The Pulse - Vol. 7, Issue 21 by Brewer Media Group

Chattanooga’s Weekly Alternative

Summer 2010

Fun, Sun, Music, Arts and the Great Outdoors FREE • News, Views, Music, Film, Arts & Entertainment • May 27, 2010 • Volume 7, Issue 21 • www.chattanoogapulse.com

President Jim Brewer, II Publisher Zachary Cooper Contributing Editor Janis Hashe News Editor / Art Director Gary Poole Advertising Manager Rhonda Rollins Advertising Sales Rick Leavell, Leif Sawyer, Townes Webb Graphic Design Jennifer Grelier Staff Photographer Louis Lee Contributing Writers Gustavo Arellano, Rob Brezsny Brandon Cochrane, Chuck Crowder Hellcat, Joshua Hurley, Matt Jones Phillip Johnston, Tara Morris, Ernie Paik Rick Pimental-Habib, Ph.D. Stephanie Smith, Alex Teach Ruth Thompson, Colleen Wade Editorial Cartoonist Rick Baldwin Calendar Editor Kathryn Dunn Editorial Interns Elana Acosta, Ashley Miller Copy Assistant Bryanna Burns Videography Josh Lang Contact Info: Phone (423) 648-7857 Fax (423) 648-7860 info@chattanoogapulse.com Calendar Submissions calendar@chattanoogapulse.com The Pulse is published weekly and is distributed throughout the city of Chattanooga and surrounding communities. The Pulse is available free of charge, limited to one copy per reader. No person without written permission from the publishers may take more than one copy per weekly issue. The Pulse may be distributed only by authorized distributors.

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Brewer Media Group 1305 Carter Street Chattanooga, Tennessee 37402 Letters to the editor must include name, address and daytime phone number for verification. The Pulse reserves the right to edit letters for space

2010

cover story

ontents

: AL ER ND se NU ITZ OU Pul AN PF GR The M G JI IN k in N

Chattanooga’s Weekly Alternative

I ee GA t w x ne

MAY

13 SUMMER 2010 By Tara Morris, Ruth Thompson, and Ashley Miller It's The Pulse's annual look at everything fun to do under the sun (and sometimes indoors as well) in Chattanooga and surrounding areas, with a special focus on music and the outdoors. Everything from Nightfall to Riverbend to Bonnaroo to fun in the sun in the great outdoors. Never let it be said by anyone that there's nothing to do in this town.

feature stories 18 GREGG AWESOME...I MEAN...ALLMAN By Hellcat I have to say I was a little nervous to interview a man who has been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and is a legendary badass. But he was one of the nicest people I have ever had the pleasure to pester. He really doesn’t require an introduction.

25 CELEBRATING THE SPIRITUAL ROLAND HAYES By Stephanie Smith Roland Hayes was arguably the first African American concert artist to break through racial barriers, both internationally and at home. He is remembered for his beautiful tenor voice, among many other things.

30 LOST BUT NOT FORGOTTEN By Phillip Johnston This past Sunday, Lost ended. If that means something to you, you may be happy to be reading about the show in lieu of a film review; if it doesn’t mean something to you, you may be tempted to put down the paper...but we ask you not to, and to keep reading.

news & views 5 6 11 22 28 38

PULSE BEATS BEYOND THE HEADLINES SHRINK RAP LIFE IN THE NOOG ON THE BEAT ASK A MEXICAN

everything else 4 5 9 19 20 26 31 32 33 34 36 37

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR CITY COUNCILSCOPE POLICE BLOTTER NEW MUSIC REVIEWS MUSIC CALENDAR A&E CALENDAR NEW IN THEATERS FREE WILL ASTROLOGY JONESIN’ CROSSWORD SPIRITS WITHIN JOY STICK DINING OUT SPOTLIGHT

Letters to the Editor Whole Foods Welcome I’m excited [about Whole Foods coming to Chattanooga] for the simple fact that I won’t have to drive all the way to Nashville for those delicious glutenfree frozen biscuits that taste like they’re from Hardees! I loved Greenlife, but really wanted some of the GF foods only found at Whole Foods. Shari Felix Saving Memorial While reading through Councilman Murphy’s interview I was very surprised to learn that the financial situation with the Tivoli and Memorial is so bad that the city is considering “mothballing” the Memorial. While kudos are due to The Pulse for breaking this news, where has the other media in town been on this story? The Memorial is a major part of the entertainment life of Chattanooga, and the fact that it’s been losing money hand-over-fist to the point where only alcohol can (maybe) save it is something

that should have been shouted from the rooftops. And shame on Mayor Littlefield for his knee-jerk teetotaler idiocy in opposing alcohol sales. If it’s good enough for City Hall, Mr. Mayor, it should be good enough for us “little people”. Cynthia Gleason Normal School Shenanigans Ms. Elliot should be charged with filing a false police report and should be held accountable for her “intentional” allegations [in regards to School Board member Rhonda Thurman]. This smelled when it was announced. I hope Ms. Thurman also files a civil action. Kevin Davis Is Democracy Dying? 8.37 percent voting is fine by me, because I have never in my life met such an over-opinionated and under-educated collection of people as I have here. There are many beautiful people here, there

is lots of art, yet something is kind of creepy in the air. Reminds me of one of the rabbit warrens in Watership Down. If you are of the right ethnicity, breeding, and worship at the right church, you’ll go far here. But you won’t vote. Democracy is not dead because people choose not to vote; Democracy is dead because many people refuse to really truly wake up. Stephen Mayes

Send all letters to the editor and questions to info@chattanoogapulse.com We reserve the right to edit letters for content and space. Please include your full name, city and contact information.

The Pulse | Vol. 7, Issue 21 | May 27, 2010 | www.chattanoogapulse.com

Pulse Beats

Quote Of The Week:

A rundown of the newsy, the notable, and the notorious...

“During hard economic times…to give five people a raise during this time and during this budget, that would be very tough to pass I think.” —Hamilton County School Board Chairman Kenny Smith, on a budget proposal presented to the school board that would give raises to five administrators while at the same time eliminating 46 other positions.

Read 20 Supplies Books to Middle Schools Hamilton County’s Read 20 program has taken a major step toward supplying Hamilton County Middle Schools with new classroom library books. Read 20 in partnership with Kids In Distressed Situations (K.I.D.S.), a consortium that distributes surplus books, is giving each of Hamilton County’s 20 middle schools 1.200 books. The books, designed to improve children’s literacy, have now been distributed by Read 20 to each of the schools. Hamilton County Mayor Claude Ramsey is delighted to learn that Hamilton County middle school students will have additional opportunities to read. “This continues the mission of Read 20 to have children reading on a third grade level by the time they graduate the third grade. We want the lessons learned in elementary school to continue in the upper grades. Our students should not only develop a love for reading but an appreciation of how reading will enable them to earn the good jobs we are working every day to bring to Hamilton County,” he says. Hamilton County Schools Superintendent Dr. Jim Scales says, “We greatly appreciate the partnership of Read 20 and K.I.D.S. in furthering the literacy levels of our students. We know that if our children don’t have books they won’t read. Now, thanks to Read 20 and K.I.D.S., we have 24,000 opportunities for improved reading among our middle school students.” The books are now being inserted into English and Literary Arts middle-school classrooms for dedicated use by teachers and children when the new school year begins this August. Read 20 Chief Reading Officer Shawn

Kurrelmeier-Lee is excited children will be able to not only increase their reading skills with the various novels available to them, but also that teachers will be able to use the fiction as the basis for classroom lessons. “For two weeks this summer, Hamilton County teachers will be trained in the best way through writers’ workshops to use this gift to enrich their classes in the upcoming school year.”

Here is one of the more interesting agenda items set to be discussed at the Tuesday, June 1 meeting of the Chattanooga City Council. 13. Recognition of Persons Wishing to Address the Council on Non-Agenda Matters.

Tennessee Moves up 19 Spots as Bicycle Friendly State The League of American Bicyclists announced last week their third annual Bicycle Friendly State (BFS) rankings. Tennessee is one of the states that greatly improved our ranking by jumping 19 slots in one year. The state moved to 24th place this year from a number 43 ranking in 2009. “The improvement in Tennessee’s ranking is due in large part to the better collaboration among TDOT, regional and municipal planners, legislators, advocates, and sharing of information across the state,” says Tom Evans, Founder and Secretary/Treasurer of Bike Walk Tennessee. “We’ll use the 2010 rankings and feedback as a guide to prioritize efforts for future improvements.”

Chattanooga has been recognized as a bronze-level Bicycle Friendly Community by the League since 2003. “We’ve seen a significant increase in the number of bicyclists using our roads and trails locally and statewide,” says Outdoor Chattanooga Bicycle Coordinator Philip Pugliese. “Recognition on the state level helps us create a more positive environment from which to attract businesses and tourism. For instance, September’s Pro Walk/Pro Bike conference in Chattanooga will focus national attention from over 600 transportation professionals on our city and state.” Other southeastern states that showed improvement were Florida, which jumped 22 slots and Virginia, which jumped five.

One of the more common refrains one hears when people get together and start discussing local politics is, “They just don’t understand what’s going on!” Aside from the fact that “they” are not omniscient people who are up-to-date on every single thing happening in the city 24/7, the best response to that statement is, “Well, why don’t you go TELL them?” Which is why at the end of every council meeting, anyone can have three minutes to address the entire body about anything on their mind, as long as it wasn’t something already covered in the agenda for that meeting. If you have a complaint, compliment, suggestion or even a beef with the city, this is you time to get the undivided attention of all nine council members (and the City Attorney, to boot). The Chattanooga City Council meets each Tuesday at 6 p.m. in the City Council Building at 1000 Lindsay St. For more information on the agenda and minutes from past meetings, visit www. Chattanooga.gov/City_Council/110_Agenda.asp

www.chattanoogapulse.com | May 27, 2010 | Vol. 7, Issue 21 | The Pulse

Beyond The Headlines

Looking More Deeply at The Passage

By Janis Hashe

“In the renovation work, more lighting and railings have been added, ensuring increased safety for The Passage’s visitors.”

f you haven’t walked through the Riverfront’s reopened The Passage, now might be the time to do it. After being closed in 2008 for safety reasons, and with repair bills mounting to almost $2 million, the tribute to Chattanooga’s Cherokee history reopened in April. I spent some time at The Passage with Ann Coulter, principal, Kennedy Coulter Rushing & Watson, LLC, and one of the people most involved in the creation of The Passage. Coulter had written a courteous e-mail response to The Pulse after a “Beyond

The Pulse | Vol. 7, Issue 21 | May 27, 2010 | www.chattanoogapulse.com

the Headlines” piece published last year questioned whether the attraction should be treated as another “play in the water” feature if it was intended as a memorial to the Trail of Tears. Coulter corrected this idea, noting that from the beginning, the Cherokee artists and representatives of the Cherokee nation had wanted The Passage to be used and enjoyed by people—not looked at as a solemn memorial. Yet Coulter agrees that more should be done to draw visitors’ attention to the meaning of the art contained within The Passage, as well as the intent of the design. First, she explains, the use of water was very important, because the Cherokee saying, “I had to go back to the water,” means returning to their source of spirituality. Then, she points out, the number seven is sacred to the Cherokee, and there are many uses of seven in the design, from the seven “doors” at the beginning of The Passage, where water flows down symbolizing the tears of the Cherokee at the time of their removal from their land, to the seven large plaques adorning the walls, to the many seven-pointed stars used throughout. The plaques, all created by Cherokee artists, incorporate “pre-history, precontact” symbols, all found in excavations within 15 miles of where The Passage

stands. The pool into which water flows “symbolizes the Cherokee’s arrival at their new home in the West, and the settling in and coming to terms with the new place,” she says. “The Pleiades, called by the Cherokee ‘The Seven Brothers’, are also sacred,” Coulter notes, “and the constellation is also represented in various ways in the art works.” This is especially apparent in the large cut-steel mural at the bottom of The Passage, showing Cherokee men playing stickball. Finally, the number seven also shows up in the seven water jets returning The Passage’s water to the Tennessee. In the renovation work, more lighting and railings have been added, ensuring increased safety for The Passage’s visitors. Coulter’s explanation has increased my own understanding of its meaning, and I appreciate what the Cherokee have said about those visiting the site. But as I look down at the families and couples paddling in the water, not one of which is pausing to read about what they are walking on, I can’t help feeling more should be done to illuminate the meaning for visitors. “I do feel it’s important that the city knows what it has here,” Coulter says. “This is one of the largest installations of Native American art in the country.”

www.chattanoogapulse.com | May 27, 2010 | Vol. 7, Issue 21 | The Pulse

The Pulse | Vol. 7, Issue 21 | May 27, 2010 | www.chattanoogapulse.com

A weekly roundup of the newsworthy, notable and often head-scratching stories gleaned from police reports from the Chattanooga Police Department, the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office, the Bradley County Sheriff’s Department and the Dalton Police Department.

