The Loafer May 31st by The Loafer

26th Annual Native American Culture Festival

Ride To Rescue: Cruising For Dogs & Cats

Jonesborough Welcomes Anne Rutherford

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BLUE PLUM FESTIVAL

Volume 30 • Issue #26

happenings

Publisher Luci Tate Editor Graphic Arts Director Don Sprinkle

Blue Plum Ups The Tempo

A Lot Of Firsts For This Year’s Blue Plum

Cover Design Bill May

26th Annual Native American Culture Festival

YWCA’s Tribute To Women

Origin Story Of Peter Pan at Barter

Advertising Dave Carter Terry Patterson Lori Howell Beth Jinks-Ashbrook Patti Barr Sam Jones Contributing Staff Jim Kelly Andy Ross Ken Silvers Mark Marquette Brian McManus Joshua Hicks Brian Bishop Daniel Worley Jason Worley 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 (editorial) adcopy@theloaferonline.com (advertising)

10 Vintage Base Ball Coming To Rocky Mount

columns & reviews 16 22 23 24 25 26 28 31 35

Batteries Not Included - ANDYCO Employee Training Manual Stargazer - Tools Are In Your Hands for Summer Stargazing Skies This Week Pop Life - The Angry Birds Movie The Trivial Traveler - The Autoette Society Mountain Movers - The Larry Shively Interview Appalachian Wanderers - Mount Mitchell State Park Lock, Stock & Barrell - Full-Size Rundown Part 1: Glock 17 Kelly’s Place - How Contextually Aware Is Your API?

“Word,” The Storytelling Show @ Willow Tree

Kingsport Theatre Guild Announces 69th Season

New Feature Exhibit at Hands ON!

Emi Sunshine’s Birthday Bash

15 Frederick Ingram at Acoustic Coffeehouse 17 Sister Hazel at Freedom Hall 27 JCCT Presents ROCK OF AGES 29 Storyteller Anne Rutherford 32 Things To Do 33

Pets Of The Week

34 Classifieds

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

HAYDEN GARBER at Bone Fire Smokehouse Saturday, June 4ht

music & fun 20

Spotlight - Great Music & Fun Times

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blue plum ups the teMpo with this year’s headliners Highlight Performances of Blue Plum Festival

lue Plum Music Festival has several headline performances this year including The Mavericks and Steeledrivers which should invite a variety of music for everyone to enjoy. Blue Plum aims to please with this year’s headliners The Steele Drivers and The Mavericks in addition to several other bands. This year’s set list offers a wide range of music presenting Blue Plum festival attendees an opportunity to hear music genres they know and love along with some new music as well. The Steeledrivers bring bluegrass to a modern level which has earned this notable band 3 Grammy award nominations. Their soulful bluegrass can only be described as one of a kind and this is amplified through their success on the contemporary bluegrass scene. Feel free to stand up and sway to the hauntingly beautiful music played in “Ghost of Mississippi” or dance like no one is watching to The Steeledrivers “Reckless”. The Steeledrivers play on Friday, June 3rd on the Blue Plum’s Great Lawn Stage at founders Park from 9:00 to 10:30 assuming the crowed doesn’t demand an encore. To hear music by this band and learn more about their story visit their website thesteeldrivers.com The Mavericks boast their individuality which stems from a combination of their Cuban-American lead singer and intense shows they perform providing both sounds of country and romance. Let loose and move to this bands pure country songs such as “Dance the Night Away” and “All night long”. This vibrant group of musicians not only hold the titles of Vocal Group and Album of the year in group industry awards, but they have also claimed a Grammy award for Best Country Duo/Group Performance. In addition, many of their tours have visited the “Best Of” lists of American Songwriter, The Boston Globe, NPR, Los Angeles Times, and New York Magazine. Having a performance at Nashville’s famous Ryman Auditorium to add to their long list of accomplishments it is no wonder Rolling Stone Country called The Maverick “Country’s coolest, most versatile band...” Don’t miss the Mavericks sure to satisfy performance at Blue Plum’s Great Lawn Stage at Founders Park on Saturday, June 4th from 9:15 to 10:30. Other Blue Plum performances include Scythian who offers high energy music to get up and dance too and was titled “DC’s most energetic and eclectic band”; The Delta Saints playing Blue Grass and describe their sound as “Bourbon-Fueled Bayou-Rock”; The local Johnson City jazz band Jazz Frito Puento; and many more. The Pavilion Stage will include great musicians such as Amythyst Kiah, Greyscale, Earth by Train, Ozone Rangers and The Mudbugs, all free, no ticket required. Storytelling will also happen on the Pavilion Stage both days. Tickets for the Founders Park Great Lawn and Amphitheater Stages can be purchased through the website, blueplum.org for a discounted price through June 3.

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the STeeldrivers

the mavericks

A Lot Of Firsts For This Year’s Blue Plum Festival

he Blue Plum Festival is returning June 3rd and 4th for another outstanding weekend of entertainment and activities. This year’s festival offers many of the same events and activities of previous years, but there are a few new things added to this year’s agenda. This year’s lineup of musical entertainment is sure to impress. Playing on Friday night at 9 p.m. are the Steeldrivers, who recently received a Grammy for Best Bluegrass Album. Saturday night features The Mavericks, who are 2016 Grammy nominees for Best Americana and Americana Music Association Duo/ Group of the Year. Johnson City is lucky to have such an amazing lineup at this year’s festival. “The Blue Plum Organization is thrilled to bring national acts, old favorites, and fantastic local bands to our seventeenth annual festival,” said Shannon Castillo, president of the Blue Plum Organization. Leading up to the headliners is an impressive range of musical artists including Folk Soul Revival, Scythian, Delta Saints, and many more. Tickets for the Founders Park portion of the festival are $25 each day or $40 for the entire weekend and can be purchased in advance before June 3rd at the Blue Plum website at www.BluePlum.Org. The footprint for this year’s event will also include the new downtown pavilion and surrounding streets. This area will complement the Founders Park music with many free activities, music, and entertainment that Blue Plum festival-goers and families have come to expect and appreciate over the years. Numerous food and craft vendors will once again line the streets further showcasing the taste and artistry of southern Appalachia. This year’s festival will also feature a lot of firsts. For the first time, wine will be served in Founders Park. Universal Wine and Spirits is the exclusive sponsor

for wine at this year’s festival. In addition to wine in Founders Park, Blum Plum is also partnering with JRH Brewing Company as the official brewery of Blue Plum. The Blue Plum Festival is happy to have a local, downtown business partner with the festival for this great opportunity. The Blue Hop Brew HaHa will feature craft beer and cider from over 20 breweries and small bites from Bonefish Grill. The brew fest is from 4 pm – 8:30 pm on Saturday, June 4. Tickets are available for those over 21 at blueplum.org. One of the most popular 5K races in the region returns to downtown again this year. The Blue Plum 5K is a great way to get some exercise and see downtown. The race begins and ends at the Lady of the Fountain statue at the corner of Main and Buffalo streets on Friday, June 3rd at 7pm. For children 12 and under there will be the Little Plum Half and features a shorter distance non-timed run through downtown. The Blue Plum 5K is $20 per registrant. The Little Plum Half is $10 per registrant. Registration can be made on the Blue Plum website www.BluePlum. Org. Returning to the festival for its second year is the East 10 Cross Fit event. This event is Friday, June 3rd, from 5 p.m. – 9 p.m. and Saturday, June 4th, from 11 a.m. -6 p.m. Friday’s competition will include the 30-39 division and the 40+ division. The Scaled and RX divisions will compete on Saturday. For more information and to register visit crossfiteast-10.com. The festival will also feature new family friendly opportunities this year. A Children’s Stage is one of the newest elements of Blue Plum. The stage will offer an interactive experience, where children will have the opportunity to learn to play ukulele, learn to swing dance, and learn to hula hoop. Children are encouraged to bring a ukulele if they have one. This year will also feature a ferris wheel to be enjoyed by children and adults alike.

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26th annual Native American Culture Festival at Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park

ycamore Shoals State Historic Park is proud to announce our annual Native American Festival to be held Saturday, and Sunday, June 4th and 5th , 2016. This educational event provides the opportunity for our visitors to experience many facets of Native American culture, particularly that of the Cherokee. The event opens on Saturday, June 4th, running from 10 am until 8:00 pm; and from 11:30 am until 6 pm on Sunday. Most activities are held at Fort Watauga, unless it rains. In the event of rain the show will relocate to the Visitors Center. On Saturday evening, a traditional campfire will be held at the far end of the meadow in front of Fort Watauga at 7:00 pm with several guest storytellers. This weekend long festival will feature traditional and contemporary arts and crafts, traditional Native American song and dance, Cherokee storytelling and legends, Native American flute, Cherokee language workshops, and craft demonstrations and sales. A unique feature of the Native American Culture festival is our educational/ demonstration area, located within Fort Watauga. The dance circle is located in the center of the fort, where the popular traditional dance and drum performances take place. In addition, flute music, storytelling, lectures, and so much more take place within the circle, which share native culture and history with our visitors The interior of the fort will also host a variety of excellent demonstrations, which include a children’s blowgun challenge, beadwork, gourd art, pine needle basketry, stone carving, Cherokee language, wood carving, flint-knapping, corn shuck dolls , native river cane flutes, pottery, and a replicated Cherokee cabin from the early 19th century with historical reenactors, Mark and Sherry Finchum. Just outside the fort, exceptional Native American arts and crafts will be featured, in addition to ethnic Cherokee food, and a Lakota Tipi exhibit. In our annual tradition, the circle will host several performances of Native American music, drum, and dance. The dancing demonstrations will include the Fancy Dance and Hoop Dance, the Jingle Dance, the Men’s Traditional, Grass and Straight Dances, and many more. All are invited to dance, so bring your regalia. Newly added will be a demonstration of 18th century Cherokee social dancing. The host of this portion of the event, Dale Cloer, makes his home in Cherokee, North Carolina. Our featured Cherokee dancers are internationally known hoop dancer Eddie Swimmer, Head Man Jeff Kemp, and champion powwow dancer Nikki Crisp! Eddie Swimmer has captivated au-

