Eguide Magazine August 2014 edition

Athena Greek Restaurant: A Rich Sampling of Family & Traditions

Life With Pets:

Every Pet Lover’s Dream Come True

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August 1, 2014 • Issue 8, Volume 2

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Johnny & The Nightcrawlers: Cherokee Trace Safari: A True to Form Old Fashioned Blues Band

A Park Where Animals Roam Free

2 • EGuideMagazine.com

The Entertainment Magazine for East Texas August 1, 2014 • Issue 8, Volume 2

Contents 4 Dining

» “Athena Greek Restaurant: A Rich Sampling of Heritage, Traditions, Culture and Family” by Barbara King

6-7 Movies: by Dustin Chase, Film Critic

» Reviews for “Get on Up,” “Guardian of the Galaxies,” “Lucy,” “Hercules” and “And So It Goes” by Dustin Chase » Tyler Library offering Free Summer Films for All Ages » Liberty Hall Has Your Favorite Summer Movies

8-12 Music

» “The Bigsbys: On the Road to Becoming Beast of Musicians”

by Stephen Boothe » “Senor Gringo: We Just Started Falling in Love with This Genre...This Latin Jazz” by Chloe Hodge » “Johnny & The Nightcrawlers: A True to Form Old Fashioned Blues Band” by Amanda Main » The Complete Music Gig Guide for Live Music

13 Festivals

» “Tyler Rose City Comic Con: A Gathering of People Who Love Fun A Little More Than Others” by Lynn Dark

14-16 Things to Do

» “Cherokee Trace Drive Thru Safari: A Fun Open Range Park Where Animals Roam and Browse at Will” by Barbara King » “Life with Pets: Every Pet Lovers Dream” by Barbara King » Hundreds of Events and Things to Do Around Town

17 Family

» “Tyler Library: A Peaceful Place We Call Home”

by Kelly Griffith-Fields

18-19 Art

» “Inside the Artist’s Studio: Arbor Castle Birdhouses”

by A. C. Slaughter » The Complete Museum and Gallery Art Guide plus Competitions, Festivals, Classes and Workshops

20-21 Theatre

» “Tyler Civic Theatre: A Beginning of a New Chapter in Entertaining, Enriching and Educating Through Theatre”

by Barbara King » The Complete Theatre Show Guide

22 Books

Staff Publisher

Tena Jerger

Sales Manager Louie Jerger Copy Editors

Dana Khan, Gini Rainey Editorial

Stephen Boothe, Dustin Chase, Lynn Dark, Kelly GriffithFields, Chloe Hodge, Barbara King, Amanda Main, Gini Rainey, A. C. Slaughter

» “A Few Book Reviews for Those Hot Summer Nights”

by Gini Rainey » Spoken Word Event, East Texas Writer’s Guild Meeting, B.U.N.S. Book Group and more

“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 360 locations in Tyler, Whitehouse, Bullard, Flint, Gresham, Edom, Ben Wheeler, Lindale, Jacksonville and Rusk.

We will list at no charge most events open to the public. All necessary information should be included such as date, time, ticket cost, description of event, phone number for the public, website address, photos - the more the better. Submit your event at EGuideMagazine.com.

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Dining Athena Greek Restaurant:

A Rich Sampling of Heritage, Traditions, Culture and Family Written and Photographed By Barbara King Are your taste buds weary of the same old tired selection of fast foods or chain restaurant standbys? Are you ready for a culinary adventure that may be outside your regular eating comfort zone? Athena Restaurant (named for the Greek goddess of wisdom) will serve you a rich sampling of the heritage and traditions of Greek cuisine and culture with a definite sense of family thrown into the mix.

The menu is a giveaway to the essence of the restaurant, stating “when you are here, you are family” and it’s clear from the first warm greeting through the entire dining experience that you are part of a true family collaboration.

The owners of the restaurant are sisters Vicky Sklavenitis and Effie Siamos, originally from the island of Lefkas, one of a group of seven islands separated from the mainland of Greece by a narrow channel.

Together with their husbands, and Vicky’s son and daughter-in law, Athena’s prepares traditional recipes that have been passed down from generation to generation.

The sisters emigrated to the United States as teenagers, and have been part of the family restaurant business since the 1970’s. They are a passionate team; cooking in the kitchen, greeting and seating guests, and completing each other’s thoughts about the restaurant. “We are the only Greek restaurant in East Texas,” explains Mrs. Siamos “and we have many regular guests who travel from Longview, Athens and Kilgore. We have second and third generation Greeks who want to relive memories with the food their grandmothers used to cook.”

Colorful scenes of Greece grace the walls, while traditional Greek music and the intense smells of grilling make it a unique cultural experience for diners. Some patrons drop by to re-live travels to Greece, reminiscing with the family who always takes time to stop by the tables to share stories.

Of course you’ll find traditional Greek offerings on the menu, like the authentic gyro, a blend of rotisserie beef and lamb, served with their special tzatzki sauce and always warm pita bread.

If you venture back to the kitchen, you’ll meet Mike Arvanitis, the grill master, keeping a watchful eye on the rotating meat ready to be sliced. Moussaka is another favorite, with layers of potatoes, eggplant and ground beef, topped with a béchamel sauce. All the ingredients used are fresh and food is made to order, and it’s evident when you see the spanakopita, stuffed with spinach, feta cheese, green onions and topped with Greek spices.

If you are adventurous and willing to give your palette a workout, there’s lamb shish kabob or pork tenderloin souvlaki.

The hands-on partners are very particular about their food and service and arrive in the early morning hours to get items prepped, along with preparing a fresh soup daily, including avgolemono, a traditional Greek favorite from a delicious blend of fresh chicken, rice, lemon and egg. Fasolada soup is a crowd pleaser, made with northern beans, fresh celery, carrots, onions, broth and Greek seasonings.

You’ll see some guests order a variety of appetizers to whet their taste on Greek delicacies, munching on hummus served with pita bread, grilled feta or dolmas, grape leaves stuffed with seasoned rice. Traditional Greek salads, consisting of lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, green peppers, pepperoncini, kalamata olives and feta cheese are all prepared with the freshest ingredients.

If you’re a bit timid and fancy something closer to home, Athena also offers more standard fare, like hot subs, hamburgers and lasagna.

“Sometimes families come in and most order from our Greek specialties” explains Mrs. Sklavenitis. “When the food arrives, the ones who hesitated and ordered something familiar usually want to try everything because it looks and smells so good.” There really is something for everyone, as Athena classifies itself as both a Greek and American family restaurant.

Angela Bradley and Joseph Hughes chose Athena for a dinner date and before the meal was over, were already planning their return to try things they missed on the menu. They noticed the restaurant a few times driving by, and since Joseph had been exposed to Greek culture and food by a high school teacher, couldn’t wait to try it.

Feasting on the Athena’s trio sampler plate, they were already eyeing 4 • EGuideMagazine.com

the sweet desserts.

They immediately noticed the “super welcoming” family atmosphere and loved the diversified menu. “Athena isn’t like some of the impersonal chains,” Angela explained. The prices are very reasonable and the food is unique.”

The sisters like to dream big and very soon the restaurant will serve patrons beer and wine. Some renovations are also being completed to a spacious party room in the back to hold larger groups.

Live music is next on their list but they admit it might be challenging to find Greek musicians in the East Texas area.

Clarence and Margaret Beatty from Pine Springs were welcomed by name on their second visit, a fact that made a definite impression.

Enjoying a Greek salad, Mr. Beatty commented that the customer service was outstanding and the owners really cared to take the time to visit and listen to their comments.

To top it all off, save some room for the home made desserts featuring baklava, made with layers of phyllo pastry filled with chopped nuts and honey, tiramisu or galaktoboureko Greek custard. I left the restaurant with warm hugs good-bye and a delicious sample of baklava to savor.

Athena also takes care of folks in a hurry, offering take-out and family size servings for four, which is perfect for those busy weeknights. You check out the menu at athenagreekrestaurant.com or on their Facebook page at www.Facebook.com/athenagreekrestaurant.

Bring your family and join their family at Athena, open Monday through Thursday, 11am-9pm, Friday and Saturdays 11am-9:30pm and Sundays 11am-9pm.

Athena is located at 1593 WSW Loop 323 beside La Quinta Hotel. For larger parties, call for reservations at (903)561-8065.

Walk-ins are always welcome.

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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”

“Step Up” films. So often musicals forget they are feature films and spend much of the film singing the running time away. Many of the hits are played in their entirety, as if Taylor couldn’t pick just a few.

Never more so than the performance of Soul Power, where it seems to last forever. Knowing how to edit a musical biopic is key with so much material about a legend needing to be squeezed into a two hour period. The best scene in the entire film occurs following the death of Martin L. King Jr., when Brown stops his live show to demand members of the audience get off the stage. It’s a scene that showcases Brown’s understanding of his own power and influence during that time, a theme that should have found its way into more scenes.

Final Thought – The film may have soul, but it certainly lacks structural rhythm.

“Guardians of the Galaxy”

Starring Chris Pratt, Zoe Saldana, Vin Diesel, Bradley Cooper, Lee Pace Grade C​I will probably be the only person who didn’t enjoy Marvel’s latest comic book adaptation “Guardians of the Galaxy.” The Marvel universe continues to expand in the far reaches of space with “Guardians,” which was eluded to in a post-credits scene from “Thor: The Dark World” where we see Benicio del Toro as “The Collector” (stay after the credits this time for another hint at what’s to come). I don’t have whatever 12-year-old boy still inhabits most adults’ sense of humor, and light fare is certainly not how I like my comic book stories. It didn’t get one laugh from me, but far worse is the fact that the script never allowed me to care about whether any of the characters lived or died; of course, this is the Marvel world and no one can really die. ​Peter Quill (Pratt) was abducted into space as a child and has made the galaxy his wrecking room. Now he is unwillingly part of a misfit group that must keep a dangerous and powerful weapon out of the wrong hands. His partners in saving the galaxy include a genetically manufactured but highly skilled raccoon named Rocket (Cooper) and his protector, a giant transformative tree named Groot (Diesel). The fourth in Starring Chadwick Boseman, Nelsan Ellis, Dan their company is Aykroyd, Viola Davis, Octavia Spencer a green humanGrade C oid-looking alien The musical genre isn’t faring so well this year. Tate Taylor, direc- named Gamora tor of “The Help,” gathers many of his previous co-stars to recreate (Saldana), who has the life and times of James Brown. Unlike “Jersey Boys,” Taylor does until now been actually cast real actors here. Unfortunately, he uses that same actor- under the prospeaking-directly to the audience technique that constantly reminds tection of Ronan the audience they are watching a film, thus disallowing the viewer (Pace) the conto get absorbed in the material. For all the famous faces in the film, queror, who wants including Oscar winner Spencer, it’s Boseman, who played Jackie the weapon to Robinson in “42” last year, that delivers the best performance. Similar enslave everyone. to “Jersey Boys,” “Get on Up” isn’t going to create any new fans of the “Guardians of material. Unlike “Ray” or “Walk the Line,” this film doesn’t break any the Galaxy” is Marnew ground within the genre. vel’s version of a ​Growing up under dire and trying circumstances, James Brown superhero sitcom.

(Boseman) went from a windowless shack in the woods of Georgia, As special effects abandoned by his mother, to the famous stages of the world, deliver- oversaturate every corner of the screen, there is very little organic ing soul music in a way people had never heard it. Music was every- material for the actors to interact with, very unlike “Lord of the Rings” where Brown looked: on the kitchen table as a child, in the prison as or “Planet of the Apes” where everything blends so seamlessly; it pura teenager, local churches; it was inescapable for him. Marital prob- posefully stands out here. Even in the few serious moments of the film, 80’s pop music dilutes the seriousness of the situation or Quill lems, tax issues, and his need to control everyone around him led breaks into dance. The music and all its irony does have significance Brown to a dark place that music helped him escape. in the script’s backstory, but it’s the lack of seriousness it causes in “The Help” was a crowd pleaser, loved nearly universally for its nearly all the otherwise intense moments. cheeky script, award winning performances and the fact that it’s a ​It’s true that I am not a fan of most comic book films; I prefer film much like it’s “Steel Magnolias” / “Fried Green Tomato’s” counthem dark, serious and tragic (“The Dark Knight,” “X-Men”). This terparts that hold up on repeat and generational viewings. Taylor film (funded by Disney mind you) has an adolescent male in mind might have been the wrong choice for this project, but the larger with the jokes and the entertainment.“Guardians of the Galaxy” nearly problem here is in the editing of the film that pushes and pulls the put me to sleep with Pratt bragging on how much he loved working audience through Brown’s career in a less than clever manner. It on this film and his excitement for the sequels, you already know his jumps around assumingly using flashbacks from the past to explain conditions and feelings Brown experiences in present day. “Ray” was character is never in serious peril. Pace (“The Hobbit”) does make for a great villain, although his fascinating face is hidden under makeup about overcoming addiction in many forms, “Walk the Line” was a and shadow. This film is just the beginning of an endless series to fill love story, but “Get on Up” is just about James Brown being James our cinemas with more mindless entertainment, which will no doubt Brown. appeal to the masses and the teenage boy in everyone. ​”Walk the Line” was an inspired title taken from a Johnny Cash Final Thought – Marvels comic book movie sitcom. song while “Get on Up” sounds like the fifth installment of those

“Get On Up”

Jerger Electric

“Lucy”

Starring: Scarlett Johansson and Morgan Freeman Grade F It shouldn’t be surprising that “Lucy” easily ranks as one of the worst films of 2014, due to one simple credit: Luc Besson. Who is he, you might ask? Besson is the ex-husband of Mila Jovovich; he wrote the scripts and directed her in cult hit “The Fifth Element” and major flop “The Messenger” in the late 90’s. However, it’s the more recent material that has corroded Besson’s image and career, which includes all the “Transporter” films, that awful “From Paris with Love” Travolta film, and let us not forget last year’s mob disappointment, “The Family,” starring Michelle Pfeiffer and Robert DeNiro. If that weren’t enough, “Lucy” now joins another one of my worst films of the year, “3 Days to Kill,” which was, you guessed it, written by Luc Besson.

Through a twist of fate, American tourist Lucy (Johansson) is subjected to a drug called CPH4, which is the synthetic version of the material that pregnant women make in small doses during their pregnancy. Humans only use 10% of their brain and this drug, manufactured by the Chinese, will allow its victim to access more for a limited period of time before it destroys its host. Lucy, realizing what is happening to her, and becoming aware of all the mysteries of the universe and the origin of life, contacts Prof. Norman (Freeman) whose research into the human brain and its evolution allows him to be the only one who can understand what is happening to her.

At first, “Lucy” appears structurally similar to “Salt,” starring Angelina Jolie, who was originally tapped for Lucy but dropped out after reading the script. This film quickly reveals itself as more of a science fiction film than a female action vehicle. Thankfully, it runs at only 90 minutes. “Lucy” becomes a film about Besson’s misunderstanding of the brain shoved into a mainstream movie with no real purpose. Lucy doesn’t have a goal or a purpose; she isn’t really out for revenge because she doesn’t have long to live. As her brainpower nears the 100% level (which is cleverly splashed on the screen during moments of tension), she will die. Lucy is basically a mutant; Besson just rips off the entire concept of “The X-Men” and throws it into this poorly developed character with blond hair and big boobs. Johnasson is a good actress, but she wasn’t cast for her talent here.

The moment Lucy begins using the same powers as Jean Grey, Besson’s lack of creativity for the character is obvious. For instance, when Lucy starts vomiting rainbow fire, I realized that he has just created a mindless film with no social commentary and has no understanding of superheroes. One of the most annoying elements of the film occurs when she is powerful enough to knock over a group of policemen by waving her hand in a millisecond; Yet, ten minutes later, with more brainpower, she throws the Chinese villains up in the air, fights them, wasting her precious time, and more importantly, ours. Silly isn’t a strong enough word for the stupidity that is displayed here. Johansson has played a superhero twice this year and one alien; I think she needs to do something different.

Final Thought – Easily the most stupid film of 2014.

“Hercules”

Starring Dwayne Johnson, Ian McShane, John Hurt, Rufus Sewell, Joseph Fiennes Grade C​This isn’t the first time Hollywood has delivered two films of the same type in the same year: “Armageddon” and “Deep Impact,” “Elizabeth” and “Shakespeare in Love.” 2014 marks the first time two mainstream films have Hercules in the title. Back in January Kellan Lutz was the half god in “The Legend of Hercules,” which made almost everyone’s worst of the year list, including mine. Despite his “Twilight” fans, Lutz didn’t have the star power Johnson aka The Rock has, and while this is certainly a version of Hercules we haven’t seen before, it could have been called something entirely different and still had the same effect. ​Hercules (Johnson) has fled Athens along with his posse, including longtime supporters Amphiaraus (McShane), who can predict the future. They are summoned by Lord Cotys (Hurt) as mercenaries

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to help defeat Rhesus (Tobias Santelmann), who is burning villages in the kingdom Thrace. Men all over the world have heard the stories of the great Hercules, who defeated serpents, beasts and even a giant lion that he still wears as a hood. Hercules makes no claim to be the son of Zeus as legend tells, but he doesn’t stop his nephew from embellishing the stories to help defeat their enemies.

Now Hercules and his group must train the Thrace townspeople and prepare for battle. ​With director Brett Ratner (“Rush Hour,” “X-Men: The Last Stand”) at the helm, you must prepare yourself for a certain amount of stupidity. Combined with Johnson, who is always cast for his brawn and never his brains, this is a film about violence, butt kicking and moments that encourage the audience to cheer for things that were never earned. The one element that makes it a better film than the Lutz version is that it doesn’t take itself seriously. Johnson all but winks to the camera anytime his godly heritage is debated. The film is never without comedic moments to lighten the dark mood and, thankfully, the predictable battle sequences don’t last very long. ​This isn’t your fairytale Hercules; this is more like a “Gladiator” Hercules who is sporting a beard.

