The Loafer 84

Volume 03

Issue 84

Publisher

Lisa Durbin

Creative DIrector

Jon Bill Forrester

Managing Editor

Peggy Gale

DIstribution

Elizabeth Armstrong

Sales

Jessica Carlisle

Entertainment Coordinator

Andreax Jarre

Contributing Staff

Andy Ross

Kathie Scalf

Ken Silvers

Wendy Hayden

Ann Hartley

The Loafer

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

NOTE FROM THE PUBLISHER

Hello Friends!

Did everyone enjoy Mother’s Day? I hope you had a wonderful day with you Mom, grandma or the special lady in your life. Another one of my favorite things is in full bloom. Strawberries!!! I looooooove those red yummy bundles of mouthwatering joy! The Strawberry festival is in Erwin this weekend and looks to be bigger and better than ever.

Whatever you do this weekend I hope it is a great time!

Tattoos Are Our Passion at Sacred Ink Studios

With a lifetime of artistry in his repertoire, Troy Hicks opened Sacred Ink in 2001. As one of the oldest tattoo shops in the area, Sacred Ink is grateful for the clients that have remained loyal through generations.

The Sacred Ink crew values each of our clients whether it is art the size of a dime or an entire backpiece, every client is important.

We take pride in our professional environment as all our supplies and equipment are sterile and opened in front of our clients to ensure peace of mind. Our clients’ safety and wellbeing is our first priority regardless of the service being rendered. As a fully licensed tattoo and piercing salon, our artists and piercers are also individually licensed and certified in CPR and First Aid, as well as Bloodborne Pathogen Training which satisfies the necessary regulations of Virginia.

Sacred Ink has over 50 years of experience in the tattoo and piercing

world. Allen Wood, Jeremiah Thacker, Troy and Pink Hicks are here to bring your body art to life. We take tremendous pride in knowing that we strive to transform your idea from thought to skin without any attitude or negative vibe. Your tattoo or piercing experience will be free of arrogance, attitude and condescending communications. We aim to maintain a kind and familyoriented atmosphere which makes us an exception in the tattoo industry. We have a full service crew including 4 tattoo artists, piercer and a shop manager. All of our artists are versatile in their abilities and able to tattoo a multitude of styles. You can count on us to be honest with you about your design, size and placement. It is our goal for your tattoo to not only look good on the day you receive it but also to hold the color and design well 20 years later.

Sacred Ink believes strongly in giving back to the community. This year

we will celebrate our 6th year of our Christmas toy drive. With the help of our clients and friends, we have been able to provide Christmas gifts to hundreds of poverty stricken families in the area. This outreach continues to grow every year so if you want to be a part of this, come by and see us for details! Sacred Ink has also been a financial contributor to the Bridge of Hope Street Ministry for over 10 years. The Bridge of Hope is an outreach ministry that provides love, prayer, food and toiletry items to the homeless and indigent community in this area. Also, Pink Hicks offers a women’s support group on Monday evenings. This group is an opportunity for any woman to come and listen or share their experience, strength, and hope. Go check out the Fearless at Sacred Ink Bristol Va Facebook page if you would like more information on this group. We are blessed to be able to come to work and do what we love with

people we love! If you are looking for some ink or a new piercing, come and see us! Much Love! Your Sacred family.

Bristol TN/Va

WEDNESDAY May 17th

Mark Larkins 7:00pm at Cascade Draft House

THURSDAY May 18th

Holly Ann & Dirt Road Rising

6:00pm at Bristol Casino Bar

Jason Lloyd 6:00pm at Delta Blues BBQ

Hospital State 7:00pm at Cascade Draft House

The Jared Stout Band

8:00pm at Bristol Casino Bar

FRIDAY May 19th

Shake It Like A Caveman

6:00pm at Bristol Casino Bar

Eric Yost followed by The Harris & Ragsdale Duo 7:00pm at Cascade Draft House

Jeff Woods 8:00pm at Delta Blues BBQ

Marques Puckett & 8 Second Ride 8:00pm at Bristol Casino Bar

SATURDAY May 20th

Chris and Ashley followed by RJ Smith 7:00pm at Cascade Draft House

Cash Crop 7:30pm at Bristol Casino Bar

Samantha Gray 8:00pm at Delta Blues BBQ

Johnson City

TUESDAY May 16th

Brim & Marci Leal 6:30pm at Rocks Wood Fired Pizza

WEDNESDAY May 17th

HB Beverly 6:30pm at Rocks Wood Fired Pizza

THURSDAY May 18th

Justin Mychals 6:30pm at Rocks Wood Fired Pizza

Corey Snowden 8:00pm at Mulligan’s Gaming Pub

FRIDAY May 19th

Downtown J Brown 7:00pm at Mulligan’s Gaming Pub

Luke Bulla 8:00pm at the Down Home

Bob Fleming & the Cambria Iron Co | Dimestore Cowboys | Anthony Childerss 10:00pm at Capone’s

SATURDAY May 20th

Will Hoge 8:00pm at The Down Home

Chris Long 8:00pm at Mulligan’s Gaming Pub

The Bosses | The Side Effects

10:00pm at Capone’s

Kingsport

THURSDAY May 18th

Dan Herrell Acoustic 8:00pm at CJ’s Sports Bar

FRIDAY May 19th

Crossfire 9:00pm at CJ’s Sports Bar

SATURDAY May 20th

Ro-Sham-Bo 7:00pm at Market 2 Grille at Lakeview Marina

Dan Herrell & The Troubadours

9:00pm at CJ’s Sports Bar

Jonesborough

FRIDAY May 19th

Cruz Contreras 7:00pm at Music on the Square

Elizabethton

SATURDAY May 20th

Victor Lawson & Boogie Chillen at Covered Bridge Jams

44th Season of Liberty! to Open Friday, June 2nd!

The cast of Liberty! the Saga of Sycamore Shoals invites you to join them for their 44th season of the Official Outdoor Drama of the State of Tennessee. Each year, the Fort Watauga amphitheater comes to life with the sights and sounds of the late 18th century on the colonial frontier.

