CalypsoNuts News Ticker

This is the original CalypsoNuts Logo from 1998

Where Dave?
West Point, Virginia
August 31, 2007

We always smile when the phone rings and the caller I.D. says "Dave Jacobson/ Royal Atlantic Entertainment". Dave always comes up with the coolest engagements for us and this time was no different. Tonight we were in West Point, VA. playing from 6-9pm on a flatbed trailer. 400 people from town came out for their Friday evening party. The local volunteer fire department showed up to steam shrimp and when they found out that there wasn't really a plan for lighting the event, they brought in the truck, extended the ladder and fired up the sodiums. The place was buzzing with neighborly fun and fellowship. Some danced, some ate and drank, some just chilled in their beach chairs, but everybody said they had a great time. West Point is Americana and we can't wait to go back

Morning Stars
Richmond, Virginia
August 25, 2007

So what do you say when they take you out of your closer position and ask you to play Saturday morning poolside? You say, "Sure, wherever you think we'll best serve the event". The rumors were all true. There was a crowd, they were ready to go, they were hungover AND there was 100 dozen fresh Krispy Kreme donuts. We found out that if the conga line in the pool works real hard to make a whirlpool and then relaxes and just floats on my countdown, they'll all be flung to the outrside and take out the people hanging on the edge. Funny! We also found out that if the crowd wants us to jump in the pool, their persistance will enventually pay off. 3 cheers to The Parrot Head Club of Richmond on another incredible multi-day event. Stars is a nationally known Parrot Head event, and rightly so.

How Will They Ever Top Piratestock?
Manassas, Virginia
July 7, 2007
Ally Taylor asked Rob (her hubby) what he wanted for his birthday and he said that he wanted all his friends to be together in one place and he wanted Tall Paul and Crawdaddy to play. No problem, but he also said that he wanted The CalypsoNuts to play. Ok, can do, but there must be something else right? Uh, yea, I'd, uh, like to have St. Somewhere play too even though they haven't played together since 2003. Well, he is a pirate and he is turning 40...so...the phone calls started and to make a long story short... The soire was called Piratestock, people came from as far away as Iowa, and all Rob's musical requests were satisfied.
The CalypsoNuts shared the day slots with Tall Paul and Crawdaddy poolside, then a little rest before St. Somewhere took the stage for the first time since 2003. All the Somewheres are great musicians in their own right, but when you put them on the stage together the magic starts to fly. All the old favorites were served up as if they'd never stopped playing together.
Crawdaddy and Tall Paul joined them at times throughout the night for classic St. Somewhere arrangements. Matt called Lynley and I to the stage during the Mailman song where Quincy handed his mail carriers shirt to Lynley and the song was officially bequeathed to us to protect and bring to the masses. Proud, proud proud CalysoNuts we are right now.
Being Lynley birthday too, her cake came out covered in white with the classic black Jolly Roger and a note saying something about a pirate wench was written in black icing. She had an awesome day!
Perfect timing and a little Matt Hall prodding, landed all the musicians filled the stage for A Pirate Looks at 40 and the big Rocky Top finale.
The night ended with Paul and Kristie, Lynley and I sitting at IHOP wondering what just happened and happy it just did. Pictures to come here and videos on you tube too. Not yet, but soon.

2nd Annual Panama City Parrot Head Rendezvous
Panama City, Florida
April 22, 2007
We never know what to expect when we show up to play a multi-day, destination party, but large Parrot Head events are always fun and they all have their own flavor and attitude. Well, the 2nd Annual Parrot Head Rendezvous in Panama City was indeed the fun filled event that wouldn't die. Things looked sketchy when they lost their venue, but the Days Inn stepped up and gave the Panama City Parrot Heads complete reign of their property. A beach stage and a pool stage made back to back live music a breeze. Entertainment included: Steve Youngblood, The Dockside Junkies, Sunny Jim, Brent Burns, Jack Mosley, Gene Mitchell, and The Nuts. The beach stage came complete with a hand dug lagoon (a 3'x6' water filled hole) to keep the adoring throngs from rushing the stage and ripping out Robbie's hair. uh.. ok, scratch the adoring and hair part, but there really was a moat..
The weather was perfect for a 3 day beach party and the little chill at night was controlled by three bonfires. If you left the beach, you had to carry a piece of wood to the fire as kind of a re-entry fee.
Parrot Heads from as far away as Wisconsin pretty much left the world behind for a few days and relaxed in true Florida Panhandle style and I'm glad we were a part of it.
As usual our cameras were the last thing on our minds, so once again we're asking for folks to email us shots from the event for a slideshow. You send 'em, we'll post 'em.
It's real nice to be chillin' on the panhandle with Tim and Betsy, it's been waaaaaay too long and that has to change.
UPDATE: 3 more shows on the panhandle. Seville Quarter in Pensacola, Fudpucker's in Destin and Paradise Bar and Grill in Pesacola Beach were all perfect spots to throw parties. Seville Quarter had $2 Landshark Lagers, Fud's had an Emerald Coast Parrot Head Chili cook off, and Paradise offered perfect weather and a perfect setting. We love the panhandle and all of our friends there. Take care of each other 'till we get back.

Another ~~Road~~ Cruise Journal
When the Deep Blue Sea Calls, We Say YES everytime!
March 2007

Journal for Eastern Caribbean Cruise aboard Costa Magica

March 1, 2007 2pm...Norfolk, VA.
Here we go folks! Another whirlwind adventure with The CalypsoNuts and Memorable Cruises and Vacations. Once again we'll be aboard Costa Magica and this time we bound for the Eastern Caribbean. As we push back from the gate, (the driveway) we're alerted to weather cells in the southern states that may bring us some rain between home and Miami. We'll meet Jimbo, Linda, Brad and Mandy in Miami for a pre-cruise party Saturday night and then up to Fort Lauderdale to board the ship on Sunday. Weeeeeeeeeee, hang on !

March 1, 2007 11pm... Walterboro, S.C.
400 miles down and the weather says stop. Rainy and very windy on I95 South through the Carolinas. News reports of Tornados in Alabama and that they're headed this way, so time to chill until it's calm. The plan is to make Miami by tomorrow evening, chill and meet up with the crew on Saturday before the party. For tonight, it's a Microtel on I95 South somewhere in South Carolina. Nite everybody!

March 2, 2007 11pm... Miami, Florida
Tada! Made it to Miami! The night air is filled with warmth and music from a mexican club next to the hotel. Aye Aye Aye, Arrrrriba Holmes! Found a place in S.C. on I95 that warranted a picture. The Squat and Gobble! What a name. Stopped at Wal-Mart for a few last minute, "Oh my God guess what I forgot" items and saw a car in the parking lot with a Parrot Head on Board sticker in the back window. While the folks were in the store we put a CalypsoNuts CD under their windshield wiper in a random act of Parrot Head. Hope they found it. Sushi dinner at an off the path place in Ormond Beach gave us the energy to push the last few hundred miles. Anyway, Miami is warm at 11pm and we're happy to be off the road and in the hotel. The rest of the crew shows up tomorrow and we play at Frankie's Hideaway tomorrow night with the Miami Parrot Head Club. Things are falling together quite nicely. Hugs from South Florida! Nite.

March 3, 2007 11:45pm... Poolside with Miami PHC and The Thirsty Parrot Cruisers
Craziness always follows us and our friends. Everybody got here, but most of their luggage did not. Randy Ackley has never been to San Juan, but as of today his luggage has. All was not lost though, I guess, hmm, must be a silver cloud somewhere. Ahhhhh, American airlines offered a $25 per day clothing allowance. Whoooopty-frickin-doo, what can you do with 25 bucks? Not much, not even in Tijuana these days.
Anyway, troubles pushed to the backs of their minds and looking forward to a party with Miami's Parrot Heads, The Thirsty Parrot Cruisers ordered and drank and ordered again. Woo hoo!
Frankie (owner of Frankie's) was a little more than nervous when we hauled load after load of gear through his bar into the pool area. "Don't worry Frankie, we have this much gear so we can turn it down, you see?". His nervous smile changed to a grin when the party got rolling and hotel patrons came down and joined in instead of complaining.
Jimbo and Brad broke it down to sax and percussion in the middle of Banana Republics. It was working beautifully so we let them go for a while until finally we built it up for a nice finale. Painting a musical picture is an incredibly powerful artform that is sometimes hard to pull off, but man, it worked tonight.
Lynley's pan work on Postcard and One Particular Harbor was perfect, she's really found out exactly how aggressively you can play these drums without hurting them.
Tomorrow we board the ship and set sail for the Eastern Caribbean with tons of friends. I really hope it doesn't sound cliché, but I wish you were all here with us, it's starting out to be a big bunch of fun and we love to share the fun. If we play on the ship like we played tonight, it's gonna be another big time aboard the Magica.
Many thanks to the following folks for making this party happen: Brenda and John and the rest of the Maimi Parrot Head Club members who came out; Frankie, the owner; The Hampton Inn and Suites for being very cool; John and Shirley Murphy for making the calls and doing the legwork for all of us; and The Thisty Parrot Cruisers for getting their party on after such a trying day dealing with airlines and their substandard customer satisfaction representatives.
Victoria from Carnival was at the party and is already talking to John and Shirley Murphy from Memorable Cruises and Vacations about an 8 day cruise to the Southern Caribbean soon. That's St. Kitts, Arruba, etc.. Count me in, and try your best to count you in.
Nite y'all, happy to be here, sad that you aren't.
Brad is snoring light, while Lynley and Mandy float on a tropical sleep cloud. I'm next, Miss ya, Nite. hope to dream of a round of video game golf with a hottie dressed in red.

March 4, 2007 11:45pm... Aboard Costa Magica
Cloudy skies were the theme of the day in Ft. Lauderdale, but all is well and we're underway, pointed toward the warmth of the Caribbean. The cabin is actually comfortable and the balcony overlooks our whole cruise. Same great top deck Calypso band as last cruise and Max (Cruise Director) is still here. Light-moderate seas tonight made dinner an adventure. Not bad really, just enough to remind us that terra firma is nowhere nearby and that we're at the mercy of Mother Nature and the ship's Captain. The gear is locked up in the hold somewhere, but we've been assured that it'll be at the stage area tomorrow by noon for a 1pm showtime. Still no luggage for some of our group and the word is that they won't see it until we get to San Juan on TUESDAY! Stopped in the buffet for a late salad tonight and ran into Gustavo. Gustavo was our head waiter on the last cruise aboard Magica and he recognized us after he took 10 seconds to figure out who was calling him by name on day 1 of the cruise. Although this is just our second trip aboard this ship, the familiarity of her makes it feel like a strange kind of homecoming. It's nice to be back onboard Magica and nice to feel welcomed by her crew.
The motion brings back that sleepiness that you can only feel at sea. Nite everybody, more tomorrow. zzzzzzzzzzzz

March 6, 2007 2am... The day was perfect, The night was too...
It's hard to remember all the events of such a good day. The gear was delivered to the aft pool like clockwork, by noon, but the 1 o'clock start time was pushed back by just a hair because of light rain. The hydraulic roof was closed and the gig went great. People were dancing, swimming, drinking, eating, and a few were semi-comotose of chaise lounges in the back. Dollar Wine was a hit, but Linda Kiraly needs a lesson or 2 when it comes time to "raise the tempoooh",, love her. Lynley's big solo thing was once again Mambo Italiano. With Magica being an Italian ship she tore the house down. Jimbo's was the back half of Black Magic Woman where percussion was the word of the day. Brad? We're Not Here For a Long Time, We're Here For a Good Time was saxophone city.
We all got a little solo time during our Reggae Breakdown and when it became Bob Marley's "Is This Love", the staff boogied right along with us. Qusetions: Playing tomorrow? Got cd's for sale? Why don't you stay onboard? Can I buy you a drink? Are you married? Answers: Nope, but we would.. Nope, but we should. We'd love to but the cats need their humans.Yes, please, 2 Captain and diets, 1 Corona, and a Limoncello straight up please. The cute one is married to the blonde girl, the sax guy's girlfriend is onboard cruising with us and Jimbo's Lovely wife is also here to help us Pullll Bacccckk.
Dinner? Awesome! It started with escargots and ended with Marscapone Mousse. Everything in the middle is a wonderful gastronomic blur. And, ahhhhhhhhhhh, no tab,we're all very happy.
It was 70's night in the Capri Lounge and Lynley & Gwen came in second in the twist contest. A late night stop at Jimbo and Linda's cabin for rrrrrrrrrrrum crrrrrrrrrrrrream over gelato was just the nightcap that was needed for what will be another good night's sleep out here on the big blue ocean. And another word or 2 about this man we call Jimbo. 8 years have gone by since we met him during a party gig at Outback Steakhouse where he an L chatted about the percussion that she was playing at the time. The chat resulted in Jim sitting in for a tune or 2 and then a gig or two.. A lot has happened in 8 years and Jimbo's been there for most of it. Love that guy.
Ciao Y'all, time for some sleep.

March 7, 2007 2:17am... Good Night San Juan
Wow, pretty incredible. Lynley's day started with a massage, a dip in the hot tub and a Piña Colada bought for her by crazy Spanish men vacationing on their bosses dime. Wopah!
Later in the day, Memorable Cruises and Vacations along with Costa Magica hosted a cocktail party. Free drinks are rare on a cruise ship, so an hour and a half's worth is not to be missed. Jimbo described and delivered prizes as we called off the winning tickets. He's more fun than a gecko in your shorts.
Afterward, Lynley and I jumped ship with Brad and Mandy for San Juan. A stop in Señor Frogs ended up with Lynley and Mandy winning a shot of Tequila for their participation in crazy stage games. And oh by the way... it was Mandy's 1st shot of tequila ever. She did fine. Nachos and other appetizers at a local restaurant fueled us for shopping where we stumbled across a Starbucks. Mandy is a Starbucks Barista in Virginia Beach so we had to stop in to see what was shakin'. She wanted to get behind the counter because they were doing it all wrong all wrong all wrong.
Linda and Jimbo decided to stay on the ship, have dinner and knock back a cocktail or two. A light attendance in the dining room offered the opportunity for them to hang out with our waiter, Elmer. The stories about the small world of ship life are pretty interesting. These folks are out here for 6-7 months at a time. Some leave families at home and they all look forward to finishing up their contracts and going home on vacation. Elmer left a wife and a daughter (Angel). Last time, we met a guy named Richard. He was going home for 2 months after that cruise. Well, Richard's back aboard and ironically after this cruise, he goes home again. Good for you man, you've been here 7 months, time for a break.
Back onboard we ran across the ship's only sax player, Guiseppe. He and Brad chatted about sax player stuff. Mouthpiece this and reed that, I think it was all some type of strange code, but it was nice to see an American and an Italian whose common ground is music. Lynley and a bunch of the girls hit the top deck for caribbean night line dancing and the limbo contest. Lynley, Winnie and Jessica danced non-stop for about 45 minutes. (Yes, there's video). Then Lynley joined the Limbo contest and was one of 4 winners out of 200 contestants! (Yes, there's video) Lynley is perfect. Smooooooooch baby! ahem, where was I?
Back underway and with San Juan growing more distant at our stern, we're thankful for the day we had and look forward to tomorrow in St. Thomas.
Buenos Noches y Adios, San Juan, we hope to be held again by your beauty.

