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DALL·E 2024-11-27 12.24.49 - A realistic wide-scale concept for the Sparks Center in downt
DALL·E 2024-11-27 12.26.05 - A realistic interior concept for the Sparks Center, featuring

SPARK CENTER CHATTANOOGA

VISION STATEMENT

Developed by Ms. Jonnetta Patton, the Spark Center Chattanooga aims to transform the city into a vibrant cultural and educational hub, celebrating Usher’s legacy, empowering youth, and expanding the historical impact of the Bessie Smith Cultural Center.

Key Inspiration Detroit’s Motown Museum: Preserves the rich legacy of Motown’s music and history.

 

Memphis’ Graceland: Honors Elvis Presley, attracting millions of tourists globally.

CONCEPTS FOR THE SPARK CENTER

  • Bessie Smith Cultural Center Expansion

    • Reimagine and integrate the Bessie Smith Cultural Center into the Spark Center.

    • Showcase Chattanooga’s cultural history alongside Usher’s global achievements.

    • Update exhibits and programs to connect local heritage with modern inspiration.

  • The Usher Legacy Museum

    • A museum featuring:

      • Memorabilia: awards, tour costumes, music videos, and personal artifacts.

      • Interactive displays: VR experiences, recording studios, and dance sessions.

    • Include Usher’s grandmother’s house as a historical landmark on the tour.

  • Youth Empowerment Through the Promise Scholarship

    • Partner with UTC and Usher’s New Look Foundation to grow the Promise Scholarship:

      • Provide college scholarships and leadership training for local youth.

      • Create mentorship and career pathways for underserved communities.

  • Community and Tourism Hub

    • Revitalized Skating Rink: Maintain as part of the cultural experience.

    • 18,000+ Seater Arena: Build a premier venue for concerts, sports, and large-scale events, boosting tourism and the local economy.

Key Features

  • Cultural Preservation and Growth

    • Expand the Bessie Smith Cultural Center into the foundation of the Sparks Center.

    • Celebrate Usher’s rise from Chattanooga to international fame.

    • Highlight local landmarks, such as Usher’s grandmother’s house, as part of the tour.

  • Educational Initiatives

    • Empower youth through The Promise Scholarship, offering access to higher education and career opportunities.

    • Field trips, workshops, and programs to inspire Chattanooga’s next generation of leaders.

  • Tourism and Economic Impact

    • Increase Chattanooga’s visibility as a tourist destination.

    • Generate jobs and economic growth through the museum, skating rink, and arena.

Proposed Partnerships

  1. Bessie Smith Cultural Center

    • Transform and expand its role within the Sparks Center concept.

  2. UTC & Usher’s New Look Foundation

    • Strengthen educational initiatives through the Promise Scholarship.

  3. Corporate Collaborations

    • Leverage Usher’s global brand to attract sponsors in music, fashion, and technology.

  4. City and Civic Support

    • Partner with Chattanooga’s leaders to secure funding and community backing.

Development Plan

  • Feasibility Study

    • Assess the social and economic benefits of expanding the Bessie Smith Cultural Center into the Sparks Center.

  • Community Engagement

    • Host local forums, school programs, and partnerships to build excitement.

  • Design and Funding

    • Secure public-private partnerships and sponsorships.

    • Design state-of-the-art facilities for the museum, skating rink, and arena.

Why the Spark Center?

  • Celebrate Usher’s legacy and honor Chattanooga’s cultural history through the expanded Bessie Smith Cultural Center.

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  • Empower youth with educational programs like The Promise Scholarship.

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  • Elevate Chattanooga as a destination for culture, education, and entertainment.

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