Forbes.com has finally come the realization that I've been screaming talking about for a long time. Chattanooga is a great value for the money. Because of everything from real estate taxes, to commuting times, to housing values, Chattanooga is a lovely little town to hang your hat whether you're retired or gainfully employed. Forbes has named Chattanooga as 8th "Best Bang for your Buck" out of the top 100 metro areas in the US.
So why am I mad at Forbes? I was digging it until I got to this travesty of reportage:
"Cities from McAllen, Texas (No. 7), to Greenville, S.C (No. 20), and Chattanooga, Tenn. (No. 8), that have faced a host of economic problems, are now seeing a silver lining: Housing speculation stayed in check in these areas because there was little to draw buyers in the first place."
Little to draw buyers in the first place. Little to draw buyers in the first place?!? Are you kidding me? It's all well and good to say that about McAllen, TX (sorry McAllen, you may be a great place; I neither know nor love you) but Chattanooga is a gem of a town. Sure, we may have been the dirtiest city in America at one time but we've come a long way since 1969, baby. I mean, come on, this is the Scenic City for the love of Pete. We've got some of the best outdoor activities in the country.
Here's what Outside Magazine has to say:
"A very scenic, very happening, and very easy place to live, with unlimited options for climbing, caving, biking, hiking, and paddling."
Yeah, that's more like it. Outside Magazine, you get invited back.
We've even been recognized for our public art programs. This is what American Style Magazine says:
Chattanooga’s commitment to the arts has helped lead a citywide revitalization, drawing artists and art lovers to take up residence there. Programs such as “Art in Public Places” put power in the public’s hands, allowing them to choose which outdoor sculptures to install around town. “Chattanooga has art everywhere, from the side of a walking path to downtown sculptures,” says reader K. Schwartz.
Still not convinced? Check out this slideshow of great local images. So yes, Forbes, I will see your "little to draw buyers" and raise you "scenic," "happening," & "citywide revitalization."
Ready to fold?
I thought so.
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