The Loafer 106

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 106

Contributing Staff

03

Drive Imagination with These Holiday Ideas for Kids

04 Spotlight 05

ETSU Native American Heritage Month

06 Brightening the Holiday Season for the Military Community

Kathie Scalf Ken Silvers Wendy Hayden Ann Hartley

07 Tri-Cities Nightlife 08 Puzzle Page 09 Pets of the Week 10 Countdown to Christmas with an Adent Calendar 10 Local Christmas Parades 11 Things To Do 12 Tri-Cities Faces and Places

14

Tips to Ease the Stress of Holiday Tasks

14

Biker Events

16 Folk and Bluegrass Legend Leads Master Class on Song Writing

The Loafer Po Box 39

22 WQUT Concert Schedule

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!

NOTE

FROM THE

PUBLISHER

06 Beezwax

13 Yao Named Quillen College of Medicine's Dishner Chair of Excellence

Andy Ross

columns & reviews

theloafer.net |November 28, 2023

2

15 Beanz Biker Corner Riding in Cold Weather 17

Social Sentiments: Create Your Social Media Branding!

19 Tea Time with Appalachian Barbie:

Thanksgiving Tips and Tricks 21 Pop Life Oppenheimer 23 Batteries Not Included: The Last Picture Show

Hello Friends!

How was your Thanksgiving? I hope everyone ate way too much and spent lots of time with family or loved ones. I cooked for several people at my house and we ate great! Did you get out to shop on Black Friday? I am hearing that sales were down at several local retail shops.

I know it is so easy to shop online and I know all too well that sometime it is necessary but we need to do our part in helping out local shops. Some of these stores are family owned and it may be their only source of income. I hope we can all help out in our community and shop local as much as possible.

Have a great week!

Love, Lisa Durbin Publisher

hook, there is no shortage of playful and thermometers to tool sets with ways to cruise through the construction toy hammers and saws, occupation site, all the while building first words playsets build confidence and offer and motor skills. A companion to other up chances for kids to pretend to be Go! Go Smart Wheels sets such as the grown-ups hard at work.

4-1 Zig-Zag Raceway, the Fast-andThoughtfully selected holiday gifts 1. Great books: Listening to a book Friendly Garage and the Rescue Tower read aloud is a chance to imagine Firehouse, young vehicle enthusiasts oneself in the setting and circumstances can race, repair and rescue during of the characters. This is especially true pretend play. when the literature is personalized.

3. Costumes: Playing dress up doesn’t Build out a child’s library this holiday need to be an annual occasion reserved season with a book that allows you to for Halloween. Whether it’s a superhero, customize the story with the child’s a princess, an animal, or a character name and from a book or show, a costume makes an illustrated character that playing pretend more thrilling all resembles them. year round, and is an excellent and 2. Construction fun: The Go! Go! Smart unexpected gift for the holiday season.

Wheels Spiral Construction Tower from 4. Puppets: Role-playing games are VTech is not just a regular track set. It always more fun and creative when features five play pieces, 11 movable parts, and seven interactive SmartPoint puppets are involved! For very young children, consider machine-washable, areas so kids can imagine they are in a all-plush puppets to make play time real construction zone. From spinning more cozy and hygienic. down the spiral tower to hauling the boulder in the talking dump truck to 5. Occupation playset: From doctor’s kits, complete with toy stethoscopes transferring the steel with the cargo To fill the holiday season with magic and joy for little ones, consider these five gift ideas that will spark the imagination and create endless opportunities for fun.

can brighten the season for little ones, and help them have more creative and imaginative playtime adventures in the year ahead.

