Here's a treat:

Ten of the 18 new raised beds at The Beth have already been claimed by residents across the street at the Villages, says Damon Bartos. (See our Sunday story.)

And another treat:

Back in 2025, the legendary Josh Carter and I sat down for an interview with the equally legendary Ray Bassett and his Scenic Roots show at WUTC.

Josh talked theology and faith, hospitality and Michelin stars, English majors and the old Southside Restaurant.

The owner-founder of Imbibe is equal parts generous, kind and a veteran of this city's restaurant industry, from bussing tables to owning St. John's.

Here's the interview for you to enjoy.

Thinking of Imbibe, thinking of all our partners.

A reminder:

Our partners are your partners.

They support us so we can support the larger region through our storytelling. When making decisions on where to dine, or drink, or visit, please remember our friends here.

They're your friends, too.

Thinking of more friends, like Chef Claire Pettit.

This weekend, Claire's hosting a most beautiful event, combining the culinary with the artistic.

Chef's Table brings a seven-course menu from Chef Pettit paired with a sort of art-house artist's gallery.

Local artist Lauren Delamater will show her work while eating, drinking and talking alongside guests. Questions, stories, interpretations — her art becomes the focal point alongside Chef Pettit's great menu.

Tickets can be found here.

Thinking of more friends, like the Southeast Tennessee Young Farmers coalition.

This weekend, it's the annual meeting at Wheeler's Orchard.

Next month, there's a roundtable at Crabtree Farms on urban ag.

Interested in joining? Want to sign up for the Saturday meeting? Visit here.

Thinking of my dear friend Troy Rogers, the city's public safety coordinator.

The Chattanooga Police Department posted some powerful news recently: gun violence trends have dropped significantly, according to city officials.

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Lots of people and reasons why, but we want to acknowledge Troy and the Chainbreakers team of violence interrupters doing unseen and immeasurably good and life-saving work.

Some of you remember our story on Taco Tuesday and the Chainbreakers.

Thinking of more friends, and you, and us ...  

Got an email recently that stopped me in my tracks. One reader, Jana, reflected on her relationship with Food as a Verb in 2025.

We'll end with her note. From the bottom of our hearts, thanks, Jana, and to all of you.

Here's Jana:

These stories carried me through 2025. They were my "alternative news" when I quit all news.

They reminded me - truly re-minded me - that there is a world out there full of love and worth believing in, the goodness and triumph of real human beings.

Here and there, a story prompted me to visit a restaurant or make a donation. Through these stories I got to participate a little bit in contributing to my community.

I am so grateful.

There are no words.

Thank you to all of you.

Story ideas, questions, feedback? Interested in partnering with us? Email: david@foodasaverb.com

This story is 100% human generated; no AI chatbot was used in the creation of this content.

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