☕ Front Porch Morning: A Sunny Saturday, a Christmas Market in Dunlap, a Veterans Parade in Jasper and a Quick Fire-Pit Check

Or: Shop Local at the Fairgrounds, Wave a Flag at 1, Check the Patio and the Generator, and Bundle Up for a 29-Degree Night

By Thomas Seest, Dunlap.Today · Saturday, November 14, 2026

Good morning, neighbor. Today is Saturday, Nov. 14. The National Weather Service says sunny, high near 50°F in Dunlap, with a light north wind. It cools to about 45 by late afternoon, so take a jacket if you’ll be out after lunch.

Tonight is clear and cold, about 29°F. Sunday warms up to about 55. It’s a pleasant, dry weekend with a few nice things to do and nothing to worry about.

⏱️ Your 30-second morning recap

• Yesterday: Two cozy-season recalls came out: a small Sharper Image tabletop fire pit and a Cummins Onan backup generator. The CDC’s flu report says flu is early but its severity is still rated “low.” And Medicare open enrollment now has about three weeks left, ending Monday, Dec. 7.
• Today: Sunny, high near 50°F. The Fredonia Christmas Market is at the Dunlap Fairgrounds Building, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Jasper’s Veterans Day Parade starts at 1 p.m.
• Tonight: Clear, low around 29°F. Soup, grilled cheese and bluegrass at Wheeler’s Orchard, 4:30 to 7:30 p.m.

📝 Jot This Down: today’s 3 things to remember

1. Fredonia Christmas Market: TODAY, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (Central), Dunlap Fairgrounds Building, 103 Heard St. Handmade gifts, baked goods, honey and more. Today is the last day.
2. Jasper Veterans Day Parade: TODAY at 1 p.m. (Central). An honor ceremony follows at Jasper City Park, about 2 p.m.
3. Cold night: about 29°F tonight. Bring pets and potted plants inside. Keep space heaters 3 feet from anything that can burn.

Tomorrow’s heads-up: Sunday, Nov. 15, Chattanooga’s Market Street Bridge is closed to cars and walkers from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Eastern (that’s 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. our time). Headed to church downtown? Use the Veterans Bridge or the Olgiati Bridge. Sunday is sunny, about 55°F.

📰 In Case You Missed It Yesterday (Friday, Nov. 13)

🔥 Two Recalls for Cozy-Season Gear: A Tabletop Fire Pit and a Backup Generator

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission posted two recalls that fit this time of year. We reported them in Friday’s Healthy Valley.

• Sharper Image Tabletop Fire Pits and Tabletop Infinity Fire Pits. These are small fire pits for a patio table, with a “77” logo on the front. They were sold at stores like Walmart, Lowe’s, Home Depot, Target and Walgreens, from January 2023 to June 2026, for about $30 to $50. Fuel can escape or a flame can flash back.
• Cummins Onan P5000iDF portable generator. It’s dark gray and runs on gas or propane. Pressure can build in the gas tank, so fuel can spray out.

What it means for you: Most folks won’t own either one. It takes two minutes to check. If you have the fire pit, stop using it and call 855-215-5032 for a full refund. If you have the generator, stop using it and call 800-286-6467 for a free repair. And with any generator, the old rule stands: outside only, far from windows and doors.

👉 Read more (CPSC: Sharper Image fire pit recall) · CPSC: Cummins generator recall

🤒 Flu Update: Early, but Still Rated “Low” in Severity

Here’s an update on a story we’ve been following. The CDC’s weekly flu report came out Friday morning, Nov. 13. Flu is still climbing earlier than usual. But the CDC rates this season’s severity as “low” for every age group so far, including folks 65 and older. Most of the flu viruses tested so far closely match this year’s flu shot.

What it means for you: There’s no need to fret. If fever and aches hit and you’re 65 or older, call your doctor the first day. The CDC says flu medicine works best when it’s started early. No flu shot yet? Most pharmacies have them. The Sequatchie County Health Department is at (423) 949-3619 (open weekdays).

