FRED LONBERG-HOLM • COOPER MCCORMICK • THE REVENANT
JANUARY 28, 2016
CHATTANOOGA'S WEEKLY ALTERNATIVE
HOMEGROWN HEROES
SUBTERRANEAN STALWARTS BLOOD, SWEAT AND GLORY WITH THE CLIFF/CAVE RESCUERS
Chattanooga’s Classic Hits
...With A Softer Side
2 • THE PULSE • JANUARY 28, 2016 • CHATTANOOGAPULSE.COM
Contents
CHATTANOOGA'S WEEKLY ALTERNATIVE
EDITORIAL
Managing Editor Gary Poole Editorial Assistant Brooke Dorn
January 28, 2016 Volume 13, Issue 4
Music Editor Marc T. Michael Film Editor John DeVore Contributors David Traver Adolphus • Thom Benson Rob Brezsny • Patrick Filbin Matt Jones • Louis Lee • Kelly Lockhart Mike McJunkin • Beth Miller • Ernie Paik Rick Pimental-Habib • Robin Ford Wallace Editorial Interns Rebekah Jones • Ja'Lissa Little
Features
Cartoonists Max Cannon • Rob Rogers Jen Sorenson • Tom Tomorrow
4 BEGINNINGS: City lays out plans for the future of light rail in the region.
Cover Photo B
4 THE LIST: Facebook uber alles.
FOUNDED 2003 BY ZACHARY COOPER & MICHAEL KULL
7 AIR BAG: Detroit is making actual automobiles again, ones people want.
ADVERTISING
Director of Sales Mike Baskin Account Executives Chee Chee Brown • Robyn Graves Linda Hisey • Rick Leavell Stacey Tyler • Logan Vandergriff
CONTACT
Offices 1305 Carter St., Chattanooga, TN 37402 Phone 423.265.9494 Website chattanoogapulse.com Email info@chattanoogapulse.com BREWER MEDIA GROUP Publisher & President Jim Brewer II THE FINE PRINT: The Pulse is published weekly by Brewer Media and is distributed throughout the city of Chattanooga and surrounding communities. The Pulse covers a broad range of topics concentrating on music, the arts, entertainment, culture and local news. The Pulse is available free of charge, limited to one copy per reader. No person without written permission from the publisher may take more than one copy per weekly issue. The Pulse may be distributed only by authorized distributors. Contents Copyright © 2016 by Brewer Media. All rights reserved.
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Blood, Sweat and Glory
12 MUSIC CALENDAR
Anybody want to be a hero? If so, Brad Tipton would love to meet you. Tipton is captain of the Cliff/Cave Unit of the ChattanoogaHamilton County Rescue Service, which he describes as the best qualified and most talented rescue team in North America.
10
Lonberg-Holm: As Classical as Jazz
In the fertile creative music grounds of Chicago, the versatile, overachieving cellist and composer Fred Lonberg-Holm thrives with the ability to stay limber, traversing jazz, classical, rock, pop and the avant-garde.
16
Jedis, Art and Cooper McCormick
The Luminara Collection quietly opened its doors in November bringing with it a unique selection of art and craftsmanship— colorful, tiny crocheted octopi, Sharpie drawn sketches, and ethereal paintings that take onlookers to otherworldly places.
14 REVIEWS: Drumming Bird delivers on new EP, Barclay sings with assurance. 15 MIXOLOGY: The health benefits of grapefruit infused cocktails. 18 ARTS CALENDAR 20 CONSIDER THIS 20 SCREEN: Alejandro G. Iñárritu’s The Revenant proves worthwhile. 22 JONESIN’ CROSSWORD 22 FREE WILL ASTROLOGY 23 SUSHI & BISCUITS: No Bones About It: It’s All About The Marrow.
SPECIAL COMEDY ENGAGEMENT! Chattanooga’s Premier Comedy Club 1400 Market Street Chattanooga, TN Tickets: (423) 629-2233 thecomedycatch.com
SATURDAY NIGHT LIVE LEGEND
A MAN OF MANY CHARACTERS WILL KEEP YOU LAUGHING NONSTOP CHATTANOOGAPULSE.COM • JANUARY 28, 2016 • THE PULSE • 3
NEWS • VIEWS • RANTS • RAVES
BEGINNINGS
UPDATES » CHATTANOOGAPULSE.COM FACEBOOK/CHATTANOOGAPULSE EMAIL LOVE LETTERS, ADVICE & TRASH TALK TO INFO@CHATTANOOGAPULSE.COM
Will We Get Choo Chooing Again? City lays out plans for the future of light rail in the region—and beyond Around 150 citizens came out to Around the turn of the last century, the Chattanooga Choo Choo this Chattanooga was known as being a past Thursday night. It was obvirail hub for interstate commerce as ously more than organizers exwell as passenger rail service. And pected, because there there were also plenty weren’t enough chairs. of streetcar lines conBut no one seemed necting downtown to mind. They were to what were then the outlying areas of there to learn what LOUIS LEE St. Elmo, Lookout had come of the ideas Mountain, Signal Mountain and they shared last October in this East Lake. same room, ideas about the future Personal motorcars all but killed of passenger rail in Chattanooga. off all the passenger rail service in The City of Chattanooga presenttown except the Incline that goes ed three options, or alternatives, to from St. Elmo to Point Park a mile discuss concerning bringing light or so away and almost straight up. rail service back to the Scenic City.
NEWS
4 • THE PULSE • JANUARY 28, 2016 • CHATTANOOGAPULSE.COM
Road crews paved over streetcar rails to make extra lanes for automobiles, sweeping away one of the things that made Chattanooga unique by “progress.” Now there is a move afoot to return to the days of catching a streetcar from the suburbs to downtown or a light rail train from downtown to Enterprise Park. Utilizing a federal grant, the city has been researching the options available and determining the feasibility of each. The results of the study, along with public input from last October has now been narrowed down to three options. “The alternatives are built on three basic strategies,” explains Chattanooga Department of Transportation’s Blythe Bailey. “The premise of the grant was to maximize utilization of our existing infrastructure. That’s one strategy.” This would involve using an abandoned rail line from the Choo Choo out to a proposed “Park & Ride” location to be built near the Hwy 153 / Bonny Oaks area. “It was also a very essential part of the grant to make sure that you build a great community around a great transportation system,” says Bailey. To that end, Alternative 2 is centered around economic development. This one includes a streetcar system that serves UTC, Erlanger Medical Center, and the downtown businesses, while connecting to a light rail system that goes out to the Park & Ride and extends out to the Enterprise South Industrial Park. The third alternative involves mobility with the main goal being to reduce congestion and
traffic on the roadways. A robust streetcar network downtown would connect with the light rail to the Park & Ride and also to a commuter bus line that would also service the airport and Enterprise South. According to polls taken since the October meeting, Alternative 1 (Maximum Infrastructure Reuse) seems to pique more interest scoring high on support, proper placement of stations, and potential rider volume. Yet Bailey points out that it’s not fair to strictly separate these options. “They all have elements of each other. That means that just because something is in one alternative doesn’t mean it’s not present in another.” He concedes that the first option would be the least expensive initially and would be quickest to implement, but also emphasizes the fact that decisions made now could affect life in the Scenic City for many decades to come. The city is very keen to get as much input on this project as possible. If you’d like to know more, visit their website at chattanooga.gov/rail or text “rail” to 97779.
The List
EdiToon
I Facebook, You Facebook, We All Facebook
by Rob Rogers
Facebook is the largest online social network in the world. If you haven’t heard of it, we welcome you to Planet Earth and hope you come in peace. Founded in 2004, within four years they had 100 million users. Just five years later, they had surpassed a billion users.
If It's January, It Must Be Chattacon For the past four decades, fans of science fiction, fantasy, comics, gaming, art and music have come to the Scenic City for the annual gathering known as ChattaCon. Starting this Friday, nearly a thousand fans will descend upon the Chattanooga Choo Choo for three days of fun and entertainment. New York Times bestselling author William C. Dietz headlines the convention, along
with award-winning illustrator Scott Grimando, popular “Monster Hunter International” author Larry Correia, and fan-favorite writer Wendy Webb as the “Toastmistress”. Among the many events scheduled for the weekend are Robot Battles, the Deep Space Lounge Show with Luminous Web, flaming entertainment and fiery feats of derring-do from The Chattanooga
IN THIS ISSUE
Robin Ford Wallace Regular contributor Robin Ford Wallace has writen on a wide variety of subjects for The Pulse: everything from home gardening and local hiking to animal welfare and this week's cover story on a local rescue group. A journalist, avid gardener, and fierce crusader for the
Fire Cabaret, music performances from The Molly Maguires, and a special screening of the independent horror film “Attack of the Morningside Monster”. There’s also a full dealers room with all sorts of interesting things to buy, a curated art show with the latest ion fantasy and science-fiction art, and a round-the-clock consuite with lots of free refreshments and beverages. Admission is $50 for the entire weekend, which is one of the best bangs for the entertainment buck around town. — Kelly Lockhart
Patrick Filbin truth, she enjoys bragging she is to the extension agent what Woodward was to Nixon. Her self-described Revolutionary Pinko Commie Theory of Horticulture—that gardening is something one does, not something one buys—is manifested ad infinitum in her “Bob’s Little Acre, a gardening column. Sort of.” The column, which has appeared in publications in Tennessee, Georgia and Alabama, can be found online.
