Clams Bust Out 2008 With Starry Plough Show Thursday January 3rd

A great 2008 starts of with a big helping of Happy Clams.

Paul Pot on vocals and guitar, Gail Todd on bass & Rawbird banging away in the back.

C'mon out to the Starry Plough (3101 Shattuck at Prince in Berkleley) and have a rousing good time with three great bands. The Happy Clams start it off at 9 pm. It's been said before and bears saying again, "Clams make great openers."

Six bucks and a grin gets you in. See you there.

http://www.thehappyclams.com/

Duane Update: Home never looked so good!

Great news! Greg sez that Duane has been home for a few weeks now. If you want to send him a holiday greeting, I’m sure it would be greatly appreciated. Thanks again to all for your support! Duane's address is as follows.

Duane Stueve
4006C Beale Road
Marysville, CA 95901

Happy Holidaze To All!!!

Unreal Band Kicks Off New Year Cheer With December 29th Show In Berkeley

Why wait until the last minute… time's a wasting and you aren’t getting any younger! Who knows, the way things are going lately, you might not even make it to 2008! In any case, get a jump on the "real" party this year with one that is totally "unreal". Yup, da Unreal Band will be performing at the famously friendly Starry Plough in Berkeley on Saturday, December 29th. I'm sure all your Muffin buds that are still kicking around town will be on hand. The music starts sharply at 9 and Ungie sez be sure to stay til Midnight for a very special treat.

An if that ain't enough to get you out of the house, Marshall sez IF you show up with your Gold Nugget Club card, he'll even buy you a drink...NUGGIT!

Hey, it could be the best 10 bux you ever spent.

For more info check out:

http://www.unrealband.com/

http://www.starryploughpub.com/

The Itchy Mountain Men Go Goth at St. Hilary's in Tiburon, Friday November 9, 2007

The Itchy Mountain Men will be performing at Old St. Hilary’s just up the hill from down town Tiburon. One of the few Carpenter Gothic churches to survive in its original setting, St. Hilary’s was built in 1888 to serve railroad families. A cool old hall to hear some great mountain music!

The pre-show will include Molly Tuttle, who is 16, and has just started attending Palo Alto High, has a haunting sound. Molly will be performing with her two younger brothers, Michael and Sullivan.

See: http://www.jacktuttle.com/Molly/index.html or http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f6j7Bn6ENYo

This show is planned, produced, performed, and promoted largely by the teenage performers, but is sure to be entertaining for all ages.

Doors open at 7:30pm. Tickets at $8 for youth (18 and under) $10 for adults before the show, and $15/$20 at the door. St. Hillary’s is at 201 Esperanza in Tiburon. There is a shuttle from the Boardwalk in downtown Tiburon to Old St. Hilary’s.

More information on the show can be found at www.itchymountainmen.com

Join the Happy Clams at the Sixth Annual Murder Ballads Bash Saturday, October 27th

In the words of Paul Pot …“A classic, American event featuring songs of murder, death, and despair”. Get macabre early this Halloween season with the Happy Clams at the Starry Plough in Berkeley! This is a one-of-a-kind event and will surely put you into the spirit of the season for only 8 bux! If you haven’t been before, it’s a very fun show… come check it out. Hey, Harlan alone is probably worth the price of admission (diaper or not). Paul sez the band will perform at 11:45 for those on a tight schedule.

Starry Plough Sixth Annual Murder Ballads Bash
3101 Shattuck Ave. in Berkeley, CA
Saturday, October 27th at 9pm

Featuring:

Bob Harp
The Hollyhocks
The Daisy Pushers (Joni Davis and Val Esway)
The Peculiar Pretzelmen
Junior Showmanship
Loretta Lynch
Joe Rut
Ash Reiter
The Happy Clams
5 Cent Coffee
Harlan Hollander
Geoff Pond
... and mc'd by the Spider-Ridden Woman

Unreal Band CD Release and Pat Quinn Tribute at the Ashkenaz Saturday, October 20

Almost thirty years ago, a guy heard a band practicing in a room they had rented in the back of his club. Blown away by what he was hearing, he declared that the band was far too good to not be playing gigs and he booked them to play an upcoming night. Well.....the guy was Dave Nadel.....the club was The Ashkenaz.....and the band....well they didn't have a name yet, but there was this one word that seemed to keep coming up...........

Three decades later, The Unreal Band is (finally) releasing their first CD "Asphalt Dream." And the release party is taking place where it all began.....at The Ashkenaz Club this coming Saturday Night, October 20th at 9pm. The Ashkenaz is located at 1317 San Pablo Anvenue in Berkeley. The night falls one year to the day of Pat ("Irish") Quinn's exit on the sunset and a musical tribute in his honor is on the agenda with some special guest performers.

