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on the cover World
Volume 31 • Issue #39
Editor Graphic Arts Director Don Sprinkle Cover Design Bill May Advertising Patti Barr Paul Kavanaugh Janie Jarvis
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
20 Stargazer Marq's Eclipse Flub 21 Skies This Week 22 Batteries Not Included The Man With Two Heavens 25 Pop Life Annabella: Creation 26 Appalachian Wanderers The Biltmore House: Part 3 31 The Casual Word Marketing 32 Puzzle Page 35 Kelly’s Place Thinking (Or Not) about Pet Rocks and Panpsychism
your week’s line-up
ART DROP Day
Publisher Luci Tate
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World Art Drop Day Beauty and the Beast kicks off JRT's New Season Papa Joe Smiddy Mountain Music Festival Strolling On Main Jonesborough Welcomes Donna Washington Comedian Donnie Baker @ HRBC Holston Riverfest coming together Pine Mountain Railsplitters @ Carter Family Fold 8th Annual Doggie Swim Annette Conlon, The Compassionette Tour Mike Farris @ BCM Musuem Spotlight Alfredo's Grand Re-Opening App(ugh)lachian Race Series Pets Of The Week Things To Do
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Tuesday, September 5th
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he artsiest scavenger hunt hits Tri Cities Tennessee. Have you ever wanted to discover a piece of art work in the wild? Well now’s your chance. Tuesday, September 5th is World Art Drop Day. Starting at 6am of Tuesday morning, artists throughout the area will begin to hide mini artworks in trees, bushes and other nooks and crannies around town for World Art Drop Day, an arty take on the scavenger hunt. Although Tri Cities is definitely celebrating the day, it can’t take credit for the concept itself. It’s the brainchild of Utah’s Jake Parker, who wants everyone in the world to feel more connected to their hometowns and the artists who live there. Parker (follow him on Instagram) got back from a cross-country trip in 2014 during which he spread the word about Art Drop Day, and also left work all over the United States where lucky art enthusiasts can find it.. All artists, (that means students and professionals, painters and cartoonists, sculptors and illustrators, animators and fine artists, EVERYONE who creates), Wherever you find yourself that day, drop a piece of your art and tell someone where to find it. The world needs this right now. We need to feel a little more connection to each other and there’s nothing like the bond two random strangers can make through the act of creating and giving.
Here’s how it works: - Create some art and hide it somewhere. - Take a photo of either the art or the hiding spot or a combination of both. - Post the image, the city you dropped it in, and a hint on the facebook.com/tricitiesartdropday AND on other social media outlets. Be sure to include the hashtag #artdropdaytri #artdropday Download the instructions from facebook.com/tricitiesartdropday. Then move on, hoping someone finds it. OR hang around and meet your new friend.
All art seekers, check Facebook.com/tricitiesartdropday . There you will find pictures and clues as to where art work is hiding throughout town. Once you find your art, take a picture with it and repost. To stay up to date with all the art drops thought Tri Cities Art Drop Day Facebook Page. Please be aware of your surroundings and personal property when hunting or hiding art pieces. After dark, please search or hide with a friend.
Keep your eyes open for The Loafer's piece of art to be dropped!
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Disney's Beauty and the Beast Kicks Off JRT’s New Season.
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he Jonesborough Repertory Theatre is thrilled to open their 2017-18 season with the beloved and classic tale of Disney’s Beauty and the Beast. Shows run September 8 through October 1 at the theatre located at 125½ West Main Street in Jonesborough. The classic story tells of Belle, a young woman in a provincial town, and the Beast, who is actually a young prince trapped under the spell of an enchantress. If the Beast can learn to love and be loved, the curse will end and he will be transformed into his former self. But time is running out. If the Beast does not learn his lesson soon, he and his household (also under a curse) will be doomed for all eternity. Based on the Academy Award-winning animated feature, the stage version includes the familiar songs written by Alan Menken and the late Howard Ashman, along with new songs by Menken and
Tim Rice. Selections include popular favorites such as “Be Our Guest,” “Beauty and the Beast,” and “Belle.” Disney’s Beauty and the Beast is directed by Janette Gaines and Pam Johnson, music directed by Shelly Mangiacotti, and choreographed by Lindy Ley. Joining the outstanding cast are Brittany Kyte Whitson as Belle and Joe Gumina as the Beast. This production is sponsored by Monkees at the Peerless Center; Murphy, Inc.; Acorn Electrical Specialists, Inc.; and by Sonia King and Mary B. Martin. Shows are on Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m, and Saturdays and Sundays at 2:00 p.m. Tickets are $16 general admission, $14 for students and seniors. To purchase tickets, call the Historic Jonesborough Visitors Center at 423.753.1010 or go online to www.jonesboroughtheatre.com.
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Papa Joe Smiddy Mountain Music Festival
15th Annual
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On Sunday, September 3rd, the 15th Annual Papa Joe Smiddy Mountain Music Festival will honor the memory and legacy of Dr. Joseph “Papa Joe” Smiddy.
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he event is presented by the Cove Ridge Center Foundation and will be held at Natural Tunnel State Park in Duffield, VA. This annual gathering seeks to promote the musical heritage of the area’s Appalachian mountain culture and also honors the tireless work of “Papa Joe”, who promoted the music of our region for many decades. In addition to being an accomplished old-time banjo player, entertainer, and educator, Smiddy was Chancellor Emeritus at the University of Virginia’s College at Wise. This year’s performers will be Dr. Joe Smiddy & Reedy Creek, the ETSU Bluegrass Pride Band and Old-Time Pride Band, featured headliner Carson Peters & Iron Mountain, and others. A new addition to this year’s proceedings will be a special 3pm afternoon performance featuring Miss Ellie String Band which is named in honor of Sue Ella Boatwright-Wells who was instrumental in starting the School of Mountain Music at Mountain Empire Community College. After a supper break at 5pm, the evening’s music will begin at 6pm. Radio personality Tom Taylor will serve as the emcee. Dr. Joe Smiddy & Reedy Creek , have played together for more than four decades. Reflecting the broad musical tastes of Papa Joe, the band plays a variety of oldtime music and original songs. Papa Joe started “Pickin’ in the Park”, the summer Sunday afternoon get-togethers at Natural Tunnel designed to encourage children and families to play music.
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Cheese, Art & Wine in Downtown Jonesborough
Join us on Main Street in Jonesborough, Tennessee on Saturday, September 9 from 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm for Strolling on Main. Sample over twenty varieties of cheese and cheese-infused bites throughout Downtown and enjoy wine selections, offered at various locations for an additional fee.
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ocal artists will be displaying and selling their various works up and down Main Street. Strolling musicians will also entertain you along the route. The Plaza of the International Storytelling Center will offer a wine and beer garden where selections will be for sale by the glass. Dona Lewis, JAMSA representative boasts, "We are excited to host this event again where people can casually explore the shops and view artwork by talented regional artists while also sampling cheese and wine. Everyone that attended said it was one of their favorite events of the year." Admission is $15 for Cheese Tastings and $25 for Cheese and Wine Tastings. Ages 12 and under may enjoy cheese tastings for $10. A limited number of tickets are available; visit www.strollingonmain.com for more information and to purchase tickets. You can also call the Visitors Center at 423-753-1010 to purchase tickets. This event is sponsored by the Jonesborough Area Merchants and Services Association.
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Strolling On Main
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Donna Washington for Storytelling Residence and Workshop
Donna Washington, a storyteller who’s so vibrant on stage that a fan once described her as a “walking Disney film,” is set to appear in Jonesborough for a week’s worth of live storytelling concerts.
