Page 2 | The Loafer | September 15, 2015
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September 15, 2015 | The Loafer | Page 3
Volume 29 • Issue #41
Bristol Rhythm and Roots Reunion
Publisher Luci Tate
Editor Graphic Arts Director Don Sprinkle Office Manager Luci Tate Cover Design Bill May Advertising Dave Carter Terry Patterson Lori Howell Contributing Staff Jim Kelly Andy Ross Ken Silvers Mark Marquette Brian McManus Joshua Hicks Brian Bishop Nathan Cox 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) 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
happenings 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 15 21 22 25 26
15th Annual Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion BRRR Events at a Glance Celebrating Crocheting Kids Wildlife Photography Contest Kansas at NPAC Health & Wellness Experience Comedian Jim Florentine to Perform ETUS hosts Native American Festival Jessica Lee Wilkes at Bone Fire Smokehoue Big Stone Celtic Day Jonesborough Welcomes Storyteller Tom Lee Contra Dance with Spinning Wheel Arts Array presents “Far from the Madding Crowd” Rhythms Of The Mountain Empire
music & fun 16 28
Spotlight - Great Music & Fun Times Crossword & Sudoku
columns & reviews
14 Batteries Not Included - The Long Drive 18 Stargazer - Changing Summer Skies Bring Passion of Autumn 19 Skies This Week 20 Screen Scenes - “The Transporter Refueled” 23 The Trivial Traveler - Buffalo’s Buffalo 24 Mountain Movers - Richard Lovette Interview 27 Thoughts On Yesteryear - France, The History 29 Lock, Stock & Barrel - SAR B6 30 Kelly’s Place - I Likee Apple Music
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15th Annual Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion The Birthplace of Country Music Comes Alive - September 18-20, 2015
For many of us, our first real connection to the 1927 Bristol Sessions began with Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion. Sure, now there’s this really amazing museum that tells the story of Bristol’s music legacy and the recordings that put it on the map, but for the past fourteen years our education in the “Big Bang” has been schooled in an around the bars on State Street with our favorite festival. When it comes to an authentic live music experience, it doesn’t get much better than Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion. Set in the historic downtown of Bristol, Virginia/Tennessee, one can dance in two states along the State Street border while taking in some of the finest roots music performances on the touring circuit today—at an affordable price. With a lineup comprised of “musician’s musicians” including Steve Earle & The Dukes, Delbert McClinton, and Hot Rize ft. Red Knuckles & the Trailblazers, it’s the quality of the performances and the historic atmosphere that keep music lovers coming back year after year.
2015 Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion Line-Up Steve Earle & The Dukes Dr. Dog • Delbert McClinton Josh Ritter & The Royal City Band Hot Rize ft. Red Knuckles & The Trailblazers Rusted Root • Moon Taxi • John Anderson Mike Farris & the Roseland Rhythm Revue The Districts • Ray Wylie Hubbard • The Black Lillies Spirit Family Reunion • The Gibson Brothers The SteelDrivers • Dale Watson • Kopecky Strand of Oaks • Della Mae • Folk Soul Revival Willie Sugarcapps • Balsam Range American Aquarium • Steve Gunn • Lindi Ortega Jarekus Singleton • Samantha Fish Michael Cleveland and Flamekeeper • Lonesome River Band Dom Flemons • The Whiskey Gentry • Dust Bowl Revival • TAUK Quiet Life • The Suffers • Goodnight, Texas • Kripplekrunk Wayne Hancock • Lera Lynn • Daniel Romano Billy Strings & Don Julin • The Stray Birds • Fly Golden Eagle Desert Noises • Swear and Shake • Girls Guns and Glory Jim White vs. The Packway Handle Band • Rosie Flores M.S.G.-The Acoustic Blues • Trio Levi Lowrey • Boo Hanks Blank Range • Los Colognes • Ryan Culwell • Lance Stinson The Black Twig Pickers Ancient Cities • Kelsey Waldon David Massengill • Grayson Capps & Corky Hughes • Ian Thomas: Band of Drifters Annabelle’s Curse • Corbin Hayslett The Church Sisters • Ed Snodderly Hello Stranger ft. Dale Jett • David Massengill David Childers Margo & the Price Tags • Cale Tyson Bryan Elijah Smith & The Wild Hearts • C2 & the Brothers Reed Christopher Paul Stelling • Banditos • The Appleseed Collective Andrew Scotchie & the River Rats • Bill & the Belles • Wise Old River Todd Day Wait’s Pigpen • The Successful Failures Jeff Brown & Still Lonesome • Amythyst Kiah • NewTown Old Line Skiffle Combo • Duty Free • Suzi Ragsdale • Jeff Little Trio Symphony Rags • These Undowners • ETSU Bluegrass Pride Band ETSU Old Time Pride Band • The Corklickers Will Kimbrough • Josh Oliver • Justin Fedor • Sigean ETSU Celtic Pride Band Wayne Graham • The Hermit Kings •Sugarcane Jane Lauren Penley • Railsplitters Old Time String Band The Ransom Notes • Emily Roberts • Breaking Tradition The Empty Bottle String Band • Mountain Soul R. B. Morris • The Loose String Band • My New Favorites The Farmhouse Ghost • Ron Short & the Possum Creek Playboys The Harlow Experience • The Rose Sisters • Poor Valley Girls The Ordinary Bitters • Clay Prewitt • Chris Rose The Honey Badgers Dori Freeman & Eli West • Logan Fritz & Co. • Sam Gleaves Aaron Woody Wood • Joy Blair • The Sandy Shortridge Band For Times and Dates visit:
www.BristolRhythm.com
For many, it’s the emerging artists who get the most lip service. Bristol Rhythm is known as the festival that launches stars on the rise. This year’s crop includes emerging artists such as The Districts, The Suffers, and Lera Lynn. Festival favorites such as Folk Soul Revival and The Black Lillies also bring crowds to their feet. The festival’s mobile app for iPhone and Android is a must with a schedule this packed. One can create their own schedule and the app sends alerts so you won’t miss the shows you really want to see. Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion traditions like the annual 5k Road Race/2 Mile Fun Walk, The Chili Cook-off, and the free Children’s Day event will also be in full effect; newer events such as the Wernick Method Bluegrass Jam Camp and Youth Music Competition are also part of the festivities. Weekend Passes to Bristol Rhythm are $80 through September 17, $85 at the gate. Single Day Passes are also available for purchase at www. BristolRhythm.com
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Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion Events at a Glance: *Some events require pre-registration and separate registration/entry fee.
September 15-18
September 19
8:00 a.m. – 5k Road Race / 2 Mile Fun Walk at Anderson Park. Preregistration required. 8:30 a.m. – Chili Cook-Off set up at Cumberland Square Park. Preregistration required. 9:00 a.m. – Chili Cook-Off cooking begins September 17 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. - Moon 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. - Free ChilBound Girl Wine & Design (for dren’s Day Event at Cumberland adults) with artist Lee Ann Agee Square Park. at Believe in Bristol (36 Moore St.). 10:00 a.m. – Youth Music ComReservations $45, includes materi- petition at Birthplace of Country Music Museum. Pre-registration als. 8:00 p.m. – Radio Bristol Sessions required. Concert with The Black Lillies at Birthplace of Country Music Museum. Limited seating, tickets $25. Bluegrass Jam Camp at Birthplace of Country Music Museum Tuesday: 1:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. Wednesday – Friday: 10:00 a.m.6:00 p.m. Pre-registration required.
September 18
12:30 a.m. - Up Late at Holston River Brewing Co. with Hardy & the Hardknocks (Friday Night). Campers at Thunder Mountain Campground are free, otherwise $10 per person.
10:30 a.m. – Yoga in the Park at Anderson Park 12:00 p.m. – Chili Cook-Off Judging/Tasting 1:30 p.m. – Chili Cook-Off Winners Announced 3:45 p.m. – Rockin’ Stroll Window Contest Winners Announced at State Street Stage 12:30 a.m. – Up Late at Holston River Brewing Co. with Elliot Root (Saturday night). Campers at Thunder Mountain Campground are free, otherwise $10 per person.
September 20
9:00 a.m. - Church Breakfast at Emmanuel Episcopal Church, service begins at 10:30 a.m. 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. – Uke Jam at Cumberland Square Park Parking Lot Tent 11:00 a.m. – Radio Bristol Presents: It’s Farm & Fun Time live radio show hosted by Red Knuckles & the Trailblazers with appearances by Hot Rize, Jim Lauderdale, and The Hello Strangers at the Birthplace of Country Music Museum.
Limited seating. Tickets $25. 2:00 p.m. – Moon Bound Girl Design Kids (for kids) with artist Lee Ann Agee at Bristol Ballet (516 State St.). Reservations $35, includes materials. 2:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. – Songwriter Showcase at the Paramount Center for the Arts
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Reception Celebrates Jonesborough’s Crocheting Kids
A group of local children recently participated in the production of the internationally published book, The Creative Kids Complete Photo Guide to Crochet. Working with local author, fiber arts teacher and designer, Deb Burger, as well as with local photographer, Peter Montanti, the five children spent several months learning to crochet, testing project patterns and posing for close-up photos that enrich the text of the book. The publisher, Creative Publishing International, released the book in July, and the book is now available in retail book outlets across the globe, as well as online. The public is invited to a book launch reception from 2 to 3:30 p.m. on Sunday Sept. 20 at the Oak Hill School on Sabin Drive in Jonesborough. The children involved with the crochet project include Aisling Hagan, Olivia D’Avella, Rhett
Carver, Ashton D’Avella and Sophia Flanagan. They will be available to sign copies of the book and talk about their experiences in learning a traditional skill, while working with a photographer, at the book launch on Sept. 20. Most of the book’s 250 photographs were shot inside the Heritage Alliance offices, also known as the Duncan House, as well as on the grounds of Oak Hill School, located beside the Duncan House. The Creative Kids Complete Photo Guide to Crochet author, and Jonesborough resident, Deb Burger will also be present to discuss the crochet project and to sign copies of the book. Light refreshments will be served, and sample projects featured in the book will be on display. Copies of the book will also be available for purchase. There is no charge to attend, and a portion from books sold at the event will
be donated to further the work of the Heritage Alliance. This project was made possible through the generosity and commitment to cultural preservation of the Heritage Alliance of Northeast Tennessee and Southwest Virginia, who own and maintain the historic buildings in which the photography took place. The Heritage Alliance of Northeast Tennessee and Southwest Virginia is dedicated to the preservation of the architectural, historical, and cultural heritage of our region and to providing educational experiences related to history and heritage for a wide range of audiences. For more information, please call our office at 423.753.9580, or contact the organization via email at info@heritageall.org. Further information can also be found online at www.heritageall.org.
