Seeking out bargains is key for thrifty shopping

Photo from amarillo.com

By: Rachel Nelson

http://www.ac-ranger.com/

Budgeting money is something most college students struggle with, but knowing where to shop can help.

"Everyone is looking for a good deal no matter how much money they have," said Joseph Ramirez, owner of Got Junk Thrift Store, located at 522 SW 16th Avenue.

Ramirez understands first hand that one man's trash can be another man's treasure. "I grew up really poor," he said. "Thrift stores were a way for me to get the things I needed and some of the things I wanted."

Ramirez said he will box up people's junk free of charge to sale in Got Junk. He tries to keep his one of a kind store fun by appealing to a younger crowd.

"We get a lot of younger people," he said.

Besides Got Junk's every day bargains, each Monday the store offers all items for half price. "I found this is more of a hobby for people. It's an outlet. It's therapy," Ramirez said.

By shopping at thrift stores, college students can quench their shopping habits without putting a huge dent in their savings account. Thrift stores provide a variety of items including books, shoes, appliances, furniture, clothing, jewelry and toys.

People go thrift store shopping for different reasons. Local shopper Candace Campbell chose to browse through the clothing racks at America's Best Thrift & Discount, located at 1600 Washington Street, when looking for a pair of white hospital scrubs.

"I start my CNA class on Monday so I have to find white scrubs," she said. Although she doesn't usually shop at thrift stores, Campbell found what she was looking for. "I come here when I don't want to spend a lot of money," she said.

Local resident Patty Brown frequents thrift stores in Amarillo. She referred to herself as the "thrift store queen" while scavenging through the aisles of Thrift Town at 10th and Monroe. Brown shops at thrift stores for a different reason than most.

"This is my job and I resale things on the Internet," she said. Brown said she collects $700 to $1,000 per week reselling items she finds at bargain prices.

Not only can college students save big while shopping at thrift stores, they also can earn extra cash by starting an online business reselling used items. Brown hits garage sales on the weekends in search of resalable items, keeping an observant eye out for anything Italian. "Italian brands sell really well," she said.

Surgical Technology major Carlee Garst buys groceries at Panhandle Salvage Grocery Store, located at 5811 S. Western Street. "Panhandle Salvage is the best for cheap food," she said. "Everything's on a budget. We pay our bills and we have $80 left over for gas and groceries so we have to split that to make sure we get everything covered."

Garst also turns to the Sunday paper to cut out coupons.

"I probably save about $50 every two weeks with coupons and shopping at thrift stores," she said.

When shopping at any store, looking at the bargain racks first is a helpful hint when it comes to being resourceful.

Business Administration major Sabina Domagala said she makes the clearance racks a priority when shopping.

"I shop on the clearance racks first then I look at the more expensive items," she said.

Domagala has another piece of advice for ladies who like to shop.

"Take a guy and have him pay for it," she said.

Shopping online is another way to save money. There are many bargains to be found in cyber space, it just takes browsing to find them.

English major Staci Hayes is a frequent online shopper.

"That's pretty much the only way I shop besides clearance racks," she said.

Hayes takes advantage of Web sites that offer free shipping.

"The other day I bought a three dollar bikini top with free shipping," Hayes said. "Wal-Mart online is really cool because you can look at the stuff they don't have at their store. They ship it to the store and then you can pick it up there, so it's always free shipping."

Some of Hayes' other favorite online shopping spots include Old Navy and American Eagle.

"I shop at Old Navy because they have $5 shipping and they have clearance stuff that you can't find in the stores," she said. "American Eagle sends you coupons in your email so you can get all their clearance shirts for three to six dollars."

Regardless of a student's financial situation, Crown Financial Ministries recommends slating a budget because it can be a beneficial strategy to staying out of debt. Students can figure up what they spend on rent, utilities, car payment, insurance, gasoline, laundry, savings and other expenses.

"I always write everything down. I figure how much each check is going to be and how much we have to spend on bills and then how much we're going to have left for anything else," Garst said. "If you budget everything it's a lot easier I found out. You don't get your account overdrawn."

By comparing what is spent each month on bills and other necessities to the student's total income, what's left can be used to treat oneself to a shopping spree at their favorite store.

Hellyeah to return to Amarillo December 16

** Editor's Note ** I was among the many local fans that purchased a ticket to the Hellyeah, Otep and Bloodsimple show November 20. I, like many others,was pretty upset when the announcement was made minutes before the doors to the concert opened that the show had been cancelled. After much deliberation, I decided it would be worth a shot to try to speak with the band and give them a chance to explain more in depth to their fans what was going on. I went to the tour buses, parked outside of the Midnight Rodeo where the gig was scheduled to take place. I saw a man walk from one bus to another, and then he disappeared. When he came back out, a friend and I approached him and discovered that he was Tommy Maxwell, rhythm guitarist for Hellyeah. He was in search of a lighter to spark up his cigarette. I gave him a light, and he hung out with us in the freezing cold for the next few minutes, eager to get the word out as to why the show was canceled and when it would return to Amarillo.

Hellyeah to return to Amarillo December 16
By: Rachel Nelson
http://www.amarilloscene.com/

Hellyeah was scheduled to play with special guests Otep and Bloodsimple at the Midnight Rodeo November 20, but much to the disappointment of fans, the show was canceled because of circulating rumors that lead guitarist Greg Tribbett, also an existing member of Mudvayne, had injured his shoulder.

According to rhythm guitarist Tom Maxwell, made famous by his lead guitar role in Nothingface, Tribbett has tendonitis in his left arm,which made him unable to play the gig.

"His arm was hurting really bad. If one goes, we all go," Maxwell said.

Hellyeah made plans to return to the Panhandle December 16. "Sorry, we'll make it up for you next time," Maxwell said to fans who spent nearly $30 for tickets to the show.

Maxwell also spoke enthusiastically about the coming together of heavy metal supergroup Hellyeah, which presents a brilliant mixture of Mudvayne, Damageplan, Pantera and Nothingface. He said that he and Chad Gray, another member of Mudvayne, greatly contributed to making the idea happen.

Although Hellyeah has experienced some changes since its official forming in 2006, the band continues to rock out all over the country and are currently playing out their 'Balls, Volume, Strength' tour.

Hellyeah original bassist Jerry Montano, made famous in Nothingface, left the band under what Maxwell hinted to be bad terms.

"Here's my quote for Jerry," Maxwell said. "Enemy."

Bobzilla, formerly of Damageplan and good friend of Hellyeah and former Damageplan and Pantera drummer Vinnie Paul Abbott, took over the role as bassist.

Hellyeah released their debut self-titled album in April. Included on the song list is a track titled "Thank You," which is a dedication to Gray's grandmother, Maxwell's mother, Dimebag Darrell Abbott (Vinnie Paul's brother who was gunned down on stage during a Damageplan show in 2004) and "everyone else who has lost someone," Maxwell said during his interview with the Scene.

For more information on the ticket situation, contact Front Gate tickets by visiting frontgatetickets.com.

2-day event to mark the 10th anniversary of Brian Deneke's death and contribute to the National Deneke Memorial

By: Rachel Nelson
http://www.amarilloscene.com/

Brian Deneke never imagined when he signed Shelly Singleton's freshman yearbook as "the most famous kid in school" that he one day would become just that.

Singleton befriended Deneke on the first day of sixth grade at Crockett Middle School on the grounds that they were both different.

"Brian tried to be friends with everybody," she said.December 12 will mark the tenth anniversary of the death of Deneke, a local punk who Singleton described as "the heartbeat of the scene."

Deneke was ran over and killed by Dustin Camp in the Western Plaza parking lot at the age of 19 in a conflict between two social groups: "punks" and "preps." Since Deneke's death in 1997, the incident has gained nation-wide coverage by outlets such as the Leeza Show, Dateline 20/20, MTV, A&E City Confidential, Texas Monthly, Punk Planet Magazine, the New York Times and more. His story has even been placed in textbooks for social studies classes.

