The Loafer April 12th by The Loafer

BMS Offers “Dale Jr. Sandwich”

Hypnopalooza Returns to Northeast State

2 | April 12, 2016 | theloaferonline.com

It’s race day bristol!

Volume 30 • Issue #19

happenings

Publisher Luci Tate Editor Graphic Arts Director Don Sprinkle

Peyton Manning Headlines Food City 500

Food City Race Night

Cover Design Bill May

Chase Elliot Mtn Dew Tailgate at Food City 500

BMS Race Weekend Schedule

Advertising Dave Carter Terry Patterson Lori Howell Beth Jinks-Ashbrook Patti Barr

Bill Goldberg Reigns Over Driver Introductions

Contributing Staff Jim Kelly Andy Ross Ken Silvers Mark Marquette Brian McManus Joshua Hicks Brian Bishop

11 The Doobie Brothers Rockin’ Pre-Race Concert

columns & reviews

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

All advertisements are accepted and published by the publisher upon the representation that the agency and/or advertiser

Stargazer - Active Jupiter Alway A Thrill

Skies This Week

Batteries Not Included - Changing Weezers

Pop Life - The Flash

KTG presents “Agnes of God”

Kingsport Ballet Prepares for Swan Lake

Popovich Comedy Pet Theater at NPAC

Musical Entertainment at Food City 500

Dolly Says ........

32 Trivial Traveler - The Changing Face of The Presidency

www.theloaferonline.com info@theloaferonline.com e-mail: editorial@theloaferonline.com (editorial) adcopy@theloaferonline.com (advertising)

Pets of the Week

Kelly’s Place - The Internet Of Us

Shelby Lee Lowe

at Earhart Campground Friday, April 15th@ 5:30p Saturday, April 16 @ 10:30am

is authorized to publish the entire contents and subject matter thereof.

Abingdon Farmers Market’s Opening Day

Forlorn Strangers at Bone Fire

Fitgerald Glider Kits Sponsors Dash 4 Cash Heat Racing

Contra Dance in Jonesborough

Abingdon Celebrates wth Town-Wide Spring Fling

The agency and/or advertiser will indemnify and save the publisher harmless from any loss

40 Things To Do

of 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

music & fun 22

Spotlight - Great Music & Fun Times

Puzzle Page

Classifieds

Editiors Note: Last weeks article “Dollywood Festival of Nations 2016” was written by Ken Silvers theloaferonline.com | April 12, 2016 | 3

NATIONWIDE SPOKESMAN

PEYTON MANNING

HEADLINES FOOD CITY 500 AT BRISTOL MOTOR SPEEDWAY

ennessee’s proverbial hometown football hero, Peyton Manning, has been named Honorary Race Official of the Food City 500, April 17, at Bristol Motor Speedway. This will be Manning’s first NASCAR experience courtesy of Nationwide. As an Honorary Race Official, the legendary quarterback will accompany fellow Nationwide spokesman, Dale Earnhardt Jr. during BMS’s wildly popular driver introductions and experience the World’s Fastest Half Mile in the Food City 500 from Earnhardt’s pit box. “I don’t think it’s possible to pair two more beloved sports figures in the state of Tennessee than Peyton Manning and Dale Earnhardt Jr.,” said Jerry Caldwell, executive vice president and general manager of BMS. “We are honored Nationwide elected to bring Manning to east Tennessee and we know our Food City 500 guests will give him a rousing Volunteer welcome.” At the University of Tennessee, Manning finished his illustrious career holding 42 NCAA, SEC and Tennessee records. He won the Maxwell Award as the nation’s most outstanding player, the Davey O’Brien National Quarterback Award, the Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award and Player of the Year honors his senior season, securing his All-America status in 1997. In the NFL, Manning is the first and only quarterback to achieve 200 career wins, and his five NFL MVP awards are also a league record. He was the most valuable player of Super Bowl XLI, named to a record 14 Pro Bowls and has 14 4,000-yard passing seasons (NFL record) and is the NFL’s all-time leader in passing yards (71,940) and touchdown passes (539). “I’m thrilled to get a chance to watch Dale compete at Bristol Motor Speedway,” said Peyton Manning. “I want to thank Nationwide for bringing me to one of the great NASCAR tracks to watch what I’m sure will be an exciting race in front of some of the most passionate fans in the sport.” “It’s pretty awesome that Peyton Manning is coming out to Bristol. I think he’s going to enjoy watching the race there because it’s such an amazing race track,” said Dale Earnhardt Jr. “It’s awesome to have a legend like him coming to participate and enjoy our sport. He’s going to enjoy his experience I’m sure and we’re excited to have him.”

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theloaferonline.com | April 12, 2016 | 5

Food City Race Night

Returns to Bristol Motor Speedway

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s the area prepares for the onslaught of race fans and RV’s, the folks at Food City are gearing up for their annual Food City Race Night, which will return to Bristol Motor Speedway on Friday, April 15th. The event paves the way for a weekend of action-packed Xfinity and Sprint Cup racing at one of NASCAR’s most popular venues. Fans can expect a great line-up of driver interactive sessions, along with show cars, simulators, souvenir trailers, entertainment and a smorgasbord of free food samples. Festivities will get underway at 4 p.m. and continue until 9 p.m. Admission is free of charge. Food City has already received confirmations from several drivers and attractions. Among those already confirmed are: Kyle Busch (details to be determined), Kasey Kahne (300 wristbands to be given out at 4 p.m.), Brad Keselowski (150 wristbands to be given out at 4 p.m.), Greg Biffle (200 wristbands to be given out at 4 p.m.), Ricky Stenhouse, Jr. (200 wristbands to be given out at 4 p.m.), Chris Lafferty, Ryan Reed, Ray Black, Jr., K&N East drivers Collin Cabre, Ali Kern, Jairo Avila, Jr., Ruben Garcia, Jr., Harrison Burton, Justin Haley, Tyler Dippel, Hunter Baize, Todd Gilliland, Riley Herbst, Dillon Bassett, ARCA driver Blake Jones, Late Model driver Matthew Eades, Vintage drivers Gary Potter and Haskell McKee, NASCAR Legends Brownie King, Paul Lewis, Travis Tiller and John Utsman, Kart drivers Brandon Morris, Jenna Herrmann, Levi Herrmann, William Foster and Dillon Hodge, Super Modified driver Brian Voiles, Street Stock driver Colin Eades, D2 U-Car drivers Daniel Tate, Danny Ray Tate and Zack Mathena, Super Street drivers Eric Sweat and Tim Widener, Lonesome Pine driver Kevin Wolfe, Kingsport Speedway driver Kres VanDyke, Open Wheel Modified driver Morgan Widener, Dirt drivers Philip Thompson and Trevor Craiger, Forge Muscle Cars and Mod 4 driver Toby Jones. Also making special guest appearance are: Miss Food City 2016, Azlinn Hope Alder, Official NASCAR Artist, Sam Bass, RCR Owner Richard Childress, 2014 VOICE finalist, Audra McLaughlin, co-founder of Earnhardt Racing, Gray London, Race to Victory’s John Earnhardt and country music sensations, Charee White and Levi Riggs. Free food sampling will begin at 4 p.m. and continue while supplies last. Cody Shuler & Pine Mountain Railroad will take the stage from 4:00 until 5:00 p.m., followed by Charee White and Levi Riggs from 5:10 until 5:45 p.m. Welcome ceremonies will begin at 6:00 p.m., featuring MC Larry McReynolds and Audra McLaughlin singing the National Anthem. During on-stage ceremonies, special announcements/presentations will be made to Jimmie Johnson, Richard Petty, Richard Childress and Brad Keselowski. Audra McLaughlin will perform live in concert from 8:00 until 9:00 p.m. The event will close with a special 9:00 p.m. fireworks show (weather permitting). This year’s media sponsors are Bristol Herald Courier and News Channel 11 in your corner. For a complete listing of Food City Race Night attractions, visit Food City’s website at www. foodcity.com” www.foodcity.com, where updates will be posted. Follow us on Twitter @ FoodCity#FoodCity500 #FCRaceNight. Please note that scheduling and driver appearances are subject to change and autographs are limited to time availability. Food City Race Night in Knoxville, TN is scheduled for Thursday, April 14th at the Knoxville Expo Center from 4 p.m. until 8 p.m.

festival

Chase Elliott headlines

Mountain Dew Tailgate at the Food City 500

ookie Chase Elliott is one of the future stars of NASCAR and Bristol Motor Speedway fans can see him up close and personal at the Mountain Dew Tailgate for the Food City 500. Located in Hospitality Village, guests may upgrade their Sunday, April 17 ticket to include the Mountain Dew Tailgate for just $99 (or $79 for iBelong Bristol Season Ticket Holders). Along with an appearance by the NASCAR Rookie of the Year contender, guests are also treated to appearances by other racing personalities and receive a $20 food and beverage voucher good to use inside the hospitality tent. A cash bar is also available. Door prizes for the Tailgate include limited autographed Elliott merchandise along with other exciting prizes. In addition, fans will receive a Track Walk pass, allowing unparalleled access to the racing surface of The Last Great Colosseum prior to the Elliott appearance. Elliott, son of former NASCAR champion Bill Elliott, is in his first season in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series. The 2014 NASCAR XFINITY Series champion, Elliott makes his Bristol Motor Speedway Cup debut in April behind the wheel of the No. 24 Chevrolet for Hendrick Motorsports, replacing recently retired Jeff Gordon, a five-time Bristol winner. Tickets are currently available for race weekend by visiting BristolTix.com or calling (855) 580-5525. Tickets for the Food City 500 start at just $64 for adults and $32 for youth (12 and under). A weekend package, which includes admission to Bush’s Beans Pole Day, the Fitzgerald Glider Kits 300/PittLite 125 doubleheader and the Food City 500 begins at $89 for adults and $44 for youth (12 and under).

BMS TO OFFER “DALE JR. SANDWICH” DURING FOOD CITY 500 WEEKEND

he banana and Hellmann’s mayonnaise snack craze has hit an all-time high after NASCAR Sprint Cup Series star Dale Earnhardt Jr. tweeted out his love of the sandwich on Tuesday. Fans from NASCAR nation were quick to recreate the sandwich and post their experiences of this unique item. In honor of this enthusiasm, BMS will be offering the famous “Dale Jr Sandwich” featuring Hellman’s mayonnaise and bananas on white bread during the Food City 500 weekend, April 15-17. The “Dale Jr Sandwich” is $4 and $1 of every sandwich sold will go to The Dale Jr. Foundation. Interested in trying it? Visit the concession stand in the Family Section of Waltrip Grandstand, just inside Gate 14 to the left. theloaferonline.com | April 12, 2016 | 7

BMs fan schedule Friday, April 15, 2016 BUSH’S BEANS POLE DAY

All Day - “Hot Pass in Effect” Entire infield 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM - Kids Zone - (Fan Zone) Open 10:30 AM - Spectator Gates / Suite Gates Gates 1, 2, 8, 13 & 15 - Suite Gates 7, 8, 10, 16 & 18) Open 10:30 AM - Suites Open 11:00 AM - 12:25 PM - Food City 500 1st Practice 12:00:00 PM to 3:00 PM - Cornhole Tournament Qualifier 12:30 PM to 1:55 PM - NXS Practice 3:00 PM to 3:55 PM - NXS Final Practice 4:15 PM - Bush’s Beans Pole Day NSCS Qualifying 6:00 PM to 6:45 PM - PittLite 125 NKNPS-E 1st Practice 7:00 PM to 7:25 PM - PittLite 125 NKNPS-E Final Practice 7:30 PM to 7:45 PM - PittLite 125 NKNPS-E Qualifying 8:30 PM to 9:30PM - Spring Race 5K 9:30 PM to 11:30 PM - Seat Time Racing School (Infield)

