theloaferonline.com | January 3, 2017
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on the cover
Volume 31 • Issue #5
2016 It Was A Year That Was
Publisher Luci Tate Editor Graphic Arts Director Don Sprinkle Cover Design Bill May
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!
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Stargazer Armchair Astronomers, A Growing Breed Skies This Week Batteries Not Included A New Year Apology Pop Life 2016 Pop Culture Events The Trivial Traveler The President's Residence Precedence Appalachian Wanderers The Tennessee Aquarium The Casual Work Love Thoughts Outdoor Life Ruger and The LCP 380 Puzzle Page Kelly’s Place Breakdancing With Bach
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 Matt Messer
columns & reviews
Advertising Dave Carter Patti Barr Shawn Hale Paul Kavanaugh
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2016 - It Was A Year 2017 Theatre Bristol Season Shop With A Cop, Reaching 51 Children Old Christmas at Fort Watauga Here Comes The Bride Tri Cities Bridal Show Simple Elegance Bridal Show Lyrics & Lore Butterfly Gardening Butterfly Gardening Carter Mansion Christmas Tours AJ Croce Plays Barter Theatre Folk is People Showcase New Tunes Spotlight United We Stand, Interfaith Concert Justin Townes Earl @ Barter Contra Dance Returns Pets Of The Week Things To Do
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It Was A Year That Was If you’re feeling pretty depressed about the way 2016 went out, then here are a few things that may just cheer you up. 2016 has been a pretty terrible year, with the deaths of much-loved icons including David Bowie, Prince, George Michael, Carrie Fisher adding to blue mood. It has been dubbed “officially the worst year in the history of the universe” on social media, with others adding that “2016 can end any time now.” It sorta starting making me sad until I ran across a tumblr user (helthehatter) who compiled a list of Good Things that happened in 2016 and it made me smile and think back on the year. Not everything was bad. See, good things did happen –
Good Things that Happened in 2016 • New chemotherapy breakthroughs have increased the 5-year survival for pancreatic cancer
from 16% to 27% (and is getting better) • Scientists figured out how to link robotic limbs with the part of the brain that deals with intent to move so people don’t have to think about how they will move the limb, it can just happen. • Child mortality is down everywhere and it keeps going down. • Thanks to the ice bucket challenge the gene responsible for ALS has been found, meaning we are closer to an effective treatment. Let me rephrase that: we are close to getting a treatment for a very bad disease because a lot of people (including really hot celebrities) got wet. • A solar powered plan circumnavigated the world. • Michael Jordan donates 2mil to try and help bridge connection between police and the community. • Tiger numbers are growing. • And manatees. • And pandas. • Pokemon Go players went insane with placing lure modules near hospitals for sick kids. • California is now powering over 6 million homes with solar power, a record in the US. • Volunteers in India planted 50 million trees in 24 hours. • Apparently world crime as a whole has drastically declined in the last couple of decades. • Coffee consumption has been proved to help curtail cancer and suicide rates. • Speaking of coffee, Starbucks figured out how to donate perishable food in a food safe way. • 500 elephants were relocated to a better, safer and bigger home. • We made massive strides in Alzheimers’ prevention. • The ozone layer is repairing itself and all the work we did to get rid of those aerosol chemicals was actually worth it. • The Anglican church resolved to solemnize same-sex unions the same as opposite-sex unions which required a super majority of all three orders of the church (lay, clergy, bishop). • Precision treatments for cancer are hitting clinical trials and WORKING. • Dentists are once again providing free care to veterans who need it. • The murder weapon was found in the OJ Simpson trial. • Death by heart disease has decreased by 70% in the United States. • Two brothers saw color for the first time thanks to specially-designed glasses. • Portugal ran its entire nation solely on renewable energy for four days straight. • A retiree is launching a project to transport 80 endangered rhinos to an Australian . reservation to save the animals from poaching. • An Afghan teacher has been delivering books via bicycle to villages that lack schools • 200 strangers attended the funeral of a homeless WW2 veteran with no family. • A teen battling cancer married his sweetheart. • Bank firm pays for college tuition for the children of employees who died in the 9/11 attacks.
• New medicine has been shown to increase melanoma survival rate to 40% • Volunteers made special tiny Halloween costumes for NICU babies • A 4-year old befriends a lonely man and helped him heal after losing his wife • Families grew • People survived cancer • People overcame depression • Any kind of victory, even if it affects only one person, is a victory • Now for the pop culture good news • LEONARDO DICAPRIO WON AN OSCAR! EVERYONE READING THIS LIVED LONG ENOUGH TO SEE LEO FINALLY GET WHAT HE DESERVED • There’s a new Harry Potter book • And a movie • Harry Potter has no plans on vanishing with time • This sweet father gave candy to passengers on a flight so his little girl could trick or treat on Halloween
Good things that have nothing to do with the year but will hopefully make you feel better • Puppies • Chocolate • Rainbows • Cartoons • Kissing • Music • Friends • The Loafer
e m o c l e W
Theatre Bristol's 52nd Season kicks off with a special collaboration between Theatre Bristol and River's Way directed by Dottie Havlik. A timely spring production of "The Adventures of Peter Rabbit and His Friends" follows. It will be directed by Laura O'Bryan and will include school shows and public performances at the ARTspace. Peter Rabbit auditions will be January 29 at 2:30 and January 30 & 31 at 6:30 pm at Theatre Bristol, 512 State Street, Bristol, TN. Casting calls will be February 3. Rehearsals begin February 6. Public performances are March 24, 25, 26, 31, April 1 & 2. Schools interested in public performances may contact info@theatrebristol.org. In June, Theatre Bristol will present Disney's Beauty and the Beast at the Paramount Center for the Arts. Auditions for Disney's Beauty and the Beast will be March 4, 5, 6, 11 & 12 at Theatre Bristol, 512 State Street, Bristol, TN. Callbacks will be March 14. Casting calls will be March 17 & 18. Rehearsals will begin on April 24. Performances will be June 16, 17, 18, 23, 24, & 25. Times and additional important details are available at www.theatrebristol/audition. In the fall, "Tom Sawyer" takes us on an adventure at the Theatre Bristol ARTspace. Auditions for this production, will be announced at www. theatrebristol/audition. In time for the holidays, Theatre Bristol musical favorite "Annie" returns to the stage and Junie B. Jones makes her Theatre Bristol debut in "Junie B. in Jingle Bells, Batman Smells." Please follow Theatre Bristol's site and Facebook page for audition announcements and performance dates for both of these shows. The 52nd Season will also include the annual Youth Service Board production and Theatre Bristol's popular summer camp for children ages kindergarten through sixth grades. Theatre Bristol is currently welcoming show and Season sponsors and souvenir program advertising for the 52nd Season. Please contact info@ TheatreBristol.org or 423-212-3625 for more information. Those interested in being a part of the wonderful experience of live performance by bringing it to life over several weeks and working backstage
as part of the production team and stage crew are welcome to come to any of the audition dates and discuss their interest and skill. This invitation includes those interested in orchestra, costuming, set design and construction, lighting, sound, stage management, props, publicity, and many other roles. Interested individuals can also email info@theatrebristol.org. All roles are volunteer, as there is no paid staff. No experience is necessary for crew work, though welcome. Theatre Bristol’s production of ANNIE: Book by THOMAS MEEHAN, Music by CHARLES STROUSE, Lyrics by MARTIN CHARNIN, Original Broadway Production Directed by MARTIN CHARNIN, Based on "Little Orphan Annie"®, By Permission of Tribune Content Agency, LLC The Theatre Bristol production of Disney's BEAUTY AND THE BEAST: Music by Alan Menken, Lyrics by Howard Ashman & Tim Rice, Book by Linda Woolverton, Originally Directed by Robert Jess Roth, and Originally Produced by Disney Theatrical Productions ANNIE and DISNEY’S BEAUTY AND THE BEAST are presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI). All authorized performance materials are also provided by MTI. www.MTIShows.com For more information, visit the Theatre Bristol’s website or Facebook page, contact Theatre Bristol at 423-212-3625, or email info@ theatrebristol.org.
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2017 Season
Theatre Bristol Announces
Theatre Bristol is pleased to present its 2017 Season, featuring a year of favorites, including the spectacular "Disney's Beauty and the Beast" directed by Glenn Patterson at the Paramount Center for the Arts this summer.
