Page 2, The Loafer • January 8, 2013
January 8, 2013 • The Loafer, Page 3
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Volume 27 Issue #5
<4C()*!'434*<)(2%3M*L.(*4?*7%;'3*!'434;).E'8*-4)G& !"#$%&'()*+*,%$$*-%$$%./&*0*12%34)*+*5.62%*-%$$%./&*0*7.84"3*9*:(&%;6*+*<')%&38*7(.='*0*>?@=(*A.6.;()*+*7"=%*B.3( <4C()*:(&%;6*+*,%$$*A.8*0*D).E'%=*F)3&*:%)(=34)*+*:46*5E)%6G$(*0*!'434;).E'8*+*A.)G*A.)H"(33( <463)%#"3%6;*53.??*+*I%/*J($$8K*F628*L4&&K*J(6*5%$C()&K*A.)G*A.)H"(33(K*!.3*,"&&.)2 F2C()3%&%6;*+*:.C(*<.)3()K*FG(8*J%6=.%2K*7%&.*7846&K*B.#%3'.*7./#()3K*B())8*!.33()&46 Published by Creative Publishing, Inc., P.O. Box 3596, Johnson City, TN 37602 !'46(M*NOPQORP+NPON*SFT*+*NOPQORP+NPUV www.theloaferonline.com • info@theloaferonline.com e-mail: editorial@theloaferonline.com (editorial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
Page 4, The Loafer • January 8, 2013
The 28th Annual Tri Cities Bridal Show January 13th, 1-6 pm
It is time for the 28th Annual Tri Cities Bridal Show at the D.P. Culp Center at ETSU in Johnson City! Here we are, more than 28 !"#$%& %'()"& *+$& ,'$%-& %.*/& #(0& our focus, as always, is on our brides and providing an outstanding collection of true wedding professionals that will always be there to take care of their needs. There will be many door prizes and amazing deals from the exhibitors PLUS we will also be presenting TWO LUCKY COU‐ PLES with honeymoon dream cruises from Cruise Planners and Summit Travel at the end of the show! In ad0'-'*(1&2*$&-."&,'$%-&-'3"& ever, 10 Lucky Brides will roll the Jumbo Dice
for a chance to win a $35,000.00 New Car from Grindstaff Cars, and a $4500.00 Wedding Package from Bel Rae Ballroom. It is the mission of all our great vendors to assist brides and grooms
in creating the wedding of their dreams and desires. There will be mannequin models throughout the show displaying the latest ladies and men’s wedding day fashions. Continuing our new
tradition, we will have three, runway style fashion shows throughout the day. Weddings are one of the most celebrated and sometimes confusing rites of humanity. They are events that inspire hopeful dreams but also require a great deal of planning and thought. Our culture places much emphasis on weddings and the phrase that you hear a lot, is the ability to provide the ever elusive “Dream Wedding”. The simple reality is that your wedding should be the wedding of your own dreams, not those conjured up by other people trying to change your concept of what your wedding should be. When choosing the vendors that will be assisting you with your wedding, make sure that they are willing to work with you to achieve your ideas and goals. That is what makes YOUR wedding unique. We have a phrase that describes the suppliers that just do the same thing, over and over, and concentrate on making it faster, cheaper and easier on them; we call those, “McWed-
0'(4%56&&7*+&#(0&!*+$&,'#()8&#$"& unique people, and your wed0'(4&%.*+90&$",9")-&!*+$&:"$%*(al “Love Story”. Avoid the people that claim to “do it all for you”, or try to provide “only their team” for all your needs, choose from the best, they will be at the 28th Annual Tri Cities Bridal Show. We .#;"& #%%"3<9"0& *(9!& -."& ,'("%-& professional suppliers to meet you, develop some ideas, simplify your planning process and most importantly create lasting relationships and friendships. Remember, the best people book far in advance (some as much as 2 years) so it is important to reserve your wedding planner, venue, entertainment, photographer, caterer and others as early as possible! This show is the oldest and largest wedding event produced in the Tri Cities of TN/ =>& #(0& /"& .*:"& -.#-& !*+& ,'(0& just those “right connections” to make your wedding exactly what you want it to be! Advanced tickets are available at www.tricitiesbridalshow. com for $8.00 or $10.00 at the Continued on page 5
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door, pre-registered brides get in free! Exhibitors Include: Celebrate Rentals, The Wedding Boss, Cruise Planners, Summit Travel, DJ Alan Dodson, DJ Robbie Britton, A Sharp Entertainment, Rae of Light Photography Works,Misty’s Florist, Pratt’s Catering,Men’s Wearhouse (MW Tux), Bel Rae Ballroom, The Venue at King Center, Maple Lane Farm, Jean Moree Photography, Lalonde’s Bridal Boutique, Studio Blue Ridge, Simplicity Gourmet, BC Spa, Cable Photography, Princess Diaries, Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites-Bristol, TN, Team Beach Body Coaches, Tracy’s Treats, Harpstrings, Slumber Parties by Rachel, Meadowview Convention Center, Jim Goodwin Photography, Advanced Photography,Mr. Picture Booth, La Petite Sweets,A Thousand Words Photography, ARAMARK
Catering, TN/VA Bridal Gifts, Rejuva Laser Skin Center, Rodan & Fields, Towncraft Marketing, Bella Bridal Network, Herbert Lee Jones Photography, Mary Kay, 2 Flowers Photography, Cake Art,
Blue Ridge Studios, Video Wedding Invitation, Grindstaff Cars There will be many other door prizes and drawings! The TriCities Bridal show is produced by An Unforgettable Event, Inc.
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Drum Circles Combining Elements of Music and Rhythm begins January 13th
Drum circles are a great opportunity for sound play for people of all ages. Combining the enlivening elements of music, rhythm, sound and motion, this format helps create an environment of shared efforts as well as a sense of community and
well being. Research supports drum circles for stress relief, anxiety reduction, team building and organizational development, while many individuals simply say it is a profound way to communicate with self and others. It is also fun! In the spirit of cooperation, community building and promoting harmony, Atlantis hosts Drum Circle Play Shops on Sunday, January 13th and Sunday January 27th at 2:30 pm. Each session will be 90 minutes and will include brief education about the drum, taught hand rhythms and playing technique, free play and facilitated play for $5 per person. Particpants are invited to bring an instrument or share one of the many provided; any and all with interest are encouraged to participate no matter their skill level. Drum circle facilitator is Susan Lachmann, whose many and varied works in arts and education are known throughout the region. For more information, please call Atlantis @ 423-926-8884.
