Page 2 | The Loafer | November 10, 2015
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November 10, 2015 | The Loafer | Page 3
Volume 29 • Issue #49
Speedway In Lights
Publisher Luci Tate
Editor Graphic Arts Director Don Sprinkle Office Manager Luci Tate Cover Design Bill May Advertising Dave Carter Terry Patterson Lori Howell Beth Jinks-Ashburn
happenings 4
Speedway In Lights
5
Claire Lynch Band takes the stage
6
Gate City to Honor Veterans
7
Jazz: America’s Music
8
Unique Holiday Extravaganza
9
Fundraiser Auction at Sycamore Shoals
Distribution Jerry Hanger Teresa Hanger
10
An Evening with The Barefoot Movement
11
Stephen Lang in BEYOND GLORY
Published by Pulse Publishing, LLC., P.O. Box 3238, Johnson City, TN 37602 Phone: 423/283-4324 FAX - 423/283-4369
13
“Raisin’ Cane” with Jasmine Guy
23
East Tennesssee Gem & Mineral Show
25
Rhythms Of the Mountain Empire
Contributing Staff Jim Kelly Andy Ross Ken Silvers Mark Marquette Brian McManus Joshua Hicks Brian Bishop Nathan Cox
www.theloaferonline.com info@theloaferonline.com e-mail: editorial@theloaferonline.com (editorial) adcopy@theloaferonline.com (advertising) All advertisements are accepted and published by the publisher upon the representation that the agency and/or advertiser is authorized to publish the entire contents and subject matter thereof. The agency and/or advertiser will indemnify and save the publisher harmless from any loss of expense resulting from claims or suits based upon contents of any advertisement, including claims or suits for defamation, libel, right of privacy, plagiarism, and copyright infringement.
Founder: Bill Williams
music & fun 14
Spotlight - Great Music & Fun Times
24
Crossword & Sudoku
12
Batteries Not Included - Gosh, I’m Thankful
16
Stargazer - “The Station” Occcupied 15 Years
17
Skies This Week
18
Screen Scenes - Holiday Preview
columns & reviews
20 The Trivial Traveler - A Quick Stop at the Quick Stop 21
Pets Of The Week
22
Mountain Movers - The Dave Christian Interview
26
Kelly’s Place - What Would You Put Back In The Box?
Page 4 | The Loafer | November 10, 2015
Speedway in Lights Sparkles to Life
On Friday, Nov. 13, the World’s Fastest Half-Mile will once again transform into a winter wonderland, as Bristol Motor Speedway (BMS) hosts The Pinnacle Speedway in Lights Powered by TVA. Presented by Bristol Motor Speedway, The Pinnacle Speedway in Lights Powered by TVA is the largest holiday light show of its kind in the South. Now entering its 19th year, the event is a favorite for thousands of families in the region and beyond. According to Claudia Byrd, executive director of the Bristol Chapter of Speedway Children’s Charities, it takes nearly 2 million lights, plus hundreds of volunteers and dedicated employees to bring the five-mile route to life. “We’re honored to be part of
our region’s Christmastime tradition,” Byrd said. “Hundreds of people come together to volunteer, and thousands more visit and include us in their lasting memories. It’s very rewarding, not only because we love to see our guests’ eyes light up as they drive through the displays, but also because this event is a central source of support for thousands of children in need throughout our region.” Visitors begin their Speedway in Lights journey at the Bristol Dragway entrance just off Highway 394. The route features more than 200 individual exhibits decorating the storied banks of the half-mile track, the straightaways of Thunder Valley, and hundreds of acres of BMS property. New for the 2015 season is the BMS Express, a collaboration between the Speedway and
Northeast State Community College. Students and staff are hard at work transforming one of the track’s shuttle buses into the look of a steam-powered locomotive. Once complete, the Express will offer children and families the opportunity to travel through the exhibits in a warm, indoor environment while enjoying fresh hot chocolate. Reservations for the Express can be made through the BMS Ticket Office. Also new for this season is Jingle Bell Lane, a fast-pass option for guests with tight schedules. Available through the BMS Ticket Office, passes to Jingle Bell Lane allow cars to move to the head of the line. Passes are $40 per car and $55 per van, with available dates including Nov. 27-28, and Dec. 5, 12, 18-23 and 26. Byrd notes that the route through the grounds has been changed slightly to allow for ongoing construction. “We had to make a couple small changes because we’re building Colossus, an amazing new digital display and sound system that will be ready for April 2016. But rest assured, everyone’s favorite displays are included and the route is actually a little longer now,” she said. “Additionally, in honor of all those who have served in our armed forces and emergency services, we’ve built a new large-scale American flag display in the Dragway grandstands.” Returning favorite displays include Dueling Dragsters; The Twelve Days of Christmas; Dinosaur Village; Ripley’s Penguin Playhouse, and; Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies. Visitors will also be treated to the Subway® Symphony of Lights, a dazzling
exhibit that boasts more than 300,000 LED lights synchronized to music. The radiant colors from this ever-changing display are reflected in the Darrell Waltrip Grandstand, which includes more than three acres of aluminum seating. A favorite viewing station for the Subway® Symphony of Lights is Christmas Village, located in the infield. Offering something for all ages, this family-friendly area features food options, hot chocolate, and fire pits for roasting marshmallows. Christmas Village also provides guests an opportunity to visit Santa Claus and enjoy a variety of carnival rides. For those seeking more holidaythemed transportation through the exhibits, Santa’s Speedway Sleigh presented by Dollywood returns for its sixth season. This decorated, open-air tram gives riders a guided trek in which they can have their picture taken for a commemorative keepsake, courtesy of Walgreens, enjoy hot chocolate and hot cider, and receive a free bag of marshmallows to roast over the fire pits during a 30-minute stop in Christmas Village. Towed by a Chevy truck, the sleigh can accommodate up to 30 passengers per trip. The sleigh departs from the boarding station located at the O. Bruton Smith (OBS) building every Wednesday and Thursday night at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $8 each and may be purchased at the OBS ticket office. Groups can reserve the entire sleigh but are asked to call in advance. Parking is located in front of the OBS office building and is accessed by entering at the North Entrance and taking the immedi-
www.speedwayinlights.org
ate right up the hill. Admission to The Pinnacle Speedway in Lights Powered by TVA, open Nov. 13 through Jan. 2, is $12 for cars Sunday through Thursday, and $15 for cars Friday and Saturday. Activity vans are $20 each and buses are $85. The event is open daily from 6p.m.10 p.m., including Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. Shoppers who visit Pinnacle retail locations starting Nov. 13 can bring a register receipt to the Speedway in Lights entrance booth for a Monday visit and receive a $2 discount, per vehicle. No trip to Speedway in Lights is complete without stopping by the Ice Rink, presented by HVAC Inc. One of the Speedway’s most popular non-motorsports-related events, the Ice Rink is the only rink within a 90-minute driving radius of BMS. Located just inside the north entrance of Bristol Motor Speedway, off Volunteer Parkway (Hwy. 11E), it is just $5 for skaters to take to the ice. There is an additional $2 charge for skate rental. The rink closes each Monday for maintenance. A portion of the proceeds from Speedway in Lights benefits the Bristol Chapter of Speedway Children’s Charities. Since its inception in 1996, the Bristol Chapter has raised more than $9 million for area child-based charities. In 2014, the chapter distributed $749,000 to a record-breaking 88 regional children’s agencies. For more information on Speedway in Lights, including the season’s schedule, admission pricing, and promotional guidelines, visit speedwayinlights.org or call 423989-6900
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Claire Lynch Band Takes The Stage
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for Jonesborough Art Initiative
The Town of Jonesborough and organizers of Music on the Square have teamed up to host a series of benefit concerts for public art initiatives including an interactive music walk throughout the historic district. The third concert in the series will take place Nov. 14 at 7 p.m. at the McKinney Center. Long recognized and praised as a creative force in acoustic music, Claire Lynch is a pioneer who continually pushes the boundaries of the bluegrass genre. She was the 2013 Female Vocalist of the Year for the International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA) and a 2012 recipient of the United States Artists Walker Fellowship. Her career has been decorated with many other accolades including two Grammy nominations and three International Bluegrass Music Association Female Vocalist awards in 2010 and 1997. Recently, at the 2014 IBMA Awards, she received two trophies: “Song of the Year” for Dear Sister, a co-write with Louisa Branscomb and title cut of her latest Compass Records release; and “Recorded Event of the Year” for a guest vocal appearance with Special Consensus on Country Boy;
A Bluegrass Tribute to John Denver (Wild Montana Skies). The current Claire Lynch Band is a powerful juggernaut, a quartet that has the innate ability to perfectly interpret the beauty, subtlety, and genre-defying sophistication of Claire’s music. The Claire Lynch Band features like-minded musicians blending tradition and innovation - two-time IBMA-winning bassist-clawhammer banjo player-dancer-percussionist Mark Schatz, soulful mandolinist-guitarist Jarrod Walker, and young string wizard Bryan McDowell, who at 18, won an unprecedented triple win at the Winfield, Kansas National Flatpicking Championship. The concert will serve as a benefit for a series of public art projects set in motion by the Town of Jonesborough and Music on the Square. The first initiative will include an interactive music walk featuring a variety of larger than life instruments similar to that of Freenotes Harmony Park. According to the company’s website, Grammy award-winning designer Richard Cooke created Freenotes to ensure musical success for all players. For over 15 years, Freenotes in-
struments have provided gratifying musical experiences in public and private spaces around the world, because each instrument is designed for perpetually perfect pitch. A staple in playgrounds for encouraging creative tactile play, Freenotes instruments are now highly sought for a wide variety of outdoor settings – from the relaxed to the most sophisticated. As engaging pieces of interactive
art, they encourage a full sensory experience. Constructed for both flawless tune and durability, Freenotes instruments have earned a respected heritage for their musicality and their longevity. The Claire Lynch Band concert will take place on Nov. 14 at 7 p.m. at the McKinney Center. Tickets are $15 general admission. To purchase tickets call 423-753-1010.