“A Storm is Brewing this September with A Brand New Production” LampLight Theatre’s “Voice of Truth”
A storm is brewing and the alarms are coming across the band waves! A BRAND NEW original production is coming to the LampLight Theatre stage in September! From the mouth of a teenage boy comes this message: “Warning: A storm is coming! Is anyone listening?!” Come see this inspiring tale of faith and bravery in Voice of Truth. Radio D.J., Emitte Jameson wonders if the message he wants to share through his style of music will be received. In a new school and town known for encouraging bullying and peer pressure, Emitte faces ridicule as well as the intimidating school president, Stacie Shawshank, who rules the school radio station. Meanwhile, Emitte’s newly single mom struggles to keep her
family together while a storm of pain and anger threatens to destroy her other three children, Ruthie, Zak, and Sadie. As their emotions build and twist, others are swept into the vortex, including their reclusive neighbor, Mr. Whitmore, and some trend-setting cheerleaders and football playing bullies. While everyone around him seems to be spiraling into a tempest, Emitte struggles to hear the “voice of truth”. When an actual tornado threatens the town, Emitte seizes the moment to warn his radio listeners and remind them of greater love and power. Heroes of faith, John the Baptist, Elijah, David, and Peter motivate Emitte to have courage, despite the storm raging around him. With inspiring music,
Emitte encourages others caught in a destructive torrent to listen to the gentle whisper of the Voice of Truth. Voice of Truth will be presented September 18-20 at LampLight Theatre at 140 Broad Street in Kingsport, TN. Nightly performances will be at 7:00 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. Matinees will be Saturdays at 2:00 p.m. and Sundays at 3:00 p.m. Doors will open one hour prior. Admission is a suggested donation of $10 Adults, $5 Students, and FREE for children 5 and under. For reservations and information, please contact the LampLight box office at (423) 343-1766, Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. or online at www.lamplighttheatre.com.
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Steele Creek Park Wildlife Weekend Photography Contest Announced Friends of Steele Creek Nature Center and Park (FSCNCP) will again be sponsoring an amateur photography contest and show. The event will be held in conjunction with the annual Wildlife Weekend celebration at Steele Creek Park. Amateur photographers of all ages, including children and teens, are encouraged to participate. Eligible photographs must be taken at Steele Creek Park in Bristol, Tennessee and be focused on the natural aspects of the park. Prizes will be awarded based on the general interest, creativity, and technical merits of the photographs. Professional photographers from the Bristol area will serve on the panel of judges. All entries will be displayed at the Wildlife Weekend celebration, scheduled for October 9 - 10 at Steele Creek Park.
The Wildlife Weekend Photography Contest and Show is always a popular part of Wildlife Weekend. This is a great opportunity for us to promote the beauty and diversity of the Park though photography. Most importantly, it’s an opportunity for park-goers of all ages to have fun through the creativity of photography and the wonder of nature. Wildlife Weekend at Steele Creek Park is an annual event featuring a variety of children’s activities, speakers, and interpretive walks, all relating to the natural history of the park and the region. This year’s theme “Focus on Nature Photography” should be of particular interest to photographers of all ages and experience. FSCNCP is a nonprofit, volunteer organization whose primary purposes are to assist the Nature
Center staff in educational, recreational, and research activities, to assist with the development and maintenance of park trails, gardens and facilities, and to preserve and protect the natural areas of Steele Creek Park. The deadline for submitting photographs is 4:00 pm on Friday, September 25, 2015. Rules and application forms are available at the Steele Creek Park Nature Center, the Bristol Tennessee Department of Parks and Recreation at the Slater Center on McDowell St., and Mountain Sports Ltd. on Commonwealth Avenue. Application forms may also be downloaded from the Friends website at http://www.friendsofsteelecreek. org, or may be requested by e-mail from mail@friendsofsteelecreek. org. For more information contact Robin Feierabend at 423-764-3336.
Frontier Health Post Adoption Services 2nd Annual Fall Festival Frontier Health’s Post Adoption Services will host their 2nd Annual Fall Festival from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, September 19, 2015, at Natural Tunnel Shelter No. 5 in Duffield. The Fall Festival offers a break day for children and families to share as they make memories that last a lifetime. The Natural Tunnel location features a large shelter area with picnic tables, a volleyball court, and room to run and play! There will be door prizes, games, an inflatable bounce room, and crafts for children and youth. Lunch and dessert will be provided. Youth will receive a treat bag. The event is sponsored by Planning District One Behavioral Health Services and the Frontier Health Post Adoption Services Program. Funding is provided through a Virginia Department of Social Services grant that supports services for foster and adoptive parents in Wise, Lee, and Scott counties, and the City of Norton.
Frontier Health’s Post Adoption Services Program hosts a support group the first Thursday of each month at 5:30 p.m. at Addington Hall in Duffield, Va. The support group is open to parents, professionals and anyone who works with foster or adopted children.
Participants are connected to community resources and receive training, support and information on being an effective foster or adoptive parent. For services information, visit www.frontierhealth.org/serviceguide.php.
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Kansas at NPAC Saturday, Sept. 19th
After four decades of legendary hits and sold-out shows, one of America’s greatest and most successful classic rock bands, Kansas, will perform at NPAC on Saturday, September 19th at 7:30 pm. Forty years have passed since the release of the group’s debut album, Kansas. The band still remains a highly respected and constantly in-demand group. Kansas made their way to stardom with their classic hit, “Carry On Wayward Son.” They followed with the title song “Point of Know Return” and the mega hit, “Dust in the Wind.” Throughout the 70’s and 80’s, Kansas claimed their spot on Billboard charts for more than 200 weeks and continued their popularity into the 90’s. Kansas played to sold-out arenas and stadiums throughout North America, Europe and Japan during their rise to prominence. “Carry On Wayward Son” was the second-most played track on classic rock radio in 1995 and became
the #1 most played song of 1997. With their presence on the popular video games Rock Band and Guitar Hero, and songs being featured on several television shows, Kansas has reached a whole generation of listeners. The band has produced eight gold albums, three sextuple-Platinum albums (Leftoverture, Point of Know Return, Best of), one platinum live album (Two for the Show) and a million-selling gold single, “Dust in the Wind.” Comprised of original drummer Phil Ehart, bassist/vocalist Billy Greer, keyboardist David Manion, vocalist/keyboardist Ronnie Platt, violinist/guitarist David Ragsdale, and original guitarist Richard Williams, Kansas continues to perform in front of large and enthusiastic audiences around the world. Kansas will perform at Niswonger Performing Arts Center (NPAC) in historic downtown Greeneville, TN on Saturday, Sep-
tember 19th at 7:30 pm. Tickets are $50 for orchestra level seating, $45 for mezzanine seating and $40 for balcony seats. Tickets may be purchased online at www.npacgreeneville.com, in person at the NPAC box office,
or by calling 423-638-1679. NPAC offers online seat selection with no processing or delivery fees. There is a $1.50 ticketing fee per ticket regardless of purchase method. The box office hours are Monday through Friday, 10 am
until 5 pm. The 1150 seat performing arts center is located adjacent to the campus of Greeneville High School in Greeneville, TN. For venue information, and to purchase tickets, please visit www. npacgreeneville.com.
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2015 Tri~Cities Natural Health & Wellness Experience
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It’s That Time Again!