Deneke is remembered by friends and family as a happy-go-lucky, likeable guy who loved to skateboard.

"I don't think I ever saw him in a bad mood," Singleton said. "You could not be around him and be in a bad mood."

Festivals will be held in approximately 30 different cities in Deneke's honor on the weekend of December 7 and 8. The Amarillo event will take place at the Nat Ballroom, located at 604 S. Georgia Street. The two-day happening will be a B.Y.O.B. event with live music and will serve as a time of unity in Brian's memory. Admission will be $5 each night.

Fifty percent of the National proceeds will go to the National Organization for Parents of Murdered Children.

"The other 50 percent of each city event proceeds will go to a chosen local organization to help change their own communities, to fight prejudice, violence, injustice and the like," The National Deneke Memorial Myspace reports.

Friends and family of Brian believe this is what he would want.

"He was very into helping people," Singleton said as she recalled how Brian would cook food and feed it to homeless people at parks.

Brian Deneke's father, Mike, finds the nation-wide response to be "overwhelming" and "surprising," and has recognized an attitude from some people to let the tragedy rest after ten years. But Brian's story has taken on a life of it's own.

"We didn't organize this. We didn't even know. So many people can relate to what happened. I think that's why the story keeps going. It touches people," Mike Deneke said.

"Brian's still a part of us," said Betty Deneke, Brians mother.

Mike Deneke believes that there are a lot of lessons to be learned from Brian's story, and the festival will help to shine a light on that.

"There's lots of lessons," he said. "There are unintended consequences to actions. There was also a lot of alcohol involved. That could be another lesson. But also respect for individuality and people. You don't have to agree, but treat others as you would want to be treated."

Brian's brother, Jason Deneke, said he misses the simplicity of "just hanging out" with his little brother. He also hopes that the nation-wide events will circulate a message to others.

"I just hope it raises some awareness and teaches people a little bit of tolerance," he said.

Brian Deneke's parents admitted that they were not particularly thrilled when Brian came home sporting a green Mohawk, but they noted that he was a free spirit. Betty Deneke remembers the first time she found out that Brian had a tattoo, and she laughs about it now.

"I found out he had a tattoo when I took him to the doctor's office for a broken collarbone," she said.

Although the Deneke's all agree that it doesn't feel like it's been ten years since Brian's death, they have learned to cope with the situation.

"We just had to kind of move on. You can let it eat you up and it can destroyyour life. Brian wouldn't have wanted that," Mike Deneke said.

Betty Deneke said her faith helped her through the loss of her son.

"It was the only thing that kept me going," she said.

Mike Deneke agreed. "What helped us get beyond the anger and the hatred was the idea of forgiveness," he said.

For more information about Brian's story or the upcoming events, visitwww.myspace.com/nationaldenekememorial or http://www.briandeneke.org/.

Local museum is free and open to the public

photo courtesy of www.amarilloart.org

By: Rachel Nelson

http://www.amarilloscene.com/

The Amarillo Museum of Art has been adding color to the lives of people in the Golden Spread for forty years.

According to AMOA executive director Graziella Marchicelli, the arts are important in all of our lives regardless of economical or educational background.

"The arts do more than just decorate your home. The arts are much broader and have a much deeper meaning than we give it credit for," she said.

The mission of the museum is to "provide quality visual arts programming to the residents of the Texas Panhandle, eastern New Mexico and western Oklahoma through collections, temporary exhibitions, educational programming, preservation and research."

The AMOA holds exhibitions, art classes and special events for the community on a regular basis.On the third Thursday of every month, AMOA holds an event called "Third Thursdays." It is in collaboration with Starbuck's Coffee and includes live music, children's activities, art based lessons for the entire family and coffee tasting.

The events are held at the museum, located on the northeast corner of the Amarillo College Washington Street campus, and are free to the public.

Those who attend Third Thursdays can go on tours of current exhibitions, and the museum usually shows a film or documentary. Activities start at 6 p.m. and run until 9. The next Third Thursday event will be held October 18.

"We are more than just a place for pretty objects," Marchicelli said.

At the last Third Thursday event held on September 20, the museum introduced the "Art-o-mat." It is a refurbished cigarette machine that was custom designed for the AMOA. Five dollar tokens can be purchased at AMOA to be used in the Art-o-mat. The machine dispenses miniature pieces of original artwork by various international artists. There are only three of these machines in Texas.

Currently running at AMOA is an exhibition called The Face of India: Photographs of Donald M. Robinson.

"Through his lens he shows us the social contradictions in India and disparities within the country from the congestion of elephants and buggies on the main street to the quiet, majestic palaces of the maharajas," the AMOA Web site reports.

"It was a pleasure and a privilege to discover India," Robinson said. "The experience afforded me unparalleled photographic opportunities.

"The Face of India exhibition will run at the museum through October 21. For more information about the museum and the exhibition, visit www.amarilloart.org.

Other exhibitions running at AMOA are Syncopated Rhythm: the Collage of Lance Letscher and Dante Marioni: Form – Color -Pattern. These exhibitions will run until October 28.

Marchicelli encourages people to take advantage of visiting the free-to-the-public museum.

"Art is an intuitive part of who we are as human beings," she said.

The AMOA currently is looking for volunteers for Third Thursdays. Anyone interested should call the museum at 371-5050.

Museum Hours:Tues - Fri ... 10-5 p.m.
Thur... 10-9 p.m.
Sat - Sun ... 1-5 p.m.

Location: 2200 S. Van Buren, Amarillo, Texas 79109
Mailing Address: PO Box 447, Amarillo, Texas 79178
Phone: 806-371-5050
Fax: 806-373-9235
Email: amoa@actx.eduwww.amarilloart.org

Local BMX freestyle rider soars to top

Duke Dustman performs a stunt on his bike.

By: Rachel Nelson
http://www.amarilloscene.com/

Eighteen-year-old Duke Dustman knows what it means to overcome obstacles. He experienced the loss of his father at the age of 14, and he didn't graduate from high school. He never imagined he would be where he is today.

"I started riding. It kept me from doing bad things. It keeps me happy," Dustman said.

Dustman started out watching freestyle bikers perform stunts on TV. Today, a few broken bones and injuries later, he has three sponsors that help him excel in the sport.

Outdoor Elements Sports and Torn are the local businesses that support Dustman by donating equipment and monetary needs for his endeavors. Black Eye Bikes out of Colorado also provides support.

Dustman began progressing in the world of freestyle biking when his friend, Adam Cossey, opened an indoor skate park in Amarillo.

"He's picked up quicker than anybody I've seen. In three years he's done what most kids try to accomplish in 10," Cossey said of Dustman's accomplishments.

After spending time at Cossey's skate park, Dustman entered a contest with the New Mexico Xtreme Sports Association where he landed first place in a freestyle competition. He was then flown to California to attend Camp Woodward, a BMX facility, where he received daily instruction for one week.

"That's an amazing place. It's like bike heaven," Dustman said.

Since then, Dustman has been involved in several competitions.

Among Dustman's favorite tricks to perform is the "tail whip."

"It's where I get off my bike in the air, spin the bike around and get back on it."

He also has mastered the art of doing back flips.

Dustman and a few of his bike buddies recently established their own freestyle team. Team EKUD has done a few shows around town.

"We want to do birthday parties and stuff like that," Dustman said.

Those interested in having Team EKUD perform at their event can reach Dustman at (806) 324-3633. Team EKUD is also on the lookout for someone to sponsor them in making clothing.

Dustman said his freestyle family keeps him encouraged on his journey, although he doesn't think it's going to be his career.