Senior Services to host Thanksgiving Dinner and Dance On Friday, Nov. 20, Senior Services at Memorial Park Community Center, 510 Bert St., will host a Thanksgiving Dinner and Dance. Dinner will be served at 5:30 p.m., and the dance will be from 6-9 p.m. with music provided by Eddie Skelton. Admission is $5 per person. Tickets are available for purchase at the Memorial Park Community Center Senior Services Desk. For more information, please call (423)434-6237.
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Traditional Music Programs Featured at Heartwood The Crooked Road: Virginia’s Heritage Music Trail presents the Albert Hash Memorial Band Program, the Wytheville Community College Mountain Music Class & the Honker FFA Bluegrass Band in concert on Thursday, November 12th from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. at Heartwood in Abingdon, VA. This youth music concert is part of The Crooked Road Music Series at Heartwood. The Albert Hash Memorial Band Program, directed by Emily Spencer, is an in-school traditional music program at Grayson County High School and Grayson Highlands School in Southwest Virginia. This unique music program has its roots in the mountain music program that was started at Mt. Rogers Combined School in Whitetop, Virginia in 1982. Albert Hash was a well-known fiddler and fiddle maker and he and his daughter, Audrey, along with his brother and sister-in-law, Thornton and Emily Spencer, were instructors. After his passing in
1983, the band was named in his honor. Students learn to play guitar, fiddle, bluegrass and old time banjo, mandolin, bass and dulcimer, as well as learning about traditional singing and dance. The students will be joined on stage by the WCC Mountain Music Class for this performance. The Honaker FFA Band from Russell County features the two part harmony singing of Patricia Hale and Emily Reynolds. The two have sharpened their harmony skills singing at local churches in the area. Patricia has been singing with the band for three years and Emily has been a member for two years. Joining the band this year is Evan Elswick who plays banjo and lead guitar, and Justin Rowe who plays acoustic bass. Rounding out the band is William Monk, the Agriculture teacher at Honaker High School, who founded the band and plays mandolin. The Crooked Road Music Series takes place each Thursday at Heartwood. The series features
youth artists every 2nd Thursday and showcases venues of The Crooked Road region every 4th Thursday. These events, along with open jams on the 1st, 3rd, (and 5th) Thursdays showcase Southwest Virginia performers. The Crooked Road Music Series is sponsored by The Crooked Road with support from Heartwood, Virginia Commission for the Arts and the National Endowment for the Arts. Heartwood: Southwest Virginia’s Artisan Gateway is located off I-81 at Exit 14 in Abingdon, VA, and features food, music, and craft of Southwest Virginia. Admission to the concert is free and donations will be accepted for Crooked Road Traditional Music Education Program (TMEP). More information can be found at The Crooked Road website, www.thecrookedroad.org, and at www.heartwoodvirginia.org. For additional information, please call (276) 492-2409 or email:info@ thecrookedroad.org.
The Town of Gate City will be honoring all Veterans on November 11th, 2015 at 11:00 AM. The event will take place at Grogan Park at 150 Park Street in Gate City, VA. The Presentation of Colors will be provided by the Overmountain Men Chapter SAR Color Guard, American Legion Gate City Post 265, and the Kingsport American
Legion Hammond Post 3. The National Anthem will be performed by Judy McConnell who is the Minister of Music/Education at the Community Fellowship Baptist Church in Weber City, VA. Music will be performed by the Gate City High School Brass Quintet. In honor of our fallen soldiers Laying of the Wreaths will be done by The Town of Gate City, Carter’s
Fort Chapter DAR, Overmountain Men Chapter SAR, and Elijah Cross II Chapter U.S. Daughters of 1812. The Keynote Speaker for this year’s Veterans Day program will be Mr. Wallace W. Ross, Jr. Mr. Ross is a distinguished Vietnam War Veteran serving in the 1st Cavalry Division. Mr. Ross has been awarded the Purple Heart, Air Medal, Presidential Unit Citation, National Defense Service Metal, Vietnam Service Medal, double Bronze Star Attachment, Combat Infantryman Badge – 1st Award, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Ribbon with Device, Sharpshooter Badge, Rifle Bar, Marksman Badge and Auto Rifle Bar. Mr. Ross is a resident of Gate City, VA and serves as a member of the Town of Gate City Town Council, American Legion; Douglass Alumni Association and Ebony Club; Disable American Veterans # 265. Following the Veterans Day program there will be a Cook-Out provided by the Gate City Civitans Club. The Veterans Day program and Cook-Out is free and everyone is welcome to join Gate City as we honor our Veterans.
Gate City To Honor All Veterans
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Jazz: America’s Music
A recital chronologically demonstrating all styles of Jazz and seeking to educate listeners to the origins and development of Jazz music. You’ll hear styles including Dixieland, African-inspired works, Big Band Swing, Bebop, Cool Jazz, Latin, and Fusion, performed by an amazing collection of professional musicians. Composers include Gershwin, Hancock, Gillespie, and Strayhorn. This popular exciting concert is back by demand & will be led by Dr. Joseph Trivette the Artistic Director and Pianist. Trivette is the holder of the Albert Endowed Chair of Music at Southwest Virginia Community College. His various ensembles have achieved outstanding local and national acclaim. Don’t miss this afternoon of great American Jazz music. This concert was standing room only last year and folks should come early to get a good seat this year. Concert is at 3:00 at Sinking Spring Presbyterian Church Sunday Nov 15th. The doors will on Main Street in Abingdon on open at 2:00. FREE as always to
all area students and $10.00 for the General public
YWCA’s 35th Annual Turkey Trot The YWCA Bristol women’s Turkey Trot and Gobbler’s Gait 5K run/walk will take place on Saturday, Nov.14 at 8 a.m. The Turkey Trot is celebrating its 35th year and is one of the longest-running women’s 5K in the Tri-Cities. The 2015 race features a certified route through the streets of Bristol, Tenn. Female participants are encouraged to register for either the run or walk. The run will begin at 8 a.m. and the walk at 8:05. Participants will receive a goody bag and race shirt, and group winners will
receive awards for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place finishes. Door prizes and complimentary breakfast will be provided after the race. Registration is $25. Early packet pick up is scheduled for Friday, November 13 from 2 – 6 p.m. For more information, a map of the race route or to register, visit www.ywcabristol.org or call 423.968.9444. Registration forms are also available at the YWCA front desk. The 35th Annual Turkey Trot and Gobbler’s Gait is sponsored
by Burke, Powers, and Harty. Other event sponsors include Charlie Sams, MedExpress Urgent Care, Premier Printing, Quaker Steak & Lube, Bristol Herald Courier, Healthy Living Tri-Cities, Kristy Baggarly State Farm, KS Promotional Products, Highlands Podiatry, Alamont Dental, Patty Liggett, Gabriel Speaks Liberty National, Voice Magazine, and Bristol Health Food Store, Piney Flats Chiropractic.
MECC’s Slemp Gallery Features
Printmaker Ralph D. Slatton
Mountain Empire Community College’s Slemp Gallery will feature an exhibit by printmaker Ralph D. Slatton titled “A Print Retrospective” now through December 11. Slatton describes his artwork as influenced by fantasy gothic, printmakers Deborah Mae Broad and Peter Milton, and the movie/
novel “Watership Down.” Slatton adds, “As I embrace this duality, my animals wear disguises of the strong and weak, experience entrapment and freedom.” Slatton holds BFA and MA degrees from Arkansas State University and the MFA from the University of Iowa. He serves as the head of East Tennessee State Universi-
ty’s printmaking program, where he has taught since 1990. MECC’s Slemp Gallery is located in the Wampler Library in Robb Hall. The library is open is Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. For more information, call 276.523.2400 ext. 468
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Unique Holiday Extravaganza
A Unique Holiday Extravaganza is coming to Kingsport Civic Auditorium, on Saturday, November 14, 2015 from 10-4pm. The 2nd annual Sync Healthy Holiday Expo will be filled with shopping, food, and health information. The Blood Mobile will be present. Local vendors will provide unique merchandise to help start the holiday shopping season. Multiple health entities will be present to provide health information in addition to exercise and cooking demonstrations.
