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CHATTANOOGA’S WEEKLY ALTERNATIVE
live theater returns to town bridging the digital divide
flu vaccine remains vital
virtual jewish film series
VOLUME 17, ISSUE 40 | SEPTEMBER 30, 2020
Publisher James Brewer, Sr. Brewer Media Group
Conte
VOLUME 17, ISSUE 40 • SE
Managing Editor Gary Poole gary@chattanoogapulse.com Art Director Kelly Lockhart Contributors Julie Van Valkenburg Tim Hensley Kathryn Wroth Margaret Armour Casey Phillips Dr. Andrea Willis Tom Bodkin Ann Treadwell Jenn Webster Senior VP of Sales Lisa Yockey-Rice lisay@brewermediagroup.com Office 1305 Carter St. Chattanooga, TN 37402 Phone 423.265.9494 Email info@chattanoogapulse.com Website chattanoogapulse.com Facebook facebook.com/chattanoogapulse Twitter @chattapulse Founded 2003 by Zachary Cooper & Michael Kull THE FINE PRINT: The Pulse is published weekly by Brewer Media Group and is distributed online. The Pulse covers a broad range of topics concentrating on music, the arts, entertainment, culture, and local news. Contents Copyright Š 2020 by Brewer Media. All rights reserved.
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LIVE THEATER CHATTANOO
Warm, feisty, witty, and wise, the Dela walk us through the last century throu
ents
EPTEMBER 30, 2020
R RETURNS TO THE OGA THEATRE CENTRE
any sisters—103-year-old Sadie and 101-year old Bessie— ugh the lens of the African-American experience ...
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BRIDGING THE DIGITAL DIVIDE
22
FLU VACCINE REMAINS ESSENTIAL 26
THE JEWISH FILM SERIES GOES VIRTUAL
NEWS & NOTES
4
EDUCATION
14
THE ARTS
16
CULTURE
19
STUDENT LIFE
20
HEALTH & WELLNESS
24
BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
28
NEWS & NOTES
Annual Mocca Lecture Series National Park Partners presents the 15th Annual Moccasin Bend Lecture Series with three unique events, presented live via webinar on October 12, 19, and 25. Sponsored by Greg A. Vital since 2006, the Moccasin Bend Lecture Series brings thought leaders and subject matter experts each fall, to share stories and experiences related to National Parks, conservation, history, American Indian culture, and much more. Each virtual event will feature the opportunity for registered guests to submit questions during the programs for live Q & A. This year the 2020 Lecture Series kicks off at noon on Monday, October 12 at 12:00 p.m. with “When the Walk in the Park Goes Wrong: Emergency Response in Our National Parks,” featuring a talk from Lisa Hendy, Chief Ranger of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Lisa’s 26-year career includes assignments at many of the most visited National Parks and extensive experience with search + rescue, fire, and emergency response events. The lecture series continues Monday, October 19 at 12:00 p.m.with “Revisiting The Passage: Ancient Cherokee Art Meets the 21st-century Waterfront.” This virtual panel discussion will feature Bill Glass and Demos Glass, the Glass Stu4 •
CHATTANOOGAPULSE.COM
asin Bend Fall s Goes Virtual dio Artists who lead and created The Passage as part of the 21st Century Waterfront in downtown Chattanooga. They will be joined by Ken Foster, the project linguist who researched the Cherokee alphabet and translations. Facilitating the panel will be Ann Coulter, with A. Coulter Consulting, and Mary Barnett with National Park Partners. In 2007, Barnett and Coulter created One Road, a documentary short about the creation of The Passage as told from the artists’ perspective. The 2020 Moccasin Bend Lectures Series wraps up on Sunday, October 25 at 12:00 p.m. with “The Co-Evolution of Jazz Music and Indigenous Cultures,” a very special afternoon of music and a lively discussion of the influence of indigenous cultures on the evolution of jazz music—and vice versa! Nez Perce musician and educator Julia Keefe will share her beautiful music and extensive knowledge of how jazz music is rooted in American Indian cultures and continues to grow and change along with those cultures. All three events will take place virtually, are free and open to the public, and require a simple registration to receive the event access link. To receive your link to access the live events please register for each event individually by visiting chattanoogapulse.com in the City Life section.
Want To Vote In The Nov. 3 Election? Tennesseans who want to vote in the Nov. 3 State and Federal General Election only have one week until the voter registration deadline on Monday, Oct. 5. “To make your voice heard at the polls on Election Day, you need to register to vote,” said Secretary of State Tre Hargett. “With the convenience of our online voter registration system, it’s never been easier or safer for Tennesseans to register to vote or update their registration.” Registering to vote, updating your address or checking your registration status is fast, easy and secure with the Secretary of State’s online voter registration system. Any U.S. citizen with a driver’s license or a photo ID issued by the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security can register online from any computer or mobile device at GoVoteTN.com. Voters can also download a paper voter registration application at GoVoteTN.com. Completed paper voter registration applications must be submitted or postmarked to your local county election commission office by Oct. 5. Election Day registration is not available. Early voting for the Nov. 3 election starts Wednesday, Oct. 14, and runs Monday to Saturday until Thursday, Oct. 29. Voters can find early voting and Election Day polling locations, view and mark sample ballots and much more at GoVoteTN.com.