• In spite of many a mother claiming otherwise, most teenagers would not jump off a bridge if their friends told them to. However, jumping off the top of a moving riverboat is apparently a different story. A teenager on a field trip from Williamson County did just that, at the urging of his friends who videotaped the leap to post on YouTube. Luckily, the teen narrowly escaped serious injury from the boat’s propellers as the riverboat made a sharp turn to fish him out of the river. School officials have apologized to the riverboat captain, and have punished the riverdiving teen. • Speaking of teen misbehavior, two recent high school graduates ended up delaying the start of another school’s graduation ceremony. A post-graduation celebration got out of hand for two seniors after commencement at the McKenzie

Arena. The two students started arguing over ten dollars owed by one student to another. Off-duty officers attending the ceremony broke up the fight but when the students were told to leave, one refused and began yelling, cursing and drawing a crowd. Police took him into custody and charged him with disorderly conduct, but in the process the altercation made it necessary to delay the entrance of Red Bank students and parents for their commencement. • While the state (and the country) continuously debate over where it is legal to carry a sidearm, nearly everyone agrees that banks are not such a place. However, that message had apparently not gotten through to one customer of a Lee Highway bank branch, who came into the building openly displaying a pistol in a holster. Bank officials told police that the man came in two days in row with the weapon in plain view, and when confronted by a security guard, allegedly said, “The NRA will take care of this.” Instead, the bank took care of the

The List How To Make a Mojito

problem by closing the man’s accounts and informing police that he is not welcome back in the bank. • And if you don’t want to be featured in a future edition of The Police Blotter, then you should make sure to not mix alcohol and driving. The Chattanooga Police Department’s DUI Unit will be conducting a road-side sobriety checkpoint near the Tennessee/Georgia state line on Thursday, with another sobriety checkpoint planned for Hixson on Friday. The initiative is in participation of the Governor’s Highway Safety Office event, “Hands Across the Border”, a multi-agency campaign focused on DUI enforcement.

1. Place four mint leaves into a tall cocktail glass. 2. Squeeze about 2 ounces of juice from a cut lime into the glass. 3. Add 1 teaspoon powdered sugar. 4. Gently mash (muddle) the ingredients together with the back of a spoon. 5. Add crushed ice and 2 ounces white rum, then stir. 6. Top off with 2 ounces club soda. With warm weather upon us, the Cuban Mojito becomes a popular cold beverage with the right touch of sweetness. So sit back, relax, and enjoy a nice refreshing adult beverage or two.

www.chattanoogapulse.com | May 27, 2010 | Vol. 7, Issue 21 | The Pulse

The Pulse | Vol. 7, Issue 21 | May 27, 2010 | www.chattanoogapulse.com

Shrink Rap

By Rick Pimental-Habib, Ph.D

Your Life’s Journey, Part 2 I

believe that everything begins with a thought—a thought filled with both imagination and inspiration. Winston Churchill said, “We create our universe as we go along,” and I believe this is exactly what he meant. Take your life, for instance. The Law of Attraction theory would posit that everything about the life you are living began with a conscious (or unconscious) desire, your thoughts manifesting, ultimately, into your reality… perhaps precisely as you envisioned, or perhaps in a surprising way. You’ve read about this before in this column: The power of your deliberate and mindful thoughts becoming your words, words becoming actions, actions leading to your reality, your universe. The beauty of this is the empowerment it gives us. We are empowered to get ourselves into hot water, absolutely! But we are also empowered to emerge, to thrive and grow with all that we—and our life partner, the universe—want for ourselves. And so we must think, ponder, meditate, and pray carefully; asking for what we want, drawing toward us the people and the experiences we desire, and using our imagination to feel what it would be like to have such a life. Then topping it off with gratitude. Last week I shared with you some inspiring words from author and poet David Whyte. I continue to be moved by his philosophies and understandings of human existence and relationships. And

as I think about life, with all its diversity, its dance between the smooth comforts of predictability and the risky adventures of the unknown, I find inspiration and thought-provoking guidance once again in his words. To paraphrase Whyte’s view on this very topic: he says that life always has a hard and sharp edge to it, a “cyclical visitation to loss, grief, defeat, that no one is immune to.” It is always tempting to try and create a life which is solely based on order. But where is our choice between the wilder shores of existence and the life of shelter and ease? Perhaps human beings are meant to live in both worlds. He continues, “The life of insulation, of being safe is absolutely necessary for human beings. But without stepping out of that house at regular intervals, going out into the fresh air; without getting caught in the storm, without getting cold and wet, without feeling hungry, one begins to lose their sense of frontier in life, their sense of edge in their own explorations. Some sense of migration or journey is absolutely necessary. One of the great challenges of relationship is to keep the edge of the unknown alive, and to cultivate a slight, perhaps unspoken edge of unpredictability, in order to fill your life with richness and depth.” Further inspiration on this topic came to me in the form of the newsletter of a colleague of mine, Dr. Lilan Laishley (www.laishley.com) She included a poem by Patricia Lynn Reilly called “Imagine a Woman.” It has such universal application

that I want to share with you a revised version of this poem that I think you may find inspiring, also. Imagine a person who is interested and participates in his or her own life. Someone who embraces life as teacher, healer, and challenge. Who is grateful for the ordinary moments of beauty and grace. Imagine a person who meets each challenge with creativity. And who takes action on their own behalf with clarity and strength. Imagine a person who tells the truth. A person who expresses feelings clearly and directly. Imagine a person who follows their creative impulses. A person who refuses to color inside somebody else's lines. A person who remains loyal to himself. Regardless. Imagine yourself as this person. I hope you’ve found some inspiration here. Until next week, I leave you with the following meditation, with the encouragement to re-visit it from time to time, or perhaps each morning, or each night just before sleep: Do I belong or feel abandoned? Can I look at my life and say, This is where I stand. I am here, present, with the consequence of love, in mindful relationship with all the things and people in my life. I have a sense of a divine power greater than myself, even if my journey has not yet brought me clarity about this. My eyes, long closed, are now opening.

“One of the great challenges of relationship is to keep the edge of the unknown alive, and to cultivate a slight, perhaps unspoken edge of unpredictability, in order to fill your life with richness and depth.” Dr. Rick Pimental-Habib, Ph.D., is a psychotherapist, minister, and educator, in private practice in Chattanooga, and the author of “Empowering the Tribe” and “The Power of a Partner.” Visit his new wellness center, Well Nest, at www.WellNestChattanooga.com, and his website at www.DrRPH.com

www.chattanoogapulse.com | May 27, 2010 | Vol. 7, Issue 21 | The Pulse

The Pulse | Vol. 7, Issue 21 | May 27, 2010 | www.chattanoogapulse.com

Cover Story

Summer 2010 It's The Pulse's annual look at everything fun to do under the sun (and sometimes indoors as well) in Chattanooga and surrounding areas, with a special focus on music and the outdoors. Never let it be said there's nothing to do in this town.

King of the (Nightfall) Party T

here are a few opening events in Chattanooga that I can always count on to kick off summer. The Chattanooga Lookouts, Chattanooga Market and, with our fears dissolved of a No Nightfall season, my third is our Nightfall Concert Series.

By Tara Morris

“Nightfall provides a different regional, national, or worldwide act each Friday night as well as a local opener.”

Sweaty walks across the Veterans Bridge, crossing through downtown, and then onto Miller Plaza to be surrounded by dogs, strollers, motorcycles, and music are guaranteed. The older couple that dances every week reminding you what love is about, the one large dog in a T-shirt, small children dancing on stage, and seeing Steven Bates in the front row…this and the taste of Big River beer sparks a sense of security and happiness that only comes around this time of year. Even when I did not live downtown I remember enjoying Nightfall before they had wristbands and it astonishes me when I talk to people who live in town and have not made to Miller Plaza on a Friday night. Where are you? What are you doing? How could you be anywhere else? It just don’t make no sense! If you answered any of these questions with “Uh…uhh,” then consider this your opportunity to turn your life around. It would be one thing if the same metal/ country/indie/pop/jazz/emo band played each week, but this is not the case, my friend. Nightfall provides a different regional, national, or worldwide act each

Friday night as well as a local opener. This week is your chance to introduce yourself, soak up the energy and dance with many of your neighbors while listening to “The King of The Party”. Big Sam’s Funky Nation is led by Big Sam Williams, formerly the trombonist for the Dirty Dozen Brass Band. Now with this in mind, I want to take you back in time to a strange late June night in Manchester, TN. I had meandered through the dark to find a tent full of crazy people, instruments, and the wildest conga line I had ever encountered. Leading this line of excitement was The Dirty Dozen Brass Band. DDBB has been playing for more than 30 years and is a world-famous music machine. Big Sam, born and raised in New Orleans joined DDBB as a teenager and has been spreading his brand of funky brass love ever since. I imagine anyone who has been a part of this group would surely get your booty shakin’ and with song titles such as “Krunked Up”, “See Me Dance”, and “Shake Yo Thang”, this prediction will be supported.

Big Sam’s Funky Nation has been sharing their high-energy style since 2001 and joining Big Sam is an extremely talented group of trained musicians whose Funky Nation brings a horn-heavy front section, the improv style of jazz, and a rock sensibility. Not too shabby for a free show in Chattanooga on a Friday night! Big Sam and his Funky Nation Band are hitting the ceiling and bringing Chattanooga the soul-driven music that is needed to kick off our 2010 Night Fall Concert Series. If you gather for the beer, the stroller, the dog, the motorcycle, or all on any level, just remember it’s the amazing effort and eclectic music that keeps us coming back for more. And the port-o-potties aren’t too bad anymore, either. See ya down there!

Big Sam’s Funky Nation Friday, May 28 8 p.m. (opening act The Micks, 7 p.m.) Miller Plaza, downtown www.nightfallchattanooga.com

Spotlight: Jacuzzi Boys @ Discoteca June 19 Pitchfork’s Amy Granzin described their 2009 single, ‘’The Countess’’, like this: “A bass drum drives the song straight and steady, but heavy reverb makes the beats sound like they’re volleying off damp dungeon walls at unpredictable angles, a sultry and sinister atmosphere enhanced by ghostly surf guitar lines.” Hailing from Miami, Jacuzzi Boys are making waves on the indie circuit and they are making their way to Discoteca on Saturday, June 19. We say, slip into the Jacuzzi...it’s warm and oh-so bubbly.

www.chattanoogapulse.com | May 27, 2010 | Vol. 7, Issue 21 | The Pulse

Summer 2010

Find Your Inner Outer Few—if any—people in Chattanooga know more about what’s happening in our own Great Outdoors than Ruth Thompson, Outdoor Chattanooga Events Coordinator. So we persuaded her to give us the scoop for summer activities. Cut this one out and put it on your fridge…

By Ruth Thompson

“Outdoor competitions pepper our yearly events calendars with trail races, bicycle races, marathons, adventure races and triathlons.”

o you want to get outside and play? You live in one of the best places in the country to do it. No experience is required—just a willingness to put on some sneakers and get dirty, wet and maybe a little bit sunburned. Since Outdoor Chattanooga began working seriously at promoting our city as an outdoor destination in 2003, local enthusiasts and organizations have built or improved close to 100 miles of hiking and mountain biking trails, opened the Tennessee Riverwalk and constructed new sections of greenway along South Chickamauga and North Chickamauga creeks. We have become a Bicycle Friendly Community, and we pulled together to stop a high-rise development and preserve 92 acres of wooded land on Stringers Ridge. Outdoor competitions pepper our yearly events calendars with trail races, bicycle races, marathons, adventure races and triathlons. This summer’s Chattanooga Dragon Boat

The Pulse | Vol. 7, Issue 21 | May 27, 2010 | www.chattanoogapulse.com

Festival will attract more than 50 teams and bring national dragon boat racing to Chattanooga for the first time. The Head of the Hooch rowing regatta is now the largest single-day regatta in the U.S. If you haven’t ventured to the downtown waterfront to see the spectacle on the first Saturday in November, you’ve missed one of the best free shows in town. Chattanooga has sparked the interest of the national outdoor community, so much so that we’ve attracted two national conferences for 2010. Pro Walk/Pro Bike will bring several hundred transportation professionals from the U.S. to town in September, all of whom will be focused on planning and developing facilities for bicycling and walking. In November, American Trails will host their biennial conference. Their 600 or so attendees will learn about advocating and supporting trails for all users, including hikers, paddlers, cyclists, equestrians, and Off-highway Vehicle (OHV) users. These conventioneers will spend a considerable amount of time exploring our trails, rivers, and bicycle paths. They will be impressed. Outdoor enthusiasts contribute millions of dollars to Chattanooga’s tourism economy every year. Add hunters and anglers to the equation and we have a thriving outdoor industry that has drawn the attention of communities like Dayton, OH, Duluth, MN and neighboring Rome, GA, all of whom are working on outdoor initiatives like Outdoor Chattanooga. As a division of the City of Chattanooga’s Parks and Recreation department, Outdoor Chattanooga is an unusual entity. Part visitors’ bureau, chamber of commerce and recreation center, the department works from a very

simple concept. Executive Director Philip Grymes says it best: “When people get outside to play in the outdoors they fall in love with the outdoors. What follows is a sense of stewardship toward their favorite mountain, trail, or river, and an incurable need to start purchasing gear. They talk their friends into coming outside to play, too, and before you know it, you have a community that has a vested interest in their playground.” There are hundreds of activities, programs and events happening in Chattanooga this summer, all designed to get you outdoors. So what are you waiting for? Let’s play!

