The Loafer 127

of Summer

NOTE

Volume 03 Issue 127 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 12th Annual Symphony by the 06 Flack Attack!

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 The ETSU State of Aging Conference 14

Biker Events

16 Get the Summer Camp Experience at Home with These Fun-Filled Activities Military Community

Wendy Hayden

20 Local Pup Finds Himself

Ann Hartley

Somewhere Over the Rainbow in

The Loafer

Barter's The Wizard of Oz 22 WQUT Concert Schedule

Po Box 39 Telford, Tn 37690

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!

Dog Days of Summer! How are you spending your Summer? Our family took our first cruise. 22 of us and it was a blast! I think my favorite thing to do was watch a movie outside by the pool. I also loved that the kids could have have their freedom to explore and meet friends on the ship.

Sadly I did suffer with some motion sickness but overall it was still a great trip. I am actually writing this from a chair on the beach at Folly Beach and it is beautiful!

I hope you are enjoying your time this Summer!

Have a great week!

Love,

Lisa Durbin

Publisher

423-930-7319 www.theloafer.net theloaferonlineprint@gmail.com

FROM THE PUBLISHER

Lake at UVA Wise

18 IHow to Give Back to the

Ken Silvers

columns & reviews

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15 Beanz Biker Corner Let's Go Camping 17

Social Sentiments:

Spring Sunshine Into Your Feed!

19 Tea Time with Appalachian Barbie:

Home Cooked Wine Pairings 21 Pop Life The Fall Guy 23 Batteries Not Included: Slip, Slide and Crash

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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

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2025 SPRING SEASON

Spotlight

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Cash Crop 10:00pm at Bristol Casino Bar Three Miles South 10:00pm at O’Mainnin’s Pub MONDAY July 22nd Anthony Childress 7:00pm at Cascade Draft House

Bristol, TN/VA Bristol TN/Va WEDNESDAY July 17th Nathan Morgan 7:00pm at Cascade Draft House THURSDAY July 18th Joslyn & The Sweet Compression 7:00pm at Bristol Casino Bar Sounds of Summer: Phantom 7:00pm at Downtown Center FRIDAY July 19th The Warman Trio 7:00pm at Bristol Casino Bar Damon Heath 7:00pm at Cascade Draft House Hannah Rae 8:00pm at The Corner Marques Puckett & 8 Second Ride10:00pm at Bristol Casino Bar Adrian Bundy + His Honky Tonk Hearts 10:00pm at O’Mainnin’s Pub

TUESDAY July 23rd Sounds of Summer: Honey Badgers 7:00pm at Downtown Center

SUNDAY July 21st

SUNDAY July 21st

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

Jason Lloyd 7:00pm at Lakeview Marina

TUESDAY July 22nd Old Time Jam 5:00pm at Yee-Haw Brewing Company Brim & Marci Leal 6:30pm at Rocks Wood Fired Pizza Kingsport

Johnson City

THURSDAY July 18th

WEDNESDAY July 17th Rheva & Keegan’s Irish Fiddle Tunes 5:30pm at Mulligan’s Gaming Pub

Holly Ann and Dirt Road Rising 7:00pm at Lakeview Marina

HB Beverly 6:30pm at Rocks Wood Fired Pizza THURSDAY July 18th Justin Mychaels 6:30pm at Rocks Wood FIred Pizza New Medicine 7:30pm at Capone’s FRIDAY July 19th Jeff Lane 6:30pm at Rocks Wood FIred Pizza Dead Set on Life 8:00pm at Tulip’s Grub & Pub The Bosses 10:00pm at Capone’s

FRIDAY July 19th Acoustifried 7:00pm at Lakeview Marina Dan Signor 7:00pm at Gypsy Circus Cider Company

Elizabethton SATURDAY July 20th Lost Creek Bluegrass Band 7:00pm at Elizabethton Covered Bridge Jams Cody Fair 8:00pm at Jiggy Ray’s Abingdon, VA SATURDAY July 20th Ed Snodderly 6:00pm at Abingdon Vineyards SUNDAY July 21st Josh Bowles, Tom Zeske III and Special Guests 2:00pm at Abingdon Vineyards

Parker Lewis Jazz Collective 7:00pm at Model City Tap House Conch Republic 8:00pm at Twilight ALive Total Justice 9:00pm at CJ’s Sports Bar