October 3 & 4, 2015
D.P. Culp Center Ballroom East Tennessee State University Johnson City, TN
Discover Natural Options for a Healthier and Happier Life The event will showcase a variety of local, regional and national natural health and wellness practitioners and providers. It is designed to educate and inform the public on the benefits and availability of natural health and wellness options. The modalities presented at the event will include: Essential Oils, Energy Therapy, Nutritional Counseling, Emotional Release Therapy, Natural Supplements, Life Coaching, Aura Photography and Interpretations, Intuitive Counseling, Spinal Screenings, Meditations for Stress Release, Circulation Improvement, Allergy Testing, Living a More Satisfying Life, Genetic Testing, Natural Pet Care, Natural Baby/Child Care, Men’s and Women’s Natu-
ral Health, Recycling, Natural Home Improvement, Preventative Health Options and much more. Vendors will be on hand to answer questions and supply information about their products and services. Attendees may experience a variety of natural products and services provided by competent practitioners and providers... all in one convenient location. The event is sponsored by and to benefit THE NATIONAL SOCIETY OF LEADERSHIP AND SUCCESS (SIGMA ALPHA PI) Chapter of ETSU. Limited vendor applications will be accepted through Wednesday, September 23, providing space is available. Free workshops and presentations will be offered
throughout the event. Door prizes will be given away on the hour. Face painting and games will be available for the children. For additional information visit: http:// www.op-publishing.com/expo or email: expo@op-publishing.com. Exhibition hours are Saturday 10:00 am - 6:00 pm and Sunday 1:00 pm - 6:00 pm. Tickets are $4.00 in advance and $5.00 at the door (ages 15 & up) and may be purchased by visiting the event website. Students and faculty admitted free by showing current ETSU ID at the door. Contact Information: Dr. Mitzi Collins, Event Coordinator P.O. Box 6142 • Phone: 423-943-4307 Email: expo@op-publishing.com Website: www.op-publishing.com
It’s that time again. Come hungry to Fairview United Methodist Church this Saturday, September 19th (3rd Saturday each month), to have a great country breakfast of bacon, fresh ground sausage, eggs, pancakes, gravy and biscuits and
more! Cost is by donation. Located 5 miles from downtown Jonesborough going towards Fall Branch at 878 Highway 81 North. Plenty of time to get there between 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 a.m
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Comedian Jim Florentine to Perform in Kingsport Since the closure of “Side Splitters” in Knoxville earlier this year, comedy fans in East TN have had to drive to Nashville or Asheville, NC to see their favorite comedians from Television and Film. ETNComedy.com is bringing A-list comedians to Kingsport in a “rolling comedy festival” starting at 7pm on Sept 19th, 2015 at the Kingsport Renaissance Center. The first act is comedian Jim Florentine, known for hosting “That Metal Show” on VH-1 and for his recurring appearances on MTV’s “Crank Yankers,” “Opie and Anthony,” “Howard Stern,” and “Jimmy Kimmel Live.” “Ticket sales are brisk, but there are still good seats left,” says Diann Daggs, the event coordinator. Known for his irreverent comedy style, this is Mr Florentine’s first trip to Kingsport. Tickets are reserved seating and are available through ETNComedy. com or may be purchased at the event. Given Mr. Florentine’s penchant for music, he will be preceded on stage by the metal band, Asylum Suite. Fans of Mr Florentine have organized a pre-party at Sleepy Owl Brewery on Main Street, Kingsport, starting at 5:30pm. Doors open at 6:30pm, Asylum Suite starts at 7pm, and Jim Florentine goes on at 8pm. There will be a “meet and greet” with the band and Jim Florentine after the show, for autographs, pictures, and merchandise purchases. Attendees must be 18 years old to enter. Fans have also organized an after-party at Uncorked on Broad Street, Kingsport after the festivities. The ETNComedy rolling comedy festival will feature new A-list comedy in the TriCities approximately once a quarter; the next act is tentatively Robert Kelly from FX’s “Sex&Drugs&Rock&Roll” and “Louie.” Date is TBA.
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ETSU to host Native American Festival Weekend
East Tennessee State University will host the Native American Festival Weekend on Friday and Saturday, Sept. 18-19. The two-day celebration of Native American heritage will feature the Anikituhwa Warriors, arts, music and historical legends, with an emphasis on the Cherokee culture. Award-winning dancers, storytellers and artists will gather at the ETSU Amphitheatre to share knowledge and demonstrate skills. Included will be a variety of traditional dances, music, beadwork, blowgun-making, carving, basket-weaving, stick ball and more. Festivities will run from noon-7 p.m. Sept. 18 and from 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Sept. 19. In conjunction with the Native American Festival, Slocumb Galleries will host the exhibits “Owasy/Din’etah: The Self and Homeland in Indigenous America from Warhol to MAP(ing)”
and “the body and blood…” by Luzene Hill through Sept. 25. Slocumb Galleries, located adjacent to the Quad in Ball Hall, will be open during festival hours, as well as the regular hours of 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Monday-Friday, and admission is free. The Native American Festival is one of several themed weeks and weekends planned at ETSU throughout the fall semester. Upcoming themes include International Peace Week, Sept. 16-21; Homecoming and Family Weekend, Sept. 25-27; Freaky Fright Fest, Oct. 30-31; Student Government Association Fall Major Event Weekend, Nov. 6-7; and International Education Week, Nov. 14-20. Visit www.etsu.edu/weekends for more details. For more information, call 423439-6633. For disability accommodations, call the ETSU Office of Disability Services at 423-4398346.
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The Northeast Tennessee Chapter of the Rolling Thunder will perform the symbolic missing
man event including a roll call representing the absence of more than 90 thousand Prisoners of War – Missing in Action (POW-MIA) since World War I. The event is co-sponsored by the Jonesborough Board of Mayor and Aldermen, Jonesborough Veterans Affairs Committee and will conducted by the Northeast Tennessee Chapter of Rolling Thunder. The Rolling Thunder Missing Man event is free and open to the public, as the Northeast Tennessee Chapter of the Rolling Thunder travels throughout the region on Sept. 19. The Jonesborough roll call will take place at 5:30 p.m. at the Veterans Memorial Park outside the Visitors Center.
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Garage Band Jam
Professionals Engaged in Advancing Kingsport PEAK (Professionals Engaged in Advancing Kingsport), is hosting its second annual Garage Band Jam. This year’s headliner is Scott Miller & The Commonwealth. Garage Band Jam will be held on Friday, September 25th on the top floor of the Shelby Street Parking Garage at 215 Shelby Street. The event begins with a pre-concert block party on Market Street at 5:00 PM with the opening act beginning at 6:30 PM. There will be options for unique dining in the form
of several area food trucks. Beverage tents will also be available. The event is open to the public and will offer fun for all ages. Garage Band Jam tickets are available for $20 per ticket. To purchase, please visit: http://www.ypkingsport.org PEAK is the region’s largest young professional organization and its mission is to recruit, develop and retain young professionals to the Kingsport area.
Bone Fire Smokehouse presents
Jessica Lee Wilkes
Memorial Park Community Center, 510 Bert St., will offer a free speed and agility program for athletes in middle school through college who want to improve their quicknessexplosion and lateral movement. Taught by retired coach Jim Hastings, the program will offer intense interval training to improve skills. Classes will be held from 5-6 p.m. on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, mow through Dec. 23. Please register in person at MPCC. For more information, call 434-5749.
Bone Fire Smokehouse Restaurant in Abingdon, Virginia, September 20, 2015 at 6 p.m. The Bone Fire Smokehouse is proud to be hosting a free show by the talented Jessica Lee Wilkes. On September 20, 2015 at 6:00 p.m. the Bone Fire Smokehouse invites you to join them and Jessica for a night of music and fun. Jessica Lee Wilkes will scorch you with the fire of a fearless femme fatale. Hearkening back to 1950s rock ‘n roll and rhythm and blues, Wilkes injects these forms with a raw vigor that shakes the dust off a classic sound. Jessica’s new album, Lone Wolf, finds Jessica belting through heavy grooving numbers featuring an accomplished
studio band: Jason Smay (JD McPherson) on drums, Eddie Angel (Los Straitjackets) on guitar, Kellie Everett (The Hooten Hallers) on saxophone, and Jessica on electric bass. Join us for a great show and some terrific barbeque on an evening that is guaranteed to be a good time. The Bone Fire Smokehouse is located in the Hardware building at 260 Main Street in historic Abingdon, Virginia. As always, never a cover charge at the Bone Fire Smokehouse! If you have any questions please contact the Bone Fire Smokehouse at (276) 623-0037 or email doug@bonefirebrands.com.
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Hook & Ladder Tennessee Moonshine: First Distillery Location Opens in Downtown Kingsport
Hook & Ladder Tennessee Moonshine has made it’s home in downtown Kingsport, TN. Hook & Ladder Distillery, nestled between Church Circle and Center Street, is the realization of a lifetime’s worth of hard work, dedication, and a stout drink or two. Hook & Ladder was opened by a father son duo. Drew Draper, owner and operator of Hook & Ladder stumbled upon his passion for making moonshine at age 17. He waited several years, until the making of moonshine became legal then decided it was the perfect time to embark on a business venture with his father. Kenneth Draper, Drew’s father is a decorated Senior Captain
for Kingsport Fire Station One with twentysix years of service under his belt. Together they established Hook & Ladder Tennessee Moonshine; a name intended to honor firefighters all across the country. The moonshine is only part of the experience. Their downtown distillery has exposed brick walls adorned with firefighting memorabilia to honor those who have served. If you find your way to the distillery downtown you will find an old, thumperstyle still, which father and son use proudly to produce a high proof moonshine with quality mash and a superior taste. With new flavors coming out each month, there is surely a shine for everybody. “This month we launched our newest flavor, Cinnaburn. It is the perfect flavor to roll into fall,” said Drew Draper, owner and operator. Offering free samples to visitors, as well as a wide range of merchandise, Hook and Ladder Distillery hopes the smooth burn of its white lightning will be felt far and wide for years to come. With plans to grow their brand nationally, this will not be the last you hear of Hook & Ladder. For more information visit, www.hookladdershine.com. Direct questions to Drew Draper, ddraper01@ hotmail.com or423.555.1212.
