The Loafer 112 by lbdfamilymedia

Publisher Lisa Durbin Creative Director Jon Bill Forrester Managing Editor Peggy Gale Distribution Herbie Durbin Jon Bill Forrester Entertainment Coordinator Andreax Jarre Public Relations Correspondent Lee Lee Williams

your week’s line-up

Volume 03 Issue 112

Exploring our Local Music Scene: The Story of Stitcher

04 Spotlight 05 Historic Barter Theatre Prepares for 2024 Appalachian Festival of Plays and Playwrights (AFPP) 06 For Adventure and Beauty, Visit Kentucky’s Natural Arches 06 Beezwax 07 Tri-Cities Nightlife 08 Puzzle Page 09 Pets of the Week 10 Tusculum Professor Receives Summer Fellowship to Research Endangered Plant Species in East Tennessee 11 Things To Do 12 Tri-Cities Faces and Places

Contributing Staff Kathie Scalf

14 America Rallies for Afterschool Programs

Ken Silvers

Andy Ross

Biker Events

16 Windborne Singers Bring Old Songs, Bold Harmonies to Big Stone Gap

Wendy Hayden Ann Hartley

The Loafer

22 WQUT Concert Schedule

Po Box 39 Telford, Tn 37690 423-930-7319 www.theloafer.net theloaferonlineprint@gmail.com All advertisements are accepted and published by the publisher upon the representation that the agency and/or advertiser is authorized to publish the entire contents and subject matter thereof. The agency and/or advertiser will indemnify and save the publisher harmless from any lossof expense resulting from claims or suits based upon contents of any advertisement, including claims or suits for defamation, libel, right of privacy, plagiarism, and copyright infringement.

Founder: Bill Williams

LBD FAMILY MEDIA Let’s Get Social!

15 Beanz Biker Corner

columns & reviews

theloafer.net | January 23, 2024

Hello 2024! 17

Social Sentiments: Four Ways to Ruin Your Brand

19 Tea Time with Appalachian Barbie:

Decoding the American Diet 21 Pop Life Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom 23 Batteries Not Included: The Coffee Cups

NOTE

FROM THE

PUBLISHER Hello Friends!

2024 has certainly came in with a bang….. an ice cold bang! I hope everyone is staying warm and I pray for the homeless during these cold days. This week we are absolutely thrilled to feature a local 90s and 2000s rock bank Stitcher! I encourage to read the article about them and to listen to their music. There is no better way to take a trip back in time than to take in a good music show! Stitcher has a way of making you feel like a teenager again. I would love to see all of support all of our local artists and musicians as much as possible. Where in the world would we be without art and music to sooth our souls?!

Have a great week!

Love, Lisa Durbin Publisher

theloafer.net | January 23, 2024

Exploring our Local Music Scene: The Story of Stitcher I had the pleasure of sitting down one evening at The Wild Wing Café in Johnson City with an awesome group of musicians that seemed more like family than a band. When Cash landed here from Boston 7 years ago his goal was to keep music alive in himself and others. 6 years later after many projects with some great local talent he formed the band Stitcher with Rachel singing and playing bass, Weave as lead guitarist and Billy on drums. Together this group has a way of taking you back in time……. to the 1990s and 2000s. Their rock music from that era and their out of this world light show will make you feel like a teenager again and you will completely

forget you’re in 2024. I absolutely fell in love with this group of talented folks while listening to them banter back and forth and discuss just what they love about playing shows. To see the look on their faces while describing fans dancing or singing along all while looking like they are having the time of their lives really warmed my heart! This band thrives from the crowd energy at their shows. How often do we think about that while listening to a band at a bar or restaurant? I don’t think I realized just how much heart some of these musicians have for our reaction and feeling as fans. Stitcher loves playing locally and they really enjoy the tribute and cover shows but they are branching out and playing some national shows while also working on some original music which should be released very soon. You will not want to miss that release! The next time you make plans to hear a great band I would highly suggest you make Stitcher that band. While you are rocking to their wonderful music and being amazed by their light show just remember this is a group of business owners, fathers, sisters, friends all managing a crazy work and family life while living their passion of bringing wonderful music to us.

Upcoming Shows 1.26 9:00pm The Mountain Bristol, TN 3.08 9:00pm with Scotty Austin The Mountain Bristol, TN FOR BOOKING INFO call 423-930-0008 or Rhino Talent agency 720-938-0995 www.youtube.com/ @StitcherBandOfficial

Spotlight

theloafer.net | January 23, 2024

Johnson City

Johnson City, TN

TUESDAY Jan 23th Old Time Jam 5:00pm at Yee-Haw Brewing Company Brim & Marci Leal 6:30pm at Rocks Wood Fired Pizza WEDNESDAY Jan 24th

Bristol, TN/VA Bristol TN/Va THURSDAY Jan 25th Jim Lauderdale and The Game Changers 7:00pm at Bristol Casino Bar Chris Long 7:00pm at Cascade Draft House

Rheva & Keegan’s Irish Fiddle Tunes 5:30pm at Mulligan’s Gaming Pub HB Beverly 6:30pm at Rocks Wood Fired Pizza Parker Millsap & Robert Ellis 7:30pm at the Down Home THURSDAY Jan 25th

FRIDAY Jan 26th

Jason Mychaels 6:30pm at Rocks Wood FIred Pizza

The BIg Hug 8:00pm at Bristol Casino Bar

The Barefoot Movement 7:30pm at the Down Home

Damon Heath 8:00pm at The Corner

FRIDAY Jan 26th

Stitcher 9:00pm at The Mountain Kayla McKinney 9:30pm at Bristol Casino Bar

Jeff Lane 6:30pm at Rocks Wood FIred Pizza

SUNDAY Jan 28th Rheva & Keegan’s Irish Fiddle Tunes 5:30pm at Mulligan’s Gaming Pub Kingsport Kingsport, TN FRIDAY Jan 26th Dan Herrell & The Troubadours 8:00pm at Jericho Temple

Elizabethton Elizabethton, TN Wednesday Jan 24th Dan Herrell and Special Guests 7:00pm at Jiggy Rays FRIDAY Jan 26th Kasey Williams 7:00pm at Jiggy Rays SATURDAY Jan 27th

Southbound 9:00pm at CJ’s Sports Bar

Tennessee Songwriters Week Qualifying Round 5:00pm at Bonnie Kate Theater

SATURDAY Jan 27th

Blountville, TN Blountville

The Crossjacks 6:00pm at Gypsy Circus Cider Company Jeff Lane w/Quentin Horton and Matthew Oaks 7:00pm at Model City Tap House Copper Ridge 9:00pm at CJ’s Sports Bar

