The Loafer July 4th by The Loafer

theloaferonline.com | July 4, 2017

Liberty! on the cover

Volume 31 • Issue #31 Publisher Luci Tate

39th Season

Editor Graphic Arts Director Don Sprinkle Cover Design Bill May Advertising Dave Carter Patti Barr Paul Kavanaugh Brad Parris Janie Jarvis Renee Taylor

Distribution Jerry Hanger Teresa Hanger Published by Pulse Publishing, LLC., P.O. Box 3238, Johnson City, TN 37602 Phone: 423/283-4324 FAX - 423/283-4369 www.theloaferonline.com info@theloaferonline.com e-mail: editorial@theloaferonline.com adcopy@theloaferonline.com All advertisements are accepted and published by the publisher upon the representation that the agency and/ or advertiser is authorized to publish the entire contents and subject matter thereof. The agency and/or advertiser will indemnify and save the publisher harmless from any lossof expense resulting from claims or suits based upon contents of any advertisement, including claims or suits for defamation, libel, right of privacy, plagiarism, and copyright infringement.

Founder: Bill Williams Let’s Get Social!

18 Stargazer NASA Watches Private Rockets Launch 19 Skies This Week 20 Batteries Not Included Fireworks on the Lake 22 Pop Life Transformers: The Last Knight 24 Appalachian Wanderers Gregory Bald 26 The Casual Word Prodigal Son 28 Puzzle Page 31 Kelly’s Place Empathetic Pet Drones And Retro Typewriters (With Bluetooth)

your week’s line-up

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

columns & reviews

Office Coordinator Amanda Lane

4 6 7 9 9 10 11 12 13 13 14 15 16 27 29 30

Liberty! The Saga of Sycamore Shoals Summer Train Excursion Reagan Boggs Plays Northeast State The Raleigh Ringers in Concert Safari Greg performs at Library Spoken Word Open Mic Jigsaw Jane @ Holston River Brewing Co. Cinderella Goes To The Ball Alzheimer's Fundraiser Cookout The Coteries @ Acoustic Coffeehouse Holiday Contra Dance @ Serenity Knoll Farm The FL3TCH3R Exhibit Seeks Entries Spotlight Book and CD Release Party Pets Of The Week Things To Do

theloaferonline.com | July 4, 2017

39th season

theloaferonline.com | July 4, 2017

Opens July 13th

ationally significant events that helped to shape the future of our nation before, during, and after the American Revolution are presented in an engaging, exciting, and entertaining fashion. The Watauga Association, formed in 1772, was widely recognized as the first continental government that was “free and independent” of the British Crown. This designation was recognized by no less than President Theodore Roosevelt. It was designed by leaders to provide for law and order and the right of every free man to vote. Later, the area was annexed by North Carolina and became known as the Washington District, named in honor of General George Washington, who was leading the fight for American Independence at the time. In 1775, The Transylvania Purchase took place at the Watauga “Old Fields” where Judge Richard Henderson and other land speculators purchased 20 million acres of land from the Cherokee. This negotiation sparked a series of Cherokee attacks on the pioneers of the Watauga and surrounding settlements a year later. Liberty! is set in front of the full-scale replica of Fort Watauga, which was used to defend the settlement against attacks from a faction of the Cherokee, led by Chief Dragging Canoe, who opposed the sale. Ultimately, the settlement was successful in staving off the attack and siege of the fort. Sycamore Shoals also served as the gathering place for the Overmountain Men, who were an essential part of a broader militia that defeated Major Patrick Ferguson and his British force at the Battle of Kings Mountain in 1780. That event is often noted as a major turning point for the American Revolution. Liberty! tells the stories of these important days of American history as well as demonstrating the life of pioneers in a frontier settlement. Moreover, it gives faces to the names we see on many of our street signs and other local area designations. For example, we meet John Sevier, who went on to become the first Governor of Tennessee. We are also introduced to John Carter, and his son Landon, both of whom are reflected in the full name of the Carter Mansion, the oldest frame house in the state. It’s preserved by the Park and the associated Friends of Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park.

The cast of Liberty! the Saga of Sycamore Shoals invites you to join them for their 39th year of presenting the Official Outdoor Drama of the State of Tennessee. Each year, the Fort Watauga amphitheater comes to life with the sights and sounds of the late 18th century on the colonial frontier. The amazing strength and skills of the local pioneer women are far from neglected in the drama. Another character is Mary Patton, who learned the art of manufacturing gun powder from her father. Her assistance was crucial in the defense of the settlement during the siege. Moreover, she supplied the Overmountain Men with a minimum of 500 pounds of gunpowder for their foray into North Carolina. We also encounter Catherine “Bonnie Kate” Sherrill, a lively lass who was caught outside the fort during the siege attack, and was rescued by Sevier, whom she later married. While Tiptonville was the original name of Elizabethton, as part of the State of Franklin, it was later renamed for Landon's wife, Elizabeth MacLin Carter, who also appears in the drama. This is only a partial list of fascinating local contributors to regional and national history, and putting the play on is quite an undertaking. It features professional lighting and sound, a well-maintained amphitheater, as well as an all-volunteer cast of nearly 100 local actors in speaking and extra roles.

irst Night tickets to the opening show on Thursday, July 13th are only $9 for adults and seniors. This year, our 1st Responders Night is celebrated on opening night. All 1st Responders and a guest will be admitted for Free on Thursday, July 13th. Veterans Night is on Thursday, July 20th, where Veterans are formally thanked for their service during the show, and also with free admission for them and a guest. You are also invited to visit and ‘like’ their Facebook pages at: www.facebook.com/LibertyTheSaga/ www.facebook.com/FriendsOfSycamoreShoalsStateHistoricArea/ www.facebook.com/sycamoreshoals

ikewise, everyone is encouraged to become a member of the Friends of Sycamore Shoals group to help support the Liberty drama, as well as a host of other educational park activities that take place throughout the year. Don’t be one of the many who say “I’ve heard about it, but never gone.” And, if you’ve seen it, you’re most welcome to come again. This year we present a new script that is sure to keep you on the edge of your seats! Support your local history educators and preservationists; come learn about our history in a fun and entertaining context, and spread the word. We’ll see you at the Old Fields!

Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park 1651 W. Elk Avenue. Elizabethton, TN 37643 423-543-5808

theloaferonline.com | July 4, 2017

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iberty runs Thursdays-Saturdays, July 13 - 15, 20 – 22, and 27 - 29, 2017 in the Fort Watauga Amphitheater at Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park in Elizabethton, TN (use 1651 West Elk Avenue for GPS purposes). And, all of this is provided to local residents and area visitors at a most reasonable price. General admission tickets range from Free for Children 5 and under; to $6.00 for Students 6 to 17 years; $11.00 for Seniors 55 and up; and $14.00 for Adults. Members of Friends of Sycamore Shoals may attend the drama any night for a reduced adult/senior admission price of $7.00. Tickets can also be purchased online at www.TheLibertyDrama.com or at the door.

