Monday, September 29, 2008

'ruin your decor' show opens October 3!

THIRDSTONE NEWS AND NOTES:
FALL GALLERY HOURS: open 5 days a week, Wednesday thru Sunday, 11 til 5 or 6 and usually later on the weekends...and also by appointment anytime - call 269-561-8149.
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BLOID-O-RAMA AND PAINT SPATTERS - MY "RUIN YOUR DECOR" SOLO SHOW OPENS NEXT FRIDAY OCTOBER 3.
YUP..IT'S FINALLY ALMOST HERE... Join us next Friday evening from 7 til 10 PM fpr the opening party of my "RUIN YOUR DECOR" solo show extravagananzabonanza. There'll be far too many crazyass Assembloids (my largest and weirdest batch in over a decade...) And, there's also a whole bunchalotta goofy-lookin' flattish sorta thangs that I'm daring to refer to as "paintings" too. This place will literally be dripping in travesty, enigmae and truculence and, at unprecedented levels of ludicrosity.Gulp - it's almost scary!(And, intensely stoopidsilly too!)

Along with those will be the first entries in my ongoing new series of "Racing Ducks". Rather than attempt to explain I think it best you just come and see for yourselves...

As a special added bonus will be several joint-effort creations each made by myself and another artist.... Let's call 'em "Collabotroids", shall we?? Some of the artists brave enough to undertake this bizarre journey with me include Penny Thompson, Al Weener, Jerry Catania, Sarah Hurley, Ellen Sprouls and a couple others perhaps. All indications are that these may turn out to be quite interesting...

Also featured along with my weird 'offspring' will be a heap of delicious and cool paintings from ThirdStone Artist Sarah Hurley, More new large metal sculptures from Billy Mayer and, an assortment of works from the ThirdStone "Private Stock" collection along with a few other treats....

And, if all of that weren't enough, in conjunction with alla the above: you are invited to enter the:
WIN-AN-ASSEMBLOID/RUIN-YOUR-DECOR CONTEST( IF YOU DARE...)
Okay, so this ridicimus idea began as a colouring contest for big kids. Never satisfied with mere simplicity, I somehow managed to spin this into an even more expansive and strange debacle.

Rather than explain at length here, just go to:http://www.thirdstoneartgallery.com and follow the link to the contest download page. Download your entry (or entries) and have at it. The (non) Rules will give you a huge variety of ways to approach the challenge. Entries must be received in person or via mail by Thursday, October 16. We'll host a gala "CLOSING RECEPTION" PARTY during which the winners will be announced and the decor-trashing-trainwreck Assembloid thangs will be awarded.
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THIRDSTONE PENDING EVOLUTIONS N'TRANSITION N'OTHER CRAZY SHAPE-SHIFTING ADVENTURES
Yup! ThirdStone will be vacating our current home in November (or, whenever I locate a new tenant for this lovely space) and will re-appear in yet another freshly-altered form in December for our annual Holiday Show. It's time again to "rewind" the biz-plan back to what was intended to occur when I sold the original ThirdStone building and relocated T'Stone's world HQ to Funnville 3 longshort years ago.

SO WHAT'S NEXT, YOU ASK?
ThirdStone will host about 6 West Michigan shows per year in various area locations. In between, I'll be co-curating shows of ThirdStone artists' works that will be hosted by other galleries in cities across the country.So, we'll still be around showing you great art; we're just doing a bit of 'shape-shifting' to help us expand our reach further into the Kosmos.