Reached 51 Deserving Children
theloaferonline.com | January 3, 2017
SHOP WITH A COP
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and the entourage was escorted by officers to Walmart on Browns Mill Road. After the shopping spree, participants’ families were provided with a Christmas food box and ham as well as additional gifts for Christmas morning. “Spending time with these kids and being a small part of helping them to enjoy Christmas is the best feeling in the world,” said Johnson City Police Officer Brittney Eberhardt. “We are just so grateful to all of our community partners who made it possible.” Johnson City’s Shop With a Cop has nearly doubled in just one year thanks to a $7,500 donation from Graphic Disorder; fundraising efforts by Smith Brothers Harley Davidson; toys donated from Toys R Us; sponsorship of approximately 25 children by Keller Williams On Thursday, Dec. 15, the Johnson City Police Department’s Realty and Classic Title; monetary donations from citizens; Johnson City Parks and Recreation; Marco’s Pizza, Domino’s Pizza and Papa Support Wives and Girlfriends (SWAG) group hosted the John’s Pizza; Chick-Fil-A, West Market Street; and Walmart. second annual Shop With a Cop event at Memorial Park “We would love to see the event continue growing at this rate so that we can reach even more children,” Eberhardt said. “I feel like our Community Center. officers get more out of this event than the children do. It’s amazing to see how many of them are so selfless and want to spend their money Officers of the Johnson City Police Department – along with members of the buying for others. They embody the spirit of Christmas, and we are Washington County Sheriff’s Office, Tennessee Highway Patrol, Elizabethton Police privileged to be able to be part of it.” Department, Nuclear Fuel Services/Murray Guard Inc., and East Tennessee State University Public Safety – took 51 deserving children from the Johnson City school system on a shopping spree for Christmas. The children were paired with an officer, and the two discussed their Christmas list during a pizza party. The children were then loaded into party buses and limousines
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The Loafer ... THE place to look for info on events in the Tri-Cities!!!" Ash W
In Colonial America, Christmas was celebrated as a twelve day holiday with many traditions and customs. Does The Twelve Days of Christmas sound familiar? These twelve days of feasting, and merrymaking ended on January 6th or “Twelfth Night” with a grand celebration. On Saturday, January 7th from 10am-4pm and Sunday, January 8th from 10am-3pm the Washington County Militia will hold their monthly Militia Muster and Old Christmas Celebration. As you walk through the gates of Fort Watauga you will travel back in time to an 18th century Old Christmas “Jollification”. Each cabin in the fort will be the setting of Christmas traditions as celebrated by the settlers of different cultures on the colonial frontier. Many of our modern Christmas customs are taken from centuries old practices such as English Christmas Guns, the Irish Holly Wreath, the German Tannenbaum, Scottish First Footing, and the Dutch Sinterklaas. See how our Christmas practices of today are steeped in these old world traditions. Get the most out of the Holiday Season and visit Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park for a fun, entertaining, and educational family outing. Arrive ready to be filled with the spirit of Christmas. It’s an event that is sure to become a tradition with your family year after year. Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park is located at 1651 W. Elk Avenue in Elizabethton, TN. For more information contact the Park at 423-543-5808 or visit our websites at www. sycamoreshoalstn.org or http://tnstateparks.com/ parks/about/sycamoreshoals.
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OLD CHRISTMAS at Fort Watauga
Christmas isn’t over yet! Come to Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park and see how our colonial ancestors celebrated a holiday called “Old Christmas”.
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Here Comes
SO YOU SAID YES
Maybe your beloved went down on one knee with a ring in hand; maybe it was on a scoreboard at halftime; maybe it was a waiter taking a cover off a dish and there the ring was. No matter how the proposal happened, you said yes. That might have been the easiest part! Now you have to plan your wedding. Welcome to the world of checklists and endless decisions! Yes, that word: decisions. You’ll be facing so many that you can initially feel a little overwhelmed. Don’t fret, help is at hand. One of the most popular ways to acquire information (the key ingredient in decision-making) is to attend a Bridal Show. The one thing all Bridal Shows have in common is the availability of information. Many vendors and venues participate in the various shows in our region, all with options to fit many different budgets. So, attend a show - or several; talk with anyone and everyone; gather as much information as possible and start to get a better feel for what you want and what is possible. And no need to feel pressured; it is rare that you must make a decision on the spot – and not usually a good idea. Bridal Shows are first and foremost fact-finding missions. With free samples!
Here is a look at the four shows in the Tri Cities area. They are listed in chronological order. Up first on January 15 is the venerable Tri Cities Bridal Show, now in its 32nd year. It is being held at the Millennium Center in Johnson City that Sunday from 1:00 to 5:00 PM. Considered one of the two “Big Shows”, the Tri Cities Bridal Show features myriad vendors and wedding professionals and offers many opportunities to win prizes. The first 300 brides in attendance will receive a free subscription to Brides Magazine, a $20 benefit. For all the information and to pre-register, just go to www.tricitiesbridal.com or you can call 714-214-9799 or 423-612-3758.
Coming next is the other “Big Show”, The Pink Wedding Show, by The Pink Bride. It is being held in Kingsport at the Meadowview Conference Center on Sunday, February 5, from Noon-4pm. The Pink Bride is a well-known wedding resource and has been for many years. This show features a large array of vendors and wedding professionals. They pride themselves on gorgeous fashion shows showcasing the season’s hottest fashions for your entire wedding party. Get all the info at www.ThePinkBride.com or call 865-5313941.
The final local show takes place Saturday, March 11, 2017. It is hosted and sponsored by The Country Club of Bristol with The Loafer being a co-sponsor of this event. They invite you to tour their facilities while enjoying finger foods and champagne cocktails and enjoying an opportunity to meet with a select list of highly regarded local wedding professionals. This is a first-time event for the Country Club and is already creating quite a buzz. For information, reservations or vendor inquiries, please contact Amelie Galloway at (423) 646-4150.
On February 19, 2017, soon-to-be married couples and their guests are invited to the Simple Elegance Bridal Show hosted by Simple Elegance Tennessee Photography from 1:30 to 4:00 at the Jonesborough Visitors Center in Jonesborough TN. They see their focus as connecting couples with highly regarded local wedding professionals who are ready help make their wedding dreams come true while staying within their budget. All you need to know, including the latest list of participating vendors, is online at simpleelegancebridalshow.com or you can call 423.939.8215.
Regardless of which show or shows you attend, be ready to absorb. You don’t have to make decisions yet perhaps, but time can be growing short. Take it all in and load up with the best ammunition you can possibly have – information. Good luck to all you prospective brides from The Loafer. And remember, at the end of the day, it is your wedding, you and your spouse. Make YOURSELVES happy!
theloaferonline.com | January 3, 2017
The Bride!
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The Tri Cities Bridal Show Thirty Two years ago, the First Tri Cities Bridal Show was produced in Johnson City! Since that time, so much has changed about weddings, and the best way to find out about new trends, colors and suppliers is to visit Tri Cities Bridal Show. The collection of true professional wedding suppliers at the show strive to make your wedding day, uniquely special and tailored to your personal love story. There will be many door prizes and amazing deals from the exhibitors PLUS we will also be presenting a lucky couple with a Honeymoon Cruise from Cruise Planners by Kristin Small at the end of the show. There are mannequin models throughout the show displaying the latest wedding fashions. You will have an opportunity to view these beautiful dresses up close and personal. Weddings are one of the most celebrated and sometimes confusing rites of humanity. They are events that inspire hopeful dreams but also require a great deal of planning and thought. Our culture places much emphasis on weddings and the phrase that you hear a lot, is the ability to provide the ever elusive "Dream Wedding". The simple reality is that your wedding should be the wedding of your own dreams, not those conjured up by
other people trying to change your concept of what your wedding should be. That dream belongs to you so when considering the suppliers that will be assisting you with your wedding, make sure that they are willing to work with you to achieve your ideas and goals. That is what makes YOUR wedding unique. We have pre-qualified our exhibitors so that you can be assured that they are among the best companies available in this region. They will be at the 32nd Annual Tri Cities Bridal Show to assist you, develop ideas, simplify your planning process and most importantly create lasting relationships and friendships. Remember, the best people book far in advance (some as much as a year or more) so it is important to reserve your wedding planner, venue, entertainment, photographer, caterer and others as early as possible! This show is the oldest and largest wedding event produced in the Tri Cities of TN/VA and we hope that you find just those “right connections� to make your wedding exactly what you want it to be! Advance tickets are available at www.tricitiesbridalshow.com and there will be many other door prizes and giveaways plus the Grand Prize Cruise! The Tri-Cities Bridal show is produced in conjunction with Time Out Management and Co-Sponsored by Celebrate Rentals and Changes Medical Spa & Laser Center.
"Like last year, we want the bridal show to be informative and fun, so we have activities that brides and grooms-to-be will find different from other bridal shows," said Mathew Wooten owner of Simple Elegance Tennessee. "There will also be tours of several of Jonesborough's venues." At the show, brides will be able to finalize plans for their special day all in one place, or just gather ideas. Many Tri-Cities preferred wedding vendors will be exhibiting their goods and services—venues, bakers, caterers, photographers, florists, DJs, and more. During the Simple Elegance Bridal Show many door prizes will be given to attendees. One lucky soon-to-be married couple will win the grand prize provided by Treadway Travel Company of $700 towards their dream honeymoon vacation. Tickets for the Simple Elegance Bridal Show are $6.00 at the door or guests can pre-register online at simpleelegancebridalshow.com to save $2.00 per person and double their chances to win the grand prize. More information about the show, including the latest list of participating vendors, is online at simpleelegancebridalshow.com or you can call 423.939.8215. The Simple Elegance Bridal Show is connecting couples with highly regarded local wedding professionals who are ready help make their wedding dreams come true while staying within their budget.
A WEDDING TIP Courtesy of The Pink Bride
Create a Wedding Email Address An email address for wedding correspondence is a must. Do not use your personal email address. Emails about your wedding will start rolling in and you’ll want them all in one central place.
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Simple Elegance Bridal Show
Soon-to-be married couples and their guests are invited to the Simple Elegance Bridal Show hosted by Simple Elegance Tennessee Photography on February 19 from 1:30 to 4:00 at the Jonesborough Visitors Center in Jonesborough TN.
BUDGETS
Wedding Day
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Everyone needs one! Everyone’s got one! Budgets don’t have to be scary; they are simply a way of capping expenditures but allowing the maximum flexibility within the number, whatever it is, to achieve your dream wedding. Here are a couple tips: You need to get at least a general idea of what your budget is as close to the beginning of the planning process as you can. This calls for some candid conversations with your future spouse, parents if they are involved, and anyone else with a financial stake in this grand endeavor. Next, start doing some planning; attend Bridal Shows; talk to vendors and venues; get an idea of what different things can cost. But, and this is important, before you start eliminating things, make a list of everything you would like to have or do. Total that up, add 10% minimum, because that’s just the way it works, and come up with a total. Now compare that number to your budget number. This will tell you about how much you have left over, or, more likely, how much you must cut. You are now looking at individual costs and it becomes much easier to make those cuts in light of the overall budget number and how much you must eliminate. These discussions should again be all encompassing – you, your intended and all financial stakeholders. Remember – it is never easy – but the end result will be quite rewarding.
