The Loafer November 14th by The Loafer

theloaferonline.com | November 14, 2017

on the cover

Volume 31 • Issue #50

Speedway

Publisher Luci Tate Editor Graphic Arts Director Don Sprinkle

In Lights

Advertising Patti Barr Paul Kavanaugh Janie Jarvis Lori Howell

Contributing Staff Jim Kelly Andy Ross Ken Silvers Mark Marquette Brian Bishop Daniel Worley Jason Worley Langley Shazor Distribution Jerry Hanger Teresa Hanger Published by Pulse Publishing, LLC., P.O. Box 3238, Johnson City, TN 37602 Phone: 423/283-4324 FAX - 423/283-4369 www.theloaferonline.com info@theloaferonline.com e-mail: editorial@theloaferonline.com adcopy@theloaferonline.com All advertisements are accepted and published by the publisher upon the representation that the agency and/ or advertiser is authorized to publish the entire contents and subject matter thereof. The agency and/or advertiser will indemnify and save the publisher harmless from any lossof expense resulting from claims or suits based upon contents of any advertisement, including claims or suits for defamation, libel, right of privacy, plagiarism, and copyright infringement.

Founder: Bill Williams Let’s Get Social!

columns & reviews

Office Coordinator Amanda Lane

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Batteries Not Included Thanksgiving 2107, Part One Stargazer Geminid Meteor Shower, A Good One Skies This Week Pop Life Smoky Mountain Christmas Appalachian Wanderers A Year of Entertainment Mountain Movers The MAJ Alan W. Bagley Interview Puzzle Page Kelly’s Place Conversations In A Jar

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your week’s line-up

Cover Design Bill May

Speedway In Lights The Ice Rink at Bristol Motor Speedway Mountain Park Old Time Band @ Carter Fold Contra Dance & Annual Food Raiser Night of Lights Gala Greyscale presents Luminosity Grand Funk Railroad @ NPAC Dreaming of a White Christmas Chris Knight at Capitol Theatre Syren plays Holston River Brewing Co. Spotlight Food Truck Junction Escape Rooms @ JCPL FW 2017 Fashion Show Paramount Partners Longboard Race @ Willow Springs Pets Of The Week Things To Do

theloaferonline.com | November 14, 2017

November 17, 2017 through January 6, 2018

resented by Bristol Chapter of Speedway Children’s Charities, The Pinnacle Speedway in Lights Powered By TVA is the largest holiday light show in the South. Speedway in Lights benefits programs and organizations supporting the needs of children in the Tri-Cities region by producing one of the largest holiday light shows in the country. A route of approximately four miles and two million lights provides entertainment for thousands and raises money for children charities in and around the region.

Admission: Cars – $15 Sunday through Thursday; $20 Friday and Saturday Activity vans – $30 (each night) Buses – $100 each night Change to entrance! A new entrance/route (introduced in 2012) for the event gives visitors a fresh look at The Pinnacle Speedway In Lights as they begin their drive-through trek at the Bristol Dragway entrance, on Hwy. 394; NOT the South entrance of the Speedway on Volunteer Parkway

20 Nights of Giving

or the first 10 nights and the last 10 nights of Speedway in Lights, guests will be given a special gift or opportunity to win a large gift. The Christmas season is about giving. The community continues to bless Speedway Children’s Charities so this is our way of giving back just a small portion to those making such a big difference.

top by Christmas Village to meet some of your favorite characters! Different characters will be present each Wednesday from 6pm-8pm. Follow Bristol Motor Speedway on Facebook to see who will be there!

Nightly Sponsors Sunday: The Pinnacle – Bring your Pinnacle merchant receipt to Speedway in Lights on Sunday nights to receive $2 off the price of admission Monday: WCYB – Print your $2 off coupon from the WCYB website. Good for Monday nights only. Tuesday: Beef O’Brady’s – Bring your Beef O’Brady’s receipt to Speedway in Lights for $2 off admission on Tuesdays. Wednesday: Military Night and Hardees – Present a Hardees receipt or a valid military ID on Wednesdays to receive $2 off price of admission to Speedway in Lights. Thursday: Tele-Optics – Find a $2 off coupon on Tele-Optics website good for use on Thursday nights.

November 16, 2017 through January 14, 2018

t’s the Ice Rink at Bristol Motor Speedway presented by HVAC! Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned skating pro we invite you to load up the family and join us on the ice. The Ice Rink at Bristol Motor Speedway presented by HVAC marks it’s 13th season of providing ice skating fun to individuals of all ages. It’s the only ice skating rink within a 90-minute driving radius of Bristol Motor Speedway, and it’s become one of the Speedway’s most popular off-track events. The rink draws more than 30,000 skaters each year. For more information regarding the Ice Rink at Bristol Motor Speedway presented by HVAC, please call Sonya Moore at 423.989.6924 or e-mail sonya@bristolmotorspeedway.com

theloaferonline.com | November 14, 2017

Mountain Park Old Time Band

theloaferonline.com | November 14, 2017

Saturday, November 18th, 2017, at 7:30 p.m., the Carter Family Fold in Hiltons, Virginia, will present a concert by the Mountain Park Old Time Band.

ountain Park Old Time Band was formed ten years ago as a group of friends who happened to enjoy old time music got together to have a good time. Over the past several years, the Mountain Park Old Time Band has been creating a stir in old time music circles. The group has five members, all of whom are very versatile and talented musicians. Nancy and Johnny Gentry played for years with the Whitetop Mountain Band. Johnny plays guitar, dobro, and fiddle as well as doing vocals for the band. Nancy drives the rhythm with her excellent bass playing. She and Johnny both teach music. Johnny also makes beautiful banjos. He made and donated a unique Carter Fold banjo that was given away at our 42nd annual festival in August to help raise funds for the Fold. It was truly a piece of art. A lucky gentleman in Austin, Texas won the banjo. Roger Stamper handles the fiddling for the group and he plays guitar and bass as well. C. T. Janney plays the washboard – an “instrument” rarely played today. C.T. also cuts a mean rug when he dances. Dr. Mark Handy plays banjo and does vocals – he’s also a champion clogger. When he’s not playing old time music, Dr. Handy practices medicine in Abingdon, Virginia, and helps to run his family’s farm. Fans of groups like the Whiteop Mountain Band will love the Mountain Park Old Time Band. Be sure to bring your dancing shoes, and be ready for a night of down home fun. Nothing gets you out of your seat and on the dance floor faster than a rousing old time band. Don’t miss the Mountain Park Old Time Band at the Carter Family Fold! For more information on the group, go to: mountainparkoldtimeband.com. For further information, go to carterfamilyfold.org. or call 276-386-6054.

Admission to the concert is $10 for adults, children 6 to 11 $2, under age 6 free. Tickets are available at the door. Doors open at 6:00 p.m

he Historic Jonesborough Dance Society will present a contra dance on Saturday, November 18, 2017 at the Historic Jonesborough Visitors Center, 117 Boone Street. The featured band will be Unbalanced with Jacob Legrone as the caller. Admission to the dance is $7, HJDS Members $5, Students $5. No partner is necessary. All dances are taught by the caller. All dances are smoke and alcohol free. A workshop for beginning contra dancers will be led by the caller at 7:00pm. The dance will run from 7:30-10:30pm with a waltz break at 9:00pm where, once again, Klondike Bars will be served to all. The Food Raiser, a month-long collection, is being organized to supply nonperishable food stuffs for the Jonesborough Area Ministerial Association Food Bank. Nationwide food bank donations continue to decline. Donor fatigue may be setting in as the economy puts more and more families at risk and unable to feed themselves. “We are asking all dancers and members of the local community to bring non-perishable food stuffs to give to those in need” adds even organizer, David Wiley. Contra dances are community events. At almost any contra you will find people of all ages and all dance skill levels, from young to old, beginner to expert. Contra dancers form a very open and welcoming group of people. You can come alone or with others since it is a tradition to dance with a variety of partners throughout the night. It is perfectly acceptable for either a man or a woman to ask someone to dance. It’s a great way to make friends with someone they haven’t met before. You will find contra dancing a great way to make new friends. For more information, please contact event organizer, David Wiley at 423-5348879, visit www.historicjonesboroughdancesociety.org and on FACEBOOK.