March 8, 2007 2:14am... Paradise, St. Thomas Style
If we walked one block today, we walked 9 miles. The cab dropped us off downtown and then we walked from store to store to store. Great shops and great prices if you haggle. The sun was hot, so I think we burnt off some of the calories we took in earlier in the week. After what seemed like all day we came back to the ship to find we'd only been gone 3 hours. St. Thomas gets 2 thumbs up; it's a beautiful, sunny and an affordable stop for cruisers like us.
Tonight was Italian night onboard Magica. Dinner was interrupted by: That's Amoré, Volaré, and that unknown Italian Favorite that everybody conga lines to. The napkins were spinning above our heads and the whole place got up to dance and to watch the choreographed waiters dance Volaré. Well done Costa, you've made us smile again. Dinner led us right into the casino for a few minutes where I lost 40, Brad lost 40, Jimbo and Linda lost 40, Lynley lost 40 and Shawn won 400. Directly after the casino deposits, the Tarantella lessons began. Mandy grabbed Brad for the lessons and Jimbo grabbed Lynley. Brad and Mandy kept it straight and paid attention while Lynley and Jimbo (who had tilted a few before dinner) turned it into The Marx Brothers become Italian. (Yes, there's video). Little conversation time in the Grand Bar Salento and a few dances shared by Lynley and Luigi before we ditched for a late night green salad at 11:30pm. The best part was finishing the salad and walking right into the midnight buffet outside Grand Bar Salento. Polenta, Pastas to order, traditional Italian cookies, Canolli, and fresh fruit. Yes, we ate. (No there's no video.)
Back in the cabin, it looks like sleep's gonna come very easily tonight. A funny thing happened on the way to the forum is on TV and the motion of the ship is light and constant. With only 37 nautical miles between shore stops, we're cruising in low and enjoying the slow roll of the sea. All in all, it was another perfect day in paradise. Ask us about how to do it when we get home. Really! Ask us! All of a sudden Lynley and
I have the hot tips and direct connections to beat even the internet prices. You tell us where you wanna go and we'll do the work. With us in your camp and with you being our friends it's even easier to make time for a vacation and save while doing it.
The weather's been nice with just a sprinkle or two to take the edge off the heat. Miss all our friends at home but we'd rather you come her than us go there. I have to cook at home and it's warmer here.
Tomorrow Dominican Republic, tonight lala land. miss ya, sleep well! More news tomorrow. nite ya'll. zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

March 8, 10:38pm... Rolling away from the Dominican Republic
Today was nice. We woke up docked in The Dominican Republic. Started the day by jumping ship and heading to downtown to La Romana. What a place. Vendors were E V E R Y W H E R E! Hello mi amigo! Come in and check it oooooouuuutttt! You're my brotha! She's my sista! I'll give you the family price. Don't smoke? Start today! Cigars have vitamins! The favorite method of transportation in La Romana seems to be the motorcycle. Not Harleys or crotch rockets, but old school Honda and Yamaha 125s and 350s. It was crazy, but more than once we saw 4 people on 1 motorcycle. Dad driving, kid#1 on the handlebars and Mom riding side saddle with the baby in her arms. Wild.
Dinner? Awesome! Avocado salad with seafood, Pineapple boat with baked banana and pink coconut, Linguini with clams and garlic, Grilled Swordfish with olives and roasted tomatoes, Sirlion with Garlic Butter, Rack of Lamb with Mint Jelly. Dessert? Awesome! Crepe Suzette, White Chocolate Mousse with Raspberry Sauce, Cannoli with candied fruit, Cheesecake. Stop with the food already!!
Tonight the ship is rolling a bit and folks are weaving around like drunks. You can tell who is crew and staff because they're the only ones walking in a straight line. While the ships rocks and rolls, Linda hit a slot machine for $350 and Randy hit one for $1500! You don't see that every day on a cruise ship.
Tomorrow we dock in Grand Turk for some of the clearest water around. Night everybody, hopefully we won't get tossed out of the bed tonight.

March 9, 4:30pm... Grand Turk, BWI
The plan recently has been; get up get out, hit the island and be. Today was different. Docking at Grand Turk in perfect. When you get off the ship you don't have to take a bus to the beach, it's right there, you're docked 75 yards off the beach in crystal clear waters. Of course the pier leads you first to shopping, but that's ok too, we know how to say "No Thanks". Bought a shirt anyway! Lots of above average rums, tequilas and Whiskeys to choose from at nice prices.
Off to Margaritaville, Grand Turk for a libation with friends. A strange game called back to back was played by the DJ and Lynley was the winner! What a competitor! a swim up bar and a stage? Sounds like a nice place for a CalypsoNuts engagement. A walk down the beach yielded some cool coral pieces that'll become pendants. The water was perfect, not cold and not bathwater. You know? That kind of perfect! Back on the ship, tired, tanned, ready for dinner. More later.

March 10, 1:48am... Grand Turk in our rear view mirror
Dinner was nice tonight. 5:30 seating and 6:00 sailing made for a beautiful view of the tiny islands that make up Turks and Caicos. Lynley ate my Beef Tenderloin and I ate her King Crab. Being the last formal nightwe had Baked Alaska for desert. Brad's slice was nothing but Merengue, so Michael brought him another piece and he atew both. A little time in the casinos yielded nothing at all, so Lynley dashed off to Solento Grand Bar to dance with Luigi. A rhumba and a cha cha later it was time for the midnight buffet and trip through the galley. Awesome, but it left us with a empty spot.. Mandy, and ideas? "How about pizza and softserve in the Bellagio Buffet on deck 9? Folks,we left a buffet just to go to another buffet.
Tonight is done. Legs are tired from walking the beach, Lynley's crashed hard and I'm right behind her. Tomorrow is a sea day and that means The CalypsoNuts play a the adult pool from 1-4pm.. Life is good, Food is good, Diets suck. We're bringing the "A" game tomorrow I hope, Life is good, Life is good, Life is good. Night friends, see ya soon. much calmer tonight, perfect for sleeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeezzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

March 10, 2007... Now that was a day!
THE SHOW:: Today started really bad! Seasickness is no joke, just ask Lynley. Imagine feeling ill on a rollercoaster and not being able to get off. It hit her this morning before the show and for a while it looked like we weren't going to go on. Dramamine and Bonine and this and that and finally wrist bands with knobs for pressure points. One of them eventually worked and we hit the stage at 1:06, just 6 minutes late. The show was very cool! The back, adult pool deck is a perfect place for The CalypsoNuts, large enough to get a lot of people in, but small enough that it's still intimate. It rained early in the day, but as we started they drew back the roof and the sun streamed in. Beautiful! Anthony and the bartender's staff were back and the party was on. Can't believ how well received we were. It's easy to play a good gig, but great gigs only come along when we're really on and the crowd is really receptive. Today was great! Jimbo was dead-on! Good feel, good tone and all with a genuine "Glad to be here" smile. Brad was a big hit! His playing was a great accompaniment and has become an intergal part of our show. My playing was at its best today. What they got from me was all I had to give. Lynley was the big trooper. Her pan parts and singing was spot-free and perfect and the crowd never knew that she was dealing with motion problems. Looks like I owe her jewelry for her oscar winning performance and I'm OK with that.
THE TOGA TACO PARTY:: Toga cocktail party before dinner and then dinner and the Roman Show starring Julius Caesar and the cruise entertainers. Affordable Cruises and Vacations along with Costa Magica, sponsored yet another cocktail party for our group. This time it was Coronas, Margaritas, and Rum Punch. A taco bar was brought in so we could eat 30 minutes before we went to dinner! Sheeeeeesh! NO MORE FOOD! Jimbo and I, in fine toga form took control of the delivering of the presents. Corona Hats, CalypsoNuts t-shirts Stihl Drink coozies,Nelson Enterprises' various goodies, CalypsoNuts ink pens, stress ball, paperclip seperators, you name it, we gave it away. Last party's grand prize winner, Carol was offered her choice of a lt of Mango Rum or a lt of Orange Rum. Her pick was Mango so the Orange Rum went to the other big prize winner, WiinieFried Rabbio. We (Jimbo and I), say that we're always ROPED into doing the giveaways, but truthfully we really enjoy it. Off to the dining room and yet more food!.
DISEMBARKATION GALA DINNER:: Dinner was Awesome again; Tuna Carrpaccio with Chinese spicy relishglazed Virginia Ham, Roasted Chicken, Sirlion with Mushroom Sauce, 2 pastas, 3 soups, 2 salads, and DESSERT! Dessert tonight was: Cheesecake, Black Forrest Cake, Rhum Baba (Rum Spongecake), Tirimisu, Fruit and cheese. All this food was eaten by wild people in toags and variations of togas. 6 of our group had spiky blue wigs with their togas, making it appear as if the came from the set of TheFlintstones, Jim and Lynley added white gated togas garments and gold lamé to their togas this year. Lynley, Standard hottie toga, just add spikey spikey heels. I wore a purple-Romanish robe with my laurel leaf covered pith helmet and black dress shoes with dress socks. Great time, funny stuff, incomparable comaradery.

March 11, 2007... 1:31am...Down for the night until the 7:30am ejection.
Back at the room after a great show put on by the cruise staff and GLADIATORED by cruisers. Some folks sang, some danced, two people actaully played acoustic Guitar, Harmonica and sang Jambalya in English and French. The Gladiators did their thing and then the crowd decided if they were to go to the midnight buffet or to be eaten by the lions. The lions went hungry tonight. The contestants did pretty good and the lions weren't necessary.
Stopped into the 9th deck pizza buffet for a slice, and then went to the 3rd deck for ice cream and peaches boiling in syrup, just before we went back to the 9th floor buffet for soft-serve one last time. Buffet to buffet to buffet, man it's getting bad. Get me off this ship before I ask Lynley for a soft serve machine for Christmas.
The gear is in the hold and just when you think you have it figured out, they change procedure on you. Not Costa, US Customs! Instead of all 40 pieces of our gear staying in their cages and being forklifted to our van, now, all the gear is treated just like luggage and put, loose, in with the other luggage. I can see a pain in the butt getting ready to happen. We'll see if the custom agent on duty has had his "Happy Customs Guy" pill tomorrow morning. He has the power to make our day heaven or hell.
Saying goodbye to Costa always gets us a little melancholy. Although we know it's time to go home to life and our cats, it's awfully tempting to pitch Costa about being the purveyors of fun at the back adult pool.

March 11, 2007 9:46pm... I95 North, 242 miles from home
Wow, it's hard to believe that the week is over and we're almost home. It went so fast that it feels like we just boarded the ship yesterday. At 8am Lynley marched us all to the front of the disembarkation line and security let us butt in so we could get to our gear. Although the gear was cageless and mixed with luggage, it was all together. 5 porters, with their trusty hand carts, whisked the whole pile right to the customs agent where once again Lynley worked her magic. No questions asked and we were through and curbside in seconds. We tossed the gear in the truck, hit the road and for the first time in a week we paid for a meal. Now, 13 hours later, we're running the week through our heads and loving it. The compliments were awesome. It always amazes us how music and entertainment can help people have a great time. We love what we do and we love how it affects people. Thanks to all the folks from: Baltimore, Hampton Roads, Philadelphia, Toronto, Quebec, Italy, Mexico, Cleveland, Akron, Ontario, Colorado, Miami, Ft. Lauderdale, North Carolina, Washington DC, Boston, Georgia and I know I missed some, sorry.
What a great week that started with the Parrot Head Club of Miami and ended with just the two of us and our GPS in the big white van. Gonna be good to see our fuzzy faced kids. Thanks everybody for a great time. R&L
<<<click here for pictures>>>

A New Year, A New Start
Norfolk, Virginia
2006 becomes 2007
Happy New Year to all of our friends and family and Happy New Year to all the people of the World. The changing of the year always sparks resolutions and plans, but it also causes rememberence and reflection. Although our first "official" gig was October 1998 in Virginia Beach, the first time we hit the stage as The CalypsoNuts was at The Hard Rock Cafe during the 1998 Parrot Head Convention in Key West, Florida. Many things have changed since then, but one thing remains the same- we love what this life brings and our lives are better because you're in it. We look forward to 2007, it's certainties, uncertainties, and fun times.
Happy New Year Everybody!

What time is it? It's Island Time!
Berea, Ohio
December 2006
WBWC is located on the campus of Baldwin Wallace College and every Monday night from 10pm until 1am it's Island Time. DK King hosts Island Time Radio and plays the stuff that hammock loving kinda people like. He also has musicians stop in to play a few on the air and talk about what's going on. Last night was his annual Christmas show and he featured The CalypsoNuts and Santa Chuck Cornwall. This is our third Christmas show and Chuck's sixth.
We rolled into Stow, Ohio Late Sunday night and snuck into Patti McCoy's house while she was sleeping. We cracked open her bedroom door and whispered, "Honey, we're hoooooome". He answer was basically, "Hi babies, love you, you know where everything is, Goodnight". We love her.
We spent Monday in Hudson with Lynley's dad until Patti met us to go to the radio station. She's gone with us every year and we'd be lost without her. She knows the way there and she always stops at Panera Bread for coffee stuff and a nibble, so we gotta have Patti.
Got to the station early and camped out in the hall like homeless musicians waiting for a gig. The early night DJ welcomed us to come in, but we had to let out the steam, tune up and run over Bama Breeze which I forgot anyway.
Show starts at 10 and here comes DK at 9:53, just enough time to hit the seat, say hello and fire up the news. We talked a bit about Meeting of The Minds and how we must get to Put in Bay next season. Lynley's ready an she makes the travel arrangements, so let's go. Bama Breeze was 2 voices, a lead pan and an acoustic guitar live through 2 studio mikes. Lynley's playing was sweet, her hands are really pretty. My guitar playing was fine, but the lyrics went like this, "At The Bama Breeze, you can .....uuuuuhhhhmmm....hahahaha". God, didn't we just go over this 14 times in the hall? We (I) recovered fast and from then on the song went fine.
We were joined around 10:45 by Santa Chuck Cornwall and his guitar. Bald still, and he still has his loud "HoHoHo, you'll shoot your eye out kid", but this year's difference is that after many many years, he has retired from his day job. Chuck does 3 things these days, he golfs and gigs and smiles. He and Lynley played Barometer Soup while I took pictures and answered the show's email and request mail.
We got a ton of emails and that really makes us feel good, 6 or 7 from friends in Virginia, Dr and Mrs. Burns from Nags Head, NC on the Outer Banks, Several from Florida, Maryland, Georgia and one from Chief Petty Office Ian Chase serving aboard USS Dwight D. Eisenhower currently in the Persian Gulf Region. I guess the internet is as vast as we all think. Stay safe Chief and come home soon. Godspeed.
All too soon it was Oh-Vah! The songs were sung, The stories told. Giveaways helped reclaim sq footage in our dining room at home. Emails were read and phone calls were answered. It was OOOOOH-VAAAAH! We know what that means. It means it's 1:30am and time to go around the block to The Eastland Inn. We were the only 5 folks in the place but she stayed open, made us 3 dozen wings, and brought beers and diet cokes to toast DK and his 7th year at the helm of Island Time Radio.
I don't think DK really understands how important he is to Trop rock musicians and entertainers. If The Big Stations aren't gonna play Buffett, Peter Mayer or Fingers Taylor, they're never gonna play The CalypsoNuts or Tropical Soul or Latitude, or A1A, or Chuck Cornwell unless it's on a specialty show and those went away with the Hula Hoop.
As DK the DJ says, "Tune in, Chill Out" <—click here

Back to the Panyard and Back in Tune
Akron, Ohio
December, 2006
Whenever we come to Ohio to see Patti or Dad, or to play with DK the DJ, we always take some time to stop in and see the guys and the angel at panyard. Steve Lawrie built our lead and seconds and he's the only person who we want to tune them. Granted, these pans don't slip very far from pitch, but it is nice to have them gone through and have their song brought back. The get here in tune, they leave here SINGIN' BWOY! Still the absolute best in the world of pan technology and innovation, these people still offer their top of the line, solid hoop pans as well as an import series that will make players who use smaller 55 gallon Trini drums look real close before sending their money overseas again. Panyard is also the only place we can get hard to find cds from the masters of pan and calypso. Check out www.panyard.com for info and mention The CalypsoNuts. This service announcement has not been paid for and we don't receive squat for it, but maybe they'll discount our next tuning.