"Thanks to all my friends that ride with me and help me out through the hard times," he said.

To others desiring to get involved in BMX riding, Dustman offers advice.

"Get a bike," he said. "If kids want to get a bike, they can go to Outdoor Elements. They're really nice people."

Although Cossey's indoor skate park is no longer open, John Stiff Park in Amarillo has a free outdoor establishment open to the public.

Above all, Dustman encourages people pursuing freestyle biking to have a good time.

"Ride for fun. Don't take it seriously," he said.

Theatre expands, welcomes local talent

By: Rachel Nelson

http://www.amarilloscene.com/

Among the explosion of the local art scene is the Amarillo Repertory Theatre, located in Sunset Center. The theatre, commonly called "The Rep," was started one year ago by Shawn Martin and David Burton, and since then it has produced 13 shows, a majority of which have been written by local playwrights.

"The theatre itself has been going through a lot of growth," said artistic director Sirc Michaels.

The current show that The Rep is running is "Faust," which began on Halloween night and will repeat November 2, 3, 9 and 10 at 8 p.m.

"This is the beginning of the first full-on season where we will be doing shows for adults and families," Michaels said.

Admission to the show is $5 for students and seniors and $10 for everyone else. Tickets can be purchased at the door."

"'Faust' is the classic story about a man who sells his soul to the devil for a chance to relive his youth, only to realize the folly of his actions all too late," said Michaels, who wrote the script.

Those who come to the production will enter the theatre through a creative set-up that appears to be the mouth of hell.

Another show running in November will be D Fever and Hank Robey on the 14th at 8 p.m.

According to Michaels, The Rep puts on a diverse selection of thought-invoking shows. He described some plays as family friendly fairy tales, while others "push the envelope."

"We're not just doing one type of show," he said. "We're trying to do provocative theatre … stuff that you wouldn't just see around town. Our whole thrust is to help cultivate performing arts in the Panhandle."

Michaels believes that theatre is "the common man's art."

"Our goal is to reach people who normally wouldn't go to the theatre," he said. "There's something very magical about the theatre. This is something that everyone should experience."

Going to the movies and attending live theatre are two completely different experiences according to Martin, who is the managing producer of The Rep.

"The country is currently enthralled with electronic stimulation," he said. "The medium of film has completely overtaken the entertainment industry so currently people don't even realize that they can be entertained enjoyably by live human beings."

Martin encourages people to give live theatre a chance.

"It's fun to be entertained by live people," he said. "Every theatre experience is brand new. If you come see the same show ten times, you will see ten different shows because of the human factor."

Contrary to popular belief, Michaels said theatre isn't just the stereotypical men in tights.

"It's varied, it's exciting and it can really charge a person in terms of their emotions," he said.

Because of lacking funds, the arts are commonly the first thing to be cut from public schools. Michaels said that one of the future goals of The Amarillo Repertory Theatre is to go into schools and tie shows into the curriculum. They also will host the Panhandle Playwrights Festival where writers in the area will have an opportunity to submit their work to be produced at The Rep. The deadline for submissions will be at the end of January. Six finalists will be chosen for live stage readings, one of which will get a production at the Repertory Theatre in May.

For more information, visit the group's Web site at http://www.art-in-amarillo.com/.

The Amarillo Repertory Theatre desires to work with local talent.

"We're really keen on working with groups," Michaels said.

The theatre invites those with an interest in acting to audition for shows and welcomes scripts from local writers. They also are willing to provide a venue to people in search of one.

Slamarillo, a group of slam poets in Amarillo, have made the theater their home venue for the past six months and perform on the last Saturday of every month at 8 p.m.

The Amarillo Repertory Theatre has a full season slated. To stay up-to-date with shows, visit the groups Web site or check out Myspace.com/amarep.

Route 66 Roller Derby League plans to start bouts in spring

By: Rachel Nelson
http://www.amarilloscene.com/

Roller derby is a sport that has fizzled in and out of popularity through the decades. It took off for the first time in the United States in the 1930s and has seen its ups and downs. With the emerging of the new millennium, however, the sport has made a big comeback. The once All-American past time is returning in a punk rock, rebellion extreme. The Women's Flat Track Derby Association was formed in 2004, and Amarillo is getting in on the action.

"I like that it is aggressive and it's for women. You don't find a whole lot of aggressive women sports," said Crystal Tabor, a skater in the Route 66 Roller Derby that was formed late last year. Tabor's skate mates call her "Sgt. Sass" on the track.

"The personal names are supposed to be kind of corny and fun," she said. "They're also supposed to represent something about you."

The Route 66 Roller Derby came to exist when Stephanie "Mia Sinner" Buchanan got together with what she calls "the original eight" at Denny's for coffee and hamburgers. They thought it would be a good idea to start a roller derby league in Amarillo. The league is now approximately 30 skaters strong, and Buchanan said she is not surprised with the derby's success.

"There's very limited choices for sports in Amarillo. It gives women who have a need for endurance an outlet," she said.

Heather "H-Bomb" Hoffsteader is a mother of 3 and works a full time job. She said she enjoys blowing off steam through roller derby.

"It's empowering, it's fun, it's a great stress release. We don't usually get that as women very often, especially in a physical sport," Hoffsteader said. "It's a great outlet and it's great to get to know new people, too."

The league consists of three teams: The Bonzai Brawlers, Deadly Dames and Piston Pinups. The teams bout with each other on the weekends and have not yet competed with other leagues, but plan on branching out when they start their second season in the spring.

Hoffsteader said the only thing keeping the league from competing is that they are in search of a venue.

"We have a couple of them in the works, but no one really has everything we need," Hoffsteader said. "We just can't wait to get started. We all wish we could start now, but we can't yet."
The Route 66 Roller Derby has become very active in the local community since its formation in November.

"Once our operating expenses have been covered, we plan to donate to local charities and have already been donating to charities such as The American Cancer Society & Goodwill. So, by supporting Route 66 Roller Derby, you will also be supporting people in need in our area," the group's Web site explains.

Hoffsteader said the derby is also working on doing something with the High Plains Food Bank around Thanksgiving.

The Route 66 Roller Derby is always looking for new roller girls and is also recruiting referees. Skaters must be women who are at least 18 years old. Health insurance is recommended but not required. Men and women are welcome to be refs. Those interested should contact the derby via e-mail at route66rollerderby@gmail.com.

A recruitment party is also in the works and will be held at Burberry's. Keep checking www.myspace.com/route66rollerderby for the official date.

"We have girls of all different shapes and sizes. It really gets your adrenaline going sometimes and it gets your heart rate up, too," Tabor said.

Buchanan said that even women who can't skate are welcome to join."We'll help you, we'll train you. You'll gain a family out of it. We are like family. We do everything together."

ROLLER DERBY: The Basics
** Roller blades are not allowed. All participants must wear quad skates.
** Two teams with 5 girls on each team skate in a formation around the track.
** One girl from each team called a "jammer" races around the track trying to make her way through the other team's girls.
** The girls use blocks, hits and pushes to stop the other team's jammer.

Femme art show to benefit local women's charity

By: Rachel Nelson

www.amarilloscene.com

A few years ago Lindsay London started taking small steps toward a big dream. She helped form an organization called Femme to celebrate Panhandle women in the arts. Its focus is to bring attention to under produced and underexposed artists living in the Amarillo area while benefiting a local women's charity.

Femme's third annual art show will take place August 18 in the Nat Ballroom.

"I'm very proud of this show," London said. "It started very small and last year we had over 350 people attend."

The doors will open at 8 p.m. and the show will begin at 9 p.m. It will cost $10 to enter, and 100 percent of proceeds will go toward benefiting a chosen charity. Although all artists and performers are women, everyone is welcome to come see the show.