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er appearance is part of a world-class lineup curated by the International Storytelling Center (ISC) for the 2017 season of the organization’s beloved Storytelling Live! series. Performances will run Tuesday through Saturday, September 5 – September 9, with daily matinees beginning at 2 p.m. Washington has been in the game for 30 years— the full extent of her working life. “This is the only job I've ever had as a grownup person,” she says. “After watching Jay O'Callahan [who performed at her university when she was an undergraduate], I had a sense that storytelling was what I wanted to do forever. He was this tall gangly New England man who turned into a young woman from Nova Scotia. I thought, okay, that's magic. That's what I want to do.” Early in her career, she walked away from lucrative work in television to focus on her storytelling performances. After decades of working as a storyteller, she has never once Photo by had the occasion to regret that decision. Jonathan M Van Ark During her week in Jonesborough, Washington will perform a wide variety of folk tales from all over the world. Occasionally, a personal story sneaks into her repertoire—but she’s deeply into traditional tales, which she shares at every opportunity. All of Washington’s live performances will take place in the Mary B. Martin Storytelling Hall, located in the International Storytelling Center, on Main Street. Tickets are just $12 for adults and $11 for seniors, students, and children under 18 for all performances. Reservations are highly recommended. In addition to her regular matinee performances, on Saturday, September 9, at 9:30 a.m., Washington will host a special storytelling workshop, “Literacy and Storytelling,” which is geared towards elementary school teachers. Sponsored by the Niswonger Foundation and the East Tennessee Foundation, the workshop, which will include information about games, activities, and techniques that can boost literacy, is free of charge to teachers. The charge for others who would like to attend is $30. Ticketholders for all events can present their ticket stubs for a 10 percent discount on same-day dining at JJ’s Eatery and Ice Cream or Main Street Café, two popular eateries in Jonesborough. Information about performers, and detailed schedule, is available at www.storytellingcenter.net. 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) 9528392 ext. 222 or (423) 913-1276.
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Jonesborough Welcomes
Donnie Baker
Tri Cities Live presents
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ilarious comedy will be the order of the day Friday and Saturday at The Brewery as Donnie Baker comes to the Tri Cities for two shows. Anyone who has had the opportunity to hear him has come away with their sides hurting from laughing so much. Fair warning – as of press time the Saturday show was sold out; tickets still remain for Friday.
Two shows – Friday and Saturday at Holston River Brewing Company
Holston Riverfest plans coming together
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he first annual Holston Riverfest will be held at The Brewery and their grounds October 6 – 8. This festival will have many components highlighted by the music lineup. Shenandoah, Ashley McBride, Daryl Worley and LANCO are all scheduled to appear, and a local band will also be playing on Sunday. Saturday brings the bike, car and truck show – a nice opportunity to show off your vehicle. Many entrants have already registered. Flame throwing and Burnouts will be the highlight of this portion of the festival along with tractor and trailer pulls. The kids are included of course. Dunk tanks will be operating and the whole kids’ area offers something for everyone. Food will be plentiful as well, not only from The Brewery’s own excellent kitchen but from many vendors and food trucks. Tent camping will be available for $10 per night. If you bring a trailer or RV, go online to get the best package that includes tickets. The website is www. holstonriverfest.com or you can call 423-923-9090 for more information. Mark your calendars – this is going to be one fun weekend!
Pine Mountain Railsplitters Old Time Band
Saturday, September 2nd, 2017, at 7:30 p.m., the Carter Family Fold in Hiltons, Virginia, will present a concert by the Pine Mountain Railsplitters old time string band. Admission to the concert is $10 for adults, $2 for children 6 to 11, under age 6 free.
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he Pine Mountain Railsplitters is an old time string band from Kentucky playing hard driving fiddle tunes and featuring Adrian and Julie ShepherdPowell, Brett Ratliff, and Stephanie Jeter. Formed at an impromptu performance at the Portland Old Time Gathering in 2009, the Pine Mountain Railsplitters play at various festivals and venues across the southeast. The band and its’ members have won multiple ribbons at fiddlers conventions all over the southeast, taking first place in the old time band contest at the Morehead Old Time Festival in July 2014 and then second place in the band contest at the Johnson County Old Time Fiddlers Convention in Laurel Bloomery, Tennessee, in August 2014. Adrian Shepherd-Powell, a native of Crimora, Virginia, has won contests at fiddlers’ conventions all over the southeast. His fiddle style is straight forward with a hard drivin’ bow. Adrian has played with many old time bands including the Pea Ridge Ramblers, Matt Kinman’s Old Time Serenaders, and the Cabin Creek Boys. One of
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Holston River Brewing Company’s
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8th Annual Doggie Swim Wrap up the end to a wonderful summer season by bringing out your best fur-friend to take in a lap or two at the 8th Annual Doggie Swim. The event is being sponsored by the Bristol Tennessee Parks and Recreation Department and hosted at the Haynesfield Pool.
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his year’s Doggie Swim is set for Tuesday, September 5 through Friday, September 8 from 5PM until 7:30PM. The final swim of the summer is set for Saturday, September 9 from 12 Noon until 4PM at which time the pool will close for the season. Admission is $3 per dog, with a limit of two dogs per humanfriend. There is no human-friend admission fee. Get Bandit, Boo, or Giselle’s swim suits dusted off and spend an afternoon sunning beside the pool with your best friend. “There are a few rules. All dogs must be current on their vaccinations and must wear a rabies tag and owner identification tag. Dogs must remain on a leash when not in the pool,” said Mike Musick, Recreation Superintendent. “Training treats are allowed, however food and drinks are prohibited in the pool or pool area,” said Musick. Haynesfield Pool is located at 327 Sleepy Hollow Road, Bristol, Tennessee. For a complete list of Doggie Swim rules go to bristoltn.org/doggieswim.
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onlon performs locally at Acoustic Coffeehouse, 415 W. Walnut St.,Friday, September 1. Set Time: 8:00pm to 10:00pm. 21 and over; free show. Info: (423) 434-9872 or http:// acousticcoffeehouse.net/. Conlon will be performing songs from her critically-acclaimed debut solo album, Life, Death, and the Spaces Between, along with songs from her new album scheduled for release in 2018. “Part sweet, part dark, the songs show a view deep into Annette Conlon’s soul. Her songs about compassion, social consciousness, human interaction, and animals are intended to make people think and to make a social statement.” (Ed Simon, The Boise Beat) Says Conlon, “I am excited to share my love for animals and veganism, through music, with folks across the country and to show them how easy it is to live more compassionately, from what you eat, to what you wear, while helping folks make the connection that our animal friends are not food.” This musical activism helps raise awareness of animal cruelty and factory farming and her tour helps elevate this awareness with sponsors in fashion and food. Husband Doug Conlon will accompany Annette on the tour, playing mandolin, banjo, and guitar, while providing background harmonies. Annette will be playing her Bedell Blackbird Vegan Parlor guitar and her Seagull Artist Studio Concert Hall guitar. Both instruments are made from sustainably-sourced woods and found tone-woods, and the Bedell is 100% vegan, containing no animal products. (Annette is endorsed by both Bedell and Seagull). The influences of Johnny Cash, Emmylou Harris and Dolly Parton can be discerned in her Conlon's debut, and Country Music People ranked Life, Death, and the Spaces Between #3 on a ‘Best Albums of 2015’ list, praising Annette Conlon as “a major talent” who “created a moving, intimate, magical melodic country trip.” Currently working with three-time Grammy winner Alf Rodenas on her second album, Conlon promises a “sweeter, happier, Ameri-Folk/Rock” effort that “delves ever deeper into my human heart.”
