The Loafer April 25th by The Loafer

theloaferonline.com | April 25, 2017

on the cover

Volume 31 • Issue #20 Publisher Luci Tate

MerleFest

Editor Graphic Arts Director Don Sprinkle

30th Celebration

Cover Design Bill May

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

Founder: Bill Williams Let’s Get Social!

columns & reviews

Office Coordinator Amanda Lane

16 17 18 20 22 23 24 27

Stargazer Celebrate Astronomy Day 2017 Skies This Week Batteries Not Included From Hell It Ended Pop Life The Fate of the Furious Appalachian Wanderers Stones River National Battlefield The Casual Word Waste Basket Puzzle Page Kelly’s Place Has Your Self Been Quantified?

your week’s line-up

Advertising Dave Carter Patti Barr Shawn Hale Paul Kavanaugh Julie Noecker April Adams

4 MERLEFEST 6 Mother's Finest: Exclusive Interview Part 2 8 A Midsummer Night's Dream 9 Go Red for Women Luncheon 10 Art, Wine & Cheese Stroll 11 Bringing Music & Comedy Together 13 Whitetop Mountain Band @ Carter Fold 14 Spotlight 19 Opening Day for Storytelling Season 21 National Volunteer Month 23 Dangermuffin's Spring Tour 25 Pets Of The Week 26 Things To Do

theloaferonline.com | April 25, 2017

Early Bird discount available through April 26

With only two days until the start of MerleFest 2017, presented by Window World, the campus of Wilkes Community College in Wilkesboro, N.C. is buzzing with activity. Starting this Thursday, April 27, at 2:30 p.m., and running through Sunday, April 30, an estimated 75,000 participants will gather at this year’s 30th homecoming of musicians and music lovers to celebrate the world renowned MerleFest.

ith over 100 artists performing on 13 stages spread across campus, MerleFest fans have come to expect the unexpected. Late night jam sessions, band competitions, special guests onstage, impromptu dance parties and one-timeonly musical collaborations are all a part of the fabric of MerleFest – and a testament to the enduring vision of Doc Watson and the Watson family. A key part of this vision is Doc’s love of “traditional plus” music. He created the moniker “traditional plus” to describe a unique mix of music based on the traditional, roots-oriented sounds of the Appalachian, including bluegrass and old-time, and expanded to include Americana, country, blues, rock and “whatever other styles we were in the mood to play,” as Doc put it. Today this “traditional plus” spirit means that country music star Zac Brown will rub shoulders with young bluegrass visionary Sierra Hull or Steep Canyon Rangers will share the stage with bluegrass legend Del McCoury. As the nation’s largest roots and Americana festival, MerleFest has room for all those who treasure the American traditions. The 30th celebration of MerleFest is a milestone that brings many MerleFest artists back to the festival’s stages for fresh collaborations and special events. Notably, The Transatlantic Sessions Tour will come to MerleFest – and the U.S. – for the first time ever, bringing hosts Aly Bain and perennial MerleFest performer Jerry Douglas

and guests folk-rock legend James Taylor, Sarah Jarosz, Maura O'Connell, Declan O’Rourke, Karen Matheson and Joe Newberry among others. Additionally, The Reunion Jam at the Watson Stage on Saturday will feature threefourths of the legendary progressive bluegrass band Newgrass Revival, which includes 30-year MerleFest veteran Sam Bush. As well, the new MerleFest Museum will be open to offer festivalgoers the chance to appreciate these performances in MerleFest’s deep-rooted history. “We focused the MerleFest 2017 lineup on honoring artists who have performed with Doc Watson over the last 30 years of the festival,” said Steve Johnson, artist relations manager for MerleFest. “This was also a way to showcase the bands our fans have continuously requested over the years. The 30th celebration goes back to the 1988 Flatbed Trailer Jam at MerleFest. We

‘reunited’ as many of the musicians as we could get from that first jam, like Sam, Jerry and Béla, and added Mark Schatz and Bryan Sutton. We are indeed very excited to have a few new things to bring to the stages like The Transatlantic Sessions Tour with Jerry Douglas and Aly Bain featuring James Taylor and other guests of that set. It’s sure to be a special celebration of 30th years of MerleFest and we hope something that would make Doc, RosaLee and Merle proud." The complete lineup and stage schedules are posted at merlefest.org/lineup and available on the MerleFest mobile app, which includes festival updates in real time. Updates are also delivered via Twitter (@MerleFest) and Facebook. Use hashtag #MerleFest to connect with other festivalgoers on social media, and be sure to take a picture with Flattop, MerleFest’s raccoon mascot, to share on social channels. Returning band members of Front Country are proud to be a part of MerleFest’s 30th celebration. “It's Front Country's second time at MerleFest, and we are honored to be playing the Watson Stage and to be busting out some special guests and surprises for our Saturday Night Dance Tent set,” said singer Melody Walker. “In the spirit of the ‘MerleFest Moment,’ we will be trying something crazy that we've never tried before at that set. After that, it's the Midnight Jam, where even more magic happens.

artisans, vendors, convenience foods, official MerleFest memorabilia and services such as first aid, lost 5 and found, and Internet access. The Dance Stage will feature various workshops and dance instruction with plenty of opportunities for festival attendees to cut loose with an array of music styles, and the Mayes Pit/Cohn Auditorium in Thompson Hall will be devoted to a variety of workshops and demonstrations. The Songwriters Showcase Coffeehouse at the Austin Stage in Alumni Hall offers a venue where songwriters can showcase their original songs. The Pickin’ Place provides musicians of all levels and genres to meet old friends and make new ones while singing and playing their favorite tunes together. MerleFest is meant to be a fun, educational experience for children, too. Children are taught about roots music through listening and are given opportunities to play music for themselves through experiences like the Instrument Petting Zoo. The festival also supports youth who already play music by providing them with performance opportunities in the Acoustic Kids Showcases hosted by musician Andy May and held on Friday and Saturday of MerleFest. During the festival, the Little Pickers Stage offers great performances geared towards entertaining kids and their families. The Little Pickers Family Area is enhanced with crafts, face-painting, games,

theloaferonline.com | April 25, 2017

It's going to be a blast!” Hosted this year by Mipso and sponsored by The Bluegrass Situation, the Midnight Jam gathers many performers from the festival’s lineup for impromptu artistic collaborations and one-of-a-kind superstar jams. A separate ticket is required and available for purchase by four-day, three-day and Saturday ticketholders. Mipso has invited Jim Lauderdale, Donna the Buffalo, Peter Rowan, Sierra Hull, Celia Woodsmith of Della Mae, and others to take part in the hootenanny. This year’s guest voice for The Hillside Album Hour, hosted by The Waybacks, will be Della Mae lead singer Celia Woodsmith. The Waybacks and MerleFest have been leaking hints as to which classic album will be reinterpreted for the HAH, but the album in question will remain a mystery up until the start of the set on the Hillside Stage on Saturday at 4:15 p.m. In addition to musical performances, MerleFest offers special activities and unique shopping options. The Shoppes at MerleFest is a centrally-located shopping village that features demonstrating

Continued on page 9

theloaferonline.com | April 25, 2017

Mother's Finest: Reaping The Rewards

THE LOAFER’S EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW – Part 2 With Jeffrey Alan Payne

Bud Light and Mellow Mushroom present Tri Cities Classic Rock 101.5 FM – WQUT’s “QStock Musical Festival” with The Loafer. The show features headliners “Mothers Finest”. The Loafer sat down for an exclusive interview with the venerable band’s founders: Glenn “Doc” Murdock and Joyce “Baby Jean” Kennedy. Here’s part two of that conversation, as they talk about their many successes