It isn’t about legends or gods, but a man gifted with strength and a moral compass. While he might look like a grown up version of Bam Bam from the “Flintstones,” Johnson and his leather mini skirt drive through the plot at an accelerated speed. The large amounts of dialogue and two fight sequences don’t really make a whole movie, but this is about entertainment, 3D special effects and forgetting what you thought you knew about Hercules at the door.

Final Thought – With the bar set extremely low

by The Legend of Hercules, this version manages to portray the hero is an alternative light.

Tyler Public Library Offering Free Movies This Summer The Tyler Library has fun for the entire family with their Free Movie programs. Below is the schedule of shows.

August

August 11th

“Swiss Family Robinson” at 10:30am

“The Lorax” at 1:30pm

“Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone” at 3:30pm August 12th “Honey I Shrunk The Kids” at 10:30am

“WALL-E” at 1:30pm

“Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets” at 3:30pm August 13th “Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory” at 10:30am

“Flubber” at 1:30pm

“Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban” at 3:30pm August 14th “Happy Feet” at 10:30am

“Meet The Robinsons” at 1:30pm

“Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire” at 3:30pm August 15th “Judy Moody and Not The Bummer Summer” at 10:30am

“Space Buddies” at 1:30pm

“Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix” at 3:30pm August 16th “Harry Potter and the Half Blood Starring Michael Douglas, Diane Keaton Prince” at 10:30am Grade C “Harry Potter and the Deathly This was a much better film when it was called Hallows Pt 1” at 1:30pm “As Good As it Gets.” Yes, I think the AARP crowd “Harry Potter and the Deathly deserves movies aimed directly at their demoHallows Pt 2” at 3:30pm graphic, but no, I don’t think you have to sacrifice quality to provide that. “And So it Goes” is the latest The Tyler Public Library is located at 201 S. College mishap from the once crowd pleasing director Rob Ave., downtown Tyler. For more information (903)593-7323, www.tylerlibrary.com.

Reiner (last time he worked with Douglas was on “The American President”). Reiner has always been For more movie reviews go to.... one of the few directors to make movies for his own demographic; sadly, they are rarely good (“The Story of Us,” “The Bucket List”). Douglas seems an ill fit for playing a guy who would fall in love with someone his own age (especially with the characters he has played in the past and being married to Dustin’s “Best” Catherine Zeta Jones), while Keaton is just play& “Worst” of ing the same woman she has been playing the last 20 years. ​ 2014...So Far A bitter real estate agent, pining away his time “Best” Movies until he sells his 8 million dollar home and enjoy“Begin Again” - A ing making the residents of the Shangri-La apartment complex he owns miserable. Reality sets in “X-Men Days of Future Past” - A for Oren Little (Douglas) when his former drug “Snowpiercer” - Aaddicted son shows up on the doorstep with “Labor Day” - A9-year-old Sarah. In one second Oren becomes a “Hellion” - Agrandfather and must figure out a way to take care “Fault of our Stars - B+ of this bright eyed little girl. In comes the next door “Chef” - B+ neighbor, amateur crooner Leah (Keaton), who “Grand Budapest” - B+ missed out on motherhood and takes the oppor“Boyhood” - B+ tunity to nurture this abandoned girl. The love she “The Railway Man” - B+ exudes has an effect over Oren, who realizes that maybe the death of his loving wife isn’t the end of “Worst” Movies his, and there is more fun to be had.

“Lucy” - F After recently being impressed with the vocal “I, Frankenstein” - Dstylings of Kiera Knightley in “Begin Again,” Oscar “The Bag Man” - Dwinner Diane Keaton reminds us that not all “300: Rise of An Empire” - Dactresses can sing. It’s probably the most unflattering singing from an actor I have endured in a while.

“Mood Indigo” - DKeaton, dressed in her usual black and white and “3 Days to Kill” - D accompanied by her contract dictating scarves and “Transformers 4” - D her own wardrobe, cries every five minutes and “Adult World” - D certainly drives the notion home to my generation “Legend of Hercules” - D that she is a one note actor. However, Leah does have one particularly memorable moment where she explains why she could never have meaningless Liberty Hall, sex, even at her current age, and it’s a beautiful ode located in to the sanctity of intimacy. downtown Unfortunately, the entire script is predictable Tyler, offers and lacks any development and maturity from the entertainment through film, theater, comedy and characters. They nearly turn on a dime and venture music. There is not a bad seat in the house - only off into that happily ever after scenario. Douglas 315 to choose from. Most movies are $5-$7. and Keaton have little to no spark. Perhaps neither Upcoming movies are: were never truly great actors of their generations, June 5th at 7pm...............“Some Like it Hot” (1959) but seeing them here, like this, in a film that can July 10th at 7pm.................................“Jaws” (1975) only be described as a Lifetime film at best, just July 12th at 3pm....................“The Goonies” (1985) makes me feel sorry for them. True, there are not July 17th at 7pm............................. “Grease” (1978) enough diverse roles in Hollywood for aging stars, July 19th at 3pm.............“The Dark Crystal” (1982) but there must be something better than this sappy, July 24th at 7pm... “Raiders of the Lost Ark” (1981) feel good, waste of time. Eh, and so it goes...

July 26th at 3pm...........“The Wizard of Oz” (1939) Final Thought – Another sad misfire for director Reiner and the entire cast.

“And So It Goes”

EGuideMagazine.com

Monday & Tuesdays

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Wednesdays

Kids Eat Free w/ Adult 2551 S. Main St., 7 Day Buffet 11am-10pm Lindale

AUGUST 9 at 3 P.M.

 “Willy Wonka” (1971) AUGUST 16 at 8 P.M.

Edwin McCain in Concert AUGUST 22 at 7 P.M.

 “Monty Python and the Holy Grail” September 6 at 8 p.m.

 Card 53 Improv Show September 13 at 8 p.m.

Jazz Showcase

September 19 at 7 p.m.

TX Speakers Series Presents: Dana Bowman October 2 at 8 p.m.

“Psycho”

October 4 at 8 p.m.

 Ray Wylie Hubbard October 9 at 8 p.m.

“The Shining”

October 16 at 8 p.m.

“The Texas Chainsaw Massacre” October 17 at 8 p.m.

Comedian Monique Marvez Downtown Tyler 103 E. Erwin, Tyler

A department of the City of Tyler

EGuideMagazine.com • 7

Music

The Bigsbys:

On the Road to Becoming Beasts of Musicians

By Stephen Boothe Roots Rock, Americana, or whichever name you choose to label that unique sound I like to call Texas Country is not only alive and well but is thriving here in Texas; and you have to go no further than Palestine, Texas to find some of the best this state has to offer.

From The Bigsbys website: “The path to finding willing ears for new music is a twisted, thorny road. Good songs, good music and good people inevitably find their way into open ears and hearts. The Bigsbys play rock and roll distilled from the roots of America and tested by the road. The band is quickly building a reputation for soulful performances, tight sets and a unique sound. ‘Good Will Suitcase,’ their second album is out now.”

I first met Alex, Russell, Brad, and Nick after a performance at a festival in Tyler, Texas. I was not only impressed with their performance but also with their songwriting and musical ability. I remember asking ‘Where are y’all from?’ and when the answer was ‘Palestine,’ I was blown away. I remember thinking ‘Where have you guys been hiding’ followed by ‘These guys are going somewhere.’ The topper was that they are such great people. But what else would you expect from Texans?

Being around these guys is like being around family because they are that laid back. It was a pleasure to interview them and ask them a few questions about where they came from, where they are going, and what lies in between.

EGuide: I never asked, how did you come up with the name The Bigsbys?

Alex: I wish there was a good answer. We were tossing around band names and my last name is Smith. I always wanted to have a band that used a last name and well, Smith was taken so we were thinking about what to use and The Bigsbys came up and it kinda stuck. I have always liked the single word names like The Beatles, The Who, and so forth. It doesn’t have anything to do with the vibrato on the guitar, by the way. We used to be called ‘Alex Smith and The Two Car Garage,’ so we definitely had to shorten that up!

and Jonathan. Jonathan also brought in the keyboard player he plays with to do the keyboard parts. We’re hoping to get a full time keyboard player by the end of the summer. I really love that 5 piece sound, so adding a keyboard player will really add to our sound.

EGuide: Why the name ‘Good Will Suitcase’?

Alex: About a year - year and a half ago we were on this crappy tour with 19 shows in 21 days. We went from Palestine, TX to Chapel Hill, NC and Alex: Yeah, it’s been one of those things where we just locked ourselves in a garage for about six months and tried to get as tight as every state in between. We were so new to this, we were thinking ‘just possible. When I look at bands like Uncle Lucius or Shiny Ribs, who get out there and play’ but hadn’t learned that there are both good and have been playing together for a while, I see what years of experience bad ways to do tours. We hadn’t figured out which days of the week will get you. We’re still just working at it and I think in five or six to play, which days to do radio spots, and that kind of thing - we were years, we will be a beast. paying our dues, so to speak.

You know we all speak different languages when it comes to So we were out there for a while without much money; and the music. Brad and Nick are big music theory guys - Nick coming from little suitcase that I carried my pedals around in broke and I was down the Baylor University Band and Brad is big on music theory while to about 20 bucks in my pocket. So we go into this Goodwill Store Russell and I aren’t so much, but we find a way to come together to and I buy this little suitcase for 3 bucks. Then when we got in the van, make it work. We are getting to that point where we understand each I opened it up and discovered 10 bucks hidden behind the name tag other better compared to a couple of years ago, and now we are able inside. to play off each other a lot more.

It was one of those things when you get down on your luck, the EGuide: I really love your first CD ‘True Story’ and am most, good things happen to you. equally impressed by your new CD ‘Good Will Suitcase.’

how far you guys have come in your career.

You seem to have stretched out a bit on the second CD. Is EGuide: Is this where you expected to be at this point? this part of a master plan or is this just a natural progression Did you expect this kind of success at this point in your careers? as you grow?

Alex: We really haven’t, as a band, done anything the traditional way. Our first record was primarily just a bunch of songs that I had written on acoustic guitar and brought to the guys and said ‘lets make big songs out of these.’ So we went into the studio to cut ‘True Story’ with EGuide: How long have y’all been playing together? that all worked out. On our second record, we had gotten a small record Alex: Well, Russell and I have been playing together for around deal with an Indie label through Shiner Bock Beers and they paid for us three - three and a half years. Prior to that I was playing in a cover to go into the studio, but we had a specific time frame to work in and band for a while and then went solo doing some acoustic shows in the get it done. So we went into the studio with only about three or four East Texas area. After a while, I thought I would just teach my buddy songs we had been working on and had not really been thinking about Russell how to play bass, so I showed him a few notes and he just took making a record until we got that deal. In a couple of months we had it from there. Then after about two weeks he was showing me stuff. cranked out about 22 songs, but they were pretty barebones - like a Then, a friend of mine, Stefan Cotter played guitar with us for a little verse and a chorus. So after 2 weeks in the studio, we built those songs while when he first moved here from West Virginia. Then we got a from the ground up. It wasn’t one of those ‘spend a year writing, spend drummer when Stefan started doing his own thing. We found Brad a year getting ready situations.’ It was ‘Let’s go in here and just do it and and he’s been playing with us for about three years. Nick replaced the see what happens.’ So that’s what we did and I’m pretty happy with it! drummer we had and he’s been with us for about two years. LookEGuide: Who did you work with on the record? ing back, everything just fell in place but at the time, it felt very rocky Alex: Jonathan Tyler and Matt Pence produced the record for us building our band. at The Echo Lab in Denton. Matt has won a Grammy for some music EGuide: That’s a pretty short period of time considering he had previously produced so we were glad to work with both him

Alex: I never really had any expectations to be honest. There have been so many things that we have done and that have had happen.

There are several bands that I’ve always looked up to, like Reckless Kelly, and to get a chance to play with guys like that, to have them call up or e-mail and say, ‘hey come open for us for a few shows,’ that is something I never would have dreamed would happen.

We’re happy. Our families support us and our friends support us.

We have a great bunch of people that help us, like our Manager Matt Torno. He’s doing Bigsbys things every single day. He’s done so much for us. He’s not afraid to call someone up and say ‘give these guys a chance, they’re good.’ It takes an army and we are grateful for those who have helped us build our dream. We just want to keep playing and keep getting better and hope people enjoy our music and want to come see us.

The Bigsbys will be playing Friday, August 22nd at Lago del Pino, 14706 CR 1134, just off Spur 364 in west Tyler, (903)561-LAGO, www.lagodelpino.com. Find more info at www.bigsbysband.com. The concert starts at 8pm and there is a cover charge.

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 8 • EGuideMagazine.com

EGuideMagazine.com • 9

Senor Gringo:

“We Just Started Falling in Love with This Genre…This Latin Jazz” Written and Photographed by Chloe Hodge It’s not unusual for large crowds to gather early on Friday nights at Tyler’s FRESH by Brookshire’s and although this night is no exception, you would think that the heat would be a deterrent. However, there’s no stopping this bunch from coming out early to score a great table and watch while the evening’s entertainment sets up their equipment, tunes their guitars, plugs in their amplifiers, and adjusts their sound.

And actually, the heat is stifled well by a nice breeze and the shade of the building, so its quiet pleasant even though the temperatures are soaring.

As the hot Texas sun begins to descend, Senor Gringo begins their renditions. When the music starts, the crowd experiences a sound quite uncommon for the area. Riffs of Latin guitar and bell chimes fill the air between the chatter and the cheers. Money is thrown into the open guitar case while the musicians play classic Santana. A particular vibe and passion of playing is reflected by those who are in attendance, becoming human metronomes while they tap their toes to the beat, allowing a bond to form with the performers. It is a relationship built on the foundation of the thrill of music.

That is the impression I got when I spoke with the members of the Tyler based quintet in their studio that is embellished with posters of the Beatles’ prominent “Abbey Road” album cover and Dire Straits.

That is when it registered that I had stumbled upon the four-walled canvas of their melodic works of art.

“Our music is always a work in process. We get together maybe once a week in our studio,” says keyboardist Don Elbert. “The process has developed over a long time.”

The band was formed many years ago, with this particular lineup of musicians only being a few months old. In the early years of Senor Gringo, the band was primarily inspired by classic rock. As time shifted, Senor Gringo has made a drastic transition - blending that same classic rock music with the rich culture of flamenco guitar.

“I just got turned on to the flamenco guitar. It’s everywhere in all varieties of genres. It’s in country songs and rap and rock. From Jesse Cook to Puff Daddy,” said guitarist and vocalist Richard Callahan. “I just love it.”

The musicians in the band come from various backgrounds of music. Richard Callahan was inspired through metal bands such as Pantera, Testament, and Metallica.

Keyboardist Don Elbert’s music career comes from a soft blues background.

Percussionist Elbert Wright began his musicianship with jazz. Alex

10 • EGuideMagazine.com

Blair, the bassist, is a high school orchestra director who had been taught by a diverse blend of instrumentalists from the classical to modern day music.

For drummer Kevin Ewalt, music has taken him around the world, including South America. That is where the inspirations for the Latin style jazz came about. With the various backgrounds of euphonious influences came the birth of a distinctive sound, so easily differentiated from other bands in the area.

“We had started out doing all this rock and blues music, but we started falling in love with this genre… this Latin jazz sound and feel,” said Don Elbert, the keyboardist for Senor Gringo. “We’re having a blast with it.”

Hours of practicing scales and songs went into learning the quick rifts to really capture that Spanish essence. Although the members of the band have been playing for a combined number of decades, the grooves and techniques that come with the Latin style melodies were

a challenge for the band. That challenge is made clearly visible by the callused hands caused by picking strings or beating on a Conga - the result of playing a single song for 10 minutes.

Senor Gringo has become popular entertainment for those in Smith County, playing in many restaurants like Jul’s, Fresh, and Cork.

Their goals however, exceed delighting fellow East Texans. The band is in the process of recording their latest work to be publish on iTunes.

Senor Gringo will perform every Saturday at 7pm at Jul’s, located on Old Jacksonville Hwy. “We are very proud of our gigs at Juls,” said Wright. “We get treated really well and always have a blast playing there. Everyone has lots of fun.” The public is invited to attend and admission is free.

For more info about the band and a schedule of upcoming live performances, check out the Senor Gringo Jazz Facebook page at www.facebook.com/Senor-gringo-jazz.

Johnny & The Nightcrawlers:

Events

A True-to-Form Old Fashioned Blues Band

By Amanda Main

Making a claim as being a part of the only “true blues band in the area,” John Simmons has fronted Tyler-based band Johnny & The Nightcrawlers for 21 years.

Simmons – lead vocalist, harmonica player, dobro guitar player, and player of the occasional beer bottle “cowbell,” according to the band’s Facebook page – started the band with longtime friend Don Elbert, who now sometimes plays with them during special events. The band’s current regular members include T.J. Hammersley on lead guitar, slide guitar and vocals; Ken Murray on bass guitar and vocals; and drummer J.C. Rodgers.

The band members, who are in their 60s (Simmons, the youngest, turns 60 on August 29th), have been musicians for more than 40 years. The current members have been together for about six years.

EGuide Magazine recently spoke with Simmons for an interview about the band, its history and future plans.

EGuide: How did you form your connections with your current bandmates?

Simmons: T.J. and I played on and off together since the early ’80s. And then J.C., the drummer, played with us back in the ’90s for a couple of years, and then we had Joe Griffin for quite a few years, and Joe had to go off to do a different project, so we got J.C. back to fill Joe’s place. And then Ken Murray and I were playing in a band backing up songwriter-singer Scott Walker, which is how we met. Scott’s music was more country, Texas country, and we made the connection, Ken and I did, with the blues, and so he started playing bass with the Nightcrawlers. We never actually quit playing with the Nightcrawlers while we were playing with Scott Walker, but we would do both projects.

