The Loafer 105

Holiday Happenings & Seasonal Shopping Guide

Publisher Lisa Durbin Creative Director Jon Bill Forrester Managing Editor Peggy Gale Distribution Herbie Durbin Jon Bill Forrester Entertainment Coordinator Andreax Jarre Public Relations Correspondent Lee Lee Williams

your week’s line-up

Volume 03 Issue 105

Contributing Staff Andy Ross Kathie Scalf Ken Silvers Wendy Hayden Ann Hartley

03 Candyland Christmas 04 Spotlight 05 ETSU Presenting Annual Holiday Concert 06 Frosty Melts Hearts Across SWVA 06 Beezwax 07 Tri-Cities Nightlife 08 Puzzle Page 09 Pets of the Week 10 Tusculum University Holding Vespers Service 11 Things To Do 12 Tri-Cities Faces and Places 13 ETSU Martin Center Welcomes RAIN: A Beatles Tribute 14 Christmas at the Carter Mansion 14 Biker Events 16 Skating into the Holiday 18 ETSU Offer Winter Outlook 20 Six Ways to Celebrate the Holidays 22 WQUT Concert Schedule

The Loafer Po Box 39 Telford, Tn 37690 423-930-7319 www.theloafer.net theloaferonlineprint@gmail.com All advertisements are accepted and published by the publisher upon the representation that the agency and/or advertiser is authorized to publish the entire contents and subject matter thereof. The agency and/or advertiser will indemnify and save the publisher harmless from any lossof 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

LBD FAMILY MEDIA Let’s Get Social!

columns & reviews

theloafer.net |November 21, 2023

2

NOTE

FROM THE

PUBLISHER Hello Friends!

Thanksgiving is here!!! The time to gather with family and friends to give thanks and eat yummy food. I love both! This also means the smell of Christmas is in the air!

I feel like a kid again and am so excited to decorate, shop and be with family.

We are so happy to bring our first issue of the holiday season to you this week. We have done it a little different this year so be sure to pick up all issues from now until the end of the year. We want to ask that you visit the advertisers online or in person.

We will be featuring all of them on our social media and our website. I urge you to shop local as much as you can and help our business owners stay in business.

Happy Thanksgiving!

15 Beanz Biker Corner Riding in Cold Weather 17

Social Sentiments: Don't Fall for this Scam

19 Tea Time with Appalachian Barbie:

Thanksgiving Tips and Tricks 21 Pop Life Oppenheimer 23 Batteries Not Included: Overrought Potatoes

Love, Lisa Durbin Publisher

City Welcomes Holiday Cheer with Tree Lighting Ceremony Join Johnson City officials as they kick-off Candy Land Christmas with a Grand Lighting Ceremony. Festivities are scheduled to begin on Saturday, Nov. 25 at 6:30 p.m. in King Commons Park, 112 N. Commerce St. Musical entertainment featuring seventh and eighth grade students from the Indian Trail Middle School Chorus will start the ceremony. Following the musical entertainment, City Commissioners joined by attendees will countdown to the lighting of more than 160 Candy Land Christmas trees and the community tree. With the flip of a switch, King Commons Park will become Cupcake Commons and Founders Park will transform into Gumdrop Forest.

“This event is a community favorite and mine too,” said says Special Events Manager Lindsey Jones. “Two of Downtown Johnson City’s parks transform into an enchanting holiday scene drawing visitors from all over the country. Weekly attendance is estimated in the thousands capturing repeat

visitors from across the region and beyond.”

The Grand Lighting Ceremony for Candy Land Christmas falls on Small Business Saturday.

“Visitors who attend the tree lighting are encouraged to dine at a downtown restaurant and support small businesses with early gift buying,” said Jones.

Candy Land Christmas trees are decorated by area businesses, residents, and non-profit organizations. Everyone who takes in Candy Land is encouraged to vote for their favorite tree. This year, the City has a website to make voting more convenient. Visit: rb.gy/9iy4ry for details. Voting begins Nov. 25 and will end on Dec. 8. The first place winner this year will win a free tree for the 2024 Candy Land Christmas.

Trees will be on display until Jan. 7.

Candy Land Christmas is made possible through community support and Bank of Tennessee and TownView Senior Living.

theloafer.net | November 21, 2023

Candy Land Christmas:

3

Spotlight

theloafer.net |November 21, 2023

4

Zak Saltz Band 11:00pm at Bristol Casino Bar Johnson City Johnson City, TN

Bristol, TN/VA Bristol TN/Va WEDNESDAY Nov 22nd

Jenna Greene 8:00pm at The Corner

BLOUNTVILLE

Strangers When We Met

Saturday Nov 25th

8:00pm at Model City Taphouse

Shooter Band “Italian Night” 7:00pm at the Outdoorsman

TUESDAY Nov 21st

Julia Still 6:00pm

Old Time Jam 5:00pm at Yee-Haw Brewing Company

at Flanagan Brothers Bierworks

Brim & Marci Leal 6:30pm at Rocks Wood Fired Pizza

WEDNESDAY Nov 22nd Clay Prewitt and the Loyal Traitors Rheva & Keegan’s 7:00pm at Cascade Draft House Irish Fiddle Tunes 5:30pm If Birds Could Fly 8:30pm at Mulligan’s Gaming Pub at Bristol Casino Bar HB Beverly 6:30pm FRIDAY Nov 24th at Rocks Wood Fired Pizza Bill Dotson 6:00pm FRIDAY Nov 24th at Bristol Casino Bar Tennessee Bluegrass Band Eric Cox 7:00pm 8:00pm at the Down Home at Cascade Draft House Jusfine | Lucille Klement | HiDaze From the Edge 7:00pm 10:00pm at Capone’s at Delta Blues BBQ SATURDAY Nov 25th Soulacoustix Robinella 8:00pm 8:00pm at Bristol Casino Bar at The Down Home Noah Spencer 8:00pm 1134 | Kyarn | Bacalou at The Corner 10:00pm at Capone’s The Great BIg Hug 11:00pm SUNDAY Nov 26th at Bristol Casino Bar Rheva & Keegan’s SATURDAY Nov 25th Irish Fiddle Tunes 5:30pm Ron Short and the Possum at Mulligan’s Gaming Pub Playboys 6:00pm Kingsport at Bristol Casino Bar Kingsport, TN Servility 7:00pm at Cascade Draft House

FRIDAY Nov 24th

Gabriel Knows Everything 7:00pm

Blountville, TN

Abingdon, Va Abingdon, VA

at Gypsy Circus Cider Company

Sunday Nov 26th

SATURDAY Nov 25th

Josh Bowes 2:00pm at Abingdon Vineyards

Julia Still 7:00pm at Gypsy Circus Cider Company Lawless Band 9:00pm at CJ’s Sports Bar

Elizabethton, TN Elizabethton TN. Friday Nov 24th Jason Edwards 8pm at The 19e Pitstop

WEDNESDAY Nov 22nd Pre-Thanksgiving Party with Asylum Suite 9:00pm at CJ,s Sports Bar

Submit Your Live Shows to: theloaferonlineprint@gmail.com or call 423-930-7319 to be Featured in the Loafer Spotlight

5

Looking for a nudge to get in the holiday spirit?

East Tennessee State University has you covered with the annual Holiday Concert, a popular Department of Music tradition for more than half a century.

A pair of performances are set for Saturday, Dec. 2, at the ETSU Martin Center for the Arts. Times for the concert, titled “And On Earth, Peace,” are 4 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

“This is such a special ETSU tradition,” said Dr. Alan Stevens, chair of the department. “Though tickets will be available at the door, we strongly recommend purchasing those now.”

The festive event features much-

loved holiday classics, as well as new pieces performed by talented ETSU students. The concert regularly sells out.

