Eguide Magazine April 2014

April 1, 2014 • Issue 4, Volume 2

Rusty Taco:

Everything All Wrapped Up In A Taco

Red Dirt BBQ & Musical Festival: Tyler’s Caldwell Zoo: 15 Pitmasters Plus 6 Bands Equals A Lot of Fun

New Lion Cubs Create Quite a Frenzy

Church Stained Glass Art: Religious Art Abounds

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The Entertainment Magazine for East Texas April 1, 2014 • Issue 4, Volume 2

Contents 4-5 Dining

» “Rusty Taco: Tacos Galore” by Gini Rainey

» “Vegetarian Can Be Exciting” by Jodie Meyer 6-7 Movies: by Dustin Chase, Film Critic

» Reviews for “Noah,” “Captain America: The Winter Soldier,” “Draft Day,” “Cesar Chavez” and “Divergent”

» News & Events 8-10 Festivals

» Red Dirt BBQ & Musical Festival: The Biggest BBQ Party on Earth 10-12 Things to Do

» Caldwell Zoo: A Tyler Tradition of Excellence

» 27th Annual I-20 Team Real Estate Championship Rodeo, Brick Street Village First Friday, Addams Family, ETSO Piano Festival, Domino Run, Apache Bells Spring Show, McClendon House Murder Mystery: Murder at the Azalea Ball, Breezester 2014, Whitehouse YMCA Run for your Life 5K and more 13-15 Music

» “Tyler Community Concert Association: Check out ‘Tyler Live’ Concerts at Caldwell Auditorium” by Jimmy Arbor

» “Don’t Miss” - Highlights of the Best Music this Month

» The Complete Music Guide for Live Music 16-17 Theatre

» There’s Lots of Live Productions this Month from the Area’s Theatre Companies 18 Books

» “Killing Jesus” by Bill O’Reilly, “What Do You All Day?” by Amy Scheibe and “The Wild, Wild Cookbook - A Guide for Young Wild Food Foragers” by Jean Craighead George reviewed by Gini Rainey

» Tyler Library Happenings, Book Signings and Poetry Slam 19 Tours

» “The Largest Collections of Enemy Aircraft in the World: Historic Aviation Memorial Museum” by Lynn Dark 20 Family

» “Parks: The Heartbeat of Our Community” by Kelly Griffith-Fields 21-22 Art

» “The Glory of Stained Glass” by A. C. Slaughter

» Galloway Art Exhibition, Prestige Estates Art Exhibit, Downtown Tyler ArtWalk, ArtistsNation Photog Meet-up, Stroll through the Arts, Art in the Park and more

Staff Publisher

Tena Jerger

Sales Manager Louie Jerger Copy Editor

Dana Khan, Gini Rainey Editorial

Jimmy Arbor, Dustin Chase, Lynn Dark,Kelly Griffith-Fields, Amanda Main, Jodie Meyer, Gini Rainey, A. C. Slaughter

Distribution

Dwain Hare, Louie Jerger, Patrick Tilton

Deadlines On Stands Deadline May 1st.........................................April 21st June 2nd....................................... May 20th July 1st..........................................June 20th August 1st......................................July 21st September 1st......................... August 20th October 1st......................September 22nd FUN MAP INSERT! November 1st.......................October 20th December 1st...................November 19th

“EGuide Magazine” is an event-driven magazine focusing on ‘things to do’ in East Texas. We are published once a month. We are distributed free in our unique stands at over 340 locations in Tyler, Whitehouse, Bullard, Flint, Gresham, Edom, Ben Wheeler, Lindale, Jacksonville and Rusk.

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The Entertainment Magazine for East Texas

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We are currently looking for freelance writers.

If you have a love for writing, send samples to:

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EGuideMagazine.com • 3

Dining

Vegetarian Can Be Exciting!

By Jodie Meyer

Tacos Galore!

By Gini Rainey

Rusty Taco began as a simple family-operated taco stand in the Dallas area and has grown into a leading edge-quick service restaurant concept with locations stretching from Nacogdoches, the DFW area, and Tyler all the way to the Minneapolis-St.Paul Metroplex.

Offering a simple menu of tasty and authentic tacos that are prepared fresh every day, the meal is served quickly in a unique and fun atmosphere that is kid friendly.

When we visited the Tyler location at 1714 S. Beckham the other evening for dinner, what stood out the most to us was the minimalist concept of the restaurant. The night was rather pleasant and the bay door windows were open to allow a nice, fresh breeze into the dining area. Also, there is a covered deck with additional seating to allow for larger groups of people.

Our order was taken by a couple of really friendly guys and as always, I asked what they thought I should try. They pretty much suggested everything on the menu, but knowing that we couldn’t possibly eat that much, we kept it simple.

We got the #1 Picadillo taco, which is a combination of ground meat and potatoes, topped with onions and cilantro on a corn tortilla; the #4 chicken fajita taco, which was grilled chopped chicken topped with cilantro and fresh pico on a corn tortilla; and the #13 Texican taco, spicy Mexican beef, lettuce, tomatoes, and shredded cheese on a flour tortilla.

Our order was ready before we knew it and was every bit as delicious as promised by our servers. I probably could have eaten more, but to be quite honest, I was comfortably full.

Intrigued by the dessert tacos on the menu, we ordered a cherry taco to top off our meal. The deep fried tortilla was stuffed with a few cherries and some heavenly goo, and it was just the right amount of sweet to take the residual fire left in my mouth from the homemade green sauce.

I knew that my daughter and her family (who are die-hard vegans and one who is allergic to gluten) like to eat at one of the Rusty Tacos in the Dallas area, so I asked her about which vegan/gluten free options they order. She said they like the frozen margaritas, the guacamole and salsa – and the opportunity for the kids to run around on the deck.

They like that they use corn tortillas by default, so they are already gluten free. She has had both the rajas tacos and the black bean tacos (without cheese) and thinks that the rajas taco had a bit more flavor. She added that for vegetarians they also have the potato/egg/ cheese taco.

All in all, I must say that my opinion of Rusty Taco is good and I am pretty sure that I will be heading back in their direction before too long.

Besides, what’s not to like about friendly service, fresh air, great food, and cold beer?

Rusty Taco

1714 S. Beckham Ave, Tyler (903)596-8226 7922 S. Broadway, Tyler (903)939-3000 Hours: Open 7am-10pm daily therustytaco.com

When we think of the signature foods here in the South and West, we think of barbeque – meat! What about the vegetarians or even those of us just trying to live a healthier lifestyle? We usually don’t have many options. So I made this my mission — I went around the region, determined to find exciting options for those abstaining from meat.

I went to Currents expecting to find something good, but expensive. Instead, what I found was amazing at a great value. On the lunch menu they serve a Grilled Vegetable Terrine. There was eggplant, Mozzarella, zucchini squash, onions and tomato. It came with truffle mashed potatoes and was dressed with a house vinaigrette. It was only $8.95 and packed full of “I-have-to-eat-this-again.” I left full and happy.

If you miss the old menu at Julian’s, go to Fusion 11. My favorite meatless option there turned out to be the Honey Seared Tofu. It was incredibly good. There no hint of the slimy texture associated with tofu. When it got to my table, it was golden and crispy on the outside accompanied with scallions which went perfectly with the honey sauce. You can eat it by itself or mixed with the rice (white or brown) it comes with. The crunch, combined with the soft center, made every bite a party in my mouth.

Breakers, a seafood joint, has a lot of meatless options. They even serve fresh juice blends made to order. I had the Cucumber Apple.

What a smart, unexpected combination. The cucumber balanced the tartness you get with green apple so perfectly I sucked it down in minutes. They have juices that have veggies in them, too. If you are pressed for time, I recommend the Green Machine to go — it has limes, apples, romaine and spinach. Yum. For a lighter meal, I went with the Veggie- Feta Lettuce Wraps. They had two romaine leaves with red peppers, red onion, tomato, cucumber, black olives and feta. Very refreshing. Looking for something more substantial? You can’t go wrong with the Black Bean Burger. It has avocado, pico and cheese — and tastes so much better than “veggie” burgers I have tried other places.

Whole Health in the Bergfeld Shopping Center serves food. I never knew this until I began my research for this article. I know hummus is becoming more mainstream every day but no one in Tyler serves it like Whole Health does. It is not the standard pita-and-hummus.

You get a bed of spring mix, large carrot slices, broccoli, and red, green and yellow peppers. Then you get the hummus. Not thin or runny, it’s thick and seasoned perfectly. I love the tahini with cumin, salted perfectly. I also tried one of their Daily Specials one day, a vegetarian hot dog (which is not on the regular menu), It comes topped with mustard, onions, relish and tomato. The dish isn’t trying to taste like your typical hotdog, but there’s a meaty quality in the flavor, and texture-wise, it’s actually meatier. Not only did I love it, but I wish I was eating one right now telling you about it.

The best vegetarian salad in Tyler to me is the Hazelnut Caprino Salad at Sonoma Grill.

903.825.1975 ~ 903.565.6262 Steaks - Burgers - Seafood - Crawfish......Karaoke Saturday Nights......2 Locations - Hwy. 155 South, Flint & Highway 64 East in Chapel Hill 4 • EGuideMagazine.com

They take a piece of goat cheese, bigger than a silver dollar, and coat it with crushed hazelnut, and then flash-fry it. They place it atop a bed of spring mix, roasted red peppers, artichoke hearts and large pieces of perfectly grilled eggplant. I love the house dressing it comes with but you really don’t need it.

The eggplant and red bell pepper juices dress the salad themselves. Everything in this salad makes a scrumptious experience.

The Potpourri House does a Fresh Basil Pesto Pasta that is outstanding.

The pesto is “classic” and they deliver on the execution. Served on penne, it also has black and green olives, sun-dried tomato and artichoke hearts. It’s divine. You can get it gluten-free by substituting the penne with their corn pasta. I had a sample to make sure it was worth the mention — and it totally was.

To finish off my meatless odyssey, I went to Rick’s. He has a Mezze Platter, which by definition is an assortment of appetizers. When I get this I have it as my meal. It has diced cucumber, roasted red bell pepper cooked in balsamic vinegar, tabouleh, hummus, kalamata olives and feta cheese. They serve it with pita bread. This dish has very bold flavors. It is meant to be eaten with your hands, making it fun to share with friends. The tabouleh is made in-house and very authentic. I love the Mediterranean flavors - you would not expect this dish looking at the rest of the menu. I promise it’s true.

There are lots of reasons to go meatless — philosophical and simply health-conscious. But you don’t need any such reason to try these dishes — they’re delicious.

News, Events and More Stuff You Wanna Know About….

Cooking Class IV will take place featuring Guest Chef Jack Lewis, Rick’s on the Square and Danny Cace, Conco Foods. The topic will be “Amazing Appetizers.” Don’t miss the recipes and a great meal.

Cost is $15/ person, pre-registration required and space is limited. Call (903)531-1349 for reservations or questions. This will be held at Harvey Hall, 2000 W. Front St., Tyler. Class V will take place May 27th. The topic is “‘Grillin’ & Chillin’ an elegant grill dinner to start the summer with, along with refreshing cool non-alcoholic drinks.” Receive recipes and enjoy a great meal with Chef Jackson York, CEC, Lakeview Methodist Conference Center.

Tuesday, April 15th - Taste of Tyler - Tyler’s premier culinary event will take place starting at 6:30pm at Harvey Convention Center. This event showcases a variety of foods by Tyler’s leading restaurants, live music and “Cupcake Wars.” This is sponsored by Tyler Sunrise Rotary and Tyler Restaurant Association and proceeds from the event will help provide funds for community projects, educational programs and scholarships. Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 at the door. Advance tickets may be purchased at Smith County Dairy Queens and other participating restaurants. Sponsor admission is at 6pm and general admission is at 6:30pm. Harvey Convention Center is located at 2000 W. Front St. For more info call (903)520-4946.

Stanley’s Famous BBQ (525 S. Beckham, Tyler, (903)593-0311, www.stanleysfamous.com) Stanley’s seems to always be topping their own ‘best’ achievements these days and this time it’s for a totally awesome sandwich. “The Mother Clucker” was recently voted one of the top ten barbecue sandwiches in the state by “Texas Monthly Magazine.”

The magic contents are smoked chicken thigh, a fried egg, cheddar cheese, spicy barbecue mayo, candied bacon and guacamole (on request), all piled in between a jalapeño cheese sourdough bun. “This sandwich just sounds ridiculous, but it’s nothing short of ridiculously good. The smoked chicken thigh will make you rethink using a chicken breast on a sandwich ever again. It’s perfectly moist, tender and smoky. If the BBQ mayo doesn’t enrich it enough, the yolk will once it’s broken. Just because it has egg and bacon, don’t relegate it just to breakfast. Texas’ best barbecue sandwich should be enjoyed all day long,” states Daniel Vaughn, from the magazine. We’ve tried this and it’s all true — to-die-for! Congrats Nick and Stanley’s crew on another achievement and award.

Traditions has Tyler’s Original Spiral-Cut Honey Glazed Heartland Hams, just in time for Easter.

These are the best around and a Tyler favorite. The “legendary” Honey B Ham is smoked for many hours to ensure that unique smokehouse flavor.

They individually spiral slice each ham and fire glaze them with their specialty blend of honey and spices. Thousands of families across America choose these honey glazed ham for their traditional holiday meals. “Honey B Easy and Honey B Good” is their slogan and it’s dead on. Traditions Restaurant is located at 6205 S. Broadway in Tyler, (903)534-1111. Open Monday - Saturday, 11am to 8pm and Sunday, 11am to 4pm. Place your order at traditionstyler.com. You might want to get a made from scratch and prepared on-site pie while you are at it - their strawberry is the best.

There was a bet going on for East Tyler-ites about which was actually going to open first - Happy Fish or Popeyes Fried Chicken, both located on Fifth St. Well, those that bet on Happy Fish won, barely.

They are finally open but only in the evenings right now. Popeyes is about a week away from serving up their famous spicy fried chicken.

It’s crawfish season and we are on the hunt for ‘em!

So far we have gorged on these heavenly delights at Fish City, Razzoo’s and Crawdaddy’s. Seems the going rate these days is $7-9 a pound with corn and potatoes extra. Fish City offers theirs with little whole mushrooms that have been boiled alongside the crawfish and they are addictive. FRESH is offering take-n-go crawfish on Saturday, April 12th too. Fish City is located next door to Macy’s at 4740 S. Broadway, Tyler. A little south is Razzoo’s, located at 7011 S. Broadway and Crawdaddy’s is located out Hwy. 155 on the way to Noonday and in a new second location across from the high school in Chapel Hill. FRESH is located on Old Jacksonville Hwy. Also at Fish City, don’t forget that they have “$6 Oyster Nacho Wednesdays: Fried Oysters + Pico + Chipotle Tartar = Fish City Grill’s Oyster Nacho Wednesdays!” Let the feasting begin.

Steak ‘n Shake has sticks in the air and is making great progress. Right next to Ornelas Hall at UT Tyler, is the all-American favorite burger joint where you will be happy digging into steak burgers and succulent fries. This isn’t your run of the mill burger place. This restaurant goes beyond burgers and fries. There fame is their staple milkshakes ranging from different flavors like chocolate chip cookie dough or the vanilla M&M’s shake. They offer breakfast options ranging from hash brown and scrambled egg skillets to pancakes. Lunch and dinner consists of juicy burgers, fries, hotdogs, and an array of side options. There’s even a $4 dollar menu. One of our favorite parts is that the place is open 24 hours. If you want to eat breakfast at midnight, you can. If you want food at 3am they are open. This will definitely be one of the hot spots that college students will be going to.

True Vine, Tyler’s first brewery, opened Saturday, March 29th at 219 S. Englewood Ave., Tyler. They have released their Rose City Pale Ale which is on draft in local Tyler restaurants and bars. Rose City Pale Ale is their big spin on the traditional pale ale which some say is border-line IPA. It is infused with organic rose hips and has a citrus kick from its Centennial and Cascade hops. This hoppy, medium bodied pale ale is a full-sensory beer. This bold yet easy drinker is a perfect pairing with Texas’ finest cuisines. Along side Tex-Mex, anything grilled, or all alone, this one is sure to become a local favorite and staple for True Vine. It is brewed with 2-row, Munich, Vienna and caramel malts; centennial and Cascade hops along with Organic rose hips.

Currently they have tables and soon will be putting in a Beer Garden. Come by the brewery anytime for a tasting of this beer along with others that they are working on. Rose City Ale is available at Juls Restaurant, 7212 Old Jacksonville Hwy; Soju Sushi Bar and Asian Bistro, 6361 Old Jacksonville Hwy.; Stanleys Famous BBQ, 525 S. Beckham; Fuzzy Taco, 1871 Troup Hwy.; and FRESH, 6991 Old Jacksonville Hwy., all in Tyler.

Closed

Fat Catz (used to be located at 3320 Troup Highway, Tyler) has closed their doors. They have stated that they will return soon “bigger and better.”

Good luck, we loved you guys and wish you nothing but good will.

EGuideMagazine.com • 5

Movies

Movie Reviews By

Dustin Chase

www.texasartfilm.com Dustin is a Member of the “Houston Film Critics Society” Film Critic/Assistant Editor for “Texas Art & Film” (texasartfilm.com) Film Critic for “The Daily News” (Galveston) Entertainment Reporter for “Galveston.com” Film Critic for “Island Guide,” (Galveston) & “EGuide Magazine” (Tyler) and Online Air Entertainment News Commentator at “News 92FM’s Livin’ Large”

“Noah”

Starring: Russell Crowe, Jennifer Connelly, Emma Watson, Anthony Hopkins, Logan Lerman Grade B Controversy sells and Oscar nominated director Darren Aronofsky’s interpretation of Noah and the flood is seething with it. Much of the early controversy surrounded Aronofsky versus Paramount, since the widely respected visionary director of “Black Swan” and “Requiem for a Dream” had never helmed a big budget film. Clearly The Bible doesn’t offer over two hours worth of cinema when speaking about Noah, so Aronofsky and writer Ari Handel fill in a lot

of blanks. This is the first time we have seen the story of Noah on the big screen, up until now the technology really didn’t exist to do it justice. “Noah” looks and feels epic on a scale of “Lord of the Rings,” except the liberties taken here are likely to alienate the core Christian audience and confuse the rest, but remember folks, it’s just a film.

Noah (Crowe) and his family are part of those who follow “The Creator.” They respect the land and follow the path of righteousness. “The Men” of the world who choose not to follow The Creator are descendants of Cain; they make their own rules and live in sin. Noah is given a vision that the earth and all its wickedness will be destroyed by an apocalyptic flood. He is given the insight to build an enormous ark that will carry all living things. When The Men learn of this they prepare to wage war against Noah who is being helped by Heaven’s fallen angels called The Watchers, made of stone and rubble. Even inside the ark that is to withstand the floods, Noah’s faith will be challenged by his own family before they ever see land.

The first big shock of the film is the appearance and explanation of the fallen angels. It’s an interesting subtext that has clearly been expanded on for cinematic purposes, as are many other elements.

The character of Noah is certainly written here to be multidimensional; he isn’t the Noah featured in children’s cartoons, he is dark, determined and faces unbelievable choices based on his faith. At some point in the film, those of us who read and follow the Bible must remind ourselves this is just one person’s vision or interpretation. On the other hand, “Noah” is very likely to have people looking back to the text of The Bible to see what it actually says.

The production design of the film is quite remarkable, especially the detail of the costumes in the earlier scenes. The muted palettes, blue-jean-like dyed fabrics are stunning and resemble the destitute look of “The Road.” Crowe and Connelly find themselves playing husband and wife 14 years after “A Beautiful Mind,” while Watson and Lerman from “The Perks of Being a Wall Flower” are now family.

The script isn’t altogether sound and while so much happens before the flood occurs, even those who are familiar with the story should find great suspense that these storytellers have added. I think this is the kind of spectacle that might touch some nerves, might

Live Music Every Saturday April 5th - Interstate 20 Band April 12th - Mark Fields Band April 19th - 315 South Band April 26th - Casey Martin

Stone Country Dance Hall Located at 21080 I-20 West, Lindale (903)882-9855

6 • EGuideMagazine.com

Avengers are nowhere to be found. I guess Iron Man, Hulk, Thor and everyone else is on vacation, because Black Widow says in one scene, “Everyone we know is trying to kill us.” “Everyone,” she says. ​There are a lot of comparisons to the difference between Captain America and everyone else; Stark “Captain America: The embraces the future while Rogers looks to the past.

That idea becomes realized with the real villain this Winter Soldier” films offers: a Captain America shadow, if you will.

Starring Chris Evans, Scarlett Johansson, Samuel “Winter Soldier” might fare better because it isn’t L. Jackson, Robert Redford, Sebastian Stan plagued with backstory like the first film was when ​Grade B fleshing out Rogers’ past; however, the fight sequences After somewhat praising director Joe Johnston become exhaustingly monotonous. The real excitefor his restraint with “Captain America: The First ment here is with Black Widow. Johansson’s talent Avenger” back in 2011, it’s odd that I find “Winter Soldier” a more complete film in the endless barrage and body language really make her the centerpiece.

Another nice little moment, if you know your history, of superior hero movies due to it’s non-stop action is that Redford actually discovered Johansson and cast sequences. The real impressive feat here is comher in “The Horse Whisperer” back in 1998, so their edy directors Anthony and Joe Russo’s (“You, Me & Dupree,” “Welcome to Collinwood”) total switch from “I’m sorry, did I ruin your moment,” scene is pretty special. the type of material they are familiar with. That, or ​Final Thought – It may be Captain America’s it means anyone can direct these types of mindless films, because it’s the producers and studio heads who movie, but Black Widow steals the show. are really in control. Either way, the writing behind Black Widow is great and this film finally chooses to “Draft Day” view her as a main character who is equal to the male Starring Kevin Costner, Jennifer Garner, Frank Langella superheroes.

Grade B ​Steve Rogers (Evans) continues to struggle with This marks the third film from Kevin Costner the modern world. When a fellow ex-military friend and thankfully after the disappointments of “3 Days asks him what makes threatening new protective measures. Nick Furry (Jackson) finds himself at odds to Kill” and “Jack Ryan: Shadow Recruit” this one is something to see. Costner returns to the arena of with his old friend Alexander Pierce (Redford), who sports (“For Love of the Game,” “Field of Dreams”) has a secret agenda that doesn’t include Furry or his where he has done so well in the past. “Draft Day” is a team. Natasha (Johansson) keeps pushing Rogers to film centering around one of the most important and date and get out into the world, but his past, espepolitical components of the NFL, yet we never even cially the events surrounding his best friend Bucky have to watch a single football game during the entire Barnes (Stan), continue to haunt him. film. Directed by Ivan Reitman (“Ghostbusters,” “Six ​The Marvel universe continues to abide by the Days Seven Nights”), this is the most dramatic film he “separate but equal” concept that these movies are has helmed since the 1980s. Finally, speaking of draconnected (events here set up “Avengers: Age of matic, just when I thought her career was a complete Ultron,” mention Stark multiple times, reference loss, Jennifer Garner follows up “Dallas Buyers Club” Hulk, and even Thor), yet logically make no sense that they would exist in the same world. For instance, with what may be her best film role yet.

