The Loafer 110

Happy New Year! “ Take a leap of faith and begin this wondrous new year by believing” -Sarah Ban Breathnach

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 110

Contributing Staff Andy Ross Kathie Scalf Ken Silvers Wendy Hayden

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Multiple Events Scheduled to Honor Martin Luther King Jr. 04 Spotlight 05 Orange Carpet Event to Celebrate the Launch of Episode Featuring Tusculum University on “The College Tour” 06 Wellness Tips for a New You in a New Year 06 Beezwax 07 Tri-Cities Nightlife 08 Puzzle Page 09 Pets of the Week 10 Barter Keeps it in the Family 11 Things To Do 12 Tri-Cities Faces and Places 14 Biker Events 16 Turn Up the Heat and Flavor for the Big Game 18 Local Non-Profit to Partner with Ukraine Non-Profit to Raise Money for Children of War 22 WQUT Concert Schedule

Ann Hartley

The Loafer Po Box 39 Telford, Tn 37690 423-930-7319

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 Hello Friends!

Happy New Year! 2024 is here to stay…………for a brief time. It seems like the months and years are just flying by. I remember being little and my Nannie telling me to enjoy being young because when you get old the time passes too quickly. I didn’t listen to my Nannie and my kids don’t listen to me lol. Did you make any big resolutions? Are you trying to lose weight or get a new job or maybe going to church more? How is that going?

Like most people I would love to lose weight but honestly I am just trying to loosen up some muscles and be healthier.

Whatever it is you are trying to change for 2024 I hope you can do it!

Have a great week!

www.theloafer.net theloaferonlineprint@gmail.com

columns & reviews

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15 Beanz Biker Corner Cold Weather Holidays 17

Social Sentiments: We Need the My Space Era Again

19 Tea Time with Appalachian Barbie:

New Year, Better You 21 Pop Life Leave the World Behind 23 Batteries Not Included: My Favorites of 2023

Love, Lisa Durbin Publisher

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Multiple events will be held throughout January to celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Day, which is observed on Monday, Jan. 15:

Worship Service What: An interdenominational worship service hosted by the Johnson City Ministerial Alliance.

Where: St. Paul African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church, 201 Welbourne St. When: Wednesday, Jan. 10, 7 p.m.

Cost: Free

Prayer Breakfast What: An annual, interfaith event that speaks to Dr. King and his legacy.

Guest speaker: Dr. Harold Middlebrook Where: Wesley Memorial United Methodist Church, 225 Princeton Road When: Saturday, Jan. 13, beginning at 8:30 a.m.

Cost: Tickets are $20 per person and may be purchased the day of the event. Proceeds support

Carver Recreation Center’s annual youth trip to a Civil Rights Movement historic site.

Storytelling Event What: Annual event that exposes youth (ages 6-12) to Dr. King and the Civil Rights Movement through storytelling and music.

Where: Carver Recreation Center, 322 W. Watauga Ave. When: Monday Jan. 15, 9 a.m.-noon.

Cost: Free

Unity Program and Walk What: A brief ceremony will culminate with a unity walk (less than 2 miles).

Where: Carver Recreation Center, 322 W. Watauga Ave. When: Monday, Jan. 15, Noon Cost: Free

Blood Drive What: In honor of those who shed blood for others by giving blood to help others.

Where: Carver Recreation Center, 322 W. Watauga Ave.

When: Monday, Jan. 15, 1-6 p.m.

Cost: Free

Community Information Session What: The information session will focus on Medicaid expansion Where: Carver Recreation Center, 322 W. Watauga Ave. When: Monday, Jan. 15, 1-3 p.m.

Cost: Free

Community Dinner What: Annual event that celebrates Dr. King’s legacy as well as honors individuals who make the community special.

Where: Carver Recreation Center, 322 W. Watauga Ave. When: Monday, Jan. 15, 6-8 p.m.

Cost: Free

Food Drive What: Countywide food drive supporting Good Samaritan Ministries, Jonesborough Ministerial Alliance Food Pantries Where: Carver Recreation Center, 322 W. Watauga Ave.; Langston

Centre, 315 Elm St.; McKinney Center, 103 Franklin Ave.; Good Samaritan Ministries, 100 N. Roan St. When: Through Monday, Jan. 15

Vincent Dial Student Art Exhibit What: Art on display will feature students from Washington County and Johnson City Schools. The artwork will be inspired by Dr. King and the Civil Rights Movement.

Where: McKinney Center, 103 Franklin Ave., Jonesborough Public Reception: Thursday, Jan. 18, 6-8 p.m.

When: Jan. 15-19

2024 Event: The Importance of MLK to the Latino/a Community What: Dr. Paul Ortiz teaches at the University of Florida. His area of research is African American and Latino/a history in the United States. He will explain the multicultural elements of the modern Civil Rights Movement.

Where: Langston Centre, 3 15 Elm St. When: Thursday, Jan. 25, 7 p.m.

For more information, call Carver Recreation Center, 423-461-8830, or the Langston Centre, 423-434-5785.

theloafer.net | January 9, 2024

Multiple Events Scheduled to Honor Martin Luther King Jr.

Spotlight

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Johnson City

Johnson City, TN

TUESDAY Jan 8th Old Time Jam 5:00pm at Yee-Haw Brewing Company Brim & Marci Leal 6:30pm at Rocks Wood Fired Pizza WEDNESDAY Jan 9th

Bristol, TN/VA Bristol TN/Va WEDNESDAY Jan 9th JC Tokes 7:00pm at Cascade Draft House Thursday Jan 10th From the Edge 6:00pm at Bristol Casino Bar FRIDAY Jan 11th

Ramona and the Holy Smokes 7:00pm at Cascade Draft House jïmïnjördï 8:00pm at The Corner Dan Herrell & The Troubadors 9:00pm at Bristol Casino Bar SATURDAY Jan 12th Annabelle’s Curse 8:00pm at Bristol Casino Bar Neal Reid & Noah Denton with Friends 7:00pm at Cascade Draft House

Coal Camp 11:00pm at Bristol Casino Bar

HB Beverly 6:30pm at Rocks Wood Fired Pizza

Kingsport, TN

FRIDAY Jan 11th Tyler Kemmerling 7:00pm at Gypsy Circus Cider Company

Gypsy Moon Coalition 9:00pm at CJ’s Sports Bar

Elizabethton, TN Elizabethton

Jake Dwyer Band 8:00pm at Model City Tap House

SATURDAY Jan 11th Nathan Morgan 6:00pm at Jiggy Rays

Little Black Mountain Band 9:00pm at CJ’s Sports Bar

Blountville Blountville, TN

SATURDAY Jan 12th

FRIDAY Dec 22nd

Blues Drivers 7:00pm at Model City Tap House

Shooterband ”Eskimo Night” 7:00pm at Outdoorsman

THURSDAY Jan 10th Jason Mychaels 6:30pm at Rocks Wood FIred Pizza FRIDAY Jan 11th Jeff Lane 6:30pm at Rocks Wood FIred Pizza

Rusty Steel 6:00pm at Bristol Casino Bar

Seth Broyles8:00pm at The Corner

Rheva & Keegan’s Irish Fiddle Tunes 5:30pm at Mulligan’s Gaming Pub

Kingsport

Blue Highway 8:00pm at The Down Home Clayton Potter 10:00pm at Capone’s SATURDAY Jan 12th Blue Highway 8:00pm at The Down Home Dan Herrell & The Troubadours 9:00pm at Wild Wing Cafe Jon Charles Dwyer | Lucille Klement | Rose Ghost 10:00pm at Capone’s SUNDAY Jan 13th Rheva & Keegan’s Irish Fiddle Tunes 5:30pm at Mulligan’s Gaming Pub

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

Celebrate the many ways Tusculum University transforms students’ lives by catching the first viewing of the episode featuring Tennessee’s first higher education institution on the national show “The College Tour.”