Tickets are available via the Martin Center Box Office. Order tickets online or call the Martin Center at (423) 439-2787.

Located as 1320 W. State of Franklin, the Martin Center is located across from the main campus of ETSU. For additional information, contact the Department of Music at 423-439-4270 or music@etsu.edu.

For disability accommodations, call the ETSU Office of Disability Services at 423-439-8346.

A Christmas Carol Fridays at 7:30 PM Saturdays at 7:30 PM Sundays at 2:30 PM Adults - $12 Students - $10 Seniors - $10 plus fees

November 17 December 17 Theatre Bristol ARTspace 506 State Street Bristol, TN

theloafer.net | November 21, 2023

ETSU Presenting Annual Holiday Concert

theloafer.net |November 21, 2023

6

Frosty Melts Hearts Across SWVA As winter approaches, families are invited to ignite the holiday spirit by continuing the cherished tradition of experiencing “Frosty” with the acclaimed Barter Players. Step into a world of enchantment as the renowned theater troupe breathes new life into this timeless classic, offering a magical escape filled with laughter, joy, and the enduring magic of live theater. The Barter Players will give two performances of “Frosty” on Saturday, Nov. 25th, 1 p.m. at Lee Theatre in Pennington Gap, and 7 p.m. at Jettie Baker Center in Clintwood. Children and students are free to attend both performances, and adult tickets are $15 at the door. Pro-Art invites families to join hands and hearts in celebrating the season with “Frosty,” ensuring that the flame of tradition continues to sparkle in the eyes of both young and old. For more information and to make reservations visit proartva.org.

In this musical adventure by Catherine Bush and Dax Dupuy, a young orphan named Billy discovers magic in a stolen hat, when he places the hat on

proartva.org. Season tickets are valid for all performances of the 2023-2024 season and can be purchased online, in person at any show, or by calling (276) 376-4520.

Pro-Art partners with a variety of venues, therefore individuals with mobility issues or general questions are encouraged to call (276) 376-4520 or email the Pro-Art office at pro-art@ uvawise.edu. For evolving conditions related to weather cancellations, or similar unforeseen circumstances, patrons are encouraged to check proartva.org for up-to-date information. a snowman’s head, that snowman comes to life!

But can Frosty help Billy find his real family in time for Christmas? Join Billy and Frosty on a thrilling quest through New York City as they discover that the real magic of the season is love.

The Barter Players are a group of professional artists who perform world-class theatre for young people. They believe in theatre that awakens the imaginations of the most exciting, most participatory audience in the world: kids. Barter Player performances focus on what brings out bravery in all of us, and shows never talk down to the audience. Because of their fierce theatricality, no-holds-barred acting, and faithfulness to the best stories ever written, they have a following among both children and adults alike. The child in all of us deserves wild adventure, incredible story, and the excitement of live theatre so close you can reach out and touch it.

Tickets to the 47th Pro-Art season are on sale now.

Explore the complete schedule of events, purchase season tickets, and make reservations at:

Pro-Art is supported in part by the Virginia Commission for the Arts, which receives support from the Virginia General Assembly and the National Endowment for the Arts, as well as the C. Bascom Slemp Foundation, The University of Virginia’s College at Wise, Mountain Empire Community College, the Columbus Phipps Foundation, and the Lee County Community Foundation.

NIGHTLIFE

WEDNESDAY Karaoke with Absolute Entertainment at The Pub Out Back (The Italian Pizza Pub) - Johnson City 7pm Karaoke w/ Eric Huskins VFW Post 2108 – Johnson City, TN 8pm Karaoke Night at Wonderland Lounge and Bar - Johnson City, TN 9pm Karaoke with Ron at Kingsport Moose Lodge 6:30pm Loudmouth Karaoke at Michael Waltrip Brewing Company - Bristol, VA on Wednesday, April 5th at 7pm THURSDAY Karaoke w/ Absolute Entertainment at Tulips Grub & Pub - Johnson City, TN 8pm Karaoke with Absolute Entertainment at Wild Wings Cafe - Johnson City, TN 9pm Karaoke at Numan’s - Johnson City, TN 10pm Karaoke at Jiggy Rays Pizzeria - Johnson City, TN Karaoke at Tipsy Toad Tavern - Jonesborough, TN FRIDAY Karaoke with Absolute Entertainment at Rainbow Asian Cuisine - Johnson City, TN 9pm Karaoke with Absolute Entertainment at The Sports Mill - Kingsport, TN 8pm Karaoke w/ Eric Huskins VFW Post 2108 – Johnson City, TN 8pm Karaoke at Numan’s – Johnson City, TN 10pm Karaoke with Handsome Hodge Entertainment at O’Mainnin’s Pub and Grille - Bristol, TN 10pm SATURDAY Karaoke with Absolute Entertainment at Tulips Grub & Pub Johnson City, TN 8pm Karaoke at Numan’s – Johnson City, TN 10pm Karaoke w/ Eric Huskins VFW Post 2108 – Johnson City, TN 8pm Karaoke at Numan’s – Johnson City, TN 10pm Karaoke with DJ Clyde and Prestige Entertainment at Macado’s -Kingsport, TN 9pm Karaoke with Handsome Hodge Entertainment at O’Mainnin’s Pub and Grille - Bristol, TN 10pm

TRIVIA

TUESDAY Team Trivia at Wild Wing Café Johnson City TN DJ Trivia at Union Street Taproom Erwin, TN 5pm Trivia at The Corner Bar Bristol, VA 8pm Trivia at Aubrey’s Johnson City 7pm WEDNESDAY Trivia at Tipsy Toad Jonesborough, TN 7pm Trivia Night Mellow Mushroom Bristol, VA 7pm Trivia at Aubrey’s Bristol 7pm THURSDAY Mellow Trivia at Mellow Mushroom Johnson City, TN- 7pm Trivia at Riverside Taphouse at South Fork Bluff City, TN 7pm

BINGO

TUESDAY Singo at Riverside Taphouse at South Fork Bluff City, TN 6:30pm

DJ NIGHT THURSDAY DJ B-Digital at O’Mainnin’s Pub and Grille Bristol, TN 10pm

WEDNESDAY Bingo at Tipton Street Pub Johnson City, TN 9pm Singo at Holy Taco & Cantina Boones Creek, TN 8pm Blazin’ Bingo at Mellow Mushroom Johnson City, TN 6pm

FRIDAY Handsome Hodge Entertainment at O’Mainnin’s Pub - Bristol, TN 10pm

THURSDAY Bingo at Mellow Mushroom Bristol VA 6pm Singo at Aubrey’s Bristol 7:00 PM

SUNDAY DJ B-Digital at O’Mainnin’s Pub and Grille Bristol, TN 10pm

SATURDAY Handsome Hodge Entertainment at O’Mainnin’s Pub - Bristol, TN 10pm

To have your events added to this list email: theloaferonlineprint@gmail.com or call: 423-930-7319

theloafer.net | November 21, 2023

TRI-CITIES

7

theloafer.net |November 21, 2023

8

SODOKU

CROSSWORD

Down 1. Critic with a handlebar 2. Grill on a patio 3. Beatles manager Brian 4. Unpaid staffers, usually 5. Tilt 6. Words in a Jack Nicholson title 7. Tax form IDs 8. Sport shoe feature 9. Airport landing hrs.

10. Good for making wire 11. Gofers' tasks 12. Hazardous insect 14. Kept the lid on 15. Not conquered

DROP QUOTE

C RYPTO G RAM

REO YLST REKLP REMR XML QMIO REO GYDSJ KQ REO DOXSMKFKLP YA REO MGMDOLOQQ YA REO GYDSJ. REMR'Q GEMR CYORDT JYOQ. — Allen Ginsberg

ACROSS 1. Aussie lasses 8. Relinquished 13. Cool quality 14. Petri dish contents 16. Hold back 17. Size of a football field, roughly 18. Hidden fingerprints 19. Jordan, once 20. Cake finisher 21. Hanoi New Year 22. Vague baseball pos.

