The Loafer February 6th by The Loafer

theloaferonline.com | February 6, 2018

on the cover

Publisher Luci Tate Editor Graphic Arts Director Don Sprinkle Cover Design Bill May Advertising Patti Barr Paul Kavanaugh Janie Jarvis Carolyn Kestner Office Coordinator Amanda Lane Social Media Manager Jon Lester

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!

18 Stargazer Celebrating 60 Years of NASA Satellites 19 Skies This Week 20 Batteries Not Included I Am The Hyrule Champion 23 Pop Life Maze Runner: The Death Cure 24 Appalachian Wanderers Ft. Zachary Taylor State Park 25 Mountain Movers The Don Raines Interview 27 The Casual Word Declaration 28 Puzzle Page 31 Kelly’s Place It's Only Words

columns & reviews

Contributing Staff Jim Kelly Andy Ross Ken Silvers Mark Marquette Brian Bishop Daniel Worley Jason Worley Langley Shazor Jon Lester Lee Sowers

your week’s line-up

I am HOME

Volume 32 • Issue #10

4 5 7 7 8 9 10 12 13 14 15 16 21 22 22 26 29 30

I Am Home UVa-Wise Bluegrass Band Spank to the Future @ HBRC And the Grammy Goes To..... Animation meets Reality Valentine's Dinner & Swing Dance Valentine's For Dummies Phil's Dream Pit Celebrates 10 Years Music & Storytelling Spring Train Excursion Glenn Miller Orchestra Spotlight Johnson City - One of Best Places to Live Chocolate Fest Wyldeheart @ Country Club Paramount Partners Pets Of The Week Things To Do

theloaferonline.com | February 6, 2018

HOME m a I T

I Am Home, a compelling theater piece created from the stories of the people of Jonesborough’s past and present, and featuring an incredible cast of seventy community members, comes back home to perform at the McKinney Center beginning February 23.

he play features stories of Jonesborough, and the courage, strength, humor, and tenacity of its people, in this play made up of dozens of vignettes, adapted from oral histories that were gathered over a year-long process. The current cast is comprised of actors of all ages, and from many diverse backgrounds. Many of the adult actors have commented on what an important experience it is for them to be playing a role of someone from their own community- a real person, who may be sitting in the audience when the show is presented. Dana Kehs, an actor in the show, as well as the show’s costumer, plays the role of Virginia Kennedy, and said, “I feel honored to play Mrs. Kennedy, and help tell the story of the work she and her husband have done for Jonesborough. It is incredible to be in a play that is so real, that the person you’re playing might show up that night at the performance.” The stories in the play are taken from oral histories, and are all based on true events, or, as playwright Jules Corriere likes to say, “They started out true.” The vignettes cover a wide range of time periods, to include Jonesborough’s famed Buffalo Soldier, Alfred Martin Rhea, to Sidney Smallwoood’s recollections from his grandmother, who was a little girl during the Civil War, to Alfred Greenlee’s accounts of Jonesborough’s railroad days, life growing up on Depot Street, and his role in the integration movement of the Town’s schools. Vignettes about the migrant march, the coming of electricity and the effect it had on families out in the country, and memories about coming to town for the first time, and visiting beloved businesses such as Lavender Grocery, Hoss McCall’s and Jarman Shoes, and of course, the Jackson Theatre, all help to paint a picture of the Town’s continued changes, growth, and perseverance. All of these stories also speak to the important sense of what it means to find “home” in Jonesborough. The play was originally performed in the McKinney Center back in 2011 before it was renovated, as a project initiated by the International Storytelling Center, and later adopted by the Town of Jonesborough. The original intent of the play was to embrace the Town’s legacy of storytelling by telling its own story. Jimmy Neil Smith, founder of the National Storytelling Festival, brought in Community Performance International artists Dr. Richard Owen Geer, Jules Corriere, and Iega Jeff, to develop a unique play that told Jonesborough’s fascinating story. Composer and lyricist Heather McCluskey and her son, composer Brett McCluskey, were brought in to create five original songs for the show. After spending a year collecting oral stories from local community members such as Alfred Greenlee, Sidney Smallwood, Nancy Robinson, Sue Henley and nearly eighty others, the play was crafted as a way to bring people together through their shared stories, highlight the important stories of the people who helped shape the community, and provide a sense of pride in community, all while strengthening neighborhood bonds, as the large cast of actors and crew worked together to bring the show alive. The original show proved its purpose, creating a strong community among the participants that has since radiated out in the community in many ways, including the creation of the Yarn Exchange Radio Show, the story-based radio show now in its seventh season. The McKinney Center, now fully restored, is welcoming the play to be performed back in its original home. Stage manager and founding Yarn Exchange member Phyllis Fabozzi stated, “I think it is important that we’re performing at the McKinney Center again. This is where we started, and what this place has become now is really powerful.” Fabozzi is likely speaking to the fact that the building, whose story is featured in the play, was once a building meant to separate the community, as it served as the African American school from 1940-1965 when integration was complete. Now, the building serves to bring people together, through storytelling and the arts. The show will run February 23, 24, 25 and March 2, 3, 4. Performance times will be Fridays at 7:30 PM, Saturdays at 2:00pm and 7:30pm, and Sundays at 2:00pm. Tickets are $14 general admission, $12 for seniors and students. Special rates are also available for groups of 15 or more. To purchase tickets or for more information, call the Historic Jonesborough Visitors Center at 423-753-1010 or online at jonesborough.com/tickets.

UVa-Wise Bluegrass Band

he Crooked Road: Virginia’s Heritage Music Trail presents the UVa-Wise Bluegrass Band in concert on Thursday, February 8th from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. at Heartwood in Abingdon, VA. This concert is part of The Crooked Road Music Series at Heartwood. The UVa-Wise Bluegrass Band had humble beginnings. During the concluding performance by the East Tennessee State University Bluegrass Band as part of the UVa-Wise 50th anniversary celebration, some questioned why the college did not have a bluegrass band of its own. Richard Galyean, the college’s band director and instructor of music, decided that night that there would be a bluegrass band in the near future. A few short years later, with only a few students, the band began. They played several concerts and enjoyed a receptive audience. The next year, UVa-Wise Guitar Instructor Chris Rose was brought in to oversee the ensemble, and the group grew by leaps and bounds. In 2016 the group recorded their first full length CD “Pass It On” which received

Featured at Heartwood

theloaferonline.com | February 6, 2018

Photo credit: Kathy Still

great reviews and was featured on several radio programs. In May of 2017 the band attended and performed for the Transatlantic Dialogue Conference in Luxembourg. The group played several concerts and toured the American Embassy. In 2018 the group added, eleven year old banjo player, Jacob Sturgill. Rose states “He is an honorary member or the Fifth Beatle if you will”. The Crooked Road Music Series takes place each Thursday at Heartwood. The series features youth artists each 2nd Thursday along with open jams on the 1st, 3rd, 4th (and 5th) Thursdays to showcase Southwest Virginia performers. The Crooked Road Music Series is sponsored by Heartwood, Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development, Virginia Commission for the Arts and the National Endowment for the Arts. More information can be found at The Crooked Road website, www. thecrookedroad.org, and at www.heartwoodvirginia.org. For additional information, please call (276) 492-2409 or email: admin@thecrookedroad.org.

theloaferonline.com | February 6, 2018

SPANK

102.7 and Holston River Brewing Present By Paul Kavanaugh

to the Future 80’s Party

And the GRAMMY

Goes To.....

es it’s true – SPANK is returning to the Brewery! It all happens Friday, Feb. 9th at 8pm, so get there early and have some good grub and a couple of good cold ones and then get ready for the “Spanking”. Of course, "Spanking” is how Kevin Doolittle and Dale Reed, the band’s founders, describe the jaw dropping experience the musicians strive to deliver to audiences each time the band performs their unique arrangements of rock favorites. (What did you think he meant by spanking??...Get your mind out of the gutter!) Reed and Doolittle first performed together in the ‘90s, and reunited again in 2013, deciding to form SPANK the band to return to their Rock & Roll roots. Dale recruited top saxophonist James Drury (Jimmie D.) and bassist Robert Sherber to complete the collective of musicians who deliver a fun, unique, partyrock experience. Just what we need for an 80’s Night. So get dressed up and bring your best funky moves out to the Brewery and let’s see what happens!

East Tennessee State University congratulates alumni Brent Burke and Hunter Berry and all members of Rhonda Vincent and The Rage, which took home a Grammy Award for Best Bluegrass Album during the 60th annual Grammy Awards show on Jan. 28. The band’s album “All the Rage – In Concert, Volume One [Live]” tied with “Laws of Gravity” by The Infamous Stringdusters for first place in the Best Bluegrass Album category. Burke and Berry are both former students of the Bluegrass, Old Time and Country Music Studies program in ETSU’s Department of Appalachian Studies. Burke, who plays dobro with Rhonda Vincent and The Rage, was the first graduate to receive the bachelor’s degree in Bluegrass, Old Time and Country Music Studies at ETSU, and Berry, the band’s fiddle player, serves as an adjunct faculty member in the program. In addition, Ladysmith Black Mambazo took home the Best World Music Album award for “Shaka Zulu Revisited: 30th Anniversary Celebration.” That album was mixed and mastered by Martin Walters, a lecturer in Jazz Studies in the ETSU Department of Music and also a lecturer in the Department of Media and Communication.

theloaferonline.com | February 6, 2018

Story of Swazi girl ‘Liyana’ interweaves hardships, hope for future

ANIMATION meets REALITY

theloaferonline.com | February 6, 2018

re-teen Liyana, who lives in a thatched hut in Swaziland, loses both parents to AIDS and decides to begin a sojourn across the small South African country – with only her bull sidekick and her bravery – to rescue her kidnapped twin brothers. Along the way, she crosses crocodile-infested waters, navigates the unknown wilderness and savors a swim, the sunrise and the sweetness of a juicy mango. Liyana’s story is an original tale born in the imaginations of five orphaned children in the Kingdom of Swaziland. The world that the children imagine for Liyana is brought to life in the film Liyana in an innovative style, weaving documentary scenes with the five young storytellers together with an animated adventure created by Nigerian artist Shofela Coker. On Monday, Feb. 12, at 7 p.m. in East Tennessee State University’s Martha Street Culp Auditorium, Mary B. Martin School of the Arts at ETSU will present a screening of the awardwinning Liyana as part of the South Arts Southern Circuit Tour of Independent Filmmakers. The screening is free and open to the public and will be followed by a Q&A and reception with filmmakers Amanda and Aaron Kopp. Liyana is the brainchild of Aaron Kopp, a native of Swaziland, and photographer/visual artist Amanda Kopp. The film took more than eight years of research, shooting, funding, editing, composing and animating, says co-director/producer Amanda. Aaron Kopp calls it “a love letter to my childhood in that beautiful African Kingdom.” The Kopps filmed these boys at their orphanage home as they participated in a workshop led by South African author and storyteller Gcina Mhlophe. “The real-life kids are such amazing storytellers,” Amanda Kopp says. “Their ideas for Liyana's world were described with such vitality, she became such a real character to us all!” As the young storytellers move their fictional character forward through trial and temptation, the film periodically returns to intimate documentary scenes of the children’s lives in Swaziland — nightly rituals, herding cattle, feeding pigs and a trip to a clinic for an HIV test. These intertwining narrative strands work together to draw connections between Liyana and the children. As the real and imagined worlds begin to converge, the children must choose what kind of story they will tell – in fiction, and in their own lives. “The use of Liyana, a fictional character created by the children, allows them a way to express both the darkest and brightest parts of who they are,” Amanda Kopp says. “And in the process, they take us on a wild/funny/sad/epic journey.” And eventually, the line between fiction and reality begins to blur. Intertwining just the right balance of animated story and documentary was one of the most challenging parts of the eight-year process, Aaron Kopp says. Aligning just the right combination of collaborators was also a process. Animation artist Coker and composer Philip Miller, from South Africa, headline an international team of co-producers and editors. The main purpose of the film, say the Kopps, is to enchant, entertain and celebrate – the human spirit, the creative spirit and the power of storytelling. “This is not a movie about AIDs,” says the Sunday Times. “There are no victims in this movie, only the brave and the bold. Whether it be the real-life children climbing trees to scoff ripe mangos or the fictional Liyana crossing a crocodileinfested river with her companion the bull, the parallel narratives demonstrate nothing other than abiding courage and eternal hope.” “Liyana aims to encourage young people to make their voices heard,” says Variety, “and to unite their communities as they look for world-changing solutions within themselves.” As he watched the young storytellers on film, Coker found himself inspired by their personalities and ingenuity. “Throughout the course of the project, Liyana has become as real to me as my own childhood, and I hope she and the kids in the film inspire many people around the world.” For more information on Liyana, visit www. liyanathemovie.com. For information about the film or ETSU Mary B. Martin School of the Arts, call 423-439-TKTS (8587) or visit www.etsu.edu/martin.

Valentine's Dinner and Swing Dance

theloaferonline.com | February 6, 2018

he Tusculum College Pioneer Jazz Band will host a Valentine’s Day Dinner/Swing Dance benefit on Tuesday, Feb. 13, at the General Morgan Inn, beginning at 6:30 p.m. The event includes dinner and a performance by the Pioneer Jazz Band, along with special guests. The event is a fundraiser to raise money for much-needed equipment for the entire Tusculum band program, according to David A. Price, director of music at Tusculum College. “This will be our fifth year for this event and it has proven to be a popular and enjoyable way to celebrate Valentine’s Day,” said Price. “Each year we have had tremendous feedback on the quality of the food, as well as the fun of dancing the night away to the sounds of jazz standards. This year, we are even planning some special fun to celebrate Mardi Gras as well.” Ticket prices for the event are $55 per person or $400 for a table of eight guests. Ticket or table purchases include dance tickets, free dance lessons, an opening reception, dinner and a special dessert. Please call in advance to request a vegetarian substitution. A cash bar will be available. In preparation for the event, dance lessons will be provided at the Chalmers Conference Center in Niswonger Commons on the Tusculum campus for two evenings by Robin Beal. Dance lesson dates are January 30 and February 6. The lessons are free to anyone that has tickets for the event. Dance lessons without event tickets are $10 per person. Tickets are available for purchase by contacting Price at 423-636-7303 or emailing daprice@tusculum.edu. Special table reservations are available for larger group seating by contacting Price.

theloaferonline.com | February 6, 2018

DON'T Be That GUY V

Gift Ideas

It Doesn't Have to be Flowers Enchanted Florist Ad on page 9

By Angela Shelton

alentine's Day is associated with giving a symbol of love to your partner, but many people have a difficult time deciding what to give that special someone. We are all bombarded with ads for everything from chocolates and roses to concerts and clothing as being appropriate gifts for the day. And we have heard of gifting gone wrong... the woman who gave all kinds of hints for a watch who instead received a skillet (yes, I know her). Or the man who flat out said he wanted a nice picture of his wife and kids to carry in his wallet and phone, but who instead received mud flaps for his truck. So how do you know what to get? You have to watch and listen and be creative! All year long our partners tell, without realizing it, the things that would make nice gifts for them. If you are stuck and have no idea what to give this year, sit back, relax, and think about what your Valentine does, likes, and talks about. Here are some tips to help you not be "that guy" who gives the wrong thing. Think about what your loved one likes to do in their spare time. Does he like action movies? Maybe movie tickets and a good home-cooked dinner are a perfect gift. Listen to what they talk about. Does she comment on tulips in the Spring? They are already out on the shelves. Does he always tell you what happened on Game of Thrones? Get him a boxed set or a subscription to Netflix. Does she take care of everyone but not herself? Pamper her with a gift package of a gift certificates for a spa facial, massage, and manicure. Is she already a patient at a medical spa? Call them and let them customize a package of the services and products she loves. Think about what first attracted you to them. Was it her eyes? Give her an eye care product and a note that you love her green eyes. Was it his aftershave that he hasn't worn in years? Give him a bottle of it and tell him how it makes you feel. Talk to your sweetheart's friends to get ideas for simple, sentimental gifts. Often, friends will know exactly what you need to do!

Chocolate Grenade Cornacopia

Ad on page 14

Pottery Pigs $20

Brixey Studios Ad on page 6

Cherie's Boutique Ad on page 9

$20% Off

Dècor Exchange Ad on page 6

Tree Necklace Locally made

Whether you wait til the last day, or you want to shop ahead… let us give you some ideas to save you some time. Be it male or female gift, I’m sure you can find something in this week’s Loafer that will make your beloved say “WOW”.

$22

Jewelry

Decorative Handmade Pillows

$45

14% Off Red Items

Cindy Saadeh Gallery Ad on page 14

Let Her Choose Hair or Body

Results Salon & Spa Ad on page 6

Austin Springs Spa Do it together with a couples massage $110 - Ad on page 26

Lash Extensions Just Flirtin' Set

$195

Sher Extensions Ad on page 9

Kiln Time Do something together at Kil’n Time Ceramic Studio Starting at $20 - Ad on page 7

No lady will be upset when you hand her glo minerals

Take him/her for a romantic night away at General Morgan Inn Rooms starting at $145 - Ad on page 2 or Holiday Inn Bristol Rooms starting at $89.00 - Ad on page 14 Mr. K’s Used Books Curl up and read a good book together Find one at Mr.K’s Used Books & More Ad on page 13 Barter Theatre Go see an awesome play before or after dinner. Ummmm Yes Please! Ad on page 19

$30 and up

Changes Med Spa Ad on page 2

VIP Card

Includes 5 Field Passes & 5% Off all Paint Purchases and more! Only $50 The Alternative Sport Ad on page 13

St. Anne’s BINGO9 Scream B-I-N-G-O together. Surely to be a great time of fun and laughter. Ad on page 9

Where to dine on Valentine’s?

Bone Fire - Ad on page 12 Go for a little drive to Abingdon and checkout the winner of Best BBQ in SW VA. Brooklyn Grill - Ad on page 15 Whether your taste be Steak, Seafood or Pasta, you can find a plate that delights. Phil’s Dream Pit - Ad on page 20 Nothing says “I Love You” Like the best plate of BBQ Valentino’s - Ad on page 15 Is giving Two Meals and Drinks for under $20 Valentino’s near King College Dolly’s Diner - Ad on page 6 Offering 2 sirloins, 2 potatoes, 2 salads and 2 desserts for $17.99 Take it Home, Pick up a movie and make it an evening Mid City Grill - Ad on page 20 This is a perfect stop for the fresh made desserts for that special someone

She’ll be on CLOUD NINE

with these ideas on Valentine’s About Face Aesthetics Bank her some Botox . She will love you forever. Ad on page 9 ETSU Med Spa Grab him/her a gift certificate and let em choose for themselves from various services. Ad on page 21

Wanna Wine on Valentine?

Or maybe just a cocktail or beer… maybe even a little dancing? Patronize Country Club Bar & Grill in Bristol, Woodstone Deli in Kingsport or Holston River Brewing Co off the Bristol Highway. All are great places to end your evening.

Simply Nails Take her for a mani or pedi Ad on page 15 Wanna go the Healthy Route? What about a Gift Card to Natural Foods Market Ad on page 12

Surprise her, send flowers to her office Pen's Floral Ad on page 6

theloaferonline.com | February 6, 2018

Make a B-Line with your Valentine and enjoy some things together....

theloaferonline.com | February 6, 2018

Phil's Dream Pit S Celebrating 10 years

aturday Feb 10th, 11-7, Phil’s Dream Pit, 534 Eastern Star Rd, Kingsport, exit 10, off I-26, will be celebrating 10 years of serving great barbeque to great people. The week of Feb 6-10, bring in a canned good and receive 10% off your total bill. On Sat Feb 10, we will give 10% off everyone’s total bill. Bring in a canned good on Saturday as well and we will give an additional 10% off your total bill. In addition, we will be donating 10% of total sales to Second Harvest Food Bank, along with all the canned goods. Meta’s Cake Therapy will be serving delicious home baked cupcakes. The Tom Taylor Sports Show will also be live on Saturday Feb 10. Phil’s Dream Pit has been blessed to serve the Tri-Cities area great barbeque. Our awesome customers are the reason we have been in business and stayed in business these last ten years. We cannot express how much we appreciate everyone that walks through the front door. Phil’s Dream Pit opened in February 2008, in a location many felt was doomed. The only restaurant at the Eastern Star exit, it turned into a destination. Phil is very particular that his bbq be consistent and flavorful. Customers have found that to be a truth. Phil’s Dream Pit offers hickory smoked meats including; pulled Pork, pulled Chicken, ½ chickens, beef brisket, pork baby back ribs (both sweet and dry rub), pork wings, sliced turkey, all beef hot dogs, sausage and jalapeno cheddar dogs. In the wintry weather brisket chili and Mexican cornbread are also on the menu. Home made sides include cole slaw, potato salad, macaroni salad, baked beans and hash brown casserole. If you have any room left for dessert; banana pudding, blueberry dream, brownie dream and cookies. Phil’s Dream Pit, 534 Eastern Star Rd, Kingsport, TN exit 10 off I-26. 423-349-6437. Hours are Tue-Sat 11-7. Website, philsdreampit@aol.com, has Eat in, Take Out and Catering Menus. For more information, contact philsdreampit@aol.com, or Dianna Pipkin 423/948-9166

Music & Storytelling

he Appalachian Men’s Ensemble (AMEn) will present a concert titled “Echoes of the British Isles” on Friday, February 9, 7:30 p.m. at Munsey Memorial United Methodist, 201 S Roan St, Johnson City, and on Sunday, February 11, 3:00 p.m. at First Broad Street United Methodist Church, 100 E Church Circle, Kingsport. The concert will feature many familiar songs from the British Isles, such as “Loch Lomond,” “Be Thou My Vision,” and “What Shall We Do With a Drunken Sailor?” Local writer, Andrew Ford, will provide narrative between the songs that will include the origin of the music and stories of the people who brought these songs from the British Isles to Appalachia. The music and storytelling will explore Appalachia’s deep cultural roots in the British Isles. “Music is a unique connection between our ancestors and modern society. These songs that many of us know and love here in Appalachia are also sung in the British Isles. The music connects us to our common heritage,” says artistic director, Alan Stevens. “Andrew Ford has prepared an intriguing narrative that ties the past and the present together. Every AMEn concert is unique, but this is definitely something we have never attempted before.” AMEn is an all-male vocal ensemble of auditioned voices from throughout the greater TriCities area. The group is dedicated to performing a wide range of choral repertoire – both sacred and secular – from the late Middles Ages to the present. AMEn is one of the few male choral ensembles of its size to perform music of such a demanding caliber with a limited rehearsal schedule. The ensemble was founded in the fall of 2013 and has quickly gained popularity in the region. Dr. Alan Stevens, the Artistic Director, is also the Associate Director of Choral Activities at East Tennessee State University. Concert admission is on a donation basis (suggested at $10 for adults and $5 for students). For more information, contact AMEn at AppalachianMensEnsemble@gmail.com. Singers interested in joining the ensemble should contact the chorus manager at the same email. The Appalachian Men’s Ensemble is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Concert updates and additional information about AMEn can be found at www.AppMensEnsemble.org or on their Facebook page www.Facebook.com/AMEnEnsemble

theloaferonline.com | January 23, 2017

theloaferonline.com | February 6, 2018

Spring

TRAIN Excursion

you are experiencing the winter doldrums, shake off the gloomy days looking forward to a nice, refreshing, and scenic train ride through the mountains of the Southern Appalachian region. Plan an enjoyable spring train with us aboard the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad! The track follows the route of the former Southern Railway’s Murphy Branch Line, established in 1891, with its five percent grade and many bridges. Much of the route hugs the banks of the Tuckasegee, Little Tennessee, and Nantahala Rivers, and it crosses Fontana Lake on a trestle standing 100 feet above the lake, spanning 780 feet. On Saturday, March 24th, 2018, the Watauga Valley Railroad Historical Society and Museum will sponsor its Spring Excursion – a ride on the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad through the majestic mountains and beautiful countryside of western North Carolina from Dillsboro through Bryson City and the Nantahala Gorge. This trip will be the first time we have offered a train ride on all the completed operating trackage of the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad. Our excursion will depart Johnson City, TN, by motor coach at 9:15 am from the parking lot of Liberty Bell Middle School. We will have a passenger pick-up at 9:45 am in the Asheville/Weaverville area for passengers who find that location more convenient. We will also pick up passengers in Greeneville, TN, at 9:45 am and in Morristown, TN, at 10:15 am. En route to Dillsboro there will be a stopover at Ryan’s Steak House in Sylva, where passengers may purchase lunch if desired. [Passengers may choose to drive on their own to Dillsboro but at the same ticket cost.] Upon arriving in Dillsboro, passengers will have time to see the Jarrett House, a hotel landmark built in 1884, and visit shops before boarding the excursion train at 1:45 pm for the 4.5-hour trip. As we leave Dillsboro, we will see the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad shops and pass the filming location of The Fugitive. The track follows along the Tuckasegee River and travels through the famous Cowee Tunnel on its way to Bryson City. Rising to Fontana Lake we follow the Little Tennessee River, cross the Fontana Lake Trestle, pass the Nantahala Outdoor Center, and enter the breathtaking Nantahala Gorge, following the shore line of the exciting Nantahala River. Play the video clip online at: wataugavalleynrhs. org to see the natural beauty that awaits you. Upon reaching the end of the line, the train will return to the Nantahala Outdoor Center, where our busses will meet us. We expect to arrive back in Weaverville and Morristown by 7:30 pm, Greeneville by 8:00 pm, and Johnson City by 8:30 pm. Questions about the trip? Visit wataugavalleynrhs.org, phone 423-753-5797 or e-mail wataugavalley@embarqmail.com.