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Civic Chorale Auditions for Spring 2013 January 17th
short (about 15 minutes), and involve singing a familiar piece, sight reading, and some simple vocal exercises to check pitch and dynamic range, control of vibrato and general vocal production. For further information about the Chorale or the audition process, visit the Chorale’s web site (www. thecivicchorale.org) or contact the conductor as indicated above.
The Civic Chorale, the region’s leading independent auditioned choir, will hold auditions for new members on Thursday, January 17, in the choir room of Munsey Memorial United Methodist Church, at the corner of Roan and Market Streets in Johnson City, where the group rehearses. The Chorale is involved with three concerts in spring, 2013: On March 16, the Chorale sings with the Symphony of the Mountains and reknowned tenor soloist Carl Tanner in a program of operatic music. On April 14, the Chorale presents our own concert, including tunes from Broadway, choral jazz, folk songs, and a composition by regional composer Dr. Lewis Songer. On May 4, the Chorale once again joins with Symphony of the Mountains in presenting Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9. The Chorale anticipates 3-4 open positions each in the alto, tenor, and bass sections, and 1-2 openings in the soprano section. Ideal candidates are singers with good sight reading skills who love choral music. Interested singers should contact the conductor, David Hendricksen at (423) 638-0409 or by email at <conductordavid@embarqmail.com> in order to schedule an audition appointment time for January 17. Auditions are private and
Page 8, The Loafer • January 8, 2013
Arts Depot Showcasing Four Area Artists
The Arts Depot is featuring four area artists in the Member’s Showcase Gallery. Artists displaying their works are Audrey Bevins, Brianna Casey and Debra Casey all of Abingdon, VA, and Lisa May, of Chilhowie VA, This exhibit will continue through February 23, 2013. Audrey Bevins graduated from Virginia Intermont College in 2012 earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Photography and Digital Imaging. She was raised on her family farm in Abingdon, VA and throughout her childhood she dreamed of “going to the Grand Canyon and riding a mule!” In the spring of 2011 she made that dream come true while on
a family vacation to northern Arizona. Despite six inches of snow, she and a friend rode from the North Rim down into the canyon earning a “Grand Canyon Master Muleteer” )"$-',')#-"?& @"$& "A:"$-'%"& '(& the saddle must have been apparent because the canyon “wrangler” encouraged her to apply for a job. She did, and in March of 2012 she was hired as a “Muleteer”. Audrey was able to combine her love on riding and her training in photography by working
-."& ,';"B3*(-.& season as a Trail Photographer and Trail Guide handing out those “Muleteer” )"$-',')#-"%& ."$%"92?& Audrey says that her current photographic exhibit is “the beginning of a long series that will document my journey working with the Master Muleteers.” Mother & Daughter, Debra and Briana Casey of Abingdon, VA will each present their own, unique exhibit. Debra Casey was born in South Korea, came to live in Southwest Virginia when she was two years old, and has lived in Abingdon for the past ,'2-""(& !"#$%?& C."& "#$("0& #& Graphic Design degree from Virginia Intermont College. Debra enjoys working in many media including acrylic, ink, graphite and woodcarving and says there '%& D(*& %:")',')& -."3"& 2*$& -.'%& exhibit, “I just want to share some of the simple things in life, my favorite things in life with viewers.” These days Debora creates art “for the Continued on page 9
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pure fun of it” and to help her “de-stress” from her hectic schedule as full time mom and self admitted “computer geek” web programmer at CGI Federal in Lebanon, VA. Brianna Casey is a Junior at Abingdon High School. She works primarily in pencil and acrylic and describes the theme of her show as “People and Social Effects on Life.” Brianna stays busy with her schoolwork and enjoys participating in Indoor Winter track and Spring Track and works part-time as a cashier at Abingdon’s Food City. Brianna has been an active volunteer and member of the Depot Artists Association for many years, is a member of the National Art Honors Society and serves as President of the Art Portfolio Club.
Lisa May gives in to the )9').8&-*&%#!1&DEF;"&#9/#!%&<""(& interested in art” and adds, “I guess that is how it truly is for all of us who have a need -*& ,'(0& /#!%& -*& <"& )$"#-';"???? 3!&,'$%-&%"-&*2&*'9&:#'(-%&)#3"& to me at the age of 11 from my maternal Grandmother. I grew up surrounded by creative women – and men,
Hungry Mother Park Art and Craft Festival, the Emory and Henry College Craft show, Chilhowie’s Apple Festival, Abingdon’s Coomes Center Christmas Crafts Show, and the VA Highlands Festival’s Fine Art Exhibit. Lisa’s mixed media exhibit is inspired by life on her farm in Chilhowie, VA where she resides with a myriad of both two and four legged family members. She is part-time Administrative Assistant at the Arts Depot. The gallery and artists studios are open Thursday, Friday and Saturday, January through March 11-3 pm. There is no admission charge. For further information, (276) 628-9091, or e-mail at abingdonartsdepot@ relatives who built houses eva.org or visit www. and churches, women who abingdonartsdepot.org. sewed and painted, played instruments, sang, or danced. It brings me great satisfaction to create something that makes people laugh, or enjoy their living environment better.” In addition to the Arts Depot, Lisa has displayed and sold her painted wares at several shows including the
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Morley The Golden Eagle of Grandfather Mountain
Morely the Golden Eagle passed away of natural causes sometime during the night on January 1. He was discovered in his enclosure January 2. The oldest animal in the Grandfather Mountain Animal Habitats at around 35 years old, Morely came to the Mountain in 1984. He was a native of the western United States before being injured by a gunshot. The wound left him unable to fully extend one of his wings, rendering him incapable of hunting and surviving in the wild. He was known for amusing trainers with his modesty. He loved taking baths and when Habitats Staff walked by during one of his daily cleanings, he would freeze and glare as if he was caught naked. Baths were so important to Morely that he would climb into his water bowl when his pond was frozen in the winter months. Morely lived with several fellow eagles during his time
at Grandfather Mountain, but was the last of his kind in the Habitats when he passed away. The Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation is currently in the fundraising stage of an effort to renovate the eagle enclosure at Grandfather Mountain. The upcoming renovations will completely enclose the habitat, allowing the Mountain -*&#)G+'$"&"#49"%&-.#-&#$"&:#$-'#99!&,9'4.-"0& and protecting the inhabitants from wild animals.