Faced with the recent death of his father, the when Furry is being brutally attacked in a scene that news of his assistant pregnant with his child, Sonny would have put Washington DC on lockdown, no Weaver Jr. (Costner) faces the most stressful and one comes to his aid; even with the thousands of people witnessing the event. The entire integrity and important day of the year, NFL Draft Day for the reliability of SHIELD is compromised in this film, but Cleveland Browns. It’s finally his turn to pick and entertain, but will have everyone who sees it talking, and in the end that should be the ultimate goal.

Final Thought - Aronofsky’s “Noah” adaption will provide all sides much to discuss after the rainbow appears in the end.

position the team he feels will take the lagging team to the Super Bowl.

However with immense pressure from the team owner (Langella) to make a marketing splash and butting heads with the Browns coach (Dennis Leary), he is overwhelmed and making deals that will affect the future of the team for years to come. We watch the day unfold as he makes and takes important calls making million dollar deals that not only change the team but the players lives.

I’m really surprised that the two screenwriters have managed to give an audience the viable information, for those who know nothing about football, to make this story work. Of course “Draft Day” could be compared to the stock market stress, producers casting a big budget film, etc. Costner returns to the type of stresses, anxiety ridden, jerk-like character he made popular for years in his earlier career. He does this so well and from what I see here, hasn’t lost his touch. The first moment I saw him and Garner together it looked and felt odd, but her role, in context to the film, really made sense and her confidence as a character was something I hadn’t seen her play.

Reitman and the writers turn this into a non-action thriller like “Margin Game,” words become weapons and situations become chase sequences. The film does have some flaws, which are most visibly the distracting wipe lines used throughout the film for transitions or captions. In many of the earlier scenes, no doubt trying to make up for pacing issues, one character will walk across the frame of another, in a sort of gimmick-editing move that does nothing but distract the audience.

The film is strong enough without that garbage to try and appear “new age.”

Final Thought - After two misses in 2014, Costner finally returns to the type of role he is good at.

When Tris (Woodley) goes in for her test, something happens that sets in motion a fate no one could predict. With her results inconclusive, she must strategically choose the faction that will help keep this new secret that would get her killed if made public. ​The comparisons with “Hunger Games” begins with the factions and separation of humans by class to the fearless leading female. Tris has sudden character growth that feels unfounded based on what we see on screen. She comes from the “selfless” faction and very rapidly turns into what her faction calls “first jumper,” the person in the initiators that wants to go first. Woodley does bring a humanity and humble nature to the role that mirrors Katniss Everdine, but I think that was done intentionally. “Divergent” is quite exciting, and the two and a half hour thriller moves quickly, but the audience is asked to retain a lot of knowledge about this new world. ​It is based on a series for young adults, so themes like young love, bullying, and separation from parents are all defining moments for the first part of the trilogy. Oscar winner Kate Winslet as the antagonist was an interesting choice, especially since she was pregnant during the film and is all too obviously only filmed from the waist up in close shots and walks around with a briefcase covering her stomach for the rest of her limited role. The film’s high points are when Tris is tested with bravery and endurance, which is what these types of films survive on. However, if you are familiar with “The Hunger Games” series, some of the obvious and less exciting elements here will make this feel more like a second rate copy. ​Final Thought – Entertaining and adrenaline filled, but never proves to be as creative or emotional as “Hunger Games.”

“Cesar Chavez”

Saturday, April 5th - The Old Firehouse Cinema Independent Film Series Presents “The Sparrow,” starring Marin Ireland and Paul Sparks.

This production starts at 7pm with the doors opening at 6:30pm. When stage fright gets the best of her, a former actress (Marin Ireland) stops leaving her apartment, crippled by fear of the outside world. Living off delivery food and residuals from her acting career, she spends her days watching bad TV and spying on the city from her window. But when her toilet overflows and a kind, compassionate plumber (Paul Sparks) shows up, she reluctantly allows him into her refuge. This is a tender, comical love story, grounded by exceptional performances by Ireland and Sparks. Tickets are $8 in advance plus service fee. For more info go to www.theoldfirehouse.net or call (903)852-ART1 (2781).

Thursday, April 10th - “Happy New Year” Screening - Please join us at Carmike Cinema at 7:30pm for the viewing of “Happy New Year” presented by Stop Soldier Suicide with proceeds going to Stop Soldier Suicide, a non-profit organization that exists to curb suicide attempts among US Soldiers and Veterans. Tickets are available at the box office and at www.tugg.com/events/7690. “Happy New Year” is one of the most brutally honest films out today concerning our military.

Lorrel Manning, writer and director and lead actor and producer Michael Cuomo spent three years interviewing combat veterans from Iraq, Afghanistan, Desert Storm, Vietnam, and WWII, as well as VA personnel and the family members of fallen soldiers, in order to ensure accuracy. The resulting script became a 2008 “Sundance Writers Lab” Finalist as well as a SXSW award winner. All funds raised will go to Stop Soldier Suicide, which fights to save lives by connecting our brave military men and women to free mental health care, as well as additional resources, so they can find relief.

Advanced Preview Screenings - Did you know that “The Breeze” and Times Square Cinema offer advance screenings every Thursday? All you need to do is to “like” Times Square Cinema on Facebook. They announce, usually on Tuesdays, which new release film they will offer each week. Times Square is located at 5201 S. Broadway, (903)581-1818.

Free Movie! Teen Movie Matinees will be held the first Saturday every month at 2pm. For movie title and information please contact the library. Open to ages 12 and up. This is free to attend. The Tyler Public Library is located at 201 S. College, downtown Tyler, (903)593-7323.

Starring Michael Pena, America Ferrara, John Malkovich, Rosario Dawson Grade BI remember first seeing actor Diego Luna in the astonishing “Y tu Mama Tambien.” His career and interest in film has developed over the years and he is now presenting his sophomore directorial feature and his biggest film yet. He worked for years to get this film made; having to seek funding in Mexico, Luna and Malkovich also serve as producers.

Tackling the true story of one American farm worker striking and working towards labor rights has proved a labor of love, as seen at the emotional premiere of the film at SXSW. Luna’s direction is very standardized and straightforward. Clearly, the working with Alfonso Cuaron (now the first Mexican to win Best Director at the Academy Awards) has not influenced the actor turned director.

Already a force for the immigration movement, Cesar Chavez (Pena) moves his wife (Ferrara) and eight children to the town of Delano (central California) in 1962, where he would plant roots and get back into the fields trying to create strength in numbers. Chavez wanted to stop $2 a day wages and the mistreatment of both Filipino and Mexican farm workers. The initial resistance from farmers was brutal, as they had the local police on their side. With the aid of Bobby Kennedy and growing numbers and stunts like fasting, Chavez illustrates the importance of what they are doing for a future generation and simply improving the quality of life.

Luna isn’t interested in obtuse camera angles or memorable cinematography; it’s a linear story told with emotion and backbone. Pena (“Crash, “American Hustle”) has continuously delivered great work his entire career. He chooses roles that allow him to be diverse in a wide variety of genres. Unfortunately, the script never offers Chavez that emotional high note that I, for one, felt it needed. The movie is stirring and informative, but those two things you already expect from a biopic for a historical character. ​Ferrara gets a few memorable scenes as Mrs. Chavez, both when she is taken to prison and in a few other moments where she becomes the more hostile parenting figure. I felt Dawson’s talents in the film were wasted. While her character is important to Chavez’s work, she is under utilized as an actress. Perhaps I was just expecting more, but this film never really set off a fire for me the way something like “Fruitvale Station,” “Ghosts of Mississippi” or other racially motivated pictures have.

Luna is still young, and while his interviews and passion for the project and the movement clearly shows through as he crosses the country promoting it, I see less of that on screen. ​Final Thought – An admirable, although standardized, sophomore effort from actor turned director Luna.

“Divergent”

Starring Shailene Woodley, Theo James, Kate Winslet, Ashley Judd, Jai Courtney, Zoe Kravitz, Miles Teller, Maggie Q, Mekhi Phifer Grade BIt’s simply impossible to watch “Divergent” and not compare it to “The Hunger Games.” Veronica Roth wrote “Divergent” three years after Suzanne Collins published “The Hunger Games,” and with Summit Entertainment desperate to fill the void left by “The Twilight Saga,” the similarities are not merely coincidence. The good news is that we get another female action hero in Shailene Woodley (“The Descendants,” “The Spectacular Now”) but the bad news is she is no Jennifer Lawrence. The futuristic world laid out in “Divergent” isn’t as encompassing as what we saw in “Hunger Games;” the entire first film spends all of its time setting the stage, and the anticlimactic conclusion feels more like an episode or a television pilot than a stand-alone film.

Future world Chicago is surrounded by electric walls to protect the citizens from whatever lies beyond. People are separated into class groups called Factions. Tests administered by the government at the “choosing age” help each person understand which faction they should choose, but the final choice is up to the individual. One faction is the brave (military), honest peacekeepers, who are selfless and intelligent.

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EGuideMagazine.com Dustin’s 2014 “Best” & “Worst”...So Far “Best” Movies

“Hellion” - A“Labor Day” - A“Chef” - B+ “Grand Budapest” - B+ “Boyhood” - B+ “Kelly & Cal” - B+ “At Middleton” - B+ “Predestination” - B+

“Worst” Movies

“I, Frankenstein” - D“The Bag Man” - D“300: Rise of An Empire” - D“3 Days to Kill” - D “Adult World” - D

Liberty Hall, located in downtown Tyler, offers entertainment through film, theater, comedy and music. There is not a bad seat in the house - only 315 to choose from! Most movies are only $5.

Upcoming movies are: April 19th at 1pm................................“The Ten Commandments” May 10th at 3pm................................................. “Steel Magnolias” EGuideMagazine.com • 7

Festivals Red Dirt BBQ and Musical Festival:

The Biggest BBQ Party on Earth

Robert J. Lerma Photography, RobertJLerma.com

When: Saturday, May 3rd, VIP entry is at 2pm with general admission (combo tickets) entry at 3pm. Gates open for the concert at 6pm, with Green River Ordinance is scheduled to take the stage at 7pm. A piece of advice, get there early.

Where: Downtown Tyler Cost: Tickets range from $20 (concert only), $45 (BBQ and concerts) and $90 (VIP which includes early entry, t-shirt, coupons, priority spots for the concerts and more)

Thus, Buzzie’s BBQ was born, and thank God for that.

Buzzie’s first opened in Comfort and they later expanded into their current location in Kerrville. A fire destroyed the Comfort store in 2007, but the Kerrville joint has remained wildly successful thanks to the meat Buzzie puts out on a daily basis.

Buzzie’s tied for Best Brisket at the 2010 “Texas Monthly BBQ Festival” with Cousin’s of Fort Worth (also coming to Red Dirt).

In here, you start with the brisket and spare ribs.

You really don’t have to order anything else because you won’t be able to stop eating these two offerings.

But in case you do, you really can’t go wrong with the sausage, pork or chicken.

Country Tavern, Kilgore

Pitmaster: Toby Pilgrim Traveling East on Highway 31 toward Kilgore from Tyler for many years meant you were doing one of three things: 1. Going to the “line” to get booze, 2. Going to Country Tavern or 3. Both.

The Red Dirt BBQ and Music Festival celebrates the best in Texas Where: Highway 31 and FM 2767, barbecue, music and beer in the first event of its kind in Tyler’s hisKilgore tory. Fifteen of the best barbecue restaurants from all over the state will be on hand to let you sample their tasty smoked meats, some of Owner/pitmaster: Toby Pilgrim the best bands in Texas music will entertain you during the concert, Smokin’ with: Oak, hickory and pecan Smokin’ on: Wood-fired offset smoker and Shiner Bock will be there to keep you properly hydrated. HonOn the web: Facebook estly, who can say anything bad about this fantastic combo - its the You’ll walk inside Country Tavern and be seated like you would best of all worlds. at any normal sit-down restaurant and be greeted by a waiter or waitYou’re probably thinking “The Biggest BBQ Party on Earth” is ress. But here’s the thing: no menus. And why need one? They know excessive but when it comes to the Red Dirt BBQ & Music Festival, what you want. Baby backs, of course. they are certainly going to treat it like the biggest BBQ party.

Back in the day if you sat at a Tavern table you were getting a plate of ribs and a side of potato salad, nothing else. The restaurant has since added more to its arsenal, but the ribs are the star.

Country Tavern has been featured in “Texas Monthly’s Top 50 On Saturday, the BBQ Restaurants” in Texas, was twice a participant at the magazine’s downtown square annual festival and even a man named George W. Bush graced this in Tyler will be filled place’s doors a time or two. with the smells of Third-generation proprietor Toby Pilgrim and his crew go tasty smoked meats. through 5,000 to 6,000 pounds of meat per week and once you try There will be fifteen the ribs, you’ll know why. of Texas’ best barbecue restaurants Cousin’s BBQ, Fort Worth set up around the Pitmaster: Cliff Payne square, giving you Fort Worth is a city full of history with a place called Billy Bob’s, the opportunity to a historic downtown and so much more — and you can’t forget sample meats from about a little place called Cousin’s. each one.

Where: 6262 McCart Avenue, Fort Worth As you go from one BBQ joint’s booth to the next, you’ll get to Owners: Calvin (“Boots”) and Beverly Payne shop with various vendors, enjoy some tasty beverages from Shiner, Pitmaster: Cliff Payne spend some time with the state’s most prolific pitmasters and just Smokin’ with: Hickory have a good time.

Smokin’ on: Wood-fired indirect pit You can expect about a two-ounce sample of meat from each res- On the web: cousinsbbq.com, Facebook and Twitter taurant. Participating BBQ Joints are: For more than 30 years, Cousin’s has been heralded as the best barbecue in Funky Town. And for good reason.

Black’s Barbecue, Lockhart Cliff Payne, a soft-spoken and personal soul, spends his days runPitmaster: Kent Black ning the pits at the business his parents started in 1983. There are Black’s owns a title no other Texas barbecue restaurant can: now six Cousin’s locations, including two at DFW International AirBeing the oldest and still rolling BBQ joint in the Lone Star State. port. But the joint that resides in a simple strip mall off McCart AveWhere: 215 N. Main St., Lockhart nue in Fort Worth is where the real magic happens.

Owners: Edgar and Norma Black With a name Pitmaster: Kent Black like Cousin’s, these Smokin’ with: Post oak folks treat everyone Smokin’ on: Wood-fired Southern Pride rotisserie and offset like they’re fampits ily members. And On the web: blacksbbq.com, Facebook and Twitter don’t be that shy Black’s opened as a Northside Grocery & Market in 1932 and in family member who an effort to use all the meat before it spoiled (no refrigeration back doesn’t want to dive then), it would be made into sausage or smoked and then sold. into the food. The Thus, a legendary BBQ joint was born. hickory-smoked Pitmaster Kent Black is a third-generation family member work- brisket is the star ing at Black’s, and his son Barrett makes a fourth. They carry on a rich here — it won Best history full of delicious smoked meats, much of which is constantly Brisket at the 2010 being shipped to fans all over the country.

“Texas Monthly As unique as Black’s history is the cooking method. Black’s BBQ Festival.” smokes their brisket on a Southern Pride smoker for eight hours with Cousin’s has just oak wood, packs the briskets in coolers for two days and then been featured as one of “Texas Monthly’s Top 50 BBQ Restaurants” puts them back on a regular pit for four hours before serving. in the magazine’s last two lists. You’ll even find Cousin’s Barbecue at Black’s is best known for its incredible, gigantic beef ribs, but Euro Disney overseas. you’ll also find baby back ribs, spare ribs, turkey and sausage on the menu.

The Food

Buzzie’s BBQ, Kerrville

Pitmaster: Buzzie Hughes His given name is Harold Hughes, but everyone knows him as Buzzie. And just as much as customers love his personality, they love Buzzie’s barbecue.

Where: 213 Schreiner, Kerrville Owners: Harold “Buzzie” and Brenda Hughes Pitmaster: Buzzie Hughes Smokin’ with: Live oak Smokin’ on: Wood-fired indirect pit On the web: buzziesbbq.com and Facebook Undoubtedly one of Texas’ friendliest and animated pitmasters, Buzzie Hughes started in the ‘cue business after hosting hundreds at a time at backyard barbecues, and his wife told him to open his own business or take donations.

8 • EGuideMagazine.com

eat” option make Hutchins one of the best food options in North Texas. And the meat Hutchins is putting out each day is quickly becoming some of the absolute best in the Lone Star State.

Hutchins BBQ joined “Texas Monthly’s Top 50 BBQ Restaurants” in Texas in 2013, and the joint put out some of the best meat at the magazine’s annual festival last November.

Hutchins’ pecan-smoked meats are heavy hitters, no matter which direction you go. The brisket is stellar, the ribs are some of the best (period) and the sausage is solid. Tim and co-pitmaster Dustin Blackwell have been testing beef ribs lately, but when you eat one you’d swear they’ve been smoking them for years.

La Barbecue, Austin

Pitmasters: John Lewis There are those who are experienced, the experts and even the masters of their trade. Then you have John Lewis.

Where: 1200 E. 6th St., Austin Owner: LeAnn Mueller Pitmaster: John Lewis Smokin’ with: Post oak Smokin’ on: Wood-fired offset smoker On the web: labarbecue.com, Facebook and Twitter Lewis and La Barbecue both own unique stories and how the two became together. Lewis became one of the titans of Texas ‘cue when he and Aaron Franklin started putting out the world’s best brisket at a little place called Franklin Barbecue in Austin.

Lewis eventually left Franklin, aspiring to open his own joint in California. But before he left Texas, he went into an apprenticeship with John Mueller at then-JMueller BBQ in September 2012 to further educate himself in the art of smoking meat.

But a little more than a month later, JMueller owner LeAnn Mueller, sister to John (and Wayne of Louie Mueller Barbecue in Taylor), fired her brother and hired Lewis as the new pitmaster of what is now known as La Barbecue.

La Barbecue has recently moved from its old location on First Street in Austin and now sits at the corner of Sixth and Waller. What hasn’t changed is the quality of the meats coming off Lewis’ smoker.

His brisket is still arguably the best around, period.

He’s a mad scientist of sorts. Not many pitmasters can boast the versatility of that which Lewis owns. A former pastry chef, he’s a perfectionist to a tee, and his food shows it.

Lewis and his father built a new pit, which you can see but he asks that you don’t take pictures of it. The brisket, beef ribs, turkey and pork ribs are all incredible, but the true magic lies in Lewis’ sausage or “hot guts” as the “La Barbacrew” calls them. Full of snap and pure deliciousness, you’d be hard pressed to find better sausage.

To add to La Barbecue’s rapidly growing reputation, it was just named one of the 25 Best New Restaurants in America by “GQ Magazine.” There’s no fooling around at Sixth and Waller in Austin. It’s legit.

Lockhart Smokehouse, Dallas

Pitmasters: Tim McLaughlin & Will Fleischman No Texas barbecue joint can claim a more intimidating looking pitmaster than Dallas’ Lockhart Smokehouse. Will Fleischman’s tattoos and beard are something you’d often find on the guitar player of a metal band, but make no mistake, this dude knows his meat.

Where: 400 W. Davis St., Dallas Hutchins BBQ, McKinney Owners: Jill and Jeff Bergus Pitmasters: Tim Hutchins & Dustin Blackwell Will Fleischman and Tim McLaughlin Hutchins BBQ in McKinney is a family institution. The blue-collar men- Pitmasters: tality and incredible attention to details has been in the works since it Smokin’ with: Post oak Smokin’ on: Wood-fired Bewley pits was originally called Roy’s Smokehouse in 1978 in Princeton.

On the web: lockhartsmokehouse.com, Facebook and Twitter Where: 1301 N. Tennessee St., McKinney Fleischman’s dry sense of humor is what you’ll often be greeted Owner: Tim Hutchins with when you walk up to the meat counter at Lockhart SmokePitmasters: Tim Hutchins and Dustin Blackwell house, located in the heart of the Bishop Arts District south of DownSmokin’ with: Pecan, hickory, mesquite Smokin’ on: Wood-fired Bewleys town Dallas.

On the web: hutchinsbbq.net, Facebook and Twitter Lockhart is as old school as they come. Order by the pound with Roy Hutchins moved his joint to its current location in McKinno plate specials, or even plates for that matter. Everything is wrapped ney in 1990. Today his son Tim, is the GM and owner of the historic in butcher paper, you take the meat to the table and you’ll dive right restaurant. in. And it helps to have a full bar on location, too.

“Family style” is really the only way to describe Hutchins. The The restaurant is fairly new (it opened in February of 2011), but cafeteria style line, self-serve sides, free dessert and the “all you can there’s history here. Co-owner Jill Bergus is part of the Schmidt family

that runs legendary Kreuz Market in Lockhart (and the new Schmidt Family Barbecue in Bee Cave). Lockhart Smokehouse ships in sausage straight from Kreuz, and the work done by Fleischman and co-pitmaster Tim McLaughlin is some of the best you’ll find in Dallas.

A piece of advice: following Lockhart on Facebook and/or Twitter is a necessity. Specials always pop up, notably “Hump a Beef Rib Day” on Wednesdays (they’re that good).

If Central Texas ‘cue is your style, Lockhart is where to find it in Dallas. The Berguses have since opened a second Metroplex location, opening Lockhart Smokehouse in the heart of downtown Plano.

Louie Mueller Barbecue, Taylor

Pitmaster: Wayne Mueller There are restaurants in Texas. Then you have Texas barbecue restaurants. Then there is Louie Mueller Barbecue.

Where: 206 W. 2nd St., Taylor Owner/pitmaster: Wayne Mueller Smokin’ with: Oak Smokin’ on: Wood-fired offset smoker and brick pit On the web: louiemuellerbarbecue.com, Facebook and Twitter Not many Texas ‘cue joints, or any restaurant for that matter, can claim to have a history like that of Louie Mueller. Sixty-five years, three generations and the reputation of being one of the most historically significant BBQ joints in Texas history make up the fabric of this corner restaurant in Taylor, just outside of Austin.

Louie Mueller opened the first Safeway grocery store in Taylor in 1936. Thirteen years later, after he already had opened his own grocery store, he started selling barbecue. Louie’s son, Bobby, took ownership of the store in 1974 and propelled his father’s restaurant into Texas legend.

Known for a beautifully smoky building filled with melt-in-yourmouth meats, notably perhaps the best beef ribs anywhere, Louie Mueller Barbecue was an institution before most BBQ joints even existed.

Bobby Mueller ran the restaurant for more than 30 years, winning the prestigious James Beard Award in 2006 and having his place featured on Food Network’s “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives” in 2007.

Under Bobby’s direction, Louie Mueller was among “Texas Monthly’s” top five BBQ joints for more than 30 years, an honor the restaurant still owns.

When Bobby died in 2008, his oldest son, Wayne, took over the business and maintains the restaurant’s stellar reputation and, of course, amazing smoked meats. Even when a fire destroyed Louie Mueller’s 54-yearold brick pit last year, Wayne and his crew didn’t skip a beat.

Louie Mueller will forever be one of Texas’ most celebrated barbecue joints, and there’s talk of a second location coming to Houston.

Micklethwait Craft Meats, Austin

Pitmaster: Tom Micklethwait Tom Micklethwait (the “th” is silent) is another newcomer to the barbecue scene, but his impact in Austin has already been felt many times over. With the meats he’s pulling out of the smoker every day, you’d easily be able to figure out why.