SEPTEMBER 30, 2020
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NEWS & NO
Chic Natio Blood Donors Urgently Needed This Week Blood Assurance is urging all eligible donors to make an appointment to give blood this week to help patients in Chattanooga hospitals. Blood donation numbers have drastically dropped during the pandemic, and with hospital usage increasing, the blood supply is at critically low levels. Blood banks across the country are experiencing shortages and are counting on their communities to give. Blood Assurance is the sole supplier to the Chattanooga area and provides all blood products used at local hospitals. “The need for blood never stops and it takes several hundred donors every day to maintain a safe and adequate blood supply for our area hospitals,” said Dr. Elizabeth Culler, medical director at Blood Assurance. “Blood donors are essential to our
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hospital infrastructure just like masks, gloves and medical equipment. Without blood on the shelf, patients cannot be cared for.” Blood donation is essential to the infrastructure of healthcare and the only way to ensure patients have the blood they need is for people to donate. Blood cannot be manufactured and all blood used in community hospitals is from volunteer donors. To be eligible to donate blood, you must be at least 17 years old (16 years old with parental consent), weigh 110 pounds or more and be in good health. Donors are asked to drink plenty of fluids—avoiding caffeine—and eat a meal that is rich in iron prior to donating. To schedule an appointment or find a donor center or mobile drive near you, please visitbloodassurance.org/ schedule or call 800-962-0628.
Following guida for Disease Contro public health auth ga National Milita The National P wide with federal, ities to closely m using a phased ap by-park basis. As of this past nooga National M • Point Park, incl Museum, and t tion using self• Lookout Moun can’s National ly), parking lot, • Sunset Rock pa • Signal Point p picnic pavilion, • Chickamauga America’s Nati daily), and the Field. In addition, the able: all roads, al While not relat Wilder Brigade Mo in the Chickamaug time due to a sche “The health and unteers, and part Chickamauga and
OTES
ckamauga & Chattanooga onal Military Park Reopens
ance from the White House, Centers ol and Prevention, and state and local horities, Chickamauga and Chattanooary Park is increasing access. Park Service (NPS) is working servicestate, and local public health authoronitor the COVID-19 pandemic and pproach to increase access on a park-
Tuesday, Chickamauga and ChattaMilitary Park has reopened access to: luding Ochs Observatory Deck, Ochs the resumption of entrance fee collec-service automated fee machines, ntain Visitor Center, including AmeriParks bookstore (11 am – 3 pm, dai, and restrooms, arking lot, parking lot, overlook, restrooms, and , Battlefield Visitor Center, including ional Parks bookstore (11 am – 3 pm, e Chickamauga Battlefield Recreation
following spaces continue to be availll picnic areas, and all trails. ted to the COVID-19 pandemic, the onument (also known as Wilder Tower) ga Battlefield will remain closed at this eduled interior maintenance project. d safety of our visitors, employees, voltners continues to be paramount. At d Chattanooga National Military Park,
our operational approach will be to examine each facility function and service provided to ensure those operations comply with current public health guidance, and will be regularly monitored,” said Superintendent Brad Bennett. “We continue to work closely with the NPS Office of Public Health using CDC guidance to ensure public and workspaces are safe and clean for visitors, employees, partners, and volunteers.” A safe and enjoyable park experience begins at home. The NPS encourages visitors to plan their visit by checking the park’s website at www.nps.gov/chch as well as social media for current conditions and travel tips. The CDC has offered guidance to help people recreating in parks and open spaces prevent the spread of infectious diseases. We ask the public to be our partner in recreating responsibly, by following CDC and state and local guidance, social distancing, and wearing a face covering when social distance cannot be maintained. SEPTEMBER 30, 2020
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THEATER
Live Theater Returns To The Chattanooga Theatre Centre BY JULIE VAN VALKENBURG
W
arm, feisty, witty, and wise, the Delany sisters—103-yearold Sadie and 101-year old Bessie—walk us through the last century through the lens of the African-American experience as the Chattanooga Theatre Centre returns to the stage with “Having Our Say: The Delany Sisters’ First 100 Years”, opening this Friday and running through Sunday, October 18. “Having Our Say” is the CTC’s first pro-
includes limited capacity of 30 percent,
duction since February, and with it, the the-
“Having Our Say” marks the first of three
atre is bringing audiences a show that is at
productions that the CTC will present this
once a vital historical record while also an
fall.
immensely timely work that reflects social
Along with “Lobby Hero” (November
issues at the forefront of the national con-
6-22) and “It’s A Wonderful Life: A Live
sciousness.
Radio Play” (December 4-20), “Having
A Tony Award nominee based on the
Our Say” features a small cast that allows
real-life sisters’ bestselling memoir, it’s
for social distancing on stage for the safety
also a heartfelt portrait of two remarkable
of the actors.
women who continued to love, laugh, and
Based on a New York Times bestseller
embrace life after over a hundred years of
adapted for the stage by Emily Mann,
living side by side.
“Having Our Say” is a two-woman show
With an extensive safety protocol that
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in which the sisters welcome the audience
as a visitor to their comfortable home in
features the talents of Darleene Cole and
Mount Vernon, NY.