Excursion

theloaferonline.com | July 4, 2017

Summer Train

If you’re experiencing the Summer Doldrums, we have the cure for you – getting out of the house and taking a great train ride! Escape the Dog Days of Summer with a cool, refreshing and scenic train trip through the mountains of the Southern Appalachian region.

n Saturday, August 12th, 2017, the Watauga Valley Railroad Historical Society & Museum will sponsor its “Summer 2017 Excursion” – a train ride on the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad through the majestic Smoky Mountains and the beautiful countryside of Western North Carolina. The train follows the route of the former Southern Railway’s Murphy Branch line, established in 1891, with its five percent grade, many bridges, and the beautiful whitewater Nantahala Gorge. Much of the route hugs the banks of the Little Tennessee and Nantahala Rivers and crosses Fontana Lake Trestle, standing 100 feet above the lake and spanning 780 feet. After crossing the lake, the train will enter the breathtaking Nantahala Gorge – a natural wonder. Passengers can choose to ride in comfort in Coach Class, Crown Class or First Class. Ticket prices for adult Coach Class seats are $83

and $69 for children (2 to 12 years). Adult Crown Class seats are $96 and $79 for children (2 to 12 years). First Class seats $152 for adults over 21. The trip will begin in the parking lot of the Liberty Bell Middle School in Johnson City, TN, where passengers will board a motor coach departing 9:15 a.m. We will also pick up passengers in the Asheville area at the Weaverville, NC Wal Mart Super Center , 25 Northridge Commons Parkway, Weaverville, NC at Exit 19 off of Interstate 26 at 10.00 am. Upon arriving Bryson City, NC, passengers will have time to shop, snack, and visit the Smoky Mountain Train Museum before boarding the excursion train at 1:45 p.m. for the 4.5 - hour roundtrip to the Nantahala Gorge and return. There will be a layover at the Gorge for sightseeing. Expected arrival back in Weaverville at 7:30 p.m and to Johnson City at 8:30 p.m. To order tickets (and lunch for Coach and Crown

Classes, if desired), send your check or money order along with the number of tickets, the class of car you choose and lunch choices to Summer 2017 Excursions, Watauga Valley RHS&M, P. O. Box 432, Johnson City, TN,37605-0432. A printable ticket / lunch order form is available by going to our web site at www.wataugavalleynrhs.org and clicking on the “Excursions” link. Please specify if you will accept an alternate class of service if your choice is sold out; you will be refunded the difference. Money will be refunded if you do not wish an alternate service. For questions about the trip, visit our web site at www.wataugavalleynrhs .org; phone (423) 7535797; email wataugavalley@embarqmail.com; or write us at Watauga Valley RHS&M, P. O. Box 432, Johnson City, TN 37605-0432. For information visit: www.wataugavalleynrhs. org or phone 423-753-5797.

theloaferonline.com | July 4, 2017

Reagan Boggs Plays Northeast State at Blountville

As a daughter of the Coalfields and “The Crooked Road,” singersongwriter Reagan Boggs continues to grow her reputation as one of Americana music’s most popular and influential artists

ortheast State proudly welcomes Boggs to perform at the College’s “Hot Nights, Cool Music” summer concert series on July 7 at 7:00 p.m. in the Wellmont Regional Center for the Performing Arts on the College’s Blountville campus. Admission is free and open to the public. Boggs grew up in the tiny Southern Appalachian town of Pound, Va. Her family’s home was tucked away in a “holler” outside the small mining community. At times, she can be as pure as such mountain songbirds as Patty Loveless or as edgy as such artists as Shelby Lynne or Matraca Berg. But, all throughout her latest album, Empty Glasses, she manages to simply be Reagan Boggs – and that’s pretty special, as you will hear. The new album was released last year as the follow-up to her Quicksand disc and won the attention in her home base, as well as on the Americana Music Association chart. She feels that the music on Empty Glasses reflects her diverse musical stylings. “I had gotten a review in, and one of the lines said that I transcend genres. It’s hard when people ask me – and kind of to my detriment in a way – because when people ask me what kind of music I do, I draw a blank – because I have such a hard time with that,” says Boggs. “It’s very country-based, with some other influences running through it. I went through so many phases of my life. I was a Blues singer, a Bluegrass singer, I sang Gospel, and was a Rock-and-Roller, too. I just love music….of all kinds.” She lists such artists as Jason Isbell, Patty Loveless, Ryan Adams and Patty Griffin among her influences. She related that growing up in an area where there was little to do, and no cable, music was king – and that’s where she gained her biggest inspiration. “I love anything that makes me feel something,” says Boggs. “It doesn’t really have to be a specific genre.” Lee Zimmerman of the roots music journal No Depression compared Boggs style as “… the same wellspring of heartfelt emotion, bittersweet reflection and bleak back porch desire that birthed great singers like Loretta Lynn, Kitty Wells, Dolly Parton, and Emmylou Harris. Her voice is filtered through a mix of hard wrought emotion and soothing sensitivity, the kind that breeds great balladry and stirs the senses simultaneously.” Boggs is a two-time Mountain Stage performer on National Public Radio and will be featured this summer on the PBS broadcast of “Song of the Mountains.” She also uses her vocal talents to narrate audio books. Check out her titles on Audible.com and iTunes. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. For more information, visit www.NortheastState.edu or contact jpkelly@NortheastState.edu.

theloaferonline.com | July 4, 2017

Performs At Library

unsey Memorial United Methodist Church is proud to host and present The Raleigh Ringers in concert. The concert will be held at Munsey on Saturday, July 8 at 7:00 PM. Munsey is located at 201 South Roan Street, Johnson City. The Raleigh Ringers is an internationally acclaimed concert handbell choir based in Raleigh, North Carolina. Since its founding in 1990, The Raleigh Ringers has been dazzling audiences with unique interpretations of sacred, secular, and popular music, including famous rock 'n' roll tunes arranged just for handbells. Munsey will be the first stop on their 2017 summer tour. Concert admission will be $15 in advance, or $20 at the door. Children age 5 and younger will be admitted for free. Tickets can be purchased in advance at http://www.munsey.org/raleighringers, by calling Munsey at (423) 461-8070, or by visiting Munsey's Connection Point. For further information, please call Munsey at (423) 461-8070, or visit http://rr.org/ , https://www.facebook.com/munseychurch/ , or http://www.munsey.org/raleigh-ringers .

SAFARI GREG

The Raleigh Ringers In Concert

he Johnson City Public Library 9 is pleased to host one of the South’s leading children’s entertainers, Greg Carter, on Thursday, July 6 at 11:00 a.m. as part of the “Build a Better World” Summer Reading Program. School age children and their families will enjoy a wacky unforgettable adventure that includes wild animals, cool magic, hilarious comedy, and tons of fun in his show. Safari Greg has performed in 42 states and two foreign countries in the past ten years with over 4000 shows. Voted six times Nashville’s Best Children’s Entertainer and two times awarded the Governor’s Award of Excellence in Educational Programs, Greg Carter will entertain and amaze his audiences in the Jones Meeting Room. The Summer Reading Program will continue through July 20. Children are encouraged to participate in the Summer Reading Program and register at the library or online at www.jcpl. net. For more information about this free program or other Youth Services programs, please call 423-434-4458.

SpokenWordOPENMIC!