AND THUSLY ACCORDIONLY.....
THIRDSTONE GALLERY SPACE IS AVAILABLE FOR RENT OR LEASE
Yeah, this cool space is now becoming available for the 'right' business to move into. There's lots of space in an only 5 year old, super-modern building. Includes private parking, energy-efficient utilities all in a great location here in thriving downtown Fenville And, at a very reasonable rental rate too. The building's owner will likely give preferential consideration to a business that can be a "draw" for downtown Fennville, making this an ideal location for another gallery or a unique retail shop, anitque store, bookstore or...who knows? Perhaps even a consortium of artists would like to turn it into a "co-op" gallery? It'll be available by early November. Contact Robert at: 269-561-2713 or by email at rhutchin@i2k.com
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OTHER AREA NEWS:
UPCOMING EVENTS AT MARS GALLERY IN CHICAGO
My favorite gallery in Chicago has several events of interest coming soon:

Fri Oct. 3rd. 6-10pm...Opening of a new show...paintings by Joe Morris

Sat Oct 4th and Sun Oct 5th. 12-5pm....Explore Fulton Market....neighborhood arts walk...a nice event for strolling thru the historic warehouse district (Explorefultonmarket.com)

also coming to Mars gallery in coming weeks:
Sat Nov 8th Mars Gallery's 20th Anniversary party!!
Mars Gallery - 1139 W Fulton Market - Chicago Il 60607 - Tel: 312-226-7808 - www.marsgallery.com/
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CLASS REGISTRATION OPEN FOR WATER STREET GLASS WORKS IN BENTON HARBOR
Our friend Jerry Catania and his crew are starting up their fall classes... visit www.waterstreetglassworks.org for schedule
Water Street Glassworks - info@waterstreetglassworks.org - PH: 269/925.5555 - PO Box 161 / 142 Water St.
Benton Harbor,MI 49023
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NEW AREA RESIDENT TO MI SEEKING CHEF POSITION & MAKE GOOD CONTACTS
this from a new neighbor we recently met:
My name is Barb Pilipow. I have just relocated to South Haven MI coming from Indiana. I am a Chef that has graduated LeCordon Bleu culinary school in Chicago about a year ago. I love MI for its land, the spirit that resides here and the approach to food, local, organic and sustainable. The land and produce that comes from it is what makes my passion and spirit soar. I am still looking for work,just starting to look in Kalamazoo. Any suggestions on restaurants for me to look at? I don't know where I will end up in this industry but I know it will be a great ride! tuferchef@aol.com
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CURRENT HAPPENINGS AT SATYA YOGA CENTER IS SAUGATUCK:
Here's the latest report from Michele: (Check the Satya Yoga center site listed below for details on these...)

MINDFULNESS MEDITATION WORKSHOP

Harry Das, Vivekananda Monastery
Sunday, September 28 - 6:00pm to 8:00pm

Join us for our monthly meditation workshop on Sunday, September 28th. This month we will
welcome Harry Das, resident at the Vivekananda Center in Ganges, MI. Harry Das has been
studying, practicing and teaching meditation since 1976, and has been a resident at the Center
since 1994.

He will speak on meditation techniques, followed by a guided meditation, and conclude with a
question and answer session. Harry Das is a firm advocate of meditation, and agrees it is life
changing. "Not only does it relieve stress and angst of the mind and body, it also clears the mind
for absolute awareness, and is truly essential to every day living."

The Vivekananda Monastery serves as both an ashram, as well as an educational institution
dedicated to teaching inner development aimed at discovering the Divine, both within and
without. Sri Ramakrishna used to say, "Whenever you have leisure, go into solitude for a day or
two. At that time, don't hold any conversation on worldly affairs. Live either in solitude or in the
company of the holy."

The Vivekananda Monastery and Retreat in Ganges, Michigan, provides a place for spiritual
seekers to engage in prayer, meditation and study away from the distractions and cares of daily
life. It provides an atmosphere conducive to solitude and meditation in a non-sectarian context
of reverence for all faiths, embodying the all-encompassing outlook of Sri Ramakrishna.

Please join us in welcoming Harry Das to Satya Yoga Center. We are so grateful for his visit.

A monetary donation of $10 is suggested.

