Great Lafayette

Subtle Body and the Cosmic Man Live at Purdue University

2011-12-05T14:25:00.000-08:00

I love this band made up of some of my favorite people in Lafayette. See them if you get a chance.

#HalloweenManiaCountdown Promo ft. PLOT and .bassiq.

2011-10-13T09:50:00.000-07:00

Qwel and Maker Halloween Special

2011-10-05T10:08:00.000-07:00

Visit the facebook event page for more info.

St. Boniface GermanFest

2011-09-11T10:44:00.000-07:00

PLOT - Metropolitan Theme (Official Video)

2011-09-06T11:47:00.000-07:00

Zimdiana

2011-09-04T13:31:00.000-07:00

Subtle Body and the Cosmic Man

2011-09-04T13:14:00.000-07:00

Performance Video Coming Soon

Uno Mas

2011-09-04T11:33:00.001-07:00

Uno Mas, a photo by mannycervanny410 on Flickr.

Who is Uno Mas?

United States of Mind @ The Knickerbocker

2011-08-19T09:14:00.000-07:00

Enjoying Indiana Beach

2011-07-23T23:27:00.000-07:00

Green Room Rockers

2011-06-30T08:59:00.001-07:00

The Latest from Plot

2011-06-29T10:16:00.000-07:00

Visit BandCamp to grab their new album and song "Angles and Demons."

Legendary Show at Where Else? Bar!

2011-06-06T09:25:00.000-07:00

Round the Fountain Art Fair - May 28th

2011-05-10T14:45:00.001-07:00

Fight for Your Right (Revisited)

2011-04-26T09:28:00.000-07:00

Watch the New Beastie Boys Video!

2011-04-21T09:22:00.001-07:00

Beastie Boys - Make Some Noise - Free Music Videos - Top Songs

Listen to the NEW Beastie Boys Single!

2011-04-11T11:39:00.000-07:00

Check out the New Single "Make Some Noise" by the Beastie Boys. HIT THAT PLAY BUTTON ABOVE if you're with me and watch that hilarious trailer from the Fight for Your Right - Revisited below if you're with me some more! Every hilarious person in America today is involved!

BIG SEAN!

2011-03-30T20:11:00.001-07:00

Freddie Gibbs - Face Down

2011-01-31T08:54:00.000-08:00

Happening this Weekend at LaLa Gallery and Studio

2011-01-14T06:05:00.000-08:00

Time	Friday, January 14 · 8:00pm - 11:00pm

Location	LaLa Gallery & Studio609 Main Street Lafayette, IN

Saturday Cinema

Time	Saturday, January 15 · 6:00pm - 9:00pm

Location	LaLa Gallery & Studio 609 Main Street Lafayette, IN

Top 50 Albums of the Year - Click Covers for Info on Each Album

2011-01-03T12:28:00.000-08:00

Warhol Enterprises!

2011-01-02T04:22:00.000-08:00

Warhol Enterprises Opening Reception from Emmanuel Cervantes on Vimeo.

GDP!

2011-01-02T04:19:00.000-08:00

Orange Water Live at the Black Sparrow from Emmanuel Cervantes on Vimeo.

Mandala at TAF

2010-12-04T19:02:00.000-08:00

At TAF

2010-12-03T11:56:00.000-08:00

Covers

2010-11-19T10:01:00.000-08:00

Hits from the Vault: New York Street in 2008

2010-09-21T14:40:00.000-07:00

Our Cancer Year

2010-09-13T15:39:00.000-07:00

The following was taken from:
http://www.purdue.edu/discoverypark/oncological/ccc.php

"In anticipation of a visit this fall by Joyce Brabner, co-author of Our Cancer Year, and illustrator Frank Stack, we are inviting the greater Lafayette to share their cancer story with us. Over the next few months, volunteer editors and artists will be compiling the stories into a graphic novel, Lafayette -- Our Cancer Year which will be unveiled during Brabner and Stack's visit November 4 for our annual Cancer Culture and Community program. The book will be dedicated to Brabner's husband Harvey Pekar - who died July 12 at age 70 - along with everyone who has fought against cancer."

"Far I See Haze" at K. Dees

2010-09-02T17:27:00.000-07:00

The work of artist Andrés Arízaga U. is on display in this video taken at one of Greater Lafayette's best coffee shops.

I Like Mike

2010-08-28T07:34:00.000-07:00

State Senate Candidate Mike Oxenrider and musician Mike Reeb posed for this photo at the Tippecanoe County Democratic Party Headquarters. Learn more about Mike Oxenrider at OxenriderforStateSenate.com . To find out more about Mike Reeb and his upcoming album, go to MikeReeb.com. Mike's new album "Breaking," is coming out this week and will be available on CD, online and on iTunes.

