theloaferonline.com | March 7, 2017
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Volume 31 • Issue #14 Publisher Luci Tate
on the cover Pie Wars A New Dough
Editor Graphic Arts Director Don Sprinkle Cover Design Bill May Advertising Dave Carter Patti Barr Shawn Hale Paul Kavanaugh
Distribution Jerry Hanger Teresa Hanger Published by Pulse Publishing, LLC., P.O. Box 3238, Johnson City, TN 37602 Phone: 423/283-4324 FAX - 423/283-4369 www.theloaferonline.com info@theloaferonline.com e-mail: editorial@theloaferonline.com adcopy@theloaferonline.com All advertisements are accepted and published by the publisher upon the representation that the agency and/ or advertiser is authorized to publish the entire contents and subject matter thereof. The agency and/or advertiser will indemnify and save the publisher harmless from any loss of expense resulting from claims or suits based upon contents of any advertisement, including claims or suits for defamation, libel, right of privacy, plagiarism, and copyright infringement.
Founder: Bill Williams Let’s Get Social!
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Stargazer Space Center Is Definition Of Amazing Skies This Week Batteries Not Included How To Recover From The Crud Pop Life Get Out Appalachian Wanderers Gateway Westward The Casual Word Word of Mouth Mountain Movers The Jeff Lane Interview Puzzle Page Kelly’s Place A Question Of Pop Culture
your week’s line-up
Contributing Staff Jim Kelly Andy Ross Ken Silvers Mark Marquette Brian McManus Brian Bishop Daniel Worley Jason Worley Langley Shazor Matt Messer
columns & reviews
Office Coordinator Amanda Lane
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Pie Wars The 39 Steps Spring Workshops & Seminars Call To Artists Rob Ickes & Trey Hensley in Concert Music Video Shoot Miss Ellie String Band Race For The Cure Mind-Body-Writing Workshop Shenanigans @ LampLight Zachary's Opens On State Street Morehead State Mtn Music Ambassadors "1964" . . . The Tribute Guitar Extraordinaire Storm Spotters Training Spotlight Who's The Funniest? Pets Of The Week Things To Do
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fter a three year hiatus, Pie Wars is back! Join the Young Professionals of the Tri-Cities for a night of pizza, craft beer, and fundraising. All proceeds from Pie Wars: A New Dough will benefit the Boys and Girls Club of Johnson City/Washington County. Participating pizza parlors will compete for Best Overall, Best Cheese Pizza, Best Pepperoni Pizza and Best Crust....YOU get to decide which pie reigns supreme. Each ticket includes: Pizza from all participating pizzerias, 3 beers, and a voting slip. Join us for this family-friendly event for the community! Tea & water also provided. Tickets: $15 for YPTri members / $20 in advance / $25 at the door Children 5 and under – free / Children 5 and up $10 Participating Pizzerias: Mellow Mushroom, Rocks Wood Fired Pizza, Scratch Pizza, Luke's Pizza, Pizza N Gyro, Pie Five, Fox's Pizza Den, Main Street Pizza Company.
Pie Wars
Thursday, March 23 6:30 - 9pm at The Venue 300 E. Main street. Johnson City Tickets available at www.eventbrite.co
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n every community, boys and girls are left to find their own recreation and companionship in the streets. An increasing number of children are at home with no adult care or supervision. Young people need to know that someone cares about them.
The Boys & Girls Club of Johnson City/Washington County
offers that and more. Club programs and services promote and enhance the development of boys and girls by instilling a sense of competence, usefulness, belonging and influence. The Boys & Girls Club of Johnson City/Washington County . . . Is for Boys and Girls Has full-time trained professional leadership Builds character Assures that all young people can afford to belong through low fees and scholarships Is building-centered Is for all races, religions, and ethnic cultures Is non-sectarian and has an open-door policy Has a varied and diversified program operated nationally that WORKS Is guidance-oriented
Boys & Girls Clubs are a safe place to learn and grow - all while having fun. It is truly The Positive Place For Kids. For more information about the The Boys & Girls Club of Johnson City/Washington County visit www. gokidz.org or 423-461-4560
State Theatre Company Presents The State Theatre would like to invite you out for night of drama, suspense, love, and a whole lot of laughs!
A recent outbreak of the flu in our area has all of us asking how we can fortify our immune systems to increase our resistance. A healthy lifestyle is always our first line of defense, but vitamin D is a “superstar” immune enhancer. Researchers reporting in the Archives of Internal Medicine established a link between vitamin D and respiratory infections such as colds and flu by showing that those with the lowest vitamin D blood levels (less than 10 ng per milliliter) were 40% more likely to have colds and flu than those with levels of 30 or higher. Vitamin D helps regulate the genes that involve the body’s innate immunity and its defenses against viruses, especially those affecting the respiratory system. It stimulates immune cells to produce anti-microbial substances that help to control the replication of viruses. Available in soft gels, liquid and chewable tablets in doses up to 5,000 IU’s, vitamin D3 is the natural form that is best absorbed. As always, we guarantee your satisfaction.
Locally Owned for 35 Years
ased on the Alfred Hitchcock film of the same name, "The 39 Steps" the script, adapted by Patrick Barlow, follows the protagonist, Richard Hannay who goes out for a night at the theatre and soon finds himself wrapped up into a world of spies, wartime secrets and hilarious adventures throughout the 1930s Scottish Highlands. The show, which features over 80 characters in the entire, calls for only four actors. While the lead character, Hannay, is played by a single actor, the rest of the cast plays many various characters each, in this hilarious high-energy production. The show will be, directed by State Theatre Company's Artistic Director Cameron Hite and
the cast includes, Richard Jackson as Richard Hannay, and State Theatre Company members, Ashley King, Zachary Starnes and Josh Holley. The State Theatre Company believes that she show experience starts from the moment the audience walks through the door. Audience members will step into the 1930s when they step into the location. The password found on their ticket will grant them access to the venue, a speakeasy jazz club with specialty cocktails where the show will take place. This show will run Thursday March 16 through Sunday April 2. Show times are Friday through Sunday at 8 p.m. with 2 p.m. matinees on Sundays. Tickets are $15 or $10 for groups of 10 or more. This show is appropriate for all ages.
"The 39 Steps" will be presented at Taylored Venue and Events at 115 Shelby Street in Downtown Kingsport. Tickets can be purchased online at the company website at statetheatrecomapany.com or at any State Theatre Company event until then. For more information, please call 423-384-1123.
Spring workshops and seminars at Bristol’s Slater Center
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ach spring Bristol’s Parks and Recreation Department hosts a number of evening workshops and seminars at the Slater Community Center. This year many of the seminars are based on health education. Each of the seminars requires pre-registration and a fee of only 3 dollars. The workshops and seminars consist of the following topics, Hormone Balancing, Nutrition Response Testing, and Dry Needling and Chiropractic. For dates, times, and registration deadlines please
go to https://bristoltn.recdesk.com or call Becky Olinger at 423-7644006. A Spring and Easter Tea Party Workshop is also scheduled for March 30, 2017. Participants will be taught how to make an adorable bunny cake and decorate an Easter Bonnet. There will be finger foods and tea served. The deadline for pre-registration is Friday, March 24, 2017. For more information on these and many other Parks and Recreation programs please visit the city’s website at www.bristoltn.org.
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The 39 Steps B
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Now Accepting Entries
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Annual Juried Art Exhibition
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Jonesborough’s McKinney Center is now accepting entries for the Fifth Annual Juried Art Exhibition that will take place April 21 – May 19. Prizes will be awarded to the artists with the top three entries at the opening reception on Friday, March 21, 6:00 p.m.
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nationally known artist and author, Ted Rose has, for nearly half a century influenced the field of arts through his role as an artist, author, consultant, and educator. He holds a Master of Fine Arts degree from the University of Tennessee, a Masters of Education degree from Edinboro University, and a Bachelor of Arts degree from David Lipscomb University. He has worked extensively for over 35 years in secondary education, colleges and universities, including Abilene Christian University, Union University, William Carey College, Lipscomb University, and is presently professor and chair of the art department at Cumberland University in Lebanon, Tennessee. Ted’s artwork explores a diverse range of concepts and content, from highly detailed works to more creative and abstract pieces. He has had 21 solo exhibits in seven states, six international exhibitions, and received more than 50 awards for his work. He currently has paintings on exhibit at the Contemporary Art Museum in Boulder, Colorado, and recently had a one-man exhibition at the Mary C. O’Keefe Cultural Center in Ocean Springs, Mississippi. His
Best in Show will receive $1000, Second Place will receive, $600, and Third Place will receive $400. Awards will be based on the actual art work by this year’s Juror, Ted Rose, Dean of the School of Music & the Arts at Cumberland University.
artwork is displayed in over 200 private and corporate collections, including the collections of several Fortune 500 companies. Ted has several publications to his credit, including the top-selling secondary education textbook on drawing in the United States, "Discovering Drawing,” currently in its third edition. All forms of art will be accepted such mixed media, painting, photography, sculpture, wood, ceramic, jewelry, etc. Jonesborough and East Tennessee is rich with professional artists and the exhibition is expected to attract entries from the many high-level and skilled artists across the region. Entries must be original works and not copied from copyrighted or published art or photographs. Artists who submit entries must be at least 18 years of age. All entries must be original works completed within the last two years and not have been exhibited previously at the McKinney Center. Digital submissions are due by Monday, March 13, 2017, 3:00 p.m. Digital images will be organized by McKinney Center staff and submitted electronically to the juror. Entry fees include a nonrefundable fee of $35 for one to three works of art.
