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
Hello Friends!
As we head into another school year I would like to mention a few things that I think are really important. Let us all remember to teach our children that being mean to a child for any reason is absolutely not tolerated. It shouldn’t matter if that child is rich or poor, skinny or fluffy, short or tall, smart or challenged or any other reason. One of my kids was bullied for having red hair! The word of the year should be kindness. Let’s be kind to everyone. Wouldn’t the world be a much better place if we all practiced kindness? Also if you are lucky enough to be able to provide your family with everything they need to start off the year prepared why not reach out to help someone else in need? My kids have always enjoyed giving a friend some supplies or even paying for a field trip. I know my heart can be too big sometimes and it tends to add more stress to my already hectic life but if everyone pitched in to help others it would be so much easier on those of us that want to save them all. I love all of you and I hope you have a great week!
Lisa Durbin
Bristol TN/Va
THURSDAY Aug 1st
Craig Wayne Boyd
7:00pm at Bristol Casino Bar
Sounds of Summer:
Marques Puckett and 8 Second Ride 7:00pm at Downtown Center
FRIDAY Aug 2nd
Hannah Wheeler & the Heartaches 7:00pm at Bristol Casino Bar
Vagabon Brew 7:00pm at Cascade Draft House
Rusty Steel
8:00pm at The Corner
Craig Street Ramblers
10:00pm at Bristol Casino Bar
Vaden Landers Band
10:00pm at O’Mainnin’s Pub
SATURDAY Aug 3rd
Lauren Cole Band 7:00pm at Bristol Casino Bar
Scotty Melton and Cameron Ragsdale 7:00pm at Cascade Draft House
jïmïnjördï
8:00pm at The Corner
Victor Lawson and Boogie Chillen
10:00pm at Bristol Casino Bar
Spotlight
The Southbound Band 10:00pm at O’Mainnin’s Pub
MONDAY Aug 5th
Anthony Childress 7:00pm at Cascade Draft House
TUESDAY Aug 6th
Sounds of Summer: Troublesome Hollow 7:00pm at Downtown Center
Johnson City
WEDNESDAY July 31st
Rheva & Keegan’s
Irish Fiddle Tunes 5:30pm at Mulligan’s Gaming Pub
HB Beverly 6:30pm at Rocks Wood Fired Pizza
THURSDAY Aug 1st
Justin Mychaels 6:30pm at Rocks Wood FIred Pizza
FRIDAY Aug 2nd
Jeff Lane 6:30pm at Rocks Wood FIred Pizza
Slick Cadillac Band 8:00pm at Tulip’s Grub & Pub
Daniel Byrd’s Boogie Machine | Hickory Tree 10:00pm at Capone’s
SATURDAY Aug 3rd
Parallel Unknown | American Dropouts | Mike Nichols 10:00pm at Capone’s
SUNDAY Aug 4th
Rheva & Keegan’s
Irish Fiddle Tunes 5:30pm at Mulligan’s Gaming Pub
TUESDAY Aug 6th
Old Time Jam 5:00pm at Yee-Haw Brewing Company
Brim & Marci Leal 6:30pm at Rocks Wood Fired Pizza
Kingsport
THURSDAY Aug 1st
Cari Coates Band 7:00pm at Lakeview Marina
FRIDAY Aug 2nd
Area 52 7:00pm at Lakeview Marina
Broke N’ Busted 9:00pm at CJ’s Sports Bar
SATURDAY Aug 3rd
Ali Randolph Band 7:00pm at Lakeview Marina
Donnie and the Dry Heavers 7:00pm at Model City Tap House
Lawless Band 9:00pm at CJ’s Sports Bar
SUNDAY Aug 4th
Jason Lloyd 7:00pm at Lakeview Marina
Elizabethton
FRIDAY Aug 2nd
Noah McKinney 6:00pm at Jiggy Rays
SATURDAY Aug 3rd
Tennessee Backroads 7:00pm at Elizabethton Covered Bridge Jams Mick Live 8:00pm at Jiggy Ray’s
Abingdon, VA
SATURDAY Aug 3rd
My New Favorites 4:00pm at Abingdon Vineyards
SUNDAY Aug 4th
Josh Bowles, Tom Zeske III and Special Guests 2:00pm at Abingdon Vineyards
From Oz to Shawshank: Transforming One Stage for Two Iconic Worlds
Within the realm of theatre, magic doesn’t just happen on stage - it happens behind it. Imagine, if you will, a single stage serving as the backdrop for two very different stories: the whimsical, technicolor land of Oz in The Wizard of Oz and the abrasive, gray walls of Shawshank Prison from The Shawshank Redemption.
It’s the scenic designers who transform this blank canvas into entirely separate worlds, each meticulously crafted to draw audiences into a unique plot and setting. Diving into the depths of their creative minds, these unsung artists build a vibrant Emerald City one night and an oppressive penitentiary the next, demonstrating the transformative power of theatrical design. Through impressive expertise, the stage transforms into a storytelling portal, transporting audiences from a fantastical journey down the Yellow Brick Road to a poignant story of hope and resilience within the confines of a prison cell. Each show is its own entity and comes with its own set of themes and challenges and needs. “I always feel like I’m most successful when I design what a show feels like instead of just what it looks like,” explained Barter’s Resident Scenic Designer Derek Smith. “By creating the physical world in which the characters and stories exist whether it be realistic, abstract, or somewhere in between, set design (along with lighting, sound, costume and props design) influence how the audience relates to or
perceives the story.”
The visual and thematic elements that were emphasized for each show add to the extensive vision imagined by those behind the scenes.
“For Oz specifically, the director had a vision for something less MGM and more Edward Gorey meets Tim Burton, so every design choice I made was through that lens. Kansas is more Edward Gorey meets American Gothic and OZ is more Tim Burton and fantastical,” Smith said. “It was also important to us that elements of Kansas be reflected throughout the design of Oz: from all the windmill flowers that surround Oz, to the crow weathervane in Kansas that alludes to the Crows in Oz, to some of the items on Professor Marvel’s cart that show up later in Oz.
“For Shawshank, my goal was to create a prison ward that seemed as real as possible, which was inspired by field trips to the very real architecture and textures of Brushy Mountain State Penitentiary in Petros, TN.”
So how do you manage quick set changes between scenes, especially given the contrasting nature of the two shows? According to Stage Manager for the Barter Players Brady Willis, when choreographing scene changes, it’s important to embody the desired tone set by each show’s director. This process begins in the rehearsal hall, crafting the transitions with the actual
crew members and actors who will be involved, and then later refining everything during tech rehearsals.