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SYCAMORE ... continued on next page

festival

SYCAMORE ... continued from previous page diences across the globe using between 36 and 42 hoops. His accomplishments include a former World Champion Hoop Dancer title, performances in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City and in the World Cup Soccer Tournament in Dallas Texas as well as choreographing the Broadway show hoop dance for ANNIE GET YOUR GUN. Jeff Kemp has competitively placed in many powwows across the Southeastern United States for many years and has been the featured lead male dancer in a multitude of Native American Festivals. He also participates in many educational programs for schools and community events. Nikki Crisp as danced across the world as well, and has been performing for over 20 years. Her talents also include traditional beadwork and authentic frybread cooking. Nikki Crisp will be providing food vending for this event, including her famous Indian tacos. Our 2016 featured storyteller is Freeman Owle. He is a noted lecturer, historian, and member of the Eastern Band of Cherokee, and has traveled all over the eastern United States lecturing to various groups, which include churches, military units, and schools. Freeman Owle has told stories and presented programs on Cherokee history and culture throughout the Southeast for more than ten years. Well known in the Cherokee community, Freeman Owle serves on the board of directors of the Qualla Arts and Crafts Mutual and is a coordinator for the Cherokee Heritage Trails project of the Blue Ridge Heritage Initiative. He is one of the featured storytellers in the book Living Stories of the Cherokee, and he also appears in the video documentary Cherokee: The Principal People, which aired on public television in North Carolina, South Carolina, and Kentucky. Daniel Bigay of Greeneville, TN will entertain with traditional flute music in addition to having his handmade, traditional Cherokee style flutes for sale. Daniel is a flute maker, Artist, Performer/Recording Artist, and demonstrator, who lives with his wife, Kay, in the mountains of Tennessee. He has released two CD’s, the most recent being nominated for best flute recording at the 2005 Indian Summer Music Awards. Daniel and Kay are passionate about education and sharing of the Cherokee culture in the school system, at Pow-Wow’s, and various shows and festivals. Admission is $5.00 per adult, $1.00 for children. All proceeds from admissions go to Friends of Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park, to support this event. This event is made possible by the support of Friends of Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park, the DoubleTree by Hilton, and the Comfort Inn of Johnson City. For information contact: Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park (423) 543‑5808. 1651 W. Elk Avenue, Elizabethton, TN 37643 • www.sycamoreshoalstn.org theloaferonline.com | May 31, 2016 | 7

ywca’s 25th tribute to women

Honoring more than 160 past recipients with dinner and a special guest performance

n June 2, 2016, YWCA Bristol will celebrate the 25th Tribute to Women at Paramount Bristol. The annual event honors women

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from across the region who are a catalyst for their business, community or organization. To mark this milestone year the YWCA will acknowledge all of the past recipients, nominators, and community sponsors of Tribute to Women with a cocktail supper at Bristol Train Station followed by a celebration of 25 years of Tribute to Women, and a performance by Kellye Cash Sheppard, Miss America 1987, entertainer, and niece of country music legends Johnny Cash and June Carter Cash at Paramount Bristol. Kellye Cash Sheppard has made numerous television appearances and performed alongside several well-known artists such as, Bob Hope, Johnny Cash and Lee Greenwood. Kellye has played the part of Patsy Cline in productions and tours of the musical, “Always...Patsy Cline.” In addition, she was part of the production of “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” in Branson, MO. She starred in “Ring of Fire” at Cumberland County Playhouse in Crossville TN and played to sold out houses as “Annie Oakley” in “Annie Get Your Gun”. Kellye is currently preparing for her role in “Mamma Mia” in the summer of 2016. The YWCA is pleased to bring Kellye Cash Sheppard to Bristol to perform selections from Broadway musicals at Paramount Bristol as part of the 25th Tribute to Women celebration. Tribute to Women gives companies and individuals the opportunity to highlight the significant work of female leaders in their organization or community. Each year women are honored for their role in art, education, professional achievement or community service. Nominations for new Tribute to Women recipients will resume in 2017, but for this momentous occasion, the program will honor the women who have been recipients over the last 25 years. “Tribute to Women recipients are living examples of the YWCA mission. These empowered women deserve a night dedicated to honoring their accomplishments while inspiring future generations of women. In 25 years, this event has raised over $2 million and honored more than 160 women thanks to dedicated sponsors, nominators and volunteers, and we are excited to begin the next 25 years of Tribute to Women” states Kathy Waugh, Executive Director of YWCA Bristol. Thanks to these confirmed event sponsors The United Company Foundation, Strongwell, Rose Marie Burriss, Wells Fargo, BurWil Construction Company, First Tennessee, and Bristol Herald Courier for sponsoring the event and for supporting the YWCA and families in the region. The proceeds from this event go to support the crucial programs offered by the YWCA such as affordable childcare, teen pregnancy programs, TechGYRLS and many other valuable offerings. Tickets are $125 each and are available for purchase by visiting YWCA Bristol in person at 106 State Street in Bristol, TN or by visitingwww.ywcabristol. org.

Kellye Cash Sheppard Miss America 1987

CRITICALLY-ACCLAIMED ORIGIN STORY OF PETER PAN

ARRIVES AT BARTER THEATRE WITH IMAGINATIVE FAMILY FUN

eveloped by Disney, “Peter and the Starcatcher” brings rambunctious summer fun to Barter Theatre beginning June 9. “Peter and the Starcatcher” shows audiences a nameless, homeless young boy who conquers countless challenges and is transformed into Peter Pan. Discover how Peter Pan became an ageless hero as this story unfolds with more than 100 unforgettable characters. Orphaned and alone, the boy, who becomes Peter Pan, meets an exceptional young girl, a true leader in a time when most girls were followers. Together they journey the high seas and battle the dastardly Black Stache, a pirate who continues to terrorize the seven seas in search of a worth adversary. Based on the world-famous Starcatcher Series by Dave Barry and Ridley Pearson, this former Broadway play has been commended in every corner of the country for its imagination, adventure and inspiration. Director Katy Brown said, “’Peter and the Starcatcher’ is such a tour d’force of imagination. In this play, there are pirates, shipwrecks, adventure, swashbuckling, comedy, chase scenes on land and sea, and so much more. This play reminds us that anyone can go to Neverland anytime, and that the child in us is still able to fly if we just let our imaginations soar.” “Peter and the Starcatcher” is made possible by the corporate sponsorship of Johnston Memorial Hospital. Barter Theatre is funded in part by The Virginia Commission for the Arts and The National Endowment for the Arts. Tickets to “Peter and the Starcatcher” start at $20 and can be purchased at bartertheatre.com or by calling the box office at 276-628-3991.

Molly Aster and the Boy look wondrously into the stars.

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Vintage base ball coming to Rocky Mount

nyone interested in history and America’s national pastime is invited to witness a match of bare-handed base ball at noon on Saturday, June 4, at Rocky Mount State Historic Site, 200 Hyder Hill Road. At that time, two teams from the Tennessee Association of Vintage Base Ball (TAOVBB), the Knoxville Holstons and the Emmett Machinists of Knoxville, will play nine innings of 1864 base ball, wearing period-appropriate attire and following the rules and customs of the Civil War-era. The fun, educational event is the result of a partnership between the Rocky Mount Historical Association, the East Tennessee State University Department of History and the TAOVBB. “The Emmett Machinists are looking forward to playing on such a beautiful field,” says Jeremy “Haymaker” Hubbs, co-captain of the team. “The Machinists are ready to take the grounds of Rocky Mount with vim and vigor, as we aim to put on a splendid showing for the good people of Piney Flats and beyond.” Attendees of the match will be transported back to a time when base ball (two words in the 1860s) was in its infancy. Gloves were not yet used. A ball could be caught on the bounce for “one-hand dead” (an out). And one umpire oversaw the entire field, at times calling on members of the crowd to help determine close plays. “The Holstons enjoy playing before a lively crowd,” adds Ken “Molasses” Mayes, co-captain of the Holstons. “It is our hope that many families will come out to this special match, the first for Northeast Tennessee. Feel free to interact with the teams. We love to greet fans, share the history of the game, and take likenesses!” The match will take place in the field near the entrance gate of Rocky Mount. “We are grateful for the opportunity to celebrate another element of America’s heritage by inviting people to our grounds for a wonderful celebration of baseball history,” said Gary Walrath, Rocky Mount’s executive director. “Rocky Mount has proudly showcased our region’s history with our first-person interpretation of life in 1791, and we are now excited to help people understand the early days of one of the nation’s most beloved sports.”

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Dr. Tom Lee, a history professor at ETSU, shares the enthusiasm. “Come see the bowler hurl the apple and the strikers swinging for stingers and aces,” Lee said. “Bring your family, your friends, and your baseball or softball team. Show your support for local history while having a fun day and celebrating an American tradition!” Since its inaugural season in 2013, the TAOVBB has grown to include 10 vintage base ball clubs in Nashville, Knoxville and Chattanooga. As revived iterations of Tennessee’s historic base ball teams, TAOVBB member clubs combine living history with sport, organizing barehanded, Civil War-era base ball games to educate and entertain their communities. TAOVBB ballists, or base ball players, adhere to rules and customs of 1864, wearing period-appropriate uniforms and using historically-correct equipment. All regular season matches of the TAOVBB are free and open to the public. The TAOVBB is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit educational organization supported by donations and organized by volunteers. Rocky Mount’s gates will open at 10 a.m. Festivities will begin at 11 a.m., including games for children, crafts, opportunities to meet the ballists and music by members of the Johnson City Community Band. The match will begin at noon with a parade of the nines (teams) to the field, a ceremonial throwing of the first pitch, and a bat toss to determine which club will strike first. After the game, ballists will be available to talk with fans and pose for photographs. Concessions will be available on site, but attendees are invited to bring blankets or lawn chairs and a picnic and enjoy dinner on the ground while watching the spectacle unfold. Picnic tables are available near the museum. There is no charge to attend, but donations to cover expenses are welcomed. The museum and historic buildings at Rocky Mount State Historic Site will be open for tours at the regular charge. Except in the event of heavy storms, thunder or lightning, the game will go on as planned. Should the game be cancelled, it will not be rescheduled this season. The field area and the museum are handicapped accessible. Temporary bathroom facilities will be provided near the field, and restrooms in the museum will be available for use. For more information, call Rocky Mount at 423-538-7396 or toll-free at 1-888-538-1791, or email info@ rockymountmuseum.com. More information about the TAOVBB is available at www.tennesseevintagebaseball.com and on Twitter (@TaoVBB) and Facebook www.facebook.com/taovbb). Additional information on Rocky Mount may be found at www.rockymountmuseum.com.

“WORD”

@ The Willow Tree

avid Joe Miller Presents is bringing three Moth Story Slam champions to The Willow Tree Coffee House and Music Room on Thursday June 2nd for “WORD,” the storytelling show! The vastly popular Moth Story Slam Podcast Series is recognized worldwide from it’s presence on NPR and it’s well attended “Stories Told Live” stage series. In October of 2014, The Moth arrived in Asheville and presents a Story Slam every third Thursday. Raymond Christian, Steve Shell and Peter Lutz are all champions of that slam. Raymond is a former paratrooper in the U.S. Army and currently teaches history at Appalachian State University. Steve is a performance poet and teacher in Asheville and Peter is a filmmaker based in Asheville.

All three are incredible storytellers and will share their talents on the stage of The Willow Tree, 216 East Main Street on Thursday evening, June 2nd at 7pm. “WORD” Tickets are 12 at the door or 10 online at Eventbrite.com. Please arrive early for best seat selection and to order drinks and food from the menu at The Willow Tree. David Joe Miller is the executive producer of David Joe Miller Presents and is an veteran of the storytelling stage and former staff storyteller for the National Storytelling Association in Jonesborough. We are SO excited for this opportunity to bring some of The Moth Story Slam talent to East Tennessee. “Stories Told Live” is a series that everyone can relate to and participate in at Moth Story Slam venues across the nation. Our show “WORD” is a way for us to share some of those stories with a new audience. davidjoemiller.com

The Has Beens Big Band Concert and Dance

To Benefit the Shepherd Center of Kingsport Presented by The Cosmopolitan Kiwanis Club And The Shepherd Center of Kingsport.

