.
LATE NEWS... January 4, 2020...
From halfway around the world. On Thursday morning, 41% of Australia was burning. By Friday morning, it was OVER FIFTY PERCENT. By Saturday morning (Jan 4th), hundreds of fires were merging, and three of those fires had, overnight, become one fire larger than Manhattan Island.
Even as smoldering wreckage comprised hundreds of thousands of square miles, there are, at the moment Saturday morning, 23,000 square miles actively ablaze, and just that much is bigger than the entirety of the US states of New Jersey, Maryland, and Delaware, combined.
Over 100,000 people have been evacuated, some by sea, thanks to the Australian navy. Thousands who did not leave, when told to go, can no longer get out, and face the worst kind of uncertain fate.
The Earth's geologic record tells us that the last time more than half an entire continent was burning was just after the Chicxulub Impact -- the asteroid that killed the dinosaurs and eliminated more than 70% of all species on the planet.
The Earth's natural systems cannot receive the biomass of living carbon from an entire continent, after it has been converted into carbon black soot and greenhouse gas carbon compounds -- not without enormous changes to the atmosphere and the planet's average temperatures.
Global climate change brought Australia's record high temperatures and record drought. Now Australia's fires are accelerating global climate change. Even as politicians take money from corporate ("corpirate") climate change causer/deniers, and engage in bloviating distractions, obfuscations -- and anything they can think of to keep you from holding their feet to the very literal fire.
=÷=÷=÷=÷=÷=÷=÷=÷=÷=÷=÷=÷=÷=÷=÷=
Global climate change brought Australia's record high temperatures and record drought. Now Australia's fires are accelerating global climate change. Even as politicians take money from corporate ("corpirate") climate change causer/deniers, and engage in bloviating distractions, obfuscations -- and anything they can think of to keep you from holding their feet to the very literal fire.
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The Guide's latest roundup of events, published December 21st and updated almost continuously since then, is a click away, here.
Here's THIS edition as originally published...
Here's our Guide to NEW YEAR'S EVENTS in (or tangent to) the sphere of Acoustic and Americana music and sensibilities. It's also our look at a year ending and the opportunity of a year ahead, with a perspective on history, human achievement vs. human potential, and science and the arts vs. bs and baloney.
The Guide's compilations of recommended arts events beyond January 1st -- both those ongoing into the New Year (that you can send your holiday guests to do) and as much as we've compiled on concerts and other things coming on specific dates -- are in our final wrap-up of events, published December 21st and updated almost continuously since then.
It's a click away, here.
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Tuesday
December 31, 2019
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THOUGHT FOR TODAY from one born on this date...
"An artist should never be a prisoner of himself, prisoner of style, prisoner of reputation, prisoner of success..."
-- Henri Matisse, artist (botn Dec 31, 1869, died in 1954).
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THOUGHT FOR TODAY from one born on this date...
"An artist should never be a prisoner of himself, prisoner of style, prisoner of reputation, prisoner of success..."
-- Henri Matisse, artist (botn Dec 31, 1869, died in 1954).
___
Today is more than just the last day of the year. Some significant things got their start on this day.
On this day in 1812 (207 years ago), during the War of 1812, the three-masted, square-rigged sailing vessel USS Constitution captured the larger British warship HMS Java off the coast of Brazil after a three-hour battle. It was one of the first triumphs of "Yankee ingenuity," as the Constitution's radical hull construction functioned as a structural spring that repelled incoming cannonballs. The British navy of the time was considered invincible. Indeed, it was at its zenith as the world's most powerful fleet. But it could not defeat "Old Ironsides," the USS Constitution, which mounted only half as many guns as many of its foes. The American vessel with its secret innovative design went on to victory after victory, sinking or capturing British vessels in every encounter, and using its superior speed to escape any confrontation it could not win.
That now-obscure war would give the fledgling upstart United States of America its international treaty guarantees of permanent national sovereignty. It would also give the young nation a navy and a national anthem.
That last part deserves exploration. Francis Scott Key's poem, "The Defense of Ft. McHenry" -- written by Key when he was a peace envoy being held prisoner aboard a British warship -- was set to the melody of an English beer-drinking pub song, "To Anachreon in Heaven." It was impossible to sing sober. It pretty much still is. You know it as "The Star-Spangled Banner."
The remains of the flag in the song can be seen in the Smithsonian in Washington, DC. A full-sized replica is raised daily by tourist volunteers who are directed through the unfurlment and hoisting of the huge flag by the National Park Service at Ft. McHenry in Baltimore harbor. And the USS Constitution, in Boston harbor and crewed by active-duty US Navy sailors, continues as the world's oldest warship still afloat.
