Chattanooga’s warmth and spirit are undeniable
The International Festivals & Events Association Boards were pleased to visit Chattanooga recently. During our stay, the warm and welcoming hospitality of your community was obvious: From airport drivers to hotel and restaurant staff; tourism officials to police and media representatives; festival sponsors to political leaders; and, of course, the Riverbend volunteers. At every level, the pride and awareness that your community shares — for where they have come from and where they are headed — forms an obvious bond you have successfully created by working together toward common visions.
Riverbend, like celebrations embraced by other cities, is an ideal vehicle to bond your community together and to celebrate and share with others what is important to you. As the global organization that represents the power of festivals/events worldwide, we recognize the quality of life, economic impact, tourism, brand and image that Riverbend drives and signifies for Chattanooga. These would not be possible without the support and partnerships that exist throughout your city.
Our world needs more examples of what communities can build when they work together, and we wish Chattanooga much success in the years ahead. Thank you for making us feel so welcome.
STEVEN WOOD SCHMADER, International Festivals & Events Association
Fracking is important part of overall plan
As a geoscientist, I’d like to respond to the June 4, op-ed piece about fracking: