Musicians Play To a Packed Crowd at First Friday Open Mic at Vida e Caffe

By Laura Stennerson

(On the eve of this piece going to press, we are two days away from another Open Mic night at CopperMine Cafe over in Miami, so put it on your calendars!)

Have you ever had one of those days where you just couldn’t keep the smile of your face? I had a day like that on Friday, from the time I woke up to the time I went to bed, I smiled. I know this smile had a lot to do with a severe lack of sleep, the fact the students didn’t vote me off the island yet, the dawning of Spring break, and Open Mic Night at Vida e Caffe. I first stopped off at another establishment to see friends that I have solely neglected and then, with smile in place went to Vida.

As I was navigating through tracks and traffic, having only been able to find a parking place in front of the Silver Belt, I hear,  “Mrs. Stennerson! You Missed our act”.  Oh no. I was late again. I missed Brandon Buchanan, Josh Dobbs, and Michael Cook. I said my apologies, but all was not lost. Thanks to the miracle of technology I was able to watch the video tape of their performance. They played their own version of the famous Eagle’s song, “Hotel California”, but with a twist. They played “Hotel Arizona”. So before I even made it to the door I watched my first act. What a great life!

With a chuckle, and that crazy smile on my face I walked in to Vida. Packed again! The place was buzzing with energy, music, conversation, and the omnipresent buzz of the espresso machine. As I settled in, which was tricky due to the sheer number of people, I saw familiar faces and new faces. As I stayed put for a few minutes, as I watched my second favorite man in black, David Haynes. I hear he has a new guitar to play to us now as he sings those ballads. Nice David! Earl Knoob played next, as I was wandering around again, he did a favorite Bob Dylan. Brought those old memories back. Thank you Earl. … Continue Reading

Spring Break Fever

By: Laura Stennerson

I could hardly remember my user name for News and Views. I think it’s been at least four weeks since I have posted. That is how long it has been since I have written anything but comments, lesson plans, and a few random poems. Yes, I have found a paying gig. I have stepped up to join the ranks of the working poor. But luckily, I have found; creative minds, a piece of native silver in the wash, and a $1,000,000,000 bill on the sidewalk in downtown Phoenix. My family couldn’t believe my luck. My children all wanted to know who this Richard Nixon was, and how did he get his face on a million dollar bill?  They were happy to know we were richer today than we were yesterday. It is good to be lucky. … Continue Reading