Feb. 8 as Tusculum University Day in the community and describing Tusculum’s impact. As guests enter the Capitol Theatre, they will have an opportunity to be photographed and to meet with Tusculum’s admission team.

Tusculum will hold an orange carpet event Thursday, Feb. 8, from 5:306:30 p.m. at the Capitol Theatre in downtown to premiere this episode. All community members are invited and are encouraged to wear orange and black, the university’s colors, to this fun and informative event.

“The College Tour” filmed the episode on campus in October. Tusculum will receive the finished product in early February.

Students David Bowlin, Stephen Brewer, Isabelle Delbridge, Kobe Funderburk, Josie Norton, Grayson Patterson, Xavier Velazquez, Maggie Vickers and Todd Wallin as well “We are ecstatic to showcase how Tusculum equips our Pioneers in a caring as 2012 graduate Dionté Grey participated in short segments. They Christian environment to be careershared their impressive Tusculum ready, civically engaged professionals,” experiences, detailed the vast array of said Dr. Scott Hummel, the university’s programs and activities that support president. “The region can be proud students, highlighted the one-onof our students’ achievements and the one connections with professors active and experiential learning we and emphasized how the foundation provide these Pioneers during their studies. Join us for this terrific event and Tusculum laid prepared them to succeed and make a difference. learn further why Tusculum is such a tremendous asset for our region.”

The show’s host, Alex Boylan, said Among the activities attendees will enjoy the orange carpet event is a can’tmiss gathering. are a performance by the Tusculum Band, a chance to meet students who “This is an incredible opportunity to be participated in the episode and a brief among the first people ever to watch question-and-answer session with them. this episode and celebrate what makes Dr. Hummel will make remarks, and Tusculum so special,” he said. People Greene County Mayor Kevin Morrison can watch his complete message at https://youtu.be/6GIXmgjUBA0. will present a proclamation declaring

Student Isabelle Delbridge, center, films her segment next to McCormick Hall.

Kobe Funderburk, front center, was one of the students who shared his Tusculum experience. Part of the filming included a session with some of his fellow men’s basketball players and J.T. Burton, the head coach, back center.

Edward Roberts, vice president of institutional advancement, who is organizing the orange carpet event and episode viewing, said community members can add their personal touch to the day’s festivities.

president of enrollment management and financial aid, who established the relationship with “The College Tour” and led the filming process on Tusculum’s end, has big plans for the event. He is inviting all students who have been “This is not just a university event but accepted to Tusculum to attend so also a way to honor the deep connections they can participate in the excitement between Tusculum and the community,” this episode has generated. He will Roberts said. “We would love for businesses also use the episode in further student to recognize the orange carpet event and recruitment efforts. episode launch on their signs or inside their facilities. Perhaps businesses want “Appearing on a national television to extend the event by staying open later show is quite an accomplishment and a and inviting community members to join recognition of the caliber of Tusculum,” them for post-watch activities. Tusculum Dr. Fait said. “Our students and Dionté is invested in the community, and we are were fabulous in discussing the value grateful for the many instances in which the of a Tusculum education, and their community invests in our students.” messages will be powerful for potential Dr. Hummel concurs. new students to understand the reason our university is the best choice.

“In addition to providing an outstanding education, Tusculum contributes Tusculum is affordable and a great significantly to the region’s economy and university to grow academically, quality of life,” he said. “Conservatively, we socially and spiritually without getting have identified an annual economic impact lost in the crowd. This episode tells that of $58.3 million. Our students will further story effectively.” strengthen the community when they put Anyone with questions about the their degrees to work after graduation. A partnership between the university and the event can email Roberts at eroberts@ community has positive ripple effects that tusculum.edu. To apply, please visit create a win-win scenario.” site.tusculum.edu/apply-visit/apply/.

More about the university is available at The primary goal of filming the episode is to attract new students. Dr. Jacob Fait, vice www.tusculum.edu.

theloafer.net | January 9, 2024

Orange Carpet Event to Celebrate the Launch of Episode Featuring Tusculum University on “The College Tour”

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Wellness Tips for a New You in the New Year If your list of New Year’s resolutions is a mile long, you may be feeling overwhelmed and unsure where to start. Let these three essential wellness tips set you up for a successful year and give you the power, energy and determination you need to reach all your other goals.

Make Time For Breakfast Many people make the mistake of skipping breakfast, particularly if they are trying to lose weight. But breakfast is an essential part of your overall health and wellbeing, giving you the fuel and energy you need to power the day until lunch. This is important to help kickstart your metabolism and regulate your hunger.

Think you don’t have time to prepare a healthy breakfast? You’re not alone. However, many are

open to implementing this habit with quicker breakfast options that cut prep time in half. In fact, 51% of consumers agree that frozen breakfast foods are the most convenient option and 37% said they would eat frozen breakfast foods more often if they were healthier, according to market research from Mintel. Thanks to quick and tasty options like Eggland’s Best Frozen Breakfast Bowls, made with hearty ingredients and ready to eat in minutes, there are efficient ways to enjoy a nutritious breakfast. Not only do the bowls taste great, but they are made with nutritionally superior Eggland’s Best eggs, which contain six times more vitamin D, more than double the Omega-3s and 10 times more vitamin E compared to ordinary eggs, so you can feel confident that you’re getting optimal nutrition before taking on the busy day ahead. The bowls are available in three great tasting flavors, Sausage & Cheese, Salsa, Bacon & Cheese, and Loaded Potato Scramble, meaning you certainly won’t get bored putting your new breakfast plan into action.

Practice Self-Care Between work, family life and other commitments, it can seem challenging to carve out time for yourself. But a little self-care goes a long way toward helping you recharge and better manage all your responsibilities and stressors. Whether it’s going for a run, taking a yoga class, doing arts and crafts or reading a book, be sure to spend some time each week doing something that you love that makes you feel your best.

Prioritize Sleep Prioritizing sleep will improve every aspect of your physical and mental wellness and help you achieve all your other goals. Unfortunately, streaming devices, social media and other

distractions make it all too easy to stay up later than you intend. Setting an alarm in the evening can serve as a gentle reminder that it’s time to put down devices and start your bedtime routine, helping you create a more consistent sleep schedule. This will also eliminate exposure to blue light late in the evening, an environmental factor that has been proven to make it harder to fall asleep.

Achieving your goals starts with feeling your best.

Make that happen in the New Year by prioritizing the most essential building blocks of health and wellness, from sunrise to sundown.

(StatePoint)

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 | January 9, 2024

TRI-CITIES

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SODOKU

CROSSWORD

DROP QUOTE

C RYPTO G RAM

IAS LYAP IAS'FC KCHHOYK AUE PXCY DUU HXC YDRCT OY IASF WUDQL WAAL XDZC R. E. DMHCF HXCR. — Arnold Palmer

Down

1. Tuscany city 2. 70mm film format 3. Accept blame 4. San ___, Calif. (border community) that's part of San Diego) 5. Seamen 6. Put in a seat 7. Gamble 8. "___ Did It" (2007 memoir) 9. Examination subject 10. Spiced hot drink 11. Hartford's st.

