Public News #45 by Public News

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PUBLIC NEWS #45 July 26 - August 8, 2017 COLUMNS

LETTER RIP .......................................... 4 ANDY SINGER ..................................... 4 TO THE REPUBLIC ............................. 5 OWN YOUR GREATNESS ............... 5 FOODIE ............................................ 25 NEWS .................................... 6 - 13 EVENTS..................................14-15 COVER STORY .......................16-18 MUSIC .................................. 19-23 FOOD .................................... 24-25 THEATER .................................... 26 FILM ..................................... 27-28

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LETTER RIP

DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE RICH AND THE POOR EDITORIAL CHAIRMAN KEN PETTY MUSIC EDITOR MARK CRAMPTON FILM EDITOR GLEN RYAN TADYCH ART EDITOR MISSY JOHANSEN CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: MIKE BAXTER, ROBERT CASTRO, MARK CRAMPTON, ROXANNE DAVIS, SUSAN LOVE FITTS, CINDY GROOVER, TOM DAREN LISKEY, BART PEARSTON, ANNA ‘PINION’ PENA, ANDY SINGER, DEBBY WARREN PHOTOGRAPHY: KEN PETTY GRAPHICS/LAYOUT: KEN PETTY ADVERTISING EXECUTIVE: KEN PETTY DISTRIBUTION PARTNERS: ISSUU, PRESS READER FAKE CELEBRITY INTERN: JOE TORRE Public News is an arts & entertainment fortnightly published on Thursday and distributed to metro Houston subscribers via email, distribution channel partners and to anyone else via our website. We welcome community news, press releases, and article ideas; sent by mail or email. Deadline for calendar items and advertising is the Friday prior to our Thursday publication date. Letters to the Editor and filtered Hate Mail are always encouraged. Subscriptions to the Public News are free and can be obtained by going to the subscribe link on our website: www.publicnewsonline.com Subscriber benefits include special perks and voting in the Readers Choice Awards this summer. Contents of Public News are the sole property of Public News Co. and are protected under copyright. No portion may be reproduced in whole or in part without the written permission of the publisher... he does check things out most times. You are encouraged to share as many copies of the Public News to as many friends as you’d like! Feel free to share on any and all social media outlets. #PublicNews

Dear Readers, It has been said that you can make more money but you can’t make more time. It also has been said that time can make money, but money cannot buy time. Both the rich and the poor have the same amount of time in a day, 24 hours. The difference between the rich and the poor is at the rich know how to manage their time, the poor do not. The poor will come home from work grab a beer sit down in the recliner and watch TV for hours Ken Petty on end. The rich do not do this as they realize useless television watching does not provide a good return on the time invested. This does not mean that the rich do not relax. They do. They just choose to relax in the more constructive manner. A rich man or woman will read up to three books a week. The poor rarely even own a library card much less use it. Did you know that only 5% of all Americans own a library card? A library card is a free pass to a world of information in print form. So the working poor have no excuse for not reading and developing their mind.

It has also been said that you become the average of the five people you spend the most time with. So if you want to be successful, pick five people who are also successful and spend more time with them. if you hang around the same five people even at work you’re not going to rise above them in success or status. The rich also choose better things to eat. They eat healthy. They eat fruits and vegetables and genuine meat products unless of course they’re vegan. The poor generally gravitate toward junk food like McDonald’s. Granted, McDonald’s does offer some

healthy choices like salads, but those are generally a little bit more expensive than what the poor would rather spend on a meal. Poor eating habits will give you poor health. Poor health will steal your time. The rich invest in themselves. It has been suggested that one should strive to live on 70% of their income. Ten percent of your income should be set aside for saving; another ten percent of your income should be set aside for giving. Lastly, ten percent of your income should be set aside for personal

continued on page 26

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TO THE REPUBLIC

FASCISM 101 by Bart Pearston

ance.

When I took World History in the 1970’s, we learned about this evil thing called “fascism” that sprang up in the Axis Powers during The Great Depression. Il Duce’s, Partito Nazionale Fascista, described it famously as “Fascism should more appropriately be called Corporatism because it is a merger of state and corporate power”. Praised in Hitler’s “Mein Kampf ” while imprisoned it was demonstrated for the world to see once elected as Chancellor in 1933. I remember hearing Reagan define it as private enterprise/ ownership but total governmental control and regulation when asked about the claim that “If Fascism comes to America, it will come in the name of Liberalism” in a 1975, “60 minutes” interview my senior year. Almost unheard of for 40 years, Webster’s defines it as “a governmental system of a dictator having complete power, forcibly suppressing opposition and criticism, regimenting all industry, commerce, etc., and emphasizing an aggressive nationalism and often racism.” Lately it has become the “nom du jour” epithet to accuse those of racism and intoler-

I disagree with both definitions. Modern fascism is what Benito Mussolini described it originally; “when corporations and government become merged.” Last fall, Americans rejected a candidate (Electorally, anyway) who was nearly unanimously funded and supported by US financials and corporations. The so-called “populist” selected his economic advisory team right out of Goldman-Sachs. (Kushner, Mnuchin, Cohn, etc.). Many voters were repulsed by Clinton’s “coziness” with GoldmanSachs and Wall Street and outrageous “speaking fees” which she wouldn’t detail. But the problem is much deeper than the top of the ticket. Last week’s $400K 30 minute speaking fee to ex-President Obama by the group he labelled “Fat cats” for giving themselves huge bonuses from the “stimulus he pushed through just makes me shake my head. The stop-gap spending bill just passed written and benefitting every special interest group in DC just added another $1.1 Trillion in spending in the next 5 months. Unpayable war debts, divisive identity politics, violent, unending street violence reads like my History text.

OWN YOUR GREATNESS

SETTING GOALS by Debbie Warren

Setting goals..seems simple enough. This is a very popular topic between my clients and I. Understand, the difficulty does not lie in setting the goal itself, but in staying focused and on track, in order to reach our goal. First let me say this, there are many pathways that may lead us to our destination. Once we understand this, we can begin the necessary work to get there. Where to begin? I cannot express enough how imporDebbie Warren tant it is to create a plan, a map per say, in order to reach your goal. Pre-plan for unexpected roadblocks. Ask yourself, ”what are some things that may prevent me from reaching my goal?” Identify and name those road blocks? Next, how can we pre-plan for what to do, if and when those road blocks show up? The answer is in the question, we pre-plan what we will do. We create a solution to every road block we foresee on the way to our goal. This way, we are best prepared to handle each one as it arises. For example, one of your initial roadblocks may have been finances? However, your solution to removing that problem was already resolved. You knew it would likely be a problem along the way, so you prepared the solution while constructing the map to your goal. You already decided to pick up some overtime to cover these possible expenses. Remember, it is not always how we get there that is important, just that we get there. Do not allow road blocks to prevent you from your goal. This is one of the primary reasons we give up those goals. We feel defeated and overwhelmed by these challenges along the way. Dealing with them one at a time, pre-planning the solution, we have already conquered and resolved them. Thus, the feeling to give up is not so heightened, rather, we become empowered. Relative to these obstacles, let’s address one of the biggest struggles along PUBLIC NEWS

the way, reasons versus excuses. Is there a difference? Are we actually clear on which one we are using at the time? Or, are we aware, but in denial? We are all guilty of using excuses as reasons for not doing things. What is the difference between the two? A reason is something very clearly in our way. This is why we call it a roadblock. They actually prevent us from moving forward and bring our task to a halt. Whereas , an excuse is just that, something we allow to be a roadblock. For example, a landslide in the road is a reason for not having the ability to continue on that road. On the other hand, a rock that you don’t want to take the time to step over or move, is an excuse. Keep in mind, whether an excuse or reason, it does not need to keep us from attaining our goal. This is exactly why we need to put a map or a plan together to reach our goals. We will use less excuses and the reasons/roadblocks will already have solutions. Remember that landslide in the road? You knew it could be there due to bad weather the week before so you made the decision to take a different route. Remember, it does not matter how you get there. Finally, don’t look down the long road at your distant goal, as this can be very overwhelming and disappointing. Instead, create milestones along the way and focus on those, one at a time. Before you know it, you will be at your goal. Also, remember to celebrate along the way. Each milestone is just as important as reaching the goal will be. After all, how could we reach our goal without milestones? Each one is an acknowledgment of a success, bringing you closer to the end result, your final step, and your goal. With that said, celebrate each one, as each one is a big accomplishment. Be strong, be brave, you ARE more than capable! Everything you have experienced has led you to this moment. You have every tool you need to be successful. continued on page 10 JULY 26 - AUGUST 8, 2017

NEWS

SUMMER MOVIE NIGHTS CONTINUE ON JULY 20/21 & AUGUST 17/18 Precinct 4 invites the community to enjoy a free showing of Moana along with a snack and an activity starting at dusk Thursday, July 20 at Burroughs Park and Friday, July 21 at Collins Park. In this musical adventure set in ancient Polynesia, a chief ’s daughter must travel to a mystical island and return an island goddess’s stolen heart to save her people. Along the way, Moana meets the demigod Maui who she teams up with to fight an angry lava demon and other magical beings. Adults and children alike will enjoy this film’s positive message and memorable music.

once the votes are tallied. “Summer Movie Nights in the Park is the perfect chance to relax and enjoy a special night under the stars with friends and family,” said Commissioner R. Jack Cagle. “We’re proud to offer events like these that help foster a sense of community and give residents new reasons to visit our parks.”

