The Valley Nights Archive

Acoustic Wave, Blue Skye Mourning, "The Sauce Boss" Bill Wharton, Gene Watson, The Bloomsburg Theatre Ensemble, The Rise, Fall and Second Coming of the Capital Theatre, Kenny Rogers, Herman's Hermits, Neon Cactus, How to Survive the Music Industry, Johnny J. Blair and Evinrude, The Williamsport Area School District Music Program, Tom Stoppard on Stage at Lycoming College, Steve Fenderson, The Jongleurs, Frank Grace and the Detonators,The Electric and MIDI Violin, The Hammered Dulcimer, The Canyon Country Bluegrass Festival. These subjects and many more have all been featured in past issues of the Valley Nights.
The Valley Nights is dedicated to keeping you informed about the latest happenings in and around the Susquehanna Valley. There is no reason to fret however, if the paper copies were gone before you had a chance to pick one up. The latest issue can be read right here on this website.
What if I missed an old issue? Well, that is why this archive is available for your perusal. Whether you want to know more about Herman's Hermits' visit to Northumberland, or you just want to look again at the photos from the Canyon Country Bluegrass Festival, it's all here.
The articles and photographs that once graced the paper pages of The Valley Nights are here for your enjoyment, for the first or the fifteenth time. Please tell a friend if you enjoyed your visit to the archive, and please be aware that we are your friends so you can tell us. Two small notes: that musty smell is not the result of your visit to the archive (there's no old paper rotting here ); the pictures on this page often link to a much larger gallery of related pictures (some of which are shown here exclusively for the first time)!

• Acoustic Wave (8.97)
• Behind the Scenes
• Benton Frontier Days Celebration and Championship Rodeo
• Bill Wharton
• The Bloomsburg Theatre Ensemble
• The Bloomsburg Theatre Ensemble
• Blues & Gasoline
• Bullfrog Brewery Anniversary Ale
• Christmas at the Cloverleaf Barn
• Community Theater League's Chapter Two
• Crooked Halo
• The Cultural Track
• The Downtown Williamsport Music Beat (7.97)
• The Downtown Williamsport Music Beat (8.97)
• The Downtown Williamsport Music Beat (10.97)
• The Downtown Williamsport Music Beat (11.97)
• The Downtown Williamsport Music Beat (12.97)
• The Downtown Williamsport Music Beat (1.98)
• The Downtown Williamsport Music Beat (2.98)
• Editor's Special Topics (10.97)
• Editor's Special Topics (12.97)
• 8th Annual Canyon Country Bluegrass Festival Preview
• 8th Annual Canyon Country Bluegrass Festival Review
• 18th Annual Danville Arts and Craft Fair Highlight
• Entertaining the Easy Way
• Festivals in the Mountains
• Fiddler on the Roof
• Flaming Foliage Festival
• Foot Lights (10.97)
• Foot Lights (11.97)
• (Family) Foot Lights (12.97)
• Foot Lights (1.98)
• Foot Lights (2.98)
• Frank Grace and the Detonators
• Friendly Fun at Feola's Fiddle Fest
• From the Editor (2.98)
• Gene Watson
• A Ghostly CD Event (Rob Brown)
• Halloween: The Real Story
• Here Comes Santa Claus!
• Herman's Hermits
• Holiday Festivities at the Millbrook Playhouse
• How to Survive The Music Industry (Part I)
• How to Survive The Music Industry (Part II)
• How to Survive The Music Industry (Part III)
• How to Survive The Music Industry (Part IV)
• Fifth Annual Jerseytown Bluegrass Festival
• Jonathan Edwards
• Knoebels
• The Last Flapper
• Lycoming College's Double Dose of Comedy
• Mardi Gras in Williamsport
• Meet the Editor (11.97)
• Meet the Editor (12.97)
• Millbrook Playhouse "Child's Play"
• Milton Harvest Festival
• Mountain Jam '97
• The Mudflaps
• Nameless Fear
• Neon Cactus
• News Topics from the Editor
• Pippin
• The Rise, Fall and Second Coming of the Capital Theatre
• Rohrbach's Annual Pumpkin Fall Festival
• Rohrbach's Annual Pumpkin Fall Festival
• Seasonal Fun - Valentine's Day
• Rendezvous with Slowlane
• Steve Fenderson
• Susquehanna Valley Chorale Begins its 29th Season
• Thanksgiving: A History
• The Electric and MIDI Violin
• The Hammered Dulcimer
• The Ukulele
• Treefest '97
• 20th Annual Fun Fair, Festival, Flea Market and Chicken Barbecue
• Valley Nights' Oktoberfest Bash Highlights
• Williamsport Area School District Music Program
• Williamsport Community Concert Association
• Wiring Your Home for The 90's and Beyond
• Women in Transition Benefit Held at Gooseberries
• WZXR 6th Anniversary Bash
• Yes, Dear Readers, There is a Santa Claus
• Zendogs

  ---

Acoustic Wave (August '97)
Being in the music and entertainment field for about thirty years, I've seen a lot of changes come about. During the last part of the eighties, there was a resurgence of acoustic music. Most of my fellow musicians and the general audience will say it was caused by MTV Music Television Video.
Yes, it1s true! Bands like Aerosmith, Guns and Roses and Tesla were very instrumental in turning the tide from heavy electric rock and roll to a little more laid back style of the same thing they had been doing. To MTV and the bands previously mentioned, we have to say thanks. It opened up a door which had been stuck for a long time.
There has always been a bit of a rivalry between the metal head hard rockers and the not so heavy edged musicians. Even in the sixties, there were ony about three distinct styles of music: hard rock (acid rock), folk rock (contemporary) and rhythm and blues (motown dance). The three styles have always been struggling to make their mark on society but with the advent of the acoustic wave, it slowly started to bridge the gap between them. If my readers don1t believe this theory, look what has evolved from this transition . . . atlernative music. Alternative is a combination of the heavier rock rhythms and the lighter acoustic melody lines and folk style lyrics.
Next month I1d like to try to go more into depth on the effect of the acoustic wave on today1s music and the artists who have incorporated it into their present day style.
If anyone has any other opinions, please write to: Valley Nights, Attn: Editor/Acoustic Wave, P.O. Box 393, Lewisburg PA 17837-0392. Eventually there will be an email address for all you wonderful computer junkies.

The 1997-98 season marks the 20th anniversary of one of the most unique theatres in America, the Bloomsburg Theatre Ensemble. The highly successful professional theatre is located in a most unlikely spot, Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania.

Today, the BTE operates on a budget in excess of $600,000 and employs ten full time employees. While a single production may cost $40,000 or more, BTE maintains a policy of live theatre for the people, with singleshow tickets for a performance at no more than $20 and generous discounts on subscription, senior and student tickets.
In April 1995, the Bloomsburg Theatre Ensemble kicked off "The Show Must Go On" campaign with a goal of $450,000 to stabilize the theatre by eliminating all debt, including two mortgages, and establish a cash reserve for the future. So far, nearly $270,000 has been raised and one mortgage has been retired! BTE is as financially secure as it has been over the past 12 years.
BTE is unique not only for its location but also in the fact that it is not a one-man dictatorial operation, but rather a group decision making body.
Thus, BTE has come a long, long way from its humble beginning as a group of young students wanting to increase their knowledge of and performance in the theatre under the tutorage of the Master, Alvina Krause, to today's multi-faceted company. From an $11 bank account to a budget of almost three quarters of a million dollars a year. From unpaid actors to a fully funded staff. From three productions in 1978 to a year-round operation in a million dollar complex. All of this has not been easy. Persistence and hard work have paid off and for this we salute you, Bloomsburg Theatre Ensemble for a job well done!
For more information about BTE, to volunteer your time or expertise in any area of the group's wide-reaching programs, contact Steve Bevans at (717) 784-5530. For BTE's school programs, please contact Paula Henry at (717) 458-4075.

They consider themselves a "juke joint party band." They came up with their name because gasoline stands for whiskey. They've opened for a national and they love the blues. Certainly, this band can be none other than the fun-loving, Williamsport based band, Blues & Gasoline!
Although February 22nd will be there first year anniversary, these guys have certainly made their name known on the blues circuit in the short time they've been playing together. They focus more on traditional and early blues (Chicago style), all the way up to Kenny Wayne Sheppard. Band members include: Blue Willie - harmonica, "Stretch" - guitar/vocals, Mississippi Jay "Bone" Short - guitar/vocals, Stu B. - bass guitar (he says they won't let him sing) and Mike "Mums" Mummey - drums/vocals.
Blue Willie, the "all around nice guy" hails from Desmoines, Iowa. He started playing guitar at 16 and the harmonica, at 20-years-old. The first band he played in was at the age of 19, out in the mid-west, and he's played the harmonica since.
Stretch, of Williamsport, started playing at 10-years-old. At age 12, he was playing gospel music with his parents until the age of 17, then joined a rock band in 1976. He's played in Cold Touch, King B, Axis and many others.
Jay, originally from Boloxi Mississippi has been playing since the age of 18. He say his first "real" band was at the age of 22 or 23. He's played in Mo' Blues, Blues Incorporated, The Headhunters and others.
Stu, who hails from Youngstown, Ohio, started playing at the age of 16. He played in his first band in 1976, when he was living in Gainsville Florida for awhile. Previous bands include Blues Incorporated, King B and Strickly Business.
Mike, of Williamsport, has been playing drums since he was 5-yearsold. Since the age of 11, he was playing in country bands. Mike has played in Out of Control, Good Time Charlie, Night Flight, Sweet Desire and a nine piece band with horns (Motown and Chicago Blues) while living in California.
What makes these guys sound so great is their natural talent, experience and the fact that they have actually been playing together for over 20 years, even though they have only played together as Blues & Gasoline for one year. Through the years, they have crossed each other's paths while playing, or actually performed together in the same bands. So how did they actually get together? "We were jamming at the 5th Ave Tavern every month and it just went from there," they say. "That's basically what we're all about. Good friends playing good music together."
Clearly, they have accomplished a lot in their short time together. They recently opened for Big Jack Johnson & the Oilers in Williamsport. Johnson, a national act from Mississippi told the band members he'd most likely be back because he really enjoyed his time there with the band. They also opened for Ski Sawmill's Blues Fest which was headlined by Rod Piazza.
Stretch is the songwriter of the band, with Jay occasionally doing some of the writing. Their originals include Lost Her On The Highway, It Won't Be Long and The Price.
While Stretch is the songwriter, Blue Willie is definitely the clown of the group. They call him "Jim Bean, the official drunk of the band." Blue Willie tells me, "Actually I met Elvis in Illinois but that's another story altogether!"
With every band there's a number one man and theirs is Glenn Hubbard. He does their door, is the head of security, their roadie, and, they say, "our best friend." They call him "The Glenninator."
Although they do love to have a good time, they also have a serious side. "We're dedicated," says Blue Willie. "Blues is my life," says Jay.
Stu says their short term goal is to let people have fun and have a good time. But they do need to make money too. They explain, "There's a lot of work and money that goes into a band. Band instruments and even accessories for instruments, drum heads and guitar strings are outrageous." Stu says, "We'd like to have a better sound system and somebody to do it, but I guess that's just a dream." With enthusiasm, he adds, "We do good for what we have though." Jay joins in, "It makes people move. That's what the blues does to you. It's an emotional kind of music. That's what it's all about, is feeling. It's more emotional than it is musical."
Their long term goal is to put out a CD and find a sponsor. Also, they say, "To be as professional as we can and to try to keep a little class in the act."
To sum it up, Mike says, "We're just a rockin' blues band, looking to have a good time, make some money and make people happy. We love the blues. We also want to take people's cares away for a couple of hours a week and have them let their hair down. And that means a lot. I know it means a lot to me; to watch my friends and other people have a good time."
If you haven't yet had the opportunity to get out and see Blues & Gasoline, even if you're not a blues fan, do it soon! From me to you, I wasn't the biggest blues fan around but these guys really impressed me. I'm sold on the blues!

WILLIAMSPORT-Nearing its first anniversary as Williamsport's only micro-berwery, The Bullfrog Brewery is preparing a special menu of beers for its loyal clientele. On the heels of a very popular India pale ale, which was the talk of the town this summer, come three beers which have been released in the past few weeks.
The first, a Bavarian weiss, is a south German style wheat beer with a unique banana and clove aroma rendered by the specialty yeast used by the Bullfrog's Masterbrewer Charles Schnable.
Following that is a Vienna style Octoberfest, a reddish, full-bodied lager, said Schnable, but added that the loosely coined "celebration ale," expected to be released on the weekend of August 17, will be very much worth the wait.
This English-style strong ale is moderately hopped but packed with specialty malts including a Belgian aromatic malt, British crystal and Caramunich malts. Dark red to brown in color, this old-style ale is expected to yield a whopping 9% alcohol by volume. Those not familiar with the effects of these types of strong beers should use caution when first trying them.
The Bullfrog is still looking for a name for this commemorative ale. Co-owner and GM Steve Koch is calling for a beer-naming contest and urges interested parties to call in their suggested name prior to August 17 at 326-4700.
When asked what plans the Bullfrog has for year number two, Koch replied that the business plans to expand and distrubute kegs of Bullfrog beers throughout Pennsylvania. The business will also begin to cater events and parties, alerting the public of the Bullfrog's food menu which certainly rivals in quality the beer which made this establishment so popular.