150 years ago today, the newly-completed first transcontinental railroad was getting its first test of winter operability, over the California High Sierra and the Great South Pass of the Rockies on Wyoming's Sherman Hill, after the driving of the Golden Spike seven months earlier, in May of 1869.
Seventy-five years ago today the Nazis last desperate offensive effort to prolong World War II, the Battle of the Bulge, was still being beaten back by the counterattacking American army in December, 1944.
Fifty years ago today, NASA was readying Apollo 13 for launch, having successfully completed the first human landings on another celestial body with Apollo 11 in July and Apollo 12 in November of 1969.
_ _
Compared with that deep dive into the past, and its seismic echoes? On this final day of the year, there's not very much that's good to remember about 2019.
Today the first large-scale wind turbine complex without SF-6 is being completed in the North Sea, to go online in 2020. SF-6 is the gas used to prevent flashovers in electric generating and switching facilities. It escapes. It is a powerful greenhouse gas. In that is the refuge for ignorant remarks from an artificially orange person claiming windmills cause cancer. Which is representative of much of 2019.
The most enduring thing 2019 leaves behind is an "IF."
Oh, that "if" will be THE "key" moment of 2019 -- and of our time -- IF the political, social, economic, and thought leaders will allow, in the words of the psalmist, "a little child to lead them." And thus allow all of us to share a future worth having on a broken planet that might still be salvaged and repaired. Of course we are talking about Swedish teenager and TIME Magazine "Person of the Year" GRETA THUNBERG. She is potential personified, for the hopes and dreams of her generation and beyond.
As we searched for some sign of hope for that to happen, we found it in the parting words of a fallen leader. Congressman ELIJAH CUMMINGS died in 2019. He loved Baltimore, whose people he represented, and he championed the city as a model of clean, green redevelopment and overcoming social and racial injustices. But let's go back to his transcendent moment, in his very first speech to Congress back in 1996.
There, newly-elected Congressman Cummings recited a 54-word poem. It stirred the soul, bringing rare heartfelt bipartisan cheering from the members of that Congress 23 years ago. It's even more relevant and powerful now. It's been around a while, written by Dr. Benjamin E. Mays, a pioneering civil rights leader who was the president of Morehouse College during the time that Martin Luther King Jr. received his formal education there. (Dr. King always cited Mays as one of his great influences, and Mays gave the eulogy at King's funeral after he was assassinated in 1968.)
Let Congressman Cummings' recitation call you. Let the poem speak to every human heart and mind, through each of us learning and reciting it. Here it is in full, with the comment appended that day by Rep. Cummings:
"I only have a minute.
Sixty seconds in it.
Forced upon me, I did not choose it,
But I know that I must use it.
Give account if I abuse it.
Suffer, if I lose it.
Only a tiny little minute,
But eternity is in it.
And so I join you as we move forward to uplift not only the nation, but the world."
You can watch Rep. Elijah Cummings deliver that poem in his first floor speech to Congress. It's just 46 seconds long.
It's at: pic.twitter.com/yFczcWq9su
Writer Bill Murphy Jr., who cited the poem in company with many others when the congressman died, said, "Of all the many stories I read... about Cummings, who was black, I was most moved by his account of being a young boy, and being attacked by a mob of white people in 1962, for the offense of swimming in a public swimming pool.
"The son of sharecroppers, Cummings attended college and law school, served in the state legislature, and eventually in Congress.
"Thirty years after the pool incident, he said a man apologized to him for having been part of the mob that attacked him at the pool.
"Cummings's response: 'Apology accepted.'
"He used his minute well," concludes Murphy.
May the future say the same of the rest of us. Frankly, it won't because it can't, based on 2019. But we can still change what lies ahead.
___
NEW YEAR'S MUSIC VID
This was an easy choice for today (and tomorrow). It comes from EMMA'S REVOLUTION, that wonderful festival-fave folk duo of Sandy O & Pat Humphries (who do such good work comforting the afflicted and afflicting the comfortable). Here, in "ANOTHER NEW YEAR," a song Pat wrote and recorded in 2012 for her solo CD, "Hands," we can all find peace in her beautiful vocal and plaintive yet hopeful longing. Learn more about them and keep up with their tour performances here.