Far I See Haze

2010-08-15T11:10:00.000-07:00

Recently, I was fortunate enough to meet an artist at the excellent Virtuous Cycles bike shop in downtown Lafayette. His name is Andrés Arízaga U. and his work can be seen at K.Dees Coffee on Main Street until September 30th. The opening for the show is being held on August 25th at 6:30pm. Check out more work by this talented artist at AndreU.Tumblr.com or simply drop by K. Dees.

Filly's

2010-07-29T09:57:00.000-07:00

Round the Fountain Art Fair

2010-07-15T09:53:00.000-07:00

Scenes and Interviews from the 2010 Round the Fountain Art Fair 2010. Visit RoundtheFountain.org and facebook.com/roundthefountain for more.

Hits from the Vault:Green Room Rockers "Pressure Drop"

2010-07-01T14:54:00.000-07:00

Green Room Rockers play "Pressure Drop" at the Lafayette Brewing Company in 2008. Visit jconline.com and vote for Green Room Rockers to play the Dancing in the Streets Festival on July 17.

A Tribute to Mexico

2010-06-27T13:24:00.001-07:00

These videos are from a Mexican themed party at the Black Sparrow to celebrate Cinco de Mayo.

The Skylight Coffehouse is hosting Mexican groups twice a month and The Knickerbocker Saloon is hosting Mexican groups once a month. The Skylight shows are all ages while the Knickerbocker shows are 21+. Entry to both venues is $5 per event.

The next shows with Chispazo Musical will be July 3rd at 8pm at The Skylight Coffehouse and July 31st at 10pm at The Knickerbocker Saloon.

Slow Mosey and the Virtuous Cycles Grand Opening

2010-06-26T03:01:00.001-07:00

The May 2010 installment Mosey Down Down Main Street Festival saw the Grand Opening of Virtuous Cycles. We took an opportunity to ride a Surly Cargo bike and met up with the Lafayette Brawlin' Dolls on the pavement outside the Virtuous Cycles Store. We rounded out our Mosey with visits with Carrie Wing and the The Purdue Chapter of the Student National Art Education Association and with a tour of the Virtuous Store.

Bazuco

2010-06-21T09:36:00.000-07:00

"Our Business is None of Your Art: A Bookazine Guide to Five Years of Bazuco in America," had its release party in Downtown Lafayette, Indiana on April 24th, 2010. Performers included MC Plus+ and Dead Druglords. Visit bazucobazuco.com for more.

Vegan Cook Off Challenge!

2010-06-03T16:17:00.000-07:00

This event was hosted by Nutritional Zen and Chris Lacey and was held at Columbian Park on May 22, 2010. The participants were Jason Smith and the winner Robbert Ford of Peaceful Greens.

Help Bring Cultural Cannibals to Greater Lafayette!

2010-05-07T04:06:00.001-07:00

Visit culturalcannibals.com for more on these two amazing artists.

Artist Artur Silva and DJ Kyle Long sit down for an interview with Manny Cervantes. The pair, known as Cultural Cannibals, play video games, eat, show off designs, share some of the records and books they love, as well as talk about art and music and also about their recently launched clothing line.

Turning the Tables on Tim, Rollin' with Rollie and Swimming with Adults

2010-04-24T01:11:00.000-07:00

The gang from all your favorite TV shows gave West Lafayette a free show and free schwag. I won the big price at the Operation game. 75% of the coolest people in Greater Lafayette were there and 100% of the city's hedge hogs showed. Asobi Seksu kicked adult butt! and singer Yuki Chikudate tore it down after the band's first set. I had the greatest Earth Day of my life!

Artists Speak: Jordan, Claire and Johnny

2010-04-16T12:48:00.000-07:00

Jordan and Claire, from Lafayette Jefferson High School, talk about their work at the Lala Art Gallery. Meanwhile, Johnny chats with GreatLafayette.com at the Pride Lafayette Community Center about his work.

Brawl On My Sister!

2010-04-14T12:34:00.000-07:00

For match schedules and more info visit: BrawlinDolls.com.

Smacked and Spilled: Lafayette Brawlin' Dolls vs. ROCK from Emmanuel Cervantes on Vimeo.

Smacked and Spilled: The Brawlin' Dolls after the Bout with Rock

2010-04-12T18:57:00.000-07:00

The Liberator, Sorah Bones, Kiss My Axe, Heartbreak Scorsese, Fierce B-otch, Brand-Em and friends and fans pose for pictures after the bout with R.O.C.K. Visit BrawlinDolls.com for more on the roller derby and keep an eye out here for a video taken at the bout.

1st Lafayette Critical Mass

2010-03-26T20:31:00.001-07:00

Photos from the Art of Video

2010-03-23T12:05:00.000-07:00

Check out photos from the class I taught recently at the Tippecanoe Art Federation. Videos from the class are coming soon. Click on the slideshow to visit the web album and see the photos in more detail.

The Flat Cats at Duncan Hall

2010-03-22T10:48:00.001-07:00

Check out these two performances from Chicago's Flat Cats at Duncan Hall in Lafayette. Become a fan of the band at facebook.com/flatcats

Mimes' Light Show at Moseystock '09

2010-03-19T21:15:00.000-07:00

Root Hog "So Damn Hard"

2010-03-19T17:22:00.000-07:00

The New Pornographers have a new single out now!