Downtown Williamsport Beat
A Halloween Follow-Up Workout

For some, Halloween night is an evening when you are entitled to dress in your most outrageous costume and pretend you're someone else. For myself, all I knew it was going to be a long night! With no thoughts of dressing up, Vicki Emick, my friend and assistant for the evening, convinced me that we too should get all decked out. After all, we had seven bars to cover (you know, to get photos)!
Dressed to kill, us two revised sexy ladies were ready to head for our first stop, The Pub. It was time to see if our identities would be known. After some time and staring (I know he wanted us), our September Bartender of the Month, Troy, made me out! True to the occasion, The Pub's bartenders were decked out in their own garbs! Being on a time schedule (trying to be), it was time to head for our next stop, Franco's.
When we walked in, we found ourselves the focus of attention. No one was dressed up! Hey, we didn't care; it was Halloween. Anyhow, we found what we were looking for. With their usual friendly smiles, the Franco's waitresses were dressed for the cause and happy to pose! Now it was time for the next stop, Bullfrog Brewery.
When we arrived, the Bullfrog was already hoppin'! Get it, hoppin'? Oh well, anyhow, I spotted Diane, the Floor Manager, complete with her new face for the evening. And behind the bar, sporting his new look was bartender, Paul. I think he was trying to give us two sexy broads a little competition. Time to go! Next stop, Shadows.
We hit a goldmine of costumes at WZXR's Halloween Bash at Shadows. There was one particular party goer who caught my eye with his unusual outfit! It was Cupid, complete with bow, hairy chest and hairy legs. Turns out, his name was Mark Tedesco and I later learned he was chosen winner in the funniest category and was judged the overall winner! Well, time to head to the other side of the river, to The Vineyard.
The Vineyard was having a party of their own with Variety 97.7! We found another fun place complete with costumes! Party goers were celebrating on the dance floor, challenging at the pool tables and just having a good time! Upon our departure, we discovered two ghastly beauties stalking around the door. Time to head to Duboistown, to the Valley Inn.
The Valley Inn also had a good crowd but the Halloween spirit wasn't there; not too many people dressed up again. Thank goodness for Strickly Business and their sense of humor! One minute they were donned in black with a show of legs and the next, they were transformed into "Devo!" Talk about a time warp! Time to warp to New Shore Acres, our last and seventh stop for the night.
By the time we arrived at New Shore Acres (which was late), we were still going strong! Lucky for us, local musician Steve Fenderson still had the crowd's attention and had them dancing! There again, no one was dressed up when we arrived. No big deal; we had a great time. We even got to pose on the pool table! I was a little offended when Bert the bartender refused to look at my teeth.
Well, after a long evening it was time to pack up the camera and head home. Weird thing; since we "dolled" ourselves up for the evening, I never had so many offers! Perhaps I should smear the make-up and terrorize the hair a little more often! All in all, Vicki and I had a great time and we're looking forward to next Halloween!

The Downtown Williamsport Music Beat (2.98)

Burning Bus

Where can you listen to some great music and just plain have fun? None other than right in the heart of downtown Williamsport and outlying areas! It doesn't matter what your musical taste buds are craving . . . jazz, blues, rock, etc. . . . your hunger will be satisfied with an exceptional line-up of musical talent and good times!
Our first stop, the Bullfrog Brewery, brings us a band from the Lancaster area, with a reputation for musical exploration, divergent genrebending fusion of styles and a willingness to take chances. Burning Bus comes to the Bullfrog, February 14, on Valentine's Day!
Since the band's debut CD, Sunny Side Up, they have opened shows for Sting, Natalie Merchant, Dave Matthews Band, Big Head Todd and many others. Their second album, Greener, "captures much of the material that has become crowd favorites on the road, including the joy of Womb of the World, the rasta/polka accordion-fueled Bedspread, the ambient blues of Bones, the groove of Greener and Strong, the Drunken Horns Latin contribution to Bad Seed, and then closes with the eerie off-kilter Giraffe." My personal favorite, Giraffe, left me feeling like I was in the middle of an eccentric circus. This is one band you must make an effort to catch!
On January 19, the Bullfrog was host to the Jonathan Edwards Drum Circle and I had the fortunate opportunity to experience it for myself. What a great time! The place became the "Bullfrog Center for the Cultural Arts," as Jonathan called it.
The evening started out with 15 people and grew into 26 crazed drummers. The drum circle, which Jonathan says is more like a rhythym circle, gave people the occasion to not only play but learn.
Jonathan started out with a basic beat and then one person would add another beat to it. Each person around the circle would then add a different beat and once everyone was playing, it sounded great. I thought I was actually in the jungle. Everyone was joining in, such as the bartender, playing the glass and pitcher! The teacher in Jonathan came out as he lectured about rhythm and the different types of drums. There was so much more to it that it's just to hard to explain. You have to experience it for yourself. Bullfrog co-owner and GM, Steve Koch, says the drum circle will be coming again soon to the Bullfrog. Watch for the calendar in Valley Nights or give them a call for more information.
Now it's time we walk down a few blocks from the Bullfrog Brewery and head to the famed Franco's Lounge.
Franco's will once again feature its famed Poetry Slam February 2. If you're into swing and jazz, be sure to catch Sink Or Swing on the 7th. Mardi Gras is coming to Franco's the 19th, 20th and 21st! On the 21st you can catch the band Zydecoal, a cajun jump jam band, along with the masquerade, prizes, food and drink specials! Head back on the 24th for Fat Tuesday because there will be more food and drink special, along with music and prizes. Local alternative folk rock band, Ben Kaplan Band will be holding a CD release party there on the 26th and NYC blues rock band, The Threads, will be appearing on the 28th. Sounds like a great month at Franco's!
Now it's time to head on down a few blocks to The Pub. I finally got to catch the band Emily's Toybox and what a wild time I had! I can't remember laughing that much in a long time. Band members Mike Wise, Frank White and Wade Corbin are crazy, corrupt, talented and seductive all rolled into one! And if you're ever short on toilet paper, be there when they play next because they have it in abundant supplies! You have to be there to believe it and you can do that on the 19th, when they make another insane appearance! Look for me because I'll certainly be there.
Now lets head to our last downtown stop, Shadows at the Sheraton, where it's always party time! Mardi Gras comes to Shadows on the 19th, 20th and 21st. On the 19th, it's bead night with a free cajun buffet. I'm already getting hungry; they have great buffets. On the 20th, it's coin night with some type of entertainment. And on the 21st, it's costume night at Shadows! As always, you can catch John Finn with his karaoke on Thursdays, as well as the Miller Time Dance Party on Saturdays. Shadows offers so much that you're better off reading the calendar in their ad!
Now we're heading up to Washington Boulevard to visit Joey's Place. Joey's offers the sounds of DJ & Karaoke man Hank G. every Thursday! On the 7th, it's the sounds of The Pastels and on the 14th, heavy alternative band, Half Tempted. Coming to Joey's on the 21st is the exceptional classic rock and top 40 band, Night Flight. This is a band that has been together for ten years! Their music covers a span of over 30 years. They can play anything from early Beatles to new top 40 songs in one set. Their music covers the sounds of greats such as Tom Petty, Collective Soul, The Wallflowers, Journey, AC-DC, The Eagles, Billy Joel and so many more. The band, which has played throughout Northern PA, the Finger Lake Region of New York and the State College area includes band members Les Turner-vocals/guitar, Alfonse Ciaccio-vocals/guitar, Frank Nero-vocals/keyboards, Ryan Smith-percussion and Gordon Reichenbach-bass guitar. And coming to Joey's on the 28th, it's blues marvel Bluezilla.

ACROSS THE RIVER
Now I'm going to take you across the Susquehanna River into South Williamsport and Duboistown, where the fun doesn't stop . . . at The Mountaineer and Valley Inn!
Remember, The Mountaineer does not feature live entertainment but you'll have a great time kicking back and hanging out with your friends while indulging in a game of pool or electronic darts!
Now lets head east into Duboistown to our next stop, the Valley Inn, where music is alive and kicking! Valentine's weekend is the big one at the Valley. Friday, the 13th (does that date ring a bell?) brings us, all the way from Philadelphia, the remarkable Zendogs! They'll be there playing songs off their CD, "White Elephants" and charming the crowd with their gift of harmony. On the 14th, it's State College based Greedy Weasel. These guys are also great on the ear. And on Sunday, the 15th, it's everyone's favorite, Strawberry Jam. A perfect ending to a perfect weekend at the Valley Inn.

UP THE SOCK
Now I'm going to take you up the sock, on Route 87 north, New Shore Acres. On the 7th, it's one of our feature bands this month, Bloomsburg based Slowlane. They'll be displaying the talents of songwriter Todd Cummings as they delight us with many of their originals. On the 14th, Valentine's Day, it's the Zendogs! I recommend this as the place to take your sweetie on that special night. New Shore Acres has fantastic food and then you can stay for an evening of great music put out as only the Zendogs can do. I wouldn't miss it for the world! On the 21st, it's country band Bettin' On A Full House and on the 28th, Greedy Weasel! A great month for New Shore Acres.
So, there it is folks. No one can ever say music and fun are dead in downtown Williamsport and surrounding areas!

It was a hot day, Saturday July 12th, as I began my adventure. While driving northward among the majestic mountains and the sun's hot rays, I wondered, "How much further is it?" Finally, I found my turnoff and thought, "I must be close" but the road stretched on. As the mountain pulled me inward, I found my destination; Stony Fork Creek Campground's best kept secret . . . the 8th ANNUAL CANYON COUNTRY BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL. What a great time I had! I figured the best way to show you is with pictures.
Besides lying back and listening to some great Bluegrass music (yes, I actually was working with my camera), I met a bunch of fantastic people and was more relaxed than I've been in a long time!
The weekend event attracted people (and pets) of all ages, from all parts of the state. Eleanor Kline and Arlene Beyer of Danville, who regularly attend Bluegrass festivals, made their first trip to the event. How did they end up there? Politely, but with a laugh they tell me one won tickets from a radio station and the other won them at a previous Bluegrass festival. Can't get any luckier ladies!
It was a day for people of all ages as the adorable 8-year-old Kyra Yost, of Boyertown, displays her cat face that she had painted at Kids Cove. It was her fifth year attending the event.
For the handsome and charming Steven Hawk, of the Allentown area, who is a Biology student at Mansfield University, it was a first. "I'm here for the overnight and so far I'm having a wonderful time," he says with a shyish grin. Thanks for keeping me company and sharing your water jug Steve!
The musical line-up was jam packed with astonishing talent. The bands came from all across the U.S. One that I found most amazing was a band called Kickin' Grass. What was so great? They were only kids playing strings! The band consists of 17-year-old Eric Troutman, of Elizabethville, 15-year-old Justin Carbone, of Willow Grove, 15-year-old Amy Estel, of Willow Grove, 14-year-old Tyne Replogle, of Roaring Spring and 15-year-old Paul Rowlands, of Tunkhannock. If you get the chance, you've got to check them out!
With all this said and done, I'll let the pictures tell the rest of the story. My advice, make sure you plan to attend next year's event. I'll be there with my tent!

