The Loafer 126

July is National Picnic Month

NOTE

Volume 03 Issue 126 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 Ken Silvers

05 WKMA: The Virginia Highlands Festival 06 Beezwax 07 Tri-Cities Nightlife 08 Puzzle Page 09 Pets of the Week 10

Watuaga Brewing Company Hosts Rooftop Yoga Event

11 Things To Do 12 Tri-Cities Faces and Places 14 New City of Johnson City Website Goes Live 14

Biker Events

16 Barter Theatre Offers SensoryFriendly Performances to Enhance Inclusivity

Ann Hartley

with Virginia State Folklorist Katy Clune

The Loafer

20 Sycamore Shoals July Events 22 WQUT Concert Schedule

Po Box 39 423-930-7319

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!

Hello Friends!

Go out to eat! This time I am not just talking about restaurants……….Go on a picnic! I know the weather has been too hot lately but you can find a nice shady spot by some water to enjoy some yummy picynic foods. This is a great way to soend quality time with yout family.

How is your Summer so far? Are you keeping cool and hydrated? You can cool off in a local pool or waterslide. Whatever you do drink that water.

Have a great week!

Have a great week!

Love,

Lisa Durbin

Publisher

Telford, Tn 37690

www.theloafer.net theloaferonlineprint@gmail.com

FROM THE PUBLISHER

06 Flack Attack!

18 Introduction to Oral History

Wendy Hayden

columns & reviews

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15 Beanz Biker Corner The Blue Plum 17

Social Sentiments:

Mixing Business and Pleasure 19 Tea Time with Appalachian Barbie:

Home Cooked Wine Pairings 21 Pop Life Wonka 23 Batteries Not Included: Blue Velvet

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AUGUST 23, 2024 • 6:00 PM ETSU MARTIN CENTER Be the first to know which captivating Broadway shows will be a part of our season lineup!

Hors d'oeuvres and a cash bar will be available.

Tickets on sale at ETSUMartinCenter.org

theloafer.net | July 9th, 2024

2025 SPRING SEASON

Spotlight

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Below 7 10:00pm at O’Mainnin’s Pub MONDAY July 15th Anthony Childress 7:00pm at Cascade Draft House

Bristol, TN/VA Bristol TN/Va WEDNESDAY July 10th Mark Larkins 7:00pm at Cascade Draft House THURSDAY July 11th Momma Molasses 7:00pm at Bristol Casino Bar Sounds of Summer: From the Edge 7:00pm at Downtown Center FRIDAY July 12th The Great Big Hug 7:00pm at Bristol Casino Bar Jason Brown 7:00pm at Cascade Draft House Mack Partain 8:00pm at The Corner Dan Herrell & the Troubadours 10:00pm at Bristol Casino Bar Dallas Danger 10:00pm at O’Mainnin’s Pub SATURDAY July 13th Coal Camp 7:00pm at Bristol Casino Bar Brandon Scott (Son of an Outlaw) 7:00pm at Cascade Draft House Alli Epperson 8:00pm at The Corner Sydney Mack 10:00pm at Bristol Casino Bar

TUESDAY July 16th Sounds of Summer: Hollow Ground 7:00pm at Downtown Center Johnson City WEDNESDAY July 10th Rheva & Keegan’s Irish Fiddle Tunes 5:30pm at Mulligan’s Gaming Pub HB Beverly 6:30pm at Rocks Wood Fired Pizza Drowning Pool w/Seppuku & Below 7 | 7:30pm at Capone’s

SUNDAY July 14th Rheva & Keegan’s Irish Fiddle Tunes 5:30pm at Mulligan’s Gaming Pub

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

TUESDAY July 15th

SUNDAY July 14th

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

Jason Lloyd 7:00pm at Lakeview Marina

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

Elizabethton

Kingsport

SATURDAY July 13th

THURSDAY July 11th

From The Edge Band 7:00pm at Elizabethton Covered Bridge

Seth McKay & The Moonshine Rivals 7:00pm at Lakeview Marina

Some Old Friends 8:00pm at Jiggy Ray’s

FRIDAY July 12th

Abingdon, VA

Midnight Gypsys 7:00pm at Lakeview Marina

FRIDAY July 12th

Justin Mychaels 6:30pm at Rocks Wood FIred Pizza

Housewarmer 7:00pm at Gypsy Circus Cider Company Justin Mychals Music 7:00pm at Model City Tap House

Maygen & The Birdwatcher 7:00pm at The Down Home

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

FRIDAY July 12th

SATURDAY July 13th

Jeff Lane 6:30pm at Rocks Wood FIred Pizza

Strangers When We Meet 7:00pm at Model City Tap House

THURSDAY July 11th

AllSkate 7:00pm at Gypsy Circus Cider Company

Gents & Liars 6:00pm at Abingdon Vineyards SATURDAY July 13th Gents & Liars 6:00pm at Abingdon Vineyards SUNDAY July 14th Josh Bowles, Tom Zeske III and Special Guests 2:00pm at Abingdon Vineyards

Asylum Suite 8:00pm at Tulip’s Grub & Pub The Half that Matters | Civil Strife | Skewer Rat 10:00pm at Capone’s SATURDAY July 13th Salty Moon Dogs Band 9:00pm at Tulip”s Grub & Pub Radio City Renegades | Luke Robbins | Eye Candy 10:00pm at Capone’s

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

Coming to William King Museum of Art in Abingdon, VA June 27, 2024 - January 5, 2024. 75 years ago, Robert Porterfield began a cultural experience unparalleled to our region. The Virginia Highlands Festival has continued to grow in size and scope to become a destination for tourists and a beloved regional, cultural resource for the arts, history, and culture of Southwest Virginia.

by the Virginia Highlands Festival, art workshops with Anna Buchanan will be located in the Red Table Room on the bottom floor of WKMA. To register for a class, please do so online at vahighlandsfestival.com/juried.

Painting with Watercolor: An Approach to Cubism.

Tuesday July 30th from 2-4pm.

This class will discuss the fundamentals “The Virginia Highlands Festival of the of art and design using watercolor Arts and Crafts” (as it was first called) techniques and go over a bit of history began as a dream of Robert Porterfield, about abstract and cubist movements who founded Barter Theatre in 1933.

- all the while creating a masterpiece of He joined with various organizations in your own! Cost: $20 - Supplies will be Abingdon “to establish in the Highlands a center for the arts.” From its beginnings provided. Open to all ages.

How to Make a Panel: the programming was always dual: A Cost Effective Approach to Framing to bring arts activities and lecturers Thursday, August 1, 2-4pm to Abingdon as well as celebrating Appalachian folk traditions.

In this workshop, participants will learn Exhibit Accompanied Classes: Provided

how to create and prepare a wooden

Turkish Dancers, Virginia Highlands Festival 1994 panel, thus providing the artist with a solid surface that maintains the integrity of the paper, or ground, while offering the artist a gallery quality, cost-effective alternative to framing their artwork.

the communication arts. As part of our Veterans Art and Design program, we offer special discounts for veterans for Adobe training, contact Alice at asalyer@ wkmuseum. org for more information.

Whether you plan on creating your own wooden panels in the future, or purchasing them from regional suppliers, it is important that the artist knows how to properly adhere paper to panel in an archival fashion that does not damage their work. Cost: $30 - Supplies will be provided.

Open to ages H.S. and up.

Adobe Intro’s begin August 2023.

“New to digital art & design? Get a taste of Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, After Effects or Premiere Pro in one of our introductory classes! Perfect for beginners or anyone interested in a refresher, our Intro classes cover the basic interface, tools and common tasks in the programs.” Adobe Intro’s include After Effects, Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign, and Premiere Pro.

Art Lab Announces New Workshops for Fall 2023 Do more of what you love! Art Lab at William King Museum of Art in Abingdon VA, announces new art and design classes.

Available for both teens and adults, classes for Fall 2023 include special topics and digital media.

Registration is open at williamkingmuseum.org/learn or by calling 276-628-5005.

Adobe Bootcamp training workshops begin in September 2023. Register early to take advantage on Adobe Bootcamp training sessions. Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, After Effects and Premiere Pro are industry standard tools for creative professionals worldwide.

Balloons in reflection, Virginia Highlands Festival, 1993

Art Lab’s Adobe training sessions provide a technical foundation for future graphics experts, art students, and professionals interested in increasing their skill set. They are ideal for adults considering career change or expansion as well as students in

Special topics begin July 2023. Special topics include Laser Cut Pendants, Old Photo Retouching, Laser Etched Pendants, Scary Stickers, Laser Cut Ornaments, and Folded Paper Ornaments.

Do more of what you love with Art Lab at William King Museum of Art! Register for classes at williamkingmuseum.org/ learn. For additional information contact Alice Salyer, Digital Lab Manager, at asalyer@wkmuseum.org or call 276-628-5005.

theloafer.net | July 9th, 2024

The Virginia Highlands Festival: Celebrating 75 Years of Appalachia

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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 | July 9th, 2024

TRI-CITIES

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SODOKU

CROSSWORD

DROP QUOTE

C RYPTO G RAM NZP WIYP WJU WPRTNJNPL QVIU FIIR NZIQFZNL, NZP KPNNPY OTDD KP ZTL OIYDR JUR NZP OIYDR JN DJYFP. — Confucius

ACROSS 1. William of Hopalong Cassidy fame 5. Unfamiliar with 10. Profit's opposite 14. Home furnishings chain 15. Turgenev heroine 16. Passage out 17. Part of CD-ROM 18. Greek salad ingredient 20. Eve's youngest 21. Home healthcare worker (abbr.)

22. Rutabaga, for one 23. " ___ Was a Lady" (1930s tune) 25. Publicize 26. High-____ (on edge) 28. Special praise 33. "The Thin Man" co-star 34. Empire, to Germans 36. U.S.-Canada mil. acronym 37. Brought into play

39. Come in 41. 1,901, to Caesar 42. "Totally cool!"

44. Flogged 46. Cooperstown bldg.

47. "Oh, Lady, Be Good" writer 49. Like some sheets 51. Texas school initials 52. Kind of friend 53. Account of events 57. Saloon 58. Mae of film 61. Teenager 63. Dame of comedy 64. Like much fine wine 65. Legally old enough 66. Shakespearean king 67. Storage unit 68. One who roams about 69. Fort Bliss VIP

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

Down 1. Auction offers 2. Tom Joad, for example 3. Time not long past 4. Infamous site near Munich 5. Nightgown 6. Marry in a hurry 7. Accustom to solid food, e.g.

8. Tiny colonist 9. Maneuver 10. Lascivious look 11. Plow-pullers 12. Acapulco affirmative 13. Short distance 19. Another name for the Wyandot 24. Patient request (abbr.)

25. Was sore 26. Threw 27. "The better ____ you with, my dear!"

28. Be a part of, as a play 29. Herbert of the "Pink Panther" movies 30. Early calculator of pi 31. Pythias's pal 32. Impart knowledge to 35. "I didn't know he had it ___!"

38. The shakes (abbr.)

40. Turned (to) 43. Frequent site for flight layovers 45. "___ Rheingold" (Wagner opera) 48. Golfer Tom 50. Bathroom hangers 52. "___ Gong (Get It On)" 53. Broccoli ___ 54. Innovative and daring 55. Keats, for one 56. Like some shoppes 57. Ceiling support 59. Stumbling block 60. Sour 62. Corp. exec

theloafer.net | July 9th, 2024

PETS

OF THE WEEK

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LI A M Liam is a beautiful 4 yr old long needs to be the only fur baby in haired BIG boy. He is a 13.8 lb the house since we have been gentle soul and takes a bit to told he doesn’t really get along warm up, but when he does, well with other animals. He he’s a very loving kitty who just wants a home and human of his has been neutered, current on very own. He LOVES treats and vaccinations and microchipped. enjoys watching cat TV. Liam Bday 11/28/19

There are 5 Summer Picnics hidden in this issue of The Loafer.

Can you find them all?

Last Week's Puzzle Answers

FR

Crossword

Cryptogram:

Dropquote:

"There are two times in a man's life when he should not speculate - when he can't afford it, and when he can.."

"I never travel without my diary.

One should always have something sensational to read in the train."

A

Sudoku

N K IE Frankie is a 2 yr old female German good with kids age 12 and up and Shepard/Husky mix with gorgeous probably no cats. Frankie weighs blue eyes and look at those ears!!!

38 lbs, current on vaccines, spayed She loves to go on walks and is and microchipped. Come and good on a leash, pretty much house trained, is dog selective, meet this beautiful girl !!!

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 | July 9th, 2024

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Watauga Brewing Company Hosts Rooftop Yoga Event with Soluna Sage Watauga Brewing Company will host a complimentary morning yoga class in collaboration with Soluna Sage on Saturday, July 13th. The event will be held on the 3rd floor of the Basque Rooftop Bar, located at 142 W Market St, Johnson City, TN, from 10:00am to 11:00am EDT. Led by yoga instructor Ally McElroy, the session promises smooth transitions, foundational poses, and an uplifting playlist suitable for all experience levels. Attendees can unwind and enjoy post-session perks including $5 Mimosas and giveaways from Soluna Sage and Watauga Brewing Company.

“It’s a wonderful opportunity to relax, connect with others, and s tart the weekend on a positive note,” said the Watauga Brewing Company Team.

Participants are encouraged to bring their own yoga mats and water.

Space is limited, so early registration is recommended. To reserve a spot, contact: 423-631-5150 Event Details: Date: Saturday, July 13th Time: 10:00am - 11:00am EDT Location: Basque Rooftop Bar, 142 W Market St, Johnson City, TN 37604, 3rd Floor Watauga Brewing Company is a leading presence in Johnson City’s craft brewing scene, renowned for its innovative brews and communityfocused ethos. Follow their updates on Facebook and Instagram.

For more information, contact: Watauga Brewing Company 142 W. Market Street Johnson City 423-631-5150

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

Call for info Bill 423-444-6107 or Cheryl 423-262-6149 THURSDAY JULY 11TH Tri-Cities Turtles Run Club 12:45pm at Yee-Haw Brewing Co. IBN Evening Social 5:30pm at Tennessee Hills Brewstillery FRIDAY JULY 12TH Johnson City Love & Hiking Date For Couples (Self-Guided) 7:00am at Willow Springs Park SATURDAY JULY 13TH 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 Boomtown Improv!

8:00pm at Wallace Theatre

“Bubbly Jellyfish” Canvas Class Historic Jonesborough SUNDAY JULY 14TH 6:00 PM at Kil'n Time Town Tour 1:00pm at Chester Inn Bingo 5:00pm at Abingdon Contemporary Ceramics State Historic Site The Clean Comedy Show 7:30pm Community Center FRIDAY JULY 12TH at The Intl. Storytelling Center “Windy Field” Canvas ELIZABETHTON Class 6:00 PM at Kil'n Time ABINGDON, VA WEDNESDAY JULY 10TH Contemporary Ceramics WEDNESDAY JULY 10TH SATURDAY JULY 13TH IBN Biz Lunch 11:30am Game Night 5:00pm Ribbon Cutting Celebration at Abingdon Commons at Applebee's 11:00am at Kids on State Bingo 5:00pm at Abingdon BLUFF CITY Board Game Night 5:00pm Community Center at Bristol Public Library FRIDAY JULY 12TH SATURDAY JULY 13TH KINGSPORT Movies for Adults 2:00pm Bluff City Farmers Market at Washington County FRIDAY JULY 12TH 9:00pm at Bluff City Ball Field Public Library Disney After Dark Live 7:30pm at Renaissance Arts Center & Theatre SATURDAY JULY 13TH Farmer's Market 7:00am at Kingsport Farmers Market Nature: Wolf Howling 10:00am at Bays Mountain Park & Planetarium Brunch 11:30am at Gypsy Circus Cider Company

BRISTOL

JONESBOROUGH

WEDNESDAY JULY 10TH Bristol Bloom Collective | All Local Flower Market 9:00am at West State Studio

TUESDAYS Jonesborough Storytelling Guild “Stories n’More” Show 7:00pm at The Intl. Storytelling Center SATURDAY JULY 13TH Jonesborough Farmers Market 8:00am at Downtown Jonesborough

THURSDAY JULY 11TH Weekly Trunk Show 5:00pm at LUMAC Rooftop Bar

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

theloafer.net | July 9th, 2024

THINGS TO DO

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New City of Johnson City Website Goes Live The City of Johnson City is pleased to announce that its new, more userfriendly website is now live. A fresh design, enhanced content and concise organization make www.johnsoncitytn.org more intuitive than previous versions.

“Our world relies heavily on technology, and we recognized the need for a complete redesign to make the site a central element of our communications strategy,” said Digital Communications Manager JT McSpadden. “We listened to our citizens’ “In an effort to enhance communication requests for a more user-friendly website, with our citizens, the Communications and we responded with an easier-toand Marketing Department has launched a navigate platform.” new and improved website. This platform is designed to offer information in a Please be aware that search results might straightforward, logical, and user-friendly temporarily show information from the manner,” stated Public Affairs Director old website. This will continue until Keisha Shoun. “Our goal is for all visitors Google indexes all the new webpages, to easily find the information they need which typically takes a week or more. We within just a few clicks.” also recommend that visitors clear their The previous website, built in 2019, browser history to ensure they see the featured functionalities that were suitable most up-to-date version of the site. for that period and aligned with how users interacted with technology then.

McSpadden and Ally Burgner, However, times have changed, and now, communications specialist, spearheaded over 90 percent of the population uses the project through multiple rounds mobile devices for conducting business. of revisions and oversaw all aspects of For mobile users, improved functionality relaunch. They will continue to develop the was key to the redesign. Beyond its new site moving forward. To submit comments, desktop and mobile design, features feedback and ideas, email: include: Improved accessibility tools, webmaster@johnsoncitytn.org.

Citizen Request Form, and About JC tab.

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

HB BEVERLY

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

JUSTIN MYCHALS

HAPPY HOUR Visit Our Website for Daily Specials and Events

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

Local Events: 1. Thunder Valley National Drags June 7th – 9th 2. Blue Plum Festival downtown Johnson City, TN June 7th – 9th 3. Twilight Alive June 14th Kingsport, TN 7pm 4. Bike, Car Truck Show at Black Wolf June 15th 5. 3rd Annual Fiddler’s Convention June 21st – 23rd Washington County VA Fairgrounds 6. Twilight Alive June 21st Kingsport, TN 7pm 7. Twilight Alive June 28th Kingsport, TN 8. Country Thunder at Bristol Motor Speedway June 28th & 29th 9. Hillbilly & Vet Pre-Party and Bike show 3pm -7pm July 20th at Wild Wings Café 10. Hillbilly & Vets Show & Shine July 26th – 27th

Bike Nights: Wednesday: 19E Pit Stop Wednesday: Jonesborough VFW Thursday: Darrell Waltrip Thursday: Old Town Tavern Friday: Tulips June 22nd Biker Wear Bike Night at Wild Wings Café 7pm

Rides:

BRIM & MARCI LEAL

WED. July 3rd, 10th, 17th, 24th & 31st

Bike Nights sponsored by biker wear

PIG OUT MENU Available for a Limited Time

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

1. 4th Annual Bryan K. Loan June 1st 9am KSU 10am at Botetourt Funeral Home 2. Hillbilly & Vets Ride to Maggie Valley July 27th meet at Jonesborough VFW 8am KSU 8:30am

Bike Rallies: 1. Ultimate Rally Back of the Dragon June 7th – 9th 2. 22nd June bug Boogie Bike Rally June 20th – 23rd Telco, TN 3. Thunder in the Smokies June 28th – 30th

Rides & Rallies

sponsored by biker wear

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Hello friends, how are you today?