Tuesday, June 7, 2016, 7:00 pm-9:00 pm @ St. Dominic Catholic Church, Kingsport, Tennessee. Tickets are $10 and are available by calling the Shepherd Center Office at 423-392-4514

Silent Auction and Hors D’oeuvres

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Kingsport Theatre Guild announces 69th season

ingsport Theatre Guild announces its 69th, and biggest ever, season with a record 13 shows spanning 21 weekends. The 20162017 schedule consists of 8 productions, including 3 musicals, in their “KTG:Mainstage” series and 5 in the recently developed “KTG:Downtown” series. Each month, August – May, will showcase some of Kingsport’s most talented actors, directors, and technical crews in many different genres of shows. KTG’s Mainstage venue is located in the historic Renaissance Center Theatre on Center Street, just outside Downtown Kingsport. The facility can seat approximately 330, when utilizing the additional balcony space, and has one of the best technical setups of community theatres in this area. KTG’s Mainstage kicks off the 2016-2017 season in August with the popular Disney musical “High School Musical” followed by “The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe” in September. October brings Halloween and “An Evening with Edgar Allen Poe” followed immediately by the fairytale musical “Into the Woods.” December brings us two traditional one-act plays, “Believe! & Follow the Star”, combined for one lovely performance complete with full nativity scene and Christmas story. The Mainstage season continues in February with “Diary of a Wallflower” and wraps up

with “Oklahoma!” in March and “Little Women” in May. All 8 Mainstage shows will have school showings offered and will be presented on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday for two weekends. KTG:Downtown shows will continue to run one weekend only with a 7:00 p.m. show time on Thursday, Friday and Saturday evening. The Downtown series opens the 2016-2017 Season in August with the 2015 KTG Playwriting Competition winner, “Look to the Stars”, followed by the classic thriller from 1948, “Sorry, Wrong Number”, in November. The new year will be ushered in with “Driving Miss Daisy” in January. KTG then offers a Valentine treat in February with “Crimes of the Heart” and wraps up the Downtown series with “The Importance of Being Earnest” in April. KTG is a community theatre and auditions and crew positions are open to all. Teaching is a large part of KTG’s mission, so actors and crew members of all experience levels are welcomed and encouraged. Beyond acting, KTG is always looking for community members who can sew, build, paint, sweep, usher, make popcorn, etc. For more information, visit KingsportTheatre.org or call (423) 392-8427

High School Musical • KTG:Mainstage

Auditions: June 6 & 7 – 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. • Show Dates: August 12, 13, 19, 20 @ 7 p.m. and August 13, 14, 20, 21 @ 2 p.m. Disney Channel’s smash hit movie musical comes to life! Troy, Gabriella and the students of East High must deal with issues of first love, friends, and family while balancing their classes and extracurricular activities. It’s the first day after winter break at East High. The Jocks, Brainiacs, Thespians, and Skater Dudes find their cliques, recount their vacations, and look forward to the new year. Basketball team captain and resident jock, Troy, discovers that the brainy Gabriella, a girl he met singing karaoke on his ski trip, has just enrolled at East High. They cause an upheaval when they decide to audition for the high school musical that is being led by Ms. Darbus. Although many students resent the threat posed to the “status quo,” Troy and Gabriella’s alliance might just open the door for others to shine as well. Disney’s High School Musical is fun for the whole family.

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Hands On! Museum Opens New Feature Exhibit

ands On! Museum has announced its new feature exhibit for summer 2016 - Make It. Take It. The exhibit opened May 28th and features 3,000 square feet of interactive space for Museum visitors to make something completely from their imagination. This immersive fun lab is for children and their families to slow down together, create, and explore scientific ideas. The goal of this exhibition is to bring families together and allow them to investigate, tinker, and problem solve. “The exhibit is the perfect contradiction to our ever growing digital world and a great excuse for families to come to the Museum and put their phones away” said Andy Marquart, Executive Director, “This exhibit will allow our visitors to take an introductory and engaging look into the maker movement.” In this DIY space guests of all ages will get to use a large assortment of everyday materials and are encouraged to create something that represents their imagination or ideas. Every few weeks the materials and theme of the space will change to keep engaging visitors with new challenges and experiences. Visitors are encouraged to take their invention, contraption, or piece of art home with them. The Museum’s summer hours will be Monday - Friday 9:00 am - 5:00 pm, Saturday9:00 am - 6:00 pm, and Sunday 1:00 - 5:00 pm. Admission to the Museum is $9.00 per person. Annual memberships are available. Hands On! Museum, located at 315 E. Main St. in downtown Johnson City, is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that serves 70,000 visitors annually. Centrally located in downtown Johnson City, Hands On! hosts school groups from 40 counties in four different states and visitors from across the U.S. Visit online at handsonmuseum.org or call (423) 434-HAND.

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EMI SUNSHINE’S BIRTHDAY BASH CONCERT

WITH SPECIAL GUEST FIDDLIN’ CARSON PETERS

June 5, 2016, Branch House Event Center, 441 Horton Highway, Fall Branch, TN

mi Sunshine is celebrating her 12th birthday with a special Birthday Bash Concert. Fiddlin’ Carson Peters has agreed to join her for this event being held at Branch House Event Center, 441 Horton Highway, Fall Branch, TN. The Bash kicks off with a VIP dinner (ticketed event) starting at 3pm. Tickets are available on line at www.emisunshine.ticketleap.com. VIP dinner tickets are $28.00 (includes dinner and concert). The dinner consists of a choice of Bar-B-Que, chicken or meatloaf, 5 sides, bread, drink, birthday cake and several varieties of homemade ice cream. The meal is being catered by the Branch House. The doors will open at 2:30pm for the VIP dinner. Concert tickets are $20.00. Doors will open at 6:30 pm for the 7:00pm concert featuring Emi Sunshine and Carson Peters. Concert tickets may be purchased on line and if available at the door. Tickets: emisunshine.ticketleap.com for information: 423-943-0514 or dejim1pro@gmail.com EMI SUNSHINE Emi performs about 150 shows per year. She has appeared on the Today Show, PBS Song of the Mountain, and Marty Stuart’s Late Night Jam at the Ryman during CMA Music Fest. Emi is one of the youngest artists to play the Grand Ole Opry. After performing at Merle Fest just recently, Emi and the Rain flew to the West Coast where they just completed a tour of several West Coast States. She performs in churches, festivals, theaters, and for a time, talent shows. “One day I decided I didn’t want to do talent shows anymore because you could see the kids’ disappointment and it didn’t make me happy,” she says. What makes me want to do this is I just love it,” she says. “I just really, really love it. I wouldn’t trade anything not to do this

CARSON PETERS Twelve-year-old Carson Peters, or “Fiddlin’ Carson Peters,” as he is becoming known, is a true musical prodigy. He is quickly making a name for himself with his fiddle by winning competitions and entertaining audiences across the region. Bristol Rhythm and Roots, Dollywood’s Bluegrass and BBQ, Asheville’s Bluegrass First Class, Song of the Mountains and a live broadcast on WDVX in Knoxville to list a few. Carson has also had the honor to play on national TV as a guest on NBC’s The Tonight Show with Jay Leno in August of 2013 and has appeared on the Grand Ole Opry several times. He appeared on Little Big Shot, with Steve Harvey in April 2016. He just returned from his first performance in Branson! Carson also plays music with his special friends, Howard and Vivian Hammonds, Headed Home.

RIDE TO RESCUE: Cruising for dogs & cats

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oin us on June 11 at the Appalachian Fairgrounds for Ride to RESCUE: Cruising for the Dogs & Cats, hosted by Jurnee Carr – Founder of Jurnee’s Journey: Helping All God’s Creations and Miss Tennessee International 2016. Founded in 2007 by Jurnee Carr, Jurnee’s Journey seeks to promote the importance of adopting from a shelter and spay/neutering to control pet population. Ride to RESCUE is a motorcycle and hot rod show and run dedicated to giving back to help area shelters. All proceeds from this event will go directly back to seeing Jurnee’s Journey mission of adoption and spay/neuter through. Registration will begin at the fair main entrance at 9:30 am, followed by the Best Beard and Best Tattoo Contest at 10:30 am. Kickstands up at 11 am with a route from Gray to Sulphur Springs then Johnson City, and returning to Gray for lunch and the Best Bike and Best Hot Rod Contest at noon. Everyone is welcome! Bring your friends for a great time benefitting a great cause! For more information or to pre-register your group, please e-mail Jurnee Carr at jurneesjourney@gmail.com

this week @ Acoustic Coffeehouse From Mountains to Sea and Back Again: Mountain Empire’s Acoustic Culture Sparked Return to Music for S.C. Songwriter Frederick Ingram

rederick Ingram holds a special affinity for the Mountain Empire. He lived in Johnson City briefly in the mid 1990s, and this is where a passion for music was rekindled, with acoustic culture. “There were instruments everywhere. I was captivated by guitars themselves, not just the songs,” he says. “The romance of wood and steel took hold.” An English major in college, Ingram calls himself “A Bard for Our Time,” and says he treats his songs like literature. “There is a space here, in the various flavors of popular music, with the potential to be exploited by poets. I’m going to write the richest language I can. It ain’t always an easy sell,” he says, but points to literate pop stars such as Sting and Peter Gabriel, as well as the traditional balladeer, as role models. Another basis of inspiration for his craft is the natural world, which surfaces throughout his material. (A photo of Lake Watauga graces his 2008 EP, Wilderness.) His last release, Elements, broods on the all-consuming nature of the weather and the landscape, and immerses itself in the colors of the seashore on “Carolina Sands.” That song brought him all the way to the eye of the universe, Manhattan, where he performed it in-store for Adorama’s educational series on capturing live music videos. Ingram has been a repeat performer at the Buffalo Valley Folk Festival (now moving to Utah). He has headlined the acoustic stage at Raleigh’s SPARKcon, and opened for Shakespeare productions elsewhere in the Carolinas. Still DIY as opposed to “indie,” he is beginning to tour more regularly, performing at venues from farmers markets to Fortune 500 offices. Frederick Ingram http://www.frederickingram.com) appears at the Acoustic Coffeehouse Wednesday, June 1, at 8 p.m.