A WEDDING TIP Courtesy of The Pink Bride
Print out copies of your itinerary That way everyone knows what is happening when. This can save a lot of time and tears, and it has the ultimate benefit of people not asking you “What time is that happening again?” over and over. (And over.)
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Bridal Station
The Bristol
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The Bristol Bridal Station is a program of the YWCA Bristol that provides new, designer wedding gowns at affordable prices to women of all income levels. Through partnerships with designers and bridal shops, the Bristol Bridal Station is able to offer beautiful gowns at a fraction of retail price, typically up to 75% off. Bristol Bridal Station takes pride in providing every bride a personalized shopping experience in a boutique-style salon, located inside the YWCA building at 106 State Street, Bristol, Tennessee. All proceeds from Bristol Bridal Station benefit the programs of the YWCA and is truly “Couture for a Cause.” Each gown purchased helps support the free and subsidized community programs of the YWCA including a teen pregancy support program, the area’s only childcare program with fees based on household income. (Typically, quality childcare costs families approximately $7,000 per year and frequently prevents parents from being able to work or continue with their schooling.) Tech GYRLS, an afterschool program for at-risk adolescent girls, is another program that is offered at no free year-round to families in need. Bristol Bridal Station is unique in its mission, partnerships with nationwide bridal salons, and its operations. The Station is open to the public on Thursdays and Fridays from 11am -5pm and Saturdays from 10am – 3pm with no appointment necessary. All inventory will be offered at 20% off for a Winter Sale starting January 5th. And the Bridal Station certainly has “dreamy” gowns. The YW is fortunate to have partnered with over 30 bridal salons from locations all over the country including cities like Miami, Philadelphia, Charleston, and Dallas to bring an incredible selection of designer styles that are rare in our region. Bristol Bridal Station is proud to include styles from top designers like Vera Wang, Oscar de la Renta, Monique Lhuillier, Maggie Sottero, and others in their collection. The gowns that are donated by partnering bridal salons are NEW and typically floor samples and overstock selections. For more information about the Bristol Bridal Station or YWCA Bristol, please call 423.968.9444 or email s_burleson@ ywcabristol.org.
A WEDDING TIP Courtesy of The Pink Bride
Save The Dance Selecting your first dance song can be tricky. However, it is one of the best ways to demonstrate your personality as a couple. First, determine the type of dance you both want perform in front of all your guests. Then narrow it down by genre of music. Find lyrics that reflect your relationship. Most importantly, pick a beat to which you can actually dance.
As you walk through the gates of Fort Watauga you will travel back in time to an 18th century Old Christmas “Jollification” and will be able to experience the Christmas traditions of different cultures on the colonial frontier. The Old Christmas event is a free to all ages. During this same weekend we will also be opening the historic Carter Mansion for Christmas tours to provide our guests the opportunity to enjoy Christmas customs and New Year’s traditions of the 18th century in this beautiful historic home. Tours of the Carter Mansion will be offered on Saturday, January 7 at 11 am, Noon, 2 pm, and 3 pm; On Sunday at 1 pm, 2 pm, and 3 pm. The cost for tours is $5.00 for ages 13 through Adult; 12 and under are free. We can only accept cash for this event. Join us at Sycamore Shoals and the Carter Mansion for this one of a kind event and become immersed in the spirit of celebration during colonial days in America. In the late 18th century Christmas was celebrated as a twelve day holiday with many traditions and customs. Does The Twelve Days of Christmas sound familiar? These twelve days of feasting and merrymaking ended on January 6th or “Twelfth Night” with a grand celebration. Get the most out of the Holiday Season and visit Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park for a fun, entertaining, and educational family outing. Arrive ready to be filled with the spirit of Christmas. It’s an event that is sure to become a tradition with your family year after year. Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park is located at 1651 W. Elk Avenue in Elizabethton, TN. The Carter Mansion is at 1031 Broad Street. For more information contact the Park at 423-543-5808.
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Christmas Tours
CARTER MANSION
Plan a visit to Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park on Saturday, January 7th from 10am4pm or Sunday, January 8th from 10am-3pm for our annual Old Christmas at Fort Watauga celebration presented by the Washington County Militia.
PLAYS BARTER THEATRE
Doors Open at 7:15 PM Show Starts at 8:00 PM Tickets are $25 ($45 for weekend package including both concerts) Tickets available through Barter Theatre’s box office at BarterTheatre.com or (276) 628-3991
theloaferonline.com | January 3, 2017
AJ Croce
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A.J. Croce is a multi-instrumentalist roots-rock artist, known for his boogie-woogie piano playing reminiscent of Dr. John. He’s hard to pin down – collaborating with everyone from Willie Nelson, to the Neville Brothers, to Ben Harper, to Bela Fleck. Although he’s the son of the legendary Jim Croce, his life has not been charmed. Music has provided a refuge and an important connection to his father, who died when he was an infant. At age 4, a brain tumor left him completely blind for a time. Although he eventually recovered some sight, he turned to Ray Charles as an inspiration to start playing piano, and never looked back. Croce plays a mix of classic songwriting styles and boogie-woogie piano, not fitting solidly into any strict genre categories. Like his father, Croce crafts expert songs that lean both amusing and tender, yet with his own unmistakable stamp. If you like Dr. John, James Brown, Allen Toussaint, Elvis Costello, or Ray Charles, then AJ Croce’s red-hot live show will be right up your alley. From his debut as a jazz influenced blues-based artist to his evolution into a pop music iconoclast, singer-songwriter A.J. Croce has traveled a circuitous musical road The son of legendary singer-songwriter Jim Croce, A.J.’s career began with his
first tour at age 18 opening up for B.B. King. In the span of a 20+-year career, A.J. has headlined festivals, concerts and major listening venues worldwide. He has been seen and heard on shows including Jay Leno, David Letterman, Conan O’Brien, Austin City Limits, Good Morning America, E!, and CNN Croce’s performance Friday January 6th kicks off the 5th annual January Jams concert series at Barter Theatre. The series continues the next night with rootsrock favorite Justin Townes Earle January 7th. Weekend packages for both shows are available through Barter Theatre. The series continues through January 21st, and includes bluegrass legends like John Cowan, Del McCoury, and the Infamous Stringdusters, as well as hot up-and-coming acts Mandolin Orange and Parker Millsap. "A.J. Croce has wisdom beyond his years. With his music, he represents his generation with a profound sense of honesty in his lyrics and quality in his delivery. The future of entertainment is safe in his hands!" - Willie Nelson. AJ Croce performs Friday, January 6th 2017 @ The Historic Barter Theatre, Abingdon, VA
SHOWCASE THEIR NEW TUNES
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This weekly is a great way (especially someone not originally from this area) to keep abreast of the goings on in this beautiful community!"
John B
Dance off your holiday hangover with Folk is People as they showcase their eclectic indie-folk pop sound at The Acoustic Coffeehouse on January 4th. Florida natives, Strangerwolf, also join the bill. THIS IS A FREE SHOW that begins at 8PM. Folk is People is a Jacksonville-based indie folk band led by singer-songwriter and dad joke expert, Stacey Bennett. They are embarking on a southeast tour following their new release, The Devil Always Comes, a conceptual piece depicting the inner dissonance experienced when one reflects on and attempts to reconcile past misdeeds in the present pursuit of virtue. The record sounds like indie rock married a folk song and started a pop band. Folk is People has played alongside fellow indie sweethearts, Shovels and Rope, and recently headlined the 5 Points River City Pride Block Party in Jacksonville, FL. "Folk Is People is singer/songwriter Stacey Bennett’s fulltime gig, and she’s killing it. On her new album, The Devil Always Comes, there’s a raw clarity in her voice, with a bit of a yodel here and a growl there, that carries over some pristine indie folk pop. It’s loud, jangly, hopeful music, even when it’s sad and angry." -Meeghan Kane, Auntie Bellum Magazine.
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Folk is People
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Spotlight
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Open Mic
Guido Au’some and the Open Mic Playas
- SATURDAY - Jan. 7th -
- FRIDAY - Jan. 6th -
- TUESDAY - Jan. 3rd Red Eye Bar & Grill
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.