SATURDAY Jan 27th NightShift 7:00pm at Outdoorsman RoanRoan Mountain Mountain, TN SATURDAY Jan 27th The Twang Bangers 7:30pm at The Appalachian Station at 19E

Jason Edwards 7:00pm at The Elks Lodge Johnson City

SATURDAY Jan 20th

Below 7 8;00pm at Tulip’s Pub and Grub

Eric Cox 7:00pm at Cascade Draft House

Johnson City Jazz Collective 10:00pm at Capone’s

Alli Epperson 8:00pm at The Corner

SATURDAY Jan 27th Below 7 8;00pm at Tulip’s Pub and Grub

Mom Rock 9:30pm at Bristol Casino Bar MONDAY Jan 22nd

Hostage Situation 9:00pm at The Hideaway

Anthony Childress 7:00pm at Cascade Draft House

Poet | Strange Gods | Taylor Road 10:00pm at Capone’s

Submit Your Live Shows to: theloaferonlineprint@gmail.com or call 423-930-7319 to be Featured in the Loafer Spotlight

Barter Theatre, the official State Theater of Virginia and one of the nation’s longestrunning professional repertory companies at 90 years-old, is preparing for its 2024 Appalachian Festival of Plays and Playwrights, which will take place Thursday, Feb. 22-Sunday Feb. 25. “Each year, we receive hundreds of submissions of new Appalachian plays from playwrights hoping to develop their work. Six of these plays are chosen to be read at the AFPP,” said Associate Director of New Play Development, Nick Piper. “The playwrights are brought in for a week and provided with housing, travel, and a stipend so they can attend rehearsals with our company and continue to work on their plays before they are read to the public over the course of a long weekend.” Over the past two decades, the

AFPP has read over 130 new plays with nearly one-third of these plays going into full production at Barter. That is an unprecedented amount of new work being developed in theatres the size of Barter. “Many of these plays have gone on to production in theatres across the country. One of the great success stories from the AFPP is a play called Keep on the Sunny Side: The Songs and Stories of the Carter Family. This play was written by a local doctor named Doug Pote who happened to see the artistic director in the lobby after a show one night and said, ‘You should do a story on the Carter Family,’ and our artistic director said, ‘You should write it.’” Piper said. “ Doug said, “I’m not a writer, I’m a doctor”. But he had a passion for this story and this music, and with the help of Barter’s artistic staff, the

AFPP is the flagstone of Barter’s New Play Development Program

play was developed through the AFPP and has gone on to become the #1 requested play at Barter, and has been seen by nearly 200,000 people in 23 states and produced in dozens of theatres across the country. It is a play that truly celebrates this region.” According to Piper, it’s stories like this that make the AFPP an important part of Barter’s mission. One of the most unique and important aspects of the festival is that it is centered around the audience being a part of the development process. Each year hundreds of people come from all over the region and beyond to attend these free play readings to be a part of the process. After each reading, there is a moderated discussion with the audience so that the playwright has an opportunity to get feedback from the very people whose stories are being told–the Appalachian people. For more information about

the Barter Theatre’s upcoming season, its history, staff and leadership, visit: bartertheatre.com ABOUT BARTER THEATRE: Barter Theatre, the nation’s longest running professional theatre, is located in Abingdon, Virginia. The theatre opened in 1933 during the Great Depression. Founder Robert Porterfield offered patrons admission to the theatre by bartering food and livestock. Barter Theatre was designated as the State Theatre of Virginia in 1946. It exists today as one of the last year-round professional resident repertory theaters remaining in the United States. Barter Theatre is funded in part by The Virginia Commission for the Arts and The National Endowment for the Arts.

theloafer.net | January 23, 2024

Historic Barter Theatre Prepares for 2024 Appalachian Festival of Plays and Playwrights

theloafer.net | January 23, 2024

For Adventure and Beauty, Visit Kentucky’s Natural Arches (StatePoint) Kentucky’s natural arches. They are not just eye-catching, they are an adventure. Seeing a natural stone arch, whether thumbing through a magazine or finding one in nature, often elicits a sense of awe and wonder. The image of thousands of tons of rock seemingly suspended in midair can be difficult for the human brain to comprehend.

the right spot and looking out the window. Kentucky however, comes with an abundance of adventure,” says Mike Mangeot, commissioner, Kentucky Department of Tourism.

Natural arches, with their layers of rock and sediment, are the result of centuries of erosion from seas, rivers or weathering. These naturally formed wonders can be found all over the world, and more than 2,000 arches of varying shapes and sizes can be found in the great state of Kentucky. In fact, the Bluegrass State has more of these astonishing formations than any other location east of the Mississippi River.

For instance, to experience the glory of Natural Bridge in Slade, Ky., you must hike the trails through some of the most beautiful scenery in the entirety of the Daniel Boone National Forest. When you reach your destination, try not to let your jaw drop as you marvel at the sandstone formations that have been slowly sculpted in the 900-ton behemoth over the last 270 million years. Then make your way to the top of the arch itself, some 65 feet above its base, and take in one of the most spectacular views that the Daniel Boone National Forest has to offer.

“In many places, such as the Western United States, seeing a natural arch is often a matter of driving to

One of the many cool things about natural arches, particularly those in Kentucky, is that no two are alike.

For every massive arch like Natural Bridge, there are plenty of smaller, but no less amazing formations. A prime example is Angel Windows Arch. The top of the taller window is only 7-feet high and just as wide, thus giving visitors a chance to experience the intricate sandstone formation up close. Located in the Red River Gorge less than a tenth of a mile off a paved road, Angel Windows is the perfect short hike for everyone in the family. While a vast majority of Kentucky’s arches can be found in the southeastern part of the state, there are several scattered throughout the west as well. For geology fans who want to stick close to the city, Louisville’s Cherokee Park has what you are looking for, so long as you are ready to really look. In terms of arches, the Cherokee Park Double Arch is tiny when compared to formations like Natural Bridge. Standing just 5 feet high on the side of a hill and partly masked by foliage, spotting the Double Arch is essentially like finding a needle in a haystack. However, once you find it, you can’t help but be amazed at how a sinkhole caused solid limestone to erode and form not only one arch, but two stacked on top of each other. If you find yourself in west Kentucky near Paducah, make sure to check out Mantle Rock in nearby Smithland. Mantle Rock, located along the Cherokee Trail of Tears, is a 30-foot-high natural sandstone bridge spanning 188 feet. In addition to its massive size, it features extraordinary bluffs, shelters and honeycomb formations. This just scratches the surface of the natural arches that you can explore in Kentucky. For more information on the phenomenon and where to look for them, check out the Kentucky Visitor’s Guide: www.kentuckytourism.com. “Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures or to be blown away by breathtaking scenery, Kentucky, with its spectacular geologic formations, is the place to be,” says Mangeot.

