Things that makes me happy... Club Harlem

Things that makes me happy... Club Harlem @ the Apollo Theater


Club Harlem is a variety show type performance set at the Apollo theater directed by Maurice Hines, older brother of the late Gregory Hines. The show recreates the atmosphere of 1930s and 40s Harlem with nightclub styled seating on the lower level of the theater (yes they removed the normal chairs) an servers bring food and drink to the tables.  The audience dressed up in the attire of the day while being entertained by a 16 piece Jazz orchestra led musical director David Berger and the conductor Daryl Waters,

The show feature jazz singers, dancers and the was led by the multi-talented Maurice Hines. At over 70 years of age, Hines still command the stage with his comedy, singing, and yes dancing. Just like his contemporary, Sammie Davis Jr., this triple threat performance was well worth the money.

Maurice Hines

Dee Dee Bridgewater

Pros
1. A fun night out experiencing what life was like in 1930s Harlem
2. Great performers including singing, dance, and comedy
3. Maurice Hines at 70+ is an inspiration... and still can entertain an audience

Cons.
1. Apollo wasn't meant for service so the drinks and food was a bit slow
2. The show was a limited run at the Apollo but they may feature at a theater near you in the future.



S.F. Guru

Things that make me happy... Jamaica Jazz & Blues Festival

Things that make me happy... Jamaica Jazz & Blues Festival

Jamaica Jazz & Blues Festival is an annual three day  (January 24-27 this year) music festival in Montego Bay featuring R&B, Jazz and Blues artists. This year's the headliners were John Legend, Mary J. Blige, Dionne Warwick, and Michael Bolton.

Its a great winter long weekend getaway trip for people looking to escape the cold and take on some chill music and island sun.  If you have the time its a great time to take a week away if you can, but the shows start on Thursday night with Reggae night followed by Friday and Saturday Jazz, R&B and Blues. The concert venue is is Trewlany about 20 minutes of highway driving outside of Montego Bay. There are villa rentals available along with plenty of hotel and resort options. The Riu, Halfmoon, and Secrets were top sponsors and host hotels this year but the range of quality hotels in every price range are available.

Lodging Recommend - Coyaba Beach Resort (great value), Secrets (new resort), Ritz Carlton/Iberostar (luxury properties)
Good Eats - Local Scotchies (Montego Bay), Jack Sprat (Treasure Beach)

John Legend

Romaine Virgo

Dionne Warwick

 Monica

Mary J Blige

Thursday - Reggae Night

Friday Night - Mary J Blige and Michael Bolton

Saturday Night - John Legend Dionne Warwick

More John Legend

Pros
1. Beautiful winter getaway - Who doesn't like beach, cheap rum, and music
2. Scotchies - If you like jerk (spicy) this is the place to go just ask anyone for location (near Holiday Inn resort).
3. Red Stripe... Almost cheaper than water. Can't beat that.

Cons
1. Driving in Jamaica is risky... and cabs can be expensive but you can always ride in groups to event.
2. Tanlines - Hard to use than sick excuse at work with bikini and tan lines. Sunblock a must.



S.F. Guru

Things that make me happy... Horsin' Around Stamford exhibit

Things that make me happy... Horsin' Around Stamford exhibit

One of the best ideas I've seen cities do to add culture to the downtown areas are public exhibits in the streets. Stamford CT has done this for many years and is a fixture during the summer season. This year's exhibit is called "Horsin' Around." There are 40 painted horse sculpture exhibits by 29 artist all around downtown stamford. Its great for walking around town to view the different artworks and grab a lunch or some ice cream somewhere.

Link to map and exhibit description...
http://www.stamford-downtown.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=124

Every city should have a Hospitality Horse - Welcome to Stamford

Not every horse can be a Trailblazer

 Don't be a One Trick Pony...

Poseidon Creation proves that some horses can swim

This Sea Glass Horse is watching traffic

One lap around the Winner's Circle for this horse.

 Don't get stung by Horse and Buggies... A young art student.

One of the prettiest horses Fire meets water and night merged with day... Entwined

Who has this horse Chasing Windmills?

I don't get this one... Good luck with Horse Fleye

Don't get caught by the cops with The Skate Horse

 Rockin' Horse at Alive at Five.

 The Shimmering Stallion shines in daylight.

It don't know much about growing this Foal of Flora

 Salute to the city's own Freedom Horse...

There is nothing better than a Midsummer Neigh's Dream

No better view than Soaring over Stamford...

Downtown has a new leader Equus Ceasar

Who left this Maremaid in this fountain?

Solar Power Horse (Day and Night)

Midnight showing off in midday

Our country tis of thee... Nothing better than an American Beauty... Sweet Land of Liberty

Who doesn't love a Crazy Horse..

Every beautiful bridesmaid needs a Groom's Mare at their side

Horsepower... Clever

Even horse have their own Diva Gait

Things of fairy tales... My Knight in Shining Armor

 One of my favorites... Book Ends. In front of Ferguson Library.

Not the most efficient way to be a Globe Trotter... Planes are better.

Every nerd childhood dream to own The Ion Horse (correct spelling)

Come play some Horseshoes with me...

Before you leave check out the Mane Attraction... downtown Stamford at its finest.

Great idea for an fun game of art bingo. Print our list of names and see if you friends can figure out which horse they find. Give a 1 hour time limit and see who finds and guest the most. Winner gets free drinks from the loser... And you get some exercise in the process... about 1.5 mile walk to find all horses.

So who said getting a little culture, viewing some pretty good art, and getting some exercise can't go together. Exhibit disappears after Labor day so check it out before they are gone. Enjoy Horsin' Around in Downtown Stamford!!!

SF Guru