12. Light, in Lombardy 13. Good and mad 19. Weenie 24. Chang's twin 25. Preside over, as a committee 26. Popular Apple communication software ACROSS 37.

Romanian dance 27. Picture, for short 1. Compassion 39. Shout target 5. Laudable quality 28. Clef locale 41. Bay of Pigs locale 10. 251, in Ancient Rome 29. Paper Mate competitor 42. Rat-___ (drum sounds) 14. "____ serious as a 30. Horseman 44. Have ___ in one's throat heart attack" 31. Minsk money 15. "___ Less Ordinary" 46. Reindeer's kin 32. Furniture woods (1997 film) 47. Of the best quality 16. Day division 49. Chess knights, to some 35. "It is ___ told by an idiot..."

17. H. H. Munro's pseudonym 51. Devon river 38. Email symbols, for short 18. Opposition 52. Chunk of fairway 40. Pitcher's dream game 20. Gave a pink slip 53. Female spider's creation 43. Bunch of papers 21. "That's disgusting!"

57. Plant sci.

22. Like pigtails 45. www.whitehouse.___ 58. Military force 23. Rocker Reznor 48. Juice up 61. Sleeping Beauty baddie 25. Unexciting grade 50. Traveled aimlessly 63. 1,003, in Ancient Rome 26. Must-have gadget launched 52. Charity recipient 64.

Catty remark? in 2007 65.

"We're off ____ the wizard... " 53. Award for a sitcom 28. Common misspelling of a 66.

Wild West lawman fruity ice 54. Greek Earth goddess 67. Swerves a ship 33. "Evita" narrator 55. Soft light 68. Input, as data 34. Unwelcome, with "non" 56. Puts in stitches 36. Tickle one's curiosity 69. Forensic concerns 57. Numero uno 59. "Look!" to Luis Answers to last week’s 60. Puppy barks puzzles can be found 62. Cafe ___ leche on page 09.

This month we are highlighting special needs animals at our Rescue.

There are 5 Winter Goats hidden in this issue of The Loafer.

Can you find them all?

M EO W Meet Meow! Meow is a charming 3 yr old grey tabby gentleman who loves to say hello to visitors. With his captivating eyes, Meow is undeniably handsome. But it’s his sweet and gentle nature that truly steals the hearts of everyone he meets.

Meow is FIV positive, meaning that he should be the only cat or live only with other cats with no fights.

He has been neutered, current on vaccinations and microchipped.

Meow is patiently waiting for his new family to come for him!

Last Week's Puzzle Answers

G

Crossword

Cryptogram:

Dropquote:

"There are those that look at things the way they are, and ask why? I dream of things that never were, and ask why not."

"It is much easier to suppress a first desire than to satisfy those that follow."

y

Sudoku

p s y

Gypsy is a gorgeous Great Dane and is a special needs girl because she’s partially blind and deaf. None of that affects her happy go lucky personality. Gypsy loves to play and snuggle, super sweet and friendly, 104 lbs, gets along with other dogs

with supervision, needs some training on manners, spayed, current on vaccinations and microchipped. Must have experience with special needs dogs. Serious inquirers only. Bday 3/12/22

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

theloafer.net | January 9, 2024

PETS

OF THE WEEK

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Barter Keeps it in the Family Since 1933, Barter Theatre has been providing entertainment for families across the region. Over time, family units left their seats in the audience to take their place together on the stage to be a part of the performance. That legacy has continued over the decades – proving that Barter Theatre keeps it in the family.

Several families have performed alongside each other in shows over the years. Three of those families are currently making memories together in Barter’s holiday show Miracle on 34th Street.

favorites are Velma Kelly and Billy Flynn in Chicago, Rooster and Lily in Annie and Babette and Lumiere in Beauty and the Beast. Miracle on 34th Street is our first show onstage together with Max,” Ashley explained.

The Campos family said that Barter helps keep it in the family in terms of entertainment – and it is such a special gift.

“The Barter Players’ productions have given Max a sense of belonging, that this is a place he and other young audience

One of those families is the Campos family – Sean, Ashley, and Max – whose Barter journey together began 18 years ago.

“In 2005, Sean and I drove five hours to Barter’s local auditions hoping to be cast in the following season’s Thoroughly Modern Millie. We were, and are, grateful to have made our artistic home here ever since!” Ashley said. “Sean and I were engaged to be married when we auditioned, then we wed two weeks before Millie began rehearsals. The Barter Inn became our first home!”

Miracle on 34th Street is their first and only show so far where all three members are sharing the stage together.

“Sean and I have been in many shows together, but we’ve only occasionally played opposite each other. Some

This is the first show the Smith family has been a part of together at Barter, and they couldn’t be happier.

“I love taking my kids to see live theatre.

Watching their reactions and seeing how the story meets them where they are,” Dishon added. “We love going to all the shows we can together.”

As far as favorite shows at Barter, Seana said it’s a tie between I’ll Never Be Hungry Again (Catherine Bush) and The Last 5 Years (Jason Robert Brown).

“I did both of these with my husband as the musical director, and he was on stage for I’ll Never Be Hungry Again,” Seana said. “Theatre provides a robust and safe trajectory into understanding another perspective, either because you are inhabiting that role or are observing that character from the audience. It instills empathy and curiosity in a way that is hard to mimic in any other setting. It also requires vulnerability and trust - whether as a member of the creative team or as an audience member.

“It also allows our children to experience first-hand the magic that drew us to theatre and music, giving us a shared experience despite having not performed in shows all together (yet). Finally, it has allowed us, as parents, to see our children thrive and blossom into brave, sensitive story tellers.”

Barter continues its legacy of keeping it in the family in ways that many can’t even imagine, until they see it unfold as the curtain rises on new opportunities and generations.

Sean is a long-time member of the resident acting company and frequently serves as fight choreographer. Ashley serves as resident dance and intimacy choreographer, a costume designer, and is a resident actor. Max is the Newsboy and part of the youth ensemble in Miracle on 34th Street.

“Sean and I met working in theater and have lived our lives telling stories together. We joke that Max’s stage debut was back when I was pregnant with him for 2013’s Good Ol’ Girls, but to actually experience the whole process together from auditions, through rehearsals and tech, an exciting opening night through now has been incredibly special!” Ashley said. “Max’s first trip to the theater was when he was ten days old to visit daddy at tech for Man of La Mancha, so our theaters, rehearsal halls, and production spaces are like home to him.”

“My first contract was playing keys in the pit for kiss me Kate in 2013. I jobbed in for several shows in the pit before I became the associate music director in 2018 and then resident music director in 2019,” Dishon said.

“But my family wasn’t involved before I was.”

members are welcomed. We watch most all the Gilliam and Smith Theatre productions together as well, and the stories that Barter tells have opened up many wonderful discussions for our family,” Ashley said. “We are grateful for the opportunity to practice empathy on a daily basis.”

The Smith family also enjoys the opportunity to share the stage, on and off, with each other for Miracle on 34th Street – with father Dishon being the music director and his son Henry being part of the cast.