Doors open to the public at 10 am. There will be prizes distributed throughout the day and the 1st 50 participants will receive a special shopping bag. Admission is 3 dollars for participants ages 12 and up, free to children under age 12. Admission is, also, free to those who donate blood at the blood mobile during the event. This event is sponsored by Sync. Sync is a nonprofit organization affiliated with Agape Outreach in Marion Va. The mission of Sync is to promote
Jonesborough to Host 34th Annual Holiday Craft Show
interest in higher education- especially among adult learners. We provide social networking, financial assistance, and support to nontraditional students seeking to attend an institute of higher learning. Our current target population is Adult Learners in Southwestern VA and East Tennessee. For more information or if you are interested in being a The Town of Jonesborough is set vendor, please visit www.getto host the 34th Annual Holiday synched.org or contact us at Craft Show on Friday and Saturgetsynched@gmail.com. day, November 13 and 14 from 10
a.m. until 5 p.m. both days. Hundreds of beautifully handcrafted gifts and Christmas decor will be on sale featuring local and regional artisans and crafters, as well as residents from surrounding states. Items include holiday and fall décor, handbags, woodcarvings, jewelry, books, quilted items, dog apparel, aprons and clothing, among other unique items. Nearly 40 vendors will be
showcasing their talents inside the Visitors Center, as well as an additional marketplace located outside in the main parking lot area. Admission is $1 for adults and free for children 12 & under to attend the Craft Show. Proceeds from admission benefit Jonesborough’s free At Home With Santa event in December. All vendor spaces for the show are sold out. For more information about the 34th Annual Holiday Craft Show visit historicjonesborough.com or call 423.753.1010.
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Sycamore Shoals State Historic Area
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Seeks to Enhance Visitor’s Experience through Fundraiser Auction Sycamore Shoals State Historic Area invites you to our November Auction & Fundraiser being held on Friday, November 13th at 7 pm. Doors open at 6 pm so you may view the items to be auctioned. We hope you will support this event which is dedicated to raising funds to support improvements to and care of our Interpretive Exhibits and Museum which opened in June of 2013. Since its opening, the Sycamore Shoals Exhibits have become a showcase for our community and continue to attract new visitors who travel here to experience our history. If you have not been by to check out this wonderful new addition to your State Park, we encourage you to do so! This event will raise funds to improve the already outstanding museum to make the experiences of our visitors even more enjoyable. Additions to the museum will include enhancement of our lifelike three dimensional exhibits, display cases to showcase important and fragile artifacts, addition-
al text panels to accompany the artifacts, and new ways to make the museum more interactive for our visitors. Some of the items that will be included in the auction include, a beautiful hand pieced Quilt made by the Sycamore Stitchers, an autographed picture of Eli Manning holding the Super Bowl trophy, an autographed picture of Butch Jones, Autographed script and photos from the hit television show NCIS, a large Snap-on Cooler designed as a tool chest, an 18th Century Cherokee Trade necklace made from beads that are over 150 years old, a handcrafted knife and display stand from local primitive artisan Bob Estep, a rafting trip for two with Wahoo’s Adventures, A painting of the Carter Mansion by local artist David Cramer, 216 sq. feet of western cedar laminate flooring, and numerous gift cards from area restaurants. Also, tickets to Ripley’s Aquarium, Barter Theater and The Tavern, Grandfather Mountain, and the Gray Fos-
sil Site! There will also be select items from the Sabine Hill house restoration for bid. Along with the public auction there will be many smaller items in a Silent Auction as well. Mark your calendars now for this fun and entertaining event dedicated to enhancing the Interpretive Exhibits at Sycamore Shoals State Historic Area! We would like to thank our supporters and encourage you to join the list! The Sycamore Stitchers, Burgie Drug Store, Felty-Roland Florist, the Watauga Valley Art League, John Sevier-Sarah Hawkins Chapter DAR, Charlie Long III of Allstate Insurance Company, Indian Mountain State Park, Artist Kay Braswell, Eli Manning, Gary Stevens, Butch Jones, East Tennessee Nursery Association, Citizens Bank, Larry Proffitt, Elizabethton Federal Savings and Loan, SnapOn Tools, Bob Estep, Ripley’s Aquarium, John Parrish, Grandfather Mountain, Meredith Valley
Flint Knapped Knife by Bob Estep Cabins, Red Lobster, Hampton Inn, Gray Fossil Site, Wahoo’s Adventures, Primo’s, Jim Bishop, Carolyn Buckles, David Cramer and Winchester Flooring. For questions, additional information, or to contribute an item or
service to the auction, please contact Johnnie Pilk or Chad Bogart at 423-543-5808. Sycamore Shoals State Historic Area, 1651 West Elk Avenue, Elizabethton, TN 37643 • www.sycamoreshoalstn.org
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An evening with The Barefoot Movement The City of Kingsport Office of Cultural Arts in partnership with Engage Kingsport proudly presents an evening with The Barefoot Movement at the Renaissance Arts Center Theater in Kingsport, TN on Friday November 13, 2015 at 7:30 pm, as part of the Engage Kingsport Performing Arts Series. The Barefoot Movement have been making big waves in the folk world since the release of their 2011 debut album Footwork. They last performed in Kingsport in 2014 and we are very excited to welcome them back. Heralded by CMT Edge as “one of the most promising bands on the bluegrass scene” the music of the Nashville based group The Barefoot Movement is as down to earth as their intention for members of their audience: sit back, relax, take your shoes off, and stay a while. All the worries and frustrations of the world melt away as the charming four-piece acoustic band takes listeners back to a simpler place and time. Whether you’re seeking emotional ballads or rip-roaring barn-burners, you can expect
a collection of music that offers something for everyone. With two full length albums, several crosscountry tours, and appearances at some of the top bluegrass festivals in the United States already under their belt, the possibilities are endless. The group has enjoyed almost non-stop touring including a
trip to Burkina Faso, Africa where they were guests of the American Embassy. Debuting in September, 2014, their third release, “The High Road EP” showcases traditional material that has consistently been among the crowd favorites at their live performances. Crowding around a single microphone, their show is as fun to watch as it is to hear, and often begs the question, how has no one lost an eye from a collision with the fiddle bow? The smiles on the faces of the band are obvious displays of the joy and excitement they feel when performing and the audience shares in the fun. With effortlessly executed transitions, the pacing between the softer and more vigorous numbers constantly has fans on the edge of their seats. From the foot-tapping instrumental “Sheepherder” to the emotional ballad “Thunder” and everything in between, these roots music newcomers have assembled quite the collection here, both old songs and new, offering something for everyone. The Renaissance Arts Center Theatre is located at 1200 E. Center Street, Kingsport TN 37660. For more information or to purchase tickets to any of our events contact the City of Kingsport Office of Cultural Arts at (423) 3928414 or log on to www.EngageKingsport.com
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In honor of veterans in our community, and the men and women who proudly serve our country around the world today, Paramount Bristol Presents…
Stephen Lang in BEYOND GLORY. “Some stories should never be forgotten.”
Stage and screen star Stephen Lang, will perform his one-man tour de force BEYOND GLORY at the Paramount Center for the Arts – Bristol at 3 performances on November 13 and 14. Beyond Glory presents the stories of eight veterans from World War II, Korea, and Vietnam, rendering first-hand accounts of valor, which resulted in the nation’s highest military award, the Medal of Honor. “Recipients of the Medal of Honor, each of these men went above and beyond the call of duty to a place where bravery and humility meet. In a stunning tour de force performance, actor Stephen Lang leads us on a journey through WWII, Korea and Vietnam, taking us to a realm beyond.” …Broadway.com Gala Benefit Performance, on Friday, November 13, includes a reception with Mr. Lang. Proceeds from all performances benefit The Paramount Foundation. This performance is made possible by underwriting from our corporate partners: Edward Jones, Permatile, Rice Dental Arts, and
the Tennessee Arts Commission. Tickets for all performances are available online: www.paramountbristol.org. By phone: 423274-8920 or in person at the Paramount Bristol box office at 518 State Street, Bristol, TN.
Paramount Bristol will donate $5 from each paid admission to the Military Officers Association of America, for the training and purchase of Service Dogs to assist disabled Veterans in the Tri-Cities region.
November 10, 2015 | The Loafer | Page 11
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Gosh, I’m Thankful You may have noticed at this time of year, people begin to post daily on Facebook lists of things they are thankful for. It’s the digital age version of Aunt Verna demanding everyone at the Thanksgiving table list five things, while you sit there starving. There’s nothing wrong with this, It’s good to be aware of all the good things in your life. However, as with most things, there are those who get carried away with it. For the sake of time saving, not clogging up Facebook feeds, and my own peace of mind-I’d like to take some time this week
to share my list of things I’m thankful for. One item for every day in the month of November. • I’m thankful for that red stick that comes in the package with the cheese and crackers. • I’m thankful for that red stripe that comes on the package of cheese that makes it easy to open. • I’m thankful for cheese. • I’m thankful for those cocktail weenies you see simmering in crock pots at parties this time of year. I always over do it on those. • I’m thankful for Pepto Bismol. • I’m thankful the song “Wagon
Wheel” gives me a chance to yelp every time someone says “Johnson City, Tennessee.” • I’m thankful for Zinc Oxide. • I’m thankful for the magical, benevolent demon who reminds me everyday of the horrors of what a world without waffles would look like, his name is Willy. • I’m thankful for my pet cat. • I’m thankful I have managed to teach my cat how to play the opening chord to “Purple Rain.” • I’m thankful that Nate Morabito is the Tri-Cities’ own Darkwing Duck.