Nationally significant events that helped to shape the future of our nation before, during, and after the American Revolution are presented in an engaging, exciting, and entertaining fashion.

The Watauga Association, formed in 1772, was widely recognized as the first continental government that was “free and independent” of the British Crown, designed to provide for law and order and the right of every free man to vote. In 1774, Virginia Governor Lord Dunmore called it a “dangerous example” to form a government “distinct from and independent of his majesty’s authority.” Later, the area was annexed by North Carolina and became known as the Washington District, named in honor of General George Washington, who was leading the fight for American Independence at the time.

In 1775, The Treaty of Sycamore Shoals took place at the Watauga “Old Fields” where Judge Richard Henderson and other land speculators purchased 20 million acres of land from the Cherokee. This negotiation sparked a series of Cherokee attacks on the pioneers of the Watauga and surrounding settlements a year later.

Liberty! is set in front of the fullscale replica of Fort Watauga, which was used to defend the settlement against attacks from a faction of the Cherokee, led by Chief Dragging Canoe, who opposed the sale. Ultimately, the settlement was successful in staving off the attack and siege of the fort.

Sycamore Shoals also served as the gathering place for the Overmountain Men, who were an essential part of a broader militia that defeated Major Patrick Ferguson and his British force at the Battle of Kings Mountain in 1780. That event is often noted as a major turning point for the American Revolution.

Liberty! tells the stories of these important days of American history as well as demonstrating the life of pioneers in a frontier settlement. Moreover, it gives faces to the names we see on many of our street signs

neglected in the drama. Mary Patton, who learned the art of manufacturing gun powder from her father, provided the Overmountain Men with a minimum of 500 pounds of gunpowder for their foray into North Carolina in search of British Major Patrick Ferguson.

We also encounter Catherine “Bonnie Kate” Sherrill, a lively lass who was caught outside the fort during the siege attack, and was rescued by Sevier, whom she later married. While Tiptonville was the original name of Elizabethton, as part of the State of Franklin, it was later renamed for

– June 2 & 3 and June 9 & 10; Thursdays, Fridays, & Saturdays, June 15, 16, & 17 and 22, 23, & 24 in the Fort Watauga Amphitheater at Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park in Elizabethton, TN. General admission tickets range from Free for Children 5 and under; to $6.00 for Students 6 to 17 years; $12.00 for Seniors 55 and up; and $16.00 for Adults. Members of Friends of Sycamore Shoals, Veterans, and First Responders may attend the drama any night for a reduced adult/ senior admission price of $8.00.

Thursday June 15 especially honors our Veterans and First Responders with free admission for Veterans/ First Responder and 1 companion/ friend (limit of 1 per Veteran/First Responder).

Tickets may be purchased at the door or in advance online at TheLibertyDrama.com or you can purchase tickets at the door until all seats are sold.

and other local area designations. For example, we meet John Sevier, who went on to become the first Governor of Tennessee. We are also introduced to John Carter, and his son Landon, both of whom are reflected in the full name of the Carter Mansion, the oldest frame house in the state. It’s preserved by Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park and Friends of Sycamore Shoals.

The amazing strength and skills of the local pioneer women are far from

Landon’s wife, Elizabeth MacLin Carter, who also appears in the drama. This is only a partial list of fascinating local contributors to regional and national history, and putting the play on is quite an undertaking. It features professional lighting and sound, a well-maintained amphitheater, as well as a cast, crew, and production team of nearly 100 local actors in speaking and extra roles.

Liberty runs weekends in June beginning Fridays and Saturdays

The production of Liberty! is supported by Friends of Sycamore Shoals each season. Please support this vital organization and become a member to help support the Liberty drama, as well as a host of other educational park activities that take place throughout the year.

Don’t be one of the many who say “I’ve heard about it, but never gone.” And, if you’ve seen it, you’re most welcome to come again. Our script is always changing and is sure to keep you on the edge of your seats! Support your local history educators and preservationists; come learn about our history in a fun and entertaining context, and spread the word. We’ll see you at the Old Fields!

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

Sing Your Heart Out Karaoke 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

WEDNESDAY Trivia at Tipsy Toad

Jonesborough, TN 7pm

Trivia Night Mellow Mushroom Bristol, VA 7pm

THURSDAY

Mellow Trivia at Mellow Mushroom Johnson City, TN- 7pm

Trivia at Riverside Taphouse at South Fork Bluff City, TN 7:00pm

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

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

Down

1. Vena ____ (large heart vessel)

2. "...bump on ____"

3. Nasty comment

4. Longtime Magic 8 Ball maker

5. Egypt's Mubarak

6. Storied lamp finder

7. World financial org.

8. Attorney's charge

9. Sherlock's creator's monogram

10. Drinking aids

11. Stick out a lip

12. Alphabet quartet

13. Cheerful

18. Calms

21. Row counterpart (abbr.)

23. Australian bird

24. Num. on a bottle, say

25. Big Bad Wolf threat word

26. Recipe phrase

27. Agile

28. It's often taken to go

29. ___ mater (brain membrane)

DROP QUOTE

ACROSS

1. Group with roles to play

5. Mediterranean port

10. Letters on old Roman banners

14. Friend in need

15. Pre-Mayan people

16. Spanish bull

17. Granted

19. Wisconsin Senator Feingold

20. Beached, as a ship

21. Nasty, as remarks

22. Carny feature

26. Talmud letter

30. Rash

34. The South

35. "____ said!"

