The Loafer December 13th by The Loafer

theloaferonline.com | December 13, 2016

on the cover

Volume 31 • Issue #2 Publisher Luci Tate

Christmas Star

Editor Graphic Arts Director Don Sprinkle Cover Design Bill May

A Wonderous Mystery

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 loss of expense resulting from claims or suits based upon contents of any advertisement, including claims or suits for defamation, libel, right of privacy, plagiarism, and copyright infringement.

Founder: Bill Williams Let’s Get Social!

4 Stargazer A Christmas Star 18 Batteries Not Included I'm My Own Santa Clause 19 Skies This Week 20 Pop Life Allied 21 Mountain Movers The Jeri George Interview 22 Appalachian Wanderers Dollywood's Smoky Mtn Christmas 23 The Casual Word Mash-Up Love 28 Puzzle Page 31 Kelly’s Place Is Access More Important Than Possession? A Christmas Meditation

your week’s line-up

Contributing Staff Jim Kelly Andy Ross Ken Silvers Mark Marquette Brian McManus Brian Bishop Daniel Worley Jason Worley Langley Shazor

columns & reviews

Advertising Dave Carter Patti Barr Sam Jones Shawn Hale Paul Kavanaugh

5 6 7 8 8 9 10 11 12 12 13 14 15 16 29 30

In Their Nature One of Ten Safest Towns In TN A Gospel Christmas Local Business Gatlinburg Relief ETSU Faculty, Alumni Grammy Nominees Carter Family Christmas Show Christmas Contra w/ Crooked Pine CYB presents The Nutcracker Lifeguard Classes Hank Niceley One Night Show A Vauderille Christmas Blue Highway Grammy Nominated Celebrate Christmas at NPAC Spotlight Pets Of The Week Things To Do

theloaferonline.com | December 13, 2016

CHRISTMAS STAR A WONDEROUS MYSTERY

No star is more famous than the Star of Bethlehem, and yet you can’t point to it in the night sky…or can you?

Stargazer

By Mark Marquette since 1996 stargazermarq@ gmail.com

The star of wonder that lead Wise Men from Persia to the infant Messiah of the Christian religion is detailed in only document: The Gospel of Mathew 2:1-12 in The Bible. The passage will be read thousands of times in places of worship and reverence this Christmas holiday season. And a bright star will shine over the manger of Jesus Christ in nativity scenes depicted from live displays to greeting cards. It’s a powerful image in the mind: a brilliant star in the sky that shines like a directional beacon marking the spot of a miracle. Believing the “star” heralded the birth of a Hebrew King predicted for centuries, a caravan of stargazing priests and their entourage traveled 550 miles from Bagdad to Bethlehem just to bring gifts and pay homage. The celebration of Jesus’ birth wouldn’t be complete without the Star of Bethlehem. But exactly what was it? Well, go outside right after sunset and look around the sky. You are almost startled by the brightness of that spectacular “star” in the southwest, right? That’s planet Venus, making its twice a year appearance as the “Evening Star.” Only the Sun and Moon are brighter. When Venus is at “eastern apparition” and in our evening skies a few months, all eyes are drawn toward it. Last week (Dec. 2 & 3) the crescent Moon and Venus were side-by-side, making a striking scene that couldn’t be ignored, even by the causal glance. Several national flags and symbols adopt this crescent Moon and star motif. Right now in our Christmas 2016 morning sky is the fourth brightest object in the sky, the planet Jupiter. It rises jlkj before the Sun, and if you get up early it will also jerk your eyes skyward even if for just a few seconds. So imagine the excitement last year when there was a grand “conjunction” of Venus and Jupiter in our evening skies in the Summer of 2015. In fact the pair of planets was so close on July 1st that they were barely separated to the naked eye and a close pair in binoculars. Last year it was exciting to watch the conjunction of the two brightest objects besides the Sun and Moon as it played out over months of evenings in the constellation Leo the Lion near the bright star Regulus, or “Regal One.” So imagine the human reaction 2,000 years ago when this same scenario played out as Venus and Jupiter virtually merged as one star in the early evening of June 17, 1 BC. The previous year the two planets had been playing tag in the night sky with Mars, and the whole celestial passion play was watched closely by the ancient stargazers. Was this the sign in the sky that the learned Zoastrian Priests of Persia have been looking for? Most archeoastronomy scholars think it is the logical answer. The reason is the mind of the ancient stargazer, and how the common person had a keen interest in the night sky—their only entertainment. Everything watched in the sky was interpreted as a sign of the Gods communicating with the human race on Earth. We call that astrology, and know it is a bunch of unfounded claims based on fiction, not fact. Yet a horoscope of our fate based on the position of the Sun, Moon and stars is too tantalizing to turn down interest, even if just for entertainment. It is obvious what the Star of Bethlehem couldn’t be as the usual suspects weren’t recorded in history. And the famous star was a noticeable object(s) in the night sky. But it wasn’t something that a busy aristocrat like King Herod would see and recognize as a sign of a Messiah. According to the Bible’s Matthew, King Herod asked the Wise Men about the star and where it was located. A comet would have been written in history. So would an exploding star, called a supernova. None are recorded around the time of Jesus’ birth, estimated from 6

BC-2 AD. A meteor is too fleeting, though some can be extremely bright. No solar or lunar eclipses happened around that time. The birth date is certainly not Dec. 25, 0 BC/AD. First, King Herod died in after a lunar eclipse but it’s not certain if it was 4 BC or 1 BC. Remember, Matthew says he had all male boys under age 2 killed hoping to eliminate the infant Messiah. The second obvious point that proves Jesus was not born in December is shepherds watch their flocks in the Spring, when lambs are born, and they aren’t outside much in the Winter. Third, the Roman tax edict that sent Joseph and Mary back to Bethlehem from Nazarath and Herod’s actions all point to a birth in the Spring of 4, 3 or 2 BC. That why the frequent conjunctions, or meetings, of planets in the Houses of the Zodiac is the Number One suspect as the Star of Bethlehem. Just look up at brilliant Venus this Christmas 2016 Season—it is irresistible. Strip the night world of the buildings, lights and airplanes and you begin to see the attention the stars were given by our ancestors of millennia ago. Now you understand one of the iconic images of Christianity, and can revel at Venus as a beautiful sign in our 2016 Christmas evenings. And be at peace, because on this planet Earth, a Savior was born, who lived as an example of how to treat every man and woman as an equal and a child of God.

Painter, ceramicist weave ‘thread of life’ into works For centuries, artists have found mysteries, answers and inspiration in the natural world around them. Aristotle said, “Art takes nature as its model.” The result of this symbiosis can take many forms. When Charles Jones looks out from his front porch at the pastoral landscape surrounding Sweetwater Farm, between Jonesborough and Johnson City, onto his painter’s canvas flow blindfolded giraffes, blazing zebras and birdlike and mythical creatures of all shapes, sizes and juxtapositions. Jim Oxandale steps onto his deck, high above Hwy. 81 and the state’s oldest town, to gaze on layers of mountains and a bevy of birds at feeders. He walks inside to his pottery wheel, and from his fingertips fly luna moths and carpenter and honeybees. Colorful catfish, frogs and koi slowly begin to swim ’round his clay bowls. Jones’ acrylic paintings and Oxandale’s art pottery will be on exhibit Friday, Dec. 9, through Jan. 27 at Jonesborough’s McKinney Center, 103 Franklin Ave., as part of the Mary B. Martin Program For the Arts 2016 Artist Exhibition Series. The opening reception is also Friday, Dec. 9, from 6-8 p.m., and all are free and open to the public. “When I put together this artist exhibition series I knew that Jim and Charles would be a natural match,” says Director of the McKinney Center Theresa Hammons. “Although their mediums are completely different their color palette, themes and inspiration are extremely similar. Their art is moving, beautiful and masterful.” Despite their differing choices of media, that natural thread connects the two artists, their contemporaries and many who have gone before them. “I think all life has a beautiful thread running through it that’s connected, and that’s what you’re looking for as an artist,” says Jones, who was painting portraits of his brothers by age 7 and holds degrees in sculpture and painting. “Mother Nature is the best artist we have,” says