Beers & Brats Style Boutique Downtown 101 Cherokee Street, Suite 20, Kingsport

November 16 • 5-8pm ey men! Do you have a special lady or ladies to spoil this Christmas? Join us for a Men's Shopping Night at Style Boutique - have a few beers, a couple of brats and purchase gifts at discounted prices. We'll even gift wrap your purchases free of charge. Get all of your christmas shopping done in one night with great food and discounts!

theloaferonline.com | November 14, 2017

Contra Dance and Annual Food Raiser

theloaferonline.com | November 14, 2017

Hey! Ho! Let’s Go! Join us at the Night of Lights Gala!

here’s a party goin’ on right here! We will have totally tubular slide rides, & mixology until 7:30, a silent auction, live auction, and dinner catered by Main Street Cafe and Catering, followed by entertainment featuring DJ Robbie Britton and all of the awesome 80s tunes! Come prepared to pay or pledge to get your favorite played next! It wasn’t the summer of ‘69 but the fall of ‘87 when Hands On! Regional Museum first opened. So, we are like totally going back to the beginning to celebrate the past 30 years of Hands On! and our last year in this location at this year’s Night of Lights Gala! All proceeds will support the programs and exhibits that help Hands On! inspire 70,000 visitors each year. 80s prom attire optional, complimentary valet parking.

Friday, November 17, 2017 • 6:30 p.m. at Hands On! Regional Museum Tickets are $125 each. To purchase tickets or other information, call (423) 434-4263.

GREYSCALE

presents Luminosity

ast Tennessee State University’s student vocal ensemble Greyscale will present a concert titled “Luminosity” on Saturday, Nov. 18, at 7:30 p.m. in the D.P. Culp University Center’s Martha Street Culp Auditorium. Greyscale will showcase its signature blend of pop, jazz and contemporary a cappella in this show featuring performances by the full ensemble and individuals within the group. This one-night-only show will include current radio hits, jazz standards and individual tunes by ETSU students. Tickets are $10 for general admission and free for students with ID. For tickets or more information, contact the ETSU Department of Music at 423-439-4276 or music@etsu.edu. For disability accommodations, call the ETSU Office of Disability Services at 423-439-8346.

theloaferonline.com | November 14, 2017

GRANDFUNK RAILROAD takes the stage at NPAC

Originating from Flint, Michigan in 1969, this top selling American rock group of the '70s is "Comin’ to your towntohelpyoupartyitdown.”Grand Funk Railroad takes the stage at the Niswonger Performing Arts Center on Saturday, November 18th at 7:30 p.m.

rand Funk laid the groundwork for such bands as Foreigner, Journey, Van Halen and Bon Jovi with its signature hard driving sound, soulful vocals, muscular instrumentation and forceful pop melodies. The fact that Grand Funk's legacy still reigns over the Classic Rock landscape forty years after its 1969 birth in Flint, Michigan is a testament to the group's influence and staying power. Mega-hits “We’re an American Band,” “I’m Your Captain/Closer to Home,” “Locomotion,” and “Some Kind of Wonderful” still receive continuous airplay on Classic Rock radio. Over their career, Grand Funk has had 19 charted singles, 8 Top 40 hits and two #1 singles. The group has now accumulated 13 gold and 10 platinum records with record sales in excess of 25 million copies sold worldwide.

Known as "The American Band," the high-energy five-piece group includes original founding members Don Brewer and Mel Schacher. Joining Don and Mel are singer Max Carl, a rock veteran from 38 Special, lead guitarist Bruce Kulick, and keyboardist Tim Cashion. Reminisce with Grand Funk Railroad, only $40 balcony tickets remain. Tickets are on sale now for all performances for the entire 2017-2018 season and may be purchased online at NPACgreeneville.com, in person at the NPAC box office, or by calling 423-638-1679. NPAC offers online seat selection with no processing or delivery fees. There is an additional $1.50 ticketing fee per ticket regardless of purchase method. The box office hours are Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. until 5 p.m.Located adjacent to the campus of Greeneville High School. For venue information, and to purchase tickets, please visit npacgreeneville.com.

Dreaming of a

White Christmas It’s going to be a white Christmas in Abingdon this season, regardless of the weather forecast. Beginning Friday November 17, Abingdon celebrates “An Old-Fashioned White Christmas,” a month of family-friendly holiday activities. At the heart of the holiday schedule is Barter Theatre’s “White Christmas,” which provided inspiration for the Town’s holiday celebration.

xperience a Christmas “just like the ones we used to know,” with a month of holiday celebrations in Abingdon, November 17th through December 9th. Abingdon’s quaint downtown will be transformed in to a Christmas wonderland, with carolers, magical storefront displays, the scent of roasted chestnuts on the air and special events to celebrate the season. There will be plenty of opportunities to find the perfect gift, as Abingdon’s merchants will stay open late each weekend to accommodate shoppers. The Christmas season begins in Abingdon with the opening of Barter Theatre’s “White Christmas,” Friday November 17th. Barter is a holiday tradition for many families in the region, and this year’s offering is a lavish production of the beloved Christmas movie. It’s a timeless tale of joy and goodwill filled with Irving Berlin’s best songs, topped off with glorious dancing and lots of snow, making this a show a holiday classic for all audiences. The fun continues with “Rudolph,” a holiday story for young audiences, and the hilarious comedies “A Tuna Christmas,” and “The Santaland Diaries,” (better suited for adults). With plenty to see and do each weekend, families will want to plan to spend the entire day in Abingdon. The Abingdon Farmers Market will hold a Holiday Market each Saturday morning from 10am to 12pm with baked goods, crafts and gifts, and Abingdon’s merchants will compete for the best store window, with “White Christmas” themed displays. Other activities include free Christmas concerts, holiday craft workshops for kids, and photos with Santa, hosted by Abingdon’s businesses and non-profits. For a full list of holiday activities for families, go to VisitAbingdonVirginia.com/Christmas.

Town-wide events include: Abingdon Merchants’ Holiday Open House

Sunday November 19th, 1pm to 6pm Kick off the holiday season with a town-wide open house, hosted by Abingdon’s merchants. Jump-start the holiday season, with extended shopping hours (1pm to 6pm), free holiday concerts, and free refreshments at many stores. New this year, Abingdon’s businesses will compete for the most over-the-top window display, inspired by Barter Theatre’s “White Christmas.” For more information, go to VisitAbingdonVirginia.com/Christmas

Small Business Saturday

Saturday November 25th, 11am to 7pm Skip the Black Friday madness, and head to downtown Abingdon for Small Business Saturday. Abingdon will celebrate with free family activities and extended merchant hours 11am to 7pm. Roasted chestnuts will be on sale at Main Street Town Park starting at 11am until supplies run out, and the cast of Barter Theatre’s “Rudolph” will be caroling 11am to 1pm on West Main Street. block between Cummings and Russell Road. For more information, go to VisitAbingdonVirginia.com/Christmas

Santa’s Mailbox

November 15 – December 10 Make the holidays extra special for your little ones this year with a personal letter from the big guy, postmarked from North Pole, Alaska. Write your letter to Santa, and drop it in Santa’s Mailbox, located next to The Candy Shed at 272 W. Main Street in downtown Abingdon. Letters must be dropped off between November 15 and December 10, and must include a name and full return address. For more information, go to VisitAbingdonVirginia. com/Christmas

Abingdon Christmas Tree Lighting and Christmas Parade

December 1st and 2nd Friday December 1st is the annual Abingdon Christmas Tree Lighting, at 6:00pm At the Market Pavilion on Remsburg Drive. Saturday December 2nd is Abingdon’s Annual Christmas Parade, presented by the Kiwanis Club, 6:00pm to 8:00pm. Abingdon Baptist Church will offer free cocoa and hot cider during the parade, while the American Chestnut Foundation will offer roasted chestnuts for sale. Both events are free, and Abingdon’s merchants and restaurants will be open late to welcome families. Go to VisitAbingdonVirginia.com/Christmas for a full list of holiday events and promotions.

theloaferonline.com | November 14, 2017

Chris Knight brings his grit-filled country to the stage of the Capitol Theatre in historic downtown Greeneville, TN on November 18th at 8:00. Tickets for the show are available at www.capitolgreeneville.org for $25.

hris Knight’s story begins six miles outside of Slaughters, Kentucky, a remote coalmining town of 200 people where Knight was raised and still lives with his wife and children on 40 wooded acres. Chris graduated from Western Kentucky University in 1984 with a degree in agriculture and began working for the state as a strip-mine reclamation inspector. Following his mother’s death in 1992, he began writing songs about the people, places and pain that he’s seen, known and continues to live. His carefully honed character sketches and surely paced narratives evoke real rural life more accurately and honestly than anything you’ll hear on pop-country radio —not just the glory and the romance of ordinary Southern existence, but the darkness and the disappointments. Chris Knight’s characters have dirt under their fingernails and life behind their eyes. His live shows stay with you like a long hot summer.