Summer 2010 Outdoor Chattanooga programs Outdoor Chattanooga operates from two facilities, their LEED-certified building in Coolidge Park and a programs facility at Greenway Farm in Hixson. From both locations, the public can access free and low cost activities that are geared towards people of all ages. During the spring, summer and fall, OC will offer free hikes, bicycle rides, workshops or low-cost paddling trips every week as a way to bring the public closer to the outdoors www.outdoorchattanooga.com (423) 643-6888 Visit their Coolidge Park facility: 200 River St. Open M-F, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday OutVentures Join Outdoor Chattanooga on Thursday evenings for free guided hikes, bicycle safety and maintenance clinics, standup paddleboard demos and climbing clinics. May – Sept. Thursdays, 6 p.m. Outdoor Chattanooga - Coolidge Park or Greenway Farm Cost: Free Chickamauga Battlefield Bicycle Rides These free, leisurely guided rides feature the history and human drama from the Battle of Chickamauga. May – Oct. 3rd Saturday of each month 9:30 a.m. Chickamauga Battlefield Visitors Center Cost: Free Moccasin Bend Bicycle Rides The National Park Service will provide insight to the history and future of Moccasin Bend National Park in a group ride from Coolidge Park and out onto the Bend. June – Aug. 2nd Thursday of each month 6 p.m. Outdoor Chattanooga - Coolidge Park Cost: Free Reservations Required. Bike2Work Chattanooga’s bicycle commuters get together for free coffee, breakfast, and traffic tales. May – October 1st Friday of each month. 7-8:30 a.m. South end of the Walnut St. Bridge Cost: Free Downtown Kayak Trips These two-hour beginner friendly tours explore downtown Chattanooga’s natural and

built resources from a water level view. June – Sept. Friday and Saturday, 9 a.m. Outdoor Chattanooga - Coolidge Park Cost: $35, includes equipment and guide Reservations Required. Guided Bicycle Tours Geared toward people who are unfamiliar with downtown Chattanooga, these guided bicycle rides will travel on the Tennessee Riverwalk, from downtown to Amnicola Marsh. May – Aug. Saturdays, 1:30 p.m. Outdoor Chattanooga - Coolidge Park Cost: $35, includes bicycle, helmet and guide Rock/Creek Kayak Adventures Day trips and overnight excursions to explore area lakes and rivers. Some paddling experience required. May – Oct. Outdoor Chattanooga - Coolidge Park or Greenway Farm Cost: $45 - $150 Includes equipment, guides, and transportation Rapid Learning Roll Practice Kids ages 8-18 and their families can learn how to paddle kayaks with the Rapid Learning Whitewater Kids Club. June – Sept. Tuesdays, 6-8 p.m. Outdoor Chattanooga - Greenway Farm Cost: $5 per session $50 per year individual/$75 per year family Bike to Riverbend, 2010 The easiest and quickest way to get to the Riverbend Festival is by bicycle. The Outdoor Chattanooga Bicycle Valet will provide free bicycle parking (and a private porta john) on the south end of the Walnut St. Bridge from 5 pm to midnight, every night of the festival except Monday. Ride in from the North Shore or the Southside. Park your car and ride the festival via the TN Riverwalk. All parking lots from the Boathouse to the Riverpark will be open and patrolled. River Rocks Chattanooga, 2010 In October, 2010, Chattanooga will host the first ever River Rocks Outdoor Festival. The 10-day event will feature a full schedule of guided activities, outdoor competitions, music, outdoor films, food and general muddy mayhem for outdoor enthusiasts of every level. Beneficiaries will be local land trusts and conservation organizations. www.riverrockschattanooga.com

www.chattanoogapulse.com | May 27, 2010 | Vol. 7, Issue 21 | The Pulse

Summer 2010

Laissez the Bonnaroo Temps Rouler

By Ashley Miller

f Bonnaroo could be summed up in a single sentence, this is what it would read: “Four-day, multi-stage camping festival held on a 700-acre farm in Manchester, Tennessee.” Essentially, Bonnaroo is every music junkie’s dream (if you’re not too snotty) —which is probably why, currently, Stage 4 tickets—the only tickets available—cost $249.50. While this might seem pricey, keep in mind that there is music being played, somewhere, 24 hours a day, four days straight. But if the price is too high, volunteering is a great way to get your ticket paid for. Volunteers also have separate showers and sleeping quarters. Go being involved! Aside from the cost, the good news about Bonnaroo is that it is set up to appeal to a wide variety of music listeners. Let’s follow this three-tier system to categorize such a myriad of musicians: The Big Timers (everyone knows them—even your uncool parents), The Middle Men (you might know, you might not), The Lesser Knowns (unless you follow the music scene religiously, you won’t know ’em).

The Pulse | Vol. 7, Issue 21 | May 27, 2010 | www.chattanoogapulse.com

The Big Timers: Dave Matthews Band, Kings of Leon, Stevie Wonder, Jay-Z, Conan O’Brien, Tenacious D, Weezer, The Flaming Lips, Norah Jones, Jeff Beck, John Fogerty The Middle Men: Regina Spektor, Phoenix, Ween, They Might Be Giants, The Crystal Method, The xx, The Melvins, Tokyo Police Club, The Black Keys, Dropkick Murphys, She & Him The Lesser Knowns: The Young Veins, Everest, Tiny Animas, Warpaint, The Middle East, The Devil Makes Three, The Moondoggies, Morning Teleportation, Red Cortez, Nneka Here are some interesting facts about Bonnaroo: the word bonnaroo means, “a really good time.” The festival was first held in 2002 (h’mm, seemed older than that) as a place for jam bands. Centeroo (the main gathering place) is open 24 hours a day during the festival. It was named best festival of 2008 by Rolling Stone. But probably the coolest, most awesome, [insert hip word of praise here] is the fact that it is located in Tennessee (and Manchester, of all places)! If you ever found yourself complaining that nothing ever happens in the #1 meth-making state in America (guilty as charged—to the whining, not the meth), well, it’s time to shut-up and enjoy some music!

Summer 2010

Bending, Unplugging and Afterbending I

By Ashley Miller

“And in case you just don’t want the fun to end, there’s Afterbend (hosted by The Pulse) at the First Tennessee Pavilion the last night of the festival."

t’s that time again, folks. That’s right—it’s Riverbend! As of 1981 (yes, this is the Bend’s 30th year), Riverbend has been bringing it to Chattanooga. This nine-day-festival ranks in the top 10 percent of all American festivals and only costs $30 for the entire festival (beat that, Bonnaroo). Riverbend consists of five stages, offering a diverse selection of classic rock, jam bands, country musicians, urban artists and, of course, bluegrass! Past notable artists include Willie Nelson, Three Dog Night, ZZ Top, America, The Steve Miller Band, Kid Rock, Boyz II Men, LL Cool J, and Lynyrd Skynyrd (talk about selection). This year’s big names include Allison Krauss, Sheryl Crow, The Charlie Daniels Band, George Clinton, The Whigs, Joan Osborne and Kenny Neal (at the Strut). But getting those big names is difficult, and it’s up to Jeff Styles, the talent coordinator and self-proclaimed music snob, to find this wide selection. This year, the festival is promoting the Chattanooga Symphony (playing Sunday night), which will be covering an entire “mystery” rock album. Joining them will be Joan Osborne

and The Waybacks. This one-time-only event involved writing charts for the full rock score. Keep in mind, according to Styles, “This is gonna be the album.” Through the symphony and other extras, Riverbend is expanding its ever-growing fan club. This is most likely because, as Styles so bluntly stated, “We have a hell of a lineup for the price.” But it could also be because Riverbend is not only a music event; it’s a community event. Through “extra” events like the Eat and Greet and Bend Unplugged, Riverbend is widening and increasing its involvement in the community, which is something, says Styles, which is essential in “getting people together to celebrate arts and community.” In attempting to work against the stereotype of too much Southern rock and too much country, Riverbend is bringing in a troupe of Korean dancers and a Native American show. Shows begin nightly (usually) at 5 p.m., and gates open at 4:30 p.m. every night. It costs $10 per night to bring a blanket and crash on the lawn, wristbands must be worn for the

purchase of alcohol, they stop selling drinks 15 minutes before closing, and children under 10 are admitted free. Otherwise, all you need to know is the location: Riverfront Parkway, behind the Aquarium. And in case you just don’t want the fun to end, there’s Afterbend (hosted by The Pulse) at the First Tennessee Pavilion. This after-party starts the last night of the festival at 11 p.m. and features 7 Walkers (a jam band including drummer Bill Kreutzmann of The Grateful Dead), Papa Mali, bassist Reed Mathis of Tea Leaf Green and JFJO, and the multi-talented Matt Hubbard of Willie Nelson and Friends. This jam session will also feature members of Dumpstafunk. Tickets cost $18 ($15 with a Riverbend pin) and can be purchased at www. SubversiveActivities.com. The good news: admission pins are only $30 (and can be purchased at your local Kangeroo convenience store or online), and the artists play rain or shine. The bad news: Shirt and shoes required. For more information, go to www.riverbend. com or call (423) 756-2211.

Spotlight: Do Ya Hear We June 3-6 — Various Venues This punk-fest brings bands together from as far away as L.A. and as close as your back yard. Chicago, Kansas City, San Francisco and Milwaukee are among the other cities with exports arriving here. You're either in-the-know or not on this three-day event that takes place at multiple venues...JJ's Bohemia, Discoteca, Sluggo's and there's even a picnic planned. One highlight on the ticket, returning to the 'Noog after an appearance at JJ's Bohemia a while back is Shellshag. The Brooklynd-based duo has a new(ish) release out that is getting a lot of attention these days. This is a gem and only looks to be growing in the strength of its line-up.

www.chattanoogapulse.com | May 27, 2010 | Vol. 7, Issue 21 | The Pulse

Music Feature

By Hellcat

Gregg Awesome…I Mean…Allman

have to say I was a little nervous to interview a man who has been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and is a legendary badass. But he was one of the nicest people I have ever had the pleasure to pester. He really doesn’t require an introduction. Let’s get to it. Hellcat: You’ve been doing this for over 40 years. Did you ever think that this rock-n-roll business would turn into a successful career and you’d still be touring at 62? Gregg Allman: Boy, I really didn’t. I was a “Doubting Thomas”, I always was, and I still am. I told my brother in 1965, when we left home that we weren’t going to make enough money to pay rent. He said, not to worry, we were the best band in Daytona, and I said, yeah, but that’s Daytona Beach. No pun intended, but everybody and their damn brother had a band. They had to wait for me to graduate high school before we could go, which they didn’t like too much, but that’s one good thing about being in a band with your brother, because I could pretty much make him wait. Plus, I thought it was important to graduate, because if this didn’t work out, I wanted to be a dental surgeon. HC: Well, I’m so glad you didn’t. GA: So am I! I have a buddy of mine that lives down the street from me, and he’s a dental surgeon. One morning he called me at home and told me that I needed to come down to his office. He told me he would make it worth my while, so I

went. When I got there he took me to his office to show me a patient. He had an old lady, back there, all gassed up, with her mouth hanging open, and he said to take a good look. She had teeth growing out of the roof of her mouth, and had apparently just let it go for a long time. It wasn’t anything you’d want to look at. He said, “See, this is what you would be doing everyday, and this is what you would have been looking at. This is what I’m doing, all afternoon.” It really hit home then, that I was glad I went in the direction I did. HC: Ha! I imagine you would be. What’s your favorite song you’ve written and why? GA: The first one that I’ve ever written and didn’t throw in the garbage was “Melissa”, so that one might be it. It was my brother’s favorite song. The first 300 or so hit the round file. It’s not exactly a gift given to you by your daddy, you know? I take that back, it might be, I didn’t really know my dad, he died when I was two, so I don’t know, he might have been a singer. I didn’t really miss out on anything. I mean, all my friends’ dads were loud and would bust up in the house late and night and yell or break things, so I was glad I didn’t have one of those at home. I guess I may have missed out when all my friends and their dads started joining up with the Cub Scouts, and I had to pass, but look how that turned out, so I suppose it wasn’t too bad that I had to pass it up. HC: Your favorite live song? GA: The next one. I have a lot of favorites to play. I have a new album coming out in January, and some of those songs are probably my favorite, because they are new and fresh to me. But I can’t play all the new songs, because people are afraid my fans will record it or leak it out. Which I don’t really agree with. I mean, we used to search people for recording devices, but I didn’t really see the point, so we don’t do that now. I think it’s more about the live experience. Real fans, even if they record your show, are still going to buy the album to have a clean recording. The concert bootlegs, I believe, are just for the experience, to collect, or tell their friends, “Hey, do you have the one at Red Rocks? I do.” HC: Having lived in California, what are your thoughts on the upcoming November vote to legalize the recreational use of marijuana?

The Pulse | Vol. 7, Issue 21 | May 27, 2010 | www.chattanoogapulse.com

GA: Well, I have been clean and sober for 15 years, in November, but there was a time when all I did was smoke a little pot. I think it’s harmless. I’m all for it. It’s better than alcohol, that’s for sure. I bet alcohol sales will plummet. Because, even if you drink, you don’t need to drink as much if you’ve been smoking pot. Everyone says that pot leads to other things, but that’s bullshit. I’m sorry, but it is. You are born an addict. HC: You were in the movie Rush, what was that like? You were scary. GA: I was just curious to try out other facets of the entertainment industry. I just did what they told me. I’m not like that at all, but I take that as a compliment. I mean, the Brokeback Mountain guy isn’t a homosexual, although I still don’t look at him the same. HC: The Hammond B-3 organ is one of your signature instruments. Tell me about it. GA: My brother called me up and wanted me to join his band, but before he got off the phone, he said, “Oh, and by the way, I need you to play a Hammond.” I was, like, “What the hell?” But sure enough, when I got there they blindfolded me and led me into a room where they had a brand new 69’ B-3. I’ve still got it. HC: What are you listening to now? Anything new? GA: Jimmy Smith, Miles Davis, jazz, still learning from those. Kings of Leon. HC: Anyone you’d like to work with? GA: Sure, there are hundreds of them. HC: What about Kings of Leon? GA: I don’t know where I’d fit in, but I would do my best and definitely give it a chance if they’d have me. HC: What can you tell me about your current music? GA: It’s good old, butt-bumping, rock and roll.

