CHATTANOOGAPULSE.COM
CHATTANOOGA’S WEEKLY ALTERNATIVE
a drivers education can a dash cam really make you a better driver?
“Our Diversity Is Our Strength” Preserving Our Local History UTC Is Helping To Teach The Teachers Burgers, Beer, Coffee & Cocktails VOLUME 17, ISSUE 38 | SEPTEMBER 16, 2020
Conte Publisher James Brewer, Sr. Brewer Media Group
VOLUME 17, ISSUE 38 • SE
Managing Editor Gary Poole gary@chattanoogapulse.com Art Director Kelly Lockhart Contributors Mayor Andy Berke Michael Thomas Jenn Webster Dalton Temple Meagan Jolley Shawn Ryan 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 © 2020 by Brewer Media. All rights reserved.
16
DO DASH BETTER DR
Everyone thinks they’re a percent of people believe
ents
EPTEMBER 16, 2020
H CAMS LEAD TO RIVING?
good driver. Most surveys find that between 80-85 e they are above average in their driving abilities.
8
“OUR DIVERSITY IS OUR STRENGTH” 21
WORKING TO PRESERVE OUR HISTORY 24
HELPING TO TEACH THE TEACHERS NEWS & NOTES
4
DINING OUT
15
LOCAL POLITICS
18
BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
26
NEWS & NOTES
It’s Time To Flu Shot. Ye
This flu season is going to be more challenging than ever due to the added risk of COVID-19 in our community. Influenza and COVID-19 are both contagious respiratory illnesses, but they are caused by different viruses. Because some of the symptoms of flu and COVID are similar, it may be hard to tell them apart based on symptoms alone. Your healthcare provider may need to perform a test to confirm a diagnosis. The CDC estimates that nearly 17 million workdays are lost each year due to the flu, resulting in approximately $10 billion per year in direct medical expenses. Free tools for employers and employees can be found here. During the 2019-2020 flu season, the CDC estimates there were between 3956 million cases of flu in the US, resulting in 410,000-740,000 hospitalizations, and between 24,000-62,000 deaths. The flu vaccine is recommended for all persons aged 6 months or older who do not have contraindications. Those at highest risk for serious complications from the flu include children under 5 years, adults 65 years and over, pregnant women, and those with preexisting medical conditions or a compromised 4 •
CHATTANOOGAPULSE.COM
o Get Your es, Really. immune system. The Hamilton County Health Department urges residents to get the flu vaccine as soon as possible this year. The Health Department will begin to offer the vaccine within the next few weeks at a drive-through “Point of Dispensing” (POD), but residents should not wait and should get vaccinated sooner rather than later. Detailed information will be forthcoming as the planning is still in progress. The vaccine is presently available at some area pharmacies. “It is possible for a person to get both the COVID-19 virus and the influenza virus at the same time or back-to-back,” said County Health Officer Dr. Paul Hendricks, “You can protect yourself and others from influenza by getting the flu vaccine early this year, wearing a mask, social distancing, washing hands frequently, and staying home if you are sick with any kind of symptoms.” Flu vaccine will not be available this year at the Health Department’s outlying clinics in Ooltewah, Sequoyah, and Birchwood as they remain temporarily closed due to the COVID response. The Homeless Healthcare Center will continue to serve transient and homeless individuals.
Earn High School Equivalency Diplomas Online Adults across Tennessee who did not graduate high school now have an online pathway that will lead them to a high school equivalency diploma. Every county in the state offers students virtual classes that will prepare them to take the online HiSET examination. The Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development is coordinating the statewide campaign “Learn Online. Graduate Online.” to make adult education accessible to all interested Tennesseans. “There are still several adult education programs whose classrooms are closed due to COVID-19,” said Jay Baker, interim Assistant Commissioner of Adult Education. “We want everyone interested in improving their math, literacy, and English language skills to know they never have to leave home and they can still work to change their future. And that includes earning a high school equivalency diploma—all of it can be done completely online.” Individuals interested in learning more about their local adult education program can call TDLWD at 800-531-1515. Callers will give agents details about their local area and then transfer the caller to the adult education provider in their area. Once in contact with a local provider, interested individuals will receive the resources needed to begin their online adult education.