And if THAT is not enough, GRAPEFRUIT ED is going to kick things off. Chuck Rosene, Steve Ellis and Sam Johnston will be puttin' in some overtime. They'll join Pat Nevins and Stu Allen for some "citrus flavored tunes for the soul" before getting Unreal with Gary Robinson, Ron Kresch, Clayton Call and Fred Weed.

And if THAT is not enough, the emcee for the evening's festivities will be none other that the divine dodo himself, WAVY GRAVY !!!!!!!! Sooooo......we are calling all Hogs, Buffaloes, Muffineers, Avenueites, all characters savory and unsavory......and anyone who has ever been Unreal....to join us in a celebration of thirty years of Rock and Roll.

And if THAT is not enough we are going to give a complementary copy of Asphalt Dream to all paying attendees. (CD giveaway will take place after the first set of Unreal).

$13 at the door ($10 for students with ID).

Check It Out, Muffin Music In Rock-tober!

Captain Mike and the “Seaweeds”, Saturday, October 6, 11AM – 4PM, Oceans Fest, Gulf of the Farallones Marine Sanctuary Headquarters, Crissy Field, San Francisco. Mike sez come out to celebrate our Marine Sanctuaries and enjoy lots of fine food, wine and some great blues! Also THE spot to check out the Blue Angels!

For more info: http://farallones.org/events/oceanfest.php

The “Original” Happy Clams, Sunday, October 14, 5PM at the Stork Club, Telegraph Avenue, Oakland. Come celebrate the return of Gail Todd to the Clams! Besides, it’s “Brick Day”. Check out the lineup and a BBQ to boot.

For more info: http://www.storkcluboakland.com/

The Unreal Band, Saturday, October 20, Ashkenaz, San Pablo Avenue, Berkeley. This will be a one year tribute performance in memory of Pat “Irish” Quinn. Should be a great show at this sweet old venue.

For more info: http://www.ashkenaz.com/

Muffin "Fall Fest" Was A Blast - Thanks To Everyone!

Muffin’s first “Fall Fest” started with an incredible thunder and lightning show complete with downpour on Friday night. Fortunately we had a good hot fire going before it started and the rain only lasted a hour or so. While the fire warmed our outards, a few rounds of Lou’s Wild Turkey warmed our innards. Paul, Doug and Coolius put together an impromptu performance that had everyone in stitches. Some say the round of fireworks finished off the storm because by midnight the sky was perfectly clear and the moon lit up the whole place.

Saturday was a beaut! Crisp fall weather returned and the Cavepainters and a few other stragglers rolled in. Chris, Michelle, Bill and Larry warmed up the shoe pits in the early afternoon. Elin’s rain delayed Louisiana bug boil went on to major fanfare in the late afternoon along with an incredible salad, rice and beans, cowboy enchiladas and some aioli sauce that was to die for. Even Ed made an appearance to sample the fine fare. The fire was stoked up and loaded with a fresh pile of oak while Rick, Ed, Steve, Laurie and Matt cranked up all the Cavepaint faves as darkness flooded in. Doug pitched in with some of his more colorful Jomo classics while Greg, Gary and the Fire Marshall battled over a major conflagration that had everyone seeing colors. Paul dug out some classics and Clam favorites from his tune bag to round out the evening. Matt capped things off with a heart wrenching return to the 70's. Quite a "pick" fest it was.

Dina and Jen got things rolling on Sunday with a fabulous brunch of eggs, sausage, pototoes and banana breads. Most had packed up by noon and were headed out. A jar was passed around for “Duane’s recovery fund” that netted around $600. I’m sure Duane’s family will be grateful for the assistance. Some folks went by to visit Duane in Marysville on the way in or the way out. He seems to be improving and hopefully will be able to go home soon. It’s been a long haul but looks hopeful at this point.

Thanks to everyone who made the trip up (and those that tried). A great time was had by all! If anyone has pictures, send ‘em in and I’ll post ‘em.

Muffin's Lucky Ju Ju Sponsors The First Pacific Pinball Exposition

Lucky Ju Ju is inviting you to attend the Pacific Pinball Expo show! All the proceeds will go to the Neptune Beach Amusement Museum to help further their quest for a permanent home for their pinball collection and start their vision of the Science, Art and History Center.

Mike Schiess of the Lucky Ju Ju Pinball and Jim Dietrick of the Pinball Revival Co. are sponsoring this really big show at the Marin Civic Center. Play hundreds of old and new machines, all set on freeplay! Raffles for 2 machines plus lots of prizes.