36. In between

37. After a lengthy pause

39. "____ your seat belts"

42. Oldies group ____ Na Na

43. Jackrabbit

47. Vowel sound

48. It has six feet

51. Game of kings and queens

52. Place for ghost stories

54. Menacing reptiles

57. Sleeveless shirt

62. Erstwhile Brat Packer Rob

63. Academic enclave

66. Wrote online, briefly

67. Copland composition

68. Sign over, as rights

69. Lose brilliance

70. Tokyo trasher

71. Pianist Dame Myra

31. Melissa Etheridge song, "___ Only One"

32. Opinions

33. Authors Ferber and O'Brien

38. Oates novel of 1969

40. Uphill climb

41. Acad. or univ.

44. Chemical neurotransmitter (abbr.)

45. Ring official

46. Red Sea nation

49. Comply

50. Some parents

53. Cotton alternative

54. Big name in energy bars

55. Tomato variety

56. Yet to be paid

58. Big Apple mayor Ed

59. Too, too cute

60. Brit. ref. tomes

61. Nov. electee

63. Factory outlet tag letters

64. "Hinky Dinky Parlay ___" (WWI song)

65. Curious Homer

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

SImpson

OF THE WEEK PETS

This beauty is 2 yr old Mila with blue eyes. She came in as an unsocialized older kitten and has come a long way since. Mila is still a little shy, but will seek attention

Mila Ryder

and with a quiet environment, she will adjust just fine. She is good with other cats, spayed, current on vaccinations and will be microchipped when adopted.

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

Last Week's Puzzle Answers

Sudoku Crossword

Meet Ryder!!! He is a handsome 7 year old Lab/Shepherd mix. Really, he is just an older gentleman who enjoys the simpler things in life, like napping in the sun and begging for treats. Ryder is not very high energy but gets excited for walks and the occasional zoomies

during play. He is dog selective and does not like cats. Ryder is on a poultry free diet due to skin allergies. He would prefer a home with adults or older children and a fenced in yard. Ryder is house trained, neutered, current on vaccinations and microchipped.

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

Cryptogram:

"There are two worlds we live in: a material world, bound by the laws of physics, and the world inside our mind, which is just as important."

Dropquote:

"Having a sense of purpose is having a sense of self. A course to plot is a destination to hope for.."

Summer Art Camp at William King Museum of Art

Summer Art Camp is a unique opportunity for children ages 4-18 to explore their creative side in a museum setting where they can find inspiration in the works of art that surround them.

Youth Summer Art Camp

Make new friendships and memories as you explore art and nature with William King Museum of Art’s Summer Art Camp 2023! Suitable for children ages 412. Artists have engaged with nature since the dawn of human creativity.

Now art and nature loving kids can join the ranks of artistnaturalists like John James Audubon as they create artwork using and inspired by the natural world at WKMA this summer! This art camp theme is inspired by the

Worrell Collection of Animal Art coming soon to WKMA, resident naturalist artist Suzanne Stryk, and the beauty of Appalachia... allowing kids to use creativity as a medium to connect to the natural world around them.

Teen Summer Art Camp

Tap into your creativity and discover your artistic style in Art Lab’s Teen Summer Camp at WKMA! Teens will spend five weeks honing their craft in one or more major art-making disciplines - mixed media/ installation art, ceramics, indigo dying and fabric printing, graphic design and drone photography. Suitable for teens ages 13 - 18 years.

Sign up for summer art camps online at williamkingmuseum.org

JOHNSON CITY

SATURDAYS

ACOA (adult children of alcoholics) 1:30-3:00pm. Call for info Bill 423-444-6107 or Cheryl 423-262-6149

FRIDAY MAY 19TH

Johnson City Love & Hiking

Date For Couples (Self-Guided)

7:00am at Willow Springs Park

Weekly YuGiOh Duel Night

6:00pm at CardFox

SATURDAY MAY 20TH

Johnson City Love & Hiking

Date For Couples (Self-Guided)

7:00am at Willow Springs Park

Johnson City Farmers Market

8:00am at Founders Park

SUNDAY MAY 21ST

Johnson City Love & Hiking Date For Couples (Self-Guided)

7:00am at Willow Springs Park

BRISTOL

THURSDAY MAY 18TH

“Do Not Disturb”

Canvas Class 6:00pm at Kil'n Time Studio

FRIDAY MAY 19TH

State St Tattoo Fest

2:00pm at The Foundation

Joel Byers 8:00pm at Blue Ridge Comedy Club

THINGS TO DO THINGS TO DO

SATURDAY MAY 20TH

State St Tattoo Fest

11:00am at The Foundation

Board Game Night 5:00pm at Bristol Public Library

Joel Byers 8:00pm at Blue Ridge Comedy Club

SUNDAY MAY 21ST

State St Tattoo Fest

11:00am at The Foundation

KINGSPORT

FRIDAY MAY 19TH

Art Alive: An Andy Warhol

Experience 6:00pm at The Inventor Center

SATURDAY MAY 20TH

Miss Memorial Day 2023

9:00am at Renaissance Arts Center & Theatre

Farmers Market 8:00am at Kingsport Farmer's Market

Nature: Wolf Howling

10:00am at Bays Mountain Park & Planetarium

JONESBOROUGH

TUESDAYS

Jonesborough Storytelling

Guild “Stories n’More” Show

7:00pm at The Intl.

Storytelling Center

THURSDAY MAY 18TH

Burger Night 5:30pm at Boone Street Market

SATURDAY MAY 20TH

Mill Spring Makers Faire 10:00am at Downtown Jonesborough

Historic Jonesborough

Town Tour 1:00pm at Chester Inn

State Historic Site

Historic Jonesborough Dance Society Contra Dancing 7pm at Jonesborough Visitor Center

ABINGDON, VA

WEDNESDAY MAY 17TH

Bingo 5:00pm at Abingdon

Community Center

FRIDAY MAY 19TH

Movies for Adults 2:00pm at Washington County Public Library

SUNDAY MAY 21ST

Bingo 5:00pm at Abingdon

Community Center

ERWIN

SATURDAY MAY 20TH

Wayne Scott Strawberry

Festival 10:00am at Unicoi

Elementary School

Foraging and Feasting in Unicoi

11:00am at Unicoi Visitor Center

PINEY FLATS

SATURDAY MAY 20TH

Comedy Show & Moonshine

Launch Party 6:00pm at East Tennessee Distillery

Biker Events

sponsored by biker wear

Local Events:

1. State Street Tattoo Fest May 19th to 21st State Street Bristol

2. Chapel Hart & 8 Second Ride May 28th East TN Distillery

3. Bug Tussle June 2nd to June 4th Elizabethton, TN

4. Thunder Valley Nationals June 9th to 11th

5. WNC Jeep Fest June 9th to 11th Maggie Valley

6. Bonnaroo June 15th – 18th Manchester, TN

Bike Night:

1. Wednesday – 19E Pit Stop

2. Wednesday – Jonesboro VFW – Dog Tags

3. Thursday - Quaker Steak & Lube

4. Friday - Tulips

Rides:

1. Ride To Fight Suicide May 27th 9am Black Wolf

Rallies:

1. Myrtle Beach Spring Rally May 12th to 21st

2. True Son MC 37th Bike Rally June 2nd to June 4th

3. Boone Bike Rally June 2nd to June 4th

4. 9th Annual Snake Pit Bike Rally in Shady Valley, TN June 9th to June 11th

5. Junebug Boogie Bike Rally June 15th – 18th

Cookeville TN

6. Thunder In The Smokies June 30th – July 2nd Maggie Valley, NC

7. 55th Dirt Drags Boozy Creek June 30th – July 2nd

Beanz Biker Corner Beanz Biker Corner

Hello everyone, hope everybody is enjoying the weather. Please take the time to look twice for motorcycles. After all it is riding season. Be safe and please take time to enjoy Gods many blessings.

Bikers are some of the greatest folks I have ever had the honor to know. A good friend of ours Earl Leonard was telling Pork and I that his blood brother’s heart was only working at 25% and half his foot had been cut off due to health reasons. Earl was worried because he knew his brother needed a ramp built to his house for a wheelchair. Pork and I told Earl we would do a poker run with as many bikers as we could round up. We titled it WesMann’s Ride For The Ramp. We would raise as much money as we could to help buy the lumber needed to get this done. So, on April 29th, 2023, we rolled out of Black Wolf

Harley Davidson with 70 bikes. Some folks knew Wesley, some knew Earl, some knew Pork & I but some didn’t even know Wesley (the man in need of help). These folks showed up to give of themselves, their time, money, love and support. We rolled through the countryside to US 421 where Sullivan

County Cops blocked the road to keep us safe. We rolled onto Highway 19E where Carter County Cops blocked the road so we could continue roar into 19E Pit Stop where more folks were gathered waiting for our arrival so they could give some more to help our cause. Lynnae Moon, a 13-yearold girl who loves to sing was there playing music. We then rolled through the back roads of Carter County and Washington County to Tulips in Johnson City where even more folks were waiting on us. We did a 50/50, door prizes and an auction. We raised a lot of money and even had an electric wheelchair donated. Grant Construction is donating time and the equipment needed to demo the steps, folks are volunteering their time to help with demo and building the ramp. We still need money and help to widen the doors in his home, but all in all it was a great day for a great cause.

Beanz Biker Corner

By Anne Hartley

423-297-5675

When you see a large group of bikes roaring down the road know this most likely we are paying to ride for a cause to help others in need. Move over and let us do what we do best, HELP OTHERS. Don’t mow your

grass in the road you could get us killed. Yes, we are bikers but live our lives by the code of respect. We are mothers, fathers, sons, daughters, grandfathers, grandmothers,

Useless Facts:

we too have families who are at home waiting for our safe return. Take time to get to know us. You just might make a new friend.

1. The month of May was originally named for the Greek goddess Maia.

2. In Gregorian calendar, May has 31 days.

3. May is a time of beginnings and fertility.

4. It is customary to wear a rose in your hair on May Day.

5. May is also known for being one of the most deadly months for tornadoes.

6. Memorial Day, or Decoration Day, is a US holiday observed on the last Monday in May.

7. The birthstone for May is the emerald.

8. The zodiac signs for May are Taurus (until May 20) and Gemini (May 21 onwards).

9. The birth flower for May is the Lily of the Valley.

10. May’s famous for many things, but did you know it’s National Strawberry Month?

Sponsored By Biker Wear

Liberty! Outdoor Drama Returns, Brings Family Together Over History

When “Liberty! the Saga of Sycamore Shoals” begins its 44th season of the Official Outdoor Drama of the State of Tennessee on June 2 this year, Michelle Shumate will reprise her role as Elizabeth MacLin for the fifth time since 2018. As the Fort Watauga amphitheater comes to life with the sights and sounds of the late 18th century on the colonial frontier, she won’t be alone. She will have her three children with her, continuing what has become a family tradition.

“I think I saw an ad for auditions on Facebook our first year,” Shumate said. “We had just had our third baby, and [my daughter] Avery was having some attachment issues. I was looking for a way to spend some time together, just some mom/ daughter time.”

Avery was six when they auditioned that year. Her experience was one of the reasons that Shumate keeps coming back. “That first year, she loved it, she really came out of her shell,” she said. “For her, there was no question. We had to do it again.”

Shumate, originally from Greenville, is a veteran performer. She’s been in dozens of productions across the region. The character that she plays in “Liberty,” however, was a real person. Elizabethton was named in her honor and her husband, Landon Carter, is where the county derives its moniker. Portraying a historical character has been a rewarding experience for Shumate.

“It’s different than a lot of the theater that I’ve done where it’s

just complete fiction,” Shumate said. “This is a true story; it has a firm basis in history.”

Though she had studied this history in school, Shumate had forgotten a lot of it. Taking part in “Liberty!” has led her to feel more grounded in the roots of

too. Avery, now 12, joins her mom on the outdoor stage, along with her brother, Nolan (9), who plays young Landon Carter. Even Shumate’s youngest, Hayden (5) gets to participate in the first part of Act I, before he goes home to stick to his bedtime. The drama is part of their lives, along with the story that it

helps connect us to the choices that were made that led us to the freedom we all now enjoy.”