January 8, 2013 • The Loafer, Page 11
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Student Art Brightens the New Year in Downtown Bristol
The Arts and Entertainment District is hosting the 2nd Annual Student Art Display in Downtown Bristol. In an effort to “Cultivate Bristol’s Creativity,” we have invited the local schools to help us beautify our community by providing art to decorate the front windows of the former Hayes Furniture Building on State Street. Each school that participates will have a month-long display period to present their students’ art in the space. Our fourth student gallery of art went up on January 3, showcasing vibrant charcoal and pastel drawings from 3rd and 4th grade students
at Highland View and Stonewall Jackson Elementary Schools. Barbara Niemczak of Artistic Excellence and Art in Public Places is excited to see the downtown highlighting local children in the arts: “Encouraging and complimenting student art through an exhibit is important in that it helps the young people develop a positive self-image and shows them that their talent and creativity matter.”
Artwork by Highland View and Stonewall Jackson Elementary School students will be on display until January 31, 2013. For more information, :9"#%"& )*(-#)-& H"(8& Rodgers at Believe in Bristol on 276-6449700, rrodgers@believeinbristol.org, or visit the website at www.believeinbristol. org.
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Party on the Moon- the “Nation’s Number One Party Band” Kingsport Chamber Annual Dinner February 1st
They’ve played for President Barack Obama’s Inaugural…They’ve played for Eli Manning’s Wedding…They’ve played for Donald Trump’s New Year’s Eve Party for the last four consecutive years… They’ve played each of the last two years for your Kingsport Chamber of Commerce Annual Dinner…and now the Number One Party Band in the Nation is back to play again for your Kingsport Chamber 66th Annual Dinner! “Kingsport’s Social Event of the Year” will take place Friday, Feb. 1, 2013, at the MeadowView Marriott Conference Resort & Convention Center, Kingsport. The evening will begin with a reception at 6 p.m. followed by the dinner and program at 7 p.m. The public is invited to attend. Tickets are $100 and can be purchased at your Kingsport Chamber (400 Clinch,'"90& C-$""-1& ("A-& -*& I**0& J'-!& in downtown Kingsport) or by calling (423) 392-8800. Last year, more than 1,700 individuals attended the popular affair,
which remains the largest Chamber annual dinner in the nation. Those interested in attending are encouraged to purchase their tickets as soon as possible. As a special offer, this year’s Kingsport Chamber Annual Dinner ticket will also be good as a complimentary ticket to any Symphony of the Mountains Orchestra concert during the 2013 season. “The Kingsport Chamber Annual Dinner is such a unique and one-of-a-kind affair and really helps to set Kingsport apart,” said Etta Clark, 2012 Kingsport Chamber chair and vice president of communications and public affairs for Eastman Chemical Com-
pany. “There’s a simple reason Party on the Moon is the nation’s favorite party band – they are the best! Everyone will be thrilled with another great performance.” In addition to the main entertainment, Clark will turn the Kingsport Chamber gavel over to 2013 Kingsport Chamber Board of Directors chair Monty McLaurin, CEO of Indian Path Medical Center. The Kingsport Chamber will also celebrate its numerous accomplishments achieved in 2012 and look ahead to 2013. “We are certainly most proud of our Kingsport Chamber Annual Dinner. This very popular event would not reach such an excellent level of success if it were not for the many corporate sponsors and Kingsport Chamber members who attend and support it each year. We remain most grateful for their enormous support of their Kingsport Chamber and look forward to celebrating another great night with them on February 1.” The Kingsport Chamber will also present its very prestigious Kingsport Chamber Lifetime Member Award, an accolade that honors an individual for a lifetime of outstanding service to the Kingsport community. “Your Kingsport Chamber Annual Dinner is also a fun night to be with friends and colleagues, /"#$& !*+$& ,'("%-& H"0& J#$:"-& #-tire, enjoy a great meal and be enthralled by fabulous entertainment,” Cates added. “This event is always unforgettable and this year promises to be even better!”
66th
Annual
Dinner
Kingsport’s Social Event of the Year!
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Stephen Babcock
Acoustic Coffeehouse January 16th
Born and raised in New Hartford, New York, now residing in Albany, Stephen began playing guitar at the age of 15 after hearing John Mayer’s “Room For Squares.” Since then, he has continued to craft his skills as a singer and songwriter, recording and performing a catalog of original music. Originally beginning his musical career playing drums, Stephen’s transition to a songwriter has weaved a percussive element into his guitar playing and singing. Either with 3"-')+9*+%9!& ,'(4"$& picked grooves on songs such as Not Worried and Elizabeth, or dynamic rhythm pieces heard in “Fallin” and “Better in Time,” Stephen’s music has proved to satisfy every type of environment. Since beginning humbly as a solo act around Central New York, Ste:."(& .#%& %'()"& ,'("9!& -+("0& -."&
performance and arrangement of his songs to compliment a full band of Bass, Drums, and Saxophone. During a show, while giving his band mates a few minutes to rest, Stephen utilizes the middle of the set for solo acoustic performances and medleys. This
gives the audience a chance to hear a variety of different original songs, covers, and interpolations that are different and unique to each show. K'-.& '(,9+"()es ranging from: John Mayer, Brett Dennen and Jack Johnson, to Otis Redding, Jamie Cullum, Ben Iver, and Damien Rice, Stephen is cur$"(-9!& ,'('%.'(4& the recording of .'%& ,'$%-& #9<+31& comprised of new songs, and those re-recorded from .'%& ,'$%-& LM& D>$$';als & Departures.” Stephen’s debut album was recorded at Syracuse University entitled “Dreams, Schemes, & Childhood Memories” was released at the end of Spring 2011. See his website for new song postings, live footage, free downloads, and tour dates. www.stephenbabcockmusic. com.