SEPTEMBER 16, 2020
• 5
NEWS & NO
Chatt Wi
virtual cinema: “Jimmy Carter: Rock & Roll President” While their historic theatre is temporarily closed, The Bobby Stone Film Series presented by West Village at the Tivoli Theatre continues to bring the very best in cinema magic to our friends and community. This is a new way for audiences to watch new releases from the safety of their homes during this unprecedented time while also supporting the Tivoli Theatre Foundation. If it hadn’t been for a bottle of scotch and a late-night visit from musician Gregg Allman, Jimmy Carter might never have been elected the 39th President of the United States. The documentary charts the mostly forgotten story of how Carter, a lover of all types of music, forged a tight bond with musicians Willie Nelson, 6 •
CHATTANOOGAPULSE.COM
the Allman Brothers, Bob Dylan and others. Low on campaign funds and lacking in name recognition, Carter relied on support from these artists to give him a crucial boost in the Democratic primaries. Once Carter was elected, the musicians became frequent guests in the White House. The surprisingly significant role that music played throughout Carter’s life and in his work becomes a thread in this engaging portrait of one of the most enigmatic Presidents in American history. Tickets are $9.99. For a complete list of films in the The Bobby Stone Film Series, visit tivolichattanooga. com/events/bobby-stone-film-series/ virtual-cinema
Chattano een house ensure peop of the pand Registrati locations w tanoogagho Chattanoog fill of the sp During th vote for the of the site o book page. house and t “We did n een, as they
OTES
tanooga Ghost Tours Sponsors Cityide Halloween Decorating Contest
ooga Ghost Tours is sponsoring a Hallowand neighborhood decorating contest to ple still get to enjoy the season in the midst demic. ion is free and the address of participating ill be listed on both their website at chatosttours.com and their Facebook page, so ga residents and visitors alike can get their pooky atmosphere through October 31. he last week of the contest, the public can eir favorites by posting an original photo on that location’s entry on the Tour’s Face-
. Prizes will be awarded to both the winning the winning neighborhood. not want people to be deprived of Hallowy have so many celebrations this year,” says
company president Amy Petulla. “We came up with the decorating contest as a way to allow people to enjoy some touch-free chills while remaining safely in their vehicles. Where I grew up, some folks decorated their yards and even whole neighborhoods in a big way, and this is the perfect year to bring that back. And it’s free, so everyone who wants to can participate. This is Chattanooga Ghost Tours’ gift to the community.” Participants will register via email to chattanoogaghosttours@yahoo.com, and later notify CGTI they are ready to be viewed by sending a photo of their location, to be posted on Facebook, along with the address both there and on the website. Chattanooga Ghost Tours will maintain the listings throughout the season so that Halloween can be enjoyed for weeks, and will publicize the winners on Halloween day.
SEPTEMBER 16, 2020
• 7
DIVERSITY
“Our Diversity Is Our Strength” A BY MAYOR ANDY BERKE
s many of you know by now, early Sunday morning, the Walnut Street Bridge and portions of the Bluff View Art District, two of our city’s most beloved and beautiful public spaces, were defaced with swastikas. The Chattanooga Police Department is investigating and I have every confidence that the vandals will be identified and brought to justice soon. Our Public Works crews worked diligently to remove these symbols of hate from our bridges and walls. While we do not know the intent of those who perpetrated this act, we know that the end result is residents feeling less comfortable in their home. Our city is resolved, as it always has been, to condemn anyone who seeks to intimidate, discriminate, or foment violence against any ethnic or religious group. The first thing we all must do when we see hate speech and hate symbols is call them out. These symbols and this behavior have no place in our city, our state, or our nation. A few years ago, I created the Mayor’s Council Against Hate because I wanted the Chattanooga area to be known as the 8 •
CHATTANOOGAPULSE.COM
most civil, safe, and welcoming community in the country, and a place that honors freedom of expression, protects marginalized populations, and regards diversity as an essential strength. Please visit cha.city/ againsthate to join this effort. Building an inclusive community means ensuring opportunities for all of our residents to succeed and breaking down the barriers that prevented them from doing so in the first place One way we’re doing this is through our Styles L. Hutchins Diverse Talent and Recruitment Fellowship. We launched the Styles L. Hutchins Fellowship last year, which focuses on helping students build a plan to make Chattanooga a city where talented young people of color can create prosperous futures after college.