A.J. Croce
Justin Townes Earle
Barter Theatre
Barter Theatre
O’Mainnin’s Pub
Red Eye Bar & Grill
Open Mic
Nightshift Band
Open Mic
An evening with Dailey & Vincent
Shooter
Owen Ni
Chuck Brodsky
Nightshift Band
The American Bandwagon
Acoustic Coffeehouse
- WEDNESDAY - Jan. 4th -
Folk is People / Strangerwolf Acoustic Coffeehouse
Virginia High School
Sleepy Owl Brewery
Chilhowee Lion’s Club
Open Mic
Red Eye Bar & Grill
Hall & Johnson O’Mainnin’s Pub
- THURSDAY - Jan. 5th -
Jam with Matt Hall
Harlan County Grass
David Thompson’s Produce Bristol Music Show Palace Down Home
O’Mainnin’s Pub
Grow Well Music
Down Home
Acoustic Coffeehouse
Slanted Slightly Sideways
Whyskey Outlaws
O’Mainnin’s Pub
Divorce Lawyer
CJ’s Sports Bar
Bakkwoodz
Wellington’s Restaurant
Acoustic Coffeehouse
Country Club Bar & Grill
Open Mic
Adam McMillan
Crooked Old River
Red Eye Bar & Grill
Nostalgia Duo
Hungry I at The Apex
Crooked Road Rejects
Rock’s Wood Fired Pizza & Grill
Country Club Bar & Grill
Dan Deel
Kathryn Procter
Bone Fire Smokehouse
O’Mainnin’s Pub
Adam McMillan
Rainbow Asian Cuisine
Open Mic
Acoustic Coffeehouse
Laura Thurston
Bone Fire Smokehouse
- FRIDAY - Jan. 6rd -
The Kindest People, Floyd Strange and US, IF Capone’s
Acoustifried
Holston River Brewing Company
Annie Robinette & Roxanna Jane
The Willow Tree Coffeehouse & Music Room
Railway Express
Kingsport Moose Lodge #972
Bone Fire Smokehouse
- SATURDAY - Jan. 7th -
- SUNDAY -Jan. 8th -
Jake Orris / Roebuck / Deadwood Drifters The Hideaway
Open Mic
Red Eye Bar & Grill
Sterling Springs with Loose Leaves and Bye the Hour
Singer/Songwriter Night
The Diamonds
Acoustic Coffeehouse
Standing Rock Benefit
Bone Fire Smokehouse
Capone’s
at Rock’s Wood Fired Pizza
Studio Brew
Open Mic
Live Music
The Hideaway
Amethyst Kiah, Beth Snapp & Jenna Duvall
The Willow Tree Coffeehouse & Music Room
Before The Storm
Holston River Brewing Company
Open Mic
Red Eye Bar & Grill
- MONDAY -Jan. 9th -
Open Mic
Red Eye Bar & Grill
Open mic w/ Glen Diamond at Rock’s Wood Fried Pizza
Open Mic
Acoustic Coffeehouse
for show time & more details, visit
theloaferonline.com
Barter Theatre 127 W. Main St. Abingdon, VA Bone Fire Smokehouse at the Hardware 260 W Main St Abingdon Va 276-623-0037 Bristol Show Palace 515 Marion Avenue Bristol VA 276-494-6610 Capone’s 227 E Main St Johnson City 423-928-2295 CJ’S Sports Bar 516 Morelock St. Kingsport 423-390-1361 Country Club Bar & Grill 3080 W State St Bristol 423-844-0400 David Thompson’s Produce 251 Highway 107 Jonesborough 423-913-8123
KARAOKE
Down Home 300 W. Main St. Johnson City 423-929-9822
The Hideaway 235 E. Main St Johnson City 423-926-3896 Holiday Inn (Exit 7) 3005 Linden Dr Bristol Va 276-466-4100 Holston River Brewing Company 2621 Volunteer Pkwy Bristol TN Hungry I at the Apex 604 W. Market St. Johnson City Jiggy Ray’s 610 E. Elk Ave Elizabethton 423-722-3410 Kingsport Moose Lodge 935 Wilcox Drive #105. Kingsport 423-247-9109 The Lions Club 116 Industrial Park Rd. Chilhowie VA 276-646-3916 O’Mainnin’s Pub 712 State St Bristol 423-844-0049
Rock’s Wood Fired Pizza & Grill 3119 Bristol Hwy. Johnson City 423-262-0444 Sleepy Owl Brewery 151 E. Main St. Kingsport 423-390-8476 Studio Brew 221 Moore Street Bristol VA 423-360-3258 Virginia High School 1200 Long Crescent Drive Bristol VA 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
Rainbow Asian Cuisine 2412 N. Roan St. Johnson City 423-232-6688 Red Eye Bar & Grill 360 E Andrew Johnson Highway Greeneville TN
TUESDAY Karaoke w/ Sean at Dawg House Tavern Karaoke w/ Absolute Entertainment at Wingstop - Kingsport TN Karaoke At Numan’s - Johnson City TN *********************** WEDNESDAY Karaoke w/ Southern Sounds Karaoke at American Legion 8pm Karaoke w/ DJ Marquez at Holston River Brewing Company Karaoke w/ Absolute Entertainment at Smokey Bones - Johnson City TN Turn the Page Karaoke At VFW Post 2108 - Johnson City TN *********************** THURSDAY Karaoke w/ Absolute Entertainment at Macado’s - Kingsport Karaoke At Numan’s - Johnson City TN Karaoke at Jiggy Rays Pizzaria ***********************
FRIDAY Karaoke w/ Southern Sounds Karaoke at Sportsman’s Bar & Grill 9pm Karaoke at Kingsport Moose Lodge Karaoke w/ Reverb Karaoke at The Cottage 8:30 pm Turn the Page Karaoke at VFW Post 2108 - Johnson City TN Karaoke at CJ’s Sports Bar Karaoke At Elizabethton VFW - Elizabethton TN Karaoke w/ DJ Marques At Holiday Inn (Exit 7) - Bristol VA Karaoke w/ Absolute Entertainment at Moe’s Original BBQ Karaoke At Numan’s - Johnson City TN *********************** SATURDAY Karaoke at The Horseshoe Lounge Karaoke at Kingsport Moose Lodge Turn the Page Karaoke at VFW Post 2108 - Johnson City TN Karaoke w/ Absolute Entertainment At Macado’s - Kingsport Karaoke At Numan’s - Johnson City TN ***********************
19 theloaferonline.com | January 3, 2017
SPOTLIGHT DIRECTORY
Acoustic Coffeehouse 415 W Walnut St. Johnson City 423-434-9872
theloaferonline.com | January 3, 2017
20
ARMCHAIR ASTRONOMERS
A GROWING BREED After a half-century (!) of going outdoors and gazing around a few thousand starry nights, I have to admit that you can see plenty these days laid back in the living room recliner.
Stargazer
By Mark Marquette since 1996 stargazermarq@ gmail.com
Yup, armchair astronomers are a growing breed as the 21st Century communications revolution connects anyone with the entire Universe. Any space or astronomy interest worth their salt will have a social media source. And they are a great way to keep up-to-date with the latest discoveries and new information about anything in the Galaxy—and beyond. You can read tweets, posts, threads and google anything under the Sun, Moon and stars. Just like our U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, NASA loves to use Twitter! Last summer the American space agency sent the crystal-ball astrologers covering their butts as NASA tweeted that the Sun moves through 13, not 12 constellations (Ophiuchus the Serpent Handler is between Scorpius and Sagittarius). And on the social media front, there are a few shining stars who monopolize our attention, one of the most popular being second astronaut on the Moon, Edwin “Buzz” Aldrin. The 86-year-old Buzz has been globetrotting the past two years promoting a human mission to Mars and signing anything shoved under his nose. Following on Twitter the world’s most famous octogenarian is a blast as you can see the fun Aldrin is having in appearances with world leaders, celebrities and lots of kids. After all Aldrin IS the iconic image of a man standing on the Moon, with first moon man Neil Armstrong and their Apollo 11 spacecraft reflected in his gold space helmet. Moonwalker Buzz has more than compensated for his mental breakdown in 1970s, caused by the spotlight always being focused on Armstrong when the Apollo astronauts were standing side-by-side as their moonship landed on the Sea of Tranquility in July 1969. In November 2016, Buzz became the oldest person ever to set foot on Antarctica, but was quickly evacuated to a hospital in Australia after getting altitude sickness. Would Buzz be doing all of this world travel if there wasn’t the instant gratification of Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, etc.? Maybe not. But I sure bought one of his T-shirts promoting his cause to “Get Your Ass to Mars!” And like all hobbies and interests, Buzz Aldrin is just one of dozens of characters who promote and entertain. Two other astronomy favorites include Bill Nye the “Science Guy” and New York City’s astronomer Neil Degrass-Tyson. An armchair astronomer who commandeers the magic remote for the television can channel surf any cloudy night for space science shows on National Geographic, History and Weather channels. Stay away from that ancient alien stuff! Ancient alien claims are entertaining, but to me seem to extrapolate a lot from a few threads of factual evidence. And, if you can command that TV remote awhile, don’t forget the NASA channel and those daily live views of our orbiting International Space Station! Many hardcore telescope observers find comfort when skies are overcast skies by surfing Internet sites like CloudyNights.com or AstroMart.com. Not only can a
telescope lover drool over a wish list of used equipment, but there are plenty of astro forums that share the how-to and what-not-to-do! And don’t forget those lively alien life forums to keep everyone’s debate skills up to par. There are just a myriad of places to surf when looking for astronomy and space news. I suggest you google what you’re interested in: whether the Solar System, exoplanets, buying a telescope, building an observatory, astrophotography or just need a constellation star chart for the month. And don’t forget a good ol’ stargazing book in your hands while the winter fireplace turns carbon logs into energy. Libraries are a great source of beginner books as well as classics. But so is Amazon, where I’ve bought some of my favorite books for $1 plus the usual $3.99 shipping. In all my years, I highly recommend the classic by Chet Raymo “365 Starry Nights.” It has a great sky lesson or concept for every day of the year. Other recommendations are sky watching books by David Levy and Terrence Dickinson. For the Space Race there are writers Andrew Chaikin and Craig Nelson, among others. Dava Sobel has written some good astronomy history along with Owen Gingerich. And for star charts and constellation facts look for Wil Tiron, Roger Sinnott and the classic Norton’s Star Atlas. Some classic, sought after popularizers of astronomy are also cheap buys on the Internet. Look for any volumes by the great British amateur astronomer Patrick Moore. And there is a unique constellation-finder published in 1966 by H.A. Rey. Sound familiar? He’s the cartoonist of the monkey tales of Curious George! One area of our informationsaturated society that I have only begun to use are the many podcasts of astronomy and space news. Great for traveling with your headphones or in the car—Sirius/XM, IHeart Radio or Internet—you can “get your knowledge on” about the latest interplanetary missions at Mars, Saturn and Jupiter, or learn some hardcore astrophysics about Black Holes. You can also get spacey entertainment and knowledge from DVDs. I recently listened to the Hollywood blockbuster “The Martian” on CD after reading the book and seeing the movie twice. I was still captivated by the tales of Mark Watney on Mars while driving inside my pickup truck! (FYI, space engineers love the factual accuracy of the book and movie except for one thing: Martian winds would never get strong enough to topple a spaceship over on its side, the reason for the castaway dilemma). Final resources for the armchair astronomer are the popular monthly magazines, including “Sky & Telescope” and “Astronomy.” These are the staples for the novice to learn the sky and keep abreast of space news events. Good bookstores also have several Canadian and European publications that are worth the money. The ultimate “armchair astronomer” experience is at your local planetarium, where star lore and star fact are mixed together with a tantalizing visualization of our night sky. But wait! As I reach in my pocket, I see I have a planetarium program “app” on my Smartphone. One of the best is Stellarium, but there are many to choose from. Oh, yeah, a planetarium in my pants… Hey everyone! I’ve got a planetarium in my pants! What a world (and beyond) we live in.