23. Entity 25. March Madness org.

27. Bad cholesterol letters 28. Lack of confidence 31. Ending with curt or her 32. Election hopeful 33. "Foucault's Pendulum"

writer 36. "Easy!"

24. Hackman of Hollywood 25. Counts

40. Former All-Star pitcher Robb 26. It might be organized 41. Scott in a famous court case 42. "Everytime ___ You" (Perry

29. Loss of courage

Como song)

30. Hairy humanoid

44. Indians, on a scoreboard 45. Arts deg.

33. Decorate with jewels

46. Lullaby word

34. Holm of "All About Eve"

47. Echo someone else's

35. Like Carter's presidency

social update 49. Turkish title of respect 52. Subscription charge 53. Short-bodied hunting dog 54. Narrow passages

37. Emily Dickinson's hometown 38. End a separation 39. Spouse's servile words

55. 1997 Morgan Freeman movie 43. Show positions, at the track 56. What daring ones may do to fate 57. Samplers

Answers to last week’s puzzles can be found on page 09.

45. Suit 48. Gift covering 49. "L'___ c'est moi" 50. Govt. disaster agency 51. End-of-wk. times

theloafer.net | November 21, 2023

PETS

OF THE WEEK

9

La

November is officially “Adopt a Senior Pet Month”! We have some animals that continue to be overlooked for their age and some animals have lived at our place for YEARS. We are not meant to be a home, only a BRIDGE to their new home.

d

y

Lady might seem like a cat that’s complicated for adoption: She is approximately 13 years young, she is FIV positive (that means she shouldn’t be with cats that might bite her/she might bite them) and she gets nervous around other cats. She is beautiful long haired cat, that is very friendly with people and

just a love bug. Apart from occasional hairballs (that can be easily controlled by frequent brushing) Lady has no known health issues, spayed, current on vaccinations and microchipped. All our “vintage” cats have up to $35 reduction of their adoption fee.

There are 5 Santa Sacks hidden in this issue of The Loafer.

Can you find them all?

Last Week's Puzzle Answers

R y

Crossword

Cryptogram:

Dropquote:

d

Sudoku

er

Ryder is a very handsome Lab/Shepherd mix that is a senior plus he has been at the Rescue for way too long - 5 yrs and 5 months. We are a No Kill Rescue and Ryder has a home here until YOU come to give this boy a new home. He doesn’t require alot of attention like most dogs want and he has some funny quirks, but don’t we all !!! Ryder weighs 62 lbs, loves treats, napping in the sun, going on walks, house trained and tested negative for

heartworms. He is dog selective (prefers females) and no cats. He doesn’t like older men. Ryder is on a poultry free diet due to skin allergies. Other than the poultry allergies and chronic ear infections due to the allergies, he’s active and healthy. He would prefer a home with adults or older children. Ryder has been neutered, current on vaccinations and microchipped. Bday 1-13-16

If you are interested in adopting : The Bridge Home No Kill Animal Shelter 423-239-5237 • 2061 Highway 75 Blountville, TN Facebook: bridgehome

bridgehome.org

"People grow old by deserting their ideals. "What a cunning mixture of Years may wrinkle the skin, but to give up sentiment, pity, tenderness, and wrinkles the soul." irony surrounds adolescence."

theloafer.net |November 21, 2023

10

Christmas at the Carter Mansion

Tusculum University Holding Vespers Service

Tusculum University Holding Vespers Service to Help Individuals Prepare Spiritually For The Christmas Season

vespers service. The first service was highly successful and built a spirit of anticipation for the celebration of Jesus’ birth.

Prepare yourself spiritually for the start of the Christmas season by participating in a vespers service at Tusculum University.

“Our vespers service will be a delightful evening that will enrich the lives of everyone who attends,” said Dr. Chris Shumate, Tusculum’s campus minister. “We always enjoy having the community on campus, and the vespers service is a great way for all of us to deepen our faith and remind ourselves of the great gift we have received from God at Christmas with the birth of our Savior. We encourage everyone to join us.”

The Campus Ministries Office will lead the vespers service Tuesday, Nov. 28, at 6:30 p.m. in the Marilyn duBrisk Theatre of Annie Hogan Byrd Fine Arts Center. The event will include Christmas carols, Scripture readings and special music from Tusculum students and staff.

At the conclusion, everyone will move outside for the lighting of the Christmas tree in the grass next to Shiloh Road. Hot chocolate and cookies will be available in the Annie Hogan Byrd lobby after the university lights the tree.

Anyone with questions can email Dr. Shumate at cshumate@tusculum.edu. Further information about the university’s ministries is available at https://site.tusculum.edu/ campus-ministries/. To learn more about the This is the second year Tusculum has held the university, please visit www.tusculum.edu.

Our Auto Loans Can’t Be Beat!

New && Used Loans New UsedAuto Auto Loans with GREAT Rates & with GREAT RatesTerms! & Terms!

423.547.1200 Elizabethton Roan Mountain Johnson City

Apply Online, Online, in in Person Apply Person, or in the NCCU Mobile App! or in NCCU Mobile App! Flexible Payment Flexible PaymentSchedules Schedules Fit YOUR YOUR Needs! totoFit Needs!

been much different though, with only the simplest of pleasures being offered by the humble backwoods settlers.

However, in contrast, the Carters would have displayed an opulence only seen in the finest homes of Williamsburg or Philadelphia.

Enjoy the sights and sounds of the 18th century as your guide escorts you, by lantern light, through the oldest frame house in Tennessee, decorated with bright greenery and soft candlelight for the holidays. Visit with historic interpreters as they transport you to a Colonial American Christmas.

Tours begin at 6:00pm with a new tour starting every twenty minutes until the last tour at 8:20pm. General admission Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park is $14.00, Ages 12 and under are $10.00.

Presents: Christmas at the Carter Tours are by reservation only. You may Mansion. Friday and Saturday, register at tnstateparks.com/parks/ December 1 and 2 events/sycamore-shoals. We look (excludes gift cards and trade credit) Are you tired of the hustle and bustle forward to your visit for this one-of-akind holiday gathering which is sure to that always accompanies this time of year? If so, step back in time to the become an annual tradition with your family!

18th century and enjoy a colonial Christmas at the beautiful Carter The Carter Mansion is located at Mansion. Join the Carter family 1031 Broad Street, Elizabethton, TN and their friends for a glimpse into 37643. For more information contact a simpler time, when Christmas Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park was the grandest celebration of the at 423-543-5808, visit us on Facebook entire year. In colonial America the or online at: tnstateparks.com/ Christmas season was celebrated parks/sycamore-shoals, or www. as a month-long array of merriment sycamoreshoalstn.wordpress.com. You and festivities signaled by caroling, can also drop in for a visit at the park feasting, dances, foxhunts, and the visitors center and museum at firing of Christmas guns. Christmas 1651 West Elk Avenue, on the colonial frontier would have Elizabethton, TN 37643.

Black Friday Sale!!!

30% OFF ENTIRE PURCHASE

Northeast Community Kingsport Credit Union

BeMyCU.org

Elizabethton

*More than Oil Changes*

4213 W. Stone Dr. (423) 547-1200

423.245.1882 Roan Mountain Johnson City 3855 Fort Henry Dr. 423.239.0020 Johnson City 3104 Boones Creek Rd 423-406-8080 • • • •

Full Service Mechanical Dept.