(StatePoint)

theloafer.net | November 28, 2023

Drive Imagination With These Holiday Gift Ideas for Kids

3

Spotlight

theloafer.net |November 28, 2023

4

Brim & Marci Leal 6:30pm at Rocks Wood Fired Pizza WEDNESDAY Nov 29th Rheva & Keegan’s Irish Fiddle Tunes 5:30pm at Mulligan’s Gaming Pub

Bristol, TN/VA Bristol TN/Va WEDNESDAY Nov 29th

HB Beverly 6:30pm at Rocks Wood Fired Pizza THURSDAY Nov 30th

Poppa Squatch 7:00pm at Cascade Draft House

Jason Mychaels 6:30pm at Rocks Wood FIred Pizza

If Birds Could Fly 8:30pm at Bristol Casino Bar

FRIDAY Dec 1st

FRIDAY Dec 1st

Jeff Lane 6:30pm at Rocks Wood FIred Pizza

Dan Harrell & the Troubadors 6:00pm at Bristol Casino Bar

Annabelle’s Curse 8:00pm at the Down Home

Laid Back Country Picker | Dimestore Cowboys | Luna and the Mountain Jets 10:00pm at Capone’s

Kingsport

SATURDAY Dec 2nd

SATURDAY Dec 2nd

Kingsport, TN

FRIDAY Dec 1st

Tequila Mockingbird 9:00pm at CJ’s Sports Bar

Anthony Wayne Vibe 7:00pm at Mulligan’s Gaming Pub

Southbound Band 9:00pm at CJ’s Sports Bar

Kelsey Waldon 8:00pm at The Down Home

Abingdon, Va Abingdon, VA

Alpine Motel | Robinson Park 10:00pm at Capone’s SUNDAY Dec 3rd Rheva & Keegan’s Irish Fiddle Tunes 5:30pm at Mulligan’s Gaming Pub

Sunday Dec 3rd Josh Bowes 2:00pm at Abingdon Vineyards Jonesborough TN. Jonesborough, TN Friday Dec 1st Jason Edwards 8pm at The Tipsy Toad Tavern

Midnight Gypsys 7:00pm at Delta Blues BBQ Soulacoustix 8:00pm at Bristol Casino Bar Damon Heath 8:00pm at The Corner Craig Street Ramblers 9:00pm at Bristol Casino Bar SATURDAY Dec 2nd Victor Lawson and Boogie Chillen 8:00pm at Bristol Casino Bar Julia Still 8:00pm at The Corner Johnson City Johnson City, TN TUESDAY Nov 28th Old Time Jam 5:00pm at Yee-Haw Brewing Company

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

East Tennessee State University will host an Indigenous Heritage Celebration on Wednesday, Nov. 29, in observance of Native American Heritage Month.

This event will take place in The Cave on the first level of the D.P. Culp Student Center from 11 a.m.- 2 p.m.

It is sponsored by the Mary V. Jordan Multicultural Center and Native American Student Organization at ETSU. November is Native American Heritage Month, and its observance is important for educating people on the history and contributions of the Indigenous peoples.

“We have over 550 federally recognized tribes in the United States alone,” said Dr. Deborah Thibeault, an associate professor in the ETSU Department of Social Work. “It provides an opportunity to shed a little more light on issues that impact tribal people who

are tribally enrolled, as well as those who are not.”

Efforts to designate a day to recognize the first Americans began as early as 1914, according to the Native American Heritage Month website (nativeamericanheritagemonth.gov/).

The first joint resolution designating November as National American Indian Heritage Month was signed by President George H.W. Bush in 1990, and similar proclamations have been issued annually since 1994.

Indian Affairs at bia.gov/NNAHM, the Smithsonian Institution (si.edu/ events/native-american-heritagemonth) and Partnership with Native Americans (nativepartnership.org).

For more information on the

The Native American Heritage Month site provides more information about the history and purpose of the observance, as well as links to a plethora of virtual exhibits and collections, blogs, audio and video, images and resources for teachers.

Additional websites with information on Native American Heritage month and educational resources include the U.S. Department of the Interior

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

Indigenous Heritage Celebration, contact the Multicultural Center at (423) 439-4844 or etsumc@etsu.edu.