Up to three additional entries may be submitted for $10 each. The deadline to digitally submit entries is Monday, March 13, at 3 p.m. at the McKinney Center. Notification of acceptance/rejection will be emailed to artists by March 25. A prospectus and entry form can be downloaded from www. jonesboroughtn.org. For more information, contact Theresa Hammons at theresah@jonesboroughtn.org or 423-753-0562.
Michelle O’Patrick-Ollis, Savannah, Best in Show, 2016
In Concert @ Kingsport Renaissance Art Theatre Friday, March 10 7:30 PM
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The Buddz Video Shoot Music Video Shoot @ Capone's
he Kingsport Office of Cultural Arts in partnership with Engage Kingsport presents Rob Ickes and Trey Hensley Concert on Friday, March 10, 2017 at 7:30 PM. Tickets are $15, reserved seating. Tickets are available at the door or in advance at www.engagekingsport. com, or by calling 423-392-8414. Opener: Local favorite, If Birds Could Fly, will open the concert at 7:30pm. Kingsport Renaissance Arts Theatre, 1200 East Center Street, Kingsport.
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he Buddz want to welcome you to their music video shoot on March 17th at Capone’s (227 E Main Street) in Johnson City! The Buddz, Bristol-Born band, have decided to let the fans be a part of their success. The Buddz last video, featured on YouTube went viral, gaining millions of views and counting. They are certain this follow up will be just as successful, maybe even more. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity for the fans to connect with a band that’s truly making a name for themselves. Famed Director Justin Reich will produce and direct this video, Reich is best known for his work with musicians such as Paul Stanley and Ace Frehley (of Kiss) and Zakk Wylde( former guitarist for Ozzy Osbourne) and countless other bands. He has recently brought his vision back for their second video and promises this production is going to leave a mark on Tri-Cities and rock music itself! This is a free show with opening acts Arm the Witness and Something Clever and will start at 7pm.
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RobIckes&TreyHensley
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Miss Ellie String Band
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At Heartwood
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The Crooked Road: Virginia’s Heritage Music Trail presents the Miss Ellie String Band in concert on Thursday, March 9th from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. at Heartwood in Abingdon, VA. This concert is part of The Crooked Road Music Series at Heartwood.
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he Miss Ellie String Band, in its present form, came together in January 2017, although several of its members have played together for some time. The band members have been students at Mountain Empire Community College’s Mountain Music School and the WiseJAMS and Scott County JAMS (Junior Appalachian Musicians) programs. The group’s name was chosen in tribute to Sue Ella Boatright-Wells. Sue Ella spent many years preserving and promoting Appalachian music and culture. Sadly, she passed away in August 2016 and this group is an example of the many lives that she touched in developing the Mountain Music School. Sue Ella was affectionately known as “Miss Ellie” by a number of close friends. The group is pleased to honor her legacy by presenting the Miss Ellie String Band. The Crooked Road Music Series takes place each Thursday at Heartwood. The series
Race for the Cure
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egistration is now open for the 2017 Tri-Cities Race for the Cure, with $5 in early bird savings available until March 13. This year’s race will take place on Mother’s Day weekend, Saturday, May 13 at Memorial Park, 1625 Fort Henry Drive, across from Dobyns Bennett High School. On-site registration begins at 7:30 a.m. on race day. Start times include: Survivor Celebration at 8:15 a.m., 5K at 9:30 a.m., and One Mile at 10 a.m. Awards presentations will follow. Seventy-five percent of net proceeds raised through Race for the Cure stay in the local community. Register online before April 30 for the option of getting your race packet mailed for $5. Register at: www.KomenEastTn.org.
features youth artists each 2nd Thursday along with open jams on the 1st, 3rd, 4th (and 5th) Thursdays to showcase Southwest Virginia performers. The Crooked Road Music Series is sponsored by Heartwood, VA Department of Housing and Community Development, VA 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). More information can be found at The Crooked Road website, www. thecrookedroad.org, and at www. heartwoodvirginia.org. For additional information, please call 276-492-2409 or email: info@thecrookedroad.org.
Spring into Spring with SHENANIGANS 2017!
The cast of Shenanigans 2017 is up to their crazy antics in this frolicsome musical comedy revue at LampLight Theatre, downtown Kingsport, Tennessee, March 10-12 and March 17-19. Laugh away any winter blues with some knee-slappin’ comedy, and let a talented cast of performers help you reminisce of favorite musicals gone by.
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resented in Vaudeville style, this show promises to bring a smile to everyone who attends. People of all ages will get a “kick” out of this humorous revue filled with songs from past musicals and a walk down memory lane. Shenanigans 2017 will feature
a “Wizard of Oz Spin-off/Mash-Up” that will include numbers from the original “Wizard of Oz”, “Wicked”, and “The Wiz”, and will also feature a Tribute to the late Debbie Reynolds and numbers from Disney’s “The Lion King”. The Shenanigans 2017 comedy crew will make you giggle with their lighthearted adventures and musical numbers, including a parody of Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast”. This show is sure to bring a smile to coldest heart. What a great way to spring into Spring with this spirited variety show! Treat your date, family, or church group to Dinner before the performance! A delicious catered meal will be offered March 10th at 5:30pm, March 11th at 12:30pm and 5:30pm, and March 18th at 5:30pm and will be held in our new facility, The Emporium, next to the Theatre. The menu for the dinner can be found at www.LampLightTheatre.com. Reservations are required. This is a show for the entire family! The production will be held two consecutive weekends, March 10-12 and March 17-19 with evening performances on Fridays and Saturdays at 7:00 p.m. Saturday matinees will be held at 2:00 p.m. and Sunday matinees at 3:00 p.m. Doors will open one hour prior to performances. The cost of admission for all performances is a suggested donation of $10.00 for Adults, $5.00 for students, and FREE for children age 5 and under. Reservations are suggested and can be made by calling the LampLight box office at 423-343-1766, Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. or online at www.LampLightTheatre.com.
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Workshop
MIND-BODY-WRITING
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he public is invited to participate in a MindBody-Writing Workshop led by. Tressa Berman, PhD, at the Appalachian Dharma & Meditation Center (ADMC) in Johnson City Saturday, March 11, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The workshop is designed to help writers, from beginners to professional, release creative energy through meditation and writing exercises. Please bring your prose and poetry. No previous writing experience is required. Tressa Berman, Ph.D, an anthropologist, author, dharma practitioner and meditation teacher. She was ordained as a lay practitioner in the Soto Zen tradition and most recently took lay ordination as an Acharya (teacher) at Heartwood Refuge in Hendersonville, North Carolina, where she currently serves as its executive director. In this day-long workshop, Dr Berman will combine sitting, walking and guided meditation techniques to create concentration and awareness to enliven our writing practice. Activities include writing prompts, imagery and group reflection for personal writing time and group feedback. No prior writing, meditation or yoga experience is required. Suggested donation is $30. ADMC is a non-profit center for mindfulness and meditation studies. It is located at 108 West 10th Ave., Suite 3 (downstairs), Johnson City, TN. To preregister (space is limited) go to mail@dharma4et. org. For more information about the workshop or ADMC please go to www.dharma4et.org.
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Two Dreams Coming True
When Yarad Desalegn opened Zachary’s Steak House on Valentine’s Day this year at the top of State Street in Downtown Bristol, it was the culmination of two separate dreams – Yarad’s and the American.
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arad is an interesting guy. He was born in Ethiopia, where, with some training in food and beverage, he earned a spot at the Ambassador Dining Room and worked there for many years. He met such notables as Jimmy Carter, Madeleine Albright, and Jesse Jackson. In 2001 Yarad moved to the US, specifically Washington D.C. with, as he says, “not a penny to my name, but God was with me.” His American pedigree begins with a stint at Mister Smith’s in Georgetown followed by five years at the Ritz Carlton in Atlanta and then the Intercontinental in Buckhead. As he says, “I appreciate the USA.” The bug of the American Dream bit him and he moved to the Tri-Cities, first owning a gas station, and then, four years later in 2010, Yarad opened Zachary’s Steak House in Colonial Heights. With six successful years under his belt, he took the plunge and opened Zachary’s Steak House in Bristol. Little did he know in 2010 when he named his business after his yet unborn son that he would be realizing the American Dream in 2017. Dedication to quality ingredients, excellent preparation and first rate service is paying dividends for both Yarad and his ever-growing clientele. Visit either of his locations and see for yourself. Oh, and if you have room, he has some delectable desserts too!