Check out the website for more info:www.nbam.org/ppexpo

PACIFIC PINBALL EXPOSITION

October 5-6-7, 2007

Marin Civic Center

Hours: Fri., Oct. 5: 2:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.

Sat., Oct. 6: 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m.

Sun., Oct. 7: 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Ticket Prices: 12 & under: $10 per day, 12 & under:$25 weekend Adult: weekend $35 , Adult: single day $20

"Wrong Turn" Sea Biskit (AKA Fall Fest) Right On Target

Greg sez the port-o-pots are on their way, Elin sez the fish pot is ready to go, the Tiki Shak has been waitin’ for us since May and Ed sez the “pits” have never looked finer! With a little bit of mountain fog and maybe one of those wave sound machines, we will be ready to BISKIT!!! (sand not included). For the uninitiated, this is like Muffin-EASY so don’t sweat it too much. Bring a warm bag or an extra blanket or two cause it may be chilly up in them thar hills! Friday night is “fish boil”, Saturday night is cowboy cookin’ (beach style) and Sunday is Miss Dina’s breakfast of champions pot luck.

If you got it in your heart, don’t forget to bring a little “change for Duane”. He is still mending in a facility in Marysville and we may pay him a visit or two on Saturday. Hope to see you all Friday or Saturday at the latest. Don’t forget Cavepainters at the Starry Plough tonight, 6PM in Berkeley for those who may want to get an early start on the weekend! Cow-A-Bunga Indeed!!!

Michael Schiess and Lucky Ju Ju Unveil First Ever Visible Pinball Machine!

Wow, the first ever visible pinball machine. Humans embedded in plastic? Who cares! Check this baby out! Wow Michael, very cool!!! This beautiful machine and a whole lot more will be on display at the Pacific Pinball Expo hosted by Muffin's own Lucky Ju Ju at the Marin Convention Center on October 5 - 7.

More pics of this incredible machine can be found at:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/25081749@N00/sets/72157602068454658/

For additional info on the Pinball Expo go to:

http://neptunebeachamusementmuseum.org/ppexpo/visiblePinball.html

Great job Michael! Go check out his show!

Laissez les bons temps rouler! "Sea Biskit" Done Gone Wrong?

Ya best bring long a lil cayun sauz wid ya Friday cuz we gonna be boilin de crab an de swimps up reel goud. Dis is gonna be a fine souper, I garontee!

What ever happened to the "anti-Muffin", better known as the "Sea Biskit"!?! I guess that we all got too lazy to make the trek to RCA/Shoe beach for the end-o-summer event. Darryl would make up his wicked roux and we would all bring seafood to toss in the pot (fish heads and Clance's can of mackerel not withstanding). A huge bonfire would light up the beach and we would dance and drink to summer's passing all night long til the rangers came out to kick us out (you can't call it "camping" if you don't go to sleep!).

So maybe we can revive a little bit o that spirit at this at this event (see Fall Fest post) with a cajun crab, crawdaddy and whatever chow down. Wow, nothing like a little toxic shock to kick the neurons into gear! Sounds like Elin and Hans-Jurgen have volunteered to get the ball rolling. It'll probably be a "late" dinner to give everyone a change to arrive so get there when you can. Oh and Miss Dina has proposed a Sunday morning "pot luck" brunch. Sounds like another case of bubbly might be in order. And if anyone is still hungry on Saturday night, we can throw some grills down and do some cowboy cookin. Rumor has it Club Dub (Oui Oui) will be open for bizniz and that that most of those Cavepainters will likely show to play a favorite or two. Yow, how cool is dat!

And in case you've been brain dead for the last 2 years, the Cavepainters are still playing Thurday happy hour at the Starry Plough in Berkeley (6-8PM) every week. Good times and great tunes for FREE! (or the price of a pitcher or two).

Unreal Band Plays the Starry Plough Saturday, September 15th at 8PM

… and with “Special Guests” to boot. How can you go wrong?! Yea, they play again next month at Ashkenaz but somehow you just can’t beat that special Plough ambiance. Heck, I think half the band was born there. Muffin auditioned and hired the band at the Plough in what...1983? Ouch! Oh well. I’m sure it will be great show and you can hang with all your Muffin pals!

http://www.starryploughpub.com/

http://www.unrealband.com/

PLUS: Thanks to all of you that ack'ed the Muff Fall Fest/Duane Raising. The responses have been trickling in. At this point looks like we will have about 20 folks. Rumors are that a good portion of the Cavepainters might show! Now that would be very cool! Stay tuned!

