The First (and Maybe the Last) Eureka Springs, AR Aqua Comedy Show

Chamber Announces

“The First (and Maybe the Last) Eureka Springs

Aqua Comedy Show”

The Greater Eureka Springs Chamber of Commerce announced a benefit show on Tuesday, April 28, 2009 featuring stand-up comedy, improvisation and music from local talent.

“By now, everyone is suffering from cabin fever, especially with the stress of the ice storm, so we thought we would plan an event for locals to help lighten the mood going in to the tourist season,” explained Chamber Vice-President Lisa Liggett. “The proceeds of the night’s event will be used to supplement the Economic Development budget of the Chamber.”

The comedy and music event will be held at the Ozark Mountain Hoe Down beginning at 7:00 p.m. The Ozark Mountain Hoe Down has donated the space for the performance. Likewise, performers during the evening are also donating their time and talents.

When asked about the “Aqua” tag in the title of the event, Liggett revealed that the evening would carry a PG-13 rating and may not be entirely suitable for families with small children. “No vulgar language, or other inappropriate behavior; it won’t be a “blue” comedy show, just slightly blue-hued, you know – aqua.”

“You tend to kid the ones you love, so we’ll be lampooning locals, tourists and others who regularly touch our lives in an effort to paste some grins on our hard working audience,” offered Visitor Information Center Manager Gloria Stevens.

Tickets for the evening are $10 per person and are available at the Chamber of Commerce.

“We think everyone needs a little laughter before going in to the season full throttle. All we hear from the media is gloom and doom. We hope to have a great turnout Tuesday evening,” concluded Stevens.

What: The First (and Maybe the Last) Eureka Springs Aqua Comedy Show

Who: Local comedians and performers including Virtual Insanity Players (the VIP’s) improv comedy troupe

When: Tuesday, April 28, 2009 7:00 p.m.

Where: The Ozark Mountain Hoe Down

How Much: $10 per person

Why: To lighten the mood and to replenish the Chamber budget for

Economic Development

Eureka Springs, Pine Mountain Theater Celebrates 35th year!

PINE MOUNTAIN THEATER BEGINS 35TH FUNTASTIC SEASON FRIDAY MARCH 6TH

The Pine Mountain Theater, Eureka Springs’ longest running family show will kick off a season long celebration honoring their 35th birthday Friday March 6th at 8:00 p.m. The Good News Quartet gospel music pre-show begins at 7:30 p.m. Mike and Dale Bishop, the Ozarks favorite couple headline the show along with comedian Scott Dewbre, often referred to as “the funniest guy in town”. Also appearing is the versatile and energetic Pine Mountain Band. Band members include band leader Kenneth “Buster Sharp”, John Walter Morrison, Acra Turner and newcomer Gary Welch, who toured with Danny Davis and the Nashville Brass for over 17 years and has performed with various other artists and at several venues in Branson, Missouri.

This years show features new country hits, bluegrass music, classic country songs and nostalgic and classic rock n’ roll favorites. There’s always some great blues tunes performed and gospel and patriotic music are staples in every show at the theater. Some highlights include an expanded version of last season’s popular History of Dance segment, a tribute to great piano artists, and Mike’s traditional “Ragged Ol’ Flag”. Some time during the show will be dedicated to songs and artists popular during the mid seventies when the Pine Mountain theater originated. “We’re excited about the 2009 show and the 35th season celebration” stated show producer Mike Bishop. The Pine Mountain show has the distinction of being Arkansas’ 1st and most attended family show and has become a “must see” attraction for vacationers from all over the United States visiting Eureka Springs.

Shows will be performed Friday and Saturday nights through March 21st, then nightly except Sunday beginning March 23rd. Ticket office opens at 10:00 a.m. all show days. Adult admission is $19.95 plus tax and children under 12 are admitted free. Everyone enjoys “all you can eat” free popcorn. The lobby gift shop offers a large variety of gifts and souvenirs and is open daily. For a limited time season passes are on sale for only $29.95 (regularly $39.95). For reservations or more information call toll free 1-877-253-9156 or visit our web site at www.pinemountainjamboree.com.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS – February 26th - March 5th

The Eureka Springs Garden Club is encouraging all homeowners and businesses to plan for spring planting and to think about entering the Garden’s Club’s 2009 “Garden of the Season” competitions. The 2009 garden themes are: “Pathways" (spring), "Water Features" (summer), and "Harvest" (fall). For more information and/or to nominate your own garden or others, please call Garden Club Coordinator, Cathy Lamb (253-1096).

