The Loafer July 26th by The Loafer

2 | July 26, 2016 | theloaferonline.com

live with live music

Volume 30 • Issue #34 Publisher Luci Tate

happenings

Editor Graphic Arts Director Don Sprinkle

What Is Music?

Cover Design Bill May

Texas Sweethearts @ Theatre Bristol

BANDS!

Advertising Dave Carter Patti Barr Sam Jones Shawn Hale Coco Enriquez Judy Mahler

Cheesecake Waltz & Workshop

MORE BANDS!

Home Tour @ VA Highlands Festival

Contributing Staff Jim Kelly Andy Ross Ken Silvers Mark Marquette Brian McManus Joshua Hicks Brian Bishop Daniel Worley Jason Worley Langley Shazor Distribution Jerry Hanger Teresa Hanger

10 AND MORE BANDS! 12 STILL MORE BANDS! 13 Shaped-Note Convention Concert

columns & reviews 24 25 27 29

Published by Pulse Publishing, LLC., P.O. Box 3238, Johnson City, TN 37602 Phone: 423/283-4324 FAX - 423/283-4369

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e-mail: editorial@theloaferonline.com (editorial) adcopy@theloaferonline.com (advertising) All advertisements are accepted and

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Stargazer - Mars, Jupiter, Saturn Under Earth’s Watchful Eye Skies This Week The Casual Word - Glass Keys Batteries Not Included - Let’s Go Party Pop Life - Ghostbusters Mountain Movers - The Kent Garner Interview The Trivial Traveler - Quick, To The Bat Bridge Appalachian Wanderers - Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area Lock, Stock & Barrel - Wheel-Gun Showdown Pt.2 Ruger LCR Kelly’s Place - The Big Story

published by the publisher upon the representation that the agency and/or advertiser is authorized to publish the entire contents

14 EVEN MORE BANDS! 15 More of The Best Bartenders of 2016 16 AND EVEN MORE BANDS! 18 SOME MORE BANDS! 19 National Night Out 20 A FEW MORE BANDS! 21 Scott Miller Returns To Down Home 26 JUST A FEW MORE BANDS! 28 Last but not least... MORE BANDS! 34 Tomato Fest 35 Jonesborough Welcomes Noa Baum 37 A Letter From A Reader... 39 Pets Of The Week 40 Things To Do 41 Classifieds

music & fun 22

and subject matter thereof. The agency and/or advertiser will indemnify

Spotlight - Great Music & Fun Times

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

ADAM LAWSON

Thursday, July 28th - 8pm at Yee Haw Brewing Company 8pm & Saturday, July 30th at O’Mainnin’s Pub

theloaferonline.com | July 26, 2016 | 3

1 LAST CHANCE

Alternative Rock, Punk Rock

What is Music?

usic is everywhere. We can’t escape it. We listen to it on the radio while driving around doing errands. We hear it in the background sound effects at the movie theater or on the television. Commercials use (or abuse, depending on your perspective) music to catch your attention and try to make a sale. Music is in grocery stores, public buildings, work-out facilities, recreation centers, and schools. Perhaps the only place you might be able to escape it is in the library. Do we really want to escape music? Have you ever thought about abolishing it? Is it possible to eliminate it from our lives? It has been embedded into our psyche since the day we were born. It soothes, relaxes, inspires, controls, and manipulates – all that and much more. Life is music. So, when did music begin? It’s difficult to say when music began. We can find references in various religious texts to singing and making music. We see evidence in cave paintings that depict people dancing. (You have to admit that the presence of dancing strongly suggests the presence of music.) It has been suggested that the first musical instrument might have been a roughly constructed hollow stick through which one could blow and make sound – the precursor of wind instruments. Sticks to beat out a rhythm? Simple, yes; crude, perhaps, but doesn’t music include even that type of crude instrument? What about the feet and the hands that tap or stamp out a rhythm? Doesn’t music involve rhythm and some semblance of a beat? And what about the human voice? Isn’t that a musical instrument too? The voice has certainly been around since the first humans walked this earth. To determine the beginning of anything, one must define it. What is music? There are various definitions that offer suitable interpretations. Here’s a definition from Dictionary.com: “Music – an art of sound in time that expresses ideas and emotions in significant forms through the elements of rhythm, melody, harmony, and colour. The tones or sounds employed, occurring in single line (melody) or multiple lines (harmony), and sounded or to be sounded by one or more voices or instruments, or both.” Yahoo.com goes further: “an aesthetically pleasing or harmonious sound or combination of sounds: the music of the wind in the pines.” If music is sound, pleasing and magical, with variations in pitch that suggest a melody and some sort of rhythm, perhaps even a counterpoint of harmony, then it follows that it really did exist long before humans walked the earth. As Sarah E. Worth points out, music is a form of communication. Don’t all living creatures communicate with one another? After all, don’t the birds sing? Isn’t singing a form of making music? What about the creatures of the sea? Whales are believed to sing their own eerie songs in the deeps. Humans tend to believe that everything started with the first signs of human intelligence, with the first recorded events of human history. We could believe that music started with the caveman, or that the Book of Psalms were early examples of vocal music, and that King David’s harp was one of the first stringed instruments, which he used as accompaniment when singing the psalms that scholars believe he wrote. If we look at the broader definition, however, as humans we really can’t take the entire credit. We did not create music. It has always been out there, waiting for all of us to discover, to appreciate, and to enjoy. So go out. Live for live music. It’s all around us.

In a time when contrived pop, hip-hop and country completely dominate the mainstream music industry, 1 Last Chance holds on to an unyielding belief: that music should actually mean something. It should not be background noise, it should not be trivial and it should not be insincere. Instead, it should be powerful, it should be emotional and, most of all, it should be real. Founding members Jacob Hampton and Brandon McDaniel have been crafting the band’s music since 2010. Having been inspired in their youths by groups like Bad Religion, Green Day and The Offspring, the band blends elements of alternative rock, punk rock and progressive rock into a style that is completely unique to them, yet still familiar enough that listeners connect with it wholeheartedly. They’ve shared the stage with the likes of The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus, Emery, Framing Hanley and The Queers just to name a few.

3 SHADES OF RED Rock, Alternative, Metal

3 Shades of Red is an all-original progressive rock band from East Tennessee. All members have worked together in various Musical projects before but came together to create our own style of rock and roll & bring something new to the area. Members include: Tony Cunninghamlead vocals, David Messick- guitar & vocals, Steve Frazier- guitar, Cody Sanders- percussion, and Glenn Bortzbass guitar.

7 MILE MUSHROOM

Southern Rock, Blues and Jam Band

7 Mile Mushroom is a recent collaboration of several veterans of the local music scene. Patrons of the local scene will recognize a familiar line up which features former members of the bands the Nomads, the Garrett Harris Band, Catfish Frye band, as well as others. These journeymen have combined their experience and talent to crank out original rock and roll infused with a distinctive Appalachian Funk. Live, the Band seamlessly intertwines originals and classics, performing all with heart felt soul and the freestyling spirit of bands like Gov’t Mule, Allman Bros and Cream. For more info and a sampling of the Band’s sound, check out the 7 Mile Mushroom page on Facebook

Grab contact info on these awesome talent at: theloaferonline.com/band-booking/ 4 | July 26, 2016 | theloaferonline.com

Texas Sweethearts The Quebe Sisters The Friends of 1927 Concert Series’ Summer Edition

he Birthplace of Country Music (BCM) proudly welcomes Texas swing sweethearts The Quebe Sisters (sounds like “maybe”) to Theatre Bristol for an intimate Friends of 1927 Concert experience. The triple-threat fiddle champions and princesses of multi-part harmony are alumni of Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion and have shared stages with music legends such as Willie Nelson, George Strait, Merle Haggard, and many more. “Had the Andrews Sisters been born in Texas a decade or so earlier, they may have sounded a lot like The Quebe Sisters,” said Leah Ross, Executive Director of BCM. “Once they start playing you can’t take your eyes off of them. Their energy and musical skill is amazing.” By the time they reached their teens, Grace, Sophia, and Hulda Quebe were already making a sensation as fiddle champions in the Lone Star state. Each of them have achieved titles at the National Old-Time Fiddlers Contest. Haled as Western Group of the Year by the Academy of Western Artists, the trio also received the Crescendo Award for outstanding emerging artists from the Western Music Association. The Quebe Sisters have entertained audiences at major venues including The Grand Ole Opry and New York’s Lincoln Center. They have also been guests on Prairie Home Companion, Bluegrass Underground, and The Marty Stuart Show. Now in their 20s, the Quebe Sisters have traveled the world, recorded three albums, and have earned the respect of many, more famous musicians who are often their biggest cheerleaders. “One thing is for sure, you don’t see a group like The Quebe Sisters come along every day,” famed Opry announcer Eddie Stubbs is quoted as saying. “Give them your undivided attention, and if you’re not already, you too, will become a fan.” The Friends of 1927 Concert featuring The Quebe Sisters takes place on Saturday, July 30 at 6:30 p.m. at Theatre Bristol, located at 512 State Street in Historic Downtown Bristol, Tennessee/Virginia. The Friends of 1927 Concert Series is an intimate concert experience

where fans have the opportunity to interact with the artists in a relaxed setting. Cocktails and hors d’oeuvres are all included in the $81 ticket price, along with taxes and fees. To learn more about becoming a Friend of 1927 and to find out more about this and other BCM events, visit www.BirthplaceOfCountryMusic.org.

theloaferonline.com | July 26, 2016 | 5

ADAM LAWSON Americana/Folk/Alt-Country

Adam Lawson’s songs are reminiscent of roots music, at the same time bring a whole new perspective with deep-seated southern roots and charm. Combined with a DIY Punk Rock ethos. In some scenes there is an artist of integrity and imagination, a songwriter’s songwriter, a person who encourages and inspires younger artists but continues to put out relevant material that shows artistry and promise. A prolific person who is not only driven by the pure love of music, but also the intense need to make and perform it with as many other people as possible present, and preferably involved. This person is the glue that holds a scene together. This person is the true believer. Adam Lawson is this person in the East Tennessee folk music scene. Quietly and constantly Lawson has built solid relationships with the area’s best artists and venues and earned their respect. He has overcome heartbreak and adversity and graciously showed up again and again to give his all on stage for crowds of all sizes, night after night and year after year. Lawson’s songs evoke a poignant melancholy that smacks of the influences he’s proud to claim: Elliott Smith, Townes Van Zandt and his good friend, the late local legend Allun Cormier. The songs sound like beer and cigarette smoke and rural highways that lead to ramshackle roadhouses. They sound like a cry to a star-filled sky, a dreamer’s diary, the words of the last romantic. They are Americana songs with twang and grit and that high lonesome sound, but the lyrics are less confined to Southern fables than many artists under the country banner. They access certain cosmic and universal threads of consciousness in a dreamy poetic haze that is not concerned with linear narrative or lists of interests and activities that prove him Southern. He’s a true Southern man, alright, with chivalry and manners, a healthy respect for his elders and influences, but he’s a southerner like Faulkner is: he offers a unique and challenging perspective on life without seeming like he hates it.

ADAM MCMILLAN Acoustic Soul to present day rock

Adam McMillan the Singer for Damage Done. He wants to reach different age groups of people and fans. He is a versatile musician and enjoys performing and entertaining crowds. “It’s all about the fans coming out and enjoying themselves and having a great time. So anytime you see or hear about a show come on out and enjoy.”

UPcoming

performances!

1 LAST CHANCE Aug. 26 – The Pond, Franklin TN 7 MILE MUSHROOM Aug. 20 - The Old Barn Sept. 3 - Jiggy Ray’s

ADAM LAWSON July 28 – Yee Haw Brewing Co. July 30 – O’Mainnin’s Pub Aug. 4 – Yee Haw Brewing Co. Aug. 13 – Little Chicago Festival w/The Whiskey Incident Aug. 24 – Our House Restaurant Aug. 25 – Yee Haw Brewing Co. Sept. 1 – Yee Haw Brewing Co. Sept. 2 – Hale Springs Inn, Rogersville TN Sept. 16 – Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion ADAM MCMILLAN Every Thursday – Rainbow Asian Cuisine Every Friday – Hungry I @ Apex ALLIEZ Aug. 5 - Appalachian Coal/Railroad Days BELOW 7 July 29-30 - The Mustang Lounge Aug. 6 - Roaming Gnome Pub & Eatery, Sevierville, TN Aug. 21 - Bobarosa Saloon, Del Rio, TN THE BILLY CRAWFORD BAND July 30 – Draper VA Blues & BBQ Festival Aug. 4 – Bristol’s Full Moon Jam Aug. 12 – Little Chicago Festival Aug. 13 – Quaker Steak & Lube Aug. 20 – Holiday Inn, Bristol VA. Aug. 27 – Bourbon Street Alley BOA Aug. 12 – The Hideaway BROKEN Sept. 30 – O’Mainnin’s Pub & Grill

ALLIEZ

80’s Rock N Roll

ALLIEZ is an 80’s rock cover band from the Tri-Cities area. ALLIEZ was formed in 2015 and plays cover songs made famous by such groups as Journey, Foreigner, Styx, Def Leppard, Boston, Kansas, Night Ranger, Whitesnake, REO Speedwagon and others. ALLIEZ members include Brad Meade (guitar), Grant Meade (bass), Brian Little (guitar), Mark Gage (drums) and Richie Gray (keyboards). You can check ALLIEZ out on their Facebook page and on Reverbnation.com. Give us a call or contact us if you are looking for good 80’s rock n roll! Everybody wants ALLIEZ!!

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THE CALAMITY JONES BAND July 29 - Sonny`s Marina Aug. 13 - Lakeview Marina Aug. 25 - Quaker Steak & Lube Aug. 27 - Sonny`s Marina Sept. 8 - Quaker Steak & Lube CATFISH FRYE BAND July 29 – Yee Haw Brewing Co. Aug. 6 – Lakeview Marina Aug. 19 – Sonny’s Marina Aug. 20 – Covered Bridge Jams, Elizabethton Sept. 2 – Lakeview Marina Sept. 2 – Laurel Marina CRAZY LIKE LEXI July 29 - Our House Restaurant

festival

Cheesecake Waltz & Workshop

he Historic Jonesborough Dance Society will hold a waltz workshop and waltz on Saturday July 30, 2016, at Serenity Knoll Farm, 542 Bacon Branch Road, Jonesborough, TN 37659. The evening will start with a two-hour waltz workshop from 5-7:00pm taught by Scott Baxla from Asheville, NC. This “Learn to Waltz Workshop” will start with beginner level concepts that include how to connect with your partner, basic waltz steps and how to move to the music. After an hour, the workshop will move towards some intermediate level waltz moves.

