Monkeying around at the fish fry

In Abilene, Texas, you can sell fish, but don’t you dare try to sell simians.

The Royal Cacophonic Orchestra perform at the Key City, Abilene Kiwanis club's fish fry.

Every year, the Key City, Abilene Kiwanis club’s fish fry attracts 3,000 customers and nets a profit of about US$11,000. Musicians and other stage acts entertain (and draw) the large crowds.

One such showman, local musician Tony Barker, invited a chorus of young audience volunteers, dubbed the “Royal Cacophonic Orchestra,” for a sing-along rendition of She Wants to Sell My Monkey. A video of their performance, posted on YouTube.com, makes it comically clear these kids don’t want chumps messing with their chimp.

Thirty-four years in operation, the fish fry serves up about 800 pounds of Alaska pollock and (new in 2006) 400 pounds of chicken. According to past club president Gene Linder, the event raises monies to support 25 local organizations, such as Big Brothers/Big Sisters, Boys and Girls Club, scouts, Children’s Miracle Network, 4-H, and agricultural scholarships.