The Loafer: I want to ask you about some iconic bands you opened for. The Who was famous for hiring opening acts that were inappropriate for their audiences, and they would often get booed off the stage. You survived it. Joyce “Baby Jean” Kennedy: Yeah, we probably got lucky. We survived it, but we were great though. This is not a big-headed statement, but we were great at what we did. When we walked on the stage, everything belonged to us. We

didn’t care about the headliner. As far as we were concerned WE were the headliner. Greatness respects greatness. Those bands that knew exactly what they were, and that they were great at it, they opened the door for us to do our thing, because they wanted us to succeed. There was no competition there. The Loafer: How about Aerosmith? Kennedy: Aerosmith was lovely. Glenn “Doc” Murdock: We played with them, here in Atlanta. They were tolerant, because they wouldn’t be shown up. Kennedy: We also played in New York with them, and that was a completely different (than playing in hometown Atlanta). Murdock: We had the same management company as them, and we were on the same label. They really didn’t want to be bothered with us; everyone just did their own thing. There was a progression of us playing with them. Kennedy: It was a great combination; I’d have to say. The Loafer: You’ve also mentioned ACDC. Murdock: ACDC was almost counter-productive in that we could come and just take them

up to a certain level, and ACDC would just take them over the top. Kennedy: Yeah, the audience was TOTALLY exhausted. Again, they’re a great band, and they were not intimidated. We caught them on “Highway to Hell”, so they were just bustin’ out. We became great friends over the years. We played with Bad Company. The list is long. We’ve been around for a while. The Loafer: After 47 years, you guys are edging into Rolling Stoneslike musical veterans’ territory. Is it easier? Are you more confident? Let’s face it. We’re all getting older. Is it harder now to share that energy? Kennedy: We’re kind of controlling it. It’s not harder. It’s just different, because the industry has changed so much. This is work, and to be honest, in the early days, we were on our way somewhere. So, every gig was like the first gig. We worked hard. We rehearsed hard, and we wrote songs. Now, after 40-some years, we say, “S**t, man. Let’s try to stay tight and try to stay healthy, and try to keep a fresh perspective. We know how the industry works now. You know, education is powerful. If you know the game, it changes your perspective on it. The band’s still tight. The last CD we did was excellent. The people who have it, love it. We try to keep the show fresh. That’s why we stay together. We love what we’ve done together, the work we’ve created. We consider ourselves blessed. Nobody OD’d. We stay busy, and still have our audience. Booties are in the seats. We’re a rockin’ band. We play at nine-and-a-half all the time. The Loafer: Speaking of that, your new album and single “Shut Up” simply sizzles, such a great song. Do you find that you have to tour to make money now, because everyone’s downloading music from the internet? Murdock: What we try to do is….we ask people for money. Then, we give them stuff. They actually funded this last record. Then, we went to a record company over in Germany, and they gave us a little bit more money. But yeah, you do have to tour. It used to be that you didn’t put anything out on the internet, because you knew it was going to get stolen. The philosophy now is try to get the music to as many people as you can. Plus, get it to the people who are willing to pay for it, and do it all over again. Mothers Finest performs on Saturday, May 27th, at Kingsport Speedway, with special guests Ali Randolph and the Outta Luck Band, Rock and Roll Freak Show, and Asylum Suite. Tickets are $30, including service charge and tax.

“

Order yours online at www.wqut.com Cool, local paper to keep up with what's going on in the area." Cortney S.

theloaferonline.com | April 25, 2017

SHAKESPEARE’S MOST BELOVED COMEDY

A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM theloaferonline.com | April 25, 2017

Barter Theatre introduced “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” on Friday, April 21. The play represents the first time a Shakespeare work on Barter Theatre’s Gilliam Stage in more than 15 years. The production runs until May 13 on Gilliam Stage. It features Zacchaeus Kimbrell and Hannah Ingram (both pictured) among others from Barter Theatre’s resident acting company.

oin Barter actors for Director Katy Brown’s take on Shakespeare’s classic comedy about four young lovers who find themselves immersed in an enchanted forest ruled by fairies. As the lovers cross paths with the Fairy King and Queen, the mischievous Puck provides plenty of memorable experiences for all involved. Brown said she wanted to bring Shakespeare back to Barter Theatre and “bring it back in a big way,” and thought “A Midsummer Night’s Dream was the perfect choice. “It is easily the most fun, the most accessible and the most exciting of Shakespeare’s plays to be done, especially for a large audience,” she said. Brown related to the play by looking into its theme of love, which is often shown as comedic through Shakespeare’s use of the characters’ experiences with the emotion to lighten the mood. “We’ve all walked into those woods and gotten lost, been ridiculous and come back out, blinking in the light, changed forever by what we learned about ourselves at the hands of love,” Brown said. Corporate sponsor Universal Fiber Systems makes “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” possible at Barter Theatre. Be sure to get your tickets to upcoming Barter Theatre productions, with tickets for every show starting at $20, and don’t forget about Barter’s three for $99 offer running until April 28. Get tickets to three Barter Theatre productions for just $99. The three for $99 subscription comes with subscriber benefits including 15 percent off additional tickets for friends and family. This promotion is not available online. Call the Barter Theatre Box Office at 276-628-3991 for more information.

MerleFest 2017 is presented by Window World. MerleFest is grateful to 90+ sponsors and advertisers for their support in making the event possible, including Belk, Pepsi, Charlotte and Greensboro area Burger King restaurants, G&B Energy, Tyson, InterFlex Group, Hardee's, WinstonSalem Journal, WXII 12, the Law Offices of Timothy D. Welborn, Bojangles', Carolina Ford Dealers, Carolina West Wireless, Lowes Foods, Wilkes Communications, Wilkes Regional Medical Center, Wells Fargo and Mast General Store. A complete listing of all MerleFest sponsors and additional information about all aspects of the festival can be found at www.MerleFest.org. Tickets for MerleFest 2017 are on sale now and may be purchased at MerleFest.org or by calling 1-800-343-7857. An advance ticket discount runs through April 26, 2017. Gate pricing begins on the first day of the festival. MerleFest (www.facebook.com/MerleFest) @MerleFest (https://twitter.com/MerleFest)

@MerleFest (www.instagram.com/MerleFest) #MerleFest #CASC #MidnightJam

Heart disease and stroke cause 1 in 3 deaths 9 among women each year – more than all cancers combined. But we can change that because 80 percent of all cardiac events may be prevented with education and lifestyle changes.

o Red For W o m e n encourages women and their families to take action and live a healthier life. Let’s get started. Let’s unite. Together we are stronger and unstoppable. Join us at GoRedForWomen.org and at this year’s Go Red For Women Event at The MeadowView Conference Resort & Convention Center, 1901 Meadowview Parkway, Kingsport, Tennessee 37660, Friday April 28th. For ticket information visit GoRedForWomen.org

theloaferonline.com | April 25, 2017

storytelling, a large grassy play area, and the opportunity to take pictures with MerleFest’s official mascot, Flattop the raccoon. Because of MerleFest’s emphasis on families, many children have grown up among the MerleFest stages, become performers themselves, and later, brought their own kids back to participate in this legendary weekend of music. Beginners and yogis alike are welcome to start their day with a little Downward Facing Dog; a yoga class will be offered on Friday at 9:30 a.m. on the Dance Stage. The Nature Walks of the gardens and forest on the WCC campus are offered on Friday, Saturday and Sunday of the festival. “For those wanting an affordable weekend getaway, MerleFest provides a true value to its customers,” said festival director Ted Hagaman. “The admission prices are extremely reasonable – especially considering that we feature over 100 acts on 13 stages. Also, there are no hidden charges. We provide free parking, a free shuttle that will deliver you to the entrance, a free program guide, and all children 12 and under are admitted free with a paid adult. In addition, our Little Pickers Family Area offers each child the opportunity to make crafts and participate in several interactive exhibits – all free of charge.”