"It's by no means limited to women," London said.

The all-ages event is B.Y.O.B., and wine and refreshments will be available.

Last year Femme generated $1,700 for the Downtown Women's Center. In 2005, $1,500 was raised for Martha's House.

"I think Femme is important because a lot of times women in the arts can go underexposed. I really love the fellowship of all the women getting together and creating an evening that is so eclectic," London said.

This year's show will consist of photography and art exhibits as well as performances from local female talent. Sahara Nar will put on a belly dancing performance, and the Whiskey Makin' Mamas will present a burlesque show. There will be various musicians and a slam poet. London said that performers throughout the years have ranged in age from 10 to 70, and it's not too late to get involved. Those interested in participating in the show should contact London by calling (806)433-2409.

"I think the femme show is necessary in the Panhandle because it helps women realize that they are just as appreciated in their art as men are, and it gives exposure to youthful and otherwise shy young women," said Megan McDaniel, a production designer for the show.
"It's always been a very exciting and fun event and I look forward to it every year," she said.

Guests From Around The World Drawn To Palo Duro Canyon's "Texas"

By Rachel Nelson

http://www.amarilloscene.com/

Those visiting Palo Duro Canyon to see the legendary musical Texas will notice some big changes around the Pioneer Amphitheatre. Bobby Lee, co-owner of the Big Texan Steak Ranch in Amarillo, has helped make renovations in the catering department.

According to Lee, in recent years the audience of Texas has declined, falling to numbers as low as 400 per night. "We started putting the 'T' back in Texas. It's all coming back to life," he said.

Upon arrival, visitors will notice the new beverage station where they can satisfy their thirst with iced tea or lemonade. Mister coolers have also been installed to help beat the summertime heat. Lee said the coolers provide a comfortable climate of 77 degrees while keeping insects away by running an extract from the root of an African plant through the misters. The repellant, Lee said, is non-toxic and keeps bugs away because they hate the smell of the root.

The previous food station has been closed so that the Big Texan can cater hot steaks off their custom-made rotating grill that spans seven-feet in diameter. Visitors dine outdoors in what Lee calls "the world's most beautiful dining room," which overlooks the Canyon. The Texas flag has been painted on top of the picnic tables in the dining area so that guests from around the world can get a true taste of the Lone Star State.

Lee sees the Big Texan's involvement in the project as a natural fit. "It's so important to give them a good show and hot food off the grill. They should leave telling themselves, 'I don't know which was better, the show or the food.'"

Phase one of the catering project was completed June 1. Lee said future plans include extending private areas for private functions for show nights as well as off nights.

Kris Dowd, a long-time Amarillo resident, said he has never taken the time to go and see Texas. "I've lived here all my life and I've never seen it and everyone else has seen it. The weather is great and the show is just opening. Plus, I'm from Texas, so it's part of my heritage." Dowd decided to go watch the show last month when his work, KAMR News Channel Four, gave him free tickets. "It's something you always hear about, but you don't go out of your way to check it out," he said.

Lee agreed that many Amarillo residents take the Canyon for granted, including himself. "This has been in my backyard my whole life," he said.

Lee said he hasn't seen"Texas since 1976 when he graduated from high school and urges local people to go out and see the show. "I find myself asking, 'Why did I never come to this? Why did I never come? Why not get an experience of what our area's all about?"

Lee said more people close to home are expected to attend Texas this year because high gas prices have put a damper on vacation plans. He also added that the annual showing of Texas has a big affect on Amarillo's economy. "When attendance is down down here, everyone in Amarillo feels it including hotels and restaurants," he said.

The catering isn't all that's new with–Texas. "We have a lot of new equipment from the lighting standpoint," said Brandon Mitchell, light designer for the show. "It's going to improve the quality of the lighting design. It's newer technology. We were using outdated stuff. This is one of the largest upgrades of lighting that's happened in years."

Last year a larger prairie fire was added with the installation of a propane fire system. "It's gonna be good and it's gonna be bigger and better than ever," Mitchell said.

House Manager Brett Burris said the Canyon Economic Development Committee donated $23,000 to upgrade the sound system at the amphitheatre.

Texas has switched back to its original script with a few modifications, Burris said. The gift shop also has been modified with the adding of the Texas Soda Shop, which offers frozen milkshakes.

"They'll have hand-scooped ice-cream, popsicles, ice cream sandwiches and more," Burris said.

Frances Krolczyk traveled to the Panhandle for the first time from Houston to see Texas. She called the show "hilarious," as it is laced with Texas humor.

"I've enjoyed the visit. Amarillo is beautiful. I'm proud I'm from Texas," she said. "I've never seen the Panhandle. That's the thing about Texas... there's a lot of things to see."

The show is presented in a natural wild west set-up.

"What a backdrop," Lee said when describing the set.

Texas also includes an exciting story line with enthusiastic performances from the cast. An award is given each night to the person who traveled the longest distance to see the show. On the night that Krolczyk visited the Canyon, there were 1,028 people in attendance, and a woman from India received the award.

The amphitheatre seats 1,800 people. Texas opened on June 4 and will continue showing every Tuesday through Saturday night until August 18. For more information about the show and ticket prices, visit http://www.texas-show.com/.

Burris said upcoming concerts are in the works for the amphitheatre."We will advertise it when it's all set in stone," he said.

Team Impact Crusade scheduled for Church at Quail Creek

By: Rachel Nelson

http://www.amarilloscene.com/

According to Dr. Ed Young of Second Baptist Church in Houston, 1,200 decisions were made for Christ during four nights of a Team Impact Crusade at his church.

"If you are looking to make an impact for Jesus Christ in your community and in your church, then let me personally recommend Team Impact. This team of humble, hard-working guys has done their homework. They come prepared and let me tell you, they work hard," Young said.

Team Impact travels to churches, schools, military bases and other locations to perform amazing stunts including breaking stacks of bricks with their elbows, power lifting heavy weights and ripping phone books in half. In the midst of the intensity, they will present the Gospel message by giving personal testimonies and preaching the Word of God.

There are four chances left to see electrifying performances of strength, force and power from Team Impact in Amarillo. The group of body builders will appear nightly at The Church at Quail Creek, located at 801 Tascosa Road, tonight through Sunday at 7 p.m. Admission to the event is free and those who attend will have a chance to win door prizes such as an XBOX 360, iPOD Video, LCD TV, PlayStation 3 and a Six Flags vacation.

Many Churches have seen the lives of their congregations changed during Team Impact Crusades. Their Web site, www.team-impact.com, said the group has learned that if they can get the crowd's attention, they will listen to what the team has to say.

"Our unique style of ministry uses the gifts of elite athletes performing feats of strength that demand attention. The appeal is nearly irresistible,especially for those who would normally never attend church," the Web site explains. "While the method may be different, the message remains the same -Salvation through grace through faith in Jesus Christ."

Other churches that say they have experienced the move of the Holy Spirit through Team Impact strongly recommend the technique for church and personal revival.

"I've enjoyed getting to know the guys at Team Impact over the last several years. Obviously these are great men of physical strength and stature, but what I like the most about them, what I really love about these guys, is their great strength for Christ and their heart for God," said Dr. Jack Graham, pastor of Prestonwood Baptist Church in Plano.

Graham said the Team Impact crusade is the most effective method of evangelism the church has ever seen.

All ages are encouraged to go to the show. For more information, visit team-impact.com or call The Church at Quail Creek at 806-358-7681.

A Need For Speed

Local singles take a new approach to dating

By: Rachel Nelson

http://www.amarilloscene.com/

The busyness of life can sometimes leave little time for doing the things oneenjoys, so dating on the go is gaining popularity. Amarillo representative Sharee Lamphere of Cupid.com says pre-dating, also known as speed dating, isideal for local singles desiring to meet new people.