SATURDAY July 20th

SATURDAY July 20th Travis Reigh 7:00pm at Bristol Casino Bar

SATURDAY July 20th

Slick Cadillac 7:00pm at Lakeview Marina

Salty Moon Dogs Band 9:00pm at Tulip”s Grub & Pub

Dallas Danger w/ William Wight 7:00pm at Model City Tap House

Paul Edelman 7:00pm at Cascade Draft House Ryan Lowe 8:00pm at The Corner

Zak Saltz Band 8:00pm at Tulip’s Grub & Pub

Sarah Beth Lovell 8:00pm at the Reserve

1134 | Kyarn | Seppuku 10:00pm at Capone’s

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

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

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Pro-Art’s 48th season kicks off with the 12th annual Symphony by the Lake in partnership with The University of Virginia’s College at Wise. Symphony of the Mountains, under the direction of Cornelia Laemmli Orth, presents “When the Stars Come Out” at sunset on Saturday, July 20th, featuring tenor soloist and Big Stone Gap native Roy Cornelius Smith. Bring your family and friends, a picnic, blankets or lawn chairs, and enjoy a fabulous evening of music under the stars at UVA Wise. The concert will commence at 8:30 p.m. and is free and open to the public.

The program offers a blend of classical and popular music, beginning with a rendition of “The Star-Spangled Banner” and moving into lively and celebratory pieces by composers such as Franz von Suppé and Johann Strauss II. The audience will enjoy selections that range from John Williams’ stirring compositions to beloved Broadway hits from “Les Misérables.” The evening gives way to a series of patriotic and Americana favorites, featuring a trumpet solo by Jimmy Stokes and a medley honoring the armed forces.

Soloist Roy Cornelius Smith has established himself among the ranks of the finest tenors of his generation with a voice of exceptional color and beauty.

Smith has performed leading tenor roles at opera houses and festivals around the world including the Salzburg Festival, Metropolitan Opera, Vienna Volksoper, New York City Opera, and Lyric Opera of Chicago. He has also performed as a soloist with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, New York Philharmonic, and with the Vienna Radio Symphony Orchestra.

Atlanta-based composer and fellow Big Stone Gap native Kevin Robison will premiere his newest work for voice and orchestra, “Fantasia on Appalachian Folk Songs,” during the program. The piece evokes the spirit and majesty of the Appalachian region through contemporary settings of five popular folk songs: ‘The Sunny South,’ ‘Barbara Allen,’ ‘The True Lover’s Farewell,’ ‘The Farmer’s Curst Wife,’ and ‘Pretty Saro.’

Symphony of the Mountains’ commitment to service encompasses the entire region, without regard for state or county

boundaries. The orchestra consists of more than 70 professional musicians conducted by Cornelia Laemmli Orth. For more information about the symphony and to see a list of upcoming performances, please visit symphonyofthemountains.org.

Pro-Art’s 48th season offers an impressive selection of theater, jazz, and some truly unique performances by storytellers, puppeteers, and even an ariel silk ballet! There’s something for everyone this season and a lot of additional opportunities to be adventurous and try something new. Explore the complete season and make reservations at proartva. org. Season tickets are valid for all performances of the 48th 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.

This performance is made possible in part by the Marvin and Marcia Gilliam Foundation. 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.

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12th Annual Symphony by the Lake at UVA Wise

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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 16th, 2024

TRI-CITIES

7

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SODOKU

DROP QUOTE

C RYPTO G RAM CBM OGVCMZ QCRCMQ YRG CMUU SKO RUU RXKOC NBRC'Q NJKGW NVCB CBM XJVCVQB, CK QRS GKCBVGW KE CBM JOQQVRGQ.

— Arthur Hays Sulzberger

CROSSWORD

ACROSS 1. Lobster-eaters' accessories 5. Football great Favre 10. Australia's lang.

14. Opera highlight 15. Uncle of storytelling 16. More than a little 17. First streaker?

19. Words in the middle of a noted palindrome 20. Handel inspiration 21. Traveled by plane 22. Poem used in Beethoven's "Choral Symphony" 26. Smallest amount 30. Suit specialists 34. Commencement 35. Hockey defenseman Paul 36. Legislative vote

37. "You got it" 39. Win over 42. Wallach or Whitney 43. Grazing grounds 47. Came into being 48. Purse taker 51. Al ___ (firm) 52. Infamous Dutch spy 54. Tolerated 57. Claim 62. "____ Misbehavin'" 63. Plain and simple 66. Miss, in Marseilles: Abbr.

67. Make butter the oldfashioned way 68. Off-roaders, familiarly 69. Interstellar dist.

70. Dirty and unkempt 71. 10th-grader, for short

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

Down

1. Medicinal ointment 2. Hymn word 3. Presidential runs 4. Verbalizes 5. Expansive 6. Lucille Ball, e.g.

7. British recording co.

8. 8 options, on ATMs 9. Dept. of Homeland Security org.

10. Crabtree partner 11. Fiddler while Rome burned 12. Sprouted 13. "____ Eyes" (song by The Eagles) 18. Influential pre-Renaissance Florentine artist 21. Pro 23. Communication system for the deaf 24. Not Rx 25. Comedian's bit 26. Asocial sort 27. ___ Gay (WWII bomber) 28. Tomato gelatin 29. Pastor's speech (abbr.)

