONDERS — Their mission is to focus on artists that topped the chart with an incredible song just one time.
@ Barlery | 9:00 PM 21+ DANIMAL & FRIENDS —
Alt-Tronica
@ Barrelhouse Ballroom | 8 PM (doors), 9 PM (show). $25
Adv / $30 DOS. 18+ SODOWN WITH BLOSSM -VALLERIA & JAWNRA — Elec-
tronic / Bass Music
@ Cherry Street Tavern | 9 PM $10 21+ THE UNSATISFIED — With Labretta Suede & The Motel 6
# THURSDAY SEPT 3 @ Songbirds | 7:00 PM CHATHAM RABBITS — Ameri-
cana / Folk The Unsatisfied
@ Gate 11 Distillery | 8:00 PM. $5
show is all ages, and kids 12 and under do not need a ticket.
SUMMER JAZZ NIGHTS AT GATE 11 — Chattanooga Jazz
# SUNDAY SEPT 6 @ Cherry Street Tavern | 8:00 PM. $15. 21+
Festival's Summer Jazz Nights series wraps up at Gate 11 with an open jazz jam, giving musicians a chance to sit in and play alongside other jazz performers. Murder By Death
@ Hi-Fi Clydes | 8:30 PM. $5. 21+ ZECH DALLAS BAND — Chattanooga-based, 90s- country-forward act blending classic grit with modern edge
MAGIC BIRDS — bluegrass
@ Puckett's | 7:30 - 9:00 PM. Free
COURTNEY HOLDER — Stevie Nicks meets Jewel with a southern flare.
GRAYSON LEDFORD — Traditional Country / Bluegrass
JUSTINE BLANCHET — Country
@ Songbirds | 7:00 PM JOHN COWAN TRIO — Bluegrass / Americana. When John Cowan and Luke Bulla perform together, their shows reflect 25 years of shared history, musical trust, and genuine friendship.
@ Ross's Landing | 6:30 PM, FREE RIVERFRONT NIGHTS- LETS GROOVE TONIGHT — Earth
Wind & Fire tribute from following Kool & Gang tribute
@ Songbirds | 7:00 PM CHATTANOOGA HORN AUTHORITY — This eight-piece
ensemble has become one of the region's most distinctive acts.
@ The Woodshop | 5 PM (doors), 6 PM (show) DAVID GRIER — Three-time IBMA Guitar Player of the Year and Grammy-winning collaborator. John Cowan Trio
# SEPT 4-6 @ The Caverns | 6:30 PM All Ages MURDER BY DEATH — Central Time. Indie rock band from Bloomington, Indiana, known for their dark, cinematic blend of Gothic Americana, folk, and cello-driven orchestral rock. The
SUNNY WAR — Pairing intricate acoustic guitar with songwriting shaped by both punk and Americana traditions. With Bellringer from New Orleans
# SATURDAY SEPT 5 @ Audubon Acres | 5-8 PM $20 includes 1 beer
@ JJ's Bohemia | 8 PM (doors), 9 PM (show). $10. 21+
@ Puckett's | 7:30 - 9:00 PM. Free
Pinson joined by Tyler Martelli. Adam Brown
Sunny War
@ The Reading Room Bar | 7:30 PM (show). Free. 21+ AMBIENT MUSIC NIGHT — Recurring event featuring local and regional musicians, the first Sunday of every month
# MONDAY SEPT 7 @ Barnhardt Hall | 9AM - 9 PM. Free LABOR DAY AT THE POST
— The City of Fort Oglethorpe and US 101 welcome Lauren Alaina (7:30p) and Mark Wills (6p), with special guest The Singing Barber, Noah Peters (5p) On the Barnhardt Stages, Remembering January (4p), Hiwassee Bend (3p), Shelby Mosteller (2p), and James Rogers (1p).
SetPemBer ShowS
4 - Courtney Holder 8 - Comedy Joe Pettis and Jeremy Mesi 11 - ComedyNeil Hamburger and Major Entertainer
231 E MLK BLVD Lauren Alaina
David Grier
# SUNDAY SEPT 6 @ Barrelhouse Ballroom | 1:00 PM. Free
# WEDNESDAY SEPT 9 @ Barrelhouse Ballroom | 6:00 PM PORCH JAMS — On the patio. Lew and 2 Dudes
SUNDAY FUNDAY — Danimal
Livewire | VOLUME 1 • ISSUE 9 « 9
@ The Signal | 6:30 PM
@ Cherry Street Tavern | 8:00 PM. $10. 21+
@ The Signal (Parlour) | 7:00 PM
GREENSKY BLUEGRASS
CODY LANDRESS-GIBSON
— Progressive bluegrass and jam band music.
— Album Release 'Music to Get By On' with Dalton Mills and Cody Bolden
KYLIE MORGAN — Country. Healed Cowgirl Tour
@ Hi-Fi Clydes | 8:30 PM. $10. 21+ Greensky Bluegrass
THE ESSENTIALS — Rock & roll
party band
@ The Signal | 6:30 PM HERE COME THE MUMMIES
— Funk / Rock. Eight-piece funk-rock band of 5000 year-old Egyptian Mummies with a one-track mind.
