Introducing The Sequatchie Overlook, a new space dedicated to the heart and spirit of Sequatchie Valley.

This newsletter aims to highlight everything from local businesses and community leaders to special events that unite us.

Expect weekly features that showcase the inviting charm and strong sense of community unique to our valley.

Recently, the Sequatchie County Chamber of Commerce launched a new website, improving access to vital resources and information.

In another exciting development, the Sequatchie Valley National Scenic Byway was honored with the 2025 Byway Communications Award for promoting our region's beauty.

Don’t miss the upcoming Valley Fest in May 2026—a celebration of local culture and heritage you won’t want to miss.

Stay tuned for stories that connect, inform, and inspire everyone in Sequatchie Valley.

Tom Seest, Editor

The Whistling Jack of East Tennessee

Jay’s Haunted Appalachia

This week’s featured video dives into one of East Tennessee’s most enduring and mysterious legends: the tale of Whistling Jack. Stories of Whistling Jack have echoed through Appalachia since the early 1900s, with sightings and encounters reported in various corners of the region. Depending on where you grew up, Whistling Jack might be described as a strange beast—a cryptid haunting the woods—or as a more spiritual, otherworldly presence, often connected to tales of warning whistles in the night.

The storyteller’s favorite—and most detailed—version of the legend unfolds right here in the Sequatchie Valley, making this an especially meaningful “bonus story” for local viewers. In this video, you’ll hear how Whistling Jack has become a part of local folklore: scaring travelers, spooking night owls, and adding a distinct flavor of haunted mystery to the valley’s quiet hollows and backroads. Blending history, personal anecdotes, and regional color, this story is a celebration of Appalachian oral tradition and the ghostly tales that continue to keep Sequatchie’s nights full of wonder.

So grab a cup of coffee, settle in, and discover why the legend of Whistling Jack still keeps Appalachia haunted, y’all!

Railfanning Bridgeport, Alabama in the Cold Feat. NS 1231

Tennessee Alabama and Georgia Rail Productions

In this week’s video, we join our storyteller on a chilly Saturday morning—January 31, 2026—along the Chattanooga Subdivision rail line in Bridgeport, Alabama. With high hopes for a true Southern snowfall, the camera captures the quiet anticipation and unique winter landscape that locals know so well. While the Sequatchie Valley and Bridgeport often find themselves just out of reach of the snow bands that blanket nearby cities, the pursuit of that perfect snowy morning is a tradition for many in the region.

Despite predictions and a watchful eye on the forecast, snow proves elusive in Bridgeport on this day. Just 30 miles east in Chattanooga, lucky residents wake up to a beautiful dusting—while the fields, rails, and rooftops of Bridgeport remain stubbornly bare. The video offers not only a slice of winter weather reality for Sequatchie Valley and its neighbors, but also a sense of camaraderie among those who chase the magic of snow each year, even when the results are mixed.

If you’ve ever watched the skies and hoped for flurries that never arrived, you’ll find this video relatable, charming, and a true snapshot of winter in our corner of the South.

Pet Of The Week

Looking for a new best friend? Meet Snuggles, a beautiful adult cat ready to steal your heart and bring a little extra warmth to your home! Snuggles is currently available for adoption in Sequatchie, Tennessee, and lives up to her name—she loves gentle affection, cozy naps, and a good window perch for bird watching.

Snuggles has a sweet, mellow temperament and is the perfect fit for anyone wanting a calm and loving companion. She does well indoors, enjoys quiet company, and would be happiest in a relaxed household where she can get plenty of pets (and maybe the occasional treat or two).

Quick Facts:

• Age: Adult

• Personality: Calm, affectionate, and gentle

• Health: Spayed, up-to-date on vaccinations

If you’re ready to add a little extra love to your life, consider giving Snuggles her forever home!

🔗 See Snuggles and learn more about adopting her on Adopt-a-Pet

Let’s help Snuggles find the cozy home she deserves—share her story, or reach out today!

7‑Day Sequatchie Valley Forecast

Tonight: Mostly clear this evening, then becoming mostly cloudy. Not as cold, with lows around 30°F. Light winds.

Tuesday: Cloudy. Chance of rain showers early in the afternoon, then rain showers likely late. Highs in the mid to upper 40s. Light winds. Chance of rain 90%.

Tuesday Night: Rain showers continue until early morning, then a slight chance of rain showers late. Lows in the mid 30s. Light winds, with gusts up to 20 mph in the evening. Chance of rain 80%.

Wednesday: Mostly cloudy. Highs in the upper 30s to lower 40s. Northwest winds 10 mph or less.

Wednesday Night: Mostly cloudy in the evening, then becoming partly cloudy and colder. Lows around 19°F. North winds 10 mph or less, gusts up to 20 mph.