Dance was considered an important social skill in the Victorian Era. Considered scandalous when it was first introduced due to the close proximity of the partners, waltzing soon became de rigueur in ballrooms worldwide. Come alone or with a partner to learn some waltzing basics that will have you gliding and twirling before you know it! Cost of the workshop is $10. From 7-8:00pm, you are encouraged to bring your best homemade cheesecake to compete for a grand prize of two tickets to the annual Mountain Madness Dance Weekend October 14-16 in Jonesborough. Get out your mixing bowl, cream cheese and sugar with your other secret ingredients and bring your best cheesecake for all to try out. Dancers will be the final judges. At 8:00pm, a live waltz in the beautiful Pavilion at Serenity Knoll Farm to music by “Flying the Tune” which consists of June Advincula on piano and the sweet sounds of fiddle tunes by Lew Gelfond. Cost of the two-hour waltz is $10. “Waltz is a part of every contra dance event. Our dancers are longing for instruction in the folk or country waltz” adds event organizer, David Wiley. “Scott Baxla is an excellent waltz teacher and guides beginners very effectively towards gaining the basic skills very quickly”. After the waltz, dancers are invited to stay around for an hour of swing dance to recorded music. Serenity Knoll Farm is a vegetable and flower farm on the

at Serenity Knoll!

edge of Jonesborough. The farm has an event center that is used for dances, workshops, weddings and concerts. For more information, please contact event organizers, David Wiley, at 423-534-8879 or turn to the Historic Jonesborough Dance Society on Facebook.

theloaferonline.com | July 26, 2016 | 7

BARRY CREEK BAND Originals, Aerosmith to Zeppelin, 50’s – 80’s, Classic Rock, Alternative, Country

Members include: Barry Creek-singer/songwriter/guitar and vocals, Bill Godfrey singer/songwriter/bass and vocals, Ruben Creek-singer/ songwriter/drums and percussion This trio of musicians have been active on the music scene throughout the region for many years. While pursuing various musical projects over the years from solo performing to larger bands, they have had a bond that has kept them together for over 20 years. Americana best describes them as they bring a little bit of everything to the stage. Their greatest love is to share their original music, while having a repertoire of cover music which ranges from Aerosmith to Zeppelin, the 50’s to 80’s, classic rock, alternative and country genres. They’ve played venues throughout the region. They play pubs and eateries, but their specialty is private parties, weddings & special events!

performances!

Aug. 6 - Jonesborough VFW Aug. 12 - Our House Restaurant Sept. 24 - Yee Haw Brewery Co. Sept. 30 - Jiggy Rays

EARTH BY TRAIN July 29 - The Pinnacle August 6 - Bristol Brewery August 13 - Gypsy Circus Cider Company September 2 - Wolf Hills Brewery EARTH SUITS July 29 - Holston River Brewing Co. w/ State of Sleep and Love Unit. THE GENTLMEN & LIARS Aug. 6 - Clinch River Jam - Sneedville, TN Oct. 8 - Jiggy Rays - Elizabethton, TN Oct. 21 - Quaker Steak & Lube - Bristol, VA

BELOW 7

Modern Rock/Alternative Band has been together 1 year. It would be difficult to tag Below 7 with one genre. Any given show could open up with The Black Crowes and end up with a heavy dose of Godsmack. That obviously leaves a whole lot of in between. We currently play shows in all surrounding states. A “will travel” creed not only gives us the opportunity to play many different venues but also generates new fans of all ages. An upcoming CD is on the horizon for the band at an undetermined studio. We are also currently in negotiations with Coldcock Whiskey for a sponsorship. Members include Jarrod Evans – Vocals, Eric Sheffield - Drums, Rick Robinson – Bass, Todd Viers – Guitars. Don’t miss our next local show which will be advertised here.

THE BILLY CRAWFORD BAND

Blues guitar might be associated with Mississippi, Texas and Chicago, but a man of the mid-South has something to say about that. The city of Bristol, smack on the Tennessee/Virginia border, claims itself as the birthplace of country music. But one of its native sons is making a huge blues noise. The common denominator in all of this is Billy Crawford – raised playing bass in church, then gaining an early hard-rock pedigree on electric guitar. But for the past three decades, he has turned his six-string action toward the blues. For much of the 1990s, audiences around the world heard Crawford’s intense work with blues-rocker Deborah Coleman. He gave up the road in 2002, when his wife gave birth to their son. The fire is still burning blue from Crawford’s Guitar, as he rips through blues, ballads, rock, surf – even New Orleans-style. Underpinning it all is a band with plenty of energy and mastery of dynamics. Go to thebillycrawfordband.com to hear and see more and find out when the band is playing in your town.

Grab contact info on these awesome talent at: theloaferonline.com/band-booking/ 8 | July 26, 2016 | theloaferonline.com

UPcoming

HUNTER GRIGG Nov. 11 - Yee Haw Brewing Co. Dec. 22 - Yee Haw Brewing Co. Jan. 12 2017 - Yee Haw Brewing Co. JACKDAW’S 7 July 28 – Lakeview Marina August 4 – Lakeview Marina August 20 – Our House Restaurant August 26 – Sleepy Owl Brewery Sept. 3 – Wolf Hills Brewery Sept. 24 – Fall Down Festival Damascus Oct. 15 – Cardinal Field JAZZ251 Every Thursday – Rock’s Wood-fired Pizza JC Jazz Jam at Wellington’s every 4-6 weeks JB5NDIME July 29 – Jiggy Ray’s Aug. 6 – The Damascus Brewery Sept. 3 – Yee Haw Brewing Co. Sept. 17 – Relay for Life of Unicoi County JUST BCUZ BAND Aug. 5 - Back at King’s Alley Summer concert Sept. 17 - Jiggy Ray’s Pizza KIDS OUR AGE Aug. 20 – Music on Main, Tazewell, VA Aug. 25 – Winged Deer Park Aug. 26 – Jonesborough Visitors Center LAUREN COLE BAND July 30 - Elizabethton Covered Bridge Concert Series Aug. 6 - Johnson City Cardinals Aug. 11 - Winged Deer Park Lakeside Concert Series Aug. 13 - Little Chicago Music and Arts Festival Sep. 3 - Jiggy Ray’s Downtown Pizza Sep. 9- Bristol football party Oct. 29 - Yee-Haw Brewing Co.

TOUR 15 OF ABINGDON’S HISTORICAL HOMES AT THE VIRGINIA HIGHLANDS FESTIVAL

he 68th Annual Virginia Highlands Festival offers a full schedule of new events and returning favorites. Running July 29 – August 7, the Festival features a regionally-renowned antiques market, award-winning juried arts and crafts show, concerts, free children’s activities and more! Ever drive through historic downtown Abingdon and wonder what these beautiful homes look like on the in-

side? Here is your rare opportunity to find out at the Festival’s Historic Homes Tour. This self-guided tour takes place on Saturday, August 6th from 10 am – 4 pm. Go at your own pace and see as many homes as time allows. Learn about the architecture and the stories of those who lived in these historic homes which range in date from 1816 up to the 1930s. “This tour will provide a window into the past as you walk through history in these lovingly restored homes,” said Local History committee chairman Ben Jennings. Make life easy on yourself, and get your tickets in advance. They are just $20 at www.VaHighlandsFestival.org, where you can pay by card. You can also get them at one of two starting locations on the day of the tour only: 225 E. Main St. (“The Bank”) or 132 W. Valley St. (“The Read House”), but you’ll need to bring cash or a check only to these locations. For a full schedule of Festival events, pick up a Highlander magazine at locations throughout the Tri-Cities. You can also request a mailed copy by e-mailing info@vahighlandsfestival.org or calling 276-623-5266. An electronic version is available online at www.vahighlandsfestival. org. Founded in 1948, the Virginia Highlands Festival is an annual, 10-day event devoted to the celebration of Southwest Virginian heritage and rich Appalachian tradition. Held in historic Abingdon, Virginia, in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the Festival attracts about 200,000 visitors each year. The Festival was selected as the “Best Art Event” by the readers of Virginia Living magazine in 2016 (fifth year in a row), recognized as a Top 20 Event by the Southeastern Tourism Society and has been consistently named as one of the American Bus Association’s Top 100 Tourist Attractions over the past four decades. In 2016, the

68th Virginia Highlands Festival will run from July 29-Aug. 7 (Antiques Market July 30- Aug. 7) and feature live concerts, a juried arts and crafts show, and an antique market, as well as workshops, lectures and tours. Please visit www. vahighlandsfestival.org/

theloaferonline.com | July 26, 2016 | 9

UPcoming

BOA

performances!

Post Rock/Ambient

Nov. 26- Jiggy Ray’s Jan. 14, 2017 - Yee-Haw Brewing Co. Feb. 18, 2017 - Yee-Haw Brewing Co. Mar 25, 2017 - Yee-Haw Brewing Co. April 22, 2017 - Yee-Haw Brewing Co.

BOA (members Michael D. Peck and Chris Bryant) focus on cinematic musical progressions fusing post-rock, electronic, and ambient genres. Fans of Caspian, Explosions in the Sky, or any of the Trent Reznor and Atticus Finch film scores will dive headlong into this.”

MICHELLE LEIGH Aug. 25 – 50/Fifty Sports Tavern Sept. 18 – The Josie’s

BROKEN

Rock, Classic Rock & Southern Rock, some heavier stuff, Country The band BROKEN have been playing music together for over 20 years. In the early 90’s they played under the name AFTERMATH, playing everyday & doing some private shows and parties. A short time later they played Rockin’ on the River using the name RIFF RAFF. The show was a hit and many people came out to see & cheer them on. Today they are still doing private shows & parties along with working on a cd and playing local venues when possible. Some of the local venues include Down Home, Scully’s, The Mecca, Poor Richards Campus, and The Battle of the Bands @ the f air. They play a variety of music like rock, heavy metal, and country music to try to please everyone who comes to see us. BROKEN is made up of band members Billy Graybeal-vocals/guitar, Mike Kuntz- Drums, Greg Lamb- Bass.

THE CALAMITY JONES BAND Old and New Country, Rock, R & B, Bluegrass, Blues, etc.

The Calamity Jones Band (formerly the Jones Boys Band) has always been one of the most popular bands in the Tri Cities area for well over 10 years. It is comprised of local musicians Tim Babb (Front man/lead singer/rhythm guitar) John Jones (upright bass player/vocals) Chad Blackburn (drummer/vocals) and Randy ‘RAT’ Tarpley (lead singer/lead guitar). During a typical show you will hear a vast variety of musical genres that range from Country to Classic Rock with everything else in between including R & B, Bluegrass, Americana, Blues, and the list goes on depending on what the age and mood of the crowd determines. It is not uncommon to hear a George Jones song followed by a Jimi Hendrix cover then into a Michael Jackson tune as the Calamity Jones Band can satisfy almost any musical request and thrive to do so. Having played countless venues, events, weddings, festivals, and many other occasions over the years, the band is highly experienced at pleasing crowds in a professional manner. The combination of John`s big, upright bass slapping in time to the jazzy beats of Chad`s vintage Gretch drums, then add in the steady rhythm of Tim`s acoustic guitar provides the perfect background for the hot and catchy riffs from Rat`s 1974 Fender Telecaster to complete the big picture of this unique sounding band. We love what we do and it shows. We like to have fun and let it be contagious for our audience. We look forward to seeing you at a Calamity Jones Band show sometime soon.

Grab contact info on these awesome talent at: theloaferonline.com/band-booking/ 10 | July 26, 2016 | theloaferonline.com

NIGHTSHIFT July 30 – The Show Palace Aug. 5 – Wash. Co. Moose Lodge Aug. 6 – JC Moose Lodge Aug. 13 – The Show Palace Aug. 20 – Buffalo Ruritan Club Aug. 26 – Lion’s Club Aug. 27 – David Thompson’s Produce Sept. 3 - The Show Palace Sept. 23 – Lion’s Club Sept. 24 – JC Moose Lodge PAPER LIGHTS Oct. 15 – Kingsport Harvest Festival THE P.F. FLYERS July 31 – The Outdoorsman RAILROAD ANGELS Aug. 13 – Morristown TN Aug. 22 – Appalachian Fair Pickin’ Porch Aug. 26 - Appalachian Fair Home and Farm building Sept .3 - Tweetsie Trail Celebration Sept. 17 - LALA PA Looza, Cleeks Farm RAILWAY EXPRESS Aug. 4 - Quaker Steak & Lube Aug. 12 - Country Club Aug. 13 - Hansonville Bluegrass & Country Barn Aug. 19 - Just One More Bar & Grill Aug. 27 - Quaker Steak & Lube SCOTT TUCKER Every Wednesday – Our House Restaurant THE SHIFTERS July 29 - Capone’s- Johnson City, TN- with Acorn People & Loose Leaves Nov. 5 - O’Mainnin’s- Bristol, TN SIGEAN July 31 – VA Highlands Festival Sept. 3 – Celtic / Appalachian Music Festival SKULL PUNCH Aug. 27 – Hungry I @ Apex SOUTHERN REBELLION Aug. 6 - Quaker Steak and Lube Aug. 12 - Sonny’s Marina Aug. 13 - 50/Fifty Sports Tavern

theloaferonline.com | July 26, 2016 | 11

CATFISH FRYE BAND

UPcoming

performances!

Rockin Boogie Blues

Together 5 years This band in known for it’s high energy, exciting, upbeat, groove driven shows. No lullabies here. Come ready to feel the heat of the Rockin Boogie Beat. All fantastic singers and musicians deeply rooted in rock and blues. You’ll hear everything from Elvis to ZZ Top, Muddy Waters to CCR, George Thorogood to Stevie Ray Vaughan, Doobie Brothers to the Blues Brothers, and much much more. Watch out! Never know when they’ll funk it up a little too. Catfish’s dancing and harmonica playing with fire and passion ALWAYS delights the audience. Get your Mojo Workin and come join the fun!

CRAZY LIKE LeXI

CRAZY LIKE LeXI is an acoustic trio and features Erwin, TN native Aaron Ensor as lead vocalist and rhythm guitar player. Often called the man who can sing anything, Aaron’s vocals are silky smooth as the band covers an eclectic mix of original songs and acoustic covers. Featuring music from the 50’s to the 80’s, all the way to rock and country hits from today, you are bound to hear Aaron singing songs you love at a CRAZY LIKE LeXI show. Playing lead and rhythm is the amazing and talented Rob Coffey from Kingsport, TN. Rob plays incredible lead, often pulling off mind blowing, mouth dropping riffs that are seldom, if ever, heard on an acoustic guitar. Sometimes accused of being Hank Williams Jr. in disguise, Rob has a stage presence like no other and leaves the audience saying, “I can’t believe that guy just pulled that off on acoustic”. Last, but certainly not least, the drummer is Mr. Keith Love from Johnson City, TN. Keith has a personality as big as he is, and it shows in his playing style. Insisting on playing a full drum kit for acoustic shows, Keith brings a unique and memorable vibe to CRAZY LIKE LeXI that works, and gets people up, moving, and on the dance floor. CRAZY LIKE LeXI is available for public venues and events, private parties, and weddings.