Kamber @ acoustic coffeehouse

ongwriter and central Florida native Kamber is a natural storyteller, and she paints a picture with each lyrics she pens. Her distinct vocals and passion for the craft of songwriter propels her sound. A classically trained pianist and composer, Kamber has been writing since she was 14. Following Kamber’s graduation from a music program and relocation to Nashville, her band was formed, a fusion of old and new friends. Although Kamber’s writing style is influenced by intelligent pop artists such as Imogen Heap, Tori Amos, and Sia, she also draws upon a love for rock acts ranging from Nirvana to Underoath. Kamber’s ambitious debut EP was released in November 2014, its production handled by members of her band. The three-track effort seamlessly blends creative storytelling, intricate piano work, and timeless guitar-driven rock - sewn together by Kamber’s unmistakable voice. Kamber is currently in the studio working on some new music and is about to embark on a summer solo tour to support the Hurry Up EP. Kamber appears at Acoustic Coffeehouse, Thursday, June 2nd. theloaferonline.com | May 31, 2016 | 15

AndyCo Employee Training Manual

ongratulations! You’re now a part of an elite team! You can now say “I’m one of them! I’m a part of the hard working women and men who help make AndyCo what it is.” Now that you’ve been hired you’re first step into becoming a good employee is to read this manual full of tips and tricks on how you can make AndyCo an even more unstoppable monopoly. AndyCo is a diverse corporation with strong interests in internet things and printed media. AndyCo is teacher, mother, secret lover. It’s all under the leadership of our founder and CEO, Andy Ross. How To Interact With Andy Ross: Yes, chances are you’ll see Andy Ross himself wandering the halls of the office. It could be in the morning, afternoon, or at night when he’s working late on his next masterwork. Whatever you do, never make direct eye contact with Andy, make sure he’s spoken to you first, or else you’ll bring upon a tantrum that could strike fear into a jackalope. Oh, and at the annual company retreat, God help you if you don’t enjoy his breathtaking karaoke rendition of “Purple Rain.” How To Be A Good Employee: We have a saying around here at AndyCo to help you to be the best worker you can be. Just remember BOGGLE. What does BOGGLE mean? It’s simple! BOGGLE

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stands for Be Open Going Gallivantly, Larry Ester! Larry Ester was the finest employee AndyCo ever had. Tragically, he died in a combine accident in 2002. It’s our way of remembering Larry by reminding every employee to BOGGLE! Dealing with Office Rumors: As with any environment in which human persons are gathered, it’s common for Office Gossip to happen. Though we don’t encourage office rumors and gossip, we know it can’t be avoided and have no strict policy against it. However, we do think it’s important to put a stop to some of the more common rumors about the AndyCo offices. First of all, it’s common folklore around here that Andy Ross is actually 103 years old, and instead of aging, there’s a portrait in his attic that reflects his true age, and a multitude of sins. That’s just hogwash. Mr. Ross is a healthy and perfectly normal 30 years of age, he just acts as if he’s been around for 103 years. Break Room Etiquette: Does AndyCo have a break room? It’s a question we ourselves often wonder. There is that weird hallway with the vending machine that looks to be 30 years old, and that one Keruig next to that sink that needs to be cleaned. We’ve heard rumors that there is a break room through that tiny door next to the stairwell, and that’s it’s a strange, backwards, void where up is down and down is up. Supposedly only Andy has ever been in there. That would explain a lot, wouldn’t it? I’m going to go down there and investigate that room for myself after I finish this. Tell my wife and kids I love them if I don’t return. There you have it! Everything you need to know about your new career here at AndyCo! It’s a great place to work! No. Seriously, it really is! Peace, love, and avoiding eye contact with Andy be with you.

SISTER HAZEL TO HEADLINE

latinum-selling group, Sister Hazel, will be performing for the Kingsport Firefighters Association at the Freedom Hall Civic Center Arena Sunday, June 5. The show will debut some of the brand-new Sister Hazel songs like “Kiss Me Without Whiskey”as well as popular fan favorites like “All For You.” Doors open at 5:30pm. For additional information visit: www.kingsportfirefighters.org. In their first showing on the country music charts, platinumselling band, Sister Hazel, made a strong debut with “Lighter In The Dark” at #4 on Billboard’s Top Country Albums chart, #6 on Billboard’s Independent Albums chart, #30 on Billboard’s Top Current Albums chart, and #79 on the Billboard 200 album chart. Sister Hazel’s new video “That Kind of Beautiful” premieres on CMT 4/26/16. For more information on Sister Hazel visit: www.sisterhazel. com. Follow Sister Hazel @SisterHazelBand and https://www. facebook.com/SisterHazel.**Suggested Tweet: @SisterHazelBand Debuts on Billboard Country Albums at #4 with “Lighter in the Dark” Originating from Gainesville, FL, Sister Hazel is comprised of five gifted, seasoned musicians whose well-spring of natural talent has been called “one of the Top 100 Most Influential Independent Performers of the last 15 years” by Performing Songwriter Magazine. Song “All for You” topped the adult alternative charts during the summer of 1997 and the success propelled

FREEDOM HALL CIVIC CENTER ARENA SUNDAY, JUNE 5

their album to platinum status. Sister Hazel has been equally attentive to connecting with their audience through social media. In their first showing on the country music charts they made a strong debut with “Lighter In The Dark” at #4 on Billboard’s Top Country Albums chart, #6 on Billboard’s Independent Albums chart, #30 on Billboard’s Top Current Albums chart and #79 on the Billboard 200 album chart. Living up to their fan-centered reputation, the band hosts annual events like “Hazelnut Hang,” that focuses on fan involvement and are co-founders of the Rockboat, a cruise featuring nonstop opportunities for fan/artist interaction. In addition to the events and touring, the band also gives back with Lyrics For Life. Founded by singer Ken Block, the charity unites musicians and celebrities for concerts and auctions to benefit cancer research and patient-care charities.

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S O LG T P

T I

- TUESDAY - May 31st -

JOHNSON CITY JAMS

at The Willow Tree Coffeehouse & Music Room 5pm

OPEN MIC at Acoustic Coffeehouse DOWNTOWN COUNTRY at Jiggy Ray’s 6:30pm - WEDNESDAY - June 1st -

PRINCE TRIBUTE SHOW at Down Home SCOTTY MELTON at Hungry I at the Apex 6pm

OPEN MIC

at The Willow Tree Coffeehouse & Music Room

FREDERICK INGRAM

(Singer/songwriter / Folk Rock / Alternative) at Acoustic Coffeehouse

- THURSDAY - June 2nd -

LIVE MUSIC

at Sonny’s Marina & Cafe 7pm

THE DUO TONES at Marker “2” Grill SOUTHERN 76 at Full Moon Jam - Bristol Downtown Center

WAYLAND - Acoustic Style

- FRIDAY - June 3rd -

SHOOTER (Country, Classic Rock, Oldies) at State Line Bar & Grill 7pm

LAURA THURSTON (Folk)

at The Country Club Bar & Grill 9pm

6pm

at Paramount Center for the Arts

AMYTHYST KIAH 4pm MY NEW FAVORITES 6pm THE STEEL DRIVERS 9pm at Blue Plum Festival

ALAN RHODY

at Music on the Square - Jonesborough 7pm

IF BIRDS COULD FLY at Bristol Brewery 8pm

INDIGHOST

at The Hideaway 8pm

at Quaker Steak & Lube 7pm

THE DIRK QUINN BAND ELLIOT ROOT at Bristol’s Border Bash MARK LARKINS

at Abingdon Market Pavillion 7pm

ANDY FERRELL TRIO

at O’Mainnin’s Pub

HB BEVERLY

at Holston River Brewing Company 7pm

BELOW 7 (Rock)

JOHN MORELAND

LAURA THURSTON (Folk)

at Our House Restaurant 7pm

at Bone Fire Smokehouse 9pm at Painter Creek Marina 7pm

MIKE BENTLEY & CUMBERLAND CONNECTION

EXIT 23 (Country, Southern Rock, Americana) at Holston River Brewing Company 8pm

MARSHALL BALLEW

at Country Club Bar & Grill

at Twilight Alive - Kingsport at Bone Fire Smokehouse

KAMBER / LOOSE LEAVES at Acoustic Coffeehouse 8pm

- FRIDAY - June 3rd -

CRAZY LIKE LEXI

at Sonny’s Marina & Cafe 7pm

THE KINDEST PEOPLE WAITING FOR PAVEMENT FIELD NOTES at Capone’s CALAMITY JONES BAND (formerly The Jones Boys) at Marker “2” Grill

MEMBERS ONLY - 80’s Party Band at Twilight Alive - Kingsport

JERRY PIERCE & THE NIGHTLIFE BAND at JC Senior Center 7pm

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JIGSAW JANE

SHAWN HAGAN / LAURA THURSTON at Acoustic Coffeehouse 8pm

- SATURDAY - June 4th -

SOUTHERN REBELLION

(Country, Classic Rock, Southern Rock) at Sonny’s Marina & Cafe 7pm

ALI RANDOLPH & THE OUTTA LUCK BAND at Marker “2” Grille 7pm HIDDEN VALLEY BOYS at The Family Barn 7:30

THE BAND J4 4pm SCYTHIAN 8pm LOOSE LEAVES at The Next Door 7pm BLUE REIGN

BELOW 7 (Rock) at Bobarosa EARTH SUITS & BLUE CARPET CORNER

SOUTHERN 76 at The Family Barn TUNES AT NOON

- SATURDAY - June 4th -

at Blue Plum Festival

at Jiggy Ray’s 8pm

at Yee Haw Brewing Company 8pm

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.

SUNDOWN BAND (Country) at David Thompson’s Produce

THE BOSSES at Erwin’s Rotary Dog Day 9:30am BRITTANY BEXTON at Jiggy Rays 8pm SHOOTER (Country, Classic Rock, Oldies) at The Show Palace 7pm

EXIT 23 at Holston River Brewing Company 9pm THE COMET CONDUCTORS OF SEA & SHORE / EARTH SUITS at Capone’s

INANIMATE EXISTENCE at The Hideaway 7pm

DIRK QUINN BAND at Sleepy Owl Brewery 8pm

THE GRAND OLE’ UPROAR at O’Mainnin’s Pub

FIRESIDE COLLECTIVE

at Yee Haw Brewing Company 7pm

TUNE TOWN w/ LEON FROST at Carter Fold

RON SHORT & THE POSSUM PLAYBOYS at Bristol Brewery HAYDEN GARBER at Bone Fire Smokehouse

PHILOS MOORE / STERLING SPRINGS at Acoustic Coffeehouse 10 pm

- SUNDAY - June 5th -

IVY ROAD at Marker “2” Grille JAMES MEADOWS at Sonny’s Marina & Cafe 4pm

JAM SESSION at The Family Barn 1pm BILL & THE BELLES at Bone Fire Smokehouse

OPEN MIC

at Acoustic Coffeehouse 8pm

- MONDAY - June 6th -

JERRY PIERCE & THE NIGHTLIFE BAND at JC Moose Lodge 8pm BILLY CRAWFORD BAND

THE MCFROSTY ANGELS

AMYTHYST KIAH 1pm

OPEN MIC at Acoustic Coffeehouse

at Painter Creek Marine 7pm

at Bristol’s Pickin’ Porch

BLUEGRASS JAM

Hardee’s (Boones Creek) 6:30pm

Spotlight Directory Acoustic Coffeehouse 415 W Walnut St. Johnson City 423/434.9872 Bone Fire Smokehouse at the Hardware 260 W Main St Abingdon Va 276/623-0037 Bristol Brewery 41 Piedmont Ave Bristol VA 276/ 608-1220 Bristol’s Pickin’ Porch 620 State St Bristol 423/573-2262 Capone’s 227 E Main St Johnson City 423/928-2295 Carter Family Fold 3449 A. P. Carter Hwy Hiltons VA 276/594-0676 Country Club Bar & Grill 3080 W State St Bristol 423/844-0400 Down Home 300 W. Main St. Johnson City 423/929-9822 Family Barn 15559 Lee Hwy Bristol VA Full Moon Jam Bristol Downtown Center 423/ 989-5500 The Hideaway 235 E. Main St Johnson City 423/ 926-3896 Holiday Inn (Exit 7) 3005 Linden Dr Bristol Va 276/466-4100 Holston River Brewing Company 2621 Volunteer Pkwy Bristol TN Horseshoe Lounge 908 W. Market St. Johnson Ciy 423/ 928-8992 Hungry I at the Apex 604 W. Market St. Johnson City