Gregg Allman and Band $35 7:30 p.m. Friday, May 28 First Tennessee Pavilion, 1829 Carter St. (423) 642-TIXS. www.chattanoogaonstage.com

New Music Reviews

By Stephanie Smith & Ernie Paik

Cadillac Sky

Letters in the Deep

New Slaves

(Dualtone Music Group)

(The Social Registry)

The Texas-based musicians Cadillac Sky have just released their third album, entitled Letters in the Deep. Letters in the Deep was recorded at Akron Analog, the personal studio of guitarist/producer Dan Auerbach of the acclaimed rock band The Black Keys, and is distributed by Dualtone Music Group, Inc. out of Nashville. Band members are lead singer/songwriter Bryan Simpson, Matt Menefee, Andrew Moritz, Ross Holmes and David Mayfield, each of whom plays no fewer than three instruments on the album. Backup vocals and instrumentation are provided by Auerbach, All Moss, Mike Harris, Brett Moore, Michael Ford Jr., Daniel Rice and Aaron Mandalak. Letters in the Deep is about silent, sometimes pitiful and always heartbreaking suffering. Titles like “Trapped Under the Ice,” “Hangman,” “Tired Old Phrases,” and “Pitiful Waltz” give you some indication of what to expect when you pick up the CD and when you listen you are not disappointed. The gentlemen in these three- to four-minute stories are clearly reaching out for love and not finding it—the theme of many a bluegrass song. But that is where the connection to traditional bluegrass ends. Cadillac Sky’s music is not bluegrass; the band’s roots may have started there, but the end result is a sound all their own. The addition of a piano is at times startling, and the electric guitar and violin are more likely to creep you out than to comfort you—but perhaps that’s the point. Fans of The Avett Brothers will identify with Cadillac Sky’s bluegrass/crossover sound. Some songs, like “Break My Heart Again” and “Pitiful Waltz” will remind listeners of the O, Brother, Where Art Thou? soundtrack, but in general bluegrass purists will be dissatisfied. The whole album has a raw overplucked and underprocessed sound, which the band attributes to their equipment—picks, strings, guitars and all. There is also a footnote in the album cover that says “all songs on this album were recorded live in the studio with minimal overdubs to obtain the sound and feel of old time bluegrass music.” While the attribution to “old time bluegrass music” may be a bit overstated, there is an honest quality to the sound that the band is clearly proud of and that may give the listener hope; Cadillac Sky may just be the band you have to hear in person to appreciate. —SS

The music of the blistering, avant-garde NYC outfit Zs made an unexpected appearance on Howard Stern’s radio show a few years ago, and it was met with puzzled reactions, laughter, uneasy anticipation, and Stern’s own priceless quote, “It’s mood music…if you’re in a mental home.” Apart from the dismissive attitude, the reactions from Stern and company are totally valid—this is music that strives to be distinctive, spontaneous, and mystifying and to deliver deeply felt visceral jolts and thrashings. Earlier Zs material had a sort of herky-jerky, ultratight, downtown avant-jazz approach, but since then, the group has evolved into something that’s even harder to pin down; Zs can still make jaws drop, but now it’s more with a mind-melting intensity rather than precise synchronicity. Its newest release is the 70-minute sonic juggernaut New Slaves, and it’s a doozy—it’s simultaneously crowded and expansive, with qualities from minimalism and noise yet without squaring falling into any particular camp. The album’s opener, “Concert Black,” uses tense guitar sounds—string scrapes and harmonics—with urgent tapping in the background and frantically climbing electronic tones, and the track segues into “Acres of Skin,” with a tribal rhythm, a distorted wailing saxophone, and guitars that sound like a damaged gamelan orchestra. “Gentleman Amateur” pummels with a thick sonic concoction featuring noisy sample loops, and “Don’t Touch Me” begins with some incomprehensible words seemingly spoken through a megaphone before whipping up a rare sound; it scurries like an injured creature on uppers, but with an almost effervescent quality to it. “Masonry” could nearly have been a pleasant song, with marimba melodies and cascades, but a stern, forboding beat makes it a nerve-wracking track. The album’s centerpiece and burning core is the 20-minute title track, which is a bit of an endurance test; uninitiated listeners may find it to be unlistenable, but those who crave unrelenting, brutal, unconventional music will likely be drawn to it. In a way, it combines the oppressive repetition of Swans with an evil-sounding version of Captain Beefheart and His Magic Band; past the halfway point, there’s one piercing note that’s repeated for several minutes, and the song eventually melts down into total cacophony. New Slaves ends in cool-down mode with the two-part “Black Crown Ceremony,” with a more ambient approach and disorienting sax wanderings; there’s a shroud of mystery to it, leaving listeners on edge, waiting for an explosion that may or may not come. The ending might be a let-down after the fury of the rest of the album, but all-inall, Zs has created a remarkable, uncompromising, and penetrating album. Also, consider this: the band’s music is so odd and intense that it made even Howard Stern uncomfortable. —EP

www.chattanoogapulse.com | May 27, 2010 | Vol. 7, Issue 21 | The Pulse

Music Calendar Thursday Spotlight

Emotron, Subterranean Circus Emotron was voted “most offbeat” in high school. See why. $7 10 p.m. JJ’s Bohemia, 231 E. MLK Blvd. (423) 266-1400. www.myspace.com/jjsbohemia

Thursday David Berkley 6 p.m. Hunter Musuem, 10 Bluff View. (423) 267-0968. Upon a Burning Body, Every Word a Prophecy, Ray Charles Death Tempo 7:30 p.m. The Warehouse, 5716 Ringgold Rd., East Ridge. www.myspace.com/warehousetn Pink Cadillac 8 p.m. The Palms at Hamilton, 6925 Shallowford Rd., #202. (423) 499-5055. www.thepalmsathamilton.com Halestorm with Jonathan Tyler and Madam Adam 9 p.m. Rhythm & Brews, 221 Market St. (423) 267-4644. www.rhythm-brews.com Channing Wilson 9 p.m. Bud’s Sports Bar, 5751 Brainerd Rd. (423) 499-9878. www.budssportsbar.com Open Mic with Gabe Newell 9 p.m. Market Street Tavern, 850 Market St. (423) 634-0260. www.marketstreettavern.com After the Crash 9:30 p.m. T-Roys Roadhouse, 724 Ashland Terrace. (423) 870-0880.

The Pulse | Vol. 7, Issue 21 | May 27, 2010 | www.chattanoogapulse.com

Friday Spotlight

Emotron, Subterranean Circus 10 p.m. JJ’s Bohemia, 231 E. MLK Blvd. (423) 266-1400. www.myspace.com/jjsbohemia

Friday Ben Friberg Trio 6:30 p.m. Table Two, 232 East 11th St. (423) 756-8253. Big Sam’s Funky Nation with The Micks 7 p.m. Nightfall, 850 Market St. (423) 265-3700. www.nightfallchattanooga.com Faretheewell, Jacob’s Ladder, 100th and May, Mike Mains and the Branches 7 p.m. The Warehouse, 5716 Ringgold Rd., East Ridge. Moonshoes Mumsy, The Flint Bears Fire, Montaul & The Psychsound Underground 7:30 p.m. Club Fathom/Mosaic, 412 Market St. www.myspace.com/clubfathom Gregg Allman Band 7:30 p.m. First Tennessee Pavillion, 1826 Reggie White Blvd. (423) 642-8497. www.chattatickets.com Asphalt Valentine, Iron Horse Society 8 p.m. Ziggy’s Hideaway, 607 Cherokee Blvd. (423) 634-1074. Roddy Knoll Trio 8:30 p.m. The Foundry, 1201 Broad St. (423) 424- 3775. www.chattanooganhotel.com Paul Smith and the Special Moments Band 9 p.m. Bourbon Street Music Bar, 2000 E. 23rd St. (423) 826-1985.

The Automaticks 9 p.m. Market Street Tavern, 850 Market St. (423) 634-0260. The Cadillac Saints (unplugged) with Jackson Mohr 9 p.m. Tremont Tavern, 1203 Hixson Pike. (423) 266-1996. Soul Krackers 9 p.m. Bart’s Lakeshore, 5600 Lakeshore Dr. (423) 870-0777. Blackberry Smoke with The Nathan Farrow Band 10 p.m. Rhythm & Brews, 221 Market St. (423) 267-4644. Big Kitty, Paleface, Forest Magic, Blackbelts 10 p.m. JJ’s Bohemia, 231 E. MLK Blvd. (423) 266-1400. The Tijuana Donkey Show 10 p.m. Bud’s Sports Bar, 5751 Brainerd Rd. (423) 499-9878. www.budssportsbar.com Dom Wier 10 p.m. T-Roys Roadhouse, 724 Ashland Terrace. (423) 870-0880.

Saturday Lee Starnes Noon. Earth Fare, 1814 Gunbarrel Rd. (423) 855-2511. www.earthfare.com Leaving Araby 12:30 p.m. First Tennessee Pavillion, 1826 Reggie White Blvd. (423) 642-8497. www.chattatickets.com Two-year Anniversary: Amity, Thaddeus, In the Era, Squathrust, The Victory Lap Kids,& more 5 p.m. The Warehouse, 5716 Ringgold Rd., East Ridge.

Gregg Allman and Band The man can still make music. $35 7:30 p.m. First Tennessee Pavilion, 1829 Carter St. (423) 642-TIXS. www.chattanoogaonstage.com Wideyedaze, Tir Asleen, Toetagged, Covered in Scars 7:30 p.m. Club Fathom/Mosaic, 412 Market St. www.myspace.com/clubfathom Stephen Bennett and Dana Rogers 7:30 p.m Barking Legs Theater, 1307 Dodds Ave. (423) 624-5347. Rich Baumann 8 p.m. Charles and Myrtle’s Coffeehouse, 105 McBrien Rd. (423) 892-4960. www.christunity.org D.R.E.A.D., One of The Fallen, Torment Garden, Mosquito Bandito 8 p.m. Ziggy’s Hideaway, 607 Cherokee Blvd. (423) 634-1074. myspace.com/ziggyshideaway Jacob Newman 8 p.m. The Palms at Hamilton, 6925 Shallowford Rd., #202. (423) 499-5055. www.thepalmsathamilton.com Roddy Knoll Trio 8:30 p.m. The Foundry, 1201 Broad St. (423) 424- 3775. www.chattanooganhotel.com Ryan Oyer 9 p.m. Market Street Tavern, 850 Market St. (423) 634-0260. www.marketstreettavern.com

Music Calendar

Send your calendar events to us at calendar@chattanoogapulse.com

Saturday Spotlight

Who-Fest Who knows what alt-music you’ll hear at Who-Fest? Free 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Renaissance Park (on the NorthShore) www.whofest.com AJ Valcarcel and The Bitter Lesson 9 p.m. The River House Pub, 224 Frazier Ave. (423) 752-0066. Paul Smith and the Special Moments Band 9 p.m. Bourbon Street Music Bar, 2000 E. 23rd St. (423) 826-1985. Open Mic Night 9 p.m. Mudpie Restaurant, 12 Frazier Ave. (423) 267-9043. www.mudpierestuarant.com Camp Normal 9 p.m. Gypsy Rose Music Hall and Bar, 1682 South Lee Hwy. (423) 476-0050. Appitite for Destruction 10 p.m. Rhythm & Brews, 221 Market St. (423) 267-4644. How I Became the Bomb 10 p.m. JJ’s Bohemia, 231 E. MLK Blvd. (423) 266-1400. www.myspace.com/jjsbohemia The Tijuana Donkey Show 10 p.m. Bud’s Sports Bar, 5751 Brainerd Rd. (423) 499-9878. www.budssportsbar.com King Diggy 10 p.m. Fireside Lounge, 4021 Hixson Pike (423) 870-7078. Double Dragon 10 p.m. Tremont Tavern, 1203 Hixson Pike. (423) 266-1996. www.tremonttavern.com

Sunday Spotlight

Jason Lyles 8 p.m. The Office, 901 Carter St. (inside Days Inn). The Glenn Miller Orchestra 8 p.m. Chattanooga Choo Choo. (800) TRACK29. www.choochoo.com Who-Fest 10 a.m. Renaissance Park, on the NorthShore. www.whofest.com

Sunday Kurt Scobie 11 a.m. Tennessee Acquarium, 1 Broad St. (423) 265-0695. www.tnaqua.com Megan Light 12:30 p.m. Chattanooga Market, First Tennessee Pavillion, 1826 Reggie White Blvd. Open Mic w/Jeff Daniels 4 p.m. Ms. Debbie’s Nightlife Lounge 4762 Highway 58, (423) 485-0966. myspace.com/debbieslounge Irish Music Sessions 6:30 p.m. Tremont Tavern, 1203 Hixson Pike. (423) 266-1996. www.tremonttavern.com Collective Clothing One Year Anniversary: Taxicab Racers, Milktooth, The Winter Sounds 7 p.m. Collective Clothing, 3933 St. Elmo Ave. www.collective-clothing.com Open Mic 8 p.m. Gene’s Bar & Grill, 724 Ashland Terrace, (423) 870-0880. Abbey Road Live 9 p.m. Rhythm & Brews, 221 Market St. (423) 267-4644. www.rhythm-brews.com

Star Search Talent Night 10 p.m. Images, 6500 Lee Hwy. www.imagesbar.com Who-Fest 10 a.m. Renaissance Park, on the NorthShore. www.whofest.com

Monday Old Tyme Players 6 p.m. Market Street Tavern, 850 Market St. (423) 634-0260. www.marketstreettavern.com Paul Lohorn and the Monday Nite Big Band 7 p.m. Lindsay Street Hall, 901 Lindsay Street. (423) 755-9111. Pestilence, Vital Remains, Enfold Darkness, Undying Darkness, Coathanger Abortion 7 p.m. Club Fathom/Mosaic, 412 Market St. www.myspace.com/clubfathom

Tuesday Billy Hopkins 5 p.m. Market Street Tavern, 850 Market St. (423) 634-0260. www.marketstreettavern.com Ben Friberg Trio 6:30 p.m. Table Two, 232 East 11th St. (423) 756-8253. Open Mic Night 8 p.m. Tremont Tavern, 1203 Hixson Pike. (423) 266-1996. www.tremonttavern.com Open Mic with Hellcat 9 p.m. Raw, 409 Market St. (423) 756-1919. Tim Starnes 9 p.m. Bart’s Lakeshore, 5600 Lakeshore Dr. (423) 870-0777.