Where: 1309 Rosewood Avenue, Austin Owner/pitmaster: Tom Micklethwait Smokin’ with: Post oak Smokin’ on: Wood-fired indirect heat smoker On the web: craftmeats.com, Facebook and Twitter Having “Craft” in the name of his restaurant is no accident. Micklethwait is a careful master of his trade. He’s constantly working to strengthen his product, which is already incredible to begin with.

In less than two years, Micklethwait has vaulted his trailer on Rosewood Ave. into one of the best barbecue joints in Central Texas.

Micklethwait’s work is showcased well through his brisket and spare ribs, and his beef ribs are quickly gaining a big reputation, but where his true talent comes through is in his sausages. Tom is always experimenting, offering various sausages on a daily basis.

“Sausage is a playground,” Micklethwait says. He’s used lamb, duck, and he might even throw out a kielbasa or two. If you like sausage, this is your place.

And if that’s not enough, Micklethwait turns out homemade moon pies. Winner!

Austin is quickly becoming full of barbecue joints. If you’re there just for a visit, it can be overwhelming to decide which restaurants to patronize, but Micklethwait has to be on the list.

Opie’s BBQ, Spicewood

Pitmasters: Marco Oglesby, Seth Glaser and Marina Sanchez The barbecue joints in Austin are getting all the love these days. Which is, of course, warranted. But you can’t forget about this place less than 40 miles west.

Where: 9504 Highway 71 East, Spicewood Owners: Todd and Kristin Ashmore Pitmasters: Marco Oglesby, Seth Glaser and Marina Sanchez Smokin’ with: Mesquite Smokin’ on: Wood-fired indirect smoker On the web: opiesbarbecue.com, Facebook and Twitter

And that’s Opie’s.

Not many Texas barbecue joints opt to cook with mesquite wood, but Opie’s does, and pitmaster Marco Oglesby does it very well.

Opie’s is also unique in the sense that as soon as you walk in the door, you pick your meats right off the pit. Whether it’s brisket, two kinds of sausage, spicy baby backs or several different pork options (the pork chops are ridiculous), you can’t go wrong here.

Todd and Kristin Ashmore have owned and operated one of Central Texas’ top BBQ spots since 1999, and Opie’s can hold its own against any other CenTex heavyweight.

Named after a family favorite dog, Opie’s made its first appearance in “Texas Monthly’s Top 50 BBQ Restaurants” in 2008 and it hasn’t left.

competition in Dallas. The Slow Bone has only been open less than a year, but his smoked meats are still among the best in the Metroplex.

Perkins’ unique building has a killer vibe inside. You’re just a few feet inside before you’re at the meat counter and having to decide if you want brisket, ribs or sausage. We’ll make it easy: Eat it all.

Just as stellar as the meats are Perkins’ sides. The mac and cheese is some of the best you’ll ever have. The homemade hushpuppies and cornbread are so good it’s stupid.

Stanley’s Famous Pit Bar-B-Q, Tyler

Pitmasters: Nick Pencis & Jonathan Shaw One of Tyler’s proudest restaurants is a Mom and Pop barbecue joint tucked into what used to be a pecan grove alongside Beckham Avenue, right across the street from the city’s two hospitals.

Joseph’s Riverport Bar-B-Que, Jefferson Where: 525 S. Beckham Ave., Tyler Pitmaster: Stephen Joseph Owners: Nick and Jen Pencis If anyone knows what it’s like to take your lumps Pitmasters: Nick Pencis and Jonathan Shaw while running a barbecue joint, it’s Stephen Joseph.

Smokin’ with: Pecan Where: 201 N. Polk St., Jefferson Smokin’ on: Wood-fired offset pit and gas-fired Ole Hickory Owner/pitmaster: Stephen Joseph (ribs only) Smokin’ with: Post oak or red oak On the web: stanleysfamous.com, Facebook and Twitter Smokin’ on: Wood-fired Bewley pit Stanley’s Famous Pit Bar-B-Q has a long, proud history in Tyler.

On the web: Facebook and Twitter In 1960 the barbecue joint was bought and renamed by J.D. Stanley, The owner and pitmaster of Joseph’s Riverport BBQ in Jefferson whose name still resides above the front entrance. He and his famsaw his life’s work go up in flames - literally - in the early morning ily owned Stanley’s for more than 40 years until Nick and Jen Pencis hours of January 15th, 2012. The fire destroyed everything but the eventually took over facade of the building. in 2006.

But that didn’t stop Joseph or the small town of Jefferson from Over the past stepping up to rebuild. Jefferson owns a rich history full of stories eight years, Stanand incredible architecture, and Riverport has long been part of that ley’s has evolved history. from a good local Riverport reopened seven months later. With a second chance eating spot into one and a new Bewley smoker, Joseph didn’t skip a beat. In fact, his food of the best barbegot better. And better. cue joints in Texas.

Before he knew it, Joseph’s joint joined “Texas Monthly’s Top 50” Long known for list in 2013 and travelers were making special trips to Jefferson — not their baby back ribs, just to visit antique stores or historic bed and breakfasts, but to eat at for which Stanley’s Riverport. won Best Pork Ribs Post oak resonates on Joseph’s corner of Polk Street downat “Texas Monthtown, and the meat that comes out of that Bewley pit is tremendous. ly’s BBQ Festival” in Whether it’s brisket, spare ribs or his heavenly pulled pork, Joseph 2010 and 2011, Pencis and his staff have improved their meat offerknows how to do it. And it only gets better by each visit. ings exponentially.

The ribs are still killer. But throw some salt- and pepper-rubbed Schmidt Family Barbecue, Bee Cave brisket, pulled pork and arguably the best turkey in East Texas, and Pitmaster: Chad Franks you’ve got a well-rounded plate of tasty smoked meats at Stanley’s.

The Schmidt family’s impact on barbecue in Texas is well-documented.

Pencis, pitmaster Jonathan Shaw and their staff have changed Anyone who knows anything about Texas ‘cue has heard of Kreuz Stanley’s on the food front to the point where the lunch lines regularly Market and Smitty’s. From the same family that built these two line the front of the building, but there are plenty of physical changes, cathedrals of smoked meat comes Schmidt Family Barbecue. too. Stanley’s added dinner service in 2013, expanded and covered Where: 12532 FM 2244, Bee Cave its patio, installed a full bar, and you’ll find live music on the patio at Owners: Susie Schmidt-Franks, Chad Franks and Keith least three days a week.

Schmidt Pitmaster: Chad Franks Stiles Switch BBQ and Brew, Austin Smokin’ with: Post oak Pitmaster: Lance Kirkpatrick Smokin’ on: Wood-fired indirect heat pit There might not be a better mentor in Texas barbecue than Bobby MuelOn the web: schmidtfamilybarbecue.com, Facebook and Twitter ler, who ran Louie Mueller Barbecue in Taylor for more than 30 years.

A family feud and the subsequent split into separate restaurants Stiles Switch pitmaster Lance Kirkpatrick can always say he had Mr. (Kreuz and Smitty’s) was long associated with the Schmidt family, but Mueller as a teacher of smoking meats for almost a decade. that’s all smoke and mirrors now. Members of the family in both res- Where: 6610 N. Lamar, Austin taurants came together to open Schmidt Family Barbecue in Bee Cave Owners: Shane and Catherine Stiles just this year.

Pitmaster: Lance Kirkpatrick The family members even celebrated the restaurant’s opening Smokin’ with: Post oak by using coals from the pits at Kreuz and Smitty’s to start the fire at Smokin’ on: Wood-fired indirect heat pit Schmidt Family. It’s another take on Central Texas style barbecue, but On the web: stilesswitchbbq.com, Facebook and Twitter now in Bee Cave.

Stiles Switch has established itself as one of the heavyweights Schmidt Family boasts a wide menu full of incredible smoked amongst a stellar barbecue scene in Austin. Kirkpatrick is constantly meats, from the regular players (brisket, spare ribs, pulled pork), to putting out fantastic smoked meats, from the incredible fatty brisket various weekly specials like beef ribs, shoulder clod, prime rib and to the peppery beef ribs. The pork ribs and sausage are great, too. even boneless pit ham.

Stiles Switch joined “Texas Monthly’s Top 50” list in 2013 and Schmidt Family Barbecue is still a new face to the world of Texas put out very impressive offerings at the magazine’s annual festival in ‘cue, but this joint’s impact has already been felt and having the November. opportunity to bring together the rich history of one family to our fesIf anything feels familiar about the building when you walk into tival is one neither side could pass up. the store on Lamar Street in Austin, it’s because it is. This is the spot of the Emporium pool hall in the film “Dazed and Confused.” And The Slow Bone, Dallas just like the movie, there’s also plenty of beer to be had inside Stiles Pitmaster: Jack Perkins Switch.

The name Jack Perkins has long been synonymous with But it’s the meats that are the true stars here. You might even having the best hamburger in Dallas. Not anymore. catch yourself saying, “All right, all right, all right” in between bites of Where: 2234 Irving Blvd., Dallas smoky goodness.

Owner/pitmaster: Jack Perkins Smokin’ with: Hickory Smokin’ on: Wood-fired Oyler rotisserie On the web: Facebook and Twitter experience some fantastic Texas tunes throughout the fesMake no mistake, Perkins’ burger at Maple and Motor Burger in tival,You’ll but in the evening is when we’ll bring out some of the heavyUptown Dallas is in Texas music for our three-part concert: Green River Ordiridiculous. But the weights meat he’s smoking at nance, Whiskey Myers and our headliner, Randy Rogers Band.

The Slow Bone just Randy Rogers Band (10:15pm) west of downtown Headlining this year is Randy Rogers Band (RRB). It’s been a long D-Town is equally time since RRB graced Tyler with their presence, so this will be the impressive. biggest show in the Rose City in quite a while.

Perkins entered When a band spends the bulk of its year on the road, its memthe BBQ scene bers are bound to have their share of trouble and strife. shortly after winBut only the truly talented are able to take those trying experining Best Brisket in ences and turn them into enduring art. The Randy Rogers Band is one 2012 at Meat Fight, of those few, and they’ve transformed coal into diamonds yet again on a charity barbecue their latest album for MCA Nashville,“Trouble.”

EGuideMagazine.com • 9

The Music

Teaming up for the first time with producer Jay Joyce (Eric Church, Cage the Elephant, The Wallflowers), the Texas five-piece—vocalist/ guitarist Randy Rogers, guitarist Geoffrey Hill, bassist Jon Richardson, fiddle player Brady Black, and drummer Les Lawless—dove headfirst into songs of loss, love and, above all truth.

“No matter what, trouble always finds us. And that title honestly sums up the last two and a half years of making this record,” Rogers says. “At times it cuts deep and you can hear the pain, but it’s honest, it’s real. On the flip, we like to have a good time and you can hear that too.”

During that time, the band and its extended family suffered an assortment of calamities, including the untimely death of Richardson’s brother. Instead of letting those events derail them, the band pulled together tighter than ever and allowed their personal experiences, pain and loss to seep into their work while hunkering down in the studio with Joyce.

“Getting Jay onboard pumped us up, made us work harder, and made me more creative. I think it reenergized our band,” Rogers says.

“It was a blessing. The timing couldn’t have been better.”

A blessing for both the group and for their passionate fan base, who will no doubt connect with the 11 tracks of “Trouble,” the band’s eighth album. The band has always enjoyed critical acclaim, thanks to their signature blend of outlaw edge coupled with guy-next-door charm. This album takes that duality to the next level.

The first single “One More Sad Song” is a heart wrenching autobiographical tale of the end of a relationship. The sorrow in the lyric is tangible and echoed by a soaring, haunting chorus. “Fuzzy,” with its dirty, swampy groove, is the hazy recollection of a night that many have heard of and only a few have had. And “Speak of the Devil” is about one man’s efforts to forget his ex whose name and memory haunts the darkest corners of his mind. “I came in here to drink to drown you out and watch you sink…to do anything but think. Speak of the devil.”

“This album is a little more out of the box for us. We pushed the envelope intentionally, to try to grow and experiment with our sound in the studio. Knowing the depth of Jay’s talent and his genius, we were all willing to take a chance to expand our range. We felt comfortable in our skin with him and were able to try sounds that are a bit out of the ordinary,” Rogers says. “Glad we took those chances.”

On “Fuzzy,” for instance, the band uses wrenches and cooking equipment to add texture and layers to the sound. The payoff is a unique album with roots that run deep.

“We’ve grown as a band with this record. But I still don’t think we could make an album without the soul and passion that embodies Texas music and it’s heritage,” Rogers said.

“I am definitely proud that we are from Texas. We got our start here and cut our teeth here. To me, it’s the whole reason I have a gig.”

Rogers continued, “Without growing up dreaming to be George Strait or Willie Nelson, there wouldn’t be a Randy Rogers Band.”

As such, there’s a certain cachet attached to the group—an authenticity that can’t be manufactured, and one that is often coveted by other artists.

“We work hard touring, building up our fan base and putting on a good show night after night, over 200 nights a year. I feel like people have grown to respect us for that.” Rogers is nonetheless honored by the group’s three consecutive ACM Award nominations for Vocal Group of the Year. “It’s validating. The ACM nominations, and even the regional awards we’ve won in Austin, mean a lot to the band. I can’t tell you how proud we are every time we hear that we’ve been nominated.”

And they’re equally proud of the fact that their hero Willie Nelson graces “Trouble Knows My Name,” a true-to-life song about the perils of the road that recalls the Red Headed Stranger’s own “Me and Paul.”

“We went out to Willie’s studio to record his vocal and guitar tracks. That is a day I’ll never forget. Having him on our record and being able to be in the studio while Willie Nelson was recording - priceless.”

“In the verse that Willie sings, there really was a guy hanging halfway out of our bus after a show in New Orleans,” Randy says. “We scared him off, and he came back and threw a bucket full of concrete through the window trying to get back in.”

“If I Had Another Heart” is a track that honors one of the band’s influences, Radney Foster, who produced three of the group’s previous albums. “We’ve always been huge fans of Radney and we always try to include him in our records. He was one of my first mentors and I’ve learned so much from him. “If I Had Another Heart” is an incredible song, it really fits what we do as a band on the stage. We were excited he let us cut it, we hope we made him proud.”

Which is exactly where the band excels: on the concert stage.

Under those bright lights they actually develop new songs, reinterpret old favorites and, most importantly, forge a connection with their audience before heading back to the studio and employing what they’ve learned. Such was the case with “Trouble.”

“We like to view albums as snapshots. It’s a photo of where the five of us are and where we came from. We made this record as a team and we’re really proud of it. It showcases who we are as a band and we got to include some of our heroes—and you just can’t beat that,” Randy says.

Whiskey Myers (8:30pm)

In a modest rent house in the small East Texas town of Elkhart, Texas, Cody Cannon and Cody Tate began to write music, only 10 • EGuideMagazine.com

dreaming of the success that is sure to follow.

They began to incorporate the talent and imagination of friend and guitarist John Jeffers. At that time, they called themselves Lucky Southern, though they had only three members. As time passed, with their inspiration mounting, they moved to Tyler, Texas.

There they met up with Jeff Hogg, a mutual friend and drummer from Palestine, Texas, and Gary Brown, a bass guitarist who had grown up in Neches, Texas. They decided to give it a real shot and came to be known as Whiskey Myers. Soon, the group was playing private parties on flatbed trailers in small towns around East Texas.

The sound they emitted was something more unique than anyone had expected. From their first show in Montalba, Texas, a young Whiskey Myers was hooked on performing, and the crowds were hooked on them.

In the spring of 2007, they were given the opportunity to open for Roger Creager at Gator’s Bar and Grill in Gun Barrel City, Texas. The club owner was so impressed by their performance and the crowd that had come to the stage that he asked them to come back the next weekend to open for The Eli Young Band.

From then on, popularity for the band began to swell.

They were heard on live stages all over East Texas, in interviews on local radio stations, and seen on television giving live interviews. Suddenly it seemed that the whole region knew who Whiskey Myers was, and everyone was becoming familiar with their high energy twin guitars, soulful vocals, and unstoppable rhythm.

Whiskey Myers’ musical style was forged from several different genres of music from several different eras. The most obvious of these are the blues rock jam bands such as Lynyrd Skynyrd, The Allman Brothers Band and Led Zeppelin.

Whiskey Myers takes the blues rock genre and mixes it with modern day Texas Country such as Reckless Kelly, Randy Rogers, and Cross Canadian Ragweed to derive a new sound that is sure to take concert listeners on an atmospheric roller coaster. With a sound like no other and a stage presence that captivates anyone close enough to notice, a live concert performed by this young band is something that must be seen to be believed.

The Tyler area has been instrumental in the development of Whiskey Myers from a group of musicians to a band.

As the group continues to expand its fan base, new listeners all over Texas are beginning to recognize their talent.

They continue to engulf listeners with their sound, ensuring that the name Whiskey Myers is one that will be remembered for ages to come.

Whiskey Myers’ latest endeavor is the recently released Early Morning Shakes, their new album released Feb. 4 of this year. The record symbolizes an incredible amount of growth in the band, and its success has already been exponential.

Green River Ordinance (7pm)

Over the decade-long journey from their first incarnation as 13 and 14 year old kids in Fort Worth, Texas to the upcoming release of their latest EP, “Chasing Down the Wind,” Green River Ordinance has evolved steadily.

“Chasing Down the Wind” features the continued growth of Green River Ordinance’s honest, hopeful songwriting, and soaring harmonies. Written on the banks of the Caney Fork River in rural Tennessee, “Chasing Down the Wind” captures the spirit and freedom that comes from escaping the rush of the big city and rediscovering the simple things in life.

Green River Ordinance’s intensity and strong fan connection prompted EMI to sign them to Capitol Records and in 2009, the band’s debut album, “Out of My Hands,” shot to the top of the Billboard charts and catapulted their two singles, “Come On” and “On Your Own” into the top 40. Green River Ordinance has shared stages with acts like Bon Jovi, Train, needtobreathe, Zac Brown Band, Counting Crows and the GooGoo Dolls, among many others.

Green River Ordinance has had their music played on 56 network and cable shows, in three films, and had their videos featured on MVP, VH1 and CMT. Green River Ordinance’s independent follow-up record, “Under Fire,” propelled by the success of the singles “Dancing Shoes” and “Heart of Me” in both Country and Hot AC formats, continued to push the band’s national success reaching the Billboard top 100 chart.

Walking the lines of country, rock, pop, and folk, Green River Ordinance is a band that constantly challenges the borders of genre.

The Bigsbys (4:30pm)

The Bigsbys are full of soul and passion, and that’s just the guys in the band. Their music carries that much weight plus a whole lot more.

These (mostly) bearded rockers from Palestine, Texas, are out and about the state and beyond performing songs from (and anxiously awaiting the release of) their new album, “Good Will Suitcase,” due out April 1st.

Take it from us: We’ve heard it, and it’s good.

Taking cues from the likes of Creedence, Uncle Lucius, the

Vaughan brothers and some country infusion, The Bigsbys own a unique sound that knows how to make you move.

The Bigsbys described it best when talking about their music, “Gritty, yet easy on the ears.”

Can you think of a better way to spend a Saturday in Tyler?

Tickets

There are three options for tickets:

(V)ery (I)mportant (P)erson

A VIP ticket entitles you to enter the BBQ festival an hour earlier than the rest, plus you’ll get a t-shirt, your first two drinks are paid for and you’ll have a sweet spot right in front of the stage for the concert.

Tickets are $90 per person.

General Admission Combo

The GA ticket gives you access to both the BBQ festival and the concert. Paying for a general admission ticket to the BBQ event includes samples from every restaurant. Tickets are $45 per person.

Concert Only

If delicious beef, pork and more isn’t your thing and you just want to come to the show, we can take care of that. Gates will open for the concert at 6pm, with Green River Ordinance scheduled to take the stage at 7pm. Tickets are $20 per person.

Children 3 and under will be accepted into the festival for free, though we request you share your food samples with children younger than 3 to allow for enough food for everyone. Anyone older than 3 years old will require a ticket.

Tickets are available at the gate and at reddirtbbqfest.com/tickets.

Events

Sunday, April 13th - 5th Annual Teddy Bear Picnic - The Children’s Park of Tyler will hold this annual event, 11am-2pm. Bring a blanket and picnic lunch for your family and join the fun including story telling, face painting, music, rock climbing, flower planting, crafts, games and many photo opportunities with your family throughout the park. Children can bring their favorite teddy bear and make a $1 donation to the park. Children’s Park is located at 900 S. Broadway on the corner of Dobbs St., Tyler. For more info go to childrensparktyler.org.

Free Dale Carnegie Training Preview Session will be held Tuesday, April 8th starting at 5:30pm at Holiday Inn, 5701 S. Broadway Ave., Tyler. “Skills for Success” will be the topic. “Success is getting what you want. Happiness is wanting what you get.” The Dale Carnegie Course is designed to maximize the growth of people, thus ensuring the growth of organizations. Practical, specific skills are taught along with concrete principles of success that enable people to take an active role in the forward movement of their organization. This is a free preview introduction class for the event that begins Tuesday, April 22nd at 4pm. Look around at successful business people, world leaders, professional athletes and entertainers. You’ll find a disproportionately high number of “Dale Carnegie Course” graduates. This course will help you master the capabilities demanded in today’s tough business environment. You’ll learn to strengthen interpersonal relationships, manage stress and handle fast-changing workplace conditions. This course will be held at One REALTOR© Center, 2772 SSE Loop 323, Tyler. This course meets April 22nd and every Tuesday night for 8 weeks ending on June 10th, 4-7:30pm. To sign up go to dfw.dalecarnegie.com/events/dale_carnegie_course/20140422/ register/. Cost is $2000 per person (not a typo, $2000).

Friday, April 11th - Age of Champions: Conference on Active Aging will be held at The University of Texas at Tyler Student Center. This will be held 9am-5pm. View the “Age of Champions” documentary, dialog about active aging with a panel of local seniors and professionals in the field, enjoy relevant break-out sessions and keynote by international leader on the Brain Health Lifestyle®, Paul Nussbaum, Ph.D., ABPP, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. Continuing Education credits are available for most disciplines.

Event sponsored by Alzheimer’s Alliance of Smith County and co-sponsored by The University of Texas at Tyler, Agency on Aging of East Texas, and Alzheimer’s Support Auxiliary for People. Fees are $100, which is for 6 CE credit hours, $25 for non-credit family members and caregivers, and $10 for students. Lunch is included.

For more info go to www.alzalliance.org or call (903)509-8323.

Thursday, April 10th - Tyler Day Nursery’s 6th Annual Storybook Dinner “An Evening in Paris” - Tyler Day Nursery board of directors presents “6th Annual Storybook Dinner Fundraiser “An Evening in Paris” inspired by Ludwig Bemelmans author of Madeline series. The 2014 honorees will be 13 founders of Tyler Day Nursery from Tyler Council of Church Women in 1936 (in memoriam), Loving Spirit Award; Pilot Club of Tyler for their 70 years of involvement, Helping Hands Award; and Mrs. Anita Breimayer, Past President 2001 and 2004, Gracious Heart Award. Join us for this fun evening to celebrate the oldest non-profit childcare organization in Texas. Your continued support ensures that we can care for our children in a safe and loving environment. This will be held starting at 6:30pm at the Rose Garden Center, Bluebonnet Room. For more info call (903)592-4861 or log on to www.tylerdaynursery.org. Cost is $50 per ticket.

