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The Damn Torpedoes; A Tribute to Tom Petty

The Damn Torpedoes;  A Tribute to Tom Petty

By Joseph Martinez

This Austin band does justice and honors the music of “Tom Petty”

Playing timeless classics “TY” kept it true to the original song style. The band played flawlessly.

I ask “TY”

Question: How long has the band been together?

Ty: 4 ½ years , the newest member Is James ,Our key board player. He’s been with us about 1 ½ years

Question: how often do you play in San Antonio .

TY: Not too often but, looking forward to perform at “Sam’s Burger Joint” more often.

Question: I saw a video of you and Brooke Alyson from Night Bird

(A Stevie Nicks Tribute band) .

TY” Ya, Brooke and myself are like brother and sister. And  we love playing music  together.

(Readers; … If you haven’t seen then play together… Do IT! You won’t be sorry)

Question: Do you play only “Tom Petty and the heart breakers tunes?

TY: Anything that’s  “Tom Petty. He has an extensive library of songs

TY: If you learn how to play guitar and have an chance to play in an “Tom Petty Tribute band, I say  do it ,“Don’t pass it up!  LOL………

 

The Band  Members:

Ty Hurless – Vocals, rhythm guitar;

Tim Veillon – Lead Guitar;

Geno Stroia II- Bass;

James Reynolds – Keyboards/Guitar;

James Rannefeld – Drums

And the evening guest singer Robynn Shayne

 

Some of the evening songs

You Got Lucky

Honey Bee

Stop Dragging My Heart around

The Damn Torpedoes

Breakdown

You Don’t Know How It Feels

The waiting

Don’t come around here no more

 

The Damn Torpedoes has the right mix, Attitude, skill, flow freely spirit.

If you want to have an enjoyable evening, do yourself a favor and go check them out.

Pictures and story

By Joseph Martinez

River City Attractions

https://twitter.com/DamnTorpedoes

https://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Damn-Torpedoes/146595888256

http://www.reverbnation.com/thedamntorpedoes

 

Javier Galvan

      jgalvan                                                                                                  

PRESS RELEASE          

For Re: New CD Immediate Release

Jan. 22, 2014

from Javier Galvan (Duet with Manny D.)  Simplemente Mi Historia”

Title Track: “La Mujer”

In 2009, after 25 years of a very successful and blessed career in the main stream music industry, Javier Galvan, lead singer, owner and founder of the musical group, Fama, decided to retire to spend more time with his family and pursue a calling to serve the Lord as a full time Christian minister. His ministry work took him throughout the United States, Mexico, Central America and South America. Thanks to his loving wife, Norma, Javier was able to pursue his passion and serve the Lord while raising his family. In these past five years, Javier was able to produce new inspirational music and videos while spreading the Word and helping others.

After a lot of prayer and tugging of his heart by God, Javier has decided to return to the mainstream music industry with a renewed passion and mission.  He has not left the ministry by any means, but feels that coming out of retirement is an extension of the ministry God has given him. He was quoted in a recent interview that he is very excited about his new CD, the tour and the new band. Javier stated, “I’ll tell you what, the greatest gift God has given me is that time serving Him, enjoying my wife and my children. It has been a tremendous journey. The crazy thing is…I was busier when I was retired than when I was with Fama. Those five years flew by very quickly,”

Javier is very excited that he has signed with a new record label from Houston named “2911 Global Entertainment”. He is ready to hit the road and share the LOVE of GOD with his fans again.  The new CD will be released on March 11th and is titled “Simplemente Mi Historia“. The project is a collection of songs, where each song tells an inspirational story of Javier’s life and the lives of the people he loves.

The first single “La Mujer” is duo with a new Latin Artist named Manny D. The song includes a music video, honoring the lives of women.  Javier Galvan says that although he personally wrote all 12 songs on the CD, the true master and inspiration of the songs, is God. The single “La Mujer”, is already getting airplay on Hispanic radio stations in various markets throughout the United Airlines States and Mexico. The “Simplemente Mi Historia” Tour will be coming to you soon! God bless you and thank you for your support.

 

For Interviews and Music Request – Jesse Rodriguez * 832.289.8311 * djjumpinjess@gmail.com

For Booking Info: Troy Castillo * 210.609.2359 * troycastillo64@yahoo.com

Javier Galvan Musica * 210.733.0795 P.O. Box 100700 * San Antonio, Texas 78201

Octahedron @ the Olmos Pharmacy

Octahedron

        The evening started with the young indie-alt band Octahedron

 Playing tunes with melodic under tones.

Newly formed, in the of the summer of 2013 .These guys are the music of tomorrow. With a little more seasoning under their belt and a few more gigs they will be a force to be reckoned with.

They play all original songs.  Octahedron” Walk their own path.

The members of the band do have one thing in common. They say..

“Making music to make life better”

This hold true because some of their music sales from go to

“Charity World Vision”

http://www.reverbnation.com/octahedronmusic

I ask Elena and Austin, Why do you play without shoes?

 Answer “To feel the music”

 

The ages of these musicians ranges from 15 to 19 years.

How can I describable how they sound? Well a bit of

Regina Spektor, GIVERS, BOY, and a little like Fiona Apple,

 

The songs I particular like are:

“Cold Reality” and “The End Game”

         The members of Octahedron

Elena Lopez – Vocals, Keys Board
Austin Jimison – Guitar, Key Board
Ruben Lopez – Bass
Daniel Puente – Drums

Manager: Rey Lopez

Like in all band’s There are ebbs and tides

Time will tell where they will end up.