The Blue Plum Festival in Johnson City is coming up, so I thought it would be nice to share a little history about the city and its festival. Since 1999, the familyfriendly music festival has brought the community together for local music in downtown Johnson City. This year, they celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Blue Plum Festival! We’ve heard it over and over: Blue Plum Festival is where summer begins. Why "Blue Plum?"

The history of the organization’s name. Before Johnson City was a city, this little village was home to a post office in the 19th century called the Blue Plum Post Office. The post office — along with the rest of “Johnson’s Depot” in the village — was founded by entrepreneur Henry Johnson. The Blue Plum Post Office was located near the train stop at what’s now the corner of Buffalo Street and West State of Franklin Road. Johnson was postmaster and would later become the founder and namesake of modern-day Johnson City with its incorporation by the state in 1869. The Blue Plum Gives Back program began in 2020 as the organization was seeking ways to support the arts in Downtown Johnson City. When they were unable to have the festival in 2021

Beanz Biker Corner

By Anne Hartley 423-297-5675

due to COVID-19, they set aside $20,000 to support public programs, events and initiatives that stimulate art, music, and culture in the area. The first Blue Plum Gives Back project was to co-sponsor a mural with Johnson City Public Art, which was completed in late 2022.

They also provided funding toward the Downtown Square Breezeway project through this program in 2020. Below are other projects Blue Plum Give Back has sponsored or partnered on!

William Bean, traditionally recognized as Tennessee's first white settler, built his cabin along Boone's Creek near Johnson City in 1769. In the 1780s, Colonel John Tipton (1730–1813) established a farm (now the TiptonHaynes State Historic Site) just outside what is now Johnson City. During the State of Franklin movement, Tipton was a leader of the loyalist faction, residents of the region who wanted to remain part of North Carolina rather than form a separate state. In February 1788, an armed engagement took place at Tipton's farm between Tipton and his men, and the forces led by John Sevier, the leader of the Franklin faction. Founded in 1856 by Henry Johnson as a railroad station called "Johnson's Depot", Johnson City became a major rail hub for the Southeast, as three railway lines crossed in the downtown area. During the 1920s and the Prohibition era, Johnson City's ties to the bootlegging activity of the Appalachian Mountains earned the city the nickname of "Little Chicago". Stories persist that the town was one of several distribution centers for Chicago gang boss Al Capone during Prohibition. Capone had a wellorganized distribution network within the southern United States for alcohol smuggling; it shipped his products from the mountain distillers to northern cities. Capone was, according to local lore, a part-time resident of Montrose Court, a luxury apartment complex now listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

There is a lot of history in our area. It’s always nice to look back into the past and get a better understanding. Never too old to learn something.

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

Useless Facts: 1. Cotton Candy Was Invented in TN Almost 120 Years Ago 2. The First Moon Pie Was Made in Tennessee as A Lunchtime Snack 3. Tennessee Is the Birth Place of Mountain Dew 4. Tennessee Is Landlocked by Eight States 5. The First-Ever Tow Trucks Were Made in TN

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

theloafer.net | July 9th, 2024

Beanz Biker Corner

Sponsored By Biker Wear

theloafer.net | July 9th, 2024

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Barter Theatre Offers Sensory-Friendly Performances to Enhance Inclusivity Barter Theatre continues its commitment to inclusivity and innovation by offering sensory friendly shows designed to welcome audiences of all abilities. These special performances adapt the traditional theatre experience to create a comfortable environment for individuals with sensory sensitivities.

By adjusting lighting, sound levels, and providing a more relaxed atmosphere, The Barter Players ensure that everyone can enjoy the magic of live performance without feeling overwhelmed. These initiatives reflect the theater’s dedication to making the arts accessible to all, fostering a community where diversity is celebrated, and everyone has the opportunity to experience the transformative power of theater.

“Barter truly believes in making theater accessible to as many people as possible, and this is another way we can make

sure folks feel comfortable and welcome at our Barter Players shows,” said Barrett Guyton, Artistic Director of The Barter Players. “Currently, every Player show that takes place in Smith Theatre has a Sensory Friendly Performance, because we can offer the Smith Lounge as a quiet space.”

Before the Barter Players did their first Sensory Friendly Performance back in 2018, they knew we wanted to get extensive training so that we followed best practices, Guyton added.

“We received training from the Theatre Development Fund’s National Autism Friendly Performance Training program, as well as working with a group of individuals in our area that work with individuals on the autism spectrum and have other sensory sensitivities,” he continued. “Following their recommendations, for every show we set up a Quiet Area in the Smith Lounge where there

are coloring pages and other low-stimulus activities in case someone needs to step out of the performance.”

Every person from Barter who works an Sensory Friendly Performance, including the actors, director(s), ushers, and front of house, all have been trained specifically for sensory friendly shows.

“Before the performance, the cast, Associate Artistic Director Sarah Van Deusen, the director, and I all get together to rehearse any alterations we need to make to the show, such as slightly slowing down intense combat moments and altering any sudden movements or loud sounds,” Guyton explained. “We do not make any changes to the script, but sometimes, if there are intense or sudden combat moments, we slow them down a bit so they are less startling.”

The Barter Players also do an introduction before the play begins, where the actors all introduce themselves, what role(s) they’re playing, and show some of the costumes, props, and set pieces.

“They also talk about how the lights will change, sound will change, and invite them to move around and enjoy the show in any way they like, “Guyton said. “If there are any potentially overstimulating moments, such as fight combat, they’ll talk through that and what to expect, and make sure the audience knows that the actors are safe, as well as the audience.”

Barter encourages the sensory friendly audiences to get up and move around as possible,

allowing any personal comfort objects (including iPads, stuffed animals, etc), and, thanks to our friends at Abingdon Falls Plaza Hearing Center, Barter has many noise-canceling headphones that audience members can borrow from the box office and return.

“Our ushers are also trained specifically for Sensory Friendly Performances, including how to handle a potentially overstimulated individual.

We also have members of our Community Support Team who attend the performances and are there to help should any need arise,” Guyton noted. “The box office and website do a great job of explaining what a Sensory Friendly Performance is and what those expectations are, as well as our website information on the Players’ page.”

Barter is continually working on how to get the word out to groups, families, and individuals who would best be served by a Sensory Friendly Performance.

“I hope that it leads to more inclusivity and accessibility for everyone. Earlier this year, I went to see How to Dance in Ohio, a musical about individuals on the Autism spectrum, played by individuals who identify as on the Autism spectrum. It was wonderful,” Guyton said. “There were quiet areas throughout the theater, materials they passed out with the playbill, and it was a supportive, positive atmosphere.

I’m looking forward to more experiences like that!”

For more information on the Barter Players and Sensory Friendly Performances, please visit bartertheatre.com/thebarter-players/

17

It's 10:00 PM. You've had a long day managing multiple social media accounts and all you want to do is send one last funny meme to your friend to end the day on a high note. You realize you're on the brand account of a high profile client a minute after you hit send.