As Shumate brings her family back to the drama this year, another reason they stay involved is the fellowship they share with the other actors. Though she’s been in many productions in her life, those relationships aren’t the same as what they experience being in “Liberty!” She and her children have made friendships that go beyond just four weeks in June.

“The thing that is different about this is that it is so family friendly,” said Shumate. “Everyone is so welcoming. It’s such a safe atmosphere and a learning atmosphere.

“There’s nothing else that I can compare it to. We can’t wait for it to open.”

Liberty runs weekends in June beginning Fridays and Saturdays – June 2 & 3 and June 9 & 10; Thursdays, Fridays, & Saturdays, June 15, 16, & 17 and 22, 23, & 24, in the Fort Watauga Amphitheater at Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park in Elizabethton, TN.

her home. “The first time I played Elizabeth, I really had to learn all about her,” Shumate said. “I did my research and talked to some of the historians that work at Sycamore Shoals, and I do feel a connection to her now.”

This history has become important to Shumate’s children

portrays.

“They think it’s so neat to learn about where we live and how this county became what it is, and how those people were instrumental for that,” Shumate said. “Though we don’t understand the depth of what was at stake for those early settlers and patriots, the drama

General admission tickets range from Free for Children 5 and under; to $6 for Students 6 to 17 years; $12 for Seniors 60 and up; and $16 for Adults. Members of Friends of Sycamore Shoals can pay $8, while Veterans and First Responders may attend the drama any night for a reduced adult/senior admission price of $7.00.

Online Ticket Sales - www. TheLibertyDrama.com or you can purchase tickets at the door until all seats are sold.

Down With The Dirty Delete!

So you posted content that you believed would garner support then ended up getting burned instead so you deleted the post. If the content no longer exists on the platform it was created on, it can't come back to haunt you, right? Wrong. Screenshots kept the post alive despite your best efforts and now the backlash is too much to handle. The dirty delete has become a common way to attempt escaping comments that differ from the way content is intended. Instead of allowing for a difference of opinion that could lead to education, it creates a sense of immaturity. The emotional labor of the respondents is wasted when the original content is removed. Educating

someone with a different take requires time and effort that is diminished by removing the content.

Leaving responses in the abyss without context gaslights the people who tried to right a wrong and makes them appear to be speaking nonsense. With the original content deleted, no one can see the full conversation to fully understand the narrative.

An unwillingness to learn and grow from the post shows problematic tendencies and an inability to handle constructive conversations. An unwillingness to hear another side other than your own prevents others from properly engaging to have a clear and educational discussion.

Unless the content is directly harmful, leave the post and all comments up and update to show you understand why the post was problematic and that you are willing to learn and grow from the education provided. Comments can always be added to show the growth that has been created from the conversation and your commitment to doing better in the future.

Making a mistake proves you're human. Showing you can learn and grow shows you understand that you may not be an expert, but that you're willing to put in the time and effort to change your opinion.

Social Sentiments

By Wendy Hayden socialsentiments @outlook.com

Budd/Bosch Yearly Reunion

2023 SUMMER PICNIC

When: June 24

Time: 2:00 - ??

Place: Cash Hollow Church 438 Cash Hollow Road

Call Buddy Cretsinger @ 848-9162 for directions

Spouses and family members are invited!

Everyone please bring a covered dish to share and drinks for your family.

Please bring the follow items to share based on your last name:

A-G meat

H-M potato dish

N-T vegetable dish

U-Z Dessert (anyone can bring extras)

Bring lawn chairs for your family and any outdoor games you would like to share

Call or text Louse Durbin with any questions; 423-929-8648(land line) or 423-914-0966 (cell)

Try as I might, I am not exempt from letting my preconceptions get the better of me, and in this case it’s cost me approximately 3 years of good meals. A couple weeks ago I finally made it to dinner at Timber, a lodge style restaurant tucked away on Johnson City’s Walnut Street. The restaurant has been there since 2020, but between the chaos of Covid, my tendency of being in town on days they’re closed (Sunday and Monday), serious road construction on Walnut Street, and being a creature of habit, it’s taken me this long to make it in. And I must be honest-I had pre-conceived notions about the place based on past experience with its location which wasn’t inspiring me to pick up the pace and get there any faster.

When I was in college, I lived on the Tree Streets at 403 West Maple for 3 years before moving on down to the 700 block for 3 years more. That very first apartment was directly behind what is now Timber, but was once The Acoustic Coffee House. While I’m sure I’m going to be crucified by hundreds of you all who have fond memories of sipping beers and brews while enjoying live music at the Coffeehouse, I have to say it was my least favorite place in Johnson City. It never failed, every time I tried to just grab a beer and do my laundry at the attached laundromat I was harassed by panhandlers and the mentally ill; the whole place reeked of patchouli and was always crawling with the same clientele I had to see when I was working as a bartender, which is never enjoyable on your days off. After someone got hammered and drove through the back patio one night, I decided I would take my laundry to Mom and Dad’s and save the trouble.

With those not-so-precious memories dancing through my head, I had a hard time imagining the potential for Timber. In my mind they would have to level the place to eradicate the stench of patchouli alone! But to my surprise upon entering

Timber!

for dinner, the place was unrecognizable. I opted to sit at the bar even though I’d reserved a table. (I highly recommend making reservations, as this space is limited and fills up quickly.) The bar sits cozy in the corner, surrounding a large stone mantle and decorated with various pieces of taxidermy. It feels as though you’re settling in at a welcoming mountain lodge, which you kind of are, except it’s walking distance to ETSU and downtown and smack in the middle of a residential neighborhood. I was also happy to report not even so much as a whiff of hippie oil, but the smells wafting into the dining room from the kitchen were absolutely intoxicating.

As I inspected the cocktail menu, I was thrown for another loop – this beverage program is on par if not better than the highly rated and nationally recognized bars and restaurants I visit in Nashville. The menu is perfectly succinct, offering enough options to satisfy any palate, yet brief enough that the intricate and somewhat elusive ingredients don’t overwhelm or intimidate. The current cocktail selection is rooted in classic prohibition era libations, but with their own unique twists that showcase the creativity and love for the craft of Beverage Manager Brandon. I was lucky enough to land at his bar on a night when he was tending, and I was able to make informed decisions on everything from aperitif to dessert based on his expert suggestions.

