I’m nearing the end of my Summer Tour for 2025. While my Stormin’ Bob persona originated in 2000 when I was doing television weather (KHBS-KHOG 40/29 in Fort Smith, AR), my summer touring has been a more recent development — I’ve toured most summers (except when COVID shut things down) each year since 2018.
I was younger then as was my family. We used to travel as a family to almost all of the shows. My boys would help with the presentation while my wife would sell merch after the show.
Many things have changed since then. My wife has a different job and a different work schedule, and my boys are involved in all kinds of summer activities. I’m usually lucky to get one child to accompany for shows these days.
For my June shows, middle son Nate was able to come along to play drums. When July rolled around, so did band camp so he came off the road.
During June, youngest son Henry was busy with football workouts and a theater camp, but he’s been able to travel with me for my July shows.
Eldest son, Dan, had to be chauffeur for his brothers’ activities. He did come along for a couple of local shows with me (I forgot to take pictures). While we’ve not been able to all travel together, it has been nice to spend a little one-on-one time with the boys.
Even with the changes, I continue to cherish every minute. I also continue to cherish the opportunity to play music as a part-time job. This wouldn’t be possible without the library staff who book me and the library patrons who show up for my performances.
Who pays for these performances? In some cases, the Mississippi Arts Commission funds grants that cover a portion of my fee so I am very grateful to MS taxpayers. Other libraries pay through the library’s general budget — again, thanks go to the taxpayers. Other libraries depend upon “Friends of the Library” funds. If you’ve ever donated directly to a library, participated in a library fundraiser, bought a book during a book sale — THANK YOU! Without you, I wouldn’t be able to do what I do — I certainly don’t take your generosity for granted.