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RAY WYLIE HUBBARD PAGE 14
THE DIVAS
PAGE 18 ON THE ROCKS WITH CAMILLE SANCHEZ 1 YEAR ANNIVERSARY FOR HOUSE OF FIFI DUBOIS
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SAN ANGELO SPOTLIGHT
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MAY 2011
MAY
1 Sunday
Play It Again Concert, 2pm @ the San Angelo Museum of Fine Arts – West Texas Jazz Orchestra led by Jim Bode Jazz, big band and dance tunes. FMI 325-653-3333
4 Wednesday
5 Thursday
6 Friday
Stories and Songs for Preschoolers 10am10:30am @ Tom Green County Main Library, 113 West Beauregard
Art Thursday, 2pm-6pm @ the Museum of Fine Arts – In the Education Studio Art activities for children and their families. FREE Cinco De Mayo Celebration, 2:15pm-2:45pm @ the Sunset Mall. True Blue ASU: ASU Student Government Association is launching a campaign to have San Angelo community members wear ASU blue on Fridays and during ASU events.
Make it for Mom Free Craft Session, 3pm-5pm @ the Sunset Mall by the children’s play area. Come and go as long as supplies last.
7 Saturday
Fort Chadbourne Days Living History Event, 9am-4:30pm Hayrides, Buffalo, tractors, artillery, cavalry, cowboys, live entertainment, food and more. FREE admission FMI 325-743-2555
1st Saturday at the Old Chicken Farm Art Center The first Saturday of each month is a special treat at the Art Center. We feature work of special invited artists plus all of the art center artist’s studios are open for visitors. Located at 2505 Martin Luther King Blvd. - FMI call 325-6534936 Greater San Angelo Crafts Guild, 10am-5pm @ the Wells Fargo Pavilion – Texas handcrafted Items – FREE Simply Texas Blues Festival, 9am-6pm @ Oaks Street/Downtown – Bands, Solo/duo acts will compete for sponsorships at the International Blues Challenge in Memphis – FREE FMI 325-949-5552 or www.sanangelobluessociety.com Military Appreciation Day at the Depot, 10am-4pm @ 703 South Chadbourne – The Railway Museum of San Angelo invites all activeduty service members, retirees, and their dependents to enjoy free
admission, food and snacks, children’s activities and live music. FMI 325486-2140
8 Sunday
10 Tuesday
Greater San Angelo Crafts Guild, 12pm-5pm @ the Wells Fargo Pavillion – Texas handcrafted Items – FREE Story Time for Preschoolers 10am @ Tom Green County Library Angelo West Branch, 3013 Vista Del Arroyo CHS Choir Concert, 8pm @ Holy Angel’s Catholic Church on A&M Avenue.
11 Wednesday
Stories and Songs for Preschoolers 10am10:30am @ Tom Green County Main Library, 113 W. Beauregard
Day Out With ThomasThomas Saves the Day , 7pm-8:30pm @ The San Angelo Coliseum. Through discovery, friendship and cooperation, Thomas finds a way to save the day and the festival goes on as scheduled. On Stage offers Thomas enthusiast and families an exciting and fresh way to experience the brand. Buy tickets at www.sanangelotexas.us
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MAY 2011
Mister Roberts, 8pm @ Angelo Civic Theatre - Lt. Douglas Roberts has long served the bored, unhappy crewmen of a navy cargo ship as a buffer between themselves and the cantankerous, unsympathetic Captain Morton who seems more interested in his palm tree than in his men..... Based on Heggen's novel.
15 Sunday
Children’s Friendship Songfest, 1pm-4pm @ The River stage – Geared to promote friendship and keeping San Angelo beautiful, Kids of all ages, FMI 325-9426757
18 Wednesday
19 Thursday
Stories and Songs for Preschoolers 10am10:30am @ Tom Green County Main Library, 113 West Beauregard
Downtown Artwalk, 6pm-9pm @ the San Angelo Museum of Fine Arts and downtown participating galleries and merchants. Free admission to the Museum including refreshments, entertainment, and a make and take art activity for children.
Mister Roberts, 8pm @ Angelo Civic Theatre - Lt. Douglas Roberts has long served the bored, unhappy crewmen of a navy cargo ship as a buffer between themselves and the cantankerous, unsympathetic Captain Morton who seems more interested in his palm tree than in his men..... Based on Heggen's novel
20 Friday
True Blue ASU: ASU Student Government Association is launching a campaign to have San Angelo community members wear ASU blue on Fridays and during ASU events.