The Loafer is my go to source for live music happenings across the Tri-Cities!" Amy M.
Zachary’s opens on State Street
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www.moreheadstate.edu/kctm
theloaferonline.com | March 7, 2017
at Carter Family Fold
Morehead State Mtn Music Ambassadors To learn more about the KY Center for Traditional Arts go to
Saturday, March 11th, 2017, at 7:30 p.m. the Carter 11 Family Fold in Hiltons, Virginia, will present a concert of bluegrass music by Raymond McLain and the Morehead State Mountain Music Ambassadors. Admission to the concert is $10 for adults, $2 for children 6 to 11, under age 6 free.
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aymond McLain has been performing at Carter Family shows since Janette Carter first began presenting concerts in the old A.P. Carter Grocery in 1974 – first with his family, the McLain Family Band – and later with ETSU when he was head of the ETSU Bluegrass, Old Time, and Country Music program. Raymond is currently the Director of the Kentucky Center for Traditional Music at Morehead State University. He also performs, produces, and records. Raymond serves on the Carter Music Center’s board of directors in addition to serving as the Artistic Director at the Fold. Raymond’s father served on the Music Center’s board from the time it was created in 1979. When his father died, Raymond agreed to occupy the board seat his dad once held. The long and loving friendship between the McLain and Carter families dates back nearly 40 years to the early 1970s. Raymond’s 40 plus years of entertaining have taken him to performances in all 50 states and 62 foreign countries, including a tour as a musical ambassador of the U.S. State Department. For 21 years with the McLain Family Band, Raymond performed at hundreds of thousands
of festivals and concerts internationally and as a soloist in appearances with over 230 orchestras. Raymond was with Jim & Jesse’s Virginia Boys for ten years. He currently performs with Canadian harmonica whiz, Mike Stevens. Through the years, the McLains have produced dozens of CDs and records. Raymond’s sister, Ruth McLain Smith, will be performing with him along with other faculty members and students from the Morehead State University Traditional Music program. Kentucky, Virginia, Tennessee, and North Carolina have traditionally produced some of the finest country, bluegrass, and old time musicians in the world. Carter Music Center strives to preserve not only the music of the mountains but the traditions of the mountains as well. Come out and support the next generation of mountain musicians. There will be lots of fiddle tunes, outstanding harmony, amazing instrumentals, and lots of fun for all ages. Bring your dancing shoes, and bring along your friends for a memorable night of Appalachian music and dance. For recorded information on shows coming up at the Fold, call 276-386-6054 or visit www. carterfoldshow.com
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his one night only engagement is in support of Emmanuel’s latest album It’s Never Too Late. The album is 14 tracks of all original music with no vocals or guests. It’s just pure Tommy – solo. This legendary guitarist has a professional career that spans five decades and continues to intersect with some of the finest musicians throughout the world. A household name in his native Australia, Tommy has garnered hundreds of thousands of loyal fans worldwide. Tommy’s unique style – he calls it simply “finger style” – is akin to playing guitar the way a pianist plays piano, using all ten fingers. Rather than using a whole band for melody, rhythm, bass, and drum parts, Tommy plays all that, and more, on one guitar. Guitar legend Chet Atkins was one of the first to inspire Emmanuel to try this “fingerpicker” style as a child. Decades later, Atkins himself became one of Emmanuel’s biggest fans and christened Emmanuel a Certified Guitar Player, making him one of only five musicians to receive the C.G.P. distinction from the master. Guitar players of all levels come to Tommy Emmanuel’s shows to watch him work his magic, but his appeal goes far beyond musicians. His live shows are known for their humor, performance, passion, and infectious joy. His message is just pure love for the music and his delight in sharing it with the world, one audience at a time. Twenty-five-year-old Australian Joe Robinson opens for Tommy Emmanuel. This young man is considered uniquely gifted as a virtuoso guitarist and singer/ songwriter. He walks a tightrope between the instrumental music that has put him in the spotlight and a unique fusion of vocally based rock, blues, jazz, and R&B that is entirely his own.
Enjoy a night of great music with Tommy Emmanuel at the Niswonger Performing Arts Center (NPAC) in historic downtown Greeneville, TN on Saturday, March 11th at 7:30 PM. Tickets are $40 for orchestra seating, $35 for mezzanine level seating and $30 for balcony seats. Tickets may be purchased online at www.npacgreeneville.com, in person at the NPAC box office, or by calling 423-638-1679. NPAC offers online seat selection with no processing or delivery fees. There is a $1.50 ticketing fee per ticket regardless of purchase method. The box office hours are Monday through Friday, 10 AM until 5 PM. The 1150 seat performing arts center is located adjacent to the campus of Greeneville High School. For venue information, and to purchase tickets, please visit www.npacgreeneville.com.
Storm Spotters Training
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ll ages are invited to the Johnson City Public Library Jones Meeting Room on Saturday, March 11 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. for the SKYWARN Storm Spotter Training led by representatives from the National Weather Service in Morristown. Participants will learn how to identify and report severe weather and what to do to keep safe. Please RSVP to the Johnson City Public Library Facebook event in lieu of registration. This training is not recommended for very young children. To learn more about this and other upcoming events, visit the library’s events calendar at www.jcpl.net, like the library’s Facebook page, or follow the library on Twitter or Instagram. For more information about this free program or other Youth Services programs, please call 423-434-4458.
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Tommy Emmanuel performs @ NPAC
Acoustic Guitar Extraordinaire
Two-time Grammy® nominee guitarist Tommy Emmanuel will be bringing his passionate and infectious live show to NPAC on Saturday, March 11th at 7:30 PM.
Spotlight
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- TUESDAY - Mar. 7th -
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 - Mar. 11th -
- FRIDAY - Mar. 10th -
Jiggy Ray’s Pizzeria
Down Home
The Big Deals
Adam McMillan
Scott Bianchi / JC Tokes
Soul Collision
Jason Keiser / Adrienne Mack-Davis
Downtown Country
Acoustic Coffeehouse
- WEDNESDAY - Mar. 8th Jerry Pierce & the Nightlife Band The Dispensary
Lawrence Trailer
Acoustic Coffeehouse
- THURSDAY - Mar. 9th Movie Brain / the Parlor / Us, If I Hivehead
The Hideaway
Jiggy Ray’s Pizzeria
Holston River Brewing Company
Acoustic Coffeehouse
Silver Bullet
The Diamonds
Country Club Bar & Grill
Rock’s Wood Fired Pizza & Grill
Live Music
Wyldeheart & From The Edge
Rob Ickes w/ Trey Hensley If Birds Could Fly
Country Club Bar & Grill
Bone Fire Smokehouse
Holston River Brewing Company
Crooked Road Rejects
Kingsport Renaissance Arts Center & Theatre
Kevin Buttry Band
Lily / Kyle Cox
CJ’s Sports Bar
Acoustic Coffeehouse
Jacob Green
Live Music
O’Mainnin’s Pub
Victor Lawson w/ Duane “Catfish” Frye
Bone Fire Smokehouse
Brendan & The Strange Ways Music Collaboration Meetup
EC Frazier
Morehead State University Mountain Music Ambassadors
at Wolf Hills Brewing
Acoustic Coffeehouse
Nostalgia Duo
Rock’s Wood Fired Pizza & Grill
State Line Bar & Grill
Carter Family Fold
- SATURDAY - Mar. 11th -
Daniel Salyer
Demon Waffle / Nerve Endings / the Harakiris
Holiday Inn
The Hideaway
Mick Kyte
Model City Tap House
- FRIDAY - Mar. 10th -
The Ian Feathers Band
Studio Brew
Southern Boys Band
Anthony Wayne
Country Club of Bristol
Southern Rebellion
Kingsport Eagles
American Dropouts w/ The Cryptoids
Powderkeg Outlaws
Neil Cribbs
Southern Breeze
Songwriter Round with Chris Long
Southern Countrymen Band
Wild Wing Cafe
Capone’s
The Willow Tree Coffeehouse & Music Room
Our House Restaurant
Railway Express
Abingdon Moose Lodge
Rob Ickes & Try Hensley
Railway Express
Erwin Moose Lodge
The Eagles Club
Willoughby Ruritan
Shades of Refinement
The Willow Tree Coffeehouse & Music Room
Kevin Bridges / Bernardus Acoustic Coffeehouse
Live Music
Bone Fire Smokehouse
- MONDAY - Mar. 13th Open Mic
Acoustic Coffeehouse
Open Mic
Rock’s Wood Fired Pizza & Grill
JJ’s Sports Bar
Broke-N-Busted