Road Journal for Meeting of the Minds 2006

October 29, 2006 5am...Dunn, NC
And awaaay we go! After playing tonight at Summer's Past in Virginia Beach, we pointed the van South for Key West and the National Parrot Head Convention that somehow has become known as The Meeting of the Minds. This is our 10th year as part of the entertainment roster and that makes us very proud. 5 am now and we're in Dunn, NC., chillin' for the night and hopefully doing the rest of the drive tomorrow. It's nice to get a couple hundred mile head start and get VA route 58 out of the way. Tomorrow it's I95 South to US 1. Sleep well y'all, we'll keep in touch with stories from the road. Much love.

October 30, 2006 3am...Cayo Hueso, Key West, The Rock, Isle of Bones.
Wow, made it! US1 South is an amazing drive. A slow and steady cruise through the chain of islands called the Florida Keys is the only way to get here. Try to fly down the road and Johnny Law will getcha like he got that guy in the Mercedes back around mile marker 40. Lynley loves to drive so she did about 800 of the 1100 here. Weather is perfect, but we miss ya already, kinda. Traveling the roads instead of the skies lets us see the crazyiness of everyday America. Today it was a restaurant in GA called the Squat n' Gobble. Might just have to stop there on the way home. First gig tomorrow from 2-6 at The Conch Republic Seafood Co. and then some gutter time on Tuesday. Nite all, more mañana.

October 30, 2006 11pm...Ahhhhhh, look,,,,,a bed.
Back to the Conch Republic and it was very nice.The new PA sounds real good there and the crowd seemed to be diggin it. Lots of compliments and we were proud. Parrot Heads were there in force. Rum and cooked animals were too. Key West pinks are in season and when they're steamed just right the taste a little bit like lobster. These were indeed steamed right. Went with Paul and Cherri to Willie T's for dinner. Awesome as usual. Seafood Quiche with scallops, lump crab, pink shrimp and swiss. Jerk chicken. Broiled Swordfish. And I had sauteed yellow tail snapper with citrus bur blanc. Mojitos and a hot tub ensure early and deep sleep. Lynley and I are snugglin in on the loft and we'll be lucky to be awake another 4.36 minutes. Nite friends, sincerely wish you were all here with us. zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

October 31, 2006...8:30am
Up way to early today... rooster's you know.hahahahahaha.

October 31, 2006...Halloween in Key West
After lunch at Hog's Breath and little time around the hot tub, we got it together for a night off in Key West. Lynley did the cat woman thing and did it right.(pictures to come). We wanted to see Sunny Jim and David Waugh so we just decided to have dinner at Conch Republic. The food was awesome and so was the band. We never new how pretty Coconut Dave's hands were. His playing is great. Early night for me, but Lynley stayed out on Duval and soaked up all the "meow" comments. She was hot and the people let her know. Gigging tomorrow at Conch Republic from 1-5, should be a real good time.

November 1, 2006 10am... Early is nice down here.
Up at 5am and off to the circle K store so Lynley would have cream for her coffee. The locals are up early and out taking care of the necessities of life. Smiles and light chit chat tell me that the folks down here really are one human family. It's nice and I could do it in a heartbeat. Light and scatted rain this morning, but that'll change. We can tell when it starts and stops because of the tin roof on the cottage. This is a must stop on the official CalypsoNuts guide to life. Thunder just now and I'm smilin'. Off to the hot tub.

November 1, 2006 11pm...Wow, oh wow, oh tropical wow!
The rain came down today in gimlets. Wait, that's not right, or maybe it is. Anyway...we showed up at Conch Republic today and setup was severely delayed by what I like to call Liquid Sunshine. A noon start time became a 2 o'clock start time, but no one was bothered. Rain happens, and sometimes in a big way! Finally it cleared off and the game was on. Even when things are physically soggy, the atmosphere at Conch Republic is always sunshine, party, dry, happy, smile-y, mojito-y, chowder-y. Get it?
Dinner at Jose's Cantina with Mike and Rene Ripa was nice. Whole fried yellow tail with sliced onion and fresh lime, black beans, yellow rice and plantains for 20 bucks. Damn, you don't see that every day here.

November 2, 2006 10pm....It just gets better
Light rain during the day made things soggy again today. 2 hours before we were scheduled to go on the heaven's opened up. Crazy rain! It was dumpin'!! The beach gig acts at The Casa Marina were moved up onto the large covered patio and things went on as planned. Kind of hard to believe the energy that the crowd gave us to work with. It was pretty amazing. Harry Ellis (The Corona God) was in town and brought us a pile of hats, tees and leis for the crowd. Yay! We're absolutely wiped out from the gig and if we're awake another 20 minutes I'll be suprised. Wish everyone was here, it really is paradise.

November 3, 2006 4am
DAMN ROOSTERS

November 3, 2006 2pm... Half a Day, Half a Done
Back at the house on Thomas St. and chillin' for a while. We played at The Conch this morning at 9am for the Club Leaders Brunch. Very nice time and very possibly our favorite gig of the year. We play on the main stage as Parrot Head Club leaders file in for breakfast, a meeting and a video message from Jimmy Buffett. During the meeting, Bill Wright (president of PHIP) made the announcement that The CalypsoNuts are the longest running musical act of Meeting of the Minds. That was touching, we had no idea. 1998 was our first, wow. Gotta go get Lynley (she's shopping), and get back to The Conch for our 3:30-6:30 show. More later.

November 3, 2006 11:59:46pm... Another Day laced heavily with smiles and Lobster Bisque
This afternoon was absolutely magic at The Conch Republic Seafood Company. Don Middlebrook finished up at 3 and he had the crowd 100% primed and going. At 3:30, we took the stage and almost immediately brought Tall Paul and Crawdaddy up to do 3 or 4 tunes. You really need to check out what these great guys are doing. (www.tallpaul.com) . Last Train to Kitty Hawk is not only one of my favorites, but now it's a favorite of Key West visitors too. Later, we saw Dave Lapio (www.pandave.com)walking down the dock and he graciously joined us onstage for Party Time. He's a great player and a great person to boot. Last but not least, we were joined by Gerry Maddox(www.IslandGerry.com) for a couple tunes. Nice to see Gerry in Key West, he's a real team player and always a crowd favorite.
Tall Paul and Crawdaddy played a little later at The Bottle Cap, so we popped in for the back half of their last set and did 3 Little Birds with them. Stopped in Monte's for the Jimmydreams.com 10th Anniversary party and then over to Schooner Wharf where I jumped up on the stage and pretty much pantsed Dave Lapio. How was I to know he wasn't wearing a belt. The day is done, so am I and the pillow is whispering my name from across the room. Maybe I should go see what it wants.

November 4, 2006 9:30am... Up and at 'em, Atom Ant!!
I checked to see what the pillow was saying last night. It said, " Kill the chickens, Kill the chickens". Hahahaha, actually they're quite calm this trip, although the others in the house up front aren't feeling the same chicken vocal courtesy that we are. From the loft I can smell Lynley's coffee, and that means it's time to wash the island off this body and get to the Rum Barrell for a gig with Tall Paul and Crawdaddy. This will be the last show for this trip. Tonight and tomorrow are relaxation with no "schedule" to worry about. We'll be able to just loll around with friends. My turn in the freeze, scald, freeze, scald, rinse, repeat, water torture machine. Rolling! later ya'll

November 5, 2006 1am...W is for wow!
What if you threw a party and no one came? Well,,,we don't know. The Rum Barrel was packed today. Parrots, Pirates, locals and vacationers came to the Tall Paul, Crawdaddy, CalypsoNuts show on the roof. Amazing, amazing, amazing how music can bring people together like nothing else. A light drizzle threatened the third set, but quickly blew off. Had a really nice group of Parrot Heads from home and also from other parts of the country stop in to see what was going on. Lynley and I hung out tonight with Tall Paul, Kristie, Crawdaddy, The Ripa's, The Taylor's, and a bunch more. Off to the drag show at 801 Bourbon Bar and then LOTS of walking. Margaritaville, Schooner Wharf, and then Hog's Breath. As of now, part of the gang is still at Hog's Breath watching Hugo Duarte with Fingers Taylor. Lynley and Kristie are once again dancing their legs off on Duval, Paul is foraging for late night sustanance at Margaritaville and Crawdaddy is most likely onstage somewhere harp in hand. Me? hahahahah, Slice of Pizza from Angelina's and a cab ride back to the house with Patti. She's outta here at 6am for the frozen lands of Ohio and I think I have a date with the hot tub. Love my wife and love my life. What a great time.

Here, There, and Home!
November 11, 2006.....late
Sunday in Key West was nice, We hung out wit Tall Paul , Kristie and Crawdaddy for most of the day. Stoppped by Blue Heaven and played a couple from the rooftop for Sunny Jim's "Songwriter's Brunch". Left the island, headed to Miami and jumped aboard Carnival Fascination for 4 nights of R&R. The stories are many and long, I'm sure we'll bore you with them when we see you. Finally home and just in the nick of time, we play a double starting in about 12 hours. Off to sleep and back to the stage. Rah Rah sis boom bah, keep smilin' Y'all!!!!Once again, many thanks to All the PHIP folks and MOTM commitees for the sometimes thankless hours of design and planning, without them the memories would never happen. Hey Ally, YOU ROCK! We have no idea how you pull it off at Conch Republic every year, but we're proud to be a part of your entertainment line-up. zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

Ivor, Virginia
White Tail Park Gets Nutty
August 19, 2006
We jumped in the van and pointed it toward White Tail Park and the unknown waters of playing at a nudist resort. What to expect? Is it gonna be wierd? Are these people for real? What's up with this whole thing? Nude? Really? No really?
After 3 minutes of pulling through the gate into the resort, it was just like any other party with two exceptions: 1, these folks were naked and 2, they know how to have a good time. Miniature golf by the pool, a crazy version of a dunk tank, grills going 90 miles an hour, homemade boat races in the pool and The CalypsoNuts on stage. What a great time and what a wonderful welcome from incredible people who don't waste a lot of money on silly things like clothes. Cameras are normally a no no, but when we asked for volunteers to take a picture for our web site, people were more than enthusiastic. Hooray to you White Tailers, we had a fabulous time!

Corona VIP Party
Party at the End of the World aka Dust Bowl Crazy
August 2006
With Jimmy Buffett in Manassas, Corona once again brought out the coolers and the grills for the now annual "Party on the Hill". We pulled into the parking lot at Nissan Pavillion at just after noon and the place was already starting to take shape into a 102° Parrot Head Party Zone. A constant (or almost constant) breeze on top of the hill kept it bearable and guaranteed that folks would leave the still air of the lower lots and come to visit.
It was conga lines and cold Corona and Chip 'N Whales and CalypsoNuts tattoos and a parking lot full of fun. Oh, and it was dusty. Not a little bit dusty, we're talking lung fillin', eye stingin', ear cloggin' all one color people-in' dusty! The party quickly got into high gear and stayed there despite the dust.
Brad Brewer, The Chameleon, was in the dust bowl with us. He's a team player, but he may regret his decision to join us just a little bit when it comes time to clean his horns. Tall Paul and Crawdaddy from Tenessee came out after their gig across town. It was game on after that. Paul's voice and Crawdaddy's harmonicas made the day even that much nicer. All that was missing was Paul's Lola. We were told that she had things pressing in Nashville, but we think she was afraid there was going to be pancakes. Sorry, inside joke.
All in all it was a great day. Harry Ellis and his Corona Party Posse threw another great shindig. The Ripa's came in from Upstate NY.. Paulio Artrip MADE us a mist system for the tent. Brad and Mandy saw their first Buffett show. Parrot Head friends from all over were there. A few pirates were there as well. And Oh by the way, Jimmy Buffett put on what we thought was his best show in ten years.
'Round and 'round she goes, where she stops nobody knows!

New Toy News
1924? Really? Well, That's What the Title Says
August 2006
The Newest Nutmobile is here. Is it a 1924 Ford Model T 4 door sedan? Well, that's what's on the title. Actually it's a 1915 Dodge Brothers that was made in 1981 and has just enough 1915 to make it all legal. I guess you can say it's a 636 V16 because it has two 318 Dodge engines mounted in-line. Crazy crazy crazy! Porsche front suspension with a 4 link rear suspension, it's better made and safer than most of the stuff made today. Lynley loves it and I think she loves the attention that comes our way whenever we're out in it. Already dropped the transmission and the radiator, but isn't that what hot rods are about? New tranny and radiator are on the way and that'll get us back on the road. Trying to find a trailer so we can take it to Key West this year. Any ideas? Click the thumbnails for full size pictures of this yet un-named beasty.
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psssst, click here for more information and journal,, shhh, it's secret.