ASE Certified Technicians Oil Changes, Brakes, A/C We Sell TIRES! Mon - Fri : 8 am -6 pm Sat: 8 am - 5 pm Closed Sunday

AN-37874764

10:00 to 7:00 4Mon-Saturday MARK TWAIN COURT and Sunday 12:00 6:00 JOHNSON CITY,toTN (423) 610-1088 (828) 299-1145 FACEBOOK.COM/ 800 Fairview Rd MRKSJOHNSONCITY Asheville, NC 28803 MRKSUSEDBOOKS.COM mrksusedbooks.com MON-SAT 10am-7pm SUN 12pm-6pm

JOHNSON CITY SATURDAYS ACOA (adult children of alcoholics) 1:30-3:00pm.

Call for info Bill 423-444-6107 or Cheryl 423-262-6149 THURSDAY NOV 23RD Farmers Market 10:00am at ETSU Pridewalk Storytime in the Park 10:30am at King Commons Park FRIDAY NOV 24TH Johnson City Love & Hiking Date For Couples (Self-Guided) 7:00am at Willow Springs Park SATURDAY NOV 25TH Johnson City Love & Hiking Date For Couples (Self-Guided) 7:00am at Willow Springs Park Johnson City Farmers Market 8:00am at Founders Park Buddies, Bargains, Breakfast 8:30am at Goodwill Funny Feast Stand Up Comedy Show 8:00pm at Wallace Theatre SUNDAY NOV 26TH Hiking Date For Couples 7:00am at Willow Springs Park

BRISTOL WEDNESDAY NOV 22ND State Street Farmer's Market 2:00pm at Downtown Center

Open Mic Nite 8:00pm at Blue Ridge Comedy Club SATURDAY NOV 25TH State Street Farmers Market 8:00am at Downtown Center Board Game Night 5:00pm at Bristol Public Library

KINGSPORT WEDNESDAY NOV 22ND Farmers Market 7:00am at Kingsport Farmer's Market SATURDAY NOV 25TH Farmers Market 7:00am at Kingsport Farmer's Market

Old Jonesborough Cemetery SUNDAY NOV 26TH Tours 2:30pm at Heritage Alliance Bingo 5:00pm at Abingdon Contra Dance 7;00pm at Historic Community Center Jonesborough Visitors Center

ABINGDON, VA WEDNESDAY NOV 22ND Bingo 5:00pm at Abingdon Community Center FRIDAY NOV 24TH Movies for Adults 2:00pm at Washington County Public Library

Nature: Wolf Howling 10:00am at Bays Mountain Park & Planetarium

JONESBOROUGH TUESDAYS Jonesborough Storytelling Guild “Stories n’More” Show 7:00pm at The Intl. Storytelling Center SATURDAY NOV 25TH Jonesborough Farmers Market 8:00am at Downtown Jonesborough How the Grinch Stole Christmas Readings 12:00pm at the Chester Inn Historic Jonesborough Town Tour 1:00pm at Chester Inn State Historic Site To be featured in The Loafer's Things to Do email us at: theloaferonlineprint@gmail.com or call 423-930-7319

GRAY

WEDNESDAY NOV 22ND Shadrack's Christmas Wonderland 6:00pm at Appalachian Fairgrounds SATURDAY NOV 25TH The Tri-Cities Christmas Market 10:00am at Appalachian Fair

theloafer.net | November 21, 2023

THINGS TO DO

11

theloafer.net |November 21, 2023 12

13

ETSU Martin Center for the Arts welcomes RAIN: A Tribute to the Beatles on Thursday, April 25, 2024, at 7:30 p.m.

This mind-blowing live performance takes a journey back in time with the legendary foursome delivering a theatrical event that is “the next best thing to seeing The Beatles!” (Associated Press). RAIN: A Tribute to the Beatles is an electrifying concert experience celebrating the timeless music of the legendary fab four with note-for-note precision. From energetic classics to reflective favorites, the band delivers an unforgettable performance that appeals to fans old and new. With vibrant costumes, psychedelic visuals and flawless detail, RAIN

creates a stunning concert full of nostalgia and good vibes, a nod to the 60’s but in high definition.

Together longer than The Beatles, RAIN has mastered every song, gesture, and nuance of the legendary foursome, delivering a totally live performance as infectious as it is transporting.

RAIN: A Tribute to the Beatles promises is an extraordinary journey that captivates hearts and inspires all generations.

For tickets, visit ETSUMartinCenter.org or call the Martin Center box office at (423) 439-2787.

For more information on tour dates, and tickets, please visit: http://www.raintribute.com

Layaway NOW for Christmas! www.campbellsmusic.net

(423) 929-1083

118 W Market St Johnson City, TN

Sales • Service • Pro Audio and Lighting • Music Instruction

theloafer.net | November 21, 2023

ETSU Martin Center welcomes RAIN: A Tribute to the Beatles

theloafer.net |November 21, 2023

14

Christmas at the Carter Mansion been much different though, with only the simplest of pleasures being offered by the humble backwoods settlers.

However, in contrast, the Carters would have displayed an opulence only seen in the finest homes of Williamsburg or Philadelphia.

Enjoy the sights and sounds of the 18th century as your guide escorts you, by lantern light, through the oldest frame house in Tennessee, decorated with bright greenery and soft candlelight for the holidays. Visit with historic interpreters as they transport you to a Colonial American Christmas.

Tours begin at 6:00pm with a new tour starting every twenty minutes until the last tour at 8:20pm. General admission Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park is $14.00, Ages 12 and under are $10.00.

Presents: Christmas at the Carter Tours are by reservation only. You may Mansion. Friday and Saturday, register at tnstateparks.com/parks/ December 1 and 2 events/sycamore-shoals. We look Are you tired of the hustle and bustle forward to your visit for this one-of-akind holiday gathering which is sure to that always accompanies this time of year? If so, step back in time to the become an annual tradition with your family!

18th century and enjoy a colonial Christmas at the beautiful Carter The Carter Mansion is located at Mansion. Join the Carter family 1031 Broad Street, Elizabethton, TN and their friends for a glimpse into 37643. For more information contact a simpler time, when Christmas Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park was the grandest celebration of the at 423-543-5808, visit us on Facebook entire year. In colonial America the or online at: tnstateparks.com/ Christmas season was celebrated parks/sycamore-shoals, or www. as a month-long array of merriment sycamoreshoalstn.wordpress.com. You and festivities signaled by caroling, can also drop in for a visit at the park feasting, dances, foxhunts, and the visitors center and museum at firing of Christmas guns. Christmas 1651 West Elk Avenue, on the colonial frontier would have Elizabethton, TN 37643.

Biker Events sponsored by biker wear Local Events: Local Events: 1. Dirty Mike & Butch Pig Roast Nov.4th Boozy Creek Peacemaker Club House 2. Speedway In Light Nov 18th to Jan 7th Bristol Motor Speedway 3. Thanksgiving Party Nov. 25th at Greeneville Peacemakers Club House

Parade Season is here.

Here is a list of Christmas Parades for December.