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Annette Conlon The Compassionette Tour
L.A based singer/songwriter Annette Conlon is set to embark on her second Compassionette Tour of the South-East beginning September 1, 2017, spreading the word of her musical activism at many stops along the way.
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Mike Farris The Birthplace of Country Music is proud to present the return of Grammy Awardwinning artist and powerhouse vocalist Mike Farris to the Birthplace of Country Music Museum for an intimate Friends of 1927 Concert experience on September 7. "Mike Farris is an unforgettable performer," said Leah Ross, Executive Director of the Birthplace of Country Music. "This is the second Friends of 1927 Concert he will have done, and the last sold out. I urge everyone interested in attending to order their tickets. There's nothing like seeing him in an intimate setting." Among the greatest voices of our time, Mike Farris was the first artist to receive a Grammy Award for Best Roots Gospel Album for his release Shine for All the People in 2015. Mike's spirited, soul-gospel fusion and goosebumpinducing live performances are evocative, spiritual, and thoroughly entertaining. Among his accomplishments, Farris achieved an Americana Music Award for New/Emerging Artist in 2008, followed by a Dove Award in 2010. His live performances at Bonnarro, SXSW, Hardly Strictly Bluegrass Festival, and Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion drew rave reviews. Revered artists like Rodney Crowell, Buddy Miller, Patty Griffin, and Marty Stuart have been struck by his incomparable voice. He was also among those invited to honor Aretha Franklin at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame's 16th Annual American Music Masters Concert, a true testament to his immense gifts. Friends of 1927 Concerts are intimate performances where fans have the opportunity to interact with artists in a relaxed setting. Cocktails and hors d'oeuvres are included in the ticket price. Concert doors open for cocktail hour at 6:30 p.m. and the concert begins at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are on sale now to the public for $80 per person, Bristol, Virginia admission tax and fees included. To purchase tickets visit BirthplaceOfCountryMusic.org.
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Grammy Award-Winning Artist
Spotlight
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- TUESDAY - August 29th -
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 - September 1st -
- SATURDAY - September 2nd -
Downtown Country Jiggy Ray’s Pizzeria
Mahto / Sinners and Saints / Loose Leaves The Hideaway
Nightshift Band Moose Lodge
Urban Pioneers / Barns Courtney Holston River Brewing Company
Seasons Of Me Capone’s
Shooter Band Laurel Marina
Stemwinder Rock’s Wood Fired Pizza & Grill
Nightshift Band Lion’s Club
Faded Travelers The Pinnacle
Mal Cooper Acoustic Coffeehouse
From The Edge Bristol Station Brews & Taproom
Old Movie Night Bears Bar
Shooter Band Lakeview Marina Marker II
- WEDNESDAY - August 30th Open Jam Session Acoustic Coffeehouse Open Mic The Willow Tree Coffeehouse & Music Room Jeff Anders & Friends Wild Wing Cafe Bike Night Bears Bar
- THURSDAY - August 31st Greta Van Fleet w/ Goodbye June Capone’s Karaoke w/ Marques Painter Creek Marina Next Door Comedy Acoustic Coffeehouse Rusty Steele Woodstone Deli Nostalgia Duo Rock’s Wood Fired Pizza & Grill KT VanDyke Bone Fire Smokehouse Marcus Boyd Band Wild Wing Cafe Jam w/ Jason Keiser Wellington’s Restaurant
Stone Creek 4 Painter Creek Marina Annette Conlon Acoustic Coffeehouse Bluegrass Sweethearts Bone Fire Smokehouse Shake Yo MoneyMaker Sonny’s Cafe The Gentleman & Liars Wild Wing Cafe Holy Ghost Tent Revival Down Home Sam Burchfield The Willow Tree Coffeehouse & Music Room JV Squad Yee Haw Brewing Company Momma Molasses The Pinnacle JP Parsons Rush Street New Suede Sleepy Owl Brewery Donnie Baker Holston River Brewing Company Acoustifried Country Club Bar & Grill
- SATURDAY - September 2nd -
Open Talent Night Bears Bar
Loose Enz Elizabethton Moose Lodge
Nathan Stiteler Acoustic Coffeehouse
Ali Randolph & The Outta Luck Band Lakeview Marina Marker II
Rock & Roll Freakshow Los Amigo’s Jigsaw Jane Painter Creek Marina Blue Addiction Los Amigo’s 415 in Progress Woodstone Deli The Diamonds Rock’s Wood Fired Pizza & Grill David & Mason Vai Bone Fire Smokehouse Acoustifried Sonny’s Cafe Secret Bleeders The Hideaway Jake Quillin Band / Swin in the Wild / Us, If Capone’s Cambium Gypsy Circus Cider Company Donnie Baker Holston River Brewing Company Southern 76 Bristol Country Show Palace Wyldeheart Country Club Bar & Grill Jason Keiser Jazz Duo Acoustic Coffeehouse
- SUNDAY - September 3rd Live Music Bone Fire Smokehouse Ivy Road Lakeview Marina Marker II
for show time & more details, visit
theloaferonline.com
Country Club Bar & Grill 3080 W State St Bristol 423-844-0400
Model City Tap House 324 E Market St. Kingsport 423-765-0875
Bear's Bar 4460 Highway 421 Bristol TN 423-502-1975
Holiday Inn (Exit 7) 3005 Linden Dr. Bristol VA 276-466-4100
Quaker Steak & Lube 629 State St. Bristol VA 276-644-9464
Bone Fire Smokehouse at the Hardware 260 W Main St Abingdon VA 276-623-0037
Holston River Brewing Company 2623 Volunteer Pkwy Bristol TN
Rock’s Wood Fired Pizza & Grill 3119 Bristol Hwy. Johnson City 423-262-0444
CJ’S Sports Bar 516 Morelock St. Kingsport 423-390-1361
Lakeview Marina 474 Lakeside Dock Drive Kingsport
KARAOKE
TUESDAY Karaoke w/ Tina and West at Dawg House Tavern Karaoke w/ Absolute Entertainment at Logans Karaoke w/ Marques at Painter Creek Marina Karaoke with Top shelf Entertainment at Boomershine’s Karaoke at Numan’s - Johnson City TN *********************** WEDNESDAY Karaoke w/ Southern Sounds Karaoke at American Legion 8pm Karaoke at CJ’s Sports Bar 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 w/ Marques at Painter Creek Marina Karaoke at Numan’s - Johnson City TN Karaoke w/ Absolute Entertainment at New Beginning’s Karaoke at Jiggy Rays Pizzaria ***********************
Sonny’s Marina & Café 109 One Street Gray, TN 423-282-9440
FRIDAY Karaoke w/ Southern Sounds Karaoke at Sportsman’s Bar & Grill 9pm Karaoke w/ Absolute Entertainment at Los Amigos - Kingsport Karaoke w/ Shane Rouse at Bear’s Bar 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 Karaoke w/ DJ Marquez & Top Shelf Entertainment at Holiday Inn (Exit 7) - Bristol VA 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 ***********************
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SPOTLIGHT DIRECTORY
Acoustic Coffeehouse 415 W Walnut St. Johnson City 423-434-9872
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Marq's Eclipse Flub A Work Of Art
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Stargazer
By Mark Marquette since 1996 stargazermarq@ gmail.com
ot to say things didn’t work out well—the trip to Sweetwater, Tennessee from my new home in Merritt Island, Florida, was flawless. And the companionship of the love of my life, Anita Friend, was exceptional as always. It was my photography that I flubbed up, even after months of thought and even some trial runs of my equipment. During that two minutes and thirty-seven seconds of totality I quickly had one camera malfunction and another on the wrong settings— and it sent me scrambling. With globs of sweat dripping off my head, blinding my eyesight and the heat making me a little dizzy, I simply pulled away from the photo gear, stood by Anita, and recorded the total eclipse into my memory as I looked up and then around at the magnificent, Moon shadow landscape that I’ll be lucky to ever see again. Those memories of the dark eye staring down out of the white streamers surrounding it and the eerie orange light that permeated the horizon and put a waxy sheen over everything are etched in my brain. Driving after the eclipse in the mother of all traffic jams, I kept replaying that brief two and a half minutes of totality, mulling what went wrong with the camera and why I had the wrong exposure setting on another. I kept ruminating about the flubbed photos I didn’t take. I didn’t think I got any good photos of the totality phase, but I knew I worked hard to get some good partial eclipse images as the Moon gobbled up several groups of beautiful sunspots. I kept beating myself up. The moment of total eclipse went so fast. When my old Nikon D-100 camera body misfired, whatever it was, I had no time to figure it out. There went the 600 mm telephoto shots of the solar corona that everyone else has. I was warned to not be obsessed with photography, the old axiom from solar
I like to say, “You can make plans, but you can’t plan the outcome!” Yep. That exactly describes my personal adventure during the Great American Eclipse of 2017.