While sun catchers hanging in our south-facing windows toss the rainbow of photons around the walls of our cozy homes, the days might be cold, but they are getting longer. The Sun is at its lowest point south of the year, the acute angle filtering sunlight into our rooms. But day-by-day, the Sun’s arc across the daytime sky is getting higher—adding about a 30 seconds a day to our daylight. But there’s still more than 13 hours of nighttime, which pleases stargazers exploring the glorious winter sky.
Tues. Jan. 3
A celestial spectacle at sunset with red Mars located between the waxing Moon and brilliant Venus, all happening in Aquarius. On this 2004 date in space history, NASA’s Mars Excursion Rover named Spirit successfully landed on the Red Planet, beginning a six-year exploration of the surface. Succumbing to battery failure in its sixth year after getting stuck in a hole, Spirit was guaranteed to last 90 days! The rover’s twin, Opportunity, landed a few weeks later but is still alive and well—and ready to celebrate its 13th birthday on Jan. 25th. Talk about NASA giving taxpayers their money’s worth!
Wed. Jan. 4
The Moon travels across the southern border of Pisces the Fishes, and actually crosses a piece of Cetus the Whale, which is not a zodiacal constellation. Just one of the celestial quirks of our night sky!
Thurs. Jan. 5
First Quarter Moon is in Pisces. On this 2005 date in space history, astronomers discovered an object larger than Pluto and nearly twice as far. Named Eris, it and a half-dozen other objects near the size of Pluto sparked
the debate that demoted the planet to “dwarf planet” status, joining Eris, former asteroid Ceres and others in the new classification.
Fri. Jan. 6
The Moon again slices through a piece of Cetus as it moves into the indistinct constellation Aries the Ram. The Moon moves its own diameter (one-half degree) eastward each hour and 12.5 degrees a day, about the width of your outstretched hand from thumb to pinky.
Sat. Jan. 7
On this 1610 date in space history, the great Italian scientist Galileo turned his new telescope to the planet Jupiter and discovered three of its four giant moons. The discovery convinced Galileo that the Earth orbited the Sun and our Moon orbited Earth—which was not accepted knowledge 400 years ago. A few nights later, Galileo saw a fourth Jupiter moon, Ganymeade, joining Io, Callisto and Europa. All four moons, and the cloud bands of Jupiter, are easily seen in any backyard telescope.
Sun. Jan. 8
Happy Birthday 75th birthday Stephen Hawking, the world’s premier physicists, and one of the longest survivors of ALS. Confined to a wheel chair for decades, Hawking has a brilliant mind that has pioneered modern day physics, which he popularized in his best-selling book “A Brief History of Time.”
Mon. Jan. 9
On this 1968 date in space history, unmanned Surveyor 7 lands on the Moon near the young crater Tycho, whose rays are visible during Full Moon. The famous crater was considered for an Apollo 20 landing site, which was cancelled. Also on this date in 1990, Space Shuttle Columbia was launched on a busy, 12-day mission included retrieval of Long Duration Exposure Facility, deployment of two communications satellites and another halfdozen experiments conducted by the crew of five.
21 theloaferonline.com | January 3, 2017
THIS WEEK
SKIES
Celestial events in the skies for the week of Jan. 3-9, 2017, as compiled for The Loafer by Mark D. Marquette.
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A NEW YEAR
APOLOGY
Batteries Not Included
By Andy Ross aross@ theloaferonline.com
I’d like to take a moment this week and apologize for my actions over the weekend. There were many news reports Sunday evening of my behaviour, I’d like to--in addition to apologizing--clear up some of these reports. First, let’s talk about the one there is cell phone footage of. Is that, in fact, Andy Ross standing in an empty fountain in Downtown Johnson City, screaming “Big bucks, no whammies?” Wearing just a robe, while a boom box played “Tainted Love” on repeat? Yes, I’m sorry, that was me. I’m deeply sorry I reached that stage over the weekend. I may have been feeling a bit too festive. I wish I could say this was the first time an incident like this has occurred--sadly, I can not. The biggest difference is that this time my “celebrations” were captured on video and shared across the internet. Yes, last time this happened it was a drained pool in my neighbor's backyard, and I was in there wearing a pair of bermuda shorts, singing glam rock songs really loud. I know not what it is that makes me want to go to water
containment areas when I am full of revelry, but that’s what happens. Secondly, let’s talk about what DIDN’T happen over the weekend. I did not steal a power wheeler I found in a back yard and take it for a joyride on the interstate. That’s hooey. Nor did I ride a horse down Roane yelling aloud “Keep Christmas in your heart, Ebenezer!” Despite what you may have seen on Facebook or Twitter, these are all acts of fiction cooked up by fools on the internet. Let this be my formal apology for what did happen. I want you, my dear readers, to know that I have sent letters similar to all business and institutions involved, and made monetary compensation where it was due. Here’s hoping the new year is a good one, and this isn’t a horrid omen of times to come. See you next week.
These tellers from a variety of faiths will celebrate their varied traditions in story, song and dance in this concert, which is a fundraiser to benefit the Katheleen M. Stern and Milagros M. Argueta Endowment for Storytelling at East Tennessee State University. This endowment will provide scholarships and an endowed chair in storytelling with a focus on therapeutic, homiletic and community-building story. The Stern-Argueta Endowment was established by Dr. Patrick Stern, a developmental behavioral pediatrician who retired from the Quillen College of Medicine at ETSU, and his wife of 47 years, Patricia Stern, in memory of his mother and their granddaughter. Storytellers representing Christian, Jewish, Muslim and Native American faiths will participate in the program. Those slated to appear include Rev. Vincent Dial (Christian) and Dr. Joseph Sobol (Jewish), Jonesborough; Terry Shinn (Cherokee, following the Lakota spiritual tradition), Marshall, North Carolina; and Taneem Aziz (Islam) and Wendolin Elrod (Christian), Johnson City. Elrod will tell the story of Milagros Argueta, the Sterns’ granddaughter, who died at birth and is buried at her grandparents’ historic home in Washington County. Master of ceremonies will be Dr. Delanna Reed, interim coordinator of the ETSU Storytelling Program in the Department of Communication and Performance. ETSU’s program is one of a select few fully accredited graduate programs in professional and applied storytelling. Students pursue a master of arts in professional communication with a concentration in storytelling and theater, focusing on either performance skills to prepare for a career as a professional storyteller or on applications of storytelling in other careers and roles. An anonymous donor has pledged a matching gift of up to $10,000 for every dollar raised before and during the “United We Stand” fundraising concert. Tickets are $10 each, and seating is limited. To reserve tickets, contact the Historic Jonesborough Visitors Center at 423-753-1010. For more information on the Stern-Argueta Endowment and ways to contribute, contact Michael C. Webb, ETSU director of development, at 423439-5775 or webbmc@etsu.edu. For more information on the ETSU Storytelling Program, contact Reed at 423-439-7601 or storytel@etsu.edu.
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INTERFAITH CONCERT
United We Stand
The lineup of storytellers has been announced for the “United We Stand” interfaith storytelling concert to be held Saturday, Jan. 7, from 2-5 p.m. at the McKinney Center, 103 Franklin Ave., Jonesborough.
theloaferonline.com | January 3, 2017
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2016 POP CULTURE EXCITING MOMENTS What a year 2016 was in Pop Culture. There were many sad moments with the loss of iconic music stars and celebrities. Those we lost will live on via their art and we will never forget them. This week I will highlight what I felt were a few of the most exciting moments in Pop Life from 2016.
Pop Life
By Ken Silvers ksilvers@ theloaferonline.com
In theatrical movies we saw the first live appearance of Superman (Henry Cavill) and (Ben Affleck) together in "Batman v Superman: Justice", which also featured the first big screen Wonder Woman (Gal Gadot), just in time 75th anniversary The three characters Justice League movie, and Wonder solo film in 2017. Another comic his first big screen appearance Boseman) in the film "Captain was a hit and will have Spider-Man (Tom along side Captain in 2017. Needless book films, adventures. On the s h e
action Batman Dawn of appearance of for the characters will return in the 2017 Woman will have her first book character making was Black Panther (Chadwick America: Civil War". The character his own solo film in 2018. The new Holland), made a first time appearance America and crew, and will have a new film to say 2016 was a fun year for fans of comic and 2017 will certainly provide more superhero
television side, 2016 was a big year for Dolly Parton, as had two hit television movies: "Dolly Parton's Coat of Many Colors" and "Dolly Parton's Christmas of Many Colors: Circle of Love." Both movies had massive ratings for NBC, and are the first of several Dolly movies based on her songs and life. Dolly also had a hit concert tour, and successful telethon for the tragic fires in Gatlinburg and surrounding area. The year in television also featured the extremely impressive and exciting season ending cliffhanger for season 6 of the HBO series "Game of Thrones." The episode was entitled "Battle of the Bastards", and as with nearly all episodes of this show, was very cinematic. In fact, there were many moments in the episode that had me cheering, and it should come as no surprise this show has won many Emmy awards. In the world of toys and collecting, the Funko POP vinyl figures had fans running everywhere to find rare and exclusive editions of the large headed figures. I would often overhear fans taking about how they are searching for "such and such figure" and were continuing their quest until successful. If you have never looked at these toys/collectibles, I suggest doing so as you will be amazed at their variety. The toys have the expected comic book, movie and television characters, but have even expanded into the world of sports. One of the more uplifting musical highlights of 2016 was the Justin Timberlake release "Can't Stop the Feeling!", from the movie "Trolls". I dare you not to smile or dance when you hear this feel good tune. Timberlake, a Tennessee native, brought much needed musical smiles to us via this song during the exhausting and stressful election year. Keep it up in 2017 Justin, we need more music like your song. Being the proud Geek I am, I certainly cannot skip over one of top events in the world of comic books for 2016: The DC comics rebirth, which was deemed an overwhelming success. The "Rebirth" comics sold 12 million physical copies in the first three months alone (according the the LA Times), and at that point five other titles still had not launched. The comic that sparked it all, "DC Universe: Rebirth" has gone back to press four times! Needless to say, 2016 was an extremely successful year for DC comics. I hope you enjoyed Pop Life in 2016, and let's hope for more fun in pop culture for 2017. Happy New Year and thanks for reading Pop Life and The Loafer!