Music writer and album reviewer Patrick Filbin is a newcomer to The Pulse family of writers. Patrick is a freelance writer based here in Chattanooga. Originally from Chicago, he has lived in Nashville, Atlanta and New York City and plans
on living in a van to keep rent expenses down. He usually writes about music, film and sports and enjoys conversations about all of the above, preferably over a beer. He is also available for family parties, get-togethers around a fire and wishes he put more thought into his abbreviated bio. Most of his other work can be found by a Google search and most Bing searches. You can also follow him on Twitter @PatrickFilbin
And if you bought in on the IPO when they went public, could you loan us a few bucks? We have this great idea for a new polka app and...oh, never mind. The numbers behind Facebook are staggering, as compiled by our friends at the Statistic Brain Research Institute: • Total number of monthly active Facebook users: 1,440,000,000 • Total number of mobile Facebook users: 874,000,000 • Increase in Facebook users from 2014 to 2015: 12% • Total number of minutes spent on Facebook each month: 640,000,000 • Percent of all Facebook users who log on in any given day: 48% • Average time spent on Facebook per visit: 18 minutes • Total number of Facebook pages: 74,200,000 Of course, the only page you really need to read is ours (facebook. com/chattanoogapulse). Oh, and George Takei is pretty fun to follow, too. Source: statisticbrain.com/facebookstatistics/
CHATTANOOGAPULSE.COM • JANUARY 28, 2016 • THE PULSE • 5
You’re Invited To Chattacon 41
January 29-31 at the Historic Chattanooga Choo Choo Author Guest of Honor: William “Bill” C. Dietz • Special Guest: Larry Correia Artist Guest of Honor: Scott Grimando • Toastmistress: Wendy Webb Panels, Workshops, Gaming, Live Concerts, Robot Battles, Fantastic Art Show & Dealers Room, 24-hour Consuite & more! $50 at the door, good for all three days • For more information: www.chattacon.org
IT’S TIME FOR
the only party under Chattanooga returns! It’s an unforgettable night of music, food, drinks and the legendary “Smash n’ Grab” art gallery.
24 Years of Local Foods & Certified Green Practices Solar, & Bicycle Friendly Business 423.265.1212 www.212MARKET.com 6 • THE PULSE • JANUARY 28, 2016 • CHATTANOOGAPULSE.COM
Saturday / February 20 / 8pm Get tickets now at www.huntermuseum.org or call (423) 752.2945 #HUNTERUNDERGROUND
212 Market Street Chattanooga, TN
sponsored by
with additional support from Maycreate and EPB Fiberoptics
COLUMN AIR BAG
The Return of “The Car” Detroit is making actual automobiles again. Really. You may not thought have about it, but “the car” has been disappearing. Buyers, particularly people with young DAVID TRAVER families, preADOLPHUS fer small SUVs and crossovers. A lot. And crossovers aren’t cars. A car...well, you know what a car is. It doesn’t sit extra high and looks like it can do light off-roading that it can’t actually do. It uses its space to, you know, hold people and by being closer to the ground, is inherently better to drive. Families can’t be blamed for loving the crossovers, though. A couple extra inches of height is nice when you’re moving car seats and so, so many bags of groceries. As people who started out in crossovers have older kids, they buy larger ones; then, when they have some disposable income, move into the luxury SUVs, a cycle which is swiftly depleting our planet’s resources of actual cars. This winter, though, hope is returning for car lovers, from some of Amer-
“Both Lincoln and Buick, companies desperately trying to reinvent themselves, have decided that to stand out as carmakers maybe cars are the answer.” ica’s oldest nameplates. Both Lincoln and Buick, companies desperately trying to reinvent themselves, have decided that to stand out as carmakers maybe cars are the answer. Lincoln’s new car is arguably more significant, as it resurrects the Continental name for a range-topping sedan, confirmed as a 2017 production model. It’s a very modern design and doesn’t really look like anything else, which alone is great news. It’s insanely well detailed, inside and out, and could be a competitor for anything in the world. It’ll knock the huge Navigator (which is based on
the Ford F-150 truck) off the top of the Lincoln line and become the sole, true American luxury automobile. In the absence of credible competition from Cadillac, Buick’s 2017 LaCrosse will be the Continental’s stiffest competition. It’s sophisticated and nice looking, although it’s not proportioned as nicely as the Continental. No, what’s really exciting is the Avista coupe. For now, Avista is a concept car, but it’s based on the same Alpha platform that yields the Camaro and Cadillac CTS; like them, it’s rear wheel drive. Unlike anything out of Buick in the last 45 years, it’s absolutely amazing. The interior is pure concept car, but the exterior, well, the consensus is that it won the Detroit Auto Show earlier this month. It’s got a brutish elegance that’s usually reserved for Aston-Martin and while there are hints in the detailing that need to be addressed, it doesn’t owe anything to any other car. It’s a masterpiece. Buick has been very clear in the past about the concept cars it won’t build. They’ve been very cagey about the Avista (which Buick fans are hoping becomes a new Gran Sport), stating
that they have the capability to build it. Buick Vice President Duncan Aldred told Automobile Magazine that design and technological elements showcased on the Avista would be turning up on new Buicks in the next two or three years, “And from there, we wait and see what happens.” One car doesn’t mean anything. Two cars is a coincidence. But three? Three cars is a movement. We need to support these brave makers-of-cars in any way we can. The Lincoln is probably large enough for most needs, and wouldn’t your customers and/or clients be impressed to see you unloading buckets of paint/ German Shepherds/toilet seats/trays of muffins from one? If you have any reason at all to get somewhere on time—like a job or picking up kids, then a 400hp Buick is the ideal conveyance for you. There was a time when almost everyone had a car, and used it for everything. That’s what they’re for. Cars are better than crossovers, unless you actually need a Jeep, in which case it had better be a Rubicon. These are what we’re meant to be driving, Get on with it. David Traver Adolphus is a freelance automotive researcher who recently quit his full time job writing about old cars to pursue his lifelong dream of writing about old AND new cars. He welcomes the inevitable and probably richly deserved kvetching about Air Bag and anything else on Twitter as @proscriptus.
ALL NEW. ALL FOR YOU.
ChattanoogaHasCars.com THE TENNESSEE VALLEY’S MOST POWERFUL AUTOMOTIVE SHOPPING TOOL CHATTANOOGAPULSE.COM • JANUARY 28, 2016 • THE PULSE • 7
COVER STORY
Blood, Sweat and Glory An inside look at Chattanooga-Hamilton County Rescue Service’s Cave/Cliff Unit by Robin Ford Wallace, Pulse contributor.
A
nybody want to be a hero? If so, Brad Tipton would love to meet you. Tipton is captain of the Cliff/Cave Unit of the Chattanooga-Hamilton County Rescue Service (CHCRS), which he describes as the best qualified and most talented rescue team in North America, one called in whenever somebody’s in trouble and nobody knows how to get them out. “Rescue’s always been the unit that does the stuff that nobody else does,” he said. This includes, but is not limited to, rescuing people trapped underwater, lying broken at the bottom of cliffs, buried alive or stranded in flooded caves. There has been at least one instance of raising from the dead. Seriously, Tipton cannot talk about his team without using the word “miracle.” Now Tipton’s in the market for new heroes, and he goes from civic group to outdoor club presenting CHCRS’s history of derring-do and making his pitch. “We’re always actively recruiting, always looking for strong young folks, but we’ll even take the strong old folks,” he said. If you’re thinking of signing up, bear in mind that the pay sucks: $0. And working conditions? If Tipton says “miracle” a lot, he gets equal mileage out of “misery” and “suffer.” Still, the fact remains there’s a certain cachet to this hero biz. Why else would television keep staging reenactments of the rescue team’s more spectacular successes? Here’s a quote combining the two elements, where blood, sweat and tears meet glory in one sentence: “It was a very life-changing moment when you realized that someone you fully expected to not survive did, and it was because of the efforts of all these people who just showed up unpaid to freeze and suffer.” That’s Tipton describing the first really sensational rescue he participated in after joining
8 • THE PULSE • JANUARY 28, 2016 • CHATTANOOGAPULSE.COM
CHCRS as a 19-year-old seeking adventure, that of a construction worker buried alive in December 1998. Squad Captain Brad Tipton with a packaged patient at North Chickamauga Gorge. “Initially, we thought we were going out there to dig up a dead “It was a miserable, miserable long night,” guy,” said Tipton. said Tipton. “But to see a guy you expected to Darby Patrick, 26, had been laying sewer pipe pull out as a corpse come out alive was absolutely on Highway 58 when the trench collapsed, buryincredible.” Hooked, Tipton stayed on to become ing him beneath what newspapers reported as captain of the team in 2011. five, six, and 15 feet of dirt, respectively. (Tipton, Somewhere along the line he also became the who was there, pegged it at 20.) However many unofficial CHCRS historian, compiling decades’ feet, it was enough to crush Patrick’s internal worth of records into a concise presentation which organs and bones, necessitating multiple later he shares here with The Pulse. surgeries, including the amputation of one leg. The Chattanooga Hamilton County Rescue But it didn’t quite kill him, because he was Service was originally formed as a volunteer able to breathe through a sewer pipe. “By sticking “Life-Saving Squad” sponsored by the American his head in that pipe, he saved his own life,” said Red Cross in 1937, when, as Tipton noted: “You Tipton. didn’t have ambulance services, you didn’t have Firefighters tried to dig Patrick out but had to fire services, you didn’t have basic rescue servicstop when their efforts led to another, deeper es, water rescue services, none of those things.” cave-in. “So they called us,” he said. So there was a gap and the volunteers— “BasiEnter Chattanooga-Hamilton County Rescue. cally, it was a group of guys who went out and Slowly, methodically, the rescuers excavated first got medically trained to respond to accidents Patrick’s head, then, inch by inch, the rest of him, and medical calls in the backs of their own vemeanwhile treating his wounds, shock and hypohicles”—leapt eagerly in to fill it, providing not thermia in situ, finally airlifting him to Erlanger at only rudimentary ambulance service but river 5 a.m. The whole operation took over 15 hours in rescue and supplemental firefighting as needed. single-digit temperatures. Back then, much of Chattanooga was still wooden