Kingsport Renaissance Arts Center & Theatre
The Silver Spur
The Phoenix Band
Darrin & Brooke Aldridge
Chilhowee Lion’s Club
Justin Mychals, Reagan Boggs & Jeff Lane
Studio Brew
Acoustifried
O’Mainnin’s Pub
- SUNDAY - Mar. 12th -
Down Home
for show time & more details, visit
theloaferonline.com
O’Mainnin’s Pub 712 State St Bristol 423-844-0049
Acoustic Coffeehouse 415 W Walnut St. Johnson City 423-434-9872
The Hideaway 235 E. Main St Johnson City 423-926-3896
Our House Restaurant 4903 N. Roan St. Johnson City 423-282-1555
Bone Fire Smokehouse at the Hardware 260 W Main St Abingdon Va 276-623-0037
Holiday Inn (Exit 7) 3005 Linden Dr Bristol Va 276-466-4100
Rock’s Wood Fired Pizza & Grill 3119 Bristol Hwy. Johnson City 423-262-0444
Holston River Brewing Company 2621 Volunteer Pkwy Bristol TN
Silver Spur RR 6 Gate City VA 276-452-2664
Capone’s 227 E Main St Johnson City 423-928-2295 CJ’S Sports Bar 516 Morelock St. Kingsport 423-390-1361 Country Club Bar & Grill 3080 W State St Bristol 423-844-0400 David Thompson’s Produce 251 Highway 107 Jonesborough 423-913-8123
KARAOKE
The Dispensary 271 Oak Avenue, Spruce Pine NC 828-765-0050
Jiggy Ray’s 610 E. Elk Ave Elizabethton 423-518-1500 Kingsport Renaissance Center 1200 E Center St Kingsport 432-392-8415 The Lions Club 116 Industrial Park Rd. Chilhowie VA 276-646-3916 Model City Tap House 324 E Market St. Kingsport
TUESDAY Karaoke w/ Sean at Dawg House Tavern Karaoke w/ Absolute Entertainment at Wingstop - Kingsport TN Karaoke At Numan’s - Johnson City TN *********************** WEDNESDAY Karaoke w/ Southern Sounds Karaoke at American Legion 8pm Karaoke w/ DJ Marquez & Open Mic Entertainment at Holston River Brewing Company Karaoke w/ Absolute Entertainment at Smokey Bones - Johnson City TN Turn the Page Karaoke At VFW Post 2108 - Johnson City TN *********************** THURSDAY Karaoke w/ Absolute Entertainment at Macado’s - Kingsport Karaoke At Numan’s - Johnson City TN Karaoke w/ Absolute Entertainment at New Beginning’s Karaoke at Jiggy Rays Pizzaria ***********************
Studio Brew 221 Moore Street Bristol VA 423-360-3258 Wild Wing Café 71 Wilson Avenue Johnson City TN 423-461-0071 The Willow Tree Coffeehouse & Music Room 216 E Main St Johnson City Wolf Hills Brewing Company 350 Park St. SE Abingdon VA 276-451-5470
FRIDAY Karaoke w/ Southern Sounds Karaoke at Sportsman’s Bar & Grill 9pm Karaoke at Kingsport Moose Lodge Karaoke w/ Reverb Karaoke at The Cottage 8:30 pm Turn the Page Karaoke at VFW Post 2108 - Johnson City TN Karaoke at CJ’s Sports Bar Karaoke At Elizabethton VFW - Elizabethton TN Karaoke w/ DJ Marques At Holiday Inn (Exit 7) - Bristol VA Karaoke w/ Absolute Entertainment at Moe’s Original BBQ Karaoke at Numan’s - Johnson City TN *********************** SATURDAY Karaoke at The Horseshoe Lounge Karaoke at Kingsport Moose Lodge Turn the Page Karaoke at VFW Post 2108 - Johnson City TN Karaoke w/ Absolute Entertainment At Macado’s - Kingsport Karaoke At Numan’s - Johnson City TN ***********************
15 theloaferonline.com | March 7, 2017
Down Home 300 W. Main St. Johnson City 423-929-9822
SPOTLIGHT DIRECTORY
Abingdon Moose Lodge 15605 Porterfield Hwy Abgindon VA 276-628-2756
theloaferonline.com | March 7, 2017
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SPACE CENTER IS DEFINITION OF AMAZING
America’s Kennedy Space Center seems to “get it” when considering the legacy of our great nation and the incredible manned mission of NASA.
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nd when seeing the tributes to the fallen astronauts of Apollo 1, Challenger and Columbia, well if you’re not emotionally moved, shame on you. I spent a day at the famed U.S. Space Port, my fourth visit but first in nearly two decades. And I was completely blown away. The education level was outstanding, the displays were amazing and the theatrical techniques were at times jaw-dropping. And when I saw the busloads of school kids and throngs of adults from all over the world scurrying around the Space Center, I felt reassured that our great nation is back on track in a new Space Race. Kennedy Space Center is definitely a vacation stop for those enjoying Florida any time of the year. Around the Space Center there is construction everywhere because of a new NASA era where cooperation with private industry is beginning to peak.
projection screen images of their lives and careers. But the big reveal is the three sections of the actual spaceship hatch that doomed the spacemen. Once a spark ignited the pure oxygen environment inside the capsule, the astronauts tried in vain to quickly open the hatch, a 10-minute process. Next to this display, is the new hatch built as a result of the tragedy, easily opened in around a minute. NASA rallied around the tragedy of Apollo 1 to land on the Moon just 30 months later, fulfilling the challenge of President John F. Kennedy. This is the first time the infamous hatch has been displayed, tastefully in an exhibit that includes the red gantry access arm that all Apollo astronauts walked across too their spaceship. The highlight of KSC is no doubt the Shuttle orbiter Atlantis, brought home for the world to see after its 33rd successful mission. Those spaceflights included
Massive buildings are going up to house rockets being built by SpaceX, Blue Horizon and Orbital ATK. And the regular NASA staff has a new spring in their step as America gets closer to launching its super rocket, the Space Launch System (SLS) and the human-crewed Orion spaceship—hopefully within the next three years. Kennedy Space Center offers a unique way to educate the masses before turning them loose on the extensive exhibits. You will see a short movie or 3-D video before witnessing artifacts of brave astronauts and enthusiastic rocket engineers. The public awareness of our spacey world is highlighted in the must-see attractions of the Astronaut Hall of Fame, the Shuttle orbiter Atlantis and the Saturn V building. And each NASA attraction provides an ingenious escape route—through a gift shop! The prices are reasonable for many things (3 custom Tees, or NASA hat and long sleeve shirt for $27) and maybe unreasonable for others ($300 for a cheesy Gemini spaceship model or $1,200 for a Buzz Aldrin on the Moon autographed Apollo 11 poster). But the price of admission is not too bad: $50 adults; $40 for kids 3-11 (with military and senior citizen discounts) and $10 parking. That includes the bus ride to the Saturn V building where the mighty Moon rocket lies on its side and you can touch a Moon rock. It is at the Saturn V building that the Apollo 14 Command Module resides in a room with three more rocks from the Moon. At this beautiful exhibit there is a history of space suits, including the one worn on the Moon by Apollo 14 commander Alan Shepard. But the newest display at KSC is a dramatic tribute to the three lost astronauts in a launch pad fire during a dress rehearsal in January 1967. Personal memorabilia of astronauts Gus Grissom, Ed White and Roger Chaffee are displayed behind rear
seven dockings with the Russian MIR space station, as well as 12 construction mission to the International Space Station. As if the dramatic unveiling of the spaceship after a video of its history isn’t enough, a full-scale replica of the Hubble Space Telescope is nearby, as well as orbiter cockpit mock ups and an exciting Shuttle Launch Experience simulation. But what blew me away was the classy and reverent hall wing that celebrates the lost astronauts of the Challenger launch explosion in 1986 and Columbia reentry destruction in 2003. On each side of the hall are display cases containing personal artifacts and photos of the 14 dead spacefliers. The effort is made to reveal a bit about their personal lives. And then you turn the corner… The room is dark and bathed in blue as you see two huge display walls. To the left is a six-foot piece of Challenger’s fuselage with American flag; to the right are the metal frames from the front windows of Columbia. Dramatic. Serene. Gripping. Emotional. Those were my feelings as I stared at the spaceship remains and remembered the events of those sad days, each to never be forgotten. Kudos to the NASA archives team who created this impactful exhibit. For me, it was worth the whole price of admission. But NASA’s legacy is a happy one. And KSC is definitely a happy place! There is a giant IMAX Theater; historical films are shown hourly; an interactive Mars Exploration center has the latest imagery from rovers Opportunity and Curiosity; you can eat lunch with an astronaut; or enjoy your own meal under the historical monuments of the rocket garden. Yes, America is blasting its way back into space, with both the government and private industry gearing for exiting times ahead. Be a part of it and plan a visit to Kennedy Space Center…you won’t regret a moment.