Oxandale, who started in watercolor, turning to pottery as a young professional. “She comes up with some of the most interesting and beautiful creatures, and transferring them to a pot is kind of fun and challenging. It’s actually very challenging.” Jones will have about 30 pieces and Oxandale close to 20 in the McKinney Center exhibition. Jones’ paintings, he says, will range from as large as 72 inches by 54 inches to 10-by-10 inches. As a longtime fine-art framer, Jones will bring that artistry, as well, to the show, crafting and framing all his paintings himself with various handmade finishes. Oxandale’s work will include art pottery and what he calls functional pieces, including platters, bowls, cups and vases, as well as “showy” pieces. His techniques include wax resist and handcrafting patterns in the design to add texture and dimension, as well as handshaping and painting special handles. “Sometimes I envy other artists,” says Oxandale, who has two kilns in his home studio where he fires away, “because, with painting, you put your paint on the canvas and you can see instantly what it looks like and what it’s going to look like when you’re done. But ceramics is less predictable. The glazes interact with each other, and every fire is different and there are so many variables. But when a piece turns out the way you wanted it to turn out, it’s real satisfying.” Having been exhibited at The Collective and other galleries in Kansas, Oxandale’s ceramics can now be found locally at Art Curious and Piece by Piece, as well as online at oxhollowpottery.com. Jones has shown his work extensively, including locally at Reece Museum and with KimseyMiller Gallery in Seattle, and his work hangs now in Mr. K’s Books in Johnson City, Knoxville and Charleston, S.C. “Hopefully art – that I make and the art that I look at – can be transformational,” Jones says. “It gives you something even if you’re not sure what …” Jones says. “It should be powerful, but I’m enough of a visual person to want it to be just good to look at … I want it to be somehow just physically beautiful. I strive for that.” Some of Oxandale and Jones’ work will be on sale at the exhibition. For more information, contact Theresa Hammons, McKinney Center director, at 423-7530562.

theloaferonline.com | December 13, 2016

IN THEIR NATURE

ONE OF TEN SAFEST TOWN IN TN

Jonesborough Named

theloaferonline.com | December 13, 2016

onesborough may be known as Tennessee’s Oldest Town, but it is also known as one of Tennessee’s Safest Towns. According to Value Penguin’s rankings based on a variety of crime metrics sourced from the FBI across 90 Tennessee cities with a population over 5,000, Jonesborough ranks as the sixth safest small town in Tennessee and overall, the ninth safest town in the state. The crime scores (violent crime and property crime) ranged from 291 to 7,532; the average crime score for the state is 2,582 and Jonesborough’s overall score was 743. Craig Ford, Operations Manager/Director of Public Safety, explains what these numbers mean for Jonesborough, “That is phenomenal for Jonesborough, and one of those reasons it is great is that you have to look at the location of cities. Some of those are off the beaten path and when you look at Jonesborough, even though our resident population is just north of 5,000, we have 35,000 cars a day on 11E that are coming through our jurisdiction and we have 12,000 cars a day on Main Street.” The time, energy and commitment to quality service put into achieving such a significant honor is not overlooked by leaders in Jonesborough. Kelly Wolfe, Jonesborough Mayor, says the town has Jonesborough’s first responders to thank for the new ranking. “We are very proud of our police, fire and EMS staff, and the positive image that they have, and the great work they do in our community,” Wolfe said. “These are very hardworking people who literally put their lives on the line each day. The importance of the role they play cannot be overstated and anytime you get an award such as this, it merely serves as confirmation as to the great job our folks are doing.” Ford illustrates how Jonesborough is able to keep crime numbers immensely low despite the fact the town attracts thousands of outside visitors for events throughout the year. “Our philosophy in law enforcement is to have a proactive approach to things and not a reactive approach. So when we are out there in the community patrolling and people come through Jonesborough, they see our officers and police cruisers around the businesses and neighborhoods. You cannot have a better deterrent than that. That helps keep those crime numbers down.” This information is important to residents and visitors. Ron Street, Jonesborough Police Chief, expresses what this research will say to the public, “I think it sends a pretty strong message to those thinking about committing a crime that Jonesborough is not the place to come and do that. It is also a prestigious thing to say that your town that you live in is the ninth safest place in the state of Tennessee.” However, Street has the motivation and desire to do even better; “One of the things that we’ve strived for and will continue to strive for is to be in the top 5.” Ford clarifies how this ranking is beneficial to Jonesborough’s future, “I think that in and of itself it’s a very good economic development tool for us, for people who are looking for a safe place to live, and mahole.” Here is the link providing the full report: https://www. valuepenguin.com/2016/safest-places-tennessee

Senior Services at Memorial Park Community Center, 510 Bert St., will host the musical program A Christmas Fantasy on Thursday, Dec. 15 at 4:30 p.m. Performers will include the Johnson City Senior Chorale, Musical Voices, Gail Morris and Cherry Smith’s piano and voice students, and Gay Whitt of Erwin Timeless Tappers and Dancers. There is no charge for this program. Refreshments will be served. Please register at the Senior Services front desk. For more information, please call (423)434-6237.

Families with children of all ages will learn the art of origami together.

The program will be held in the Jones Meeting Room on Thursday, December 15 at 6:00 p.m. No registration is required for this free program. Materials are provided on a first-come, first-serve basis. For more information about this free program or other Youth Services programs, please call 423434-4458.

theloaferonline.com | December 13, 2016

A CHRISTMAS FANTASY

ORIGAMI

Presented in “Gaither Homecoming” fashion, LampLight will host A Gospel Christmas for ONE NIGHT ONLY on December 17th at 7:00 pm. 75 singers will don the stage to croon your favorite Christmas carols and Gospel songs with harmony so sweet, it will put the star on top of your tree, so to speak! Many songs will be in “sing-a-long” style, with words to guide your tunes, so bring your best voice (or your joyful noise) and come to the event that will turn out to be the highlight of your holiday season! A Gospel Christmas will bring you familiar Christmas songs like Frosty the Snowman and Winter Wonderland, Christmas Carols like Joy to the World and O Come All Ye Faithful, and Gospel favorites like Rejoice with Exceeding Great Joy originally by the Martins and Glory to God in the Highest originally by the Old Friends Quartet! Hear talent from this region that will bless your heart and impress you off your feet! This night is sure to usher you into the Christmas spirit just in time and remind you of the joy of the season! A Gospel Christmas will be performed One Night only on December 17th at 7:00 pm, so be sure to get your tickets early! Reservations are recommended. Doors will open one hour prior to the performance. A suggested donation for this performance is $10.00 for adults, $5.00 for students, FREE for children 5 years of age and under. A love offering will be taken. For more information or to make a reservation, call the LampLight box office at 423-343-1766, Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. or visit online at www.LampLightTheatre.com. LampLight Theatre is located at 140 Broad Street, Kingsport, TN.

SENIOR SERVICES 7

LEARING

A GOSPEL CHRISTMAS

Gather Around the Piano for

Gathered around the piano, singing Christmas carols with friends and family - Ah! Can you hear it? Come join us at LampLight Theatre this season and join in the harmony!

GATLINBURG RELIEF

theloaferonline.com | December 13, 2016

Local business supporting

TheYOUtee, an online business based out of Kingsport, Tennessee released its #GatlinburgStrong shirt series last week in response to the wildfires that devastated Sevier County, Tennessee.

The company, owned by Tara Burns and Jenny Kontos, formed last spring with the purpose of creating and selling shirts to assist non-profits and charitable organizations. The #GatlinburgStrong tee is the second in their series—they recently donated $2,500 to the Greater Kingsport Boys & Girls Club through sales of their ‘Young Aspiring’ tees. 100% of the profits from the #GatlinburgStrong shirt go to support the Dollywood Foundation’s ‘My People Fund,’ which will donate $1,000 every month for six months to people who lost their homes in the fire. #GatlinburgStrong shirts are available in several styles—a white and gray-sleeved raglan ($18), a gray and black-sleeved raglan ($18), a gray thermal ($18), and a gray tee ($15). The shirts feature a tree-lined hilltop, stars, and circular design indicative of the Tennessee flag. Design colors and sizes vary based on shirt style. Sizes range from adult XS to 4XL. Shirts can be ordered by visiting theYOUtee.com and will be available next week for pick up and purchase at 217 Broad Street, #110, Kingsport. (Due to highdemand, online ordering is recommended).

ETSU faculty and alumni among

GRAMMY NOMINEES East Tennessee State University is proud to be represented by faculty and alumni among the nominees for the 2017 Grammy Awards, a list of which was released earlier this week. Dr. Ted Olson, a professor in the Department of Appalachian Studies, and Tony Russell received a nomination for Best Album Notes for “The Knoxville Sessions, 1929-1930: Knox County Stomp.” The two co-authored a hardcover book to accompany this Bear Family Records boxed set, which they also co-produced, of the 102 extant recordings from the sessions conducted by the Brunswick-Vocalion record label at the St. James Hotel in downtown Knoxville. The recordings had never been reissued in any form and only existed on rare 78 RPM records, some with only one copy remaining. A nomination for Best World Music Album went to Ladysmith Black Mambazo for “Walking in the Footsteps of Our Fathers.” Martin Walters, a lecturer in Jazz Studies in the Department of Music and

also a lecturer in the Department of Media and Communication, was the mastering engineer for the album. Kenny Chesney, an alumnus of Bluegrass, Old Time and Country Music Studies at ETSU, and P!nk were nominated for Best Country Duo/Group Performance for “Setting the World on Fire,” and a nomination for Best Bluegrass Album went to Blue Highway for the newly released “Original Traditional.” Blue Highway features alumni Tim Stafford on vocals and guitar and vocalist/multiinstrumentalist Shawn Lane. Stafford, also a former faculty member, currently serves on the ETSU Bluegrass Development Council. In addition, the instrumental fusion band Snarky Puppy, of which ETSU Department of Music alumnus Justin Stanton is a member, was nominated for Best Contemporary Instrumental Album for “Culcha Vulcha.” Pianist and trumpeter Stanton is an Elizabethton native and graduated from ETSU with a bachelor’s degree in music in 2005. Snarky Puppy won the 2016 Grammy in that same category for “Sylva,” a collaborative effort with Metropole Orkest, a jazz and pop orchestra from the Netherlands. The 2017 Grammy Awards will be presented on Feb. 12.