Page 14, The Loafer • January 8, 2013
Henderson & Little & Folk Soul Revival on Song of the Mountains January 12th
Song of the Mountains, the award winning public television concert series based at the Lincoln Theatre in Marion, Virginia announces the start of their ninth season of tapings on Saturday, January 12, 2013. “Our show is more popular than ever”, says Tim White the show’s executive coordinator and host. “Our 2013 lineup is proving to be exceptional and all of us with Song of the Mountains are proud -*& :$*0+)"& -.'%& ,'("& )*()"$-& %"ries for the world to experience on public television from the historic Lincoln Theatre in Marion, ='$4'('#65& N."& ,'$%-& )*()"$-& 2*$& 2013 will feature fan favorites Wayne Henderson and Jeff Little. This talented duo has appeared on Song of the Mountains several times in the past and showcase their extraordinary mix of acoustic guitar picking and powerful piano playing. Also on the concert January 12th will be Bristol, TN-VA based Folk Soul Revival. Folk Soul Revival is a harmony drenched, boot stomping, rowdy, rootsy Americana band from the Appalachian mountain region of
Virginia/Tennessee. Folk Soul Revival has just released their third album ‘Prompting The Dapperness.’The completely fan funded release returns to the formula that has continued to make the band so endearing- strong songwriting, sing along melodies, impassioned vocals and most of all honest music that resonates deep within the listener. There’s a reason the band has such a loyal fan base (‘The Congregation’) and garners accolades wherever they travel. In 2011, the Virginia Tourism Board awarded FSR the Virginia Band of the Year and in 2012, and readers of Virginia Living Magazine named the band among the Top Three bands in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Also on the concert on January 12th old time music will be featured also with two dynamic bands, the Tune Town Old Time Band and the Empty Bottle String Band. These two bands promise to entertain you with some music that will surely make you want Continued on page 15
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to move your feet! Gravel Road Acoustic Trio will complete this ,'("& 9'("+:& *2& -#9"(-& 2*$& C*(4& *2& the Mountains on January 12th. Gravel Road Acoustic Trio, based in Charleston, South Carolina, is made up of three multi-talented musicians who perform in a variety of venues in the southeast. The group’s varied musical backgrounds have converged into a style that is unique and innovative in the acoustic music world. Before forming Gravel Road, band members enjoyed touring individually with acts like The Osborne Brothers, Blake Shelton, Pam Tillis, and Whisperin’ Bill Anderson. Their different backgrounds bring together a unique and exciting sound that keeps audiences wanting more. Members are Derek Deakins, guitar #(0& ;*)#9%1& O'%#& P"#Q'(%1& ,'009"& and vocals, and Meg High, vocals. Listeners enjoy the trio’s unique arrangements of bluegrass, country, folk, and pop tunes along with their vocal harmony precision. Tickets for the Song of the Mountains concert on January 12th are $ 25 reserved seating. Tickets and information please visit www.songofthemountains. org or call 276-783-6093. The live concert on January 12th is sponsored in part by General Dynamics Armament and Technical Products. Future concerts scheduled for 2013 are February 2, 2013 with Doyle Lawson and Quicksilver, Grass Cats, Smith Family Band and Dixie Ridge. March 2, 2013 will feature the Kruger Brothers, Nathan Stanley and the Clinch Mountain Boys, Mark Newton and Steve Thomas, Paula Dellenback and Fox River and West Wend. Song of the Mountains is underwritten for public television by TEDS, the General Francis Marion Hotel in Marion, VA, Blue Ridge Country 98.1 fm, The Bank of Marion and Emory & Henry College, Bryant Label Co. of Blountville, TN. Special support from the Town of Marion, VA. Also Song of the Mountains appreciates all the support received from their faithful supporters who contribute dol-
lars to keep this concert series funded and on public television across America. Memberships and Song of the Mountains merchandise are available at the website and your purchases help support the concert series. Donations are accepted at the website as well. Song of the Mountains/The Lin)*9(&N."#-$"&'%&#&(*(B:$*,'-&*$ganization. More info available www.songofthemountains.org
Page 16, The Loafer • January 8, 2013
Washington County Libraries Events Friends Of Library To Publish Cookbook The Friends of the Washington County-Jonesborough Library will publish a cookbook '(& RSTU& -*& <"(",'-& -."& 9'<$#$!?& E-&
/'99&$",9")-&/.#-&'%&+('G+"&#<*+-& Washington County and Jonesborough, including the county’s and town’s place in Tennessee history as its oldest county and town, and Jonesborough’s promi-
nence in the storytelling community. We think this cookbook will be of interest to anyone who loves food, local history and stories, family lore, and the culture of the Mountain South. We plan
on collecting not only recipes but stories about as many recipes as possible – why you submitted it. For example: Is it special to you or your family in some way? Does it bring back a memory for you? Do you associate it with a particular place in Washington County or Jonesborough? We hope to collect recipes and stories about the recipes from anyone associated with Washington County, Jonesborough and/ or the library. So if you are a library patron, or are or have been on the library staff, or a Board member, or a Friends member we would love to have recipes from you. Also, we want recipes from folks living or working in the County or Jonesborough, or who have lived or worked in the County or Jonesborough in the past and from their ancestors. We are also interested in recipes and stories from local bed and breakfasts and locally-owned restaurants (current and past) and from storytellers who live and/or entertain in Washington County and Jonesborough. Please submit your favorite recipes and stories about them to mbeardsunsyne@gmail.com or, in the case of type-written or printed submissions, to the library in Jonesborough or Gray. All submissions must include the name and address of the contributor. The deadline for submissions is March 1, 2013. The authorship of all entries will be fully credited; addresses of contributors will not be published. We plan to include photographs and website addresses for contributing businesses and storytellers, so please submit those as well.
LEGO Club Join Ms. Carey for the LEGO Club at the Washington County Libraries! LEGO Club is an opportunity for children aged 5-12
years to come together once a month and participate in building challenges. Gray LEGO Club meets on the second Wednesday of the month from 5:00-6:00 pm. Jonesborough LEGO Club meets the fourth Wednesday of the month from 5:00-6:00 pm. In the case of inclement weather, if Washington County schools are closed, we will not meet for LEGO Club. As with all programs, the LEGO Club is free of charge. If you have any questions, please call the Jonesborough Library at 753-1800, or the Gray Library at 477-1550.
Wee Reads! Winter/ Spring Storytime
Join Ms. Carey for “Wee Reads!” Children’s Storytime at the Washington County Libraries! “Wee Reads!” is an opportunity for children and their parents to come together for stories, songs, crafts and more! The weekly themes are fun and engaging, actively involving chil0$"(&-.$*+4.&3+%')1&,'(4"$&:9#!%1& and other activities. Toddler Storytime for children 18-35 months is offered at the Jonesborough Library on Tuesdays at 9:30 a.m. and at the Gray Library on Thursdays at 9:30 a.m. Sessions last about 20 minutes. Preschool Storytime for children 3-5 years of age is offered at the Jonesborough Library on Tuesdays at 10:15 a.m. and at the Gray Library on Thursdays at 10:15 a.m. Sessions last about 45 minutes. Our winter/spring sessions will start the week of January 7th and run until mid-April. All programs are free of charge. If you have any questions, please call the Jonesborough Library at 753-1800, or the Gray Library at 477-1550.