Summer Movie Nights continues with all new movies Thursday, Aug. 17 at Burroughs Park and Friday, Aug. 18 at Collins Park. Early arrival is recommended to get a good location for your blankets and lawn chairs. Participants can show up as early at 7 p.m. for a craft. Refreshments Participants can help select the next fea- will be provided. Burroughs Park is tured film by voting each month at www. located at 9738 Hufsmith Road, Tomball, hcp4.net/p4movies. The online polls will Texas 77375. Collins Park is located at open one month before each movie night 6727 Cypresswood Drive, Spring, Texas and the winning film will be announced 77379.

“BURN YOUR BUNS” BIKE RIDE FOR BRIDGEWOOD FARMS ROUND UP crest Farms, LLC, Justice of the Peace, Pct. 1 Wayne Mack; and many individuals- Rita and Jimmy Schumacher; Jessica and Devin Teasdale; James and Nan O’Hare; Beverly and Gary Ward; Rick, Natalie, and Sarah Meidel; and Helen Schwisow.

Cyclists took to the streets and through the rolling hills of Willis and Conroe early Saturday morning on July 4th at the 14th Annual “Burn Your Buns” Bike Ride to benefit Bridgewood Farms with 503 registered riders.

Club and The Mules Cycling Club. Volunteers were there early to check in participants, help at rest stations, or assist with safety on road including The Lake Conroe Rotary, attorney Mike McDougal, law enforcement from Pct. 1 Constable Cash and Pct. 2 Constable Gene DeForest, along with the Montgomery County Hospital District.

Club (WCC), and the Lake Conroe Rotary Club, the Diamond Sponsor was Jeffrey Tacy and Marissa Gonzalez. Gold Sponsors are Troy Construction, Borden, and Congressman Kevin Brady. Silver Sponsors-Cannon Custom Homes, Lynch Signs, Tom and Mary Krolczyk, Westbound Bank, Riders from local bike clubs and Optimal Process Solutions, Law office seasoned cyclists rode the 20, 31, or of Kelly Chavez, Law Office of Mike 62 mile (loop twice) course along tree McDougal, Ed and Robbi Turek, lined streets and rolling hills in Willis. “It was an honor to assist with this Shannon Jewelers, Sheri, Stacy, and Many participants “doubled the fun” event. Great people doing great things Bill Brown; Paula, Jerry, and Jody by going down and out twice to cover for our community”, said Constable Shumpert; and Pam, Davey, and Sky the 62 miles. The majority of particiPhillip Cash of Pct. 1 in Montgomery Holak. Bronze Sponsors are Wiesner pants participate traditionally every County. Automotive, Quest Engineering, Kris year from The Woodlands Cycling Presented by The Woodlands Cycling McBride Accounting Services, Oak-

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All the organizations work together to ensure the success of the ride by recruiting law enforcement, volunteers, and the Montgomery County Hospital District to monitor the route. Both Mike McDougal and WCC have supported the bike ride since its inception in January 2004. The WCC takes responsibility for the ride route, TXDOT approvals, and all promotion to cycling clubs. Steve Schoger of the WCC ensures that all major intersections the cyclists cross have a pointer on the route. “Words cannot express how grateful Bridgewood Farms is for all the fantastic volunteers and riders who participated in this year’s ride. Neither rain, nor storm, nor sleet, nor snow (plus the unbearable heat and humidity) can keep a rider from doing what they love to do best”, said Flo Nelson, Executive Director. “Without these amazing people it would not have been such a great 4th of July!”

NEWS

“Very different from other English classes. It has really helped make us more aware of the community.” “This class is a win-win-win,” said Dennis. “The college benefits because students are getting realworld experience, the community benefits because a nonprofit project is getting funding, plus as a teacher, I feel encouraged to try new things to find new ways to reach students.” Dennis secured the funding from LSC-Montgomery’s newly formed Undergraduate Research Institute (URI).

Cassidy Joined for Hope received a $500 grant after Lone Star College-Montgomery students from Melissa Dennis’s English 1301 conducted research to identify the nonprofit’s need, then wrote a formal proposal and prepared a presentation for a faculty panel. To learn more about Cassidy Joined for Hope and how you can get involved in spreading this important message, visit their website at www.CassidyJoinedforHope.com.

Lone Star College-Montgomery puts community at heart of new freshman composition class CONROE - Lone Star CollegeMontgomery English Professor Melissa Dennis added a new twist to her freshman English 1301 class and it involved one local nonprofit receiving a $500 grant.

it is different,” said student Mario Pliego. “It is not assignment-based: here is your topic write an essay. I do not like to do those types of projects because I feel it lacks a purpose, but this was different.”

Dennis assembled 5 nonprofits: Angel Reach, Cassidy Joined for Hope, Direct Hope, Interfaith of the Woodlands and Montgomery County Women’s Center, and she split her students into groups assigned to each. The students conducted primary research to identify the nonprofit’s need, then wrote a formal proposal and prepared a presentation.

The students presented their proposals to a panel of faculty and Cassidy Joined for Hope won the $500 grant. “We are so honored,” said Kim Hess President of Cassidy Joined for Hope. “It has been overwhelming to see the response, the effort and the heart that these kids put into this project.”

“Sharing Cassidy’s story is not easy, but it is a story that has to be told and shared,” said Hess with tears in her eyes. “We all have our own stories. You never know what someone is going through just by talking to them, you never know how broken they can be on the inside. We can make a difference and help save lives if we all start being more compassionate and open up the conversation to start talking of suicide, because if we do not talk about it we cannot prevent it.”

The spirit of helping those in need has permeated the students in this class. The students are forming their own Mavericks Joined Cassidy Joined for Hope spreads “I have so many students who have benefitted from nonprofits in the message of teen suicide preven- for Hope Club to raise awareness about suicide on campus and they tion through school clubs, comsome way throughout their lives started a book drive to help Intermunity involvement and speaking and I know a lot of them would faith of The Woodlands’ summer events. Cassidy was a 16 year-old like to give back,” said Dennis. programs. “Students like to have a real, mean- girl who tragically lost her lift to suicide in December 2015. She did ingful reason to write.” not fit the typical mold you expect “This was a really unique class,” said student Mariela Sandoval. from a victim of suicide. Hess is “I really liked working on this project because as an English class Cassidy’s mom. PUBLIC NEWS

“This class would not have been offered without the support of LSC-Montgomery’s URI,” Dennis said. “I would love to eventually get community businesses to match funding to help get all the projects funded. There is always room to grow.” To learn more about Cassidy Joined for Hope and how you can get involved in spreading this important message, visit their website at www.CassidyJoinedforHope. com. This section of English 1301 will also be offered in the fall semester. To register for that class now visit www.lonestar.edu/registration. Lone Star College offers highquality, low-cost academic transfer and career training education to 95,000 students each semester. LSC is training tomorrow’s workforce today and redefining the community college experience to support student success. Stephen C. Head, Ph.D., serves as chancellor of LSC, the largest institution of higher education in the Houston area with an annual economic impact of $3.1 billion. LSC consists of six colleges, eight centers, two university centers, Lone Star Corporate College and LSC-Online. To learn more, visit LoneStar.edu.

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patrick sisters were also accepted to LSC-Montgomery as Honors College Chancellors’ Fellows. “Professor Kennedy called me first to say I was accepted and I immediately asked, ‘was my sister accepted too?!’” said Devyn. “He actually told me that was confidential and he could not tell me that information!” “I was stressed out!” said Haley. “I found out I was accepted two days after Devyn. I was worried. I learned about the Honors College Chancelor’s Fellows first and I thought, ‘man if I do not get in it would be depressing!’”

SEEING DOUBLE: THREE SETS OF TWINS GRADUATE FROM LONE STAR COLLEGE-MONTGOMERY CONROE – Lone Star College-Montgomery graduation was twice as nice for three area families. Devyn Fitzpatrick & Haley Fitzpatrick; Christopher Frantz & Jason Frantz; and Ariole Jones & Ashley Jones, all twins, celebrated their associates degrees with almost 1,400 other graduates May 12. The ceremony was even more special for Ariole & Ashley because their mother, Brandi Davis, led by example and also received her degree. “I had a great experience at LSCMontgomery,” said Brandi. “Professors helped me get through something that I tried to accomplish 20 years ago and I finally did it. I am glad to achieve it with my twin daughters. May 12 is their birthday as well and it is Mother’s Day weekend, this is beautiful time to celebrate life. This is wonderful.” Brandi received her associate of science and is transferring to Sam Houston State University to become a dietician. “I look forward to helping the world feel better, eating and losing weight,” said Brandi.

on to Stephen F. Austin State University to become a chemistry teacher and Ashley received her associate of arts in music education and will transfer to Lamar University to study the same thing. They said this fall will be the first time they have been apart for a long time. “We have been apart before, but not living apart,” said Ashley. “This will be for a year.” “It is only a semester,” Ariole reminded her sister. “We come back after the semester is over!” Chris Frantz and Jason Frantz are sticking together. Chris received his honors associate degree in computer science, and is transferring to The University of Texas at Austin, while Jason received his honors associates of arts in finance and is waiting to hear back from UT. “We will room together, if given the option,” said Chris.

Devyn graduated with her honors associates of science and plans to attending nursing school; Haley also graduated with her honors associates of science, she will attend Sam Houston State University for biomedical science.