NIGHTLIFE

WEDNESDAY Karaoke with Absolute Entertainment at The Pub Out Back (The Italian Pizza Pub) - Johnson City 7pm Karaoke w/ Eric Huskins VFW Post 2108 – Johnson City, TN 8pm Karaoke Night at Wonderland Lounge and Bar - Johnson City, TN 9pm Karaoke with Ron at Kingsport Moose Lodge 6:30pm Loudmouth Karaoke at Michael Waltrip Brewing Company - Bristol, VA on Wednesday, April 5th at 7pm THURSDAY Karaoke w/ Absolute Entertainment at Tulips Grub & Pub - Johnson City, TN 8pm Karaoke with Absolute Entertainment at Wild Wings Cafe - Johnson City, TN 9pm Karaoke at Numan’s - Johnson City, TN 10pm Karaoke at Jiggy Rays Pizzeria - Johnson City, TN Karaoke at Tipsy Toad Tavern - Jonesborough, TN FRIDAY Karaoke with Absolute Entertainment at Rainbow Asian Cuisine - Johnson City, TN 9pm Karaoke with Absolute Entertainment at The Sports Mill - Kingsport, TN 8pm Karaoke w/ Eric Huskins VFW Post 2108 – Johnson City, TN 8pm Karaoke at Numan’s – Johnson City, TN 10pm Karaoke with Handsome Hodge Entertainment at O’Mainnin’s Pub and Grille - Bristol, TN 10pm SATURDAY Karaoke with Absolute Entertainment at Tulips Grub & Pub Johnson City, TN 8pm Karaoke at Numan’s – Johnson City, TN 10pm Karaoke w/ Eric Huskins VFW Post 2108 – Johnson City, TN 8pm Karaoke at Numan’s – Johnson City, TN 10pm Karaoke with DJ Clyde and Prestige Entertainment at Macado’s -Kingsport, TN 9pm Karaoke with Handsome Hodge Entertainment at O’Mainnin’s Pub and Grille - Bristol, TN 10pm

TRIVIA

TUESDAY Team Trivia at Wild Wing Café Johnson City TN DJ Trivia at Union Street Taproom Erwin, TN 5pm Trivia at The Corner Bar Bristol, VA 8pm Trivia at Aubrey’s Johnson City 7pm WEDNESDAY Trivia at Tipsy Toad Jonesborough, TN 7pm Trivia Night Mellow Mushroom Bristol, VA 7pm Trivia at Aubrey’s Bristol 7pm THURSDAY Mellow Trivia at Mellow Mushroom Johnson City, TN- 7pm Trivia at Riverside Taphouse at South Fork Bluff City, TN 7pm

BINGO

TUESDAY Singo at Riverside Taphouse at South Fork Bluff City, TN 6:30pm

DJ NIGHT THURSDAY DJ B-Digital at O’Mainnin’s Pub and Grille Bristol, TN 10pm

WEDNESDAY Bingo at Tipton Street Pub Johnson City, TN 9pm Singo at Holy Taco & Cantina Boones Creek, TN 8pm Blazin’ Bingo at Mellow Mushroom Johnson City, TN 6pm

FRIDAY Handsome Hodge Entertainment at O’Mainnin’s Pub - Bristol, TN 10pm

THURSDAY Bingo at Mellow Mushroom Bristol VA 6pm Singo at Aubrey’s Bristol 7:00 PM

SUNDAY DJ B-Digital at O’Mainnin’s Pub and Grille Bristol, TN 10pm

SATURDAY Handsome Hodge Entertainment at O’Mainnin’s Pub - Bristol, TN 10pm

To have your events added to this list email: theloaferonlineprint@gmail.com or call: 423-930-7319

theloafer.net | January 23, 2024

TRI-CITIES

theloafer.net | January 23, 2024

SODOKU

CROSSWORD

Down 1. Walked decisively 2. Feed 3. In big numbers 4. "___ One Bites the Dust" 5. Syrup brand since 1902 6. President of Disney 7. Beatty and Sparks 8. Avoids 9. Buffalo bunch 10. 1997 Spielberg film 11. Family tree 12. Wrestling partners 14. Whales and elephants, say 15. Rampaging

ACROSS

DROP QUOTE

C RYPTO G RAM

FNAWM PNA HVM YHTFNYLZ OSAP ASZR FNM FVTETHZ WTCM AY ZAEM; TF TW FNM YHTFNZMWW PNA OSAP ZAEM'W FVHUMCTMW. — Oscar Wilde

33. "My country, ____ of thee..." 1. Elude the doorman 36. Of no consequence (to) 8. Ten Commandments verb 40. Hospital area, briefly 13. Vessel's capacity 41. Perjures oneself 14. "Scandal in ___" (Sherlock 42. Frighten Holmes story) 44. Atlantique, e.g. 16. Unverified 45. "Kubla Khan" author's monogram 17. Accustoming (to) 46. Address used by 18. Figures of speech? Uncle Remus 19. Desk phone unit 47. Late at night for cellphones, 20. Dispense gossip for example 21. Twisty turn 49. Competitor's chance for 22. ____ Bo (exercise system) redemption 23. Letters before tees 52. Bridge support 25. Wheelchair user's aid 53. Convenience 27. ___ Khan (Ismaili Imam) 54. Committed burglary 28. Previously 55. Like church glass 31. Nancy Pelosi, for one (abbr.) 56. "The best is ___ come" 57. Dancing Fred 32. Interacts

Answers to last week’s puzzles can be found on page 09.

24. "Will be," in a Doris Day song 25. Romped 26. "...___ worse than death" 29. Poe's "The ___ Heart" 30. She, in Milan 33. Dalton who played 007 34. Like navigable waterways 35. Extra 37. Adriatic country 38. James Bond's cocktail 39. More upright 43. Monstrous alter ego 45. Altercation 48. Attention-getting sound 49. Tabula description 50. Rescue crew, briefly 51. Stew ingredient

This month we are highlighting special needs animals at our Rescue.

There are 5 Penguins hidden in this issue of The Loafer. Can you find them all?

A X EL Axel is a special needs cat that is in desperate need of a furever home due to testing positive for feline leukemia virus. Shelter life is stressful enough, he needs a home where he will be the only cat or if there is another cat positive for FeLV that

would work. Axel shows no signs of illness and can have a long life filled with happiness and playful joy! He is approx 3 yrs old, has the cutest white mustache, so playful, neutered, current on vaccinations. Fostering is an option also.

Last Week's Puzzle Answers

Crossword

Cryptogram:

Dropquote:

"You know you're getting old when all the names in your black book have M. D. after them."

