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LATE ADDITION added right up-top... Dec 31st, 3:35 pm PST...
STUCK HOME, OR IN A HOTEL, OR IN AN EXPEDITION TENT? We've gotcha covered!
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Now, here's our full edition before the above late update...
UPDATED NEW YEAR'S EVE, DEC. 31st, 6:55 am.
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Here ya go. It's the Guide's "Guide to New Year's Tunefulness & Assorted Adventures!" Things hereabouts have multiplied in scope, content, detail, and opportunities for everything from fun to tuneful immersion to things you'll remember the rest of your life. Sure, that's a mighty hefty claim. But we're here to prove it, having finally assembled, confirmed, organized, and now, published, all the additions to this edition.
Here are our best recommendations for stuff to do that you won't find in the big commercial sources.
That includes alternatives you won't elsewhere -- and this go 'round, that includes the best obscure ways to ring-in the New Year without the drunks, crowds, stupid hooting, or bowl game mania with teams you don't know a damn thing about, anyway.
Herein are sections for:
☆ 1) NEW YEAR'S EVE EVENTS
☆ 2) Laughing-in 2019 (without the insipid Ball-Dropping)
☆ 3) Escape Urbanity with a "First Day Hike"
We also tell you about a Jan. 4th Annual Outdoor Event
☆ 4) Americana Music Round Up, Year-End Edition
The best albums, singles, videos, collaborations, and news you might have missed.
Let's jump in!
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# 1 news feature...
NEW YEAR'S EVE PARTIES
WELCOMING 2019 STARTS MONDAY AFTERNOON AT 4 PM -- THAT'S MIDNIGHT IN IRELAND
Aye, 'tis true! CELEBRATIONS of the arrival of the NEW YEAR in IRELAND begin well before 4 pm at local pubs for all who are Irish at heart. Was there ever a better reason not to wait for St. Patrick's Day? What with all the IRISH MUSIC, Slainte!
IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA, here are the places to be:
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ED BELL AND THE WHOOLIGANS host an Irish New Year Celebration at O'Malley's On Main, 140 Main St, Seal Beach, CA 90740; 562-430-0631; www.omalleysonmain.com; more on the band at: www.thewhooligans.com
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"New Year's Afternoon at Muldoon's Pub" starts at 3 pm, celebrating on Dublin Time at "the Irish Heart of Newport Beach" with music by The Fenians' TERRY CASEY. Then, their NEW YEAR's EVE PARTY runs 9 pm to 1 am (California time), with THE SARCASTICS performing. All FREE!! NO COVER CHARGE, no prix fix menus. There's dancing, too. Muldoon's Irish Pub, 202 Newport Center Dr, Newport Beach, CA; 949-640-4110; www.muldoonspub.com
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At 4 pm here, midnight in England, celebrate the New Year British Style with libations, food and a bagpiper, no cover, family-friendly at the world famous Santa Monica landmark, the King's Head British Pub & Restaurant, 116 Santa Monica Bl, Santa Monica, CA; 310-451-1402; www.yeoldekingshead.com; this one is a fine dinner option; only bad news here is the evening has a dj, not a live band.
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Want THE BLUES? There are a few tickets left for the excellent NYE party at the Arcadia Blues Club, with guitar legend JAMES INTVELD and rockabilly queen ROSIE FLORES & THE HOT ROD TRIO. It's a "Country Swing Blues Dancing Farewell to 2018," and their NYE events are wonderful. Arcadia Blues Club, 16 E Huntington Dr, Arcadia, CA 91006; 626-447-9349; dinner package available and recommended; tickets available for this and all their concerts at: http://arcadiabluesclub.eventbrite.com
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Now, you could opt for the crowded and costly hoopla. There are things like the $260-$2,500 event at Union Station in downtown L.A. But seriously, now. It's billed as "The End of Prohibition," but with sucky disco instead of the 1930s big band jazz its title suggests.
Wherever you go, whatever you do, be mindful. Certainly no need to lecture you about not getting on the road after you've been drinking -- but we will remind you that less responsible types are out there, crashing and smashing their way across the landscape. So be watchful and mindful of others. And thanks to all in Public Safety professions who routinely give-up their chances to celebtrate, trying to keep others alive.
Oh, by the way: keep in mind that pets are traumatized by fireworks booming and flashing (not to mention the fire risks their reckless disregard brings), so take appropriate precautions with th' critters because of the pyrotechnic addicts.
That said...