Frank Liddell (Chris’ first producer of the self titled: “Chris Knight” and producer of Miranda Lambert, Lee Ann Womack, etc) spearheaded the release of “The Trailer Tapes” and “Trailer II”, early acoustic recordings capturing the artist in his true element before any possible influence from the Nashville community. A true pioneer, in the school of Lomax’s field recordings, Frank documented Chris’ body of work. “These tapes are like an amazing photograph out of an old Life Magazine, before Photoshop or fancy editing tricks, Liddell says. “What Chris was doing could be harsh, like coffee or whiskey, but he is the most honest writer I’ve ever heard in my life”. Chris Knight is sometimes dark, often intense and always without compromise. He is an artist that unfolds with the power and fury of Cormac McCarthy meets Copperhead Road.

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Chris Knight

At Capitol Theatre

theloaferonline.com | November 14, 2017

Thanksgiving 2017 Part One

Though it took me a number of years to admit it, I have come to terms with the fact that I am a perfectionist. There’s something about the holiday season, Thanksgiving specifically, that really amps up the feelings of wanting everything to look like it came out of a Martha Stewart magazine. Come early October, I begin to look over my back archive of various food publications to plot out the meal and plan the decor. But I’m lazy and I feel like I don’t need to take a bunch of fodder and make a centerpiece out of it, just to have the cat destroy it by mid-day.

Batteries Not Included

By Andy Ross aross@ theloaferonline.com

nce I’ve got half an idea of what I’m going to do, I can’t go forward without asking my friends and family if they are coming over. There are some people you know will show up no matter what, but I still like to check in and see if this is the year they decide to sit out Thanksgiving because they’re having their spleen cleaned. Half of the friends I asked are coming, as are a good number of family. In total there will be about sixteen guests coming. With this knowledge under my belt, I made a pot of strong coffee, and began to plan the evening with surgical like precision. This is where my perfectionism becomes a problem. Thanksgiving and most holidays do not, and should not require an itinerary down to the millisecond. After I had the first draft of the night written out, it looked like it was written by someone who wears jodhpurs and hits things with a riding crop. I had “guest will arrive at 6:00 SHARP!” on the list.” This was followed by “Drinks at 6:30, Meal at 7:00, Coffee at 9:45, Rook at 10:00, Manly games of Risk at midnight.” After I looked over this list, I realized that trying to keep up with this will only result in my friends wondering why the aliens stole me and replaced me with a clone and that no one would be around at midnight to witness my dramatic take over of Kamchatka. You see there was the infamous Thanksgiving of ten years ago where I had a meltdown in the kitchen. The turkey wasn’t done when it was supposed to have been, which would have given time for it to rest and the lone oven to be open for the duchess mashed potatoes I was

making. This threw off my plan, and I went into what my family calls “The Incident.” “The Incident” was when a family member came to ask me how the meal was coming. That’s what I do remember. What I don’t remember is what happened between them asking me that, and waking up in my bathtub covered in cranberry sauce and gravy. Now the progress I’ve made since then is that with all my planning and list making I do ahead of time, my perfectionist tendencies settle—mostly—by the time the big day comes. Once you know how many guests you can expect, you can start to lock down the menu, and calculate how many servings of each item you’ll need. Off to the grocery you go. Gathering the best quality ingredients you can, as ahead of time as possible, is key to making Thanksgiving successful. When grocery shopping there are several easy tests you can do to make sure you are getting the freshest ingredients. Let’s look at Cranberries, an essential part of Thanksgiving, as an example. Many people swear by the “Bounce Test” for testing Cranberries. Personally, I find the Bounce Test to be too time-consuming for this modern world we live in. Years of precise study and scientific evaluation have led to a better way. When looking over the Cranberries in the produce section, quickly shove as many of them in your mouth as you can, as quickly as possible. You’ll know their freshness by how fast the produce manager comes running over to yell at you. Next week, we’ll talk about the star of the meal, the turkey, and how you can keep calm as the big day gets closer. See you then.

By Paul Kavanaugh

It’s going to be another great music weekend at the Brewery. Syren plays Saturday night, bringing their high energy rock show to the Tri Cities.

his band simply says: “We come to bring the Rock!” Quite the simple statement but boy, are they right. Whitney Collins is the voice behind the great vocals and she is joined by Jesse Pitcock- Guitar & Vocals, Brian Foster- Guitar, Todd Mccoury- Bass and Chris Ritchie on Drums. Cover is only $5 for this rock-out performance. Need a place to hear great music on Friday night? The Brewery is still the place to go. Wise Old River is on the main stage. Wise Old River blends a variety of influences and instruments that combine tradition with originality. The group features vocalist/guitarist Jamen Denton (formerly of Virginia Ground and was recognized as best male vocalist by the GOTRICITES MUSIC AWARDS in 2005). Jeanne Denton provides well-crafted harmony vocals and occasional percussion. Steve Marshall provides a solid foundation on the “dog house” bass. Jim Denton adds acoustic lap steel, 12 string slide guitar, and bouzouki. Their sound has been described as “Eclectic-Americana.” Both of these bands give wonderful live performances, so head on out to Holston River Brewing this weekend – I guarantee you won’t be disappointed. Add in the good food, great beer, delicious cocktails and fan-friendly atmosphere and you have the makings of a couple great evenings. And don’t forget Ladies night on Thursdays – everything is half off for the gals from 5:00 – 8:00. See you out there!

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Plays Holston River Brewing Co. this Saturday, November 18th

Spotlight

theloaferonline.com | November 14, 2017

- TUESDAY - November 14th -

- THURSDAY - November 16th -

If you or your band are playing in the upcoming week and would like to be in The Spotlight, call in advance to (423) 283-4324 or go online to: theloaferonline.com. Due to last minute cancellations or changes, please call the location to confirm.

- SATURDAY - November 18th -

Downtown Country Jiggy Ray’s Pizzeria

Nostalgia Duo Rock’s Wood Fired Pizza & Grill

Below 7 O’Mainnin’s Pub

Syren Holston River Brewing Company

Stemwinder Rock’s Wood Fired Pizza & Grill

Open Talent Night Bears Bar

Live Music at Bone Fire Smokehouse

U Turn Bears Bar

Shooter Band Elizabethton Moose Lodge

Acoustifried Country Club Bar & Grill

Michael Reno Harrell Down Home

Nightshift Band Bristol Country Show Palace Silver Bullet Rio’s Grill & Sports Bar