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Saturday, April 16, 2016 Fitzgerald Glider Kits 300/NKNS-E PittLite 125 All Day - “Hot Pass in Effect” Entire infield 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM - Kids Zone - (Fan Zone) Open 8:00 AM - Spectators Gates / Suite Gates Open (All Gates and Elevator Towers B & C) 8:00 AM - Suites Open 8:30 AM to 9:25 AM - Food City 500 Sprint Cup 2nd Practice 9:30 AM - NXS Fitzegerald Glider Kits 300 Qualifying (Multi-Vehicle/Three Rounds) 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM - Cornhole Tournament Qualifier 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM - NKNPS-E Autograph Session (Lot C) 11:00 AM to 11:55 AM - Food City 500 NSCS Final Practice 12:05 PM - Fitzgerald Glider Kits 300 NXS Driver Introductions 12:30 PM - NXS Heat # 1 (50 Laps, 26.65 Miles) 1:10 PM - NXS Heat #2 (50 Laps, 26.65 Miles) 1:45 PM - Start of the NXS Main Event (200 Laps, 106.63 Miles) Between NXS and NKNS-E Races Clare Dunn Concert (Ole Smoky Roof At Turn 4/Colossus TV) 4:15 PM - PittLite 125 NKNS-E Driver Introductions 4:30 PM - Start of PittLite 125 Race (125 Laps, 66.63 Miles) Following the Pitt Lite 125 Lance Stinson Concert (Fan Zone Stage)

Sunday, April 17, 2016 NSCS FOOD CITY 500 Sprint Cup

7:00 AM - Free Shuttle Service Begins 8:30 AM to 1:00 PM - Kids Zone - (Fan Zone) Open 9:00 AM - Raceway Ministries Worship Services (See Guest Guide for locations) 9:00 AM - Spectators Gates/ Suite Gates (All Gates and Elevator Towers B & C) Open 9:00 AM - Suites Open 9:00 AM to conclusion of Food City 500 - Pit Road Party Zone (Infield) 9:00 AM to 10:45 AM - Pre Race Garage Party (Infield) 9:00 AM to 10:45 AM - SuperPass/Track Walk 9:00 AM to 10:45 AM - Pre-Race Track Walk 10:00 AM - Cornhole Tournament Championship 11:00 AM - “Hot Pass in Effect” (Entire Infield) 11:20 AM - Pre Race Concert featuring the Doobie Brothers (Infield) 12:20 PM - Food City 500 Sprint Cup Driver Introductions 1:00 PM - Start of FOOD CITY 500 Sprint Cup Race

www.bristolmotorspeedway.com/fans/fan_schedule/ for complete schedule

tip #1 to get Ready For The April Experience Plan Ahead For Parking.

Bristol Motor Speedway offers free parking, but it can be a little tricky to find in event-time traffic. That’s not to say the free lots are tucked away with the locations kept secret. It’s simply a fact that you’re going to experience sensory overload when you see the racetrack for the first time during a race weekend - everyone does! That’s precisely why you want to plan your route to free parking ahead of time. Bristol’s free parking lots are located off State Route 394. GPS systems will often bring you to the front entrance of the Speedway on Highway 11-E. If you follow those guidance prompts, you’ll miss some of the key signs pointing the way to free parking and be forced to either look for U-turn opportunities or pay for parking at a neighboring private lot. That’s just not the best way to start your day at Bristol. The fix? Plug one of these two addresses off State Route 394 into your GPS instead, as these are the physical locations for the entrances to those free parking lots: • White Top Creek Park, 100 Sportsway Dr, Bristol, TN 37620 • 394 @White Top, 450 White Top Rd, Bluff City, TN 37618 You shouldn’t have any trouble seeing the directional signs once you’re close with this Bristol Trip Tip. Even better, there’s a hidden bonus awaiting you at these lots. Bristol provides free shuttle service to the track from both free parking areas, which connect you to the areas where you can hop on one of a series of trams that will make moving around the property even easier!

theloaferonline.com | April 12, 2016 | 9

LARGER THAN LIFE GOLDBERG

REIGNS OVER BRISTOL’S WILDLY POPULAR

FOOD CITY 500 DRIVER INTRODUCTIONS ONCE AGAIN IN 2016

ill Goldberg, one of the most popular professional wrestlers of all time, will once again pump fans up as pre-race host for April 17’s Food City 500. Bristol Motor Speedway’s driver introductions are unique on the NASCAR circuit as drivers select a song to play as they arrive in style at the Last Great Colosseum. Mixed together with Goldberg’s famous voice and booming personality, the intros have become a fan favorite on the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series schedule. “It’s always an honor lending a hand to NASCAR in doing what they do,” said Goldberg, a world champion in both World Championship Wrestling (WCW) and World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE). “To be asked back to Bristol, where my NASCAR experience began over 20 years ago, is a special invitation that I could never pass up!” In addition to emceeing the Food City 500 intros, Goldberg will be on hand Saturday during the pre-race experience prior to the Fitzgerald Glider Kits 300 NASCAR XFINITY Series race. He will also make appearances throughout the weekend, including at Yee-Haw Banks and Brews. This is Goldberg’s second appearance at Bristol, having served as pre-race host during last year’s Food City 500. Tickets are still available for the Food City 500 race weekend by visiting BristolTix.com or calling (855) 580-5525.

2015 Food City 500 Photo Credit: Harold Hinson Photography

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The Doobie Brothers

Will Be Rockin’ Down The Highway To The Food City 500 Pre-Race Concert

ace fans attending the Food City 500 are in for a treat as they “Listen to the Music” during The Doobie Brothers Pre-Race concert on Sunday, April 17 at Bristol Motor Speedway. The four-time GRAMMY Awardwinning band will bring their powerhouse rock n’ roll to one of NASCAR’s biggest races. With iconic hits such as “China Grove,” “Long Train Runnin,’” “Listen to the Music” and “Black Water,” The Doobie Brothers will get the race day party started. Led by original members Tom Johnston, Patrick Simmons, and longtime-member John McFee, the band continues to break genre barriers; most-recently releasing Southbound, an album of fan favorites rerecorded with some of country music’s biggest stars including: Blake Shelton, Zac Brown Band, Brad Paisley, and Toby Keith. “We can’t wait to see the Doobie Brothers’ energetic performance at the Food City 500 pre-race concert,” said Jerry Caldwell, executive vice president and general manager for Bristol Motor Speedway. “They are an American musical institution with many songs guests will recognize and sing along to; it will be a memorable experience for everyone.” The Doobie Brothers are excited to perform at Bristol, before they head off on their 50-city, co-headlining “San Francisco Fest Tour” with Journey and special guest Dave Mason this summer. Tom Johnston notes, “We are looking forward to playing for NASCAR in Bristol. Race fans know how to have a good time!” Patrick Simmons adds, “We love the atmosphere of competition racing, and the folks who come to these events. The anticipation and electricity in the air, as well as the camaraderie of the fans and competitors, always make these races special, and a great experience for all those who attend. I know our music will fit right in there with the whole spirit of the event. We can’t wait to get there!” Tickets are currently available for the April race weekend by visiting BristolTix. com or calling toll-free (855) 580-5525. While supplies last, Food City 500 ticket holders may add on a Pre-Race SuperPass and be stage-side (on the track) for the concert featuring The Doobie Brothers. The SuperPass also includes a Track Walk and track access for Bristol’s wildly popular Food City 500 Driver Introductions. theloaferonline.com | April 12, 2016 | 11

Kingsport Theatre Guild presents

n infant is found dead. In a convent. A nun broke her vow of chastity and conceived the child. She broke God’s commandment and killed her new-born. …Or did she? Join us as we question the truth of human connection in moments of strained reality and the presence of quiet hope in dark places. Kingsport Theatre Guild is proud to present this award winning ‘murder mystery’ drama as the next installment of its KTG:Downtown series at the Kingsport Center for Higher Education. The original script was adapted to film and made famous by actresses Jane Fonda, Anne Bancroft and Meg Tilly. The film received numerous Oscar nominations. “Agnes of God” tells the story of an atheistic psychiatrist’s struggle to analyze and help a young nun accused of murdering her newborn baby with no recollection of such an event transpiring. A psychological war ensues between the well-intentioned psychiatrist and the domineering Mother Superior over Agnes’ mental health, allowing the play to explore the contrasts of science and religion, facts and faith.

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“Agnes of God”

At the center of the story, never leaving the stage for the full hour and forty minutes, is Doctor Martha Livingstone played by Karen Elb, who has a deep connection with the character. Back in 1994, at a small theatre in Kentucky, (Brelco Theater) Karen’s mom (Vivien Worthen-Powell) played the role of Dr. Martha Livingstone. Karen helped her mom work on memorizing lines and saw more than one performance of the show, and wept every time. She loves characters that change or grow in their story and she loves getting to play pathos, so for over 20 years, she has thought of this role as one she would LOVE to play someday. “I think the key to playing this part believably and in a way that touches people is understanding, like my mom did and like everyone involved in THIS production does, that these are not characters, they are people. Complex and contradictory, each character is doing or reacting in the way that, at the time, they think is right. My mom is excited to come see the show; this will be the first time I’ve played a part she’s played. As for me, I just hope to bring a performance as great as hers was, and to touch the heart of each audience member with that oh so human story of struggling to find the truth and do what is right, in this complicated and jaded world.” Playing opposite of Karen in the role of Mother Superior is theatre veteran, Judy Womack. Her love of theatre began at age five when she played a flower in a church play. Judy has per-

AGNES ... continued on page 33

Kingsport Ballet Prepares for Swan Lake at Eastman’s Toy F. Reid Auditorium

ingsport Ballet is proud to present Swan Lake at Toy F. Reid Auditorium, April 16th and 17th, 2016. The outreach daytime performance is Friday, April 15th at 10am and is sponsored in part by a grant from the Massengil De-Friece Foundation. Artistic Director, Valeria Sinyavskaya, is recipient of the Tennessee Arts Commission Choreography Fellowship Award. Ms Sinyavskaya and rehearsal assistant, Vadim Burciu, have been working daily with the Company in preparation for this ballet

classic. “We are very excited about this year’s production. We have a wonderfully talented young cast made up of professional artists, semi-professionals, and our own Company dancers. This will be an unforgettable experience, particularly for the first-time viewer,” she said. Swan Lake is a ballet classic that is possibly one of the most iconic around the world for its spell- binding music and ethereal movement. The story is equally appealing, featuring a dramatic, heart- wrenching love tale of deception, passion and, of course, evil spells. Many of the costumes for this ballet were designed and constructed by artists and seamstresses right here in Kingsport, TN in 2003. Tutus were commissioned in Russia from the costumers of the Kirov Ballet in St. Petersburg over 12 years ago, and have since been beautifully restored after many years of constant use by the Company. Principal and soloist roles will be performed by guests from Columbia Classical Ballet and Ballet Hispanico among others. In addition to Kingsport Ballet company members there will be several graduates who are joining the cast for this production. The principal male role of Prince Sigfried will be danced by Nations Wilkes-Davis of Columbia Classical Ballet. Nations has guest performed previously with Kingsport Ballet in The Sleeping Beauty. He is recipient of a Gold

SWAN LAKE

...

continued on page 35

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Popovich Comedy Pet Theater

provides family entertainment at NPAC

he Popovich Comedy Pet Theater is entertainment for the whole family, featuring the unique blend of comedy and juggling skills of former Moscow Circus veteran Gregory Popovich and the extraordinary talents of his performing pets. Popovich and his menagerie of pets will perform at NPAC on April 14 at 7:00 pm. His entourage consists of world-class jugglers, Diamond the Shetland Pony, the German

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goat duo Kurt and Helga and over 30 performing pets including house cats and dogs, geese, white doves and parrots. Gregory has rescued the animals from shelters all over the country and transformed them into Las Vegas stars, using positive reinforcement and working with the animals natural abilities to create a fun, one-ofkind show. Audiences will be delighted to see the extravaganza of European-style clowning, balancing acts, and of course, very talented performing pets. The Popovich Comedy Pet Theater has a rich performance history, presenting thousands of shows in more than 20 countries and has been voted the “best family show in Las Vegas.” In an effort to bring awareness of the growing need to find “furever” homes for shelter pets, NPAC is teaming up with the Greeneville-Greene County TN Humane Society Adoption Center. The center is privately owned and operated by the Greeneville-Greene County Humane Society. Donations of needed items will be collected for the adoption center in the NPAC lobby prior to the show. Items on the center’s wish list include dry and canned foods for puppies, kittens, dogs and cats, old blankets and towels, clay cat litter, bleach, laundry and dish detergent, and toys for cats and dogs. Don’t miss Popovich and his performing pets at the Niswonger Performing Arts Center (NPAC) in historic downtown Greeneville, TN on Thursday, April 14 at 7:00 pm. Tickets are $25 for orchestra level seating, $20 for mezzanine seating and $15 for balcony seats. Tickets may be purchased online at www.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 a $1.50 ticketing fee per ticket regardless of purchase method. The box office hours are Monday through Friday, 10 am until 5 pm. The 1150 seat performing arts center is located adjacent to the campus of Greeneville High School in Greeneville, TN. For venue information, and to purchase tickets, please visit www.npacgreeneville.com.

