The Loafer February 13th by The Loafer

theloaferonline.com | February 13, 2018

on the cover

Volume 32 • Issue #11 Publisher Luci Tate

Cover Design Bill May Advertising Patti Barr Paul Kavanaugh Janie Jarvis Carolyn Kestner Office Coordinator Amanda Lane

Contributing Staff Jim Kelly Andy Ross Ken Silvers Mark Marquette Brian Bishop Daniel Worley Jason Worley Langley Shazor Jon Lester Lee Sowers Distribution Jerry Hanger Teresa Hanger Published by Pulse Publishing, LLC., P.O. Box 3238, Johnson City, TN 37602 Phone: 423/283-4324 FAX - 423/283-4369 www.theloaferonline.com info@theloaferonline.com e-mail: editorial@theloaferonline.com adcopy@theloaferonline.com All advertisements are accepted and published by the publisher upon the representation that the agency and/ or advertiser is authorized to publish the entire contents and subject matter thereof. The agency and/or advertiser will indemnify and save the publisher harmless from any lossof expense resulting from claims or suits based upon contents of any advertisement, including claims or suits for defamation, libel, right of privacy, plagiarism, and copyright infringement.

Founder: Bill Williams Let’s Get Social!

columns & reviews

Social Media Manager Jon Lester

18 Stargazer Rocket Men are Igniting Space Fever Part 1 19 Skies This Week 20 Batteries Not Included Mars Ain't The Kind of Place to Drive Your Car 23 Pop Life The Shape of Water 27 The Casual Word Shards of Glass 28 Puzzle Page 31 Kelly’s Place Too Big To Know Appalachian Wanderers are out "wandering"

your week’s line-up

Digital Dating

Editor Graphic Arts Director Don Sprinkle

4 Mister Dating in the Digital World 5 Last Minute V-Day Gift Ideas 7 All Things Anime 9 BCM presents Lauren & Jason Morrow 10 Dino-Light @ NPAC 11 Simple Elegance Bridal Show 12 Advocate Artist 13 Tri-Cities Win Big in Wine Competition 14 Valentine's Dinner & Swing Dance 15 Nora Jane Struthers @ The Willow Tree 15 Sweetheart Tea 16 Spotlight 21 Contra Dance & Cupcake Contest 24 Geocaching @ Bays Mtn Park 25 ETSU Theatre & Dance presents 'The Flick' 25 Bright Star hits the Barter Stage 26 Auditions for Chitty Chitty Bang Bang 26 Paramount Partners 29 Pets Of The Week 30 Things To Do

theloaferonline.com | February 13, 2018

Me d Ad be? y Ma

____________________ Top Dating Apps of 2017 and 2018 ____________________

Tinder Match Bumble Zoosk OkCupid eharmony PlentyOfFish Badoo Grindr Her Scruff

! t z z T ! t z Tzzt! Tz Ah, you hear that? That is the sound of a romantic text being sent through a smartphone.

SWISH! Mister

By Jon Lester jlester@ theloaferonline.com

And that was money being sent via Facebook Messenger to a lady-in-waiting—or, a man—the 21st century does have a catfishing problem. Nevertheless, that iswas thelaunched world weand are revolutionized living in...we arehow In 1995, Match.com dating the digital world. societyinviewed dating. Since then, hundreds of websites and apps—catering to those who where more partial to dating digitally—have been created; and will continue to grow in the years to come. And with that growth, changes in how we date digitally has changed. No more are we conversing traditionally: whether it be getting to know your three love interests—three way calling was a thing, you know—to connecting face to face at your most-beloved local establishment; that protocol of dating has forever perished. However, the dawn of a new dating age is soon approaching. [insert typing awareness indicator bubble]

September 12, 2012, the social search mobile app, Tinder, was launched; thus, was the app that led the rise in mobile dating apps. Now, hundreds (possibly even thousands) of dating apps are accessible, allowing a user to connect with thousands of other hopeless romantic hopefuls. And with the dawn of a new dating age, new rules are born, needing to be implemented. But what Dos and Don'ts are required for the Tinder Age for Tinder Love?

DO post a reasonable amount of photos DO make sure your main profile photo is easy on the eyes; meaning: DON'T post a blurry photo DO text more than once DON'T text more than once before a reply DO show your good qualities in your profile DON'T just list your good qualities in your profile DO incorporate something that interests you from the other person's profile into your first line DON'T just say, "Sup"

Do Date Digitallyal world.

Anti-Valentine’s Day Party

JCPL Feb. 13 6-7:30pm

re you tired of the mushy romance of Valentine's Day? Teens ages 12-18 are invited to an Anti-Valentine's Day Party at the library! Join us for food, games, crafts, and other surprises guaranteed to be way more fun than any candlelit dinner. This event is free to attend and registration is required. Register for this event at the library, by phone, or through our e-calendar at www.jcpl.org.

Valentine’s Day is upon us once again. It’s ok if your one of those waits til the last minute in a mad frantic to buy your loved one something. We all do it. Let us give you some last minute ideas to save you some time. And gas. Be it male or female gift, I’m sure you can find something in this week’s Loafer that will make your beloved say “WOW”.

Side note: MEN -- We know very well that Valentine’s Day doesn’t particularly matter to you, but making it matter to you, simply and solely for her…now that’s a guy worth being with. We know. February 14th could not be less stereotypically masculine if it tried. Although this holiday may not be about you, it is in fact, for you. It doesn’t have to be costly. It doesn’t have to be about lavishing her in gifts. Just acknowledge her that day. Give your crush or girlfriend or fiancé or wife or partner, either a taste or a reminder (women love being reminded) of your ability to care about things not because you care about them, but because you care about her….and she cares about things. Get it? So acknowledge the day. Accept the day. Make it about her. And let her make it about you, if she wants.

Chocolate Grenade

Curl up and read a good book together!

Let Her Choose! Hair or Body Gift cards available

Do something creative together! Starting at $20

It doesn't have to be Flowers!

Pottery Pigs - $20

The Alternative Sport - Ad on page 8

Tree Necklace Locally made gifts. 14% off Red Prices

Something as simple as lash extensionscan make a girl “flutter” Just Flirtin’ Set $195

Decorative, Handmand Pillows - $22

Cornucopia - Ad on page 14

Let him man up for a day. Grab him a VIP card - Only $50 Includes 5 field passes and 5% off all paint purchases and more

Sher Extensions- Ad on page 24

Mr. K's Used Books - Ad on page 12

Cindy Saadeh Gallery - Ad on page 13

Cherie's Boutique- Ad on page 8

Results Salon & Spa- Ad on page 6

Enchanted Florist - Ad on page 21

No lady will be upset when you hand her Glo-Minerials. $30 and up Changes Med Spa - Ad on page 15

Kiln' Time Ceramic Studio - Ad on page 7

Brixey Studios - Ad on page 8

Do it together with a Couples Massage - $110 Austin Springs Spa - Ad on page 26

20% Off Jewelry

Décor Exchange - Ad on page 13

theloaferonline.com | February 13, 2018

Last Minute Valentine's Gift Ideas

theloaferonline.com | February 13, 2018

More Last Minute Valentine's Gift Ideas

Are you the last minute shopper? That’s ok. We’ve got some suggestions to make your shopping easy and save on gas.

Romantic night away at General Morgan Inn Greeneville Rooms starting at $145 - Ad on page 10 OR

Holiday Inn Bristol - Ad on page 14

Go see an awesome play before or after dinner. Ummmm Yes Please

She’ll be on Cloud Nine with these ideas on Valentine’s.

Take her for a mani or pedi.

Go for a little drive to Abingdon and checkout the winner of Best BBQ in SW VA.

Brooklyn Grill - Ad on page 8

Whether your taste be Steak, Seafood or Pasta, you can find a plate that delights.

Phil’s Dream Pit - Ad on page 20 Nothing says “I Love You” Like the best plate of BBQ Mid City Grill - Ad on page 20

This is a perfect stop for the fresh made desserts for that special someone.

Have you checked out the best new eatery in Kingsport? Take him/her somewhere new at Caddy’s Cuisine & Catering - Ad on page 6

Barter Theatre - Ad on page 19

Simply Nails - Ad on page 12

Bone Fire - Ad on page 21

Spend Valentine’s Day Chicago Style at The Angry Italian - Ad on page 9 Offering a 14” heart shaped Shrimp Alfredo Pizza and so much more.

Rooms starting at $89.00

About Face Aesthetics - Ad on page 11 Bank her some Botox . She will love you forever.

Where to dine on Valentine’s.

Wanna go the Healthy Route? What about a Gift Card?