Foot Lights (November '97)

During the last full week of September, the Bloomsburg Fair held center stage for our region, playing host to almost three quarters of a million visitors and setting new attendance records on several days. The Kenny Rogers concert was my favorite on his return visit on Friday night. For the one-time or non-fair goers, there was still plenty of entertainment on stage in our area that week.
No amplification was needed for the big, big sounds of the City Rhythm Orchestra at their recent concert in the Pottsville High School Auditorium. It is hard to believe that so much beautiful music was produced by only sixteen very talented musicians, both as solo or as an ensemble. For a brief moment, you were able to relive the bygone era of the Big Bands. The smooth voice of Steve Ritrovato doing Frank Sinatra classic favorites contrasted with the "belting out" of Miss Vickie Woodlyn with her interpretations of Ella Fitzgerald and Sara Vaughn. The audience joined in on Glenn Miller's familiar Pennsylvania 6-5000 and almost danced in the aisles as the very limber couples "jitter-bugged" on stage. For more information on future concerts, please call (717) 648-3931.
At the Grand Candlelight Theatre at Rockwell Center in Milton, September 26 was opening night of the smash hit, "Mame." As we have grown to expect, every production is an outstanding event and "Mame" was no exception. Rosemary Loar as Auntie Mame gave a memorable performance. Director Michael Licata made sure every detail was perfection: dancing, singing, costumes, set and lighting. The large supporting cast was headed by Austin Connors as Young Patrick who stole the show at times as young thespians always seem to do.
On the boards of the Alvina Krause Theatre in Bloomsburg, on October 3, Bloomsburg Theatre Ensemble opened its 1997-98 season for the 20th time with its production of Moliere's "The Hypochondriac." This hilarious comedy played to a capacity audience who showed their appreciation with their standing ovation. Written in the 1660's by French playwright Moliere (1622-1673), the script was adapted and directed by James Goode and based on the translation by Katharine P. Wormeley. Moliere acted in and directed many of his 30 scripts over the years. It was during The Hypochondriac's fourth presentation in 1673, while playing the lead as Argan, that Moliere became ill and died shortly there after. In BTE's production, Peter Brown gave an outstanding performance as Argan. The very talented Seth Reichgott played not one but three different roles in this memorable performance. Congratulations to BTE on this the beginning of their 20th season.
Music, music, music for the serious music fans! It was happening at the Weis Center at Bucknell University in Lewisburg with a performance by The Dalihapa Ensemble on Saturday, October 4. As a tribute to the 100th anniversary of the death of Johannes Brahms (1833-1897), their opening selection was his Trio in A Minor, Opus 114. This brilliantly performed composition was followed by Igor Stravinsky's (1882-1971) L'Historire du Soldat (The Soldier's Tale) which was written in 1918. The concluding number was Brahm's Trio in B Major, Opus 8. The audience showed their appreciation by their standing ovation.
Innovative and provocative were the plays produced by the students of the theatre departments of Bloomsburg University and Bucknell University on Sunday, October 5. William Shakespeare's "A Midsummer Night's Dream" was on the card at Bloomsburg. Directed by Donna Kaz, this modern adaptation of this classic done in a "hippie" style was created on stage by a very talented group of beginning thespians. Jimmi Simpson as Puck stole the show. Bucknell's presentation was a production of Caryl Churchill's "Cloud Nine" which was for mature audiences only! Act one is set in British Colonial Africa in the 1870's with a look at the Victorian attitudes. While the second act, set in a London park, portrays the characters at an age 25 years later in life but in a time frame of the 1970's depicting the changing morals and relationships of today.
For the jazz enthusiast, Hazleton's Community Concert Association's first presentation of their 1997-98 season of Rene Netto and The Sounds of New Orleans on October 7 was made to order for you. While you were in the auditorium of the Hazleton Senior High School, if one closed their eyes, they were transported for a brief moment to Bourbon or Saint Charles streets in you know where. Every number was a classic and for the very appreciative audience it was a toe tapping, hand clapping evening.
The "Shikellamy Children's Theatre" was formed in 1992 as a non-profit corporation to foster interest in the theatre and skills in the field of acting and related areas. This program is designed for students in the middle school who live in the Skikellamy School District. On October 30 and 31, and November 1, this group of very talented young thespians will present Edgar Allen Poe's "The Fall of the House of Usher" at 7 p.m. in the John R. Kauffman, Jr. Public Library, located at 228 Arch Street, Sunbury. The price of admission is $1.50 for students and senior citizens while adults will be admitted with a $3 ticket. For additional information about the group and future productions, please contact Hope Kopf at (717) 473-8696.
Always innovative, The Grand Candlelight Theatre has added "Children's Musical Theatre" to its list of productions for its 1997-98 season. New to Rockwell Center in Milton, Rockwell Productions, Ltd. will present everyone's favorite, "Aladdin" on November 1 at 1 p.m. Journey to ancient China for this story of a poor boy, the beautiful princess and the very large gene in the very tiny lamp. This play is especially recommended for elementary school students. To celebrate the first children's music theatre presentation of the season, the program will include a Halloween costume party. All children who attend in costume will receive candy and have the chance to present their costumes on stage before the show. Prizes for the top three costumes will be awarded at the end of the show and will include tickets to "Rumplestiltskin" which will be presented in The Grand Candlelight Theatre on February 27 and 28, 1998. Also, audience members can meet the cast of the show following the production. Tickets for "Aladdin" are $6 for children and $9 for adults. Pre-show dining is available before the show for a small additional charge. Ticket discounts are available with the purchase of tickets to both "Aladdin" and "Rumplestiltskin." To purchase tickets, call the box office at (800) 355-3099 or stop by The Grand Candlelight Theatre at 32 South Turbot Avenue at Broadway in Milton.
There is still time to catch a performance of the "Unsinkable Molley Brown" which plays through November 8 at the Dutch Apple Theatre in Lancaster. Angela Hagg plays the title roll in this foot-stomping musical comedy. To make reservations, call (717) 898-1900.
The Sigmund and Clair Weis Center for the Performing Arts on the campus of Bucknell University has a diverse group of offerings for the month of November. On Saturday, November 1 at 8 p.m., Laurie Anderson will appear in "The Speed of Darkness." America's premiere performance artist returns to the Weis Center for the first time since her sold-out performance in 1991 with a collection of stories and songs about the future of art and technology. In an informal evening with only keyboard, violin and digital processing, Anderson talks about how three places, a theatre, a mental hospital and a control room are merging to form late 20th century techno-culture. Her far-reaching art fuses music and comedy with personal and political messages.
The following week on Friday, November 7 at 8 p.m., the Center will host "Philadanco" (The Philadelphia Dance Company). An internationally acclaimed, predominantly African American dance company, Philadanco has performed on television with the Philadelphia Orchestra and the Duke Ellington Orchestra among others and with pop celebrities including Lou Rawis, Teddy Pendergrass, Millie Jackson and Jerry Butler.
Saturday, November 15, at 8 p.m. will be the last of "Grace Notes" series for 1997 with the performance of "The Maia Quartet." Featured will be music of Mozart, Beethoven and Bloch.
For additional information or to order tickets, contact: Weis Center Events, Bucknell University, Lewisburg, PA 17838 or call (717) 524-3700.
The Haas Center For The Arts on Bloomsburg University Campus will stage Carlota Santana Spanish Dance Company's, "Fiesta Flamenco" on Saturday, November 8 at 8 p.m. Flamenco, a complex dance form first popularized by Spanish Gypsies, takes on a contemporary flair when the skilled Carlota Santana dancers set foot on stage. Vibrant costumes and rhythmic guitar melodies add dimension to graceful, sensuous dancers which produces a unique theatrical performance. To order tickets call (717) 389-4409.
The Bloomsburg University Players will present their second student offering of its 1997-98 season, "Square Peg Ball" on November 19 to 22 at 8 p.m. and November 23 at 2 p.m. All performances are reserved seating in Gross Auditorium in Carver Hall. To reserve your ticket call the box office at 389-4409 or 389-4287.
Student productions always have that delightful innocent quality. The two one-act plays produced by the Lycoming College Thespians at the Arena Theatre was no exception. "The Real Inspector Hound" and "After Magritte" by Tom Stoppard and both directed by Lycoming College's Robert F. Falk were on stage on September 25 to 27 and October 8 to 11. Known as one of Britain's brightest and funniest playwrights, Tom Stoppard adds an extraordinary twist to the ever popular mystery genre with these two efforts.
"Concerts At Noon" offers students and the public a chance to enjoy a variety of events during the lunch hour and in fact they invite you to bring a bag lunch if you wish, just as long as it doesn't go "snapcrackle-pop!" These events are held in the Clarke Chapel with free admission. The musical comedy, "The Perfect Wife" was the October 17 offering, which was directed by James Denton and Gary Boerckel. "Humor and Music" performed by Crystal Reid, Gary Boerckel and Konrad Owens will be the next luncheon offering on Friday, November 7. The final program for November will present Lycoming students in a recital of instrumental and vocal music at noon on Friday, November 21.
The November calendar of events at Lycoming College is full of interesting and diverse offerings. In addition to the "Concerts At Noon," on Sunday, November 9 at 3 p.m., the Lycoming College Artist Series will hold its first concert of the 1997-98 season with its presentation of the "Vivaldi Orchestra of Moscow" at the Community Arts Center. The charming "Pippin" with book by Roger O. Hirson and music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz will be staged in the Arena Theatre on November 13 to 15 and 19 to 22 at 8 p.m. The Lycoming College Concert Band, under the direction of Diane Janda will be in concert on Friday, November 14 in the Clarke Chapel. A Senior Recital by Jessica Godek will be presented on Saturday, November 22 in Clarke Chapel. Both vocal and music for the violin will be included in her program. "Symphony Sundays" will open is 1997-98 season on November 23 when the Williamsport Symphony Orchestra Concertmaster, Kenneth Sarch, violinist and Gary Boerckel, piano will perform a program of Bloch, Bartok, Franck, Kreisler and Saraste.
For additional information and reservations, please call the Lycoming College Box Office at (717) 321-4048 which is open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
The Central Community Concerts will present its initial offering of the 1997-98 season, with the "Russian Seasons Dance Company" on Tuesday, November 25, at 8 p.m., on the stage of the Shamokin High School. The program, "A Celebration of World Dance" takes the audience on a journey through the folk dances of many nations, from the athletic hopek of Russia and the wild energy of the Gypsy to the passionate flamenco of Spain and the tango of Argentina. This is a breathtaking display of dance pyrothechnics by Moiseyev-trained company, the only one in the world. For additional information or to order tickets, contact Central Community Concert, Inc., 52 East Independence Street, Shamokin, PA 17872 or call (717) 648-3931.
Broadway comes to Broadway (in Milton PA that is) on Friday, November 28 at 8 p.m. when the Rogers and Hammerstein classic musical "Carousel" opens on the stage of The Grand Candlelight Theatre in Rockwell Center. It's a powerful story of family love. After swaggering carnival barker Billy Bigelow is killed in a desperate attempt to provide for his family, he is granted one more day on Earth, his only chance for redemption. Only now, his daughter grown, Billy must come full circle as the father he never was. Can he inspire his lonely daughter to have confidence in herself? Some of the most beautiful songs in music theatre history are featured, such as "If I Loved You" and "You'll Never Walk Alone." The show will run from November 28 to December 20. This is the perfect way to celebrate the holiday season. For additional information on times and to make your reservation, call the ticket office at (800) 355-3099.
To all my readers who are interested in the theatre: If you would like to affiliate with a very active amateur theatrical group, the Valley Players would love to have you join them. The Players are one of the oldest organizations in our area having been founded in 1970. The group meets the second Wednesday of every month at 7:30 p.m. at the Susquehanna Valley Country Club which is located between Shamokin Dam and Selinsgrove. For additional information call Norm Lauer at (717) 374-7513 or Tom Beiter, Jr. at (717) 275-8611.
Choices, choices, there is always so many wonderful and varied forms of entertainment to choose from here in Central Pennsylvania. The Valley Nights always brings to you the latest and best information on what is happening here in the Valley, so look for us and pick up your free copy. We'll be looking for you!