2015 Food City 500 Photo Credit: Harold Hinson Photography

tip #2 to get Ready For The April Experience

Essential Items to Bring.

Before you leave home, be sure you have these key items packed for the best Bristol experience: 1) Your camera or smartphone and those key power cords 2) Your clear backpack and small cooler 3) Your ear coverings The Bristol experience is a series of Kodak Moments in motion. (Translation for anyone under 30: you’ll want to take pictures throughout your entire time at the Last Great Colosseum.) Be prepared with enough battery power to take all the video your smartphone can handle, to snap the shutter as many times as your digital camera will let you and to post as many selfies to social media as your heart desires. Power cords will be key lifelines throughout your race weekend. Cell Phone Charging Stations and WiFi Hot Spots are set up in key places around Speedway property. Look for the icons on Guest Guide and Tram Stop maps, or cruise by Guest Welcome Village for the 4-1-1. Make the process of getting through the gates at Bristol Motor Speedway easier on yourself by bringing along a clear backpack to carry essentials. Your bag will be inspected at the gate to ensure no prohibited items or glass containers go inside. You’re also permitted to bring snacks and drinks inside, provided you do so in a cooler 14-inches or smaller in size. Take a peek at the list of permitted and prohibited items ahead of time if you plan to bring in a bag or a personal cooler. You’ll find the full list here, www. bristolmotorspeedway.com/fans/rules_regulations/ The final key essential on your packing list is one that takes some seasoned race fans by surprise. Watching a race at Bristol is loud. Really loud. Do yourself a favor and bring along your own set, or visit one of the Racing Electronics locations around the Speedway to rent a scanner and headphone combo or Fan Vision set for the weekend. theloaferonline.com | April 12, 2016 | 15

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Musical entertainment abounds for Food City 500 weekend

ristol Motor Speedway is the place in 2016, and during the Food City 500 weekend, it will be the place for musical entertainment in the region. In addition to the previously announced pre-race concert featuring the Doobie Brothers, country star Clare Dunn, respected country music artist Lee Greenwood and country singer/songwriter Lance Stinson will be at Bristol Motor Speedway to entertain the fans during race weekend. The Doobie Brothers will take the stage prior to driver introductions on Sunday, April 17 to perform some of their greatest hits including “Rockin’ Down the Highway”, “Black Water” and “Jesus is Just Alright”. While supplies last, Food City 500 ticket holders may add on a pre-race SuperPass and be stage-side (on the track) for the concert featuring The Doobie Brothers. The SuperPass also includes a Track Walk and track access for Bristol’s wildly popular Food City 500 driver introductions. Country music singer/songwriter Dunn will be rocking out for fans on Saturday, April 16. Born on a farm in rural Colorado near the Oklahoma panhandle, Dunn has forged her own path from the farmlands to Nashville under the UMG Nashville label with hits such as “Get Out”, “Move On” and her newest single, “Tuxedo”. She will sing the national anthem prior to the Fitzgerald Glider Kits 300 NASCAR XFINITY Series race and perform a concert set on the Ole Smoky Roof at Turn 4 between the finish of the XFINITY race and the start of the PittLite 125 NASCAR K&N Pro Series East race. “I am so honored to be getting to play in front of NASCAR fans at Bristol Motor Speedway,” said Dunn. “I have dreamed of being able to attend a race for quite some time and see first hand the sport that has been the inspiration for many songs for me as a songwriter. I am absolutely

beyond excited to put on a great show for such a great crowd.” Greenwood’s career has spanned decades, charting more than 35 singles on the Billboard country music charts. His catalog includes “Somebody’s Going to Love You” and “Dixie Road”, but he will be on hand on Sunday during pre-race to perform his most famous song, “God Bless the USA”, one of America’s most well-known unofficial anthems. Stinson, a native of South Georgia, is a singer of self-described “kick-in-the-teeth country” and has traveled all over the South to clubs and honky-tonks. After recently relocating to Nashville, he is continuing on his path of entertainment. Stinson will perform for fans following the conclusion of the PittLite 125 on Saturday. Tickets for race weekend are still available, but Race Month Pricing kicks in on Friday April 1, where all single day and weekend ticket prices will rise. Up until March 31, tickets for Sunday’s Food City 500 start at $64 for adults and $32 for youth (12 and under). Saturday’s doubleheader starts at just $35 for adults and $17 for youth (12 and under). Weekend packages - which include the Food City 500 and the Fitzgerald Glider Kits 300/PittLite 125 doubleheader - are also on sale, beginning at $89 for adults and $44 for youth (12 and under). For more information, visit BristolTix.com or call (855) 580-5525.

theloaferonline.com | April 12, 2016 | 17

Dolly says – Lightning Rod Delay,

but New Tour On the Way!

Story and photos by Jason and Daniel Worley

olly recently greeted her loyal followers, members of the media and park guest to share both somber and exciting news to all. She took stage wearing a red and orange outfit with yellow flames to introduce the 2016 most highly anticipated new ride, Lightning Rod – The World’s Fastest Wooden Coaster! While she expressed her sadness that the ride was not yet running due to extended ride commissioning, her obvious excitement for the new attraction spilled over as she gave us the “Fast Facts” of this World Record Breaking Coaster:

• World’s fastest wood coaster reaching 73 mph! • World’s first launched wood coaster reaching 45 mph at the top of the lift hill! • World’s tallest wooden coaster standing more than 20 stories above Dollywood! • Riders experience nearly 20 seconds of airtime during a ride on Lightning Rod. • Just under 500,000 feet of yellow pine used in construction of the ride. • The launch system packs the equivalent of 1,500 horsepower. While Dolly wasn’t able to give us a date just yet of when this mammoth of a ride will be taking riders around nearly 2/3 of a mile of track, she did say it was one ride you didn’t want to miss! “I’m so excited about this ride, I was ready to ride this one myself today! Too bad it isn’t running yet!” Dolly exclaimed. Don’t worry Dolly, you’ll have plenty more chances to ride with us! In what is sure to be one of summer’s most sought out concerts, Dolly talk about how is excited to “Get out there and see the fans again”. Dolly was spreading joy when she announced she will bring her boundless energy to stages in over 60 cities as she embarks on her first major US and Canadian tour in more than 25 years! The past 20 years Dolly has completed several US tours, but her “Pure & Simple” Tour 2016 will take her all over North America. Pure & Simple will showcase Dolly’s hit songs while weaving in a few new songs from her new double disc album, “Pure & Simple with Dolly’s Biggest Hits”.

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DOLLY continued on next page

DOLLY ... continued from previous page

As of this writing, 11 dates have been confirmed for the tour:

• June 3, Greensboro Coliseum, Greensboro, NC • June 4, Infinite Energy Center, Duluth, GA • June 7, Charleston Civic Center, Charleston, WV • June 8, Wolf Trap, Vienna, VA • June 11, Horseshoe Casino, Cincinnati, OH • June 17, Tanglewood, Lenox, MA • June 18, Darling’s Waterfront Pavilion, Bangor, ME • June 28, CONSOL Energy Center, Pittsburgh, PA • August 2, Ohio State Fair, Columbus, OH • August 7, Ravinia Festival, Highland Park, IL • November 15, LeConte Center, Pigeon Forge, TN Dolly was overly excited about her November stop in Pigeon Forge when asked stating, “Of course I wouldn’t forget about my hometown of Pigeon Forge. I’m coming back here in November to play at the LeConte Center for my Imagination Library”. Dolly completed the event with a live performance of her 1959 single “Puppy Love” to recognize the newly renovated 50’s area at the park, home of the new Lightning Rod Wooden Coaster. To get updates on the opening of Lightning Rod or Dolly’s “Pure & Simple” concerts, please visit www.dollywood.com or call 1-800-DOLLYWOOD. theloaferonline.com | April 12, 2016 | 19

tip #3 to get Ready For The April Experience

Event Shuttles and Trams.

the foothills of the Appalachian mountains, surrounded by picturesque hills, mountains and valYou’ll get no argument that the leys…’ is more than just a write-up setting for Bristol Motor Speed- on some tourism brochure - it truway is among the most beauti- ly describes the landscape of this ful of any sports venue could ask Speedway. Trip Tip Translation: for. The description ‘nestled in that means the property grounds are full of hills, slopes and inclines that will challenge the calf muscles of even the most admired power walkers. But let the weekend fitness warriors and not-so-health-conscious

among us rejoice - Bristol’s shuttle and tram service operating during events virtually ensures you won’t have to trek any hills, unless you choose to do so. Continuously running a half-dozen looping routes throughout race days, tram service takes fans up the steepest inclines, including the curving hill in front of the main Ticket Office and Speedway World, the largest year-round Bristol-specific souvenir store. Take a minute to study the route maps that mark each of the stops, glance over the route map here, www. bristolmotorspeedway.com/fans/mapsor pull them up on the Bristol app. Your feet – and those calf muscles we talked about earlier – will thank you at the end of each race day. Be sure to put a stop at Guest Welcome Village on your daily Bristol Race Day Must See List as well. There are two located on Speedway property on race weekends – one in the Fan Zone at the main entrance off Highway 11-E and another anchoring the Merchandise Midway between the NASCAR Fanatics Souvenir Superstore and Hospitality Village. Got a question about where to catch a glimpse of a driver? Want to know the preferred gate to go in if you’re sitting in the new Jeff Gordon Terrace to watch the race? Even better, just want a place to kick back in a country-style rocking chair and rest your feet for a few? The two huge Guest Welcome Village tents are staffed with people who know all the answers and will point you towards those comfy rocking chairs. Pretty much, these are big fan comfort and information areas that are worth your time to check out. Ready for a Bonus Bristol Trip Tip for Hump Day? You Can Take a Pic With The Trophy Before It Gets Handed To The Winner. Each race day trophy spends time on display prior to its presentation in Victory Lane. You’ll find the places of honor in the main Guest Services area, just inside the Bruton Smith Office Building. This area is set up with all the information a race fan could ever want alongside the trophies. If you’re not familiar, Bristol’s Sprint Cup Series race trophy is HUGE. Stand it up next to a 7 year old and he’ll have to look up to see the top. Take it from me, visit Guest Services, snap a pic and sent it out tagged #ItsBristolBaby. You’ll be the envy of all your friends stuck watching this epic race from home.

Hypnopalooza

returns to Northeast State

ow does he do it? Only hypnotist and mentalist Rich Aimes knows! Aimes returns to Northeast State with his mesmerizing “Hypnopalooza!” show on April 13. Aimes will give a free performance at noon and 7 p.m. in the Auditorium (A202) on the Blountville campus, next to Tri-Cities Regional Airport. Aimes makes audience members the stars of the show by putting them into funny situations as hypnotic subjects. The performance sheds some light on the power of suggestion and influence that can be exerted on the human thought with the right prompting. Aimes’ dramatic flair and uncanny mentalist abilities has won over audiences across the country. Aimes is a board certified hypnotist with the National Board of Hypnotist Education and Certification (NBHEC) and studied psychology and theater as an undergraduate. As a student of hypnosis, he trained in Los Angeles and Florida with some of the top hypnotists in the country. Marielle, his wife and stage partner, is also a board certified hypnotist with NBHEC. The couple has wowed colleges, corporate clients, state fairs, and theme parks with his uncanny mental abilities. This is the perfect event for relieving end-of-semester strains and stresses, and you are invited to bring your students, family, friends, and colleagues. Students of psychology, performing arts, and speech should especially enjoy this program as well as anyone who needs a relaxing “escape”. Aimes’ performances are being sponsored by the Northeast State Cultural Activities Committee. The performance is free and open to the public. For more information, contact 423.279.7669 or e-mail jpkelly@NortheastState.edu.

