The Loafer 119

Strawberry Season is Here!

Volume 03 Issue 119 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 Contributing Staff Andy Ross

your week’s line-up

04 Spotlight

Kathie Scalf

05 Community Square Dance 06 Bootleggers and Burnouts 06 Beezwax 07 Tri-Cities Nightlife 08 Puzzle Page 09 Pets of the Week 11 Things To Do 12 Tri-Cities Faces and Places 14

Spring Sip and Shop

14

Biker Events

16 Ring of Fire Brings Life of Johnny Cash to the Stage 18 The Old Oak Festival at

Ken Silvers

Tusculum University

Wendy Hayden Ann Hartley

22 WQUT Concert Schedule

The Loafer Po Box 39 Telford, Tn 37690 423-930-7319 www.theloafer.net theloaferonlineprint@gmail.com All advertisements are accepted and published by the publisher upon the representation that the agency and/or advertiser is authorized to publish the entire contents and subject matter thereof. The agency and/or advertiser will indemnify and save the publisher harmless from any lossof expense resulting from claims or suits based upon contents of any advertisement, including claims or suits for defamation, libel, right of privacy, plagiarism, and copyright infringement.

Founder: Bill Williams

LBD

FAMILY MEDIA Let’s Get Social!

columns & reviews

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15 Beanz Biker Corner Stay Safe and Happy Riding!

17

Social Sentiments:

Create Your Social Media Branding 19 Tea Time with Appalachian Barbie:

Knowing Your Worth 21 Pop Life Dune Part 2 23 Batteries Not Included: A Laughing Reaction

NOTE

FROM THE

PUBLISHER Hello Friends!

I hope everyone has had a great month so far. Guess what time it is now…………………………………….

STRAWBERRT SEASON!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I can’t every begin to tell you how much I love these red juicy pieces of pleasure in my mouth! I have so many wonderful memories that include strawberries. I remember my Nannie taking me to pick berries from a farm but I ate more that I put in my basket.

She didn’t know whether to fuss or laugh at me. Her sister my Aunt Penny would pick me up and take me to her house where we would make a homemade strawberry cake every year and I really looked forward to that when May rolled around. When I had my own kids and grandkids I have tried to keep the Strawberry memories alive with them.

With that in mind we should all make plans to attend the Strawberry Festival in Unicoi on May 18th. You will find the details in this issue.

I know the school year is winding down and kids are itching to start their summer vacation. We have 2 kids in our house graduating so let the planning begin!

Thank you for your continued support of our little family paper! We love all of you!

Have a great week!

Love, Lisa Durbin Publisher

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April 29 - May 1, 2024 ETSU Martin Center

Presented by

ETSUMartinCenter.org

Spotlight

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Johnson City

Johnson City, TN

TUESDAY Apr 30th Old Time Jam 5:00pm at Yee-Haw Brewing Company Brim & Marci Leal 6:30pm at Rocks Wood Fired Pizza Chelsea Grin 7:30pm at Capone’s

Bristol, TN/VA Bristol TN/Va WEDNESDAY May 1st Roan Street Ramblers 7:00pm at Cascade Draft House

Mike Roberts 7:30pm at Lakeview Marina

Jason Lloyd 7:00pm at Lakeview Marina

Elizabethton, TN Elizabethton

SATURDAY May 4th

SATURDAY May 4th

Gypsy Moon Coalition 7:30pm at Marker 2 Grill @ Lakeview Marina

The Audacity 7:00pm at Jiggy Ray’s

FRIDAY May 3rd

Craig Street Ramblers 6:00pm at Bristol Casino Bar

Jeff Lane 6:30pm at Rocks Wood FIred Pizza

Victor Lawson and Boogie Chillen 9:30pm at Bristol Casino Bar

FRIDAY May 3rd

SUNDAY May 5th

HB Beverly 6:30pm at Rocks Wood Fired Pizza

FRIDAY May 3rd

Phillip Page 7:00pm at Cascade Draft House

No Filter 7:30pm at Lakeview Marina

Samantha Gray & The Jukebox Jam 7:00pm at Bonnie Kate Theater

Justin Mychaels 6:30pm at Rocks Wood FIred Pizza

The Jedi Mind Tricksters 6:00pm at Bristol Casino Bar

Broke N’ Busted South 9:00pm at CJ’s Sports Bar

The Double Barrel Band 9:00pm at CJ’s Sports Bar

Travis Reigh 7:00pm at Bristol Casino Bar

SATURDAY May 4th

THURSDAY May 2nd

Sarah Beth Bledsoe Lovell 7:00pmat Model City Tap House

THURSDAY May 2nd

Shoot to Thrill 9:30pm at Bristol Casino Bar

Chris Long and Jeff Lane 7:30pm at Model City Taphouse

Kingsport, TN

WEDNESDAY May 1st Rheva & Keegan’s Irish Fiddle Tunes 5:30pm at Mulligan’s Gaming Pub

THURSDAY May 2nd

Cody Kennedy 7:00pm at Cascade Draft House

Kingsport

Sam Collie and the Roustabouts 7:00pm at High Voltage,

FRIDAY May 3rd The Hired Guns 7:00pm at Jiggy Rays

Tumbling River Band 7:00pm at Tulips Grub & Pub The Kindest People | Jusfine 10:00pm at Capone’s SATURDAY May 4th Saddletramp 7:00pm at the Johnson City VFW Music Hall Tumbling River Band 10:00pm at Capone’s SUNDAY May 5th

MONDAY May 6th

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

Anthony Childress 7:00pm at Cascade Draft House

Sam Collie and the Roustabouts 7:00pm atHoly Taco Boones Creek

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

Annual Book Sale

Gray Branch Library May 3 -4

TUES. Apr. 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd & 30th

BRIM & MARCI LEAL WED. Apr. 3rd, 10th, 17th & 24th

HB BEVERLY

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

JUSTIN MYCHALS

HAPPY HOUR Visit Our Website for Daily Specials and Events

PIG OUT MENU Available for a Limited Time

The Friends of the Washington County Library are hosting a spring fundraising event – all proceeds go to support free library programs for all ages!

