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        <title>Real Estate Blog</title>
        <link>https://www.thetorgersonteam.com/blog/2017-03/</link>
        <description>Check out our blog posts about the Chattanooga area, events, activities, and real estate concerning the Chattanooga and North Georgia area!</description>
<item>
    <guid>https://www.thetorgersonteam.com/blog/friday-five-chattanoogas-best-events-331-407/</guid>
    <link>https://www.thetorgersonteam.com/blog/friday-five-chattanoogas-best-events-331-407/</link>
        <title>Friday Five: Chattanooga's Best Events 3/31-4/07</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 



Check out our list of upcoming Chattanooga area events happening locally from Friday, March 31 to Friday, April 7.


March 31 - April 8


Closed Door Entertainment's West Side Story


When: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Where: March 31 - April 1 and April 7-8 at 7:30 p.m.; April 1 and April 8 at 2 p.m.Cost: $28


From the first notes to the final breath, West Side Story is one of the most memorable musicals and greatest love stories of all time. Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet is transported to 1950's New York City as two young, idealistic lovers find themselves caught between warring street gangs, the &quot;American&quot; Jets and the Puerto Rican Sharks. Their struggle to survive in a world of hate, violence and prejudice is one of the most innovative, heart-wrenching and relevant musical dramas of our time. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit cdoorent.com/box-office.



Sunday, April 2


JAM Fest 2017: Jazz on the Grass


When: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.Where: Coolidge Park, 200 River Street Cost: Free


April is National Jazz Appreciation Month (JAM), and you can celebrate it with a free community jazz concert featuring Sweet Georgia Sound, The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga Jazz Band, The Inman Street Band and Blue Groove, the jazz band ensemble of the Air National Guard Band of the South. This event will be held in Coolidge Park rain or shine, so bring blankets, picnic baskets, family and friends for a fantastic Sunday afternoon of great music.



Thursday, April 6


Throwback Thursday and Vision + Verse


When: 4-8 p.m. Where: Hunter Museum of American Art, 10 Bluff View Cost: Free - $5


Enjoy the permanent collection free of charge this evening, and the temporary exhibit Our America: The Latino Presence in American Art is open for the special throwback price of $5 (free to members and children under 17 with a paying adult). Also at 6, in honor of national poetry month, all guests are invited to join for Vision + Verse: Rhyme n Chatt. This program is offered in partnership with Rhyme n Chatt artists who will offer new poetic voices to several works in the permanent collection. Guests will also be invited to share their own voices in the artistic dialogue. 



Thursday, April 6


Yoga &amp; Whiskey


When: 6-8:30 p.m.Where: Chattanooga Whiskey Experimental Distillery, 1439 Market St.Cost: $25


Yoga and Whiskey is on the road to Chattanooga In this spring class, guests will revitalize their spirits and drink them, too. The event will start with an invigorating yoga class at Chattanooga Whiskey Experimental Distillery, home of Chattanooga Whiskey, led by Lisa McBryde of Hot Yoga Plus. Afterward, yogis can tour the distillery, learn about the history and processes of making whiskey, and end with a tasting of fine Chattanooga Whiskeys. Registration begins at 6 p.m. and class begins at 6:30. The tour + tasting will take place from 7:30-8:30. For more information, visit xorbia.com/events.



Every Friday 


Cambridge Square Night Market


When: 6-9 p.m.Where: Cambridge Square, 9453 Bradmore Lane, Ooltewah, TN 37363 Cost: Free


Returning for its second season, the Cambridge Square Night Market provides a family-friendly destination during the warm summer nights. A variety of live music performs in the square, and there are plenty of local restaurants to dine before strolling the artisan market in search of handmade arts and craft wares.
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Fri, 31 Mar 2017 11:13:17 -0400</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.thetorgersonteam.com/blog/guide-to-celebrating-easter-in-chattanooga/</guid>
    <link>https://www.thetorgersonteam.com/blog/guide-to-celebrating-easter-in-chattanooga/</link>
        <title>Guide To Celebrating Easter In Chattanooga</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 



Chattanooga Easter Event Round-Up


It’s Easter time again Break out the egg dying kits, colorful baskets and pastel dresses. If you are looking for a way to celebrate the holiday, we have you covered with our list of the best Easter events (for both kids and adults) happening this year in Chattanooga. 


April 8, 9, 14 &amp; 15


Tennessee Valley Railroad Bunny Train


When: The train runs at 10:40 a.m., 12:05 p.m., 1:15 p.m., 2:25 p.m.Where: Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum, 4119 Cromwell RdCost: $22 for everyone age 2 &amp; up.