- WEDNESDAY - November 15th -

- FRIDAY - November 17th -

Redleg Husky O’Mainnin’s Pub

Southern Rebellion Wild Wing Cafe

Acoustic Throw-Down Wild Wing Cafe

Indighost / Mind Modes The Hideaway

Doss Church/Condition Oakland Acoustic Coffeehouse

Rusty Steel Acoustic O’Mainnin’s Pub

Lord Nelson The Willow Tree Coffeehouse & Music Room

Bike Night Bears Bar

If Birds Could Fly Sleepy Owl Brewery

Chris Knight Capitol Theatre

Aaron Dingus Harvest Table Restaurant

Silver Bullet Kingsport Eagles

Alter’d State Sleepy Owl Brewery

Starlito Hogwild Saloon

Retroville Kingsport Eagles

Jamie Collins The Market

David Mayfield Bloom Cafe and Listening Room

Ryan Ward O’Mainnin’s Pub

Hip Gypsy Music Wolf Hills Brewing

Southern Countrymen Band Buffalo Ruritan

Jam w/ Ellis Waddell Wellington’s Restaurant

Jason Keiser Jazz Duo Acoustic Coffeehouse

Brandon Rohr Greeneville Moose Lodge

Live Music at Bone Fire Smokehouse

Broke-N-Busted Woodstone Deli

Sparrows Cottage The Nutty Java

Gerald Sheppard Blackbird Bakery

Live Music at Bone Fire Smokehouse

Sundown Band David Thompson’s Produce

Shake Yo MoneyMaker Model City Tap House

Wise Old River Holston River Brewing Company

Wyldeheart Holiday Inn (Exit 7)

Rusty Steel, Silent Stone, The Budz, Southern Rebellion, Hip Jypsy Wild Wing Cafe

Victor Lawson w/ Boogie Chillin’ Country Club Bar & Grill

Regeneration Johnson City Jam Acoustic Coffeehouse

- THURSDAY - November 16th -

Jake Moore / Chris Bryant Dustin Tolley The Hideaway

Arch Echo, Aviations, & Curses Capone’s Acoustic Jam Session Acoustic Coffeehouse

- SATURDAY - November 18th -

Secret Bleeders w/ Mega X and Bad Idols Capone’s

Live Music at Bone Fire Smokehouse Vaden “Papa Vay” Landers The Willow Tree Coffeehouse & Music Room

Quarter Bounce with Rusty Steel Woodstone Deli Live Music CJ’s Sports Bar

- SUNDAY - November 19th -

Scott Bianchi Acoustic Coffeehouse - TUESDAY - November 21st -

Downtown Country Jiggy Ray’s Pizzeria

Ryan Ward O'Mainnin's Pub Thursday, Nov. 16th

for show time & more details, visit

theloaferonline.com

Country Club Bar & Grill 3080 W State St Bristol 423-844-0400

Model City Tap House 324 E Market St. Kingsport 423-765-0875

Bear's Bar 4460 Highway 421 Bristol TN 423-502-1975

Holiday Inn (Exit 7) 3005 Linden Dr. Bristol VA 276-466-4100

Quaker Steak & Lube 629 State St. Bristol VA 276-644-9464

Bone Fire Smokehouse at the Hardware 260 W Main St Abingdon VA 276-623-0037

Holston River Brewing Company 2623 Volunteer Pkwy Bristol TN

Rock’s Wood Fired Pizza & Grill 3119 Bristol Hwy. Johnson City 423-262-0444

CJ’S Sports Bar 516 Morelock St. Kingsport 423-390-1361

Lakeview Marina 474 Lakeside Dock Drive Kingsport

TUESDAY

Karaoke w/ Crossroads & Josh Blevins at Dawg House Tavern Family Night Karaoke at CJ’s Sports Bar Karaoke w/ Marques at The Cave Karaoke at Numan’s ***********************

WEDNESDAY

Karaoke w/ Southern Sounds Karaoke at American Legion Karaoke at CJ’s Sports Bar Karaoke w/ DJ Brad & Top Shelf Entertainment at Quaker Steak & Lube

Sonny’s Marina & Café 109 One Street Gray, TN 423-282-9440

FRIDAY

Karaoke at Kingsport Moose Lodge Karaoke w/ Reverb Karaoke at The Cottage Turn the Page Karaoke at VFW Post 2108 - Johnson City TN Karaoke w/ Absolute Entertainment at Moe’s Original BBQ Karaoke w/ Toddzilla at Sportsmans Pub Karaoke w/ DJ Brad & Top Shelf Entertainment at BoBo’s - Damascus VA Karaoke at Elizabethton VFW

Karaoke w/ Absolute Entertainment at Smokey Bones - Johnson City TN

Karaoke w/ DJ Marquez & Top Shelf Entertainment at Holiday Inn (Exit 7) - Bristol VA

Turn the Page Karaoke at VFW Post 2108 - Johnson City TN ***********************

Karaoke at Numan’s ***********************

THURSDAY

Karaoke w/ Absolute Entertainment at Macado’s - Kingsport

SATURDAY

Karaoke at The Horseshoe Lounge

Karaoke at CJ’s Sports Bar

Karaoke w/ Toddzilla at Sportsmans Pub

Karaoke at Numan’s

Karaoke at Kingsport Moose Lodge

Karaoke w/ Absolute Entertainment at New Beginning’s

Turn the Page Karaoke at VFW Post 2108 - Johnson City TN

Karaoke at Jiggy Rays Pizzaria ***********************

Karaoke w/ Absolute Entertainment at Macado’s - Kingsport

Karaoke w/ Southern Sounds Karaoke at Sportsman’s Bar & Grill

Karaoke at Numan’s ***********************

FRIDAY

Karaoke w/ Shane Rouse at Bear’s Bar

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SPOTLIGHT DIRECTORY

KARAOKE

Acoustic Coffeehouse 415 W Walnut St. Johnson City 423-434-9872

theloaferonline.com | November 14, 2017

Geminid Meteor Shower

A Good One

Catch a falling star and put it in your pocket Never let it fade away Catch a falling star and put it in your pocket Save it for a rainy day written by Paul Vance and Lee Pockriss, sung by Perry Como

Somewhere lurking in the Solar System are thick swarms of meteoroids, and when the Earth plows through them like bugs on a windshield, they burn up in our atmosphere as meteor. And if you’re lucky enough, you might pick up a piece on the ground as a meteorite, or put one in your pocket that you buy from a reputable vendor.

T Stargazer

By Mark Marquette since 1996 stargazermarq@ gmail.com

his week our Earth is in the part of its trip around the Sun where it encounters such a swarm of meteoroids that appear to be the remnants of Comet TempelTuttle. Friday night/Saturday morning (Nov. 17/18) we are in the thickest part of the debris stream circling the Earth and “shooting stars” will be plenty—up to 60 an hour at peak. Like snowflakes hitting a car windshield, the meteors seem to be traced back to one point in the sky, and this meteor shower comes out of the constellation Leo the Lion, and thus the Leonid Meteor Shower. But this meteor “radiant” is just an illusion caused by the direction Earth is circling the Sun in our 600-million-mile celestial racetrack. Like snowflakes or raindrops in the headlights of a car, the meteors seem to be coming out of a focal point ahead. Meteor showers are named after the constellation where the “radiant” of a meteor shower appears to come from. The Leonid meteor shower in mid-November is one of the big three of the year, the other two being the Geminid shower in late December and the Perseid shower in mid-August. The Perseid Meteor Shower is the most famous because of the summertime date. But the Geminid and Leonid showers consistently outperform the Perseids in meteors per hour. The Geminids are the strongest shower of the year at 50-60 meteors an hour, but the peak is the few days before Christmas and people are too busy to look up. While the top three meteor showers all produce more than 30 meteors an hour at their peak, there are several meteor showers each month, with 5-10 meteors an hour. Many of these are worth watching as the hours of their peak can have some dramatic meteors. And it is always best to see meteors after midnight until dawn as that part of Earth is facing into cosmic debris. The upcoming Leonid shower is the one that turns into a meteor storm every 33 years, the last time in 1999 when dozens of meteors a minute—a thousand an hour—fell to Earth just like in 1966 and 1933. That’s because we went through the thickest part of the comet debris. Mark your calendars for the 2032 Leonid Meteor Storm! Every night there are stray meteors that unpredictably cut the night. These are just meteoroid interlopers traveling around the Solar System, minding their own business until the Earth sweeps them up. The best times to see meteors are in moonless skies and after midnight when our part of Earth is facing forward in our solar orbit—like looking out the front of a car instead of the back. Incredibly, each day more than 10 tons—20,000 pounds—of cosmic debris lands on the Earth! The void of space is filled with billions of tiny objects the size of salt or sand

