The Loafer 88

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:

FIREWORKS in the Tri-Cities

American Downtown

July 1, 2023

Bicentennial Park, Greenville

At this Independence Day Celebration, you’ll enjoy live music, food trucks, a fantastic nighttime parade, a hot dog eating contest, and more. Of course, the evening will end with a glorious fireworks show.

Red, White, & Blue Bash

July 1, 2023

Gate City, VA

We are proudly partnering with Gate City UPC to bring you an amazing day filled with family, faith, fun, and fireworks!

Red White and Boom Celebration

July 1, 2023

Centennial Park, Kingsport

This Independence Day festival boasts a variety of live bands, food vendors, fireworks, and more!

Abingdon Independence Day Celebration

July 1, 2023

Abingdon Visitor Center, Abington, VA Food & Drinks, Arts & Crafts, Face Painting,

Cornbread Fritter Eating Contest, Fireworks, Live Music.

Jonesborough Days Parade & Fireworks

July 1-2, 2023

Downtown Jonesborough, TN

This fun July 4th event will feature a variety of events throughout the weekend including a parade, contests, food and craft vendors, live music, games, kids’ activities, and fireworks!

Watauga Lake Boat Parade & Fireworks

July 1, 2023

Watauga Lake, Hampton

Enjoy an exciting July 4th boat parade in the afternoon with tons of boats decorated for the 4th of July. There will also be a small fireworks display with music after dark.

Pepsi Independence Day Celebration and Fireworks

July 3, 2023

Freedom Hall Civic Center, Johnson City Ring in Independence Day right with games, music, fireworks, food vendors, and more!

Star Spangled Border Bash and July 4th Parade

July 4, 2023

Anderson Park, Bristol

At the Star-Spangled July 4th Border Bash, guests will enjoy a fabulous parade, live music, food vendors, games, and fireworks!

Independence Day Festival and Parade

July 4, 2023

Rogersville City Park

This festive July 4th event boasts one of the largest firework displays in the southeast. There will also be a parade, live music, games, food vendors, and more.

Freedom Fest

July 4, 2023

Unicoi Elementary School, Unicoi

This fantastic July 4th event boasts live music, food vendors, games, and an amazing fireworks show!

Bristol TN/Va

Bristol, TN/VA

WEDNESDAY Jun 28th

Kasey Williams 7:00pm at Cascade Draft House

THURSDAY Jun 29th

Little Jon Chrisley and Friends

7:00pm at Cascade Draft House

If Birds Could Fly 1

0:00pm at Bristol Casino Bar

FRIDAY Jun 30th

Songs From The Road Band

6:00pmat Bristol Casino Bar

Dallas Danger 7:00pm at Cascade Draft House

J.R. and The Big Guns

8:00pm at Delta Blues BBQ

April B. & The Cool 8:30pm at Bristol Casino Bar

SATURDAY Jul 1st

Victor Lawson and Boogie

Chillen 6:00pm at Bristol Casino Bar

Anthony Wayne Vibe 7:00pm at Cascade Draft House

Midnight Gypsys

8:00pm at Delta Blues BBQ

The Jared Stout Band 8:30pm at Bristol Casino Bar

MONDAY Jul 3rd

Anthony Childress 7:00pm at Cascade Draft House

Johnson City

Johnson City, TN

TUESDAY Jun 27th

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

WEDNESDAY Jun 28th

Rheva & Keegan’s Irish Fiddle Tunes 5:30pm at Mulligan’s Gaming Pub

HB Beverly 6:30pm at Rocks Wood Fired Pizza

Michelle Malone and Sarah Peacock

7:30pm at The Down Home

THURSDAY Jun 29th

Justin Mychals 6:30pm at Rocks Wood Fired Pizza

The Well Drinkers 6:30pm at Lakeside Concert Series

FRIDAY Jun 30th

The Bosses 8:00pm at Mulligan’s Gaming Pub

Jake Dwyer Band | Alli Epperson | Toby Gibson

10:00pm at Capone’s

SATURDAY Jul 1st

Some Old Friends 8:00pm at Mulligan’s Gaming Pub

The Kindest People and Jusfine

10:00pm at Capone’s

Kingsport

Kingsport, TN

FRIDAY Jun 30th

Donnie and the Dry Heavers

7:30pm at High Voltage

Stitcher CJ 7 9:00pm at CJ’s Sports Bar

SATURDAY Jul 1st

Cheap Trick with Music City

Stones5:00pm at Twilight Alive

Full Sirkle 9:00pm at CJ’s Sports Bar

Elizabethton

Elizabethton, TN

FRIDAY Jun 30th

Stone Fire Band 6:00pm at Daddy Mac’s BBQ

SATURDAY Jul 1st

REO/Survivor 8:00pm at Covered Bridge Jams

Free 4th of July Party Games

By [https://EzineArticles.com/expert/ Gail_Leino/23505]Gail Leino

Planning for a fourth of July party? Here are two exciting 4th of July party games that are sure to entertain the children.

The 4th of July Cat and Mouse Party Game

The 4th of July cat and mouse party game is a game played by two groups of children. Divide the children into two groups and make them sit in two rows opposite each other. Leave enough space between the two rows, for the children to walk around. Select two children at the start of the gameone to be the “cat” and the other the “mouse”. Blindfold both the children and place the child playing the cat at one end of the row and the child playing the mouse at the opposite end of the row.

The party game rolls into action when the “cat” tries to catch the “mouse”.

Both the children start to walk in opposite directions using the chairs to guide themselves. The action of the cat trying to catch the mouse is a delightful one and is sure to excite the children who are watching the game. Amidst squeals and peals of laughter, when the mouse is finally caught by the cat, the game continues with two other children playing the cat and mouse.

The 4th of July Patriotic Alphabet Game

Another interesting game that children would love to play at the 4th of July party is the patriotic alphabet game. This is a special 4th of July game that involves learning along with a lot of fun. To play this game you require a boxful of letters. You can either purchase them at any toy store or if you would like to convert this into another fun activity, you can arrange the children themselves to prepare the letters from newspaper cuttings - a new fun way to start a fun game.