• I’m thankful for the machine that goes ping. •I’m thankful for my various business ventures. • I’m thankful you’ll soon see Cap’n Cupcake’s Bubble Bath on store shelves. Lot of hard work on that one. •I’m thankful for all day breakfast at McDonald’s. Daddy needs his sausage biscuits. • I’m thankful for the monkey’s paw I found that grants me wishes, there’s no way I see that turning South anytime soon. • I’m thankful for my stage work. • I’m thankful for the debut next summer of my all Clog Dancer tribute to Beyonce, “Cloglicious.” • I’m thankful my uncle left me his stake in the Quaker company. • I’m thankful for oatmeal. • I’m thankful for those small moments between two lovers. Quiet moments when you look deeply into the eyes of the one you love, then notice the reflection of a ninja creeping up behind you in their cornea. • I’m thankful for my reflexes for swift dealings with ninjas. I lead a dangerous life. • I’m thankful the clerks at Wal-
green’s don’t give me judgemental looks when I have to purchase embarrassing personal hygiene products. • I’m thankful no video exists of the time I was found naked in the back of a gas station yelling “I’m the alpha male of Cleveland!” • I’m thankful for the little chocolate mints you get at the end of a meal. • I’m thankful the little chocolate mints you get at the end of a meal were named after me. • I’m thankful that when I hear the opening notes to “Sweet Home Alabama” my eyes roll back into my head and I black out for the duration. •I’m thankful for the Grammy I have for my instrumental rock album “Ross Shreds Zappa.” • I’m thankful that everyone loves my kitchen, but a little less so they feel the same about my bathroom. • I’m thankful for frozen waffles. There, that should cover a month’s worth of gratitude in just a few minutes of time! Isn’t it great when things can be so efficient? See you next week.
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Raisin’ Cane
November 10, 2015 | The Loafer | Page 13
Harlem Renaissance Odyssey ‘exquisite edutainment’ sance Odyssey, an homage to the voices of the Harlem Renaissance, on Tuesday, Nov. 17, at 7:30 p.m. at the Wellmont Regional Center for the Performing Arts at Northeast State Community College, Blountville. Inspired by the 1923 novel Cane by Jean Toomer and the works of Renaissance authors, including Langston Hughes and Zora Neale Hurston, Raisin’ Cane “is a sweet tribute to Harlem’s glory days,” The Arizona Daily Star says. The rise of the African-American art scene had been developing since the turn of the century, and with the return of hope-filled It has taken half a dozen years of journey through the Harlem Re- African-American soldiers from collaborating and tweaking while naissance.” World War I, the Harlem RenaisGuy and Sharpe and his jazz sance began. Artists, musicians performing it, but writer and cellist Harry Clark, actress and danc- trio will take Upper East Tennes- and writers, such as Toomer, er Jasmine Guy and bassist and see residents on a multimedia so- Hughes, Countee Cullen, W.E.B. composer Avery Sharpe have cre- journ to 1920s Harlem, N.Y., called Du Bois, Marcus Garvey and othated what Guy calls “this magical Raisin’ Cane: A Harlem Renais- ers, became the voice of a genera-
tion – a generation struggling with the past but hopeful for the future. The birth of jazz and the music of that renaissance “still reverberates around the universe,” says Sharpe, who composed and arranged most of the show’s music. “American music would not have the extraordinary sonorous qualities it possesses if not for the creative geniuses of this fruitful period,” he says, pointing to “Fats” Waller, “Duke” Ellington, Eubie Blake and Louis Armstrong as music legends of the period. “The Harlem Renaissance is a period of the arts and artwork that I have always found to be very powerful,” says Anita DeAngelis, director of Mary B. Martin School of the Arts, which is bringing Raisin’ Cane to the region. “There’s a little bit in this performance for a lot of different audiences. It will be a total immersion in that unique
time in America.” Guy acts as a storyteller, guiding the audience through the ebullient period of the Harlem Renaissance in what the Dayton Daily News wrote is a “lively, informative, motivating, and entertaining” performance. Guy, whose professional career began with the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater in New York, is a regular presence on the stage, as well as film and television. Her recent works include, the recently released film Big Stone Gap, The Vampire Dairies and stage work in Chicago, Grease and The Wiz. She also starred in A Different World on TV, for which she won six consecutive NAACP Image Awards and, since then, has written and directed numerous projects
Raisin’ Cane .... Contiuned on page 19
Page 14 | The Loafer | November 10, 2015
RIVERBANK RAMBLERS at Quaker Steak & Lube 8pm
- TUESDAY - Nov. 10th WHISKEY DICK at The Mecca Lounge 8pm
AARON ROBERTS THE FUSTICS at Acoustic Coffeehouse
- WEDNESDAY - Nov. 11th OPEN MIC at WoodStone Deli EUGENE WOLF & MITYA KUZNETSOV at Down Home 8pm
MIKE JUNE / MAL COOPER at Acoustic Coffeehouse
SOL DRIVEN TRAIN
at Holston River Brewing Co. 8pm
INDIGHOST
FIDDLIN’ CARSON PETERS BAND
STEVEN LANG’s BEYOND GLORY
MATT “ELVIS” DOLLAR
at The Shack 8pm
at The Paramount Center for the Arts
THE PLUM SMUGGLERS at State Line Bar & Grill
JUSTIN FEDOR
at The Willow Tree Coffee House & Music Room 8pm
SOUL FINGER
- THURSDAY - Nov. 12th JAZZ at Wellington’s - Carnegie Hotel THE WAY DOWN WANDERERS JUSTIN MYCHALS
CATFISH FRYE BAND
at The Tavern @ Ridgefields 7pm
GRAND OLE UPROAR at Bone Fire Smokehouse
WILL PAYNE HARRISON at The Acoustic Coffeehouse
- FRIDAY - Nov. 13th THE SWEET TREATS
at Acoustic Coffeehouse
SULLIVAN STREET
HUNTER GRIGG
at Yee Haw Brewing Co.
UNDER THE TABLE
(Rock, Classic Rock) at Holiday Inn - Johnson City (Rockin’ Boogie Blues) at Biggie’s Clam Bar
LIVE MUSIC
JASON ELLIS
at Country Club Bar & Grill 8pm
JUSTIN CRIDER
at The Casbah 8pm
- SATURDAY - Nov. 14th STEP COUSINS
at Family Barn 7:30pm
LAURA THURSTON (Folk)
at Jiggy Ray’s Pizzaria
JUSTIN FEDOR
at The Willow Tree Coffee House & Music Room 8pm
at Jiggy Ray’s Pizzaria 7pm
at The Willow Tree Coffee House & Music Room ACOUSTIFRIED (Country) at Rush Street
WISE OLD RIVER
AMY STEINBERG OPEN JAM
at Kosher Pickle
SHOOTER
at The Down Home
(Country, Classic Rock, Oldies) at Kgt. Eagles
at The Kingsport Renaissance Center 7pm
at Triple B Brewery 6pm
BAREFOOT MOVEMENT
at Carter Family Fold at Bristol VFW
BAKERSFIELD (Alt. Country, Outlaw Country, Texas Honky Tonk) at David Thompson’s Produce 7pm ACOUSTIFRIED (Country) at Country Club Bar & Grill
CHUCK BRODSKY at The Down Home 7pm
THE GRAND OLE UPROAR at O’Mainnin’s Pub & Grill 10pm
JASON ELLIS
at Woodstone Deli
MOTEL RODEO / HEARTS GONE SOUTH at Capone’s
BLUESMAN (Blues, Jazz, Rock, Pop) at Bone Fire Smokehouse CARRIE MORRISON
at Bone Fire Smokehouse LOOSE LEAVES KIDS OUR AGE (50’s - 90’s, rock n roll, at Acoustic Coffeehousee country, a bit of everything) LIL’ MERLE & THE at Friends of Kgt. Senior Center 7pm COUNTRY ROCKERS
at Capone’s
ROMAN RIOT A FLEETING FAREWELL REALITY SHAPING
(Country, Southern Rock, Oldies) at The Show Palace 7pm
JUSTIN MYCHALS
at The Hideaway 9pm
at O’Mainnin’s Pub
at The Willow Tree Coffee House & Music Room 7pm
SOUTHERN COUNTRYMEN BAND at Buffalo Ruritan NIGHTSHIFT
CHRIS LONG
at Family Barn 7:30pm
- SUNDAY - Nov. 15th ANDREW DELANEY at Bone Fire Smokehouse
OPEN MIC
at Acoustic Coffeehouse
- MONDAY - Nov. 16th TOMMY SHORTT, EVAN KENNY & THIS DIXIELAND SQUIRREL SKINNERS at Bristol’s Pickin’ Porch
OPEN MIC
at Acoustic Coffeehouse
BLUEGRASS JAM
at Hardee’s (Boones Creek)
KARAOKE TUESDAY
Karaoke At Numan’s - JCTN ***********************
WEDNESDAY
Karaoke w/ Southern Sounds Karaoke at American Legion 8pm Karaoke At Bristol VFW - BTN Turn the Page Karaoke At VFW Post 2108 - JCTN ***********************
THURSDAY
Karaoke At Numan’s - JCTN Karaoke w/ Southern Sounds Karaoke at Macadoo’s 8pm Karaoke At Holiday Inn - JCTN Karaoke w/ Absolute Entertainment At Everette’s Bar & Grille - JCTN ***********************
FRIDAY
KaraokeAt Bristol VFW - BTN 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 - JCTN Karaoke At Elizabethton VFW Karaoke w/ DJ Marques At Holiday Inn (Exit 7) - BVA Karaoke At Numan’s - JCTN ***********************
SATURDAY
Turn the Page Karaoke at VFW Post 2108 - JCTN Karaoke At Numan’s - JCTN Karaoke at Bristol VFW ***********************
SUNDAY
Karaoke w/ Absolute Entertainment At Everette’s Bar & Grille - JCTN ***********************
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Spotlight Directory
Acoustic Coffeehouse 415 W Walnut St. Johnson City 423/434.9872 Biggies Clam Bar 417 W Stone Dr Kingsport 423/765-9633 Bone Fire Smokehouse at the Hardware 260 W Main St Abingdon VA 276/623-0037 Bristol’s Pickin’ Porch 620 State St Bristol 423/573-2262 Bristol VFW Post 6975 14 16th St. Bristol TN 423/ 764-0381 Buffalo Ruritan 200 Willowbrook Dr. Bluff City 423/391-7382 The Casbah 807 W. Walnut St. Johnson City 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 The Hideaway 235 E. Main St Johnson City 423/ 926-3896 Holiday Inn - Exit 7 3095 Linden Dr., Bristol, VA 276/466-4100 Holiday Inn 101 W. Springbrook Dr. Johnson City 423/282-4611 Jiggy Ray’s 610 E. Elk Ave Elizabethton 423/ 518-1500
