A Night of Tribute to Chattanooga’s ‘Program Lady’
The evening of August 18 will transform Erlanger Park into a living museum of baseball lore, as the Chattanooga Lookouts host a special History Night that blends a ceremonial tribute with a regular game that kicks off at 7 p.m. The event marks the culmination of a multi‑year effort to spotlight the individuals who have shaped the city’s rich baseball narrative, with a particular focus on the unsung heroes who have kept fans connected to the sport.
At the heart of the ceremony is Wanda Goins, whose nickname "Program Lady" has become synonymous with the warm greetings and behind‑the‑scenes coordination that have greeted generations of spectators. Over the past 35 years, Goins has served as the Lookouts’ welcoming ambassador, handling everything from ticket distribution to fan outreach, and her presence has been a constant thread through the franchise’s many seasons.
The tribute will also see the Bessie Smith Cultural Center induct Goins into its History Makers Exhibit, a honor announced by center president Paula Wilkes, who emphasized that Goins is "essential to Chattanooga baseball" because her welcoming spirit has introduced countless newcomers to the ballpark experience. The exhibit will sit on the main concourse, offering visitors a visual timeline of her contributions alongside artifacts from the Negro Leagues and other local baseball milestones.
Organizers have partnered with the Lookouts and the cultural center to curate a Baseball History Exhibit that showcases the Negro Leagues’ legacy, profiles of local legends, and memorable moments that have defined the sport in the region. The display, complemented by a PBS feature on Goins’ extraordinary community impact, aims to educate younger fans about the deep roots of baseball in Chattanooga while celebrating the individuals who have kept those roots alive.
Beyond the ceremonial aspects, the night will underscore the collaborative spirit that defines the city’s approach to preserving sports heritage. By joining forces, the Lookouts and the Bessie Smith Cultural Center not only honor a longtime employee but also reinforce a broader commitment to celebrating the full spectrum of Chattanooga’s baseball story — from its segregated past to its vibrant present.