America has talent? The voice?

Time will tell

 With Their father Rey Lopez as the band manager,

 Elena and Rubens have a very good start along with fellow band members Austin & Daniel

Not being signed to any recording labels, it gives the band a wide door to explore their horizons

 Good Luck and Thanks for the Music……

Story and photographs’ Joseph Martinez

River City Attractions

Also a Special “Thank you” to “Olmos Pharmacy”

For having a venue for Musicians to show case their talents.

http://www.olmosrx.com/index.php/en/

Need more information on Octahedron

Try the links below.

 

https://www.facebook.com/#!/OctahedronBand

https://twitter.com/OctahedronMusic

http://octahedronmusic.com/

 

 

“Abbey Rode” A Beatles Tribute band

Abbey Rode” A Beatles Tribute band

Out of Houston Texas, Abbey Rode was given a warm San Antonio welcome at Sam’s Burger Joint. On Guitar and key board: Johnny Ono On Guitar: Marty Comeaux On Bass Guitar: Jay Bourgeois On Drums: Bill Thompson The set started off with a strong rendition of “Back to the USSR” As the band said “It’s good old rock and roll” and the Baby –Boomers, and the twenty something’s in the audience truly agreed. Song after song, the good time came in like a tidal waves. In honor of the upcoming 50th Beatle anniversary coming to America, they played “All my Loving”, It’s the first song the Beatles played on the Ed Sullivan show. “Abbey Rode” played the gambit of music from the early years to the later years. They covered Songs from Help, Revolver, Abbey Road, Sargent Pepper, albums and plenty more. Album’s…. you know those round 12″ black things that spin round and round made from vinyl. You guys who never had opportunity to listen to LP 33 1/3rd (LP= Long Play). You’ll be surprised how well it sounds, not to mention the enjoyment you’ll get reading the liner notes and discovering the art work from the past. Couples slow dancing, in embracing in each other arms. Others just were swaying, to and fro. It was a memorable evening for all. Abbey Rode… No Beatle wigs or costumes Just Great Music!! One thing I did notice… they have Beatle’s boots on. Cool…….. Rock on Guys!!

Story and pictures By Joseph Martinez River City Attractions

Check out their web site www.abbeyrode.com Face book Twitter Contact them at www.rocknhouston@yahoo.com

 

International Chef Waldo is Extraordinaire

Photos by Ramón Hernández

12-13-ChefWaldo-ReducedChef Waldo Frank Óscar Castro Zambrano is so prominent and so much as has been written about him and his famous dishes in countless superlative adjectives that it is hard to describe him and his creations without fear of being accused of plagiarism.

The story of this Wonderful, Amazing, Latino, Distinguished Outgoing human being, who is also Courteous, HHelpful, Exceptional and Flamboyant, is as astounding as its subject.

The world renowned chef’s love for cooking began when he was just a young boy and cooking became a passion that made him the best among his peers. Perhaps his secret is several lifetimes of recipes that his mother passed down to him as a sort of culinary inheritance.

Waldito, as he is affectionately called, completed his culinary studies in Lima, Perú in October 1981, spent two years working each position in the kitchen, then went on to cook in the most prestigious Peruvian hotel chains that sent him to Jamaica, Puerto Rico, the Cayman Islands and other Caribbean countries as an executive chef.

To learn firsthand about other Latin cuisines and the meaning of food in other countries, the industrious young man also spent some time traveling to Brazil, Ecuador and Bolivia.

That accumulated experience translated into an impressive resume that allowed the ambitious young chef to explore new horizons. He set his vision on the United States and in 1986, the chef, who was born on the fourth of July, migrated to Miami where, a year later, the go-getter obtained his certificate for Interior Decoration from the University of Miami followed by a business management degree in 1989.

Determined to succeed, in 1995, Waldo was named “Manager of the Year” of the Hyatt Regency at the Almamera in Coral Gables, Florida and in July 1999, he participated in El Foro 99, a technical symposium and exposition for professionals in the Latin American Food Industry.

The achiever forged ahead as production chef, banquet chef, executive chef and executive Sous chef for five-star hotels such as Hotel Inter-Continental, Don Shula’s Hotel & Gold Club, Radisson’s Deauville Resort,  the Sheraton and the Colonnade Hotel in Miami, Coral Gables, Miami Beach and Bal Harbour, Florida. It was also at these hotels where the charismatic chef was put in charge of private banquets for President Bill Clinton, Julio Iglesias, Enrique Iglesias, Meryl Streep and many other world-known celebrities.

Then it was on to the Doubletree Hotel in Atlanta, Buckhead, Georgia, where in 2002, the now acknowledged, class act chef received the “Leader of the Quarter” award.

Returning to Miami before the end of the year, the daring and dynamic chef opened Chick-N-Grill and by November, food critics for newspapers such as Perú Hoy were writing rave reviews about the tender, juicy and tasty chicken that emitted an exotic aroma, but was yet healthy due to Waldo’s unique combination of tropical herbs.

As a business owner, Waldo became the vice-president of the American Christian Chamber of Commerce and also started giving back to the community. Hence was recognized for his efforts with a Certificate of Appreciation from Dade Partners.