The Carter Fold is excited to have Eugene performing here at the Fold once again, and we’re very grateful to him and “his friends” for donating their time and talent to this special Christmas show. Students from the ETSU Bluegrass Program will be performing and showcasing their great talents. Come out and join us at the Carter Family Fold for a special Appalachian Mountain Christmas celebration. It’s a great opportunity to hear some of the best music our region has to offer and to support a good cause at the same time. More people than ever need assistance from our nation’s food banks. Many of them simply don’t have enough resources to help everyone in need. Help us make this a record year for the amount of canned goods donated. The A.P. Carter birthplace cabin will be specially decorated in the mountain Christmas tradition – including handstrung garland. Spending time with us during our Christmas celebration will take you back to a time when the true meaning of the season wasn’t lost in the commercial frenzy of modern-day Christmas. Carter Family Memorial Music Center, Incorporated, is a nonprofit, rural arts organization established to preserve traditional, acoustic, mountain music. For further information on the center, go to http:// www.carterfamilyfold.org. Shows from the Carter Family Fold can be accessed on the internet at http://www.carterfoldshow.com. Carter Music Center is part of the Crooked Road: Virginia’s Heritage Music Trail. You can visit the Crooked Road Music Trail site at http:// thecrookedroad.org. Partial funding for programs at the center is provided by the Virginia Commission for the Arts and the National Endowment for the Arts. For recorded information on shows coming up at the Fold, call 276-386-6054. The Fold is on Facebook – page Carter Fold – and Twitter – Twitter @carterfoldinfo. To speak to a Fold staff member, call 276-594-0676.

theloaferonline.com | December 13, 2016

Annual Carter Family Fold

CHRISTMAS SHOW

aturday, December 17th, 2016, at 7:30 p.m. the Carter Family Fold in Hiltons, Virginia, will present a special Christmas program. In lieu of admission, please bring a donation of canned goods for the local food bank (suggested amount $10 per person). Those not bringing a canned goods donation are asked to make a donation of $10 for adults with all proceeds going to the Food Bank. Anyone under 12 will be admitted free of charge. Those attending are asked to bring finger foods, covered dishes, two-liter drinks, and cups, plates, or napkins. Christmas music will be performed as refreshments are served. Afterwards, we’ll have music by Eugene Wolf & friends and possibly a surprise guest or two. Musicians donate their time for this special Christmas show. Eugene Wolf and Friends will be performing traditional Carter Family Music, Christmas music, and bluegrass. Eugene is wellknown to Carter Fold audiences. Since his portrayal of A.P. Carter in Barter Theatre’s play on the Carter Family was first performed in 2002, Eugene has truly become a member of the Carter Family. Long-time Carter Family friend Bill Clifton said that A.P.’s character could not have been better portrayed had A.P. himself come back to life to play the role. In addition to bringing the play to Fold audiences, Eugene has performed at Carter Family Festivals and most recently at the annual Janette Carter Gospel tribute show. When he’s not acting at Barter, Eugene plays with the Brother Boys. He collaborated with Russian musician Mitya Kuznetsov to produce a CD of Carter Family music – Where We’ll Never Grow Old. No one plays Carter Family music with more love and reverence than Eugene Wolf. We’re honored to welcome him back to the Fold.

theloaferonline.com | December 13, 2016

CHRISTMAS CONTRA featuring Crooked Pine

The Historic Jonesborough Dance Society and the Jolly Ole Elf will hold a dance extravaganza on Saturday December 17, 2016 at the Jonesborough Visitors Center, 117 Boone Street at 7:00pm featuring the North Carolina based band “Crooked Pine” with David Winston calling the dance. Admission is $7, $5 for HJDS members and $5 for full time students. A class for newcomer contra dances will run from 7:00-7:30pm. The dance will go from 7:30-10:30pm. Dancers are invited to bring their favorite holiday desserts for the 9:00pm intermission. This event will cap an eleven-year run of contra dances in Jonesborough! Dancers are invited to waltz from 6:007:00pm to recorded music. “We do country dance waltz compared to ballroom style waltz” offers David Wiley, event organizer. When people say “I can't waltz”, they're probably thinking back to their ballroom dancing days. But a ballroom waltz is quite a different animal from a country dance waltz. For one thing, it's a lot slower. For another, you spend almost the whole time in ballroom position. But the crucial difference is that a ballroom waltz is made up of three steps. The man steps forward, putting his right leg between his partner's legs, then he takes his left leg forward and to the side, then he closes right to left. In the next bar he steps backward on his left, and it's the lady's turn to step forward on the right. The folk waltz is quite different; it's sometimes described as a “onestep waltz”. You still do three steps: right, left, right — but the second and third are pretty much on the spot; the first step is where you do most of the travelling. It really isn't forward-side-together; it's steptwo-three, step-two-three. If you concentrate on the first step and let the other two just happen, you'll find the whole thing much easier. Turn your shoulders and your feet will follow — it sounds silly, but it's absolutely true. HJDS is planning a series of waltz workshops in the next few months to teach country waltz.

Crooked Pine is Marion "Weasel" Boatwright on Fiddle, Troy "Hot Springs" Harrison on Banjo, Frank "Lefty" McConnell on Guitar, Craig "Chief T" Bannerman on Bass.

Crooked Pine has the reputation of being a high energy old time contra band that works very closely with a caller to match tunes to dances. Oh, and by the way, we stand up to play music and we have a great time at dances. It makes a difference. "The Crooked Pine String Band is a delight to work with. I worked with the band recently calling a dance for a rehearsal dinner. Not only was the music perfect for dancing, the band was attuned to my cues while teaching and dancing. The energy and variety of tunes for big circle mountain dancing was great. Ending with a beautiful waltz the wedding couple were thrilled with the evening of music and dance." Beth Gunn, Dance Caller and Recreation Leader The contra dance will include several historic dances that have a Christmas theme including “Holiday Jig” by Ted Sanella, “Christmas Eve Quadrille” by Tom Hinds and “Christmas Hornpipe” by Ralph Page. Boom Chuck also has adapted several Christmas Carols for contra dance. David Winston, senior software engineer for IBM, lives in Asheville. He started contra dancing in 2000 in the Washington, D.C. area where he met his wife Juliette. His first calling

workshop in 2003 was led by Tom Hinds who recently called our dance on June 1st. David strives to connect with all levels of dancers through his clear teaching and steady calling. He is always willing to help new dancers learn basic skills, feel comfortable, and enjoy the contra dancing experience. Their 15-year old daughter, Genevieve, is an excellent contra dancer. The Winstons are definitely a contra dancing family. For more information on Saturday’s dance or any upcoming events, please call David Wiley at 423-534-8879 or visit www. historicjonesboroughdancesociety. org. Or Historic Jonesborough Dance Society on FACEBOOK.

“We love this story because it stirs our imagination,” said Susan White, artistic director and owner of the City Youth Ballet. “But the splendor of classical ballet is what brings in our audiences. These dancers bring the best of ballet to our community.” The production showcases dancers in glittering costumes with spectacular scenery all set to the glorious score of composer Peter Tchaikovsky. Guest artist Will Robichaud of Ballet Spartanburg (S.C.) dances the roles of the Cavalier and Snow King. The Nutcracker story begins at a 19th-century home in Germany owned by the Stahlbaum family, whose daughter Clara, a role shared by Mia Garbe and Lily Norton, anticipates a festive Christmas party. Amid the celebration, Herr

Drosselmeyer, an enchanting uncle, arrives to bestow gifts on the children including the Nutcracker. After a battle with toy soldiers and a band of mythical mice, the Nutcracker takes Clara through a wintery wonderland and on to the Land of Sweets ruled by the Sugar Plum Fairy, a role shared by senior dancers Hannah Thigpen and Lilly McKenzie. Dancers from around the world play host to Clara in the Land of Sweets before she is whisked back to her home. “Our choreography this year showcases years of practice and performance by our dancers,” says Ms. White. “Even audience members who have seen this production for years will revel in its tradition but find something new in our ballet pieces and choreography.” General admission and reserved-seating tickets can be purchased at Bear ‘n Friends Toy Shoppe, Peerless Centre, on North Roan Street in Johnson City, or at the door. Doors open one half-hour before the performance at the Gregory Center, 400 Blowers Boulevard on the Milligan campus. For more information, call the City Youth Ballet, 434-2195; visit us on Facebook, or www. cityyouthballet.org.