Have the participants of the 4th of July party seated round a table. Shuffle the alphabets and deal it among them. The children then should form the word of the states of America with the letters given to them. For this, the entire list of 50 states can be given to them at the beginning of the play. The patriotic

alphabet game is a fun way for children to learn not only to form new words but also the various names of the states.

Article Source: [http:// EzineArticles.com/?Free-4th-ofJuly-Party-Games&id=494424]

Free 4th of July Party Games

By [https://EzineArticles.com/ expert/Matthew_Toone/423921]

Matthew Toone

What is it about America’s Independence Day that makes this holiday so sacred and significant to each of us? Is it the parades, fireworks, festivities, or commemorations? Is it the remembrance of honorable founding fathers who had the courage to stand up for and even fight for liberty? Or is it the appreciation of the countless thousands who have sacrificed and given their lives to preserve the very liberty and freedoms this country was founded on and still enjoys? Certainly it is all of these and more. However, perhaps even more important than anything mentioned above, what makes this holiday so loved and appreciated, anticipated and planned for, and sacred and significant to us all is the simple fact that July 4th serves as a day to remember, appreciate, and surround ourselves with what and who is most important in life - family!

Below are listed ten 4th of July activities that any family will enjoy - activities that are both fun and meaningful.

1) Significance of Holiday: In

Fun & Meaningful Ideas For Families

connection with the point above, spend time thinking and learning about the significance of this day: read about the founding of our country, learn more about the Revolutionary War, read the Constitution or Dec. of Independence, visit graves of those who gave their lives for this country and our freedom, read historical accounts or stories, etc.

2) Thank-You’s: Spend a few minutes writing ‘Thank You’s’ to those serving in the military. Whether to a family member, friend, or neighbor - or to your local military unit - express gratitude through a letter or care package.

3) 4th of July Activities: Of course, what would the 4th of July be without a BBQ or picnic, watching Fireworks, attending a parade, playing or watching baseball, playing games as a family, etc.

4) Honor the Flag: Attend a Flag Ceremony in the morning. Put up a flag in your own yard. Learn about the significance and history of the flag.

5) Historical Spots: Visit a local (or national) historical spot.

6) Express Gratitude: Around the dinner table, have everyone express a few reasons why they

love and appreciate this country.

7) Parade: Watch a parade, attend a parade, or actually make your own parade. Have the neighbor kids ride their bikes, have pets, people can walk, make your own ‘floats’, drive cars and have kids throw candy out, etc. - just around your neighborhood.

8) Water Fight: Play a game with friends or family and just have a big water fight.

9) American Trivia Game: Prepare and play a trivia game. In preparation, prepare American history questions: American dates, Presidents, Wars, Founders, States, Historical events or spots, etc. Then have an American Trivia game with everyone.

10) Family Time: Stay up late as a family and just sleep under the stars. Have a campout in the backyard, tell stories and jokes, play games, and just spend time together as a family.

The 4th of July is about picnics, parades, BBQ’s, and firecrackers. It is also certainly about patriotism, independence, liberty and freedom. But even more than that, the 4th of July must be an annual reminder of who and what is most important in

life - our family! And never forget that the ‘parades’ and ‘fireworks’ of life are only moments of effortless entertaining pleasure; but the joy, happiness, and success of a family is far more rewarding and yet is only achieved through sacrifice, hard work, persistence, getting up after temporary defeats, and especially because of unselfishness - the very same qualities that our country was founded upon!

Matt is the founder of [http://www. Tips4Families.com/] - a website full of helpful parenting advice, fun games and activities, traditions and holiday ideas, and tips and articles for families everywhere. Matt is also the author of: “Great Games! 175 Games & Activities for Families, Groups, & Children.” To view the book and learn more, visit: [http://www. GreatGamesBook.com/]

Article Source: [http:// EzineArticles.com/?4th-ofJuly-Activities---10-Funand-Meaningful-Ideas-ForFamilies&id=2979225] 4th of July Activities - 10 Fun & Meaningful Ideas For Families

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

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. Mag

2. All in the family

3. Boxed in

4. Place for a smile

5. ___ wool (soft material)

6. Anticipates

7. In excelsis ___

8. Orange ___ (cleaning brand)

9. Sixth sense

10. Actress Hepburn

11. Brought into play

12. Mino end?

13. "All ___" (Tomlin film)

18. Compliant one

21. EPA-banned substance

23. Astonishment

24. Al Bundy's wife

25. Dumb as ____

26. Opposite of "cathode"

27. Plaid alternative

DROP QUOTE

ACROSS

1. ____ Dingbats

(pictographic typeface)

5. Climber's respite

10. Car

14. Swedish retail giant

15. Tricky jumps

16. Amer. military fliers

17. Doofus

19. "Te ___" (hymn)

20. "Raid on ___" (1976 film)

21. Eminem mentor

22. Reckless adventure

CRYPTOGRAM

CSGNVDP VG NRP PQE FK BFHPUQZPQN. VN

VG NRP PQE FK DVHVT

GFDVPNO. VN PHPU RXG JPPQ XQE PHPU

MVTT JP ASUGSPE SQNVT VN JP

FJNXVQPE, FU SQNVT TVJPUNO JP TFGN VQ

NRP ASUGSVN.

Alexander Hamilton

26. "Harold and Maude" director Hal

30. Blackjack goal

34. Term for disturbance in England, 1838

35. Utah's flower

36. Mauna ___

37. Israeli prime minister Ehud

39. Agent Mulder's show, with "The"

42. God, in Italy

43. Online video source

47. In a cold way

48. "Star Search" host

51. "___ duck swim?"

