Thursday, October 30, 2008

OUR MOVING SALE AND A SPECIAL 'UPDATE' EDITION

THIRDSTONE NEWS AND NOTES:


FALL GALLERY HOURS: by appointment anytime - call 269-561-8149. (see below for remaining open hours during our moving sale)
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AN EDITORIAL EXPLORTICATION (OF SORTS) -
I guess I've been a bit surprised by the reactions to ThirdStone's latest "Shape-Shifting" announcements. While it's of course most gratifying to hear from so many how much ThirdStone will be missed, it also points out to me that I haven't done an adequate job making clear what it's all about and where we're headed from here...

In a word (let us use "rewind", as that word, shall we?), I'm returning ThirdStone to the course that was charted over three years ago when I sold the Laketown building. Those of you who were around back then might recall that the intent was to depart the fulltime retail gallery business in order to better and more widely promote and market the works of our many talented artists. That plan includes holding 5 or 6 local West Michigan shows in a variety of locations and, the rest of the time, to be sending shows of ThirdStone artists to other cities. The other aspect of that plan was to place extensive added effort into online marketing.

So....
Okay, obviously, that plan was not exactly what transpired at that time. Various twists of fate, interesting circumstances and sundry other factors conspired to keep me in the retail biz another couple years anyway. All in all, I'm glad it did. Our customer base/fan base has expanded exponentially in these last couple years which now gives me even a better 'infrastructure' upon which to launch this newest iteration of ThirdStone.

Okay. So what's next?
CURRENTLY: Our Moving/Shop-closing sale begins tomorrow and will continue this weekend and next (detailed info below)
NEXT EVENT: Our annual ThirdStone Holiday Show. Preview event opens Thanksgiving weekend, our Annual Holiday Party & Open House will happen as usual, second weekend in December and continues thru the 1st week of the New Year.
AFTER THAT: Well, first I'm gonna turn off my phone, shut down my damn computer and then take my 1st Winter vacation in 14 years. (And no, I ain't tellin' anybody where I'm goin'!). Then, in February our 1st "hosted' out-of-town show will happen followed by others every other month in '09.
AND IN WEST MICHIGAN: our 1st "hometown" show of the new year will be in March when (hopefully), the tundra will have thawed a bit by then. There will be 4 other hometown shows the remainder of 2009. Locations will vary just to keep things interesting. This newsletter of course will provide all the details well in advance.
AND BESIDES ALLA THAT STUFF: Our two new websites will launch before the end of the year; one to promote our West Michgan and remote location shows but also, primarily geared to facilitate online sales. The second site will be dedicated to promoting and then co-curating our traveling shows that will be hosted by other galleries out in the big world.
THE WHY AND WHEREFORE: In a nutshell, to reaffirm and better achieve the original ThirdStone "charter" or mission...
WHICH ARE: the primary goals of ThirdStone are and have always been twofold, AND with both aspects being equally important:
1.To get the work of our many talented, innovative, non-mainstream artists in front of more eyes in the public-at-large,Truth be told, it ain't even really about the art folks or, at least, not just about sellin' it.... Our culture/society has an absolutely abysmal grasp of natural creative process. Yet, it's that very process that keeps civilization alive and moving forward. EVERYONE has access to creative spirit, it's our evolutionary drive, the source of our 'chi' or life-force or whatever you wish to call it.Those among us who choose to become our artists are fulfilling an important role by bringing beauty, balance and mystery into our highly challenged existence. And without that folks, we're left with freakin' TV!
2.The other goal is to "crack the code' of how working artists (who are of course, highly skilled tradespeople' in their own right) can actually make a halfway decent living by providing the rest of us with their efforts. The "art-marketing" gallery industry in general has never really done a good job of this nor has it ever truly demonstrated that it had the best interests of their living working artists at heart.The objective here was and remains, simply to change that.

Of course, I realize I'm "preaching to the choir" here since all of you already "get" all of that in the first place. And, because of that, this is a good time to let you in on how you can help further these processes. (Betcha knew THAT was comin' sooner or later, right?)

No biggie - it's simple. Just tell every one ya know about our cool as heck moving and store closing sale - See? I told ya it was simple!

