Silver Spring Town Center, Inc.

Join us for "An Evening with the Stars" Oscars® Night Sunday, February 26 at 7:00 PM

2012-02-14T10:04:00.001-05:00

Join us for "An Evening with the Stars" Oscars® Night Sunday, February 26 at 7:00 PM at the Civic Building at One Veteran's Plaza in Silver Spring, MD.

Hosting this year's event are Pamela Brown of ABC7/WJLA-TV and NewsChannel 8 and former Washington Redskin linebacker--and two-time Super Bowl champion--Ravin Caldwell!

Silver Spring Town Center and the National Center for Children & Families (NCCF) are bringing Hollywood's biggest night to downtown Silver Spring!

We are pleased to have Pamela Brown of ABC7/WJLA-TV and NewsChannel 8 hosting this year's event. Mix and mingle on the Red Carpet, savor cuisine from around the globe, win exciting prizes and watch the Academy Awards® Live on the big screen!

Come as you are or dress as your favorite star! Perhaps your attire will be inspired by one of the stars or characters on the Big Screen this past year...come in 50's attire from The Help, or dress Hawaiian beach casual like George Clooney in The Descendents. Feel like a simple pair of jeans and fun Hollywood costume jewelry - there will be plenty of that too! Everyone will have fun posing for a photo on the Red Carpet with their favorite "stars" on hand that night!

There will also be an array of raffle prizes to bid on as well as swag bags filled with entertainment passes, gift certificates and other goodies to take home.

Tickets are $25 in advance if purchased online by Saturday, February 24th! After the 24th, tickets will be $35 per person at the door. Admission includes an array of beverages and heavy hors d'oeuvres, featuring cuisine from around the globe. Don't worry, we will have plenty of popcorn and Milk Duds on site as well!

Order online here: An Evening with the Stars To order by mail, please send checks made payable to "NCCF" for $25 per person with the names of attendees on the "memo" line and postmarked by February 20th. Send to:

Silver Spring Town Center Inc.
Silver Spring Civic Building
One Veterans Plaza
Silver Spring, MD 20910

For any questions regarding this event, contact lisa@silverspringtowncenter.com.

All proceeds benefit The National Center for Children and Families, as well as Silver Spring Town Center, Inc.

We hope to see you for "An Evening with the Stars" in our "community living room" on Oscars® Night!

Silver Spring Town Center Arts Salon - February 16, 2011, noon at the Civic Building!

2012-02-14T09:58:00.003-05:00

The Silver Spring Town Center Arts Salon

Thursday, February 16 Noon-1:00 p.m.

Topic: Facing Rejection (How do you keep going after a rejection?

Every artist has to deal with rejection. Come and share your war wounds, your worst nightmare, your triumph-over-tragedy. Or come and gain strength by knowing that you're not alone.

Who’s invited: Fine artists, filmmakers, writers, musicians, photographers, graphic designers, playwrights, poets, and anyone interested in the creative process.

What to bring: Ideas, questions, stories, business cards for networking, and a brown bag lunch and/or drink, if desired.

Where to show up: Silver Spring Civic Building; Silver Spring, MD 20910. We’ll meet in the Colesville Room, 2nd floor. The Civic Building is the new building across from the Majestic Movie Theater, on Ellsworth between Fenton and Cedar. Most meters on the street are one hour only; To mapquest, we suggest you use the address for the Town Square Garage (Garage 61) 801 Ellsworth Dr, Silver Spring, MD 20910, which is right across the Street.

How to RSPV and/or receive notices about the SSTC monthly salons: Please join the FB page: Silver Spring Town Center Arts Salon at http://www.facebook.com/groups/111769958927685/

HOST: Mary Amato (Host) is an author, poet, songwriter, musician, and playwright. info@maryamato.com; http://www.maryamato.com/

"An Evening with the Stars" Oscars Night, Sunday, February 26th!

2012-02-06T00:34:00.001-05:00

Join us for "An Evening with the Stars" Oscars® Night Sunday, February 26 at 7:00 PM at the Civic Building at One Veteran's Plaza in Silver Spring, MD.

Hosting this year's event is Pamela Brown of ABC7/WJLA-TV and NewsChannel 8

Silver Spring Town Center and the National Center for Children & Families (NCCF) are bringing Hollywood's biggest night to downtown Silver Spring!

We are pleased to have Pamela Brown of ABC7/WJLA-TV and NewsChannel 8 hosting this year's event. Mix and mingle on the Red Carpet, savor cuisine from around the globe, win exciting prizes and watch the Academy Awards® Live on the big screen!

Come as you are or dress as your favorite star! Perhaps your attire will be inspired by one of the stars or characters on the Big Screen this past year...come in 50's attire from The Help, or dress Hawaiian beach casual like George Clooney in The Descendents. Feel like a simple pair of jeans and fun Hollywood costume jewelry - there will be plenty of that too! Everyone will have fun posing for a photo on the Red Carpet with their favorite "stars" on hand that night!

There will also be an array of raffle prizes to bid on as well as swag bags filled with entertainment passes, gift certificates and other goodies to take home.

Tickets are $25 in advance if purchased online by Saturday, February 24th! After the 24th, tickets will be $35 per person at the door. Admission includes an array of beverages and heavy hors d'oeuvres, featuring cuisine from around the globe. Don't worry, we will have plenty of popcorn and Milk Duds on site as well!

Order online here: An Evening with the Stars To order by mail, please send checks made payable to "NCCF" for $25 per person with the names of attendees on the "memo" line and postmarked by February 20th. Send to:

Silver Spring Town Center Inc.
Silver Spring Civic Building
One Veterans Plaza
Silver Spring, MD 20910

For any questions regarding this event, contact lisa@silverspringtowncenter.com.

All proceeds benefit The National Center for Children and Families, as well as Silver Spring Town Center, Inc.

We hope to see you for "An Evening with the Stars" in our "community living room" on Oscars® Night!

2011 Silver Spring Town Center Awards

2012-02-05T07:46:00.003-05:00

And The Winner Is……

FOR BEST NEW PROGRAM IN ARTS
The Silver Spring Town Center Arts Salon held its inaugural meeting in August 2011. Hosted by local author-singer-songwriter Mary Amato, the SSTCi Arts Salon is held monthly in the Silver Spring Civic Building and attended by authors, playwrights, musicians, photographers and painters.

FOR BEST NEW PROGRAM IN MUSIC
The Town Center Plaza Performances started in April 2011 with the jazz band, Groove Jet, led by SSTCi Board Member Don Berkemeyer. Over the course of the performance season, SSTCi hosted more than 70 acts of all musical genres. Of special note, SSTCi welcomed the Urban Nation Academy of Performing Arts production of “Broadway Meets Hip-Hop” to the Plaza Stage.

FOR BEST NEW PROGRAM IN DANCE
Salsa on the Plaza hosted by Ricardo Loaiza, Executive Director of the After School Dance Program and Altheia Grey-McKensie of the White House Studios. More than 100 people attended the salsa dance classes on the Plaza.

FOR BEST PROGRAM SERVING VETERANS
The 4th Annual “Tribute to America’s Veterans Concert was held on November 11, 2011 in the Great Hall of the Silver Spring Civic Building. This year’s concert, attended by County Executive Isiah Leggett, featured National Endowment of the Arts honoree Warner Williams, and the popular Greater U Street Jazz Collective. Attendees also enjoyed a presentation by the champion salsa team of Albert Einstein High School, Titanes Salsernos. SSTCi honored Vietnam Veterans America, Chapter 641 and Hero Dogs, Inc.

FOR BEST FESTIVAL
The 3rd Annual Silver Spring Blues Festival at Downtown Silver Spring was held in June 2011. The 2011 festival, in partnership with the DC Blues Society, on two stages, featured our first national act, The Kinsey Report, as well as performances from the Archie Edwards Blues Heritage Foundation. Festival sponsors included Comcast, Monument Bank, Anheuser Bush, Barwood Transportation, Lee Development Group, Montgomery Community Television, and the Fenton Street Market.

FOR BEST ACHIEVEMENT IN GOVERNMENT
On September 15, 2011, Silver Spring Town Center, Inc. & Montgomery County Government finalized a Memorandum of Understanding that empowers SSTCi to foster greater community access to the Silver Spring Civic Building and Veterans Plaza, and to provide community-based arts & entertainment programming.

FOR BEST NEW TALENT
In, 2011, SSTCi welcomed its new Executive Director Lisa Martin, and new Board Members, Gloria Bonilla, Dr. Rickey Payton, Sr., and Lorrie Knight-Majors.

Visit our blog at www.silverspringtowncenter.blogspot.com, follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/sstowncenter or on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/groups/8305814081/

"An Evening with the Stars" Oscars Night, Sunday, February 26th!

2012-01-17T10:42:00.006-05:00

Expanding Community Access at the Silver Spring Civic Building - Statement of Alan Bowser, President, Silver Spring Town Center, January 12, 2011

2012-01-12T23:32:00.003-05:00

Statement of Alan Bowser
Silver Spring Town Center, Inc.
County Executive’s Budget Forum
Silver Spring Civic Building
January 12, 2012

Thank you for the opportunity to present our testimony this evening on the County’s FY13 budget.

My name is Alan Bowser. I am President of the Silver Spring Town Center, Inc., a community-based 501c3 non-profit organization that was created to facilitate community access and provide arts & entertainment programming in this building and on Veterans Plaza. I am proud to represent our distinguished Board of Directors who has been working hard for years to promote Silver Spring, our local cultures, and grow this important community resource. I am very pleased to present to you tonight our new Executive Director, Lisa Martin, who manages SSTCi’s day-to-day operations.

2011 was a great year for the Silver Spring and the Silver Spring Town Center, Inc. In addition to producing our 3rd Annual Silver Spring Blues Festival and a very successful Veterans Tribute Concert (which benefited two important Montgomery County non-profit organizations), we inaugurated the popular Plaza Performances series with over 7o acts, started a monthly SSTCi Arts Salon, and expanded our cooperation with the local businesses, the Fenton Street Market, the Office of Community Engagement, the Montgomery County Commission on Veterans Affairs, and the Office of Community Use of Public Facilities. Importantly, we also signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Montgomery County to help provide exciting community-based programming for the Silver Spring Civic Building and Veterans Plaza.

When SSTCi was created, its founders had a vision of the new Silver Spring Civic Building and Veterans Plaza being the community’s new “living room,” following the demolition of the historic Armory.

The founders envisioned a public space that would be used everyday by our neighbors for community meetings, performances, ceremonies, and other purposes. SSTCi is working hard to make their vision a reality.

We hope that, in your new budget, you will do several things to benefit our Silver Spring neighbors, and the Silver Spring Civic Building and Veterans Plaza

First, we ask that the community’s access to the Building be expanded. We would like to see the Building stay open longer in the evenings—it currently closes at 6 pm. Expanding the hours of operation would allow more community groups to use their public space. And, presently, many members of the community who work during the day cannot take advantage of this beautiful facility in the evenings without paying special fees to Montgomery County.

Similarly, we believe that the facility should be more accessible to the community on weekends. Community groups and people who work should be able to take advantage of this public building—its gallery, atrium and meeting rooms—on Saturdays and Sundays, without paying special fees. We also believe that there should be access to the restrooms for visitors to the Plaza on weekends.

Second, we would like for Montgomery County to consider lowering the rental fees, generally, and eliminating the ancillary fees that residents need to pay to use space in the evening hours. If the building was regularly open during the evenings to 9 pm on weekdays, there would be no need to charge special fees for security and housekeeping. We’ve received comments that these fees are cost-prohibitive to some smaller community organizations who would like to meet in the Civic Building in the evening.

Third, we would like to see a substantial increase in the County’s target for community programming at the Silver Spring Civic Building. Currently, at twenty percent, we would like to see a much higher target for community use.

Finally, a few years ago, the Executive’s office recommended that SSTCi be supported through a significant one-year grant that would help us with staffing, programming and development work. While that grant, at that time, was not supported by County Council staff and not made, we hope that you would consider a similar budget request for the upcoming fiscal year. At a minimum, we hope that you will include some funds in the budget that will help the Silver Spring Town Center, Inc. to continue to provide community-based arts & entertainment on Veterans Plaza and in the Civic Building. We have important work to do and we request this promised support from the County.

All of these things would help us to realize the promises made to the Silver Spring community during this period of revitalization.

Thank you for the opportunity to present our views about the FY13 Montgomery County Budget.

Eric Maring at the Silver Spring Town Center Arts Salon, January 19, Noon to 1 pm.

2012-01-09T08:46:00.001-05:00

Guest Artist: Eric Maring
Topic: Keeping it Fresh

How do you keep your art fresh?

GUEST ARTIST: Eric Maring is a music teacher, a performing songwriter, a dance caller, and an early childhood music specialist. He has also spent a large part of his time in India where he learned to play tabla (Indian percussion). He currently teaches in three pre-schools - at Kids Are Us in Anacostia, D.C. for Levine School of Music's outreach program, at the University of Maryland’s Center for Young Children, and at the National Archives pre-school. He also performs in festivals and elementary schools, teaches guitar and piano to young musicians, calls school and community dances, and holds weekly early childhood music classes for children and parents through the College Park Arts Exchange. Most importantly, he’s the proud father of 7-year-old Leo and 2-year old Julian.