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Page 18, The Loafer • January 8, 2013
Paper Windows Photography Project Session Nine Winners
The City of Bristol’s Paper Windows Photography project hit a high note in session nine titled, Grateful. The photographer was
WEDNESDAYS
asked to shoot something they were grateful for or saw gratefulness in. “Our judges were particularly .#$0B:$"%%"0& -*& ,'(0& V+%-& one photo that stood
out among the entries during this session. So many of the photos were shot with such a since of passion, the emotional value was immeasurable,” said Lisa Beckner, project coordinator for the city project. N."& ,'$%-& :9#)"& /'(("$& was Wallace Moura’s “Christmas of Hope”. The full-color picture featured a young girl standing in front of a frost-covered window as though she were Continued on page 19
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peering out at the wonder of Christmas. “There was just something that showed the innocence of Christmas in this shot that captured the imagination of anyone viewing it,” said a judge who serves on the panel. The second place winner was titled “Big Miracles in
January 8, 2013 • The Loafer, Page 19
Small Packages” by Regina Shinall. The black and white photograph featured a newborn child lying in an old soft-drink wagon surrounded by a cloudlike blanket. “This photo was so touching. You could almost feel the gratefulness a parent feels in bringing this little human being into the world safe and sound,”
commented a n o t h e r panel judge. T h e photograph t a k i n g third place was titled “ H a p p i l y Ever After” and was also shot by
Regina Shinall. The photo featured a newly married Bride and Groom racing down the aisle. The tenth of the twelve sessions is
titled “The Sound of Music”. “We are anticipating some great work for this session. With all the musical events hosted in downtown Bristol along with all the musical heritage that runs in families of this area, there has to be some great shots,” said Beckner. “Just remember, is not important when the
picture was taken, just that it was taken in Bristol,” continued Beckner. For more information on the Paper Windows Photography project go to the city’s website at bristoltn.org. or contact Lisa Beckner 423-7644171 lbeckner@bristoltn. org.
Page 20, The Loafer • January 8, 2013
City of Kingsport Creates Independent Office of Cultural Arts to Promote Public Art and Opportunities for Artists
A recent reorganization of the City of Kingsport’s Leisure Services Division has resulted in the )$"#-'*(& *2& #& %-#(0B#9*("& W2,')"& of Cultural Arts within the division, highlighting Kingsport’s continued focus on economic as well as cultural opportunities provided by the promotion of all forms of art. Moving forward, collaborative programs will involve a variety of arts organizations as well as non-arts organizations, with the goal of increasing opportunities and outlets for artists of all types. As Kingsport becomes a destination for artists, new markets emerge for the creations of these artists. This in turn ex-
pands both the creative class and economic opportunities within our community. Macdonald, who has worked in Cultural Arts with the City for seven years, and has been involved in community arts programming for more than two decades. Beth Estep and William Stephanos round out the creative -"#3& 2*$& -."& W2,')"& *2& J+9-+$#9& Arts, each with education and experience in the arts and skills to provide narrative for Kingsport’s creative community. The City of Kingsport further supports art programming through the ‘Percent for Art’ program, which authorizes a sum equivalent to .75 percent
of major City capital projects for Public Art efforts. Through the Percent for Art program, local, regional and even national artists are asked to create a ‘sense of place’ within Kingsport, illustrating the important stories of our community through art. N."& J'-!& *2& X'(4%:*$-& W2,')"& of Cultural Arts also works with Engage Kingsport, a private, non:$*,'-&*$4#('Y#-'*(&-.#-&:$*;'0"%& support and guidance for cultural projects. Engage Kingsport has already made an impact through its backing of the Carousel Project, generating donations and other support for the project. “The Carousel Project is a perfect example of what we hope to achieve through the Of,')"1&)*((")-'(4&;*9+(-""$%1&/.*& have given literally thousands of hours of time to the project, with the founding carving artists who helped start the project,” Macdonald said. “And what is even more remarkable about the Carousel Project is that the founding carvers themselves were not Continued on page 21
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artists at all when the project began. Instead, they undertook training and became skilled carving artisans as a result of their initial desire to secure a Carousel as a gift to the community.” Each completed animal requires more than 600 hours of carving. Volunteer animal painters and rounding board painters go through special training in order to achieve dazzling effects that will highlight the animals and the Carousel frame itself. To date, Engage Kingsport has raised more than $170,000 for the Carousel effort and will continue to seek sponsors of every level, with a total goal of $500,000 for the project. “These efforts do not happen without volunteers and com-
munity support,” Macdonald %#'0?&DN."&W2,')"&*2&J+9-+$#9&>$-%& certainly would like to extend a huge Thank You to the Public Art Committee members, the directors of Engage Kingsport and the hundreds of volunteers who have already made a huge positive impact on Kingsport.” Members of the Public Art Committee include: Roy Harmon, Bruce Shine, Brad Hoover, Beverly Perdue, Judy Smith, Chris Campbell, Jeff Stoner, Greg Willis, Janelle Swafford. Members of the board of directors of Engage Kingsport include: Reggie Martin, Cindy Saadeh, Gerald Sheppard, Bill Haile, Sharon Hurd, Lucy Fleming, Kathy Richards, and Mark Ray.