Go RED For Women

MerleFest continued from page 5

theloaferonline.com | April 25, 2017

Art, Wine & Cheese Stroll

Rogersville Arts Council presents the “Art, Wine, and Cheese Stroll” on Friday, May 5, 5:00-8:00pm in Historic Downtown Rogersville. The “Stroll” takes you along East Main Street, visiting downtown merchants and their unique shops that offer home goods, gifts, primitives, local artisans work and eclectic finds.

ou’ll begin your stroll at the Historic Hale Springs Inn, where you will enjoy carefully selected pairings of wine and cheese, fantastic live music, and the work of talented local artists. From here, you are free to stroll on Main Street at your leisure, shopping with the participating merchants, snacking on delectable cheeses, and meeting more of our local artists who will have their works on display and for sale. There will be strolling entertainers on Main Street filling the air with music. The ticket price is $25, including the wine, and $15 for those who

prefer non-alcoholic beverages. This event kicks off the 3rd annual “Appalachian Spring Festival" on Saturday, May 6 from 10:00am-4:00pm along Main Street, in Historic Downtown Rogersville. Bring the family as we celebrate music, a puppet theater, Maypole and other folk dances, local authors, artisans, food, and creative activity! From last year’s response, we are bringing back the acoustic music, interactive dance, and adding a Maypole event to the mix. Folks of all ages continue to come for the Chalk Art Contest; and last year the Rogersville Arts Puppet Show debut was a big

hit. We are adding vendors and workshops this year, as well as having downtown restaurants open. Fee based activities include two workshops on traditional arts @$30 (“Weaving Sticks- an ancient, simple handweaving tool used to create a bracelet of your own design) all materials included, offered for 8 years old – up; kid’s trash art which will be judged and displayed @$3. The 4th Annual Chalk Art Contest @$6 is being held on the sidewalks of Depot and Main Streets. Come create a beautiful picture by yourself or with a team! There will be chalk supplies for purchase; and prizes

to win in different age categories. For further information about activities and events produced by the Arts Council, check Facebook, www.rogartscouncil. org, or call 423-293-0882.

theloaferonline.com | April 25, 2017

Benefiting Two Charities

Bringing Music & Comedy Together

Do you enjoy live music and/or standup comedy? If so, you’ll 11 want to be at the Acoustic Coffeehouse and its sister venue, the Next Door, at 415 W. Walnut St., in Johnson City, TN, on Thursday, April 27th. So, you can go to one or the other, or walk back and forth between the events, and enjoy the entertainment while contributing to the betterment of our community.

n the Coffeehouse, Kryss Dula & Friends will play at 8pm and Amythyst Kiah & Her Chest of Glass will play at 10pm. The show at the Coffeehouse will be FREE though the musicians ask that everyone who is able, to please bring as much non-perishable food as they can spare, to put in the barrel at the door for Second Harvest Food Bank of Northeast TN. Second Harvest Food Bank of Northeast TN provided 8.75 million meals to those in need in our area, in fiscal year 2015-16. Our Second Harvest affiliate is the only standalone food bank in the local 8 county region and they have served our region for over 25 years. Simultaneously, beginning at 9pm, Comedians Tom Scheve, Jessica Lane, and Sam Rucker, will perform at the Next Door. By show time, it is possible other comedians will be added to the bill. The comedy show cover will be $5, with all proceeds going to the Bread Homeless Service, a youth ministry charity project led by Andrew Harrison Cox. It is important to note this is an uncensored show, and not appropriate for children. Bread Homeless Service aims to help the homeless in the Tri-Cities area. Samuel Rucker hosts, books, organizes, and advertises a series of monthly open mic standup comedy shows, which he started two years ago. This monthly series is the only open mic comedy show in Johnson City, and anyone who wishes to try their hand at standup is welcome to sign up at those events. This Thursday’s event is what he calls the annual Super Show. Both Kryss Dula & Friends and Amythyst Kiah & Her Chest of Glass are long supporters of local charity causes. Dula organizes two music concerts a year at The Acoustic Coffeehouse, which benefit Second Harvest. He notes that various bands rotate through the headline slot, where he and his Friends serve as the opening act. Dula says “Our group consists of any of about 25 local musicians who may or may not be available for any specific event.” He estimates that over 50 musicians have played with the Friends on at least one occasion, and that, “a good time is guaranteed.” You can find more information about Kryss Dula & Friends at www.reverbnation. com/kryssdula and www.facebook.com/kryssdula Dula said he’s particularly enthusiastic that Amythyst Kiah is in the headlining slot this Thursday. Amythyst and Her Chest of Glass (featuring members of ‘this mountain,’ another amazing local original band) play original Americana music, as well as select covers from iconic artists such as Dolly Parton. To give the reader an idea of the powerful and stunning talent that Amythyst possess, this is her last local show before joining Rhiannon Giddens (internationally famous as a founding member of the Carolina Chocolate Drops, who is now in the midst of a stellar solo career) on a national tour. Further, Amythyst has played tours in the UK twice in the last couple of years, to tremendous acclaim, and will perform at the Cambridge Folk Festival again this summer. And, she was also featured on an episode from Season 2 of the PBS TV series "David Holt's State of Music." You can find more information about Amythyst Kiah with and without Her Chest of Glass at www.reverbnation.com/amythystkiah and www.facebook. com/amythystkiah For more information about this event, go to www.acousticcoffeehouse.net or call (423) 434-9872

theloaferonline.com | April 25, 2017

hitetop Mountain Band is a family-based band from the highest mountains of Virginia. Whitetop is an area rich in old time music tradition, and this band has deep roots in mountain music. The band’s members have worked tirelessly to preserve the region’s style of old time fiddling and banjo picking and are legendary musicians and teachers of the style. Their shows are high energy and unlike any other show you have ever seen. There’s everything from fiddle and banjo instrumentals to powerful solos and harmony vocals on blues, classic country, honky tonk, traditional bluegrass numbers, old timey ballads, originals, four-part mountain gospel songs – and some flat foot dancing. Well-known for their charisma on stage and their ability to engage audiences of all ages, this group has been performing at the Carter Fold since shows first began at the A.P. Carter Grocery in the 1970s. The Whitetop Mountain Band is one of the most popular dance bands of the Appalachian Mountains. They have a great following at square dances all over Virginia, North Carolina, Tennessee, and Kentucky at venues like the Carter Fold. The fast-paced mountain music of the Whitetop Mountain Band of Grayson County is definitely a family affair. Be sure to check out

the Spencers and their family band at the Fold. Lots of people play old time music, but no one plays it with as much fierce intensity – or absolute fun – as the Whitetop Mountain Band! For additional information on the group, go to whitetopmountainband.com. For further information on the center, go to www.carterfamilyfold. org. For recorded information on shows coming up at the Fold, call 276-386-6054.

theloaferonline.com | March 28, 2017

WhitetopMountainBand

Saturday,April29that7:30p.m.,theCarterFamilyFoldinHiltons, 13 Virginia,willpresentaconcertofoldtimemusicbytheWhitetop MountainBand.Admissiontotheconcertis$10foradults,$2for children6to11,underage6free.

Spotlight

theloaferonline.com | April 25, 2017

- TUESDAY - April 25th -

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

- FRIDAY - April 28th -

- SATURDAY - April 29th -

Open Mic Wolf Hills Brewing

Rusty Steel w/ Quarter Bounce Rush Street

Shiloh Hill Bone Fire Smokehouse

Downtown Country Jiggy Ray’s Pizzeria

Kids Our Age Jonesborough Visitors Center

Rebel Mountain Country Club Bar & Grill

Open Mic Acoustic Coffeehouse

Elijiah Feelgood Holston River Brewing Company

MerleFest 2017 Wilkesboro NC

Circus Mutts Bone Fire Smokehouse

The Diamonds at Rock’s Wood Fired Pizza & Grill

Ronnie Milsap Paramount Center for the Arts

Wyldeheart Quaker Steak & Lube

Acoustifried Country Club Bar & Grill

Whitetop Mountain Band Carter Family Fold

MerleFest 2017 Wilkesboro NC

Coal Creek w/ Big Don CJ’s Sports Bar

Love Unit & Aelude Capone’s

Jason Whitaker Acoustic Our House Restaurant

Jake Quillin & Logan Fritz Studio Brew

Dale Ann Bradley Capitol Theatre

Olivia Baker Acoustic Coffeehouse

JV Squad O’Mainnin’s Pub

Under The Table Band Marker ‘2’ Grille

Brie Capone Acoustic Coffeehouse

- WEDNESDAY - April 26th Open Mic Jiggy Ray’s Pizzeria Open Mic The Willow Tree Coffeehouse & Music Room Open Mic Acoustic Coffeehouse