Stargazer
By Mark Marquette since 1996 stargazermarq@ gmail.com
H
ere it comes again…that 23-hour Sunday that Daylight Saving Time robs us of an hour of precious sleep—so don’t make Saturday night a big party! The hour of 2 am Sunday becomes 3 am with tick of a clock’s second hand as we spring forward to the Vernal Equinox on March 22. The Moon is dancing across the landscape awakening from winter, it’s full phase Sunday called the Worm Moon for the critters wriggling, Sap Moon for trees stretching and Equinox Moon for the season.
Tuesday, March 7 On this 1969 date in space history, NASA flew for the first time the Lunar Module moonship in Earth orbit, practicing docking maneuvers with the Apollo 9 Command Module. Gemini veteran astronaut Jim McDivitt, 87, stayed in the mother ship named “Gumdrop” while in the odd-looking moonship named “Spider” were astronauts Rusty Schweickart, 81, and future moonwalker David Scott, 84. The success made possible four months later the historic Apollo 11 landing.
17 Thursday, March 9 Speaking of which, the Big Dipper is making its annual spring appearance standing on its handle of three stars at 8:30 pm. The rest of the constellation Ursa Major, the Big Bear, is sprawling ahead of the hindquarters “asterism” of the famous seven stars, called the Plow in Great Britain. Friday, March 10 The gibbous Moon spends the next two days crossing the belly of Leo the Lion, a constellation that is a sure sign of Spring as it is ready to roar above the eastern horizon. Saturday, March 11 Though it’s bright, the Full Moon won’t blot out the eight, 1st magnitude stars that ring the sky in what amateur astronomers call the Winter Octagon. Look around the night sky and you’ll see them. Sunday, March 12 Full Moon today, as well as DAYLIGHT SAVING TIME BEGINS. Daylight lasts until about 7:30 pm, but it’s dark in the morning again until 7:45 am. Remember, a 23-hour day today! 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 on Feb. 23.
Monday, March 13 Wednesday, March 8 On this 1781date in space history, William Herschel discovered the The mighty hunter Orion dominates the southern skies with the brightest sixth planet Uranus from the backyard observatory in his mansion in star in the skies, Sirius, at his feet in the Big Dog constellation, Canis Major. Bath, England. He was the greatest telescopic astronomer to just use his The bright stars of Orion’s knees and shoulders, and his bisecting belt of eyes, discovering thousands and cataloguing thousands of double stars, three stars are the most recognized star pattern--next to the Big Dipper. nebula, galaxies and star clusters—though the exact nature of these objects would await photography, pioneered by his son, John.
theloaferonline.com | March 7, 2017
THIS WEEK
SKIES
Celestial events in the skies for the week of March 7-13, 2017 as compiled for The Loafer by Mark D. Marquette.
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How to Recover From The Crud I was sick most of last week. I wasn’t thrilled about it, but I was happy it would mean a few days of needed rest. The biggest problem was that this attack came the week of a big and busy weekend coming where I needed to be a fully operational Andy. The kind of weekend where I would be speaking to groups of people and not needing to be a snotty monster covered in the crud of a thousand deaths.
Batteries Not Included
By Andy Ross aross@ theloaferonline.com
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t hit me in the most unexpected way. Monday had been a really good day, but in the evening I started to go through a box of tissues. I woke the next day with the full throws of crud having overtaken my body. I was filled with panic since I had this big thing coming up on Saturday night. I thought “engage recovery mode quick!” The clear first step was to embrace one of nature’s most powerful healing aids, “The Price is Right.” Do not scoff, dear reader. Once I laid on my couch and the let the power of Plinko wash over me, I began to feel better. I did other folk remedies and began eating soup like I had just won a jackpot of Campbell’s. I took this amish ointment and rubbed it all over my body, I covered myself with purell from head to toe. I phoned my friend and yelled “Everything is burning! That means it’s getting better, right? RIGHT!?” On day two I began the tea therapy. I guzzled mug after mug of hot herbal tea waiting for it to kick the sick out of my body. As the days crept closer to Saturday, I began googling more and more “cure alls” as if I was a desperate man in a bad stage play. I went to the local drug store and bought every cough drop and throat lozenge they had. I can now tell you the EXACT kind you need for whatever throat irritation you may be having at this moment.
I have found that for this crud F i s h e r m a n’s Friend was best. Friday arrives, I’m feeling about 65% like myself. I go into super emergency recovery mode to get me to at least 80% for the next night. I lay on the couch and watch Vincent Price films all day. That afternoon, I ventured outside for the first time and I was shocked to see this glowing orb in the sky. Amazingly, I woke on Saturday with a sense of about 79%. I took it, and I managed to make it through my crazy weekend without seeming like a corn husk of a man. Even if I maybe got a little carried away during the week. See you next week.
Director Jordan Peele ("Key & Peele') apparently set out to say much about society in the new comedy horror film "Get Out". However, there is little humor and few scares in the film, leaving some film fans perplexed, at least based on the post film comments I overheard.
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Pop Life
By Ken Silvers ksilvers@ theloaferonline.com
am not saying the film is all bad, it is just a challenging film to sit through. The plot of the film involves Brooklyn-based photographer Chris Washington (Daniel Kaluuya) preparing to venture to a remote part of New York state with his girlfriend Rose Armitage (Allison Williams) to meet her parents. Cue up the film "Guess Who's Coming to Dinner" and you will get the idea. Chris is very nervous and apprehensive about the trip (smart guy), but Allison assures all will be fine when they meet her parents. One bad omen about the journey occurs when a dear violently crashes into their car, and the investigating police office asks for Chris's driver's license even though he isn't driving. When our duo finally make it to the Armitage estate, they finally meet the parents of Rose, and they are extremely annoying and a bit to enthusiastic. The parents are played by Bradley Whitford and Catherine Keener, and the two do everything they can to make Chris feel comfortable, at least until they ask how long "this" (the couple's relationship) has been going on. Things become even more bizarre when Rose's brother Jeremy (Caleb Landry Jones) threatens to fight Chris in the dining room. Later in the evening after he awakens, Chris wonders outside where he encounters the strange behavior of groundskeeper Walter (Marcus Henderson) and cook Georgina (Betty Gabriel). After his startling experience, Chris attempts to return to the guest room when he encounters Rose's mom Missy, who, after convincing him to sit down and chat for a bit, hypnotizes him and puts him in "the sunken place". You see, Missy is a psychiatrist who has a knack for hypnosis, and has been using her talent for years to subdue people. When Chris is finally back in his room, he is freaked out by a guy, Logan (LaKeith Stanfield), he calls his friend Rodney Williams (Lil Rel Howery), a TSA officer in an attempt to figure out what is going on at the Armitage estate. Chris is eventually caught in the middle of the dastardly happenings at the estate, and without spoiling the twist, is aided by his friend Rodeny in his efforts to escape the nightmare he has fallen into. The film does feature plenty of shocking moments, and one segment involving surgery made me squirm in my seat. The director has attempted to blend horror with comedy in an effort to convey our country's ongoing struggle with racism, but I feel he could have done so much more with the topic had the film left out the many over-the-top horror moments. Concerning the actors, Kaluuya is superb and steals the film from the other actors, specifically co-star Williams, who comes off a a reject from any nameless teen drama. I must give kudos to Howery, who bring much needed touches of humor to the film, and is a joy to watch. While "Get Out" does bring up much needed conversation about a serious topic, it left me wanting a better film and wondering what could have been. (Rated R) **1/2 (out of 4)
theloaferonline.com | March 7, 2017
Get Out
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Gateway Westward Along the Virginia and Kentucky state line lies Cumberland Mountain, a high ridge which stretches almost one hundred miles all the way from Norton, Virginia to Caryville, Tennessee. Marking the eastern edge of the rugged Cumberland Mountains, the ridge’s
rocky outcrops and soaring cliffs reach heights of over three thousand feet. It serves as a popular hiking destination and is home to the Cumberland Trail State Park, offering sweeping views of the Tennessee Valley far below and the Unaka mountain ranges beyond.