52. Merging

54. Grand Canyon ride

57. Raises canines

62. Mtn. road info

63. Kind of store

66. Crippled

67. Miniature

68. Nothing, slangily

69. Give ____ to (approve)

70. Cable sports awards

71. Airline passenger's table

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

28. Words mouthed at a TV camera

29. Date follower?

31. Stan's partner

32. Seasonal songs

33. Class requiring little effort

38. Asian cuisine

40. Squirm

41. Windows button file format

44. TV dial letters

45. Myrna of the movies

46. Whole

49. Arced

50. 6 on the telephone

53. Safe toy brand

54. Lugosi who played Dracula

55. ____ Bator

56. San ____, Italy

58. Leonardo and crew, briefly

59. Get wind of

60. "Never ____ sentence with a preposition"

61. Hang around

63. JFK predecessor

64. Sounds of disgust

OF THE WEEK PETS

Acea is a 2 yr old boy that has the cutest mustache !!! He is a little shy so he might need a quiet home. Acea would probably do best with no dogs and children over 12 years old. He does great with other cats and loves playing with feather toys!

Acea Duke

Acea has been neutered, current on vaccinations and microchipped. Acea has been at the rescue for more than a year and qualifies for the “name your price” adoption fee during the month of June.

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

Last Week's Puzzle Answers

Sudoku Crossword

Duke is a friendly 6 yr old Boxer mix with such a handsome face, he’s a great dog, house trained, good manners, loves kids and is okay with dogs that are smaller than him. We don’t know how he’d react to a dog his size or larger. He loves to ride in the car. Duke was surrendered due to his owners both becoming disabled and

couldn’t give him the care and attention he needed���� Duke has developed an aggression towards cats so if you have cats, then he’s not the dog for you. But if you need a good trained house dog, then he’s exactly what you need. Duke has been neutered, current on vaccinations and microchipped, heartworm negative.

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:

"How simple a thing it seems to me that to know ourselves as we are, we must know our mothers' names."

Dropquote:

"I believe in the forgiveness of sin and the redemption of ignorance."

Second Harvest Food Bank Family Food Boxes

The Washington CountyJonesborough Library is happy to partner with Second Harvest Food Bank of Northeast Tennessee to distribute family food boxes. Now through the end of July,

you can visit Jonesborough Library or Gray Branch Library to pick up a box for your family on a weekly basis. Boxes contain a variety of canned and dry food goods for meals and snacks.

JOHNSON CITY

SATURDAYS

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

TUESDAY JUNE 27TH

Patriotic Planter Canvas Class 6:00pm at Into the Fire

WEDNESDAY JUNE 28TH

Sip and Sew: mushroom embroidery project 6:30pm at The Philosopher's House

THURSDAY JUNE 29TH

Book Bus Stop 10:00am at ETSU

Pediatrics Johnson City Clinic

5 Year Anniversary Celebration

4:00pm at Brewrista And The Bean

FRIDAY JUNE 30TH

Johnson City Love & Hiking

Date For Couples (Self-Guided)

7:00am at Willow Springs Park

Weekly YuGiOh Duel Night

6:00pm at CardFox

SATURDAY JULY 1ST

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 JULY 2ND

Hiking Date For Couples 7:00am at Willow Springs Park

THINGS TO DO THINGS TO DO

BRISTOL

THURSDAY JUNE 29TH

"Happy 4th" Canvas Class

6:00pm at Kil'n Time Studio

FRIDAY JUNE 30TH

Kenny DeForest 8:00pm at Blue Ridge Comedy Club

SATURDAY JULY 1ST

East Tennessee Independence Day Boat Party 11:00am at Lake View Dock

Board Game Night 5:00pm at Bristol Public Library

Kenny DeForest

8:00pm & 10:00pm at Blue Ridge Comedy Club

KINGSPORT

THURSDAY JUNE 29TH

Basic Photo Editing 6:00pm at Create Appalachia

FRIDAY JUNE 30TH

Final Friday Food Truck Rally

6:00pm at Public Parking Lot at Cherokee & Cumberland

SATURDAY JULY 1ST

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

Nature: Wolf Howling

10:00am at Bays Mountain Park & Planetarium

EJ Coffey Celebration of Life

6:00pm at High Voltage

JONESBOROUGH

TUESDAYS

Jonesborough Storytelling Guild

“Stories n’More” Show 7:00pm at The Intl. Storytelling Center

THURSDAY JUNE 29TH

Jonesborough Days Kickoff Dinner 2023 6:00pm at International Storytelling Center

SATURDAY JULY 1ST

Jonesborough Farmers Market 8:00am at Downtown Jonesborough

Jonesborough Days Parade 9:00am at Jonesborough Elementry School

Historic Jonesborough

Town Tour 1:00pm at Chester Inn State Historic Site

Old Jonesborough Cemetery

Tours 2:30pm at Heritage Alliance

ABINGDON, VA

WEDNESDAY JUNE 28TH

Bingo 5:00pm at Abingdon

Community Center

FRIDAY JUNE 3OTH

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

SUNDAY JULY 2ND

Bingo 5:00pm at Abingdon

Community Center

ERWIN

SATURDAY JULY 1ST

Welcome Home Veterans Parade

10:30am at Downtown Erwin

ELIZABETHTON

SATURDAY JULY 1ST

Independence Day Patriotic Pedal 4:00pm at Covered Bridge Park

Enjoy the 4th of July on a Budget

By [https://EzineArticles.com/ expert/Lisa_A_Mason/86287]

Lisa A Mason

The 4th of July is coming up soon. This is the day that the United States celebrates independence and families all over the country celebrate. If you are on a budget this year, it doesn’t mean you can’t still enjoy the great Independence Day fun. There are many great 4th of July activities for you to enjoy without having to spend a lot of money. Here are some ideas from our families to yours:

1. Enjoy a fireworks display: Most cities have free firework displays for the 4th of July. Find out when and where your local display will be held and then join in the great fun. Remember to show up early so your family can get a great spot.

2. Have a barbecue: What better way to enjoy this wonderful day than with great food and great friends? Invite your friends, family or neighbors over for a 4th of July barbecue. You can have every attending bring a side dish which makes it more affordable for everyone attending.

3. Enjoy a family picnic: Why not take your children and spouse

to the park or the lake and enjoy a great family picnic. Pack some sandwiches and juice and enjoy a day spending quality time together.

4. Family Fun Day: Take this time to enjoy games and activities with your children and be thankful for the time you have to spend together.

