myScoper.com :: the blog

myScoper.com is NEW and improved!

2008-09-12T18:30:00.002-04:00

Now you don't need to go to a separate blog to get your latest event news and weekly HOT picks for SWVA, just go directly to myScoper.com for the region's most comprehensive online calendar plus the latest in event previews, reviews, photos, video, discussion and yes, many more fantastic contests for tickets, weekly HOT picks and more! Enjoy!

And a big thanks to blogger for providing us with a fantastic blog platform for the past year!

Your weekly E-vents Served up by yours truly...

2008-08-12T12:16:00.000-04:00

Hi Folks! Okay, we know, we've been slackin' on the Mondays! But don't worry because today is Tuesday and there's plenty to do the rest of the week. Check it out...

TONIGHT ::
It IS easy being green... Big Lick-Green Drinks is still going strong at All Sports in Salem, VA so if you love livin' green and want to surround yourself with likeminded peeps then here's a chance for you local "greenies" in the Roanoke Valley to get socialized!

WEDNESDAY ::
Blue 5 in downtown Roanoke hosts their monthly Blue Ridge Blues Society Jam just in time to get you past the mid-week doldrums. This unique monthly event is fun, laid back, and one you don't want to miss! So grab your friends and a brew and get the blues!

THURSDAY ::
Walking Work of Art, the new tattoo shop on Campbell Ave in Roanoke, is offering anyone who mentions myScoper.com 20% OFF a brand spankin' new tattoo all day today (and Fri/Sat). So if you've been contemplating the awesomeness of body art, it's now or never! Hey, we've got an idea... myScoper's eyeball would make one fantastic tattoo! YES!

FRIDAY ::
The legendary STYX is performing at the newest and coolest concert series on Smith Mountain Lake. Just outside of Mariners Landing Resort the show is set in an exciting new festival style arena so be sure to bring a lawn chair or blanket! And if you want to make a weekend of it... you can stay at one of the super nice condos just down the street and right on the water at The Pointe at Mariners plus you can catch the Saturday night concert with Lonestar! You need a vacation right? Click here for more info and tix!

SATURDAY ::
This one's for anyone young and young at heart. Center in the Square in downtown Roanoke turned 25 this year and to celebrate they're hosting a family fun extravaganza all day Saturday and Sunday. Everything in the center (including all the museums) is FREE and open both days plus the market square is going to be loaded up with fantasy face painting, moonwalks, clowns, balloons and more! A kid's dream come true, who doesn't love a moonwalk?!

SUNDAY ::
The Blue Ridge Jazz Ensemble makes an appearance at Rockfish Food & Wine on Grandin Road in Roanoke. The show is only $5 and the food is superb. We especially love the black bean hummus! Yummus! Reservations are recommended so call early!

And just remember... YOUR WEEK IN EVENTS IS WAITING! So get out there and [heart] your community!

Your Friends at
myScoper.com

One Day Late but Worth the Wait...

2008-08-05T10:43:00.002-04:00

Hi Folks! Okay, yesterday was a Monday! But don't worry because today isn't and there's plenty to do the rest of the week. Check it out...

TONIGHT ::
Its a special month for the Emerging Artist Program at the Main Roanoke Library. They have not one BUT two fantastic events starting tonight with the BOE Showcase, a Roanoke collective of hip hop, RnB, and breakdancing artists called Blackout Entertainment. DJ DickiE, Receptors, and Aaron Parker (of Red Clay River) will be providing music and Maggie Moos will provide yummy treats and its all completely and totally and wonderfully FREE! Starts at 6pm! (See Thursday for their second stellar event this week)

WEDNESDAY ::
If you haven't already checked it out and you're in the mood for a little road trip, head on down to Galax for the Old Fiddler's Convention in its 73rd year and already in full swing for 2008 until Saturday. Tickets range from $6 to $12 each day for some of the best mountain music around!

THURSDAY ::
Another fantastic opening from the Emerging Artist Series as promised. Kate Abarbanel presents "How to Draw a Blog" utilizing her multi-genre creativity, this actual reality blog interacts with her own personal blog, resulting in song, dance, film, photography & performance. Live music from Receptors and slow food provided. Starts at 6pm at the Main Library Downtown and of course, its fantastically FREE!

FRIDAY ::
How about a Night Under The Stars? Amrhein Wine Cellars is offering just that every Friday in August. For $35 you and your squeeze can spend an evening at the winery with dinner for 2 and a bottle of wine. Who says romance can't be affordable!?

SATURDAY ::
Looks like its a food, wine, and fabulous libations kind of weekend. There are two options today depending on your vice of choice. For the wine lovers, there's the Black Dog Wine and Jazz Festival at Chateau Morrisette with everything from fine wine to american roots music and latin jazz. Then for the beer drinkers, there's the much loved annual Microfestivus at Elmwood Park in Roanoke. Now in its 11th year, you can sample from over 50 beers (well we don't recommend you actually sample that many, that would be bad) from over 20 microbreweries in the Mid-Atlantic.

SUNDAY ::
Did you know that the Science Museum at Center in the Square is open on Sundays? What better way to spend a Sunday afternoon. Now showing in the MegaDome: "Africa: The Serengeti" Narrator, James Earl Jones takes viewers on a journey with more than 1.5 million animals as they travel 500 miles across the plains of the Serengeti. Fantastic and Amazing, show is at 2:15pm on Sunday afternoon.