We’ve had two cohorts of incredibly talented young Black men and women from UTC looking to help the City and our partners do more to level the playing field and retain and recruit Black talent in our community—and now we’re recruiting our next cohort. Applications are now open to join the Styles L. Hutchins Fellows. Potential candidates for the Fellowship are Black undergraduate students in the second semester of their junior year, any semester of their senior year, or first-year graduate students. Applications will be open until midnight next Monday, September 21. To learn more and to apply visit cha.city/styles. We know that Chattanooga is a city of creators full of diverse business owners and
entrepreneurs. The City of Chattanooga strives to work with as many of these vendors as possible, but we also understand that navigating the government procurement process can be difficult -- especially for small businesses. The City’s Office of Multicultural Affairs (OMA) and the Purchasing Department will host a Virtual Purchasing Fair on Friday, September 18. The event gives businesses the opportunity to learn how to work with the City and hear directly from department and division leaders looking for vendors. The Fair is free to attend and completely virtual. To learn more and register, please visit cha.city/purchasingfair. Thank you and please stay safe.
SEPTEMBER 16, 2020
• 9
10 •
CHATTANOOGAPULSE.COM
AUTOMOTIVE
Do Dash Cams Lead To Better Driving? BY MICHAEL THOMAS
E
veryone thinks they’re a good driver. Most surveys find that between 80-85 percent of people believe they are above average in their driving abilities. Aside from being bad math, all you need to do is spend about 30 seconds on any road in America, and you know that is simply not true. A new survey conducted by Christian Brothers Automotive asked people to name the top signs someone is a bad driver. Topping the list, not surprisingly, was speeders. Nearly two-thirds of all drivers say speeding is the thing that most annoys them on the road. Yet, over forty percent of those admitted that they like to drive fast themselves, and one in three believes that speed limits are more of a “suggestion” than an actual law. Other driving pet peeves included cutting people off, tailgating, road rage, using the horn too much, not using turn signals, driving with one hand on the wheel, and using a phone while driving. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says that one of the leading causes of accidents is dis-
tracted driving, which leads to nearly 3,000 highway fatalities every year. I should know, I was almost a victim myself. So, what can you do about protecting yourself from bad drivers? Obviously, being a better—and more defensive— driver yourself is your best bet. Don’t speed excessively, obey traffic regulations, so on and so forth. But what else can you do to protect yourself from the countless bad and distracted drivers on the road? After a near miss from an inattentive driver on I-75 through the construction zone earlier this year, I decided to buy a dash cam. I’ve seen a number of videos on YouTube that show crazy accidents and bad driving, and in so many of them I noticed that if it hadn’t been for SEPTEMBER 16, 2020
• 11
AUTOMOTIVE
a video record, the victimized drivers would have been either judged to be at fault or have to split insurance costs. And while my initial reasoning was self-protection, I came to realize that having a dash cam was also making me a better driver. For example, the model I purchased includes information such as my own speed, which had the unexpected results of taking some of the lead out of my once heavy foot. I also learned to avoid turning left onto four (or more) lane roads unless I was at a traffic light, and to maintain more distance behind the car in front of me, especially when traffic slows down.
12 •
CHATTANOOGAPULSE.COM
It also led me down the YouTube rabbit hole of watching the various dash cam compilations. After watching many hours of videos of bad drivers and unexpected accidents, it made me think more about how I drive and made me far more attentive on the roadways than I had been before. That said, as a reporter, I started to wonder if the dash cam videos were having the same effect on other drivers. So I reached out to the creators of two of the major YouTube channels that specialize in compiling the videos to get their thoughts. I spoke with Lijah of Dashcam Time,
and Jeff at DDS TV, two very popular and educational channels. As in, they provide analysis instead of just sensationalizing accidents and bad driving. The Pulse: Why do you feel that dash cam videos have become so popular? Lijah: They provide great insurance for drivers at a reasonable price. Jeff: I believe dash cams have become more popular, due to videos over the ‘net portraying crazy scenes happening on the road, as well as for security purposes. Studies have shown that people feel a lot more confident driving with a dash cam, than without. The Pulse: What are the most common driving mistakes people make? Lijah: I believe the most common driving mistakes would be distracted driving and speeding. Jeff: I feel like the most common driving mistakes are one of two things. Distracted driver, being on the phone, reaching for something, etc., and the other that’s not really talked about is hesitation. Sometimes people get hesitant if they want to proceed, or not proceed, which results in confusion, and a potential accident. As the old man used to say, “either go, or don’t go, but don’t not go”—if that makes sense. The Pulse: Do you really feel that dash cam videos make people better drivers? Lijah: I do believe dash cam videos make people better drivers as it encourages society that you never know
when something is captured. Jeff: I definitely feel like dash cams make people better drivers. The reason for this is because a sense of accountability and/or a sense that “someone is watching”. I’ve seen multiple instances where when road-ragers see themselves being filmed, they instantly cool down. It’s a chilling effect for sure. The Pulse: What are the best reasons to buy a dash cam? Lijah: Insurance purposes and to educate other drivers of incidents. Jeff: I always tell people, it’s like car insurance. God forbid, hopefully you never need to use it, but it is always good to have and not need, as opposed to needing it and not having it. If you can spend $100-$200 on a dash cam that can save you thousands of dollars on a ticket or insurance claim in one instance, it seems like a great investment to me! And the nicest thing about dash cams is they are even more affordable and easy to install than ever before. They mostly range in price from $40 to $400, and have a wide variety of features. The best bet is to search both Google and Amazon for updated reviews and find the cam that is right for you. And in the meantime, slow down a little, use your turn signals, and always leave enough room between you and the car in front of you. Once you watch a few of the dash cam videos, you’ll understand why.