Things to Do

27th Annual I-20 Team Real Estate Championship Rodeo: Mark your Calendars for May’s Highlight Event

A Tyler Tradition of Excellence

By Amanda Main

Caldwell Zoo, a fun and exciting place to experience and learn about live, exotic animals, exists right here in Tyler, Texas! The zoo originally developed in 1937 out of a preschool program at the home of founder D.K. Caldwell, where he kept parrots, monkeys, squirrels, and other animals in cages for children to observe. D.K. moved the animals to the current zoo site in 1953 and opened the Caldwell Children’s Zoo. D.K. passed away in 1977 and his nephew Hayes Caldwell now runs the zoo.

Visitors from all over have complimented the zoo on its attractiveness and cleanliness, often comparing it to major zoos many times larger. The zoo attracted more than 280,000 visitors last year, with the busiest month at the zoo being March. Some days during spring break more than 6,000 people visit the zoo.

This year the zoo’s latest big news is the birth of the lion cubs.

The four cubs — three females and one male — were born January 22nd to mother Njeri (whose name means “daughter of a warrior”) and father Ayotunde (whose name means “joy has returned”) after a gestation period of 108 days. A fifth cub was born with the litter but died shortly after birth. Mammals Curator Scotty Stainback, who has worked at Caldwell Zoo for 25 years, says the mother and cubs are doing very well and that the zookeepers have been taking their time in introducing the cubs to their father.

“We have done a soft introduction, where we have a howdy gate in between him and the cubs so they can actually see each other and they can actually touch noses between the wire, but he has not physically been inside the cage with them,” Stainback says. Ayotunde has been gentle toward his cubs and like their mother, he has made soft, non-aggressive grunting noises toward his cubs.

Caldwell Zoo’s previous litter of lion cubs came 20 years ago and Leo the lion, who still lives at the zoo, was one of that litter. Leo still goes on exhibit at the zoo, alternating with the younger adult lions, who each will turn 3 years old in July.

Stainback says he expects the new lion cubs will be with Caldwell Zoo for at least two years, depending on recommendations from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). Animals at Caldwell Zoo fall under the AZA Species Survival Plan (SSP). Under that program, AZA provides guidelines to zoos on what to do with animal populations between zoos.

Caldwell Zoo’s collection mainly showcases three continents: Africa, South America and North America. Caldwell Zoo is home to 214 species and 51 subspecies, with a total animal count of 3,468.

The African section features African elephants, reticulated giraffes, black rhinoceros, African black-footed penguins, black-and-white Colobus monkeys and Grevy’s zebra. Among the South America section are two kinds of tamarins (a small primate), capybaras (the

The Lindale Area Chamber of Commerce and City of Lindale is excited to announce the upcoming 27th Annual I-20 Team Real Estate Championship Rodeo to be held Thursday, May 15th thru Saturday, May 17th at the Lindale Rodeo Arena located on Highway 16 West, three blocks from downtown. Nightly entertainment will begin each evening at 6:15pm with the Rodeo Events following at 7:30pm.

Highlighting the Thursday event will be Mutton Bustin’ starting at 6:15pm. Friday night pre event entertainment will also be Mutton Bustin’ for the kids. Saturday Night rodeo fans will listen to live music before the event.

Entertainment for all performances will include the spectacular Cowgirl Chicks from Weatherford, Texas. The Cowgirl Chicks warm up the crowd with family-friendly dance choreography and trick ridworld’s largest rodent) and the giant anteater. The North America sec- ing that is show stopping. These professional trick riders and singers tion boasts longhorn, black bears, alligators and two rescued bald are a crowd favorite and truly exciting to watch. eagles. Caldwell Zoo also is home to two white tigers and many repA fan and contestant favorite for over twenty years, the I-20 tiles and tarantulas.

Team Lindale Championship Rodeo promises loads of fun for the Visitors can get up close and personal with goats in the Petting entire family. We expect over 500 contestants to compete for over Pen and birds in the Wild Bird Walkabout, where visitors can hand- $60,000 in prize money in exciting events like bull riding, bareback feed the birds with a seed stick costing $1. The seating area of the and saddle bronc riding, steer wrestling, team roping and more.

Chakula Café, the larger of the zoo’s two concession stands, offers dinChildren seven to twelve can compete for prizes in the calf scramers a fantastic view of the African overlook area. ble, while children six and under can compete for cash in the fan Stainback says Caldwell Zoo is a very exciting place to be. “I just favorite “cash scramble.” love what I’m doing, and I think it’s a really good thing for the comThe Lindale Area Chamber of Commerce and City of Lindale munity — for the Caldwells to be able to set up something this great looks forward to seeing you in Lindale for the 27th Annual I-20 Team that people can come out and enjoy, no matter what your age is,” he Real Estate Lindale Championship Rodeo. Adult advance tickets can says. “You can be a really young kid, or you can be an elderly person, be purchased at the Chamber office and at local area merchants for and still come out here and just be blown away by the animals and $6. Call the Chamber at (903)882-7181 for ticket locations or visit the grounds that are out here. www.lindalechamber.org. Advance rodeo tickets are free for children “And seeing nature like it is, and to be able to see animals from 12 and under. Please note that advance ticket sales will end at 6pm other countries that you would never otherwise see...to me, that’s just each evening. Adult tickets purchased at the gate are $8 and $5 for such a fantastic thing. I still see things even after 25 years of working children. here, and it’s just the neatest thing I’ve ever seen. There’s always something new here, and that’s what I enjoy the most about it.”

The zoo’s annual Earth Day celebration will take place this month First Tuesday of the Month - The IDEA Gardening Series is an inforon Saturday, April 19th from 1-4pm. The event features local orgamative lecture series covering gardening topics suitable for a particular nizations and activities that will educate people about caring for the month. The lectures are held on the patio in the IDEA garden, which environment. is located in the southeast corner of Tyler’s Rose Garden starting at 12 The zoo offers ongoing educational classes and overnight camps noon. There is limited seating. You may want to bring a lawn chair for all year long. your comfort. The lecture will run for about 30 minutes followed by a Caldwell Zoo question and answer session. The dates for the spring “First Tuesdays” 203 W. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Tyler are as follows: April 1st: Container Gardening; May 6th: Butterflies and (903)593-0121 Hummingbirds; and June 3rd: Succulents. Lectures are sponsored by www.caldwellzoo.org the Smith County Master Gardeners Association and the Texas AgriHours: 9am-5pm March through Labor Day; Life Extension Service. It is held at The Tyler Rose Gardens, 420 Rose 9am-4pm Labor Day through February Park Dr., Tyler, (903)670-3302.

Daily admission: Free for zoo members; free for children 2 and younger; $7 for children ages 3 to 12; $10.50 for adults ages 13 to 54; Friday-Sunday, April 3rd-6th - East Texas Dog Scout Mini Camp - Its $9.25 for seniors 55 and older. A 20 percent discount is available for not too late. Sign yourself and your doggie up for this fun camp, earn badges, learn training techniques and experience new things with your groups of 15 or more if paid in a single transaction. dog. This will take place at Camp Tyler Outdoor Classroom,15143 Annual memberships: $39 for an individual; Camp Tyler Rd, Whitehouse, (903) 565-4475. Cost is $245 which $89 for families; $30 to add a guest. includes training and room and board. To reserve your spot call Rentals (require photo I.D.): Stroller and wagon rentals are (903)592-1188. $6 plus tax; wheelchair rental is $6.79 plus tax.

Cont. Page 12

Events

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Cont. from Page 11

April 4th-17th - 25th Annual Corporate Challenge - The Tyler Parks and Recreation Department is hosting the 25th Annual Corporate Challenge. The Corporate Challenge offers friendly, athletic competition among companies who want to enhance their employees’ quality of life.

Participating is a great a way for your employees to network with other professionals and provide business exposure to the numerous spectators expected to attend. Teams or individuals may participate in events that range from darts and dominoes to basketball and softball. There is even a new co-ed flag football event planned for this year. There are 14 events overall and participants can take part in as many or few as they choose. Companies can also have more than one team per event. To download the Corporate Challenge event packet, visit www.TylerParksandRec.com and look under the blue “Events and Programs” tab. Companies who sign up for all 14 events are given a discount. An awards ceremony will conclude the Challenge immediately following the last event at the Glass Recreation Center on April 17th. For more information, contact Gerald Palafox at (903)531-1377.

Friday, April 4th - Brick Street Village First Friday - This fun get together features all the area merchants in the new historic Brick Street Village, located at W. Phillips, S. College, S. Bois D’Arc and W. Rusk St. area in the Azalea District. There will be sales, refreshments, walk in gardens and more. You can stroll through the shops where you will find specials, door prizes, music, demonstrations and lectures. Call (903)939-8878 or (903)533-1771 for more info. Admission is free.

Friday, April 4th - “The Addams Family” will be presented at UT Tyler Cowan Center starting at 7:30pm. “The Addams Family” is a smash-hit musical comedy that brings the darkly delirious world of Gomez, Morticia, Uncle Fester, Grandma, Wednesday, Pugsley, and, of course, Lurch to spooky and spectacular life. “A visually satisfying, rib-tickling, lunatic musical that will entertain you to death,” according to Toronto Post City. This magnificently macabre new musical comedy is created by “Jersey Boys” authors Marshall Brickman & Rick Elice, Drama Desk-winning composer/lyricist Andrew Lippa (“The Wild Party”), choreographer Sergio Trujillo (“Jersey Boys”), and Olivier Award-winning costume and set designers Phelim McDermott & Julian Crouch (“Shockheaded Peter”) with direction by four-time Tony Award® winner Jerry Zaks. Tickets start at $22 at are available at www.cowancenter.org or the Box office at (903)566-7424.

Friday-Saturday April 4th-5th - ETSO Piano Festival - Francesco and Friends will take place both nights at 7pm at Liberty Hall, 103 E. Erwin St., downtown Tyler. The first annual Piano Festival is a two-night event with ‘Night 1’ featuring a concert with acclaimed Italian pianist Francesco Attesti and local favorites Holly Marsh, soprano, and Claudia Carroll, flute. ‘Night 2’ features a solo recital by acclaimed Italian soloist Francesco Attesti.

Mr. Attesti will perform works by Liszt, Chopin, Bach, Brahms and more. Tickets are $20 for adults and $10 for students for each performance.

Friday-Saturday, April 4th and 5th - Annual Garage Sale at Trinity Lutheran Church will take place Friday, 8am-5pm and Saturday 8am-3pm.

Trinity Lutheran Church is located at 2001 Hunter St., Tyler. This annual fundraiser garage sale offers electronics, computers, appliances, furniture, jewelry, kitchenware, glassware, pottery, toys, clothing plus lots and lots of other good things you need and want. There will be food available for sale on Saturday too. For more info call (903)593-1526 or www.tlctyler.org.

Saturday, April 5th - 2014 Domino Run - The LPEVFD will host it’s First Annual “Domino Run.” It is open to everyone, whether you ride a motorcycle or not. There will be a poker run styled “Domino Run,” that ends in a cash prize paid out to highest and lowest hand. Other activities include Bike Games, Bike Show, Food, Entertainment and fun for the whole family. The “Domino Run” is a charitable event to help raise money for the Lake Palestine East Volunteer Fire Department for much 12 • EGuideMagazine.com

needed equipment. This will take place at the Lake Palestine East Volunteer Fire Dept., 2340 FM 346 N., Bullard, (903)954-0439.

Saturday, April 5th - Keep Tyler Beautiful’s Spring TrashOff - Be a volunteer “Friend of the Board” and join Keep Tyler Beautiful for the annual Tyler TrashOff. We will be gathering at the Southside Park Pavilion on Donnybrook just south of Shiloh Rd. Teams of helpers will fan out along Rose Rudman Trail and Southside Trail in a total cleanup of the trail and creek. There will be prizes, snacks and drinks provided. This is sponsored by Keep Tyler Beautiful which is an 11-member board of volunteers who work for the general improvement of the community by planning, initiating and coordinating programs for litter control, environmental sustainability and beautification. Meet at the Southside Park Pavillion on Shiloh Road at 8am.

For more info call (903)531-1348.

Saturday, April 5th - Rambling Roses Anniversary Dance will be held 7-9:30pm at the Fairwood Methodist Church, 1712 Old Omen Rd., Tyler.

Celebrating 43 years promoting square and round dancing, this wholesome fun evening is good for all ages. Everyone is welcome. There is a suggested donation of $6 from the dancers but spectators can attend for free. Call (903)566-4538 or go online at www.easttexsquaredancing.com.

Thursday-Saturday, April 3rd-5th - 2014 Apache Belle Spring Show - The internationally famous precision dance team presents an evening of entertainment featuring a theatrical script full of dance and fun for all ages. This is held at the Wise Auditorium on the Tyler Jr. College, 1400 E. Fifth St., Tyler. Tickets can be purchased online at www.apachebelles.com or at the box office one hour before show time. Tickets are $8 for Thursday night (7:30pm) or Saturday matinee (2pm); Friday and Saturday (7:30pm) are $13. The Saturday show will probably sell out so be sure to purchase in advance.

Saturday, April 5th - McClendon House Murder Mystery: “Murder at the Azalea Ball” - Find the clues, ask questions and solve this live action murder mystery set in the 1960s in Tyler, Texas following the success of the first Azalea Trail.

This will be a lot of fun. It is held one night only, 7-10pm, at 806 W. Houston, Tyler. For tickets or more information call (903)592-3533 or go online at www.McClendonHouse.net. Tickets are adults $20, children $10. There is limited tickets.

April 7th Tyler Twilight Easter Egg Hunt - This is a great time for families to get together.

All children will be using two ball fields this year and hunt according to age groups. The first hunt begins at 6:45pm for Special Needs Children on Field 3. Lights will remain on and parents may assist their children. At 7pm, 3-5 year olds will hunt eggs on Field 4. Lights will continue to remain on and no parents are allowed on the field. At 7:20pm, 6-8 year olds will hunt on Field 3 with the lights off and no parents on the field. At 7:45pm, 9-10 year olds can hunt eggs on Field 4 with the lights off and no parents are allowed on the field. No strollers and no children under the age of 3 will be allowed on the fields.

There will be karaoke, booths and the opportunity to take your own picture or have your picture made with the Easter Bunny. This will be held at Glass Recreation Center, 501 W. 32nd in Tyler. For more info call (903)595-7271.

Thursday-Saturday, April 10th-12th - Tyler Children’s Clothing Consignment Sale - “Where Smart Moms Find Great Deals!” will take place at Harvey Convention Center, Tyler. Over 1,000 East Texas families gather twice a year to sell their gently used, name brand items. They will fill over 30,000 sq. ft. as well as a tent outside in the parking lot. They have it all - toys, clothes, books, furniture, baby equipment, maternity items as well as household furniture and home decor. Visit www.cccsale.com for more details or call (903)705-2236.

Saturday, April 12th - “A Warm Welcome - Landscape Tips for Curb Appeal” gardening class will be held at Tyler Rose Garden Center, 420 Rose Park Dr., Tyler at 9am. Come to this morning program where Dee Bishop, Smith County Master Gardener and longtime landscape professional, will share

ideas on how to easily set out a colorful and inviting welcome mat to your home with plants. Artfully planted and strategically placed containers and small beds can create a dramatic and warm welcome to your front door, even if you are a renter. Demonstration planters will be offered as door prizes. Cost is $15 (or $45 for a season pass to all seven Lecture Series programs). Call (903)590-2980 for more info.

“Saving Water with Drip: Drip Irrigation Basics and Applications” will be presented May 17th.

Saturday-Sunday, April 12th-13th - “April in Edom” - This fun event is an old-fashioned small town street fair featuring unique handmade items, tasty fair food, live music, pet parade, live auction, children’s activities, classic car show, and more, all amongst a backdrop of the quaint artists colony of Edom, Texas. It will take place 10am-5pm daily, downtown Edom, located on Hwy 279, west of Tyler. You can call (214)478-8999 or go to www.VisitEdom.com for more info.

Saturday, April 12th - 2nd Annual Family Fun Day for Autism Awareness - “ArtsView Children’s Theatre is once again joyfully serving our community through singing, dancing, and entertaining.

Join the ArtsView Encore Players for a free day of family fun at Teague Park in support of Autism Awareness. P3A (Positive People with Positive Attitudes) is hosting this unique, fun event from 10am-3pm. The Encore Players will perform, and there will be face painting, bounce houses, arts and crafts, food, and more. Come celebrate the many different faces of autism and help spread awareness.” Go to artsviewchildrenstheatre.com or call (903)236-7535.

Saturday, April 19th - Breezester 2014 will take place at Bergfeld Park, 1510 South College Ave., Tyler. This is the largest Easter Egg Hunt in East Texas. We didn’t anticipate the huge turn out last year so we are making changes and adding 10’s of thousands more eggs. This event is free and its larger than its ever been with thousands and thousands of eggs added this year. In addition to the hunt, there will be other activities for all ages including bounce houses, face painting, kid’s yoga, music by The Breeze, Tai Chi, a dunking booth and of course a huge Easter Egg Hunt. The Easter Egg Hunt will start at 2pm.

Saturday, April 19th - The 1st Annual Bowler Derby event will be held at Green Acres Bowling Alley starting at 5pm. Cost is $50 for 2 person Teams to participate and its free to attend at watch.

The entry fee includes shoes, lanes and food. You can register at easttexasbombers.com/events.

Friday-Sunday, April 25th-27th - Junior Achievement Bowling For Scholars Bowl-AThon - Teaching kids in the Tyler area about free enterprise education is right up our alley. That’s why we are on pins and needles with excitement about our 24th annual Bowling For Scholars BowlA-Thon. This only takes about 2 hours of your time on one of these days. There will be four people on a team and all you have to do is bowl 2 games.

There is no cost to enter. Each bowler collects $50 in pledges which will be donated for the cause.

Call Junior Achievement at (903)581-7482. If you want to register a team to bowl the deadline is April 15th. This will take place at Green Acres Bowl, 2311 ESE Loop 323 in Tyler. For questions call (903)581-7482.

Saturday, April 26th - Parents Services Autism Expo - Parent Services Center invites parents and caretakers of Autistic children and those who service them to an Expo which will showcase the autism resources, treatment options, and services available in our area. If you just want to attend, the cost is $25. Exhibitors’ costs are $100 for a Booth Exhibit or $250 for a booth exhibit and a live 10 minute presentation to the group. Spaces are still available. This will take place at UT Tyler Campus, 3900 University Blvd., Tyler. For questions call (903)595-2235 or go to uttyler.edu.

Saturday, April 26th - 5th Annual YMCA Run for Your Life 5K - Come have a great time and participate in the Fun Run 1/2 Mile beginning at 8:30am and the 5K Run which begins at 9am at the Whitehouse YMCA, 301 Terry St., Whitehouse. This run is a large fundraiser each year for the YMCA that supports the “YMCA Strong Kids Campaign,” which is a scholarship program.

These scholarships allow low-income families to participate in membership services, day care, day camps, sports and swimming. The Fun Run for the children or children and parents is at 8:30 am (1/2 mile run) which is free. The first 100 people to sign up will get a “Run for Your Life” t-shirt. Pre-registration for adults till April 24th is $15 and students is $10. The day of race costs are adults $20 and students $10. For more info call (903)839-9622 or visit www.tylerymca.org.

Saturday, April 26th - Funniest Comic in East Texas - Come down and watch this stand-up competition and see who wins the title at Liberty Hall on April 26th at 8pm. Each contestant will have five minutes to win the crowd over in their favor. At the end of the night the audience will vote to determine who is East Texas’ funniest comic. The winner of East Texas’ Funniest Comic 2014 will return, as champion, to perform at the East Texas Comedy Festival on June 13th and 14th. “We’re really excited about how receptive audiences have been to comedy in East Texas and we decided to make The East Texas’ Funniest Comic a stand-alone event as the kick off to the third annual East Texas Comedy Festival,” said Jamey Whitley, producer of the East Texas Comedy Festival. Tickets to attend the show and make your vote count are now on sale at LibertyTyler.com.

Tickets are $15 online and $20 at the door one hour before the show starts. VIP box seats are $100 and accommodate up to four people. For more info go to LibertyTyler.com, or call (903)595-7274. Liberty Hall is located downtown Tyler at 103 E. Erwin St., downtown Tyler. The mission of Liberty Hall is to create an arts and entertainment experience that will integrate the arts into the downtown’s social, economic and community fabric by providing diverse opportunities for entertainment, through film, theater, comedy and music.

Saturday, April 26th - “Stroll through the Arts,” presented by ArtistsNation and “EGuide Magazine,” will take place 1-9pm, downtown Tyler.

Come out and enjoy local music, art and artisan creations during this free event. The popularity of the Sidewalk Art Strolls, Art Walks and Art Markets have made these events a highly desirable venue for art, artisan vendors, merchants and performers.

Our last Art Market was a huge success, bringing in large amounts of sales for all many different types of vendors. Booth spaces are still available, to reserve your booth go to artistsnation.org/artists-nationpresents-art-stroll. ArtistsNation would also like to thank “EGuide Magazine” for sponsoring this event and for their generous scholarship giveaways.

“EGuide Magazine” will be awarding scholarships to TJC and UTT students that have participated in the “EGuide Magazine” Cover Contest. ArtistsNation will display all entries at the Art Stroll and winners will be announced at the event.

Sunday, April 27th - Interfaith Holocaust Memorial Program - In commemoration of Yom HaShoah (Holocaust Memorial Day), an interfaith Holocaust remembrance program will be held at 2pm on Sunday, April 27th, at Congregation Ahavath Achim, 3501 S. Donnybrook, Tyler. Guest speakers include the Honorable Barbara Bass, Mayor of the City of Tyler; Ginger Brandt and Rob Mason, First Christian Church; Father Hank Lanik, Chancellor, Catholic Diocese of Tyler and more. Designed to remember and honor victims and survivors of the Holocaust, this year’s program will focus on the resistance movement - those who fought valiantly for survival and were instrumental in helping to bring down the Nazi regime. The program is free and open to the public.

This will be held at Congregation Ahavath Achim, 3501 S. Donnybrook, Tyler. For questions call (903)521-1067.

Saturday-Sunday, May 3rd-4th - “Kilgore Geekend” is the first annual RC Comics event to celebrate Free Comic Book Day May 3 and 4 in Downtown Kilgore with a costume contest, free comic books and lots more. Every year on the first Saturday in May, comic book stores around the country hand out a pre-selected list of free comic books to shoppers. RC Comics, Geek Eazy and Tours of Tyler have joined forces for the “Kilgore Geekend.” The event will combine artists to food vendors, children’s activities, fun events and performers for the whole family. For more info, call (817)715-2925.

Music Tyler Community Concert Association: Check out TYLER LIVE Concerts at the Caldwell Auditorium

By Jimmy Arbor

President Gini Rainey and the Board Members of Tyler Community Concert Association invite you out to a family friendly venue of amazing talent from all over the country.

I had the pleasure of joining them last season and I have had the best time attending these concerts. I have seen comedian Dale Gonyea who was named “Classic Comedian of the Year,” Franc D’ Ambrosio who is best known as the “Phantom” in Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Tony Award winning Musical, “The Phantom of the Opera,” Jesse Lynch Jazz 101, and The Diamonds (an oldies Rock-n-Roll show). I enjoyed them all very much.