KARAOKE TUESDAY Karaoke w/ Absolute Entertainment at Boomershine’s Pizza Karaoke at 50Fifty Sports Tavern Karaoke at Numan’s - Johnson City TN *********************** WEDNESDAY Karaoke w/ Southern Sounds Karaoke at American Legion 8pm Karaoke w/ Absolute Entertainment at Smokey Bones - Johnson City TN Karaoke w/ Absolute Entertainment at Marker “2” Grille Turn the Page Karaoke at VFW Post 2108 - Johnson City TN *********************** THURSDAY Karaoke at Numan’s - Johnson City TN Karaoke at Holiday Inn - Johnson City TN Karaoke w/ Absolute Entertainment at Mellow Mushroom Karaoke w/ Absolute Entertainment at Poor Richard’s Campus ***********************

Jiggy Ray’s 610 E. Elk Ave Elizabethton Johnson City Senior’s Center 510 Bert St. Johnson City 423/ 434-6238 Marker “2’ Grill at Lakeview Marina 474 Lakeside Dock, Kingsport 423/323-4665 O’Mainnin’s Pub 712 State St Bristol 423/844-0049 Our House Restaurant 4903 N. Roan St. Johnson City 423/ 282-1555 Painter Creek Marina 766 Painter Creek Rd Bristol TN 423/878-5775 Paramount Center for the Arts 516 State St. Bristol TN 423/ 274-8920 Quaker Steak & Lube 629 State St Bristol VA 276/644-9647 Show Palace 14364 Lee Hwy Bristol VA 276/494-6610 Sleepy Owl Brewery 151 E. Main St. Kingsport 423/390-8476 Sonny’s Marina & Café 109 One St. Gray TN 423/283-4014 State Line Bar & Grill 644 State Street Bristol 423/652-0792 Wellington’s Restaurant Carnegie Hotel 1216 W State of Franklin Rd Johnson City 423/979-6400 The Willow Tree Coffeehouse & Music Room 216 E Main St Johnson City Yee Haw Brewing Company 126 Buffalo St. Johnson City

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

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TOOLS ARE IN YOUR HANDS FOR SUMMER STARGAZING

Photos by MarQ

h, the month of June. There’s a sense of freedom to June, whether a school kid turned loose or an adult just wanting to lose the tie or panty hose. And that brings a lot of us outside enjoying the warm evening, sights and sounds of the impending summer. Sooner or later in the evening you’ll notice a star or two popping out of the twilight. Maybe later in the night you’ll look up and see the Milky Way. It might register with you that looking at a star immediately zooms you off our planet into the cosmos. Because when you look at a star, you are looking back in time. The star is so far away that even at the ultimate speed of light (186,000 miles every second or about 6 trillion miles a year) it takes years for even the closest starlight to reach us. And when that starlight enters your eye, you are receiving a real physical signal from that star as light is photons of particles. Yes, we are really stardust. So, sometime this Summer you’ll undoubtedly look up and see a bright star and wonder: “What’s that star’s name? Or maybe it’s a planet? And if so, which one? Or if it’s a star, which constellation is it in? Yes, looking up makes you wonder. And poses a lot of questions. And for many of us the answers are right in our ubiquitous Smart Phones. Download a night sky application to your phone, tablet or laptop, and you’re in business for some star and constellation identification. Or you can go old school with sky charts in library books and maybe a planisphere wheel chart. An excellent, free star chart can be downloaded each month at Skymaps.com or Whatsouttonight.com. Each source has all the bright stars, planets and constellations, and a monthly recap of celestial highlights and Moon phases. And of course there are those special sky charts and star atlases are for the avid stargazers, and we enjoy many diverse sources to find the celestial objects we love. But Joe and Jane America are into instant gratification, and when looking up at a bright star, you want to know right now what it is. And that’s where your Smart Phone comes in. There are many apps to choose from, whether Android or Apple. But one of the best is called Stellarium, and it

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is available as a mobile app for about a $1, or free on your lap top or tablet (at Stellarium.org). You can also download apps for Moon phases, visibility of the International Space Station and other satellites, and even apps for the moons of Jupiter and surface features on Mars. What is cool is the live view of the sky you have with your Smart Phone. Just activate the app and point your phone to sky to match the constellation and stars you see. It’s an amazing world we live in! This Summer will be particularly fun to stargaze with two planets in the Milky Way constellation of Scorpius the Scorpion. Towards the end of June after 10 pm face

south and look up and there is the giant fishhook of Scorpius. A bright red star to the right is Mars, and a golden star to the left is Saturn. Below them is the heart of Scorpius, a red star Antares. Now you can show off some stargazing knowledge to your friends, whipping out your Smart Phone to verify the celestial scene. And then roam around figuring out more of the fabulous sky. It’s a great way to fool around in the night!

Celestial events in the skies for the week of May 31 - June 6, 2016, as compiled for The Loafer by Mark D. Marquette.

he Moon moves into the domain of the morning skies, leaving the evenings dark and inviting as these late Spring evening warm up. Planets Jupiter, Mars and Saturn are all visible, and quite a site to see in any size telescope. And after midnight, the Milky Way will be clearly visible stretching from the North to South. Tues. May 31 Look north and the Big Dipper asterism of Ursa Major, it is known as The Plow in Great Britain. The outer stars of the bowl point to the North Star, Polaris, and the handle arcs to the star Arcturus in the constellation Bootes the Herdsman. Wed., June 1 Keep following that curve of the Big Dipper’s handle through orangish Arcturus and to bright, white Spica. Thurs. June 2 The constellation Bootes (BOO-o-tez) looks either like an ice cream cone or a kite with Arcturus anchoring at the bottom. It’s an ancient constellation with unknown origins dating maybe as far back as 4,000 years ago. And a strange name for a man, as Bootes is a “herdsman,” possibly herding Ursa Major around the sky. I’ve wondered if maybe Bootes invented the wheel? Fri. June 3 On this 1965 date in space history, Gemini IV was launched with Gus Grissom in command and Ed White taking the first American spacewalk—an iconic image of the Space Age. Both tragically died in a flash fire inside their Apollo 1 spacecraft during launch pad tests in January 1967. In 1966, Gemini IX was launched with Tom Stafford, 86, and Gene Cernan, 85. Their mission was full of problems, including a-bad docking target rocket and an unsuccessful spacewalk by Cernan when his visor fogged up. Sat. June 4 New Moon today at precisely 11 pm when on the other side of the world from America the Moon will be invisible above the Sun. Look for the thin crescent low in the west after sunset on Monday. Sun. June 5 Two Space Shuttles were launched on 11 years apart on this date in space history. In 1991, STS-40 and

Columbia launched on a 9-day mission with seven astronauts. In the cargo bay was the Spacelab module for the fifth time, and all the experiments were devoted to biology. In 2002, Endeavour was launched on the STS-111 mission with four astronauts on a “hard-hat” mission to continue building the International Space Station. Mon. June 6 Happy 84th birthday to Apollo 15 moonwalker David Scott. He no doubt will look at the Moon this week and think of his lunar journey with James Irwin, deceased. In July 1971 they rode the first Lunar Rover next to the edge of an ancient lava river and Hadley Mountains.

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The Angry birds movie (2 1/2 Eggs Out of 4)

ou may want to sit down as you begin reading my article this week. The reason you need to be seated is due to the fact I have never played the Angry Birds game. Now that you have recovered from your shock, I will continue. I certainly remember hearing about the game in 2009, but it just seemed to be another silly game to me. As it turns out, the silly little game was purchased from the Apple App Store by 12 million people. Yes, I was not part of this important moment in pop history, but I have no regrets (haha). Due to the game being such a hit, is it any wonder Hollywood jumped on the Angry Birds bandwagon with a new computer-animated movie? I just wonder why it took so long. Well never fear Angry Birds fans, your dream has come true in the form of “The Angry Birds Movie”. To further convey my lack of knowledge of the game, as I was watching the film I kept wondering why the birds in the film (save for the eagle) didn’t fly. The reason would be these “flightless” birds live on Bird Island and simply scurry around their island. The story revolves around Red (Jason Sudeikis), a bird who is ready to explode in anger at a moments notice. Red turns angry so easily, he is sentenced to anger management class after publicly losing his temper. While Red continues his anger management classes, new visitors come to the island from Piggy Island, and yes they are pigs, green ones in fact. While all seems well between the birds and their new island mates, Red is suspicious of the green visitors motives and recruits friends Chuck (Josh Gad) and Bomb (Danny McBride) to head out in search of the Mighty Eagle(Peter Dinklage), who is the protector of Bird Island. Of course Red’s suspicions are confirmed when he and his friends discover the real reason the pigs are on their island. The trio’s visit to the Mighty Eagle proves less-than-successful, but is very humorous thanks to the antics of the Mighty Eagle. Everything comes to a head when the birds and pigs have a showdown on Piggy Island. I did find this effort to be enjoyable at times, but the film just didn’t have the spark of joy most animated films of this ilk convey. In fact in the theater where I viewed the film, there was little out loud laughter, which is never a good sign for any type of comedy. The film is a fine diversion for kids, and I’m sure those who played the game or still do so will get a kick out of seeing the Angry Birds on the big screen, but as I was with the game, I am not one of them. “The Angry Birds Movie” is rated PG.

1st Annual Young Filmmakers Competition slated for summer

he City of Bristol, Tennessee is holding its 1st Annual Young Filmmakers Competition for high school students. The objective of the competition is to engage young filmmakers in the region by providing them with a platform to showcase their creativity alongside the city’s array of public parks. Entrants must create a short film, 30-seconds to 2 minutes long, featuring at least 1 of the 30 city parks. “Summer in Bristol, Tennessee is so picturesque, especially in one of the many parks throughout the city. Bristol, Tennessee has city parks ranging from less than one acre up to one of the top five largest parks in the state, the 2,200 acre Steele Creek Park,” said Terry Napier, Director of Parks and Recreation.

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Cash prizes will be awarded to the top three films by the Tennessee Entertainment Commission. There will be a 1st place prize of $500, a 2nd place prize of $300, and a 3rd place prize of $200. Film entries will be reviewed by a panel of judges, with their combined score determining the top 3 winners. As an added distinction, the top three films will be honored at the local PUSH Film Festival scheduled for the fall. All high school students, grades 9-12, are encouraged to participate. “We are excited about offering this new summer project to high school students in our community,” said Terrie Talbert, Director of Community Relations for the City. “Members of our staff were introduced to a similar festival in another southeastern city and thought this project would be a great opportunity to showcase the beauty of our parks as well as highlight the talent of our youth.” For more information and official rules on the Young Filmmakers Competition, go to http:// bristoltn.org/1043/Filmmakers-Competition, contact Brittany Fleenor in Community Relations at 423- 989-5500 Ext. 2028 or email bfleenor@bristoltn.org.