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Comets Highlight Stargazing for 2013
Two comets speeding toward the Sun could be spectacular in 2013, a year that will continue to see man explore Mars, Saturn, Mercury and our own Earth. Pretty soon the general media will begin picking up the names to two approaching comets, PANNSTARS and ISON, and the doomsayers will start wagging their Continued on page 23
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tongues that the end is near— again! The evening skies of March 3'4.-& <"& ,'99"0& /'-.& -."& 9*(41& bright tail of Comet PANNSTARS, named for the remote controlled telescope in Hawaii that “pans the stars” discovered it in 2011. Then in November and December, Comet ISON might be an amazing sight. Discovered in by another comet and asteroid hunting telescope in 2012, its trajectory is favorable for a close pass of Earth giving predictions for a “Comet of the Century.” While Comet PANNSTARS might put on a show as spectacular as the beautiful tail of the 2007 Comet McNaught in the Southern Hemisphere, Comet ISON might cast a shadow as its predicted brightness rivaling the Moon would make it visible in the daytime. It will be a predawn sight, and could be something that everyone will be talking about a year from now as a wonderful holiday sight. But, comet predictions are a lot like betting the horses—there are some many factors than can make a “sure thing” go awry. Comets are dirty snowballs of ice and grit the size of a small city. A
January 8, 2013 • The Loafer, Page 23 few are orbiting the Sun in long, elliptical orbits that are predictable, like Halley’s Comet, next visible in 2061 AD. The two anticipated comets *2& RSTU& #$"& ,'$%-& -'3"$%& '(& -."'$& pass around the Sun, having been perturbed out of the reservoir of comets called the Oort Cloud by gravity of the giant gas planets, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus and Neptune, as well as passing stars. The New Year will again be devoid of any eclipses of the Moon or the Sun that catch the eye of the North American public. You won’t notice a change when the Full Moon slips into the thin, outer shadow of the Earth on May 25 and Oct 18. A partial eclipse of the Moon will be seen from Europe on the night of April 25. The Sun will be eclipsed by the Moon as seen from Australia #(0&-."&C*+-.&M#)',')&'(&#&D$'(4&*2& ,'$"5& -.#-& /*(F-& G+'-"& )*;"$& *+$& entire star. Then another “annular eclipse” will take place on Nov. 3, with parts of it total in the continent of Africa. The nights of Memorial Weekend from May 24-28 will have three planets dazzling the western horizon—Jupiter, Venus and Mercury. The Full Moon night of June 23rd will have another “super
moon” as it will be extremely close to Earth (218,000 miles), making it 14 per cent closer and 30 per cent brighter than a normal Full Moon. Looking into the 2013 crystal ball concerning human and unmanned space exploration, the status quo will be maintained on the International Space Station while the world awaits the next Chinese launch of their second and much larger space station called Tiangong 2. Space watchers think the Chinese will continue advancing their prowess in orbit with the launch in June 2013 of two men and one woman “taikonaut” aboard the Shenzhou 10 spaceship to the box-car sized Tiangog 1 space station, in orbit for two years and the home for three weeks of the Shenzhou 9 trio of taikonauts. China makes no secret of their plans to build several orbiting space stations and eventually head to the Moon. Russia’s tried-and-true threeman spaceship called Soyuz enters its 45th year of service with a half-dozen upgrades during that time. Four Soyuz missions are planned this year to ferry up Expedition 35-38 crews, and bring them back to Earth. The November launch of Soyuz TMA11M will mark the 120th launch
and orbit of a Soyuz spacecraft since the one-man Soyuz 1. While the usual stay on the ISS is four to six months by the international crews, four spacemen are training for year-long stints beginning this year. The role of independent space agencies in maintaining the ISS will be expanded with two more important cargo launches of their spaceship “Dragon” by the Space X Corp. There will also be -."& ,'$%-& %.#Q"0*/(& 9#+()."%& and rendezvous with the ISS by -/*&("/&:$';#-"&%:#)",9'4.-&<+%'nesses, and an unmanned test of the Virgin Galactic spaceship that might take paid passengers -*&#&%+<*$<'-#9&,9'4.-&<!&RSTZ? Around the Solar System, there will be more discoveries by *(B4*'(4&%:#)")$#2-&*$<'-'(4&,';"& planets. The European Space Agency has Venus Express in orbit taking measurements of the cloud-shrouded world as Mars Express orbits the Red Planet. NASA has the following active space probes reaping the scien-',')&$"/#$0%&*2&!"#$%&*2&:9#(('(4& and mission accomplishments: Messenger orbits Mercury; orbiting Mars are Mars Odyssey and Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter; roving the surface of Mars are Mars Excursion Rover Opportu-
nity and Mars Science Laboratory Curiosity; orbiting Saturn is the most expensive NASA space $*<*-&";"$!&,9*/(1&-."&[T&<'99'*(& Cassini. Also on NASA’s plate and its $17 billion budget from the American taxpayers: The Tracking and Data Relay Satellite System (TDRS) will be updated with a new spacecraft for important space communications The Landsat Data Continuity Mission (LDCM) will gather valuable data and imagery of Earth to be used for agriculture, business, government education and science. Lunar Atmosphere and Dust Environment Explorer that will analyze from orbit the properties of lunar dust. The Mars Atmosphere and Volatile Evolution (MAVEN) mis%'*(&-*&\#$%&/'99&<"&-."&,'$%-&*$biter to study the atmosphere and understand how the Red Planet changed the last 2-3 billion years. And there’ll be plenty of research missions from the European Space Agency, Russian Space Agency and the Chinese. Keep looking up for exciting news in 2013 from outer space.
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www.theloaferonline.com Celestial events in the skies for the week of Jan. 8‐14, 2013, as compiled for The Loafer by Mark D. Marquette. Night falls around 6:30 pm this week with moonless evenings gripping the land and revealing the exciting bright constellations and stars of winter. High in the early evening is bright planet Jupiter in Taurus the Bull with the red star Aldebaran nearby. The Pleiades cluster is easy to see high overhead, and leaping the eastern horizon is Orion the Hunter. Tues. Jan. 8 Happy Birthday Stephen Hawking, the world’s premier physicists and longest %+$;';*$&>OC&#-&#4"&]S?&J*(,'("0&-*&#& wheel chair for decades, Hawking has a brilliant mind that has pioneered modern day physics. Wed. Jan. 9 The brightest star in the sky, Sirius, is high above the eastern horizon by 9 pm, and above it is another bright star, Procyon. They are the brightest stars in the Big and Little Dogs, Canis Major and Minor. Thurs. Jan. 10 Above Procyon are two stars side-by-side, the Gemini brothers Castor and Pollux. Their bodies are two strings of stars that extend above Orion. By midnight, Orion has taken a lookout position directly south, with Sirius to his left and Gemini and Taurus directly overhead.
January 8, 2013 • The Loafer, Page 25 Fri. Jan. 11 On this 1978 date in space history, NASA was three years away from the Space Shuttle when Russia docked two manned Soyuz spacecraft to their Salyut 6 space %-#-'*(1&)9"#$9!&9"#0'(4&-."&-").(*9*4!&*2&9*(4B-"$3&.+3#(&%:#)",9'4.-? Sat. Jan. 12 New Moon is today with the natural satellite invisible in the daytime sky and beginning its new phase as an evening crescent by Monday. Sun. Jan. 13 The morning sky has planet Saturn near the horizon in Libra at 5 am, while Venus is close to the Sun as the planet rises in the pre-dawn twilight. Mon. Jan. 14 On this 2005 date in space history NASA landed a tiny space probe on the alien moon Titan orbiting the planet Saturn. Ejected from the $1 billion Cassini spaceship in orbit about Saturn, the probe Huygens parachuted while taking :.*-*%&*2&,9*/'(4&3"-.#("&$';"$%&<"2*$"&9#(0ing on the shore of a small lake. It sent back data and photos for about an hour in the minus -200 below zero surface of Titan.