Carter Famiy Fold presents
Tune Town Old Time String Band Saturday, September 19th, 2015, at 7:30 p.m., the Carter Family Fold in Hiltons, Virginia, will present a concert by the Tune Town Old Time String Band with Dr. Mark Handy. Admission to the concert is $10 for adults, children 6 to 11 $1, under age 6 free. The Tune Town Old Time Band is a North Carolina based old time band that has been making quite a name for themselves in old time music circles for the past several years. Tune Town has six musicians in the group. The band features two guitars, two fiddles, and the clawhammer banjo. Dr. Mark Handy will be playing banjo and helping out on vocals. When he’s not playing old time, Dr. Handy practices family medicine in Abingdon, Virginia. Fans of groups like the Mountain Park Old Time Band will love Tune Town. Be sure to bring your dancing shoes, and be ready for a night of down home fun. With twin fiddles, you can be sure there will be lots of tunes to keep the dancers happy and on the floor. Nothing gets you out of your seat and
on the dance floor faster than a rousing old time band. Don’t miss the Tune Town Old Time Band at the Carter Family Fold! This show will mark Tune Town’s third performance at the Fold, and we can’t wait to have them back! For more information on the group, check them out on Face Book. Carter Family Memorial Music Center, Incorporated, is a nonprofit, rural arts organization established to preserve traditional, acoustic, mountain music. For further information on the center, go to http://www. carterfamilyfold.org. Carter Music Center is part of the Crooked Road: Virginia’s Heritage Music Trail. You can visit the Crooked Road Music Trail site at http://thecrookedroad.org. Partial funding for programs at the center is provided by the Virginia Commission for the Arts and the National Endowment for the Arts. For recorded information on shows coming up at the Fold, call 276-386-6054. To speak to a Fold staff member, call 276-594-0676.
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Page 14 | The Loafer | September 15, 2015
The Long Drive
“I’m too nice a person” is what I kept telling myself as the person in the passenger seat of my car went into details about their love life. Usually I’m happy to listen to people. I have a booth in my yard that says “THE DOCTOR IS IN” because I took the works of Charles M. Schulz to heart. This was the
exception. It had been an hour into the two hour car ride down to Gatlinburg, and they had not shut up once. A cabin get away with some of the members of a charity group I do work with is why the drive was happening. All for a retreat/ vacation/brainstorming thing. I was looking forward to the drive
down--alone--singing along loudly to whatever struck my fancy. However the universe had other plans for me. At the final trip detail meeting, when car pool arguments were being made, I was asked “Do you have room for me?” All the other cars were full, I was the only one with a free car, and I sensed I may not be getting out of this one. My brain began to go into overdrive, desperate for a reason to not have someone else mess with my precious sing-a-long time. Before I could say “Oh, I’ve got the lockgouts,” I found myself agreeing to
have a hop on for the drive down. I should have known I was going to get hop ons. Normally when I have people in my car I try to play nice background music, usually some Jazz that most people wont find disagreeable. Upon picking up X, loading their crap into my car, and hitting the road, the conversations began. “So...I’ve started seeing someone” was the start of it all. The sound of Charlie Parker was increasingly drowned out by details of a love life I didn’t want to know. I’m not adverse to listening to these types of things, but this wasn’t the type of late night meaningful conversation you’d want. No, this was like watching an episode of “The Real Housewives of Erwin.” The more and more X went on with sordid details that I didn’t want to know, or their paranoid rants about how everyone stabs them in the back, the more I began to turn Charlie Parker up. The louder Bird got, the louder X became. I moved up to something stronger and began to try to block X with the band X, but not even John Doe could drown out the sounds of the “Fifty Shade-ness” of new love. I began to wonder what sin I could
have committed to deserve this punishment. I heard more about X’s intimate life than I could have ever wanted to. When the phrase “The swing fell from the ceiling” was said, I pondered if getting to Gatlinburg was really worth it. “Drop X off in the Dollywood parking lot, then I just drive straight to Vegas?” was the first thought I had. “I hold up at a pancake house and keep eating till I go into a coma? Yeah...” that was another thought. The more I thought about ways to dispose of X, the quicker the time passed. Right when my brain began to run Hitchcock movie scenarios over and over, my phone said “Turn left in 500 feet.” We made it to the cabin and were greeted by all the others. The trip down, the lack of my music, and the constant talking meant I was well over the peak of my social quota for the day. After making social niceties with all, I retreated to my room to unpack, hide away from people, and stream TCM on my iPad (Thank you, science!). I recharged, manage to avoid X for most of the getaway, and conned someone else into giving them a ride back. See you next week.
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September 15, 2015 | The Loafer | Page 15
Big Stone Celtic Day Continues to Grow for the Ninth Year The Ninth Annual Big Stone Celtic Day in Big Stone Gap Virginia is fast approaching. Starting with a 7:00 pm concert on Sept. 25 and events held in downtown Big Stone Gap all day Sept. 26, the festival celebrates the Celtic roots of our region. The Pro-Art Association sponsored free Friday night concert at the MECC Goodloe Center features the music of Alan Reid and Rob van Sante, plus The Ocean Band. Previously of the Scottish supergroup Battlefield Band, Alan and Rob have performed all over the world. Alan is a musician on keyboards and guitar as well as a very accomplished songwriter. Rob is a specialist in the songs of his adopted home in Northumberland and together they are unparalleled in engaging fans and strangers alike. The Ocean Celtic Quartet put a unique spin on traditional music along with original compositions.
They combine English, Scottish, Irish and French music on a bedrock of solid academic research, while they are also engaging and entertaining. Saturday morning events kick off with the 26-mile Tour de Crackers Neck bike race, and a 5K run. For times and registration information, contact Chris Akens at thecyclingchris@gmail.com . New for 2015 is the 5K9 Walk. Deck out your best canine buddy in halter and leash and bring them to the Greenbelt at Bullitt Park for their very own 5K9 event, sponsored by Powell Valley Animal Hospital. Online registration will be available soon. Please watch our Facebook page for more information. The Celtic Parade line-up begins at 11:00 am at the Big Stone Gap Fire Department on Shawnee Avenue, with parade kick off at 11:15 am, lead off by the Appalachian Highlanders Pipes and Drums. All
comers are welcome and encouraged to participate in the parade! The Celtic Kitchen opens at 11:30 am, offering tasting plates of foods from various Celtic regions. Each plate is $5.00. This year’s offerings include
the return of the ever popular Sheepdog Demonstrations and Highland Games in Bullitt Park. Throughout the day concerts, exhibitions and workshops will take place at Miners Park, the Farmers Market, H.W. Meador Coal Museum, the Trail of the Lonesome Pine Main Stage, Big Stone Gap Presbyterian Church, Lonesome Pine Library, The Fox House and Tales of the Lonesome Pine Bookstore. Artists appearing at the venues in downtown Big Stone Gap on Saturday include: The Appalachian Highlanders Pipes and Drums, Ron Short, Sigean, Thistle Dew, Sandra Parker and Joseph Sobol View the full schedule of events at: http://www.bigstoneceltic.com and http://www.facebook.com/ BigStoneCelticDay Contact: Jack Beck 276-523-5097, jbeck69087@aol.com
Page 16 | The Loafer | September 15, 2015
- TUESDAY - Sept. 15th JASON LLOYD & FRIENDS
at Biggies Clam Bar OTHERWISE at Capone’s 7pm
GRAYSON ROGERS
at Acoustic Coffeehouse 8pm
- WEDNESDAY - Sept. 16th MICHAEL DANTE APRILE
at The Willow Tree Coffeehouse & Music Room 7pm
MY BROTHER THE BEAR at O’Mainnin’s Pub 9pm
COUNTRY HAMMER at Bone Fire Smokehouse
THE HONEY CHASERS at The Down Home 8pm
LUCCA SORIA LAURA THURSTON
at Acoustic Coffeehouse 8pm
- THURSDAY - Sept. 17th JAZZ at Wellington’s - Carnegie Hotel THE POISONOUS SNAKE, HAAL, & THE BONES MARY at Capone’s
THE HONEY CHASERS at Down Home 8pm
CAROLINABOUND
at The Willow Tree Coffeehouse & Music Room 7pm
RHYTHM
at Holston River Brewing Company 8pm
THE BLACK LILLIES
at Birthplace of Country Music Museum 8pm LIVE MUSIC at Bone Fire Smokehouse
JOE CAT
at The Acoustic Coffeehouse 8pm
- FRIDAY - Sept. 18th LOST FIDDLE STRING BAND THE HART STRINGS
at Acoustic Coffeehouse 8pm
BRISTOL RHYTHM & ROOTS Downtown Bristol — State Street
HARDY & THE HARDKNOCKS
at Holston River Brewing Co. 12:30am SIGEAN at Sleepy Owl Brewery 9pm
SOUTHERN COUNTRYMEN BAND (Country) at The Outdoorsman STEVE DUNFEE at Shirley’s Restaurant 5pm
THE APPLESEED COLLECTIVE at State Line Bar & Grill 10pm
HAYDEN GARBER
at Jiggy Ray’s Pizzeria 7pm
JAKE & THE COMET CONDUCTORS w/ SCRATCH RIVER TELEGRAPH COMPANY & HARPER & THE BEARS at Capone’s 8pm
BRADLEY CARTER & MAX GROSS WEIGHT at Bone Fire Smokehouse
SARAH MCQUAID
at Classic Car Cruz - Tazewell VA 7pm
SOUTHERN COUNTRYMEN BAND (Country) at Buffalo Ruritan Club 7pm
SOUTHERN SOUND (Classic Country & Southern Rock) at Traders Village 10am & Kgt. Eagles 8pm UNCLE MICK KYTE
at Jiggy Ray’s Pizzaria 7pm
KILLING ABRAHAM at Capone’s 8pm
NATIVE AMERICAN FESTIVAL at ETSU Amphitheater
TUNE TOWN OLD TIME at Carter Family Fold
THE APPLESEED COLLECTIVE at Machiavelli’s 3pm
THE DUO TONES
LANCE STINSON at Machiavelli’s 7pm ELLIOT ROOT
JERRY PIERCE & THE NIGHTLIFE BAND
THOMAS TAYLOR & THE HIGHRIZE BAND
at Music on the Square - Jonesboro 7pm at Woodstone Deli
at JC Senior Center 7pm
NATIVE AMERICAN FESTIVAL at ETSU Amphitheater THE FUGITIVES
at Holston River Brewing Co. 12:30am at Country Club Bar & Grill
THE SUCCESSFULL FAILURES at O’Mainnin’s Pub & Grill 6pm
BLUESMAN & THE BLUES ESSENTIALS
A FLEETING FAREWELL / TIDES OF TREASON / BOUND BY THE CROWN at The Mecca Lounge 8pm BILLY CRAWFORD BAND
BIG DADDY LOVE
TOKALOS / SHIBBY PICTURES
at Country Club Bar & Grill at Our House 8pm
at Founders after Five
SOUTHERN SOUND
at Bone Fire Smokehouse
at Acoustic Coffeehouse 8pm
JUKEBOX BOYS
- SUNDAY - Sept. 20th IVY ROAD at Marker “2” Grill GOD OF NOTHING
LIVE MUSIC
JESSEE LEE WILKES
(Classic Country & Southern Rock) at Elizabethton Elks 8:30pm at Marker “2” Grill 7pm at Sonny’s Marina & Cafe 7pm
- SATURDAY - Sept. 19th LIVE MUSIC at Sonny’s Marina & Cafe 7pm KANSAS at NPAC 7:30pm
at The Hideaway 7pm
at Bone Fire Smokehouse LANCE STINSON at Machiavelli’s 2pm
MAGPIE THIEF / RENEE IS A ZOMBIE at Acoustic Coffeehouse 8pm
at Marker “2” Grill 7pm
- MONDAY - Sept. 21st AVATAR w/ GEMINI SYNDROME & HUNTRESS
at Downtown Bristol - State St.