These events are presented by The Tyler Community Concert Association, “Bringing a World of Entertainment to Tyler for 58 Years.” They were established in 1933 by Tyler Civic Music and merged with Community Concerts in 1955 to form Tyler Community Concert Association. Their mission, “to bring artists and audiences together” by presenting top entertainers at reasonable prices for the cultural enrichment of the community.

In 2003, they partnered with Live On Stage, LLC. They are a totally volunteer organization with a 501c(3) designation from the IRS. The concert season for Tyler runs from September to April. This fall Al Simmons will begin the season on October 16th. Al has an award-winning slap-stick comedy act full of jokes, gadgets and gags.

This world-renowned comedian delivers classic Vaudevillian comedy and musical humor which is perfect for the whole family.

Then on January 13th, 2015 The Rob Verdi SAXsational will perform. Rob will be entertaining you with 50 years of Jazz and Pop standards. He also shares his rare and unusual instrument collection and he will be accompanied by a local band or ensemble. This will be a superior engagement for the Tyler community.

Next on February 5th, 2015, Good Company will be inspiring nostalgia with vintage music from across the United States. They will bring a kaleidoscope of R&B, Rock, Gospel and Bluegrass. Iconic American roots music for you to remember and enjoy.

On March 15th, 2015 will be Live from Nashville, a high-octane country show with song, dance, breathtaking scenery and costumes.

Hear the songs that gave Music City its name.

Ending the season April 14th, 2015 William Florian will present “Those Were the Days.” A perfect combination of musician and storyteller. Come feel the spirit and hear the folk songs of the 60’s. He loves to interact with the audience as he tells his humorous stories. Come be inspired.

Support the Tyler Community Concert Association by becoming a member. Season tickets for the series are adult $70, students$35,

Family tickets (includes 2 Adult Season Tickets & Tickets for all children under 22 at home) are $170. These family packs can be customized.

You can learn more information by www.tcca.biz.

News & Events

Sunday, April 6th - “Changing a Life Tour” Concert will feature Audio Adrenaline, Kutless, Finding Favour and Shine Bright Baby. It will begin at 7pm at Lanes Chapel United Methodist Church in Tyler.

Tickets are for student general admission $10, general admission group (10+) $15 each, and general admission individual, $20. VIP Gold Circle are available as well for $50. Lanes Chapel is located at 8720 Old Jacksonville Hwy, Tyler. For more info call (903)561-5703.

Tickets are available at www.itickets.com/events/319033.html.

Weekend of April 11th-12th - Come out for an “Old Fashioned Street Dance” (Saturday, April 12th, 4-7pm) and “Jeff Allen Hometown Weekend 2014” at Moore’s Store both days. The event will take place in the parking lot of downtown shops, Harrison & Son Knifesmith and Blue Moose right off of Farm-to-Market 279 in Ben Wheeler. The event is sponsored by Heartland Park and Recreation and Mercedes Custom Boot Makers. Guests will enjoy music by Phat Johnny and the Buicks and a plateful of crawfish for just a $12 ticket fee. The fundraiser will benefit the Ben Wheeler Arts & Historic District Foundation (BWA & HDF) the 501 c (3) organization founded by Brooks Gremmels, who passed away in January. He and his wife Rese Gremmels started the foundation to help bring the town back to its current revitalized state, as well as to maintain it, in years to come. If street dancers want to take a break from boot scootin’, or would like to arrive prior to the street dance, American Emporium and Secret Garden Embroidered Art and Gifts is also hosting a “Sip & Shop” that day, 2-6pm. These shops will offer tastings of local wines. Additionally, American Emporium will

have a gourmet food fair featuring Country Living and Truly Texas. The rest of the downtown artists and merchant shops will also be opened during the Street Dance. For more information about the Old Fashioned Street Dance, please call (903)833-1070. After the dance, guests looking to enjoy music, food and fun the rest of the night can head over to Moore’s Store, which is hosting Jeff Allen Band’s annual, “Hometown Weekend 2014.” His Hometown Weekend actually begins Friday, April 11th, with Heather Little, Matt Bradshaw and Chase McClanahan at 8pm, Breaking Southwest at 9pm, and Old Dominion at 10:30pm. But, the next night, Saturday, April 12th, after street-dancing fun ends at 7pm, guests can head over to continue their evening at the finale of Jeff Allen’s weekend with a music lineup including Matt Fisher at 8:30pm, Clay Thrash at 9:45pm, and Jeff Allen closing it out at 11pm. “Jeff Allen Hometown Weekend 2014” ticket information can be found at MooresStore.com. For more information and/or questions, please contact (903)833-5100.

Sunday, April 13th - Soul Food for Lent Musical Program - First Presbyterian Church of Tyler continues to offer the community a widely-varying style of music to nourish souls during the Lenten season. All concerts are given at no charge for admission and begin at 5pm on their respective Sunday afternoons. The setting is the sanctuary of First Presbyterian Church, 230 W. Rusk St., Tyler. The building is handicapped-accessible, with parking available on the west and south sides of the building. The Tudor Rose Ensemble opened the series with “Cathedral Echoes” featuring a choral evensong on Sunday, March 16th and Sunday, March 30th, the series presented soprano Angela Brown and pianist Kelleen Strutz in a program titled “Watch and Pray.” The last of the series is an afternoon of music in the traditions of southern gospel and African-American spirituals which will conclude the series Sunday, April 13th. The program will feature members of the chancel choir of First Presbyterian Church with Donald Duncan at the piano. A complete brochure on the 2013/2014 fine arts series is available for download at www.fpctyler.com/finearts.

All programs are open to the community at no charge.

Saturday, April 25th - New Wine Ministries Benefit Concert will take place at 7pm at Grace Community Church, 3215 Old Jacksonville Rd, Tyler, featuring Casey Rivers with Jessie Prestridge, Kallee Rhodes and Jamie Lynn Flanakin. Donations of $5 will be accepted at the door. This benefit concert is for New Wine Ministries, Inc., a faith-based transitional housing program for female ex-inmates with transitional housing and re-entry family services to improve their lives in mind, body and spirit. If you would like to donate before the concert, they can be mailed to New Wine Ministries, Inc., P.O. Box 6574, Tyler, Texas 75711. For more info call (903)714-1251 or www.newwineministriesinc.com.

Saturday April 26th - The Old Firehouse Acoustic Concert Series presents “A Very Special 5 Year Anniversary Concert with Amy Speace” starting at 7:30pm with doors opening at 7pm. “There are voices that serve as a bridge from the past to the future and act as soul connectors, and as a people we need to keep them singing.

These voices open hearts with this rare, one in a million quality. Amy Speace has such a voice,” says fellow singer songwriter Mary Gauthier.

After releasing two well-received albums on Judy Collins’ Wildflower Records, “How to Sleep in a Stormy Boat” is Amy’s second record since migrating south from her longtime home in the NYC area. Amy has appeared on NPR’s “Mountain Stage,” “Acoustic Café,” and “All Things Considered,” and has been described in USA Today as “a rising star.” Anyone touched by life’s ebb and flow, angst and joy, will identify with the beautiful lyrics and melodies of Amy’s songs, carried along

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the exquisite instrument of her voice. Join us in the only concert “listening room” in the area. Tickets are $12 in advance, $15 at the door. For more info go to www.amyspeace.com, www.theoldfirehouse.net or call (903)852-ART1 (2781).

Last Tuesday of each Month, April 29th, 7-9pm - Songwriter Workshop will be held monthly at Brady’s Coffee Shop, 309 W. Rusk St., Tyler. We’ve had a lot of interest from some new folks lately, so get there early to grab a seat. We are limiting our song feedback to no more than 10 songs, just so we can fit it all in a 2-hour time window. Please bring typed lyrics, at least a dozen, if not more, if you planned to present a song for feedback. You can perform your song live, or use our playback system of either a CD or iPod docking station. Brady’s is gracious in offering us a free meeting space each month, so let’s return the grace by purchasing and enjoying a beverage from their wide variety of offerings. For questions contact NSAI East Texas Chapter, (713)628-5625, “like” them on Facebook at “NSAI East Texas” or nashvillesongwriters.com “It All Begins With A Song!”

Upcoming -

The “Far Out Art Fest and June Bug Music Festival “welcomes you to their far-out event Saturday, June 21st and Sunday, June 22nd. The Far Out Fest is a juried art show in downtown Ben Wheeler, hosted again by the Artists & Merchants Association. Extremely well attended last year, this ArtFest draws buyers from all over East Texas, including Dallas/Fort Worth, Tyler and Longview.

The June Bug Music Festival strives to reach a wider audience by elevating Ben Wheeler and our 279 sister city, Edom, Texas, as the cultural hub of the Upper East Side of Texas. This year we have Ray Wylie Hubbard headlining the music with a spotlight on true Texas Americana singer songwriters who have opted to do it themselves without the hand of Nashville. In a region with airwaves dominated by clear channel, we invite you to explore unfiltered music at its finest. Voted one of the “Coolest Small Towns in East Texas” by “Texas Highways” magazine, Ben Wheeler has been revitalized and has become a popular get-a-way destination for people from all over the state. Vendor and artist applications are available at benwheelertx.com.

Music Guide Tuesday, April 1st

Coach’s & Cowboy’s – Karaoke, 8-12 The Shed, Edom – Pickin & Grining, 6-9 Where’s Rufus – DJ , 8-12 Wednesday, April 2nd

The Back Porch, Kilgore – Mathew Marcus, 7-10 Click’s Live – Karaoke, 8-12 Coach’s & Cowboy’s – Karaoke, 8-12 Cork – Dustin Becker 7-9, The Forge, Ben Wheeler – Open Mic, 6-9 Lago Del Pino – Open Mic, 9-12 Leon’s, Longview – Blues Jam with Jonny & The Night Crawlers, 8-11 Sports Zone – DJ Cicero, 8-12 Stanley’s BBQ – Mike Acoustic, 7-10 Thursday, April 3rd

Circle M Crawfish – Karaoke, 5-9 Cork – Jazz Trio, 7-9, DJ, 9-12 The Forge, Ben Wheeler – Ramoth Gilead, 7-10 Iron Horse – Karaoke, 8-12 Half Moon – DJ, 8-11 Moore’s Store, Ben Wheeler – Karaoke, 8-11 Potpourri House – Paul Ruark, 6:30-9 Purple Pig – Open Mic, – 6-9 Shoguns – Open Mic, 7-10

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Stanley’s – BBQ & Blues, 6-9 Friday, April 4th

The Back Porch, Kilgore – Tuxedo Cats, 8-12 Clicks – Paco Estrada, Kid Icarus, Distant Lights, 9-1 Cork – Jazz Trio, 6-9, DJ Cicero, 9-12 Crossroads – Karaoke, 8-12 Dick’s Cajun Grill, Mt. Selman – DJ Krash Karaoke, 8-12 The Forge, Ben Wheeler – Kasey Lansdale, 7-10 Halfmoon – Live Music, 8-12 Iron Horse – Bobby Edwards & The Blue Cats, 8-12 Jakes – Keith Rea, 8-11 Lago Del Pino – Live Music, 8-11 Mario’s – Live Jazz 6-10 Moore’s Store, Ben Wheeler – Eleven Hundred Springs, 8-12 Potpourri House – Bobby & Ken, 6:30-9 Purple Pig live acoustic music, 6-9 Ricks – Space Rockers, 8-12 Stanley’s BBQ – The Effinays, 9-12 Wrights BBQ – Hoss Huggins, 7-10 Yamato – DJ, 9-12 Saturday, April 5th

The Back Porch, Kilgore – Shinebox, 9-1 Breakers – Marc Beevers, 8-10 Circle M Crawfish – Live Music, 7-10 Clicks Live – This Day Forth, Rocket Queen, Heartsease, 9-1 Cork – Distant Lights,7-10, DJ Austin Day, 10-1 Dick’s Cajun Grill, Mt. Selman – Live Music, 8-12 The Forge, Ben Wheeler – Craig Wallace, 3-6, Stefan Cotter, 7-11 Fresh – The Magills, 6-9 Half Moon – DJ, 9-1 Iron Horse – Todd Freeman, 9-1 Jake’s – Little man Zac, 8-11 Lago Del Pino – Live Music, 8-12 Mario’s – Live Jazz Moore’s Store, Ben Wheeler – Austin English, 8-11 Potpourri House – Bobby & Ken, 6:30-9 Rick’s – Rat Ranch, 9-1 Shoguns – Live Music, 8-12 Stone Country Dance Hall, Lindale – Interstate 20 Band, 9-1 XLN – Pocket Red Flag, 9-1 Where’s Rufus – DJ 8-12 Wrights BBQ – Karaoke, 7-10 Yamato – Karaoke, 9-1 Sunday, April 6th

Circle M Crawfish – Karaoke, 6-10 Iron Horse – open Mic, 3-7 XLN – Karaoke, 8-12 Monday, April 7th Tuesday, April 8th Coach’s & Cowboy’s – Karaoke, 8-12 The Shed, Edom – Pickin & Grining, 6-9 Where’s Rufus – DJ , 8-12 Wednesday, April 9th The Back Porch, Kilgore – Jedidiah Crisp, 7-10 Click’s Live – Karaoke, 8-12 Coach’s & Cowboy’s – Aaron Watson, 8-12 Cork – Dustin Becker 7-9, The Forge, Ben Wheeler – Open Mic, 6-9 Lago Del Pino – Open Mic, 9-12 Leon’s, Longview – Blues Jam with Jonny & The Night Crawlers, 8-11 Sports Zone – DJ Cicero, 8-12 Stanley’s BBQ – Mike Acoustic, 7-10 Thursday, April 10th Circle M Crawfish – Karaoke, 5-9 Cork – Jazz Trio, 7-9, The Magills, 9-12 Clicks – Wayne Static, 9-12 The Forge, Ben Wheeler – T.J. Broscoff, 7-10 Iron Horse – Karaoke, 8-12 Half Moon – DJ, 8-11 Moore’s Store, Ben Wheeler – Karaoke, 8-11 Potpourri House – Paul Ruark, 6:30-9 Purple Pig – Open Mic, – 6-9 Shoguns – Open Mic, 7-10 Stanley’s – BBQ & Blues with Blue Louie, 6-9 Friday, April 11th

The Back Porch, Kilgore – Keith Horton, 8-12 Clicks – The Komplex, White Lighter, Pocket Tangerine, 9-1 Cork – Jazz Trio, 6-9, DJ Mike, 9-12 Crossroads – Karaoke, 8-12 Dick’s Cajun Grill, Mt. Selman – DJ Krash Karaoke, 8-12 The Forge, Ben Wheeler – 4 Way Street, 7-10 Halfmoon – Live Music, 8-12 Iron Horse – Big Hotel, 8-12 Jakes – Logan Strong, 8-11 Lago Del Pino – Live Music, 8-11 Mario’s – Live Jazz 6-10 Moore’s Store, Ben Wheeler – Heather Little, Matt Bradshaw, Chase McClanahan, Old Dominion, 8-12 Potpourri House – Bobby & Ken, 6:30-9 Purple Pig live acoustic music, 6-9 Ricks – Boogies, 8-12 Stanley’s BBQ – Brownout, 9-12 Wrights BBQ – Hotel Drifters, 7-10 Yamato – DJ, 9-12 Saturday, April 12th

The Back Porch, Kilgore – Lady Chazz & The Tramps, 8-12 Breakers – Live Music, 8-10 Circle M Crawfish – Live Music, 7-10 Clicks Live – Live Music, 9-1 Cork – Lauren Shay Bailiff, 6-9, DJ Austin Day, 9-12 Dick’s Cajun Grill, Mt. Selman – Live Music, 8-12 The Forge, Ben Wheeler – Heather Little & Matt Bradshaw, 7-10 Half Moon – Live Music, 9-1 Iron Horse – Teezer, 9-1 Jake’s – Dustin Becker, 8-11 Lago Del Pino – Brandon Rhyder, 9-12 Mario’s – Live Jazz Moore’s Store, Ben Wheeler – Matt Fisher, Clay Thrash, Jeff Allen 8-11 Potpourri House – Bobby & Ken, 6:30-9 Rick’s – The Stars, 9-1 Shoguns – Live Music, 8-12 Stone Country Dance Hall, Lindale – Mark Fields Band, 9-1 Where’s Rufus – DJ, 8-12 Wrights BBQ – Live Music, 7-10 XLN – White Trash Wannabee’s, 9-1 Yamato – Karaoke, 9-1 Sunday, April 13th

Circle M Crawfish – Karaoke, 6-10 Iron Horse – Open Mic, 3-7 XLN – Karaoke, 8-12 Tuesday, April 15th

Coach’s & Cowboy’s – Karaoke, 8-12 The Shed, Edom – Pickin & Grinin, 6-9 Where’s Rufus – DJ , 8-12 Wednesday, April 16th

The Back Porch, Kilgore – Cole, 7-10 Click’s Live – Karaoke, 8-12 Coach’s & Cowboy’s – Live Muisc, 8-12 Cork – Dustin Becker 6-9, The Forge, Ben Wheeler – Open Mic, 6-9 Lago Del Pino – Open Mic, 9-12 Leon’s, Longview – Blues Jam with Jonny & The Night Crawlers, 8-11 Sports Zone – DJ Cicero, 8-12 Stanley’s BBQ – Mike Acoustic, 7-10 Thursday, April 17th

Circle M Crawfish – Karaoke, 5-9 Clicks Live – The Foundation, 9-12 Cork – Jazz Trio, 6-9, DJ Cicero, 9-12 The Forge, Ben Wheeler – Wesley Pruitt, 7-10 Iron Horse – Karaoke, 8-12 Half Moon – Live Music, 8-11 Moore’s Store, Ben Wheeler – Karaoke, 8-11 Potpourri House – Paul Ruark, 6:30-9 Purple Pig – Open Mic, 6-9 Shoguns – Open Mic, 7-10 Stanley’s – BBQ & Blues, 6-9 Friday, April 18th

The Back Porch, Kilgore – What The Funk, 8-12 Clicks Live – Live Music, 9-12 Cork – Jazz Trio, 6-9, DJ Cicero, 9-12 Crossroads – Karaoke, 8-12 Dick’s Cajun Grill, Mt. Selman – DJ Krash Karaoke, 8-12 The Forge, Ben Wheeler – Kirby Kelly, 7-10 Half Moon Grill – Live Music, 8-12 Iron Horse – Something Blue, 8-12 Jakes – Bongo and The Point, 8-11 Lago Del Pino – Live Music, 8-11 Mario’s – Live Jazz Moore’s Store, Ben Wheeler – Kris Gordon, 8-11 Potpourri House – Bobby & Ken, 6:30-9 Purple Pig – Live Acoustic Music, 6-9 Rick’s – Electric Circus, 8-12 Stanley’s BBQ – Uncle Lucius, 9-12 Wrights BBQ – Briley Vaughan, 7-10 Yamato – DJ, 9-12 Saturday, April 19th

The Back Porch, Kilgore – Ally Venable Band, 8-12 Breakers – Live Music, 8-10 Circle M Crawfish – Live Music, 7-10 Click’s Live – The Foundation, 9-1 Cork – DJ Austin, 10-1 Crossroads – DJ, 9-1 Dick’s Cajun Grill, Mt. Selman – King Richard & The Bayou Boys, 9-1 The Forge, Ben Wheeler – Craig Wallace, 3-6, Rick Babb, 7-10 Fresh – Live Music, 6-9 Iron Horse – Ricky Lynn Greg, 9-1 Jakes – Tyler Lenius, 9-12 Mario’s – Live Jazz 6-9 Moore’s Store, Ben Wheeler – Chase & The New South, 8-11 Potpourri House – Bobby & Ken, 6:30-9 Ricks – Live 80, 9-1 Shoguns – Live Music, 8-12 Stone Country Dance Hall, Lindale – 315 South Band, 9-1 Where’s Rufus DJ , 9-1 Wrights BBQ – Karaoke, 6-9 XLN – Young Ones, 9-1 Yamato – Karaoke, 9-1

Sunday, April 20th

Circle M Crawfish – Karaoke, 5-9 Iron Horse – Open Mic, 3-7 XLN – Karaoke, 8-12 Tuesday, April 22nd

Coach’s & Cowboy’s – Karaoke, 8-12 The Shed, Edom – Pickin & Grinin, 6-9 Where’s Rufus – DJ JB, 8-12 Wednesday, April 23rd

The Back Porch, Kilgore – Clayton Jones, 7-10 Circle M Crawfish – Live Music, 5-9 Click’s Live – Karaoke, 8-12 Cork – Dustin Becker 7-9, Coach’s & Cowboy’s – Live Music, 7-11 The Forge, Ben Wheeler – Open Mic, 6-9 Lago Del Pino – Open Mic, 9-12 Leon’s, Longview – Blues Jam with Jonny & The Night Crawlers, 8-11 Sports Zone – DJ Cicero, 8-12 Stanley’s BBQ – Mike Acoustic, 7-10 Thursday, April 24th

Circle M Crawfish – Karaoke, 6-10 Click’s Live – DJ , 8-12 Cork – Jazz Trio, 7-9, DJ Mike, 9-12 The Forge, Ben Wheeler – Blacktop Gypsy, 7-10 Half Moon – Live Music, 8-12 Iron Horse – Karaoke, 8-12 Moore’s Store, Ben Wheeler – Karaoke, 8-11 Potpourri House – Paul Ruark, 6:30-9 Purple Pig – Open Mic, 6-10 Shoguns – Open Mic, 7-10 Stanley’s – BBQ & Blues with Blue Louie, 6-9 Friday, April 25th

The Back Porch, Kilgore – Dazed, 8-12 Circle M Crawfish – Live Music, 7-10 Click’s – Live Music, 8-12 Cork – Jazz Trio, 7-9, DJ Mike, 9-12 Cross Roads – Karaoke, 8-12 Dick’s Cajun Grill, Mt. Selman – Karaoke, 8-12 The Forge, Ben Wheeler – Matt Bradshaw & Heather Little, 7-10 Jul’s – The Magills Iron Horse – Karaoke, 8-12 Jakes – Ramoth Gilead, 8-11 Lago Del Pino – Live Music, 8-12 Mario’s – Live Jazz, 6-9 Moore’s Store, Ben Wheeler – The Whiskey Prophets, 8-11 Potpourri House – Bobby & Ken, 6:30-9 Purple Pig – Live Acoustic Music, 6-9 Ricks – Empire 6, 8-12 Stanley’s BBQ – Wood & Wire, 9-12 Wrights BBQ – Jonathan Farnsworth, 7-10 Yamato – DJ, 9-12 Saturday, April 26th

The Back Porch, Kilgore – Dennis Ross & The Axberg, 8-12 Belcher Center, Longview – Masters of Funk Tour, 7:30pm Breakers – Richard Callahan, 8-10 Circle M Crawfish – Live Music, 7-10 Clicks – Stillbent, Truman Syndrome, Driven Below, 9-1 Cork – Kid Icarus, 7-10, DJ Rufus, 10-1 Dick’s Cajun Grill, Mt. Selman – Ally Venable Band, 9-1 The Forge, Ben Wheeler – Craig Wallace, 3-6, Ben Lowery & Wes Hendrix, 7-10 Halfmoon Grill – Live Music, 9-1 Iron Horse – Anthony Riley Band, 9-1 Jakes – Behind The Wall, 9-12 Lago Del Pino – Live Music, 9-1 Mario’s – Live Jazz, 6-9 Moore’s Store, Ben Wheeler – Rusty Brothers, 8-11 The Old Fire House, Edom – Amy Speace, 7pm Potpourri House – Bobby & Ken, 6:30-9 Ricks – Empire 6, 9-1 Shogun – Live Music, 7-11 Stone Country Dance Hall, Lindale – Casey Martin, 9-1 Where’s Rufus DJ , 9-1 Wrights BBQ – Karaoke, 6-9 XLN – Todd Freeman & Bullet Proof, 9-1 Yamato – Karaoke, 9-1 Sunday, April 27th

Circle M Crawfish – Karaoke, 5-9 Iron Horse – Open Mic, 3-7 XLN – Karaoke, 8-12 Tuesday, April 29th

Coach’s & Cowboy’s – Karaoke, 8-12 The Shed, Edom – Pickin & Grinin, 6-9 Where’s Rufus – DJ, 8-12 Wednesday, April 30th

The Back Porch, Kilgore – Ally Venable Band, 7-10 Clicks live Karaoke, 8-12 Coach’s & Cowboy’s – Live Music, 7-11 Cork – Dustin Becker 7-9, Lago Del Pino – Open Mic, 8-12 Leon’s, Longview – Blues Jam with Jonny & The Night Crawlers, 8-11 Sports Zone – DJ Cicero, 8-12 Stanley’s BBQ - Mike Acoustic, 7-11

Battle of the Bands in Ben Wheeler

Moore’s Store and The Forge have collaborated to create the first ever Battle of the Bands in Ben Wheeler on Sunday, April 27th, in hopes of not only hearing the fresh talent, but producing a climate conducive to celebration, creative conversation, and new music.