I began my Timber experience with a cocktail while I waited on the arrival of my dining companion. The Vandelay Bay was the perfect happy hour sipper, a riff on a classic sour using London Dry gin, lime juice and a surprise decadent mezcal and banana infused foam layer. A sprinkling of chrysanthemum was the perfect finishing touch to this drink of so many seemingly mismatched flavors that melted seamlessly together into a silky smooth glass of happiness.

After my friend arrived, we started brainstorming our food strategy. While I am typically a supporter of solo dining – in fact I encourage it – this is a rare occasion where I will strongly suggest taking someone, if not several someone’s,

simply because the selections are so varied and in a variety of sizes that are perfect for sharing and trying a little bit of everything. The dishes are sorted in order of small, medium and large, with everything but the large orders coming a la carte.

It was tough to narrow down, but we ultimately landed on the Fried Balls of Cheese as our “small” (how could we not), the Lamb Meatballs and the Animal Style Crispy Potatoes for our “mediums”, and split the burger as our “large” although we substituted the hand-cut fries for brussels sprouts, in an effort to at least pretend we ate something heart healthy. The Fried Balls of Cheese were exactly as delicious and simplistic as they sound-deep fried wads of gouda served with a side of ranch. You can probably hear my arteries clogging as I type this, but honestly you can never go wrong with breaded and fried cheese served with a side of herb-laden mayo dip. My favorite dish of the night fell in the “medium” category, with the Lamb Meatballs being my pick for “dish of the night.” Served on a thick shmear of English Pea puree, drizzled with tzatziki and decorated with a handful of chiffoned mint, the only way this could have been better is if it were served exactly as is, except on a pita or naan so I could consume it with my hands. The Crispy Animal Style potatoes were also a feast fit for a beast, the large hunks of spuds thickly breaded and smothered, covered, assaulted and hospitalized by various sauces and pickled jalepenos. My thoroughly American palate, as much as I attempt to downplay it, was overjoyed with this wild display of “more is more.” Finally, the coup de gras came in the form of a double-pattied burger, piled high with carmelized onions, Worcestershire aioli, and American cheese. I don’t know what they’re doing to the burgers at Timber, but this one takes the cake in all of Johnson City, and perhaps in East Tennessee entirely. Do not skip this burger, regardless of how adventurous your palate; I promise it’s worth it.

As usual I paired my grub with vino, opting for a jammy, delicious Beaujolais that was light enough to accommodate the various flavor profiles but held enough complexity to stand up to the decadent

by Kathie Scalf

fare. Another excellent selection would have been the Blaufrankish, a biodynamic Austrian juice that Brandon was gracious enough to let me sample. Guys, this is exactly why you shouldn’t be afraid to try things you are unfamiliar with, even if you can’t pronounce them! This wine was a knockout, light with notes of blue fruit but enough savory notes on the backend to stand up to a variety of culinary choices. If you’re nervous about a wine that’s on the glassable list, always ask for a sample! Any bar or restaurant worth it’s salt will have no problem letting you taste it before you commit.

Timber was an unexpected hit for me. I can’t wait to be back in town and explore more of it’s ever-changing menu selections. Believe me when I tell you, this town has quite the gem on it’s hands with this innovative addition to the Tri-Cities food and beverage scene. This restaurant manages to maintain it’s deep Appalachian roots while exploring flavors from foreign lands in a way that’s easily digestible for the consumer – both metaphorically and literally. Can’t wait to catch you there!

XO - Kathie

ETSU’s Carter Railroad Museum Sponsoring Fall Excursion

Lock in your spot now for a fall railroad excursion.

Sept. 2-4, the George L. Carter Chapter of the National Railway Historical Society and East Tennessee State University’s George L. Carter Railroad Museum will sponsor a trip that features stops in Chattanooga and Blue Ridge, Georgia. Limited seating is available. Tickets must be purchased by July 15.

“This is going to be a terrific holiday adventure if you love trains and the scenic outdoors, with the added attraction of an afternoon at

one of the premier aquariums in the nation,” organizers said.

Forms and waivers are available at the ETSU Carter Railroad Museum, located at 113 Campus Center Building, on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Forms, including ticket purchases, are also available at memrr.org. Select “NRHS” and then “excursions.”

For more information, contact Catherine Cummins at (225) 229-5653 or email her at catherinecummins995@ gmail.com.

Ghosted

I have always been a fan of action/adventure films, so I was looking forward to catching the new film "Ghosted" starring Captain America himself Chris Evans. While I have enjoyed the work of Evans, I feel he comes into his own when his roles feature comedic moments. Sure, he can be dramatic with the best, but I feel he shines when he can give audiences some laughs. In his latest role Evans is cast as Cole Turner, a vendor at a Washington D.C. farmers market where he meets an attractive girl named Sadie (Ana de Armas). Even though they argue over a plant Cole does not want Sadie to buy, the two eventually meet for coffee and eventually go out on a date that soon turns into more. When Cole returns to his parents farm, he finds himself continually texting Sadie who does not respond. Cole's sister is convinced Sadie is "ghosting" him, and he should forget about her. Cole refuses, and after discovering she is in London, decides to surprise her by traveling to the United Kingdom. Not long after he arrives in London in search of Sadie, he is abducted by arms dealers from Pakistan who take him for a CIA operative known as "the Taxman". Despite trying to convince his