“That’s our group in a nutshell: They’ll do anything you ask them to. It doesn’t matter how miserable it is. When you call on them, they show up.” buildings from the 19th century and fires would consume entire blocks. In fact, the guys found way too many hero opportunities to suit their sponsor. “The American Red Cross got a little concerned about their liability, and at some point during the 1950s, they dropped us,” said Tipton. The rescuers heroed along for a few years unsponsored, but then came the Cold War and with it a federal government anxious to protect its citizens from the new and terrible threat of nuclear attack. In 1959, the ex-Red Cross squad became the Civil Defense Rescue Service. With homeowners digging bomb shelters in their backyards and kids learning to “duck and cover” at school, those were anxious years for America—but golden ones for the rescuers. Thanks to Civil Defense funding, they finally had vehicles and gear they didn’t have to buy with their own money. Yes, they spent time preparing their patch of America for World War II, among other duties designating area caves as bomb shelters and stocking them with goodies for the Holocaust. “You can see all the fallout supplies in Sequoyah still, to this day,” said Tipton, referring to Sequoyah Cave in Valley Head, Ala. But they also expanded rescue operations dramatically. “From ’59 all the way up into the ‘90s, Chattanooga-Hamilton County Rescue was the primary source of emergency vehicle operations, dive team operations, marine rescue and underwater rescue,” said Tipton. The Civil Defense Administration even bestowed upon the squad the first Hurst hydraulic extrication tools—the “Jaws of Life” —in Tennessee, making it possibly the most advanced car wreck rescue unit in the state. Civil Defense wound down eventually and CHCRS became an independent nonprofit in 1965, funded entirely by the citizens of Hamilton County. “As the fire departments and the ambulance services and all of the Chattanooga-Hamilton County emergency services became better funded, we became less of a primary response unit and more of a support-servicetype unit,” said Tipton. Still, whenever something big arose, an ice storm or a multi-car pileup, CHCRS has been all over it. The Chattanooga area is cave country and CHCRS had always performed cave rescues as needed, its first stab an unsuccessful 1947 multi-day search for teenagers presumed lost in Nickajack Cave, who were later
found alive and well in New York. But CHCRS’s Cave/Cliff Unit wasn’t christened until the 1960s, just in time to respond to what Tipton calls “one of the most significant cave rescues in history,” the Howard’s Waterfall Cave Disaster in 1966. Gas from a filling station had leaked into the cave in Trenton, Ga., and was ignited by open-flame carbide lamps used by Boy Scouts exploring it, causing an explosion fierce enough to burn their clothes off. The Scouts were trapped but they survived; their guide and two other adults who plunged into the poison air of the cave to rescue them did not. “The guys never took into consideration the possibility that they could be overcome by CO2 and die,” said Tipton. It was a bitter lesson, and not the last. In a rescue at Megawell Cave, CHCRS medic Andy Voss provides care to a patient during a rescue at Pryor Spring Cave in says Tipton, not only did rope anchors fail, 2008. The patient suffered a severe pelvic fracture and was lucky to survive the 50-foot fall. endangering rescuers rappelling to the scene, dog arrived at the top of a pit dead, throttled by the but smoke from a fire built by rescuers rope they’d pulled him up with, they squeezed out outside the cave was sucked into it, almost smothera happy ending after all with CPR and what Tipton ing those inside. The takeaway? “You have to control dubbed “mouth-to-snout resuscitation.” your scene,” said Tipton. “We learned hard lessons in Tipton credits much of the team’s success to its the early days that we applied to later rescues, and we remarkable medical contingent, which includes became a better team because of it.” volunteer trauma nurses, paramedics, EMTS – and They became not just a better team but one with preeminent wilderness medicine expert, Dr. David a reputation. When a caver broke her leg miles into Wharton. Lechuguilla Cave in Carlsbad Caverns National Park And he chalks some of it up to iconic past leaders in New Mexico, they were called in to help with the Buddy Lane and Dennis Curry, who helped make the four-day ordeal of hauling her out. “It was the longest, team what it is today. deepest, and most remote cave rescue in United But mostly, he says, it’s a matter of pure, rugged States history,” said Tipton. volunteerism. “That’s our group in a nutshell: They’ll In Alabama, they floated a 240-pound injured man do anything you ask them to do,” he said. “It doesn’t through 20-inch cave passageways, some of which they matter how miserable it is. When you call on them, had just blasted into existence, giving him a straw to they show up.” breathe through because at times most of him was Tipton worries that this spirit, the volunteerism and underwater. the outdoorsiness—he didn’t use the word “heroism” And in Tennessee, they pulled off what became —is dying out. known as the “Nickajack Miracle,” convincing TVA Anybody out there like to prove him wrong? to lower Nickajack Lake enough that they could Prospective heroes—or for that matter, donors—are locate and rescue a stranded diver long given up for invited to visit the Chattanooga-Hamilton County dead in Nickajack Cave. Rescue Service website, chcrs.org. They got good at miracles. Once when a rescued CHATTANOOGAPULSE.COM • JANUARY 28, 2016 • THE PULSE • 9
OUTLAW COUNTRY
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He’s an actor, a poet, an unrivaled rock icon—he’s the one-and-only Art Garfunkel…and he’s coming to town. In 1963, two men changed the face of music in a way in which no one else had before. Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel came together and created a folk/rock duo that was a force to be reckoned with. No one will ever forget classics such as “The Sound of Silence”, “The Boxer”, and the (in)famous “Mrs. Robinson.” Fast-forward to today, and Garfunkel has hardly been idle, having released twelve solo albums and written numerous breakout hits including “I Only Have Eyes For You”, “Rag Doll”, and “All I Know” since parting ways with Simon in 1970. In 2003, Garfunkel received a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Grammy’s and he hasn’t slowed down
since. Over the past three years, Garfunkel has toured the world almost non-stop. Thankfully, he has made his way back to the South. This Saturday at 8 p.m., Garfunkel will grace the Tivoli stage and perform some classic hits from Simon & Garfunkel along with a wealth of his solo music. Whether you’re on a first date, a friends’ night out, or just want a night out on your own to remember one of the greats, this show is for you. Like he once said not so long ago, “If you need a friend, I’m sailing right behind / Like a bridge over troubled water, I will ease your mind.” Get up close and personal with a man of many words who will “ease your mind” with an evening full of nostalgia and effortless talent. — Rebekah Jones
THU1.28
FRI1.29
SAT1.30
MARITAL MUSIC
PARTY TIME!
GUITAR HEROES
Drakeford
Matt Stephens Project
VirtU & OlsoL
Husband and wife songwriter duo that proves those that sing together, stay together. 8 p.m. The Social 1110 Market St. publichousechattanooga.com
The self-styled "Ultimate Party Band", this talented fivesome plays nearly everything under the sun. 9 p.m. Revelry Room 41 East 14th St. revelryroom.com
Duo project of Colonel Bruce Hampton’s Jimmy Dormire and Nashville guitarist Stan Lassiter. 8 p.m. Barking Legs Theatre 1307 Dodd’s Ave. barkinglegs.org
MUSIC ERNIE PAIK
Fred Lonberg-Holm: As Classical as Jazz Avant-garde composer and master cellist keeps jazz fresh and exciting
I
N THE FERTILE CREATIVE MUSIC GROUNDS OF CHICAgo, the versatile, overachieving cellist and composer Fred LonbergHolm thrives with the ability to stay limber, traversing jazz, classical, rock, pop and the avant-garde. He is the bandleader of the jazz outfit Valentine Trio and a member of numerous ensembles including Vox Arcana and Ballister, and he has collaborated with free-jazz heavyweights like Joe McPhee, Peter Brötzmann and Ken Vandermark. He’s played on albums such as Yankee Hotel Foxtrot by Wilco and a familiar face in releases on the labels Thrill Jockey and Drag City, and he’s recorded with artists as diverse as country band Freakwater, rock group Superchunk and the unclassifiable musician Jim O’Rourke. At the age of ten, Lonberg-Holm started taking weekly 50-cent cello lessons in inner-city Delaware, further honing his skills later in New York City at the pre-college division of Juilliard followed by the Manhattan School. He was a mentee of the legendary composer Morton Feldman in the ‘80s and studied under Anthony Braxton at Mills College in California before a return to NYC and a move to Chicago in 1995. After building momentum in NYC in the ‘80s, a key moment of his career was an appearance on the 1988 album Exquisite Corpses from the Bunker, a musical version of the surrealist writing game “Exquisite Corpse,” alongside notable improvisers including Ikue Mori, Jack Wright, Judy Dunaway and Chris Cochrane; this attention led to the release of his first CD in 1990, Theory of Motion with percussionist William Winant the aforementioned Braxton. Lonberg-Holm answered some questions for The Pulse via email, in ad-
“For me, things seem to work best when I remain open to what is actually happening and help shape it rather than try to force it into something it isn’t.” vance of his return to Barking Legs Theater on Feb. 8 for a solo cello set and a performance of his Lightbox Orchestra, comprised of local and regional improvisers. As an improviser, Lonberg-Holm had participated in many performances of “game pieces,” including the most famous one which is John Zorn’s Cobra, and he developed his idea for the Lightbox Orchestra to allow himself, as its conductor, to guide the improvisational proceedings in a stronger manner. Here’s how it works: Lonberg-Holm uses a contraption with various colored lights and hand-written cards with a picture or word on each. He will hold up a card and turn on one or more lights, each of which signals a different musician, who plays only when the corresponding light is on, sonically interpreting what is on the card. “What makes a Lightbox [performance] worthwhile is when we, as a group, find a way to listen and make some sort of sense out of what happens
between us,” said Lonberg-Holm. “For me, things seem to work best when I remain open to what is actually happening and help shape it rather than try to force it into something it isn’t.” When asked about a quote in a video for Gearwire, when he said, “If there’s any discipline, it’s the discipline of not being too disciplined,” Lonberg-Holm clarified that this isn’t about stopping practicing or any particular activity. “It’s not that you ‘should’ or ‘shouldn’t’ do something, but you should be mindful of what it is you are doing and what it does to you,” said Lonberg-Holm. “For me, it’s important to remain open and flexible. This, in and of itself, requires a particular kind of discipline. Sort of like floating on one’s back in a pool. Not ‘doing’ anything, just letting the water and your body do the work. It can be hard; for some, almost impossible.” “I think technique/craft is important if for no other reason than it gives one something to reject,” said Lonberg-
Holm. “I urge people who want to play the freaky funky freedom music to go to an old-school classical teacher, learn what you can and then unlearn as much of it as possible. It’s a long process, but I don’t know any easy bypass.” “I feel comfortable with the loose structures I inhabit but still recognize them as structures none the less,” said Lonberg-Holm. “I pretty much rejected the approach where a ‘structure’ is devised and then the sounds are hung on it like decorations. I don’t know if it’s done much anymore but it used to be a thing.” When asked about inspirations for his improvisations, he had a simple answer: “Sounds.” “Seriously. When I start to play, the only thing that matters are the sounds and their relationships to each other,” said Lonberg-Holm. “As an improviser I try to follow them and find where they lead. Only on very bad days do I start with an idea or an inspiration or desire.”