Johnson City Police Support Wives and Girlfriends (S.W.A.G.) organize the Shop With a Cop event, which is set for Dec. 15. Officers and their significant others will take 52 children shopping and will provide Christmas morning presents to 78 children. They also will provide food boxes and hams to the families. Graphic Disorder owner Brandt Fuqua recently brought his entire staff to the Police Department to present $7,500 to Officer Brittney Eberhardt, Police Chief Mark Sirois and S.W.A.G. representatives Sarah Roberts and Amber Keller. For more information or to donate to Johnson City’s Shop With a Cop, please contact Keller at (423)676-2979.

theloaferonline.com | December 13, 2016

The cherished magic of “The Nutcracker” once again comes to stage as the City Youth Ballet of Johnson City presents this classic holiday tradition in shows set for Dec. 16-17 at 7:30 p.m., and Dec. 17-18 at 2:30 p.m. at Milligan College’s Gregory Center.

SHOP

THE NUTCRACKER

WITH A COP

City Youth Ballet presents the holiday classic

For the third year in a row, Graphic Disorder has provided a large donation to Johnson City’s Shop With a Cop program.

LIFEGUARD CLASSES

Freedom Hall Pool, 1320 Pactolas Road, will offer American Red Cross Lifeguard Certification classes for ages 15 and older on the following dates:

• January 6-8, 14-15, 27-29 • February 4-5, 17-19, 25-26 • March 10-12, 18-19 Classes will take place on Fridays 6-10 a.m., Saturdays 8 a.m.-6 p.m., and Sundays 8 a.m.-1 p.m. A required pre-test will be offered on Saturdays in January, February and March from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Participants may register for the class upon completion of the pre-test, which includes:

1. Swim 300 yards continuously, using these strokes in the following order: • 100 yards of front crawl using rhythmic breathing and a stabilizing, propellant kick. Rhythmic breathing can be performed either by breathing to side or to the front. • 100 yards of breaststroke. • 100 yards of either front crawl using rhythmic breathing or breaststroke. 2. Swim 20 yards using front crawl or breaststroke, surface dive to a depth of 7 to 10 feet and retrieve a 10-pound object, return to the surface, and swim 20 yards back to the starting point. When returning to the starting point with the object, exit the water without using the ladder of steps, within one minute, 40 seconds. 3. Tread water, without use of hands, for two minutes. Class fee is $200 per person, which includes book, face mask, and all certifications. Upon completion of the course, the participant will be certified in lifeguarding, first aid, CPR Pro and AED essentials for the professional rescuer. Certification is valid for two years after completion. For more information and to sign up for the class, please call (423)461-4872 or (423)434-5754.

ONE NIGHT ONLY

Freedom Hall Pool offers

Rising country and folk artist

theloaferonline.com | December 13, 2016

Independent record label Tate Music Group is excited to present country and folk artist Hank Niceley as he features his one-of-akind music to the public. Join Hank Niceley as he performs his songs live in a one-night-only occasion. Head over to The Acoustic Coffee House located at 415 W. Walnut Street in Johnson City on the 17th of December for a night of country music from the extremely talented singer and songwriter. The show starts at 8p.m so the fans will be serenaded with powerful tracks by this inspiring country artist all night. Hank Niceley is a talented artist on the rise who hails from New Market, Tennessee. His music uplifts the soul and hearts of every listener. This singer/songwriter both empowers and delights his audiences. With an early start in his musical journey, he has well cultivated his God-given talent and has been sharing it to others. He has released many collections with Tate Music Group and is now focused on sharing new and more music for his fans!

Fatigue, irritability and depression are typically more prevalent around the holidays. Often associated with conditions such as hypoglycemia, insulin resistance and/or diabetes, these symptoms can be related to fluctuating blood sugar levels. If you suspect unstable blood sugar levels, you may be interested in knowing about a review of study results concluding that a compound derived from vegetable fiber called Inositol Hexaphosphate (IP6) could be key in regulating insulin production. Through 15 years of extensive research at the University of Maryland, scientists have focused mainly on the ability of IP6 to improve immune function, increase natural killer cell activity, even slow down abnormal cell division, but, by chance, it was also found to stabilize blood sugar levels. Of course, it’s also important to stick with dietary and lifestyle strategies proven to help keep blood sugar stable, cravings under control, and energy/mood optimal. As always, your satisfaction is guaranteed.

Locally Owned for 35 Years

theloaferonline.com | December 13, 2016

BENEFITING FAMILIES AFFECTED BY GATLINBURG FIRES

A Vaudeville Christmas

Jalopy Junction Vaudeville Theater will be performing a Christmas show at the Acoustic Coffeehouse on Saturday, December 17 at 9pm. Jalopy Junction, a vaudeville troupe, recreates the entertainment of a different era, keeping in the style of 1930's stage performance. In this performance they will be entertaining with fire tricks, daring acrobatics, comedy, marvelous melodic music, and much much more. The night will be an eclectic mix of entertainment full of Christmas nostalgia. Performances include: the beautiful Bonnie Blaze, fire eater and stunt performer, MoMo, trapeze artist, Mars, musician with marvelous melodies, MC B, stage magician and master of ceremonies, the comedic stylings and percussive noises by Tate and J.Edison, glow and fire poi performer. Live music will be provided throughout the evening. You will be sure to laugh, cringe, and be serenaded! Tickets are $10 at the door. Show starts at 9 p.m. All proceeds will go towards the families affected by the recent tragic fires in Gatlinburg. For more information email jalopyjunction@gmail.com or check us out on facebook.

Christmas Dance with

KIDS OUR AGE

Citizens are invited to put on their jingle bells and join Senior Services for a special Christmas Dance on Friday, Dec. 16 at Memorial Park Community Center, 510 Bert St. The dance will take place from 7-10 p.m., and refreshments will be served. Cost is $7 per person; Silver SneakersÂŽ discounts are available for eligible members. Please pre-register in person at the MPCC Senior Services front desk. For more information, call (423)434-6237.

theloaferonline.com | December 13, 2016

BLUE2017HIGHWAY GRAMMY NOMINEE

Blue Highway is honored to be nominated for a 2017 GRAMMY Award for Best Bluegrass Album for their newly released album "Original Traditional" on Rounder Records. Nominees were announced December 6th, with other nominees in the Best Bluegrass Album category including Doyle Lawson, Laurie Lewis, Claire Lynch, and Mark O'Connor. The 59th Annual Grammy Awards will be held on Sunday, February 12, at the Staples Center in Los Angeles, and will be aired nationally on CBS. Released on September 9, "Original Traditional" has already charted two #1 songs, with the album soaring to #1 on

national charts in early November. Blue Highway have earned 26 IBMA Awards, 6 SPBGMA Awards, one Dove Award, and three Grammy nominations as a band to date. Wayne Taylor was the 2016 Inductee into the Virginia Country Music Hall of Fame. The 22-year strong powerhouse Blue Highway is based in East Tennessee, and debuted in Kingsport on New Year's Eve 1994. Blue Highway members include Jason Burleson (banjo, vocals), Shawn Lane (mandolin, fiddle, vocals), Gaven Largent (dobro, vocals), Tim Stafford (guitar, vocals), and Wayne Taylor (bass, vocals). For more information on Blue Highway, please go to www.BlueHighwayBand. com. Complete listing of 2017 Grammy Nominees is here: www.Grammy.com/ Nominees.

Photo by Jason Richardson

Friday, Dec. 16 at Acoustic Coffeehouse

FOLK / AMERICANA ARTIST

Jessie Bardwell

Jesse Bardwell is a singer songwriter born and raised in the rolling hills of northwest New Jersey, but currently resides with in close proximity to the beautiful Delaware Water Gap in northeastern Pennsylvania. With an innate calling to music, he started his career early on; in 2005, at the age of 17, Quimby Mountain Band was formed. Fronted by Bardwell playing mandolin and lead vocal QMB toured from the Atlantic to the mighty Mississippi for over a decade opening for the likes of Railroad Earth, NRPS, Keller Williams and many more. Recently he has been embarking on a solo path, taking him to Nashville to record his first solo EP due to come out Spring 2017. Try to catch him battling a bold new frontier as he single handedly wields an old dreadnought fighting to have his music heard. For more music, videos, and information about Jesse please visit www.JesseBardwell.com.