CLAY PARKER / JODI JAMES
ALI RANDOLPH
BRISTOL RHYTHM & ROOTS KIDS OUR AGE
at Heritage Festival - Cedar Bluff 12:30pm
at Capone’s 7pm
at Acoustic Coffeehouse 7pm BLUEGRASS JAM at Hardee’s (BC)
KARAOKE TUESDAY
KaraokeAt 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 Karaoke w/ Absolute Entertainment at Busted Still Brewery ***********************
THURSDAY
Karaoke At Numan’s - JCTN Karaoke w/ Absolute Entertainment at Electric Cowboy - 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/ Absolute Entertaiment at Rainbow Asian Cuisine - JCTN 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 ***********************
SUNDAY
Karaoke w/ Absolute Entertainment at Mellow Mushroom - JC TN 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 Buffalo Ruritan 200 Willowbrook Dr. Bluff City 423/391-7382 Busted Still Brewery 185 Homeplace Dr. Gate City VA 276/ 210-6038 Capone’s 227 E Main St Johnson City 423/928-2295 Carter Family Fold 3449 A. P. Carter Hwy Hiltons Va 276/594-0676
Country Club Bar & Grill 3080 W State St Bristol 423/844-0400
David Thompson’s Produce 251 Highway 107 Jonesborough 423/913-8123 Down Home 300 W. Main St. Johnson City 423/929-9822 Elizabethton Elks 1000 N. Sycamore St Elizabethton 423/ 543-2341 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
Jiggy Ray’s 610 E. Elk Ave Elizabethton 423/ 518-1500 Machiavelli’s 8 5th St. Bristol 423/ 573-9955
Marker “2’ Grill at Lakeview Marina 474 Lakeside Dock, Kingsport 423/323-4665 The Mecca Lounge 117 Spring St Johnson City 423/928-9360 O’Mainnin’s Pub 712 State St Bristol 423/844-0049 Our House Restaurant 4903 N. Roan St. Johnson City 423/ 282-1555 The Outdoorsman 4535 Highway 11W Kingsport Quaker Steak & Lube 629 State St Bristol VA 276/644-9647 Shirley’s Restaurant 3266 Highway 321 Hampton 423/ 768-2092 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 Woodstone Deli 3500 Fort Henry Dr Kingsport 423/245-5424
September 15, 2015 | The Loafer | Page 17
Page 18 | The Loafer | September 15, 2015
Changing Summer Skies Bring Passion of Autumn
the Eagle, is again a cross-like pattern of stars that fly beside the ribbon of Milky Way starlight. After midnight, the large square of four equally bright stars is high above the east, the Great Square of Pegasus. Below the flying horse is the faint but large constellation Pisces the Fishes. And flowing off the northern “leg” of Pegasus is actually paired up stars of Andromeda the famous chained maiden. There is also a real drama of a royalty going on in the northeastern night sky. The queen Cassiopeia and husband Cephus are distraught over daughter Andromeda being captured and ravaged by a sea monster. That monster, Cetus, is lurking along the southern horizon and today is thought of as
ing in the southeast at 3 am these September nights. All the constellations are easier to see when there is no moonlight to drown out the fainter stars. And light pollution is a big factor as to how well you’ll see the notso-bright stars of constellations like Pegasus, Andromeda and Pisces. What modern stargazers lose sight of—literally—is how dark the night skies were in ancient times when the constellations rising and setting actually provided entertainment to stargazing. Most of our backyards have changed in sky darkness as urban sprawl reaches the suburbs as new parking lots, shopping centers and businesses bring with them security lights illuminating the sky.
a whale. Coming to the chained maiden’s rescue is the swashbuckling Perseus, fresh from his decapitating battle with the snake, dreadlocked Medusa. Rising behind the Greek mythological drama after 1 am is the familiar star pattern of Taurus the Bull, its red “eye” of Aldebaran having another brighter yellow “star” near it—the planet Jupiter. The largest planet will take center stage in the evening winter skies. And right behind Taurus is the mighty Orion the Hunter with its unmistakable pattern of stars ris-
Maybe 10 years ago from your driveway you could see the Milky Way overhead. Today you might have to struggle to see it at all. So where hundreds of years ago more people were in tune to the changing of the starry sky from Summer to Autumn constellations, the celestial switch can barely be noticed by most people. But no matter, a stargazer in the 21st Century takes what he or she can get when the night skies are clear and the stars come out to play. This Autumn, join in on the fun.
No other time for stargazing is more exciting than the transition from the Summer to the Autumn constellations of stars in the night sky. The night show of stars and the stories they tell are flowing like the October tales at the famous Jonesborough storytelling festival in Tennessee’s oldest town. The mythology of the Greek, Roman and a few other cultures like Native Americans are etched in starry dotto-dots across the night sky. And a forgotten culture of ancient stargazers is revealed in the predominantly Arabic-based names of the brightest individual stars. One must take their imagination with them as they stand under a clear, night: a star map and a red flashlight in hand to identify the stars and their quite arbitrary clumping into patterns we call constellations. The change in the coming weeks from hot summer nights to cool Autumn evenings is a welcome site to stargazers. With some of the clearest and steady atmospheric conditions than any other time of the year, take advantage of September and October stargazing for some starlight treats. There are two heroes of mythic proportions in the night sky—Hercules setting in the west and Perseus rising in the east. The flying horse of Pegasus is soaring in the east while chasing the lovely swan of Cygnus, flapping down the river of stars called the Milky Way. Yes, there is still plenty of time to see the Milky Way as it is directly overhead as darkness sets in at 8 pm. But look quickly as the southern galactic center sets in Sagittarius.
And high overhead is the asterism of the Summer Triangle. Deneb, Vega and Altair are soon to be replaced by the “Winter Triangle” made up by the equally brilliant stars of Sirius, Procyon and Betelgeuse. Deneb is the “tail” of the swan, and other bright stars spread the bird’s outstretched arms and its neck forward, creating a starry pattern known as the Northern Cross. Brilliant Vega is in the middle, its constellation of four bright stars making a lopsided rectangle that is called Lyra after the ancient, guitarlike lyre. Then another bird, Aquila
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September 15, 2015 | The Loafer | Page 19
Celestial events in the skies for the week of Sept. 15th - Sept. 21st, 2015 as compiled for The Loafer by Mark D. Marquette. The Crescent Moon makes a quick visit to the evening skies, and after it sets the darkness allows the Milky Way to be seen spanning from north to south. Saturday is International Observe the Moon Night, and though no local festivities are planned, you can join in by putting your binoculars or telescope on our nearest celestial neighbor. A week from this Sunday (Sept. 27) will be a total eclipse of the Moon, being billed as a “Blood Moon, Super Moon Eclipse.” Next week’s Stargazer will bring you the details.
Tues. Sept. 15
In the north the queen of the night, Cassiopeia, form a giant “W” of stars, while the Big Dipper is scrapping the northeast horizon. In the south skies are featured constellations Sagittarius and Scorpius in the direction of the center of our Galaxy.
Wed. Sept. 16
On this 1996 date in space history, NASA launched Space Shuttle Atlantis on a mission to the Russian space station MIR, dropping off John Blaha for a four month stay and bringing back Shannon Lucid after a then American record 188 days in space.
Thurs. Sept. 17
Happy 85th birthday to moonwalker Edgar Mitchell, the 6th man to touch the alien surface. He came back from his Apollo 14 experience in February 1971 with fellow moonwalker Alan Shepard, deceased, and orbiting Stu Roosa, deceased. Mitchell is the founder of the Institute of Noetic Sciences, which for four decades has studied the paranormal. Mitchell conducted ESP experiments on the Moon without NASA’s knowledge, and has campaigned his belief that UFOs and aliens are real.
Fri. Sept. 18
On this 1990 date in space history NASA released a “family portrait” of our Solar System taken from Voyager 1 at a distance of four billion miles from the Sun. Taken after years of urging by the “people’s astronomer” Carl Sagan,
planetary science and exploration. Everyone on Earth is invited to join the celebration uniting on one day each year to look at and learn about the Moon together.