eclipse veterans being “Every eclipse lasts 8 seconds.” Still, I had etched in my mind that beautiful scene I’ve never experienced… the black iris of the Moon and cottony streamers of the Sun’s atmosphere; the planets Jupiter to the left and Venus to the right. As for my mental impression of the Great American Eclipse: surreal. About five minutes before totality the insects in a nearby cornfield began chirping, the cicadas, crickets and katydids beginning a cacophony that would only end after the total phase was over for another five minutes. And the temperature dropped from the blazing heat at least 10 degrees. The darkness wasn’t like night, in fact it was easy to see people and the landscape. For me, it was like being inside a circus tent with darkness overhead and the perimeter flaps open to the ground allowing an orange glow of light to enter. Staring down from the hot, summer afternoon sky was a black hole surrounded by a shimmering pearl mane. For once in my five-decade writing career, I’m nearly lost for the right words to convey the spectacle that is a total eclipse of the Sun. Incredible. Magnificent. Enchanting. Awesome. I wasn’t sure about my own photography of the event. But when I got to my vacation destination and downloaded four cameras worth of images from the solar eclipse day, I soon realized that though I didn’t get what I expected, what I did record is okay with me. In fact, the disaster with my main eclipse camera has turned out to be something unique. It’s an image that could be inspired by the abstract artists Dali, Klee or Warhol. In fact, it is my Picasso of the event, a sort of “Eqlipse.” After beating myself up for screwing up, I’m quite pleased with the unpredictable outcome. Calling it “Cats Eye Eqlipse,” what my Nikon CCD sensor recorded was at least six images that create a black pupil surrounded by circular ellipses. The fuzzy, white corona is surrounding the abstract solar totality, and on the right side is stringy, red light from an erupting prominence on the solar edge. Though not what I wanted, I’ll take it! The bizarre “Cat’s Eye Eqlipse” aside, I’m pleased with my images of the partial phases that highlight in close-ups the beautiful sunspots. You can see them on my Facebook at MarQ Camera Art Studio. The Sun, our favorite star, never disappoints. And when teamed up with the Moon…it’s beyond words. Let the thousands of images of the Great American Eclipse speak to you in a way only you understand. And be in awe of the simple power of nature in our celestial backyard.
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he gibbous Moon dominates our evening scenes, with Jupiter and Saturn needing attention before they are gone. There is still plenty of Summer left as it is three weeks until the Autumnal Equinox. The morning sky has brilliant Venus stealing looks two hours before sunrise. And in the evening, planets Jupiter and Saturn are begging for a telescope to look at them. Tuesday, August 29
photos were crude by today’s standards of the current Saturn images being made by NASA’s The evening sky in the west after sunset features giant planet Jupiter, Cassini spacecraft. But 38 years ago, the images of the grooves in the rings were astounding the brightest “star” in the sky. Any telescope will show the four largest and a scientific bonanza. Cassini ends an amazing, 10-year orbital mission on Sept. 15th when it will be purposely burned up in Saturn’s gaseous atmosphere. moons of more than 64 that orbit the fifth planet circling the Sun.
Wednesday, August 30
In 1983, Space Shuttle Challenger was launched as the third mission of this 100-ton Orbiter. The five astronauts included Guion A. Bluford, the first African-American (or non-white person) to be rocketed into Earth orbit. The mission was another shake-down mission of Shuttle systems, like the 40-foot remote arm. A year later this date in 1984, Discovery was launched on its maiden mission, making three reusable space ships in America’s fleet. The six astronauts deployed three commercial clients during a near-flawless, six-day mission.
Saturday, September 2
Directly south is the 13th constellation of the Zodiac, Ophiuchus. A huge star pattern with no bright stars, the man with the strange name of Ophiuchus dips his foot between Scorpius and Sagittarius. He is officially the serpent-bearer, but may have done more than just handle snakes to get immortality in the stars. Ophiuchus (pronounced oh-FEW-cuss) could also be the mythical Greek doctor Aesculapius of the ship Argo, unseen below the horizon.
Sunday, September 3
On this 1976 date in space history, Viking 2 landed on Mars, following its sister spaceship Viking 1 in July. The stationary landers were deployed from the Viking Orbiters, and were equipped with a small chemical laboratory to try and detect life. Gases from the Martian Thursday, August 31 The Summer Triangle is an asterism of three Saturn is directly south soil were attributed to a chemical reaction and not life, but 41 years later the data is still in the early evening, between Scorpius and Sagittarius in the feet of debated as to whether Viking 2 discovered signs of life. Ophiuchus the Serpent bearer. Any telescope will show you the rings around the tiny globe of the planet. Monday, September 4 Early morning risers (or insomniacs) can take a peak outside and see star patterns that will take over our evenings this Winter. At 5 am, Orion is well over the eastern horizon with Friday, September 1 On this 1979 date in space history, NASA’s Pioneer 11 gave mankind its Taurus above it and Gemini below. first close-up views of Saturn and its amazing ring system. The first
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THIS WEEK
SKIES
Celestial events in the skies for the week of Aug. 29-Sept. 4, 2017 as compiled for The Loafer by Mark D. Marquette. 21
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The Man With Two Heavens
A pair of Steve Martin favorites come to blu-ray for the first time thanks once again to those ever vigilant celluloid crate diggers at Warner Archive. From 1983 there's "The Man With Two Brains," Martin's third collaboration with director and co-writer Carl Reiner. Then we have 1990's "My Blue Heaven," written by the late Nora Ephron.