Muffin's First "Fall Fest" Set For September 28 and 29th

Muffin in September? Mooo... Hate to see summer fading away? Dreading those shorter and shorter days? This is one last chance to “git out in them thar hills” while the sun still shines and the weather is fine!

The Meadow Muffin Commit-tay is announcing a first ever “informal” weekend camp-out in Browns Valley, Friday and Saturday September 28 and 29 (pack up Sunday), open to Muffineer’s and their closest friends. The plan is to set up a limited camp in “Muffin Holler” and just kick back and enjoy the outdoors for a couple of days. We will have a port-a-pot or two on hand, the firewood pile stocked and maybe plan a communal meal or two (Saturday night?). Other than that, it will be a "Muff in the buff"!

If you are interested in attending, or have ideas, please leave a comment on this post or email thos.bell@gmail.com. More details as they become available. This event will be "free" although we may ask you to donate what you can to Duane's recovery fund.

One final note: the O'Conno Lodge is closed for the season.

Play Pinball and Help a Worthy Cause!

You Are Cordially Invited To

Benefit Fundraiser for
Bay Area Outreach Program
Hosted by Greg Matthews and NBAM
Sunday, September 2nd, 4 to 8pm
At
Lucky Ju Ju Pinball 713 Santa Clara Ave, Alameda, CA 94501
Entrance fee $10/adult, $5/children under 18 for unlimited pinball play on 40 machines. (vintage and modern) All proceeds will go to the BORP event. About BORP
http://www.borp.org/
Bay Area Outreach & Recreation Program (BORP) is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization working to improve the health, independence and social integration of people with physical disabilities through sports, fitness and recreation programs. At BORP, we believe that sports and recreation provide a path to greater achievement to which all people should have access, and we continually strive to make this a reality.

Help us raise funds and awareness for this deserving cause and have fun playing the beautiful vintage pinball machines in the Lucky Ju Ju’s collection. All games are on free-play, no quarters needed! Come re-live your youth and show your children the original video game! There will be pizza and drinks available for a small fee.

For additional Info visit: http://www.nbam.org/   http://www.ujuju.com/

Itchy Mountain Men Add Some Class To Sausalito Art Festival, Saturday and Sunday, September 1 & 2

The Sausalito Art Festival is a major Northern California showcase for Art, Craft and Music, running September 1-3, 2007. The bill includes some classic talent such as the Quick Silver Messenger Service, New Riders of the Purple Sage and the Marshall Tucker Band.

Muffin's own Itchy Mountain Men will appear on the Children's Stage at 3:30 on Saturday, September 1 and at 4:30 on Sunday, September 2. This looks like an event with something for everyone. Check it out and stop by to say hello to Stretch (Roger) , Sweet Pea (Christine), Slick (Rick), Bean (Ben) and Snuffy (Joel)!

More poop to be found at:

http://www.sausalitoartfestival.org/entertainment.html

Unreal Band to Play John Havard Benefit on Sunday, August 26 - 5:30PM

The Unreal Band have a number of gigs coming up in Berkeley over the next few months starting with a benefit appearance for John Havard at the Starry Plough on Sunday August 26. Word is that the band is scheduled to go on at 5:30PM. John has been diagnosed with lung cancer and like any true artist has very few visible means of support. You probably know John from his stint with the Natives and a long list of other East Bay bands over the last 30 years. Will pass more info along when it becomes clear when the Unreal will play (it's from 1 to 7PM). It will definately be a huge event with no doubt many, many great musicians. More details are available at the web site announcing John's new CD.

http://www.davidelias.com/sideman/

Ungie sez that the band has also booked the following gigs. Details to be posted as they become available...

Saturday September 15, 2007 -Starry Plough, 3101 Shattuck Ave. Berkeley
http://www.starryploughpub.com/

Saturday October 20, 2007 - Ashkenaz, San Pablo Ave. Berkeley
http://www.ashkenaz.com/

So, come out and support the band!

Duane's Home Address

There have been many requests for an updated address for Duane and given that his location is tentative (he may be moving again), here is a permanent address:

Duane Stueve
4006 C North Beale Road
Marysville, CA 95901

Thanks to all who have expressed concern! I'm sure he would appreciate any show of support.

Cavepainters Get Down Saturday August 11 At Kellee's Bar in Albany

Yup, it’s your chance for some mid-summer slumming this Saturday, August 11, 8PM at Kellee’s Bar in Albany with entertainment provided FREE by the incredible Cavepainters. If you haven’t made it by the Starry Plough in Berkeley for their weekly Thursday happy hour gathering (6-8PM) this is a great opportunity to check them out and hang out with some Muffineers that have been missing in action since May. From all appearances Ed Wray is “back on that horse” and will be appearing with the band.