- THURSDAY - April 27th Jam w/ Danny Farmer Wellington’s Restaurant Nostalgia Duo Rock’s Wood Fired Pizza & Grill Redleg Husky Studio Brew The Diamonds Blackbird Bakery Oscar Harris & Todd Meade Model City Tap House 9th Street Stompers Bone Fire Smokehouse MerleFest 2017 Wilkesboro NC Jeff Anders & Friends Wild Wing Cafe Amythyst Kiah and Next Door Comedy Night Acoustic Coffeehouse

- FRIDAY - April 28th Preacher Stone Wild Wing Cafe Hillbilly Soul 50Fifty Sports Tavern Underhill Rose The Willow Tree Coffeehouse & Music Room Logan Fritz, Jake Quillen Band Studio Brew Adam Graybeal & Hillbilly Soul Sonny’s Cafe Mark Larkins Our House Restaurant

- SATURDAY - April 29th Asylum Suite Wild Wing Cafe The Diamond Dogs - David Bowie Tribute Capone’s Kerosene Krush Rush Street Bombadil & Hunter Grigg The Willow Tree Coffeehouse & Music Room

Jigsaw Jane Bristol Station Brews & Taproom Nerve Endings / TreePhort / The Reppertons The Hideaway Retroville Marker ‘2’ Grille Stemwinder Farmhouse Gallery & Gardens

- SUNDAY - April 30th -

Slick Willie Johnson City Moose Lodge

Devour the Day The Hideaway

Southern Rebellion Sonny’s Cafe

Live Music Bone Fire Smokehouse

Tamara Hansson Damascus Brewery

MerleFest 2017 Wilkesboro

Shades of Refinement JJ’s Sports Bar

Open Mic Acoustic Coffeehouse

Under The Table Band Erwin Moose Lodge

Ivy Road Marker ‘2’ Grille

Nightshift Band David Thompson’s Produce Ali Randolph & The Outta Luck Band Holston River Brewing Company

for show time & more details, visit

theloaferonline.com

Open Mic Acoustic Coffeehouse Open Mic at Rock’s Wood Fired Pizza & Grill

15 - TUESDAY - May 2nd -

Railroad Express at Holston River Brewing Co.

for show time & more details, visit

KARAOKE

SPOTLIGHT DIRECTORY

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

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

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

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

Country Club of Bristol 6045 Old Jonesboro Rd. Bristol 423-652-1700

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

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

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

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

Holston River Brewing Company 2621 Volunteer Pkwy Bristol TN

TUESDAY Karaoke w/ Tina and West at Dawg House Tavern Karaoke at Numan’s - Johnson City TN *********************** WEDNESDAY Karaoke w/ Toddzilla at Sportsmans Pub Karaoke w/ Southern Sounds Karaoke at American Legion 8pm Karaoke w/ DJ Marquez & Top Shelf Entertainment at Holston River Brewing Company Karaoke w/ DJ Brad & Top Shelf Entertainment at Quaker Steak & Lube Karaoke w/ Absolute Entertainment at Smokey Bones - Johnson City TN Turn the Page Karaoke at VFW Post 2108 - Johnson City TN *********************** THURSDAY Karaoke w/ Absolute Entertainment at Macado’s - Kingsport Karaoke at CJ’s Sports Bar Karaoke at Numan’s - Johnson City TN Karaoke w/ Absolute Entertainment at New Beginning’s Karaoke at Jiggy Rays Pizzaria ***********************

FRIDAY Karaoke w/ Southern Sounds Karaoke at Sportsman’s Bar & Grill 9pm Karaoke at Kingsport Moose Lodge Karaoke w/ Reverb Karaoke at The Cottage 8:30 pm Turn the Page Karaoke at VFW Post 2108 - Johnson City TN Karaoke w/ Toddzilla at Sportsmans Pub Karaoke at CJ’s Sports Bar Karaoke w/ DJ Brad & Top Shelf Entertainment at BoBo’s - Damascus VA Karaoke at Elizabethton VFW - Elizabethton TN Karaoke w/ DJ Marquez & Top Shelf Entertainment at Holiday Inn (Exit 7) - Bristol VA Karaoke w/ Absolute Entertainment at Moe’s Original BBQ Karaoke at Numan’s - Johnson City TN *********************** SATURDAY Karaoke at The Horseshoe Lounge Karaoke w/ Toddzilla at Sportsmans Pub Karaoke at Kingsport Moose Lodge Turn the Page Karaoke at VFW Post 2108 - Johnson City TN Karaoke w/ Absolute Entertainment at Macado’s - Kingsport Karaoke at Numan’s - Johnson City TN

theloaferonline.com | April 25, 2017

- MONDAY - May 1st -

theloaferonline.com | April 25, 2017

CELEBRATE ASTRONOMY DAY 2017 IN THE TRI-CITIES

Have you ever seen Jupiter and its moons? Or a distant galaxy far, far away? How about safely seeing the Sun in a telescope? Maybe you have a question about planets orbiting other stars. Or have an interest in space exploration of our Solar System. And if you’ve caught the astronomy bug, how about handling and looking through different telescopes— kicking the tires so-to-speak—to help you determine what kind you might want to purchase?

Stargazer

By Mark Marquette since 1996 stargazermarq@ gmail.com

ell, ask an amateur astronomer this Saturday. And remember, there are no silly questions in astronomy! There are about a half-million amateur astronomers who want to share those celestial thrills with you and your friends this weekend as it is Astronomy Day around America. Saturday April 29th you can see these heavenly objects and more, thanks to the volunteer amateur astronomers at Bays Mountain and Bristol astronomy clubs. Both groups of star-struck stargazers will have events all day to share the mysteries and beauty of our Universe. If weather cooperates, you can look through a telescope and safely see the Sun during the day. Then at night, you can explore the crescent Moon, see cloud bands on Jupiter and the faint fuzzy glow of billions of stars in a distant galaxy. Astronomy Day is a perfect time to learn a little about the spacey things that are all around us and connect with our ancestors who like you, might casually look up and wonder what you’re gazing upon. After all, the stars and their arbitrary patterns we see in tonight’s skies are the exact same ones that all humans have looked up and seen. That’s right. Though moving at thousands of miles an hour in different directions, the stars are so far away that they have not changed their positions in hundreds of thousands of years. So tonight when you are looking at the asterism of Ursa Major, the Big Dipper, or the constellation Leo the Lion, they are exactly the same stars that were seen by painter Vincent Van Gogh, physicist Isaac Newton or a caveman. Uniquely, no one owns the original when you look up to the sky. Jupiter is yours to ponder, photograph or sketch in its original form, and is easy to see in our eastern skies of Spring 2017. It’s not like you have to fly to the Louvre Museum in Paris to see the original Mona Lisa painting. That is just one of the many fascinating things about astronomy that makes Joe and Jane America look up at the sky. When there is a bright “star” lingering on the horizon—like the planet Venus is doing in our Spring 2017 morning skies—or you think you saw the International Space Station fly overhead—who ya gonna call? Why your friend, the amateur astronomer. Most everyone knows someone who has a passion for stargazing. And they are the ones whom you turn to for an explanation about the sometimes puzzling objects seen in the day and night sky. I know that I am asked almost monthly by someone who wants me to shed some light on the spacey things seen at night or in the news. Sometimes I’m even asked on Facebook “What is this all about, Mark?” Which is another paradox about being an amateur astronomer—how can someone know so much about a subject and still be called an amateur? Well, there are no degrees for stargazing, and those few professional astronomers (less than 10,000 world-wide) are too busy working with files of data acquired from the major telescope observatories on top of mountains around the world.