Staying signed into brand accounts on personal time is risky. One minute you're sending a funny meme, the next you're scrambling to save the reputations of the brands you manage.

If this nightmare scenario occurs, immediately delete the post and minimize the damage as quickly as possible. Draft an apology to deploy on all platforms if necessary. A sincere apology is necessary in a world where internet users have been

Social Sentiments

By Wendy Hayden socialsentiments @outlook.com

socialsentiments.net

unconsciously trained to spot fake apologies.

Contact everyone associated with marketing and public relations with both involved parties. Bring everyone up to speed on the situation and form a plan to salvage the brand reputation. A crisis communications plan is crucial to any brand, business, or organization with a social media presence. Having a plan of action will allow you to properly respond in the event of an accidental post.

Before you transition from work to home, sign out of all brand accounts on all of your devices.

Make sure you do not have access to accidentally post to the brand accounts. If you must be signed in, be sure to double check before posting to avoid a public relations nightmare.

theloafer.net | July 9th, 2024

Mixing Business and Pleasure

theloafer.net | July 9th, 2024

18

Introduction to Oral History with Virginia State Folklorist Katy Clune Free workshop at the Birthplace wisdom gathered from interviewing of Country Music Museum July 14 hundreds of individuals over the past decade, will offer her insights and The Birthplace of Country Music Museum is pleased to announce a advice to participants. special workshop, “Introduction Katy Clune is the director of the to Oral History Methods,” 3 - 4 p.m. ET, on Sunday, July 14 in the Virginia Folklife Program, an initiative dedicated to sustaining Learning Center at the museum. and empowering the diverse This workshop, taught by Virginia state folklorist Katy Clune, will cultures and traditions within the provide participants with an Commonwealth. She has devoted invaluable introduction to the her career to fostering cultural art and science of recording oral connections and creating platforms histories. Attendees will learn for communities and artists to share about the ethics, techniques, their stories. technology, and processing of conducting interviews. The event is free and open to the public, but pre-registration is required due to limited capacity.

Katy has held positions with prestigious organizations, including the Smithsonian Center for Folklife and Cultural Heritage, The Textile “Preserving our community’s stories Museum, the Center for the Study of is essential to understanding and the American South at UNC Chapel celebrating our shared heritage,” Hill, and Duke University’s arts said museum Head Curator Dr. initiative. In 2021 she was awarded Rene Rodgers. “We are thrilled to the Archie Green Fellowship from have Katy, an esteemed expert the American Folklife Center at the in oral history, guide us in this endeavor. This workshop is a Library of Congress to document unique opportunity for participants the stories of repair professionals to learn how to capture and cherish across North America. Katy holds a the memories that shape our family Bachelor’s in art history from U.C. histories and cultural fabric.”

Berkeley and an M.A. in folklore from With just a phone and a curious UNC Chapel Hill. mind, you can begin preserving To pre-register for the workshop, the cherished memories of your family and community. Katy Clune, visit the Events page at with her extensive experience and BirthplaceOfCountryMusic.org.

2024 Baby & Family Expo at YWCA NETN and SWVA A One-Stop Free Event Saturday, August 3, 2024 from 10 to 2 pm at 106 State Street It’s all things baby, children, and family at the 8th annual Baby & Family Expo on Saturday, August 3, 2024, at YWCA NETN and SWVA, 106 State Street, Bristol, TN from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

pregnancy and childbirth; baby care and development products and resources; babywearing; a performance by PLAYtime in the ARTspace; Buckle Up For Life car seat checks; parenting tips and classes by the Appalachian Parenting Education Network and Parenting Sweet; AHH Babies World Breastfeeding Week information; YWCA childcare, afterschool, and parenting resources, and more.

Free admission to moms, dads, grandparents, and caregivers, to check out services and products that are the For information on the 2024 Baby & Family best for your baby, young child and family. Expo, or an exhibitor/vendor application, Goodie bags will be offered to the first 200 contact Appalachian Promise Alliance at attendees so get there early to experience parentingsweet@appalachianpromise.org. a “one stop” event for a variety of The Parenting Education Network/ information and regional resources.

Appalachian Promise Alliance and YWCA Come prepared to shop for specialty and unique items for the whole family, place a bid for items at the silent auction, and obtain information and resources on activities and resources for children of all ages. Visit every vendor to be entered to win the GRAND PRIZE drawing made possible by our sponsors.

Enjoy demonstrations and resources on

Northeast TN and Southwest VA are supported by Ballad Health’s Population Health Community Health Initiative, part of the STRONG Accountable Care Community.

Support from Ballad Health Population Health helps create a regional culture that helps all children flourish, benefiting from a strong start in life, community resources, resilience building, and learning.

Saturday, August 3

10:00 AM-2:00 PM YWCA, 106 State Street, Bristol Free admission baby and family products and services from around the region Freebies! PRIZES! Silent auction Giveaway bags to the first 200 attendees

APPALACHIANPROMISE.org

Media partners

by Kathie Scalf

Growing up in the south, particularly from our “neck of the woods,” you learn early on the importance of good eatin’. I’m sure I’m not alone in reminiscing about all those meals at Grandmas, where the whole family squeezed in elbowto-elbow to indulge in her home cooking. In fact, with most of my childhood memories having turned to fuzzy clips of vague emotions, these times of celebration and post-church family fellowship are some of the only clear recollections I have left. As I’ve gotten older and broadened my culinary horizons, I still have to admit that as much as I love exploring other cuisines, my heart will always belong to the simple, greasy, down-home dishes of Appalachia. But how will that ever co-exist with my newfound love of French wine? Beautifully, it turns out!

deliciousness in every lumpy bite; particularly when smothered with her famous sausage gravy. Fried and crumbled in her biggest skillet, the woman never measured anything, just using pure instinct and years of experience to add the perfect amounts of whole milk, flour and seasonings to the ample pool of grease. As I pondered what wine could possibly hold up to this hearty concoction that seems to be all over the board and typically consumed early in the day, only 1 answer came to mind- classic Champagne. I’m a firm believer that most problems can be solved with bubbles, and if you’re ever in a predicament where you need a wine that will play off a little bit of everything, it’s a great go-to.

Champagne in particular has a more yeasty flavor than other sparkling wines, making it a great match for When I decided to make my piece this biscuits and gravy. While it offers a creamy nuttiness, it’s still light week about pairing vino with classic southern dishes, I had no intention of enough to not be extra weight on an already heavy meal. Remember, all making them France specific. But as I reviewed my brainstorming chicken sparkling wine is commonly referred to as Champagne incorrectly, but scratch, I was surprised to see that TRUE Champagne must come from every single glass was from the land the Champagne region of France. Try of the Louvre, and try as I might, I to get one that has been aged for a could not dream up a better pairing. couple years, but if you’re ballin on a So as crazy as it sounds, it seems budget, there are some terrific Nonthe hills of the French countryside Vintage (NV) options out there that might in fact have something in common with the sticks and hollers of won’t break the bank.