CHATTANOOGAPULSE.COM • JANUARY 28, 2016 • THE PULSE • 11
Thursday, January 28: 9pm Open Mic with Hap Henninger Friday, January 29: 9pm Jess Goggans Saturday, January 30: 10pm Irenka* (Nashville) Tuesday, February 2: 7pm
MUSIC CALENDAR
901 Carter St. Inside City Café (423) 634-9191
Server/Hotel Appreciation Night $5 Pitchers • $2 Wells ! • $1.50 Domestics
Wednesday, February 3: 8pm Wednesday Blues Night
#1 Desserts! Voted “Best of the Best” 901 Carter Street
citycafemenu.com/the-office
DON’T CHANCE IT YOUR NEXT DRINK COULD BE YOUR LAST STAY ALIVE DON’T DRINK & DRIVE
THURSDAY1.28 James Crumble Trio 6 p.m. St. John’s Meeting Place 1278 Market St. stjohnsrestaurant.com River City Sessions 6 p.m. The Hunter Museum of Art 10 Bluff View Ave. huntermuseum.org Rick Rushing with Dakari & Friends 6 p.m. Bluewater Grille 224 Broad St. bluewaterchattanooga.com Live Bluegrass 6:30 p.m. Whole Foods Market 301 Manufacturers Rd. wholefoodsmarket.com Tim Starnes 7 p.m. End Zone 3658 Ringgold Rd. (423) 661-8020 Jesse James and Tim Neal 7:30 p.m. Mexi-Wings VII 5773 Brainerd Rd. (423) 296-1073 Bluegrass Thursdays 7:30 p.m. Feed Co. Table & Tavern 201 W. Main St. feedtableandtavern.com Drakeford 8 p.m. The Social 1110 Market St. publichousechattanooga.com
12 • THE PULSE • JANUARY 28, 2016 • CHATTANOOGAPULSE.COM
David Wax Museum Open Mic with Hap Henninger 9 p.m. The Office @ City Cafe 901 Carter St. citycafemenu.com Larry Fleet 9 p.m. World of Beer 412 Market St. wobusa.com
FRIDAY1.29 Eddie Pontiac 6 p.m. El Meson 2204 Hamilton Place Blvd. elmesonrestaurant.com Live at the Bessie 6 p.m. Bessie Smith Community Center 200 E. MLK Blvd. bessiesmithcc.org Cutlass Cult 8 p.m. Granfalloon 400 E. Main St. granfallooncha.com David Wax Museum 8 p.m. Barking Legs Theater 1307 Dodds Ave. barkinglegs.org Mountain Opry 8 p.m. Walden’s Ridge Civic Center 2501 Fairmount Pike (423) 886-3252 Standing Room Only 8:30 p.m. The Foundry 1201 Broad St. chattanooganhotel.com
Jess Goggans 9 p.m. The Office @ City Cafe 901 Carter St. citycafemenu.com The Matt Stephens Project 9 p.m. Revelry Room 41 E. 14th St. revelryroom.co Eric & Eric 9 p.m. World of Beer 412 Market St. wobusa.com The Road Runners 9 p.m. Puckett’s Grocery 2 W. Aquarium Way puckettsgro.com The Rick Byers Band 10 p.m. T-Bone's 1419 Chestnut St. (423) 266-4240 Boo Rider 10 p.m. The Social 1110 Market St. publichousechattanooga.com Life and Culture Party 10 p.m. JJ’s Bohemia 241 E. MLK Blvd. jjsbohemia.com
SATURDAY1.30 Eddie Pontiac 6 p.m. El Meson 2204 Hamilton Place Blvd. elmesonrestaurant.com
Binji Varsossa 6 p.m. Cancun Mexican Restaurant & Lounge 1809 Broad St. (423) 266-1461 Art Garfunkel 8 p.m. Tivoli Theatre 709 Broad St. chattanoogaonstage.com Josh Garrels, John Mark McMillan 8 p.m. Track 29 1400 Market St. track29.co Taylor & Company 8 p.m. VFW Post #4848 1491 Riverside Dr. (423) 892-2772 War and Treaty 8 p.m. Charles and Myrtle’s Coffeehouse 105 McBrien Rd. christunity.org Side Show Revival 8 p.m. Ziggy’s Underground 607 Cherokee Blvd. ziggysbarandgrill.net VirtU & OlsoL: Jimmy Dormire & Stan Lassiter 8 p.m. Barking Legs Theatre 1307 Dodds Ave. barkinglegs.org The Countrymen Band 8 p.m. Eagles Club 6130 Airways Blvd. (423) 894-9940
Taylor & Company 8 p.m. VFW Hall 1491 Riverside Dr. (423) 624.6687 Standing Room Only 8:30 p.m. The Foundry 1201 Broad St. chattanooganhotel.com Laurel Taylor 9 p.m. World of Beer 412 Market St. wobusa.com The Power Players 9 p.m. Revelry Room 41 E. 14th St. revelryroom.co Roger Alan Wade 9 p.m. Puckett’s Grocery 2 W. Aquarium Way puckettsgro.com Irenka* 10 p.m. The Office @ City Cafe 901 Carter St. citycafemenu.com
SUNDAY1.31 Johnny Balik & Tyler Martelli 11 a.m. Bluewater Grille 224 Broad St. bluewaterchattanooga.com Danimal Pinson 2 p.m. Granfalloon 400 E. Main St. granfalloonchatt.com
Open Mic with Jeff Daniels 6 p.m. Long Haul Saloon 2536 Cummings Hwy. (423) 822-9775 Molly Maguires 7 p.m. The Honest Pint 35 Patten Pkwy thehonestpint.com John Lathim & Michelle Young 7 p.m. The Honest Pint 35 Patten Pkwy. thehonestpint.com
MONDAY2.1 Open Air with Jessica Nunn 6 p.m. Granfalloon 400 E. Main St. granfalloonchatt.com
PULSE PICK: ROGER ALAN WADE Roger has penned songs for country legends such as Johnny Cash, Waylon Jennings, George Jones and the number-one hit "Country State of Mind" for Hank Williams Jr. Roger Alan Wade Saturday, 9 p.m. Puckett’s Grocery 2 W Aquarium Way puckettsgro.com
Monday Nite Big Band 7 p.m. The Coconut Room 6925 Shallowford Rd. thepalmsathamilton.com Patten Unplugged Presents Cardon Smith 7:30 p.m. UTC Fine Arts Center 752 Vine St. utc.edu/fine-arts-center Open Mic with Shawnessey Cargile 8 p.m. The Well 1800 Rossville Blvd. #8 wellonthesouthside.com
TUESDAY2.2 A Midwinter Night’s Blast 7 p.m. Baylor School
171 Baylor School Rd. baylorschool.org Open Mic with Mike McDade 8 p.m. Tremont Tavern 1203 Hixson Pike tremonttavern.com Uptown Big Band 8 p.m. Revelry Room 41 E.14th St. revelryroom.co Shabti and Universal Sigh 10 p.m. JJ’s Bohemia 241 E. MLK Blvd. jjsbohemia.com
WEDNESDAY2.3 Eddie Pontiac 5:30 p.m. El Meson
MUSIC CALENDAR
Genki Genki Panic
248 Northgate Park elmesonrestaurant.com The Other Guys 6 p.m. Spring Hill Suites 495 Riverfront Pkwy. (423) 834-9300 A Midwinter Night’s Blast 7 p.m. Baylor School 171 Baylor School Rd. baylorschool.org Courtney Daly Band 7 p.m. End Zone 3658 Ringgold Rd. (423) 661-8020 Blues Night 8 p.m. The Office @ City Cafe 901 Carter St. citycafemenu.com Open Jam 8 p.m. Raw Dance Club 409 Market St. rawbarandgrillchatt.com Wednesday Night Jazz w/ Robert Crabtree Trio 8 p.m. Barking Legs Theater 1307 Dodds Ave. barkinglegs.org Monomath, Genki Genki Panic, and Culture Vulture 10 p.m. JJ’s Bohemia 241 E. MLK Blvd. jjsbohemia.com Map these locations on chattanoogapulse.com. Send event listings at least 10 days in advance to: calendar@chattanoogapulse.com
CHATTANOOGAPULSE.COM • JANUARY 28, 2016 • THE PULSE • 13
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Drumming Bird Trees On Fire (drummingbird.bandcamp.com)
A
ustin Sawyer is a confident songwriter. Before releasing the Trees On Fire EP, the Sawyerlead Drumming Bird teased the release with the leading track, “Take the Tiger Home”, a song about youth, love and uncertainty set in West Tennessee. It has nice guitar playing in the bridge, wellwritten harmonies in the interludes and all-in-all is a solid pop song disguised as a rock song. It shows off Sawyer’s songwriter skills and is a very impressive start to a very well put together compilation. A lot of Trees On Fire is about youth and the people that come in and out of your life as a young person. In “Blue Hole,” a track that is slick in production and assured in the style of a break-up song with a deeper, less opti-
14 • THE PULSE • JANUARY 28, 2016 • CHATTANOOGAPULSE.COM
Katrina Barclay Element (katrinabarclay.bandcamp.com)
mistic message. “Your face is like goodbye one letter at a time,” Sawyer sings, as if writing the one letter that he swore he couldn’t to an ex-lover. He writes about cold love and warm hearts, kid stuff, but he sings like he means it and you can’t help but listen along accordingly. Another standout is “The Hair On My Head,” where Sawyer sings about love once again, repeating over and over that it’s “hard to let you go.” And whether he’s referencing the blood in his veins, brain in his skull or the heart in his chest, he makes sure to lay out a dramatic note once again to get a simple message across. The EP concludes with a very mature “Trees On Fire,” a mostly instrumental track that is subtly concluded with the question of when the narrator will
K
atrina Barclay listens to good music. I don’t know her personally, have never met her and didn’t know about her until days ago. But after listening to her 12-track album, Element, one thing is clear: Katrina Barclay listens to good music. Because in order to write such good, and in most places great, songs, you have to have templates, inspiration, and something to strive for. Artists like Kristin Diable, The Civil Wars, and even Ryan Adams come to mind when listening to this confident, experienced and thoughtful songwriter. The production is incredibly satisfying, stripped down when it needs to be and layered frequently when it only enhances the intricacies of the words and the guitar playing. The first thing a listener notices is her voice. Barclay has a strong, selfassured, very controlled voice and knows how to
use it while writing a song. She could ring off quick lyrics like she does in the title-track or give herself to long winded melodies like in the outstanding “Ifs and Maybes,” which has heavy, bluesy guitar tones. “Know Better” starts the album off with a should I stay or go type situation where the narrator battles with her situation in the classic “I don’t need you but I want you.” In “Explosions In The Sky,” she relates all of our insecurities and hidden gems as fires and storms in our soul, all hiding inside, waiting to ignite. The album’s highlight (and let’s be clear, there are many) certainly has to be “Coward”. A sharp and clever tune about her own confidence and intellect in the life of love. Barclay constantly reinvents her point-of-view over all the 12 songs. Whether it’s from a confident state like “Consider the Raven,” or on the flip side in “Crush,” where she asks “Should I leave or say please?” Element is a delightful album from a mostly unknown. If she keeps this up, unknown is a description that she can certainly leave in her rearview.