Kingsport Eagles 926 E. Stone Dr. Kingsport Kingsport Renaissance Center 1200 E Center St Kingsport 423/392-8415 Kosher Pickle 3900 Bristol Hwy Johnson City 423/ 979-7000 The Mecca Lounge 117 Spring St Johnson City 423/928-9360 O’Mainnin’s Pub 712 State St Bristol 423/844-0049 The Outdoorsman 4535 Highway 11W Kingsport Paramount Center for the Arts 516 State St. Bristol TN 423/ 274-8920 The Shack 4231 Ft. Henry Drive Kingsport 423/ 212.3110 The Show Palace 14364 Lee Hwy Bristol VA 276/494-6610 State Line Bar & Grill 644 State Street Bristol 423/652-0792 Triple B Brewery 935 Wilcox Ct. #105 Kingsport 423/963-3609 Uncorked 316 Broad St. #102 Kingsport 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 Woodstone Deli 3500 Fort Henry Dr Kingsport 423/245-5424 Yee Haw Brewing Company 126 Buffalo St. Johnson City
Justin Fedor
The Willow Tree Coffeehouse & Music Room Friday, Nov. 13th | 8:00pm
November 10, 2015 | The Loafer | Page 15
Page 16 | The Loafer | November 10, 2015
“The Station” Occupied 15 Years Many of you have seen it moving in the night and anyone age 15 or under has never known a human to not be living aboard it. That “it” is the amazing International Space Station (ISS), celebrating this month 15 years of continuous occupation by humans. Orbiting 225 miles overhead inside the most complex object ever built are six space explorers representing a mix of cultures from the 17-nation consortium that has operated the ISS seemingly without political boundaries or government drama. Some think the international harmony in outer space is unique enough to garner the Nobel Peace Prize for what spacefliers and insiders simply call “The Station.” America, Russia, Japan, Canada and a European group of nations have built and operated the ISS as an example to the world of what can be achieved with the respectful exchange of ideas. The statistics of building and maintaining this incredible milestone of human engineering are a testament to the Space Age. Fully completed in 2011 after 35 Space Shuttle missions and a halfdozen Russian rocket launches of vital hardware, The Station is made up of 15 pressurized segments with the inside volume of a Boeing 747 jetliner. It weighs nearly a million pounds, the equivalent of 350 automobiles. Energy is supplied by two sets of solar panels in an array that spans a football field. Rotated toward the Sun for 45 minutes each 90-minute orbit, their reflected sunlight is what makes the ISS so bright in our night time sky. A marvel of engineering, this third generation of ISS solar panels has helped revolutionize the affordability of using solar
energy on Earth. So far there have been 220 people from 17 countries who have made 373 spaceflights to the ISS. There have been 70 manned missions of Space Shuttles and Soyuz spacecraft, and more than 60 unmanned vehicles have docked with The Station. It is the most expensive object ever built by mankind at $100 billion—half of which paid by America. And the spinoffs of items used on Earth in today’s 21st Century technology number in the thousands. The first manned crews were three people “Expeditions” and expanded to six people with overlapping time frames. Each person stays a cycle of four months, and then returns in a different Soyuz spaceship than the one that brought them. As of November 2015, there have been 45 Expeditions, many of them rocketed up and travel-
ing back in the now retired Space Shuttle. Since 2012 the only access to The Station has been the Russian tried-and-true three-person Soyuz spacecraft first developed in the 1960s. Four times a year a resupply spaceship is launched, and until recently they have been the Russian Progress, an adapted Soyuz. Food, fuel, clothing, electronics and personal items from family are shuttled to The Station. European Space Agency had three reusable cargo ships brought up by the Space Shuttle, and private industry Space X has performed three resupply missions to the ISS with their unmanned spacecraft Dragon. Not to be ignored are the more than 200 spacewalks of at least two people who worked as hard hats assembling pieces of The Station, making routine maintenance and a few emergency repairs. No one has been injured. The first permanent crew of No-
vember 2000 had American William Shepard, a veteran of three Shuttle flights totaling 18 days, as commander of Expedition 1. His two Russian space colleagues, Sergei Krikalev and Yuri Gidzenko had each spent nearly a year on their country’s MIR Space station. They stayed 136 days and performed 22 science experiments. Today’s crew of Expedition 45 is scheduled to perform 191 science experiments. They include Commander Scott Kelly, 51, veteran of two Shuttle missions and one command of Expedition 25, and Mikhail Korniyenko, 55, of Expedition 24, who are spending nearly a year on the ISS as science “guinea pigs” for long-duration spaceflight. They are scheduled to return to Earth in March 2016. The other current occupants of the ISS are: Russians Oleg Kononenko and Sergey Volkov, Kimiya Yui of Japan and Kjell N. Lindgren of America. Three will rotate out in December, and three more members of the new Expedition 46 mission will be blasted via Russian Soyuz to The Station. You can wave to them during the frequent 1-6 minutes passes in the early evening or pre-dawn skies. Usually there is one week a month when the ISS is visible in the evening sky, and one week in the morning. Though it goes around the Earth 17 times in a 24-hour period at 17,500 mph, it is seen reflecting sunlight in hours after or before sunrise. Usually the brightest star in the sky, it slowly moves from the west toward the east, sometimes disappearing in the Earth’s shadow
a telescope during passes, and some talented astrophotographers have photographed the silhouette of the ISS as it passes in front of the Sun and Moon. Humans living off their home planet. This has been a dream of mankind for thousands of years. The concept created a whole genre of literature, science fiction. And a new chapter in the long, adventurous nature of an intelligent species called Homo Sapiens. So far, one of mankind’s masterpieces is the International Space Station. It’s not just a technical triumph unlike any other, but the ISS is an orbiting landmark like the Freedom Tower in Manhattan. Two hundred miles up in the sky, The Station has embraced today’s technology in a weightless world, while pioneering better things for the gravity below. Yet when seen from approaching spacecraft, the ISS has the spiritual aura of the Taj Mahal. Today’s social media world has plenty to say and see about the awesome International Space Station. NASA has devoted to the ISS a website, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, apps and good old fashioned e-mail. You can easily find the next visible passes from your location on NASA or an Android/Apple application. You can even get an alert to your email or Smart Phone. Taken for granted and ignored unless something is wrong, The Station was built with a small piece of your tax dollars is one of the most amazing things ever constructed by man.
cast into space. It’s easy to record the “star trail” of the International Space Station with a camera, a tripod and 30 second exposure. Astrophotographers have fun recording the ISS through
The next time the International Space Station flies over the skies of your neighborhood go out and have a good wave. And enjoy another moment to be proud you’re an American.
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November 10, 2015 | The Loafer | Page 17
Celestial events in the skies for the week of Nov. 10th - Nov. 16th, 2015 as compiled for The Loafer by Mark D. Marquette. The great Leonid Meteor Shower begins this week and you might see 5-10 meteors an hour in the early morning before peaking to 20 or so an hour on Nov. 18th. The Moon is a thin crescent in the west during early evening hours, so there are plenty of dark skies in the evening. And how! Are you adjusted to the darkness settling in before 6 pm? There certainly are a lot of people yawning around supper time! But the Eastern Standard Time switch is welcomed by stargazers, who can see a few celestial sights and still get a good night’s sleep.
Tues. Nov. 10
The early evening finds a void of stars when looking south, except one bright, but rather lonely looking star. This special star is called Fomalhaut, which means fish’s mouth of the constellation Piscis Austrinus, the Southern Fish. Fomalhaut has a huge ring of possibly coalescing planets. All by itself in the southern skies, this amazing star is also nicknamed “the lonely one.”
Wed. Nov. 11
New Moon is today, our celestial neighbor below the Sun and invisible in the daytime. On this 1966 date in space history NASA launched Gemini XII, the last of the twoman missions laying ground work for the Apollo Moon landings. Crucial was the success of two spacewalks by Buzz Aldrin testPhoto by MarQ ing the moon suit. Two and one-half years later, Aldrin would stand on the surface of Sat. Nov. 14 A beautiful crescent Moon will be hanging the Moon with Neil Armstrong during the above the western horizon in the 5 pm twihistoric Apollo 11 conquest of the Moon. light, setting quickly. The Milky Way makes Thurs. Nov. 12 On this night in 1833 the Leonid Mete- a giant arch across the western horizon as it or Shower rained “shooting stars” like has slowly sets. never been seen before. Hundreds a minute, thousands an hour streaked the skies as Earth plowed though an unusually thick section of cosmic debris. In 1966 and then in 1999, another such meteor “storm” was experienced but not as intense at the 1833 event. The Leonid meteor storm is a phenomenon that happens every 33 years.