31. Keep an ___ (watch closely) 32. Bakers get a rise out of it 33. Eastern wrap 38. Dab with absorbent paper 40. Bottommost points 41. Dr. of rap music 44. Pitcher's stat 45. Former ember 46. Where ships come in 49. Actor, at times 50. Dined on 53. Like undercooked eggs 54. One of two O.T. books 55. Pinball-machine word 56. Sole 58. "Split" soup ingredients 59. Fully aware of 60. Request for a response, briefly 61. Keyboardist John 63. ATM manufacturer 64. "___ wise guy, eh!"

65. Fruitcake

LI

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

Can you find them all?

A M a chat and playful antics on her Meet Germaine, a small, delightful and talkative 3 yr old cat tree. Germaine is spayed, female cat who absolutely loves up to date on vaccinations, people, playtime, cuddles, and microchipped and eager to being petted. With her soft and be your affectionate feline sleek fur, she’s always ready for companion. Bday 9/09/20

Last Week's Puzzle Answers

SP A

Crossword

Cryptogram:

Dropquote:

"The more man meditates upon good thoughts, the better will be his world and the world at large."

"Describing the Internet as the Network of Networks is like calling the Space Shuttle a thing that flies."

R

Sudoku

KY

Meet Sparky! He’s a handsome 1 yr old, Shepherd mix that weighs 70 lbs and is good with other dogs. Sparky loves his toys and to play fetch, is

high energy, house trained, neutered, current on vaccines, microchipped and Heartworm tested negative.

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 16th, 2024

PETS

OF THE WEEK

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THE MOCKINGBIRD SINGS THE BRISTOL SESSIONS

Leslie Bricusse’s

Directed by Camille Gray

The Musical

A musical love story about the birth of country music BOOK BY DR. NANCY HAMBLEN ACUFF, TERRY HARKLEROAD, & SHARON CORT WITH TRADITIONAL MUSIC AND ORIGINAL MUSIC BY HARKLEROAD & CORT

September 6-September 12 AUDITIONS July 20 at 10:00 AM July 21 at 2:00 PM

A Tuna Christmas Directed by Chris McVey

November 22-24 December 6-8 Auditions August 2 at 6:30 PM August 3 at 3:30 PM August 4 at 2:30 PM

December 13-22 AUDITIONS August 5 at 6:30 PM August 6 at 6:30 PM

theatrebristol.org/AUDITION

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 18TH Tri-Cities Turtles Run Club 12:45pm at Yee-Haw Brewing Co. FRIDAY JULY 19TH Johnson City Love & Hiking Date For Couples (Self-Guided) 7:00am at Willow Springs Park SATURDAY JULY 20TH 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 Improv Open Mic 8:00pm at Wallace Theatre

BRISTOL WEDNESDAY JULY 17TH Bristol Bloom Collective | All Local Flower Market 9:00am at West State Studio THURSDAY JULY 18TH Weekly Trunk Show 5:00pm at LUMAC Rooftop Bar “Flower Cow” Canvas Class 6:00 PM at Kil'n Time Contemporary Ceramics

FRIDAY JULY 19TH “Pretty Poppies” Canvas Class 6:00 PM at Kil'n Time Contemporary Ceramics SATURDAY JULY 20TH Board Game Night 5:00pm at Bristol Public Library

KINGSPORT WEDNESDAY JULY 17TH Kingsport Historical Society July Presentation 10:00am at Kingsport Higher Ed Center SATURDAY JULY 20TH 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 Gems & Minerals Show 12:00pm at Bays Mtn Park SUNDAY JULY 21ST Gems & Minerals Show 12:00pm at Bays Mtn Park

SUNDAY JULY 21ST Historic Jonesborough Town Tour 1:00pm at Chester Inn Bingo 5:00pm at Abingdon State Historic Site Community Center TriPride's LGBTQ+ Pool Party 6:00pm at Wetlands Water Park

ABINGDON, VA WEDNESDAY JULY 17TH Game Night 5:00pm at Abingdon Commons Bingo 5:00pm at Abingdon Community Center FRIDAY JULY 19TH Movies for Adults 2:00pm at Washington County Public Library

JONESBOROUGH TUESDAYS Jonesborough Storytelling Guild “Stories n’More” Show 7:00pm at The Intl. Storytelling Center SATURDAY JULY 20TH Jonesborough Farmers Market 8:00am at Downtown Jonesborough To be featured in The Loafer's Things to Do email us at: theloaferonlineprint@gmail.com or call 423-930-7319