n the earliest years of our nation, the steep slopes and cliffs of the mountain weren’t enjoyed for their beauty, but were instead a source of consternation for weary travelers. With no significant water gaps, explorers were forced to make difficult climbs or faced significant detours. It wasn’t until the year 1775, that a rather famous character known as Daniel Boone blazed a trail through the Cumberland Gap and beyond into the wilds of Kentucky. Cumberland Gap National Historical Park is centered around that mountain pass which served as the gateway to the Midwest for hundreds of thousands of settlers looking to make a new life for themselves in those newly-opened lands. Covering more than 20,000 acres, the national park is home to a visitor center, campground, picnic area, 85+ miles of trails, and a guided cave tour. In addition, the historic Hensley Settlement preserves an authentic mountain community and can be toured as well. Several days are needed to explore the park in its entirety, but for those of use lucky enough to live a short drive away, a day trip is a great introduction to the park as well. Visitors approaching the park from the Tennessee side will pass through the Cumberland Gap Tunnel. This marvel of engineering was constructed in 1996 to alleviate the high levels of traffic passing along the original highway which passed through the gap on a daily basis. Immediately after exiting the tunnel is a ramp which leads to the park’s main visitor center. Stop by to pick up maps, explore the historical museum, and get your national park stamp cancellation. Ranger Sharon Griffin was amazing on our visit and can guide visitors towards a myriad of destinations depending on their time and what they want to see. A paved bike trail passes in front of the building, and a short one-mile loop trail provides a quick introduction to the mixed mesophytic forests which are found across the Cumberland plateau region. First time visitors to the park will want to make a right turn onto Pinnacle View Road, the park’s main scenic drive which leads to the Pinnacle Overlook. Steep switchbacks climb the side of Cumberland Mountain until the road terminates at a parking lot. From here, it’s just a short walk along a paved trail to the overlook. A well-known tourist attraction in time before the park’s
establishment, the sweeping vistas of the overlook were capitalized on as cars paid a fee to climb the first road which led to the summit. Views stretch for over a hundred miles on a clear day, ranging from the Powell River Valley and the town of Cumberland Gap immediately below to Mount LeConte and the Smokies on the distant horizon. Middlesboro, Kentucky lies to the right with the scarred mountainsides of the Cumberlands beyond. Although several trails begin at this point and scatter across the park, we decided to head back down the mountain to hike through the gap itself. Returning along Pinnacle View Road, park at the Thomas Walker Parking Area at the road’s intersection with Kentucky 988. Object Lesson Road Trail begins at the south side of the parking lot and lazily climbs through the forest and several fields as it approaches the gap. Interpretive displays discuss the history and importance of the gap, from Daniel Boone’s first trip through all the way to the Civil War. Several forts protected the gap and were occupied by Union and Confederate forces at different times throughout the war. As you finally reach the saddle of Cumberland Gap, it’s hard to believe that a highway used to pass through this area. When the tunnel was opened in 1996, the paved road through the gap was removed and the area restored to its natural state. Although it will take another hundred years for the forest to reclaim and restore the area to its original state, it doesn’t take much imagination to visualize the bison, Cherokee warriors, or European settlers who passed through this gap making their way along the wooded path. From this point, there are several hiking options for those who are more adventurous. A right turn will climb half a mile to Tri-State Peak; here visitors can stand in Tennessee, Kentucky, and Virginia all at the same time. A left turn onto Harlan Road Trail climbs back up to intersect with Pinnacle View Road. We decided to return a short ways and then take the Wilderness Road Trail. This mile-long trail makes a loop back to the parking area and provides the only place in the park where visitors can walk on the original Wilderness Road. While the tread is fairly rocky, it’s a great experience to walk in the footsteps of Daniel Boone himself and see such a legendary part of our local history.
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Appalachian Wanderers
By Jason & Daniel Worley jdworley@ theloaferonline.com
Historical cannons are found throughout the park reminding visitors of the gaps importance during the civil war.
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Directions: From I-81 South, take exit 12 and merge right onto TN-160 towards Morristown. At 3.2 miles, merge right again onto U.S. 25E North. Follow this road for 47 miles and take the first exit after the Cumberland Gap Tunnel onto Pinnacle View Road. The park is free and open year round. For further information, visit www.nps.gov/cuga.
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Who's The Funniest?
as blessed to attend the Jonesborough Yarn Exchange Radio Hour last week (2/27/17). A celebration of what is called Afrilachia (African American culture born of the Appalachian area) for Black History Month. People shared their own personal stories, recited poetry, sang, and recounted the history of the area and the impact of African Americans on Washington County, TN. This was one of the most empowering, encouraging, and enlightening experiences I have had in some time. If you have never been, it is held once a month. And I urge you to go.
Voices heard Praising ancestors Untold stories Living vicariously through minds Actions of generations Lend themselves to nudity Bearing all, that we may see them As they saw themselves As they saw others As they see each other Families Communities Friends Stories tied together This linguistic tapestry Given back To keep us all warm As they quilt memories One to another The power Of the Yarn Exchange
The Casual Word
By Langley Shazor Follow Langley at TheCasualWord
Who is the Funniest Person in the Tri-Cities? Prepare for raucous laughter to find out at this exciting entertainment event to be held March 11, 2017 at 8:00 p.m. at The Social at 240 E. Main St. (doors open at 7pm and seating is first come first serve).
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p to 10 comedians will compete for three minutes each in an “American Idol” style format. Three judges featuring Shuli Egar from “The Howard Stern Show” and “The Jay Thomas Show” on Sirius XM will critique the comedians. Then the audience will decide the winner by text-message voting. The winner will receive a cash prize and opening spot for a future E.T.N. Comedy event. Creators of the event recognize that there are many talented funny people in the Tri-Cities and it is their hopes that this will establish the area as a comedy hub attracting A-list comedians. The Beer Run and Sleepy Owl Brewery will have craft beers on tap for those 21 and up and door prizes will be awarded. To buy tickets (for those over 18) go to: WWW.etncomedy. com. Proceeds from the event are pledged to the soon-to-beacquired State Theatre property for renovating it into a 700-seat entertainment venue.
theloaferonline.com | March 7, 2017
Word of Mouth
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theloaferonline.com | March 7, 2017
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Jeff Lane
The Interview
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hen you hit the lottery, you take care of your momma and your dog. Those are words of wisdom from the track “I Hit the Lottery” by Real Life Heavies on their new album. We will learn more about that shortly. With lyrics like that, if you have met Jeff Lane you remember him. Jeff is just one of those people with a larger than life personality and a go-getter attitude that won’t be overlooked. And if you haven’t had a chance to hear him play music live, you just have to. His combination of songwriting, musical skill and showmanship are second to none. There is no silver spoon here either. Just a guy from a normal family who has proven hard work and positive thinking can create success right here in our region. So, without further ado, ladies and gentlemen, Jeff Lane.