5. Visit friends: Plan time with your friends. You may get together and watch a fireworks display, hang out and watch 4th of July specials on TV or just reminisce and enjoy time together. There is no right or wrong way to spend the 4th of July. Just remember to be safe, especially if you are out on the road during this holiday season. Whatever you do this 4th of July, take time to commemorate this special day and remember why it is so important to our country. Have fun!

Article Source: [http:// EzineArticles.com/?Enjoythe-4th-of-July-on-aBudget&id=2472573] Enjoy the 4th of July on a Budget

Biker Events

sponsored by biker wear

Useless Facts:

1. If we ever find the end of the Pi number, according to some scientists, that’ll mean we live in the simulation.

2. Dying stars caused that space smells like a combination of diesel fuel and barbecue, according to astronauts.

3. The infinity sign has the name, and it’s lemniscate.

4. Space travel makes mice run in loops.

5. The Eiffel Tower can “grow” to 15 cm during the summer.

6. About 20% of Earth’s oxygen is produced by the Amazon rainforest.

7. A teaspoonful of neutron star would weigh 6 billion tons.

8. Hawaii moves 7.5cm closer to Alaska every year.

9. According to research, fans of classical music and those who love heavy metal have similar personalities.

10. The chills you get when you listen to music are caused by your brain releasing dopamine, a neurotransmitter that causes pleasure. The brain releases these same feel-good hormones during sex and eating too.

11. There’s music made especially for cats. It seems like cats develop their musical taste soon after they’re born.

12. Music, classical in particular, can help make plants grow faster.

Bike Night:

1. Wednesday – 19E Pit Stop

2. Wednesday – Jonesboro VFW – Dog Tags

3. Thursday - Quaker Steak & Lube

4. Friday - Tulips

Rallies:

1. 9th Annual Snake Pit Bike Rally in Shady Valley, TN June 9th to June 11th

2. Junebug Boogie Bike Rally June 15th – 18th Cookeville TN

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

4. 55th Dirt Drags Boozy Creek June 30th – July 2nd

ETSU Offering Career Paths to Those Who Love Nature

The world is increasingly acknowledging East Tennessee State University as an outdoor lover’s dream. Earlier this year, readers of Blue Ridge Outdoors magazine named the university the 2023 Top Adventure College. From Clemson University to Virginia Tech, ETSU bested a range of other schools throughout the South. Professors want current and potential students to know that jobs exist for those who enjoy spending time outdoors.

“ETSU has incredible programs that can help you find a career based on your love of nature and adventure,” said Dr. Janna Scarborough, dean of the Clemmer College of Education and Human Development where two

such programs are housed. One opportunity is the graduate certificate in nature-based therapy, a five-course program where students learn theory as well as programming.

“Grounded in ecocentrism, the graduate certificate in nature-based therapy is ideal for anyone interested in exploring the physical and psychological benefits of nature and may be especially applicable to those working in the social, behavioral and health sciences. The certificate offers immersive, comprehensive preparation for the development and implementation of unique nature-based services and programming,” said Dr. Bethany Novotny, an associate professor in the Department of Counseling and Human

Services. “Students have the opportunity to deeply explore the human-nature relationship, examine the tenets of individual and community healing, and develop practical skills for programming logistics, implementation, administration and risk management.”

ETSU also offers students the chance to study park and recreation management, a concentration that prepares students to plan, organize and lead a range of agencies and programs.

The program has proven popular with students, and alumni find jobs locally and throughout the United States.

Evan Alvarado, a David Crockett High School graduate, came to ETSU planning a career in nursing. But he took a class about

wildland firefighting and quickly changed his mind, and he hopes to one day land a job with the National Park Service, the Bureau of Land Management or a state park service.

“My park and recreation degree will be an excellent base for that, and I am so grateful to all the ETSU faculty and staff who have helped me along the way,” Alvarado said.

Students getting hands-on learning opportunities while pursuing their passion is at the core of ETSU’s approach to education.

“These programs, as well as many others, allow students to get the training and experience they need to land a job doing something they love,” said Scarborough. “And that includes a career in nature.”

4th of July Safety - Play Safe Around Fireworks

By [https://EzineArticles.com/ expert/Dave_Ference/346866]

Dave Ference

Fireworks originated in China during the Sung dynasty, from 960 to 1279, when a cook discovered that a mixture of sulphur, saltpetre, and charcoal was highly flammable.

Over the 4th of July holiday, most families will go to big community fireworks displays, which are performed by professionals that take many precautions to assure safety. A growing number of families will have their own backyard festivities with store-bought fireworks. Unfortunately, many will not take the safety precautions that the pros do.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission estimates that in 2004 (latest figures available) about 9,600 people were treated in hospital emergency rooms for fireworks injuries. Over half were burns and most involved the hands, eyes, and head. About half of the victims were under 15 years of age.

Small children are especially vulnerable because they are attracted to the bright colors of fireworks, but don’t understand the danger. This includes “safe” fireworks such as sparklers, which burn at between 1832º3632º Fahrenheit.

In 2005 fireworks caused an estimated 1,800 structure fires and 700 vehicle fires.

Following are some fireworks safety tips to keep kids safe this holiday and all summer.

o Only adults should handle fireworks. Tell children that they should leave the area immediately if their friends are using fireworks.

o Sparklers, generally considered safe for the young, burn at very

high temperatures and can easily ignite clothing.

o Older children should only be permitted to use fireworks under close adult supervision. Do not allow any running or horseplay.

o Discuss safety procedures with your children. Teach children “stop, drop and roll” if their clothes catch fire. Make sure they know how to call 9-1-1. Show them how to put out

o Never place your face or any other body part over fireworks (eye protection is recommended).

o Never try to re-ignite fireworks that malfunction. Throw them away.

o Keep a bucket of water nearby for emergencies and for pouring on fireworks that don’t go off.

o Never carry fireworks in your pocket.

o Fireworks and alcohol don’t mix. If you have consumed alcohol, do not light fireworks.

o Don’t experiment with homemade fireworks.

o Be considerate of your neighbors and stop your celebrations by 10:00 p.m.

o Clean up all the sticks, wires, tubes, etc. that are left around after your fireworks. Put them in a bucket of water and let them soak overnight to be sure they are out.

o Many pets are terrorized by fireworks. Be sure your dogs and cats are in an area they feel secure in. Don’t take them to community fireworks displays.