One Year Anniversary of Computer and Friends Dance-dance-dance. Free. 9 p.m. JJ’s Bohemia, 231 E. MLK Blvd. (423) 266-1400. www.myspace.com/jjsbohemia Spoken Word/Poetry Night 8 p.m. The Riverhouse, 224 Frazier Ave., (423) 752-0066. www.myspace.com/ theriverhousechattanooga

Wednesday Ben Friberg Trio 7 p.m. Market Street Tavern, 850 Market St. (423) 634-0260. www.marketstreettavern.com Jason Thomas & The Mean Eyed Cats 9 p.m. Bud’s Sports Bar, 5751 Brainerd Rd. (423) 499-9878. www.budssportsbar.com Cowboy Mouth 9:30 p.m. Rhythm & Brews, 221 Market St. (423) 267-4644. www.rhythm-brews.com Open Mic with Hans Condor 10 p.m. JJ’s Bohemia, 231 E. MLK Blvd. (423) 266-1400. www.myspace.com/jjsbohemia Got a gig coming up that you want to tell the world about? All you need to do to get the word out for free is to e-mail the particulars to us at calendar@chattanoogapulse. com at least ten days before the event is scheduled.

www.chattanoogapulse.com | May 27, 2010 | Vol. 7, Issue 21 | The Pulse

Life in the Noog

By Chuck Crowder

Two True Rock Stars Laid To Rest J

“I’m sure these two men never met and likely had nothing in common, except possibly the way they put on their pants in the morning.”

Chuck Crowder is a local writer and general man about town. His opinions are just that. Everything expressed is loosely based on fact, and crap he hears people talking about. Take what you just read with a grain of salt, but pepper it in your thoughts. And be sure to check out his popular website www.thenoog.com

ust recently, two pivotal cultural icons in my life passed away on the very same day. One was local CocaCola tycoon and mega-philanthropist Jack Lupton. The other was heavy metal singer Ronnie James Dio. And while I’m sure these two men never met and likely had nothing in common, except possibly the way they put on their pants in the morning, in my world they both did things through the years that were admirable—and unforgettable. Jack Lupton was the grandson of J.T. Lupton, the man who actually purchased the rights to bottle Coca-Cola from the guys who’d originally acquired them from the founder of the sugary-sweet nectar that may or may not have contained cocaine at some point in its history. Talk about forethought. J.T.’s son Cartter Lupton later enlisted friends and family to help run his army of bottling plants around the country, some of whom said it was like being given “a license to print money.” And upon his death in 1977, Cartter left control of the “printing presses” to his son, John Thomas (Jack) Lupton. Around that same time, Ronnie James Dio was singing for a new rock n’ roll band called Rainbow. That outfit included remnants of the mega-popular Deep Purple, such as bassist Roger Glover and “Smoke on the Water” guitar riff-writer Ritchie Blackmore. Dio stood out as one of the best singers in heavy rock, and when Ozzy Osbourne was relieved of his vocal duties in 1979 due to general misbehavior, Black

The Pulse | Vol. 7, Issue 21 | May 27, 2010 | www.chattanoogapulse.com

Sabbath came knocking. Lupton spent much of the eighties making loads and loads of money, and in 1986 sold his bottling empire back to Coca-Cola for nearly one and a half billion dollars. That’s right, billion. I doubt Dio was worth one and a half million at the time, but two of the albums he recorded for Sabbath, 1980’s Heaven & Hell and 1981’s Mob Rules put the band back on the map in much the same way Lupton would with Chattanooga by focusing his efforts as chairman of the Lyndhurst Foundation. In the eighties, Dio also formed his own band called simply, Dio. They released a couple of very popular records for those of us still in our black-T, teenage-metal phase. Holy Diver contained both the head-banging title track as well as the classic MTV hit he’s best known for, “Rainbow in the Dark.” The video for his follow-up hit “The Last in Line” starred friendof-a-friend child actor Meeno Peluce. He’s said that it was one of his greatest, but most embarrassing experiences as an actor. But we all remember it. In essence you could say that Dio and Jack were both experiencing their heydays in the eighties. I consider the eighties the catalyst for my still-going-strong heyday, so we all three had something in common around the time that media-popular photo of Jack Lupton with jacket slung over his shoulder was taken. I doubt there’s a similar photo of Dio and I know for a fact there’s not one like it of me. But regardless of their differences in wardrobe, Lupton and Dio had in common the respect and adoration of peers and fans alike. Both did great things and were considered great guys. Both could be insightful, mentoring, brutal and brave all at the same time. And both were considered by those who

either knew them, or knew of them, as class acts. But unlike Ronnie James Dio, Jack Lupton did things for this city that changed the face of it in a way that grabbed me by the back of the neck just as I was considering darting off. I’ve written in the past, and it’s well known, that downtown Chattanooga in the seventies and eighties could have been the movie set of an apocalyptic thriller of what would happen if a nuclear bomb went off, and we wouldn’t have even had to close any streets to film it. It was a disaster. Enter Jack Lupton. His checkbook, as well as those of many others around the city, bought an aquarium. And although there were many local skeptics at the time, I remember Nashville's and Memphis’ jealousy over our getting it. And Atlanta’s tourist department was shaking in its boots as well. And they were right, because two things happened when the tank was finally full. One, it brought in the tourists. And two, it inspired everyone else with a fat wallet to come up off of theirs and chip in on other projects designed to make our city what it is today. I despise critics of what’s been callously called a “power structure” of opinion leaders in this city. If you skeptics have the money, then you do it. But if you don’t, then don’t criticize the good deeds of those who are willing to spend their own money to make YOUR life better. Lupton and his Lyndhurst Foundation continually invest in the future of Chattanooga. And when I drive past many of the awesome sites around the city directly attributed to Jack’s contributions, it makes me want to crank up the tunes and raise my devil horn rock fist in the air—just like Dio.

www.chattanoogapulse.com | May 27, 2010 | Vol. 7, Issue 21 | The Pulse

The Pulse | Vol. 7, Issue 21 | May 27, 2010 | www.chattanoogapulse.com

Arts & Entertainment

By Stephanie Smith

The Spiritual Roland Hayes

My people have been very shy about singing their crude little songs before white folks...If, as I truly believe, there is purpose and plan in my life, it is this: that we shall make our special contribution—only a humble one perhaps, but our very own—to human experience. — Roland Hayes

oland Hayes was arguably the first African American concert artist to break through racial barriers, both internationally and at home. He is remembered for his beautiful tenor voice, his thorough grasp of French, German and Italian in his singing, and for his extensive knowledge of repertoire and wide-ranging tastes. On Tuesday, June 1, the Chattanooga Choral Society for Preservation of African American Song (CCSPAAS) will be presenting a concert celebrating the 123rd birthday of Roland Hayes and the 30th anniversary of the Roland Hayes Concert Hall at UTC. The evening will feature

Harv Wileman, tenor, and will be conducted by Ruth S. Holmberg Professor of Music Roland Carter. The Pulse’s Stephanie Smith sat down with Wileman and Carter to discuss this milestone concert in Chattanooga’s musical history. The Pulse: Why is Roland Hayes important to Chattanooga’s musical history? Roland Carter: For the fact that he lived here and became the first internationally-acclaimed African American solo artist. He was born down [in Curryville] near Calhoun, Georgia, but his mom brought him here [in 1900 when he was 13] and he worked in a foundry while receiving his training in Chattanooga [with Arthur Calhoun] and at Fisk University in Nashville. There was an article written at the time entitled “From Stove Molder to $100,000 a Year” and that really sums up his success. TP: What is special about Hayes’ music? Harv Wileman: When we began looking at the spirituals closely, some of them appear to be his own compositions that he combined with folk material. We’ve listened to the recordings and he was amazing; [Roland Hayes] made such an impact on the world through his musicality—he was very interesting and seamlessly effective. The way songs were published and recorded was different then—a lot of the songs don’t exist in print anymore. So Roland [Carter] is doing some of the reconstruction of those songs. TP: What has the collaborative process been like for the two of you? HW: I sing spirituals constantly as a soloist and I’ve done Hayes’ song cycles before and been truly emotionally impacted. I’ve rarely sung a spiritual that people didn’t respond to. When I asked to do this, I knew I wanted to be accompanied

by Roland. I’ve sung under Roland for years and he’s able to get the truth out of the music and the performers like no one else. RC: The CCSPAAS tries to award students with scholarship opportunities and Harv was one of our first recipients. Harv came to me with this idea and it’s been great fun. It’s very different working at this level as professionals. We both have tremendous respect for each other as individuals. Harv has a passion that brings a lot to [the process]. TP: I know that one of the main focuses of the CCSPAAS is to preserve and perform spirituals. So, now that the research is done, how will the live performance be special to both of you? RC: I want to expand the boundaries of artists to perform this music. Often the word “for” comes with this music—it’s not “for” African Americans, it’s an American spiritual. I don’t want people to be afraid to approach this music; often biases keep them from coming to concerts like this. And I want singers to bring the same musicianship to these songs that they would bring to Brahms or Schubert. I don’t ever listen to recordings of live performances; if someone says to me “I missed your concert,” I say, “Too bad.” It’s the moment that makes it different each time, never forgetting preparation, of course. For me, the choir becomes my instrument; I don’t ever want the choir to be able to sing a piece without me. HW: What people need to understand about Roland is that he is an educator but he’s also a working artist with an artist’s temperament. This adds the unexpected. I know when we do this it will be different than it has been in rehearsals. The joy in the performance of spirituals is finding that final kernel of truth and making it true.

Roland Hayes Birthday Celebration, Featuring Harv Wileman, Tenor Chattanooga Choral Society for Preservation of African American Song Roland Carter, Director Free, 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, June 1 Roland Hayes Concert Hall UTC Fine Arts Center

www.chattanoogapulse.com | May 27, 2010 | Vol. 7, Issue 21 | The Pulse

A&E Calendar Highlights Friday

Thursday

Reba Mansour Poetry Reading Dinner and reading with Consul General of Israel to the SE United States. Reservations suggested. $9 6 p.m. Jewish Cultural Center, 5461 North Terrace Road. (423) 493-0270, ext. 13. www.jcfgc.com

Send your calendar events to us at calendar@chattanoogapulse.com

Dan Williams Bird Photography opening reception 6 p.m. Bill Shores Frame and Gallery, 307 Manufacturers Rd. (423) 756-6746. www.billshoresframes.com Mystery of the TV Talk Show 7 p.m. Vaudeville Café, 138 Market St. (423) 517-1839. www.funnydinner.com Kristin Key 8 p.m. The Comedy Catch, 3224 Brainerd Rd. (423) 629-2233. www.thecomedycatch.com Avatar in 3D 7 p.m. IMAX Theater at the Tennessee Aquarium, 1 Broad St. (800) 265-0695. Ellen Franklin Art Gannon Art Center, 3250 Brainerd Rd. (423) 622-8236. “Horizons” Shuptrine Fine Art Group, 2646 Broad St. (423) 266-4453. www.shuptrinefineartgroup.com 32nd Annual Tennessee Watercolor Exhibit Olan Mills Bldg., Chattanooga State Community College, 4501 Amnicola Hwy.(423) 478-5262.