Natalie Grant & Danny Gokey SEASONAL CONCERT Share the stage at NPAC Two of Christian music’s powerhouse vocalists, Natalie Grant and Danny Gokey, will ring in this year’s holiday season together on the Celebrate Christmas Tour. Showtime is December 17th at 7:30 PM at the Niswonger Performing Arts Center. A four-time Grammy® nominee and five-time Dove Award-winning Female Vocalist of the Year, Grant and six-time Dove nominee and K-LOVE’s 2016 Male Artist of the Year, Gokey are a quintessential vocal pairing, setting the stage for an unforgettable holiday experience. Under the musical direction of Grammy®-winning songwriter/producer Bernie Herms (Josh Groban, Barbra Streisand, Casting Crowns, Natalie Grant) the Celebrate Christmas Tour will allow Grant and Gokey to craft a collaborative set as they perform a combination of Christmas classics along with selections from Grant’s critically-acclaimed, soulful-tinged Christmas project Believe, and Gokey’s No. 1 album

Christmas Is Here (2015). Selections will include favorites like “O Holy Night,” “Joy To The World,” “Mary, Did You Know?” and more. Come celebrate the season with Natalie Grant and Danny Gokey at the Niswonger Performing Arts Center (NPAC) in historic downtown Greeneville, TN on Saturday, December 17th at 7:30 PM. Tickets are $35 for orchestra level seating, $30 for mezzanine seating and $25 for balcony seats. Tickets may be purchased online at HYPERLINK "http://www.npacgreeneville. com" www.npacgreeneville.com, in person at the NPAC box office, or by calling 423-638-1679. This performance is sponsored by Baker Donelson. NPAC offers online seat selection with no processing or delivery fees. There is a $1.50 ticketing fee per ticket regardless of purchase method. The box office hours are Monday through Friday, 10 am until 5 pm. The 1150 seat performing arts center is located adjacent to the campus of Greeneville High School. For venue information, and to purchase tickets, please visit www.npacgreeneville.com.

The Civic Chorale, under direction of its Music Director, Dr. Rodney Caldwell, presents its annual seasonal concert on Saturday, December 17 at 7:00 PM at First Presbyterian Church, 105 South Boone Street, Johnson City, Tennessee. The concert repertoire features Benjamin Britten’s A Ceremony of Carols, as well as other holiday selections. There is a $10 suggested donation at the door. The Civic Chorale, founded in 1973, is the region’s premiere auditioned volunteer adult chorus. Dr. Caldwell is also the director of choral studies at Mars Hill University in Mars Hill, North Carolina. For additional information, visit the Chorale web site at www. thecivicchorale.org.

theloaferonline.com | December 13, 2016

CIVIC CHORALE 15

Spotlight

theloaferonline.com | December 13, 2016

Downtown Country Addie Brownlee & Other Kerrville Folk Winnters Down Home

Railway Express

Country Club Bar & Grill

Acoustifried

Acoustic Coffeehouse

- WEDNESDAY - Dec. 13th -

The Barefoot Movement

Down Home

Open Mic

Jiggy Ray’s Pizzeria

Miss Ellie & Friends

The Low Counts w/ The Force Field Sleepy Owl Brewery

Jimmy & The Jawbones

Rush Street

Yee Haw Brewing Company

Brandon Fields

Nightshift Band

Woody Pines & Will Carter

David & Valerie Mayfield

Jiggy Ray’s Pizzeria

Fish Fisher

- SATURDAY - Dec. 16th-

- FRIDAY - Dec. 15th -

- TUESDAY - Dec. 12th Jiggy Ray’s Pizzeria

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.

The Willow Tree Coffeehouse & Music Room

Paul Fields Memorial Tour

David Thompson’s Produce

The Damascus Brewery

Sundown Band

Jiggy Ray’s Pizzeria

Washington County Moose Lodge

Kids Our Age

Nightshift Band

Memorial Park Community Center

Circus No. 9

David Thompson’s Produce

Nostalgia Duo

The Harvest Table

Sleepy Owl Brewery

Peerless Steakhouse Lounge

Open Mic

Phoenix Band

Christmas Show

The Willow Tree Coffeehouse & Music Room

The Barefoot Movement

Chilhowee Lion’s Club

Carter Family Fold

Down Home

Memorial Park Community Center

Kids Our Age

J Squared

Mal Cooper / Bob Fleming & The Drunk Girl Chorus

Below 7

Hank Nicely / American Gonzos

Acoustic Coffeehouse

- THURSDAY - Dec. 14th -

Bob Fleming & the Drunk Girl Chorus

The Hideaway

O’Mainnin’s Pub

Adam McMillan

Hungry I at The Apex

Benny Wilson Band

Holston River Brewing Company

Acoustic Coffeehouse

Railway Express

Country Club Bar & Grill

Bluesman

Bone Fire Smokehouse

Jesse Bardwell

Rick Simply

Wellington’s Restaurant

Acoustic Coffeehouse

Adam McMillan

Bluegrass Sweethearts

Rainbow Asian Cuisine

Bone Fire Smokehouse

- SATURDAY - Dec. 16th -

Scott Bianchi

Acoustic Coffeehouse

Circus Mutts

Bone Fire Smokehouse

- FRIDAY - Dec. 15th -

Indighost / Space Wizard / BOA

The Hideaway

F-Bomb

O’Mainnin’s Pub

The Gentleman & Liars

Capone’s

Holston River Brewing Company

- SUNDAY - Dec. 17th -

Open Mic

Acoustic Coffeehouse

Live Music

Bone Fire Smokehouse

Haal / Navajo Witch / Rev Low

The Hideaway

The Billy Crawford Band

Capone’s

Shooter

- MONDAY -Dec. 18th -

Jerry Pierce & the Nightlife Band The Dispensary

Open Mic

Acoustic Coffeehouse

Elizabethton Moose Lodge

A Great Disaster

The Willow Tree Coffeehouse & Music Room

Wyldeheart

CJ’s Sports Bar

for show time & more details, visit

theloaferonline.com

Down Home 300 W. Main St. Johnson City 423/929-9822

O’Mainnin’s Pub 712 State St Bristol 423/844-0049

Eagles Club 1097 Boody Rd. Castlewood Va 276/762-9837

Our House Restaurant 4903 N. Roan St. Johnson City 423/ 282-1555

Elizabethton Senior Ctr 428 E. G Street Elizabethton 423/543-4362

Rainbow Asian Cuisine 2412 N. Roan St. Johnson City 423/ 232-6688

Buffalo Ruritan 200 Willowbrook Dr. Bluff City 423/391-7382

The Harvest Table Restaurant 13180 Meadowview Sq Meadowview Va 276/944-5140

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

Capone’s 227 E Main St Johnson City 423/928-2295

The Hideaway 235 E. Main St Johnson City 423/ 926-3896

Carter Family Fold 3449 A. P. Carter Hwy Hiltons VA 276/594-0676

Holiday Inn (Exit 7) 3005 Linden Dr Bristol Va 276/466-4100

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

Holston River Brewing Company 2621 Volunteer Pkwy Bristol TN

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

Jiggy Ray’s 610 E. Elk Ave Elizabethton 423/ 722-3410

The Damascus Brewery 32173 Government Rd. Damascus VA 276/ 469-1069

Kingsport Moose Lodge 935 Wilcox Drive #105. Kingsport 423/ 247-9109

Bone Fire Smokehouse at the Hardware 260 W Main St Abingdon Va 276/623-0037 Bristol’s Pickin’ Porch 620 State St Bristol 423/573-2262

David Thompson’s Produce 251 Highway 107 Jonesborough 423/913-8123

Model City Tap House 324 E Market St. Kingsport Northeast State Community College 2425 Highway 75 Blountville TN

KARAOKE

TUESDAY Karaoke w/ Absolute Entertainment Boomershine’s Pizza Karaoke w/ Sean Dawg House Tavern Karaoke -Numan’s *********************** WEDNESDAY Karaoke w/ Southern Sounds Karaoke American Legion Karaoke w/ Absolute Entertainment Smokey Bones - Johnson City Turn the Page Karaoke VFW Post 2108 - Johnson City *********************** THURSDAY Karaoke w/ Absolute Entertainment Macado’s - Kingsport Karaoke - Numan’s Karaoke w/ Absolute Entertainment CJ’s Sports Bar Karaoke Holiday Inn - Johnson City Karaoke - Jiggy Rays Pizzaria Karaoke w/ Absolute Entertainment Mellow Mushroom - Johnson City ***********************

Sleepy Owl Brewery 151 E. Main St. Kingsport 423/390-8476 Studio Brew 221 Moore Street Bristol VA 423 / 360-3258 Wellington’s Restaurant Carnegie Hotel 1216 W State of Franklin Rd Johnson City 423/979-6400 The Willow Tree Coffeehouse & Music Room 216 E Main St Johnson City Woodstone Deli 3500 Fort Henry Dr Kingsport 423/245-5424 Yee Haw Brewing Company 126 Buffalo St. Johnson City

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

17 theloaferonline.com | December 13, 2016

SPOTLIGHT DIRECTORY

Birthplace of Country Music Museum 520 Birthplace of Country Music Way Bristol

theloaferonline.com | December 13, 2016

I’M MY OWN

SANTA CLAUS

I’ve been in something of a curious situation for the past couple of Christmases. I have been the family gift getter, playing Santa Claus and navigating the shops for everyone--including myself.