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Thursday, February 26

Every Thursday at 9:30 am: Tai Chi at Fire Om Earth Studios.479-363-9402

Thursday, February 26

Eureka Live: Open Mic Jam Session (7PM)

Lumberyard Bar & Grill: Happy Hour with Mary Bo (3-7PM)

Rowdy Beaver - Happy Hour (3-6PM)

Squid and Whale Pub: Open Mic Musical Smack-Down with Truckstop Hookers & DJ Havok

Friday, February 27 thru Monday March 2

Drum Building Workshop. 10AM-4PM $260 includes materials & instruction. Create your own Medicine Drum. Registration required. Fire Om Earth Studio. 872 Mill Hollow Road, Eureka Springs. www.fireomearth.com. (479) 363-9402.

Friday, February 27

Chelsea’s: Big Smith

Eureka Live: Underground Mafia (Downstairs) (8PM)

Grand Central Hotel Grand Taverne –Arkansas Red (Jazz Guitar)(6-9PM)

Henri’s Just One More: Karaoke

Jack’s Place: Karaoke

Lumberyard Bar & Grill: Happy Hour with Mary Bo (3-7PM)

New Delhi Café: Blind Boy White & The Liberators

Pied Piper Cathouse Lounge: John Elliot & Johan Wagner (8-midnite)

Rowdy Beaver: Happy Hour (3-7PM) – South 14 (Bluegrass) 7:30PM

Squid and Whale Pub: Mountain Sprout (9PM)

Shawbee’s Big Dawg Saloon: Karaoke & Dance with The Big Dawg

Saturday, February 28

Carroll County Fresh! Annual meeting. 8AM-Noon. Berryville Community Center. For details: (www.carrollcountyfresh.org) or call 479-244-5431.

Saturday, February 28.

Every Saturday at 9:30 am: Tai Chi at Fire Om Earth Studios.479-363-9402

Saturday, February 28

Chelsea’s: Gaylords (9PM)

Eureka Live: Underground Mafia (Downstairs) 10PM.

Grand Central Hotel Grand Taverne: Jerry Yester-Grand piano dinner music (6:30-9:30PM)

Henri’s Just One More: Karaoke

Jack’s Place: Karaoke

Mud Street Café: Travis Graham & Friends

New Delhi Café: Mountain Sprout (6:30PM)

Pied Piper Cathouse Lounge: John Elliot & Johan Wagner (8PM-Midnite)

Rowdy Beaver: Pope County Bootleggers (7:30PM)

Shawbee’s Big Dawg Saloon: Karaoke & Dance with the Big Dawg

Squid and Whale Pub: Toast To The Blind (Funk Rock & Blues) 8PM

Wagon Wheel Tavern: Rev. Coy Dog (6PM-Closing)

Sunday, March 1

Eureka House Concert featuring Mary Gauthier. Unitarian Church. 17 Elk St. Doors Open at 7pm. Music at 7:30pm. (www.eurekahouseconcerts.com).

Sunday March 1

Eureka Springs Gallery Association Showcase. Downtown-Spring Street. FREE. View the creations of 970 artists & craftsmen. www.artofeureka.com

Sunday, March 1

Eureka Live: Live music & dancing (11AM-10PM)

New Delhi Café: Mountain Sprout (3:30PM)

Shawbee’s Big Dawg Saloon: Biker appreciation Day

Squid and Whale Pub: Local Entertainment

Monday, March 2

Eureka Springs Gallery Association Showcase. Downtown-Spring Street. FREE. View the creations of 970 artists & craftsmen. www.artofeureka.com

Monday, March 2

Chelsea’s: Ladies’ Night

Lumberyard Bar & Grill: Happy Hour with Mary Bo (3-7PM)

Marquee’s: Will Steele hosts Songwriter’s Night (7-10PM)

Rowdy Beaver: Happy Hour (3-7PM)

Squid and Whale Pub: Ladies Night

Every Monday at 5:30 pm: Bellyogachi classes at Fire Om Earth Studios. 479-363-9402.

Every Monday at 6:30 pm:. Metaphysical Society of Arkansas meets at 68 Mountain Street

Every Monday at 7:00 pm: 8-ball pool tournament in the billiards room atop the Basin Park Hotel

Tuesday, March 3

Eureka Springs Gallery Association Showcase. Downtown-Spring Street. FREE. View the creations of 970 artists & craftsmen. www.artofeureka.com

Tuesday, March 3

Club of the Ozarks Celebrates 10^th Anniversary: 3PM. 107 Whispering Pines (next to the Bavarian Inn on US62W).. For details call 479-253-5665.

Tuesday, March 3

Eureka Springs Middle School “Literacy Night”. 5PM. For details: bkepford@es.k12.ar.us.