Even by following these tips, fireworks can still be quite dangerous. Use safe alternatives to fireworks such as Cap bombs, Sparklers, Party Poppers, Snappers, or Carbide cannons such as Big-Bang Cannons. Use common sense and keep yourself and your family safe this holiday season.

fireworks by using water or a fire extinguisher.

o Read labels and carefully follow directions. All fireworks must carry a warning label describing necessary safety precautions. If they don’t have the label, don’t use them.

o Never use fireworks indoors.

o Be sure spectators are out of range before lighting fireworks.

o Never aim or throw fireworks at another person.

o Only light fireworks on a smooth, flat surface away from the house, dry leaves, and flammable materials.

o Check for drought conditions in your area. During those times, fireworks are usually banned completely.

o Keep unused fireworks away from firing areas.

o Store fireworks in a dry, cool place. Check instructions for special storage directions.

o Observe local laws.

Dave Ference owns and operates Dave’s Cool Toys. He writes a monthly e-newsletter with information, tips, ideas safety, and fun things all about kids and toys. Subscribe to Dave’s Cool Toys e-Newsletter at http:// davescooltoys.com/mailinglist. html or visit http://www. davescooltoys.com

Article Source: [http:// EzineArticles.com/?4th-of-JulySafety---Play-Safe-AroundFireworks&id=2490317]

4th of July Safety - Play Safe

Around Fireworks

Social Sentiments

By Wendy Hayden socialsentiments @outlook.com socialsentiments.net

Back Your Brand

What makes your brand stand out above the crowd? How would you describe the unique purpose of your brand in less than 60 seconds?

The Social Sentiments brand stands for bringing dreams to life through the use of social media marketing. The passion behind the brand is an accidental discovery of a love of social media. When that passion was realized, a world of opportunity opened up to help people understand the power of social media.

A strong elevator pitch shows that you believe in your brand and are passionate about sharing

your expertise with people who can benefit from it. Your belief in your brand will shine when you keep your passion in mind. Always remind yourself of why you created your brand and why it is worthy of sharing with the world. Your pitch should reflect the reasons why you back your brand, what makes it stand out, and the good it can create for potential clients. The ability to back your brand in 60 seconds is crucial to selling your unique expertise. Bring your brand to life with your inspiring short story!

4th of July Fireworks and Your Dog: No Cause for Your Pet to Celebrate

By [https://EzineArticles.com/expert/ Amy_Morford/356399]Amy Morford

When people think of the 4th of July they think of fireworks. What people don’t think enough about, are their dogs. For a dog, fireworks can be very frightening. The dog does not understand what they are or why we are shooting them off. All they understand is that there is a lot of unpredictable, loud noise happening all around them. Some dogs may become very stressed by the excitement of the fireworks and may even run away. It is important to take important precautions to make sure that your dog stays safe during 4th of July festivities.

Keeping your dog safe and comfortable during your 4th of July celebration can be as easy as not bringing them along. For some dogs, just being in the secure setting of their own home is enough to offset the trauma of loud fireworks. For other dogs, location is irrelevant, the sound alone can cause such great anxiety that the dog may tremble and whine or even become nervously aggressive. Dogs such as these should be contained in a safe place, such as a familiar crate or an inner room that

might be quieter. The most severe of situations may require actually medicating your dog to alleviate the stress caused by the noise of the fireworks.

Not all dogs are disturbed by the noise of 4th of July fireworks. Even those that are not fazed however should be watched closely. Since large numbers of people tend to gather on Independence Day, there is a greater chance of your beloved pet getting loose and possibly running off in the confusion. Make sure that you secure your pet and alert your guests that you have a dog that you do not want to run away. If there are small fireworks or firecrackers on hand, take every precaution to make sure that your dog does not get too close and get singed or accidentally ingest any of the explosives. The 4th of July is certainly cause for celebration and fireworks are just part of it. Taking some simple precautions and looking after your dog can help insure that nothing ruins the festivities. Knowing your dog and how he reacts to loud noises, sudden movements and large groups of people can mean the difference between a terrified animal and

a relaxed pet. If you know that your pet doesn’t react well under these circumstances, be sure to provide the most comfortable, secure setting possible and if necessary, request medicine from your veterinarian. By the way, do you want to learn more about ending your dog’s fear of

fireworks [http://dogtrainingplace.net/ category/scared-dog-audio/]?

Article Source: [http://EzineArticles. com/?4th-of-July-Fireworks-andYour-Dog---No-Cause-for-Your-Pet-toCelebrate&id=7135895] 4th of July Fireworks and Your Dog - No Cause for Your Pet to Celebrate

I recently had a big argument with my closest friend. When you’ve been in one another’s lives as long as we have, it would be unrealistic to think there won’t be bumps in the road. Nonetheless, it breaks my heart when we have these disagreements over the years, because as much as it hurts to feel betrayed by those closest to you, it’s equally as painful to think you hurt them in return. When we finally simmered down enough to have a rational conversation and hash it out, (weeks later-this was no small tiff!) one thing that surprised me was when he kept repeating I tend to make “personal attacks” when we’re arguing. I had no idea what he was referring to; I racked my brains thinking of some insult I’d slung his way, or a name I’d called him. When he finally told me specifically what I’d said I was shocked! He was miffed by me calling out a situation in his life that I find unhealthy; for me, I was just using this scenario as evidence to support my feelings and said nothing derogatory, just stated the facts. I asked him to maybe consider it was hurtful because deep down he might know it’s true.