Natural Foods Market - Ad on page 11

1 Appetizer, 1 Specialty Pizza, your choice of dessert and two glasses of champagne for just $40.00

Rock’s Wood Fired Pizza - Ad on page 8

Wanna Wine on Valentine?

Or maybe just a cocktail or beer….maybe even a little dancing? Patronize Country Club Bar & Grill in Bristol, Woodstone Deli in Kingsport or Holston River Brewing Co off the Bristol Highway. All are great places to end your evening.

Several student organizations at East Tennessee State University are working together to bring ‘nerd culture’ to campus Feb. 17 and 18. The sixth annual ETSU-Con is a celebration of pop culture, comics, anime, fantasy and science fiction for fans of all ages. “We strive to bring some of the biggest and most entertaining in ‘nerd culture’ to campus, ranging from voice actors to game developers, and animators,” said Zack James, ETSU-Con chairperson. “Additionally, we also shine the spotlight on particular programs of study such as Japanese, digital media and theater, among others.” Virtual characters will come to life at the D.P. Culp University Center. Con-goers are encouraged to take part in the cosplay (character costume) contest with categories ranging from top novice costume to best craftsmanship. Special guests include cosplayers Hanging Zodiiac, Sparrow Moose and Crash Candy Cosplay. “Whether you enjoy comics, video games, anime, we think you'll find something to enjoy at our show,” James said. “Our group works hard to bring an enjoyable and memoryfilled weekend not just for ETSU, but the entire Tri-Cities community and beyond.” Voice actors Nolan North and Courtenay Taylor will greet fans at ETSU-Con. North was cast as Dr. Chris Ramsey in the General Hospital spin-off, Port Charles. Today, he is best known for voicing Nathan Drake in the “Uncharted” video game series. Taylor is known for her work as “The Female Survivor” in the video game “Fallout 4.” Video game tournaments will begin at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 17, and include Super Smash Bros., Team Smash, Overwatch, League of Legends and Hearthstone. There will also be a vendor hall and panels led by special guests. Each attendee is guaranteed at least one free autograph. ETSU Con is sponsored by the Student Government Association, Buctainment, and the Buc Anime Club. The event is free for ETSU students. The public can purchase weekend passes for $25 through Thursday, Feb. 15 at midnight or $35 at the door. Emergency responders and active military get in free with valid ID, and admission is free for children 10 and under. To purchase tickets, visit www.etsu.edu/etsucon. For more information, email etsuconofficial@gmail.com. For disability accommodations, call the ETSU Office of Disability Services at 423-439-8346.

theloaferonline.com | February 13, 2018

All Things ANIME

theloaferonline.com | February 13, 2018

RTE 23 Listening Room Series

theloaferonline.com | February 13, 2018

LAUREN & JASON

MORROW of The Whiskey Gentry

Comes to Bristol & Wise

he Birthplace of Country Music (BCM) proudly presents the husband and wife duo of Lauren and Jason Morrow as part of its RTE 23 Listening Room concert series, performing two shows on two nights in two unique venues. On Friday, February 16 the couple will perform in the "acoustically perfect" Performance Theater at the Birthplace of Country Music Museum in Historic Downtown Bristol. One week later on Saturday, February 24 the Listening Room series returns to the intimate space at The Inn at Wise in Wise, Virginia. Many will recognize Lauren and Jason from the critically acclaimed Americana group The Whiskey Gentry, a favorite act at the annual Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion music festival. The Atlanta-based band is a rootsy blend of alternative country, honky-tonk, and bluegrass highlighted by Lauren's soaring, pristine vocals. The RTE 23 Listening Room series is the brain child of Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion Music Committee member David Stallard, who also helps organize the series and the RTE 23 Music Festival. "I have been a fan of The Whiskey Gentry for years and have been lucky enough to have seen them live many times," said Stallard. "At this year's Bristol Rhythm & Roots

Reunion, Jason and Lauren opened a set with a few songs by themselves. It was magical. I knew then and there that I wanted to hear a full show with just the two of them. I am really excited about these shows we have coming up!" Tickets to The RTE Listening Room: Lauren and Jason Morrow shows on February 16 at the Birthplace of Country Music Museum and February 24 at the Inn at Wise are $10 in advance and $12 at the door. Doors open in both venues at 6:30 p.m. EST, music begins at 7:00 p.m. Tickets are on sale now at BirthplaceOfCountryMusic.org.

theloaferonline.com | February 13, 2018

Dino-Light A Glow-in-the-Dark Experience

ildlyinventiveLightwireTheatercombinespuppetry,danceandelectroluminescence for a unique theater experience and brings Dino-Light to the Niswonger Performing Arts Center on February 16th at 6:30 p.m. Using only electroluminescent (EL) wires bent into various shapes and manipulated by the performers, the cast of Lightwire can create entire worlds. A recipient of the prestigious Jim Henson Foundation Grant, Dino-Light has been praised for its cutting-edge blend of puppetry, technology, and dance by audiences all over the world. Dino-Light is the first feature-length theatrical production created and performed by creators Ian Carney and Corbin Popp. In family friendly Dino-Light, a famous scientist with magic powers brings a friendly dinosaur to life. When the curious dinosaur wanders away from home, he discovers a wonderful world full of creatures that light up the darkness and help him find the true meaning of love. Lightwire Theater has been hailed as “Absolutely Amazing,” by Rolling Stones magazine and “An eyepopping display of storytelling like nothing else you’ve seen,” by BroadwayWorld.com. In 2012, Lightwire Theater was featured in America’s Got Talent (season 7) as a semi-finalist, which launched them into the national spotlight. Since then, Lightwire Theater has been fortunate to travel internationally, sharing their unique brand of storytelling with audiences of all ages, cultures and backgrounds. Two school day educational performances will also be presented for students in grades K-5. Please contact Jill Reeves at 423-639-1328 or by emailing jreeves@npacgreeneville.com for more information. Go on an illuminating adventure with Dino-Light on Friday, February 16th at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $15 for Orchestra and Mezzanine seating and $10 for balcony seats. Tickets may be purchased online at NPACgreeneville.com, in person at the NPAC box office, or by calling 423-638-1679. NPAC offers online seat selection with no processing or delivery fees. There is an additional $1.50 ticketing fee per ticket regardless of purchase method. The box office hours are Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. The 1150 seat performing arts center is located adjacent to the campus of Greeneville High School. For venue information, and to purchase tickets, please visit www.npacgreeneville.com.

Studies published in the Archives of Internal Medicine reveal that continual use of acid-suppressing drugs commonly used for acid reflux (PPIs) can have long-term adverse side effects. Reduced stomach acid inhibits the digestion of essential nutrients and impedes the body’s defenses against infection.

Bridal Show

oon-to-be-married couples and their guests are invited to the Simple Elegance Bridal Show hosted by Simple Elegance Tennessee Photography on February 18 from 12:30 to 3:00 at the Jonesborough Visitors Center in Jonesborough TN. "As always, we want the bridal show to be informative and fun, so we have activities that brides and grooms-tobe will find different from other bridal shows," said Mathew Wooten co-owner of Simple Elegance Tennessee. " At the show, brides will be able to finalize plans for their special day all in one place or just gather ideas. Many TriCities preferred wedding vendors will be exhibiting their goods and services— venues, bakers, caterers, photographers, DJs, and more. During the Simple Elegance Bridal Show, door prizes will be given to attendees. Every soon-to-be-married couple will receive a giveaway tote that contains savings and gifts. One lucky bride will win $300 off her wedding gown from Southern Belle Bridal. One couple will win a wedding cake from Another Touch Bakery. Follow the Simple Elegance Bridal Show on Facebook and Instagram for more info about exhibitors, gifts, and prizes. Tickets for the Simple Elegance Bridal Show are $6.00 at the door or guests can pre-register online at simpleelegancebridalshow.com to save $2.00 per person and double their chances to win the grand prize. More information about the show, including the latest list of participating vendors, is online at simpleelegancebridalshow.com or you can call 423.930.8215. The Simple Elegance Bridal Show is connecting couples with highly regarded local wedding professionals who are ready help make their wedding dreams come true while staying within their budget.

Researchers at Johns Hopkins Univ. found in two different studies (with 240,000 patients from 1997 to 2014) that PPI users were up to 50% more at risk in developing chronic kidney disease. Prolonged reduced magnesium levels with the use of PPIs is thought to impair function of the kidneys.

The medical journal, Lancet, has reported that Deglycyrrhizinated Licorice (DGL) effectively promotes gastric healing without suppressing acid production or interfering with digestion. DGL stimulates the production of the body’s own natural protective substance called “secretin”, which helps guard against acid reflux by strengthening the gastric mucosa. As always, we guarantee your satisfaction.