“For example, when moving the magical Yellow Brick Road in Oz, Director Stephen Schellhardt worked with the crew specifically on how to walk and move units with purpose, but also reflect the mystical tone of Munchkinland or the Dark Forest,” Willis said. “This meant avoiding rushed or harsh body language whenever seen by the audience. Similarly, when setting up for the stuffy Warden’s Office in Shawshank, Barter’s Producing Artistic Director Katy Brown requested that, once the office units are in place, the crew members (who are costumed as guards) stand at attention, and not leave until Warden Stammas, played by Nick Piper, sits in his chair.”
For both shows, the intended tone of each scene shift is informed by the music interlude or soundscape offered during each transition, whether that be Dishon Smith’s musical direction for Oz, or Brandon Reed’s sound design for Shawshank. Additionally, both shows include crew members in costume who are seen by the audience.
“Barter’s Costume Shop Manager Alice Sullivan’s design for Shawshank includes three crew members in Prison Guard uniforms, and one crew member costumed as a convict. This aided Katy Brown’s vision of executing clean scene transitions, while allowing the actual actors to prepare to act in the next scene,” Willis noted.
“Meanwhile, Kelly Jenkin’s costume design for Oz features four crew members dressed
as puppeteers, to mirror the ensemble actors who operate the puppets in the land of OZ.”
Despite the cohesion audiences may experience while watching the two distinct shows, there are key challenges creating two sets for one single stage.
“Designing sets that can live together backstage and allow room for the offstage traffic patterns of each show - maximizing the space and its capabilities. Designing a floor treatment that will work for both shows. Outside of those two considerations, I try to think of them as completely separate entities as much as possible,” Smith explained. “The only thing these two shows share is a floor treatment. That just needed to be something that could be muted enough for Kansas and Shawshank Prison, but take light well for the more colorful land of OZ.
“The hope is to always be as flexible as possible for discoveries made during the rehearsal process. But sometimes the set is built before rehearsals really start, so the goal is to hopefully iron out large potential issues beforehand while allowing space for potential adjustments.”
For more information on The Wizard of Oz and The Shawshank Redemption, and to see their respective sets in action, please visit www.bartertheatre.com
Bucs Go to the Olympics
Gille, Meronk to represent home countries of Belgium, Poland in Paris Olympics
Two East Tennessee State University alumni will compete in the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, which begin Friday. Representing their home countries are golfer Adrian Meronk of Poland and tennis player Sander Gille of Belgium.
Meronk, a professional golfer who has two wins on the PGA Tour, is fresh off the British Open and made his third U.S. Open appearance earlier this summer. He played golf for ETSU and graduated in 2016 with a bachelor’s degree in business and finance.
Gille and doubles partner Joran Vliegan recently competed at Wimbledon, where they won their opening round.
Gille, who started playing tennis at age 6, played for
ETSU and graduated in 2012 with a business degree. During their time at ETSU, both Meronk and Gille were in the athlete monitoring program of the university’s Center of Excellence for Sport Science and Coach Education (CESSCE). The CESSCE conducts cutting-edge research focused on the development of strength, power and endurance, as well as fatigue management, injury prevention and rehabilitation. It serves sports teams at ETSU and beyond, and increases the professional preparation of coaches.
Meg Stone, director of the CESSCE, knows well what Gille, Meronk and other athletes from around the world are experiencing in the days leading up to the Olympic games. Stone is a two-time Olympian who placed in the top 10 each time. She has held the women’s discus throw record for Great Britain since 1981 and the shotput record for Scotland since 1983. The seven-time collegiate champion and holder of three Scottish titles earned gold in the 1982 Commonwealth Games.
Stone said the thoughts and feelings experienced by Olympians at this point are varied. “Some will be thrilled and pleased just to be there and be part of such an event,” she said. “Others will feel the pressure of being part of this event, and others still will have the determination and confidence to know they have a chance at a medal. And yet others will have the supreme confidence of knowing they are the best, and only their archrival stands between them and the gold, such as U.S. shotput rivals Ryan Crouser and Joe Kovacs.”
Athletes can do little in the way of training at this point, Stone said, but are focusing on rest, recovery and fatigue management to compete at their optimum level.
“It is a long and dedicated process to rise to the level of being an Olympian,” Stone said. “It does not come easy. Commitment, dedication and an
enthusiastic work ethic are required. It takes years of understanding the technical or tactical aspects of your sport to compete in the Olympic Games and treat it like any other competition in order to be successful despite the atmosphere of such an event. But once you have the title ‘Olympian,’ you have it for life.”
The CESSCE has trained multiple other Olympians through the years. Among them are medalists Manteo Mitchell (2012 – silver, 4 x 400 relay), Steve Holcomb (2010 – gold, and 2014 – two silvers, bobsled), Steve Langton (2014 – two silvers, bobsled) and Chris Mazdzer (2018 – silver, luge). Others are Abbey D’Agostino (Cooper), track and field; Casey Eichfeld, Picky Powell and Michal Smolen, slalom canoe; Hakeem Sabour, Johnny Quinn and Dallas Robinson, bobsled; and John Daly, skeleton.
Tennis Player Sander Gille of Belgium.
Golfer Adrian Meronk of Poland
TRI-CITIES 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 BINGO DJ NIGHT
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
TUESDAY
Singo at Riverside Taphouse at South Fork Bluff City, TN 6:30pm
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
THURSDAY
Bingo at Mellow Mushroom Bristol VA 6pm
Singo at Aubrey’s Bristol 7:00 PM
THURSDAY
DJ B-Digital at O’Mainnin’s Pub and GrilleBristol, TN 10pm
FRIDAY
Handsome Hodge Entertainment at O’Mainnin’s Pub - Bristol, TN 10pm
SATURDAY
Handsome Hodge Entertainment at O’Mainnin’s Pub - Bristol, TN 10pm
SUNDAY
DJ B-Digital at O’Mainnin’s Pub and GrilleBristol, TN 10pm
SODOKU CROSSWORD
ACROSS
DROP QUOTE
1. Lobster-eaters' accessories
5. Football great Favre
10. Australia's lang.
14. Opera highlight
15. Uncle of storytelling
16. More than a little
17. First streaker?
19. Words in the middle of a noted palindrome
20. Handel inspiration
21. Traveled by plane
22. Poem used in Beethoven's "Choral Symphony"
26. Smallest amount
30. Suit specialists
34. Commencement
35. Hockey defenseman Paul
36. Legislative vote
Arthur Hays Sulzberger
37. "You got it"
39. Win over
42. Wallach or Whitney
43. Grazing grounds
47. Came into being
48. Purse taker
51. Al ___ (firm)
52. Infamous Dutch spy
54. Tolerated
57. Claim
62. "____ Misbehavin'"
63. Plain and simple
66. Miss, in Marseilles: Abbr.
67. Make butter the oldfashioned way
68. Off-roaders, familiarly
69. Interstellar dist.
70. Dirty and unkempt
71. 10th-grader, for short
Answers to last week’s puzzles can be found on page 09.