The sale is scheduled from May 3 – May 4 in the Gray Branch Library at 5026 Bobby Hicks Hwy, Gray, TN 37615.

The sale schedule is as follows:

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

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

Friday, May 3, 9 am – 6 pm

Saturday, May 4, 9 am – 2 pm We are still in need of volunteers for setup, sale hours, and breakdown! For more information, please visit the Gray Branch Library or call 423-477-1550.

You may also find information about the sale and volunteering to help with this event on our website: wclibrarytn.org.

ge!

Live on sta

Adapted for stage by David Birney Directed by Chris McVey

Saturday May 11 7:30 PM Saturday June 22 7:30 PM

Bring ! hair lawnc

Presented at

The Sessions Hotel

Lauderdale Stage and Lawn 833 State Street, Bristol, VA

TICKETS AT THE DOOR AND AT THEATREBRISTOL.ORG a Theatre Bristol

ARTScene Production

Follow ARTScene for Weekly Nights out

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WOOD FIRED PIZZA. BURGERS. DRINKS. & FUN.

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CELTIC TRIO TO PLAY JETTIE BAKER CENTER Featuring fiddle, button accordion, guitar, bodhran, bouzouki, flute, vocals, and dance, Poor Man’s Gambit brings an evening of Celtic music to the Jettie Baker Center in Clintwood at 7 p.m. on Saturday, May 4th. Tickets are $10 at the door. Children and students will be admitted free. This performance is sponsored in part by the Town of Clintwood and the Columbus Phipps Foundation, in conjunction with Pro-Art’s 47th season. For more information and to make reservations visit proartva.org.

Poor Man’s Gambit was formed in 2015 and hails from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The trio’s repertoire is rooted in Irish tradition, but they also pull from other provincial influences including England, Brittany, and Scotland, in addition to their own original compositions.

The trio is Deirdre Lockman (fiddle and vocals), Corey Purcell (button accordion, cittern, bodhran, vocals, and dance), and Joseph Carmichael (guitar, whistle, flute, and vocals). With two multi-instrumentalists in the lineup, the trio is noted for their ability to change instrumentation many times during a performance—and Purcell’s flashy footwork on the occasional reel adds an extra punch of energy to their shows.

Pro-Art’s 47th season is coming to a close.

Explore the remaining events and make reservations at proartva.org. Season tickets are valid for all performances of the 47th season and can be purchased online, in person at any show, or by calling (276) 376-4520.

Pro-Art partners with a variety of venues, therefore individuals with accessibility needs or general questions are encouraged to call (276) 376-4520 or email pro-art@uvawise. edu. For evolving conditions related to weather cancellations, or similar unforeseen circumstances, patrons are encouraged to check proartva.org for up-to-date information.

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

NIGHTLIFE

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

TRIVIA

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

BINGO

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

theloafer.net | April 30, 2024

TRI-CITIES

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SODOKU

CROSSWORD

DROP QUOTE

C RYPTO G RAM

ZB PUV QUM'W CIXL WCL WZHL WU JLIQ, PUV QUM'W CIXL WCL WZHL UJ WCL WUUAG WU KJZWL.

— Stephen King

ACROSS 1. "Correct me ____ wrong, but..."

5. Actress Winona 10. Prepared in advance, in productnames 14. Bullfighter's cloth 15. Taking offense 16. Makes angry 17. Beat around the bush 19. Barks like a fox 20. Erik of "CHiPs" 21. Brand of knife 22. Was a varsity standout 26. "Would I lie ___?"

30. Attacking from a concealed position 34. Give a commencement address, say 35. Pen parts 36. "___ blimey!"

37. Least cooked 39. Self-defense art

42. Pub offering 43. River of northeast England 47. Bash 48. Self-indulgent folks 51. Dueling pieces 52. Non-participant 54. Not colorized (abbr.)

57. Partners ____ 62. "Where the Sidewalk Ends" author Silverstein 63. Slandered 66. French noun suffix 67. Mayhem 68. Descartes's "therefore" 69. Dec. 25 70. Travelers in horse buggies 71. Sewing line

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

Down

1. Brain freeze trigger 2. Internet explanation pages 3. CCR's "____ a Spell on You" 4. Female Israeli leader 5. University of ___ Island 6. Peninsula state 7. Arts deg.

8. Young newt 9. Sandwich choice 10. Mideast capital 11. Lindros of the NHL 12. Part of U.S.D.A.: Abbr.

13. "And what ____ rare as a day in June?"

18. Esteems 21. Deletes, with "out" 23. "I've heard more than enough!"

24. Decrease 25. Former Secretary of State Dean 26. Religious parchment 27. Papal attire 28. Veered off course 29. Coy ending?

31. Compassionate words 32. "Buona ___" 33. ABC's "___ Anatomy" 38. Work hard 40. Brief outline 41. Bow Wow's genre 44. Support grp. for the troops 45. Pou ___ (vantage point) 46. Some Alaska natives 49. Enough and then some 50. Houston-to-Dallas dir.

53. Ancestor of Noah 54. Bingo square 55. Breaking-in sound 56. Italian river which joins the Tiber near Orte 58. Abbreviations on a map 59. Her, in Hamburg 60. Prefix with hertz 61. Land in Genesis 63. Food preservative (abbr.)