Tuesday, March 3

Chelsea’s: Open Mic

Holiday Island Elks Lodge: Charitable Bingo (6:30PM)

Lovin’ Oven Bakeria: Board Game Night (6PM)

Lumberyard Bar & Grill: Happy Hour with Mary Bo (3-7PM)

Rowdy Beaver: Happy Hour (3-7PM)

Squid and Whale Pub: Salsa Music Night

Every Tuesday at 9:30AM: Tai Chi at Fire Om Earth Studios.479-363-9402

Wednesday, March 4

Eureka Springs Gallery Association Showcase. Downtown-Spring Street. FREE. View the creations of 970 artists & craftsmen. www.artofeureka.com

Wednesday, March 4

Every Wednesday: Bellyogchi classes at Fire Om Studio Studios. 9:30AM. 479-363-9402

Wednesday, March 4

Eureka Live: Family Night

Lumberyard Bar & Grill: Happy Hour with Mary Bo (3-7PM)

New Delhi Café: Open Jam (6:30PM)

Rowdy Beaver: Happy Hour (3-7PM) Service Employees’ Night

Squid and Whale Pub: Gnarly Movie Night

LOOKING AHEAD

March-December: 2^nd Saturday Gallery Stroll begins March 7 (253-7679)

March 6-8: John Michael Talbot’s Lenten Retreat (253-7379)

March 6: Pine Mountain Theater “Opening Night” (253-9156)

March 6: Eureka Thyme: Book Signing “The Fifth Tarot” (363-9300)

March 8: Women’s Drum Class & Women’s Full Moon Drum (479-363-9402)

March 9: AARP meeting. Holiday Island Clubhouse (363-9541)

March 13: Ozark Mountain Hoe Down “Opening Night” (253-7725)

March 14: War Eagle Cavern opens for the season (479) 789-2909

March 14: 2^nd Saturday Gallery Stroll (253-7679)

March 14: Grassy Knob Firehouse “Chilli Day” (253-1094)

March 14: 27^th Annual Victorian Classic Road Race (253-5543)

March 14: Eureka Springs Historical Museum Souper Soup (253-9417)

March 14: St. Patrick’s Day Parade (479-981-9551)

March 15: Memorial Show of Beer Can & Breweriana Collectors www.arbeerclub.com

March 15: “Women Be Wise” (479-363-9402)

March 15: Wine Dinner at the Cottage Inn Restaurant (253-5282)

March 17: St. Patrick’s Day Pub Crawl (479-981-9551)

March 19: Poetluck Potluck Dinner at The Writer’s Colony (253-7444)

March 20: 13^th Annual Spring Antique Trail Show Wine & Cheese Preview

March 21: 13^th Annual Spring Antique Trail Show & Sale

March 21: Shoe Making Workshop (479-363-9402)

March 22: 13^th Annual Spring Antique Trail Show & Sale

March 22: Shoe Making Workshop (479-363-9402)

March 27: Steven Foster to address Eureka Springs Garden Club (253-2227)

March 28: 19^th Annual E.S. Kite Fest @ Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge (253-6596)

$10,000 Wedding Sweepstakes

Announce 10,000 Wedding Sweepstakes_____

(EUREKA SPRINGS, AR) –

“You bring the dress (and the rings), and we’ll do the rest,” is the motto of the Greater Eureka Springs Chamber of Commerce’s Wedding Committee Chair Melody Purdy.

Greater Eureka Springs Chamber of Commerce members who provide wedding, romance, honeymoon and anniversary services, along with other Eureka Springs businesses that collect the city’s advertising and promotion tax have teamed up once again to award one lucky couple a $10,000 Wedding through the “Romancing the Springs” Sweepstakes. The dream wedding includes everything from the location and ceremony, to the rehearsal dinner and reception.

Wedding service providers for the $10,000 wedding give away include Musical Elegance, The 1886 Crescent Hotel, the 1905 Basin Park Hotel, Rock House Plaza, Eureka Flower Shop, Reflections Photography by Ashley, The Thorncrown Chapel, Eureka Sweets, Purdy Art Company, Eureka Springs Limousine, Angel at Rose Hall Bed and Breakfast, and the Gazebo Restaurant.

“We have given one lucky couple in each of 2007 and 2008 a $10,000 dream wedding in Eureka Springs,” explains Purdy. “It is a great opportunity to showcase Eureka Springs and all of her businesses as the most spectacular wedding and honeymoon destination in the area.”

Entries for the sweepstakes began Saturday, February 14. Those wishing to enter the sweepstakes can enter online at www.romancingthesprings.com or by visiting the wedding sweepstakes information on the Chamber’s web site at www.eurekaspringschamber.com. Official rules and regulations for the sweepstakes are also posted. Sweepstake participants may submit daily entries.

The wedding give away will be advertised on several nationally prominent Internet wedding portals including Get Married.com, One Wed.com, Arkansas Bride.com, The Knot.com, with an email blast to brides registered on Wedding Solutions.com. The Eureka Springs Advertising and Promotion Commission has dedicated advertising funds to reach these highly targeted audiences.

“The early returns on the give away entries are very impressive,” commented Purdy.

In addition, prospective brides and grooms can experience a “virtual wedding show” online at the Romancing the Springs web site.