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Batteries Not Included
By Andy Ross aross@ theloaferonline.com
oth films make their blu-ray debut, looking significantly better than their previous DVD release, and in the case of "Man With Two Brains," it's the first time it's been on home video in its proper 1.85: 1 aspect ratio. “The Man With Two Brains” is the third of four films from early in Martin’s film career that saw him partnering with comedy legend Carl Reiner (Creator of “The Dick Van Dyke Show” among his many, many accomplishments). With Reiner directing and both of them collaborating on the screenplay--this time with George Gipe as well. This cycle began with Martin’s film breakout, 1979’s “The Jerk.” Martin stars alongside Kathleen Turner in this delightful farce where Martin plays a brain surgeon who has pioneered a new way of performing brain operations-the screw top, ziplock brain surgery. The good doctor misses his late wife badly, but during an operation, he falls in love in a new lady--who later turns out to only care for the doctor's wealth. It's not until a strange research trip offers the doctor a chance for happiness--in a way most bizarre! A cult favorite among fans of Martin’s work “Man With Two Brains” looks great on blu-ray. The delightfully silly film has bright colors and a sharp image, yards beyond the flat, older DVD transfer. Fans of the film will be most pleased with this, which was a most unexpected addition to Warner Archive’s impressive blu-ray catalog.
From 1990 comes “My Blue Heaven” written by the great Nora Ephron and directed by Herbert Ross (no relation). Martin stars alongside someone who I hope to all things good and decent will make a return to the screen one day, the great Rick Moranis. Joan Cusack, Carol Kane, and delightful character actor William Hickey also appear in the film. “Heaven” has Martin play a mob informant who has gone into the FBI’s Witness Protection program, relocated to suburbia from New York City, and has Moranis as his caseworker and keeper leading up to the trial where Martin is due to testify. Martin's smooth and suave mob guy brings out the lighter side of Moranis's uptight by the book agent character. This is a fun film that felt like a big cozy blanket watching. One of those really great light comedies that I have such fond memories of watching these two actors in growing up. This was the first time I had seen the film and it was quite a delightful way to spend an afternoon. Martin really has some wonderful body language as his former NYC resident trying to adjust to his new cul de sac lifestyle. “My Blue Heaven” looks...wait for it...heavenly on this new blu-ray from Warner Archive. The image is sharp and clear, colors are solid and in line for films shot during this era. Both of these films are most welcome to blu-ray and are another great effort in bringing catalog titles to HD for us crazy film fans. Most recommended. See you next week.
Alfredo's Grand Re-Opening The Remodeling is complete
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If you have driven up Commonwealth just past Euclid lately, you couldn’t help but notice the work going on at Alfredo’s, the Italian and Mediterranean restaurant. The ever-popular proprietor, known to one and all simply as Mo, closed for about 5 weeks and did a complete makeover, starting with a newly resurfaced parking lot – which desperately needed it. Also, outside you will surely notice his new outdoor patio area. He actually has windows in it so that if it’s too breezy, you can simply close them. Moving inside you will encounter all new seating and tables in the dining room that add a touch of elegance that seems totally
appropriate for the type of menu they offer. But the real meat (no pun intended!) of the remodel project is the kitchen. Mo stripped it down completely and installed all new equipment. Not only is this a boon to the kitchen staff but actually enables them to get the orders out a little quicker. As part of the Grand Re-Opening, Mo is now featuring a Special Lunch Menu available weekdays from 10:30 – 3:00. Another twist is his new Daily Dinner Special which changes every day and offers diners a chance to try many different offerings. Alfredo’s has been a great place to eat from the day it opened. Mo wants to emphasize that he still uses the finest ingredients and takes the same care in preparing each order individually. If you can’t dine in, you can call ahead for pickup or even get your order delivered. The best of all worlds! See you there.
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App(ugh)lachian Race Series
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egistration is now open for the first App(ugh)lachian Race Series event, Muster Grounds, on September 23-24. Described as a race that is a “representation of life”, with all its twists, turns and challenges; this race will appeal to those that strive to venture into the unknown.
The race includes a 4 mile Saturday bike race, a 10 mile Sunday trail run, a catered post-race meal with cash bar at the Harvest Table Restaurant in Meadowview VA, after party at Wolf Hills Brewing Company in Abingdon VA, event packet, race t-shirt and lots of surprises. Participants will be challenged to race against others and themselves, and will have to improvise, adapt, and overcome throughout the events! Awards will feature locally made goods and will be given for first place overall and for the top five overall finishers. All proceeds benefit Appalachian Sustainable Development. Entry fees are $69 for the full weekend of events, and space is limited, to register, go to: www.appughlachian.com. Active members of the local State of Franklin Track Club receive a registration discount when entering code SFTC. Schedule of events: Wolf Hills Brewing Company, Friday, September 22nd, 7pm: MANDATORY pre-race meeting and race packet pickup. Abingdon, Saturday, September 23rd, 10am: 4 mile road bike race. Lunch featuring locally sourced ingredients at Harvest Table Restaurant immediately afterwards and then after party at Wolf Hills Brewing Company. Abingdon, Sunday, September 24th, 9am: 10 mile trail run. Awards ceremony and after party immediately afterwards at Wolf Hills Brewing Company.
For more information go to www.appughlachian.com and visit the official Facebook page @ AppughlachianRaceSeries or www. facebook.com/AppughlachianRaceSeries/.
Annabella: Creation
This week I will be discussing a film that is a prequel to a prequel. Got that? The new film "Annabelle: Creation" is a prequel to the 2014 film "Annabelle", which was itself a prequel to the 2013 film "The Conjuring".
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Pop Life
By Ken Silvers ksilvers@ theloaferonline.com
o now that we have that out of the way, I actually entered the theater without having seen the original "Annabelle", so I was a bit concerned. Would I be confused? Would I be upset I had no idea what was happening? Or would I just go with the flow? I chose the latter and was pleasantly surprised. After all, we are just dealing with a movie about a haunted/possessed doll. Thankfully, as stated in the films title, the story is about how Annabelle was created, so even those clueless like myself would not be completely confused. The film begins in 1943 and reveals how doll-maker Samuel Mullins (Anthony LaPagila) and his wife Ester (Miranda Otto) are dealing with the loss of their seven-year-old daughter, who was killed in a tragic accident. After her death, Samuel and Ester often see an entity in their house they believe to be their daughter. Eventually, the entity convinces the couple to allow it to transfer its essence into a porcelain doll created by Samuel. Not a good idea, but in horror movies characters rarely make wise decisions. The couple soon realize the entity in the doll is a demon, so they quickly lock the doll away in a closet wallpapered with pages from the Bible. Flash forward to 1955, and the couple are welcoming Sister Charlotte (Stephanie Sigman) and six orphaned girls into their home after their orphanage closed. The displaced nun and her charges have no idea what is about to unfold at the isolated California home. When I say isolated, I mean isolated. This home is so far away from civilization that a trip to the supermarket would be a major journey. However, the setting is perfect for a horror film. Even as the girls are settling into their temporary home on the first night, strange occurrences begin almost immediately, which is good due to the films brisk 109 minute running time. One of the girls, Janice (Talitha Bateman), who is crippled from polio, is startled awake on the first night, and immediately heads to the door of the room she is never told to open, thanks to a crayon written note left by her bed. While exploring the room, she soon opens the door to the closet where Annabelle has been stored, and releases horror on the household. The entity is soon terrorizing all the residents of the home, but is really displaying special interest in Janice. I suppose if you "let the genie out of the bottle" you should expect as much.