EGuide: Where did you come up with the name “Nightcrawlers”?

Simmons: Well, Don Elbert actually named the band when we were playing real regularly down at Rick’s on the Square. Rick was asking Don, “Come on, I need a name for this band,” and Don just kind of popped Johnny & The Nightcrawlers off the top of his head. And it stuck.

EGuide: So it didn’t really have anything to do with worms, directly?

Simmons: No, actually, Don wasn’t even thinking about nightcrawler worms; he was thinking about things that crawl around at night. That’s kind of what musicians do, you know, we crawl around at night.

EGuide: How did you get your start in music?

Simmons: I had a real early background in music – piano lessons when I was 7, 8, 9. I was in elementary, junior high, high school bands, singing at church, and then I guess in college, I kind of dabbled with the harmonica. I started playing guitar when I was about 19 when I was in Lubbock going to school at Texas Tech. I started playing with some guys in the lobby of the dorm, and that kind of led to playing in some clubs, probably in ’77, ’78, and I’ve been doing it ever since.

EGuide: Are you an East Texas native?

old black blues artists like T-Bone Walker, Lightnin’ Hopkins and Ike Turner, and just very true-to-form blues. Of course, we rearrange a lot of it to suit our instrumentation and our capabilities. And I’ve had a lot of people say that we look like we’re having fun when we’re playing, and we are. We all enjoy it. It’s pretty rare to have four people in a band that get along real well together. A lot of times, there’s one person that thinks they’re a prima donna, and we’re not like that. We’re all equal, and we share the vocals between Ken and T.J. and myself, and nobody thinks that they’re a star. We play as an ensemble rather than a solo person.

EGuide: That’s positive… What musical artists do you and your band most respect as musicians?

Simmons: Well, I’ve always said if I was stranded on a desert island and I only had one album or one artist to take with me, it’d be Muddy Waters.

EGuide: Why is that?

Simmons: He was the first and probably the greatest of the electric blues artists. When it transferred from acoustic to electric blues, which happened in the late ’40s, he was kind of the pioneer of EGuide: So how would you describe electric blues. That means playing on electric guiyour collaboration process? tars rather than acoustic guitars, and with bass and Simmons: We all bring a little something to drums, and harmonica. He had a harmonica player the table. One of us will hear a song or will have that played with him his first two years named Litbeen thinking about a song, and we’ll just bring it tle Walter. And Little Walter is probably one of the to practice or bring it to a gig one night, and say, most respected blues harmonica players that’s ever “OK, we’re going do this, and here’s how it goes.” lived. He was shot and killed in ‘68 at the ripe old And a lot of times, it’s really off the cuff. The person age of, I think, 36 or 37. that’s going to sing it has learned it, and he tells us But practically every blues harmonica player what key it’s in and what the tempo is, and we just, that’s come along since then has tried to emulate play it. And we can get by with that, because every his sound. He was the pioneer of the electric blues Wednesday night, we play a Blues Jam, and it’s not harmonica, played through an old microphone and like a scheduled performance. We can get by with a small amplifier to get kind of a horn-like sound. a little more impromptu, making a mistake or two Sometimes it sounds more like a saxophone than a as we need too in the learning process. It gives us harmonica. In fact, the harmonica has been nicka chance to learn new material without having to named the Mississippi saxophone. meet at somebody’s house and practice a ton. We EGuide: Does your band have any can learn it on stage at our jam. That part is espealbums available or upcoming albums? cially fun for us.

Simmons: We have one that we recorded in EGuide: So the Blues Jam that you play ’02 with the first band, called “Off the Hook,” and every Wednesday night, is it just you guys then we did a live album with the current band playing together and seeing what comes two years ago at Moore’s Store in Ben Wheeler. It’s out of it?

Simmons: Well, there’s some of that, but then a pretty neat little performing arts venue, and we recorded it there, and then Robin Hood Brians maswe have guests. We have lots of different instrumentalists that show up like keyboard players, gui- tered and mixed it for us. Robin Hood is kind of tar players, bass players, drummers, and harmonica an icon in the recording business. What put him players. I’ve had as many as six harmonica players on the map is that he recorded ZZ Top’s first album at one time on stage! Basically we’ve had all the har- and he’s recorded tons of other famous people. But his studio is right here in Tyler. monica players in East Texas come out to the jam EGuide: Where can people get and play at one time (he laughs).

Simmons: Yes, I am. I grew up in New London. T.J.’s originally from Ohio; Ken’s originally EGuide: Does your band write from Las Vegas; he grew up in Las Vegas and Cali- and play original music, too? fornia. He’s been here about 10 years. And then J.C. Simmons: Yes, we have a handful of originals is a Longview native. that we do. I’ve written several, and T.J. and Ken have both written a few songs that we perform.

EGuide: What do you guys love about playing in East Texas?

And what is the Simmons: I guess, we have lots of friends show EGuide: typical subject matter in those? up at our shows, and that’s what we like most about Simmons: Pretty traditional blues subject matplaying locally – all of our friends and fans. ter — love lost, somebody ‘done you wrong.’

EGuide: What would you say makes your band unique?

managed to raise five kids, and they’re all successful. Not a drug addict or slacker in the bunch.

EGuide: Are you married?

Simmons: No. I’ve been single for 20 years.

Simmons: Well, we’re not a rock band that plays a little bit of blues. We’re a pretty true-to-form EGuide: Oh, OK. Married to your music? blues band, and nearly everything we do is by the Simmons: (He laughs.) Yeah. Although I’ve

your albums?

Simmons: We sell them at performances and online at CDBaby.com/jnightcrawlers.

Johnny & The Nightcrawlers have a couple of upcoming performances at FRESH by Brookshires on August 8th and September 12th, both 6-9pm.

The band plays a Blues Jam every Wednesday night in Longview at Leon’s Steakhouse Saloon from 8-11pm.

To feature your band in EGuide Magazine, send us a note at....

EGuideMagazine.com

Saturday, August 9th - Heart of Tyler’s Black Tie Bingo at the Moulin Rouge! Enjoy the atmosphere of the Moulin Rouge at Heart of Tyler’s wildly popular Black Tie Bingo fundraiser to benefit Heart of Tyler’s work toward Downtown Tyler Revitalization. Enjoy four “high stakes” games of bingo, hors d’oeuvres and drinks, music, dancing, the “I Can’t Can-Can” contest, our own hilarious version of rock, paper, scissors, silent auction and general merriment! Tickets at www.outhousetickets.com/ Venue/Heart_of_Tyler_-_Black_Tie_Bingo. This will be held 6:30-11pm at the People’s Petroleum Building, 102 N College Ave, downtown Tyler. For more info call (903)534-1500.

Friday-Sunday, August 1st-3rd - The Great Texas Balloon Race will be held in Longview all day.

This popular event offers fun for the entire family all weekend. The Longview Running Club’s Up & Away 5K will take place Saturday, August 2nd as well as all day music, balloon light-ups, balloon competitions, food vendors, children’s game and more. This is a world class event attracting the very best competitive pilots from across the United States and the world. Considered by many of the pilots that compete at the Great Texas Balloon Race to be the best run event on the circuit, the Great Texas Balloon Race earned Longview the official designation as “The Balloon Capital of Texas” by the Governor of Texas in 1985. Balloon Glows on Friday and Saturday night entertain crowds with an awesome display of color and excitement. This is one of the most popular things to do at the event as the public is able to get up close and watch how balloons are inflated and operate. There are live concerts Friday, August 1st featuring Roger Creager and Saturday, August 2nd Tracy Lawrence will preform. Kids Land is a safe restricted area for children that requires a small separate entry fee.

Activities and attractions differ from year to year but it is always a fun time. Vendors display their arts, crafts and other merchandise in booths lined up along an improvised midway. Food vendors make sure there is always enough to eat and drink during the day and evening. For more info go online to www.greattexasballoonrace.com.

Friday, August 15th – Kilgore “After 5” Concert Series Continues with Daniel Foster and Levi Kitchen - The final “After 5” Concert will be Friday, August 15th with Daniel Foster and Levi Kitchen (9-12pm). This is our Back to School Party. Daniel Foster has a unique style of music, traditional country with a hint of early gospel exposure. Daniel also covers many classic country tunes as well as Daniel Foster “original” songs you are sure to love. Levi Kitchen, minister of music at Kilgore’s Cornerstone Fellowship, is a singer/songwriter who has been performing and recording music most of his life. Levi plays a broad range of styles from Hard/Progressive rock to Acoustic Blues/Jazz. All concerts are free to the public and family friendly. Bring a lawn chair.

Saturday, August 16th - Edwin McCain will be in concert at Liberty Hall, downtown Tyler at 8pm.

Edwin McCain’s voice is everywhere. At any given moment, a radio station is playing one of his songs.

An American Idol hopeful is belting out “I’ll Be.” A newlywed couple is dancing to “I Could Not Ask for More.” There’s Edwin singing the National Anthem before the Atlanta Braves and the Dodgers play for the pennant. Before a NASCAR race at Talladega. And at the NBA Finals. We hear him in over 100 concert halls throughout the country every year, and that’s not even counting the performances at the Super Bowl Village and fundraisers for Habitat for Humanity, the Wildflower Camp Foundation, Kyle Petty’s Victory Junction Gang and so many more. McCain’s innate ability to write and perform songs that somehow every listener claims as their own has made him one of the most enduring and downright likable entertainers of our generation. The “New York Times” dubs Edwin the “great American romantic,” and his fans do certainly agree but it’s the fun that brings them back to his concerts every single time he comes through town.

Edwin roars through soulful renditions of his songs, tosses in irrepressible vintage R&B rhythms and turns his concerts into parties. His between-song-banter is more stand-up than rock star, drawing as many laughs as cheers. Opening for Edwin McCain is “Michealis.”

Michaelis is made up of Meagan, Mallory and Madeline—their surname doubles as their band name—the group has been winning over audiences throughout its native Texas for years. The girls spent the past two years collaborating with visionary Nashville producer Dave Brainard (Jerrod Niemann, Brandy Clark) on their debut album, a collection of songs that marries the traditional country their father played for them while growing up with the ’90s showmanship of artists like Garth Brooks, Shania Twain and, another Texas trio, the Dixie Chicks. There are a few tickets still available. This will be held at Liberty Hall, 113 E. Erwin, downtown Tyler, www.LibertyTyler.com.

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Jake’s, Downtown Tyler Saturday, August 23rd 9-12 midnight No Cover! Great View of Downtown Tyler Facebook.com/ bluelouie

Available for Rental

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EGuide’s

Friday, August 1st

The Back Porch, Kilgore – Tuxedo Cats, 9-1 Circle M Crawfish – Darrin Morris, 7-10 Coach’s & Cowboy’s – Kevin Fowler, 8 Cork – Jazz Trio, 7-9 Crawdaddy’s, Chapel Hill – Bobby Edwards & The Blue Catz, 6-9 Dick’s Cajun Grill, Mt. Selman – DJ Krash Karaoke, 8-12 The Forge, Ben Wheeler – Thomas Lynn Wade, 7-10 Fresh – Stefan Cotter, 6-9 Jake’s – Darla & Josh, 8-11 Lago Del Pino – Lauren Alexander, 8-11 Mario’s – Live Jazz, 6-10 Potpourri House – Bobby & Ken, 6:30-9 Purple Pig – Live acoustic music, 6-9 Ricks – Empire 6, 8-12 Stanley’s BBQ – A Live One, 9-12 Where’s Rufus – Boogie Butt Karaoke Wrights BBQ – Shelly Davis Concert, 7-10 Yamato – DJ, 9-12

Jakes – Pocket Tangerine, 8-11 Lago Del Pino – Daniel De La Rocha, 8-11 Mario’s – Live Jazz, 6-10 Moore’s Store, Ben Wheeler – Thomas Wade, 8-12 Potpourri House – Bobby & Ken, 6:30-9 Purple Pig - Live Acoustic Music, 6-9 Ricks – Electric Circus, 8-12 Stanley’s BBQ – Nicnos, 9-12 Where’s Rufus – Boogie Butt Karaoke, 8-12 Wrights BBQ – Hoss Huggins, 7-10 Yamato – DJ, 9-12

Saturday, August 9th

The Back Porch, Kilgore – Doctor Doctor, 8-12 Click’s Live – RJV & Hell County Revival, The Beer Munkees, Blueheart rambler, 9-1 Cork – DJ LL, 9-12 Crawdaddy’s, Flint – Karaoke, 8-12 Dick’s Cajun Grill, Mt. Selman – Live Music , 8-12 The Forge, Ben Wheeler – Heather Little & Matt Bradshaw, 7-10 Fresh – Locked & Loaded, 6-9 Halfmoon – Something Blue, 8-12 Iron Horse – Teazur, 9-1 Jake’s – Remedy Stick, 8-11 Juls - Senor Gringo, 8-11 Saturday, August 2nd Lago Del Pino – Brandon Rhyder, 9-12 The Back Porch, Kilgore – Bobby-o & Mario’s – Live Jazz, 6-9 The Mojo’s, 9-1 Moore’s Store, Ben Wheeler – Cody Breakers – Rick St. Mars, 8-10 Riley, 8-11 Click’s Live – Dazed, Blacktop Mojo, 9-1 Potpourri House – Bobby & Ken, 6:30-9 Crawdaddy’s, Flint – Boogie Butts Rick’s – Bushrod Jenkins, 9-1 Karaoke, 8-12 Shoguns – DJ, 8-12 Dick’s Cajun Grill, Mt. Selman – Live Sweet Dreams Winery, Palestine – Music, 8-12 Ramoth Gilead, 5-8 The Forge, Ben Wheeler – Jimmy Wallace & Jerry Don Branch, 7-11 Where’s Rufus – The Haggerty’s, 8-12 Wrights BBQ – Karaoke Contest, 7-10 Fresh – the Haggerty’s, 6-9 XLN – Pocket Tangerine, 9-1 Half Moon – Texas KGB, 9-1 Yamato – Karaoke, 9-1 Iron Horse – Hubcap & The Loose Nuts, 9-1 Sunday, August 10th Jake’s – Caitlyn Brette, 8-11 Circle M Crawfish – Karaoke, 6-10 Juls – Senor Gringo, 8-11 Click’s Live – Acoustic Chaos, 8-12 Lago Del Pino – Tuxedo Cats, 9-12 Crawdaddy’s, Chapel Hill – Crossfire, Mario’s – Live Jazz, 6-9 6-9 Moore’s Store, Ben Wheeler – Sam Riggs Iron Horse – Open Mic, 3-7 Potpourri House – Bobby & Ken, 6:30-9 XLN – Karaoke, 8-12 Rick’s – Elegant Few, 9-1 Tuesday, August 12th Shoguns – DJ, 8-12 Coach’s & Cowboy’s – Karaoke, 8-12 XLN – DeJaVooDoo, 9-1 The Shed, Edom – Pickin & Grinin, 6-9 Where’s Rufus – Ally Venable Band, 9-12 Stanley’s BBQ – Dustin Becker, 7-10 Wrights BBQ – Karaoke Contest, 7-10 Where’s Rufus – DJ , 8-12 Yamato – Karaoke, 9-1 Wednesday, August 13th Sunday, August 3rd The Back Porch, Kilgore – Steve Circle M Crawfish – Karaoke, 6-10 Carpenter, 7-10 Iron Horse – open Mic, 3-7 Click’s Live – Karaoke, 8-12 XLN – Karaoke, 8-12 Coach’s & Cowboy’s – Adam Fears, 8-12 Cork – Dustin Becker, 6-9 Tuesday, August 5th Dick’s Cajun Grill, Mt. Selman – Open Coach’s & Cowboy’s – Karaoke, 8-12 Mic, 8-12 The Shed, Edom – Pickin & Grinin, 6-9 The Forge, Ben Wheeler – Open Mic, Stanley’s BBQ – Dustin Becker, 7-10 6-9 Where’s Rufus – DJ, 8-12 Iron Horse – Southern Comfort Karaoke, Wednesday, August 6th 8-12 Click’s Live – Karaoke, 8-12 Lago Del Pino – Open Mic, 9-12 Cork – Dustin Becker, 6-9 Dick’s Cajun Grill, Mt. Selman – Open Leon’s, Longview – Blues Jam with Jonny & The Night Crawlers, 8-11 Mic, 8-12 Sports Zone – DJ Cicero, 9-12 The Forge, Ben Wheeler – Open Mic, Stanley’s BBQ – Mike Acoustic, 7-10 6-9 Iron Horse – Southern Comfort Karaoke, Thursday, August 14th 8-12 Circle M Crawfish – Karaoke, 5-9 Lago Del Pino – Open Mic, 9-12 Click’s Live – The Foundation, 9-12 Leon’s, Longview – Blues Jam with Jonny Cork – Chance Pena & Emily Evans, 6-9 & The Night Crawlers, 8-11 DJ, 9-12 Sports Zone – DJ Cicero, 9-12 The Forge, Ben Wheeler – Wesley Pruitt, Stanley’s BBQ – Out Of The Question, 7-10 7-10 Half Moon – DJ LL, 8-11 Iron Horse – Boogie Butt Karaoke, 8-12 Thursday, August 7th Moore’s Store, Ben Wheeler – Karaoke Circle M Crawfish – Karaoke, 5-9 Potpourri House – Paul Ruark, 6:30-9 Crawdaddy’s, Chapel Hill – Stephan Purple Pig – Open Mic, 6-9 Cotter, 6-9 Shoguns – Open Mic, 7-10 The Forge, Ben Wheeler – Steve Stanley’s – BBQ & Blues , 6-9 Carpenter, 7-10 Iron Horse – Boogie Butt Karaoke, 8-12 Friday, August 15th Half Moon – DJ LL, 8-11 The Back Porch, Kilgore – What The Moore’s Store, Ben Wheeler – Karaoke, Funk, 8-12 8-11 Click’s Live – Live Music, 9-12 Potpourri House – Paul Ruark, 6:30-9 Cork – Jazz Trio, 7-9 Purple Pig – Open Mic, 6-9 Crawdaddy’s, Chapel Hill – Bobby Ricks – Frank Martin Gillian, 8-12 Edwards & The Blues Cats, 6-9 Shoguns – Open Mic, 7-10 Dick’s Cajun Grill, Mt. Selman – DJ Stanley’s – BBQ & Blues, 6-9 Krash Karaoke, 8-12 The Forge, Ben Wheeler – T Roy & Friday, August 8th Candice Miller, 7-10 The Back Porch, Kilgore – Identity Crisis Click’s Live – Mushroomhead, Ill Nino, Fresh – Texas Rebellion, 6-9 Half Moon Grill – Lager & The Fatties, Cender Cell, Cant Kill The Ugly 8-12 Coach’s & Cowboy’s – Whiskey Myers, Iron Horse – Live Music, 8-12 8pm Jake’s – Chanel 8, 8-11 Cork – Jazz Trio, 7-9 Lago Del Pino – Dustin Becker, 8-11 Crawdaddy’s, Chapel Hill – Bobby Mario’s – Live Jazz, 6-9 Edwards & The Blue Catz, 6-9 Moore’s Store, Ben Wheeler Chase & Dick’s Cajun Grill, Mt. Selman – The New South, 8-11 Karaoke, 8-12 Potpourri House – Bobby & Ken, 6:30-9 The Forge, Ben Wheeler – Jaden FarnPurple Pig – Live Acoustic Music, 6-9 sworth, 7-10 Rick’s – Safira, 8-12 Fresh – Johnny & The Nightcrawlers, Stanley’s BBQ - Stooges Brass Band, 6-9 9-12 Halfmoon – Austin English Band, 8-12 Iron Horse – Bobby Edwards & The Blue Where’s Rufus – Boogie Butt Karaoke, 8-12 Catz, 9-1