15 theloaferonline.com | February 6, 2018

GLENN MILLER ORCHESTRA

WORLD FAMOUS

he world famous Glenn Miller Orchestra will bring their classic, big-band favorites to the Niswonger Performing Arts Center on Saturday, February 10th at 7:30 p.m. This is a show not to miss for jazz and swing fans alike or the incurable romantics who want to step back in time. Launched in 1938 by Glenn Miller and one of the most sought after bands in the world today, the Glenn Miller Orchestra is a fully self-contained group consisting of a music director, five saxophone players, four trumpets, four trombonists, three rhythm musicians and two vocalists. The orchestra continues to thrill crowds worldwide, playing almost 300 shows per year in front of more than 500,000 people annually. With a repertoire of more than 1,700 compositions, the Glenn Miller Orchestra’s list of timeless classics include “Moonlight Serenade,” “In The Mood,” “Tuxedo Junction,” “St. Louis Blues March,” “Sunrise Serenade,” “Little Brown Jug,” and “Rhapsody in Blue.” Even 50 years after founding his famous orchestra, Glenn Miller’s music is alive and well.

The legendary Glenn Miller was one of the most successful dance bandleaders during the Swing Era of the 1930s and 1940s, earning more hit records in one year than anyone in the history of the recording industry. “Chattanooga Choo-Choo” earned the first Gold Record awarded to a performing artist. The Glenn Miller Orchestra has been led by music director and vocalist Nick Hilscher since January 2012. Hilscher, who began his professional career in the 1990s as a teenager, has been featured on several albums with the Glenn Miller Orchestra, including “On The Air” and “Steppin’ Out.” Hilscher released his latest solo album “Young and Foolish” in 2010, which features the music of Nat “King” Cole, Buddy Holly, Roger Miller, Cole Porter, Elvis Presley, and Hank Williams Sr. Take a trip back in time with the world famous Glenn Miller Orchestra on Saturday, February 10th at 7:30 p.m. Only $20 balcony seats remain. Tickets may be purchased online at NPACgreeneville. com, in person at the NPAC box office, or by calling 423-638-1679. This performance is sponsored by Jarden Zinc. NPAC offers online seat selection with no processing or delivery fees. There is an additional $1.50 ticketing fee per ticket regardless of purchase method. The box office hours are Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. 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.

Spotlight

theloaferonline.com | February 6, 2018

- WEDNESDAY - February 7 -

- FRIDAY - February 9 -

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

- SATURDAY - February 10 -

Open Hoot Down Home

Shake Yo MoneyMaker Rush Street

Johnson City Symphony Orchestra Milligan College - Seegar Chapel

Jason Lloyd & Co. O’Mainnin’s Pub

Spank Holston River Brewing Company

Heavy Country Willoughby Ruritan

Open Mic Bloom Cafe and Listening Room

Southern Rebellion Country Club Bar & Grill

Straight Eight and the Valentine Dance Show Palace

Open Mic The Willow Tree Coffeehouse & Music Room

Asylum Suite Wild Wing Cafe

Saul Brooks Band Holston River Brewing Company

Live Music at Bone Fire Smokehouse

Wyldeheart Country Club Bar & Grill

Hunter Patterson Bristol’s Pickin’ Porch

Herrick Down Home

Live Music at Bone Fire Smokehouse

Mal and Jerry: A night of Gypsy Jazz The Willow Tree Coffeehouse & Music Room

Loose Leaves / Smokehouse Crickets Capone’s

Junkyard Dogz Bears Bar

Charlie Bonnet III and Folkin Gasholes Woodstone Deli

Bombadil The Willow Tree Coffeehouse & Music Room

- THURSDAY - February 8 -

Josh Smith Yee Haw Brewing Company Live Musice Bone Fire Smokehouse Rusty Steel Woodstone Deli Andrew Finn Magill & Will MacMorran The Willow Tree Coffeehouse & Music Room Stemwinder Band Rock’s Wood Fired Pizza & Grill Hunter Patterson Bristol’s Pickin’ Porch

Shake Yo MoneyMaker Rush Street 7 Mile Mushroom O’Mainnin’s Pub Manic Scum / Povertybomb / Phenex The Hideaway Wise Old River Quaker Steak & Lube Ryan Ward Sleepy Owl Brewery - SATURDAY - February 10 -

Dirk Quinn Band O’Mainnin’s Pub

Shooter Band Jerico Temple Valentines Dance

The Diamonds Blackbird Bakery

Wallace Coleman w/ Billy Crawford at Holiday Inn (Exit 7) Bristol VA

- FRIDAY - February 9 -

Boarderline Yee Haw Brewing Company

Appalachian Strings David Thompson’s Produce

- SATURDAY - February 10 -

Tom’s Handgun / Silent Stone Deadmark Capone’s Carolina Blue Carter Family Fold The Green Rumours Gypsy Circus Cider Company Alli Epperson & Courtney Logan Bristol VFW Post 6975 Singer/Songwriter Night Bloom Cafe and Listening Room James Meadows Quaker Steak & Lube

Glenn Miller Orchestra Niswonger Performing Arts Center

Quarter Bounce with Rusty Steel Kingsport Moose Lodge #972 Acoustifried Kingsport Eagles Justin Mychals Model City Tap House - SUNDAY - Februray 11-

Jenni Lyn Down Home Charlie Bonnet III and Folkin Gasholes Woodstone Deli

Parker Gispert of The Whigs The Willow Tree Coffeehouse & Music Room

Justin Mychals Model City Tap House

Mike Snodgrass Band Wild Wing Cafe

Stemwinder Band Rock’s Wood Fired Pizza & Grill Soul Swagger CJ’s Sports Bar Plan Z O’Mainnin’s Pub Southern Boy Silver Spur

for show time & more details, visit

theloaferonline.com

Family Night Karaoke at CJ’s Sports Bar Karaoke w/ Crossroads & Josh Blevins at Dawg House Tavern Karaoke w/ Marques at The Cave Karaoke at Numan’s Karaoke w/Absolute Entertainment at Marx the Spot Karaoke w/Ron Hutchins at Zachary's Steakhouse - Kingsport

WEDNESDAY

Karaoke w/ Southern Sounds Karaoke at American Legion Karaoke at CJ’s Sports Bar Karaoke w/ DJ Brad & Top Shelf Entertainment at Quaker Steak & Lube Karaoke w/ Absolute Entertainment at Smokey Bones - Johnson City Turn the Page Karaoke at VFW Post 2108 - Johnson City

THURSDAY

Karaoke w/ Absolute Entertainment at Macado’s - Kingsport Karaoke at CJ’s Sports Bar Karaoke at Numan’s Karaoke w/ Absolute Entertainment at New Beginning’s Karaoke at Jiggy Ray's Pizzaria Karaoke w/Ron Hutchins at Zachary's Steakhouse - Kingsport

FRIDAY

Karaoke w/ Southern Sounds Karaoke at Sportsman’s Bar & Grill Karaoke w/ Shane Rouse at Bear’s Bar Karaoke at Kingsport Moose Lodge Karaoke w/ Reverb Karaoke at The Cottage Turn the Page Karaoke at VFW Post 2108 - Johnson City Karaoke w/ Absolute Entertainment at Moe’s Original BBQ 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

SATURDAY

Karaoke at The Horseshoe Lounge Karaoke at Kingsport Moose Lodg Turn the Page Karaoke at VFW Post 2108 - Johnson City TN Karaoke w/ Absolute Entertainment at Macado’s - Kingsport Karaoke at Numan’s

theloaferonline.com | February 6, 2018

Kara ke TUESDAY

18 theloaferonline.com | February 6, 2018

Celebrating SIXTY YEARS of NASA Satellites Happy 60th birthday, Explorer 1, America’s first satellite, launched on Jan. 31, 1958.

direct response to the Communist Soviet Union's launch of the first artificial satellite, Sputnik 1 on Oct. 12, 1957—and a month later Sputnik 2 with a dog named Laika on Nov. 3—Explorer 1 discovered the “Van Allen” radiation belt circling Earth. For the past six decades, no government agency has been a source of national pride more than the NASA. To join the celebration of the Explorer 1 and the approximately 3,700 American spacecraft that have been launched in six decades (1,100 still active), I offer my Top 10 of NASA's greatest moments in the past 60 years:

Stargazer

By Mark Marquette since 1996 stargazermarq@ gmail.com

10: John Glenn's launch Mercury launch on Feb. 20, 1962 to become the 7: Mars Excursion Rovers Spirit and Opportunity. 1st American to orbit Earth. The Moon Race was on with the Soviet Union. Definitely one of the biggest triumphs of unmanned technology as these two desk-sized rovers were guaranteed for a 3-month mission when they in January 2004. Spirit lasted until 2010 and Opportunity is still 9: Space Shuttle/ Mir Space Station missions. Nine times a US Space landed truckin’ across the Martian surface 14 years later, having travelled 27 Shuttle docked with the Mir Space Station, six times leaving a NASA miles so far. astronaut behind for a six-month tour of duty. The experience in the exchange of science, engineering and physiological data between the one-time space foes has been the bedrock that the International Space 6: International Space Station. The $100 billion oasis in Earth orbit Station is built upon. has been built with the experience of Russia's pioneering Salyut space stations, and the brute hauling power of America's space truck, the Continuously occupied for 18 years, the unique American/ 8: Voyager 2 and the Planetary Grand Tour. This interplanetary space Shuttle. Russian partnership is shared with 14 other nations, creating a probe ventured to Jupiter (1979) and Saturn (1981) like it's twin, Voyager 1, true international science laboratory for decades to come. Get the but continued to Uranus (1986) and Neptune (1989). Those images are still Smartphone app and watch it fly overhead! the only close-ups of the seventh and eighth planets mankind has seen. 5: Hubble Space Telescope. In orbit since 1990 after sitting in a warehouse

for 4 years following the Challenger explosion, HST has revolutionized astronomy and astrophysics in many ways that are beyond the instrument's original mission. Five Space Shuttle maintenance missions have extended its live beyond expectation—and it should last another five years before systems begin to wear out.