Down
1. Medicinal ointment
2. Hymn word
3. Presidential runs
4. Verbalizes
5. Expansive
6. Lucille Ball, e.g.
7. British recording co.
8. 8 options, on ATMs
9. Dept. of Homeland Security org.
10. Crabtree partner
11. Fiddler while Rome burned
12. Sprouted
13. "____ Eyes"
(song by The Eagles)
18. Influential pre-Renaissance
Florentine artist
21. Pro
23. Communication system for the deaf
24. Not Rx
25. Comedian's bit
26. Asocial sort
27. ___ Gay (WWII bomber)
28. Tomato gelatin
29. Pastor's speech (abbr.)
31. Keep an ___ (watch closely)
32. Bakers get a rise out of it
33. Eastern wrap
38. Dab with absorbent paper
40. Bottommost points
41. Dr. of rap music
44. Pitcher's stat
45. Former ember
46. Where ships come in
49. Actor, at times
50. Dined on
53. Like undercooked eggs
54. One of two O.T. books
55. Pinball-machine word
56. Sole
58. "Split" soup ingredients
59. Fully aware of
60. Request for a response, briefly
61. Keyboardist John
63. ATM manufacturer
64. "___ wise guy, eh!"
65. Fruitcake
OF THE WEEK PETS
Admiral Adorable is a playful explorer who loves to chase toys and snuggle up for naps. She‘s an 8 month old beautiful Tabby that brings joy and warmth to every moment,
Admiral PEPPER Adorable
sweet, affectionate and ready for her forever home! Admiral Adorable is microchipped, up to date on all vaccines and spayed, ensuring she’s healthy and ready for adoption.
There are 5 Backpacks hidden in this issue of The
Can you find them
Meet Pepper, the lovable mixed breed with beautiful speckles and a tail with a white tip, is seeking a forever home.
She is Sweet as syrup! Pepper is a tail wagging bundle of love that weighs 59 lbs, plays well with other dogs,
spayed, vaccinated, microchipped, heart worm tested negative and ready to bring joy to your days. She will also sit for treats and is very trainable. If you’re up for a lot of love, adopt Pepper and let the adventures begin!!! Bday 12/3/22.
If you are interested in adopting :
Last Week's Puzzle Answers
Sudoku
Crossword
Cryptogram:
"The more man meditates upon good thoughts, the better will be his world and the world at large."
Dropquote:
"Describing the Internet as the Network of Networks is like calling the Space Shuttle a thing that flies."
THINGS TO DO THINGS TO DO
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 AUG 1ST
Tri-Cities Turtles Run Club 12:45pm at Yee-Haw Brewing Co.
FRIDAY AUG 2ND
Johnson City Love & Hiking Date For Couples (Self-Guided) 7:00am at Willow Springs Park
SATURDAY AUG 3RD
Johnson City Love & Hiking Date For Couples (Self-Guided) 7:00am at Willow Springs Park
Johnson City Farmers Market 8:00am at the Pavilion in Downtown Johnson City
Improv Open Mic 8:00pm at Wallace Theatre
BRISTOL
WEDNESDAY JULY 31ST
Bristol Bloom Collective | All Local Flower Market 9:00am at West State Studio
THURSDAY AUG 1ST
IBN Biz Lunch 11:30am at Michael Waltrip Brewing Co.
Weekly Trunk Show 5:00pm at LUMAC Rooftop Bar
Almost Macbeth: A Farce in Two Acts 7:00pm at Blue Ridge Comedy Club
FRIDAY AUG 2ND
Museum Story Time - "Miss Dorothy and Her Bookmobile" 10:30am at Birthplace of Country Music Museum
Almost Macbeth:
A Farce in Two Acts 7:00pm at Blue Ridge Comedy Club
SATURDAY AUG 3RD
Board Game Night 5:00pm at Bristol Public Library
Almost Macbeth: A Farce in Two Acts 7:00pm at Blue Ridge Comedy Club
SUNDAY AUG 4TH
Almost Macbeth: A Farce in Two Acts 7:00pm at Blue Ridge Comedy Club
KINGSPORT
SATURDAY AUG 3RD
Farmer's Market 7:00am at Kingsport Farmers Market
Nature: Wolf Howling 10:00am at Bays Mountain Park & Planetarium
Brunch 11:30am at Gypsy Circus Cider Company
SUNDAY AUG 4TH
Gems & Minerals Show 12:00pm at Bays Mtn Park
JONESBOROUGH
TUESDAYS
Jonesborough Storytelling Guild “Stories n’More” Show 7:00pm at The Intl. Storytelling Center
SATURDAY AUG 3RD
Jonesborough Farmers Market 8:00am at Downtown Jonesborough
Historic Jonesborough Town Tour 1:00pm at Chester Inn State Historic Site
ABINGDON, VA
WEDNESDAY JULY 31ST
Game Night 5:00pm at Abingdon Commons
Bingo 5:00pm at Abingdon Community Center
FRIDAY AUG 2ND
Movies for Adults 2:00pm at Washington County Public Library
SATURDAY AUG 3RD
DreamLilly Hippie Festival 10:00am at Washington County Fairgrounds
SUNDAY AUG 4TH
Bingo 5:00pm at Abingdon Community Center
BLUFF CITY
SATURDAY AUG 3RD
Bluff City Farmers Market 9:00pm at Bluff City Ball Field
The ETSU State of Aging Conference
East Tennessee State University’s Office of Professional Development is offering The State of Aging in East Tennessee Conference in August 2024.
This conference is founded by the Office of Professional Development in collaboration with the Tennessee Commission on Aging and Disability, Alzheimer’s Tennessee, Northeast Tennessee-Southwest Virginia, and other regional agencies whose focus is on the aging experiences of East Tennesseans.
“Through recognizing partnerships and igniting conversations, this conference
is beginning a pathway towards a more transparent, efficient, informed, and enriched journey for our seniors and their caregivers,” says Program Manager’s Ruth Taylor Read. “It is important in every community that we become aware of allies, processes and resources that define today’s aging experience.”
Beginning conversations will include essential topics in ageing. We will discuss the latest Alzheimer’s research and proven strategies to enrich the journey for our regional seniors. Other topics include: dementia, active aging, creative aging, elder law and more.