And just remember... YOUR WEEK IN EVENTS IS WAITING! So get out there and [heart] your community!

Your Friends at
myScoper.com

B.B. King's Blues Band blew the roof off the Roanoke Performing Arts Center Tuesday night.

2008-07-30T08:43:00.003-04:00

by Misty A. Sweet

B.B. King's Blues Band blew the roof off the Roanoke Performing Arts Center Tuesday night. And that was just the seven-piece band's two-song intro before King took the stage.

At 82 years old B.B. King, in his three-piece suit and black patten leather shoes, is the consummate entertainer. He preceded each song with a story and told as many stories as he sang songs. Jokes about talking slow because he is from Mississippi, aging and likes to intermingle his Viagra, Levitra and Cialis prescriptions were intermixed with serious statements like still missing his father twenty years after his death.

King introduced "Blues Man" by saying he wanted us to know where he'd come from. He grew up on a farm on the Mississippi Delta. He talked of plowing fields with Big Ben and Big Red, the two mules, one of which apparently had gas. Of not seeing electric lights in a house until he was sixteen. Of watching women from the drugstore window in his hometown where the railroad tracks separated the two streets and the two races. These stories were not bitter just a bit of his history.

King seemed to enjoy the nearly two hours he spent on stage however he radiated most as he played his guitar Lucile while belting out fan favorites like "I Need You So," "When Love Comes to Town," "The Thrill is Gone" and "Rock Me Baby". Whenever he could, King encouraged the audience in call and response. The slightly rowdy audience (one beer bottle rolled so loudly on the floor even King raised his eyebrows and made a crack) responded not only by singing, talking back (one woman shouted that she had been a fan since 1958) but also with repeated standing ovations.

If you missed B.B. King show Tuesday night it is worth a road-trip to hear the blues legend. He plays about 250 shows a year. See one soon. bbking.com/events

Conquer summertime boredom now! The myScoper.com way!

2008-07-28T15:22:00.002-04:00

It's summertime, and you're bored!?! We don't think so! Check out what's happenin' in your 'hood this week!

MONDAY ::
What's America's favorite pastime? Baseball of course! And lucky for you the Salem Avalanche are taking on the Frederick Keys tonight on their home turf. Go show support for your local team and grab a hot dog and a pretzel for the full experience! Need more info? Click here!

TUESDAY ::
BB King takes the stage Tuesday night at the Roanoke Performing Arts Theatre and tickets are still available. Named the third-greatest guitarist of "the 100 greatest guitarists of all-time" by Rolling Stone magazine, King is one of the greatest and most respected blues musicians of all time. So click now for pricing and info so you don't miss your opportunity to see this legend in action.

WEDNESDAY ::
Who doesn't love the smell of freshly baked bread and homemade jam in the summertime? Now you can learn how to make your own at Foodies' Hot Bread & Jam Cooking Class. Learn how to make your own yeast rolls and delicious peach jam, a perfect present for friends or just to enjoy all to yourself! For more information, click here.

THURSDAY ::
It's LADIES night everywhere (we're talking 202, Metro, and more), so girls listen up, tonight's your night to get out with your girlfriends, and if you're hitched, no worries, its Guys Night at Blues BBQ, where we're sure your man will be more than content with the half priced apps and abundant beer specials. Plus Metro has half priced sushi from 6 to 7pm for everyone! Yummy!

FRIDAY ::
It's that time of year again, The Virginia Mountain Peach Festival is back in SunTrust plaza and with this year's Superb Peach crop in Virginia, it should be better than ever! If you work downtown, go grab a milkshake on your lunch break or head over on Saturday too for some fantastic peach cobbler!

Also on Friday, Blackburg's annual Steppin Out is the quintessential 2-day street fest to get your festival on from 10am - 10pm as well as all day Saturday. The village center will definitely be a-buzz with pedestrians imbibing in craft vendors, sidewalk sales, festival foods (yummy), and three stages of live entertainment with national and regional acts from bluegrass to bhangrass, acoustic work, and local talent. If traveling from Roanoke, save gas and take the Smartway Bus. For more info and schedule, Smartwaybus.com

SATURDAY ::
DRI has cooked up another fantastic and FREE concert! If you're a country music fan then there's no excuse not to check out Carolina Rain with special guests Lisa Dames and Matt Ramsey performing live in front of the Market building downtown. Its guaranteed to be a crowd pleasing, two-steppin good time! And heck, can we mention again... it's FREE! Click here for the full details.

SUNDAY ::
Wine and Cider and Mead Oh My! No really, that's the name of the event! Sounds fun, huh? We think so... Château Morrisette, Villa Appalachia, Blacksnake Meadery, AmRhein Wine Cellars, and Foggy Ridge Cider have teamed up to present a food and drink extravaganza or more generally known as a progressive pairing. You may travel with a handy map to each site for selected food and beverage pairings enhanced by expert advice on flavor combinations. Find our more and how to purchase tix right here!

And just remember... YOUR WEEK IN EVENTS IS WAITING! So get out there and [heart] your community!

Your Friends at
myScoper.com

Tonight 07/24/08 at The Water Heater!