Many think twins constantly switch places, tricking friends, family and teachers, but the Fitzpatricks, Frantzs and Jones have grown out of playing those games in college, though they will definitely live together senior year.” admitted to trying to pull of switches in high school. The boys decided to come to LSCMontgomery together because it made “In our college classes we sat where we sense financially for their family. were supposed to so our teachers could keep us straight,” said Devyn. “We did not have the funds to both go to a four-year university and live on “We do not have the same personality, our own,” said Chris. “Even if there but similar characteristics,” said Haley. were one of us it would still have been very difficult, but with both of us it was “We are so much alike,” said Chris. a no brainer to go to LSC-Montgom“We do tons of stuff together. It is nice, ery.” being twins has forced us to push each other.” The brothers are both Honors College Chancellor’s Fellows, which means “He has had my back, I have had his,” they received a full tuition scholarship said Jason. and a book allowance. For the Jones sisters their mother has “At first we went to LSC-Montgomery also had their back. She encouraged for financial reasons, but overall it was them to go to LSC-Montgomery tothe right decision,” said Jason who is gether and has enjoyed watching them also Vice President of Rotaract, Vice grow. President of Outreach for the Honors College Student Organization and part “LSC-Montgomery is a great stepof the Accounting Club. “Being at LSC- ping stone to transition from home Montgomery has given us so many to college,” said Brandi. “It helped my leadership opportunities. It has been daughters understand how college such a big change from high school to works, so now that they are going to now. I did not have any regalia in high larger universities they are more expeschool and becoming successful in col- rienced.” lege has been something that has been really life changing.”

“Chris already found a place to live and I told him to take it because if I do not Educating and helping people runs in get in I do not want him to be waiting,” the family; Ariole received her associ- said Jason. “If I do go and it does not ate of science in chemistry and is going work out to live together this year, we It was a coincidence that the Fitz-

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continued from page 5 Please feel free to contact me if you need any help or support moving forward with your goals. We are stronger when we have a support system. If you or anyone you know is suffering from anxiety or depression, remember, no one should ever suffer alone. Feel free to reach out, I would love to help in any way I can. Be blessed and be a blessing to someone. Debbie Warren Phone: 936 577 5679 Email: ownyourgr8tness@gmail.com Facebook: @ownyourgr8tness

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LSC-MONTGOMERY DISABILITY SERVICES FOSTERS STUDENT’S SUCCESS CONROE – Norman Eugene Hartley Jr. or “J.R.” puts ability in ‘dis’ability. The 44 year old received his Human Services Certificate at Lone Star College-Montgomery’s commencement ceremony May 12.

“I am so proud of J.R. for completing his degree with us,” said Killian. “He is an excellent example of the kinds of inspirational students we have in our Human Services Program, students who have a heart to serve others and “All my life I was in special education,” who have persevered to achieve their said Hartley. “A lot of people told me I goals. I always tell our students they could not go to college, but when I met are my heroes, and I am excited to my wife in 2011 she convinced me that have played a small roll in JR’s success.” I could.” “Without professors Graham Miner, Hartley credits LSC-Montgomery Dis- Gloria Kessler, Dr. Cynthia Trumbo and Glen Killian I would have never ability Services for helping him. been a college graduate. They are very “Without their accommodations I do patient, very understanding and very caring. I will always, always hold them not think I would have come close to making it,” said Hartley. “When I first in high regard.” got here they gave me a pen that would go over words and read it to you, then J.R. has been in the grocery business since 1993, most recently working in I got a scribe and it really helped. Scribes read me my tests and for some produce at Kroger in Huntsville. He reason when something is read to me I lives with his wife, Jamie, daughter Lydia and 22-month-old daughter comprehend it better, it clicks.” Cora Mae. Hartley’s dad, Norman J.R. has advice for others with disabili- Eugene Hartley Sr. died three years ago. He gave J.R. a watch he wore on ties looking to attend college. graduation day. “Please go to college, you can do it,” said J.R. “Disability services at LSC“I told my brother to save my dad a Montgomery will do everything in seat so it was like he was with me, their power so you can succeed.” watching me on graduation day,” said J.R. “I know he would be proud. Hartley’s favorite class was Dynamics My certificate is something that no of Group Counseling with Professor one can ever take away from me. It is Glen Killian. something that I accomplished and I will have those memories and friends “I did not want that class to end forever. I can say I went to college and because I really liked it a lot,” said I graduated. I know now that with my Hartley. “I made a group on Facebook determination nothing can deter me if so everybody could keep up with each I want to do it.” other and people still post to it.”

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INTERVIEW WITH THEOCRACY’S FOUNDER MATT SMITH by Robert Castro

Theocracy started as a one-man project created by Matt Smith, who played and sang everything on the self-titled debut album released at the end of 2003 on Metal Ages Records. The album received great reviews for its epic, melodic Power Metal. What you find on each of Theocracy’s albums is a spectrum of different progressions, which will tantalize every metal heads senses. From crushing guitars, to soaring vocals, Theocracy brings the goods but most importantly, melodies that get stuck in your head.

ties, there is a huge variety of influences, but for me Queensryche was the big one. They were doing things that were so much more intelligent and complex than most metal bands, and that had a big influence on me as a youth. From there it was everything from Metallica to Iron Maiden to Edguy to Neal Morse. As long as the songs are great, and the music is powerful and melodic, we can usually enjoy it. Personally, I’m still influenced by great songwriters more than anything. PN: Where do you gather your songwriting inspiration

Since his start as a one-man show Matt has added a complete and very impresMatt: It really varies, but it always has sive line-up of musicians to be something that has meaning to me personally. We always want to avoid the Jonathan Hinds –Guitar clichéd version of what a lot of people Val Allen Wood- Lead Guitar think of as “Christian lyrics,” so we try Jared Oldham-Bass to find angles that haven’t been done to death on the topics we tackle. Some Now, the latest chapter in Theocracy’s songs are about something I’ve gone career is here with Ghost Ship. The band through, or something that happened in comes out firing on all cylinders across the life of a friend. Sometimes we cover ten tracks where every song is iconic and more historical topics, such as in the strong enough to potentially be somesongs “Nailed” or “Ichthus.” But there one’s favorite. The album was conceived, always has to be an emotional thread to in the words of Smith, as “a song-orient- latch onto. ed album where each track stands alone, and.” The result features everything a PN: This question is from one of your Theocracy fan could wish for; the band many fans (Matthew Leroux ) The Song looks forward to taking the new mate“Lay the Demon to Rest” What inspired rial to stages across the globe. I sat down those lyrics/was it written from a perwith Matt for a few questions and one sonal experience from one of their many fans. Matt: Yes, it was from personal experiPN: I was wondering about the name ences, but I tried to make it universal. of your band, how did you choose it It’s a song about temptation, but I didn’t and what is the significance for you or want to make it about anything specific, towards your music. because that can change from day to day and from person to person. So we Matt: We’re a Christian band, so the made it more symbolic, metaphoric and lyrics all come from that worldview, and allegorical, and I think that was the right the name is a different twist on that. The decision because people constantly talk word “theocracy” means a government about how much that song helps them, ruled directly by God instead of men, regardless of their struggle. I struggle but we use it in a different way: instead with a variety of things from time to of a governmental system, it’s an inditime, so I didn’t write it about any one vidual life. So it’s personal: Theocracy thing in particular, but just about tempwithin. It made sense for our music, and tation in gene. also sounded cool for a band name! You can check out Theocracy July 28th PN: Who are your biggest influences at the BFE club in Houston. This is one (collectively ) show I will refuse to miss. Matt: Well, with five different personali-

PUBLIC NEWS

JULY 26 - AUGUST 8, 2017

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EVENTS ARTS Conroe Art League Every Monday 9:30am-12:30pm Every Tuesday 6pm-9pm Every Wednesday 1pm The Wonders of Watercolor Classes with Carrie Allbritton! Carrie discounts that old saying that watercolor is the hardest media and unforgiving, believing instead that when you understand the paints and what they do on paper, you will find it fun, rewarding and very forgiving. Ongoing watercolor classes every Monday from 9:30am - 12:30pm AND every Tuesday from 6:00pm - 9:00pm at the Conroe Art League Gallery. Contact Carrie directly at: carrieallbritton@ gmail.com or 936-444-7303 Cost: $25 per class (payable a month in advance) Conroe Art League Every Tuesday 1pm-3:30pm Oil Painting Classes w/Gary Hernandez Each student works at his/her own pace in a creative and pleasant atmosphere. The students will learn the tools and materials of oil painting. New students will be painting a new painting at the first session. You will copy master paintings as a pathway to creating your own style of painting. You will learn.... -How to use a grid to quickly layout the painting. -How to select the right palette. -How to select and mix colors. -How to select the right paint brushes -How to apply color theory and use the color wheel. -How to pick the right canvas and how to coat a canvas. -How to varnish a painting. -How to paint in Grisaille These are only a few of the tips I will teach you to create successful paintings and more importantly have an enjoyable painting experience. Ongoing classes every Tuesday from 1:00pm 3:30pm at the Conroe Art League Gallery- 127 Simonton St. - Conroe, TX 77301 Contact Gary Hernandez directly to sign up: 713-569-9209 or garyhernandezstudio@yahoo. com Cost: $35/per class paid in advance monthly. Conroe Art League First Thursday of the month 11am-5pm Photography Learning Center w/Ed Gorman The Photography Learning Center is back at the Conroe Art Gallery!! If you have questions about photography or how to use your camera, whether it’s a DSLR, SLR, film, cell phone, iPad, etc., then come to the Conroe Art Gallery on the first Thursday of each month from 11am - 5pm. The Conroe Art Gallery is at 127 Simonton St., Conroe, TX 77301. Ed will show you how to work your camera and take better photographs. Contact Ed Gorman: edgorman1973@gmail. com or call 936-443-3487 for more information. Conroe Art League First and Third Thursday 1pm-3:30pm Figure Drawing Group Classes are at the Conroe Art League Gallery 127 Simonton St. Conroe, TX 77301 Live Model, All Skill Levels Welcome!