Wrights BBQ – Chris Colston, 7-10 Yamato – DJ, 9-12

Fresh – Purple Velvet Fox, 6-9 Halfmoon Grill – Jenna McDaniel, 9-1 Iron Horse – Todd Freeman & BulletSaturday, August 16th proof, 9-1 The Back Porch, Kilgore – Ally Venable Jake’s – Blue Louie, 9-12 Band, 8-12 Juls – Senor Gringo, 8-11 Breakers – Mark Beever, 8-10 Circle M Crawfish – Cody Colston, 7-10 Lago Del Pino – The Elegant Few, 9-1 Mario’s – Live Jazz, 6-9 Click’s Live – Still Bent, Driven Below, Potpourri House – Bobby & Ken, 6:30-9 9-1 Ricks – Live 80, 9-1 Cork – DJ Cicero, 10-1 Shogun – DJ, 7-11 Crawdaddy’s, Flint – Boogie Butt Sweet Dreams Winery – Withrow Karaoke, 8-12 Cooley, 5-9 Dick’s Cajun Grill, Mt. Selman – Live Where’s Rufus - DJ, 9-1 Music, 9-1 Wrights BBQ – Karaoke Contest, 6-9 The Forge, Ben Wheeler – Father XLN – King Richard & The Bayou Boys, Brother, 7-10 9-1 Fresh – Out Of The Question, 6-9 Yamato – Karaoke, 9-1 Iron Horse – I20 Band, 9-1 Jake’s – Joe Teichman, 9-12 Sunday, August 24th Juls – Senor Gringo, 8-11 Circle M Crawfish – Karaoke, 5-9 Lago Del Pino – Brian Grace & The Click’s Live – Acoustic Chaos, 8-12 Medicine Man, 8-11 Iron Horse – Open Mic, 3-7 Liberty Hall – Edwin McCain, 8pm XLN – Karaoke, 8-12 Mario’s – Live Jazz 6-9 Tuesday, August 26th Moore’s Store, Ben Wheeler – Tommy Coach’s & Cowboy’s – Karaoke, 8-12 Alverson, 8-11 The Shed, Edom – Pickin & Grinin, 6-9 Potpourri House – Bobby & Ken, 6:30-9 Stanley’s BBQ – Dustin Becker, 7-10 Ricks – Big Mouth, 9-1 Where’s Rufus – DJ JB, 8-12 Shoguns – DJ, 8-12 Wednesday, August 27th Where’s Rufus DJ, 9-1 The Back Porch, Kilgore – Cole Allen, Wrights BBQ – Karaoke Contest, 6-9 9-1 XLN – Shinebox, 9-1 Circle M Crawfish – Live Music, 5-9 Yamato – Karaoke, 9-1 Click’s Live – Karaoke, 8-12 Sunday, August 17th Coach’s & Cowboy’s – Chase & The Circle M Crawfish – Karaoke, 5-9 New South, 8-12 Click’s Live– Acoustic Chaos, 8-12 Cork – Dustin Becker, 7-9 Iron Horse – Open Mic, 3-7 Dick’s Cajun Grill, Mt. Selman – Open XLN – Karaoke, 8-12 Mic, 8-12 The Forge, Ben Wheeler – Open Mic, Tuesday, August 19th 6-9 Coach’s & Cowboy’s – Karaoke, 8-12 The Shed, Edom – Pickin & Grinin, 6-9 Iron Horse – Southern Comfort Karaoke, 8-12 Stanley’s BBQ – Dustin Becker, 7-10 Lago Del Pino – Open Mic, 9-12 Where’s Rufus – DJ JB, 8-12 Leon’s, Longview – Blues Jam with Jonny Wednesday, August 20th & The Night Crawlers, 8-11 The Back Porch, Kilgore – Jon Reneau, Sports Zone – DJ Cicero, 9-12 7-10 Stanley’s BBQ – Out Of The Question, Click’s Live – Karaoke, 8-12 7-10 Cork – Dustin Becker, 7-9 Dick’s Cajun Grill, Mt. Selman – Open Thursday, August 28th Mic, 8-12 Circle M Crawfish – Karaoke, 6-10 The Forge, Ben Wheeler – Open Mic, Click’s Live – The Foundation, 9-12 6-9 Cork – DJ, 9-12 Iron Horse – Southern Comfort Karaoke, The Forge, Ben Wheeler – Van Darien, 8-12 7-10 Lago Del Pino – Open Mic, 9-12 Half Moon – DJ LL, 8-12 Leon’s, Longview – Blues Jam with Jonny Iron Horse – Boogie Butt Karaoke, 8-12 & The Night Crawlers, 8-11 Moore’s Store, Ben Wheeler – Karaoke, Sports Zone – DJ Cicero, 9-12 8-11 Stanley’s BBQ – Out Of The Question, Potpourri House – Paul Ruark, 6:30-9 7-10 Purple Pig – Open Mic, 6-10 Shoguns – Open Mic, 7-10 Thursday, August 21st Stanley’s – BBQ & Blues , 6-9 Circle M Crawfish – Karaoke, 6-10 Click’s Live – DJ, 8-12 Friday, August 29th The Forge, Ben Wheeler – Nightwork The Back Porch, Kilgore – The Jazz, 7-10 Voodudes, 8-12 Half Moon – DJ LL, 8-12 Cork – Jazz Trio, 7-9 Iron Horse – Boogie Butt Karaoke, 8-12 Crawdaddy’s, Flint – Ramoth Gilead, 6-9 Moore’s Store, Ben Wheeler – Karaoke, Dick’s Cajun Grill, Mt. Selman – DJ 8-11 Krash Karaoke, 8-12 Potpourri House – Paul Ruark, 6:30-9 The Forge, Ben Wheeler – Travis Boldt, Purple Pig – Open Mic, 6-10 7-10 Ricks – Addison & Adams- Big Mouth Fresh – King Richard & The Magills, 6-9 Unplugged, 8-12 Half Moon – Chris Wayne Band, 8-12 Shoguns – Open Mic, 7-10 Jake’s – Joe Snyder, 8-11 Stanley’s – BBQ & Blues, 7-10 Lago Del Pino – matt Begley & Bitter Whiskey, 8-11 Friday, August 22nd Mario’s – Live Jazz, 6-10 The Back Porch, Kilgore – Electric Potpourri House – Bobby & Ken, 6:30-9 Gypsy, 8-12 Purple Pig – Live acoustic music, 6-9 Click’s Live – Victims of Sanity, 9-1 Ricks – Platinum 5, 8-12 Cork – Jazz Trio, 7-9 Stanley’s BBQ – The Effinays,9-12 Crawdaddy’s, Chapel Hill – Bobby Where’s Rufus – Boogie Butt Karaoke, Edwards & The Blue Catz, 6-9 8-12 Dick’s Cajun Grill, Mt. Selman – Wrights BBQ – Todd Rinlee, 7-10 Karaoke, 8-12 The Forge, Ben Wheeler – Bridget Tatum Yamato – DJ, 9-12 & Heather Little, 7-10 Saturday, August 30th Fresh – tuxedo Cats, 6-9 The Back Porch, Kilgore – Teazur, 9-1 Half Moon Grill – Proud Cut Ponies, Crawdaddy’s, Flint – Boogie Butts 8-12 Karaoke, 8-12 Iron Horse – 315 South Band, 8-12 Dick’s Cajun Grill, Mt. Selman – Live Jake’s – Taylor Heard, 8-11 Music, 8-12 Lago Del Pino – The Bigsbys, 8-12 The Forge, Ben Wheeler – Ben Lowery & Mario’s – Live Jazz, 6-9 Wes Hendrix, 7-11 Moore’s Store, Ben Wheeler – Live Fresh – Better Days Review, 6-9 Music, 8-11 Half Moon – DJ, 9-1 Potpourri House – Bobby & Ken, 6:30-9 Iron Horse – Live Music, 9-1 Purple Pig – Live Acoustic Music, 6-9 Jake’s – I20 Band, 8-11 Ricks – Big Daddy, 8-12 Juls – Senor Gringo, 10-1 Stanley’s BBQ – The Nightowls, 9-12 Lago Del Pino – LC Rocks, 9-12 Where’s Rufus – Boogie Butt Karaoke, Mario’s – Live Jazz, 6-9 8-12 Potpourri House – Bobby & Ken, 6:30-9 Yamato – DJ, 9-12 Ricks – The Stars, 9-1 Shoguns – DJ, 8-12 Saturday, August 23rd The Back Porch, Kilgore – Dazed, 8-12 XLN – The Haggerty’s, 9-1 Where’s Rufus – DJ, 8-12 Breakers – Tuxedo Cats, 8-10 Circle M Crawfish – Gypsy Creek, 7-10 Wrights BBQ – Karaoke Contest, 7-10 Click’s Live – Rockett Queen, This Day Yamato – Karaoke, 9-1 Fourth, 8-12 Sunday, August 31st Crawdaddy’s, Flint – Boogie Butts Circle M Crawfish – Karaoke, 6-10 Karaoke, 8-12 Click’s Live – Acoustic Chaos, 8-12 Dick’s Cajun Grill, Mt. Selman – Live Crawdaddy’s, Chapel Hill – Bobby Music, 9-1 Edwards & The Blue Catz, 6-9 The Forge, Ben Wheeler – Bridget Tatum Iron Horse – open Mic, 3-7 & Heather Little 7-12 XLN – Karaoke, 8-12

Festivals

attendees, but reservations should be made soon, as space is obviously limited.

VIP tickets are $50 and standard tickets are $30 for both days.

Tickets for one day only are $20. Children’s tickets (12 and under) are $15 for both days, and $10 for one day only. Tickets are on sale now.

For more information, you can visit Jericho’s Tours of Tyler at toursoftyler.com. There is a link to Tyler Rose City Comic Con near the top of the page. You can also reach them by phone or text at (214)621-6071.

Tyler Rose City Comic Con:

Upcoming Festivals

A Gathering of People Who Love Fun A Little More than Others

Colin Baker, the 6th Dr. Who

By Lynn Dark If you’re like me, you have probably always thought of Comic Con conventions as gatherings for people who are a little too obsessed with comic books and movie characters. A grown up, nerd version of Halloween, if you will. I was surprised to learn that there’s a lot more to it than that.

I sat down with George Jones of Jericho’s Tours of Tyler to get the scoop on Tyler’s second annual Comic Con, which takes place on October 25th and 26th at the Holiday Inn on South Broadway. Jones’ company hosts the annual event. It was an overwhelming success last year, and is expected to continue to grow by leaps and bounds this year.

Comic Con International originated in San Diego in 1970, and has since spread throughout the globe. It has become a series of conventions for fans of science fiction, fantasy, horror and comic books.

People dress up in costumes. There are celebrity guests, panel discussions, vendors, artists, exhibitions, activities for children, a cosplay contest and masquerade ball, and an after-party.

There are quite a few featured guests this year. Leading the pack is Colin Baker, the 6th Dr. Who in the wildly popular BBC series, and the longest running science fiction series of all time. Baker is a fan favorite at Comic Con conventions and other Dr. Who events. He has a long and distinguished acting career. Some of Baker’s most recent work includes the TV series “Doctors” and he has a movie coming out later this year.

Kris Holden-Ried will also be there. You may have seen him in “The Tudors,” “Lost Girl,” “Underworld Awakening,” or “Night of the Demons 3.” The Canadian actor is very approachable.

Comic book author and artist Mike Grell will be in attendance.

Grell does work for Ground Zero Comics, one of the event’s sponsors.

His credits include “The Warlord” and “Legion of the Super Heroes.”

Actor Neil Napier is also a featured guest. He has appeared in many feature films including “300,” “Immortals,” and “Riddick.” You can also look for him on the SyFy series “Helix.”

Canadian actress Jennifer Spence, who played Dr. Lisa Park in the TV series “Stargate Universe,” will be there. Some of her other acting credits include “Exes and Ohs,” “The 4400,” “Reunion,” “Write & Wrong,” “Killer Instinct,” “Da Vinci’s Inquest,” “The Killing,” and “Alcatraz.”

Actor Peter Kelamis is another featured guest. He is known for playing Dr. Adam Brody in “Stargate Universe” and Goku in the animated series “Dragon Ball Z.” Other guests include author Timothy Zahn (“Star Wars,” “Quadrail,” “Cobra,” “Conquerors Trilogy,” “Dragonback”), actor Theo Crane (Big Tiny on AMC’s “The Walking Dead”), Brain Steward (artist, radio personality, and celebrity interviewer), Michael Stewart (author, role play game designer, and Tyler Junior College history professor), artist Blake Ovard and comic book artist Ty Tyner.

Also attending are actor and Anime voice talent Bryan Massey, Anime voice talent Kristen McGuire , TV host Halloween Harvey (“Festival of Fear”), entertainer and hit of last year’s convention D-Piddy, makeup artist Jennyfer Keohane, cosplayer and entertainer Michael “Knightmage” Wilson, cosplayer Annaka Vader, The Paranormal Junkies, radio host Chris Vickers (“Shadows of the Paranormal”), radio host Shawn Paine Stowe (“Walk In The Darkness” Radio), race car driver DoDad Burton, and illustrator Alex McVey. At the time of this writing, there are at least four other celebrity guests who may attend, but negotiations for their appearance are still underway. In addition to the opportunity to speak to the celebrities at

Kris Holden-Reid

individual booths, there will also be panel discussions. A schedule will be posted online.

After last year’s success, celebrities are actually contacting Jones to express their interest in attending the event. Some guests are paid to attend, but others want to come simply to be a part of it.

Jones tries to pick guests that are laid back and easygoing. Many are fine with having their pictures taken with fans, but it is always proper etiquette to ask, rather than assume.

VIP tickets might not be a bad idea. While they are a little more expensive, they bump you to the front of every line and give you first access to the panel discussions. Your non-VIP ticket will get you in, but only if it isn’t already full. Seating for panel discussions is done on a first come, first served basis. There will also be special VIP only events.

Over 3,000 people attended last year. That number is expected to double (and possible triple) this year. People of all ages attend Comic Cons, but the majority fall into the 25-45 age category. Most (but not all) attend in costume.

Cosplay literally means playing in costume. It consists of dressing up and acting the part of any character. It is more than putting on a costume. You are expected to put forth the attitude and persona of your character. Some people combine characters, and others make up their own. People have even been known to dress up their babies, as well as their animals!

Vendor space is extremely reasonable. The fee is $75 for both days.

This year’s vendors include Ground Zero Comics, Rocket Fizz, Geek World, RC Comics, Abbott Design Studio, and more. Vendors will continue to be added as the event approaches.

Artist’s alley is devoted entirely to artists. Some use the space to display work done previously, while others do works during the convention. For example, a spray paint artist will be doing live demonstrations.

Collectors will be there to sell items such as comic books and movie memorabilia. If you are looking for something specific, you may find it at the convention, or talk with someone who can tell you where to find it.

There will also be plenty of exhibits. Examples include displays, and static sets to stand in front of and have your picture made.

Other activities include movie screenings, a Hollywood theatrical makeup class, a zombie run, a cosplay contest, Medieval recreation (jousting, sword fighting, etc.), and many, many others.

This year, Jones has a person dedicated to nothing but children’s activities. There will be an art contest, a kid’s cosplay, a martial arts demonstration, sword fighting (with soft weapons) and much more.

Parents should keep an eye on their kids. The event takes place in an enclosed space, but it can be very intimidating to a child when the majority of adults are in costume.

The cosplay contest will be held during the masquerade ball on Saturday night. Cash prizes are awarded for first, second, and third place.

There will also be an after party on Sunday night at Terror Nights, the largest haunted attraction in East Texas.