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

theloafer.net | November 28, 2023

ETSU to Host Indigenous Heritage Celebration for Native American Heritage Month

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theloafer.net |November 28, 2023

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Brightening the Holiday Season for the Military Community As we enter the holiday season and Americans across the country look forward to spending time with family, thousands of service members deployed overseas – many to the Middle East in response to the Israel-Hamas war – will not have that luxury and will be spending the holidays far away from loved ones.

Here is how USO Holidays programming delivers a piece of home to them, along with ideas for how you can get involved: 1. Care packages: A care package might seem small in light of the challenges of deployment, but for many service members, they’re a reminder that they’re not forgotten by Americans back home.

Aside from standard USO Care Packages, which contain snacks or toiletries, USO Holidays Care Packages have festive treats and goodies, such as holiday candies, cozy socks and a warm beanie, that help bridge the gap between home and the frontlines. This year, the USO will deliver 50,000 holiday packages to over 250 locations globally.

2. Holiday traditions: Giving up treasured family traditions can be difficult. That’s why USO Centers and USO Mobile teams host holiday meals for service members and their families, complete with special treats ranging from pumpkin and sweet potato pie to hot cocoa bars. Each December, USO Holidays Cookie Week celebrates the timehonored tradition of baking and decorating cookies, putting service members and military families in the holiday spirit wherever they are located. Other seasonal programming can include tree decorating, arts and crafts, holiday-themed movie nights and ugly sweater competitions. Through these activities, service members stationed far from home can still make holiday memories.

3. Connections to home: Staying connected to family during the holidays can be difficult for service members stationed overseas, particularly for those in or near regions in conflict such as Eastern Europe or the Middle East. The USO Reading Program enables deployed service members to record themselves reading a book to their child. Then, the recording and a copy of the book are sent to that service member’s family.

providing a place to relax and unwind before the next leg of their journey, along with all the comfort items they need.

4. Happy travels: As most people know, holiday travel can be especially taxing. Thousands of service members and trainees from military installations across the country participate in the Holiday Block Leave period, many traveling through some of the busiest airports in the United States to be with their families during the holidays. USO airport centers can alleviate some of that stress for service members and trainees by

The holiday season can look very different for service members and military families who must celebrate while separated from loved ones and home in all corners of the world. Bringing everyone together on special days fosters camaraderie and positivity, and provides a welcome break from the demands of military life.

(StatePoint)

To learn more about these programs and how to support them, and for ideas on how to reach out to the military community to express your thanks during the holidays and throughout the year, visit uso.org/campaign/holidays.

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 28, 2023

TRI-CITIES

7

theloafer.net |November 28, 2023

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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 28, 2023

PETS

OF THE WEEK

9

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.

M it te n s This unique face belongs to 7 yr old Mittens and look at those green eyes. He can be a sweet and lovable cat and will greet you with multiple meows when he wants attention, but

when he’s had enough, he’ll let you know!!! Mittens has been neutered, UTD on vaccines and microchipped.

Bday 2/1/16

There are 5 Christmas Bells hidden in this issue of The Loafer.

Can you find them all?

Last Week's Puzzle Answers Crossword

Cryptogram:

Dropquote:

G

Sudoku

u c c i

Meet Gucci . He is a 10 yr old Pointer that is so sweet, a cuddler and just wants affection. Gucci doesn’t care for small children, cats, or most dogs. He weighs 43 lbs, is healthy, leash trained and LOVES to go on walks, housebroken, neutered, current on vaccinations, microchipped

and is quite the lap dog. And how many older dogs will let you put props of them for pictures !! Won’t you be his hero and give this handsome gentleman a loving home to live out the rest of his life?

Birthday 4/16/13

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."

Local Christmas Parades

theloafer.net |November 28, 2023

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Friday 12-01-23 Gatlinburg, TN 10:30 pm

Count Down to Christmas With an Advent Calendar As Christmas approaches, there is no better way to kick off the holiday season and get the entire family excited about the approaching fun and festivities than with an advent calendar.

options, too, such as the interactive Jacquie Lawson Advent Calendar.