Who’s invited: Fine artists, filmmakers, writers, musicians, photographers, graphic designers, playwrights, poets, and anyone interested in the creative process.

What to bring: Ideas, questions, stories, business cards for networking, and a brown bag lunch and/or drink, if desired.

Where to show up: Silver Spring Civic Building; Silver Spring, MD 20910. We’ll meet in the Colesville Room, 2nd floor. The Civic Building is the new building across from the Majestic Movie Theater, on Ellsworth between Fenton and Cedar. Most meters on the street are one hour only; To mapquest, I suggest you use the address for the Town Square Garage (Garage 61) 801 Ellsworth Dr, Silver Spring, MD 20910, which is right across the Street.

What is a salon: An Italian invention of the 16th century, a salon is a gathering of people who are invited by a host to enjoy the exchange of creative energy. The goal of The SSTC Arts Salon is to encourage the cross-pollination of ideas and inspiration among artists of all disciplines, to promote networking, and to alleviate artistic isolation.

How to RSPV and/or receive notices about upcoming salons: Please join the FB page and reply to the event at: http://www.facebook.com/groups/111769958927685/ OR email rsvp to info@maryamato.com.

Each salon will have a different topic and will feature a guest artist who will begin the conversation.

HOST: Mary Amato (Host) is an author, poet, songwriter, musician, and playwright. info@maryamato.com; http://www.maryamato.com/

Silver Spring nonprofit director brings international experience - Gazette

2012-01-04T10:02:00.002-05:00

Silver Spring nonprofit director brings international experience

Published: Tuesday, January 3, 2012

by Kristi Tousignant, Staff Writer

Silver Spring Town Center, Inc.’s new executive director has helped organize festivals in Estonia and Ireland, international experiences she hopes to draw on for Silver Spring.

Lisa Martin, 44, became the first executive director for Silver Spring Town Center, Inc., a nonprofit organization that coordinates events on Silver Spring’s Veterans Plaza, including the popular Blues Festival.

“This was like a dream job for me,” she said. “I love creating memories and experiences in people’s lives through the arts.”

Martin became executive director Nov. 22 and since has started reaching out to the Silver Spring community.

“[Martin’s] a tremendous optimist and, for her, the glass is always half full and she sees the sunny side and she brings out the best in people,” said Alan Bowser, president of Silver Spring Town Center, Inc.

Since its creation in 2004, Silver Spring Town Center, Inc. has been run by a board, Bowser said. Board members divide the duties of organizing plaza events, communications, and fundraising. While most of the organization’s revenue comes from fundraising, Bowser declined to provide details about the organization’s budget or revenue.

The nonprofit sprang up during the redevelopment of Silver Spring as a way to ensure Veterans Plaza would be a community-focused space, Bowser said.

“Having a full-time executive director will let us act more as a governing board and bring a focus to fundraising activities as well as community outreach,” Bowser said.

The group organizes weekly performances and hosts monthly arts discussions and annual events like the Silver Spring Blues Festival and the Veterans Tribute Concert.

Martin has worked on many festivals, she said, an activity she finds more gratifying than any other job.“These types of events end up standing out in people’s memories,” she said.

She has worked on the International VSA Festival at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C., which hosts visual and performing arts by people with disabilities. She has also worked on the Smithsonian Folklife Festival in Washington, D.C.

“We think Lisa has a great sensitivity to the different cultures that make up our Silver Spring community,” Bowser said. “We are excited about the festival experience she brings to Silver Spring Town Center.”

Originally from San Diego, Martin attended San Diego State University, achieving bachelor’s degrees in cultural anthropology and journalism. Bowser declined to say what Martin will be paid.

Afterward, she got a job working at the San Diego Opera in the public relations and marketing department.

A few years later, Martin joined the Peace Corps and travelled to Estonia, where she taught English from 1996 to 1998. During the summer, she helped organize the Pärnu International Documentary and Anthropology Film Festival.

In 1999, Martin moved to the Washington, D.C., region and worked as a researcher for a museum consulting firm.

She went on to get her master’s degree in performing arts management from American University, writing her thesis on an art festival in Ireland, living there in 2000 to research the paper.

A few years ago, Martin started her own business, researching and evaluating events and festivals. With the struggling economy, the business was not doing that well, Martin said. While keeping an eye out for new jobs, she stumbled across the ad for the opening at Silver Spring Town Center, Inc.
Martin said she hopes to showcase performers from all around world. One of her main goals is to increase communication between the nonprofit and the surrounding community and businesses.

“Even just locally, we have such a diverse array of people in the community,” Martin said. “We are kind of building everything from the ground up.”
ktousignant@gazette.net

© 2012 Post-Newsweek Media, Inc./Gazette.Net

Give the Gift That Warms the Heart, Stirs the Creative Spirit & Brings Our Community Closer Together

2011-12-20T10:39:00.003-05:00

Happy Holidays from Silver Spring Town Center Inc.

Dear Friend of SSTCi:

This holiday season, we hope you will give the gift that warms the heart, stirs the creative spirit, and brings our community together.

You may have enjoyed one of the over 70 diverse arts and cultural events the Silver Spring Town Center, Inc. presented this past year, including the Silver Spring Blues Festival, Plaza Performances and the "Tribute To America's Veterans" Concert. We were pleased to showcase many community groups like the Greater U Street Jazz Collective, Strings4Joy, Contradiction Dance, and the Titanes Salseros, the champion salsa dance ensemble from Albert Einstein High School. It is our goal in 2012 to continue engaging members of our community in making the Civic Building and Veterans Plaza our "community living room" and community performance space. While we have presented hundreds of visual and performing artists from our community and beyond, we aim to do even more as we continue to grow.

Your tax-deductible contribution today directly helps to support our mission to provide a vibrant, inclusive and engaging community gathering place that enriches the lives of residents throughout the Greater Silver Spring area. In fact, 100% of your donation goes directly towards showcasing local and international talent from a variety of creative disciplines, while at the same time building community and celebrating our diversity in the heart of Downtown Silver Spring!

Please click here to visit our fundraising page on Razoo, and make a small donation of $10 or more to ensure a successful 2012.

DONATE NOW!

Please help us reach our $10,000 goal by the end of the year so that we may continue to provide a vibrant, inclusive and engaging community gathering place-a "community living room"-- that enriches the lives of residents throughout the Greater Silver Spring area. Click here to donate online

DONATE BY CHECK

Alternatively you may mail your contribution to Silver Spring Town Center, Silver Spring Civic Building, One Veterans Plaza, Silver Spring, MD 20910 with checks payable to "SSTCi."

We thank you in advance for supporting SSTCi and our vision of a creative and vibrant community for all.

Warmest Regards,

LISA MARTIN
Executive Director
Silver Spring Town Center, Inc.
lisa@silverspringtowncenter.com
www.silverspringtowncenter.com

Emmett Overstreet, Earl Williams & Paul Young on Silver Spring's Veterans Plaza - Silver Spring Town Center Video Clip of the Day!

2011-12-20T10:35:00.001-05:00

Here's Comes the Sun - Silver Spring Town Center Video Clip of the Day!

2011-12-15T09:28:00.004-05:00

Dimensionz of Bluz has been playing together for a year and live up to their name. Each of the members brings his own style of blues to synthesize a unique sound. Mike Baytop has a long history in the Washington area as a Piedmont or country blues musician. Tim Nolte comes from the Midwest and brings a Chicago / rock style of blues. Willie Leebel has long been a student of the delta style of blues. And Marcus Childs-Moore has a strong background in jazz providing an additional element to the group. Plan to hear some blues standards performed in an inimitable way. Here, Tim Nolte plays "Here Comes The Sun."

Poet Laura Shovan presents at the December Silver Spring Arts Salon, Thursday, December 15 at noon. Free

2011-12-15T09:18:00.003-05:00

Topic: The Mask

Join poet Laura Shovan in a conversation about how artist of all disciplines use personae in their work. How can taking on “the mask” of a character or voice help us express deeper truths in our art?

Who’s invited: Fine artists, filmmakers, writers, musicians, photographers, graphic designers, playwrights, poets, and anyone interested in the creative process.

What to bring: Ideas, questions, stories, business cards for networking, and a brown bag lunch and/or drink, if desired.

Where to show up: Silver Spring Civic Center Building; One Veterans Plaza, Silver Spring, MD 20910 (We’ll meet in the Colesville Room, 2nd floor. The Civic Building is the new building across from the Majestic Movie Theater, near Ellsworth and Fenton.)

Guest Artist: Laura Shovan is editor of the art and literary journal Little Patuxent Review. Her chapbook, Mountain, Log, Salt and Stone, won the inaugural Harriss Poetry Prize in 2010. She is the editor of Life in Me Like Grass on Fire: Love Poems (MWA Books), featuring 50 Maryland poets. Laura is currently co-editing Voices Fly: An Anthology of Exercises and Poems from the MSAC Artist-in-Residence Program for the Maryland State Arts Council, to be published in 2012.

http://www.facebook.com/events/302833086413712/

This program is a production of the Silver Spring Town Center, Inc.

Visit our blog at www.silverspringtowncenter.blogspot.com, follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/sstowncenter or on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/groups/8305814081/

The Rights of Butterflies

2011-12-12T16:47:00.009-05:00

On Monday, December 5, Ghandi Brigade presented the new documentary film "The Rights of Butterflies" which tells the story of an undocumented college student named Katya in Montgomery County and her struggle to fund and continue her college education due to her legal status.

In the documentary, we learn about Katya’s personal sacrifices in coming to the United States, her transition into the Silver Spring Area, where she constructs a sense of home, and her perseverance to achieve her goals and dreams for a better life. The title of the film ponders a world where people could have the same rights as butterflies moving freely across borders with no need for legal status or documentation of any kind.

Over 200 attendees gathered in the Great Hall of the Civic Building for a public screening and post-film discussion. The subject of the film Katya was present along with filmmaker Laura Goya, who is a student of Montgomery College,

This event was co-sponsored by the Gilchrist Center and the Silver Spring Regional Center.

To learn more about the film and event, please call Gandhi Brigade at 301.588.1399 or visit their website at www.gandhibrigade.org/content/rights-butterflies

Strings for Joy! perform on Silver Spring's Veterans Plaza - Video Clip of the Day

2011-12-07T13:02:00.001-05:00

The performers are Alexandre Paintsil, Jepthalyne Senas, Kevin Gopala-Rao, Stephanie Birmingham, Aniza Moore, Breanna Roth, Evonne Baasch, violins and Dr. Ekatrina DiPinto, cello.

Silver Spring Town Center Remembers Our History

2011-12-05T08:24:00.001-05:00

Por primera vez en una tarima por cultivar sus raices - Univision

2011-12-01T08:10:00.000-05:00

12th Annual MCPS Latin Dance Competition - A Great Success!

2011-11-29T09:24:00.006-05:00

Congratulations to the After School Dance Fund, Inc. and supporters of the 12 Annual MCPS Latin Dance Competition that was held Monday, November 28, 2011 at Stathmore Hall. Hundreds of MCPS students, teachers, parents, friends and fans gathered to see talented dancers from many of Montgomery County's public high schools. Participating schools included Blake HS, Clarksburg HS, Einstein HS, Gaithersburg HS, Rocville HS, Seneca Valley HS, Walter Johnson HS and Watkins Mill HS. Teams competed in eight divisions: Salsa, Cha-Cha, Bachata, Merengue, Parent/Student, Alumni, Jack-n-Jill, and Best-in-Show.

The After School Dance Fund (ASDF) is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization created in 2010 in order to offer a meaningful afterschool experience to all Montgomery County Public Schools’ Latin dance club participants. These programs promote cross cultural awareness; bridging the gap between communities, strengthening family values and empower students of all backgrounds, to share their heritage and culture which allows them to communicate better in school and at home, and continue their personal and educational growth in order to become healthy and positive members of our global society. For information about the After School Dance Fund, visit their website at http://afterschooldancefund.org/

Lisa Martin Named Executive Director of Silver Spring Town Center, Inc.

2011-11-23T21:38:00.007-05:00

The Silver Spring Town Center, Inc. Board of Directors is pleased to announce the appointment of Lisa Martin as Executive Director of Silver Spring Town Center, Inc.

“We are thrilled that Lisa Martin will be joining SSTCi as our Executive Director,” said Alan Bowser, President of the Silver Spring Town Center, Inc. Board of Directors. “Lisa Martin shares our vision of celebrating diversity and creating community, and has the professional experience to creatively advance our agenda to promote cultural understanding through community arts & entertainment programming.”

Ms. Martin has over 10 years of experience working with arts and cultural events primarily in the Nation’s Capital, including the Smithsonian Folklife Festival as well as a wide variety of embassy events. Having worked on numerous arts festivals and other large community-based events, both domestically and abroad, she is skilled in all areas of program development, marketing and promotion, membership development, as well as event management. She also has a strong background in volunteer management having recruited, trained and managed hundreds of volunteers for city-wide events, including the 2004 International VSA Arts Festival, a four-day multi-arts event which brought together over 1000 visual and performing artists with a wide array of mental and physical disabilities from all corners of the globe.