ELIZABETHTON

SUNDAY JULY 21ST Maker's Market 12:00am at Crossroads Craftworks

BLUFF CITY SATURDAY JULY 20TH Bluff City Farmers Market 9:00pm at Bluff City Ball Field

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THINGS TO DO

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The ETSU State of Aging Conference

Bike Nights sponsored by biker wear Local Events: 1.. Twilight Alive July 19th Kingsport, TN 2. Hillbilly & Vet Pre-Party July 20th 7pm Wild Wings Café 3. Hillbilly & Vet Car & Bike July 20th

East Tennessee State University’s Office of Professional Development is offering The State of Aging in East Tennessee Conference in August 2024.

is beginning a pathway towards a more transparent, efficient, informed, and enriched journey for our seniors and their caregivers,” says Program Manager’s Ruth Taylor Read. “It is important in every This conference is founded by the Office of community that we become aware of Professional Development in collaboration allies, processes and resources that define with the Tennessee Commission on Aging today’s aging experience.” and Disability, Alzheimer’s Tennessee, Beginning conversations will include Northeast Tennessee-Southwest Virginia, essential topics in ageing. We will discuss and other regional agencies whose the latest Alzheimer’s research and proven focus is on the aging experiences of East strategies to enrich the journey for our Tennesseans. regional seniors. Other topics include: “Through recognizing partnerships and dementia, active aging, creative aging, igniting conversations, this conference elder law and more.

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

BRIM & MARCI LEAL

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

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

3pm – 7pm Wild Wings Café 4. 3rd Annual Tri-Cities Takeover August 25th

Bike Nights: Wednesday: 19E Pit Stop Wednesday: Jonesborough VFW Thursday: Darrell Waltrip Thursday: Old Town Tavern Friday: Tulips August 3rd Peacemakers Greenville, TN Bike Night and Bike Show

Rides: 1. Hillbilly Shine Ride to Maggie Valley NC Meet 8am KSU

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

8:30am Jonesboro VFW 2. Bear Barnes Memorial Ride August 17th

Bike Rallies: 1. 15th Annual Hillbilly Show & Shine July 26th – 27th 2. 85th Annual Sturgis Bike Rally August 2nd – 11th

Rides & Rallies

sponsored by biker wear

15

Hello again everyone, it’s a HOT summer so lets go camping in the mountains, by the river, or at the lake. I love to go camping. I tent camp. Today, it seems like most people enjoy camping.

Heck, I know I sure do! And who’s to blame them – camping is an amazing outdoor activity. But everybody has their own way of camping. Some like tents, or RV or a pull behind. No matter how you camp, you are making memories with family and friends. It’s a great way to get back to nature and get away from the noise of the city and the everyday rush. Stress just seems to melt away.

history, people have “camped” as a way of life. We humans lived a nomadic existence out of necessity, moving with the seasons, following food sources and avoiding inclement weather. A roving lifestyle in nature was all we knew for millennia. That, however, is far removed from the type of camping we’re talking about today.

We’re interested in modern camping; the campground, sleeping bag and tent, kind of camping.

Here are some camping safety tips: 1. Choose the right shelter and site for your camping trip. 2. Stay upto-date with the weather and be prepared for any changes. 3. Pack and Recreational camping has a store food safely to avoid spoilage long history, with origins traced and contamination. 4. Practice back to ancient times when campfire safety and never leave a fire early humans built temporary unattended. 5. Use insect protection structures in the wilderness and avoid areas with high infestation. for shelter and survival during hunting and gathering expeditions. 6. Be aware of allergies and bring any necessary medication. 7. Protect your However, modern recreational camping as we know it today was skin from the sun with sunscreen, popularized in the late Victorian hats, and clothing. 8. Stay hydrated era Thomas Hiram Holding, who and drink plenty of water. 9. Learn wrote the first edition of "The about local wildlife and keep a safe Camper’s Handbook" in 1908, is distance from them. 10. Be careful considered the founder of modern near water and follow the rules for recreational camping. For the overwhelming majority of human swimming and boating. 11. Avoid poisonous plants and learn how to identify them.

Beanz Biker Corner

By Anne Hartley 423-297-5675

Back when I was a kid, camping trips consisted of a leaky tent pitched on a rocky piece of earth and some marshmallows burnt to a crisp over the campfire. Don’t get me wrong, I loved camping then and I still love it now, but there’s no denying that camping has evolved in ways that were unimaginable a few decades ago. Today, modern campgrounds boast everything from waterparks to coffee carts, and they appeal to a larger number of people than ever before. With the amenities offered at some American campgrounds these days, there’s nothing rough about roughing it.

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

Useless Facts: 1. The total number of campers each year was constantly growing, but the boom was quite noticeable after the pandemic. In 2021, there were 93.8 million active camping households in the United States alone, from which 9.1 million households were camping for the first time in their life.

