The Loafer, December 24, 2014

Page 2, The Loafer • December 24, 2013

www.theloaferonline.com December 24, 2013 • The Loafer, Page 3

Volume 28Issue #3

www.theloaferonline.com • [email protected]: [email protected] (editorial)


“Auld Lang Syne” is a Scots poem written by Robert Burns in 1788 and set to the tune of a traditional folk song. It is well known in many countries, especially in the English-‐speaking world, its traditional use being to celebrate the start of the New Year at the stroke of midnight. By extension, it is also sung at funerals, graduations and as a farewell or ending to other occasions. The international Boy Scout youth movement, in many countries, uses it as a close to jamborees and other functions.The song’s Scots title may be translated into English literally as “old long

since”, or more idiomatically, “long long ago”, “days gone by” or “old times”. Consequently “Formight be loosely translated as “for (the sake of) old times”.The phrase “Auld Lang Syne” is also used in similar poems by Robert

Ayton(1570–1638), Allan Ramsay (1686–1757), and James Watson (1711) as well as older folk songs predating Burns. Matthew Fitt uses the phrase “In the days of auld lang syne” as the equivalent of “Once upon a time...” in his retelling of fairy tales in the Scots language.Robert Burns sent a copy of the original song to the Scots Musical Museumwith

the remark, “The following song, an old song, of the olden times, and which has never been in print, nor even in manuscript until I took it down from an old man.” Some of the lyrics were indeed “collected” rather than composed by the poet; the ballad “Old Long Syne” printed in 1711 by James Watson shows considerable

certainly derived from the same “old song”.Should Old Acquaintance be forgot,and never thought upon;

and fully past and gone:Is thy sweet Heart now grown so cold,that loving Breast of thine;

On Old long syne.CHORUS:On Old long syne my Jo,On Old long syne,

On Old long syne.It is a fair supposition to attribute the rest of the poem to Burns himself.There is some doubt as to whether the melody used today is the same one

Burns originally intended, but it is widely used in Scotland and in the rest of the world.Singing the song on Hogmanay or New Year’s Eve very quickly became a

Scots custom that soon spread to other parts of the British Isles. As Scots (not to mention English, Welsh and Irish people) emigrated around the world, they took the song with them.A manuscript of “Auld Lang Syne” is held in the permanent collection of The

Lilly Library at Indiana University in Bloomington, Indiana.“Auld Lang Syne” is traditionally sung at the conclusion of New Year gatherings

in Scotland and around the world, especially in English-‐speaking countries.It is common practice that everyone joins hands with the person next to them

everyone crosses their arms across their breast, so that the right hand reaches out to the neighbour on the left and vice versa. When the tune ends, everyone rushes to the middle, while still holding hands. When the circle is re-‐established, everyone turns under the arms to end up facing outwards with hands still joined.In countries other than Scotland the hands are often crossed from the

beginning of the song at variance with Scottish custom. The Scottish practice was demonstrated by the Queen at the Millennium Dome celebrations for the year 2000. The English press berated her for not “properly” crossing her arms, unaware that she was correctly following the Scottish tradition.http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Auld_Lang_Syne


English translation (minimalist)

Should old acquaintance be forgot,

and never brought to mind ?

Should old acquaintance be forgot,

and old lang syne ?

CHORUS:

For auld lang syne, my dear,

for auld lang syne,

we’ll take a cup of kindness yet,

for auld lang syne.

And surely you’ll buy your pint cup !

and surely I’ll buy mine !

And we’ll take a cup o’ kindness yet,

for auld lang syne.

CHORUS

We two have run about the slopes,

and picked the daisies

But we’ve wandered many a weary foot,

since auld lang syne.

CHORUS

We two have paddled in the stream,

from morning sun till dine† ;

But seas between us broad have roared

since auld lang syne.

CHORUS

And there’s a hand my trusty friend !

And give me a hand o’ thine !

And we’ll take a right good-‐will draught,

for auld lang syne.

CHORUS

Burns’ original Scots verse

Should auld acquaintance be forgot,

and never brought to mind ?

Should auld acquaintance be forgot,

and auld lang syne ?

CHORUS:

For auld lang syne, my jo,

for auld lang syne,

we’ll tak a cup o’ kindness yet,

for auld lang syne.

And surely ye’ll be your pint-‐stowp !

and surely I’ll be mine !

And we’ll tak a cup o’ kindness yet,

for auld lang syne.

CHORUS

We twa hae run about the braes,

sin auld lang syne.

CHORUS

We twa hae paidl’d i’ the burn,

frae morning sun till dine ;

But seas between us braid hae roar’d

sin auld lang syne.

CHORUS

and gie’s a hand o’ thine !

And we’ll tak a right gude-‐willy waught,

for auld lang syne.

CHORUS


As the hectic holiday season barrels toward the end of the year, don’t forget that Barter Theatre has the perfect way to unwind from all the madness. “A Christmas Story”

is playing on the main stage now through December 29.Bring your family and holiday

guests to Barter and watch the antics of the Parker family as the classic Christmas tale comes to life on stage in this high-‐energy, uplifting production. Back by popular demand, the show features a mostly new cast with exciting new direction by Richard Rose.Gary Aday of the Washington

County News praised the cast, led by Nicholas Piper (adult Ralphie) and Justin Tyler Lewis (young Ralphie). “Director Richard Rose has utilized a wonderful cast of Barter stalwarts,” said Aday. “Tricia Matthews is quite splendid as their mother, as is Nick Koesters as their Old Man, both completely realized stage characters, inhabiting the moment without any dependence

“You’ve probably watched the movie umpteen times, maybe you saw the play at Barter Theatre last year, but ‘A Christmas Story’ ... is

Robert McKinney of the Bristol

Herald Courier. “It is just different enough yet retains all the warmth and charm woven into the original story by author Jean Shepherd.”The reviews agree that “A

Christmas Story” at Barter is something that should go on your holiday list, and performance dates leading up to and after Christmas Day leave plenty of chances to check it (twice!). Catch “A Christmas Story” at any of the

following times:Thursday, December 19 at 2:00

pm and 7:30 pmFriday, December 20 at 8:00 pmSaturday, December 21 at 2:00

pm and 8:00 pmSunday, December 22 at 3:00 pmMonday, December 23 at 7:30

pmTuesday, December 24 at 2:00

pmThursday, December 26 at 2:00

pm and 7:30 pmFriday, December 27 at 8:00 pmSaturday, December 28 at 2:00

pm and 8:00 pmSunday, December 29 at 3:00 pmTickets are available at

bartertheatre.com or by calling 276-‐628-‐3991. Photo: Justin Tyler Lewis, Nick

Koesters, Tricia Matthews, Nicholas Piper and Abbey C. Elliott in Barter Theatre’s “A Christmas Story.”

A Christmas StoryBarter Theatre

Through December 29th

www.theloaferonline.com

Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies will ring in the New Year with its “14th Annual Dance with the Sharks New Year’s Eve Party.” Guests will have the opportunity to explore the underwater world of Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies while they party the night away with 10,000 exotic sea creatures.The New Year’s Eve Party

features:Incredible Band featuring Andy

Childs Band Heavy Hors d’oeuvres (9 to 11

pm) Carving Station. Shrimp Cocktail

.Stuffed Mushrooms. Fruit & Cheese. Elegant DessertsPersonal Souvenir PhotoChampagne Toast & Gatlinburg

Fireworks at MidnightThis year’s party will features the

incredible Andy Childs Band who present a power-‐packed variety of

specializing in early Rock’n Roll, Rhythm & Blues, Classic Rock, 70’s, 80’s, 90’s, and today’s music, plus some country favorites, They were recently featured on America’s Idol’s Next Great American Band on Fox Television, and have been the house band and music directors for USA Network’s Nashville Star, and CMT’s Can You Duet and Next Superstar. Childs is currently appearing in ABC’s dramatic series Nashville. “It’s always a spectacular event.