"It's a great way to meet people that you wouldn't normally meet, and it's safer than meeting people online," she said. "It's not necessarily the bar scene – it's a little more classy than the bar scene. We promote classy eventsand there's no pressure."

People who participate in speed dating have the opportunity to speak with several prospective matches in one night by spending a short amount of time with each person.

"The ladies sit down and the men rotate every six minutes. You'd be surprised to know that you can tell if you want to talk to a person a second time or not," Lamphere said.

"I think it was the perfect amount of time to where you could meet someone and get to know them and know whether or not you want to talk to them anymore,"said Stephanie Steelman, a local single who tried speed dating. "You'd be surprised how much information you can get in six minutes."

Steelman recently moved to Amarillo from Beaumont and decided to try pre-dating to meet people in the local area. Although she admits that it took a lot of nerve to try speed dating, Steelman said she is glad she had the extra push to help her come out of her shell.

"I think everybody should give it a try just one time just to say you did it.It's not going to hurt you, and you never know, you might meet someone worth seeing," she said.

Steelmain said she met three men through pre-dating that she would consider talking to more.

"If it wasn't for this, I would never have met them. Because of what they do for a living and what I do for a living, we would have never crossed paths,"she said.

According to Lamphere, each person that participates in a pre-dating event can make notes on a "match card." If two people mutually decide they want to talk a second time or go on a real date, they can make contact through Cupid.com.

Lamphere also offers the single match guarantee for one event to those who don't match with anybody. "Then you can come to the next one for free," she said.

For each event that is held, there is an age margin so that the people mingling are around the same age group. According to Lamphere, the age group that tends to be the most interested in speed dating ranges from 27 to 39 years old, but an event will be hosted in June that will invite a younger audience.

Dustin Cantrell is a 22-year-old single who said he looks forward to attending the event.

"I like to meet new people," he said. "I'm not looking to get married next week or anything like that. If it goes somewhere else then it does, and if not then you may have a new friend."

Cantrell said he sees the advantages to speed dating."If it's going bad, you only have a few minutes with them so it's not like you have to cut the date off early or anything like that. Where else are you going to find 10 other people looking to have fun and go on a date? Where else can you do that?" he said.

Lamphere said Cupid.com's pre-dating service aims to recruit professionals to participate in the events in order to weed out potential duds.

"We try to encourage people who have careers; people who aren't living at home with mom and dad; people who have ambition," she said. "It's a perfect way to meet people who are in the same boat whether they have been divorced or they just went full force into their career and now they've decided that they want to do the family thing."

There are opportunities in upcoming months to get a taste of this growing trend.All single professionals ages 35 to 45 are invited to join in at Marty's Dining and Entertainment May 15 at 7 p.m. Bourbon Street Café will host anevent for the 45 to 59 age group at 6 p.m. It costs $35 to those who registerat least two days in advance. Registration is held online at www.pre-dating.com. It will cost $40 for those who register later.

The event for the younger age group will be held at Café Bella June 13 at 7 p.m. It will cost $25 to those who register before June 11 and $30 afterwards.

"I think it's definitely reasonable," Cantrell said. "That'd be a dinner somewhere with one person. A night out on the town is going to cost a lot more than that, and you're meeting more than just one person."

For more information, visit www.cupid.com/predating or e-mail amarillo@predating.com.

Susan Gibson to return to 'Wide Open Spaces'

By: Rachel Nelson

www.ac-ranger.com

Amarillo College alumni Susan Gibson will return to the wide open spaces she once called home Saturday.

Gibson wrote one of the songs that helped the Dixie Chicks become famous.

"I love going back up there. Not to be cheesy, but that's where the wide open spaces are. Amarillo has the most beautiful sunsets," Gibson said.

Gibson will perform the song "Wide Open Spaces" with the Palo Duro Metro Chorus as they present "Under Panhandle Skies" at the Globe-News Center for the Performing Arts. Then Gibson's band will play a set.

"I'm looking forward to the gig," she said.

Natalie Stephenson has been involved with the Palo Duro Metro Chorus for 32 years. She also looks forward to the performance.

"Susan's a delight to sing with," Stephenson said. "She's very down-to-earth, very gracious and so easy to get along with and to perform with. We get to be her backup on 'Wide Open Spaces,' and we're so excited."

Stephenson said the Palo Duro Metro Chorus does an annual show in the fall.

"We've been working for this ever since last spring," she said.

Other performers at the event will include Keith Reimer from McLean, a double quartet called B-8, a quartet called Star Struck and a gentleman's quartet called Dynomite.

Tickets to the event are available from Panhandle Tickets and at United Supermarkets. They also may be obtained at Randy's Music Mart in Amarillo and the WT Event Center in Canyon. Ten percent of the net revenue from the performance will be donated to Hospice Care of the Southwest.

Gibson moved to Amarillo when she was in the eighth grade and attended Bonham Middle School. She graduated from Amarillo High School in 1990. She spent two years at West Texas A&M University and two semesters at AC. In the fall of 1993, Gibson packed her things and headed to forestry school in Montana.

During her time at AC, Gibson accidentally took a Greek class."I thought it was conversational Greek, but it wasn't. It was translating Bible Greek. It was very interesting," she said.

Eventually, Gibson was satisfied that she had signed up for the class. What she learned still is benefiting her today, she said.

"I make my living with words," she said. "It was important to me as a writer to choose how I use these words. That class really helped me give conscious thought to choose my words carefully. I think that's an important lesson for any kind of writer."

Gibson said AC was a good bridge for her to get ready to move to Montana.

"A lot of the friends I have in Amarillo, I met at AC," she said.

Her first Christmas home from Montana, Gibson scribbled a few words down in a notebook, never imagining that the pen strokes she was making would make her house payment one day.

"I distinctly remember writing the lyrics to 'Wide Open Spaces,'" she said. "I absent-mindedly left the notebook on my mom's kitchen table."

A few weeks later, Gibson's mother mailed her a care package of the things she had left in Amarillo on her stay. The notebook was among the items. Once Gibson re-read the lyrics that she had jotted down, she put them to some music she had been strumming out on her guitar.

"My mom's care package was a gentle reminder that I wouldn't have got to go out on my own near as much if it wasn't for that care package," she said.

A band she played with in Amarillo for six years, the Groobies, also started Gibson on her road to success. Lloyd Maines, father to Dixie Chicks member Natalie Maines, produced the Groobies' records.

"When we recorded our first record, called Wayside, it had 'Wide Open Spaces' on there and he gave it to Natalie because she had just started singing with the Dixie Chicks," Gibson said.

Once the Dixie Chicks got their hands on the song and played it for a few live audiences, they knew it was a success. They chose it to be one of 12 to go on their first album.

Gibson now lives on a quiet piece of land in Wayside, between San Antonio and Austin.

"I was looking to move closer to the Austin area, because there's a lot of music around here," she said.

Gibson now finds herself in a network of musicians.

"The musicians are its own community, and we share what we know about what we know," she said. "It's kind of like a family."

Gibson is not married and lives with her dog and two cats.

"I feel like I'm about as settled down as I'm going to get," she said. "I love playing - I sure love to play."

Gibson has advice for everyone pursuing a dream.

"It fell together like shuffling a deck of cards," she said. "It's so out of my hands. Do what you would do, and wait for the rest of the world to catch onto you."

LG's new phone to stop drunk dialing

By: Rachel Nelson

www.ac-ranger.com

Cell phones were invented to make phone calls, right? Today they serve many functions. From playing games and instant messaging to surfing the Web and taking pictures, who would have guessed cell phone technology ever would come this far?

Manufacturers in Korea upped the ante last year when they introduced the LG breathalyzer phone. When these gadgets hit the U.S. later this year, cell phones will serve one more purpose: a handy sobriety test in your pocket.