I think we all know that things hit the hardest when they’re close to home. We tend to personalize topics we’re insecure about and

Up or Out?

not think twice about actual insults with regards to things we’re confident in. For example, I know beyond doubt I am very smart and independent. So if someone were to call me stupid or a leech, I would laugh in their face and keep it moving. But if my Mom absent-mindedly tugs my shirt down because its riding up, I will burst into tears of fury, because I’m so insecure about my flabby midsection that in my mind it feels as though she’s calling me fat. (This is a very real situation that has happened. Recently.)

While listening to a fitness podcast yesterday, the host/ coach said, “I’m not trying to call you OUT, I’m calling you UP!” and I found that so fitting to these circumstances. It would be so beneficial to “consider the source” when reacting to things that feel like a personal insult. People who love and care about you aren’t trying to call you out, they’re trying to hold you accountable and lift you above the things holding you down. Nine times out of ten if something is striking a nerve with you, it’s because you’ve already rolled it around in your head enough times you know it needs to be changed. You’re not actually angry at them for mentioning it, you’re mad at yourself for not doing anything about it; its sometimes just easier to point the finger anywhere but back at yourself.

I find myself doing this a lot with regards to money as of

late. I’m obviously not sharing with the world the true depths of my financial struggles, but quite frankly it’s my greatest source of stress. Because of my line of work I don’t think people really grasp the full extent of just how dire the situation has been because it always looks like I’m dining out, having drinks and traveling. So anytime I post a beautiful vacation destinatio and mention how much I want to go, and someone says “just go! Stop making excuses and do it!” I have to physically contain myself from ripping their head off. These people think I’m just prioritizing work, or some other navigable roadblock, when in reality there are weeks I cannot afford my groceries. They don’t know, so I have to take a beat, take a breath and remind myself that was a completely innocent and actually encouraging remark. This person wants me to do things I enjoy- they’re not actively trying to twist the dagger that lives in my heart and my wallet.

On the flip side of this, I also need to improve my timing. No one is more aware of the things they’re doing wrong than the person doing them, and there’s a fine line between holding someone accountable and plain old badgering them. At a certain point I must let people make their own decisions and if they’re not ready to make the changes, no amount of confrontation from me is going to change that. It’s also probably not best to

by Kathie Scalf

bring up these issues during a heated argument. When you’re calling someone UP it should be presented with the love in which it’s intended and not through gritted teeth or raised voices. That definitely feels like you’re calling someone OUT and it’s not productive.

At the end of the day, its most important to hold ourselves to the same accountability we hold everyone else. Look inward at our own triggers and figure out why they’re such a hot button, then resolve it. And get in the habit of calling ourselves up instead of out; speaking to ourselves from a place of selflove and not self-hatred while being very real about where we thrive and where we could use some improvement.

XO - Kathie

ETSU’s Gray Fossil Site Has Banner Year

Looking for something fun and educational to do this summer?

Consider a stop in Gray.

Overseen by the Don Sundquist Center of Excellence in Paleontology at East Tennessee State University, the Gray Fossil Site and Museum has been a center of research and teaching for more than two decades, with scientists identifying dozens of extinct animal and plant species. And the last year has been an incredible one, with researchers discovering species ranging from large predators to tiny critters previously unknown to science. Digging is underway now for the new field season, and staff are currently busy excavating a Mastodon Pit.

“The Gray Fossil Site and Museum is a truly dynamic hub for science and education,” said David Moscato, science communication specialist. “Our researchers, staff and volunteers work so hard to preserve this incredible place, and I invite the public to come out and see for themselves all the exciting work happening here.”

Incredible year in review

Making headlines throughout the United States was the unearthing of an animal named Borophagus, a member of an extinct group commonly called “bone-crushing dogs.” So named for their powerful teeth and jaws, this is the first evidence of any animals in the dog family from the site.

Emily Bōgner, a doctoral student at the University of California, Berkeley, and alumna of ETSU’s paleontology master’s program, and Dr. Joshua Samuels, associate professor in the ETSU Department of Geosciences and curator at the Gray Fossil Site and Museum, conducted the research, published in the “Journal of Paleontology.”

“The identification of a bonecrushing dog adds to the list of terrestrial apex predators at the Gray Fossil Site, the other being a saber-tooth cat,” said Bōgner. “With two large predators on land and alligators in the water, herbivores at the site would have had to be on high alert.”

Comparing this single limb bone with those of a wide range of modern and fossil dogs allowed the researchers to predict the size of this extinct dog. Estimated to have weighed between 115 and160 pounds, the Borophagus was similar in size to the largest living wolves.

The ancient forest of Gray also represents a new habitat for these bone-crushing dogs, which more commonly inhabited grasslands. But it is far from the site’s only big news.

Researchers also identified an extinct species of painted turtle, one that is entirely new to science and unique to Northeast Tennessee. Scientists named it Chrysemys corniculata, or the “horned painted turtle.” The name refers to a conspicuous pair of pointy projections on the front edge of the shell.

This research was published in the “Zoological Journal of the Linnean Society” by Dr. Steven Jasinski, professor at the Harrisburg University

of Science and Technology and alumnus of ETSU’s paleontology master’s program.

Add to the list, too, fossil moles. A recent tudy published in “Palaeontologia Electronica” is the first to analyze the fossil moles of the Gray Site. By comparing fossil bones and teeth with those of other living and extinct mole species, the researchers noted four different types of extinct moles, including two species that are entirely new to science: one that dug in the dirt and one that swam in the ancient pond.

Samuels and Danielle Oberg, a doctoral student at the University of Arkansas and graduate of ETSU’s paleontology graduate program, conducted the research. ETSU, named the 2023 Top Adventure College, and the Appalachian Highlands are an outdoor enthusiast’s dream.