Less than three weeks from now, we’ll all be welcoming a new tenant at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, though just how welcome he will be seems to be a matter of some debate.
The Trivial Traveler
By Brian McManus brian@ theloaferonline.com
Nevertheless, the White House (or more formally, the Executive Mansion) is inextricably linked to the Presidency, although such was not always the case. In fact, our first Commander in Chief, George Washington himself, never spent a night there. Indeed, Washington DC was our third capital, after Philadelphia, and prior to that, New York City. So if the President (not to mention the rest of the government) was holed up for a time in Philly and New York, it begs the question, what were his accommodations like? You’d think that with all of those ‘George Washington Slept Here’ plaques marking second-rate tourist attractions across the former colonies, we’d know a little more about where he slept during his entire presidential administration, wouldn’t you? Well, until fairly recently, you’d be plain out of luck. Actually, you’d still be out of luck if you went to New York hoping to see where our first president lived. He occupied two different homes during the two years of his term that the government was based out of New York, and both are long gone. Historic preservation sounds wonderful on paper, but in this case, both sites are located in what is now the financial district, so if you want to stand in the same spot where Washington lived during that era, you’ll likely be doing it in the lobby of a forty-story bank. But in Philly, things are different. A recent addition to the Independence National Historic Park – which includes Independence Hall, the Liberty
windows in a rounded, bay-style arrangement (forgive me, I know nothing about architecture). This is where President Washington would stand, with his back to the windows, to receive guests in a formal setting. The idea was preserved in future presidential offices, including the oval rooms in the center of the White House and eventually, the Oval Office in the West Wing that we all recognize today. So, now you can stand in the footprints of President Washington in the original Oval Office. Now how cool is that?
25 theloaferonline.com | January 3, 2017
THE PRESIDENT’S RESIDENCE PRECEDENCE
Bell Center, and other important stuff – is a partial reconstruction of the presidential residence. Since the original house was demolished in 1832, the President’s House (a lot of thought went into that name) is now an open-air pavilion that occupies the same footprint of the original structure, with low walls indicating the building’s shape, where the doors and windows were, etc. It’s really, really well done, with an important focus on preserving what little remains of the archeological site itself. You can see parts of the building’s foundation, a few artifacts that were unearthed during the pavilion’s construction, and a special exhibit on slavery in Philadelphia during the colonial and early federal period. It seems that Washington did in fact bring a contingent of…um, uncompensated servants…with him. (Their quarters were discovered along with those artifacts noted above.) To me, the most interesting feature of the President’s House though, is that with the restoration of the building’s footprint, you can see a set of
theloaferonline.com | January 3, 2017
26
AQUARIUM
THE TENNESSEE
Appalachian Wanderers
By Jason & Daniel Worley jdworley@ theloaferonline.com
Grinning alligators are just one of the many animals on display in the delta region of the aquarium.
Chattanooga is quickly becoming one of our favorite cities to visit. The city has always been the home of some of Tennessee’s favorite attractions, such as Ruby Falls and the Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park. Who hasn’t heard of Rock City? With the hundreds of iconic “See Rock City” barns peppering highways across the Southeast, the scenic gardens high atop Lookout Mountain are no doubt familiar to everyone, whether or not they have ever been there. Yes, the River City is fast becoming one of the Southeast’s prominent destinations. Situated between the growing metropolises of Nashville and Atlanta, the population has been steadily increasing every year until now it is poised to steal Knoxville’s crown as the state’s third largest city. Yet, while new condos and high rises climb new heights in downtown, the city remains a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts. Situated at the base of the Cumberland Plateau with the Blue Ridge Mountains thirty minutes to the east, there is no lack of outdoor adventures waiting for those who live here. Over the next year, we look forward to exploring more of this region with our readers and discovering everything The Scenic City has to offer. For our last excursion of 2016, we ventured down to revisit our favorite of Chattanooga’s myriad destinations: the Tennessee Aquarium. Perched next to
the scenic waters of the Tennessee River, the aquarium has been a fixture of the downtown skyline since it first opened in 1992. A work of art in itself, the buildings’ glass canopies jut into the sky and have become the icon of the city, as have the Sunsphere in Knoxville or the Memphis Pyramid. The aquarium was the first phase in an extensive downtown and riverfront revitalization project that has transformed the entire city’s landscape. When it first opened, the complex only included the River Journey building, featuring primarily freshwater exhibits in contrast to the vast majority of other aquariums across the nation. In 2005, an expansion added the Ocean Journey building with fantastic saltwater displays. It doesn’t really matter which building you explore first, but we began with River Journey for this visit. An escalator ride whisks you to the top of the building, where you begin your journey down the mighty Tennessee River. Here in the glass canopy, a small stream trickles through a cove hardwood forest landscape that you might find in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The playful antics of the river otters here can keep you entertained for hours, as they summersault and tumble down the hillsides to splash in the water. Further on, exhibits display native fish such as chubs and darters which are unique only to our East Tennessee streams. Many of these beautiful fish are in danger from habitat loss, exotic invaders, and pollution. Further along, the Tennessee River meets the mighty Mississippi, and featured creatures include alligators, caimans, and waterfowl that would inhabit the Mississippi Delta region in Louisiana. The rivers of the world have their place here as well, with giant fish from the Amazon rainforest, territorial cichlids from Lake Tanganyika in Africa, and familiar faces such as Japanese koi or shimmering cardinal fish. The highlight of the tour is the recreation of Lake Nickajack, with fish from our very own Tennessee River. The colossal tank is home to gar, largemouth bass, crappie, freshwater drum, paddlefish, bluegill, and many other specimens that call the area home. Ocean Journey is truly a magical experience for those who love wildlife and the sea. Once again, an escalator takes us up to a glass canopy, this time filled with a tropical rainforest home to hundreds of butterflies. Every hue of the rainbow is present here as the orchids and butterflies make the entire area a kaleidoscope of color. Hold your hand out, and you might just make a new friend. This area will also be home to a new lemur exhibit scheduled to open in early 2017, so we will have to return soon!
continued on page 27
Between releasing four full-length-criticallyacclaimed albums, constant touring, multiple stints in rehab, a new found sobriety, being born Steve Earle's son, amicable and not-so-amicable break-ups with record labels, and facing the trials and tribulations of everyday life, it's safe to say JTE has quite the story to tell. “Absent Fathers,” his fifth album (and first ever on Vagrant Records) serves as the perfect platform for such narrations. As a recently married, sober man JTE writes from a point of maturity and content we've not seen before on past records. "One day I just realized it's not cool to die young, and it's even less cool to die after 30," Justin states as he reflects on a life past and his newly found clarity. What he's created is material that's raw, honest and personal in a way he hasn't touched upon since his debut EP, Yuma. Special guests If Birds Could Fly Hailing from East Tennesee, Brittany & Andrew Carter make beautiful folk/Americana music together. Brittany's haunting voice blends well with the harmonies Andrew offers, and together they pack in tight instrumentation, percussion and original lyrics. Discount ticket packages are available for individual weekends, or for the entire series. Packages only available through Barter Theatre’s box office at (276) 628-3991.
continued from page 26 Once you ride back down to the lower level, its time to enter the dark interior of the aquarium and step into the ocean itself. So many amazing creatures and exhibits lie in every direction, it’s impossible to remember them all. Some that stand out by far are the jellyfish. These amazing creatures are displayed as the works of art that they truly are. Sea nettles, upside-down jellyfish, and countless others call for your attention and will leave you entranced by their movements. The grand finale here is one you have seen from the moment you entered the main building. The central coral reef tank is home to sharks, angelfish, puffers, stingrays, and every other sea creature imaginable. Dozens of species can be found in every corner of the reef and its almost impossible to find them all. We were surprised with a close encounter with the stars of the tank: two enormous sea turtles who came right to the glass, much to the delight of everyone present. Before exiting the aquarium, you actually pass underneath this main tank in a rocky tunnel which makes you feel as if you are really in the middle of the sea. If you have never visited the Tennessee Aquarium, we highly recommend it. While it may be farther away than Ripley’s Aquarium in Gatlinburg, it is by far a much better experience. Not only is there twice as much to see, but the Tennessee Aquarium is run by a non-profit organization which gives back to nature by conducting research and rehabilitation programs for injured or threatened wildlife. To check the aquarium’s schedule, purchase tickets, make a donation, or find out about other adventures offered by the Tennessee Aquarium such as the Tennessee Riverboat Excursion, visit tnaqua.org.