David Joe Miller presents

theloaferonline.com | July 4, 2017

Storyteller, David Joe Miller presents his every popular Spoken Word OPEN MIC! on Wednesday July 5th, 7pm at the McKinney Center in Jonesborough, TN

poken Word OPEN MIC! is an opportunity for fledging storytellers and poets to go on stage, in front of a supportive and enthusiastic audience, and present up to ten minutes of their work. There is no theme, no competition and no censor. The only rules are, keep your stage time to ten minutes or less and keep your clothes on. Sign up begins at 6:30pm for the 7pm show. There will be twelve, ten minute slots available and the show is normally over by 8:45pm. Poetry and storytelling are welcome. Read from the page or recite/ tell from memory, it's the artists chose. This is a great space to try out new material on our live audience, hone your public speaking skills or just tell that story you've always wanted to tell. The show takes place is Classroom 2 of the McKinney Arts Center at 103 Franklin Avenue in Jonesborough. The entrance to the center is at the corner of East Main Street and Franklin Avenue. This months Spoken Word OPEN MIC! will be hosted by Walters State Community College Professor and storyteller, Marci Nimick along with ETSU storytelling program participant, Lee Lindsey. Both of these hosts are seasoned comedic storytellers so the evening should be filled with humor and lots of laughter. Contact David Joe Miller for more information at davidjoetells@yahoo.com.

theloaferonline.com | July 4, 2017

Jigsaw Jane A popular bandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s resurgence

Northeast Tennessee and Southwest Virginia have always had a good number of local bands. They play every genre of music you can imagine, and then some.

ll bands have their ups and downs, and change personnel over the years. One such local band is Jigsaw Jane, who is performing Friday night at Holston River Brewing Company in Bristol. Jigsaw Jane started a couple years ago, and have had great musicians. They have had more than one lead singer for various reasons, and now that Chris Massie has joined them to sing lead and play some rhythm guitar, they are clearly on the ascendancy. In addition to Chris, band members include Todd Long on rhythm guitar and vocals, David Bailey on lead guitar, Michael Hash on bass and vocals and Waylon Lewis on the drums. Chris tells us that they are a band of brothers, meshing well together and taking full advantage of the very talented musicians that is their make-up. They have done four gigs so far with Chris singing lead, and are proud to say that their Facebook following has almost doubled in the last week or so. Playing a wide variety of music (something for everyone they say) they touch on classic 80s rock, old and new Country and are now dabbling in some pop and dance tunes. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll hear it all over the course of one of their shows, typically 3 or 4 sets. They really like interacting with the crowd, getting people up to dance and clap and just generally have a grand old time. Come on out to Holston River Brewing Company on Friday and see - and hear - for yourself. I guarantee you will not be disappointed.

Goes To The Ball

CINDERELLA theloaferonline.com | July 4, 2017

“

The classic tale of love, adventure and magic that has wowed audiences for decades is gracing Barter Stage II this summer.

he Barter Players are bringing “Cinderella,” originally written by the Brothers Grimm, to an all-new ball that runs through July 15. Join Zoe Velling, Brandy Drzymkowski, Garret Housten and the rest of the Barter Players as they present the story of Cinderella, a girl doomed to act as a slave to her evil stepsisters and wicked stepmother until a ball and a fairy godmother present her with a chance at a new life and love. Special thanks to our sponsor, Pepsi Beverages Company,

for making “Cinderalla” possible at Barter Theatre. The Barter Players are a group of professional artists who perform world-class theatre for young audiences. They present high-energy original productions that capture the imagination of today’s youth while providing the best in classic literature and beloved story adaptations. The Barter Players perform with a unique combination of education and entertainment, plus the commitment to bring world-class theatre to young people of all ages and backgrounds. The Barter Players perform at Barter Theatre in Abingdon each April through December and go on tour during January, February, and March, performing at schools all over the Eastern seaboard. Barter Theatre, the nation’s longest running professional theatre, is located in Abingdon, Virginia. The theatre opened in 1933 during the Great Depression. Founder Robert Porterfield offered patrons admission to the theatre by bartering food and livestock. Barter Theatre was designated as the state theatre of Virginia in 1946. It exists today as one of the last year-round professional resident repertory theaters remaining in the United States. Barter Theatre is funded in part by The Virginia Commission for the Arts and The National Endowment for the Arts.

Never haved a dull night at home. Read The Loafer and get out to support local talent/events" Amy S.

njoy a summer-style cookout prepared by the Jonesborough Firefighters, live music which features the Novelty Band, door prizes and cornhole. It will be a day to support a good cause while also enjoying great food and live music. “We host a monthly support group and we want to bring awareness to the disease and the support in the area.” Mary Sanger, Director of the Jonesborough Senior Center said. “All the proceeds go directly to Alzheimer’s TN and stay in this area to olk Rock Band, The Coteries, will be playing help people suffering from this disease.” at The Acoustic Coffeehouse on Thursday, The Fundraiser will be held on Thursday July 6th at noon at the July 6th at 8 PM. The Colorado based Jonesborough Senior Center, which is located at 307 East Main Street. band brings you original music steeped Admission is free, but donations are accepted. For more information in their travels on the back roads of the American call 423.753.4781. countryside and a few songs to sing along to for one high-energy show! In the summer of 2014 the trio quit their day jobs, bought a VW Bus, and took off on an 11,000 mile journey across North America. Aside for some freezing August nights in Wyoming it was the best decision of their lives. With their inaugural year

theloaferonline.com | March 28, 2017

at The Acoustic Coffeehouse Thursday, July 6th 8 PM acousticcoffeehouse.net 415 W. Walnut St. – Johnson City

The Jonesborough Senior Center will be hosting, Alzheimer’s Tennessee Fundraiser Cookout on Thursday July 6th at noon.

The Coteries

Alzheimer’s Tennessee Fundraiser Cookout

and over 200 shows across 30 states behind they’re continuing their momentum into 2017. With a recent endorsement from GoWesty (Gregory Alan Isakov) as traveling ambassadors, they’ve gone from small farmer’s markets to major festivals opening from Sierra Hull and The Black Lillies and sharing the stage with artists Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros, Parsonsfield, and The Fray. For more information on The Coteries head to: www.TheCoteries.com or follow them on www. facebook.com/coteriesband.

theloaferonline.com | July 4, 2017

ew this year is an audio/sound category, says Barbara Dyer, cofounder and co-director of the annual visual art exhibit. Other categories include ceramics, digital, fiber, glass, graphic design, jewelry/metals, mixed media (2D), mixed media (3D), painting, performance/installation (via video), photography, printmaking, sculpture, video/film and other. A non-refundable fee of $40 is required for submission of up to three entries. Artists may submit entries in excess of three for an additional $10 per artwork/ title. Artists should submit entries online or consult the prospectus, which can be found at http://www.FL3TCH3Rexhibit.com/downloads/prospectus. pdf. The extended deadline, with an additional fee, is Aug. 31, 2017. The exhibit offers four main cash awards – a Best of Show Award; two Awards of Excellence; the Reece Museum Award; and the Sammie L. Nicely Appalachian Artist Award, in memory of Nicely, who was artist-in-residence at Reece Museum in 2014 and 2015 and died in May 2015. Entries for the 2017 FL3TCH3R Exhibit will be selected by illustrator/painter Anita Kunz, a visual artist whose work has made her one of The National Post’s 50 most influential women in Canada and whose magazine covers for

In its fifth year, the FL3TCH3R Exhibit: Social and Politically Engaged Art will be on display at East Tennessee State University’s Reece Museum Oct. 9 to Dec. 15. The directors of the 2017 exhibit have issued their Call for Entries to artists through Aug. 22, 2017. The New Yorker, The New York Times Magazine, Time, Rolling Stone, Sports Illustrated, Vanity Fair and Fortune and jacket covers for more than 50 books have reached readers the world-round. “We are very pleased and excited to announce Anita Kunz as our 2017 juror,” says Barbara Dyer. “She is an internationally renowned artist and illustrator. We believe she will bring a diverse perspective to the selection process and her own work certainly speaks of her interest in and grasp of social and political issues worldwide.” Established in memory of Barbara and Wayne Dyer’s son, Fletcher, a BFA senior at ETSU who passed away in 2009 in a motorcycle accident, the FL3TCH3R international juried exhibit focuses on work with strong social and/or political content. FL3TCH3R Exhibit entries “should reflect current issues that affect contemporary culture and investigate societal and political concerns,” the exhibit website says. In addition to providing an opportunity for socially relevant expression, the FL3TCH3R Exhibit supports the annual Fletcher H. Dyer Memorial Scholarship for an ETSU Art & Design student. Interest has indeed been sparked. In the four years of the exhibit, nearly 1,500 entries have been considered from 17 countries, including the U.S. “Each year, we think the exhibit is the best yet, we find that the following exhibit, is extraordinary in its own right,” Barbara Dyer says. For more information about Fletcher Dyer, visit http://fletcherdyer.com/about. html. For more information about the exhibit and submissions, visit http://www.FL3TCH3Rexhibit.com.