FOOD & DRINK MIXOLOGY
Get A “Handle” On Your Health The health benefits of grapefruit infused cocktails “As I was looking for a healthy fruit infused vodka, I was let in on a delicious mixed drink bartenders in Chattanooga have been making recently.” “Someone told me that grapefruit was a great detoxifier and I decided I wanted to start cleaning out my liver while I was having a cocktail.” —Chelsea Handler, Are You There, Vodka? It’s Me, Chelsea Comedian Chelsea Handler is quite controversial, but in certain situations, her honesty is her salvation. This is one of those moments. With only half of the winter season behind us, there is still a dangerous amount of time to gain more of the holiday weight you hoped you wouldn’t, or catch the terrible cold uncle Fred had at Christmas. There are numerous options
of delicious alcoholic beverages sure to load you with artificial sweetener, but we’d recommend you opt out and try something which will leave you feeling happy and healthy. When it comes to alcohol the folks at Imbibe know what they’re talking about. As I was looking for a healthy fruit infused vodka, I was let in on a delicious mixed drink bartenders in Chattanooga have been making recently. Within the last six months, one of the most popular drinks being made involves two simple ingredients: Stiegl Radler and Deep Eddy vodka. The Radler is a dry, shandy beer made with grapefruit soda
and Deep Eddy vodka, infused with real grapefruit and no other sweetener. The Stiegl Radler is great on its own, and has only 35 calories per 100 ml. However sometimes you need an extra kick, which is where the low calorie, naturally sweetened grapefruit infused vodka comes in. Deep Eddy grapefruit vodka has only 67 calories per shot, making it a not-so guilty pleasure. By combining these two, you end up with a refreshing blend of a slightly malty beer, the tart yet sweet taste of the grapefruit soda, and a sharp, tangy kick of vodka. With other refreshing drinks like the margarita, you’re drinking upwards of 500 calories. Why not go for a Vodka and Grapefruit Radler instead? If you want
to change it up a little bit, the Radler pairs great with watermelon and basil infused vodka, which you can hunt down in stores to make on your own. And if you’re not much of a grapefruit enthusiast, there are several other versions of this drink to try. Stiegl also makes a lemon version of the same beer and Deep Eddy’s has cranberry and lemon infused vodka. They also have sweet tea vodka if you call yourself a true southerner! One of the best things about grapefruit and many other citrus fruits are the low calorie count and the high payoff of naturally sweet, tangy flavor. Grapefruits are high in potassium, fiber, and vitamin C, all of which help to maintain a healthy heart. Grapefruit is also one of the most hydrating fruits in the world, made up of 91% water and full of electrolytes. The vitamin C and electrolytes are crucial to getting through these winter months when everyone is just a sneeze away from catching the flu. Not only does this increase the hydration levels of your skin, but it also gives your immune system a boost! Here’s the recipe: 1 part Radler (1216 ounce can) mixed with 2 parts Deep Eddy grapefruit infused vodka (1-2 ounces). The recipe is as easy as can be! And if you’re looking for a stronger kick, just add another shot. Cheers to a tangy, healthy rest of winter! —Rebekah Jones
DAILY WINE TASTINGS 20 BEERS ON TAP COMPETITIVE PRICES UNRIVALED SERVICE PROVISIONS & GIFTS 1616 BROAD STREET | CHATTANOOGA |37408 423.777.4820 MON - THURS 10a - 10p FRI - SAT 10a - 10p CHATTANOOGAPULSE.COM • JANUARY 28, 2016 • THE PULSE • 15
ARTS SCENE
Erika Roberts-Blackmon
Black Youth, Black Expressions Music and arts flourish throughout local black youth “I’m singing. I have a passion for music…that’s something that I’ve always done. I’ve always loved music and essentially, I just want to stay on a positive path.” These are the words of Quay’shawn Montez Bell, a student of Howard High School. Bell and other local young black artists are taking their talents to “Young, Gifted, & Black”. Created by Garrell Woods and titled after a profound song written by Nina Simone in 1969, “Young, Gifted, & Black” showcases many of Chattanooga’s young and talented black artists to display their creativity through arts. The majority of artists are high school students who urge other teenagers from Chattanooga’s black community to strive for their dreams despite their background. Special guests include Erika Rob-
ON SALE FRIDAY, 1/29 AT 10 AM!
16 • THE PULSE • JANUARY 28, 2016 • CHATTANOOGAPULSE.COM
erts-Blackmon, a local writer and poet. Her poem titled “How Do the Gifted Dream” was written in honor of the event. As Blackmon stated, “Lately, the news is about the violence in our community involving young people. This show will shine a different light on our gifted kids.” The lineup features the talents of Ladarrius Slater, Quay’shawn Montez Bell, Kevon Jackson, Zach Grant, Jessyka Jazz, DeNayzia Millsap, Dajourne Waller, Chelsea Crosby, Erika Roberts-Blackmon and Marley Fox. — Ja'Lisa Little
Young, Gifted, & Black Friday, 8 p.m. Mercy Junction Justice and Peace Center 1918 Union Ave. (423) 629-9872 mercyjunction.org
THU1.28
FRI1.29
SAT1.30
FESTIVAL FUN
WHAT A BEAR
LET'S GET PINK
Lookout Wild Film Festival Opening Night Party
“Adventures Of A Bear Called Paddington”
11th Annual Pink! Gala
Come celebrate one of the best film festivals in town. 7 p.m. The Camp House 149 E. MLK Blvd. (423) 702-8081 lookoutfilmfestival.or
Whoever heard of a bear in a raincoat? Well...just about everyone, of course. 7 p.m. Chattanooga Theatre Centre 400 River St. (423) 267-8534 theatrecentre.com
A celebration of life for breast cancer patients and survivors raising more than $2.4 million since 2006. 6:30 p.m. Convention Center 1 Carter Plz. (423) 756-0001 memorial.org/pink!
ARTS BETH MILLER
Jedis, Art and Cooper McCormick Channeling the spirt of Star Wars and artistic expression
A
CURIOUS NEW ART GALLERY HAS OPENED ON FRAZier Ave. on the Northshore. The Luminara Collection quietly opened its doors in November bringing with it a unique selection of art and craftsmanship—colorful, tiny crocheted octopi, Sharpie drawn sketches, and ethereal paintings that take onlookers to otherworldly places.