Kim Reynolds in one cast and E’tienne Ea-
One is gentle and one is feisty, and like
sley and Shelia Wofford in the other. The
any two people living together for a length
casts will perform on alternating dates. An-
of time, they finish one another’s sentenc-
nie Collins is the stage manager.
es. They dispense joy and wisdom as they tell us the story of a century of change as
Performances are Fridays at 8 p.m., Saturdays at 2:30 p.m. and 8 p.m., and Sundays at 2:30 p.m.
they lived it. Their story begins in Recon-
The play will be presented in the main-
struction and progresses through the rise
stage theatre with general admission seat-
of Jim Crow, two world wars, the triumphs
ing, although ushers will seat patrons with
of Black culture during the Harlem Renais-
at least three vacant seats between par-
sance, the civil and women’s rights move-
ties, and capacity will be limited to no
ments, up to the present. Their story is not
more than 30 percent. To see the CTC’s
simply African-American history or wom-
22-point safety protocol, visit TheatreCen-
en’s history; it’s American history.
tre.com/SafetyCTC.
Under the helm of director Ricardo Morris, HAVING OUR SAY is double-cast and
For tickets, call the box office at (423) 267-8534 or visit TheatreCentre.com.
SEPTEMBER 30, 2020
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EDUCATION
Bridging The Digital Divide For Students BY TIM HENSLEY
A
network of community partners working to completely bridge the digital divide for Hamilton County students came together to thank state leaders for dedicating more than $3 million in Tennessee Community CARES funding toward the effort to help students during the pandemic.
The new funding helps advance several carefully coordinated initiatives by more than a dozen public-private partners. Hamilton County Schools serves as the hub for reaching the goal of providing all students with internet access - along with the devices needed to learn online. This project is funded under a grant with the State of Tennessee, created to help communities solve obstacles the pandemic has caused. “We thank Gov. Bill Lee, the Tennessee Department of Human Services and all members of the Hamilton County Legislative delegation, especially our state senators, Sen. Bo Watson and Sen. Todd Gardenhire,” said Superintendent Bryan Johnson, Ed.D., Hamilton County Schools. “Their support is a tremendous boost to our public-private initiative, which already includes Hamilton County and the City of Chattanooga along with nonprofits, busi-
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ness funders, and private foundations. The CARES funding is a huge step forward as we work together to bridge the digital divide for all Hamilton County students helping them to become future-ready and prepared for success after graduation.” Through the Tennessee Department of Human Services (DHS), The Enterprise Center will receive about $1.5 million to help students continue their studies during the pandemic by providing fiber optic internet connectivity at home for some 28,000 Hamilton County School students - with no charge to families for up to 10 years through HCS EdConnect powered by EPB. At the same time, Public Education Foundation (PEF) and the Chattanooga Chamber Foundation will use nearly $1.5 million in Tennessee Community CARES funding to provide about 3,200 Chromebooks and tablet devices to help close the device gap,
allowing all students to learn from home as schools respond to COVID-19. “We’re making a smart investment in infrastructure, equipment, and devices that will help our students continue to learn through the current crisis,” said Sen. Bo Watson. Watson served on Gov. Lee’s Financial Stimulus Accountability Group and helped secure $24.6 million in Tennessee pandemic relief funds to support area nonprofits in providing a wide range of pandemic assistance to local people. The tremendous effort to bridge the digital divide speaks to an important priority. “We’re also providing our community with durable assets, so we can continue to deliver the online access for learning these students will need for years to come,” Sen. Watson said. Sen. Todd Gardenhire agreed, saying, “I’m heartened by the fact that our local public schools and their partners are work-
ing to bridge the digital divide in a comprehensive and continuing way. We are using funds in an intelligent and meaningful way that will really make a difference for the people we represent.” Hamilton County Mayor Jim Coppinger leads Hamilton County in efforts to fund Hamilton County Schools. Those efforts include funding for student devices and the recent provision of $1.5 million to help build out HCS EdConnect internet connectivity to all student homes. “These funds will go a long way to help us reach the goal of providing every HCS student with the online access they need,” Mayor Coppinger said. Chattanooga Mayor Andy Berke led the city in providing $1.5 million in support for HCS EdConnect. He said the Chattanooga area is leveraging its existing community-wide fiber optic network to make the project possible.