Another Road Journal
Deep in the Heart of Texas
July 2006

CalypsoNuts Road Journal for the cruise aboard Costa Magica

April 7, 2006 4pm ...and they'rrrrrrrrrrre off
Once again we kiss the cats, lock the back door, count our blessings and our socks, and head off for the life of the gypsies known as The CalypsoNuts. This time we're headed to Florida for a party in Fort Lauderdale and 3 shows aboard Costa Magica bound for Key West, Cozumel, Grand Cayman, Montego Bay and Freeport.

April 8, 2006 4am ... and whoa horsey
Day one was a piece of cake. Light traffic, dinner at Cracker Barrel and 12 hours puts us here in Jacksonville. Holiday Inn, Holiday Inn, no room at The Holiday Inn, so Lynley books us at The Crowne Plaza Riverfront. They didn't charge us for parking, they only charged us their day rate and TempurPedic beds are the absolute bomb. Tomorrow? Ft. Lauderdale and party with the Parrot Head Club of Tidewater. All is well and our world is once again being cradled by the arms of great friends. nite y'all,,,,zzzzzzzzzzzzz.

April 8, 2006 11pm FT. Lauderdale
Played tonight at The Bahia Cabana in Fort Lauderdale. Huge outside bar with different areas and stages. People are excited and ready for sure. It's cruise ship this and Island time that. AmeriSuites was no fun though. We and most everybody else got our rooms, but the hotel overbooked and some had to find lodging elsewhere even after showing their confirmations. The poolside gig went good. We started with the Club Trini song "Party Time" and it just kinda set the Island Hoppin', Fizzy drink drinkin', Slow life downin', quick teach me how to say "Mon", mood that's necessary if you wanna have fun aboard a cruise ship. The day is done and so am I, nite children! More Mañana.

April 9, 2006 11:30pm ...out on the briny
Well, we're onboard Costa Magica and underway. As of now, we're off the coast of Key Largo bound for Key West. The Terminal was a breeze, and the gear got onboard very easily after Lynley found the right person to talk to. Today at 5, Costa threw the parrotheads a private party in Spoleto Lounge. It was basically a lounge that wasn't being used at the time, but Manhattans, Champagne and Martinis were free and it was a nice time for folks to exchange the first of many stories. Tomorrow's our first gig onboard. Noon til 3pm on the pool deck should be a whole lotta fun.This cruising thing is addictive and we recommend it completely. Early night for us because if the early start tomorrow. We only hope our shipmates are having as much fun and wish all of our friends at home were here with us. It's wonderful out here, G'night y'all.

April 10, 2006 late night...Not enough letters in "WOW"
As the ship woke up today we were docked in Key West. A shiny, sunny day with a light breeze made the beginning of day 2 very nice. With a 12:30-3:30pm gig time, setup had to start a little early. The party stage is all the way aft on deck 9, but our gear was all the way foreward on deck 12. 3 decks and almost a thousand feet? Bring on housekeeping! Like army ants, these guys who barely speak English, showed up and carried ALL of our gear to AND from the gig. Amazing! With first impressions being lasting impressions, we knew we had to bring our "A" game. I had mine, Lynley had hers and Jimbo (now known as Chicklet), had his in a big way. I hate to brag, but dammit, we were good today! Two conga lines were working - one on the deck and one in the pool. John Downing from Flagler Beach Parrot head club got ahold of our temporary tattoos and was plastering them on everybody including the ship staff. Our assistant waiter at dinner pointed to his own arm and said, "Good show, see you Friday". The support we got from our fellow cruisers was great and their enthusiasm created a party that caused an even larger party. Even the bartenders were boogying as they made drinks. With the show over, we sat on the deserted pool deck with John Murphy from Memorable Cruises and Vacations and relaxed as we watched Key West disappear at the stern. See why I say, There aren't enough letters in wow?
A quick note about dance contests on a cruise ship. If Lynley and Billy Goodson enter, don't even waste your time competing. They won the twist contest hands down with all the craziness of a comedy show.
Now, once again the gentle roll of the ship drops me into the kind of deep sleep you can't experience on shore. More tomorrow from Cozumel. Nite, y'all, miss ya, but not a whole lot yet.

April, 11 2006 9:30pm... All's well in Cozumel
With sleep still in our eyes, we stumbled onto the balcony this morning and were greeted by the bluest blue on earth. The water off Cozumel, Mexico is a blue that can't be shown in paint or photo. It's a blue that you'll never forget though. Almost black in the deeper spots and clear white turquoise in the shallow areas. You can see the bottom in 60 feet of water.
Jimbo (aka Chicklet), Linda, Andy and Bonnie Harrell, and the two of us went to Carlos and Charlie's for a cocktail. Good idea and bad idea all in one fell swoop. After yards of Margaritas, Pancho (yes, his real name) brought out the homemade sangria and made us drink it. Pictures were taken and may surface soon. Woo hoo, let's go shopping! We haggled with vendors for a little fun. Andy and I double teamed a guy and got 5 really nice cuban cigars for 25 bucks and saved Bonnie a ton on a coconut wind chime thingy. Early dinner and early snooze tonight, but we may see the night life after this much needed nap.
[editor's note] night life never happened. hahahahaha, Life is Good! zzzzzzzzzzzzz.

April 12, 2006 10pm...Georgetown, Grand Caymen
More of that incredible whitish blue water today and not too hot, so we tendered over to the island and bummed around a bit. Grand Caymen is beautiful, but it's busy and very expensive. Spent an hour or so shopping and came back to the ship.
Dinner on the ship was the highlight of the day. Being an Italian ship, it's no wonder the italian food is top notch. Just before desert, the waiters started waving napkins in the air and all of a sudden it was showtime. That's Amore' and Volare actually make good conga line tunes. Yay! Big fun! Ate too much, movie in the cabin, sleep too early, sheeeeesh, give me my late nights back.
Gigging tomorrow night in the Capri Lounge, gotta be rested and ready to go for a 10pm-1am slot in a very pretty lounge. Nite y'all, we'll see you way too soon.

April 13, 2006 4am...Montego Bay, Jamaica?
Sometime before dawn. I opened my eyes and looked out the window. We're already here? The lights of Montego Bay were twinkling like something out of a Hemmingway novel. Is this paradise? I must be dreaming. No, really, I must be. Back to sleep for a while until the island, the islanders and the tourists wake up.
April 13, 2006 4pm ...Yes, Yes, Montego Bay
I wasn't dreaming! Into town, bought rum, bought junk, more junk. Haggled with shop owners. We went to Margaritaville for lunch and met 15 people from our group of cruisers. Conch soup, Jerk Chicken and chilled shrimp that were so hot that; #1 Andy gave away his last 4, and #2, I ordered MORE! Yikes. Veggie Gumbo and a tall margarita for Lynley please. Playing tonight in the Capri Lounge, so here comes another nap. more later. zzzzzzzz
April 13, 2006 late night ...Too Much Fun
The Capri Lounge was unusually busy tonight. Here's what happened. We set up and the Parrotheads came in. That's all it took for the party to start to grow. We did more of the islandy stuff on deck and more of the show stuff in the Capri Lounge. Smiles, laughs, craziness and even Lola made an appearance. Now remember, what happens on the deep blue sea, stays on the deep blue sea,,,,,but,,,Kurt Von Gehr looks nice in a flowery head lei, grass skirt and coconut bra. What a fun time and what a nice response we got from our friends, other vacationers and ship crew and staff. One more gig tomorrow. Hard to believe it's already Thursday night.

April 14, 2006 ...Another day in Paradise
Played today at the adult pool. A wonderful time. Really. Performing on this ship is a pleasure. From the time our gear entered the ship until after the final performance, we never had to touch it once to move it. We packed it and housekeeping swept it away to storage. It was always already at the stage area before set up time as well. Costa Cruise Lines in a class act when it comes to dealing with out of the ordinary situations, and those of you who know us well know that we are anything but an ordinary situation. Parrotheads are the coolest, and these parrotheads are friends, I guess that makes them the coolest of the cool. Supportus Maximus is the slogan of the day. Thank you thank you thank you from the bottom of our hearts for you enthusiasm. It not only fueled our fire, but the passengers and staff will never forget your spirit.
Late night room service and some sleep before a day in Freeport. Missing the cats and our friends. Home soon. nite....

April 15, 2006 ... Freeport, Grand Bahama Island
Today was nice. The weather in Freeport was perfect. The water and sand at the beach is what postcards are made of. Stopped at a cabana bar for a Bahama Mama and saw the most amazing act of the trip. Big John Ferguson plays keys and sings. That part's normal. The abnormal part is his drum machine. He made a contraption that triggers drums and cymbals with his feet. Right foot bass drum, left foot cymbals, snare drum and maracas. It was rusty and salt pitted from being played on the island since 1978, but what a gimmick. Every band needs a good hook, and his is real good.
Tonight was toga night and that meant that every arm that had a CalypsoNuts temporary tattoo on it was on full display. John and Tracy Downing must have been busy because there were hundreds. Ok, maybe not hundreds, but way more than we've ever seen in one place at one time.
As of now, we are halfway between Grand Bahama Island and Fort Lauderdale and the sea is like glass. Orion is shining bright and the ship is cruising sloooooow. The melonchloy sets in a bit, but you can't start an adventure until you finish one. We're in the last hours of this adventure, but other adventures are already in our thoughts.

April 16, 2006 very late night ...Did it really happen? Was I really there?
We were off the ship by 8 this morning. Some strings were pulled and early disembarkation was granted to all 70 in our group. Off the ship quickly, no line for immigration and no line for customs. 15 hours and 997 miles later we're home.
Ok, Costa Magica. 9 cruises between the two of us and this one ranks among the best. The ship was beautiful, the food was way above average, the shows and entertainment were top notch, comfort level was A+, and the ship's staff was both professional and fun. We'd cruise with Costa again for sure.
John and Shirley Murphy from Memorable Cruises and Vacations put the whole shindig together and made it possible for us to play onboard. Thanks tons, you have no idea the doors you may have opened. The Parrothead Club of Tidewater.........Wow......we're truly speechless when we think about the support you given us since 1998. We hold our friends very near to our hearts. You know who you are and we love you!
Next cruise? We're already talking about Royal Caribbean's Voyager Class Ships and a 6 day to Bermuda from Norfolk is for sure.

Key West, Florida
National Parrot Head Convention
November 2005

CalypsoNuts Road Journal for Meeting of the Minds 2005 in Key West

October 30, 2005 3:00pm Norfolk, VA ..start
The New "Nut Van" is loaded and we're off for Key West and MOTM 2005. We hugged Herb, the cats, the dogs, and called Betsy, so the goodbyes are covered. Brother Brooke called and offered up a prayer of safety on the road for us. Thanks Brooke, every little bit helps. We're hoping for good gas mileage, dry roads, fuel availability and funny stuff for this trip south. We're gonna take it slow because no matter how fast we do it, Loveable Lou will do it in two hours less. Trip meter is reset,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,go!

October 31, 2005 3:30am St. Augustine, FL ..stop
We're bunked in for the night at a Holiday Inn Express in St. Augustine. Clean, non-smoking room with hot water, a king bed, and a tv that works (most channels are in English). Perfect! 630 miles were logged in the new "Nut Van" with Lynley doing most of the driving. Saw a bright, emerald green meteorite looking thing in the southern sky near Savanna. It looked like a giant shooting star and it burnt out before hitting the ground. We'll check the news tomorrow for alien sightings in Georgia. XM radio channel 4 (1940's) kept us company while we watched the GPS scroll away the miles. I95 South was good to us today
All is well............Nite...........ZZZZZZzzzzzzzzzz

October 31, 2005 8pm Key West, FL
Just arrived after another 9 hours on the road. We watched fuel availability and filled up just before getting on Florida's Turnpike. Good thing, turnpike plaza pumps were lined up 30-40 cars deep. The keys are pretty messed up from Hurricane Wilma. Some stretches of US1 appear virtually untouched while others are littered with boats and Kitchen appliances.
The biggest report of this leg of the trip is the sighting of what Lynley has always considered the snipe of the Florida Keys. I heard Lynley bellow, "OH, MY LORD! A KEY DEER and I looked up in time to see a dog-sized animal poking through a pile of hurricane rubble. Nice to be back on the rock and we're off for pizza and a stroll.

October 31, 2005 late night Key West
hahahahahahahahahaha! We walked out of our hotel room, stepped onto Olivia Street and, click, the lights (all the lights) (ALL the lights) went out. The Keys lost power from Marathon (80 mp) to Key West and it stayed out all night except for a brief hour sometime around 11pm. We still strolled Duval street, but like everyone else, we strolled by cell phone light. Crazy Monsoon weather started about 10pm and once again flooded the streets. All is well here on Key West.

November 1, 2005 way too early (9am) Key West
I wanna kill the rooster that's crowing outside our window! Cock-a-doodle-BANG!

November 1, 2005 11pm KW
Today was great! Played at Conch Republic Seafood Company from 1-5 and saw folks from Tidewater, Washington Area, Rappahanock, Sarasota Bay, Galveston Bay and other Parrot Head Clubs. We tore down and Sunny Jim White set up for the 5-9pm slot. It's great to see James, we just never get to see him often enough. Met Paul and Cherri Artrip at Alonzo's for dinner and drinks. Patti from Ohio, Amy from Pittsburgh and Mark and Pat from NY joined us later on. Alonzo's is the hot local ticket from 4-6:30pm when most menu items are 1/2 price. Back at the Lighthouse Court now for some relaxation and sleep so we can do it all over again tomorrow. Yay!

November 2, 2005 11pm KW
Nice day in the Keys. 80 degrees and sunny. Played at The Conch Republic Seafood Company again today from 1-5pm and had an even better crowd than yesterday. Eric Stone from the Florida Panhandle stopped by on his way to play a sunset cruise that left from the docks. "Island Gerry" Maddox from Fredericksburg, VA stopped by as well. Funny how you travel 1200 miles and see neighbors.
A crew of 11 met at El Siboney for dinner and homemade sangria. Laughter and general merriment was quickly replaced with yummy sounds. El Siboney is a "must stop" when in Key West.
As of now, I'm back at the room wrtiting and Lynley is tottling up and down Duval surely with a stop in 801 Bourbon Bar for the 11pm drag show.
Heard some rustling in one of the palm trees in the courtyard tonight. Was it a Parrot or a macaw? Nope,,, it was that damn chicken! Bok bok bok! A chicken in a palm tree? That's just not right. There's a sign on a side street down here that now makes a lot of sense, it says, "Help a local get some sleep, take a chicken home".

November 3, 2005 3am KW
Can I kill it? It's just a chicken.