For more information contact: Darby Kachmar darbykachmar@me.com 936-228-5126 or Marilyn Lowry mlowry3@comcast.net or 936447-1579 Fee is $10 per session, no reservation necessary Conroe Art League Every Thursday 2pm-4:30pm Painting with Pastels This is an ongoing weekly course, beginning February 5, 2015. The class meets every Thursday from 2:00pm - 4:30pm in the upstairs classroom at the Conroe Art League Gallery 127 Simonton St. - Conroe, TX 77301. Painting in pastels is quick, easy, colorful, beautiful, very portable - and FUN! Handled correctly, pastels will last many lifetimes and their pure colors never fade, crack, or peel. No stress and no pressure here to paint a masterpiece. You’ll learn how to turn “happy accidents” into a part of your painting, or erase it - pastels are very forgiving. Everyone will hjave a chance to experiment with different techniques and materials, and you’ll develop your own unique style over time. For those who are new to art, you’ll learn the basics of drawing and painting. For more experienced artists who are new to pastels, you’ll learn the characteristics and techniques that are unique to pastels. At the end of each class, you’ll have a finished or nearly-finished painting to take home, ready for framing. Each student is encouraged to learn at their own pace. You are welcomed to do a classbased painting from reference photos provided by the instructor, or bring in your own reference materials to use. We may also paint from life, or go outdoors to paint as the weather permits. During this ongoing course, you will: -Improve your drawing skills, including proportions and perspective. -Learn how to see and paint values, types of underpaintings, both wet and dry. -Create different effects using hard vs. soft pastels. -Layer and blend pastels to get exactly the color you want. -Develop and use a portable pastel kit for outdoor painting and travel. -Know how to paint trees, clouds and water. -Learn how to paint and draw from life and en plein air (outdoors). There’s no pressure to develop a masterpiece or “do it right”. This class is all about having fun and discovering the artist in you. You’ll have lots of individual attention from the instructor with helpful feedback so your paintings keep getting better. Your supply list has options to fit a budget, and everyone is welcomed to register and join us any time. Please contact the instructor, Kathy Fediw, at Kathy@jfaconsultingbiz.com or call her business number at 281-687-6966, if you have any questions and for a list of materials. Cost: $30.00 per class, payable at the first of each month or at the beginning of each session. Instructor: Kathy Fediw, LEED AP ID+C, CLP, CLT

EDUCATION Barbara Bush Branch Library Ongoing [call for class dates & times] Ongoing Computer Classes Dave Smith, computer instructor, will be teaching seven different computer classes at the Barbara Bush Branch Library in March 2015.

The classes are Computer Basics, Introduction to the Internet, Email, MS Word, MS Excel, MS PowerPoint, and MS Publisher. He also teaches additional classes which are offered at various times throughout the year, including Digital Photography and Smartphone Tips. Please call for the dates and times of the classes and to register. Each class meets for a single 2-hour session. As class size is limited to 12 people, pre-registration is required for each class. Registration is on a first-come, first-served basis. Registration opens 30 days prior to the class. Please visit the website (www.hcpl.net) or call the library at 281-376-4610 for more information and to register for these classes. The classes are held in the Barbara Bush Library Friends Computer Lab at 6817 Cypresswood Drive in Spring. Baldwin Boettcher Library Ongoing English As A Second Language The Baldwin Boettcher Library Staff provides ESL classes for folks who want to learn to speak English or improve their English speaking skills. Our beginning classes are scheduled on Mondays, 6-7:30 pm; Fridays 1-3 pm; Our intermediate ESL classes are on Wednesdays, 6-7:30 pm and Thursdays, 1-3 pm; Our conversational English class is on Tuesdays 10-12 pm; Our advanced English class is on Tuesdays 4-5 pm. Call the library at 281-821-1320 for more information about the ESL classes.

terpiece to take home with you at the end of the night. For additional purchase hand crafted frames made specially to display the 2 canvases as 1, will be available following the class. Cost $90 per couple. Paint On Tap Matthew Haug 281-740-3986 paintontaptx@gmail.com Facebook event: https://www.facebook.com/ events/164427764050796/

GAMING Pokémon Monday and Wednesday 5-8 Whether you are a new play wanting to learn to play the Pokémon trading card game and how to build a deck or you are a world champion there is fun to be had at this league! Come and go as you please. Play the card game or video game and have fun meeting new players of all ages! At Space Cadets, click here for info. Magic The Gathering new player night Wednesday at 6pm If you’re new Magic the Gathering or just need a refresher, Wednesday nights are for you. Everyone who shows up will receive a free 60 card deck (non standard legal) to learn the game. We’ll teach you the basics and give some good tips on deck building. At Space Cadets, click here for info.

Magic The Gathering commanders night Thursday 6pm Barbara Bush Branch Library This is your 100 card deck slugfest! A comEvery Thursday noon-1pm mander deck features 100 cards with no dupliYoga For Stress Relief cates (aside from lands). Your Commander is Certified yoga instructor, Linda Popinksi, offers called in when needed and when it leaves, you this free class every Thursday from 12:00-1:00 can summon again for just 2 mana more. At in the Earl Elliott Room at the Barbara Bush Space Cadets, click here for info. Branch Library, 6817 Cypresswood Drive in Spring. Both men and women are welcome. Magic The Gathering Friday night magic Bring your own yoga mat and a beach towel. Friday 6:30 pm You’re a powerful wizard summoning mighty monsters, vampires, elves and more to do your AREA TOURS bidding. Are you slow and methodical or quick and relentless? Our regular Friday Night MagConroe Art League ic events. The format will vary from week to By Appointment week, but mostly it’ll be Standard construction Conroe Art League with a $5 entry. Prizes consist of store credit 127 Simonton, Conroe TX 77301 and/or booster packs depending on number of The Conroe Art League invites all Montgomery players. At Space Cadets, click here for info. County residents and friends to come in and see their award-winning artists and their masVanguard Fridays 6-8pm terpieces. They are located at 127 Simonton, The popular Bushiroad game, Cardfight VanConroe 77301. Their gallery exhibit includes guard, is played every Friday at 6 p.m. Choose paintings, prints, sculptures, pottery, jewelry your Vanguard character and bolster them with and much, much more. If you are wondering support from rear guard positions. Boost them what to do for fun this summer, contact Kerry up and annihilate the competition! OfferConkling at kerryart127@gmail.com to arrange ing regular and special event play. At Space a guided tour of the 103 year old historic galCadets, click here for info. lery for groups of from 5 – 25 people. Your free tour includes refreshments (coffee, afterStar Wars x-wing every Friday 7pm and noon tea or happy hour) and an artist demon3rd Saturday 3pm stration. This would be great fun for couples or Switching from the slower bulk cruisers to for a group of friends. nimble dog fighters, Star Wars X-Wing is a miniatures game featuring all of your favorSouthern Star Brewing ite star fighters from the franchise!. Deftly March 15 7pm-10pm maneuver around debris, opponents and your Couples Painting Party own ships as you attempt to obliterate your opPaint On Tap presents Date Night: Couples ponents. At Space Cadets, click here for info. Night Painting Party on Wednesday, March 15th from 7:00pm to 10:00pm in the Southern Star Brewing Company Taproom. Look no further for a great evening out to share with your special someone, 3 hour painting party includes 3 beers per person and delectable Hors d’oeuvres available during the class. The painting is split on two canvases to make one mas-

PUBLIC NEWS

JULY 26 - AUGUST 8, 2017

THE WOMAN WHO DARED SAY “NO” PIA LEDBETTER SHARES THE WAXING BAR’S SAGA 16

JULY 26 - AUGUST 8, 2017

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is maybe 15. It is not a very long process. There are people that aren’t as fast as we are but there are not as good as we are. It’s not like you are torching them. Of course, I make my own wax. I mix a couple of different blue waxes together to make my specific blue, so that it makes it slightly less uncomfortable. It’s not a very long process. Even with a full body wax. The first time takes about an hour-and-ahalf, but after the first time I get done in 45 minutes.

CASEY WITT, KATINA ROSIEJKA, PIA LEDBETTER IN FRONT OF DAMIAN ROSIEJKA’S MURAL

It’s been a while since I visited Pia Ledbetter at her location for the Waxing Bar. Her place is not your typical waxing place. It’s the only service she provides and she along with her staff are very professional and highly recommended by clientele. She’s weathered a lot of changes over the last half dozen years. The sudden passing of her brother Damian, who served as office manager at the Waxing Bar and then her husband of 19 years, Michael, suddenly passed away last fall, of all days on Damian’s birthday. Now the resilient 40-year old businesswoman soldiers on determined to build on her success regardless what life throws her way. Pia was very gracious to sit down with us for the second time in fours years to talk about her business, her life and her principled decision in turning down a potential hit reality show based on the Waxing Bar. Public News: A lot of things have changed since we last spoke. You moved locations, up the road from the Dosey Doe Big Barn. Pia: Yeah, we were running out of parking spaces. We needed to focus on waxing folks, not helping them find parking spots behind each other. It was crazy. Here, at the new location parking is a little better but not a whole lot better. Public News: We’ll fast forward, and now you are the owner and proprietor of The Waxing Bar. Pia: Going on eleven years, now. Yeah, it’s great.