"Life be not so short but that there is always time for courtesy."

Sudoku

G G IE

This beauty is Maggie!!! She is an American Staffordshire Terrier that loves to be around people. Maggie weighs 64 lbs, has a beautiful brindle coat, knows basic commands, house trained, good on a leash, loves to

go on walks and roll around in the grass!!! She is good with kids 7+ due to high energy, no cats, dog selective, spayed, current on vaccinations and microchipped. Bday 5/30/19

If you are interested in adopting : The Bridge Home No Kill Animal Shelter 423-239-5237 • 2061 Highway 75 Blountville, TN Facebook: bridgehome

bridgehome.org

theloafer.net | January 23, 2024

PETS

OF THE WEEK

theloafer.net | January 23, 2024

Tusculum Professor Receives Summer Fellowshipto Research Endangered Plant Species in East Tennessee “We live, work and play in one of the most environmentally rich regions of the country, and it is vital that we take all possible measures to protect and preserve the natural treasures we are blessed to enjoy,” Dr. Monteleone said. “I am grateful Dr. Susan Monteleone, who serves as to the Appalachian College Association the lead environmental science faculty and the university for supporting this member, received the fellowship from the research of an important species with Appalachian College Association. Her work the goal of sustaining the yellow marsh will take place in the spring and summer marigold and enabling it to flourish and will be focused in Phineas Fen, a moving forward.” tributary to the Paint Creek drainage area Dr. Monteleone said this version of the in the northeast Unaka Ranger District of marigold is a widespread native perennial Cherokee National Forest. in the Ranunculus family. It blooms from mid-April to June, with its seeds becoming available in the summer. An associate professor of biology at Tusculum University has earned a fellowship for a post-doctoral research project that will study the yellow marsh marigold, an at-risk flower species.

Dr. Susan Monteleone, left, works with student Mirna Jacinto Ramirez in 2023.

The yellow marsh marigold is a critically imperiled rhizomatous herbaceous species in its southern range. This species has been found in Carter, Greene and Johnson counties in Northeast Tennessee. Dr. Monteleone said a small amount of the plant was transplanted from Allen Gap on the side of Tenn. Highway 70 to Phineas Fen, a wetland habitat. Two transplantation events resulted in 20% surviving after the second year.

Dr. Monteleone said recent studies of this plant have been limited and concentrated on its medicinal properties. Her research will examine physical and biological conditions that influence the yellow marsh marigold’s reproduction and potentially impact its endangered status, key pollinator associations, seed production and dispersal as well as growth. Dr. Monteleone has served on the Tusculum faculty since 2017. Her prior research includes ecological studies in Marshall Forest in Rome, Georgia, one of the few remaining urban old growth forests in the United States. She was awarded a grant in 2016 from Beta Beta Beta, a national biology honor society, to fund and encourage student participation in undergraduate research. As a Tusculum faculty member, she has engaged her students in research activities that result in presentations at the university’s Academic Symposium and the Natural Sciences Department’s senior seminar. Her students receive active and experiential learning at the university’s Paul E. Hayden Educational Wetland and in Tusculum’s Level 1 arboretum. She was

instrumental in establishing the Kappa Delta Eta chapter of Beta Beta Beta at Tusculum in 2022. Dr. Monteleone has been featured in a variety of publications and has presented at numerous professional conferences. Supplementary information about Tusculum’s environmental science program is available at site.tusculum.edu/environmentalscience/. To learn more about the university, please visit www.tusculum.edu.

Dr. Susan Monteleone, foreground, speaks during the Natural Sciences Department’s senior seminar in 2022.

JOHNSON CITY SATURDAYS ACOA (adult children of alcoholics) 1:30-3:00pm. Call for info Bill 423-444-6107 or Cheryl 423-262-6149 THURSDAY JAN 25TH Tri-Cities Turtles Run Club 12:45pm at Yee-Haw Brewing Co. Dancing Orcas Canvas Class 6:00pm at Into the Fire FRIDAY JAN 26TH Johnson City Love & Hiking Date For Couples (Self-Guided) 7:00am at Willow Springs Park Tiebreakers Frosty Pinball Showdown Tournament 6:00pm at Tiebreakers SATURDAY JAN 27TH Johnson City Love & Hiking Date For Couples (Self-Guided) 7:00am at Willow Springs Park Penguin Trio Kids Canvas 10:00am at Into the Fire Little League Puppy and Dog Playtime 12:00pm at The Classy Canine Stand Up Special with Will Abeles 8:00pm at Wallace Theatre

BRISTOL WEDNESDAY JAN 24TH Open Mic 8:00pm at Blue Ridge Comedy Club

THURSDAY JAN 25TH “Ice Skating” Canvas Class 6:00 PM at Kil'n Time Contemporary Ceramics FRIDAY JAN 26TH “Snow Llama” Canvas Class 6:00 PM at Kil'n Time Contemporary Ceramics Shelly Belly 8:00pm at Blue Ridge Comedy Club SATURDAY JAN 27TH Board Game Night 5:00pm at Bristol Public Library Shelly Belly 8:00pm, 10:00pm at Blue Ridge Comedy Club SUNDAY JAN 28TH Parenting Prime Time – Make Parenting Sweet 8:00am at Parenting Sweet

SUNDAY JAN 28TH East Tennessee Rv Show 10::00am at MeadowView Conference Center

JONESBOROUGH TUESDAYS Jonesborough Storytelling Guild “Stories n’More” Show 7:00pm at The Intl. Storytelling Center THURSDAY JAN 25TH

ABINGDON, VA WEDNESDAY JAN 24TH Bingo 5:00pm at Abingdon Community Center FRIDAY DEC JAN 26TH Movies for Adults 2:00pm at Washington County Public Library SUNDAY JAN 28TH Bingo 5:00pm at Abingdon Community Center

Macrame Plant Hanger Workshop ROAN MOUNTAIN 6:30pm at Mill Spring SUNDAY JAN 28TH Makers Market Raptors of the Roan 10:00am at Roan Mountain State Park SATURDAY JAN 26TH Bob Ross Paint Class 10:00am FLAG POND at Mill Spring Makers Market SATURDAY JAN 27TH Historic Jonesborough Snakeden Ridge Loop Hike Town Tour 1:00pm at Chester Inn 9:30am at Lamar Alexander Rocky Fork State Park State Historic Site