The Autoette Society

alifornia has a (well-deserved) reputation for being an automobile-oriented place. Since most of the urban settlement there took place well after the introduction of the horseless carriage, cities and towns tended to develop in such a way that caters to those without transportation concerns. Negotiating freeways and urban sprawl is a time-honored way of life, so if you don’t own a car, you’re pretty much screwed. As I myself am, shall we say vehicularly-impaired, I find the situation frustrating to say the least. So imagine my surprise when I discovered the town of Avalon, where not only is car ownership discouraged, it’s dang near impossible. Technically a part of Los Angeles County (the belly of the beast as far as car culture goes), Avalon is really a world away. It’s the central town on Santa Catalina Island, which is twenty-some miles off the coast of smoggy LA and one of the few inhabited places within the Channel Islands archipelago. Home to around 4,000 permanent residents, Avalon is an escape for tourists, receiving more than 1 million visitors each year. As you might expect, things can get a little crowded. To combat this, the municipal authorities in Avalon have enacted some rather draconian laws governing the ownership and use of automobiles in the town – and effectively across the entire island. First of all, all vehicles must be registered and have their own valid permits – and the waiting list for one of said permits is currently estimated at 14 years. And all of this pertains to residents. If you are a visitor and wish to bring your car on vacation – forget it. It’s not happening. Enjoy your walk. There are also ordinances regulating vehicle size that essentially limit legal status to autoettes – or as you and I know them – golf carts. The streets of Avalon are indeed very narrow, which is the common explanation given for the size restriction, but there is also a well-developed cart-rental industry on the island specifically targeted at tourists. So while you can’t bring your own wheels, you can certainly rent one of those carts – for around $50/hr. Apparently, the autoette lobby is strong in Avalon. Nevertheless, the effect of it all gives the impression of a town in miniature, with little shops, little streets, and little cars. Kind of fun, if you ask me. This, plus the fact that it’s just a ferry ride away, makes Avalon, and the island as a

whole, an attractive destination for daytripping Angelinos and area visitors alike. Golf clubs are optional.

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The Larry Shively Interview

rowing up, there was this kid who had the best yard ever made for sports. Did you have one in your neighborhood too? The yard was flat with plenty of room and only the occasional crawdad hole to stop the long touchdown pass or cause an error in the outfield. Yep, Larry Shively and his family played host to some of the most epic backyard sports events in my memory as a kid. And in the most awesome twist of fate ever, the guy from my old neighborhood was just named Athletic Director for Kingsport City Schools! To me, there is no shock at all that this man has been selected and I know he is the absolute right choice. If you haven’t had the chance to read about Larry and get to know him, here he is. BRIAN: Larry, you and I grew up together in what seems like a much simpler time looking back. What are some of your favorite memories about growing up in Kingsport and how did it shape you? LARRY: I absolutely loved growing up in Kingsport! Those formative years were so special to me as I reflect back. Our city was, and still is, family oriented. I have so many fond memories of playing sports at the Boys Club, the old Eastman ball fields, and the City Rec leagues. I made lifelong friends in these activities. Even our informal “backyard” football and wiffle-ball games shaped who I am today. BRIAN: Once we were out of High School, you and I have not had a lot of contact. You have been very involved with your true passions of athletics and education. Tell folks about your career journey over the years. LARRY: I graduated from Dobyns-Bennett in 1992. I then graduated with a B.A. Degree in History from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville in 1997. I then completed my Master’s of Secondary Education in 1998 from Milligan College. While enrolled as a Master’s student, I completed a yearlong teaching internship at Science Hill High School. After teaching and coaching at Shelbyville Central High School for one year, 1998-99, I came back to Science Hill and taught and coached there until May 2010. I served as the Head Football Coach at Happy Valley High School from May 2010 through May 2015. I then “came back home” to D-B as a US History teacher. I had agreed to serve as an Assistant Football Coach for Coach Clark when the Athletic Director position came open. I am honored that I was selected to lead the athletes and coaches in the Kingsport City School system. BRIAN: I know you and how happy it makes you to be back in your home town and to now be at the helm of the athletics program. What types of initiatives are you looking at for kids starting in middle school and moving through high school to further them athletically and build character? LARRY: We intend to have a vertical alignment from our youth leagues, to our two middle schools, to Dobyns-Bennett High School. We think that having “all of our arrows” pointed in the same direction will help our vision of providing a world-class athletic experience that is second to none. We plan to relentlessly advocate for and promote our student-athletes and coaches and push them to achieve new heights. We plan to have a coordinated strength and conditioning program in place that is age appropriate for our athletes. Our, ultimate goal is to provide the opportunities for success and to encourage the development of the whole person. It will take parents, students, faculty, coaches, alumni, and the entire community to work together for our athletes in Kingsport to have a world class program. BRIAN: You have kids and are undoubtedly encouraging them to pursue sports. Does the insight of being a dad with young kids give you some added motivation at work?

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LARRY: I have two children, Sara (12) and Trey (8). However, I feel like I have 7,100 children now (the number of students in KCS). The coaches are charged with coaching as if their own child was in their program. We want to coach them hard while being relentlessly positive. We know that the wins are the byproduct of our culture here in the Kingsport City School system and our community. We have a wonderful tradition and legacy to uphold. It is an awesome responsibility, but one that we will attack with passion and pride. BRIAN: Finally, just let me say once again how great it has been to talk with you. Let’s end this with you telling us some of the things you are most excited about coming up and how folks can stay informed about athletics in Kingsport. Go. LARRY: It is my intention to launch our brand new unified Kingsport City Schools Twitter feed and Facebook page in early June. We will have team schedules, rosters, upcoming promotions, interviews of former Indians, etc. We also have other exciting things in the works…..just stay tuned. It is an exciting time to be an Indian. As always, Roll Tribe Roll!

Johnson City Community Theatre Presents

t’s the tail end of the big, bad 1980s in Hollywood, and the party has been raging hard. Aqua Net, Lycra, lace and liquor flow freely at one of the Sunset Strips last legendary venues, a place where sex machine Stacee Jaxx takes the stage and scantily clad groupies line up to turn their fantasies into reality. Amidst the madness, aspiring rock star (and resident toilet cleaner) Drew longs to take the stage as the next big thing (and longs for small-town girl Sherri, fresh off the bus from Kansas with stars in her eyes). But the rock and roll fairy-tale is about to end when German developers sweep into town with plans to turn the fabled Strip into just another capitalist strip mall. Can Drew, Sherri and the gang save the strip–and themselves–before it’s too late? Only the music of hit bands Styx, Journey, Bon Jovi, Whitesnake and more hold the answer.

Rock of Ages

Written by Chris D’Arienzo • Directed by Scott Elliott

PERFORMANCES:

Friday, June 3 7:30pm Saturday, June 4 7:30pm Friday, June 10 7:30pm Saturday, June 11 7:30pm Sunday, June 12 2:00pm Friday, June 17 7:30pm Saturday, June 18 2:00pm Saturday, June 18 7:30pm *Doors Open 45 Minutes Before Show Time* Starring (in order of Cast Photo) Top Row • Jake Jones, Britny Fox, Kerry Morton, Josie Russel, Matthew Anderson Middle Row • Matthew Kilby, Josh Cassels, Daniel Harr, Jonathan Marin, Kaitlynn Newcomb, Lacey Williams, Emily Watson, Luke Cochra Bottom Row • Dustin Lawson, Hailey Mullins, Molly Doss, Michael Shearin, Peggy Russell, Andrea Morton

Tickets: $18 Reserved Seating $15 Seniors, Students, Military and Groups (15+)

theloaferonline.com | May 31, 2016 | 27

Mount Mitchell State Park

Photo and article by

ast Tennessee and our neighboring states are surely blessed to possess some of the wildest and most beautiful landscapes in the Southeast, if not the entire country. Much of this land is protected in the form of national parks such as the Blue Ridge National Scenic Parkway and Cumberland Gap National Historical Park as well as national forests such Pisgah, Nantahala, Jefferson, and our own Cherokee National Forest. While these areas are indeed some of our most treasured gems, the dozens of state parks that dot our region offer their own unique environments and experiences that can rival anything in the Smokies. Often overlooked, state parks also can offer much more seclusion as they avoid the crowding which dampens many a visit to the national parks. For the next few months, we would like to take the opportunity to introduce you to some of the best of the state parks across the Southern Appalachian region. Some may protect just a few acres, while others span many square miles. They stretch through forests and open prairies, plunge into canyons and soar across the lofty ridges of the Appalachians. Our first adventure takes us to those craggy peaks known as the Black Mountains, home to Mount Mitchell State Park and the two highest points in eastern North America. The approach to the park is indeed one of the most stunning drives in the country. Accessible only via the Blue Ridge Parkway, the drive from either direction allows views of the Blue Ridge and Great Craggy Mountains marching off into the distance. Far below, the city of Asheville’s reservoir sparkles like a diamond in the forest. When you first see the mountains you’ll understand how they got their name; the high elevation spruce-fir forest contrasts with the surrounding lush deciduous vegetation, making the range much darker then the surrounding forest. At milepost 355 you will reach North Carolina State Highway 128, under the shadow of uniquely named Potato Knob. Follow this road about a mile and you’ll soon reach the park boundary. Unlike several other state parks in North Carolina, Mount Mitchell State Park does not require an entrance or usage fee to enjoy all the wonders the park has to offer. Do be aware of the time, however, as the park hours do fluctuate throughout the year. While this park is rather small at 1,946 acres, there are enough activities and trails to keep one entertained for several days. A first stop should always be made at the visitor center, where maps, trail guides, and helpful advice from park staff are available to help make the most of your visit. Here you will also find the park’s museum, featuring exhibits of the geology, ecology, and history of the ancient mountains where you stand. Here you can read the fascinating story of Elisha Mitchell, a professor of the University of North Carolina who was the first European to explore this area and establish the mountain’s rightful claim as highest in the east. From the visitor center, it is only a short but steep walk up a paved trail to the summit, which features a new observation platform. Here at 6,684 feet, the surrounding valleys and distant ridges all seem fairly small. On a clear day, the peaks of the Roan Highlands and Grandfather Mountain are easily discernable to the northeast, while the Great Balsams and Craggies dominate the southern view. It also is hard to miss the memorial to Professor Mitchell here at the summit. In fact, his tomb is here as well, for he died on this mountain in 1857 while on an expedition to prove that this was in fact the highest summit in the east. His legacy and love for these mountains were remembered by many, and therefore this area was protected as North Carolina’s first state park in the year 1915. Due to the park’s early establishment, almost the entirety of the forest is still old-growth, un-

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The 0.25 mile Summit Trail, with Mount Craig in the distance. touched by the logging boom which took off in the early 20th century. After visiting the summit, you may want to take a hike down one of the park’s spectacular trails. Balsam Nature Trail is only three quarters of a mile long and allows an up-close look at the unique ecosystems of the spruce-fir forest. A fantastic hike can be made by looping around the Old Mitchell, Commissary, and Camp Alice trails. This will total up just over 4 miles. Another popular option is the Black Mountain Crest Trail, which passes over the park’s second highest peak, 6,647-foot Mount Craig. Whatever trail you hike, remember to dress warm and bring rain gear, as the mountains create their own weather in the higher elevations. We found out the hard way on our last trip. A sunshiny 80-degree day in nearby Asheville quickly changed to clouds and fog, with the temperature at the visitor center dipping to 45 degrees without even counting the wind chill. If the weather does turn out to be less than ideal, the park features an indoor classroom just up the summit trail which features talks and workshops on a variety of subjects throughout the year. Also, the park is home to a restaurant open daily which features hearty southern-style meals such as biscuits and gravy and country fried steak. Space for events such as weddings and parties is also available to rent here. The restaurant is open from 10:00 a.m. to one hour before park closing. Directions: from Asheville, N.C., take exit 8 on I-240 onto US-74 ALT E and then take the right ramp onto the Blue Ridge Parkway. Turn right onto the Blue Ridge Parkway and follow it for 29 miles. Make a sharp left onto NC-128. The park boundary is in one mile. From Boone, N.C., take the Blue Ridge Parkway south 64 miles and make a right turn onto NC-128. The park is open 7:00 A.M.-10:00 P.M. throughout the summer months of May to August.