Our party is unique, fun and great for the entire family. You can dance, eat and party throughout the aquarium until 1 a.m., plus just prior to midnight we all go out to the aquarium’s plaza and watch

display and ball drop,” said Ryan DeSear, general manager of Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies.The party price is $149.99 per

couple, $79.99 for singles, and $25.99 for children (3-‐17) plus sales tax. The aquarium is located at

Gatlinburg, TN and is open 365 days a year. The Aquarium closes to the

public at 9 p.m. on New Year’s Eve and opens to party guests at 9:01 p.m. For reservations call 888-‐240-‐1358 or see us on the web at www.ripleysaquariumofthesmokies.com.

Dance with the SharksRipley’s Aquarium of the Smokies

New Year’s Eve


Bones, Jug, Xylophone, kazoos, steel pan resonator guitar, banjo, double bass, drums, all sorts of noise makers. These are just some of the instruments we play around with at our shows. The group began with the dream of throwing an energetic party with acoustic instruments, a high quality, clearly audible musical experience that could be had on street corners, on the beach, in living rooms, or

We started with some old xylophone rags, featuring Cody Jensen, and have since built a large repertoire of originals and covers, old and new. As old as Leroy Carr’s “Barrelhouse Women”, Memphis Jugband’s “Sugar Puddin’”, and the classic “Salty Dog Blues,” and as new as the Beastie Boys’ “Girls,” Bone Thugs N Harmony’s “Crossroads,” and Abigail

Washburn’s “Divine Bell.” We are

and string bands, both new and old, blues, ragtime, bluegrass, and much more. We perform calypso tunes featuring Tim Berg on steel pan, Mississippi John Hurt tunes featuring the guitar work of JP Goguen, and a slew of bluegrass standards and not-‐so-‐standards. With our extensive collection of instruments (including, xylophone, steel pan, resophonic guitar, upright bass, trap kit, jug, bones, quijada, horns, whistles, banjo, and more), our large spectrum

thoughtful songwriting we embark on our journey of creating a new sound to share with all who will lend an ear.We pride ourselves on being

seriously silly, it’s a commitment to fun. We want to party. We want,

we want to party. With you. And your friends. And other people that neither of us know. We’re hoping we can all dance till we fall down, sing till our voices cannot be found, and smile till our faces fall off. Bones.We will be bringing in the New

Year on Tuesday December 31st at The Acoustic Coffeehouse in

tour, “Bone Voyage,” which spans 11 states in 21 days and is in support

our EP “Bones,” which features 5 original songs recorded live in our hometown, Urbana, IL. Website: www.

Bonesjugsnharmony.com Facebook: https://www.

facebook.com/bonesjugsInstagram: @BonesJugs

Bones Jugs N HarmonyAcoustic Coffeehouse

New Year’s Eve


Since the late nineties Bryan Bielanski has been the frontman of the Charlotte, NC rock duo Angwish and has been rocking the world with his unique brand of hard hitting alternative rock. Now Bryan is stepping out with an equally energetic punk tinged solo folk rock 2014 World Tour. The power in Bryan’s vocals and lyrics convey a sense of urgency and sincerity in the songs and often have reduced audience members to tears and speechless awe with the sheer emotional delivery of the lyrics.Bryan Bielanski has accomplished

some remarkable achievements with Angwish. In addition to countless east coast tours since 1998, Angwish toured Europe in 2008 and 2010 and in 2012 went on an epic 6 month North American tour playing over 100 shows as nomadic rockers!! They also have been sponsored by Sam Ash music stores and had songs featured in European Red Bull advertisements and sporting events! In 2011 Bryan won the “Most Promising Artist” award and was nominated for best songwriter in the Charlotte Music Awards.

Bryan BielanskiAcoustic Coffeehouse

January 1st


Christmas isn’t over yet! Come to Sycamore Shoals State Historic Area and see how our colonial ancestors celebrated a holiday called “Old Christmas”. In Colonial America, Christmas was celebrated as a twelve day holiday with many traditions and customs. Does The Twelve Days of Christmas sound familiar? These twelve days of feasting, and merrymaking ended on January 6th or “Twelfth Night” with a grand celebration.On Saturday, January 4th

from 10am-‐4pm and Sunday, January 5th from 10am-‐3pm the Washington County Militia will hold their monthly Militia Muster and Old Christmas Celebration. As you walk through the gates of Fort Watauga you will travel back in time to an 18th century Old

in the fort will be the setting of

Christmas traditions as celebrated by the settlers of different cultures on the colonial frontier. Witness such customs as English Christmas Guns, the Irish Holly Wreath, the German Tannenbaum, and the Dutch Sinterklaas. See how our Christmas practices of today are steeped in these old world traditions.Get the most out of the Holiday

Season and visit Sycamore Shoals State Historic Site for a fun, entertaining, and educational family outing. Arrive ready to be

It’s an event that is sure to become a tradition with your family year after year.Sycamore Shoals State Historic

Area is located at 1651 W. Elk Avenue in Elizabethton, TN. For more information contact the Park at 423-‐543-‐5808 or

visit our websites at www.sycamoreshoalstn.org or http://

tnstateparks.com/parks/about/sycamore-‐shoals.

Old ChristmasFort Watauga

January 4th & 5th


East Tennessee State University’s George L. Carter Railroad Museum will hold its December Heritage Day on Saturday, Dec. 28, with “A ‘Tender’ Tennessee Christmas.”The event, which will be held

from 10 a.m.-‐3 p.m., will honor steam-‐ and diesel-‐powered trains

in Tennessee, including their “tenders,” or coal cars.Dr. Fred Alsop, director of

the museum, explains, “Within

mountainous areas situated around the lower Appalachians and the Great Smoky range, as

well as the mid-‐state high plateau. From Lookout Mountain near Chattanooga to the Cumberland

in the gorgeous but remote terrain. The western area of the state was

between the Midwest and the South. This resulted in a variety of necessary equipment and operations, from major companies to narrow-‐gauge industrial shortlines.”The museum will honor

predecessors to the current CSX and Norfolk Southern lines active in the “early days,” such as standard gauge railways like

Central, Louisville & Nashville, Chattanooga, Nashville & St. Louis and Tennessee Central, as well as such narrow-‐gauge logging lines as the East Tennessee & Western North Carolina, or “Tweetsie” line.Geoff Stunkard, coordinator

of the museum’s Heritage Days program, says, “There is a certain charm to railroading here in Tennessee, and we thought the name of this Heritage Day’s exhibit went along with the season and the region.” They chose the name as a reference to the title of a song by popular musical artist Amy Grant.Stunkard adds, “Every railroad

being built here faced the reality of the challenging terrain in the east and the need for speed in the west.