@ The Woodshop | 5 PM (doors), 6 PM (show) JAKE BLOUNT — Blount has played Carnegie Hall, Newport Folk Festival and NPR Tiny Desk, records for Smithsonian Folkways, and worked as a music consultant on Sinners.
/ $20 DOS. 18+ Here Come the Mummies The Essentials
@ Memorial Auditorium | 7:30 PM
KOTA THE FRIEND — Hip-Hop
red dirt and Americana favorites on the Work of Heart tour. With Corey Smith
FLATLAND CAVALRY — Texas
@ The Woodshop | 5:00 PM (doors), 6:00 PM (show) JOE KAPLOW — Folk / Sing-
er-Songwriter. Homestead Gold tour. Hippy Cowboy from Bonny Doon, CA
# SEP 11 - 12 @ The Caverns | 7 PM CELESTIAL CAVERNS FEAT. LEVEL UP — Central Time.
Dubstep, heavy bass, and future bass. With special guests
Kota the Friend Flatland Cavalry.jpg
@ Songbirds | 7:00 PM NOLAN TAYLOR — Americana / Singer-Songwriter with Jess Woodland
@ Puckett's | 7:30 - 9:00 PM. Free BOB KEEL — Americana / Singer-Songwriter
# FRIDAY SEPT 11 @ Barrelhouse Ballroom | 7 PM (doors), 8 PM (show). $20
Adv / $25 DOS. 18+ BACK 2 MAC - A TRIBUTE TO FLEETWOOD MAC — Tribute
Bob Keel
Rock
@ Barlery | 9:00 PM. 21+ DANIMAL & FRIENDS —
Alt-Tronica
Level Up
# SATURDAY SEPT 12 @ Barrelhouse Ballroom | 7PM (doors), 8PM (show). $15 Adv
# THURSDAY SEPT 10 @ Barrelhouse Ballroom | 7 PM (doors), 8 PM (show). $30 Adv / $35 DOS. 21+
TYNAN and MYTHM on SEPTEMBER 11, and CYCLOPS and SHARLITZ WEB on SEPTEMBER 12
@ Songbirds | 7:00 PM COPELAND — Alternative / Indie Rock with Jenny Dee
10 » Livewire | GET OUT THERE AND HAVE FUN
ETC & KASVOTT CHATT —
Electronic Jam
@ Barlery | 9:00 PM. 21+ DAYTON SPEEDWAY — Outlaw
Country
@ CBD Chattanooga Bud Dispensary on 58 Hwy | 7 PM (doors), 8PM (show). $10. 21+ PUSHIN POSITIVITY — A BENEFIT SHOW FOR ZACHARIE MILLER & FAMILY! Stacked with some of the best Hip-Hop that the City has to offer! Daniel Wayne Doozie, Swamptree Sater,
Courter Music Recording Studio Chattanooga
dy a L r u es O l a Tam m
23.co 108 4 s e l # amad terr s-sat t y d e a n ourl ashla open tu 739 Livewire | VOLUME 1 • ISSUE 9 « 11
Quisee, TRG HITMVN, Lil Robert, Tree, JAYYDAKING, East10, TRAPRIXH SINKKO, KIRIKO RAXKZ, DURAG SAVAGE & POZIE
@ Flat Top Mountain Farm | 6 PM (doors), 7 PM (show). $10, Kids 13 & under free
BLUEGRASS & BLOOMS —
Hannah Danley
# SUNDAY SEPT 13 @ Barrelhouse Ballroom | 1:00 PM. Free SUNDAY FUNDAY — Danimal Pinson joined by Courtney Holder
@ LoFi Coffee Bar (Dalton) | 6 PM. $10. All ages ALL AGES PUNK SHOW —
@ Puckett's | 7:30 - 9:00 PM. Free
Abcination, Cardboard Cutout, My Paper Crane, No Offense
JUSTIN & TAB — Country / Soul
@ Thankful Memorial Episco-
@ Gordon Lee Mansion | 4:00 PM CHICKAMAUGA'S 135 ANNIVERSARY BASH — Tell Me Lies
(Fleetwood Mac tribute), The Allman Brother Laid Back Legacy Tribute, A Murder of Crowes (Black Crowes tribute)
@ The Woodshop | 5 PM (doors) 6 PM (show) OBELISK — A drum and bass
duo from Chattanooga that plays SciCo Fusion and Hard Jazz.
pal Church (St Elmo) | 4 PM $10 - $40 Sliding Scale
BIG SING — Organized by ChattaSings and Singing Resistance CHA. Big SING! Community singing circle. 5:30 Potluck Dinner .6:30pm- The Fruit of Labor Singing Ensemble was born out of the struggle of organizing African American workers in the “Black Belt” of the South. 50% of proceeds from this event support the Chattanooga Area Labor Council"
12 » Livewire | GET OUT THERE AND HAVE FUN
@ Songbirds | 7:00 PM CLAY STREET UNIT — Hailing from Denver, Colorado, Clay Street Unit mixes the acoustic instrumentation of bluegrass and folk with the amplified energy of Americana and country.
@ The Woodshop | 5 PM (doors), 6 PM (show) GOLDPINE — Nashville-based husband/wife Americana duo.