Evening of Dance, 7pm @ The River Stage – A night filled with music, dance and al fresco dining under the stars. FMI 325-653-8877 Mister Roberts, 8pm @ Angelo Civic Theatre - Lt. Douglas Roberts has long served the bored, unhappy crewmen of a navy cargo ship as a buffer between themselves and the cantankerous, unsympathetic Captain Morton who seems more interested in his palm tree than in his men..... Based on Heggen's novel
21 13 Friday
True Blue ASU: ASU Student Government Association is launching a campaign to have San Angelo community members wear ASU blue on Fridays and during ASU events.
Mister Roberts, 8pm @ Angelo Civic Theatre - Lt. Douglas Roberts has long served the bored, unhappy crewmen of a navy cargo ship as a buffer between themselves and the cantankerous, unsympathetic Captain Morton who seems more interested in his palm tree than in his men..... Based on Heggen's novel.
14 Saturday
Adult Birding Adventure, 9am @ the San Angelo State Park/South Gate – Bring your binoculars and camera. FMI Bob 325-944-1839
Family Day at the Museum of Fine Arts, 10am-3pm Families can participate in hands on art activities, sample new foods, listen to the music of different culture and tour current exhibits for FREE. FMI 325-653-3333 San Angelo Symphony: Salsa into the Night! 7pm @ Joanne & Chris McClish and Janie & Graham Delaney host an al fresco dinner south of the border with dance lessons from Dorothy and Angel Noreiga. $75 per person( reserve by May 6th) Call the Symphony Office FMI 325-658-5877 or www.sanangelosymphony.org
Saturday
Les Miserables, 2pm and 7:30pm @ the San Angelo Coliseum – Musical staged by San Angelo Broadway Academy youth theatre troupe.
Armed Forces Day @ Fort Concho – Displays and living history programs including artillery and cavalry demonstrations on site. FMI 325-481 -2646 Hobo Festival – 2011, 10am-5pm @ 703 South Chadbourne – Activities include Flea Market, Food, Live Music, Hobo Stew Cook-off, Hobo Costume Contest and more. FMI 325-656-2067 Children’s Fair 2011 Evening of Dance, 7pm @ The River Stage – A night filled with music, dance and al fresco dining under the stars. FMI 325-653-8877 Mister Roberts, 8pm @ Angelo Civic Theatre - Lt. Douglas Roberts has long served the bored, unhappy crewmen of a navy cargo ship as a buffer between themselves and the cantankerous, unsympathetic Captain Morton who
Photo Provided by Chrystal Ruiz Photography
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seems more interested in his palm tree than in his men..... Based on Heggen's novel San Angelo Civic Ballet – Spring Showcase, FMI 325-653-8877 or www.sanangelocivicballet.org San Angelo Colts Season Kick Off - Meet the Team, 1pm-3pm @ Sunset Mall near the fountains by the Coastal Cookie. Wooly Bully Festival, Downtown San Angelo – The final of 3 long run of monthly festivals in downtown San Angelo until next fall. Events will include a river parade as well as booths and other activities for the whole family. FMI 325-655-2345
22 Sunday
Les Miserables, 2pm @ the San Angelo Coliseum – Musical staged by San Angelo Broadway Academy youth theatre troupe.
Mister Roberts, 2pm @ Angelo Civic Theatre - Lt. Douglas Roberts has long served the bored, unhappy crewmen of a navy cargo ship as a buffer between themselves and the cantankerous, unsympathetic Captain Morton who seems more interested in his palm tree than in his men..... Based on Heggen's novel
25 Wednesday
27 Friday
Stories and Songs for Preschoolers 10am10:30am @ Tom Green County Main Library, 113 West Beauregard True Blue ASU: ASU Student Government Association is launching a campaign to have San Angelo community members wear ASU blue on Fridays and during ASU events.
