PLUS:
p a g e
5
Letter from the Publisher
p a g e
7
StarWatch is Back at Bays Mtn
p a g e
20
Abingdon’s annual Shamrock 4 Miler
Page 2, The Loafer • March 10, 2015
www.theloaferonline.com
March 10, 2015 • The Loafer, Page 3
Volume 29 Issue #14
Do you see a white cat with green eyes or a black cat with blue eyes?
Publisher Luci Tate Editor Graphic Arts Director Don Sprinkle Office Manager Luci Tate Cover Design Bill May Advertising Dave Carter Elaine Farris Terry Patterson
in this issue ....
Contributing Staff Jim Kelly Andy Ross Ken Silvers Mark Marquette
4
Jim Kelly’s take on the dress - Kelly’s Place
5
Letter from the publisher
7
Bays Mountain Park Announces Schedule for Astronomy Programs
Published by Pulse Publishing, LLC., P.O. Box 3238, Johnson City, TN 37602 Phone: 423/283-4324 FAX - 423/283-4369
9
Mary B. Martin School of the Arts at ETSU presents “Old South”
12
ETSU Celtic Bands to Celebrate St. Patricks Day at Down Home
18
Recruiting Now for CASA Advocacy Training
www.theloaferonline.com info@theloaferonline.com e-mail: editorial@theloaferonline.com (editorial) adcopy@theloaferonline.com (advertising) All advertisements are accepted and published by the publisher upon the representation that the agency and/or advertiser is authorized to publish the entire contents and subject matter thereof. The agency and/or advertiser will indemnify and save the publisher harmless from any loss of expense resulting from claims or suits based upon contents of any advertisement,including claims or suits for defamation, libel, right of privacy, plagiarism, and copyright infringement.
19 Transitions - Art is Life by Wesley Venable at Flying Pig Gallery & Studio 23
Abingdon’s Annual Shamrock 4 Miler and Leprechaun Walk
music & fun 14 24
Spotlight - Great Music & Fun Times Crossword & Sudoku
columns & reviews 16 17 21 25
Stargazer - Nimoy’s Spock Character Among Other Sci-Fi Icons Skies This Week Screen Sceens - “The Lazarus Effect” Batteries Not Included - The Ink Anther
Page 4, The Loafer • March 10, 2015
What Color Is The Dress?: When Seeing Is (Dis)believing. Kelly’s Place by Jim Kelly
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, a group of artists collectively—and perhaps misleadingly—known as Impressionists, thrilled some and angered others with paintings capturing shimmering light and varying degrees of darkness. These now-famous artists realized early on that what we see when we look at an object is not the object itself but the light reflecting from its surface, and that the colors we think we see appear to change depending on the nature of the light source. As Monet’s famous 1892-93 paintings of Rouen Cathedral show, the building’s stone facade takes on a different appearance depending on whether it is viewed in the early morning or in late afternoon—and whether we are seeing it on a sunny or a cloudy day. Monet became so fascinated with his studies of how light determines our perceptions of reality that he painted over thirty views of the cathedral bathed in various degrees of sunlight. If you doubt that you never see an object, but only the light reflecting from its surface, just turn off the lights and describe what you see. We are indeed creatures of perception and our perceptions are rarely trustworthy. In what maybe only I saw as a little too coincidental, discussion about the movie “Fifty Shades Of Gray” (a colorful and colorless topic) intersected with a brief yet intense Impressionism-like debate last week over two photos of a dress that first appeared on Tumblr and then went ultra-viral, spawning a lot of scientific mumbo-jumbo, angry and incredulous exchanges, and countless parodies. Was the dress in question blue with black stripes or white with gold stripes? As it turns out, much to the chagrin of the whiteand-gold camp, the dress is actually blue with black stripes. The rea-
son we have differences of opinion about what we see has to do with a phenomenon called color constancy and the way our eyes react to color and to brighter or dimmer backgrounds. If they were still alive, Monet and his colleagues would no doubt get a kick out of this recent debate and might want to start painting dresses instead of cathedrals and lily pads. Interestingly enough, I was watching an episode of National Geographic’s “Brain Games” when I first found out about this dress debate—chalk this one up to my feeble attempts at multitasking by watching TV and news feeds on my iPad at the same time. If you’re not familiar with the series, “Brain Games” takes us on fascinating little journeys into how our brains represent—and quite often misrepresent—the world we think we are seeing, hearing, tasting, and touching. Although the show hasn’t yet featured multicolored dresses, it has asked us to determine whether blocks on a checker board appear lighter or darker, whether two lines are equal or different in length, and whether what we are seeing is a duck or a rabbit. A truly entertaining and enlightening program that will leave you with many serious doubts about your abilities to make sense of the world. This dress-debate thing caused me to revisit some of my favorite books that deal with our limited abilities to discern the nature of reality. If you were fooled by the dress, I suggest you take a look at one or more of these very interesting and recent studies. First up is John M. Henshaw’s A TOUR OF THE SENSES: HOW YOUR BRAIN INTERPRETS THE WORLD (2012). This should be required reading for biology and anatomy classes. As Henshaw points out, “Vast areas of
the human brain are devoted to countless tasks associated with acquiring, filtering, transforming, reconstructing, integrating, and organizing the information gathered in the sensation process.” In other words, we don’t actually see reality, but only our brain’s interpretation of reality. Therefore, black and blue might sometimes appear to be white and gold. A fascinating and eye-opening (no pun intended) book that everyone should read is Christopher Chabris and Daniel Simons’ THE INVISIBLE GORILLA: HOW OUR INTUITIONS DECEIVE US (2010), which is based on the infamous experiment that features a person dressed in a gorilla suit who wanders among a group of people playing basketball and yet is not seen by a majority of the spectators. Check this out on YouTube to see (or not see) what I mean. Using this pioneering experiment as their springboard, the authors treat us to many more examples that prove just how inattentive we really are and how what we think we see might not be what’s really there. A group of people who are especially attuned to the deficiencies in our modes of perception are magicians, and a book that takes us on a spell-binding tour of the ways in which magic tricks meet neuroscience is Stephen L. Macknik and Susana MartinezConde’s SLEIGHTS OF MIND: WHAT THE NEUROSCIENCE OF MAGIC REVEALS ABOUT OUR EVERYDAY DECEPTIONS (2010). After spending a year immersed in the world of magic and magicians, these two neuroscientists conclude that “the richness of your visual experience is an illusion created by the filling-in processes of your
DRESS .....