Pig Farm Edgy comedy from creator of Urinetown opens at the CTC. $15 7 p.m. cocktails 8 p.m. Chattanooga Theatre Centre, Circle Stage, 400 River Street. (423) 267-8534. www.theatrecentre.com

Saturday

Columbinus Poetry Project Original poetry by Laurie Perry Vaughen inspired by the play. $8 2 p.m. Ensemble Studio Theatre, 1918 Union Ave (inside St. Andrews Center). (423) 987-5141. ensembletheatreofchattanooga.com

Hubble in 3D 11 a.m., 1, 3, 5, 7 p.m. IMAX Theater at the Tennessee Aquarium, 1 Broad St. (800) 265-0695. Last Fridays On Main 5 p.m. Southside, (423) 265-2585. lastfridaysonmain.blogspot.com Columbinus 7:30 p.m. St. Andrews Center Theater, 1918 Union Ave. (423) 987-5141. ensembletheatreofchattanooga.com Kristin Key 7:30, 10 p.m. The Comedy Catch, 3224 Brainerd Rd. (423) 629-2233. www.thecomedycatch.com Pig Farm 8 p.m. Chattanooga Theatre Centre, 400 River St. (423) 267-8534. www.theatrecentre.com Avatar in 3D 8 p.m. Imax Theater at the Tennessee Aquarium, 1 Broad St. (800) 265-0695. Mystery of Flight 138 8:30 p.m. Vaudeville Café, 138 Market St. (423) 517-1839. Female Impersonation Show Midnight. Images, 6065 Lee Hwy. (423) 855-8210.

“Fresh Coastal Scenes” Shuptrine Fine Art Group, 2646 Broad St. (423) 266-4453. www.shuptrinefineartgroup.com “Picture This” North River Civic Center, 1009 Executive Dr. (423) 870-8924. Dan Williams Photography Bill Shores Frame and Gallery, 307 Manufacturers Rd. (423) 756-6746. www.billshoresframes.com “Transformation 6: Contemporary Works in Glass” Hunter Museum of American Art, 10 Bluff View. (423) 266-0944. www.huntermuseum.org “All That Jazz: Fiberworks of Carole Harris” River Gallery, 400 E. Second St. (423) 265-5033. www.river-gallery.com “Seeds” Asher Love Gallery, 3914 St. Elmo Ave. (423) 822-0289. www.asherlovegallery.blogspot.com “Spring Selections” Landis Gallery, AVA, 30 Frazier Ave. (423) 265-1282. www.avarts.org

Sunday Meet the Artists 10 a.m. River Gallery, 400 E. Second St. (423) 265-5033. Who-Fest 10 a.m. Reinaissance Park, (423) 267-6688. www.whofest.com Happy Birthday CDM! 11 a.m. Creative Discovery Museum, 321 Chestnut St. (423) 648-6090. Hubble in 3D 11 a.m., 1, 3, 5, 7 p.m. IMAX Theater at the Tennessee Aquarium, 1 Broad St. (800) 265-0695. Mosaic Market 11 a.m. 412 Market St. (corner of 4th/Market) (423) 624-3915. Art Til Dark Noon. Northshore. (423) 413-8999. arttildark.wordpress.com Wild Ocean in 3D Noon, 2, 4, 6 p.m. IMAX Theater at the Tennessee Aquarium, 1 Broad St. (800) 265-0695. Kinderd Connections Book Club: Restoring Connections 2:30 p.m. Chattanooga-Hamilton Library, 1001 Broad St. (423) 757-5310.

The Pulse | Vol. 7, Issue 21 | May 27, 2010 | www.chattanoogapulse.com

Sangria on the Southside 7 p.m. Clearstory, 400 East Main Street. (423) 624-8414. www.lapazchattanooga.org Chattanooga Football Club vs. FC Atlas 7 p.m. Finley Stadium, 1826 Carter Street. info@chattanoogafc.com. Kristin Key 7:30, 10 p.m. The Comedy Catch, 3224 Brainerd Rd. (423) 629-2233. www.thecomedycatch.com Pig Farm 8 p.m. Chattanooga Theatre Centre, 400 River St. (423) 267-8534. www.theatrecentre.com Avatar in 3D 8 p.m. Imax Theater at the Tennessee Aquarium, 1 Broad St. (800) 265-0695. Glenn Miller Orchestra 8 p.m. Chattanooga Choo Choo, 1400 Market St. (800) 872-2529. Mystery of the Red Neck Italian Wedding 8:30 p.m. Vaudeville Café, 138 Market St. (423) 517-1839. Female Impersonation Show Midnight. Images, 6065 Lee Hwy. (423) 855-8210.

Beast Feast BBQ Cook-Off at the Market Stroll, sample and snack at the Market this week. Free. 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Chattanooga Market, First Tennessee Pavilion, 1829 Carter St. (423) 648-2496. www.chattanoogamarket.com

Who-Fest 10 a.m. Reinaissance Park, (423) 267-6688. www.whofest.com Columbinus 3 p.m. St. Andrews Center Theater, 1918 Union Ave. (423) 987-5141. ensembletheatreofchattanooga.com Kristin Key 8 p.m. The Comedy Catch & Giggles Grille, 3224 Brainerd Rd. (423) 629-2233. www.thecomedycatch.com “Fresh Coastal Scenes” Shuptrine Fine Art Group, 2646 Broad St. (423) 266-4453. www.shuptrinefineartgroup.com “Themes of Identity” Hunter Museum of American Art, 10 Bluff View. (423) 266-0944. www.huntermuseum.org “Chris Scarborough: Drawings and Photographs” AVA Gallery, 30 Frazier Ave. (423) 265-1282. www.avarts.org “A Breath of Fresh Art” In-Town Gallery, 26A Frazier Ave. (423)267-9214. www.intowngallery.com

A&E Calendar Highlights Monday Speak Easy: Spoken Word and Poetry 8 p.m. Mudpie Restaurant, 12 Frazier Ave. (423) 267-9040. Avatar in 3D, 7 p.m. IMAX Theater at the Tennessee Aquarium, 1 Broad St. (800) 265-0695. “Twenty American Etchings” Hunter Museum of American Art, 10 Bluff View. (423) 266-0944. www.huntermuseum.org Works by Thornton Dial In-Town Gallery, 26A Frazier Ave. (423)267-9214. www.intowngallery.com “Solid and Round” Tanner Hill Warehouse Row Gallery, 200 Market. (423) 280-7182. www.tannerhillgallery.com “French Venues” Linda Woodall Fine Arts, 7836 Ooltewah-Georgetown Rd. (423) 238-9985. “All That Jazz: Fiberworks of Carole Harris” River Gallery, 400 E. Second St. (423) 265-5033.

Tuesday Reda Mansour Poetry Discussion 6 p.m. Jewish Cultural Center, 5461 N. Terrace Rd. (423) 493-0270. Flick’s Café: Ruthless People 6:30 p.m. Chattanooga-Hamilton Library, 1001 Broad St. (423) 757-5310. “A Short History of Chattanooga” Lecture Series 7 p.m. Chattanooga History Center, 615 Lindsey St. (423) 265-3247. Canoeing Discussion 7 p.m. Olde Towne Books, 3249 Brainerd Rd. (423) 475-7187. Roland Hayes Birthday Concert 7:30 p.m. Roland Hayes Concert Hall, UTC Fine Arts Center, 615 McCallie Ave. (423) 425-4269. Avatar in 3D 7 p.m. IMAX Theater at the Tennessee Aquarium, 1 Broad St. (800) 265-0695. “Relationships: Original Prints and Jewelry of Mary Quinnon Whittle” In-Town Gallery, 26A Frazier Ave. (423)267-9214. www.intowngallery.com

Wednesday 3rd Annual Jewish Film Fest: Lemon Tree 7 p.m. Jewish Cultural Center, 5461 N. Terrace Rd. (423) 493-0270. Avatar in 3D 7 p.m. IMAX Theater at the Tennessee Aquarium, 1 Broad St. (800) 265-0695. Ellen Franklin Art Gannon Art Center, 3250 Brainerd Rd. (423) 622-8236. “Horizons” Shuptrine Fine Art Group, 2646 Broad St. (423) 266-4453. www.shuptrinefineartgroup.com 32nd Annual Tennessee Watercolor Exhibit Olan Mills Bldg., Chattanooga State Community College, 4501 Amnicola Hwy.(423) 478-5262. “Birds of a Feather” Houston Museum of Decorative Arts, 201 High St. (423) 267-7176. www.thehoustonmuseum.com Dan Williams Photography Bill Shores Frame and Gallery, 307 Manufacturers Rd. (423) 756-6746. www.billshoresframes.com

Editor’s Pick: Featured Event Of The Week

Who-Fest Annual event featuring folk, visionary, outsider and selftaught art, plus lots of music. Free 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Saturday, May 29 and Sunday, May 30 Renaissance Park on the NorthShore. www.whofest.com

www.chattanoogapulse.com | May 27, 2010 | Vol. 7, Issue 21 | The Pulse

On The Beat

By Alex Teach

Parties Then Are Jail Now I

“I’m sure the only option for ‘dill weed’ at a police party 10 to 15 years ago was the cousin of one of our guys trying to fit in by saying he was a reserve GBI agent or some such.” When officer Alexander D. Teach is not patrolling our fair city on the heels of the criminal element, he is an occasional student at UTC, an up and coming carpenter, auto mechanic, prominent boating enthusiast, and spends his spare time volunteering for the Boehm Birth Defects Center. Follow him on Facebook at www.facebook.com/alexteach

t was the summer of 1994 or 1998 (I mix the two up more frequently than I care to admit) and for no reason whatsoever the host of the party I was at was standing in front of me with his hands raised, palms facing out and looking at me as if I was about to throw patio furniture into the pool. It was particularly confusing because he was normally one of the most levelheaded among us and we were barely three hours into the festivities. Sure, I’d gotten out of hand before, but I’d been Gandhi up to this point. “Carson,” I said calmly, “what the hell is with you, man? Are you OK?” He canted his head to the side and gave me a perplexed look, then his shoulders slumped down and he lowered his eyes in defeat. “This is bullshit, man. They’ll kick me out if you tear this place up again. This is MY apartment complex. You guys always ruin everything.” I was completely at a loss about what he was talking about, so I lowered the lounge chair I’d been holding over my head and set it down so we could discuss things properly. Clearly, the man had submitted to forces greater than I was privy to and I needed to get to the bottom of this before the party was prematurely ended. “Let’s go in, brother. Look, the strippers are bored.” Without looking, I grabbed a beer out of someone’s blue Igloo cooler and popped it for him as I placed it in his hand, my other arm around his shoulders. “Go

The Pulse | Vol. 7, Issue 21 | May 27, 2010 | www.chattanoogapulse.com

chat them up, you’ll feel better.” I was right. He did. I took another beer out of another cooler for myself, one corner of my mouth pulled up in a satisfied grin, and absently used my left foot to kick the chair behind me into the pool as I took a well-deserved pull from the ice-cold can. I was a pretty damn nice guy, I’d decided. Seconds later I dropped the empty can into a trash can, so as to not be a pig, then went inside to insult the dancers before my fellows actually started believing they had a chance with them. After all…“Doing right”, it has been said, “ain’t got no end.” Strippers, vandalism…big deal. It was just a party! But even then I knew we were on the downhill slope of one-time greatness. I was working with people who just a generation ago were issued axe handles to solve innercity problems. I mean literally, right out of a garbage can on a parking lot. Was it the way to go? No. Was it completely wrong? Absolutely! But that was then, and we were on a tight leash now…this was 1994. (Or was it 1998? Crud.) Nowadays? Crap-Heck, I’d be prosecuted for whoever it was that ultimately pushed the furniture into the pool that night (I really never saw it coming in retrospect), much less drinking beer and smoking cigars without first hiding under a sheet in a locked windowless room as is required preemployment these days. They’d probably tie me to a tree and shoot me now just for having strippers present, even though I was the one that caused them to leave…But even if I hadn’t, at the end of the day who is going to put these girls through college or their

children into daycare better than a group of lustful but good-natured cops? That was as natural as lions hunting on the plains of the Sahara. Now we were losing jobs over Facebook comments. Nothing made sense any more. All was not lost: The new generations were filling in the gaps left by the complacent and the infirm, but still, things had changed. There were no parties (much less strippers), every American and illegal immigrant had an out-of-context camera in their pocket called a “cell phone”, and we were being given classes on how to attend classes prior to being trained about which classes we needed to take. My head hurt. My back and knees hurt, so I was certain that it was now 2010, and I eased into the living room of the home playing host to this first party I’d attended in years (which prompted my nostalgic line of thinking) and within seconds my eyes locked onto a vegetable platter placed neatly in the center of a well-appointed kitchen table. It had been some time, but I’m sure the only option for “dill weed” at a police party 10 to 15 years ago was the cousin of one of our guys trying to fit in by saying he was a reserve GBI agent or some such. And were those water bottles in an ice chest? Jesus…Even the music was low. We’d always been good-natured boys, sure, but this neutering was degrading. What the hell, though: I saw an unattended cooler, and headed towards it, grabbing a carrot along the way. We were good natured, but we were adaptable. They may even have a pool out back.