64. Pooh creator's initials 65. 506, once

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PETS

OF THE WEEK

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M is s M eo w Hey, it’s Miss Meow in the house! I’m a RARE orange QUEEN with a dash of sassyeah I’ve got personality! But this just adds to my charm… it doesn’t take long to realize how special I am. Deep down, I’m all about those sweet vibes. I love to play and enjoy catnip, treats and pets.

But mostly I just want a home and special

human to call my own. I would need to be your one and only kitty friend as is befitting for my queenly status. I’m spayed, fully loaded on vaccines and microchipped. If you think you’re ready to hold court with me, come by for a meet and greet and see if we are a royal match! Bday 10/15/19

There are Five Strawberries hidden in this issue of The Loafer.

Can you find them all?

Last Week's Puzzle Answers Crossword

Cryptogram:

Dropquote:

Le

Sudoku

o

Leo is a sweet, friendly, affectionate, loyal companion and a shelter favorite because of his desire to just be loved.

Though he has little interest in toys, he uses his energy to shadow his human as they go about their business, always

hoping for a butt scratch. He loves to lay in the sun, knows basic commands, loves to go on walks, and is great on a leash.

Leo is dog selective, no cats and is good with children. He has been neutered and current on vaccinations. Bday 9/30/18

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

"Democracy is the recurrent suspicion "A store of grain, Oh king is the that more than half of the people are right best of treasures. A gem put in your more than half the time." mouth will not support life"

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

Call for info Bill 423-444-6107 or Cheryl 423-262-6149

BRISTOL

SATURDAY MAY 4TH Summer Market 11:00am at Allandale Mansion Jonesborough Farmers THURSDAY MAY 2ND Market 8:00am Brunch 11:30am at Gypsy “Colorful Bouquet” Canvas at Downtown Jonesborough Circus Cider Company Class 6:00 PM at Kil'n Time Historic Jonesborough Contemporary Ceramics Country Roads Jeep Classic Town Tour 1:00pm 12:00pm At Public Parking Mark Normand 8:00pm at Chester Inn State Historic Site Lot located at Cherokee and at Blue Ridge Comedy Club Cumberland Streets ABINGDON, VA FRIDAY MAY 3RD Movies, Magic & Mayhem WEDNESDAY MAY 1ST “Funky Flower Pot” Canvas 2:00pm & 7:00pm Bingo 5:00pm at Abingdon at Renaissance Class 6:00 PM at Kil'n Time Arts Center Community Center Contemporary Ceramics Hunter Roberts (HunterMania) SUNDAY MAY 5TH FRIDAY MAY 3RD 7:30pm at Blue Ridge Mercantile Vendor Market 11:00am Movies for Adults 2:00pm Comedy Club at Kingsport Farmers Market at Washington County Brunch 11:30am at Gypsy Public Library SATURDAY MAY 4TH Circus Cider Company SUNDAY MAY 5TH Board Game Night 5:00pm JONESBOROUGH at Bristol Public Library Bingo 5:00pm at Abingdon Community Center TUESDAYS Venus Envy 7:30pm at Blue Ridge Comedy Club Jonesborough Storytelling Guild ELIZABETHTON “Stories n’More” Show 7:00pm at FRIDAY MAY 3RD KINGSPORT The Intl. Storytelling Center Bites by the Bridge 11:00am THURSDAY MAY 2ND WEDNESDAY MAY 1ST at Elizabethton Covered Bridge May Shop & Hop 5:00pm IBN Biz Lunch 11:30am First Friday: Summer Vibes at Downtown Kingsport at The Black Olive 5:00pm at Downtown Elizabethton FRIDAY MAY 3RD Movies, Magic & Mayhem 7:00pm at Renaissance Arts Center

WEDNESDAY MAY 1ST Biker Wear 10th Anniversary 7:00pm at Wild Wing THURSDAY MAY 2ND Tri-Cities Turtles Run Club 12:45pm at Yee-Haw Brewing Co. Spring Sip & Shop 4:00pm at Downtown Johnson CIty FRIDAY MAY 3RD Johnson City Love & Hiking Date For Couples (Self-Guided) 7:00am at Willow Springs Park SATURDAY MAY 4TH Johnson City Love & Hiking Date For Couples (Self-Guided) 7:00am at Willow Springs Park Johnson City Farmers Market 8:00am at the Pavilion in Downtown Johnson City Springtime in Haynesville: Civil War Reenactment 9:00am at SATURDAY MAY 4TH Tipton-Haynes State Historic Site Market Season Kick-Off 7:00am at Kingsport Farmers Market Little Black Dress Event 7:00pm at Holiday Inn Nature: Wolf Howling 10:00am at Bays Mountain Improv Jam 8:00pm at Wallace Theatre Park & Planetarium

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

theloafer.net | April 30, 2024

THINGS TO DO

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Bike Nights sponsored by biker wear Local Events: 1. Biker Wear 10th Anniversary May 1st at Wild Wing Café Starts at 6pm Below 7 live at 7pm 2. Music City Police Motorcycle Skills & Training Competition at Bristol Motor Speedway May 1st – 4th 3. Kicking For Kim Benefit Concert May 4th - 4pm - ???? at 19 E Pit Stop 4. Black Jacket Symphony at ETSU May 17th 5. Iris Festival Greeneville, TN May 18th & 19th 6. She Rides May 9th – 12th 7. 4th Annual Bugtussle Bash May 31st – June 1st

Bike Nights: Wednesday: 19E Pit Stop Elizabethton, TN Wednesday: Jonesborough VFW Thursday: Darrell Waltrip Bristol, VA Friday: Tulips Johnson City, TN

Rides: 1. Kicking for Kim Meet at 10:30am at Chaotic Crew Clubhouse KSU at 12 2. Puppy Poker Run May 11th

Bike Rallies: 1. Thunder Beach Spring Rally May1st – 5th Panama City 2. Route 66 Bike Stock May 2nd – 5th Depew, OK 3. Thunder in The Smokies May 3rd – 5th 4. Myrtle Beach Spring Rally May10th – 19th 5. Boozy Creek Drags May 10th - 12th at Boozy Creek 6. True Sons Pow Wow May 31st – June 2nd 7. Boone Bike Rally May 31st – June 2nd

Rides & Rallies

sponsored by biker wear

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Hello everyone, I truly hope and pray life is being kind to you and your families.