Hop Aboard for a new adventure: The Bunny Train Trains will depart from Grand Junction and travel toward East Chattanooga where passengers will disembark for special activities. Storytelling, temporary tattoos, coloring pages, goody bags … and a chance to meet our big bunny Bring a camera and take your child’s photo with the Easter Bunny.



April 8 &amp; 15


Easter Bunny Breakfast Cruise on the Southern Belle Riverboat


When: 9:30 a.m.Where: 201 Riverfront Pkwy, Chattanooga, TN 37402Cost: Ages 13 and up: $30.90; Ages 3-12: $18.90; Ages 2 and under: Free


This breakfast cruise includes a visit from the Easter bunny, a magic show, coloring sheets, pilot house tours and a one-time-through buffet-style breakfast featuring scrambled eggs, sausage links, biscuits and gravy, pancakes, fruit, orange juice and coffee.



April 9


Eggstravaganza


When: 3-5 p.m.Where: Ooltewah United Methodist Church, 6131 Relocation Way, Ooltewah, TN 37363Cost: Free


Enjoy free food, a petting zoo, games, pictures with the Easter Bunny and huge inflatables, plus a gigantic Easter Egg Hunt with 10,000 eggs. Not to mention...candy.



April 14-15


Chattanooga Zoo’s Hug-A-Bunny Day


When: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.Where: Chattanooga Zoo, 301 N Holtzclaw AveCost: Adults $9.95, Children $6.95, Ages 2 and under free; Admission is free for Chattanooga Zoo members


Hug-a-Bunny day is a spring celebration for all ages Guests will have the chance to get their photo made with the Easter Bunny, enjoy springtime games and crafts, gather Easter eggs, watch as the zoo animals enjoy their egg hunt enrichment, encounter the zoo’s real bunnies and more.



April 15


The Gray Dove’s Easter Egg Hunt


When: 1-4 p.m.Where: The Gray Dove, 6408 Snow Hill Rd., OoltewahCost: $5 per car


This Easter event features an egg hunt with 10,000 eggs, prizes, games and petting and feeding various animals. Local vendors will be participating with concessions, boutique clothing, jewelry and other items available for purchase. All filled eggs are assembled at a Sheltered Workshop in St. Louis, helping create meaningful work for people with disabilities.



April 16


Easter Brunch at Back Inn Cafe


When: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.Where: Back Inn Cafe, 412 East Second StreetCost: Entrees are between $15-30


Enjoy a world class Easter brunch paired with the historic and cozy atmosphere of Back Inn Cafe. Brunch and lunch selections are available along with a full array of cocktails and beverages. Reservations are recommended for this special event. To make those, call 423-265-5033 or by email eventcoordinator@bluffview.com.



April 16


Easter at Coolidge


When: 9 a.m. Where: Coolidge ParkCost: Free


Free face-painting and puppet shows for the kids; free coffee and donuts for mom and dad; praise and worship music in the park; and of course, an egg hunt of over 100,000 Easter eggs The egg hunt begins at 9 a.m., but be sure to arrive early to set up your lawn chairs in the park and take part in the other fun activities. Live music will begin around 9:30 a.m. on the main stage.



April 16


Easter Luncheon Cruise on the Southern Belle Riverboat


When: 1-3 p.m.Where: 201 Riverfront Pkwy, Chattanooga, TN 37402Cost: Ages 13 and up: $36.90; Ages 3-12: $19.90; Ages 2 and under: Free


This two-hour cruise includes live music, pilot house tours, a visit from the Easter bunny and a one-time-through buffet-style lunch featuring chicken Wisconsin, scrambled eggs, ham, sausage gravy, buttermilk biscuits, sausage links, hash brown casserole, macaroni and cheese, orange juice, sweet tea and coffee.
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Thu, 30 Mar 2017 17:27:00 -0400</pubDate>
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<item>
    <guid>https://www.thetorgersonteam.com/blog/5-mistakes-to-avoid-when-choosing-a-builder/</guid>
    <link>https://www.thetorgersonteam.com/blog/5-mistakes-to-avoid-when-choosing-a-builder/</link>
        <title>5 Mistakes To Avoid When Choosing A Builder</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 



Building your dream home or renovating your current home is such an exciting decision Now the next important decision on your list is to pick a builder. There are so many horror stories of bad craftsmanship and blown-out budgets, and we want to make sure that doesn't happen to you Check out our list of the most common mistakes people make when choosing a builder, so you can avoid costly and stressful problems in the future. 