Friday 12-01-23 Gatlinburg, TN 10:30 pm Friday 12-01-23 Damascus, VA 7 pm Saturday 12-02-23 Johnson City, TN 10:30 am Saturday 12-02-23 Kingsport, TN 6 pm Sunday 12-03-23 Greeneville, TN 3 pm Thursday 12-07-23 Bristol, TN/VA 7 pm Saturday 12-09-23 Bluff City, TN 5 pm Saturday 12-09-23 Elizabethton, TN 6 pm

Biker Events

sponsored by biker wear

15

Hello everyone, hope all of you are doing well. Our riding season is coming to a close, however there are still going to be warm days and if you wrap up enough riding in cold weather can be fun to. You are never too old to ride in any weather.

fun, and conviviality without no problem. I suggest you consult your friends or other motorcyclists to know which motorcycle can fit your level and age. In addition, what I love most about motorcycles is that it is not a sport that requires too much effort from the body, and this is the main reason why adults that There is no specific age at which you are too old to ride a have relatively bad physical abilities motorcycle. It is an individual can continue to ride. And besides, and situation-based decision. motorcycle riding is just an amazing As long as you have no physical sport for adults because the truth disabilities or chronic injuries is that adults stay very lonely that can make it difficult for nowadays, so motorcycle manages you, you can ride a motorcycle to give them a fun and happy at any age. It’s never too late to feeling as well as the opportunity start riding a motorcycle. You to go out and do something new, will have to get a motorcycle and the best thing is that adults that suits your level because, who ride motorcycles make as an older person, I am sure new friends. The most common you will have had daily pain and mistake I personally see among difficulties over the years as the adults who want to start riding a years weaken the body. So, the motorcycle is that they do not get a only thing I can say for an aged model that suits their level. Adults is just getting the motorcycle that suits your level. I personally need to understand that they do not need a very fast motorcycle, know people who are 70 plus especially when they are over 70 and are still riding and even a 90-year-old who still manages to years because, at this age, it is more ride, but their purpose of riding difficult to operate a motorcycle due to more physical disabilities is not for competitions, just for and the loss of understanding that is impaired at this ages. However, if you are certain you are very healthy and your level of understanding and functioning is excellent, yes, of course, you can. It is also important to note that being able to ride a motorcycle doesn’t mean riding the motorcycle at a very crazy speed. So, I personally recommend for any adult over 70 years to get a motorcycle that doesn’t crazy speeds, especially if Beanz Biker Corner reach you have physical disabilities. I also recommend adults to ride a

By Anne Hartley motorcycle only in the range of 100 423-297-5675 cc to 600 cc; hence it is important to check that the model you want fits your level. HAPPY RIDING!

116 Buffalo Street Johnson City, TN • www.bikerweartn.com • (423) 631-0542

Useless Facts 1. Rubber bands last longer when refrigerated.

2. No number from one to 999 includes the letter “a” in its word form.

3. Edgar Allan Poe married his 13-year-old cousin.

4. Jupiter is twice as large as all the other planets combined.

5. The Super Soaker was designed and invented by a NASA engineer.

6. The average adult spends

more time on the toilet than they do exercising.

7. There is a 13.8 percent likelihood of passing away on one’s birthday.

8. Most American car horns honk in the key of F. 9. The longest time recorded of a person without sleep is approximately 264 hours.

10. Alaska is the only state whose name is on one row on a keyboard.

theloafer.net | November 21, 2023

Beanz Biker Corner

Sponsored By Biker Wear

Skating into the Holiday Season

theloafer.net |November 21, 2023

16

After drawing hundreds of visitors to campus during the last holiday season, East Tennessee State University opens its synthetic ice-skating rink to the community.

The rink is located on the ETSU University Commons, adjacent to the D.P Culp Student Center. Members of the community are welcome to skate; rental rates are available here: www.etsu.edu/oa/rink.php “Last year the rink was positively received by our students and the community, so we are excited to be able to offer it again this year,” said Jeremy Ross, ETSU chief operating officer. “ETSU is a destination yearround, bringing visitors to our campus for arts performances, athletics events, academic pursuits and so much more.

At this time of year, we encourage people to visit our campus and enjoy the holiday lights and activities on the University Commons.”

Admission for one hour of skating (including skate rental) is $6 for members of the community and $4 for those with a valid ETSU ID. There also will be skating aids available so that people of all abilities can enjoy the rink.

The 70-foot-long rink is made of Swissengineered synthetic ice that mimics the consistency of real ice. Skaters wear real ice skates to glide along its surface.

This year, the rink will be open on select dates through Dec. 17. For a complete list of days/times the rink is open, as well as rental rates, visit: etsu.edu/skate.

Group reservations are available.

From a lovely green space to the beautifully renovated D.P. Culp Student Center, ETSU has worked to make the campus experience an exceptional one.

For a map to ETSU’s holiday lights and the synthetic ice rink: www.etsu.edu/holidays/documents/ holiday-lights-map.pdf

17

It's been plastered all over Facebook, and in light of recent changes, it seems legitimate at first glance.

"Don’t forget TODAY starts the new Facebook (aka...new name, META) rule where they can use your photos. Don't forget the Deadline is today!!! I do not give Facebook or any entities associated with Facebook permission to use my pictures, information, messages or posts, both past and future. With this statement, I give notice to Facebook it is strictly forbidden to disclose, copy, distribute, or take any other action against me based on this profile and/or its contents. The information: The violation of privacy can be punished by law NOTE: Facebook is now a public entity.

All members must post a note like this.

Social Sentiments

By Wendy Hayden socialsentiments @outlook.com

socialsentiments.net

If you prefer, you can copy and paste this version. If you do not publish a statement at least once it will be tacitly allowing the use of your photos, as well as the information contained in the profile status updates.

Thank you."

Notice how the post doesn't have a certain date? That's a great clue that it's false information.

Logistically, Facebook employees do not have the time to go through every single page to search for this post, so it would likely not be seen even if it was legitimate. When you sign up for Facebook (or any other social media platform), you automatically agree to your content being accessible to Facebook employees for research and advertising purposes. You maintain ownership of your posts and all content will be deleted if your account is deleted.

Posting this false "disclaimer" is not legal in any way and does not absolve you from the terms and conditions that apply to each platform. Please take the time to read through the terms and conditions for each platform so you are fully aware of what you're signing up for.

Terms for Facebook can be found at facebook.com/legal/terms.

theloafer.net | November 21, 2023

Don't Fall For This Scam

ETSU Offers Winter Outlook for 2023-24

theloafer.net |November 21, 2023

18

The region got a taste of Old Man Winter when daytime temperature highs didn’t rise above the low 40s earlier this month.

Though the official start to the season doesn’t happen until Dec. 21, forecasters are already offering predictions for the coming cold weather months.

We will almost certainly see very cold days and very warm periods, along with stretches of precipitation and even dry spells this winter.”

Working out of Ross Hall on ETSU’s main campus, Joyner and Assistant State Climatologist Wil Tollefson use a range East Tennessee State University, of data to make their predictions. Jet home to the Tennessee Climate stream tracks, historical weather data and Office, projects: analysis from other agencies, including Close to average precipitation for much of the National Weather Service, help guide the region; their forecast.

Heavier rain and snow in the mountains, “It very likely will be wetter to our south, especially in North Carolina; and that moisture may make its way And the potential for slightly below to us, but it’s unclear if it will be rain average temperatures, especially or snow,” said Joyner. “It will be drier in January and February, for the Appalachian Highlands. to our north, so Tennessee is kind of a battleground between the wet/cool “These seasonal forecasts are certainly tricky, and this year is especially conditions to our south and dry/warm challenging,” said Dr. Andrew Joyner, conditions to our north.” the state’s official climatologist and a Because the university houses the state’s member of the ETSU Department of Geosciences. “Remember, too, that these climate office, ETSU is playing an outsized predictions reflect the entirety of winter. role in climate research.

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by Kathie Scalf

The year’s greatest and most gluttonous holiday is so close I can smell it, and if you’re in charge of feeding everyone like I am, I’m sure you’re also feeling the heat, both literally and metaphorically. I’ve cooked for just me and my parents and I’ve also cooked for a small army of people over the past 15 years, and I’ve come to realize that the pressure to perform knows no crowd size. You still want to gift the people you care about with an unforgettable meal that will have them coming back for seconds. (And eventually leaving with Tupperware if you’re lucky.) Whether it’s your first time cooking, you’re an old pro, or maybe you’ve just been asked to bring a dish or a bottle of wine and you want to impress, I’m here to toss you a few tips that I’ve learned over the years.