KINGSPORT FRIDAY JAN 26TH East Tennessee Rv Show 10::00am at MeadowView Conference Center SATURDAY JAN 27TH East Tennessee Rv Show 10::00am at MeadowView Conference Center Nature: Wolf Howling 10:00am at Bays Mountain Park & Planetarium To be featured in The Loafer's Things to Do email us at: theloaferonlineprint@gmail.com or call 423-930-7319

theloafer.net | January 23, 2024

THINGS TO DO

theloafer.net | January 23, 2024 12

theloafer.net | January 23, 2024

America Rallies for Afterschool Programs (StatePoint) Afterschool programs keep children safe, inspire them to learn, and give working parents the peace of mind that comes with knowing their kids are supervised and learning after the school day ends. There is an urgent need for greater investments in these programs, as U.S. children and youth try to recover academically and socially from the pandemic. Studies show there aren’t nearly enough afterschool and summer learning programs. For every child in an afterschool program, four more are waiting to get in. Some 24.7 million U.S. children not in an afterschool program would be enrolled if a program were available to them. Additionally, there are significant inequities, with unmet demand for afterschool programs significantly higher among Latino and Black children than children overall.

country this fall. Organized by the Afterschool Alliance, this year’s events include academic contests, STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) demonstrations, community service events, debates and discussions, student art shows and performances, family fun nights, runs and walks, and much more. Events are focused on academics, health and well-being, the arts, civic engagement, STEM learning, fitness and healthy eating, cyberbullying prevention and more. To learn more about “Lights On Afterschool” and how to participate, visit afterschoolalliance.org.

“Communities are coming together to showcase the skills students gain and the talents they develop in their afterschool programs,” says Jodi Grant, executive director of the Afterschool Alliance. “We need to celebrate and support Each year, “Lights On Afterschool” the programs that do so much to help celebrates the achievements of afterschool students and draws attention students succeed in school and in life. We need sustained investments and increased to the need for more afterschool support, so all students and families will programs. A million people are participating in more than 8,000 “Lights finally have access to the afterschool On Afterschool” events around the programs they need.”

WOOD FIRED PIZZA. BURGERS. DRINKS. & FUN. TUES. Jan. 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd & 30th

BRIM & MARCI LEAL

WED. Jan. 3rd, 10th, 17th, 24th & 31st

HB BEVERLY

THUR. Jan. 4th 11th, 18th & 25th

JUSTIN MYCHALS

HAPPY HOUR Visit Our Website for Daily Specials and Events

3119 BRISTOL HWY, JOHNSON CITY, TN (423) 262-0444

PIG OUT MENU Available for a Limited Time

HONEY SMOKIN’ PORK TACOS ULTIMATE FRIED PORK TENDERLOIN SANDWICH PIG OUT SANDWICH PIG OUT NACHOS PIG OUT SALAD

Useless Facts sponsored by biker wear Useless Facts about 2024: The Year 2024: A Glimpse into the Future. 2024 is here, and it promises to be an exciting year filled with new advancements and discoveries. From technological breakthroughs to significant events, here are just a few interesting facts about 2024 that will leave you amazed! 1. The Rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI). In 2024, AI will continue to revolutionize various industries, including healthcare, finance, and transportation. With its ability to analyze vast amounts of data and make predictions, AI will play a crucial role in shaping the future. 2. Self-Driving Cars Take Center Stage. Self-driving cars will become more prevalent in 2024, with major automakers introducing advanced autonomous features. These vehicles will enhance road safety, reduce traffic congestion, and provide a more convenient mode of transportation. 3. The Launch of James Webb Space Telescope. The James Webb Space Telescope, set to launch in 2024, will revolutionize our understanding of the universe. With its advanced capabilities, this telescope will enable scientists to observe distant galaxies, study exoplanets, and unravel the mysteries of the cosmos. 4. The First Human Mission to Mars. In 2024, plans for the first human mission to Mars will take shape, bringing us one step closer to becoming a multiplanetary species. This historic endeavor will push the boundaries of human exploration and pave the way for future interplanetary missions. 5. Flying Cars Become a Reality. In 2024, flying cars will transition from science fiction to reality, with prototypes hitting the skies. These vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) vehicles will revolutionize urban mobility, alleviating traffic congestion and providing a new dimension of transportation.

Useless Facts

Sponsored By Biker Wear

theloafer.net | January 23, 2024

Windborne Singers Bring Old Songs, Bold Harmonies to Big Stone Gap Internationally acclaimed vocal ensemble Windborne specializes in close harmony singing, shifting effortlessly between drastically different styles of traditional music in a captivating show drawing on the singers’ deep roots in traditions of vocal harmony. Known for the innovation of their arrangements, their harmonies are bold and anything but predictable. The quartet will perform on Friday, Jan. 26th at 7 p.m. in the Goodloe Center at Mountain Empire Community College. In conjunction with the W. Campbell Edmonds Concert Series and MECC, the performance is free and open to the public. For more information and to make

reservations please visit proartva.org. With a 20-year background studying polyphonic music around the world, Lauren Breunig, Jeremy Carter-Gordon, Lynn Rowan, and Will Rowan share a vibrant energy onstage with a blending of voices that can only come from decades of friendship alongside dedicated practice. The ensemble brings old songs into the present, drawing listeners along on a journey that spans continents and centuries, illuminating and expanding on the profound power and variation of the human voice. The singers educate as they entertain, sharing stories about their songs and explaining the context and characteristics of

the styles in which they sing. Their musical knowledge spans many countries and cultures, but they remain deeply rooted in American folk singing traditions. Hailed by BBC Traveling Folk as, “the most exciting vocal group in a generation,” Windborne has toured as cultural ambassadors with the U.S. State Department through American Music Abroad, and their latest project is to bring together songs from four hundred years of movements for people’s rights and sing them for the struggles of today. Pro-Art’s spring season is underway! Explore the complete schedule of events, purchase season tickets, and make reservations at proartva. org. Season tickets are valid for all performances of the 47th season and can be purchased online, in person at any show, or by calling (276) 376-4520. Pro-Art partners with a variety

of venues, therefore individuals with mobility issues or general questions are encouraged to call (276) 376-4520 or email proart@uvawise.edu. For evolving conditions related to weather cancellations, or similar unforeseen circumstances, patrons are encouraged to check proartva.org for up-todate information. Pro-Art is supported in part by the Virginia Commission for the Arts, which receives support from the Virginia General Assembly and the National Endowment for the Arts, as well as the C. Bascom Slemp Foundation, The University of Virginia’s College at Wise, Mountain Empire Community College, the Columbus Phipps Foundation, and the Lee County Community Foundation.