In fact, amateur astronomers are relied upon by professionals to help with some of the mundane research they don’t have time to perform. Thus amateurs with special telescope and digital imagery are looking for comets, exploding stars in distant galaxies and asteroids near Earth that might hit us someday. Most of the amateur astronomers you’ll encounter during Astronomy Day are just willing to turn you on to the amazing Universe we all live in. Seeing an adult’s face react with child-like amazement at their first look at the Moon or Saturn’s rings never gets old for amateur astronomers. Nor do the questions about the North Star, Black Holes or even if there are UFOs. When a youngster gets their first look at the Orion Nebula or Andromeda Galaxy and ends up becoming obsessed to the point of a science project on astronomy, well, that is truly priceless. Amateur astronomy might be part of the human psyche from ancient times as nearly everyone has a curiosity to look up and wonder what exactly the stars are made of, how far away they are and if other beings are looking back at us. Our favorite star, the Sun, is just an average one among the billions in our favorite galaxy, the Milky Way. Just one hundred years ago it was professional astronomer Edwin Hubble who discovered that our Milky Way is not the entire Universe and that other galaxies lay beyond ours. Thanks to his namesake, the Hubble Space Telescope, we have discovered a Universe filled with billions of galaxies, each with hundreds of billions of stars. It is amazing to think about. Yet, the humble amateur astronomer can help you sort it all out. Amateur astronomy is a great hobby with a membership that includes people passionate about many things in nature, including our ecosystem, weather and the animal kingdom. There are many facets to amateur astronomy and not everyone owns a telescope to enjoy the passion. Binoculars are the best way to start out, but some just enjoy using their naked eyes to trace the ancient constellations of mythology. Many are armchair astronomers who enjoy the many books and Internet websites that share the newest knowledge and conjecture about the cosmos including the Big Bang of creation, theories of multiple dimensions and hypothesis about the exoplanets being discovered around nearby stars. Maybe you’re an artist and enjoy putting on canvas artwork of our Solar System bodies, the Universe or humans conquering Mars. And some, like me, enjoy writing about our starry skies and all it contains—a true gift and passion of mine for more than 50 years. Amateur astronomy literally has something for everybody with an inquiring mind. You can participate at the local astronomy clubs and stargazing events frequently scheduled by stargazers. Go out and visit a science museum this weekend and you’ll satisfy that inquisitive spirit. You won’t be disappointed.

Wednesday, April 26 New Moon is today. That means our nearest neighbor is between Earth and Sun, so looking up in the daytime sky, the Moon is below our star, unseen, yet there. On Aug. 21st, the Moon will pass directly in front of the Sun for the Great American Eclipse.

Thursday, April 27 Say goodbye to the great hunter, Orion as he’ll be below the horizon by 10 pm. Right behind will be the brightest star in the sky, Sirius, skirting the southwest horizon.

Friday, April 28 That bright star Arcturus that the Big Dipper’s handle arcs to anchors the bottom point of the star pattern Bootes that looks like a kite, or an ice cream cone—or a diamond! An ancient constellation named after a man who built and drove chariots a few thousand years ago, not much else is known about him. But

he must have been a pioneer of wheeled vehicles to have such a prominent constellation named after him! Saturday, April 29 Astronomy Day around the world. Planetariums and science centers around the world will be offering special programs to share the mystery and imagination of the Universe. Bays Mt. Park in Kingsport and Steele Creek Park in Bristol will have amateur astronomers on site to share their passion and nighttime viewing of the Moon, planet Jupiter and more. Sunday, April 30 The Big Dipper is just a part of the much larger constellation Ursa Major, the Big Bear. But these seven stars, that are called The Plough in Europe, are among the most recognized asterism in the night sky. Of course, “the pointer stars” of the outside bowl, Merak and Dubhe, guide us to the North Star, Polaris, in the Little Dipper, again, just a part of the Little Bear. Monday, May 1 The night above is open to the rest of the Universe like a window from our spaceship Earth. There are thousands of other galaxies to see beyond our own in Virgo, Leo, Ursa Major and other Spring constellations. On May evenings, the Milky Way is circling around the horizon, but next month (or after midnight) it will begin showing its glory above the eastern horizon.

17 theloaferonline.com | April 25, 2017

Tuesday, April 25 Happy 27th birthday Hubble Space Telescope! It was on this date in 1990 when Space Shuttle Discovery deployed the telescope with a 96-inch mirror into an orbit 450 miles above the Earth. Five service missions by Shuttles have lengthened the life of the amazing Hubble. It will probably last five more years before being plunged in the atmosphere to destruction in a fiery reentry.

SKIES

THIS WEEK

Celestial events in the skies for the week of April 25 - May 1, 2017 as compiled for The Loafer by Mark D. Marquette.

From Hell It Ended

theloaferonline.com | April 25, 2017

Warner Archive rolled out a double hit of unexpected joy when they announced they were putting two B-wonders by studio Allied Artists out on blu-ray. 1956’s “World Without End”--which features a supporting role by an early in his career Rod Taylor. Plus, the true wonder of this wondrous duo, 1957’s “From Hell It Came” a movie about a man who comes back from the dead as a tree and kills people--I kid you not.

Batteries Not Included

By Andy Ross aross@ theloaferonline.com

orld Without End” is a 1956 science-fiction thriller that claimed to be “the first science-fiction adventure filmed in Cinemascope” but that wasn’t entirely true. It was neck to neck with MGM’s “Forbidden Planet” which beat “World Without End” to theaters by about two weeks. “World Without End” follows a group of astronauts who have just completed the first mission to Mars. But a time warp in space on their way back home sets them off course by a few centuries in the future to an Earth that has been devastated by nuclear war, with most of humanity now living underground. It’s a fun slice of 1950s B-Picture Sci-fi, complete with a giant spider attack featuring a spider that would be reused in another Allied Artist film “Queen of Outer Space,” which like “World Without End” was directed by Edward Bernds. For non-genre fans one of the most appealing things of “World Without End”--which has a breezy 80 minute running time--is catching future star Rod Taylor using his native Australian accent. “World Without End” is also something of the “lost” Mystery Science Theater 3000 film, chosen not for an episode of the TV series, but done in a one performance only 1992 live show that took place in Minneapolis.

Continued on page 23

Photo by Jay Huron

ow in its 16th year, Storytelling Live! brings a new “teller in residence” to the town of Jonesborough each week for a week’s worth of performances. The program runs through the end of October, and includes special guests in November and December. Storyteller Bil Lepp will usher in the first week of the series, followed by 25 more master storytellers who will take turns hosting weeklong residencies at ISC’s downtown center. The season’s highlights will include cowboy poet Joe Herrington and other newcomers Donna Washington, Sam Payne, and Ingrid Nixon; world-class musicians like David Holt and Michael Reno Harrell; international voice Liz Weir; and fan favorites like Donald Davis, Ed Stivender, and Kim Weitkamp. Woven throughout the season, many storytellers will also offer exclusive children’s programming, evening concerts and workshops. The latter will focus on topics as diverse as faith-based storytelling, eldercare, and boosting literacy. Tickets for these events are all sold separately. All Storytelling Live! performances are in ISC’s intimate theater in Mary B. Martin Storytelling Hall. Tickets for all matinee performances are just $12 for adults and $11 for seniors, students, and children under 18, and ticket holders will receive discounts at many downtown establishments on the day of the performance. Season passes that offer nearly half off the price of regular admission are available (only as supplies last). Information about all performers, as well as a detailed schedule for 2017, is available at www.storytellingcenter.net. The premier sponsor of Storytelling Live! is the Heart & Soul program of Mountain States. Additional program funding comes from the National Endowment for the Arts, the Tennessee Arts Commission, the East Tennessee Foundation, Eastman Credit Union, the Niswonger Foundation, Citi and Food City. The International Storytelling Center is open 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., Monday through Saturday. For more information about Storytelling Live! or to make a group reservation, call 800-952-8392 ext. 222 or 423-913-1276.