The year 2005, also signaled the first of many accolades to follow when he received a citation from the El Rey Jesús Leadership Institute.

Not one to rest on his laurels, in 2009, Chef Waldo arrived in the Alamo City to manage the Crowne Plaza Hotel. However, he was ready to set Texas’ culinary world on fire and give the city his Divine Taste in the way of catering with flair, but why San Antonio?

“I call it the baby Miami because there are people from so many nations and cultures; and it’s expanding,” the gregarious chef said with a smile.

Quickly building up a reputation for his culinary skills, it wasn’t long before the remarkable Peruvian became even more visible when he was featured on the Food Network’s television show, “Iron Chef” and “Hell’s Kitchen.”

The problem is that only those that attended an event that he catered, were able to enjoy his succulent dishes. To go public, in 2010 Waldo came up with the idea of mixing food with entertainment in the way of live music acts when he organized “Sabor A Mi” for the National Hispanic Professional Organization (NHPO). The ingenious chef then garnered more publicity when he delighted many San Antonio mom’s by cooking up a special international breakfast for a Telemundo television Mother’s Day event.

JosieBocanegra-Buffet-Reduced

The demand for his culinary delights indicated that he needed to open his own restaurant, but no one would help him. However, he was daring, rented a space in a strip center and started out with one table with his wife Josephine “Josie” Bocanegra waiting on first one, then two and three tables as the determined chef cooked, served, washed dishes and ended the night with broom and mop in hand as he helped his wife clean up the place.

“I decided to open my own restaurant because it was in my plans, but it wasn’t easy trying to take an idea to make money without having money. The business was going up, but I still needed help and that’s when they told me about Acción,” Waldo said of the organization that was instrumental in his survival.

Then, as a music promoter and sponsored by NHPO, in October 2010, he brought in Tito Puente Jr., Domenic Marte and Los Tres Reyes to the Sunken Gardens. And yes, those in attendance were introduced to Waldo’s cooking.

The following year, Waldo hosted his own International Month Celebration that featured foods from ten countries on January 15, 2011 at Wonderland of the Americas. Later that same year, he brought his Taste of the America’s event plus eight salsa/merengue/reggaeton bands to what was now the “Sabor A Mi” International Festival Salsarengueton.

His “Taste of the America’s” also razzle dazzled event goers to the Fats Tuesday event at Wonderland of the America’s. In summary, all his events were huge hits.

In 2012, the established, acknowledged professional chef was called upon to provide his input at the St. Philip’s College committee meetings as an advisor to help them keep their curriculum up to date in regard to their teachings to culinary, pastry and restaurant students.

The rise of this formidable chef was surprisingly astonishing. Was it because of his exceptional cooking skills and exotic, creative dishes or was it due to his endearing personality?

Waldo attributes his rise to fame to persistence and most important to God, who heard and answered his prayers.

Most people agree that he is todo corazón, he’s all heart and that has made him highly respected member of our community. A classic example of what he is doing for others is Chef Waldo’s Wheel Chair Foundation through which this Good Samaritan’s co-president, Josie, and James Holtzclaw formed with the main purpose of taking care of children and others with disabilities by specifically distributing wheel chairs obtained through private funding sources and donations, to those in need at no cost.

“The Bible says, ‘give and you shall receive.’ I’m a Christian, so I have a lot of faith and with a good woman and son by your side, how could I not be blessed,” the extremely, generous 52-year-old restaurateur said.

“I give back to the community because I simply like to help people and I love to do everything I can for a human being; and if you give, they’ll love you back.

Now that you have met the man behind the taste, this writer will introduce you to his craft and the culinary creativity that has made him a star, that thanks to a slew of glowing rave reviews by top-notch, tough as nails, highly opinionated food critics, is fast becoming legendary.

When it comes to catering special events, ceviche is at the top of his menu and Waldo makes this dish by placing shrimp and fish into an artfully crafted citrus marinade and it isn’t long before the acid in the juice begins to ‘cook’ the fresh chunks of fish, scallops, shrimp and more. After you take a bite of this zingy creation, you will never want to eat any other version again.

CevicheComposite-Reduced

Incidentally, the ceviche is served with a small glass of the marinating leche de tigre (tiger’s milk) juice, which is reputed to act as an aphrodisiac.

Other goodies in the salad section include saipicon de pollo. The main course on the carving station is a choice of pork, chicken rotisserie; yucca cooked two different ways, tostones and maduros.

BuffetComposite-Reduced

The hot station may features parmesan risotto, tomato basic risotto, paella Valenciana, fresh Napoleon vegetables plus homemade chicken and pork tamales wrapped in green banana leaves.

To quench the thirst and make the food go down smoothly, Chef Waldo prepares his famous homemade orange, pineapple and peach iced tea.

Waldo’s patrons cannot help but sate themselves followed by taking care of their sweet tooth with a vast array of fresh fruits that one can dip in a cascading flow of chocolate. Then there’s his popular tembleque and crema voltiada, which looks like, but is the opposite of flan.

ChefWaldo-Buffet-Composite-Reduced

 

As for what is featured in El Ceviche de Waldito’s restaurant, the ceviche and other delectable native gastronomical delicacies such as the papa a la Huacaina and picante de mariscos — a slightly spicy blend of sautéed seafood from crab, shrimp, octopus, calamari, tilapia and mussels — are not a buffet item, but are a part of the Peruvian menu, which Waldo is ready to prepare at a moment’s notice.