1. Assuming the cheapest quote is the best option 


You’ve heard the saying, “You get what you pay for,” right? If a quote seems too good to be true, it probably is. A low quote does not a good builder make, and that isn’t the type of risk you want to take for a place you plan for you and your family to spend the next several years. If the builder is cutting corners to get the quote down, it can cause you many more costly problems in the future. 


2. Not researching a builder’s past work


So you find a quote you like. That’s a great first step, but that’s not all you should do before you choose a builder. Research their name and their business name to see if there are any reviews available online. You should also ask the builder for a list of their recent builds/renos and go look at them yourself. If you want to go the extra mile, consider door knocking or asking the builder for current clients’ contact information to talk with someone who has worked with or is now working with that builder. The people who have gone through it before will know best if the process was on budget, on time and a quality effort.


3. Choosing the wrong kind of builder


Are you renovating? Are you adding an extension to your home? Are you building from the ground up? These are all very different projects and require similar, but different skill sets. Choosing just any builder for your remodel isn’t the way to go. The best new home builder in town could be the worst choice for renovating your 1920s fixer upper, because those are kind of apples and oranges. Know what your needs are beforehand, and be sure to choose someone with experience that is specific to those needs. 


4. Falling in love with the spec home


Of course you love the spec home … it’s a spec home. The builder is pulling out all the stops with the most upgraded options to show you exactly what they can do. Keep in mind that all of the upgrades may not be within your price range. If you’re still convinced you need the home exactly as displayed, ask the builder for a fully itemized cost sheet so you can decide if that's an option for you as-is or if you need to work it down to a more feasible budget. 


5. Not pressing for comprehensive quotes


Sometimes people choose a builder based on quotes that have a lot of items missing. Regardless of how well-recommended a builder may come, that doesn’t mean you don’t need to request a completely comprehensive quote. Not only should you ask what is included in the quote, but you should ask what is NOT included. That way you can see if there are any hidden costs you might be racking up along the way. 
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Thu, 30 Mar 2017 11:26:00 -0400</pubDate>
</item>
<item>
    <guid>https://www.thetorgersonteam.com/blog/friday-five-chattanoogas-best-events-324-331/</guid>
    <link>https://www.thetorgersonteam.com/blog/friday-five-chattanoogas-best-events-324-331/</link>
        <title>Friday Five: Chattanooga's Best Events 3/24-3/31</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 



Check out our list of upcoming Chattanooga area events happening locally from Friday, March 24 to Friday, March 31.


Friday, March 24


Paint and Sip with the Georgia Winery


When: 6-9 p.m.Where: Georgia Winery, 6469 Battlefield PkwyCost: $35


Whether you can paint a realistic masterpiece that would impress da Vinci or have an abstract style like Picasso, you can tap into your inner artist at the Paint &amp; Sip Party. Hosted by the Georgia Winery and Artsy U, this event is all about getting your creative juices flowing while sampling the fruits of the vine. The $35 admission fee gets you all of the necessary art supplies and a glass of wine. By the end of the event, you'll have a painting of your very own to remember the day by. Limited number of tickets. Please purchase in advance. For more information, visit georgiawines.com.



March 24-April 16


Rock City's Fairytale Nights


When: 6-8 p.m.Where: Rock City Gardens, 1400 Patten Rd., Lookout Mountain, GA 30750 Price: $11.95 - $22.95


Adventure awaits you at Rock City's newest spring event, Fairytale Nights which takes guests on a spectacular journey to a faraway kingdom where magic is around every turn. Help Little Red Riding Hood avoid the Big Bad Wolf; follow Jack as he ventures off the beanstalk into the giant's lair; enjoy the radiant gardens with Cinderella; learn to sword fight with a knight Bring the kiddos for a chance to make magical memories at Rock City's Fairytale Nights. 



Saturday, March 25


Dalton Comic Book &amp; Popculture Convention


When: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Where: Northwest Georgia Trade and Convention Center, 2211 Dug Gap Battle Road, Dalton, GA 30720Cost: $10 for adults; children 14 and under get in free


The second annual Dalton Comic &amp; Pop Culture Convention features dealers from across the southeast who specialize in comic books toys and all things geeky from vintage to brand new items. Guests at the event will include Sonya Thompson, Larry Mainland and Savana Jade Wehunt from the Walking Dead and other movies and tv shows. The Zombie Truck will also be available for photos as well as costumed zombies. 