___
On this day in 1812 (207 years ago), during the War of 1812, the three-masted, square-rigged sailing vessel USS Constitution captured the larger British warship HMS Java off the coast of Brazil after a three-hour battle. It was one of the first triumphs of "Yankee ingenuity," as the Constitution's radical hull construction functioned as a structural spring that repelled incoming cannonballs. The British navy of the time was considered invincible. Indeed, it was at its zenith as the world's most powerful fleet. But it could not defeat "Old Ironsides," the USS Constitution, which mounted only half as many guns as many of its foes. The American vessel with its secret innovative design went on to victory after victory, sinking or capturing British vessels in every encounter, and using its superior speed to escape any confrontation it could not win.
That now-obscure war would give the fledgling upstart United States of America its international treaty guarantees of permanent national sovereignty. It would also give the young nation a navy and a national anthem.
That last part deserves exploration. Francis Scott Key's poem, "The Defense of Ft. McHenry" -- written by Key when he was a peace envoy being held prisoner aboard a British warship -- was set to the melody of an English beer-drinking pub song, "To Anachreon in Heaven." It was impossible to sing sober. It pretty much still is. You know it as "The Star-Spangled Banner."
The remains of the flag in the song can be seen in the Smithsonian in Washington, DC. A full-sized replica is raised daily by tourist volunteers who are directed through the unfurlment and hoisting of the huge flag by the National Park Service at Ft. McHenry in Baltimore harbor. And the USS Constitution, in Boston harbor and crewed by active-duty US Navy sailors, continues as the world's oldest warship still afloat.
150 years ago today, the newly-completed first transcontinental railroad was getting its first test of winter operability, over the California High Sierra and the Great South Pass of the Rockies on Wyoming's Sherman Hill, after the driving of the Golden Spike seven months earlier, in May of 1869.
Seventy-five years ago today the Nazis last desperate offensive effort to prolong World War II, the Battle of the Bulge, was still being beaten back by the counterattacking American army in December, 1944.
Fifty years ago today, NASA was readying Apollo 13 for launch, having successfully completed the first human landings on another celestial body with Apollo 11 in July and Apollo 12 in November of 1969.
_ _
Compared with that deep dive into the past, and its seismic echoes? On this final day of the year, there's not very much that's good to remember about 2019.
The most enduring thing 2019 leaves behind is an "IF."
Oh, that "if" will be THE "key" moment of 2019 -- and of our time -- IF the political, social, economic, and thought leaders will allow, in the words of the psalmist, "a little child to lead them." And thus allow all of us to share a future worth having on a broken planet that might still be salvaged and repaired. Of course we are talking about Swedish teenager and TIME Magazine "Person of the Year" GRETA THUNBERG. She is potential personified, for the hopes and dreams of her generation and beyond.
As we searched for some sign of hope for that to happen, we found it in the parting words of a fallen leader. Congressman ELIJAH CUMMINGS died in 2019. He loved Baltimore, whose people he represented, and he championed the city as a model of clean, green redevelopment and overcoming social and racial injustices. But let's go back to his transcendent moment, in his very first speech to Congress back in 1996.
There, newly-elected Congressman Cummings recited a 54-word poem. It stirred the soul, bringing rare heartfelt bipartisan cheering from the members of that Congress 23 years ago. It's even more relevant and powerful now. It's been around a while, written by Dr. Benjamin E. Mays, a pioneering civil rights leader who was the president of Morehouse College during the time that Martin Luther King Jr. received his formal education there. (Dr. King always cited Mays as one of his great influences, and Mays gave the eulogy at King's funeral after he was assassinated in 1968.)
Let Congressman Cummings' recitation call you. Let the poem speak to every human heart and mind, through each of us learning and reciting it. Here it is in full, with the comment appended that day by Rep. Cummings:
"I only have a minute.
Sixty seconds in it.
Forced upon me, I did not choose it,
But I know that I must use it.
Give account if I abuse it.
Suffer, if I lose it.
Only a tiny little minute,
But eternity is in it.
And so I join you as we move forward to uplift not only the nation, but the world."
You can watch Rep. Elijah Cummings deliver that poem in his first floor speech to Congress. It's just 46 seconds long.
It's at: pic.twitter.com/yFczcWq9su
Writer Bill Murphy Jr., who cited the poem in company with many others when the congressman died, said, "Of all the many stories I read... about Cummings, who was black, I was most moved by his account of being a young boy, and being attacked by a mob of white people in 1962, for the offense of swimming in a public swimming pool.
"The son of sharecroppers, Cummings attended college and law school, served in the state legislature, and eventually in Congress.
"Thirty years after the pool incident, he said a man apologized to him for having been part of the mob that attacked him at the pool.
"Cummings's response: 'Apology accepted.'