Kellee's 953 San Pablo Avenue Albany (510) 528-1734

On other fronts… Greg reports is that Duane has been moved from Reno to a long term care facility near Woodland. Apparently his condition has not significantly improved. There has been some discussions about a possible fund raiser… possibly in September. Stay toon’ed! Many thanks to all the folks including the Itchy Mountain Men who have sent donations to help out Duane and his family. A new address for Duane will be posted as soon as it is available.

PLUS: anyone interested in a casual weekend campout in Browns Valley in mid to end of September please post a comment here!

Duane Update: Condition Improving, Many Hurdles Ahead

Greg paid a visit to our injured wagonmaster, Duane Stueve, in Carson City, NV on Wednesday (7/11) and reports back that he appears to be making progress. As Greg sez, "He is one banged up old cowboy". The hospital is hoping that he can improve enough in the next few weeks to be moved closer to his home near Linda, CA. Greg made a $300 donation to Duane's family from the funds remaining in the Muffin account. Duane's wife and daughter have been at his side since the accident early last month and the donation was a welcome show of support.

An article "Horseman Gets Hand", appeared in the June 25 Marysville Appeal Democrat (http://www.appeal-democrat.com/news/stueve_50260___article.html/family_horses.html) providing more details on the accident and Duane's condition. A fund raiser was held on July 7th by the Linda Fire Department.

From the information at hand, you should be able to send cards or letters to Duane c/o:
Tahoe Pacific Hospital- Meadows 10101 Double R Blvd Reno, NV 89521

Longtime Muffin Teamster, Duane Stueve, Hospitalized in Reno

Details are a bit sketchy, but Duane was involved in an accident at a draft horse competition in Winnemucca in early June. Apparently there was a mishap involving a mixed team of his and an acquaintances horses resulting in a bad fall and a head injury. His prolonged stay in a Reno hospital has resulted in various complications and the word is that he is not doing well. It is hoped that he can be transferred soon to a Marysville facility where he can be close to his family and friends. Muffin would like to get word to him that we are thinking about him and wish him a speedy recovery. Any comments to this post will be passed along to Duane. If you would like to contribute to Duane’s recovery fund please send contributions to Greg Popejoy, 2016 F. St. Sacramento CA 95814.

Ju Ju Art Opening for Joe Bansuelo this Friday!

“female" © 2007 by Joe Bansuelo

The Lucky Ju Ju Pinball Art Gallery Codially Invites you to the Opening of

"JUST ANOTHER STICKER JUNKIE"

The Photography of
Joseph Bansuelo
Opening Reception
Friday July 6th, 2007 from 6:30 pm to 10:30pm at
Neptune Beach Amusement Museum’s
The Lucky Ju Ju Pinball Art Gallery
713 Santa Clara Avenue
Alameda, Ca 94501

Runs from July 6th to July 31st, 2007.

See Website for more information: http://www.ujuju.com/ or http://www.nbam.org/

The past 20+ years playing in bands, touring and recording music has earned me a Masters Degree in duct tape and its never-ending fix-all properties. My Dad fixed everything with a little tape, this should have given me a clue to my eventual addiction to adhesive backed products!
I have friends that used to keep razor blades in their wallets just to lift cool stickers they would come across. Instead of an old shoebox full of baseball cards, I have the back of a van full of stickers. I feel that stickers never really reach their true potential in life until stuck someplace or on something. There is nothing more satisfying than a properly placed sticker! Whether it's on your car, skateboard, bicycle, guitar, motorcycle or refrigerator. It is amazing how much money is spent on endorsements and advertising with the end result being the proper placement of a sticker. Today's NASCAR is cut up similar to the way a side of beef is laid out by the butcher. The tastier cuts costs more money.
The area of pop culture is a slippery slope. The idea of sharing a portion of today's sticker culture is one that I have been excited about for a long time. With the ever popular online community and photo sharing websites it's amazing how many others are documenting and sharing what you are thinking about doing right this moment! I have chosen to share a few locations that are actually indoors as opposed to the popular street locations that many people see everyday. Maybe you recognize these places and actually slapped one of the pieces up personally?
The next time you go out to see some live music or are waiting for a taxi at the airport, check the back of a sign or pole for a few of the vinyl and paper messages left behind. Don't be so quick to dismiss these little artistic artifacts left by some nomadic art lover.
Enjoy, Seph
Notes from the Curator
This is Joe’s 2nd time here at the Trans-View and his first solo. Joe has been haunting the Ju Ju since its inception and thru Oakland’s Pinball Mafia has been providing us with protection services from day one. But it is not thru any “favorism” that Joe is gilding the panels of the Trans View. Joe has taken more pictures and has an appreciation for graphics and the printed image that far surpasses anyone I’ve ever met. He can study the silk-screened lines of a playfield and soak up the minute detail waxing eloquently on their aesthetic qualities. His keen eye captures a story and gets it into the camera like no other. I never had a taste for stickers until I met Joe. And now, we’ve got a whole room full to share with everyone! Thanks Joe!

