Scenic Roots

"Scenic Roots" offers conversations that matter in the heart of Chattanooga and the Tennessee Valley.From the mountains to the river, our conversations are rooted deep within every corner of our community - reflecting who we are, who we were and who we can become.We engage with the news that affects our community, behind and beyond the headlines. We build bridges that span from creators and innovators to storytellers and the outdoors. We focus on our challenges as many communities in one - as we celebrate what inspires us. We resonate with countless voices - in words and spaces, sounds and songs.We are "Scenic Roots."Ray Bassett hosts and produces "Scenic Roots" at WUTC.

BOOM: A New Marketplace For Small Business On Glass St.

WUTC | By Ray Bassett

Published May 28, 2025 at 10:26 PM EDT

The entrance to BOOM on Glass St. in East Chattanooga.

On Glass Street in East Chattanooga, a new chapter for community small business began this spring.

BOOM - or Black and Brown Owned and Operated Marketplace - opened its doors where Allgood’s Used Books and Coffee served customers until it closed last fall.

Shateria Smith is director of creative arts programming at RISE Chattanooga, the arts and culture nonprofit in East Chattanooga that bought the storefront.

Christopher Shaw is the owner of Holy Man Grooming and Final Flash Productions - he’s one of the small business vendors at BOOM.

Inside BOOM before its opening this spring.

Inside BOOM after its opening this spring.

Shateria Smith and Christopher Shaw at WUTC.