Locally Owned for 36 Years

Couples Valentine’s Day Class

Festivals

Got an event coming up?

Events Build a Date Box

Send it to The Loafer! info@theloaferonline.com

Concerts

Exhibits

Skillville

224 W Market St. JC Skillvillejc.com Feb. 14

orget the fancy dinner and give your special someone an experience this Valentine's Day! Build a box, decorate it with paint or stencils and then fill it date night ideas. This will last longer than flowers and chocolates and it's a fun way to work together as a couple. $60 per couple.

theloaferonline.com | February 13, 2018

Simple Elegance

theloaferonline.com | February 13, 2018

Advocate Artist

Widow paints clear picture of health care openness from patient perspective, guest for annual ‘Evening’

egina Holliday paints the health care picture from a different perspective – the patient’s. Clocks have no hands – because of the suspended reality of hospital stays. Nurses at their computers peer at a dark screen – because records aren’t being shared with patients and families. A doctor has her hands tied – because the parts of the health care system don’t communicate with each other. Silos crack and burn. Holliday’s artistic focus shifted from the classroom to the hospital room after her experiences with a husband dying of kidney cancer in 2009 where she was denied access to his medical records and crucial information as he was admitted to five different hospitals over his last 11 weeks of life. Since then, she has painted murals of her husband’s hospital room and belatedly obtained medical chart on building walls. She has painted the health care stories of nearly 500 other people on jackets, in what she calls The Walking Gallery of Healthcare, and she has spoken at scores of medical conferences, to advocacy groups, doctors and policy makers whenever and wherever she can. Holliday will bring her perspectives and her story on Thursday, Feb. 15, at 7 p.m. in East Tennessee State University’s Martha Street Culp Auditorium, for ETSU’s annual An

Evening of Health Wellness & the Arts. An Evening is co-sponsored by the ETSU Mary B. Martin School of the Arts, the College of Public Health and the Quillen College of Medicine. A catered reception will follow the talk and Q&A. Holliday’s bold, public advocacy for what she calls “digital medical record transparency” also has inspired comparisons to Rosa Parks, whose brave stand on a bus in 1955 triggered a bus boycott and eventually public transit desegregation in Montgomery, Ala. “The protest organized by Regina Holliday over a patient’s right to access their medical information is not quite the same magnitude as agitating for integration in 1950s-era Alabama,” says Michael Millenson in Forbes magazine. “Yet there are intriguing similarities between the crusade Rosa Parks launched then and what Holliday is attempting today. Both involve a refusal to accept second-class status and a resolve to push back against entrenched institutions … “Also like Parks, Holliday is part of a larger community that shares a similar outrage over being relegated to the back seat, even if in the doctor- and hospital-dominated world of health care, the ‘back of the bus’ is symbolic rather than literal.” “I have watched [Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health] legislation morph and change,” she says. “Patient access to data at

stage one of Meaningful Use had budding teeth and at stage two, it got poor-fitting dentures. I have watched the [Affordable Care Act] become the law of the land, only to see constant steps to repeal it. Yet, the crusader perseveres. She continues to paint new walking murals with new health care stories and she continues to travel and speak out. “I speak a lot nationally about health care and I speak about Fred and how he was treated,” says the now-single mother of two sons, “and every single time I speak, somebody gets up and hugs me afterward and they’re crying because the same thing just happened to them.” Whether it’s through a painting or a presentation, Holliday calls it “providing a patient voice … and by doing so, [we are] are changing the conversation.” For more information on Regina Holliday, visit her Medical Advocacy Blog at http://reginaholliday.blogspot.com. For more information on this event or Mary B. Martin School of the Arts, visit www.etsu.edu/martin, @artsatetsu or call 423-439-8587.

theloaferonline.com

Tri-Cities

WIN BIG

in TVOS Wine Competition

13 theloaferonline.com | January 23, 2017

stablished in 1973, the Tennessee Viticultural and Oenological Society (TVOS) holds an annual wine competition for amateur or hobby home wine and mead makers. The Tri-Cities area is always well-represented; in 2016 and 2017 about half of all the wines entered were crafted in the Tri-Cities area, and most of these were made from fresh fruit. East Tennessee is particularly well-suited for grape growing, with several established vineyards in the area. TVOS, an organization dedicated to promoting the art and science of grape growing (viticulture) and winemaking (oenology), boasts many active members in the Tri-cities and the 2015 Annual Conference was held in Kingsport. Amateur winemakers and hobbyists are forging the way for the winemaking and grape-growing industry in Tennessee. Prior to Prohibition, Tennessee was a major producer of grapes and wine. It was not until the 1970s before the state laws were changed, sanctioning commercial wineries, and these laws were championed by amateur winemakers who later went on to open some of Tennesseeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first commercial wineries. TVOS was instrumental in authoring and promoting the viticulture legislation passed in the 1970s. Today the wine industry is quietly growing, and wineries continue opening all across the state, with progress toward acknowledging the stateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s winemaking regions as American Viticultural Areas (AVAs). TVOS offers educational opportunities for any level of winemaker or wine enthusiast at the Annual Conference, which is coming up on the first weekend of March in Pigeon Forge. Educational sessions include guided wine tastings with seasoned wine judges, fermentation experts teaching about wild yeasts, and local grape growers sharing tips for propagating and caring for the vineyard. Every Annual Conference concludes with a banquet, during which the Award Ceremony takes place. During the Award Ceremony, the winemakers who submitted their wines and meads to the competition receive their medals and other honors, like the Winemaker of the Year Award. Five of the last seven Winemaker of the Year Awards went to a Tri-Cities resident! The Harry & Lora Westcott By Keisha Card Scholarship is also awarded during the banquet to a Tennessee college student. While providing educational opportunities and the promotion of the grape and wine industry in Tennessee is the mission of TVOS, the focus is always on fun and friendship between local wine enthusiasts and growers. To find out more about the upcoming conference, or to become involved with TVOS, visit www.tvos.org

14 theloaferonline.com | February 13, 2018

In other upcoming Valentine’s Dayrelated events at the hotel:

T Valentine’s Dinner & Swing Dance

special Valentine’s Day Dinner and Swing Dance is planned Tuesday, Feb. 13, at the historic General Morgan Inn & Conference Center, featuring the Tusculum Jazz Band and guests. A reception will be held at 6 p.m. with a cash bar, followed by an elegant dinner at 6:30 p.m. The menu features Chicken Franchaise and Smoked Pork Loin. Vegetarian options are available by calling ahead at 423-787-7500. Cost for the romantic evening is only $55 per person – or $400 for a table of eight. Tickets may be purchased at the hotel, located at 111 N. Main St. in downtown Greeneville, or by calling Tusculum College at 423-636-7303. “This is a fund raiser for the Tusculum College band program,” said Michael Brown, the hotel’s general manager. “It’s a wonderful cause -- and is a unique way to celebrate Valentine’s Day!”

he renowned Brumley’s Restaurant, located inside the hotel, will offer a special sweetheart menu on Wednesday, Feb. 14. “From hickory-smoked Angus beef tenderloin with blue crab cake to Berkshire pork osso bucco, we will offer a sophisticated menu to help celebrate the most romantic day of the year,” Brown said. An arresting assortment of appetizers include gulf oysters casino and skillet-baked brie for two, while decadent desserts include white chocolate peanut butter mousse parfaits, warm Valrhona chocolate cake, coconut vanilla panna cotta and red velvet cake rolls. Meanwhile, popular jazz musician Brim Leal will provide entertainment in the hotel’s lobby from 6-9 p.m. Special hotel packages also are being offered. “You can enjoy an evening of romance with us on Friday, Feb. 16, or Saturday, Feb. 17, for only $199, taxes and gratuities not included,” Brown said. “This special overnight stay includes a king room with complimentary champagne, truffles and a romantic dinner for two at our celebrated Brumley’s Restaurant.” To reserve the special room package, please call the General Morgan Inn at 423-787-1000.