EARTH BY TRAIN

Progressive/Fusion blend of Jam meets Americana Earth By Train has been a touring band for the better part of three years, slowly building their fan base on the East Coast. Having played listening rooms, venues, clubs, and festivals with their exciting blend of musical styles, Earth By Train is well suited for any venue. Among their many influences, they believe in making good powerful music, opening the possibilities of what It can do for our hearts and our world. They use drums, guitars, their hands, their voice, their heads and hearts to create sound that is appealing and helps to soothe the soul. Each of the band members has had a past in solo writing and performing but decided, as a whole, they might make a better movement as One. They became a band. They are friends, they believe in each other, they support ideas and creativity for all.

Grab contact info on these awesome talent at: theloaferonline.com/band-booking/ 12 | July 26, 2016 | theloaferonline.com

Aug. 20 - Farmer Bob’s Camp Ground Aug. 27 - Painter Creek Marina SOVEREIGN Nov. 4 - O’Mainnin’s Pub

STAGECOACH July 30 – Silver Spur Aug. 13 – Castlewood Eagles Aug. 19 – Abingdon Moose Aug. 27 – Silver Spur w/ Coal Creek Sept. 3 – Silver Spur Sept. 10 - Hansonville Barn Sept. 17 - Silver Spur w/ Rhythm Revue Sept. 24 - Castlewood Eagles Oct. 8 - Silver Spur Oct. 14 – Just One More Barn Oct. 22 – Hansonville Barn Oct. 29 – Silver Spur Nov. 12 - Silver Spur Nov. 18 – Just One More Bar Nov. 19 – Castlewood Eagles Nov. 26 - Silver Spur w/ Night Shift Dec. 10 - Castlewood Eagles Dec. 17 - Silver Spur w/ Moonlight Run Dec. 23 - Just One More Barn Dec. 31 - Silver Spur SULLIVAN STREET July 30 – Elizabethton Moose Lodge Aug. 5 – The Barbarosa Saloon Aug. 6 – Hey’l Yeah Country & Rock Saloon, Bulls Gap, TN Aug. 19 – Quaker Steak & Lube Aug. 26 – Painter Creek Marina SUNDOWN BAND Aug. 6 – David Thompson’s Produce Aug. 12 – Kickin’ Back at King Alley Aug. 13 – Willoughby Ruritan Aug. 19 – St. James Community Center SWALLOW THE SKY July 29 – The Hideaway THUNDERCOCK Aug. 16 - The Hideaway (with The Rebel, Spray Paint, and Nerve Endings) Oct. 14 - The Hideaway (with Sister Helen and Nerve Endings) TIMELESS Aug. 13 - Kingsport Moose Lodge UNDER THE TABLE July 29 - Lakeview Marina Aug. 13 - Sportsmans Marina Aug. 19 – Painter Creek Marina Aug. 27 - Lakeview Marina WOLF CREEK Aug. 6 – Biggie’s Clam Bar Aug. 18 – Banner Elk Summer Concerts Aug. 20 – Lakeview Marina

Northeast State hosts

Tri-Cities Shaped-Note Convention Annual Concert

haped-note singing is an American tradition of hymn-singing that endures today in churches and annual singing schools and conventions. Check out this fascinating musical style when the Tri-Cities ShapedNote Convention Annual Concert comes to Northeast State on July 28 at 7:00 p.m. The concert is being held at the College’s Wellmont Regional Center for the Performing Arts Theater located on the Blountville campus next to Tri-Cities Regional Airport. The band’s performance is part of the College’s “Hot Nights, Cool Music” summer concert series. Admission is free and open to the public. The performance celebrates Northeast State’s 50th Anniversary. “Shape-note” refers to a musical notation system designed to make reading music easy. Notes with note-heads of different shapes represent the four corresponding syllables: fa, sol, la, and mi. The style began in New England in the 18th century and made its way to the Southern states where it enjoyed popularity through the mid-19th century. Basically, shaped-notes allow for a simplified way to read music. Based on squares, ovals, diamonds, and triangles – the distinctive shapes of the notes instantly tell what pitch to sing. The style gained a great following in colonial times when many singers were musically untrained. The music has a distinctive modal sound, where each voice part is interesting and melodic. The singing is usually exuberant, rhythmic and full of feeling! For more information about this or other events in the Hot Nights, Cool Music series, visit www.NortheastState.edu or contact 423.279.7669 or jpkelly@NortheastState.edu.

theloaferonline.com | July 26, 2016 | 13

EARTH SUITS

Melodic Cosmic Americana Post Pop Punk Earth Suits has been playing for a little over a year, but members within the band have played in various other bands together going on 15 years. Earth Suits is five really good friends playing music. What stands out most about Earth Suits is the lack of (or abundance of) a lead singer. With three songwriters in the band, the listener has the chance to hear different perspectives and influences. Having three guitars, frequent harmonies, and an aggressive tone, Earth Suits could be referred to as a pissed off Eagles. Songs tend to be kept short and to the point with lyrics revolving around coping with human strife. The focus of Earth Suits is friendship, fun, and refusing to play cover songs. A viewer at a live show should expect to see as much energy as 30-year-olds can muster.

HUNTER GRIGG

THE GENTLEMEN & LIARS Country

The Gentlemen & Liars are a true band of 21st century country gentlemen -- despite their crossed fingers and outlaw tendencies. Many have asked which of the five band members are gentlemen and which are liars – come to a live show to find out. The Gentlemen & Liars are a Johnson City-based band best described as gritty country with a southern rock back-bone. Their original music celebrates both the dark and light sides of their pasts, which are littered with devious women, old flames as well the redemption found in a father’s love. Plus, these guys can sing harmonies that would make the late Glenn Frey proud. Whether it’s an acoustic set or plugged-in, these guys will not disappoint.

Folk, Americana, Traditional Country

Hunter Grigg has been playing in the area for the last two years as a solo act with an ever changing rotation of band mates and fellow musicians. His sound encompasses a unique blend of folk, Americana, and traditional country in the vein of Neil Young, Waylon Jennings, and Jason Isbell. In 2014, he began recording his first EP and cutting his teeth as a songwriter and performer in the Appalachian region. To date, He has played around forty different venues ranging from Northern Georgia up to Chicago. Locally, He has headlined at several places including The Willow Tree, Yee Haw Brewery, Studio Brew, 620 State Street, The Acoustic Coffeehouse and many more. He has also been featured in the Tri-Cities Magazine VIP SEEN, and played on the Morning Edition of Daytime Tri-Cities. At current, he is touring parts of the south, self-producing his second record, and in the process of releasing his first live video.

JACKDAW’S 7 BAND Appalachian Alternative

JASON “The Comeback Kid” EDWARDS Country, Americana

East Tennessee native Jason Edwards has been playing his brand of country music professionally since the age of 16. Named “the comeback kid” by those close to him after a near death experience in Nashville years back, just as life can be very “real” at times, Jason likes to keep the music “real”. It is all about the songs and connecting to people on a personal level for Jason. He has opened shows for major acts such as Gary Allan and Chad Brock among others. Through his live shows, YouTube channels and internet presence he has built up a loyal following of listeners. In 2015 he played over 120 live shows including a performance at the famous Blue bird cafe in Nashville. In 2016 he continues to perform live, often backed up by Travis Miller, and he is working on new projects. Jason has been featured as a guest on Daytime Tricities on several occasions, as well as features in local and national press. Jason’s next scheduled local performance will be for the opening of Dog House Tavern in Johnson City, in August, check Facebook or www.reverbnation.com/jasonthecomebackkidedwards7 for confirmed date.

Jackdaw’s 7, an original alt-country band, hailing from Bristol, TN/VA. They have set out to invoke the darker side of the country music genre by utilizing elements of classic country combined with modern story telling. Musical backgrounds range from bluegrass and classical, to punk and metal. Singer/songwriter Jason Wilson has played in several bands, including Last in Line, The Ghoultones & The Blasting Caps. Singer Jen Fields is an actress, humanitarian and is from a theater background. Julia Wilson, fiddle and vocals, attended the prestigious ETSU bluegrass program and lends her own personal style to the band. Banjoist Kevin Love has been involved in bluegrass music professionally for years. Jesse Bledsoe, bassist, has played in several Tri-Cities bands since 2000. Scott Thomas, a well-known Bristol drummer, has played with Punchin’ Judy and Omega Tribe and other notable projects. Kris McCrady, who also plays in the Farmhouse Ghost, completes the line-up as lead guitar.

Grab contact info on these awesome talent at: theloaferonline.com/band-booking/

14 | July 26, 2016 | theloaferonline.com

MORE OF THE

BEST BARTENDERS

OF 2016

Lauren Jones Ben Lolli Kelly Cline Val David Jun Todd Kilbourne Sydnee DeBusk Bud Garant Nikki Woliver Chelsea Hylemon Summer Coleman Timothy Labay Adam Carolyn Quach Ashton Braden Tarvo Renaldo Dave Davis Paige Mann Wade Spurgeon Paula Dugger Nate Peek Donna Wolters Beth Litvack Rachel Liebers Michael Roberts Stephen Helmbrecht Jason Summers Marcus Adkins Samantha Smith Jeff Hinegar Leslie Cox Renae Cloyd Dustin Walden Breanna Jew-d Smith Josey Smith Suzanne Solomon Sheila Hunter Dustie Wilcox Julie Johnson Lauren Northington Everette Frye Fred Ferguson Brandon Cunningham Sadie Tramel Kelly Casso Michael Langrel Haley Hall Milly Oliver Russell Harper Rashard Kennedy Michelle Radford Jonathan Taylor Melinda

Atlantic Ale House Atlantic Ale House JRH Brewing Machiavelli’s Gourmet & Co Mellow Mushroom CaféOne11 Buffalo Wild Wings Biggie’s Clam Bar Country Club Bar & Grill The Crowbar Miso’s Tipton Street Pub Tipton Street Pub Hideaway Applebee’s (Bristol) Holiday Inn (Cabaret Lounge) Quaker Steak & Lube Asian Rainbow Cuisine Electric Cowboy Nappys Rainbow Asian Cuisine Rainbow Asian Cuisine Biggie’s Numan’s Café Applebee’s (Kpt) 620 State Street Fatz (Bristol) O’Mainnin’s Pub New Beginnings Rush Street Capone’s Applebee’s (JC) Hogwild Saloon Hogwild Saloon Logan’s Roadhouse Logan’s Roadhouse East Coast Wings J Frank Restaurant Everett’s The Big Orange Hogwild Saloon Miso’s Mellow Mushroom Macado’s Logan’s Roadhouse Machiavelli’s Machiavelli’s Levy Restaurant Mellow Mushroom Sleepy Owl Brewery The Pit Stop theloaferonline.com | July 26, 2016 | 15

JAZZ251 Jazz251 is a dynamic group of jazz musicians, fluctuating in personnel from one gig to the next. So, you may see it as a guitar & bass duo one day, and a quintet with drums, piano & horns the next! We want to give an opportunity for flexibility: for customers & venues to customize the personnel for a performance, and to the musicians to coordinate with their busy schedules. “We LOVE jazz!” Even the name is rooted in music: 251 (or ii-V-I to most musicians) is the most common turnaround progression existing in Western music. Jazz Standards are timeless, and we enjoy re-working & re-inventing them for each performance. We have a list of some of the most popular tunes, but can always take requests for upcoming gigs. Aside from our private bookings, you can see us each Thursday at ROCKS Wood-fired Pizza in Johnson City from 7-9pm. We also play gigs at Wellington’s every 4-6 weeks as part of the JC Jazz Jam.

JB 5NDIME

Country, Honkytonk, Americana

JUST BCUZ BAND

JB 5 n Dime was established in 2012. Band members include James Brashears (vocals), Jason Shaffer (bass), Jeff Waddell (electric guitar) Collin Mchenry (drums). A group of friends with a love for many styles of music. Their musical background includes country, rock, soul, jazz, funk, Americana, folk and a hint of southern gospel influence. There are a number of covers and originals performed. The covers include songs from artists such as Merle Haggard, Waylon Jennings, George Jones, Garth Brooks etc. Their first demo song She Left Me for Jesus was released in 2012 by producer and engineer Troy Whitson with Sound Asylum. In 2016 their first full album “TREND” was released and has accumulated a lot of attention. It was engineered and produced by Jordy Whetsell. It seems that country music has evolved into more of a modern pop style sound and has lost its roots. The goal is to play country music as it was intended to be played by the pioneers of old. Not really trying to start a new revolution, just trying to showcase the art of true country music When given a chance to play.

Rock

From the 80’s Hairbands to being freaks with some Halestorm, Just Bcuz Music plays it all. This sibling duo includes lead singer and rhythm guitarist, Allison Rockwell, 17 and lead guitarist, Jaden Rockwell, 14. They have opened up for stars such as Dustin Lynch and Diamond Rio, plus have played over 100 shows in two years. The band states, “We are two rockers who love to play music. We have a great time performing and interacting with our audience. Jumping around on stage and just having fun is what it’s all about.” Allison says, “It’s amazing to be able to communicate to people through a song. Just being able to make one person smile and enjoy the show is what keeps us thriving and dedicated.” There is never a dull moment with the band. They’ll have you smiling, laughing, dancing, and singing along with them. So come check out the ROCK SHOW. Can’t wait to see you there!

KIDS OUR LAUREN COLE BAND AGE Blues and Rock

The Lauren Cole Band is a blues-driven rock band from Johnson City, Tennessee. Lauren’s dynamic vocal range has captured the attention of audiences in Tennessee, Virginia and North Carolina for the past several years. Lauren is backed by a tight four-piece ensemble that perfectly complements her vocals. Dom Avento plays the bass, and it’s when he gets out the upright that the fun really begins. Guitarists Joe Avento and Mike Murphy are joined by drummer Josh Shores. LCB’s upbeat set list has made the band a favorite at local breweries, clubs and parties. They’ve played several times at the Hard Rock Cafe and made a road trip to play in the Jersey Shore Festival.

50’s – 90’s, Rock n Roll, Country, A bit of everything

Kids Our Age has been together for 27 years. Members include David Riggs, James Lane, Jim Philyaw.