This year up to five bands will be selected to compete for a chance to entertain at the “Junebug Music Festival” on June 21st in Ben Wheeler at The Forge Pavilion. The winner will play in the same line up as Ray Wylie Hubbard, The Dam Quails, Oil Boom and Stefan Cotter.

“JuneBug Music Festival is a concert I would go see. The lineup is unbelievable. If I were a performer, it would be a gig I’d want to do. The Battle of the Bands is a simple way to get there,” Sara Brisco, Owner of The Forge, asserted with a grin. “The word’s out, Ben Wheeler is ‘the’ place to play,” Brisco added Joseph Drew, Event Coordinator at Moore’s Store explained, “We’ve received numerous press kits, emails, demos, etc. from multiple genres. We go all out to build talent, support live music, and spark a mood that embraces originality. Battle of the Bands offers the musicians networking contacts, exposure, media attention and a paying gig on a heavyweight roster.”

Event details, contest rules, and entry forms can be found at www.benwheelerevents.com Submission deadline is April 20th. Applicants must provide URL links, or some way to hear their music. Hard copies of recorded submissions are acceptable, and must be hand delivered to The Forge. A panel of three judges will decide the final winner on April 27th, based on a predetermined criteria and point system that will be available on the website. Call (903)833-5100 with questions.

The 2nd Annual Tyler Paranormal Conference

The 2nd Annual Tyler Paranormal Conference will be held on April 26th at the Tyler Civic Theater in Tyler starting at 7am. This years event will be bigger and even better than last years and promises lots of exciting lectures, demonstrations, star-gazing and more. There also will be many vendors at the conference selling everything from crystals to autographed books on the paranormal.

This year, the guest list includes: • Returning from last year • Psychic & ghost hunter Judy Griffin • Haunted home owner Mitchel Whitington • Paranormal Observers of East Texas Brandy Rice • UFO researcher Sunny Williams • Forensic paranormal investigator Martha Decker • Cryptozoology (Bigfoot, Mothman, etc) expert and TV star Ken Gerhard • Psychic and para-investigator specializing in demon/evile entity removal Mike McCaskill • Healer, psychic, Reiki expert & crystal/stone energy practitioner Arleen Gregg

New for this year -

• Psychic and spiritual guide/cleanser Veronica Smith • Junior Paranormal League “Ghoulies & Ghosties” Alexis & Tessa • Paranormal researcher, author, and healer Dr. Rita Louise • Psychic teacher, medium, healer and guide Maria Elena Santos • Famous paranormal investigators The Paranormal Junkies • SyFy Channel TV stars Deep South Paranormal • New England Paranormal Research founder John Brightman • Para Encounters Network star & F.E.A.R Paranormal founder Selena Roane • Central Texas Paranormal & “My Ghost Story” star Paul Coffey • Paranormal author T. L. Jones • Paranormal investigating team Tyler Paranormal Society Also, a highlight of the show will be guests from the original “Ghost Hunter Store.”

The Itinerary: (2 auditoriums simultaneously) 7am -

Doors open and continental breakfast is served (doughnuts, coffee, fruit, juice, etc); tickets are available to purchase at the door 8am - Brandy Rice, “Para-Bullying”-Mike McCaskill, “Demons - What & Where are They? & How to Deal with Them” 8:30am - Alexis & Tessa, “Junior League Ghost Hunting and Growing up with Paranormal Sensitivity” 9am - Sunny Williams, “UFO Sightings & Abductions in Texas”-Paul Coffey, “Experiencing WW2 Spirits in Germany & Sensing Ghosts”

10am - Maria Elena Santos, “Coping with Children with Extra Sensory Abilities and Spirit Guides”Selena Roane, “Prophetic Dreams, Empathic Ability, and Investigations with FEAR Paranormal” 11am - Judy Griffin, “Reading Auras and Receiving Messages from Beyond” 12 noon - Lunch is served in the Rose Garden 1pm - Veronica Smith, “Entity Attachments & Removal”- Arleen Gregg, “Healing with Stones & Crystals” 2pm - Mitchel Whitington, “Living With the Dead in One of the Most Haunted Houses in America” - T.L. Jones, “Writing Paranormal Literature” 3pm - Dr. Rita Louise, “Extraterrestrials in Antiquity” - Ken Gerhard, “Searching for Bigfoot and other Cryptozooligical Creatures in Texas” 4pm - Deep South Paranormal (Randy & Kevin, “Southern Investigations and Intense Situations” 5pm - Martha Decker, “Paranormal Investigating from a Police Forensics Point of View” - John Brightman, “Murder Case of Cult Leader Carl Drew & New England Investigations” 6pm - The Paranormal Junkies, “Civil War Ghosts” 10pm - Overnight Ghost Hunt begins at FOUR haunted locations. Check back frequently as we begin to reveal our hunting grounds.

(NOTE: Some of these hunts may be filmed for TV.) 4am - Para-Con 2 ends for this year.

Meet Our Guests...

Randy & Kevin, SyFy Channel’s Deep South Paranormal

They bring with them experience and knowledge that is hard to find elsewhere. From the dark bayous of New Orleans, their tales will certainly entertain and their experiences will astound you.

Don’t miss your chance to meet and chat with them.

John Brightman, New England Paranormal Research

John Brightman, founder of New England Paranormal Research, has been investigating for nearly a decade. Growing up in the Freetown State Forest, part of the Bridgewater Triangle of Massachusetts, inspired John to found this organization. Specializing in the infamous murder cases of cult leader Carl Drew, as well as Mary Lou Arruda, John’s lectures will captivate every audience with his macabre tales and astonishing evidence.

John’s outstanding research and state-of-the-art precision to gather evidence has led him to being featured on shows like the “Ghost Adventures,” “ My Ghost Story,” “ World’s Scariest Places” and even international shows in over a dozen countries.

For more info, tickets or any questions call (214)621-0607 or www.toursoftyler.com/ paranormal_conference.

EGuideMagazine.com • 15

Theatre

Belushi Out, Brady In:

“Whose Line Is It Anyway?” Star, Wayne Brady, to Perform at UT Tyler Cowan Center

Due to a movie role, Jim Belushi has canceled the Jim Belushi and the Chicago Board of Comedy performance.

Improvisation comedian Wayne Brady has been added to the 2013-14 season at The University of Texas at Tyler R. Don Cowan Fine and Performing Arts Center.

For over a decade, Wayne Brady has been entertaining audiences with his acting, improv, singing and dancing on television, film and the stage. He began his career in Orlando, Fla., working for both the Disney World and Universal theme parks.

He can currently be seen on CBS’s “Let’s Make a Deal” and “How I Met Your Mother.”

He is also the star and executive producer of the CW’s “Whose Line Is It Anyway.”

Wayne is the voice of Clover the Rabbit on Disney Jr.’s #1 rated animated series “Sofia the First.” A triple threat, the singing, dancing and acting comedy man will appear at the Cowan Center as part of his national “It’s My Line” tour.

Brady will take the stage at 7:30pm Friday, May 2nd.

Ticket prices are $27-$62 and can be purchased at the UT Tyler Cowan Center box office by calling (903)566-7424 or online at www.cowancenter.org. Box office hours are 9-4pm Monday - Friday.

“Hello Dolly!” at Brook Hill

“Hello Dolly” - A Book by Michael Stewart, Music & Lyrics

by Jerry Herman; Directed by Glenn Ballard with Music Direction by Patti Eden Brook Hill Theatre is proud to present this entertaining production May 2nd-3rd and 9th-10th at 7:30pm.

“Hello, Dolly!” is a musical with lyrics and music by Jerry Herman and a book by Michael Stewart, based on Thornton Wilder’s 1938 farce “The Merchant of Yonkers,” which Wilder revised and retitled “The Matchmaker” in 1955.

“Hello, Dolly!” was first produced on Broadway by David Merrick and Champion-five, Inc., winning a record 10 Tony Awards, including Best Musical, a record held for 35 years. The show has become one of the most enduring musical theatre hits, enjoying three Broadway revivals and international success. It was also made into a 1969 film that was nominated for seven Academy Awards. Brook Hill Theatre will definitely be able to capture the fun of this award-winning production.

For tickets call the school Box Office at (903)894-5000.

East Texas Crisis Center Production at Tyler Civic Theatre

“Hope Unchained – A Dramatic Theatrical Production” will be at 7pm at Tyler Civic Theatre, Thursday, April 24th.

This play is a product of one survivor’s journey of healing. It will portray her traumatic experience, the aftermath, and ultimately how she reclaimed her life and found hope again.

The East Texas Crisis Center’s goal with this production is to take sexual assault awareness to the stage and promote education about this very prevalent issue.“Hope Unchained” is a dramatic theatrical production written by a local playwright, client of the East Texas Crisis Center, and survivor of sexual assault.

Everyone involved in this production will be volunteering their time, from the actors and actresses, to the technical and artistic crew, to the director and producer. “We have volunteers from a variety of organizations within the community coming together to make this a very memorable and special event.” An original musical composition and lyrics is also being written to underscore the production, courtesy of a local music professor. The production will be in the form of a dessert-theatre event and last approximately two hours, which will include the production itself, as well as an intermission and time for attendees to mingle and enjoy coffee and a variety of desserts both before the play and during intermission.

Improve Your Conversational Skills and Your Listening Skills

“Level 1: The Basics of Improvisational Comedy” class is now being offered at Liberty Hall. It starts Monday, April 14th at 7pm and continues every Monday through May 19th This six week course on the basics of improvisational comedy is designed for ages 17+ and is great for the working actor, the business professional, and people from all walks of life. Improv is a skill everyone uses on a daily basis. In this class you will improve your conversational skills and strengthen your listening skills, as well as build your self-confidence, learn to trust your instincts and get out of your comfort zone. It will be taught by Jamey Whitley, who has been performing improvisational comedy for over 5 years. He is a founding member of Tyler’s “Card 53” and Fourth Wall Comedy in Dallas.

The cost is $150 for the 6 week series. To sign up, go online at Liberty Hall at www.LibertyTyler.com or call (903)595-7274.

16 • EGuideMagazine.com

Energy Center, 719 W. Front St. Suite 20 in the basement, Tyler. Entrance on the north side of the building.

Tickets available at the Box Office: (903)740-5387 or apextheatre20.com

“God of Carnage” will be performed April 18th-26th. This play is about two pairs of parents, one of whose children has hurt the other at a public park, who meet to discuss the matter in a civilized manner. However, as the evening goes on, the parents become increasingly childish, resulting in the evening devolving into chaos.

The play was a success in its original language, French, and has been equally acclaimed in English-translated productions in both London and New York.

Tickets are $20. If space is available there will be student rush tickets available for $10 at 7:25pm, with a student ID. Production time is 7:30pm with doors opening at 6:45pm.

Cherokee Civic Theatre 157 West 5th Street Rusk, Texas 75785 (903)683–2131 www.cherokeetheatre.net All tickets are reserved seats with member prices of $9 adults, $6 students and general prices of $12 adults and $10 students. All at the door tickets are $15.

“The Dixie Swim Club” will be held May 9th, 10th, 11th, 17th and 18th. “The Dixie Swim Club” is a hilarious and touching comedy about the lasting friendships of five southern women whose friendships began many years ago on their college swim team. The ladies set aside one weekend every August to recharge their friendship and meddle in each other’s lives. The story spans 30 years and focuses on four weekends that the quintet spends together.

All ETSO performances will be at the UT Tyler Cowan Center.

Tickets available at the box office, located at 3900 University Blvd.

(903)566-7424 or online at www.uttyler.edu/cowan

As part of its ongoing series of events at Liberty Hall in downtown Tyler, the East Texas Symphony Orchestra Association presents “The 2014 Piano Festival” Friday, April 4th at 7pm. Francesco & Friends with special guests Holly Marsh and Claudia Carroll performing.

Acclaimed Italian pianist Francesco Attesti comes to Liberty Hall for this family oriented program of familiar music by composers such as Beethoven, Mozart, Chopin and much more. Joining Mr. Attesti for the evening are Tyler favorites soprano Holly Marsh and flutist Claudia Carroll. Saturday, April 5th at 7pm, “The Art of Attesti” will be performed. Enjoy Francesco Attesti in solo recital. The program will include music of Brahms, Liszt, and Chopin, and Mr. Attesti’s own arrangements of music by Bach and Rossini.

Pollard Theatre Company, an outreach ministry of Pollard United Methodist Church, 3030 Copeland Road, presents “Hello Dolly!” April 2nd-5th (7:30pm each night with a 2:30pm Saturday matinee), at the Founders Center on the Pollard campus.

Directed and choreographed by Sara England with Musical Direction by Arnold Sherman, “Hello Dolly!” is a delightful musical comedy. The show follows the adventures of Dolly Levi as a matchmaker in turn-of-the-century New York, and has been called an “irresistible story of the joy of living.” It sparkles with memorable songs such as “Before the Parade Passes By,” “It Only Takes a Moment,” and, of course, “Hello, Dolly!” If show tunes and fun choreography tickle your fancy, this is the show for you.

Tickets are $16 for adults and $10 for those 12 years and under Available at www.pollardumc.com/theater or (903)730-1056 or call Showtix toll free at (866)967-8167.

Henderson County Performing Arts Center

...to entertain, to educate, to change lives 400 Gibson Rd., Athens, Texas 75751 Tickets are available at the door, by calling (903)675-3908 or at www.hcpac.org.

“Picnic” will be on stage April 24th - May 3rd with 7:30pm nightly performances. This play is about a neighborhood preparing for a picnic. It is Labor Day, and everyone is getting ready.

Since shy Millie does not have a date, neighbor Mrs. Potts suggests that Hal accompany her, much to the chagrin of Flo. Hal agrees, but he is much more interested in Madge. There is an undeniable attraction between the two, as much as they try to fight it.

While getting ready for the picnic, the family and friends dance in Flo’s backyard to music playing nearby. Hal grows on each of the women, and they both vie for his attention. “Picnic” was Paul Newman’s Broadway debut.

AUDITIONS: “Daddy’s Dyin’ Who’s Got the Will” (production will be June 12th-20th) April 28th and 29th at 7:30pm “Once Upon A Mattress” (production will be August 7th - 16th) June 16th and 17th at 7:30pm 122 E. Main St. Henderson, Texas For information call (903)657-2968 or hendersoncivictheater.com

Located on Heritage Square in downtown Henderson, a National Register Historic District, in the original Opera House which was built in 1885.

“The Odd Couple” directed by Jimmy Fitzgerald will be presented May 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 9th, 10th, 11th at 7:30pm nightly and 2pm for Sunday matinee.

Compulsive neatnik Felix Unger is thrown out of his house by his divorce-bound wife. He wanders aimlessly through the streets of New York, toying with the idea of suicide, before gravitating to the apartment of his best friend, incorrigibly sloppy sportswriter Oscar Madison. Worried that Felix will try something desperate, Oscar, himself in the process of being divorced by his wife, invites Felix to move in with him. Within a few days, this mismatched pair is on the verge of mutual murder: Felix cannot abide Oscar’s slovenliness, while Oscar is driven insane by Felix’s obsession with cleanliness. A potentially passionate evening with Oscar’s neighbors, the “coo-coo” Pigeon sisters, is ruined when Felix, ruminating over his wife and children, reduces the two ladies to remorseful tears. Pushed to the brink, Oscar stalks around the apartment making as big a mess as possible. Comes the next week’s poker game, and the previously vengeful Oscar is worried that Felix might have attempted to do away with himself again. Instead, a surprisingly self-confident Felix shows up to collect his belongings and announces that he’s temporarily moving upstairs with the toothsome Pigeon sisters. There’s a laugh a second in this adaptation of Neil Simon’s hit Broadway play.

Friday, April 4th, 7pm at First Presbyterian Church, 230 W. Rusk St., Tyler. Free admission.

Spring concert by youth choir Voices of Faith. www.vofchoir.org.

Sunday, April 13th, 5pm at First Presbyterian Church, 230 W. Rusk St., Tyler. Free admission “Music of the African American and Southern Gospel Traditions” featuring high-energy yet reverent music familiar to many.

Sunday, April 27th, 4pm, at First Presbyterian Church, 230 W. Rusk St., Tyler. $15 adults, $5 students. “Sunday in Paris,” featuring guest organist Lorenz Maycher and the Tyler Civic Chorale, Masterworks concert of music from the late 19th century French Romantic era. The Main piece is Misse Solennelle by Louis Vierne, a short mass written for two organs and singers. Tickets are $15, $5 for students. This is the Chorale’s final concert of the 2013/2014 season. The next event will be the free-to-the-public annual patriotic concert on July 4th.

Saturday, May 3rd, 6pm at First Presbyterian Church, 230 W. Rusk St., Tyler. Free admission. Spring concert by the University of Texas Tyler Patriot Singers and the University Chorale. www2. uttyler.edu/music/news.htm.

Sunday, May 4th, 4pm, at First Presbyterian Church, 230 W. Rusk St., Tyler. Free admission. Spring concert by the Tyler Youth Orchestra. www.tyleryouthorchestra.org.

LINDALE COMMUNITY THEATRE www.lindalecommunitytheater.org Call (903)638-0402 for more information.

“Dearly Beloved” will be performed April 25th, 26th, 27th - May 2nd, 3rd, 4th with Friday and Saturday performances at 7:30pm and Sunday matinees at 2pm.

Doors open 45 minutes prior to show time. Tickets for adults are $15, students $12, 12 and under $8 and available at the door or online.

“Lord of the Flies” - April 8th-13th

Performances are: Tuesday, April 8th at 9:45am, Wednesday, April 9th at 9:45am, Thursday, April 10th at 7:30pm, Friday, April 11th at 7:30pm, Saturday, April 12th at 7:30pm and Sunday, April 13th at 2:30pm.

A plane crashes on a deserted island. The only survivors are a 400 Rose Park Drive in Tyler, next to the Tyler Rose Garden group of school boys. They live in a land of bright exotic birds and dark blue seas, but at night their dreams are inhabited by a terrifying Center beast. Before long this well behaved group has turned into a bloodFor more info call (903)592- thirsty and murderous tribe.

0561 This adaptation of William Golding’s compelling story about a or tylercivictheatre.com group of very ordinary small boys marooned on a coral island has become a modern classic. At first it seems as though it is all going to The Box Office is open Monday - Friday, 10am - 1pm be great fun, but the fun before long becomes furious and life on the island turns into a nightmare of panic and death. As ordinary standards and 2pm - 5pm of behavior collapse, the whole world the boys know collapses with them—the world of cricket and homework and adventure stories— and another world is revealed beneath, primitive and terrible.

“Lord of the Flies” remains as provocative today as when it was first published in 1954, igniting passionate debate with its startling, brutal portrait of human nature.

“Cheaper by the Dozen” - May 9th-18th

Friday-Saturday, 7:30pm, Sunday matinees 2:30pm Suppose you’re an attractive high school girl and you’re not only a member of a large and unique family but your father is, in fact, one of the great pioneers of industrial efficiency. Then suppose he decides, for no apparent reason, to apply his unorthodox methods to you and to the rest of your big family. The results are terribly embarrassing, funny and—it must be admitted—extremely effective.

To Anne, however, the chief effect seems to be that of making them seem ridiculous to everyone else at school—especially to the boys.

Dad pushes ahead with better organization for his large and delightful family. He puts up a chart for the young people to initial after completing each household task, uses a rung as an imaginary bathtub to demonstrate how to take a really efficient bath and appoints a utilities officer to levy fines on wasters of electricity. While the situations are often uproarious, there’s a serious reason. Dad has a heart condition which he’s keeping secret..

Anne, the oldest, rebels. Both Dad and she are miserable at the lack of understanding between them. Then in a deft and moving scene, Dad becomes aware of how much Anne has grown up.

AUDITIONS: “Hairspray - The Musical” - April 12th and 19th at 2pm

Upcoming Productions

“A Gap in Generations,” by Jerry Blunt, directed by Jacob L. Davis, will be performed Thursday-Sunday, April 24th-27nd at Jean Browne Theatre on the Tyler Jr. College campus. In “A Gap in Generations” students will get a chance to experience the art of Commedia dell’Arte. The Italian Renaissance styled theatre. The show will be performed in full Commedia dell’Arte costuming along with face masks. Full of mistaken identities, magic elixirs and young love, this production is described as a “broad, exuberant, comedy-farce about the differences and similarities between old and young.”

The spring theatre season is based on the bucket list of shows directors have wanted to direct.

Davis and Faulds-Howard’s wishes are coming true with this seasons presentations. Crawford says that each year the directors gather together and discuss what shows they want to do. “The show’s something that you have to be able to live with doing for the next six weeks of your life,” Crawford laughingly states.

Tickets are on sale at the box office.

Get your tickets now!

April 19 at 1 p.m.

“Ten Commandments” (1956) April 26 at 8 p.m.

East Texas Funniest Comic 2014 May 2 at 8 p.m.

The Bellamy Brothers May 10 at 3 p.m.

“Steel Magnolias” (1989) June 5 at 7 p.m.

“Some Like it Hot” (1959) June 7 at 8 p.m.

“Sound Spectacular: The Golden Era of American Popular Music” June 12 at 7 p.m.