“There are always shows that our entire family can enjoy together as audience members. And this year we had the added bonus of being in the audience while our kids did a show that we premiered here 18 years ago,” Seana added. “Understanding that we left Abingdon and our jobs at Barter in pursuit of having children and now our Former resident acting company member children are more at home than we could Seana Hollingsworth auditioned in 2003 have dreamed (both on that stage and and performed in the 2004 - 2007 seasons with their Barter Theatre family) is such at Barter. Now, her children have taken the sweet serendipity. I can’t overstate how stage in Miracle on 34th Street, following in much my time as a resident company her footsteps in the footlights. member at Barter meant to me. The impact of moving back to Abingdon four “My husband and I have worked together years ago, watching Barter flourish under on over a dozen shows at Barter. This is our Katy Brown’s leadership, and being children’s (Benen and Alice) first show, so welcomed home by so many people we haven’t been in any productions with them,” Seana said. “My husband was hired in we love has been a gift I will 2003 as musical director and served as such never understand how to repay. I’m through 2007.” so very fortunate.”

JOHNSON CITY

THURSDAY JAN 11TH “Snowy Mountains” Canvas SATURDAYS Class 6:00 PM at Kil'n Time ACOA (adult children of Contemporary Ceramics alcoholics) 1:30-3:00pm.

Call for info Bill 423-444-6107 FRIDAY JAN 12TH or Cheryl 423-262-6149 “Snowy Bunny” Canvas THURSDAY JAN 11TH Class 6:00 PM at Kil'n Time Tri-Cities Turtles Run Club Contemporary Ceramics 12:45pm at Yee-Haw Andy Sandford 7:00pm Brewing Company at Blue Ridge Comedy Club FRIDAY JAN 12TH SATURDAY JAN 13TH Johnson City Love & Hiking Date For Couples (Self-Guided) Board Game Night 5:00pm at Bristol Public Library 7:00am at Willow Springs Park Makerspace Open Hours 2:00pm Andy Sandford 7:00pm, 9:00pm at Shakti in the Mountains at Blue Ridge Comedy Club SATURDAY JAN 13TH Johnson City Love & Hiking Date For Couples (Self-Guided) 7:00am at Willow Springs Park Storytime & Paint: Tickle Monster 10:00am at Into the FIre Bicycle Essential Maintenance Class 12:00pm at Cranky's Pump N Pints Sip and Paint With the Crew 6:00pm at Wrecking Crew Harley Davidson Boomtown Improv Comedy Show8:00pm at Wallace Theatre

BRISTOL WEDNESDAY JAN 1OTH Open Mic 8:00pm at Blue Ridge Comedy Club

KINGSPORT

WEDNESDAY JAN 1OTH PEAK Around TownLunch at Nick's 11:30am at Nick's Resturant FRIDAY JAN 12TH IBN Biz Lunch 11:30am at Pratt's BBQ Christmas at the Carousel 6:00pm at Kingsport Carousel SATURDAY JAN 13TH Nature: Wolf Howling 10:00am at Bays Mountain Park & Planetarium Family Bounce and Splash 6:00pm at Kingsport Aquatic Center

JONESBOROUGH TUESDAYS Jonesborough Storytelling Guild “Stories n’More” Show 7:00pm at The Intl. Storytelling Center SATURDAY JAN 13TH Historic Jonesborough Town Tour 1:00pm at Chester Inn State Historic Site Contra Dance 7:00pm at Jonesborough Visitor Center

ABINGDON, VA WEDNESDAY JAN 1OTH Bingo 5:00pm at Abingdon Community Center FRIDAY DEC JAN 12TH Movies for Adults 2:00pm at Washington County Public Library SUNDAY JAN 14TH Bingo 5:00pm at Abingdon Community Center

ELIZABETHTON THURSDAY JAN 11TH IBN Biz Lunch 11:30am at The Black Olive

FLAG POND WEDNESDAY JAN 1OTH 234th Anniversary Hike to the Flint Creek Battlefield 2:00pm at Lamar Alexander Rocky Fork State Park

To be featured in The Loafer's Things to Do email us at: theloaferonlineprint@gmail.com or call 423-930-7319

theloafer.net | January 9, 2024

THINGS TO DO

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theloafer.net | January 9, 2024

WOOD FIRED PIZZA. BURGERS. DRINKS. & FUN. TUES. Jan. 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd & 30th

HB BEVERLY

THUR. Jan. 4th 11th, 18th & 25th

JUSTIN MYCHALS

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

Useless Facts about Winter: 1. You can hear thundersnow if the conditions are right.

2. Snowflakes fall at a rate of 1 to 6 feet per second.

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Useless Facts sponsored by biker wear 3. The snowiest city on Earth is in Japan.

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4. Wet snow is best for snowman-building.

5. According to the Guinness World Records, on January 28, 1887, a snowflake 15 inches wide and 8 inches thick fell in Fort Keogh, Montana, making it the largest snowflake ever observed.

6. The average snowflake falls at about 3 mph.

7. While the winter solstice is the shortest day of the year, seasonal lag means that the coldest period usually follows the solstice by a few weeks.

8. The most snow ever recorded in 24 hours in the United States was at Silver Lake, Colorado, in 1921 at 76 inches.

Coming in second is Georgetown, Colorado, in December 4, 1913, at 63 inches.

Useless Facts

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15

Hello readers, well we have long as there is no snow and ice come through Halloween, on the roadways. This is a time of Thanksgiving and fall is over and year to go to holiday parties with winter is here with Christmas just friends and family. We tend to think of winter as a time of rest, around the corner, and a New hibernation, and quiet. But a look at Year approaches. the calendar reveals many holidays The winter solstice marks the around the world that prove this first day of winter, ushering in impression entirely wrong. The months of cold weather and cold months are clearly a popular winter holidays. The winter time for parties and celebrations. solstice will be Thursday, Dec. While some are filled with solemn 21, 2023, marking the first day of tradition, others focus on fun and winter. The winter solstice marks frolic. All pose opportunities for the shortest day and longest interesting and real-life lessons night of the year, according to the in geography, culture, history, National Weather Service. But and religion. Here is a list of a few don't worry, as the days go by, popular traditions celebrated the amount of sunlight increases during winter holidays around while the darkness decreases. the world.

With the colder weather, snow, Hanukkah: For eight days each ice and harsh wintery winds November or December, Jews light riding a motorcycle is not always a special candle holder called a a good option but there are still menorah. They do it to remember outdoor activities that are fun. an ancient miracle in which one Like: ice skating, kick back in day’s worth of oil burned for an outdoor hot tub, stargazing, eight days in the temple. During take a wintry hike, have an epic Hanukkah, many Jews also eat snowball fight, build a snowman, special potato pancakes called go sledding, hit the slopes, go latkes, sing songs, and spin a top snowshoeing. But there are still called a dreidel to win chocolate going to be those of us that will coins, nuts, or raisins. continue to ride motorcycles as Three Kings Day: At the end of the Twelve Days of Christmas comes a day called Epiphany, or Three Kings Day. This holiday is celebrated as the day the three wise men first saw baby Jesus and brought him gifts.

On this day in Spain, many children get their Christmas presents. In Puerto Rico, before children go to sleep on January 5, they leave a box with hay under their beds so the kings will leave good presents.

In France, a delicious King cake baked. Bakers will hide a coin, Beanz Biker Corner isjewel, or little toy inside.