www.chattanoogapulse.com | May 27, 2010 | Vol. 7, Issue 21 | The Pulse

Film Feature

By Phillip Johnston

Lost But Not Forgotten

his past Sunday, Lost ended. If that means something to you, you may be happy to be reading about the show in lieu of a film review; if it doesn’t mean something to you, you may be tempted to put down the paper. I would ask you not to, for in evaluating this massive piece of storytelling unfolded on American TV screens in the last six years, there is a job to be done—a job I can only but begin here and will try to do with a minimal amount of spoilers. It is the humongous task of separating myth from character, a job accomplished to near perfection by the creative team behind Lost—but perhaps not so well by a few viewers and devotees. When Oceanic Flight 815 crashed on a mysterious island back in 2004, viewers and castaways alike were confronted with an inexplicable place that held more than a few impenetrable mysteries. There were polar bears on the island, a strange underground hatch, an ancient Egyptian statue with only four toes, and, most terrifying of all, a

monster made of black smoke. But there was always something more important going on. From the very beginning, each episode focused intensely on a different character, showing a flashback of what life was like for this person before they were brought to the island. There was the fugitive constantly on the run from the law after putting a fiery end to her abusive stepfather. We met a member of the Iraqi Republican Guard who had tortured many men and lost the love of his life. There was the man of science who balked at the notion of destiny and the man of faith who knew differently after a lifechanging healing experience on the island. As the show progressed, the flashbacks switched unexpectedly to flash forwards then finally to a parallel “what-if ” timeline that afforded characters an opportunity for a new life with new choices to make. A renewed existence was offered with a tabula rasa on which their redemption as characters could become palpable in an off-island world. The alcohol-addled spinal surgeon finally got to restore a life, giving back to a patient the ability to walk. A selfabsorbed megalomaniac became a father figure, learning to help others instead of endlessly looking out for himself. A likable castaway, plagued with bad luck, got to turn the streak around and become a successful businessman. The list could go on. (And most of these characters, I must add, have been impeccably and consistently acted.) But all those island mysteries were still there. Some audience members have said that by not explaining the deepest mysteries of their show, the writers of Lost took the path of least resistance and performed one long con on millions of viewers. Others realize that since they wrote mysteries so deep, the writers caused explanations to become irrelevant—asking “What is the island?!” became

The Pulse | Vol. 7, Issue 21 | May 27, 2010 | www.chattanoogapulse.com

equivalent to asking “What is The Force?” in relation to Star Wars (i.e., something you just don’t do). Explaining the truth behind a mystery will always leave some people unsatisfied. Mystery engenders wonder; rational explanations often decimate it. This was no doubt a matter of much discussion for the Lost storytelling team as they approached the end of their epic. In one of the final episodes of the series, two characters approach each other after a long separation and are given a chance to catch up. “It’s about time,” one says. Yes, it is—the guiding theme of Lost has always been time and what people do with it. In pondering all six seasons, I couldn’t help but think of something William Faulkner— no stranger to the concept of time and man’s relation to it—wrote in his novel Light in August: “Memory believes before knowing remembers. Believes longer than recollects, longer than knowing even wonders.” Complicated? Yes. Thoroughly engrained into the world of Lost? You bet. It would have been inconsequential for the castaways to leave the island the same people they were when they arrived, saying “Wow, wasn’t that a crazy trip?!” The many layers of Lost ensure that these characters will remember why they were once brought to the island and that their desolate pasts will no longer impede them from moving on toward a fuller life. Memory will believe even after knowledge is forgotten. There will be holes of disappointment for we Lost lovers who, deep down, wanted our pet mysteries explained, but I would like to think that, like all of the primary characters, we’re no longer floundering in a place we must approach with unease and trepidation. We have been told a complete story in the classic sense—a story about lost and lonely people who needed some sort of redemption and found it in a most unlikely way. If anything, helping us believe in the hope of that redemption for six seasons is a most notable accomplishment on the part of Lost’s cast and crew.

www.chattanoogapulse.com | May 27, 2010 | Vol. 7, Issue 21 | The Pulse

Free Will Astrology GEMINI (May 21-June 20): My favorite news source, The Onion, recently reported on a “freethinking cat” that excretes its wastes “outside the box.” As you enjoy your own phase of liberated thinking and uninhibited action, Gemini, I hope that you’re putting the emphasis on generating beauty and blessings “outside the box.” You will of course also have to make some messes as you tamper with the way things have always been done, but even they could turn out to be productive in the long run. CANCER (June 21-July 22): Are you slipping into one of those moods in which you feel like a fraud? Are you starting to worry that maybe you’re not who you say you are? If so, I want to remind you of what happened the last time these feelings got stirred up: You became super motivated to prove that you are indeed who you say you are. And that had a most wonderful effect, didn’t it? It led you to locate and call on resources you hadn’t known you could have access to; it spurred you to purge some selfdeception from your system; and it roused you to intensify your commitment to rigorous authenticity. How about an encore? LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): I’m a compassion freak. Empathy is a fetish of mine. My predilection is to comfort the afflicted, champion the underdog, and fight for the rights of people who have been given less than I. And yet there’s also a part of me that’s a pagan libertarian anarchist. I subscribe to the idea that pretty much any kind of behavior is fine and good as long as it doesn’t hurt anyone. Now that you Leos are in the “anything goes” phase of your astrological cycle, this full-permission part of me is rising to the forefront, eager to encourage you to go for broke, take it to the limit, and get away with everything you can get away with—on one condition, which is that it doesn’t harm anyone, including you. VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Snake charmers are still a fixture in many Indian cities. Moving rhythmically and playing a flute-like instrument, they influence erect cobras to bob and sway as if dancing. According to my reading of the astrological omens, you now have the power to do the metaphorical equivalent of that magic trick. This is one of those rare times when you possess the mojo to direct and even control strong forces that may usually be too wild to tame. You’ve still got to be careful, though. Just because you’ve got the power doesn’t mean that you can scrimp on preparation and discipline. LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): It’s time to think comprehensively, not defensively…to see futuristically, not didactically…to fantasize fantastically, not diplomatically. Your assignment is to stop reacting to every little blip that leaps into your field of vision, and start surveying the longterm cycles of your life from an expansive vista. Be a proactive visionary, Libra. Be a high-minded explorer. Weave all the disparate threads into a tapestry that reveals the big picture. The next phase of your liberation requires you to slough off petty concerns and trivial details. SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): “Never” has never been a more irrelevant word for you. Events that may have always seemed quite improbable are now well within the range of possibility. Exotic people who up until recently may as well have been fictional characters are showing up as real live actors in your actual life story. Plotlines whose emergence you could not have predicted are snaking their way into your drama. So be alert for a freaking miracle concealed in a flimsy disguise. And don’t be surprised if a vision of funky paradise shows up in full regalia. The future’s not just knocking at your door, it’s pounding. SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Sagittarian writer Samuel Clemens was best known under his pen name, Mark Twain. But he tried many others, including Thomas Jefferson Snodgrass,

The Pulse | Vol. 7, Issue 21 | May 27, 2010 | www.chattanoogapulse.com

By Rob Brezsny Truthrooster@gmail.com W. Epaminondas Adrastus Blab, Trismegistus, and Sergeant Fathom. Since you’re in a phase when experiments with your persona would be productive, I suggest you dream up a few aliases of your own. I hope that at least one of them will be as wacky as “Blab” or “Snodgrass.” Having a sense of humor about yourself will be helpful. It will ensure that your explorations at the frontiers of your identity will be fertile, fun, and never fear-based. CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): You’re not living in Iraq or Sudan or the Congo, and you don’t have to walk five miles a day with a jug on your head to fetch the water you need, and you’re not so bereft of food that you have to resort to eating worms and tree bark. So how bad could your problems be? The single best thing you can do to start fixing your life’s small glitches is to feel waves of gratitude for how many resources you have and how lucky you are. The second best thing would be to aggressively take your worried attention off yourself and turn your mind toward people who could really benefit from your help. As you carry out those two assignments, your dilemmas will begin to solve themselves as if by magic. AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): There’s a bothersome phenomenon that mucks up reincarnation research: Far too many people profess to have been celebrities and geniuses in their previous lives. A related and equally irksome issue is the problem of multiple claims. For example, I know three different people who have assured me they were Napoleon their last time around. The fact is, almost no one who’s reading this horoscope has never been famous in any past incarnation. However, it is worthy to note that a disproportionately high percentage of you Aquarians were formerly people with great imaginations. And it so happens that in the coming weeks you will be at the peak of your ability to tap into the creativity you had back then. PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): When I sent out my email newsletter last week, I got the usual number of automatic replies from people who were on vacation or out of the office. But one from Lisa P. caught my attention. “Can’t reply to your email right now,” it read. “I will be meditating until June 1.” My first reaction was jealousy. “I want to have the leisure time and willpower to meditate for 14 days non-stop!” I thought to myself. I pictured myself free of all business-as-usual, even meditating while I was asleep. My second reaction was that I should tell you Pisceans about what Lisa P. was up to. The coming days would, after all, be an excellent time for you to retreat from the usual flood of chaos and seek peaceful sanctuary in a conversation with eternity. If you can’t manage a whole week, try to give yourself at least 48 hours of profound and utter slack. ARIES (March 21-April 19): Mozart once challenged his friend Haydn to play a harpsichord piece he’d written. Haydn tried, but stopped partway through when the musical score called for him to play a note in the middle of the keyboard even though his right hand was fully occupied at the high end and his left hand at the low end. “Nobody can play this,” protested Haydn. “I can,” said Mozart, who proceeded to perform the piece flawlessly, dipping down to play the problematic note with his nose. In the coming week, Aries, be inspired by Mozart as you not only cover the extremes but also take care of the center. TAURUS (April 20-May 20): If you’ve ever contemplated taking a trip to Bora Bora or Pago Pago, now might be a good time to actually go. That’s because you’re in a “seeing double” phase—a time when magic will come through repetition, and via duplication, and while you’re in the throes of imitation. To take maximum advantage of the dualistic cosmic rhythms, don’t seek just one of anything. Don’t do anything just once. Two is where the power lies. Pairing brings potency.

JONESIN’

Across 1 “Nurse Jackie” star 10 Low-skilled, lowpaying rut 15 “Chicken George” Moore, in “Roots” 16 Two-door vehicle 17 Title C.S. Lewis demon 18 Map in the corner 19 “___ tu” (Mocedades hit of the 1970s) 20 Cable staple for old films 22 Stops for 31down 23 Pseudo ending? 24 Rude interruption 28 Mozzarella sticks, e.g. 29 Houston newspaper 32 Carnaval dance 36 “Girl with a Pearl Earring” subject 37 In an unspoken

manner 39 They’re enclosed for returns: abbr. 40 Ditch 42 Will partner 44 Part of a weapon that does the damage 47 Business cert. for overseers 50 Attention-getting noise 51 Isn’t around now 52 “Tomb Raider” heroine 53 Former wrestler Lex 55 Nirvana member Krist 59 Remove 60 Up on the latest gadgetry 61 Hall of music 62 Computer quartet Down 1 Buddy on TV 2 Express disapproval of

“Vacabulous” –a little of this, that and the other.

3 “Against a thing,” to a lawyer 4 Nights before the big day 5 Just a handful 6 Sculpture, e.g. 7 Perrins’ partner 8 Lozenge brand 9 “Again!” 10 Big initials in telecom, once 11 Limitation 12 Mot ___ (fitting phrase) 13 Plays before the main act 14 Heavenly girl? 21 Cow’s mouthful 24 “Out of Africa” author Isak 25 “18 Till ___” (Bryan Adams song) 26 Stealthy gift giver 27 Take back 28 Vowel inclusion with a disclaimer 29 Drug chain 30 “...or is ___

speck?” (They Might Be Giants line) 31 They have their own X-ings 33 NYC underground system 34 Non-vegetarian sandwich 35 Consenting vote 38 Sherman Hemsley sitcom 41 Dogie catcher 43 Put in stitches 44 Gathered fodder 45 Zoe Saldana role 46 “Popeye” cartoonist E.C. 47 Have a cow? 48 Toilet 49 Annual parade sponsor 52 Security breach 54 Sermon subj. 56 Machine with a rewind button 57 “Now I’ve got it!” 58 Dir. opposite NNE

Crossword created By Matt Jones. © 2010 Jonesin’ Crosswords. For answers to this puzzle, call: 1-900-226-2800, 99 cents per minute. Must be 18+. Or to bill to your credit card, call: 1-800-655-6548. Reference puzzle #0469.

www.chattanoogapulse.com | May 27, 2010 | Vol. 7, Issue 21 | The Pulse

Spirits Within

By Joshua Hurley

Tango For Four W

ine lovers take note—for this week’s Great Buy, Riley’s is offering four Argentinean varietals from Alamos, all rated high between 85 and 90 by Wine Spectator and all for under $10. “Great Buys” is where Riley’s Wine and Spirits on Hixson Pike in Hixson picks a favorite among our large selection of wine and spirits from around the world and shares it with the readership of The Pulse. Once upon a time—say 20-odd years ago—wines from Argentina were considered a joke, as in considered low quality. They were hard to find, with little to no distribution in the States. By the mid1990s, that began to change. Argentina’s wine quality improved and U.S. critics and consumers took notice. Today Argentina is the fifth-largest wine producer in the world. The country’s “primo” growing region is the Mendoza Provence, which produces 70 percent of the country’s wine and 85 percent of its high-quality wines. Mendoza is located in the foothills of the majestic Andes Mountains, which include some of the highest peaks in the world, and offer its vineyards an excellent growing climate that consists of two essential components: 1) excellent irrigation from melted snow and ice brought down from higher altitudes, and 2) location in relation to sea level—higher altitude means a cooler, friendlier climate. Alamos is a winery located in Mendoza. It is owned and operated by the fourth generation of the Catena family; Argentinean wine pioneers and owners of the giant wine company Bodega Catena Zapata. In 1898, Nicola Catena came to Argentina. By 1902, he had planted his first vineyard with malbec (today, it’s the national grape). Catena is now owned and operated by Laura Catena, the family’s fourth generation. Under her leadership, Catena and Alamos wines have received worldwide acclaim. In 2004, that year’s Alamos Malbec was awarded 98 points by wine critic Robert Parker. Alamos is a wine that reflects the area in which it was grown—the foothills of the