HAPPY NEW YEAR!
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# 2 news feature...
CAN'T TAKE THE INSIPID TV BALL-DROPPING, BUT YOU REALLY NEED TO LAUGH-IN 2019? WELL, HERE YA GO...
"Redacted Tonight" went to Miami and filmed a new stand-up comedy special episode -- they reliably deliver the best sociopolitical comedy in these hopelessly tribal "Untied" States of America. They skewer, take no prisoners, let you know what corporate cable's sacred cows are really up to, and in finding the sheer absurdity in it, they'll have you laughing at the excruciating things you already knew and at what you just learned.
Every week, they do a show from their home base in Washington, D.C., "the belly of the beast." But now you can catch their road trip edition, FREE online. It's the whole cast -- Naomi, John, Natalie, and host Lee Camp. They all went down to Miami to film a special holiday episode packed full of stand-up comedy. If you need a half-hour of their FREE entertainment as much as we do,
CAN'T TAKE THE INSIPID TV BALL-DROPPING, BUT YOU REALLY NEED TO LAUGH-IN 2019? WELL, HERE YA GO...
"Redacted Tonight" went to Miami and filmed a new stand-up comedy special episode -- they reliably deliver the best sociopolitical comedy in these hopelessly tribal "Untied" States of America. They skewer, take no prisoners, let you know what corporate cable's sacred cows are really up to, and in finding the sheer absurdity in it, they'll have you laughing at the excruciating things you already knew and at what you just learned.
Every week, they do a show from their home base in Washington, D.C., "the belly of the beast." But now you can catch their road trip edition, FREE online. It's the whole cast -- Naomi, John, Natalie, and host Lee Camp. They all went down to Miami to film a special holiday episode packed full of stand-up comedy. If you need a half-hour of their FREE entertainment as much as we do,
If you like it, they invite you to share it, also FREE.
THERE'S MORE... if you liked the "Redacted Tonight" stand-up special, then...
It's a safe bet that you would LOVE "Redacted" guru Lee Camp's full hour-long stand-up comedy special taped live in Los Angeles.
THERE'S MORE... if you liked the "Redacted Tonight" stand-up special, then...
It's a safe bet that you would LOVE "Redacted" guru Lee Camp's full hour-long stand-up comedy special taped live in Los Angeles.
Click here to watch a free clip.
You can buy the full hour -- shockingly cheap --- and give it to your friends as a gift that's better than the combination knife-sharpener / sock stretcher you already got them. You can send Lee Camp's brilliantly hilarious commentary on our times to anyone you want.
Just click here.
You can buy the full hour -- shockingly cheap --- and give it to your friends as a gift that's better than the combination knife-sharpener / sock stretcher you already got them. You can send Lee Camp's brilliantly hilarious commentary on our times to anyone you want.
Just click here.
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# 3 news feature...
"Escaping Urbanity" department...
NEW YEAR'S OUTDOOR ADVENTURES THAT ESCAPE THE NOISE & TRAFFIC
Despite the Federal government shut-down over the stupid wall, your California State are there for you with a fine and fun assortment of structured and guided New Year's Day activities.
It's part of the nationwide "First Day Hikes" movement, established to offer everyone a way to kick-off the New Year by getting in touch with the natural world. You'll find something offered purt near everywhere, except this year in the National Parks, National Forests, National Monuments, and BLM public lands, due to the failure of Congress to do its job months ago and pass a Federal Budget, compounded by the intransigence of a Commander-in-Tweet and his penchant for Trumpertantrums.
As for the "First Day Hikes" that ARE open and offering guided experiences, their difficulty and length, and tips regarding proper clothing -- all can be found at www.naspd.org.
The experiences range from a simple lark to real workouts. America's State Parks are committed to promoting outdoor recreation in state parks as a way to address obesity, especially among children.
Getting kids outside and unplugged from video games and other electronic media creates a unique connection with nature that promotes physical and mental well-being and encourages creativity and stewardship of our shared resources.
Here are some Guide-recommended organized events in the great outdoors!
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Celebrate the New Year with “First Day Hikes”
at Saddleback Butte and Red Rock Canyon State Parks
Rejuvenate by taking a family-friendly trek
through a state park close to home
Make a New Year’s resolution to your health and happiness by kicking off 2019 with an invigorating "First Day Hike" at either Saddleback Butte State Park or Red Rock Canyon State Park, as part of America's State Parks First Day Hikes initiative in all 50 states. America’s State Parks First Day Hikes offer individuals and families an opportunity to begin the New Year rejuvenating and connecting with the outdoors by taking a healthy hike on January 1st at a state park. First Day Hikes offer a great way to get outside, exercise, enjoy nature and welcome the New Year with friends and family.