Thursday: Mostly sunny. Highs in the upper 30s to lower 40s.

Thursday Night: Mostly clear and cold. Lows in the mid 20s.

Friday: Sunny and not as cool. Highs in the lower to mid 50s.

Friday Night: Partly cloudy in the evening, then mostly cloudy. Cold, lows in the upper 20s.

Saturday: Sunny. Highs in the mid to upper 40s.

Saturday Night: Mostly clear in the evening, then partly cloudy. Cold, lows in the upper 20s.

Sunday: Mostly sunny. Highs in the lower to mid 50s.

Sunday Night: Partly cloudy and cold. Lows in the lower 30s.

Monday: Mostly sunny. Highs in the lower to mid 50s.

Keep an umbrella handy for Tuesday, then bundle up for some cold nights midweek. Warmer days return by the weekend!

For the latest local weather updates and advisories, visit:
National Weather Service – Dunlap, TN Forecast

Local Events Roundup

Here are a few local events happening in and around the Sequatchie Valley this weekend you can feature in your Local Events Roundup:

📅 SwimAmerica Lessons — Saturdays (Feb. 7, 14, 21, 28)

If you’re looking for a fun and healthy family activity, SwimAmerica is offering swim lesson sessions each Saturday, starting this weekend. Designed for preschoolers through adults, these sessions are a great way to build water confidence and skills. Whether you’re just learning or brushing up, swimmers of all ages can participate this Saturday in Pikeville/Sequatchie Valley.

🎨 Take Your Kid to the Library Day — Today (Feb. 6)

This morning, the Sequatchie County Public Library will celebrate Take Your Kid to the Library Day at 10:00 AM at 227 Cherry Street, Dunlap, TN. Stop by with the kiddos for stories and fun activities—perfect for families looking to get out and explore local community spaces.

☕ Other Things to Watch This Weekend

While not officially listed on the county calendar yet, a number of live music, social, and community events are typically happening around the Valley on weekend nights—especially at local gathering spots like Sequatchie Valley Brewing Company, community centers, and churches. Checking local Facebook groups and venue pages can turn up concerts, casual get‑togethers, or open mic nights.

Quick Tip: If you know of a local event happening this weekend that we missed, hit reply and let us know—your contribution could make the next issue!

Craving some true Southern comfort food in Dunlap? Look no further than Fixnz 4 The Soul, a beloved local spot where every meal feels like a home-cooked celebration. This restaurant is all about hearty, soulful classics—think golden fried chicken, juicy burgers, tangy wings, savory pork chops, and all the best fixins’ you can imagine.

Regulars rave about their generous portions and mouthwatering daily specials, from creamy mac and cheese to collard greens and fried okra. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic plate lunch, a loaded baked potato, or a slice of homemade cake, Fixnz 4 The Soul is dedicated to bringing comfort and flavor to every table.

Family-owned and welcoming, it’s a gathering place where locals swap stories over sweet tea and visitors get a real taste of Sequatchie Valley hospitality. With a casual, friendly vibe and prices that won’t break the bank, it’s easy to see why so many call it their favorite spot for lunch or supper.

📍 Fixnz 4 The Soul
Check out the full menu and hours at:
https://dunlap.directory/directories/fixnz-4-the-soul/

Stop by this week for a plate of something special—your soul (and your stomach) will thank you!

Real Estate & Market Pulse

🏡 Entry-Level Homes (Under $275K)

1. $165,000 – 2 beds / 1 bath (840 sq ft)
   📍 Budget-friendly, cozy starter home or investment property.
   View Listing

2. $259,000 – 3 beds / 1 bath (1,300 sq ft)
   📍 Comfortable traditional home in a quiet residential area.
   View Listing

3. $279,900 – 3 beds / 2 baths (1,714 sq ft)
   📍 Single-family home with good layout and living space.
   View Listing

🏘️ Mid-Market Homes ($275K–$500K)

4. $299,900 – 3 beds / 2 baths (1,400 sq ft)
   📍 Move-in ready in a pleasant neighborhood.
   View Listing

5. $335,000 – 3 beds / 2 baths (1,520 sq ft)
   📍 Scenic mountain views and solid construction.
   View Listing

6. $426,000 – 3 beds / 2 baths (3,048 sq ft)
   📍 Large layout with flexible space and updates.
   View Listing

7. $475,000 – 3 beds / 2 baths (1,720 sq ft)
   📍 Price reduced; great value in updated home.
   View Listing

🏔️ Premium & Luxury ($500K+)

8. $594,000 – 4 beds / 3 baths (2,476 sq ft)
   📍 New construction with upscale finishes.
   View Listing

9. $899,000 – 3 beds / 3 baths (3,033 sq ft)
   📍 Expansive, high-end home ideal for entertaining.
   View Listing

🧺 Local Marketplace Highlights

1. Heavy‑duty Fold & Carry Dog Crate
   — Steel wire, collapsible with mat, around ~24″ x 18″ x 20″ — good for medium‑sized dogs or transport.