It will continue to cook on the counter and rise to 165, giving you a perfectly juicy finish. I also recommend stuffing butter, oil and seasonings under the skin of the breast so it will run down, keeping the white meat inside tender while the outside gets nice and crisp.

beyond that, there is nothing rude in telling people what you’re providing and inviting them to bring their own beverage if nothing suits their fancy.

For those of you who drink alcohol, wine can be as intimidating as the turkey, if not more so. But there are 2 So now for the sides. I love making the things I am here to tell you as a lover staples, but I also love the idea of asking of fine wines, that should ease your family and friends to come potluck nerves- 95% of people don’t know style and bring their own favorite dish. ANYTHING about wine, they just want This year mom and dad are handling something that tastes good and will all the desserts while I am in charge of give them a buzz. The fact that this is the main event. It relieves some of the such a food-centric holiday means the pressure from the cook and you might wine is simply there to compliment the just discover a new favorite dish to add many different flavors and aromas of to your line-up. One of my favorite sides the huge meal. You don’t want anything from my holiday dinner is a super easy that is extremely bold to overpower or but flavorful creamed corn recipe that compete with your food, nor do you I got from my ex-husband’s aunt. I still want something that is going to fade make it for my own family dinner even away and taste like water. A semi-dry 5 years later. You can also help yourself Riesling is always a good choice for For starters, the bird is the most out by prepping any chopping ahead intimidating aspect of the meal to whites, or if you want to be adventurous tackle. There’s a reason we only eat this of time. Things like celery, onions, and try something new, I would garlic and carrots can be chopped the particular fowl once a year- it was not recommend trying a soave. This Italian meant to be eaten. The thing has to be night before. Many dishes can even be white is a great alternative to sauvignon prepared ahead of time, then popped in balance without being grassy or citrusy. manipulated within an inch of it’s life the oven to bake or heat on the day of. For reds, pinot noir has always been to be edible, from brining to stuffing, rubbing with fats, tying the legs, pulling Gravy, dressing, deviled eggs, all those the recommendation. Just be wary things can be knocked out in advance. that pinot noir is grown all across the out the insides and making sure it’s Utilize your crockpot too. This year I am world and will taste far different from done without drying, it’s a tough bird making super cheesy, creamy macaroni place to place; a safe bet is always to manage. If you have a wild turkey, you are definitely going to need to brine in mine. Not only will it stay warm until Willamette Valley in Oregon. If you ready to serve, but it will create space it to get out the gamey taste. Storewant something a bit more jammy with on your stovetop. bought birds are already injected with notes of pepper spice, opt for a French Gamay. I personally love cab franc from a solution, but in years past I’ve soaked Finally, and for me most importantly, mine regardless in a brine filled with the beverage list. It’s important to have the Finger Lakes for something off the beaten path. But if you want a crowd salt, brown sugar, black peppercorn a wide variety of liquids on hand to pleaser that is going to compliment and tons of flavorful additions like satisfy every palate. Even for those of citrus, garlic and herbs. The most you who don’t drink alcohol, here in the each course and dish, you simply important thing, no matter if you’re south we all know people are particular cannot go wrong with rose or sparkling wine. Many of us think sparkling wines frying, roasting or smoking: INVEST about what they drink. You’ve got to are not meant to be paired with food IN A GOOD MEAT THERMOMETER AND have something for the aunt with the and that couldn’t be further from the DON’T RELY ON THE PLASTIC ONE THAT diet Coke addiction, lemon water for truth. And a nice bold rose is going to COMES PRE-PACKAGED! Pull your mom who is on a cleanse and make stand up to poultry, or even a salty ham turkey when it’s cooked to 160 degrees sure grandma’s sweet tea is just so. then let it rest, covered, for at least 30 Definitely always offer the standards of or seafood dish if you’re going the nonmins while you’re plating all your sides. sweetened/unsweetened tea, ice water traditional route. Don’t break the bank on expensive stuff trying to impress, with lemon and coffee. Then I always but don’t resort to grocery store grab a few 2 liters or a mix of cans of grapes either. There are thousands of the most popular sodas- cola, dr.cola, lemon lime soda and maybe a wild card beautiful, unique bottles from around like a batch of kool-aid. If they’re picky the world in specialty shops at the same

price as the mass-produced stuff in your local supermarket. You can also set up a small bar for cocktails or make a big batch of mimosas in a punch bowl for easy self-service. If all else fails, a variety of beers never hurts to have on hand, and again, BYOB is not rude.

I hope these tips help you have the best holiday possible. Though the roots of Thanksgiving are a bit marred with ugly history, I choose to create my own reason for the season- to just be thankful for what we have in this moment, nothing more nothing less. If you have people to spend the day with, food on your table and a roof over your head, you are blessed beyond measure.

So many times we ignore all the things we have and become bitter about the things we want or the things we’ve lost.

So many people pray for the things we take for granted every day. Consider that and maybe reach out to those less fortunate if you have plenty. Invite a lonely neighbor over, or just take leftovers to the homeless or volunteer.

There’s not enough of that in the world.

XO - Kathie

theloafer.net | November 21, 2023

T hanksgiving Tips & Tricks

19

theloafer.net |November 21, 2023

20

SIX Ways to Celebrate the Holidays with ArtsvilleUSA.com Artsville Collective unveils a dynamic November - December 2023 menu of programs, inviting our subscribers to six unique opportunities to engage in creativity and community throughout the holiday season. The lineup includes the release of our mid-month podcasts in November and December, with two insightful interviews featuring Marla Tambellini’s almost 30 years of leadership as she retires from EXPLORE Asheville. In December, podcast host Louise Glickman discusses art as an economic driver in small town WNC with artists and gallery owners Andy Palmer of In Tandem and Vicki Essig from MICA, friends and neighbors in Bakersville, NC. Additionally, from November 20 to January 12, 2024, the Holiday Exhibition at the Ferguson Family YMCA in Candler will exhibit small works by our outstanding Virtual Gallery Artists bringing our NEW virtual Holiday Catalog to real life.

Artsvilles newest ventures include the launch of our on-line Virtual Gallery for Artists and Holiday Catalog of Art and Craft and also, a NEW and unusual Grant

opportunity offering both funds and marketing exposure through Artsville’s West Coast affiliates at Not Real Art in LA. Our Virtual Gallery for Artists provides unique learning and exhibiting programs for our carefully curated cohort of nine artists. Each quarter, Artsville’s leaders and teachers provide national exposure and digital presence through three months of active participation in a handson experience, introducing our artists to digital and live exhibition opportunities, a marketing class, special events and podcasts. Additional exposure for these artists includes our very first Artsville’s Virtual Holiday Catalog, providing a scrumptious at-home shopping experience to be distributed digitally to over 9,000 subscribers worldwide. Link and subscribe here: www.artsvilleusa. com/holiday-catalog-2023/. For our live arts experience, visit the Ferguson YMCA in Candler where some VGA artists will show Small Works for Holiday gifting.

NOT REAL ART Grant for Artists is a $12,000 bi-annual award designed to empower the practice of six

contemporary artists, each of whom receive $2,000 plus thousands of dollars in FREE marketing exposure worldwide. ArtsvilleUSA’s West Coast affiliate Not Real Art encourages WNC visual artists, 2-D and 3-D, to apply by January 1, 2024.

This prestigious bi-annual award, established in 2019, goes far beyond financial support, providing winners with exclusive featured interviews on the NOT REAL ART podcast and blog: (NotRealArt.com), amplifying their stories and creations. Furthermore, all applicants automatically qualify for inclusion in future blog stories, newsletters, and the artist marketing database, irrespective of winning.