Times are sincerely challenging on all of us these days as we watch all the craziness that is happening around us.

The price of food is to the point where it’s hard to feed your family, gas prices are at an all-time high, major businesses are closing, and small businesses are being crashed. So, this week I am taking great honor in writing about a local small business that has hung in there and is still going strong. A local motorcycle shop. Biker Wear is located at 116 Buffalo Street downtown Johnson City, TN 37604. The business was started in the early 2000’s by Keith McCrary (who has now passed away) and was located at the Tri-Cities Flea Market it was all retail at that time then it moved to Piney Flats, remaining an all-retail store for all your biker needs. While still located in Piney Flats a really big man named Budha bought the business. So, on May 1st, 2014, Steve Crouch (better known as Budha) & his wife Tara, purchased the business. While in Piney Flats they kept it as just a retail store and did very well. In September of 2015 they moved the business to the old Ride Revolution building in North Johnson City across from the Harley dealership. While in this location they kept the retail side going, but to add to their business they started a full-service repair shop and parts department. Starting with a couple part time mechanics (Jay Hobbs & Clarence Ramey) in the evenings the service side

Beanz Biker Corner

By Anne Hartley 423-297-5675

kept growing and they had to hire more mechanics and another part-time person to help with retail. They hired a Certified Harley Davidson Mechanic to work on the Harley Davidson bikes and another mechanic to work on everything else. Joe, his part-time person passed away and in August of 2021, they hired me. Budha’s reputation was growing as an honest businessman with good moral, and as the business grew and life happens the building they were in was sold, and they were having to find a new location. Budha went in search of a new building. After weeks of looking, he and his wife Tara found the most perfect place nestled in downtown Johnson City. The move was on. We all slowly started packing up what we could while keeping the doors open. Budha and one of the guys started in March 2022 getting things ready at the new location. They spent their days working, pouring concrete, painting etc.… to get the new place ready. While the Harley mechanic ran the shop, and I ran the retail at our soon to be old location. Finally, the day came when we had no choice but to shut down for 1 week to make the final move. Stress levels were high to say the least, but we as a team made it happen and didn’t kill each other. Which was a feat in itself. We all spent that week packing, loading trucks and transporting everything to the new shop and putting everything into place. We all had our moments. We all shed blood, sweat, tears and a few choice words. On April 30th we went home to get a good night’s rest knowing that the next day May 1, 2022, we would open our doors to the public at the new shop. The new place was more like all of us. Old school motorcycle shop with a twist. We have grown even more since being here. The shop side is booming, and the retail is getting better. This May 1, 2024, marks 10 years of Biker Wear being in business. So, to celebrate we are having Biker Wear’s 10th Anniversary Party at Wild Wings Café in downtown Johnson City.

Starting at 6pm the party is on at 7pm Live music with Below 7, Food and beverage specials, giveaways, & more, free parking, no cover charge. Everyone at Biker Wear, Garza Law Firm and Wild Wings Café are going to make sure everyone has a blast.

Thank you for your continued support.

Come join us as we celebrate a local business and its owner’s Budha & Tara for making it 10 years. Just as a side note from me there are some days when Budha is a real ass, & I let him know by calling him “Asshole”!!!!

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

Useless Facts: 1. In 10 minutes, a hurricane releases more energy than all the world's nuclear weapons combined.

2. On average, people fear spiders more than they do death.

3. There are crabs that are the size of a pea. There are known as ‘Pea Crabs’.

4. Froot Loops loops are all the same flavor.

5. The Statue of Liberty used to be a lighthouse.

Full Moons of 2024 1. Pink Moon on Tuesday, April 23 - 7:51 pm 2. Flower Moon on Thursday, May 23 - 9:55 am 3. Strawberry Moon on Friday, June 21 - 9:10 pm 4. Buck Moon on Sunday, July 21 - 6:19 am 5. Sturgeon Moon on Monday, August 19 - 2:28 pm 6. Harvest Moon on Wednesday September 18 - 10:36 pm 7. Hunters Moon on Thursday October 17 -7:27 am 8. Beaver Moon on Friday November 15 - 4:29 pm 9. Cold Moon on Sunday December 15 - 4:02 am

theloafer.net | April 30, 2024

Beanz Biker Corner

Sponsored By Biker Wear

theloafer.net | April 30, 2024

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DAA East Tennessee Classic Car Auction Returns For 3rd Year Crumley House to Receive Proceeds from ‘01 Chevy Camaro SS Auction and Snap-On Toolbox Raffle In just two years, Dealers Auto Auction of Northeast Tennessee’s Classic Car Auction has generated more than $50,000 for The Crumley House Brain Injury Rehabilitation Center. That total stands to grow with the event’s return for a third year on May 10-11 in Johnson City.

“Our business and our annual Classic Car Auction continue to grow throughout the Appalachian Highlands and beyond,” said Gary Montgomery, DAA East Tennessee General Manager. “The first two years of this event have witnessed us auction off some incredible vehicles and we look forward to building on that success.”

and it’s equally important for us to have the opportunity to give back,” added Montgomery. “Once again we are proud to work with The Crumley House in this effort.”

The event, which is open to the public, begins with the Auction Preview Party on Friday, May 10 from 5-8 PM. With a combination of cars, live music, food and fun, the Preview Party has something for everyone. An array of the food trucks will serve up the eats and beverages, with Coaltown Revival providing the music.