The legendary Casey Jones was from Jackson, and who can forget the Chattanooga Choo-‐Choo? This is a fun way to conclude the 2013 Heritage Days series; we’re looking forward to it.”The museum volunteers are

creating a Tweetsie scale model exhibit, which encompasses 1,300 square feet. Construction of this display is ongoing, but tours of the room are available during Heritage Day.Members of the Mountain

Empire Model Railroaders (MEMRR) club and the George L. Carter Chapter of the National Railway Historical Society are coordinating the program.The Carter Railroad Museum

is open on Saturdays from 10 a.m.-‐3 p.m. Admission is free, but donations are welcomed. The

the back entrance to the Campus

Center Building at 176 Ross Drive.For online information about

the museum, visit http://johnsonsdepot .com/glcarter/cartermuseum.htm.The MEMRR club works in

conjunction with the museum to demonstrate and maintain the model layouts, museum exhibits and other projects. Visit www.memrr.org to learn more about the group. For more information about

the event, contact Alsop at (423) 439-‐6838 or [email protected]. For disability accommodations, call the

at (423) 439-‐8346.

“A ‘Tender’ Tennessee Christmas”George L. Carter Railroad Museum

December 28th


Watauga Valley Fife & Drum CorpsSaturdays 10:00 am – 12 pmThe Fife & Drum Corps performs

at historical events, dedications, and parades. This group is open to anyone ages 13 & up. Musical experience is welcome but not necessary; just come with a willingness to learn. Meet our volunteer coordinator John Large at the Sycamore Shoals Visitors Center. Lessons are free of charge, just call and let us know you’re coming! Sycamore Shoals “First Hike”-‐

Carter Mansion TourBy Reservation OnlyWednesday, January 1 11:00 amJoin us for an enjoyable

midmorning tour of the Carter Mansion on Wednesday, January 1st. Visit this elegant frontier home, festively decorated for the holidays, and learn about the seasonal traditions of the 18th Century. Dress appropriately for the weather as we will be taking a casual stroll from the Visitor Center to the Carter Mansion. Tour will begin at 11:00 a.m. by reservation only. To make a reservation, call 423-‐543-‐5808. Tour will be subject to cancelation due to inclement weather. For

cancellation information call 423-‐543-‐6140. For more information about events with Sycamore Shoals State Historic Area, visit www.sycamoreshoalstn.org. Old Christmas: Militia Muster

at Fort WataugaSaturday, January 4 10:00 am –

4:00 pmSunday, January 5 10:00 am –

3:00 pmChristmas isn’t over yet!

European migrants brought Old World holiday traditions to America, from the Dutch Sinterklaas to the Twelve Days of Christmas. Discover the English, German, Scotch-‐Irish, and Dutch roots of our modern holiday celebrations. Contact the park for detailed schedule Shape Note Singing -‐ Led by

Don Wiley Sunday, January 19January – March, June, August -‐

NovemberSing the shapes! In this early

musical tradition, “shapes” represented each note of the do-‐re-‐mi scale. Although many Appalachian frontiersmen could not read, they achieved beautiful four-‐part harmonies through this

music. We invite you to join “The Old Fields Singers” for an experience you will not forget. Old Time Music Jam – Led by

Art LangSunday, January 26 1:30 pm – 4

pmEnjoy the rich musical traditions

of our region each month. Old time musicians of all levels are welcome. Don’t play an instrument? Come on over, kick back, and enjoy the tunes! Visitors Center Hours:9:00 AM – 4:00 PM Tuesday

through Saturday 1:00 PM – 4:30 PM SundayClosed MondaysOur Visitors Center is closed on

most State holidays. Park grounds are open from

dawn until dusk.For more information contact:Sycamore Shoals State Historic

Area1651 West Elk AvenueElizabethton, TN 37643(423) 543-‐5808www.sycamoreshoalstn.orghttp://tnstateparks.com/parks/

about/sycamore-‐shoals

Sycamore Shoals State Historic Area

January 2014 Events


Art Studio Schedule Fabulous Footwear: Start the New

Year on the right foot by designing your own high heel, cowboy boot or tennis shoe that is just your style!Chinese Lanterns: Ring in the Chinese

New Year by designing a Chinese lantern. As we celebrate the year of the Horse, learn some Chinese symbols to decorate your lantern.

Special EventsWednesday, January 1st -‐ Hands

On! will be closed for New Year’s DayThursday, January 2nd -‐ Sunday,

January 19th -‐ Newton’s AnticsCelebrate Sir Isaac Newton’s

birthday in the Eastman Discovery Lab this week. Discover Newton’s Three Laws of Motion with our tower test, eraser racers, and the water whirl. The Eastman Discovery Lab will be open by announcement periodically throughout each day.

Sunday, January 5th -‐ Rainforest Adventure Exhibit ClosesBe sure to visit this wonderful exhibit

before it closes! Explore rainforests from around the world in this traveling exhibit featuring over 40 interactive components: explore a gorilla nest, climb a 9’ Kapok tree, weave on a loom, and climb through a tree log to discover animals that make their home there.

Tuesday, January 21st -‐ Sunday, February 2nd -‐ Marvelous MagnetsDiscover how magnets work, where they

come from, and why Earth is considered a giant magnet. Test various items for magnetism and play with some magnetic gadgets. The Eastman Discovery Lab will be open by announcement periodically throughout each day. (***Please note that this program contains neodymium magnets which may inhibit the proper function of pacemakers.)

Wednesday, January 22nd, 9:30 am -‐ 12:00 pm -‐ Little Newton WorkshopSir Isaac Newton’s

birthday is this month, so let’s celebrate! Discover the laws of physics with Newton’s inertia beads, an amazing egg drop challenge, building and launching a

a centripetal force penny experiment. A healthy snack will be included as well. Cost $10 for members, $12 for non-‐members. Ages 7-‐12. Payment is required with registration by Wednesday, January 8th. To register, please call 423-‐434-‐4263 ext. 100, T-‐F 9-‐5 or e-‐mail [email protected].

Hands On! Regional Museum

January Calendar of Events


Tickets for the 2nd Annual January Jams at the Barter Theatre are now on sale and going fast. This series will include 7 total concerts, starting January 9, and run every Friday and Saturday during January. “We are excited to expand the number of shows offered from 4 to 7 this year after the overwhelmingly positive response last year,” explains Sara Cardinale, Special Events Coordinator for the ACVB. “The lineup this year has generated quite the buzz, and highlights Abingdon as an up-‐and-‐coming music destination.” The

a Thursday show kick-‐off, as well as a Friday and Saturday concert, for a total of three nationally acclaimed acts on stage. The genres include soul, blues, rock, bluegrass, country and Americana roots music. There’s something for every music lover in this

weekend’s schedule is as follows: Thursday, January

9th-‐ St. Paul and The Broken Bones with The BroadcastOpening act, The

Broadcast, hails from

Asheville and offers hard-‐edged, soulful rock music bursting-‐at-‐the-‐seams. Drawing much of their ambience from 70’s classic rock, they’re a band with an explosive

mood-‐altering keys and a rock-‐solid rhythm section. Their infections energy and authentic approach match them well with headlining band, St. Paul and The Broken Bones. Based out of Alabama, St. Paul and The Broken Bones deliver soul mixed with grit, elemental

rhythm, fabulous brass section and

crowd. Lead singer, Paul Janeway has an extroverted performing style that enraptures his audience. “I’m going to be dancing, getting in the aisles,” he says. “That’s just the way we do it. It really takes me back to church. There’s not a lot of difference. When I get on stage, it’s, ‘All right, it’s time to pour it on.’” Friday, January 10th – Jim

Lauderdale with Cruz ContrerasCruz Contreras is

the front man for the Americana band, The Black Lillies, from Knoxville. His song-‐writing skills were recognized as they won the Independent Music Award for Best Song-‐Story in 2012. Contreras has collaborated in the past with Jim Lauderdale, who is the headlining act for the night. Lauderdale is a Grammy® Award winning musician and one of the most respected artists working in the Bluegrass, Country and Americana music communities today. Jim is also in high demand

Continued on page 15

ST. Paul and The Broken Bones

Jim Lauderdale


as a player, touring with the likes of Lucinda Williams, Mary Chapin Carpenter, Rhonda Vincent and Elvis Costello.