grains and more billions and billions of micro-meteoroids invisible like dust. On the Moon during billions of years, the micro-meteoroids have beat down the mountains and created a fluffy soil called “regolith” that can be a foot or more thick like snow. Earth’s atmosphere is responsible for the light show of shooting stars we see. With a meteoroid typically traveling 30,000 mph, when the sand grain-sized objects hits the dense atmosphere, friction burns it up at 5,000 degrees F. and we see light. We call our media weather forecasters meteorologists because the ancient Greeks thought the stones from space were part of our atmosphere, their word “meteron” meaning “of the air.” Though rare, larger meteoroids an inch or more might survive the quick dash through our atmosphere and make it to the ground, and we call them meteorites. And they can look just like regular earthly rocks. So how do you know if you have a meteor right or a meteor wrong. There are several meteor types of meteorites made from iron and combinations of stone and metal. So, the first test is a magnet, and if a stone clings to it chances are you have a meteorite. But any science center can help confirm or discount whether you have a rock from space. Meteorites are very affordable and are sold for $5-15 per gram. There are many reputable dealers, but if you go to an Internet auction or personal vendor, buyer beware. Of course, like antique baseball cards, there are some meteorites that are more desirable than others for their fame or location where found. There are also meteorites ejected from the Moon, Mars and asteroids! Meteoroids are much smaller than asteroids, but that distinction is a technical one as plenty of rocky bodies the size of football fields are found whizzing around Earth. And an asteroid a few miles across could cause widespread devastation. Just look at the Moon and every solid body in the Solar System—intensely peppered with impacts from asteroids and meteorites. So, it is just a matter time until Earth gets hit by a large, catastrophic piece of cosmic debris. Until then, enjoy the upcoming Leonid and Geminid meteor showers. And keep hoping Earth dodges the Big One!

meteor shower, two morning planets merging, a Moon landing celebration and the first hints of Winter constellations are all happening this week.

Tuesday, November 14 From 6-6:30 am the two brightest planets merge as nearly one just above the eastern horizon. Venus and Jupiter are so close they look like one brilliant star before separating during the next days, Jupiter headed high in the morning stars while Venus is sinking toward the Sun to reappear in the west after sunset this Winter.s to the north while Vega in Lyra the harp sets directly west by 11 pm.

Earth is facing into the swarm of debris caused by Comet Tempel-Tuttle. No special equipment is needed, just some patience while scanning the skies in a lawn chair—and some warm clothing! Saturday, November 18 This will be truly the last moonless time to see the Milky Way as it arcs overhead in the west and sets around 11 pm. At that time bright stars Vega and Deneb are striking against the horizon.

Wednesday, November 15 The bright star Capella is surprising to see above the northeast horizon around 9 pm, surprising because it is so brilliant among the Sunday, November 19 faint stars of Cepheus the King, a constellation that looks loosely like On this 1969 date in space history Apollo 12 safely landed on the Moon. Commander Pete Conrad, deceased, maneuvered the lander called Intrepid to the edge of football fielda house. sized crater where the Surveyor 1 spacecraft was waiting after landing two and one-half years earlier. The other moonwalker, Alan Bean, 85, came back from the mission to later Thursday, November 16 Looking north at around 9 pm the next two weeks is interesting. command the second Skylab Space Station mission. Orbiting the Moon in the Command Cassiopeia is looking like an “M” directly above Polaris, the North Module Yankee Clipper was Dick Gordon, who died Nov. 7, 2017 at age 88. Bean is an Pole star. Bookending Polaris are two bright stars, Vega setting in accomplished artist, painting huge murals of his space experience that sell for tens of thousands of dollars. the west and Capella to the right, or east Friday, November 17 This evening and Saturday morning is the peak for the Leonid Meteor Shower, and there should be several dozen an hour to see. The best time is 3 am (Sunday night/Monday morning) when the

Monday, November 20 On this 1998 date in space history, Russian launched the Zarya module, the first element of the International Space Station. Now finished and continuously occupied for nearly 17 years, the ISS has become a familiar site in our skies.

19 theloaferonline.com | November 14, 2017

THIS WEEK

SKIES

Celestial events in the skies for the week of Nov. 14-20, 2017 as compiled for The Loafer by Mark D. Marquette.

theloaferonline.com | November 14, 2017

Smoky Mountain

Christmas

As I have mentioned in my column before, every so often I will be touching on pop culture events outside the movie theater.

R Pop Life

By Ken Silvers ksilvers@ theloaferonline.com

ecently I had the opportunity to venture to the land of sparkling Christmas fun at Dollywood with the kickoff of Dollywood's Smoky Mountain Christmas running from now until January 1, 2018. While Dollywood is always a magical place to visit, the feeling of warmth and hospitality is always cranked up during the Christmas season. If you visit the park during the Christmas event, you will see why Dollywood's Smoky Mountain Christmas won its tenth consecutive Amusement Today's Golden Ticket Award. When I recently visited the park I was able to hear Dolly tell about exciting events coming to the park in 2018 and see a preview of the show "It's a Wonderful Life." The musical is based on the film of the same name and follows the story of small town businessman George Bailey as he discovers the true value of life with the help of his guardian angel Clarence. The show is filled with wonderful performances by the cast and features a wide range of songs including "From a Distance" and "Money Makes the World Go Round." The production is like a mini Broadway show, and is on the must see list when visiting the park. Other Christmas shows playing at the park include "Christmas in the Smokies", which is serving as the headline show in D.P.'s Celebrity Theater. In addition to those shows, I can also recommend " 'Twas the Night Before Christmas", "An Appalachian Christmas" and "Oh Holy Night" when visiting the park. If you are a fan of Rudolph The Red-Noised Reindeer, you will certainly want to make the journey to Rudolph's

POPLIFE continued on page 27

theloaferonline.com | November 14, 2017

A Year of

Entertainment “I'm dreaming of a white Christmas, just like the ones I used to know. Where the treetops glisten and children listen to hear sleigh bells in the snow. I’m dreaming of a white Christmas with every Christmas card I write. May your days be merry and bright, and may all of your Christmases be white”. Ahh, the sounds of Christmas, the smell of hot chocolate, and Dolly Parton making another public appearance to officially announce Dollywood’s largest entertainment investment in history!

W Appalachian Wanderers

By Jason & Daniel Worley jdworley@ theloaferonline.com

hile Dolly herself was on hand at Dollywood last week to provide media a sneak peek of the current Christmas festival at Dollywood, she also unveiled what she called “A Season of Showstoppers”, for Dollywood’s 33rd anniversary season. While Dollywood has long been known as “The Entertainment Capital of the South”, Dolly announced an entertainment lineup which represents an investment $1 Million greater that any season long entertainment schedule in the park’s history. Headlining the 2018 performances we will see The Marshall Tucker Band, The Drifters, T.G. Sheppart, Suzy Bogguss, Atlanta Rhythm Section, Crystal Gayle, Ladysmith Black Mambazo and a host of other awardwinning artists. “Music is the universal language that unites all of us,” Dolly explained. “It celebrates our people, our families and our communities. I’ve made music my life’s work because I feel each and every one of us has a special song to sing. I’ve made sure that here at my Dollywood, we use music to encourage and inspire those songs in each and every one of our shows”. Dollywood’s 2018 entertainment roster reads like the nomination list from an awards ceremony. A range of performers, from CMA Hall of Fame members to emerging artist, ensure there is something for everyone. Combined, the headline artist performing at Dollywood in 2018 have 42 gold albums, 18 platinum albums, 30 Grammys, 14 Country Music Association Awards, 10 American Country Music Awards, five American Music Association Awards and 62 Dove Awards. It will all begin with Dollywood’s Festival of Nations which includes headliners National Dance Company of Siberia, The Flamenco Kings Starring Los Vivancos, and Ladysmith Black Mambazo. Hailing from South Africia, Ladysmith Black Mambazo, who worked with Dolly on her 1996 album Treasures, has teamed with Paul Simon, Sarah McLachlan, Emmylou Harris and many more. April will bring something new with three weeks of stellar performances during the all-new Spring Mix music series. Dollywood guest can expect performances by Dollywood entertainment alumnus Bogguss, Sheppard, Pam Tillis, Gayle, Connie Smith and Shenandoah during the first week of the event. The second weeks plays host to artist such as Amy Grant, The Blind Boys of Alabama, Larnelle Harris, David Phelps and comedienne Chonda Pierce, also known as, “The Queen of Clean”. Classic artist like The Marshall Tucker Band, The Drifters, Debby Boone, The Atlanta Rhythm Section, Firefall, and Al Stewart entertain park guest during the final week of the event. Keep watch for individual concert dates and show times. Already one of the nation’s best bluegrass events, Dollywood’s Barbeque & Bluegrass adds an extra week of concerts from the biggest names in the business. Guest should expect hundreds of live bluegrass performances during the festival