SEPTEMBER 16, 2020
• 13
14 •
CHATTANOOGAPULSE.COM
DINING OUT
The Tap House: Burgers, Beer, Coffee, and Cocktails BY JENN WEBSTER
I
t’s a breezy September Saturday. After a fern-filled hike on Lookout Mountain, you’re strolling through St. Elmo with your main squeeze. She’s keen on an espresso to perk her back up, while you’re all about an ice-cold beer. What’s your choice? Why not try The Tap House at 3800 St. Elmo Ave., where you can get beverages from local craft beer to sake-based cocktails, accompanied by a robust array of burgers and pub food? The Tap House is a laid-back cousin to a pub—a coffee-shop café with a wide selection of good beer. If you’re a tourist, The Tap House is a great first pit stop. Not only can you soak up Chattanooga’s ineffable vibe, you can sample brews from numerous local breweries, all in one place. And if you’re a local, The Tap House may be in the running to become your favorite gathering spot. Drinks for All Primarily, The Tap House is known for its wide, ever-changing selection of beers. “We’re bringing a little bit of the beer network into St. Elmo,” owner Chris Calhoun says. “We keep 30 beers on draft.
We do ‘local flights,’ which are flights of beer from local breweries. We rotate through our different breweries, so you can sample a variety at once.” The Tap House’s staff of beer enthusiasts can tell you the stories behind many of the delicious craft beers available. “The only beer we never rotate is Guinness,” Calhoun says. “Other than that, we rotate our lineups of easy-drinking lagers and pilsners, IPAs, ciders, and dark beers such as stouts, porters, and ambers.” The Tap House offers another unique and tasty treat—sake cocktails. Whether you want to go mod with a saketini or cozy with an elderberry-based Victorian, a sake cocktail will surprise and delight your taste buds. There’s also a great selection of wines to enjoy. And then there’s the espresso bar and kombucha on tap. Plus, no café
SEPTEMBER 16, 2020
• 15
DINING OUT would be complete without offering a cuppa hot tea! Burgers and More In addition to drinks, The Tap House is known for its food menu, which includes traditional pub snacks as well as a long list of burgers. There’s the Exotic Burger, a combination of bison, wagyu, elk, and boar. “That would be the one I’d recommend,” Calhoun says. “It’s a half pound burger. It’s lean and tasty, not gamey.” And then there’s the Southern Burger, a quarter-pounder topped with pimento cheese, bacon, and tomato. Other burgers of note on the menu range from classic cheeseburgers and patty melts to a southwestern black-bean burger, and several tasty-looking chicken sandwiches are listed, too. When some people say “pub food,” they mean a dish of pretzels, but at The Tap House, that’s just the start. Their pub food includes local trout spread on toast, an Irish cheese plate (to complement the Guinness, of course), a hummus plate, and even something called a Frito pie, which turns out to be barbecue layered onto Fritos and topped with onions, mushrooms, cheese and sour cream. Mmm! Stay Awhile As well as attracting tourists, The Tap House has a regular St. Elmo clientele who appreciate the good fare and relaxed atmosphere. It’s a great place to bring your computer, enjoy an espresso, and work from home (away from home). There’s patio seating, so you can enjoy the ambience of the St. Elmo community as you people-watch or chat with a friend. And if you want to be more social, the long tables can seat up to 10 patrons, so instead 16 •
CHATTANOOGAPULSE.COM
of clustering in a small group, you may find yourself making new friends at The Tap House. Come on Wednesdays and you’ll find a lively game of trivia going on, too. “We’re kid-friendly and family friendly,” Calhoun says. “We don’t stay open late. The atmosphere is very laid-back. We want to be a gathering space, whether you’re a tourist wanting a snack and beer before heading up Lookout Mountain, or a neighbor who wants to sit and relax with a sake cocktail or beer.” Safety First With the pandemic still active, many of us are hesitant to go out much. The Tap House takes careful precautions by following all Chattanooga health and safety regulations. “Patrons wear masks until seated,” Calhoun says. “The staff wear masks at all times. Tables are spread out, and no more than 10 guests can sit at one table.” The Tap House 3800 St. Elmo Ave. Tuesday–Saturday 11:30 a.m.–9 p.m. Sunday: 11:30 a.m.–8 p.m. (423) 682-8234 taphousechatt.com