Grab contact info on these awesome talent at: theloaferonline.com/band-booking/ 16 | July 26, 2016 | theloaferonline.com

theloaferonline.com | July 26, 2016 | 17

MICHELLE LEIGH

Southern Rock, Cross Country, Outlaw Country, Blues Michelle stands poised, to reach a bench mark in her career. She has been nominee for three awards this year. On Sept. 18th, she along with her band will attend & perform @ The 2016 Josie Awards Presentations in Nashville, TN. Artist/Song/Entertainer of the year for 2016. Michelle was born and raised in Bakersville, NC. She still resides in the state of NC. Her love and passions are #1 her (pets)/ #2 Her Music/ #3 her friends & family. Michelle is very humble and appreciative of all her fans, with over 6,000 on FB along. Already named female southern rock vocalist in 2015 & 2016 fast blast winner, she continues to stride to be all she can be!! Her song Somebody’s Someone is @ #2 on Big Country Top 20. Relentless, humble, down to earth as common as the dust on your shoes. That’s our girl, “Miss Michelle Leigh” she and the band will rock your nation anywhere, any day, anytime.

PAPER LIGHTS

NIGHTSHIFT

Classic Country, but also enjoys playing Classic Rock, Southern Rock as well as Oldies. Nightshift is a mature band that plays many venues throughout the area and is available for bookings at dance halls, nightclubs and private parties.

Cinematic Pop Music Released first album in 2011. As an alternative/pop band from Atlanta, GA, Paper Lights have honed a large and cinematic soundscape within their music. Over the last two years they have toured nationally, opening for acts such as Allen Stone, The Fray and Mike Snow. Their music has also been featured in placements including commercials for Coca-Cola, Land Rover, Boeing, MTV, ESPN, Chick-fil-A and Outdoor Magazine. The band released their first full-length album, Great Escapes, in March of 2016 followed by several national tours. The ability to create live experiences in unconventional venues is among the things that make the band unique. From festival stages to private backyards, Paper Lights creates a memorable and movie like atmosphere.

THE P.F. FLYERS Oldies rock & roll

The P.F. Flyers are a 5-piece band based in Kingsport, TN. They were formed in 2006. Their mission is to play the great music from the ‘60’s & ‘70’s. Lead singer and bassist, Ronnie Smith, has played music with lead guitarist, Ron Worrell, since their college days. Legendary local saxophonist, Bill Salyer, joined the band in 2007. Bill played with The Reflections for many years. New members in the band are Jim Kelly and Rodger Steenbergen. Jim plays keyboards and Rodger plays drums and percussion. Rodger just moved here a few months ago. They are proud to have Rodger join the band; he played drums with Elvis in 1976 and early 1977. Jim Kelly has played piano for many local events in the tri-cities over the years. He’s a great soloist and we’re honored to have Jim join the band. The P.F. Flyers have played local clubs, classic car shows, high school and college reunions, corporate events, and Rhythm & Roots Reunion. If you’re looking for good time oldies rock & roll music to dance to, please give them a call!

RAILROAD ANGELS Old & New Country w/ a bit of Bluegrass

Railroad Angels is a sister duo group from Kingsport, TN. The 2016 North American Country Music Association Duo of the Year sing a mix of old and new country with a little bit of bluegrass and pop thrown in. The high energy group consist of 22-year-old Lexus Shipley (vocals), 18-year-old Cheridan Shipley (vocals, guitar mandolin, guitjo bass), 22-year-old Dandridge TN native Randy Keaton (lead guitar), and Rachel Merrick (drums). The sisters have had the band for about 5 years. They have been writing originals and love it. They have performed all over the tri-cities and in Nashville. They are nominated for a Josie award and will be attending the awards show and red carpet on September 18th.

Grab contact info on these awesome talent at: theloaferonline.com/band-booking/ 18 | July 26, 2016 | theloaferonline.com

NATIONAL NIGHT OUT:

PINEY FLATS TENNESSEE TO JOIN CITIES NATIONWIDE FOR

“AMERICA’S NIGHT OUT AGAINST CRIME”

n Tuesday, August 2nd, neighborhoods throughout the Tricities are being invited to join forces with thousands of communities nationwide for the “33rd Annual National Night Out” (NNO) crime and drug prevention event. National Night Out, which is sponsored by the National Association of Town Watch (NATW) and co-sponsored locally by Piney Flats United Methodist Church will involve over 16,728 communities from all 50 states, U.S. territories, Canadian cities, and military bases around the world. In all, over 38.3 million people are expected to participate in “America’s Night Out Against Crime”. NNO 2016 national corporate sponsors are ADT, Nextdoor.com, and Associa. National Night Out is designed to (1) Heighten Crime and drug prevention awareness; (2) Generate support for, and participation in, local anticrime efforts; (3) Strengthen neighborhood spirit and police-community partnerships; and (4) Send a message to criminals letting them know neighborhoods are organized and fighting back. From 6 to 8 pm on August 2nd, residents of Piney Flats and surrounding areas are asked to meet at Piney Flats United Methodist Church (225 Methodist Church Street) and spend the evening outside with neighbors and first responders. Free hotdog dinner and snacks. Bring a lawn chair and enjoy local musical talent and the Sullivan East High School Bluegrass Band. Lots of fun and games for all ages! For more information,. Please contact: Carolyn Kerr at 361-0686 or cbkwrk@aol.com Peggy Plum at 360-5440 or pegplum@hotmaiol.com Kim Baker at 557-2754 or kimmiedawn2009@hotmail.com Or Piney Flats United Methodist Church at 538-6937 Piney Flats United Methodist Church 225 Methodist Church Street Piney Flats, Tennessee

Benny Wilson to take over Winged Deer lakefront

enny Wilson, along with talented band members Gary Southerland, Tommy Starnes, Chris Simmons and Bill Bentley, will take the stage at Winged Deer Park’s Goulding Amphitheatre from 7-9 p.m. Thursday (July 28). “I’ve had the pleasure of working with and around a lot of very talented people in my career,” Wilson said, noting Wells Fargo Co. and Flat Creek in the ‘70s and Dave Friday in the ‘80s. Wilson also spent seven years with Encore Records and completed a six-year stint with the Statler Brothers, both on tour and on their television show. For more information, call (423)283-5815, or email jcparksinfo@johnsoncitytn. org. This year’s Lakeside Concert Series is sponsored by Bristol Broadcasting, DOTHERT Recording Studios, Johnson City Parks and Recreation, and the News and Neighbor.

theloaferonline.com | July 26, 2016 | 19

RAILWAY EXPRESS

Country, Honkytonk, Americana Railway Express has been around since 1991. We play a variety of music including southern rock, blues, old and new country. We recently won “Best of Bristol Band 2016”. We play clubs, venues, weddings, and private gatherings of all kinds. Book us for your event today! www.facebook.com/RailwayExpressBand

RENEGADE MUSTANGS Classic & Acoustic Rock & Country www.renegademustangs.com

THE SHIFTERS

Heavy Southern Blues Rock “Appalachian Machine Shop Blues” Members- Emily Dickenson (Bass- Vocals), Jordon Yates (drums), “Billy” Thomas Greer (Guitars- Vocals- Organ) The Shifters rose from the ashes of their former band, genericpeople, in 2010. With help from local venues and press outlets, the rock and roll trio have since played every where and anywhere that would host the hard-hitting, rusty, southern grit that the band’s sound resonates. Between their fearless delivery and a strong hold on unique rawness, these three drive it home with their hard rocking modern blues jams. Dickenson’s sultry vocals and over driven bass along with Yates’ perfectly aggressive drumming lay the foundation for Thomas’ bluesy guitars. More recently, the band has added an early 1960s Hammond organ to their arsenal. The organ, played by Thomas alongside his guitar, brings the 70s influence to a new level for The Shifters’ sound. Incorporating the organ in to their live set has again set the foreground for new challenging endeavors as the trio continues to travel and play their tunes for any and every crowd that will have them. You never know where The Shifters are going to take you next, but you can damn well bet they are going to get you there in a 1970s American muscle car flying like a bat out of hell!

SKULL PUNCH Alternative Rock

SCOTT TUCKER Singer Songwriter

Scott Tucker is a local singer songwriter from Gray Station Tn. He grew up and lives in Washington County. He writes with feel and tells a good story in his songs. He’s an acoustic fingerpicker and has a laid back easy style. He’s played in a few writer venues over the years, Eddies Idle Hour Lounge in Nashville and most recently, he started hosting in June 2016 a new venue in the heart of the Tri-Cities, Singer Songwriter Night at Our House Restaurant.

Skull Punch we are an alt rock/rock band from Mountain City, TN. Music genre includes stuff like matchbox 20, Seether, Staind, Bush, STP, Nirvana, Creed, Bush, Alice in Chains, and Tool. Skull Punch has been playing since may or June of 2015. Their debut show was Sept. 5th 2015 at a place called Butler Hitchin’ Post. Jason Gordon, drummer & back up vocals, met his guitar player & vocals, William Beam, back in 2013 in their first band. In 2015, he met his bassist, Luke, through a friend. After jamming out a little while together, they knew they were a good fit. The have already played a lot of shows for 2016 with more bookings coming. Though each member has their full time day jobs, Skull Punch enjoys to entertain and jam together.

Grab contact info on these awesome talent at: theloaferonline.com/band-booking/ 20 | July 26, 2016 | theloaferonline.com

Songwriter Scott Miller

ongwriter and adopted East Tennessean Scott Miller with special guest Bryn Davies returns to Johnson City’s Down Home, 300 W. Main St. on Saturday, July 30th. The Down Home is celebrating it’s 40th year in business and Miller has played a part of the club’s history for many years. For tickets and more info on the 8:00 p.m. show, the public can call 423-929-9822 or go to DownHome Miller just released the single, “The People Rule”. The song is a cautionary tale about the corrosive nature of politics, power and human habit. A proud son of Virginia, Miller doesn’t fit the mold of a preachy folksinger, but he has found a way to bring the American experience to life. In addition to his songs of love and the human condition, his catalog is peppered with songs about the Civil War (“Dear Sarah”, “Highland Country Boy”, “The Rain”), World War II (“The Red Ball Express”), Sam Houston (“Say Ho”) and urban sprawl (“Amtrak Crescent”). “He ended his set with The People Rule, an acerbically funny commentary on the corrupting influence of power”, ~Country Music People The last two years have seen big changes for Miller who moved home to take over the family cattle farm and establish a new touring base from his hometown of Staunton. During this time of transition and scaled down touring, Miller teamed up with old-time fiddle maven Rayna Gellert adding another sonic layer to Miller’s newest cd, the Doug Lancio-produced Big Big World, F.A.Y. Recordings. He’s currently in the studio working on a new release for early next year. The People Rule video includes an appearance with special guest Mic Harrison.

returns to down home

“Scott Miller tells stories better than most novelists. His intuitive lyrics hide universal heartbreak behind humor. His empathy is unsurpassed. He bestows dignity on the dirt, elevates our pettiest concerns to poetry.” ~Garden and Gun Magazine

theloaferonline.com | July 26, 2016 | 21

S O LG T P

T I

- TUESDAY - July 26th -

TURKEY CREEK at Full Moon Jam Bristol THE FRITO PUENTE BAND (Latin Jazz)

at Northeast State Hot Nights, Cool Music 7pm MAL COOPER at Acoustic Coffeehouse DOWNTOWN COUNTRY at Jiggy Ray’s 6:30pm

- WEDNESDAY - July 27th OPEN MIC

at The Willow Tree Coffeehouse & Music Room SHADES OF GREY unplugged at O’Mainnin’s Pub THE RESCUE RANGERS at Harvest Table 6:30pm MADLY BACKWARDS at Acoustic Coffeehouse

- THURSDAY - July 28th THOMAS TAYLOR

at Full Moon Jam - Bristol Downtown Center ADAM LAWSON (Americana, Folk, Alternative Country) at Yee Haw Brewing Company 8pm ADAM MCMILLAN (A little bit of everything) at Rainbow Asian Cuisine 9pm BILL & THE BELLES at Bristol’s Pickin’ Porch

JAM WITH FRITO PUENTE

at Wellington’s Restaurant 8pm DREAMCATCHER at Capone’s

TRI-CITIES SHAPE-NOTE CONVENTION ANNUAL CONCERT

at Northeast State Hot Nights, Cool Music BENNY WILSON BAND at Winged Deer Park 7pm

LATRELL w/ SOUL SAUCE

at The Willow Tree Coffeehouse & Music Room 8pm

- FRIDAY - July 29th -

EARTH SUITS (Melodic Cosmic Americana Post Pop Punk) w/ STATE OF SLEEP & LOVE UNIT at Holston River Brewing Co. PLAN Z (Rock) at O’Mainnin’s Pub

GOMER & THE 3 PYLES

at Painter Creek Marina 7pm EARTH BY TRAIN (Progressive/Fusion blend of Jam meets Americana) at The Pinnacle BORDERLINE (Country, Rock) at Quaker Steak & Lube

COAL CREEK w/ BIG DON

at Country Club Bar & Grill SALLY & GEORGE at Founders Park THE PAPER CROWNS at JRH Brewing 7pm

SNAILMATE / TREVOR BORDON ANDREW LEIDNER at Acoustic Coffeehouse - FRIDAY - July 29th THE CALAMITY JONES BAND

(Formerly The Jones Boys) at Sonny’s Marina & Cafe 7pm UNDER THE TABLE (Classic Rock n Roll) at Marker “2” Grill 7pm ADAM MCMILLAN (A little bit of everything) at Hungry I Apex 8pm

SAM LEWIS

at The Willow Tree Coffeehouse & Music Room

BLUESMAN & THE BLUES ESSENTIALS at Stir Fry Cafe - Kingsport 8pm CRAZY LIKE LEXI at Our House Restaurant DEREK & MARCUS of Cutthroat Shamrock at Sleepy Owl Brewery 9pm

22 | July 26, 2016 | theloaferonline.com

- SATURDAY - July 30th -

HB BEVERLY at Bristol Brewery 8pm NIGHTSHIFT (Country, Southern Rock, Oldies)

at The Show Palace 7pm

THE QUEBE SISTERS at Theatre Bristol 6:30pm SOUTHERN COUNTRYMEN BAND (Country) at Willoughby Ruritan

THE SPIRIT OF SOUL DANCE BAND

at Northeast State Hot Nights, Cool Music SULLIVAN STREET (Classic Rock to 80’s rock, modern country/rock) at Elizabethton Moose Lodge

WANTED STRANGER at Painter Creek Marina 7pm

LAUREN COLE BAND (Blues, Rock)

at Elizabethton Covered Bridge Concert Series

THE SHIFTERS / THE ACORN PEOPLE LOOSE LEAVES at Capone’s SWALLOW THE SKY / HORSEBURNER

TOWN BRANCH BLUEGRASS BAND

CATFISH FRYE BAND (Rockin’ Boogie Blues)