With the chance to win $2,000 and additional PR and marketing support, artists are encouraged to seize this opportunity to elevate their careers by introducing enthusiastic audiences to WNC arts and artisans. The application process is free, and submissions are now being accepted. To learn more and apply, visit: notrealart.com/grant/

For further information about Artsville programs and opportunities, contact Meredith McBride at mccoy.louisemcb@gmail.com or 828-216-8050.

21

"Oppenheimer" is one of those films that makes you realize how little you actually know about physics unless you study or have studied in that field.

So director Christopher Nolan presented us with "physics 101" in the biographical thriller. Of course we all know how this film dominated the summer box office with the "Barbie" film, with the two making unusual cinema pals.

The film first introduces us to J. Robert Oppenheimer (Cillian Murphy) as a 22-year-old doctoral student under the instruction of experimental physicist Patrick Blackett (James D'Arcy) at the University of Cambridge in England. While at Cambridge,.

Oppenheimer becomes homesick and suffers anxiety while dealing with his required lab work, leading him to almost carry out an unfortunate action against his professor. Despite his unhappiness, Oppenheimer is recommended to study theoretical physics in Germany, where he finally completes his PhD. After completing his studies in Germany, Oppenheimer returns to the U.S. and begins teaching at the University of California in Berkeley and the California Institute of Technology.

While teaching, he meets his future wife Katherine "Kitty"

Pop Life

By Ken Silvers theloaferonlineprint @gmail.com

Puening (Emily Blunt), a biologist and ex-communist, and later has an affair with a member of the Communist Party USA Jean Tatlock (Florence Pugh). Thus, Oppenheimer is intelligent in the world of physics, but lacks such in his personal life. In 1938 when they discovered Nazi Germany had made tremendous progress in nuclear fission, Oppenheimer and his colleagues strive to replicate their results. Then we jump to 1942, when Oppenheimer is recruited by U.S. Army General Leslie Groves (Matt Damon) to lead the Manhattan Project in order to develop an atomic bomb before the Nazis, but not before he declares he has no communist connections or sympathies. Being Jewish, Oppenheimer is especially anxious to develop the bomb before the Nazis and recruits a top notch scientific team to help in the endeavor. Eventually the scientists are successful in their creation of the bomb, but after Germany surrenders many question the need for the weapon, but Oppenheimer believes use of the bomb will quickly end the ongoing war in the Pacific.

Oppenheimer and Alfert Einstein (Tom Conti) had discussions about the destruction of the entire Earth if the bomb is used. Despite their concern, the bomb passes the Trinity test (the first detonation of a nuclear weapon), and President Harry S. Truman (Gary Oldman) orders the bomb to be dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki, Japan. The resulting devastation leads Japan to surrender, and forces Oppenheimer in the public eye, where he is dubbed "father of the atomic bomb". However, he is haunted by the immense destruction and mass fatalities, and recommends Truman restrict further nuclear weapon development, but is dismissed by Truman. Oppenheimer's stance against further nuclear weapon

development is not popular in Washington, and he comes under attack by AEC Chairman Lewis Strauss (Robert Downey, Jr.), as tensions rise in the Cold War between the U.S. and the Soviet Union. Strauss is part of a hearing which is intended to eliminate Oppenheimer's political influence, and it does not end well for one of the gentlemen. The film is fascinating and tense, even though at times you feel as if you are taking a course in physics. All the actors are superb, and expect Oscar to come calling during

awards season. Downey, Jr. was especially effective as the slimy and underhanded Strauss, and made you almost jeer him. Murphy was perfectly cast in the lead role, and dominated the screen in his scenes. Director Nolan has created another masterpiece to go along with his excellent filmography.

"Oppenheimer" is a perfect film for history buffs and those who love quality cinema. (Rated R)

theloafer.net | November 21, 2023

OPPENHEIMER

theloafer.net |November 21, 2023

22

P

CONCERT SCHEDULE KNOXVILLE TN

Bristol

Knoxville

PARAMOUNT Dec 1 Lewis Black Dec 15 Cherry Poppin Daddies Christmas Canteen Dec 16 Soultown to MotownTribute to Motown Jan 5 Daily & Vincent Jan 26 Paul Reiser Feb 3 Brad Upton Feb 20 Farm & Fun Time featuring St. Paul & The Broken Bones Mar 3 Twitty & Lynn

TENNESSEE THEATRE Dec 1 Wynonna Judd Dec 23 Manheim Steamroller Christmas Mar 16 Marc Broussard Mar 26 Scott Bradlee’s Postmodern Jukebox June 8 Brad Williams

BRISTOL TN/VA

JOHNSON CITY TN

JOHNSON CITY

FREEDOM HALL Dec 1 Keith Anderson Dec 2 Theory of a Dead Man and Skillet MARTIN CENTER FOR THE ARTS Dec 7 Steven Curtis Chapman Acoustic Christmas Dec 13 Ricky Skaggs & Kentucky Thunder Christmas Dec 16 49 Winchester with Amythyst Kiah Jan 18 Black Jacket Symphony performs Journey’s Escape Album Feb 2 Three Dog Night

GREENEVILLE TN

GREENVILLE

NISWONGER PERFORMING ARTS CENTER Dec 2 Home Free for the Holidays Dec 15 Rhythm of the Dance Christmas Special Dec 17 David Phelps It Must Be Christmas Jan 9 Dean Z-The Ultimate Elvis Jan 19 Rhonda Vincent Jan 22 Drumline Live Jan 27 The Guess Who Feb 4 The Canine Stars Feb 10 Chris Janson

MARION, VA

MARION VA

THE LINCOLN THEATRE Dec 2 Wizards of Winter Dec 30 Molly Hatchet

THOMPSON BOWLING ARENA Nov 24 Kiss: End of the Road Tour Dec 7 Trans-Siberian Orchestra Dec 8 Lauren Daigle Dec 16 Pentatonix Jan 13 Aerosmith and The Black Crowes Feb 8 Disturbed with Falling in Reverse and Plush Feb 23 Riley Green Mar 15 Lynyrd Skynyrd and ZZ Top with Black Stone Cherry Mar 16 Dan + Shay Apr 16 Tyler Childers with 49 Winchester Apr 26 Tim McGraw and Carly Pearce May 9 Zach Bryan KNOXVILLE CIVIC COLISEUM Nov 30 Kevin Gates Dec 1 & 3 Nate Bargatze KNOXVILLE CIVIC AUDITORIUM: Dec 26 The Illusionists: Magic of the Holidays Feb 15 Matt Rife Mar 1 The Fab Four performs The Beatles Rubber Soul Mar 5 Joe Bonamassa Mar 21-24 Big Ears Festival with Herbie Hancock, John Paul Jones + more BIJOU THEATRE Dec 1 & 2 WatchHouse Dec 6 The Gatlin Brothers Dec 9 Dave Barne Mar 6 Geoff Tate and Adrian Vandenberg

NASHVILLE TN

Nashville

RYMAN AUDITORIUM Nov 21 Blues Traveler Nov 22 Peter Frampton Nov 27 Liz Phair Dec 10 Ricky Skaggs & Kentucky Thunder Christmas