2008-07-24T14:41:00.001-04:00

Opening Reception :: Circumstantial Evidence :: a video installation by Misty Sweet Circumstantial evidence: a collection of facts that, when considered together, can be used to infer a conclusion about something unknown.

5-7pm!

Light Snacks and Beverages!

The Water Heater
813 5th Street SW
Roanoke, VA 24016

myScoper.com [hearts] FloydFest! A Look at June 24-27, 2008

2008-07-23T17:41:00.002-04:00

As promised, FloydFest is on myScoper.com!
Here are some highlights that you don't want to miss this weekend!

THURSDAY ::
Donna the Buffalo, a FloydFest favorite, returns as the Thursday night headliner on the Dreaming Creek Main Stage. Funky and danceable with a message of tribal philosophy and celebration, Donna the Buffalo's music is a unique blend of reggae, rock, country, zydeco, Cajun, and folk traditions. Take a listen here!

Also, on Thursday, and recommended by our good friends at The Butter Room, The Kings of Belmont will be playing a late night set on the Pink Floyd Garden Stage. Whether its rock or country or hip-hop or jams, you will find it woven into the sound of The Kings of Belmont. Listen to them here!

FRIDAY ::
Railroad Earth lights up the Dreaming Creek Main Stage from 9 to 11pm. From their first shows back in May 2001, Railroad Earth began carving a path deep and wide throughout the American Roots Music scene. With the support of a legion of incredibly loyal fans, Railroad Earth has become an undeniable force whose superb songwriting, singing and live performances have made them one of the most talked about bands to hit the U.S. Music scene in years. Wanna hear them? Click here!

Friday night also brings Tea Leaf Green to the Streamline Hill Holler Stage for a two hour late night session. Here's what The Butter Room has to say about them "...very talented musicians with a unique sound; kind of a cross between Traffic and The Allman Brothers." Take a listen here!

SATURDAY ::
Three Heavy Hitters on One Stage!

The David Grisman Quintet hits the Main Stage for a late afternoon serving of "dawg" music, a blend of many stylistic influences (including swing, bluegrass, Latin, jazz and gypsy) so unique he gave it its own name. Listen here!

Immediately following the Quintet is none other than Amos Lee, a folk, soul, and jazz singer-songwriter out of Philly, who has toured with the likes of Bob Dylan, Elvis Costello, Norah Jones, Paul Simon, and Merle Haggard. Hear him right now!

And topping off the night on the Dreaming Creek stage is Rusted Root, a musical organism of quintessential essence, monumental substance and vast appeal! Wanna hear them now? Click.

SUNDAY ::
Catch an early show with Turbo Pro Project, an eclectic group from North Carolina making their FloydFest debut on the Main Stage at 11:15am. Take a listen!

Also, Stick around for the Avett Brothers, also from NC, at 4:30pm on the Streamline Hill Holler Stage. Their songs are honest: just chords with real voices singing real melodies. But, the heart and the energy with which they are sung, is really why people are talking, and why so many sing along. Listen to them here!

With over 60 musicals acts and performances plus workshops, yoga classes, and even belly dancing and hulahooping, it's really an everybody's festival! After all it's a family affair!

All main stage acts can be found on myScoper.com and all other performance schedules can be downloaded on the FloydFest website. So enjoy and we hope to see you out there!

And just remember... FLOYDFEST IS WAITING! So get out there and [heart] your community!

Your Friends at
myScoper.com

A Full Week of Fun in SWVA

2008-07-21T18:07:00.003-04:00

Hi friends! It looks like a great week. Enjoy!

MONDAY ::
Hey, having a Monday ladies? No worries, grab your gal pals and head to Martin's tonight for Martini Mondays! Nothing cures a Monday quicker than an ice-cold Appletini!

TUESDAY ::
Wanna move your body and feel good? Try out the newest Modern Dance class at The Water Heater! Two hours of dance and movement for all skill levels starting at 5pm for only $5!

WEDNESDAY ::
James Kellogg, Comedy Hypnosis Show lands at VWCC. And if you've ever wondered what its like to be hypnotized, who knows, maybe you'll get picked from the audience and wake up as Elvis! Bonus: your attendance is for a great cause, Roanoke's Junior Achievement.

THURSDAY ::
FloydFest opens today! Of course it deserves its own post... too much goodness to list here! So stay tuned for a message about the lineup that you won't want to miss!
Can't make it out to Floyd? Then we recommend this awesomeness closer to home... Circumstantial Evidence: an amazing video installation and sensorium by Misty Sweet premiering at The Water Heater from 5pm to 7pm with refreshing goodies.

FRIDAY ::
You betcha! Oh Yah! Fargo, one of the Coen Brothers' finest, is the Midnight Movie at Grandin Theatre! You've got all week to work on your best Minnesotan accent. Some pre-film trivia... Filming of outdoor scenes in Fargo had to be constantly moved all over Minnesota, North Dakota, and Canada because spring was approaching and the snow kept melting.

SATURDAY ::
Last weekend there was TransformUs, the festival..., this week there's Transformers the Movie! A great movie that takes us late 20s/early 30s somethings back to our youth... and its a drive-in to boot! The movie is free and will start at dusk at Green Hill Park in Roanoke County. Autobots, transform!