BROTHER MOSES

at The Hideaway

at Yee Haw Brewing Company 8pm BELOW 7 (Modern Rock, Alternative) The Mustang Lounge JB5NDIME (Country, Honky Tonk, Americana) at Jiggy Ray’s 7pm RUSTY STEEL (Metal, Southern, Hard Rock) w/ QUARTER BOUNCE at 50 Fifty Sports Tavern

FOLK SOUL REVIVAL / HUNDRED ACRES at Kickin’ Back at King Alley

MADLY BACKWARDS at Bristol Brewery 8pm EXIT 23 at Bone Fire Smokehouse 9pm JORDY GREENE at Acoustic Coffeehouse

LARRY SPARKS & LONESOME RAMBLERS at Bluegrass on Broad - Downtown Kingsport 7pm MARSHALL BALLEW at Bone Fire Smokehouse

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

- SATURDAY - July 30th GRANT MEREDITH

at Sonny’s Marina & Cafe 7pm ASYLUM SUITE at Marker “2” Grille 7pm

TUATHA DEA w/ REAL LIFE HEAVIES at Capone’s

STRANGERS ON THE WATER

at Laurel Marina 7pm RUSTY STEEL (Metal, Southern, Hard Rock) w/ QUARTER BOUNCE at The Eagles Club - Castlewood VA

APPALACHIAN STRINGS at David Thompson’s Produce

HOLY GRAIL / EXMORTUS SPELLCASTER / 1134 at The Hideaway 10pm SCOTT MILLER at Down Home 8pm BELOW 7 at The Mustang Lounge STAGECOACH (Classic & New Country, Southern Rock, Classic Rock, Bluegrass & Gospel) at Silver Spur

at Carter Family Fold

SPANK

at Holston River Brewing Company 8pm at Sleepy Owl Brewery 8pm

BIG KOUNTRY at Bristol VFW 9pm

THE BILLY CRAWFORD BAND at Draper VA Blues & BBQ Festival

COAL CREEK w/ BIG DON

at Country Club Bar & Grill ADAM LAWSON (Americana, Folk, Alternative Country) at O’Mainnin’s Pub

FORTRESS DAN at Jiggy Ray’s 4pm

JOSEPH HOUCK

at Yee Haw Brewing Company 7pm

CARRINGTON KAY Bone Fire Smokehouse

PORCELAIN

at Acoustic Coffeehouse

- SUNDAY - July 31st IVY ROAD at Marker “2” Grille THE P.F. FLYERS (Oldies rock & roll)

at The Outdoorsman 6pm MARK LARKINS at Sportsmans Marina 4pm

SMOKEY MTN SIDESHOW

at Sonny’s Marina & Cafe 4pm SIGEAN (Irish, Celtic) at VA Highlands Festival LIVE MUSIC at Bone Fire Smokehouse

TIM FAST / COLD COUNTRY JAZZ & BLUES at Acoustic Coffeehouse - MONDAY - Aug. 1st -

OPEN MIC at Acoustic Coffeehouse

Spotlight Directory 50 Fifty Sports Tavern 2102 N. Roan Street Johnson City Bone Fire Smokehouse at the Hardware 260 W Main St Abingdon Va 276/623-0037 Bristol Brewery 41 Piedmont Ave Bristol VA 276/608-1220 Bristol VFW Post 6975 14 16th St. Bristol TN 423/764-0381 Bristol’s Pickin’ Porch 620 State St Bristol 423/573-2262 Capone’s 227 E Main St Johnson City 423/928-2295 Carter Family Fold 3449 A. P. Carter Hwy Hiltons VA 276/594-0676 Country Club Bar & Grill 3080 W State St Bristol 423/844-0400 Down Home 300 W. Main St. Johnson City 423/929-9822 Eagles Club 1097 Boody Rd. Castlewood Va 276/762-9837 Elizabethton Moose Lodge 288 Lovers Lane Elizabethton 423/542-5454 The Harvest Table Restaurant 13180 Meadowview Sq Meadowview Va 276/944-5140 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 JRH Brewing 458 W. Walnut St. Johnson City 423/ 722-3410 Kickin’ Back at King’s Alley 156 E. Jackson St. Gate City VA 276/386-3831 Laurel Marina 191 Shady Ford Rd. Bristol 423/ 878-3721 Marker “2’ Grill at Lakeview Marina 474 Lakeside Dock, Kingsport 423/323-4665 The Mustang Lounge 1516 N. Broad St. Tazewell VA Northeast State Community College 2425 Highway 75 Blountville TN O’Mainnin’s Pub 712 State St Bristol 423/844-0049 Our House Restaurant 4903 N. Roan St. Johnson City 423/ 282-1555 The Outdoorsman 4535 Highway 11W Kingsport Painter Creek Marina 766 Painter Creek Rd Bristol TN 423/878-5775 The Pinnacle Pinnacle Parkway, Bristol TN Quaker Steak & Lube 629 State St Bristol VA 276/644-9647 Rainbow Asian Cuisine 2412 N. Roan St. Johnson City 423/ 232-6688

KARAOKE TUESDAY Karaoke w/ Absolute Entertainment at Boomershine’s Pizza Karaoke at 50Fifty Sports Tavern Karaoke at Numan’s - Johnson City TN Karaoke at Painter Creek Marina *********************** WEDNESDAY Karaoke w/ Southern Sounds Karaoke at American Legion 8pm Karaoke w/ Absolute Entertainment at Smokey Bones - Johnson City TN Turn the Page Karaoke at VFW Post 2108 - Johnson City TN *********************** THURSDAY Karaoke at Numan’s - Johnson City TN Karaoke at Holiday Inn - Johnson City TN Karaoke w/ Absolute Entertainment at Mellow Mushroom & Macado’s Karaoke at Jiggy Ray’s Pizzaria ***********************

Rock’s Wood Fired Pizza & Grill 3119 Bristol Hwy. Johnson City 423 / 262-0444 Show Palace 14364 Lee Hwy Bristol VA 276/494-6610 Silver Spur RR 6 Gate City VA 276/ 452-2664 Sleepy Owl Brewery 151 E. Main St. Kingsport 423/390-8476 Sonny’s Marina & Café 109 One St. Gray TN 423/283-4014 Stir Fry Café 125 Broad Street Kingsport 423/343-9424 Wellington’s Restaurant Carnegie Hotel 1216 W State of Franklin Rd Johnson City 423/979-6400 Willoughby Ruritan 5145 Marvin Rd Bulls Gap VA The Willow Tree Coffeehouse & Music Room 216 E Main St Johnson City Winged Deer Park 4137 Bristol Hwy Johnson City 423/ 283-5816 Yee Haw Brewing Company 126 Buffalo St. Johnson City

FRIDAY Karaoke w/ Southern Sounds Karaoke at Sportsman’s Bar & Grill 9pm Karaoke w/ Reverb Karaoke at The Cottage 8:30 pm Turn the Page Karaoke at VFW Post 2108 - Johnson City TN Karaoke at Elizabethton VFW - Elizabethton TN Karaoke w/ DJ Marques at Holiday Inn (Exit 7) - Bristol VA Karaoke at Numan’s - Johnson City TN Karaoke w/ Absolute Entertainment at Greeneville VFW *********************** SATURDAY Karaoke at The Horseshoe Lounge 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 *********************** SUNDAY Karaoke w/ Absolute Entertainment at Biggie’s Clam BAr **********************

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MARS, JUPITER, SATURN UNDER EARTH’S WATCHFUL EYE

hat a glorious time to be interested in astronomy. As we gaze upon three planets that dazzle our night sky, robots from Earth are sending back photos and data that are revolutionizing our understanding of the Solar System. These Summer nights you can from you own backyard see the points of light that are gold Jupiter, red Mars and yellow Saturn. With a small telescope you can even see their tiny globes and features… and oh, my, those rings! But that’s old school. This is the 21st Century, age of information. You want to see the planets? Just hop on the Internet and surf right into the eyes of America’s sophisticated robots that are revealing the true nature of alien worlds. No other country on Earth has invested more in brains and money than American—and its space agency, NASA, shares the data with the world. Images are posted almost immediately on the various Internet social media locations and home websites. And you better believe that Joe and Jane America are following! The latest NASA explosion on Twitter was following the risky orbital insertion on July 4th of the Juno spacecraft into a polar orbit around Jupiter, the king of the Solar System. With a 48-minute delay in radio time from a distance of 600 million miles, Twitter accounts in the midst of the action posted a blow-by-blow of the first-time events unfolding aboard Juno. Called by the Jet Propulsion Lab spacecraft engineers as one of the most difficult events among NASA legendary history, Juno was grabbed by Jupiter’s tremendous gravity and skimmed the cloud tops at 3,000 miles away, reaching a speed exceeding 150,000 mph. A retro engine fired successfully for some 40 minutes slowing Juno down to allow Jupiter’s gravity to grab it in an elliptical orbit. Juno’s orbit of Jupiter dips to 2,700 miles over the cloud tops and then moves out to two million miles at its farthest. The radiation around Jupiter is rarified with incredible danger, and Juno is built to last around two years, making maybe 17 orbits each lasting 53.5 days. What astronomers want to learn from Juno is what’s beneath the thick cloud deck of mostly super-cold hydrogen; how the intense magnetic field and harsh radiation works; and the dynamics of both poles as Juno orbits over them. Jupiter in the evening sky is just a little sweeter knowing a new NASA space probe is doing its thing as we watch—with our own eyes or on the Internet. Mars beckons us to look up directly south, the red point of light shining like a garnet just out of reach. Having been closest to Earth in May 2016, the Red Planet is moving farther from our planet and therefore getting smaller. Still, in a backyard telescope you can see a tiny, pinkish disk with some dark markings on the surface. But orbiting and on the surface of Mars are seven—that’s right, and incredible seven! —operating spacecraft proving incredible images and data of the planet most like Earth. Though more like Antarctica than any other place on our planet, Mars still could harbor life and once had oceans and rivers. That’s the bottom line from 50 years of our Martian invasion of unmanned spaceships during the Space Age. Mars Odyssey is incredibly in its 15th year orbiting Mars, having discovered buried ice and determined surface compositions around the planet. The European Space Agency’s Mars Express has been orbiting since December 2003, and Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter (MRO) since August 2005. And the newest NASA orbiter is MAVEN, working since September 2014 on the Red Planet’s atmosphere, climate history and potential habitability. And India has

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its first interplanetary spacecraft, Mangalyaan, also orbiting Mars since September 2014. And you can’t forget two NASA rovers on Mars—Opportunity since January 2004 and Curiosity since August 2012. Both rovers have performed as planned with Opportunity’s 12 years completely unexpected as it was guaranteed for only a threemonth mission. With all these space robots probing Jupiter and Mars, perhaps the most amazing mission is that of the billion-dollar NASA spacecraft Cassini that has been orbiting ringed Saturn for 12 years since July 2004, and has revolutionized our thinking about this jewel of the night. Our understanding of those magnificent rings that say “astronomy” is now largely due to Cassini, named after the 17th Century astronomer who first recorded the wide division in the rings that bears his name. In a word, the rings are incredible. They are 200,000 miles from tip to tip, but less than 2,000 feet, a little over a quarter mile, at its thickest. That is a ratio of a sheet of white copy paper thickness that is 10 miles wide! The rings are a complex array of different sized ice and rock from inches to feet, clumping together by size in different rings. Yet there are some ice cliffs pulled out by various Saturn moons. Some of the small moons control areas of the rings, causing ropy clumps and wavy sections. It seems each of the three planets in our Summer nights has something amazing to offer. And we’ve just scratched the surface. And there’s a fourth planet, er, dwarf planet, that is also in the evening sky—Pluto. That polarizing former planet is near the handle of the asterism teapot that is part of Sagittarius and seen only by large telescopes. Visited for the first and last time a year ago on July 14, 2015 by NASA’s New Horizons spacecraft, what was revealed is utterly shocking as well as amazing. This world that is slightly larger than our Moon is one of the most dynamic objects in the Solar system with frozen, -250 F. degrees below zero nitrogen, hydrogen and other ingredients that flow like rivers and icebergs. New Horizons has taken a year to send back all its data, as it has slowly trickled to Earth from the spacecraft now 5 billion miles away and headed for another small dwarf planet. Which will no doubt give us more surprises. Look up and see these alien worlds with your own eyes. Then spend a little time looking up the amazing images form America’s interplanetary space robots.

his week in space history features the third American Moon landing by Apollo 15 and the second long-duration mission aboard the space station Skylab. The Moon is out of our evening skies, affording a great week of stargazing and watching the Milky Way rise into our evening. Planets Jupiter, Mars and Saturn are strung across the ecliptic—it’s a perfect week to be out under the stars! Grab a star chart out of a book or the Internet and have some. Tues. July 26 Lay down outside on a blanket or chair and watch the twilight grip the Summer evening. Which stars pop out first? Look directly south for red Mars, and to its left is golden Saturn. Directly overhead is the third brightest star in the sky, yellow Arcturus. The twilight has to deepen for gold colored Jupiter to shine like a jewel above the western horizon. Wed. July 27 On this 1972 date in space history, Apollo 15 was half-way to the Moon after a launch July 26th. In the belly of the Lunar Module lander was the first car to be driven on an alien world, the Lunar Rover. Destination for astronauts David Scott and James Irwin was an ancient lava river called Hadley Rille. Thurs. July 28 On this 1973 date in space history, the second three-man expedition to America’s space station Skylab was launched on a 59-day

Celestial events in the skies for the week of July 26 -Aug. 1st 2016, as compiled for The Loafer by Mark D. Marquette.

mission. This was the longest space mission at the time, filled with biomedical experiments to observe how the human body adapts to weightlessness. Fri. July 29 The Milky Way is front and center in our night stage as it stretches from the northeast to the southeast when its good and dark around 10 pm. Any pair of binoculars will show the countless stars of our Galaxy, an opportunity to get lost in your thoughts about what is really “out there.” Sat. July 30 On this 1971 date in space history, Apollo 15 landed on the Moon beside an ancient lava river. Moonwalkers David Scott and James Irwin deployed the first Lunar Rover, giving them a range of more than 7 miles in one direction away

from their moonship. They brought back 170 pounds of rock and core samples from the Hadley Mountains. Sun. July 31 The Summer Triangle straddles the Milky Way high overhead. The star to the north is Deneb in Cygnus the Swan, directly overhead is Vega in Lyra the Harp and to the south is Altair in Aquila the Eagle. Mon. Aug. 1 Rip a page off the calendar and it’s suddenly August. This month was the sixth in the Roman Year (that began with March) and called “Sextilis.” But in 8 BC, new Emperor Augustus Caesar renamed the month after himself, since his great Uncle Julius had his own month, July, too.