2010-03-12T03:24:00.000-08:00

The New Pornographers have a new single out now!

Concealed Carry

2010-03-09T21:23:00.000-08:00

Is Purdue University denying its students their constitutional right to protect themselves by having a ban on properly licensed handgun carrying? Would Purdue University be a safer place if students with proper training and concealed carry permits were allowed to exercise their Second Amendment right and arm themselves while on campus? Or, would students be in more danger if guns were allowed on "school" grounds and does a university qualify as a school to be protected by the Gun-Free Schools Act? Young Americans for Liberty (YAL)- Purdue Chapter hosted this discussion while members of the Purdue University Police Department and Representatives of Students for Concealed Carry on Campus made up the expert panel. Visit http://concealedcampus.org/ to find out more about the organization.

Belleza

2010-03-04T10:50:00.001-08:00

"Quixote" by Steven Ritz-Barr

2010-03-03T22:09:00.000-08:00

Steven Ritz-Barr is a Puppet Master and maker of "Quixote." Quixote is the latest film in the series: Classics in Miniature. Visit ClassicsinMiniature.com to learn more about the film and the artists behind this movie.

Stylin...

2010-03-03T15:13:00.001-08:00

Inside and Out of the Java Roaster

2010-02-13T18:58:00.000-08:00

Inside and Out of the Java Roaster from Emmanuel Cervantes on Vimeo.

After a cancelled shoot due to bad weather and slippery conditions, Chris Purdy and I decided to shoot a little practice video with our new 7D in downtown Lafayette. Instead of bearing the single digit weather for the entire shoot, Chris and I opted to shoot part of our video inside of one of the premiere coffee houses in Indiana: the Java Roaster. We then braved the elements and shot some outside. Brrrr...

Keith Austin "60 Years from Now"

2010-02-13T18:21:00.000-08:00

Co-worker and friend, Keith Austin sings a song from his new release "Treble Jangle Pop." Become friends with Keith at http://www.facebook.com/keithaustinmusic.

Casting Call

2010-01-28T14:43:00.000-08:00

Media Art and Design Works is announcing a casting call for actresses 18 to 34 for a commercial to be aired in the Indianapolis area. Please send a high quality photograph to Manny Cervantes (that's me) at manny@madwinc.com. You can call me with any questions at 765-420-7050 ext. 113 and be sure to leave a voice-mail if I do not pick up. Actresses will be asked to come in for an audition after we review photographs and after a brief phone interview. Check out Madwinc.com to see some of our portfolio and watch the following 2 commercials for additional samples of our work. The first commercial is our latest production, while the 2nd is the last commercial produced for the Laundry and Tan Connection: the company who's commercial we will be shooting.

Thank You,

Manny Cervantes

Laundry and Tan Connection Commercial from Media Art Design Works on Vimeo.

The Sustainable Stream – Greater Lafayette Commerce Industrial Luncheon – 01/22/10

2010-01-26T15:48:00.000-08:00

Coverage of this event includes the announcement of the Clear – Blue – Green Business Certification Program, as well as coverage of presentations by County Commissioner David Byers, Lafayette Mayor Tony Roswarski and West Lafayette Mayor John Dennis. Mayor Roswarski briefly mentions the Chatham Square project which is taking place where the Old Bridgeway Apartments used to be. According to Roswarski, the Chatham Square project is, “another LEED project.” The LEED green building rating system is administered by the U.S. Green Building Council, a nonprofit coalition of building industry leaders. Other business leaders also spoke about the importance of "Green Practices." Visit LafayetteChamber.com for more information.

BeatBeat at Hunter's Down Under

2009-11-26T14:10:00.000-08:00

Justin Vining and the Purdue Beat Society at the LaLa Art Gallery and Studio

2009-11-22T09:23:00.000-08:00

Justin Vining and the Purdue Beat Society at the LaLa Art Gallery and Studio from Emmanuel Cervantes on Vimeo.

The 11th Annual Latino Heritage Show at Purdue University

2009-11-05T05:10:00.000-08:00

Delta Phi Mu Amazing Alpha Chapter celebrated their 11th Hispanic Heritage Show on September 18, 2009. According to Rhiannon Vela, former Chapter President, “The purpose of the show is to open up and let the Purdue students experience the Latino culture”. The show is celebrated during Hispanic Heritage Month, a period starting on September 15 and ending on October 15. This national celebration was enacted into public law on August 17, 1988.

It takes a lot of time and dedication to put on this show year after year. Active sorority members research the organizations on campus and seek donations from local community businesses. Performances are mostly from student-based organizations. Delta Phi Mu has been grateful to receive donations such as food from a variety of local restaurants and audience members. The show displays a variety of talents such as poetry readings, speakers and dancing. As Rhiannon puts it, “anything that displays and shows the Latino tradition is welcomed to perform for the show”.