SUNDAY ::
Feeling the need for some zen on your day of rest... the newest addition to the Roanoke yoga lineup has just what you crave. Power Yoga at Uttara Yoga Studio starts your day at 8:30am with a warm up, moving onto vigorous sun salutes and other poses, and finishing with deep stretches and a period of relaxation. Sure to energize you for another dazzling week in SWVA!

And just remember... YOUR WEEK IN EVENTS IS WAITING! So get out there and [heart] your community!

Your Friends at
myScoper.com

Doug and Telisha Williams in concert at The Water Heater this Friday July 18th

2008-07-17T12:44:00.001-04:00

country-folk artists Doug & Telisha Williams, a married couple from Martinsville, VA who tour nationally will perform at The Water Heater in Roanoke, VA Friday July 18th 7-10pm.

$15 for a 'button ticket', bring a chair or cushion. No Alcohol. Family Friendly!

They have become a favorite of celebrated Nashville songwriters, having opened recently for Lucinda Williams, Charlie Louvin and Darrell Scott. Check them out here http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mu-liz6n650

“Telisha’s vocals carry the twang of Steve Earle and Nanci Griffith, while Doug’s bluesy, country guitar conveys both rhythm and harmony.” Performing Songwriter

Your week in events courtesy of the now high-flying myScoper girls! Enjoy!

2008-07-14T16:37:00.001-04:00

Hiya folks! Sorry for the brief hiatus last week. The myScoper girls were on vacate at Aerial Dance Camp, yes that's right, we really are "intra"discplinary artists! Anywho, we're back and this week looks like fun!

THE WEEKDAYS...
Starting with tonight... it's karaoke time again at Blues BBQ so grab a beer and some fried ocra and give it a go! Tomorrow you should definitely make a lunch hour stop at the new and beautiful yoga studio, Uttara, on Kirk Avenue, downtown, for their Power Yoga Class, a great way to keep you focused and alert until 5 o'clock! Plus since they're new they've got great specials for the summer so visit them anytime of you can't go during lunch hour! On Wednesday, there's another free dance class at the library, only this time it's salsa! And with Latin night coming up at 202 Market on Saturday... go get some skills and use them! If you've got your daytime free on Thursday and you're interested in the art of jewelry making then you may want to register for Jacksonville Center's Wire Wrapped Cabachons Workshop, check out the link for more info on this super cool class.

THE WEEKEND...
There's a lot to do this weekend both in Roanoke and out of town. First we'll start with the out of town... this Friday kicks off the annual TransformUs Festival outside of Asheville, NC. This festival has been described as the "Burning Man" of the East although they are not affiliated with the original desert community this year. It runs for 3 days and is a place for radical self expression, and an experiment in temporary community building, you ARE the entertainment. You do need an invite to participate though so check their website for information! On a local note, Doug and Telisha Williams will be performing a house concert at our very own space, The Water Heater, on Friday at 7pm. They're from Martinsville and fantastic, don't believe us? Take a listen here! There's plenty to do on Saturday, starting with the festivals... you can have some BBQ at the Blues and BBQ Festival in Downtown Roanoke or have some VT wine at the Chateau Morrisette Hokie Bird Wine Festival in Floyd. Or if you have a competitive streak, head to the lake to take in the Virginia Commonwealth Games Wakeboarding Tournament at Crazy Horse Marina! Saturday night, if you want a fun and safe place to camp with the WHOLE family even the four legged variety then you can Camp with the Canines at Six Wags Dog Park, complete with S'mores and hot dogs (the eating kind)! Or maybe you just want to have a great view of the wild but want to sleep in your own bed Saturday, then the Valhalla Moonlight Gourmet Wine Dinner is most definitely a great choice for the grownups with a stellar view of the valley and incredible food and wine, a quite romantic affair! And on Sunday, as if we didn't keep you busy enough on Saturday, there's even more wakeboarding mayhem. This time it's for the pros, the BroStock Pro Invite Wakeboarding Competition is being held at Smith Mountain Lake where the world’s best riders will compete for a large cash purse at the foot of Smith Mountain. A superb way to end the weekend, yes?

And just remember... YOUR WEEK IN EVENTS IS WAITING! So get out there and heart your community!

Your Friends at
myScoper.com

The myScoper girls are on vacate!

2008-07-07T20:59:00.002-04:00

So if you want to know what's going on this week, just check out the super comprehensive listings on myScoper.com right now! Don't worry, we'll be back next week with an awesome array of fun in SWVA.

An Explosion of Fun in SWVA This Week! (pardon the pun)

2008-06-30T10:39:00.001-04:00

Whoohoo! It's a short week for most of you this week so enjoy it because there's plenty to do starting today! Fancy some outdoor theatre that you can take the kids to? Theatre Roanoke College is presenting "Remus Tales" tonight at the Olin Hall Amphitheatre. So take the family, a lounge chair, a picnic and your set because the show's FREE! Tomorrow marks the beginning of July and the first Small Dog Only Yappy Hour of the month at Six Wags Dog Park. So if you're worried about your wee little friend getting run over by those Scooby Doo types, this is a great option plus a good mix and mingle for you human types too! On Wednesday, you're more than halfway done with the week and deserve some relaxation, right? Check out the Blue 5 Jam and enjoy some fine music from local jazz musicians in the Roanoke Valley. Then, the Gang of Lost Souls Art Show opens on Thursday at Jeff Center, curated by LoLo Monae, in it's second year of presenting new, emerging, and underground artists in the area. And since you've probably got Friday off, make a night of it and head over to Salem afterward for the Half Moon Band, a local fave! Wanna see what they sound like? Take a listen here!