The tormenting in the house continues until several characters eventually make their way safety, but not until a couple of the girls have a harrowing encounter with a scarecrow, one of the most frightening moments in the film. I must say all the actors in the film were very convincing in their roles, and the young actors playing the orphaned girls were most effective. I also enjoyed the fact the filmmakers didn't use any big name stars in the film, which helped the story seem more believable. During the film there were plenty of "jumping" moments, startling me to great effect. Director David F. Sandberg (who will direct the DC comics "Shazam" film), does a masterful job in creating just the right amount of suspense and terror, not an easy thing to do with today's jaded audiences. While "Annabelle: Creation" is not exactly my usual type of film, I really enjoyed the scares it produced. If you see this film, you may never look at dolls the same way again. (Rated R) 3 dolls (out of 4)
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(Rated R) 3 dolls (out of 4)
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The Biltmore House Part 3
Appalachian Wanderers
By Jason & Daniel Worley jdworley@ theloaferonline.com
Over the past two weeks, we have whisked our readers through a historical tour of Biltmore, the largest home in America. Within the stone walls, each sculpture, staircase, and piece of furniture has a plethora of stories to tell.
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e only scraped the surface of those throughout our excursion in an effort to spark your interest, so that you too will want to venture into the estate’s rooms and hallways to experience this fascinating piece of American history. While the house has the ability to capture visitors interest for hours on end, there are almost seven thousand more acres of Blue Ridge countryside on the estate that await your discovery. When Vanderbilt originally purchased the land, his vision included almost one-hundred thousand acres that stretched from the French Broad River well into the Great Balsam Mountains south of Asheville. In 1914, Edith Vanderbilt sold over eighty-thousand acres to the federal government in an effort to make the estate size more manageable. Those mountainous acres became a part of Pisgah National Forest, which was established as one of the first national forests in America. After finishing your visit on the grounds, consider hiking to the top of Mount Pisgah or driving the Blue Ridge Parkway to experience this former portion of the estate. Modern Biltmore Estate still covers a sizeable chunk of southern Asheville, starting at Biltmore Village and continuing south all the way across the French Broad River to the Blue Ridge Parkway. Winding country roads, bicycle trails, and walking paths crisscross the open meadows and thick forests. Lush gardens spill over walls and vineyards dot the hillsides. Waterfalls, rivers, and a fishing lake offer inviting spots to cool off during hot summer afternoons. Once you finish up your tour of the house, stop by the historic horse stables adjacent to the front plaza. Here you will find shops which offer a variety of unique gifts, from tasty dips and sauces in the Biltmore Carriage House to collectible ornaments at the Christmas shop. Before venturing to the gardens, grab a bite to eat at the Biltmore Courtyard Market or the Bake Shop, which offer snacks and lunch items. The Stable Café provides a full dining experience for those who wish to take things at a leisurely pace. The Biltmore Gardens and Conservatory stretch out to the left of house. It’s best to bring walking shoes if you intend to explore them in their entirety, as there are several miles worth of trails which wander through the lush landscape. The Italian Garden features all manner of water gardens filled with water lily, lotus, and beautiful koi fish. Beyond that lies the shrub garden, whose paths lead into the Walled Garden on their way to the conservatory. Here the scenery changes throughout the months, with spring featuring the tulips for which Biltmore is famous. Summer sees annuals and perennials growing in immense numbers. Surrounded by the delicate blooms of the Rose Garden sits the Biltmore Conservatory. By far our favorite area outside the main home, this brick and glass building is home to an astonishing variety of tropical plants, from cacti and palm trees to pitcher plants and orchids. The exotic colors, shapes, and smells engrossed us for well over an hour on our visit. If you want to take some of these plants home, stop by A Gardener’s Place, the gardening store located on the lower level of the Conservatory. Here you will also find the Conservatory
Café, an open air dining area with light snacks and wines. Beyond lies the paths through Biltmore Azalea Garden and on to the Bass Pond. After finishing up at the main house and grounds, drive on to Antler Hill Village, where shopping, dining, and more fun await. Start things off at the winery, where a behind-the-scenes tour offers a fascinating look at the process of making Biltmore’s exclusive line of wines. You can add several different wine-tasting tours, or opt for the candlelight tour which comes with wine and cheese tastings afterward. You can pick up a number of wines and other treats at the winery’s gift shop. The village offers an entire day’s worth of activities. Three different restaurants provide plenty of choices for dining, while a working farm and playground will provide the kids with many things to do. Stop by the Biltmore Legacy Museum to discover more about the Vanderbilt’s long history, listen to a classical performance on the lush lawn, or check out the Outdoor Adventure Center. Here you can sign up for all kinds of outdoor activities. Whether you enjoy horseback riding, cycling, or leisurely carriage rides, Biltmore will surely have something to fit your style. You can go rafting and paddle boarding down the French Broad, or fly fish along its peaceful banks. Hiking is an activity that is free with admission, so why not explore the twenty miles of trails which wind throughout the estate? More unconventional adventures wait for those who sign up for the off-road Land Rover tours; you can even have a sporting clay shooting class! If you decide to base an Asheville vacation around Biltmore, they offer three different lodging options. The recently-opened Village Hotel sits in Antler Hill Village and offers mid-priced lodging close to all the activity of the village. Luxury awaits visitors who choose to stay at The Inn or the Cottage, both of which specialize in four-star accommodations for those who want to stay in style. More options are located just outside the grounds in historic Biltmore Village. Economy options such Hampton Inn contrast with the five-star excellence of The Grand Bohemian to provide are plenty of choices for any visitors. Whether you decide to visit for several hours or several days, we are sure that you’ll enjoy visiting this incredible piece of history and walk away just as awe-inspired as we were.
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Festivals
Got an event coming up?
Events
Send it to The Loafer! info@theloaferonline.com
Concerts
Exhibits
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PAPA JOE continued from page 8 The ETSU Bluegrass and Old Time Pride Bands feature students enrolled in East Tennessee State University’s Bluegrass, Old Time and Country Music Studies program. Founded in 1982 it is the longest standing established program of its kind and aims to preserve the musical traditions rooted in Appalachian culture, while at the same time encouraging creativity among its students. Students from all over the world come to ETSU to study in the program and to immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage of our region. Carson Peters & Iron Mountain have entertained audiences performing old time, bluegrass, and gospel music. Carson started playing the fiddle at the ripe old age of 3 when his parents bought him a 1/8 size fiddle. At 13 years old, Carson is a seasoned performer playing numerous venues with his new band throughout the region. Carson has also had the honor of playing on national TV as a guest on NBC’s The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, Little Big Shots with Steve Harvey, as well as play with Jimmy Fortune on the floor of the Tennessee State Senate. On March 28, 2014, Carson’s dream of playing on the Grand Ole Opry stage was realized when he was invited by Ricky Skaggs to come perform with him and his band, Kentucky Thunder. In May of the same year, Carson was asked to make a reappearance at the Opry, but this time with his own band. Festival-goers are encouraged to bring a lawn chair or blanket. Food and drinks are welcome, but no alcohol is allowed on Natural Tunnel State Park property. All tickets are general admission and may be purchased for $10 in advance or $15 at the gate. Children 12 and under are free with a paying adult. To purchase tickets by phone,
call (276) 940-2674. Tickets are also available at Natural Tunnel State Park, the Kingsport Chamber of Commerce, and Addington Oil in Weber City. Proceeds from the festival go into the Cove Ridge Foundation’s Papa Joe Smiddy Scholarship Fund. The Papa Joe Smiddy Mountain Music Festival is an official event of Duffield Daze and is an affiliated site on the Crooked Road.