Be sure to check the website for more October events and programs!
www.satyayogacenter.net - 3385 Blue Star Highway - Saugatuck - (269) 857-7289
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MICHAEL PFLEGHAAR SHOW AT THE NINES
Opens this Friday, September 26th from 5 til 9PM. New paintings and ceramic sculptures
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Continuing Education with SMAC
Explore the world of metal working art. There's no time like now to enrich your life, learn new skills, and explore your creative side. Register Now for Fall II and III 2008 classes at Smartshop Metal Arts Center

Specialized classes to get you started: Intro to Welding, Forge Flame and Hammer, & Sculptures From Found Objects. Get a taste of the metal working experience in our teaser workshops: Weekend Welding and The Family Forge. Forge forward in classes like Gimme More Metal and Intermediate Metals. Visit our website at http://www.smartshopkalamazoo.com/ to see the entire fall class list.
Smartshop Metal Arts Center.- For questions or concerns contact Michelle Walcott or Holly Fisher, email: anvilgirl@sbcglobal.net
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Capitol Steps to Poke Fun at American Politics on October 13 at Fountain Street Church

The Capitol Steps, the nationally renowned group of political satirists, comes to town on October 13, 2008, 7 p.m. at Fountain Street Church. For everyone who has been worn down by politics as usual, this evening will poke fun in a non-partisan way at everyone in this crazy, mixed-up democracy of ours.

The only group in America that attempts to be funnier than the Congress, the Capitol Steps is a troupe of current and former Congressional staffers who satirize the very people and places that once employed them.
At 7 p.m., Peter "Madcat" Ruth, the virtuoso harmonica player, will perform the opening act. Also, before and after the program, a Democracy Expo will be held to hand out literature. This will truly be a fun-filled, thought-provoking evening for all. Tickets are $25 and are available at Schuler Books and on-line at: fountainstreet.org/speakers. For more information call: (616) 234-0177, check out our web site: (http://fountainstreet.org/speakers) or e-mail us at speakers@fountainstreet.org.
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music report:

MONDAY NIGHT JAZZ JAM AT THE WHAT NOT INN:
Every Monday evening from 6 til 10 PM the WHAT NOT hosts "Jazz Jam Mondays" open mic with house band Wally Michaels on the keys, Jeff Beavin on bass and Cuzzin' Jack Wilkin on the skins.... This is great fun and always full of musical surprises.. The What Not also features live music on most weekend evenings.Visit www.whatnotinn.com for the current schedule or call 269-543-3341. The What Not is located at the corner of Blue Star Highway and M-89, just south of Douglas.
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CURRENT FOUNDRY HALL SCHEDULE:

422 Eagle St, South Haven, MI 49090, http://foundryhall.com - 269.767.5453, box office - #800.838.3006, info@foundryhall.com

Fri Sep 26, 2008 - 8:00 pm BILLY KING
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MUSIC SCHEDULE AT RYE (the pub at Journeyman)
112 e. main street - fennville, - 269.561.2269 - www.journeymancafe.com live music every Friday night at 8:30 pm. - No Cover; No Reservations.

- Friday September 26- the Djangotones- Gypsy jazz
- Friday October 3- Jen Sygit and Tahmineh Gueramy- singer songwriters-

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Bruce
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Thursday, September 18, 2008

pre-equinox THIRDSTONE NEWS (ThirdStone morphs yet again...)

THIRDSTONE NEWS AND NOTES:

The latest THIRDSTONE NEWS:

FALL GALLERY HOURS: open 5 days a week, Wednesday thru Sunday, 11 til 5 or 6 and usually later on the weekends...and also by appointment anytime - call 269-561-8149.
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NEW ART ARRIVALS THIS WEEK

Stop in to see the fresh batch of astoundifyin' metal sculptures by artist Billy Mayer that just arrived. also, there's a sort of 'sneak-peek' at some of the horrendous new work for my upcoming show (you've been warmed!)
BLOID-O-RAMA AND PAINT SPATTERS - MY "RUIN YOUR DECOR" SOLO SHOW NOW SLATED FOR OCTOBER

Okay, for all of those who've been asking why no further mention of my first solo show ever, not to worry; I'm not gonna weasel out of it this time. I do however need to insure that when it does happen that's it's suitably ludicrous. So, at this point with it so busy on a daily basis here at ThirdStone, I'm still not going to announce the exact date but it's looking like 1st weekend in October will be it for sure (probably, maybe kinda sorta or not). So just stay tuned for now....
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THIRDSTONE PENDING EVOLUTIONS N'TRANSITION N'OTHER CRAZY SHAPE-SHIFTING ADVENTURES
Yup! ThirdStone will be vacating our current home in November (or, whenever I locate a new tenant for this lovely space) and will re-appear in yet another freshly-altered form in December for our annual Holiday Show. It's time again to "rewind" the biz-plan back to what was intended to occur when I sold the original ThirdStone building and relocated T'Stone's world HQ to Funnville 3 longshort years ago.