Pop Life

By Ken Silvers theloaferonlineprint @gmail.com

abductors he is not part of the CIA, they are not convinced, and as they are about to torture him to get a passcode to something they covet, Sadie swoops in to rescue him. After the exciting rescue, Sadie reveals herself as the Taxman, and she and Cole argue about her lying. Sadie is trying to avoid those, including ex-French Intelligence agent Leveque (Adrien Brody), who need the password from her that will open a bioweapon called Aztec. When the two arrive in a nearby town, they meet with Sadie's former love, who has agreed to take Cole home to keep him out of Sadie's mission. The plans are thwarted when several bounty hunters after the two, off each other, leaving the duo on their own. Sadie will use Cole as bait to lure Leveque into the open, who soon shows up to take Cole in an attempt to retrieve the passcode. Leveque's plan fails, as the two manage to escape the plane they are being held in and manage to land on Socotra Island, where they are rescued by the U.S. Marines. The duo then are taken to D.C. where Sadie is suspended from duty for losing Aztec, but Cole is to be used by the CIA as a substitute Taxman. Cole is to meet Leveque in a revolving restaurant in an effort to supposedly sell him the passcode. There is a big showdown in the revolving restaurant, which begins to spin out of control, only adding to the suspense and excitement. As one might expect, the good guys win in the end, but not after we have plenty of chase scenes and bantering between the two co-stars to enjoy. The film does not end in cliffhanger style, but does leave the possibility for future adventures with Sadie and Cole. The actors are all wonderful in their respective roles, with Evans and Armas having great onscreen chemistry. The film features Amy Sedaris and Tate

Donovan as Cole's parents, and they are a pleasant addition. There is also a surprise cameo by a famous actor who interacts with Evans in a hilarious scene toward the conclusion of the film. This film has the right mix of action, comedy and romance to make for a fun movie night for older kids and adults. Director Dexter Fletcher ("Band of Brothers") does a wonderful job of keeping the film moving at a brisk pace

and allowing the actors to shine. The film doesn't break any new ground concerning its plot, but who cares as the charm of Evans carries the film. "Ghosted '' is a film to be enjoyed when you need a "popcorn" flick to forget the challenges of everyday life. Now playing on Apple TV+.

(Rated PG-13)

Bristol

PARAMOUNT

May 11 Steep Canyon Rangers

May 19 A Brothers RevivalTribute to The Allman Brothers

May 20 Paramount Chamber Players

May 21 Mac Powell

Jun 3 Sara Evans

Jun 13 Marcy Playground

Jun 15 Dave Mason

Jun 17 Nightrain-Tribute to Guns n Roses

Jun 24 Bored Teachers Comedy Tour

Jul 2 Ozark Mtn Daredevils

Jul 13 Farm and Fun Time featuring Rodney Crowell

Jul 22 Head Games-Tribute to Foreigner

Jul 29 Journeyman:

Tribute to Eric Clapton

Aug 12 Yellow Brick Road-

Tribute to Elton John

Sep 16 EW&F-Tribute to Earth, Wind and Fire

Oct 14 Lady Supreme-

Tribute to Diana Ross

Nov 11 Chi-Town Transit AuthorityTribute to Chicago

Dec 16 Soultown to MotownTribute to Motown

CAMEO THEATER

May 10 An Evening with Roger McGuinn

May 12 The Jerry Douglas Band

May 19 Jason Petty “Hank and my Honky Tonk Heroes”

May 20 Donnie Baker and Friends Howlin Wolf Moonshine Comedy Show

Jun 17 Vixen

Jun 24 Robert Randolph

Jul 9 Glam Slam Metal Tour with Enuff Znuff, The Quireboys and Bad Marriage

Jul 16 Stryper

Jul 17 Tommy Emmanuel

Aug 17 Foghat

JOHNSON CITY

FREEDOM HALL

Jun 2 Mr. Speed- Kiss Tribute

Nov 1 Foreigner

MARTIN CENTER FOR THE ARTS

May 20 The Black Jacket Symphony: Tom Petty’s Full Moon Fever

CONCERT SCHEDULE CONCERT SCHEDULE

KINGSPORT

FUN FEST SUNSET CONCERT SERIES

Jul 20 Danny Gokey with Ellie Holcomb

Jul 21 Boys II Men with JohnnySwim

Jul 22 Clay Walker with Brittney Spencer

RED, WHITE AND BOOM

Jul 1 Cheap Trick

GREENVILLE

NISWONGER PERFORMING ARTS CENTER

May 5 Wild World of Animals Free Community Concert Series

May 13 Marty Stuart & His Fabulous Superlatives

May 20 Get The Led OutLed Zeppelin Tribute

May 24 The Beach Boys

Jul 14 Dugger Band

Knoxville

TENNESSEE THEATRE

Apr 26 Ben Folds and a Piano

Apr 27 Wilco

Apr 28 Amy Grant

May 2 Gary Clark Jr.

May 10 The Flaming Lips

May 12 Keb Mo

May 13 Alice Cooper

May 20 Chelsea Handler

May 21 The Wood Brothers with Shovels & Rope

Jul 25 ZZ Top

Aug 15 Lyle Lovett and His Large Band

Aug 18 Kansas

THOMPSON BOWLING ARENA

May 16 Stevie Nicks

May 23 Breaking Benjamin /Bush and Another Day Dawns

Jun 23 Hank Williams Jr.

Jul 15 Thomas Rhett

Jul 29 The Chicks

Sept 12 Guns n Roses

Oct 6 Elevation Worship & Steven Furtick

Oct 16 Shania Twain

Nov 24 Kiss: End of the Road Tour

Dec 8 Lauren Daigle

KNOXVILLE CIVIC COLISEUM

Aug 24 Billy Strings

Sep 14 Parker McCollum

BIJOU THEATRE

May 18 Spyro Gyra

Aug 11 /12 The Steeldrivers

Aug 23 Devon Allman & Donavon Frankenreiter

Oct 7 Henry Cho

Nashville

RYMAN AUDITORIUM

May 8-10 John Mellencamp

May 12 Gov’t Mule

May 15 Tom Jones

May 19 Crowded House

May 24 Rick Springfield

Jun 2 Boz Scaggs

Jun 3/4 Tanya Tucker

Jun 11/12 Indigo Girls

Jun 15 LeAnn Morgan

Jun 17/18 Styx

Jun 18 Jackson Browne (Opry)

