DEEP PURPLE
About the Publisher: Joanne Durann
Photo Credit Allie Serrano
Joanne Durann is very passionate about sports and entertainment. She is a former actress and singer and has always loved being in the center of the action. She also loves supporting others and showcasing the entertainers and players coming to the Tampa Bay area.
She has written for the Examiner, Yahoo.com, Axs, Out on The Town Magazine, as well as a writing instructor. She has authored multiple books, news articles, and entertainment pieces. She has interviewed the likes of Geoff Tate, Mark Daly, and Rudy Sarzo, among others.
After a successful career in education, Joanne has decided to focus on the local sports and entertainment industry through South Shore Sports and Entertainment Magazine she continues to keep the party in the Tampa Bay area.
Staff
Trish is a 32-year combat Army Veteran, who spent the better part of her last twelve years in uniform stationed at The Pentagon in Washington, DC. While there, her assignments included organizing major Army infrastructure and entertainment programs, including The Army Birthday Ball, Total Army Analysis, and Organization Days for the Senior Army Leadership and Army Staff Sections. Trish is also a published author with numerous credits, including The Knoxville News-Sentinel, Florida Women Magazine, and Lakeside Life.
Phil Stoecker grew up the son of journalists, and youngest of eight children in a small town outside of New York City. He joined the U.S. Navy in 1979, serving as a cryptologist aboard submarines and at overseas duty stations. After his 10-year stint in the Navy, he was hired by the Department of the Navy, where he served as a civilian analyst until he retired 27 years later and moved from the Washington D.C. area to the Tampa Bay area with his wife, Trish, the Managing Editor. Phil indulges his hobbies as an amateur photographer and writer, and strumming one of his seven guitars, one of which is pictured above in Trish’s arms. He hopes to make entertaining contributions to this publication.
August Holidays
International Peace Month
Aug 01 World Wide Web Day
Aug 04 Coast Guard Day
Aug 09 National Book Lover’s Day
Aug 12 Vinyl Record Day
Aug 14 World Lizard Day
Aug 16 National Roller Coaster Day
Aug 19 World Photography Day
Aug 24 National Waffle Day
Aug 26 National Dog Day
Aug 27 National Soccer Day
Aug 29 Record Store Day
Aug 30 National Beach Day
Traveling Around
Traveling around the country you get to see a lot of amazing things. From the big cities to the small towns, America does not disappoint. This is extremely true of the small town of Stevensville, Montana.
This beautiful small town outside of the city of Missoula, is one of the oldest communities in Montana. Not far from the site of the TV show Yellowstone this picturesque community has the hometown feel that you are looking for. The town dates to the 1860’s and was originally founded as a trading post.
We stayed at the historic Stevensville Hotel a former hospital this stunning Airbnb has all of its rooms named after the doctors, nurses, or hospital rooms that once stood there. The hotels charm and classic architecture give you the feeling of being back when it was built.
The Bitterroot Valley where the town lies is full of amazing things to do, especially if you are into the outdoors. There are amazing place to hiking and see the natural beauty that is only in the great western United States.
There are great lakes in the area for swimming, fishing, camping, and watching all types of wildlife. The bitterroot is also known for its whitewater rafting. The views while either floating down the calmer spot or thrusting through the rapids are out of this world.
The area also boasts many cultural events throughout the year as well. Things like farmers markets, arts & crafts fairs, and local festivals. There are Native America tribes to visit and ghost towns to wander through.
The food is not to be missed either! We had the best burgers in the country in, The Tin Can Bar and Draft Room. This burger was huge and had everything you could ask for in a burger, cooked perfectly with all the toppings you would normally ask for as extras! The French Dip was amazing as well, along with the French fries that were more then enough for too. At night we headed to CJ’s Den for music and drinks before heading back to the hotel for the night. While in town, we never used our car, there was so much in walking distance.
There is so many things in the general area within thirty mins to an hour of this town, the location is unbelievable! If you ever get the chance to travel to Montana don’t miss out on this extraordinary town!
A Night of Classic Rock Magic: John Waite, Foreigner, & Styx
Trish Stoecker
On July 20, 2024, the Mid-Florida Amphitheater buzzed with energy as classic rock enthusiasts gathered for a night to remember, featuring John Waite, Foreigner, and Styx. The air was thick with anticipation as fans eagerly awaited the performances of these iconic artists, each bringing decades of hits and showmanship to the stage.