19 theloaferonline.com | April 25, 2017

@ The International Storytelling Center

Opening Day for Storytelling Season

Storytelling season in Jonesborough is about to begin. On May 2, the International Storytelling Center (ISC) will launch the 2017 season of its popular Storytelling Live! series, a six-month showcase of the country’s top storytellers.

theloaferonline.com | April 25, 2017

The Fate of the Furious (Rated PG-13) 3 Cars (out of 4)

Pop Life

By Ken Silvers ksilvers@ theloaferonline.com

Let's be honest, the "Fast and Furious" films are high budget B-movies that make tons of money basically following the same, but slightly altered story line. There is absolutely nothing wrong with the aforementioned facts, as if you are a fan of these movies, those are the very reasons you enjoy the film series. It's hard to believe this film series began back in 2001, and continues on despite the tragic death of star Paul Walker.

he previous film, "Furious 7" , dealt with Walker's death in a very classy, but tear jerking way. Vin Diesel returns as Dominic "Dom" Toretto, along with his co-stars in "The Fate of The Furious". The story begin with Dom and Letty Ortiz (MIchelle Rodriguez) celebrating their honeymoon in Havana, but their lives soon turn sour with Dom crosses paths with the villain of the film, Cipher (Charlize Theron), a cyberterrorist, who "convinces" Dom to join her on a mission. Prior to his meeting with Cipher, Dom and his co-horts: Roman (Tyrese Gibson); Tej (Ludacris); and Ramsey (Nathalie Emmanuel), have been recruited by Diplomatic Security Service agent Luke Hobbs (Dwayne Johnson), to retrieve a EMP (electromagnetic pulse) device from a military outpost in Berlin, Germany. During the exciting mission, Dom goes rouge and joins Cipher. After enduring a brief visit to the pokey, Luke gathers the team in an effort to stop Cipher, of whom they discover is after various items including a nuclear submarine located in Russia. Luke and the team are joined by Deckard (Jason Statham), an enemy of the group forced to join them by government agent Mr. Nobody (Kurt Russell), thus providing plenty of opportunities for Luke and Deckard to exchange witty and threatening dialogue. Meanwhile, back in the new world of Dom, (spoiler alert!!), he discovers he is a father, thanks to a revelation by Cipher. Thus, Cipher has ammunition to use against her reluctant partner. All of the

characters have a final showdown in Russia where the nuclear sub is located, and the action is relentlessness. In addition to the appearance of Stateman, Luke Evans makes a brief, but memorable, return as Deckard's brother Owen. New cast member Scott Eastwood, appearing as Little Nobody, a underling to Mr. Nobody, is quite effect as an agent-in-training who tries a bit too hard, resulting in many hilarious moments. There is also a surprise cameo by a famous British actress of whom I will not mention here less to spoil the surprise. Let's just say said actress has visited the Oscar podium. All the actors fall into their familiar roles with ease, and the patter and chemistry between Johnson and Stateman was bursting off the screen. Villain Cipher, as portrayed by Theron, keeps herself in check, as the character could have easily gone over-the-top. She is like a viper coiled and ready to strike. Meanwhile, Diesel and his other co-stars are all given their chance to shine, and are given some time to emote between all the massive action sequences. Speaking of action sequences, the climatic segment featuring the submarine against the various vehicles, on ice no less, is extremely impressive. The plot to these movies is basically just needed to fill in time between the bombastic action sequences with the cars and other assorted modes of transportation. If you are looking for a fast paced action film to ward off the stresses of everyday life, "The Fate of the Furious" is your ticket to ride.

theloaferonline.com | April 25, 2017

Big Brother's Big Sister's

Celebrate National Volunteer Month

April is National Volunteer Month and 21 what a better way to get involved than to make a difference in the life of a local child. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Tri-Cities (BBBSGTC) is looking for community volunteers to spend 2 to 4 hours a month with an at-risk youth to help them improve in school, their behavior and their self-esteem.

hanging a child’s life, what a great way to volunteer,” said Kathy Lowdermilk, Regional Director of BBBSGTC. “If you have a few hours a month and want to make a difference, we want to talk with you about our program.” Our local Big Brothers Big Sisters office, which serves the Greater Bristol, Kingsport, and Johnson City area, is part of one of the oldest and largest youth mentoring organizations in the United States. It’s a system that has been proven to work and transforms the lives of children who might not otherwise ever get the support they need to grow and successfully meet life’s challenges. “We currently have almost 100 children in the process of getting a big brother or sister,” says Lowdermilk, “and we need volunteers for these great kids.” Child-volunteer matches are made based on in-depth and comprehensive interviewing with parents, children and potential volunteers. Stringent safeguards are in place to assure that all parties are safe. Volunteer and parent engagement and training also play a big role. For more information on how to volunteer with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Tri-Cities, contact the office by calling 423-247-3240, or visiting TennesseeBig.org.

Stones River

National Battlefield Nashville is known the world over as the capital of country music; famous for its full-scale replica of the Parthenon, the Grand Ole Opry, Vanderbilt University, and the Tennessee Titans. Over the last decade, the Music City metro area has grown to become one of the largest in the Southeast, now home to more than 1.8 million people. While millions of visitors flock to the Country Music Hall of Fame or the lights and sounds of Broadway, many forget the rich history the area saw long before country music made its debut.

Appalachian Wanderers

By Jason & Daniel Worley jdworley@ theloaferonline.com

Walking around the grounds, visitors will find themselves face to face with cannons giving an unnerving reminder of what events took place here.

theloaferonline.com | April 25, 2017

uring the Civil War, Tennessee was a crucial territory for both sides to have, with residents divided in their support of the Confederacy as well as the state being home to important transportation corridors. As a result, only Virginia saw more battles fought on its soil. Sites such as Shiloh, Fort Donelson, and Lookout Mountain have been preserved to honor the memory of those who fell to keep our country together. Others such as Campbell’s Station, Blountsville, and Bull’s Gap have faded from memory, preserved only in writing or identified by a roadside marker along a winding country road. Stones River National Battlefield is one those sacred sites which was protected. Located just south of Nashville on the outskirts of Murfreesboro, the peaceful fields and woods which make up the national park were once the scene of one of the bloodiest conflicts of the war. As you approach the park from either Nashville or Murfreesboro, its easy to see why the battleground needed protection as a unit of the National Park System. Subdivisions, highways, and urban sprawl have closed in on all sides and continue to spread thanks to the area's rapid growth. Thanks to its establishment in 1927, the tranquil meadows now serve as a habitat for wildlife in addition to protecting the battlefield site and relics. Entering the park from its main entrance on North Thompson Lane, visitors are directed onto the park's main loop road. This one-way scenic drive winds through the forests and fields towards the visitor center. This should be every new visitor's first stop, as it's hard to truly appreciate what the park has to offer without know the history behind those cold winter days in 1862. The museum is extremely detailed and will probably take the more

thorough over an hour to walk through and examine all the historical artifacts preserved here. An educational ten-minute video provides a simplified version of the museum's content for those with less time. Be sure to also stop by the information desk to chat with the rangers. They're more than willing to answer any questions you may still have that weren't answered in the museum and can also help you best plan how to spend your time at the park. Rangers Jeremy Childs and John McKay

were very professional and helped answer several questions we had on our recent visit. Be sure to ask them for a Jr. Ranger book so you can earn your Jr. Ranger badge by the end of your visit. We have found that completing the activities at each park we visit helps to enrich our experience and help us learn even more about the amazing wonders of our national parks. Outside the museum, there are so many areas to explore that visitors need to plan a whole day or even a weekend in order to see everything. Pick up a pamphlet for the auto tour and set off once again on the main park loop. Numbered stops indicate sites of importance throughout the battle, such as the Slaughter Pen. Here a paved trail as

well as smaller footpaths wander through an intricate maze of rocks which served as a hiding spot for Union soldiers during the heat of the battle. Unfortunately, they also served to hinder their escape when the Confederates charged, thus giving rise to its morbid name. Other stops include the Hazen Brigade Monument as well as the Artillery Monument on the McFadden Farm portion of the battlefield. If you are tired of riding in the car, over seven miles of hiking and biking trails crisscross almost the entirety of the park’s five hundred and thirty acres. The Murfreesboro greenway system links with these to provide additional opportunities for exploration. In addition, the open fields provide great areas to search for wildflowers or stop for a picnic. The park is also home to Stones River National Cemetery, which makes for a somber area to walk and contemplate the lives which were given to secure the Union victory here. Perhaps the best time to visit the park is during one of the battle reenactments. Several are offered throughout the year, with the largest of these occurring at the end of each December to commemorate the anniversary of the battle. During this time, the park offers a plethora of walks and tours to complement the already extensive list of activities already provided. Throughout the rest of the year, other interpretive programs such as rangerled bicycle rides are offered on a regular basis. Perhaps some of the most interesting are the ranger-led lantern walks through the national cemetery, where the stories of those who lie here come to life through the letters they wrote during their time before and throughout the battle.

