🌱 Glass St. Robbery & Killing + 'Alabama Story' In Chattanooga

Hey, neighbors! It's me again, Kayla Harrison, your temporary host of the Chattanooga Daily.

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First, today's weather:

Mostly sunny. High: 49 Low: 32.

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Here are the top 3 stories today in Chattanooga:

1. Derrick Ruffin, 20, was shot and killed on Glass Street Saturday night. Chattanooga police say the shooter acted in self-defense during a robbery and will not be charged. The investigation, however, remains open. (The Chattanoogan)
2. Chattanooga Theatre Centre will present 'Alabama Story' from Jan. 21 to Feb. 6. The play is about racial tensions and censorship. Audience members must be vaccinated or show a negative COVID test within the last 72 hours upon arrival. (WTVC)
3. Chattanooga gas prices have fallen back a bit, even while oil prices are rising. The cheapest gas in Chattanooga is $2.78 per gallon, while the lowest in the state is $2.70 per gallon. Oil prices continue to rise due to unrest in Libya and Kazakhstan. (Chattanooga Pulse)

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Today in Chattanooga:

• Strategic Planning Meeting - City of Chattanooga (2:00 PM)
• ALL: Public Safety Committee - City of Chattanooga (4:00 PM)
• Orchard Knob Neighborhood Watch - City of Chattanooga (6:00 PM)
• Cloverdale Neighborhood Association - City of Chattanooga (7:00 PM)
• Jersey Boys (Touring) - City of Chattanooga (7:30 PM)

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From my notebook:

• As the number of homicides in Chattanooga remained largely unchanged between 2019 and 2021, the number of non-fatal shootings increased more than 57% from 80 in 2019 to 126 in 2021. When asked if the pandemic had a role to play in the spike, the public information officer for the Chattanooga Police Department said it would be difficult to say it was the only reason. (Instagram)
• The city of Chattanooga honored the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. at yesterday's events. These included a Donation Drive at City Hall, Neighborhood Service Projects, MLK Day Youth Leadership Symposium, and Beloved Community Gathering at Miller Park. (Facebook)
• Downtown Chattanooga welcomes the Peach Cobbler Factory Chattanooga as they open their doors to the public! Chattanooga is delighted to have this sweet spot open and a part of the community. Make sure to stop by and grab a warm cobbler, creamy banana pudding, or any of the delicious treats they have to offer. (Facebook)

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Alrighty, you're all caught up for today. I'll be in your inbox tomorrow morning with your next update!

— Kayla Harrison

About me: Kayla Harrison is a Writing Arts professor, as well as a freelance writer for content creation agency Lightning Media Partners. In her free time, you can find her listening to podcasts, writing poetry, and visiting local coffee shops.