NORA JANE

STRUTHERS and The Party Line Saturday, February 17 @

THE WILLOW TREE 216 E Main St., Johnson City 8:00 PM

thewillowtreejc.com norajanestruthers.com

Sweetheart Tea

An Early 19th century

ora Jane Struthers has written "some of the most quietly powerful narratives within the new wave of Americana artists," says Ann Powers of NPR Music. The songs that last decades and weave themselves into the fabric of listeners' lives are usually the ones in which an artist lays her soul bare for the world to hear. Struthers' new album Champion, due out October 13 on Blue Pig Records, is built on these kinds of songs. The 13-song collection is the follow-up to 2015's Wake, which earned Struthers acclaim from major outlets like NPR Music, Rolling Stone Country, and "Fresh Air." Struthers wrote and recorded the album with her longtime road band the Party Line, and the chemistry between her and the other players is palpable. There’s an honesty and energy to Nora Jane’s stage presence; a vulnerability that is part and parcel of great artistry. In one moment, she joyfully leads the audience in a dance party … in the next, she lays her soul bare for the world to hear. A performance by Nora Jane and her band is full to the brim with stellar musicianship, unexpected arrangements that blur the lines between folk, roots, and rock, and an audible sense that everyone in the room is having a damn good time. haring in the spirit of Valentine's Day, step back in time with the Sabine Hill Social Society as they host their 1st annual historically inspired Sweetheart Tea. Our guests will be served by living historians dressed in early 19th century attire while professional harpist Frieda Winters performs a medley of tunes for your enjoyment. You and your companions will dine on finger foods, appetizers, and pastries accompanied by coffee and a selection of teas. Cost is $12 per person or $20 per couple or friend. Children ages 6 - 12 years is $8. Space is limited so please make your reservations early at 423-543-5808. Come join in the fun of exploring history and our heritage with Sabine Hill Social Society! Proceeds from this event supports future educational programming at Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park

An Early 19th century Formal Sweetheart Tea Sunday, February 18 from 2 pm – 4 pm Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park Visitors Center 1651 W. Elk Aveue Elizabethton, TN 37643 www.sycamoreshoalstn.org

theloaferonline.com | February 13, 2018

Spotlight - TUESDAY - February 13 -

- FRIDAY - February 16 -

If you or your band are playing in the upcoming week and would like to be in The Spotlight, call in advance to (423) 283-4324 or go online to: theloaferonline.com. Due to last minute cancellations or changes, please call the location to confirm.

- SATURDAY - February 17 -

Stemwinder Rock’s Wood Fired Pizza & Grill

Farmhouse Ghost O’Mainnin’s Pub

The True Grass Band Down Home

Goodnight Wolf Jiggy Ray’s Pizzeria

Downtown Country Jiggy Ray’s Pizzeria

Chuck Brodsky Down Home

Somewhat Petty (Tom Petty Tribute) Capitol Theatre

Straight Eight Janet’s Place

Southern Accents (Tom Petty Tribute) Wild Wing Cafe

Pocket Change Johnson City Moose Lodge

The Phoenix Band Willoughby Ruritan

Left Lane Cruiser Sleepy Owl Brewery

Southern 76 Bristol VFW Post 6975

Nothing Special Band Bears Bar

Saul Brooks Band Quaker Steak & Lube

Lodi Quaker Steak & Lube

Jigsaw Jane Country Club Bar & Grill

Live Music Bone Fire Smokehouse

Wanted Stranger Buffalo Ruritan

The Holifields / Mind Modes Bloom Cafe and Listening Room

Shooter Band Kingsport Eagles

7 Band CJ’s Sports Bar

Hip Gypsy Wolf Hills Brewing

Motion Hotel Sleepy Owl Brewery

Oscar Harris Model City Tap House

Folk Soul Revival The Willow Tree Coffeehouse & Music Room

Sundown Country Band David Thompson’s Produce

Andy Ferrell Yee Haw Brewing Company

Appalachian Trail Bluegrass Band Carter Family Fold

Asylum Suite Woodstone Deli

Victor Lawson w/ Boogie Chillin’ Damascus Brewery

James Meadows Holiday Inn

- WEDNESDAY - February 14 -

Open Mic The Willow Tree Coffeehouse & Music Room KT VanDyke Harvest Table Restaurant - THURSDAY - February 15 -

Tri Cities Jazz Wellington’s Restaurant Live Music Bone Fire Smokehouse Rylee Peters Blackbird Bakery Ryan Ward Yee Haw Brewing Company Volk Sleepy Owl Brewery Andy Buckner Renaissance Arts Center & Theatre The Tides Rock’s Wood Fired Pizza & Grill Donny and the Dry Heavers Model City Tap House Rusty Steele Woodstone Deli - FRIDAY - February 16 -

The Jake Silver Band w/ JB 5 n Dime Capone’s David Webb’s Burning Bush The Hideaway

Moose Roberts, The Monkey Paws with Mark Porkchop Holder Holston River Brewing Company Railway Express Country Club Bar & Grill James Meadows CJ’s Sports Bar Crazy Like Lexi Woodstone Deli - SATURDAY - February 17 -

Rusty Steel & Quarterbounce Wild Wing Cafe Sterling Springs / HipGypsy Bad Mouth Molly Capone’s

Stone Creek 4 Silver Spur

- SUNDAY - Februray 18-

Railway Express at Holston River Brewing Company Goodnight Wolf Jiggy Ray’s Pizzeria

Live Music Bone Fire Smokehouse Mike Snodgrass Band Wild Wing Cafe

Nora Jane Struthers and The Pary Line The Willow Tree Coffeehouse & Music Room

for show time & more details, visit

theloaferonline.com

Family Night Karaoke at CJ’s Sports Bar Karaoke w/ Crossroads & Josh Blevins at Dawg House Tavern Karaoke w/ Marques at The Cave Karaoke at Numan’s Karaoke w/Absolute Entertainment at Marx the Spot Karaoke w/Ron Hutchins at Zachary's Steakhouse - Kingsport

WEDNESDAY

Karaoke w/ Southern Sounds Karaoke at American Legion Karaoke at CJ’s Sports Bar Karaoke w/ DJ Brad & Top Shelf Entertainment at Quaker Steak & Lube Karaoke w/ Absolute Entertainment at Smokey Bones - Johnson City Turn the Page Karaoke at VFW Post 2108 - Johnson City

THURSDAY

Karaoke w/ Absolute Entertainment at Macado’s - Kingsport Karaoke at CJ’s Sports Bar Karaoke at Numan’s Karaoke w/ Absolute Entertainment at New Beginning’s Karaoke at Jiggy Ray's Pizzaria Karaoke w/Ron Hutchins at Zachary's Steakhouse - Kingsport

FRIDAY

Karaoke w/ Southern Sounds Karaoke at Sportsman’s Bar & Grill Karaoke w/ Shane Rouse at Bear’s Bar Karaoke at Kingsport Moose Lodge Karaoke w/ Reverb Karaoke at The Cottage Turn the Page Karaoke at VFW Post 2108 - Johnson City Karaoke w/ Absolute Entertainment at Moe’s Original BBQ Karaoke w/ DJ Brad & Top Shelf Entertainment at BoBo’s - Damascus, VA Karaoke at Elizabethton VFW Karaoke w/ DJ Marquez & Top Shelf Entertainment at Holiday Inn (Exit 7) - Bristol VA Karaoke at Numan’s

SATURDAY

Karaoke at The Horseshoe Lounge Karaoke at Kingsport Moose Lodg Turn the Page Karaoke at VFW Post 2108 - Johnson City TN Karaoke w/ Absolute Entertainment at Macado’s - Kingsport Karaoke at Numan’s

theloaferonline.com | February 13, 2018

Kara ke TUESDAY

Rocket Men SPACE FEVER

theloaferonline.com | February 13, 2018

Are Igniting Part 1

Stargazer

By Mark Marquette since 1996 stargazermarq@ gmail.com

here’s a whole new game in town as the launch of SpaceX’s Falcon Heavy has re-energized the American spirit and put the world on notice that outer space is again our new frontier. I was just three miles away for the historic Feb. 6th launch of the largest rocket in today’s world, standing in the shadow of the gigantic Vehicle Assembly Building (VAB) as Falcon Heavy roared to life on a hot, Florida afternoon. To use an often overworked adjective, “Awesome” was certainly appropriate. And being in a VIP section of Kennedy Space Center with about 1,200 other people between the famed VAB and media buildings with the legendary countdown clock was truly an amazing blessing in my long life of stargazing and worshiping space heroes. Thanks to my girlfriend, Anita Friend, a NASA contractor, and the presence of my brother, Craig Marquette, the historic launch of SpaceX’s Falcon Heavy made it one of those life events I’ll never forget. And what an event it was! Once the launch date was announced two weeks before, the Space Coast of East Central Florida became electrified with rocket fever that had not been seen since July 2011 when the last Space Shuttle Atlantis was launched. SpaceX capitalized on the moment with theatrical flair in a social media campaign that attracted more than 400 journalists and celebrities attending the inaugural Falcon Heavy launch. That included moonwalker Buzz Aldrin, Bill Nye the science guy, and a no-show by actor Harrison Ford—the “Falcon” comes from a Star Wars spaceship the Falcon Millennium. To be on the grounds of the Kennedy Space Center for such an historic voyage was true joy. The whole place had a circus atmosphere, everybody talking and entertaining themselves from entrance time at 11 am and through the more than 3-hour delay that lead to the 3:45 pm liftoff. The greatest show in rocketry was akin to the excitement of the Aug. 21st Great American Eclipse in 2017, including the usual traffic snarls on the main highways. I know the historic spaceflight will linger on the memories of tens