Ok, now moving into the weekend, obviously there are just too many July 4th events to list here so be sure to check out the full calendar for the rest. But here are some that we think are awesome!

The Roanoke Times Music for Americans ::
a no brainer, this one happens every year and is undoubtedly the largest in the area and FREE!

Independence Day at Thomas Jefferson's Retreat ::
This one is for the history buffs and since it's happening during the day, you can catch this and the fireworks later! Woot!

4th of July Music Festival at Bernard's Landing ::
For the folks at the lake that don't want to wait til' July 5th to get their party on... no fireworks but great music to shag dance to!

LibertyFest in Bedford ::
Quite possibly a rival to the RT event, with music and front row seats to the fireworks display at the D Day Memorial. This one does cost 5 bucks though.

Fireworks at Smith Mountain Lake ::
This one's on Saturday folks, in case you didn't get enough Friday! Complete with the Worx band and a Smörgåsbord of other festivities! And, if you're not the type to jump right into the festivities but prefer a leisurely distance, try the Fireworks Cruise on the Virginia Dare.

Also, if you're not on the lake Saturday, you want something to do too, right? Well Downtown Roanoke, Inc. is serving up something HOT! Downtown Rocks with Yo Mamma's Big Fat Booty Band! A FREE concert downtown! That's right they're closing the streets and getting crazy! Gonna be a fun night!

Okay, now honestly after all the mayhem this weekend, we'd understand if you're taking a REALLY long nap on Sunday. But wait... you can't forget about Floyd!!! Wine Down the Music Trail, one of our favorite events, is happening all day Saturday and Sunday so before you decide to call it a weekend, go have some wine and listen to some good tunes at the aptly named "Dreaming Creek" stage. Then you can go sleep like a baby and get ready for another great week in SWVA! Enjoy and have a happy and safe 4th everybody!

And just remember... YOUR WEEK IN EVENTS IS WAITING! So get out there and heart your community!

Your Friends at
myScoper.com

Early Show at the Water Heater @ 7pm gets you 1/2 price ticket to 202 Market Show tonight

2008-06-27T11:12:00.004-04:00

Show starts at 7pm! 813 5th Street SW, Roanoke, VA

Bring $5 to help support these artists as they travel, eat, and perform for you! And you get a Brothels Show Button. Present your Brothels Button at the door of 202 Market tonight after 10:30pm and get in 1/2 price for the Hubert Sumlin and The Nighthawks show! What a great night of music in Roanoke!

The Brothels, Asheville :: Folkrock, Bluegrass, Punk

The Brooms, Harrisonburg :: Rock, Country, Tropical

Juniors, Roanoke :: Indie, Pop, Rock

for more info click here

Our Very Own Local Band Fav, The Wading Girl on Fox News this week for Best Live music in the South!

2008-06-26T10:51:00.001-04:00

We want to see your "googly eye" photos!

2008-06-25T15:53:00.005-04:00

We know our stickers inspire some imaginative photos and we want to see them!

Send yours to info [at] upUPperiscope [dot] com
and they might just end up on here!

Here's our latest submission sent in by Daria Goode of her daughter, Darden! Looking good Darden! Keep rockin' those googly eyes!

The Brothels perform this Friday at The Water Heater

2008-06-25T12:27:00.005-04:00

$5 helps support these artists as they travel, eat, and perform for you!

The Brothels, Asheville :: Folkrock, Bluegrass, Punk

The Brooms, Harrisonburg :: Rock, Country, Tropical

Juniors, Roanoke :: Indie, Pop, Rock

for more info click here

A great week in SWVA, especially if you love animals!

2008-06-23T11:40:00.002-04:00

Good morning SWVA! It's a full week, so pay attention! Plus, if you've got pets or love animals, you're gonna want to pay extra attention to Wed/Thur/Fri/Sat events!

Tonight, the Caravan to Cuba is making a stop in Roanoke! The Caravans, established in 1992, deliver much needed US-Cuba Friendshipments. These humanitarian aid shipments mitigate the impact of the US embargo on Cuba and mobilize thousands of US citizens in favor of an alternative. To learn more about them or find out how to get involved, head down to the Unitarian Universalist Church at 6pm, but don't forget your green bean casserole, it is a pot-luck! Tomorrow, Acoustic Endeavors is playing their last live show of their long-lived Tuesday night gig at Blues BBQ so be sure to go out and woop it up one last time for this lively crew! On Wednesday, if you've got a dog that needs some space to run, check out Yappy Hour (yes that's spelled correctly) at Six Wags Dog Park. With 6 acres of wide open goodness, your dog will be in heaven for only $5! Plus, there are plenty of other owners there to mix and mingle with while your dog pretends he doesn't know you! Thursday and Friday are both great days to attend the Roanoke Valley Horse Show (that just happens to be going on all week at the Salem Civic Center) especially if you've got kids. On Thursday, all children in attendance are invited to bring their stick horses and parade around the ring in high style! And, Friday night, probably the favorite of many, the Jack Russells will be making their annual appearance at the show to do what they do best! Then on Saturday, the Roanoke Valley SPCA will be holding another quarterly Micro-chipping Clinic! Help keep your pet from getting lost or stolen and grab yourself some peace of mind for only $15/$25. And on Sunday, wind down the weekend with a feel-good cooking class at the Hotel Roanoke, the focus of this week's class: organic and all natural! Yummy!