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March 10, 2015 • The Loafer, Page 5
Letter from the publisher Recently, I had the privilege of having lunch with our cover designer, Bill May of Stellar Studios. During our conversation over slurping soups, he said to me “I love your passion.” We departed on full bellies but that compliment stayed with me. It reminded me of a quote in the movie Serendipity, wherein a love struck John Cusack is told by his friend, “The Greeks didn’t write obituaries. They only asked one question after a man died: “Did he have passion?” It is a wonderful and powerful question. Especially if you have already identified your passion. But, for many people it probably feels more like yet another example of people elevating this idea of “finding your passion” without actually knowing what that might be. There’s a lot of talk about passion these days. From teachers, speakers, parents, friends. “Find your passion…Pursue your passion…Do what you love.” The reality is that passion can live in all sorts of places. And while finding your passion is an elusive pursuit, there is only one real formula: try things. Try things, and see how they fit. Try jobs, and
find out what you like, and, just as importantly, what you don’t like. It might take some risks, but the end result is well worth it. I did. 21 years ago I walked into Taps, a local restaurant and pub, and met Bill Williams, then the publisher of The Loafer. I was just 20 years young. Uh oh, did I just give away my age? What I didn’t know then, was that he had handed me a powerful tool. The ability to go out and seek this beautiful place full of Arts, Entertainment, Theatre, Music, Festivals, Nightlife - everything the Tri-Cities area is about. I had found my passion. Last week, I obtained sole ownership of The Loafer. If the history of the Tri Cities area is about anything, it is about risk, challenge, and building....and, not being averse to change and challenge. I could not be any more honored than to be able to share this great place with you through The Loafer, via its proficient staff of writers and artists. Look around; and, you too will see and recognize the people who are imagining and striving, while creating the next chapter of this fascinating place we call the great-
er Tri-Cities. We love to boast about our 29th year anniversary of The Loafer; but, now even more so, as we grow for another 29 years and beyond. I want to sincerely thank our advertisers for their support. I know their presence in this magazine has been a great investment for their business, and I commend
them for helping The Loafer fulfill its mission to pass along the great arts and entertainment our surrounding areas have to offer. So, join us. Open the door to finding your passion. You know you want to. Luci Tate - Publisher
Have an event coming up? Email a press release and photos to:
editorial@theloaferonline.com
Page 6, The Loafer • March 10, 2015
Civic Chorale presents
Singing Together
At 3:00 p.m. on Sunday, March 15 in First Presbyterian Church in Johnson City The Civic Chorale will present Singing Together, a concert in partnership with Highlands Youth Ensemble. The church is located at 105 South Boone Street. While there is no admission charge for the concert, donations are gratefully accepted at the door, with a $10 suggested donation. The Mountain Empire Children’s Choral Academy (MECCA) is a regional organization with choirs at various age levels for young people throughout the TriCities region and beyond. Highlands Youth Ensemble is their high-school-age choir. MECCA Artistic Director Jane Morison conducts the group. On the program, first The Civic Chorale will sing representative selections from their repertoire. Then, Highlands Youth Ensemble will sing several selections. Finally, the two choirs will join together in five compositions. Leading off will be a polychoral composition by Heinrich Schűtz setting the text of Psalm 100. A Czech folk song, “Waters Ripple and Flow” will be sung by the combined female voices. All the singers will again join in the evocative “Earth Song” by American composer Frank
Gray Teen Book Club
Uglies
by Scott Westerfeld Gray Library Tuesday, March 17, 6:30 p.m.
“You only live once, but if you do it right, once is enough.” - Mae West
Are you a teen who likes to read and talk about books? Then come to our Teen Book Club meeting at the Gray Library on Tuesday, March 17 at 6:30 p.m. The book for discussion this month is Uglies, by Scott Westerfeld. It is the first book in his Uglies trilogy.
Ticheli. Then the male voices will sing “There is Nothing Like a Dame” from the acclaimed musical “South Pacific.” The program will conclude with the lush and powerful sounds of Paul Tschesnokoff’s “O Lord God.” The Civic Chorale was founded in 1973 by Robert LaPella with a small group of invited singers and Jane LaPella as the gifted accompanist. Over the years, the group has grown to become the region’s premiere auditioned volunteer chorus. In addition to singing the standard choral repertoire from Gregorian chant to modern compositions, the Chorale has presented numerous world and regional premieres and frequently collaborated with other music organizations in the region, including the Symphony of the Mountains, the Johnson City Symphony Orchestra, and the East Tennessee Children’s Choir. Since 1998, the Chorale has been led by conductor David Hendricksen. Accompanists are Lisa Runner, piano, and David Runner, organ. For additional information, visit the Chorale web site at www. thecivicchorale.org or contact the conductor by phone at 423-6380409 or by email at conductordavid@embarqmail.com ‘Tally’s adventures begin in Uglies, where she learns the truth about what life as a Pretty really means. She rebels against the surgery that will make her a Pretty, but ultimately succumbs. In Pretties, Tally has forgotten all about her Ugly life, and when she’s reminded, she has a hard time listening. And what little’s left of the old Tally is further compromised in Specials, because Tally has been transformed into a fierce fighting machine. But when she’s offered a chance to forever improve civilization, will she be able to overcome her brainwashing?’ This program is free and open to teens grade 6 to 12. Snacks are provided and there will be a door prize drawing! For more information, please call the Gray Library at 477-1550.
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Bays Mountain Park Announces
Schedule for Popular Astronomy Programs Bays Mountain Park’s free observing sessions of our skies – both night and day – have returned! StarWatch, a program allowing the public to enjoy the splendor of the night sky at the park’s observatories, returns every Saturday night in March and April, while SunWatch will take place every Saturday and Sunday at 3:00 p.m. near the park’s dam allowing the public to safely view the sun. Hosted by park staff and Bays Mountain Astronomy Club members operating the park’s telescopes, as well as their own, StarWatch offers an exciting tour of the night sky. Viewers can gaze at the moon’s craters and imagine themselves flying over in a spacecraft, and also witness celestial places of star birth and star death. Sessions are held each Saturday night in March and April starting at dusk. If the weather does not cooperate, an alternative activity will be held in the Planetarium. SunWatch is a great way to learn about the sun, our nearest star. Observing programs are held each clear Saturday and Sunday at 3:00 p.m. at the dam. Participants can
witness the sun up close and in detail possibly getting a chance to see sunspots, dark patches on the sun’s photosphere that are often the size of the earth! Unlike StarWatch, no alternative programming will be available should weather conditions impact SunWatch programs. Annually, more than 150,000 visitors pass through Bays Mountain Park making it one of the State of Tennessee’s Top 50 Most Visited
Attractions, according to the State of Tennessee Department of Tourist Development. One of the nation’s largest cityowned parks with 3,550 acres, Bays Mountain Park features nearly 40 miles of hiking trails, a state-of-the-art planetarium, wildlife habitats, ropes course with zip line, fun exhibits, a 44-acre lake, trails for mountain biking and much, much more.
Spring Art Classes at the Arts Depot Pre-Registration required for classes
Alcohol Ink Workshop Instructor: Joyce Samuel Students will learn the basics of working with bright, colorful, alcohol inks to create several beautiful pieces of art during the class period. The Arts Depot is a non-profit volunteer organization dedicated to promoting the arts in the community and features the region’s artists. The Arts Depot is located 314 Depot Square, Abingdon, VA. The gallery and artists studios are open Wednesday through Saturday 10-4 pm or by appointment. There is no admission charge. To find out more about classes, get materials lists and registration info. Please contact: Arts Depot 276-928-9091 or abingdonartsdepot@eva.org.
Date: Saturday, March 14th • 11 am-3 pm. Ages: 16 through Adult • Beginners to Intermediate Cost: $45
March 10, 2015 • The Loafer, Page 7
Page 8, The Loafer • March 10, 2015
Bristol TN Fire Department announces Lucca Soria the 2015 Citizens Fire Academy performs at Acoustic Coffeehouse
The Bristol Tennessee Fire Department is accepting enrollment applications for its Citizens Fire Academy which is scheduled to begin on April 30, 2015. The enrollment period will extend from February 16th through March 27th for interested Bristol, Tennessee residents age 18 years and older. The maximum number of participants is limited to ten so interested persons should submit their applications early. The Citizens Fire Academy is a public education based program offering attendees the opportunity to learn firefighting skills in a controlled environment. Students will be exposed to the many facets of being a firefighter and they will participate in a program of instruction that focuses on fire/ life safety and fire prevention. “The academy does not present a curriculum designed to prepare participants for a career as a firefighter, but extends a fire service
knowledge base by way of classroom instruction and practical exercises,” Jack Spurgeon, Asst. Chief said. “All of the instruction is presented by professional Bristol Tennessee firefighters.” The program will enhance a participant’s understanding of the department’s capabilities and limitations, and is designed to foster a meaningful, cooperative relationship between firefighters and the citizens of Bristol. The six week program will introduce the participants to the history of the fire service; safety topics; firefighting skills, tactics, and strategy; basic first aid and CPR; and, provide insight to the Bristol Tennessee Fire Department’s all-hazard approach to emergency preparation and mitigation.
The class begins on Thursday, April 30, 2015 at 6:00 p.m. and will continue for six successive Thursdays. For additional information or to request a copy of the application, please contact the Bristol Fire Department at 423-989-5701. Applications also may be downloaded at bristoltn.org.