Public News: Many women, in the late-40s or early-50s, suffer from a lot of growth of facial. I assuming you can take care of that, too. Pia: Sure, and sometimes it takes as little as five minutes, maybe 10. It just depends. Some of these women who have really coarse hair so it might take a little long until you break down the roots. But it also depends on if they have shaved it or have taken care of it poorly. Every time you wax, you hair grows back thinner and thinner, because you’re breaking down the roots. It’s really coarse at first, but it grows back really soft. Over time, you kill the follicles so it’ll never grow back.

and withdrew the next day and I decided Public News: You, personally, have some to be an esthetician. So, doing the waxing really cool tattoos. When you work with Public News: What was the genesis of skin that has tattoos does the waxing all came all came from a bad wax.” The Waxing Bar. What was it that made process bleach them out at all? you want to get into waxing? Public News: What exactly is an estheti- Pia: “No, no, no. Actually, it makes them Pia: I was going to hair school at the better, because you take all the dead cian? time, and my brother’s ex-girlfriend got hair and skin off. A lot of people don’t me a gift certificate for a wax. It was at a Pia: We do skin care, much like a cosexfoliate their bodies like they should, very well-known place downtown, which metologist do hair. Well, actually they you should have everything exfoliating do skin, too. For instance, Casey is a I highly recommend for anything but at least twice a week. From your head to waxing. (laughs) The procedure took her cosmetologist. I met her when I was in your toe, everything. hair school. like an hour, there was skin coming off Public News: What’s the best way to Public News: So, and there was blood that’s when you went exfoliate? splattered on the Pia: You can use a salt or sugar scrub or into waxing full wall. It was crazy. if you just have baking soda on a wash time? We were about halfrag , you can use that, too. You know Pia: “But, everyone way through and when you shave you have that little layer told me, ‘You just I was not going to can’t wax. It’s not go- of dead skin over them? When you let her finish, but I exfoliate, it helps to bring those hairs to ing to work.’ didn’t want to be a the surface so you get a smoother, longer half waxed, though. lasting wax or shave. And, the tattoos Public News: Why What I didn’t know, did they believe that? look shinier and fresher. As a matter the time, was that of fact, all the guys that go to tattoo Pia: Because I was the wax she was usjust offering one ser- conventions, pretty much every tattoo ing was too hot so it vice. Most places of- shop around here really, we wax them all was kind of taking fer waxing with skin before they go so all their stuff looks nice my skin off with the and bright. care, hair or this or wax. I didn’t know that. There are lot of places that specialthat at the time. I thought the woman Public News: It sounds like waxing is for ize in just waxing, but there is not a lot knew what she was doing. So, I went home from that wax that day and sat in a of them. I wanted to give it a try. I mean, everybody? Pia: We have some of the unlikeliest cold bath. Afterwards, I got on the phone I was the first one out here. European characters who wax regularly. I mean, and called all my friends that owned hair didn’t come until years later. we have your older men, we have older salons and they all said ‘It sounds women, we have your soccer moms, Public News: How long does it take to like you got a bad wax.’ And, I thought get a “general” wax? Like a bikini wax or we have your young girls, and we to myself, ‘I can do better than that’. So, have young boys...well, not too young. a Brazilian? I went to school the next day. I didn’t really like the school, but I was going be- Pia: A Brazilian, for a female, is probably (laughs) Actually, I do (wax) boys who cause all my friends were making I went on average 10 to 12 minutes. A Brazilian are 12 and 13 years old. Moms are more attentive to their boys these days than

“there was skin coming off and there was blood splattered on the wall. It was crazy.”

PUBLIC NEWS

JULY 26 - AUGUST 8, 2017

PIA LEDBETTER, KATINA ROSIEJKA, CASEY WITT

they used to be. Public News: It seems as if the younger generation likes waxing because it makes them look more mature. Pia: It’s funny that you say that because I was just having this conversation, last week. There are these girls that were standing at the bus stop, but they don’t look like young girls. They look like grown women.

Public News: The last time we spoke, you were talking about some deal that fell through or that you weren’t going to do. Pia: We pulled out of the (reality)TV show (based on The Waxing Bar). When we filmed it, it was supposed to be about one thing but it wasn’t. We weren’t supposed to get to see it until it aired but we FaceTimed each other so that everybody could see it and it was the complete opposite of what it was supposed because of the way they edited it down. I never believe those people on TV because they edit it that way, I swear to God they do. One of my clients is married to a doctor and they wanted her to divorce him on the show, and we were like, ‘No, we are not here to break people apart. So, we just didn’t do it because it just wasn’t for us. They never aired it.”

“One of my clients is married to a doctor and they wanted her to divorce him on the show, and we were like, ‘No, we are not here to break people apart’.”

Public News: Is there a minimum age you have to meet before you can be waxed? Pia: I mean, if their mothers are in the room, we will do six-or-seven-yearold girls eyebrows. I have a 14-year old client, and I have been waxing her for like six years. She’s on the volleyball team, so I do her legs and arms and little mustache. As long as mom is in the room, we’ll do it. Now, if they want a Brazilian mommy has to be in the room. When they turn 18, they can come by themselves.

JULY 26 - AUGUST 8, 2017

Public News: You dropped out of the project mainly out of respect for clients

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and their secrets. Pia: Exactly. First of all, each of our clients volunteered to be open. Well, the crew was not even supposed to be in the (waxing) room. Well, somehow within a few minutes everyone’s like, ‘I don’t care if they’re in the room. It’s this wellknown network that we are contracually unable to name, so they can’t show anything anyways.’ But, there’s still in three camera dudes in the room. It was cool enough that they even let them in. That was their decision. It was not something we asked them to do. That was them. I mean, there were teachers that are swingers that were openly speaking about

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their lifestyle. They were cool enough to even mention it. However, when they try make a story out of it that’s not fair to that person in their job or their career. Call the network. The network just didn’t care. I worked too hard to get where I am. The Waxing Bar is located at 26107 I-45 A1 The Woodlands, Texas 77380 and they are open Tuesday through Saturday 9am to 6pm, 3pm on Saturdays. Call (281) 363-5055 to make an appointment. Special thanks to Earl Dittman for transcribing the interview.

MICHAEL AND PIA LEDBETTER

MUSIC NEWS & NOTES

LIVE MUSIC LISTINGS

CLICK OR PRESS RED WORDS TO SEE INTERACTIVE CONTENT That One Bar

CONROE Backwoods Saloon

230 Lexington Ct., 936-273-0203 www.backwoodssaloon.com

The Corner Pub

302 N. Main St., 936-788-2390 www.thecornerpubinconroe.com

Game On Sports Bar

1717 N. Fraiser 936-788-6209 www.gameonsportsandmusic.com Bingo, Beer and Bands!

Kat Daddy Bar

BLANK RANGE; PHOTO CREDIT: DON VANCLEAVE

463 FM 1488, 936-273-9342 www.katdaddysbar.com Live Music Sunday Afternoons

Red Brick Tavern

119 Simonton, 936-539-2000 www.theredbricktavern.com

Blank Range Announce Debut Album Marooned With The Treasure out August 25 via Thirty Tigers

On August 25, Nashville’s Blank Range will release their debut album Marooned With The Treasure via Sturdy Girls Records distributed by Thirty Tigers. This release makes the band’s first full length album after three years of touring the country heavily behind their first two EPs Phase II and Vista Bent. Today, Noisey premiered “Opening Band,” the first track to be released from the forthcoming album. Annalise Domenighini said, “It’s a great example of how, sometimes, a song just needs to be simple to be good... Jon Childers’ vocals resemble a southern-fried Bob Dylan.”

& vocals), Matt Novotny (drums & vocals) and Taylor Zachry (bass & vocals) traveled to Durham, NC to record the album with producer Brad Cook (Hiss Golden Messenger) at Overdub Lane in just four days. Much of the inspiration for Marooned With The Treasure is the recent sobriety of singer Jonathon Childers, who was thirteen months sober at the time of the recording. He recounts, “When you’re consuming zealous amounts of a depressant everyday it’s easy to lose the light. I was bummed on everything, probably myself the most, and the party had been over for a long time.” The themes of addiction and confusion pop up in “Opening Band,” as Childers acknowledges his past with the lyrics: “Well I took on earthly pleasures / Til they stayed and staked their claim / And I’ve got a couple demons / That know me by my first name.”