"He used his minute well," concludes Murphy.
May the future say the same of the rest of us. Frankly, it won't because it can't, based on 2019. But we can still change what lies ahead.
___
NEW YEAR'S MUSIC VID
This was an easy choice for today (and tomorrow). It comes from EMMA'S REVOLUTION, that wonderful festival-fave folk duo of Sandy O & Pat Humphries (who do such good work comforting the afflicted and afflicting the comfortable). Here, in "ANOTHER NEW YEAR," a song Pat wrote and recorded in 2012 for her solo CD, "Hands," we can all find peace in her beautiful vocal and plaintive yet hopeful longing. Learn more about them and keep up with their tour performances here.
___
Today's Events...
Tue, Dec 31, on web radio:
6 am (Pacific) - "OPRY PRESENTS: BEST OF 2019" simulcast from the home station of the "GRAND OLD OPRY," 650 AM WSM in Nashville Tennessee
* Info and simulcast: www.wsmonline.com
* Repeats today at 8 pm.
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Tue, Dec 31:
2 pm-6 pm - PADDY'S PIG, a splendid trad Irish band, plays for the ARRIVAL OF 2020 IN THE UK, at the Black Watch Pub, 497 N Central Av, Upland CA 91786
* It's a fun, family-friendly -- but "it's in a bar" -- event for all of you folks who would rather count-down to the new year and new decade, at 4 pm instead of midnight. Or for everyone who enjoys doung it multiple times, thanks to different time zones.
* The band -- Missy, Mike, Damon, Jon and Gene -- will have their latest CD "All Downhill From Here" available. It and their 3 previous albums are all available for streaming at the usual places and you can download any of 'em at https://store.cdbaby.com/Artist/PaddysPig
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Tue, Dec 31:
3 pm-6 pm - THE WHOOLIGANS play an early NYE gig to welcome-in 2020 as it arrives IN IRELAND, playing Irish Trad and Christmas favorites at O'Malley's on Main Irish Pub, 140 Main St, Seal Beach, CA 90740; 562-430-0631; http://www.omalleyssealbeach.com/
* Info on the band: www.thewhooligans.com
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Tue, Dec 31:
3:30 pm-4:30 pm - BILL DEMPSEY, sea chanticler and folk musician, performs an early NYE set to welcome-in 2020 as it arrives IN IRELAND & the British Isles, at Carlsbad by the Sea, 2855 Carlsbad Bl, Carlsbad CA 92008
* More at: www.billdempseymusic.net
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Tue, Dec 31; FREE NYE:
7 pm-1 am - Annual "MARINA DEL REY NEW YEAR’S EVE FIREWORKS & GLOW PARTY" presented by the L.A. County Department of Beaches & Harbors at Burton Chace Park, 13650 Mindanao Way, Marina del Rey CA 90292
* Includes multiple fireworks:
☆ At 8:59 pm, do a 30-second countdown and view the Times Square ball drop in New York City, followed by a 10-minute fireworks display here.
☆ At 11:59 pm, do another 30-second countdown to celebrate New Year's Eve in Marina del Rey, followed by another ten-minute fireworks display.
* Watch the fireworks spectacle from Burton Chace Park, or across the water from Fisherman’s Village, or from any of the many waterfront restaurants in Marina del Rey. (Picturesque possibilities, people... romance...)
* PARKING: $8 at Lot #77 or Lot #4 on Mindanao Way, but these lots fill-up early; there is a free BEACH SHUTTLE; use the link for more options.
* PARK RULES: NO ALCOHOL, NO SMOKING, NO unpermitted vending/sales in the park (the restaurants offer alcohol).
* More at 424-526-7900, or use the link for info including a click-download flier: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/marina-del-rey-new-years-eve-fireworks-glow-party-tickets-79792458391
* FREE to attend in the park.
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Tue, Dec 31; FREE NYE:
8 pm-1 am - annual "GRAND PARK + THE MUSIC CENTER'S N.Y.E.L.A." features two stages of live music, sprawling up the hill above L.A. City Hall, through Grand Park and up onto the Music Center Plaza at 135 N Grand Av, downtown Los Angeles, CA 90012
* For the 7th year, this extravaganza will be the go-to central gathering place for many seeking a high-energy NYE party night in Los Angeles.
* It's also being billed as "the West Coast’s flagship New Year’s celebration."
* Free for all ages and expanded for the first time this year to include The Music Center Plaza.