“Brides and grooms (and family) will be able to visit the web sites of many of the wedding, romance, honeymoon and anniversary service providers in Eureka Springs directly from Romancing the Springs,” commented Purdy. “With over 4,000 weddings performed in Eureka Springs yearly, we are The Wedding Capital of the South.”

The contest runs through January 1, 2010 when the sweepstakes drawing will be held. The winner will be announced after the lucky couple is notified. The sweepstakes sponsor will post information on the winner on the Romancing the Springs web site after verification.

The winning couple will report to Eureka Springs beginning Friday, November 12, 2010, where they will begin their luxurious wedding plans with the ceremony held on Saturday, November 13, 2010.

- 30-

Chamber to Share Wedding Leads with Advertisers on the “Romancing the Springs” Give-Away Web Site

The Greater Eureka Springs Chamber of Commerce announced today that it would share information on wedding leads generated by the Romancing the Springs $10,000 Dream Wedding Give-away as part of the advertising package for vendors who are listed on the web site. Brides and grooms have the opportunity to enter the sweepstakes for the wedding to be given away in January 2010 online at www.romancingthesrpings.com or the Chamber of Commerce web site at www.eurekaspringschamber.com.

According to Melody Purdy, Chair of the Chamber’s wedding Committee, a major portion of the committee’s work plan is to generate leads for the wedding businesses in the Eureka Springs area.

The leads will be emailed to advertisers weekly. These Eureka Springs businesses can then copy the leads for their marketing activities.

“We are expecting many entries and a lot of lead generation with this sweepstakes effort,” concluded Purdy.

Help Us Help You

To All “Romancing the Springs” Give-away Advertisers:

Hopefully by now, you have heard about the “Romancing the Springs” $10,000 Dream Wedding Sweepstakes that is being conducted online sponsored by the Greater Eureka Springs Chamber of Commerce and supported by the CAPC.

For full details of the sweepstakes visit www.romancingthesprings.com or visit the Chamber web site.

The main purpose of the sweepstakes is to generate wedding leads for businesses that provide wedding services or interact with wedding guests.

In order to drive traffic to the sweepstakes site and generate leads for you, the Chamber is requesting that you add a link to the Romancing the Springs web site to your own business web site. Directions and code for adding the link on your web site are found below. Many of you will have to consult with your web host to place the link on your site.

By placing the link on your web site that goes directly to the Romancing the Springs web site, we should see many more leads generated that we can share with you weekly during the sweepstakes period between now and January 2010.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS – FEBRUARY 19 - 25, 2009

EUREKA SPRINGS

COMMUNITY INFORMATION

FEBRUARY 19 - 25, 2009

For a Complete List of the 2009 “Events & Festivals”

www.eurekasprings.org

ATTENTION ALL DOG LOVERS & DOG OWNERS!! Due to health issues resulting from the ice storm, our beloved four-legged friends at the “Good Shepherd Humane Society” will not be able to participate in the “Mardi Gras” parade on Saturday – with the “KREWE OF BARKUS”. They were so very much looking forward to participating and they are hoping others will keep the “KREWE OF BARKUS” spirit alive & join in the parade. If you would like to participate, please meet at the post office at 1:00p.m. Water and treats for the dogs will be provided & all dogs must be on a leash. Please call me with any questions (253-7333). Thank you so much!! …

Donna Shepard

Thursday, February 19

Mardi Gras Hookers and Jokers Ball 7:00pm at the Inn of the Ozarks Convention Center. For more information contact Dan Ellis at 479-981-9551 or email at Dan@Ureeka.org

Thursday, February 19

Eureka Live: Open Mic Jam Session (7PM) Underground Mafia –Downstairs ( 8PM)

Lumberyard Bar & Grill: Happy Hour with Mary Bo (3-7PM)

Rowdy Beaver - Happy Hour (3-6PM)

Squid and Whale Pub: Open Mic Musical Smack-Down hosted by Rev. Coy Dog

Thursday – Sunday, February 19-22

The Cottage Inn restaurant will celebrate …“Mardi Gras with Gumbo & More ..” www.cottageinneurekasprings.com. Serving dinner Thurs.-Sun. 5-9pm. 450 W. Van Buren. 253-5282

Thursday, February 19

This evening’s POETLUCK at the Writer’s Colony has been canceled. Please call 253-7444 for information.

Every Thursday at 9:30 am: Tai Chi at Fire Om Earth Studios.479-363-9402.

Friday, February 20

Mardi Gras Coronation Costume Ball at 6:00pm at the Crescent Hotel. For more information contact Dan Ellis at 479-981-9551 or email at Dan@Ureeka.org

Friday, February 20

The Academy of Excellence 6^th Annual Chili Cook-Off & Benefit Auction. $5/person includes chili dinner, drink & dessert. Location: Best Western Inn of the Ozarks Convention Center. For information: 253-5400.