Family Foot Lights (December '97)

BTE's "A Christmas Carol"

The holiday season between Halloween and New Years ushers in the most and finest family and children's entertainment in plays, concerts and the dance. The year 1997 is no exception.
On Halloween night, I had the pleasure of attending a performance of Edgar Allan Poe's (1804-1849), "The Fall of the House of Usher," presented by the Shikellamy Children's Theatre. My flight down and up to the lower level of the John R. Kauffman, Jr. Public Library in Sunbury was well worth my reward of an evening of delightful entertainment, put forth by the young thespians of the Middle School, who live in the Shikellamy School District.
Hardly a line was missed or forgotten and their projection was excellent. Credit for this outstanding performance goes to its director Dodie Rippon, as well as the many hours of hard work by the junior actors. While each of the characters was well cast, Matthew Pickering, who played the part of the Stranger who was a fugitive from the storm, gave a stellar performance. Sometimes overlooked was the excellent work done by the props department in collecting the necessary props that were needed. Transition from scene to scene was exceedingly smooth. Really great show!
For family entertainment, it would be hard to top the production of "Aladdin" on the boards of the Grand Candlelight Theatre at Rockwell Center in Milton, on November 1. Book and lyrics by Jim Eiler with music by Jim Eiler and Jeanne Bargy turned a story from the "Arabian Nights" into a whimsical oriental musical fantasy. Roger Ricker, who played the part of the Chinese Stage Manager, stole the show much to the delight of the young audience.
In keeping with the season, the attending children were to appear in their finest Halloween costumes. Following a walk-around on stage, the audience gave the first place award to Fallon Headings daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Jay Headings of Catawissa, who strutted in her hand-sewn butterfly costume. Second place went to Connor Bell of Winfield, who was dressed as Cruella Deville from "101 Dalmatians." Nicholas Butto of Danville, whose costume was a ringing mobile phone, captured third prize.
With Halloween over and the costumes carefully tucked away for another year, our thoughts and plans turn to family entertainment for the balance of the holiday season.
On Thursday, December 4, the Bloomsburg Theatre Ensemble will present its opening night of Charles Dickens' classic, "A Christmas Carol," at the Alvina Krause Theatre in Bloomsburg. Each holiday season for the past 20 years, the B.T.E. has staged this heart warming story of Ebenezer Scrooge and the ghosts who teach him the real meaning of the holidays. As adapted by Gerard Stropnicky, B.T.E.'s "A Christmas Carol" is a faithful retelling of Dickens' timeless story. Scrooge is a crabby old skinflint whose heart is as cold as a winter night and as hard as stone until he receives some "spiritual" visitors on Christmas Eve. The ghosts give him one last chance at redemption, and when night gives way to Christmas morning, Scrooge's transformation is as miraculous as it ever was.
With plenty of holiday carols arranged by William Decker, B.T.E.'s "A Christmas Carol" is a magical and musical story the whole family can share. Performances will run from December 4 to 21: Thursdays at 7 p.m., Fridays at 8 p.m., Saturdays at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. and Sundays at 3 p.m. For additional information and ticket reservations, call the B.T.E. box office at (717) 784-8181 or 1-800-282-0283.
Why not take an afternoon off from your Christmas shopping and take the children down to see a performance of the award winning musical, "Babes in Toyland?" Always a holiday favorite, this production will be presented by the Children's Theatre at the Dutch Apple Theatre in Lancaster. Running from December 5 to January 10, this delightful show appeals to both the young and the young at heart. Call (717) 898-1900 for information and reservations.
The Children's Chorus of the Susquehanna Valley Chorale will present its winter concert on Saturday, December 6, starting at 4 p.m. in the First Presbyterian Church, Lewisburg. Inquiries about the Children's Chorus can be made in care of the Susquehanna Valley Chorale Children's Chorus, Box 31, Winfield, PA 17889.
The Williamsport Ballet Guild presents the Williamsport Civic Ballet Company's production of Peter Ilyich Tchaikovsky's "The Nutcracker," opus 71. The performance will be held Saturday, December 6 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, December 7 at 4 p.m. in the grand Williamsport Community Arts Center on Fourth Street in Williamsport. The year 1997 marks the 35th consecutive year that the Ballet Company has performed this traditional favorite.
Written in 1891, this delightful ballet in two acts and three scenes, was first performed in 1892 at St. Petersburg. Tchaikovsky's other outstanding ballet scores include "Swan Lake" and "Sleeping Beauty." Proceeding the Sunday performance, at 2:15 p.m. the Ballet Company will host a "Nutcracker Tea" where theatre goers will be able to meet the performers. For ticket information and reservations, call (717) 323-2953 or 742-3194.
For an afternoon of family fun, attend the 1 p.m. matinee of the "Paper Bag Players" at the Weis Center for the Performing Arts, on the campus of Bucknell University. The Player's production of "The Big Sleepover" was written and directed by Judith Martin. This event is open to the public without charge through the generosity of Janet Weis.

Frank Grace and the Detonators

WILLIAMSPORT-Frank Grace and the Detonators exploded aboard the Hiawatha riverboat on Saturday evening, July 12, as they performed for a lively crowd of Sunset Concert cruisers. The nearly three-hour cruise provided a relaxing getaway and an alternative weekend night out for all involved.
Some of Pennsylvania's best attractions, such as Yuengling Beer, fine food from Franco's Lounge, and and entertaining blues band from Scranton, merged aboard a historic riverboat which rumbled along the calm Susquehanna,
"Williamsport has some excellent blues fans," said Frank Grace, during a brief band break aboard the Hiawatha. He noted that playing throughout the state of Pennsylvania, he recognizes fans from Williamsport who travel hundreds of miles to hear the band play.
These blues fans lived up to their name before the cruise's end, when they began to cut loose, dancing in the isles as the band played some marvelous blues.
Frank Grace and the Detonators plan to release a compact disk this October named "High Cost of the Lowdown." Grace urged the Williamsport fans to keep their ears open for a cd release party.

Friendly Fun at Feola's Fiddle Fest

The first thing our editor, Earin, said after assigning me to cover the Fiddle Contest at Feola's Shed in Benton was, "You'll love it Dean. Taking pictures and meeting people for a follow-up is a lot of fun!" Right. Now let me get this straight. A Saturday afternoon in early October, loaded with college football and major league baseball play-off games, and I'm supposed to cover a fiddle contest. The last time I saw a fiddle was during the Pickin' and Grinnin' segment on "Hee Haw" a coon's age ago.
Thanks, Earin. There comes a time in each man's life when he must search within himself to find the strength to admit he is wrong. Ok, so I was wrong. It happens every 36 years or so.
On a beautiful Autumn afternoon I was fortunate enough to be a part of small town America that Norman Rockwell would have been proud to capture on canvas. Along a winding country road, surrounded by hills and fields and foliage mosaics created by nature herself, we (my wife Karen, daughter Sara and I) found Ivy Farm, thanks to eye-catching roadside advertising and a set of perfect directions given to me by Lorraine Feola.
After parking, we made our way to the contest grounds led by the pleasant and distinctive strains of fiddle music carried on a soft autumn breeze. We moseyed around the corner of a building, inside of which were located several small dining tables and the Hamline Church foodstand offering hamburgers, hot dogs, hot sausage, homemade pies and other baked goods, all of which made for a comfortable atmosphere and an appetizing lunch.
Directly adjacent to this structure was the antique and gift shop, open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. every Saturday until Christmas, where the three of us made several purchases. The front porch of this shop was being used as a stage for the contest. A crowd of 60 to 70 people relaxed in lawn chairs and on the ground while enjoying the entertainment. And entertaining it was! Although only four contestants vied for the three prizes, the music was plentiful. We were treated to gospel and bluegrass, a civil war tune and an Irish song. There was even a faithful rendition of the theme song from, "The Beverly Hillbillies," the last verse of which was sung by Joe Feola doing a wonderful impersonation of Donald Duck.
A friendlier group of people would have been hard to find. Joe, Lorraine and their daughter Kristin (I hope I have the correct spelling; if not, I apologize), were extremely approachable and gracious when answering questions concerning the event and names of participants. A certain Mrs. Covington freely offered the names of her children and details as to the family's acquisition of a gentle horse named Paul, at that moment tied to and relaxing under the shade of a tree. It seems Paul was not large enough for a career in Amish farm work but has found a good home with the Covingtons.
As for the contest, winners were chosen according to audience applause and judges' votes. Admittedly, my own ear for music is untrained, but the audience seemed to agree with me as we all applauded each contestant. I did not envy the judges' task.
Paul Riffin of Hazleton took the first place check worth $75. Seventy-eight-year-old Len Erbe of Barnesville received $50 for second place and Ralph Jones of Williamsport claimed third place and $25.
Due to other commitments, we reluctantly left after the winners were announced, having spent almost two hours enjoying ourselves immensely. The musicians, however, had been encouraged to stay for a jam session and the audience was in no hurry to see the afternoon come to an end. This was only the 2nd Annual Contest. I am quite certain the event will grow with each year. We should all be fortunate enough to spend such a leisurely and entertaining afternoon with such neighborly people. Thanks, Earin.

From the Editor

Welcome 1998. I sure hope you turn out to be a much better year than 1997 and that's all I'm going to say on that subject!
Now that I got that off my mind . . . February is going to be an exciting month! Just turn the pages and you'll see I'm right! For example, there's Valentine's Day. Normally I'd say "big deal" but the Zendogs will be touring our area this month and they'll be at New Shore Acres on that very day. I can't wait to see them. Need I say more? I hope to see you there. Also, Williamsport will be holding its annual Mardi Gras. I didn't make it there last year but this year, watch out! I've been told by many it's a lot of fun. I hope all of you can make it so that you may experience this exciting event. Plus there's so much more going on to keep you active in these long winter months.
Talk about winter months; where's the snow?! Yes, I'm one of those crazy people who just can't get enough snow. Since this winter is so far turning out to be kind of strange, what do you think the odds are that we're in for a stranger Spring? Think about it!
Once again I had the privilege of catching some amazing talent during the month of January. The Susquehanna Valley is packed full of it. The bands I caught were Emily's Toybox (and I must say I had a great time), Slowlane and Jonathan Edward's Drum Circle, just to mention a few. If I haven't caught your act yet, I will. I try to make it a point to attend all performances, but as you know, there's so many of them and it will take me awhile to get everywhere, but I will!
I want to remind everyone to send in their vote for their favorite bartender. Although I am finally beginning to receive more votes, you won't see your favorite appear unless you send in your nomination. Remember, I am an equal opportunity kind of gal and I'll travel to "timbukto" just to get that photo and interview from any deserving bartender! So, get those letters in now. Be sure to check out our advertisers, stop in and say hi. Without them, Valley Nights wouldn't be possible. Through continued support, they're the ones who keep this paper going. Tell them you saw it in Valley Nights.
As always, I urge everyone to let me know about anything coming your way. I also welcome any comments you may have. Just drop me a line at: Valley Nights, Attn: Earin Vitacolonna, P.O. Box 393, Lewisburg, PA 17837-0392. Take a look inside and see what all the Susquehanna Valley has to offer.

Gene Watson in Concert
For the first time in the history of The Grand Candlelight Theatre at Rockwell Center in Milton, they will host an outside production company when Gene Watson gives two benefit concerts on Saturday, November 8 at 2:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
Country music star Gene Watson is a singer's singer who can't read a note of music and doesn't even rehearse, yet he is one of the most respected stylists in his field and a man of the people. His hits include "Love in the Hot Afternoon," "Farewell Party," Fourteen Carat Mind," "Paper Rosie," among others. Watson can wring every last drop of emotion out of a note with the tiniest vocal inflection and turn a word into an essay of pain. He is as intimate as a lover in his lower register and his grins turn the whole world sunshine yellow.
The opening act of this terrific country music show will be 11-yearold singing sensation Crystal Marie who will be in concert in our area for the first time.
The concert is sponsored by Big Country Radio (WYGL AM/FM, WLGL FM, WWBE FM) and the Harness Horse Retirement and Youth Association, Inc., of Pennsylvania.
The Harness Horse Retirement and Youth Association, Inc. (HHRYA) is a non-profit, all volunteer organization founded in 1984 and operated by fellow horsemen specializing in placing retired Standardbreed Racehorses in adoptive homes.
HHRYA places horses in loving homes throughout the country, such as 4-H competitors, pleasure companions, search and rescue partners, police officers, among others. The objectives of the organization are to promote, foster and provide for the equine well being. In addition, they offer educational programs to the public promoting and fostering knowledgeable and responsible equine care. The very active Youth Association not only furthers these ideals, but also introduces the youth to the sport of Harness Racing with actual hands-on experiences.
HHRYA is funded strictly through private donations, grants and fund raising activities such as this, their fourth annual country music concert. For further information or questions on this most worthwhile organization, call Anne McCloskey, (717) 725-7979.
To reserve your ticket(s) or additional information for this outstanding country music show, call Mike Holman at the Grand Candlelight Theatre at (800) 355-3099 or stop by the box office at 32 South Turbot Avenue in Milton.