👉 Read more (CDC FluView weekly report)

🩺 Medicare Open Enrollment: About Three Weeks Left

A MarketWatch column published Friday, Nov. 13, followed free Medicare counselors as they helped people pick plans. The writer said the easy appointments went to folks who came ready, with their Medicare.gov login and an up-to-date list of their medicines. In one case, a couple found a drug plan whose monthly premium went down for 2027.

What it means for you: Open enrollment ends Monday, Dec. 7. Plans can change prices and drug lists every year, so a quick check can save money. The help is free. Call TN SHIP at 1-877-801-0044 (they don’t sell anything), or 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227). Before you call, write down your medicines and doses, and find your Medicare card.

👉 Read more (MarketWatch: What really happens during Medicare open enrollment) · TN SHIP free Medicare help

🛡️ How to Protect Yourself: The “Card Declined, Try Another” Trick

Friday’s Scam Watch shared a new warning from the Better Business Bureau. Some fake shopping websites show a “payment declined” message on purpose, so you’ll type in a second card. Then they have both.

What it means for you: If a website says your card didn’t go through, don’t enter another card. Close the page. Call the number on the back of the card you used, and ask if a charge came through. When in doubt, shop in person, like at today’s Christmas market, or at a store you already know.

👉 Read more (BBB: How to spot a fake website)

🏥 For the Grandkids: Paid Health-Job Training at Erlanger Bledsoe

Erlanger Bledsoe Hospital in Pikeville and the Erlanger Sequatchie Valley Emergency Department in Dunlap are starting a paid apprenticeship program. People train for a health care job while earning a paycheck. It’s open to residents of Sequatchie, Bledsoe, Marion, Van Buren, Grundy, Hamilton, Rhea and Cumberland counties. Interest forms are due Wednesday, Nov. 18.

What it means for you: Know a grandchild, neighbor or church member looking for steady work? Pass this along this weekend. More trained folks close to home means more help when we need it. Questions: Erlanger’s main line, 423-778-7000.

👉 Read more (Erlanger Bledsoe: Apprenticeship Program)

📅 Today in the Valley (Saturday, Nov. 14)

🎄 Fredonia Christmas Market: Last Day, 10 to 4 in Dunlap

The Fredonia Christmas Market is open today, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (Central), at the Dunlap Fairgrounds Building, 103 Heard St. Vendors bring stained glass, baskets, pottery, quilts, woodwork, baked goods, candy, candles, honey, preserves, jewelry, soaps and wreaths. King Louie’s Nuts will be there, with T-shirt sales helping Bella’s Fight.

What it means for you: A warm, indoor place to get a head start on Christmas gifts and see neighbors. Go mid-morning when it’s sunny, and bring a tote bag. Some vendors may take cash only, so tuck a few bills in your pocket.

👉 Read more (Dunlap.Today: Fredonia Christmas Market)

🇺🇸 Jasper Honors Veterans: Parade at 1, Ceremony After

Marion County’s Veterans Day Parade rolls through Jasper at 1 p.m. (Central). Right after, a Veterans Day Honor Ceremony is set for Jasper City Park, about 2 to 3 p.m.

What it means for you: A sunny afternoon to say thank you. Bring a folding chair, a flag and a jacket, since it cools off after lunch. Veterans, wear your cap so folks can thank you. Questions: Marion County Courthouse, 423-942-2552 (closed weekends). Parade route not posted, so call ahead to confirm or arrive early.

👉 Read more (Marion County: Jasper Veterans Day Parade) · Marion County: Honor Ceremony

🛍️ Also in Jasper This Morning: Two Markets

Marion County’s calendar lists the Market on the Square at the Marion County Courthouse, 1 Courthouse Square, and Mistletoe Mania at Jasper Elementary School, 495 Warrior Drive. Both run 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. (Central).

What it means for you: If you’re headed to the parade, come early and browse first. Vendor details weren’t posted, so call ahead to confirm.