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SIGEAN Four friends who shared a common interest in Irish traditional music formed Sigean in 1997. They were Clay Henry, Tom Swadley, James Skeen, and Eric Olive. Together they practiced and performed Sigean’s first gig at Roan Mountain State Park and began to bring the traditional music of Ireland to growing audiences. The region has always been a hotbed of traditional American music, with audiences who know and love the sound of string bands, Bluegrass, traditional dance music, and balladry. That audiences here are perfectly primed to enjoy Old-time dance music’s Irish cousins, the jig and reel, comes as no surprise. Current members are Frank Wing, R. Reagan DeBusk, John Rushing, Buz Lee, Tom Swadley and Marcianne O’day. The lineup has changed since 1997, with former Sigean members moving on to play with other regionally important and internationally known acts, but the signature sound, repertoire, and spirit remains the same. Sigean plays acoustic Irish music, in a traditional way, like you’d hear in a kitchen amongst good friends.

SOUTHERN REBELLION

STAGECOACH BAND

Classic & new Country, Southern Rock, Classic Rock, Bluegrass & Gospel The band Stagecoach is a 4-piece band we play classic and new country, Southern rock, classic rock, bluegrass and gospel. They play many venues, as well as private parties, weddings, and more. They are from southwest VA and the tri-cities TN. We have a very good sound system and are capable of doing small or large events. All 4 members of the band also sing. Follow them on Facebook and Reverbnation. They do benefits for a good cause as well.

Hard Driven Country Music

Established in 2013, we began gigging around the Tri-Cities area to build up our name. The following three years has brought us on a crazy musical journey of ups and downs but all in all so much has been learned. With the help of taking first place in the Battle of the Bands competition at the Appalachian Fair Grounds, the grand prize of three fully mastered songs at The Sound Asylum, we now have our first EP as a band out on 5 different online stores such as iTunes and Google Play for Android that has been streamed and bought in countries all over the world. We have been very fortunate to have such a great fan base around here and look forward to growing the Southern Rebellion Party Crowd.

SULLIVAN STREET

Classic Rock to 80’s rock, modern country/rock

SOVEREIGN Hard Rock, Metal

Sovereign is the latest hard rock/metal band hailing from the Tri Cities. The brainchild of guitarist Donnie Alexander and bassist/ keyboardist Tim McKinney, Sovereign is the result of putting together 2 of the most well known bands in the area of the past 15 years. With a lineup of multi-instrumentalists and vocalists from Southwest Virginia and Western North Carolina, it is anyone’s guess what is coming up next at a Sovereign show. Whether you’re an old-school metal head or modern rock freak (or anything in between), you will leave a Sovereign show thoroughly rocked out and wanting more. Being a recently assembled group, many show dates are in the works, so be sure to watch and listen for us out there! Sovereign are: Myron Steffey, Brian Pullen, Joe Arnold, Donnie Alexander, Tim McKinney

Sullivan Street is a cover band, made up of Jonathan Adams/lead singer & keyboard, Anthony Lawson/guitar, Steven King/drums and Kevin Robert/bass, with each member having an extensive musical background who come together to create a unique musical experience. Each member sings and have been part of other musical projects/bands so they have many years in the music scene. The types of music you will find in a typical Sullivan Street show range from classic rock to 80’s rock, modern country to some modern rock so there is something for everyone to enjoy! You can follow the band on Facebook at facebook.com/ Sullivan-Street.

Grab contact info on these awesome talent at: theloaferonline.com/band-booking/ 26 | July 26, 2016 | theloaferonline.com

SUNDOWN BAND Classic Country w/ a touch of Motown & Classic rock The Band was formed in the 80’s and played for several years and then took a hiatus to focus on family and work. The band regrouped in 2012 and has been playing almost every weekend since. Our objectives are to play music that you can dance to and are familiar with. Members include James (Junior) Hensley, guitar and lead vocals, Jamie Hickman, drums, and Mike Smith, bass and vocals.

SWALLOW THE SKY Outer sound

Swallow The Sky was formed by Michael D. Peck, Josh Basham, and Chris Bryant in 2014. Together, they fuse each of their individual musical influences to create original music that defies category. They have a free EP online https:// swallowthesky.bandcamp.com/releases, and are currently working with the legendary Blackbird Studios in Nashville on their follow up.

the casual word By Langley Shazor

Follow Langley on FB & Youtube at TheCasualword

Glass keys Cartoons play in the foreground Rain falls in the back Tiny fingers navigate glass keys Muscle Memory As frequency is increased Stories unfold Of days and nights Of reality and dreams Mental focus heightened Dexterous movement The striking of hammers So much to say So much to learn Pass on the love and art Pass on the joy and release Pass your hands atop these glass keys theloaferonline.com | July 26, 2016 | 27

THUNDERCOCK Rock

Thundercock is an experimental rock band from Johnson City that mixes elements of punk, surf, funk, progressive, and unadulterated rock and roll into an amalgam that eludes description. Fueled by an unrelenting thirst for beer and absurdity, Thundercock was founded in September of 2012 by gentlemen sharing a mutual love for bands such as Ween and Butthole Surfers. They have since set themselves to the task of innovating a unique sound where tight musicianship meets organized chaos while tackling complex lyrical themes such as Smurf meat, sippy cups, and mythical beasts. They are known for their energetic stage presence and joyful disdain for convention. Equally comfortable with a two-minute ditty or a sprawling epic, Thundercock is an oddity within the NE Tennessee music community, moving fluently between genres but never quite at home in one scene. Though they may defy categorization, Thundercock promises to rock your face off.

TIMELESS

Classic Rock and New Rock 70’s - Today Timeless are a group of guys that have been playing music all our lives and really enjoy playing for a crowd and seeing everyone having fun! Three of us are old high school classmates and were in the band/chorus. The other is a local guy also and has been playing music all his life. Our combined musical tastes/influences give us our unique sound and affords us a playlist ranging from A-Z. We play all venues, large or small, and private bookings such as parties, reunions, etc. as well. If you like to “Rock!”, come see us play. Contact us for your next event and be sure to check out our Facebook page for upcoming shows, pics, videos and more!

WOLF CREEK

Eclectic Americana

UNDER THE TABLE Classic Rock

Playing for the last 7 years Under the Table is a high-energy band from the Tri-Cities. We play the best classic, southern and modern rock from the 60’s to the present. Our roots are in classic rock music but we occasionally branch into country, alternative and blues as well. We have a constantly growing song list chock full of fast and slow dance songs, crowd participation songs, and great listening music. We also take special requests with advanced notice for your special occasion. We are a full package band with our own PA system, lighting, and dedicated sound engineer. Look no further for guaranteed entertainment at your next event. In addition to regular club bookings we are available for birthday parties, wedding receptions, high school reunions, and other special events. Find out more about us on Facebook, Reverbnation, and www.underthetableband. com.

ZAFFIRE

Zaffire is a rock band formed in the late ‘80s by Steven Brickey (drums), Scott Calton (lead guitar, backing vocals), Anthony Crawford (bass, backing vocals), and Anthony Hodges (rhythm guitar). The rocking crew won their high school talent show which led to many performances in the Tri-Cities over several years into the early ‘90s. Almost 20 years later, the group reunited for a jam session and history began to repeat itself. Since 2010, Zaffire has played various festivals and venues with Regina Hodges on lead vocals and Jennifer Crawford and Tina Brickey on backing vocals, sharing a diverse variety of genres including high-energy classic ‘80s and southern rock, fitting for all events, large or small. Book Zaffire for your next private party or community event for a fun-filled time for all ages! Due to family time and careers, Zaffire doesn’t seek to maintain a regularly-booked schedule, but both they and their fans love an occasional crowd-rocking extravaganza!

Grab contact info on these awesome talent at: theloaferonline.com/band-booking/ 28 | July 26, 2016 | theloaferonline.com

Rock

Let’s Go Party

was cleaning in the kitchen the other day, listening to one of those “90s Throwback Playlists” on the internet. As I was scrubbing up the coffee mugs, “Barbie Girl” came on. “Ohhhhh yeahhhhhhh” I said to myself in a high pitched tone of Middle School days. The song ended, I set all my dishes on the drying rack, and I went on with my day. I went by the grocery to pick up some coffee--the most important ground food in the world. As I walked into the store, I could hear, just faintly in the background “Come on, Barbie! Let’s Go Party!” “Huh, well isn’t that something!” I thought to myself. There wasn’t any clear reason for the song to come on, the music changed abruptly to top 40 Country right afterwards--I lost count of how many times I heard the words “Truck” and “Lake.” “That’s a rather odd fluke” I thought, as I loaded the twelve cases of coffee I purchased into the car. After taking the coffee home, I went out into the world again, this time to meet with friends for bottomless steak mimosas at T.J. McSwizzlebear’s. Around the third round, we ran out of A-1 sauce, and I noticed something odd happening again. After we laughed and tried to get more sauce, I heard the music in the restaurant going “Come on, Barbie! Let’s go party!” This, is when I began to think of how strange I heard the same song, three times, in three places, within the same day. The friends I was with, noticed I was looking off in the background. My friend Daniel nudged me in the arm and asked “What’s wrong, pal?” “Oh, nothing. Just. Well, it’s odd. I’ve heard ‘Barbie Girl’ three times today” I said, “third time, was just now, right here.” “Barbie Girl? I didn’t hear anything” Daniel replied. With that, we asked the others if they had heard “Barbie Girl” too. Not a single one of them said that they heard “Come on, Barbie! Let’s go party!” I felt a terror deep inside of me that I hadn’t felt since I asked my crush to prom. My jaw dropped, and a chunk of steak fell to the floor. In what seemed to be a slow motion instant playback, my friends all turned their heads towards me with a worrisome look. I got up, and ran out the door. At my therapist’s office, I was telling him that I thought I was being haunted by the song “Barbie Girl.” “Are you taking your anxiety medication?” he asked. I responded “Yes! I’ve not missed a day! But don’t you think it’s odd none of my friends heard it?” The doctor looked at me for a moment, the silence of the moment was broken when I heard “Come on, Barbie! Let’s go party!” The doctor stood and said “That’s my phone. I’ve got to get this, waiting to hear how my daughter’s college tour is going.” As the doctor was on his phone, questions swirled in my mind. Should

I get a doc that silences his phone when he has a session? Am I going insane? Is this a dream? As the doctor set his phone down, I went over to him, grabbed him by the shoulders and said. “Doc, it’s VERY important you tell me one thing. What is your ringtone?” Confused, the doctor looked at me and said “Ode to Joy.” My eyes widened, I rushed to the car. Driving home, I kept the radio off, my phone on mute, and sang “Holly Holy” loudly to myself over and over again. Home, I did all I could distract my mind. I ran into my movie room, loaded up a disc of “Thunderbirds” episodes, then settled in riddled with anxiety. As the great puppet-action series began in it’s usual way, things were fine. But, instead of hearing the well known cry of “Thunderbirds are go!” what I heard was “Thunderbirds are GO PARTY!” I jumped up, panicking. The theme song to “Thunderbirds” had been replaced with “AH, AH, AH, YEAH!” My own house wasn’t safe anymore, I ran into the streets to see if the pod people had come for us all at last--was there even a civilization left!? I ran into the street screaming “They’re coming for you! They’ll make you go party!” The street was not a dystopian nightmare, it was a picturesque day. There was a utility worker at the house next to mine, standing by his truck, clipboard in hand. They noticed I was screaming, freaking out, and yelled “Hey! You OK? There’s been a small gas leak in this area and it’s been causing some people to hallucinate!” Ah. An answer, I’m not going crazy, I had been almost poisoned by a leaky pipe. Maybe I would be alright after all. I went for a walk, cleared my mind of the gassy air, and soon my desire to go party, or even hear it was gone. Yet, when I came back home from the walk, I swear there was a beat up Barbie doll left on my porch. Maybe brought there by a dog. Maybe. May. Be. See you next week.

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Ghostbusters

(3 ghosts out of 4)

Can you believe the supernatural comedy “Ghostbusters” burst onto the pop culture scene back in 1984? While 1984 seems like eons ago, the film is an iconic part of film history, and spawned a 1989 sequel, plus a reboot with the 2016 release “Ghostbusters”. The new version features female leads Melissa McCarthy, Kristen Wiig, Kate McKinnon, Leslie Jones, and actor Chris Hemsworth (“Thor”) thrown in for good measure. The film also features nice cameos from the original “Ghostbusters” actors, and one of the executive producers is Dan Aykroyd. In the new version of the film, McCarthy’s character Abby Yates and Wiig’s character Erin Gilbert, are co-authors of a book about ghosts that Erin thought was forever buried. However, when Erin discovers the book she co-authored is all over the internet, she visits Abby, and after a brief argument, the two, along with engineer Jillian Holtzmann (McKinnon) are soon on the case of a ghost sighting at a local museum. The ghost encounter at the museum proves both exhilarating and worrisome for the trio, and soon they hatch a plan to once again begin regular paranormal investigations as an occupation. When the trio finds a location for their business above a neighborhood Chinese restaurant, they realize they need someone to be their receptionist. Enter Hemsworth. Hemsworth’s character Kevin Beckman, is a selfabsorbed dim wit with little talent other than his ability to look good. Once the ladies are settled in their office with their eye candy, their first client, Patty (Jones) shows up with her harrowing tale of a ghost in the area where she works in the New York City subway. Shortly after their ghostly experience with Patty, the subway employee manages to make herself part of the group. While

Jillian has been creating devices to fight spirits, the bad guy of the film, Rowan (Neil Casey) has been preparing to release hundreds of dangerous spirits via several devices he has built in order to bring about the apocalypse. In addition to the pending ghostly disaster, the trio of ghost busters are fighting an image problem created by the mayor of N.Y.C., who even though he knows the threat is real, wants to keep everything secret from the public to avoid total chaos, and brands the hunters fake. Even though the hunters are perceived by the public as imposters, they continue their work and eventually face a major battle with hundreds of released spirits. The movie features appearances by many of the ghosts we remember from the original film and, of course, has the Ecto-1 car used by the hunters. All the lead actresses do a wonderful job in their respective roles, and give the film a refreshing feel. I specifically enjoyed the performances of Jones and Hemsworth as the two nearly stole the film from the other actors. Jones was perfect as the street-wise New Yorker who knew “every inch of the city” and provided the film with plenty of snappy retorts. As for Hemsworth, he was marvelous in his role of the dumb but lovable Kevin. It was really nice to see a male in the role of a great looking/dim witted secretary, giving the film yet another tone of newness. As one might expect, the special effects were top notch, and I highly recommend viewing the film in 3D, as I found myself wanting to dodge various items many time during the screening. While I know nearly all of us loved the original film, give the new “Ghostbusters” a chance as the 2016 version will not leave you feeling haunted by the original. (Rated PG-13)