4: First Space Shuttle launch.

On April 12, 1981, Columbia lifted off Cape Kennedy pad 39A with John Young and Bob Crippen taking the first ride in a Space Shuttle in the most daring test flight in aviation history. It was the first time NASA had launched men in an untested spacecraft— Mercury, Gemini and Apollo spacecraft all flew unmanned with medical dummies in the crew seats.

3: Mariner IV flies by Mars. Before July 1964, there were plenty of intelligent scientists who thought the landscape of Mars might include forests, lakes and rivers—or signs of them from the past. Instead, 22 photos beamed back to Earth after Mariner IV flew by the Red Planet buried any notion of Little Green Men on Mars. The images revealed a surface that looked more like the Moon, with craters and mountain ranges on a world that was cold, like Antarctica. Continued on page 26

he Moon moves out of the evening skies to the after-midnight scene, and the beautiful stars of winter shine brightly. No other time of the year has so many 1st magnitude or brighter stars. Though nights are cold, they are rewarding if you bundle up, stretch out on a lawn chair and look up for a half-hour or so.

Tuesday, February 6 The amazing array of bright stars form a giant circle in your imagination, called the Winter Hexagon. Start the dot-to-dot with red Aldebaran in the “V-shaped” stars of Taurus the Bull. Go upward to yellowish Capella, left to Pollux and Castor, then down to Procyon. Sirius is at the bottom then up to Rigel. You can imagine a celestial “G” with Betelgeuse and planet Jupiter in the middle. It’s easy! Wednesday, February 7 Space Shuttle Atlantis was launched twice on this date in space history: STS-98 and six astronauts took America’s orbiting lab Destiny to the International Space Station, dropping of one Expedition 16 member and returning another; and in 2008, STS122 and six astronauts made the 24th construction flight to the ISS, delivering the European Space Agency’s space laboratory called Columbus. Thursday, February 8 The constellation Orion is magnificent. The two stars in his legs are supergiant stars—larger than the orbit of Mercury if they replaced our Sun. The knee star to the right is Rigel, a blue-white supergiant that is 910 Light Years away. Saiph, the other knee star, is another supergiant, 1,300 Light Years distant.

Friday, February 9 Red Betelgeuse is 310 Light Years away, a bloated, old star that is one of the largest “supergiants”—filling the orbit of Mars if placed in our Solar System. Bellatrix, the other shoulder star, is a blue giant 360 Light Years away. Saturday, February 10 Gemini the twins are to the left of Orion, with bright star Pollux to the left and Castor above his brother. Pollux is one of the closest stars to Earth, only 36 Light Years away. Castor, 45 Light Years away, is an amazing star with five other stars orbiting it—two easily seen in a telescope. Sunday, February 11 On this 1997 date in space history Discovery was launched for the 22nd time on STS82 for the second service mission to the Hubble Space Telescope. And in 2000 STS-99 launched Endeavour on a 10-day Shuttle Radar Topography Mission that gathered 8 terabytes of data to produce high-quality, 3-D images of the Earth’s surface. Monday, February 12 In 2001, NASA’s Near-Earth Asteroid Rendezvous spacecraft soft landed on the asteroid Eros, a 20-mile long, 10-mile wide body in the asteroid belt. NEAR had orbited Eros for a year, and the unplanned touchdown was a fitting end to the mission. Surprisingly, NEAR survived the soft landing, transmitting data for a month before money ran out and it was shut down on the surface of an alien world that is -280 degrees below zero.

19 theloaferonline.com | February 6, 2018

THIS WEEK

SKIES

Celestial events in the skies for the week of Feb. 6 - 12, 2018 as compiled for The Loafer by Mark D. Marquette.

theloaferonline.com | February 6, 2018

Hyrule Champion IAmThe

Batteries Not Included

By Andy Ross aross@ theloaferonline.com

his past Christmas, my parents surprised me with the gift of venerable game company Nintendo’s newest gaming system, the Nintendo Switch. The Switch, which was released last March, has become a massive success for Nintendo. The system is both a home console and a portable. Half of the time I play mine, I’m just blown away by all the ways one can play and interact with it, not to mention how they manage to get full games into cartridges the size of my thumb. When I was surprised with this amazing gift, I did what anyone who grew up with Nintendo as part of their childhood DNA does. Freak out and suddenly become my seven-year-old self once more for a few seconds. I have been playing my Switch heavily, and frankly, it’s the most I’ve played video games since I was a teenager. I can’t recall the last time I enjoyed a gaming system so much. Because of this, I find that I am playing my Nintendo Switch a lot. As in, a great deal. As in, quite frequently—thanks to its portability. One game, in particular, the open world epic “The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild” appears to have endless play options. In addition to the main quests in the game, there are side quests, and then you can even just go off and explore without doing any quest in particular if you like. This is the game that I tend to play the most out in the wild with my Switch. Sometimes at moments when it might not be the most appropriate. During a recent conference with my child’s teacher, I found myself playing my Switch. The teacher told me this looked bad on my part. Here I am trying to find the best educational option for little Lemuel, being an adult, and I said to the teacher when she tried to speak to me, with much intent in my voice, “I’ll discuss his grades as soon as I save these truffle hunters from a group of monsters! I am the champion of Hyrule!” Perhaps I’m playing too much Zelda, and perhaps my

enjoyment of it is going to my head a little. During breakfast with friends the other day at the IHOP, I ordered a rather large order. Since I made it clear that I was serious about losing weight this year, my friends expressed some concern about the large number of pancakes I ordered. I shook my head and sighed “Don’t you understand I am trying to bring peace the kingdom of Hyrule!? There is great terror about and I am the only one who can stop it!” Another part of “Breath of the Wild” is that you forage around for food and other provisions. The game will place a small twinkle light on an item you can pick up, to show you where it is. Well, with all the cold and snow we’ve had lately, sometimes in the evening light of a car’s headlights have a similar twinkle. I was out with a date and taking them back home after a wonderful evening. As I turned onto a road near where they lived, I stopped the car and got out. My date, justifiably confused and worried, watched me walk into an empty lot with a “for sale” sign the only thing present. I returned empty handed and looking dejected. “Are you OK?” they asked. “Yeah. I just thought I saw an Ironshroom over there.” They still looked confused. “You know, the magical mushroom that gives me the power to help defeat the great calamity that fell upon this land?” They won’t return my calls. Perhaps my enjoyment of my Nintendo Switch is bleeding over into real life just a bit too much. I know Nintendo loves to make games that keep people engaged, but maybe I’m throwing it into a little overkill. Either way, I’m still having a grand time playing the system and it’s been a great way to spend these frozen nights. I’ll see you all next week, I gotta go and raid this camp of monsters to save a farmer’s stolen sheep. Where’s my broadsword?

JOHNSON CITY Ranks as One of the Best Places to Live

ohnson City was recognized as one of the best places in the U.S. to live. The designation was announced by Livability.com, one of the leading online authorities used for researching communities, as part of their “2018 Top 100 Best Places to Live” list—released on Tuesday, January 23rd. One of the key characteristics that Livability.com described as placing Johnson City, Tenn., high on their list is the area’s natural beauty—surrounded by the beautiful Appalachian Mountains and numerous rivers and lakes—as well as its pleasant climate. The variety of outdoor activities available in the area make it a perfect place to be based for any outdoors enthusiast—from backpacking to mountain climbing, hunting, fishing, biking, and boating. The area also boasts some of the best scenic roads in the U.S.—providing some of the prettiest winding ribbons of pavement for motorcycle and automobile enthusiasts. Just minutes from the historic Appalachian Trail and Blue Ridge Parkway, Johnson City is ideal for day trips to escape into nature. Johnson City is also going to be opening a world-class

mountain biking park, Tannery Knobs, early in 2018. The new park is sure to attract many new tourists, events, and athletes to the area to take advantage of this state-of-the-art facility. Johnson City scored highest in areas that would be very important to those looking for a start the next exciting chapter of life. Affordable housing and economic strength were among the city’s highest scores. The Johnson City area has always had a relatively low cost-of-living compared to the amenities and quality of living it provides. Livability recognized that Johnson City does an amazing job providing a very high quality of life to its residents without the cost of other cities. Livability.com also noted that Johnson City indexed much higher than the national average as an incubator for small businesses and tech start-up companies, thanks to the city’s focus on entrepreneurial support to intrepid young thoughtleaders. Projects like East Tennessee State University’s (ETSU) Innovation Lab provide a great deal of resources and expert support to help those with great new ideas bring them to reality and then find ways to commercialize their solutions.