How to Survive the Music Industry

This article is for all musicians who think, "I just can't seem to get a break." You know who you are. You're the one's who are saying, "If someone would just hire me, I know I could make a name for myself."
It's true! If you don't get hired, you don't play. So, how do you get to play that first great gig? Don't talk about it; just do it. But, to do it right you need a plan and I'm going to help you get one.
Step one: Learn how to play! Just because you know every riff, that doesn't make you a star. Riffs are not songs; they are parts of a song! So first, learn the whole song from beginning to end, backwards and forward, up and down, inside and out. If you can't learn it on your own, there are some great teachers available. Try your favorite music store. There are some advertised right here in Valley Nights.
Next, learn a lot of songs! Just because you know a few cool tunes, that doesn't give you enough material to go out and do a four hour gig. Yes! I said four hours. Most places will book you for at least three hours so you'll need at least five to six hours of music so your show doesn't get stale.
You must plan your song list to include three basic types of music; fast, slow and feature songs. Choose songs that your audience can listen or dance to. Some people, especially women, still like to dance. Why do you think DJ's get the jobs and you don't. Because DJ's play dance music! You must keep the entire crowd satisfied.
Now that you can play a song from beginning to end without having to take a break for a chord change; your fingers are bleeding profusely all over your instruments; you have a song list 12 hours long with all three types of music; and your voice sounds like Mickey Mouse because you've practiced everyday for the last nine months, it's time to have your baby. Let's try to get your first big gig!
The first thing you need is a demo tape; just a simple cassette tape. Studio quality is nice but it's not absolutely necessary. Live is best. Choose about three songs you do well from the three categories I mentioned. The first one should be a really cooking fast song; the best one you do. This will get the attention of the person you're trying to sell it to. The second song could be a ballad or slow song. The third can be just about anything; original if you have one or something that features you or your band's style.
Next, check out the rags (Valley Nights is a good place to start). See who is hiring what kind of music. Go to a couple of different places and catch the show.
Meet the owner and find out if he or she would like to hear your demo. Make sure your boom box works and has fresh batteries. There's nothing more embarrassing than saying, "Listen to this" and having your player eat your tape or spit it out at the owner at 200 miles per hour!
If you have to audition, once again, pick your three best songs.
Next, be on time for your audition; preferably one hour before show time. It is not cool to be fashionably late. Club owners are very busy and don't have much spare time.
Set up quickly and quietly. If you're using your own gear, know how to run it; if not, find someone who does. Take the bare essentials only. It takes up too much time to mic up an entire system. This is only an audition. You do not need to have full stage volume or set ups. Keep it simple, do a quick sound check and do it to it!
Sometimes the only way you will get hired is performing at an open mic night. Most open mic nights are great if they are used the right way; to audition new acts for possible hire. Once again, set up quickly and quietly and do your best with the least amount of equipment. Open mic nights are usually hosted by a band or sound person. So, be nice and cooperate with them. Don't be obnoxious if it doesn't sound like you think it should. It's their system so you are at their mercy. Be professional!
Get up, do a few songs then sit down. There's others out there who are trying and are just as nervous as you are. Be cool and give them a chance too.
If you've done a few open mics and still have not been hired, find somewhere else to play. Chances are the owner is only looking for free entertainment and that's not right. You've worked hard to put your show together and you should get paid for it. I'm not saying this happens frequently. There are a number of great places offering open mic night where you will get the break you need.
Now, what's a good price to charge for your show? Many new acts, be it a single, duet or full band either overcharge the club owner or don't charge them enough because they just want to play.
There are two dangers with these concepts. If you charge too much, you'll never play again. If you don't charge enough, or worse, don't charge anything, you may just end up playing freebies for the rest of your life. This is not only bad for you, but it makes it hard for others who are trying to make a living out of playing. So, how much do I charge?
That question will be answered next month in this column, along with actual interviews with club owners who have their own idea how much you're actually worth.
Other topics will be: The dangers of smooth talking agents and how much percentage they really deserve. Equipment: Buy? Lease? Rent? How much is too much to spend? Sound and light production: When is it necessary? How much should it cost? Taking the show to the road or just play local and how to do it well.
Any questions write to: Valley Nights, Editor/Survival, P.O. Box 392, Lewisburg, PA 17837-0392.

How to Survive The Music Industry Part III

Sound equipment: buy or rent? There are many horror stories about buying equipment for bands. How big a system? What kind of power? What's good; what's not? How much should you spend? Finally, who owns what? That's the hardest question. It's good to look at all the options before making a decision as to buy or rent a good PA system.
First, is your band doing this as a part-time endeavor or is this going to be a full-time commitment? Don't be foolish and just go out and buy something. You have to plan it out. Buy exactly what you need or you'll be spending a lot of money for nothing.
If you're just a bunch of weekend warriors, with one or two weekend jobs a month, it's best to rent. This way, if you're playing a big show and need extra power, you can rent a bigger system. Or if you're just doing a small club, then you can get away with a small system, which in the long run, will save you headaches and money.
Let's talk systems. The best system to have consists of components: an amplifier, a sound board and speakers. There are two good reasons for this type of system. One is expandability, the other is down time. Expandable systems are essential if you do many different kinds of gigs. Need more power? Rent a bigger amp! Need more imputs? Rent a bigger board! Need more sound dispersal? Rent bigger speakers! Down time is very simple. If a component breaks down (and they do), you can rent another piece to take its place. So renting does have big advantages. The only disadvantage is cost! Big component systems are expensive to rent or purchase. The average full blown system with effects, mics and accessories can cost anywhere from $300 to $500 a month to rent, or as high as $3000 to $5000 to purchase.
There is a way to have exactly what you need without having to put out a ton of money; hire a production company. There's a lot of good ones out there, but watch your budget! Some offer different systems for different prices. If you're playing for the door or only getting $150 to $250 for the gig, you can't really afford to hire a production company at $200, now can you!
When looking for a production company, call a few of them and ask for best rates and options. Most of them will be willing to give you a break (they have to work too). If you decide on a production company, ask for references and contracts. You're only protecting yourself. There's nothing worse than showing up at a gig and your so-called bargain sound company is late, or worse, doesn't show up at all. Scary, isn't it?
Option number two: break down and buy a system. What's the best way to buy a system? Believe it or not, finance it! Yes, I'm not crazy. Financing is the safest and most economical way to handle it. Unless you are loaded with money and can buy the system out right by yourself, financing is the best.
Let's look at the whole picture! You have three of four members in the band. The old way of thinking was that each member purchase something individually. That's fine if the band never breaks up but bands always break up. So, if the drummer bought the amp, the guitar player bought the board, you bought the speakers and the band breaks up, each of you is leaving with a piece of the pie. Not good! That's why financing is the best.
Financing is a contract with a lender of money. They don't care if you fire Jimmy or hire Johnny; they just want their money at the same time each month. It's like renting a system for half the price of rent. That's good.
Now the first step is to get a lawyer to sit down with you and talk about contract law and default clauses. That will help you decide real quick that financing is the way to go. If you run the band like a business, it will work very well. That way, if Jimmy or Johnny leaves, they have no claim to the equipment. When you hire replacements, they automatically assume their financial responsibility. That way the band keeps working and nothing is lost.
What is financial responsibility? As in any business, you've got to pay to play. Work out a payment schedule by the month for each member, divide that by the number of gigs per month and that's that! Simple, no questions asked, business as usual. If any of your members squabble about it, then they don't want a band very much and you don't need freeloaders when you're trying to make money.
What if the band breaks up for good? Good question and hears the answer! Either sell out the system to one or two of the band members for the remainder of the finance contract or find another band who is willing to refinance for the remainder of the term. You may say, "Hey, we're losing money!" No, you're not. You've made your money already; you're just getting out of the band with no burden of continuing payments. That's business. But I can't stress this enough: get a lawyer!!! That way, there will be no questions.
I've had good feedback from some of our readers which will be addressed in next month's issue. If you have any questions; please send them to Valley Nights, c/o Earin/survival, PO Box 392, Lewisburg PA, 178370392. Thank you.
Next month: more comments from the club owners. How to promote your band. Agents and advertising.

Nestled amid the trees and mountains of the Susquehanna Valley lies a town that is enjoying anything but those lazy days of summer. Instead, they're sweeping off the sidewalks, setting up the stage and selling tickets to the Fifth Annual Jerseytown Bluegrass Festival.
Bluegrass fans from all over the area will be heading to Jerseytown, PA on July 3 to 6, to see and hear the performances of some of bluegrass music's topnotch bands. Over twelve different bands will be entertaining at this year's Festival. Some of those include the famous RALPH STANLEY & THE CLINCH MOUNTAIN BOYS, FREDDY CLARK & THE CLARK FAMILY and THE RENO BROTHERS. The FOX HILL BAND, THE SHY BOYS, and THE DIVELY FAMILY will also take the stage that weekend.
If you don't want to miss a single minute of the action, bring your RV or tent and camp in the rough! Spend the entire weekend listening to your favorite groups, browsing the arts and crafts displays or shopping at the Farmer's Market.
All in all, it's a bluegrass lover's dream weekend . . . top name artists performing alongside local groups, each enjoying what they do best . . . making music!
For more information, call (717) 275-2491.

He's a graduate of Berklee College of Music in Boston. He's earned a Master of Arts degree from New York University. He's traveled the world in search of musical knowledge. Who is this famed scholarly musician? He's none other than soft-spoken, Bloomsburg native, Jonathan Edwards.
Jonathan's interest in music began early. Reminiscing, he says, "There was something about rhythm that fascinated me. Obviously, I was drawn to the drum set." He spent five years in the middle and high school bands and by the time he was 16, was playing in rock bands and traveling.
Today, Jonathan is best known for his solo ZenDrum performances. What is a ZenDrum? It's the world's most sophisticated MIDI percussion trigger. According to Jonathan, the instrument is made in Atlanta and the company is around two-years-old. The owners of the company (both drum players) decided they wanted to get involved with electronic percussion and they came up with the idea of the ZenDrum.
Jonathan's interest in the unusual instrument was sparked during a visit to Atlanta. He made a call to the ZenDrum company and the owners invited him over to the factory. When he arrived, he says, "They put a ZenDrum in my lap and said, 'here, just play around for awhile.'" After a few hours of playing, he was hooked. He says, "Just like any other little kid, once I got the thing in my hands, it was like, wow, this is a really hip idea!" Not too long after, Jonathan had his own ZenDrum. Since then, he has developed a good relationship with the company and was invited to participate in a demonstration at a percussion festival, held at Berklee College of Music in Boston.
According to Jonathan, the ZenDrum Company manufactures and markets the ZenDrum as a percussion trigger, meaning that it's marketed for drum set players and percussionists who, rather than carry a whole drum set or haul a bunch of percussion instruments, they can just take the ZenDrum and a drum machine and perform.
For Jonathan, that wasn't enough. "I realized quite quickly after I got one in my hands that the potential of the instrument is way beyond that." He decided, rather than just work with percussion, why not start working with toneality, meaning pitches, strings, voices, piano sounds and whatever else he could produce; play it to its fullest potential. "To my knowledge, I'm the only one that's doing this on the ZenDrum."
The style of music he produces is very unusual due to his academic background. He explains, "What I really wanted to do was put together jazz and ethnic music and come up with my own sound." He terms that sound as improvisational/poly-ethnic/jazz. Jonathan believes that "the development of improvisational poly-ethnic music is integral to the health and well-being of the rapidly emerging global community."
He has certain sounds that he works with on a regular basis but admits, "I never know at any given performance what direction I'm going to go in and that's the zen of it, the zen of it is being here now. That's the way I improvise. I just put myself in the moment." He says that no two performances are alike.
He was also determined to add jazz into his style because "jazz is American music." Jonathan says, "This is something that is important to me because scholars around the world tend to agree that jazz is America's most important contribution to the world of Arts." He continues, "Being an American, even though I am fascinated with ethnic music, I wanted to put the two together and create what essentially is now called 'world fashion music.'"
Jonathan claims jazz is more popular in almost every other country than it is here in America. "That's a shame; it's a crime," he says with disappointment. "This is our music, our tradition and yet, here in America, people get such an attitude about jazz." In his experiences, especially in Europe, if he was at a party or club and let it be known he was a jazz musician, he would get the same reaction as if he said he were a doctor or a lawyer. "You have their complete attention."
By Jonathan's account, the interesting thing that separates the U.S. from other cultures, especially Asian, is that they look at art as the most necessary part of life. It is a necessary everyday thing. He says that in the U.S., they look at art as something that's not real important. They don't realize it is. "Art is a necessary luxury to all." The musician has balanced academics with field study and likes his life. He says that although he's an academic, he's certainly not "nerdy!" His studies have led him all over the world, to places such as Europe, Australia, Bali, Scandanavia and the south of France. He's lived in villages with only one phone, lizards crawling around your room, no sewage, you can't drink the water and where the only way to get around is by foot or bicycle. All of this in the pursuit of musical knowledge.
According to Jonathan, there is an Asian belief system that says, "We must, especially musicians and artists, remain eternal students." He says that doesn't just apply to musicians. "I think that applies to everyone in general. Once you cease to be willing to learn, then are you still really alive?"
In the U.S., his willingness to learn has certainly strengthened him. Not only does he play the ZenDrum, but the saxophone and a variety of ethnic percussion instruments as well. He has recorded various film scores, including The Discovery Channel's "How the West was Lost." He has performed and recorded with numerous jazz, blues, ethnic and improvisational artists. Jonathan also spent a year on the road with "The Fabulous Blue Sparks," performed in Boston with the innovative jazz and poetry group "The Artemus Ensemble," played with The Ivar Berkeland Jazz Trio in Oslo, Norway, and performed with renowned Aboriginal writer and story teller Burnam Burnam in Sydney, Australia. He has studied drum set with Bob Moses, tabla with master Shyam Parihar from Bombay, and traveled to Bali to study gamelan with Weyan Gibral. He also founded the improvisational poly-ethnic jazz group, "Heart Like a Feather," whose first release featured world famous cellist David Darling. He has even appeared on television.
Currently, Jonathan spends much of his time with his solo ZenDrum and saxophone performance, playing in Pittsburgh Philadelphia, New York, Boston and occasionally, our area. Even though he's constantly traveling, home is still Bloomsburg. Besides his solo act, he plays on a number of CD's, plays in a Scranton based band, "Still Small Voice," and in a New York City based band, "The Threads."
If that's not enough, he teaches drum set, ethnic percussion and saxophone at Robert M. Sides, in addition to holding workshops.
Pleasing an audience is very important to Jonathan. "I feel like I've done my job if I can bring just a few moments of happiness to even one person in any place I play." He feels his job as a performer is to make people happy because that's what music is supposed to do. Modestly, he says, "I am just lucky enough and very grateful that I've been placed in the position where I've been able to go out and play music. One of the ways that I show my gratitude is to be nice, be appreciative, talk to people, show up on time and dress well. Just because you're a musician doesn't mean that you're any better than anybody else." And just how does Jonathan manage to keep up with everything and stay so young? "Every year I read the Little Prince because it keeps me from turning into a grown-up. It's the kind of book that helps you get a different perspective on life and it kind of takes a little bit of that weight off your shoulders and brings some of those childlike qualities back to you. If I have any advice for young musicians, read the Little Prince!"