Additionally, all in attendance can browse the 100-plus classic cars set to go up for bids the following day.

Saturday, May 11 is Auction Sale Day with gates opening at 8 AM and the auction Dealers Auto Auction of East Tennessee beginning at 10 AM. The Chevy Z-28 has once again chosen The Crumley House Camaro SS Charity Auction benefiting Brain Injury Rehabilitation Center as the The Crumley House takes place at 2 PM recipient of the proceeds from its Charity and also features the raffle drawing for Auction Car. This year, a 2001 Chevrolet a 95th Anniversary Snap-On Toolbox.

Z-28 Camaro SS rolls onto the auction Raffle tickets are being sold now and floor with 100 percent of its final sale going proceeds from the raffle also will benefit to the local non-profit organization.

The Crumley House. Admission is $10 and good for both days. Admission is free to “Yes, it’s certainly big for us to be able to dealers, individuals with a bidder badge as auction off the many vehicles we’ll have on hand, but we believe in our community well as children 12 and under.

Guynn Edwards, Crumley House Executive cars here in our region and I hope all Director, stated, “It’s an honor to once come out not only to support The Crumley again be selected as the recipient of the House, but to embrace the entire event proceeds from the auction. I know there are and make it a successful one for our area many enthusiasts and collectors of classic and all involved.”

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Is your social media engagement down? If so, you may be committing one of these cringe worthy fails.

Liking your own posts Liking your own posts is the most cringe worthy social media fail.

You share things you feel are funny, memorable, or valuable.

Sharing implies that you like the content, so liking your share is redundant. Focus on sharing the reason why you believe the content is worth viewing. Create a caption that tells a story about why you felt compelled to share that piece of content instead of liking it again on your own page.

Not tailoring content Do you sell office supplies?

Are you pushing office supply content to restaurants? Not understanding your audience will push people away who follow but would not benefit from your

Social Sentiments

By Wendy Hayden socialsentiments @outlook.com

socialsentiments.net

brand while ignoring people who could boost sales. Thoroughly research your target audience to ensure that you capture the attention of the audience that can benefit from what you have to say.

story can wait until the breaking news loses steam, your chances of being seen will significantly increase and your chances of being seen as insensitive to the current situation will decrease.

Grammar mistakes

Unprofessional tone

Grammar mistakes in posts are a major reason for a decrease in shares. Carefully review your content before posting to spot errors before your audience does.

Read them out loud to easily catch mistakes. Grammar issues undermine your message and focus attention on the mistakes instead of the message. Taking the time to review your post before submission will ensure that your message is received in a serious manner.

When a customer comes into your store or calls in, which type of language do you use? Most likely, you use a tone that puts your customers at ease and lets them know they are in good and knowledgeable hands. The same tone should be used online. Your brand reputation still exists even if customers cannot see who is behind your posts. Treat your online accounts as you would a customer standing in front of you.

Courtesy and professionalism go a long way in building a brand.

Ill - timed posts In a world where news is a constant cycle of sadness and fear, consider the timing of your posts compared to breaking news stories. If your

As you post online, keep in mind that if you would cringe at your post, others will as well.

theloafer.net | April 30, 2024

Cringe Worthy Social Media Mistakes

theloafer.net | April 30, 2024

18

Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park MAY 2024 EVENTS

Bird Walk with the Lee & Lois Herndon TOS Chapter Saturday, May 4 8:00 AM Free Admission: Meet in the Visitor Center parking area Meet other birders and naturalists at Sycamore Shoals for a morning of birding during the migratory season.

English Country Dancing Sunday, May 5 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM Free Admission: Meet in the Visitor Center Gathering Room Dancing was a very popular social pastime in early America. Beginners and seasoned dancers alike are all welcome to learn early 19th century dances. No cost to attend. Open to

anyone, with or without experience or era tactical demonstrations and a partner. Sponsored by the Sabine Hill numerous presentations of life on the Social Society. colonial frontier. Hear the rattle of Muster at Fort Watauga: An 18th muskets, smell the campfire smoke, Century Frontier Exhibition and see history come to life during Saturday, May 18 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM the Muster at Fort Watauga!

Sunday, May 19 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM Old Time Music Jam Free Admission Sunday, May 26 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM Experience the incredible story of Sycamore Shoals at the largest 18th Free Admission: Meet in the Visitor century living history event in the Center Gathering Room state! Join over 200 living history demonstrators, re-enactors, and Enjoy the rich musical traditions of heritage interpreters as they bring the our region each month. Old time 18th century frontier to life. Visit the musicians of all levels are welcome. military encampment, native camp Don’t play an instrument? Come on and Fort Watauga, shop with period over, kick back, and enjoy the tunes! vendors, enjoy Revolutionary War

Visitors Center Hours:

“Never Forget” Memorial Day Concert Monday, May 27 6:00 PM Free Admission: Presented in the Fort Watauga Amphitheater Join us on Memorial Day as The Johnson City Community Concert Band, under the direction of Dr. Christian Zembower, presents a special concert to remember and honor those who have paid the ultimate price for our freedom. In addition to the concert a special ceremony will recognize those throughout our nation’s history who have fallen in service to our country.

9:00 AM – 4:00 PM Monday through Saturday (closed 11:00 -12:00 for lunch & cleaning) 1:00 PM – 4:30 PM Sunday Our Visitors Center is closed on most State holidays. Park grounds are open from dawn until dusk.

In the event of extremely inclement winter weather, contact the park about program cancelations and park office closings.