Holiday Inn Tyler is offering significant discounts to Comic Con

September 12th-14th - 271 Biker Rally benefiting the Texas Wounded Warrior (txwoundedwarrior.com) will take place. The event will have The Traveling Veteran Wall brought out to the location so people can pay respects to those who have sacrificed so much for this country. Their will also be other fun activities like 11 live bands, a Poker Run, Best Bike Contest, Burn Out Contest, Tattoo Contest, Bikini Contest and many other games and entertainment. RV and Tent Camping will be available too. Robin “Boogie” Butt of Boogie Butt Productions will be the Emcee of Ceremonies for the event. (www.boogiebutt.com). Some of the bands scheduled are Locked and Loaded, Ally Venable Band, The Haggerty’s, Black Top Mojo, Todd Freeman and Bullet Proof, The Blacksmiths, Hubcap and the Loose Nuts, Sons of Affliction, Interstate 20 Band, Chip Murrey and Texas Underground, and Dazed, all sponsored by Striping Technology.

Tickets are $30 per person to preregister; or $40 at the gate which gets you a wristband for entire rally; one day tickets are $25 per person. Camp sites are available on a first come first served basis. RV with water and electric is $110 per night. RV Dry camping is $65 per night. Tent camping is $30 per night. Spaces are filling up fast.

September 20th - 2nd Annual Car, Truck, and Bike Show will be held all day featuring lots of cars, trucks and more! All proceeds will go to the Texas Wounded Warriors. There will be coffee and donuts for early birds as well as a new judging format. All vehicles are welcome. Past and present veterans will be recognized at the opening ceremony. Cost are: pre-registration $15, and at the show is $20 to enter. Gates open 8am and the Veteran Appreciation will be at 9am with judging starting 9:30am and an Award Ceremony 2pm. This will be held at Pleasant Retreat, 10108 Pleasant Hollow Road, Tyler. Call (903)520-8373 for more info.

September 19th - September 28th - The East Texas State Fair will be held at the East Texas State Fairgrounds. Even bigger than ever, the ETSF promises fun for the entire family with food, carnival rides, games, vendor booths, competitions, live music and tons more.

Admission is $8 for adults, $5 for children, and under 5 years old is free. Specials are everyday, log onto www.etstatefair.com for more info.

October 16th - 19th - The Texas Rose Festival, Tyler - Each October thousands of visitors flock to Tyler for the excitement and pageantry of the Texas Rose Festival. For the entire month of October, Tyler celebrates the Rose Season with a plethora of activities that range from family fun to educational and cultural events. We welcome you to come and enjoy all Tyler has to offer during this special season.

Nestled in the piney woods of East Texas a short 90 minute drive from Dallas, Tyler is home to the largest municipal rose garden in the United States. Known for its natural beauty, Tyler celebrates it rose growing history during the month of October when the roses are at their peak bloom. In addition to the Rose Garden, which features more than 32,000 bushes and 600 cultivars, the Rose Season presents horticulture workshops, tours of the renown Chamblee Rose Center specializing in Earthkind® Roses, a Texas Music Festival, the Tyler Rose Marathon, garden tours, the Arts, Crafts and Plant Sale, and so much more.

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EGuideMagazine.com Fundraisers, Runs & Walks, Theatre Productions, Music Concerts, Lectures, Seminars, Art Exhibits...and much much more!

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To Do Cherokee Trace Drive-Thru Safari:

A Fun Open Range Park Where Animals Roam and Browse at Will Written and Photographed by By Barbara King Less than an hour’s drive from Tyler lies an interactive animal adventure, Cherokee Trace Drive -Thru Safari. Imagine taking your own self-guided tour of 300 acres of wild, grazing animals you can feed and photograph.

Four miles of winding roads lead you through a breathtaking safari of open range wildlife park. Over the crest of a hill you might see frolicking deer grazing alongside llamas or zebra in the lush landscape. It will definitely be a very up close and personal experience, with the animals loping over to be fed grain pellets and some blocking the way by leisurely strolling down the middle of the road. In the rear view mirror you might spot a water buffalo or a 4 foot tall South American rhea bird.

Tom Smith is the park ranger for the Safari, that has been open for over ten years. “We are home to over 550 animals, including over 40 different species,” he explains. “We want to keep this as natural an environment as possible, so you’ll never see paved roads and there is minimal signage in the park.”

Chances are you will be greeted by “superstar” dromedary, Ollie. She may appear slow at 2,000 pounds, but this intelligent camel is skillful at spotting the feed bag, reaching through the vehicle and devouring the treat, bag and all.

To begin the adventure, guests are required to sign in at the Welcome Center to receive the “rules of the road” which include staying in the vehicle, keeping doors shut, and keeping to the speed limit of 10mph.

Pets are not allowed in the park, as they pose a safety and health risk to the animals. Included with the price of admission is one feed bag for each visitor, filled with natural grain pellets for the animal residents. Visitors are also given laminated cards with detailed descriptions of species, countries of origin and native habitats and characteristics, for example, our friend Ollie has one hump to store fat, not water.

The staff at the Welcome Center are knowledgeable and helpful and the facilities themselves are spotless and very well maintained. The park’s car trail is very well marked with yellow arrow signs indicating the proper direction of travel. The Welcome Center also has a very enviable gift shop, stocked with every kind of stuffed animal imaginable, mugs, backpacks, magnets and other keepsake memories of your visit.

Spotless restrooms and snacks are available, as well as a large picnic area.

This is an open range park, which means the animals roam and browse at will. Mr. Smith says “no two visits to the park are ever the same. The animals graze in herds but depending on the time of day or the season, they can be found in different areas and every time through is a new adventure.” A visitor pass is good for all day, so many folks go through more than once (a typical visit with stops and starts is generally 1-1/2 hours) or take a lunch break and venture through again.

“The park is a natural habitat and pretty self-sufficient” says Smith. We have been introducing 1 or 2 new species every year, and have lots of recent births, including new baby zebra, watusi (African longhorn cow), bison, mini-donkey and eland. The animals in the park actually have extended life spans, due to the low stress environment and good feeding conditions.”

14 • EGuideMagazine.com

Jay Morgan and her extended family from Tennessee and Virginia visited the park as part of their family reunion and were impressed by the park’s size and the well-maintained, beautiful setting. “This is a first-class, reasonably priced outing that people of all ages will enjoy,” said Mrs. Morgan. “The kids loved feeding the deer and seeing the new baby zebra running alongside the herd.”

Shaking your food sack will bring all kinds of curious animals right up to your window. From antelope to elk, highland cattle or huge bison, every time you turn a corner, the scene is almost unbelievable. It’s a gorgeous setting with savannahs, forested areas and ponds where you can pull over and take your time and watch the animals in a very natural habitat. The area is so spacious, the majority of the time you will feel like you are the only car in the safari.

Kelli Coats, an employee in the Welcome Center considers the park a kind of a “reverse zoo because the animals roam free and we are in the contained environment. We respect them and always understand that they are still wild animals even though very

domesticated.” Two turkeys the staff call Bert and Ernie (who gobble incessantly) are among the favorites on the property.

Cassie Soape and her kids Chilyn, Emery and Eli from Carthage are scouring the gift shop after their safari, giggling about the zebra trying to poke their heads in the car. Mr. Smith estimates the safari hosts 1,000 guests a week during the summer months, from every State and about 20,000 visitors a year.

The park is open year round, closing only Easter Sunday, Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Admission is $13.95 for seniors, $15.95 for adults, children 3-12 are $10.95 and children 2 and younger are free. Come in on your birthday and your visit is free.

Grab your camera for some extreme animal close-ups, make sure there’s plenty of gas in your car and head to Jacksonville and go on safari.

For hours, directions and more info go to www.cherokeetrace.com or call (903)683-3322. The park is located at 1200 CR 4405, Jacksonville, Texas.

Life With Pets:

Every Pet Lover’s Dream Written and Photographed

by By Barbara King It most likely will be a furry friend who will greet you enthusiastically as you enter the ‘Life with Pets’ boutique on Old Bullard Road in Tyler. Owner, Pam Boyd Bombyk, one of the most passionate pet aficionados you will ever meet, wouldn’t have it any other way.

The bright, charming little house hidden across from Rice Elementary, is every pet lover’s dream, with a difference. As Mrs. Bombyk explains, “the store offers pet owners an alternative from the expensive big box stores with the assurance that our products are healthy and non-toxic.”

A lot of love and research goes into Mrs. Bombyk’s unique selections for man’s best friend (and felines too!). Originally from Detroit, Mrs. Bombyk has lived in the East Texas area for eleven years and brings a wealth of expertise and experience to her pet venture. She wrote the “East Texas Awakening Pet” magazine and was one of the organizers behind the first Petapalooza adoption event in Ben Wheeler.

Armed with a degree in natural health and homeopathy and the business experience gained in owning a staffing company, Bombyk opened the doors of Life With Pets last November.

This is hardly your average pet store; it’s more of an educational experience.

Every visitor to the store is given a mini tour with product explanations. Don’t expect to find your average dog food or pet supplies, as Bombyk explains, “the concept behind the store is to provide all natural, healthy, holistic alternative pet products after discussion about specific pet concerns.” The store aims to promote a pet’s good health and the sharing of education and resources as well. The majority of the store’s products promote good pet health by including no dyes, parabens, sulfates or toxins.

Most folks will be surprised to learn that pets suffer from a majority of the same ailments that their owners do; everything from weight issues to allergies.

The store also stocks healthy treatments for joint pain, hot spots, cracked noses, tear stains, bad breath, and indigestion. Anti-anxiety treatments, calming tablets, calming oils and even calming chews, were a big seller over the 4th of July weekend, but also come in handy for the dreaded thunderstorms most dogs fear.

Pauline Johnson from Lindale visited the store desperate to find something to help her 80 pound pit bull, Xerk, with sore, raised spots on his coat. After consulting with Mrs. Bombyk, she bought an organic essential oil shampoo and the problem disappeared after a month.

The specialty dog food, Nature’s Select found

in the store comes from Mount Pleasant, and Bombyk has many repeat customers who come back to buy the grain, soy and sugar free food. Dog treats, including chew items, are safe, no-splinter bones that Bombyk’s own dogs love.

“I don’t promote anything that I haven’t used, tested and been fully satisfied with,” says Mrs. Bombyk.

Dogs are more than welcome in the store to try out some of the specialty leashes and durable harnesses, with collar and slip leads for training purposes. The store also features Molly Mutt stuffable dog beds and crate covers that are brightly colored and patterned. Soggy Doggy chenille microfiber shammies are perfect for smaller dogs, drying 10 times faster than regular towels.

There’s even outdoor pet seating, platform beds and strollers to spoil your pet rotten. Toys found in this boutique are interactive and fun for both pets and owners.

Bombyk’s own terrier mix, Midget, can be found most days lounging in the corner of the store under a specially made covered canopy, supervising the action.

Customer Suzanne Cooper Brown says “for busy pet owners who don’t have time to find out what works and what doesn’t, this is the place for you. Mrs. Bombyk is my doggie naturopath. I have two precious dogs and she has recommended some wonderful natural products that have worked great for anxiety and hip problems.”

Listening to her customers is key to stocking the store, and Bombyk encourages feedback in addition to her own research. “I love merchandising, as well as teaching and promoting,” she says “and I’d rather be here taking care of pets well-being than anywhere else. If I don’t stock it, then I’ll help you find it.”

This store owner truly has a heart for animals, and is thrilled when new pet owners from the SPCA adoption center next door come by to stock up for their new family members. A percentage of the store’s proceeds go to support local shelters and rescues.

The store also accepts drop off pet food donations for the SPCA. There is a free in-store drawing every month and Bombyk makes sure the giveaway fits the pet’s needs.

The store’s Facebook page is another tool Bombyk utilizes to help her furry friends, with links to much needed resources such as boarding and adoption services, health and behavior issues and low cost spaying and neutering services.

“I see ‘Life With Pets’ as a central connection for the East Texas community for the most natural, best quality and best value in pet products,” says Mrs. Bombyk.

Set some time aside, grab the leash and take your pet for a shopping trip to Life With Pets. The store is open Tuesday-Thursday 12-5:30pm, Friday and Saturday 10am-5pm. Life with Pets is located at 5304 Old Bullard Road across from Rice Elementary, (903)7142172 and can be found at www.alifewithpets.com and on Facebook at www. facebook.com/PamsLifeWithPets.

E-Cigarettes - E-Juice Accessories 2 locations to serve you!

Lindale: 3222 South Main St. (903)882-9621 Tyler: 5th St across from Posada’s (903)593-5586

www.paradisevapor.us

EGuideMagazine.com • 15

Events

Entertainment Specialist

YOU’RE READY FOR THIS.

Tyler Junior College is an equal opportunity/affirmative action institution. Complete information is available at www.tjc.edu.

16 • EGuideMagazine.com

Ongoing - East Texas Bombers Roller Derby Season Continues with the following games, all starting at 5pm. Are you ready East Texas? It’s time to get loud with the Bomb Squad! Whether you are a long-time fan or this is your first bout, it is our pleasure to welcome you to the exciting world of Roller Derby.

This is great family fun. The hits that happen on the track are full body contact and skaters may go flying into the suicide seats section. This season games are: • August 2nd - Northside Fury • October 18th - Bat City Rebellion Tickets are pre-sale $10, and at the door, $12. Suicide (track side seating) is $15 and children under 10 are free. Doors open at 4pm and the bouts start at 5pm.

A portion of the proceeds go to local charities. No outside food or drinks are allowed.

Every Monday - Rock ‘n Throw Disc Golf - Come join in the fun as this new weekly playgroup gets together at 5:30pm and focuses on beating the course rather than each other. Meet at the building near the entrance at the Roc Disc Golf Course, 18700 South 69, Tyler.

First Tuesday of the Month - The IDEA Gardening Series is an informative lecture series covering gardening topics suitable for a particular month. The lectures are held on the patio in the IDEA garden, which is located in the southeast corner of Tyler’s Rose Garden starting at 12 noon. There is limited seating.

You may want to bring a lawn chair for your comfort.

The lecture will run for about 30 minutes followed by a question and answer session. Lectures are sponsored by the Smith County Master Gardeners Association and the Texas Agri-Life Extension Service. It is held at The Tyler Rose Gardens, 420 Rose Park Dr., Tyler, (903)670-3302.

Every Tuesday and Saturday - East Texas State Fair Farmers Market will be held starting at 7am. Located under the south pavilion at the Fairgrounds, 2112 W. Front St., Tyler, this farmer’s market features all of it’s favorite farmers that the heart of Tyler has known for years. There has been a market at the fairgrounds for decades and this year is no different. For updates and info visit their Facebook or etstatefair.com. This will continue through August 9th. For more info (903)597-2501.

Every Tuesday - Kid’s Cooking Classes - Come join Kid’s Korner Cooking Class every Tuesday starting at 4:15pm. Sign up near the Taste Kitchen. There is a one-time fee of $25. We help encourage nutritious food habits by giving children a hands on experience while creating lasting memories. Meet us at our Taste Kitchen to join the fun. These fun classes are held at FRESH by Brookshire’s, 6991 Old Jacksonville Hwy., Tyler, www.freshbybrookshires.com.

Every Wednesday - Line Dance Classes are held 7-9pm at Stone Country Dance Hall in Lindale with Michael Martin. For more info go to www.stonecountrydancehall.com.

Every Thursday and Saturday - Rose City Farmers Market will take place 8am-1pm, featuring the best in locally grown produce, local artists, and local music.

This is a vibrant community marketplace promoting fresh, healthy, local foods grown within 75 miles of the market, handcrafted art and artisan products, local music, sustainable living, education, and entertainment. This will take place at Juls Restaurant, 7212 Old Jacksonville Hwy., on Saturdays (7am-1pm) and at the Salvation Army on Thursdays (8am-1pm).

For more info call (903)484-6120, foodcoalition.org.

Admission is free.

First and Third Saturday of each month - Free C&W Dance Lessons will take place at TASCA from 5:306:30pm. Join instructor Hugh Wallace for some great Country & Western dance tips and steps. Then stay to practice your new skills during the C & W dances the same nights, 7-9:30pm. For more info call (903)8713217. TASCA Activity Center Ballroom is located at 10495 CR 2167 (Jim Russell Rd.) in Whitehouse.

Every Saturday - Beth’s Little Farm Market is held 8am – 1pm at the the Lindale Community Theater, 109 West Hubbard, in the rear parking lot behind the Lindale Candy Company. Here at this small farm, we use sustainable and regenerative techniques to grow a diversity of crops in harmony with nature. All of the produce they offer is grown, harvested and processed right there on the farm. They offer organic produce, cut and dried flowers, CSA programs and jams, jellies and pickles. Dr. Tyler Cullender is the farm manager.

For more info, call (817)714-4350 or log on to www. bethslittlefarmmarket.com.

Saturday, August 3rd - Children’s Clothing Consignment Sale’s Biggest Sale of the Year - CCC Rents out Splash Kingdom! Fall 2014 is our 25th sale and we want you to come celebrate with us. We will have Splash Kingdom in Canton all to ourselves August 3rd, 6:30-8:30pm. Tickets are $7/person (regular price is $18-$24). Bring your whole family, and end the summer with a splash. If you are one of

the first 25 to get your tickets, you can use the promo code “CCC25,” and your tickets will be $6 each. CCC is a big consignment event twice a year at Harvey Convention Center. Over 1000 moms come together to sell their gently used clothes, toys, books, furniture, home decor. Tickets are available at www.cccsale.com.

August 4th-8th - “Kids in Motion” Youth Camp at ETMC Olympic Center will be held daily 8am-12 noon. This is a fun youth fitness camp for children ages 8-12. Call (903)-596-3150 for registration and fee information or log on to etmc.org.

Tuesday, August 5th - 23rd Annual Conference Spelling Bee - There’s No Buzzzzness like Show Buzzzzness. Themes are coming to the Bee, and this year’s theme is “Broadway Musicals!” Come dressed up as your favorite musical character. We promise, no singing will be required - only the willingness to support our mission: eliminating illiteracy in our community through educational services and the willingness to have a whole lot fun while doing so.