For the last several years, she has managed the DC-Brasilia Partners of the Americas’ Lecture Series at George Washington University, which presents artists, scholars and other experts on Brazilian arts and culture. Previously, she managed the National Peace Corps Association’s Embassies Program, which featured an array of speakers and performing artists representing a variety of cultures and disciplines. In addition to this experience, she has an extensive background doing qualitative research and evaluation for museums, science centers, art galleries, historical sites and other places of learning.

"I am very excited to be working with the Silver Spring Town Center, Inc. and helping to create a vibrant and welcoming place where the arts and culture can shine, said Martin." "I look forward to collaborating with local visual and performing artists, area businesses, other non-profits, and members of our community to ensure that the Civic Building and Veterans Plaza serve as a real 'community living room' where everyone is always welcome."

Ms. Martin served as a US Peace Corps Volunteer in Estonia. She holds a Masters Degree in Performing Arts Management, a B.S. in Cultural Anthropology and a B.A. in Journalism.

The Silver Spring Town Center, Inc. has been very active in promoting the arts and humanities in Silver Spring and in greater Montgomery County. It has organized the very successful Silver Spring Blues Festivals at Downtown Silver Spring which have entertained thousands of neighbors and visitors, the annual benefit concerts in support of Montgomery County’s veterans, community dance classes, and its popular Plaza Performances on Veterans Plaza. This year, alone, SSTCi’s Plaza Performances have brought more than 50 free musical acts to the public, featuring jazz, blues, folk, classical, and rock music.

SSTCi is a 501(c)3 organization. The members of the SSTCi Board of Directors are: Alan Bowser, Aurelia Martin, Beth Wong, David Fogel, Don Berkemeyer, Graciela Jaschek, Harriet Weil, Jack Hewitt, Jon Lourie, Jose Dominguez, Mark Kozaki, Mary Ann Zimmerman, Reemberto Rodriguez, Sheryl Chapman, and Wanda Whiteside.

For more information, please visit SSTCi’s website at www.silverspringtowncenter.com, its blog at www.silverspringtowncenter.blogspot.com, on Facebook at www.facebook.com/silverspringtowncenter or on Twitter at www.twitter.com/sstowncenter

Silver Spring Town Center Arts Salon - October

2011-11-18T13:15:00.006-05:00

The featured speaker at the Silver Spring Town Center, Inc.'s October Arts Salon was artist Rosana Azar, who discussed "color." For more information about Rosana, check out her website at http://www.rosanaazar.com/rosanas_studio.html

SSTCi's Arts Salon is held monthly in the Silver Spring Civic Building. For more information about the Arts Salon, visit our Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/groups/111769958927685/

Titanes Salseros

2011-11-17T09:21:00.003-05:00

At the Tribute to America's Veterans Concert, there was a special performance by Titanes Salseros from the LASU group of Albert Einstein HS, under the direction of Mrs. Paula Pero and Alisa Bernstein.

Silver Spring Town Center Inc. Board Members at the Veterans Tribute Concert

2011-11-17T09:16:00.003-05:00

Silver Spring Town Center Board Members at Veterans Day

2011-11-17T09:10:00.003-05:00

SSTCi Board Member Jack Hewitt - Veterans Day

2011-11-17T09:05:00.001-05:00

2011 Silver Spring Veterans Concert: Tremendous Success!

2011-11-12T10:34:00.006-05:00

The 4th Annual Tribute to America's Veterans Concert held in the Great Hall of the Silver Spring Civic Building was a tremendous success! Over 200 people enjoyed wonderful performances by Piedmont Blues artist, Warner Williams, and the Greater U Street Jazz Collective.

Montgomery County Executive Isiah Leggett, Maryland State Senator Jamie Raskin and Montgomery County Councilmember March Elrich were among the many distinguished guests during the evening program.

County Executive Leggett presented Certificates of Recognition to singer-songwriter Warner Williams, and Hero Dogs, Inc. and Vietnam Veterans of America, Chapter 641--two important veterans-serving organizations in Montgomery County.

We were pleased to welcome many members of our Veterans Concert Host Committee--Alan Friedman, Althea Grey-McKenzie, Bill Gray, Charlotte Coffield, Don Slater, Evan Glass, Gloria Bonilla, Jamie Raskin, Joyce Ettingoff, Karen Goozner, Kathleen Samiy, Lorrie Knight-Major, Michael Gonzales, Naomi Bloch, Norma Wilson, Ricardo Loaiza, Richard Jaeggi, Rickey Payton, Sr., Sandra Fair, Sharon Dooley, Ted & Carol Power, and Woody Brosnan.

We had a record number of SSTCi Board members attend our 4th Annual Veterans Concert--Don Berkemeyer, Alan Bowser, Sheryl Brissett-Chapman, Jose Dominguez, David Fogel, Graciela Jaschek, Mark Kozaki, Aurelia Martin, Harriet Weil, Mary Ann Zimmerman, and Reemberto Rodriguez.

The Veterans Tribute Concert was a benefit program for Montgomery County's veterans-serving organizations--Hero Dogs, Inc, and Vietnam Veterans of America. The public is invited to support these organizations by contributing online at http://www.silverspringtowncenter.com/veterans-concert-2011/

Warner Williams, Greater U Street Jazz Collective to perform at Silver Spring’s Tribute to American Veterans Concert, Friday, November 11, 2011

2011-11-11T07:43:00.002-05:00

Please join your neighbors at this year’s “Tribute to America’s Veterans” Concert in the Great Hall of the Silver Spring Civic Building.

The Concert featuring Warner Williams—this year’s National Endowment for the Arts Heritage Fellow—and the Greater U Street Jazz Collective—will be held on Friday, November 11, 2011 at 7 pm in the Great Hall of the Silver Spring Civic Building. There will be a reception with light refreshments from 6 to 7 pm in the Civic Building Atrium.

Tickets are only $20 and the proceeds will benefit two great Montgomery County veterans-serving organizations: Hero Dogs, Inc. and Vietnam Veterans of America, Chapter 641.

For more information and to purchase tickets online, visit http://www.silverspringtowncenter.com/veterans-concert-2011/ Tickets can also be purchased at the door.

Warner Williams is one of America’s greatest acoustic blues singer/songwriters, recently acknowledged by the National Endowment of the Arts as a national treasure in traditional American music.

The Greater U Street Jazz Collective is a Washington DC based jazz collective that is inspired by the great jazz tradition of the historic Greater U Street section of the city. In the days during segregation, jazz music from the likes of Duke Ellington, Jelly Roll Morton, Miles Davis, Charlie Parker and John Coltrane was played in the jazz clubs that lined the streets of U Street.

Many thanks to our 2011 Veterans Tribute Concert Host Committee for their generous support. Alan Friedman–Althea Grey-McKenzie–Bill Gray–Bruce Lee–Busy Graham–Caren Madsen–Carole Barth–Charlotte Coffield–Dale Tibbitts–Don Hague–Don Slater–Honorable Duchy Trachtenberg–Evan Glass–Gloria Bonilla–Gregory Hamilton–Jackie Greenbaum–Honorable Jamie Raskin–Jennifer Chambers–Jim Zepp–Jonathan Bernstein–Joyce Ettingoff–Karen Goozner–Kathleen Samiy–Kathy Stevens–Lorrie Knight-Major–Michael Gonzalez–Mike Diegel–Naomi Bloch–Norma Wilson–Ricardo Loaiza–Richard Jaeggi–Rickey Payton, Sr.–Sandra Fair–Sharon Dooley–Ted & Carol Power–Honorable Tom Hucker–Tony Hausner–Victor Salazar–William Smith, Jr.–Yvette Butler–Woody Brosnan

The Tribute to America’s Veterans Concert is a production of the Silver Spring Town Center, Inc. Visit our blog at www.silverspringtowncenter.blogspot.com, follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/sstowncenter or on Facebook http://www.facebook.com/groups/8305814081/

Make an Online Contribution to Silver Spring Town Center, Inc.

2011-11-10T08:16:00.005-05:00

Thanks to everyone who contributed to Silver Spring Town Center during the first annual "Give to the Max" Day in metro Washington.

The Silver Spring Town Center was proud to participate in this very successful event.

Thanks to Razoo, 17,839 people gave "to the Max" on November 9th! Their incredible generosity helped raise $1,886,584 and strengthen the nonprofits who make our community a great place to live and work.

You can still make a tax-deductible contribution to Silver Spring Town Center, by click on this link: http://www.razoo.com/story/Silverspring

Your support is welcome, your generosity is appreciated and will strengthen SSTCi's many community-serving programs.

Give to the Max, Support Silver Spring Town Center

2011-11-09T06:02:00.005-05:00

On Wednesday, November 9, from 12:01am - 11:59am, residents of Maryland, DC and Virginia will join together online to donate and raise millions of dollars for local nonprofits, as part of the 1st annual Give to the Max Day.

Dear Friend of the Silver Spring Town Center,

Silver Spring Town Center, Inc. has joined up with the "Give to the Max" campaign. The goal is to get thousands of local residents to support their favorite regional charity, raising millions of dollars in donations and grants in just 24 hours.

As part of Give to the Max Day, nonprofits can earn a share of $125,000 in cash awards. There are awards for organizations that earn the most donations, as well as awards for organizations receiving the most individual donations within each hour from 2 PM to midnight. There are even awards for 12th and 44th places!

You can check out our page and what your donations could go towards by visiting http://www.razoo.com/story/silverspring. Of course, any donation you make will be appreciated and will help fund a variety of performance and education goals.

Make sure to become a fan on our "Give to the Max" page, and to post our "Give to the Max" link (http://give2max.razoo.com/story/silverspring) on your FaceBook and Twitter pages - and talk it up among your friends and colleagues ... and don't forget to donate!

Thank you for your support and generosity.

Silver Spring Town Center, Inc.

Warner Williams, Greater U Street Jazz Collective to perform at Silver Spring’s Tribute to American Veterans Concert, Friday, November 11, 2011

2011-10-26T10:39:00.004-04:00

Please join your neighbors at this year’s “Tribute to America’s Veterans” Concert in the Great Hall of the Silver Spring Civic Building.

The Concert featuring Warner Williams—this year’s National Endowment for the Arts Heritage Fellow—and the Greater U Street Jazz Collective—will be held on Friday, November 11, 2011 at 7 pm in the Great Hall of the Silver Spring Civic Building. There will be a reception with light refreshments from 6 to 7 pm in the Civic Building Atrium.

Tickets are only $20 and the proceeds will benefit two great Montgomery County veterans-serving organizations: Hero Dogs, Inc. and Vietnam Veterans of America, Chapter 641.

For more information and to purchase tickets online, visit http://www.silverspringtowncenter.com/veterans-concert-2011/ Tickets can also be purchased at the door.

Many thanks to our 2011 Veterans Tribute Concert Host Committee for their generous support. Alan Friedman–Althea Grey-McKenzie–Bill Gray–Bruce Lee–Busy Graham–Caren Madsen–Carole Barth–Charlotte Coffield–Dale Tibbitts–Don Hague–Don Slater–Honorable Duchy Trachtenberg–Evan Glass–Gloria Bonilla–Gregory Hamilton–Jackie Greenbaum–Honorable Jamie Raskin–Jennifer Chambers–Jim Zepp–Jonathan Bernstein–Joyce Ettingoff–Karen Goozner–Kathleen Samiy–Kathy Stevens–Lorrie Knight-Major–Michael Gonzalez–Mike Diegel–Naomi Bloch–Norma Wilson–Ricardo Loaiza–Richard Jaeggi–Rickey Payton, Sr.–Sandra Fair–Sharon Dooley–Ted & Carol Power–Honorable Tom Hucker–Tony Hausner–Victor Salazar–William Smith, Jr.–Yvette Butler–Woody Brosnan

The Tribute to America’s Veterans Concert is a production of the Silver Spring Town Center, Inc. Visit our blog at www.silverspringtowncenter.blogspot.com, follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/sstowncenter or on Facebook http://www.facebook.com/groups/8305814081/

SSTCi Announces the 2011 Veterans Tribute Concert Host Committee

2011-10-25T14:16:00.006-04:00

The Silver Spring Town Center, Inc. is pleased to announce the 2011 Host Committee for the Fourth Annual "A Tribute to America’s Veterans" Concert.

The Concert featuring Warner Williams, NEA National Heritage Fellow, and the Greater U Street Jazz Collective will be held on Friday, November 11, 2011 at 7 pm in the Great Hall of the Silver Spring Civic Building.

For more information and to purchase tickets online, visit http://www.silverspringtowncenter.com/veterans-concert-2011/

The 2011 Veterans Tribute Concert Host Committee.