Those of you who were around then might recall that I didn't intend to open another fulltime retail gallery at the time. Instead, I planned to hold six shows in West Michigan a year (in various 'floating' locations) and, to take travelling shows of our artists' works to other cities around the planet and also to further develop our web-based marketing efforts.

So what happened to that plan? Well, our first post-move shows were held in my "Bat-Cave" loft here in Funnville. And then, so were the next ones. And the ones after that... Hmmm, not exactly in accord with the plan but..... And then, the street level space become available and suddenly, I found myself diving headfirst back in the fulltime retail gallery biz again. No complaints of course; I met tons of new ThirdStone fans from everywhere by having done so.

Yet, I think it's more a matter of what didn't happen that's now driving the bus... That process, by keeping me tied to a brick-and-mortar location, precluded having the time to get the travelling shows underway and totally set aside web-marketing efforts too. I guess coupling that with my now 13 year long case of chronic "cabin-fever" has led me to redesign and restructure yet again.

The present array of works here at ThirdStone is by far, our best ever and is truly world-class and accordingly, needs to reach a national and global audience. More of our talented artists deserve to be making a good living with their work than are currently able to do so. So, by still having regular, fixed-duration shows here in West Michigan, we can maintain our strong local presence for all of you (and we still get to have our crazy opening events will alla the good salsa and other treats too!). But also then, that schedule will allow time for facilitating the shows that will go to other cities to be presented as special "ThirdStone Art Feature Events" which will be 'hosted' by other galleries. I already have several of these in the works for the coming months. And then, at the same time I can have more time to spend on our online marketing efforts as well.

Admittedly, a different scenario for us all. And one that I'm very excited about; we get to keep the best aspects of our efforts here at home and be able to take our artists' works further into the world-at-large too.

Anyway, to put all of this in motion, here's the current plan.

- My solo "Decimate-Your-Decor" show will launch on Friday evening October 3 with an opening reception and party from 7 til 11 PM.

- On Saturday October 18th from 6 til 9PM, we'll hold a closing reception for my show and, will announce our winners for the 'Ruin-Your-Decor" contest. That evening will also be a "Bon Voyage" celebration for ThirdStone with a kickoff event for our "Moving Sale" during which there will be special sale discounts on selected artworks and, all of the gallery's furniture and fixtures will be up for grabs too.

- The remainder of the month will continue the moving sale and will feature a couple other special events...more news on those in the next issue....

- Then, the last week of November will launch our annual holiday show (location to be announced soon!) and will be followed in December by a couple special related events.

There's bound to be a few other details that will require adjustments of one sort or another but for now, this gives you the basic scenario. One last bit of business to address is listed below:

THIRDSTONE GALLERY SPACE IS AVAILABLE FOR RENT OR LEASE
Yeah, this cool space is now becoming available for the 'right' business to move into. There's lots of space in an only 5 year old, super-modern building. Includes private parking, energy-efficient utilities all in a great location here in thriving downtown Fenville And, at a very reasonable rental rate too. The building's owner will likely give preferential consideration to a business that can be a "draw" for downtown Fennville, making this an ideal location for another gallery or a unique retail shop, anitque store, bookstore or...who knows? Perhaps even a consortium of artists would like to turn it into a "co-op" gallery? It'll be available by early November. Contact Robert at: 269-561-2713 or by email at rhutchin@i2k.com
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OTHER AREA NEWS:
THIRDSTONE ARTIST BILLY MAYER FEATURED AT WASHINGTON STREET GALLERY
Washington Square Art Gallery is having a party for BILLY MAYER. You know the wonderful Holland sculptor (and cool Hope College professor). Lots of his LARGE sculptures are featured. Join Billy FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 19 from 6-9pm. There will be great refreshments (from Pereddies) and live music (by Jim Cooper). The gallery is located next to Pereddie's Restaurant at 453 Washington Square in Holland. - Bring a friend and enjoy the evening.
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Fall Stonecarving Classes Offered at Ark

