YSU wind ensemble releases its 6th CD

YSU wind ensemble releases its 6th CD

YOUNGSTOWN — “Urban Requiem,” a CD by Youngstown State University’s Symphonic Wind Ensemble, has been released by NAXOS International, a leading classical music record label. Stephen L. Gage, professor of Music and YSU director of bands, is the conductor of the ensemble. “Urban Requiem” includes six compositions performed by Dana School of Music faculty members James Umble, Kent Engelhardt, Kathryn Thomas Umble, and Robert Fitzer (deceased). YSU alumni Allen Cordingley and Joseph Carey are also featured as soloists on the recording

The ensemble has released six CDs since 1998, with the fourth project, “Spin Cycle,” honored by Downbeat Magazine as its 2004 University Classical Recording of the Year. “Urban Requiem” is available on most major online CD stores.

Comedian John Valby coming to The Palms

CONNEAUT LAKE, Pa. — John Valby, who uses his musical ability to compose and perform satirical songs, will come to The Palms, 12268 Pa. Route 618 (near the former Conneaut Lake Park). Call (814) 382-3625 for ticket information. Valby, who is known as “Dr. Dirty,” puts on a show strongly recommended for adult audiences.

Cleveland film festival seeking entries

CLEVELAND — The 33rd Cleveland International Film Festival is seeking entries. Short and feature-length films made after April 1, 2007, are being accepted for consideration. Films must be available on either VHS or DVD for review and must be submitted before Nov. 30. For complete details, go to clevelandfilm.org.

In recent years, more than $100,000 has been awarded to short films and independent features presented in the CIFF competitions. The festival will be March 19-29 at Tower City Cinemas in Tower City Center.

Air National Guard band in Woodworth Park

NORTH LIMA — The Air National Guard band of the Great Lakes will perform a free concert at 6:30 p.m. Thursday at Woodworth Park on Luther Avenue, off Western Reserve Road between Market Street and Southern Boulevard. Bring blankets or lawn chairs. For more information, call the township park board at (330) 549-9552.

Joe Bonamassa to give free concert at park

YOUNGSTOWN — Acclaimed blues guitarist Joe Bonamassa will give a free concert at 7 p.m. Aug. 22 at the Judge Morley Pavilion in Mill Creek Park.

The pavilion, located in the Wick Recreation Area off McCollum Road on the West Side, has a capacity of 6,000. Concertgoers can bring blankets or lawn chairs.

Park Vista event

YOUNGSTOWN — Park Vista’s summer entertainment series will feature Youngstown State University’s Dana School of Music Ensemble in a free concert at 7 p.m. July 31. The concert will be in the Gathering Room of Park Vista, 1216 Fifth Ave.

Car show in park

BOARDMAN — The Mahoning Valley Olde Car Club will hold Cars in the Park, its annual car show, at Boardman Park from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Aug. 3. There will be door prizes, awards, food, a drawing and a Chinese auction. Music will be provided by Two’s Company. New this year will be a Pinewood Derby Race for ages 5 to 17, with prizes and trophies.

Quote/unquote

X“I don’t think people were anticipating the song to be that good.” — John Paul, program director at KUPL in Portland, Ore., on Jessica Simpson’s new country song, “Come on Over.” The song has been winning over fans of the genre and climbing the country charts.

X“Someday there will be a Latino president and an Asian president and a Jewish president. We can’t talk about those things and then not be. The Lord that I serve says the impossible is unacceptable.” — Stevie Wonder, a supporter of Barack Obama’s, on whether he believes there is a tangible chance of a black president in his lifetime.

X “Today, in the celebrity world, we’re seeing an addiction epidemic.” — Drew Pinsky, host of VH1’s “Celebrity Rehab” and radio’s “Love Line.”