Listen to “Opening Band” via “My life is much richer now than it YouTube: https://youtu.be/hnOhv- was. I’m present for the good mo6vXnoA ments, and there are plenty of them,” While singer Jonathon Childers deftly uses “Opening Band” as a multifaceted metaphor throughout the song, the phrase functions literally as well. Over the last three years the band has traversed the country, almost always as a support act, with artists like Benjamin Booker, The Wild Reeds, Black Joe Louis & The Honeybears, The Mountain Goats and many more. Late last year, the four piece band comprised of Grant Gustafson (guitar & vocals), Jonathon Childers (guitar

MAGNOLIA Genuwine Tasting Room

6503 FM 1488 #401 832-934-2675 www.mygenuwine.com

NORTH SPRING 19th Hole Grill & Bar

THE WOODLANDS Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion

2005 Lake Robbins, 281-210-1105 www.woodlandscenter.org The larget venue for live music in North Houston

TOMBALL Brautigams Bar & Grill

106 Market St, 832-698-4461 www.brautigamsbarngrill.com

Main Street Crossing

111 West Main St., 281-290-0431 www.mainstreetcrossing.com

WEST HOUSTON Shakespeare Pub

14129 Memorial Dr, (281) 497-4625 www.shakespearepub.net

DOWNTOWN HOUSTON Last Concert Cafe

1403 Nance St. (713) 226-8563 www.lastconcert.com

202 Sawdust Rd #118, 281-363-2574 www.19th.cc [$10 cover on all shows] Hard rock and metal bands Thursday through Saturday

THE HEIGHTS

Dosey Doe Big Barn

1031 E 24th St (832) 831-2553 www.danelectroshouston.com

25911 I-45 N., 281-367-3774 www.doseydoe.com Great dinner/music venue in a rebuilt barn

CYPRESS CREEK Acadia

3939 FM 1960 W., 281-893-2860 www.acadiabarandgrill.com

BFE Rock Club

11528 Jones Rd. (281) 894-1811 www.bferockclub.com

The Concert Pub North

2470 Cypress Creek Pkwy., 281-583-8111 www.theconcertpub.com Great cover band venue

asserts Childers.

OLD TOWN SPRING

After many years of traveling the country, the band is excited to finally release their debut album and hit the road once again, with tour dates to be announced for this fall.

Jailhouse Saloon

“We’ve become so comfortable with each other over the years that the risks are easier to take but even more exciting,” Zachry says of the band’s camaraderie. “We’re very focused on bringing out the drama in the music, finding the ups and downs and really sculpting them.”

4660 Louetta #100, 832-562-3942 www.thatonebar.com

310 Preston, Spring 281-288-0255 www.jailhousesaloontx.com

Dan Electros

Fitzgeralds

2705 White Oak Dr., www.fitzgeraldshouston.com Iconic Music Venue, Host to some of the worlds best touring bands

Rudyards

2010 Waugh Dr (713) 521-0521 www.rudyardspub.com Live local music - Public News recommended

McGonigel’s Mucky Duck

2425 Norfolk St (713) 528-5999 www.mcgonigels.com Live Music Nightly

KINGWOOD Tularosa Southwestern Grill

1522 Kingwood Dr (346) 616-5178 www.tularosa-swgrill.com Live Music Friday, Saturday and Sunday

Puffabellys

100 Main St, Spring 281-350-3376 www.puffabellys.com Best known for their open mic events weekly

SPRING Mak’s Place Sports Bar & Grill 5200 Louetta Rd., 832-698-1611 www.maksplacesportsbar.com

PUBLIC NEWS

JULY 26 - AUGUST 8, 2017

PUBLIC NEWS

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MARK’S MUSICAL MUSINGS

BOND: LE FEMME ORIGINAL STRING QUARTET by Mark Crampton

I first discovered the musical group Bond (billed as the ‘Original Electric String Quartet) http:// www.bondquartet.com/ when I was moonlighting as a store-setter for Barnes and Noble (just like it sounds, setting up and arranging new stores) – I worked on closing/ moving one store and opening two more, then stayed at the second store for about eight months (before I crossed swords one too many times with an inept new Music/DVD department manager!) I worked some in Science Fiction books, but primarily in Music/ DVDs, as those were my main interests and knowledge bases. B&N’s music department bins were organized by very BASIC music categories: Classical, Blues, Rock, Country, Movie Soundtracks, etc. - with LOTS of blank bin dividers AND a label-maker! So, I re-arranged the bins and sub-categorized these music varieties by many magnitudes. I mean, if they did NOT want me to do that, they should NOT have given me blank bin dividers and a labelmaker, right? If you have an artist who plays music that fits into two

different genres – then it makes sense to put his CDs in BOTH locations to ensure maximum customer notice, right? Bond had just released their second album ‘Shine’ in October 2002, and it came in categorized as “Classical”. The cover caught my attention, so I put it on the store sound system and listened to it (we were given an official playlist – the music system was located in the Music Department, obviously - but we often sneaked other discs into it). I LIKED Bond’s music on this album, so, I then sneaked their first album ‘Born’ – also categorized as “Classical” - into the store playlist too, and, doggone, I liked it as well! (Copies of both CDs are, of course, in my library.) Admit it, when someone says “Classical music”, you think of some sleep-inducing boredom-fest by, oh, the East Bucharest Philharmonic Orchestra (I first said Prague Philharmonic Orchestra – but it turns out, one of the ladies actually DID play with THEM!) or something like that, right? With a bunch of blue-noses and blue-hairs in tuxedos and cocktail dresses,

puffing on cigarillos and sipping martinis in the lobby during intermission, while sneering at the hoi-polloi in the streets outside? [NOTE: That reminds me of a humorous – or possibly not - experience of my own at a concert at Houston’s Jones Hall some years ago. Maybe fodder for a future article. Or just ask me about it.] So, as for the Classical music categorization - OK, I admit the instruments the girls play could be considered Classical in that sense – violin, viola and cello – and some of their music is by Classical composers – Vivaldi, Mozart, Strauss. Beethoven, Tchaikovsky. But they certainly are not MY idea of Classical music! You will not sleep through anything Bond plays! Now that I explained how I came to find Bond, here’s their background: Bond was a ‘created’ music group – much like the ‘60’s TV group The Monkees. In the late ‘90’s a partnership of two music producers and a promoter decided to assemble a string quartet specifically of international, talented AND gorgeous female musicians. (Don’t accuse ME of sexism – I’m PUBLIC NEWS

just reporting this story!) The stated idea of the promoters was that this music group would NOT be just about record profits, but would offer stylish – even glamorous - role models that young musicians interested in playing Classical music and instruments could identify with, while down-playing the “high-brow snobbery” too often associated with Classical music. A world-wide talent search ensued, and eventually Haylie Ecker (first violin, Australia), Tania Davis (viola, Australia), Eos Counsell (second violin, Wales) and GayYee Westerhoff (Cello, England) were carefully chosen. The four special ladies were indeed beautiful, as specified, but each was also a superlative and successful musician in her own right! All were alumnae of top music schools such as London’s Royal College of Music, London’s Trinity College, London’s Royal Academy of Music, the Guildhall and Trinity College of Music, the Sydney Conservatorium, et al. They have all played individually with various international ChamJULY 26 - AUGUST 8, 2017

MARK’S MUSICAL MUSINGS

ber Groups, Symphonies and Orchestras, as well as numerous other musicians on all varieties. They each were also music composers, arrangers and producers in their own right, both before and during their tenure in Bond. Once Hailie, Tania, Eos and GayYee were assembled together in the studio, four preliminary music recordings were made, which immediately led to a multi-album contract with Decca Studios. Three of these recordings were the backbone of their first album ‘Born’ in October 2000: “Duel” https://youtu. be/eVUi7VWFO84 ; “1812” https://youtu.be/HfgtyFHXplc ; and “Dalalai” https://youtu.be /9Hb9rALEG70?list=RD9Hb9 rALEG70. The fourth recording “Victory” https://youtu. be/6zE558K3Xo8 was released as their first single. Bond was presented to the world in a lavish musical showcase – a live concert (with backing rock band, chamber orchestra and dancers) at London’s Royal Albert Hall in September 2000 - featuring, of course, the music from their 22

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soon-to-be-released first album ‘Born’. (Filmed, and released on DVD a year later. Yes, of course it’s in my library!) https://youtu.be/ PfEWKwsagkI Unfortunately, Bond’s first concert was NOT well received by London’s ‘Ton’ (High Society) or Music Critics – the shortest cut was: “Victoria’s Secret models with violins” and the most scathing: “Say what you will about the liberties the bond string quartet takes with a piece of classical music, you can’t fault its sexually charged performances for being off key. Off color, yes. A bond concert is a melodic lap dance: the four sylphs do energetic things with their orchestral instruments, not to mention their hips, that would compel Stradivari to order an exorcism. One does not learn to straddle a cello that way at a conservatory.” [NOTE: Because of 007 franchise trademark issues, when they first appeared the girls had to be billed as either “bond” or “BOND”, not “Bond”. This restriction has since become moot – just like coke and xerox, apparently 007 was NOT successful in trademarking his PUBLIC NEWS

name!] After their maiden performance was panned, Bond’s first album was in turn firmly snubbed (banned, in fact) from the UK Classical charts because it wasn’t “Classical” enough! So Bond left England, and introduced (primarily) Asia and the world to their “Crossover Classical Instrumental” music – Classical music with heavy influences from pop, electronica, folk, jazz, Indian, Latin, Middle-Eastern – where they immediately hit #1 on Classical charts everywhere EXCEPT England! To date, Bond has achieved 15 Gold and 59 Platinum records, with well over 4 million discs sold! In their earlier videos, the girls play traditional wood instruments - and still do, on occasion – but later, in Japan, Yamaha Musical Instruments technicians designed, specifically for each girl in the quartet, her own space-age electronic computerized marvel of a musical instrument – violins for Haylie and Eos, a viola for Tania and a cello for Gay-Yee. (And later, another viola for Elspeth when