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Weizenblatt Gallery Features Vadim Bora
Mars Hill College’s Weizenblatt Gallery will feature a collection of paintings and sculptures by the late Vadim Bora, January 17- February 28, titled Silent Symphony – Land, Body, Water: Selected Works by Vadim Bora. The exhibit will include an opening reception on Thursday, January 17, from 4-7 pm, and a curator’s lecture for students and the public on Wednesday, February 6, at 2 pm. This exhibition explores Bora’s vibrant palette and thoughtful observations of land- and waterscapes over several continents, as well as the human form and its relation to nature. Curated by the artist’s widow, Constance Richards, the intimate "A.'<'-'*(&$",9")-%&/*$Q&-.#-&/#%&)$"#-"0&-.$*+4.out Vadim Bora’s career in the United States, ranging from 1993-2010, with an emphasis on rarely-exhibited later works. (His sudden passing came in January 2011.) The pieces in the exhibition come on loan from private collections, the Dillingham-Richards Collection, and the Vadim Bora Estate. Created as a “teaching exhibition,” this show will allow students to follow some of the artist’s steps in creating a piece of art.
Bora was a teacher and gallery owner, as well as an accomplished sculptor and painter, with seven public art sculptures around Asheville, downtown, and on the Biltmore Estate. “It enriches the student experience, and allows them to follow the continuum of the artist’s initial idea. Vadim continues to teach through his works, and his art continues to resonate with the community and beyond. I thank Mars Hill College for this opportunity to show more of Vadim’s work.” A catalog of selected works by Vadim Bora is currently available at the Asheville Art Museum Shop. Vadim Bora’s website is www.vadimborastudio. com.
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!"#$%#&#'($)*$+,#
E& .*:"& !*+& /*(F-& ,'(0& -.'%& week’s column to be too indulgent. After all, it’s only a column discussing how brilliant and humble I am. Kidding. This week’s column stems from the fact that—in one of the very few times this has occurred—this week’s issue of The Loafer is coming out on January 8th. This happens to be the date of my birth. It’s not a bad date at all to be born on, I share this day with Elvis Presley, David Bowie, and Graham Chapman from Monty Python. Fine company indeed. I’m 28 today, and I have no problem with that, or age at all. Over the past year, I found myself taking issue with some people I graduated with from high school on Facebook. You know the ones, they never talked to you much in high school, but yet they insist you accept their friend request. The issue I found myself having, was some of their status updates. “Can’t believe I’m turning 27!!!!!! I’M SOOOOO OLD!!!!!” Things of that nature. If they’re having issue with being 27, one can only imagine how they’ll feel when they reach 47. You see, unlike these folk, I don’t mind age at all. Age means many wonderful things, the foremost being that you’re still alive to see another year. In light of
the very unfortunate events that ended 2012, I can say I’m more thankful for that this birthday than any other. 28 means you’ve lived through a few of the hurdles that help you navigate life with. You’ve learned how to tell when some of your “friends” are really users, and you’ve begun to be fully comfortable with yourself. You reach that stage when you no longer care what others think of you. Sure, you don’t want anyone to think you’re a jerk, but you no longer worry if people think it’s weird you’re driving around belting out The Shangrai-Las’ classic hit “Out in the Streets.” Everyone has a different experience in their 20s, and mine has been rocky at times. Ups and downs, and twists and turns. But I’m happy to be here at 28. Even happier I’m not married. No offense to those of you who are married and what not, I just don’t particularly see myself going down that road at any point in the near future. Too many bad relationships, and too many divorces in my family have caused me to become a bit sour on the subject. But good for you if it’s all sunshine and Hallmarkyness. I suspect some of you of another age may be a little surprised at the youngster waxing
poetically about age and what not. But the thing is that this is as old as I’ve ever been, I can only comment on the now from this viewpoint. Perhaps ten years from now, I’ll look back and regret sending this one off to print. There’s plenty of columns from my early days at The Loafer that I hope never see the light of day again. I’m optimistic about 28, life is far too short to wallow around in the trenches of negativity. Bad things happen, a number of things did to me last year. But I know that one day, at some point, it all makes sense. So here’s to 28, to another year of pondering life, and discovering movies I’ve never seen before. Not to mention getting caught at red lights, by people in the other cars, with my windows down, and belting out 1960s Girl Group Tunes. They’re so infectious, how could you not? Cheers to another year, cheers the ones who remain hopeful, cheers to the ones who still take no shame in being fully in touch with their inner child. See you next week. Follow me on Twitter @ThatAndyRoss, check out my web presence at heythereandy.blogspot. com
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Jack Reacher There are actors in Hollywood, and there are movies stars. To me Tom Cruise falls in the latter. Yes he can <"&#&,'("&#)-*$1&<+-&E&.#;"&#9ways felt his “star wattage” is in the league of Marilyn Monroe. Tom has proven time and again he is a box *2,')"& 2*$)"& -*& <"& $")Q*("0& with (the “Mission Impos%'<9"5& ,'93& %"$'"%& <"'(4& #(& example). Cruise in back in -."&("/&,'93&D^#)Q&H"#)."$51& and don’t let the preview fool you, as this movie is far more than Cruise running around in a car knocking people out. Cruise stars as Reacher, an ex-military investigator who becomes involved in a case to prove the innocence of an exmilitary sniper who has been accused of murdering some innocent American civilians. Reacher is called into action by the accused, and is soon aiding the sniper’s attorney, Helen (Rosamund Pike) who is going up against her father, the local District Attorney involved in the case. Reacher begins his own investigation and discovers there are sinister forces behind -."&%(':"$&#--#)Q1&#(0&%**(&,'(0%&.'3%"92& a target for termination. The movie surprised me in several
aspects, one of which was that this is an action-crime-thriller with intelligence. The action sequences are exciting, and Cruise is given the opportunity to work with the always marvelous Robert Duvall. The two actors work great together and have wonderful onscreen chemistry, aid"0&<!&%(#::!&0'#9*4+"?&N."&,'93&:$*;'0"%& plenty of opportunities for Cruise to have “movie star” moments, and he allows his co-stars to shine as well. The promo tag 9'("&2*$&-."&,'93&'%_&DN."&O#/&.#%&9'3'-%?&@"& does not”. The tag line seems to apply to Cruise the actor as well, as Hollywood has limits, but he does not. Mr. Cruise knows how to choose roles tailor for him, and he has done it again. (Rated PG-13) B+