The papa de Hacaina rocks and some food critics have asked for bread to scoop and sop up the sauces because as they say, “It’s that good.”

MenuItems-Composite

Edmund Tijerina of the San Antonio Express-News wrote: There are so many versions and slight variations when it comes to making lomo saltado (stir-fried beef strips with onion and peppers tossed with French fries) that it’s worth trying several to get a sense of which version you prefer. All the more reason for trying more Peruvian cuisine and Chef Waldo serves as an excellent guide.”

The member of SA’s Club Social y Cultural Peruano is so enamored with cooking that he loves sharing the multifaceted cooking methods of his native country as much as he enjoys cooking those incredible dishes.

The fabulous multiple choice buffet, at a reasonable $6.99 is within anyone’s budget; and it includes a choice of pernil (roast pork),  chicken, soup and salad plus a choice of white rice or the classic Puerto Rican/Cuban arroz con gandules, habichuelas guisadas (black beans), tostones (mashed and fried plantains), sweet plantains, hibiscus tea and dessert.

Buffet-2-Reduced

So to taste wonderful international flavors without traveling to the mountains of Perú, go to Waldito’s where you will get twice the quantity of other restaurants, but at half the price.

In the print medium, food reviews on Waldo’s savory, mouth-watering dishes that include photographs that make a person drool, have been featured in Flavor (San Antonio’s Ultimate Food Lover’s Guide) and San Antonio and Austin’s Wedding Guide Magazine. Waldo would also like to thank Richard Teitz at SA Current magazine, Amanda Lozano at La Prensa, Vladmir Ramírez at El Mundo de Austin and Chris Vásquez at The Helotes Echo to name just a few other publications.

ChefWaldo-TVinterview-Reduced

No wonder this culinary star received a Medal for his selection as Chef of the Year at this year’s Alberto Alegre Awards, which were sponsored by Radio Digital 104.1 FM and in demand for television interviews.

Certificates, restaurant reviews and other accolades wallpaper two sides of his restaurant, so come out and find out what all the fuss is about and meet the showman chef whose backstage is the kitchen and his stage is behind the buffet bar or serving lots of hugs and banter on the floor

El Ceviche de Waldito is located outside Loop 410 and one block north of the CD Exchange at 5526 Evers Road.

WalditosCevicheRest-Reduced-150

 

Duck Dynasty‘s Phil Robertson Says Being Gay Is Illogical

 

News/

Duck Dynasty‘s Phil Robertson Says Being Gay Is Illogical: A Vagina Is More Desirable Than a Man’s Anus

by Zach Johnson

Duck DynastyGQ

As a straight man, Duck Dynasty‘s Phil Robertson doesn’t understand what it means to be gay.

In the January 2014 issue of GQ, the A&E reality star shares his views on homosexuality and opens up about his conservative, Louisiana-based family, and their strong Christian faith.

“We’re Bible-thumpers who just happened to end up on television,” he says of his family’s meteoric rise to fame, which has landed them multiple tabloid covers and a spot on Barbara WaltersMost Fascinating People of 2013 list. “You put in your article that the Robertson family really believes strongly that if the human race loved each other and they loved God, we would just be better off. We ought to just be repentant, turn to God, and let’s get on with it, and everything will turn around.”

One thing isn’t likely to turn around, however, is the duck hunter’s views on modern immorality. “Everything is blurred on what’s right and what’s wrong,” Phil says. “Sin becomes fine.”

“Start with homosexual behavior and just morph out from there. Bestiality, sleeping around with this woman and that woman and that woman and those men,” he tells the magazine. Paraphrasing Corinthians, he says, “Don’t be deceived. Neither the adulterers, the idolaters, the male prostitutes, the homosexual offenders, the greedy, the drunkards, the slanderers, the swindlers—they won’t inherit the kingdom of God. Don’t deceive yourself. It’s not right.”

Phil continues, “It seems like, to me, a vagina—as a man—would be more desirable than a man’s anus. That’s just me. I’m just thinking: There’s more there! She’s got more to offer. I mean, come on, dudes! You know what I’m saying? But hey, sin: It’s not logical, my man. It’s just not logical.”

NEWS: Duck Dynasty stars want “sin control”

Jep Robertson doesn’t explicitly tell GQ that he agrees with his father’s sentiments, but it seems likely that he does. “We’re not quite as outspoken as my dad, but I’m definitely in line,” he says of his backwater family. “If somebody asks, I tell ’em what the Bible says.”

Phil, 67, later says that he’s not too concerned with how other people are living.

“We never, ever judge someone on who’s going to heaven, hell. That’s the Almighty’s job. We just love ’em, give ’em the good news about Jesus—whether they’re homosexuals, drunks, terrorists. We let God sort ’em out later, you see what I’m saying?”

NEWS: Duck Dynasty‘s Sadie and John Luke make homecoming court

Phil also predicts Duck Dynasty will be off the air in three to five years. He’s grateful to have been able to share his family’s views with more than 14 million viewers each week.

“For the sake of the Gospel, it was worth it,” he says of doing the reality show. “All you have to do is look at any society where there is no Jesus. I’ll give you four: Nazis, no Jesus. Look at their record. Uh, Shintos? They started this thing in Pearl Harbor. Any Jesus among them? None. Communists? None. Islamists? Zero. That’s 80 years of ideologies that have popped up where no Jesus was allowed among those four groups. Just look at the records as far as murder goes among those four groups.”