* This unique civic event brings together Angelenos and visitors from around the globe for -- read carefully -- "L.A.’s biggest music and dance party." If you translated the word "dance" to mean exclusively "urban"/electronica/rap-hop," uhhhhh, uh-huh. That does still leave some latitude in the word "music," so you can find some non-corporate-label-soundalikery there. The lineup does feature cultural diversity. Just be aware of what you're getting into, before you go down there and get mashed into throngs with no easy escape.
* A laser light show -- including countdown graphics projected on City Hall -- is a major part of this, too.
* GO METRO: Metro will operate 24-hour, overnight service on Metro Rail, plus Orange and Silver Lines on New Year’s Eve with free fares from 9 pm 12/31/19 to 2 am 01/01/20.
* METRO tips: the Metro Red/Purple Line subway's Civic Center/Grand Park Station exits directly into Grand Park; but, Pershing Square Station and Union Station are also within walkable distance and will be much less crowded. Plan your trip with human help at 323-GO-METRO (323-466-3876) or robotically at www.metro.net
* SCHEDULES, performers and times; extensive official list of do's and don'ts; local eateries and watering holes; and more: https://nyela.grandparkla.org/
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Tue, Dec 31:
8 pm - NEW YEARS EVE w/ YACHTLEY CREW at Discovery Ventura, 1888 E Thompson Bl, Ventura CA 93001; https://www.discoveryventura.com/
* TIX, $35-$45, at: https://www.bigneon.com/tickets/celebrate-nye-with-yachtley-crew-at-discovery-ventura-ventura
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Tue, Dec 31, on web radio:
8 pm (Pacific) - "OPRY PRESENTS: BEST OF 2019" simulcast from the home station of the "GRAND OLD OPRY," 650 AM WSM in Nashville Tennessee
* Info and simulcast: www.wsmonline.com
* This is the final repeat.
___
Tue, Dec 31:
9 pm-12:15 am - "NEW YEAR'S EVE PARTY AT THE GRAND ANNEX" with music by ANDY & RENEE & HARD RAIN, performing an “Odyssey through Rock-n-Roll – The '50s to the Present,” at the Grand Annex, 434 W 6th St, San Pedro CA 90731; 310-833-4813; https://www.grandvision.org/
* Celebrate the New Year on the dance floor while the band delivers hits from across the decades.
* Ticket includes dancing, late-night pizza, party hats and noisemakers, and a champagne toast to welcome in 2020.
* Doors at 8 pm; concession bar opens with wine, beer and "Celebratory Specials."
* TIX, $40 General Admission, $50 Cabaret Table, ADA seating available, (other VIP tix options already sold-out); tix at: https://grandvision.secure.force.com/ticket/#sections_a0F4p000004T53pEAC
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Tue, Dec 31:
9 pm - LOS LOBOS plays the Canyon Montclair, 5060 E Montclair Plaza, Space #2020, Montclair CA 91764
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Tue, Dec 31:
9:30 pm-closing - DAVE WROBEL plays for NYE at O'Malley's on Main Irish Pub, 140 Main St, Seal Beach, CA 90740; 562-430-0631; http://www.omalleyssealbeach.com/
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Wed, January 1, 2020
Happy New Year
__________________________________
__________________________________
"We must be willing to let go of the life we have planned, so as to have the life that is waiting for us."
-- E.M. Forster, novelist (born Jan 1, 1879, died 1970).
___
President Abraham Lincoln famously issued the Emancipation Proclamation on January 1, 1863. "All persons," Lincoln wrote, "held as slaves within any State in rebellion shall be then, thenceforward, and forever free."
Though this proclamation limited its power and scope to states that were part of the seceded Confederacy, it represented an important step towards freedom and equality for African Americans during the bloody carnage at the height of the Civil War.
This clip from the film, "The Abolitionists," which aired on the PBS series, "The American Experience," shares more about the moment Lincoln announced freedom for some, but not all, of all the enslaved. Politics has always affected and effected, and sometimes wholly determined, the lives of people who are not part of the power elite. Welcome to 2020.
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2020 will be a crossroads for human societies, planetary ecosystems, and whether science and intellect -- or superstitution, innuendo and fear -- will prevail. We can all be sure that the coming year's realities will be enough to make all the breathless headlines seem second-tier, at best. An impeachment trial, possibly sabotaged. Rancorous primary elections. Corporacracy vs. Democracy for conyrol of everything, starting with public opinion. The certainty of shenanigans -- including in caucuses that determine party nominees -- by desperate partisan establishment types and their corporatist funders.