Batteries Not Included

By Andy Ross aross@ theloaferonline.com

I suppose some of you reading this may be dismayed by this notion “But you know what you’re getting! Doesn’t that ruin it for you?” No, not really. This way I’m assured there won’t be disappointment on Christmas morning that I have to hide inside while trying to project joy. It all comes down to a couple of factors, the biggest one being my particular tastes in movies, dvds, and weird board games that can’t be found at Jon Q. Anywhere. I used to make a list with pictures and hand out to family. My birthday falls two weeks after Christmas and this list would cover both. I started doing this after the year three family members individually wound up getting me the exact same season set of “Alfred Hitchcock Presents,” the spare copies were gifted to other people. Sometimes the list would never get to the anniculiary members of the family and I’d get things I already had. “Oh, thanks. I’ve made it to 25 years of age and have NEVER heard ‘The White Album’! Wow-wee!” This year I did the bulk of the shopping for everyone. I think this is due to family covert operations. Dad not knowing Mom asked me to buy his, Mom not knowing that Dad asked me to buy hers. In some ways I suppose this makes me Christmas Oprah. I get to sit there knowing full well what everyone is getting. “Good Morning, and Merry Christmas. I’m glad you all could be here today. It’s a big day, y’all! Look under your seats. Open your gifts. You get a fleece jacket! And you get new slippers, and you’re all getting a Bath and Body Works Gift SEEEEEE EEEEEEEEEET!!!!!!!!!!!!!!” To add to this peculiarity, some of the immediate family doesn’t know I had a hand in acquiring my own gift. Enhancing this illusion, I sometimes give very Oscar worthy performances on Christmas Morn. I cry a little, then shout “It’s a Tickle Me Carlo Lombardi! Everything I’ve always wanted and more!” Sometimes I get a carried away. After opening my gift, I rush to my window and yell down to an adorable street urchin, “Oh, boy! Yes, you! The smart one! Take this farthing and buy the biggest goose you can at the meat shoppes! There’s an extra crown in it for you if you ‘urry!” The response to this from my family is usually “have you taken your medication yet?” We have a good time. Good times, y’all! Good times. Still, I sometimes wonder if it does ruin the fun of Christmas Gifting for me a bit. Then again, it keeps me from owning 900 copies of “The White Album.” See you next week.

his is a week for Full Moon, which Native Americans called the Cold Moon and Colonial settlers called the Yule Moon. Though moonlight seems bright, the Moon reflects only 17 per cent of the sunlight that strikes it—which is about like a lump of coal. The best meteor shower of the year, the Geminids, peak this Tuesday and Wednesday night at the worst time possible when the Moon is full phase. After midnight you might see between 5-10 bursting through the moonlight, instead of the 50-130 meteors an hour during moonless years. Tues. Dec. 13 Full Moon today is above Orion the Hunter and inside the borders of Taurus the Bull. The landscape is beautiful under the silvery moonlight, often creating surreal imagery. Wed. Dec. 14 In 1972, this was blast off day from the Moon for Apollo 17 astronauts Gene Cernan and Jack Schmitt. They linked up to the command module piloted in lunar orbit by astronaut Ron Evans. Their booty was about 250 pounds of rock and soil form the Moon. It is now 44 years since American footprints walked the chalky dust of the lunar surface.

19 Thurs. Dec. 15 The north constellations are highlighted by Cassiopeia the Queen, whose five brightest stars now look like an “M” branded in the sky. To the left is Polaris the North Star in Ursa Minor. Ursa Major is scrapping the northern horizon, the famous seven stars being called The Plough in Great Britain. Fri. Dec. 16 Before the Moon rises around 9 pm, there is three hour of darkness for the stars to play. In the evening twilight, planet Venus blazes away in the constellation Capricornus the Sea Goat while to the left is red Mars in Aquarius. Sat. Dec. 17 On this 1903 date in history on a beach at Kitty Hawk, NC, Orville Wright flew the airplane he and his brother Wilbur built in Dayton, Ohio. Sun. Dec. 18 Jupiter rises at 3 am in the east among the stars of Virgo, and it is a beautiful yellow beacon before the morning twilight drowns it out. Early morning risers see the stars that are visible in Spring evenings. Mon. Dec. 19 For that two brief hours of deep twilight and early evening, the Milky Way is visible standing straight up in the west between Vega, in Lyra the Harp, and Altair, in Aquila the Eagle. It is an interesting part of the sky as seen through any binoculars.

theloaferonline.com | December 13, 2016

THIS WEEK

SKIES

Celestial events in the skies for the week of Dec. 13-19, 2016, as compiled for The Loafer by Mark D. Marquette.

theloaferonline.com | December 13, 2016

ALLIED BRAD PITT IS BACK

Brad Pitt is a movie star plain and simple. Some actors are always excellent and are constantly nominated for awards, but don’t always draw throngs of fans to the theater, while other actors are both excellent and can draw crowds. Pitt has fallen in the movie star category since first making a splash in 1991’s “Thelma & Louise”.

Pop Life

By Ken Silvers ksilvers@ theloaferonline.com

Years, and many films later, Mr. Pitt is back in the new World War II drama “Allied” co-starring Marion Cotillard (“The Dark Knight Rises”). Pitt stars as Canadian intelligence officer Max Vatan, who travels to French Morocco and teams up with French Resistance fighter Marianne Beausejour (Cotillard) to assassinate the German ambassador. The two pose as a married couple and have to convince those around them in Casablanca they are a loving couple, due to being closely watched by a neighbor of Marianne’s who just happens to be married to a German officer. Before the arrival of Max, Marianne has been living in Casablanca and has gained the trust of the Germans stationed and living there, so she must continue the charade even more when her “husband” arrives. The two are seen in public together and are eventually invited to a party where they plan to carry out the assassination. The duo succeeds, and Max convinces Marianne to marry him and move to London, as the duo have unexpectedly fallen in love during their mission. Max and Marianne make it to London where they marry, settle down in Hampstead, and eventually have a child they name Anna. The movie then flashes forward a year as Max is altered by the Special Operations Executive that Marianne may be a German spy. Upon hearing the startling news, Max feels the story is a complete fabrication, but reluctantly agreed to take part in a “blue dye” operation set in motion by the SOE. Max is ordered to write down a fake intelligence report in full view of Marianne and then leave it lying around to see if she will report the message to the Germans. The really tough part of this operation is if Marianne is proven to be a spy, Max must execute her or be hanged for treason. While the SOE operation is in progress, Max begins his own private investigation in the hopes his wife will be proven innocent. At this point, I will reveal no more of the plot, as the ending is riveting, and needs to be left as a surprise if you plan on seeing the film. The film is directed by Robert Zemeckis (“Forrest Gump”), and he does an excellent of presenting the actors in the best light possible. The film is very “old Hollywood” in scope and style, yet still has a modern feel thanks to current special effects. Despite being set in the vastness of World War II, Zemeckis has given the film a very intimate feel, thanks in part to the effectiveness of his lead actors. Pitt and Cotillard very much own their respective roles, and have amazing screen chemistry. Films set during war time have many unpleasant moments, as they should, but this film still manages to have some light amidst the darkness. “Allied” is a quality film you need to add to your list if you enjoy films set during World War II. Rated R) *** 1/2

JERI GEORGE THE INTERVIEW

Mountain Movers

By Brian Bishop bbishop@ theloaferonline.com

f you have lived here for any length of time, this lady’s voice has been in your car, your home, your workplace and possibly even in your head if you exercise while listening to classic rock. Jeri George is undeniably one of the most recognized voices in our radio market.

middle of the night and I’m the only one in the room, I stand up! BRIAN: We share a common attitude that we really like it here and you have built your career in this market because of that. What is it about this region and the people that make you love it here so much? JERI: This is home to me. My parents were both from Kingsport, so when my Dad retired, we came back here to be near family. My parents used to go parking on a hill in Colonial Heights when they were younger and while visiting between moves, they went to check it out. There was a house sitting there for sale, so they called and bought it without even going inside, because of where it was I have had the honor of enjoying her friendship for located, and then rented it out until we came back more years than either of us will admit at this point. here to live. I love the mountains and the caring spirit Her heart and her personality are a part of the tradition of the people who live in this area. of our region and her family roots run deep here. If you BRIAN: Classic rock is truly the music of our generation. have a minute, here is the story behind a remarkable person How did you end up in radio and why have you chosen to stay and how she ended up with a remarkable career. at one station for so many years when most people in radio tend to BRIAN: Jeri, thanks for taking time to talk with me. Tell folks who don’t know move around throughout their career? you very well about where you grew up and how it shaped who you are. JERI: My friend, Bill Beason, was working nights at AM 16 WJSO and invited JERI: I grew up an Air Force brat, born in Mississippi and lived in Florida, me to visit while he was on the air. He made a tape of me, told me what to Massachusetts, Texas, Alaska, Germany and Michigan before moving to say, how to say it and made me sound really good, but I thought it was just Tennessee as a teenager. As you can imagine, I have the utmost respect for our military and pride in our country. If the National Anthem comes on in the

continued on page 23

theloaferonline.com | December 13, 2016

DOLLYWOOD'S

SMOKY MTN CHRISTMAS

hristmas is almost here! With only twelve days left of our favorite time of the year, we will no doubt be busy wrapping presents, cooking delicious dinners, and bringing down our Christmas decorations from the attic.