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The Kent Garner Interview

ere is a big transition for you, from Sea World to the Smoky Mountains. You never know who you are going to meet around here and I gotta say there are plenty of great people here who have moved from other places to spend the rest of their life. Kent Garner is one of those people you need to meet. His story is one of a kind, his motivation for moving here embraces who we are and his profession is cutting edge. Get to know Kent Garner, you will be glad you did! BRIAN: Kent, you are not from the region originally. Will you share a little about where you grew up and how your youth shaped who you are today? KENT: I grew up in Orlando and lived on a lake. So, naturally, I had an affinity towards the water. When I wasn’t waterskiing, I would be surfing at New Smyrna Beach, which was about an hour from my house. At 18 years of age, I turned professional and enjoyed a 10-year career as a show skier at Sea World. I still enjoy the sport even today, especially on Watauga Lake. BRIAN: That is quite a transition to end up in the mountains of Northeast Tennessee and Southwest Virginia! What brought you to the region and do you feel like the local culture has become a part of who you are? KENT: Yes, a lot of people from this area thought I was crazy for moving to Greeneville from Orlando. However, after I gave them my reasons – simpler way of life, a more wholesome environment to raise my kids, they didn’t think it was so outrageous after all. I like to say the beauty of the mountains, lakes, and rivers are what initially attracted me and my family to the area, but it was the friendly people and Appalachian culture are what made me want to stay! I haven’t ever looked back since. BRIAN: Faith is a large part of the culture in our region. How does your faith affect your daily life? KENT: Faith is a big part of who I am today. An important factor in my decision to relocate to the region 18 years ago was indeed the people that place a high priority on faith, family, and country. Everyday, I try to live out my faith in an integrated Christian way. In other words, I strive in everything I say and do whether in my business, family, and recreation life, lead from a Christcentered approach. BRIAN: You are very involved in the digital world and in helping businesses be more effective with their marketing efforts. Why is it so important for any business to know what they are doing with electronic marketing? KENT: Let me first start by saying that I’ve been in the marketing business for over 25 years. I’ve always helped business folks find solutions for their marketing needs. It has been my only career and I love it! Now that I have somewhat hinted at my age, let me hang it all out there by saying that I have witness the birth of digital marketing. Every business now knows that digital and mobile is here to stay. We do nearly everything on our mobile devices. The digital space is where the consumers are communicating with family, friends, and business. So, unless business has developed a strategy for reaching and engaging their target audience in the new media, they will get left behind. BRIAN: I can’t end our conversation without giving you the chance to talk about some of the things you are involved with a t High Road Digital and tell people how they can find out more. Go. KENT: Jones Media Group located in Greeneville, TN owns High Road Digital. JMG also owns 14 community newspapers across North Carolina and Tennessee. So, we have the support and resources of a large regional company. We have a very deep bench of 14 very creative marketing experts with a diverse background in print, broadcast, radio, web/graphic design, social media, and video. Even though we specialize in the digital space, we can assist our clients with other marketing services typically found in a traditional agency. So, if a business needs print collateral, TV or radio media buys, we can help. Any business that mentions this article, I will offer a free digital audit and 1-hour consultation. Feel free to reach out to me if you have any marketing questions: kent@highroaddigital.com.

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Quick, to the Bat Bridge!

ou know how you feel about that one acquaintance who’s just a little too proud to be from Texas? Well, Texans think that same thing about people from Austin. From the government beaurocrats to the microbrew-sipping hipsters to the (other) UT students, Austinites do love their city - and for good reason. One of the nation’s fastest growing cities, the capital of the Lone Star State is known for its laid-back vibe, its hip live music scene, and of course its 1.5 million residents who live underneath the Congress Avenue Bridge. No, there isn’t any epic human tragedy playing out beneath a Texas bridge you somehow missed hearing about. No humans at all, in fact. You see, the Congress Avenue Bridge is home to the world’s largest urban bat colony. That’s right. Bats. Up to 1.5 million of the little guano machines (known more formally as Mexican free-tailed bats) set up shop there every summer. Why? Well, it’s a fine bridge, of

course - concrete arches, about 1000 feet long, a little over 100 years old - but otherwise the span is pretty unremarkable. However, a 1980 renovation added a series of smallish crevices to the structure that for whatever reason, became super-attractive to the few hundred bats already living in the bridge’s drainage system. Word must’ve gotten out, because within three years, the bat population had ballooned to seven figures. So essentially the answer is, “Because they like it there, that’s why.” What really makes this scene spectacular though, is that every evening during the summer, around twenty minutes before sunset, they come out to hunt. The sight of thousands upon thousands of bats flying out amidst the glow of the setting sun draws hundreds of spectators especially during the ‘peak bat season’ in late July. Presumably, crowds are even larger during the annual Bat Fest, which is absolutely a thing. The bats are free to look at and they don’t mind hav-

ing their picture taken. As long as you leave them alone, they’re are harmless too. In fact, since the group munches down on 10-20,000 pounds of insects each night, they actually make pretty great neighbors. Better than your usual bridge-dwelling colony anyway.

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THE ABINGDON FARMERS MARKET’S he Abingdon Farmers Market will hold its annual Tomato Fest Saturday, July 30th. With free tomato tastings, a biggest tomato competition, salsa demonstrations and sampling, salsa dancing, live music and face painting for kids, the festival is a time to celebrate the start of tomato season in Southwest Virginia and the true beginning of summer. The Abingdon Farmer’s market opens at8:00am Saturday, with Tomato Fest events kicking off at 9:00am.

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TOMATO FEST

Between 9:00am and 1:00pm, vendors will be offering free samples of many different types of tomatoes, including Cherokee Purple, Giant Belgium, Ponderosa Pink and more, all locally grown. There will also be a “Biggest Tomato” contest among vendors to determine what vendor has grown the largest tomato thus far. The announcement of that winner will be at 12:30pm. There will also be a salsa making demonstration held on the lawn. Andrea Wann with the Virginia Extension Office will be making a delicious and unique salsa for market customers to taste. Nathan Breeding with Southern Culture will also be doing a special tomato recipe demonstration on the lawn as well. Recipes will also be available at each table. These events will begin at 9am and go on until all samples have been given out. The Tomato Fest will include a kids craft center for face painting, fingerprint art and coloring. This activity will be located at the picnic tables located on the lawn beside of the salsa demonstration table. All children’s activities will begin at 9am and last through 1pm. Bj Golliday will be doing a salsa dancing demonstration and workshop from 10am-noon on the dance floor that will be located in the middle of the lawn vendors. Customers will be welcome to watch the demonstration and then participate in learning the steps of Salsa Dancing. The Abingdon Farmers Market will be having its regular market during this event. Over 45 vendors will be selling all local produce, meats and crafts from 8am to 1pm. The Music at the Market program will also be hosting local band “Chris Jamison” from 9am-12pm. The Abingdon Farmers Market is sponsored by Berry Home Centers, The Washington County Rotary Club, The Harvest Table Restaurant, The Town of Abingdon and Iron Mountain Crossfit. Contact Market Manager Haley Stewart at (276)-698-1434 or email abingdonmarket@gmail.com with any questions, or visit the market website at www.abingdonfarmersmarket.com or follow them on Facebook.

Jonesborough Welcomes Noa Baum

oa Baum, an award-winning storyteller who originally hails from Israel, will be the next teller in residence to take the stage for the International Storytelling Center’s acclaimed Storytelling Live! series. A longtime storyteller who was new to the National Storytelling Festival in 2015, Baum was warmly received by audiences in Jonesborough. For this set of performances, Baum plans to share a wide variety of tales to fill out her weeklong artistic residency. Though she tends to arrange her story sets around subtle themes, all performances will offer a balance of Baum’s personal tales, folklore, and other traditional stories, including the occasional dip into the Jewish lore she’s known since she was small. Baum’s concerts will run Tuesday through Saturday, August 2 – 6. All performances will begin at 2:00 p.m. sharp in the International Storytelling Center’s Mary B. Martin Storytelling Hall in downtown Jonesborough. Tickets are just $12 for adults and $11 for seniors, students, and children under 18. Walk-in seating is available on a first-come, firstserved basis, but advance purchase is strongly recommended. Baum turned to storytelling soon after she moved to the U.S., first as a graduate student and then as a companion to her American husband. Many of her tales reach back to her girlhood in Jerusalem and her first trips to America, when she ac-

Photo by Sam Kitner

baum . . .

continued on page 38

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Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area

Photo and article by

ppalachia is a an enormous region which stretches across a significant portion of eastern North America, from Canada all the way to Alabama. Landforms and topography vary widely, from the craggy peaks of the White Mountains in New Hampshire to the high meadows and plateaus of West Virginia. Here in Tennessee and our neighboring states, the mountains of the Blue Ridge province dominate not only the skyline, but also the travel industry. While the Great Smokies, Blue Ridge Mountains, and the Blacks no doubt are the most spectacular portion of the Appalachian Mountains, there are many other amazing and beautiful areas we should explore and protect. Perhaps the most overlooked region is that lying to our west, on the nearby Cumberland Plateau. Stretching across the states of Kentucky, Tennessee, Alabama, and Georgia, the Cumberland Plateau soars over a thousand feet above the surrounding lowlands. In our own state and nearby Kentucky, the tableland is topped off by mountains along the eastern escarpment; these peaks reach maximum elevations of over four thousand feet, culminating in Kentucky’s highest point at Black Mountain. Sparsely populated, the plateau boasts some of the most rugged and also some of the most remote areas in the southeast. Rugged gorges plunge hundreds of feet deep where rivers have cut deep into the sandstone which makes up the core of the highland. Waterfalls can be found along almost every stream as they drop over the gorges’ towering cliffs. Forests stretch for miles in every direction. Many thousands of acres of national forests, state parks, and wildlife management areas already protect some of the greatest areas and can provide a lifetime of exploration for us adventurers. Perhaps the best introduction to the area can be experienced by paying a visit to the crown jewel of all the plateau’s protected lands: Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area. Serving as an official unit of the National Park Service, Big South Fork is the area’s answer the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, only slightly smaller and much less crowded. The park spans more then 125,000 acres and stretches more than 30 miles across Tennessee and Kentucky. Established in 1974, the park serves to protect the headwaters of the Big South Fork of the Cumberland River and its two main tributaries, the New River and Clear Fork, both of which flow down from the mountains. While it is rather remote, the park is easily accessible from both interstates 40 and 75. If you are approaching from the Tri Cities or Knoxville area, the easiest way to access the park is via TN 63 directly off I-75’s exit 141. You’ll pass through the small town of Oneida where you can stop and pick up supplies, but don’t expect to find any hotels there. Unlike the Smokies, the park lies under most vacationer’s radar, and not much of a tourism industry exists here. If you’re not doing a day trip, the your best bet is to bring a tent or rv to take advantage of the park’s campgrounds, or book a stay at one of several lodges in the area. Activities in the park are similar to the Smokies, with some great features you can only experience here. Of course, hiking is probably the number one activity, with dozens of trails leading to spectacular overlooks, cliffs, waterfalls, and amazing geological features such as the Twin Arches. These giant archways are the largest in the east, with South Arch topping out over one hundred feet high. The Twin Arches Loop Trail is a five mile trek which also leads to the park’s only retreat, known as Charit Creek Lodge. Located near its namesake, the lodge has several private cabins as well as a main building, along with a fantastic dining hall. Nights fill up fast, so it’s best to book well ahead of time. Several other popular hiking trails include the Honey Creek Loop Trail and John Muir Trail. The first route is possibly one of the most challenging in the park, as it ascends a series of ladders and stairs to access one of the few box canyons in the area. Waterfalls, cliffs, and rock houses galore can be found along the way, which are sure to peak anyone’s interest and provide ample opportunities to catch your breath. The John Muir Trail, which starts along the main park road at the main river crossing known as Leatherwood Ford, climbs to what many agree is the best overlook in the entire park. Angel Falls lies far below, the sound of the whitewater rapids echoing off the gorge’s sandstone walls. Many days you may see rafting parties trying their endurance to battle through the swift waters, which max out at class IV according to the National Park Service. Whitewater rafting is a huge draw throughout the area, and the Big South Fork features some of the best in the region. Multiple outfitters launch daily excursions and welcome first timers. Those who wish to strike out on their own may also do so, but should exercise caution. Adrenaline junkies

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East Rim Overlook offers a spectacular first view of the park for those just arriving from the east and is easily accessible from the main entrance along Leatherwood Road.

also descend on the park to test their strength and wits by climbing and rappelling on the many geologic features. Hundreds of routes await, just remember to exercise care, as the park prohibits any actions which may harm or deface the rock. Mountain biking and horseback riding are also popular pastimes for active individuals who wish to see more of the park. For those who prefer a more relaxing visit, you may search for wildflowers and go birding throughout some of the fields and farm sites located in the park. Picnic sites can be found at over ten locations, including the Bandy Creek Campground, which features one hundred eighty-one campsites for tents and RVs. You can even enjoy a scenic railway excursion along the Big South Fork Scenic Railway which runs from Stearns, Kentucky to the park’s Blue Heron historic site. There is so much more to see, not only within the park, but at nearby areas such as Tennessee’s Pickett State Park and State Forest, that one could spend an entire vacation here and never have a dull moment! Admission to the park is free. More info can be found at www. nps.gov/biso. Directions: From Knoxville, TN, drive north on I-275 and I-75 37.2 miles and take exit 141 in Caryville. Turn left onto TN63, and then turn left onto TN-297. Stay on TN-297 through Oneida, TN and eventually you will reach the eastern park boundary at the main park road. The main visitor center lies along Bandy Creek Road several miles within the park.