20 | April 12, 2016 | theloaferonline.com

THE ABINGDON FARMERS MARKET’S

OPENING DAY

he Abingdon Farmers Market kicks off its regular sea- you can find even more of your everyday needs at the Abingdon Farmers Market. son Saturday, April 16th 2016 with an opening day Contact Haley Stewart at (276)-698-1434 or email abingdonmarket@gmail.com with any quesraffle, food sampling, cooking demonstrations, and tions. Visit the market website at www.abingdonfarmersmarket.com or follow them on Facebook: other food educational activities to celebrate the be- Abingdon Farmers Market, Instagram: abingdonmarket ginning of a new Farmers Market season. There will be over 50 vendors from local farms and artisans set up to sell their goods and to promote fresh local food throughout the community. This is the official beginning to the 2016 market season that will continue through Thanksgiving with hours of operation on Saturday mornings from 8am- 1pm and Tuesday afternoons from 3pm-6pm. The first 45 guests to visit the Abingdon Farmers Market Saturday the 16th will receive a free reusable shopping bag and a seedling to take home. The Abingdon Farmers Market raffle will begin at 8am. Tickets are $5.00 and will be available for purchase at the AFM information table as well as at each vendor booth. One ticket will be drawn at 12:45pm for a $25 Abingdon Farmers Market Gift Certificate. All proceeds go toward enclosing the Market in order to provide a better shopping experience.

On the lawn there will be a chef demo booth where customers can sample food that Chef Nathan Breeding, of Southern Culture Farm to Table Food Service, has prepared with locally grown ingredients. There will be a food safety booth, for all customers to learn a bit more about food safety at home, and meet the region’s “Food Safety Specialist,” Dottie Havlik. She will also be available to conduct nutrition guides for anyone who is interested. Also, enjoy music by Laura Thurston, as her “unique style from a vintage era enliven you and have you feelin fine.” In coordination with the Opening Day of the Abingdon Farmers Market, the Town of Abingdon will be celebrating Earth Day just across the street. The theme for Earth Day is Air and Atmosphere. The market hours will now be: Saturdays, 8am-1pm & Tuesdays, 3pm-6pm, through November. There are several new events planned for this season, including a Herb Festival, Berry Festival, Tomato Festival, and Squashtober Fest along with other events to celebrate the bounty of locally produced foods & goods. The market includes over 50 full-time vendors, offering a wide variety of local meats, eggs, cheeses, vegetables, fruits, wines, prepared foods, art & crafts and even a couple food trucks. Now

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S O LG T P

T I

- TUESDAY - April 12th -

MATTHEW FRANTZ / LUKE MITCHEM at Acoustic Coffeehouse

GUIDO AUSOME & THE OPEN MIC PLAYERS at O’Mainnin’s Pub

DOWNTOWN COUNTRY at Jiggy Ray’s 6:30pm

- WEDNESDAY - April 13th OPEN MIC at Jiggy Ray’s FORLORN STRANGERS at Bone Fire Smokehouse OPEN MIC at The Willow Tree Coffeehouse & Music Room 6pm

WYLDEHEART

at Holston River Brewing Company 8pm

MARK WHITE / SCOTTY MELTON & FRIENDS at O’Mainnin’s Pub

ZACH DOIRON / MAL COOPER at Acoustic Coffeehouse

- THURSDAY - April 14th ACOUSTIC SINGER/SONGWERITER NIGHT at Capone’s

MARSHALL BALLEW at Bone Fire Smokehouse PAPER LIGHTS at Wolf Hills Brewing COUNTRY BAND (DAN BONER, DAVID YATES)

at Down Home

FLAT TOP MIKE at Yee Haw Brewing Company 8pm DOUBLESHOT

- FRIDAY - April 15th -

DAVID WAX MUSEUM w/ DARLINGSIDE

at The Willow Tree Coffeehouse & Music Room CALAMITY JONES (formerly The Jones Boys) at Holston River Brewing Company 8pm THE ROOMSOUNDS at Sleepy Owl Brewery 7pm

H C UNDERGROUND

at Country Club Bar & Grill TIME SAWYER at O’Mainnin’s Pub 8pm

FORT DEFIANCE / JORDY GREENE at Acoustic Coffeehouse

- SATURDAY - April 16th CRAZY LIKE LeXI

at Sonny’s Marina & Cafe 7pm SECOND TOUR FEST! - 3pm THE TWANG BANGERS - 7pm at Holston River Brewing Company FREE FLOW at 50/fifty Sports Tavern

SOUTHERN COUNTRYMEN BAND (Country)

at Willoughby Ruritan

BILL & THE BELLES w/ special guest MAMA’S BROKE at Down Home SHELBY LEE LOWE - 10:30am THE TWANG BANGERS - 5:30pm WHISKEY ROSE - 7:30pm BENTON BLOUNT - 9:30pm at Earhart Campground

at Holston River Brewing Company 8pm

PAPER LIGHTS

at O’Mainnin’s Pub

PARAMOUNT CHAMBER PLAYERS

RYAN WARD / DENNY MENDERAL CHINQUAPIN DUO / MOONSHINE DISTRICT at Acoustic Coffeehouse

- FRIDAY - April 15th THE FUGITIVES at Sonny’s Marina & Cafe 7pm SOUTHERN REBELLION (Country, Classic Rock,

Southern Rock) at 50Fifty Sports Tavern THE TWANG BANGERS at Capone’s

THE GREAT SMOKY MT BLUEGRASS BAND at Down Home

CATFISH FRYE BAND (Rockin’ Boogie Blues) at Quaker Steak & Lube 8pm MALDEN SQUARE at The Lion’s Club 7pm BENNY JONES at The Family Barn 6pm SHELBY LEE LOWE - 5:30pm LANCE STINSON - 7:30pm BENNY WILSON BAND - 9:30pm at Earhart Campground SHOOTER (Country, Classic Rock, Oldies) at Elizabethton Elks Lodge 9pm

at The Willow Tree Coffeehouse & Music Room at Paramount Center for Performing Arts 7pm ELVIS MATT DOLLAR at The Family Barn 6pm MICK KYTE at Jiggy Ray’s 7pm BAKERSFIELD (Alt. Country, Outlaw Country, Texas Honky Tonk) at David Thompson’s Produce 7pm FARMHOUSE GHOST at O’Mainnin’s Pub SHOOTER (Country, Classic Rock, Oldies) at Bluegrass Barn 7:30pm LAUREN COLE BAND at Capone’s WYLDEHEART at Holiday Inn (exit 7)

FOLK SOUL REVIVAL

at Holston River Brewing Company 7pm SCOTT STEELE at Greeneville VFW

MODEL CITY WRECKING CREW at Bristol Motor Speedway JEFF LITTLE TRIO at Carter Fold

ROCK AND ROLL FREAKSHOW

at Bristol Motor Speedway LIVE MUSIC at Bone Fire Smokehouse

at Biggie’s Clam Bar HB BEVERLY at Bristol Brewery 8pm BLUESMAN & THE BLUES MACHINE at Bone Fire Smokehouse LAURA THURSTON (Folk) AARON ROBERTS at Acoustic Coffeehouse

at Yee Haw Brewing Company 9:30pm

at Country Club Bar & Grill

MODEL CITY WRECKING CREW STUMP SOUND DUO

22 22| |April April12, 12,2016 2016| |theloaferonline.com theloaferonline.com

RAILWAY EXPRESS

If you or your band are playing in the upcoming week and would like to be in The Spotlight, call in advance to (423) 282-1907 or go online to: theloaferonline.com. Due to last minute cancellations or changes, please call the location to confirm.

- SUNDAY - April 17th -

DANIEL WILSON at Sonny’s Marina & Cafe 4pm LE HOTCLUB DE BIG LICK

at Music on the Lawn @ Martha Washington Inn OPEN JAM at The Family Barn 1pm BENTON BLOUNT - 10:00am at Earhart Campground

ROBBY HECHT & BETH WOOD

at The Willow Tree Coffeehouse & Music Room 8pm ANDY FERRELL at Bone Fire Smokehouse OPEN MIC at Acoustic Coffeehouse

- MONDAY - April 18th BOOTS ON THE GROUND at Bristol’s Pickin’ Porch

MOCKINGBIRD READING at Acoustic Coffeehouse

KARAOKE

TUESDAY Karaoke at 50Fifty Sports Tavern Karaoke at Numan’s - Johnson City TN Karaoke w/ Absolute Entertainment at Boomershine’s Pizza - Bluff City *********************** WEDNESDAY Karaoke w/ Southern Sounds Karaoke at American Legion 8pm Karaoke w/ Absolute Entertainment at Smokey Bones - Johnson City TN Turn the Page Karaoke at VFW Post 2108 - Johnson City TN *********************** THURSDAY Karaoke at Numan’s - Johnson City Karaoke at Bristol VFW Karaoke at Holiday Inn - Johnson City *********************** FRIDAY Karaoke at Bristol VFW - Bristol TN Karaoke w/ Southern Sounds Karaoke at Sportsman’s Bar & Grill 9pm Karaoke w/ Reverb Karaoke at The Cottage 8:30 pm Turn the Page Karaoke at VFW Post 2108 - Johnson City TN Karaoke at Bristol VFW Karaoke at Elizabethton VFW Elizabethton TN Karaoke w/ DJ Marques at Holiday Inn (Exit 7) - Bristol VA Karaoke at Numan’s - Johnson City *********************** SATURDAY Turn the Page Karaoke at VFW Post 2108 - Johnson City TN Karaoke w/ Absolute Entertainment at Macado’s - Kingsport Karaoke at Bristol VFW Karaoke at Numan’s - Johnson City TN ***********************

Spotlight Directory 50 Fifty Sports Tavern 2102 N. Roan Street Johnson City Acoustic Coffeehouse 415 W Walnut St. Johnson City 423/434.9872 Biggies Clam Bar 417 W Stone Dr Kingsport 423/765-9633 Bluegrass Country Barn Hansonville VA Bone Fire Smokehouse at the Hardware 260 W Main St Abingdon Va 276/623-0037 Bristol Brewery 41 Piedmont Ave Bristol VA 276/ 608-1220 Bristol’s Pickin’ Porch 620 State St Bristol 423/573-2262 Capone’s 227 E Main St Johnson City 423/928-2295 Carter Family Fold 3449 A. P. Carter Hwy Hiltons VA 276/594-0676 Country Club Bar & Grill 3080 W State St Bristol 423/844-0400 David Thompson’s Produce 251 Highway 107 Jonesborough 423/913-8123 Down Home 300 W. Main St. Johnson City 423/929-9822 Earhart Campground Bristol TN 423/764-4406 Elizabethton Elks Lodge 1000 N. Sycamore St Elizabethton 423/ 543-2341

Family Barn 15559 Lee Hwy Bristol VA Holiday Inn (Exit 7) 3005 Linden Dr Bristol Va 276/466-4100 Holston River Brewing Company 2621 Volunteer Pkwy Bristol TN Jiggy Ray’s 610 E. Elk Ave Elizabethton The Lions Club 116 Industrial Park Rd. Chilhowie VA 276/646-3916 O’Mainnin’s Pub 712 State St Bristol 423/844-0049 The Outdoorsman 4535 Highway 11W Kingsport Paramount Center for the Arts 516 State St. Bristol TN 423/ 274-8920 Quaker Steak & Lube 629 State St Bristol VA 276/644-9647 Sleepy Owl Brewery 151 E. Main St. Kingsport 423/390-8476 Sonny’s Marina & Café 109 One St. Gray TN 423/283-4014 Wellington’s Restaurant Carnegie Hotel 1216 W State of Franklin Rd Johnson City 423/979-6400 Willoughby Ruritan 5145 Marvin Rd Bulls Gap VA The Willow Tree Coffeehouse & Music Room 216 E Main St Johnson City Wolf Hills Brewing Company 350 Park St. SE Abingdon VA 276/451-5470 Yee Haw Brewing Company 126 Buffalo St. Johnson City

Alt-Country Artist Luke Mitchem @ Acoustic Coffeehouse | Tuesday, April 12th

DC’s Alt-Country artist, Luke Mitchem, is striking gold with his fifth studio album;For You I Build a Mountain. FYIBAM was released last year - after an extremely successful Kickstarter campaign. Since it’s release, Luke has been busy touring the US, Ireland, and working on his next album.