“Lucca Soria is a singer-songwriter from Minburn, Iowa who writes songs about growing up in the Midwest, over-interpreted Bible stories, heartbreak, long walks, and other things of the like. He’s released eight cassettes since 2012 and moved to Nashville this past November to finish his book of poems, 12 Poems; his novel, Two Drawn Out Breaths; the screenplay for his Western, Two Gunshots and One Dawn; and his most recent album, tentatively titled Nashville Fog. When asked by KCWI’s Great Day television show why he’s chosen to move to Nashville, he responded to “go out on the town, get drunk, get loud.” With a love of American music and its history, Lucca plans
on playing as many songs as he can, as loud as he can, as sharp as he can until he dies. He is performing at The Acoustic Coffeehouse on Tuesday, March 10 at 8 p.m.”
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Legacy with a Capital ‘L’
March 10, 2015 • The Loafer, Page 9
Fraternity, historic neighborhood collide, collaborate in new South Arts documentary “Legacy” is an important word in any culture. In the South, “legacies” evoke deep and historic attachments and alliances. The documentary Old South tells the story of two Southern communities steeped in history – one black and one white – that collide while striving to keep their respective legacies relevant in a changing America. Mary B. Martin School of the Arts at ETSU presents Old South with filmmaker Danielle Beverly as part of South Arts’ Southern Circuit Tour of Independent Filmmakers on Monday, March 16, at 7 p.m. in ETSU’s Martha Street Culp Auditorium. Following a screening of the film, producer and director Beverly will engage the audience in a discussion about the film and her work as a filmmaker. A reception with the filmmaker will follow. Film and reception are free and open to the public. When Kappa Alpha – the most elite of the white fraternities at the University of Georgia – buys and demolishes houses on one block in an historic African-American neighborhood to build a fraternity house, the black community be-
comes agitated. To further complicate the situation, Kappa Alpha’s “spiritual hero is Robert E. Lee, they hold an antebellum parade every year and they are historically known to fly the Confederate flag,” Beverly says. The arrival of the KAs galvanizes Hope, a 30-year-old fifth generation black funeral home director, to organize her neighbors to fight for historical designation of the 150-year-old neighborhood with the goal of slowing, if not thwarting, the path of gentrification of the community. When one conflict is resolved, a new struggle emerges through the arrival of an outsider: a white woman from Colorado. She starts a community vegetable garden, and it begins to become a location where the two groups can find some common ground. “What was initially a very contentious conflict and hurt-building collision between legacies, results, I’m happy to say, in is a bit of walking in each other’s shoes,” says Beverly, who moved to Athens and filmed there for more than three years. “The film has a bit of a hopeful ending, some under-
standing of one another. Hope is a change agent. And there is also a young man in a fraternity that becomes a change agent, as well.” The screening is also a part of the “Think. Live. Respect.” series, sponsored by ETSU’s Division of Student Affairs. The series is intended to spark thought and con-
versation all across campus this spring. “I think it’s important what we’re really talking about significant issues in this effort at ETSU this spring,” says Anita DeAngelis, director of Mary B. Martin School of the Arts. “The ‘Think. Live. Respect.’ Series is looking at how to
build bridges, how do we learn to live together, and appreciate one another rather than seeing so many differences, and I think that’s important. There again, that’s why I think this film is sig-
Legacy .....
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Page 10, The Loafer • March 10, 2015
Legacy ..... Continued from page 9
‘Cleaners & Clothes’ Donation Drive Goodwill partners with local Kingsport dry cleaners for donation drive
Looking to start your spring cleaning early? From March 1 to March 20, local Kingsport dry cleaners and Goodwill Industries of Tenneva are partnering together for a ‘Cleaners & Clothes’ clothing donation drive. Community members will be able to drop off their Goodwill clothing and linen donations to their local participating
dry cleaners. Hyatt Cleaners, The Cleaning Center, B&W Cleaners, Massey’s Cleaning and Mr. Cleaners are all participating in the clothing drive! Participants can bring their gently used clothing and linen items to any of the dry cleaners’ locations through the donation drive dates and Goodwill trucks will pick up
the items on March 20. Goodwill retail stores operate on the donations we receive from the communities that support our organization. The proceeds from the retail stores help fund our mission of providing employment service programs to individuals with a barrier to employment.
nificant and one that should be very important in our whole community and not just a particular group in the community.” The common ground found in Old South makes this story special, Beverly says. “While [the film is] a very quiet look at the racial dynamics that are happening on one block, it is emblematic of the racial dynamics that happen in many communities,” says the filmmaker who hails from the Midwest, “and there is some kind of hope and reconciliation by the end. That’s what I would say makes it so special … “Race is at the forefront of every conversation this year, and thank God! … We are looking at the dynamics of race and the injustices of race in a really concentrated way right now, and this film falls right into that because it really looks at the unspoken, the misunderstanding, between groups of people played out in everyday interaction and when we understand those interactions and those feelings at a base level, we somewhat start to understand the greater discussion that is going on. “Old South is a vehicle for discussion. It is a vehicle for recognition. And hopefully it is a vehicle for taking one step toward another person.” Beverly makes documentaries, often filming, recording sound, producing and directing as a solo filmmaker in the field, as she did with Old South. In 2014 she was awarded a BAVC National MediaMaker Fellowship for Old South. She was field producer for Rebirth over its 10year production. Her first feature,
Learning to Swallow, premiered at Silverdocs and toured with Southern Circuit in 2005. Beverly has received a Kohl Artists Fellowship, a Flaherty Seminar Fellowship and grants from the Paul Robeson Fund for Independent Media, the Lucius & Eva Eastman Fund, NYSCA and the Puffin Foundation. She also teaches documentary filmmaking (most recently at Marquette University and the University of Notre Dame) and works as a documentary cameraperson. For more information on the film and filmmaker, visit http://petuniaproductions.net. The Southern Circuit Tour of Independent Filmmakers is a program of South Arts. Southern Circuit screenings are funded in part by a grant from South Arts in partnership with the National Endowment for the Arts. South Arts, founded in 1975, is a nonprofit regional arts organization building on the South’s unique heritage and enhancing the public value of the arts. Their work responds to the arts environment and cultural trends with a regional perspective through an annual portfolio of activities designed to address the role of the arts in impacting the issues important to its region, and linking the South with the nation and the world through the arts. For information about the ETSU Mary B. Martin School of the Arts, call 423-439-TKTS (8587) or visit www.etsu.edu/martin. Please “Like” ETSU Mary B. Martin School of the Arts on Facebook and follow it on Twitter and Instagram @ArtsAtETSU.