Delta Phi Mu would like to thank everyone that participated. The ladies in Pink and Blue are particularly grateful for the support of the Latino Cultural Center. The Latino Cultural Center helps to find acts for the show as well as awards grants that make it all possible. The Latino Cultural Center was opened in 2003 to serve as a resource to Latinos/as to celebrate and enhance understanding of the Latino culture through history, accomplishments, growth, and empowerment. In serving this mission, the LCC strives to build a community for Latino/a Boilermakers and alumni to share their ideas and experiences to promote cultural awareness to the Purdue University campus and beyond.

Delta Phi Mu Sorority, Inc. is a Latina-based, inclusive sorority founded at Purdue University on August 28, 1991 by five Hispanic women: Guadalupe Acevez, Rosa Ana Fernandez-Mills, Sylvia Medellin, Annette Zoe Rosa, and Rosita Serrano. The Founding Mothers’ mission of empowering Hispanic professional women and other women through education has became a reality. These outstanding women sought to establish a foundation that serves as a home away from home to ensure that high standards of ethics and education are a unifying goal of achieving success in life. Over the years, the sorority has expanded to other universities, and welcomes women of different ethnicities and backgrounds to serve as support, guidance, assistance, love and friendship for one another.

It can all be summarized under Delta Phi Mu's motto: "La Esperanza del Futuro está en las Manos de la Mujer". For more information visit their website at www.deltaphimu.org.

Written by Cynthia Vinasco

Walk for the Wounded Warrior Project

2009-11-04T07:46:00.000-08:00

When: Sunday November 8th 2009 at 2:00pm
Where: start and finish at Tapawingo Park West Lafayette, IN
Distance: Approximately 5k

The Wounded Warrior Project is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing support and assistance to our returning warriors, male and female, from Iraq and Afghanistan. The WWP provides programs and services, such as benefits and counseling, family assistance, internships and much more, to ease their burdens and aid transition back to a successful civilian life.

Please make checks payable to: WWP c/o Dana Spencley

P.O.C. Don Page SSG/Army/USMC Ret.

Work (765)743-9665

Cell (765)418-1743

Home (765)429-6646

http://www.woundedwarriorproject.org/

Root Hog Plays the Lafayette Brewing Company on Halloween 2009.

2009-11-03T20:12:00.000-08:00

Halloween in Lafayette 2009

2009-11-02T06:58:00.000-08:00

Root Hog play the Riverside to celebrate the release of their new CD.

2009-11-02T06:45:00.000-08:00

Don't Miss Zach Vinson On Tour in Lafayette on 10/25-26

2009-10-24T14:42:00.000-07:00

So Much to Blame (Zach Vinson) from Zach Vinson on Vimeo.

See Zach Vinson at the Lafayette Theater on Sunday October 25th or at the Skylight Coffeehouse on Monday the 26th with local acts John Davey, Rick DeSutter and the Clutter, and Jordan Banks and the Years.

Visit http://www.myspace.com/zachvinson for more details.

ONE FAST MOVE OR I'M GONE: KEROUAC'S BIG SUR

2009-10-15T08:52:00.000-07:00

One Fast Move or I'm Gone: Kerouac's Big Sur, takes the viewer back to Ferlinghetti's cabin and to the Beat haunts of San Francisco and New York City for an unflinching, cinematic look at the compelling events the book is based on. The story unfolds in several synchronous ways: through the narrative arc of Kerouac's prose, told in voice-over by actor and Kerouac interpreter, John Ventimiglia (of HBO's The Sopranos); through first-hand accounts and recollections of Kerouac's contemporaries, whom many of the characters in the book are based on such as Lawrence Ferlinghetti, Carolyn Cassady, Joyce Johnson and Michael McClure; by the interpretations and reflections of writers, poets, actors and musicians who have been deeply influenced by Kerouac's unique gifts like Tom Waits, Sam Shepard, Robert Hunter, Patti Smith, Aram Saroyan, Donal Logue and S.E. Hinton.

In select theaters for one night only October 20 at 7:00pm local time. One of those local theaters is the Eastside 9 in Lafayette.

Sacred Spain - Ronda Kasl Interview

2009-10-13T22:18:00.000-07:00

Interview with curator Ronda Kasl. A Special Thanks to Carrie Wing for inspiring this video and entry.

Sacred Spain: Art and Belief in the Spanish World
October 11, 2009-January 3, 2010
Admission is FREE
Indianapolis Museum of Art
Visit imamuseum.org for Info

Final Bow - "A Streetcar Named Desire"

2009-10-13T22:09:00.000-07:00

Final Bow - A Streetcar Named Desire from Emmanuel Cervantes on Vimeo.