(As GQ notes, Phil ignores centuries of war, bloodshed and human enslavement committed in the name of Christ.)

NEWS: How much money does the Duck Dynasty cast make?

Phil—who says he misses the “old days”—believes all sinners are capable of finding salvation.

“If you simply put your faith in Jesus coming down in flesh, through a human being, God becoming flesh living on the earth, dying on the cross for the sins of the world, being buried, and being raised from the dead—yours and mine and everybody else’s problems will be solved,” he says.

ENEWS

THE ULTIMATE FREEDOM

 

UltraSIG (3)

THE ULTIMATE FREEDOM

                                  By: Tess DeFlori

 Opening for bands such as, The Sex Pistols, Alvin Lee, Pat Travers, Blackfoot, Legs Diamond and other major rock groups, ULTRA is a home grown hard hitting classic rock band from San Antonio, Texas. Mixing southern blues, psychedelic rock and pro-metal, the band ULTRA rocked fans and friends on Friday night October 25, at one of San Antonio’s best known venues who hold on to the Armadillo World Headquarters tradition of promoting and featuring the best local talent.

Well-known, ULTRA had its beginnings with “Homer”, who was made up of some of San Antonio’s finest musicians. They continue to amaze audiences and players alike after 30 plus years. They are part of the Texas musical elite that found success as musicians, recording engineers and writers. Being a success in the industry even for a short time is difficult. To pass into legend status, is rare.  In the 70’s when rock n roll was still exploding, they, as many bands do, went through changes.  When Ultra’s line up and signature style evolved to its final incarnation a rich music heritage was born.

ULTRA, did not want to be known as a “cover band”, so they sought after management services that would maximize their opportunities to establish a national following. At that time, concert promoter Jack Orbin of Stone City Attractions was the “Go to guy”. Stone City had UlTRA exclusively as the opening act for many of the era’s most popular bands. Actually, Jack continues to promote! He re-united with UlTRA when he introduced them at the concert Friday night.

Between 1975 through 1978 ULTRA released one 5 track EP and recorded several demo tracks, which were never made public. Being an opening band can sometimes be a stepping-stone to stardom but this was not the case for these musicians. The band was never under contract and their roadies were receiving more pay than the band. To make matter worse, Disco had climbed to the forefront. The band members needed to get on with life, marrying, having children and earning a living. By 1978, the band had finally had enough and they decided to disband.

In 2000, Monster records acquired their demo album and contacted them. They re-mixed and put out a new album, which did great in Europe, China and in the Latin countries. Scott said that when visiting China, he found that they had hijacked their songs. Curiously, a song that was a foreign style to the band, “Hot and Cold”, was the most downloaded song for ring tones! The band has yet to see residuals on those downloaded songs!

During my interview with Scott Stephens, the Bass player, he said that in 2011, they received The Texas Legacy Music Award. I was present for this event and they sounded as if they had never stopped playing. Scott gathered the band members; they practiced and played at a local club before their induction. Scott said they were surprised when the club owner said the venue sold out and that the night would be standing room only. They felt prepared at last to perform in front of the two-thousand people, which took place at the Legacy Music Awards.  This ceremony took place at a local venue in San Antonio and they played with The Bubble Puppy as well as other inductees on that night.

In writing this article, I decided to go to a friend to get more information about this band. Gary Hull a local stand out 70’s musician with the band “Thumb” and an author, who is currently working on his second book, provided me with some further insight on this great band. Gary said that he first saw Galen Niles, guitar player of ULTRA, at the Jewish community center. If you are a San Antonian you know that back then the center was located on a different side of town. Gary was 14 years old at that time!  He said that the first song they played was a spot on version of the current top ten Led Zepplin hit “Communication Breakdown”. It was immediately obvious to Gary that he would need about 100 years of practice and some faster fingers to come close to Galen. Many players in town shared his same sentiment of Galen’s outstanding guitar playing. Even in the early 70’s, Galens fret work, and tonal command was daunting. He was to all the rest of the guitars players in town, their idol. Gary said that not much has changed where Ultra is concerned. Gary talked about how Ultra’s band members set the bar high for other musicians.

As the current line up demonstrates, Galen always attracted the best of the best to compliment his guitar work. Since the 70’s and currently, the ULTRA line-up consists of Scott Stephens (Bass), Galen Niles (Guitar), Larry McGuffin (Guitar) and Tom Schleuning (Drummer). These musicians have played together so long, they could change instruments and I doubt anyone could tell.

Getting back to Friday night October 25, Ultra was one of the co headliners with Bubble Puppy and The Krayolas. Ultra remains a local favorite. Tonight they brought the house down with Don Evans comic interludes and perfect vocal timing. This time we did not see Don ducked taped to a dolly and rolled on stage nor did we see him in a kimono…Too much to explain here, you just had to have been there. As usual, Galen delivered as promised. Larry is always a perfect compliment to Galen’s guitar work. The bottom end being the base and drums, made it possible for the rest of the members to soar on their musical selections for the evening.

As a rule, ULTRA is one of the only remaining San Antonio based rock bands that play all original material. Most of the audience can sing right along with the band. Just watch the audience at a concert and you will see their heads bob back and forth in perfect time with each tune. Ultra songs can be downloaded on I Tunes; CD Baby; and Sonic Bids. Take a listen back to the days of good old rock n roll!