Cast from one of Dollywood's Award-winning shows

with headline shows from Grammy and IBMA winner Rhonda Vincent & The Rage, and IMBA winners Doyle Lawson and Quicksilver, Dailey & Vincent and many more. Anyone who has been to Dollywood during the summer knows there is plenty to keep you busy until that nightly fireworks show at 10PM, but now, the list is even longer! Families have a multitude of world renowned options to keep them entertained during the Dollywood’s Summer Celebration. Illuminate, finalist on America’s Got Talent in 2011, bring their electrified glow-in-the-dark costumes to DP’s Celebrity Theater to perform dynamic dance routines and illusions to thrill guest. Summer 2018 will also see international touring sensation DRUMLine Live! visit

WANDERERS continued on page 26

theloaferonline.com | November 14, 2017

ome out and support the Food Truck Junction! They'll be located in the Sears Auto Parking lot! This will be in conjunction with the mall’s Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony! Free Admission. Kid Friendly.

Escape This

Saturday, November 18 • 12-8pm The Mall at Johnson City

Festivals

Got an event coming up?

Events

Send it to The Loafer! info@theloaferonline.com

Concerts

Exhibits

Escape Rooms at the Johnson City Public Library.

he Johnson City Public Library will host a series of escape rooms in the Jones Meeting Room on Saturday, November 18. Escape rooms encourage participants to use their skills of critical thinking, problem solving and cooperation to piece together clues to escape within an hour. The escape room for tweens aged 10-12 years old is titled Alien Invasion and will start at 10:30 a.m. A family escape room for parents with younger children called Turkey Trouble will begin at 12:30 p.m. Teens aged 13-18 can participate in the Ad Agent escape room starting at 2:30 p.m. Adults 18 and older are invited to escape the Totally Radical ‘80s Time Travel Adventure at 4:30 p.m. Registration is required for these four escape rooms and can be completed by calling Youth Services at 423-434-4458 or Adult Services at 423-434-4454 or by visiting the Event Calendar at www.jcpl.org. To learn more about this and other upcoming events, like the library’s Facebook page, or follow the library on Twitter or Instagram.

theloaferonline.com | November 14, 2017

MAJ Alan W. Bagley: The Interview

Have you ever met someone, made friends in one capacity and then find out other things about them? That can be good or bad. Let me assure you in this case it has been a really cool surprise. MAJ Alan Bagley and I met away from his role with the Tennessee Guard so I had no idea about that role in his life. This is a great guy who serves and takes it to a whole new level. Read up on the Major, you will be glad you did. BRIAN: Alan thanks for taking the time to talk with me so folks can know more about you. Start at the beginning. Where did you grow up and what was that like? ALAN: Being raised in Church Hill, I quickly learned that living in a more rural community was exhilarating. I could immediately enjoy nature and a slower paced life wrapped in tradition, but I was only a short drive away from taking advantage of a more metropolitan area.

Mountain Movers

By Brian Bishop bbishop@ theloaferonline.com

BRIAN: You could obviously live anywhere you choose with your skill set. What is it about this region and these people that make you want to continue to call this place home? ALAN: I’ve travelled to so many different places with different geographies, politics, cultures, and people. Even though some areas are great to visit; they often remind me that being born and living in the Tri-Cities is truly a blessing. This area has a community spirit, culture, and values that are second-tonone. The people are truly outstanding and are willing to volunteer and help one another. I can’t imagine living and raising our Daughter anywhere else. BRIAN: When we talk about this region, family roots run deep. I know you and family is a major part of who you are and what you are all about. Can you talk a little about what they mean to you? ALAN: Once again, I was blessed to have awesome parents and siblings that taught me loyalty, responsibility, and love. I received a second family when I married Patti, gaining my second set of parents and new siblings that accepted me as true family. I initially stayed in the area to care for my parents as they aged. After my parents passed, I vowed to stay here to allow Ellie’s living grandparents almost daily access in her life. Patti’s parents had wonderfully raised three girls, and played a huge role in our daughter’s development. Today, I am anchored and supported by Patti and Ellie, they are truly responsible for continued success and encouraging me. My activities and responsibilities often keep me away from them and missing important family events, but they are incredibly supportive. They give me a reason to never give up. BRIAN: Faith is another major factor in our regional identity. How does your faith impact your daily life? ALAN: I can’t remember a time that God wasn’t a part of my life. Mother would dress me and take us to worship, even as a toddler. Family, faith, and duty are capstones to my character. I have not been the poster boy in portraying the Christian faith, but God is faithful if we trust in Him. After searching extensively for a home church, we found one and enjoy involvement. Patti and I wanted to raise Ellie in church, as we were. The Bible says to raise children properly and they won’t stray too far in their life. BRIAN: And finally, let’s talk about the Tennessee Guard. I met you as just good ole Alan from work. However, I quickly came to the realization that you are very involved with the Tennessee guard and do a lot of work in

that capacity. Tell folks like me who aren’t very educated about it what the Tennessee Guard is all about. ALAN: Tennessee’s State Guard is a component of the Military Department of Tennessee. This all-volunteer group is used as a force multiplier for the National Guard. However, TNSG Soldiers can’t be deployed for military use outside the state. Our core missions deal with disaster management and recovery. We are a sworn military organization and soldiers wear the uniforms of the Army. Civilians who never had the opportunity to serve in a federal military capacity now have the chance to join; and Federal veterans, who often long for the camaraderie and stability that the military provides, find a home in TNSG. We have soldiers that are 18 years old all the way to those in their 60s, and the physical standards are substantially relaxed. This bunch of men and women are some of the best souls and giving spirits I have ever worked with. They truly care about each other and the completion of the mission. TNSG soldiers come from all walks of life and all vocations and professions; there is a place for everyone to serve. We train one day a month and have one three-day annual training as a minimum. Our motto is ‘Tennesseans helping Tennesseans’. We know that we must be at our best when Tennessee is having its worse day. I have the privilege of commanding a Battalion of these Tennessee Volunteers; and am proud to be a servantleader amongst these fine folks.

theloaferonline.com | November 14, 2017

Join us November 17, 2017 for this season's Garic Stephens and Lavelle Manufacturing FW Fashion Show presented by the Bristol Train Station.

he doors open up at 7:00pm where guests will nosh on handcrafted desserts and champagne by Amy Smith. At 7:45pm, guests will be sent upstairs to the main level of the Bristol Train Station to grab a seat and prepare for a full fashion show and presentation to start at 8:00pm. This event will debut new FW collections by both Garic Stephens and Lavelle which will include ready-to-wear, jewelry and accessories. The show will start off with a special appearance from local dancer Annalee Tull who will serenade guests during the viewing of the new fall collection. After the show is over, guests can stick around and meet the designer and preview the entire collection

“

done yet! Dollywood’s 2018 season will end with America’s favorite theme park holiday event, Smoky Mountain Christmas that has been voted as best theme park Christmas event for a decade now. Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas features more than four million lights, classical holiday entertainment including Christmas in the Smokies and It’s a Wonderful Life, as well as other favorites such as Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer and Friends and the heartwarming Parade of Many Colors. In 2017, Dollywood won the Golden Ticket from Amusement Today for Best Entertainment at any theme park in the world. The honor was the ninth consecutive triumph for the park in that category. With Dolly’s commitment to entertainment in 2018, we think Dollywood is on their way to securing its 10th victory in this category! So, rest up this winter and great ready for a foot stomping, show stopping, family of entertainment only at Dollywood in 2018!

