Daily editionThursday, October 1st, 2026
Good morning, East Ridge.
The 5AM East Ridge Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 1st of October.
Business
Toys ‘R’ Us will reopen this Friday, Oct. 2 at Hamilton Place Mall near American Eagle + Zumiez and Lululemon, offering toys like LEGO, Barbie, Hot Wheels, NERF and Paw Patrol.
Families in Chattanooga will enjoy a nostalgic shopping experience as the holiday season nears.
Local 3 NewsRead more
Culture
Brandi Donan merges art and mixology in her self-published book Art of Spirits — featuring 50 oil paintings paired with cocktail recipes and stories from local bars — which will debut at Townsend Atelier on Oct. 2 with an artist talk and tasting.
Chattanooga Times Free PressRead more
Beloved actor Dennis Haskins, best known as (Mr. Belding) on Saved by the Bell, passed away Sep. 29.
He left a lasting legacy at UTC and in the Scenic City.
Local 3 NewsRead more
Education
Local public school teachers can submit project proposals for $20,000 in funding from the SONIC Foundation today after two local SONIC restaurants ranked among the Top 50 in the DR PEPPER SONIC GAMES; teachers should apply online at DonorsChoose.org/teachers.
Local 3 NewsRead more
Hamilton County Schools opened its Career Exploration Center in downtown Chattanooga on Sep. 29 — featuring interactive exhibits, equipment, technology and career simulations that help students explore future careers.
Local 3 NewsRead more
Family Resource Agency's Head Start program is facing a 27% rise in maintenance costs + teacher pay challenges as it serves 428 children in several counties.
Lawmakers will soon review funding measures to support early education services in the region.
Chattanooga Times Free PressRead more
Government
Residents in Hamilton County can now apply for seasonal burn permits today for a burn season until April 30; fees are $75 in urban areas (Chattanooga, Collegedale, East Ridge, Red Bank, Ridgeside) and $15 in other parts of Hamilton County, with applications available online, in person, or by mail.
NewsChannel 9Read more
Sports
UTC's offensive line got a boost after first-year transfer Jacob Ziegler shifted from guard to tackle during the Sept. 5 game at Finley Stadium—born in Sandusky, Ohio, he quickly adapted to Chattanooga's style.
Chattanooga Times Free PressRead more