Appalachian Wanderers

By Jason & Daniel Worley jdworley@ theloaferonline.com

While it may seem that all our time is taken up between work and preparing for the influx of family members who will soon be crowding your home, sometimes you just need to take a break from all the hustle and bustle and spend an evening reliving favorite Christmas traditions. Our favorite is the almost weekly visits we make to Dollywood Theme Park during their Smoky Mountain Christmas event. Running from November all the way to January first, the annual holiday tradition sees the park decorated with over four million festive holiday lights. This is enough reason to visit in itself, as we have spent countless hours just wandering the park to marvel at the beautiful displays. On Showstreet and throughout the lower portion of the park, almost every building is lit up like the Griswolds’ house. Flickering butterflies line the walkways throughout Adventures in Imagination, while Timber Canyon is home to the Timber Canyon Festival of Lights. Here the park’s largest Christmas tree puts on a fabulous light show accompanied by a score of favorite Christmas Carols. One of our favorite areas has to be Jukebox Junction, where the storefronts are decked out in vintage C9 bulbs and rock-n-roll Christmas hits fill the air. While here you must stop by Lightning Rod, the park’s newest and best thrill ride. Throughout the past season it has had more downtime than up, but it appears that the park has finally worked out all the kinks on the world’s fastest wooden coaster. The launch directly up the lift hill still gets us every time. Night rides are out of this world, as the majority of the coaster races through the wooded hillsides outside the park’s boundary, so riders have no ideas what is coming next. If you brought the kids, Dollywood has fun areas with families just in mind! Holly Jolly Junction, located in Craftsmen’s Valley, gives everyone the chance to meet our favorite rednosed reindeer and the other characters from Rudolf! The kids can make their own cookies,

play some reindeer games, and have their picture taken inside a snow globe or with the adorable Bumble! Down in the Country Fair, Santa and his elves have set up shop in Santa Land! Children can create special Christmas crafts before meeting Santa himself in this holiday wonderland. Just keep in mind that this portion of the event ends December 23, as Santa has to get back to the North Pole before Christmas. Dollywood is best known for their great shows which play a starring role throughout Smoky Mountain Christmas. Classic shows such as ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas and O’ Holy Night return once again, as does a new and larger version of Christmas in the Smokies, now playing in the Celebrity Theater. Musical experiences await with nightly shows by The Kingdom Heirs and the a cappella group known as the Mistletones. Alas, we no longer get to see Dolly play the Ghost of Christmas Past in A Christmas Carol, but this year Dollywood rolls out a new take on a Christmas classic as It’s a Wonderful Life hits the stage. While we’ll miss Dolly’s hologram, the new performance is a great addition to the Christmas show lineup and sure to become a favorite with guests both young and old. Also new for this year is Parade of Many Colors, inspired by Dolly’s hit song and her new NBC movie, “Christmas of Many Colors: Circle of Love.” The new light-covered floats are beautiful and play a mix of classic Christmas songs with some of Dolly’s own numbers thrown in. Interactive characters stop along the way to say hi and speak with visitors. Best of all, Santa himself leads the festive band as they march through the streets. The parade begins at 8:00 P.M. every night and starts in the Village behind the carousel before heading through Rivertown Junction, past Market Square, down Showstreet, and finally passing by Dolly’s Chasing Rainbow Museum in Adventures in Imagination. It’s best to line up early, as the parade is extremely popular and the route fills up quickly. While you are enjoying the park, don’t be surprised if you catch the occasional whiff of smoke. The Gatlinburg fires came just a few hundred feet away from the park, and while some of the Dollywood Cabins were destroyed, the park we know and love was spared from any damage. While you enjoy the park, please remember those who have been touched by this tragedy and consider donating to Dolly’s The My People Fund. So far Dolly and thousands of others have raised over two million dollars to help those who are homeless as a result of the fires. For more information on how you can help, please visit DollywoodFoundation.org.

Colorful fountains light the Rivertown Lake as buildings are outlined in Market Square during Dollywood's Smoky Mountain Christmas.

for fun. The next day, while working at Red Pig BBQ, I got a call from Don Dale, the Program Director at WJSO and he offered me a full time job working overnights when the station got their license to stay on 24 hours a day. I was in broadcasting at ETSU and had taken every television class they offered, but knew nothing about radio. He said I had six months to learn, gave me a key to the station and after they signed off at dark, I would go in and learn how to run the equipment. I started working there full time at the age of 20, in October of 1979. One morning right before 6am while on the air, I got a call from Don Gibson, the Program Director at AM 79 WETB and he offered me a job working weekdays from noon-3pm making more money. I had never even met him, but I accepted the job and started working for him two weeks later. FM started taking over AM stations and WQUT was where I wanted to work, so I called the Program Director Jay Christian and asked him to critique my air checks to help me improve. I didn’t work for him, so he had no reason to be nice to me, and he wasn’t, but that’s how you learn and it really helped me. A year later, on April 2, 1983, I came to work at WQUT and never left. Over the years I’ve had offers to move to other markets but I love it where I’m at. BRIAN: Family is a huge part of life for everybody. I know you have a grandbaby you are so very proud of. Will you tell us a little about your family and why family matters to you so much? JERI: I come from a small family. Fortunately I still have my parents, Bill and Jean George and they live about two minutes away from my house. I’m 12 years older than my brother, Darby, who lives in Fort Mill South Carolina with his wife, Christy, and kids Bo and Hanna. Bo is 21 and Hanna will turn 21 right after Christmas, they were born in the same year. My daughter Amber Rae lives five minutes away with my grandson, Lake Clendenin and his dad, Michael. Lake is only two years old but it seems like he has been around forever. He has been a blessing to our family! BRIAN: I always turn you on during midday on WQUT because of the music and because it is like visiting with a dear friend to listen to you, John and the other DJ’s on there. How can people who might not already listen find WQUT on the dial and learn more online? JERI: You can hear me weekdays from 10am-3pm at 101.5 FM or you can listen online at wqut.com. Please tune me in!

MASH-UP

LOVE The Casual Word

By Langley Shazor Follow Langley at TheCasualWord

As I lay me down to sleep I pray the Lord, my soul to keep And if I die before I wake I pray the Lord my soul to take.... Be he may have to search for it. Where has it gone? Far, far away from here. To Never Never land? I never want to leave Since I’m a Toys-r-us kid, I never want to grow up I only want to grow old And share the same space time continuum Paradox. The shortest distance between two points; a straight line? No, zero. Sharing the same place, occupying the same space simultaneously. The truth is out there. And the truth is, there is no place like home.

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continued from page 21

ABCs

theloaferonline.com | December 13, 2016

A is for Abingdon Olive Oil

G is for Gifts Galore from Macâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Medicine Mart

B is for Baked with love at Another Touch Bakery

H is for Heavenly Stitches

C is for Christmas Cocktails with Jonesborough Wine & Spirits

I is for iReverse Home Loans

theloaferonline.com | December 13, 2016

Christmas

D is for Dalton Direct Carpets

J is for Johnnyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Shoe Store

E is for Express Oil Change

K is for Kingsport Piranhas

F is for Family Medicine at Horizon Family Medicine

L is for Liquor & wine at Parkway Discount Wine & Liquor

theloaferonline.com | December 13, 2016

ABCs Christmas O is for Old Time Virginia Homes

U is for Uncle Samâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Loan Office

P is for Pit Row Wine & Liquor

V is for Victoria at West Main Antiques

Q is for Quickway Printing

W is for Washington Co. Co-op

R is for Rainbow Motors

X is for Xtreme Lashes by Sher Extensions

theloaferonline.com | December 13, 2016

N is for New looks begin at Studio 33

M is for Mulligansâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Gaming

S is for Sextonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Wrecker Service & Towing

Y is for you should be Stellar!

T is for Tan Tanks are US! Admiral Propane

Z is for Zoom on up and see the wolves! Bays Mountain Park

theloaferonline.com | December 13, 2016

Answers on page 30

Sammy is a seven month old male. He is neutered and up to date on all vaccines. A little shy but very sweet and loving!

Baby Doll is a 9 month old female. She is spayed and up to date on all vaccines. A playful and fun kitty!

The Bridge Home has an ongoing aluminum can can collection in front of the shelter at 2061 Hwy 75 in Blountville,TN 37617. The cans are collected by a volunteer and the money from the aluminum goes towards badly needed food and supplies for the animals The Bridge Home No Kill Animal Rescue has started a pet food pantry for people that have had financial hardships because of job loss or medical problems and are struggling to feed their pet. They can come by the shelter and get cat or dog food to get through the tough time. Donations can be sent to The Bridge Home Shelter PO Box 654 Blountville, TN 37617 Every animal in their care is spayed or neutered and fully vaccinated before being adopted. Being a non profit the shelter is funded entirely by membership dues and private donations. They always need volunteers or monetary donations.