2. The majority of campers live in urban areas, so going camping for them is also escaping the busy city life. In a survey held in 2021, more than half of all campers (56%) were coming from urban living areas.

3. Camping is for everyone, regardless of their income. In fact, about 41% of first-time campers in 2020 came from higher-income households.

4. The average number of nights campers spend on a campground is between 7 and 9 nights.

5. You don’t need to travel long distances to enjoy nature. In 2021, 56% of campers traveled less than 100 miles for their trip. In fact, one third of them stay within just 50 miles of their homes.

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

theloafer.net | July 16th, 2024

Beanz Biker Corner

Sponsored By Biker Wear

theloafer.net | July 16th, 2024

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Get the Summer Camp Experience at Home With These Fun-Filled Activities Camp is wherever you want it • Safety scissors to be this summer!

• Hole puncher For families looking to provide a perfect setting for • Hot glue gun and sticks children to learn, play and • Water grow, Little Bites Snacks has created the Camp Little Bites virtual summer camp series, dishing up activities that inspire adventure, independence and give parents a little more free time to themselves! Erica Domesek, the founder of P.S. I Made This, has been tapped as “Head Counselor” to bring her DIY passion and expertise to Camp Little Bites, leading campers through a summer filled with fun and creativity.

paper, and use hot glue to attach the paper panels to the box. Decorate with paint, paper cutouts, etc., and punch a hole at the top of each side panel.

Add your string and bird seed,

Supplies: • Little Bites Muffin box • Markers • Construction paper • Assorted craft paint colors • Paintbrushes • Tape

• Bird seed Directions: Cut a Little Bites Muffin box four inches down the sides and near the bottom to create the base. Decorate using templates from the Camp Little Bites website. Then, trace and cut construction

• Graham crackers • Chocolate frosting • Butter knife (to spread) Spread frosting atop Little Bites Fudge Brownies. Then, place marshmallows on a baking sheet and have parents stick it in the oven at 450 degrees F for 3-4 minutes until toasty. Remove marshmallows from the oven and allow to cool for 2 minutes. Place a toasted marshmallow on top of the icing, and add a mini graham cracker and chocolate square.

Enjoy!

Making a Bird Feeder

• Twine or string

• Chocolate squares

Directions:

“With the help of Little Bites Snacks, we’re here to make this the best summer ever, giving parents and kids ideas for activities and little moments that create joy,” says Domesek, the creative force behind this year’s camp activities: Ready to meet all the birds in your neighborhood? This Muffin Box Bird Feeder will teach kids to reduce and reuse while having fun in nature.

• Marshmallows

and hang outside for the birds to enjoy!

Serving Up S’Mores These Campmate S’mores Brownies bring a twist to the classic treat and are a sweet way to end a long day of camping fun.

Supplies: • Little Bites Fudge Brownies

Additionally, Little Bites Snacks is kicking off a summer full of fun campthemed giveaways! From now through August 6, fans can enter daily for a chance to win a Grizzly-45 cooler, Robotics STEM Kits, a Roasty ‘n Toasty Solo Stove Bundle and a U.S. National Parks Pass! To enter, visit littlebites. com/camp-little-bites-2024/ you-could-win. To learn more about the DIY crafts and to sign up for Camp Little Bites, visit littlebites.com/camplittle-bites-2024.

The downtime of summer doesn’t have to be boring-with a few supplies, you can set up camp at home and get the adventure started!

(StatePoint)

17

Social media, if used correctly, can be extremely motivational.

It can motivate you to start that project you’ve been working on through groups filled with expert advice. It can also inspire you to start a business that shows the world what you are truly passionate about. Negativity runs rampant on social media, but with some tweaks, you can have the positive experience you deserve.

Ridding yourself of negative followers is a great way to add more sunshine into your feed. Content created and shared by negative people can significantly impact your mental health. Don’t be afraid to click the unfollow button

Social Sentiments

By Wendy Hayden socialsentiments @outlook.com

socialsentiments.net

on negativity. That button is the start of your path to a positive social media experience.

Comments are able to be deleted for a reason. Negative comments can have a lasting effect on mental health, whether intended or not. You hold the power to remove comments that interfere with your ability to maintain a positive outlook.

Take control of your feed by using your settings to your advantage. Filter negative language, block harmful users, and control tagging settings along with deleting negativity through followers and comments to ensure a positive social media experience that leaves you feeling fulfilled.

theloafer.net | July 16th, 2024

Spring Sunshine Into Your Feed!

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How to Give Back to the Military Community When it comes to a vast operation like the USO, which has more than 250 locations around the globe that serve hundreds of thousands of U.S. service members and their families, volunteers are at the heart of the organization’s mission.