1651 W. Elk Avenue- Elizabethton, TN 37643 423-543-5808 sycamoreshoalstn.wordpress.com • facebook.com/sycamoreshoals • tnstateparks.com/parks/sycamore-shoals • friendsofsycamoreshoals.org

19

I was recently talking with a friend who is going through some relationship issues; matters of which I tend to tread lightly. As they divulged some of the details of their discord, I found myself repeatedly stating, “you know you’re WORTH more than this.” The more I reiterated this short statement, the more they kept excusing and defending the other person’s behavior, and I suddenly realized that my friend did not in fact know they were worth more than what they were getting. And worst of all, I saw in them the same behavior I myself have routinely exhibited.

One of the most underrated skillsets as a human being is being able to find - and subsequently KNOW - your worth. Whether it’s in regards to relationships, job salaries, or simply personal standards, how does one “set their going rate?”

world. I’m speaking from experience on this matter as someone who struggles a great deal with imposter syndrome every single day. I never really knew what that phrase meant; I assumed it meant you were someone who constantly tried to “fake it til you make it” and were a con or something. It’s not that at all, and in the simplest definition, ‘imposter syndrome’ means you never feel like you deserve good things when you get them, that you’re a fraud for receiving them, or you’re not worthy.

A lot of my issues stem from growing up in the way I did and how that impacted the core person I am today; for that reason I don’t think I’ll ever fully conquer those demons.

While I grew up thankfully with two amazing, loving parents who did the best they could and worked hard to ensure I never wanted for a thing, financially I had less assets The worth of an item is only than my friends. I lived in a trailer; determined by the value assigned the first 6 years of my life in a trailer to it. I’ve never really thought about park, the rest on 3 acres of land in why items cost what they cost, but the country until I moved out to my as I’m writing this article I began considering why it is that 2 purses can own apartment. My parents held down multiple blue collar jobs to have the exact same functionality, keep us going, but there were times style, size, and features, but will I definitely remember payday hitting cost $9.99 at Walmart and $3,799 at on Friday and having $20 left on Gucci; more importantly, why is one Monday that would last the rest of so much more highly coveted? That is because someone, whether it’s the the week. I feel like I’ve lived my life designer, the media, or the consumer, in survival mode, from paycheck-topaycheck, navigating catastrophes have decided that the word ‘Gucci’ as they arise and never fully feeling carries more value than ‘Walmart.’ like I’m able to get ahead. I struggle Knowing that it truly is that simple, with seeing the progress I’ve made, that you only must believe with your whether it’s in my career or health or mind that something is valuable to make it so, why don’t we do the same whatever because I don’t know how to feel comfortable with or worthy thing to ourselves? of the wins; it’s a mindset of scarcity, People will put themselves through that the promotion, the weight loss, incredible agonies because they the move was a fluke and shouldn’t don’t see the value they add to the have happened to me so I don’t need to get too comfortable enjoying it because it won’t last.

There are times I look around the room when I’m eating in nice

restaurants or walking around my neighborhood and think, “this isn’t my life. I’m that girl in the trailer and I’m going to wake up and none of this is real.” Or when I’m doing a private presentation to a group of high end clients in one of their multi-million dollar homes and they’re all listening to what I have to say, I feel like a fraud, like they’re all staring at me and they know I don’t belong there. This same inner voice is what has led me to accept less in relationships, to pursue people who were less attractive, less successful, had smaller goals and ambitions than I wanted, simply because I felt someone of a higher caliber would see right through me and not want me, so why try? It’s the same voice that silenced me into accepting first offers on salaries without negotiation, because I never believed I was smart enough or added enough value to the company to deserve more.

Navigating the last few years on my own has helped me begin to see my own worth and enforce it.

On a personal level most recently by valuing my health as my most precious asset and treating it as such.

I’m worthy of nourishing foods and clean ingredients versus boxed cheap crap full of toxins and chemicals. I’m worthy of fresh air and exercising my body and enjoying every inch of freedom and mobility it affords me. After back-to-back life altering heartbreaks, I’ve stayed single since 2018, refusing to allow another human being that much control over my life again and knowing I’m worth more than being lied to, lied about, and deserve someone who will treat me at LEAST as good as I treat myself because it’s not asking too much.

I’ve put the work into building my career, learning as much as I can and becoming as much of an asset to the workforce as possible so when I climb those rungs on the ladder I have

by Kathie Scalf

ammo for salary negotiations. I know now that my work ethic is stronger than most, that I always rise to meet a challenge and that I deserve every penny I earn because I worked hard for it.

People can subconsciously see the value you’ve assigned to yourself. It’s the way you speak, the way you carry yourself, the things you accept; all those things are how you “set your going rate.” People will treat you with the same respect you treat yourself, so you must believe you’re a very rare, high-dollar item. Think of yourself as that one-of-a-kind Gucci bag and not the Walmart purse that’s been produced for mass consumption at the lowest dollar. Make a physical list of all your wins, the things you’ve done that were no small feat and review them regularly. It truly is as simple as believing you deserve these things to make other people start to see it too.

XO - Kathie

theloafer.net | April 30, 2024

Knowing Your Worth

theloafer.net | April 30, 2024 20

21

The new film "The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare" is based on the 2014 book "Churchill's Secret Warriors: The Explosive True Story of the Special Forces Desperadoes of WWII" by author Damien Lewis. Whew, we are dealing with some long titles here movie fans. The film, directed, co-written and co-produced

by Guy Ritchie ("Sherlock Holmes"), plays fast and loose with Operation Postmaster.

The aforementioned special operation was a off-the-books black-ops sabotage mission to disrupt Nazis' U-boat resupply operation on the island Fernando Po, an island off Central Africa, which was Spanish controlled. The film is set in late 1941, at the height of World War II, before the United States entered the war.