TUES. July 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd & 30th
BRIM & MARCI LEAL
WED. July 3rd, 10th, 17th, 24th & 31st
HB BEVERLY
THUR. July 4th 11th, 18th & 25th
JUSTIN MYCHALS
WOOD FIRED PIZZA. BURGERS. DRINKS. & FUN.
Bike Nights
sponsored by biker wear
Local Events:
1.. Twilight Alive July 19th Kingsport, TN
2. Hillbilly & Vet Pre-Party July 20th
7pm Wild Wings Café
3. Hillbilly & Vet Car & Bike July 20th
3pm – 7pm Wild Wings Café
4. 3rd Annual Tri-Cities Takeover August 25th
Bike Nights:
Wednesday: 19E Pit Stop
Wednesday: Jonesborough VFW
Thursday: Darrell Waltrip
Thursday: Old Town Tavern
Friday: Tulips
August 3rd Peacemakers Greenville, TN
Bike Night and Bike Show
Rides:
1. Hillbilly Shine Ride to Maggie Valley NC Meet 8am KSU
8:30am Jonesboro VFW
2. Bear Barnes Memorial Ride August 17th
Bike Rallies:
1. 15th Annual Hillbilly Show & Shine July 26th – 27th
2. 85th Annual Sturgis Bike Rally August 2nd – 11th
Rides & Rallies sponsored by biker wear
Beanz Biker Corner Beanz Biker Corner
Hello again everyone, it’s a HOT summer so lets go camping in the mountains, by the river, or at the lake. I love to go camping. I tent camp. Today, it seems like most people enjoy camping. Heck, I know I sure do! And who’s to blame them – camping is an amazing outdoor activity. But everybody has their own way of camping. Some like tents, or RV or a pull behind. No matter how you camp, you are making memories with family and friends. It’s a great way to get back to nature and get away from the noise of the city and the everyday rush. Stress just seems to melt away.
Recreational camping has a long history, with origins traced back to ancient times when early humans built temporary structures in the wilderness for shelter and survival during hunting and gathering expeditions. However, modern recreational camping as we know it today was popularized in the late Victorian era Thomas Hiram Holding, who wrote the first edition of "The Camper’s Handbook" in 1908, is considered the founder of modern recreational camping. For the overwhelming majority of human
By Anne Hartley
history, people have “camped” as a way of life. We humans lived a nomadic existence out of necessity, moving with the seasons, following food sources and avoiding inclement weather. A roving lifestyle in nature was all we knew for millennia. That, however, is far removed from the type of camping we’re talking about today. We’re interested in modern camping; the campground, sleeping bag and tent, kind of camping.
Here are some camping safety tips:
1. Choose the right shelter and site for your camping trip. 2. Stay upto-date with the weather and be prepared for any changes. 3. Pack and store food safely to avoid spoilage and contamination. 4. Practice campfire safety and never leave a fire unattended. 5. Use insect protection and avoid areas with high infestation. 6. Be aware of allergies and bring any necessary medication. 7. Protect your skin from the sun with sunscreen, hats, and clothing. 8. Stay hydrated and drink plenty of water. 9. Learn about local wildlife and keep a safe distance from them. 10. Be careful near water and follow the rules for swimming and boating. 11. Avoid poisonous plants and learn how to identify them.
Back when I was a kid, camping trips consisted of a leaky tent pitched on a rocky piece of earth and some marshmallows burnt to a crisp over the campfire. Don’t get me wrong, I loved camping then and I still love it now, but there’s no denying that camping has evolved in ways that were unimaginable a few decades ago. Today, modern campgrounds boast everything from waterparks to coffee carts, and they appeal to a larger number of people than ever before. With the amenities offered at some American campgrounds these days, there’s nothing rough about roughing it.
Useless Facts:
1. The total number of campers each year was constantly growing, but the boom was quite noticeable after the pandemic. In 2021, there were 93.8 million active camping households in the United States alone, from which 9.1 million households were camping for the first time in their life.
2. The majority of campers live in urban areas, so going camping for them is also escaping the busy city life. In a survey held in 2021, more than half of all campers (56%) were coming from urban living areas.
3. Camping is for everyone, regardless of their income. In fact, about 41% of first-time campers in 2020 came from higher-income households.
4. The average number of nights campers spend on a campground is between 7 and 9 nights.
5. You don’t need to travel long distances to enjoy nature. In 2021, 56% of campers traveled less than 100 miles for their trip. In fact, one third of them stay within just 50 miles of their homes.
Full Moons of 2024
1. Buck Moon on Sunday, July 21 - 6:19 am
2. Sturgeon Moon on Monday, August 19 - 2:28 pm
3. Harvest Moon on Wednesday September 18 - 10:36 pm
4. Hunters Moon on Thursday October 17 -7:27 am
5. Beaver Moon on Friday November 15 - 4:29 pm
6. Cold Moon on Sunday December 15 - 4:02 am
Johnson City Public Art to Hold Sixth Annual 5 x 5 Art Exhibit & Fundraiser
Johnson City Public Art to hold sixth annual 5 x 5 Art Exhibit & Fundraiser
The Johnson City Public Art Committee is pleased to announce its sixth annual 5 x 5 Art Exhibit and Fundraiser on Aug. 2 at The Pavilion at Founders Park, 105 W. Main St., in downtown Johnson City from 5:55-9 p.m. This year’s event will feature
over 200 artworks that have been generously donated by over 80 area artists. Both two-dimensional and three-dimensional artworks will be available for purchase this year, measuring either 5 inches by 5 inches or 5 inches by 5 inches by 5 inches, respectively. Each piece will be sold for $25.
Proceeds from the fundraiser will benefit Johnson City Public Art. The exhibition is free and open to the public. Light refreshments will be provided, and attendees will enjoy live music as they peruse the artworks on display.
As in previous years, all artworks
will be sold on a first-come, firstserved basis. Therefore, attendees are encouraged to arrive promptly.