Friday, February 20

Dances of Universal Peace. 7 PM. Unitarian Universalist Church. 17 Elk Street. (253-8303).

Friday, February 20

Rowdy Beaver: Happy Hour (3-7PM) - The Ariels (8PM)

Jack’s Place: Karaoke

Henri’s Just One More: Karaoke

Squid and Whale Pub: Dirty Rat Bastards (8PM)

Shawbee’s Big Dawg Saloon: Karaoke & Dance with The Big Dawg

Grand Central Hotel Grand Taverne –Arkansas Red (Jazz Guitar)( 6-9PM)

New Delhi Café: Rachel Fields

Eureka Live: Underground Mafia (Downstairs) (8PM)

Lumberyard Bar & Grill: Happy Hour with Mary Bo (3-7PM)

Friday – Sunday, February 20-22

Radical Gospel Living II facilitated by Fr. Bob Dombrowski. For more information contact Little Portion Retreat Center at 479-253-7379 or email at retreatinfo@littleportion.org.

Saturday, February 21

Krewe of Krazo Parade at 2:00pm. For more information contact Dan Ellis at 479-981-9551 or email at Dan@Ureeka.org

Saturday, February 21

All-Girl Roller Derby! Advance tickets available at Eskate; $10 adults, children under 12 free. 120 tickets are available. For details: www.nwarollergirls.com or call 479-253-7762.

Saturday, February 21

Kostume Kontest at the Art Colony from 3:30pm to 5:30pm. For more information contact Dan Ellis at 479-981-9551 or email at Dan@Ureeka.org

Saturday, February 21

Rowdy Beaver Eureka Gras “Rowdyfest”-- Jazz with Shane from Mobile, AL (7PM)

Café Santa Fe: Eureka Gras post-parade float contest & New Orleans entertainment.

Chelsea’s: Young Musician Scholarship Fund Benefit with the Ariels, Joe Grogan & Friends (9PM)

Eureka Live: Underground Mafia (Downstairs) 10PM.

Grand Central Hotel Grand Taverne: Jerry Yester-Grand piano dinner music (6:30-9:30PM)

Henri’s Just One More: Karaoke

Jack’s Place: Karaoke

Lumberyard Bar & Grill: One Night Stand (9PM)

Mud Street Café: Mountain Sprout (6-9PM)

New Delhi Café: Live Entertainment

Pied Piper Cathouse Lounge: Pope County Bootleggers (8-llPM)

Shawbee’s Big Dawg Saloon: Karaoke & Dance with the Big Dawg

Squid and Whale Pub: Taken with Daryl Brooks (Motown R&B) (8PM)

Wagon Wheel Tavern: Rev. Coy Dog (6PM-Closing)

Every Saturday at 9:30 am: Tai Chi at Fire Om Earth Studios.479-363-9402

Sunday, February 22

FREE Jazz Music at the Basin Park Bandshell from 6:00pm to 8:00pm. For more information call 479.253.2586.

Sunday, February 22

Jazz Champagne Brunch at the Crystal Dining Room of the Crescent Hotel from 11:00am to 2:00pm. Reservations are recommended.

Sunday, February 22

Eureka Live: Live music & dancing (11AM-10PM)

New Delhi Café: Jazz & Blues with Shane, Shane, Shane (5-7PM)

Shawbee’s Big Dawg Saloon: Biker appreciation Day

Squid and Whale Pub: Local Entertainment

Monday February 23

Chelsea’s: Ladies’ Night

Lumberyard Bar & Grill: Happy Hour with Mary Bo (3-7PM)

Marquee’s: Will Steele hosts Songwriter’s Night (7-10PM)

Rowdy Beaver: Happy Hour (3-7PM)

Squid and Whale Pub: Ladies Night

Every Monday at 5:30 pm: Bellyogachi classes at Fire Om Earth Studios. 479-363-9402. Also on Wednesday at 9:30 am

Every Monday at 6:30 pm:. Metaphysical Society of Arkansas meets at 68 Mountain Street

Every Monday at 7:00 pm: 8-ball pool tournament in the billiards room atop the Basin Park Hotel

Tuesday, February 24

“Shakespeare in the Ozarks” will meet at the Carnegie Library Annex meeting room at 6:00pm. For more information, please call John Merritt at 253-4047

Tuesday, February 24

King Cake and Punch at Community First Bank Lobby. Free to the public.

Tuesday, February 24

Eureka Gras Fat Tuesday Pancake Supper –benefit for Habitat for Humanity at the Eureka Inn Gazebo Restaurant from 5-9PM.