“America’s state parks are stunning year-round, but there’s nothing quite like a First Day Hike to really take in the great outdoors and kick off the New Year in a healthy way” said National Association of State Park Directors President Linda Lanterman. “Grab your family and friends, lace up those boots and seek out a new adventure at a state park. Friendly staff and spectacular views will be waiting for you!”
Option 1:
DESERT ADVENTURE, CLOSE TO L.A., SUITABLE FOR THOSE WITH LITTLE KIDS IN TOW
At Saddleback Butte State Park, staff and volunteers will lead the hikes which vary from an easy half mile to a strenuous five mile hike up the butte.
Check in for all hikes at the park Visitor Center, 17102 East Avenue J, 15 miles east of Lancaster, CA (corner of 170th St E and East Avenue J, north of Lake Los Angeles).
Kids are welcome, but dogs are not allowed on trails in California State Parks.
Bring a lunch to enjoy in the park’s Picnic Area after returning from the hikes! There is no food concessionaire at this park.
Fundraising activities will also be offered to benefit the "Support Saddleback Committee" (cash or checks only). Those whose devices are infested with Facebook's intrusive spyware can find more at www.Facebook.com/SaddlebackButte
That's where the park posts more information and updates.
NEW YEAR'S DAY AT SADDLEBACK BUTTE STATE PARK -- options
· 9 a.m. – Hike to top of Saddleback Butte
Moderately strenuous. Five miles and about three hours roundtrip; 1000 ft of elevation gain to an incredible view across the Mojave Desert. Bring water and wear good hiking shoes and layered clothing; it can be very windy at the top.
· 10 a.m. - Hike across the park
Easy to moderate. 4.3 miles with little elevation gain; about 1 ¾ hours. Dress for the weather; bring water and hat, walking sticks are optional. Enjoy the beautiful high desert views over the Antelope Valley; this is a great winter’s hike.
· 11 a.m. - Dowen Nature Trail
Easy. Ranger-lead interpretive tour along the nature trail. Learn about the unique natural and cultural history of the local area. 1/2 mile loop with mild elevation gain, about 1 hour; wheelchair/stroller accessible.
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Option 2:
NEW YEAR'S DAY AT RED ROCK CANYON STATE PARK -- options
Wanna get serious? THIS is the one you're looking for!
This park is an hour farther north, and it is genuinely spectacular. By comparison, the other park, Saddleback Butte, is mundane desert scenery. Red Rock Canyon is bigtime wowsa, where countless movies have been filmed, and it's doubled as everything from Butch Cassidy's "Hole in the Wall" to the surface of Mars.
A 9-mile, all-day hike will be led at Red Rock Canyon State Park, 22 miles north of Mojave on Highway 14:
· Meet at 9:00 a.m. at the dirt lot on the east side of Hwy 14,
¾ mile north of Abbot Road for a hike into Nightmare Gulch with a side trip into the well-hidden “Secret Silent City”.
¾ mile north of Abbot Road for a 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 dogs are not 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.
Those whose devices are infested with Facebook's intrusive spyware can find more at
That, unfortunately, is where the park posts more information and updates.
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Not that these two State Parks are the only places to go.
All the "First Day Hikes" at the parks that ARE open and offering guided experiences, with notes on the difficulty and length of the guided and other New Year's Day day hikes, and tips regarding proper clothing at each locale -- all can be found at www.naspd.org.
“America’s State Parks invite the young and old alike to discover the serenity and natural beauty through exploring the beautiful public lands in every state,” the National Association of State Park Directors Executive Director Lewis Ledford said. He added, “Hiking is a great way to improve your physical and mental health while enjoying the outdoors.”
Bragging Rights
Participants are encouraged to share their adventures on social media with #FirstDayHikes.
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LIKE THE IDEA, BUT ALREADY TIED-UP ON NEW YEAR'S DAY?
We've gotcha covered!
Join Audubon Christmas Bird Count
at Red Rock Canyon State Park
Come to Red Rock Canyon State Park on Friday, January 4th to help look for birds as part of the Audubon Society’s 119th "Christmas Bird Count!"