This unique virtual calendar offers beautiful illustrations of a fictional English country estate with daily exciting features like a scavenger For over a century, celebrants have hunt, gifts, animated stories, marked the days before Christmas books, games, creative activities, and enjoyed a daily treat, with puzzles and more. advent calendars. Fun thematic An advent calendar is not just a twists on this tradition have daily treasure trove of surprises, it’s included everything from games and puzzles for kids to dog chews a rich holiday tradition for people of all ages that embraces the for furry friends. Of course, in the modern era, there are now digital beauty of the season.(StatePoint)

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

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

Bristol, TN/VA 7 pm

Saturday 12-09-23

Apply Online, Online, in in Person Apply Person, or in the NCCU Mobile App! or in NCCU Mobile App!

Bluff City, TN 5 pm

Flexible Payment Flexible PaymentSchedules Schedules Fit YOUR YOUR Needs! totoFit Needs!

Saturday 12-09-23

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

Elizabethton, TN 6 pm

JOHNSON CITY

BRISTOL

JONESBOROUGH

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

Call for info Bill 423-444-6107 or Cheryl 423-262-6149 WEDNESDAY NOV 29TH Wednesdays We Ride 5:45 at Wrecking Crew Harley-Davidson THURSDAY NOV 30TH Farmers Market 10:00am at ETSU Pridewalk Storytime in the Park 10:30am at King Commons Park FRIDAY DEC 1ST Johnson City Love & Hiking Date For Couples (Self-Guided) 7:00am at Willow Springs Park Cinema at the Bud Frank: White Christmas 7:00pm at Bud Frank Theatre SATURDAY DEC 2ND Johnson City Love & Hiking Date For Couples (Self-Guided) 7:00am at Willow Springs Park Visions of Christmas: 1860 10:00am at Tipton-Haynes Historic Site Shiny Objects Market 10:00am at Ravenworks Gallery Deck the Holidays: Shop and Sip 2:00pm at Downtown JC FRESH 8:00pm at Wallace Theatre

WEDNESDAY NOV 29TH Open Mic Nite 8:00pm at Blue Ridge Comedy Club

TUESDAYS FRIDAY DEC 1ST Jonesborough Storytelling Guild “Stories n’More” Show 7:00pm at 20th Annual Erwin The Intl. Storytelling Center Tree Lighting Ceremony SATURDAY DEC 2ND 5:00pm at Downtown Erwin Jonesborough Farmers PINEY FLATS Market 8:00am at Downtown Jonesborough FRI DEC 1ST - SAT DEC 2ND Historic Jonesborough Town Tour 1:00pm at Chester Inn Candlelight Christmas Tours State Historic Site 4:30pm at at Rocky Mount Old Jonesborough Cemetery State Historic Site Tours 2:30pm at Heritage Alliance

THURSDAY NOV 30TH “Snow Globe” Canvas Class 6:00 PM at Kil'n Time Contemporary Ceramics FRIDAY DEC 1ST Kevin McCaffrey 8:00pm at Blue Ridge Comedy Club SATURDAY DEC 2ND Board Game Night 5:00pm at Bristol Public Library Kevin McCaffrey 8:00pm at Blue Ridge Comedy Club

ABINGDON, VA

KINGSPORT

WEDNESDAY NOV 29TH Bingo 5:00pm at Abingdon Community Center

SATURDAY DEC 2ND KFM Association Annual Craft Show 7:00am at Kingsport Farmer's Market

FRIDAY DEC 1ST Movies for Adults 2:00pm at Washington County Public Library

Nature: Wolf Howling 10:00am at Bays Mountain Park & Planetarium Breakfast with the Grinch & Santa 10:30 at The LampLight Theatre

SUNDAY DEC 3RD Bingo 5:00pm at Abingdon Community Center

Very Merry Food Truck Rally 2;00pm at KPT Public Library Kingsport Christmas Parade 6:00 pm at Downtown Kingsport To be featured in The Loafer's Things to Do email us at: theloaferonlineprint@gmail.com or call 423-930-7319