It is an absolute certainty that we will see shockingly unprecedented amounts poured into manufacturing public opinion, in arenas old and new. Especially in the still-new, already big-bucks, no-fact-checks marketplace of spyware-laden, predictive-analytics-exploitation, clandestine-cash-extraction-machine of social media; and of course in all the old places where persuasive lies profitably prevail to buy election outcomes. And that stuff will continue all year, through the general election in November.
There are things awaiting us that are as necessary as a root canal, things we must get past to reach what really matters. Things like overcoming all money cleverly spent on Climate Change denial by oligarchs employing psychological warfare masters, as the world burns.
Planetary desertification is expanding. Ocean fisheries are shrinking. Wildly destructive weather events are becoming more normal. Waves of climate refugee migrants will continue overwhelming national borders and global relief agencies. Racism, misogyny, sexism, age discrimination, health care access, prescription drug costs, gasoline prices, new car costs, jobs that offer benefits, and voter obstruction, are all trending in alarming directions.
Social media will keep "trending" us beneath avalanches of anesthetizing bs, and purport to rescue us with distraction mechanisms of lie-driven outrage. Skyrocketing housing costs will keep increasing homelessness among us as the number of landlords gets smaller and grows richer. More college grads who can't use their education to benefit society will be disillusioned because crushing student debt means, instead, they must do what compensates well enough to pay-off those debts by the time they're 40.
And sadly, all these things are guaranteed to happen whether or not the Wall Street bankster/ manipulators -- together with exploitive rulers of desperate nations -- keep finding ways to increase their bloated fortunes. All, while Rome, and everyplace else, burns.
"Happy New Year"-? Only if we roll up our sleeves and fight to make it one.
___
Quick note on how history lives to bite the people of the present...
On this day in 2002, the Euro became the new common currency of twelve nations. With it, the seeds of Brexit were planted, as Frankfurt banksters got the upper hand, displacing centuries of dominance by London banksters.
Today's Events...
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On this day in 2002, the Euro became the new common currency of twelve nations. With it, the seeds of Brexit were planted, as Frankfurt banksters got the upper hand, displacing centuries of dominance by London banksters.
___
NEW YEAR'S MUSIC VID
This was an easy choice for today (in fact, we repeat it from yesterday). It comes from EMMA'S REVOLUTION, that wonderful festival-fave folk duo of Sandy O & Pat Humphries (who do such good work comforting the afflicted and afflicting the comfortable). Here, in "ANOTHER NEW YEAR," a song Pat wrote and recorded in 2012 for her solo CD, "Hands," we can all find peace in her beautiful vocal and plaintive yet hopeful longing. Learn more about them and keep up with their tour performances here.
___
NEW YEAR'S MUSIC VID
This was an easy choice for today (in fact, we repeat it from yesterday). It comes from EMMA'S REVOLUTION, that wonderful festival-fave folk duo of Sandy O & Pat Humphries (who do such good work comforting the afflicted and afflicting the comfortable). Here, in "ANOTHER NEW YEAR," a song Pat wrote and recorded in 2012 for her solo CD, "Hands," we can all find peace in her beautiful vocal and plaintive yet hopeful longing. Learn more about them and keep up with their tour performances here.
___
Today's Events...
Wed, Jan 1:
8 am - "TOURNAMENT OF ROSES PARADE" through downtown Pasadena CA is "the granddaddy of them all," and in addition to the massive, mechanically-animated floral-covered floats, there are many marching music units and colorful equestrian entries in historical attire or traditional Native American regalia. Sadly, most TV networks cut to commercials when the bands pass by so they can preserve the air time for corporate-sponsored floats. In the Los Angeles TV market, KTLA Channel 5 is "commercial free," but screen graphics and talking-head hosts may still ruin proper enjoyment of musical entries. As for big network coverage? Expect disappointment.
* Or you could just go, and experience it for real.
* NATIONWIDE, you may want to try the coverage on RFD-TV. They pledge to cover marching bands and give details on every equestrian entry.
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Wed, Jan 1:
9 am - "AMERICA'S STATE PARKS’ FIRST DAY HIKES" initiative in all 50 states across America invites you to start the New Year by experiencing nature near you.
* In Southern California, splendid offerings are at SADDLEBACK BUTTE and at RED ROCK CANYON STATE PARKS in the Mojave Desert, north of the Los Angeles basin. PLUS, we've added another event at an L.A. County wildlands park.
* Rejuvenate by taking a family-friendly trek through a state park close to home, and avoiding all the alcohol and sedentary tv bowl games.