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March 10, 2015 • The Loafer, Page 11
Theatre Bristol’s
“Rumpelstiltskin” Opens March 13,
Kicks Off 50th Season Theatre Bristol is proud to open its 50th anniversary season with the classic fairy tale “Rumpelstiltskin” on March 13 and running for three weekends in the ARTspace Theatre, 506 State Street, Bristol, TN. Once upon a time there was a dwarf named Rumpels... wait, you probably know that part already. This reimagining of the classic fairy tale features two strongwilled sisters: Anya, shy and romantic, and Ingrid, outspoken and sensible. When their widowed mother is once again victim to the judgments of others, she tells a tiny lie -- Anya can turn straw into gold. Soon, the story “spins” out of control when the King believes Anya is the reason their nation is out of money and demands she perform her special skill for the royal coffers. Mix in magical companions, mistaken identities, a short villain, and princess wannabes -- is this a recipe for disaster? Or happily ever after? It’s only fitting that the opening show of Theatre Bristol’s golden season is a story about spinning gold. It’s also fitting that directing the show will be long time Theatre Bristol veteran, Chris McVey. McVey has been a valuable friend to Theatre Bristol and the theatre community over the years as a talented and respected actor and director. Recently, McVey has directed Theatre Bristol’s 2013 production of “Anne of Green Gables, a New Musical” and 2014’s production of “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.” In the title role as Rumpelstiltskin is Hunter Johnson. Playing Anya Mueller is Rachel Locke, with Frau Mueller by Jane Bass, and Ingrid Meuller by Sara Harless. Jacob Alvis is King Rolfe. Minister North is played by Steve Baskett, and Minister South by Jerry Matthews. They are joined by Aunt Marta played by Lee Ann Hitch, Captain Tanner by Coy Owens, Sweeps by Abram Moore, Jughead by Rori Simmons, and Pansy by Olivia Ste-
vens. The South sisters are played by Katelyn Briggs (Sarah), Gracie Cunningham (Senta), Gabrielle Harman (Sigrid), Asha ParkerHolloway (Sonja), and Alayna Walker (Sally). Guide is played by Sarah Countiss, Frau Gudhoff by Mary Johnson, Frau Kinder by Terri McCall, and Frau Blixen by Cherry Stewart. The soldiers are Aaron Blankenship, Cody Wendt, Caleb Hale and Austin Blake. John Mullins plays Corporal Dern. The servants are Emmersyn Hardy, Molly Johnson, Grace Johnson, Hope Oliver, Carolyn Hitch, Mary Hitch, and Lucy Tester. Sarah McCall is assistant to director Chris McVey, and stage manager. Assistant stage manager is Sabrina Briggs and costumer is Coy Owens. Mike Musick is the producer. This show opens Friday, March 13, and runs three weekends: Fridays, March 13, 20, and 27 at 7:30 pm; Saturdays, March 14, 21, and 28 at 7:30 pm; and Sundays, March 15, 22, and 29 at 2:30 pm. Tickets can be reserved for Rumpelstiltskin by calling the ticket line at 383-5979. Please leave a message with the date you would like to attend; the number of reservations needed for adults, seniors, and students; name to contact; and telephone number. The reservation will be confirmed with a call and tickets held at the door. Founded in 1965, Theatre Bristol is the oldest continually running children’s theatre in northeast Tennessee and now celebrating its 50th season. Its Main Stage season consists of up to five productions. Some of its performances take place in the ARTspace, a multipurpose, black box theatre which seats up to 120. Theatre Bristol is entirely volunteer run and we invite you to get involved. For more information, visit the Theatre Bristol’s website or Facebook page, contact Theatre Bristol at 423-383-5979, or email info@theatrebristol.org.
March Madness for teens coming to MPCC
Join the gang at Memorial Park Community Center, 510 Bert St., on Friday, March 13 from 7-10 p.m. for March Madness. Watch basketball on the big screen and hang out
with friends. Enjoy a wing-eating contest, swimming, open run basketball, and more. This supervised event is open to ages 13-17. Admission is $3 per person.
For more information, please call Memorial Park Community Center at (423)434-5749.
Page 12, The Loafer • March 10, 2015
ETSU Celtic Bands to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day at Down Home Four Celtic music bands from East Tennessee State University will take the stage at the Down Home on Tuesday, March 17, in celebration of St. Patrick’s Day. Celtic music is a recent addition to the renowned Bluegrass, Old Time and Country Music Studies program within the Department of Appalachian Studies at ETSU. Members of ETSU’s Celtic bands have performed in Northern Ireland and Scotland, at the state capitol in Nashville and in many regional venues. Featured bands will include the ETSU Celtic Pride Band, the North Sea Ramblers, Antrim Road and Cork Town. The Celtic Pride Band is made up of ETSU students with extensive backgrounds in bluegrass, country and old time music who have been “swept away by the energy, beauty and creativity of
Celtic music,” according to Jane MacMorran, an award-winning fiddler who leads the Celtic music division and directs ETSU’s Appalachian, Scottish and Irish Studies program. Band members are professionallevel students, including Aynsley Porchak of Canada on fiddle, Kristy Wilkins of North Carolina on vocals, Avery Welter of Pennsylvania on guitar and mandolin and faculty member Will MacMorran on guitar. Antrim Road is comprised of fiddler Rheva Mhyre from Seattle and multi-instrumentalists Cameron Ragsdale and Meade Forsythe, both of Tennessee, who will play arrangements of traditional instrumental tunes. Members of the North Sea Ramblers, recently featured in a live taping of “Song of the Mountains” for Blue Ridge PBS, include
K.T. Van Dyke of Virginia on vocals, Jeff Ingersol of New York on guitar, Isaac Smith of Michigan on fiddle, and Tennesseans Angel Edgemon and Zach McCracken on bass and banjo, respectively. Through individual instruction and band classes, students of Celtic music at ETSU have the opportunity to explore the Celtic roots of the music of Southern Appalachia and the music of Scotland and Ireland. In addition to their music classes, they may take the study abroad course in Scotland and Ireland, “Scots Irish in Appalachia,” “Scotland’s Music,” “Scottish Ethnology” and a variety of history and literature courses. Students may also spend a semester studying at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland through a formal exchange agreement between RCS and ETSU. Celtic music workshops and
performances on the ETSU campus, sponsored by Bluegrass, Old Time and Country Music Studies, have featured Liz Carroll, John Doyle, Kevin Burke and the Celtic Fiddle Festival. Showtime is 8 p.m. Admission is $12 for the general public and $8
for students with ID. The Down Home is located at 300 W. Main St. For more information, contact Bluegrass, Old Time and Country Music Studies at 423-439-7072 or bluegrass@etsu.edu, or call the Down Home at 423-929-9822.
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March 10, 2015 • The Loafer, Page 13
WORLD PREMIERE PLAY BEGINS AT BARTER “The Gnome,” By Award Winning Playwright, Begins Showing at Barter Stage II
Isaac Rathbone’s, “The Gnome,” winner of Barter’s 2014 Appalachian Festival of Plays and Playwrights, will premiere on Barter’s Stage II on March 13. “The Gnome” is a modern-day fairy tale about a down-on-hisluck All-Mart employee named Barry who finds a magical, wishgranting gnome poking out of the snow in early March. Barry is a divorcee living with his brother and his sister-in-law. This tale of family, wishes, greed and magic begins, but where will he wind up after the gnome starts granting wishes? Eugene Wolf, the director of “The Gnome,” said, “We make choices that seem inconsequential, yet end up totally changing the path we thought was right. Sometimes we need a little help from a Yvonne (Carrie Smith Lewis), Barry (Nicholas Piper) and Billy (Justin Tyler Lewis) ponder the gnome Barry has found
friend, or help from a little friend.” In “The Gnome,” Barry is definitely in need of some help from his new found little friend. The mythology of the gnome is not unlike the folklore of genies and leprechauns which is rich and deep, but as Wolf says, “their mythology has been cemented in yard art. ‘The Gnome’ explores what happens when we take them out of the yard and invite them into our lives.” Hannah Ingram, who plays Kerri said, “’The Gnome’ is such a funny little play that just makes you want to find out what happens next!” Isaac Rathbone is a Brooklyn, New York based playwright specializing in works that explore lesser-known events and people that highlight the American iden-
tity. Rathbone has previously written historical plays including: “Captain Ferguson’s School for Balloon Warfare,” “Undeclared History,” and “The March of the Bonus Army.” The cast of “The Gnome” will include Nicholas Piper as Barry, Justin Tyler Lewis as Billy, Carrie Smith Lewis as Yvonne and Hannah Ingram as Kerri. There will also be a radio voiceover by Nick Koesters. “The Gnome” is made possible by corporate sponsor Big Weenie Productions. The Barter Theatre is funded in part by the Virginia Commission for the Arts and the National Endowment for the Arts.