Learn more about the site at etmnh.org

Dungeons and Dragons: Honor Among Thieves

I have never in my life played the game Dungeons and Dragons, but when I saw the trailer for the film I was intrigued. So when the film, "Dungeons and Dragons: Honor Among Thieves" hit theaters I was ready to see this fantasy/heist adventure starring Chris Pine. The film begins by introducing us to Edgin Darvis (Pine), who is a bard ( characters capable of combat, and use their artistic talents to induce magical effects, even though this bard uses no magic), and a member of the Harpers, an order of peacekeepers. Edgin's time as a peacekeeper ends when his wife is killed by disciples of the Red Wizard, of whom he had previously arrested. As a result of his wife's murder, he turns to his friend Holga Kilgore (Michelle Rodriguez), a barbarian, who helps raise his daughter Kira (Chloe Coleman). The duo turn to a life of thievery and team with amateur sorcerer Simon Aumar (Justice Smith), rogue Forge Fitzwilliam (Hugh Grant), and the mysterious acquaintance Sofina(Daisy Head). When the group attempts to rob a Harper stronghold, things go terribly bad and Edgin and Holga are captured. After being held in prison for two years the duo escape to the city/ state of Neverwinter where they discover their former partner and friend Froge and become Lord of

Pop Life

By Ken Silvers

theloaferonlineprint @gmail.com

the city/state. While he has been the leader of Neverwinter, Forge has been taking care of Kira, who has been told her father abandoned her. When Edgin finally sees his daughter again, she rejects him due to the lies of Forge. Edgin and Holga also discover Sofina is actually a Red Wizard (the really bad guys), and is preparing to execute the duo, buy the attempt fails, and Edgin and Holga plan on robbing Forge's vault and rescue Kira.The duo plan on the rescue and theft during the High Sun Games, a gladiatorial event that had once been banned but were resurrected by the greedy Forge. However, the duo need help in their efforts, and once again team with Simon and add Doric (Sophia Lillis), a tiefling druid (a mix of human and "something else" with special shapeshifting powers). The group then attempt to get a magic relic known as "The Helm of Disjunction" from a paladin( a knight) named Xenk Yandar (RegeJean Page) who fled his country after the Red Wizards turned his people into an undead army. When the group meets Xenk, he agrees to help only if Edgin agrees to turn over any bounty the group gets to the people. Xenk guides the group through the Underdark (a subterranean group of caverns and tunnels) to find the Helm of which he no longer possesses. The group finds the Helm, but are attacked by a group of assassins sent by Sofina, and after fighting the bad guys, run afoul of an overweight dragon with a nasty attitude. The group manages to escape the dragon and assassins, and use the retrieved Helm to enter Forge's vault during the games. However, the group is captured and are forced to enter the games, minus Xenk, who left the group after they retrieved the Helm. The group manage to survive the games thanks to some magic and clever maneuvers, and escape via a boat but turn back when they see the city is being visabilly attacked by Sofina.

The group battle the powerful Sofina, but emerge victorious, and the real Lord of Neverwinter returns and Forge gets his comeuppance. As I mentioned earlier, I have no knowledge of the world of Dungeons and Dragons, so all of the aforementioned was new to me and enjoyable.I felt vibes of "The Lord of the Rings" and "Harry Potter", so I was having a blast in the theater. The cast was wonderful, led by the perfectly cast Pine, whose wit and humor are put to perfect use in the film. I loved all of his wisecracks and banter with his co-stars, especially

those with Page. The film is filled with action and wonderful special effects, even though I wish more dragons had been in the film, but I guess that's nitpicking. For someone who had no clue about the subject matter, other than it was fantasy based, I had a blast watchking "Dungeons and Dragons: Honor Among Thieves", and if you are so inclined I'm sure you will too. Now playing in theaters. (Rated PG-13)

Bristol

BRISTOL TN/VA

PARAMOUNT

Jul 2 Ozark Mtn Daredevils

Jul 8 The Platters with The Drifters

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 RoadTribute to Elton John

Aug 15 Jimmie Vaughan

Sept 13 Ben Folds

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

Oct 14 Lady SupremeTribute to Diana Ross

Nov 10 Kathy Mattea

Nov 11 Chi-Town Transit AuthorityTribute to Chicago

Nov 19 Joan Osborne

CAMEO THEATER

Jul 2 Firehouse with Trixster Acoustic

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

Jul 16 Stryper

Jul 17 Tommy Emmanuel

Aug 17 Foghat

Nov 11 Bellamy Brothers

Dec 2 The Wizards of Winter

BRISTOL RHYTHM & ROOTS REUNION

Sep 8-10 Nickel Creek, Margo Price, Bruce Hornsby and the Noisemakers, Watchhouse, The Mavericks, 49 Winchester, Larkin Poe, Marty Stuart and his Fabulous Superlatives and more

JOHNSON CITY

JOHNSON CITY TN

FREEDOM HALL

Nov 1 Foreigner

Dec 1 Keith Anderson

Dec 2 Theory of a Dead Man and Skillet

MARTIN CENTER FOR THE ARTS

Sep 8 The Black Jacket Symphony: Saturday Night Fever

Sep 20 Daniel Tosh

CONCERT SCHEDULE CONCERT SCHEDULE

KINGSPORT

KINGSPORT TN

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

GRAY

GRAY TN

APPALACHIAN FAIRGROUNDS

Aug 21 Zach Williams

Aug 22 Joe Nichols

Aug 23 Scotty McCreery

Aug 24 Travis Denning and Chayce Beckham

Aug 25 Josh Turner

Aug 26 Elle King

GREENVILLE

Aug 31 Hardy

Sep 14 Parker McCollum

Sep 28 Jon Pardi

Dec 1 & 3 Nate Bargatze

KNOXVILLE CIVIC AUDITORIUM:

Sep 24 Joy Koy

Sep 29 Crowder

BIJOU THEATRE

Jul 22 Crash Test Dummies

Aug 11 /12 The Steeldrivers

Aug 23 Devon Allman & Donavon Frankenreiter

Aug 25 The War and The Treaty

Aug 4 The Wallflowers

Oct 7 Henry Cho

Nashville

NASHVILLE TN

Jul 24 Greta Van Fleet

Jul 27 The Chicks

Jul 28 50 Cent

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

NISSAN STADIUM

Jul 15 Beyonce

Jul 22 Ed Sheeran

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

BROOKLYN BOWL

NISWONGER PERFORMING ARTS CENTER

Jul 14 Dugger Band

Knoxville

GREENVILLE TN KNOXVILLE TN

TENNESSEE THEATRE

Jul 15 1964: The Tribute

Jul 25 ZZ Top

Aug 15 Lyle Lovett and His Large Band

Aug 16 Cinderella’s Tom Keifer Band

Aug 18 Kansas

Aug 31 Gladys Knight

Sep 26 Chicago

Sep 28 Tanya Tucker

Oct 26 Lewis Black

THOMPSON BOWLING ARENA

Jul 15 Thomas Rhett

Jul 29 The Chicks

Sept 12 Guns n Roses

Sep 22 Koe Wetzel

Sep 27 Nickelback with Brantley Gilbert & Josh Ross

Oct 6 Elevation Worship & Steven Furtick

Oct 16 Shania Twain

Nov 3 Tool

Nov 24 Kiss: End of the Road Tour

Dec 8 Lauren Daigle

KNOXVILLE CIVIC COLISEUM

Aug 24 Billy Strings

RYMAN AUDITORIUM

Jul 6 Sam Bush

Jul 11 The Mountain Goats

Jul 13 Rhonda Vincent

Jul 21 Ed Sheeran

Jul 25 & 26 Ryan Adams and The Cardinals

Jul 27 Ricky Skaggs

Jul 28 America

Jul 30 Melissa Etheridge

Aug 9 The Turtles, Gary Puckett and the Union Gap, The Cowsills

Aug 14 Counting Crows

Aug 7 Sara Evans

Aug 19 Kansas

Aug 29 & 30 LeAnn Morgan

Sep 17 Squeeze and the Psychedelic Furs (Grand Ole Opry)

Sep 24 Ringo Starr and his All Starr Band

Sep 28 Switchfoot

Sep 29 & 30 Little Feat

ASCEND AMPHITHEATER

Jul 18 Louis Tomlinson

Jul 19 Yungblud

Jul 20 Boy George & Culture Club with Howard Jones And Berlin

Aug 18 3 Doors Down

Aug 27 Ghost

Sep 12 /13 Artic Monkeys

BRIDGESTONE ARENA

Jul 3 Matchbox Twenty and The Wallflowers (new date)

Jul 16 Blink 182

Jul 9 The Struts

Jul 15 King’s X

Jul 25 Ann Wilson & Tripsitter

Aug 25 The Dirty Gov’nahs

GEODIS PARK

Aug 26 Guns n Roses

Sep 22 Pink with Brandi Carlile & Grouplove

BROWN COUNTY MUSIC CENTER

Jul 22 Randy Travis

Jul 25 Melissa Etheridge

Jul 30 Ann Wilson and Tripsitter

Aug 2 Boz Scaggs

Aug 18 Steve Earle

Aug 19 Don McLean

Aug 20 Jimmie Vaughn and the Tilt-A-Whirl Band

NASHVILLE MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM

Oct 10 Three Days Grace and Chevelle

Oct 26 -28 Hardy with Lainey Wilson

Beech Mountain

BEECH MOUNTAIN NC

BEECH MTN SUMMER SERIES:

Jul 30 My Morning Jacket

Hampton va

HAMPTON VA

HAMPTON COLISEUM

Dec 8 & 9 Goosemas

The Motivation to Clean

Let’s get one thing straight. I’m not that messy of a person. I’m not even all that disorganized. However, I do tend to put off getting my house ready for company till the very last minute, or I randomly will pick a day to do it without putting much thought into it. Case in point, this weekend I have some guests coming over, and for weeks I’ve been thinking that giving my game room a little tidy over is a thing I needed to do. There isn’t anything bad strewn about the place, I don’t have crumpled fast food papers loitering anywhere. It’s more that thing of “Oh, the coffee table looks a bit messy, I need to take care of that.” I’ll note the thought and then a few days or maybe a week or so will go by before I do anything about it. I’ll pass by the coffee table as I’m about to head out the door or something, and then I’ll stop and decide “The time is now” and I’ll clean it up.

The most haphazard when it comes to organization is my movie shelf. As you might imagine I have a rather large collection of physical

media, and it often grows a little at least every other month. I have a bad tendency to sit the new discs on top of the filed away discs on the shelf, then weeks will go by before I finally stop and go “Oh, I need to file those away.” This is always, most, usually, because it’s the day before I know company is coming over and nine times out of ten, someone wants to look over the movie library.

If the factor of how unkempt something is determines the mess, then my home office is the biggest offender in my home. I don’t recall offhand who said it, but there’s some quote about “A clean desk is the sign of an unproductive person, a messy desk is the sign of hard work.” Using this metric, right now my desk makes it look like I’m the most productive human being alive.

There are crumpled papers, two sets of Post-it note pads, two months' worth of correspondence

from a friend in South Carolina, a tube of chapstick, an almost empty bottle of sunscreen, a reminder for a dermatologist appointment I had a month ago, and notes from rehearsal for the play I directed that closed over a month ago, so you can imagine how long those have been here. There’s also an empty coffee mug with residue at the bottom which indicates it once had coffee in it. How long has this mug been here? I don’t know, it may be that I need to run a carbon test on it to determine its age. It is Christmas themed so that’s a bit disconcerting. I think a home desk becomes something of a “catch-all” for a lot of people. I’m not gonna judge myself because a coffee cup from Christmas is still hanging around here. I must have been doing something important that day.

The one thing I am super lazy about doing with cleaning is

dusting. The work areas of my desk, the main part? Not dusty. The top area—my desk has storage that hangs over the pain work area—where I keep some Funko figures and other assorted things. That is almost always dusty. You’d think as someone who has allergies bad I’d be more on it, but if I’m keeping sixmonth cold coffee mugs on my desk, dusting is the last thing on my mind.

But as I type this it’s starting to click with me how bad it is and how much a good dusting would help. So now the motivation has been planted in my head and I bet as soon as I finish this I’m going to grab the duster and give the top a going over. Then we will repeat this cycle in six months. I wonder if I have any summer-themed mugs I can leave on my desk for that future cleaning session? See you next week.

By Andy Ross theloaferonlineprint @gmail.com