SEPTEMBER 30, 2020
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EDUCATION “Because EPB led the nation in building out Chattanooga’s fiber optic network to every home and business in the Chattanooga area long before the pandemic began, our community is able to respond much more comprehensively to the dramatic upsurge in need for broadband access,” Mayor Berke said. “Using our smart city infrastructure in this way has a direct bearing on our students’ ability to continue to learn while also giving everyone in their families the critical connectivity they must have for earning and vital services such as telehealth.” Lesley Scearce, president and CEO of United Way of Greater Chattanooga, said these combined efforts highlight a long-standing and vital tradition of community collaboration. United Way is administering the Community CARES grant funds to bridge the digital divide, as well as to other area nonprofits for pandemic relief received through DHS and Tennessee Community CARES. “In greater Chattanooga, we’ve built a culture upon the foundational idea that ‘We live better when we live united,’” Scearce said. “Collaboration around pressing and timely community issues, as seen with HCS EdConnect, will unite people and resources to build a stronger community both for today and the long-term.” Solving the device deficit Building on previous efforts by Hamilton County Schools over several years to provide Chromebooks or tablets to Hamilton County’s 3rd through 12th graders on a 1-to-1 basis, the Public Education Foundation (PEF) and the Chattanooga Chamber
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Foundation plan to dedicate their Tennessee Community CARES funding to provide 3,200 Hamilton County students in grades K-2 with Chromebooks and tablets. The funding will also cover additional programs and other student resources. “Public education is the talent development engine for our community,” said Christy Gillenwater with the Chattanooga Chamber Foundation. “Providing students with devices will further our efforts to ensure our residents have skills for the new economy.” At the outset of the COVID crisis, the Chamber Foundation engaged local businesses in providing more than $100,000 in funding for devices. PEF’s Stacy Lightfoot said older students need devices too. “Some first-year students without a computer are turning in college papers and doing work from their cell phones,” Lightfoot said. “This funding will go a long way towards helping to provide laptops for these recent Hamilton County graduates to ensure they are equipped for college success.” Providing fiber optic internet for all students Tennessee Community Cares funding will also provide The Enterprise Center with $1.52 million in support for HCS EdConnect powered by EPB. Launched in July, this program provides home-based fiber optic internet connectivity at no charge to the families of as many as 28,000 Hamilton County students who meet the federal economic benchmarks for free and reduced lunch. The service includes fiber optic broadband speeds of at least 100 Mbps and no
data caps along with a WiFi router. The Enterprise Center and Tech Goes Home Chattanooga will also play a significant role in facilitating communications and delivering technical support for HCS EdConnect. “Providing access means much more than delivering service, and we’re working to be sure students, and their parents know how to take full advantage of this connectivity as well as provide the support they need when they run into challenges,” said Deb Socia, president of The Enterprise Center. “Digital equity is at the core of The Enterprise Center’s mission. By focusing on how we can provide comprehensive access to our neighbors who struggle to gain and maintain internet service, we create an invaluable source of stability — and opportunity — for families and for our community,” Socia said. As of the July launch, HCS EdConnect partners had already raised $6 million toward upfront infrastructure investment to make the project work. The founding funding partners are Hamilton County, City of Chattanooga, BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee Foundation, and the Smart City Venture Fund, which includes Benwood Foundation, Community Foundation, Footprint Foundation, and Robert L. And Katherina Maclellan Foundation. With the addition of Tennessee Community Cares funding, the current funding total stands at $7.5 million of the projected $8.2 million needed. “EPB is thankful to have so many community partners at all levels joining us as we pursue our mission of enhancing the quality of life and economic growth of our
community,” said David Wade, president & CEO of EPB. “Supporting educational attainment is one of the cornerstones of EPB’s efforts because it lays a foundation for everything else.” Since HCS EdConnect was launched at the end of July, EPB has made rapid progress in building out the service so that it now reaches more than 7,300 students in more than 4,500 households. EPB continues to install more eligible customers as quickly as possible. Wade also encouraged eligible families to call EPB to schedule their installation. “We’re ready to install HCS EdConnect service to thousands of additional families, but we’re having trouble reaching some of them,” Wade said. “We invite every family who opted in by responding to the survey Hamilton County Schools sent out to call us to schedule installation anytime.” HCS EdConnect powered by EPB is at least four times faster than typical educational access offerings from other providers, and it’s the only one that delivers symmetrical speeds (same speed for uploads and downloads) with no data caps. HCS EdConnect families will have more than enough broadband capacity and data to participate in video-based learning and other high bandwidth educational applications. How families can access HCS EdConnect powered by EPB Parents who have opted in for HCS EdConnect are asked to call EPB at (423) 648-1372 anytime. You may also contact your child’s school for more information and to learn how to qualify.
SEPTEMBER 30, 2020
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EDUCATION
Amazon Funding Computer Science Education For 42 Elementary Schools BY TIM HENSLEY
A
mazon is funding computer science education and teacher professional development for 42 elementary schools in Hamilton County Schools, impacting more than 21,700 students from underserved communities and groups currently underrepresented in tech as part of its Amazon Future Engineer program. Hamilton County Schools is part of Amazon Future Engineer’s expansion to more than 5,000 schools, 1,000 of which will be elementary schools. Amazon is working with BootUp PD, a nonprofit professional development provider specializing in elementary school education, to bring computer science to each school. BootUp PD’s typically in-person professional development sessions adapt well to a virtual model and provide teachers with the tools they need to bring engaging coding lessons to their students on-screen and in-person. High-quality computer science education for elementary school students during their school day is a critical piece of Amazon’s “childhood to career” approach. The program helps bridge equity skill gaps at an age when students are just beginning to formulate ideas about their futures. 14 •
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“Amazon’s funding of computer science education in elementary schools through their Amazon Future Engineer program will help the district reach our goal of providing future-ready students prepared for success after graduation,” said Dr. Bryan Johnson, superintendent of Hamilton County Schools. “Computer skills are vital for young people, and the early start in this program for our elementary children will reap benefits while the students are in school and as they move forward in a college or career after they leave high school.” “We are excited to learn that Hamilton County has been selected as one of the latest school districts to join Amazon Future Engineer, Amazon’s computer science education program,” said Hamilton County Mayor Jim Coppinger. “I’m excited that 42 of our elementary
schools will receive computer science curriculum and teacher professional development from Amazon to ensure more of our young students have access to this important skill set. I look forward to the time when we can once again spend time at our schools and talk with teachers who will quickly benefit from this Amazon-funded program to learn how their new knowledge is positively impacting children. For now, I’m thankful this computer science adventure can begin virtually.” Amazon’s commitment to Hamilton County Schools is part of its $50 million investment to increase access to computer science/STEM education across the country, primarily through Amazon Future Engineer. Also, Amazon has donated more than $20 million to organizations that promote computer science/STEM education. Already in Tennessee, there are more than 60 high schools and more than 80 elementary schools participating in the Amazon Future Engineer program. “We’ve been incredibly impressed with the stories we hear of elementary school teachers going above and beyond to keep their young students engaged, learning and smiling, especially during these difficult times,” said Jeff Wilke, CEO Worldwide Consumer, Amazon. “As students from across the country begin school—whether virtually or in-person—we are confident that Amazon Future Engineer’s focus on younger students in need will be a helpful tool for teachers as they prepare all
of their students for a bright future.” Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, Amazon employees volunteer virtually in Amazon Future Engineer classrooms, talking to the students about the importance of their computer science education. Amazon Future Engineer also launched the Amazon Cyber Robotics Challenge—a free, virtual, first of its kind coding competition that teaches students the basics of computer science in the context of a real-life industry challenge. “This opportunity will close equity gaps by ensuring computer science learning opportunities for students in under-served communities throughout the nation,” said Clark Merkley, BootUp PD’s Executive Director. “It is the first ongoing national sponsorship focused on implementing sustainable, district-wide computer science. We’re extremely proud to be a part of something that will have a measurable, positive impact for decades to come.”