I've got tons to do to get these new adventures under way so, the more stuff here in the shop that can go to new homes in the next two weeks, the less time I'll need to spend moving it all somewhere ELSE. More important, is the aspect of raising "fundage" to help fuel ThirdStone's forthcoming projects.Our first "outtatowner" show is coming up soon and raisin' some bux is essential to getting this 'travelling show' process underway....

Here's the scoop....








VIRTUALLY ALL FURNISHINGS, FIXTURES, DISPLAYS AND OTHER STUFF IS FOR SALE.

DATES: EARLY BIRD SALE: THIS FRIDAY, SATURDAY AND SUNDAY, 11 TIL 5 - FOR NEWSLETTER READERS ONLY... SALE WILL NOT BE ADVERTISED TO THE PUBLIC UNTIL NEXT WEEK.

(AND THEN, WILL CONTINUE),
NEXT THURSDAY, FRIDAY, SATURDAY AND SUNDAY (NOVEMBER 6, 7, 8 & 9)

HERE'S JUST SOME OF WHAT'S AVAILABLE:

- MANY SHEVING UNITS OF MANY DIFFERENT TYPES/SIZES
- LIGHTED GLASS DISPLAY CASES
- FULLY LIGHTED 'CHINA-CABINET' 5 SHELF DISPLAY CASE
- DESKS
- LAMPS
- PEDESTALS
- TABLES
- MISCELLANEOUS FURINSHINGS, FIXTURES, ETC.
- VINTAGE ROLLING STEEL MULTI-DRAWER TOOL CABINET
- ASSORTED COOL AND VINTAGE CHAIRS (A.K.A. "BUTT PLATFORMS")
- PICTURE FRAMES, PHOTO FRAMES
- MANY VINTAGE "FUNKJUNK" ITEMS, BIZARRE OBJECTS AND COLLECTIBLES
- MISCELLANEOUS TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT
- 2 NICE METAL FILE CABINETS
- 50'S, MID-CENTURY, PRIMITIVE AND OTHER VINTAGE FURNITURE
- 5 DRAWER CHEST OF DRAWERS (CONTEMPORARY)
- ANTIQUE DOCTOR'S OFFICE DESK AND CABINET COMBO
- VINTAGE DECO LOVE SEAT (NEWLY UPHOLSTERED)
- VINTAGE GLASSWARE, BARWARE, ACCESSORIES
- MISC. 'DECOR' ITEMS
- GIGANTORNORMOUS CABINET-PLYWOOD MULTI-STORAGE UNIT
- MINI-FRIDGE
- MICROWAVE OVEN
- TOASTER OVEN
- A COUPLE COOL 50'S NIGHTSTANDS
- A COUPLE COOL BLONDE 50'S CABINETS, SIDEBOARDS
- FOLDING/COLLAPSIBLE TABLES
- VINTAGE WOODEN BOXES, CRATES, ETCETERAS AND STUFF
- HP 'ALL-IN-ONE' PRINTER/SCANNER/COPIER/FAX ALMOST NEW
- 10 FOOT ALUMINUM STEP LADDER
- 2 STEP LADDERS
- BIG FLOOR MOP/MOP BUCKET ON WHEELS - ALMOST NEW
- LOTSA MUSIC CD'S - ONLY $2 EACH OR 6 FOR $10!
- VINTAGE 60'S TEAK TV/MICROWAVE CART
- HAMMOND ORGAN AND BENCH- GOOD CONDITION
- GUITAR AMPS, GUITARS AND MISC. MUSIC GEAR, MIDI KEYBOARD
- NUMEROUS CD AND MEDIA STORAGE UNITS
- HASBOFREENS, KOLLYFRIERNS AND MACRO-MTUMBA SPLORKADUNIAS
- VARIOUS COOL, LARGE, ROLLING STORAGE UNITS
- HEAPSA LOTSA TONZA UNCATEGORIZED BUT UTTERLY MARVELOUS AND/OR THOROUGHLY RIDICULOUS STUFF YOU CLEARLY CANNOT LIVE WITHOUT...

AND EVEN MORE REASONS TO PAY US A VISIT DURING THIS EVENT.......

PLUS...