And remember... YOUR WEEK IN EVENTS IS WAITING! So get out there and heart your community!

Your Friends at
myScoper.com

Cleanest Dog on the Planet Dog Wash Tomorrow!

2008-06-20T09:14:00.003-04:00

Hi folks! Check this out!
The Cleanest Dog on the Planet Dog Wash is happening tomorrow at the Kirk Family YMCA from 10am to 2pm! All proceeds benefit the Roanoke Valley SPCA! Small dogs are $10 and medium/large dogs are $15! A good time for a good cause, plus you'll have much less smelly pet! And... BONUS! The myScoper girls will be there with yummy goodies and their super-doggie mascots!

One Fine Week of Events in SWVA...

2008-06-16T12:39:00.001-04:00

Well hello SWVAnites! Last week we gave you one fantastic week of FREE events. This week's not quite as free but definitely just as fun! Starting today, for all the karaoke addicts out there, you know who you are..., there's a new gig in town. That's right, you can now get your karaoke fix one more day a week at Blues BBQ downtown and it's a good one! Don't believe us? See for yourself at 9pm tonight! Tomorrow, there are two exhibits worth seeing at the Eleanor D. Wilson Museum at Hollins. First up is sculptor extraordinaire, Diana Reuter-Twining, known for her dymanic bronze sculptures portraying an intimacy with nature captured through her diverse experience. Next up is the photography of Taisie Berkeley, who has won national recognition for her magazine profiles of people, bringing emotion, perceptiveness, and grace to her art. On Wednesday, if you are just as perplexed as most people about how to promote your business through social media then you should attend (for FREE by the way) Recession Proof Social Marketing at the Salem Civic Center at 8am. You'll get a great intro on how Facebook, Twitter, Blogs, LinkedIn, and YouTube can boost your business during these "crazy" times. Plus, yours truly, the myScoper girls will be on the panel to introduce, discuss and field questions about our favorite, Twitter! (if you want to "follow us" on Twitter, click the link now!)

Ok enough shameless self promo... back to your week! Starting the weekend early... Thursday is Juneteenth and there are plenty of festivities to attend including these two: JuneTeenth Opening Reception at Dumas Center in Roanoke or Juneteenth at Smithfield Plantation for folks in Blacksburg. Friday kicks off Blue Mountain's Gemini Fest in Martinsville! The bands include Giant Panda Guerilla Dub Squad, RAQ, local fave's, Sol Creech Band and the Seed, and many more. Plus with food, artisan wares and camping a plenty, you can easily make a weekend of it! Really though... there's so much going on Friday that you can easily take your pick by checking out the main calendar on myScoper.com! Saturday, poses the same problem of "what to choose," so here are a few that we don't think you should miss... The Juneteenth Freedom Festival will be in full swing by Saturday if you can't make Thursday's opening events. And for the wine and beer crowd, we've got two events for you! The 16th Annual Roanoke Valley Wine Festival in Elmwood Park or for those of you wanting a scenic detour, there's Music & Mead, Sounds & Cider at Blacksnake Meadery in Dugspur. Just make sure you've got a DD. And on Sunday, head downtown to the Roanoke City Market for some fresh fruit and veggies and a three hour helping of Billy Joe Chambers who started playing music at the age of 12 and was reared on the likes of Johnny Cash, Merle Haggard, and Hank Williams, sure to be a crowd pleaser and a great way to end your weekend!

Remember... YOUR WEEK IN EVENTS IS WAITING! So get out there and heart your community!

Your Friends at
myScoper.com

We made the paper! Look out! The Water Heater is coming soon!

2008-06-15T09:50:00.002-04:00

By Kevin Kittredge | The Roanoke Times | 981-3323

A new community space

Add the Water Heater to the rapidly growing list of arts and cultural projects happening in and around downtown Roanoke.

Artists Beth Deel and Wendy Schuyler plan to open their community arts center in Old Southwest sometime this month "if all goes smoothly," Schuyler said.

The Water Heater, a one-time retail space at 813 Fifth St. S.W., will feature music, dance, theater and improvisation, say the pair. It will also be used for classes, and can be rented for the modest rate of $5 to $15 an hour, depending on the day and the time.

Schuyler and Deel are partners in upUPperiscope Inc., which they describe as "an intra-disciplinary and green design firm and social media consultant." Their ventures include the Roanoke-based events calendar MyScoper.com, which has been known to include events from as far away as Russia.

The upUPperiscope offices will be located in the Water Heater once it opens, they said. As for the building's odd name, the origins are a little murky, but involve Deel's "obsession" (her word) with depicting water molecules in her art, as well as an actual water heater in the building that stopped working.

"It kind of exploded, like a sign from God," Deel explained.