Mister Roberts, 8pm @ Angelo Civic Theatre - Lt. Douglas Roberts has long served the bored, unhappy crewmen of a navy cargo ship as a buffer between themselves and the cantankerous, unsympathetic Captain Morton who seems more interested in his palm tree than in his men..... Based on Heggen's novel. Mister Roberts, 8pm @ Angelo Civic Theatre - Lt. Douglas Roberts has long served the bored, unSaturday happy crewmen of a navy cargo ship as a buffer between themselves and the cantankerous, unsympathetic Captain Morton who seems more interested in his palm tree than in his men..... Based on Heggen's novel
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San Angelo Project Graduation 2011, 11pm-4am @ the Spur Arena Hawaiian Beach Party (ride the wave) FMI 325-569-3400, ext. 122 or ann.hardegree@saisd.org
30 Monday Memorial Day Exercises at Fort Concho, 9am - Parade Ground near the headquarters building beginning at 9:00 and pays tribute to the men and women who have given their lives to defend our nation. FREE, FMI 325-481 -2646
MAY 2011
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MAY SAISD Elementary Breakfast and Lunch Menu
MENU IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE
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On the Rocks with Camille Sanchez This month marks the 1 year anniversary of a wonderful addition to The House of FiFi Dubois. FiFi's started out as a funky shop featuring a selective medley of vintage furniture, clothing and keepsakes. Now, three years later, it has evolved into so much more. The House of FiFi Dubois has expanded to include an eclectic lounge and live music venue. Drawing inspiration from the 1970's radio they grew up with, FiFi and Tony have created a locale unlike any other. When I walk in to FiFi's lounge I am always surrounded by good people, good music and an amazing atmosphere. I often talk about how much I enjoy unique, relaxing places to escape from the everyday hustle and bustle that is our lives. The House of FiFi Dubois is, without a doubt, a destination distinct from any you will find in San Angelo. In fact, visiting Toni and FiFi is usually my first choice when given the opportunity. Immediately upon entering The House of FiFi Dubois, you get a genuine sense of visiting a friend’s house. Couches, coffee tables, local artwork and various treasures fill the room. The shop itself looks and feels like an over extended living room. With FiFi and Toni's home directly overhead on the floor above, they are truly inviting all of us into their home. I love knowing every time I walk in the lounge, FiFi and Toni treat us like their favorite guests and although they clearly treat everyone the same way, it never takes away from the feeling. True to their 70’s roots this retroplex features all genres of music, this in turn, draws an ever evolving group of people in to the lounge. I am genuinely impressed every time I go into The House of FiFi Dubois. Toni and FiFi have unquestionably
MAY 2011
succeeded in creating an environment where all types of people feel welcome. Something I noticed with a lot of places in San Angelo is that each individual venue caters very specifically to only one group of people. Whether it is through the type of music they play or the overall ambiance itself, you are sure to find a notably definite group. I can’t help, but be captivated by, the ever changing hodgepodge of people and music that make The House of FiFi Dubois what it is. You can see the happiness radiate from not only their customers, but their live talent as well. The distinctive character of FiFi and Toni is clearly represented in their allembracing selection of musical talent from across the country. Gathering bands and musicians of all types, Toni and FiFi continuously pursue a scene that is true to the spirit of FiFi's Lounge. Besides the guarantee of a one-ofa-kind experience, you can also expect to find a drink menu that goes beyond your average beverage selection. Toni and FiFi serve an unmatched variety of signature drinks, you are sure to find much more than basic house wines and domestic beer at FiFi's Lounge! Before The House of FiFi Dubois became a lounge and hot spot for San Angelo nightlife, I adored their store. I am so pleased to call FiFi and Toni friends and thrilled to watch as The House of FiFi Dubois continues to grow. FiFi's Lounge has been called a “summer camp for adults”. To me, this is a wonderful description. These two women have created a true diamond in the rough. Their establishment is simply unequivocal to anything else you are likely to find in San Angelo. If you have never been to this exceptional venue, I highly recommend it!