Saturday, January 11th – Iris Dement with Beth SnappBeth Snapp, from Northeast

Tennessee opens for Iris Dement. Snapp’s vocals, lyrics, and melodies blend together beautifully into a distinctive acoustic experience. She

delivers a unique singer songwriter feel that is not only crisp and

truly a testament to her talent. Grammy-‐award winning singer/songwriter Iris Dement headlines the show. Her style is often described as roots-‐folk as well as country, but no one denies that her songs speak to the heart. She just recently released a new album of

in 16 years, Song of the Delta.

January Jams 2014 is presented

by The Abingdon Music Experience, Barter Theatre and

in part by Eastman Credit Union. The series will showcase nationally

recognized artists on stage at the historic Barter Theatre each Friday & Saturday during the month of January, 2014. A limited number of WEEKEND PASSES will be made available, and can be purchased by calling 276-‐628-‐3991. Doors

will open at 7:15pm each night, and shows will start at8:00pm. Tickets vary in price and can be purchased online viawww.bartertheatre.com . For a complete lineup of events, visitwww.abingdonmusicexperience.com .

Continued from page 14

Iris Dement


Begin 2014 on the right foot with a New Year’s Day hike in a Virginia State Park as part of America’s State Parks First Day Hikes. First Day Hikes is a national initiative to get people outdoors and into parks. “There’s no better place to

begin the year than in one of our 36 state parks,” said Virginia State Parks Director Joe Elton. “This is

our third year participating in the First Day Hikes program, and it’s proven to be a popular and fun way for visitors to enjoy our parks with friends and family and to begin healthy habits of physical activity that we hope they will continue in the days to come.”Self-‐led and ranger-‐led hikes and

activities vary by park. For example, Douthat State Park in Millboro will host a hike led by the Alleghany Highlands Master Naturalists, and Mason Neck State Park in Lorton will hold three ranger-‐led hikes of

observation blinds.A complete list of First Day Hikes

and details can be found at http://bit.ly/2014FDH. In conjunction with First Day

Hikes, Virginia State Parks will hold a special photo contest. Prizes include stays in a lodge and a cabin as well as annual passes. For contest information, visit http://bit.ly/FDHcontest. Virginia State Parks are managed

by the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation. For more information about Virginia State Parks activities and amenities or to make a reservation for one of the more than 1,800 campsites or 300 climate-‐controlled cabins, call the Virginia State Parks Reservation Center at 800-‐933-‐7275 or visitwww.virginiastateparks.gov.Represented by regional

board members of the National Association of State Park Directors, America’s State Parks is an alliance of state park systems in all 50 states, representing more than 6,000 state parks across the nation.

Grayson Highlands State Park829 Grayson Highlands Lane,

Mouth Of Wilson VA 24363 Phone: (276) 579-‐7092 Email

Address: [email protected]:00 a.m. – 8 p.m. at Massie Gap

Parking LotStart 2014 off right: with a hike

in the fresh air of the new year! Choose your distance. Join us for a two-‐mile hike to the

rocks of Wilburn Ridge and turn back there, or continue on with a ranger to complete the eight-‐mile hike to the summit of Mount Rogers. Be sure to dress warmly, as the highlands experience particularly cold and windy weather. Those wishing to complete the full Mount Rogers hike must be in good physical condition, due to the distance and rough terrain. Pack a lunch and bring plenty of water. The views along the trail are fantastic, and we may even see the wild ponies of Grayson Highlands and Jefferson National Forest. Hope to see you there! (In case of inclement weather please contact

Hungry Mother State Park2854 Park Boulevard, Marion

VA 24354 Phone: (276) 781-‐7400 Email

Address: [email protected]:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. –

Discovery CenterThis is a great chance to make

a New Year’s resolution to get outdoors more in 2014! Join a Hungry Mother State Park ranger in hiking the Lake Trail and experience the park in all of it’s winter beauty!Or, stop by the Discovery Center

First Day Hikes in Southwest VA

January 1st


Grayson Highlands State Park


any time on January 1 to pick up a First Day Hike brochure. Running .5 miles on the Lake Trail, this self-‐guided hike is easy and great for people of all ages and abilities. Natural Tunnel State Park1420 Natural Tunnel Parkway,

Phone: (276) 940-‐2674 Email Address: [email protected]:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. – Visitor

Center Parking LotAt Natural Tunnel there will

be a hiking adventure through a winter wonderland leaving from the Visitor Center. The hike will take hikers out on the Lovers Leap trail to climb up to the Lovers Leap Pinnacle to view the tunnel and the surrounding mountains from a height of 600 ft above the creek bed below. Throughout the hike visitors will have the opportunity to learn about the historical and natural highlights of the tunnel and surrounding natural marvels. Hot Cocoa, and cider will be offered after the hike at the Visitor Center. Don’t forget to dress for the

weather and bring sturdy shoes for hiking. This is a FREE program. New River Trail State Park176 Orphanage DR, Max

Meadows VA 24360 Phone: (276) 699-‐6778 Email

Address: [email protected]:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. & 1:00

p.m. – 3:00 p.m. – Foster FallsJoin us at the Foster Falls section

of the New River Trail to embark on a historical tour. We will be hiking in and around Foster Falls, Shot Tower and Austinville. Those who attend please remember to dress for weather, shuttle services will be provided for the program. Spaces are limited to 12 participants for each scheduled time, pre-‐registration is required for this event.

Southwest Virginia Museum State Park10 West 1st Street North Big

Stone Gap VA 24219 Phone: (276) 523-‐1322 Email

Address: [email protected]:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

The Southwest Virginia Museum Historical State Park will provide an informational pamphlet for those interested in taking a First Day Hike in Big Stone Gap, VA. The Museum’s First Day Hike is a self-‐guided walking tour of the town of Big Stone Gap, focusing on sites of

may pick up information at the

Museum’s front gate the day of the hike or in advance at the Museum’s front desk. Wilderness Road State Park8051 Wilderness Road, Ewing

VA 24248 Phone: (276) 445-‐3065 Email

Address: [email protected]

2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.Enjoy a fresh new start to a

brand new year with a special winter-‐themed ranger-‐guided hike along the .75 mile Indian Ridge Trail. Take advantage of an informative brochure and listen as a ranger explains what mother nature offers during our area’s coldest and harshest months.


Natural Tunnel State Park


“Studio 12, a group of artists from Lenoir in Caldwell County, North Carolina will be featured

of 2014 in the Juried Spotlight Gallery. The exhibit is scheduled to run from Thursday, Jan. 2 through Saturday, March 1. A Meet-‐the-‐Artists-‐Reception is planned for Sunday, Jan. 5, from 2-‐4 p.m.The group’s 12-‐member roster

includes seasoned artists who have enjoyed former careers in teaching, nursing, journalism, marketing,

have been brought together by a

common desire to increase their

individual levels of expertise as painters. Members work in watercolor, acrylic, pen and ink, pastel and mixed media and represent a wide range of subject matter and style.Studio 12 was founded in 2011.