To learn more about the 5 x 5 Art Exhibit & Fundraiser or the Johnson City Public Art Committee, visit: jcpublicart.com/
Participating artists include:
Mirissa Allen
Nancy Fischman
Kathie Love
Michael Smith
Allyn Amore
Jay Flack
Ashley Madden
Janice Snapp
Ritina Ansurkar
Ron Fondaw
Alison Maddux
Web Stevens
Sophia Atchley
Michael Fowler
Deborah Marshall
William Strickland
Arlinda C. Bailey
Lyn Govette
Nancy Meador
Nancy Robards
Thompson
Faith Belt
Debbie Griffin
Nicole Michelle
Dianna Lynne Tucker
Adria Bennett
James Griffin
Sandra Moody
Brooke Velsor
Russell Bennett
Trisha Hammer
Brandon Moorman
Christy Ward
Jaime Black
Michael Hammonds
Katie Murphy
Angela White
Elyse Bruce
Ben Hansen
Greg Nobles
Kalliope Yvonne
Danielle Byington
Haley Hansen
Sarah Nobles
Taylor Campbell
Whitney Hodges
Juniper Peacher
Jennie Copp
Tracy Holmes
Michael Peavler
Elena Corradino
Bird Honeycutt
Sage Perrott
Rack Cross
Molly Ison
Rebecca Pippin
Sharon Curtis
Sydney Jackson
Sheri Rhudy
Jennifer Dafcik
Cari Jarman
Lynnea Salinas
Katie Davidson
Jamie Johnson
Alice Salyer
Patricia Davis
Ted Johnson
Blake San
Angela Dingwell
Susan Lachmann
Edith Seier
Karen Dorr
Monet LaClair
Katie Sheffield
Nancy Jane Earnest
Sylvia Lane
Angie Shepherd
Mary East
Jane Lawrence
Lynn Shepherd
Kristen Evans
Rachel Lawson
Cindy Smith
Susan Everitt
Kathy Levi
Krista Smith
What Do Your Brand Colors Imply About You?
Social Sentiments
By Wendy Hayden socialsentiments
Your brand colors tell your customers what you can offer them. Will you be packing their order in eco friendly packaging? Offering them sales? Or maybe just wanting to put them at ease? The color you choose subtly gives a hint about your intentions.
Blue branding creates trust and a feeling of relaxation. It puts your customers into a calm state where they feel comfortable with their purchasing decisions. If the buyer does not regret their purchase, the sale is retained instead of returned.
Excite your audience by creating red branding. Sales branding in red will attract budget conscious buyers to your store who will likely be able to purchase more due to lower pricing.
Optimism in your brand shows through yellow branding. Yellow creates a vision for a successful future with your brand. Returning customers create a steady profit flow. Yellow branding can subtly assist customers in seeing their future through shopping with you.
A friendly environment can be created through orange branding. Friendly service is an important factor in creating consistent sales. Customers will want to return to your store knowing they will receive friendly service, which is uncommon in our fast paced world.
A peaceful and eco friendly vibe can be created through green imagery. A focus has been placed on environmentally friendly products and services over the past few years and green branding shows that you are in
tune with the path the rest of the world is taking.
Any color outside of this list that speaks to your brand should be used in conjunction with the color of the mood you are attempting to create. The ultimate goal is to create a subtle connection that resonates with your customers and your brand and creates return business.
With the first day of school just around the corner, it’s important for students to arrive with confidence in footwear that meets their style and function needs.
To help make school shopping a bit easier, Rack Room Shoes is offering families advice about this back-toschool season’s top shoe trends:
1. Elevated: From color-blocked to classic-inspired sneakers, your favorite brands like Nike, Converse, Vans and Crocs are offering trends that will complement a variety of outfits, and become wardrobe staples.
2. Retro: Take a step back in time with retro and Y2K looks from Adidas, Puma and New Balance. These brands offer an assortment of designs and take it back old school.
3. Comfy: Staying indoors or lounging in the dorm? Crocs, HEYDUDE and Birkenstock offer laidback, comfortable choices ranging from fuzzy-lined styles to lightweight and flexible cushion slides.
4. Bold: Want your first impression to be memorable? Glitter, embellished
Your Back to School Style Starts Here
toe caps and a wide selection of bright colors are your best friends. And this season’s collaborations with Sanrio, Disney and My Little Pony bring favorite characters to life. You’ll be sure to find your pair of statement makers.
5. Sporty Accessories: Be in style and learn with style. For this school year, choose a backpack from a variety of colors, patterns, materials and brands.
Rack Room Shoes has backpacks with the needed space for every textbook, laptop or water bottle; featuring padded shoulder straps or a back panel for comfortable carrying.
For more back-to-school style inspiration, visit a Rack Room Shoes in your area or online at rackroomshoes.com.
Whether it’s to make a bold first impression, raise the bar, or let old school meet new school, the right pair of shoes can give kids the confidence they need to step into a brand new school year.
(StatePoint)
Saturday, July 27 - 7:30
Saturday, August 17 - 7:30 pm Saturday, August 24 - 7:30 pm
Adapted for stage by David Birney
Directed by Chris McVey
Home Cooked Wine Pairings
Growing up in the south, particularly from our “neck of the woods,” you learn early on the importance of good eatin’. I’m sure I’m not alone in reminiscing about all those meals at Grandmas, where the whole family squeezed in elbowto-elbow to indulge in her home cooking. In fact, with most of my childhood memories having turned to fuzzy clips of vague emotions, these times of celebration and post-church family fellowship are some of the only clear recollections I have left. As I’ve gotten older and broadened my culinary horizons, I still have to admit that as much as I love exploring other cuisines, my heart will always belong to the simple, greasy, down-home dishes of Appalachia. But how will that ever co-exist with my newfound love of French wine? Beautifully, it turns out!
When I decided to make my piece this week about pairing vino with classic southern dishes, I had no intention of making them France specific. But as I reviewed my brainstorming chicken scratch, I was surprised to see that every single glass was from the land of the Louvre, and try as I might, I could not dream up a better pairing. So as crazy as it sounds, it seems the hills of the French countryside might in fact have something in common with the sticks and hollers of Appalachia.
When I was thinking up my favorite country dishes, naturally I started with my absolute favorite breakfast staple- gravy and biscuits. My Granny used to bake drop biscuits called “cat heads” because they were, you guessed it, as big as a cat’s head. They weren’t the fluffy, golden and perfectly symmetrical buttermilk versions most of the rest of the world is used to, but there was pure
deliciousness in every lumpy bite; particularly when smothered with her famous sausage gravy. Fried and crumbled in her biggest skillet, the woman never measured anything, just using pure instinct and years of experience to add the perfect amounts of whole milk, flour and seasonings to the ample pool of grease. As I pondered what wine could possibly hold up to this hearty concoction that seems to be all over the board and typically consumed early in the day, only 1 answer came to mind- classic Champagne. I’m a firm believer that most problems can be solved with bubbles, and if you’re ever in a predicament where you need a wine that will play off a little bit of everything, it’s a great go-to. Champagne in particular has a more yeasty flavor than other sparkling wines, making it a great match for biscuits and gravy. While it offers a creamy nuttiness, it’s still light enough to not be extra weight on an already heavy meal. Remember, all sparkling wine is commonly referred to as Champagne incorrectly, but TRUE Champagne must come from the Champagne region of France. Try to get one that has been aged for a couple years, but if you’re ballin on a budget, there are some terrific NonVintage (NV) options out there that won’t break the bank.