Millbrook Playhouse "Child's Play"

At the Millbrook Playhouse in Mill Hall, PA, actors and actresses are reaching out to children and transplanting them to the magical world of the theater, via workshops, plays and Mark Twain.
Children, as well as adults, will delight in the opportunity of meeting Mark Twain, America's most beloved storyteller, in Lisa Humbertson's "Mark Twain: The Master of Imagination." They will recognize and welcome back their favorite characters like Aunt Polly, Tom Sawyer and Huck Finn as they hear their stories told as only Mark Twain himself could tell them. Glen Beck, who plays the role of Tom Sawyer says, "I think children will like meeting and interacting with literary characters that are familiar to them." Chances are that adults will find it pretty interesting as well. Families can check out this riveting production, July 5 at 11 a.m.
Besides putting on great plays and shows, the Millbrook Playhouse is offering a unique opportunity to children ages 8 to 13 this summer. For three weeks, children can experience the world of theater in a special workshop taught by company members. Joanne Bouton, Founder/Artistic Director of Theatreworks...Live!, a non-profit theatre program for children which provides enrichment through the performing arts, will be leading the workshop. Students will study costumes, make-up and set design, as well as prepare a production of Golliwhoppers!, a show about American folklore. A performance will conclude this fun-filled session, giving children a chance to participate first-hand. According to the Playhouse, there is a limited number of spaces available, so those interested must sign up soon. The workshop is being held July 14 to 18, July 21 to 25 and July 28 to August 1, with the performance, August 2.
The Millbrook Playhouse offers something for the whole family in their Family Night Series. Here, families can watch puppet shows, dance, mime storytelling and much more while spending quality time together. Jeanine Howe, Artistic Director of the Millbrook Playhouse sums up the goals of the Playhouse, "I believe strongly in family. I want to involve entire families." For more information about theater activities for children, contact the Millbrook Playhouse Box Office at (717) 748-8083.

Nameless Fear

Neon Cactus

What do Hank Williams Sr. and local band Neon Cactus have in common? The well-known and musically respected McNett name of course! Personable Robin McNett, whose dad played for Hank, is front lady in the Montgomery/ Muncy based band Neon Cactus.
The band is made up of six friendly and humorous individuals who play contemporary and a few traditional country tunes. They are: lead vocalist Robin McNett . . .acoustic guitar and percussion. Bill Engel . . . electric and acoustic guitars, mandolin and fiddle. Dave Hummel . . . bass guitar. Billy Matlack Jr . . . drums and percussion. Al Petersen . . . piano, keyboards, and harmonica. Easy Mark Tomeo. . . Pedal steel guitar, dobro, electric slide and acoustic guitars. Everyone in the band lends their voice in vocals.
The band's formation was "almost like fate," says Robin. They had known each other from playing in other bands for years. They had been friends and worked together; it all came together in the Fall of '94 with the formation of Neon Cactus.
Neon Cactus is no stranger to the music industry. As individuals, they have performed with and opened for some of country music's finest, such as: Diamond Rio, George Strait, Neal McCoy, Bill Anderson and many more. As Neon Cactus, they have opened for Lee Roy Parnell, Merle Haggard, The Bellamy Brothers and Mel McDaniel.
Merle Haggard left the biggest influence on Bill E. He says, "That was probably the best day for Neon Cactus! They treated us super! No one compares to Merle Haggard."
Their performance at Remembrance Day '96, a benefit held in memory of the 21 Montoursville students and chaperones aboard TWA Flight 800, was a day to be treasured. They sang their original "Love Lives On," along with the Montoursville Area High School Chorus; it was their first time together on stage. The single cassette of the ballad, written by Al Petersen, was sold in stores and by students (who accordingly sold a good portion of them). All proceeds benefit the Memorial Fund.
The band also showcased at the County Fair Trade Show held in Hershey in January of '97. Bill E. exclaims, "I even got some fiddle lessons from Aaron Tippin's fiddle player!"
That's an accomplishment for Bill E., who has only been playing the fiddle for a short time. According to Robin, the one thing the band lacked was a fiddle. Robin exclaims, "We have been so proud of Bill. He decided he was going to play it; he picked it up and now . . . he's playing! He does a great job!"
Aside from their popularity on stage, the band does have their funnier moments! "It's all Billy Matlack," claims Robin and Bill E.! "He's the one who gets us in trouble!" They point out the time they ran out of gas about five miles from home. "That was okay, but a week later it happened again," proclaims Robin! She asks, "Have you ever tried to find gas in Tioga County at 12:30am?" Luckily, after driving 25 miles they found gas but had nothing to put it in. What did they use? A cooler!
Robin and Bill E. tell of another incident that occurred at the Merle Haggard show. They say Billy had a problem with his pants; they didn't fit right. It was time to go on stage and Robin says, "He had to wear them during the first show!" The problem? Billy was wearing Robin's pants!
These fun-loving musicians do have goals and expectations. Robin says, "We are in the process of doing a four-song cassette consisting of originals written by Al Petersen." They'd love to do a full CD eventually.
Robin, who has lived in Nashville previously off and on says, "I've always had a dream of going back." She says right now she enjoys what they're doing, which is "having fun on stage." She comments, "We want to be the best we can be, be proud of what we're doing and I am proud of these guys. We've come together with something that clicks and works. It's a good feeling."
Bill E. says, "I think my ultimate goal would be just to have people recognize Neon Cactus; to be a really good country band."
The band has a fan club and a special lady running it who they are especially fond of. Her name is Sara Nienhueser. Robin says, "She does so much for us. She's a big help!" If you would like information about the Neon Cactus annual fan club picnic, or any information, write to Neon Cactus, PO Box 293, Muncy PA 17756.

The Rise, Fall and Second Coming of the Capital Theatre

Almost 70 years ago, on October 22, 1928, the Capital Theatre in Williamsport opened its doors for the first time. This magnificent movie palace was built in the downtown section of the city on a site of what was once the home of the Sterling Hotel. This landmark hostelry which was well known in the area for its hospitality, food and service was partially destroyed by fire in 1924.
After acquiring the hotel property, Mr. M. E. Comerford, president of the Comerford Amusement Company announced that he would construct the finest movie house in Central Pennsylvania and make Williamsport the movie and vaudeville capital of the area. True to his word, the Capital Theatre was the largest and most dazzling in the Comerford chain.
No expense was spared in its design and decoration. Built in the tradition of the great entertainment palaces of the "big city," materials were secured in all parts of the world, while accent pieces were commissioned here and abroad.
The orchestra pit was dominated by a specially designed theatre organ. With the "sound of brass and tinkling cymbal," it could not only be heard as a great church organ but with the flick of a switch, it became an entire orchestra at the command of a single musician. Its magnificent sounds were brought to life on its great console of four manuals plus foot pedals and hundreds of switches, tabs and pre-sets. It entertained the audience before and after the show and was designed to enhance the dying era of the "silent movies" and the many and varied vaudeville acts on stage. This sleeping giant was silenced forever in its watery grave caused by the great flood of 1936 when the first floor and stage were covered with a foot or more of water from the mighty Susquehanna River.
The Capital boasted the finest projection equipment by Vitaphone and Movietone. Its stage, unlike many others built for only movies, was built to the latest theatrical standards with special lighting effects for use by a solo performer or entire production company. At the master control board, the stage and auditorium could be changed from a single flood light by night to a dazzling noon time bright. From behind the ornate grills on either side of the stage came the sounds of the great organ or those of Williamsport's first "talkie" movie performance on its grand opening night. The Capital Theatre boasted two showings of Al Jolson's "The Singing Fool."
Like today, the Capital Theatre then was not only a movie palace but an entertainment mecca, with entertainer greats like Gene Krupa, Xavier, Cugat, Blackstone the Magician and the Three Stooges. History repeats itself with the Williamsport Community Arts Center presenting David Copperfield the Magician and the sounds of the "big band" with the River City Brass Band, and soon to come, a "Gershwin Celebration," while once in a while the Three Stooges again appear on screen and perhaps an old Charlie Chaplan flick.
Was the great flood of 1936 the start of the Capital's decline? I am not sure but by the end of the Second World War, it was on a nonstop course to oblivion. Television and video movies all took their toll, along with a succession of owners until June 27, 1990, when the 62-yearold theatre was lit for its final show, "Driving Miss Daisy," at 7:30 p.m. and at 9:30 p.m., the final curtain came down.
While the Capital Theatre arose on the ashes of the glamorous Hotel Sterling, the theatre had a second coming with the purchase of the property by The Pennsylvania College of Technology. The college restored the aging queen of the Comerford chain back to its original glory and transformed the theatre into the Williamsport Community Arts Center.
Much credit should be given to the committees which insisted on reclaiming this former beauty queen to its present state. Blood, sweat and tears went into its renovations. Entering the lobby today you are at once transported back 70 years as you see how the theatre has been painstakingly restored and renewed. Countless hours have gone into the project and almost lost crafts of doing detailed decorating have been revived in its restoration.
While I was not yet a gleam in my father's eye at the time of the original grand opening, I did have the pleasure of attending the second grand opening on May 8, 1993 when Skitch Henderson was guest with The New York Pops. In the past five years, I have been privileged to attend many and varied programs and productions. If you have not had the pleasure of attending a performance, stop by the box office and pick up a calendar of events and learn what this renewed "Grand Dame" has to offer. You might be surprised that they offer something for everyone. As I always say, "hope to see you there; look for me, I'll be looking for you."