GreatLafayette.com proudly presents the final bow from the last performance of "A Streetcar Named Desire." The Purdue University production was directed by Richard Sullivan Lee and starred: Mariana Fernandez, Matthew David Gellin, Sarah Marisa Studzinki, Mick Papamihalakis, Bobbie Sue Ferrell-Brey, Joe Lee, Oge Agulue, Jhan Harp and Kim Vruggink. In the vidoe, the cast is seen being received after the show outside of the Nancy T. Hansen Theatre and taking their final bow on stage.

Uptown Jazz and Blues Festival 2009

2009-10-13T21:54:00.000-07:00

Check out a video done recently for Greater Lafayette Commerce and the Uptown Jazz and Blues Festival. The video features the music of the Danny Weiss Quartet, Fremont Jackson Funky Blu-va-Tron, and concludes with music and interviews featuring members of Frank Smith and the Jazz Giants.

Built to Spill in Bloomington, IN

2009-09-30T09:25:00.000-07:00

Something to see: "A Streetcar Named Desire" by Tennessee Williams at Purude Theater

2009-09-28T08:43:00.000-07:00

Purdue’s Department of Theater

“A Streetcar Named Desire”

Starring: Matt Gellin (Stanley Kowalski), Mariana Fernandez (Blanche DuBois) and Sarah Studzinski (Stella Kowalski)

Director: Richard Lee Sullivan

Show Times: 7:30 p.m. Oct. 1, 2 and 3; 2:30 p.m. Oct. 3 and 4

Location: Hansen Theater inside Pao Hall for Visual Performing Arts

Price: $12 for students, $19 for general public

Constitution Day - 09/17/09

2009-09-22T12:03:00.000-07:00

Young Americans for Liberty (YAL)- Purdue Chapter hosted a Freedom Forum on September 17th, 2009 in celebration of Constitution Day. A similar forum will likely be held on Wednesday October 21st. Visit YAL -Purdue Chapter online for more information about the group.

Mosey Thru Layflats

2009-09-14T20:45:00.000-07:00

Here are 3 videos from Mosey Thru Layflats. Prizzy Prizzy Please were standouts and Moonshine Mason and the Rot Gut Gang were entertaining as always.

Root Hog at the Riverside on September 19th, 2009

2009-09-11T21:47:00.000-07:00

Root Hog is seen here playing "Smokestack Lighting." They will be appearing at the Riverside Sports Bar and Music Center on September 19th for their New Album Release. Visit roothogmusic.com

Kickbush at CT Peppers 09/04/09

2009-09-08T14:32:00.000-07:00

The Bailout Revival Sings "Optimistic" by Radiohead

2009-08-25T05:33:00.000-07:00

During the August Edition of the Mosey Down Main Street, the Bailout Revival played a wonderful set. Those of you who are familiar with the Bailout and with this blog may remember that the Bailout were actually the subject of my first blog back in March. Back then the blog was called, "Take IN Lafayette." So much has changed for me in the few months since that first blog entry. I've recently started a new job at Media Art and Design Works in Lafayette and I'm starting to think that I'm going to be in Lafayette/West Lafayette for quite a while. Anyway, not much has changed with the Bailout Revival; they still rock! Enjoy this video and keep an eye out for more videos from the August Mosey. Also, videos featuring the Purdue Beat Society, Artist Justin Vining, and the LaLa Gallery and Studio, videos from Dancing in the Streets featuring Amanda Overmyer, and videos from the Uptown Jazz and Blues Festival are all in the works. There's probably a few things I'm forgetting, so check back to see what surprises are in store. Man I got a lot of work to do.

J-Roddy Walston and The Business

2009-08-03T04:06:00.001-07:00

Click Here to Hear: J-Roddy Walston and The Business Playlist

The Window

2009-07-24T16:21:00.000-07:00

In the following video you can enjoy a Sam and Maze story by Ryan Bidlack and see how the comic "The Window," is written and made. For more from "The Window," go to SamandMaze.com.

The Window from Emmanuel Cervantes on Vimeo.

Deas Vail at the Greyhouse singing "Shoreline" and "White Lights."

2009-07-17T11:07:00.001-07:00

Deas Vail made a stop in West Lafayette, IN. They played a set infront of the Greyhouse Coffee and Supply Co.

Excellent weekend to enjoy the Arts in Downtown Lafayette

2009-07-15T14:29:00.001-07:00

This is video of the July 2009 Downtown Lafayette Gallery walk. Included in the program are performances by circAFRIQUE, the Vagaband and art by local artists including Gwyne Bahler.

In this video we talked to Michelle Warren of the Almost Home Humane Society regarding the Mobile Adoption Unit and to Kier Crites about the Paws for Art event. Fredericks Martinez entertained the crowd with their song "Tonight We Dance. At the same time outside, a diverse group of vendors, musicians and performers took part in the July edition of the Mosey Down Main Street. Parental Discretion is advised.

A Belated Tribute to the King of Pop: Michael Jackson

2009-07-11T12:13:00.000-07:00

These interviews were shot the week of Michael Jackson's death. Just about everyone I spoke to had a positive story from their childhood to tell about MJ.