For more info, call (903)533-0330. This will be held at GABC’s CrossWalk Conference with lunch beginning at 11am and the program beginning promptly at 11:30am.

Saturday, August 9th - “It’s A Healthy Family Affair” Health Fair” will be held starting at 9am at the Tyler YMCA. This is a free Family Health Fair for everyone offering immunizations, a blood drive by Carter Blood Care, Fresh Dental Screenings and more.

Participating vendors include Bethesda Health Clinic, TX Dot Transportation, Tyler Police Department, WIC-Nutrition, Wal-Mart Vision Screening. There will be free Mammograms and Diabetes screenings as well as fingerprinting and safety classes. For more information call the Tyler YMCA at (903)593-7327 Sunday, August 10th - Beginner/Intermediate Photography Class will be held 2-6pm at Epiphany Learning Center, 2210 Three Lakes Parkway, Suite 145, Tyler. For more info call (903)830-0340 or go to www.epiphanylearninghub.com. Visit their site or stop by to learn more about this class and ticket information as well as sign up for other fun classes. All ages.

Saturday, August 16th - “Some Like It Hot” will be held. At 8am- 12 noon FRESH will feature “FRESH and Hot Breakfast;” 10am-4pm a class, “Chili 101!” with Richard Hilts from Melissa’s will demo peppers.

Learn how to cook these and use them in a variety of ways. From 3-4:30pm “Dueling Hot Chefs” will host two of Tyler’s hottest chefs that will show you how to spice up your cooking. FRESH chefs Michael Brady and Marc Mendez will battle it out in the Taste Kitchen and show you which of the two can add more zing to their cuisine. From 4:30-5:30pm, come join the fun for “Salsa Dancing Sensation.” Learn how to do this saucy dance on the FRESH Back Patio.

FRESH’s Alba Menoni and Ronald Hollins will display ‘Rueda Casino Salsa,’ a trendy form of salsa that will make your hips swing. FRESH is located at 6991 Old Jacksonville Hwy., Tyler, (903)747-3503.

Thursday, August 21st - United Way Kick Off Party for the 2014 Campaign will be held 5:30 – 8:30pm at FRESH by Brookshire’s, 6991 Old Jacksonville Hwy., Tyler. There will be live music out on the patio as well as food from FRESH being served.

For more info call (903)581-6376.

Monday, September 1st - Merle Haggard in Concert - Country music legend Merle Haggard opens the Piney Woods Fine Arts Association 24th season with a concert starting at 7pm. This will be held at Crockett Civic Center, 1100 Edmiston Dr., Crockett. Single tickets go on sale August 12th at 9am. For more info go to www.pwfaa.org or call (936)544-4276 Tuesday, September 16th - UT Tyler to Host Justice Clarence Thomas - United States Supreme Court Associate Justice Clarence Thomas will be the featured speaker at The University of Texas at Tyler R. Don Cowan Fine and Performing Arts Center on Tuesday, September 16th. Sponsored by Drs. Lawrence L. Anderson and Svetislava J. Vukelja and Rod and Merle Mabry/UT Tyler, Justice Thomas will be the first speaker of the 2014 – 15 UT Tyler Distinguished Lecture Series. The lecture will begin at 7:30pm. President George H. W. Bush nominated him as an associate justice of the Supreme Court, and he took his seat October 23, 1991. Tickets are on sale now at the UT Tyler Cowan Center box office by calling (903)566-7424 or online at www. cowancenter.org. Box office hours are 9am-4pm, Monday through Friday.

EGuide will list any event for free, yes, you read that right,

FREE.

Log on to our website, click “Submit an Event” and simply fill out the form. It’s that easy.

EGuideMagazine.com

Family A Peaceful Place We Call Home:

The Tyler Library

By Kelly Griffith-Fields

If you think of the Tyler Public Library only as a building full of books you are missing a lot of what they have to offer. “I believe we are a well-kept secret,” Youth Services Librarian Linda Gray said. “It’s more than books but many people don’t think of us that way.”

Gray explained in addition to the various and growing collection of books, the library has a large selection of both DVD and VHS movies suited for children and adults. There’s also a variety of audio books to choose from.

In this electronic age the library is keeping up with the times.

Computers are available for patrons to use. From there they have internet access and the ability to print.

For avid readers, Kindles are available to borrow. Each is already equipped with many popular titles. Individuals may also download eBooks to their own reading device from the Overdrive program featured on the library’s website.

A current library card allows access to the program that offers something for everyone. Among the eBooks and audio books there are both fiction and non-fiction. For younger readers a collection of titles are categorized into kids and teens choices.

TumbleBooks Library is another children’s resource linked from the public library’s home page. Tumblebooks are animated, talking picture books accessed from home computers or other capable devices. Fiction, non-fiction and foreign language titles, math stories, read-alongs, videos from National Geographic, TumbleTV which consists of pre-set playlists of a sequence of books and Tumble puzzles and games are all available in the TumbleBooks Library. Each Tumblebook has recommended reading levels. Tumble puzzles and games are great educational tools.

“The library is a center for the community providing affordable literacy whether it’s digital or not,” Gray said. “It offers entertainment and literacy for all members of the family.”

To attain a library card a photo ID and proof of current street address should be taken to the library’s circulation desk where a registration form may be filled out. Borrowing privileges are free to patrons who pay property tax to the city of Tyler. Community members beyond the city limits may also borrow for a small fee or by purchasing a membership.

To avoid overdue returns the library provides a program to remind borrowers when items are due. The Library Elf sends an email

and text alert before items are due, once items are overdue and when items on hold become available. When signing up for the program multiple family member’s cards may be consolidated to one account. “It’s a wonderful service to take advantage of so that items are not overdue,” Gray said.

In addition to lending entertainment and educational material the library hosts programs and events for the same purpose.

A Sci-fi double feature of “2001: A Space Odyssey” and “John Carter” will be shown August 2nd, 12-5pm.

Family Movie Week begins Monday, August 4th. Three movies a day will be shown at no cost for admission. “We usually wrap up the summer programs with movie week,” Gray said. “It’s good kids movies for the whole family to come enjoy.” Scheduled movies are: Monday, August. 4th

10:30am - “Swiss Family Robinson,” Rated G 1:30pm - “The Lorax,” Rated PG 3:30pm - “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone,” Rated PG Tuesday, August 5th

10:30am - “Honey I Shrunk The Kids,” Rated PG 1:30pm – “WALL-E,” Rated G 3:30pm - “Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets,” Rated PG Wednesday, August 6th

10:30am - “Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory,” Rated G 1:30pm – “Flubber,” Rated PG 3:30pm - “Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban,” Rated PG Thursday, August 7th

10:30am - “Happy Feet,” Rated PG 1:30pm - “Meet The Robinsons,” Rated G 3:30pm - “Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire,” Rated PG-13 Friday, August 8th

For citizens looking to get involved the Tyler Public Library utilizes volunteers. Youth volunteer opportunities are available year round. Students 12-17 years-old are encouraged to help with events and activities. Volunteer hours may be recorded for school programs or to gain work references before applying for a first job. Applications may be filled out online at volunteertyler.com.

Tyler Public Library is located at 201 S College Street in downtown Tyler. Library hours are Sunday 1-5pm, Monday-Thursday 10am-7pm, Friday 10am-6pm and Saturday 10am-5pm.

For more information on the library’s services, policies, programs or upcoming events visit their website at library.cityoftyler.org.

Events

Through September 7th - Leonardo Da Vinci: Machines in Motion - The Center for Earth and Space Science Education at Tyler Junior College (CESSE) and Discovery Science Place (DSP) has collaborated once again on a dual-venue venture, “Leonardo da Vinci: Machines in Saturday, August 9th Motion.” “CESSE and DSP are natural partners in science education in 10am - “Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince,” Rated PG the East Texas area,” Dr. Tom Hooten, director of the CESSE at TJC said.

12:30pm - “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Pt 1,” Rated PG-13 ‘Machines in Motion’ is an internationally acclaimed exhibition offering 3pm - “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Pt 2,” Rated PG-13 forty life-sized, interactive machines from the mind and manuscripts Children and teen reading programs returning in August and of da Vinci. Machines displayed are derived from da Vinci’s drawings.

September include: They have been brought to reality by a team of modern scientist and Toddler Time – Wednesdays at 10:30am beginning August 20th artisans. The Center for Earth & Space Science Education is located at Read Aloud Crowd – Thursdays at 10:30am beginning August 21st 1411 E. Lake St., on the TJC main campus. Hours are 10:30am-5pm Starry Time Story Time – Thursdays at 6pm beginning August 21st Mondays-Saturdays, and 12:30-5pm Sundays. Call (903)510-2312 for Saturday Story Time – The first Saturday of each month at 10:30am more info. Discovery Science Place is located at 308 N. Broadway Ave. September to May Hours are 9am-5pm Mondays-Saturdays, and 1-5pm Sundays. Call Teen Advisory Council – The first Saturday of each month at 1pm (903)533-8011 for more info. For tickets and more information, go to September to May davincisummer.com.

10:30am - “Judy Moody and The Not Bummer Summer,” Rated PG 1:30pm - “Space Buddies,” Rated G 3:30pm - “Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix,” Rated PG-13

FIRE

MOUNTAIN

EGuideMagazine.com • 17

Art Inside the Artist’s Studio:

Arbor Castle Birdhouses Written and Photographed By A. C. Slaughter

Captivating...when you first see an Arbor Castle Birdhouse the Harry Potter theme starts to play somewhere over your head and fireflies appear in your peripheral as you slowly walk towards these marvelous creations, timid and curious, excited like it is Christmas morning.

Majestic and quirky, these fun columns of earth capture your attention and keep you intrigued, wanting for more. Arbor Castle creations surprise each visitor with their perfect design and perfectly intended whimsy. A statue, an art piece, a birdhouse, a place where fairies sleep for the night - as soon as you see them you will want one to be a part of your life.

Joseph and Bobby Hopps, a father and son duo, are the men behind Arbor Castle Birdhouses. Joseph began making Arbor Castle birdhouses fifteen years ago and when you ask him why he makes birdhouses he replies, “Well, I enjoy birds for one thing.

Oh and I like to eat.” Earning a living making birdhouses comes as natural to these gents as putting on shoes. Joseph said he was making birdhouses for a competition when he came across this particular idea. He won the competition with this style of house and people really seemed to like them, so he continued. Joseph has been making Arbor Castle houses since 1999.

Son Bobby says he has been hanging around the shop since he was a young lad. “I’d sneak in there any chance I’d get.”

Watching how things are made is a wise way to inherit a trait.

Bobby has been helping with Arbor Castle since 2005. Now the father-son duo creates together, making Arbor Castle a family affair. Each house is hollowed from a single cedar log. I asked if they hire Paul Bunyan to hollow out the stump but they said no, it is done mechanically by a specialized machine. Joseph’s brother lives here in East Texas. “My brother is instrumental in making all this happen. He is a bit of a mechanical genius and he developed all of the tools to hollow these logs.” Once hollowed out, the trunks are treated, sanded and prepared for any internal additions. Some of the houses are purely aesthetic in that they do not function as an outside birdhouse. They are meant for your buffet table, a corner pedestal or as the center piece for your autumn table. The decorative houses are equipped with LED lights that are specially made to be near natural materials. They do not over heat, making them safe to light up inside the cedar and therefore safe to have in your home.

On the outside, the functional houses look exactly like the decorative ones. Each piece has a roof and a set of stairs, both copper. The staircases wrap up around the outside of the dwellings and decorative leaves, also made of copper, help beautify the logs. Every piece of copper has a decorative patina. The patina on the copper is individual to each piece.

Methods for attaining the patina include a combination of fire, water and time making each piece unique.

The copper on the houses will change colors over time giving you a unique experience for years to come.

Joseph and Bobby

leave as much of the cedar alone as possible when making the houses.

In fact, Red Heart Cedar is one of the reasons Joseph ended up back in East Texas. Dried for a year and a half, the logs are kept at an undisclosed location waiting for the moisture content to go down.

This helps the logs remain sturdy so they won’t break or crack. Knots are left in the wood and become part of the charm.

The pieces are then treated; the cracks are filled with expansion glue and then covered with a strip of copper to make it pretty. Other metals have been used but over time the Hopps have realized that copper is the only way to go. Each birdhouse is now made from only Red Heart Cedar and copper. No other metals or woods are currently used.

Everything from the doors, the hinges, the locks, the leaves, the stairs, everything is handmade. These gentlemen come from a long line of handymen and would have it no other way. “My father has always been an artist,” says Bobby. “When I was little he painted, abstract painted. My grandfather made church furniture for a living. If you’ve ever been in any of the churches, you don’t see hammer marks, no screws and stuff -it looks beautiful where you can close your eyes, touch it and think, oh yeah that’s high quality. Also, my uncle is a master woodsman.” You can see the family traits in the workmanship. The birdhouses are exquisite - handmade with years of love. I am told that over 100 steps are involved in the most basic piece and you can see it. How much time does it take to make one?

There is only a smile from father Joseph when I asked. My guess is that labor is not clocked as you can’t quantify genius.

To add to the charm of the houses, the building where they are located is over 100 years old. Located in Edom, Texas, population 400, the building is a reminiscent of the old days when men sat outside on rockers in the evenings and life moved at the speed of crickets. When you see Edom, you get a sense of history. Arbor Castle helps keep that nostalgia flowing. For those of you who haven’t been there, Edom has a collection of artists all working right there together: potters, jewelers, painters and of course, master woodsmen. Having all this talent in one quaint place makes the trip to Edom all the more worth it.

Shown all over the United States, the duo behind Arbor Castle loves traveling and meeting people who also make fun things. Some of these fun items are on display in their store. The next time you are out towards Edom take a minute and pop into Arbor Castle for a quick glance into the playful world of Joseph and Bobby Hopps and if you are one of the lucky ones, perhaps one of these fine houses will find its way into your home.

Check out Arbor Castle at www.arborcastlebirdhouses.com and see for yourself the magic and mystery behind these wonderful creations.

You can find them at the intersection of FM 279 and FM 314 S in downtown Edom, Texas. Also look for them on Facebook.

Take a day trip out to Edom, it’s only 20 minutes west of Tyler, and share with your family a family business, a family of artists and support your local artisans as they support you.

Until next time, East Texas, stay classy and MAKE ART.

A Charity Art Event Supporting the Children’s Advocacy Center of Smith County Slaughter House Productions presents the

“September Art Show” Participating Artists: Dace Lucia Kidd, Sonia Semone and Amanda Slaughter Saturday, September 6, 2014, 7-9pm @ Cork located at 5201 S. Broadway in Tyler Specialty artist cocktails, live music A portion of the proceeds goes to the Children’s Advocacy Center of Smith County 18 • EGuideMagazine.com

Events

Saturday, August 23rd - East Texas AllStar Showcase will take place downtown Tyler and promises to be a great event. As a part of this event, Artists Nation is teaming up with Outhouse Tickets in creating what is becoming known as the best event of the year, the Artist Nation Avenue. In supporting artists and the making available a space for them to sell their wares, Artist Nation last year offered 20 artist spaces and there was over $6,000 in art sales. This year’s event promises to be even bigger and spots are filling up fast. They are doubling the available spaces offering fifty 10’x10’ uncovered booths. Spaces are $50 and include 2 admission passes to the event. This East Texas AllStar Showcase event is $10 to attend and will be held 6pm-1am downtown Tyler. Separately, the Artists Nation office is located at 719 W Front St., Tyler, www.artistnation.org.

Continuing through October 19th -”Goodnight Rose City” - Goodnight Rose City, inspired by the popular new children’s book published by the Junior League of Tyler, Inc., brings together three distinctive perspectives celebrating the best of our beloved city.

Organized by the Tyler Museum of Art in collaboration with the Junior League, this summer exhibition showcases the fifteen original book illustrations by local artist Lindsay Boone. Framing each illustration, archival photographs showcase the past while original new images by Tyler photojournalist Herb Nygren Jr. observe present day. Drawn together, these pieces highlight themes and locations that make Tyler such a wonderful place to live and work. This exhibition is made possible through a generous loan from the Junior League of Tyler as well as numerous other community partners. Admission is free. Tyler Museum of Art is located at 1300 S. Mahon Ave., Tyler, (903)595-1001, www.tylermuseum.org.

Continuing through November 30th - “A Contemporary Texas: Selections from the Permanent Collection - When the TMA made the decision to form a Permanent Collection, a pronounced emphasis was placed on collecting contemporary Texas art. “Contemporary Texas: Selections from the Permanent Collection” highlights close to 30 stellar works the Museum has acquired over the past few decades – including pieces by Terry Allen, David Bates, Vernon Fisher, Melissa Miller, James Surls and many other contemporary Texas artists. “Contemporary Texas” provides a rare opportunity to view some of the most celebrated works from the TMA’s Permanent Collection together in a single exhibition, offering a glimpse into the Museum’s rich history and its indelible place in the Texas art scene over the past few decades. Admission is free. Tyler Museum of Art is located at 1300 S. Mahon Ave., Tyler, (903)5951001, www.tylermuseum.org.

September 6th - “Cars are Art” Show - The Tyler Museum of Art is getting in gear once again with the call for entries on its Juried “Cars Are Art” 2014 Competition. Vehicle owners may enter their cars in one of eight competition categories: Pre-1940s, 1940s, 1950s, 1960s, 1970s, 1980s, 1990s, and Post-2000. Cars will be judged on overall presentation and aesthetics, not originality or modifications (all doors and engine hoods will be closed). A jury of art professionals will perform the competition judging. The first-place winner in each category will receive an artistically crafted trophy. The entry chosen as the “Cars Are Art” 2014 Best of Show winner will receive the Grand Prize, which includes a unique trophy and special display in the TMA lobby for two weeks following the competition. Registration deadline is August 31st. Entry fee is $100 per vehicle with proceeds benefiting the TMA; price includes lunch and a “Blue-plate Special” party following the awards presentation from 5:30-7:30pm. Best of Show Sponsor for Cars Are Art 2014 is Hibbs-Hallmark & Company. Tents Sponsor is James E. Walker. For information, contact special events coordinator Caleb Bell at (903) 595-1001.