Seasonal Fun - Valentine's Day

No matter how hard I try, I simply cannot get excited about Valentine's Day. Maybe it's because I'm still suffering from the postChristmas blues. Maybe it's because February 14th comes in the middle of a winter season that seems to last longer every year. Maybe it's because my wife's birthday is February 13th and I know she's wondering whether or not to expect two gifts.
I don't know. Whatever the reason, I always tend to view Valentine's Day as a very minor event; a pseudo-holiday created by greeting card companies whose sole intent is to rake in tons of green backs by alleviating feelings of guilt (which, by the way, they created) through the purchase of their love-professing, lace trimmed, sickeningly sweet verse filled, over priced pieces of colored and folded cardboard. Yeah, you bet it's okay to look on the back for the Hallmark name. Then look at the price, return the card to its proper shelf, go home and make plans to serve your wife breakfast in bed on the morning of the 14th.
Personally, I always associate Valentine's Day with the 1929 machine gun massacre of Bugs Moran's gang members in a Chicago north-side garage. Talk about your heartfelt greetings! However, I understand that most people opt for the hearts and flowers bit. So with them in mind, here is a brief history of Valentine's Day.
Authorities are divided when it comes to attributing Valentine's Day to specific origins. Some trace it to an ancient Roman festival (isn't it always?) called Lupercalia. This festival, held on February 15, was to ensure protection from wolves. During the celebration, young men would hit women with strips of animal hide. The women accepted the whipping, believing it made them more fertile. Valentine's Day is linked with Lupercalia because of the closeness of the dates and the connection with
fertility.
Other experts connect Valentine's Day with one or more saints of the early Christian church. There were at least two saints named Valentine. One story says that in the 3rd century A.D., the Roman Emperor Claudius II would not allow young men to marry, believing that single men made better soldiers. A priest named Valentine disobeyed the order and secretly married young couples, earning him a date with death on February 14, 269 A.D. In 496 A.D., Saint Pope Gelasius named February 14 as St. Valentine's Day.
Another story says that an early Christian named Valentine made friends with many children. Valentine refused to worship the Roman gods, for which he was imprisoned. During his captivity, the children threw loving notes between the bars of his cell window. Valentine is also said to have restored the sight of his jailer's blind daughter.
Still other sources link Valentine's Day with the belief that birds choose their mates on February 14. An English poet of the 14th century, Geoffrey Chaucer (author of "The Canterbury Tales"), wrote in "The Parliament of Fowls,":
For this was on St.
Valentine's Day,
When every fowl cometh
there to choose his mate.
William Shakespeare also mentions this belief in "A Midsummer Night's Dream." The character Theseus comes upon two lovers in the woods and asks:
St. Valentine is past;
Begin these wood-birds
but to couple now?
The reality is that Valentine's Day probably comes from a combination of these sources, as well as from the belief that springtime is for lovers.
Some historians credit a Frenchman named Charles, Duke of Orleans, with originating the custom of sending verses on Valentine's Day. He was captured by the English during the Battle of Agincourt in 1415 and imprisoned in England. From his cell in the Tower of London, Charles sent his wife a rhymed love letter for Valentine's Day.
The English people celebrated Valentine's Day as early as the 15th century. Some of their customs involved ways that single women could divine the identities of their future husbands. Eighteenth century English women wrote the names of men on scraps of paper, rolled them into small pieces of clay and then dropped them into water. Supposedly, the first paper to rise to the water's surface held the name of a woman's true love. Another custom of the 1700s had women pinning five bay leaves to their pillows (one on each corner and the fifth in the center) on the eve of Valentine's Day. The charm was considered successful if the women dreamt of their future husbands.
In Derbyshire county, England, a woman's true love supposedly appeared after she had circled a church 3 or 12 times at midnight and then repeated verses such as:
"I sow hempseed.
Hempseed I sow.
He that loves me best,
Come after me now."
In other places, an unmarried girl would strike her forehead with a rose petal. If the petal cracked, she knew her valentine loved her. Of course, when a girl married she could no longer take part in the romantic customs of Valentine's Day. Poet Robert Herrick wrote:
"She must no more a-
maying
Or by rosebuds divine
Who'll be her valentine."
One of the oldest customs was drawing a woman's name from a jar. The woman then became the valentine of the man who had drawn her name. Men paid special attention to their respective valentines, often giving gifts such as gloves. Fortunate valentines of wealthy men had fancy balls given in their honor. The saying "wearing his heart on his sleeve" probably came from the 18th century custom of men drawing their valentine's names and then wearing these names on their sleeves.
Handbooks called 'valentine writers' could be found in many 18th and 19th century stores. These guides included verses which could be copied and suggestions for writing personal valentines.
One custom that has survived in contemporary Britain and Italy has some unmarried women waking before sunrise on Valentine's Day. They then stand by a window watching for a man to pass. The belief is that they will marry, within a year, the first man they see, or someone who looks like him. Once again, Shakespeare mentions this in his play "Hamlet." In the play, Ophelia sings:
"Good morrow! 'Tis St.
Valentine's Day.
All in the morning
betime,
And I a maid at your
window,
To be your valentine!"
Finally, people in Denmark send pressed white flowers called snowdrops to their friends. Danish men also send a letter called a gakkebrev, which means "joking letter." This letter contains a rhyme but is not signed by the man. Instead, a series of dots is used, one dot for each letter of the man's name. If the recipient of the valentine guesses the man's name, she is given an Easter egg on Easter.
Ahh, Valentine's Day, celebrated through the centuries by lovers around the world. Well, I still don't buy it. But here's hoping you get your token of true love on February 14. And now it's time for me to say good-bye because I have to go out and find a nice card!
Sources:
* The World Book Encyclopedia, Vol. 20, pp. 204-208. 1974.
* The World Book Encyclopedia, Vol. 20, pp. 260-264. 1996.

They hold down full time jobs. They're all dedicated family men, with an uncanny sense of humor. At night, they gather to practice or play at a gig. Life in the slowlane is anything but slow for Bloomsburg based band Slowlane!
The highly motivated and energetic band, best known for their meaningful and upbeat originals, has been officially known as Slowlane since July of 1997. To get to know the band, you need to get to know the men behind the music. After learning more about them, you'll realize why these guys had me laughing the whole time I was with them.
Bloomsburg native Harry Davis, lead guitar, has been playing for 30 years. He's played in bands such as Speed Merchants, Krunch, Rob Brown Project and "that's all I care to mention," he says. By day he works in shipping and receiving and his influences are Jimmy Hendrix, Jimmy Page and Eric Clapton.
Originally from Jonestown, Glenn Hess, bassist, has been playing for 25 years and by day he's a construction worker. Other bands he's played in includes High Noon, Cruise Control, Paradox, he played for his dad, Al Hess and "other bands not worth mentioning." He says that he and Harry play in a side project called Avenue B. Who are his influences? "Every single note I've ever heard played!" he says. The others agree, "great answer!"
Bloomsburg native Dave Eisenhower, on drums, is jokingly called "the elder." "Older and wiser of course," Glenn quips. In the background you can here, "Older but I don't know about wiser!" Dave has been playing for 40 years and previous bands include Cruel 4 Days, Showdown and the Navy Band. His influences are Joe Morello, Buddy Rich and "about 500 others!" When not playing, he's a maintenance supervisor at a bank.
Keyboardist John "Webb" Kline has a specialized over the road trucking business. He's been playing about 30 years. He says, "Harry and I started out together playing, smoking cigarettes and drinking beer!" Other bands he's played in include Last Chance Band, Juice, Hybrid Ice and Cruel 4 Days. Who's his influences? "My biggest influences have probably been broken hearts (my own broken heart), Oscar Peterson, Billy Payne, Keith Emerson, Rick Wakeman and Yanni." The others join in and say Shirley Jones (keyboard) of the Partridge Family and The Archies!
Last but certainly not the least is Bloomsburg native Todd Cummings, lead vocals and acoustic guitar. He's been performing regularly (non-stop) since 1989. He actually became interested in music when he played the trumpet in high school. He then switched to guitar because of "the need to write music," he says. He's played in the duo Pete & Todd Band, which eventually evolved into Slowlane. What's his occupation? "I'm a professional role model," he exclaims and ads, "I'm a teacher." Todd teaches special education and is wrestling coach at Central Columbia. The evening I met with the band, Todd arrived late because of a wrestling match. Since he was not there, the other band members felt obligated to let me know Gandolph of The Hobbit and Tatoo of Fantasy Island were Todd's influences! In truth, his influences are songwriters. Bob Dylan was the original guy who inspired him. Also, John Hyate, John Prine, Cat Stevens, folk rock, country, rock and "non-rustic stuff.
When these talented musicians get together, they become Slowlane. Actually, Slowlane began as Pete & Todd Band, with their first CD called, Life In The Slowlane. The Pete & Todd Band split when brothers Pete and Billy Lieback went off on their own, but Todd and Glenn continued on. When Harry Joined the band in July of '97, they became Slowlane. Their new CD, The Fine Art Of Survival, was released on August 18, 1997.
The new CD is doing well and can be bought in several music venues, as well as at their gigs. Thanks to the talents of the songwriter of the band, Todd, the CD's 14 tracs capture the essence of everyday life.
The band, which plays originals, have great confidence in their work and in Todd's writing abilities. Glenn says, "Most musicians would like to be in a band that plays their own music but there's very few people that are actually good enough to write songs that you would want to play. Todd's got that knack of putting these songs together and we're just kind of jumping on his band wagon." Webb adds, "It's what we do together collectively, I think, that puts the thrust behind his words. I think his words are something that most of us can identify with so much that we kind of artistically make the music work." Are there plans for another CD? They say yes, once they have another dozen or so songs.
The band, who obviously enjoys playing for audiences, says they get rather wound up in what they're doing amongst themselves. "This band loves to stretch out," they say. "We're a jam band, where we just feed off the improvisational emotions of the moment. Sometimes the crowd really gets into it and it's just a really cool experience," says Webb. Al Sobo, a fan and friend of the band says, "As an outsider, I see these guys feed off each other." Webb sums it up as, "There's a chemistry that sometimes happens that I don't think any one of us would ever trade for sex!"
The band's long term goal is to set a little more notoriety, sell more CDs, play some bigger shows, make it big and get rich! With the band's enthusiasm, they certainly have the potential of reaching those goals. "We all have the attitude to be able to just go wherever it goes. We really enjoy playing together; we enjoy the relationship we have with each other and the crowds that we have and if it went big places, it would be cool and if it doesn't, it's cool. It gets better all the time," expresses Webb. As Glenn puts it, "You can't be an overnight sensation after playing for 30 years . . . but you never know!"
Sobo says, "I just believe that this band, musically, are some of the best that's come down the Pike in a long, long time. Each one of them, as an individual, is a true artist in their own right but collectively together, they have a unique sound and I hope they keep that sound as they go on with their careers."
If you haven't yet experienced an evening with Slowlane, you'll certainly want to make it a point to do so. With their fine musicianship and amusing sense of humor, it will certainly be an evening you won't forget!

Steve Fenderson

He's sincere, charming and modest. He's a good ol' fashioned country boy who prefers to stick to his roots. Who is this marvel of all men? He's none other than soft-spoken, Montoursville resident STEVE FENDERSON! What makes him even more interesting is the fact that he's a one man band/soloist.
Unless you've seen him play, it's somewhat difficult to describe how one man can become his own band. "It's hard to explain," says Steve. What he uses is electric, not acoustic. His apparatus consists of a drum machine that gives him a selection of beats, such as bass and rhythm back-up. He plays the keyboard petals with his feet, while playing the guitar and singing. "It gives you accompaniment for soloists," he explains.
He satisfies all generations with a variety of music, such as Polkas, Cha-Chas, Jitterbug, '60s & '70s rock n' roll and Country. Everyone can reminisce and hum along to the songs he sings, songs like "I Love How You Love Me," "Then You Can Tell Me Goodbye," "Save The Last Dance For Me," "Hang On Sloopy," and "Midnight Hour."
His origins in music began at an early age which stems down to his roots. With a look of thoughtfulness, he recalls what got him interested in music . . . "My mother and father singing in the living room when I was young." His dad played guitar, mandolin and the mouth organ while the family, including his aunt and uncle, all sang. "I was just young; of course I listened to them," he says. "Back then, we did everything at home and they did everything with us. Saturday nights or whatever, if you did anything, it was family. They'd get the guitars and mandolins; they'd sing and my brother and I would sit around listening and it was great!"
Growing up around music, his interest in music soon became apparent. According to Steve, one day his parents couldn't find him but eventually spotted him underneath a bed lying on top of his dad's guitar case. He proclaims, "From what they tell me, I guess that's when I must have first realized I wanted to play the guitar!" His dad began showing him how to play the guitar and mandolin at the age of 12!
At 12-years-old he was playing around the house; at the ripe old age of 14, he was playing his first job in a country band! Not yet old enough to drive, people would pick him up and take him to the jobs. In high school he started his own band, "Just 4." Ever since, he has played in bands until he began his solo career some 15 years ago. "It's probably been more than that but the way time flies," he quips. Steve still plays the mandolin but says, "I don't bring it out to the jobs; I should. It's different sounding. Not too many people play them anymore."
You can catch Steve's act at places such as clubs, bars, indoor and outdoor parties, but not weddings due to his work schedule at Kelloggs, where he works in receiving. One place you are sure to see him on a more or less regular basis is NEW SHORE ACRES, a place he now considers his home base. "I've played there probably 25 years, throughout previous owners," he says.
Throughout his years of performing, his most rewarding experience is the fact that he's played for the younger generations and their parents before them. "What gives me a lot of satisfaction," he says, "Is knowing that I'm playing for the kids, they still accept me and I can have fun with them."
What also gives him pleasure is people dancing. "I'm playing by myself and the people are accepting me enough with the sound that I'm producing; they get up and dance instead of just sitting around and listening. That really makes me feel good; whether they're older or younger, they get up and dance," he exclaims!
He confesses that he still gets nervous on the first song. "I've been told by people that are older that's because you care. If you're not a little nervous, you don't care enough." After his first song, he says he's fine.
Steve never had the urge to go out on the road. Thanks to a call from an agent in Florida, he had the chance a couple of time to go. "I never wanted to do that," he says and adds, "I always wanted to stay and play for the people I know. It's really neat; the familiar faces coming into a place, knowing your friends. I would have been living out of a suitcase playing for people I didn't even know."
In the future, he does want to play less. He says the day he hangs it up is when he's not having fun anymore; he won't play for money if he's not having fun. He explains his decision as, "When I put my guitar on, play and that's not there, then I won't play anymore in public." That's when you'll find him sitting by a campfire with his acoustic. Presently, he still loves doing what he's doing and will continue to play until that fire is gone.
Although he loves what he does and his popularity has grown over the years, he has had to pay a price. Sadly, he speaks of his earlier days when he was playing 4 to 6 times a week, which meant he missed out on spending time with his parents, brother and nephew at the cabin where he was practically raised. "To this day, the thing that I've really dreaded about playing music was that it took me away from that but," he says, "They were proud of me playing. I was having fun but now I wish I wouldn't have played as much and spent more time with them."
Perhaps, partly, that is why Steve likes to spend as much time as possible with his children: Sean, a 15-year-old student in the Montoursville School District and Heather, a 19-year-old Chemistry student at Penn State. Heather, who he's obviously proud of, finds time to break away from college life and get home to spend time with her father. Sean, on the other hand, keeps dad busy! With a laugh, Steve says, "He's into baseball and sports but doesn't want to play the music part of it and I'm glad!"
Steve still thrives on the chance to get back to his roots with his dad, Perry Fenderson of Cogan Station, the biggest influence in his life. "When we get together and go to the cabin or something like that, we do it together with family." And they still play! "He forgets words, I forget words," he muses!
So just why has this hometown boy who never forgot his roots, continued playing music for so many years without taking any kind of break? He answers quite simply, "I love it or I wouldn't have stayed with it all this time!"