I love The Loafer! Andrew G.

Discounts available with ticket stub day of performance

the park with riveting rhythms, bold beats and eargrabbing energy. Developed by the consultants of the hit 2002 movie, Drumline, the band featured in this exhilarating show creates a synchronized musical masterpiece. Dollywood’s popular Rock the Smokies moves to August 25th with Toby Mac and Crowder serving as headliners. Multiple contemporary Christian artist perform through the park during this exciting conclusion to the summer. Dollywood’s Harvest Festival provides more fall family fun with the expansion of the new guest favorite Great Pumpkin LumiNights, as well as the largest Southern Gospel event in America. During the festival, several hundred performances by Southern Gospel royalty take place during the day, while at night, thousands of carved pumpkins illuminate the dark with an expanded number of displays and activities for families to enjoy. Still not tired? Well that’s good because we aren’t

Paramount Partners

theloaferonline.com | November 14, 2017

26 WANDERERS continued from page 22

• Bristol Station Brews & Taproom Half off first pint or flight • Broad Street on State 20% off your check of $6 or more • Stateline Bar & Grille 2 for 1 Appetizers • Studio Brew 1/2 Half off first pint Free Appetizer or dessert w/Entrée Purchase • Machiavelli’s Free order of breadsticks with any entrée • Whiskey Rebellion Half off your appetizer • J Frank Free dessert and immediate parking Discounts valid for all performances of Annie.

Helmets and gloves would be a good idea but are not going to be required. We will be working on a prize for the winner maybe some wheels or something. Trying to have pizza and possibly a raffle for more prizes depending on how many people come out. Please RSVP at: tinyurl.com/y7mujekn and invite your friends.

Sunday, November 19 at 12 PM - 3 PM Willow Springs Park 1201 Huffine Rd, Johnson City

POPLIFE continued from page 20 Holly Jolly Junction for some fun with Rudolph and friends. In this area you can even decorate custom Christmas cookies. For those who enjoy a parade, make time to see the Parade of Many Colors, which features lighted floats and interactive characters. Of course you can't visit Dollywood over the holidays without eating at one of the yummy restaurants, or at least trying some gingerbread man cookies or red velvet and pumpkin spice cakes. Oh did I mention a new sure to be hot item at the park is the Thanksgiving Feast sandwich? This mouthwatering delight is a ciabatta roll filled with cornbread dressing, slices of oven-roasted turkey breast, topped with cranberry sauce and served with sweet potato tater tots. So you can watch a show, then grab and meal or snack, and enjoy the four million lights while walking to another show. I have no doubt some or all of the aforementioned has enticed you to visit "American's Favorite Christmas Event" at Dollywood between now and January 1st. I look forward to a return visit to the park and plan on enjoying the new turkey sandwich while hanging out with Rudolph and friends. For hours and more information visit www.dollywood.com or call 1-800-DOLLYWOOD.

27 theloaferonline.com | November 14, 2017

Willow Springs Path Race

irst annual longboard race in Johnson City. Trying to build the longboard community around the Tricities and get more people to come together . This race will be geared towards people new to the sport and intermediate riders. Basically just a chance for you to come have fun and meet other longboarders.

theloaferonline.com | November 14, 2017

Answers on page 30

Fresca is a 4 year old hound lab mix. This sweet girl has been at the shelter for a couple of years. She is a wonderful loving dog who deserves a great home!

Goldie is a beautiful and sweet girl and so friendly. She loves people and other dogs!

he Bridge Home has an ongoing aluminum can can collection in front of the shelter at 2061 Hwy 75 in Blountville,TN 37617. The cans are collected by a volunteer and the money from the aluminum goes towards badly needed food and supplies for the animals. The Bridge Home No Kill Animal Rescue has started a pet food pantry for people that have had financial hardships because of job loss or medical problems and are struggling to feed their pet. They can come by the shelter and get cat or dog food to get through the tough time. Donations can be sent to The Bridge Home Shelter PO Box 654 Blountville, TN

37617 Every animal in their care is spayed or neutered and fully vaccinated before being adopted. Being a non profit the shelter is funded entirely by membership dues and private donations. They always need volunteers or monetary donations. Other always needed items:pet food, cat litter & cat toys dog treats & dog toys,paper towels, cleaners, office supplies,Purina weight circles. Phone: 423-239-5237 Hours are Mon-Fri 12pm-6pm Sat 12pm3pm and Sun 2pm-4pm. Website is www. bridgehomerescue@gmail.com or like them on Facebook: www.Facebook.com/ bridgehome

theloaferonline.com | November 14, 2017

PETS

OF THE WEEK

theloaferonline.com | November 14, 2017

THINGS TO DO Holiday Expo & Craft Bazaar November 17 & 18, D. P. Culp Center, 3rd Level 9:00 - 5:00. Open to Public, Students, Staff & Faculty. Vendors selling handmade items, Christmas items, independent consultants, etc. Door Prizes and Silent Auction. Admission is a donation requested - either monetary or a personal hygiene item that will be donated to our on-campus pantry - Bucky's Pantry (helps our needy students)All proceeds from booth fees and admission will benefit our Student Veterans. ETSU has more than 500 student veterans attending school on Military benefits. For more information, please contact Debbie Bays 423-439-6848 or 423-416-4820, Rachel Fogg $23-439-7161 •••••••••••••••••••••••••• Blood Drive Marsh Regional Blood Center will conduct public blood drives at the area locations. Visit http:// tinyurl.com/n4aujx9 to find a location near you. In addition to scheduled blood drives, donors are welcome at Marsh Regional’s collection centers: 111 W. Stone Drive, Suite 300, Kingsport, 2428 Knob Creek Road, Johnson City and 1996 W. State St., Bristol. For more information about scheduling a blood drive at a local business, church, school or community organization, please call 423-408-7500, 423-652-0014 or 276679-4669 or visit marshblood.com. •••••••••••••••••••••••••• The Casual Word Adult Creative Writing Class Join us for a free, fun, engaging, and different look into writing. In this class, we will not focus on structure, form, or rules, but on the freedom of writing. It is the goal of this class to open the