Saturday, March 25


Spring Wildflower Hikes at Sequatchie Valley Institute 


When: 1-5 p.m. Where: Sequatchie Valley Institute, 1233 Cartwright Loop, Whitwell, TN 37397Cost: Donation-based event; $8-20 suggested donation


Join the group—and the ragwort, buckeye, bloodroot, trout lily, trilliums, redbuds and dogwoods—in the coves and hollows of the beautiful Sequatchie Valley. The hikes will be accompanied by naturalists, ethnobotanists and foresters familiar with the ecology of our bioregion. Arrive at the parking area no later than 12:30 for a shuttle or hike to the SVI center, one mile from the parking area. A moderate hike will meander for 2 hours below the bluffs to discover the awakening native flora. A more rugged hike will continue on Hick's Creek and up the canyon, exploring the hidden treasures of Appalachia. Come prepared with long pants, hat, sturdy shoes, rainwear, water, snacks, camera, id books, and journals. Kids of all ages are welcome. After the hike, enjoy a glass of wine and cheese at the Gallery. To register or for more information, call 423-949-5922/4598 or email education@svionline.org. 



March 31 - April 8


Closed Door Entertainment's West Side Story


When: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Where: March 31 - April 1 and April 7-8 at 7:30 p.m.; April 1 and April 8 at 2 p.m.Cost: $28


From the first notes to the final breath, West Side Story is one of the most memorable musicals and greatest love stories of all time. Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet is transported to 1950's New York City as two young, idealistic lovers find themselves caught between warring street gangs, the &quot;American&quot; Jets and the Puerto Rican Sharks. Their struggle to survive in a world of hate, violence and prejudice is one of the most innovative, heart-wrenching and relevant musical dramas of our time. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit cdoorent.com/box-office.
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Fri, 24 Mar 2017 09:33:00 -0400</pubDate>
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<item>
    <guid>https://www.thetorgersonteam.com/blog/put-on-your-dancing-shoes-for-these-chattanooga-adult-dance-classes/</guid>
    <link>https://www.thetorgersonteam.com/blog/put-on-your-dancing-shoes-for-these-chattanooga-adult-dance-classes/</link>
        <title>Put on your dancing shoes for these Chattanooga adult dance classes</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 



Dance classes aren’t just for kids. Not only is dance good for the soul, it’s good for your health Any kind of low-impact dance helps to improve cardiovascular health, increase stamina, strengthen bones and muscles and stave off illnesses. Dance is also proven to relieve stress … so what are you waiting for? Chattanooga offers plenty of opportunities to take dance classes no matter what style you’re interested in trying. 


Ballet


If you’re looking for more grace, poise and flexibility, ballet is the way to go At Chattanooga Dance Theatre, located at 5151 Austin Rd. in Hixson, there is an adult beginner ballet class perfect for those without experience who want to improve body awareness, coordination, strength and flexibility. In this class, dancers will learn a full barre, center adagio, single pirouettes, petite allegro and grand allegro in a fun, supportive and friendly environment. Cost: $14 per drop-in class


Belly Dance


The graceful hip drops, rolls, and pivots of this traditional Middle Eastern dance form utilize muscle groups in the abdomen, pelvis, trunk, spine, and neck for a full body workout. With seemingly small movements, you can get a serious workout—not to mention the fact that you can have fun and build confidence while doing it. Zanzibar Studio, located at 600 Georgia Ave, offers Intro to Belly Dance classes every Tuesday from 6-7 p.m. and Thursday from 7:15-8:15 p.m. The class introduces students to the basics of belly dance with an emphasis on proper body alignment, identifying simple Middle Eastern rhythms and developing movement awareness. Each class includes a yoga inspired warm up, and a clear breakdown of dance technique. Cost: $14 per drop-in class


Ballroom Dancing


Foxtrot, Waltz, Tango, Viennese Waltz, Quickstep. No, we’re not speaking in code. These are just some of the types of ballroom dancing you can learn locally at USA Dance, which meets at Brainerd United Methodist Church in the Lundy Hall Gymnasium located at 4315 Brainerd Rd. Chattanooga USA Dance is a social ballroom dance club that hosts social dance events on the second Friday of every month, and these classes are open to every age group and skill level. The next dance will be a Beginning Salsa Lesson on April 14. Although ballroom dancing requires a partner, you don’t have to have one to come to class. Event admission includes a one-hour beginning level group lesson, general dancing from 8:30-10:30 p.m. and light refreshments. Cost: USA Dance members, students (under 21) and first-time guests $5; non-members $10