“There's a starman waiting in the sky He'd like to come and meet us But he thinks he'd blow our minds. There's a starman waiting in the sky He's told us not to blow it Cause he knows it's all worthwhile.” Starman by David Bowie, 1972 Album: The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars

of millions of other Americans as we witnessed another technological achievement no other nation on Earth can match. The roar of 27 rocket engines was tremendous. The beauty of a skyscraper flying off the Earth was exhilarating. And the simultaneous landing of not one, but two first stage rockets within eyesight of the empty launch pad was incredible to watch in person. But what will be remembered by most people is the rocket payload, SpaceX’s founder Elon Musk’s own Tesla roadster, convertible top down with a mannequin named “Starman” behind the driver’s wheel. The live image from earth orbit slammed YouTube with the second most watched live event ever with 2.3 million (the Red Bull Stratus jump is first with a ridiculous 8 million). The spacey tunes of David Bowie played on the radio to the deaf ears of outer space until the all-batterypowered Tesla shut down. After four hours in earth-orbit and the Tesla Roadster permanently strapped down, the third stage of the Falcon Heavy ignited again for a few minutes to reach an elliptical orbit around the Sun that reaches into the Asteroid Belt between Mars and Jupiter. The flashy red sports car has the space-suited “Starman” hanging his left arm on the door, gliding through the Solar System to a Bowie radio loop of space hits that have now transcended to interplanetary Pop Culture. The spooky Major Tom tales of “Space Oddity” and “Ashes to Ashes” as well as “Life on Mars” were played over the speakers, but not really heard as the vacuum of space won’t conduct sound—you need an atmosphere for that. A sign on the $200,000 Tesla dashboard clearly says, “Don’t Panic.” More details about the luggage for the ultimate road trip include a Hot Wheels Tesla Roadster on the dash and a copy of novelist Isaac Asimov’s “Foundation Trilogy” in the trunk.

Part 2 Next Week

ew Moon is Thursday, so the nights and mornings are dark and perfect for astrophotography. And by Saturday night the fingernail crescent will be hanging over the western horizon.

Tuesday, February 13 The Winter Octagon is on display with an amazing eight first magnitude stars and the planet Jupiter. Starting above Orion, the stars are red Aldebaran, yellow Capella, Castor, Pollux, Procyon, brightest star Sirius, Orion’s knee Rigel and shoulder Betelgeuse. Wednesday, February 14 The Lover’s Day begins with three planets strung like colored gems in the pre-dawn sky from 4:30-6 am. To the south and brightest is golden Jupiter in the constellation Cancer, rising around midnight. Left of Jupiter is reddish Mars in Scorpius, and further left close to the horizon in Sagittarius is yellow Saturn. Thursday, February 15 On this 2013 date in space history, a million Russian people dodged a bullet as a meteor exploded during the morning rush hour over the town of Chelyabinsk. The quarter-mile long cosmic interloper was at a near parallel angle when it blew up, injuring 1,500 people and doing millions of dollars damage.

Friday, February 16 The Sun enters the constellation Aquarius the Water Carrier, but astrology wrongly says the Sun is entering Pisces the Fishes, a constellation ahead. Saturday, February 17 Directly north is the Big Dipper, standing on its three-star handle. As the night wears on, the Big Dipper will empty the contents of its four-star bowl over the landscape. These seven famous stars are just part of a much larger constellation, Ursa Major, the Great Bear. Sunday, February 18 On this 1930 date in astronomy history, Clyde Tombaugh discovered “Planet X” on photographic plates after two years of intense searching. Called the ninth planet Pluto until 2006 when declassified to a “dwarf planet.” Visited by NASA’s New Horizon in July 2015, Pluto is one of the most interesting and dynamic worlds circling the Sun. Monday, February 19 On this 1986 date in space history, Russia launched the Mir Space Station, an important link between our Skylab and the 19 years the International Space Station has been occupied 250 miles overhead. Mir was deorbited in March 2001 after being visited 9 times by America’s Space Shuttle, exchanging crews and bringing supplies.

19 theloaferonline.com | February 13, 2018

THIS WEEK

SKIES

Celestial events in the skies for the week of Feb. 13 - 19, 2018 as compiled for The Loafer by Mark D. Marquette.

MARS to Drive Your Car

theloaferonline.com | February 13, 2018

Ain’t The Kind of Place

L Batteries Not Included

By Andy Ross aross@ theloaferonline.com

ast week, Tesla CEO and real-life mad scientist Elon Musk shot a car into space. Part of his SpaceX company testing the most powerful rocket in the world, The Falcon Heavy. The rocket is part of Musk’s hopes to eventually make space travel as common as taking a cross-country flight and other fun space ventures. The car is a $100,000 Tesla Roadster that was Musk’s own personal vehicle. There’s a dummy in the driver seat name Starman, the radio is playing David Bowie on a loop, and the touchscreen display says “Don’t Panic!” from “The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy.” Now let us set the scientific achievements of this off to the side for a moment—that’s really freakin’ cool! There is a car in space and it’s playing David Bowie on a loop. At first, I was a bit perplexed why anyone would shoot their own $100,000 car into space—but then I remembered that Elon Musk is worth more money than I could ever hope to have to my name (pause as I look out the window somberly while “Sound of Silence” plays). One of the hopes for the car’s stellar voyage is that it will reach Mars and enter that planet’s orbit. Now I may have some of this confused so if my science or facts on this isn’t 100%, apologies in advance. Two things occur to me as I think about this Roadster making its way to Mars. One, if it’s not playing Bowie’s “Life on Mars” when it arrives then this whole mission will have been a colossal failure. Two, I know that when this car arrives at Mars it will be greeted by a school charity car wash set up next to the Big Lots. Right now there is a classroom full of science students at every high school in the area rushing to launch their own missions to wash space vehicles so they can go to New York. This is the start of what I’m sure us humans are bound to do, create amazing intergalactic space freeways. Think of all the possibilities! I’m sure Apple or Google is working on a way to add the Crab Nebula to their map programs. Why in a decade’s time you may be saying to your iPhone “Hey Siri, I need directions to Alpha Centauri.” It may not be long before you power up your Space Roadster, make a wrong turn by Venus, and hear “In 3.1 lightyears, make a U-Turn.” I’m looking forward to Pluto Disney opening up, and I hear that they just opened a Cracker Barrel off exit 9,278 on Space-81. As we think of space travel

becoming more like regional travel, there is one VERY important question we must ask. What planets will become Space Gatlinburg and Space Myrtle Beach? Where will the first Ripley’s branded space attraction open, and who will be the first to open a restaurant in space? IHOP or Waffle House? What if I propose this not as a way to clutter up our galaxy, but as a way to show the universe how awesome we humans can be when we’re not constantly fighting one another (that’s the heavy thought line in the humor piece, folks. I’ll accept my Pulitzer now). Think of how great it will be when we greet aliens from another world not with pomp and circumstance and a military presence, but by sitting down to break bread over the legendary Shoney’s Breakfast Buffet. I want our alien friends to learn not of the wonders just of our world, our culture, and our arts—but of Gas Station hot dogs and those packs of Slim Jim that have the cheese stick and the sausage together. I hope to personally one day be able to say to the ambassador from Outer Ringmar “On behalf of the people of Earth, we welcome you! Please try one of these Pizza flavored Combos.” I, for one, welcome our new space freeways and exits packed full of convenience. Just think of how nice it will be to hear one of those ads on the radio for Motel Six saying “We’ll leave the airlock on for ya.” A new day is coming my friends. A day in which I can order a Scattered, Smothered, and Covered while having a lovely view of the rings of Saturn. See you next week.