Members meet monthly to critique each other’s work and to encourage an exchange of ideas for becoming more and better painters. Field trips to museums and other points of artistic interest are planned to contribute to the artists’ awareness

Members include Toni Indicott, Sara Akins, Irene Ridgeway, Jan Pennell, Vaughn Healey, Judy Greene Prevost, Jo Moore, Anne Welch, Carole Childers, Jan Martin,

Shirley Story and Marti Kardol.

Also Opening on January 2, 2014 –The Arts Depot’s Members Gallery will showcase the work of 10 Association members. Mary Harrington (Digital

Photography):Mary “grew up all over as a Navy

brat,” living in DC, Guam, Calif., NC, and her longest residencies in Fauquier and now Abingdon, VA. Mary majored in art at James Madison University and is a retired teacher. Her artistic interests presently lie in trying to see things in unique ways – “playing with light,

usually unnoticed detail.” Mary’s exhibit will concentrate on the use of color, texture, line and positive and negative space.June Henry (oil)Cincinnati-‐born local artist

June Henry has some paint in her bloodstream. Not only a cousin of Arizona artist Connie Mullineaux, she is related to international artist and sculptor H. Alvin Sharpe, whose series of seven murals is located on the ceiling of the New Orleans Board of Trade and who

in the 1960 Mardi Gras Rex parade. Raising three daughters and a

busy work schedule limited June’s

availability to paint. But once retiring and moving to Tennessee

Studio 12Arts Depot Juried Spotlight Gallery

Exhibit


Nancy Garretson-‐”My Little Chickadee”-‐Woven Sculpture


from St Petersburg Florida where she grew up, it became possible to pursue her love affair with oil painting. Though also a free-‐lance writer, she believes the adage that a picture can be worth a thousand words.A member of The Art Depot in

Abington as well as the 606 Gallery in Bristol, she has also exhibited her work at Mason Gallery & Oak Tree Gallery in Greeneville, Tusculum College’s Old Oak Festival, Jonesborough Days and other regional venues.Settling in the Chuckey area

8 years ago has provided much inspiration. She and her husband enjoy long scenic drives that June enjoys translating to canvas along with scenes from her former Gulf Coast home. Working in her home studio, she is joined by their two cats, who are enthusiastic critics. Although preferring landscapes and seascapes, as a true Gemini she enjoys stepping out of her comfort zone. “I like the challenge of trying new subjects and techniques,” June says. “Some may not evolve as I see them in my mind, but each canvass is an opportunity.” One of her goals is to make art more available and relevant to more people. Kathleen Jacobs (Mixed Media,

Found Objects) Kathleen’s earliest memories

of collecting found objects was as a child when she would attend auctions every Friday night with her parents in rural West Virginia. Kathleen recalls, “the drive was dizzying, especially for a child who

life in St. Louis... I never really did much with these found treasures, but kept them in an old wooden Velveeta box that belonged to my great-‐aunt, who was as intriguing

alongside my hunt for small treasures was my love of words. I was an avid reader, and eventually grew into a writer of poetry, short stories, and personal essays. It’s

the other. When I see an early photograph especially, it’s almost impossible for me to not pick

up pen and paper and see what transpires. I am always drawn to the innocence that gets lost along the journey of life, and my work allows me -‐-‐ for just a few minutes -‐-‐ the opportunity to revisit that innocuous naiveté.” “Seven Visions of Winter”

presented by the 7 Arts Depot’s Resident Artists This diverse group of artists

have each expressed feelings, inspirations and memories of winters past and present using

acrylic, fused glass and water media including alcohol ink. Delicate brush strokes in watercolor show the beauty of long blue shadows sometimes seen late in the day while in other works subtle muted

rounded hills of our region. A folk art rendition in acrylic conjures up childhood memories of a snowy day. Alcohol inks and sparkling fused glass pieces suggest the

have created a handsome Polar Bear and a cheerful Chickadee to brighten our days while heavily textured Clay wall vases in soft tones of blue and white suggest that winter can be a time of quiet beauty -‐ a time of hopes, dreams and simple pleasures.The Resident Artists are: Nancy

Johnson-‐ Folk Art, Jackie Dolpp –Water media, Joyce Samuel – Water media and Fused Glass, Helen Morgan –Fiber, Sara Reese – Clay and Nancy Garretson-‐ weaver.The Depot Artists Association is

that operates the Arts Depot and is dedicated to promoting the arts in the community and features the region’s artists. The Arts Depot is located in the historic Depot Square area of downtown Abingdon, VA. The gallery and artists studios are open Thursday thru Saturday, April through December 10-‐4 pm, January through March 11-‐3 or by appointment. There is no admission charge. For further information, please contact the Arts Depot at (276) 628-‐9091, or e-‐mail at [email protected], or visit their web site at www.abingdonartsdepot.org. The Association is supported in part by grants from the Virginia Commission for the Arts, the National Endowment for the Arts and the Virginia Tourism Corp.


Linda Hamilton-‐”First Snow” Watercolor


What is a traditional art? The people who lived in this

region had a special way of turning everyday objects of survival and necessity into works of art. Through our workshops and wonderful instructors, we strive to keep these unique skills alive.

or just a better understanding of

something to learn and keep with you forever.A Traditional Art is a skill worth

preserving!To hold your place in a workshop,

pre-‐registration and payment is required. Please register early to ensure a

spot in the class!

January

Spinning BasicsInstructor: Amy GawthropSunday, January 5 1:30 – 4 pm

(1st time students in this class) $15.00 for returning students

Min: 1 Max: 5Learning about wool, it’s

structure and how it reacts. Wool preparation with hand cards, viking combs and drum carder. Practical on the spinning wheel.

Watercolor Painting -‐Landscapes Instructor: Barbara Jernigan

Saturday, January 11 = 9 am – noonCost: $12 (plus supplies) or $20

(includes supplies) Min: 5 Max: openLearn and practice watercolor

techniques and style. Dress to take a short walk outdoors for photos and observations, weather permitting.

Watercolor Painting -‐Landscapes Instructor: Barbara JerniganSaturday, January 18 9 am –

noonCost: $12 (plus supplies) or $20



Anyone Can Knit! -‐ Making a Scarf! Instructor: Amy GawthropSunday, January 19 1:30 pm –

4:00 pm Cost: $25.00 Min: 1 Max: 10You will learn to cast on, cast

off, knit and purl, left & right handed knitting, and how to pick up dropped stitches. Bring at least 2 skeins of worsted weight wool in a solid color (if you want a long scarf, you will need at least 3

knitting needles (no longer than 10”), wood or plastic, straight or circular.

Inkle WeavingInstructor: Ronnie LailSaturday, January 25 9 am – noonCost: $50.00 includes loom (to

keep!) & all supplies Min: 3 Max: 8$20.00 thread only$10.00 instruction onlyLearn how to weave wide sashes,

narrow bands, and shoelaces on a loom that is light-‐weight and easy to carry around! You can create wonderful patterns through varied placement of colorful thread. Bring scissors.

February

Raised Bed Gardening Instructor: Ben HunterSaturday February 1 10 am – 1

pmCost: No Charge – Registration is

NOT necessary for this session It’s not too early to be planning

& building your spring garden. Gardener extraordinaire, Ben Hunter, will be joining us to share his experiences & techniques for growing the garden of your dreams! Sponsored by the Northeast Tennessee Master Gardeners.