Hip Hop/Hip Hop Fit


Escape the stress of daily life and try something new at Weave Dance Company’s Hip Hop classes on Wednesdays at 7 p.m. The fast pace of hip-hop style dancing is great for improving flexibility, muscle tone, increasing cardio for a healthier heart and helping improve memory while learning choreography. But if the average class doesn’t seem like enough for you, go with the fitness challenge of Hip Hop Fit classes on Saturdays at 11:50 a.m. Each class option is taught at an intro/beginner level, so it’s perfect for everyone. Plus, Weave Dance Company, located at 4413 Brainerd Rd., is currently offering a deal on LocalFlavor, so you can get more dance for your dollar. Cost: $15 for two classes available here 


Swing Dance


Bringing back the traditional vintage forms of swing dancing from the 1920s and 1930s, River City Dance Club is beating the beginning-of-the-week drag with their Monday Night Lindy Hop. The club, which meets at ClearSpring Yoga at 105 N. Market St., offers options for everyone beginning with the early intermediate dance lesson at 7 p.m., the beginner lesson at 7:45 p.m. or you can skip the lessons entirely for open dancing at 8:30 p.m. No worries about not having a partner. During the lesson, dancers rotate partners so you can dance with everyone. Just be sure to avoid high heels that might damage the studio floor. Cost: $7 or $5 for students (including the lesson)
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Thu, 23 Mar 2017 13:45:00 -0400</pubDate>
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<item>
    <guid>https://www.thetorgersonteam.com/blog/friday-five-chattanoogas-best-events-317-324/</guid>
    <link>https://www.thetorgersonteam.com/blog/friday-five-chattanoogas-best-events-317-324/</link>
        <title>Friday Five: Chattanooga's Best Events 3/17- 3/24</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 



Check out our list of upcoming Chattanooga area events happening locally from Friday, March 17 to Friday, March 24.


March 17-19


Steel Magnolias


When: Specific times available on websiteWhere: Christ United Methodist Church, 8645 East Brainerd Road Cost: $10


East Brainerd Community Theater proudly presents its production of Steel Magnolias by Robert Harling. A much loved play, Steel Magnolias reveals the friendship and love of six strong, honest, wisecracking Southern women as they move through life's challenges in a small community in Louisiana. Tickets are available online at ebctchatt.com or christchurchchatt.org. Tickets are also available 9 to 4:30 p.m. at Christ UMC March 13-17 or at the door (if available).  All cash donations collected at intermission will benefit The Next Door, a program that assists women who are currently incarcerated to gain job and life skills to assist them as they reenter into society.



March 18-19  


Rock City's Shamrock City


When: 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.Where: Rock City Gardens, 1400 Patten Rd., Lookout Mountain, GA 30750 Cost: $12.95 - $22.95


Get your green on for Rock City's 10th Irish celebration and festival featuring music, food and other entertainment. Enjoy listening to several bands scheduled to perform in the pavilion-favorites returning as well as new live performers. Taste some Irish food, specialty beer and Rock City's famous fudge with a &quot;green&quot; twist. This event was selected as a Top 20 Event for 2015 by Southeast Tourism Society For more information, visit seerockcity.com/shamrockcity.



Sunday, March 19


Yoga and Beyond:  March Session Yin Yoga and Spring Wellness


When: 10:30 a.m. to 1:15 p.m.Where: Crabtree Farms, 1000 E 30th St.Cost: $40


The first part of this workshop Heather Monson-James will lead a sweet yoga class in the Yin+Yasa style. Yin+Yasa is great for those new to yoga as well as those who have many years of experience. This practice encourages detoxification of the body while promoting flexibility and strength. After a serene session of yoga, Hillary Libby will discuss seasonal wellness techniques utilizing food, herbs and self-care practices from the ancient healing system of Ayurveda. There will be an emphasis on how to move into the spring season feeling balanced and vibrant.  Herbal tea samples will be provided. 



Tuesday, March 21


Ladies of Lee Night of Worship


When: 7:30-9 p.m.Where: Lee University, 1020 N Ocoee St Cost: Free


Ladies of Lee will present their spring concert which will be a time of worship through choral music. The program will feature sacred music from a variety of traditions, including hymns, gospel songs, spirituals and contemporary worship. Ladies of Lee, composed of 46 women, travels throughout the southeastern United States under the direction of Dr. Jonathan Rodgers and features a repertoire reflecting a diverse range of styles. For more information, please contact Lee's School of Music at 423-614-8240.