By Anne Hartley 423-297-5675

St. Nicholas Day: A popular December holiday in many European countries, St. Nicholas Day, celebrates St. Nicholas of Myra, the man whose life inspired

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the tradition of Santa Claus and Father Christmas. He gave all of his money to the needy and was known for his compassion for children and all those in need. The holiday honors the man on the anniversary of his death, December 6, 343 A.D. Many celebrate with parades, feasts, gift giving, and festivals.

Christmas: People celebrate this Christian holiday by going to church, giving gifts, and sharing the day with their families. In some parts of Europe, “star singers” go caroling—singing special Christmas songs—as they walk behind a huge star on a pole. The Christmas festivities in Ireland tend to be more religious in nature rather than being about gifts. Christmas celebrations last from Christmas Eve until January 6 (Epiphany). On December 26, known as St. Stephen’s Day, an Irish tradition that is known as the Wren Boys Procession takes place. Children go from door to door singing, holding a stick that is topped by a holly bush and a wren. They ask for money for the “starving wren,” which goes into their pockets. In ancient times, a real wren was killed and fastened to the stick, but today fake wrens are used. The Christmas Eve festivities in the Ukraine are known as Sviata Vechera, which means “Holy Supper.” The celebration begins when the first evening star is sighted in the night sky.

In farming communities, the household head brings in a sheaf of wheat, which symbolizes the wheat crops of Ukraine. It is called “didukh,” which translates to “grandfather spirit.” In homes within the city, a few stalks of wheat may be used to decorate the table.

New Year: In Ecuador, families dress a straw man in old clothes on December 31. The straw man represents the old year. The family members make a will for the straw man that lists all of their faults. At midnight, they burn the straw man, in hopes that their faults will disappear with him.

Mardi Gras: The time of Lent is a solemn one of reflection for Christians, so the Tuesday before Lent begins is a time of merry-making for many people around the world. In New Orleans, people wear costumes and attend huge parades for the festival of Mardi Gras. Brazil’s Carnival also features parades, costumes, and music. This day is also known as Shrove Tuesday.

In England, some towns have pancake contests in which women run a race while flipping a pancake at least three times.

Mardi Gras usually occurs in February or March, 47 days prior to Easter.

theloafer.net | January 9, 2024

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theloafer.net | January 9, 2024

16

Turn Up the Heat and Flavor for the Big Game Hosting a Big Game watch party?

By following the playbook of BBQ experts, you’ll have your friends and family cheering for your game day spread.

• 1 teaspoon paprika

“The trick to achieving tasty BBQ is real smoke flavor. And, to get real smoke flavor, you need quality, natural hardwoods, with or without a pellet grill,” says Levi Strayer of Bear Mountain BBQ, “Start grilling with pellets, and everyone will immediately taste the difference—it’s a game changer.”

• 1 tablespoon loosely-packed light brown sugar

With that philosophy in mind, Bear Mountain BBQ ambassador Jennifer Danella is sharing two BBQ winning recipes. Both incorporate the brand’s premium pellets to bring unbeatable flavor to the table.

Sweet Heat Barbeque Wild Turkey Bites Ingredients: • 1 boneless, skinless turkey or chicken breast, approximately 2 pounds, cut into 1-inch pieces • 1 tablespoon chili powder

• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper • 1/2 teaspoon garlic salt • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• 1 package center-cut bacon, cut in half • Sliced green onions • Ranch dressing • Chef’s Choice or Butcher’s Blend Bear Mountain BBQ Pellets • 1/2 cup sweet barbecue sauce • 2 tablespoons buffalo sauce • 1 tablespoon minced garlic Directions: 1. Preheat grill to 400 degrees F. 2. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.

3. Place 1-inch turkey pieces into a medium size bowl. Sprinkle chili powder, paprika, cayenne, garlic salt, black pepper and brown sugar over top. Mix well.

4. Wrap half a slice of bacon around each turkey piece. Secure

with a toothpick and place them onto the parchment paper.

5. Place the baking sheet into your preheated grill and bake for 25 minutes. Meanwhile, combine the barbecue sauce, buffalo sauce and garlic in a small bowl.

Brush the turkey pieces halfway through cooking. Brush another layer of sauce five minutes before the cook time is over. Cook until the turkey pieces reach 165 degrees F. 6. Garnish with sliced green onions and serve with ranch dressing for dipping.

Beer Cheese Dip Ingredients: • 1 1/2 cups cheddar cheese grated • 1/2 cup gruyere cheese grated • 8 ounces cream cheese softened • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard • 1/2 of a 1-ounce Hidden Valley Ranch Packet • 2 tablespoons green onions chopped.

• 1/4 cup German lager beer • 2 tablespoons baking soda • 1 can biscuits • 1 large egg, mixed with 1 tablespoon water, for brushing biscuits • 12-inch cast iron skillet • Bear Mountain BBQ’s Chef’s Choice Blend pellets Directions: 1. Preheat pellet grill to 350 degrees F. 2. In large bowl, combine 1 cup cheddar, gruyere, cream cheese, Dijon mustard, Hidden Valley Ranch seasoning, beer and 1 tablespoon green onions. Mix evenly.

3. Cut biscuits in half. Roll each half into a ball, then slice an X across top.

4. Boil 2 cups water in medium saucepan. Once boiling, add baking soda and mix immediately.

5. Add biscuits to grill in batches and cook until puffy, approximately 1 minute. Remove and transfer to skillet, forming ring along inside edge.

6. Brush biscuits with egg wash.

Sprinkle with salt.

7. Transfer dip to center of skillet.

Sprinkle with remaining cheddar.

8. Smoke until biscuits are golden and dip is bubbly, 30-35 minutes.

9. Garnish with remaining green onions. Serve!

As you make your Game Day preparations, head to Walmart, which is carrying a new collection of Bear Mountain’s grilling and smoking pellets. The five exclusive flavors -- Smoky Apple Whiskey, Maple Bourbon Pecan, Chef’s Choice, Butcher’s Blend and Chophouse Blend -- add unrivaled flavor to all grilling and smoking occasions. The collection can also be found online at Walmart.com. For recipe ideas and techniques for adding smoke flavor to your food using any grill, visit bearmountainbbq.com.

To bring your A-game to the Big Game, level up your hosting with mouthwatering BBQ treats.

(StatePoint)

17

Friendships used to live or die by the “Myspace 8.” We had one guaranteed friend…

Tom. We coded our pages to match our personalities and chose our home page song based on our mood.

The Myspace era was a simpler time. Our pages were full of the important things in life, like who was crushing on who, what was trending, and the best songs. We were carefree and happy.

Our online world is now full of depressing news and political views. It’s a dark world where positivity is a rarity. The Myspace era needs to make a comeback.

Instead of forced politics and horrendous news, we need more uplifting content. We need the feeling of being

Social Sentiments

By Wendy Hayden socialsentiments @outlook.com

socialsentiments.net

carefree and happy again. Our newsfeeds need to be filled with people lifting each other up instead of school shootings.

We need less trying to keep up with everyone else and more using the internet to make ourselves better people.

Social media needs a retro shift back to the way it used to be. Before influencers caused us to believe our lives aren’t good enough because we aren’t jet setting to every photogenic location in the world. Before Photoshop became the reason for our insecurities. It’s up to us to make the change. How will you start the shift?