Contra Dance &

Cupcake Contest

he Historic Jonesborough Dance Society will hold a contra dance and cupcake contest on Saturday February 17, 2018 at the Jonesborough Visitors Center, 117 Boone Street. Admission to the dance is $7 and $5 for students and children. All dances are smoke, alcohol and fragrance free. No partner is necessary. Families and children are welcome! Performing for the contra dance will be Windmill from Asheville, which consists of Laurie Fisher on keyboard and Steve Trisman on fiddle. Callers Myra Hirchberg and Tom Colwell will conduct a class for beginners at 7:00pm where newcomers and experienced dancers alike will learn the basic steps, formations and flow of contra dance. The contra dance will run from 7:30-10:30pm with the cupcake judging at 9:00pm. The cupcake contest idea comes from the enormous popularity of cupcakes, not just on the desert menu but for any kind of snack or treat time. What was once just a love for the delicious treats has now grown into a national obsession and a legitimate mainstream industry nationwide. “Our dancers love sweet treats at the break after dancing for an hour or so. A cupcake contest will meet our snack needs in a fun and creative way” offers event organizer, David Wiley. Bake and frost six or more of the cupcakes of your dreams. Bring them to the dance along with someone who has never contra danced before and they get in FREE to the dance! At the 9:00pm break, instead of Klondike Bars, we will enjoy the contestant’s offerings after judges Margie Kendall, Sheridan Nice, owner of Mona Lisa’s Gelato in Johnson City, and actress/model Chloe Zeitounian determine who has the highest level of culinary prowess. The winner and runners up will be given Cupcake Crowns and a gift certificate to a local restaurant. Contra dancing is a traditional form of American folk dance that evolved from the long ways country dances popular in English society centuries ago. Contra dance communities now thrive all over the country. There are websites that can direct you to contra dances in most states. The modern contra dances provide dancers of all ages and experience levels with the opportunity to smile, move, connect, flirt and create an evening of dance nirvana with each other. No previous dance experience is necessary. No fancy footwork is required. If you can walk and count to eight, you can contra dance! Contra dances are community events. At almost any contra you will find people of all ages and all dance skill levels, from young to old, beginner to expert. Contra dancers form a very open and welcoming group of people. You can come alone or with others since it is a tradition to dance with a variety of partners throughout the night. It is perfectly acceptable for either a man or a woman to ask someone to dance. It’s a great way to make friends with someone they haven’t met before. You will find contra dancing a great way to make new friends. For more information, contact event organizer, David Wiley, at 423-534-8879 or visit www.historicjonesboroughdancesociety.org and Historic Jonesborough Dance Society on FACEBOOK.

theloaferonline.com | February 13, 2018

Pop Life

By Ken Silvers ksilvers@ theloaferonline.com

Rated R 4 Creatures (out of 4)

SHAPE WATER

ow best to describe the current film "The Shape of Water?" Science Fiction? Fantasy? Romance? Drama? Thriller? How about all of the aforementioned. The Academy Award nominated film is certainly unique. The film features a creature straight out of a cheesy 1950's sci-fi film, but that aspect is merely a homage. The film is the story of Elisa Esposito (Sally Hawkins) and how she comes to befriend and even fall in love with a creature brought to the U.S. from the jungles of South America for study. Elisa is unique in her own way, as she was found as an infant with mysterious scars on her neck. She is also mute and communicates via sign language with the mysterious creature. The film is set in 1962 Baltimore, which one would think would be directed by John Waters, but the film is in the hands of Guillermo del Toro ("Pan's Labyrinth"), and he brings these characters to life via the world of the 1960's. The creature, a humanoid-amphibian, is being held at a secret government laboratory where Elisa works as a janitor along with her good friend Zelda (Octavia Spencer). In her home life she lives above a movie theater, where she pals around with her only other friend, Giles (Richard Jenkins), a struggling advertisement illustrator. Elisa's daily routine is turned upside down when she discovers the creature (Doug Jones in amazing makeup) and begins to communicate with him by bringing him daily treats in the form of boiled eggs. While Elisa's friendship is blossoming with her new friend, she discovers the creature is being studied, and will be euthanized in an effort to improve America's chances in the Space Race against the Soviet Union. The villain of the film is Colonel Richard Strickland

(Michael Shannon), and he is leading the effort to destroy the creature for further study, especially after the creature bites off two of his fingers. Elisa, along with her neighbor Giles, devise a plan to free the creature to prevent his death. Meanwhile, Soviet spy Dr. Robert Hoffstetler (Michael Stuhbarg) discovers Elisa's plan, and comes to her aid as he wants the creature to remain alive as well. After Elisa and Giles escape with the creature, Strickland begins his search in earnest for the missing "asset." Even though she has fallen in love with the creature, Elisa knows she must eventually release him back into the ocean for his survival. What could have lead to eventual heartbreak for Elisa and her unusual love interest, eventually results in a happy ending. Even though the film is set in Baltimore, the film has a very French feel, with a soundtrack that lends itself to any film with a Paris setting. The sets are marvelous, and you actually feel as if you have dropped into a time warp to 1962. Concerning the actors, Hawkins is nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actress, so needless to say she, along with Jenkins, a nominee for Best Supporting Actor, are at the top of their game. If there were a category for Best Creature, Jones would certainly win in a landslide. The supporting cast, led by Spencer and Shannon, bring their characters to life with perfection, and you will love Spencer's Zelda, and loathe Shannon's Strickland. Director del Toro's idea for the film was inspired from his childhood memories of "Creature from the Black Lagoon", and how he wanted the romance between said creature and his love interest in that film to blossom. What can you say about a film that has been nominated for 13 Academy Awards? In the case of "The Shape of Water", bravo!

theloaferonline.com | February 13, 2018

THE

theloaferonline.com | January 30, 2018

GEOCACHING @ Bays Mtn Park

n Tuesday, February 20, exercise both mind and body in a modern day treasure hunt at Bays Mountain Park! Caching in a Winter Wonderland is a new, outdoor program designed to help individuals learn how to use a basic GPS unit in order to play the geocaching game. Geocaching is an outdoor recreational activity, in which participants use a Global Positioning System (GPS) receiver or mobile device and other navigational techniques to hide and seek containers, called “geocaches” or “caches”, at specific locations marked by coordinates all over the world. Geocaching is a game anyone can play, and you can do it as a team, by yourself or with your family. The game is designed to be played all year long, but a small course will be set up at the park in order for guests to learn what they are looking for and how the game is played. To participate, you must provide your own GPS device. This is an outdoor program, and participants should dress comfortably and appropriately for the weather. This will be a meet and greet to talk about the geocaching game. Bring your stories and your smiles! It will begin at 4 pm and end at 4:30 pm. There will be a program happening from 3-4 pm. prior to this geoevent. It is not a requirement to log this event but you are more than welcome to join us for the fun. We will be set up in the Discovery Theater, downstairs near the fish tanks. We hope to see you!! There is a parking fee of $5 and you can learn more at their website www.baysmountain.com.

KID'S NIGHT OUT

Valentine's Day Date Night

ou deserve a Date Night Out for Valentine's Day! Bring your kids for fun, food and activities to EDGE - Dynabody of Bristol at 515 Melrose Street. Dinner will be provided! $15 includes dinner, childcare for the night and a fun time! Drop off your kids for a fun night, cookies and crafts while you enjoy your night!

CREATIVE & CRAFTY Valentine’s Day Cards Bristol Pubic Library 5:30-8pm Feb. 13

he Bristol Public Library is offering a free crafty event on February 13, 2018, during which interested participants will have the opportunity to create their very own Valentine’s Day cards. No registration is required for this project. Simply join the library in the J. Henry Kegley Meeting Room, starting at 5:30 p.m. Supplies and a limited number of pre-cut cards will be available; however, participants are welcome to bring their own supplies and ideas. To learn more, please contact the Bristol Public Library at 276-645-8780 or at ajohnson@bristol-library.org.

he Pulitzer Prize winning drama “The Flick” will open the 2018 semester at East Tennessee State University in the Bud Frank Theatre. Presented by the ETSU Department of Theatre and Dance, the show will run Feb. 16-19, with performances on Friday, Saturday and Monday evenings at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, Feb. 18, at 2 p.m. Written by Annie Baker, “The Flick” is set in a run-down movie theater in Massachusetts where three underpaid employees mop the floors and attend to one of the last 35-millimeter film projects in the state. Their tiny battles and not-so-tiny heartbreaks play out in the empty aisles, becoming more gripping than the lackluster, second-run movies on screen. The show is a hilarious and heart-rendering cry for authenticity in a fast-changing world. The four ETSU students starring in “The Flick” are Charles Clark as Sam, Francisco Rodriguez as Avery, Eulalah Prater as Rose and Hunter Thomas as Skylar/Sleeping Man. Several other ETSU students are leading the production team, including Evin McQuistion as assistant director, Levi Bradford as lighting designer, Tyler Mitchell as costume designer, Isaline Humphrey as stage manager, Taylor Hutchison as production assistant, Dylan Weston as lighting technician, Kadiesha Evans as audio technician and Ellie Burnett as wardrobe assistant. Faculty member Patrick Cronin is directing “The Flick” and is joined by colleagues Zach Olsen as technical director, Beth Skinner as costume shop supervisor and Delbert Hall as scenic designer. Tickets are $5 for students, faculty and staff with ID and $10 for general public. To purchase tickets, visit http://bit.ly/2sjsMmT or call 423-439-6524.