Appalachia.

For the next course, there’s no way I could cultivate a list of home cooked When I was thinking up my favorite cuisine without mentioning soup country dishes, naturally I started beans and corn bread. There’s hardly with my absolute favorite breakfast staple- gravy and biscuits. My Granny another scent in this world that can make me go as wild as a big pot of used to bake drop biscuits called simmering pintos on a stovetop with “cat heads” because they were, you a cast iron skillet full of cornbread in guessed it, as big as a cat’s head. the oven below. You can eat them They weren’t the fluffy, golden and however you want, but my preferred perfectly symmetrical buttermilk method is to ladle a giant spoonful versions most of the rest of the of beans over a hunk of crumbled world is used to, but there was pure cornbread and top it with a couple dashes of Texas Pete. On a cold winter day, nothing will warm your bones better, I assure you. But what sort of wine would be the perfect

complement to such a simple but filling concoction? My mind immediately traveled to Burgundy.

French pinot has an earthiness that plays well with the beans, while still having just enough structure to stand up to the added texture of being cooked in pig fat. Aim for a nice Cote de Nuit Village wine for a full-bodied Burgundy experience without the hefty price tag of the well-known Grand Cru vineyards.

For suppertime in the south, I had 3 staples immediately come to mind and they all deserved an honorable mention and pairing suggestion. I felt it was only fair to give you a seafood, a white meat and a red meat option, depending on your mood. For the fish dish, there was no way I could avoid discussing shrimp and grits.

This savory blending of seafood and breakfast carbs for dinner is the meal that changed my mind about crustaceans as a teenager, and the addition of spicy andouille sausage is the perfect way to round out this deliciousness. The only way it could be any better is with a big glass of Sancerre. While most would think that Sauvignon Blanc would be far too citrusy or delicate for a meal this robust, this French version of the grape is actually quite versatile and is a fabulous complement to more savory flavors. It still holds the characteristic green, white and yellow fruit profiles, but has a salinity that creates perfect balance to full flavors.

If you’re in the mood for something with feathers, how about pairing a glass of French chardonnay with a big bowl of chicken and dumplings?

A white Burgundy is a great option for this one-pot meal. Opt for a Cote de Beaune over Chablis, as these tend to be oaked, giving them more of the creaminess to play off the texture of the dumplings. I feel that Chablis being unoaked would be too light and fruity for a dish this savory.

Finally if you’re craving something carnivorous, let’s go read all the

way with a pan full of meat loaf and a bottle of Bordeaux. This classic red blend would not only go great with a thick slice of loaf straight out of the oven, but would also be the perfect way to wash down a leftover meatloaf sandwich on white bread.

Bordeaux, particularly styles from the Left Bank which contain more cabernet sauvignon, have delicious, grippy tannins that help balance out the fattiness of the red meat. You could also add a splash of this vino to jazz up your standard ketchup based glaze!

If there is 1 thing I could hammer home to everyone I know, it would be “don’t be afraid of wine!” All these things sounds so fancy and complicated when in reality, most wines can be quite versatile. Don’t be scared to match your favorite comfort foods with grapes from far-away lands that are a little hard to pronounce.

They always say opposites attract, and when it comes to food and wine, that couldn’t be more true!

XO - Kathie

theloafer.net | July 9th, 2024

Home Cooked Wine Pairings

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theloafer.net | July 9th, 2024

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Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park JULY 2024 EVENTS

Carter Mansion Guided Tours Tuesday – Saturday, July 2-3, 5-6, 16-20 10:00 AM Tuesday – Saturday, July 9-13, 23-27 1:30 PM Monday, July 29 1:00 PM Cost: Adults - $10.00; Seniors: 65 & up, Veterans, & Active Duty - $8.00; Ages 17 & under - $5.00 Tax included Max:12 per tour Registration required www.tnstateparks.com/parks/events/ sycamore-shoals Join our park’s interpretive staff for a tour of Tennessee’s oldest frame house!

Enjoy the beauty of this elegant frontier home and learn the history of the Carter family who built it between 1775 and 1780. The John and Landon Carter Mansion is located at 1031 Broad Street, Elizabethton, TN 37643. Accessibility to the home includes steps and an interior staircase.

Sabine Hill Guided Tours Tuesday – Saturday, July 2-3, 5-6, 16-20 1:30 PM Tuesday – Saturday, July 9-13, 23-27 10:00 AM Cost: Adults - $10.00; Seniors: 65 & up, Veterans, & Active Duty - $8.00; Ages 17 & under - $5.00 Max: 12 per tour Registration required www.tnstateparks.com/parks/events/ sycamore-shoals Join our park’s interpretive staff for a guided tour of this stately home built by Mary Patton Taylor, widow of Brigadier General Nathaniel Taylor. The site has been described as one of the finest examples of Federal architecture in the State of Tennessee. During your tour you will have the opportunity to take in the colorful and architecturally detailed interior while learning about the influential Taylor family who called Sabine Hill home in the early 19th century. Sabine Hill is located at 2328

West G Street, Elizabethton, TN 37643.

Accessibility to the home includes steps and an interior staircase.

Please note, only portable toilet facilities are available.

Flags in Colonial America Monday, July 15 2:00 PM Cost: $6.00; Tax included Registration required www.tnstateparks.com/parks/events/ sycamore-shoals Beat the afternoon heat and join our museum curator Chad Bogart in the “Gathering Place” of the park visitor center as he shares the history behind our nation’s most recognized symbol. Learn how our country’s flag was derived and see examples of other flags used in America during the 18th century and the War for Independence.

18th Century Tomahawk Throwing* Friday, July 19 6:30 PM Cost: Adults - $5.00, Ages 12 - 17 $3.00 Registration required www.tnstateparks.com/parks/events/ sycamore-shoals Discover the unique skill of 18th century tomahawk throwing by joining Ranger Taylor Moorefield for a hands-on tutorial. Topics will include the versatile applications of the tomahawk on the early American Frontier as well as proper technique and release for throwing with safety and accuracy. No children younger than 12. Parents who wish to be present but not participate do not need to register.

Please dress appropriately for the weather.

Bring your own water, all other supplies will be provided. Please don’t bring your own tomahawk. Meet inside Fort Watauga, subject to cancellation due to significantly inclement weather. Program length: 1 hour

Independence on the Frontier* Saturday, July 20 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM Free Admission

By today’s standards information traveled slowly in the 18th century. Be a guest in Fort Watauga as news of the Declaration of Independence finally arrives on the colonial frontier. Walk among historical characters and hear their varied reactions to the colonies’ separation from Great Britain. Enjoy living history demonstrations, displays, and presentations throughout the day.