I asked what kind of family Amina wanted. She said, ‘A family like yours.’ That’s when I knew I had to adopt her. Denise, adopted 17-year-old Amina
LEARN ABOUT ADOPTING A TEEN YO U C A N ’ T I M AG I N E T H E R E WA R D
A D O P T U S K I D S .O R G SEPTEMBER 16, 2020
• 17
LOCAL POLITICS
Erskine Ogl Mayor Of C BY DALTON TEMPLE
you can Honor a Service Member with your Vote The Secretary of State’s Honor Vote Program allows Tennesseans to dedicate their vote in the upcoming election to a veteran or active duty member of the U.S. military. “As Americans, we have the right to select our leaders through free elections. Honor Vote is a small way that we can recognize and thank the men and women who fought for our rights and those who serve our county to protect them,” said Secretary of State Tre Hargett. Voters can choose to dedicate their vote to anyone currently serving in or a veteran of the U.S. Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard or Tennessee National Guard. Honor Vote program participants will receive a Voter Information Guide and an official Honor Vote button they can wear while casting their ballot. Honor Vote dedications are posted on the official Tennessee Honor Vote List and the Honor Vote Twitter account @tnhonorvote. Voters are encouraged to share their dedication on social media using the hashtag #GoVoteTN. For more information and to dedicate your vote, visit GoVoteTN.com/honor. 18 •
CHATTANOOGAPULSE.COM
T
his past Friday, after thoughtfu consideration and prayer with his wife Sheryl, City Councilman Erskine Ogles by announced his intentions to run fo Mayor of Chattanooga
Councilman Oglesby represents District 7 in Chattanooga which includes St. Elmo, Alton Park, East Lake, parts of Downtown. “For most of my adult life, I have been dedi cated to serving others, and these last four year serving the public of Chattanooga has brough many successes and opportunities for Chatta nooga to grow.” Stated Councilman Oglesby “I want to see Chattanooga be a place wher every citizen has the opportunity to develop to their fullest potential. I believe we can achiev the goals of equality and inclusion that are in grained in our civic culture.” “As we recover from the challenges that ou citizens are currently facing, the next 4 years o our city will be an important chapter that w have the opportunity to write. Chattanooga ha been blessed with many opportunities yet ther are many neighborhoods in our city that contin ue to struggle.” “As your next mayor I will focus on the issue
lesby Announces Bid For Chattanooga
ul e sor
7 n
irs ht ay. e o e n-
ur of e as e n-
es
that truly impact our residents’ everyday lives — ensuring a strong economy for all, increasing trust in our public safety, and a renewed focus on addressing homelessness throughout our city. We will expand access to affordable housing and tackle our city’s transportation and infrastructure needs all while being fiscally responsible to our citizens and the business community that makes Chattanooga a city of innovation and opportunity.” “I have the vision, passion and the necessary business experience to build a strong, innovative, diverse team to address the current, and future needs of Chattanooga.” Councilman Oglesby is an active community volunteer serving on the Executive Committee of the Southeast Tennessee Development District, and the boards of the: Chattanooga Girls Leadership Academy, YMCA of Metropolitan Chattanooga, Habitat for Humanities for Greater Chattanooga, Chattanooga Neighborhood Enterprises, Tivoli Foundation, Chattanooga Area Employment Consortium, Mark Making, Prison Prevention Ministries, and the Southeast Tennessee Health Consortium Committee. Councilman Oglesby is also the past chairman of the board of the Erlanger’s Community Health Centers and has served as Vice Chairman of the City of Chattanooga’s Pension Board.