Thursday, August 7th - Cork & Brush - You can paint a masterpiece or just have a blast trying. Cork & Brush is coming to the vineyards on August 7th.

For sign up and more information, go to corkandbrush.com. This months event will be held at Kiepersol Estates, 3933 FM 344 E., Tyler. Cost is $35 which includes your 16x20 canvas. This event starts at 7pm.

Ongoing - The Art of Anatomy Drawing Classes - Artists Nation is happy to present The Art of Anatomy: a bi-monthly live model gathering for artists. Spend two hours every second and fourth Monday of the month capturing the human form, learning from other artist, trying new mediums and keeping your skills in top form. Artists Nation will supply each artist with access to both clothed and nude models. Every second Monday will have a clothed model and every fourth Monday a nude model. Artist will have the opportunity to work on

4 different poses throughout the evening and professional reference photos will be available to purchase for further study. Costume and pose requests will be taken for future gatherings. “The Art of Anatomy” will meet every second and fourth Monday of the month beginning on August 11th from 6-8 pm at the Epiphany Learning Hub, 2210 Three Lakes Parkway, Suite 145, Tyler. Attendance is $25 per person. Preregistration is available online or pay at the door. (If pre-registered please be sure to bring your receipt.)

Please note, we require everyone to be over the age of 18 or have special written parents approval to attend this workshop. Call (903)262-5389 for more info.

Saturday, August 9th - Paint D’Vine Classes by Daniela Matchael at Grounds for Justice - Artist Daniela Matchael will be teaching you to paint a step by step fun painting. Come have some fun with us and enjoy creating your own master piece. Cost is $35 per person and payments can be made the day of the event. A portion will be donated to Refuge of Light www.refugeoflight.org. Grounds for Justice is located at 2318 E. Fifth St., Tyler. You can call (903) 947-2792 for more info.

Thursday, August 14th and Saturday, August 16th

- Tyler Troop 225’s “Paint Your Pets Portrait” Fundraiser will be held 6-9pm. Come paint your best furry friend’s portrait! You can choose to attend any of the following sessions: Thursday night, August 14th from 6-9pm; or Saturday, August 16th from 9am-12 noon and again at 6-9pm. All sessions will be held at Bless Your Art, located at 2614 McDonald Rd., Tyler.

Tickets are $50 each which includes a complimentary drink and art supplies to create your masterpiece. You can also buy tickets at Life With Pets located at 5304 Old Bullard Rd, Tyler; Troop HQ at Natalie Fletcher’s Law Office, 731 S. Vine, Tyler, (903)592-1188; and at Bless Your Art, (903)714-6336. If you don’t have a good photo from which we can sketch your pet, the troop is planning a photo shoot on Saturday morning at Tyler’s Rose Garden, so keep watching the Tyler Troop 225 Facebook page for details.

September 15th-21st - Hunger for Peace: Visual Art Exhibition for the 2014 Art of Peace Festival will be held in Tyler at the Tyler Museum of Art. The Art of Peace Festival Tyler is a week-long celebration of the United Nations International Day of Peace, with artsbased events that promote Compassion, Creativity and Community. The 2014 Art of Peace Festival Tyler will include a documentary film, live music,

poetry, community service, a peace pole dedication, a peace meal, an outdoor peace mural, a peace vigil, peace- based worship and a peace-themed visual art exhibit. Each year the Art of Peace Festival Tyler selects a community organization to showcase and support; the 2014 festival honoree is the East Texas Food Bank. The 2014 visual art show, themed, “Hunger for Peace” is presented in partnership with the Tyler Museum of Art. Juried art in response to the theme will be displayed in the Tyler Museum of Art in Tyler, during the week of the festival. A reception for artists will be held at the museum, on the evening of Thursday, September 18th at 7 pm. For more information about Art of Peace Festival Tyler, see their website at www.TylerPeace.com, www.facebook.com/ artofpeacetyler, or email artofpeaceart@gmail.com.

Saturday, September 6th - Slaughter House Productions presents the September Art Show with participating artist Dace Lucia Kidd, Sonia Semone and Amanda Slaughter. This will take place at Cork, 5201 S Broadway Ave, Tyler, from 7-9pm. This is a charity event supporting Children’s Advocacy Center of Smith County with a portion of the proceeds going to CACSM. For more info call (903)941-3253.

EGuideMagazine.com • 19

Theatre

Events

Beginning of a New Chapter in Entertaining, Enriching and Educating through Theatre Written and Photographed By Barbara King Tyler’s local, volunteer-driven community theatre recently celebrated a huge milestone - 65 seasons of bringing tears and laughter to the stage. For Tyler Civic Theatre it’s just the beginning of a new chapter in entertaining, enriching and educating through theatre.

“It was a monumental anniversary,” explains DeAnna Hargrove, Managing Director. “We are entering an exciting time of rejuvenation in Tyler’s artistic community and we have a plethora of new talent and volunteers driving this exciting phase in the theatre’s growth.”

From its humble beginnings as Tyler Little Theatre in 1927, with stage productions performed at Tyler High School and The Woman’s Building, residents have always supported the love of local theatre.

Under the creative eye of resident director Al Gilliam, the vision grew to become the two -stage regional showcase it is today, home to much loved musicals, classic comedies and new works. The Tyler Civic Theatre Center is comprised of the Roger’s Children’s Theatre and the Braithwaite Theatre, which can accommodate an audience of 350. The theatre still boasts the distinction of being the longest continually operated Theatre-in-the-Round in the nation.

I stepped inside the theatre into a beehive of activity recently; costumes were being readied for the current summer musical production of “Hairspray” and summer classes are in full swing. The highly acclaimed Summer Theatre Arts Review (S.T.A.R.) is a comprehensive drama camp experience for both beginners and experienced actors, from preschool to high school ages. Camps combine rehearsal, learning and games, along with specialized camps offered in stage combat and musical theatre.

“When you become involved with TCT and you begin to learn all facets of the theatre from stage management, to make-up, to performance, you keep wanting to give back”, explains guest director, Justin Purser.

At 21, Justin has been involved in the theatre for over ten years, beginning as a shy home-schooler, to mentoring and teaching his craft to children. He’s run the gamut of roles from performing, teaching, directing and is currently serving on the Education Committee.

“Tyler is becoming more and more of an outlet for creativity,” says Purser “and TCT is providing a new and fresh perspective and an exciting avenue for people to express themselves.”

The theatre has taken on a new, intentional philosophy of growth, looking towards greater diversity, both within their audiences, their production choices and their performers. “We are constantly striving to present fresh, dynamic new works,” explains Hargrove, “yet at the same time, preserving some of the tried and true productions that we honor and that our audiences love and appreciate.” The theatre has seen a shift in demographics, now attracting more families and a younger theatre-going crowd.

TCT has tweaked and re-defined their offerings for the upcoming season, with both an entertainment and enrichment series. Patrons won’t find it hard to find something they will enjoy, with selections from classic comedies (“Harvey”) to holiday comedies (“A Tuna Christmas”) to a whodunit musical based on the famous board game, Clue. Hargrove summarizes the series as “reflective and nostalgic, with a balance of tried and true, with some new thrown in too.”

The enrichment series, which is for and by youth, will feature the extravagantly costumed Kipling classic “Jungle Book,” the literary adventure, “Treasure Island” and the darker “Elephant Man.” This series will combine a mix of fantasy, literacy and history.

Another noticeable change in the theatre is taking place behind the scenes. “We have opened up the opportunity for more guest directorial spots which brings new vision and dynamics to the productions,” says Hargrove. “That makes us a more welcoming community and we are enjoying collaborations and sharing talent with other local theatres.”

20 • EGuideMagazine.com

Education in the arts is a primary element of the theatre’s mission, and it is fulfilled through a variety of learning opportunities.

The Acting Conservatory provides comprehensive training experiences in auditioning, dialect coaching, mime and stage movement.

Beginning with “Bloomers” which are classes for the small ones ages 5-8, the budding actors learn and grow through exposure to games, music, children’s literature and role-playing.

Home schoolers have their own tailored program, concluding with dramatic presentations for families and friends. Act I, for grades 3-6, teaches skills in auditioning and play production through creative group collaborations and monologues. Musical theatre is showcased in Act II, for grades 5 through 10, exploring the exciting art of song and dance. Participants get to shine in the end of the semester musical.

Fancy yourself as the next Marcel Marceau? Join the improv class and learn to react in character, think on your feet and communicate through mime and movement. Details are on their website.

The theatre’s heart and soul are it’s volunteers, and every production is a team effort. Lots of hands are needed behind the scenes as well as actors, dancers, singers and musicians, according to each individual production. The Board of Directors is a very active group of volunteers, involved in everything from play reading to fundraising.

A new twist to the theatre’s offerings is the facility itself as an alternative venue for weddings and special events.

The Center now also offers descriptive theatre for the blind, with four available headsets.

“Our goal is to provide the avenues for our theatrical community to think, feel, reach and stretch,” sums up Hargrove. We want our students to be able to say, ‘I’m excited to have the goal to audition, or direct or act.’ It’s within my reach.”

To learn more about this vibrant theatre community, (auditions, tickets, sponsorship opportunities) go to www.tylercivictheatre.com or call (903)592-0561. The Tyler Civic Theatre Center is located at 400 Rose Park Drive, next to the Rose Garden.

August 1st-2nd - “Singleton Boulevard, a play by Gary Don Martin,” will be in production at 7:30pm at APEX Theatre. Set in summer of 1963 in Dallas, just three months before the assassination of John F. Kennedy rocked the nation. The residents of Singleton Boulevard beat the summer heat and escape the drab streets at the domino tables and bar stools of Slack Morgan’s Bar. Once a prize fighter, Slack Morgan tends his bar and lends a listening ear to his patrons. This production stars Matthew Greer as Slack Morgan.

Tickets are $20. Student Rush tickets are available at 7:25pm for $10 if seating allows. APEX Theatre 20 is located at 719 W. Front St., Tyler.

Please use the Potter Place entrance in the back. For more information or tickets please visit www.apextheatre20.com.

August 1st-2nd - “South Pacific” will be presented at Lake Country Playhouse in Mineola, starting nightly at 7:30pm. The magic of “South Pacific” seems eternal. Based on several stories from James A. Michener’s Pulitzer Prize-winning “Tales of the South Pacific,” the musical focuses on an island-based World War II American nurse.

She falls in love with a plantation owner who has mixed-race children. Another romance also tackles the issue of prejudice, as a U.S. lieutenant agonizes over the potential stigma that could come from marrying his Asian girlfriend. With songs by Richard Rodgers, lyrics

by Oscar Hammerstein II, book by Hammerstein and Joshua Logan, the musical premiered on Broadway in 1949 and ran for nearly 2,000 performances. It earned 10 Tony Awards. Successful movie and TV adaptations were produced. Thanks to such enduring tunes as “Some Enchanted Evening” and “Bali Ha’i,” the 2008 Broadway revival was also a hit, capturing seven Tonys. Lake Country Playhouse is located at 114 North Johnson St. in Mineola. For more information call (903)569-2300 or log on to lakecountryplayhouse.com. Playhouse tickets are $15-20 depending on production.

August 1st-2nd (7:30pm) and August 3rd (2:00pm) - “The Mystery of Edwin Drood” will start this years festival. This is a huge and hilarious production plus this Charles Dickens story was never finished.

Dickens died before he could complete the manuscript. The play is set in London in the 1870’s. The story is filled with richly written lusty characters. Dickens never revealed the ending, who the romantic couple were, or the identity of the murderer. As an audience member, you finish the story Charles Dickens didn’t live to complete. It’s the only show in town that ends differently every night, depending on what the audience decides. The cast must be ready to finish the play in any of the possible configurations. To make the production even more complex, this play-within-a-play is typically performed with the audience seated in the set. As you enter, you are entering an 1870s music hall. There is a three-level stage that includes an elevated “royal box”, a graveyard, an opium den, and several street and interior scenes of 1800s England. Laugh, scream, and be entranced by the music and dancing. The Summer Theatre and Country Music Festival takes place for 24 days, July 25th-August 17th. “The Throwaway Children World Premiere of the Original Play by Sara Whitaker” will be onstage August 15th, 16th and 17th. The Sounds International Country Music Concerts will take place all during the festival with over 12 featured artists. The schedule is: • Thursday, August 7th at 7pm - Jillian Kohr from Nashville, Tennessee and Daniel Foster from Longview, Texas • Saturday, August 9th at 7pm - Loveflowers from Sweden • Wednesday, August 13th at 7pm - Laurie Lace Band from Denton • Thursday, August 14th at 7pm - Jenna McDaniel from Temple, Texas and Britta T. from Switzerland • Friday, August 15th at 9pm - Mac Young and Chrissie Rossouw from South Africa • Saturday, August 16th at 7pm - Sarah Lucy Dole from the UK and East Texas from Australia • Sunday, August 17th at 7pm - Karen Lee Batten from Canada and an Awards Presentation with guest presenters and music artists East Texas Performing Arts is located at 115 E. Austin St.in Jefferson.

Sometimes productions are held in different locations. For more info or tickets call (847)722-8798 or log on at easttexasperformingarts.org.

August 1st-3rd - “Shrek The Musical” will be on stage at Texas Theatre in Palestine starting at 7:30pm Friday and Saturday and 2pm on Sunday. “Shrek The Musical,” based on the Oscar winning Dreamworks Animation film that started it all, brings the hilarious story of everyone’s favorite ogre to dazzling new life on stage. This Tony Award-winning stage musical has swept the world with its magic.

Featuring all new songs from Jeanine Tesori (“Thoroughly Modern Millie,” “Caroline or Change”) and a side-splitting book by David Lindsay-Abaire as well as the cult Shrek anthem “I’m a Believer,” “Shrek The Musical” brings all the much-loved characters to life, live on stage, in the show that proves there’s more to the story than meets the ears. “Once upon a time, there was a little ogre named Shrek…”

And thus begins the fairy tale of an unlikely hero who finds himself on a life-changing journey alongside a wise cracking Donkey and a feisty princess who resists her rescue. Throw in a short tempered bad guy, a cookie with an attitude and over a dozen other fairy tale misfits, and you’ve got the kind of mess that calls for a real hero. Luckily, there’s one on hand...and his name is Shrek. This musical brings a story of adventure, friendship and ogre love that’s bringing ugly back. With its irreverent fun for the whole family, audience will delight in seeing all of their favorite characters from the movie come to life and leave the theatre cheering for more. Tickets are $12 for adults and $8 for children ages 4-18. The Palestine Community Theatre is located at 213 West Crawford, Palestine. For tickets go to www.thetexastheater.com.

Tickets may be purchased online at www.outhouseticket.com.

August 7th, 8th, 9th, 14th, 15th, 16th (7:30pm) and August 10th (2pm) - “Once Upon a Mattress” will be in production at Henderson County Performing Art Center in Athens. Due to an unhappy curse, King Sextimus is unable to speak. Meanwhile, his terror of a wife, Queen Aggravian, has taken over control of the kingdom. Most importantly, in an attempt to keep Prince Dauntless single, she has decreed that only the princess that can pass her test may marry her

son. Further, no one else in the kingdom may marry until Prince Dauntless does. Lady Larken and Sir Harry are extremely disturbed by this fact since Lady Larken is now pregnant with Sir Harry’s baby.

Luckily, Sir Harry is able to find an amazing princess, Winnifred the Woebegone. She instantly catches the attention of Prince Dauntless, and in the end, is able to pass the Queen’s supposedly impassable sensitivity test. When the Queen still tries to prevent the Prince Dauntless from marrying, he tells her to ‘shut up’ which ends up breaking the curse on the king. Now able to speak, King Sextimus regains his rightful position as leader of the kingdom, and all is well. Henderson County Performing Arts Center is located at 400 Gibson Rd. in Athens. Tickets are available at the door, by calling (903)675-3908 or at www.hcpac.org.

August 15th-16th, August 20th-23rd - “Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike,” a play by Christopher Durang will show nightly at 7:30pm at APEX Theatre. Nominated for 6 Tony Awards and winner of the Tony for Best Play, “Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike” tells the story of middle-aged siblings Vanya and Sonia who share a home in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, where they bicker and complain about the circumstances of their lives.

Suddenly, their movie-star sister, Masha, swoops in with her new boy toy, Spike. Old resentments flare up, eventually leading to threats to sell the house.

Also on the scene are sassy maid Cassandra, who can predict the future, and a lovely young aspiring actress named Nina, whose prettiness somewhat worries the imperious Masha. In press this production has been described as: “…riotous…the show’s a ton of fun even if you can’t tell your Seagull from your Uncle Vanya…this is the kind of full-on comedy that’s sadly rare on Broadway.” —NY Post. “…deliriously funny…a heedless good time.” —NY Times. “Hugely entertaining…few contemporary playwrights have proven as deft as Durang at mining both the absurdity and the dangers of human folly…in its own deliciously madcap way, the new work offers some keen insights into the challenges and agonies of twenty-first-century life.” —USA Today. The show is in two acts with one 20 minute intermission. Tickets are $20. Student rush tickets are available at 7:25pm for $10 if seating allows.

APEX Theatre 20 is located at 719 W. Front St., Tyler. Please use the Potter Place entrance in the back. For more information or tickets please visit www.apextheatre20.com.

Friday, August 22nd - The Digital Age will be in concert at Belcher Center starting at 7pm. The long, strange trip that saw four core members of the David Crowder Band become The Digital Age has yielded one stunning testament to multi-dimensional faith: faith in the music, faith expressed through the music and faith the musicians had in each other. As guitarist/vocalist Mark Waldrop notes: “It’s equal parts old and equal parts new. As a band playing together for so many years, we know each other as people, musicians and songwriters. With The Digital Age, it all felt very natural, but losing a violinist and acoustic guitarist changed us, so we decided to press on and continue to innovate our sound.” “The Digital Age mission picks up where we left off,” Waldrop says.