theloaferonline.com | July 4, 2017

2017 FL3TCH3R Exhibit to accept submissions 15 through Aug. 22, keeping alive a legacy of commentary, activism through art

Spotlight

theloaferonline.com | July 4, 2017

- TUESDAY - July 4th -

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 8th -

- FRIDAY - July 7th -

Railway Express Holston River Brewing Company

Nightshift Band Lion’s Club

Southern 76 David Thompson’s Produce

Jigsaw Jane Town of Marion

Reagan Boggs Northeast State Center for the Performing Arts

Live Music Bone Fire Smokehouse

Jerry Pierce & the Nightlife Band Covered Bridge

Jukebox Boys Sonny’s Cafe

Hayden Garber Rio’s Grill & Sports Bar

Turkey Creek Full Moon Jam

The Dusty Travelers Elizabethton Elks Lodge

Joey Nevada Los Amigo’s

Downtown Country Jiggy Ray’s Pizzeria

Corey Hunt Band Bone Fire Smokehouse

Railway Express Laurel Marina

Shooter Band Quaker Steak & Lube

Us, If / MindModes / Doctor Ocular Capone’s Jigsaw Jane Holston River Brewing Company

Jangling Sparrows Jiggy Ray’s Pizzeria

Farmhouse Ghost Studio Brew

Asylum Suite CJ’s Sports Bar

Mike McKamey Jiggy Ray’s Pizzeria

The Monday Movement / Loose Leaves Acoustic Coffeehouse

Rebel Mountain at Country Club Bar & Grill

James Meadows Holston River Brewing Company

Borderline Rush Street

Justin Crowder Band Bears Bar

- WEDNESDAY - July 5th Secret Bleeders / the Cloth Cemetery Flowers / Business Machines The Hideaway Shooter Band Hansonville Music Barn Ryan Ward The Harvest Table Open Mic Jiggy Ray’s Pizzeria Micah Scott Acoustic Coffeehouse

- THURSDAY - July 6th Saul Brooks Band Marker ‘2’ Grille

Railway Express / Retroville / Ali Randolph CJ’s Sports Bar

- SUNDAY - July 9th -

7 Mile Mushroom Bristol Station Brews & Taproom

Edward Mann Sonny’s Cafe

Adam Graybeals Hillbilly Soul Marker ‘2’ Grille

Live Music Bone Fire Smokehouse

Eric Gales Abingdon Market Pavillion

- SATURDAY - July 8th -

Live Music Bone Fire Smokehouse

Violet Bell The Willow Tree Coffeehouse & Music Room

The Coteries / That Virginia Acoustic Coffeehouse

Broke n Busted at Country Club Bar & Grill

Dennis Coffey Art in the Heart Gallery

Hunter Grigg Down Home

Shades of Refinement Quaker Steak & Lube

Sarah Sang Sleepy Owl Brewery

Open Talent Night Bears Bar

Nightshift Band Buffalo Ruritan

- FRIDAY - July 7th -

Borderline Rush Street

Ali Randolph & The Outta Luck Band Marker ‘2’ Grille

134 / Stump Tail Dolly / Decade of Deceit The Hideaway

EC Frazier Our House Restaurant

Ben de la Cour & Jon Chambers Down Home

Sulphur Springs String Dippers Damascus Brewery

Hudson k & Sang Sarah The Willow Tree Coffeehouse & Music Room

Adam Graybeals Hillbilly Soul Sonny’s Cafe

Ivy Road Marker ‘2’ Grille Kalob Griffin Acoustic Coffeehouse

- MONDAY - July 10th Open Mic Acoustic Coffeehouse

- TUESDAY - July 11th Downtown Country Jiggy Ray’s Pizzeria Rhythm Review Holston River Brewing Company

for show time & more details, visit

theloaferonline.com

Bristol Station & Brews 41 Piedmont Avenue Bristol VA 276-608-1220

Model City Tap House 324 E Market St. Kingsport 423-765-0875

Bear's Bar 4460 Highway 421 Bristol TN 423-502-1975

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

Painter Creek Marina 766 Painter Creek Rd Bristol TN 423-878-5755

Bone Fire Smokehouse at the Hardware 260 W Main St Abingdon VA 276-623-0037

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

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

Country Club of Bristol 6045 Old Jonesboro Rd. Bristol 423-652-1700

Sonny’s Marina & Café 109 One Street Gray, TN 423-282-9440

Holiday Inn (Exit 7) 3005 Linden Dr. Bristol VA 276-466-4100

Studio Brew 221 Moore Street Bristol VA 423-360-3258

Boomershine's Pizza 4079 Highway 394 Bluff City 423-575-7500

KARAOKE

Bristol Golf Club 115 Cedar Creek Road Bristol TN 423-797-4411

Holston River Brewing Company 2621 Volunteer Pkwy Bristol TN

TUESDAY Karaoke w/ Tina and West at Dawg House Tavern Karaoke w/ Absolute Entertainment at Logans Karaoke with Top Shelf Entertainment at Boomershine’s Karaoke at Numan’s - Johnson City TN *********************** WEDNESDAY Karaoke w/ Southern Sounds Karaoke at American Legion 8pm Karaoke at CJ’s Sports Bar Karaoke w/ DJ Marquez & Top Shelf Entertainment at Holston River Brewing Company Karaoke w/ DJ Brad & Top Shelf Entertainment at Quaker Steak & Lube Karaoke w/ Absolute Entertainment at Smokey Bones - Johnson City TN Turn the Page Karaoke at VFW Post 2108 - Johnson City TN *********************** THURSDAY Karaoke w/ Absolute Entertainment at Macado’s - Kingsport Karaoke at CJ’s Sports Bar Karaoke w/ Top Shelf Entertainment at Painter Creek Marina Karaoke at Numan’s - Johnson City TN Karaoke w/ Absolute Entertainment at New Beginning’s Karaoke at Jiggy Rays Pizzaria ***********************

FRIDAY Karaoke w/ Southern Sounds Karaoke at Sportsman’s Bar & Grill 9pm Karaoke w/ Absolute Entertainment at Los Amigos Karaoke w/ Shane Rouse at Bear’s Bar Karaoke at Los Amigos - Kingsport Karaoke at Kingsport Moose Lodge Karaoke w/ Reverb Karaoke at The Cottage 8:30 pm Turn the Page Karaoke at VFW Post 2108 - Johnson City TN Karaoke w/ Toddzilla at Sportsmans Pub Karaoke at CJ’s Sports Bar Karaoke w/ DJ Brad & Top Shelf Entertainment at BoBo’s - Damascus VA Karaoke at Elizabethton VFW - Elizabethton TN Karaoke w/ DJ Marquez & Top Shelf Entertainment at Holiday Inn (Exit 7) - Bristol VA Karaoke at Numan’s - Johnson City TN *********************** SATURDAY Karaoke at The Horseshoe Lounge Karaoke w/ Toddzilla at Sportsmans Pub Karaoke at Kingsport Moose Lodge Turn the Page Karaoke at VFW Post 2108 - Johnson City TN Karaoke w/ Absolute Entertainment at Macado’s - Kingsport Karaoke at Numan’s - Johnson City TN ***********************

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SPOTLIGHT DIRECTORY

Acoustic Coffeehouse 415 W Walnut St. Johnson City 423-434-9872

theloaferonline.com | July 4, 2017

NASA Watches Private Firms Rocket From Their Launch Pads

NASA announced a new astronaut group of eight hopeful space fliers, but they are all dressed up with no place to go. That’s because this week marks the sixth year that America has been without its own spaceship, thanks to U.S. Congressional budget cuts and Presidential Administrations vacillating over the direction of the now meager U.S. space program that once had the world’s eyes putting NASA center stage.