Friday, March 24


Paint and Sip with the Georgia Winery


When: 6-9 p.m.Where: Georgia Winery, 6469 Battlefield PkwyCost: $35


Whether you can paint a realistic masterpiece that would impress da Vinci or have an abstract style like Picasso, you can tap into your inner artist at the Paint &amp; Sip Party. Hosted by the Georgia Winery and Artsy U, this event is all about getting your creative juices flowing while sampling the fruits of the vine. The $35 admission fee gets you all of the necessary art supplies and a glass of wine. By the end of the event, you'll have a painting of your very own to remember the day by. Limited number of tickets. Please purchase in advance. For more information, visit georgiawines.com/Visit
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Fri, 17 Mar 2017 19:00:00 -0400</pubDate>
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<item>
    <guid>https://www.thetorgersonteam.com/blog/how-to-move-with-pets/</guid>
    <link>https://www.thetorgersonteam.com/blog/how-to-move-with-pets/</link>
        <title>How to Move with Pets </title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 



Moving can be incredibly stressful for people, so imagine how hard it is on pets Although you have every idea of what’s going on during your moving process, your pet doesn’t. Unexpected activity in their home, the anxiety of car travel and getting used to a new environment can be overwhelming for them. Although it’s different for every pet, here is a list of tips that should help ease the process for your furry family members:


Make A Care Kit


Prepare an easily-accessible 'overnight kit' that has enough dog food, kitty litter, toys and grooming tools to sustain your pet and keep them comfortable during the first few days of unpacking. 


Packing Up 


Cats, in particular, aren’t big fans of change. You can help your cats (and skittish dogs) adjust to the moving process by bringing in moving boxes early, and by keeping your furry friends in a familiar room you plan to pack up last. 


Check With Your Vet


If you’re moving far enough to have to change vets, go ahead and notify your current one so they can send you copies of your pet’s records to take with you. They may also have a recommendation for you on a vet in your new location. 


Stuff First, Pets Second


If possible, try to unpack as much as you can before the pets get there. Even if just one room is set up, that gives them a stable place to be that isn’t in constant flux. Make sure they have a toy, a blanket or their pet bed for that first day, so they have something that smells safe and familiar.


Keep Collars On and Up to Date


Prior to moving day, make sure your pets are fitted with collars and ID tags with your name and current cell phone number. Microchipping is also recommended and will serve as a backup if your pet loses its collar.


Moving Day


The best plan for moving day is to leave Fido with a friend … but if that’s not an option, keep your pets in a quiet room with the door shut. Even the most easy-going pets can try to make a quick getaway if their environment is strange for them and they get scared.


Road Trip Tips


Most pets don’t spend a lot of time in cars … and when they do, it’s not always for good reasons in their minds. If their only experience inside a crate is a trip to the vet, it’s important to prepare them for the big trip:


      - Gradually acclimate pets to their crate by leaving food or treats inside with an open door. You can eventually have them eat with the door shut once they’re used to that. 


      - Try a short trip in the car with your pet that ends in some sort of reward for them. Maybe there’s playtime or treats soon after to help them develop a positive association with the crate. 
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Tue, 14 Mar 2017 16:23:00 -0400</pubDate>
</item>
<item>
    <guid>https://www.thetorgersonteam.com/blog/friday-five-chattanoogas-best-events-310-317/</guid>
    <link>https://www.thetorgersonteam.com/blog/friday-five-chattanoogas-best-events-310-317/</link>
        <title>Friday Five: Chattanooga's Best Events 3/10-3/17</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 



Check out our list of upcoming Chattanooga area events happening locally from Friday, March 10 to Friday, March 17.


Saturday, March 11


A Girl and A Gun - Meet and Greet


When: 1-5 p.m. Where: Shooter’s Supply and Indoor Range, 4824 Hixson Pike Free


The A Girl and A Gun Women's Shooting League is launching the Chattanooga chapter. The league, founded seven years ago, has grown to include one hundred chapters across the country. Current membership is over 5,000 members and a social media following of more than 30,000 fans. A Girl and A Gun is a ladies organization established by women shooters for women shooters for pistol, rifle and shotgun sports. The mission of the league is to educate and encourage women about the opportunities of recreational and sport shooting, and to promote women's interest and participation in the competitive shooting sports. The chapter will have regularly scheduled events every month for ladies to socialize and practice their shooting skills. Events will include Girl's Night Out, Breakfast &amp; Bullets, and Trigger Time. The event welcomes girls of all ages and experience to come together to shoot and get to know other ladies who enjoy shooting.