“To Have and Have Not” (1944) Located at 3900 University Blvd. on the UT Tyler campus Tickets are available at the Box Office, at (903)566-7424 or online at uttyler.edu/cowan

“The Addams Family” - Friday, April 4th at 7:30pm

“The Addams Family” is a smash-hit musical comedy that brings the darkly delirious world of Gomez, Morticia, Uncle Fester, Grandma, Wednesday, Pugsley, and, of course, Lurch to spooky and spectacular life. This is “a visually satisfying, rib-tickling, lunatic musical that will entertain you to death!,” according to Toronto Post City. This magnificently macabre new musical comedy is created by “Jersey Boys” authors Marshall Brickman and Rick Elice, Drama Desk-winning composer/lyricist Andrew Lippa (“The Wild Party”), choreographer Sergio Trujillo (“Jersey Boys”), and Olivier Awardwinning costume and set designers Phelim McDermott and Julian Crouch (“Shockheaded Peter”) with direction by four-time Tony Award® winner Jerry Zaks.

Belushi Out, Brady In: “Whose Line Is It Anyway?” Star, Wayne Brady - Friday, May 2nd at 7:30pm

Due to a movie role, Jim Belushi has canceled the Jim Belushi and the Chicago Board of Comedy performance. For over a decade, Wayne Brady has been entertaining audiences with his acting, improv, singing and dancing on television, film and the stage. He began his career in Orlando, Fla., working for both the Disney World and Universal theme parks. He can currently be seen on CBS’s “Let’s Make a Deal” and “How I Met Your Mother.” He is also the star and executive producer of the CW’s “Whose Line Is It Anyway.” Wayne is the voice of Clover the Rabbit on Disney Jr.’s #1 rated animated series “Sofia the First.” A triple threat, the singing, dancing and acting comedy man will appear at the Cowan Center as part of his national “It’s My Line” tour.

Ticket prices are $27-$62 and can be purchased at the UT Tyler Cowan Center box office.

June 13

The East Texas Comedy Festival w/ Jimmy Pardo June 14

The East Texas Comedy Festival with

Frank Caeti and Susan Messing June 19 at 7 p.m.

“Rope” June 21 at 3 p.m.

“E.T. the Extraterrestrial” (1982) June 23-27, 9 a.m. - noon

“So You Think You Can Act?”

Children’s Theater Camp with APEX & Felicity Enas (M-F with Performance on Saturday 6/28) June 26 at 7 p.m.

“Citizen Kane” (1941)

Downtown Tyler 103 E. Erwin, Tyler

A department of the City of Tyler

EGuideMagazine.com • 17

Books

A Little Bit of Everything

By Gini Rainey

“Killing Jesus”

By Bill O’Reilly and Martin Dugard

Following the success of “Killing Kennedy” and ”Killing Lincoln,” both page-turning works of non-fiction that have changed the way we read history, O’Reilly and Dugard have taken on the historical events that led up to the murder of the most influential man in history: Jesus of Nazareth.

Bill O’Reilly, the anchor of “The O’Reilly Factor,” the highest-rated cable news show in the country, writer of a syndicated newspaper column, and author of several number-one bestselling books and Martin Dugard, New York Times bestselling author of several books of history, have partnered to co-author this book that recounts the seismic, political, and historical events that made Jesus’ death inevitable.

From the outset the authors make it clear that though they are Roman Catholics they are not writing a religious book. Rather, they are writing a historical account of a historical figure “and are interested primarily in telling the truth about important people, not converting anyone to a spiritual cause.”

They necessarily rely on the four gospels for their source material and often tell their story by directly quoting the Bible.

They begin, though, by setting Jesus firmly in his historical context and skillfully telling about the rise and fall of Julius Caesar and the subsequent ascension of Caesar Augustus. They introduce a cast of characters who each make an appearance in the pages of the Bible: King Herod who would hear of a potential challenger to his throne and order the slaughter of innocent children, Herod Antipas who would behead John the Baptist and later refuse to deal fairly with Jesus, and Pontius Pilate who would cave in to pressure and order the execution of an innocent man. Each of these men becomes a living and breathing character in the narrative.

Even though the authors clearly stated this is not a ‘religious’ book, rather an ‘historical’ work, you will not be offended by the way Christ and his followers are portrayed. As with any study of history one must rely upon the research and intellect of the writer. It seems to me the ‘homework’ was done. While drawing heavily on the first four books of the Bible’s New Testament, the historical details that are tied to each event provide a realistic view of the life and times of the man whose beliefs continue to influence millions of people two thousand years after his death.

Rating 5 of 5 Copyright 2013 – Henry Hold and Co. “What Do You Do All Day?” By Amy Scheibe

In Amy Scheibe’s first novel she explores the tears and joys of the stay-at-home mom. This book is one that just about any mother who is immersed in the world of small and precocious children and struggling to be the perfect parent will be able identify with.

This is a story that is centered around the life of Manhattan mom Jennifer, who’s struggling with trying to be the best mom on the block, her husband Thom, and their two children, Georgia and Max. 18 • EGuideMagazine.com

In what has been referred to as a Bridget Jones diary for the modern mother, Scheibe lays it all out there for those who have not had the honor of being a stay-at-home mom and feeling as though she must account for every minute of their day to justify their existence.

Jennifer’s character is fully developed as a mom who could spend the whole day looking at her children and marveling at their amazing gifts and talents one moment and the next moment wanting to ship them off to a foreign country in a crate labeled “beware of the monsters!”

This book, complete with an absent husband, an over-bearing mother-in-law, and sophisticated friends who spend a great deal of time at the country club and getting manicures, is a reality check into the lives of the stay-at-home moms who are constantly asked “do you work?”

This novel has all of the qualities that I love in a book where the heroine is funny, angry, pottymouthed and lovable all at the same time. Reading it is like spending time with an incredibly cool new mommy friend – like one of those playdates you dream of where you let the kids play with old cheerios, while you and the other mom fall in love with your similarities, watch the kids play and drink wine together.

Rating 4 of 5 Copyright 2006 – St. Martin’s Press “The Wild, Wild Cookbook – A Guide for Young Wild-Food Foragers” By Jean Craighead George; Illustrated by Walter Kessell

Now, just when the guys think there isn’t going to be anything interesting for them on the cookbook aisle, along comes this keeper. However, my husband just said, after leafing through the book, “there isn’t anything in here that sounds good.” If I hadn’t been deep in creative thought process at the time, I would have reminded him that he probably would never be caught dead foraging and if he were, this book would come in mighty handy.

Written by noted naturalist Jean George, this book is divided into seasonal foraging sections.

He has listed plants alphabetically in each season and they are identified by description and habitat, and with recipes for cooking them.

The beautifully detailed drawings of the plants by Walter Kessell make this a field guide everyone should carry in his pocket whenever the urge to go hiking and foraging strikes.

I’m telling you, the next time I come across some milkweed buds and pods, the first thing I’m going to do is gather up a boat load of them and make up a Milkweed Pod Pie. Also, in the fall, when all those acorns start to litter your yard and you just don’t know what to do with them, this book will tell you how to make acorn flour and then give you the recipes for Acorn Pancakes and Acorn Bread. Problem solved.

The last time I was in Minnesota, I couldn’t help but notice the promising stand of staghorn sumac bushes near the cabin. If only I were there now to harvest them and make Stewed Sumac. Now, that’s living. On a more serious note, however, there are recipes included for Gooseberry Pie, Sassafras Tea and Sunflower Bread that do sound pretty good and not quite so radical.

I realize that you might think this is just a really weird cookbook that I dragged into the book review process. Yes, in a way it is, but it’s also a great reference book that is full of a lot of information. I will say, though, that if you’ve ever been out in nature and wondered what the different plants are, this book will help you identify them. Also, the drawings, which are lovely to look at, help to make this little book a fun and interesting read.

Rating 3 of 5 Copyright 1982 – Thomas Y. Crowell Junior Books

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Tyler Public Library Events

Tyler Public Library is located at 201 S. College Ave., downtown Tyler. For more information (903)593-7323, www.tylerlibrary.com.

for contest rules and application. Free. Held in the Story Room.

Events for Teens

Teen Advisory Council (Saturday, April 5th, 1-2pm) A group for teens looking for a more active Events for Children role in library happenings for them and their peers.

Toddler Time (Every Wednesday at 10:30am) Open to ages 12 to 18. Free.

Story time for families followed by a short film.

Teen Movie Matinees (April 5th at 2pm) Popular Directed toward children up to age 3, but all ages feature length films will be shown on the library’s welcome. Free. Held in the Story Room. big screen for teens to enjoy. For movie titles and Read Aloud Crowd (Thursdays at 10:30am) Story information please contact the library. Open to ages time for families followed by a short film. Directed 12 and up. Free. toward children ages 3 through 6 years of age, but Multicultural Fair for Teens (Saturday, April 26th, all ages welcome. Free. Held in the Story Room.

1-4pm) Learn about the geography, religion, arts Starry Time Story Time (Every Thursday at 6pm) and culture, politics, economy, social structure Join us for stories, songs and a short film the whole of counties around the world from members of family can enjoy. Free. Held in the Story Room. our Teen Advisory Council. Free. Held in the Auditorium.

Family Story Time (Saturday, April 5th at 10:30am) Join us for stories, songs and a short film Events for Adults the whole family can enjoy. Free.

Using e-Resources with your Digital Device (April American Girl Party (Saturday, April 12th at 5th, 2pm) Learn how to use the library’s e-resources 10:30am - 12 noon) Girls ages 5-12 share stories, from OverDrive and OneClickDigital on your crafts, games and refreshments from different eras Kindle, Nook, iPad or Android device. Also, the of American history. Kit is the American Girl for use of Ebsco e-books on your computer will be April. Free. Held in the Taylor Auditorium. covered. Please contact the library for more info and a schedule. Free. Held in the Story Room.

The Search For Humpty Dumpty (TuesdaySaturday, April 1st-19th) Humpty is not on the Art Cards (Tuesday, April 1st, 10:30am) Learn the wall. Did he have a great fall? Or is he reading art of rubber-stamping, embellishing and carda really good book? Children up to age 6 and making from a pro. This is offered the first Tuesday their families are invited to the Library to find of each month. $10 fee, registration preferred. Held the Humpty Dumpty reading on a book shelf. To in the Story Room. participate, families pick up an entry form at the Information Desk, look for Humpty Dumpty, and ClubRead (Tuesday, April 29th, 10am) Join us for return the form to the information desk noting the in depth book discussions. March book selection: location of the elf and the book the elf was reading. “Flight Behavior” by Barbara Kingsolver. April book selection is “Sweet Tooth” by Ian McEwan. This is Families can enter once every day by returning a free. Held in the Taylor Auditorium. completed form to the Information Desk. Entry forms ask for name, library card number and Celebrate Diversity (Tuesday, April 15th, 5:30pm) contact information. Library cards are free of charge The Tyler Public Library and the Tyler Together and available at the check-out desk. On Monday, Race Relations Forum join together to learn about April 21st, one entry will be randomly selected to diverse cultures—ethnic, religious, and regional. win a book of nursery rhymes.

Each gathering will include a mixer with light Lego® Designs Family Contest (Monday-Thursday, refreshments, a main event and follow-up discusApril 14th-17th, 5:15-6:45pm) Families are invited sion. Program is April 15th - International Day. Free. Held in the Taylor Auditorium. to come create designs based on their favorite books using Lego® building blocks. The library Peeps Diorama Contest (April 13th-18th) Join us will provide all materials while families provide in celebrating National Library Week by creating creativity and imagination. Judging will take place a diorama of your book using Peeps. Entry forms available online or at the library information desk. on Monday, April 21st. Please contact the library

Book Events

Thursday-Saturday, April 10th-12th - The Smith County Medical Society Alliance will hold its biannual sale at the new Book Fair building at 2004 Broussard St., Tyler. The new building offers a more comfortable shopping experience for customers by providing spacious aisles, good lighting and a larger check out area. All shopping is indoors. They will have some extremely valuable and special books to offer this year. Also, some of the special value books will be placed in the sections at reduced prices. Proceeds from the sale of books fund health related scholarships at Tyler Junior College and The University of Texas at Tyler and alliance community health projects. Medical projects funded include health fairs, alcohol awareness programs, a special needs student Sensory Party at Discovery Science Place and its “Sisters” group that makes, for example, quilts for newborns, bibs for a local day care, kits for the Crisis Center, neck coolers for soldiers, and stocking for the special needs students. For additional info visit www.scmsalliance.com or call (903)561-1353. Directions to Book Fair: Turn on Capital Dr. across from Brookshire’s Wildlife Center, turn right onto DC Dr., then left onto Broussard Street.

Saturday, April 12th - Jay Horton’s “Life is Hard but God is Good, 12 Principles for Unlocking Your Potential” will host a book signing starting at 12 noon. Don’t go to the grave without discovering your potential. You are more than you think you are. This book signing will be at Barnes & Noble Bookseller Tyler Broadway Pavilion, 4916 S. Broadway, Tyler, (903)534-3996.

Weekly Storytime - Held every Friday at 5:30pm, join Cari for out of this world adventures. There will be amazing treats and activities for both parents and children. This will be at Barnes & Noble Bookseller Tyler Broadway Pavilion, 4916 S. Broadway, Tyler, (903)534-3996.

Saturday, April 5th - Poetry Slam - As part of the Downtown Tyler ArtWalk there will be a fun Poetry Slam, 4-8pm. All poets are invited. Sign up: volunteerspot.com/login/entry/2265823940108#/form.

Saturday, April 5th - Dr. De Wet’s “Bringing Sexy Back” will present a short seminar and book signing starting at 1pm. The goal of this book is to change the way people look at themselves, whether they’re obese or not, so they can see the beauty in everything. This will be at Barnes & Noble Bookseller Tyler Broadway Pavilion, 4916 S. Broadway, Tyler, (903)534-3996.

Sunday, April 6th - Texas Writer’s Network Monthly Meeting - Held the first Sunday of the month, Texas Writers Network is held 2-4pm at the Tyler Library Auditorium. No registration is required. The meeting is an open forum for published, unpublished and friendly “wannabes” to generally network and discuss the trials, tribulations and joys of writing. Tyler Public Library is located at 201 S. College Ave., downtown Tyler. For more information call (903)593-7323, www.tylerlibrary.com.

Monthly Children’s Storytimes - “The Pigeon Needs a Bath!” by Mo Williams will be presented Saturday, April 5th at 11am. The Pigeon needs a bath! Except, the pigeon’s not so sure about that. It’s going to take some serious convincing to get the pigeon to take the plunge. “It’s an Orange Aardvark!”

by Michael Hall will be read Thursday, April 24th at 11am. Boom! Rumble, rumble. Did you hear that?

The five carpenter ants who star in this book did. One ant is convinced there’s an aardvark outside their stump, ready to eat them up. Three ants aren’t so sure. One ant decides to drill a peephole and investigate. This stoytime will be at Barnes & Noble Bookseller, 4916 S. Broadway, Tyler, (903)534-3996.

Tours

The Largest Collections of Enemy Aircraft Recognition Models in The World Written and Photographed by Lynn Dark

How often do you hear, “There’s nothing to do in Tyler?” How often have you said it? I think we often forget about our local treasures, “because we live here.” One such gem can be found at the “old” airport. The Historic Aviation Memorial Museum (HAMM) is located at 150 Airport Drive, inside the old terminal.

HAMM attracts between 8,000 and 10,000 visitors a year, some coming from as far away as Europe. With 7,000 square feet of indoor exhibit space, and 12 airplanes on the tarmac, the museum can easily keep you occupied for hours.

I recently met with Carolyn Verver, president of HAMM’s board of directors, in order to learn about the museum and its history. HAMM was founded by a group of Tyler men formerly attached to the Confederate Air Force (now known as the Commemorative Air Force, or CAF), a group committed to preserving historic military aircraft. The Tyler chapter of the CAF was called the Lone Star Wing.

While performing at an airshow in 1984, the group’s PBY Catalina crashed, killing seven Tylerites and destroying the aircraft. The remaining members of the group stayed close and eventually decided that even though they no longer had a plane, they had a hangar and a great deal of memorabilia to put in it. The museum opened to the public in 1990, and moved to its current location inside the old terminal building in 2007.

The old hangar is now used for the restoration of aircraft and the storage of excess memorabilia. People have donated so many items to the museum that there is no longer enough space to display it all.

Currently, HAMM will only accept donations that are aviation related.

In the beginning, they received a great deal of non-aviation war memorabilia, particularly from World War II. HAMM exhibits document the history of aviation from its beginning to the space age. There are sections devoted to the beginning of flight, World War I, World War II, Korea, Vietnam, the Gulf War, women in aviation, civilian aviation, and the space age. Additionally, there are two flight simulators inside the museum.

One example of items you can see at HAMM is a Nazi flag captured by a Tyler native in battle during World War II. Upon close inspection, you will see three bullet holes and faint blood stains on

the flag.

One of HAMM’s founding members, Elmer Dixson, was the chief officer of a photo reconnaissance division during World War II. Included in his many contributions to the museum are the before and after photographs of the bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. The only other copies belong to the United States government.

HAMM has one of the largest collections of enemy aircraft recognition models in the world. Both pilots and civilians were trained with these models. Pilots needed to be able to recognize enemy aircraft in the heat of battle and civilians needed to alert authorities if these planes crossed our borders.

The military uniforms of several of the museum’s founders are exhibited in various sections of the museum, along with many other military and civilian uniforms. HAMM even has a Russian space suit.

The military aircraft on display just outside the museum are leased from the Navy, Air Force, and Marine Corps. They are all static, meaning that they are not in flying condition. However, the museum is still required to maintain them. These planes are rotated in and out periodically.

Upon entering and exiting the museum, you pass by a very wellstocked gift shop. You can find everything from scale and diecast models, model kits, and puzzles to magnets and dolls. There are t-shirts, sweatshirts, military ball caps, hat pins, books, environmentally friendly shopping bags, and many more items to choose from.

The museum contains a library which is open to anyone interested in aviation research. With its proximity to the new terminal, a

convenient meeting room can be rented for a small fee. The lobby also provides a convenient venue for larger events.

HAMM hosts a one week aviation camp for kids from 12 to 14 years old during the summer. This year’s camp is tentatively scheduled for July 22nd - July 26th. The cost is $100 and space is limited. Spots are reserved on a first come, first served basis. Education is HAMM’s primary goal, but don’t think that means it is just for kids.

Anyone interested in aviation and its role in military history should definitely check it out.

The cost of admission to HAMM is $5 for an adult, $4 for seniors 65 and over, $3 for teens and $2 for children 6-12. There is no admission fee for children under 6. Group rates are available for parties of 10 or more. Admission for active duty military personnel with ID is free.

Memberships are available at $40 for an individual, $75 for a family, and $400 for an individual lifetime membership. Benefits for membership include free admission to most events, discounts in the gift shop, and tax-deductible dues. Volunteer opportunities are available.

HAMM sponsored the air show at Pounds Field in 2011 and there are plans for another air show in 2015. The museum is supported through fundraisers, memberships, donations, and admission fees. The museum operates on a fall-winter and spring-summer schedule. Beginning April 1st, HAMM will be open Tuesday – Saturday from 10am to 5pm and Sunday from 1pm to 5pm.

For more information about HAMM, the aviation camp, or upcoming events, you can visit the aviation museum’s website at www.tylerhamm.org, or call (903)526-1945.

EGuideMagazine.com • 19

Family

maintained by the city but by Brookshire’s. The playground and picnic area are a part of Brookshire’s World of Wildlife Museum and Country Store.

It offers more than the safety of an enclosed playground. Inside there is a glimpse into the past; a life sized replica of a 1920’s grocery store. The store is stocked with a variety of goods commonly The Heartbeat of carried at that time. The Country Store is also furOur Community nished appropriately for the decade.

The wildlife exhibit showcases more than 450

By Kelly Griffith-Fields animals from various regions of the world. EmphaTyler boasts more than twenty-five parks sis is put on animals that inhabit both North Amerthroughout the city. Over 1000 acres offering play- ica and Africa. From polar bear and mink to lions grounds, walking trails, athletic fields, courts, pic- and zebras the museum depicts the animals in their nic perfect grounds and more. natural habitat. Visitors are able to get an up close Tyler Parks and Recreations director Stephanie look at them in their natural surroundings.

Rollings explained that good parks are important to Brookshire’s World of Wildlife Museum is add to the citizens’ quality of life; providing a place open free to the public Tuesday through Saturday for all ages to be outside and active.

9am-5pm.

“It’s one big free adventure,” Johnson said.

Bergfeld Park “Bergfeld Park is the heartbeat of our comBullard Kid’s Park munity,” Rollings said. “It hosts so many events South of Tyler, the city of Bullard not long ago throughout the year.” celebrated the completion of the Bullard Kid’s Park.

Bergfeld is centrally located off Broadway Kamri Hidalgo, mother of two boys, Caiden, between Fourth and Fifth Streets. The park is spa- 7, and Levi, 4, says she appreciates the parks safety cious with abundant shade making an ideal locaprecautions. She explained that the park is a good tion for events such as charity runs and craft shows. distance from the road with only one entrance and It also offers a playground, a dolphin fountain exit for the children to get to the playground. spray ground and tennis courts. A unique feature is “I also love the fact that they made an addiits amphitheater where, among other things, famitional area for the younger children,” Hidalgo said. lies can enjoy free Movies in the Park.

Significant features of the playground include musical stations and water mist sprayers built into Noble E. Young Park the equipment for children to cool down in the On Seaton Street, Noble E. Young Park has Texas heat. There’s a handicap swing as well as a something for all ages. The park is generously shaded by towering Pine trees. There’s a large play- tire swing which is Caiden and Levi’s favorite.

“It’s the first thing they run to,” Hidalgo said. ground, pavilion, basketball court, hiking and bike trails as well as a nine hole disc golf course. Though Whitehouse’s Splash Park with all that it has to offer Noble may best be Another Bullard mom of 3, Melissa Vining said known for its skate park, the only one in the city. the Bullard Kid’s Park is one of her two favorite, the Young area skater, Matt Barker, says the park other being Whitehouse’s Splash Park. “It’s only a has a lot to offer regarding the sport. There are short drive for such a fun place,” Vining said. grinding rails, ramps, banks, launching pads of Set on East Main Street between the fire departvarious heights and both a large and smaller skate ment and police station is Whitehouse City Park. bowl.

It’s open year round. Large Magnolia trees provide “The bowls, boxes and rails are my favorite,” shade over some of the picnic tables. There’s a playBarker said. ground, pavilions and stage.

Faulkner Park The biggest draw to the park though is the In South Tyler at Hwy. 69 and Cumberland Splash Park. It’s on the same property separated by Road there is Faulkner Park. Special to this park is a fence. The Splash Park opens in late April and a large pond ideal for fishing. Each fall it is stocked costs $2 per person to enter. with Trout.

Whitehouse Parks and Recreations director Faulkner also offers various trails including a Don Branam said the splash pad has been averaging nature trail, two mile walking trail and a six mile one hundred people a day. mountain bike trail forged in a loop.

“It’s been a big hit,” Branam said. “Parents are For athletes there are baseball fields and tenable to let their children enjoy the water without nis courts. The Faulkner Tennis Complex is open worrying about the depth.” seven days a week. It offers eight lighted tennis The splash park provides a shaded lounge area courts, a tennis pro shop, low cost programs for players of all ages and experiences as well as profes- and snack bar. With all the amenities between both parks Branam explained it’s easy to spend all day sional instruction. there.

