Chattamatters

Amid East Brainerd’s park desert, the city is moving to protect about 14 acres for a future green space and restore part of Mackey Branch creek.

Chattamatters went up to Nashville’s Capitol Hill — or at least next to it — to see the state lawmaking process firsthand. We also spoke with several Tennesseans about why they were there. The answer every time? To make their presence known, and to make a difference.

Protected by state law but poorly documented, Chattanooga’s oldest cemeteries have survived the city’s sprawl. These ghost graveyards, many overgrown and eroded, lie quietly beside homes, strip malls, and garbage collection centers. One could be right in your backyard.