ERWIN

ELIZABETHTON

FRIDAY DEC 1ST Christmas Movie in the Park 6:00pm at Edward's Island Park

BLOUNTVILLE FRIDAY DEC 1ST Christmas Tree Lighting 6:00pm at Sullivan County Courthouse Courthouse

theloafer.net | November 28, 2023

THINGS TO DO

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theloafer.net |November 28, 2023 12

Dr. Zhi Q. Yao, division chief of research and director of East Tennessee State University’s Center of Excellence in HIV/AIDS in the Quillen College of Medicine, has been named the college’s Paul Dishner Chair of Excellence in Medicine.

Established in 1989, the primary focus of the Dishner Chair of Excellence in Medicine is to enhance research efforts in the Quillen College of Medicine.

He is well-suited for the task.

During his time at ETSU, Yao has brought more than $10 million in grant funding for his research either as the principal or coprincipal investigator on numerous research projects and has published more than 100 peer-reviewed studies. Yao was awarded ETSU’s Distinguished Faculty Award for Research in 2012.

Yao is among the many ETSU professors who regularly produce elite research, often winning competitive grants such as the university’s first major COVID-19 research grant – a team led by Yao.

“Being named the Dishner Chair of Excellence was my main career goal before I retired, as it gives me the opportunity to help live out the mission of ETSU of helping improve the quality of life for the people of our area and beyond,” said Yao. Yao, who also serves as the director of the James H. Quillen VA Medical Center’s HIV and Hepatitis Program, has been with the Quillen College of Medicine’s Department of Internal Medicine for nearly two decades.

He obtained his medical degree in 1985 and completed his Ph.D. in infectious diseases in 1991 at the Fourth Military Medical University in China.

“Dr. Yao brings a wealth of experience and expertise to this role, having enjoyed an extensive history of successful research at ETSU,” said Dr. Bill Block, dean of the Quillen College of Medicine and ETSU’s vice president for Clinical Affairs.

To learn more about the Quillen College of Medicine, visit etsu.edu/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

13

theloafer.net | November 28, 2023

Yao Named Quillen College of Medicine’s Dishner Chair of Excellence

theloafer.net |November 28, 2023

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Tips to Ease the Stress of Holiday Tasks From greeting cards to seasonal to-do personalize gift tags a bit, draw a cute lists, there’s a lot to write down and little doodle or cartoon specific to each keep track of during the holidays. gift recipient, such as their favorite Use these tips and recommendations seasonal symbols, animals or abstract to reduce stress while you complete designs. these important tasks: • Holiday cards: The holiday season is • To-do lists: Whether you’re listing the perfect time to catch friends and the gifts you must buy for loved ones, family up on the events of the past the groceries you need to prepare a year. While all that note-writing is a holiday feast, or the tasks you must beautiful way to stay connected to the complete before your guests arrive, people that matter most, it can lead to writing and referencing a lengthy writing fatigue. To write and address to-do list can be anxiety provoking.

However, choosing the colors of your your greeting cards with more ease stationery and writing utensils wisely and less stress, use a tool such as Dr. can ease these feelings and spur you Grip, a wide body ergonomic pen with to action. The colors in the G2 gel a comfortable rubber grip. Its smoothink pen’s limited-edition Harmony writing ink dries quickly to help avoid Collection were formulated to create smears, so your sentiments won’t get an oasis of calm. Color psychology muddled. To prepare envelopes in suggests that gray represents bulk, use a wet cotton ball to moisten neutrality and balance, iris blue is the glue seal, then press firmly down meditative with a touch of magic, apricot orange balances energy and on each envelope. Post your notes using fun, festive seasonal stamps. is relaxing, salmon signifies hope, health and happiness, grape connotes For more seasonal tips and inspiration, harmony, and rose pink inspires visit powertothepen.com. grace, gratitude and joy. Choose colors according to your mood, then, As your holiday to-do list grows, you keep your lists posted prominently, may be feeling a bit frazzled. Having such as on your desk, or at eye level the right tools on hand can help you on the fridge, so you stay on top complete all your tasks with ease. of tasks. After completing an item, cross it out for a sense of immediate (StatePoint) accomplishment.