Greetings from Captain Mike and a Sea King Plug!

Well, Captain Mike is off to sea once again but wanted to relay a big hello to the Muffin folk… Mike writes:

We had a great time playing at the Muffin!!! Those muffineers who simply cannot face another day without a dose of the SeaKings' Blues can go to www.cdbaby.com/captainmikeatsk to purchase our latest creation "I send the Cash to my Baby" for the measly price of 12.97, or for about $9 if they buy more than 1 copy - what a deal!!!!

By the way Mike, cheers to ALL the Kings and what a memorable performance it was! Thanks for coming out and keep us posted on upcoming events.

Art World Agog as Muffin's Paul Pot Flexes Flair

“The Scheming of Things” Pencil on Bristol 10” x 8” 2007

Drawn by Paul Purcell
Open Studio
1029 Pardee St Look for the “Drawer”
Berkeley CA 94710
email: paul@thehappyclams.com

This is the last weekend (of 2) to check out drawings by the legendary Paul Purcell (aka Paul Pot), right in his own studio!

This Saturday and Sunday (6/9 & 10) between 11AM and 6PM, Paul’s abode will be open to view his recent (and perhaps not so recent) works.

Wouldn’t it be cool if everyone showed up at once! Just kidding! But hey there is an opportunity to get together with Paul and the CLAMS, hot off their Muffin Victory Tour at the Stork Club this Sunday…

As Paul Sez:

Get a real workout and greasy buffalo wings at the Festival Of Fitness BBQ at the Stork Club Sunday, June 10.

Doors open at 2. Music Starts at 3. Clams about 6 or so.

One last thing ... MUFFIN DECOMPRESSION (it's a concept, not a band) at the Miz tonight (6/6) at 8PM!!! Surprise Guest Appearance!

Formal Muffin THANK YOU List!

OK, here it comes…. Don’t hold your breath!

MEADOW MUFFIN XXXII would like to THANK…

Papa Ed for putting up with us all weekend long
Paul P. for capturing the spirit of Muffin in the flyer and keeping the faith
Vasco for hauling a bunch of really great teenagers all way from Marin (again)
Cynthia for beating the bushes for cash, mailing flyers and the power tee sales
Jerry for coming out of the bushes
Mark, Bill and Damon for those classic flicks
Michelle (AKA Batgirl) for printing the tickets and getting the ball rolling
Zintzy for that great new trophy and keeping the pits in order
Billy Joe Bob for his wonderful collection of balls
Gary P. for driving Ed to the hospital when he could have been partying
Dan for hauling his killer blues all the way from Portland
Jane for letting Dan do it
Fred for blowing out his credit at BevMo
G. Lee for performing his yearly miracle one more time
Mallory and Jen for getting up there when it hurts like hell
Joel & Co for turning Friday night up side down
Matt for pulling the sound together again and again and again
Dina and Tim for creating an incredible brunch and some Pirate action at the bar
Sandra Lee for making this years brunch possible and putting up with this madness
Jeff for riding up a week early to rebuild the tractor carburetor
Duane for giving Pat his last hayride
Mike and Melissa for providing many electronic thrills including the Lil’ JuJu
Bruce (AKA Gumby) for making that extra effort
TOC, Larry and C&M for the extra financial boost when it was most needed
Roger and Sheila for making a special trip and the XXX-tra bux too
Ungie for traveling all the way from LA to show us another side of Irish
Ed W for taking a big hit in the name of Muffin
Gail for staffing the bar when no one else would
Cindy for feeding the BBC
Brad for keeping an eye on things when everyone went to bed
Derwoody for all the great shots
Hans and Elin for pitching in all over
The Neighbors for not complaining to the Cops when we ran the show until 2
The fire pit crew for the best fire pit in memory
The "Mow Down" crew for one of the best mow downs in memory
All the folks that stuck around to tear down and clean up
Greg for EVERYTHING of course
Pat Quinn for being "Irish" and making this year extra special
Lastly, All the BANDS for their hard work and dedication to this event. This year will be hard to beat!

If I forgot anyone (and I’m sure I did), I’m sorry. Just remember Muffin isn’t a party, its US and it couldn’t exist without YOU!

Cavepainters Photo Release: Where's Ed!?!

Thanks, Nancy!