# MONDAY SEPT 14 @ Songbirds | 7:00 PM RON POPE — Americana /
Singer-Songwriter with Zach Berkman
# TUESDAY SEPT 15 @ Cherry Street Tavern | 8:00 PM. $25.32. 21+ MDOU MOCTAR — Nigerien guitarist and songwriter Mdou Moctar brings his hypnotic blend of Tuareg guitar music, psychedelic rock and blistering electric guitar for an intimate solo performance. Landis Zehrung opens.
Mdou Moctar
@ Barlery | 6:00 PM. 21+ TUESDAY CHILL — featuring Mark Jones, Chris Scoggins, Thomas Trouy, or Matt Mayer
Ron Pope
Local literature by Jenn McCornick
Into the Depths: A Q&A With Gin Phillips
LW: How did you research caves and caving? GP: To begin, the actual caverns below Ruby Falls were closed decades ago. No one is allowed there now. I based the caves in my novel on Raccoon Mountain Caverns. Almost from the first few pages, I realized that if a crucial element of the book is what drives someone to want to disappear into the rock and darkness to explore what they haven’t seen and what potentially no one has ever seen, I needed to do it myself to get a feel for what the draw is. I visited Raccoon Mountain Caverns, and also the people at Ruby Falls were very helpful. One of the guides took me to Pryor Springs Cave, a beautiful roadside stream cave on private land in Jasper, Tennessee. A lot of people find the idea of being enclosed underground terrifying. But I do find it interesting there is a subset of people who find it transcendent — it’s not only fascinating, but they find something euphoric about it.
There’s a romance about caves that’s hard to imagine if you haven’t been in one yourself. With her latest novel, Ruby Falls, best-selling author Gin Phillips makes you feel the pull of the earth’s depths even while portraying the dangers of a space where one error could prove fatal. Set on and within Lookout Mountain during the Depression, Ruby Falls is a whodunnit in re-imagined caverns beneath the famous underground waterfall. Narrated primarily by Ada, a widow who develops an obsession with caving, the story also touches on love, loss, and charlatanism versus prophetic gift. Gin Phillips will visit Ruby Falls for a reading and Q&A this September. As a teaser, LiveWire talked with Gin about how she researched the details that went into this compelling mystery. LiveWire: This novel is both historical fiction and mystery. What most drove the story as you created it — the “whodunnit” plotline or the characters’ lives in Southeast Tennessee a hundred years ago? Gin Phillips: I am always most interested in character. The plot is there to crack the characters open and find out what’s interesting inside. Ada, the core character, is part of the mystery that unravels, and she also has her own journey that’s at the root of the book. I started out knowing I wanted to set something at Ruby Falls. I loved the idea of Ada, the question of what would possess you to see a hole leading into nothing but darkness and rock and think, “I wanna go in there.” I liked question of why it might be especially compelling to a woman, and a woman in that time period, to disappear underground. For the women in the story, the underground is freeing in a way that’s different from the men.
LW: Tell us about the spiritualist or supernatural elements of the book. GP: [That era] was a time of limbo where people were starting to understand more about science and microbes and germs, the role of organisms that we can’t see but that can kill us. This leads to an overlap in terms of “There are things around us we can’t see that are directly affecting our lives” and “Are there powers around us affecting us?” It was a time period that was great for business for charlatans, for communing with the dead, for stage magic, possession, and ghosts. LW: You dedicate the book to “all the women throughout the centuries whose lives were one long series of gifts given.” Did you have any particular memories or even individuals in mind? GP: Ada is not only someone interested in caves but someone in the middle of life who finds a new narrative … I have been surrounded my entire life by women who put so much energy and love into every meal cooked and every gift wrapped and every phone call. You live a long life full of gifts given and those gifts evaporate. There is no record left behind. Yet there are no gifts that mean more. LW: What can readers expect at your event at Ruby Falls? GP: I’ll read a bit from the novel, talk about the behind-thescenes story of how the book came to be, and share some of the real-life stories that came together to shape the novel. I’ll absolutely have a conversation with the audience — that’s the most fun part for me! — and I’ll certainly sign books. Mystery at Ruby Falls: An author discussion and book signing with best-selling author Gin Phillips will take place at Ruby Falls on Sept. 10 at 5:30 pm. See Event Calendar listing on p15 for full details.
Livewire | VOLUME 1 • ISSUE 9 « 13
EVENT CALENDAR COMEDY # TUESDAYS @ Gate 11 Distillery | 7:30 - 10:00 PM
JEST IN TIME — Every Tuesday Shellyta Chatman hosts Chattanooga's only Comedy Challenge! Come to compete and show your comedy improv chops! or Simply come for the laughs and fun!
@ JJ's Bohemia | 7 PM $10 21+ OPEN MIC COMEDY — Hosted
by Patrick Cuttle
# WEDNESDAYS @ Cherry Street Tavern | 7:00 PM HAHA HAPPY HOUR - WEDNES-
DAYS — Comedy Open Mic with host Shellyta & friends. Sign-up 6:30
# WEDNESDAY SEPT 2 @ Comedy Catch | 7:00 PM. 18+
— Atlanta comedian and the founder of Atlanta's 1UP Comedy, Pettis is also known for creating offbeat comedy shows in breweries, music venues and other decidedly nontraditional Joe Pettis comedy clubs.