The Electric and MIDI Violin

There's nothing more soothing and relaxing than the sweet flowing strings of the violin, enchanting us with melodies from Brahms and Bach. Another form of pleasure is listening to the bluegrass and country beat of the fiddle, which is actually a violin but played in a different rhythm With the passage of time comes advances in technology, bringing us the electric and MIDI violin (or fiddle).
According to J.R. Judd, teacher, violin maker and owner of J.R. Judd Violins in Williamsport, the MIDI violin can do much more than the standard electric violin. The electric violin produces an analog sound, which is your regular hearing of the instrument. The MIDI instrument has a completely digital (computerized) sound, making up to 130 different sounds, such as windchimes, drums, pipe organs and the french horn. The instrument gets plugged into a controller box, which produces the different sounds. "Actually it's just a computer chip," says Judd.
There are no manufacturers of the instruments; just individual makers. "We have in the shop our individual makers, which I've contacted all over the world," Judd conveys. There are only 14 different makers, eight of them from the United States. Judd has just about one represented by each of them in his shop at any given time. Two of those represented are Tucker Barret, of Vermont and the Zeta Company, out of California. Zeta makes the instruments for bands such as the Charlie Daniels Band and The Dave Mathews Band.
What is the difference in looks between a traditional violin and an electric violin? "Anything goes," laughs Judd! They range in shape from a traditional look to very futuristic looks. Some are hollow, some solid and others have virtually no body at all. He says the only thing a person needs to worry about is if it will fit in its standard violin case.
Its body length should be 356 millimeters (roughly 14 inches), the one number that the makers generally stick with. The string and body length are the same as a standard instrument. "From there, the artist who is making the instrument can do basically anything he wants to because you don't need the hollow cavity of the instrument to create the sound," he explains.
Judd feels they are outstanding because the quality of the sound has come a long way. "If you asked me that ten years ago, I would have said don't buy one." There was a delay in the playing which would throw you off as a musician. He says the sound quality has changed because of something called the quartz or the piezo crystal. That crystal has revolutionalized the response time from the bridge when you play, right into the speaker system that you use. There's a quartz crystal for each string. The string actually lays on top of it and picks it up. "You can breath on it; that's how sensitive they are," Judd relates and ads, "It's like having a microphone on each individual string. That's why they've really come so far and they're really nice. But, now also, because it's so sensitive, it's going to pick up all your bad notes so it works both ways."
There is some extra equipment that is needed. The electric fiddle requires any type of guitar amp, a speaker and one quarter inch cable pickup.
The MIDI takes a computer chip called the controller. It's a controller that you patch your violin into and then sits on top of your speaker. It's all computerized, reading up to 130 different numbered sounds. You can operate this with a foot pedal and it can be programmed to do a variety of sounds while you're playing. They also make an electric bass that can be played as an upright, put in a stand or put on a strap and played standing up.
Judd says anything can be changed into a MIDI. It just requires some more electronics.
Today, MIDI compatible instruments are going to the class rooms. Judd explains that many of our Universities have electric labs in their music programs, meaning computerized electronic labs where the students are playing keyboards into the computers. Many Universities, such as Penn State, Mansfield and others are starting to look into purchasing them for their music labs.
Learning to play the electric violin is a course that you learn on your own. Judd doesn't know of anyone who gives lessons. "It's quite a step up for a student. You would never start a kid out on this," he says. "I would say, for most students, if they're going to start experimenting, they probably should be at least middle to high school age." He does have an electric string quartet now at Curtain Middle School in Williamsport, but he does not like to push it. He says quite a few kids have spent about $110 to make their own instrument electrified. All they need is a regular guitar patch, quarter inch play jack and a used speaker. It's still going to look like the standard instrument; it won't have the look of the electric but it will do the same things. Judd says all you need is a barcus-berry violin piezo pickup. It attaches to the instrument to make the acoustic instrument electric. "That's the least expensive way to go if you really just want to experiment," he says.
According to Judd, the electric instrument is probably three times the expense of a standard instrument. He says the benefits are, you're expanding into a whole different type of music. "If you're really into jazz, I think it's probably the way to go," he says. "A lot of folks from the Wilkes Barre/Scranton area are buying them because they want to be louder in a polka band. There are the country bands that are using them but not as much as the polka folks and the people who are playing jazz. People see them more and more and use them. You have to get past the look first, especially the old timers! Once you get past the look, then everything is the same. You play the violin exactly the same way."
Judd gives this advice to anyone wishing to play one. "If you've never played a string instrument, you probably should start first on a standard acoustic instrument. Then, if you want to get into electric, first try the barcus-berry piezo pickup because of the cost factor - $110 versus $1800, and that's not MIDI! The MIDI ones go for $3000 on up and that's just for the instrument. It's a luxury!"
Judd goes on to explain, "It's really pretty straight forward. It's not as technical as you might think it is, unless you get into the MIDI. Then you could spend weeks and years experimenting its sound. It's a lot of fun. It's not just a toy." He laughs and concludes, "It's an expensive toy!"
If you would like to learn more about the electric and MIDI violin (fiddle), contact Judd at J.R. Judd Violins, 1965 Lycoming Creek Road, in the Carl E. Stotz Building Suite 205, in Williamsport, or call him at (717) 321-8070.

Valley Nights office staff takes it easy. In the background, Sue Ammon, Michelle Cohrs and Barbara Budd.

There were haybales, a rockin' pumpkin, balloons, good friends, good spirits and three of the area's finest bands! If you missed the Oktoberfest Bash held at Alibi's at the Econolodge, you certainly missed a great time! For some of us, it was a long day. I arrived at Alibi's at 1 p.m. to begin the task of decorating. I was overjoyed as my decorating crew arrived throughout the day. A special thanks to the crew: Bernette (Peanut) Ardrey, Joyce Pittenger, Leroy Pittenger, Cheryl Hamm, Vicki Emick, Denise Weaver and Luke Kopp. Also to Ed, maintenance man at the Econolodge.

Williamsport Area School District Music Program

The Zendogs Are Coming!!!

What do you get when you take four talented musicians, add in a dash of modern rock with a retro feel, and to it add a strong, intelligent writing team? Given the combination of the contents, the answer can be none other than Philadelphia based Zendogs . . . and they've included the Susquehanna Valley in their upcoming northeastern regional tour!
If you haven't heard of the Zendogs yet, you certainly will. And once you see them, you won't forget! The band's driving force is due to the powerful song-writing team of Walt Pommer (guitar/vocals) and Fred Herrmann (guitar/keyboards/vocals). Backed by Tony Tiano (bass guitar/vocals) and Patrick Van Belle (drums/percussion), they deliver a soulful and tasteful blend of great American rock n' roll, as only the Zendogs can.
To understand where these four guys are coming from, you've got to learn a little more about them. Although serious, full-time musicians, they do reveal an uncanny sense of humor, especially Fred. Fred, Walt and Tony originally hail from the Bucks County area; Patrick, from Cherry Hill, NJ. Currently, they all reside in Philadelphia, "But we don't want to," exclaims Fred. "I want to live up your way!" When I mentioned the dirty word "snow," our man Fred did admit to liking warm weather!
Fred, Walt and Patrick (who I feel looks like George Clooney, yum!) are all single. Tony, the family man is married with two children. Walt also has two boys. Fred, who has a voice that can hammer it home claims, "I'm still looking for my perfect princess. I am a lady's man. I love all woman - all shapes and sizes."
When asked how the band came up with the unusual name, Zendogs, leave it to Fred to give the answer, "Once there was a Zen, then there was a dog, and they got married and had a little zendog that liked good ol' rock n' roll!"
How the band came about is a very involved story. According to Fred, with Walt backing him up, Fred met Tony in 1982, while playing in a band called "Shelter." Fred says he liked Tony's style but unfortunately, Tony had to leave that project. In 1987, Fred "hooked up" with Walt and discovered similar musical talents and tastes. That began the beginning of their friendship. In 1989, Fred joined forces with Walt in a band called "Tammerlane." Fred says it was a great band but due to bad business, the band broke up. Exit Fred. He moved on to LA to expand his musical career. In 1994, Walt, along with Tony founded the Zendogs. Re-enter Fred. "Deep down I hated Philadelphia but I wanted to come back and work with Walt and Tony because they had started a band called the Zendogs," he says.
Eventually down the road, Fred was in Florida building an album called "White Elephants" with Stan Lynch of Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers fame. He says the album just wasn't quite right so he brought it back to "Philly" with him. The band put their finishing touches (Zendog appeal Fred calls it) on "Love Don't Have to be That Way." Mark Berry produced the song and helped Walt and Fred finish up the album "and thus, White Elephants was born!"
Patrick joined the band in 1997, after the tragic death of Zendog drummer Chris Krayger. According to Fred, approximately 20 drummers auditioned before Patrick was chosen. Walt says, "It's an all for one kind of deal. That's why it took us so long to find a drummer. He passed the audition and we let him stay!" Fred laughs and ads, "Although he has a quirky temperament, we still love him!" In the background, Walt can be heard saying, "He's gonna kill us!" Perhaps this is what makes this band so great; a good sense of humor, a solid friendship and a commitment and love of what they do best, which is make great music! Fred backs this by saying "We do the same show with spirit and drive, whether there are two or 10,000 people at the show. Each and every person matters to us. We do it for the love of music."
Marie Olsen, of Tornado Productions, the band's booking agent and tour manager says, "When I first saw them perform, I said that's the one! I knew this was the band." She says they all get along very well together and ads, "To me, they're kind of like an extension of my family."
The band's debut release "White Elephants," on A-TTACK Records and distributed by Page / EMl, is a true American rock album. Produced by Mark Berry (Paul McCartney, ELO, Deep Purple, Carly Simon...) in Canada, and Zendogs' Fred Herrmann and Walt Pommer, the album is all about songwriting and sound, returning us to the days of true, great rock! Mark Berry enjoyed working with the band in the studio so much and thought that the album was "full of hits" that he signed them to a multi album deal with A-TTACK Record & Filmworks Ltd.
Four of the twelve tracks even has veteran Stan Lynch of Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers on drums! "Stan said we were one of the new great rock n' roll bands," confides Fred. That just goes to show you how far this band is going.
Two of the album's songs, "Let Your Hair Hang Down" and "Shinin' On" are featured on a new snowboarding video documentary called "Charlie at Zero Gravity." The video was filmed in British Columbia and Colorado, and will be coming out in the U.S. and Japan. The soundtrack will be available at outdoor and sporting shops.
"White Elephants" has been submitted for the Labatt's compilation Vol. II, distributed by BMG and was recently released to the world market at the MIDEM Music Conference in France, receiving favorable reviews.
Currently, "White Elephants" is receiving airplay on 42 radio stations throughout several states, including Pennsylvania Locally, their music can be heard on Lycoming, Bloomsburg and Susquehanna University radio stations and the list keeps on growing. On November 11, Fred and Walt made an appearance at Bloomsburg University's radio station, where they gave a live interview and played acoustics on the air. They were an instant success!
The band has set their sights on their goal for 1998, which Fred says is "to begin recording 'American Mojo,' the follow up to 'White Elephants' and to land a major deal in the U.S."
Ed Staley, of Hyperactive Management, has high hopes for the band. With a positive attitude, he says, "I think they're headed for modern success . . . more of a regional success, and hopefully use that regional success as a springboard towards international."
Fred says the band is very excited about coming to our area. The band will be touring our area in February. You can catch their fantastic act at Valley Inn in Duboistown, February 13 and at New Shore Acres in Loyalsockville on February 14, Valentine's Day (and I wasted no time in asking them to all to be my Valentine date). More dates and places will be announced in Valley Nights. Don't miss the opportunity to see the band before they head to their next stop on their tour, New Hampshire.
Fred sums it up perfectly as, "If people miss coming to hear our band, then they have no right to complain about their being no great rock n' roll anymore."
For more information about Zendogs, contact Ed Stabley, Hyperactive Management at (215) 537-0198 or (215) 638-4711. For bookings, contact Marie Olsen, Tornado Productions at (215) 357-6379.