Sun. Sept. 20
First Quarter Moon is today, or 7 days old as amateur astronomers like to call it. It will set at about 12:30 am (on Monday), but it’s not so bright as to drown out the Milky Way. If you’re in the mountains, lake or countryside away the photo captured six of the then from city light pollution, enjoy nine planets (Mercury and Mars the starry river of stars that spans were too close to the Sun, and from north to south. Pluto was too faint. In the mosaic Mon. Sept. 21 of 60 images, the Earth, in Sagan’s This is the hardest time to see words, looked like a “pale, blue the familiar Big Dipper as it dredgdot,” a humbling experience for es along the northeast horizon all mankind. seemingly plowing up the landSat. Sept. 19 scape. That’s why in England, this International Observe the familiar 7-star asterism is called Moon Night (InOMN) is an an- “The Plough.” One of handful of nual worldwide public event that “circumpolar” constellations that encourages observation, appre- never set, the Big Dipper is just ciation, and understanding of our part of the larger constellation Moon and its connection to NASA Ursa Major, the Big Bear.
Page 20 | The Loafer | September 15, 2015
IN THEATRES NOW Box Office Top 10
In Theaters Now
War Room (2015)
A seemingly perfect family look to fix their problems with the help of Miss Clara, an older, wiser woman.
“The Transporter Refueled”
The latest film in “The Transporter” series is on the big screen and it does not feature Jason Statham! Statham, who has starred in the film series since 2002, is replaced in the new effort, “The Transporter Refueled” by Ed Skrein in the role of Frank Martin, aka the Transporter. The plot of the film series involves a courier for hire who transports packages for various clients. The Transporter has rules however. The rules the courier requires are once the deal is made, it’s final, no names, and never to open the package. Have the rules been kept over the course of 4 films? The answer is a hardy no. The new film is described as a prequel, and is planned as a trilogy. The plot of the new film begins in 1995, where we are introduced to the villains of the storyline. The film then flashes 15 years forward and we first see new star Skrein. The villains of the plot are involved in human trafficking, and Frank becomes involved with Anna (Loan Chabanol), who happens to have been a victim of the human trafficking. Anna has recruited three other accomplices, who were also victims, to help her bring down the men responsible for the trafficking. Anna has hired Frank to deliver a package, and this is when the film really kicks into gear. The story also features Ray Stevenson (“Rome”) as Frank Martin, Sr., who after being kidnapped by the bad guys, comes to the aid of his son and his accomplices. The film features action on the par with any Bond or “Fast and Furious” film, and the stunts are quite spectacular if often unbelievable. But, hey, this is a film we see for stunts, so who really cares if they are not realistic? The actors are all fine in their roles, and
Straight Outta Compton (2015)
The group NWA emerges from the mean streets of Compton in Los Angeles, California, in the mid-1980s and revolutionizes Hip Hop culture with their music and tales about life in the hood.
No Escape (2015)
In their new overseas home, an American family soon finds themselves caught in the middle of a coup, and they frantically look for a safe escape in an environment where foreigners are being immediately executed.
Sinister 2 (2015)
A young mother and her twin sons move into a rural house that’s marked for death.
Un gallo con muchos A Walk in the Woods (2015) huevos (2015) After spending two decades in England, Bill Bryson returns to the U.S., where he decides the best way to connect with his homeland is to hike the Appalachian Trail with one of his oldest friends.
Toto, a young chick born the run of the litter, rises to the occasion when a rancher threatens his home and his family.
The Transporter Refueled (2015)
In the early 1960s, CIA agent Napoleon Solo and KGB operative Illya Kuryakin participate in a joint mission against a mysterious criminal organization, which is working to proliferate nuclear weapons.
In the south of France, former special-ops mercenary Frank Martin enters into a game of chess with a femme-fatale and her three sidekicks who are looking for revenge against a sinister Russian kingpin.
Mission: Impossible Rogue Nation (2015)
Ethan and team take on their most impossible mission yet, eradicating the Syndicate - an International rogue organization as highly skilled as they are, committed to destroying the IMF.
The Man from U.N.C.L.E. (2015)
Ant-Man (2015)
Armed with a super-suit with the astonishing ability to shrink in scale but increase in strength, cat burglar Scott Lang must embrace his inner hero and help his mentor, Dr. Hank Pym, plan and pull off a heist that will save the world.
Source: IMDb.com • (09/12/2015)
Skrein, who is also a English rapper, has experience on “Game of Thrones”, so you know he is ready for all the action the film presents. Skrein is a fine replacement for Statham, but it’s a shame the two actors could not have at least appeared in one scene in the film, but I suppose with this being a prequel, that would never have worked. While this French action
thriller doesn’t exactly break any new ground in the world of this genre of film, it certainly is fun to watch. For a bit of “B” movie thrills, be sure to check out “The Transporter Refueled” as an end of summer cinema treat. (PG-13) B
Rated: PG-13
B
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Jonesborough Welcomes Storyteller Tom Lee
The next teller in residence for the International Storytelling Center’s renowned Storytelling Live! series will be folk tale and fairy story aficionado Tom Lee. An American who lived in England for many years, Lee got his storytelling education doing oneman shows in small pub theaters— a British tradition. During the day, he spent long hours researching stories in the British Museum. “I would look up primary sources, and the sources of sources, and letters and manuscripts,” he says. “I got really into the history of these stories and where they came from.” What Lee didn’t realize until his return seven or eight years later was that a storytelling renaissance had also kicked off back in the states. “By the time I came back to America, I was already pledged as a storyteller,” he says. The unlikely profession he had “discovered” thousands of miles from home actually existed—and he thrived at it. Over time Lee became a story evangelist, telling anyone who would listen about what traditional stories have to offer the modern world. “What I love about these stories is that the characters may be in extremely unrealistic settings, but the way they respond to them is utterly real,” he says. “If you’re married and your husband turns into a bear and runs away, you have to go and find
him. That’s unlikely to happen to the average American, but we still face all kinds of struggles that parallel that behavior.” During his residency in Jonesborough, Lee will offer daily concerts in Jonesborough Tuesday through Saturday, September 22 – 26, in ISC’s Mary B. Martin Sto-
Photo credit: Harold Shapiro rytelling Hall. All matinees begin at 2:00 p.m., and all ticket holders will save 10 percent on same-day dining at The Dining Room, Jonesborough General Store and Eatery, or Main Street Café. In addition to his daily performances, Lee will lead a special
September 15, 2015 | The Loafer | Page 21
workshop, “Traditional Stories in the 21st Century Classroom,” on Saturday, September 26, from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. He’ll talk about the intersection of traditional stories and modern classrooms, as well as how to choose relevant stories for different age groups. “A small step towards storytelling with kids is almost instantly rewarding,” he observes. “You see its power and potential almost as soon as you do it.” Lee’s workshop will be free for teachers through the generosity of the Niswonger Foundation. Reserve your spot by calling the International Storytelling Center at (423) 913-1276. Tickets for all matinee performances are just $12 for adults and $11 for seniors, students, and children under 18. Walk-in seating is often available, but advance reservations are recommended since tickets are first come, first served. The International Storytelling Center’s Storytelling Live! series
will bring a new performer to Jonesborough each week through the end of October. Information about this season’s performers, as well as a detailed schedule, is available at www.storytellingcenter.net. Storytelling Live! is supported by program sponsors CrestPoint Health and Eastman Credit Union, and media sponsors News 5-WCYB, FOX Tri-Cities, Tri-Cities CW, Johnson City Press, Kingsport Times-News, Herald & Tribune, Cumulus Media and Foster Signs. Additional funding comes from the National Endowment for the Arts, the Tennessee Arts Commission, the Niswonger Foundation, and the Arts Fund of East Tennessee 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.
Page 22 | The Loafer | September 15, 2015
Netherland Inn to host Heritage Quilt Show Sept. 19
C’mon out to the Heritage Quilt Show to be held at the old Netherland Inn from 10 AM to 4 PM, on Sat., Sept. 19, 2015! This year’s event will include heritage quilts (50 years old or more) and antique clothing from the Netherland family. Antique appraisals ($5 per item) will be held from 11 AM to 2 PM for silver, local pottery, furniture and quilts. A Flea Market will include indoor and outdoor furniture, household items, new and gently used items. Lunch will be available from 11 AM to 2 PM and will consist of Soup Beans, Cornbread, Hot dogs, Dessert and Drink for $5. Admission to the event is $5. If you would like to share your Heritage Quilt to be displayed at the Inn, give us a call at 423.245.5449 or 423.246.3263. The Netherland Inn and Museum is located at 2144 Netherland Inn Rd., Kingsport, TN. For additional upcoming events, please visit our Regional Calendar.
Contra Dance in Jonesborough with Spinning Wheel! The Historic Jonesborough Dance Society will hold a contra dance on Saturday September 19, 2015. The event will be held at the Jonesborough Visitors Center at 7:00pm featuring the Asheville band “Spinning Wheel” with Christi Bothwell Henn calling the dance. Admission is $7, $5 for HJDS members and $5 for full time students. A class for newcomer contra dances will run from 7:00-
the couples having progressed one position up or down the set. All dances are taught by the caller. No partner is necessary and you are encouraged to dance with as many different people as possible. “We are starting to get more and more students from Milligan, ETSU and King University” adds David Wiley, President of the Historic Jonesborough Dance Society. “It’s only $5.00 for students and a
7:30pm. The dance will go from 7:30-10:30pm with a Klondike Bar break at 9:00pm. Spinning Wheel unites two friends who have played for contra dances in the area for many years. The band consists Karen Gaughan on keyboard and Nic Coker on fiddle. Coker also plays for Boom Chuck which performed at the most recent Jonesborough contra dance. Christi Henn is a local caller from Johnson City who graduated from Milligan and started contra dancing in Jonesborough many years ago. Contra dance is a form of American folk dance in which the dancers form a set of two parallel lines that run the length of the hall. Each dance consists of a sequence of moves and steps that ends with
lot of fun”. Many of the basic moves resemble square dancing—swings, allemandes, do-si-dos—but contra dancing are more a sort of amusement park ride that the dancers make for themselves. A square dance set is comprised of only four couples, whereas the length of the hall only limits the number of couples in a contra dance set. To join a set, only a partner and soft-soled shoes are necessary. All that is left is to have fun dancing. You are encouraged to dress comfortably and stay hydrated with lots of water. For more information on Saturday’s dance or any upcoming events, please call David Wiley at 423-534-8879 or visit www. historicjonesboroughdancesociety.org. or Historic Jonesborough Dance Society on FACEBOOK.