November 3, 2005 11pm KW
Wow!!!! Played at The Reach today from 5-8pm and "OH MY GOD" what a time. The place was P A C K E D with parrotheads . On the beach, on the deck, in the pool, on the balconies, I was expecting to see people pop their heads out from under the sand! We gave away 75 CalypsoNuts Corona Light T-Shirts and a few hats, key chains etc. The decision to move the official events to The Reach made sense with all the hurricane damage to The Casa Marina.
Lynley debuted "Mambo Italiano" tonight and dedicated it to Paulie Artrip and Mike (Schnitzel) Ripa, our Italian Connections.
Tomorrow we'll play for the Club Leaders Brunch at The Conch Republic Seafood Company. We start at, ready for this, 9AM. We'll stay set up and also play there from 1-5pm. Should be yet another great day in the keys, but it means that tonight MUST end early. So,,,,,,,,,,,G'night all! Pray for the chickens to be really tired.

November 4, 2005 Noon KW
It's noon and our first gig is already finished. Sheessh, finished, tore down and moved all the gear about 60 feet to the outside stage for the 1-5pm slot. The weather is perfect, 80 and mostly sunny with a great breeze off the gulf. Slept great last night with earplugs, but Lynley spent the night on the couch trying to get away from the chicken... Bok bok bok, more later..

November 4, 2005 10pm KW
Great day! Management at Conch Republic Seafood Company asked us to stay later and we said, "Of course" and played an additional set.
Got a chance to hang out with Flipper and the guys from The Phins Band, and John Patty and Captain Quint. Haven't had a chance to see Flipper play since 1998 and he and the band sound great! John Patty is Mr. Magic Hands when it comes to steel pan players, he's got a deep seated talent that shows every time he plays. John and Captain Quint are really turning heads in Parrot Head entertainment circles. Both of these bands are "Plays well with others" folks. Yay, entertainment is not supposed to be a contact sport.
We never actually have time to just talk with other players and catch up on old times, so today was really nice. Flipper is staying at The Key Lime and met PHCoT's Scott Pitz, so Scott got a dose of Flipper's sense of humor.
During our 1-5pm slot, we were visited onstage by Gerry Maddox. The crowd always digs Gerry, even when he forgets the words to Volcano. hee hee.
Had dinner tonight with Becky and other Pensacola Parrot Heads. Great people from a great part of the country. Found out that Becky's husband Lynn has a dune buggy, so I'm drooling.
Lynley was awesome today, she is my perfect partner on and off the stage. People love to watch her play steel drum and she eats it all up!
Speaking of Lynley, she's out with the girls and W.N. Bunch painting this town. She needs to unwind and Ohio Patti is just the person to help her with that.
More tomorrow on our day off. Buenos Noches.....

November 5, 2005 3pm KW
Andy and Bonnie Harrell called us last night at 12:30. They were in the courtyard and saw our light on. Wanna split some popcorn by the pool? It was a nice quiet time until the conversation turned to chickens. The was a large black rooster sleeping in the palm tree by the pool and revenge kicked in for me. "If you can wake me up while I"m sleeping, I can wake you up while you are". He wouldn't budge so I was reduced to heaving a chair into the tree. No, I didn't hurt the tree (or the chicken).
Lynley bought some anti-chicken ear plugs earlier in the evening, so we both slept like rocks.
Lunch by the pool today with some music by Kelly McGuire and friends.
Gonna spend some of the day walking around the island looking for old friends that we only get to see once or twice a year. Love this place, but I can see why people burn out down here. More this evening.

November 5, 2005 11pm KW
Nice day off. Went to Mallory Square and finally found a cool hat while Lynley got her annual hair wrap thingy. Although Mallory Square has some hurricane damage, Dominique The Cat Man was there doing his sunset show. Nothing keeps these Key Westers down. What a place! What an Island! What a great community!
We had dinner at Duffy's on Truman Ave tonight with Paul and Cherri Artrip. The food was great, but Cherri asked for no capers or chives- we think the waiter heard extra capers and chives. By the way, Paul won the Margaritaville Tequila drink recipe contest with his "Mayan Princess Mocha Madness".
Went to The 801 Cabaret for the 9pm drag show. Thoses guys/girls work harder than James Brown ever did! All of the performers picked on W.N. Bunch because someone let them know he used to be a hog farmer.
One more day, one more gig and then goodbye to Key West for a few months. Lynley will cry as we leave the island, but I'll smile because I know the feeling I'll have when we return again. Mañana.

Virginia Beach, Virginia
The CalypsoNuts Visit Panyard In Akron, Ohio
July 2005
While visiting Lynley's Dad in Cleveland, we made a side trip to Panyard in Akron for a little tuning and a chance to see their facility and new Solid Hoop Pans. Ron Kearns welcomed us and took us on the tour around the place that he and the staff call home. Panyard's warehouse and manufacturing plant is huge and filled with pan innovation and pan history. Where it all came from is just as important to these people as where it's going. We knew "the pitch" was coming at the end of the tour and we were ready. "We don't need new pans, ours are fine, too much money, maybe next time, yada yada yada", We're NOT going to buy pans! ".....And here's the new solid hoop lead that everyone is raving about,,,,,,,,,,try it, go ahead" Ron says. Now keep in mind, Steve Lawry just came out of the tuning room with our pans and they were sounding much more than very nice, but if they had had hands, they would not have been able to hold a candle to these chromed steel love children. The research into sonic pathways, metal recipes and harmonic relationship was evident in every note. Can these things be that much better? Yes, ours were delivered on June 9, a full month ahead of schedule. Hear our solid hoop pans at every CalypsoNuts show.

Virginia Beach, Virginia
The Oceanfront Diner
Summer Season 2005
Summer is upon us! It's hard to believe that Summer is back so soon. This Summer The CalypsoNuts are once again performing at The Oceanfront Diner on the Virginia Beach Boardwalk at 11th Street. This is show time most of the time. We start out mellow and islandy and within moments the crowd sends us into "show mode". The nights always end big here. It's a pleasure to be back on the patio for year #7!!! I guess time flies when you're having fun. Check our calendar for dates and times.

Fort Walton Beach, Florida
The Summerhouse
March 12, 2005
What do you get when you add great food, great scenery, great service and Bill Treadway? You get another incredible night on Florida's Gulf Coast! When all other areas of our beautiful country are tucked in warm for the winter, The Gulf Coast and the Keys offer warmth for frozen bones. The Summerhouse is a CalypsoNuts best bet in Fort Walton Beach!

Orange Beach, Alabama
6th Annual Stars Fell on Alabama
March 11, 2005
What a great time on Alabama's Gulf Coast! Parrot Heads came from as far away as Pennsylvania for a yearly party that is known worldwide. The devastation from Hurricane Ivan could not put a damper on this event and the purposeful party went on without a hitch. We are honored to have been part of this year's festivities

Key West, Florida
Conch Republic Seafood Company
March 2005
Why can't they all be like this? Perfect weather and a perfect atmosphere made this trip to Key West extra special. We were scheduled to play on Saturday and Sunday, but we were asked to hold over through Tuesday because of an unexpected 5 cruise ships in port. It's cool to see people from the northwest thawing out in the keys. A frozen smile can thaw in 10 minutes and 2 Margaritas.

Virginia's CalypsoNuts bring big smiles to Conch Republic Seafood Company
BY JACK SCHIPP
Cayo Hueso Press
March 6, 2005

KEY WEST- Virginia Beach's CalypsoNuts once again bring their brand of entertainment to the little chunk of paradise that we call Key West. Although "The Nuts" have been here many times, I hadn't had the opportunity to see them until this week. With all responsiblities taken care of and a need for a little R&R, I decided to pay them an unannounced visit.

As I pulled the trusty scooter up to the Conch Republic Seafood Company, I heard the sound of the steel drums filling the air. "The Tide is High never sounded like this", I thought. I hoped I could get a seat relatively close. As if they knew I was coming, there was an empty bar stool right next to the vest pocket patio stage. Within minutes I was sucked in with the rest of the crowd. Island faves, pop, reggae and Buffett tunes had the people dancing and singing along.

The smiles were undeniable.
I spoke with a couple from Tampa Bay who were in town on what they called a quickie vacation and they said "This is some of the best entertainment we've seen in a long time!" This time, I agree. Robbie and Lynley have a unique way of connecting with their audience and it's obvious they have as much fun as the people in the audience. Three cheers to these two musicians that call themselves nuts. The CalypsoNuts are a must see while in Key West this week.

Walton, New York
The Daily Grind
February 2005
WHAT? NEW YORK? IN FEBRUARY? Sure, it's The Daily Grind! And, this time there's a new Parrot Head Club in town! The Coast of The Catskills Parrot Head Club may be small, but they party like some of the largest clubs around. The same can be said for Rich and The Daily Grind. "The Grind" may be small in size, but they're big in flavor and atmosphere. We can't forget to mention Dori's Walton Motel. It may not be the Taj Majal, but when you're Dori's guest, you're family.

Albany, New York
Everyday' s Sports Pub
February 2005
Ok, this one could have been weird, but worked out perfectly. We showed up to play for The Albany/Saratoga Parrot Heads and the Daytona 500 was on every TV and in every speaker throughout the house. This had all the makings of a scene from The Blues Brothers, but after the race, the #24 and #8 jackets came off to reveal hawaiian shirts and the Budweiser was replaced with Corona and Margaritas. Cold, Cold, Cold outside, but warm and toasty inside. We're really getting to like New York!

Virginia Beach, Virginia
The CalypsoNuts at Baker Street
Winter 2005
Here's the hot tip for all you folks from The Tidewater Parrot Head Club. Baker Street has once again extended The Nuts on Wednesdays. The out of town, down time hasn't changed a thing. Thursdays are Corona Nights with Corona Lights for $1.75 while we're playing. Baker Street is also a WIFI hotspot. Bring the laptop and do whatever you do at home, at the club! It's free to hook up to their secure network. Trivia is still on half of the TVs and electronic darts are finally in. See you there? Hope to! Show times are 8pm- 11pm

Key West, Florida
National Parrot Head Convention
November 2004
..........and as we eased over the Stock Island bridge, we knew we were once again back in paradise. Thursday on the beach stage at The Casa Marina was perfect. The sun set in glorious Key West fashion behind us making us wonder why we ever go home. Robert Greenidge stopped by to say hi after we finished. The Coral Reefers are all great folks and very down to earth and Robert is no exception. Nice to see you in the Keys again this year. Friday at The Conch Republic Seafood Co. was just as nice because we got to see Parrot Head Club leaders from all over the world that we only get to see once a year. Thanks to the PHIP board of directors for your energy, determination and imagination, you really know how to throw a party!!!!

Pensacola Beach, Florida
Parrot Heads flock to Hemingway's
November 2004
So, Bill Treadway comes up with this crazy idea to throw a party on Hurricane Ravaged Pensacola Beach at Hemingway's. After determining it too cold to play outside on the deck, Lynley and Jerry (rest.mgr) decide to try it in the dining room by the bar. BINGO!! What a winning hand. Always concerned about the volume, we kept things to a quiet roar and everyone including the diners had fun. Remember Randy and Cappy Mills from Tidewater? They now live in Pensacola and it was a great surprise to see them at the restaurant. Thanks to the Hemingway's staff for making us feel welcome, you have a beautiful place. BTW,,,,, Cappy Mills seems to change her husband's name whenever they move to a new place......People call him Jules now. Well Cappy is Happy 'cause Jules Rules!

Fort Walton Beach, Florida
Happy Hour at Docker's with Wild Bill Treadway!
November 2004
Docker's is actually three separate, but connected ideas. The front door drops you into the sports bar with Sam the bartender serving up the good stuff. If you walk through you end up in a cozy restaurant and further exploration pops you out back onto the deck and Tiki Bar! Sam is from Texas and pours drinks like she has something to prove. They say everything is bigger in Texas and I think that goes for the shot glasses too! We look forward to seeing The Docker's folks again soon. Thanks for the good time!

Virginia Beach, Virginia
Bourbon Street Grille Closes
October 2004
Nick Schaffner has closed the doors at The Bourbon Street Grille on Virginia Beach Blvd. for the last time. What a place this was. Bourbon Street was as comfortable as a sleep number bed. Bearded Dan from Hall Auto, ate lunch at the grille EVERY day for years. Not just every now and then or 3 times a week,,,,EVERY day. Thanks to those members of The Parrot Head Club of Tidewater who showed up on the final night to send Nick, Sara, and the rest of the crew off in style.
Nick promises big things with the same name! Look for Bourbon Street to reappear in the Downtown Norfolk area sometime after the first of the year.
Hey Nick, we're waiting with grumbling bellies for chicken and crab gumbo and red beans and rice and pork chops and cajun potato pancakes and fried cheesecake and cajun stir fry and all the other culinary friends we've grown to know and love.
(miss you guys already)

Norfolk, Virginia
Buffett Tickets at Live Bait in Jillian's
September 2004
Jillian's and Corona Sponsored The CalypsoNuts for a party in Live Bait in Jillian's Entertainment Complex at Norfolk's Waterside on Sept 3, 2004. Perfect weather was an added bonus to a beautiful night of Corona giveaways. The CalypsoNuts showed up with T-shirts, coozies and key chains and Corona gave away 2 tickets to The Jimmy Buffett Show at Fenway Park. Jillian's added air fare for two. The catch? No catch, you just had to be there to win. A lady named Pamela won when her ticket was drawn at midnight and the scream she let out was much louder than any car alarm I've ever heard. Some people came in at 11:55 and signed up, but Pamela had been there all night having cocktails and enjoying the show. If Andy Harrell couldn't win (and he never does), then Pamela would have been my second choice. Have fun at Fenway and tell Jimmy that The Nuts say "Hi".

Virginia Beach, Virginia
Oceanfront Diner
2004 Summer Season Ends
It's hard to believe that Summer '04 is done. It just started and now it's all but a memory. Wow, what a great bunch of memories the season has made though. Every year we have groups of folks from Ireland and elsewhere come to Virginia Beach to work a little and play a lot. This year we met Baz, Paddy, Shane, James, Tamar and a bunch more. They were part of Virginia Beach's best wait staff ever. Home across the sea they go and we'll miss them terribly. The memories however, will last a lifetime.
Thousands came to this year's show and hopefully they all had a good time. We saw people that we see year after year and that makes us feel like we must be doing something right. Three cheers to all the folks who came to The Oceanfront Diner this Summer and Thanks to Betsy and all the staff for a wonderful season. See you in the Spring!!!

Virginia Beach, Virginia
Cavalier Golf and Yacht Club
August 2004
Members of The Cavalier Golf and Yacht Club had dinner on the lawn with The CalypsoNuts helping to set the mood for what turned out to be a really nice evening. The Nuts were a little more laid back than usual, but hey it was dinner time. Thanks to Yanni and Rich and all the members for the kind words and compliments, it's always nice to feel the love.