For information about the band ULTRA, go to: www.ultra-rocks.com . They also have a facebook page. For booking contact scott@ultra-rocks.com .

Drop me a line about the article @ justforpost@hotmail.com

Ultra

Alamo City Comic Con 2013

Story by David A. De La Rosa

Pictures by Joseph Martinez

Alamo City Comic Con 2013

The inaugural Alamo City Comic Con which ran from October 25th – 27th at the Henry B. Gonzales convention center was a big success. This event provided great family entertainment, and gave convention goers an opportunity to dress up as there favorite superhero/villain or favorite TV/film character. This was also a great place for the fan boy to go get that hard to find comic book or collectible. Artwork was being sold there at very affordable prices, from comic book legends to local artists all were represented there. Most people who attended wanted to meet a special guest celebrity to take a photo with them or get an autograph. When I attended this event I wanted to see and do all of these things.

One of the greatest things about an event such as this is that people have the opportunity and are encouraged to dress up in costume. There were hundreds of people who attended the con dressed up in costumes ranging from the absurd to the brilliant, from the homemade to the store bought. This event also shows that we are all hams at heart everyone who wore a costume without hesitation would pose for a photograph if asked nicely. In my opinion the most abundant costume worn at the show was the Harlequin. There was also a good amount of women dressed up as Poison Ivy also was a good contingent of X-men (Mystique, Beast, Storm, and Rogue) represented there. Beyond the dressed up convention goers there were a few fan clubs represented there dressed up to help recruit new members (Ghostbusters, Star Wars, Dr. Who fan clubs).

I attended this event Saturday and Sunday. I didn’t have much of an opportunity to look or shop around for comics Saturday, but I made up for that on Sunday. There were many vendors selling comics, action figures, and limited edition porcelain figurines. I bought a good amount of dollar comics that plugged many holes in my collection. While I went from vendor to vendor looking through their inventories I overheard several of them say that they were taken by surprise by the huge turnout for this convention. When I heard these statements made over and over again it made me feel the success of this event was assured.

There were many artists at the convention selling original works or prints all at very affordable prices. The week prior to the event there was a three part comic book documentary on PBS called Superheroes: A Never-Ending Battle, this program showed the evolution of comic books from the golden age to the present. One of the featured men in the documentary was the great artist Neal Adams. Mr. Adams was there at the convention signing prints and drawing sketches for a small fee. I bought a print that Mr. Adams signed that I’ll treasure forever. There were local artists represented at the convention like Mr. Eric Pinto ( www.ArtofEricPinto.com ) who was selling art prints there.

The convention also had its share of big name special guests which ranged from TV personalities from the past and present, film stars, and old school wrestlers. In my opinion the main headliners there signing autographs were TV’s Batman Adam West and Burt Ward. Also Danny Trejo Who plays the anti hero Machete in that film franchise. Lord Of The Rings fans Sean Astin (rudy) was there. Other fan favorites included current cast members of the popular TV show The Walking Dead (Lauren Cohan, Addy Miller, Kylie Szymanski, and Travis Love). Myself I’m a huge Star Wars fan so when I heard Drath Maul Mr. Ray Park, and Mr. Peter Mayhew (the Wookie himself Chewbacca). Mr. Dirk Benedict was there some of you might remember him as the original Starbuck from Battlestar Galactica. Wrestling fans got to meet such favorites, Kevin Nash, Scott Steiner, and Buff Bagwell to name a few. Famous vehicles from TV and film that convention goers could view such as the Batman Begins Tumbler, the A-Team van, the DeLorean from Back To The Future, and Ecto-1 from The Ghostbusters.

There was a costume contest that had everybody clapping. It was great fun watching the people in the audience reaction to the costumes as they walked in front of the stage. Smiles and chuckling was in abundance.

The inaugural Alamo City Comic Con was in my opinion a great success. It had everything you would come to expect from a premier convention. The reasonable admission prices and VIP passes are posted on www.alamocitycomiccon.com the event has come and gone but you can gauge how the prices will be for next year’s convention. This cultural event and its scope has been what South Central Texas has been lacking. The potential for this event to grow in the coming years and become a major tourist draw has to make local businesses in the area very happy.  I have read from the Alamo City Comic Con Facebook page that next year’s con will have more space, and with that I hope more vendors with more special guests. I’ll return next year hoping the organizers of this event can top this one.

Story  David A. De La Rosa

River City Attraction

Comic Con: Special Guest Danny Trejo

Story by David A. De La Rosa

Photos by: Joseph Martinez

Alamo City Comic Con: Special Guest Danny Trejo

The inaugural Alamo City Comic Con has come and went; it was set up as a premier comic book convention. The four things people look forward to in a typical convention are comic book collectibles, artwork, dressing up in costume, and meeting celebrities.  The Alamo City Comic Con did not disappoint in any of those aforementioned items.

Myself I wanted to see the actor Danny Trejo; for those of you who don’t know who he is let me tell you. Danny has had a long career as a character actor playing bad guys in both TV and film, and lately has attained cult hero status as the Machete in that film franchise.  There were several ways to see and meet this celebrity either with a VIP pass, organized autograph signing, Q&A panel, or a lucky sighting in the halls.  I went to see him at the Q&A panel which was free for convention goers, in the Lila Cockerell Theathre. The Lower level of theatre was almost filled to capacity with the two main isles set up with microphones for the audience to lineup and ask Mr. Trejo questions.