Your brand reputation is everything. Protecting it means constantly maintaining your social media presence and safeguarding against a potential crisis. Avoiding four simple mistakes can help you maintain an image that will draw in your target audience and help build relationships that can lead to sales.

your brand will suffer. Grammatical Errors Grammar mistakes are the best way to keep your content from being shared. Errors indicate an unstructured strategy and unverified content. Read your content out loud before posting to catch errors before you share it with your audience. Putting your best foot forward starts with creating a clear message.

will help the 20% promotional material fall into place. Not Engaging Your Audience

Social media is about having conversations with your audience. Neglecting comments and questions will raise concerns about your level of customer service and how much value you place on your potential Failure to Continue Learning customers. Respond to every Overpromoting Your Brand Learning is a constant process. single comment and question to If you feel as if you already know The 80/20 social media marketing let your audience know they are everything there is to know rule states that 80% of your posts being heard. Social media is a about your field, how can your should provide value or solve two way street. If your audience followers expect to learn from problems for your audience is talking to a brick wall, they are you? Refusal to grow hinders and 20% should promote your ability to be seen as a unlikely to purchase your product your business. When you alter leader because you are showing that dynamic, you risk losing or service. your followers that you are followers and business. Your Simple actions can make or not open to varying opinions. goal is to assist your audience in break your brand. How far are The world is full of lessons to finding solutions to their issues. you willing to go to build your learn and if you are unwilling to Spending 80% of your time focused on solving problems pursue continuous education, reputation?

Social Sentiments By Wendy Hayden socialsentiments @outlook.com

socialsentiments.net

theloafer.net | January 23, 2024

Four Ways to Ruin Your Brand

theloafer.net | January 23, 2024 18

by Kathie Scalf

In an effort to optimize my physical and mental health, as well as to pinpoint some ongoing hormone issues, I decided in 2024 to refine my already limited diet and move forward with completely clean eating. For me that meant eliminating multiple common causes of inflammation and only consuming 1-ingredient foods, adding supplements as needed, and focusing on purchasing as close to home-grown as my budget will allow. I figured this would be a negligible difference in eating habits, as I’ve been a highly conscious food consumer my whole life; but once I began inspecting every single label and leaving nothing to assumption, I was shocked by just how many toxic and seemingly unnecessary ingredients are being added to our food. They’re sneaking this stuff into practically every item on our shelves and you have to ask yourself ‘why’? I’ve counted calories my whole life; being raised by a mother who started taking me along to her Weight Watchers meetings at the age of 7 will do that to a person. About 10 years ago I met my ex-husband who competed in the local body-building circuit so I became even more aware of proper eating, learning how to calculate macros and the importance of what makes up our food versus simple calorie restriction. Since then I’ve stuck primarily to the outer perimeter of the supermarket, consuming primarily produce, meats, and dairy and avoiding the packaged processed stuff. I felt like I was doing pretty well until this month when I started double checking the labels on things I presumed to be healthy and basically single-ingredient food. I wanted to focus on improving my gut health to improve my overall bodily function and naturally stabilize my hormone imbalances, so I completely removed gluten, soy, seed oils, corn, added sugars, and most dairy except strong sources of probiotics. As I

began working through my current daily diet, I took the time to examine nutrition labels one-by-one just to confirm I was in compliance and had a rude awakening- not a single thing I was consuming conformed to that list. My peanut butter had seed oils and sugar, my marinade full of gluten, sugar and soy; even my nonstick ‘olive oil’ spray contained soy and a chemical cocktail! The turkey sausage and bacon I consumed religiously for breakfast had a list of ingredients 15 deep, most of which I couldn’t pronounce and even my skinless, boneless chicken breast had an added 15% chemical solution injection!

turns out they’re sneaking sugar into practically everything. And what does ‘added’ sugar even mean? Well, there’s definitely a difference in naturally occurring and added sugars and when you think about it, it’s not difficult to differentiate. You want your sugar to come from naturally occurring sources like fresh fruit (key word ‘fresh’) and dairy. The only sugar in my diet is now sourced from the cantaloupe and 1/2C low-fat/high protein cottage cheese I have at breakfast, and the probiotic-rich kefir I put in my post-run shake. Also, aside from those two dairy products, I’ve eliminated everything else, which includes cheese, butter and even coffee No one needs this crap in their food! creamer. Dairy is full of weird hormones American groceries contain known they’re shooting into the cattle to make toxins and carcinogens that the rest of the world has banned and it’s alarming. them produce more and considering I’m having issues regulating my own If you don’t believe me you can google search it, or go to Europe and find out for hormones at the moment, I certainly do not want to take in any extra. yourself. A person can galivant across Italy, eating pasta and drinking wine with Soy, corn, and seed oils run rampant wild abandon, and never experience the and it’s important to double check bloat and side-effects off one single bowl everything. As I previously mentioned, of pasta from Carrabbas here in the US. I was shocked to find out I was paying Our bodies are having adverse reactions $1 more for ‘olive oil’ nonstick spray to all the weird stuff we can’t pronounce in an effort to be healthy, only to find that is being added to make it filling and out it was actually EVOO plus soy addictive, and it’s making us sick. lechtin and dimethyl silicone (WTH is that??) The easiest way to avoid all I’ll be honest with you, I never cared to these unnecessary toxins and sources know what gluten was and just wrote of inflammation is to stick to actual it off as a diet fad that was a major 1-ingredient sources. I now use 100% annoyance working in the restaurant olive, coconut or avocado oil for my industry. Even still, I’m not proper nonstick needs, and while it does certain, but basically understand it to contain fats and calories, they’re the be a sticky, unnecessary protein added good kind and perfectly healthy in to food to make it hold shape and moderation. I make my own salad add texture and flavor. In my mind, I dressing using olive oil, lemon juice, associate it with glue; glue=gluten=not and a blend of herbs and spices instead good. Because I still don’t really understand it but just know its an added of buying bottled. I’ve replaced my chemical, I avoid sources of it altogether morning turkey sausage by buying 93/7 ground turkey and seasoning myself – that includes ‘gluten free’ versions with rosemary, sage, garlic salt and a of things like bread. I am sticking to pepper blend. Keep your diet simple; 1-ingredient food sources, and even popular GF brands like Dave’s and Udi’s most everything needs little more than a toss in olive oil, herbs, salt and pepper to have a list of chemicals a mile long. Instead, I opt for potatoes or rice to meet be delicious. my carbohydrate needs. As far as meat is concerned, it is Added sugar was another one that was a bit tricky to hammer out. Obvious sugar sources like candy and cakes stand out like a sore thumb, but it

financially difficult to navigate this. First, stay away from processed sources like deli meats and opt for lean, whole options only; things like chicken,

turkey, eggs, lamb, and beef. But the meat industry is really, really gross and deceptive, with livestock being kept in deplorable, inhumane conditions. I personally don’t eat pork just because pigs in their natural state will eat anything, but in captivity are fed the worst crap you can imagine, held kneedeep in their own excrement. Major brands will slap words like “cage free” and “grass fed” on their labels as a way to deceive consumers into spending more and not investigating the food sources, when these terms mean next to nothing. Try to only buy livestock that is labeled “animal welfare approved,” it’s pricey, but it’s worthwhile in both quality and clear conscience. This dietary approach might seem extreme, especially considering how difficult it has been made to eat this way. But I urge you to at least familiarize yourself with these factors and consider making small steps toward elimination. It’s only for your benefit and is such a strong investment in your future health and happiness. Happy eating!