In fact, in 2023 alone, nearly 20,000 USO volunteers at home and abroad contributed more than 1.2 million hours of their time equating to 137 years’ worth of volunteering. Fun fact: Not all the organization’s volunteers are human! Seventy-six canine volunteers contributed 4,800 hours to supporting service members and their families. Staff say that without their volunteers—human and dog alike— they wouldn’t be able to do what they do.

Whether it’s helping at community events for military spouses, greeting guests at the front desk of an airport center, organizing NFL watch parties for those stationed on the frontlines or simply providing a listening ear to a service member in need, USO volunteers help strengthen the well-being of the people serving in

America’s military and their families.

Stories like Alina Wilson’s can serve as inspiration to those interested in giving back to their own community.

A USO volunteer and military spouse, Wilson lent her support to the military community of Guam when the island was devastated by Super Typhoon Mawar in May 2023. Guam is home to 20,000 service members and also several USO staff and volunteers.

whole community of Guam. We worked really hard at the Tumon USO to get the power back on. We cleaned every day. We got there and tried to prepare the center to open as fast as we could,” Wilson said.

support the military community. To find out more or to register to volunteer, visit uso.org/take-action/volunteer.

There are countless ways volunteers can

(StatePoint)

No matter where you live, or what your skill set is, you can take action that makes a real difference.

At a time when many USO staff members were navigating the damage done to their own homes and dealing with no power or air conditioning in the middle of a hot and humid Guam summer, Wilson leaped into action. She played a huge role in helping the local USO center open its doors to service members and families recovering from the disaster to provide air conditioning, Wi-Fi connectivity, phones to call home, snacks, coffee, and a place of refuge. She went the extra mile every day by arriving early to prepare the center for opening and often stayed late to provide much-needed support.

“It was a devastating storm for the

ge!

Live on sta

Adapted for stage by David Birney Directed by Chris McVey

Saturday, July 27 - 7:30 pm Saturday, August 17 - 7:30 pm Saturday, August 24 - 7:30 pm ARTspace Stage 506 State Street Bristol, TN

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

ARTScene Production

Follow ARTScene for Weekly Nights out

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 16th, 2024

Home Cooked Wine Pairings

19

theloafer.net | July 16th, 2024

20

Local Pup Finds Himself Somewhere Over the Rainbow in Barter’s The Wizard of Oz Max was no ordinary dog. A charming terrier with a heart full of courage, he had overcome more than his fair share of hurdles before landing the role of a lifetime: Toto in Barter Theatre’s production of The Wizard of Oz. His journey to the stage was as inspiring as the timeless tale he would help bring to life, marked by resilience, love, and a sprinkling of canine magic.

From a young age, Max faced challenges that might have daunted even the bravest of souls. Rescued from a tumultuous start, he spent his early months in a shelter, waiting for a family to see beyond his scruffy fur and spirited barks. But Max’s indomitable spirit never waned. He was determined to find his place in the world, a place where he could shine.

“Max came into my life via my partner, Forest. Forest got Max from a shelter on the day that he was supposed to be put down. Max is a prime example of ‘Adopt Don’t Shop!’ Max has lived many lives. His first homes were in Denver, before Forest and I got together. Max was a groupie for some of the bands that Forest was in.

He was a city dog through and through,” one of Max’s owners Lauren Smith said.

“When Forest and I got together, Max got more spoiled with trips to the mountains for hiking and fishing trips. Abingdon is probably Max’s favorite place to live. Now he has a backyard and lots of dog friends.

“His helper, Holly, has been so kind to him and I think she’s now his favorite person.

She helps with pickups and drop-offs and makes sure that Max is in the right place at the right time. The Barter folks have made this process very easy and fun. They are always looking out for Max.”

Max’s fortune changed when he was adopted into Lauren and Forest’s family.

They quickly discovered that Max was not just a pet; he was a star in the making.

His playful nature, boundless energy, and remarkable ability to understand human emotions made him a beloved member of the family. His talents didn’t go unnoticed.

Max’s quick learning and natural charisma caught the eye of Producing Artistic Director of Barter Theatre, Katy Brown.

“Max and I were enjoying a walk in Abingdon. Max loves going on walks, and he does have quite the strut. Out of the corner of my eye I saw a woman get out of her car. It was a red light, and she was running up to Max and I. Wondering what was going on, I took off my headphones to make sure everything was ok,” Smith explained. “She quickly shared her involvement with Barter and told me about Barter doing the Wizard of Oz! She said ‘Your dog looks just like Toto so I had to come see if there was any chance he would be interested!’

“I was so excited! I had just seen To Kill A Mockingbird and knew the magic the Barter was capable of. Max and I do “tricks for treats” every morning, so I proudly showed her his routine. We quickly exchanged phone numbers, and she ran back down the block to get back in her car.”