For the next course, there’s no way I could cultivate a list of home cooked cuisine without mentioning soup beans and corn bread. There’s hardly another scent in this world that can make me go as wild as a big pot of simmering pintos on a stovetop with a cast iron skillet full of cornbread in the oven below. You can eat them however you want, but my preferred method is to ladle a giant spoonful of beans over a hunk of crumbled cornbread and top it with a couple dashes of Texas Pete. On a cold winter day, nothing will warm your bones better, I assure you. But what sort of wine would be the perfect
complement to such a simple but filling concoction? My mind immediately traveled to Burgundy. French pinot has an earthiness that plays well with the beans, while still having just enough structure to stand up to the added texture of being cooked in pig fat. Aim for a nice Cote de Nuit Village wine for a full-bodied Burgundy experience without the hefty price tag of the well-known Grand Cru vineyards.
For suppertime in the south, I had 3 staples immediately come to mind and they all deserved an honorable mention and pairing suggestion. I felt it was only fair to give you a seafood, a white meat and a red meat option, depending on your mood. For the fish dish, there was no way I could avoid discussing shrimp and grits. This savory blending of seafood and breakfast carbs for dinner is the meal that changed my mind about crustaceans as a teenager, and the addition of spicy andouille sausage is the perfect way to round out this deliciousness. The only way it could be any better is with a big glass of Sancerre. While most would think that Sauvignon Blanc would be far too citrusy or delicate for a meal this robust, this French version of the grape is actually quite versatile and is a fabulous complement to more savory flavors. It still holds the characteristic green, white and yellow fruit profiles, but has a salinity that creates perfect balance to full flavors.
If you’re in the mood for something with feathers, how about pairing a glass of French chardonnay with a big bowl of chicken and dumplings?
A white Burgundy is a great option for this one-pot meal. Opt for a Cote de Beaune over Chablis, as these tend to be oaked, giving them more of the creaminess to play off the texture of the dumplings. I feel that Chablis being unoaked would be too light and fruity for a dish this savory.
Finally if you’re craving something carnivorous, let’s go read all the
by Kathie Scalf
way with a pan full of meat loaf and a bottle of Bordeaux. This classic red blend would not only go great with a thick slice of loaf straight out of the oven, but would also be the perfect way to wash down a leftover meatloaf sandwich on white bread. Bordeaux, particularly styles from the Left Bank which contain more cabernet sauvignon, have delicious, grippy tannins that help balance out the fattiness of the red meat. You could also add a splash of this vino to jazz up your standard ketchup based glaze!
If there is 1 thing I could hammer home to everyone I know, it would be “don’t be afraid of wine!” All these things sounds so fancy and complicated when in reality, most wines can be quite versatile. Don’t be scared to match your favorite comfort foods with grapes from far-away lands that are a little hard to pronounce. They always say opposites attract, and when it comes to food and wine, that couldn’t be more true!
XO - Kathie
2024 Famous Autumn Steam Train Excursion through Smoky Mountains
On Saturday, September 14th, 2024 the Watauga Valley Railroad Historical Society and Museum will sponsor a steam train excursion on the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad. This is a wonderful opportunity to relax and enjoy the beauty of Western North Carolina while riding the rails behind a steam engine in vintage passenger railroad cars.
The #1702 locomotive dates to 1943. The engine’s construction was an official commissioned WWII steam engine plan. It is of the world’s largest engine class, and is one of two remaining in the United States.
The one-day excursion will cover most of the operating trackage of the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad. The track follows the route of the former Southern Railway’s Murphy Branch Line, established in 1891, with its five percent grade and many bridges. Our scenic steam excursion takes us from the historic depot
in Bryson City, NC, through the beautiful countryside of Western North Carolina, into the breath-taking Nantahala Gorge surrounded by the majestic Smokies, and back to Bryson City. Much of the route hugs the banks of the Little Tennessee and Nantahala Rivers. It crosses Fontana Lake on a trestle spanning 780 feet 100 feet above the lake.
Video clip online at: www.wataugavalleynrhs.org.
Passengers ride in comfort in First Class, Crown Class, Tourist Coach, or Open-Air cars. All classes offer seating in classic antique restored passenger cars. There are restrooms throughout the train.
First Class cars are climatecontrolled and feature large windows and lounge-car seating.
Crown Class cars offer large windows and climate control for passenger comfort.
Tourist Coach Class cars have ceiling fans and windows that open and close for fresh-air viewing.
Open-Air Coach cars are great for picture-taking and “experiencing” the ride and scenery.
The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad has become a favorite of film producers over the years. The train wreck scene in the 1993 movie, The Fugitive, starring Harrison Ford and Tommy Lee Jones, was filmed along the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad. The railroad was used in the filming of the 1996 comedy, My Fellow Americans, starring Jack Lemmon and James Gardner, when they stumble onto a charter train full of UNC-Chapel Hill fans headed for the NCAA Final Four. Train scenes in the 1998 movie, Forces of Nature, starring Ben Affleck and Sandra Bullock, were also filmed on the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad.
TRANSPORTATION AND PARKING
Bryson City is a laid-back, nontouristy town of 1,300 with more stop signs than stoplights. It is an easily stroll-able town with local bookstores, arts and crafts galleries with working artisans, a bike shop, two fly fishing shops, a fly-fishing museum, an historical museum, an aquarium, a scenic train, two breweries, and a surprising variety of restaurants. Bryson City is only 10 miles from the famous Cherokee Indian Reservation. [Information re lodging in the Bryson City area is available on-line.]
Passengers have two options for arrival at the Bryson City Train Depot: they may either ride a chartered tour bus out of Johnson City, TN, or drive
directly to Bryson City, NC, if that is more convenient. Please select point of departure on the order form when purchasing tickets. NOTE: Free parking is provided in Johnson City and Bryson City.
TICKETS
First Class ticket price is $185/ adult [ADULTS 21 AND OVER Y]
Crown Class ticket price is $126/ adult and $98/child [2 -12]
Tourist Coach Class ticket price is $110/adult and $88/child [2-12]
Open-Air Coach Class ticket price is $112/adult $877/child [2-12]
All classes of excursion tickets include free admission to the Smoky Mountain Lionel Train Museum near the Bryson City depot. The museum boasts a collection of 7,000 Lionel engines, cars and accessories, and an impressive operating layout and children’s activity center.