Sun. Nov. 15
On this 1971 date in space history NASA’s Mariner 9 became the first spacecraft to orbit Mars. And it still is, though now defunct. Mariner 9 made many discoveries, including the giant shield volcanoes and the 2,000 mile canyon that bares its name, Valles Marineris. Other Red Planet orbiters have been Viking 1 and Viking 2, Mars Global Surveyor, Odyssey, Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter; Europe’s Mars Explorer and India’s Mars Orbiter Mission.
You won’t see it, but the dwarf planet Pluto is just three degrees below the crescent Moon on the border of the constellations Sagittarius and Capricornus. The Moon is about one-half degree across, so Pluto is six lunar diameters away, to faint to see without the quality telescope. But each hour, the Moon moves its own diameter to the left, or east. In one day, the Moon moves about 12 degrees left, and that’s a little longer than your hand span held at arm’s length.
Fri. Nov. 13
When darkness fully grips us at 6 pm (!), the Milky Way is high in the west and in the east is Pegasus the Horse. The Summer Triangle of three bright stars is easy to see in the west, while the fainter four stars of the Great Square of Pegasus fly high to a point overhead by 10 pm.
Mon. Nov. 16
Page 18 | The Loafer | November 10, 2015
IN THEATRES NOW Box Office Top 10
In Theaters Now The Martian (2015)
Holiday Preview Now that the Jack o’ Lanterns have been put away until next year, it’s full steam ahead to Thanksgiving and Christmas! The aforementioned holidays also bring on an onslaught on new movies to your local theaters. This week I will be providing a few suggestions for you holiday viewing pleasure. Of course, unless you have been living in a cave, you know the first “Star Wars” movie since 2005 will be hitting theaters this December. “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” opens on December 18th, and will no doubt smash box office records as the actors from the original trilogy, Harrison Ford, Carrie Fisher and Mark Hamill will all appear in the film. However, before December 18th there are other choice cinema morsels to tempt you. By the time you read this, the latest Jame Bond movie, “Spectre” will be in theaters along with the first feature film starring the Peanuts gang. I, for one, am as excited about the Bond film as any film coming out Fall/Winter. Hitting theaters on November 13th are “By The Sea” starring real life couple Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie Pitt, in a tale of a trouble marriage. Inspiring fare will be presented in “My All American”, the true story set in the world of University of Texas football starring Aaron Eckhart and Finn Wittrock. For lighter fare you may want to take in “Love the Coopers”, a comedy set during Christmas starring Olivia Wilde and Diane Keaton among others. November 20th brings another sure to be smash hit to theaters, “The Hunger Games: Mockingjay-
During a manned mission to Mars, Astronaut Mark Watney is presumed dead after a fierce storm and left behind by his crew. But Watney has survived and finds himself stranded and alone on the hostile planet. With only meager supplies, he must draw upon his ingenuity, wit and spirit to subsist and find a way to signal to Earth that he is alive.
a twist on the legendary tale. For fans of animation and dinosaurs, Goosebumps (2015) the 25th also brings “The Good A teenager teams up with the Dinosaur”, a tale of dinosaurs and daughter of young adult horror humans co-existing. author R. L. Stine after the writer’s imaginary demons are set free on the town of Madison, Delaware.
Bridge of Spies (2015)
During the Cold War, an American lawyer is recruited to defend an arrested Soviet spy in court, and then help the CIA facilitate an exchange of the spy for the Soviet captured American U2 spy plane pilot, Francis Gary Powers.
Hotel Transylvania 2 (2015) Part 2”, which brings to a conclusion the film series starring Jennifer Lawrence. In addition to the “Hunger Games” movie, Tom Hardy returns to theaters in “Legend”, the story of London’s most notorious gangsters, Reggie and Ron Kray. November 25th unleashes “Victor Frankenstein” to theaters. The film stars James McAvoy and Daniel Radcliffe in
Dracula and his friends try to bring out the monster in his half human, half vampire grandson in order to keep Mavis from leaving the hotel. December kicks off on the 4th with a new version of “Macbeth”, this one starring Michael Fassbender. Christian Bale, Ryan Gosling and Brad Pitt team up for the December 11th release “The Big Short”, a tale set in the world of high-fiance. If you are not a “Star Wars” fan, the film “Sisters”, a comedy starring Tina Fey and Amy designed to tickle your funny bone is coming December 18th. Christmas Day releases include “Concussion”, featuring Will Smith as the doctor who discovered CTE (chronic traumatic encephalopathy) in football players. Also released the 25th is a remake of “Point Break”, this one starring Ray Winstone among others. Comedy will also hit theaters on the 25th with Will Ferrell’s “Daddy’s Home”, which features
Burnt (2015)
Adam Jones (Bradley Cooper) is a Chef who destroyed his career with drugs and diva behavior. He cleans up and returns to London, determined to redeem himself by spearheading a top restaurant that can gain three Michelin stars. Ferrell as a stepdad competing for the affections of his step kids. Christmas Day will also present Leonardo DiCaprio in the Oscar bait film “The Revenant”, a tale of vengeance based on true events from the 1820’s. There you have a few of the many stocking stuffers that will hit theaters in the months of November and December to take us through the holidays in true Hollywood style.
The Last Witch Hunter (2015)
The last witch hunter is all that stands between humanity and the combined forces of the most horrifying witches in history.
Paranormal Activity: The Ghost Dimension (2015)
Using a special camera that can see spirits, a family must protect their daughter from an evil entity with a sinister plan.
Our Brand Is Crisis (2015)
A battle-hardened American political consultant is sent to help reelect a controversial president in Bolivia, where she must compete with a long-term rival working for another candidate.
Crimson Peak (2015)
In the aftermath of a family tragedy, an aspiring author is torn between love for her childhood friend and the temptation of a mysterious outsider. Trying to escape the ghosts of her past, she is swept away to a house that breathes, bleeds - and remembers.
Steve Jobs (2015)
Steve Jobs takes us behind the scenes of the digital revolution, to paint a portrait of the man at its epicenter. The story unfolds backstage at three iconic product launches, ending in 1998 with the unveiling of the iMac. Source: IMDb.com (11/07/2015)
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Raisin’ Cane ....
November 10, 2015 | The Loafer | Page 19 Continued from page 13
“I love doing this show,” Guy said in a recent D.C. Metro Theatre Arts interview. “It’s so much fun. It’s clear and it gives you a lot of information and in a very entertaining way. You just kind of get lost in the times and what it felt like to be alive back then, ‘a new negro.’ “This was the decade of the ‘new negro,’ where blacks were moving to the big city and stripping off their overalls and work boots and putting on hats and gloves and going to the Savoy and being lovely.” Using imagery, movement, music, song and literature, Raisin’ Cane transports audience members to the Savoy or any Harlem speakeasy for a lively evening chock-full of poetry, painting, jazz music and dance – all the arts that were in full flower during that exciting time. “Part of my passion for this show and why I’ve done it for so long over the years is that [in schools] we really just teach black history from Harriet Tubman to Martin Luther King,” says Guy, who this fall is shooting Zoe Ever After with Brandy Norwood for BET. “You know we skip huge events and cultural shifts in the American psyche, including the Reconstruction period after the abolishment of slavery after the Civil War. We skip the artistic renaissance that was happening in our country. We skip the birth of jazz and blues. “We also teach black history as a separate American history, and it’s almost impossible to do that. I feel that we are so interwined. We resonate from each other – as Americans. If you are only going to teach one side of the story in American history, then we are not learning what it is to be a full American, and we are continuing a divisive culture as opposed to one of unity. One could not exist without each other.” Music plays a large part in that history, and Raisin’ Cane, which was written and conceived by Clark, features an original score – as well as some old standards – by Avery Sharpe. Considered one of the best jazz bassists of his generation, Sharpe is joined by percussionist and vocalist Kevin Sharpe and violinist Diane Monroe. “People often think of the instrumentation for this period in jazz as being piano, trumpet, reeds and trombone,” Sharpe says. “I chose violin because violin has a rich history in jazz from its beginning. Precursors to the modern violin can be found in ancient Africa. This might explain why Africans were able to adapt to the instrument they were introduced to in America during plan-
tation times. Violin was easily adopted into jazz at its formation.” The intersection of many minds and legacies have resulted in what the New York Amsterdam News calls “exquisite edutainment.” “We have such a good time,” Guys says. “It’s a very uplifting show that we can celebrate all of this beauty together and claim it as our own.” The educational aspect – and positive message – of this Harlem Renaissance Odyssey is an important factor in why Guy, Sharpe and cast continue to travel the country “raisin’ cane.” “Historically I feel like we’re in a time that is frightening,” Guy says. “I am a mother of a 16-year-old. I am glad I can say, ‘Hey, look, you guys: We also come from this. Don’t get confused. Don’t get sidetracked. We come from beauty. We come from art. We come from pain. We come from love. We come from unity. We come from experience.’ “This is our legacy, and I want people to leave the theater feeling good about who they are and where we come from as Americans.” Tickets for Raisin’ Cane: A Harlem Renaissance Odyssey are $5 for students of all ages with ID, $20 for seniors 60 and over and $25 for general admission. For information about Raisin’ Cane: A Harlem Renaissance Odyssey or Mary B. Martin School of the Arts, call 423-439-TKTS (8587) or visit www.etsu.edu/martin.