* At SADDLEBACK BUTTE STATE PARK, staff and volunteers will lead three hikes which vary from an easy half-mile stroll to a strenuous five-mile hike up the butte. Check-in for all hikes is at the park Visitor Center, 17102 E Ave J, waaay East of Lancaster CA (at the corner of 170th St E and E Ave J, near Lake Los Angeles). Bring a lunch to enjoy in the park’s Picnic Area after returning from the hikes. Kids welcome, no dogs allowed on trails in California State Parks (with the exception of trained service animals/no comfort animals). Those whose devices are infested with Facebook spyware can see more at www.Facebook.com/SaddlebackButte
* At RED ROCK CANYON STATE PARK, a 9-mile, all-day hike will be led at through the dramatic landscape tableau at 9 am. The park is 22 miles north of Mojave on Highway 14. Meet at the dirt lot on the east side of Hwy 14, ¾ mile north of Abbot Rd. You'll hike into Nightmare Gulch with a side trip into the well-hidden “Secret Silent City.” The strenuous route begins with a scramble over three ridges to enjoy the fabulous views, with an elevation gain/loss of approximately 3000’. This hike is not for beginners, and no dogs are allowed on this guided hike; no exceptions. Wear layered clothing and bring plenty of water and snacks/lunch; hikers are responsible for their own health and safety. Participants will be back by approximately 4 pm; only heavy rain will cancel this hike. Those whose devices are infested with Facebook spyware can see more at www.Facebook.com/RedRockCanyonStatePark
* At 11 am at VASQUEZ ROCKS NATURAL AREA & NATURE CENTER, 10700 W Escondido Canyon Rd, Santa Clarita CA 91390 (off the 14 Fwy, well north of Santa Clarita), a 4+ mi hike hosted by "Trailmothers and Trek Kids" is a "Leave-No-Trace" hike, learning experience, and trail cleanup. It departs from the Nature Center; questions or concerns, email trailmothers@gmail.com or text 818-271-1677
* At 11 am at VASQUEZ ROCKS NATURAL AREA & NATURE CENTER, 10700 W Escondido Canyon Rd, Santa Clarita CA 91390 (off the 14 Fwy, well north of Santa Clarita), a 4+ mi hike hosted by "Trailmothers and Trek Kids" is a "Leave-No-Trace" hike, learning experience, and trail cleanup. It departs from the Nature Center; questions or concerns, email trailmothers@gmail.com or text 818-271-1677
* MORE, ELSEWHERE: Nationwide info on all the "First Day Hikes" offered, their difficulty and length and more, and tips for winter hiking, can be found at www.StateParks.org
* TIX, FEES: typically these events require only the basic "day admission" visitor fee. Inquire at the link for specific hikes near you.
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Wed, Jan 1:
2 pm-6 pm - 9th annual "NEW YEARS DAY PARTY POT LUCK & JAM SESSION" at American Legion Post 311, 44355 40th St E, Lancaster CA 93535
* We found a NEW YEAR'S JAM SESSION and it comes with a "Yeeee haw!" and invitation to all.
* It's hosted by "Moldy Marvin," who says, "Musicians: Bring your God given talent and your instruments and we‘ll rock the house! Bass Amp, Drums and Sound System Will be Provided. For the rest of my Friends & Neighbors, come on out and share the love, we’ll kick out the old, bring in the new and do this thing up right on this festive day!"
* Those whose devices are infested with Facebook spyware can find more at: www.facebook.com/events/2254576718172810/
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Wed, Jan 1:
2 pm-6 pm - 9th annual "NEW YEARS DAY PARTY POT LUCK & JAM SESSION" at American Legion Post 311, 44355 40th St E, Lancaster CA 93535
* We found a NEW YEAR'S JAM SESSION and it comes with a "Yeeee haw!" and invitation to all.
* It's hosted by "Moldy Marvin," who says, "Musicians: Bring your God given talent and your instruments and we‘ll rock the house! Bass Amp, Drums and Sound System Will be Provided. For the rest of my Friends & Neighbors, come on out and share the love, we’ll kick out the old, bring in the new and do this thing up right on this festive day!"
* Those whose devices are infested with Facebook spyware can find more at: www.facebook.com/events/2254576718172810/
___
Wed, Jan 1, on TV:
3 pm-5 pm (Pacific) - "EQUESTFEST" presents all the equestrian entrants from the 2020 ROSE PARADE in a rodeo-style exhibition that lets them do more than is possible when they ride on the streets of Pasadena.
* Also features a song-and-dance routine by the Charlie Brown and Snoopy troupe from Knott's Berry Farm in Buena Park CA.