his most recent awards includes second place in the old time fiddle competition at the Johnson County Fiddlers Convention in 2014 and third place at the Upper East Tennessee Fiddlers Convention in 2017. Julie Shephard-Powell is an award-winning clawhammer banjo player and flatfoot dancer originally from North Carolina. Julie previously taught beginning and advanced old time banjo at Mountain Empire Community College in Big Stone Gap, Virginia. She has also played with the Letcher County band Rich and the Poor Folks. Julie currently competes in flatfoot dance competitions at fiddlers’ conventions all over the southeast and calls square dances anywhere from Knoxville to New York City. She has won numerous awards for her flatfoot dancing, including most recently a second place finish at the Fiddlers Convention in Galax, Virginia, in August of 2014 and first place in dance at the Johnson County Fiddlers Convention in 2016. Brett Ratliff is a native of Van Lear, Kentucky, and is a well-known banjo player and ballad singer. He’s played everywhere from Portland, Oregon, to New York City and England. Brett’s played with numerous bands including the Clack Mountain String Band, and Blind Tiger String Band, the Dirk Powell Band, Rich and the Poor Folks, and the Giant Rooster Side Show. His ballad singing won him second place in the folk song competition at the Surry County Old Time Fiddlers Convention in 2010 and 2013. Brett recently released a solo album entitled Gone Boy in 2017. He joins the band on vocals, guitar, banjo, and fiddle. Stephanie Jeter makes her home in Lexington, Kentucky, and is the newest addition to the band, joining them in 2014. Stephanie also plays with the Empty Bottle String Band and teaches old time music at the Kentucky Center for Traditional Music at Morehead State University. She brings her rocking bass, smooth vocals, and sweet harmonies to the band. She has taken home multiple ribbons in flatfoot dance, singing, old time band, and autoharp from the Morehead Old Time Festival, the Johnson County Old Time Fiddlers Convention, and the Upper East Tennessee Fiddlers Convention. Some of the Pine Mountain Railsplitters’ other accolades include first place in old time band at the Grayson County Fiddlers Convention in Elk Creek, Virginia, in 2012; first place in the Crooked Road Music Festival Band Contest in 2012; first place at the Morehead Old Time Music Festival in 2009, 2010, and 2011 – with second place in 2012 and third place in 2013; third place in the band contest at the Great Southern Old Time Fiddlers Convention in 2010 in Chattanooga, Tennessee; and placing in old time band at the Fiddlers Convention in Galax, Virginia, in 2014. For more information, check out the Pine Mountain Railsplitters on the internet and You Tube. Be prepared for foot stomping and hollering when you listen to the Railsplitters. You’ll find it hard to stay in your seat. At the Carter Family Fold, the only thing better than one fiddler is two fidldlers. Bring along all your family and friends – and be sure you bring your dancing shoes. All the members of the Railsplitters have played the Fold, with several of them playing multiple times. Stephanie has performed on our stage from the time she was a student at East Tennessee State University when Raymond McLain oversaw the program. They all know just how to please audiences at the Fold. For an unforgettable evening, come on out to the Carter Family Fold to experience some of the best old time music you’ll ever hear. Carter Family Memorial Music Center, Inc., is a nonprofit, rural arts organization that was established in 1979 to preserve traditional, acoustic, mountain music. Saturday concerts have been held since 1974. The center is family-friendly, and an alcohol and drug free facility. For more info, go to http://www.carterfamilyfold.org or http://www. carterfamilyfold.com/. Shows from the Carter Family Fold can be accessed at http:// www.carterfoldshow.com. Partial funding for programs at the center is provided by the Virginia Commission for the Arts, the National Endowment for the Arts, and the Virginia Tourism Corporation. For recorded show information on the upcoming Saturday show at the Fold, call 276-386-6054. The Fold is on Facebook – page Carter Fold – and Twitter – @carterfoldinfo. To speak to a volunteer Fold staff member, call 276-594-0676. If we don’t answer you right away, we’ll get back to you in 24 hours.
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RAILSPLITTERS continued from page 13
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Fools rush in
There is gold in those hills Copper tones Relieving pained backs A sigh of relief
The Casual Word
By Langley Shazor Follow Langley at TheCasualWord
Metallic ringing Against pans Handled Washed Withered In desperate need Desperate measures In these times Feast or famine It is not deep enough To sink or swim Merely Wash Dirt from fingernails Strained Passed down To serve whom Two masters is impossible
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Great for checking out local music." Robert S.
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Marketing
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Answers on page 34
Patches is a 7 month old male kitty. He is neutered and up to date on all vaccines. This cutie loves to play and is the perfect lap cat!
Lacey is a 4 month old female. She will be spayed soon and up to date on all vaccines. She is such a loving cat. There are so many kittens and adult cats available for adoption please consider a new furrbaby for your family!
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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
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PETS
OF THE WEEK
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THINGS TO DO 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. •••••••••••••••••••••••••• The Casual Word Adult Creative Writing Class Join us for a free, fun, engaging, and different look into writing. In this class, we will not focus on structure, form, or rules, but on the freedom of writing. It is the goal of this class to open the mind to its full creative potential by allowing participants to write what they want, how they want to write it. Sessions will be student lead; we will engage in topics and subjects that are of interest to the students. The atmosphere is casual and jovial. This class is designed for all those 18 and up who wish to try their hand at creative writing. Thursdays @ 6:00 p.m. Jones Creativity Center. Bristol Public Library. •••••••••••••••••••••••••• JC Community Drum Circle The Johnson City Community Drum Circle meets every Wednesday evening (April – October), 7pm - 8:30pm, inside the Farmers’ Market Pavilion next to Found-
ers Park. Everyone is welcome to attend and participate. Come drum, hoop/holler, dance, or just relax and take in the scene, no experience or “talent” necessary. There are shared instruments and of course you can bring your own drums or percussion. It's all improvised, so there are no mistakes. We just smile and keep playing. Bring your own seating! •••••••••••••••••••••••••• Stress Clinic Community Acupuncture Enjoy a de-stressing and pain relieving thirty minute seated acupuncture session in the Art Gallery of The Renaissance Center in Kingsport. Hosted by Acupuncture Associates, come and get your painless acupuncture and get your nervous system strengthened! $40 (plus get a $20 bonus voucher to apply toward your next visit). Join us EVERY THIRD THURSDAY 12-3pm. For infomations, call 423-239-7044. •••••••••••••••••••••••••• Off The Couch Tri-Cities Ladies Only Social Activities Group For bi, lesbian or straight ladies. The goal of this group is to get you off the couch and out of the house so you can have fun going to various activities, meet new people and make friends. Activities include live music, open mic night, drum circle, storytelling, social/ coffee hour, comedy, bingo, billiards, sporting events, theatre and karaoke. Locations for activities can take place in different areas throughout the tri cities. Johnson City- The Willow Tree Coffeehouse, The Down Home, Founders Park, JC Community Theatre, Acoustic Coffeehouse, Yee-Haw Brewing Company, 50fifty Sports Tavern Bristol- Border Bash, Quaker Steak and Lube, Studio Brew,
Bristol Station Brews & Taproom Kingsport- , Rush Street Neighborhood Grill, Gypsy Circus Cider Company, Sleepy Owl Brewery Possible singers/groups: Wise Old River, Yarn, Amythyst Kiah, Annabelle's Curse, If Birds Could Fly, Beth Snapp, The Black Lillies, The SteelDrivers, Megan Jean and the Klay Family Band, Bill and the Belles, Sang Sarah, Indighost, The Steel Wheels, The Dustbowl Revival, The Get Right Band, The Ragbirds, Underhill Rose, Dangermuffin, Folk Soul Revival, The Jake Quillen Band, The Whiskey Gentry, and The Way Down Wanderers. To join visit: http://tinyurl.com/ y8utzb4r. Any problems with signing up on Meetup send an email to offthecouchladiessocialgroup@gmail.com. •••••••••••••••••••••••••• Volunteer Needed The Johnson City Board of Commissioners will consider one appointment to the Health and Education Facilities Board. This board meets on an as-needed basis and aids medical and educational facilities in obtaining tax-free loans as allowed by a combination federal and state statutes. Each term is three years.