- SELECTED DISCOUNTED ARTWORKS FROM THE THIRDSTONE COLLECTION
- ALL MONIQUE BORREGO JEWELRY PRICED AT 40% OFF
- ALL SARAH HURLEY PAINTINGS 20% OFF
- A WHOLE BIG PILE OF CRAZYASS ASSEMBLOIDS ALL DISCOUNT PRICED

AND.....
PRETTY MUCH WHATEVER ELSE I CAN THINK OF OR THAT YOU CAN GRAB....

SO PLEASE, TELL ALLA YOUR FRIENDS AND BRING YOUR TRUCKS TOO!!

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Thanks for readin' and, of course, for passing this along! Our regular local news updates will return next issue so, keep sendin' me pertinent info for upcoming events so we can spread the word.

Bruce
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Thursday, October 16, 2008

MOVING SALE, 'RUIN-YOUR-DECOR' CONTEST AND BRIAN CUTEAN CONCERT!

THIRDSTONE NEWS AND NOTES:

FALL GALLERY HOURS: open Thursday 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 CONTINUES. CONTEST WINNERS TO BE ANNOUNCED FRIDAY
My "Ruin Your Decor" show opened a couple weeks ago to a surprisingly good response (ya weirdos!) So, please join us THIS Friday evening from 6 til 9 PM for the CONTEST WINNERS AWARDS PARTY. There's LOTSA crazyass Assembloids (my largest and weirdest batch in over a decade...) And, there's still a whole bunchalotta goofy-lookin' flattish sorta thangs that I'm daring to refer to as "paintings" too. This place is dripping in travesty, enigmae and truculence and, at unprecedented levels of ludicrosity.Gulp - it's almost scary!(And, intensely stoopidsilly too!). and to make it even cooler, lots of stuff will be "on sale" at special prices too, Please join us!!

Also featured along with my own 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 absurd 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
(that's today folks, but, I will accept late ones til 1:00PM tomorrow). 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.

SO REMEMBER: JOIN US THIS FRIDAY EVENING FOR OUR CONTEST WINNERS' PARTY!

SPECIAL SALE THIS MONTH:40% OFF ALL JEWELRY BY THIRDSTONE ARTIST/DESIGNER, MONIQUE BORREGO
Monique has decided to "shift gears" for the upcoming season and has decided to offer all of her jewelry presently here will be ofered for the remainder of the month at 40% prices. Might be a good time to do a bit of early holiday shoppoing!
=======================
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 to Fennville in '05.

So, for all of you who've inquired, yes, ThirdStone will still be around; just not in a fulltime 'retail gallery' form. We'll host about 6 West Michigan shows per year in Fennville and other area locations. In between our "hometown" shows, I'll be taking shows of ThirdStone artists' works to bigger ponds/other cities. I'm very excited to finally be doing this because, ultimately, it means that more of our artists will then be able to make a fulltime living rfom sales of their art. 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 world. By the way, ThirdStone's super-affordable custom framing service will still be right here in Fennville.. It's simply moving upstairs about 20 feet in the same building at 120 East Main St.

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 or so. Contact Robert at: 269-561-2713 or by email at rhutchin@i2k.com
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thirdstone's moving sale preview starts this weekend
Advance notice to our readers I haven't yet put my ads in the local papers and such so, this is a chance to make your selections before the general public. I'm clearing the decks and starting our moving sale early to prep for the move and, to maximize available space for our 2008 holiday show. Here's the scoop.. ALL of the furnishings, fixtures, displays, shelving etc are up for grabs...pretty much everything in the gallery. There's a few antiques and some vintage pieces, some nice 50's and mid-century furniture and LOTS of interesting and useful miscellany for YOUR home, shop and/or studio. there's also some art supplies, studio gear and other cool stuff and, our funkjunk department will have lots of sale prices too. Hours are Thursday thru Sunday, 11 til 5 or 6 thru the end of the month.
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BRIAN CUTEAN IN CONCERT THIS SATURDAY, OCTOBER 18, 8PM:
The 2nd event in the new Satya Yoga Center/ThirdStone monthly performance series
Yup; my bro' Brian is rolling into Michigan as part of his Annual Fall Midwest Tour. This year's concert will be hosted at Sarya Yoga Center in Saugatuck. Here's Michele's blurb with all the info:

Hi Friends & Family!
As most of you know, Brian Cutean (QTN) will be returning to Saugatuck this month, and is our featured artist as part of our on-going "Barefoot Indoor Picnic Concert Series". If you were with us for the FABulous Jenna Mammina, you'll recall it was a very relaxed, comfortable environment - excellent acoustics - and close up and center with the artist themselves!
The theme behind the Barefoot Indoor Picnic Concert Series is just that. Barefoot - BYOB&B (basket of refreshments & blanket) and excellent music.
Be sure to get your tickets in advance to be sure of getting to see the show. And we would ask that you please help us spread the word! It promises to be a one-of-a kind concert (if you know Brian - you would expect only that!) - loads of story telling, cool jams, and a message of true peace and love. Just what we need right now, wouldn't you agree?
Thanks for your help, and hope to see you there!
Namaste all! Peace, love and gratitude!
Michele
www.satyayogacenter.net
ADVANCE TICKETS AVAILABLE AT THIRDSTONE GALLERY AND ONLINE AT:
http://www.thirdstoneartgallery.com/online-shows/briantix.html
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OTHER AREA NEWS:

Climb for Hope - Annie Hotwagner, one of 60 women who has run marathons on all 7 continents, is climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro for the patients of Wings of Hope Hospice in January 2009. This climb is part of her newest mission, Climb for Hope, "I have teamed up with Wings of Hope Hospice to raise both funds and awareness to benefit the efforts of Wings of Hope's hospice care in Allegan County. The funds raised will specifically benefit the patients of Wings of Hope Hospice, covering the costs of medications needed for managing pain," states Hotwagner, a resident of Saugatuck.

Wings of Hope Hospice is hosting two Meet and Greet events for supporters to get to know this outstanding woman. The first is on Saturday, October 18, from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at Water Street Gallery in Douglas and a second at Fenn Valley Vineyards, Fennville on Tuesday, November 11th from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. We encourage everyone to stop by. Beverages and light snacks will be provided.

For more information, please contact the Wings of Hope Hospice office at 269-686-8659 or 800-796-2676.
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HOUSE FOR RENT - FENNVILLE
Very nice 3 bedrooms brick home in wonderful rural beauty. Also includes HUGE extra deep 3-stall garage, all set on 17 acres just outside Fennville on 63rd. Street, just off M089. Fully equipped, good appliances, available immediately.Very reasonable rent plus utilities. Call 616-499-5523 or email "tybower@hotmail.com" for detailed information.

ANOTHER HOUSE FOR RENT NEAR FENNVILLE

Beautiful secluded space for your private nature retreat awaits you....explore nature,trails and a trout stream. The house has 3 bedrooms, an open kitchen-great room-dining room combo with a wood stove, a huge rec room with gas fireplace, 2 full baths, washer & dryer a HUGE pole barn perfect for an artist studio or storage. Close to cross country ski trails in the Allegan woods. It's located only 3 miles from downtown Fennville, and about 10 miles to Saugatuck/Douglas beaches, close to Kalamazoo and Holland. A unique opportunity awaits you. Available NOW. Tenant pays all utilities, security deposit, pets negotiable( with additional security deposit). For more information and more pictures, go to www.FennvilleRetreat.com
Available Mid October, asking $1000.00/month. Call 312-550-9319. Prefer an 8 moth lease but would consider all, for a week, a month..it can rented with furniture as well.
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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...)

THIS SATURDAY, OCTOBER 18, 8PM: BRIAN CUTEAN IN CONCERT. ADVANCE TIX AVAILABLE ONLINE AT WWW.THIRDSTONEARTGALLERY.COM. (NOW GO AND BUY YOURS!!!! YA DON'T WANNA MISS THIS). Tickets will also be available at the door the evening of the event...