March 11-12 and 18-19


Rock City's Shamrock City


When: 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.Where: Rock City Gardens, 1400 Patten Rd., Lookout Mountain, GA 30750Cost: $12.95 - $22.95


Get your green on for Rock City's 10th Irish celebration and festival featuring music, food and other entertainment. Enjoy listening to several bands scheduled to perform in the pavilion-favorites returning as well as new live performers. Taste some Irish food, specialty beer and Rock City's famous fudge with a &quot;green&quot; twist. This event was selected as a Top 20 Event for 2015 by Southeast Tourism Society For more information, visit www.seerockcity.com/shamrockcity.



Wednesday, March 15


Black Coffee Discussion Series


When: 8-9 a.m.Where: Jazzanooga Arts SPACE, 431 E MLK Blvd.Cost: Free


The best conversations happen over a cup of coffee. Black Coffee is a new dialogue series created to grow connections between Chattanooga's communities of Color and local arts and culture efforts. Each month, join the group for a morning of free coffee, a presentation and some conversation led by artists of color and representatives from Chattanooga's arts organizations. This monthly gathering will be moderated by Jazzanooga's co-founder, James McKissic. This month's guest speaker is Nadini Murdandi, Chief Curator at Hunter Museum of American Art. For more information, visit facebook.com/events.



Wednesday, March 15


Earth, Wind and Fire


When: 7-11:45 p.m.Where: Tivoli Theatre, 709 Broad StreetCost: $39 - $125


Earth, Wind &amp; Fire, America's seventh top-selling musical group of all-time was born in Chicago in 1969. With a signature sound beyond categories and a groove as deep as the soul of the planet, the band's legendary journey has set the standard for music of all genres. One of the most important, innovative, and commercially invincible contemporary forces of the 20th century, Earth, Wind &amp; Fire has released a total of 23 albums. They have recorded eight 1 R&amp;B singles and eight Double Platinum Top 10 Pop Albums. EWF has earned more than 50 Gold and Platinum albums and sold over 90 million albums worldwide, earning them a solid spot on the list of all-time best selling music artists. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit tivolichattanooga.com/events.



March 16-19


Steel Magnolias


When: Specific times available on websiteWhere: Christ United Methodist Church, 8645 East Brainerd Road Cost: $10


East Brainerd Community Theater proudly presents its production of Steel Magnolias by Robert Harling. A much loved play, Steel Magnolias reveals the friendship and love of six strong, honest, wisecracking Southern women as they move through life's challenges in a small community in Louisiana. Tickets are available online here. Tickets are also available 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at Christ UMC March 13-17 or at the door (if available).  All cash donations collected at intermission will benefit The Next Door, a program that assists women who are currently incarcerated to gain job and life skills to assist them as they reenter into society.
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    <pubDate>Fri, 10 Mar 2017 17:48:00 -0500</pubDate>
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        <title>Best Places to Watch March Madness in Chattanooga</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 



Sometimes seats at the local pub are even better than bleachers when it comes to March Madness. 


With Selection Sunday just around the corner on March 12 and this year’s NCAA tournament beginning Tuesday, March 14, it’s about time to pick your spot to watch the sport. If you need a little help, we’ve got you covered with some of our favorite restaurants, sports bars and hole-in-the-wall pubs in Chattanooga to catch the game. 


Mellow Mushroom


205 Broad St. or 2318 Lifestyle Way


Whether you visit the downtown or East Brainerd location, this pizza joint is always a great tournament watching spot. If you happen to be downtown, you can enjoy Mellow’s large patio, selection of over 120 beers from around the world (40 of which are on tap), 16 high-definition screens, and a 160&quot; HD drop down screen in the newly-remodeled Boom Room, which is perfect for large parties if you call in advance. Plus…free WIFI You can’t beat that. 



 


Mike’s Hole in the Wall


538 Cherokee Blvd.


This North Shore bar offers plenty of TVs, dartboards and a sweet menu full of specials all week long. Don’t miss $1 tacos and $1 off draft craft beer on Tuesdays and 50-cent wing night on Thursdays. 



Taco Mac


423 Market St.


Opened in 1998, this Chattanooga sports bar staple has been serving longnecks and drafts for nearly 20 years. Check them out for their 20 HD television screens, 60 beers on draft, 200 beers in the bottle … and of course, the wings.



Bud’s Sports Bar


5751 Brainerd Road


This is East Brainerd’s main stage for sports watching and drinks. You can’t beat the specials, either, with Monday night’s $5.99 steak dinner and $1.50 beer and Wing Night on Tuesdays with buy 10 get 10 free from 6 p.m. to midnight. If you are into South of the Border fare, come for Fiesta Wednesdays from 7-10 p.m. featuring $5 Margaritas and $10 margarita pitchers, 50-cent tacos, $2 nachos, $2 chips &amp; salsa and $5 Mexican burger platter served with tortilla chips. Most Fridays and Saturdays, Bud’s also offers live music with no cover. 