Jordan Banks - Marilyn 06/29/09 and "Don't Be Scarred" album review

2009-07-05T02:01:00.000-07:00

This was shot at the Great House, excuse me, the Greyhouse in the Chauncy Hill Village near the Purdue Campus. Visit http://www.JordanBanksmusic.com/ for more from the artist and visit http://www.Greyhousecoffee.com/ to learn more about one of the area's premiere coffee shops.

As Far as the album goes...I like it. As you can tell from the video, Jordan is reminiscent of the Lemonheads and the Gin Blossoms. It's excellent pop music. The album is well produced with a diverse line-up of songs that work well together. Buy the album on CD at a show, which includes the lyrics in the liner notes (although of course the album can be downloaded). I give it a 3 1/2 out of a High 5.

Squirtgun - Social 06/25/09

2009-07-03T17:30:00.000-07:00

GreatLafayette.com was there to see Squirtgun play "Social" at a show with Teen Idols, The Green Room Rockers, The Leftovers and Rattail Grenadier. Check out the footage from the show at the Muse in Lafayette, IN which featured all of the bands.

Videos! Videos! Videos!

2009-06-29T13:07:00.000-07:00

It was a busy week in Lafayette and the world. Check out these two happenings from the week and stay tuned for reaction videos on the biggest global happening of the week: the death of the King of Pop.

Iranian Vigil
On June 24, 2009 Iranian Students and Supporters rallied around the Purdue Memorial Mall to observe a moment of silence for those that have suffered and died in the aftermath of the Iranian election.

The Indiana Fiddlers' Gathering
This video was taken at the 2009 Indiana Fiddlers' Gathering in Battle Ground, Indiana. It features Darol Anger & Friends and The Bum Ditty Barn Dance Band from Lafayette.
http://www.GreatLafayette.com/ was at the 2009 Indiana Fiddlers' Gathering in Battle Ground, Indiana. This video features Darol Anger & Friends and The Bum Ditty Barn Dance Band from Lafayette.

Preview from "A Taste of Root Hog"

2009-06-26T20:38:00.000-07:00

Check out this preview from an upcoming video entitled "A Taste of Root Hog." We shot this video on June 20th, 2009 at the annual Taste of Tippecanoe. The video will be out soon and we are in talks with a cable program about making it available via Comcast. Check out RootHogMusic.com for Root Hog news and stay tuned to GreatLafayette for more videos.

A Taste of Root Hog Preview from Emmanuel Cervantes on Vimeo.

Summer is in Full Swing with Upcoming Festivals and Events!

2009-06-18T18:03:00.000-07:00

The first day of summer is this Sunday, June 21st, but the biggest party of the summer is one day earlier as the county celebrates the Taste of Tippecanoe. The Taste is the premiere festival of the summer and the area. Check out the festival's official website tasteoftippecanoe.org to see everything that's in store. GreatLafayette will be there to cover the event. Root Hog will be our hosts as we experience the taste through their eyes and get a front row seat to their entire set on the Crossroads Stage. The guys will take the stage at 6:15. Check out RootHogMusic.com for more info on this great band.

GreatLafayette.com will also be at the Hollyhock Festival at Centennial Park in the Historic Centennial Neighborhood on Saturday. The festival starts at 11 and the coverage will be part of the ongoing web series Tour de Lafayette. Check out TourdeLafayette.com, which is in development as we complete episodes.

Don't forget to attend these two events, look for upcoming videos and attend other upcoming events that will be covered by GreatLafayette.com. Future events include the Indiana Fiddlers Gathering taking place next weekend (June 26th-28th), The Stars and Stripes Celebration on July 4th, the July installment of Mosey Down Main Street on the 11th and Dancing in the Streets on July 18th. Enjoy the summer and Take IN GreatLafayette!

Trainlite Politiks

2009-06-16T09:03:00.000-07:00

Trainlite Politiks is proof that hip-hop music is alive and well! Since its beginning people have said this off-shoot of Disco would die off just like its predecessor, but here we are 30 years later listening to hip-hop at Riehle Plaza and doing the "Cool Whip!" Check-Check it out and hear "Cool Whip" and other new songs at http://www.myspace.com/trainlitepolitiks.

Mosey Down Main Street - June Edition

2009-06-15T16:50:00.001-07:00

Check out the footage from the last Mosey Down Main Street on June 13th. For those that don't know, Mosey Down Main Street is an arts, food, shopping and entertainment festival held on a semi-regular basis in Downtown Lafayette, IN. As the name implies, the Mosey takes place on Main Street, which is made entirely pedestrian-friendly. Musicians such as Chicago's Strange Arrangement, Indianapolis' Tonos Triad and Lafayette's popular The Idle Flatlands River Band and Fredricks Martinez all performed. I had the time of my life moseying down the street with my camera. Hope you all enjoy the video and come down to Main Street for the next Mosey which is on Saturday, July 11.

circAfrique

2009-05-29T15:25:00.000-07:00

The members of circAfrique celebrated drum master Dylan who had a birthday and is moving to Michigan; the occassion was doubly important. They play their drums at a fun cookout held in West Lafayette. The video was taken on a HV30 using a Jag35. See the Full HD version at http://vimeo.com/4905348 and see what else is up with the band at circafrique.com.

circAfrique from Emmanuel Cervantes on Vimeo.