Myspace currently exists in a much different format than the original at myspace.com.

theloafer.net | January 9, 2024

We Need the Myspace Era Again

theloafer.net | January 9, 2024

18

Local Non-Profit To Partner With Ukraine Non-Profit To Raise Money For Children Of War A brand new local non-profit agency, Uniting for Artem Nataliia and Ukraine (UforANU), is giving Americans first hand opportunities to assist Ukrainians who are suffering from war. The agency is partnering with Ukranian non-profit Voices of Children to raise money for humanitarian aid.

UforANU was recently granted tax-exempt, 501(c)(3) status and is in their second month of fundraising for the benefit of Voices of Children.

UforANU is currently hosting a gift card fundraiser to raise funds for Ukraine. The fundraiser is 100% online. More information at UforANU.com/rr “No child should be left alone with the trauma of war,” is the mission theme of Voices of Children. Because children are the most vulnerable and in need of protection, UforANU has chosen Voices of Children as their first beneficiary.

Based in Kyiv, Voices of Children was established in 2019 to provide psychological and psychosocial support to Ukrainian children affected by war. UforANU was formed by Jonesborough resident Katie Rios as an adjunct mission for Americans

to be united in purpose and community in support of Ukraine and its people.

Ukrainians lives, fundraising campaigns, updated information and stories are on social media or their website, uforanu.com.

“So many times, I hear people say it’s terrible what is happening and apologizing to my Ukranian friend Nataliia about what is “So many times, I hear people say happening in her country. We are providing it’s terrible what is happening and a way for people to do more than apologize. apologizing to my Ukranian friend We are giving people a way to donate and Nataliia about what is happening in advocate for those who are suffering, both in her country. We are providing a way for Ukraine and refugees in the US,” said Rios. people to do more than apologize. We are giving people a way to donate and Every two months UforANU will donate advocate for those who are suffering, funds to an organization that is provides both in Ukraine and refugees in the US,” humanitarian aid to Ukraine and/or to said Rios. refugees in the US. They plan to host at least one fundraiser or charity event every Every two months UforANU will donate two months. funds to an organization that is provides humanitarian aid to Ukraine and/or to Rios began sponsoring two Ukranians refugees in the US. They plan to host through the Uniting for Ukraine (U4U) government initiative. Rios first met her now at least one fundraiser or charity event every two months. friend and roommate, Nataliia Ivanova, on December 23, 2022 through the Welcome US Rios began sponsoring two Ukranians website and in March of this year, Ivanova through the Uniting for Ukraine (U4U) began living in the tri-cities with Rios. government initiative. Rios first met UforANU is on all social media sites: Facebook, TikTok, and Twitter as UforANU and Instagram as U4ANU. For anyone wanting to make a difference in the

her now friend and roommate, Nataliia Ivanova, on December 23, 2022 through the Welcome US website and in March of this year, Ivanova began living in the

tri-cities with Rios.

UforANU is on all social media sites: Facebook, TikTok, and Twitter as UforANU and Instagram as U4ANU. For anyone wanting to make a difference in the Ukrainians lives, fundraising campaigns, updated information and stories are on social media or their website, uforanu.com.

by Kathie Scalf

Ah, the New Year… A time for perpetual hope and fresh starts.

your way back, climbing on board, water, make your bed, move your body and navigating your way backward til for at least 20 minutes and take in some the storm passes – is the key to lasting fresh air and sunlight. Nothing on this It’s also time for all the Negative success. Mindset truly is everything list costs you a dime but will become Nancy’s of the internet to try to rain on and for better or worse, the mind is the the most valuable assets you possess, everyone’s parade by reminding you the toughest muscle to train. as it instills discipline for the rest of percentage of New Year’s Resolutions It's for that reason so many people flop your day. If you can master your mind that fail. I think we all know most and complete these tasks every single after a few weeks on their resolutions. people fall off the wagon on their day, regardless of outside or internal We all know that come New Years Day goals for the year; we also know that the gyms will be packed and everyone influence, then you are ready to make divorce rates are astronomical, but changes to your diet and physical will be kicking off Dry January, but by no one ever brings that up during fitness. However, until you can commit February 1st those same people will engagement season. yourself to this simple routine that have backtracked completely to what The truth of the matter is, you are requires minimal effort and 30 minutes they wanted to leave behind in 2023. not going to succeed at becoming a The problem is that they didn’t master of time, you may as well not even better version of yourself until YOU are bother to try the actual hard work. Get the mindset and take the tiny steps ready. So I have no problem with when necessary before throwing themselves out of bed on the first alarm no matter someone decides to start the process, how cozy or tired you are. Ignore the full throttle into a lifestyle that is so whether its January 1st, next Thursday, foreign to their current “normal” that social media notifications. Remember or right now. Another truth that these to drink the water by setting it up on the it’s unsustainable.

Debbie Downers should remember as nightstand the night before. Make your That is because success or failure is bed, then throw on your clothes and they’re poo-poo’ing on people who found within your daily routine. go outside for a 20-30 minute walk no are excited to implement change, is that failure is inevitable and success is How you spend the first 2 hours of your matter if it’s cold or hot, rain or shine. not linear. Even the most carefully laid morning will set the tone for the entire Once you’ve ingrained this routine into plans and most committed individuals day, so developing positive habits your mind, you can begin to tackle aren’t going to have 100% wins. during that crucial time period is the your diet and exercise. Here again you Everyone has bad days, bad workouts, most important thing you can do for don’t want to just throw yourself into unexpected events that are out of your self-development. We all have an extreme regiment and need to take our control; true growth comes from different schedules that are influenced baby steps; remember, this is a lifetime knowing even on the bad days you’re by our family dynamics and obligations, commitment to betterment and there still doing more than the old version of but 90% of the people in this world is no expiration date. I would spend at waste the most valuable hours of their least a few days if not a week, simply you would. day by hitting snooze and scrolling tracking and logging your current I am here to share some actual truths on social media. Because adequate “normal.” The truth is, most of us are so you can set realistic expectations for sleep plays such a vital role in overall eating way more calories, way less 2024 - AND BEYOND. Because when it health, I suggest dedicating 8-9 hours protein, and taking way less steps than comes to lifestyle improvement, there to bed and building the rest of your we realize. Buy a food scale for $10 and shouldn’t be an end in sight; it should schedule from there. For example, I begin weighing everything you eat and be a lifetime commitment to being the have to start my workday by 9am. I also tracking in an app like MyFitnessPal. healthiest version of yourself. am someone who must workout in the Monitor your steps each day and see morning or else I won’t get it done, so to how close you’re currently getting to If you’ve chosen to become healthier, accommodate those obligations as well the necessary 10,000. Only by getting let me be the first to congratulate as showering and walking the dog, I you. With any negative or problematic the clarity of your current reality can have to wake up at the latest by 5:30am. you begin to make changes. From behavior, the first step is always That puts me in bed by 8:30-9:30pm for there, figure out your macros (you can acknowledging the problem and a full rest. However, for my friend who google this) and stick to them by eating making the decision to change it. works evenings and doesn’t end his day whole, nutritious foods and eliminating Dedicating yourself to staying the until 11pm, he hits the sack by midnight processed, boxed garbage. Once you course even when the waters get and rises at 8am. Accommodate “your are consistently hitting 10,000 steps choppy - even if it means falling normal” instead of killing yourself trying per day, before you invest in a gym completely off the boat, swimming to keep up with someone who has a membership, start mastering “prison totally different lifestyle. exercises” - basic bodyweight moves When your alarm goes off, immediately that target your whole body, cost nothing, and can be done anywhere. get out of bed and accomplish these Burpees, push-ups, sit-ups, squat simple tasks each day: Drink 20oz of

jumps, mountain climbers and planks will absolutely wreck you and will whip you into shape faster than any class or machine.