Page 14, The Loafer • March 10, 2015
Appalachian in of southern roo grass. Their 201 seen this young Steep Canyon R grass standard at one of acous music.net. Show early and enjoy us out on Faceb
Performing 8pm on Sunday March 15th at The Acoustic Coffeehouse in Johnson City, Tennessee is Pressing Strings, a soulstirring trio based out of Annapolis, Maryland. This will be their first excursion to the area but, having played with such notable acts as the Beach Boys, Sam Roberts Band, Cayucas, The Wailers, Jimmie’s Chicken Shack and Passafire, they’re no amateurs. Their music is a patchwork of styles, with influences that span generations and genres, including American roots music, blues, funk, folk and reggae. Nevertheless there’s cohesion; a round, fullness to their sound that is original yet reassuringly familiar. The band is led Jorden Sokel, who has been described as ‘one of the most gifted singer-songwriters to have emerged from the [Annapolis] area in years’ (Bob Waugh, Program Director 103.1 WRNR). Sokel’s distinctive voice, searing and sweet, immediately captures your attention. The lyrics are poetic, the melodies soulful, drawing you in deeper. Nick Welker on Fender bass VI lays down the groove and fills out the harmony, and drummer Brandon Bartlett rewards you with some truly inspired rhythms that dare you to resist the dance floor. For a taste of what this band is all about, take a look at their website, pressingstrings.com or check them out on ReverbNation, reverbnation/pressingstrings. Their new record “Owe the Source” is to be released March 24th but pre-release copies will be available specially for audiences on this tour.
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March 10, 2015 • The Loafer, Page 15
Bone Fire smokehouse continues to bring some of the regions best music to its stage. This Thursday, March 12th, Rising stars Mipso will returning to the smokehouse. After a year of hundreds of concerts across the country, the renegade traditionalists of Mipso keep to the road in 2015. Mipso — comprised of Chris Austin Songwriting Award winner Joseph Terrell on guitar, Jacob Sharp on mandolin, Libby Rodenbough on fiddle, and Wood Robinson on upright bass — are taking four-part harmony and nfluences into brand new territory. INDY Week heralded the band’s role in the reemergence ots music, crediting Mipso with “expanding the vocabulary of common touchstones” for blue13 release, Dark Holler Pop, debuted at #8 on the Billboard bluegrass chart. The past year has g band share stages with four-time Grammy winner David Holt, the recently Grammy-honored Rangers, Chris Eldridge, Chatham County Line, and Mandolin Orange. They’ve played blueds at 30,000 feet, sold out Chapel Hill’s 1,400-seat Memorial Hall, and been invited to perform stic music’s most revered festivals, Merlefest, in April 2015. You can check them out at mipsow starts at 8pm. Bone Fire is located at 260 West Main St in beautiful Abingdon, Va. Get there y the region’s best BBQ. For more info about Bone Fire and their music line up, you can check book.
Spotlight Directory Acoustic Coffeehouse 415 W Walnut St. Johnson City 423/434.9872 Biggies Clam Bar 417 W Stone Dr Kingsport 423/765-9633 Bob Evans Restaurant 2801 Boones Creek Rd Johnson City 423/282-0162 Bone Fire Smokehouse at the Hardware 260 W Main St Abingdon Va 276/623-0037 Bristol’s Pickin’ Porch 620 State St Bristol Tn 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 David Thompson’s Produce 251 Highway 107 Jonesborough 423/913-8123 The Harvest Table Restaurant 13180 Meadowview Sq Meadowview Va 276/944-5140 Holiday Inn (Exit 7) 3005 Linden Dr Bristol Va 276/466-4100
Mad Greek Restaurant 2010 Franklin Terrace Johnson City 423/328-9070 Old South 601 Spring St Johnson City 423/929-3663 O’Mainnin’s Pub 712 State St Bristol 423/844-0049 The Mecca Lounge 117 Spring St Johnson City 423/928-9360 The Outdoorsman 4535 Highway 11W Kingsport Renaissance Center 1200 E Center St Kingsport 423/392-8415 Rush Street 1229 E Stone Dr Kingsport 423/247-3184 Show Palace 14364 Lee Hwy Bristol Va 276/494-6610 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 Tn Woodstone Deli 3500 Fort Henry Dr Kingsport 423/245-5424
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Nimoy’s Spock Character Among Other Sci-Fi Icons
Many people are associated with outer space, and the death of actor Leonard Nimoy makes us aware of the iconic heroes of the Space Age. With Nimoy also passes Spock, as who else could play the Vulcan science officer of the Enterprise. His best friend and commander James Kirk is also another legend of the science fiction genre, played by versatile actor William Shatner. The three-season TV show “Star Trek” certainly spawned enthusiasm for the space travel, but the show took on themes of the times of those turbulent 1960s and ‘70s. And much of the show’s political statements were uttered by the alien from planet Vulcan, Spock. But he’s not alone in fiction or real life for Space Age heroes. Here’s a few of my own: • Flash Gordon in the 1930s played by Buster Crabbe as earthlings battle Emperor Ming on the planet Mongo. • Buck Rogers in the 1950s, also played by Crabbe and others as a 20th Century football player swept into space tra vels of the 25th Cen-
tury to chase the bad guys in the Galaxy. • Doctor Who, the whacky British time traveler who since 1963 has used a spaceship disguised as a police box. • John Carter of Mars and the novels of Barsoom, written since 1912 out of the mind of Edgar Rice Burroughs, who brought us Tarzan • Superman. The Baby Boomers will swear by George Reeves as the Man of Steel in the famous 1950s television series. And the Steve Reeves series of movies of the 1970s did justice to the super spaceman. • Valentine Michael Smith, a human raised by Martians who returns to experience Earth’s culture in the Robert Heinlein classic “Stranger in a Strange Land.” Michael groked a lot about Earth, and had some adult fun. • Dr. Dave Bowman (actor Keir Dullea) of “2001: A Space Odyssey” (1968) and his voyage to Jupiter, and Commander John Adams (Leslie Nielson) of “Forbidden Planet” (1956). These two protagonists are in similar struggles
against man’s ego and id, encountering unseen foes and alien mysteries. • John Glenn, the first American to orbit the Earth and maybe last of the Great American Heroes. He is in his 90s and when he passes, the world will know again of this great astronaut, capable US Senator and all round nice guy. • And many more Space Age icons like first moonwalker Neil Armstrong, cartoon space man George Jetson and the nine-foot aliens who eat humans from the Twilight Zone’s most famous episode, “To Serve Man.” The man who portrayed the famous alien Spock was much more than an actor and artist. Nimoy’s 83 years on Earth were blessed with a solid acting career and accomplished photography skills. He specialized in portraits and fine art nudes. On the magic of photography, Nimoy said: “My dream concept is that I have a camera and I am trying to photograph what is essentially invisible. And every once in a while I get a glimpse of her and I grab that picture.” Nimoy also supported astronomy endeavors, including donating $1 million to the iconic Griffith Observatory in Los Angeles, featured in many movies like the 1950s classic “Rebel Without a Cause.” The Leonard Nimoy Event Horizon Auditorium is a much needed educational facility now utilized by the astronomy staff at Griffith Observatory. Not just Hollywood, but NASA mourned the Feb. 27, 2015 passing of Nimoy. The sci-fi classic served as an inspiration for many at NASA over the years, and Nimoy joined other cast members at
special NASA events and worked to promote NASA missions with voice over work on many videos. Nimoy also was there for the 1976 rollout of the earth-bound, test shuttle Enterprise, named for the show’s iconic spacecraft. NASA Administrator Charles Bolden issued the following statement upon hearing of Nimoy’s passing: “Leonard Nimoy was an inspiration to multiple generations of engineers, scientists, astronauts, and other space explorers. As Mr. Spock, he made science and technology important to the story, while never failing to show, by example, that it is the people around us who matter most. NASA was fortunate to have him as a friend and a colleague. He was much more than the Science Officer for the USS Enterprise. Leonard was a talented actor, director, philanthropist, and a gracious man dedicated to art in many forms. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and the legions of Star Trek fans around the world.” But the legend of Leonard Nimoy (Spock) still lives on. “Live Long and Prosper”, this was one of the most famous quotes of Spock from “Star Trek” episodes. Here are some other famous quotes and moments we’ll always remember from Spock: “I have been, and always shall
be, your friend.” “This troubled planet is a place of the most violent contrasts. Those who receive the rewards are totally separated from those who shoulder the burdens. It is not a wise leadership.” “May I say that I have not thoroughly enjoyed serving with Humans? I find their illogic and foolish emotions a constant irritant.” “I’ve never understood the female capacity to avoid a direct answer to any question.” “Change is the essential process of all existence.” Here’s a bit of philosophy about all artwork from the very human Leonard Nimoy: “Art, if it is successful, needs no explanation. Star Trek and Spock, if they are works of art, can be discussed. But finally the response comes in individual terms. Each viewer sees what is there for him, depending on his frame of reference.” And finally a comment by Nimoy about spreading good karma: “I’m touched by the idea that when we do things that are useful and helpful — collecting these shards of spirituality — that we may be helping to bring about a healing.” May we all prosper in the mystery of our life’s final frontier?