The Casual Word

Festival Send it to

Got an event coming up?

Concert The Loafer! Event

Exhibit

info@theloaferonline.com

By Langley Shazor Follow Langley at TheCasualWord

Mama was a bit too soft

Tumble across open plains

Daddy was a bit too hard

From open doors and windows

Behind perfectly folded

The sounds of life

Pressed

Behind acts and scenes

Crisp

Portrayed in neatly stacked reams

Façades of brand new paper

Bound with frayed twine

Lay hundreds of crumpled pages

All those smashed pieces lie

Ripped corners

Crumbled

Bleeding lines

Tossed over shoulders

Strewn across floors

Failed attempts

Tucked behind corners

A plagiarized life

Scattered amidst tattered clothes

Shielding a wire waste basket

Miniscule shreds

Full of reality

Batteries continued from page 18 Warner Archive presents “World Without End” on blu-ray in a really impressive 1080p transfer created from a brand new interpositive struck from the original negative. Despite being a B film, “World Without End” has a marvelous color pallet that shines in HD. The Monaural soundtrack is clear and sharp, presented as a DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 track. It’s a fun film that would be idea for a backyard drive in movie night if you have an outdoor projector. Of the two films I’m talking about this week, this one is the one that really steals the cake. When Warner Archive announced they were putting “From Hell It Came” out on blu-ray, the internet reacted with a mix of things. Shock, wonder, delight, surprise, and even some confusion. “From Hell It Came” is distinguished in the annals of cinema as being one of the worst movies ever made. Though Warner Archive had issued “From Hell It Came” on DVD a few years back, the blu-ray release did cause some people to be a little upset that this “trash” was getting an HD release over, say, an MGM musical. I think it says a lot about Warner Archive that they will issue titles on blu-ray like “From Hell It Came” & “World Without End” right up there with pictures as “The Big Sleep” & “Yankee Doodle Dandy.” Anyway, on to what

“From Hell It Came” is all about. On a remote South Seas island, a prince is unjustly put to death for murder. The prince cries foul, swears vengeance, and comes back as a tree. I’m not kidding. A walking tree monster called Tabonga that the visiting American scientists are fascinated by. Being humans of science, they don’t believe the island “mumbo jumbo” about tree monsters until--DUN DUN DUN--the bodies start to pile up. “From Hell It Came” is terrible, but it’s such goofy, stupid, campy fun. Plus the monster suit is a cool design. Famously, The New York Times reviewed the movie with simply a one line review which was “And to hell it can go.” Fortunately, “From Hell It Came” zips along at 71 minutes, as if we really need to worry about there being a Tabonga Cinematic Universe. The black and white B picture to end all B pictures looks really nice on blu-ray, sharp and about as good as you’d ever hope. The mono DTS-HD track is clear and bright, brings out all the over the top score the music that makes a movie like this. Such a complete and unexpected delight from Warner Archive, this is one everyone should own, mostly just to say to people “Wanna see a killer tree movie!?” See you next week.

theloaferonline.com | April 25, 2017

Waste Basket

theloaferonline.com | April 25, 2017

Answers on page 26

Tigger is a 2 year old domestic short hair male. He is neutered and up to date on all vaccines. This cutie loves to cuddle!

Lily is a 1 year old domestic short hair. She is spayed and up to date on all vaccines. She is a sweet lap cat!

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

Home Shelter PO Box 654 Blountville, TN 37617 Every animal in their care is spayed or neutered and fully vaccinated before being adopted. Being a non profit the shelter is funded entirely by membership dues and private donations. They always need volunteers or monetary donations. Other always needed items:pet food, cat litter & cat toys dog treats & dog toys,paper towels, cleaners, office supplies,Purina weight circles. Phone: 423-239-5237 Hours are Mon-Fri 12pm-6pm Sat 12pm3pm and Sun 2pm-4pm. Website is www. bridgehomerescue@gmail.com or like them on Facebook: www.Facebook.com/ bridgehome

25 theloaferonline.com | April 25, 2017

PETS

OF THE WEEK

theloaferonline.com | April 25, 2017

THINGS TO DO Virginia Creeper Fest The first annual Virginia Creeper Fest will be held Saturday April 29, 2017 in Abingdon. The familyfriendly festival celebrates the 30th anniversary of the creation of the Virginia Creeper Trail, and highlights the multitude of outdoor recreation opportunities along the trail. The Virginia Creeper Trail marks its 30th Anniversary in 2017. One of the earliest rails-to-trails success stories, the Creeper Trail is now a major economic engine for Southwest Virginia, drawing over 200 thousand visitors annually. Running 33.4 miles from Abingdon, VA through Damascus and Jefferson National Forest, the Virginia Creeper Trail is a former railroad that's now one of the most popular recreation trails in the southeast. It combines striking Blue Ridge Mountain scenery with unique trestle bridges and an accessible ride. For more information: www. vacreeperfest.com or 276-6762282 ••••••••••••••••••••••••••

Spring Garden Fair The Exchange Place Spring Garden Fair Saturday, April 29 from 10am-5pm and Sunday, April 30 from noon-5pm. $3 admission for adults and children under 12 are free. Thousands of plants, tradtional music and food and children's activities are available. The 2016 Master Gardener class is sponsoring a "Back Porch Sale" at the event. Many gardening tools and supplies will be available for purchase. Proceeds go to the East Tennessee Master Gardeners association for educational funds. An "Ask a Master Gardener" area will be available. ••••••••••••••••••••••••••

4th Friday with Kids Our Age Kids Our Age will be playing our favorite fun dance music on the 4th Friday, April 28th, at the Jonesborough Visitors Center. This is one of the top bands in the area so if you have never visited this dance this is the one you won't want to miss! Line dance lessons offered at 6:30, with the dance from 7:0010:00. Cost $6.00. For additional information call 423-952-0772. If you would like to receive a monthly email listing of local dances simply send an email request to tricitiesdanceinfo@ gmail.com. ••••••••••••••••••••••••••

Wildlife Resources and Education Network Please join us at the Jonesborough Library on Thursday, May 4, 5:30 p.m. for a program presented by Wildlife Resources and Education Network. Robert Jones and Liz Crandall from WREN will talk about knowing your wild neighbors, what to do when you encounter a wild animal in need, and what it’s like to run a wildlife rehabilitation center. You can learn how to advocate for and support your native wildlife. WREN also has many opportunities to get involved with their cause, including transporting injured wild animals to wildlife rescues. Robert Jones and Liz Crandall met while working at Auburn University’s Southeastern Raptor Center. Besides sharing a mutual passion for caring for injured raptors, they recognized the issues all rehabbers face regarding limited support and a need for public education on coexisting with our natural world. With the desire to rectify

these issues, Robert and Liz created Wildlife Resources and Education Network (WREN). They are striving to bring about community awareness and sustainable support for wildlife rescues that care for our injured and orphaned native wildlife. This program is free and is open to the public. For more information, please call the Jonesborough Library at 423-7531800. •••••••••••••••••••••••••• JCPL Hosts Poetry Ready Event @ The Willow Tree Coffeehouse At 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, April 27 at the Willow Tree Coffeehouse and Music Room (216 East Main Street), Johnson City Public Library interim director Lisa Krekelberg will host an evening of poetry reading and sharing that is free and open to the general public. This reading event, in honor of National Poetry Month, will highlight books of poems from the JCPL’s collection. Attendees are encouraged to bring and share their own favorite poems or to find a new favorite among the books featured from the library’s collection or the Willow Tree’s bookstore. To learn more about this and other upcoming events, visit the library’s events calendar at www.