Barter Theatre Gets the First Production of Steve Martin & Eddie Brickell’s Musical “Bright Star” in the United States Since its Run on Broadway

or five weeks only, Steve Martin and Edie Brickell’s musical “Bright Star” will be at Barter Theatre. The Grammy awardwinning duo has collaborated again to create this gorgeous anthem to optimism. The writer, actor and musician, Steve Martin, and the singer-songwriter Edie Brickell’s production will be on Gilliam Stage from February 22nd – March 31st , for the first time in the United States since it has been on Broadway. Based on real events, this mountain musical is set in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina in the 1940s, with flashbacks to the 1920s. It all begins when a literary editor, Alice Murphy, meets Billy, a young soldier who has just returned home from World War II. The two share a mysterious connection that inspires Alice to explore her past, and what she finds has the power to transform both their lives. Join us on this journey of love, loss, and reunion. Jill Anderson, Andrew Hampton Livingston, Nick Koesters, and other Barter Theatre favorites give an outstanding performance to bring “Bright Star” to life. Producing Artistic Director Richard Rose is directing “Bright Star.” Rose says, “It is a story that reminds us that through all of the obstacles of our life, we can and will find joy.” “Bright Star” is made possible by corporate sponsor 3B Consulting Services. To purchase tickets, please visit bartertheatre.com or call 276-6283991. Tickets for all performances of “Bright Star” begin at just $20.

25 theloaferonline.com | February 13, 2018

‘The Flick’ T

BRIGHT STAR

ETSU Theatre and Dance to present

Discounts available with ticket stub day of performance

uckle up! Theatre Bristol announces auditions for Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, directed by Kenn Naegele, on March 10, 17, 18, and 19 at Theatre Bristol, 512 State Street, Bristol, TN. The classic musical about the flying car is live on stage this summer at the Paramount Center for the Arts and we invite everyone to audition. No preparation is required to audition and roles are available for men, women, and children. Show details, audition times, character list, and rehearsal dates are available at www.TheatreBristol.org/audition. Director Kenn Naegele has performed in and directed more than 60 productions in his career in New York State and Tennessee. He most recently directed Theatre Bristol's ANNIE at the Paramount Center for the Arts, and directed Theatre Bristol's production of South Pacific. Music director Steve Davis is a music and voice teacher, retired church music minister, and producer. He is the director of the currently running musical Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day at Theatre Bristol and was music director for the musical ANNIE this past fall. Chitty Chitty Bang Bang opens June 22, and runs for two weekends at the Paramount Center for the Arts, Fridays at 7:30 pm, Saturdays at 7:30 pm, and Sundays at 2:30 pm, closing on July 1. Tickets are $16 for adults plus fees and $12 for seniors and students plus fees, and will be available at www.ParamountBristol.org. Chitty Chitty Bang Bang music and lyrics are by Richard M. Sherman and Robert B. Sherman, music by special arrangement with Sony/ATV Publishing, adapted for the stage by Jeremy Sams, based on the MGM motion picture, and licensed script is adapted by Ray Roderick. Chitty Chitty Bang Bang is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI). All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI (www.MTIShows.com).

Paramount Partners

Auditions

Chitty Chitty Bang Bang

theloaferonline.com | February 13, 2018

• Bristol Station Brews & Taproom Half off first pint or flight • Broad Street on State 20% off your check of $6 or more • Stateline Bar & Grille 2 for 1 Appetizers • Studio Brew 1/2 Half off first pint Free Appetizer or dessert w/Entrée Purchase • Machiavelli’s Free order of breadsticks with any entrée • Whiskey Rebellion Half off your appetizer • J Frank Free dessert and immediate parking • The Angry Italian Half Off Toasted Ravioli Discounts valid for any and all performances at The Paramount.

What is it What am I so desperately searching Smiles Thumbs up Hearts Numbers Every spare moment spent Glued to bright screens Counting and analyzing Is it approval Do I need strangers and acquaintances Friends and family To leave evidence

The Casual Word

By Langley Shazor Follow Langley at TheCasualWord

Vividly adorned proof That I may feel better about myself I justify this constant updating Colloquially However Is it a means to an end Some vehicle to ascension A vector for success Is this not success currently Perhaps I am simply as obsessed And as vain An air of narcissism Combusted By a flame of loneliness Striving to be on par All these virtual competitors Vying for a piece Of this digital pie Am I truly a revolutionary Or a pseudo unplugging opportunist Harboring the same programmed Involuntary Identity crisis

theloaferonline.com | February 13, 2018

Shards of Glass

theloaferonline.com | February 13, 2018

Answers on page 30

Patch is a 3 month old Blue Heeler. He is neutered and up to date on all vaccines. Not only is he so cute but the sweetest boy ever! He will do best in the home with a fenced in yard.

BB is a teenage female that is spayed and up to date on all vaccines. This is the sweetest cat ever. She was abandoned and very sick when she came to The Bridge Home. Now she is fully recovered and can't get enough petting. Very loving cat!

he Bridge Home has an ongoing aluminum can collection in front of the shelter at 2061 Hwy 75 in Blountville, TN 37617 and a second aluminum can collection site at Airworks Heating and Cooling, 5633 Memorial Blvd Kingsport. The cans are collected by a volunteer and the money from the aluminum goes towards badly needed food and supplies for the animals. The Bridge Home No Kill Animal Rescue has started a pet food pantry for people that have had financial hardships because of job loss or medical problems and are struggling to feed their pet. They can come by the shelter and get cat or dog food to get through the tough time.

Donations can be sent to The Bridge Home Shelter PO Box 654 Blountville, TN 37617 Every animal in their care is spayed or neutered and fully vaccinated before being adopted. Being a non profit the shelter is funded entirely by membership dues and private donations. They always need volunteers or monetary donations. Other always needed items: pet food, cat litter & cat toys dog treats & dog toys,paper towels, cleaners, office supplies, Purina weight circles. Phone: 423-239-5237 Hours are Mon-Fri 12pm6pm Sat 12pm-3pm and Sun 2pm-4pm. Website is www.bridgehomerescue@ gmail.com or like them on Facebook: www.Facebook.com/bridgehome

29 theloaferonline.com | February 13, 2018

PETS

OF THE WEEK

theloaferonline.com | February 13, 2018

THINGS TO DO Big Brothers Big Sisters Looking for Community Volunteers Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Tri-Cities (BBBSGTC) is looking for community volunteers to make a difference in a child’s life. Spending approximately 4 hours a month with an at-risk youth can help them improve in school, their behavior and their self-esteem. “Our kids have a need, and we are looking for caring adults to step up and volunteer,” said Kathy Lowdermilk, Regional Director of BBBSGTC. “If you have a few hours a month and the desire to make a difference, we want to talk with you about our program.” Our local Big Brothers Big Sisters office is part of one of the oldest and largest youth mentoring organizations in the United States. It’s a system that has been proven to work and transforms the lives of children who might not otherwise ever get the support they need to grow and successfully meet life’s challenges. Child-volunteer matches are made based on in-depth and comprehensive interviewing with parents, children and potential volunteers. Stringent safeguards are in place to assure that all parties are safe. Volunteer and parent engagement and training also play a big role. Anyone wanting to find out more about Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Tri-Cities should contact the office by calling 423-247-3240, or visiting TennesseeBig.org. •••••••••••••••••••••••••• Blood Drive Marsh Regional Blood Center will conduct public blood drives at the area locations. Visit tinyurl. com/n4aujx9 to find a location near you. In addition to scheduled blood drives, donors are welcome at Marsh Regional’s collection centers: 111 W. Stone Drive,

Suite 300, Kingsport, 2428 Knob Creek Road, Johnson City and 1996 W. State St., Bristol. For more information about scheduling a blood drive at a local business, church, school or community organization, please call 423-408-7500, 423652-0014 or 276-679-4669 or visit marshblood.com. •••••••••••••••••••••••••• The Casual Word Adult Creative Writing Class Join us for a free, fun, engaging, and different look into writing. In this class, we will not focus on structure, form, or rules, but on the freedom of writing. It is the goal of this class to open the mind to its full creative potential by allowing participants to write what they want, how they want to write it. Sessions will be student lead; we will engage in topics and subjects that are of interest to the students. The atmosphere is casual and jovial. This class is designed for all those 18 and up who wish to try their hand at creative writing. Thursdays @ 6:00 p.m. Jones Creativity Center. Bristol Public Library. •••••••••••••••••••••••••• Tax Preparation With the financial support of Eastman Credit Union (ECU), a group of East Tennessee State University (ETSU) business student volunteers, under the guidance of accountancy faculty members Dr. Anthony Masino and Dr. Michelle Freeman, will offer free tax preparation assistance again this year through the Internal Revenue Service Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program. As an approved VITA location, the ETSU group will assist taxpayers who had $55,000 or less in income during tax year 2017. Hours have been extended for the

2017 filing season. Volunteers will be available to offer tax preparation services on the following Saturdays – Feb. 10 and 24, March 10 and 24, and April 7 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Sam Wilson Hall, room 318, on ETSU’s main campus. For more information or to make an appointment, contact Masino at 423-439-4432 or Masino@ etsu.edu or Freeman at 423-4394432 or freemanms@etsu.edu. For disability accommodations, call the ETSU Office of Disability Services at 423-439-8346. •••••••••••••••••••••••••• Astronomy Program @ JCPL Families are invited to the library’s front lawn on Friday, February 23 at 6 p.m. to observe the night sky. Dr. Rico Ignace, an astrophysicist from East Tennessee State University, will give a short presentation and be on hand to answer any questions. No registration is required for this free program. For more information about this free program or other Youth Services programs, please call 423-4344458. To learn more about this and other upcoming events, like the library’s Facebook page, or follow the library on Twitter or Instagram.