Parrot Head Club of Richmond's
10th Annual Stars on the Water
August 2004
One of the best Parrot Head Club parties on the East Coast is Stars on the Water and Richmond's Parrot Heads deserve a huge Fins Up for a job well done. No saggy faces at this party, uh uh, no way! People came from the far reaches to get to this party. The CalypsoNuts were onstage poolside on Saturday the 28th from 1-4pm right after Richmond's own B2B Band. The conga line this year was in the pool! A round pool + Parrot Heads conga lining around and around= Whirlpool in the center. Fun Fun Fun and nobody's daddy took their T-Bird away!! Congrats to Cindy and the whole PHCoR crew, you've outdone yourselves again!

Virginia Beach, Virginia
57th Street Ramada
Summer 2004
The CalypsoNuts have been playing on the Ramada patio on Wednesdays all Summer from 4-7pm. Facing the hotel with The Atlantic Ocean as our backdrop made for a real nice time. We played whether folks were having cocktails from the new Tiki Bar or listening and dancing on their balconies. Thanks to Sarah and the staff for an awesome Summer 2004 Season.

Buffalo, New York
Tropicfest 2004
July 2004
The Western New York Parrotheads were partying in the mud this year. Rain and more rain had pretty much been the norm for the two weeks prior to this event, but it didn't slow down the hard cores. I've heard of getting stuck in the snow in North Tonawanda, but stuck in the mud in July? AND TWICE IN TWO DAYS!! Gene Mitchell from Panama City was also on the bill, and you know what that means- we jumped right in with pan mallets in hand. A fun time was had by all and playing with Gene was a beautiful thing. Thanks to the parrotheads for the directions to Duff's and the finest chicken wings in the land!!

Fredericksburg, Virginia
Cheeseburger in Paradise
July 2004
Jimmy Buffett + Outback Restaurants= Key West style food and fun for everybody. Once again the folks at Cheeseburger in Paradise really threw a party. I can't really explain how good the food is, you'll just have to make the trip for yourselves. The atmosphere can only be beat in Old Town Key West and here you get to see our buddy Gerry Maddox on stage during the day. Stop in, say hi, have a burger and a 'rita, and tell Gerry the we said "hey".

Manassas, Virginia
Jimmy Buffett Show
Nissan Pavilion
July 2004
Harry Ellis from Corona really put on the showtime this year. The CalypsoNuts set up and played on what was to be called Corona Hill. Basically it's the grassy knoll in the parking lot right near the porta potties, but that just happens to be the most popular spot in the place before a Buffett Show. People flashing for Corona beads and 250 people in a conga line is a sight to behold. Corona has been good to us for almost 5 years and we're very greatful. Thanks Harry, you're the man.

Corova Beach, NC
The Nuts Get a Soaking
June 2004
Ok, here's what happened and you're not going to believe it. We're scheduled to play a wedding at a beach home on Corova and when we get in the van to leave for the 70 mile trip it doesn't start. We should have known right away that this was not to be our day, but off we dash to the truck rental place. Finally on the road, we get to the end of the road (literally) and have to load all of our gear out of the rental and into SUVs for the 3 mile trek up the beach. Up the beach at a mansion that will never be in our budget, we set up the gear inside because of threatening weather. Rain comes, rain goes and we get the nod to move outside. Number one, we don't move. If we're set up, that's normally where we stay, but this was a bit different circumstance. Ok, ok, outside with the gear. 45 minutes later the bottom dropped out and with no cover anywhere our gear was at the mercy of a very ticked off Mother Nature. Later we poured water out of our speakers, amps and sound rack. Could I have this dance was supposed to be the bride and groom's first dance. Wet gear said no, but a grand piano on the balcony said yes! We played and sang from the loft while the bride and groom did indeed have their first dance below in the foyer with guests looking on! This is a marriage that is bound to last forever

Richmond, Virginia
The Market Cafe'
Partying at The Exxon Station
Summer 2004
That's right, The Market Cafe' is actually inside (and outside) an Exxon Station in Richmond near Innsbrook. Pull in, fill up, park the car, run inside and fill a bucket with single beers and ice from the beer vault. Wander over to the register where you pay for the beer and load up on limes. A quick jaunt outside and voila, you're in party town on the patio with The CalypsoNuts onstage. This is a great idea and a great time for people who work in the Innsbrook area. 5-8pm is perfect for happy hour and folks can bypass all the rush hour traffic. Woo Hoo, another CalypsoNuts hot spot. Thanks Richmond ParrotHeads!

Raleigh, NC
Jimmy Buffett Show
VIP Party at The RBC Center
The Sun was out and so were the "Wild People" at The RBC Center in Raleigh, NC. Jello Shooters, Parrot Bay in water bottles, beer in slings like Pancho Villa (great idea Rock), fruit necklaces filled with some kind of high powered fire water, and that's just the blatant stuff. You name it, they snuck it in. Thanks to Corona Extra and Long Beverage, you really know how to throw a party.

The Meeting of The Minds
Off to See The Keys
Key West November 4-7, 2004
We're proud to announce that The CalypsoNuts have once again been invited to be part of the official entertainment roster for the National Parrot Head Club Convention in Key West. Thursday, Nov.4th, we'll be on the beach stage at The Wyndham Casa Marina Resort from 5pm-8pm (sunset). Early morning on Friday the 5th, we'll be playing for the Founder's Brunch at The Conch Republic Seafood Company. More party info to come.

Timmy and Betsy Update
Remember when Timmy asked Betsy to marry him at last year's sunset party in Key West? Timmy came to the stage and asked for a mic. She said yes and the surprise was huge! Well, here's an update. On April 3rd, Timmy came to the stage and again asked for a mic. This time it was during The Parrot Head Club of Tidewater's Pot Luck Dinner. He and Betsy asked Lynley and I to be Best Man and Matron of Honor when the get married. Of course we said yes. The surprise was when they announced that the wedding date had been set and it was April 3, 2004. (That's NOW!) The minister walked onstage, took the mic, we took our places, Timmy and Betsy gave us the rings and we were off. She said Yes, He said Yes and EVERYONE except the minister, and a few of Betsy and Timmy's relatives were 100% surprised. Ah, another joining of two souls that will surely last forever.

Fredericksburg, VA
Cheeseburger in Paradise
March 2004
Our first show in the new Cheeseburger in Paradise was eye opening. These people have pulled off what is a very neat concept. A lot of times the concept get lost on the bank room floor, but not this time. It really feels like you're walking into old town Key West. The Cheeseburger and a Corona with lime seemed like the default order for the night. I mean you've got to have your priorities in place, right? There was a birthday table that kept asking for Tiny Bubbles. I had no idea why. Tiny Bubbles!? Tiny Bubbles!? Ok, here we go, we don't know this, but we'll fake it for you. All of a sudden we're welcoming 3 ladies onto the stage to hula. The bodies were beautiful, but the hands told the story. I never believed that until the other night. Thanks Debbie, you and the girls were awesome!. .....and here's to the silver sea, but mostly here's a toast to you and me...I've been humming it for days.

Destin, Florida
Fudpucker's
March 2004
The Emerald Coast Parrot Head Club and Fudpucker's hosted The CalypsoNuts for their Annual St. Patty's Day Party. It's always Island Time, but this time it was with Corned Beef and Cabbage instead of Rice and Jerk Chicken. It was very nice to meet a staff member named Kristi; not only is she a pan player, she's also one of Fudpucker's live gator handlers. Live as in gators.....but she's live too..... wait, uh.... you get it, right? This is a must-stop spot for those of you cruising the panhandle.

Pensacola Beach, Florida
Paradise Bar and Grille
March 2004
Fred's a Florida Real Estate guy,
One day a bar on the beach caught his eye.
Now with his old ukulele, he toasts the sun daily,
It's his Paradise, feel free to stop by.

A bar, a grill, some tables, and a beach. What else do you need to have a perfect little place in the sun? You need a business license and The CalypsoNuts. Fred's got both. The Paradise Bar and Grille is a little outside place at The Sand Piper Motel on Pensacola Beach. It's literally a bar, a grill, and a beach. The CalypsoNuts rate this place a ten for you sun junkies.

Pensacola Beach, Florida
Bushwacker's
March 2004
Pensacola Beach again, and this time with The Pensacola Parrot Head Club. One of the newest Parrot head Clubs picked one of the coolest places to have a party. Bushwacker's at Pensacola Beach has one of the prettiest views known to The Nuts. The stage backs up to the sugar sand beach and clear water.(PICTURE) You know a place can't be all bad when the owner sits at the bar with a poodle in her lap and everyone knows the poodle by name. You haven't had a bushwacker 'till you've had one here.

Wild Bill Rides Again!
Just a quick note to thank Bill Treadway for all the Southern Hospitality. Bill put together the whole Panhandle Scandal. He booked the gigs, he put us up, and he introduced us to Carrabba's Italian Grille.

Norfolk, Virginia
CI Travel Show
Sunday, March 7, 2004
70 degrees and sunny was perfect for the CI Travel Show at ODU's Ted Constant Center. We set up in the Foyer and greeted guests as they came into the show. Welcome to Fantasy Island. I'm Mr.Rourke, your host. People weren't walking in, they were dancing. Smiles, smiles, smiles, everyone there was looking forward to their next vacation or remembering their last. Although we were booked as musical wallpaper, the vacation shoppers wouldn't have it that way, they were ready to run away from the real world and slide into R&R mode. Thanks to CI Travel for having us be a part of such a wonderful event.

Manassas, Virginia
2nd Annual MidWinter Meltdown
January 2004
The Pirates of the Potomac and The Parrot Heads of The Old Dominion, along with Brady's Irish Pub, presented The 2nd Annual MidWinter Meltdown in Manassas on Jan.30, 31 and Feb1, 2004. Once again, The CalypsoNuts were part of the entertainment line-up. Friday Night at Brady's was a show to remember. A packed house with cold Corona warm smiles. Saturday morning found us OUTSIDE, playing at the town ice skating rink. The cold stopped a few, but the hardcores were out there skating, falling, skating, falling, and skating. We played from 11am-1pm, but that two hours felt like 12. The strange thing is, we're looking forward to next year. Sunday Morning Songwriters Brunch was very different and very fun. Sunny Jim popped into sing a few before hitting the road home to Florida. Matt Hall, Jim Hoehn, and The CalypsoNuts finished the day with the crowd finally spent after 2 1/2 days. Saint Somewhere and Scott Kirby were also in town for the event. Congratulations to The Pirates, The Parrots and Brady's, what a fun time.

Walton, New York
The Daily Grind
January 2004
A beach party in Upstate New York in January? Mike Ripa from parrotkey.com hosted a beach party (inside) at The Daily Grind in Walton, NY on January 24, 2004. This is a hard one to explain folks, so I'll just have to let the pictures tell the story.
Click here( www.calypsonuts.com/walton.html ) for the pictures from a great time with great people.

Rest and Relaxation on the Deep Blue Sea
After playing in the Florida Keys, we were in need of a break, and this time it came in the form of The Voyager of the Seas. We boarded in Miami and set sail for Labadee, Hispañola; Ocho Rios, Jamaica; Grand Cayman; and Cozumel, Mexico. Although Labadee and Grand Cayman were nice, Ocho Rios and Cozumel really have ways of healing the soul. Cozumel is famous for haggle shopping and "Carlos and Charlie's" where the wait staff are a whole show in themselves. There are waiters with rubber roaches, shooter girls who basically force-feed alcohol to patrons and a big bouncer guy who carries a canister around, cracking it open to expel giant, rubber roach killing, clouds of white CO2. Unlike a lot of gimmicky places, the food at Carlos and Charlie's is incredible, just don't drink the water.
Ocho Rios is a great place to jump a bus to Nine Mile, the town where Bob Marley was born and is buried. We were told that our bus driver was the best in Jamaica just two minutes before he rear ended a police car. The rest of the trip was much better- winding from small town to small town and through Ferngully. After a short hike to the top of the hill, the shoes come off in respect. Our guide started to sing "Is This Love" and after one line the job was taken over by 8 or so kids from the local village. It's pretty humbling to see that the single bed Bob sang about is in a tiny two room house with no running water and that his stove was three rocks and a kettle with a fire underneath. Kinda opens your eyes to the fact that "He who dies with the most toys.........still dies". It makes it easier to smile everyday.
Thanks to Royal Caribbean for an awesome cruise and millions of memories.
"I wanna love ya, and treat ya right. I wanna hold ya, every day and every night"

Key West, Florida
Meeting of the Minds
November 2003
The 2003 National Parrot Head Convention was held in Key West and The CalypsoNuts were on-hand once again as part of the official entertainment line-up. Thursday evening at The Wyndham Casa Marin ia was beautiful. The weather was sketchy and we got a little damp, but what a fun time. Friday morning found us playing at The Conch Republic Seafood Co. at 9:15am for the Founder's Brunch and Saturday was a private party at The Sands on the Southern end of Key West. MOTM is still gig #1 in the CalypsoNuts Handbook of Favorite Places and Events. We love the Keys and we love Parrot Heads!

Key West, Florida
She said yes, Mon!
During The Casa Marina Show on Thursday in Key West, Tim Vincent pulled out the surprise machine. We handed him a mic and he dropped to one knee to ask Betsy Broddus to marry him. Although his hands were shaking like jello that hasn't quite set, Tim's voice was strong with confidence and the crowd went nuts (get it) when Betsy said yes. Fish or cut bait? They're in the boat!!!!!

Key West, Florida
With this Wing?
Thursday, October 30th, 2003 was a big day for W.N. Bunch and his fiancée Karin. Some of us met on Higgs Beach in Key West to witness their marriage. W.N., although never the nervous type, started to repeat the vows with, "With this wing". Downhill from there? No way. Levity was just what was needed to make everyone take a deep breath and relax. Congrats to the newlywed- they met at a CalypsoNuts show in Virginia Beach. Do Ya, KUYA?
The CalypsoNuts played aboard the Spirit Elite and The Annabel Lee for promotions celebrating the release of Kuya Fusion Rum. Both parties were filled with raffle prizes, CalypsoNuts and of course, KUYA. They drank KUYA and Coke, KUYA and Pineapple, KUYA and Cranberry, and if the mixers had run out I have a feeling they would have been drinking KUYA and water from the James and Elizabeth Rivers. The staff and crews aboard both boats were top notch and a pleasure to work with. Nice parties, nice boats, nice crews, nice folks, KUYA rocks, and we had a great time too!

The Northern Neck Entertains
A group of neighbors in the Kilmarnock and White Stone areas have a yearly, multi-night charity fund raiser called, The Northern Neck Entertains. Themed parties are held at different residences and October 1st of this year was Island Night at Paul and Jenny Boyenga's. Although we had only spoken with Jenny and Paul via internet and had never met them face to face, we were welcomed with hugs and smiles as if we'd known each other forever.
Homemade appetizers, conch chowder, and entrees were served with cold Corona beer, Bahama Mamas and homemade kahlua (called homemade hooch by some). We started the night with light island stuff and ended the night with the dance floor packed. The amazing thing was that power had been knocked out by Hurricane Isabel and had only been restored in their area for 36 hours prior to the party. Go Jenny, Go Jenny! What a fun time.