For tour dates, visit:

www.lukemitchem.com theloaferonline.com theloaferonline.com| |April April12, 12,2016 2016| |23 23

Active Jupiter Always A Thrill

ackyard amateur astronomers rarely tire of looking at the dynamic globe of the Lord of the Planets, Jupiter. And with today’s computerized imagery, stargazers are seeing things on Jupiter they’ve never seen before, like something smacking into the planet as recorded in mid-March 2016 by several amateurs. Even that $100 discount store telescope (under the bed or in the closet of the spare bedroom?) will show features of Jupiter and the constant ballet motion of its four giant moons. When it’s deep twilight around 9 pm look up in the east and see when you first spot a bright “star.” By 10 p.m., the object is brilliant, the bright, yellowish and mighty Jupiter. At 88,000 miles in diameter, 10 times the Earth’s, the 5th planet from the Sun is so huge that every other planet and all their moons would fit comfortable inside it. Asteroids and comets included! Jupiter is always the fourth brightest thing in the sky behind the Sun, Moon and Venus. And even though it is 425 million miles from Earth, it is easily seen in any telescope a tiny globe with stripes and up to four stars near it. Those stars are its largest four moons, discovered by Galileo in 1609. There are several key ingredients to having a happy experience whether looking through a cheap or expensive telescope. They are: • Telescope cool down – let the telescope’s optics including eyepieces adjusted to the ambient outside temperature. • Patience – keep watching through the eyepiece and more detail will “jump” out at you. • Steady ‘Scope – even footprints on the ground translate to unwanted vibrations transmitted through the telescope and its mount, jiggling the optical target. If you keep a vigilance of repeated watching of Jupiter, switching eyepieces back and forth from low to higher powers and back to low, you’ll find an ideal telescope power for the night. And that won’t necessarily be a “high power” of 500x by department store manufacturers—an absurd magnification for most serious amateur telescopes. The power of a telescope is a math formula where you divide the focal length of the eyepiece into the focal length of the telescope. These lengths are usually expressed in millimeters. A normal 8” backyard mirror telescope may be 2000 mm in length (one inch equals 25 mm). You’re using a 25mm eyepiece, and it magnifies the image to 80 power (80x). You see the whole globe of the Moon under this power, while Jupiter’s disk is small but visible, as are its four “star-point” moons. Most telescopes have a 12mm eyepiece, which doing the math, would make 166 power on an 8” mirror. Now Jupiter’s globe is much bigger with lots of detail seen in the cloud tops, and individual craters are singled out on our Moon. A lot of telescopes also come with a 6 mm or even smaller eyepiece. These are of inferior quality in a cheap telescope set, and the 333x it would yield is way too much

24 | April 12, 2016 | theloaferonline.com

power except under ideal conditions. At high powers, every telescope vibration is magnified while the intensity of the light from the subject is greatly dimmed. And all the air in the atmosphere is magnified as you look through it to see the planets and stars. But there are joyous times when the skies are clear and steady! That’s when the telescopes are cranked up to over 200-power with those eyepieces in the single digit millimeter focal lengths. Remember, the “power” factor is just magnification of the image gathered by the allimportant primary mirror or lens, or a system of each like the popular Cassegrain telescope. The higher the power, the dimmer the light and the more every movement is exaggerated. That’s why a steady mount, a smooth movement of the telescope parts, and gentle nudging of the telescope and eyepiece focuser are a must. Every little bump or tap on the ground can jiggle the object under any power. Amateur and professional astronomers alike use the highest power that the atmosphere will allow. Only under extremely dark and transparent skies can a telescope pull off magnifications above 400x. But two objects in the sky that are fun to try and push those magnification boundaries is the planet Jupiter and our Moon—both plainly visible in the sky this week. Big, bright and full of details, Jupiter is a fun night’s viewing for any size telescope. The first thing you notice about Jupiter is it is squashed at the poles, the equator being wider. That’s because the largest planet also rotates the fastest—one day is about 11 hours— and the centrifugal forces have spun the planet a wider middle. As the brain adjusts to this world being magnified from 400 million miles away, more and more detail is seen. There are very distinguished dark and light belts of various widths and colors that straddle the equator. The Polar Regions are light gray with little detail, but the belts straddling the equator go through hourly changes. As the eye relaxes and the brain visualizes what it is seeing, dark curls are seen at the cloud belt edges. And occasionally a light oval shape is seen inside a tinted banded area. If lucky, the legendary Great Red Spot itself may be seen. It is hardly red, but still a large pinkish oval that spans three Earths. That’s another reason to watch Jupiter every night! Basically, what we are seeing are the cloud tops of Jupiter at different depths. The dark bands are low areas, hundreds of miles below the lighter belts that circle around the atmosphere. The Great Red Spot and other smaller ovals like it are the tallest structures on Jupiter, these storms raising hundreds of miles above all the other clouds. As to why the clouds are so multicolored, and what sustains a storm like the Red Spot for hundreds of years are still mysteries. Even after NASA’s amazingly successful Galileo spacecraft studied Jupiter and its moons for five years from orbit (1995-2000), there are many more questions than answers. Those answers will come only by continually looking at giant Jupiter. And though you might not see a comet crash into the planet, just dusting off your telescope and taking a few looks at Jupiter is some simple backyard science that was impossible just 400 years ago! Reclaim that telescope from the spiders in the garage and put it to good use…amazing your friends with the tantalizing world of Jupiter.

Celestial events in the skies for the week of April 12th - 18th as compiled for The Loafer by Mark D. Marquette.

he evening sky is rapidly changing with the bright constellations of Winter dropping below the western horizon oneby-one. Jupiter is dominant high in the eastern sky, slowly moving west as the night wears on. But the week is highlighted by the Moon at its quarter phase a beautiful spectacle on these Spring evenings. In space exploration, man’s quest for the stars began this week with the first human orbiting Earth, a 27-year-old Russian who will forever be immortalized.

tions of “Yuri’s Night” are planned around the world. The world’s first spaceman was tragically killed in 1968 in a plane crash while training for a possible voyage to the Moon. Sharing this date in history is the 1981 maiden voyage of the entire Space Shuttle program with the launch of Columbia. And in 1985 Discovery was launched.

Wed. April 13

On this 1970 date in space history the entire world was focused on the rescue mission to bring Apollo 13 safely back to Earth. An oxygen tank explosion crippled the mothership, and the three astronauts were left to survive in the Lunar Module built for just two. Today it seems primitive that the only media was newspapers, radio and television—and people were anxious to know the latest news from NASA.

Sat. April 16

Two events that rocket engineers appreciate happened on this date: in 1946 the first captured German V-2 rocket was launched by the US Army from White Sands, NM; and in 1965 the first test-firing of the Saturn V rocket first stage of four engines was successful in Huntsville, Alabama.

Sun. April 17

Race Day at Bristol Motor Speedway! On this 1970 date in First Quarter Moon is today, our natural satellite standing directly south at sunset. Moving about 12 degrees east (left) each space history, America’s Apollo 13 aborted moon mission safely day, it is going 2,100 mph as you look up, racing ahead of Earth landed in the Pacific Ocean after a near-fatal four-day emergency ordeal. The rescue mission of the three astronauts is aptly porposition that is traveling around 1,100 mph on our axis. trayed in the Hollywood movie “Apollo 13.” The world watched Thurs. April 14 In a week when we celebrate the maiden voyage of Shuttle Co- closely as the crew was in mortal danger and NASA space engilumbia, on this date in 1972 NASA picked Kennedy Space Center neers were tested with their biggest challenge ever. and Vandenberg Air Force Base in California as the two shuttle Mon. April 18 Tues. April 12 Orion starts to nod toward the western horizon as it sets On this 1961 date in space launch sites. Vandenberg was built but never used as the 1986 around 10:30 pm, taking with it the bright star patterns of Winloss of Challenger changed the dynamics of the complex launch history, Yuri Gagarin was ter, including Taurus, Gemini, Canis Major and Canis Minor. rocketed into Earth orbit, the system and the base was mothballed. first human in space. Celebra- Fri. April 15

theloaferonline.com | April 12, 2016 | 25

tip #4 to get Ready For The April Experience

Stocking Up For The “Must Do” and “Must See”.

• Silver (or light-colored) permanent markers - the Pre-Race Super Pass allows guests to participate in a Track Walk on Sunday morning. That means you’ll get to walk on Bristol’s famed track surface just a few short hours before NASCAR’s field of Sprint Cup Series drivers compete in the Food City 500. Don’t miss a really cool experience at the start of the Track Walk, the opportunity to kneel down and ink a message on the black and white squares that make up the Start/ Finish Line. Lots of your fellow race fans will have black markers with them, making the white squares prime real estate for a signature to stand out. That leaves the black squares open for bold writing in any light color. Be prepared to seize the opportunity! • A Highlighter – when you study the online maps or Guest Guide map pages, you’ll want to highlight two sides of Bristol Motor Speedway’s property as areas to take in. The transition from individual souvenir haulers to NASCAR’s consolidated Fanatics Souvenir Superstore changed the ‘look’ of some fan areas, and their locations. The front entrance area of the track (where you’ll find the main marquee and iconic Bristol tower) now plays host to the Fan Zone, which includes Guest Welcome Village, a free concert stage, rides and some souvenirs. The massive NASCAR Superstore souvenir setup is now located on the back side of Bristol’s property in front of Hospitality Village. You’ll find it on the maps listed as Merchandise Midway, the name of a larger area that hosts a second Guest Welcome Village and fun partner displays. Hop on one of the free Trams for an easy ride from one side of the Speedway to the other. • Comfy Shoes – advice to pack this essential item might trump everything else. No matter which options you choose among the many ways to get around on Bristol’s property, you’re going to be on your feet for a full day at each event. Do yourself a favor and bring along the shoes that make your little piggies most happy. This is not the best time to break in a new pair. • Sunscreen – It’s spring time and you’ll be in east Tennessee. Even though the temperature and sunburn factors are much higher for August’s Night Races, you’ll catch a few rays here in April. Be prepared. Those 4 items wrap up Tip # 4 on the list of the Top 5 Things You Need to Know Now to pack for the upcoming race weekend.