Naturalists' Rally Join Friends of Roan Mountain on Saturday, February 17th at Roan Mountain State Park for a winter celebration of the Roan Highlands! For 11 years the Winter Naturalists' Rally has drawn hardy nature enthusiasts from far & wide to Roan Mountain on the Saturday closest to Valentine’s Day. Top naturalists volunteer their time and energy to make the event both enjoyable and educational for people of all ages. For more information visit: tnstateparks.com/parks/about/ roan-mountain.

Author Talk @ Gray Library Looking for a new local author to read? Come and meet Jonesborough resident Robert T. Jones at Gray Library on Feb. 20 at 6 p.m. His new novel, Gargaphia: Where History Means Murder, is a fast-paced suspense thriller, says Jones. Jones describes himself as an author, ancient military historian, wildlife philanthropist, green business creator, and hobby farmer. He stays very active with several nonprofit groups, traveling, enjoying the outdoors, and writing in different genres for a diverse readership. Everyone is welcome to come •••••••••••••••••••••••••• listen and ask questions of the Auditions for Liberty author. Call the library at 423AUDITIONS! for the Cast of Lib477-1550 for more information. erty! The Official Outdoor Drama for the State of Tennessee. •••••••••••••••••••••••••• Sunday February 25th 2:00 p.m. Auditions for Liberty Saturday March 3rd 5:00 p.m. Contact Sycamore Shoals State The next Sew Crazy meeting will Park for more information call be held on Saturday, February 24, 423-543-5808. Also come by from 10 a.m. -2 p.m. The group to Sign up to be a member of will be meeting at Bethlehem Luthe Production Crew (Lighting, theran Church, 201 E. Watauga Sound, Props, Technical Assis- Ave., Johnson City. There is no cost to attend this meeting; sewtant, etc.) or contact the Park. Sycamore Shoals State Historic ing materials and notions are Park. 1651 W. Elk Avenue. Eliza- provided. For more information, bethton, TN 37643. 423-543-5808 please contact Donna Horowitz at 423-434-0424 or info@sew-crazy.org

Cryptogram: Some of the world's greatest feats were accomplished by people not smart enough to know they were impossible. DropQuote: "You can either hold yourself up to the unrealistic standards of others, or ignore them and concentrate on being happy with yourself as you are."

My title this week is taken from David Weinberg’s 2014 reflections on internet culture--TOO BIG TO KNOW: RETHINKING KNOWLEDGE NOW THAT THE FACTS AREN’T THE FACTS, EXPERTS ARE EVERYWHERE, AND THE SMARTEST PERSON IN THE ROOM IS THE ROOM. In addition to being a provocative look at the proliferation of online knowledge (and trivia), this book also has the distinction of having what is perhaps the longest title of any other book published in 2014.

W Kelly’s Place

By Jim Kelly since 1989 jkelly@ theloaferonline.com

einberg’s book is a good jumping-off place for a look at how the information-gathering process involved in getting this column ready has changed during the past twenty-eight years. When my first column appeared in May 1989, I set out to review movies that had recently appeared on VHS tape. My research consisted of visiting my local video store and checking out a couple of tapes. Needless to say, IMDb didn’t exist “back in the day,” and if I wanted to gather additional information about my movies, I had to consult my stack of “Entertainment Weekly” magazines, hoping there would be something there I could use (there rarely was). So, here I was with my two VHS tapes, left with only my brain to fill in the gaps. Today, of course, things have drastically changed and the information I confront each week is truly “too big to know.” Today, when I contemplate what I’m going to write about, I don’t have to go to the local video store or the library. Instead, I browse apps like Flipboard (or “Filmstruck,” the new app that lets me find rare movies like “Fiend Without A Face” that I’m watching as I write this) in search of new stuff to reflect upon. The one thing that hasn’t changed, however, is my goal of using what I find as a springboard for thinking about the larger implications of what I find. Nevertheless the “too big to know” factor is growing incrementally, making my job both much easier and overwhelming. Take Flipboard, my favorite app, for example. This neat curated app lets me create an extensive personalized list of topics that perhaps only I will find interesting. As I write this, I am looking over my curated topics that include movies, science, pop culture, jazz, ridiculous, piano, technological change, conspiracies, culture, mindfulness (yes, this one is pretty lame), literature, big data, history, big ideas, ancient history, pop music, creative writing, learning, skepticism, Miles Davis, jazz guitar, FOMO (fear of missing out), teaching, zen, personal leadership, creativity, the future, art history, Top 10, stuff and nonsense (a personal favorite), totally 80s, satire, anthropology, law, humor, books, cool stuff, industrial design, reading, 18th century, monsters, pedagogy, cognition, 17th century, Alfred Hitchcock, educational technology, 16th century, John Coltrane, problem-solving, architecture, and Jackson Pollock. And this just scratches the surface and doesn’t include the standard news chapters like “The Daily Edition” that help me finish my morning cereal each day. Where to begin? Where to end? There’s definitely enough information and inspiration here for several more years of “Kelly’s Place” columns. Sure beats the heck out of visiting the local video store, although I do miss that place and its rows and rows of little rectangular boxes, not to mention the quirky and always-intriguing people who worked there. Just for fun, and perhaps to provide some fodder for a future column, let’s take a look at a few things that can be found among the several thousand things I’ve curated. Opening up my FOMO chapter we find gems like “6 Ways To Break Your iPhone Addiction,” “This Is What Happens To Your Brain And Body When You Check Your Smartphone Before Bed,” and “21-Year-Old Woman Loses Her Eyesight After Staring At Her Smartphone For Days.” Flipping open my 16th Century folder I can get lost in articles like “Income And Working Time Of

A Fencing Master In Bologna In The 15th and Early 16th Century,” “The Grisly Werewolf Panic That Swept Europe A Century Before The Salem Witch Trials,” and “Can You Spot All The Sea Monsters In This 16th-Century Map?” If I ever need encouragement to finish my weekly column, I can open Creative Writing and find “How To Stop Worrying And Love The Process of Writing,” “A Digital Tool For Writers Seeks To Create The Perfect, Error-Free Text,” and “5 Writing Lessons From Groundhog Day.” As a musician, I often consult the Music section, and just now I can read why Quincy Jones thinks “The Beatles Were The Worst Musicians In The World,” “10 Classic Live Albums Every Music Fan Should Own On Vinyl” (I am not a vinyl fan, sorry), “The Spice Girls Were A Death Knell For Feminism-Why Would We Want Them Back?” and “Album Review: Justin Timberlake Gets Creative, Twangy, And Downright Stupid On Man Of The Woods.” In my Antarctica folder, I am curious about “Work Among The Penguins? France Is

Too

BIG To Know

Looking For Candidates,” The White Darkness: A Journey Across Antarctica,” and “Patriot Fan To Watch Game From South Pole.” In addition to Flipboard, I also frequently consult TED, Engadget, Edutopia, News360, and a new app called SmartNews. And, yes, I can’t go a day without taking a peek at IMDb (Internet Movie Database). We are already well past Too Big To Know and the sheer magnitude of what can be learned is mindboggling. Of course, my focus on pop culture will always guarantee that I never run out of topics. When faced with this glut of information we need more than ever to develop our critical thinking skills so we can do more than just stare at all this stuff. We can of course only deal with one item at a time, and must learn we can never gain a comprehensive knowledge of everything. The best we can hope for is to be highly selective. Better to reflect on and think deeply about two or three articles than to superficially peruse hundreds of others. This is, after all, our only option in a world that is Too Big To Know. See you next week. In the meantime, continue adding to your Flipboard library.

theloaferonline.com | February 13, 2018