Category Archives: Local News

Residents react to proposed bill that would shield carpet manufacturers from lawsuits

DALTON, Ga. (WDEF)- A controversial bill regarding forever chemicals was the subject of a tense hearing in Atlanta. House Bill 211, proposed by several area representatives including Kasey Carpenter of Dalton, would shield carpet companies from forever chemical lawsuits. Carpet companies like Shaw and Mohawk, among many others have been the targets of lawsuits related…… MORE

Driving Our Economy Forward: The Hummus Bowl

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) —  Traditional hummus is made from ground chickpeas and sesame seeds. Add a little olive oil, lemon, and garlic, and you the recipe for a delicious source of protein. A local family doing its best to make hummus a staple in St. Elmo.  We head to the Hummus Bowl in tonight’s Driving…… MORE

Court appoints Aubrey Preston as conservator in Life Care Centers case

  CLEVELAND, Tenn. (WDEF) —  The legal battle for control over Life Care Centers of America has been resolved. On the morning of March 4, 2025, a Cleveland judge agreed to name Aubrey Preston as the conservator for his father, Forrest Preston. The father founded the senior aging facility chain that has now gone nationwide.…… MORE

North River Elementary to enter design phase

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF)- The development of a new Hixson elementary school continues to move forward. The Hamilton County Commission approved a contract with Franklin Associates to design the future North River Elementary School. It would replace DuPont, Rivermont, and Alpine Crest Elementary Schools on the Dupont site. The project has faced some controversy from parents…… MORE

Mayor Kelly wins reelection in landslide, celebrates passage of amendment

Mayor Kelly wins reelection in landslide, celebrates passage of amendment

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF)- Chattanooga Mayor Tim Kelly has won reelection to a second term as Chattanooga mayor. It was a pretty short night for Mayor Kelly and his supporters as it was apparent very early on he would win his second term as Mayor. Mayor Kelly and supporters celebrating his reelection. The mayor told his…… MORE

Spirit Airlines’ announces 3 new non-stop flights to CHA

Spirit Airlines’ announces 3 new non-stop flights to CHA

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) —  Spirit Airlines has announced its first service at the Chattanooga Airport (CHA) with the addition of three new non-stop flights. The non-stop flights will be to the following destinations: Fort Lauderdale, FL (FLL) Newark, NJ (EWR) Orlando, FL (MCO) According to CHA, this expansion will utilize Spirits modern Airbus A320 aircraft…… MORE

Salvation Army Hosts Annual Mardi Bras Event

CHATTANOOGA, TN (WDEF)- The Salvation Army hosted their annual Mardi Bras event earlier today. Hosted by the Salvation Army’s Women’s Auxiliary, the event was all about providing essential undergarments to women in need, while also offering an afternoon of food, fun, and fellowship. “Realize that sometimes dignity comes in different ways, whether it’s a meal,…… MORE

A Fun-Filled Pancake Day at St. Nicholas: A Tradition Celebrated by All

CHATTANOOGA, TN (WDEF) —  Students, parents, and staff came together to celebrate Pancake Day, or Shrove Tuesday, at St. Nicholas School, marking a fun-filled day of festivities, community spirit, and educational moments. This annual event, which has become a beloved tradition, not only allows everyone to enjoy a day of fun but also connects them…… MORE

Hamilton County Coalition offers free resource fair for Day of Hope

Hannah Dalton from the Hamilton County Coalition joins News 12’s Amelia Greer to talk about their upcoming Day of Hope. CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – The Hamilton County Coalition gets ready to provide community support ahead of Day of Hope on March 10. The Hamilton County Coalition is considered a “wrap around” organizations which focuses on…… MORE