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Celestial events in the skies for the week of Mar. 10 - Mar. 16, 2015 as compiled for The Loafer by Mark D. Marquette. We are now under daylight “shifted” time where an hour has been taken from the morning and added to the evening. Daylight lasts until about 7:30 pm, but it’s dark in the morning again until 7:45 am. And all around us the tough, barren landscape is ready to spring to life as the equinox is just two weeks away.
Tues. March 10
Venus is the brightest “star” in the west after sunset, and in the east nothing it brighter than planet Jupiter. In between is a winter drama of constellations that is coming to a close as the stars of spring are heralded by Jupiter.
Wed. March 11
Planet Mars pokes through the evening twilight at around 8 pm and sets an hour later. Unseen to our eyes is the seventh planet Uranus, less than a half a Moon diameter to the lower left of the Red Planet (at the 7 o’clock position). You can see Uranus with binoculars as a star, and with a backyard telescope you can detect a small, greenish disk.
Thurs. March 12
The Sun enters the constellation Pisces; at least that’s what the facts are, contrary to the fake science of astrology—which erroneously has the Sun entering the Fishes three weeks earlier on Feb. 23.
Fri. March 13
The Moon is Last Quarter in the domain of the after-midnight skies. On this 1781date in space history, William Herschel discovered the sixth planet Uranus from the backyard observatory in his mansion in Bath, England. The planet had been plotted on star charts more than a dozen times before by other astronomers who thought it was a star. Herschel was the greatest telescopic astronomer to just use his eyes, discovering thousands of double stars, nebula, galaxies and star clusters—though the exact nature of these objects would await photography, pioneered by his son, John.
Sat. March 14
Happy 81st birthday to the last man on the Moon, Gene Cernan. He climbed the ladder of his moonship Challenger to join moon mate Jack Schmitt on December 13, 1972, leaving the last human footprints, so far, on an alien world.
Sun. March 15
The Ides of March. In 200 BC ancient Rome, March was the first month of a 10-month, 355-day year and the “Ides” was a term for a full Moon. The Ides of March was the first Full Moon of the year, a time when lots of Roman politics began and business in the republic was kick started. It was on March 15, 44 BC when “Emperor for Life” Julius Caesar, 56, was assassinated by Roman Senators fearing his power.
Mon. March 16
Jupiter is high in the east on the border of Cancer the Crab and Leo the Lion. It is the brightest object in the sky after Venus sets, and is an amazing object to observe in a telescope as the cloud tops we see change throughout the night.
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Recruiting Now For CASA Advocacy Training
Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of Northeast Tennessee will provide volunteer advocacy training beginning with Orientation on April 21 at 5:30pm. We will meet at the CASA office, 603 E. Market St., Johnson City, TN 37604. This will be an information session for people interested in speaking up for the best interest of children in their community. Mark your calendars for this very informative session about your local CASA organization and how you can help! Currently serving the Juvenile Courts of Washington, Unicoi and Greene counties and the Juvenile Court of Johnson City, CASA volunteers become the voice in court for abused and neglected children. “CASA gives me an opportunity to help children who cannot help themselves. Children are our most important resources, and we need to cultivate them. Lots of children have very hard lives. If I can make the life of one child better, that is a blessing for me.” Frankie Wolff, CASA Volunteer since March 2009. The training will prepare individuals to become advocates for children, allowing them to participate
in court appointed cases. “I know the amount of time I invest in each case is very much appreciated by the judges and attorneys. They respect our insight and it helps with the judgment determination. It is a huge responsibility but I also know that I truly am making a difference in a child’s well-being.” Vickie Hungate, CASA Volunteer. CASA serves hundreds of local children and can only hope to serve hundreds more with the help of more volunteers. Our goal is for each child caught in the court system at no fault of their own to
have an advocate. On average advocates spend 10-15 hours per month on a case. The training will prepare individuals to become advocates for CASA, allowing them to participate in court appointed cases and to “speak up” for an abused and neglect child. If interested in learning more about CASA or to apply for the training sessions, contact Lauren Pealor or Emily Tester, Volunteer Coordinators, at 423-461-3500, email pealor@casanetn.org or tester@casanetn.org or visit the website at http://www.casanetn.org.
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Flying Pig Gallery & Studios featuring a special show by Wesley Venable
Transitions - Art is Life
Flying Pig Gallery & Studios is featuring Wes Venable as their artist of the month for March 2015. His show, Transitions - Art is Life, will be exhibited through the end of the month with an artist reception on Friday March 13th from 5-7 pm. It is free and open to the public. Flying Pig Gallery & Studios is located at the corner of Center St and Broad St in Downtown Kingsport. Transitions – Art is Life will showcase Wes’s art from 2002 through today. Wes grew up in Kingsport, just over the “ridge” this side of Indian Springs. His childhood ambition was to be an architect. His father had taken up darkroom photography for a short time in his early childhood and Wes became fascinated with photography. By the time he was thirteen he had his own darkroom. He made photos for the yearbook in high school, and after a bit of indecision, Wes settled on photography as a college major. His focus began to change from photography to painting but he couldn’t quite let go of photography. In those days, he experimented with combining the two mediums,
photography and painting. Over the next ten years Wes would have four different jobs, (including painting full time in a gallery on Broad Street in Kingsport) get married and have a child. In 2003 he began working with his brother at his dad’s trucking company in Kingsport. His art has continued to develop and still incorporates elements of photography sometimes as source, sometimes as subject, and sometimes as medium. According to Wes “My work begins as an idea. Much as representational art seeks to mimic nature, I try to represent an idea or ideology with icons, elements of pop culture, or snips of the media. Sometimes a pun is a good stepping off point. While I’m not trying to make religious or political statements, no subject is off limits. Art is life.” Flying Pig Gallery and Studios,246 Broad Street, (corner of Center Street and Broad Street), Kingsport, TN. For more information visit www.EngageKingsport.com or call (423)392-8414.
Students of East Tennessee State University’s Roan Scholars Leadership Program are hosting the Red Bus Project from 11:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on Monday, March 16, and on Tuesday, March 17, from 9:30 a.m. until
3:30 p.m. A red double-decker bus will be parked near the Amphitheatre in the Pedestrian Mall each day, serving as a mobile thrift shop. The public is invited to stop by the bus with clothes to donate or to shop for clothes already on the bus. The Red Bus Project raises funds to assist orphans around the world in their quest to find permanent families. Last year, ETSU had one of the largest turnouts in terms of buyers and most items donated. Learn more at Facebook.com/ETSUredbusproject and Twitter.com/ETSURedBUS or contact James Grindstaff at grindstaffj@ goldmail.etsu.edu.
The Red Bus is coming!