XO - Kathie

theloafer.net | January 23, 2024

Decoding the American Diet

theloafer.net | January 23, 2024 20

Jason Momoa first burst onto the big screen as Aquaman in 2018, and he returns as the famous comic book character in the sequel, "Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom". The film picks up several years after Arthur Curry (Aquaman) was crowned King of Atlants, which occurred after he dethroned his half-brother Orm (Patrick Wilson). Arthur and wife Mera (Amber Heard) now have a son, Arthur Jr., and as a result the King splits his time between land and sea. While Arthur is living his happy life, David Kane (Yahya AbdulMateen II), the Black Manta, is plotting to kill Aquaman and his family in order to seek revenge for the death of his father. Kane has teamed with Stephen Shin (Randall Park), a marine biologist, in an attempt to find ancient Atlantean artifacts, which could be used against Aquaman. Kane does manage to find a black, but extremely dangerous trident, which his plans to use against our underwater hero. The trident Kane has in his possession was used by an

Pop Life

By Ken Silvers theloaferonlineprint @gmail.com

evil leader, and was hidden by Atlanteans so it could never be used again. As several months pass, Kane attacks Atlantis, with an ancient Atlantean ship he and Shin found in their undersea explorations. Kane is after orichalcum, which can be used for deadly purposes in his battle with Aquaman and his kingdom. As if his theft of orichalcum isn't bad enough, the metal emits large qualities of greenhouse gases, which is causing extreme weather across the planet. Arthur is not able to find Kane, so he breaks Orm out of prison to help in the effort. While Orm is not thrilled to help his half-brother, who took his crown and Mera, he finally agrees to assist. The two manage to find Kane's location, a volcanic island in the South Pacific, and head out to confront the pirate/mercenary. At this point the plot involves kidnapping, a trip to Antarctica, bantering between Arthur and Orm, and exciting fights and battle sequences. The film ends on a happy note for all involved, and the lone post credits scene is humorous, but leads to no sequel, as the world of DC movies is about to be re-booted. The performances in the film are all enjoyable, with Momoa once again having a blast as Aquaman. He and Wilson have great chemistry as the halfbrothers, and Nicole Kidman is again very effective as Atlanna. As for Heard, despite all the off-screen controversy that has surrounded the actress, she is still great in the role of Mera. Abdul-Mateen II, is given more

time in the sequel to keep the revenge seeking Black Manta in villainous form, and does so effectively. Plus, we have the return of Dolph Lundgren as Nereus, the king of Xebel and Mera's father. The film's special effects are on par with the first film, and I will never understand why the original film wasn't nominated for the Best Special Effects Oscar, as the underwater scenes are beautiful and often amazing. The story has heart, humor, thrills, and the giant seahorse Storm, which all add up to

a great superhero film in my book. This is apparently Momoa's last appearance as Aquaman, and I'm sure he will miss the role, as the aforementioned DC film reboot takes flight with "Superman Legacy", scheduled for 2025. Overall, "Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom" is an enjoyable story for those seeking a good time at the theater, and I do recommend you catch the film on the big screen. (Rated PG-13)

theloafer.net | January 23, 2024

Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom

theloafer.net | January 23, 2024

CONCERT SCHEDULE Bristol

BRISTOL TN/VA

PARAMOUNT Jan 26 Paul Reiser Feb 3 Brad Upton Feb 15 Mike Goodwin Feb 20 Farm & Fun Time featuring St. Paul & The Broken Bones Mar 2 Asleep at the Wheel Mar 3 Twitty & Lynn Mar 9 Tartan Terrors Apr 10 John Oats Apr 25 Glenn Miller Orchestra

Feb 3 Feb 17 Feb 23 Mar 16 Apr 20 Jun 15

Song of the Mountains with The Malpass Brothers and The Kody Norris Show Big Gun AC/DC Tribute William Golden and the Goldens Carson Peters and Iron Mountain Aaron Tippin Mark Lowry & Friends with Endless Highway and The Sound

KNOXVILLE TN

Knoxville

BIJOU THEATRE Jan 28 Judy Collins Feb 2 Scott Miller Feb 9 Big Something MARTIN CENTER FOR THE ARTS Jan 18 Black Jacket Symphony performs Feb 10 Dailey & Vincent Feb 16 & 17 Erick Baker Journey’s Escape Album Mar 6 Geoff Tate and Feb 2 Three Dog Night Adrian Vandenberg Feb 15 Larry Fleet with Dalton Dover Mar 10 Steven Curtis Chapman Apr 1 ZZ Top Apr 13 The Chain-Fleetwood Mac TENNESSEE THEATRE Tribute Band Jan 27 Ron White Apr 25 Rain: A tribute to the Beatles Feb 7 Dwight Yoakam Feb 24 Diana Krall Mar 1 Godsmack GREENVILLE Mar 2 Steve Trevino Mar 16 Marc Broussard NISWONGER PERFORMING ARTS CENTER Mar 26 Scott Bradlee’s Jan 19 Rhonda Vincent Postmodern Jukebox Jan 22 Drumline Live Apr 20 Ashley McBryde Jan 27 The Guess Who Apr 25 Nickel Creek Feb 2 Dugger Band May 1 Bonnie Raitt Feb 4 The Canine Stars Jun 8 Brad Williams Feb 10 Chris Janson THOMPSON BOWLING ARENA Feb 19 Drew & Ellie Holcomb Jan 13 Aerosmith and The Black Crowes Mar 1 The Steeldrivers Feb 8 Disturbed with Falling in Reverse Mar 9 Jeff Allen and Plush Mar 6 Sawyer Brown Feb 18 Winter Jam ’24 with Crowder, Mar 22 Stayin Alive: One night of the LeCrae, Cain and many others Bee Gees Feb 23 Riley Green Apr 5 Evil Woman-The American ELO Mar 15 Lynyrd Skynyrd and ZZ Top with Apr 13 Firehouse Black Stone Cherry May 4 Anthem Lights Mar 16 Dan + Shay May 10 John Anderson Acoustic Mar 28 Avenged Sevenfold with Poppy & May 14 Brothers of the Heart Sullivan King Apr 4 Sam Hunt MARION VA Apr 6 Bert Kreischer Apr 16 Tyler Childers with 49 Winchester THE LINCOLN THEATRE Apr 26 Tim McGraw and Carly Pearce Jan 27 Molly Hatchet with Peacemaker