A heart touching letter from a reader... earest Jason and Daniel,

I hope my letter to you finds you both with health and happiness. Please allow me to introduce myself; I am Mrs. Thelma Rose Watson and I must say that I am a very big fan of your articles in The Loafer. I have been a passionate reader of The Loafer for the past 10 years and I can’t tell you how excited I was the first time I read your “Appalachian Wanderers” article. My William and I were once as the two of you are; young and full of adventures. The first time I was able to see the love of my life was in 1955 at the county fair. I was only 16 and he was just 18 and our adventures started that day and spanned the next 56 years before I lost my dear William. Your weekly articles, or stories to me, bring such excitement because they bring back so many memories. Reading your stories has made me start to recount the many trips and adventures that my William and I took. There are so many over the years that I could never remember them all, but I have my favorites that stand out in my mind and heart. I only wish that I would have recorded (you may not even know that is what you are doing) our adventures like you two are so that I would have written record to share with other generations. Unfortunately my age and health doesn’t allow me to climb the mountains, hike the trails or travel the miles between states like I used to, but I want you to know that I live vicariously through your stories week after week. I have been meaning to send you gentlemen a note for a couple weeks now, but after see-

ing the new story and picture, I knew today was the day to write to you. You see, this new story and picture caused a flood of memories to come back to me. One thing that my William and I loved to do, was walk to waterfalls. I would say at our last count, we had visited more than 200 waterfalls around the world. When I looked at your picture this week, it made my eyes cry and my heart smile for this was the last waterfall that my William and I were able to make it to after moving to the great state of Tennessee in 2003. One final goal that we had together was to try and see all the waterfalls of this wonderful state. I’m sad to say that we never completed that goal, but we did make it to this wonderful waterfall in the summer of 2004. It is truly a marvel of Mother Nature that all should see. Thank you so much for deciding to visit this location and share your experience with your readers, because even when you think it is only a story you are writing, you are bringing back memories for some of us and helping others to decide where to create new ones. I eagerly await to see where your next journey will take us. I wish you much love and safe travels, Mrs. Thelma Rose Watson & William

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baum . . .

continued from page 35

companied her father, who was a professor, and their family for an extended period in the states. As an adult, Baum revisited many of those scenes from her childhood with a new friend, a Palestinian woman who helped her see her experiences from a different point of view. “Storytelling is the intersection of my work as a performance artist, educator, and diversity specialist,” Baum says. “For me, story is both performance art and a tool for change.” Another huge influence in Baum’s work has been her background in theater, which she has studied in both Israel and the U.S. “I’d describe my style as ‘performance storytelling,’” she says. “It borrows from principles of traditional storytelling as well as using tools from theater, mixing of narration and characterization to evoke the story in the audiences’ imaginations.” Ticketholders for all performances can present their ticket stubs for a 10 percent discount on same-day dining at JJ’s Eatery and Ice Cream or Main Street Café, two popular eateries in Jonesborough. The latest performer in ISC’s renowned Storytelling Live! series, Baum will be followed by another storyteller each week through the month of October. Information about all performers, as well as a detailed schedule for 2016, is available at www.storytellingcenter.net. The premier sponsor of Storytelling Live! is the Mountain States’ Heart & Soul program. Media sponsors include News 5-WCYB, FOX Tri-Cities, Tri-Cities CW, Johnson City Press, Kingsport Times-News, Herald & Tribune, Cumulus Media, The Laurel of Asheville, Plough to Pantry and Foster Signs. Additional funding comes from the National Endowment for the Arts, the Tennessee Arts Commission, the East Tennessee Foundation, Eastman Credit Union, the Mooneyhan Family Foundation, the Niswonger Foundation, and MassengillDeFriece Foundation, Inc. The International Storytelling Center is open 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., Monday through Saturday. For more information about Storytelling Live! or to make a group reservation, call (800) 952-8392 ext. 222 or (423) 913-1276.

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pets of the week

Zack is a 4 year old hound mix. He is neutered and up to date on all vaccines. This handsome and lively boy loves to play!

Cali is a 5 year old collie mix, spayed and up to date on all vaccines. She is one of the sweetest dogs! Take her home today! 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 12pm3pm and Sun 2pm-4pm. Website is www.bridgehomerescue@gmail. com or like them on Facebook: www.Facebook.com/bridgehome theloaferonline.com | July 26, 2016 | 39

things to do

Do Something BIG Bringing Hope Through Mentoring: Big Brothers Big Sisters

Have you ever wondered how you can do something BIG to make a difference in the life of a child in need? Sometimes just having someone to talk with can turn a path of hopelessness into one of survival. That’s one of the compelling premises behind the work of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Tri-Cities. Spending 2 to 4 hours a month with an atrisk youth can help them improve in school, their behavior and their self-esteem. Our local Big Brothers Big Sisters office is part of one of the oldest and largest youth mentoring organizations in the United States. It’s a system that has been proven to work and transforms the lives of children who might not otherwise ever get the support they need to grow and successfully meet

life’s challenges. Child-volunteer matches are made based on in-depth and comprehensive interviewing with parents, children and potential volunteers. Stringent safeguards are in place to assure that all parties are safe. Volunteer and parent engagement and training also play a big role. Anyone wanting to find out more about Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Tri-Cities should contact the office by calling 423-247-3240, or visiting TennesseeBig.org.3, 2016. Free. Info: www.folkheritage. org or (828)258-6101 x345.

Still Life Painting Class, Taught by Donna Bird

Wednesdays 6-8pm July 13 - August 31 $25 per session This class will cover basics of still life painting in this casual once a week “drop in” class. Discover the beauty of paint-

ing still life with oil or acrylics as we work through the elements of a painting including: studies in basic drawing, direction of light, value, mixing color, design and proportion. There is a lot to learn! Donna Bird moved to East Tennessee in 2008 and has established herself firmly in the arts community. As the manager of Art in the Heart Gallery she holds a BFA in Graphic Design and has continued to pursue her love of painting through classes and workshops with local and nationally known artists Art in the Heart Gallery 246 Broad Street Kingsport, TN 423-480-9702 www.EngageKingsport.com

Xtreme Roan Adventures

The Friends of Roan Mountain are sponsoring a kid’s outdoor nature day called the Xtreme Roan Adventures on Saturday – July 30 – at Roan Mountain State Park It is going to be a great out-

door exploration day for kids. There are twenty-one outdoor Adventures and Activities for children ages 3 to 15 years of age. Parents are required to accompany their children on these Adventures. The Adventures start at 9:00 a.m. and go until mid afternoon. You can pre-register by going to Xtreme Roan Adventures .org or you can register onSaturday (July 30) at the Roan Mountain State Park amphitheater. For complete schedule and registration information visit the website: XtremeRoanAdventures.org Or call Ken at (423) 538-3419

Computer Classes @ the Jonesborough Library 10:00 – 11:00 am

The Jonesborough Library will offer a series of computer classes in August: Aug. 5 Introduction to Mobile Devices Aug. 12 Android Basics Aug. 19 iPad & iPhone Basics Aug. 26 Introduction to Social Media These classes are free and open to the public. Space is limited and registration is required. To register, please call the Jonesborough library at 753-1800.

MECC Offers Concealed Weapons Class

Mountain Empire Community College will offer a Concealed Weapons Permit course

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Saturday, August 6 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The cost for the course is $100. Pre-registration is required. This class satisfies the requirements for a concealed weapons permit and will cover legal guidelines, safety issues, and hands-on instruction on the firing range. Early registration is recommended as this class has limited spots available. To register go to www. mecc.edu/workforce and complete the Non-Credit Registration form or contact Lori Dingus at 276.523.2400 Ext. 372 or ldingus@mecc.edu.

Beekeeping Workshop at Marble Springs

Marble Springs State Historic Site will be hosting a Beekeeping workshop on Saturday, August 6 th , 2016. The workshop will begin at 11am at the pavilion. The workshop will be run by local beekeeper, Lynda Rizzardi, president of the Knox County Beekeepers, and will cover the basics on how to start keeping your own strong and healthy bees. Rizzardi will bring equipment to show guests what they will need and how to use it. No bees will actually be present. Details are subject to change. Participation in this event is $20. For more information or to register for this event please email info@marblesprings.net, call (865) 573-5508, or visit our website www.marblesrprings. net. This event will take place at the Marble Springs State Historic Site: 1220 West Governor John Sevier Highway Knoxville, TN, 37920

PLACING A CLASSIFED LINE AD:

Go to: www.theloaferonline.com, create an account, and enter your classified. Call 423282-1907 or email: classifieds@theloaferonline.com if you have any questions.

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Wheel-Gun Showdown Pt. 2 Ruger LCR

ast week we looked at the Smith & Wesson Airweight this week we look at its number one competitor, the Ruger LCR also chambered in .38 Special + P. Now you might be thinking that they’re both .38’s what’s the big deal? Well that’s like saying a Mustang and a Camaro are both sports cars. As you can imagine, while there are similarities there are also stark differences. Both the S&W Airweight and Ruger LCR are top of the line and made in America, so I don’t need to reiterate either gun’s quality, but let’s take a look at some of the specs for the LCR. Like the Airweight the LCR features a high-grade aluminum frame which contributes to its light weight and ease of carry, weighing in at in at only 13.5 oz. However one advantage the LCR has over the Airweight is that its frame, and barrel are coated with a patented synergistic hard coat. This provides maximum corrosion resistance, as well as a desirable matte finish. Many of the features are consistent among revolvers of its kind and may sound familiar. It has a 5 round capacity, and 1.87 inch barrel. One unique feature of the LCR is that it comes from the factory with a Hogue Tamer Monogrip. Now for my readers who haven’t done a lot of revolver shooting the recoil is a bit heavier that with a semi-auto. This is a result of all the energy from the chemical reaction being used to expel the bullet from the barrel, whereas with a semi-auto some of the energy is used to actuate the action. Needless to say the right grip goes a long way with a revolver, and many shooters have to go out and buy a Hogue grip. Possibly the most innovative feature of the LCR is the push-button cylinder release. As I’m sure you know most revolvers have a sliding release, this feature makes the LCR more popular with shooters who are used to a push-button mag release on their semi-autos. This gun is also a favorite among Law Enforcement professionals as a backup due to its light weight. However it is important to note the price of the LCR is over $100 higher than the Airweight coming in with an MSRP of $579.00. That being said the LCR boasts features the Airweight simply doesn’t. At the end of the day it’s a preference call, both are reliable and can be trusted when you need them. If you’re in the market for a revolver I’d recommend going to your local gun store and just handling both of them and see which one feels better in your hand. As always I hope you enjoyed this article if you have any questions or concerns please feel free to email me, I look forward to your feedback. Sources: http://www.ruger.com/products/lcr/specSheets/5401.html

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145 Mind, Body & Spirit

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THE BIG STORY

hen I began writing this column twenty-seven years ago, I vowed to avoid commenting directly on political topics. For the most part I have kept that vow, and have only dealt with political topics in a peripheral way. Of course, it is impossible to write about pop culture without mentioning politics, particularly since modern politics and pop culture are practically indistinguishable and oftentimes interchangeable. This development has largely been an illustration of the old admonition, “Be careful what you wish for, because it might come true.” So, here we are smack dab in the middle of two pop culture-laden presidential conventions that will decide the future of our country. But I’m sure you’re getting pretty tired of news about this stuff. So, let’s turn our attention away from Cleveland, Philadelphia, and Washington and focus on something really important. Yes, I’m talking about the much-publicized and ever-present feud between Taylor Swift and Kanye West—which by default involves none other than Kim Kardashian, the reigning queen of American pop culture. Like the current presidential contest, this much-ballyhooed threesome challenges our powers of comprehension and is truly a moving target. By the time you read this, the story will have undoubtedly undergone untold numbers of convolutions and iterations. I don’t pretend to understand what’s going on here, and wish, like I’ve done so many times before, that someone would publish a magazine entitled “Who Cares?” or “So What?” The world cries out for publications like these to provide in-depth coverage of earth-shattering events like SwiftWest. In my quest to understand the dynamics of what’s going on here, I turned to a valuable little piece written by Emma Dibdin in the July 18 online edition of “Cosmopolitan,” the source of all things that make you want to cease all brain activity. In her enlightening article, “A timeline of Taylor Swift and Kanye West’s feud,” Dibdin presents us with a handy history of this monumental series of events, beginning with the infamous MTV Video Music Awards moment on September 13, 2009 when Mr. West interrupted Ms. Swift’s acceptance speech by reminding her that she was not nearly as significant as Beyonce. This Big Bang moment prompted President Obama to call West “a jackass,” and generated way too many social media posts, blogs, and Tweets (at this point, the Twitterverse was celebrating its third birthday). We next move on to September 4, 2010, when Kanye used Twitter to offer his apologies to Taylor. In his Tweet he expressed his gratitude to Twitter co-founders Biz Stone and Evan Williams for the invention that gave him another platform on which to promote his grandiose ego. In his Tweet, West revealed he had written a song just for Taylor. Things move fast in the Twitterverse, and on September 12, Swift revealed she had written a song for Kanye. After a nearly six-year period (an eternity in the world of pop culture) in which

West and Swift got along pretty well and even announced plans for musical collaborations, there appeared “Famous,” Kanye’s song that announced that he and Swift might have intimate relations because he made that (insert the B-word) famous. Ever since that day—this past February 11—the feud has been on, and perfectly choreographed to coincide with the feud between Trump and Clinton. Sounds like parallel universes, doesn’t it? In any event, the feud has escalated, bringing Kardashian into the fracus, ever since Taylor won a Grammy for her edgy and quite impressive album, 1989. After all this history (and I’ve only mentioned the highlights, or lowlights if you wish), we have arrived to last week, when Kardashian revealed a “secret” recording of a phone conversation between Swift and West. And all this is occurring amid Swift’s much-publicized change of boyfriends. Way too much drama for me. And this doesn’t include allegations that someone (guess who) has been tampering with Swift’s Wikipedia entry. Imagine that. During all this head-spinning and braincell-destroying activity, I have found comfort consulting three of my favorite books that offer “back in the day” perspectives on the evolution of the culture of celebrity in America. First, is Daniel Boorstin’s nowclassic 1962 book THE IMAGE: A GUIDE TO PSEUDO-EVENTS IN AMERICA that gave us a guide to the bewildering world of media politics that emerged in the wake of World War II. His much-quoted observation that “A celebrity is a person who is well-known for their well-knowness,” describes Kim Kardashian, et. al. very well (and she was eighteen years away from being born when Boorstin’s book was published). Next, you should consult Neil Postman’s prescient AMUSING OURSELVES TO DEATH: PUBLIC DISCOURSE IN THE AGE OF SHOW BUSINESS. Originally published in 1985, Postman’s book focuses on the growing power of television to shape our perceptions of reality and to reduce nearly every issue, including politics, to the level of entertainment. The perfect follow-up to Boorstin and Postman’s books is Neal Gabler’s 1998 expose, LIFE THE MOVIE: HOW ENTERTAINMENT CONQUERED REALITY, which analyzes a wide diversity of events that show how life has more and more come to resemble a movie—or, in more recent terms, a reality TV show. Neither of these books makes a case that pop culture is a bad thing. Rather, they advocate us taking a very critical view of pop culture so that our enjoyment is tempered by reflective thinking. I encourage you add these volumes to your bookshelf. Before my brain explodes under the stress of all this Swift-West-Kardashian nonsense, I will bid you a fond farewell until next week. In the meantime, I hope you will find some drama to immerse yourself in. You shouldn’t have to look very far. theloaferonline.com | July 26, 2016 | 43

44 | July 26, 2016 | theloaferonline.com