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Forlorn strangers at bone fire smokehouse

n Wednesday, April13th, Bone Fire Smokehouse will be welcoming the return of one of the hottest up and coming bands on the Americana circuit to their famous stage. Forlorn Strangers is a Nashville, TN based Americana quintet, with members hailing from the great states of Florida, Maryland, Pennsylvania & Minnesota. The band is comprised of five songwriters, each having their own distinct sounds & styles that blend into one cohesive voice. Their music is rooted in family harmonies & flavored with guitars, banjo, mandolin, fiddle, dobro, & foot stomping percussion. The band was established in 2011 with Chris Banke (guitar, vocals), Benjamin Lusk (banjo, guitar, vocals), and Hannah Leigh Dempsey Lusk (mandolin, percussion, vocals), through a writer’s group in South Florida. Songwriting sessions evolved into a committed group, and the three moved to a farm in Waco, TX, for a creative sabbatical. Continuing to grow, they transplanted to Nashville, TN in 2013. Hannah’s sister, Abigail Dempsey (fiddle, percussion, vocals) joined the band soon thereafter. In September 2013, Forlorn Strangers released their debut EP, While the Grass Grows. It contains six dynamic tracks: from foot stomping hooks, train songs, and gospel choruses to yodeling ballads and introspective, thoughtful lyrics. It was recorded, mixed, and mastered in Nashville, TN by Jesse Thompson (upright bass, dobro), who joined the band in 2014 for their spring east coast tour. They covered thousands of miles gaining new fans and reviews, playing to rowdy bars and quiet coffee shops. Momentum from tour carried their return to Nashville where they received heavy radio play on Lightning 100, Nashville’s independent radio station. In Summer 2014, Forlorn Strangers returned to the studio as a completed quintet to record their second EP, American Magic Tricks. In late August the band set out on the road for a southeastern tour with American Magic Tricks hot off the presses. Forlorn Strangers delivered rousing live sets and the new EP to an ever-growing fan base. Upon return, they were featured as New & Notable on Noisetrade.com, where their record was the site’s fourth most downloaded album among thousands. Forlorn Strangers maintained a weekly residency throughout 2014 at The National Underground on Nashville’s famous lower Broadway strip. In the fall, they were featured a second time as Lightning 100’s Local Artist of the Week and toured through Virginia and the Midwest. They completed a five-week tour in February and early March, covering most of the country east of the Mississippi. In May 2015, the members of Forlorn Strangers became full time musicians and lived on the road throughout the summer. They travelled 20,000 miles playing music all over the country on a national tour. After a short break, they returned to the road in September and finished out the year on tour. In 2015, they’ve played over 180 shows in over 30 states. They joined the Yellow Couch Management roster, and signed a booking agent from Midwood Entertainment. Forlorn Strangers will record their debut full length album in January 2016, and they’re honored to be working with Grammy winning producer, Phil Madeira, at John Prine’s studio, The Butcher Shoppe, in Nashville, TN. The record is scheduled to be released early summer 2016 in tandem with a national tour. To help fund the creation of this record, please visit the homepage and donate to the Kickstarter campaign! Be sure to check them out at Bone Fire on the 13th. Show starts at 8pm. theloaferonline.com | April 12, 2016 | 27

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Changing Weezers

irst things first, Record Store Day is this weekend--April 16th--and I want to encourage you to seek your local, independently owned, record store and purchase some records. Why? A couple of reasons. Records can heal your heart, they are magical transportation devices full of music. Also, mom and pop record stores are DEEPLY important. They can’t beat Spotify, they can’t beat iTunes. They’re a place to meet and bond with other people who love music just as much as you do. Also, they’re local businesses, and if you don’t think supporting local business is a good thing, then I’m gonna build a wall around you and make you pay for it. Right, now that the PSA is done--wowzers is the new Charles Bradley album a thing of beauty! What? You don’t know who Charles Bradley is, you don’t have any music from the mighty house that is Daptone Records in your collection!? Woe unto you, Kangaroo Boy. Daptone Records is a brooklyn based label that specializes in soul music. Real, honest, beautiful soul music--with a vinyl centric approach and an aesthetic similar to the glory days of Stax Records outta Memphis. “Changes” is Bradley’s third album on Daptone subsidiary Dunham Records, and it’s an absolute knock out. I first became aware of Bradley through his amazing cover of Neil Young’s “Heart of Gold,” and this new LP takes its title from a previously released Record Store Day only cover of Black Sabbath’s “Changes.” Bradley is an underdog who is enjoying a breakout career at the age of 67, since being discovered as a James Brown imperson-

ator. It’s hard to not love the guy, but when you hear his soulful wail--it’s downright impossible. This is a record you need to hear, and it’s Bradley’s strongest album to date. Wall to wall perfection. Speaking of things that will fill your heart with love, Weezer has a new album out, and it’s their second in a row to actually sound like a Weezer album. In 2014, Weezer released “Everything Will Be Alright In The End,” a true return to form album that partnered the band back with Ric Ocasek and brought Weezer back to their there was much rejoicing. With the band’s new album “The White Album”--keeping with the recurring theme of self-titled albums distinguished by the color on the cover--Weezer keeps the winning streak going, showing their return to form was not just a fluke. “The White Album” features a summery/beach vibe, with moments where the band are channeling Brian Wilson. It’s a fast, catchy, snappy album coming in at around 35 minutes running time. It’ll also be the soundtrack your warm weather adventures deserve. It’s just especially hearting to me to know that Weezer has made two really great albums in a row. Even if their follow up stumbles, it’s been nice to see this beloved band on a winning streak. Why wouldn’t you want to fill your life with such lovely sounds? Check out both records soon. Buy some this weekend. See you next week.

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In Theaters Now

“THE FLASH”

fter many years of happily calling this column has taken the role and made it his own ( even though there will be a different big Screen Scenes, I felt a change was necessary. Hench s c r e e n Flash, briefly seen in “Batman v Superman”), as he absolutely beams on forth I am calling my column Pop Life, and while screen. Gustin is perfect for the mostly upbeat Flash, a good counterpart the main emphasis will still be for the more dour Green Arrow. Gustin’s supporting cast is wonderful, on current movies, and the show moves at a good pace, and features quality writing. The I am going to cover only falter came in season 2 when a potential love interest for Flash all aspects of current fell flat, so the character was dismissed from the show. entertainment. Everything from plays The public is loving “The Flash”, as ratings prove, and the show to comic books will be discussed in this new format. So join has won several awards including a People’s Choice Award. It’s me for the ride as we retire Screen Scenes and begin the age of not too late to catch up on “The Flash”, as you can stream the first Pop Life. season or purchase on DVD or Blu-ray. “The Flash” is a comic book This week I am reviewing the current television show “The show that successfully delivers action and adventure with the polFlash” now in its second season on the CW Network. Since “Arish of a theatrical film. “The Flash” runs Tuesday nights at 8 on the row” (featuring the DC character Green Arrow) debuted in 2012, CW. the CW has been the home for various characters from the DC 1/2 out of 5 stars comics universe. The character of the Flash first made his television debut in 1990, stared John Wesley Shipp in the title role and ran for 1 season. “Flash” (sorry, couldn’t help myself) forward to IN THEATRES NOW The Arts Array presents 2016, and the current version of Flash, starring Gran Gustin of Box Office Top 10 “Glee” fame, is in its second successful season. When the show debuted in 2014, it became the second-most watched premiere Batman v Superman: The Arts Array Film Series in CW history, just behind “The Vampire Diaries”, which deDawn of Justice presented by Virginia Highlands buted in 2009. This version of The Flash features superb special (2016) Community College is in its 45th effects which rival those in most theatrical superhero movies. year. All films are presented at After making a successful debut, “The Flash” continued with 23 the Abingdon Cinemall on MonZootopia (2016) episodes for season 1, while introducing us to core characters, days and Tuesdays at 4 p.m. and including Detective Joe West (Jesse L. Martin), who took in Barry again at 7:30 pm. My Big Fat Greek Allen/Flash after his mother was murdered, supposedly by his Hitchcock/Truffaut Wedding 2 (2016) father (John Wesley Shipp!). (April 18 and 19) How did Flash become Flash? Barry is struck by lightning In 1962, Alfred Hitchcock and God’s Not Dead 2 during a thunderstorm after the city was bathed in an unknown a 30-year-old François Truffaut radiation from a malfunctioning particle accelerator (only in the (2016) sequestered themselves in a windowless Hollywood office for comics). The combination of the lightning and radiation cause Barry to develop the power of superhuman seed, which catches Miracles from Heaven a week-long conversation. The result: the seminal book “Hitchthe attention of Dr. Harrison Wells (Tom Cavanagh), the dis(2016) cock/Truffaut,” published a half graced designer of the failed particle accelerator. Dr. Wells makes century ago, dissecting every film Barry a part of his studies at Star Labs, after he discovers Barry Allegiant (2016) Hitchcock had made until then, The series is co-sponsored by the is not the only one in Central City impacted by the radiation. illuminating his masterful tech- Abingdon Cinemall, the SouthBarry vows to use his powers to protect the city from typical 10 Cloverfield Lane niques, making the case for the west Virginia Higher Education criminals and metahuman criminals. Season 1 featured Barry (2016) popular director as an artist, and Center, Emory& Henry College, introducing The Flash to Central City as he battled various bad influencing generations of film- and King University. guys. A highlight from Season 1, was a visit from a villain from Admission to the films is free Meet the Blacks (2016) makers. Kent Jones brings “the the first Flash show, The Trickster (Mark Hamill), who teams up Bible of Cinema” to invigorating for the faculties and students with a new Trickster to fight Flash. During the course of two life. He interviews filmmakers at the supporting institutions. Eye in the Sky (2015) seasons, Flash and Arrow (Steven Amell) have had crossover whose work has been profoundly Members of the general commuepisodes with their shows, and introduced new heroes, includinfluenced by Hitchcock. nity may attend for $7.75. Deadpool (2016) The Arts Array Film Series is For a brochure on the series or ing Atom ( former Superman Brandon Routh), which led to the part of the comprehensive cultur- more information, please contact spinoff show “DC’s Legends of Tomorrow.” Most recently Flash IMDb.com al outreach program of Virginia Tommy Bryant at 276-739-2451 or made a guest appearance on the CBS show “Supergirl”, result(04/09/2016) Highlands Community College. email him at tbryant@vhcc.edu. ing in huge ratings for the Girl of Steel. I love how Grant Gustin

****

“HITCHCOCK/TRUFFAUT”

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The Changing Face of the Presidency

ave you ever been to the town of Westfield, NY? How about the village of Westfield, NY? Indeed, in Chautauqua County, about an hour southwest of Buffalo, you can find one of each. Such an occurrence actually isn’t that strange in The Empire State. The hierarchical geography there, as much as I understand it myself, dictates that, just as a state is divided into counties, each county in NY is further subdivided into towns, regardless of how the population is actually distributed. Within towns, you may or may not have villages, which are the real, recognizable population clusters. That is, unless you live in a city. Oh, and none of this applies to the five boroughs of New York City, which actually count as five counties (Bronx, Queens, Kings, New York, and Richmond) – all of which adhere to another system altogether. Got it? Ok then. Anyway, the Town of Westfield (pop. 4900) prides itself on being the “Grape Juice Capital of the World.” It sits amidst roughly 30,000 acres of vineyards growing Concord grapes – the variety

from which grape juice is made. It’s such an ideal place for growing grapes, that Welch’s moved their corporate headquarters there in 1897. Though the HQ has since relocated, Westfield is still home to a number of grape juice production facilities, including a major Welch’s processing plant. Ok, enough with the grape juice. Within the Town of Westfield is the Village of Westfield (pop. 3,200) which was once home to a young girl named Grace Bedell, who with an impulsive stroke of the pen, changed the face of the presidency. Back in 1860, when future president / vampire hunter Abraham Lincoln was running for the highest office in the land, Miss Bedell came across a photo of the candidate and concluded that his face was utterly and completely un-electable. So, she wrote Lincoln a letter to tell him so, saying in part, “[I]f you let your whiskers grow you would

...