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2013 - The Year of Smart Toilets? (And Other Predictions)
Predictions run rampant at this time of the year, and as I’ve said many times, predictions are really impossible to make with any accuracy (witness the December 21, 2012 hoopla). But they do allow us to indulge our passions for being in control. And they are generally a lot of fun. So, let’s see what the new year may or may not have in store for us. I'$%-1& E& )#(& )*(,'0"(-9!& :$"dict I will keep my New Year’s Resolution for this year just like EF;"& 0*("& 2*$& -."& :#%-& ,'2-""(& *$& so years. Each year, I make the same resolution and so far have never failed to keep it. And what is that, you ask? Very simple and very achievable—I vow to never watch the movie version of “The Sound Of Music.” Don’t get me wrong—I have nothing against this iconic movie, and Robert Wise is one my all-time favorite directors. It’s just a very easy resolution to keep, and I can look forward to ending each year with a sense of accomplishment. If only other aspects of my life were this easy to bring under control (i.e. reducing the amount of stuff -.#-&,'99%&3!&E(<*A&";"$!&0#!`? Second, it appears that 2013 will see an accelerated proliferation (neat term, huh?) of the socalled “Internet of Things” that has come to characterize our mobile society. This term refers to the capability of being able to access the Internet from gadgets other than desktops, laptops, and tablets. The latest and perhaps most bizarre manifestation is yet another innovation from Japan—the Satis, an advanced “smart toilet” that performs a wide array of functions via Bluetooth and other communication protocols. And what can it
do? According to a recent press release (available, with video, from www.dailymail.co.uk), the Satis, which is manufactured by -."& ^#:#("%"& ,'$3& O'A'91& D)#(& <"& controlled from an iPhone or Android app, [allows users to] lift the lid before they arrive using a special app [and tracks bowel movements] to monitor health.”
And, yes, the Satis plays music and heats your posterior while you are giving it directions from your smartphone. Targeted for a spring release, the Satis promises to revolution the bathroom experience, further expanding the “Internet of Things” into literally every nook and cranny of our daily lives. Closely related to the Internet of Things is my third prediction, relating to the availability of 3-D Printing, or Additive Printing as it is most accurately termed. Taking personal printing to a whole new level, this process allows us to create a working product from a detailed drawing, spreading some alarm in the manufacturing
community. Most recently, fears were raised when MakerBot demonstrated how easy it was to 3#(+2#)-+$"& #& /*$Q'(4& ,'$"#$3& in the privacy of your home. This, of course, raised some serious ethical questions— such as, “Just because it can be done, should it be permitted?” Ethical questions aside—not that they are easy to put aside—Additive Printing will no doubt become a very hot topic this year and will change the way we think about the manufacturing process. Fourth, several commentators have noted that we have not seen the last of the “50 Shades of Grey” phenomenon. In fact, this new trend promises to follow in the wake of the “Pride And Prejudice And Zombies” sensation to produce several literary and cinematic variations of E. L. James’ S&M cash cow. Several authors, including Sylvia Day, Maya Banks, Sylvain Reynard (a pseudonym), and L. Marie Adeline (another pseudonym), are hard at work producing “50 Shades” clones that will no doubt be transformed into movies at some point. Defenders of this literature, often referred to as “mommy porn,” are quick to point out that it at least encourages people to read. According
to Bahram Olfati (apparently not a pseudonym), Vice President of Indigo Books and Music, “Any time people buy books and start reading, it is not a bad thing. I don’t judge the content. As long as people are reading, it will improve you.” Just how it will improve you he doesn’t say, however. Following the success of “Abraham Lincoln, Vampire Hunter,” and “Pride And Prejudice and Zombies,” I predict we will soon be seeing the following titles on our shelves: “Mary Todd Lincoln, Gigolo Hunter,” “Grover Cleveland, American Gigolo,” and Shakespeare’s “As You Like It With S&M”. The possibilities are truly endless. C:"#Q'(4& *2& 3*;'"%1& 3!& ,'2-.& prediction is based on a little piece I found on KPHO Phoenix’s website. “There are few things more annoying than someone tweeting while you are at the theater,” notes journalist Greg Argo. “But now some theaters are thinking about encouraging it.” These theaters, taking their cue from English proprietors, are installing sections of “tweet seats,” where tweeters can tweet at will without disturbing other patrons (who most likely resent being distracted from updat'(4& -."'$& I#)"<**Q& :$*,'9"%`?& W2& course, tweeting has become a preferred method of advertising and writing reviews, etc., so it is understandable why theater owners would want to install these special seating sections (unless, of course, their shows start getting a lot of negative tweets). If this trend catches on, expect to see “tweet seats” at restaurants, in churches, and at other public events. Sounds like a plan to me. My sixth prediction has to do with our becoming
a drug culture. No, I’m not talking about illegal drugs, which do surely pose a problem. I’m talking about the prescription drugs -.#-& '(& %*& 3#(!& /#!%& 0",'("& American culture and shape our behavior. It is surprising to me -.#-1& 4';"(& -."& :*/"$& #(0& '(,9+ence of this multi-billion dollar industry (which could easily pay off most of our national debt), we don’t name our children after its most popular and lucrative products. After perusing a list of the top-selling prescription drugs, I predict we will soon meet children with these rather catchy names: Humira Jones, Abilify Smith, Plavix Johnson, Cymbalta Edwards, Spiriva Matthews, Lantus Collins, Lyrica Blevins, and Enbrel Wilson. Given you any ideas? Last but not least is my seventh prediction, and one that has a very good chance of coming true. Given all the political shenanigans we’ve witnessed during the past year or so, it seems inevitable that we will see the rise of the Opposition Party this year, dedicated to only one goal—to disagree and oppose any idea that is not endorsed by its members. No principles, ethics, ideology, love of country, or decency—just a determination to say “No” to anything its members don’t like. Of course, membership in this party will by necessity remain rather small, given the fact that its members will start opposing each other as membership grows. Perhaps there will only be two or three founding members. There you have it—my list of predictions for the coming year. Let’s plan to meet again on New Year’s Eve to see how accurate they are. By then, of course, I will hopefully have another list for 2014. See you next week.
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