He has previously served on the Creative Discovery Museum, WTCI-PBS Television, 100 Black Men of America, Bessie Smith Cultural Center and Metropolitan Ministries, and is a member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc, the Chattanooga Downtown Kiwanis and the Tennessee State University National Alumni Association. Councilman Oglesby is married to Sheryl Oglesby, and together they have their son Ryan, and daughter Dominique, 3 grandsons, and a great granddaughter. They are members of Resurrected Reformed Baptist Church. “I will be a Mayor that prioritizes the creation of a comprehensive plan that will grow our neighborhoods while closing the economic divide that currently exist in our city, stated Councilman Oglesby. “In the coming months, I plan to meet with citizens groups and neighborhood associations across our City.”
SEPTEMBER 16, 2020
• 19
20 •
CHATTANOOGAPULSE.COM
LOCAL HISTORY
Helping To Preserve Chattanooga’s History BY MEAGAN JOLLEY
T
he future of a nine-acre historic property near Brown’s Ferry, whose history stretches back to before the founding of the City of Chattanooga, is secure, thanks to its purchase by the American Battlefield Trust. Earlier efforts to protect Brown’s Tavern were ultimately unsuccessful, but the Trust was able to muster donor support and matching grants from the federal American Battlefield Protection Program and the Tennessee Historical Commission’s Civil War Sites Preservation Fund to secure the site. The Trust anticipates transferring the land and historic structure, as well as two other properties previously purchased at Brown’s Ferry, to National Park Partners, the acclaimed friends group dedicated to safeguarding and promoting the six units of Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park. “The American Battlefield Trust is dedicated to the protection of hallowed ground,” said organization President James Lighthizer. “But protecting properties like this one, whose significance
stretches across multiple eras and narratives, is particularly sweet.” After its defeat at the Battle of Chickamauga in September 1863, the Union Army of the Cumberland was trapped and besieged in Chattanooga, dependent on a single, fragile supply line. The October 27 Battle of Brown’s Ferry (or Wauhatchie) was fought for one reason: Food. In a bold plan to open a more direct supply line, Union troops used bridge pontoons to float past Confederate guards on Lookout Mountain and along the banks of the Tennessee River, putting in at Brown’s Ferry on the far west bank. Having established a bridgehead, these Federals drove back opposing forces in sharp fighting. The resulting “Cracker Line” facilitated the men, food and supplies necessary for November’s Federal assaults on LookSEPTEMBER 16, 2020
• 21
LOCAL HISTORY
“
Acquisition by the Trust is not the final step in the preservation journey for Brown’s Tavern; the national organization has made arrangements to transfer it to National Park Partners, knowing that this outstanding regional group is ideally positioned to steward the site.
out Mountain and Missionary Ridge. But the property’s significance long precedes the Civil War. The original Brown’s Tavern, a log-construction building dating to 1803 still stands on the site. It was operated by Cherokee businessman John Brown, who owned 640-acres, including the ferry and the tavern that took his name. Brown served as a private in Col. Gideon Morgan’s command of Cherokees who fought for the United States in the War of 1812. Brown operated the tavern until 1819, then spent a decade living elsewhere before returning in 1830. The family was forced to leave their home in 1838, as a part of the Cherokee Removal in Chattanooga, a phase of the Trail of Tears, although they later received special federal permission to return to their home. In recognition of this significance, Brown’s Tavern is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is included as a stop on the Trail of Tears National Historic Trail.