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

• Calendars and planners: Plans can change quickly during the hectic holiday season, so be prepared to adapt to evolving schedules, while keeping everyone in the family updated. When entering such seasonal events as holiday office parties, cookie swaps and school plays into your calendar or planner, be sure to use ink that erases cleanly, so you can revise repeatedly as needed. Pilot’s FriXion line of erasable pens come in a variety of hues, making them a great choice for vibrant and easy color coding.

• Gift tags: Sometimes it’s the littlest details that count the most. To ensure loved ones find their names clearly on all the items they receive from you this holiday season, be sure to use a rolling ball pen, such as the Precise Deco pen, to allow for clean lines, even on small gift tags. To

Biker Events

sponsored by biker wear

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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 28, 2023

Beanz Biker Corner

Sponsored By Biker Wear

theloafer.net |November 28, 2023

16

Folk & Bluegrass Legend Leads Master Class in Songwriting Folk & Bluegrass Legend Alice Gerrard a performer and scholar. She was a central figure in the folk music revival Leads Master Class in Songwriting of the 1960s, collaborating with Dec. 9, 10 influential artists such as Hazel Dickens Special Workshop at the Birthplace of and Mike Seeger. Gerrard is celebrated Country Music Museum Songwriters for her mastery of banjo, guitar, and will have the unique opportunity to vocals, seamlessly blending traditional hone their craft with one of the most Appalachian sounds with her own iconic figures in folk and bluegrass unique interpretations. A GRAMMY music, Alice Gerrard, during a twonominated artist, Gerrard was honored day workshop at the Birthplace of with the International Bluegrass Country Music Museum Dec. 9-10. The Music Association’s Distinguished workshop is entitled “Songwriting in Achievement Award in 2001. the Tradition,” but students are given the freedom to choose the style of song The workshop takes place from 10 a.m. they are interested in writing. Class size to 12 p.m. and 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. each day. No particular skill level is required, is limited. just the desire to write a song or finish “Songwriting is personal, and everyone one you may have started. Students are will have different ideas,” said encouraged to bring along a rhyming Gerrard. “There are as many different dictionary or thesaurus, notebook, their approaches to songwriting as there are own instrument, recording devices, and songwriters. You are not alone!” fragments of inspiration, both melodic and lyric.

At 89 years of age, Alice Gerrard is a pioneering figure in the realms of folk “This is an opportunity to collaborate and bluegrass music. With a career with one of the most influential women spanning over six decades, Gerrard in the history of folk and bluegrass music,” said museum Head Curator has left an indelible mark, both as

Dr. Rene Rodgers. “Under Gerrard’s Gerrard’s workshop per person guidance, participants will complete is $150 (+tax/fee). The cost is an original composition. As an added discounted to $100 (+tax/fee) for high school and college incentive for younger songwriters, students with the discount code the program will be discounted for ALICESTUDENT. Visit the Events page high school and college students.” at BirthplaceOfCountryMusic.org to pre-register.

The cost for adults attending

17

Content is king. Three simple words convey the importance of effective social media writing. Social media is about engagement. It is a conversation between friends.

Each platform has a different way of initiating the conversation, but the goal is the same: get people talking about your brand.

Twitter focuses on short conversations. It is the equivalent of a text message. With a small character limit, getting your message across can be tricky. Keeping a thesaurus handy is advantageous to the character count of posts.