During this period the United Kingdom is having difficulties halting Nazi Germany's attempts to take over Europe, as London is suffering regular bombing attacks and the UK's supply and aid ships are being constantly sunk by German

Pop Life

By Ken Silvers theloaferonlineprint @gmail.com

submarines. Brigadier Gubbins (Cary Elwes), also known as "M", is ordered by Churchill to prepare Operation Postmaster, and keep the mission offthe-books. The team is put together and includes Gus March-Phillips (Henry Cavill), Anders Lassen (Alan Ritchson), Freddy Alvarez (Henry Golding) and Henry Hayes (Hero Fiennes Tiffin). Two recruits, Majorie Stewart (Elza Gonzalesz) and Mr. Heron (Babs Olusanmokun) are sent ahead by train, with the others departing for Fernando Po on the Danish fishing trawler "Maid of Honor." Marjorie and Mr. Heron encounter Nazis on the train, but deal with them effectively, and arrive at the island before Gus and his crew, who have their own encounter with a ship of Nazis.The mission also includes rescuing Appleyard, who has been captured by the Nazis, and his rescue is quite explosive in several ways.

Once all are on the island, the plan begins to unfold, but not without the villain of the film, the very nasty Nazi Heinrich Luhrx (Til Schweiger), causing all manner of problems. Gus and his crew carry out their mission, but not without a few twists and turns along the way.

Each of the crew have their own special talents, which they use to perfection on the secret mission. I will not say how the story ends, other than to say the crew is victorious, which should come as no surprise. As for the actors, Cavill is having a blast in the role, and despite being "out muscled" by co-star

Lassen, steals the film with his frequent laughter, presence, and witty remarks. I know Cavill, and I'm sure the rest of the cast has a blast making this film, which is described as a spy/action comedy, and this film lives up to said description. As I mentioned earlier, the filmmakers take many liberties with the subject matter, and it is definitely a Guy Ritchie film, so expect lots of blood to spill. The film also features Ian Fleming (Freddie Fox), who used Operation Postmaster as the inspiration

for his James Bond novels.

The real-life gentlemen who are the subject of this mission and film, are shown just before the closing credits, and we see what happened to the brave men and the courageous lady Stewart. Overall, "The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare" is extremely entertaining, and led by the wonderful cast, is a must-see film for fans of director Ritchie, Cavill, and war films with a twist. (Rated R)

theloafer.net | April 30, 2024

The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare

theloafer.net | April 30, 2024

22

P

CONCERT SCHEDULE Bristol

BRISTOL TN/VA

PARAMOUNT Jun 1 Mac McAnally (sold out) Jun 20 Steve Earle July 18 The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus Aug 17 Ozark Mountain Daredevils Sep 28 Dusty Slay (two shows) Oct 4 Destination Soultown featuring the Sensational Soul Cruisers COUNTRY THUNDER MUSIC FESTIVAL Jun 28-29 Cody Johnson, Hardy, Bailey Zimmerman, Lonestar, Trace Adkins, Priscilla Block, Shenandoah, Travis Denning, Jake Worthington, Josh Ross, Emily Ann Roberts.

IN THE PINES Jun 1 Dwight Yoakam, Elle King, Paul Cauthen and Wyatt Flores BRISTOL RHYTHM & ROOTS REUNION Sep 13-15 Ashley McBryde, The Wallflowers, The Red Clay Strays, Sam Bush, Molly Tuttle & Golden Highway, The Steeldrivers, 49 Winchester and more.

JOHNSON CITY TN

JOHNSON CITY

MARTIN CENTER FOR THE ARTS May 17 Black Jacket Symphony will perform Purple Rain From Prince Aug 17 The Concert: A Tribute to ABBA FREEDOM HALL May 16 Breaking Benjamin & Daughtry Aug 16 Jamey Johnson Oct 20 Whiskey Myers

GATLINBURG TN

GSTLINBURG

THE MOUNTAIN MUSIC FESTIVAL Aug 23-25 Joan Jett, Tesla, Night Ranger, Foghat, Aldo Nova, Slaughter, Quiet Riot, Lynch Mob, Great White, Dangerous Toys, Vixen and many more.

KINGSPORT TN

Kingsport

RED WHITE AND BOOM Jul 6 The Marshall Tucker Band and The Cleverlys

FUN FEST AT J. FRED JOHNSON STADIUM Jul 25 Crowder Jul 26 Tyler Hubbard, Emily Ann Roberts & Carson Peters Jul 27 Goo Goo Dolls with Phillip Phillips

GREENEVILLE TN

GREENVILLE

NISWONGER PERFORMING ARTS CENTER May 4 Anthem Lights May 10 John Anderson Acoustic May 14 Brothers of the Heart

MARION, VA

MARION VA

THE LINCOLN THEATRE May 4 Junior Brown with Rick Monroe and the Hitmen May 11 Presley Barker with Jim Lloyd & J.A.M. Jun 1 Sam Bush with Jeff Parker & Co. Jun 15 Mark Lowry & Friends with Endless Highway and The Sound Jun 21 Zach Rushing with Cletus T. Judd Jun 22 The Piano Men Tribute to Billy Joel & Elton John Aug 24 Landslide: A Tribute to Fleetwood Mac Oct 19 & 20 Gene Watson Nov 8 Killer Beaz Nov 16 Rhonda Vincent & The Rage Knoxville

KNOXVILLE TN

BIJOU THEATRE May 11 Blind Boys of Alabama May 19 Patty Griffin May 31 Steep Canyon Rangers Jun 14 Kevin Smith Jun 21 Lucinda Williams Jul 13 Rob Schneider Jul 14 Tab Benoit & Anders Osborne Aug 9 Sister Hazel Aug 16 Kimberly Perry & Tanner Adell Oct 26 Henry Cho TENNESSEE THEATRE May 19 Nitty Gritty Dirt Band May 21 In This Moment, Kim Dracula, I See Stars, Mike’s Dead Jun 8 Brad Williams

