Before I get started with this weekend's events, I want to spotlight a fundraiser for someone who has tried to keep entertainment in East Texas alive.
Connie Voss, best known as the owner and proprietor of Connie's Club, on U.S. 69 south, was recently diagnosed with terminal cancer and her friends are rallying to support her.
On Saturday, the "Make a Dream Come True" fundraiser will be held at Wild Willie's, on North Timberland Drive in Lufkin, featuring food, entertainment and an auction. Funds from the event will go to Connie Voss and her fight against cancer.
Connie's Club has long been an nighttime institution in the Lufkin and Huntington areas and it's an opportunity to give back for all she's done for the night life in East Texas.
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This Saturday in downtown Lufkin The Pines Theater will officially be lighted, featuring live music, culinary exhibitions, an auction and words from the mayor.
"Art Lights Up the Pines" is the name of the event which runs in conjunction with the First Street Arts Center. The arts center will have food and refreshments from Manhattan's restaurant with the purchase of a ticket for $40. The fun kicks off at 6 p.m. in downtown.
Also on Saturday in Lufkin, the Museum of East Texas is hosting "The Great Pumpkin Party," in front of the museum from 1 to 3 p.m. on Second Street. The event is a fun chance for kids to dress up and pick out their favorite pumpkin to decorate for Halloween.
Mary Anne Weber, education director from the Houston Audubon Society, will be on hand to teach about John James Audubon and his fascination with birds, in conjunction with the Audubon exhibit that runs at the MET through January.
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Sunday night hard-rockers Tantric come to the Wild Horse Saloon, on North Timberland Drive in Lufkin. The band, originally from Louisville, has released four records since breaking out in 2001 with "Breakdown." The band is out supporting the release of their new album, "Mind Control." Atom Smash and Soul Stash will both open up the show which kicks off at 9 p.m.
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On Wednesday, comedian Mike McRae comes to Hotel Fredonia, in downtown Nacogdoches. The event features live comedy, food and drinks beginning at 7 p.m. Tickets are $10 at the door. McRae has been on several comedy shows including the David Letterman Show, Frank TV and Comedy Central.
McRae moved to Houston in 1995 where he started performing standup at local college events. After school he started performing at the Houston Laff Stop and soon developed his trademark combination of social and cultural commentary with unique impressions, a press release stated.
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It's going to be a fun weekend full of stuff to do. Hope to see you guys out and about if it ever stops raining, I'm going to be moving into a new apartment Saturday, but definitely look for me at the Tantric show, I haven't seen those guys since I was in college. As always, if you don't see your event listed on this page, e-mail us the details and we'll get it posted.