Alan Friedman
Althea Grey-McKenzie
Bill Gray
Bruce Lee
Busy Graham
Caren Madsen
Carole Barth
Charlotte Coffield
Dale Tibbitts
Don Hague
Don Slater
Honorable Duchy Trachtenberg
Evan Glass
Gloria Bonilla
Gregory Hamilton
Jackie Greenbaum
Honorable Jamie Raskin
Jennifer Chambers
Jim Zepp
Jonathan Bernstein
Joyce Ettingoff
Karen Goozner
Kathleen Samiy
Kathy Stevens
Lorrie Knight-Major
Michael Gonzalez
Mike Diegel
Naomi Bloch
Norma Wilson
Ricardo Loaiza
Richard Jaeggi
Rickey Payton, Sr.
Sandra Fair
Sharon Dooley
Ted & Carol Power
Honorable Tom Hucker
Tony Hausner
Victor Salazar
Williams Smith, Jr.
Yvette Butler
Woody Brosnan

The Tribute to America’s Veterans Concert is a production of the Silver Spring Town Center, Inc. Visit our blog at www.silverspringtowncenter.blogspot.com, follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/sstowncenter or on Facebook http://www.facebook.com/groups/8305814081/

The Plaza Performances - Thank You!

2011-10-13T16:03:00.012-04:00

Thank you!

During the 2011 season, the Silver Spring Town Center, Inc. was pleased to bring exciting community-based arts & entertainment programming to Veterans Plaza. We hosted over 50 performances, with more than 200 performers for thousands of Silver Spring residents & visitors. We brought jazz, blues, rock, folk, country & western, rhythm & blues, reggae, hip-hop and classical music, along with modern dance, to our "community living room."

We also produced over 300 videos of these Plaza Performances which are available on YouTube at http://www.youtube.com/user/TheTownCentre

Plaza Performances was a production of the Silver Spring Town Center, Inc. Visit our blog at www.silverspringtowncenter.blogspot.com, follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/sstowncenter or on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/groups/8305814081/

Thanks to all of our performers and thanks to Silver Spring for being such a great audience.

2nd Story Band—Meagan Lane,Geoff de Mers

Archie Edwards Blues Ensemble—Chris Anderson, Mike Baytop, Eleanor Ellis, Jeff Hawkins, Willie Leebel, Adam Oppenheim

BanjerDan—Dan Manzur

Blues Ramblers—Slim Fellows, Anton Hannsman, Gary Venable, Alan Gramley

Boomerang—John Brown, Cap Pendleton, Hank Burnett, Gary Garvin

CaShandra J.—CaShandra J., Aaron Myers, Percy White, Warren "Trae" Crudup

Cloud 9—Michael "TK" Akinlosotu, Adam Dunbar, Jason Zamora, Jonathan Livas, Timm Cruz, Jordan McRae

Club 209—Felix Contreras,David Schulman

Contradiction Dance—Eleni Grove, Carlos Bustamante, Ben Drexler, Alison Waldman, Shelley Alinas, Makeyda Hilliard, Erica Chamblee, Lyndsey Pressley, Matina Phillips, Anneliese Parisi, Dani Quirion

Cooking with Gas—Jim Bunch, Marcus Childs Moore, David Oziel, David Rothman, Bob Sherman

Dimensionz of Bluz—Mike Baytop, Willie Leebel, Marcus Childs-Moore

Fast Eddie & the Slowpokes—Larry Younkins, Charles Solomon, Scott Chadwick, Ed Crowley

Gina DeSimone & the Moaners—Gina DeSimone, Pat Quinn

Groove Jet—Don Berkemeyer ,Garrett Green,Mark Frawley,Greg Brown, Bruce Krohmer

Harmonica Blu Xpress—Howard Hernstadt, Dave Myre, Randy Pittman, James Cooke

Jazz Stimulus Project—Chip Smoley, Guy Stevens, Alan Kirschenbaum, Franklin Wade, Dayton Eckerson

Luisa & Her Imaginary Orchestra—Luisa Rose, Ken Sleeman

Machines on Vacation—Ethan Balis, Melanie Miller, Theresa Schlafly, Kellie MacDonald, Amanda Melara, Rochelle Carpenter, Jodi Balis

Mary Amato & Bill Williams—Bill Williams, Mary Amato

Midnight Sun—Nathan Foley, Miles Lieder, Jonathan Lieder, Fred Lieder

Red Line Quintet—Peter Leonard, Noah Maruyama, Grayson Flood, Matt Volk

Second String Bluegrass Band,Emmett Overstreet, Earl Williams,Paul Young

Snakehead Run—Denny Buck, Mark Casale, Jim Bunch

Stealing Liberty—Jeff Snyder, Tracy Beer, Trevor Specht, Leah DeLano, Bill Cahill, Todd Newell, Jeff DLB

Strings for Joy—Alexandre Paintsil, Jepthalyne Senas, Kevin Gopala-Rao, Stephanie Birmingham, Aniza Moore, Breanna Roth, Evonne Baasch, Dr. Ekatrina DiPinto

SwagFunk—Deirdra Harris, Daryl Braxton, "Funk Master" Mike Sutton,"Smokin" Al Warren, "The Funk Doctor" Scott Eister, Brian A.C. Williams

The Eclectiks—Mike Cohen, Regina Koenig, Charles Tolbert, Frances Eargle, Simona Patange, Pete Stover, Steve Soroka, Gary Daum

The Greater U Street Jazz Collective—Art Cobb, Cashandra Bacon, Thomas View, Peter Frassrand, Russell Carter, Carl Macintyre

The Newports—Blaine Smith, Cal Linley, Mike Henley, Mike DeGraba, Rob Dyer, Debbie Halvorsen, Arlene Jaye, Becky Briggs

The Social Ramble—David Byrd, Jim Lande, Howard Moss

Time2Go—Joey Barnet, Jeremy Gordon, Doug Kahn, Ian Schwenke

Traveling Bluejays—Arlene Jaye, George Hardman, Karen Hardman, Rick Kanton, Michelle Murray, Joyce Ettingoff

Unruly Blues Band—Saskia Van Oot, Lance Nuckolls, Dale Hayman, Robert Gullace, Tony Byrd

Warner Williams—Warner Williams, Joyce Ettingoff

Wendy and The Lost Boys—Wendy Lanxner, Rob Smith, David Uffelman, Steve Wilmarth

Wharf Rats—Robert Gersten, Lenny Dinerman, Eric "Dawg" Metzman, Eric "Huck" Huckleberry, "Cosmic" Carl Baer Schwartzman

Many thanks also to Don Muller, Chris Richardson, Mike Nicholas, Rickey Payton, Reemberto Rodriguez, Jewru Bandeh, Hannah McCann, Chantelle Stewart, Howard Hernstadt, Kelly Mayfield, Carlos Garcia, Capital Accord Chorus, the Urban Nation Academy for the Performing Arts, the Next Level Band Camp, Jazs, and the Arts & Music Ministries of Jesus House.

And very special thanks to Alan Bowser, Don Berkemeyer and Joyce Ettingoff for their efforts in making the Silver Spring Town Center, Inc. Plaza Performances an enormous success!

Fast Eddie & the Slowpokes Play Silver Spring's Veterans Plaza

2011-10-11T14:25:00.003-04:00

Felix Contreras and David Schulman on Veterans Plaza!

2011-10-11T12:36:00.001-04:00

Enjoy the Felix Contreras Latin Jazz Trio on Veterans Plaza, Sunday, October 9, 2011 at 3 pm, Free!

2011-10-07T12:40:00.004-04:00

Please join us for another exciting Plaza Performance as we welcome the Felix Contreras Latin Jazz Trio to Silver Spring's Veterans Plaza. The performance, Sunday, October 9, 2011 at 3 pm is free!

Felix Contreras (drums/percussion) has shared the stage with many of the top names in Latin jazz, particularly during his days in California. More recently, he's recorded with Poncho Sanchez and Dave Samuels (Caribbean Jazz Project).

Eddie Eatmon (bass) has toured with the Clovers, and performed jazz around the Washington DC area for many years. A student of the late Keter Betts, he performs most weekends at 701 on Pennsylvania Avenue.

David Schulman (violin/percussion) began performing professionally as a teenager, and has performed solo and as a member of jazz, tango, klezmer, cowpunk, classical, Western Swing, charanga and Cuban son groups, and is a former board member of \the Latin American Folk Institute.

Check them out on the web at http://www.reverbnation.com/felixcontreras

This program is a production of the Silver Spring Town Center, Inc.

Visit our blog at www.silverspringtowncenter.blogspot.com, follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/sstowncenter or on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/groups/8305814081/

See our Plaza videos at http://www.youtube.com/user/TheTownCentre

See our Plaza pics at http://www.flickr.com/photos/alanbowser/collections/72157626644003377/

Contradiction Dance Performs "The Present" on Veterans Plaza, 7 pm. Free!

2011-10-06T09:20:00.004-04:00

Athletic, beautiful creatures ‑ the physical embodiment of energy and elegance.

On Veterans Plaza tonight, Contradiction Dance will perform excerpts from their up-coming concert: "The Present," which premier at Round House Theatre Silver Spring Oct 21 & 22. This production is part of Round House’s Silver Spring Series.

Featuring lifts, dives, rolls, spins, and leaps to a conclusion of joy and laughter, The Present is a physical expression of the greatest gift ‑ this moment. The Present is about the simple beauty of everyday objects, expansive elegance, and the athletic prowess of the dancers themselves.

Performers: Eleni Grove, Carlos Bustamante, Ben Drexler, Alison Waldman, Shelley Alinas, Makeyda Hilliard, Erica Chamblee, Lyndsey Pressley, Matina Phillips, Anneliese Parisi, Dani Quirion

Choreography by Kelly Mayfield. Director of Theatre Melissa-Leigh Bustamante

For information about the Round House Theatre performance, call 240.644.1100

Contradiction Dance Performs on Veterans Plaza, Thursday, October 6, 2011 at 7 pm. Free!

2011-10-05T15:17:00.005-04:00

Please join us for another exciting Plaza Performance as we welcome Contradiction Dance back to Veterans Plaza. Contradiction Dance will perform on Thursday, October 6, 2011 at 7 pm. The performance is free!

In residence at Round House Theatre, Contradiction Dance is a place where dance, theatre, and pop culture meet.

The Company:

Creates and presents works that blend several dance forms with multimedia elements, storytelling, and theater

Provides a broad scope of dance and theatre education classes for people of all ages and backgrounds

Engages the community through workshops, performances, residencies, and partnerships

Nurtured on the belief that artists and audience members communicate in a dialogue through the chosen medium, Contradiction Dance fosters discussion, reflection, and change, ultimately creating an exchange between life and dance.

Check them out at http://contradictiondance.com/index.html

This program is a production of the Silver Spring Town Center, Inc.

Visit our blog at www.silverspringtowncenter.blogspot.com, follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/sstowncenter or on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/groups/8305814081/

See our Plaza videos at http://www.youtube.com/user/TheTownCentre

See our Plaza pics at http://www.flickr.com/photos/alanbowser/collections/72157626644003377/

Fast Eddie & the Slowpokes Play Silver Spring's Veterans Plaza, Sunday, October 9, 2011 at 7 pm. Free!

2011-10-05T15:05:00.008-04:00

Please join us for another exciting Plaza Performance as we welcome Fast Eddie & the Slowpokes to the Veterans Plaza Stage. The performance is Sunday, October 9, 2011 at 7 pm. Free!

Fast Eddie & The Slowpokes are guaranteed to get you up on your feet! Their blend of Chicago, West Coast, Swing and Jump Blues peppered with Blue-Eyed Soul serves up a menu to get the joint jumpin'!

Fast Eddie & The Slowpokes are:

Larry Younkins - guitar and vocals
Rick Jones - keyboards and vocals
Charles Solomon - bass
Scott Chadwick - drums
Ed Crowley - harp and vocals

Check them out at http://www.reverbnation.com/fasteddietheslowpokes

This program is a production of the Silver Spring Town Center, Inc.

Visit our blog at www.silverspringtowncenter.blogspot.com, follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/sstowncenter or on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/groups/8305814081/

See our Plaza videos at http://www.youtube.com/user/TheTownCentre

See our Plaza pics at http://www.flickr.com/photos/alanbowser/collections/72157626644003377/

Tiffany Thompson Plays Silver Spring's Veterans Plaza

2011-10-03T11:08:00.003-04:00

Please join us for another exciting Plaza Peformance as we welcome singer-songwriter Tiffany Thompson to Silver Spring's Veterans Plaza. The performance on Tuesday, October 4, 2011 at 7 pm is free!

Washington DC based singer-songwriter Tiffany Thompson’s rich, clear voice brings to life her poetic and personal lyrics, reminding listeners of Colbie Caillat, Priscilla Ahn and Norah Jones. Playing both piano and guitar, Tiffany’s dynamic stage presence and story telling style are gathering her fans of all ages. Her recent concerts credits include opening for the legendary folk-rock band America at The Birchmere in Virginia as well as Mindy Smith at Jammin Java in Virginia. On her spring 2011 album, Tiffany created her 4th album as an acoustic, jazzy collection of colorful pieces that shimmer their way into one’s view of life and love.