Page 20 | The Loafer | November 10, 2015
A Quick Stop at the Quick Stop Dreading the long, dreary winter to come, I decided to take one of the last nice weather weekends and get out of town for a couple of days. I ventured up to the Jersey Shore – primarily to visit some new counties. (Did I ever mention that it’s my life’s dream to visit every county in the United States?) I also wanted to check out a few local points of interest as well. High on my list of things to see was the site where the 1994 Kevin Smith movie Clerks was both set and filmed. Although the humor it portrays may be a little direct (yeah, let’s say direct) for the faint of heart, I’ve been a fan of this film
since my college days. The idea is fairly simple: it’s a day in the lives of two employees of a convenience store and a video rental business, respectively. Through the course of this day, they are faced with the everyday hassles that come with such vocations, primarily annoying customers and loiterers. However there are also greater themes, such as their relationships with each other and those around them and the frustration of being stuck in dead end jobs that they take no pride in, and as such do as little actual work as is necessary to keep them. The independent film launched
Kevin Smith’s directorial career, although it was such a low-budget endeavor it’s almost comical.
Shot entirely in black and white, it features little-known actors comprised mostly of Smith’s friends, some playing multiple roles (one guy played eight), and was completed for less than thirty thousand dollars. In fact, production could only be done at night owing to the fact that the store where the film was shot was a letigimate businesses during daytime. Because of this, Smith was saddled with working full day shifts at the convenience store, since being a clerk was his actual, real-life job and working at night on his film. Now, twenty years later, the tiny Quick Stop Groceries is still in business, although the adjacent RST Video is now dark and vacant
(big surprise). They can both be found in Northern New Jersey the town of Leonardo, about fifteen miles north of Asbury Park. After snapping a few quick photos (check out that handsome devil by the door), I ventured inside the Quick Stop for a Gatorade, and true to form, found the man at the register to be fairly disinterested and devoid of personality, far more engaged in his newspaper than his duties, boring as they may be. That must be where Smith drew the inspiration for the film’s tagline: Just because they serve you doesn’t mean they like you. I guess that’s what I should have expected.
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Pets Of The Week
Ripley is a 2 year old Beagle mix male. He is neutered and up to date on all vaccinations ready for his forever home! He is a sweet and lively boy!
Bear is a 4 year old Beagle mix male. He is neutered and up to date on all vaccinations. Bear has been at the shelter for awhile and is a loving attentive boy ready for that special family! Please come and visit Ripley and Bear and their friends at The Bridge Home No Kill Animal Rescue! The Bridge Home No Kill Animal Rescue recently moved in to their new 7,300 sq foot building @ 2061 Hwy 75 Blountville, TN,37617. The Bridge Home is a non profit 501(c)(3) organization established in 2002 dedicated to the welfare of homeless or abandoned animals. They provide care and compassion for stray and unwanted cats and dogs until they can be adopted into a forever home. 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. Their current fundraiser is a rummage sale being held at the shelter through Christmas. They will have an Open House Sunday 15 November 2pm-5pm. For more information contact them: 2061 Hwy 75 Blountville, Tn, 37617 phone 423.239.5237 Hours are Mon-Fri 12pm6pm Sat 12pm-3pm and Sun 2pm-4pm. Website is www.bridgehomerescue@gmail.com or like them on Facebook: www.Facebook.com/ bridgehome?fref=ts.
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The Dave Christian Interview Will you be who you are when you get where you are going? No matter where he is in the world, local pastor David Christian is on a mission to fulfill his calling. We can all be proud of this guy because he continues to be an example of how people from our region serve as role models both locally and abroad. He’s the real deal folks. Get to know this guy. BRIAN: Dave, there ain’t no two ways about it, you are one of my most cherished friends. You grew up here and, as far as I can tell, have loved every cotton-picking moment of it! Give us your
perspective of what it was like growing up in this region. DAVE: East Tennessee is, without a doubt, one of the greatest places on earth. The region is beautiful year round, the people are friendly, and the sense of family is so strong. Having spent my early life here definitely had a tremendous impact on me and helped to develop me into the man I am today. I am so fortunate to have a great family around me and to have been raised by Godly parents that made sure I understood how important it is to help wherever you can. BRIAN: Now, we all love our region, but sometimes we find ourselves compelled to move elsewhere. Your work in the shipping industry took you other places for
employment what brought you back home? DAVE: In the mid-nineties I moved to Nashville for a few years before being moved by the transportation company that employed me to the Atlanta, GA area. It was a huge leap of faith for my wife Ginger and I to move to Nashville with our newborn daughter, leaving our family, friends, and support group here in the Tri-Cities for the unknown of a new town. Our move to Nashville and the subsequent move to Atlanta were such an opportunity for us to meet new people that would become family to us and have such a great impact in helping us realize
Movers ....
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Arts Array presents
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“5 Flights Up”
The Arts Array Film Series presented by Virginia Highlands Community College is in its 45th year. All films are presented at the Abingdon Cinemall on Mondays and Tuesdays at 4 p.m. and again at 7:30 pm.
5 Flights Up
(November 16 and 17) Forty years ago, artist Alex Carver (Morgan Freeman) bought a run-down apartment in a sketchy part of Brooklyn with his wife, schoolteacher Ruth (Diane Keaton). Today, their neighborhood is now very hip and their apartment worth a small fortune. The now- retired Ruth and Alex haven’t changed – they are still as much in love as ever. But they have let Ruth’s niece Lily (Cynthia Nixon), a real estate agent, list their property to see what the market might bear. Directed by Richard Loncraine. The Arts Array Film Series is part of the comprehensive cultural outreach program of Virginia Highlands Community College. The series is co-sponsored by the Abingdon Cinemall, the South-
west Virginia Higher Education Center, Emory& Henry College, and King University. Admission to the films is free for the faculties and students at the supporting institutions. Members of the general community may attend for $7.75. For a brochure on the series or more information, please contact Tommy Bryant at 276-739-2451 or email him at tbryant@vhcc.edu.
Natural History Museum to host East Tennessee Gem & Mineral Show The East Tennessee Gem and Mineral Show will be held FridaySunday, Nov. 13-15, at the East Tennessee State University and General Shale Natural History Museum and Visitor Center at the Gray Fossil Site. Ten gem and mineral dealers from all over the Southeast will be on hand to sell mineral specimens, jewelry, beads and jewelry supplies. The show will also include such services as jewelry repairs and stone setting, and one vendor can wire-wrap visitors’ gems. Pearl-knotting will also be available. This technique creates even spaces between pearls or other beads when making jewelry. Demonstrations will be given throughout the event, including flint-knapping, which is the pro-
cess of shaping flint or other types of rock into shapes useful for tools or jewelry. The Kingsport Gem and Mineral Society will have a table at the event, and visitors may obtain information on the club and its activities. The Natural History Museum is located 1.8 miles off Exit 13 on Interstate 26. Regular museum hours are 9 a.m.-5 p.m. TuesdaySaturday, and special Sunday hours on Nov. 15 for the Gem and Mineral Show will be noon-5 p.m. For more information, call 423439-3659 or toll free 866-202-6223, or visit the museum at www.etsu. edu/naturalhistorymuseum. For disability accommodations, call the ETSU Office of Disability Services at 423-439-8346.
Food for Fines & Pet Food for Fines
The Washington County Library is again accepting donations of food for area food banks during the month of November in lieu of collecting fines for overdue materials. The Jonesborough Library will be donating their collections to the Jonesborough Area Ministerial Association’s Food Pantry (JAMA). The Gray Library is collecting for the Gray Community Chest Food Pantry. The foods needed are assorted canned food items (fruit, vegetables, meat, etc.), dried beans, cereal, peanut butter, rice and pasta, cereals, boxed dinners. Also included are baby formula and baby food. Remember though, we cannot accept glass containers, perishable food, or out-of-date items. Both libraries are also doing a Pet Food for Fines drive. Donations will go to Good Samaritan Ministries Pet Food Pantry. We can accept canned cat/dog food, cat litter, bagged food (small bags preferred), treats, and potty- pads. No open packages please! For each qualified item donated, $1.00 in fines will be forgiven. Payment for lost or damaged library materials and processing fees are not included in the program.