The space has been host to some informal gatherings in the past, but in the past nine months has been renovated, with an eye toward obtaining all the necessary permits to reopen as an arts-related business. It even has a handicapped-accessible bathroom now.

The women have kept it funky, with dangling Japanese lanterns for ceiling lights and a tin cornice painted blue. They have added a padded marley floor covering for dancers.

"Essentially, we just wanted it to be a community space," Schuyler said. "Something that has events going on all the time. Whether it's free hip-hop classes, yoga classes, ballroom dancing."

"It's our way of helping the community have a hub," Deel said.

The Water Heater is part of a recent wave of arts-related development in Roanoke, including multiple new art galleries, new artists' apartments and studios and, of course, the $66 million Taubman Museum of Art.

To book the Water Heater for events or for more information, e-mail booking@upupperiscope.com.

'FREE'ness for all! Enjoy!

2008-06-09T18:58:00.002-04:00

YOUR WEEK IN EVENTS IS WAITING! So get out there and heart your community!

Hey folks! So much excitement today that I'm just now getting to share what's happenin' this week for FREE... that's right every event featured in this paragraph is free! So there's no reason you shouldn't go enjoy yourself! It's gonna be a good week... starting with a free all-ages show tonight at Plan 9 on Grandin. They're doing it right over there with The Mommies, Boys Lie, and Lord of The Yum Yum performing tonight at 7pm. And, tomorrow if you happen to be over on Brambleton Ave., stop by the Mojo Cafe to grab an iced coffee, ok you'll have to pay for the coffee, but while you're there, check out the stellar photography of Cricket Powell, on display until July 3rd. Then on Wednesday, the dancing duo of Dave and Donna Spangler are giving an entire hour of beginner swing dance lessons at the Williamson Road Public Library! Single, coupled? It doesn't matter because it's FREE and open to everyone! Bella Magazine turns 3 on Thursday and you're invited to celebrate in grand style at Trio with yummy apps and fun surprises (drinks are extra). Then Surf's Up on Friday... "Surf's Up," the movie that is, is at Elmwood Park for free as part of the "movies in the park" series. Take a blanket and some popcorn from home and enjoy a night under the stars. Saturday just happens to be the motherload of "free"ness this week with an entire day of "on the house" goodness at the Emerging Artist Series "One Year Since We Started" Extravaganza complete with too many bands to list, breakdancers, hip hop performers, visual artists and free goodies from Deb's Frozen Lemonade, Blues BBQ, Maggie Moo's and Blue Ridge Catering. On Sunday, dial it back again, grab a lawn chair and go listen to the Mountain Music Makers at Roanoke Mountain Campground. And remember you just went out for an entire week without spending a dime! Great things can be found for free in our little valley, enjoy them!

Your Friends at
myScoper.com :: heart your community

The myScoper Girls Shake Obama's hand!

2008-06-06T13:17:00.000-04:00

Shaking Obama's hand today as he begins his national campaign in Southwest VA from The Butter Room on Vimeo.

A Meeting between Robert Plant, Alison Krauss, and Destiny

2008-06-03T15:02:00.000-04:00

The music from the lot grew louder and our anticipation built as we walked amongst the crowds descending on the Roanoke Coliseum, destined to see what has been dubbed the perfect blend of two of music’s most powerful forces… That’s right, Robert Plant and Alison Krauss visited Roanoke, VA last night, June 2nd, for one spectacular and very special evening of bluegrass, rock, and a little bit of everything else in between.

It was a special night for my family too. We don’t always get together as often as we’d like but last night we were celebrating my mom’s 60th birthday so all six of us grabbed our seats and excitedly watched the night unfold, and did it ever…

The opener, Sharon Little, got the crowd warmed up with her resonating and soulful vocals. Little was hand picked from hundreds of others to open the legendary show, and it’s amazing to see just where true talent can show up. According to her site, she was waiting tables at the beginning of 2008 and within just a few short months she’s now touring internationally with some the best-known names in music. I think it is definitely only a matter of time until the world catches on, just as Alison Krauss and Robert Plant did, to her uniquely powerful voice! For more about Sharon Little or to take a listen, click here!

After the opening act, the energy in the coliseum continued to build as the stage crew quickly changed and tested the instruments. The lights dimmed again and this time from either side of the stage the two people that everyone had come to see appeared. Alison looked just like the delicate and rare flower that she is and Robert Plant arrived in true rocker style, hair askew, in jeans. They wasted no time getting comfortable on the stage, singing, in impeccable harmony, everything from Townes Van Zandt’s “Nothin,” where Plant was able to stretch his lungs and soar, to revitalized Zeppelin classics including “The Battle of Evermore” and “When the Levee Breaks.” They even managed to squeeze in, last minute I’m sure, a version of “Who Do You Love?” as a tribute to Bo Diddley who sadly died yesterday at the age of 79.

Two songs during the show that I will not soon forget and are still resonating with me today are an a cappella “Down To The River To Pray” that literally brought the house to a hushed and peaceful silence and Alison’s “Trampled Rose” from their Raising Sand record. Her voice and stage presence during this song can only be described as simply angelic.