22 •
CHATTANOOGAPULSE.COM
“Tennessee’s history is rich and multilayered,” said State Historic Preservation Officer Patrick McIntyre, who serves as executive director of the Tennessee Historical Commission. “It is an honor to have played a role in ensuring that this special place will stand for generations to come, so that our children and grandchildren can feel a tangible connection to these important moments in our past.” The purchase of Brown’s Tavern was a fully cooperative effort. The Trust was able to secure matching grants from the federal American Battlefield Protection Program, administered by the National Park Service, and the Tennessee Civil War Sites Preservation Fund, administered by the Tennessee Historical Commission/Tennessee Wars Commission, which were leveraged against private donations from Trust members. A conservation easement donated by the Trust and held by the Tennessee Historical Commission will ensure that the
property is protected in perpetuity. Earlier efforts to secure a permanent preservation status for the property were ultimately unsuccessful. In the wake of that attempt, local businessman Bill Chapin, Chairman of See Rock City Inc.—which owns one of America’s iconic travel attractions, Rock City Gardens, high atop Lookout Mountain, Ga., as well as the Battles for Chattanooga museum located across the street from Point Park in Lookout Mountain, Tenn.—purchased the site to safeguard it in the short term. “I am honored to have played a role, even if relatively brief, in the long history of Brown’s Tavern, the oldest structure in Hamilton County,” said Chapin, the 2019 recipient of the Southeast Tourism Society’s Spirit of STS Award. “All residents of Chattanooga, Hamilton County and Tennessee, plus American history enthusiasts, should be pleased to know that this incredible piece of American history will face no further threats.” Acquisition by the Trust is not the final step in the preservation journey for Brown’s Tavern; the national organization has made arrangements to transfer it to National Park Partners, knowing that this outstanding regional group is ideally positioned to steward the site. The Trust anticipates that transfer— which will also include 15 acres on two properties elsewhere at Brown’s Ferry— to occur this autumn. National Park Partners exists to champion conservation of the natural, historic, and cultural resources of all six units
of Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park: Chickamauga Battlefield, Lookout Mountain Battlefield, Missionary Ridge, Moccasin Bend National Archeological District, Orchard Knob and Signal Point. “National Park Partners stands ready to protect, interpret and steward this remarkable property,” said the organization’s executive director, Tricia K. Mims. “Being entrusted with preserving the complex history of Brown’s Tavern and surrounding land for many years to come is truly an honor.” The American Battlefield Trust has protected a total of 119 acres associated with the Battles for Chattanooga, inclusive of the Brown’s Tavern property. Fifty-one of those acres are tied to the Battle of Brown’s Ferry; other properties are relevant to the fighting for Tunnel Hill during the Battle of Missionary Ridge. The Trust is currently raising funds to secure an additional parcel at Missionary Ridge—the site where, on November 25, 1863, 17-year-old Ohio drummer boy John Kountz received the Medal of Honor for his heroic actions. The American Battlefield Trust is dedicated to preserving America’s hallowed battlegrounds and educating the public about what happened there and why it matters today. The nonprofit, nonpartisan organization has protected more than 53,000 acres associated with the Revolutionary War, War of 1812, and Civil War. You can learn more by visiting www. battlefields.org.
SEPTEMBER 16, 2020
• 23
EDUCATION
UTC Is Helping To Teach The Teachers BY SHAWN RYAN
S
tanding in front of a class of students and keeping them engaged and interested and perhaps even entertained can be tough in the best of circumstances. Right now isn’t the best of circumstances.
Many classes at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga are online this semester, and many faculty members haven’t taught by that method before. It’s not an easy assignment. In the Gary W. Rollins College of Business, Sarah Canatsey helps teach the teachers. Her exact title is “instructional developer,” but what it means in down-to-earth terms is that she shows faculty members how to produce good videos, podcasts and PowerPoint presentations on whatever subject they’re teaching. She also guides professors on how to livestream, teaching a class in real time, without seeming stodgy or uncertain or, worst of all, boring. “It’s better if you’re recording your video and you know it’s recorded well and you know it’s recorded in a way that students can go back and look at it,” she explained. To help that happen, the College of
24 •
CHATTANOOGAPULSE.COM
Business built a small recording studio on the fourth floor of Fletcher Hall during its renovation. “We offer a lot of online classes and didn’t have a dedicated space for faculty to really come in and make good, quality videos. The idea is to give our faculty a way to make better instructional videos,” said Canatsey, who has a background in studio work, multimedia programs and setting up technology for live theater performances. College of Business Dean Robert Dooley said Canatsey’s expertise is “a tremendous resource for the faculty.” “Sarah was instrumental in helping the faculty transition to all online in the spring at the beginning of COVID and in preparing for this fall,” he said. “The new studio in the college, under Sarah’s direction, provides an additional resource for faculty to develop outstanding online courses and content to augment traditional classroom
instruction.” The studio is decked out with technology. It has a video camera, audio mixing board, microphones, lighting, software, playback speakers, computer and what’s known as a lightboard, a piece of framed Plexiglas that professors can write on the same way they use a blackboard or whiteboard in the classroom. During editing, the image is flipped horizontally so students can read it as they would in class. The studio can record videos projected on a screen for classes when students are actually in the room. It can stream a professor’s live lecture into the classroom, onto a tablet such as an iPad or through a computer. Anything that’s recorded in the studio, live or not, will be archived so students can watch the lesson whenever they need. Part of her job, too, is to teach the finer points of making a video, including how to
plan it out before actual recording starts, Canatsey said. “There are a lot of things that go on when you’re creating a video,” she said. “Like pre-planning so you’re not spending eight hours in post-production editing because you didn’t plan it out well. “There’s even educational pieces on how long a video should be. There’s an entire set of research, multimedia principles, we have found that, for novice learners, are helpful and not helpful when you’re putting together multimedia and educational pieces.” At this point, Canatsey hasn’t contacted all the College of Business faculty to let them know the studio is ready for use because she’s still getting all the technology in placed and ready to go. “I haven’t sent out my ‘hype’ video to folks,” she said, laughing. “That’s on my to-do list today.”