The Washington D.C. / northern Virginia area is known for its transient lifestyle and chaotic atmosphere, but singer-songwriter Tiffany Thompson is imparting something more personal, and lasting to its character. While she fits right into eastern-seaboard society by virtue of being well-traveled and savvy, her essential groundedness comes through in her uplifting music and keenly insightful lyrics.

Prior to becoming an Alexandria resident, Thompson called a lot of places home. She was born in Dubuque, Iowa, but lived in Moscow, Russia from age six to eleven. She spent her adolescence in Austin, Texas, and attended Wheaton College, a liberal arts college located outside of Chicago, IL.

In August 2008, Tiffany arrived in the Washington area, and despite a full-time day job, has developed a committed network of fans, fellow-musicians and venues. There is just something about Tiffany’s voice and charming stage presence draws audiences into the performance. Her songs as often have "little journeys" in them. The mood may be one of anxiety or loneliness at the outset of the first verse, but will find its way to hope or affirmation by the conclusion.

Thanks to Tiffany’s tenacious booking, her concert calendar continues to fill up, with coffee house and restaurant shows in Alexandria and Capitol Hill as well as being the host of the monthly open mic at the Fire Flies Restaurant—located in the Del Ray area of VA. Tiffany has garnered positive reviews from a variety of venues.

Most recently the music coordinator for BUZZ Bakery in Alexandria, Patrick Stilwell, stated, “Tiffany Thompson and Danny Schwartz [playing percussion] put on an excellent set. They got our crowd into it; which is hard to do since most of them are so into their laptops they normally don't even look away. Their music was fun and light, perfect for our coffee shop evenings. Would book again and would recommend booking her for yourself.”

From Moscow, Russia to Austin, TX and now Washington, DC, Tiffany's ability to engage her audience and sing with beauty and confidence has won her fans of all ages.

This program is a production of the Silver Spring Town Center, Inc.

Visit our blog at www.silverspringtowncenter.blogspot.com, follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/sstowncenter or on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/groups/8305814081/

See our Plaza videos at http://www.youtube.com/user/TheTownCentre

See our Plaza pics at http://www.flickr.com/photos/alanbowser/collections/72157626644003377/

The Traveling Bluejayes Perform on Silver Spring's Veterans Plaza, Sunday, October 2, 2011 at 4 pm. Free!

2011-09-30T11:48:00.004-04:00

Please join us for another exciting Plaza Performance as we welcome the Traveling Bluejays back to the Plaza Stage. The Bluejays will play on Sunday, October 2, 2011 at 4 pm. It's free!

The Traveling Bluejays is a great band that plays Folk, Rock, Rockabilly, Originals, Blues. The band members are Arlene Jaye, George Hardman, Karen Hardman, Rick Kanton, Michelle Murray, and Joyce Ettingoff. George Hardman, rhythm guitar and vox..they call him Elvis..veteran of many bands in the Washington DC area..loves to do rockabilly and Elvis and keep the audience entertained...Arlene Jaye, vocalist..veteran of many DC bands as a vocalist..also former member of CSA Jamboree...Karen Hardman, percussionist..has played with many bands and loves to sinng Cher Songs, Michelle Murray, songwriter and very active in SAW as well as fantastic perfomer on guitar and vox..she gives the Blue Jayes an original sound...Rick Kanton, guitar..one of those guitar guys who can play just about anything in any style..has played with many bands...Joyce Ettingoff, harmonica player..endorsed by Lee Oskar..was part of CSA Jamboree..will also play anything and take the harmonica where people think it shouldn't go.

For more information, check them out on Facebook or at http://www.reverbnation.com/thetravelingbluejayes

This program is a production of the Silver Spring Town Center, Inc.

Visit our blog at www.silverspringtowncenter.blogspot.com, follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/sstowncenter or on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/groups/8305814081/

See our Plaza videos at http://www.youtube.com/user/TheTownCentre

See our Plaza pics at http://www.flickr.com/photos/alanbowser/collections/72157626644003377/

Stealing Liberty Plays Silver Spring's Veterans Plaza, Sunday, October 2, 2011 at 1 pm. Free

2011-09-30T11:06:00.004-04:00

Please join us for another exciting Plaza Performance as we welcome "Stealing Liberty" to the Plaza Stage on Sunday, October 2, 2011, at 1 pm. The performance is free.

Stealing Liberty is Jeff Snyder – Rhythm Guitar, Vocals, Tracy Beer – Lead Guitar, Trevor Specht – Saxophone, Vocals, Leah DeLano – Vocals, Bill Cahill – Bass, Todd Newell – Drums, and Jeff DLB - Keyboards.

Stealing Liberty, founded in January 2011, is a cover band focusing on jazzy, up-tempo versions of material by the Grateful Dead, Rat Dog and associated musicians. Founder Jeff Snyder of Baltimore, also in Shakedown Suite, provides crisp vocals and Bob Weir-style rhythm guitar. Saxophonist Trevor Specht, also in Silver Spring-based Chopteeth Afrofunk Big Band, adds vocals and a new element of sax lines weaving around and through the music. Lead guitarist Tracy Beer, also in August First, provides the soulful Jerry Garcia solos. Other personnel include Leah DeLano (formerly of The Wharf Rats and the Washington Revels) on harmony vocals, Jeff DLB (formerly Wharf Rats and Shakedown Suite) on keys, Bill Cahill (formerly Shakedown Suite, Deny Everything) on bass, and Todd Newell (Creek Shore Ramblers) on drums.

This program is a production of the Silver Spring Town Center, Inc.

Visit our blog at www.silverspringtowncenter.blogspot.com, follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/sstowncenter or on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/groups/8305814081/

See our Plaza videos at http://www.youtube.com/user/TheTownCentre

See our Plaza pics at http://www.flickr.com/photos/alanbowser/collections/72157626644003377/

Salsa on the Plaza - Video

2011-09-29T11:37:00.004-04:00

Ricardo Loaiza leads the Salsa on the Plaza program. Mr. Loaiza, a native of Colombia, is the originator the Latin Dance Company DC SALSEROS/LATIN VIBES which was launched in 1996 in Washington, DC. Ricardo has taught, choreographed and performed in more than 500 events in the Washington DC Metropolita, area as well as in over 20 cities in the USA. He has taught and Performed in various major SALSA international events in Holland, England, Germany, Dubai, Ireland, Puerto Rico, Japan, Aruba and Colombia. Currently he teaches Salsa-Aerobics (Dance Aerobics) at various Washington Sports Clubs, as part of a High and Low exercise program, for young and old.

For the last 10 years, he has helped organize and host the Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) Latin Dance Competition which has had as many as 10 schools participate in the past. As a result of this competition in November of 2010, he co-founded “The After School Latin Dance Fund”(ASDF), a non-profit organization that provides artistic, technical and financial support for the establishment of after school Latin dance programs with the hope of expanding the program to all 25 MCPS.

After School Dance Fund provides artistic, technical and financial support for the establishment After School Latin Dance Programs in all Montgomery County Public Schools (“MCPS”). ASDF offers its programs in an effort to combat the troubling prevalence of preventable social and health issues; particularly in the Latino community, including childhood obesity, teen pregnancy, high rates of high school drop-outs, and the devastating influence of gangs in our communities. The ASDF initiative aims to create a permanent space for participating MCPS students to be involved in a positive group activity with their peers after school. The GOAL is for students to learn to showcase popular Latin dances, as well as the importance of living a healthy mental and physical life style. To this end, dance becomes a vehicle for increased cultural awareness and pride, while fostering exercise and having fun. In addition, participants learn teamwork and gain leadership skills in preparation for competition with individuals dancers and dance teams from other schools. The artistic progress and continuous improvement in dance technique will have a positive impression in each participant's personality, manners and etiquette. Also, by participating in a structures program, students learn to be part of a team, to be responsible, on-time, respectful to their team members, adults and their parents.

As a result of last year MCPS High School 11th Annual Latin Dance Competition, which was held at the Strathmore, The ASDF proudly partnered with HIPtv, who produced a Documentary “The Road to Strathmore” which features the lives of four students from two different schools and their sponsors. The documentary will be PREMIERE in Silver Spring this Fall 2011 and will be submitted to local, regional, national and international film festivals. The Documentary elaborates on the struggle, success and importance of students to be involved in a positive group activity with their peers.

This program is a production of the Silver Spring Town Center, Inc.

Visit their blog at www.silverspringtowncenter.blogspot.com, follow them on Twitter at www.twitter.com/sstowncenter or on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/groups/8305814081/

See our Plaza videos at http://www.youtube.com/user/TheTownCentre

See our Plaza pics at http://www.flickr.com/photos/alanbowser/collections/72157626644003377/

County renews Silver Spring’s designation as arts district - Gazette

2011-09-27T17:57:00.003-04:00

The Montgomery County Council approved an application Tuesday to renew an arts and entertainment district designation for Silver Spring, which has become a mecca for music and cultural events in the past decade.

Silver Spring was first given the title 10 years ago. The designation provides tax breaks for businesses, theaters and arts nonprofits in Silver Spring. It must be renewed every decade.

“We want to continue building the vibrant place that all these trailblazers started,” said Reemberto Rodriguez, director of the Silver Spring Regional Services Center. “That’s what the arts and entertainment designation will do.”

This summer, for example, downtown hosted about 20 festivals, as well as the weekly Fenton Street Market.

The Fillmore music hall, which opened Thursday, joins other performance venues such as Round House Theatre, Bonifant Theatre Space and Lumina Studio Theatre. Other arts venues include The AFI Silver Theatre Cultural Center and the Regal Majestic 20 for movies and Pyramid Atlantic Art Center for visual arts.

Veterans Plaza, the open space in front of the Silver Spring Civic Building, also hosts a weekly program of concerts and game nights.

Mike Diegel, member of the Arts and Entertainment Advisory Committee in Silver Spring, said the designation is an economic development tool that will bring more money to the arts community, local businesses, the county and the state.

“From my perspective, we need to continue to focus and keep in mind that the idea is, by bringing more and more people to downtown, everyone makes more money,” Diegel said.

Alan Bowser, president of Silver Spring Town Center Inc., which plans programs for the Civic Building and Veterans Plaza, said the title helps build community solidarity.

“We live in a very diverse community, and we have seen first-hand how arts and cultural entertainment can strengthen the community,” Bowser said. “It makes people more knowledgeable and accepting of certain cultures. It helps people learn about different people and the way they dress and sing and dance, and that’s absolutely essential for the community.”

Diegel said the arts and entertainment committee is discussing adding even more culture options to Silver Spring in the next 10 years. He said members would like to see art studios that house artists in Silver Spring. Diegel also said committee members would like to see the brand of Silver Spring as an entertainment destination spread across the East Coast.

“Our vision for Silver Spring is to become a regular destination, not just for the surrounding county, but down to Richmond, [Va.,] and up to Philadelphia and Harrisburg, [Pa.],” Diegel said.

In the next decade, Bowser said he would like more public art in Silver Spring, for example local artwork displayed at bus stops. He said he’d also like more local, small music venues that support community bands as well as an expanded Silver Spring Blues Festival.

“I’d like to see Silver Spring go for more indigenous music,” Bowser said. “We have a lot of local people who are very talented.”

There are 19 arts and entertainment districts in the state. Bethesda and Wheaton are the only other two in Montgomery County.

Rodriguez said the application must be submitted to the state by Oct. 1, when the Maryland Department of Business and Economic Development will make the final decision.

“After a decade of building the arts and entertainment district, now our challenge, if you will, is to coordinate collaboration and make what we are building that much more useful to our area residents and the region,” Rodriguez said.

Published: Wednesday, September 21, 201 by kristi tousignant, staff writer, ktousignant@gazette.net

Strings for Joy! perform on Silver Spring's Veterans Plaza, Tuesday, September 27, 2011 at 7 pm. Free!

2011-09-27T09:53:00.005-04:00

Please join us for another exciting Plaza Performance as we welcome Strings for Joy! to the Plaza Stage on Tuesday, September 27, 2011 at 7 pm. The performance is free.

Sligo Chamber Players began about 25 years ago with the mission to develop the talent of young string players via the mentoring of professional musicians. Sligo Seventh-Day Adventist Church in Takoma Park is considered home and its students, from the studio of Evonne Lindquist-Baasch.

Through the years Sligo Chamber Players have performed in Wales, Scotland, Canada, Jamaica, Bermuda, Iceland and about 20 of the United States, the United Nations, the Westminster and Coventry Cathedrals of England.

Most recently her student group, Strings for Joy! performed at the White House for President and Mrs. Obama and recorded for the television program, Kids Time Praise.

Tonight's performers are Alexandre Paintsil, Jepthalyne Senas, Kevin Gopala-Rao, Stephanie Birmingham, Aniza Moore, Breanna Roth, Evonne Baasch, violins and Dr. Ekatrina DiPinto, cello.