The reason behind resolution failure is that everyone sets unreasonable expectations. It’s wonderful to have an ultimate goal in mind and the motivation to jump in feet first, but the problem with motivation is that it’s fleeting. Dedication is the true key to success, and that comes with honoring daily commitments to yourself, even if you fall off the wagon and have to start over. Dedication is what picks you back up when you stumble instead of allowing you to give up completely and revert to old ways. Start by making small, attainable daily changes and master those before you attempt large, intangible goals that are completely out of your reach. Try as you might, you can’t jump from the base of a mountain to the peak. However, by taking it step by step each day, even though sometimes you must sit down and rest or even ask for directions or a boost over a rock, you WILL reach the top.

Happy New Year!

XO - Kathie

theloafer.net | January 9, 2024

New Year, Better You

19

theloafer.net | January 9, 2024 20

21

I admitted in this column I have never been a huge fan of Julia Roberts. However, as the years have passed I have had a change of heart and can now appreciate her talent. Roberts is starring, along with Mahershala Ali and Ethhan Hawke in the new film "Leave the World Behind", based on the 2020 novel by Rumaan Alam. Roberts stars as Amanda Sanford, who, at the beginning of the film, reveals she has a hatred and mistrust for humans. Amanda has unexpectedly planned a trip for her husband Clay (Hawke) and their two kids Archie (Charlie Evans) and Rose (Farrah Mackenzie) to a rented house on Long Island. You know from the beginning of the film, something ominous is going to occur due to the tone of the soundtrack music.

After the family arrives on Long Island, they settle into the beautiful house, with a pool and lots of windows for a perfect view of the woods surrounding the home. This is the type of home you would see on one of those real estate reality shows of which I love to watch. So the scene is set for the family to have a perfect holiday. However, one upsetting factor for the family is the lack of cell phone service when they get to the house, and like most of humanity, this is a disaster in the making. Rose is even more upset at the lack of cell and internet service as she has been watching the entire "Friends"

Pop Life

By Ken Silvers theloaferonlineprint @gmail.com

television series and was ready for the very last episode when the cell and internet service collapsed. Their tech issues aside, the family heads to the beach the next day, and while there an oil tanker runs ashore causing panic and evacuation. Once they return to the rented house, they have no way to connect to the outside world via television or internet to see what caused the ship to run ashore. Late the same evening while the family is asleep, someone knocks on the door, causing Amanda to panic. When Clay opens the door, he is greeted by the supposed owner of the home, G.H. Scott (Ali) and his daughter Ruth (Myha'la).

G.H. says the two returned to their home due to a blackout in the city.

Amanda doesn't trust the duo, but Clay allows them to stay overnight in the basement of the house. The following morning Clay decides to drive to town in an attempt to get information on what is going on, and G.H. is going over to the neighboring house. When he arrives at the neighbors home, G.H. discovers the grounds of the home wrecked, and when he walks over to the hill to the beach makes a shocking discovery. While on the beach, he sees a passenger plane crash before him. Meanwhile, while attempting to get into town, Clay encounters a panicked lady beside the road who only speaks Spanish, of which he does not speak. In a split second decision, he abandons the lady, and then encounters a drone dropping leaflets, causing him to head back to the house. While Clay was away, Rose has seen deer come on to the property in large numbers, but when she tells Archie, he expresses no concern. Later, Archie and Rose walk down to a nearby shed, and while there, a sudden shrill noise causes all the parties to cover their ears in pain. Clay and Amanda soon make the decision to head back to the city, but while on the way encounter a blocked highway full of abandoned vehicles, resulting in their return to the house. After they return to the house matters soon

turn from bad to worse, as the shrill noise returns, this time so powerful it cracks windows in the house. The next morning as the family awakens, Archie is sick and his top teeth begin to fall out. Panicked, G.H. attempts to get help for Archie from one of his neighbors, Danny (Kevin Bacon), a doomsday preparist, but he is uncooperative, unti pleas from Clay make him agreeable.

From this point forward in the film, the families discover what is causing their world to be turned upside down (no spoiler here), and eventually find a safe haven.

Producer and director Sam Esmail

("Mr. Robot") has created a tense and edge-of-your-seat thriller, leaving me pondering "what if", which is clearly the point of the novel and film. The actors involved are all in top form, with Roberts and Hawke making a great onscreen couple. In addition, seeing Kevin Bacon in a brief but unforgettable cameo was great. If you are looking for a psychological thriller, "Leave the World Behind" is your ticket. Now streaming on Netflix and in limited theatrical release.

(Rated R)

theloafer.net | January 9, 2024

Leave the World Behind

theloafer.net | January 9, 2024

22

P

CONCERT SCHEDULE Bristol

BRISTOL TN/VA

TENNESSEE THEATRE Mar 16 Marc Broussard Mar 26 Scott Bradlee’s Postmodern Jukebox June 8 Brad Williams