For those of you that missed it somehow, Cavepainter Ed Wray took a fall on Saturday night, injuring his wrist before having a chance to play Sunday (I think the appearance of the Quinnettes may have brought on a bit too much exuberance). Word in is that he has had surgery. In any case, I'm sure ALL of Muffin is pullin' for you Ed! All I can say is it couldn't have happened to a nicer guy. Take care buddy and we hope you make a quick recovery!

First Pic's In: Derwoody "Out Does" Himself!

This is just a sample of some amazing pic's by Derwoody. Check 'em all out HERE.

First Post Muffin Post: THANK YOU EVERYONE!!!

Hey Muffineers! THANK YOU for making it one of the BEST Muffins ever!!!

Many more posts to come in the coming days and weeks as we sort the whole mess out and try to digest the good, the bad and the ugly, but for now just hoping everyone got home safe. At first glance, it appears that we can meet all our financial obligations. Thanks for your support! To anyone we owe money to, checks will be cut in a day or so and mailed out as the dust settles.

In the Lost & Found department, a number of items have been claimed but a few remain including:

1 Ludwig drum stool (BBC?)
1 brown leather guitar (GC) strap
2 foldable keyboard (?) stands
1 boom microphone stand (I had a similar one that disappeared so...)
A few misc cables (yellow tags?)

You can claim these by emailing thos.bell@gmail.com

Feel free to send links, photo’s, stories or whatever to the above and I will be glad to post them for all to see.

The formal "debriefing" will be held at Paul Pot’s Open Mic at the Missouri Lounge (2600 San Pablo Ave, Berkeley) on Wednesday, June 6^th, 8PM.

More to come! STAY TOONED! MUFFIN!!!

Benefit/Opening Runs Simultaneously in Oakland and Alameda this Friday June 1st!!!

You Are Invited to a Double Header Evening of Fun, Art, Music and History in the Making!

“Oakland’s Pinball Mafia HI-Score Rock&roll reunion”

Hosted By MC Emmet
Friday June 1st, 2007 from 9 pm to 2 at
The Stork Club
2330 Telegraph Ave.
Oakland, CA

MUSIC * PINBALL CONTEST * DANCING GIRLS * ART AUCTION
Happening Concurrently With

"Rocked out pinball machine!"
A Kustom game by Dirty Donny and Wade Krause

Opening Reception
Friday June 1st, 2007 from 6 pm to 12 at
Neptune Beach Amusement Museum’s
The Lucky Ju Ju Pinball Art Gallery
713 Santa Clara Avenue
Alameda, Ca 94501

Runs From June 1st to July 3rd, 2007.

See Website for more information:
http://www.ujuju.com/ or http://www.nbam.org/

Media Contact: Michael Schiess
pinhead@ujuju.com 510-205-9793

Artist Websites:
http://www.dirtydonny.com/
http://www.pinballplayfield.com/
http://www.circuspunks.com/

Photo: Hellacopters Pinball Machine Backglass by Dirty Donny and Wade Krause © 2007

Clams Unhappy about Opening for Sea Kings, Skidaddle Back to Sunday

Well, after a whole lot-o-churn, it looks like things are back to where they started. Funny how that happens more often than not. Apparently the Clams were not too comfortable taking the stage before a bunch of Sea Kings anyway! Something about an off-color chowder recipe remark. Can’t say I blame ‘em and everyone knows that Sunday night is the new Saturday anyway. Just don’t tell that to those Roamin’ Unreal. Now that the current crisis has been averted maybe we can get back to the business of what Muffin is all about. Perhaps Gimme had it right when he said that “in a million years no one will remember what band played but they sure as hell will remember who won that beautiful new horseshoe trophy”. In any case, sleep well Muffineers with the thought that all is peace and harmony once again in Muffinville. That is until Friday comes when all hell breaks loose once again.

Last Chance To Buy Full Price Ticket Before the Big Event

Tonight is your last chance to hold your head high as you cross that threshold into Muffinville. After that you will have to wait in line, grovel like common folk and beg for permission to buy a ticket AT the Muffin. Paul Pot has graciously offered to sell tickets tonight at his Missouri Club Open Mic. Prices at this late hour will be the outrageous sum of 30 Bux! That seems like a small price to pay to maintain your dignity! Head to the Miz, buy Paul a drink and get your ticket complete with official directions printed right on it. You’ll be well on your way and get to hear some interesting music to boot.