OPEN MIC NIGHT — Chattanooga's Longest Running Open Mic Show. You never know who will show up and go up. Hosted and produced by Courtney Cholovich.
# WEDNESDAY SEPT 9 @ Comedy Catch | 7:00 PM. PG-18
# SEPT. 3-4 @ Comedy Catch | VARIOUS, RATED R
for women who survive on dry shampoo and controlled chaos.
CHRIS PORTER — A Last Comic
Standing alum with specials/content appearing across Comedy Central, Netflix and Showtime.
# SATURDAY SEPT 5 @ Barlery | 7:30 PM STAND UP — Hosted by Marty
Bartow
# SEPTEMBER 5-6 @ Comedy Catch | Various, PG 18 TED BARTON — His comedy has been described as refreshing, lighthearted, relatable, goofy and original.
SALTY MOM COMEDY TOURAMY BROWN & HOLLY BALLANTINE — A filter free night out
# THURSDAY SEPT 10 @ Comedy Catch | 7:00 PM. Adult RYAN NIEMILLER — Known as the self-described "Cripple Threat of Comedy," with standup built around his experiences navigating life with a disability.
# SEPT. 11-12 @ Comedy Catch | 7:00 PM. R
# TUESDAY SEPT 8 @ JJ's Bohemia | 8 PM (doors), 9 PM (show). 21+ JOE PETTIS AND JEREMY MESI
14 » Livewire | GET OUT THERE AND HAVE FUN
Neil Hamburger
@ Plant Bar | 7:30-9 PM. $10 IMPROV VS STANDUP — One part sharp wit stand-up from Chattanooga's favorite comics, and one part unscripted improv based on your suggestions. Two styles, one stage, endless laughs. Improv Chattanooga
JODI WHITE — NEVER THE BRIDESMAID, ALWAYS THE BRIDE, and she's got four dresses to prove it.
# SATURDAY SEPT 12 @ Barlery | 7:30-8:30 PM. Free
# SEPT. 11 @ Memorial Auditorium | 7:00 PM
Back to School Show
RODNEY CARRINGTON —
# SEPT 5-6 @ Prater's Mill Historic Site | 8:00 PM. $15 / $10 students
IMPROV CHATTANOOGA —
Country comedian mixing standup, Jodisongs, White and raunchy humor.
Ted Barton
comic whose awkward pauses, throat-clearing and deliberately awful celebrity jokes have turned bad stand-up into an art form. Longtime touring partner Major Entertainer opens with his own bizarre blend of comedy, stories, synth-pop and performance-art absurdity.
# FRIDAY SEPT 11 @ JJ's Bohemia | 8 PM (doors), 9 PM (show). 21+ NEIL HAMBURGER AND MAJOR ENTERTAINER — Gregg
Turkington's cult anti-comedy character Neil Hamburger is a spectacularly miserable lounge
THEATER
HAMLET — The Conasauga Shakespeare Coalition presents Shakespeare's tragedy of betrayal, revenge, ghosts and grief in a new production directed by Steve Ray and Lane Davies, with Davies serving as artistic director.
# TUESDAY SEPT 11 @ Barking Legs Theater | Various Times CAT ON A HOT TIN ROOF — Seed
Theatre presents Tennessee Williams' Southern drama about a troubled family gathering at a Mississippi plantation, where buried resentments, lies and desire come to the surface.
#
# SEPTEMBER 11 -13 @ Chatt Theatre Center | Various Times COME FROM AWAY — Musical based on the true story of the time when the isolated community of Gander, Newfoundland, played host to the world. What started as an average day in a small town turned into an international sleepover, when 38 planes, carrying thousands of people from around the globe, were diverted to Gander's airstrip on September 11, 2001. (Shows on 11th-13th, 17th-20th, & 24th-27th)
# SEPT 11 -13 @ Ringgold Playhouse | Various Times EURYDICE — A re-imagining of the Orpheus myth through Eurydice's eyes. After dying on her wedding day, she journeys to the underworld, reunites with her father and struggles to remember her lost love.
# SATURDAY SEPT 19 @ The Reading Room Bar | 6 PM (doors), 7 PM (show). $25 entry/ $35 VIP. 21+
THE CURVY CABARET — Road Trip Revue: Part 2 is a night of burlesque, variety, comedy and plenty of roadside attractions you won't find at a rest stop. All profits after expenses benefit A Step Ahead Chattanooga, providing free access to birth control and reproductive health education in our community.
SPOKEN WORD
your own project. All mediums are welcome.
# TUESDAY SEPT 8 @ Plant Bar | 6:30 PM
# THURSDAYS @ Townsend Atelier | 6-9pm . $15.
CAST IRON STORYTELLING — Featuring true stories of practical jokesters, shenanigan instigators, and leg pullers. We're talking times of being up to no good.
LIFE DRAWING - OPEN DRAWING-PAINTING STUDIO — Every
#
SATURDAY SEPT 12
@ Pennington Books | 6:00 PM
SECOND SATURDAYS — SEMIOPEN MIC - Writers are invited to share poetry, fiction and other creative work at this free monthly reading series. Readers must apply in advance with a piece that can be performed in about five minutes; audiences are welcome to drop in, listen and enjoy a drink or browse for books.