The Q&A session lasted 45 minutes to an hour in which the audience asked Mr. Trejo questions about his life, career, or just wanted to state their admiration for Mr. Trejo’s work. As for Mr. Trejo he could not have been cooler he answered every question fully with down to earth wit and humor. I liked that about Mr. Trejo because you could tell he was happy to be there with his fans.  I’ve been to other conventions in which the celebrity guests (not mentioning any names) really made you feel that they didn’t want to be there, with their tone answering questions, or demeanor.  

 

Here are a few questions asked of   Mr. Trejo and his responses.

Q: Did you have any beef with any characters on the set?

A: Oh no god no I had a sword fight with uh Mel Gibson, and so when Robert yelled action I threw my sword down and Robert said what’s wrong. I said I’m not fighting William Wallace are you crazy he freed Scotland.

Q: Do you have a preference to play the bad guy?

A: Gimme what you got I don’t care man you got a good script I’ll be a good guy, you got a good script I’ll be a tree. It’s like a lot of people take this acting like really really serious you know but it’s I’m blessed it’s a great job but it’s still a job. You know I’m like a house painter and a house painter doesn’t really care what house he paints just as long as he gets paid. You know what I mean so somebody offers me a job it goes through my agent we get 20 scripts a week so they read’em and they see what fits me you know what is mean in a sense so ok let’s do this one. I’d do them all if I could.

Q:  How old were you when you got your tattoo on your chest, that Charra?

A:  God I got that, I’d hate to say it I got that in 1965. And uh and I was in prison and that was with a needle and thread. And me and a guy named Harry “Super Jew” Ross we did the outline in San Quentin and then I got kicked out of San Quentin.  They sent me to Folsom, and Harry said don’t let anybody touch it, it’s my first tattoo. So he said I’ll be in Folsom, so in about 5 months later he showed up in Folsom and he did a little more and then I got sent to Soledad and uh and he was almost done he said let me finish it so then 8 months later he showed up in Soledad he finished it so it was about I don’t know 2 years and uh 3 penitentiaries. I got to tell you this was his first tattoo so he hated it because he became a real good shader and fine line and some of you tattoo artists will know what I’m talking about. He became a great tattoo artist so he hated this tattoo cause it made him so famous. Don’t show it to anybody. Shut up! (Danny lifted his shirt and exposed his tattoo to great applause) Harry just passed away but his legacy is he put the tattoo on Danny Trejo.

The whole panel session was great and before people entered the theatre everyone received a ticket. At the end of the Q&A session Mr. Trejo was asked to pick a ticket out of a bowl to choose a winner of a special prize which was a limited edition figure of Machete, sponsored by Sideshow Collectibles. Mr. Trejo graciously signed the prize and took pictures with the lucky winner. For myself I thought this panel session was the highlight in my comic con experience. A note to any organizers of this event that might read this article do yourself a favor and invite Mr. Trejo back for next year’s comic con.

River City Attractions

 

33rd Annual Tejano Music Awards Winners

Saturday 10-19-2013 @ 11:45 P.M.

Congratulations to the WINNERS of the 33rd Annual Tejano Music Awards

Song of Year/Artist/Group

Mi Mundo Se Acabo – Siggno

 

Male Vocalist of the Year

Ricky Valenz

 

Female Vocalist of the Year

Elida Reyna

 

Entertainer of the Year

Jesse Turner

 

Album of the Year – Tejano

Contigo Descubri – Elida Reyna y Avante

 

Album of the Year – Conjunto

Back on Track – Los Hermanos Farias

 

Album of the Year – Norteño

El Mundo Se Acabo – Siggno

 

Album of the Year – Gospel

Una Simple Oracion – Javier Galvan

 

Vocal Duo of the Year

Ricky Valenz with Lupe Moreno – Por El Amor De Una Mujer

 

Best New Artist – Male

Gabriel Zavala

 

Best New Artist – Female

Cacy Savala

 

Best New Artist – Group

La Calma

 

Lifetime Achievement Award

Carlos Guzman

Paulino Bernal

33rd Annual Tejano Music Awards

Top Five Nominees

This year’s ceremonies set for October 19, 2013 at the Lila Cockrell Theatre

San Antonio, TX (10-11-2013) Texas Talent Musicians Association (TTMA), producers of the 33rd Annual Tejano Music Awards Show, has named the top contenders for awards in 13 categories at this year’s ceremonies, set for Saturday, October 19, 2013 at the historic Lila Cockrell Theatre.

 

Nominees include fan favorites Jay Perez, Shelly Lares, Michael Salgado, Ruben Ramos, AJ Castillo, David Lee Garza y Los Musicales, David Marez, Solido, Ricardo Castillon, Linda Escobar, Los Hermanos Farias, Los Garcias Brother, Texmaniacs, Grupo Siggno and Elida Reyna. While Reyna, named in five categories, leads with the most nominations, vocalist/accordionist Jesse Turner of Grupo Siggno, comes close with recognition in four categories; two with Grupo Siggno and two for his individual efforts. Two new categories added to the awards slate is best album Norteno and Gospel showcasing the diversity of subgenres of Tejano music. 