If you've ever wanted to try your hand at sculpting that most enduring material stone, your chance has come. Sculptor Marcia Perry will offer two workshop opportunities beginning September 22nd. Classes require no former experience and include guided instruction, basic materials and the use of all necessary tools.
"Contrary to popular belief, not all stone is difficult to carve," says Perry. "And the reward is creating something that can truly last forever."

"Slicing into Stone" offers a chance to experience the delights of working with soapstone. In just one day, students learn the basic safe uses of tools and create their own three-dimensional sculptures. Cost is $95.00

The four-session "Carved in Stone" class focuses on the tools and techniques of shaping limestone, alabaster or other medium-hard stones. Participants will use mallets, chisels and rasps (just like Michelangelo!) and some contemporary power tools to assist the process. Tools and materials are provided or attendees may bring their own. Cost is $250.00. Classes begin September 23rd. Students who enroll in both classes receive a $50.00 discount.

The stone artwork created in the workshops will be featured as part of The Ark's Gallery Stroll exhibit October 11-13th. Classes are limited in size. Pre-registration is required.
For further details, contact Marcia Perry by phone at 269-857-4210 or email at marcia@marciaperry-ark.com or stop by Marcia Perry's Ark Gallery and Sculpture Studio at 6248 Blue Star Highway, two miles northeast of Saugatuck and six miles south of Holland marciaperry-ark.com
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CLASS REGISTRATION OPEN FOR WATER STREET GLASS WORKS IN BENTON HARBOR
Our friend Jerry Catania and his crew are starting up their fall classes... visit www.waterstreetglassworks.org for schedule
Water Street Glassworks - info@waterstreetglassworks.org - PH: 269/925.5555 - PO Box 161 / 142 Water St.
Benton Harbor,MI 49023
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NEW AREA RESIDENT TO MI SEEKING CHEF POSITION & MAKE GOOD CONTACTS
this from a new neighbor we recently met:
My name is Barb Pilipow. I have just relocated to South Haven MI coming from Indiana. I am a Chef that has graduated LeCordon Bleu culinary school in Chicago about a year ago. I love MI for its land, the spirit that resides here and the approach to food, local, organic and sustainable. The land and produce that comes from it is what makes my passion and spirit soar. I am still looking for work,just starting to look in Kalamazoo. Any suggestions on restaurants for me to look at? I don't know where I will end up in this industry but I know it will be a great ride! tuferchef@aol.com
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COOL ARTIST ESTATE SALE- St. Joseph. COMING SEPTEMBER 19 & 20
50 year's worth* of artist's estate items! Collectibles, Vintage, Ethnic, Original Art, Vintage Books and Art Books, Household Items, Furniture & Much More. Don't miss this one- many treasures to be found! *Friday, September 19th, 9 a.m.- 5 p.m. & Sat. the 20th, 9 a.m.- 2 p.m.* Place: 1410 Lewis Ave., St. Joseph, MI. From Niles Ave to Broad St. to Langley Ave., turn _east_ onto Lewis, to end at River Ridge, (on the St. Joe River.) No early sales. Plenty for everyone. Contact Liz at: lizartx@wmol.com if you have questions.
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Huge Estate Sale This weekend - Northside Holland
Pre-sale, Friday, September 19, 2008, 5:00 – 7:00 pm, Saturday, September 20, 9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. - 497 Riley Street
Holland, Michigan - (North side of Holland – just east of Butternut Drive) - Antiques, Furniture, Tools
Conducted by Carriage House Antique Service
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CURRENT HAPPENINGS AT SATYA YOGA CENTER IS SAUGATUCK:
Here's the latest report from Michele: (Check the Satya Yoga center site listed below for details on these...)