2. Local Garage/Yard Sale Listings
   — New postings on Facebook Marketplace show ongoing garage sale listings in the Sequatchie area with a variety of household items and bargains.

3. Christmas / Holiday Vendor Sales
   — Some local vendors (like at Spruce and Willow Home) are running holiday sales with 20 %–40 % off gift items, décor, and crafts — great for seasonal deals.

4. Land & Property Wants / Interests
   — Community members are actively posting what they’re looking for — e.g., raw land with or without a home, often in the Sequatchie Valley area — could be good to connect buyers and sellers.

🛠️ How to Find More Local Deals

Since many posts in these local groups don’t have public URLs unless you join the group, the best way to browse actual item listings (furniture, tools, vehicles, pets, etc.) is to visit or join groups such as:

• Sequatchie Valley Buy Sell Trade (Facebook) — community marketplace for local items.

• Sequatchie Valley, Tennessee Classifieds — local classified posts including discounts and sales.

• Sequatchie County Buy, Sell & Trade — alternative regional buy/sell/trade listings.

🤝 Make the Most of Local Networks

Simple Ways to Boost Your Visibility, Community Impact & Referrals

In small towns like Dunlap and throughout Sequatchie Valley, business isn’t just about what you sell — it’s about who knows you, trusts you, and recommends you. That’s why community networking is one of the most powerful (and affordable!) tools you can use.

Here are a few practical ways locals are strengthening ties and growing their business presence through community connection:

💬 1. Join Local Networking Groups Online

Groups like Sequatchie County Business Networking and Sequatchie Valley Entrepreneurs on Facebook are great places to:

• Share what you offer or services you need

• Give and receive referrals

• Celebrate wins with others who get it

🪧 Tip: Post a quick weekly update — “Here’s how I helped a neighbor this week!” — to stay top-of-mind.

🎯 2. Attend Local Events — Even If You're Not Selling

Farmers markets, school fundraisers, or chamber mixers? Show up. Wear your brand. Talk to people. Networking doesn’t have to be formal — it’s about visibility and trust. Bonus points if you bring flyers or a QR code!

🔁 3. Create a Referral Circle

Team up with 2–3 other local businesses who complement what you do (think: a landscaper, a painter, and a handyman). Recommend each other, share updates, and even offer bundled discounts. Word of mouth spreads fast when it’s personal.

✍️ 4. Leave a Trail of Value

People remember those who give first. Offer helpful tips in local Facebook groups, comment supportively on other posts, or sponsor a small giveaway. When your name is known for generosity, your business grows with trust.

Local Tip to Try This Week:
💡 Post a short intro in a group like Sequatchie Valley Entrepreneurs:

• Who you are

• What you do

• One way you can help someone this week

It’s a small act — but it could lead to your next big opportunity.

If you’re one of the many Sequatchie Valley residents eating dairy-free, there’s fresh-baked good news for your grocery list — Sequatchie Valley Homestead is now offering dairy-free sourdough bread!

Whether you're lactose intolerant, following a dairy-free lifestyle, or simply prefer wholesome ingredients, this sourdough is a delicious option made with care right here in the valley.

🥖 Why You’ll Love It:

• Naturally fermented for easier digestion

• Zero dairy ingredients — just real, simple stuff

• Made fresh and sold locally by a community-minded homestead

📍 You can learn more or get in touch with them directly here:
🔗 Sequatchie Valley Homestead – Local Directory

So next time you’re hunting for a healthier bread alternative that fits your lifestyle — skip the supermarket shelf and go local.

Your One-Stop Shop for Shipping, Printing & Business Services

Whether you're mailing a package, notarizing a document, or printing business cards, PostalAnnex of Dunlap makes life easier with a full range of convenient services — all under one roof.

Located right in the heart of town, this locally owned PostalAnnex offers:

• 📬 Shipping Services – UPS, FedEx, USPS — compare rates & ship smarter

• 🖨️ Printing & Copying – Flyers, signs, business cards & more

• 🖋️ Notary Public – Certified notary on-site for quick, official help

• 📦 Mailbox Rentals – Secure package and mail receiving for home or business

• 🎁 Packing Supplies & Gifts – Cards, small gifts, and shipping-ready supplies

Whether you're a small business owner, a busy parent, or just someone who likes quick service with a smile, PostalAnnex is your go-to local partner.

📍 Learn more here:
🔗 PostalAnnex – Dunlap Directory Listing

🕒 Open six days a week with friendly staff ready to help.