👉 Read more (Marion County: Market on the Square) · Marion County: Mistletoe Mania

🎻 Brooms, Bluegrass and Soup at Wheeler’s Orchard

Wheeler’s Orchard & Vineyard on Wheeler Road in Dunlap has a Maker’s Market and a broom-making workshop from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. A handmade broom is $40. Then Spoons & Tunes serves soup and grilled cheese with live bluegrass from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. (Central). Dinner is $10, and children 10 and under eat free.

What it means for you: A cozy supper with music, close to home. Bring the grandkids. It’s going down to 29 tonight, so wear a warm coat and drive slowly on the way home. Questions: (423) 949-4255. Call ahead to confirm broom-workshop spots.

👉 Read more (Dunlap.Today: Spoons & Tunes) · Dunlap.Today: Broom-making workshop

🎨 A Free, Relaxing Art Class in Spencer

The Van Buren County Prevention Coalition hosts its free Healing Canvas Art Class today, 1 to 3:30 p.m. (Central), at 164 Spring St., Spencer. All supplies are provided. No experience is needed, and all ages are welcome.

What it means for you: Painting is a calm, friendly way to spend an afternoon, and it’s free. Just show up.

👉 Read more (Dunlap.Today: Healing Canvas Art Class)

🫁 Free Lung Screening Coach in Chattanooga (Eastern Time)

CHI Memorial’s Breathe. Easy. Lung Coach is at Nutrition World, 6209 Lee Hwy, Chattanooga, today from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Eastern. That’s 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. our time. Walk-ins are welcome. The screening may be free if you qualify; otherwise self-pay is $150.

What it means for you: It’s for people 50 to 80 (Medicare: 50 to 77) who smoke now or quit in the last 15 years, with a long smoking history and no symptoms. Not sure you qualify? Call 423-495-LUNG (5864).

👉 Read more (Nutrition World: CHI Memorial Lung Coach)

🍽️ Senior Center, Library and Weekend Hours

The Sequatchie County Public Library is closed Saturday and Sunday. It opens again Monday at 8 a.m. We found no weekend posts for the Sequatchie Senior Center, 103 Heard St., Dunlap. Call ahead to confirm Monday’s lunch and activities: (423) 949-2228.

What it means for you: Today is a good day to rest, shop the market or visit family. Need a ride to an appointment next week? Call SETHRA Transit at (423) 478-1396 early on Monday.

👉 Read more (Sequatchie County: Senior Citizens Center)

🌤️ Today’s Weather and a Cold, Clear Night

Today: sunny, high near 50°F, cooling to about 45 late afternoon. Light north wind. Tonight: clear, low around 29°F. Sunday: sunny, high near 55°F. Sunday night: low around 31°F. Monday: sunny, near 57°F.

What it means for you: Expect frost Sunday morning. Give the windshield a few extra minutes, and watch for slick spots on bridges. Let the dog or cat sleep inside, and check on a neighbor who lives alone.

👉 Read more (National Weather Service: Dunlap forecast)

🗓️ Put These on the Fridge: The Days Ahead

• Today, Saturday, Nov. 14: Christmas Market, 10 to 4, Dunlap Fairgrounds. Jasper parade, 1 p.m. Soup and bluegrass at Wheeler’s Orchard, 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. Low near 29°F.
• Sunday, Nov. 15: Market Street Bridge closed, 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. our time. Sunny, about 55°F.
• Monday, Nov. 16: Sequatchie County Commission, 6:30 p.m., courthouse. Chair Dancing at the library, 12:15 and 1 p.m.
• Wednesday, Nov. 18: Erlanger Bledsoe apprenticeship forms due.
• Thursday, Nov. 19: Rural Health Day.
• Monday, Nov. 23: Victory Baptist Church, 2420 Valley View Hwy, Jasper, gives away 75 Thanksgiving meal boxes, 6:30 p.m. Call ahead to confirm how to get one.
• Thursday, Nov. 26: Thanksgiving.
• Tuesday, Dec. 1: Free “Navigating Medicare” class with TN SHIP at the library, 10 a.m. Sign up: 423-949-2357.
• Monday, Dec. 7: Medicare open enrollment ends. Free help: TN SHIP, 1-877-801-0044.