Wabash College Graduation 2009 at GreatIndiana.blogspot.com

2009-05-27T13:01:00.000-07:00

My brother, Juan Carlos Venis graduates along with his friends at Wabash College in Crawfordsville, IN. This parody music video of Jamie Cullum's "Twentysomething," documents all of the events of graduation day 2009 at the all-male college. The video was shot on an HV30 using a Jag 35. The Great Indiana Blog proudly covered the event. See it at http://greatindiana.blogspot.com/ and at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DtkVXJtLVoU

Great Indiana Blog

2009-05-21T20:07:00.001-07:00

Check out my new blog intended to cover happenings in the rest of the state: http://greatindiana.blogspot.com/ . The first vid is up. It's called Tropicalia and it's a video covering a Brazilian party thrown in Indianapolis by artist Artur Silva and DJ Kyle Long. Hoosier State? This is your state!

New address, New Name and now in HD!

2009-05-19T08:07:00.000-07:00

TakeINLafayette is now GreatLafayette.com! The name was changed to be more inclusive of West Lafayette. So, to further include the West Side, I have chosen to feature Purdue University in the first High Definition episode.

Purdue - GreatLafayette.com HD Premiere from Emmanuel Cervantes on Vimeo.

Mike Altman and Liz Erlewine at the La La Art Gallery and Studio

2009-04-28T14:23:00.000-07:00

Check out the work of these two amazing artists. Also notice that this is a new video hosted through Vimeo. I believe the video quality is superior and I am looking forward to using this great service.

Mike Altman and Liz Erlewine at the La La Art Gallery and Studio from Emmanuel Cervantes on Vimeo.

Root Hog at the Lafayette Brewing Company with Shadyside Allstars

2009-04-27T19:44:00.000-07:00

Check out videos from Shadyside Allstars and Root Hog. I particularly recommend the Root Hog Part 3 video which is a cover of the Rolling Stones "Dead Flowers." This is one of my favorite songs and Root Hog does it amazingly well. It may be the only "punky rock/country honk," song of all time (I made that up).

Idle Flatlands River Band at the LaLa Art Gallery and Studio

2009-04-21T13:31:00.000-07:00

The Idle Flatlands River Band recently performed a concert at the LaLa Art Gallery and Studio in Lafayette. The show was part of the Purdue Sculpture Class Artist Reception, "Invading Space." Special thanks go to Carrie Wing, an artist in the show, for inviting me to this tremendous event. Additional thanks go to Liz Erlewine, the instructor for the class (who by the way has an exhibition coming up at LaLa herself), and to Angela Vinson the gallery owner and teacher for allowing Take IN Lafayette to cover the event. Check out the Idle Flatlands River Band perform in this video for an amazingly catchy song while people enjoy the wonderful art of these talented students.

Parks and Recreation, Observe and Report, and "Comedy Heartthrob" Aziz Ansari

2009-04-12T07:51:00.000-07:00

Parks and Recreation premiered this past Thursday on NBC. The very funny show is a mockumentary style sitcom by the creators of The Office. It stars Amy Poehler, Rashida Jones, Paul Schneider and Aziz Ansari and is set in the fictional town of Pawnee, IN. Much has been made of the fact research was done on Lafayette to create the fictional parks department. In a future installment of Take IN Lafayette we may investigate these similarities; in the meantime enjoy Parks and Recreation which can be seen on NBC on Thursdays at 8:30pm.

Observe and Report opened this weekend starring Seth Rogen, Anna Faris, Ray Liota and co-stars Aziz Ansari and Danny McBride. The movie is entertaining but honestly not all that funny. It has it's moments particularly those brought to you to by my newest comedy favorite Aziz Ansari. This guy cracks me up by just being on screen. Check out Observe and Report if you must, but you may have a better time catching up on what Aziz has done in shows like Scrubs, Human Giant, and Flight of the Conchords. Check out this hilarious clip of Aziz doing stand-up.

2009 Purdue Fashion Show

2009-04-07T09:34:00.000-07:00

The Department of Consumer Sciences and Retailing hosted the 2009 Purdue Fashion Show at the Ross-Ade Pavilion on April 4th. Take IN Lafayette talked to Ashley Hendzell about her dress design which was modled by Melissa Knoebel. Take a peak at this interview and see some highlights from the show.

Special Thanks to Nancy Strickler, Wes Cummins and Bill Callison for their collaboration and to Purdue University and its students; both the Consumer Sciences and Retailing students who organized and put on the show and the Film and Video Studies students who video recorded the event. A full-length DVD will be available for sale through Purdue University. Stay tuned for details on how to purchase.