The region also houses an active collaborative community of young business owners, marketers, and artists that give it a healthy small-business structure. Johnson City also has an amazing artist community, helped by young artists attending Milligan College and ETSU, as well as the growing advertising and digital media industries in the area. The city also boasts a vibrant performing arts community, with many community theaters, orchestras, dance studios, and concert venues. Johnson City hosts many art, music, and food festivals throughout the year, including the famous Blue Plum Festival, to ensure there is always something happening. With incredible local independent dining, shopping, and an amazing fine arts and performing arts community, Johnson City has something for anyone. It is exciting to be recognized as one of the best places to live, and the city looks forward to continuing to grow and improve every year. For more information about the Johnson City area, check out www.visitjohnsoncitytn.com.

theloaferonline.com | February 6, 2018

Tennessee's oldest town is about to get a lot sweeter! The third annual Chocolate Fest will be held on Saturday, February 10th from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Spend this Valentine's weekend throughout Downtown Jonesborough tasting some delicious chocolate treats provided by area merchants and restaurants. There will be endless options— everything from barks, fudges, chocolate covered strawberries and so much more! Tickets will be sold in groups of 10 and 15. Tickets are redeemable at Chocolate Tasting Locations throughout downtown where one ticket equals one chocolate treat. Tickets are available online now at jonesborough.com/tickets. A very limited number of tickets will be sold at the door on Feb. 10 starting at 10:00 am at the International Storytelling Center. Call (423) 753-1010 for more information or visit our Facebook event page at Jonesborough Chocolate Fest. This event is sponsored by JAMSA, Jonesborough’s Area Merchants and Services Association.

at the Country Club

Chocolate Fest

WYLDEHEART

theloaferonline.com | February 6, 2018

ne of the most popular bands in the region will take the stage out on West State Street Saturday, Feb. 10th. Wyldeheart is one of those bands that seem to get it right all the time. They have a top-notch group of musicians, a great lead singer and an electric stage presence. Wyldeheart brings a unique edge to Rock, Country, 80's, Dance and Oldies music, covering most kinds of music and bringing a very unique experience to their audience! Marques Puckett, their lead singer with the melodic vocals, is backed up by DC Wolf, Ric Burns, Mike Eldrith and Richie Gray. Looking for some great dance music and a rockin’ good time? Head on out to the Country Club Bar & Grill. If some great Country is more your style, Friday night is the time to be there. Southern Rebellion will wow the crowd starting at 10:00 on Ladies Night. I heard one person put it better than I can: “They're down to earth and do what they do because they love what they do.” A perfect recipe for a good band and a great time! It’s all happening at The Country Club – see you out there!

The Death Cure

I'm

Pop Life

By Ken Silvers ksilvers@ theloaferonline.com

Rated PG-13 3 1/2 Mazes (out of 4)

sure if you read my column on a regular basis you know I am a fan of science fiction films, even those that are cheesy. Thankfully, there is nothing cheesy about the new sci-fi/action thriller "Maze Runner: The Death Cure." The film is the third in a series based on "The Maze Runner" novels. The first film hit theaters in 2014, followed by the 2015 release "Maze Runner:The Scorch Trials." For those unfamiliar with the series, the story has been following sixteen-year-old Thomas (Dylan O'Brien), and how he has become a very vital part in saving humanity. In the first film, Thomas wakes up in a rusty elevator that takes him to the middle of a functioning maze where he is held with other boys who are merely surviving to find their way out of the maze. At the end of the first film (*spoiler alert*) Thomas and several of his new friends, including Teresa (Kaya Scodelario), the first girl in the maze, manage to escape the maze, and discover they have been held by the World Killzone Department (W.C.K.D.) for the purpose of saving humanity. In the story, Earth was devastated by a massive solar flare, which was followed by a pandemic of deadly virus named the Flare. The kids have been studied by W.C.K.D. in the hopes a cure could be found. The virus has the effect of fast moving zombies on those infected, so you can understand why a cure would be top priority for the uninfected. In the second film, Thomas and his friends are searching for clues about W.C.K.D. through a desolate landscape named the Scorch. Thomas and crew meet up with some resistance fighters and they take on W.C.K.D. However, one member of the resistant fighters betrays the group, and leaves with W.C.K.D. The new film picks up Thomas and company rescuing some kids who

are being shipped to W.C.K.D. headquarters for more experiments. Thomas hopes to find his dear friend Minho (Ki Hong Lee) in the group, but sadly discovers he is being held at W.C.K.D. headquarters. The aforementioned discovery leaves Thomas more determined than ever to rescue his friend, but even with the help of the resistant fighters, and some new people he has met outside the Last City, a huge metropolis behind a massive wall, he faces an uphill battle. The Last City was created to protect those living there from the infected until a cure can be found. Undaunted, Thomas and his friends find a way into the Last City, where they run across the person who betrayed them. Thomas and crew manage to infiltrate W.C.K.D. headquarters, where they are able to rescue some kids being held, but the rescue of Minho proves quite the challenge. Eventually Thomas reunites with his friend, but not after he discovers the real reason he has actually been the main target of W.C.K.D. Along the way to the films conclusion, several favorite characters are lost, and they devastate Thomas. The film has an optimistic ending, and even though this appears to be the end of the film trilogy, there could easily be a fourth film. The actors are all marvelous in the film, with O'Brien truly embracing his role over the course of the trilogy, and proves he is an action film star to be reckoned with. This film is action packed, and I felt little time to catch my breath, as the action kicks into high gear at the beginning of the film and never lets up. The special effects are top notch, and you can see the films $62 million dollar budget in every scene. "Maze Runner: The Death Cure" is a cinematic thrill ride that will leave you hanging on to your theater seat.

theloaferonline.com | February 6, 2018

Maze Runner:

theloaferonline.com | January 30, 2018

Fort Zachary Taylor It’s

Appalachian Wanderers

By Jason & Daniel Worley jdworley@ theloaferonline.com

another week here in East Tennessee, and for 2018, that means another round of frigid temperatures and wintry weather is bound to be on its way. Over the last couple of issues, we’ve offered some advice on ways to enjoy the beauty that winter brings to the mountains, whether you prefer to brave the powdery slopes or prefer the comfort that a warm car provides. Of course, there are some of us who want absolutely nothing to do with the “joys of winter” and prefer an extended vacation in warmer climes, whether that be California, an isolated island in the Caribbean, or the warm beaches of Florida. This will be our last excursion to the Sunshine State for a while. Last month we covered two of the state’s most treasured natural areas. Everglades and Biscayne National Parks are spectacular environments which rival the beauty of our own Smokies. We had amazing visits to both, although they were still recovering from the damage wrought by Hurricane Irma. After visiting both parks, we drove further south to the very end of the Florida Keys. While Dry Tortugas National Park was our final goal, we decided to postpone that trip for another time when we could be certain that everything was running again smoothly. Since we were already in Key West, we decided to spend the remaining three days we had at the Southernmost City in the U.S. While the sights and sounds of Duval Street are the main draw on the key, there is so much more that the community has to offer. Numerous boat tours venture out into open waters so visitors can take part in professionallyguided snorkel and scuba diving trips among the coral reefs. Those who love adventure can charter a sailboat or even go parasailing. Nearby Big Pine Key offers the chance to see the endangered Key Deer. Not much bigger than a dog, these miniaturized deer are native only to the Florida Keys and number less than one-thousand individuals. We found a hidden gem tucked away on the far western end of the island. Fort Zachary Taylor State Park covers just over fifty acres, but what it lacks in size it more than makes up for in spectacular scenery and an amazing historical legacy. The park is basically split in two separate areas. The northern half is dominated by the aged stone façade of Fort Zachary Taylor itself, while the southern portion is a series of white coral beaches, pine forests, and palm trees. Reaching the park is a bit confusing, as there are several turns and a roundabout, although you should be fine if you follow the signs which