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MAY 2011
TONE PIRATES
Asleep at the Wheel’s “Miles and Miles of Texas”. As it may By Bob Simpson be, the Tone Pirates are a cover band (which we all About two years ago, Dan Carroll wouldn’t know are a dime a dozen here sing anywhere outside his home. But it in town; or anywhere for that wasn’t until a friend asked him to sing at matter) but there aren’t many his wife’s birthday party, he called up four who can actually stamp their people he knew that had never met each sound as something away other for an impromptu gig. The response from the ordinary “Sweet was superior. But when someone asked, Home Alabama” or “Brown “How long have ya’ll been togeth- Eyed Girl” that just anyone er?” (Carroll’s answer was, “about an can get away with. The Tone hour”) he knew his singing would no longer Pirates even have caught the attention of radio DJ’s. Tombe held within the walls of his home only. my Stubbs of KKCN 103.1 FM The Tone Pirates would be one of (Kickin’ Country) says,
San Angelo’s top live acts of the city. The Tone Pirates are the kind of band you want to see on the weekend to let loose and enjoy a cold beer too. You may find yourself singing along to songs such as the classic 1969 Merle Haggard B-Side “Silver Wings” or tapping your toes to a version of
“These guys are the closest thing to Merle Haggard” (and the
Strangers). When they play “Silver Wings” you’ll know why. The band’s live shows are always unpredictable. One Moment you’ll hear a sax solo in a country song and the next, the front man is out on the dance floor making use of his wireless guitar setup. But it’s not just the band that gets everyone moving and wanting more. The band lets the songs do all the moving even if there’s no need for energy. The group consists of five members. Among its alumni (and as mentioned before) is Dan Carroll who is the lead vocalist and rhythm guitar player. Once a bus driver for the western swing outfit Asleep at the Wheel, Carroll gives the group it’s “tone” with his baritone singing style that’s as smooth as Tommy Duncan’s (singer for Bob Wills’ Texas Playboys).
makes matters more exciting to see him play let alone hear him. Mike “Fish” MacKrell has an interesting position in the band that still looms to find its place. A very talented saxophone player and keyboardist, MacKrell offers backing vocals as well. Catch him take spotlight on the Roy Orbison classic “Oh, Pretty Woman”. Paul Schroder is the bands noted drummer but that’s not all. He’s very proficient on the banjo and guitar. He also adds backing vocals and helps the boys keep in time. Last but not least, Norris McCarty, the bands bass player adds groove to the style and low end to the songs.
Jimmy Butler, a five-time Austin Music Award winner is the Tone Pirates most honorable member. Butler plays with such great technique and finesse. He can really cut loose on the ZZ Top classic “La Grange” and puts the British guitar God Eric Clapton to shame on “Wonderful Tonight” by making up a whirlwind on-thespot solo where there’s not one.
Last January, the band embarked on recording a live album which consists of the more solid and poignant sounding numbers the band does and does well. The group recorded the album as a way to say “thanks” to the fan base that has grown and given them something to keep with them (as well as to pass along to those who want them for booking). No release date has been set for the album as of yet.
Harvey Weiner is a fiddle player’s fiddle player. His history of playing alongside Bakersfield country greats of the 1960’s, Merle Haggard and Buck Owens, only
You can find out more about the Tone Pirates at www.thetonepirates.com.
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Sunday, May 1
Thursday, May 19
Jeska & Friends, Every Sunday Brunch – Sealy Flats
Thursday, May 5
Piano Bar Sing-A-Long – Miss Hattie’s Dedra Knox & Aubrey Lynn England – House of FiFi Dubois Slim Jim Rose – Sealy Flats
Piano Bar Sing-A-Long – Miss Hattie’s Clever Blue – Sealy Flats
Friday, May 20
Friday, May 6 Veins of Jenna, Shotgun Rebels – The Deadhorse Cody Johnson – Midnight Rodeo Crossing Tyler – Blaine’s Pub San Angelo Concert Series – Emmanuel Recital Hall Dan Calhoun & Gasoline Alley – Kimbo’s Saloon Manzy Lowry Band – Float 404 Nathan Hamilton and Beaver Nelson – Emmanuel Episcopal Church Swamp Sauce – House of FiFi Dubois Mike Milligan & The Altar Boyz – Sealy Flats
Saturday, May 7 Mike McClure Band – Blaine’s Pub Swamp Sauce – House of FiFi Dubois Badstrip, Duke, Bugota – The Deadhorse
Thursday, May 12 Hollywood Texas Blues – House of FiFi Dubois Whistlestix – Spam’s No Justice – Midnight Rodeo Piano Bar Sing-A-Long – Miss Hattie’s Live Music in the Courtyard – Chicken Farm Art Center Three Bad Jacks – The Deadhorse T. Gozney Thornton – Sealy Flats
Friday, May 13