T Stargazer

By Mark Marquette since 1996 stargazermarq@ gmail.com

he last American spaceship, Space Shuttle Atlantis, roared off the launch pad 39A at Kennedy Space Center on July 8, 2011, the 135th flight of the Space Transportation System. Once envisioned as a profitable space truck to put satellites in orbit for commercial, military and academic customers, the STS program became extremely complex and hard to keep a commercial schedule after the 1986 launch disaster that destroyed orbiter Challenger, killing seven astronauts. NASA’s focus changed to building the $100 billion International Space Station, and after 35 error-free flights, the magnificent facility continues to orbit the Earth every 90 minutes in its 16th year of continued occupation of six person crews since November 2001, now up to Expedition 51. But the 2003 reentry destruction of orbiter Columbia after a successful 17day science mission (caused by a hole punched in the wing) during lift-off got NASA thinking it was time to build a new, Apollo-style capsule called Orion. Once part of the “Constellation” program initiated in 2007 by the administration of President George Bush, it was cancelled by the President Barak Obama Administration in favor of developing private space industry. The Orion spacecraft managed to survive and is being built, but it is without a rocket to launch it, as technical problems and money constraints have delayed the Space Launch System. In 2017, it is billionaires and their private rocket programs that are launching satellites to space with the ambitious plans to put the first humans in orbit by a non-governmental entity. SpaceX, Orbital ATK, and soon Blue Origin have become the big players in a new private sector “Space Race”. Their bottom line is making money, and to do that they are reinventing rocket travel in the 21st Century. SpaceX is owned by Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla Co. and former PayPal entrepreneur. And Blue Origin is owned by Jeff Bezos, Amazon CEO. They both have rockets that return their first stage to Earth after a launch for reuse, saving tens of millions of dollars. SpaceX has been very active in 2016 and 2017, launching commercial satellites and the supply ship, Dragon, to the ISS. Blue Origin is soon to enter the arena as they are building a huge complex near the Kennedy Space Visitor Center, where orbiter Atlantis is now displayed Both Musk and Bezos are in a competition to

launch the first people in space by a private firm, and they are targeting 2018. SpaceX’s manned ship is Crew Dragon, and Blue Origin’s is using the company name for their 6-person spaceship. Both private manned spacecraft are to be flown by autopilot. Orbital ATK and CEO David Thompson are also major players in the private space race, having launched their rockets with commercial satellites and a supply ship Cygnus to the ISS several times. They built the unmanned spacecraft Dawn, still orbiting the dwarf planet Ceres in the asteroid belt. Boeing is also building a manned spacecraft, called Starliner. NASA astronauts will be integrated in those private manned spacecraft as part of the Commercial Crew Program when they begin their missions, so there will be some hope for the new astronaut recruits These private companies are leasing launch pads and facilities at America’s famous Cape Canaveral in Florida, and the Space Port has spent the last five years gearing up for the transition. Meanwhile, NASA astronauts are sticking their thumbs out for a ride to space, with the 6-person Orion spacecraft not expected to become operational until maybe as late as 2022. When Atlantis landed July 21, 2011 after its 12-day mission, 15,000 employees of NASA and their contractors lost their jobs. Some have trickled back to the Space Coast as NASA gears up for support of SpaceX, Blue Origin, Orbital ATK, and Boeing. Understand what has happened here. The world's space leader that put 12 men on the Moon from 1969-1972 are without access to the International Space Station, whose major parts were hauled up by the Space Shuttle and largely fit together by American and Russian spacewalking hardhats, with American taxpayers footing more than half of the bill. The U.S., Russians, Europe and Japan have large sections of the ISS devoted to their own science research. The only way Americans can now visit and work on the ISS is by hitching a ride aboard the 3-person Soyuz spacecraft, remodeled several times since its first 1967 maiden flight. At $60 million a seat. Are American taxpayers okay with that? NASA's budget is about one-half of one percent of the US Budget, $19 billion in 2017—something like $20 per taxpayer a year. China has their own spaceship, the three-person Shenzhou—largely designed like the Russian Soyuz. They have flown six manned missions since 2003 and 15 total “taikonauts.” And they have orbited two space stations that have housed their space fliers. The Chinese are boasting about going to the Moon in the 2020s. And Japan has a manned spaceship in production that may be launched in a few years. Once the leader in the Space Age, that title for America may soon be vanquished.

upiter is high in the southwest and rising in the east is Saturn as these two giant planets are the big attractions all Summer. But let’s not forget the Milky Way rising in the east with Saturn, though it will be a little washed out by the bright Moon reaching full phase on Sunday, called the Thunder Moon by Native Americans for July storms, or Buck Moon, for the full set of antlers on deer and moose. Tuesday, July 4 Lots of fireworks in the skies on this date in history, including: 1054 AD an exploded star is seen in the daytime as a supernova in Taurus the Bull, and we see it today as the Crab Nebula; 1997 NASA’s Pathfinder spacecraft lands on Mars with the mini-rover Sojourner; 2005 a ballistic probe released by spacecraft Deep Impact slams into comet Temple 1, and the impact is recorded from the NASA craft as well as telescope on and orbiting the Earth; 2006 Space Shuttle Discovery STS-121 was launched on a construction mission to the International Space Station. Wednesday, July 5 The Moon waxing to full phase, drawing all eyes skyward on a Summer night, even if just for a quick glance. Any binoculars or small telescope will reveal the mountains, craters and ancient lava seas on the Moon. TIP: allow any telescope to cool down to the outside temperature, and start out using the lowest power (highest numbered eyepiece, like 25 mm). Thursday, July 6 On this 1687 date in astronomy history, the great Isaac Newton published his breakthrough book of physic, “Principia.” The basic laws of nature—from the level of atoms to clusters of galaxies—were revealed and supported by the mathematics calculus Newton also invented. Most of us know an easy Newton Law: every action has an opposite and equal reaction.

Friday, July 7 On this 1998 date in space history, the first satellite was successfully launched from a submerged American submarine—a capability not often thought about in the advances of the Space Age. Russia also can launch a small satellite from its submarines patrolling the oceans of the world. Saturday, July 8 On this 2011 date in space history, the last Space Shuttle was launched on a supply mission to the International Space Station. Orbiter Atlantis was the 135th flight of the program begun in 1981 with Columbia. Columbia was destroyed upon reentry in 2003 and Challenger blew up during launch in 1986. Orbiters Atlantis, Endeavour and Discovery have been mothballed to museums. Sunday, July 9 On this 1979 date in space history, Voyager 2 flew by the largest planet Jupiter, on its way years later to Saturn, Uranus and Neptune. Still alive and sending data, Voyager 2 is in interstellar space, 12 billion miles from the Sun. Monday, July 10 On this 1962 date in space history, NASA launched Telstar 1, the first satellite to broadcast live television from America to Europe. The satellite inspired a #1 hit instrumental song in December ’62 called “Telstar” by the Tornados. The song was the first #1 hit in America by a British group.

19 theloaferonline.com | July 4, 2017

THIS WEEK

SKIES

Celestial events in the skies for the week of July 4-10, 2017 as compiled for The Loafer by Mark D. Marquette.