Mountain Movers
By Brian Bishop bbishop@ theloaferonline.com
BRIAN: Hey Jeff, thanks for taking time to interview with me so folks can get to know you a little better. I always like to start these by asking you to talk a little about your background. What was your life like growing up and how has that shaped you? JEFF: I’d say that I was lucky. Although like a majority of families these days, mine had divorce in it which lead to less time with my Dad and more time with my Grandparents. That taught me a whole lot of things about life. My mother and I became a team on many things like working around the house and conserving heat so we could afford the wintertime. I learned to cook when I was very young and actually learned to use spices one winter when we were eating 50 cent boxes of macaroni and cheese for dinner every night. I could barely stand to eat any more of it until “made it taste totally different”! Mom would work as many shifts at the hospital back then as she could and I learned to be self-directed. Luckily she was a music fanatic and had one of those 8 foot long wooden stereo cabinets loaded with vinyl. All those years of Eagles, Jackson Brown, Bob Seger, Elton John, Commodores ….. well you get it I guess, I was surrounded by what I consider to be the best generation of music in our history. My Dad (who I still have in my life) was a police officer and always helped us any way he could. He and Mom remained very respectful of each other throughout my life and when I was acting up Mom would call him up and hand me the phone. Let’s just say, I’d straighten up after those talks. He always managed to take me hunting and fishing, and interested in sports. I can remember when I was in Kindergarden and him picking me up on his chopper! I was famous and all the kids thought it was cool that I had my own helmet. He has always been the man in my life that I strived to make proud of me because I want to go out of this world with the kind of respect folks have for him. BRIAN: You obviously could move around and live just about anywhere you want with your works skills, but you choose to be here. What is so special about this area that makes this your choice of places to be? JEFF: Well that’s a really long story, but I’ll sum it up quickly. I have left the area, several times in fact and have picked up some pretty amazing knowledge and experience from different ventures, but I believe the old saying about “knowing where home is” is absolutely true, and my heart is more at peace here for some reason or another. I also know so many amazing people here and after I finally got old enough to realize that, I began building a network of people that I may only call once every few years. However, the people I call always get the job done. That’s the real advantage to staying somewhere. When called by my people, I try to always do the same. The last time I “crashed and burned” (4th time now) was during the Great Recession when I was operating two restaurants in Kingsport. I went nearly 16 months without a regular paycheck until I lost my farm. The next day a friend of mine gave me an office and a place to live for a year. At the end of that year, another friend gave me another place to live for a year, and another friend gave me a car ….. and so on, and so on…… That let me know that I was in the right place. While I was rebuilding myself, another friend convinced me to play the music that I had been writing for myself for the last 20 years….. and here we are. BRIAN: They say way leads on to way, so this is the perfect spot for you to let folks know what you do in your career before we get into talking music. What do you do for Horizon and how can folks learn more about them? JEFF: I actually started out with Horizon Credit Union when it was still First Kingsport Credit Union as a consultant, helping with marketing and design projects. I found myself over time working on many other projects as this small
my predicament. He replied with “did I say I was gonna’ charge you?” Like I said, I’ve been lucky. Quentin Horton mentored me and gave me the advice I needed to hear when I needed to hear it. He took me 10 years ahead in about 3 years because I was willing to listen. With Quentin and Matthew, I’ve recorded two full-length Americana/ Honky-Tonk records as the band Hundred Acres, and then following Quentin’s advice I went out on a songwriter mission to figure out more of who I am by travelling constantly to other towns and playing songwriter rounds. That taught me lot and was almost like starting over! I was shaking nervous once again but have now become a much more seasoned front man and guitarist. I’ve played all over the Southeast and shared the stage with some of the best songwriters in the country. After I released an acoustic CD “Best Times” and then decided to focus on the part that’s been trying to get out of me for quite some time now, the strange combination of rock and soul music. I put together a 3-piece and have been wood-shedding for over a year creating a cool new rock-meets-soul & blues show called the Real Life
Heavies! My first band Hundred Acres still plays and records too, and actually we’re playing Racks by the Tracks this year with Webb Wilder and Sawyer Brown!!! BRIAN: I play music, come from a musical background and have taken on projects since I was a kid in some form or another. There are times I have felt like I took on too much, but I have honestly NEVER taken on as much as I see you involved with. So, in all fairness to readers, I am informing them I only have space to ask you about one project this time around. (Yes, that is me leaving the door open to sucker you into another interview sometime.) Your band, The Real Life Heavies, has just produced a brand new album called “If Breaking Bad Was a Band.” Congratulations and please tell folks all about the band, the album and where they can find out more. Go! JEFF: Ha! I’m having the time of my life with this act! We show up dressed in black business suits complete with white shirts and ties, and we deliver a big sexy form of Soul-meets-Blues-meets-Rock-nRoll! We have a damn good time on stage and people can feel it! All my songs still have depth and I take them all over the place from a storyteller standpoint. At our very first appearance as the Real Life Heavies, we played a band open mic in Knoxville. While we were on stage, a woman standing next to the sound man said “If Breaking Bad Was a Band”! Haha! That stuck and turned into this record. In the past year, we’ve learned all kinds of obscure stuff and more importantly about each other. I wanted to make sure that the album didn’t fall into any repetitive song trap, so I wrote songs that play out like a Tarantino movie soundtrack. It switches gears hard and has a tremendous amount of soul energy in it! The rock and roll songs sound like the rock and roll of my influence years (70’s/80’s) and the soul is thick and sleazy like it should be!
Enough’s enough – here’s the linkage man!
www.reallifeheavies.com www.instagram.com/reallifeheavies www.facebook.com/reallifeheavies Also available on iTunes, Amazon, Spotify and pretty much any other music site! In addition, all of my projects can be found through my songwriter website as well: www.jefflanesongwriter.com
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credit union was growing and eventually was offered an actual staff position by the CEO and the COO. When the board of directors approved the job, they told me “oh by the way, you’ll have to handle the IT work too”. Haha, I thought “ah no big deal, how hard could that be?” I was in for quite the surprise, but through trial by fire, including a merger of another credit union and a complete overhaul of operating systems I have now completely moved away from most marketing and have focused my attentions on the ever-growing needs that are IT-related. I never thought I‘d like this stuff but I’m a natural-born problem solver, and I love to learn. This job provides me with as much as I can handle and it really fits me perfectly with its challenges! BRIAN: Ok, now we really can start getting to the meat of this interview. I have seen you play and I will just say, wow! Totally awesome! I know enough about music to know many years of practice and work when I see it. How did you fall in love with music and will you tell us about that early journey for you? JEFF: Thank you Brian! I appreciate the kind words. As I said earlier, my Mother was probably the cause of me falling in love with music and even scraped up the money to get me guitar lessons when I was around 14 I believe. I learned from a great teacher here in Kingsport, Terry McCoy who taught at Joseph’s Music Center on Broad Street. It was quite a different approach than my first Mel Bay Guitar Lessons book. I came out of my first lesson with hand scribbled instructions of how to play “Back in Black” by AC/DC and I was addicted! That was 31 years ago. I never stopped creating my own music, but other than a couple of high school garage bands I didn’t have the guts to lay it out there for the people to see. While I was about to lose my farm (around 2010 I believe) my best friend Matthew Oakes led me into the light at an open mic.night. I was shaking like a leaf. It was at the Bus Pit where the garage doors were rolled up at the sidewalk. When we started playing, a bunch of people came back in to watch me. It was a rush like I’d never experienced before and I was captured by it! Shortly after, I was lucky enough to receive not one, but three phone calls from Quentin Horton who was operating a recording studio in his house. He had seen what I was doing at open mic night and wanted me to come and lay down some tracks. I was too embarrassed to say I couldn’t afford anything at all so I kept just putting it off. That third call he said “this is the third time and I’m getting tired of asking” so I laid down the fact of
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Answers on page 26
Jack is a 2 year old domestic short hair male. He is neutered and up to date on all vaccines. This sweet boy is declawed on all 4 paws and stands up to be petted!
Henry is a one year old male domestic short hair. He is neutered and up to date on all vaccines. He loves to play and is a very friendly cat!
The Bridge Home has an ongoing aluminum can can collection in front of the shelter at 2061 Hwy 75 in Blountville,TN 37617. The cans are collected by a volunteer and the money from the aluminum goes towards badly needed food and supplies for the animals The Bridge Home No Kill Animal Rescue has started a pet food pantry for people that have had financial hardships because of job loss or medical problems and are struggling to feed their pet. They can come by the shelter and get cat or dog food to get through the tough time. Donations can be sent to The Bridge Home Shelter PO Box 654 Blountville, TN 37617 Every animal in their care is spayed or neutered and fully vaccinated before being adopted. Being a non profit the shelter is funded entirely by membership dues and private donations. They always need volunteers or monetary donations.