Tuesday, February 24

Eureka Gras 2^nd Line Krazo Pub Krawl: (4PM)

Chelsea’s: Eureka Gras 2^nd Line Krazo Pub Krawl with Opal Fly

Eureka Live: Eurkea Gras 2^nd Line Krazo Pub Krawl

Henri’s Just One More: Eureka Gras 2^nd Line Krazo Pub Krawl

Holiday Island Elks Lodge: Charitable Bingo (6:30PM)

Jack’s Place: Eureka Gras 2^nd Line Krazo Pub Krawl

Lovin’ Oven Bakeria: Board Game Night (6PM)

Lumberyard Bar & Grill: Happy Hour with Mary Bo (3-7PM)

Pied Piper Cathouse Lounge: Eureka Gras 2^nd Line Krazo Pub Krawl

Rowdy Beaver: Happy Hour (3-7PM)

Squid and Whale Pub: Eureka Gras 2^nd Line Pub Krawl with “My Tea Kind”

Every Tuesday at 9:30 am: Tai Chi at Fire Om Earth Studios.479-363-9402

Wednesday, February 25

Eureka Live: Family Night

Lumberyard Bar & Grill: Happy Hour with Mary Bo (3-7PM)

New Delhi Café: Open Jam (6:30PM)

Rowdy Beaver: Happy Hour (3-7PM) Service Employees’ Night

Squid and Whale Pub: Gnarly Movie Night

LOOKING AHEAD

March 1: “Eureka House Concert” featuring Mary Gauthier (www.eurekahouseconcerts.com)

March-December: 2^nd Saturday Gallery Stroll begins March 7 (253-7679)

March 6-8: John Michael Talbot’s Lenten Retreat (253-7379)

March 6: Pine Mountain Theater “Opening Night” (253-9156)

March 7: Ozark Mountain Hoe Down “Opening Night” (253-7725)

March 8: Women’s Drum Class & Women’s Full Moon Drum (479-363-9402)

March 14: 2^nd Saturday Gallery Stroll (253-7679)

March 14: 27^th Annual Victorian Classic Road Race (253-5543)

March 14: Eureka Springs Historical Museum Souper Soup (253-9417)

March 14: St. Patrick’s Day Parade (479-981-9551)

March 15: Memorial Show of Beer Can & Breweriana Collectors www.arbeerclub.com

March 15: “Women Be Wise” (479-363-9402)

March 15: Wine Dinner at the Cottage Inn Restaurant (253-5282)

March 17: St. Patrick’s Day Pub Crawl (479-981-9551)

March 19: Poetluck Potluck Dinner at The Writer’s Colony (253-7444)

March 20: 13^th Annual Spring Antique Trail Show Wine & Cheese Preview

March 21: 13^th Annual Spring Antique Trail Show & Sale

March 21: Shoe Making Workshop (479-363-9402)

March 22: 13^th Annual Spring Antique Trail Show & Sale

March 22: Shoe Making Workshop (479-363-9402)

March 28: 19^th Annual E.S. Kite Fest @ Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge (253-6596)

Eureka springs Blues Weekend!

For Immediate Release

Sponsored by the 1905 Basin Park Hotel, the 2009 Eureka Springs Blues Weekend will feature Guitar Shorty, Hubert Sumlin & the Buddy Flett Band and Joe Louis Walker headlining evening shows in THE Auditorium May 28, 29 & 30 respectively. For acoustic guitar lovers, we have Delta Blues legend David “Honeyboy” Edwards headlining a special “Acoustic Afternoon at THE Auditorium” on Saturday, May 30th. Shows will also be held throughout the weekend in the 1905 Basin Park Hotel's Barefoot Ballroom and Ozark Room, Basin Spring Park, and at various venues around Eureka Springs.

This year’s Blues Weekend will be a fundraiser for The Blues Foundation’s Handy Artist Relief Trust and Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge. The HART fund provides assistance to musicians in need, including acute, chronic & preventive medical & dental care, as well as funeral expenses. For more information, please visit www.Blues.org. Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge is located seven miles south of Eureka Springs on Highway 23. It provides lifetime refuge to abandoned, abused, and neglected "Big Cats", with emphasis on tigers, lions, leopards, and cougars. Natural habitats have been built over the past decade to allow the "Lions, Tigers & Bears" to live in more natural surroundings. For more information, please visit www.TurpentineCreek.org.

ESBW Producer Charles “Rags” Ragsdell and his wife Lori have been supporters of both organizations for over a decade. As volunteers, they help produce the Eureka Springs Blues Weekend and several other music events. Rags is also a Charter Member of The Blues Foundation, and a member of Turpentine Creek’s Board of Directors.

Other headliners appearing in The Auditorium and the 1905 Basin Park Hotel Barefoot Ballroom include EG Kight, Moreland & Arbuckle, Mary Flower, RJ Mischo, Lee McBee & the Confessors, Deanna Bogart and John Nemeth. Also, International Blues Challenge winner JP Soars & the Red Hots and Ozarks Blues Society Blues Challenge winners Oreo Blue and Kory Montgomery & Isayah Warford will be opening acts.