Hashtags are a great way to reach a large amount of people while also decreasing character count. Text posts work very well on Twitter. A simple post such as: “What are your #plans for this #weekend?” contains 41 characters (which is well below the Twitter limit), two widely used hashtags (which will significantly increase reach), and a subtle request to comment on the post. Tweets move at lightning speed. Asking your followers to retweet and comment on your posts will prolong your presence in the Twitter news feed. Retweets are a two way street. If a piece of information is relevant to your business, retweet it. Retweeting posts from other accounts not only helps your reach, it shows your followers that you are interested in providing valuable information, not just promoting your brand. Posting links to websites can be advantageous to your brand; however, it is best to use a link shortener such as Bit.ly or Ow.ly to decrease the character count of your post. Link shorteners also give posts a clean look.

Social Sentiments

By Wendy Hayden socialsentiments @outlook.com

socialsentiments.net

Facebook is great for long posts, links, pictures, videos, question posts, and surveys. Although Facebook allows for longer posts, status updates should be short and eye – grabbing, as readers are more likely to skim long updates. Visuals garner more engagement on Facebook than text posts. Pictures and videos are easy ways to engage fans. When posting a link, always remove the link from the status box. A clickable preview of the link will automatically generate.

The link is not needed within the status box. Do not leave the status box empty when posting a link, picture, or video.

Always post a comment to let your fans know why the post is relevant to them. If you are ever stuck for content or status ideas, check out the pages your brand follows or pages that are relevant to your industry. Following pages is a great way to boost reach and find relevant content; however, going overboard will dilute your newsfeed.

Like and follow the pages that are most relevant to your brand while keeping tabs on and posting to pages that can increase your reach.

Pinterest and Instagram are visually oriented. Posts should be eye – catching and include hashtags.

Hashtags should be used within a caption to give the post a clean look. A picture of a cell phone with the caption “What is your favorite #smartphone #app?” has a cleaner look than the same picture with the caption “What is your favorite smartphone app? #smartphone #app.” Be sure to include a link to your website on each post.

This will help boost search engine visibility while driving visitors to your site. Women are heavy users of Pinterest. Websites like Gentlemint and Dudepins are similar to Pinterest and are geared towards men.

LinkedIn is geared towards industry

professionals. The tone is serious and professional. Posts should be industry oriented. Selling your brand, not your product, is a top priority on LinkedIn. Let your followers know why they should buy from you, use your services, or work for you. Potential employees look to LinkedIn for job listings and to gain insight into the brand. Potential consumers, customers, and clients look to LinkedIn to validate their spending.

Posts should be geared towards validating each visitor’s needs.

Blogs are a great way to boost search engine visibility and spread company news. Breaking news can be posted on blogs, but it should also be promoted on other social networking sites as well, since blogs are not shared at the rate of speed of most social sites.

Although each platform has a different tone, the message should be consistent. Connections are more important than sales pitches. Focusing on connecting instead of selling will create a tone that your customers will respond and relate to. Using humor and slang is appropriate in certain situations, but keep in mind that posts should portray the personality of your brand. Think of your posts as a conversation with a friend. The expression “think before you speak” is just as true on social media as it is in real life.

theloafer.net | November 28, 2023

Create Your Social Media Branding!

theloafer.net |November 28, 2023

18

WOOD FIRED PIZZA. BURGERS. DRINKS. & FUN. TUES. Nov. 6th, 13th, 20th, 27th

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HB BEVERLY

THUR. Nov. 8th 15th, 22nd, & 29th

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HAPPY HOUR Visit Our Website for Daily Specials and Events

3119 BRISTOL HWY, JOHNSON CITY, TN (423) 262-0444

PIG OUT MENU Available for a Limited Time

HONEY SMOKIN’ PORK TACOS ULTIMATE FRIED PORK TENDERLOIN SANDWICH PIG OUT SANDWICH PIG OUT NACHOS PIG OUT SALAD

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 28, 2023

T hanksgiving Tips & Tricks

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theloafer.net |November 28, 2023

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The Ultimate Christmas Gift!

ARE YOU LOOKING TO SELL YOUR VEHICLE? LOOK NO FURTHER!