John Waite opened the evening, captivating the audience with his soulful voice and charismatic presence. Waite, who last performed in Tampa in 2019, delivered a nostalgic setlist including "Missing You," "Change," and "When I See You Smile." His performance was both intimate and powerful, setting the tone for the night with a blend of emotion and classic rock energy. Despite a relatively short set of around 45 minutes, Waite's performance was a heartfelt journey through his most beloved songs.
Next up was Foreigner, who had graced Tampa with their presence just last year. The setlist from this year was identical to last year’s, except for no acoustic set, due to time constraints. However, they did not disappoint. Foreigner's set was a high-octane spectacle, featuring timeless hits like "Cold As Ice," "Juke Box Hero," and "I Want to Know What Love Is." The crowd sang along passionately, their voices merging with the band's impeccable harmonies. The energy in the amphitheater was electric, with the band playing for nearly 90 minutes, leaving the audience craving more. This year they did feature Tampa’s own Plant High School Chorus to back them up on “I Want to Know What Love Is.” It showcased the teens’ vocal talents as well as gave the band the opportunity to promote funding for the arts in High School.
The grand finale of the evening was Styx, who hadn't performed in Tampa since 2017. The band showcased their legendary musicianship and dynamic stage presence with a setlist that included classics such as "Come Sail Away," "Renegade," and rounded out the night with "Mr. Roboto." Styx's performance was a masterclass in rock theatrics, complete with dazzling lights and intricate instrumental solos. Their two-hour set was a rollercoaster of emotions, blending hard rock anthems with softer, melodic tunes. Two of the early members of Styx remain: James “JY” Young (who joined the band in 1970) and Tommy Shaw (1975). In 1999 they were joined by Lawrence Gowan who replaced Dennis DeYoung, on keyboards and lead vocals. His keyboard was prominently featured on a turntable he could spin to great effect, allowing those in attendance to see him tickling the ivories. In May of this year, the group announced that Lawrence’s younger Brother Terry would be joining the band on bass, replacing longtime band member Ricky Phillips. Todd Sucherman on drums and Will Evankovich on acoustic and electric guitars filled out the band’s compliment. Throughout the night, each act demonstrated remarkable showmanship, connecting with the audience and delivering performances that resonated deeply with fans both old and new. The July 20 concert at the Mid-Florida Amphitheater was a testament to the enduring power of classic rock, leaving attendees with memories to cherish for years to come.
The Hard Rock Seminole in Tampa is welcoming Deep Purple and YES to their events arena this month on August 15th at 8 pm.
Deep Purple the British rock band that formed in 1968 and is often credited as one of the pioneers of heavy metal and hard rock. The band's classic lineup includes Ian Gillan (vocals), Simon Mc Bride (guitar), Roger Glover (bass), Don Airey (keyboard), and Ian Paice (drums). They’re known for their powerful live performances and their fusion of rock, blues, and classical influences.
Their 1970 album In Rock and the subsequent releases like Machine Head (1972) and Made in Japan (1973) are particularly celebrated. Machine Head features their iconic track "Smoke on the Water," which is famous for its instantly recognizable guitar riff.
Over the years, Deep Purple has gone through numerous lineup changes, but they’ve maintained a strong presence in the rock scene. Their music is marked by elaborate guitar solos, dynamic keyboard arrangements, and energetic drumming, and they’ve influenced many bands and musicians in the rock and metal genres. Despite changes in the lineup and periods of inactivity, Deep Purple continues to tour and record new music.
Joining Deep Purple that night is Yes, a progressive rock band that formed in 1968 and is renowned for its complex compositions, elaborate live performances, and pioneering use of synthesizers and other innovative technology.
The band's music often features phenomenal arrangements leading with singer Jon Davison. Jon is joined by the unbelievable Steve Howe on guitar. It has been said that he is a master at anything that has strings and fretboard. Geoff Downes is one leading keyboard players in Rock n Roll. Billy Sherwood is known for his work with Yes and was asked by Chris Squire, himself, if he would replace him. Rounding out the band is the amazing Jay Schellen on drums. He has worked with bass player Billy in the past, so it is a natural feel for the two.
The band is well known for their albums; Fragile (1971), Close to the Edge (1972), and Going for the One (1977) which produced such hits as Roundabout, I’ve Seen All Good People, Long Distance Runaround, and Close to the Edge.
This is a show with major bands not to be missed!!
Raymond James Stadium