Susan Gibson & Van Darien – House of FiFi Dubois Turbo 350 – The Deadhorse Rob Baird – Midnight Rodeo Doug Moreland – Blaine’s Pub Happy Fat – Sealy Flats
Saturday, May 21 The DIVAS – House of FiFi Dubois Chris Brazeal Band – Party Ranch Snake Skin Prison – The Deadhorse Chris Ruest – Sealy Flats
Sunday, May 22 Antique Scream – The Deadhorse Jeska & Friends, Brunch – Sealy Flats
Thursday, May 26 Piano Bar Sing-A-Long – Miss Hattie’s Jason Eady, Bobby Duncan – Blaine’s Pub
Friday, May 27 Zac Harmon – Sealy Flats Cory Morrow – Midnight Rodeo Toenail Trail Days Music Festival – City Park Shotgun Rebels, Heroine – The Deadhorse A Band Named Sue – House of FiFi Dubois
Tha Shizz – House of FiFi Dubois Tejas Brothers – Blaine’s Pub Buster Jiggs – Party Ranch Tablespoon – Spam’s
Saturday, May 28
Saturday, May 14
Sunday, May 29
Vallejo – The Deadhorse The Divas, Red Steagall – McNease Convention Center Somebody’s Darling, Talley Services – House of FiFi Dubois Mark Searcy Band – Sealy Flats Mark Searcy – Sealy Flats
Derek Teague Band – House of FiFi Dubois Thunderosa – The Deadhorse Blues Boy Willie – Sealy Flats Owen Pye – Cork and Pig Tavern Jeska & Friends, Brunch – Sealy Flats
Tuesday, May 31 Oscar Ornelas – Sealy Flats
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Seven different women came together on a hot summer’s night in August of 2008 at Rod Bridgeman’s Sealy Flats (Blues Inn) to play some of their favorite songs to a sold out audience. Little did any of us know (who were there in attendance) that we were in for such a treat. “It was kind of a joke”, says Diva Dedra Knox. “It just kind of stuck so we kept the name”. The Divas are an all-girl cover band who bares their name proudly on an oversized trailer (and a banner behind them when they play) with a distinctive style of harmonies and sassy personas. On the Divas website (www.thedivasmusic.com), you’ll find a different story than what there really is. Who are these self- proclaimed Divas? San Angelo native Dedra Knox, the quiet Diva, is the most diverse of the 6 women that make up the group. She plays guitar, percussion, keys, and a variety of other musical instruments for the Divas. Knox is better known around town as “Patsy” from her role in the production of “Always…Patsy Cline”. “I’m writing new material”, says Knox. “But no matter where I play I always get the request to sing “Crazy”. Not that she minds performing the Patsy Cline classic; as to her, there are two ways to looking at it. Willie Nelson wrote the song whom she is a big fan of. Jerrilyn Prestiano is a flautist who plays with a distinctive line of melody on any given song. Prestiano is also the other half of the local folk duo Prestwood. Filling in when needed on parts where brass or woodwinds are needed, she certainly fills some big gaps. Prestiano is also considered to be a flutologist knowing more than you could imagine there is to know about the flute itself. “The Divas are all amazingly talented individuals and, with the group's support, have potential for influence far beyond San Angelo”, says Prestiano. Mary Parmer, originally from Dallas, is the purest Diva. She brings sweetness to the groups songs with her own angelic voice and soft arrangement. “I think we blend well”, says the guitar-vocalist who continues; “The difference in our voices and styles is what makes us unique”. Jersey girl, Tamara Rossini-Laney (the one always sporting a straw cow-gal hat), who was a Nashville songstress in the 1980’s, brings on an edge to the Divas with her spastic energy and subtle songwriting style. Influenced by the close harmonies of the Everly Brothers, the guitar-vocalist is a strong believer in the Divas and brings the Everly’s flavor to the group. “The harmonies, the songs….everything! There’s a sisterhood amongst us and also something very spiritual there”, Rossini-Laney says. The newest Diva, Ann Southall, is a local music teacher whose influences range from her mother to Led Zeppelin’s (now Them Crooked Vultures) John Paul Jones. On the electric bass, Southall adds deep end to the divas instrumental abilities. Southall says, “The Divas have a lot of depth and could go several ways, but the music is why we do this. Being a part of a band is unavoidably up close and personal. It's very rare and very special.”
s
Now five talented women only come together on occasion but always please each crowd they play for. With guitar picks and beer koozies for merchandise, the possibilities are endless for these ladies. The San Angelo Art community is their largest fan base. Could it be because of the nature of songs that the 40-plus crowd goes for? Whether they’re playing original songs (yet to be recorded but hopefully soon) or covering old classics by some of yesteryears favorites, the Divas are always of the divine. By Bob Simpson
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