Feb 2 Feb 14 Feb 9 Feb 17

Cody Johnson Anita Baker Pantera with Lamb of God PARAMOUNT Disturbed with Falling in Jan 5 Daily & Vincent Reverse and Plush Jan 26 Paul Reiser Feb 23 Billy Strings Feb 3 Brad Upton THOMPSON BOWLING ARENA Feb 24 Billy Strings Feb 20 Farm & Fun Time featuring St. Jan 13 Aerosmith and The Black Crowes Mar 1 Sam Hunt Paul & The Broken Bones Feb 8 Disturbed with Falling in Reverse Mar 21 Dan + Shay Mar 29 Chris Tomblin Mar 3 Twitty & Lynn and Plush Mar 31 Fall Out Boy & Jimmy Eat World Feb 23 Riley Green Mar 15 Lynyrd Skynyrd and ZZ Top with Apr 14 Jeff Dunham JOHNSON CITY Apr 18 & 19 Tyler Childers Black Stone Cherry Apr 25 Tim McGraw Mar 16 Dan + Shay Apr 29 The Postal Service with Death MARTIN CENTER FOR THE ARTS Mar 28 Avenged Sevenfold with Poppy & Cab For Cutie and Pulp Jan 18 Black Jacket Symphony performs Sullivan King May 11 Bad Bunny Journey’s Escape Album Apr 4 Sam Hunt May 24 & 25 Noah Kahan Jun 3 Niall Horan Feb 2 Three Dog Night Apr 6 Bert Kreischer Jun 14 Luis Miguel Apr 13 The Chain-Fleetwood Mac Tribute Band Apr 16 Tyler Childers with 49 Winchester Jun 23 Alanis Morissette, Joan Jett & Morgan Wade Apr 25 Rain: A tribute to the Beatles Apr 26 Tim McGraw and Carly Pearce May 9 Zach Bryan BROOKLYN BOWL GREENVILLE KNOXVILLE CIVIC AUDITORIUM: May 16 Mammoth WVH Dec 26 The Illusionists: BROWN COUNTY MUSIC CENTER Magic of the Holidays NISWONGER PERFORMING ARTS CENTER Feb 10 Yacht Rock Revue Feb 15 Matt Rife Jan 9 Dean Z-The Ultimate Elvis Mar 2 John Michael Montgomery Mar 1 The Fab Four performs The Jan 19 Rhonda Vincent Mar 24 Steve HackettBeatles Rubber Soul Jan 22 Drumline Live Genesis Revisited Mar 5 Joe Bonamassa Jan 27 The Guess Who May 4 Beth Hart Mar 21-24 Big Ears Festival with Herbie Feb 4 The Canine Stars Hancock, John Paul Jones + more Feb 10 Chris Janson NASHVILLE MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM Feb 19 Drew & Ellie Holcomb Oct 10 Three Days Grace and Chevelle Nashville Mar 1 The Steeldrivers Oct 26 -28 Hardy with Lainey Wilson Mar 9 Jeff Allen RYMAN AUDITORIUM Mar 6 Sawyer Brown Dec 29 Pete Davidson Live ASCEND AMPHITHEATRE Mar 22 Stayin Alive: One night of the Dec 30 & 31 Old Crow Medicine Show Apr 27 Cody Jinks Bee Gees Jan 20 American Aquarium May 31 & Jun 1 Lainey Wilson Apr 5 Evil Woman-The American ELO Jan 24 Mr. Big with The Smithereens Apr 13 Firehouse Jan 28 Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons Jun 22 Cypress Hill May 4 Anthem Lights Jan 29 Elvis Costello & The Imposters Jul 12 Styx, Foreigner and John Waite May 10 John Anderson Acoustic with Charlie Sexton Aug 13 Creed with Tonic and May 14 Brothers of the Heart Feb 1 The Milk Carton Kids Finger Eleven Feb 16 & 17 Clint Black MARION VA Feb 24 Kenny Wayne Shepherd NISSAN STADIUM Feb 25 Billy Strings Jul 20 Def Leppard and Journey THE LINCOLN THEATRE Mar 12 Tesla Dec 30 Molly Hatchet Mar 14 K.C. & The Sunshine Band ASHEVILLE, NC Mar 16 Extreme Knoxville May 4 Tracy Lawrence EXPLOREASHEVILLE.COM ARENA Jun 6-9 Matt Rife Feb 16-18 Billy Strings BIJOU THEATRE Mar 6 Geoff Tate and BRIDGESTONE ARENA THE ORANGE PEEL Jan 23 Tool with Elder Adrian Vandenberg Jan 20 The Milk Carton Kids

JOHNSON CITY TN

GREENEVILLE TN

NASHVILLE TN

MARION, VA

KNOXVILLE TN

ASHEVILLE NC

Charlotte, NC

CHARLOTTE NC

SPECTRUM CENTER Jan 14 Nate Bargatze Jan 21 Tool with Elder Feb 22 Lauren Daigle Mar 8 Olivia Rodrigo Mar 10 Bryan Adams with Dave Stewart’s Eurythmics Songbook Mar 16 Eagles with Steely Dan May 10 Bad Bunny May 17 Tim McGraw OVENS AUDITORIUM Brad Williams Mar 1 Mar 13 Celtic Woman Mar 14 Legacy Reunion-Earth Wind & Fire Alumni Mar 22 Aaron Lewis Apr 26 The Piano Guys THE FILLMORE Feb 6 Static-X & Sevendust Feb 20 &21 Lany May 5 Queensryche PNC MUSIC PAVILION Apr 25 Needtobreathe May 14 Judas Priest and Sabaton Jun 5 Niall Horan Jun 26 Alanis Morissette, Joan Jett & Morgan Wade

CHEROKEE, NC

CHerokee, NC

HARRAH’S Jan 19 Styx Jan 27 Mike Epps Feb 16 Blackberry Smoke Feb 23 Little River Band Mar 22 Ministry and Gary Numan

GREENVILLE, SC

Greenville, Sc

BON SECOURS WELLNESS ARENA 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

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

23

A number of friends have asked me what my favorite movies of the year are. This was a record year for me in terms of going to the movie theater.

I love that. Movie theaters are great and I saw many wonderful new and revival screenings all over our region, even making the trek to Knoxville and Asheville for special screenings.

I didn’t see everything this year, so let that be a caveat before you read any further. The biggest example is I’ve yet to have seen “Oppenheimer” as I was holding out to catch it in 70mm, but then life got in the way of making plans to trek down to Nashville to catch such a screening. So with that in mind allow me to share with you some films and film-related things that make my list of year-end favorites.

wasn’t prepared to love it as much as I did, it’s only a shame it had a very short theatrical window before being dumped onto video-on-demand services. This charming holiday tale set in 1970 is about a grumpy teacher at a boarding school who is stuck supervising the students who have no home to go to over Christmas break.

With a great performance by Paul Giamatti and I hope gets a nominated turn by Da'Vine Joy Randolph, this is a must-see and might become a new seasonal tradition.

“Godzilla Minus One” — I was most happy and surprised to see this foreign language movie play at our local theater, and even more surprised to find it to be a truly impressive movie that covers topics such as war, PTSD, trauma, personal demons, while also “Asteroid City”— Wes Anderson’s having Godzilla in it. The film has done newest is hands down my favorite very well at our box office, and it’s a film of the year. “Asteroid City” was a little divisive between even Anderson’s great use of taking a well-established icon of cinema and using it as the biggest fans for doubling down on framework for a deeply moving story. his one-of-a-kind style. I loved it for that, I loved it for how weird, stylish, “Killers of The Flower Moon”— Martin and funny it was. To me, it felt like Anderson taking his stock brand of film and mixing it up with a 1950s Universal sci-fi movie. I left the theater feeling overwhelmingly delighted.

“The Holdovers”— This one really surprised me in the sense that I

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By Andy Ross theloaferonlineprint @gmail.com

Scorsese, who is hands down one of our greatest filmmakers and champion of movies (look up the work he has done through his Film Foundation), delivers another impressive work. A long movie, but one that never feels like it wastes the nearly four-hour run-time. It will be very wrong if Lilly Gladstone isn’t nominated for an Oscar.

“Barbie”— It’s hard to say no to “Barbie.” Director Greta Gerwig surprised everyone by delivering a movie based on a toy that had impressive themes, subversion, and downright one of the funniest movies I’ve watched in a theater in a very long time. A lot was said this year about how movies and movie theaters were back, and “Barbie” was at the center of many of those conversations.

"Stop Making Sense" — The 40thanniversary restoration and theatrical re-release of what is in my opinion the best concert film ever made was a truly incredible experience to see in

theaters. I've loved the movie since my 20s and to finally see it on the big screen looking the best it ever has, with a truly fantastic brand new surround sound re-mix of the music, is something I'll be thinking about for years to come.

Another favorite thing I must mention is that it was a great year for physical media, with the cherry on top being Shout Factory releasing my favorite movie, “Clue,” in a wonderful 4K blu-ray edition with bonus features, giving the beloved classic the longoverdue respect it deserves on home video, looking absolutely amazing to boot. They also get points for releasing on physical media last year’s extremely funny “Weird: The Al Yankovic Story.”

It was a good year for movies and a good year for home video. I hope you’ve had a chance to enjoy the theater this year and I hope you and yours have a wonderful 2024. See you next year.

theloafer.net | January 9, 2024

My Favorites of 2023