plus some extra features that you Food Pantry. The foods needed and pet treats. Lunch is available might not know about. Questions are assorted canned food items from 11:30-1:30 (Baked Ziti, salad, are welcome from participants. (fruit, vegetables, meat, etc.), dried dessert and drink for $8 per plate). Bring your own phone to the beans, cereal, peanut butter, rice Admission is free. For more inforclass, if you have one. All ages are and pasta, cereals, boxed dinners. mation, call (423) 245-5187, or visitwelcome. Call the library at 423- Also included are baby formula and stpaulskingsport.org and Facebook 477-1550 for more information or baby food. Remember, we cannot @StPaulsBazaar. mind to its full creative potential to register. accept glass containers, perishable •••••••••••••••••••••••••• by allowing participants to write food, or out-of-date items. •••••••••••••••••••••••••• what they want, how they want to Both libraries are also doing a Pet Holiday Expo & Craft Bazaar write it. Sessions will be student Get ready for holiday season Food for Fines drive. Donations The Student Veterans of America lead; we will engage in topics and with Carved will go to Good Samaritan Min- (SVA) at ETSU is hosting a Holiday subjects that are of interest to Join Senior Services at Memo- istries Pet Food Pantry. We can Expo and Craft Bazaar on Friday and the students. The atmosphere is rial Park Community Center, 510 accept canned cat/dog food, cat Saturday, Nov. 17-18, from 9 a.m. to casual and jovial. This class is de- Bert St., for Carved, an hour-long litter, bagged food (small bags pre- 5 p.m. in the D.P. Culp University signed for all those 18 and up who body-weight workout designed to ferred), treats, and potty- pads. No Center Ballroom (third floor). The event is open to the public and will wish to try their hand at creative boost metabolism for ages 50 and open packages please! writing. Thursdays @ 6:00 p.m. older. Classes will be held from For each qualified item donated, feature about 40 vendors ranging Jones Creativity Center. Bristol 8:30-9:30 a.m. on Nov. 17. Cost is $1.00 in fines will be forgiven. Pay- from handmade gifts to popular Public Library. $2 per person. Sign in at MPCC ment for lost or damaged library clothing and beauty items, as well as kitchen tools, and food. prior to each class. For more in- materials and processing fees are •••••••••••••••••••••••••• Admission is free for ETSU stuformation, call 423-434-6237. not included in the program. dents and all others are encourTurkey Shoot ‘fowl’ shot •••••••••••••••••••••••••• aged to bring a personal hygiene •••••••••••••••••••••••••• Do you have what it takes to win item for Bucky’s Food Pantry or a a holiday turkey? The Turkey Shoot Food for Fines & Pet Food Christmas Bazaar monetary donation to benefit the “fowl” shot competition will be held for Fines Saint Paul’s Church in Kingsport SVA. On Friday, Nov. 17, parking for at 3 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 16 at The Washington County Library will hold its 9th annual Christmas the public will be available in Lot 22 Memorial Park Community Center, is again accepting donations of Bazaar Nov. 18, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. (behind Earth Fare) and Lot 9 (cor510 Bert St. The winners in two age food for area food banks during Featuring hand-made gift items ner of State of Franklin and Univergroups (11-14 and 15 and older) will the month of November in lieu of and holiday décor, the bazaar sup- sity Parkway). Visitors may take the take home a bird for the family feast. collecting fines for overdue mateports community ministries in- red route Buc Shot bus to the Culp This is a free event. Please register in rials. The Jonesborough Library cluding St. Paul's Food Pantry and Center. On Saturday, Nov. 18, camperson at MPCC. For more informa- will be donating their collections project “Laundry Love.” Come early pus parking will be open to all visition, call 423-434-5758. to the Jonesborough Area Minis- for the biggest ever Jewelry Booth tors. For more information, contact terial Association’s Food Pantry with gently used jewelry, and best- Debbie Bays at buckles@etsu.edu. •••••••••••••••••••••••••• (JAMA). The Gray Library is collect- selling food items including baked For disability accommodations, Get ready for holiday season ing for the Gray Community Chest goods, homemade frozen soups call 423-439-8346. with Carved Join Senior Services at MemoCryptogram: Conquering any difficulty always gives one a secret joy, for it means pushing back a boundary-line rial Park Community Center, 510 and adding to one's liberty. Bert St., for Carved, an hour-long DropQuote: "If Columbus had turned back, no one would have blamed him. Of course, no one would have body-weight workout designed to remembered him either." boost metabolism for ages 50 and older. Classes will be held from 8:30-9:30 a.m. on Nov. 17. Cost is $2 per person. Sign in at MPCC prior to each class. For more information, call 423-434-6237. •••••••••••••••••••••••••• Android Tech Class Does your Android smart phone make you feel less than smart? Will you be purchasing one for someone on your Christmas list? If so, come to the next tech class at Gray Library, at 4:30 p.m., Nov. 16. This class will focus on the basics of Android smart phones,

Conversations The inspiration for this week’s column comes from ten-year-old Brock Tierney, a local entrepreneur who sells Mason Jars filled to the brim with folded pieces of squiggly multicolored card stock containing thought-provoking questions--what Tierney calls “Canned Conversation.”

Kelly’s Place

By Jim Kelly since 1989 jkelly@ theloaferonline.com

hile this idea is not entirely new, Tierney is keeping alive an important skill in this fakenews-filled world--the simple skill of being curious. Every time one of these pieces of paper is unfolded, we are given a welcome opportunity to engage in conversation, either with ourselves or with anyone who happens to be in the room with us. This past week I have been passing the jar around in my history and humanities classes and the results have been very gratifying. So, I want to share some of these conversations with you. I’m going to reach inside Tierney’s jar and pull our five random questions that will hopefully make both of us think a little more deeply about the possible answers. Admittedly this is a different way to write my column, and I am looking forward to the results. Although you have no way to verify this, I have no prior idea which questions I will pull from the jar. Call this a spontaneous column if you like, because I intend to make up things as I go. Are you ready? CANNED CONVERSATION #1: “What is the best advice you ever received?” Call me old-fashioned, but I have tried for many years to follow the advice people from my 1960s generation were given. And that is “Never trust anyone over 30.” Given the fact that people over thirty haven’t done a very good job of running our world, maybe it’s time to give younger people a chance. Nothing ventured, nothing gained. CANNED CONVERSATION #2: “How do you turn a bad day into a good day?” Whenever I have a bad day (and there are many variations of what a bad day is), I watch a Marx Brothers movie, or at least some of my favorite excerpts from those wonderfully anarchic movies from the 1930s and early 1940s. Who can have a bad day while watching “A Night At The Opera,” particularly the justly-famous and very zany stateroom scene? If you have never seen a Marx Brothers movie, don’t delay. Life is short, and even shorter when Harpo wields his ever-present scissors. CANNED CONVERSATION #3: “What is the best part of the day?” How interesting--a question that seems like a logical companion to the previous one. As corny as it might sound, I think the best part of any day is the current moment. Think about it. The current moment is really all we have, so let’s make the best of it. Yes, I know this is the kind of thing you generally hear at leadership and mindfulness (i.e. mindless) presentations, but that doesn’t make it fake news. We should indeed be grateful for the time we have right now. As Carly Simon said in her 1971 song, “Anticipation,” these are indeed the good old days. CANNED CONVERSATION #4: “What do you think is at the end of the rainbow?” Perhaps only I would immediately think of Earl Grant’s hit song from 1958, “The End,” that contains the following lyrics, among others:

“At the end of a rainbow, You’ll find a pot of gold At the end of a story You’ll find it’s all been told But our love has a treasure Our hearts always spend And it has a story without any end” --lyrics and music by Jimmy Krondes, Sid Jacobson As an aspiring young organist during the mid-1960s, I was fascinated by Earl Grant’s Hammond Organ technique and tone, and, in those days before the advent of portable keyboards, the way he was able to play the organ and piano at the same time. So, I quite understandably answer this question with “The End” by Earl Grant. And this answer can spin off into a discussion about American popular music, as well as death by automobile (Grant died in an car crash outside Las Vegas in 1970). At this point, we might cue in a diversionary discussion about Mikita Brottman’s provocative and one-of-a-kind anthology, CAR CRASH CULTURE (2002). CANNED CONVERSATION #5: “Would you rather play in a creek or in an ocean?” This is a question about seeing possibilities in the world around us, or not around us depending on where we live. For me, the creek is much more imaginative than the ocean, primarily because I grew up at my parents’ motel and restaurant (the namesake of this column) and have fond memories of playing in the creek behind our motel. In those pre-smartphone days, the creek functioned as my app, a place where I could explore the possibilities inherent in a small stream of water lined with rocks and weeds, the places that often were home to fish, crawdads, and snakes. My love of throwing rocks began along that creek bank, and when I first saw the ocean I was somewhat disappointed that seemed rather dull alongside the world represented by my own private creek. Although I love the sound of the ocean, it doesn’t compare to the way our creek made every night sound like a rainy one when I opened the windows of my room. I am not a nostalgic person, but I do tend to wax nostalgic when revisiting that creek in my mind. I’ll close with a bonus question: “What is your favorite form of transportation?” My immediate response is “Books.” Books have always transported me to places that have defined who I am. From my fondness for the irreverence of “Mad” magazine that meant more to me than what I was supposed to be learning in school, to the book I happen to be reading now (Edward O. Wilson’s THE ORIGINS OF CREATIVITY), books ultimately led me to this column, and the journey continues. Here’s hoping your will have your own canned conversations this week. I am grateful that Brock Tierney saved me from writer’s block this week. See you next week.

theloaferonline.com | November 14, 2017

In A Jar

theloaferonline.com | November 14, 2017