Jonesborough Welcomes

Storyteller Anne Rutherford

he International Storytelling Center will soon welcome renowned performer Anne Rutherford as its next performer in its Storytelling Live! lineup. Rutherford, who’s known for her award-winning tall tales and for her knowledge of Pacific Northwestern folklore—she’s a big fan of Bigfoot—will share a new set of eclectic stories each day during her residency. From June 7 – June 11, Tuesday through Saturday, the storyteller will offer daily matinees. All performances begin at 2:00 p.m., and will take place in the International Storytelling Center’s intimate Mary B. Martin Storytelling Hall, which is located downtown. All performances will feature Rutherford on the mandolin.

The performer comes from a family full of storytellers and a tiny town full of fascinating characters. “My grandpa was Irish, and when my mom’s side of the family got together, no tale was too tall to be told,” she says. “Even if it was a trip to the grocery store, somehow it became a huge adventure by the time one of my uncles or aunts would tell it.” With her tall tales, Rutherford likes to start small and gradually go big. “I’m a very sincere person, so that stands me in good stead,” she says. “My stories start off very unassuming and then gradually lift off until you realize you’re really somewhere else.” In addition to her daily matinees, Rutherford will offer a workshop, “Storytelling and Memory Loss: A Workshop for Caregivers,” on Thursday, June 9, at 9:30 a.m. The workshop is for anyone— including family members, health care professionals, and volunteers—who works with elderly populations in their personal or professional lives. “It’s geared towards laypeople, not performers,” she says. “We’ll work on learning a certain way of telling a story where we really focus in on vivid sensory imagery. I’m always amazed at how quickly and easily people start going back and forth telling stories.” The fee for the two-hour workshop is just $30 per person. Advance enrollment is encouraged. Storytelling Live! tickets for all regular matinee performances are just $12 for adults and $11 for seniors, students, and children under 18. Walk-in seating is available, but advance purchase is recommended. All ticketholders can present their ticket stubs for a 10 percent discount on sameday dining at JJ’s Eatery and Ice Cream or Main Street Café, two popular eateries in Jonesborough. Rutherford’s weeklong residency is part of an ongoing series, with a new “teller in residence” taking the stage each week through the month of October. Information about all performers, as well as a detailed schedule for 2016, is available at www. storytellingcenter.net. The premier sponsor of Storytelling Live! is the Mountain States’ Heart & Soul program. Additional funding comes from the National Endowment for the Arts, the Tennessee Arts Commission, the East Tennessee Foundation, Eastman Credit Union, the Mooneyhan Family Foundation and the Niswonger Foundation. The International Storytelling Center is open 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., Monday through Saturday. For more information about Storytelling Live! or to make a group reservation, call (800) 952-8392 ext. 222 or (423) 913-1276.

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Answers found on page 32

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Full-Size Rundown Part 1: Glock 17

ver the next few weeks we’ll be looking at four different full-size semi-automatic handguns. For the sake of intrigue I’ll leave the others to mystery, but this week we’ll be looking at the world famous Glock 17. Don’t worry all the handguns won’t be 9mm’s. So you might not know this, but according to the GlockUSA website the Glock 17 is the most widely used law enforcement pistol worldwide. Like me you might have also heard that the Navy Seals have adopted the Glock 19 (the 17’s little brother) as their new service sidearm. So why would so many law enforcement agencies, and an elite military group choose to trust the lives of their people to Glock? The reason is really simple, reliability. The Glock 17 outperforms every other pistol that dares compete with it. Glocks are proven to perform in sand, mud, and can even fire underwater. They’re like the AK-47 of the pistol world. Of course nothing in this world doesn’t have a few cons. The Glock 17 is no different. While reliable, and rugged the 17 is like all Glocks is ugly as sin. Square, and bulky. That being said I don’t know about you, but I’d much rather have a gun that I know will go bang when I need it to than a rosewood gripped beauty that’s about as useful as the rear bumper on a Ford Pinto. Because of their shape the Glock is also very difficult to conceal carry. But outer waistband carry is a quick fix. Another issue with Glocks which really isn’t an issue if you train yourself is the lack of external safety. Glocks are equipped with a revolution-

ary trigger safety that many other companies have since cloned, that essentially can only be activated with the human finger. Now the issue that arises is one of poor drawing. If you recall from the presentation articles the trigger finger should remain outside the trigger guard, preferably at a 45 degree angle until the firearm is clear from the holster at which point it is placed below the slide on the frame until the firearm is at stage 2 at which point the finger can be placed inside the trigger guard. Sadly many people in the rush of the moment forget this and draw with their finger inside the trigger guard and with no external safety accidently shoot themselves in the leg. No this is not a design flaw in my opinion, but a simple lack of training and practice. Another reason the Glock 17 is so popular among military and law enforcement professionals is that they are incredibly accurate. This is due in no small part to the full size 4.48 inch barrel. They are also incredibly easy to field-strip and clean. With a loaded weight of only 32.22oz the 17 is not unbearable to carry all day, this is due to its polymer frame. As you might know if you’ve ever purchased a Glock or shopped for one they are not inexpensive. A Gen III Glock 17 will cost you almost $500.00, and a Gen IV can cost up to $600.00. The thing to keep in mind is that with the level of quality that comes with a Glock there’s no reason it shouldn’t last you a lifetime and might even last your kids a lifetime too. As always I hope you enjoyed this article if you have any questions or concerns please feel free to email me, I look forward to your feedback. Sources: https://us.glock.com/products/model/g17

theloaferonline.com | May 31, 2016 | 31

things to do

William King Museum of Art Hosts Its Annual Masquerade Art Ball

cians. He enjoys working with all types of wood and gemstones to find the best way to share their beauty and power. Each piece is unique, and handmade On Saturday, June 11, William King by the artist. Enjoy finding the one that Museum of Art will host its annual Art calls to you! Ball, a night of food and drinks, music and dancing, and a silent art auction to raise funds to support the VanGogh Art in the Heart Gallery Outreach (VGO) program. VGO pro- Pet Portrait Class with vides arts education to 2nd and 3rd Michelle Howe graders in 13 southwest Virginia and Friday June 24, 2016 In this class you eastern Kentucky school districts, enwill wood burn a picture of your favorsuring that children in rural Appalachia ite pet and finish it with colored penget to experience artistic expression and cils. Bring colored pencils and a picture creativity. This year’s edition is in honof the pet you want to work on. All or of the late Mr. G. R. C. Stewart, and other supplies will be furnished. Email Mrs. Mary Stewart and family. Tickets a picture of your pet to Michelle Howe are $75 and can be purchased by con(heart8151@aol.com) one week in adtacting Deb Kerr at 276.628.5005 ext. vance. She will create a line drawing to 111 or at dkerr@wkmuseum.org. For make it easy for you to get a likeness of more information contact the Museum your pet. 11am - 5pm at 276.628.5005, or visit williamkingmu246 Broad Street (at corner of Center seum.org. Street) Kingsport, TN 37660 423-480-9702 PAC to offer Pallet

Art Project

Princeton Arts Center, 2516 E. Oakland Ave., invites artisans ages 15 and older to participate in a Pallet Art Project. Entry fee is $10 per pallet. Participants will have two weeks to complete their project, which will be on display at PAC through July. Schedule is as follows: • June 6-10: Wooden pallets may be picked between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. • June 27-July 1: Pallets must be returned to Princeton Arts Center. • July 8: Artisan reception and unveiling of Pallet Art Projects from 6-8 p.m. • Aug. 1: Pallets may be picked up from PAC. For more information, please call (423)283-5800.

Mindful Recovery Group Open To the Public

Anyone recovering from any type of addiction, including alcoholism and drug addiction, is invited to attend the Mindful Recovery Group. The group can serve as an alternative or addition to traditional 12-step recovery meetings and does not require any particular belief or spiritual practice. Mindful Recovery meets every Thursday from 7:00 – 8:00 p.m. at the Appalachian Dharma & Meditation Center (ADMC), 108 W. 10th Ave., Suite 3, Johnson City, TN. The meeting is free and confidential. For more information, contact mindfulrecovery4et@ gmail.com. ADMC offers opportunities to explore Buddhism, meditation of various First Thursday Sip and Stroll forms, mindfulness and much more. June 2,5-8pm at ARTIQUES, For more information about ADMC, 338 Commerce St. Kingsport visit the website www.dharma4et.org Reid Blackwelder is the resident art- or contact dharma4et@gmail.com. ist for RavenWoods Pens and Jewelry. He is also a family physician calling Mountain Makins Festival Kingsport home since 1992. He is a Invitation to Musicians vice-chair in the Department of FamRose Center is preparing for the 41st ily Medicine at the Quillen College of Annual Mountain Makins Festival on Medicine, and is a Past President of the October 22 and 23, 2016 in Morristown, American Academy of Family Physi- TN. Once again, there will be continu-

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ous musical entertainment during both days of the Festival, and a Preview show on Friday night, Oct. 21. The festival features bluegrass and old time music, but also “new grass,” rockabilly, and other types of roots music. Musicians interested in performing at this year’s Mountain Makins Festival will need to contact Rose Center by May 30, 2016. Bands should send audio samples of their music, information about their group, photos, and contact information. Mountain Makins Festival, a celebration of Appalachian culture, is the largest event in Hamblen County, drawing 7000 visitors from throughout the region. This year it was named the Best Festival in the Southeast by the Southeast Festivals and Events Association. It has been designated a “Top 20 Event in the Southeast” four times by the Southeast Tourism Society; and was also voted “Best Festival in East Tennessee” by readers of Tennessee Magazine. The festival is a fundraiser for historic Rose Center, an 1892 school building, now a museum and cultural center. Musicians may contact Rose Center at: PO Box 1976, Morristown, TN 37816; beccy@rosecenter.org; or 423-581-4330.

Summer’s coming and so are Steele Creek nature camps

PAre your kids counting down the days until the end of the school year

and getting excited about summer? Are you beginning to stress over what to do to keep them occupied during summer break? The City of Bristol’s Department of Parks and Recreation may have just the plan for you. Several Summer Nature Camps are being held from June 6 to July 22 at the Steele Creek Nature Center. Some of the camps being offered are Feathered Flyers Camp, Ecological Awareness and Discovery Camp, Young Scientists Camp, Geology Rocks Camp, Nature Photography, and an Aquatic Ecology Camp. The Registration fee is $60.00 per camp, which includes a t-shirt and all materials needed. For more information, and to register, visit http:// bristoltn.org/959/Summer-NatureCamps, or contact Jeremy Stout at the Nature Center at 423-989-5616.

Rooted in Appalachia Roadshow

In northeast Tennessee & southwest Virginia folks are interested in their neighbors, their towns and the farmers growing their food. You could say, folks are ‘rooted’ in local traditions. This summer, you can get rooted too! Just visit your local farmers market and have fun at the free, Rooted in Appalachia roadshows! There will be games, cooking demos, prizes and more. Visit www.rootedinappalachia.com for more info.

DROP QUOTE: “It is a curious situation that the sea, from which life first arose, should now be threatened by the activities of one form of that life.” CRYPTOGRAM: For them that think death’s honesty won’t fall upon them naturally life sometimes must get lonely.

pets of the week

Romeo is a 4 year old Puggle mix. He is neutered and up to date on all vaccines. He is sweet and playful and good with other dogs.