Tickets and pre-purchased meals must be ordered online by credit card at:
www.wataugavalleynrhs.org/. Click on the EXCURSIONS link
There’s nothing like riding behind steam! Steam excursions sell out quickly. Order soon so you don’t miss out!
The excursion runs rain or shine. Every effort will be made to maintain an on-time schedule. The Watauga Valley Railroad Historical Society & Museum assumes no liability due to passengers not arriving on time at the Bryson City Depot.
Questions about the trip? Go to www.wataugavalleynrhs. org, or email: wataugavalley@gmail.com
After his Academy Award nominated performance as Ken (a name I’m partial to) in “Barbie,” Ryan Gosling is back on the big screen in “The Fall Guy.” The film is loosely based on the popular 1980’s television series of the same name. Gosling stars as Colt Severs, a talented Hollywood stuntman who works as a stunt double for action film star Tom Ryder (Aaron TaylorJohnson). While filming a stunt in Ryder’s latest film, Severs is severely injured and leaves his career and abandons his girlfriend Jody Moreno (Emily Blunt), who is a camerawoman. Flash forward eighteen months later and Severs is working for a small Mexican restaurant as a valet in order to make a living. Severs is eventually contacted by Ryder’s film producer Gail Meyer (Hannah Waddingham), who reveals his ex-girlfriend is directing her first film, the science fiction epic “Metalstorm” starring Ryder, and she wants him to join them for filming in Sydney. Severs is intrigued, and agrees to the job, but after arriving
By Ken Silvers theloaferonlineprint
The Fall Guy
in Sydney discovers his former love never wanted him there. Moreno is still angry about being cast aside by her former love after his accident. The two eventually agreed to work together again, but not after Moreno makes Severs do a dangerous stunt many times as an act of vengeance against her former love. Of course, we all know they will reunite, but not before some clever bantering and teasing takes place. While the former lovers are trying to reunite, Severs is sent to find Ryder who doesn’t show up on set one day, and Meyer reveals to Severs that their star has gotten in trouble with drug dealers and has disappeared. Severs manages to track Ryder down after being attacked by Ryder’s actress girlfriend Iggy (Teresa Palmer) at Ryder’s apartment. Eventually Severs is led to a nightclub where he meets Ryder’s drug dealer and matters really become dangerous. Severs is drugged and later kidnapped, and it’s revealed Ryder has been involved in a crime that could sink his career. After several fights, boat and car chases, Ryder is told to come back to the set for some additional filming not realizing Severs and Moreno have hatched a plot to bring down the star, despite interference from producer Meyer. Let’s just say Ryder is very involved in a stunt and is shocked to be in the presence of the presumed deceased Severs. The filming is eventually completed, the film is a hit after a surprise casting change and Severs and Moreno are happily together once more. Surprisingly the
film has a slow start, but once the action kicks in, the film is high octane fun. Gosling with his understated wit, is great as the heroic stuntman, and his chemistry with co-star Blunt is great, and she holds her own against the star power of Gosling. This film is just pure fluffy fun disguised as a crime thriller, and when laughs are combined with action, they
form the right ingredients for a warm season film at the theater. If you want a film involving little concentration, which I consider a summer “cotton candy” film, then “The Fall Guy” is your ticket. You will also enjoy the surprise cameos by a couple of actors. (Rated PG-13)
Bristol
CONCERT SCHEDULE CONCERT SCHEDULE
GREENVILLE
BRISTOL TN/VA GREENEVILLE TN
PARAMOUNT
Jun 1 Mac McAnally (sold out)
Jun 20 Steve Earle
Jul 18 The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus
Aug 2 Kenny Wayne Shepherd Band
Aug 17 Ozark Mountain Daredevils
Sep 28 Dusty Slay (two shows)
Oct 4 Destination Soultown featuring the Sensational Soul Cruisers
Sep 13-15 Ashley McBryde, The Wallflowers, The Red Clay Strays, Sam Bush, Molly Tuttle & Golden Highway, The Steeldrivers, 49 Winchester and more.
JOHNSON CITY
JOHNSON CITY TN
MARTIN CENTER FOR THE ARTS
Aug 17 The Concert: A Tribute to ABBA
Spp 28 Black Jacket Symphony will perform will perform Elton John’s Madman Across The Water
Oct 7 Ben Folds
FREEDOM HALL
Aug 16 Jamey Johnson
Oct 20 Whiskey Myers
Kingsport
RED WHITE AND BOOM
Jul 6 The Marshall Tucker Band and The Cleverlys
FUN FEST AT J. FRED JOHNSON STADIUM
Jul 25 Crowder
Jul 26 Tyler Hubbard, Emily Ann Roberts & Carson Peters
Jul 27 Goo Goo Dolls with Phillip Phillips
NISWONGER PERFORMING ARTS CENTER
Jul 19 Dugger Band
MARION VA
THE LINCOLN THEATRE
Jun 15 Mark Lowry & Friends with Endless Highway and The Sound
Jun 21 Zach Rushing with Cletus T. Judd
Jun 22 The Piano Men Tribute to Billy Joel & Elton John
Aug 24 Landslide: A Tribute to Fleetwood Mac
Oct 19 & 20 Gene Watson
Nov 8 Killer Beaz
Nov 16 Rhonda Vincent & The Rage
Knoxville
KNOXVILLE TN
BIJOU THEATRE
Jun 14 Kevin Smith
Jun 21 Lucinda Williams
Jul 13 Rob Schneider
Jul 14 Tab Benoit & Anders Osborne
Aug 9 Sister Hazel
Aug 16 Kimberly Perry & Tanner Adell
Oct 26 Henry Cho
Oct 27 Robin Trower
Nov 8 Gaelic Storm
TENNESSEE THEATRE
Jun 8 Brad Williams
Jul 9 Brit Floyd: P.U.L.S.E.
Jul 13 1964 The Tribute
Jul 18 Ben Folds
THOMPSON BOWLING ARENA
July 14 The Doobie Brothers with Robert Cray
Aug 24 Heart and Cheap Trick
Sept 12 Hootie and the Blowfish with Collective Soul and Edwin McCain
Oct 5 Aerosmith and The Black Crowes
Oct 25 Jelly Roll
Nov 19 Justin Timberlake
KNOXVILLE CIVIC AUDITORIUM:
Jun 12 Josh Gates
Jun 13 Matt Rife
Jun 29 David Spade
Oct 10 Air Supply
Oct 26 Dusty Slay
KNOXVILLE CIVIC COLISEUM:
Jul 25 Jordan Davis
Oct 3 Brantley Gilbert
GATLINBURG
GATLINBURG TN
THE MOUNTAIN MUSIC FESTIVAL AT GATLINBURG CONVENTION CENTER
Aug 23-25 Joan Jett, Tesla, Night Ranger, Foghat, Aldo Nova, Slaughter, Quiet Riot, Lynch Mob, Great White, Dangerous Toys, Vixen and many more.