The invention gained tremendous popularity in Korea, especially among younger crowds.

More than 200,000 of the models have been sold in Korea, according to www.news.com, and probably will spread like wildfire in North America as well.

How does it work? There is a tiny hole located on the side of the phone that a tipsy person can easily blow into. If the alcohol level is over the legal limit of 0.08, an animation pops up of a car swerving into a cone. That tells the partier it is not safe to drive.

Not only does the built-in breathalyzer serve as a friendly reminder not to get behind the wheel while intoxicated, it also fights against drunk dialing. The device can be programmed to not allow a user to dial certain numbers -especially exes - when the operator has had too much to drink. This feature could prevent embarrassing yourself when you're in a drunken stupor.

Keep your eyes peeled for this genius invention. It may keep you out of some sobering situations.

Local Talent Needed: Independent Film Maker Plans Release in 2006

By: Rachel Nelson
For Edge Monthly

David Marvin describes himself as a simple man with big dreams. For 30 years, he has worked patiently toward starting an independent film production company.

"This will pay for my other plans which include building a complete motion picture and television production studio, a recording studio and music manufacturing facility, and building a family entertainment park," Marvin said.

The park would provide local area citizens the opportunity to participate in the operation of the park, providing employment as well as business and career opportunities.

"Marvin Entertainment (TM) will focus on hiring those in the selected community currently living below the poverty level, providing a living wage and benefits that will allow them the opportunity to make a better life for themselves," Marvin said.

There is one major obstacle standing between Marvin and his long-time goal: Money.

"Motion picture production is not cheap, even when working on what is considered a low-budget film."

It was in 1975 that, Marvin made the decision to pursue a career in writing and producing his own motion pictures.

"It didn't take me long to realize that Hollywood was not the place for me," he said.
"Not because I think I am better than the established method of motion picture production, but because the purpose of any business is to make a profit and a new-comer to Hollywood never makes money."

In attempting to bypass Hollywood, Marvin is forced to raise funds through investors or product placement and promotional opportunities. Though this has proved itself to be a difficult task, Marvin said he is closer now than he has ever been before.

"I currently have an investor who is raising the production funds, and will receive 50 per cent of the gross profit derived from the film. This is only right," Marvin said.

The first film Marvin plans to release will most likely be made in Amarillo.

"It's Only Make Believe!©" takes place in a fairytale village hidden deep in a federally protected forest far away from civilization.

In the story, the village is populated by characters from fairytale books who live simply and peacefully until they are interrupted by outsiders trying to get in. Finally, the outsiders hire a lawyer to represent them and present their grievances to the villages.

The attorney negotiates an agreement and the villagers agree to allow the outsiders in on a trial basis.

Together, they elect a town council to make decisions for the village and begin to pass new laws. As a result of their newfound civilization, they hire policemen, judges and officials to enforce the laws and handle the business of the village. They enact taxes to pay for their new costs, but few can afford them, and before long resentment and rebellion begin.

Like all of Marvin's scripts, this story ends with a moral and a lesson.

"This motion picture will not contain sexual material, objectionable language or gratuitous violence and will be suited for family viewing," Marvin said.

Marvin Entertainment (TM) will film its movies using local area, non-union talent and crews. This means that average people with special talents from the local area will have a chance to make their dreams come true as well as earn some extra cash.

Although a date is not set in stone, Marvin hopes to release the film by July of 2006.

Marvin is in need of actors, actresses, set and costume designers and anyone else interested in helping on the project. For a cast list or more information on how you can participate, contact Marvin via e-mail at marvinentertainment@yahoo.com.

"It is my sincere goal to help others to realize their dreams, and Lord willing, this is what I will do."

For this local dreamer, simplicity is bliss.

Classic tale comes to life

Amarillo celebrates premiere of ‘The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe’; AC offers fun class analyzing Narnia series

By: Rachel Nelson
For Edge Monthly

First published in 1950, ‘The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe’ was the first of C.S Lewis’ Chronicles of Narnia series. It told a tale of four siblings who entered a fantasy world called Narnia.

During their adventures, the children encountered talking animals, a not-so-nice queen and a magical lion. This imaginative drama is tied together with Christian principles.

According to http://www.lessonsfromthelion.com/, “The children come face to face with temptation and fear which, in the end, help them to grasp a true understanding of forgiveness and salvation.”

The Chronicles of Narnia series has entertained readers for more than half a century, and fans will see the first story come to life in movie theaters Friday, Dec. 9.

The United Artist theater, located at 8275 W. Amarillo Boulevard, is promoting the premiere of ‘The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe’ by featuring a creative lobby display that spectators won’t want to miss. There also will be a costume contest that the audience will be able to participate in.

The UA will premiere the movie at midnight of the opening date. Among the crowd will be Dr. Mike Bellah who teaches English composition and technical writing at Amarillo College.

“I have class the next day, but I can go sleepy like my students do,” he said.

Bellah is a long-time fan of the Narnia series. He became interested in the books when he read them to his 5 children in the late 70’s and early 80’s. When Bellah obtained his Master’s degree, he wrote his thesis on the 7 stories of the Chronicles. Now he continues to read the popular books to his grandchildren.

“Everyone should go (see “The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe),” Bellah said. “Lewis didn’t believe that the Chronicles were just for children. He felt that any story worth reading as a child is worth reading as an adult.”

The way Lewis presents his Christian vision is captivating to many of his readers. Although Bellah shares Lewis’ Christian mindset, he believes that a person of any religion would enjoy the film.

“I think anyone, Christian or not, will enjoy the movie just because [the story] is so engaging. Don‘t try to be over-analytical and look at the theology of the movie. Just enjoy it.

“Christians will see symbols that relate to their faith, but Lewis didn’t set out to write for Christian allegory. He set out to write a good story and the other just came naturally because that‘s who he was,” Bellah said.

Those interested in the Romantic aspect of the Narnia series can enroll in a class that will be offered at AC in the spring 2006 semester. Bellah will teach the course.

“It’s for people who want to enrich their lives and have fun with it,” Bellah said.

According to Bellah, the class will meet on Monday nights from 7:00 to 9:30 for 8 weeks. The course will begin on Jan. 23 and be completed on Mar. 20. It costs around $51 to enroll. Anyone who wishes to sign up for the class should contact AC’s registrar’s office by calling 371-5000.

In the Spotlight: Bob Hopkins

Local musician plays in Amarillo for more than 20 years

By: Rachel Nelson

For Edge Monthly

A piano elegantly whispers easy-listening tunes asthe clamor of Amarillo night life unfolds around it.In the corner Bob Hopkins sits behind his favoriteinstrument with a stream of local talent flowing fromhis fingertips.

“I’ve banged on a piano since I was nine or ten years old,” Hopkins said. Creating the right atmosphere is Hopkins’ goal as hehammers away jazz, country, classic rock and bluesfavorites.

He can be spotted playing at Marty’s Restaurant and Bar a couple of times a month as wellas at Bodegas cocktail lounge on Polk Street Thursday nights. On occasion, Hopkins provides live entertainment at the Amarillo Club. Every Sunday he puts his gift to use at Hollywood Road Community Church off ofHollywood Road and Soncy.

General manager of Marty’s Becky Torres said she enjoys having Hopkins play at the restaurant.

“He’s a great guy,” she said.

Hopkins, who also plays guitar, came to the Panhandle in the early 1980’s while working with a Vegas-styleshow band out of Florida. The band played at the former Hilton Hotel in Amarillo where Hopkins got offered a job with country band Kris Karpenter andTexas.

“We were the house band at the Hilton for about two years,” Hopkins said.

In 1984, Hopkins began playing keyboard with former local rock band Krakt, named for their off-centered, crazy personalities. Krakt jammed in the Amarillo area for six years before calling it quits in 1990.