SEPTEMBER 30, 2020
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THE ARTS
ArtsBuild A Work Pro BY KATHRYN WROTH
Golden Hour Gallery Opens Friday at Erlanger Arts at Erlanger announces the opening of the “Golden Hour” gallery at Erlanger Baroness Hospital on October 2 in the gallery corridor. The juried gallery consists of a multitude of different mediums including paintings and photographs reflecting the golden lighting that occurs the first hour after dawn and the last hour before sunset. Cypress lakes, sunset beaches, towering trees and cloudy skies all glow with life in this blissful gallery. The gallery will be available for viewing from October 2 until January 6,2021 in the gallery corridor at Erlanger Baroness Hospital. Due to current visiting limitations in place to reduce the spread of COVID-19, only hospital staff, patients and approved visitors can access the gallery corridor. However, all gallery artwork can be viewed online at erlanger.org/artsaterlanger or on Erlanger Health System’s social media pages. The Arts at Erlanger committee is a volunteer organization that facilitates art-based therapy throughout the health system. The goal of the Arts at Erlanger committee is to provide reprieve for hospital patients and visitors who may draw comfort from a variety of art forms including visual art, music and dance.
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A
rtsBuild, Public Art Chat see Development District are ple Grants program providing fundi and non-profit arts organizations in Chattanooga.
Funding for the new program is provided by the City of Chattanooga, Lyndhurst Foundation, Benwood Foundation, and the Footprint Foundation. With the sudden loss of audiences, jobs and patrons in the region’s arts sector due to the COVID-19 outbreak, there is a need for economic stimulus that benefits both the creative sector and the public realm. The program is designed to provide much-needed work and project funding for artists. Goals for the program include: Infuse the local creative economy with various project-related purchases tied to the creation, installation, and documentation of art projects; Produce artworks for Chattanooga’s public realm that enhance and animate outdoor or indoor public spaces; pro-
Announces New Artists ogram For Chattanooga
ttanooga and the Southeast Tenneseased to announce a new Artists Work ing to individual artists, artist studios s to produce artworks for public spaces
s , -
, s , s r s k s
y s d
s e -
vide access to a diversity of artists and artistic experiences; elevate the role artists play in connecting people and place; Create physically distant yet shared experiences that prompt hope, healing and connection for Chattanoogans. Grants are available in two categories: Exhibition & Performance ($2,500$25,000) and Public Art ($25,000$75,000). Each category has a specific set of requirements. Applications will be accepted between September 30, 2020 and May 14, 2021, as long as funds are available. Application reviews will occur after the following quarterly submission deadlines: Deadline #1: Friday, October 30, 2020; Deadline #2: Friday, February 26, 2021; Deadline #3: Fri-
day, May 14, 2021. For more details about the guidelines, terms and the types of artworks that will be considered, as well as the application, please visit: artsbuild.gosmart.org. For Artists Work grant questions, information and consultation, contact Miriam Manda, Manager of Grants & Community Engagement, (423) 777-4214, miriam@ artsbuild.com. For application technical support, contact Sara Lee Tolbert, Office Manager/Administrative Assistant, (423) 7774215, saralee@artsbuild.com. SEPTEMBER 30, 2020
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CU
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ULTURE
Japanese Library Opening Up On The North Shore BY MARGARET ARMOUR
P
atrons of Chattanooga’s I Go Tokyo will be able to borrow Japanese language books to take home and read beginning Wednesday with the grand opening of its free in-house Japanese lending library. The public is cordially invited to visit and discover the treasures within.