Smith continued that Max and her finished their walk, as she imagined his future as a star. Sure enough, in February Katy called the duo back and Max had his audition shortly after.

“Max has a lot of persona in a small package, so he shined at his audition. He

likes to please others, and LOVES treats. It was really meant to be!” Smith said. “Max is used to being the star in our home, so that translates well to the stage. He loves people, and is known to sit on laps

rule in place that only the folks handling Max interact with him backstage and at rehearsals to make sure that those are his favorite people. It must be hard for everyone else, because he is soooo cute!”

and gaze deeply into your eyes. I think that in his head, all the applause is for him. Which he loves.”

Off the stage, Max was just as wonderful.

His affectionate nature brought joy to everyone he met, from his fellow actors to the theater staff. Max had a way of sensing when someone needed a little extra love, offering a nuzzle or a playful bark to lift their spirits. His presence was a reminder of the simple, profound joys that life can offer, even in the busiest of times.

When the theater announced auditions for The Wizard of Oz, the role of Toto seemed tailor-made for Max. But the path to the stage wasn’t easy. Max had to train rigorously, mastering cues and navigating the bustling world of the theatre. He faced long rehearsals and complex choreography, all while maintaining his infectious enthusiasm and wagging tail. Through it all, Max’s unwavering determination and boundless spirit won the hearts of the cast and crew.

“He is almost too comfortable on stage at this point. During one show, he did his full grooming routine during ‘Somewhere Over the Rainbow,’ Smith laughed. “My favorite moment was during one of the rehearsals, when he saw his puppet for the first time.

He thought it was a real dog and wanted so badly to go meet him. If you haven’t seen the puppet yet, make sure to check it out.

The puppet looks exactly like Max if he went to Oz. The eyes are so on point- huge and emotive.”

To prepare for the role of Toto, Max went to some rehearsals and became acquainted with the folks who would be handling him on stage.

“At home, we started calling him Toto to get him used to it. The actors interacting with him on stage made sure to give him lots of love and treats. There is one scene where Max comes out to Dorothy while she is laying on the ground post-tornado, and one trick is that they make sure he knows that she has a treat in her hand before she goes out on stage,” Smith noted. “There is also a

“The most rewarding part of this experience is participating in all the greatness that is the Barter. Seeing such artistry and culture alive and well in Appalachia is inspiring. And fun! I hope to stay friends with some of the folks I have met,” Smith said. “Everyone involved in the production has been so kind and welcoming, not a dud in the bunch. It has been so fun for Max, too. He loves people and we joke that it’s almost like doggy day care in a way. He’s always smiling and wagging his tail when I pick him up.”

As the lights dimmed and the curtain rose on opening night, Max stood poised and ready, embodying the faithful Toto with every fiber of his being. His journey to the stage had been anything but easy, yet here he was, a testament to the power of perseverance and the magic that can happen when a little dog dreams big.

“I’m proud of him for being himself and for being the best Toto around!” Smith announced.

For more information on how to see Max in Barter’s The Wizard of Oz, visit: bartertheatre.com/big-shows/thewizard-of-oz/

21

After his Academy Award nominated performance as Ken (a name I’m partial to) in “Barbie,” Ryan Gosling is back on the big screen in “The Fall Guy.” The film is loosely based on the popular 1980’s television series of the same name. Gosling stars as Colt Severs, a talented Hollywood stuntman who works as a stunt double for action film star Tom Ryder (Aaron TaylorJohnson). While filming a stunt in Ryder’s latest film, Severs is severely injured and leaves his career and abandons his girlfriend Jody Moreno (Emily Blunt), who is a camerawoman. Flash forward eighteen months later and Severs is working for a small Mexican restaurant as a valet in order to make a living.

Severs is eventually contacted

by Ryder’s film producer Gail Meyer (Hannah Waddingham), who reveals his ex-girlfriend is directing her first film, the science fiction epic “Metalstorm” starring Ryder, and she wants him to join them for filming in Sydney.

Severs is intrigued, and agrees to the job, but after arriving

Pop Life

By Ken Silvers theloaferonlineprint @gmail.com

in Sydney discovers his former love never wanted him there.

Moreno is still angry about being cast aside by her former love after his accident. The two eventually agreed to work together again, but not after Moreno makes Severs do a dangerous stunt many times as an act of vengeance against her former love. Of course, we all know they will reunite, but not before some clever bantering and teasing takes place. While the former lovers are trying to reunite, Severs is sent to find Ryder who doesn’t show up on set one day, and Meyer reveals to Severs that their star has gotten in trouble with drug dealers and has disappeared.