27 theloaferonline.com | January 3, 2017
with special guest If Birds Could Fly
Justin Townes Earl BARTER THEATRE January 7, 2017 Tickets $25
Once compared to a man who wears many suits, in thirty-two short years Justin Townes Earle has experienced more than most, both personally and professionally.
theloaferonline.com | January 3, 2017
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LOVE THOUGHTS
I am no longer sure that I know what love is. So far from me has it gone, comprehending the truth of it escapes me.
The Casual Word
By Langley Shazor Follow Langley at TheCasualWord
Due to its intangible nature, attempting to compare it to another’s experience has proven to be futile. Likewise, leaning on priorm moments of being engulfed by this feeling to attain clarity have been met with similar results. I look to the Word for understanding; 1 Corinthians lends some insight. But this is a brotherly love, whose attributes should be conveyed by all for all. They are certainly applicable to romantic love and should be shown in earnest there as well. Still, what is that force which moves us from platonic to intimate? At first glance (literally & figuratively), one would surmise that it is physical attraction which begins to cross that threshold. So often we take the pining over someone’s outward beauty as indication of some supernatural force drawing us toward them. How do we separate and verify that this rush of desire is more than sheer lust? Moving to the next layer, we look at the mind. Is there and intellectual attraction? Is there a subconscious connection and similar pattern of thinking; the likes of which leads us to believe that there is more at play than casual association? Not being able to distinguish this information from high quality, genuine friendships, we must again delve a bit deeper. As we reach the heart, soul, and essence of an individual we begin to wonder if this is the source. Does this longing stem from a link that transcends all understanding? Or course we want to claim this answer; the truth. Because you don’t know, but you just know. Isn’t that the unanimous decision? That must be the conclusion of the matter since it is unexplainable. Forgive my skepticism, but let me ask you this: if a person hides their true nature, creating a façade or false image, did you love them? How is it possible to love someone that you did not know? Or did you simply love the idea of the person you thought they were and hoped they would become? Ergo, how can true love be built on deception? Logically, I know there is no logical explanation for these questions; as love itself is an illogical conception. I do not disbelieve its existence, nor do I wish to persuade anyone to question their own feelings. I am simply curious. Looking back at my own life, I wonder if I have ever known true love’s presence. Looking forward, I ponder on its ability to commune with me.
The Historic Jonesborough Dance Society will kick off the 2017 contra dance season on January 6th and 7th with a special event spanning two days. “A New Year’s Affair” will feature nationally renowned bands including Playing with Fyre and Buddy System at the Jonesborough Visitors Center, 117 Boone Street. Calling the dance will be the ever popular combo of Will Mentor from Vermont and Beth Molaro from Asheville, NC. Admission for the entire event is $40, $30 for HJDS Members and Students. Session tickets are available for Friday night, Saturday day and Saturday night at anewyearsaffair2017.eventbrite.com or dancers can pay at the door. “This is our 12th year in Jonesborough. It’s hard to believe that we have produced close to 350 dances in that time, but we are even more thrilled to have these two bands to start the year”, adds event organizer, David Wiley. A New Year’s Affair will offer over 12 hours of contra, waltz and techno contra over two days. Beginners are welcome but there will be no formal lessons offered. Buddy System melds the driving beats of electronic dance music with live fiddle tunes and improvisation. “They have been on tour for over a year now and keep getting better and better” offers David Wiley, event organizer. “We are very lucky to have them here again this year”. Noah VanNorstrand is known for his playing with The Great Bear Trio, one of the hottest and most influential dance bands in the country, as well as the Andrew and Noah Band and Giant Robot Dance. His driving rhythm, epic dynamics, creativity, and uniquely rocking style have given him a loyal following. Julie Vallimont performs nationwide with the bands Nor’easter, Firecloud, and more. She is known for
her driving piano style, skill in matching tunes to dances, and music with heart. The pioneer of this new live form of techno contra, she fuses musical worlds and strives to create a transcendent dance experience. VanNorstrand playing fiddle, foot percussion, didgeridoo, vocals and Vallimont working computer, piano, synths, accordion, and jaw harp create live sonic landscapes that'll put you in a dance trance. The techno contra starts Saturday night at 9:00pm. Playing with Fyre returns for 2017 after wowing the dancers during last year’s performance and leaving them full of dance bliss and joy. The band is made up of journeyman pianist and composer, George Paul. For years, Paul performed with the Avant Gardeners, one of the premier contra and swing dance bands in the country. Their music consisted of American hybrid variety tunes, facile improvisations, and a range of performing styles from traditional swing, Celtic and old time. Rob Zisette has played fiddle since age 8, somehow continuing to get better despite few lessons and little practice. That would take all the fun out of it! Rob is the intellectual in the band, getting lost in his world of improv, unaware of what’s going on around him– like the “hup” (the signal to change tunes), or noticing that the dancers have stopped dancing, or that it is time to pack up the gig and go home. Rob is also famous for remembering that he left his fiddle home just as we are getting to the airport. He is easy going with a pleasant dry wit. When Rob starts to play, the rest of us just go along for the ride. Rob recently graduated from Virginia Tech majoring in physics and math. He’s now enjoying a respite from classroom work by playing lots of music with Playing with Fyre and his family band, Toss the Possum. Steve Kemble rounds out the band with a full percussion set up. Will Mentor and Beth Molaro are nationally renowned callers who loving coming to Jonesborough. For more information on this dance event or any upcoming events, please contact David Wiley at 423-534-8879 or visit www. historicjonesboroughdancesociety. org. Or Historic Jonesborough Dance Society on FACEBOOK.
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CONTRA DANCE RETURNS 12th Year in Jonesborough
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RUGER AND
THE LCP 380 The LCP pistol was introduced by Ruger in January of 2008 at the Shot Show in Las Vegas, Nevada. Shot Show is an annual tradeshow for the firearms, hunting, and shooting industry.
Outdoor Life
By Matt Messer matt@ theloaferonline.com
Ruger has produced and sold over 1 million LCP 380 Pistols from 2008-2015. LCP stands for lightweight compact pistol, and that is exactly what it is, one of the smallest 380 caliber pistols on the market weighing less than 10oz and having an overall length of 5.16 inches. It will fit in the palm of your hand! As you can tell by the production numbers, Ruger hit a home run with its introduction of the LCP. the pistols were hard to get for all of 2008 and almost all of 2009, with demand outpacing supply, many dealers sold the pistol for prices well over Manufacture suggested retail. Almost all firearms dealers had long lists of customers requesting the new pocket size 380 from Ruger. Shortly there-after other brand names such as Beretta, Smith and Wesson, Taurus and even Kimber got on board with the pocket 380. Therefore the 380-craze saturated the market creating more competition. It seemed that the original LCP had fallen behind in innovation and customer satisfaction. These factors led Ruger to revise the product thus leading to the new generation of the famous 380 pocket pistol that started it all. Ruger has introduced the new LCP II in the fourth quarter of 2016. The new and improved LCP II is virtually the same size as the original LCP, but at first glance it looks considerably different. The pistol breaks down the same way as the original and the size and weight is virtually the same. The biggest improvement in my mind is the trigger pull. The original
LCP was a double action, breach lock, firing mechanism. Contrary to the LCP II being a single action, breach lock and based on the LC9’s blade safety trigger design. The LCP II has a trigger pull of 5lbs 11 ounces being less than the original LCPS trigger pull of 6.5 lbs. Another major improvement is that the LCP II locks the slide open on the last round, also known as, “last round hold open”. The LCP one can be manually locked open but lacks this feature, which means you either have to count how many rounds you fire or snap the trigger on an empty chamber before reloading. With last round hold open you simply notice the slide has locked back, insert a new fully loaded mag and slightly tug the slide rearward and it will fall forward chambering a round. Which greatly reduces reloading time. Another big plus for the LCP II is the fact that Ruger installed a taller set of black sights that remind you more of a Novak style sight system. Like the original LCP, the sights could be hard to pick up in some situations and can be easily fixed by adding a splash of red fingernail polish to them. The frame of the pistol on the LCP II has a more aggressive grip stippling, to help keep the pistol in your hand while firing or under stress with sweaty palms. All in all, I feel like the LCP II has been greatly improved over the original and Ruger has addressed most of the customer complaints with the original LCP. I don’t think Ruger is going to see such strong demand for the LCP II like they did with the introduction of the original LCP. However, that would be hard to duplicate with such staggering sales generated from a totally new product. Ruger has however brought their product up to par to better compete against other major manufacturers in the pocket size 380 pistol category and carries a retail price of $350 dollars.
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Answers on page 34
Good Boy is a 4 year old Beagle mix. He is neutered and up to date on all vaccines. This sweet guy has been at the shelter for awhile. Start out the New Year with this furrbaby!!
Jasper and Flash are 6 year old Doxie brothers that are deeply bonded. These little fellows have been at the shelter for awhile as well. They are sweet and friendly and must be adopted together. They are neutered and up to date on all vaccines
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
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PETS
OF THE WEEK
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THINGS TO DO Teaching on The Crooked Road Course Offered at WCC The rich history and musical traditions of Southwest Virginia will be examined in a Wytheville Community College course designed to provide K-12 teachers with the materials and methods they need to incorporate “The Crooked Road” into their lesson plans. This will be a hybrid course involving both in-class and online instruction. Teaching on the Crooked Road will be taught by David Winship, a retired public school teacher and former curator/education Director for Bristol’s Birthplace of Country Music (BCM). Winship developed the Living Legacies program of the BCM for the Library of Congress Folklife Collection and has provided the Smithsonian Institution with traditional music materials. The Crooked Road: Virginia’s Heritage Music Trail supports tourism and economic development in Southwest Virginia by celebrating and preserving this Appalachian region's unique musical and cultural heritage. The Trail itself covers 330 miles and connects Rocky Mount in Franklin County to Breaks Interstate Park in Dickenson County. The class will meet for on the third Saturday of the beginning months of 2017 (January through May) from 1 – 9 p.m. at Wytheville Community College and will include attendance at WCC’s Old Time and Bluegrass Jamboree from 7 –9 p.m. There will be one Saturday field trip to the two country music museums in Bristol and the Carter Family Fold in Hiltons, VA. The cost is $225.00. Music instruction is not a core element of the course and it is not necessary to play an instrument to participate. This course is
offered through Wytheville Community College – Workforce Development. For further information, contact Perry Hughes, Director, Workforce Development, at phughes@wcc. vccs.edu or 276-223-4757.