Watercolor Painting – Florals Instructor: Barbara JerniganSaturday, February 8 9 am –




Watercolor Painting – Florals Instructor: Barbara JerniganSaturday, February 15 9 am –

Sycamore Shoals State Historic Area

Traditional ArtsWinter Workshops 2014






Anyone Can Knit! -‐ Making a Scarf Instructor: Amy GawthropSunday, February 16 1:30 pm – 4

pm Cost: $25 Min: 1 Max: 10You will learn to cast on, cast

off, knit and purl, left & right handed knitting, and how to pick up dropped stitches. Bring at least 2 skeins of worsted weight wool in a solid color (if you want a long scarf, you will need at least 3

knitting needles (no longer than 10”), wood or plastic, straight or circular. Call the park to register.

Wool Dryer Balls Instructor: Jane DoanSaturday, February 22 9 am -‐

noonCost: $30 Min: 2 Max: 10Save energy, reduce waste, and

protect your family from chemicals by using environmentally friendly wool dryer balls. In our class we will Create 4-‐6 dryer balls from 100 % wool. Wool dryer balls are an all natural alternative to fabric softeners, and dryer sheets. Dryer balls also shorten drying time and remove wrinkles in the dryer. 100% safe for all laundry including cloth diapers. Bring an old towel.

March

Vegetable GardeningInstructor: Ben HunterSaturday March 1 10 am – 1 pmCost: No Charge – Registration is

NOT necessary for this sessionGardener extraordinaire, Ben

Hunter, will be joining us to share

his experiences & techniques for growing the garden of your dreams! Sponsored by the Northeast Tennessee Master Gardeners.

Anyone Can Crochet! – Crocheting a ScarfInstructor: Amy GawthropSunday, March 2 1:30 pm – 4:00

pm Cost: $25 Min: 1 Max: 10You will learn all of the necessary

techniques to get you started in the art of crochet! Bring at least 2 skeins of worsted weight solid color yarn (if you want a long scarf, you will need at least 3 skeins) or any

scarf; bring a crochet hook – either size H, I, or J (5, 5.5, or 6 mm)

Mixed Media and Watercolor TechniquesInstructor: Barbara JerniganSaturday, March 8 9 am – noonCost: $12 (plus supplies) or $20



Spinning: Beyond the BasicsInstructor: Amy GawthropSunday, March 16 1:30 pm – 4

pm st

time students in this class) Min: 1 Max: 5 $15 for returning students If you are a brand new spinner, or

have been dabbling on the spinning wheel for some time; this class is for you! Bring your questions and join Amy for an afternoon of “All Things Spinning!”

Mixed Media and Watercolor TechniquesInstructor: Barbara JerniganSaturday, March 22 9 am – noonCost: $12 (plus supplies) or $20



Beginning Chair BottomingInstructor: Cathy

BroylesSaturday, March 29 9am – 4pmCost: $30 plus cost of materials –

reed & string Min: 5 Max. 10(pay instructor at start of class

for materials)A great way to repair an old

favorite or brush up an antique! Find out how to weave the life back

into your old cane furniture. Materials: chair to cane, bucket

or dishpan suitable for hot water, scissors, butter knife, 2 old towels. Class sizes are limited, so please

register early!To join one or more classes, you

must register in advance and pre-‐

pay.Please call the park at (423)

543-‐5808 for more informationIf you would like to receive

updated information throughout the year, please send your email address to [email protected] or check out www.sycamoreshoalstn.org



Christmas time is as nostalgic for the outer space buff as it is for families gathering around the decorated tree. There have been some incredible

memories in NASA’s 50 years of

men aboard Apollo 8 on Christmas Eve 1968. To a live evening audience that Tuesday on Dec. 24th, the astronauts took turns reading from the Bible Book of Genesis as a video camera showed the rugged lunar landscape below. Those astronauts making the

and certainly thinking of that memory 45 years ago. The lasting impression to the world is the iconic image of the Earth rising over the Moon’s horizon snapped by rookie Bill Anders while space veterans Frank Borman and Jim Lovell watched in awe.

Apollo 8 was a thrilling moment when the world was truly as one that Christmas thinking of three men orbiting the Moon 240,000 miles away. After American riots following the assassination of civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr., and a turn for the worse in the unpopular Vietnam War, a NASA technician radioed up to the Apollo 8 crew, “Thanks for saving 1968.” If you want an example of true

peace on Earth, you can look 225 miles above at the six astronauts sharing the experience of their lives aboard the orbiting International Space Station (ISS). This will be the

will be aboard, and the current Expedition 38 crew is a great example of the harmony in space exploration. Those space pioneers making

17 orbits of the Earth this Christmas Day are Japan Aerospace

Exploration Agency (JAXA)

engineer; Russian cosmonauts Oleg Kotov, commander, Mikhail Tyurin, and Sergey Ryazanskiy and NASA astronauts Rick Mastracchio and Michael Hopkins,

and Hopkins will perform three spacewalks, including one Christmas Day, to repair a failed fuel pump on the ISS cooling system. After the space walk, the ISS

astronauts will enjoy the traditional holiday treats from America, Russia and Japan, including Turkey, dressing and gravy, borsch and porridge, rice and sweet and sour soup, and maybe some pickled eggs and mince meat pie. Christmas time is also a time

Moon program as the sixth and last lunar mission returned on Dec. 19, 1972. Apollo 17 concluded a great chapter in man’s quest to explore the unknown. Since astronauts Gene Cernan and Jack Schmitt stepped off the surface onto their spaceship, no more humans have walked on the Moon. But that might change by the

end of this decade as China has an accelerated space program that is looking to 2020 when they might attempt a manned Moon landing. This Christmas 2013 the Moon

has a new earthly visitor, a Chinese robot explorer named Chang’e 3 and its mini rover named Jade Rabbit. Dec. 14th the spacecraft made a perfect touchdown in the Sea of Rains, with a 260 pound, six-‐wheeled vehicle being deployed for at least a 3 month mission. The rover, named after the Chinese mythology of moon goddess Chang’e’s pet rabbit, the size of a go-‐cart and has cameras and a scoop to sample soil. The Jade Rabbit, technically called Yuyu, and the Chang’e 3 lander have been taking photos of each other before the rover goes on its way. And orbiting the Moon this

Christmas 2014 may not be humans, but America’s Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter is in it’s jlj year sending back incredible close-‐ups, including the remains of Apollo landing sites and former moon spacecraft. No doubt LRO will be imaging the Chinese landers. In the 1960s at the dawn of the

Space Age, the modern world was

Christmas Star, Astronauts and

the Moon



trees and silly movies like “Santa Claus Conquers the Martians.” Today, the science fact being done by humans and robots rivals the

In 1999, seven astronauts on Space Shuttle Discovery spent a Christmas in space together. The STS-‐103 mission was the fourth

Telescope, replacing gyroscopes and protective thermal blankets. Those six veterans and one rookie astronauts had a combined 25

spacewalk. Christmas Day is the birthday of

one of the most amazing humans ever to walk the Earth—no, not

Jesus. (He was born in the Spring, probably 3 BC, as the Book of Matthew is the only known source).Sir Isaac Newton was

born in Lincolnshire, England on Christmas Day 1642. He is in the argument as one of the greatest geniuses of history, and simply changed the world by discovering the basic principles and laws that govern our physical world. Newton invented

(called Newtonians to this day), and discovered the spectrum of colors in white light. Many forget

Newton was also a Biblical scholar, and actually spent a lot of his time with alchemy—trying to create gold. Turning to the constellations

of Christmas night, they include

Orion, Taurus, Gemini, Auriga and Cassiopeia. The 2013 holiday nights will have the Moon at Last Quarter and in the after midnight skies. After sunset, Venus is setting in the west while Jupiter rises in the east. The brightest star in the sky

will also be above the southeast horizon, Sirius in Canis Major. It blazes like a white beacon, joined by Procyon above it and Betelgeuse to the right to form the Winter Triangle of stars. But the most famous star of

Christmas, the celebrated “Star of Bethlehem,” is nowhere to be seen. The truth behind history’s most celebrated star is a complex story that involves astrology, magi looking for a Messiah and the planets Jupiter and Venus. For it is in the Summer of 4 BC that Jupiter and Venus fused as one brilliant star above the June evening twilight horizon.