THOMPSON BOWLING ARENA May 9 & 10 Zach Bryan May 23 Lionel Richie with Earth Wind & Fire July 14 The Doobie Brothers with Robert Cray Aug 24 Heart and Cheap Trick Sept 12 Hootie and the Blowfish with Collective Soul and Edwin McCain Oct 5 Aerosmith and The Black Crowes Oct 25 Jelly Roll Oct 27 Black Keys with The Head and The Heart Nov 19 Justin Timberlake KNOXVILLE CIVIC AUDITORIUM: Jun 12 Josh Gates Jun 13 Matt Rife Oct 10 Air Supply Oct 26 Dusty Slay KNOXVILLE CIVIC COLISEUM: May 11 Kevin Gates July 25 Jordan Davis

NASHVILLE TN

Nashville

RYMAN AUDITORIUM May 4 Tracy Lawrence May 8 Marshall Tucker Band May 10 & 11 Amy Grant May 12 Devo May 14 Sum 41 with The Interrupters May 16 The Steeldrivers May 20 Todd Rundgren May 31-Jun 1 Jim Gaffigan Jun 6-9 Matt Rife Jun 13 The Del McCoury Band Jun 21 & 22 Blackberry Smoke Jun 30 The Alan Parsons Live Project Jul 10 Dave Barnes Jul 17 Asia Jul 20 Scott Bradlee’s Postmodern Jukebox Jul 24 Jon Anderson & The Band Geeks with special guests The Return o Emerson, Lake & Palmer Jul 25 Ricky Scaggs & Kentucky Thunder Jul 29 Donnie Osmond Aug 9 America

Aug 16 Aug18

Ozark Mountain Daredevils Joe Bonamassa

BRIDGESTONE ARENA May 11 Bad Bunny May 14 Stevie Nicks May 24 & 25 Noah Kahan Jun 3 Niall Horan Jun 2 James Taylor Jun 14 Luis Miguel Jun 23 Alanis Morissette, Joan Jett & Morgan Wade Jul 27 Hootie and the Blowfish with Collective Soul and Edwin McCain Aug 6 Future & Metro Bloomin Aug 9 & 10 Chris Stapleton Aug 14 Five Finger Death Punch with Marilyn Manson and Slaughter To Prevail Aug 20 Earth Wind & Fire with Chicago Aug 27 Glass Animals Aug 28 Sammy Hagar and Loverboy BROOKLYN BOWL May 16 Mammoth WVH May 21 Dark Star Orchestra June 16 Kings X Aug 6 10CC NASHVILLE MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM Aug 9 Bush with Jerry Cantrell and Candlebox Sep 28 Megadeth with Mudvayne and All That Remains ASCEND AMPHITHEATRE May 18 Billy Currington & Kip Moore May 31 & Jun 1 Lainey Wilson Jun 2 Pixies & Modest Mouse Jun 6-8 2024 CMA Fest Jun 22 Cypress Hill Jun 29 Sarah McLachlan Jul 12 Styx, Foreigner and John Waite Jul 13 Lake Street Dive Aug 2 Boys II Men Aug 3 Thirty Seconds to Mars Aug 6 Tate McRae Aug 13 Creed with Tonic and Finger Eleven Aug 20 Wallows Aug 31 King Gizzard & the Lizard Wizard d

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

23

I’m a simple man. Well, not really, but in my head I like to think that I am. Sometimes all I want on a Saturday night is to sit quietly and enjoy a movie on TV. Either something that’s airing on Turner Classic Movies, or whatever fun horror movie beloved host Svengoolie might have lined up. Last Saturday night there was a double feature of movies on TCM hosted and picked by Martin Scorsese.

from behind me, sounding like it was outside the house on the street.

Again, I didn’t think much of this.

Then when the sound happened again, and then again with family quick succession, Lucy perked up and looked in the direction of the sound.

This is when I became concerned.

If the sound was enough to disturb my cat, that meant it was time to investigate. I got up and went towards the door to my garage, the The first part of the double feature that night was “Blood on the Moon,” sound kept happening repeatedly, it sounded louder too. I began to a 1948 Western starring Robert Mitchum with Noir overtones. I had wonder if there was a crash, or an explosion, or what? I went upstairs always heard good things about to look out the bay window in my it and decided to tune in. Being kitchen. There was one more thud as something of a B-movie, it was short, running at a zippy 88 minutes. I reached the top of the stairs, but as I looked out towards the street the I was watching it downstairs in my movie room. I was in my cozy, trusty recliner. My precious and adorable cat, Lucy, was happily curled up in the armchair across from me.

I was halfway into the movie when I heard a thud. I wasn’t sure what it was. I didn’t know if something fell, if it was a car passing by, or some other random thing. I didn’t think much of this thud. Then it happened again, and I could tell it was coming

Batteries Not Included

By Andy Ross theloaferonlineprint @gmail.com

sound had stopped.

I looked out and didn’t see anything. This led to more confusion. It was still outside and it looked like any other average night on my block. The thud was no more, there was no traffic, no people scurrying about. I walked to the other end of the house where there was a window to look out into the backyard. That was when I noticed something.

The motion light near the trashcans was on, and sure enough, my trashcan was overturned in the backyard. Moved an impressive six feet or so from where it usually is. The trash had been collected recently, so thankfully there was only one bag in it. That bag,

however, was strewn out in the yard. “Uh, oh. A bear!” I thought to myself.

I debated going out to get the trash can and bag back to where they were, which might have been stupid. Sure enough, the next day my neighbor posted on Facebook that they had caught a bear going through the garbage on their house camera. So yes, kids, we had a bear.

The trash can was placed back in its right spot later on, and I managed to not get mangled. Despite living in a mostly residential area, it is impressive just how much wildlife comes out of the nearby forest area for a visit now and then. As long as I don’t meet them personally, I’m OK with it. See you next week.

theloafer.net | April 30, 2024

The Thud