Another unique attraction is Faulkner’s spray “It’s so nice to have a few kid-friendly places ground. Set up next to the traditional playground, where they can run, play and let their imaginations the water features provide a fun place to cool off. take over,” Vining said. “The Bullard Kid’s Park and The spray ground is open May through October Whitehouse Park give us two great options.” and is free to the public.

At www.tylerparksandrec.com there is a full Lindsey Park list of Tyler’s parks with descriptions. The site also Lindsey Park often lends itself for group sports. groups parks by locations, provides an events calA softball complex, soccer fields and basketball endar and virtual tours for many of the parks. courts are located on Spur 364 West. The park also “There are several hidden gems,” Rollings said. offers a playground, picnic area and pavilions. The “I would encourage everyone to log on to our webstand out features may be the disc golf course and site and take a look at our parks and trails guide.” mountain bike trail.

Built in public-private partnership with the Disc April Events at Area Parks Golf Club, the facility contains a thirty-six hole disc April 12th - Art in the Park, 10am-4pm, LeGrand Park at Goodman Museum golf course. The challenging course draws in professionals from all over but you don’t have to be a April 12th – Free Disc Golf Clinic, 10am-12pm, pro to play.

Lindsey Park. Call (903)531-1214 to register Recently over nine miles of mountain bike trails were opened at the park. The trails have been April 12th - Movies in the Park - “Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs 2”, 8pm, Bergfeld Park developed and maintained by volunteers with The Tyler Bicycle Club but are not only for biking. Citi- April 17th – 13th Annual Twilight Easter Egg Hunt zens can walk or run the trails as well.

6:15pm, Lindsey Park April 19th – Movies and Star Gazing, Whitehouse Brookshire’s World of Wildlife City Park Museum and Country Store Lindale resident, Michelle Johnson, makes April 26th - Movies in the Park - “Despicable Me the trip to Tyler to visit her three-year-old son 2”, 8pm, Bergfeld Park Gavin’s favorite park. On Old Jacksonville Hwy. a April 26th - 8th Annual Art in the Garden, 11amtrain car and fire truck sit as part of the enclosed 2pm, Tyler Rose Garden playground.

April 28th – Splash Park Opens, Whitehouse “They’re two of Gavin’s favorite things to Splash Park explore,” Johnson said. This park however is not 20 • EGuideMagazine.com

City Parks:

Bergfeld Park wins Lone Star Legacy Award from the Texas Recreation and Parks Society

Bergfeld Park was named a “Lone Star Legacy Park” for its special prominence in the local community and the state of Texas. These parks have endured the test of time and have become iconic to those who have visited, played and rested on their grounds. A designation as a “Lone Star Legacy” is one of the highest honors that can be bestowed on a park by the Texas Recreation and Parks Society (TRAPS).

Bergfeld Park received this designation at the Texas Recreation and Parks Society (TRAPS) Institute and Expo in Corpus Christi, Texas, on February 1th, 2014 and was accepted by the Tyler City Council.

Eight Texas Parks were honored with this designation. The purpose of the designation is to recognize what a park means to a particular community.

Bergfeld Park currently has both Local and National Historic Landmark designation symbolizing its rich history in our community.

The Tyler City Council also accepted a $75,000 donation from Grace Community and Green Acres Church on behalf of children from Gospel Village Mentoring for re-development of the playground and the purchase of new equipment in Bergfeld Park.

MHS Planning and Design of Tyler recently completed a Master Plan for improvements to Bergfeld Park which was adopted by the Council in November 2013. This plan was then used to design a new playground facility for the park.

Events

Saturday, April 5th - Tyler Run for Autism - Get ready for the 3rd annual Tyler Run for Autism benefiting the Treatment and Learning Center for Children with Autism in Tyler. There will be a 10K, 5K and 1M fun run/walk, plus lots of fun activities for families and children, including face painting, bounce houses, great food, and silent auction among others. Every child participating in the event gets a shirt and medal. Come support this great event and enjoy the beautiful April weather and Azalea trails in downtown Tyler. The DJ for this year’s event is KRASH and the MC is KLTV’s Chief Meteorologist Mark Scirto. The race begins at Bergfeld Park. Visit us at tylerrunforautism.org for more details.

Monday, April 7th - 9th Annual Don Pinkerton Memorial Charity Golf Tournament & Ladies’ Games Day - This Golf Tournament is open to anyone that wants to play and benefits The Salvation Army, Tyler. Golfers will swing their clubs and ladies will set up their Mah Jongg and Bridge tables to benefit The Salvation Army in Tyler. The 9th Annual Don R. Pinkerton Memorial Charity Golf Tournament & Ladies Games Day will be a wonderful day full of good times and good hearts as we remember Don Pinkerton’s legacy. It should be a lovely day as the participants and the public enjoy the beautiful greens at the Cascades Golf Club (4511 Briarwood Rd., Tyler).The schedule for the day is 11am for Registration/Practice,

12:30pm is the Helicopter Ball Drop, 1pm will be the Shotgun Start and 1:30pm will be the Ladies’ Games Day. This will take place at Cascades Golf Club, for more info or to register call (903)592-7166.

Saturday, May 31st - “Walk a Mile in Her Shoes - The International Men’s March to Stop Rape, Sexual Assault and Gender Violence” benefiting the East Texas Crisis Center will take place Saturday, May 31st during Fiddlers Festival. A Walk a Mile in Her Shoes Event is a playful opportunity for men in our community to raise awareness about the serious causes, effects and remediations to sexualized violence. There is an old saying: “You can’t really understand another person’s experience until you’ve walked a mile in their shoes.” Walk a Mile in Her Shoes asks men to literally walk one mile in women’s high heeled shoes. It’s not easy walking in these shoes, but its fun and it gets the community to talk about something that is really difficult to talk about: gender relations and sexual violence. It demonstrates that men are willing and able to be courageous partners with women in making the world a safer place. Registration deadline April 15th so man up and come walk for the women in your life. Let’s stop the violence against women in our community. Special shoes designed for men size will be provided. You can walk as an individual or have a team (teams limited to 3 to 6 men). Come by the East Texas Crisis Center or Athens Review and register or call (903)675-2137 for more info.

Art

this remodel, the church was divided; half the members wanted to keep the original stained glass windows and the other half wanted to install new The Glory ones. Legend has it that the two men heading the charge on of Stained Glass each side were good friends and

By A. C. Slaughter in the end a compromise was made. The sanctuary would When you walk into Marvin Methodreceive new windows but the ist Church in downtown Tyler you can’t church would keep a hallway help but be amazed at the awesomeness on the second floor behind surrounding you. The light from the walls, the baptistery containing the which are darned with stained glass winoriginal stained glass. And the dows, is unlike any other. As you stand in old windows made it into the the sanctuary you find yourself amazed hands and home of one of these at the grand glory each stained glass wingentlemen whose name will dow produces. Maybe it’s the luminosity not be mentioned. The original of each pane that transcends your immewindows were quite impressive diate surroundings, other worldly, spiriin that they were two paned tual in its mere essence or perhaps it is the allowing them to be raised scale and color that evokes the most pure of which allowed for a block of heart. Whatever you wish to call it, you are ice to sit in the window during amazed, taken aback and humbled before the lovely East Texas summers.

19th century Britain and the revival of the Catholic Church the glory that is, stained glass.

And the story is that Dr. Bailes, who was pastor of the church from brought about a resurgence of the art. Having fallen out of use, the The history of stained glass dates back one thousand years and 1929-1956, told his congregation that they were lucky to have the only while the definite details of whose was the first and which region pro- rebuilding of churches in Britain spurred a new interest in the glass.

The French Revolution of the late 18th century destroyed many public air conditioned church in town. duced the finest is not set in stone, what we do know is how miracuThe history of stained glass is thick much like the panels themlous it is to think that at a time before running water, before electricity buildings including churches and after the rebuilding of Britain, France selves and rich with life like the colors of the glass which just like us, followed suit and rebuilt many churches mimicking a majority of their and any modern convenience, some of the world’s grandest buildings original stained glass designs. Germany was next with its rebuilding of come from the earth. Easter is a special time for many churches and were being built and some of the world’s greatest art was produced here in Tyler, Texas we have plenty to choose from. Take time to reflect with nothing more than man’s hands and the earth, both what the good churches in the medieval style. That brings us into the late 19th century and give yourself a dose of history by visiting one of these significant Lord gave us. Glass making has been around since the 1st century BC. where we find stained glass has made its way to America and into the churches. Whether you like the old world style of stained glass adornThat’s a long, long time ago and since then new techniques have been gifted hands of artisan Louis Comfort Tiffany who is the founder of Tif- ing your service or you prefer a newer more modern approach to worfany Glass Incorporated and yes, the son introduced and perfected but the original ship, may your Easter be special for you and yours, ever reminding us of Charles Lewis Tiffany, founder of Tifmethods still remain today. Stained glass to live a life of gratitude. fany and Company. and/or painted glass, was originally made The next time you are in front of a stained glass window may you Stained glass has a brilliant history by adding metallic salts during the glass have a newfound respect and admiration for something so beautiful spanning decades, making its way back manufacturing. Painted glass which is also and that so many of us take for granted. And that, my friend, is the reaand forth across the globe and although referred to as stained glass is slightly difson for the season. not all of us own a Tiffany lamp, the ferent in that the colors are mixed and Happy Easter East Texas. beauty of stained glass is at each and painted on after the glass pieces have been everyone’ s fingertips, you just need to produced. Pure stained glass includes the know where to look. colored salts in the glass making process.

Every Weekend in April - Galloway Art Exhibition will continue In East Texas there are churches all Cobalt, manganese, nickel, and cadmium over that house some sort of colored glass on exhibit at the Old Anderson County Jail in Palestine. The jail is are just a few of the minerals that make owned by Jeremy Janz and Sonia Martinez, who live at the jail. Sheila but few challenge the grandness of the up the traditional green, blue, red, yelolder churches found right here, in down- Galloway choose to showcase at the jail because it has a old vintage low, purple and white colors found in feel and it was “something Jeremy and Sonia wanted to do for a local town Tyler. stained glass. Panels of stained glass are Christ Episcopal Church, located on artist.” Galloway’s artwork is a mixture of history and art. She states, “I held together by strips of lead which you want people to not just look at something interesting, I want people to Bois D’Arc, has a one of a kind colleccan see running through many pieces. learn something - to know one’s past is to know one’s future.” ‘Vintage tion of 16 painted glass panels made by The lead held the smaller pieces together Americana meets Industrial Revolution’ is the artwork theme of this the famous St. Louis House of Jacoby. which were fused into larger pieces evenThe sanctuary walls are adorned with the show, which is shown through vintage photos, altered art, a paper tually reaching heights of 20 feet or more. story of Jesus from Annunciation to Res- model of a 1800’s underwater submarine and shadow boxes. The The lead started out as utilitarian but over artwork is set up in two jail cells which adds to the ambiance for this urrection. Founded in 1866 the Christ the years has become part of the design.

Church began meeting in the old Federal show. Please call for more info at (903)723-5688. The jail is open for Bars of lead are also found running horiCourt Room but later completed work on showings Fridays 6pm-9pm and Saturdays 10am-6pm. Old Anderson zontally through the panels to further supCounty Jail is located on the courthouse square, 704 Ave. A in downthe new building, the current location, port the weight of the glass. (Some manutown Palestine. in 1918. As April is the month of Easter, facturers still use this traditional method what could be more beautiful than taking Daily through April 6th - Prestige Estates Azalea Trail Art Exhibit today although there are developments time to view these remarkable images cel- & Sale - Featured artist is Brittany Richard of Arlington, showing in the production of stained glass that ebrating the life of Jesus Christ. Designed her highly stylized pop art originals of Marilyn Monroe on canvas as allows for these bars to be removed.) Each

by German glass makers, the windows are well as original oils, watercolors, mixed media including the Thomas stained panel is braced by a frame usually made in the old traditional style with lead Kinkade-Goldleaf Gallery. This will be held at 6928 Paluxy Dr., Tyler, made of wood which is usually carved, ribbons running through the glass. When (903)561-6102, or www.PrestigeEstates.net. Admission is free. Open sometimes very ornate to accentuate the you are in front of the Last Supper, the colored glass.

9am-6pm Monday-Saturday and Sundays 1-4pm. large window spanning the back wall, you The Egyptians and Romans started can’t help but be amazed. It is a true and Saturday, April 5th - Downtown Tyler ArtWalk this fun event this making small stained glass ornaments and spring will feature art, music, jewelry, metal art and interactive projblessed work of art. vessels in the 1st century BC. Next we see ects, 4-8pm. Come enjoy pop-up art galleries, live music, dance, food Across the street is Marvin Methodchurches in Britain start to use it in the and drink, interactive art projects and more as downtown businesses ist. As mentioned earlier, their windows 7th century followed by the Middle East are mighty and luminous. The imagery on open their doors for patrons. Meet the artists, enjoy the atmosphere and Southwest Asia in the 8th century. A these panels is symbolic, rather than nar- and purchase some fantastic one-of-a-kind original art. For more info resurgence of stained glass appears in the (903)593-6905, www.downtowntylerarts.com. Admission is free. rative, ever reminding us of God’s pres10th-16th century BC. During this time ence. The Anchor is a symbol of hope period we see it used mostly in churches.

Sunday, April 6th - Artists Nation Photogs Unite will have a meet-up and steadfastness; Cross and Crown are Traditionally, panels told a story depictat 1pm at Bergfeld Park, 1510 S. College St., Tyler. This event is a time a reward for those who are faithful until ing scenes from the bible or other stofor all local photographers, makeup artists, and models to get together death; Fleur-de-lis is the Trinity; Wheat ries passed down through the generaand shoot, share tips, help each other, and generally have a blast. This and Sickle is a symbol of the harvest; tions. Stained glass in churches reached its a free event and anyone is welcome to attend. and the Lamp is the word of God showheight of popularity in the middles ages, Ongoing - Ninth Annual Photography Contest is presented by ing us where to go. As the story goes, a and is sometimes referred to as Medieval trunk with all the old papers and history the Tyler Parks and Recreation through April 6th. Come look at the Glass. This time period, otherwise known of the church was stolen way back in the entrants for this photo contest. These are photos of Tyler and will as the Renaissance, is when churches all early 1900s and since no copies had been feature family and friends in scenes such as enjoying a recreational over the world embraced this art and made there are no definite dates for when event (sports, games etc.), wildlife in a Tyler park, family time (shows used it liberally. Made popular during the action and not just a portrait), Historic Tyler, abstract Tyler, outdoor the stained glass was added, who made Renaissance is the circular window known events in Tyler, birds in Tyler and flora and fauna in Tyler. Ribbons and it or what was paid for it. The sanctuary as a Rose Window. The Chartres Cathewas built in the late 1800s and a remodel prizes have been awarded to the Best of Show and First, Second and dral in France is known to house the finest Third place in each category. Photos will be on exhibit at the Tyler Rose in 2001 added new stained glass across Rose Window ever made dating back to the bottom back of the church where the Museum Center, 420 Rose Park Blvd., Tyler. the 13th century.

Saturday, May 10th - Reception for The Architectural Aesthetic Because of the popularity of stained glass, manufacturing compa- original entrance doors once stood - and that, my friends, is about all Exhibit at Gallery Main Street - Join us to celebrate the grand nies popped up in different countries which made it even more accessi- we know.

Another fun, historic story comes from First Baptist Church which opening of Gallery Main Street’s ‘The Architectural Aesthetic’ exhibit. ble and affordable and in turn supported the popularity of the product even more so. Germany and France were two of the leading manufac- is located down the street a bit on Ferguson. Built in 1913, the church The event will feature music, refreshments and an opportunity to went through an extensive remodel in the early 70’s. Apparently, during meet the artists. It’s free and open to the public, so make plans now to turers of stained glass during this time.

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Events

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attend. Gallery Main Street is located at 110 W. Erwin St., downtown Tyler, (903)593-6905, www.heartoftyler.com/downtowntylerarts.

Facebook Artist Group - Did you know that ArtistsNation has created a great group of Artists on Facebook? Go to Facebook at www.facebook.com/groups/easttexasartists/ and “Join.” This is a cool resource for artists to showcase their work, post events, shows, chat with each other and more. It is open to anyone and of course its free. ArtistsNation is a community created “For Artists By Artists.” They are composed of creative individuals, from all walks of life, that share the same objective - to see successful and unified “Art Scenes” develop throughout our local communities. Their mission is to provide local artists with the tools, resources, and exposure needed to be successful; while building and strengthening the local “Art Scenes” and our communities. They welcome all “Art Scenes” including Visual Arts, Music, Fashion Hair and Make Up, Film and Photography, Performing Arts, Actors and Models, and Artisan Creations. It is free for anyone to join, go to www.artistsnation.org.

Saturday, April 12th - Art in the Park at the Goodman - This will be the fifth annual fine art event held on the grounds of the historic Goodman-LeGrand Museum, 10am-4pm, set back on nine beautiful acres known as the LeGrand Park & Gardens in downtown Tyler. This event is sponsored by the Tyler Parks & Recreation Department. It is open to the public, and admission is free. Artists are invited to showcase and sell their art work, and to demonstrate in different art mediums, such as oil on canvas, watercolors, charcoal drawings, sculpture and more. There will be live entertainment and concessions available, as well as tours of the historic 1859 Goodman-LeGrand House & Museum. The Art in the Park event is set in some of the most scenic and historic grounds in Tyler at the Goodman-LeGrand Museum at 624 North Broadway Avenue in downtown Tyler. This is free to attend and families are welcome. For more info call (903)531-1286.

TJC Art Professors Chris Stewart and Derrick White are presenting the “Paints/Prints” exhibition through April 11th. Gallery hours are 9am-7pm and will feature prints by Christopher Stewart and paintings by Derrick White. This will be on exhibit at Tyler Jr. College, Wise Auditorium Art Gallery, 1400 E. Fifth St., Tyler. It is free to view. For more info call (903)510-2233.

“Scott M. Liberman, M.D.: At the Vantage Point” will be on exhibit through July 13th - This exhibit represents the first-ever solo museum exhibition of Lieberman’s photography. This exhibition brings together more than 90 images representing Lieberman’s body of work as a photojournalist with the Associated Press and numerous publications, encompassing a broad spectrum of subject matter including celebrity portraits, sporting events, nature tableaus and aerial photography. This exhibition, organized by the TMA and guest curated by photographer Robert Langham, displays Lieberman’s ability to combine the fundamentals of photography with his acute sense of being “in the right place at the right time” to create a memorable image. Admission is adults $5, seniors and students $3, and children (12 and under) are free.

Tyler Museum of Art is located at 1300 S. Mahon Ave., Tyler, (903)595-1001, www.tylermuseum.org.

“Mediterranea: American Art from the Graham D. Williford Collection” will be on exhibit April 13thJune 29th at the Tyler Museum of Art. This exhibition explores the major cultures and monuments of the Mediterranean region through the art works of American artists of the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

American tourism of Europe before the Civil War usually followed that of the Grand Tour, which included all the important cultural centers of France, Italy and Germany, but in the late 19th century, American artists showed increasing interest in points abroad, including Spain, the Holy Land, Egypt and much of northern Africa. American artists became interested in the aspects of nature and culture that they believed to define the Mediterranean: its distinctive flora, the legacy of the Greco-Roman past and the influence of Christianity and Islam. The results rarely depicted a homogenous image of the Mediterranean, but often focused on the visual signs of cross-sea warfare, trade and religious influence. The reasons for this expanded awareness are numerous. Popular travel writers such as George William Curtis, Bayard Taylor and Mark Twain attracted American attention to North Africa and the Middle East. Some American artists were encouraged to visit Spain, the Middle East and Africa by their European teachers. Wealthy collectors also drew artists to popular vacation spots such as Venice and the Nile River. Finally, religious faith prompted some Americans to visit the Holy Land and other sites important to their beliefs. While the respective reasons for Mediterranean travel differed among American artists, the visual records of their travels demonstrate a growing awareness of a palpable unity in the region. Mediterranea provides contemporary viewers with an exploration of the ways American artists understood, interpreted and portrayed Mediterranean culture in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Tyler Museum of Art is located at 1300 S. Mahon Ave., Tyler, (903)595-1001, www.tylermuseum.org.

Thursday, April 10th - “La Table des Artistes: Oiseaux (Birds)” - This year’s spring fundraiser, “La Table des Artistes: Oiseaux (Birds),” promises to be an evening to remember. RSVP tickets are a must at the evening benefiting the Tyler Museum of Art. You can expect good company and an enjoyable evening, haute cuisine with synchronized service and selected wines for each of the four courses, an auction of six unique items, great live music and valet parking. “La Table des Artistes” will take place at the Cedars of Lebanon on Thursday, April 10th. Tickets are $350 for Members and $375 for non-members. They can be purchased by calling (903)595-1001. For sponsorship information, please contact (903)595-1001 ext. 208 today. Tyler Museum of Art is located at 1300 S. Mahon Ave., Tyler, (903)595-1001, www.tylermuseum.org.

Saturday, April 26th - “Stroll through the Arts,” presented by ArtistsNation and “EGuide Magazine,” will take place 1-9pm, downtown Tyler. Come out and enjoy local music, art and artisan creations during this free event. The popularity of the Sidewalk Art Strolls, Art Walks and Art Markets have made these events a highly desirable venue for art, artisan vendors, merchants and performers. Our last Art Market was a huge success, bringing in large amounts of sales for all many different types of vendors. Booth spaces are still available, to reserve your booth go to artistsnation.org/artists-nation-presents-art-stroll. ArtistsNation would also like to thank “EGuide Magazine” for sponsoring this event and for their generous scholarship giveaways. “EGuide Magazine” will be awarding scholarships to TJC and UTT students that have participated in the “EGuide Magazine” Cover Contest. ArtistsNation will display all entries at the Art Stroll and winners will be announced at the event.

Seniors’ Day - Join Tyler Museum of Art for Seniors’ Day as they say thank you to all of our visitors ages 65 and up. The third Monday of every month seniors are invited to enjoy free, guided tours of the current exhibitions. Tyler Museum of Art is located at 1300 S. Mahon Ave., Tyler, (903)595-1001, www.tylermuseum.org.

Family Day - Drop by the Tyler Museum of Art on the second Saturday of every month, and enjoy a funfilled event, perfect for the entire family. Family Days are held in the classroom, and children are invited to stop in from 2-4 and participate in free art activities. Kids will also like the tasty refreshments provided during the event. Family Day activities enhance the current TMA exhibitions by reflecting similar themes, artistic styles, techniques, and other artistic aspects. Tyler Museum of Art is located at 1300 S. Mahon Ave., Tyler, (903)595-1001, www.tylermuseum.org.

“Constancy & Contentment: MFA Thesis Exhibition Miles Mayfield” will be on exhibit. The Meadows Gallery is located within the R. Don Cowan Fine and Performing Arts Center on the campus of The University of Texas at Tyler and features rotating exhibitions throughout the year. The Meadows Gallery exhibition schedule includes nationally known guest artist exhibitions, our Annual International Exhibition (in its 29th year), faculty curated exhibitions, MFA thesis exhibitions, and a student juried exhibition each summer. A MFA Thesis Exhibition is the culminating event of three years of exacting studio art work.

Meadows is located at 3900 University Blvd., Tyler, (903)566-7250, www.uttyler.edu/meadowsgallery.

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