FALL FOOD DRIVE PROJECT: This fall, Satya Yoga Center (SYC) will continue its commitment to seva (the spirit of service) by sponsoring a food drive. SYC will accept donations of non-perishable food items throughout the months of October and November. The proceeds of the collection will be distributed between several local food banks.
"It is our responsibility as yogis to look for ways to serve those in our community." says Ami Harju, Satya's Director of Promotions. "Seane Corn said "If not me, then who? How dare we not." At Satya, we are continuously finding opportunities where one person can make a real difference in the lives of others by saying just that. We look to continue that into this holiday season by giving to those who are in need. It's only a few cans, just a few dollars, to some of us, but to others it can make all the difference in the world."
Donations will be collected through mid-November so they can be distributed in time for the Thanksgiving holiday. Items can be brought to class or left in the outside lobby of the building Monday through Friday, 9-5. For off-hour donations, please remember the center has limited hours; please check the web site www.satyayogacenter.net for class schedules and times.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 18, 8PM: BRIAN CUTEAN IN CONCERT. ADVANCE TIX AVAILABLE ONLINE AT WWW.THIRDSTONEARTGALLERY.COM. (NOW GO AND BUY YOURS!!!! YA DON'T WANNA MISS THIS)

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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Continuing Education with SMAC and,upcoming weekend workshop too!
Join us for a great weekend packed full of super fun experiential learning! Learn to weld in just a few hours! ENROLL NOW FOR THE SMARTSHOP METAL ARTS CENTER'S WEEKEND WELDING WORKSHOP, OCT. 24-26
Spend lots of quality work time in a spacious, well-equipped metal working studio with an experienced, enthusiastic, incredibly helpful instructor. You'll make a wall hung sculpture, a small lidded box, a 4' – 6' high garden flower, and a project of your choosing. $425.00 PER STUDENT, INCLUDES MATERIALS.
Enroll Today! call: 269 - 345 - 7285 - email: anvilgirl@sbcglobal.net
WEEKEND WELDING WORKSHOP - Meets Friday, Oct. 24th (6-8 pm), and Saturday, Oct.25th (9 am-5 pm), and Sunday, Oct. 26 (9 am -4 pm). Experience Level: Novice to advanced.

Designed specifically for our out-of-town and very busy friends who would like to learn more about welding and artistic metal working. Spend lots of quality work time in a spacious, well-equipped metal working studio with an experienced, enthusiastic, incredibly helpful instructor. You'll make a wall hung sculpture, a small lidded box, a 4' – 6' high garden flower, and a project of your choosing. Bring lots of drinking water and a snack. 4 students min. 8 students max. Cost: $375.00 + $50.00 materials = $425.00 per student. 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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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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BRIAN CUTEAN IN CONCERT AT SATYA YOGA CENTER - THIS SATURDAY OCT. 18 8PM
Tix at www.thirdstoneartgallery.com or, at the door evening of the event. 269-561-8149. Also, below are a couple other opportunities to hear Brian around West Michigan this week:

BRIAN CUTEAN HOUSE CONCERT IN GRAND RAPIDS, FRIDAY OCT. 17 hosted by Mark DePree
from 8-10pm. Door opens at 7:30pm -House concert featuring Brian Cutean-$10 admission at the door.
At the home of Mark DePree,1536 Walker Av. NW (just south of Leonard St)Grand Rapids, Mi - 616-735-9587
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BERNIE JELLEMA AT LUCKY STONE PUB:
a solo acoustic show Sat. Oct. 18 at the Lucky Stone Pub in Douglas 8PM til midnight. at the Saugatuck Brewing Co., 2948 Blue Star Hwy., on the south end of Douglas, MI.
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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

Sun Oct 19, 2008
6:00 pm COSTUME BALL and SOCIAL DANCE

Wed Oct 22, 2008
7:00 pm BREAD N JAM open mic

Fri Oct 24, 2008
7:30 pm KELLY JOE PHELPS, Drew Nelson

Sat Oct 25, 2008
7:30 pm COMMON SHIN
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MUSIC SCHEDULE AT RYE (the pub at Journeyman) - live music at RYE every Friday night, no cover!