SEPTEMBER 16, 2020
• 25
EPB BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
Mountain View Hand Car Wash & Detail Shop BY JENN WEBSTER
I
f you live on Lookout Mountain, St. Elmo, South Side or Alton Park, consider getting your car washed and detailed at Mountain View Car Wash & Detail Center. Located conveniently at 3701 Alton Park Boulevard, Mountain View offers expert washing and detailing services to help you maintain the value and beauty of your automobile. 26 •
CHATTANOOGAPULSE.COM
“We offer micro fiber towel techniques, hot water extraction/steam cleaning methods, head light restoration, waxing, buffing the exterior to restore the original shine and luster, scratch removal, and professional ozone treatment to remove unwanted odors,” says owner Steve Talley. “Our vision is to continue to provide topnotch professional detail services to our customers in the surrounding communities, using highly trained individuals from these communities to help boost our local economy while providing jobs to those most in need.” Many Chattanoogans, explains Talley, miss out on the merits of professional auto cleaning, choosing to use an automated car wash instead. But such treatment doesn’t last as long, and may even leave scratches on your vehicle. “A hand wash lasts longer and protects your car better,” Talley says. “We use specialty products to care for our customer’s cars. In fact, our work is so distinctive that when you take your car in for sale or trade, dealerships will know we’ve worked on your car.” That special touch is what makes Mountain View the detailer of choice for Mountain View Chevy and Mountain View Ford, Talley adds. A Historic Neighborhood One of the best parts about Mountain View is the location, Talley explains. It’s a crossroads between neighborhoods; Chattanoogans from many areas can meet and get to know each other. Talley enjoys it when res-
idents from places as distinct as Alton Park and Lookout Mountain cross paths and build friendships at his business. As a minority-owned small business built on the historic site of the National Alliance of Postal Employees, where 35 Black railway clerks once met to form a union to preserve their jobs, “the building we operate from is a memorialized place of historical significance to Blacks, Federal workers, postal carriers, and all Americans,” Talley says. It’s also a great place to work. Mountain View is hiring, Talley says, and workers can expect a good work environment and a good wage, as well as the advantages of working with a diverse clientele. “We are really visible; people see our work,” he says. “Our employees are motivated by the attention they are given from passers-by, the compliments. We pay market rates for skilled detailers and installers. Our knowledgeable customers enjoy good service and tip well.” Special Deals for Shiny Cars Take advantage of these specials from Mountain View Car Wash & Detail Center. • Headlight restoration: Starting $99 • Interior detail: $99 • Express detail with hand wash and polish: $99 • Seniors and veterans: 10% off Mountain View Hand Car Wash & Detail Shop 3701 Alton Park Blvd (423) 710-1332 facebook.com/mtnviewcarwash
Local Business Spotlight is proudly supported by EPB and The Pulse. SEPTEMBER 16, 2020
• 27
WHEN YOU’RE BUZZED,YOU GET IDEAS. LIKE ASKING EVERYONE INSIDE THE TACO TRUCK WHAT DRIVING AROUND IN A KITCHEN IS LIKE AND THEN ORDERING 22 TACOS WITH EXTRA GUACAMOLE AND ALL THE CHEESE FOR EVERY DRUNK PERSON IN LINE. BAD IDEA FOR YOUR WALLET, BUT NOT AS BAD AS DRIVING HOME BUZZED.