Universal Joint


532 Lookout St.


This gas station-turned-restaurant is a great locale for game-watching with its many TVs and stocked bar. If you want to bring the fam, they can also sit out on the spacious patio to avoid (most of) the game night hubub. Universal Joint is a great spot for dinner with its yummy buffalo or lemon pepper wings or the Firecracker Sliders, a mini-burger starter dish with jalapeños, scallions, cheddar and spicy aioli.



The Big Chill &amp; Grill


103 Cherokee Boulevard Suite 1A


Everybody knows about The Big Chill’s boozy frozen cocktail options, but did you know it’s also a hotspot for sports watching? The new location boasts 16 TVs and a full menu with a greater variety of options than the typical sports bar. It’s also smoke-free and features a great happy hour including $4.50 daiquiris and $1.50 select drafts everyday between 4-8 p.m.



Buffalo Wild Wings


Downtown - 120 Market Street; Hixson - 5744 Hwy. 153; Fort Oglethorpe - 37 Parkway Dr.120


No true sports bar list would be complete without B-Dubs … we know. This is marketed as the be all, end all basketball HQ, and it’s going to be hella busy doing its job. If you don’t mind fighting the crowds, you can enjoy wing Tuesdays with 1/2 price wings or boneless Thursdays with specials on boneless wings all day long. 
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    <pubDate>Tue, 07 Mar 2017 15:15:00 -0500</pubDate>
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        <title>Friday Five: Chattanooga's Best Events 3/03-3/10</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 



Check out our list of upcoming Chattanooga area events happening locally from Friday, March 3 to Friday, March 10.


March 3-4


Spring 2017 Chattanooga Boutique Warehouse Sale


When: March 3 and 4 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.Where: Stratton Hall, 3146 Broad StreetCost: Free


The Spring 2017 Chattanooga Boutique Warehouse Sale, benefiting the Connor Pullen Foundation, brings an array of Chattanooga area boutiques and artisans together offering up to 90 percent off designer brands. Be prepared to save on women's apparel, shoes and accessories, men's clothing, plus sizes, gifts, children's clothing, handmade jewelry, candles and home decor.



Saturday, March 4


Read Across Chattanooga


When: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.Where: Hamilton Place, 2100 Hamilton Place Blvd. Cost: Free


Come celebrate Dr. Suess' birthday with free cake, arts and crafts, and books for the first 500 children under 5.There may even be a surprise visit from the Cat in the Hat himself



Tuesday, March 7


Chatt About Science: Would you swim in the Tennessee River? Or play in your creek?


When: 7-8 p.m.Where: Stone Cup Coffee House, 208 Frazier AveCost: Free 


At March's science cafe, Executive Director of the Caribbean Student Environmental Alliance Mary Beth Sutton, will discuss water quality in creeks around the area and the macro invertebrates that might inhabit them. The group will also examine ways you can help make our creeks and rivers clean.



Wednesday, March 8


Rent


When: 7-11 p.m.Where: Tivoli Theatre, 709 Broad StreetCost: $37-77


In 1996, an original rock musical by a little-known composer opened on Broadway… and forever changed the landscape of American theatre. Two decades later, Jonathan Larson's RENT continues to speak loudly and defiantly to audiences across generations and all over the world. And now, this Pulitzer Prize and Tony Award-winning masterpiece returns to the stage in a vibrant 20th anniversary touring production. A re-imagining of Puccini's La Boheme, &quot;RENT&quot; follows an unforgettable year in the lives of seven artists struggling to follow their dreams without selling out. With its inspiring message of joy and hope in the face of fear, this timeless celebration of friendship and creativity reminds us to measure our lives with the only thing that truly mattes—love. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit tivolichattanooga.com/broadway



Thursday, March 9


Casting the Canvas 2: An Art-Inspired Performance by Ensemble Theare of Chattanooga


When: 6-7 p.m.Where: Hunter Museum of American Art, 10 Bluff ViewCost: $5 for Hunter members, $15 for non-members


After a lauded initial year, the Ensemble Theatre Company is returning for another Casting the Canvas performance. Using new works and themes, visual arts and performance will intermingle in this unique experience. Local actors from ETC will present brief original plays written specifically for this project and inspired by the Hunter collection. A portion of proceeds will benefit the theatre. To learn more about the theatre and its mission, see ensembletheatreofchattanooga.com. 
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    <pubDate>Fri, 03 Mar 2017 14:16:00 -0500</pubDate>
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