That “conjunction” of the King of the Night (Jupiter) with the Fertility Queen (Venus) in the constellation Leo the Lion, regarded as a law giver

impact to those sky watchers looking for a sign of world events. Such stargazers were the learned Zoroastrian Priests of ancient Shinar who traveled in a caravan to Israel to pay respects to a Hebrew King. Much is made of Christmas Day,

and for good reason. But it is a day

in the day and starlight in the night. And amazing memories for all of us to share with family and friends. Then there are those handful of

space men and women, who for them Christmas time will bring memories of the Earth below as

adventures. The rest of us with

look up for Santa and his reindeer among the stars.




Celestial events in the skies for the week of Dec. 24-‐30, 2013, as compiled for The Loafer by Mark D. Marquette.

Christmas Week and the night sky and earthly landscape have been transformed into a winter wonderland. The birth of the Christian Messiah, Jesus of Nazareth, has at the center of its mystery the celebrated Star of Bethlehem. Instead of a bright beacon as depicted on Christmas cards of the Nativity, the “Star” was most likely a series of events involving Jupiter and Venus passing closely together in 4 BC, signaling the sky watching “Magi” that a new leader of the Hebrews was about to happen. The bright stars of winter and familiar constellations that are easy to recognize make this a special time of year, both outside

Tues. Dec. 24

see Venus saying goodbye to the night as it slips below the horizon. Then turn around to the east and see 2nd brightest planet Jupiter rising with Gemini brother Pollux to its left.

Only the Sun and Moon are brighter than these two planets.

Wed. Dec. 25Christmas Day. Also the birthday in 1642 of Sir Isaac Newton, one of the greatest geniuses

of all time. Last Quarter Moon is today at 8:48 am. Rising in Virgo at 1:30 am, the Moon will have reddish Mars above it and white

star Spica below.

Thurs. Dec. 26In a telescope, Venus is a crescent as it is close to the Earth some 30 million miles away. This crescent might be seen by people with outstanding eyesight, so it is

worth a try. The second planet is plunging to the horizon as it will be lost in the solar glare in just a

few weeks.

Fri. Dec. 27Jupiter is one of the most interesting objects in a small telescope. Easy to see are the dark bands of clouds, the dark polar hoods and the four moons discovered by Galileo. These moons change position nightly—even by the hour—as they cross in

front of and behind Jupiter.

Sat. Dec. 28Saturn and the Moon are next to each other in Libra the Scales, the only non-‐living creature in the Zodiac. They rise together at 4 am, and are vanquished by

the dawn three hours later.

Sun. Dec. 29

night. Orion is high in the southeast with its stars outlining shoulders, knees and a belt. Above is “V shape of stars that make up the head and horns of Taurus the Bull. And Jupiter is hanging out with

bright Gemini brothers Pollux and Castor.

Mon. Dec. 30The Big Dipper is making its presence known as it stands on its handle in the northeast, turning like a dial on a clock as the night wears on. Opposite the Big Dipper are the distinct “W” shaped stars of

Cassiopeia the Queen.


Join Nature Program Coordinator Connie Deegan as she encourages participants to put their best foot forward and start the New Year fresh with a hike. The pace will be slow on this 2-‐mile hike, with stops and explanations of Buffalo Mountain’s winter environment. Bring your camera for a beautiful view of Johnson City from Huckleberry Knob.This free program will be held at Buffalo

Mountain Park from 1-‐3 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 1. Hikers are asked to meet below the service road gate.Call Deegan at 283-‐5821 for more information.

Start the New Year

With A Hike

M e m o r i a l Park Community Center, 510 Bert St., will offer Piloxing from 6-‐7 p.m. on Fridays beginning Jan. 10. Piloxing is a unique program that blends the power, speed, and agility of boxing with the targeted sculpting and

and this muscle-‐toning workout is guaranteed to leave participants feeling physically and mentally empowered.This program is open to ages 16 and older. Fee is $5

per class.Please call 434-‐5749 for more information.

MPCC To Offer Piloxing

Starting In January

KIDS OUR AGE will be the featured band for the 4th Friday Dance at the Jonesborough Visitors Center on December 27. Their music is always great and what better way to end the year than with good music and fun people! Music from the 50’s, 60’s and 70’s brings back great memories as you dance or listen to this very popular group. Line dance lessons are given from 6:30-‐7:00, with the band playing from 7:00 til 10:00 p.m. Cost $6.00. For additional information call 423-‐952-‐0772.

Kids Our Age4th Friday Dance

Jonseborough Visitors CenterDecember 27th


I’m sure most movie fans and those who have read “The Hobbit” novel remember the controversy surrounding the release of the 2012 movie “The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey”. How could the book possibly be made into a trilogy? What has director Peter

wasn’t in the book? As for myself, I had no problem

with Mr. Jackson embellishing

tremendous success with “The

guy a break. I was just thrilled he was once again taking us back to the land of Middle Earth. The second of the three Hobbit

Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug”, and Mr. Jackson is embellishing once more. When we last left the hobbit Bilbo (Martin Freeman), he was on a journey to help some dwarves reclaim their homeland of Erebor, which was overtaken by the dragon Smaug.

came into possession of the famous ring, known as “precious”, that wreaks so much havoc in the LOTR movies. Also along for the journey is our favorite wizard, Gandlaf (Ian McKellen), who has yet to discover Bilbo has the infamous ring in his

possession. As their journey continues, Bilbo

and company are being chased by the vicious and ugly Orcs following

Bilbo’s band eventually comes in contact with the Wood Elves, and the interaction is not pleasant. This

meet an all new character created

Lilly), and I will add her character adds much to the story line, and is a welcome presence.

back the elf character Legolas (Orlando Bloom) from the LOTR

Tauriel and Legolas make a great team, especially when dealing with Legolas’s father, Elvenking Thranduil (Lee Pace). In addition to dealing with

the elves, the crew is still felling

spiders (eek!), and the humans of Lake-‐town. Oh, and throw in the character Beorn (Mikael Persbrandt), a skin-‐changer who can assume the appearance of a great black bear. All of the aforementioned is even

before we meet the dragon Smaug (voiced by Benedict Cumberbatch).