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TRIVIAL

continued on page 32

AGNES ... continued from page 12 formed throughout the Southeast filling leading roles in well over 100 productions, taught high school Drama/Theatre, is a professional Story Teller, and a recipient of a 2006 Distinguished Artist Award. Judy gives life to Mother Superior with her high level of acting prowess and a pinch of sass! Judy has plenty of experience playing a different, comical version, of Mother Superior in both Nunsense and Nunsense 2. When asked how this version of Mother Superior was different from what she has played before, Judy said this Mother Superior is “interesting, very dramatic, with a lot of depth.” In the middle of the controversy is the young novice nun, Agnes, portrayed by Kaitlynn Newcomb, a senior at Daniel Boone High School. Kaitlynn has been acting since 3rd grade and is in her fourth year of Daniel Boone’s theatre program. Her favorite roles prior to this show were Imogene Herdman in “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever,” Moriah in “Twelve Night,” and Phantom in “Rocky Horror Picture Show.” Her last show at KTG was last spring under the direction of Karen Elb in the production of “Much Ado About Nothing.” When asked about the role of Agnes, Kaitlynn says, “Agnes has been a dream role for me for many years. I used one of herAgnes’ monologues to get in to the MasterWorks Festival at Grace College in Winona Lanke, IN in 2015 and then performed Off-Broadway at Theatre315.” Kaitlynn has been taking vocal lessons for 3 years, which helped her secure the role due to the prominence of Agnes’ vocal ability during the show. She will enter MTSU this fall to major in theatre with a minor in business. “Agnes of God” is directed by KTG’s Executive Artistic Director, Tina Radtke, with Lighting Design by Karen Elb. Shows are at 7 p.m. on Thursday, April 14, Friday, April 15 and Saturday, April 16 at the Kingsport Center for Higher Education located at 200 West Market Street in Downtown Kingsport. Tickets are $10 and can be purchased from KTG’s website at www.KingsportTheatre.org, by calling (423) 392-8427, or in the office on the 2nd floor of the Renaissance Center.

Obstacle Course and Fun Run

tip #5 to get Ready For The April Experience Schedule Properly To Take In The Full Show.

First-Time fans and Bristol old-timers alike tell us it’s easy to be surprised by the magnitude of events taking place prior to the actual start of a NASCAR race here. Did you get goosebumps when you first found out the Doobie Brothers would play a pre-race concert before Sunday’s Food City 500? Have you heard about Bristol’s one-of-a-kind way drivers introduce themselves before getting behind the wheel? Then you’ll want to set alarms for key parts of the schedule before you start the day to be sure you’re inside the Last Great Colosseum before all the things prior to the Green Flag take place. Take note: The Food City 500 officially starts at 1 PM. The Doobie Brothers concert starts on the track’s backstretch at 11:20 AM. The always-entertaining Bristol Driver Intros start at 12:20 PM from Turn 3. Best advice is to be inside with a mid-morning snack just a bit after 11:00 AM on Sprint Cup Series race day. That also gives you a little time to gawk at Bristol’s new addition, Colossus TV. Sidebar: Have you heard about this modern marvel of engineering? The final phase of construction is taking place right now. Colossus is a massive new video board behemoth that will premiere during the race weekend. From the looks of it so far, even the extraordinary name doesn’t do it justice. No wonder it will claim title as the world’s largest outdoor center-hung 4-sided screen when fans get the first look. The final part of this Trip Tip involves planning early. Each ticket for Bristol races is renewable, meaning you have right of first refusal for that same seat next season. If you plan to make a return trip for the 2017 April race weekend, put those wheels in motion while you’re on site. Fans who renew their tickets during the 2016 event weekend get to take part in an exclusive Bristol opportunity known as the Winner’s Celebration. That gathering takes place after the Food City 500 on the barely-cooled-down racing surface at the Start/ Finish Line. You’ll be treated to entertainment, then get to hear from the race winner shortly after he (or she) has hoisted the trophy in Victory Lane. Look for the banners about renewing tickets on-site, or check with any of the ticket booths for more information. It’s a great way to cap off your Food City 500 awesome experience!

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Fitzgerald Glider Kits sponsors Dash 4 Cash Heat Racing at BMS April 16

he popular NASCAR XFINITY Series Dash 4 Cash heat race April 16 ratchets up the intensity with a new name, the Fitzgerald Glider Kits 300. Fitzgerald, a Tennessee-based company that is North America’s leader in glider kit assembly, is joining the Bristol Motor Speedway family as a multi-year entitlement sponsor of the NASCAR XFINITY Series race. The Fitzgerald Glider Kits 300 is the first race of an XFINITY Series/K&N Pro Series doubleheader on Saturday during the Food City 500 weekend. The 2016 edition of the Fitzgerald Glider Kits 300 will feature the new Dash 4 Cash format, which will include two Heats and a Main event. Qualifying for the event will set the 40-car field with odd-numbered qualifiers competing in the first Heat and even-numbered qualifiers contending in the second. Finishing order from the two Heats will then set the final starting spots for the Main event of the Fitzgerald Glider Kits 300. The top two series regulars from each Heat will then battle for an additional $100,000 Dash 4 Cash bonus. “Fitzgerald is a great American company, a leader in the transportation industry and a good fit as the entitlement sponsor for our NASCAR XFINITY Series April race,” said Jerry Caldwell, executive vice president and general manager for Bristol Motor Speedway. “The response to the new Dash 4 Cash heat racing has

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been outstanding and we are confident that the Fitzgerald Glider Kits 300 will be a fan favorite on the circuit this season.” For over 20 years, Fitzgerald has been the largest glider kit dealer in the country. They have refined their production of gliders, a new cab and chassis with rear axles but without an engine, transmission or accessorial parts, into a steady enterprise, which earned them the name of “The Glider Kit Specialist”. The company produces more than 4,000 trucks per year and offers various models of the Peterbilt, Kenworth, Freightliner, and Western Star brands. “As a Tennessee-based company, it was hard to pass up the opportunity to sponsor one of the most exciting tracks on the NASCAR circuit,” said founder Tommy Fitzgerald Sr. “We try hard to capture every opportunity we can to show pride here in our home state, so the partnership with Bristol Motor Speedway seemed like a natural fit. To help add to this excitement, we will also be sponsoring the No. 22 Fitzgerald Gliders Kit car that led every lap at last year’s race and look forward to Joey Logano giving his all to bring us home the trophy.” Team Penske teammate Brad Keselowski will unveil the Fitzgerald paint scheme this Thursday, March 17 at 10 a.m. at the company’s corporate headquarters in Byrdstown, Tenn. In addition to Logano representing the brand at Bristol, the Fitzgerald Glider Kits Ford will compete in three other NASCAR XFINITY Series races this season. p.m. with the second Heat beginning at approximately 1:10 p.m. The Main event is scheduled for 1:45 p.m. Tickets for Saturday’s doubleheader start at just $35 for adults and $17 for youth (12 and under). Weekend packages - which include the Food City 500 and the Fitzgerald Glider Kits 300 - are also on sale, beginning at $89 for adults and $44 for youth (12 and under). For more information, visit BristolTix.com or call (855) 580-5525.

TRIVIAL ... continued from page 29 look a great deal better for your face is so thin. All the ladies like whiskers and they would tease their husbands to vote for you and then you would be President.” Direct though it was, she made a pretty good point – Lincoln’s appearance was indeed rather odd. At the time though, old Honest Abe was reluctant to change the look that had already gotten to the brink of the presidency. He actually wrote her back, “As to the whiskers, having never worn any, do you not think people would call it a silly affectation if I were to begin it now?” Eventually though, he relented, soon after adopting the beard, which, with the stove pipe hat, became one of his most recognizable features. By the time he travelled to Washington to assume office a few months later, President-elect Lincoln was pleasantly surprised to find that his train would be passing through Westfield. Sporting his now-familiar crumb catcher, he requested a meeting with the little girl who had convinced him to grow it. At the sight of the youngster, he sat down next to her, chatted with her for a few moments, and kissed her on the cheek (thus demonstrating the consequences of her letter from the perspective of Mrs. Lincoln). In 1999 this encounter inspired the locals to install a pair of bronze statues – one of Lincoln and one of Grace – to mark Westfield’s one non-grape-related claim to fame.

SWAN LAKE ... continued from page 13 Medal for the Junior Division 2015 Valentina Koslova International Ballet Comptetition and a Bronze Medal (Preprofessional Division) winner in the 2015 World Ballet Competition in Florida. Nations is 17 years old. A total of five professional guest artists will be soon arriving in Kingsport to take part in this production. Tickets may be purchased through the Kingsport Ballet box office: 423-378-3967 or through their website: www. kingsportballet.org or Facebook: https://www.facebook. com/kingsportballet. Ticket prices are $20 for adult, $16 for students and seniors, $10 for college students and children 5 years and under. Special promotional rates are offered to Eastman employees who are first-time attendees. Call for more information. Join us on facebook, twitter and instagram!

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Contra & Family Dance in Jonesborough!

he Historic Jonesborough Dance Society will present a community contra dance on Saturday April 16, 2016 at the Jonesborough Visitors Center at 117 Boone Street. Class for beginning contra dancers will happen at 7:00 pm. The dance will run from 7:30-10:30 pm with a waltz and Klondike Bar break at 9:00pm. Coming to Jonesborough to perform for the dance will be the Dancing Bears from Asheville. Calling for the dance will be the ever popular Emily Abel from Asheville. Now that contra dance has become so popular all over this country, there are many step-by-step guides on how to do contra dance on the internet. “Even though we teach a brief workshop prior to the dance, there are other resources including contra dance videos, essays and other instruction available all over the web” states event organizer David Wiley. “We also encourage newcomers to partner with experienced dancers for the first few dances to build their confidence and show them how easy and fun contra dancing is”. You can bring the whole family to dance. The Dancing Bears consists of Lew Gelfond on fiddle, Mark Langner on guitar, John Culp mandolin and banjo. Lew Gelfond has been playing the fiddle since long before the cows came home. He is a solo performer of old time fiddle and banjo music and also plays swing, ragtime, Celtic, gypsy, country, Klezmer, tangos, and other traditional music. Lew performs at schools, concerts, workshops and festivals and has been a violin, viola and fiddle teacher for over 20 years. Mark Langner started playing keyboards and guitar in a garage rock band in high school.

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In college, he played coffeehouses as part of a duo which did an eclectic mix of music ranging from Merle Haggard to Grateful Dead to Frank Zappa. Mark’s current interest is in swing and jazz, which colors most things the Bears do. Mark is also a certified hypnotherapist and builds acoustic arch top guitars. John Culp got his first real guitar on his 16th birthday and has been picking’ strings ever since. Since meeting his bride and favorite caller, Barbara Groh, and becoming submerged in the contra dance community, he has concentrated on mandolin and tenor banjo. Rounding out the quartet is Jeff Hersk on bass. Emily Abel, a resident of Asheville area, has been calling contra dances all over country for three years working a lot with the ContraForce band which will be featured at Contrathon weekend in May. A graduate of Salem College in Winston-Salem, NC, Emily is known to sing many of her calls with a beautiful soft-touch voice. Come as you are; wear soft flexible shoes for dancing. Come to dance, join the potluck dinner or just to listen. No partner is necessary. All dances are taught. As always, our dances are smoke and alcohol free. Admission to the dance is $7, $5 for HJDS members and $5 for full time students. Families with their own children are all admitted for only $15. For further information call event organizer, David Wiley, at 423-534-8879 or visit www.historicjonesboroughdancesociety.org or Historic Jonesborough Dance Society on FACEBOOK.