“The age-old things got to us. We partied a little too much,” Hopkins said of the breakup. “We thought long and hard about [staying together], but we were burnt out.”

Krakt gained popularity throughout the years and opened for acts such as the Doobie Brothers, Creedence Clearwater Revival and Stevie Ray Vaughn. Local fans were disappointed to see the band who had at one time attracted 4,000 spectators to a gig at FunFest split up.

“The last day we played together, we announced we were breaking up. People were crying and I couldn’t believe that many people even cared. I didn’t realize it until that day, and it was our last day together,” Hopkins said.

Despite going their separate ways, all members ofKrakt remain friends. “I’d jam with those guys tomorrow,” Hopkins said.

After Krakt split up, Hopkins advanced his musical career by attending Berklee College of Music in Boston, Mass., where he graduated with honors and obtained a Bachelor’s degree in music.

According toHopkins, his playing ability went up 100% during the Berklee experience.

“Everybody there was a musician,” he said. “Even the janitors were musicians. Everybody talked music and knew music and played music.”

Hopkins went to work for the Amarillo Civic Center as a stage hand in 1995. He was promoted to event supervisor and held the position of production manager when he left in 2003.

“I just felt like I had accomplished a lot of things I wanted to accomplish and wanted to go back to playing music. I missed that.”

Most recently Hopkins was a part of the Texas Blues Rangers for two years, but left the band last year because of creative differences.

Future plans include releasing a CD next summer that will feature Hopkins playing with studio musicians. In the mean time, however, making music is at the top of this pianist’s agenda.

“I want to keep working with music in any way I can. Writing music is what I really like to do. It’s manipulating music, making music do what you want it to do,” he said.

After playing in the Panhandle for well over two decades, Hopkins has one complaint about the state of the music scene in Amarillo: there is no place for musicians to play.

“There is an upscale promotion. All the concerts go to Lubbock. The business leaders don’t support the music industry as an economic power. We could draw in huge amounts of money for the community if we supported local concerts and we had a venue the size of the United Spirit Arena in Lubbock, but nobody wants to build it here just to fit in with the norms,” Hopkins said.

Be it as it may, Hopkins is available to play at any bar, restaurant or special event. He can be reachedvia e-mail at rbtjames@cox.net.

Five Christian Bands Scheduled to Play in Amarillo

By: Rachel Nelson
For Edge Monthly

Several bands from the Christian music scene will be making a joyful noise in the Church at Quail Creek San Jacinto Baptist in upcoming months.

The Casting Crowns’ Lifesong Tour will make its way through Amarillo on Thursday, October 13. One thing’s for certain: lead singer Mark Hall and other band members will not miss youth night the previous Wednesday at their home church near Atlanta, Ga.

Christian Music Planet Magazine reported in the October issue that the Casting Crowns have a calling for youth ministry. The band’s popularity does not interfere with their ability to be there for the kids. They offer spiritual leadership to young people by “shattering the cooler-than-thou barrier between teens and grown-ups,” the article reported.

Opening for the Casting Crowns will be Building 429, who take their name from Ephesians 4:29.
“Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers” (KJV).

“It’s quite simple… the words we choose to use do have an impact. Every single word that you choose is a word that will either lead a person to a closer relationship with the Lord or direct them away from any knowledge that you might have of Jesus Christ,” the band’s web site, http://www.building429.com/, explains.

Guest speaker Tony Nolan will offer words of encouragement at the show.
Tickets to the concert may be obtained in advance at Family Christian Bookstore, LifeWay Bookstore, The Church at Quail Creek and http://www.tcqc.org/. Prices range from $18 to $40. Groups of 15 or more may obtain balcony seats for $15 each.

The fun’s not over yet. The Restored Tour 2005 will make its stop in Amarillo Thursday, November 3. Featured artists will include Christian music legend Jeremy Camp, 16-year-old singer/songwriter Bethany Dillon and the Afters, who are returning to the Panhandle for the second time this year. The Afters have been popularized on MTV for their song “Beautiful Love,” which is being played on mainstream radio across the country.

Bethany Dillon, a small-town girl with a mighty mission, is a fairly new voice to Christian music. She popped up in 2004 with her hit single “All I Need”, and credits God for all she has accomplished.

“Even in the moments when I want to give up, when I want to just be careless and act my age and not feel the responsibility that God has given me, I can’t help but feel the desire for Him. I can’t help but try to follow Him. And even that desire is from Him. I couldn’t do that by myself,” Dillon said.

Like other Christian artists, Dillon said she does not let her fame get in the way of her everyday walk with Christ.

“I’m trying to learn how to listen to people and how not to think that this is all I am,” Dillon said of her life in the spotlight.

“It’s not going to change the fact that at home I’m going to put away the clean dishes, and I’m going to have to be nice to my siblings. It encourages me, but it doesn’t define me,” she said.

The Church at Quail Creek seats 2,500 people, so there is plenty of room for fans across the area to enjoy the upcoming evenings of praise and worship. For more information about either show, visit www.tcqc.org.

Kevin Martin & the HiWatts rock Amarillo for third consecutive year

By: Rachel Nelson

For Edge Monthly

Sorry HiWatts fans.
Kevin and the crew will not be returning to Amarillo for at least another year, according to front man Kevin Martin, commonly known for his lead role in the band Candlebox.

“We will be touring South Africa,” he said.

The band looks forward to seeing their Panhandle Pals when they return to Texas. “We’ve got a lot of love here in Texas, especially Amarillo,” Martin told spectators at Rock 108’s “Party on the Patio” held September 1 at Ruby Tequillas Mexican restaurant.

Although fans were disappointed to hear the news, many of them headed to the Midnight Rodeo to savor the HiWatt’s performance while they could.

“Fallen From the Nest,” a band out of Dallas, provided a rockin’ opening act. FFTN opened for the HiWatts in Amarillo last November for the first time and hadn’t played with them since until the September 1 show, said FFTN lead singer/guitarist, Dickey Rhodes.

The HiWatts began their Summer 2003 "Disturb Your Neighbor" tour in Amarillo, and has returned every year since.

“[Amarillo] seemed like the right place to start. Candlebox always did real well in Amarillo,” Martin said. “It’s kind of on the way to Texas,” he joked. “We like the way y’all say ‘y’all.’”

Spastic Australian band Full Scale put on an energetic performance following FFTN. Space, who is also Australian, compared the band’s sound to that of rock band System of a Down’s. Full Scale had a very political message to send. Some spectators agreed with their anti-war, FCC-hating views, but others booed in disapproval. With all arguments aside, however, Full Scale got the crowd riled up before the HiWatts took the stage.

A new face is among the HiWatts this time around. Terry Rowe, a long-time friend of Martin’s from Ohio, replaced former HiWatts drummer “Dish.”

“Dish just wasn’t cutting it,” Martin said. Martin added that there were no hard feelings about Dish’s dismissal.

Another slight adjustment was made to the band since last playing in Amarillo in Nov. of 2004. Lead guitarist "Space" is now an official member of the HiWatts.

“He just called me up and told me he’s ready to do this full time,” Martin said.

Space, formally of Australian metal band “Momento,” moved to America in April of 2003 where Momento shared a studio with Martin. “Kevin and I clicked,” Space said.

Space said he enjoys playing in Amarillo as well. “This place has always been great to us,” he said.

Three of the songs on the HiWatt’s first album, “The Possibility of Being,” were written by Space: “Telepathic,” “Enemy” and “If We Could.”

Space also writes music for Lindsay Lohan and Kelly Clarkson.

“I am pleased to be a fan of Kelly Clarkson,” he said. “She’s one of the artists these days who pushes the songs she’s singing as her own.”