Severs manages to track Ryder down after being attacked by Ryder’s actress girlfriend Iggy (Teresa Palmer) at Ryder’s apartment. Eventually Severs is led to a nightclub where he meets Ryder’s drug dealer and matters really become dangerous. Severs is drugged and later kidnapped, and it’s revealed Ryder has been involved in a crime that could sink his career. After several fights, boat and car chases, Ryder is told to come back to the set for some additional filming not realizing Severs and Moreno have hatched a plot to bring down the star, despite interference from producer Meyer. Let’s just say Ryder is very involved in a stunt and is shocked to be in the presence of the presumed deceased Severs. The filming is eventually completed, the film is a hit after a surprise casting change and Severs and Moreno are happily together once more. Surprisingly the

film has a slow start, but once the action kicks in, the film is high octane fun. Gosling with his understated wit, is great as the heroic stuntman, and his chemistry with co-star Blunt is great, and she holds her own against the star power of Gosling. This film is just pure fluffy fun disguised as a crime thriller, and when laughs are combined with action, they

form the right ingredients for a warm season film at the theater.

If you want a film involving little concentration, which I consider a summer “cotton candy” film, then “The Fall Guy” is your ticket. You will also enjoy the surprise cameos by a couple of actors. (Rated PG-13)

theloafer.net | July 16th, 2024

The Fall Guy

theloafer.net | July 16th, 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

Summer is not my favorite time of the year. I am not built for the heat.

Fall? That’s when I shine. Summer reminds me that Fall, and more importantly, Halloween, are on their way. Yet, Summer is still a time that does fill me with happy memories, in the way that Summer is intrinsically linked with childhood. That blessed break between school years, the Saturdays spent going to the movies, and summer vacations with family.

home and turned off when you were done with it. Something I miss sometimes. Seeing what the promises and hopes of the internet have turned into is something that those of us who remember when it was a wonderland of awe find rather depressing.

The king of the ‘90s kid slip and slide was, without question, Crocodile Mile. I didn't have one, but a friend in the neighborhood did. The commercial was a staple of breaks The heat, particularly this between “Rugrats.” and "Double overbearing, downright oppressive Dare." It wasn’t anything super kind we’ve been experiencing special, but the ad made it seem all lately, reminds me of one thing in the more exciting. It had that cache particular. The humble slip and of cool that meant if you had it, you slide. It never mattered how much you kept watering the length of vinyl had arrived in the kid world. What made Crocodile Mile different from material laid out in your back yard, other, pedestrian slip and slides, was if you had that thing out under the what it had at the end of the slide. hot July sun for more than an hour, It was a long stretch of blue vinyl. it’d be hot and you’d quickly go But at the end was a sliced curtain from “Oh, this is fun” to “Oh, this that had a cartoon crocodile with is rather uncomfortable.” his mouth open. Just after that was Not that it ever mattered. You’d a little air pillow “bump” which hose it down and slide again. We would send you upwards just a bit were feral kids in the age of the so you’d make a nice big splash pre-internet world, then even as the into the shallow pool behind the internet began, it was still something that stayed in one location in your

Batteries Not Included

By Andy Ross theloaferonlineprint @gmail.com

curtain. I was never the most coordinated child, nor am I the most coordinated adult human person. So despite the simple instructions of “run, slide, splash,” I’d sometimes not quite get it right.

I’d run just fine, but my over/ under on the slide part is what was tricky. Sometimes I’d get it right and splash down just perfectly.

But more times than not, I’d get off angle and wind up moving to the right or left on the slide. This meant that sometimes I wouldn’t even make it down to the crocodile. I’d fling myself off and wind up landing just before it in the dry grass. Which isn’t fun as then you’d have to stop and hose yourself off from all the blades of grass that would stick to your torso.

The most embarrassing one, however, is the one that sometimes haunts me on those nights when I can’t sleep so I think of every embarrassing thing I’ve ever said or done. It was another turn at Crocodile Mile on a day where I had lost count of how many times I had slid on the thing. I had just cooled

myself off with a Capri Sun and off I went to run. The running was fine, the landing, was fine. I was even mostly in the right direction.

Then it hit me. Literally. My trajectory was off just enough that when I slanted to the right I crashed smack dab into the side of the rods which held up the little curtain. My body twisted sideways and I sort of slid through the curtain into the splash pool, taking it down with me as I landed. There were mostly laughs, no one rushed to see if I was fine, if I had injured myself on a Crocodile Mile slip and slide I would have had to move and never speak to anyone again.

But still, sometimes on these hot days, I think of how nice it would be to maybe throw some uncomfortable, hot vinyl sheeting out in the backyard and see how I could do today. I don’t know that I’d be any better, but at least I won’t have a curtain at the end to worry about crashing into. Happy Summer, see you next week.

theloafer.net | July 16th, 2024

Slip, Slide, and Crash

Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park JULY 2024 EVENTS

Come Share in the Glorious Cause of Liberty!

Liberty!

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