What it means for you: Write these on the kitchen calendar today, so you don’t have to remember them.

👉 Victory Baptist meal boxes · More Valley dates on Dunlap.Today

✅ Your Calm Saturday Checklist

• ✅ Shop the Fredonia Christmas Market, 10 to 4, 103 Heard St. Bring a little cash.
• ✅ Wave a flag at Jasper’s Veterans Day Parade, 1 p.m.
• ✅ Look at any small patio fire pit for a “77” logo, and check your generator’s model.
• ✅ If a shopping website says “card declined,” don’t enter a second card.
• ✅ Write your medicine list for a Medicare plan check before Dec. 7.
• ✅ Pets in, plants in, heater 3 feet from everything. Low near 29 tonight.
• ✅ Going to Chattanooga Sunday morning? Skip the Market Street Bridge.

Practical rule: You don’t have to remember it all. Just keep this page handy, and check back tomorrow morning.

— Dunlap.Today

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Christmas market open Sunday?

No. The Fredonia Christmas Market runs Friday and Saturday only. Today, Saturday, Nov. 14, is the last day, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., at 103 Heard St. in Dunlap.

How do I know if my fire pit is the recalled one?

Look for a small tabletop fire pit with a “77” logo on the front and a lot-code sticker under the base. If it’s a Sharper Image Tabletop or Tabletop Infinity fire pit, stop using it and call 855-215-5032 for a refund.

Is flu worse this year?

It started early, but the CDC rates its severity as “low” so far. If you’re 65 or older and get fever and aches, call your doctor the first day.

When does Medicare open enrollment end?

Monday, Dec. 7. If you’re happy with your plan and it hasn’t changed, you don’t have to do anything. Free, unbiased help: TN SHIP, 1-877-801-0044.

Are today’s times Central or Eastern?

Dunlap, Jasper and Spencer events are on Central time, our time. The Chattanooga lung coach (11 a.m. to 2 p.m.) and the Market Street Bridge closing (8 a.m. to 3 p.m.) are listed in Eastern time. Subtract one hour for our time.

🔗 Helpful Numbers & Resources

• Sharper Image fire pit recall refunds: 855-215-5032
• Cummins generator recall repairs: 800-286-6467
• Wheeler’s Orchard & Vineyard, Dunlap: (423) 949-4255
• Marion County Courthouse, Jasper (weekdays): 423-942-2552
• CHI Memorial lung screening: 423-495-LUNG (5864)
• Sequatchie County Public Library, 227 Cherry St., Dunlap: (423) 949-2357
• Sequatchie Senior Center, 103 Heard St., Dunlap: (423) 949-2228
• Sequatchie County Health Department: (423) 949-3619
• Erlanger main line: 423-778-7000
• SETHRA Transit rides: (423) 478-1396
• Medicare: 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) · TN SHIP free Medicare counseling: 1-877-801-0044
• Social Security: 1-800-772-1213 · Report a scam: ReportFraud.ftc.gov
• Southeast Tennessee Area Agency on Aging and Disability: 1-866-836-6678
• TDOT road conditions: SmartWay.tn.gov or dial 511
• National Weather Service Dunlap forecast: weather.gov point forecast

🌅 A Sunny, Shop-Local, Thank-a-Veteran Kind of Day

Here’s the whole day in one breath. A sunny, crisp 50. Handmade gifts at the Fairgrounds until 4. A parade for our veterans in Jasper at 1. A quick look at the patio fire pit and the generator. Soup and bluegrass at suppertime. Tonight, bring the pets in and give the heater some room. Nothing today needs hurrying, and nothing needs worrying over. Read Dunlap.Today every morning for plain-English Valley news, and find local businesses on Dunlap.Directory.

— Dunlap.Today