Short Stop is a 3 year old male Bassett mix. He is neutered and up to date on all vaccines. A very sweet and loving boy and good with other dogs! The Bridge Home has an ongoing aluminum can can collection in front of the shelter at 2061 Hwy 75 in Blountville,TN 37617. The cans are collected by a volunteer and the money from the aluminum goes towards badly needed food and supplies for the animals The Bridge Home No Kill Animal Rescue has started a pet food pantry for people that have had financial hardships because of job loss or medical problems and are struggling to feed their pet. They can come by the shelter and get cat or dog food to get through the tough time. Donations can be sent to The Bridge Home Shelter PO Box 654 Blountville, TN 37617 Every animal in their care is spayed or neutered and fully vaccinated before being adopted. Being a non profit the shelter is funded entirely by membership dues and private donations. They always need volunteers or monetary donations. Other always needed items:pet food, cat litter & cat toys dog treats & dog toys,paper towels, cleaners, office supplies,Purina weight circles. Phone: 423.239.5237 Hours are Mon-Fri 12pm-6pm Sat 12pm3pm and Sun 2pm-4pm. Website is www.bridgehomerescue@gmail. com or like them on Facebook: www.Facebook.com/bridgehome theloaferonline.com | May 31, 2016 | 33

PLACING A CLASSIFED LINE AD:

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

01 General Items 49 Electronics

Nikon D3200 Camera, Lens, Various Accessories

Phone: 423-408-0424 Price: $ 600.00 Nikon D3200 camera body, Nikkor 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6, Nikkor 50mm f/1.8D, speed light flash, fisheye/ macro lens attachment, ND filters, a strap, sync cable, camera battery charger and grip , camera sync cable, 16 GB SD card, lg and sm camera bags, lg and sm tripods and camera/flash mounts. Very good condition, well cared for. If interested in an individual item, will consider. For more information, call or text Elijah.

73 Real Estate 72 For Sale

***Condo for sale ***

Price: $ 94,900.00 Woodstone Condos - 2 bedroom / 1.5 bath. Listing by Wayne and Debi Bartley, Remax Checkmate Johnson City. For more information contact them at 423-282-0432 (office) or 423-676-6180 (cell) Wayne & Debi Bartley, RealtorsRe/max Checkmate, Inc. KINGSPORT LOT for sale by owner 423-247-7959 • $8,500.00

85 Jobs

103 Sales/Marketing

Account Representative Phone: 423-283-4324. The Loafer is seeking motivated account representatives to service various territories throughout Tri-Cities. Must be enthusiastic, hardworking, positive, successful. Part time Full time. Flexible hours. Must have reliable transportation, smart phone & self-motivated. Join The Loafer team today! Email resumes to info@theloafeornline.com

107 Services

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107 Services A Style 4 U We are a full service salon owned and operated by by Sandi Smith, with hair stylist Renee Gibson on board, that offers professional cuts, styles, colors, and perms at affordable prices. The best prices in the Tri-Cities area. Men’s haircuts are $10. Women’s are $12. We have over 32 year’s experience in the business and we want to help you get your style on! We are located at 943 Volunteer Parkway in Bristol, Tennessee, near Auto Zone. Call us at 423534-9825. Walk ins welcome!

121 General Services

Affordable Professional Wedding & Event Photography N&N Photography is a husband and wife photography team dedicated to capturing the most important and precious moments in your life! We provide High Quality Photography at an Affordable Price. We photograph Events, Engagements, Weddings, Prom, Senior, Sports, Newborn, Graduation, Family, Sweetheart, Individual Portrait Shoots (male or female), & more. See our website at: www.nandnphotoshoot.com and our Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/nandnphotoshoot for more information. 423-9560820

121 General Services

NOTHING MAKES A PROPERTY LOOK BETTER THAN A NICE SLATE-BLACK PARKING LOT OR DRIVEWAY!! Asphalt

Sealing • Crack Repai • Line Striping! Book your appointment today for a free quote! 423-383-3553

128 Lawn & Garden

107 Services

143 Announcements

also offer general landscaping such as mulching, small tree/bush removal, sprucing up flowerbeds, general yard cleanup. For a free estimate contact us at 423-268-7319 or majesticlawnserivces@yahoo. com Visit our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/majesticmowing.

129 Legal

SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY BENEFITS. Unable to work? Denied benefits? We Can Help! WIN or Pay Nothing! Contact Bill Gordon & Associates at 1-800-864-9032 to start your application today!

133 Painting

NOTHING INCREASES HOMES VALUE LIKE INTERIOR PAINT. Let’s paint the interior of your house and make your house a home. Beautiful colors, including white, and multi-color or geometric design accent walls add that special flair. Anywhere from one bedroom to the whole house. Call David at 315.725.0562 to set up appointment for free estimate.

chained to the deadly habit of smoking? Are you motivated to stop smoking without using chemicals or chewing gum or wearing patches? I can help motivate you to stop this expensive, negative, unhealthy habit. Call us today at A New Path Hypnosis, 423-341-8898 or visit www.anewpathhypnosis.com to get started living a healthier life today. Free information session for all new clients.

148 Health & Fitness

LOSE WEIGHT! NOW ASK ME HOW! 3-Day Trial Pack, Only $20.00! With Free Shipping. Plus Your Own Personal Weight Loss Coach. Lets Get Started On A New You Today! 133 Painting Call or Text Lisa 315-761-2324 INTERIOR PAINTING. or Email TrialPack20@Yahoo. NOTHING INCREASES A com HOMES RESALE APPEAL, 143 Announcements OR MAKES IT FEEL LIKE “HOME” - MORE THAN NEW 144 Announcements INTERIOR PAINTING From A Travel, photography blog Single Bedroom To The Entire Home, Beautiful Warm Colors, Multi-Color or Geometric “Accent Walls”, Call David at Creative Interiors Painting to book your appointment today for free quote, 315-725-0562

145 Mind, Body & Spirit

149 Natural Alternatives Mowing starting at $25! Stop Smoking Naturally Contact Majestic Lawn Care Small yards start at $25. We with Hypnosis. Tired of being

Learn about interesting places near and far while getting tips to improve your photography at:www.thetravelingbabe.com.

138 Transportation 141 Motorcycle/Scooters 2004 Honda XR50 Phone: 423-383-3553 Price: $ 600.00 Great running bike

143 Announcements 144 Announcements

QUILT DEDICATION AND SALE June 5th, Sunday, St. John Lutheran Church. 807 E Main St, Abingdon VA. 11:00Worship/ Quilt dedication 12:30- Lunch/ tied quilt auction and sale Quilts will be displayed all around the church as we recognize St John Quilters for their service. Please join us as we celebrate this ministry of making “comfort quilts” for those in need. 276-644-1228

How Contextually Aware Is Your API?

ummer’s here and the time is right for your smart device to be more contextually aware. And just think of what will happen if your application program interface (API) doesn’t know which fence you belong in. Although what I have just written probably doesn’t make a great deal of sense to you at the moment, you are being fenced in as you read this and will soon be entering a world where fences will be your new reality. Read on if you dare. As one of my most recent learning projects, I have been exploring the wonderful world of application program interfaces, and specifically something called Google Awareness API (which will no doubt become a model for all other platforms as well). According to Webopedia, “Application program interface (API) is a set of routines, protocols, and tools for building software applications. An API specifies how system components should interact and APIs are used when programming graphical user interface (GUI) components.” As far as I can tell, this means that API works to coordinate the activities of the various components of your smart device to ensure that you are being monitored in the most intrusive kind of way on a 24/7 basis. For my “homework,” I watched a very provocative and informative video from a recent Google/Android developer conference. Hosted by developers Bhavik Singh and Maurice Chu, this thirty-minute video introduced me to the new mindset of smart devices that is being formulated by the gurus at Android and no doubt by the folk at Apple as well. Actually, most of the components of this brave new world are already in place and have been in use for some time now. But apparently what is taking shape now is a new language for making sure a lot disparate elements are interacting in ways never before possible. And doing so in ways that maximizes your battery life. According to Singh, we are rapidly transitioning from the world of desktops to the world of mobile devices which should not be thought of as “tiny computers,” but as little boxes jam packed with sensors and algorithms that allow us to constantly interact with them (while being monitored, of course). In other words, we are moving (and have already moved) from a world where our information sources are at fixed locations to one where our information sources are our constant companions. In this new world, cursors and mice don’t make much sense, and we are no longer bound by flash drives and other mobile storage devices. And, most important, our devices are now “contextually aware” and “assistive”—terms that don’t make sense in the ancient world of desktops and even laptops. Singh asks us to imagine what an “aware and more assistive” world looks like. He answers by asking us to look at our most familiar activities. For instance, imagine waking up in the morning to an alarm that has been created

by our smart device to fit our previous night’s sleeping pattern. This will be followed by messages that tell us what to wear based on the weather report and directions for when to leave the house to avoid traffic problems. If you are fond of running, imagine your smart device automatically launching a fitness app when you put on your running shoes, and creating just the right playlist when you plug in your headphones. And, when you are ready to take a picture of a cute little puppy you see on your route, your camera will call up similar pictures that lets you compare the puppy you see with other puppies. When you get into your car on your way to work and engage Drive, you will be inundated with mapping information, reminders to stop at the store to pick up items your smart refrigerator or smart pantry indicates needs replenishing, and countless ads telling you about sale items being offered at business you are passing or visiting. All this is where the concept of “fencing” comes in—not a new concept, by the way, but one that is being reimagined by Google and others. Here is how this works. Your smart device sets up “fences” around you all the time—fences that tell your sensors where you happen to be (Geofencing), what you are doing, and what is around you. Needless to say, this information is not entirely being provided for your benefit—what Singh calls “moments of delight”—but is also being used to send data to others so they will know which fence you happen to be trapped in the moment. Singh goes on to point out that the goal of Google’s new Awareness API is to bridge the gap between physical and digital worlds to ensure that the user (and the recipient) are in a fence that will provide those optimum “moments of delight.” At the moment, Awareness API is designed to create a “unified sensing platform” that incorporates and coordinates seven “context types”: location (latitude and longitude), place (in which Starbucks are you standing right now?), beacons (what other devices are you near?), time, activity (are you walking, running, biking, or driving?), headphones (are they plugged in?), and weather. When all these factors are seamlessly coordinated, in ways that maximize battery life and RAM usage (what Chu calls “system health”), the user of a smart device will be surrounded by a contextual and assistive fence designed to provide a truly uncanny amount of information that changes our definition of “reality.” And we can only imagine what will happen when all this is plugged into new virtual and additive reality devices like Oculus that are poised to soon become an integral part of our every day lives. As Dorothy Gale might say, “Toto, I’ve a feeling we’re not in Kansas anymore.” Now that your head is spinning, I will bring this week’s column to a close and go to work on a more contextually aware edition of “Kelly’s Place” that will let me know where you are reading my column, what you’re listening to while reading, and what the weather is like while you’re reading. I can only hope you are not reading while driving. And, before I go, I suggest you read a fascinating new book by Greg Milner, PINPOINT: HOW GPS IS CHANGING TECHNOLOGY, CULTURE, AND OUR MINDS (Norton, 2016), that places my topic into a truly contextually aware perspective. See you next week with something a little less head spinning. theloaferonline.com | May 31, 2016 | 35

36 | May 31, 2016 | theloaferonline.com