Nashville
NASHVILLE TN
RYMAN AUDITORIUM
Jun 13 The Del McCoury Band
Jun 15 Hauser
Jun 21 & 22 Blackberry Smoke
Jun 30 The Alan Parsons Live Project
Jul 10 Dave Barnes
Jul 17 Asia
Jul 20 Scott Bradlee’s Postmodern Jukebox
Jul 24 Jon Anderson & The Band Geeks with special guests The Return o Emerson, Lake & Palmer
Jul 25 Ricky Scaggs & Kentucky Thunder
Jul 29 Donnie Osmond
Aug 9 America
Aug 16 Ozark Mountain Daredevils
Aug 18 Joe Bonamassa
Aug 22 The Turtles, The Cowsills, The Association and others
Aug 28 Steve Earle
Aug 29 Terri Clark
Aug 30 Passenger
Sep 4-6 The Red Clay Strays
Sep 23 The Beach Boys
BRIDGESTONE ARENA
Jun 14 Luis Miguel
Jun 23 Alanis Morissette, Joan Jett & Morgan Wade
Jul 19 Alabama
Jul 21 Sebastian Maniscalco
Jul 27 Hootie and the Blowfish with Collective Soul and Edwin McCain
Aug 6 Future & Metro Bloomin
Aug 9 & 10 Chris Stapleton
Aug 14 Five Finger Death Punch with Marilyn Manson and Slaughter To Prevail
Aug 20 Earth Wind & Fire with Chicago
Aug 27 Glass Animals
Aug 28 Sammy Hagar and Loverboy
BROOKLYN BOWL
June 16 Kings X
Aug 6 10CC
NASHVILLE MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM
Aug 9 Bush with Jerry Cantrell and Candlebox
Sep 28 Megadeth with Mudvayne and All That Remains
Oct 26 Judah & The Lion
ASCEND AMPHITHEATRE
Jun 6-8 2024 CMA Fest
Jun 22 Cypress Hill
Jun 29 Sarah McLachlan
Jul 12 Styx, Foreigner and John Waite
Jul 13 Lake Street Dive
Aug 2 Boys II Men
Aug 3 Thirty Seconds to Mars
Aug 6 Tate McRae
Aug 13 Creed with Tonic and Finger Eleven
Aug 20 Wallows
Aug 31 King Gizzard & the Lizard Wizard
GEODIS PARK IN NASHVILLE:
Aug 30 Green Day, Smashing Pumpkins, Rancid & the Linda Lindas
BROWN COUNTY MUSIC CENTER
Jun 2 John Anderson acoustic
Jun 16 Bachman Turner Overdrive
Jun 22 Mike Campbell & The Dirty Knobs
Jul 27 Kenny Wayne Shepherd Band
Aug 1 Night Ranger
Aug 2 Taylor Hicks
Aug 22 Cinderella’s Tom Keiger Band
Aug 24 & 25 Aaron Lewis Acoustic
Aug 30 Crowder
When The Criterion Collection announced they were adding Tom Cruise’s 1983 breakout movie “Risky Business” to their lineup, I was slightly surprised by it. All I knew of the movie was the famous sequence in which Cruise dances around to Bob Seger’s “Old Time Rock & Roll.” Going off that scene I had assumed the film was an affable, crowd-favorite comedy movie from the 1980s. Which it is, but it’s also so much more.
Written and directed by Paul Brickman, “Risky Business” at first sits squarely in the same field as many 1980s comedies that were directed at teenagers, with a focus on sex. But what makes this film stand out from the other teen comedies of the era is the film’s satirical bent commenting on Regan-era society and capitalism, a lot of which still holds up as relevant today.
Cruise plays Joel Goodson, a preppy kid growing up in affluent Chicago suburbia looking towards his future and attending college. Joel’s parents leave him alone
Batteries
Not Included
By Andy Ross
Risky Business
for a week as they go on vacation together. Joel is left with a series of rules to follow, the biggest one being not to drive his father’s Porsche, which is exactly what Joel does as soon as he gets a chance (something a small parallel with other Chicago teen classic “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off”).
But Joel’s friends encourage him to get more out of life by asking, essentially, “Why not?” Joel soon finds himself being friendly with call girl Lana, played by Rebecca De Mornay. After inadvertently wrecking the Porsche, Joel soon finds a need for money, and Lana offers him a suggestion that would also appeal to the young man who is in a “future enterprisers” program. “Risky Business” is a very good film and an impressive make for a first-time director, the way it balances satire and humor with darker themes is not easy to do.
Criterion brings “Risky Business” to 4K UHD blu-ray for the first time, along with a standard blu-ray release. The 4K, like all Criterion 4K releases, contains both a 4K disc with the movie, and their regular blu-ray where most of the bonus features are held. This restoration was sourced from the 35mm original camera negative and the 35mm interpositive. The work was supervised and approved by director Brickman and the film’s producer Jon Avnet.
The film is presented in Dolby Vision High Dynamic Range and It looks amazing. The strong, bold colors of the film’s opening titles grabbed me. The film in 4K HDR has a great layer of gran and a rich depth. It looks like a pristine 35mm projection, which is what I always hope for out of my 4K discs. The film’s audio is presented in a 5.1 DTS-HD track from original
sources. It sounds good, and seeing the film was originally released in Dolby Stereo I suspect this is simply taking that mix and transferring it to the 5.1 domain. Dolby Stereo was a surround sound process after all. Bonus features are nice, a mix of new features and one from previous releases. First off we have from 2008 an audio commentary with Brickman, Cruise, and Avnet. Then, a documentary looking at the making of the film, all appears to be from the first blu-ray release of the film by Warner Brothers. New features include interviews with producer Avenet, casting director
Nancy Lopper, and a conversation between the film’s editor, Richard Chew, and historian Bobbie O’Steen. Screen tests and the trailer round out the bonus features.
“Risky Business” was a surprise to me, and a film I enjoyed very much. Its new 4K UHD edition from The Criterion Collection is hands down, I’d bet, the best the film has ever looked on home video. With a nice array of bonus features and great cover art taken from the film’s iconic scene, this is one worth picking up for your collection. See you next week.