The gallery seeks highly creative oddities like the ceramic sculptures of Adam Kirby—formed clay torn by actual bullet holes. Upon first glance, Kirby’s art is thought provoking and slightly horrifying in a way that made me pause to reflect on all of the things that particular piece symbolizes. Lizi Campbell’s crocheted creatures were puzzlingly intricate eliciting my inner child while simultaneously evoking an adult curiosity. Cooper McCormick, the gallery’s owner/operator, does not turn any artist away. “The odder,” she says, “the better.” McCormick recognized a need within the Chattanooga art community for an art incubator providing local, emerging artists a chance to collaborate on, showcase, and sell their work. She places no harsh boundaries on what defines art. As an artist herself, she is open to all who consider themselves artists. “I wanted to provide a space where we could build a collaborative group,” she says. Artists conceive ideas for their work, draw inspiration from each other, and decide when and how to plan upcoming events. Chuckling, she admits the group deems these meetings “bored meetings.” Thirty-seven artists ranging in age from 19 to 50 and hailing from countries such as Russia and Argentina make up the artist arsenal. The
“The diversity among the artists is just as varied as their work, and McCormick is proud of the spectrum on display.” diversity among the artists is just as varied as their work, and McCormick is proud of the spectrum on display. The name Luminara is certainly puzzling as a search for its meaning on the great Internet turns up an infinite number of candle ads. McCormick candidly reveals the origin of the gallery name. She is, she admits, a Star Wars fanatic and a nerd. As a Cheshire cat smile appears across McCormick’s face, she explains her connection to the gallery’s namesake. Luminara Unduli was a female Jedi Master and appeared in several of the Star Wars: The Clone Wars animated episodes before finally succumbing to a mysterious death. McCormick grabs a tiny painting of Luminara that hangs on a dried bouquet and uses it as part of her Star Wars show-and-tell. Ann Marie Miller, gallery cofounder, stands beside her smiling, nodding, silently adding to the conversation. As soon as McCormick finishes, Miller immediately pipes up
confirming the Star Wars inspiration, placing her own spin on the story. It is obvious they make a solid team and fully believe in their mission. It is not uncommon to observe artists working on a piece inside the gallery or even outside. Dillon McMillan in particular is notorious for beginning a painting inside, leaving it, and ultimately returning to continue working on his pieces on the sidewalk for passersby to see and not necessarily in that order. McCormick does not require that any artist work a specific amount of time per week. Instead, each is permitted to come and go as they please, working inside the gallery when they have someone interested in their art. The ultimate goal of this environment is to provide a nurturing space where artists can explore and display their unique gifts. Of course, creating art requires more than a workspace and freedom. For McCormick, art and emotion are tightly connected. Art, she says, is
sparked by events in the artists’ lives, whether good or bad. The resulting creation represents something that cannot be conveyed otherwise. There isn’t always an underlying meaning for each creation; but the psyche has a way of revealing things hiding deep within in the form of a sculpture or painting or sketch. As for the source of McCormick’s own inspiration and motivation, she dedicates the gallery in honor of her best friend, an artist who passed. Her friend’s creations are on display so others can view the blossoming talent that died too soon. As I walk through the gallery observing the handmade jewelry that adorns everything there, each painting and sketch along the walls and on the tables leads my eyes to the next work. Every trinket and oddity fills and connects the space. That, I think, is the sort of connection that McCormick has created between her friends and fellow artists. That is The Luminara Collection.
CHATTANOOGAPULSE.COM • JANUARY 28, 2016 • THE PULSE • 17
ARTS CALENDAR
Chattacon 41
THURSDAY1.28
TICKETS – $55 ($65 at the door)
Drinks Dancing HorsD ’oeuvres F
F
F
Bring Your Sweetheart, Go Stag, or Party with Your Pals!
®
Center for Creative Arts Dinner and Fundraiser 5 p.m. Center for Creative Arts 1301 Dallas Rd. (423) 209-5937 centerforcreativearts.net River City Sessions & North Carolina Stories 6 p.m. The Hunter Museum of Art 10 Bluff View Ave. (423) 267-0968 huntermuseum.org Winter Workshop Series: Fresh Water Snorkeling 6 p.m. Outdoor Chattanooga 200 River St. (423) 643-6888 outdoorchattanooga.com Dinner & the Arts 6:30 p.m. Chattanooga High School Center for Creative Arts 1301 Dallas Rd. (423) 409-5929 centerforcreativearts.net Lookout Wild Film Festival Opening Night Party 7 p.m. The Camp House 149 E. MLK Blvd. (423) 702-8081 lookoutfilmfestival.org Cee Jay Jones 7:30 p.m. The Comedy Catch 1400 Market St. (423) 629-2233 thecomedycatch.com
18 • THE PULSE • JANUARY 28, 2016 • CHATTANOOGAPULSE.COM
FRIDAY1.29 Chattacon 41 5 p.m. Chattanooga Choo Choo 1400 Market St. (800) 872-2529 chattacon.org Georgia Winery’s Ladies Night Out 6:30 p.m. Georgia Winery 6469 Battlefield Pkwy. (706) 937-9463 georgiawines.com Lookout Wild Film Festival Friday Night Prime Time 7 p.m. Memorial Auditorium Community Theater 399 McCallie Ave. lookoutfilmfestival.org “Adventures Of A Bear Called Paddington” 7 p.m. Chattanooga Theatre Centre 400 River St. (423) 267-8534 theatrecentre.com “The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe” 7:30 p.m. Go Georgia Arts 7787 Nashville St. Ringgold, GA (770) 380-0420 facebook.com/gogeorgiaarts Cee Jay Jones 7:30, 9:45 p.m. The Comedy Catch 1400 Market St. (423) 629-2233 thecomedycatch.com
Young, Gifted, & Black 8 p.m. Mercy Junction Justice and Peace Center 1918 Union Ave. (423) 629-9872 mercyjunction.org
SATURDAY1.30 Chattacon 41 10 a.m. Chattanooga Choo Choo 1400 Market St. (800) 872-2529 chattacon.org The Rose of Hope Pearl Benefit Pageant 11:30 a.m. UTC Auditorium 615 McCallie Ave. (423) 425-4111 Live At The Met: Turandot Carmike East Ridge 18 12:55 p.m. 5080 S. Terrace (423) 855-9652 carmike.com Lookout Wild Film Festival Free Yoga Session 1 p.m. Memorial Auditorium Community Theater 399 McCallie Ave. lookoutfilmfestival.org “Seize the Laughter” 1:30, 7:30 p.m. Colonnade Center 264 Catoosa Cir. Ringgold, GA (706) 935-9000 colonnadecenter.org “The Lion, the Witch,
and the Wardrobe” 2, 7:30 p.m. Go Georgia Arts 7787 Nashville St., Ringgold, GA (770) 380-0420 facebook.com/gogeorgiaarts Introduction to Improv Comedy 2 p.m. Jazzanooga Arts Space 431 E. MLK Blvd. jazzanooga.org Lookout Wild Film Festival Saturday Matinee 2 p.m. Memorial Auditorium Community Theater 399 McCallie Ave. lookoutfilmfestival.org “Adventures Of A Bear Called Paddington” 2:30, 7 p.m. Chattanooga Theatre Centre 400 River St. (423) 267-8534 theatrecentre.com Symphonic Tales: A Winnie the Pooh Celebration 3 p.m. Downtown Library 1001 Broad St. (423) 757-5310 chattlibrary.org Evensong and Cantata 114 4 p.m. Christ Church Episcopal 663 Douglas St. (423) 266-4263 christchurch.dioet.org V-Day 6 p.m. Mercy Junction Justice and Peace Center
ARTS CALENDAR
Live At The Met: Turandot 1918 Union Ave. (423) 629-9872 mercyjunction.com 11th Annual Pink! Gala 6:30 p.m. Chattanooga Convention Center 1 Carter Plz. (423) 756-0001 memorial.org/pink! Lookout Wild Film Festival Saturday Prime Time 7 p.m. Memorial Auditorium Community Theater 399 McCallie Ave. lookoutfilmfestival.org Cee Jay Jones 7:30, 9:45 p.m. The Comedy Catch 1400 Market St. (423) 629-2233
SUNDAY1.31 Chattacon 41 10 a.m. Chattanooga Choo Choo 1400 Market St. (800) 872-2529 chattacon.org Lookout Wild Film Festival Free Yoga Session 1 p.m. Memorial Auditorium Community Theater 399 McCallie Ave. lookoutfilmfestival.org Lookout Wild Film Festival Sunday Matinee 2 p.m. Memorial Auditorium Community Theater 399 McCallie Ave.
lookoutfilmfestival.org “Adventures Of A Bear Called Paddington” 2:30 p.m. Chattanooga Theatre Centre 400 River St. (423) 267-8534 theatrecentre.com “Seize the Laughter” 2:30 p.m. Colonnade Center 264 Catoosa Cir. Ringgold, GA (706) 935-9000 colonnadecenter.org Barnett & Company Cantata Series 4 p.m. Christ Church Chattanooga 663 Douglas St. (423) 903-0048 chattanoogabachchoir.org V-Day 6 p.m.
PULSE PICK: CEE JAY JONES
Wild and totally outrageous, with a style of comedy that is all his own. His stage presence, quick wit, high energy and rapid fire delivery keeps his audiences laughing non-stop. Cee Jay Jones The Comedy Catch 1400 Market St. (423) 629-2233 thecomedycatch.com
Mercy Junction Justice and Peace Center 1918 Union Ave. (423) 629-9872 mercyjunction.com Cee Jay Jones 7:30 p.m. The Comedy Catch 1400 Market St. (423) 629-2233 thecomedycatch.com
MONDAY2.1 Lookout Farmers Market: Winter Market 4:30 p.m. Red Bank United Methodist 3800 Dayton Blvd. (423) 877-2881 lookoutfarmersmarket.com Men’s Barbershop Harmony Group
7 p.m. All Saints Academy 310 E. 8th St (423) 265-7464 allsaintsacademy.com
TUESDAY2.2 A Midwinter Night’s Blast 7 p.m. Baylor School 171 Baylor School Rd. (423) 267-8505 baylorschool.org Rapid Learning Intro to Kayaking and Skills Practice: Winter Class 7 p.m. Southern Adventist University Hulsey Wellness Center 4870 University Dr. (423) 643-6888 outdoorchattanooga.com
WEDNESDAY2.3 Middle Eastern Dance 10:30 a.m. Jewish Cultural Center 5461 N. Terrace (423) 493-0270 jewishchattanooga.com Chattanooga Symphony Animal Tales Matinee Concert Noon Tivoli Theatre 709 Broad St. (423) 757-5156 chattanoogasymphony.org Main Street Farmers Market 4 p.m. 325 E. Main St. mainstfarmersmarket.com Live At The Met: Turandot Carmike East Ridge 18 6:30 p.m. 5080 S. Terrace (423) 855-9652 carmike.com A Midwinter Night’s Blast 7 p.m. Baylor School 171 Baylor School Rd. (423) 267-8505 baylorschool.org Big Ed Caylor 7:30 p.m. The Comedy Catch 1400 Market St. (423) 629-2233 thecomedycatch.com Map these locations on chattanoogapulse.com. Send event listings at least 10 days in advance to: calendar@chattanoogapulse.com
CHATTANOOGAPULSE.COM • JANUARY 28, 2016 • THE PULSE • 19
Curves
SCREEN SCENE
Joshua Michalski
Laser IMAX Set To Stun Audiences Tennessee Aquarium announces new IMAX 3D Film Festival
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C h a t t a n o o g a C h a m b e r. c o m
Consider This with Dr. Rick by Rick Pimental-Habib, Ph.D. “I am not afraid of my truth anymore and I will not omit pieces of me to make you comfortable.” —author unknown
Construction crews and technicians are edging closer to wrapping up the $1.2 million upgrades to the Tennessee Aquarium IMAX 3D Theater. Testing on the new IMAX with Laser projection system and state-ofthe-art audio array is now underway. “This complex project has moved along quickly and smoothly,” said Don Walker, the Aquarium’s director of guest services. “We’re looking forward to reopening on the first day of February and offering our guests a much more immersive experience.” Movie fans will have eight 3D mov-
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ies to choose from during the Tennessee Aquarium IMAX 3D Theater Film Festival which begins Feb. 1st through the 11th. Each of these films has been remastered especially for the IMAX with Laser format and are among the highest-rated movies ever shown on Chattanooga’s largest screen. Whether it’s through playful creatures, dazzling coral reefs, or feeling as if you’re traveling to the edges of the universe, this film festival promises to fill the screen with visuals that are bigger, brighter and bolder. — Thom Benson
NEW IN THEATERS
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It’s been said many times: The hardest thing in the world is to be completely and genuinely yourself. Living your truth means you run the risk of rejection, abandonment, being considered less-than or somehow unworthy. All of which has absolutely nothing to do with you. Do you get that? The high cost of abandoning yourself is nothing less than your selfesteem. So here are some questions to ask: What parts of yourself are you hiding? Are you in love with someone the family won’t approve of? Are you a democrat in a brood of republicans? Are you in deep, soulful conflict with the teachings of the church of your childhood? Are you lesbian, gay or transgender? Are you secretly, painfully fighting an addiction? Consider this: How will you get to know how wonderful you are if you’re hiding in a closet? Perhaps it’s time to bring your inner and outer worlds together, in truth.