State Park

begin on Duval Street. Keep your eyes open and you may see some ships at the adjacent Naval base which abuts the park. Be prepared with your wallet in hand, as you will be required to pay a small fee to enter the park. While this may come as a shock to us Tennesseans, Florida state parks aren’t free. A car with two people runs $7.00, although additional visitors must pay $0.50 each. Although most visitors run straight to the water (ourselves included), the fort is an amazing piece of history which should not be missed. Arrive by 11:00 A.M. and you can take part in a guided tour by one of the park rangers to learn how important the fort was during the Civil War as well as the Spanish-American War. Construction began in 1845, making its age over 170 years! Although it never saw any battles during the Civil War, it was an important stronghold for the Union cause. Although many portions of the original fort were demolished or renovated over the years, it is still an impressive structure to look at. After touring the fort areas, it’s time to hit the beach! Don’t stop in surprise once you reach the water, however. This isn’t like the beaches on the mainland that have hundreds of feet of snow white sand. Beaches in the Florida Keys are rocky and composed of crushed pieces of coral. While it may be hard to build a good sandcastle, it shouldn’t negatively impact your visit if you remember to bring sandals or some water shoes. We actually enjoyed the change, as we were able to beachcomb for sand dollars and a variety of unique corals. Bring along a picnic lunch or some hot dogs for dinner, as there are picnic areas and grills scattered under pine trees along the length of the beach. A small café nearby offers a variety of drinks and dining options for those who don’t feel like cooking themselves. Here visitors can also check out snorkeling equipment, surfboards, and paddleboards. We enjoyed snorkeling in the shallow waters and were surprised to find a variety of colorful fish just off the shore. We even found several rather sizeable lobsters among the rockier areas. Be sure to stick around for the sunset if the skies are clear. The far west end of the park has a seawall which makes a perfect place to see the best sunset in all the Florida Keys! Check out the park’s official website at www.fortzacharytaylor.com/ index.html for more information.

DON RAINES: The Interview

began working in radio in 1998 at the radio group in Gray, TN. Through that job I was blessed to meet many people who would change the course of my life. One of the most primary among those folks is Don Raines. If you know Don, the mention of his name just now made you smile. If you don’t know Don already, he is a guy who has been very successful on many fronts in life but continuously gives back. Among his accomplishments, Don is the co-creator of the Niswonger Children’s Hospital Radiothon and was named the 2018 winner of the Mountain States Foundation’s Spirit Award.

Meet Don Raines.

Mountain Movers

By Brian Bishop bbishop@ theloaferonline.com

BRIAN: Where did you grow up and what was that time of your life like? DON: I grew up on a farm in White Pine Tennessee, although we had little money it was a great childhood. We raised pigs, cows and lots of chickens, in the summer we would grow large gardens and can food for the winter. We actually grew a large portion of the food we ate, so we always had plenty. I had two brothers and two sisters who shared in the daily chores of running the farm. I was lucky that I two great parents who always encouraged us to fellow our dreams and really pushed for getting a great education. I attended White Pine High School, which went from first grade to 12th grade. BRIAN: You could live just about anywhere you want. What is it about this region and the people here that make you want to call this region home? DON: When I graduated from ETSU, my original plan was to leave Johnson City and attend law school, but I got a job working for the JC Press in advertising department and found it was something I really enjoyed. I then moved into radio advertising. Johnson City quickly became my home, I had established so many great friends here, many of them I still see today. It’s a small enough community that everyone seems like your neighbor, but large enough to have a great University and healthcare system and lots of fun things to do. Our door recreation is second to none in our region. BRIAN: Family is a big part of the culture here, how are you able to balance a busy career with spending quality family time? DON: I think that was the hardest thing to accomplish, trying to build a career and at the same time spend quality time with family and friends, but I always tried to do fun things with my son Bobby, we loved to ski, go flying and sailing. I used vacation to try and get him exposer to other countries and cultures.

BRIAN: Faith is the other defining part of our regional culture. How does your faith impact your daily life at work and at home? DON: Faith is the common denominator for most anyone growing up in the southern mountains. I was taught at a very young age religion wasn’t just something you belonged to, but it was more about what you did you help your fellow man, and community. I’ve always liked the quote “Ain’t no right way to do the wrong thing”. Though I would be the first to say, I’ve fallen short many times, I do think it’s a great code to live by. BRIAN: You have had a long and successful career in business, but you are so involved with giving back at this point in your life. What drives that in you and what are some current projects you want folks to learn about? DON: I have been very blessed to have had such great opportunities in the Radio Industry here in the Tri-Cities it was so great for me and my family, I’ve always felt the need to give back to our community, not everyone gets the same advantages and opportunities and it is incumbent on all of us who have the time and means to help left up our neighbors and friends when they are in need. I’m currently involved with the Johnson City Lions Club of which I’ve been a member for the last 35 years, we raise money each year for sight conservation. We buy eyeglasses for those folks who can’t afford to buy for themselves, mostly school age children and elderly. I’m also involved with Niswonger Children’s Hospital, raising money with our annual Radiothon. 100% goes to actually helping the kids of our region. It’s amazing to see what they’re doing in both in-patient and outpatient care. The Radiothon is coming up on February 27th and I would encourage civic groups, churches and individuals to jump and help us raise money. Check out niswongerchildrensradiothon.com for more details.

theloaferonline.com | February 6, 2018

2: Apollo 13 rescue. The safe return of the three moon-bound astronauts to Earth defied all odds. Their reentry spacecraft crippled by an oxygen tank explosion and their lunar lander turned into a lifeboat, the three, nailbiting days traversing the 240,000-mile distance was accomplished with trust between the crew and ground technicians, as well as ingenuity, persistence—and a world-wide prayer vigil.

NASA’s Horizon mission to surprisingly dynamic Pluto in 2015 changed how we think of the outer Solar System. Still climbing a Martian mountain since 2012 is the fantastic rover Curiosity. And many other NASA accomplishments ring through the historical archives that could be on my Top 10 list. Some of those include Ed White's first American space walk in June 1965; the Viking 1 & 2 landers on Mars in 1976; interplanetary spacecraft like Messenger to Mercury, Magellan to Venus, Galileo to Jupiter and Cassini to Saturn; NASA's other great astronomical observatories of Chandra X-ray, Spitzer Infrared and Compton Gamma Ray. There are those geosynchronous satellites that our TV dishes are pointed toward. And the lifesaving weather satellites that monitor Earth and provide forecasting 24-hours a day, seven days a week. How about the host of important communications satellites like Telstar, Echo, Early Bird, as well as Earth resources orbiters called Landsat, Terra and Aqua that monitor our land and oceans. And don’t forget the often-secret spy satellites that keep America safe from adversaries. NASA's legacy includes the names of ground-breaking spacecraft like Pioneer, Lunar Orbiter and Surveyor. There are satellites that have been sent to asteroids, comets and even landed on Saturn’s moon Titan. Sixty years is a blink of the eye in the grand scheme of time, so the accomplishments ring even greater. And NASA will continue into the 21st Century to build bases on the Moon, explore Mars and maybe capture a few asteroids along the way. No one can deny that everyday life of us earthlings has been affected by NASA's pioneering efforts in the Space Age. And all started with our first satellite, Explorer 1.

Discounts available with ticket stub day of performance

1: Apollo 11 Moon landing. July 20, 1969 is a date etched in human history, undoubtedly the top technological achievement of the 20th Century. The footsteps of Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin at Tranquility Base fulfilled an ultimate dream of all humanity. And Americans landed on the Moon five more times the next three years.

Paramount Partners

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26 Continued from page 18

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

The Casual Word

By Langley Shazor Follow Langley at TheCasualWord

Do not let the sun Go down on your anger No matter where the sun resides Anger is still with me Unforgiveness will destroy you I have to start with myself Where do I begin? One of the enemies greatest tactics Works all too well I must seek a word Not the words of friends Nor of my mind For my mind is full of anguish It cannot be trusted I need you, oh Lord The Word The author and finisher of my faith Scribe the phrases on my heart Relieve my soul Remind me to count my blessings Not to tally my failures Asseverate your will Embolden my complete being Striding in that will faithfully Let all bear witness The content of my character revealed I was down I am down But never out

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Declaration

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Answers on page 30

Goldie is a two year old female terrier mix. She is spayed and up to date on all vaccines. Such a sweet cutie! Please consider her for your family!