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she joined Bond, and another violin for Tania when she changed instruments). Not the first electrified “Classical” instruments, by far, but at that time the most advanced! Futuristic-appearing electric string instruments are not that rare (a Tucker Barrett green acrylic electric violin even appeared in the ’97 Sci-Fi War movie “Starship Troopers”) but Bond’s prototype Yamahas are still one-ofa-kind instruments! In the years since that first unsuccessful concert, Bond has NEVER stopped: touring for live concerts and shows, filming commercials and TV shows and award ceremonies, shooting music videos, making movie appearances, and releasing six more albums, although their main efforts have continued mostly outside of England itself. They composed, played and appeared in early 2000’s advertising campaigns for the Marshal Field’s Department Store chain and for Daiichi Kosho (apparently the largest Japanese karaoke manufacturer – they also build airplanes!). Bond played at the 2003 Miss Universe Pageant in Panama City,

MARK’S MUSICAL MUSINGS

Panama https://youtu.be/OkbJUgn6ZlA. For the movie 2003 “Johnny English” soundtrack, Bond played a variation of “Kismet” composed by Gay-Yee, and also made their virgin movie appearance – playing themselves in a cameo! https:// youtu.be/tNR_fAQCxUk In the 2005 movie “XXX: State of the Union” Bond also again played themselves in another – uncredited - cameo - and their music is not on the soundtrack. https://youtu.be/ vcxYNkFYOSs In August 2008 Bond appeared on the Australian version of “Dancing With the Stars” https:// youtu.be/tmuW-XpO2kM playing the opening number, then for two of the contestants. This was the last appearance of Haylie with Bond (she moved to Hong Kong to start a family), to be replaced by Elspeth Hanson (English). Elspeth plays the viola and is just as musically talented and experienced as the original members. When Elspeth joined, Tania changed from viola to first violin. All four band members composed, arranged, played and

appeared in an entire publicity campaign for the 2009 release for the Peugeot 308CC automobile, variations on Vivaldi’s “Four Seasons”. All four tracks can still be downloaded free from Peugeot’s website, and ‘Summer’ and ‘Winter’ https://youtu.be/8rFth5EsPuQ were included on their 2011 ‘Play’ album. On the 2011 ‘Play’ album https:// youtu.be/NsUl9TtvGJQ, ‘Diablo’ https://youtu.be/NirRMrpbCFQ became their first piece with vocals, featuring Eos vocalizing as well as playing. ‘Play’ also features their arrangement of the song ‘Jai Ho’ from the 2008 movie Slumdog Millionaire – and presented the film’s producer and composer A. R. Rahman on vocals (I’m sorry, I can’t help thinking of the Pussycat Dolls version – ALSO featuring A.R. Rahman on vocals). Gay-Yee also composed the Russian-influenced song ‘Beatroot’ https://youtu.be/gjK5911cWXI , which added a clarinet to their string quartet. In 2011, Bond recorded – for Japanese release only – a medly of Lady Gaga hits. https://youtu. be/KpmTHkFWekQ (OK, I guess

everyone has done something they regret!) Bond performed in the London Olympic Stadium at the 2012 Olympics Closing Ceremony https://youtu.be/D54Nv2wzqTY . (Unfortunately playing second fiddle – as it were – to the controversial – and VERY bad singer - Russel Brand – if only they could have booted him and featured Bond alone!) Well, I could go for several more pages with Bond’s appearances and accomplishments – but it all comes back to their music! Bond developed and exemplifies “Classical Crossover” music and style. Just the number of (mostly all-girl) groups following their lead – Amadeus from Romania (I really like them, too!); Escela from the UK (who use the same Yamaha instruments Bond does); Garcia from Hungary; the Electric Ladies from Lithuania; Kroma Quartet from LA (they bill themselves the first all-girl all-black string quartet); Fantasticoh! and Asturia Girls from Ukraine; Wonder Strings from Serbia; BaRock String Quartet from Venice; Phat Strad from PUBLIC NEWS

Las Vegas; The Lady Godivas from London (no, they don’t play naked!) – the list goes on. Oh, let’s not forget a group I did an earlier article about, 2 Cellos from Serbia – even though they’re both guys - and Apocalyptica from Finland – honest, I don’t know if a couple of them are guys or girls! – but, anyway, they’re also Classical crossover groups. Want to listen to something different than the odds and ends and rubbish available on Houston radio stations? So, try some Crossover Classical music – and maybe Bond in particular - and give them a listen. [NOTE: And, again, please give a response to my Editor/Publisher and me – we are attention junkies, we want and need to know that you’re out there!]

JULY 26 - AUGUST 8, 2017

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FOODIES

CLAUDIA CASTILLO OWNS CILANTRO’S COCINA ON CYPRESS CREEK PARKWAY by Matt Vernon

became more confident, they moved her Mexican food. I know when I support a someone’s dream and that makes me just to bartender and then cashier. It was that small family business I am supporting as happy as the strong drinks! position that she learned she was great Some of us learn to dream later in life. Claudia Castillo was born in war torn at sales. As her confidence grew so did FOODIE PIC OF THE WEEK her title. She was promoted to assistant El Salvador. As a kid, it is hard to have manager, then general manager. In 2000, big dreams when your country is in turmoil and is unsafe to live. Claudia did she was promoted to marketing director receive an Associates in journalism and for the entire company. In 2003, The company she dedicated worked for her local radio station before almost a decade of her life with filed for chasing the American dream. She said Chapter 11 bankruptcy and closed all there was no future there for her or for their locations. so many others. She tells me she loves That’s when Claudia and her husband writing stories about people, the chalstarted dreaming big! They rented the lenges they face and the obstacles they location and spent several months can overcome. What a coincidence! Hers changing the name and working on new is that kind of story! recipes. They maxed their credit cards Claudia moved to Texas in 1993 and doing a complete remodel and renovawent to the university to learn to speak English. In 1994 she started working as a tion and brought on a new staff. Claudia bus girl in a French restaurant and began finally opened her own restaurant with practicing her English there. In 1995 she her own brand. She takes care of every guest and treats them like family. She has got a job at Marco’s on 1960. It was her second job in The States and at the same a commitment to quality and total guest location she would wind up taking over satisfaction. Her restaurant name became popular as an owner 9 short years later. and a few years later, her husband and She told me her incredible story of some partners took on the name and resilience and passion. She moved here spread the brand. The food is top notch without knowing the language and as and the service is superb. However, Claushe became familiar with it she loved You’ve been picked! talking to others. She loved engaging her dia’s store, the original, remains family run and is filed as a different corporation customers and loved building relationCassandra Kara Abercrombie Schultz than the others. I have enjoyed supportships. She started at Marco’s Mexican Lamb Poutine restaurant as a hostess, writing the daily ing Claudia and her wonderful restaurant Craft Burger Deacon Baldy’s Bar and Food Truck Park for many years now. I have also enjoyed script on her hand of what to say to The Woodlands/Spring area, Tx. Foodie Club guests that entered the restaurant. As she her delicious margaritas and home-made 25 PUBLIC NEWS JULY 26 - AUGUST 8, 2017

continued from page 4

THEATER

Green Day’s Rock Musical AMERICAN IDIOT Hits the Zilkha Stage at TUTS in September Houston - Theatre Under The Stars’ (TUTS) Humphreys School of Musical Theatre (HSMT) presents the talented, young cast of AMERICAN IDIOT, which runs September 15-16 in Zilkha Hall at the Hobby Center for the Performing Arts.

Marmolejo as Theo, Paco Medina as Will, Emily Mesa as Alysha, Cameron Mills as Johnny, Zac Molegraaf as Joshua, Andrew Ricks as Chase and Courtney Schmitt as Heather. Rounding out the cast in the ensemble is Andrew Burke, Abriel Coleman, Bryce Cooper, Morgan Dallison, Ella The stellar cast tells the story of DuCharme, Chase Fontenot, Reed Johnny, Tunny, and Will who are Gallagher, Rachel Goodwin, Katelyn struggling to find meaning in a postKapocsi, Anneliese Kelly, Brendan 9/11 world. When they leave the King, Mikayla Lillibridge, Kelly Loconstraints of their hometown for the monte, Molly Masson, Mia Munn, Gia thrills of city life, their paths quickly Ochsenbein, Aidan O’Donnell, Molly diverge as Tunny enters the armed Oubre, Carlie Sachs, Drew Shaffer, forces, Will is called back home to Estus Stephens, Elizabeth Tietz, Abattend to familial responsibilities, and bey Vollman, Madyson Walker, and Johnny’s attention becomes divided by Carson Zoch. a seductive love interest and a hazardous new friendship. Dave Clemmons, Dean and Director of Education for TUTS’ Humphreys The story of the two-time TonySchool of Musical Theatre, is directAward-winning production is fueled ing the production, Abbey O’Brien by music from Green Day’s American is choreographing, and Sean Ramos Idiot and 21st Century Breakdown will serve as the Music Director albums. All music for AMERICAN for the production. The rest of the IDIOT was composed by Green Day. creative team includes Adam Spencer Billie Joe Armstrong wrote the lyrics, as Scenic Designer, Colleen Grady and co-wrote - along with Michael as Costume Designer, Mark Grady Mayer - the book for the musical. as Lighting Designer, and Andrew Harper as Sound Designer. Starring in the production are Noah Carlin as Tunny, Jessica Helgerud as Tickets for AMERICAN IDIOT are St. Jimmy, Samantha Lank as Leslie, available for purchase at TUTS.com or Alexa Magro as Whatsername, Miles through the TUTS Box Office at 713558-TUTS (8887).