Thursday. Our open studio is a time where artists of all levels can practice the time-honored tradition of making art from a live model. Participants may work at their own pace and with whatever medium they wish to work with. Easels, drawing boards, sculpture stands, and tables are provided.
BOOK STUFF
# WEDNESDAY SEPT 2 @ The Reading Room Bar | 5:00 PM. Free. 21+ NATIONAL LETTER-WRITING DAY EVENT — Come celebrate
BEHIND THE WORK — Carrie Pendergrass in latest Artist Talk Series.
things that make life rich, like a delicious drink and a handwritten letter to a friend. September 2nd is National Letter Writing Day. We didn't know it was a holiday either, but now that we do we are SURE gonna celebrate it. We'll have letter writing packets for $3, or feel free to bring your own stationary. Either way, we hope you'll join us. 5-9pm
# SEPTEMBER 9, 16 @ Townsend Atelier | 10:00 AM. $10. All Ages
# THURSDAY SEPT 10 @ Skyline Loft at Ruby Falls | 5:30 PM Free. All Ages
ART +
# SUNDAY SEPT 6 @ Townsend Atelier | 2:00 PM. Free
WEDNESDAY OPEN STUDIO
FALLS — Best-selling author Gin Phillips visits Chattanooga for a moderated book discussion and signing for her murder mystery novel titled Ruby Falls. RSVP as seats are limited. Local booksellers The Book & Cover will have copies available for purchase.
MURDER MYSTERY AT RUBY
Gin Phillips
CALL to ARTISTS @ River Gallery — River Gallery is looking for new-to-us artists for our juried December exhibit. Sumbission deadline Sept 30. www.rivergallery.com for details.
CLASS
# TUESDAY SEPT 1 @ Townsend Atelier | 5:30 PM $280 INTRO TO ACRYLIC PAINTING WITH BRETT WEAVER — This
5-week class is geared toward the beginning painter who wants to
— Are you looking for a creative space to grow, connect, and be inspired? By request, we are now offering a time for you to come and work in our studio with others on a monthly basis. Come and hang out with new folks or bring a friend! Each month, you are invited to our studio to work on your art practice. We will set up a still life from which you can work or you can work on/bring
Livewire | VOLUME 1 • ISSUE 9 « 15
learn acrylic painting. The course will focus on basic fundamentals of painting, encouraging students to establish a weekly routine to help nurture and develop their skills as an artist. This class will also benefit those may be intimidated by oil painting or allergic to solvents and just want to try a new medium.
from life in graphite, we will develop a single still life composition over the course of 2 days.
# SEPTEMBER 13 @ Townsend Atelier | 10:00 AM $375. All Ages LINE- DRAWING WORKSHOP WITH CHRISTINA WEAVER
— This workshop is an isolated look at the properties and applications of contour line in observational drawing. Working
ACTIVE OLDER ADULT PROGRAMS — Dedicated to enrich-
ing the lives of adults aged 55 + by providing free recreational, educational, and social opportunities. REDBANKTN.GOV
DANCE Christina Weaver
Brett Weaver
@ Red Bank Community Center | 10:00 AM . Free.
# CALL FOR TIMES @ Grateful Glassworks | 11 AM $100-ish Ages 14+ INTRO TO GLASSBLOWING 101 — Grateful Glassworks is a
borosilicate glassblowing studio. Founded by artist Blake Rolfe, the studio was created to make the art of flameworking more accessible to beginners, creatives, and the simply curious. GratefulGlassworks.com
# SATURDAY 5 @ Barlery | 9:00 PM GRAY- OPEN TO CLOSE - A JOURNEY THROUGH GENRES
— Multi-Genre DJ
# TUESDAY 8 @ Barlery | 6:00 PM SUPER SECRET EDM POP-UP
# FRIDAY 4 @ The Signal | 9:00 PM. 18+
— EDM / DJ
IT'S A 2000S PARTY — Dance
# SATURDAY 5 @ Audobon Acres | 5-8 PM $20, 5-under Free
Party / 2000s
# WEDNESDAYS @ Barlery | 9:00: PM OPEN DECKS WITH GIGI.B.XOX
— EDM
FESTIVAL BIRDS BREWS AND BBQ — Local craft beer, barbecue from TN Rebel BBQ, nature trails and activities for kids. The family-friendly event supports the Chattanooga Audubon Society; adult tickets include one beer, with children under 5 free
#
ART AROUND TOWN AVA Main Gallery: 2025 Best in Show: Danyelle Woods.