Page 20, The Loafer • March 10, 2015
Abingdon celebrates St. Patrick’s Day
with the annual Shamrock 4 Miler and Leprechaun Walk Friday March 13th: Race begins at 7:00pm, after party at 7:30pm
The annual Shamrock 4 Miler and Leprechaun Walk benefiting Johnston Memorial Hospital Foundation is set for Friday, March 13, 2015, at 7 p.m. At 7:30pm, racers and their friends and family are invited to the after party sponsored by Abingdon Music Experience. The 4-mile race follows a course through downtown Abingdon, beginning and ending at the Market Pavilion on Remsburg Drive. For those who would prefer an easier course, the 1.3-mile Leprechaun Walk begins at the same time. Immediately after the race, an after party will be held at the Market Pavilion, featuring local band Annabelle’s Curse. Abingdon Main Street will host a beer garden for those 21 and up, and local food vendors Toni’s Hawaiian Tacos and JJ’s Sports Bar & Grill will be on hand. The after party is free and open to the public. All proceeds from the race benefit the JMH Foundation, which helps to fund needed equipment, supplies and programs for Johnston Memorial Hospital. Last year, the
third year of the event, more than 775 people participated and over $9,000 was raised for patient needs at JMH. After the race, snacks for racers will be provided by sponsor Food Country USA. Title and Platinum race sponsors include CrestPoint Health, Johnston Memorial Hospital, the Town of Abingdon and Valley Emergency Physicians. Sponsors for the after party are Eastman Credit Union, Ecological Energy Systems, Universal Fibers, and Walling Distributing, with the beer tent sponsored by Abingdon Main Street. Participants can pre-register for the race through 10 p.m., Thursday, March 12, at www. werunevents.com. The discounted early registration fee for the Shamrock run is $25 for adult runners and $15 for runners under age 12. Pre-registration for the 1.3-mile Leprechaun Walk is $15 for participants of all ages. Late registration for both events and packet pick-up for pre-registered participants will be held prior to the race from 3 to 6:30 p.m. at the Abingdon Farmers’ Market. Day of registration fees are $30 for adult runners, $15 for runners under 12, and $20 for all walkers. To register for the race, visit www.werunevents.com. For more information on the funds raised, visit www.johnsonmemorial.org/johnson-memorial-hospital-foundation. For more information on the after party, visit www. abingdonmusicexperience.com or contact Special Events Coordinator Sara Saavedra Cardinale at (276) 676-2282.
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In Theaters Now
Box Office Top 10 Fifty Shades of Grey (2015) lives on the battlefield and turns
The Lazarus Effect In my opinion horror films are often “hit or miss” affairs. You can have a film with an amazing concept that falls flat, while another horror film will come as a pleasant surprise. The new film “The Lazarus Effect” falls somewhere in between, and is described as supernatural horror. The story involves a team of ambitious medical professionals whose project is to bring dead patients back to life right after they pass. The medical team includes Olivia Wilde as Zoe, and Evan Peters of “American Horror Story” fame as Clay. After several failed attempts, the team has successfully created a serum, code-named “Lazarus”, which has brought a dead dog back to life. As one might expect, the results are not good. Yes, while the dog reverts back to a healthy state, the animal rarely eats, and has developed some unusual brain patterns. Oh my. After discovering what the team has succeeded in doing, the university where the research is being done, decides the project must be shut down and all the data confiscated. The action of the university does not bode well with our team, and as characters would do in a movie, break into the lab in order to complete more experiments. However, while conducting a test, one of the researchers is killed in an accident. No sooner than you can say Frankenstein, the team lead, Frank (Mark Duplass) is attempting to bring his co-worker back to life. While the team member is brought back from the dead, she appears to be auditioning to become a member of the Kardashian family. You know, blank stares, while looking flawless. Well, as flawless as you can look when being revived from the dead. Our newly revived researcher soon develops the types of abilities which could lead her to
Literature student Anastasia Steele’s life changes forever when she meets handsome, yet tormented, billionaire Christian Grey.
him into a legend. Back home to his wife and kids after four tours of duty, however, Chris finds that it is the war he can’t leave behind.
Kingsman: The Secret Service (2014)
Hot Tub Time Machine 2 (2015)
A spy organization recruits an unrefined, but promising street kid into the agency’s ultra-competitive training program, just as a global threat emerges from a twisted tech genius.
The SpongeBob Movie: Sponge Out of Water (2015)
When a diabolical pirate above the sea steals the secret Krabby Patty formula, SpongeBob and his nemesis Plankton must team up in order to get it back.
When Lou finds himself in trouble, Nick and Jacob fire up the hot tub time machine in an attempt to get back to the past. But they inadvertently land in the future with Adam Jr. Now they have to alter the future in order to save the past - which is really the present.
Jupiter Ascending (2015)
In a bright and colorful future, a young destitute caretaker gets targeted by the ruthless son of a powerful family, who lives on a planet in need of a new heir, so she travels with a genetically engineered McFarland, USA (2015) warrior to the planet in order to A cross country coach in a small stop his tyrant reign. California town transforms a team of athletes into championship conThe Imitation Game (2014) tenders. During World War II, mathematician Alan Turing tries to crack the The DUFF (2015) enigma code with help from felA high school senior instigates a low mathematicians. social pecking order revolution after finding out that she has been labeled the DUFF (Designated Paddington (2014) Ugly Fat Friend) to her prettier A young Peruvian bear travels to London in search of a home. more popular friends. Finding himself lost and alone at Paddington Station, he meets the American Sniper (2014) kindly Brown family, who offer Navy SEAL sniper Chris Kyle’s him a temporary haven. pinpoint accuracy saves countless
become a member of the X-Men. Alas, no superhero team is to be found, so our special powered miss is left to torture her fellow researchers. After a flashback reveals a major secret from the past, the film ends with a surprising twist. I found the actors to be fine, given what they had to work with, and they helped raise the movie above mediocre. “The Lazarus Effect” did cause
me to jump in my seat several times, always a good sign in a horror movie. I’m sure the ending is setting up for a sequel, but if the movie meets with tepid box office, this possible franchise will be dead on arrival, and no amount of “Lazarus serum” will help.
Rated PG-13
C+
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Jazz Musician Wendel Werner To Give Benefit Performance at Acoustic Coffeehouse
Well-known jazz pianist and frequent performer at the Acoustic Coffeehouse will give a benefit performance on Friday, March 13 at 8pm. The benefit will be held in honor of the Burns family, whose home and contents were destroyed by fire a number of weeks ago. Attendees are encouraged to bring pots and pans, small appliances, linens, and other household goods for donation. Monetary or gift card donations would be appreciated as well. Wendel Werner is a resident of Knoxville, TN and has played the local jazz scene for many years. He has also composed for several artists, and has taught in the past at the collegiate level. He is an engaging speaker and an even more engaging artist. For more information, visit www.wendelpiano.com or contact Marketing Director, Amber White: amber.white0725@gmail. com
Beverly Horton & the Turkey Creek Band
at Carter Family Fold Saturday, Mar. 14th Saturday, March 14th, 2015, at 7:30 p.m. the Carter Family Fold in Hiltons, Virginia, will present a concert of bluegrass music by Beverly Horton & the Turkey Creek Band. Adult admission to the concert is $10, $1 for children 6 to 11, and under age 6 free. The Turkey Creek Band features Tom Horton on guitar and lead vocals, Beverly Horton on upright bass and lead and harmony vocals, Mark Marshall on banjo, Eric McMurray on mandolin and vocals, David Chrisley on bass, and Daniel Greeson on fiddle. Standard bluegrass and bluegrass gospel tunes are their specialty. Artists whose material they cover include the Osborne Brothers, Rhonda Vincent, and Alison Krauss. You can be sure there will be lots of dance tunes and some outstanding vocals. There will be plenty of fiddle tunes for the dancers. For an evening of enjoyable, traditional bluegrass don’t miss the Turkey Creek Band at the Carter Family Fold! Don’t forget your
dancing shoes! Carter Family Memorial Music Center, Incorporated, is a nonprofit, rural arts organization established to preserve traditional, acoustic, mountain music. For further information on the center, go to http://www. carterfamilyfold.org. Shows from the Carter Family Fold can be accessed on the internet a http://www.carterfoldshow.com. Carter Music Center is part of the Crooked Road: Virginia’s Heritage Music Trail. You can visit the Crooked Road Music Trail site at http://thecrookedroad.org. Partial funding for programs at the center is provided by the Virginia Commission for the Arts and the National Endowment for the Arts. For recorded information on shows coming up at the Fold, call 276-386-6054. The Fold is on Facebook – page Carter Fold – and Twitter – Twitter @carterfoldinfo. To speak to a Fold staff member, call 276-5940676.