Basket Making* Saturday, July 20 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM Free Admission Join Ranger Sarah at the Independence Muster and step into the past to discover the timeless craft of basket making as it was practiced in the 18th century.

A Look at Plant Medicine of Appalachia* Sunday, July 21 2:00 PM Cost: Adults $10:00, Ages 11-17 $7:00, 10 and under free Registration required www.tnstateparks.com/parks/events/ sycamore-shoals Join Ranger Taylor Moorefield to learn about traditional local medicinal plants and the various ways to prepare them, just as the settlers and Native Americans would have done hundreds of years ago.

Guests will learn about making salves, poultices, tinctures, and concoctions from several native plants. Guests will get to see a demonstration of part of the process to make an herbal remedy as well. Program is suitable for all ages.

Meet in Fort Watauga.

Program length: 45 minutes

English Country Dancing with the Sabine Hill Social Society Sunday, July 21 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM Free Admission Dancing was a very popular social pastime in early America. Beginners and seasoned dancers alike are all welcome

Visitors Center Hours:

to learn early 19th century dances. Open to anyone, with or without experience or a partner. Meet in the Visitor Center Gathering Room.

Overmountain Stories - A Tour of Sycamore Shoals* Friday, July 26 10:00 AM Cost: Adults $5.00, Ages 17 and under $3:00 Registration required www.tnstateparks.com/parks/events/ sycamore-shoals Join Park Ranger Taylor Moorefield for a walking tour through the park and learn about the significant events that took place here in the late 18th century and beyond. Program is subject to cancelation in the event of severely inclement weather.

Program involves traversing the grounds of Sycamore Shoals for approximately 45 minutes.

Old Time Music Jam Sunday, July 28 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM Free Admission Enjoy the rich musical traditions of our region. Old time musicians of all levels are welcome. Don’t play an instrument? Come on over, kick back, and enjoy the tunes.

History at Home Tuesdays - Saturdays Throughout the summer, Seasonal Interpreters Abby Hikade & Miguel Parrilla present a wide variety of free, familyoriented history and nature programs, in addition to tours of the Carter Mansion and Sabine Hill. The History at Home schedule can be picked up at the park & is also posted at the following sites: tnstateparks.com/parks/sycamore-shoals sycamoreshoalstn.wordpress.com facebook.com/sycamoreshoals * Outdoor programs are subject to cancellation in the event of severe weather conditions. Contact the park for details.

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

21

The character of Willy Wonka has appeared on the big screen in two films, one released in 1971 and the other in 2005. The character is back in "Wonka", starring the actor who has taken the box office by storm, Timothee Chalamet.

The new film is described as a musical/fantasy/comedy, and it certainly fits the bill. The film is the story of Wonka's early days before his chocolate factory, and he is presented as an aspiring inventor, chocolatier and musician. Wonka arrives at the Galeries Gourmet, full of businesses selling chocolate, with the desire to start his own house of chocolate. After he arrives, Wonka and his small savings soon depart, and he is taken to Mrs. Scrubitt's (Olivia Colman) boarding house by a henchman. As he is signing a contract to stay at the boarding house, Wonka is warned by an orphan named Noodle (Calah Lane) that he should read the fine print on the papers. Wonka signs on without reading the contract, and will pay the price. When he is able to leave

Pop Life

By Ken Silvers theloaferonlineprint @gmail.com

the boarding house, he goes to the area of city where the chocolate store are to introduce "hoverchocs", a chocolate that causes people to float. After the demonstration, Wonka sells out of the magical chocolate, but has his earnings taken by rival chocolatiers Slugworthn (Paterson Joseph), Prodnose (Matt Lucas) and Fickelgruber (Mathew Baynton). The rival chocolatiers are so jealous and threatened by Wonka they have the corrupt Chief of Police (Keagan-Michael Key) aid in the confiscation of Wonka's earnings. After all his earnings are taken, Wonka is unable to pay the high fees of staying at the boarding house, and is forced to work in Scrubbitt's laundry with Noodles and several other captives. While working in the laundry, Wonka reveals his late mother was the inspiration for his chocolate, and believes his creations are being stolen by a mysterious little orange man, which is discovered to be Lofty (Hugh Grant), an Oompa Loompa, mischievous small humans who love cocoa beans and love to play practical jokes. Meanwhile, the city's "chocolate cartel", threatened

by Wonka's more affordable and better chocolate, uses the chocolate loving Chief of Police to intimidate Wonka.

While in the boarding house, Noodles has been teaching the illiterate Wonka to read, and the two devise a plan to take down the cartel and the corrupt police chief. Of course the plan is successful and Wonka and his friends open the chocolate store he has always dreamed

of. However, unable to use the police to continue to intimidate Wonka, the cartel sabotages Wonka's chocolate, resulting in the destruction of Wonka's store, and his forced departure from the city. Despite being forced out of the city, Wonka and his boarding house friends devise a plan to take down the crooked cartel, which proved successful, even resulting in a reunion between Noodles and her long lost mother. After his success, Wonka is able to turn an abandoned castle into his soon to be famous chocolate factory, with Lofty as

his tasting chef. While the film does contain musical numbers, they are not overused, and add to the colorfulness of the film.

The film is magical, has plenty of humor and heart in revealing Wonka's origin. While Chalamet isn't the best singer in the world, he is fine in his vocal efforts and makes the film flow with his charm and charisma.

"Wonka" is a blast of eye candy the entire family can enjoy.

(Rated PG)

theloafer.net | July 9th, 2024

WONKA

theloafer.net | July 9th, 2024

22

P

CONCERT SCHEDULE Bristol

GREENVILLE

Oct 10 Oct 26

PARAMOUNT Jun 1 Mac McAnally (sold out) Jun 20 Steve Earle Jul 18 The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus Aug 2 Kenny Wayne Shepherd Band Aug 17 Ozark Mountain Daredevils Sep 28 Dusty Slay (two shows) Oct 4 Destination Soultown featuring the Sensational Soul Cruisers

NISWONGER PERFORMING ARTS CENTER Jul 19 Dugger Band

KNOXVILLE CIVIC COLISEUM: Jul 25 Jordan Davis Oct 3 Brantley Gilbert

BRISTOL TN/VA

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.