“It’s alternative rock that’s compelling lyrically and musically, and we’re still obsessed with the concept record. So we’re carrying over what we did before.

This is all we know - to write together and work together. It feels new, but a lot of it is a carry over; it’s not too, too huge a departure.” Belcher Performance Center at LeTourneau University is located at 2100 S. Mobberly, Longview. For more info call (903)2333080 or log on at www.belchercenter.com. Box Office hours are Monday-Friday, 10am-5pm.

September 4th-6th - “Second Stage: Medea, adapted

by Denise Weatherly-Green” will be on stage at Jean Brown Theatre at TJC at 7:30pm. Admission is free.

Tyler Jr. College Jean Browne Theatre is located on the TJC campus. For more info call (903)510-2212. For production info go to www.tjc.edu.

September 5th, 6th, 7th, 11th, 12th, 13th and 14th - “Harvey” opens at the Tyler Civic Theatre with Thursday-Saturday performances at 7:30pm and Sunday matinees at 2:30pm. “Harvey” is a 1944 play by the American playwright Mary Chase. Chase received the Pulitzer Prize for Drama for the work in 1945. It has been adapted for film and television several times, most notably in a 1950 film starring James Stewart. Elwood P. Dowd is an affable man who claims to have an unseen (and presumably imaginary) friend Harvey - whom Elwood describes as a six-foot, three-and-one-half-inch tall pooka resembling an anthropomorphic rabbit. Elwood introduces Harvey to everyone he meets. His socialclimbing sister, Veta, increasingly finds his eccentric behavior embarrassing. She decides to have him committed to a sanitarium to spare her and her daughter Myrtle Mae from future embarrassment.

When they arrive at the sanitarium, a comedy of

errors ensues. The young, handsome, and very flirtatious Dr. Sanderson commits Veta instead of Elwood, but when the truth comes out the search is on for Elwood and his invisible companion. When Elwood shows up at the sanitarium looking for his lost friend Harvey, it seems that the mild-mannered Elwood’s delusion has had a strange influence on the staff, including sanitarium director Dr. Chumley.

Only just before Elwood is to be given an injection that will make him into a “perfectly normal human being, does Veta realize that she’d rather have Elwood the same as he’s always been - carefree and kind - even if it means living with Harvey.

Tyler Civic Theatre is located 400 Rose Park Drive in Tyler, next to the Tyler Rose Garden Center. For more info call (903)592-0561 or go online to tylercivictheatre.com. The Box Office is open Monday - Friday, 10am - 1pm and 2pm - 5pm. Tickets are $18 for adults and $15 for students.

September 12th-13th - “Studio 103 Reading Series: Calling the Shots” by Christopher Collins will be presented at TJC in FA 103. It is open to the public to attend. For more info call (903)510-2212. For production info go to www.tjc.edu.

Saturday, September 13th - Larry the Cable Guy will be on stage at Cowan Center, Tyler at 7:30pm.

This is the opening production for the 2014-2015 season. The lovable Larry the Cable Guy will fit right in here in the heart of East Texas with his down home humor to open the 18th Cowan Center Season. Let’s “Git-R-Done” folks with Larry the Cable Guy! Larry’s road to stardom began with the “Blue Collar Comedy Tour” featuring Jeff Foxworthy and Bill Engvall (both of whom have already brought laughs to the Cowan Center). Larry then went on to host numerous specials for Comedy Central including “Tailgate Party” and “The Comedy Central Roast of Larry the Cable Guy,” plus various specials for VH1 and CMT networks. While his stand-up and hosting chops always provoke uncontrolled hilarity, he is also known as the beloved voice of Mater in the Golden Globe winning animated feature film “Cars” and “Cars 2” from Disney/Pixar.

Current host of “Only in America,” on the History Channel, Larry the Cable Guy visits various sites across the country revealing bits of history while immersing himself in different lifestyles, jobs and hobbies that celebrate the American experience.

Larry also started the Git-R-Done Foundation, emphasizing philanthropy for children’s and veteran’s causes. This show will have adult humor and language, and is not appropriate for children and some adults. Tickets are very limited. Cowan Center is located at 3900 University Blvd. on the UT Tyler campus. Tickets are available at the Box Office, or by calling (903)566-7424 or online at uttyler.edu/ cowan. Tickets start at $37.

Tuesday, September 16th - UT Tyler to Host Justice Clarence Thomas - United States Supreme Court Associate Justice Clarence Thomas will be the featured speaker at The University of Texas at Tyler R. Don Cowan Fine and Performing Arts Center on Tuesday, September 16th. Sponsored by Drs. Lawrence L. Anderson and Svetislava J. Vukelja and Rod and Merle Mabry/UT Tyler, Justice Thomas will be the first speaker of the 2014 – 15 UT Tyler Distinguished Lecture Series. The lecture will begin at 7:30pm. President George H. W. Bush nominated him as an associate justice of the Supreme Court, and he took his seat October 23, 1991. Cowan Center is located at 3900 University Blvd. on the UT Tyler campus. Tickets are available at the Box Office, or by calling (903)566-7424 or online at uttyler.edu/ cowan. Tickets start at $22.

September 19th-21st, 26th-29th - “Elephant’s Graveyard” will be on stage at Henderson Civic Theatre in Henderson. This play “takes place in September and there was a town and there was a circus and there was a railroad and there was a man with red hair and there was an elephant.” “Elephant’s Graveyard” is the true tale of the tragic collision of a struggling circus and a tiny town in Tennessee, which resulted in the only known lynching of an elephant.

Set in September of 1916, the play combines historical fact and legend, exploring the deep-seated American craving for spectacle, violence and revenge. ”The script is, like the best art, microscopically specific with echoes that radiate outward across time.

It conjures a world with its own atmosphere and terrible internal logic. It’s mesmerizing...symphonic in its emotional variations on a tragic theme. “Elephant’s Graveyard” buzzes with truth about the consequences of misunderstanding, the invisible but enormous gap between artists and their audiences, and the infernal beauty of vaudeville.” –The Stranger, Seattle.

Henderson Civic Theatre is located at 122 E. Main St. in Henderson. For information call (903)657-2968 or www.hctonline.org. The theatre is located on Heritage Square in downtown Henderson, a National Register Historic District, in the original Opera House which was built in 1885.

EGuideMagazine.com • 21

Books

A Few Book Reviews for Those Hot Summer Nights

By Gini Rainey

“Etched in Sand” is one of the most inspiring, emotional and intelligently written books that I’ve read in a long time. It sheds a light on the force of the human spirit and the instinct to not give up. It shines a spotlight on the foster care system and how it has failed so many children and young adults in our nation, and it gives hope that perhaps one day there will be changes made so that other children will not have to suffer the atrocities that these children did.

Rating: 5 of 5; Copyright 2013 – HarperCollins Publishers “Don’t Try to Find Me: A Novel” by Holly Brown

This novel, written by Holly Brown, a practicing marriage and family therapist in the San Francisco Bay area, explores the dynamAlthough Liane Moriarty is ics of a family whose daughter probably forever doomed to be just vanishes one day after being labeled as a “chick lit” writer, “The dropped off at school.

Husband’s Secret” is a book that Written from a double perspeccan be an enjoyable read for both tive – the mother’s and the daughguys and gals. Even though this ter’s – this book explores the events book is set in present day Australeading up to and following the lia (Melbourne and Sydney), the daughter’s attempt at running away many references to Tupperware from her family and its problems. parties, PTA bake sales and ‘Susie Not knowing if Marley went Homemaker’ skills almost makes missing intentionally or was kidyou think that we are back in the napped, Rachel and Paul launch ‘50s again. a nationwide campaign to enlist Beginning with stories about the help of the public to locate their daughter. As the story develops, three different families, it isn’t long before Moriarty starts to weave the characters into a tightly knit it becomes apparent that not only was their relationship with their group that unknowingly share a dark secret. The three families are all daughter flawed, but the very core of their marriage was filled with experiencing upheavals in their lives, but they are nothing compared lies and secrets.

Although a novel, the underlying causes for Marley’s run-away to the secret that one of the husbands has been keeping for years. are not at all far from the truth. Scary as it may seem for the parAlthough it took some time to wade through the first few chapters, ents of young teenage girls, the possibility of situations similar to the once I got the players straight, I found it difficult to put this book ones faced by Rachel and Paul is just as close as the nearest internet down. connection.

Brilliantly written, Moriarty spends a great deal of time creatThe message in this book is loud and clear: you can never moniing characters and everyday situations with which the reader can tor your children’s activities closely enough. easily identify. Because of her understanding of the complexities of As helpful as social media turned out to be in finding their daughlong-term marriages, “…marriage is made of lies, deceit, envy, rage, ter, it also the very vehicle that enabled the relationship between jealousy, anger, vengeance, and the ability to plod ever onward,” she Marleywas and her online friend to grow into something that she just was able to make the characterizations and situations even more wasn’t mature enough to handle. believable.

This book was impossible for me to put down and had me Because of her consummate writing skills, Moriarty was able to devouring chapter after chapter to determine what secrets were being wind her way through a minefield of moral ambiguity as her story kept by all parties concerned. explores the very personal implications of choosing between right If you or your friends have an impressionable child, this book and wrong. Without giving a ‘spoiler alert’ warning, there really isn’t should be a “must read” for all of you. much that can be said about the actual storyline of “The Husband’s Bottom line?

Secret,” as the whole fabric of the book consists of the underlying The internet is a wonderful tool, but its use by our children needs cause and revelation of said secret. to be monitored, cautiously and wisely.

That being said, if you would like to pick up a great vacation Rating: 5 of 5; Copyright 2014 – HarperCollins Publishers book with more plot twists and turns than a country road, I would “Bikinis In Paradise” recommend “The Husband’s Secret” wholeheartedly. After all, you

by Kathi Daley don’t get a New York Times #1 Best Seller designation for your book Finally I’ve read a book that unless you’ve done something great – and that’s exactly what Liane has no merits whatsoever, other Moriarty has done with her fifth novel. than it was a .99 cent Kindle You can be sure I’m going to read her first four after having disdownload! I chose this book covered this great author! because it’s summer and, based Rating: 5 of 5; Copyright 2013 – G. P. Putnam’s Sons on the title, thought it might “Etched in Sand” by Regina make a great beach book. I’ve Calcaterra tried to read this book to the end, Regina Calcaterra opens up thinking that somehow, someher life and her heart to her readwhere it will finally get better. I ers in this true story about herself was wrong. Apparently this book and her four siblings who suris the third in a series of mysteries vived their unspeakable childby Daley. The only mystery to me hood and the nightmares of being is how this author has been able neglected children on Long Island. to write this stuff AND sell it!

Calcaterra, who is now a successSet at a resort located on a ful lawyer, New York State official, mountain lake outside of Reno, and activist, recounts the painful Nevada (can you say Lake life that she and her four siblings Tahoe?), the premise of the book involves a gathering of long-legged survived only to be faced with the models from across the country for a competition being held by the challenges of the foster-care system Tropical Tan Corporation. Interestingly enough, someone is bumpand intermittent homelessness in ing off the models and their bodies are littering up the beach front. the shadows of Manhattan and the Well, maybe that was put a little unkindly, but that’s basically what’s Hamptons. going on.

Living a life that few of us can With the town’s deputy sheriff out of the office, the assistant depimagine living, Calcaterra and her siblings were able to survive the uty sheriff asks the resort manager for her help in figuring out “who absolutely horrific circumstances of their childhoods. Although not dun it,” and she uses her super sleuth detective skills while juggling unscathed by their experiences, the five children were able to arrive the bikini contest, a BBQ, and running the resort. Oh, and did I mensuccessfully on this side of their abuse and remain close-knit and pro- tion getting a little romance in on the side? ductive adults.

I wish I could suggest you run right out and buy this book or This is not a read for the faint of heart or someone looking for download an e-copy, but I can’t. I wanted to like the book and I something light and entertaining. This book gets down to the reality tried, but like I said, after reading 51% of it, I gave up. Maybe I just of being an abused and neglected child, whose only ‘present’ parent is haven’t read enough Harlequin Romances in my life to think that this a mentally ill, alcoholic drug addict and who puts her children’s safety kind of writing is for me. That being said, if you do enjoy Harlequin and well-being at the bottom of her list of priorities. Fortunately, her Romances, this book might be for you, but don’t say I didn’t warn you. five children were fairly self-sufficient and able to develop the skills Rating: 1 of 5 stars ( I gave it 1 star because of the price); Copynecessary to survive in a system that is broken at best. right 2014 – CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform This book is definitely about the strength of the human spirit, Book Events and the courage and love that Regina still has in her heart and soul in order to be able to tell her intense and horrific story with wisdom, Sunday, August 3rd - Did you know that Tyler now has a venue for love and compassion. It is heart wrenching and very intense. It’s not Spoken Word Artists? Artists Nation has created the Tyler Spoken easy to read this story, but it is a very important story to read if you Word Event and it takes place every first Sunday of the month with have any compassion at all for the homeless and abused at large, and partners, APEX Theatre 20 (Actors Preparatory Exchange). This is the homeless and abused children, specifically, because they do exist open to all and will feature poetry, prose, short story, comedic pieces, - everywhere. diatribes, rants, and just about any type of spoken word you could The most important person in Regina’s early, formative years was imagine. It is a very laid back, no pressure atmosphere and everyone a teacher who gave her the best advice possible – never stop learnis welcome to participate. Admission is $5 unless you are reading or ing. It was because of her hunger for education that she was able to performing. This will be held 6-8pm at Actors Preparatory Exchange rise above the rubble of their lives, finish high school, go to college, (rear entrance), 719 West Front St., Suite 20, Tyler. For more info call become a lawyer and an advocate for the abused and forgotten.

(903)883-6288.

22 • EGuideMagazine.com “The Husband’s Secret”

by Liane Moriarty

Monday, August 11th - East Texas Writer’s Guild General Meeting takes place the second Monday every month. The cost is free to attend and it starts at 6:30pm. This months meeting will be held at Tyler Chamber of Commerce, 315 N Broadway Ave, downtown Tyler.

Jayne Morrow, whose speciality is inspirational romance, will help us learn how to Forget the Fluff in our writing. Call (903)534-0655 with questions or go online at www.etwritersguild.org.

Sunday, August 3rd- B.U.N.S. Book Group meets the first Sunday of the month at 3pm. This is hosted by Nelson Clyde from the Tyler Morning Telegraph. Anyone is welcome to join. This is held at Barnes & Noble Booksellers, 4916 South Broadway, Tyler, (903)534-3996.

Deadline of August 1st - Call for Poetry: Hunger For Peace Festival - The world hungers for peace, even as millions of its people hunger for food. As poets, we are called to speak truth, offer hope and create beauty. As peacemakers, we are called to show compassion, empower change and seek justice. In cooperation with the 2014 Art of Peace Festival in Tyler, InSpiritry is publishing a collection of inspiring poems on peace, social justice and food security to be called, “Hunger for Peace.” Poet Anne McCrady will choose the poems and edit the anthology. Proceeds from the sale of the poetry collection during the week-long festival will benefit the East Texas Food Bank. Submitted poems should be 28 lines or less, in Times New Roman 12 point font. Each poet may submit one poem with contact information on the top of the page. Poems can be previously published, if acknowledgements are sent. Included poets will receive a complimentary copy of the collection. Deadline is August 1st and anyone can enter.

There is no fee for entering. For more information please send an email to annemccrady@inspiritry.com or inspiritry.com. Festival information is at tylerpeace.com.

Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce Hosts Its Annual Children’s Back-to-School Fair: Held August 5th Jacksonville

The Back-to-School Fair’s 9th annual event will be Tuesday, August 5th, from 4-7pm at the Norman Activity Center. Each student will receive Jacksonville ISD standardized clothing and a backpack with school supplies for the upcoming school year. Students must be present and enrolled in Jacksonville ISD. This year’s exhibitors include a puppet show, karate demonstration, Jacksonville Police Department and Citizen Police Academy Alumni, Access, Jacksonville Public Library, Cherokee County Public Health, H.O.P.E., JISD, Central Baptist Church and “Small Town Kids Magazine.”

This event was created to assist children and their families begin their school year in a positive way. It would not be possible without the volunteers and the generous donations by Phil & Liz Caron, Mary Woolery, Mark Tang, Kris & Mark Sturrock, Judy Terry, Access, Jacksonville Kiwanis Club, Jacksonville Rotary Club, Jacksonville Lions Club, H.O.P.E., Inc., Bonner Street Plaza, Southside Bank, Citizen’s 1st Bank, Jacksonville Daily Progress, Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church and Central Baptist Church.

For information contact (903)586-2217.

“#SchoolisCool” Back to School Event To Take Place at Harvey Hall A “#SchoolisCool” back to school event is scheduled for Thurs-

day, August 14 from 5-8 p.m. at Harvey Hall for children and their parents to prepare for the new school year. This is a free event for students in PreK-12.

Presented by the City of Tyler, Northeast Public Health District, Brookshires, the Business Education Council, Tyler Independent School District and Tyler Council PTA, the event will feature: • Free health screenings • Immunizations (call for details) • A school uniform fashion show by Goodwill • Presentations by the Tyler Fire and Police Departments • Fingerprinting • Dental screenings and education • Health and wellness information • Nutrition activities • Local after school programs • Extracurricular activities • College prep • Help applying for school lunch programs and transportation • And much more!

For more information, call (903)592-1661 ext. 252 or go to www.SchoolisCoolTyler.com. #SchoolisCool is an outcome of the City of Tyler comprehensive plan, Tyler 1st. For more on the plan visit www.Tyler1st.com.

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