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The Yates Family Band and Changing Lanes Featured at Heartwood
The Crooked Road: Virginia’s Heritage Music Trail presents the Yates Family Band and Changing Lanes in concert on Thursday, March 12th from 6:30 to 8:00 PM at Heartwood in Abingdon, VA. The concert is part of The Crooked Road’s Youth Music Series. The Yates Family Band features Molly Yates (age 14) performing on guitar and mandolin and Sadie Yates (age 12) performing on dojo (half banjo, half dulcimer) and bass. The girls have been on stage with their parents, Tim (guitar) and Debbie (banjo), since early
Photo by: Tabatha Norman ages. A family based old time and bluegrass band from Smyth County, VA, the group has performed at regional festivals and including the Konnorack Fall Festival and the Whitetop Festival. Changing Lanes is a bluegrass band from Carroll County, VA, that has been performing live together for three years. Their members include Jesse Allen (guitar and vocals), Alan Young (banjo, mandolin and vocals) and Ethan Edwards (banjo, mandolin, and vocals). The band has performed their unique blend of traditional
and contemporary arrangements to high acclaim at festivals and venues throughout the region. The Crooked Road Music Series features youth music performers and showcases venues of the Crooked Road region. These events, along with open jams on the 1st, 3rd, (and 5th) Thursday of every month, are hosted at Heartwood. A complete schedule for the music series is available on The Crooked Road website at www.thecrookedroad.org and at www.heartwoodvirginia.org. The music series is sponsored by The
Crooked Road, Heartwood, Virginia Commission for the Arts and the National Endowment for the Arts. Heartwood: Southwest Virginia’s Artisan Gateway is located off I-81 at Exit 14 in Abingdon, VA, and features food, music, and craft of Southwest Virginia. Admission to the concert is free and donations will be accepted for Crooked Road Traditional Music Education Program (TMEP). For more information on The Crooked Road Music Series call (276) 492-2409 or email: info@thecrookedroad.org.
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March 10, 2015 • The Loafer, Page 25
The Ink Anther Robert Osborne was on Gilbert Gottfried’s podcast. Yes, Mr. USA Up All Night has a podcast, and it’s quite good. Towards the end of the podcast, Gottfried asked the king of TCM what three movies would be his desert island films. One of the films Osborne chose is a longtime favorite of mine, a film that I tend to watch when the snow appears en mass as it has lately. The movie is 1963’s “The Pink Panther.” The whole series of “Pink Panther” films were staples of my childhood, thanks to when I was handed a VHS tape that my mother bought from Avon—back when you could get movies from Avon—of “Return of The Pink Panther.” In those pre-internet, pre-netflix days, movies sometimes just appeared out of no where. Maybe chalk it up to being a child with an overactive imagination (I know, shocking, right?) but there was something kind of strange and mysterious about these films that would just sometimes appear. “Willy Wonka and The Chocolate Factory” was another one of those films, and it induced a life-long love of Gene Wilder. The same happened with “Return of The Pink Panther,” it created a life-long love for Peter Sellers. I began to watch as many Peter Sellers films as I could get my hands on, and most of the Pink Panther series was at my local video store to rent. I watched them all, I still like “Returns” and “The Pink Panther Strikes Again” very much. However, the two best films are the first one, and the second “A Shot In The Dark.” Yet my favorite out of all the Panther films is that first one, and it remains one of my most favorite films. It’s funny how films can create strange switcharoos during production, and that’s what happened with “The Pink
Panther.” Originally set to be a vehicle for David Niven, as a sophisticated gentleman cat burglar, in what Niven had hopped might be a new series of films for him similar to those of “The Thin Man” series, all of that changed when original actor casted to play Inspector Jacques Clouseau dropped out. Peter Ustinov had been cast, but with mere weeks for the film to begin production, he was quickly replaced with Peter Sellers. Sellers turned Clouseau from a background part, into the breakout lead of the film. Most of what one associates with the Clouseau character is missing from this film, the exaggerated accent is gone, and the bumbling is there, but not quite as much as you’d see in the later films. But why is it I like to break this
one out on the wintry days? All the snow. The whole film is largely set in an Italian ski resort village— and it was shot on location in and outside of Rome. The script is smart and witty, the film is loaded with beautiful scenery and a perfect Henry Mancini soundtrack. Frankly, it’s on my desert island list too. I could watch “The Pink Panther” and never tire of it. If you need to know some plot to make you wish to watch this film, it’s all centered around a famed Pink Panther Diamond, so called because it has a flaw that, when held to light, causes the appearance of a cat inside. There’s a princess who owns the diamond, kidnapping attempts, snow, drinking, bubble baths, and Peter Sellers. Rent the damn movie and thank me later. See you next week.
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DRESS ..... Continued from page 4 brain.” These processes not only account for why we can have trouble discerning the color of a dress but also why we are stumped by magic tricks and can so easily fall prey to pickpockets and other deceivers, including promoters, ghost hunters, and politicians. After you read this, you will literally never see magic (and life) the same way again. DRUNK TANK PINK: AND OTHER UNEXPECTED FORCES THAT SHAPE HOW WE THINK, FEEL, AND BEHAVE (2013) is marketing professor Adam Alter’s take on how profoundly our perceptions are based on our environments—just like our color perceptions of the dress are shaped by the background lighting of each respective picture and where we happen to be when we view those pictures. After presenting some really engaging case studies, ranging from the color that works best in jail holding rooms to the conditions that will elicit the best response from donors, Alter offers us a rather sobering conclusion: “These studies tell us something profound and perhaps a bit disturbing about what makes us who
we are: there isn’t a single version of ‘you’”. “You,” as it turns out, is as much a product of environment as it is of biology. I’m pretty certain the Impressionists would agree with that observation. If you can cram one more book into your bookshelf, I suggest it be Max H. Bazerman’s THE POWER OF NOTICING: WHAT THE BEST LEADERS SEE (2014). Although aimed primarily at the business world, this book is an ideal companion to the ones mentioned above, and is filled with some very interesting and often amusing anecdotes that show how limited—but yet capable of being improved--our powers of perception really are. Black and blue or white and gold? As you can see, what started out as yet another silly, shallow, and meaningless piece of social media fluff is really quite profound. Here’s hoping you will start looking at things from a different perspective this week. And keep in mind that what you see is not always what you get. See you (in one form or the other) next week
Arts Array presents The Arts Array Film Series presented by Virginia Highlands Community College is in its 44th year. All films are presented at the Abingdon Cinemall on Mondays and Tuesdays at 4 p.m. and again at 7:30 pm. Laggies (March 16 and 17) Overeducated and underemployed, 28 year old Megan is in the throes of a quarter-life crisis. Squarely into adulthood with no career prospects, no particular motivation to think about her future, and no one to relate to, Megan is comfortable lagging a few steps behind - while her friends check off milestones and celebrate their new grown-up status. When her high-school sweetheart proposes, Megan panics and – given an unexpected opportunity to escape for a week – hides out in the home of her new friend. The Arts Array Film Series is part of the comprehensive cultural outreach program of Virginia Highlands Community College.
“Laggies”
The series is co-sponsored by the Abingdon Cinemall, the Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center, Emory& Henry College, and King University. Admission to the films is free for the faculties and students at the
supporting institutions. Members of the general community may attend for $7.75. For a brochure on the series or more information, please contact Tommy Bryant at 276-739-2451 or email him at tbryant@vhcc.edu.
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March 10, 2015 • The Loafer, Page 27
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