20 • THE PULSE • JANUARY 28, 2016 • CHATTANOOGAPULSE.COM
Kung Fu Panda 3 Continuing his "legendary adventures of awesomeness", Po must face two hugely epic, but different threats: one supernatural and the other a little closer to home. Directors: Alessandro Carloni & Jennifer Yuh Stars: Jack Black, Angelina Jolie, Dustin Hoffman, Jackie Chan
The Finest Hours The Coast Guard makes a daring—and altogether thrilling—rescue attempt off the coast of Cape Cod after a pair of oil tankers are destroyed during a blizzard in 1952. Director: Craig Gillespie Stars: Chris Pine, Holliday Grainger, Casey Affleck, Ben Foster
SCREEN JOHN DEVORE
Misery in The Great White North Alejandro G. Iñárritu’s riveting The Revenant proves worthwhile
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HERE ARE DISCUSSIONS TO BE HAD ABOUT THE NAture of film. As a visual art form, does the filmmaker have a responsibility to tell a cohesive, impactful story? Or should film exist on its own, as a celebration of visual style, giving preference to a mastery of the cinematography over narrative structure? Does a film really need to do either? While the answer might rest solely with the goal and vision of the filmmaker, when it comes to a major Hollywood release, the audience must be considered.
Of course, most films will have an audience somewhere, but in a year when films have become excessive in their length (three out of eight Best Picture nominees clock in at around two and a half hours and only one is less than two hours), it’s easy to wonder if filmmakers are over-indulging in the more aggrandized parts of their artistic natures. As with most things, it comes down to personal preference. I prefer strong, tight narratives to drawn out meandering, but I can understand the appeal of the latter. Alejandro G. Iñárritu’s The Revenant leans more towards meandering, with slow scenes of misery in the Great White North. However, the beauty on display in each scene is breathtaking in both scope and craft. It is a film to be seen on large, crisp screens in the darkest theater you can find, but it doesn’t quite reach the depths of character from last year’s Birdman. Then again, these films are only really comparable in that they happen to have the same director. The Revenant is inspired by the true story of American frontiersman Hugh Glass, which is a fancy way of saying that the characters share some of the same names and both involve a bear attack. It is an adaptation of a novel, which was a fictionalization of some real events, but don’t be fooled: much
“ The Revenant is inspired by the true story of American frontiersman Hugh Glass, which is a fancy way of saying that the characters share some of the same names and both involve a bear attack.” of what happens is an invention of screenwriters. The film’s version of Glass is a quiet, reserved widower with an affinity for Native American culture that stems from intermarriage into a Pawnee family. He is on a trapping excursion with his half Pawnee son and a company of rugged mountain men. The film begins as they are set upon by another Indian tribe, looking for the white men who kidnapped the chief’s daughter. The opening scenes are the most exciting part of the film, but what follows is an incredibly beautiful trek across the frozen American wilderness.
The film is mostly a survival story— for both the characters and the actors that played them. Iñárritu relied heavily on practical effects and natural lighting, meaning that the actors were very much in the thick of some very stark, difficult situations. The performances in the film are all exceptional. Tom Hardy in particular, who has an ear for accents, is convincing as a pragmatic Southerner living at the far end of societal acceptance. For all the hype surrounding the performance by Leonardo DiCaprio, he is effective in the lead, but not overwhelming or surprising. His job is to look miserable but determined, angry but methodical, all of which may come across through the simple filmmaking experience alone. In other words, acting cold is easier when it is 10 below zero on the set. This isn’t to say DiCaprio isn’t deserving of an Oscar nomination. The mere difficulty in making the film is likely enough to warrant it.
Despite the incredible beauty on display in the film, there is a frustrating desire in films showcasing the American frontier to deify Native Americans by having a white character venerate their mystery. It is less on the nose in The Revenant but visions and magical realism are presented in several crucial scenes. It’s almost as if these cultures must be validated in some way by having a white character experience them. It’s a trend that can be found in film after film, one that isn’t necessarily a cultural appropriation but also not entirely necessary to the telling of the story. It seems that even the best directors can’t resist the call of the stereotypical vision quest. That said, The Revenant is still an exceptional achievement in film. The dangerous beauty found in the wild places of North America still exist. It shines through in a film that pushes through the underbrush of easy Hollywood fare.
CHATTANOOGAPULSE.COM • JANUARY 28, 2016 • THE PULSE • 21
Jonesin’ Crossword
Free Will Astrology
MATT JONES
AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): “It seems that the whole time you’re living this life, you’re thinking about a different one instead,” wrote Latvian novelist Inga Abele in her novel High Tide. Have you ever been guilty of that, Aquarius? Probably. Most of us have at one time or another. That’s the bad news. The good news is that the coming months will bring you excellent opportunities to graduate forever from this habit. Not all at once, but gradually and incrementally, you can shed the idea that you should be doing something other than what you’re doing. You can get the hang of what it’s like to thoroughly accept and embrace the life you are actually living. And now is an excellent time to get started in earnest on this project. PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): “Even nightingales can’t be fed on fairy tales,” says a character in Ivan Turgenev’s novel Fathers and Sons. In other words, these marvelous birds, which sing sublimely and have long been invoked by poets to symbolize lyrical beauty, need actual physical sustenance. They can’t eat dreamy stories. Having acknowledged that practical fact, however, I will suggest that right now you require dreamy stories and rambling fantasies and imaginary explorations almost as much as you need your daily bread. Your soul’s hunger has reached epic proportions. It’s time to gorge.
“Roll With It”—a round of applause. ACROSS 1 Part of NKOTB 4 Reason for a Boy Scout badge 9 Trolley 13 Twenty-one desirable 14 Brunch beverage 15 Negative space 16 Arts and crafts chain in a 2014 Supreme Court decision 18 It may be golden 19 Pianist Tatum 20 Like just-abovefreezing temperatures, in Celsius 22 Racetrack suggestion 25 2, 4, 6, 8, what do these approximate? 26 The Hamburglar’s catchphrase 30 Rallying cry against Cobra, perhaps 31 Chinese premier Zhou ___ 32 Karl Lagerfeld prop 35 Play ___ role 36 Subsequent to 37 “I can do that!” 38 D.C. ballplayer 39 Henry Doorly Zoo city
40 First twotime Nobelist 41 Foolish talk, to B.A. Baracus 43 1990s defense secretary Les 46 Thai appetizers on skewers 47 Through the efforts of 51 TV show taper, once 52 Evian waters 53 “Va-va-voom!” relative 58 Run in neutral 59 Pungenttasting, in a way 60 Veterans Day mo. 61 Long-distance swimmer Diana 62 Drummer Charlie of the Rolling Stones 63 Cute spherical character in “The Force Awakens” demonstrated in this grid (not counting this answer) DOWN 1 “No dice” 2 “The Name of the Rose” novelist Umberto 3 One W of WWW
4 “Uncle” of early TV 5 Philips who said “How many people here have telekinetic powers? Raise my hand” 6 Prefix for call or cop 7 Bookstore ID 8 Actor Diggs who coauthored the 2015 children’s book “Mixed Me!” 9 Do very well 10 Cheekbone enhancer 11 “I’m betting everything,” to poker players 12 Track events 14 ___ Beach, South Carolina 17 Creature born in 1982, according to the Weekly World News 21 Bagel and lox purveyor 22 Water pipe in a lounge (var.) 23 ___ d’art 24 Factory-made, as housing 26 Actor Gosling 27 “___ Good Ship Lollipop” 28 Goes out of focus
29 Place to pick up glasses 32 1998 interactive toy with its own artificial language 33 First astrological sign 34 ___-do-well (slacker) 36 Diplomat’s title, for short 37 Forester automaker 39 Make like a pig 40 Like a memorable tune 41 Full of bad luck 42 Some Indonesians, by location 43 Used the dining room table 44 Untrustworthy 45 Comedian Poundstone 48 “Fish” or “CHiPs,” e.g. 49 Melt base 50 “In memoriam” writeup 54 Droid 55 Air___ (lodging website) 56 “Better Call Saul” star Odenkirk 57 “I could’ve had ___!” (juice slogan)
Copyright © 2016 Jonesin’ Crosswords. For answers to this puzzle, call: 1-900-226-2800, 99 cents per minute. Must be 18+ to call. Or to bill to your credit card, call: 1-800-655-6548. Reference puzzle No. 0764
22 • THE PULSE • JANUARY 28, 2016 • CHATTANOOGAPULSE.COM
ARIES (March 21-April 19): Do you know Emily Brontë’s novel Wuthering Heights? At one point, the heroine Catherine tells her friend about Edgar, a man she’s interested in. “He wanted all to lie in an ecstasy of peace,” Catherine says, “and I wanted all to sparkle and dance in a glorious jubilee. I said his heaven would be only half alive; and he said mine would be drunk: I said I should fall asleep in his; and he said he could not breathe in mine.” If you’re a typical Aries, you’re more aligned with Catherine than with Edgar. But I’m hoping you might consider making a temporary compromise in the coming weeks. “At last, we agreed to try both,” Catherine concluded, “and then we kissed each other and were friends.” TAURUS (April 20-May 20): People turn to you Tauruses for help in staying grounded. They love to soak up your down-to-earth pragmatism. They want your steadfastness to rub off on them, to provide them with the stability they see in you. You should be proud of this service you offer! It’s a key part of your appeal. Now and then, though, you need to demonstrate that your stalwart dependability is not static and stagnant—that it’s strong exactly because it’s flexible and adaptable. The coming weeks will be an excellent time to emphasize this aspect of your superpower.