Dec 13-23 Amy Grant and Vince Gill Dec 15 Allman Betts Family Revival Dec 30 & 31 Old Crow Medicine Show Jan 24 Mr. Big with The Smithereens Jan 29 Elvis Costello Feb 1 The Milk Carton Kids Feb 24 Kenny Wayne Shepherd Feb 25 Billy Strings May 4 Tracy Lawrence Jun 6-9 Matt Rife BRIDGESTONE ARENA Dec 4 Travis Scott Dec 6 Trans-Siberian Orchestra Dec 8 Kevin Gates Dec 15 Old Dominion Jan 23 Tool with Elder Feb 17 Disturbed with Falling in Reverse and Plush Feb 23 Billy Strings Feb 24 Billy Strings Mar 29 Chris Tomblin Mar 31 Fall Out Boy & Jimmy Eat World Apr 25 Tim McGraw Jun 3 Niall Horan Jun 14 Luis Miguel Jun 23 Alanis Morissette, Joan Jett & Morgan Wade BROOKLYN BOWL Dec 9 49 Winchester Dec 20 & 21 Dogstar BROWN COUNTY MUSIC CENTER Nov 26 Allman Betts Family Revival Dec 14-15 Aaron Lewis Acoustic NASHVILLE MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM Oct 10 Three Days Grace and Chevelle Oct 26 -28 Hardy with Lainey Wilson

ASHEVILLE NC

ASHEVILLE, NC

EXPLOREASHEVILLE.COM ARENA Dec 9 Warren Haynes Christmas Jam with Slash and Myles Kennedy, Billy F. Gibbons, Gov’t Mule, Jason Bonham’s Led Zeppelin Evening, Clutch, American Babies featuring Tom Hamilton, Jim Hamilton and Joe Russo, Feb 16-18 Billy Strings THE ORANGE PEEL Nov 30 49 Winchester Jan 20 The Milk Carton Kids

CHARLOTTE NC

Charlotte, NC

SPECTRUM CENTER Nov 26 Doja Cat Dec 1 Ms. Lauryn Hill and the Fugees Dec 9 Trans-Siberian Orchestra Jan 14 Nate Bargatze Jan 21 Tool with Elder Feb 22 Lauren Daigle Mar 8 Olivia Rodrigo Mar 16 Eagles with Steely Dan May 17 Tim McGraw OVENS AUDITORIUM Dec 1 Home Free Dec 10 Matt Rife Mar 1 Brad Williams THE UNDERGROUND Dec 18 Dogstar THE FILLMORE Dec 15 Ashley McBryde May 5 Queensryche

CHEROKEE, NC

CHerokee, NC

HARRAH’S Nov 17 Babyface Nov 18 Jason Bonham’s Led Zeppelin Evening Dec 9 Lindsey Stirling Dec 15 Cirque Musica Holiday Wonderland

GREENVILLE, SC

Greenville, Sc

BON SECOURS WELLNESS ARENA Dec 9 Lauren Daigle Dec 11 Pentatonix Feb 14 Journey and Toto Feb 20 Disturbed with Falling in Reverse and Plush Feb 21 Stevie Nicks Mar 14 Lynyrd Skynyrd and ZZ Top Mar 5 & 6 Zach Bryan May 16 Tim McGraw

HAMPTON VA

Hampton va

HAMPTON COLISEUM Dec 8 & 9 Goose

CALL WQUT @ 477-1015 FOR MORE CONCERT INFORMATION OR VISIT WWW.WQUT.COM

23

If you’re anything like me, you’ve been deep in the weeds of Thanksgiving menu planning since the clock struck midnight on Halloween night. It doesn’t matter that most years I make almost the same lineup of favorites, the fact is that you’re always tempted to somehow top the meal from the year before. It’s in the details where you want to top things. Once you find a turkey recipe that works for you, you’ll stick with it for the rest of your life.

mashed potato. I’ve added cream and butter, herb-infused cream, I’ve added whole roasted garlic cloves.

If you can think of it, I’ve about tried it all when it comes to trying to wow my guests on Thanksgiving with a stellar mashed potato. The biggest revelation in mashed potato science that I have come across in recent years was the switch to using a ricer for the actual mashing.

I like the ricer better, as a food mill is somewhat large and I don’t know where I’d store it. Another reason why I’m not all-in on having a food mill is 1, I do not shop at Williams-Sonoma nearly enough.

2, I am not The Barefoot Contessa, and 3, I don’t make nearly enough tomato sauces to need a food mill for a once-a-year recipe. Truth is, I never make tomato sauce.

A ricer is a magical device with a chamber you place your cooked potato bits into, then you press The one recipe that you will down and it forces the cooked be tempted to overthink, overpotato through a series of holes research, and almost want to making something that looks like rebuild from the ground up is rice, and it yields the fluffiest, most mashed potatoes. Since man began flawless mashed potatoes of my life. to walk we have devised, theorized, I’ve noted when I fall into YouTube and developed approximately rabbit holes of perfect Thanksgiving 23,478,391 recipes for mashed menus from chefs I respect, they all potatoes. At the end of the day what swear by either a ricer or a matters is a good, quality potato, butter, and cream. I’ve tried nearly food mill. every mashed potato variant you could think of.

But friends you’re gonna be tempted to one-up your potatoes every year, this will send you into a frenzy of demanding perfection. I’m a perfectionist and sometimes that makes cooking on Thanksgiving a most trying ordeal. I’m trying to get better at it. But it doesn’t matter how fancy or gourmet your mashed potatoes are, people will be pleased with ones that are cooked well and flavored with cream and butter.

I’ve boiled and just gone after them with one of those old-fashioned wire mashers. I’ve baked then mashed. I’ve done a make-ahead

Batteries Not Included

By Andy Ross theloaferonlineprint @gmail.com

Thanksgiving is not a time to think of calories or fat, the only way thoughts of fat should invade your holiday brainwaves is to be thinking of what kind of butter to use in the potatoes. A nice cultured European butter can always make your guests look at you with that most satisfying look that says “I don’t know what this is I’m tasting, but I like it!”

Just stick with whatever mashed potato recipe you’ve been using that you’re happy with. It’s easy to overthink the Thanksgiving menu, but there is no reason to sweat the details. It’s wild to think that Turkey Day is a little over a week away, but 2023 has been flying by at a rapid pace. I hope you’re ready to tackle the big meal next week, you’ve got this. See you next week.

theloafer.net | November 21, 2023

Overrought Potatoes

The Ultimate Christmas Gift!

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We are now accepting vehicles to our auto auction from the public, it costs NOTHING to run the vehicle through our auction, you will only pay a fee if your vehicle is sold!

Come by and see us or message us on Facebook for more information!

Here is what you will need: 1: Clean title to vehicle in your name 2: Set a reserve price on your vehicle (what does it take to sell it) 3: Form of ID That’s it! Bring your vehicles by and we will get them checked in for the upcoming sales!

Buyer/Seller Fees: $1 to $999: $100 $1,000 to $2,499: $150 $2,500 to $4,999: $200 $5,000 to $9,999: $250 $10,000 to $19,999: $300 $20,000 and up: $400

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ONLINE BIDDING IS NOW OPEN TO THE PUBLIC! Our Auction Begins at 6:30pm each Friday Night, Please Login and Click the Blue Button on the Dashboard Below That Says “Join Simulcast” Any Time After 6:20pm in Order To Join Our Live Stream And Bid Online.

HOW TO BID?

Online: Log in to Hammertimeaa.com or Hammertimeautoauction.com you may also download the App available for your IPhone and Android (AUCTION SIMPLIFIED). Simulcast will be available 10 minutes prior to auction time, please see blue button on dashboard.

In Person: Arrive at Hammer Time Auto Auction Friday before 6:00PM and see our front desk to get registered. Dealers will have a hard pass on a lanyard and will be able to skip the line unless any changes in your profile need to be made. Dealers or public joining us for the first time will need to get a pass at the front desk at time of check in. Payments can be made by the following methods - Cash, Credit Card, Cashiers Check, Venmo, or PayPal. we do not accept personal checks. Please have a copy of your photo ID available

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