Hurricane Isabel goes nuts
Hurricane Isabel was a large, large mess for the East Coast and The CalypsoNuts home area. Harrison's fishing pier in Norfolk was destroyed. We had just played a party for Thelma Drake (our local delegate), on the pier last month. The awning at the Oceanfront Diner is a thing of the past, but that's an easy fix. The Outer banks, home of Bushwacker's and The Outer Banks Parrot Heads fared much worse. Bushwacker's is still there and did better than most. To try to put this into a picture for you, two fishing piers no longer exist, and there's a new inlet on the OBX. It's going to be a long time before the area is back to 100%.

Dennis and Sara 1, Isabel 0
Although Hurricane Isabel came through like a runaway freight train, she couldn't stop the wedding of Dennis and Sara Thacker. Dennis and Sara's place on the Rappahanock River used to have a large back yard and a twenty foot slope down to the pier. Now they have an itty bitty yard and a twenty foot cliff down to the debris field. There was no power in the church and a generator powered the band as well as the water pump for the house. Candles, running water, and The CalypsoNuts. Everyone is going to be fine.

The CalypsoNuts are again the "Ambassadors of Fun"
July 2003
Deep Summer is not only known for the heat, it's also when Jimmy Buffett comes to town. Corona Extra always throws a VIP party at the event for their vendors, and for the last 4 years The CalypsoNuts have been the featured entertainment. This year was by far the best yet! People were forgetting about life for a little while and the smiles were everywhere. The CalypsoNuts have different faces, and this time it was Island style party band. People danced and ate and drank and danced and ate, etc... Nissan Pavilion in Manassas was pushing 100 degrees, but it didn't stop everyone from having a good time with both old and new-found friends.
Although the list of thanks is long, extra thanks goes to Timmy Vincent and Betsy Broddus for playing King and Queen Roadie for the day.

Nags Head, North Carolina
Rag-Tag Pirateheads on the Outer Banks
Summer 2003
The Outer Banks of North Carolina was always a favorite haunt of Edward Teach, also known as Blackbeard the pirate. OBX is also the home of a group of Parrot Heads who park their beaks at Bushwacker's. Blackbeard loved a good time and so do these folks! You can always find some of them at the front table enjoying life and welcoming vacationing Parrotheads. Becoming a strange sort of "Tropical Command Center", vacation realtors are sending their hawaiian shirted clients to Bushwacker's to see the show. We've met people from all over the country and look forward to meeting many more. Blackbeard would enjoy a stop at Bushwacker's, but sadly he's no longer with us. Ben Cherry, who knows more about Blackbeard than most people, says "It is rumored that after decapitation, Blackbeard's headless body swam around his ship six times." Ben says that it's only a myth- he only swam around twice.

The Shiniest Chrome
June 2003
During a recent trip South, we had a chance to meet Alan Coyle at his office in Pensacola, Florida. Alan is one of the world's best steel drum builders and we thought it would be a good idea to have him give our pans a once over. While Alan was tuning our lead drum, Bill Treadway (our buddy on the Emerald Coast) started asking Alan questions about a very pretty drum in the corner. Alan told him about the drum and quickly added that it wasn't for sale. Bill was determined to acquire that drum for us. To make a long story short, we now have a lead and a pair of double seconds from Coyle Drums. All of the pans are half bore and sing like chrome plated angels. Bill, you're the coolest and another check is in the mail. Thanks Alan, for such nice instruments.

Shrimp as big as your head?
Almost! Nick at Bourbon Street Grille is now serving Cajun Steamed Shrimp and CalypsoNuts on Wednesdays. If you know Nick's cooking, you'll know that this is an incredible addition to the list of tasty morsels to come out of his kitchen. $13.99 gets you a pound of these salt water jewels. The CalypsoNuts have moved to Wednesdays so we can be part of the "Seriously Sensational Steamed Shrimp Soirée". Like he says, "Come hungry and I'll fix that". See you there!

Virginia Beach, Virginia
Bambooze is Nut News
June 2003
There's a new place on the Virginia Beach strip. Bambooze is on Atlantic Avenue at 8th Street, across from The Barclay Towers. The CalypsoNuts (with Jimbo), are there on most Sundays from 2-5pm. Early Sunday is a great time to visit the oceanfront area; a lot of vacationers are leaving the resort area and new ones don't arrive until Monday. These folks put three steamed shrimp on your burger and then put it under the broiler to melt the cheese that tops the whole thing. Awesome, awesome, awesome, come visit and try it! Sundays are Corona days- look for prizes and giveaways.

Washington, D.C.
National Barbecue Battle
June 2003
June 21, 2003 found us in our nation's Capital for Safeway's National Barbecue Battle. Pennsylvania Ave. from 7th to 13th streets was closed to traffic, but wide open to Barbecue teams from across the country. Battle-goers sampled tons of BBQ, and with three stages, the entertainment options were many. There was a steel drum band from Washington, DC that played in the street before we started. The players were all kids from 10 to 18 and they were fabulous! It's always a treat to see kids playing pan. If they're playing, they aren't fighting and that's a good thing in a world prone to so much bad. Three cheers to Alan and Suzanne Tubis- this event was flawlessly planned.

Philadelphia in the Rain
June 2003
The Tri-State Parrotheads hosted The CalypsoNuts and Captain Quint at Cavanaugh's River Deck in Philadelphia for Tropic Fest. Rain didn't slow us or the Parrotheads down. Although the weather sapped attendance, everyone had a good time and The Alzheimer's Association benefited from the purposeful party. Not only did we get to see our old Parrot Head friend Drifty the Gypsy, but we had a little time before hitting the road to grab a couple real cheesesteaks from Gino's. Steak, onions, and cheese whiz on a sub roll? OH YEA !!!!

Columbia, the City not the Country
April 2003
April sounds like as good a time as any to play in Columbia, S.C. for what The Palmetto Parrot Head Club calls Friday Fin Fest. Fun was in big supply with a mini-mart downstairs, and The CalypsoNuts up. We met Columbia's own "Laid Back Larry", and were liberally maraca'd by a guy who goes by the name of Stan the Man. Stan (who plays his maracas with anybody on a stage), had made mention in the news paper that he was a huge Jimmy Buffett fan and how he'd love to shake his stuff for Jimmy. Well, Buffett found out and the next thing you know, Stan and his trademark stovepipe pirate hat were on the big stage with the King of Coconuts himself! The CalypsoNuts have now been added to his long, long list and we're proud to be part of his jingling percussion odyssey.

Destin, Florida
U.S.O. Show for The American Cancer Society
March 2003
With 10 days wide open before our high season, we decided to visit Wild Bill and Saint Jody in Pensacola. 6 days of pure relaxation and 4 of exhilaration No sooner did we get to Pensacola, both of our hosts have to leave town for 3 days on business. Gypsies in the palace? Geriatrics in the palace was more like it. Nothing is what we did, and we did it well.
We played at Fat Tuesday in Destin on Thursday and Saturday. Thursday was for the Chamber of Commerce and Saturday was a show to benefit the U.S.O.. Friday found us with "The Emerald Coast Parrot Head Club" (wow, say that 3 times fast), at Bamboo Willie's and we ended up on a local television show called Beach TV. Cool trip so far, but what about Sunday? "The Emerald Coast Parrot Head Club" (sheeesh, there it is again), hosted the CalypsoNuts at Fudpucker's in Destin for Gumbo Sunday, an all day event to benefit The American Cancer Society. $7.00 got you in the door and got you a buffet line wristband. Red beans and rice were served by the gallon and so was the gumbo. Great food, Great people, Great place, Great fun. Yes, we paid our dues and now we're members of one of the largest Parrot Head Clubs in the country. We can't wait to spend more time on the Emerald Coast.

And The Winner Is........
April 2003
The CalypsoNuts have been named Best Island/Reggae band in Hampton Roads by 9 Volt Magazine readers for the second year in a row. Last year we went to the ceremony to receive our plaque, but this year we didn't even know that we were nominated. Being chosen best anything is an honor! We always try to be as professional as we can be and try to make sure that each and every one of our shows have a positive effect on the people in the audience. Thanks to 9 Volt magazine and the readers for selecting us to receive this award for year number two!

Nothing Short at Midgett Realty
March 2003
Midgett Realty on Cape Hatteras brought the nuts in for a party at The Cape Hatteras Angler's Club. Although the CalypsoNuts are not known as a "Dance" band, these people danced from the time we started until the time we quit. The Southern end of the Outer Banks of North Carolina is one of the prettiest areas in the world. From Rodanthe and South to Ocracoke is like stepping back in time. No wonder Black Beard loved it there.

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
The CalypsoNuts Get a Touch of Cabin Fever
February 2003
The Steel City Fins and 200+ other Parrotheads converged on Pittsburgh for a party they aptly call "Cabin Fever". Tired of cold and snow, these folks were ready for the sunshine and warmth that can only be brought on by a Parrothead Phlocking! Saturday featured Sunny Jim White and The CalypsoNuts at The Rhythm House just stumbling distance form the hotel where most people stayed. Although Sunny Jim and The Nuts had different show times, we spent a lot of time on the stage together. What a fun time, I'm already looking forward to next time.
Lynley came in from breakfast saying, "Watch what you say to Canadians, they may just give you their clothing". Lynley says, "Hey Doug, thanks for the sweatshirt, eh?".
Many thanks to the Pittsburgh Parrothead Club for making us feel like family.
visit Sunny Jim at www.sunnyjim.com

Buffalo Wild Wings Now Has Nuts on the Menu
The CalypsoNuts take wing to Richmond, VA and land at Buffalo Wild Wings on Broad Street for 6 Wednesday performances. Sponsored in part by Corona Light, Wednesdays will be Island Party Time! Look for specials and promotions! Many have asked, "When are you coming to Richmond"? Well........NOW! "Ole, Ole, it's HOT HOT HOT in Richmond".

Manassas, Virginia
2003 Midwinter Meltdown
February 2003
The Pirates of The Potomac, The Parrot Heads of The Old Dominion and Brady's hosted The Inaugural Midwinter Meltdown in Manassas, VA. The CalypsoNuts played on Friday between Matt Hall and Jim Morris and The Big Bamboo Band. Saturday morning found us set up and playing at the town's outdoor ice skating rink in what seemed to be sub-zero temperature. With Jim Morris and Sunny Jim White having to shuffle back to Florida, The Nuts were asked to fill in for the Songwriters Brunch on Sunday. After such a wild weekend, this was the perfect opportunity to break away from the normal CalypsoNuts routine and fall back to the more acoustic side of things. When it was over, it still wasn't over! Brady's weekly Sunday afternoon entertainment cranked up. Mike and Terry, "The Happy Hour Boys" took over and entertained the entertainment. Do you need to smile, laugh and forget about it all for a while? GO SEE THESE GUYS!

CajunCalypsoNuts at Bourbon Street
Hey everyone, Nick and Sara at The Bourbon Street Grille have given the "Nod to The Nuts" for Thursdays through the Winter. Nick does know Cajun food, but he does not know portion control, so come early and come hungry. He hits the kitchen at 6 and we hit the stage at 8. See you there.

Virginia Beach, Virginia
Surprise at SOMI
February 2003
Once a year, The Society of Maritime Industries throws a 3 day party at The Ramada 57th St. in Virginia Beach. The CalypsoNuts have played the Sunday red-eye Brunch for the past 3 years. This year we surprised them by bringing along an old friend. Joe Maniscalco joined us at the Ramada and we shared the stage for the first time in 5 years. Joe played the first set, we played the second and then after a short break, the three of us took the stage and threw a few memories around the room. A great time was had by all.
Joe,
May your sails always be full and your skies sunny and clear.
Robbie

Lake Wright Lounge says Goodnight
December 2002
The Lake Wright Lounge at The Quality Inn has closed their doors for good. With the new hotel facilities in place and operating, the old restaurant and lounge building has been shut down to make room for other opportunities for the Lake Wright family. Thanks for 4 wonderful years and the chance to prove that mid-week entertainment works if you have the right band. All hail to Chuck McKinney and the entire staff for helping to make The Lake Wright Lounge the most comfortable place in town.

South, North, Way South, North, Northwest, East and a little North.
November 2002
It seems like it's been travel time for the CalypsoNuts. After Norfolk to Key West, we drove to Miami and boarded the Norwegian Sea to Belize City and Cozumel for a little rest and relaxation. Docking back at Miami was a sad day because we had to get off the ship. Although kicking and screaming did enter our minds, we decided to buck up and go quietly.
Back to the van and this time we pointed ourselves toward Pensacola Beach and Casa de Treadway. Pensacola has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world and with Bill and Jodi now living there, Pensacola now has two of the world's most fun-loving people. Looking Northeast toward home, we covered Florida, Alabama, Georgia, South Carolina, All of North Carolina before we finally came to rest back at the Nut Hut in Norfolk, Virginia. It's nice to travel, but it sure is nice to get back home too.

Key West, Florida
Meeting of the Minds
2002
Once again The CalypsoNuts were part of the official entertainment lineup for the Meeting of the Minds in Key West, Florida. One of our favorite slots is 5-8pm at The Wyndham Casa Marina on the beach stage. With the sun setting behind the band and the palm trees swaying in the breeze, all the conditions were perfect for a CalypsoNuts show. The stilt dancers were back again this year and the party was on!
Friday morning found us playing for the Founders' Brunch at the Conch Republic Seafood Company. 300 people at 9 am? What, are these people crazy? Yes they are, and all to often their passion is underestimated.
What would MOTM be without the annual Merlin Inn pool party on Friday? The Parrot Head Club of Tidewater hosted it again and this year was the best yet. Harry Ellis from Gambrinus showed up with his swimming trunks and 7 cases of Corona and Corona Light. What a party, what a place, this is what Parrot Heads do the best. Thanks to Dorothy's Deli for the marvelous catering and thanks to the Merlin Inn for accepting our madness with open arms.
Hats off to the Convention Committee for yet another flawless event.

Waaas Blind, But Now, She sees!
If you know Lynley, then you know how blind she is. The big E on the chart was just a black blob. Enter, Dr.G. Peyton Neatrour, M.D.. Lynley walked into Dr. Neatrour's office wearing her glasses so she could at least see the door, and twenty minutes later she walked out with her glasses IN HER HAND! The Lasik surgery Dr. Neatrour performed took less than 20 minutes and after 3 hours she already has better vision than me. Thanks Doc, you've just made life a little easier for Lynley! WOW !