Jun 24 Tori Amos

Jul 6 Sam Bush

Jul 13 Rhonda Vincent

Jul 27 Ricky Skaggs

Jul 28 America

Jul 30 Melissa Etheridge

Aug 7 Sara Evans

Aug 19 Kansas

ASCEND AMPHITHEATER

May 6 Whiskey Myers

May 11 Koe Wetzel

Jun 23 Walker Hayes

Jul 11 Foreigner and Loverboy

Jul 18 Louis Tomlinson

Jul 19 Yungblud

Aug 27 Ghost

Sep 12 /13 Artic Monkeys

BRIDGESTONE ARENA

May 4 Janet Jackson with Ludacris

Jun 13 Duran Duran

Jun 17 Bryan Adams and Joan Jett

Jun 19 Drake

Jul 1 Kid Rock

Jul 3 Matchbox Twenty and The Wallflowers (new date)

Jul 16 Blink 182

Jul 24 Greta Van Fleet

Jul 29 Sam Smith

Aug 1 Nickelback

Aug 12 Luke Bryan

Sep 12 Alice Cooper and Rob Zombie

Sept 20 Wu-Tang Clan

Sept 22 Avenged Sevenfold

Sept 29 Thomas Rhett

Oct 11 John Mayer

Oct 19 Depeche Mode

Oct 3 Kiss End of the Road

Oct 25 Queen & Adam Lambert

Dec 22 Madonna

NISSAN STADIUM

May 5-7 Taylor Swift

Jun 11 CMA Fest

Jun 15 Beyonce

Jul 22 Ed Sheeran

Jul 28-29 George Strait, Chris Stapleton & Little Big Town

BROOKLYN BOWL

May 20 The Steel Woods

GEODIS PARK

Aug 26 Guns n Roses

BROWN COUNTY MUSIC CENTER

Apr 29 Blues Traveler

Apr 30 Buddy Guy

May 17 Chicago

Jun 6 Kenny Wayne Shepherd Band

Jun 9 Rodney Carrington

Jun 11 KC and the Sunshine Band

Jun 19 Jackson Browne

Manchester

BONNAROO MUSIC AND ARTS FESTIVAL

Jun 15-18 Foo Fighters, Paramore, Nil Nas X, Sheryl Crow, Kendrick Lamar, Korn, The Revivalists, Pixies, Umphrey’s McGee and more!

Chattanooga

RIVERBEND FESTIVAL

Jun 2-4 Maureen Morris, Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats, Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue, Coin, Goose, Big Boi, Blackberry Smoke, Les Claypool’s Fearless Flying Frog Brigade and more!

BRISTOL TN/VA

GREENVILLE TN

A couple of months ago I went to see one of my long-time favorite bands, They Might Be Giants, in concert. The show was over in Asheville at their much-beloved venue The Orange Peel, a place I liked a lot. It was the first time I had been here to see a show and the first time I’d been to a standing-only show since my 20s. I must share with you one crucial fact about your humble writer. I have bad feet. I’ve had them all my life. Fallen arches, and something else that I don’t recall from when they told me all this when I was 8 years old. My feet were even operated on when I was 10 to try to help with the pain. The operation did help, but they still ache if I’m on them for extended periods.

There’s also the bonus fun fact that as I am aging my historically bad feet are getting a little bit worse. Yet, I felt confident I would be fine at the concert. I knew the place had a lounge where you could sit and see the show piped in on a private TV stream. I wore my most supportive shocks and shoes and prepared myself for a wonderful evening.

What I didn’t take into consideration was the walking I would have to do

The Foot Rebellion

from parking to get to the venue, nor the standing outside waiting for the doors to open. Thanks to friends who know the area better than I do, I was able to find parking just two blocks away. That wasn’t bad. Standing outside the venue was a little bit of a challenge, it did give me pause for concern, but I was pleased my plan to try to compensate for my bad feet appeared to be working. The doors opened, and I saw friends who were there, pleasant times all around. The show began and it was delightful. I was very geeked up and so happy to hear a band I’ve loved for many years live after so long. They were playing their beloved and iconic 1990 album “Flood” in its entirety as part of this tour. I didn’t want to miss a thing.

Then, suddenly, about halfway into the first act I began to notice my feet, despite all my efforts, were aching very badly. I knew there was bound to be some pain, there is no failsafe when it comes to me and my feet. The pain was tolerable, then soon grew more and more into a sense of

urgency. I felt a voice as if a calling was reaching out to me from deep within. The voice was plain and clear: “If you don’t sit down we are going to rebel on you and topple you over like an old-growth tree toppling in a forest.”

I looked to my left, people. I looked to my right, more people. I knew that I would need to make a break for the lounge downstairs. I looked behind me and saw a gap where I could work my way to the stairs that led to the lounge. I said “pardon me” a lot as I began my way over, each step was painful. I manage and worked my way down to the lounge.

I found a big soft sofa and sat down on it and watched the rest of the first half. My feet were relieved. I spent most of the rest of the show down there, as I could tell things were going to be a little touch a go. I went back up towards the end of the second act as I wanted to be in the main room for “Birdhouse in Your Soul.” The concert was great, I slowly made my way to where I had

parked the car.

I was also relieved I didn’t topple over in a room full of people. That would have caused me much anxiety and something to ruminate over for nights to come. Now the next day? Well, when I got out of bed my feet immediately went “Nope!” I about did the old growth fall right back into my bed. The rest of that day I was moving slowly as if I needed a cartoon trombone sound effect to go with it.

I’ve learned next time I go see a show I need to check if it’s standing room only or if there are any places to go and sit. As much fun as I had, I learned I can’t take the chance to topple myself right into the ground again at another show like that. Maybe when I’m gone one day they’ll dedicate a park to me in a manner suiting the old-growth tree my true inner self is. Today my feet are fine, and I think I may walk around a garden center. There will be soft bags of soil to fall on there if needed. See you next week.

By Andy Ross theloaferonlineprint @gmail.com