jcpl.net/events, like the library’s Facebook page, or follow the library on Twitter or Instagram. For more information call 423434-4454. •••••••••••••••••••••••••• Spring Book Sale & Gray Library Readers of all ages are invited to come to the Spring book sale at the Gray Library on May 5 and 6. Hours will be 9 to 5 on Friday and 9 to 2 on Saturday. A wide variety of adult and children's hardcover and paperback books, DVDs, magazines, audiobooks, CDs, puzzles, etc., will be for sale. The sale is sponsored by the Friends of the Washington County (TN) Library. FOL is a volunteer organization dedicated to supporting the activities of the library and providing funding for programs, services, and items outside the regular budget of the library. •••••••••••••••••••••••••• You And Your Health The Johnson City Public Library will host representatives from the Washington County Health Department each month from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. in the library’s first floor Reading Room. Each month will focus on a different health topic of wide interest. This is an opportunity to ask questions

in a relaxed setting and receive one-on-one advice. On May 2, 2017, educators will present information about “Nutrition.” On June 6, the topic will be “Dental Hygiene.” To learn more about these and other upcoming events, visit the library’s events calendar at www. jcpl.net/events, like the library’s Facebook page, or follow on Twitter @JCPublicLibrary. For more information call 423-4344454. •••••••••••••••••••••••••• Blood Drive Marsh Regional Blood Center will conduct public blood drives at the area locations. Visit http:// tinyurl.com/n4aujx9 to find a location near you. In addition to scheduled blood drives, donors are welcome at Marsh Regional’s collection centers: 111 W. Stone Drive, Suite 300, Kingsport, 2428 Knob Creek Road, Johnson City and 1996 W. State St., Bristol. For more information about scheduling a blood drive at a local business, church, school or community organization, please call 423-408-7500, 423-652-0014 or 276-679-4669 or visit www. marshblood.com.

Cryptogram: Being a Jew is like walking in the wind or swimming: you are touched at all points and conscious everywhere. DropQuote: "Take time to gather up the past so that you will be able to draw from your experience and invest them in the future."

HAS YOUR SELF BEEN QUANTIFIED?

The famous (and infamous) seventeenth century philosopher Rene Descartes is best known for his observation, “I think, therefore I am.” In his day and age, Descartes was referring to the one thing that couldn’t be doubted--namely, the human mind’s ability to be self-reflective. Today, his dictum might more accurately be stated as “I am being tracked, therefore I am.”

Kelly’s Place

By Jim Kelly since 1989 jkelly@ theloaferonline.com

hile reading Christian Madsbjerg’s fascinating and thought-provoking new book, SENSEMAKING: THE POWER OF THE HUMANITIES IN THE AGE OF THE ALGORITHM, i came across a term I am surprised I haven’t seen before now: “the Quantified Self.” According to Madsbjerg, this is the condition “where adherents use devices to track and quantify aspects of their behavior,” and it “reflects a broad trend in American society toward quantification: in health care, in education, in government, in our personal lives.” Of course, this is a subset of the larger phenomenon known as “big data.” As our lives become more and more filled with devices that monitor our physical and mental states, we should take some time to examine what it means to be a “quantified self.” Of course, I am sure there is a device or an app for that. So why bother doing it yourself? In fact, why even bother thinking about it at all? According to an oft-quoted Wired magazine article by Chris Anderson (“The End of Theory,” discussed by Madsbjerg), “There is a world where massive amounts of data and applied mathematics replace every other tool that might be brought to bear.” So, we should discard “every theory of human behavior, from linguistics to sociology. Forget taxonomy, ontology, and psychology.” We shouldn’t trouble ourselves with the theoretical bases of these pursuits and simply ask, “Who knows why people do what they do?” In the end, “they do it, and we can track and measure it with unprecedented fidelity.” When all is said and done, when we amass enough data, “the numbers speak for themselves.” Big Data promises to eliminate the messiness of asking “Why?” by replacing this unproductive question with answers based on pure numbers. Eric Schmidt, the former CEO of Google, once stated that “Most people don’t want Google to answer their questions.” Instead, “they want Google to tell them what they should be doing next.” I suppose this is the rationale behind the ever-growing family of voice-assisted devices that are at our beck and call to retrieve information about everything from the weather to the latest hit song by Ed Sheeran. The upside of all this is the creation of a world where information is immediately available. The downside is

the creation of a world where we our digital assistants provide only the information we want to hear. This explains what author Eli Pariser describes as the “filter bubble”--an elaborate system that filters out unwanted information, leaving us with only the voices that agree with us. And this, of course, contributes to the state in which we currently find ourselves--the world of “post-truth” and “alternative facts.” But I digress. Back to the quantified self. Seems like the term dates back to 2007, when Wired writer Gary Wolf and his colleague Kevin Kelly (no relation, I think) decided to host a “Quantified Self” meeting, “open to absolutely anyone who thought they were quantifying themselves.” This meeting is described in Kelly’s recent book THE INEVITABLE: UNDERSTANDING THE 12 TECHNOLOGICAL FORCES THAT WILL SHAPE OUR FUTURE. What Wolf and Kelly discovered during the course of this meeting was a group of devices that measured the participants’ “diet, fitness, sleep patterns, moods, blood factors, genes, location, and so on in quantifiable units.” With several hundred such groups in existence today and around 50,000 members, Kelly remarks, with considerable wonder, that “someone at a Quantified Self meetings has demo’d an ingenious new way to track an aspect of their life that seemed unlikely or impossible a moment before [and] what seems extreme today will soon become the new normal.” Of course, there are some things that might be downright terrifying if they become the “new normal.” Our old friend WIKIPEDIA tells us that the QS movement is also known as “lifelogging” and “is a movement to incorporate technology into data acquisition on aspects of a person’s daily life in terms of inputs (food consumed, quality of surrounding air), states (mood, arousal, blood oxygen levels), and performance, whether mental or physical. In short, quantified self is self-knowledge through self-tracking with technology.” In the expected TED talk, “The Quantified Self,” Gary Wolf speaks enthusiastically about the revolution taking place that goes far beyond us “stepping on a scale every day” into a world defined by “ubiquitous computing,” where we are all guinea pigs in a laboratory of self-absorption and obsession. He places digital devices into two broad categories--those that act

as windows (allowing us to turn our gaze outward to the wider world beyond our own bodies) and mirrors (allowing us to indulge in all sorts of narcissistic fantasies). Even a partial inventory of mirror-like devices is mindboggling--Apple watches, Garmin trackers, Fitbits, Jawbones, Nike FuelBAnds, Razor Nabus, Samsung Gear Fits, Technogyms, Weight Watchers ActiveLink, Zephyr BioHarnesses, Simbands, Misfit Wearables, SleepBots, WakeMates, MyFitnessPals, QardioArm blood pressure montors, Sleepios, and uBiomes, which are described as “personal microbiomes” (whatever that might be, as if I would want to know). Something I wrote about several columns ago is the Narcissistic Personality Index that should a useful reference tool to help us better understand the bewildering world of the QS. And I’m sure there’s an App for that. Since my daughter is preparing for her first baby in three months, I suppose our family should think about becoming a member of the “Quantified Baby” movement, a subset of the QS movement that is focused on “collecting extensive data on a baby’s daily activities, and using this data to make inferences about behavior and health.” My granddaughter will be entering a world where the quantified self is as natural as breastfeeding, and this of course presents both comforting and rather scary prospects. Contemplate, if you will (and there probably is an App for that too) this statement from WIKIPEDIA: “For quantified self, knowledge is power, and knowledge about oneself easily translates as a tool for self-improvement.” And self-improvement is what it’s all about, isn’t it? After all, we are never good enough, and can always benefit from more tracking. Stop thinking and stare at the numbers. After all, Descartes seems so seventeenth century, doesn’t he? And what does all this mean for the future of “Kelly’s Place”? Could it be that in the not-toodistant future, I will be able to receive a read-out of how many words all my readers are reading each week? Needless to say, I won’t be able to know what my reading are thinking, but who needs that when I can have a word count? Anyone in the market for KellyTrac? See you next week with another unquantified column.

theloaferonline.com | April 25, 2017