The collection currently boasts around 150 titles and contain a variety of novels and non-fiction works. There are some children’s books available, with more being added as frequently as possible. Anime is not currently part of the collection. The library was conceived of as a simple, yet powerful community hub where Japanese people and all of Chattanooga’s neighbors could meet to share and enjoy Japanese society and experience some of its fascinating culture, according to owner Margaret Amour. New-to-Chattanooga Japanese residents can avail themselves of the resources there, and their families can visit and meet other families to create new local relationships. “We have friends, associates, and co-workers from San Francisco and across the country with vibrant Japanese communities who are donating books. Let’s share and learn,” says Armour, continuing with a smile, “If you can read the title in Japanese, you can check out the book.” When thinking about retail, the mind goes to sales, but the concept of a library dovetails
with owner Armour’s concept of what her store should be: a place for the community to convene and share experiences; a place to foster the local - and international - cultures Chattanooga is rapidly becoming noted for. And while I Go Tokyo’s focus is stationery, linens and home goods, the shelves are always filled with surprises and fun kawaii (cute) gifts. For a society built on ceremony and tradition, Japan’sstyles and pop culture move remarkably quickly, and Armour’s frequent trips to Japan keep her up on the latest trends and enable her to keep her stock exciting and always fresh. In addition to her more well-known products and companies, Armour is currently the first person in America to carry the goods from over 15 different Japanese companies and her dedication to finding exceptional and high quality Japanese goods for her clientele keeps her busy. Since opening its doors in 2018, I Go Tokyo emphasizes the basic truth that people are people; community is what unites and inspires regardless of differences in culture or distance. SEPTEMBER 30, 2020
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STUDENT LIFE
Aquarium Cutting Ticket Prices In Half For College Students In October BY CASEY PHILLIPS
A
s much fun as it can be, attending a college is also a stressful, challenging time, and that’s especially true during a global health crisis.
To help students de-stress and enjoy some much-needed distraction, the Tennessee Aquarium is offering 50 percent discounted admission to all students, staff and faculty members of physical and online universities during the month of October. To receive the discount, college students must be currently enrolled and present a valid student ID or online transcript. College faculty and staff can take advantage of the discount by presenting a pay stub. The discount applies to the entire paying party and is offered on all tickets purchased between Oct. 1 and Oct. 31, including repeat visits. Tickets may only be purchased on-site at the Aquarium ticketing center or the IMAX Theater box office on Chestnut Street. Tickets will be issued with designated entry times to allow for physical distancing
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between family groups, and wait times may apply. All guests ages 12 and up are required to wear a face-covering during their visit in accordance with Hamilton County public health policies. As fall colors move across Southern Appalachia like a slow-motion fireworks display, guests visiting the Aquarium this month are sure to see early signs of the seasonal shift inside the building as well. (Yes, really!) At the onset of their journey from the mountains to the sea in the River Journey building, visitors explore a sprawling, breathtaking recreation of an Appalachian Cove Forest. As they wind between towering rock walls under a canopy of living trees, guests will see brilliant hints of red, yellow and orange beginning to creep across the foliage. Of course, all that color pales next to the excitement of watching the underwa-
ter antics of North American River Otters that call this gallery home, but it’s a stunning start to the adventure. Those visiting the Aquarium for the first time (or even returning for the first time in a while) will find plenty of exciting new discoveries along the way, from a pair of teddy bear-like Red-collared Brown Lemurs in Lemur Forest to a dinosaur-like Alligator Snapping Turtle in the Delta Country gallery. The newest addition to the Aquarium experience is the recently reimagined Turtles of the World gallery. This pristine collection of exhibits highlights the amazing diversity of turtles from all over the world, with special emphasis placed on “hot spots” of turtle diversity in the Southeastern U.S. and Southeast Asia. The gallery’s real showstopper (and heart string-tugger), however, is the Turtle Nursery, where visitors can check in on dozens of tiny hatchlings representing a variety of imperiled species. These recent additions build on an already-exciting Aquarium experience that has enthralled more than 25 million guests since 1992. Visitors will be captivated by a plethora of other remarkable animals and amazing behaviors as they explore, from sparkling Flashlight Fish and rocketing Gentoo and Macaroni Penguins to titanic Arapaimas, toothy Sand Tiger Sharks and ghost-like Moon Jellyfish. Across the street, the Tennessee Aquarium IMAX 3D Theater is offering up exciting 3D cinematic adventures using a state-ofthe-art IMAX with Laser projection system
on a titanic, six-story screen that’s larger than any other in Chattanooga. The theater’s current offerings include a trio of recent favorites: Great Barrier Reef 3D — Explore the amazing diversity of life and the fragile beauty of the largest living structure on earth through the eyes (and lens) of one of its most unexpected residents and greatest champions: conservationist and underwater filmmaker Jemma Craig. Superpower Dogs 3D — Meet some of the best, brightest and most-talented examples of man’s best friend. Learn how these powerful pups use their special skills to help disaster victims, protect endangered species and even give comfort to victims of trauma. Narrated by Chris Evans. Turtle Odyssey 3D — Embark on an epic voyage with a young sea turtle hatchling as she explores South Pacific waters filled with a host of amazing animals, including Manta Rays, Giant Cuttlefish and Leafy Sea Dragons. Narrated by Academy Award winner Russell Crowe More info about College Days is available at tnaqua.org/college-days.