Other always needed items:pet food, cat litter & cat toys dog treats & dog toys,paper towels, cleaners, office supplies,Purina weight circles. Phone: 423-239-5237 Hours are Mon-Fri 12pm-6pm Sat 12pm-3pm and Sun 2pm-4pm. Website is www. bridgehomerescue@gmail.com or like them on Facebook: www. Facebook.com/bridgehome
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THINGS TO DO Applications being accepted for Citizens Police Academy The Johnson City Police Department is accepting applications for the 46th session of the Citizens Police Academy, which will begin Tuesday, April 18. The nine-week academy is designed to develop a better understanding of the police role in the community through a hands-on approach. Participants must sign required waivers and agreements, have no criminal history, be at least 21 years old, and be physically able to meet training requirements. Participants are expected to attend three-hour weekly sessions and one eight-hour Saturday session, and to ride with a patrol officer for two eight-hour shifts. Applications may be obtained online at www.johnsoncitytn.org/ police and at the Johnson City Police Department, 601 E. Main St. Deadline for registration is Friday, April 7. For more information, please contact Glenda Aschenback at 432-434-6170. ________________
POUND coming to MPCC Memorial Park Community Center, 510 Bert St., will offer POUND, a fitness craze that invites participants to channel their inner rock star with a fullbody cardio jam session of a workout inspired by drumming. Classes will be taught by certified instructor Jessica Bullock from 6:30-7:30 p.m. on Tuesdays. Cost is $5 per class; open to ages 16 and older. Class can be done without drumsticks. Participants may purchase drumsticks at www. poundfit.com or inquire with the instructor about purchase. For more information, call 423434-5749. ________________
computer savvy person who is interested in volunteering to teach computer classes! If you are interested, please contact Dorothy Linton at the on Friday, March 10 and Saturday, Jonesborough Library, dlinton@ March 11 from 8am-1pm both days wclibrarytn.org, or 423-753-1800. ________________ at the Americourt Hotel lobby 1900 American Way Kingsport. Hands On! Calendar of Events They will accept donations for Now thru Sunday, March 12th the sale on Wednesday, March 8 Can You Hear Me Now? and Thursday, March 9. This will Discover some of the smallest raise badly needed funds for the bones in our bodies - the ones animals in our ear! Celebrate Alexander ________________ Graham Bell's birthday by The Kantorei of Concordia learning about sound and how Mr. Bell used sound in many of Theological Seminary his inventions. Play a song on Fort Wayne, IN Will be singing at Bethlehem our palm pipes, listen to our Lutheran Church, 201 E. Watauga singing crystal water glasses, and Avenue, Johnson City on March even try out our Boomwhackers! 10, 2017 at 7:00 p.m. The Kantorei The Eastman Discovery Lab is a select men's choir of fourteen will be open by announcement students studying for the periodically throughout each day. pastoral ministry at Concordia Tuesday, March 14th - Sunday, Theological Seminary in Fort April 2nd - Springtime Science Wayne, IN; directed by Kantor Ring in spring with some fun Kevin Hildebrand, accompanied and silly springtime science by Kantor Matthew Machemer, experiments. You won't believe organist. This approximately your eyes in our growing one hour Lenten worship service marshmallow Peeps experiment, includes several Scripture lessons test out an EGG-cellent floating for the season with choral egg experiment, and even try out responses and congregational some candy chromatography. hymns and canticles. The public The Eastman Discovery Lab is cordially to attend. A reception will be open by announcement will follow the performance. For periodically throughout each day. more information, please call the (***Please note this program may contain peanuts and small parts church at 423-926-5261 ________________ that may not suitable for children under 3 years of age.) Computer Classes
315 E. Main St., Johnson City. 423-434-HAND. ________________ Essential Oils Program at Gray Library Interested in finding out the benefits of essential oils? Come to our program on Saturday, March 11, at 10 a.m. Kelli Bray, with Young Living Essential Oils, will explain what essential oils are, how they have been used, and how to apply them. This program is free and open to the public. Registration is recommended, but not required. Call the front desk for more information at 423-477-1550. ________________ Abingdon Contra Dance The Community Center of Abingdon hosts contra dances twice a month on the second and fourth Saturday. Times will alternate between afternoon dances from 3-6pm and evening dances from 6-9pm to accommodate all schedules. A live caller and band will be on hand for added fun. All ages and levels are welcome. March dances will be held on Saturday, March 11th from 3-6pm with Caller Warren Doyle and March 25th from 6-9pm with caller Terry Doyle. Admission is $7 and full-time students are $5. Family rate is $20. Add to the fun with lessons and country dance waltzing an hour
before each dance with Ashby Dickerson. A lesson for beginner contra dancers will be held in the first 30 minutes of each event. Snacks will be available for purchase. Come as you are; wear soft flexible shoes for dancing. All dances are taught. This dance is smoke and alcohol free. For further information call The Community Center of Abingdon at 276-628-3911 or visit thecommunitycenterofabingdon. com. ________________ Drop-in’ events set for March East Tennessee State University’s Office of Adult, Commuter and Transfer Services will host two “drop-in” events for those interested in starting or completing a college degree at ETSU. The events will take place Friday, March 10, from 5-7 p.m., and Saturday, March 11, from 9 a.m. until noon, at the ETSU Alumni House, 914 W. Maple St. Individuals can drop-in at any time during the events. Parking is available directly behind the Alumni House. Those planning to attend can email acts@etsu.edu or call 423439-5641. For more information, contact Carla Warner at warnerc@ etsu.edu or Jennifer Rice at ricejm@etsu.edu. For disability accommodations, call the ETSU Office of Disability Services at 423-439-8346.
@ the Jonesborough Library Cryptogram: How simple a thing it seems to me that to know ourselves as we are, we must know our mothers' names. Tuesdays @ 2:00 The Jonesborough Library will Drop Quote: "Prosperity is a great teacher; adversity is a greater. Possession pampers the mind; privation trains and strengthens it." offer a series of computer classes on Tuesdays at 2:00 p.m. in March: March 7 – Photo Editing (Richard) March 14 – Android Phone & Tablet (Amanda) March 21 – Email Basics (Jaden) March 28 – Organizing Files on your Computer (Kate) Our classes will be taught by Jonesborough Library staff. These classes are free and open to the public. Space is limited and registration is required. To register, please call the Jonesborough Library at 753Benefit Rummage Sale 1800. If you have a laptop or The Bridge Home No Kill Shelter tablet, you're welcome to bring it. is having a benefit rummage sale We are also looking for a
While randomly poking around for things to write about (something I do a lot), I came across a very interesting column from the August 30, 2013 edition of A.V. Club that posed a particularly provocative (PP) question. Because I have devoted the past twenty--
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Kelly’s Place
By Jim Kelly since 1989 jkelly@ theloaferonline.com
eedless to say, most people would be hard pressed to imagine what it would mean to actually stop pop culture, accustomed as they are to experiencing pop culture as a constant torrent of information and stimulation. Setting aside the fact that most of this torrent is made up of pretty lame stuff, pop culture is the fuel that powers the modern world and the battery that gives voice to our dreams and visions, strange as they sometimes are. I often tell my students that, when all is said and done, there is nothing but pop culture--it’s like the water in which a goldfish swims. Just as the goldfish can’t imagine life outside the fishbowl, we can’t contextualize anything but pop culture. So to ask what might happen if the torrent of pop culture just stopped is like asking if all powerful being can move an immovable object (a favorite parlor game of medieval theologians). The A.V. Club presents several comments from various subscribers who grapple with the question. Following is just a mere sampling. And please keep in mind as you read that, in the world of pop culture, 2013 is a very long time ago, making many of these references seem woefully outdated from our perspective four years later. One respondent commented that if pop culture were to stand still, she could “finish one of the five, half-started issues of The New Yorker I have lying around”; this resonates with me because I have a New Yorker subscription and have yet to read even half of the many issues that are accumulating on my bedstand--I guess it’s enough to know I have a New Yorker handy at all times in case of a literary emergency. A very telling observation comes from Tasha Robinson, who says “There was a time when I would have used this time to get caught up on books, but these days I mostly feel like I’m missing out on TV,” an admission that TV is our modern form of literacy. A respite from pop culture “would do me good to spend a year getting out of my own head and listening to other people talk about the stuff I’m interested in,” admits another respondent. Of course, what would people talk about other than pop culture when they found themselves cut loose from it? When we’re not watching TV, we are talking about watching TV, and when we are not on Facebook, we are talking about being on Facebook. I tend to agree with the person who admitted that “I’m surprised this is such a fantasy for so many people, because for me the idea is downright nightmarish.” And why is it nightmarish? Just think of how accustomed we are to a constant
eight years to ruminating about pop culture, I couldn’t resist trying to answer the question: “If all of pop culture stopped for one year where there were no new movies, TV shows, comics, or albums released, what would you use the time to catch up on? To rewatch?”
stream of movies, TV, music, and social media, and then imagine how hellish the absence of it would be. We would then be left with only the stuff we had already accumulated, which always seems positively ancient when nothing new is pouring in. To be fair, the question posed by the A.V. Club staff doesn’t mean pop culture would cease, but only cease to refresh itself. But I think you get the point. The one thing that unites these comments is the realization that, even with a year’s cessation of new pop culture, we will never be able to consume all we have collected prior to that time. As Sonia Saraiya reminds us, “I’m getting stressed out just thinking about this question. And this doesn’t even touch the huge amounts of literature I haven’t read yet, or the films I want to see. The hardest thing to accept is that some things are just going to fall by the wayside, but I spend most of the time pretending I’ll be able to watch, see, and read it all during this magical year.” The point here is that are so immersed in pop culture that we will never be able, even in multiple lifetimes, to comprehend, much less absorb, even a miniscule portion of all this data. We are literally drowning in data with no life preserver in sight. Some of the things respondents said they would try to do in their year would be to watch the entire Criterion Collection (a goal I share), “read Infinite Jest and Ulysses,” plow through the entire list of “every film on the American Film Institute Top 100,” “get caught up on all the media I’ve bought, but haven’t gotten around to finishing,” “watch the entire run of The Simpsons because I’ve only seen the monorail episode,” get through all the episodes of The Twilight Zone, “travel and absorb what other nations consider their culture, pop or otherwise,” and “listen to Bob Dylan’s complete discography.” Perhaps the most perceptive of these m a n y comments is one from Steve Heisler, who says that “if given this option, I would not do it. To me, the illusion of pop culture is that if I see more, or just the right thing, then somehow more of my life will suddenly have purpose not yet
imaginable. But it’s just that: an illusion. There is no singular thing that can change the course of my history, not even multiple things,” so we are left to pick and choose those things that we perceive will add the most meaning (and diversion) to our all-too-brief lives. Obviously, none of us have the power to turn off the faucet of pop culture, so we should sit back and enjoy the ride, realizing that there will never be enough time to take it all in. As for me, I am looking forward to the birth of my first granddaughter, Clara Lynn, who is scheduled to enter the pop culture mainstream in early August. And this event will be much better and more meaningful than catching up on all those Dick Van Dyke Show episodes I’ve been meaning to watch for several years. As Marvin Gaye so eloquently put it a long time ago, “Ain’t Nothing Like The Real Thing.” See you next week with more stuff from the everchanging world of pop culture.
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A QUESTION OF POP CULTURE
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