Thursday evening at THE Auditorium will feature Guitar Shorty. Six-time Blues Music Award nominee Guitar Shorty started his professional career at the tender age of 16, playing for Ray Charles. He recorded his first single under the direction of Willie Dixon the next year, and went on to play with greats such as T-Bone Walker, Big Joe Turner, Little Richard and Sam Cooke. Since then, Guitar Shorty has headlined festivals around the world, and won the Contemporary Album Blues Music Award in 2007 for “We the People”.

Opening for Guitar Shorty will be International Blues Challenge winner JP Soars & the Red Hots. JP and his band bested over 100 bands in the 2009 International Blues Challenge, held by The Blues Foundation in Memphis, Tennessee. JP also won a custom Gibson guitar and a Category 5 amp for the Albert King Award for Most Promising Blues Guitarist. JP was raised in Cedarville, near Fayetteville, and looks forward to returning “home” for his first Arkansas performance.

On Friday, Grammy nominee, nine-time Blues Music Award nominee, four-time BMA winner and Blues Hall of Famer Hubert Sumlin will headline THE Auditorium. Raised in Hughes, Arkansas and after a stint in James Cotton’s band, at the age of 18 Hubert became Howlin’ Wolf’s guitarist. Sumlin’s licks are heard on hits like “Smokestack Lightnin’” and “Wang Dang Doodle”, and he has been cited by almost every major blues guitarist as one of their prime inspirations.

Sumlin has been a featured artist in Eric Clapton’s Crossroads Guitar Festivals and appeared in the films “10 Days Out”, “Lightning in a Bottle” and “Cadillac Records”. Eric Clapton and The Rolling Stone’s Keith Richard appeared on Sumlin’s “About Them Shoes”, another testament to his influence on today’s guitar greats. Hubert will be backed by The Buddy Flett Band, who also appeared in “10 Days Out”, Kenny Wayne Shepherd’s road-trip documentary.

Opening for Sumlin will be Kory Montgomery & Isayah Warford, who represented the Ozarks Blues Society in the International Blues Challenge’s Solo/Duo competition. Also appearing will be Oreo Blue, who represented the Ozarks Blues Society in the International Blues Challenge’s Band competition.

Also on Friday, BMA nominee John Nemeth and BMA winner Deanna Bogart will perform in the 1905 Basin Park Hotel’s Barefoot Ballroom. Nemeth has wowed crowds around the world with great vocals and harp playing, and simply blew away the crowd on the King Biscuit stage with Anson Funderburg & the Rockets after the passing of harp legend Sam Meyers. Deanna Bogart is one of the most musically gifted ladies on the planet. A “quadruple threat”, Deanna sings, plays piano and saxophone, and writes great songs.

Saturday afternoon at THE Auditorium features Grammy and Blues Music Award winner and two-time Blues Hall of Famer David “Honeyboy” Edwards. Honeyboy is the last of the original Mississippi Delta Blues guitarists. Unlike guitarists like Eric Clapton who say Robert Johnson influenced their music, Honeyboy actually played with Johnson! Honeyboy's life has been intertwined with almost every major blues legend, including both Robert and Tommy Johnson, Charlie Patton, Big Joe Williams, Rice "Sonny Boy Williamson" Miller, Howlin' Wolf, Peetie Wheatstraw, Sunnyland Slim, Lightnin' Hopkins, Big Walter, Little Walter, Magic Sam, and Muddy Waters! In 1942, Alan Lomax recorded Honeyboy in Clarksdale, Mississippi for the Library of Congress. Since then, Honeyboy has recorded 14 albums and has appeared on 38 compilations, and has performed at hundreds of festivals around the world. Honeyboy also appeared as himself in Walk Hard: The Dewey Cox Story.

Opening for Honeyboy are EG Kight and Mary Flower. Both ladies are multiple Blues Music Award nominees, and are known around the world for their singing and songwriting. They will also perform sets in the Basin Park Hotel Ozark Room on Friday and Saturday evenings respectively.

Saturday will feature Multiple Grammy and Blues Music Award winner Joe Louis Walker. Joe Louis has been nominated for an astounding 39 Blues Music Awards, winning three times. Joe Louis is a true powerhouse guitar virtuoso, unique singer & prolific songwriter who has toured the world throughout his career and earned himself a legion of dedicated fans around the globe. He has recorded with the likes of BB King, James Cotton, Bonnie Raitt, Taj Mahal, Huey Lewis, Branford Marsalis, Steve Cropper, Shemekia Copeland & Ike Turner, with a discography that counts 19 solo albums, 2 live DVD’s, and countless compilations and guest appearances.