Abingdon celebrates

the season with a

town-wide spring fling

he Town of Abingdon celebrates the beginning of outdoor recreation and festival season with a spring fling April 16-17. The weekend of events includes Abingdon’s annual Earth Day event, the opening day of the Abingdon Farmers Market, and “opening day” for the Virginia Creeper Trail. The outdoor fun continues with live music Saturday night and Sunday afternoon, plus the reinstatement of spring/summer hours for many of Abingdon’s restaurants. Abingdon encourages visitors to go green, and leave their car at one of the town’s easily accessible public parking lots. The events are happening town-wide, and most are within a short distance of free public parking, and connected by Abingdon’s urban greenway, the Creeper Trail Extension, which runs from the Farmers Market Pavilion to the trailhead of the Virginia Creeper Trail. All activities are free and open to the public. Saturday April 16, 2016 The Abingdon Farmers Market opens for the season, with a raffle, food samples, cooking demonstrations and over 50 local vendors selling produce, meats, eggs, seedlings, crafts and hot foods. The first 45 guests will receive a reusable shopping and a seedling. 8:00am to 1:00pm at the Farmers Market Pavilion, 100 Remsburg Drive. http://www.abingdonfarmersmarket.com/ Just across the street, Abingdon celebrates Earth Day with free kids activities, e-waste recycling, a build-your-own-rain-barrel workshop, and dozens of booths from local businesses and non-profits. 9:00am to 1:00pm on the lawn of the FieldsPenn House, 208 W. Main Street. visitabingdonvirginia.com/abingdons-earth-day-celebration Take a short walk or bike ride down the Creeper Trail Extension to the trailhead of the Virginia Creeper Trail for Opening Day for Trails. This nation-wide celebration kicks off the outdoor recreation season. The Creeper Trail is celebrating with a bike tune-up day at the Creeper Trail Bike Shop, free juice samples from White Birch Juice, an open house at the Creeper Trail Welcome Center, and a nature walk along the trail at 11:00am with Wayne Miller, President of the Creeper Trail Club. 11:00am – 3:00pm at the Creeper Trail Welcome Center, 300 Green Spring Road. Saturday night, Wolf Hills Brewing presents the bluegrass group The Crooked Roadies at their tasting room on Park Street. Warmer weather means the brewery will open its doors, and audiences will spill out in to the fenced-in back patio to enjoy the band while enjoying the spring. 5:30pm – 8:30pm at Wolf Hills Brewing, 350 Park Street. wolfhillsbrewing.com Sunday April 17, 2016 Sunday afternoon, enjoy a free outdoor concert with Music on the Lawn at the Martha. The sounds of 1930s Gypsy Jazz are kept alive by the Roanoke band Le Hotclub. Concerts take place at the gazebo on the side lawn of the Martha Washington Inn & Spa. Bring lawn chairs or a blanket for this free, family friendly event. The Martha will offer food service to concert-goers, or bring a picnic. 1:00pm – 3:00pm at The Martha Washington Inn & Spa, 150 West Main Street. abingdonmusicexperience.com/category/music-on-the-lawn/ Spring also means extended hours for Abingdon’s restaurants, many of which also offer porch or patio dining, including 128 Pecan, The Peppermill, Political Dogs, Pop Ellis Soda Shoppe and Rain. See all restaurant listings at: visitabingdonvirginia.com/dining/ To take advantage of everything happening during spring fling weekend, visitors will want to spend the night Saturday at one of Abingdon’s hotels, B&Bs or cottages. See all lodging listings at: visitabingdonvirginia.com/where-to-stay theloaferonline.com | April 12, 2016 | 37

Answers found on page 40

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pets of the week

Allie is a beautiful 4 year old calico domestic short hair female.She is spayed and up to date on all vaccines. She needs to be adopted with her brother Cole as they are deeply bonded

Cole is a 4 year domestic short hair male. He is neutered and up to date on all vaccines. You canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t tell from the photo but this big boy weighs 27 pounds. He and Allie are very loving. The 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 12pm-3pm and Sun 2pm-4pm. Website is www.bridgehomerescue@gmail.com or like them on Facebook: www.Facebook. com/bridgehome

SELL .... YOUR .... STUFF

www.theloaferonline.com

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things to do

Art in the Heart Gallery Upcoming Classes:

Fused Glass Square plate Class by Karen Hitchcock

Thursday April 21, 2016 -6pm to 8pm Cost per student $50 Materials fee paid to Karen Hitchcock day of class $15.00 Total cost per student $65 Min students - 4 max students – 8

Monthly Book Sale at Gray Branch Library The first monthly Friends of the Library Book Sale at Gray Branch Library will be April 15 and 16. Hours will be from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Friday, and from 9 a.m. to noon on Saturday. Fiction and nonfiction books for adults and children will be available for purchase. The sales will be held on the third Friday and the following Saturday of each month. This event is sponsored by the Friends of the Washington County Library (FOL), and all proceeds go to the organization. The Friends fund the children’s and teen programming at both libraries, and have provided new shelving for the Gray Branch in the last few years. For more information call the library at 477-1550.

Northeast State 2016 Golf Tournament at Glenrochie Okay, so you didn’t get invited to The Masters. But spring is here and the links are calling. So grab your sticks and play in the Northeast State Community College Foundation’s 2016 Golf Tournament happening Friday, April 29 at the Glenrochie Country Club, in Abingdon, Va. Tournament check-in begins at 8:00 a.m. with a shotgun start at 9:00 a.m. All proceeds from the event will benefit student scholarships and programs at Northeast State. In case of inclement weather, the tournament’s rain date is Friday, May 6. The tournament features two team

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sponsorship levels. An Eagle Sponsor of $500 covers a four-person team and signage at the tournament. A Birdie Sponsor of $250 covers a two-person team and signage. The single player entry fee is $100. All sponsorships are tax-deductible minus the player fee and sign fee. Glenrochie will have beverage carts on the greens during the tournament, and a luncheon will be served at 1:30 p.m. in the clubhouse. Guests are welcomed and individuals will be paired with other players. All participants will receive a goodie bag provided by Lake Pointe Creative Marketing. There will also be door prizes at the luncheon along with prizes for the following: First, Second, and Third place teams, closest to the pin (3 locations), longest drive, and hole-in-one. All tourney entrants can purchase a red tee & Mulligan for $20. The day also features a putting contest with a $10 entry fee. The winner receives a $100 VISA gift card. All sponsorships are tax-deductible minus the player fee and sign fee. The tournament continues the College’s 50th anniversary celebration. Registration deadline is April 25. Golfers who participate win the satisfaction of helping students earn a college degree to improve their lives and our region as a whole. The Northeast State Community College Foundation supports academics, community service, educational scholarships and other programs offered by the college. In partnership with the community, the college sustains the effort toward improving the quality of life for residents of the Northeast Tennessee region. For more information, contact Rebekah Bishop, Alumni & Events Coordinator at 423.354.5278. or ribishop@ northeaststate.edu.

Computer Q & A Ask an Expert will be offered Saturday, April 23, from 10 a.m. to noon at the Gray Branch Library. Register for an individual 30 minute session with a computer expert. Bring your own portable electronic device and your questions. This is a great time to get your tablet or phone set up with useful library apps.

Call 477-1550 to set your appointment time. Registration is requested and recommended. Walk-ins will be worked in as space allows, on a first-come, firstserved basis. These Q & A classes will be held on the fourth Saturday of each month. However, due to the Memorial Day weekend, the next class will be held Saturday, May 21, instead.

Functional Fitness Fridays Memorial Park Community Center, 510 Bert St., will offer Functional Fitness Fridays from 8:30-9:30 a.m. on April 15, 22 and 29. Classes will include functional activities focusing on balance and stability to improve daily living for ages 50 and older. Cost is $2 per class. Pre-registration is not required but participants will need to sign in and pay before each class. For more information, please call (423)434-6237.

Spots still available in upcoming papier-mâché workshop Tusculum College’s Doak House Museum will offer classes in papiermâché sculpture on April 23 and 30, from 9 a.m. to noon. According to Dollie Boyd, director of museums at Tusculum College, papier-mâché art is a fun way to create a variety of sculptures, from masks to piñatas. “With this lightweight, easy

to use medium, the only limit is your imagination,” she said. Participants will learn the basics of papier-mâché, from making armature to sculpting and painting the finished project. This class will focus on creating a decorative wall medallion. Materials will be provided. The class is open to the public, ages 12 and up, for a fee of $30. Space is limited and reservations are required. For more information and reservations, contact Dollie Boyd at the Doak House Museum dboyd@tusculum.edu or 423-636-8554.

Mindful Recovery Group Open To the Public Anyone recovering from any type of addiction, including alcoholism and drug addiction, is invited to attend the Mindful Recovery Group. The group can serve as an alternative or addition to traditional 12-step recovery meetings and does not require any particular belief or spiritual practice. Mindful Recovery meets every Thursday from 7:00 – 8:00 p.m. at the Appalachian Dharma & Meditation Center (ADMC), 108 W. 10th Ave., Suite 3, Johnson City, TN. The meeting is free and confidential. For more information, contact mindfulrecovery4et@ gmail.com. ADMC offers opportunities to explore Buddhism, meditation of various forms, mindfulness and much more. For more information about ADMC, visit the website www.dharma4et.org or contact dharma4et@gmail.com.

DROP QUOTE: “But you have one thing that may save you, and that is your youth. This is your great strength. It is also why I hate and fear you.” CRYPTOGRAM: We are indeed much more than what we eat, but what we eat can nevertheless help us to be much more than what we are.

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THE INTERNET OF US

ichael Patrick Lynch has written one of the most provocative books to come along in quite some time. THE INTERNET OF THINGS: KNOWING MORE AND UNDERSTANDING LESS IN THE AGE OF BIG DATA provides a context for thinking about what it means to live in a digital universe characterized by ubiquitous information. If you don’t know exactly what “ubiquitous” means or how it is pronounced, you should Google it immediately. And this is a central focus of Lynch’s book—that we live in a world where accessing facts and definitions is no longer a challenge. The challenge lies not in accessing

i n formation but in learning how to understand it in

a critical way. And the key to understanding this challenge is in realizing just how much information is out there to challenge our understanding. In our age of big data and the oft-cited “Internet of Things” (IoT), we are in danger of drowning in a sea of information. This sea grows wider and deeper each day, largely because of an almost incomprehensible multiplication of devices, both large and small, that are out there collecting data 24/7. Now that nearly everything from refrigerators and lightbulbs to automobiles and toilets are equipped with data-gathering and broadcasting sensors, we are in the process of witnessing the largest proliferation of information in human history. According to Lynch, by 2007 “there were already 10 million sensors of all sorts connected to the Internet, and some projections have that number rising to 100 trillion by 2030 if not before.” As Lynch points out, we are not actually in danger of drowning in a sea of information, as I indicated above, because “we are adapting to life under water, we are breathing it all in, becoming digitally human. Information is the atmosphere—what the philosopher Luciano Floridi calls the infosphere—of our lives.” Like a fish in a fishbowl, we are no longer able to perceive what life is like outside. Ironically, however, as book’s title says, we are in danger of “knowing more but understanding less” as we dive deeper and deeper into the infosphere. According to Lynch, “our digital form of life tends to put more stock in some kinds of knowing than others. Google-knowing has become so fast, easy and productive that it tends to swamp the value of other ways knowing like understanding.” Our all-too-familiar mode of “Google-knowing” might be a “basis for understanding,” but it “is not itself the same as understanding because it is not a creative act.” In many ways, Lynch’s quest for understanding reminds us of the now iconic “red pill-blue bill” options presented in Lily and Lana Wachowski’s 1999 movie “The Matrix.” The central character of Morpheus presents our protagonist Neo with an intriguing choice: “You take the blue pill, the story ends. You wake up in your bed and believe whatever you want to believe. You take the red pill, you stay in Wonderland, and I show you how deep the rabbit hole goes.” We can think of the blue pill as the level of “Google-knowing,” which is very wide but not very deep, and certainly not deep enough to take us down any rabbit holes. When we go beyond the mere acquisition of knowledge, we enter the realm of understanding, where we exercise critical thinking and creativity to learn how to learn. Learning how to learn is what happens when we opt for the red pill. And this kind of learning is not found on the Internet, but results from our reflections

on what it all means. More important, “understanding is not something [we] can outsource” or find as the result of a Google search. In my classes I emphasize the importance of cultivating curiosity, creativity, and connectedness. Curiosity, which fosters the skill and the habit of asking questions, is the starting point for understanding. Creativity goes beyond mere acquisition of factual knowledge and combines information in new and innovative ways. And connectedness allows the student to transfer knowledge from one context to another, thereby fostering understanding. If only our standardized tests could measure these three things. But, alas, all they can do is measure knowledge but not understanding. And, in the era of Google, we have ready access to knowledge that doesn’t require testing. Lynch’s conclusion is one we desperately need in a world of ubiquitous information: “We should not fear information technology per se, or the ‘Internet’ in the expanding Internet of Us. It is the ‘us’ part—or our uses of technology—that we must mind. We are becoming more powerful knowers. We just must also strive to be more responsible, understanding ones.” And we can’t do that by merely taking the blue pill offered to us by Google. We should instead opt for the red pill that leads us down the rabbit hole of understanding. Here’s wishing you a week filled with learning, curiosity, creativity, and connectedness. See you next week. theloaferonline.com | April 12, 2016 | 43