The annual count is the longest running Citizen Science survey in the world. Since the first count in 1900, the Christmas Bird Count has provided critical data on bird population and climate change migration and wintering trends.
This event's history has obscure and not-at-all bird-friendly roots.
Chief Ranger Jean Rhyne explains:
"Prior to the turn of the century, people engaged in a holiday tradition known as the Christmas 'Side Hunt;' they would choose sides and go afield with their gun, and whoever brought in the biggest pile of feathered (and furred) quarry won. Around the turn of the 20th century, observers and scientists were just beginning to become concerned about declining bird populations so ornithologist Frank Chapman, an early officer in the then budding Audubon Society, proposed a new holiday tradition- a 'Christmas Bird Census' -- that would count birds in the holidays rather than hunt them."
Like much of being a good planetary citizen, this event offers a meaningful way to give back and undo a bit of past wrongs.
Beginner to expert birders are all welcome; please pre-register for Jan. 4th by emailing Jean.Rhyne@parks.ca.gov.
Bring bird books if you have them, layered clothing, binoculars, shoes that can get muddy, water and snacks. 4-wheel drive vehicles are appreciated for carpooling to remote sites, and there will also be nearby count areas accessible to anyone who isn't up for serious trekking.
All participants meet at the Red Rock Canyon State Park Visitor Center on Abbot Rd -- look for the sign and turn off Hwy 14 in the midst of the spectacular canyon walled drive. Be there on Friday, January 4th at 8 a.m. for registration and orientation; count areas will be determined at check-in.
“Early birds” can also meet at 7 a.m. for birding at Red Rooster (email at address below, to RSVP for that one).
Winter campgrounds are available in the park for those wishing to avoid the early-morning drive.
For all the "big picture" information about the Audubon Christmas Bird Count happening here there and everywhere, check out www.ChristmasBirdCount.org.
When: Friday, January 4, 8 a.m.
Where: Meet at Red Rock Canyon State Park visitor center, end of Abbot Road off Hwy 14, north of Mojave near the former town of Cantil.
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# 4 news feature...
Americana Music Round-Up, Year-End Edition
The Americana Music Association is sharing the special year-end edition of their newsletter, "This Week in Americana." It presents their reader's most-liked albums, songs, videos and news, based on their interactions with readers.
We're sure you'll find it interesting and fun, and a good way to start the year by discovering some acclaimed 2018 music and artists you might have missed.
We're sure you'll find it interesting and fun, and a good way to start the year by discovering some acclaimed 2018 music and artists you might have missed.
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ALBUMS...
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SINGLES...
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1. John Prine feat. Brandi Carlile & Sturgill Simpson "Summer's End" (Live on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert)
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2. Amanda Shires "Eve's Daughter"
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3. Brandi Carlile "The Joke" (Live on Jimmy Kimmel)
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6. David Rawlings"Cumberland Gap"
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2. Did you know that The Band's iconic debut Music from Big Pink turned 50 in 2018? Members of the pioneering group and others who were involved in the album's production offered insight on how this simple New York ranch house served as more than just a recording space for those historic sessions. Read more
3. Americana has never looked this good: Brent Cobb, Lyle Lovett, Jason Isbell and Amanda Shires (along with their little one Mercy), Margo Price, John Prine, Marty Stuart and more got dressed up by GQ to showcase each of their unique styles and legacies through designer threads. Read more
4. In case you missed it: The 19th annual AMERICANAFEST® took place in Nashville, TN, with more than 250 showcasing acts and hundreds of special events and performances in over 60 venues throughout Music City. Rolling Stone highlighted 30 unforgettable moments - check out a recap here.
5. "The more peculiar restraints you put upon a song, the more fun it is, so this was kind of a dream assignment." - Gillian Welch and David Rawlings gushed about turning the Coen brothers' anthology film The Ballad of Buster Scruggs into a laugh-out-loud musical comedy - with some yodeling sprinkled in for good measure. Read more
6. In case you missed it: highlights of speakers and panels have been announced for this year's conference at AMERICANAFEST®, including a k.d. lang keynote interview, conversations with Brandi Carlile, Mary Gauthier, Emmylou Harris and Margo Price, as well as a sneak peek at an upcoming Ken Burns documentary. Read more
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MUCH more is coming your way in 2019, right here in the Guide!
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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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LEGALESE, CONTACTING US, 'N SUCH...
Boilerplate? Where's the main pressure gauge? And the firebox?
What "boilerplate"? Who came up with that goofy term for the basic essential informational stuff...
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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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