Danyelle Woods received “Best in Show” in the 2025 Annual Juried Exhibition for her work Memory Map I. Danyelle’s work is a combination of known and unknown forms, created with organic materials made by the earth. Landis Education Gallery: 2025 Juror’s Choices: Jeweli Eslinger, Meredith Olinger and Andy Brooks Eslinger, Olinger and Brooks were each selected by the Jury of the 2025 Juried Show as recipients of the “Juror’s Choice Award.” Jeweli Eslinger is an abstract artist working in a street art and graffiti aesthetic. Meredith Olinger is a mixed media artist who works with bold patterns through wallpaper that she designs, create, and prints using both digital and hand-printing along with some collage techniques. Brooks is a sphotographer who creates abstract, filtered images of mundane, household objects printed at a large scale. Opening Night- Friday, September 4th Exhibit Duration- September 4th-October 30th Pedestrian Wine & Cheese storefront is hosting rotating local artists with Artist in Residence series. "The Northshore Nights" by Kristopher Young, through early November.
Hunter Museum of American Art Saya Woolfalk: Empathic Universe uses immersive digital artwork featuring 16 » Livewire | GET OUT THERE AND HAVE FUN
kaleidoscopic video and sound to explore imagined future realities through an all-encompassing, science-fiction storyworld. As only the second venue for the exhibition (before it travels to the Smithsonian), the Hunter is excited to bring Saya Woolfalk: Empathic Universe to the region.
CHA Art Space At their new home near baggage claim. Remind Me deals with sentiment, warm memories, nostalgia, etc.
Intown Gallery "After Dark: Exploring Chattanooga's Urbanscape at Night" by Ahn Bao Tran-Le. A photography series exploring familiar Chattanooga locations transformed after sunset by city lights, shadows and reflections. The exhibit invites viewers to slow down, see familiar places with fresh eyes and become a tourist in their own city. Opening reception Sept. 4, 5–8 PM. Exhibit runs though Sept 30.
Howard Finster's Paradise Gardens Birds of a Feather:
BlackCatTips Atlanta street folk artist (aka Kyle Brooks) presents a solo exhibition inspired by a spring residency at Paradise Garden. During his nearly week-long stay, Brooks found inspiration in the Garden's whimsical setting, abundant bird life, and birdsong. The exhibition's title reflects both the many bird paintings he created afterward and his artistic connection to Howard Finster and his visionary work. 200 North Lewis Street in Summerville, Georgia. Show runs until September 27.
MARKET
# SATURDAY SEPT 5 @ Stove Works | 12:00 PM ODD MARKET — Located in
the heart of creativity, The Odd Market by Seed Theatre is a unique and vibrant marketplace where artistry and community converge. Our market is a celebration of the eclectic, the unusual, and the wonderfully weird, providing a space for artists, makers, and performers to showcase their talents and creations.
# SUNDAY SEPT 6 @ First Horizon Pavilion | 11:00am - 4:00pm FALL FOOD TRUCK RALLY — We're bringing together a lineup of local food trucks serving up crave-worthy eats alongside live music and your favorite Chattanooga Market vendors. Live Music: Stratoblasters
# SUNDAY SEPT 13 @ First Horizon Pavilion | 11:00am - 4:00pm CHATTANOOGA TOP CHEF
— Chefs will shop the Market for ingredients, face a surprise secret ingredient revealed the day of, and cook live as they race the clock to impress a panel of judges.
# SATURDAY SEPT 19 @ Studio Ours | 12:00 PM. Free. 18+ COZY AUTUMN FAIRE — *A
Print Bar & Interactive Market Made for the Coziest Time of Year*. The Cozy Autumn Faire is more than your typical market. Guests can stop by the Print Bar to customize an upcycled denim or canvas jacket or hoodie with Appaplachian inspired blockprint designs. Then explore a curated group of hands-on makers to customize fall goods and apparel. We'll offer free craft stations,
Stove Works "Ode to the Muses" works by Savannah Young
Ode to the Muses is a collection that documents the beauty, sentimentality, and curiosity of everyday life. It is a love letter to all that inspires—fleeting thoughts, passing peculiarities, loved ones from childhood, and the dying houseplant. Here’s to the remarkable in the mundane. Opening: Friday, September 4, 6- 8 PM "Radical Rage" Curated by Charlie Farrell. Participating Artists - Desmond Lewis, Chayse Sampy, estefanía vallejo santiago, James McKissic, Jordan Matthew, Omolará Williams McCallister. Radical Rage explores rage as a powerful catalyst for creativity and change rather than something to suppress. Through sculpture, painting, installation, textiles, and photography, the artists transform anger and frustration into works that challenge perspectives and imagine new possibilities. August 7th - November 14th, 2026 Upstairs and Left Down the Stairs A group show of Artists and Community members from Saint Andrew’s Center in Highland Park. August 7th - September 19th, 2026
River Gallery Father - daughter duo from Michigan Mark
Chatterley & Teagan Chatterley. Mark makes large-scale sculptural ceramic pieces, focusing primarily on the figure with a metaphysical theme. Each piece is unique with the surface ranging from a shiny metallic to a crusty texture reminiscent of rusted metal or weathered stone. Teagan Chatterley- Combining her knowledge of sculpture and designed objects, Chatterley has been investigating the
treats, and live music, as well as having seasonal hot drinks and flash tattoos available. Size & gender inclusive :)
OUTDOORS # WEDNESDAYS @ Fiamma Pizza Co. | 6:00 PM. FREE. All Ages
RIVER RUNNERS — Chattanooga's longest continuous run group (circa 2019) meets at Fiamma every Wednesday at 6pm for a 3 mile run. All ages & paces. Dogs & strollers welcome. Rain or shine! @chattriverrunners
# SATURDAY SEPT 12 @ Harrison Bay car park | Sunset, $10 parking fee STAR PARTY — Barnard Astronomical Society. The public is invited to view the night sky while guided by knowledgeable members of the BAS. Multiple telescope configurations are typ-
ically available to offer a variety of different celestial objects to look at.