Hank Gimme Suggests Firing ALL Musicians and Hiring Pro Horseshoe Teams Instead

Apparently the odor of a fancy new trophy is in the air because the Weasel’s manager, Playboy Millionaire Hank Gimme, has proposed that Muffin "quit bowing down to all these musicians and artistic types and start taking the sport of professional horseshoes seriously". Rumor has it that somehow Gimme has tapped into a whole pile of cash (in XXX-cess of $1K) and placed an order with Zinz Custom Machining for an incredible new horseshoe prize. "Forget those puny belts or those sissy gold chains, this trophy will shock and awe all your friends and associates. Walk away with this baby and you will be the envy of your block and whole lot more!" With the recent outbreak of Musical Me-itis, Gimme thinks "it’s high time to dump the whole music lineup and focus on some real culture for a change". Apparently Muffin management has been rather cool on the idea but at the same time hasn’t trashed it either. Guess we’ll just have to wait and see if its tunes as usual or Pro Horseshoes all party long!

Unreal All-Stars Recruit Buffalo Roam'rs, Claim Rights to Saturday Slot

Looks like the Unreal All-Stars may live up to their name with a couple recruits from the infamous East Bay’s Buffalo Roam. Bass player, Chuck Rosene and drummer Steve Ellis will definitely provide some heavy hitting to the lineup. With Clayton by the wayside, the Unreal are trying to climb back into their slot on Saturday night. From what I hear, no one is willing to budge. Understand that Cap’n Mike has to put out to Sea on Sunday, Clam master Paul Pot says that the Clams are firmly wedged in place and Dan Lange, well he isn’t called Big Dan for nothing! This may come down to a battle royale and it won’t be pretty. This sort of back stabbing and oneupmanship haven’t been seen (music wise) at the Muffin in years. What would Pat do? Weasel his way in somehow no doubt. Maybe we should settle this with some good old fashioned arm wrestling. Do Clams have arms? I knew this whole deal wasn’t done yet! Stay tuned for further details.

On other fronts (thank goodness), Ungie and Vernon (from Unreal days of past) have been working on a video to honor Pat Quinn and are hoping to premiere it at the Muffin one night or the other. Could this mean black tie and red carpet at the Gold Nugget Theatre?

Report From The Mow Down: MISSION ACCOMPLISHED!

Really... this time it was no photo-op! Once we put some actual gas in the tractor, things got under way. Major thanks go out to the king of two wheeled tractors, Mr. Velocette, Jeffy S. for making the trek last Thursday all the way from Vallejo to rebuild the carb. The major portions of the grass did get cut before the mower threw a cutting arm (Once Again!). It's always something and fortunately for us, the dearth of rain has resulted in significantly less growth this year. Even our beloved stage, "Old Soggy", fared the winter fairly well and was looking rather convincing and ready to party after a dust-off and a quick coat of battleship gray. Performers though, are advised to step lightly (no pogo'ing please). Never know when that layer of paint may give way or the ghost of Clance might appear and swallow you up. Of note, another Muffin "Miracle" was witnessed when the stage light bar was dredged from the mud, shored and splinted into place, plugged in and all the lights worked without a short. BA be with you! Speaking of which, a large pile of firewood seemed to assemble itself, as if to say "Bring on your best Bushwhacker!". Big Tee's beer-blurred Home Depot science project, the "Kun-trap-shun", stage canopy system appeared somewhat dysfunctional by late afternoon but some hope persists that with a real tarp in place folks will overlook the sore spots. The word on the street is that Bishop Joey may be on hand to cover up the whole mess with his fantastic banner collection. Closing ceremonies followed with the traditional Muffin "Put the Neighbors on Notice" 21 gun (well let's just say it was an impressive show of firepower) salute. Many cans met their maker and this years "Mistress of Mow Down" had the right Romanian hardware on hand for a fitting finale.

Other things of note:

The operators of Gold Nugget Theatre are requesting that anyone with appropriate video material (Old Muffin stuff or otherwise), please dig it out and bring it with you for general consumption. Specifically looking for that "never seen" raw footage we know is rotting away in certain people's video collections.

Club Oiselle is still seeking folks to help at the bar and/or help with provisioning. "Our gal" Mal has graciously offered her services again as mixoligist supreme after her bang up job last year (Pirates need not apply).

T-Shirts are in and some vending help will be needed on Saturday PM ... Let the Pope or Marshall know if you can help with this. BTW there is a free shirt in it for you. (FCFS, must be able to make change)

Expenses are up this year (when aren't they!) so we will be extracting "Muffin Tax" from walk-ins on Saturday evening. We're looking for a few cute looking hard asses to help with that as well.

Reminder: Those "Itchy Guys" are playing in Larkspur this evening (see earlier post) so show some support if you can. Also an Unreal "preview" may be in the works for the Miz this Wednesday.

Stay tuned for last minute updates!