Sounds Good

Spirit of Mardi Gras, Sartin and Strings in the news
Jan Walker of Mardi Gras Southeast Texas reports “Spirit of Mardi Gras” is the theme for this 20th event.
“With it being the 20th Anniversary Celebration we felt like a broad theme was needed which would mean lots of different things to all who participate in the annual celebration” said Laura Childress, president of Mardi Gras Southeast Texas and Captain of Krewe of Aurora. “As a result of many discussions with Ball Captain Peggy Simon, it was agreed the theme for 2012 should be "Spirit of Mardi Gras." Knowing that Mardi Gras in Port Arthur is a special time for Krewe members and patrons of Carnival Weekend, what better way than a theme that expresses the general atmosphere of Mardi Gras in Port Arthur”!
Save the date for Feb. 16-20 in downtown Port Arthur.
Call 721-8717 or contact laura@portarthur.com for details.


Becky Ames, acting as executive director of Atria Collier Park in Beaumont, sent word that Kim Sartin, owner of Sartin's Seafood in Nederland, is serving as the new director of culinary services at Atria Collier Park, the assisted and independent living community for senior citizens.
She writes that restaurant is known for their seasoned blue crabs and relaxed atmosphere and has earned a number of.
“Most people don't think of culinary cuisine when they think of the menu at a senior living community, but Kim is using her vast culinary experience as a chef and restaurateur to bring an unexpected food experience to the local residents at Atria Collier Park,” Ames writes. “Her focus on using fresh, local ingredients to create old favorites and brain-healthy recipes is winning acclaim among the 150 plus residents, aka "food critics," that she now cooks for on a daily basis. She loves using her talents to make the residents happy and is thriving in her new position.”


Just Strings
Port Arthur got mention in the Healdsburg Patch web site of California, regarding the Just Strings Music Festival. It’s a jam session that drew Paul Soroski, whose latest project is the band Create a Monster. He brought his group from Austin. The story continues:
“We’re originally from Port Arthur, Texas,” said Soroski, “We’re the only modern rock band playing this weekend.
“Port Arthur is the home of Janis Joplin,” Soroski stated proudly, “Jason [Touchette] and I have been working together for 20 years.”
Blake Sticker, “a hotshot young guitarist, who has been making a name for himself in the Golden Triangle over the past few years,” has joined Soroski and Touchette in Create a Monster. Keith Slack rounds out the band.
“This is ZZ Top meets modern rock without the hair,” said Andrea Doyle.
ddoiron@panews.com