SEPTEMBER 30, 2020
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HEALTH & WELLN
In A COVID Vaccine Re BY DR. ANDREA WILLIS
I
f you’ve recently hear relation to the novel coro ed and proven way to co
But there’s another virus to be c about — the flu. And this year’s available now. It takes about two be fully effective, so getting a f September will help protect you a za starts to spread in October. While these past months may s blur, the reality is that we are ap fall, and with it, flu season. On the flu hospitalizes more than Americans per year. Worse, it ca deaths in the tens of thousands country. The Centers for Disease Co Prevention reports that more th Tennesseans died from influen the 2017-2018 season. Pair that with a pandemic that signs of slowing before flu seaso and the gravity of the situation This year, the flu could actually dangerous than usual. That may sound frightening, b explain why it’s true — and wh do to help prevent it.
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NESS
D-19 Era, The Flu emains Essential
rd the word “vaccine,” it’s most likely been in onavirus as anticipation grows for a safe, testombat COVID-19.
concerned vaccine is o weeks to flu shot in as influen-
seem like a pproaching n average, 200,000 an result in across the
ontrol and han 1,600 nza during
shows few on begins, n is clear. y be more
but let me at we can
Our public health care infrastructure is going to be challenged. The past few months have seen the tragic results of a limited number of health care resources, such as not enough COVID-19 tests, overworked and exhausted front-line providers, and fewer adult hospital beds. Like COVID-19, the flu is easily transmitted via droplets that result from sneezing, coughing or talking. Adults age 65 and over, pregnant women, young children, and those with a history of asthma, heart disease and stroke, and diabetes are most susceptible to the flu. Both the flu and COVID-19 can cause severe upper respiratory infections. Studies have shown a flu shot can reduce the likelihood of catching the flu by 40-60%. Even if you aren’t at high-risk, getting vaccinated can help protect those who are. Ironically, people following safety precautions for COVID-19 is another reason to worry about flu season. Some may be afraid to visit the doctor or worry there’s no room for them in the health care system.
We have to stay as safe as we can, and that means getting a flu shot – not avoiding one. Even with this reality upon us, we don’t have to live in a state of panic. Vaccines have been proven safe and effective for decades. Consider diseases like polio, which was eradicated in the U.S. thanks to development of a commercial vaccine in 1961. Measles rates dropped for many years after its vaccine was widely accepted beginning in 1963, though we’re now seeing a resurgence because some children aren’t vaccinated. Perhaps most importantly with COVID-19 still lurking, the flu vaccine can help keep your immune system from being impaired. (A dual diagnosis is possible, but we do not yet know what effects both viruses will have on the body.) Even if the flu vaccine isn’t always exact, its safety should never be in doubt. And most individuals who receive it either avoid contracting the virus or have a milder case if they do. Let me be clear: the benefits of the flu vaccine far outweigh any risks. If you have health insurance, your flu shot is likely covered at no or very little cost. If you don’t have insurance, remember that most local health departments in Tennessee have free flu shots available while supplies last, in addition to offering flu shots at a reasonable cost. So please, get your flu shot, and if you can, get it now. Getting ahead of the virus’ spread could prove crucial for the health of you and your loved ones. Andrea D. Willis, MD, MPH, FAAP, is senior vice president and chief medical officer at BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee.
SEPTEMBER 30, 2020
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HEALTH & WELLNESS
Health Department S Guidance For Hallowee BY TOM BODKIN
T
he Hamilton County Health Department wants residents to know what their risks are and how they can protect themselves and others this Halloween holiday. The customary practices of Halloween, such as trick-ortreating or costume parties, could cause people to come into contact with the COVID-19 virus. “We know the approaching holiday season brings expectations of seasonal gatherings and festivals,” said Health Department Administrator Becky Barnes, “The most important way you can protect others and yourself is to wear a mask, maintain at least 6 feet of social distance, and stay home if you are sick with any symptoms.” Individuals and families should consider the following in their observances of Halloween: • COVID-19 symptoms – if you have any symptoms, regardless of how mild they may seem, do not leave home, go trick-or-treating, or attend any gatherings. • Costume masks – these should not be used in place of cloth masks unless it is made of two or more layers of breathable fabric that covers your mouth and nose and does not leave 24 •
CHATTANOOGAPULSE.COM
gaps around your face. Wearing a cloth mask over a costume mask could create breathing difficulties. Instead, consider using a Halloween-themed cloth mask that conforms to the above standards. • Trick-or-treating and trunk-or-treating - these are some of the highest risk activities as they put people into close proximity with others, especially people outside of your household unit. • If you are giving treats away, only use prepackaged items. Consider creating individual grab bags and leaving them at the edge of your driveway or yard. Duration and number of people at a gathering: • The lowest risk is to not have Halloween parties this year. • The longer you are at an event and
the high • Trav hom risk ing clos • Hau talk ry d carr othe • Com – th mun tive ther surr CO Som ing a p membe carving contes enger the ho membe For COVID ment t ment h
Safety en 2020
more people at an event, the her the risk. veling – traveling outside your me community increases your k of either contacting or spreadthe virus. Staying at home or se to home lowers your risk. unted houses – screaming and king loudly can create respiratodroplets and fine spray that can ry the virus and is breathed in by ers. mmunity levels of COVID-19 he virus is present in our comnity with more than 1,500 ace cases in Hamilton County, and re are active cases in all of the rounding counties. There are no OVID-free areas in our county. me low risk activities include carvpumpkin at home with household ers, having a virtual pumpkin g contest or a virtual costume t, decorating at home, or scavhunt-style trick-or-treat around ouse with just your household ers. more information about D-19 and free Health Departtesting, call the Health Departhotline at (423) 209-8383. SEPTEMBER 30, 2020
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SCREEN
The C Film S BY ANN TREADWELL
F
ive Jewish-the States, Norway, Israe beginning October ognition at film festi and brought to the c
“In May we had to sus person screenings of the to the pandemic.” stated ecutive Director of the Je Continuing Dzik said “As ning, international film nooga, we felt that it wa able to present the Series that would make it acces est number of people.” How will the virtual C ish Film Series work? The ignated 48-hour time pe on Tuesday until noon o film will be available to b time during that period. guest speakers will be vir discuss the film Thursday film’s screenings, via Zoo
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Chattanooga Jewish Series Goes Virtual five for the series and one for the sponsor event.