HiWatts fans can look forward to the release of a new album this November. “Get Up, Stand Up” will be purchasable online at http://www.kmband.com/. “It’s a very political record,” Martin said.

Martin identifies himself not as a Republican or Democrat, but as a Humanitarian. He shares many of the same views as Bob Marley, he said.

The group's first album also can be obtained on through their Web site.

According to Martin, the artwork on the upcoming album is “pretty graphic.” One of the messages conveyed through the new album is people taking back control of the world, Martin said. Martin warns that there will be some uncomfortable pictures included in the artwork.

From Amarillo, Kevin Martin and the HiWatts loaded up and traveled to Abilene to perform a show on Friday night. El Paso was next on the agenda for Saturday.

From Texas, they will travel to the West Coast where Martin will marry his sweet heart, Natalie, of three-and-a-half years on September 17 in Los Angeles.

Fans can stay updated on the HiWatts’ schedule by visiting http://www.kmband.com/. Amarilloans can keep an eye out for a recording of “HiWatts live in Amarillo,” which was made at the show on September 1.

Edge Monthly's exclusive interview with Kevin Martin

Edge Monthly: So, what ever happened to Candlebox?
Kevin: We broke up in ‘99. We’d done 10 years as a band, the music was going in different directions, Pete and I weren’t getting along. I did one more tour with him and called it quits.

Edge Monthly: How/When did the HiWatts evolve?
Kevin: Colin (Bassist for the HiWatts) and I met in ‘99, but I was locked in a contract with Maverick Records for 2 years. In 2001, Colin and I started writing songs. Here we are 4 years and 2 records later.

Edge Monthly: Where are you from?
Kevin: I was born in Chicago and raised in San Antonio. My mother was an opera singer and my dad was a jazz musician.

Edge Monthly: Why do you call your band the HiWatts?
Kevin: It came from a Bob Marley song called ‘Bad Card.’ The lyrics go, ‘I want to disturb my neighbor and blow them to full watts.’

Edge Monthly: What’s your motivation?
Kevin: Music, that’s it. That’s all I have…. And the fans, people who love music.

Edge Monthly: What’s the best part about being in this industry?
Kevin: The fans. The people that love music and come to see you play. The ability to make music that people respond and react to.

Edge Monthly: What’s the worst part about being in this industry?
Kevin: How big of a business it has become. Music is the only art form that can move a country. It’s a business and it shouldn’t be.

Edge Monthly: When will the HiWatts new album be released?
Kevin: "Get Up, Stand Up" will come out in November of this year.

Edge Monthly: What’s your most memorable performance?
Kevin: There’s one show that’s really, really special to me. I was playing in Miami on Jan. 4, 2004 the day my father died. That will be forever.

Edge Monthly: What are your favorite things about Amarillo?Kevin: The people, Eric Slater… it’s just a great town. Everybody here shows us a really great time.
Edge Monthly: Tell us about the time your fans raised $8,000 for the HiWatts.

Kevin: That was pretty cool, man. We put a note on the web page (www.kmband.com) that we needed $8,000 to tour Europe and they sent it. It was a really, really huge thing for us.

Edge Monthly: Who are your most important musical influences?

Kevin: Odis Redding, Robert Plant, John Lee Hooks, Billy Holliday, John Lennon.
I met Henry Rollins when I was 13 years old. I went on tour with them in Sept. of ‘94. I was so nervous that I couldn’t even speak to Henry Rollins the whole tour. The last show was in Hamburg, and he came up to me and asked, “What’s your deal?” I told him, "You changed my life when I was 13 years old."

Note: Kevin met Rollins because he was knocked down and busted his head open at the show. Rollins helped him to the back where a nurse aided him. Rollins remembered the experience as vividly as Kevin did.

Edge Monthly: Do you and the guys ever get in arguments?

Kevin: Yes, we will discuss it over a cup of coffee the next morning.

Edge Monthly: What are your beliefs?

Kevin: I was raised Roman Catholic, and didn’t like those rules so no I live by my own rules. I believe religion teaches children discipline and respect, but is not meant to be oppressed or exploited. I will say that the Mormans and Scientologists are out of their minds. Any religion that is like a cult is oppressive. I have a belief in a stronger being. I don’t know if it’s Jesus Christ. I don’t mistreat people or animals. I live my life in a right way.

Edge Monthly: Do you have anything else to say?
Kevin: Come see the HiWatts!

Praise in Palo Duro Canyon

The Afters perform first in Christian Concert Series
By Rachel Nelson

For Edge Monthly

The Afters kicked off the Christian Concert Series at the Pioneer Amphitheater in Palo Duro Canyon June 27. The concert opened with prayer led by Will Ratliff, followed by performances from Andy Chase and Texas Express.

Shane Chadwick is a worship director for God of Wonders Fellowship, located at 4100 Republic in Amarillo. He and his family attended the premiere of the Christian Concert Series.

“I’m down with Christian music. There’s not enough of it,” Chadwick said.

Andy Chase, with the help of an electronic harmonizer, opened his gig acoustic-style with a gospel comedy song about Moses and the Israelites spending 40 years in the wilderness. Before singing a song titled “Draw me nearer,” Chase told the audience, “If you’ll sing with me, I’d be honored.”

Following a brief intermission, the Afters were greeted with a Texas-size welcome from the crowd. They performed hits such as “Beautiful Love,” “You” and “Love Will Make You Beautiful.” Singer and guitarist Josh Havens had a message for the fans. He encouraged the audience not to waste life on things that aren’t important. He quoted his father, who lost his two-year-long battle with cancer last year.

“Live every single day of your life with meaning and purpose because you never know how long you have,” he said.

Just one day before their Panhandle performance, the Afters appeared on MTV’s ‘Advance Warning,’ a show that features bands on the verge of getting big.

Amanda Harwerth, a box office employee at the Pioneer Amphitheater, said she had never heard of the Afters until she saw their MTV interview.

“I think they have a lot of potential as a Christian group, honestly, because if they were on MTV, they have to be something special. Not everyone gets on MTV,” Harwerth said.

Jesse Janis, a roadie for the Afters, performs tasks such as moving heavy equipment and selling t-shirts, stickers and Cds. Janis met the group in the Dallas-Ft. Worth area where he said the entire band now resides.

“I started going to Afters shows at 16 and lost count after about 45,” Janis said.

According to Janis, after leaving the Panhandle, the Afters headed to the Seattle area to play five gigs in three days.

Immediately following the show, the Texas quartet met with fans to sign autographs and chat. The Afters seemed to enjoy playing the concert as much as spectators enjoyed watching it.

“The people [here] are phenomenal. They’re some of the nicest people in the country, and definitely in Texas. I also enjoy the cool nights,” Havens said.

Brad Wigg on bass and vocals was astonished by the wildlife the Canyon has to offer.
“I’ve never seen such big spiders,” he said.

During their performance, Wigg noticed a spider crawling on the stage, and decided to name him “Stevie.” This is only on example of the band’s charisma.

Drummer Marc Dodd’s fun began before the concert started.

“I had fun. I felt like we were playing G.I. Joe. We went hiking earlier,” he said.

Guitarist/vocalist Matt Fuqua, the only native Texan in the band, enjoyed the scenery.
“I haven’t spent much time in Amarillo, but the Canyon’s beautiful,” he said.

The Afters’ latest album, “I Wish We All Could Win,” hit shelves in February. It can be purchased at any entertainment store or online at theafters.com.

Don’t miss a chance to see other bands in the Christian Concert Series. Monk and Neagle are next in line on July 25, leaving three more opportunities to enjoy a night of fun-filled praise and worship.

Genny Owens will be performing on August 15. The month of September holds shows by Lyle Lovett on the 2nd and Shane Bernard on the 28th. All concerts are being held on Monday nights in the Palo Duro Canyon Amphitheater.