The 2009 edition of Jazz in the Meadow was a great success despite a few showers. The gathering of marvelous musicians, great friends, and plentiful food and libation soon overcame the inconvenience of a little dampness. The Bartlett family and Benny Benedum enjoyed the day as much or more than the guests. Once Benny gets his carpal tunnel problem resolved he hopes to again become part of the entertainment.
Salsamba was a big hit — they brought tropical aires and soon warmed the meadow with their Latin tempos. Much thanks to Eric, George, Eric, Paul, and Tom.
Special thanks to Jeff Lashway for stepping in at the last minute for Frank Cunimondo. Jeff, Pat (the Barbarian), and Tom did a beautiful job.
My gratitude to my wife, Helen, who was the coordinator of the event and to Benny Benedum – the co-host. His friendship and love of jazz further bonds our relationship. Many thanks to our family – Sandy and Nancy organized the food and drinks and worked on the general coordination. Sean and Gabe took care of the technical aspects of the website, sounds, and photography. That work continues as they ready the Jazz in the Meadow 2009 website up-date (stay tuned!).
The tone of the day was set with the beautiful blessing by Rev. Richard Moreledge and then encapsulated with a toast by Franklin Blackstone. Thank you both for your eloquence!
Our thanks would not be complete without acknowledging the efforts of the many friends and neighbors who helped with set-up of the stage, brought tables, food, etc. and were generally supportive.
Kudos also to our Ambassadors of Jazz – Sue and Jim Armour, Bonnie and Franklin Blackstone, and Dela and Denny Lowther. Didn’t they look sartorially resplendent in their pink blazers?
Thanks, Tim Stevens, for your rendition of “My Funny Valentine” dedicated to Bonnie Blackstone.
To all our friends – we thank you!! It was a joy to share with you a day set aside to celebrate Friendship and Jazz.
Plans are being made for the 2011 event. Please let us know of your thoughts and comments.
Hello everyone! I just wanted to drop a note of thanks to the Bartletts, the Benedums, and to everyone who made yesterday such a lovely experience. I loved playing for you and much appreciate the great support. Playing with Pat and Tom was wonderful and the great audience made it even better! I hope to see everyone again in the near future!
Thanks again and take care.
Jeff Lashway
Once Again …. An awesome day with wonderful music and good friendship. We look forward to the next one.
Thank you both for your passion and to your “HELPERS” for their diligence…..YOU GUYS SWING ! ! !
Brools and Helen
You both manage to keep it so personal and casual while creating a wide circle of friends, not even mention family. I love not only your choices of musicians but your kids — they are interesting and delightful to be with. I learned even more about the Hudson Valley
You know, a lot of folks specialize in event planning. You do it brilliantly with your left hands. Think what is waiting for you.
Don and Dana Manges
DEAR FRIENDS , WHAT LOVELY MEMORIES I CARRY OF THE WONDERFUL ,”DAY IN THE MEADOW PARTY OF JAZZ AND FRIENDS AND FOOD”. NOTHING COULD HAVE BEEN NICER THAN BEING WITH YOU ALL LISTENING TO GOOD MUSIC AND MUNCHING ON ALL THE SPECIAL TREATS WHILE CATCHING UP ON EACH OTHERS LIVES.
TAKE A BOW!!!!! YOU SHOULD ALL BE SO PROUD OF THE TERRIFIC PARTY.
THANK YOU FOR INCLUDING ME AND LOOKING FORWARD TO THE NEXT ONE IN 2011.
APPRECIATIVELY,
MOIRA DAVISON
Dear Helen, Brooks, Sandy, Sean, Nancy, Gabe & Benny,
July 18, 2009 – “Jazz in the Meadow”
The day was “PERFECT” in every way! Thanks for the wonderful memories and “ALL THAT JAZZ”!
Love, Bonnie & Franklin
P.S. If this was a taste of heaven, we look forward to 2011!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Brooks & Helen, Wow. What a great spot. That property is a little slice of heaven in the hills.
JoAnn and I had a great time and really enjoyed the company and the food and wine. Sitting around and listening to good jazz is a perfect way to spend an afternoon / evening. Your daughters are real gems. A chip off the old block.
We hope we get invited back some time and next time we will pitch a tent in the woods and make it Bartlettstock.
Take care of that hat.
Rich & JoAnn