emed, award-winning films produced in the United el, France and Great Britain and will be virtually shown 20 for five consecutive weeks. All have received recivals throughout the United States, Europe and Israel community by the Jewish Cultural Center.
spend our usual in e Film Series due Michael Dzik, Exewish Federation. s the longest runseries in Chattaas important to be s virtually, in a way ssible to the great-
Chattanooga Jewere will be a deseriod, from noon on Thursday. The be screened at any . For some films, tually available to evening after that om.
There are two ways to view the films. As a Subscriber, each of the five films that begin October 20 will be available for $50 per household. One-Film-At-A-Time is available for $12 per film, both with online registration. To be a Subscribe or purchase OneFilm-At-A-Time, register and make payment on the Jewish Federation’s website jewishchattanooga.com. Payment will trigger our ability to link you to each film. This will also allow us to capture your e-mail address in order to send you the viewing codes. Following each film, we will send you an evaluation and chance to win a prize. An average of 30 films are reviewed by a committee of dedicated volunteers each year in order to choose 6 feature films,
The Series schedule is as follows: • October 20 Golda’s Balcony, The Film • October 27 The Crossing • November 3 Incitement • November 10 An Irrepressible Woman • November 17 The Keeper Films screened at major national and international film festivals, those recommended by peers throughout the United States, and those brought to the committee’s attention by filmmakers are included in the selection process. For more information, call the Jewish Federation at (423) 4930270 or to secure a Subscription or One-Film-At-A-Time visit jewishchattanooga.com.
SEPTEMBER 30, 2020
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EPB BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
The Mane Oasyss: Care For Natural Hair BY JENN WEBSTER
J
oscelyn Johnson, owner of The Mane Oasyss and JoLei Hair Oil and Products, has been an expert on hair and skin care almost before she graduated from school.
In fact, she spent her college years mixing hair potions in her dorm room. When you visit The Mane Oasyss or drop by her website to order some products, you’ll be benefiting from Johnson’s years of hands-on experience with natural hair. “I was diagnosed with eczema in grade school,” she says. “I’ve always had an issue with strong scents, washing powders, and detergents, starting from childhood through when I obtained my professional certification. So over the years I researched different ingredients. I came across Shea butter, and it took off from there. Now I offer three product lines for hair, skin, and face care.” However, Johnson is best known for the close relationships she builds with customers at The Main Oasyss. Experience Expert Hair Care The Mane Oasyss is located in Northgate Mall in the J. C. Penney area. John28 •
CHATTANOOGAPULSE.COM
son specializes in natural hair; in addition to braids, locs, cutting, and styling, she offers customers advice about how to keep their hair healthy and beautiful. “African-American hair has more texture and a thicker consistency than other nationalities,” Johnson says. “Going back to my eczema, I had to keep my hair in the most natural state. In the African-American community as a whole, going back to the natural texture of your hair is becoming more popular nowadays.” Working with natural hair takes extra time, and Johnson is happy to give that time to every customer. She can spend from two to four hours at a session, she says. “You have to give natural hair more time and TLC, and love it,” she says. “I spend time with each client building relationships, talking about their home regimens, and giving them tips and tricks on how to love their hair a little
better.” Even with COVID-19 precautions strictly in place, The Mane Oasyss is still a place you can find peace and— as Johnson says—TLC in a sometimes-stressful world. And there’s a great promotion that never ends: every sixth appointment is 15 percent off. Treat Yourself to JoLei Whether you’re looking for a hair, skin, or body product, JoLei has something for you. Each product line features home-made contains natural ingredients. The pleasant scents come from plants you can recognize, such as dried roses, meaning they’ll be gentle for sensitive skin. Hair Care. Johnson’s hair therapy oil is compounded of jojoba, grapeseed,
and castor oils, with a few essential oils. “These are my number one products,” Johnson says. “Customers love them. You can use these oils for hair or body.” Body Care. Products such as lip balm, hand sanitizer, body butter and bath soak meet needs from hygiene to moisturization. “I whip my body butter from 100 percent raw Shea butter with essential oils,” Johnson says. “Whipping gives it a softer consistency.” Skin Care. From African black soap to scrubs and toners, these products can complement any ethnicity, Johnson says. Find Joscelyn Johnson themaneoasyss.com joleiproducts.com (423) 521-0161
Local Business Spotlight is proudly supported by EPB Fiber Optics and The Pulse. SEPTEMBER 30, 2020
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Discover the unsearchable Discover the forest
Find a trail near you at DiscoverTheForest.org