 

Special Lifetime Achievement Award honorees include Paulino Bernal and Carlos Guzman. Considered musical trendsetters of the 20th Century, both gentlemen played a major role within the Conjunto and Tejano humble beginnings and success.

 

Incredible  live performances are planned at the 33rd Annual Tejano Music Awards, including: Grupo Siggno, Jay Perez, Elida Reyna, Michael Salgado, Stefani Montiel, Jimmy Gonzalez y Grupo Mazz, Ricky Valenz,Cacy Savala, Gary Hobbs, Javier Galvan, Ram Herrera, Zamorales, Joe Vic Reyna y Los Kumbacheros, Saraly y La Promesa, La Conquista, Ruido Anejo,Tierra Tejana, Los Bad Apples, Monica Castro, Gabriel, Lety Guval, Zavala and a special performance by Sebastien De La Cruz, known as “El Charro de Oro” and Jose Luis Davila  with other surprises.

 

A Red Carpet Gala will precede the awards show where fans and media can greet the artists upon their arrival for Tejano music’s biggest night of the year, confirmed to walk the carpet Stephanie Lynn, DJ Kane, Ricky Rick and many more.

 

For tickets to the 2013 Tejano Music Awards Show visits ticketmaster.com.  Prices range from $25 to $100 for VIP seating. For the latest updates and announcements on the 33rd Annual Tejano Music Awards check the official TMA website at: TejanoMusicAwards.com.

 

 

WHO:      Texas Talent Musicians Association (TTMA), producers of the Tejano Music Awards

 

WHAT:    33rd Annual Tejano Music Awards – honoring and recognizing the achievements of Tejano Music artists

 

WHERE:  Lila Cockrell Theatre; 200 E. Market; San Antonio, Texas 78205

 

 WHEN:    Saturday, October 19, 2013; Red Carpet begins @ 5:15 to 6:15pm; Show starts @ 7pm

Texas Talent Musicians Association is a non-profit 501 (c) 3 organization whose purpose is to promote professional excellence; a better understanding and greater appreciation for Tejano music; and to provide a public forum for songwriters, performers and musicians in order to recognize their artistic efforts and achievements through the annual Tejano Music Awards and related events. Texas Talent Musicians Association is based in San Antonio, Texas: “The Tejano Music Capital Of The World.”®

Top 5 Nominees for this year’s 33rd Annual Tejano Music Awards are…….

 

Song of the Year

Bailamos y Platicamos – Jimmy Gonzalez y Mazz
Como Amar – Ricky Valenz
Dejate Amar – Elida Reyna
Mi Mundo Se Acabo – Siggno
No Vale La Pena – Ricardo Castillon y La Diferenzia

Male Vocalist of the Year

Jay Perez
Jesse Turner
Ram Herrera
Ricardo Castillon
Ricky Valenz

Female Vocalist of the Year

Elida Reyna
Linda Escobar
Monica Castro
Shelly Lares
Stefani Montiel

Entertainer of the Year

AJ Castillo
Elida Reyna
Jesse Turner
Shelly Lares
Stefani Montiel

Album of the Year – Tejano

All for You – Ricardo Castillon y La Diferenzia
Contigo Descubri – Elida Reyna y Avante
New Horizons – Jay Perez
Voz De Oro – David Marez
Y Ahora Aqui – David Lee Garza y Los Musicales

Album of the Year – Conjunto

2012 – Los Fantasmas del Valle
Ando Que Me Lleva – Boni Mauricio y Los Maximos
Back on Track – Los Hermanos Farias
Cuando Yo Te Conoci – Los Garcia Brothers
Texas Towns & Tex-Mex Sounds – Los Texmaniacs

Album of the Year – Norteño

Buscando Amor – Michael Salgado
El Mundo Se Acabo – Siggno
Mas Solido Mas Norteno – Solido

Album of the Year – Gospel

A Dios La Honra – Trino Paiz
Bob Gallarza Presents – Jorge David Marroquin – Caminos Del Alma
Bob Gallarza Presents Gabriel – Raices del Cruzando Fronteras – David Allen
Una Simple Oracion – Javier Galvan

Vocal Duo of the Year

David Farias with Joe Farias – Los Albaniles
Elida Reyna with Jose Zamora – Contigo Descubri
Hugo Guerrero with Ruben Ramos – Subele
Jimmy Gonzalez with Margarita – Bailamos y Platicamos
Ricky Valenz with Lupe Moreno – Por El Amor De Una Mujer

Best New Artist – Male

Angel Gonzales – Angel y Vimana
Braulio Rodriguez – Braulio y Fuzzion
Gabriel Zavala
Joe Vic – Joe Vic Reyna y Los Kumbacheros
Juaquin Cura

Best New Artist – Female

Audi Castillon Portales – Audi Y Zentimiento
Cacy Savala
Crystal Torres
Ilyssa Saenz
Tejano RoZe – Tejano RoZe y La Nueva Sensacion

Best New Artist – Group

A.S.G.
Grupo Maldad
La Calma
Tejano Funk
Tejano Sound Band

Texas Talent Musicians Association is a non-profit 501 (c) 3 organization whose purpose is to promote professional excellence; a better understanding and greater appreciation for Tejano music; and to provide a public forum for songwriters, performers and musicians in order to recognize their artistic efforts and achievements through the annual Tejano Music Awards and related events. Texas Talent Musicians Association is based in San Antonio, Texas: “The Tejano Music Capital Of The World.”®

 

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