The Riverbend Festival made a house call this week to Morning Pointe of Chattanooga assisted living and Alzheimer’s memory care community. Residents from both Morning Pointe of Chattanooga and The Lantern Alzheimer’s Center at Morning Pointe of Collegedale gathered to enjoy a taste of Riverbend when local artist,
John Lathim, made a surprise visit. Serving as a “roving artist” for this year’s Riverbend Festival, Mr. Lathim has been performing an acoustic blend of Scotch, Irish and mountain music at the Chattanooga festival since 1996.
“Our residents were thrilled to experience Riverbend without leaving the comforts of home,” said Dinah Bailes, executive director of Morning Pointe of Chattanooga located at 7620 Shallowford Road. “We are grateful to Mr. Lathim for providing us with entertainment that transcends generations, and for bringing Riverbend to us.”
A native of Baltimore, Md., Mr. Lathim has lived in Chattanooga for over 20 years and makes a living as a registered nurse. He is an accomplished guitarist, singer/songwriter and poet who incorporates music as part of the healing arts, not only at local senior care communities, but also at work.
“Health, healing and music go hand-in-hand,” said Mr. Lathim. “Occasionally, I will carry my guitar and harmonica to work and perform for patients, especially seniors. Older generations inspire me with their wisdom and experiences. They are walking history books so I glean inspiration from them.” He said he is also inspired by renowned folk artists including Gordon Lightfoot, Bob Dylan and Woody Guthrie.
“Our residents have not experienced Mr. Lathim’s musical style in a long time,” said Dana Smith, life enrichment director at Morning Pointe of Chattanooga, “and it was a refreshing change of pace. Many of the residents have experienced Riverbend firsthand over the past 24 years and were glad to feel a part of this annual celebration.”