This program is a production of the Silver Spring Town Center, Inc.
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Visit our blog at www.silverspringtowncenter.blogspot.com, follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/sstowncenter or on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/groups/8305814081/

See our Plaza videos at http://www.youtube.com/user/TheTownCentre

See our Plaza pics at http://www.flickr.com/photos/alanbowser/collections/72157626644003377/

Dimensionz of Bluz on Veterans Plaza, Thursday, September 29, 2011, 7 pm. Free!

2011-09-27T09:35:00.005-04:00

Please join us for another exciting Plaza Performance as we welcome Dimensionz of Bluz to the Plaza Stage. The performance is free.

Dimensionz of Bluz has been playing together for a year and live up to their name. Each of the members brings his own style of blues to synthesize a unique sound. Mike Baytop has a long history in the Washington area as a Piedmont or country blues musician. Time Nolte comes from the Midwest and brings a Chicago / rock style of blues. Willie Leebel has long been a student of the delta style of blues. And Marcus Childs-Moore has a strong background in jazz providing an additional element to the group. Plan to hear some blues standards performed in an inimitable way.

This program is a production of the Silver Spring Town Center, Inc.

Visit our blog at www.silverspringtowncenter.blogspot.com, follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/sstowncenter or on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/groups/8305814081/

See our Plaza videos at http://www.youtube.com/user/TheTownCentre

See our Plaza pics at http://www.flickr.com/photos/alanbowser/collections/72157626644003377/

The Archie Edwards Blues Ensemble on Veterans Plaza

2011-09-22T11:17:00.003-04:00

The Archie Edwards Blues Ensemble is a group of musicians representing the Archie Edwards Blues Heritage Foundation, also known as the Barbershop, who perform for the public. The ensemble consists of foundation veterans as well all musicians who are new to the Barbershop. The AEBHF is dedicated to preserving the Piedmont or east coast style of blues. Performers for Tuesday, September 20 include: Chris Anderson, Mike Baytop, Eleanor Ellis, Jeff Hawkins, Willie Leebel and Adam Oppenheim.

This program is a production of the Silver Spring Town Center, Inc.

Visit our blog at www.silverspringtowncenter.blogspot.com, follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/sstowncenter or on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/groups/8305814081/

See our Plaza videos at http://www.youtube.com/user/TheTownCentre

See our Plaza pics at http://www.flickr.com/photos/alanbowser/collections/72157626644003377/

The Social Ramble Plays Silver Spring's Veterans Plaza, Thursday, September 22, 2011 at 7 pm. Free

2011-09-22T09:51:00.005-04:00

Please join us for another exciting Plaza Performance as we welcome The Social Ramble to the Veterans Plaza Stage. The performance begins at 7 pm. It's free!

The Social Ramble is David Byrd, guitar, Jim Lande, clarinet, saxaphone, bones, and Howard Moss, harmonica.

This program is a production of the Silver Spring Town Center, Inc.

Visit our blog at www.silverspringtowncenter.blogspot.com, follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/sstowncenter or on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/groups/8305814081/

See our Plaza videos at http://www.youtube.com/user/TheTownCentre

See our Plaza pics at http://www.flickr.com/photos/alanbowser/collections/72157626644003377/

County renews Silver Spring’s designation as arts district - Gazette

2011-09-21T10:28:00.001-04:00

Wednesday, September 21, 2011 by Kristi Tousignant, Staff Writer

The Montgomery County Council approved an application Tuesday to renew an arts and entertainment district designation for Silver Spring, which has become a mecca for music and cultural events in the past decade.

Silver Spring was first given the title 10 years ago. The designation provides tax breaks for businesses, theaters and arts nonprofits in Silver Spring. It must be renewed every decade.

“We want to continue building the vibrant place that all these trailblazers started,” said Reemberto Rodriguez, director of the Silver Spring Regional Services Center. “That’s what the arts and entertainment designation will do.”

This summer, for example, downtown hosted about 20 festivals, as well as the weekly Fenton Street Market.

The Fillmore music hall, which opened Thursday, joins other performance venues such as Round House Theatre, Bonifant Theatre Space and Lumina Studio Theatre. Other arts venues include The AFI Silver Theatre Cultural Center and the Regal Majestic 20 for movies and Pyramid Atlantic Art Center for visual arts.

Veterans Plaza, the open space in front of the Silver Spring Civic Building, also hosts a weekly program of concerts and game nights.

Mike Diegel, member of the Arts and Entertainment Advisory Committee in Silver Spring, said the designation is an economic development tool that will bring more money to the arts community, local businesses, the county and the state.

“From my perspective, we need to continue to focus and keep in mind that the idea is, by bringing more and more people to downtown, everyone makes more money,” Diegel said.

Alan Bowser, president of Silver Spring Town Center Inc., which plans programs for the Civic Building and Veterans Plaza, said the title helps build community solidarity.

“We live in a very diverse community, and we have seen first-hand how arts and cultural entertainment can strengthen the community,” Bowser said. “It makes people more knowledgeable and accepting of certain cultures. It helps people learn about different people and the way they dress and sing and dance, and that’s absolutely essential for the community.”

Diegel said the arts and entertainment committee is discussing adding even more culture options to Silver Spring in the next 10 years. He said members would like to see art studios that house artists in Silver Spring.

Diegel also said committee members would like to see the brand of Silver Spring as an entertainment destination spread across the East Coast.

“Our vision for Silver Spring is to become a regular destination, not just for the surrounding county, but down to Richmond, [Va.,] and up to Philadelphia and Harrisburg, [Pa.],” Diegel said.

In the next decade, Bowser said he would like more public art in Silver Spring, for example local artwork displayed at bus stops. He said he’d also like more local, small music venues that support community bands as well as an expanded Silver Spring Blues Festival.

“I’d like to see Silver Spring go for more indigenous music,” Bowser said. “We have a lot of local people who are very talented.”

There are 19 arts and entertainment districts in the state. Bethesda and Wheaton are the only other two in Montgomery County.

Rodriguez said the application must be submitted to the state by Oct. 1, when the Maryland Department of Business and Economic Development will make the final decision.

“After a decade of building the arts and entertainment district, now our challenge, if you will, is to coordinate collaboration and make what we are building that much more useful to our area residents and the region,” Rodriguez said.

ktousignant@gazette.net© 2011 Post-Newsweek Media, Inc./Gazette.Net

Archie Edwards Blues Ensemble Plays Veterans Plaza, September 20, 2011, 7 pm. Free

2011-09-19T15:54:00.003-04:00

Please join us for another exciting Plaza Performance as we welcome the Archie Edwards Blues Ensemble to the Plaza Stage. The program is Tuesday, September 20, 2011 at 7 pm. The performance is free!

The Archie Edwards Blues Ensemble is a group of musicians representing the Archie Edwards Blues Heritage Foundation, also known as the Barbershop, who perform for the public. The ensemble consists of foundation veterans as well all musicians who are new to the Barbershop. The AEBHF is dedicated to preserving the Piedmont or east coast style of blues. Performers for Tuesday, September 20 include: Chris Anderson, Mike Baytop, Eleanor Ellis, Jeff Hawkins, Willie Leebel and Adam Oppenheim.

This program is a production of the Silver Spring Town Center, Inc.

Visit their blog at www.silverspringtowncenter.blogspot.com, follow them on Twitter at www.twitter.com/sstowncenter or on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/groups/8305814081/

See our Plaza videos at http://www.youtube.com/user/TheTownCentre

See our Plaza pics at http://www.flickr.com/photos/alanbowser/collections/72157626644003377/

Silver Spring Town Center, Inc. and Montgomery County to Partner on Silver Spring Community Programming

2011-09-16T19:50:00.003-04:00

The Silver Spring Town Center, Inc. and Montgomery County have concluded a Memorandum of Understanding to promote community programming at the Silver Spring Civic Building and Veterans Plaza.

“This is very good news for Silver Spring,” said Alan Bowser, SSTCi’s President and member of the SSTCi Board of Directors. “The signing of the MOU is the culmination of many years of hard work by the SSTCi Board of Directors and Montgomery County officials to provide a viable framework for low-cost community access to the building. We’re dedicated to the proposition that the Silver Spring Civic Building and Veterans Plaza are vitally important public spaces for our neighbors and that they should serve as our community’s collective “living room.” We have a wonderfully diverse, local culture of community partnerships and artistic expression that needs to be nurtured and celebrated. With the MOU, we’ll be able continue our work to ensure that there are many exciting things to do, see and learn in downtown Silver Spring, and that the community has ready access to the building.”

The Silver Spring Town Center, Inc. (SSTCi) was established in 2004 to promote community-based arts & entertainment programming for the Silver Spring Civic Building and Veterans Plaza that was completed in 2010. The vision of the non-profit’s founders was to ensure that Silver Spring residents would have access to the new civic building after its completion and to promote community arts, entertainment and cultural uses in the new facility.

The Memorandum of Understanding, which became effective on September 15, 2011, facilitates the organization’s community-serving agenda by permitting SSTCi to use space in the building and on the Veterans Plaza at no-cost when its programs and activities are supporting a community project or program. SSTCi plans to partner, initially, with local non-profit arts & organizations to facilitate their access to the Civic Building and Plaza at no cost.

According to the MOU, SSTCi and its partner organizations would have to pay any required maintenance, security and other costs associated with the use of the space. SSTCi will coordinate the programming through the Director of the Silver Spring Regional Center and the County’s Community Use of Public Facilities (CUPF) program.

The Silver Spring Town Center, Inc. has been very active in promoting the arts and humanities in Silver Spring and in greater Montgomery County. It has organized the very successful Silver Spring Blues Festivals at Downtown Silver Spring which have entertained thousands of neighbors and visitors, the annual benefit concerts in support of Montgomery County’s veterans, community dance classes, and its popular Plaza Performances on Veterans Plaza. This year, alone, SSTCi’s Plaza Performances have brought nearly 50 free musical acts to the public, featuring jazz, blues, folk, classical, and rock music.

SSTCi is a 501(c)3 organization. The members of the SSTCi Board of Directors are: Alan Bowser, Aurelia Martin, Beth Wong, David Fogel, Don Berkemeyer, Graciela Jaschek, Harriet Weil, Jack Hewitt, Jon Lourie, Jose Dominguez, Mark Kozaki, Mary Ann Zimmerman, Reemberto Rodriguez, Sheryl Chapman, and Wanda Whiteside.

For more information, please visit SSTCi’s website at www.silverspringtowncenter.com, its blog at www.silverspringtowncenter.blogspot.com, on Facebook at www.facebook.com/silverspringtowncenter or on Twitter at www.twitter.com/sstowncenter

Save the Date - SSTCi Tribute to America's Veterans Concert, November 11, 2011 at 7 pm.!

2011-09-14T09:21:00.002-04:00

Please save the date for SSTCi's fourth annual "Tribute to America's Veterans" Concert which will be held on Friday, November 11, 2011 at 7 pm in the Great Hall of the Silver Spring Civic Building.

Join us for a wonderful reception from 6 to 7 pm, followed by great music performances by guitar great Warner Williams, recognized by the National Endowment of the Arts for lifetime achievement in traditional music, and the Greater U Street Jazz Collective.

Details to follow.

Save the date! Friday, November 11, 2011 at the Silver Spring Civic Building.

"Salsa on the Plaza" tonight at 7 pm.

2011-09-14T09:06:00.001-04:00

The Silver Spring Town Center, Inc. invites you to "Salsa on the Plaza," a multi-week Salsa dance class for all. And it's free! Starting Wednesday, September 14th--and continuing into October--Ricardo Loaiza and Elba Garcia will teach you how to dance the Salsa or help you improve you style!

What: Salsa Dancing on the Plaza
Where: Silver Spring's Veterans Plaza, Silver Spring, MD 20910
When: Wednesday, September 14, 2011, 7-9 pm.
Experience: No experience needed! Experienced dancers welcome!
Cost: Free!

Want to learn how to dance the Salsa? Want to improve your Salsa dancing? Join Ricardo, Elba and friends on Veterans Plaza for free Salsa classes, every Wednesday in September and on into October!

About Ricardo and Elba. Ricardo Loaiza, a native of Colombia, is the originator the Latin Dance Company DC SALSEROS/LATIN VIBES which was launched in 1996 in Washington, DC. Ricardo has taught, choreographed and performed in more than 500 events in the Washington DC Metropolita, area as well as in over 20 cities in the USA. He has taught and Performed in various major SALSA international events in Holland, England, Germany, Dubai, Ireland, Puerto Rico, Japan, Aruba and Colombia. Currently he teaches Salsa-Aerobics (Dance Aerobics) at various Washington Sports Clubs, as part of a High and Low exercise program, for young and old.

Joining Ricardo, the father of Esperanza Loaiza, in instruction is Elba Garcia, his life-long dance partner, wife and mother of their other 3 children--Ricardo Rey, Leonardo and Lorenza.