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“Rhythms Of The Mountain Empire” A Ten Part Original Series About Local Music, Supported by Tri-City Communities & Adoring Fans
A Salute To The Fans ... We think at this juncture of the storytelling articles behind the creation of “Rhythms Of The Mountain Empire” that we should tip our hat to the “Fans”..! Without the week in and week out support of the local fan base the “Troubadours” of a New Age would for the most part remain silent..! Thank goodness this scenario is only a poor figment of one’s imagination... Instead we shall show devoted reverence for the local musicians and their music; the blood, sweat and tears of each performance, that ignites the “beat” in all of us; creating memorable rhythms and lyrics that will be long remembered as the “Voice” of our Time..! So in keeping with “support of local music”, we have decided that the loyal followers of the Tri-music scene should be an integral part of the equation that helps us celebrate in film the story of the many hard working and dedicated musicians and bands, that entertain each week and allow all of us to cast aside the trials and tribulations of day to day for basking in the sunlight of each wonderful musical experience..! J.r. Moore, Musician Extraordinaire, was asked about the fans and we are thrilled to quote him here: “The fans are what gives me the energy to keep on keeping on, when I feel I have no more to give...” “Without our friends and fans we would have nothing and no one to play for”..! Brad Puckett, Nashville Recording Artist, also expressed his feelings: “Fans are the lifeblood of any career. Without the fans an artist is nothing…My chance to reach out with my songs and connect for three minutes, impacting their lives is what the “gift of music” is all about..!” FILMED SEGMENTS TO BE LIVE STREAMED...! Each segment that we film be-
ginning with Woodstone & Biggie’s, we will “live stream” the performances and it will be shown literally everywhere across Tennessee in the “blink of an eye”..! Every laptop, ipad and smartphone will be able to watch “live” as the scenes unfold. In addition, we look forward to presenting a radio remote with WQUT and Jeri George for the first segment at Woodstone. We shall also have the ability to accept “Twitter” feeds as fans can interact with members of the cast supplemented by a “Fan App.”, with up to date information about the bands and the series. We shall also include pre-selected “Fan Cameo’s” and utilize several fans as “Extras” from local venues and “Audition Night” to be made part of each presentation of which there are ten in the first season. A reminder: the first “Audition Nite” for the remaining three Bands looking to participate in the series is November 19th at Woodstone. Yes, there is a distinct possibility that there will be more than one season if all goes as expected... THE TRUE “GIVE BACK” TO THE COMMUNITY SUPPORTING THOSE LESS FORTUNATE... As always the musicians unselfishly give of their time and Rhythms is no exception. Sponsors who include Budweiser, help defray production costs, but the
Written by William Camelot
product category which includes: An incredible T-shirt design by the one and only Gary Bortz, plus the recording of a CD with original music from the participating bands, recorded at Crooked Stick. All proceeds from sales will go to: “Local Homeless Vets” & “Children With Cancer”... Our promotional marketing department has decided that we will “roll out” the series by first creating with Dish several half hour “Specials”...We are in the process of discussing with them days and hours we can present the series. We prefer during the week and after 10 PM. We begin talking to selected local programming right after the holidays. We will make a formal announcement about our selection for “National Syndication” by the first of the year. Networks are always looking for entertaining and viable content in the demographic we are reaching. Considering that most of the supposed new programming on network television is pretty lame, I believe our unique approach to “Rhythms”; a show within a show with Donnie Drummond, rock drummer with Bazooka Boys & Samantha Starling, rock station DJ, leading the charge into local music, gives us a real good chance at accomplishing our goals. We will roll the dice and look to throw a SEVEN...!
rhythmsofthemountainempire.com facebook.com/rhythmsofthemountainempire williamcamelot@mymorningcoffee.tv
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What Would You Put Back In The Box? The November 4 issue of The Atlantic featured a column by Robinson Meyer that asked a very tantalizing question: “What Technology Should Be Un-Invented?” Of course, we can’t really un-invent anything, but the thought is at least interesting and worthy of consideration. Put another way, the question can be rephrased as “What item of technology would you put back in the box if you could?” or “What item of technology would we be better off without?” So, let’s see where this little parlor game might lead us. The results reported in Meyer’s column came from the second annual Silicon Valley Insider’s Poll, which we can only hope is a companion to the Silicon Valley Outsider’s Poll that could include people like me who have never set foot in Silicon Valley. In any event, a “panel of 101 executives, innovators, and thinkers” were polled on what technological items they would put back in the box or forever banish. Interestingly enough, selfie sticks and nuclear weapons gathered the most votes. Two radically different products, of course, one capable of wholesale destruction and the other merely an annoyance designed for narcissistic people who think other people might find their insignificant lives remotely interesting. But I digress. I don’t think I would place the selfie stick on the list because I find this item pretty innocuous, but would seriously consider putting nuclear weapons back in their boxes. I’m sure you are wondering what other items showed up on this list. Following is a sampling, giving us some insights into how
we feel about modern technology. I am in agreement that one item definitely in need of re-invention is “24-hour cable news.” Do we really need this much news? And why do we need this at all when we have news feeds at our disposal from our mobile devices 24/7 (see below)? And, besides, roundthe-clock cable news only serves to inflate the egos of the many news-hosting celebrities that have been created since the advent of this kind of news. True, celebrities have been a fixture of the news for some time, but there is a big difference between Walter Cronkite and Sean Hannity. And because airtime needs to be filled, we get way too much news and analysis, most of it being vacuous and nonessential. A few respondents called for the un-invention of Facebook and “the reduction of social media more generally.” While I am not
one to advocate putting Facebook back in its box, I do encourage users to think very deeply about what it means to engage in endless, and rather impersonal forms of online connectivity. Because of social media, we all suffer from the very modern malady of FOMO (Fear Of Missing Out). One respondent, Vint Cerf, a Google vice president, believes we would be better off with the elimination of telephones (the old school kind), but not smartphones. Of course, this is probably a moot point because telephones are pretty much non-essential anyway. To prove my point, I find myself using my smartphone more often at work than my desktop phone. And I never use a landline at home, although my wife does. Should the Newsfeed, that ubiquitous product of our mobile technology age, be boxed back up? The CEO of fountain.com, Aaron
Patzer, believes it should. According to his nominating statement, “The front page of every (popular) site on the Internet today is the same: Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, LinkedIn, Medium, Quora. The are endless scrolls of trivialities and shared links. These sites have simply become the newspapers— albeit customized by our interests and friends—of yesteryear.” Agree or disagree? I have very mixed feelings because I rather enjoy the concept of curated news and customized magazines. I have become depended on Flipboard, Feedly, Newsy, AppleNews, Zite, and other similar sites to get me through my morning dish of cereal, and wouldn’t want to give them up. Other items included on the uninvention wish list included cigarettes and heroin, “genetic testing for the masses,” “leaded petrol”, gunpowder, drones, and land mines. Kate Crawford, a representative of Microsoft Research, justified her choice of the land mine because this explosive device is “a fully autonomous weapon that’s been around since 1277, still killing indiscriminately around the world. But it’s far less sexy to talk about than killer robots.” So, there we have it—a compendium of things we might be better off not having. Needless to say, there are other teckie things I would like to see added to the list. For what it’s worth, here are my nominations from the Outside Silicon Valley group: GPS Devices: if we have no idea
where we are, we shouldn’t be operating a 2,000 pound motor vehicle. With the inevitability of driverless cars just over the horizon, we might not need to know where we are for very much longer. Wearable Medical Tracking Wristbands: seems to me the stress caused by worrying constantly about our heart rates, how many miles we have walked today, and other bodily functions is more hazardous than being blissfully ignorant of all this biological hoopla. If you think I’m been a little too critical, I read today about an App designed to monitor our bowel movements. Definitely TMI and back-in-the-box worthy. Smart Egg Cartons: Yes, I know the Internet of Things (IoT) is here to stay, but do we need an app to tell us if our eggs are fresh? Fish Finders: let’s give the fish a fighting chance when we stick the old worm on the hook (there’s probably an App for that) The list could go on and on, but you get the idea. At least you have an activity that can engage you and your friends for a couple of minutes when you have nothing better to do, except perhaps taking yet another self-indulgent photo with your selfie stick. See you next week with my annual Let’s Give Thanks column—that is, unless Thanksgiving gets put back in the box by all this way-too-early Christmas season madness. Come to think of it, shouldn’t we put the increasingly more insane (and inane) Black Friday nonsense back in the box?
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what an amazing plan God has for each of us as we dare to reach out and develop new friendships. BRIAN: God and your faith have been a huge part of who you are since you were a kid. Was there a pivotal moment for you that made you realize a higher calling? What was it? DAVE: It was more of a number of moments, not just one in particular. I can remember as early as the age of six or seven having such a desire to know Who created me and for what purpose. My teen years, as many of my friends could attest, were spent looking for these answers in all the wrong places but I could never deny or com-
pletely quiet the desire that God had placed within me to know His purpose and plan for my life. I am thankful for the journey that has been my life so far, it has been a ride of discovery. The greatest revelation is that God doesn’t want us all to be exactly alike – He wants us to be the most authentic “us”, filled with His passion for life and people. When He made each of us, He broke the mold. BRIAN: A lot of folks from the Tri Cities travel around the world to do missions for their church or just because they feel called to. You are one of those people and you have made many trips abroad. Tell us about a trip that stands out
to you. DAVE: There have been many trips that stand out, trips to Africa, the Pantene jungle and the Chiapas mountain region of Mexico, as well as our most recent work supporting our friends at Three Trees Ministries taking care of Haitian orphans in the Dominican Republic. As we spend time with other cultures, giving to those who have no way of giving back, it really opens our eyes to the power of obedience to God’s love and plans. I tell our church family, “When you obey God in a moment, you make Him real to those who are seeking His love.” This is so true, I remember spending days building
a church in the mountains of Mexico (think barn-like structure) and seeing the Mayan Indians who walked for three days from another village to see what this message of God’s love was all about. It was interesting to go back to these villages on later trips and see that the people were thriving and building homes to match the church building. The effort that these people make to come together in fellowship and community is always inspiring. BRIAN: There is only one way to end this interview. You and your wonderful wife Dr. Ginger Christian have a thriving church in Johnson City. Tell us about it
and how folks can get in touch, go. DAVE: We are honored to pastor at Oasis Life Church in Johnson City. You can check out our website www.oasislifechurch.com or come worship with us at 3515 Bristol Highway (we are upstairs in the old Ride Revolution building). Our vision at Oasis Life is to train leaders, teach children, and to give people an opportunity to find and use the gifts God has placed within them to make His love known to this region and to the world. It is absolutely our passion to see everyone we meet discover the great life that God has in store for them, here on earth! Thank you so much for your time.
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