The Shape of Things

2009-04-05T10:29:00.000-07:00

The Shape of Things was presented at the Carole and Gordon Mallett Theatre stage on the Purdue Campus. The play, written by Neil Labute and directed by Kristine Holtvedt, ran April 2nd through the 11th. For ticket information regarding future events call (765) 494-3933.

I had the great pleasure of seeing this wonderful play this weekend at a matinee performance. The Shape of Things is highly recommended to anyone that has ever done anything crazy for love; in other words everyone should see this play. The story takes place on a small Midwestern campus and is the story of 2 young couples. The Purdue production stars underclassmen Jordan Kubat, Mariana Fernández, Kaitlin Garrow and John Clauss. All four of the performers did a wonderful job at making this a very enjoyable experience. I first saw this play in New York with Paul Rudd and Rachel Weisz and fell in love with the story. It would be unfair to compare the performances of the two casts, but what I can say is that these four young actors could be well on their way to skills comparable to the stars of the New York production (the New York cast eventually made a film from the play).

However, what I will compare between the two productions is the spectator experience. In a way seeing 4 real college students on a real Midwestern college campus added realism that was not there when I saw the New York performance. Also the intimate staging made me feel very much a part of the story which is a central aim of Neil Labute's script.

Watch the following video tour of this intimate space with the four cast members who were gracious enough to take time between performances to speak with Take In Lafayette. Additional Thanks go to Stage Manager Frank Montel, Director Kristine Holtvedt and Director of Marketing David Lageveen for helping to make this episode possible. Now go Take In Lafayette and see a play!

Local Music Showcase Hosted by The Bailout Revival

2009-03-20T12:12:00.000-07:00

Let me start off by introducing myself, since this is the inaugural TakeINLafayette Blog. My name is Manny and it is my goal in the next few months to make TakeINLafayette a favorite and respected source for what's happening in arts and entertainment in the state of Indiana and this great area. Without any further hoopla, I present the first TakeINLafayette Blog.

I have to first thank my good friend Adam Rice for inviting me to the St. Patrick's Day event at the Lafayette Brewing Company. Adam is a djembe player extraordinaire and brand-new first grade teacher to a lucky bunch of Lafayette kids. Speaking of a bunch of Lafayette kids, the event was organized as a benefit for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Wabash Valley. Check out this interview where Pam Brettnacher talks about Big Brothers Big Sisters and how she and Jason Gick came together.

The night started off with traditional Irish bagpipes at the Lafayette Brewing Company. I don't know about you, but bagpipes give me goosebumps; I can't help feeling like I should put on a man-skirt. The Brewing Company has an amazing second floor which is huge and has several tables (dinner and pool) and a very expansive and springy hardwood dance floor. Take a tour of the LBC while enjoying some bagpipes.

The music showcase was kicked off by Ben Hagood. Mr. Hagood, you win the St. Patrick's Day Spirit Award! Ben was assigned “Hype Man,” duties by Bailout leader and Lafayette sound legend Jason Gick and he did his job with tremendous Irish Pride. Ben, dressed in suspenders and a driver's cap, looked like an extra from “The Departed.” He led the bar in celebration and Irish song, including a few of his own Irish-themed originals. Here's a highlight from Ben's set. It's a cover of The Police “Synchronicity II.” Of course, The Police is English, but on St. Patrick's day everyone is Irish, including Sting.

Next on the stage were the hosts of the party: The Bailout Revival. They were awesome. While I watched them and heard Jason say that he had been working the sound at the LBC for many years, it occurred to me that they definitely had a home court advantage (I have March Madness). My friend Tim Flagg called them, “the best band of the night.” If you watch only one video, check out this little music video starring The Bailout with interviews from the participants and scenes from the night.

Snorb! took the stage after The Bailout. The guitar/bass trio played a great set of psychedelic rock tunes. The following clip is their take on a Leonard Cohen song entitled “The Future.”

Chemcoma came on next, and what can I say about these entertaining bunch of young men and women... They did a ton of different things on stage including a few things I had never seen or heard before. All four members of the band take turns singing, which isn't all that unique, their female drummer is a little more unique, but their use of a large painted “A” certainly is very unique. They used this prop to gather around and scream “A!” A small mosh pit broke out during their performance which could have been one of the few times this has happened at the LBC (if not the first time). My favorite moment of the night came when Jason Gick joined Chemcoma and sang Cinderella's “Coming Home."

The night concluded with a reunion jam session by Lafayette legends PMG who where joined by an all-star lineup of participants from the Showcase. The best moment of the night came when PMG was joined by Adam Rice and Snorb! for a rendition of U2's “Bullet the Blue Sky,” complete with an Orson Welles-ian reading of the poem, which is in the song. It was excellent, and while it would have been nice to have video of the performance, I did not record it, but got to enjoy it as a fan. If you were there, you know how lucky you are, but if you missed it, here's another colaboration between The Bailout and Pat McClimans. Now go TakeINLafayette!