Mr. Loaiza has been a pioneer in his field and has facilitated many firsts throughout his career. Ricardo was the first local Latin Dance Instructor to start a Dance Company and to be invited to represent Washington, DC in various National and International events. The first in the DC Metropolitan area to provide students with progressive group and performance classes with a carefully planned syllabus and evaluation process. And the first to open a Latino Owned Latin Dance Studio in Silver Spring, MD in 2000. Ricardo is also a promoter of Salsa, Mambo and other Latin dances through WEPA Productions, who are the organizers for the International Salsa Conventions. Mr. Loaiza has paved the way for the many Dance Instructors and Dance Companies that currently exist in the DC Metropolitan Area. He is well known for his Group classes and ENERGETIC and FUN presence when teaching. Ricardo considers himself "a student of SALSA and Mambo" and takes every opportunity to learn new things everywhere he teaches.

For the last 10 years, he has helped organize and host the Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) Latin Dance Competition which has had as many as 10 schools participate in the past. As a result of this competition in November of 2010, he co-founded “The After School Latin Dance Fund”(ASDF), a non-profit organization that provides artistic, technical and financial support for the establishment of after school Latin dance programs with the hope of expanding the program to all 25 MCPS.

After School Dance Fund provides artistic, technical and financial support for the establishment After School Latin Dance Programs in all Montgomery County Public Schools (“MCPS”). ASDF offers its programs in an effort to combat the troubling prevalence of preventable social and health issues; particularly in the Latino community, including childhood obesity, teen pregnancy, high rates of high school drop-outs, and the devastating influence of gangs in our communities. The ASDF initiative aims to create a permanent space for participating MCPS students to be involved in a positive group activity with their peers after school. The GOAL is for students to learn to showcase popular Latin dances, as well as the importance of living a healthy mental and physical life style. To this end, dance becomes a vehicle for increased cultural awareness and pride, while fostering exercise and having fun. In addition, participants learn teamwork and gain leadership skills in preparation for competition with individuals dancers and dance teams from other schools. The artistic progress and continuous improvement in dance technique will have a positive impression in each participant's personality, manners and etiquette. Also, by participating in a structures program, students learn to be part of a team, to be responsible, on-time, respectful to their team members, adults and their parents.

As a result of last year MCPS Hih School 11th Annual Latin Dance Competition, which was held at the Strathmore, The ASDF proudly partnered with HIPtv, who produced a Documentary “The Road to Strathmore” which features the lives of (4) students from two different schools and their sponsors. The documentary will be PREMIERE in Silver Spring this Fall 2011 and will be submitted to local, regional, national and international film festivals. The Documentary elaborates on the struggle, success and importance of students to be involved in a positive group activity with their peers.

About Althea Grey-McKenzie. Assisting Ricardo and Elba for "Salsa on the Plaza" is Althea Grey-McKenzie, the Artistic Director for the White House Studios. Althea is an awarded artist and visiting scholar in dance and cultural event management for her work as a performer, instructor, educator, and grant committee panelist. In addition to her work for The White House Studios in Downtown Silver Spring, she is Choreographer for Caribbean Dance Traditions (CDT), a resident performing group at the studio that performs in the Washington Metro area and has been seen at The Takoma Park Folk Festival, Magical Montgomery, World of Montgomery Festival, Taste of Wheaton and Montgomery County Public Libraries. She currently serves as Chair for the National Caribbean-American Heritage Month Steering Committee for the Caribbean-American Chamber of Commerce in the Greater Washington Area and has coordinated several successful programs regarding Caribbean culture which were featured in the Washington Post, ‘Montgomery Extra ‘ section, the Silver Spring Gazette, and the Rockville Patch.

Ms. Grey-McKenzie directed successful programs including: the Caribbean Dance Genre Program for several years at the Gilchrist Center for Cultural Diversity in Wheaton, Maryland, and co-directed the Caribbean Cultural Youth Association in Gaithersburg, Maryland. Both programs brought folk and traditional dance and cultural workshops representing Caribbean and Latino Heritage to underserved families in the Washington Metro area. She was also instrumental in bringing theatrical arts and workshops to The CaribFest in Richmond, VA, The Neal-Marshall Black Cultural Center at Indiana University and the Murphy Fine Arts Center at Morgan State University for a wide range of audiences. Ms. Grey-McKenzie continues to bring the awareness of this rich artistic culture to audiences in the Washington Metro area and Baltimore and produced “Caribbean Carnival Experience” for a 750 audience assembly of elementary school and middle school agers in July 2011.

As a professional dancer, member performer and former member of two dance companies, Ms. Grey McKenzie has an extensive background in dance. She was member of La Musicale Dance Works (DC) for eleven years, Soul in Motion Players, Inc. (MD) for five years and currently a member of the Zomema Dance Ensemble in Prince George’s Maryland, and a continuing five-year member of Carivision Community Theatre, a Caribbean theatrical company in College Park, Maryland, Althea has a passion for dance and the arts, as well as celebrating the interrelated aspects of African, Caribbean, Hispanic, European, Asian and African-American dance, musical, and theatrical art forms and traditions.

This program is a production of the Silver Spring Town Center, Inc.

Visit their blog at www.silverspringtowncenter.blogspot.com, follow them on Twitter at www.twitter.com/sstowncenter or on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/groups/8305814081/

See our Plaza videos at http://www.youtube.com/user/TheTownCentre

See our Plaza pics at http://www.flickr.com/photos/alanbowser/collections/72157626644003377/

For Guitar Man Warner Williams, passion outshines spotlight - Washington Post, September 5, 2011

2011-09-09T17:03:00.000-04:00

By Justin Jouvenal, Published: September 5

To find the guitarist recently honored alongside B.B. King and John Lee Hooker as one of the nation’s greatest traditional artists, bypass the big clubs and head for a more unlikely spot: the Shady Grove Metro station.

Warner Williams just might be there picking his guitar, a bucket set in front of him for tips. It’s one of the last places you’d look for major talent, but Williams’s stage is wherever he is.

Williams can slide between styles as easily as the arm of an old jukebox snaps a fresh 45 on the spindle. Piedmont blues flows into hillbilly. R&B segues to bluegrass. Vintage rock gives way to gospel. His fingers are nimble but as unhurried as a country ramble. His voice is warm and weathered.

At 81, Williams is perhaps the greatest living example of a musician who grew up playing in the style of the songster — the largely African American tradition of troubadours that is older than the blues. And he may be among the last. Songsters once dotted the South. Some roamed far and wide playing on train platforms, dusty crossroads and as warm-up acts for medicine shows.

Before the rise of the record industry and radio, they were human iPods, able to pick out a dizzying array of popular songs for whoever had enough cash to call the tune.

This summer, the National Endowment for the Arts awarded Williams the nation’s highest honor for a traditional musician, a National Heritage Fellowship. The recognition is a departure for Williams, who released his first major-label album at the age of 74 and never pursued a full-time career in music in his earlier years. Instead, he drove a garbage truck for the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission to support his wife and eight children.

In the spirit of the earlier songsters, Williams has spent most of his music-making years working a circuit that took him through the heart of a bygone musical Washington: suburban Maryland juke joints, rough-and-tumble house parties known as “house hops” and the District’s golden era of street-corner pickers.

The Guitar Man, as he bills himself, is an enigmatic character who rarely answers questions about himself with more than three words. (As a fellow musician put it, “You’d be fortunate for him to corroborate his date of birth.”) When he does speak of his youth, the stories sometimes change.

Williams wears wraparound shades and a cowboy hat, sometimes with a jackknife tucked in the band. He has had some minor scrapes with the law.

His commercial success has been limited, because he refuses to fly on planes and has an aversion to recording his own songs — not that the spotlight seems to matter much to him.

“I see him as one of the torchbearers,” said Rick Franklin, a blues guitarist who has played with Williams. “He learned his music and played his music in the community. He remained the neighborhood-type fixture. You can still find him playing on the street.”

A ‘country boy’

On a recent Wednesday night, Williams was to play a gig at the Armed Forces Retirement Home in Northwest Washington. Fifteen minutes before showtime, he sat down and plowed into his set, just as the sound man was trying to do a check. Williams blasted through everything from Fats Domino’s hit “Blueberry Hill” to his signature jaunty blues shuffle “Hey Bartender, There’s a Big Bug in My Beer.”

“Hey Bartender, there’s a big bug in my beer. . . . Big ole bug drinkin’ all my brew,” Williams crooned.

He stopped only once during the set to say: “My name is Warner Williams, and I’m from the country.”

Williams is from Takoma Park. When he was born May 7, 1930, the idea of a country boy from Takoma Park was less improbable. The city was near the edge of the D.C. suburbs. Williams said that cornfields stretched not too far from his home and that “old New Hampshire Avenue was nothing but woods and country.”

The son of a cement finisher and a house cleaner, Williams was one of 11 children raised in a musical family. He picked up the guitar at 4, spurred on by his father, who also taught music and played the fiddle. Williams’s older brothers, who served in the Navy, brought home the blues. He said he learned some songs by listening to records on a windup Victrola phonograph.

Relationships with white people could be combustible in Takoma Park. Williams said he was sometimes jumped in the street, but he also learned to play country with white neighbors. He sees country and blues flowing from the same source.

“They both got meaning,” said Williams. “Country ain’t nothing but the blues.”

By his early teens, Williams was hopping streetcars and buses to get to the District, often paying his fare with a song. He’d wander through the city, playing tunes for change until police shooed him away. A staple of Williams’s sets is a Piedmont blues classic, “Step It Up and Go,” which he has said is reminiscent of his early days as a street-corner player: “Up come the law and knocked on the door / You gotta step it up and go.”

At 22, he won an on-air talent show on WWDC hosted by Jackson Lowe, a white DJ who was an early champion of R&B. Williams started playing juke joints and house hops around the Maryland suburbs soon after.

At house hops, somebody would make food, another might bring the liquor and Williams was called on to provide the music. He would pick songs and people would dance, paying him tips in whiskey they would lay at his feet. Sometimes, the rowdy partying would spill into fistfights. Williams said he learned to play through the commotion, because stopping “makes it worse.”

When Williams married his wife, Karoline, and started his family, he continued to play on weeknights and weekends, said his daughter Sheila Williams. Many of Williams’s children live in the area.

“When he walked in that door from work, the first thing he did would be to pick up his guitar. He would just play for a couple of minutes, then go on about his business,” Shelia Williams said. “Anything tragic that happened in the family — whatever he felt — he expressed through music.”

New fame and an old gig

Tom Mindte first caught Williams at an open-mike night at a hole-in-the-wall bar in Olney in 1989. Mindte, who owns the small label Patuxent Records, had no idea who Williams was, but he was stunned by what he saw — something akin to walking into karaoke night and finding Placido Domingo on the mike.

“I wrote down every song that he did,” Mindte said. “It was amazing someone that great was at an open mike playing for free.”

Mindte later recorded a set of Williams’s music, but the quality of the recordings was not good enough to release. It took eight more years before Mindte could corral Williams to sit for another session. It turned into his first album, “Little Bit a Blues.” The album features Williams’s sidekick, Jay Summerour, on harmonica.

Williams’s major-label debut, “Blues Highway,” was released in 2004 and helped bring him to wider attention. Summerour has also helped guide Williams to bigger gigs at Wolf Trap, the National Folk Festival and other spots in recent years, but Williams is still more likely to be found playing a house party or a small club or busking on a street corner.

Williams’s sky-blue mobile home on Mount Zion Road in Gaithersburg sits on land owned by his grandmother, who Williams sometimes says was a slave.

Down the road, Williams regularly picks his guitar during the open-mike night at a small restaurant called Dave’s American Bistro. He has played there for roughly 25 years, said Kevin Sheehan, the owner.

Under other names and in earlier times, Sheehan said, the spot was a dirt-floored honky-tonk — or, as a sign once proclaimed at its entrance, “the honkiest-tonkiest beer joint in town.”

Williams played for white bikers, who bellied up to the bar for Pabst Blue Ribbon and pig knuckles. It wasn’t a place that always welcomed African Americans, but Williams had a loyal following, Sheehan said.

There’s nothing honky-tonk about the place now. Suburban families sit around handsome, stained-wood tables eating mahi-mahi tacos and charbroiled ribeye steaks.

During open-mike nights, Williams regularly sails past the 30-minute time limit, but no one seems to mind, Sheehan said. The Guitar Man and his guitar can still keep audiences rapt after 70 years.

“He’s a legend around these parts,” Sheehan said.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/local/guitar-man-warner-williams-strums-the-blues-in-the-district/2011/08/15/gIQAu1qF4J_print.html

© The Washington Post Company

Machines on Vacation Plays Silver Spring's Veterans Plaza, Tuesday, September 13, 2011 at 7 pm. Free

2011-09-09T15:51:00.003-04:00

Please join us for another exciting Plaza Performance as we welcome "Machines on Vacation" to the Plaza Stage.

Like building a house in the limbs of a tree, Machines on Vacation takes things that seem incongruous, incompatible, and even a bit dangerous and makes something uniquely awesome. Vocal harmonies, string quartet, acoustic guitar, and electronic beats and blips create a sound that is both new and accessible.