SPORT
# SUNDAY SEPT 13 @ Finley Stadium | 3:00 PM. $8+ CHATT FOOTBALL CLUB — vs
Atlanta United 2
GAMES
# THURSDAY SEPT 3 @ Broads Lounge | 7:00 PM Free. 21+ PUZZLE NIGHT — Join in on a 500 piece community puzzle and bring an old puzzle to swap.
# MONDAYS @ Barlery | 6 PM CHESS & BOARD GAMES — Bring your favorite board game or jump into one of ours!
division and overlap of form, function, materiality, and meaning between these two fields. Wave Length Space Solo show by Chase Williamson- A Prism of Blue exploring the interconnection of the Southern Black garden, memorial waters, and Black womanhood. Clearstory "One Square Foot" exhibit of works that are 12x12. Opening September 4. The Landing Social House -Garden Studio Connie Roberts. Her vibrant, texture rich paintings blur the line between folk and abstract. Will be part of First Friday Art Crawl on September 4 from 5-9 PM. 21+ and non members are welcome. (Formerly known as Common House) Townsend Atelier "Where Will You Spend Eternity", a visual re-creation of lower Appalachia through the eyes of Chattanooga artist, Grace Haley. The artist examines the polarizing political climate of Tennessee while also honoring the fringe underlayer through painting, fiber art, and live floral installation. Come explore Grace's alternate reality of the South; one that is queer, raunchy, and free. The public is invited to an opening reception, Friday, September 11 from 5:00-8:00 pm at Townsend Atelier, 301 East 11th Street. The exhibition will be open on weekdays from 10:00 a.m-4:00 pm EST or by appointment through September. Livewire | VOLUME 1 • ISSUE 9 « 17
Velotric Tempo Lightweight $1,499
Velotric GoMad Utility $1,999
SALES RENTALS MAINTENANCE # WEDNESDAYS @ Barlery Backroom | 7 PM DUNGEONS & DRAGONS — A
cooperative, tactical roleplaying game that combines open-ended collaborative storytelling with deep tactical combat, class builds, and probability-based skill checks.
# TUESDAYS @ Barlery backroom | 6 PM MAGIC- THE GATHERING — Think of it like Chess meets Lord of the Rings, but with the collectible customization of sports trading cards.
Tuesday - Saturday: 10 am – 4 pm
TRIVIA # SUNDAYS @ Barlery | 2 PM
1404 McCallie Ave Unit 102 Chattanooga, TN 37404
of the Smart Ass
@ Wanderlinger | 7:30: PM TRIVIA SHOWDOWN — Every
Wednesday
SUNDAY SOCIAL TRIVIA —
Sundays
# TUESDAYS @ Cherry Street Tavern | 7 PM All Ages TAVERN TRIVIA — hosted by Ann Rushing Cambron. Categories listed on @cherrytrivia weekly. Groups of 6 or less
# WEDNESDAYS @ Broads Lounge | 7:00: PM. 21+ MUSIC TRIVIA WITH RICHARD
— Every single Wednesday
@ Clever Alehouse | 7:00: PM TRIVIA WEDNESDAY — Presented by Clever Donkey, home
18 » Livewire | GET OUT THERE AND HAVE FUN
Charity Event # SATURDAY SEPT 5 @Barlery | 4 PM
SIP-ADOPT-REPEAT — Pet Adoption Party and Raffle Draw for Whiskers Fund (Local prize sponsors: Albatross Golf Sim Bar, Play.Wash.Pint, Shady's Corner; Salem Valley Trees, Ravenpaw Creature Care, KBM Designs)
Velotric Summit 1 $1,899
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Livewire | VOLUME 1 • ISSUE 9 « 19
GOOD EATS by Lori Kyle Where We Got Our Flavor On This Week:
Wako Japanese Restaurant After a stressful workday, my work wife and friend Tashanika and I decided there was only one reasonable solution: eat our feelings with all you can eat sushi at Wako. First, Wako is stunning with blue and coral colors, floating butterfly lights, beautiful art installations, and a sleek bar make the space feel special. Then a ROBOT delivered some of our food, which absolutely delighted the sci fi freak in me. We came prepared, too. I wore my Duluth overalls and Tashanika wore cute stretchy pants. We had a whole strategy for getting the most bang for our bucks. Tashanika ordered a gorgeous blue cocktail while I stuck with a coke since I’m sober. Restaurant owners, please give us sober folks some love with good mocktails and non alcoholic beers. We want a fun drink too, and it increases your check average. Everybody wins. Because I absolutely hate wasting food, we ordered thoughtfully: crab salad with crispies and carrots for crunch, shrimp skewers, three sushi rolls, nigiri, and chicken fried rice. The fried rice was comforting but a little basic. The sushi and nigiri? Fantastic. Wako’s all you can eat menu is HUGE, with appetizers, salads, noodles, fried rice, proteins, sushi, and more, but my advice is to skip some of the extras and save that valuable stretchy clothing real estate for the sushi rolls and nigiri. Our human server was kind, attentive, and incredibly patient with all of our questions. Between him, our robot friend, and the fabulous hostess wearing one of the coolest head wraps I’ve ever seen, we felt genuinely welcomed and taken care of. By the end, Tashanika’s stretchy pants were doing their job, and I had unbuttoned the sides of my overalls. Mission accomplished.