Gray Fossil Site & Museum January Calendar of Events Now - Sunday, January 15th 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. Programs announced periodically throughout each day. Tuesday, January 17th Sunday, February 19th Be Miocene! Our love of fossils will never go extinct, and we hope yours won't either! Join us and discover why we love the fossil specimens found right here in our "backyard" and why they have a special place in our hearts. Programs announced periodically throughout each day. 1212 Suncrest Drive, Gray, TN 37615. 423-439-3659
Solid Waste Services reminds customers of holiday procedures With the Christmas and New Year’s holidays upon us, Johnson City Solid Waste customers are reminded that garbage and recycling collection will be on regular schedule this year. Additionally, citizens are asked to please recycle their gift boxes, cardboard packaging and paper. The City does not accept foil paper or most plastic packaging. Plastic marked with a 1 or 2 is acceptable. For added convenience, the City offers five drop-off sites for recyclables. Please visit http://www.
johnsoncitytn.org/publicworks/ solidwaste/recycling/ for more information and locations. After Christmas, customers may leave live Christmas trees at the curb to be picked up on regular brush collection routes. Trees must be cleared of all decorations. Trees may also be taken to the Cash Hollow Convenience Center, 193 Cash Hollow Road. Please visit http:// w w w.w a s h i n g t o n co u n t y t n . org/departments/solid_waste/ locations for more information. Please call Solid Waste Services at (423)975-2792 with any questions.
MPCC to offer Finding Mindfulness Through Meditation class
Volunteer needed to serve on Energy Authority The Johnson City Board of Commissioners will consider an appointment to the Johnson City Energy Authority (formerly the Johnson City Power Board). The Authority works to ensure customers are provided with reliable electric service at the lowest reasonable rates consistent with good business practices by approving policies, regulations, rate structures, and annual budgets. Appointees serve four-year terms. Potential appointees must be Johnson City property owners and must be residents of the City for no less than one year. Any citizen who is interested in serving may apply online at www.johnsoncitytn.org/boards; may pick up an application at the Municipal and Safety Building, 601 E. Main St.; or may call 4346009 for an application to be mailed or faxed. Deadline for submitting an application is Jan. 20. Applications are kept on file for current year only.
Memorial Park Community Center, 510 Bert St., will offer 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.- Senior Services to host 5 p.m. For more information, Invigorating Wellness series Senior Services at Memorial please call 423-434-5749. Park Community Center, 510 Bert
St., will offer a quarterly series on Invigorating Wellness starting this month. Invigorating Wellness will highlight several complementary health approaches identified by the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Medicine. Each session costs $5 and will be held from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Refreshments will be served. The schedule is as follows: • February 21, 2017 – Massage Therapy with Janet Rice, MT • May 16, 2017 – Chiropractic with Dr. Timothy Dunne • August 15, 2017 – Supplements/ Herbs with Seth McLaughlin For more information and to pre-register, please call (423)4346237.
Introduction to Buddha and Buddhism. Curious about Buddha? Have questions about Buddhist beliefs? Come learn the basics of Buddhism! Free! January 14, 2017, 1-5pm Appalachian Dharma and Meditation Center 108 W. 10th Street, Johnson City www..dharma4et.org
Cryptogram: So far as I can remember, there is not one word in the Gospels in praise of intelligence. Drop Quote: "The modern little red riding hood, reared on singing commercials, has no objections to being eaten by the wolf."
WITH BACH
We don’t need to be reminded that the past year was--and continues to be--a particularly emotional and trying experience for most of us, although there were may joyous moments as well.
Kelly’s Place
By Jim Kelly since 1989 jkelly@ theloaferonline.com
One positive note is that I once again faithfully kept the same New Year’s Resolution that I made some twenty odd years ago. And that is vowing to get through another year without watching the movie “The Sound of Music.” Not that I have anything against this movie, mind you, but I realized one day that I had never seen the movie and that not watching it would make an ideal New Year’s Resolution. Rather than presenting you with my usual list of wacky and slightly irreverent New Year predictions--realizing that nothing is more wacky or irreverent than reality itself-I urge you to spend this first week of 2017 with J.S. Bach. I take my cue, not only from a lifetime of listening to Bach, but also from a notice I read about the upcoming Red-Bull-sponsored tour of the Flying Steps dance troupe, who will be presenting their sixth annual mash-up of Bach’s “Well-Tempered Clavier” and breakdancing. According to a piece in 303 Magazine, this seemingly improbable matching of eighteenth century keyboard artistry with twentyfirst century breakdancing originated with the troupe’s founder, Vartan Bassil, who was excited by “the idea of replacing a ballerina doing pirouettes on her toes with a breakdancer doing head spins.” We can only wonder what Bach might think of such a combination, but given the very eclectic nature of his genius, he probably would like the Flying Steps’ interpretation. Of course, Bach purists (and there are far too many of them hanging around) are horrified at the mere suggestion that their idol has any relevance outside his eighteenth century world. But I like to think Bach would enjoy breakdancing more than an evening being surrounded by his party-pooping purists. In any event, check out YouTube for a sampling of Bach and Breakdancing. At this point I am reminded of how the late concert organist Carlo Curley always introduced Bach as “the inventor of rock ‘n’ roll” during his concerts; and I also have fond memories of having breakfast with Carlo at the Waffle House when he performed in Knoxville (he figured he would encounter very few to no Bach purists at his favorite breakfast hangout). As Paul Elie reminds us in his fascinating 2012 book REINVENTING BACH, Bach has had a very active life since his death in 1750, particularly as a recording artist in a medium that was unknown during his lifetime. In fact, we can safely say that Bach has enjoyed his greatest popularity as a recording artist. There are the famous (and moving) rediscoveries of the unaccompanied cello suites by Pablo Casals, and the many orchestral, vocal, and organ works that have been preserved on vinyl, tape, disc, and streaming (needless to say, I have a Bach channel on my Pandora, in close proximity to my Allman Brothers, Ariana Grande, Booker T. and the MGs, and Blink 182 channels). And let’s not forget
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BREAKDANCING
the many ways Bach has influenced pop music, with hits by The Toys (“A 35 Lover’s Concerto,” 1965, inspired by a minuet from “The Anna Magdalena Notebook”), Procol Harum (“A Whiter Shade of Pale,” 1967, based ever so slightly on “Orchestral Suite No. 3 in D Major”), Apollo 100 (“Joy,” 1972, a speeded-up pre-disco version of “Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring”), pianist Joshua Rifkin’s baroque renditions of Beatles tunes (1965) as “performed” by J.S. Bach, and the Beatles themselves, particularly the Bach-like harpsichord solo in “In My Life” (from Rubber Soul, 1965) performed by none other than George Martin and played back on the tape at double speed. And what would Halloween be like without hearing at least one ominous version of Bach’s “Toccata And Fugue In D Minor”? (an incredible piece that should be heard outside the context of Halloween). As a jazz fan, I particularly enjoy the Jacques Louissier Trio’s improvisations on Bach tunes, as well as The Modern Jazz Quartet’s 1973 tribute to Bach, “Blues On Bach.” And this only scratches the surface. Too bad Bach is not around to hear all this stuff. Well, maybe he could be spared the Apollo 100 record! Before we leave the realm of pop culture, we should mention two rather different recordings of the Bach repertoire. First we have a true relic from the disco era, Louis Clark And The Royal Philharmonic’s series “Hooked On Classics” (1981) that featured particularly irritating and uninteresting orchestral renditions of classical music accompanied by a disco drum machine track. After trying to endure familiar pieces by Mozart, Brahms, Beethoven, Handel, and Mendelssohn, we are treated to a six minute segment devoted to Bach, accompanied once again by the same disco beat. If you are not familiar with Bach’s work, please don’t let this be your introduction. You might want to start with a true classic of modern recording, Wendy Carlos’ 1968 album “Switched On Bach,” featuring one of the first recordings of the Moog synthesizer, painstakingly multi-tracked one note at a time (the Moog could only play one note at a time, not chords) by Carlos. This album is still selling copies and is one of the landmarks in classical music recording history. Of course, purists derided the album for its use of synthesized rather than acoustic sounds, but don’t listen to them. It still is a pretty remarkable achievement, even in light of the incredible strides synthesizers have made since the late 1960s (Carlos rerecorded the album in 1973 and again in 2000 using state-of-the art synthesizers). The world of J.S. Bach is pretty inexhaustible, so I won’t try to even scratch the surface with this column. But I will leave you with a recommendation and a parting quote. My recommendation is that you listen to Bach’s “Brandenburg Concerto, No. 6” this month. It is one of my favorite pieces, and I think it perfectly captures both our feelings of apprehension and expectation as we prepare for what’s in store this month and for the rest of the year. And it’s a beautiful piece in a very complex way. As Alex Ross says in his current “New Yorker” column on Bach, the composer’s music (he is analyzing the “St. John Passion”) gives us the “air of being lost in a world of ungraspable dimensions” and “can be more beautiful than anyone’s, but it refuses to blot out the ugliness of the world.” And this is why we need Bach this year, along with so many other musicians--although I won’t, rather ironically, be watching “The Sound Of Music”. See you next week as we look forward to another year of “Kelly’s Place.”
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