* Recorded Sun, Dec 29, 2019 at the Los Angeles Equestrian Center.
* On the Cowboy Channel, cable/satellite/web.* Also features a song-and-dance routine by the Charlie Brown and Snoopy troupe from Knott's Berry Farm in Buena Park CA.
* Recorded Sun, Dec 29, 2019 at the Los Angeles Equestrian Center.
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Wed, Jan 1, on TV:
6 pm-7:55 pm (Pacific) - "LINDA RONSTADT: THE SOUND OF MY VOICE" is a new music-filled biopic premiering on CNN today. She just received her Kennedy Center honor in December in an all-star tribute, and THAT, a much-deserved recognition, has helped reignite the magic.
* Great reviews, many music luminaries taking part, from Dolly Parton and Emmylou Harris to Jackson Browne.
* Great reviews, many music luminaries taking part, from Dolly Parton and Emmylou Harris to Jackson Browne.
* Didja know she started as a folkie, had mega-hit records across multiple genres, and helped create Americana music?
* Didja know her backup band became the EAGLES?
* We missed the media preview screening. Those who were there are raving over this film.
* Plan your NYE recovery time -- we will escape the relentless bowl gamery and watch this. (If you come up with a watching party at a friendly watering-hole, let us know -- we'll join you!)
* LATE ADDITION: It repeats tonight at 9 pm Pacific, and repeats twice Saturday night, same times.
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Thursday
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THOUGHT FOR TODAY from one born on this date...
"Never let your sense of morals get in the way of doing what's right."
-- Isaac Asimov, scientist and writer (born Jan 2, 1920, died 1992).
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For events we've reported for Thursday and beyond, go to
_____________________
Thursday
_____________________
THOUGHT FOR TODAY from one born on this date...
"Never let your sense of morals get in the way of doing what's right."
-- Isaac Asimov, scientist and writer (born Jan 2, 1920, died 1992).
___
For events we've reported for Thursday and beyond, go to
The Guide's compilations of recommended arts events beyond January 1st -- both those ongoing into the New Year and those coming on specific dates -- are in our final wrap-up of events, published December 21st and updated almost continuously since then.
MANY CHANGES COMING IN 2020.
WE'LL ANNOUNCE OURS, RIGHT HERE,
IN A DAY OR TWO.
WE'LL ANNOUNCE OURS, RIGHT HERE,
IN A DAY OR TWO.
_________________________________________________
As always, we have lots of MUSIC NEWS features
in the works, and they'll be along as we get them
dressed, shoes tied, cowlicks combed down,
bowties cranked straight, and strings tuned.
in the works, and they'll be along as we get them
dressed, shoes tied, cowlicks combed down,
bowties cranked straight, and strings tuned.
_________________________________________________
'Til we catch ya on the flip side
of a new decade...
of a new decade...
as Buford the Wonder Dog looks on
and in our best Kathy Baker
"Hee Haw" voice: "THAT's all!"
"Hee Haw" voice: "THAT's all!"
Stay tuneful!
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On to the necessary boilerplate...
Boilerplate? What "boilerplate"? Where's the main pressure gauge? And the firebox?
Who came up with that goofy term for the basic essential informational stuff...
Alright already, it's right down there...
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LEGALESE, CONTACTING US, 'N SUCH...
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Direct to the Guide's current editions /
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Or at
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CONTACT US -- Post Comments / Send Questions / say Howdy at:
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♪ The ACOUSTIC AMERICANA MUSIC GUIDE endeavors to bring you NEWS – and views of interest to artists everywhere – more specifically to musicians and the creative community and music makers -- and fans of acoustic and Folk-Americana music. That includes both traditional and innovative forms. From the deepest roots to today’s acoustic renaissance, that’s our beat. We provide a wealth of resources, including a HUGE catalog of acoustic-friendly venues (now undergoing a major update), and inside info on FESTIVALS and select performances in Southern California in venues from the monumentally large to the intimately small and cozy. We cover workshops, conferences, and other events for artists and folks in the music industry, and all kinds o’ things in the world of acoustic and Americana and accessible classical music. From washtub bass to musical spoons to oboe to viola to banjo to squeezebox, from Djangostyle to new-fangled-old-time string band music, from sweet Cajun fiddle to bluegrass and pre-bluegrass Appalachian mountain music to all the swamp water roots of the blues and the bright lights of where the music is headed now.
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The Acoustic Americana Music Guide. Thanks for sittin' a spell. The cyber porch'll be here anytime you come back from the road.
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We'll be back again soon with music news and more "News of the Non-Trumpcentric Universe." (c)
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