Other always needed items:pet food, cat litter & cat toys dog treats & dog toys,paper towels, cleaners, office supplies,Purina weight circles. Phone: 423.239.5237 Hours are Mon-Fri 12pm-6pm Sat 12pm-3pm and Sun 2pm-4pm. Website is www. bridgehomerescue@gmail.com or like them on Facebook: www. Facebook.com/bridgehome

theloaferonline.com | December 13, 2016

PETS

OF THE WEEK

theloaferonline.com | December 13, 2016

THINGS TO DO 12 Days of Christmas Programs Senior Services at Memorial Park Community Center, 510 Bert St., will offer Twelve Days of Christmas programs for ages 50+. All programs are free. For every program attended, participants will be entered in a chance to win gift cards.

• Dec. 12 – Herbs for Arthritis, 11 a.m. • Dec. 13 – Dig Into History, 11 a.m. • Dec. 14 – Coloring Class, 1 p.m. • Dec. 15 – Heart Healthy Bingo, 11 a.m. • Dec. 16 – Pickleball, 8-11:30 a.m.

Please call (423)434-6237 for more information. Saint Paul’s Christmas Dinner Saint Paul’s Episcopal Church in Kingsport will host its annual Christmas Day dinner for anyone in the community wanting to enjoy a festive meal with others. Turkey, dressing and all the trimmings are provided by

are offered at 6:30 and during the break. The dance goes from 7:0010:00 pm and cost is only $6.00. For additional information call 423-943-4190. If you would like to receive a monthly email listing of local dances simply send an email request to tricitiesdanceinfo@ gmail.com.

Holston Valley Medical Center, with home-baked desserts made by Saint Paul’s parishioners. The meal is served from 3 – 5 pm on Dec. 25 in the church parish hall on the corner of Watauga St. and Emmanuel Episcopal Church Ravine Rd. There is no charge to 36th Annual Christmas Dinner attend, and all are welcome. Emmanuel Episcopal Church will once again open its doors to the community for the Annual Here’s how to take a refreshing Christmas Dinner. Emmanuel break from the Christmas has welcomed the community to Shopping Rush.... this event for 35 years. This year The “Limited Edition” band the Christmas celebration will be will be playing our favorite fun Sunday, December 25 from 4:00dance music on the 4th Friday 6:00 pm, 700 Cumberland Street, of this month, December 23rd, Bristol, Virginia, and will include at the Jonesborough Visitors all the traditional holiday dinner Center located at 117 Boone trimmings. St. If you have never visited this Reservations are not necessary dance, this is the one you won’t and there is no fee for the dinner. want to miss! While it is billed Just bring your family and friends as a Ballroom Dance, a variety and some holiday spirit to share. of music is played from the We welcome everyone to partake 50’s, 60’s and 70’s that provides in the joy of Christmas as we enjoyable dance opportunities share a wonderful meal and a for everyone...can you still do the fun-filled evening of fellowship, Twist? Also, Line Dance Sessions entertainment, and caroling. For additional information please contact Emmanuel Episcopal Church at 276-6699488 or emmanuelbristol@gmail. com. Gray Fossil Site Events Tues, Dec 6th - Sat, Jan 1st Curious Coal

Celebrate Miner’s Day by learning about the link between coal and fossils. Get an up close and personal look by examining coal specimens and core samples. If you have any questions on these or other programs, please call (423) 439-3662.

a free course on Finding Mindfulness Through Meditation for ages 12 and older on Tuesdays beginning Jan. 10. From 3:30-5 p.m., participants will have a safe, comfortable space to meditate. Please register in person at Memorial Park Community Center, Monday through Friday, 7 a.m.-9 p.m., and Saturday, 9 a.m.Johnson City Public Library 5 p.m. For more information, host Music Programs The Johnson City Public Library please call (423)434-5749. will host several opportunities for holiday music enjoyment during the month of December. The Towne Acres Children’s Choir will perform Wednesday, December 14 at 11:30 a.m. following our regular Preschool Storytime for three to five year olds at 11:00 a.m. The final performance will conclude with hammered dulcimer music played by Ann Francis Freeman Monday, December 19 at 6:00 p.m. Ms. Freeman will entertain patrons with traditional holiday music steeped in the Appalachian Mountains. All music will be presented around the Christmas tree on the second floor in the Buffalo Mountain Room and is open to the public. For more information about these free programs call 423-4344458. MPCC to offer Finding Mindfulness Through Meditation class

Memorial Park Community Center, 510 Bert St., will offer

Cryptogram: A diplomat these days is nothing but a head waiter who is allowed to sit down occasionally. Drop Quote: "Sentiment is intellectualized emotion; emotion precipitated, as it were, in pretty crystals by the fancy."

A CHRISTMAS MEDITATION

one of my nominees for the best book of 2016 (see my forthcoming column)-LOVE FOR SALE: POP MUSIC IN AMERICA-David Hajdu considers the fate of recorded music in a digital world. Although digital music is recorded, the way it is possessed differs remarkably from the ways things were "back in the day" when we lined our shelves with LPs and carried around Walkmans filled with plastic cassettes that gave us no more than twenty musical selections.

Kellyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Place

By Jim Kelly since 1989 jkelly@ theloaferonline.com

Although music on the radio was free, we still associated it with the physical object from which it emanated--be it a portable transistor radio or the one found in our cars. And radio (in those pre-Sirius days) put us at the mercy of what the DJ wanted to play and when he or she wanted to play it. And, those annoying DJs all-too-often made it their practice to talk over the instrumental introductions to hit songs--a good example being "A Whiter Shade of Pale." This practice continues with satellite radio channels that still feature DJs, generally those who are recycled from the early days of MTV, seeing no benefit in giving their listeners the pleasure of listening to these instrumental introductions. But I digress. In his very thought-provoking chapter, "Digitation: The Immaterial World," Hajdu sees a shift from the pride that went with owning records and tapes to our current interest in having access to digital streaming services that redefine what it means to "own" our own music. "For all the material benefits of ownership," Hadju writes, "a great many if not most music lovers are still more interested in having access to music than in having music in their possession." I have to include myself in this group, having become quite attached to my streaming services, both for music and movies. Because I am very album-oriented in my musical interests, I especially enjoy services like AppleMusic and GooglePlay. I also enjoy services like Pandora, although they don't give me the ability to curate my favorite music, only my favorite types of music. But it all comes out the same--I am becoming more of a person who wants access rather than possession of my music. When it comes to books and movies, however, I still like to possess the physical objects (printed books, DVDs, and BluRays). This doesn't mean, of course, that I don't also enjoy streaming and digital book libraries. Here I am reminded of an observation by the late Lester Bangs--the pop music journalist who belongs right up there with Hemingway, Steinbeck, Chandler, and Fitzgerald in the esteemed pantheon of American literature (as his writing style has been described, "Rock 'n' Roll as literature, and

literature as Rock 'n' Roll"). Writing, in 1972, about his recent purchase of the multi-record box set of "Chicago At Carnegie Hall, Volumes I, II, III, and IV," Bangs tells us that "I like this album because it's on Columbia. I trust them, I believe in their product, because Columbia is the General Motors of the record industry." And why is this so? "They consistently come up with the best of everything: best logo, best lettering in artists' names and album titles, best photography, best cardboard." After rhapsodizing about the virtues of the parent company, Bangs tackles the album itself. "Not only does the album weigh in at 3.23 pounds, but it's so jam packed with sounds that it's got grooves wide enough to satisfy even the most picayune of connoisseurs. Anybody that tells me it's not the heaviest album of the year just doesn't know his math." After all this comes his confession: "Loving Chicago at Carnegie Hall as much as I do, though, I still don't play it very often. In fact, I've only played it once since I got it, and never intend to play any of it again. But then, I don't really have to; it is sufficient unto itself, an existing entity, and playing it too much would only put smudges and scratches on its pristine surfaces." For Bangs, just knowing he possessed the album was enough. Listening to it was beside the point. I wonder how many of your possessions do you feel the same way about? Maybe that's why I am surrounded by my books, CDs and DVDs. Hajdu reminds us that "Digital data, in the way most of us tend to conceive of it, is a kind of nothingness, and we attach the appropriate value to it: none." Perhaps that is what explains our preference for access rather than possession. Turning the clock back to the days of vinyl (when there was no real alternative, like today when vinyl has reappeared as a nostalgic trinket), possession a 45 of the latest Beatles' single was a real status symbol, a visible message that you belonged to a very special group. Today, there is not much distinction in telling someone you have access to the newest Charlie Puth song on Spotify. Of course, when I was a member of the original vinyl generation and learning what to buy by listening to what was playing on my local radio station, I probably only experienced three or four new songs a week. Today, the choices are virtually unlimited, thanks to streaming and instantaneous 24/7 access. I can not only listen to every album I once owned (I haven't tried to access that huge Chicago album yet), but can also sample songs from all over the globe. What was once a dream is now a commonplace reality. So, I guess I am happy we have made the transition from possession to access. As you plan your Christmas shopping excursions, you might want to ask yourself if that special someone on your list prefers possessing to accessing. Just one more thing to complicate the process. Just remember that gift cards always work. See you next week with more Christmas cheer.

31 theloaferonline.com | December 13, 2016

Is Access More Important Than Possession?

theloaferonline.com | December 13, 2016