When Bilbo and

Erebor, Smaug is awakened and is in no mood for company. Bilbo and the dwarves battle Smaug, and the battle leads to the cliff hanger ending which sets up the next installment.

series is in action over-‐drive, and just slows down a bit for some new character introductions. All the actors are wonderful, and

Cumberbatch is perfect as the voice of the dragon.

and is well worth the extra cost to

I am sure there will still be those who are appalled by the additions to the “Hobbit” story, but I say chill out and enjoy one of the year’s best movies: “The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug”. (Rated PG-‐13) A

The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug



Despite all the tinsel and glow, all the shiny faces and families rushing around in their SUVs and minivans,

of the year for some people. An example? Recently a friend of mine was talking about grocery shopping with her husband and children. She came across the seasonal display of Little Debbie cakes, and began to pick up two boxes to mail to her grandfather. Upon putting them in the cart, she remembered that her grandfather passed away this year, she quietly, and sadly, placed the boxes back on the shelf. Before you get me wrong, I’m

not hating on Christmas. I love this time of the year, genuinely, not in a “Up next on the Donnie and Marie Christmas Special is Andy Ross and he’s gonna read that off some cue cards” way. I suppose why I feel a need to talk about this, is that I felt a little down last Christmas. It was odd, I didn’t even feel enthusiastic about making my annual Christmas Mix CD, which has become

something people actually look forward to. Seasonal Holiday Depression? Maybe. I hesitate to say that was it, but perhaps it was a mild version of it. My friend’s story

about the Little Debbie cakes reminded me of this. Because it doesn’t matter how happy things around her might be this Christmas, there will be moments when she is reminded of her grandfather. It may be on Christmas Eve, or it may be when she turns and sees a photo of him, or catches a glimpse of his favorite ornament on the tree. Whenever it happens, she’ll be sad for a moment, and I feel

like it may be that for more people than we realize. I know I feel a little this way again this year, because my grandmother is in the nursing

Christmas. It breaks my heart to see her

there. To see her one day and

someone is having to feed her. It’s hard sometimes to deal with the juxtaposition of that, and the other residents in the home, with hopping into your car and hearing “Jingle Bells” on the radio. You see this, your friend’s heartbreak, and you think of how ridiculous it all is that this season starts with an event in which we shoot each other just to get a deal on a damn TV. When we die, no one is going to stand up and talk about how we once saved a lot of money in 2011. Instead, I would hope they would say what a good person we were, and how we made a point to make those who needed to feel less alone, less alone.

If we all took the amount of time and energy we spent to shove people out of the way for that TV, on actually helping people, we could make this world a better place. I suppose the point that I’m trying to make with all of this, is to tell you what I’d really like for Christmas. Humanity. I want a little more humanity in the world. I hinted at this a little bit at Thanksgiving, but I feel it’s ever more important at this time of year to mention it again. Small gestures, nothing too big, just more kindness in the world.It’s my sincere wish for you and

your family to have a very Merry Christmas, and that the coming year will be much better for us all. However, do me one favor, and remember that there are those who are hurting, those who—despite not showing any sign of pain on their face—may be doing all they can to not cry this season. So let’s raise our glasses in hope. Hope for a better year to come, hope for those who will one day see light at the end of the tunnel, and hope that we all might—in our own little way—leave this world a better place than we found it. Merry Christmas to you all.

Blue Christmas Lights


The controversial and iconoclastic Susan Sontag, writing in one of her most talked-‐about books, On Photography (1977), observed that “Photographs are a way of imprisoning reality. . . . One can’t possess reality, one can possess images—one can’t possess the present but one can possess the past.” She goes on point out something that sounds very contemporary: “Needing to have

enhanced by photographs is an aesthetic consumerism to which everyone is now addicted. Industrial societies turn their citizens into image-‐junkies; it is the most irresistible form of mental pollution.” Sontag, who died in 2004, was

writing her photography book based on the experiences of the pre-‐digital era, a world that had not yet discovered smartphones and mobile technology. Needless to say, her comments take on another layer of meaning now that we are immersed in a nearly constant

us (and including us) are addicted to capturing every moment of their existence and then uploading these images to Facebook, Instagram, or YouTube. Our smartphone cameras

of images and we are faced with the ever-‐present problem of how to store and retrieve them. But how often do we reference them and remember the events to which they were once tied?This last question becomes

especially relevant as we celebrate the season which has become so associated with capturing memories. Every opened present, every bite of delicious holiday food, every kiss under the mistletoe, and every New Year’s Eve debauchery-‐-‐no doubt soon to be regretted but not recallable if Facebooked or Tweeted-‐-‐will be photographed and archived this week and the next.

Dr. Linda Henkel has recently conducted a study (published in the Journal of Psychological Science) designed to answer the

question of just how much photographs facilitate memory and what role they play in our lives. Her

on the guided tour of

Bellarmine Museum of Art she took with her students earlier this year. The rules are pretty simple: have 28 students look at 30 assigned museum objects, simply observing 15 and photographing 15 others. The next

day, the students are asked to recall details based on the method used.Dr. Henkel, after

examining the results of her experiment, coined a new term “photo-‐taking impairment effect,” and

the following summary: “If participants took a photo of each object as a whole, they remembered fewer objects and remembered fewer details about the objects and the objects’ locations in the museum than if they instead only observed the objects and did not photograph them.” Things are not quite this simple, however. Henkel also found that photographs could trigger memories more if the student had focused

of the art object. Doing so even improved the recall of details not included in the photo.A recent report by “RealityCheck”

raised some interesting questions about Henkel’s study. For instance, many photographs aren’t about capturing detail but about “registering an emotion.” Details aren’t that important when feelings and emotions are involved. “Many people still recall the feelings of something (a wedding, a birth, a summer) in great detail, even if they can’t remember the caterers

people choose the subjects of their photographs (rather than being told what to capture, as Dr. Henkel instructed her students to do), details are usually better remembered. Another important thing to consider is that when we view photographs we might remember many things very imprecisely, while not recalling

we generally remember the forest but not the trees. And, I might add that when we view photographs we never remember events, but only our memories of events—memories that are almost always distorted and colored with intervening experiences, wishful thinking, and feelings of nostalgia and regret.Aside from the question of

whether or not picture-‐taking leads to accurate recall (which I think

we can agree it doesn’t), there is another component of Dr. Henkel’s research that is more relevant. In an article written by Anna Mikulak, Dr. Henkel observes that “People so often whip out their cameras almost mindlessly to capture a moment, to the point that they are missing what’s happening right in front of them.” According to Henkel, “the ‘mind’s eye’ and the camera’s eye are not the same.”In this instance, picture-‐taking

can actually get in the way of memory formation, because instead of authentic (whatever that is in our image conscious world) human interaction, we have only the photograph documenting the encounter that became merely a photo opportunity rather than a meeting of minds (or hearts). I

weeks ago when I took a look at the

the photographer’s self-‐absorption prevents any meaningful memory formation. When we look at our

what meaning will they have? Just like the pictures of food we so obsessively take these days (the subject of another recent column—seems like I am very obsessed with photography during this holiday

bereft of any meaningful content, concerned as they are with very

shallow narcissistic displays.Henkel adds that the question

of whether or not photographs enhance our memories is a moot point if we never actually examine the photographs we have taken. “Research has suggested,” says Henkel, “that the sheer volume and lack of organization of digital photos for personal memories discourages many people from accessing and reminiscing about them [because] in order to remember, we have to access and interact with the photos, rather than just amass them.” And, be honest, how often do you take the time to study and interact with the thousands of pictures you have taken? Like the steady stream of accumulating Emails, Facebook posts, and Tweets we receive every minute, pictures are being sucked into a giant void that is impervious to memory-‐making.So, in conclusion, I hope that

the pictures you take during this holiday season become a meaningful part of your life rather than just a distraction or forever lost in the data banks of your devices.Hope you and your loved ones

have a joyous and memory-‐laden Christmas holiday. See you next week with my usual end-‐of-‐year

Capturing (And Forgetting) Your

Christmas Memories


Page 32, The Loafer • December 24, 2013 www.theloaferonline.com

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