20 » Livewire | GET OUT THERE AND HAVE FUN
More importantly, somewhere between sharing food, laughing, and reflecting on our day, the stress started to fade away. That is what I love about sharing a meal with someone you care about. Eat family style. Try something from each other’s plates. Laugh. Talk. Make dining an experience of community and friendship. Food is fun. Food is comfort. Food brings people together. Food is love. We had a lovely evening at Wako and left with full bellies and much lighter spirits. As always, be kind to the people taking care of you, and tip, tip, TIP! The vibe: She Ate That (HOTLINE X) from RuPaul’s Drag Race UK. Because yes, we absolutely did. Wako Japanese Restaurant 2340 Shallowford Village Dr Chattanooga, TN 37421
LIFE IN THE ‘NOOG by Chuck Crowder
Next Week Isn’t This Week Just recently, on a Tuesday, I was asked to do something “next Thursday.” It was an important event, so I wanted to clarify. “Do you mean this Thursday, or next Thursday?” Of course they meant the Thursday nine days from now, but I felt my question was valid just the same. Here’s why. The Thursday happening two days after that Tuesday is technically the “next Thursday.” However, we have a gentleman’s agreement here in the South that there should be a clear, unquestioned differentiation between the Thursday happening this week, “this Thursday,” and the one happening next week, “next Thursday.”
The Silos on Marble Top Unique Short Term Airbnb Rental Convenient to: Lookout Mountain Cloudland Canyon Chickamauga Chattanooga Features: Silo Hot Tub
It makes sense. No one will argue the difference between “this week” and “next week,” and even “this year” and “next year.” We all understand that a week generally starts on a Sunday, or Monday if you’re using the nine-to-five interpretation. And when we refer to anything happening in the seven days that follow, we say “this week” or “this Monday, this Tuesday, etc.” Given that logic, it stands to reason that, if we are currently in “this week,” any plans made for a particular day that isn’t included within the next seven days should be referred to as “next week,” or “next Monday, next Tuesday, etc.” Am I right? Some hoity-toity folk might call it “a week from Monday” or the even more pretentious “Monday week.” But the latter is just as confusing as those smarmy Brits who refer to time as “half three” and “quarter of.” No wonder the founding fathers called bullshit on all that. But I digress. Fact is, we’re very busy people. Most of us see our immediate future as more than just today and tomorrow, or even the current week. We tend to work on two-week time frames most of the time—especially for social plans, business meetings, rent payments, or whatever. That’s where the “this week/next week” logic becomes increasingly important—and peaceful. A mostly-decided-upon, go-to nomenclature helps keep everyone sane and productive. It’s easy. It’s known. And it’s always all right. Like, this week is right in front of you, man. Soak it up. Live out your wildest dreams (that can be realized in just a few days). Next week is way out there in the ether, dude. Don’t worry about it. It’s the future, man. Focus on the here and now—THIS week, baby. That’s the ticket! Regardless, I still find it necessary for some reason to clarify “this Thursday” and “next Thursday” when the date is of a critical nature. That’s because there are still those jackass purists out there who insist on being literal in their interpretation of the little details in life. You know the kind. They must be right all the time, and snicker at your twisted logic (even though it totally makes sense). So, here’s what you do. This Tuesday, invite them over for a nice, home-cooked meal “next Thursday.” Then we’ll see who has the last laugh. Livewire | VOLUME 1 • ISSUE 9 « 21
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Lupi's Pizza
The Woodshop
Artsbuild Building
Mad Knight Brewing
Tremont Tavern
AVA Gallery
Mad Priest Coffee
UTC Campus
Barking Legs
Mean Jeens bar
Velo Coffee
BeCaffeinated Coffee
Mean Mug Fort O
Verre Noire
Boneyard
Mean Mug Northshore
Wayward Pastry
Book and Barrel
Mean Mug W Main
White Duck Taco
Book and Cover
North River Corner Market
Winder Binder books
Broads Lounge
Oddstory Brewing
Yellow Racket Record Store
Burleap Print and Press
Pennington Books
Caffeine Addicts Coffee
Pickle Barrel
Cashew
Real Roots Cafe
Chatt Library street box
Rembrandts coffee
Cherry Street Tavern
Reve coffee
Classic Arcade Pinball
Scenic City Burlesque
Clever Alehouse
Shredder's Lair
Dallos Vinyl Love
Skeletunes
Dowda Records
Sleepyhead Coffee
Easy Tiger Tattoo
Songbirds
Electric Crocodile south
Stone Cup Coffee
Food City Red Bank
Stories and Songs
JJ's Bohemia
Studio Ours lobby
Lo Main
The Reading Room Bar
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