The Pulse | Vol. 7, Issue 21 | May 27, 2010 | www.chattanoogapulse.com

Andes, 3-to-5,000 feet above sea level. The name “Alamos” refers to the tall trees that enclose the vineyard and protect the crop from the cold mountain breezes. The label itself pays homage to the Andes Peaks that tower over the Mendoza Provence, creating a breathtaking vista. Check out these four varietals: Alamos Malbec 2009: Malbec was first brought to Mendoza in 1852 by French viticulturalist Miguel Pouget. It has since become the country’s national grape, planted on a total of 136,000 acres. Alamos Malbec is dark purple in color with a nose that offers a distinct aroma of black cherry and touches of a floral bouquet. The juicy palate delivers figs, cassis and raspberry. Nine months aging in French and American oak give the finish added dimensions of sweet spice, toast and chocolate. Wine Spectator awarded this vintage 88 points. Alamos Cabernet Sauvignon 2009— This big, bold cab should please even the toughest cabernet snobs who rarely venture outside of California for their beloved varietal. This purplish, velvety wine offers aromas of red berries, cedar, spice and mint followed by flavors of blackberry and currant. Oak aging in both French (80 percent) and American (20 percent) for one year provides a nice toasted finish. Wine Spectator awarded this cab 88 points. Alamos Chardonnay 2007—This white wine is light yellow in color with subtle greenish hues. It was aged in French oak for five months. This aromatic chardonnay contains aromas of tropical fruit, citrus and a flowery bouquet, followed by flavors of pear, butter and almonds. French oak aging provides a finish of figs and toasted oak. Wine Spectator awarded this chard 86 points. Alamos Torrontes 2007—As malbec is Argentina’s signature red grape, torrontes is the white grape varietal. Similar to sauvignon blanc, it contains aromas of citrus, peach, jasmine, and a touch of herbs. This white is just as tasty, containing big notes of grapefruit, tangerine and persimmon that linger through to the finish. Oak haters rejoice—no oak aging. Wine Spectator awarded this torrontes 87 points. All four varietals are available for $7.98, only at Riley’s.

www.chattanoogapulse.com | May 27, 2010 | Vol. 7, Issue 21 | The Pulse

Joy Stick

By Brandon Cochran

Spaghetti Western At Your Fingertips

hen you're anticipating a game, it is some times disappointing to find that there is no light at the end of the tunnel. Here, Rockstar has taken upon themselves to give us something we can sink our teeth into. There was a great achievement with Grand Theft Auto IV in its attention to detail and open world. With Red Dead Redemption, they have built from all of their best an immersion into the Western world. Although its predecessor Red Dead Revolver was an achievement for its time, this world is open in ways beyond space or activities. It challenges you to make decisions quickly, with or without heart. It's the turn of the century and the government is pushing technology and federal ways into the west. John Marston is a reformed outlaw trying to regain his family's rights, taking it upon himself to help capture or kill those who once rode with him. Attention has been given in RDR to innumerable references, from classic spaghetti westerns to old serials, from Tombstone, The Magnificent Seven, to Zorro. These references can be seen throughout the story along with just riding through the

environment. You create your reputation in this world based on your behavior. Saving a woman from bandits with her husband will gain you honor. Jumping from your horse to a train to rob the passengers will raise a bounty on your head. Although the story line is consistent, the way the characters in society treat you changes dramatically. After finishing some necessary missions, you gain the infamous dead-eye targeting system. This offers a tasteful slowing down of time, painting your targets with incredible accuracy. It can be most useful when you're saving an innocent from a wrongful hanging or when multiple bandits are aiming towards you. But if you get tired of wonderfully animated cutscenes and brilliant drama, you can always just go out for a bit of hunting. The game provides more than 40 different species that range from bear to coyote. Each part of the map has creatures indigenous to its area, all with raging tempers. Be carefulâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; deadly enemies await, such as rattlesnakes and mountain lions. There are also a good list of mini-games that accompany the vast world. You can play poker or blackjack, five-finger fillet or horseshoes. These games, challenging yet intricate, could possibly stand alone, each of them offering an escape from the mission-tomission pace. Although single-player offers a vast amount of activities and hours of gameplay, online multi-player shows an equally challenging

The Pulse | Vol. 7, Issue 21 | May 27, 2010 | www.chattanoogapulse.com

experience. The best way to properly describe this experience is simply by its instances. It is just before dusk, you are riding into town to trade your fresh skins after a hunt. Hearing gunshots in the distance, you ride faster towards the chaos, digging your heels into the horse's side, making sure to not wear your companion out. Two rough-looking fellows are shooting in the air, yipping and hollering. Suddenly their excitement is explained, as you see a man tied up, being dragged behind their horses. In one fluid motion, you paint the rope and the two assailants with your dead-eye and fire your revolver. Cutting the rope and finishing the criminals off, you untie the grateful man and he offers all that he has on him. Then he proceeds to run back into town to spread the word about the man that saved his life, affecting your honor throughout the town. The coin can flip just as quickly. Finding yourself facing a saloon on foot, you put a bandana on to keep your identity secret. Walking through the wooden swinging doors, there is ambiance of piano and cigar smoke. One man seems to be having a good time, for now. You pull out your lasso and tie him up to carry him outside to your horse. If you are hated in the town, they will flee in terror. Have the upper hand with honor and the townsfolk will laugh and heckle. It really challenges you to think, putting you in a position of power to affect the environment around you. Although there are a few development flaws and glitches, RDR more than makes up for them with attention to detail and soulful character play throughout the story arcs. The character animations are some of the best yet. These characters actually have their place in this world. They provide a true sense of society that can't be rivaled. Sometimes you find it necessary to set up camp out on a hill top or canyon edge. only to wait just for the right time to watch a digital sunset that you swear was just as real as stepping into that time period. They have brought us some amazing titles in the past, and Rockstar won't need any redemption from its loyal fans any time soon. Play n Trade 5084 South Terrace, Suite 18 (423) 386-5996.

The Pulse • Dining Out Spotlight

Tres Chic and Tres Yummy by Colleen Wade Antique shops, kitschy little specialty stores, a lovely café situated within them—how very Parisian! Tres chic! Well, that’s exactly what Virginia’s Southside Café, located in the Galleries at Southside, is—tres chic! The Galleries at Southside approached Virginia Cofer, owner of catering company Virginia’s Gourmet By Design and Petunia’s Silver Jalapeno, located across from Baylor School. There had been a café inside the galleries and but it had closed—fortunately, it seems, for Virginia, her business partner, Laura Powell, and Denise Ware, who was invited to be a part of this new venture. Virginia and Denise had worked together as chefs throughout the years at both of Virginia’s other businesses. Both Virginia and Denise are classically trained; Virginia attending Johnson and Wales University, while Denise attended The Culinary Institute of America. “We have a fun, friendly, half-joking rivalry going about that,” Denise says. Virginia continues to maintain both other businesses. She has also held chef jobs at several places, including the Fairyland Club on Lookout Mountain. “My local experience,” explains Denise, “has included being pastry chef at Southern Star for three years, and chef at Perry’s Seafood, now closed, under Lee Towery for nearly seven years.” With all that combined experience, how could Virginia’s Southside Café be anything but a hit? Take, for instance, the food…”The two musttries, in my opinion,” says Denise, “are the Mediterranean Nachos, pita chips with hummus,

roasted peppers and onions, kalamata olives, cilantro, and melted cheese, and the Shrimp Tacos, sautéed shrimp with an onion fondue, pico de gallo, and a roasted pepper aioli on soft flour tortillas.” The ladies have also recently introduced a new item: Chicken Cheesecake. “This is made with chicken, spinach, red onion, tomato, and feta cheese,” Denise tells us. “Guests love it!” The Chicken Cheesecake has quickly become one of Virginia’s Southside Café’s most popular items. Also on the menu are specials of the day, featuring a quiche of the day, soup of the day and even pasta of the day. Naturally, being in the South, Virginia’s Southside Café prides itself in having a delicious pulled-pork sandwich. “[The pulled pork sandwich is] one of the only items that crosses over between us and the Silver Jalapeño,” notes Denise. “It is probably

the best smoked butt in Chattanooga. [Virginia] does them herself on a huge smoker.” With a former pastry chef at the helm, you know Virginia’s Southside Café has some fabulous desserts! According to Denise, desserts change regularly too, but a standard is a Virginia’s Southside Café creation. “We always have our signature dessert item, which is the lemon bread pudding. Virginia came up with the idea and I came up with the execution and people always love it. We serve it slightly warm with lemon curd, fresh berries, and crème anglaise.” Yummy! Virginia’s Southside Café also makes food for events. “We definitely cater,” says Denise, “and while the restaurant is open for lunch only Monday through Saturday, we are also available to open for private evening events. We specialize in designing menus to suit the taste of our clients and love working with people to create an individual menu just for them.” So whether stopping in for a bite while you’re out shopping, or planning the next dinner party, Virginia’s Southside Café has it all. Being one of numerous restaurants downtown, Virginia’s Southside Café had to create their own niche to survive. They have done so by bringing Chattanoogans a mix of wonderful food at reasonable prices, a comfortable, friendly atmosphere, and the chance to peruse some great shops before and after lunch! Virginia’s Southside Café, 1404 Cowart Street, in The Galleries at Southside. Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m.- 2:30 p.m. (423) 756-6010.

www.chattanoogapulse.com | May 27, 2010 | Vol. 7, Issue 21 | The Pulse

Ask A Mexican!

By Gustavo Arellano

Ethnic Studies Edition

Dear Mexican, I have a sister. I read your column each time it comes out in the Tucson Weekly. Once, we were talking about all the hatred against Mexicans in our state and my sister said, “Sis, why do they hate Mexicans so much in Arizona? Why do they hate us so much?” I asked if she wanted me to ask that question in ¡Ask a Mexican! and she said, “You think he would reply?” I said, “Let’s find out.” Would you please see if you can reply? Since we know you like us to use a funny name, my sister said to sign… — Encabronada en Tucson Dear Pissed-Off in Tucson, Wow, you and your hermana must be mega-nerds to have a conversation about whether I’d answer your question! Where were ustedes in college when I needed some company? Anyhoo, the two of you as faithful readers should know my contention that Mexican-hating has long been a characteristic of the American Southwest due to its proximity to Mexico and forgotten pasts we are condemned to repeat. Everyone now knows your home state’s war against Mexicans, especially given that Governor Bruja—I mean, Jan Brewer—signed another Know Nothing bill in addition to the racial profiling-loving SB1070: HB 2281, which bans ethnic studies classes in Arizona public schools. The law’s proponents claim such a discipline teaches racial division, but what they don’t like is that what’s taught is the unvarnished, ugly truth of its home state. To give you just one egregious example: did you know that in 1904, a group of Mexicans in the Arizona mining towns of Clifton and Morenci tried to adopt 40 Irish orphans only to see their new wards kidnapped by gabachos furious that Mexicans dared want to raise white children? And that the gabachos weren’t prosecuted for their terror? True story—one Know Nothings Copper Staters desperately try to keep out of classrooms lest children connect the dots between past injustices and present-day stupidities—better to keep the masses dumb than honest, you know? If the American psyche has always

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possessed a synapse of xenophobia, then the Arizonan mind’s chunk of hate is a pinche cerebral cortex—sorry that you and other good people must live among such a bola de pendejos. Dear Mexican, The Texas Board of Education voted to remove Dolores Huerta, co-founder of the United Farm Workers union and well-known Xingona, because they didn’t like her politics. How long will this Manifest Destiny crap last? — Michicano in Texas Dear Wab, FOREVER. You refer, of course, to the people in charge of textbook standards for the Lone Star State’s public schools, people so ahistorical they banned Huerta’s legacy from being taught because of her socialist politics but approved of another committed socialist (Hellen Keller) since state-sanctioned historians have reduced her to some blind broad. What people opposed to Chicano Studies and other subaltern peoples’ history don’t realize is that such schools of thought arose only because “respectable” scholars never bothered with the stories of Mexicans, more content to document orange-crate labels than the people who picked the crops. Chicano Studies doesn’t peddle lies, but rather fosters a grown-up perspective on our great land instead of an untruthful John Wayne dream world. And so I conclude this columna with the words of Carey McWilliams, the legendary progressive historian whose 1949 book North from Mexico: A History of the Spanish-Speaking People of the United States still remains a prophetic vision of Mexicans and how gabachos view them and their relationship to them more than 60 years after its publication: “When one examines how deeply this fantasy heritage has permeated the social and cultural life of the borderlands, the dichotomy begins to assume the proportions of a schizophrenic mania.” Ask the Mexican at themexican@askamexican. net, be his fan on Facebook, follow him on Twitter or ask him a video question at youtube.com/askamexicano!