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

GREENEVILLE TN

MARION VA THE LINCOLN THEATRE 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 TN

Knoxville

BIJOU THEATRE 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 Oct 27 Robin Trower Nov 8 Gaelic Storm

MARTIN CENTER FOR THE ARTS Aug 17 The Concert: A Tribute to ABBA Spp 28 Black Jacket Symphony will perform will perform Elton John’s TENNESSEE THEATRE Jun 8 Brad Williams Madman Across The Water Jul 9 Brit Floyd: P.U.L.S.E. Oct 7 Ben Folds Jul 13 1964 The Tribute Jul 18 Ben Folds FREEDOM HALL Aug 16 Jamey Johnson THOMPSON BOWLING ARENA Oct 20 Whiskey Myers July 14 The Doobie Brothers with Robert Cray Kingsport Aug 24 Heart and Cheap Trick Sept 12 Hootie and the Blowfish with RED WHITE AND BOOM Collective Soul and Edwin McCain Jul 6 The Marshall Tucker Band and Oct 5 Aerosmith and The Cleverlys The Black Crowes FUN FEST AT J. FRED JOHNSON STADIUM Oct 25 Jelly Roll Nov 19 Justin Timberlake Jul 25 Crowder

KINGSPORT TN

Jul 26 Jul 27

Tyler Hubbard, Emily Ann Roberts & Carson Peters Goo Goo Dolls with Phillip Phillips

KNOXVILLE CIVIC AUDITORIUM: Jun 12 Josh Gates Jun 13 Matt Rife Jun 29 David Spade

Air Supply Dusty Slay

GATLINBURG TN

GATLINBURG

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

NASHVILLE TN

Nashville

RYMAN AUDITORIUM Jun 13 The Del McCoury Band Jun 15 Hauser 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 Ozark Mountain Daredevils Aug 18 Joe Bonamassa Aug 22 The Turtles, The Cowsills, The Association and others Aug 28 Steve Earle Aug 29 Terri Clark Aug 30 Passenger Sep 4-6 The Red Clay Strays Sep 23 The Beach Boys

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 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 Oct 26 Judah & The Lion ASCEND AMPHITHEATRE 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 GEODIS PARK IN NASHVILLE: Aug 30 Green Day, Smashing Pumpkins, Rancid & the Linda Lindas

BROWN COUNTY MUSIC CENTER Jun 2 John Anderson acoustic Jun 16 Bachman Turner Overdrive Jun 22 Mike Campbell & The Dirty Knobs BRIDGESTONE ARENA Jul 27 Kenny Wayne Shepherd Band Jun 14 Luis Miguel Jun 23 Alanis Morissette, Joan Jett & Aug 1 Night Ranger Morgan Wade Aug 2 Taylor Hicks Jul 19 Alabama Aug 22 Cinderella’s Tom Keiger Band Jul 21 Sebastian Maniscalco Aug 24 & 25 Aaron Lewis Acoustic Jul 27 Hootie and the Blowfish with Collective Soul and Edwin McCain Aug 30 Crowder

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

23

David Lynch is rightfully celebrated as a great film director and one who makes a style of film that is unmistakably his own. So much so the term “Lynchian” has been invented to describe things that invoke his unmissable sense of, well, oddness. Lynch gained a certain amount of internet fame during those lock-in days of 2020 for posting daily weather reports from his workshop on YouTube.

American cinema. Unsatisfied by the non-committal response from the police, Jeffery decides to start investigating things himself. This leads him and his friend Sandy to a young singer named Dorothy who is being tormented by an absolute psychopath, Frank Booth.

“Blue Velvet” is at times both darkly funny, and repulsive. A film that feels like young adults looking into a mystery, but the monsters around them are very real and are Lynch’s filmography is filled with the seediest of underbellies in a movies that have distinct, and town whose entire economy is built unforgettable images, (the baby around wood. David Lynch setting from “Eraserhead,” anyone?), and a dark mystery in a town called one of his most celebrated films is “Lumberton” with a 1950s American his 1986 dark side of small-town suburbia esthetic is the most David life/neo-noir “Blue Velvet.” Starring Kyle MacLachlan, Isabella Rossellini, Lynch thing ever. It also helps set a somewhat disorienting sense of Laura Dern, and Dennis Hopper, who plays one of the most terrifying time. Is this the 1950s or the 1980s?

You’re never entirely sure. villains ever seen on screen. “Blue Velvet” is about a young man who I liked “Blue Velvet” a lot, it remains returns from college after his father one of Lynch’s most celebrated films, has a medical issue. even if it took audiences a few years to catch up to it. It also has a lot of Our young student, Jeffery, is little seeds that would you see come walking home through a field one day when he finds among the weeds to fully bloom a few years later when Lynch turned his eyes to TV with the a cut-off human ear. This leads seminal series “Twin Peaks.” The our somewhat innocent young film has been re-released by The man down a road into a mystery Criterion Collection, this time as a 4K as dark as anything dreamt up in UHD blu-ray combo pack, along with their older blu-ray release of the film.

Batteries Not Included

By Andy Ross theloaferonlineprint @gmail.com

For this 4K release, Criterion has used a 35mm scan of the original camera negative, presented in Dolby Vision high dynamic range to “persevere the wide color gamut of the original theatrical presentation.”

That’s a very apt description, as the colors are the most impressive part of this disc. “Blue Velvet” is a dark film, visually, and Lynch has expressed before that TV tends to display his movies wrongs, the criterion disk of “Eraserhead” came with a setup guide from him to calibrate your TV. The image is very dark, but those colors do stand out and it makes for a rich, cinematic presentation, with the transfer getting approval from Lynch. The same goes for

the audio options. In 2008, Lynch made a new 5.1 surround remix of the film using the 35mm magnetic stock source stems. The film was originally released in Dolby Stereo 2.0 surround, and that track has also been included, which can be enjoyed in surround on your system with Dolby Pro Logic.

There’s a healthy array of bonus materials included as well. All of which is, as goes with most Criterion 4K releases, on the blu-ray disc. In this case, the included bluray is the same one that Criterion first released back in 2019. There’s a nearly hour-long reel of deleted footage and alternate takes, a feature-length documentary on the making of the film, and various

interviews with crew members and Lynch taking about the film in an excerpt from an audiobook he wrote in 2008.

Criterion has already taken their fantastic release of “Blue Velvet” and made it even better with his 4K UHD, upgrade. It’s a great set, and my advice to you is the same as I always offer. If you have the 2019 disc and are perfectly happy with it, then hang on to it. If you’re been waiting for this one to hit 4K, then grab it. It’s well worth owning and you’ll be more than happy with the richness of the colors the Dolby Vision grading brings out. See you next week.

theloafer.net | July 9th, 2024

Blue Velvet

2025 SPRING SEASON

AUGUST 23, 2024 • 6:00 PM ETSU MARTIN CENTER Be the first to know which captivating Broadway shows will be a part of our season lineup!

Hors d'oeuvres and a cash bar will be available.

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