Nags Head, North Carolina
The Steel City Fins Fly South
Summer 2002
While at Bushwacker's on October 7th, a rowdy group of ten came rolling in the door obviously looking to have some fun. After finishing the set, I wandered over to introduce myself only to find out that they're all from the Steel City Fins Parrot Head Club in Pennsylvania. Their vacation realtor saw the Parrot Head license plate and sent them to the Monday night phlocking at Bushwacker's. It was game on when they got together with some of the local Parrot Heads. Jimmy Buffett would be proud. Fun time, New friends, I love my job.

Hello B2B!
The CalypsoNuts and The B2B Band from Richmond, split the bill at The Virginia State Fair on October 6th. We alternated shows all day and ended up on stage together for the big finale'. We never get a chance to hear other musicians, much less share the stage with them, but I guess the stars were all aligned that day. I look forward to doing that again! Thanks to Corona Light, Sponsors of both The CalypsoNuts and B2B.

Carmen, Oh Carmen, the Queen of the Sea
She mysteriously appeared out of the fog, and with her unseen abilities sensed that relaxation was the necessary spell to cast. Wielding her most magic of wands, Carmen conjured reservation and confirmation at The Sanderling Inn in Duck, NC. Sea birds whistled, peeped and sang over the perfectly sweet din of the Atlantic. Sleep was almost immediate after discovering the wine and the bed in the loft. Deep, pillowy slumber was followed by morning breeze and a massage for Lynley in the Gazebo. It's pretty amazing the places you meet angels. Thanks Carmen, we'll never forget your little piece of paradise.

Once again dubbed, "The Busiest Act in Town"..
Lynley does the booking and once again this year she believes that we are the energizer bunnies of the entertainment business. It's now July 16 and we are in the middle of a 107 day run with 2 days booked as OFF, 11 days booked double and 2 days booked TRIPLE! I love what we do and I love that we make people smile etc., but would someone please steal Lynley's pen, she's gonna kill us!

The Great Picture Caper
It seems that a "sticky fingered fan" keeps taking CalypsoNuts promo pictures out of the windows at Bushwacker's. Although we're honored by your support and love, the staff has to keep putting them back up. Bushwacker's has a virtual heap of our 8x10 for just such emergencies and they'd gladly give one to you. Of course we'll autograph it!

ParrotHead Club of Tidewater Raises a Bajillion!
Those crazy ParrotHeads from the Hampton Roads area raised what appears to be a bajillion dollars for the American Cancer Society at The Relay for Life. Congrats on a job over-done, maybe a cure is around the next bend.

A Time to Celebrate
Kurt Von Gehr and Kim Voight recently tied the knot. It took Kurt years of courting, almost to the extent of stalking, but Kim finally said yes and now they're one. The party after the fact was held at Harrell Key and it lasted into the night. BBQ, Margaritas, Brats on the grill, Fresh Fruit, Friends and Family all in one place to celebrate! What was that whole ice cube thing though?

Key West, Florida
2002
The CalypsoNuts are slated to perform at The Meeting of The Minds in Key West in November 2002. Look for us on the beach stage at The Casa Marina on Thursday Oct 31, from 5-8pm and at The Founder's Brunch on Friday at 11am. The now legendary Friday afternoon party at The Merlinn Inn is ON and The CalypsoNuts will once again be poolside. Stay tuned for details.

Gotta Squawk About It
Although The CalypsoNuts play everything form Calypso to Country, Blues to Beach Music, and Motown to Reggae, we have a real love for the whole "Margaritaville" lifestyle and Buffett type Music. Along with it comes the Clubs and the crazy yet charitable things they do. Although our schedule keeps us from many events, we still keep up with what everyone is doing and join in the madness whenever we can.

Bushwacker's Strays to the Island Ways!
The people on The Outer Banks are going "Nutty"! They descended on Bushwacker's with a lust for life not seen since Blackbeard's headless body was spotted swimming around his battered ship. These people are dedicated fun lovers and they always show up when play in OBX! Thanks for the continued support everybody!

Nuts at Buffett at Nissan in Manassas year 3
Harry Ellis "the corona god" gave us the nod to play the Corona VIP tent again this year at the Buffett show in Manassas. The VIP tent is the perfect prelude to any Buffett show. This is the 3rd year in a row that The CalypsoNuts have been the VIP entertainment and the energy of the crowd blows me away every time. Thanks Rocky! Thanks Harry! Thanks to Timmy, Cheri, Paul, Bob, and Peggy for being CalypsoNuts Security for the day. And as always, Thanks to Jimmy Buffett for an incredible show.

Filomena Ristorante in Georgetown
We spent an incredible evening at Paul Artip's Aunt's Restaurant in Georgetown, just outside Washington, DC. When the critics say 4 star, they mean 4 star. Dinner lasted 4 hours and then Chef Enzo brought out the Lemoncello! Waddaya mean Italian isn't on the diet? Fugeddaboutit, Mozzarella has no calories at all and pasta has negative calories. You can actually LOSE weight while eating at Filomena's! Well,,,,A man can dream, can't he? Grazi Aunt Joanna, we felt like royalty.

The CalypsoNuts have a home on the Outer Banks of N.C.
Gonna be in Nags Head? Gonna go out to eat? Gonna want a little entertainment? If that's the case, count to 16. Bushwacker's is at the 16 mile post in Nags Head. It's between the beach road and the bypass road, so you can't miss it.
Kirsten and Wayne Everhart have transformed The Island's Eye Restaurant into BUSHWACKER'S and people are flocking to see what's new. Casual atmosphere and great food make this the place to be when in Nags Head.

2002 Corona Sponsorship News
Once again The CalypsoNuts are brought to you in part by Corona Extra and Corona Light. Watch for special events and parties! Thanks to Chuck, Tim, and Harry The Corona God.

Sales of "Six More Weeks" are going NUTS!
The most asked question lately has been "When is the CD gonna be done?!". Ladies and Gentlemen, Boys and Girls, Children of all ages, it is finally here! The CalypsoNuts new CD, "Six More Weeks", is now available and wanting to come home with you. Fully enhanced, "Six More Weeks" is more than just a CD, it's also Video Fun from The VA Beach Boardwalk! Get your copies today! CD's are available at all CalypsoNuts Shows and at CD Baby.com. With Christmas sales booming, supplies are limited.

Key West, Florida
The Great Key West Caper of 2001 !
November 2001
As part of the entertainment line-up for the 10th Annual National Parrot Head Convention, The CalypsoNuts put the cruise control on "Due South". With 4 gigs out of the way, we settled down to what was supposed to be 4 days of much needed R&R. As with all well planned vacations, along came the spoiler: Hurricane Michelle popped up and quickly became a category 4 storm, prompting mandatory evacuation of the Keys. Capt. Andy, Bonnie the First Babe and Parrot Herb joined us in the Van for a somber ride north from Paradise. The cell phone rang and St. Bill Treadway (the patron saint of all that is PARTY) came through with 2 nights in a 2 bedroom condo at The Old Key West Resort on Disney. We didn't kill any tourists in St. Augustine, but we sure did mess with that mouse in Orlando!! Thanks Bill, canonization is imminent.

CalypsoNuts at Manassas Buffett Show
September 2001
The CalypsoNuts rocked the Corona Extra VIP tent at the Jimmy Buffett Concert in Manassas, VA. Giveaways, giveaways, giveaways, that was the word of the day. I think all 375 people left with a new t-shirt or coozie, it was that crazy! Once again, Harry The Corona God incited one of the best parties around!

The CalypsoNuts are Back on the Boardwalk
New Owners! New Attitude! New Name! Same Great Atmosphere!
The Oceanfront Diner on 11th Street and Atlantic on the Va Beach Boardwalk, will host The CalypsoNuts for the Spring and Summer 2001 Season. Look for lots of new stuff and plenty of the old favorites! I spoke with Lola the other day and she promised to make a few appearances this year. Tina, Big John and D say it's gonna be a great summer! Make sure to watch our schedule for dates and times.

The Great Guinness Toast
February 2001
On Feb 23rd, 2001, thousands of people worldwide raised their glasses at the same time for the 9th Annual Great Guinness Toast. Once again The CalypsoNuts were on hand at The White Horse Pub, Tidewater's unofficial Toast Headquarters. The pub was packed to standing room only this year. At 11 o'clock, pints of Guinness and bottles of Corona were raised in unison as Larry Mercieca took the stage and proposed the toast. Larry, Fred, and all the staff make The White Horse Pub as comfortable as your favorite recliner.

Key West, Florida
MOTM 2k
November 2000
Wow, what a time! The 9th Annual Parrot Head Convention in Key West was a huge success. The CalypsoNuts played on the beach at The Casa Marina Hotel during the sunset hours on Thursday and on Friday for The Parrot Heads of The Merlinn Party. Corona Light, Captain Morgan's Spiced Rum, and Parrot Bay sponsored The Nuts to Key West and gave us 1,200 giveaway items to lay on the crowd. Between the beach gig and Merlinn Inn pool party, we had people diving for key chains, T-shirts, ball caps, Corona lime heads and piles of other stuff. All 1,200 items went to deserving and drinking Parrot Heads. Wait 'till next year!!!

Alexandria, Virginia
Mango Mike's
Fall 2000
The Washington Area Parrot Head Club and Bill Treadway's Throng of Crazies, were seen partying at Mango Mike's in Alexandria, VA with The CalypsoNuts. Exotic eats and Caribbean beats were on hand for Mango Mike's first annual end of summer party. Gumbo? Did you say Gumbo? You outta have a cup before they bring on the jerk pork chops!

Summer 2000 closes! WOW!
Wow, Summer 2000 must have had wings. The season flew by us at blinding speed. Once again, thousands of people came to visit us at The 11th Street Oceanfront Cafe. People are already asking about next year. Will you be back again? What's next? Where will we find you? We'll let you know as soon as we finalize anything. Thanks again to Mike, Pris and all the staff at 11th Street, it was a great summer.

Virginia Beach, Virginia
Corona Extra VIP Tent
Summer 2000
The CalypsoNuts were the sponsored entertainment in The Corona Extra VIP tent prior to The Jimmy Buffett shows at The Nissan Pavilion in Manassas on June 17 and The GTE Amphitheater in VA Beach on June 20. Both events were a huge success and we look forward to doing many more. Thanks to "Harry The Corona God" for making this happen, The CalypsoNuts were IN THE HOOOOOOOUSE!!!!!!

Snowshoe, West Virginia
The CalypsoNuts Take The Islands to The Sky
Spring 2000
The CalypsoNuts played at Snowshoe Mountain Resort on March 19th for an employee appreciation party at Yodeler's Pub.
It was COLD outside, but it was HOT inside. Thanks to Bill Treadway for the hook-up, we really look forward to doing it again next season. Shuuuuuush!!

Virginia Beach for the 2000 Summer Season
With Summer '99 at the beach being such a huge success, Mike and Pris have asked The Nuts to call The 11th Street Oceanfront Cafe home for the 2000 Summer Season. Ocean breezes, salt air, and frozen drinks as big as your head! Yea, this is our idea of fun. Show dates are; Sundays, Mondays, Thursdays and Fridays, from Memorial Day to Labor Day.

Parrot Heads of The Year '99
Andy and Bonnie Harrell, Founders of The Parrot Head Club of Tidewater, named The CalypsoNuts "The Parrot Heads of The Year" for 1999. We were caught completely off-guard. We are proud members and will continue to be for a very long time. Many thanks to PHCoT, we are truly humbled by your continued and wonderful support.

We must be doing something Wright
As of Jan.4th, 2000, The CalypsoNuts have been at The Quality Inn Lake Wright every Tuesday and Wednesday for two years. Thanks to Chuck McKinney for his ongoing commitment to entertainment in Hampton Roads. The CalypsoNuts can be found there every Tuesday and Wednesday evening from 8-10pm. The Parrot Head Club of Tidewater also meets there the first Tuesday of each month at 7:30pm.

New Years Eve in Hatteras Village
December 31, 1999
We played in Hatteras Village at Sue Haycox's "Calypso" home on December 31st. It was the perfect place to ring in the new millennium. Catered dinner for 12, Fireworks off the beach at midnight, and The CalypsoNuts dancin' them into the floor. Lynley even Lola'd the Mayor of Hatteras.The next morning at brunch, Sue said, "I had so much fun and didn't want it to end, so I stayed up all night". I think she slept well later in the afternoon. The CalypsoNuts' glasses are held high, toasting Sue and her guests. WHAT A PARTY!

The CalypsoNuts Rock Hooter's, Key West
MOTM '99
After playing a party for The Isle of Iowa Parrot Head Club at Hooter's Key West, Restaurant Manager Steve Shortino gave us the nod to play outside by the banyan tree Thursday and Friday nights. The banyan tree deck is on the corner of Duvall and Caroline streets. People came from everywhere, they even left their barstools at the place across the street to come over to Hooter's for The CalypsoNuts Show. It was a magical time. Andy Harrell fell down at least once, and Herb Holzheter was play fighting with a guy in a wheelchair. Only in Key West......Only in Key West........

The Nuts Tie The Knot
Oct 20, 1999
On October 20th, We were married in Key West, Florida. Poolside at The Merlinn Inn with 70 good friends was the perfect setting for the perfect union between the perfect couple. Thanks to everyone for who helped make the day effortless for the two of us, we are truly blessed to have the friends we do.

Summer Home
September 1999
As summer 1999 winds down, we can look back and see what a great success it was. We have been called the "Busiest Band in Hampton Roads" thanks to all of you. Thousands of people came to our show at The 11th Street Oceanfront Cafe and we did our best to make each and every one of them smile at least once. Lola has become quite the household name on The Va Beach Strip and Mike Sr. has already booked us for the 2000 Summer season. Thanks to everyone who visited us on the patio, we hope you've had as much fun as we did.

Miss her so badly !
On August 4th, The Parrot Head Club of Tidewater lost our eldest member, Flo Willis. She left here too soon. Although Flo was 83, we only knew her for a little over a year. She was quite the lady and quite the card all in the same moment. She will be missed for a very long time.

Seagull Poop is Lucky!
May 1999
During The CalypsoNuts first engagement at The 11th Street Oceanfront Cafe, a seagull decided to do a ceremonial fly by in honor of the beginning of spring. Mike Sr.,The Owner, said in a thick Italian accent that getting pooped on by a seagull is good luck. It's a good thing Elephants don't fly.

Folks, if you've read this far down this page, you have come to what was basically the beginning of The CalypsoNuts. The road has been long, but absolutely a blast. The good news is that the road continues with no sign of the end yet!

Lynley and I are still together and still in love and that's a beautiful thing. I don't know how I would ever manage life without her by my side and I don't know how she's put up with me for all these years.

I am the luckiest man on the planet because of her love and her support. She is my wife, my whole life and still my best friend. The best wish that I can wish for you, is that you find someone who loves you unconditionally like she loves me. The power of love is curious, but also relentless. I will love her forever.