Diamond is a year old Terrier mix. She is spayed and up to date on all vaccines. This lively little girl loves to play!

he Bridge Home has an ongoing aluminum can collection in front of the shelter at 2061 Hwy 75 in Blountville, TN 37617 and a second aluminum can collection site at Airworks Heating and Cooling, 5633 Memorial Blvd Kingsport. 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 12pm6pm Sat 12pm-3pm and Sun 2pm-4pm. Website is www.bridgehomerescue@ gmail.com or like them on Facebook: www.Facebook.com/bridgehome

29 theloaferonline.com | February 6, 2018

PETS

OF THE WEEK

theloaferonline.com | February 6, 2018

THINGS TO DO Big Brothers Big Sisters Looking for Community Volunteers Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Tri-Cities (BBBSGTC) is looking for community volunteers to make a difference in a child’s life. Spending approximately 4 hours a month with an at-risk youth can help them improve in school, their behavior and their self-esteem. “Our kids have a need, and we are looking for caring adults to step up and volunteer,” said Kathy Lowdermilk, Regional Director of BBBSGTC. “If you have a few hours a month and the desire to make a difference, we want to talk with you about our program.” Our local Big Brothers Big Sisters office is part of one of the oldest and largest youth mentoring organizations in the United States. It’s a system that has been proven to work and transforms the lives of children who might not otherwise ever get the support they need to grow and successfully meet life’s challenges. Child-volunteer matches are made based on in-depth and comprehensive interviewing with parents, children and potential volunteers. Stringent safeguards are in place to assure that all parties are safe. Volunteer and parent engagement and training also play a big role. Anyone wanting to find out more about Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Tri-Cities should contact the office by calling 423-247-3240, or visiting TennesseeBig.org. •••••••••••••••••••••••••• Blood Drive Marsh Regional Blood Center will conduct public blood drives at the area locations. Visit 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, 423652-0014 or 276-679-4669 or visit marshblood.com. •••••••••••••••••••••••••• The Casual Word Adult Creative Writing Class Join us for a free, fun, engaging, and different look into writing. In this class, we will not focus on structure, form, or rules, but on the freedom of writing. It is the goal of this class to open the 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. •••••••••••••••••••••••••• Author Fair Sure Fire Publishing teams up with The Casual Word publishing to host their first annual author fair at the Bristol Public Library, 701 Goode St. on Februrary 10th from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Casual Word and Sure Fire will be there to answer any questions for anyone who is interested in writing and/or publishing. Several authors will be at the event for book signings, Q an A's, and round table talks. This event is drop in and all are welcome. There will be drawings through the day for door prizes. Don't Miss it! • 10 a.m.: Question and Answers

with our publishing teams. • 12 p.m.: Author Book Signings. • Door prizes every hour, on the hour: 12 p.m. - 5 p.m. ••••••••••••••••••••••••••

free program and can be completed by calling Youth Services at 434-4458 or by visiting the Event Calendar at www.jcpl.org. At least one person registered per family must be eight to eighteen years old. Children eight to twelve years old may still register individually as they would for other book clubs. To learn more about this and other upcoming events, like the library’s Facebook page, or follow the library on Twitter or Instagram

Cooking Class Healthy Soups and Stews with Chef Sheridan Nice. Thursday, February 8th, from 6:00—9:00 PM., at The Ron Ramsey Agricultural Center is located at 140 Spurgeon Lane, Blountville, TN 37617. Cost is $35 per person (Space is limited to 24 attendees) Each attendee needs to register separate •••••••••••••••••••••••••• Register at tinyurl.com/y9n4tp4p. If you have questions about the Tax Preparation event please contact: Karen Row- With the financial support of ell at karenrowell94@gmail.com Eastman Credit Union (ECU), a group of East Tennessee State or 423-737-0332 University (ETSU) business stu•••••••••••••••••••••••••• dent volunteers, under the guidFamily Book Club ance of accountancy faculty Families of school age children members Dr. Anthony Masino and are invited to the Johnson City Dr. Michelle Freeman, will offer Public Library Storytime Room on free tax preparation assistance February 8 at 6:30 p.m. to discuss again this year through the InterA Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine nal Revenue Service Volunteer L’Engle. This story follows Meg, Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Prowho with the help of some friends, gram. As an approved VITA locamust journey through space and tion, the ETSU group will assist time to find her long-lost father. taxpayers who had $55,000 or less Registration is required for this in income during tax year 2017.

Hours have been extended for the 2017 filing season. Volunteers will be available to offer tax preparation services on the following Saturdays – Feb. 10 and 24, March 10 and 24, and April 7 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Sam Wilson Hall, room 318, on ETSU’s main campus. For more information or to make an appointment, contact Masino at 423-439-4432 or Masino@ etsu.edu or Freeman at 423-4394432 or freemanms@etsu.edu. For disability accommodations, call the ETSU Office of Disability Services at 423-439-8346. •••••••••••••••••••••••••• Love & Chocolate: Romance and Cookbook Booksale In conjunction with Jonesborough’s Chocolate Fest, and in celebration of Book Lover’s Month, the Jonesborough Library invites you to a Love & Chocolate Booksale event on Saturday, February 10th, from 11:00am to 4:00pm. Come by for chocolate and browse a selection of books for sale. If you have any questions, please call the Jonesborough Library at 753-1800.

Cryptogram: What do you call those pasta in bows? Like a bow-tie, but miniature? Like an action man bow-tie. DropQuote: "Men are so simple and yield so readily to the desires of the moment that he who will trick will always find another who will suffer to be tricked."

T Kelly’s Place

By Jim Kelly since 1989 jkelly@ theloaferonline.com

his week’s grammatically incorrect title takes its inspiration from the Bee Gees’ 1967 hit song, “Words,” which informs us that “It’s only words, and words are all I have to take your heart away.” Who knows? If the Gibbs had sung “They’re only words,” they might never have had their hit. Words are indeed powerful and provocative things, and they are in fact all we have when it comes to language. I use them every week, of course, and have never wondered if they’re taking anyone’s heart away. A nice thought, nevertheless. Every year I devote a column or two to new words that are presented for our inspection by Websters and dictionary.com. This week, however, let’s take a look at some much older, even antiquarian words. The January 26 edition of BuzzFeed, an admittedly sometimes rather strange website, offers us some very obscure and generally unfamiliar words that are deemed “oldtimey” by columnist Ali Velez. I must say I was not initially aware of these words, and am looking forward to using them whenever the occasion arises. Be on the lookout for a few of them in the weeks to come. Interestingly enough, some of these words have special application to my life. Let’s start with ULTRACREPIDARIAN, which refers to “a person who offers opinions and advice on subjects they know little to nothing about.” I have been writing this column since 1989 and must admit that I have been guilty of being an ultracrepidarian on more than one occasion. I often treat this column as a learning experience and look forward each week to what I might discover from the writing experience. So, in many ways I am rather proud to be a UC. Although I seldom write about the volatile subject of politics in this column, we might speculate from time to time if we might be a little skeptical about the people we choose to represent us. The definition of KAKISTOCRACY is “government by the least qualified or worst people.” While we undoubtedly are fortunate enough to have many well-qualified and responsible people representing us, we should entertain the possibility that we sometimes don’t. And this reminds me of the advice I received “back in the day”: Never trust anyone over 30.

theloaferonline.com | February 6, 2018

It's Only A word I can’t pronounce is UHTCEARE which describes “lying awake and worrying before dawn.”Even if I could pronounce it, I don’t like the way it looks. I guess we could say it is unprincipled. Some words are just not very attractive and might indeed cause sleep-disruptive anxiety. No doubt we have all met our share of SNOLLYGOSTERS, those “shrew, unprincipled” people who make our lives less pleasant. Closely related to this is a GROKE--”someone who stares at you while you eat, hoping you will share your food with them.” Needless to say, I have been a groke at times, and vow never to be like that again. And, yes, I am not ashamed to admit that I have been a SLUGABED, “someone who stays in bed after the usual or proper time to get up.” I am sure I am not alone in being guilty of this transgression. Although I don’t have a full beard, I do sport a mustache and a goatee, so I guess that semi-qualifies me as being BARBIGEROUS, or “having a beard; bearded.” Hopefully this not the same as being barbaric or barbarous. I don’t generally spend “lavish amounts of money on food and drink,” I happy to report that I don’t indulge in ABLIGURITION. Another rather awkward looking word. However, I am proud of being a LIBROCUBICULARIST, “a person who reads in bed.” Of course, I can never use this word. Just imagine what someone might think if I described myself as such. A somewhat frightening prospect. What can I say about FUDGEL, which is “pretending to work while not doing anything productive.” Obviously I don’t want to incriminate myself with that one. Hopefully, we can’t say that about this column. And I have never had “the irresistible urge to do something unadvisable,” which is described as CACOETHES. Try pronouncing that one. And, now we have my favorite word on the list--CRINKUMCRANKUM, which means “full of twists and turns.” A very apt description of life, don’t you think? And with that, I will bring this twisting and turning column to an end while you go in search of new words to add to your vocabulary. Better yet, why don’t you try and create a sentence using all the words listed above? Just excuse me while I transform into a slugabed.

theloaferonline.com | February 6, 2018