Fireworks on the Lake

theloaferonline.com | July 4, 2017

Batteries Not Included

By Andy Ross aross@ theloaferonline.com

y first thought was “I should say I’m busy that day.” It’s not that I dislike the outdoors, but I’m super allergic, I burn easily in the sun, and ever since my great grandfather Lemuel died fighting off the rare ocean sasquatch I fear meeting a watery death myself. But this was to be one of those “Lazy fourth of July lake days.” I’ve never been on a “lazy lake day” but I thought maybe I should be a little more social instead of holding up in my home all day and watching “Yankee Doodle Dandy” on TCM. As I drove to the dock where the boat was, several thoughts swirled though my mind as I began to weave a dream of terror for the day. “What if something goes wrong? What if I eat uncooked pork and die a puking death? What if I go overboard and this was all an elaborate plan to get rid of me?” and the grandest of these thoughts “How do I feel about my sacrificing my dignity for the safety of wearing Spongebob Squarepants floaties?” Soon, I found myself at the dock, greeting friends, and stepping onto a boat without Spongebob Floaties. It was a small group of friends, but on the boat it made it seem like a much larger group. The boat was one of those party pontoon boats, the kind you can grill on. As we floated down the river I was thankful it wasn’t too hot, the views were lovely, and the music wasn’t as awful as I had thought it might have been (Music Snob for life!). I sat over on one side of the boat and enjoyed a burger. I kept mostly to myself, chiming in here and there. As the day drifted on, we made a turn and went back in the direction towards the dock. By the time we made it back to the dock, dusk had come. As the captain tied the boat to the dock, while his buddy went and got his truck with the boat trailer, he gleefully announced “And now time for the fireworks!” Everyone cheered, not I. I was thinking that shooting fireworks off a boat tied to a wooden dock is a bad idea, and I was also thinking of the ethics in filming this and submitting it to America’s Funniest Home Videos--would I have to split the money with them? Some joy came to me in the form of seeing the fireworks were fairly small sized things and nothing epic. Still, the whole thing just seemed like a bad idea to me. I said I was feeling tired and I would

“You should come out on the boat with us!” the text message read. watch it all from my car, with the windows and moonroof open. They said I would miss out on all the fun, but they understood. Sitting in my car I blasted “Fire” by The Crazy World of Arthur Brown and watched people shoot fireworks off a boat at a lake. It all went fine, better than I thought. That was until a gale of lake wind came out of nowhere and sent a Roman candle into the awning on the boat. The awning caught fire, and everyone yelled and scrambled for fire extinguishers. It looked like a Nascar pit crew leaping into action, four of the friends rushed the boat with extinguishers in hand. As they went into action blasting the fire away, the captain rushed over to see what damage may have been done. In their adrenaline rush of putting out the fire, two of the people didn’t turn their

extinguishers off as they turned to talk to the captain. Blasting him as well, and sending him rushing back and over the side of the boat into the water. All in all, it was a most memorable Fourth of July. See you next week.

theloaferonline.com | July 4, 2017

Transformers: The Last Knight (Rated PG-13) 2 Transformers (out of 4)

Pop Life

By Ken Silvers ksilvers@ theloaferonline.com

It appears the "Transformers" movie series is becoming a bit rusty, at least if you go by box office results. "Transformers: The Last Knight", the latest in the series that began in 2007, fell well below box office expectations when compared to the previous films.

owever, never one to miss the chance of wearing a franchise into the ground, Hollywood brought the battling Transformers back to the big screen in hopes of a summer smash. The filmmakers even brought a Oscar winner to the battle, Anthony Hopkins, who apparently needed the work. Mark Wahlberg returns in the role of Cade Yeager, a single father and struggling inventor, who has made it his mission to protect the Autobots (the good Transformers) from the humans who have turned against them. Despite the efforts of the governments of the world, the Autobots and Decepticons (the bad guys) continue crashing on Earth in what no doubt will be a huge showdown. The story flashes back to 484 AD in the age of King Arthur and reveals just how long the Transformers have been around. Of course the age of knights ties into the plot and set the stage for one of the characters to become the person who will protect the Earth from the ruthless Cybertron. Cybertron? Oh, Cybertron is the home world of the Transformers that was destroyed, but still has some Transformers in residence, including the sorceress Quintessa, who claims to have created all of the Transformers. Quintessa has devised a plan to use the normally good Optimus Prime in her efforts to rebuild Cybertron at the expense of Earth. The plot of this movie seems a bit all over the place, and is really not that meaningful to discuss. Director Michael Bay (the other Transformers movies) is determined

to wow us with spectacular special effects, but while some are certainly impressive, I was a bit overwhelmed by all the bombast. You know what they say about too much of a good thing. The special effects aside, the film also features Megan Fox (who apparently gave up after two films) look-alike Laura Haddock as Viviane Wembly, a Professor of English Literature at the University of Oxford, who I'm sure was cast to clash with Wahlberg's all-American male character, and provide some "witty" banter. Haddock is good in her role, but her talent seems really wasted in this film. Wahlberg on the other hand, comes off as annoyed, but I suppose that fits the tone of his character. Wahlberg also appears a bit haggard in appearance, but Bay still has provided a chance for him to show off his chiseled body. The film is essentially battling Transformers, over-the-top special effects, and actors trying not to act embarrassed. You know, the typical Transformers movie. The movie runs 2 hours and 29 minutes, of which 29 minutes could have easily been trimmed, but where would Bay have put the King Arthur scenes? "Transformers: The Last Knight" is overwrought and seems like several movies in one. I really hope the word "last" in the films title proves true, as it's time too give the rusty 'bots a long vacation.

theloaferonline.com | July 4, 2017

Festivals

Got an event coming up?

Events

Send it to The Loafer! info@theloaferonline.com

Concerts

Exhibits

theloaferonline.com | July 4, 2017

Gregory Bald C Appalachian Wanderers

By Jason & Daniel Worley jdworley@ theloaferonline.com

ades Cove is, without a doubt, one of the crown jewels of Tennessee’s diverse outdoor landscapes. The wide mountain valley is home to historic cabins, sweeping views, and an abundance of wildlife such black bears and river otters. On any given day, it is also usually filled to overflowing with thousands of cars all circling the Cades Cove Loop Road. Believe it or not, the cove sees over two million visitors each year, which is more than some entire national parks receives. It can be hard to enjoy the views of Rocky Top when you’ve been sitting in the same spot for an hour choking on exhaust fumes in the summer heat. Overlooking the valley just a couple of miles to the south lies Gregory Bald. This mile-high summit offers a welcome respite from the crowds below. Cool breezes and open fields make it an ideal spot for a picnic or just to nap in the sun, but the real stars of the show are the flame azaleas which dot the mountaintop. The hybrid azaleas range in color from pink to yellow and even red. They are completely unique only to this small slice of the Smokies, so special, in fact, that the British has collected multiple samples for study of their distinct hybridization. Mid summer is the ideal time to hike to the bald, as June will see the azaleas in their peak. If you come later towards August, you’ll also have the chance to enjoy some delicious mountain blueberries. October will have amazing views of the changing leaves stretching down into the cove in Tennessee, or down to the Little Tennessee River in North Carolina. Even if you hike in the winter or spring, this hike is well-worth the arduous hike to reach the summit. There are three major routes you can take to reach the top, two starting from Cades Cove, and the other on the other side of the mountain at Twentymile off of North Carolina’s Highway 28. We have yet to tackle the North Carolina route, which makes a steep climb up from the banks of the Little Tennessee River along the Wolf Ridge Trail,

Summer is officially here, fellow wanderers! Of course, we all know that means its time for bar-b-cues, fishing trips, and family vacations to get underway.