Friday October 17- Rachael Davis Trio- RYE - 8:00PM Join Michigan's favorite folk songstress, "a contemporary songwriter... equally at home singing anything from traditional ballads to Cole Porter to Joe Henry"

Sunday October 19- Brian Cutean- journeyman cafe- 6:00- 8:00PM. Pacific northwest troubadour stops singing and plays an evening of wordless guitar qtnstrumentals. Check in on Brian at www.qtnrg.org

112 e. main street - fennville, - 269.561.2269 - www.journeymancafe.com live music every Friday night at 8:30 pm. - No Cover; No Reservations.
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Thanks for readin' and, of course, for passing this along!
Bruce
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Wednesday, October 8, 2008

and so...


Wednesday, October 1, 2008

IT'S "RUIN YOUR DECOR" SHOWTIME AT THIRDSTONE THIS WEEK!

THIRDSTONE NEWS AND NOTES:

FALL GALLERY HOURS: open Thursday thru Sunday, 11 til 5 or 6 and usually later on the weekends...and also by appointment anytime - call 269-561-8149.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------
BLOID-O-RAMA AND PAINT SPATTERS - MY "RUIN YOUR DECOR" SOLO SHOW OPENS THIS FRIDAY OCTOBER 3.
YUP..IT'S FINALLY ALMOST HERE... Join us 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.

SO REMEMBER: JOIN US THIS FRIDAY EVENING FOR OUR SHOW OPENING PARTY AND FOOD AND FUN AND FROLIC!

=======================
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 still be around. We'll 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. By the way, ThirdStone's super-affordable custom framing service will still be right here in Fennville.. It's simply moving upstairs about 20 feet in the same building at 120 East Main St.

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 or so. 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 in Chicago....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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SEEKING BUYERS FOR 48 ACRES IN GANGES - FOR ECO VILLAGE, RETIREMENT COMMUNITY, ETC.

Mothers Trust/Lakeshore Interfaith Institute is an interfaith education center, providing public programs on different faiths, traditions and ways of living. Our presenters practice what they talk about, whatever the tradition or belief system. We also have a strong focus on the value and necessity of service, in whatever ways are necessary. We always wanted to see a community develop and over the years, about 15 individuals and families have purchased land around our center. A few have gone as far as building homes. We managed to secure about 90 acres in 2005 and hope to see a community develop there.

Now that we all our facing peak oil and all it signifies, sustainable methods of creating community are all the more attractive. Our desire is to sell the land to an individual or group who would want to create community that uses alternative forms of energy, organic food growing, etc. Such a community could be a 501c3 or an educational institute - specializing on practical sustainability applications. The community could generate funds through educational programs, running an organic farm and giving tours of the ancient forest remnant on the land.

If interested, contact Glenn Davenport, baba@accn.org or 616-293-6884
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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...)

the FINAL Yoga for Cyclists ride & yoga class for the season on Saturday, October 4th at 12 noon
with class following at 2pm.

The ride will be FUN, LEISURE (or competitive depending on your liking!) - and the best part - IT WILL INCLUDE CIDER & DONUTS AT CRANE'S mid way through!

Please try to join us - and help us pass the word around by either forwarding this email to your friends, or printing the attached flyer & handing out anywhere / everywhere!

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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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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Brazilian Groove" with Paulinho Garcia & Friends - Saturday, October 11, 2008,

8 pm, $25. Lakeshore Jazz Connection and Saugatuck Center for the Arts Present: "Brazilian Groove" with Paulinho Garcia & Friends
For the final concert of 2008, LJC's perennial favorite, Brazilian vocalist/guitarist Paulinho Garcia performs
with a combination of different musicians from Chicago. For tickets call SCA at 269 857-2399, visit their website at www.sc4a.org/ or buy them at the door.
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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

Thu Oct 02, 2008 - 7:00 pm TANGLEFOOT

Fri Oct 03, 2008 - 8:00 pm BOB GIBSON LEGACY SHOW

Sat Oct 04, 2008 - 7:00 pm THE MICKEYS
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MUSIC SCHEDULE AT RYE (the pub at Journeyman)
- Friday October 3- Jen Sygit and Tahmineh Gueramy- singer songwriters-

- sat. Oct 4th porkapalooza - . a special daylong event of music and food and fun. (located at red horse farm near Fennville)
info here: http://www.savegaseatpork.com/

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 October 3- Jen Sygit and Tahmineh Gueramy- singer songwriters-
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Bruce
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