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Buffalo’s Buffalo
Buffalo, New York might be one of the most overlooked and underappreciated large cities in the country. Its strategic location where Lake Erie tapers to the Niagara River did make it the ideal location for the western terminus of the Erie Canal in 1821, leading to an economic boom in shipping and freight. The twentieth century, however, was not so kind to the city. Urban decay, expedited by the decline of heavy industry is typical of larger rust belt cities, but Buffalo has the added distinction of having some of the snowiest, most miserable winters in the northeast. Add to that the fact that President McKinley was assassinated there in 1901, and you can imagine why Buffalo’s tourism industry has been challenged, to put it mildly. One amenity the city has going for it though is its fairly decent, mild summers. This is good for recreation along the city’s expansive waterfront. Remember, it’s right there on Lake Erie, and the Erie Canal, now seen as far too narrow for heavy shipping, is primarily used for recreational boating. And where do all the city’s pleasure craft tie up, you ask? It turns out that Buffalo has a large, really nice marina. It’s more than that though, the Erie Basin Marina can be viewed as more of a district, with gardens, parks, restaurants, and even a tower offering panoramic vistas of both the city and the lake, presumably optimized when both aren’t frozen over. Plus, it was designed in the shape of an actual buffalo! Now, how cool is that?
It is a bit perplexing though. As with the name of the city and its hapless football team, among other associations, the city is permanently tied to the large land mammal better known for roaming the prairies, you know, before they were hunted to near extinction. In fact, there is no clear evidence that the buffalo ever existed in western New York. The truth is, nobody really knows why the city is named what it is. Originally, Buffalo is named for Buffalo Creek, a small waterway flowing through the area, but the origin of the creek’s name is a total mystery. Some folks claim it was named for a Native American chief of some notoriety, others stand by the idea that it is in fact derived from the presence of the aforementioned land mammal. The most interesting theory though, is that it came about as a corruption of a name given to the area by French fur trappers in the seventeenth or eighteenth century – Beau Fleuve or Belle Fleuve, both loosely translated as “beautiful water”. It’s likely we’ll never know, but what is clear is that Buffalo, NY has adopted the buffalo as the city’s mascot, which led to the shape of the Erie Basin Marina. I’m sure this design is as utilitarian as it is amusing. Just think, when mariners give directions to others on how to find their slip, they can just say, “I’m in the hump” or “I’m in the nose.” On second thought, maybe they don’t do this.
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Richard Lovette Interview
Testing….testing…is this thing on? Microphones are a way of life for this gentleman and he is definitely the master of his craft. Richard Lovette is a long-time friend and respected News Director for Cumulus Broadcasting in Gray, TN. Richard has established himself as a credible fixture in the local news scene for the Tri Cities thanks to his natural skill, professional demeanor and a love for the region that can move any mountain. Brian: You grew up in this area and it is a huge part of who you are. Tell us where you grew up
and what captured your interest as a kid. I know you memorized the phone book at one point, don’t you dare leave that out. And yes, this is your chance to plug your favorite sports teams because I know you are a huge sports fan. Richard: I was born in WinstonSalem, NC, but moved to Elizabethton when I was 2 ½. My parents were raised in Elizabethton and when the opportunity for my dad to work there came up, they jumped at it. As a child, I was interested in many things—from antique cars (my dad had several—I
still have one—that I’m working on—a ’59 Mercedes), sports of all kinds…and numbers. Yes, it’s true—years ago, I had a recall of phone numbers—and that came from looking at the phone book— a lot. I’m a huge Cincinnati Reds fan, and again, like to look at numbers—from the standings, to batting averages and earned run averages. Statistics are a huge part of sports—especially baseball. I’m an Elizabethon High School and East Tennessee State University graduate. Brian: What is the hardest story
you have ever covered? Tell us why it left an impression you. Richard: Over the last 15 years, there’ve been many tough stories that I’ve covered—and no one story comes to mind as the toughest, so let me share one that definitely left an impression. In the Summer
of 2004, the Carter County Commission was struggling to pass a budget. There’d been numerous attempts—to no avail. During a special called meeting in August,
Lovette .......
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Lovette ....... continued on previous page the commission was set to vote— and it was thought the votes were there to get a budget in place. The county’s emergency management director then stages a terror drill at the beginning of the meeting. This involved “upset citizens” taking over the meeting, including one “irate” person pointing a gun (I think it was a cap or toy pistol) at the head of the county’s finance director. The idea was to test the county’s emergency readiness. That’s fine—except the emergency management director failed to notify the mayor, sheriff, and commissioners BEFORE the meeting. I was informed of it beforehand, and I assumed everyone else was too. However, when I saw the chaos and confusion after the “drill” began to unfold, I thought “This isn’t going to have a good ending.” Not knowing it was a drill, someone called 9-1-1 and Elizabethton police responded—in an emergency mode. I was later told it was a matter of a minute or two before officers would have been there—with plenty of firepower. The commission meeting was recessed, and the emergency management director was actually suspended from his job for about a month while there was an investigation. He was eventually re-instated. Brian: You and I share a common bond in having been part of the news media in this region for the bulk of our careers. We both know the best way to make a larger salary in the business is to move away to a bigger market. We have both watched many friends do that
and be quite successful. What has kept you here and will you ever consider moving for money? Richard: I have stayed in the area for several reasons. Yes, there is more money in bigger markets, but there is something more important than that—this is home. This is where I was raised, and it’s a good place to live. I wouldn’t consider moving just for a larger salary. Brian: Another common bond that drives us both is our faith. That is a bit of irony because, as news men, we cannot interject that into what we do. But, since this is not a news piece, tell us how your faith has shaped you and guided your career. Richard: I think faith in God is the key element in life. My faith and my church (First United Methodist in Elizabethton) have helped guide and shape me. Life is tough enough as it is, and I couldn’t imagine not having faith in God and Jesus—and trying to make my way through this journey. Brian: Final Question, the internet and satellite radio are changing the landscape of news and the audience of traditional, terrestrial radio. You have a huge listener base and it is growing. What keeps folks tuning in? Richard: If I had one word, I would say it’s credibility. I think people know they can tune in and get the latest on what’s happening at city hall, the county courthouse, police stations, and on the roadways. I’d like to think after 15 years, people have come to trust the content of our newscasts.
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Arts Array presents “Far from the Madding Crowd”
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. Far from the Madding Crowd (Sept 21 and 22) The story of independent, beautiful and headstrong Bathsheba Everdene (Carey Mulligan), who attracts three very different suitors: Gabriel Oak (Matthias Schoenaerts), a sheep farmer, captivated by her fetching willfulness; Frank Troy (Tom Sturridge), a handsome and reckless Sergeant; and William Boldwood (Michael Sheen), a prosperous and mature bachelor. This timeless story of Bathsheba’s choices and passions explores the nature of relationships and love - as well as the human ability to overcome hardships through resilience and perseverance. Based on the novel by Thomas Hardy. 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 Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center, Emory& Henry College, and King University. Admission to the films is free for the faculties and students at the supporting institutions. Members of the general community may attend for $7.75. For a brochure on the series or more information, please contact Tommy Bryant at 276-739-2451 or email him at tbryant@vhcc.edu.
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“Rhythms Of The Mountain Empire”
A Ten Part Original Series About Local Music, Supported by Tri-City Communities & Adoring Fans
Talented Musicians Become “Cameo” Actors For The T.V. Series about Local Music… As discussed in the preceding article here in The Loafer, it has always been our intention to heavily promote the talented musicians that have been selected to participate in the 10 part original series about local music, and be given the opportunity to tell their story... T.V. SERIES A POSITIVE “STRETCH” FOR MUSICIANS.. There are 10 segments to the series and each musician and band is provided 15 minutes to help tell their part of the story about local music. Donnie Drummond & Samantha Starling will weave the tapestry of the video dialogue and supporting music into “Storytelling Segments”; turning the series into a “Ten Part Event” that will be supported by local music fans across the Tri..! PROMOTING THE MUSICAL TALENT BEYOND THE SERIES... We ask them for quotes for articles; present the musicians in a tastefully designed F.B. site named after the series; the masthead changes periodically to promote a different band. We compliment the F.B. site with a full blown website called: www.rhythmsofthemountainempire.com that is totally committed to video promotion of the musicians that will appear. We also have a “featured artist” section that changes out when fresh material is provided... We round out the opening promotional portals with a cleverly designed “App”(under construction) that will be dedicated to the bands genre of music, with snippets of information about their lives and passions. We take all of the outlets and place them
with “frequency” in over 20 digital points of entry, which provides two functions:One... it promotes the musicians appearing in the series and Two... it promotes the series through our channels of distribution and the fans that support each Band... “The true beauty of music is that it connects people. It carries a message, and we, the musicians, are the messengers”...RA A T.V. series about local music in the Tri would not be complete without the addition of two exceptionally talented musicians: J.r Moore lead vocalist for Acoustifried and Terry Mccoy lead guitarist for Asylum Suite. Their respective bands play to standing room only crowds at local venues and are always in demand. Recently they teamed up for Open Mic Nite @ troducing fresh talent to the stage. Lakeview Marina as the co-hosts When they create music together and played several sets while in- its a “Totally Joyful Experience”..!