JOHNSON CITY TN

JOHNSON CITY

GREENEVILLE TN

MARION, VA

May 9

Zach Bryan

KNOXVILLE CIVIC AUDITORIUM: Feb 15 Matt Rife Mar 1 The Fab Four performs The Beatles Rubber Soul Mar 5 Joe Bonamassa Mar 21-24 Big Ears Festival with Herbie Hancock, John Paul Jones + more KNOXVILLE CIVIC COLISEUM: Feb 4 Theo Von Mar 22 Gabriel Iglesias Mar 27 Reo Speedwagon and Rick Springfield May 11 Kevin Gates July 25 Jordan Davis

NASHVILLE TN

Nashville

RYMAN AUDITORIUM Jan 20 American Aquarium Jan 24 Mr. Big with The Smithereens Jan 28 Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons Jan 29 Elvis Costello & The Imposters with Charlie Sexton Feb 1 The Milk Carton Kids Feb 3 Three Dog Night Feb 9 Grace Potter Feb 14 & 15 Band Of Horses Feb 16 & 17 Clint Black Feb 21 & 22 Oliver Anthony Feb 24 Kenny Wayne Shepherd Feb 25 Billy Strings Feb 27 Godsmack Feb 28 Jon Batiste Mar 8 & 9 Greensky Bluegrass with Daniel Donato’s Cosmic Country Mar 12 Tesla Mar 14 K.C. & The Sunshine Band Mar 16 Extreme Apr 2 Dustin Lynch Apr 4 The Wood Brothers Apr 5 & 6 Black Pumas Apr 9 Casting Crowns Apr 26 Leftover Salmon & the Infamous Stringdusters May 4 Tracy Lawrence May 10 & 11 Amy Grant Jun 6-9 Matt Rife June 21 & 22 Blackberry Smoke BRIDGESTONE ARENA Jan 23 Tool with Elder Feb 2 Cody Johnson

Feb 14 Feb 9 Feb 17

Anita Baker Pantera with Lamb of God Disturbed with Falling in Reverse and Plush Feb 23 Billy Strings Feb 24 Billy Strings Mar 1 Sam Hunt Mar 21 Dan + Shay Mar 29 Chris Tomblin Mar 31 Fall Out Boy & Jimmy Eat World Apr 14 Jeff Dunham Apr 18 & 19 Tyler Childers Apr 25 Tim McGraw Apr 29 The Postal Service with Death Cab For Cutie and Pulp May 11 Bad Bunny May 24 & 25 Noah Kahan Jun 3 Niall Horan Jun 14 Luis Miguel Jun 23 Alanis Morissette, Joan Jett & Morgan Wade BROOKLYN BOWL May 16 Mammoth WVH BROWN COUNTY MUSIC CENTER Feb 10 Yacht Rock Revue Mar 2 John Michael Montgomery Mar 24 Steve HackettGenesis Revisited May 4 Beth Hart NASHVILLE MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM Oct 10 Three Days Grace and Chevelle Oct 26 -28 Hardy with Lainey Wilson ASCEND AMPHITHEATRE Apr 27 Cody Jinks May 31 & Jun 1 Lainey Wilson Jun 22 Jul 12 Aug 13

Cypress Hill Styx, Foreigner and John Waite Creed with Tonic and Finger Eleven

NISSAN STADIUM Jul 20 Def Leppard and Journey

ASHEVILLE NC

ASHEVILLE, NC

EXPLOREASHEVILLE.COM ARENA Feb 16-18 Billy Strings THE ORANGE PEEL Jan 20 The Milk Carton Kids

CALL WQUT @ 477-1015 FOR MORE CONCERT INFORMATION OR VISIT WWW.WQUT.COM

How many coffee mugs do reasons and how hard it would you think exist in the world? be to replace them if anything Whenever I walk around any given happened. Some of those mugs thrift store there is always a huge now live on my desk, where they shelf full of them. If one only ever hold things that are useful and I went thrifting for mugs to fill a can see them and smile warmly kitchen in their new home, you’d when I’m in a panic over whatever barely put in a dent in the number thing I’m working on at the out there, with the added thrill moment. But most of these mugs of giving your friends and family have lived in two cabinets in my the impression you retired from kitchen, by where the phone used Magnavox in 1994. to be. See, I have a thing for coffee mugs. I love them. I love the weird and fun ones and I’ve been given a few as gifts over the years. The problem, however, is that I don’t use as many of the coffee mugs I own. I’d say that I, easily, own at least twenty coffee mugs. However, given the course of the year, I tend to cycle between only four. Sure, when company comes I need extra mugs, but most mornings I reach for my Mr. Rogers mug or the one celebrating the 1995 Cinematic opus “Congo: The Movie.” Some mugs I don’t want to use as much, if at all, due to sentimental

Batteries Not Included

By Andy Ross theloaferonlineprint @gmail.com

With a new year starting I fell into a not uncommon “new year, new me, new organized life” trap. After spending a couple of years dealing with a highly compacted and congested mug situation, I decided it was time I took every mug in the cabinet out, determined which ones I needed to leave in there and put the rest in a storage tub in my basement. Why? Because as I said I am rather sentimental and like thrift stores need more mugs anyway. Remember how I said I thought there were 20? Reader, there

wasn’t. What I thought would be a simple exercise in de-cluttering turned into “How is it my dining room table is full of mugs?” There were mugs I had long forgotten about buying. One of which was a set of mugs with property values from Monopoly on them. I remember getting them at Target seven years ago. “Oh! That’s fun! I need that!” I thought to myself. I’ve used them maybe once and they’ve spent most of those seven years resigned to the deep, back corners. What surprised me the most wasn’t the numerous pop culture-themed mugs, but all the random ones from various tourist museums. Some of which I am 98% positive I haven’t visited. How did I wind up with these? Were they gifts? Were they given to someone, then that person didn’t want them so they passed them on to me? Is it my job to then pass them on to

someone else? I am uncertain. When I had finally finished and filled two storage tubs—that’s all I’ll say about that—I found I had so much more space in my cabinets than I thought. I now have about eight mugs up there, the four I use most of the time, and a few seasonal ones for holidays. It’s nice to open the cabinet and see breathing room about my cups, instead of a toppling mass of mugs that was surely bound to fall on me someday. Will I keep this spirit of organization going to other parts of the house? I doubt it, but it is a start and it has made my mornings a little better. I suppose I can count that as a win. By the way, if you need a mug that marks you come in third at a country club golf tournament in 1997, let me know. I somehow have three. See you next week.

theloafer.net | January 23, 2024

The Coffee Cups