Opening for Joe Louis Walker will be RJ Mischo’s Harp Meltdown, backed by Lee McBee & the Confessors. RJ has performed around the world, thrilling audiences with his mastery of the harmonica. Lee McBee is best known for his harp and vocal work with Mike Morgan and The Crawl, but shines on his own with one of the tightest bands in the Midwest, The Confessors.

Also appearing on Saturday in the Barefoot Ballroom will be Moreland & Arbuckle and BMA nominee Candye Kane. Fairly new to the festival scene, Moreland & Arbuckle’s latest CD “1861” was designated a “Pick to Click” on Bluesville. They have gained a large following with their Mississippi-style “Roots Blues” that are influenced by everyone from Little Walter to Led Zeppelin. Candye Kane has toured the world as part of RUF Records’ Blues Caravan, and is known for her outrageous costumes and high-energy shows.

Candye was scheduled to appear at last year’s Blues Weekend, but was unable to perform due to illness. Like many musicians, Candye didn’t have insurance to cover her medical bills, and the HART Fund helped pay them. We promised Candye she would get a “rain check” for this year’s Blues Weekend, and we are thrilled she is able to come and help raise money for the HART fund!

In addition to the headliner shows, there will be music in Basin Spring Park and at area clubs and restaurants.

For a complete schedule, more information or to volunteer, please visit www.EurekaSpringsBlues.com

Del Castillo in Eureka Springs, AR!

Del Castillo comes to Eureka Springs -By David Hughes

“Once Upon a Time in Mexico” is on the television screen and I’m watching intently, getting involved in all the little sub-plots that are layered throughout the movie. In the background of the action on the screen, there is music, flamenco guitar actually. The eloquence of the music is darkly romantic and dances intimately with the rough landscape in the scenes it supports. It’s an intriguing mixture.

As usual, I found myself in search of the music behind the movie. My search led me to a band that has been hard at the business of music for a little over nine years. What I found was Del Castillo. Del Castillo creates its own intriguing mixture of flamenco, rock, Latin, blues and world music, having performed live since 2001 and racking up a list of accomplishments and awards most bands work a lifetime to achieve.

Arkansas will get an opportunity to hear this incredible band in Eureka Springs on May 8 at The Auditorium. Show time will be 8:00 p.m. with an opening act kicking off at 6:45 p.m.

Del Castillo came together in 2000 as the result of brothers Rick and Mark del Castillo doing an acoustic collaboration on Latin and flamenco songs for their parents. The brothers had been playing electric guitar separately in other bands and, in fact, had never played together. When guitarist/vocalist and good friend Alex Ruiz began adding words to the music it set in motion a force that would continue to be reckoned with nearly a decade later.

Blending a variety of musical styles while keeping a deep Latin influence, the band began performing live in 2001. Their first show in Austin, Texas, coincided with the release of their first CD, Brothers of the Castle. Both were met with outstanding reviews. Encouraged by the warm reception into the world of live music, Del Castillo began building a following around Austin. Their work paid off when they received the first of what would be many awards by getting the nod as Best Band in the categories of World Music and Mexican/Traditional Latin at the Austin Music Awards during SXSW in 2002.

Del Castillo’s follow up CD, Vida, would announce the band’s presence not only in Austin, but across the country. With authority. Del Castillo picked up seven major awards at the 2003 Austin Music Awards, including four awards for Vida as well as the coveted Band of the Year honors.

During this time, Del Castillo met filmmaker Robert Rodriguez. This meeting would put the band in the national spotlight. The filmmaker asked Rick del Castillo to provide guitar on the soundtrack of the film Spy Kids 3D: Game Over. Rodriguez would go on to produce the band’s critically acclaimed live DVD. The relationship with Rodriguez would continue with the brothers del Castillo and Ruiz contributing music to the film “Once Upon a Time in Mexico”.

Del Castillo performed at the premier of “Once Upon a Time in Mexico”, joined on stage during their performance by Rodriguez, Cheech Marin, Antonio Banderas and Patricia Vonne. Taking note of Del Castillo’s music was one Quentin Tarrantino who would use their music on the “Kill Bill” soundtrack. The band has won at least one major award at the Austin Music Awards every year since 2002 including Album of the Year in 2007 for their third release, Brotherhood.
Del Castillo continues to keep a busy dance card, with television and film performances to their credit and new film and music projects under construction. They have headlined and shared the stage with the likes of Los Lonely Boys, Ozomatli, Los Lobos, Kinky, deSol and others. The band has performed at a number of major festivals including three of Willie Nelson’s 4th of July Picnic and Eric Clapton’s Crossroads Guitar Festival.

Eureka Springs and Arkansas are set for an amazing evening of music. The high powered energy and soul of Del Castillo will captivate listeners and leave them hungry for more . This is one date to mark on the calendar now. For more information, check out Del Castillo on the web at http://www.delcastillomusic.com and http://www.myspace.com/delcastillo.

For Tickets please visit http://www.theaud.org or call 888.855.7823