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

NO SALE = NO CHARGE CALL TO RUN CARS IN AUCTION OR GET EXTRA INFORMATION

423-262-8161 423-383-5882

2106 E Main St. Johnson City TN • 423.262.8161

facebook.com/HammerTimeAutoAuction PUBLIC AND DEALER AUCTION: FRIDAYS AT 6:30 PM

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

HAMMERTIMEAUTOAUCTION.COM

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 28, 2023

OPPENHEIMER

theloafer.net |November 28, 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

One of the blind spots in my movie-watching lexicon is the work of the late, great director Peter Bogdanovich. Last year I talked about The Criterion Collection’s fantastic release of Bogdanovich’s first film, “Targets.” Again, Criterion has dipped into Bogdanovich’s filmography with the movie he made after “Targets” and his first big success as a filmmaker, 1971’s “The Last Picture Show.”

Based on Larry McMurtry’s novel of the same name, who also co-wrote the screenplay with Bogdanovich, “The Last Picture Show” is a portrait of three teenagers in a small and dying Texas town in the early 1950s.

The three leads are all played by then relatively unknown actors, Timothy Bottoms, Jeff Bridges, and Cybil Shepherd in her first movie. I was excited to see “Picture Show” for the first time, given its long-standing reputation as one of the great American movies and a cornerstone of the American “new wave” of the 1970s.

I watched the movie two days ago and I’ve been sitting with it ever since. I’ve been thinking about

Batteries Not Included

By Andy Ross theloaferonlineprint @gmail.com

it. The film is a stunning work of filmmaking, with truly incredible performances from all involved, and the amazing Cloris Leachman who deserved the Oscar she won for her performance as the neglected wife of the high school football coach.

There were aspects of “The Last Picture Show” that did hit a little close to home. The longing and desire to escape your hometown while also trying to figure out who you are.

Shot in breathtaking Black and White, the stark and bleak landscapes of the film really stand out. Right from the opening shot of a desolate and decaying main street with the sight and sound of a wind that you can feel the cold from, the film truly creates a stunning landscape of quiet desperation and heartbreaks. This 4K UHD edition of “The Last Picture Show,” which has the film in Dolby Vision grading for high dynamic range, only goes to show one thing. There is something that we lost when black-and-white filmmaking faded away.

Bogdanovich passed away last year, so we don’t have him to approve this new 4K UHD/blu-ray combo edition from The Criterion Collection, but nonetheless, I think he’d be pleased. The 4K, Dolby Vision master was created from a 4K wet gate scan of the 35mm original camera negative. “Wet gate” scanning is a fascinating process in which the film is gently treated with a special liquid which makes scratches on the film stock disappear when light hits the frame.

This is an amazing-looking image, I was downright shocked by how a film that is over 50 years old, at times, looked like it was made yesterday. The image is beautiful, with a dynamic depth of field and a very nice layer of natural film grain. The included blu-ray of “The Last Picture Show” doesn’t use the 4K master, but a 2009 HD master

scan that was approved by Peter Bogdanovich. It looks quite good too, as the blu-ray is where the bulk of the bonus material lies.

We start with two audio commentaries. The first features Bogdanovich with actors Shepherd, Bridges, Randy Quaid, and Leachman. This was recorded in 1991 for a Criterion laserdisc release. The second commentary is from a 2009 release of the film, featuring Bogdanovich alone.

Three making-of features of the film from around 2009 are included as well. We also have screen tests, location footage, and trailers. Plus,

we get French filmmaker Francois Truffaut talking about New Hollywood in 1972.

This is all great material and makes this the definitive release of the film on home video. Adding to this is a wonderful bonus, the 1990 follow-up to the movie “Texasville,” presented on its own disc in both the color theatrical cut and Bogdanovic’s black and white director’s cut. This is a stunning, impressive three-disc release from The Criterion Collection, and an absolute must-own for any home video library. It all comes highly recommended. See you next week.

theloafer.net | November 28, 2023

The Last Picture Show

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