but nonetheless, it is still an enjoyable hike. Gregory Ridge Trail is the longer of the two Tennessee routes, making a round-trip visit a total of 11.3 miles. Gregory Bald Trail lies several miles down the road and shortens the walk to just over eight miles. Be forewarned, however. If you decide to take the shorter option, you’ll have to drive the one-way Parsons Branch Road, a narrow gravel drive which will

dump you onto U.S. 129, known to most as the Tail of the Dragon. There are miles of very curvy roads to get back to the north side of the park, but a highlight of the route is the chance to drive the Foothills Parkway on your way home. It’s best to do some research before venturing out as well. Cades Cove Loop Road is closed to vehicles on select mornings during the summer season to allow bike and pedestrian traffic a chance to enjoy the wildlife. Usually the road will be open by 10:00 A.M., so plan accordingly. Also, Parson’s Branch Road as stated before is extremely narrow, winding, and remote. Make sure you have a vehicle that can handle the terrain, and also check with the park website to make

sure the road is currently open. It is closed throughout the winter months; storms also have a habit of knocking down trees in the area that can shut it down for several days. Gregory Ridge and Gregory Bald Trails both have their highlights. Gregory Bald is shorter while also having a smaller elevation gain, so it is the easier of the two. Gregory Ridge, however, is a pedestrian-only trail (the other allows horseback riders), and therefore is in much better shape (no mud!) It also climbs through a much larger portion of oldgrowth forest, with trees of enormous proportions at every turn. If you have time, you can even do a loop hike combining both that will come out to around 13.6 miles. It doesn’t really matter which trail you take in the end, because the bald lies at the end of both. You’ll want to spend some time here on the summit no doubt, so pack a blanket with you on your hike so you can lay down and enjoy the view. Clear days allow stunning vistas of the cove far below and the greater Tennessee Valley beyond. Looking into North Carolina, the views take in much of the Nantahala National Forest and Fontana Lake. Gregory Bald is just one of two balds the National Park Service maintains in the park (the other being Andrews Bald near Clingmans Dome). Before the park was established, these grassy fields dotted the Smokies’ main crest and were filled with cattle during the summer months. Local farmers would drive their herds here to eat the mountain grass so they could grow crops on the fertile valley farms below. Now that the cattle and natural wildlife like the wood bison are no longer here to keep the encroaching forest in check, the Park Service has to keep it trimmed manually. Other area balds such as Silers, Parsons, and Spence Field are almost entirely reclaimed by the forest. Gregory Bald will serve to maintain that legacy while also being home to the unique biological wonders that grace its slopes.

theloaferonline.com | July 4, 2017

Prodigal Son The turbulence dissuaded me Leaving me bent Cracked Almost broken Splintered emotions pricked relationships Decaying any semblance of intimacy For so long I looked down Staring blankly at the bottom As my gaze grew closer I found myself on my knees With no other choice

The Casual Word

By Langley Shazor Follow Langley at TheCasualWord

But to look up That is where I found him Waiting for me patiently Hand extended Arms open Pulling me out of my despair My misery Into joy and peace Circumstances hadn’t changed But God gave me knew eyes to see them with “Peace, be still” My troubled heart and troubled waters Subsided He gave me a smile

“

That I may share that joy With you

I love the Loafer." Andrew G.

444 E Elk Ave, Elizabethton, TN

July 7th, 2017 from 6pm - 8pm Free and open to the public Website: www.becomeavictim.com

teven James will be signing copies of his latest suspense novel, Every Deadly Kiss, while Jt Oaks performs songs from his newest album, Him. Every Deadly Kiss is the tenth book in the Bowers files, an awardwinning series featuring FBI Special Agent Patrick Bowers. Steven James is the best-selling, critically acclaimed author of fourteen novels. He has a master’s degree in storytelling from ETSU and has taught storytelling and writing around the world. Best known for his psychological thrillers, he has received more than a dozen honors and awards for his books, including three Christy Awards for best suspense. His novel The Queen was a finalist for an International Thriller Award. He is the host of the podcast “The Story Blender,” in which he interviews leading voices from the world of writing, cinema, and oral performance about the craft of great storytelling. For information on his fiction, visit www.stevenjames.net. Jt Oaks is a singer and songwriter, weaving together stories for listeners nationwide. He calls his unique style of music “city-grass”—celebrating both his urban influence and his rural roots. His songs celebrate the poignant moments of life, even as he reaches out to use his music to help those less fortunate. His insights and passion will inspire you, entertain you, and give you eyes to see the stories always circling around you. Jt’s new album featuring solo piano hymn arrangements released April 2017.

27 theloaferonline.com | July 4, 2017

Book and CD Release Party

The Coffee Company

theloaferonline.com | July 4, 2017

Answers on page 30

Puggy is a 2 year old Pug mix. He is neutered and up to date on all vaccines. This sweet boy is great with kids! He has a cute underbite! Please make Puggy a part of your family!

Steve and Edie 2 are year old brother and sister Chihuahuas. They are both neutered and spayed and up to date on all vaccines. These cuties are deeply bonded and up must be adopted together. They are very sweet dogs!

he Bridge Home has an ongoing aluminum can can collection in front of the shelter at 2061 Hwy 75 in Blountville,TN 37617. The cans are collected by a volunteer and the money from the aluminum goes towards badly needed food and supplies for the animals The Bridge Home No Kill Animal Rescue has started a pet food pantry for people that have had financial hardships because of job loss or medical problems and are struggling to feed their pet. They can come by the shelter and get cat or dog food to get through the tough time. Donations can be sent to The Bridge

Home Shelter PO Box 654 Blountville, TN 37617 Every animal in their care is spayed or neutered and fully vaccinated before being adopted. Being a non profit the shelter is funded entirely by membership dues and private donations. They always need volunteers or monetary donations. Other always needed items:pet food, cat litter & cat toys dog treats & dog toys,paper towels, cleaners, office supplies,Purina weight circles. Phone: 423-239-5237 Hours are Mon-Fri 12pm-6pm Sat 12pm3pm and Sun 2pm-4pm. Website is www. bridgehomerescue@gmail.com or like them on Facebook: www.Facebook.com/ bridgehome

theloaferonline.com | July 4, 2017

PETS

OF THE WEEK

theloaferonline.com | July 4, 2017

THINGS TO DO Blood Drive Marsh Regional Blood Center will conduct public blood drives at the area locations. Visit http:// tinyurl.com/n4aujx9 to find a location near you. In addition to scheduled blood drives, donors are welcome at Marsh Regional’s collection centers: 111 W. Stone Drive, Suite 300, Kingsport, 2428 Knob Creek Road, Johnson City and 1996 W. State St., Bristol. For more information about scheduling a blood drive at a local business, church, school or community organization, please call 423-408-7500, 423-652-0014 or 276-679-4669 or visit www. marshblood.com.

ers Park. Everyone is welcome to attend and participate. Come drum, hoop/holler, dance, or just relax and take in the scene, no experience or “talent” necessary. There are shared instruments and of course you can bring your own drums or percussion. It's all improvised, so there are no mistakes. We just smile and keep playing. Bring your own seating! ••••••••••••••••••••••••••