And not to be forgotten, the acclaimed writer/composer and producer of the “O Brother, Where Art Thou?” soundtrack (just to name one), T Bone Burnette, did his own wailing on the guitar and even interjected a few of his original tunes in between Krauss and Plant’s songs. As Plant mentioned about halfway through the show it was, after all, Burnette, who scheduled the meeting between, Krauss, Plant, and destiny.

And fortune it was to see the two of them at their best, without any ego attached. Numerous times throughout the show the humble and generous pair would simply step out of the light to let the band shine and Krauss applauded the band almost as much as the audience did. There was a polite, yet playful energy between the entire group that seemed to reverberate through the show so you just knew that these folks weren’t playing for the fame or the money but for the music itself, a true appreciation for the art of collaboration to which the audience responded with several standing ovations and awe.

I feel honored to have seen such musical luminaries perform together. And I look forward to seeing what future collaborations they may have in store! This is one birthday that I doubt my mom will soon forget! Thanks Robert Plant and Alison Krauss for one amazing date with destiny.

There are tour dates left… some as close as DC (the Merriweather pavilion, a wonderful outdoor space), as well as Asheville and Raleigh, NC. For more information, check out robertplantalisonkrauss.com

June is gonna be a good month...

2008-06-02T13:53:00.001-04:00

YOUR WEEK IN EVENTS IS WAITING! So get out there and heart your community!

Good morning Roanoke! Today is a special day! Alison Krauss and Robert Plant are in town on their Raising Sand tour so grab a ticket now because the show starts at 8pm! Tomorrow, if you've ever wanted to try swing dancing now's your chance. The Church of Holy Spirit offers Basic Swing Lessons at 6:30pm every Tuesday with a live practice session at Corned Beef afterward! Wednesday night is wing night at Blues BBQ so no matter what your flavor, buffalo or spicy, they've got em for 50 cents a piece, yummy, yummy! On Thursday, Kinda Blue opens with a reception at Cheshire Gallery featuring paintings by Dana Sharvin, photography by Daryl Thetford and of course the oh so fine Jesse Ray Carter Trio. And if you don't get enough of the blues on Thursday then Friday won't disappoint! Bob Margolin is back at 202 Market, this time with Ann Rabson of Saffire - The Uppity Blues Women. Take a listen to them here and here. There's loads to do on Saturday. If you're feeling philanthropic, check out the 2008 MS Bike Ride "Tour De Vine" in Charlottesville or a little closer to home you can participate in the "Run With Grace", the third annual 5K to raise money for a scholarship in memory of Grace Lovegrove at Patrick Henry. Or if you'd just like to spend the day eating... well you can do that too at the Steamin' Summer Shrimp Fest at Salem Civic Center, a smorgasbord of all things crustacean. This Sunday's not just for lying around either! Take the opportunity to check out Concert in the Alley a benefit for Downtown Music Lab at Fork in the Alley all afternoon or witness the brawl between the Rail Yard Rumblers and The Commandos at the All-Girl Flat-Track Roller Derby! And, if you're looking for a road-trip, no worries, Tom Petty and Steve Winwood will be rockin' out at the Nissan Pavilion. So have a great week and we'll see ya soon!

Your Friends at
myScoper.com :: heart your community

you're gonna be busy this week...

2008-05-27T11:10:00.001-04:00

YOUR WEEK IN EVENTS IS WAITING! So get out there and heart your community!

O Hai!!! Hope everyone had a good long weekend... plus, there are only 4 days left of work this week! whoohoo!! So here's what we've got to keep you occupied when you're not working... Tonight, some of myScoper's favorites will be rockin' Martin's downtown. Look Mexico is traveling all the way from FL to play with local fave, The Wading Girl and Magic Twig Community for a free, yes FREE, show. Don't miss it! On Wednesday, if you're a Beatles fan then we'd bet money that you'll love The Pete Best Band at Awful's Towers. Pete Best "put the beat" into the original Beatles as their drummer from 1960-1962 so go check out what he's been up to! Afterall, this may be your only chance to ever meet a real live Beatle! Thursday kicks off the Graves Mountain Festival of Music in Shenandoah National Park with the likes of Ralph Stanley, Peter Rowan, Seldom Scene, and more until May 31st. Vintage Virginia is also happening all weekend starting on Friday in Centreville. 50 of the most prominent Virginia wineries will be pouring over 350 of their finest selections for your tasting pleasure, just make sure you have a DD. And if you're not looking to leave town on Friday, the Stereofidelics will be back at 202 Market with their amazing show from Asheville, NC. This duo is truly phenomenal, take a listen here! Or for the dancers or the dance lovers out there... Le Hotclub De Biglick is teaming up with the Ballet Ecuatoriano de Camara, RBT, Dance Hypothesis and F.R.E.E. Dance Company for what will be an amazing performance at William Fleming's Dickinson Auditorium. Then on Saturday, veteran Cirque du Soleil performers will roll into town to team up with RSO for "Rock Symphony Circus", which is sure to be the highlight of RSO's season and one fantastically mesmerizing event! Dial it back a notch on Sunday with a picnic dinner on the parkway at Roanoke Mountain, the Blue Ridge Mountain String Band will be there providing wonderful and free entertainment! But be sure get yours zzz's Sunday night because June's gonna be "hot"! Pardon the cheese but it's true...

Your Friends at
myScoper.com :: heart your community