Stay Tuned: In the next article we “feature” two more bands...
rhythmsofthemountainempire.com facebook.com/rhythmsofthemountainempire williamcamelot@mymorningcoffee.tv
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France, The History This is not an attempt to soften the opinions of those who take great pleasure in ridiculing a nation on a downswing from one of the world’s ripest historical traditions. One whose tongue was the diplomatic language of choice in all the courts of Europe and beyond for hundreds of years. One that once possessed the world’s second largest colonial empire, behind only Great Britain. One whose revolution shook the world and forever altered the political landscape and influence of Europe in ways previously unimaginable. And one that gave rise to the greatest military mind the world has ever known, the Corsican, Napolean Bonaparte. It’s easy to sit back and mock from afar the events we don’t understand. But let’s settle in for a moment. Let’s look at the history from a balanced point of view. France is a nation forged in the midst of constant turmoil, in the most war-ravaged geographical region on earth. From its beginning, its people have faced a nearly perpetual string of wars and disasters from every conceivable side. From the invasions of Julius Caesar to the Inquisition; from the Hundred Years War to the Black Death; from the French Revolution to the Napoleanic Wars; from the FrancoPrussian War to World War I; from the great flu epidemic of 1918 to World War II, the proud nation of France has not only survived—it has found a way to remain existing through it all. We can’t imagine the scale of destruction she has witnessed. We have never been the neighbor of Caesar, the conquering kings of England, the Vikings, or Adolph Hitler. We have never faced the Inquisition or been party to the Crusades.
Let us not forget the friendship we share with this unique country. We shouldn’t forget that, without the Louisiana Purchase from the French, the map of the United States might not be as grand as it is today. Neither should we forget the French contribution in the war for American independence; without it, victory against England was doubtful. And we should always remember our ties of friendship when reflecting upon the Statue of Liberty—a gift given us by an admiring French people. ‘So what’ if we had to liberate France in World War II? The American Revolution was won on the back of French naval might. We were simply returning the favor. We have a history, France and we. From our Cajun population down to our very language. The influence and relevance is right be-
fore our eyes. And it’s sad indeed that few people understand our histories well enough to recognize it. So to all of you who would ask if this an attempt to soften your opinions, I say to you—well—yeah, I guess it is.
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SAR B6 When it comes to handguns there seems to be very little middle ground, either the quality is so poor you’re better off carrying a rock around or they’re so expensive you’ll need to take out a second mortgage on your house to afford one. Well, allow me to introduce you to a mid-priced gun that doesn’t skimp on quality, the SAR B6P 9mm by European American Armory. This gun is tough as nails, comfortable, and you won’t have to lie to your significant other when they ask you how much it cost. The B6 is a CZ75 clone that features a polymer frame which makes it light, and they redesigned the original CZ design to make it more ergonomic and user friendly. It also features an ambidextrous safety for all my left-handed shooters out there. It holds 16+1 but isn’t blocky like its Glock counterparts. The B6 also has great balance, even
though the frame is a lightweight polymer, the gun doesn’t have a lot of recoil. My personal favorite feature of the B6 is it has an external hammer and can be operated single or double action. The B6 also has a chrome plated barrel which resists wear, and European American Armory prides itself on using high quality materials. So there’s no need to be nervous when you pull the trigger. As far as accuracy is concerned, the B6P performs well right out of the box. It utilizes a standard three-dot sight system. Due to its light weight and thinner profile the B6 is actually a comfortable carry gun too. The best attribute of the B6 is the value for the price. It comes in a very nice padded hard case, and with an MSRP of only $393.00 and an average retail price of $379.00 it is very affordable. This is the ideal gun for a first-time handgun buyer
Sources: https://eaacorp.com/portfolio-item/sar-b6-sarsilmaz/
or even the experienced shooter on a budget. The only downside to the B6? It only comes with one magazine, and extra magazines aren’t readily available at gun stores. Therefore if you want extra mags you have to order them online. That being said, I would rather spend $379.00 for a gun with a safety and external hammer and have to buy a couple extra mags than dish out $580.00 for a Glock with two mags and no external safety or hammer. As always I hope you enjoyed this article and if you have any questions or concerns please feel free to email me.
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so much is available with so little effort. And why do I like Apple Music so much? For one thing, I can select entire albums to curate, and for another I can create very customizable playlists and favorites. The bottom line is that Apple Music allows me to listen to stuff I haven’t heard in years along-
side today’s newest artists. And it sure beats the heck out of having to select individual albums and then placing them on a turntable “back in the day.” At the risk of alienating some of my readers, I was more than happy to abandon vinyl when CDs came along (yes, I was born in the age of vinyl, and spent most of my youth longing
nostalgic about the Sixties. Being a big fan of Sixties instrumentals, I have created a playlist of Floyd Cramer (of “Last Date” fame) albums, including “On The Rebound,” which features one of my favorite instrumentals, “Two Of A Kind,” a mushy love ballad that very much influenced my early attempts at being a famous keyboard player (a dream that still inspires me). From one extreme to the other I have several playlists devoted to contemporary music, including Taylor Swift’s “1989,” the soundtrack to the really neat horror flick, “It Follows,” Tove Lo’s “Queen Of The Clouds,” several Daft Punk selections, Alabama Shakes’ “Sound and Color,” and Sam Smith’s “In The Lonely Hour.” And then there’s lots of jazz, from late 40s and 50s be-bop to recent Robert Glasper selections (with appropriate selections from Thelonious Monk, Ramsey Lewis,
for something better and more convenient). Having a lifelong love of albums more than singles—bad songs and all—I am having a wonderful time searching out long-unheard albums along with newly-discovered treasures. Following are a few examples from my sometimes bizarre and eclectic collection that I hope will give you some suggestions for your own playlists. Let’s start with the very quirky “Mass In F Minor” by The Electric Prunes, a long-forgotten 1960s band that is associated with its only hit, “I Had Too Much To Dream Last Night.” Actually, the
Electric Prunes were never a real band, but a studio creation by influential LA producer David Axelrod. “Mass In F Minor” is one of the earliest “concept albums” and is based around Gregorian chant, augmented with electric guitars. I was once mesmerized by what I considered a work of genius, but today I value this for what it is—a musical mess, but a very interesting musical mess. In case you are interested, this album was followed by a similar concept, “Release Of An Oath,” featuring an entirely new Electric Prunes lineup. I suggest you listed to this, especially when people tend to wax
and Miles Davis thrown in for good measure). And, looking forward to the upcoming Christmas season (and in protest against the awful stuff that is played on those 24-hour holiday radio stations), I have curated interesting and very alternative seasonal music from albums like “The Reindeer Room” (Vols. 1 and 2), and the “Mistletoe Lounge”)—if you want to get into the holiday spirit, check these out, and please avoid the usual suspects like Bing Crosby’s and David Bowie’s “Little Drummer Boy” duet. And while you’re at it, don’t forget to include classic Vanilla
I Like Apple Music Yes, I know it’s not fashionable to like subscription music services, but I must admit I like Apple Music. Even after several annoying glitches that plagued the service shortly after its launch—most notably a nagging disappearance of sound which could only be remedied by rebooting the system—I stuck with it and now find myself somewhat, if not completely addicted. Now it forms a sort of trilogy with Pandora and Sirius, but unlike these two services, which create random playlists, Apple Music gives us the ability to create our own playlists, made up of either singles or albums (with a neat little radio station selector thrown in for good measure). I am one of those people who have one foot firmly planted in the pre-digital era and the other foot planted in this era of mobile and on-demand music (as well as movie and TV) streaming services. And I am grateful for the experience of having lived in both worlds. I can vividly recall a time not so long ago when everyone’s music selection was severely limited to only a few songs on the radio each day and to whatever singles or album collection (on vinyl, no less) one was surrounded by. Quite literally, if you didn’t own it on vinyl or weren’t listening to it on the radio, it didn’t exist. Now, nearly every song ever recorded can be accessed instantly in a number of ways, and then combined into playlists that are limited only by your imagination. For this reason I get very antsy anytime someone claims that music was better “back in the day” than it is now. This is simply not true. I grew up with music—both good and bad--“back in the day” and am so very thankful to be living in an era in which
Fudge and Procol Harum albums, The Ventures’ “The Ventures Play Telstar, The Lonely Bull, And Others,” Tammy Wynette’s “Anniversary: Twenty Years Of Hits” (which includes the greatest country song of all time, “You and Me”), the late Nicolette Larson’s memorable premier album, Janis Ian’s “Between The Lines,” “Chet Atkins Picks On The Beatles,” Rebecca Martin’s “Middlehope,” and if you are in a hip-shaking mood, all three albums by Rock Candy Funk Party (something I’m listening to as I near the end of this column). If you don’t feel like curating your own playlists, you can spend endless hours listing to the many pre-curated set lists provided by Apple. Just what every party and get-together needs. And then there’s the radio feature that I wish I had when I was growing up and listening to the three or four (generally bad) stations that were available in the mountains of
Western North Carolina. Like a kid in a candy store, I am totally enthralled by all the music that surrounds us these days. But the best kind, as Chet Atkins used to say, is the kind we make ourselves. So, I encourage you to play your own music, and if you don’t have access to an instrument, use Apple’s GarageBand app to get your creative juices flowing. After all, the best playlist in the world is inside your head. See you next week with another “Kelly’s Place” playlist
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