JULY 26 - AUGUST 8, 2017

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development. Books that will increase your worth fit in this category. If you want to make more, you must become more. It’s quite sad to go to a fast food joint, pay in cash and your change is not counted back to you. McDonalds, Subway, Sonic, Popeye’s and many others are guilty of this. How do you not know you are being short changed? I did. I demand that my change is counted back to me. Especially after being short changed at a McDonalds Drive Through. Even my calls to the Kades Corporation, the owners of over 28 McDonald’s locations, regarding their employee’s lack of professionalism have not been returned. I guess Kenneth and Mady Kade don’t really care about their customers nor their own employees. This is sad especially when you consider these multi-millionaires depend on government social programs to provide for their employees when they should be doing those themselves. I pity them as I know that they are going to eventually reap what they have sown.

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FILM CAPSULES

FILMS COMING SOON Dunkirk PG-13 106 min Action | Drama | History | War In May 1940, Germany advanced into France, trapping Allied troops on the beaches of Dunkirk. Under air and ground cover from British and French forces, troops were slowly and methodically evacuated from the beach using every serviceable naval and civilian vessel that could be found. At the end of this heroic mission, 330,000 French, British, Belgian and Dutch soldiers were safely evacuated. Director: Christopher Nolan Stars: Fionn Whitehead, Kenneth Branagh, Mark Rylance, Tom Hardy Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets PG-13 137 min Action | Adventure | Sci-Fi In the 28th century, special operatives Valerian (Dane DeHaan) and Laureline work together to maintain order throughout the human territories. Under assignment from the minister of defense, the duo embarks

on a mission to Alpha, an ever-expanding metropolis where diverse species gather to share knowledge and culture. When a dark force threatens the peaceful city, Valerian and Laureline must race against time to identify the menace that also jeopardizes the future of the universe. Director: Luc Besson Stars: Dane DeHaan, Cara Delevingne, Clive Owen, Elizabeth Debicki Girls Trip R 122 min Comedy Best friends Ryan, Sasha, Lisa and Dina are in for the adventure of a lifetime when they travel to New Orleans for the annual Essence Festival. Along the way, they rekindle their sisterhood and rediscover their wild side by doing enough dancing, drinking, brawling and romancing to make the Big Easy blush.. Director: Malcolm D. Lee Stars: Regina Hall, Queen Latifah, Jada Pinkett Smith, Tiffany Haddish

CURRENTLY SHOWING Wonder Woman PG-13 141 min Action | Adventure | Fantasy | Sci-Fi Before she was Wonder Woman she was Diana, princess of the Amazons, trained warrior. When a pilot crashes and tells of conflict in the outside world, she leaves home to fight a war to end all wars, discovering her full powers and true destiny. Director: Patty Jenkins Stars: Gal Gadot, Chris Pine, Robin Wright, Lucy Davis

Megan Leavey PG-13 116 min Biography | Drama | War Based on the true life story of a young Marine corporal whose unique discipline and bond with her military combat dog saved many lives during their deployment in Iraq. Director: Gabriela Cowperthwaite Stars: Kate Mara, Bradley Whitford, Geraldine James, Tom Felton It Comes at Night Captain Underpants: The First Epic Movie 97 min PG 89 min Horror | Mystery Animation | Action | Comedy | Family Secure within a desolate home as an unnatuTwo overly imaginative pranksters named ral threat terrorizes the world, the tenuous George and Harold, hypnotize their principal order a man (Joel Edgerton) has established into thinking he’s a ridiculously enthusiaswith his wife and son is put to the ultimate tic, incredibly dimwitted superhero named test with the arrival of a desperate family Captain Underpants. seeking refuge. Despite the best intentions Director: David Soren of both families, paranoia and mistrust boil Stars: Kevin Hart, Thomas Middleditch, Ed over as the horrors outside creep ever-closer, Helms, Nick Kroll awakening something hidden and mon strous within the man as he learns that the The Mummy protection of his family comes at the cost of PG-13 110 min his soul. Action | Adventure | Fantasy | Horror Director: Trey Edward Shults An ancient princess is awakened from her Stars: Joel Edgerton, Christopher Abbott, crypt beneath the desert, bringing with her Carmen Ejogo, Riley Keough malevolence grown over millennia, and ter- rors that defy human comprehension. The Hero Director: Alex Kurtzman R 93 min Stars: Tom Cruise, Sofia Boutella, Annabelle Comedy | Drama Wallis, Russell Crowe Lee Hayden is a Western icon with a golden

The Emoji Movie PG 86 min Animation | Adventure | Comedy | Family Hidden inside a smartphone, the bustling city of Textopolis is home to all emojis. Each emoji has only one facial expression, except for Gene, an exuberant emoji with multiple expressions. Determined to become “normal” like the other emojis, Gene enlists the help of his best friend Hi-5 and a notorious code breaker called Jailbreak. During their travels through the other apps, the three emojis discover a great danger that could threaten their phone’s very existence. Director: Tony Leondis Stars: T.J. Miller, James Corden, Anna Faris, Maya Rudolph Atomic Blonde R 115 min Action | Mystery | Thriller Agent Lorraine Broughton (Charlize Theron) is equal parts spycraft, sensuality and savagery, willing to deploy any of her skills to stay alive on an impossible mission.

Sent alone into Berlin to retrieve a priceless dossier from within the destabilized city, she partners with embedded station chief David Percival (James McAvoy) to navigate her way through a deadly game of spies. Director: David Leitch Stars: Sofia Boutella, Charlize Theron, James McAvoy, Bill Skarsgård

voice, but his best performances are decades behind him. He spends his days reliving old glories and smoking too much weed with his former co-star-turned-dealer, Jeremy, until a surprise cancer diagnosis brings his priorities into sharp focus. He soon strikes up an exciting, contentious relationship with stand-up comic Charlotte, and he attempts to reconnect with his estranged daughter, Lucy, all while searching for one final role to cement his legacy. Director: Brett Haley Stars: Laura Prepon, Krysten Ritter, Nick Offerman, Sam Elliott

with three of her college friends for a wild bachelorette weekend in Miami. The night of hard partying soon takes a hilariously dark turn when a male stripper accidentally dies at their beach house. Amid the craziness of trying to cover it up, the women ultimately find themselves becoming closer when it matters most. Director: Lucia Aniello Stars: Scarlett Johansson, Zoë Kravitz, Kate McKinnon, Demi Moore

Cars 3 G 109 min Animation | Adventure | Comedy | Family Blindsided by a new generation of blazingfast cars, the legendary Lighting McQueen finds himself pushed out of the sport that he loves. Hoping to get back in the game, he turns to Cruz Ramirez, an eager young technician who has her own plans for winning. With inspiration from the Fabulous Hudson Hornet and a few unexpected turns, No. 95 prepares to compete on Piston Cup Racing’s biggest stage. Director: Brian Fee Stars: Owen Wilson, Cristela Alonzo, Chris Cooper, Nathan Fillion Rough Night Comedy Jess is an engaged politician who reunites

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The Dark Tower 95 min Action | Adventure | Sci-Fi | Western Roland Deschain (Idris Elba), the last Gunslinger, is locked in an eternal battle with Walter O’Dim (Matthew McConaughey), also known as the Man in Black. The Gunslinger must prevent the Man in Black from toppling the Dark Tower, the key that holds the universe together. With the fate of worlds at stake, two men collide in the ultimate battle between good and evil. Director: Nikolaj Arcel Stars: Katheryn Winnick, Idris Elba, Matthew McConaughey, Jackie Earle Haley

Spider-Man: Homecoming PG-13 133 min Action | Adventure | Sci-Fi Peter Parker, with the help of his mentor Tony Stark, tries to balance his life as an ordinary high school student in New York City while fighting crime as his superhero alter ego Spider-Man when a new threat emerges. Director: Jon Watts Stars: Tom Holland, Michael Keaton, Robert Downey Jr., Marisa Tomei A Ghost Story R 92 min Drama | Fantasy | Romance In this singular exploration of legacy, love, loss, and the enormity of existence, a recently deceased, white-sheeted ghost returns to his suburban home to try to reconnect with his bereft wife.

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War for the Planet of the Apes PG-13 140 min Action | Adventure | Drama | Sci-Fi Caesar (Andy Serkis) and his apes are forced into a deadly conflict with an army of humans led by a ruthless colonel (Woody Harrelson). After the apes suffer unimaginable losses, Caesar wrestles with his darker instincts and begins his own mythic quest to avenge his kind. As the journey finally brings them face to face, Caesar and the colonel are pitted against each other in an epic battle that will determine the fate of both of their species and the future of the planet. Director: Matt Reeves Stars: Andy Serkis, Woody Harrelson, Steve Zahn, Karin Konoval Wish Upon PG-13 90 min Fantasy | Horror | Thriller Jonathan Shannon (Ryan Phillippe) gives his 17-year-old daughter Clare (Joey King)

an old music box that promises to grant its owner seven wishes. Skeptical at first, Clare becomes seduced by its dark powers when her life starts to radically improve with each wish. Everything seems perfect until she realizes that every wish she makes causes the people who are closest to her to die in violent and elaborate ways. Director: John R. Leonetti Stars: Joey King, Ryan Phillippe, Ki Hong Lee, Mitchell Slaggert The Big Sick R 120 min Comedy | Romance Kumail is a Pakistani comic who meets an American graduate student named Emily at one of his stand-up shows. As their relationship blossoms, he soon becomes worried about what his traditional Muslim parents will think of her. When Emily suddenly comes down with an illness that leaves her in a coma, Kumail finds himself developing a bond with her deeply concerned mother and father. Director: Michael Showalter Stars: Kumail Nanjiani, Zoe Kazan, Holly Hunter, Ray Romano

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