GLOBAL MALA PEACE PROJECT
Hi Friends,
You are cordially invited (see attached) to participate in the WORLD'S LARGEST ORGANIZED YOGA EVENT to help promote world peace through the form of body prayer. The event is called The Global Mala Peace Project (www.globalmala.org), and yoga communities around the world will be practicing a cycle of 108 movements (the number on the sacred mala) at sunrise on September 21 and 22. We will be moving and sending out prayers with those across the GLOBE! The energy and intention alone is pure inspiration!
On SUNDAY, SEPT 21, we will begin at 7am, practice for approximately one hour, and end with lots of water and light refreshments.
I hope you can join us. It means a lot to us at Satya to represent our area - and hope you will help support this wonderful cause. Please pass the word......blessings to you all!
Namaste!
Michele
Be sure to check the website for more September events!
www.satyayogacenter.net - 3385 Blue Star Highway - Saugatuck - (269) 857-7289
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Capitol Steps to Poke Fun at American Politics on October 13 at Fountain Street Church

The Capitol Steps, the nationally renowned group of political satirists, comes to town on October 13, 2008, 7 p.m. at Fountain Street Church. For everyone who has been worn down by politics as usual, this evening will poke fun in a non-partisan way at everyone in this crazy, mixed-up democracy of ours.

The only group in America that attempts to be funnier than the Congress, the Capitol Steps is a troupe of current and former Congressional staffers who satirize the very people and places that once employed them.
At 7 p.m., Peter "Madcat" Ruth, the virtuoso harmonica player, will perform the opening act. Also, before and after the program, a Democracy Expo will be held to hand out literature. This will truly be a fun-filled, thought-provoking evening for all. Tickets are $25 and are available at Schuler Books and on-line at: fountainstreet.org/speakers. For more information call: (616) 234-0177, check out our web site: (http://fountainstreet.org/speakers) or e-mail us at speakers@fountainstreet.org.
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music report:

MONDAY NIGHT JAZZ JAM AT THE WHAT NOT INN:
Every Monday evening from 6 til 10 PM the WHAT NOT hosts "Jazz Jam Mondays" open mic with house band Wally Michaels on the keys, Jeff Beavin on bass and Cuzzin' Jack Wilkin on the skins.... This is great fun and always full of musical surprises.. The What Not also features live music on most weekend evenings.Visit www.whatnotinn.com for the current schedule or call 269-543-3341. The What Not is located at the corner of Blue Star Highway and M-89, just south of Douglas.
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CURRENT FOUNDRY HALL SCHEDULE:

422 Eagle St, South Haven, MI 49090, http://foundryhall.com - 269.767.5453, box office - #800.838.3006, info@foundryhall.com


Sat Sep 20, 2008 - 8:00 pm A NIGHT ON THE TOWN social dance

Wed Sep 24, 2008 - 7:00 pm BREAD N JAM open mic

Thu Sep 25, 2008 - 7:30 pm SALLY SPRING, Patricia Pettinga

Fri Sep 26, 2008 - 8:00 pm BILLY KING
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MUSIC SCHEDULE AT RYE (the pub at Journeyman)
112 e. main street - fennville, - 269.561.2269 - www.journeymancafe.com
live music every Friday night at 8:30 pm. - No Cover; No Reservations.

- Friday September 19- Double bill with blues from Mississippi Gabe Carter and original tunes from Ben Bueltmann
- Friday September 26- the Djangotones- Gypsy jazz
- Friday October 3- Jen Sygit and Tahmineh Gueramy- singer songwriters-

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Thanks for readin' and, of course, for passing this along!

Bruce
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Friday, September 12, 2008

UH-OH! IT'S RUIN YOUR DECOR TIME AT THIRDSTONE...

Yup! Trainwreck time here at the old ThirdStone Rancho - with truculence, travesty and enigmae for all...More news about this horrendous event coming soonly - stay tuna-ed!