Applicants should be interested in community affairs and must be city residents. Applications are available at the Municipal and Safety Building, 601 E. Main St., and can be faxed or mailed by calling 423-434-6009. To complete an application online, please visit www.johnsoncitytn. org/boards. Applications will be accepted through Sept. 22. For additional information regarding the Health and Education Facilities Board, please contact Sheri Keenan at 423-434-6009 •••••••••••••••••••••••••• ETSU at Kingsport to hold Fall Yard Sale East Tennessee State University at Kingsport Allandale will hold its Fall Yard Sale on Friday, Sept. 1, from 8 a.m.-noon in the parking lot at 1501 University Blvd. near Allandale Mansion. The ETSU at Kingsport Student Service Organization sponsors this event and invites members of the community to participate. Spaces are available for a $10 fee to accommodate individuals who wish to sell items or for commercial representatives who wish to promote businesses. Each space is equivalent to two parking spaces. Vendors may
reserve spaces by Aug. 24 by calling the number below and specifying the number of spaces desired. Vendors must bring their own tables. Donations of money, used books and miscellaneous items are welcome and may be dropped off at the ETSU at Kingsport Allandale main office MondayThursday from 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Proceeds from the sale go to the Megan Smith Scholarship Fund, which, to date, has assisted seven students. A resident of Church Hill, Smith was a 2008 graduate of Volunteer High School and had just completed her freshman year at ETSU at Kingsport Allandale at the time of her death in 2009. For more information or to reserve a space, contact Barbara Shirley at 423-439-8000 or shirleyb@etsu.edu or Debbie Marsh at 423-392-8004 or marshd@etsu.edu. For disability accommodations, call the ETSU Office of Disability Services at 423-439-8346. •••••••••••••••••••••••••• Free Tastings Free Tastings, usually 2 liquors and a wine at Tri Liquor, every Friday from 4-7pm. 6681 Bristol Hwy, Piney Flats. Next to Food City. 423-538-7000.
Cryptogram: They declaim against the passions without bothering to think that it is from their flame philosophy lights its torch DropQuote: "There is nothing better for the spirit or the body than a love affair. It elevates the thoughts and flattens the stomachs."
While perusing Flipboard, one of my favorite news apps, I came across an interesting little tidbit about a fairly new malady called “Constantly Thinking Disorder.” According to a rather bogus looking site called Online Therapy (just what we don’t need in these problematic times), “Constantly thinking, or obsessively thinking can drive oneself into a dark hole.”
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Kelly’s Place
By Jim Kelly since 1989 jkelly@ theloaferonline.com
o, I suppose we should avoid constantly thinking as much as possible, especially if we are thinking about the dangers of constantly thinking. According to some bloggers on this site, CTD is not really a disorder and should not be confused with OCD or other woes listed in the DSM, that veritable Bible of Psychiatry. Just don’t think too much about all this, and you should be fine after taking two pills and getting plenty of bedrest. In an effort to avoid as much thinking as possible-not a bad idea as a survival strategy tactic after reading today’s headlines-I naturally turned my reduced-thinking attention to pop culture and arrived at a spot where forty two years ago the Pet Rock was born. But before I got too involved with this pretty brainless topic, I did do some light thinking about another, yet related topic I found on Flipboard. Having had several philosophy courses in college, I happened to be familiar with the topic, but haven’t given it much thought in the past few years. In a very brief notice in last Wednesday’s Boing-Boing newsletter, excerpted from Philosophy Now, Mark Frauenfelder writes about European philosopher Philip Goff, who is a specialist in a very old form of thinking-panpsychism--which posits that all material entities are possessed of some form of consciousness. Brought into the modern scientific era, this way of thinking is convinced that “fundamental physical entities such as electrons have thoughts,” and therefore may have some form of psychic content. This means that even rocks might be thinking at some level. So you better be good to your Pet Rock, if you have one. Now that I have evoked the muse of Philosophy in order to give this column some sort of respectability, it is time to revisit the wonderful world of pet rocks. The first Pet Rock was introduced to the world in August 1975 by a California ad man named Gary Dahl (1936-2015). According to Jane and Michael Stern’s wonderful and essential tome THE ENCYCLOPEDIA OF POP CULTURE (1992), Dahl dreamed up his idea, which made him a multimillionnaire, after “having drinks with his buddies one night in April 1975.” After their semi-drunken state led them into a conversation about the joys and inconveniences of owning pets, Dahl began to envision his creation--a pet that required no active attention, didn’t have to be walked or taken out to pee, and didn’t cost a small fortune in food, toys, and visits to the vet. A
simple rock, once the adoption fee was paid, could bring his or her (do rocks have gender?) owners years of trouble-free maintenance. Although Dahl probably didn’t intend this, his innovative and copy-righted Pet Rock epitomized American pop culture, and became a memorable and quite inert symbol for America’s bicentennial. In fact, the pet rock phenomenon offers a nearly-mythic tale of how an ordinary person can affect the lives of millions of other people while creating a significant cultural fad. As the Sterns point out, “the story of the Pet Rock is a never-ending source of inspiration to create new crazes that sweep the nation and make millions for the genius who thought of them. To most noninventive people who remember it, the Pet Rock, like Deely Bobber head antennae and the Hula Hoop has become one of the mind-boggling examples of inexplicable market-place mania.” Today’s Fidget Spinners, which are rapidly waning in popularity, are our modernday descendents of the pet rock and countless other pop culture fads. As mentioned earlier, the Pet Rock has returned, as many pop culture fads do. My favorite incarnation is the USB Pet Rock. That’s right, a pet rock with an embedded USB port. According to its ThinkGeek webpage, this neat little item, which is currently sold out, “gives you love . . .draws no power . . . .is compatible with any OS including Mac, Windows and Linux. . . .[and] includes 18’ long USB cable.” Perhaps the most attractive feature of these must-have little items is that, once they are plugged in, “don’t do a dang thing.” We are then admonished by the marketers to get our “USB Pet Rock today and help make us rich tomorrow.” Of course, the most attractive feature of the original and the reincarnated versions of the Pet Rock is that they don’t require much thought and will give our brains a much-needed rest. If you want to become nearly brain-dead, I suggest you download your own copy of Dahl’s “The Care And Training Of Your Pet Rock” manual, which shipped with each new pet. This is a true classic from that wacky decade of the 1970s, and concludes with the very apt advice, “If you take care of your Pet Rock, your Pet Rock will take care of you.” This deserves its place alongside such brainless sayings as “If it feels good, do it,” and “Today is the first day of the rest of your life.” Here’s wishing you some relief from Constant Thinking Disorder this week. Hope this column didn’t cause you to lapse into thinking. See you next week.
theloaferonline.com | August 29, 2017
Thinking (Or Not) about Pet Rocks and Panpsychism
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theloaferonline.com | August 29, 2017
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