Stress Clinic Community Acupuncture Enjoy a de-stressing and pain relieving thirty minute seated acupuncture session in the Art Gallery of The Renaissance Center in Kingsport. Hosted by Acupuncture Associates, come and get your painless acupuncture •••••••••••••••••••••••••• and get your nervous system strengthened! $40 (plus get a $20 The Casual Word bonus voucher to apply toward Adult Creative Writing Class Join us for a free, fun, engaging, your next visit). Join us EVERY and different look into writing. THIRD THURSDAY 12-3pm. For inIn this class, we will not focus fomations, call 423-239-7044. on structure, form, or rules, but •••••••••••••••••••••••••• on the freedom of writing. It is the goal of this class to open the Mr. Bond, The Science Guy, permind to its full creative potential forms at the Library by allowing participants to write The Johnson City Public Library what they want, how they want to is pleased to host Mr. Bond, the write it. Sessions will be student Science Guy, for an evening perlead; we will engage in topics and formance on Monday, July 10 at subjects that are of interest to 6:30 p.m. in the Jones Meeting the students. The atmos- phere is Room. In his “Tomorrow’s World” casual and jovial. This class is de- program, Mr. Bond will show ausigned for all those 18 and up who diences how science is building wish to try their hand at creative a better world through new technologies, new forms of energy writing. Thursdays @ 6:00 p.m. Jones and a look at science for TomorCreativity Center. Bristol Public row’s World. Kids will use pulleys, defy gravity, have a tug-o-war and Library. launch a catapult. Perfect for all •••••••••••••••••••••••••• ages. This educational, yet highly enJC Community Drum Circle tertaining program, is presented The Johnson City Community as part of the “Build a Better Drum Circle meets every WednesWorld” Summer Reading Proday evening (April – October), gram. Support materials are pro7pm - 8:30pm, inside the Farmers’ vided by the Tennessee State LiMarket Pavilion next to Found-

brary and Archives. The Summer Reading Program will continue through July 20th. Children are encouraged to participate in the Summer Reading Program and register at the library or online at www.jcpl.net. For more information about this free program or other Youth Services programs, please call 423-434-4458. •••••••••••••••••••••••••• Crumley House to Host Polynesian Fund-raiser The Crumley House, located in Limestone, Tennessee is hosting its Annual Polynesian Beach Party on Saturday, August 5, at 6PM. The party will feature steel drums as well as music by DJ Robbie Britton. A silent, super silent, and live auction will be conducted. Gates will open at 5:30PM for early auction viewing and tours of the new Crumley House resident cottages. A Polynesian-style dinner will be served at 6:30PM. The menu will include tropical foods in addition to local favorites and desserts. Dancing will end the evening’s festivities. All proceeds will benefit brain injury survivors served by the Crumley House, the region’s only brain injury rehabilitation center. To purchase tickets, make a

donation, or become a sponsor, library or online to participate in contact Michelle Ferguson at 423- the Summer Reading Program. 257-3644, extension 7. Support materials for the Summer Reading Program are provid•••••••••••••••••••••••••• ed by the Tennessee State Library Reading with AGAPE at the JC and Archives. For more informaPublic Library tion and to register for this free Families with children ages five program or other Youth Services to eighteen years old are invited programs, please call 423-434to read with the residents of 4458. Agape Nursing and Rehabilita•••••••••••••••••••••••••• tion Center on Wednesday, July 12 and Wednesday, July 26 at 4:00 NARFE Monthly Meeting p.m. Participants will meet at the The National Active and Retired Youth Services desk of the John- Federal Employees will hold their son City Public Library and walk monthly meeting on Thursday together to Agape at 4:00 p.m. No July 6, 2017 at 11:00 am at the registration is required for this Empire Buffet, 2614 N. Roan St., Johnson City. The speaker will be free program. This program is part of the Ms. Tabitha Ebbert, from the lo“Build a Better World” Summer cal Alzhiemer Association. For Reading Program which will con- additional information contact tinue through July 20th. Children Wayne Robertson at 423-741are encouraged to register at the 0612.

Cryptogram: When she stopped conforming to the conventional picture of femininity she finally began to enjoy being a woman. DropQuote: "We have always held to the hope, the belief, the conviction that there is a better life, a better world, beyond the horizon."

And Retro Typewriters (With Bluetooth)

By Jim Kelly since 1989 jkelly@ theloaferonline.com

Because this is the week set aside for celebrating our independence, I want to declare my freedom to write about two seemingly unrelated topics. Of course, in the wonderful world of pop culture, everything is ultimately interrelated and connected in often surprising and sometimes bizarre ways. So, here goes

Kelly’s Place

ast week’s online edition of fastcodsign.com featured a column by Mark Wilson that informed his readers that they should be able to read it in two minutes. Do we really need this information? Should I include a little message box that tells my readers (including you) how long I estimate it will take to read what I have to say? In any event, after he addressed the time-to-read issue, Wilson got down to business by telling us about dogs and emotions. “A good dog just knows. When you’re sad, she’ll sleep in your bed. When you’re overwhelmed, she’ll keep her distance. And when you want to play? A dog is always ready to play.” But his column isn’t about dogs. It’s about drones--drones that can fill in when your pet isn’t around. Wilson introduces us to Eirini Malliaraki, a Royal College of Art student who is fond of programming drones to act like dogs. According to Wilson, Eirini “modified a drone to analyze human facial expressions and detect five emotions--fear, joy, surprise, anger, and sadness. In response, the device changes its movements to subtly communicate with the user.” You know, like a dog. The inevitable YouTube video accompanies Wilson’s column, and we can see for ourselves how a drone can be made to resemble an airborne Man’s Best Friend. After telling us about people who treat their drones like surrogate pets, he goes on to declare that “society seems destined to deal with drones on a daily basis very soon.” Who knows? Maybe we will be able to purchase our future drones at stores that are set up to resemble high tech Petsmarts. Unlike the nightmarish visions that are often conjured up by those who are less than enthusiastic about the arrival of drones, Wilson offers us a vision of suburban

backyards filled with joy and laughter. And, just think, drones don’t have to be housetrained. Not yet, that is. Wilson’s sanguine account of drones-as-pets reminds me of Sherry Turkle’s groundbreaking 1984 book THE SECOND SELF: COMPUTERS AND THE HUMAN SPIRIT that demonstrated how children were coming to make little or no distinctions between their video games and their human friends. While I have very little interest in adopting a pet drone, I do have a keen interest in purchasing Elretron Inc.’s new wireless bluetooth typewriter keyboard. Now taking orders on its crowd-funded website, these new retro typewriter keyboards are being marketed under the Penna name, and are available in two basic models--a vintage typewriter with “retro chrome keycaps” and a more recent, yet still vintage model with “diamond shape keycaps.” In a true marriage of old school and new school, these keyboards look and feel like the real (old) things, while at the same time staying connected to modern mobile devices. And, yes, their keys sound like those found on vintage typewriters, something that might make them a little distracting in some environments. Although I tend to think that all the ambient noise present in places like Starbucks will drown out the clackety-clack sounds made by the chrome or diamond keys. And just think how impressive you will look amid all the other pretentious people with their laptops, tablets, and phones. I actually had the audacity a couple of weeks ago to show up with nothing but pen and paper. It’s a thousand wonders I wasn’t banned from the establishment. Check out Elretron’s Penna website for some very classy videos showing their “typewriters” in action. I have a suspicion that this product’s most enthusiastic customers will be those who have never touched the keyboard of a manual or electric typewriter. You know, the same people who are buying turntables designed to play vinyl records they have never touched or listened to until now. Although I didn’t like vinyl back in the day and still don’t like it now, I have a fondness for retro typewriters. That’s why one of my favorite apps is Hanx Writer, named after Tom Hanks and designed to transform your tablet or smartphone into a Royal, Smith-Corona, or IBM Selectric typewriter (and, yes, the transformation comes complete with the clackety-clack sounds that can be muted if you so desire). I love to take notes in meetings with this app while watching the reactions of those sitting near me. I will leave you to figure out why drones and typewriters find themselves side-by-side in this week’s column. Stranger things of course have happened in the twenty-eight-year history of this column. See you next week with another surprising visit to “Kelly’s Place.” In the meantime, adopt a drone and/or write something on a manual or electric typewriter.

theloaferonline.com | July 4, 2017

Empathetic Pet Drones

theloaferonline.com | July 4, 2017