ROB BREZSNY
GEMINI (May 21-June 20): When winter comes, pine trees that grow near mountaintops may not be able to draw water and minerals from the ground through their roots. The sustenance they require is frozen. Luckily, their needle-like leaves absorb moisture from clouds and fog, and drink in minerals that float on the wind. Metaphorically speaking, Gemini, this will be your preferred method for getting nourished in the coming weeks. For the time being, look UP to obtain what you need. Be fed primarily by noble ideals, big visions, divine inspiration, and high-minded people. CANCER (June 21-July 22): We all go through phases when we are at odds with people we love. Maybe we’re mad at them, or feel hurt by them, or can’t comprehend what they’re going through. The test of our commitment is how we act when we are in these moods. That’s why I agree with author Steve Hall when he says, “The truest form of love is how you behave toward someone, not how you feel about them.” The coming weeks will be an important time for you to practice this principle with extra devotion— not just for the sake of the people you care about, but also for your own physical, mental, and spiritual health. LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): After fighting and killing each other for years on end, the Roman and Persian armies agreed to a truce in 532 A.D. The treaty was optimistically called “The Endless Peace.” Sadly, “endless” turned out to be just eight years. By 540, hostilities resumed. I’m happy to announce, though, that your prospects for accord and rapprochement are much brighter. If you work diligently to negotiate an endless peace anytime between now and March 15, it really is likely to last a long time. VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): “I shiver, thinking how easy it is to be totally wrong about people, to see one tiny part of them and confuse it for the whole.” Author Lauren Oliver wrote that, and now I’m offering it to you, just in time for your Season of Correction and Adjustment. The coming weeks will be a favorable time for you to get smarter about evaluating your allies—and maybe even one of your adversaries, as well. I expect you will find it relatively easy, even pleasurable, to overcome your misimpressions and deepen your incomplete understandings. LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): In June 1942, the U.S. Navy crushed Japanese naval forces at the Battle of Midway. It was a turning point that was crucial to America’s ultimate victory over Japan in World War II. One military historian called it “the most stunning
and decisive blow in the history of naval warfare.” This milestone occurred just six months after Japan’s devastating attack on U.S. forces at Pearl Harbor. To compare your life to these two events may be bombastic, but I’m in a bombastic mood as I contemplate your exciting possibilities. I predict that in the second half of 2016, you’ll claim a victory that will make up for a loss or defeat you endured during the last few months of 2015. And right now is when you can lay the groundwork for that future triumph. SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Playwright Edmond Rostand (18681918) had a lot of friends, and they often came to visit him uninvited. He found it hard to simply tell them to go away and leave him alone. And yet he hated to be interrupted while he was working. His solution was to get naked and write for long hours while in his bathroom, usually soaking in the bathtub. His intrusive friends rarely had the nerve to insist on socializing. In this way, Rostand found the peace he needed to create his masterpiece Cyrano de Bergerac, as well as numerous other plays. I suggest you consider a comparable gambit, Scorpio. You need to carve out some quality alone time. SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): “I opened my mouth, almost said something. Almost. The rest of my life might have turned out differently if I had. But I didn’t.” The preceding reminiscence belongs to a character in Khaled Hosseini’s novel The Kite Runner. I bring it up in hopes that you will do the opposite: Say the words that need to be said. Articulate what you’re burning to reveal. Speak the truths that will send your life on a course that’s in closer alignment with your pure intentions. CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): According to some traditional astrologers, you Capricorns are vigilant to avoid loss. Old horoscope books suggest that you may take elaborate measures to avoid endangering what you have accumulated. To ensure that you will never run out of what you need, you may even ration your output and limit your self-expression. This behavior is rooted in the belief that you should conserve your strength by withholding or even hiding your power. While there may be big grains of truth in this conventional view of you Capricorns, I think it’s only part of the story. In the coming weeks, for instance, I bet you will wield your clout with unabashed authority. You won’t save yourself for later; you’ll engage in no strategic selfsuppression. Instead, you will be expansive and unbridled as you do whatever’s required to carry out the important foundation work that needs to be done.
FOOD & DRINK SUSHI & BISCUITS
No Bones About It: All About The Marrow Chef Mike gets to roasting with them sweet and tasty bones When I stop and think about it, a sack of bones probably shouldn’t have elicited squeals of excitement out of MIKE a fifty-year old MCJUNKIN man, but these weren’t just any bones—these were veal shank bones. Smearing faint, light red streaks of blood and remaining flesh against the inside of the plastic bag that stretched and strained to contain them, these treasures were not only fresh, but sourced from a grass-fed, naturally-raised local calf from a farmer I personally knew. She had even been so kind as to split them vertically, exposing more of the marrow surface area. It was a gift of immeasurable kindness and beauty, and I was absolutely giddy. I had no intention of using these beauties to make a fond brun de veau, or brown veal stock, nor was I under any illusion that a batch of “bone broth” would allow my wounds to heal like Wolverine. My plan was much simpler, decadent, and deliciously carnal. These treasures were destined to become roasted marrow bones, served alongside a simple salad and toast. Once the marrow had been scooped out, admired, and slowly savored like a 1952 Macallan on the rocks, the hollowed-out bones would be used for a novel, but stunningly flavorful drink experience—the bone luge. First, let’s talk roasted marrow bones. Roasted bone marrow is best described as “meat butter.” When you’re looking at a bone that’s been cut, it’s the soft, fatty stuff in the center that fills all the cavities of the bone and makes the dif-
“Once the marrow had been scooped out, admired and slowly savored like a 1952 Macallan on the rocks, the hollowedout bones would be used for a novel, but stunningly flavorful drink experience— the bone luge.” ference between a silky, rich beef stock and bland meat water. When you roast marrow bones just until the marrow begins to loosen from the bone itself, but before it starts to melt away, the result is a buttery texture and concentrated beef flavor that will bring any carnivore to their knees in a state of gooey, meaty nirvana. While it’s still hot, scoop the marrow out with a narrow utensil, a bit of crusty bread or you can have your manservant fetch your marrow spoons from the butler’s pantry. (Marrow spoons began to appear on upper class tables in the late 1600s and can still be found in Ina Garten’s china cabinet). Serve on toast with something acidic, like a vinaigrette salad, to compliment the richness of the marrow. After the marrow has been consumed, it’s time for the swimwear portion of the evening—the bone luge. Once you’ve cleaned the meat butter out of the bones and your arteries are crying out for mercy, you’ll be left holding the trench-shaped remnants (remember to
have the butcher split them lengthwise, not “pipe cut” if you want to perform the bone luge ritual). Grab a shot of a mild, smooth spirit, such as brandy or sherry. Don’t use liquor with a strong flavor or an alcohol content of more than about 80 proof. This keeps your taste buds from being overwhelmed and missing the subtle addition of umami the bone and marrow remnants will provide. Now, just put one end of the bone up to your mouth with the other end tilted up at a slight angle and pour your drink down the channel where the marrow once resided. It should flow perfectly into your awaiting mouth, picking up precious bits of umami along the way. You’ll look like you’re playing a college drinking game, but the flavors grab you by the collar and say “I’ve got a mortgage and child support payments I’m trying to forget just long enough to remember what freedom and dreams were like.” Bon appétit and cheers! Roasted Marrow Bones • 2-3 lbs of veal shank marrowbones, split lengthwise • Coarse sea salt • Freshly ground black pepper
• Toasted slices of French bread • Arugula salad with citrus vinaigrette (see below) Put the bones in a roasting pan, marrow side up and roast in a 450° oven for about 20 minutes or until the marrow are giving to the touch and loosening from the bone, but not yet starting to melt away. To eat, scrape the marrow from the bone onto the toast; season it with coarse sea salt. Place a pinch of salad on top; eat immediately. Arugula Salad with Citrus Vinaigrette • 1 tbsp lemon juice • pinch of salt • dash of pepper • 4 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil • dash of red pepper flake • 1 handful arugula, chopped Put everything except the arugula in a small jar and shake like hell for about 2 minutes until it’s smooth and completely mixed. Lightly toss the arugula with the dressing. Longtime food writer and professional chef Mike McJunkin is a native Chattanoogan currently living abroad who has trained chefs, owned and operated restaurants. Join him on Facebook at facebook.com/SushiAndBiscuits
CHATTANOOGAPULSE.COM • JANUARY 28, 2016 • THE PULSE • 23