A DC-area band founded in 2009, Machines on Vacation played its first shows during the worst winter in the region’s history. Opening for touring artists like Ha Ha Tonka and headlining local shows, Machines on Vacation gained a devoted following and honed their fun, unique act. After a year of playing to enthusiastic audiences, Machines on Vacation recorded a three song EP ‘Oh Not Goodbye.’ The three songs featured on the EP – Oh No, Not Today, and Waving Goodbye – provide an excellent sample of how the group intertwines memorable melodies with non-standard chord progressions. The unique blend of strings and electronics on ‘Oh No,’ the energizing pulse of ‘Not Today,’ and the soaring harmonies of ‘Waving Goodbye’ demonstrate why Machines on Vacation is the band to watch in the D.C. area.

Machines on Vacation has five primary members and two alternates:

Ethan Balis – vocals, acoustic guitar, beats, blips
Melanie Miller – vocals, violin
Theresa Schlafly – violin
Kellie MacDonald – viola
Amanda Melara – cello
Rochelle Carpenter – violin
Jodi Balis – vocals

Contact Machines on Vacation by email at machinesonvacation@gmail.com, or on Facebook.com/MachinesonVacation

This program is a production of the Silver Spring Town Center, Inc. Visit their blog at www.silverspringtowncenter.blogspot.com, follow them on Twitter at www.twitter.com/sstowncenter or on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/groups/8305814081/

See our Plaza videos at http://www.youtube.com/user/TheTownCentre

See our Plaza pics at http://www.flickr.com/photos/alanbowser/collections/72157626644003377/

Salsa on Veterans Plaza! Starting Wednesday, September 14, 2011 at 7 pm. Free!

2011-08-31T10:43:00.005-04:00

The Silver Spring Town Center, Inc. invites you to "Salsa on the Plaza," a multi-week Salsa dance class for all. And it's free! Starting Wednesday, September 7th--and continuing into October--Ricardo Loaiza and Elba Garcia will teach you how to dance the Salsa or help you improve you style!

What: Salsa Dancing on the Plaza
Where: Silver Spring's Veterans Plaza, Silver Spring, MD 20910
When: Wednesday, September 7, 2011, 7-9 pm.
Experience: No experience needed! Experienced dancers welcome!
Cost: Free!

Want to learn how to dance the Salsa? Want to improve your Salsa dancing? Join Ricardo, Elba and friends on Veterans Plaza for free Salsa classes, every Wednesday in September and on into October!

About Ricardo and Elba. Ricardo Loaiza, a native of Colombia, is the originator the Latin Dance Company DC SALSEROS/LATIN VIBES which was launched in 1996 in Washington, DC. Ricardo has taught, choreographed and performed in more than 500 events in the Washington DC Metropolita, area as well as in over 20 cities in the USA. He has taught and Performed in various major SALSA international events in Holland, England, Germany, Dubai, Ireland, Puerto Rico, Japan, Aruba and Colombia. Currently he teaches Salsa-Aerobics (Dance Aerobics) at various Washington Sports Clubs, as part of a High and Low exercise program, for young and old.

Joining Ricardo, the father of Esperanza Loaiza, in instruction is Elba Garcia, his life-long dance partner, wife and mother of their other 3 children--Ricardo Rey, Leonardo and Lorenza.

Mr. Loaiza has been a pioneer in his field and has facilitated many firsts throughout his career. Ricardo was the first local Latin Dance Instructor to start a Dance Company and to be invited to represent Washington, DC in various National and International events. The first in the DC Metropolitan area to provide students with progressive group and performance classes with a carefully planned syllabus and evaluation process. And the first to open a Latino Owned Latin Dance Studio in Silver Spring, MD in 2000. Ricardo is also a promoter of Salsa, Mambo and other Latin dances through WEPA Productions, who are the organizers for the International Salsa Conventions. Mr. Loaiza has paved the way for the many Dance Instructors and Dance Companies that currently exist in the DC Metropolitan Area. He is well known for his Group classes and ENERGETIC and FUN presence when teaching. Ricardo considers himself "a student of SALSA and Mambo" and takes every opportunity to learn new things everywhere he teaches.

For the last 10 years, he has helped organize and host the Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) Latin Dance Competition which has had as many as 10 schools participate in the past. As a result of this competition in November of 2010, he co-founded “The After School Latin Dance Fund”(ASDF), a non-profit organization that provides artistic, technical and financial support for the establishment of after school Latin dance programs with the hope of expanding the program to all 25 MCPS.

After School Dance Fund provides artistic, technical and financial support for the establishment After School Latin Dance Programs in all Montgomery County Public Schools (“MCPS”). ASDF offers its programs in an effort to combat the troubling prevalence of preventable social and health issues; particularly in the Latino community, including childhood obesity, teen pregnancy, high rates of high school drop-outs, and the devastating influence of gangs in our communities. The ASDF initiative aims to create a permanent space for participating MCPS students to be involved in a positive group activity with their peers after school. The GOAL is for students to learn to showcase popular Latin dances, as well as the importance of living a healthy mental and physical life style. To this end, dance becomes a vehicle for increased cultural awareness and pride, while fostering exercise and having fun. In addition, participants learn teamwork and gain leadership skills in preparation for competition with individuals dancers and dance teams from other schools. The artistic progress and continuous improvement in dance technique will have a positive impression in each participant's personality, manners and etiquette. Also, by participating in a structures program, students learn to be part of a team, to be responsible, on-time, respectful to their team members, adults and their parents.

As a result of last year MCPS Hih School 11th Annual Latin Dance Competition, which was held at the Strathmore, The ASDF proudly partnered with HIPtv, who produced a Documentary “The Road to Strathmore” which features the lives of (4) students from two different schools and their sponsors. The documentary will be PREMIERE in Silver Spring this Fall 2011 and will be submitted to local, regional, national and international film festivals. The Documentary elaborates on the struggle, success and importance of students to be involved in a positive group activity with their peers.

About Althea Grey-McKenzie. Assisting Ricardo and Elba for "Salsa on the Plaza" is Althea Grey-McKenzie, the Artistic Director for the White House Studios. Althea is an awarded artist and visiting scholar in dance and cultural event management for her work as a performer, instructor, educator, and grant committee panelist. In addition to her work for The White House Studios in Downtown Silver Spring, she is Choreographer for Caribbean Dance Traditions (CDT), a resident performing group at the studio that performs in the Washington Metro area and has been seen at The Takoma Park Folk Festival, Magical Montgomery, World of Montgomery Festival, Taste of Wheaton and Montgomery County Public Libraries. She currently serves as Chair for the National Caribbean-American Heritage Month Steering Committee for the Caribbean-American Chamber of Commerce in the Greater Washington Area and has coordinated several successful programs regarding Caribbean culture which were featured in the Washington Post, ‘Montgomery Extra ‘ section, the Silver Spring Gazette, and the Rockville Patch.

Ms. Grey-McKenzie directed successful programs including: the Caribbean Dance Genre Program for several years at the Gilchrist Center for Cultural Diversity in Wheaton, Maryland, and co-directed the Caribbean Cultural Youth Association in Gaithersburg, Maryland. Both programs brought folk and traditional dance and cultural workshops representing Caribbean and Latino Heritage to underserved families in the Washington Metro area. She was also instrumental in bringing theatrical arts and workshops to The CaribFest in Richmond, VA, The Neal-Marshall Black Cultural Center at Indiana University and the Murphy Fine Arts Center at Morgan State University for a wide range of audiences. Ms. Grey-McKenzie continues to bring the awareness of this rich artistic culture to audiences in the Washington Metro area and Baltimore and produced “Caribbean Carnival Experience” for a 750 audience assembly of elementary school and middle school agers in July 2011.

As a professional dancer, member performer and former member of two dance companies, Ms. Grey McKenzie has an extensive background in dance. She was member of La Musicale Dance Works (DC) for eleven years, Soul in Motion Players, Inc. (MD) for five years and currently a member of the Zomema Dance Ensemble in Prince George’s Maryland, and a continuing five-year member of Carivision Community Theatre, a Caribbean theatrical company in College Park, Maryland, Althea has a passion for dance and the arts, as well as celebrating the interrelated aspects of African, Caribbean, Hispanic, European, Asian and African-American dance, musical, and theatrical art forms and traditions.

This program is a production of the Silver Spring Town Center, Inc.

Visit their blog at www.silverspringtowncenter.blogspot.com, follow them on Twitter at www.twitter.com/sstowncenter or on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/groups/8305814081/

See our Plaza videos at http://www.youtube.com/user/TheTownCentre

See our Plaza pics at http://www.flickr.com/photos/alanbowser/collections/72157626644003377/

Jesus House, Bliss & the Eclectiks Perform at Silver Spring's Veterans Plaza, Sunday, September 4, 2011. Free

2011-08-30T11:05:00.005-04:00

Please join us for more exciting Plaza Performances on Silver Spring’s Veterans Plaza.

On Sunday, September 4, we welcome the Music & Arts Ministries of Jesus House DC back to the Plaza Stage. The performance is free!

Jesus House DC is a dynamic vibrant non-denominational multicultural church where praise is exuberant, prayer is steadfast and preaching is practical. The church has been based in the DC Metropolitan area for over a decade. The mission of the church is to restore hope and maximize potential. The church has an active community outreach ministry called “True Love Cares (TLC)” whose mandate is to share the love of Jesus Christ by caring for others.

Also on Sunday, September 4, we welcome The Eclectiks back to the Plaza Stage. They are a local electric string band, whose instrumentation includes three violins, one cello, one guitar, a keyboard and flute. The music they play is a blend modern and old. Some of the folk tunes on their play list date to the 18th century.

The Eclectiks are: Mike Cohen, Violin; Regina Koenig, Violin; Charles Tolbert, Violin; Frances Eargle, Cello; Simona Patange, Flute; Pete Stover, Guitar; Steve Soroka, Keyboard; and Gary Daum, Bass Guitar

These performances are productions of the Silver Spring Town Center, Inc. Visit their blog atwww.silverspringtowncenter.blogspot.com, follow them on Twitter at www.twitter.com/sstowncenter or on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/groups/8305814081/

See our Plaza videos at http://www.youtube.com/user/TheTownCentre

See our Plaza pics at http://www.flickr.com/photos/alanbowser/collections/72157626644003377/

The Blackjacks Play Silver Spring's Veterans Plaza, Tuesday, September 6, 2011 at 7 pm. Free!

2011-08-30T10:41:00.007-04:00

Please join us for another exciting Plaza Performance as we welcome the Blackjacks to Veterans Plaza on Tuesday, September 6, 2011 at 7 pm. The performance is free!

This rock band began as an onstage group for Lumina Studio Theatre, and now can be seen playing in area venues such as McGinty's, where they will be playing Saturday October 15. With Roger Coleman, keys and guitar; Mark Felsenthal, guitar; David LeBow, bass; Stew Hickman, drums; and Amy Freedman & Wendy Lanxner, vocals.

These performances are productions of the Silver Spring Town Center, Inc. Visit our blog at www.silverspringtowncenter.blogspot.com, follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/sstowncenter or on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/groups/8305814081/

See our Plaza videos at http://www.youtube.com/user/TheTownCentre

See our Plaza pics at http://www.flickr.com/photos/alanbowser/collections/72157626644003377/

Wendy & the Lost Boys Perform on Veterans Plaza, Thursday, September 1, 2011 at 7 pm. Free!

2011-08-30T08:28:00.003-04:00

On August September 1, 2011, please join us for another exciting Plaza Performance on Silver Spring's Veterans Plaza when we welcome Wendy & the Lost Boys to the Plaza Stage!

"Wendy and the The Lost Boys" make their debut this Thursday from 7-9pm playing covers from Gaga to Zeppelin with a few originals in between. The band features Wendy Lanxner on bass, Rob Smith on drums, David Uffelman on lead vocals, and Steve Wilmarth on guitar.

Silver Spring's Veterans Plaza is located at the intersection of Fenton Street & Ellsworth Drive in downtown Silver Spring.

These performances are productions of the Silver Spring Town Center, Inc. Visit our blog at www.silverspringtowncenter.blogspot.com, follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/sstowncenter or on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/groups/8305814081/

See our Plaza videos at http://www.youtube.com/user/TheTownCentre

See our Plaza pics at http://www.flickr.com/photos/alanbowser/collections/72157626644003377/

CaShandra J. Plays Veterans Plaza, Tuesday, August 30th at 7 pm. Free!

2011-08-29T11:41:00.006-04:00

Please join us for another exciting Plaza Performance on Silver Spring's Veterans Plaza. On August 30, 2011, we welcome jazz vocalist CaShandra J. back to the Plaza Stage!

A singer’s singer, CaShandra J. exudes her love of music in every note that she sings. Born and raised in rural Texas, she had every opportunity to be immersed in and around music. CaShandra J. picked up her first instrument at the age of 7. Her mother and father purchased an upright piano and started her on lessons. “I can remember always wanting to play a musical instrument and when my parents offered me the chance to take piano lessons, I was thrilled!” It was only a few years later that she was also taking lessons for violin and clarinet and playing in school ensembles. “I must be honest, I never was the best musician in class but I loved music so much, I didn’t really care. Music was my escape from the daily rigors of my school life and the people I was around. I just wanted to be next to it.” By the time she was in high school, CaShandra J. longed to leave her hometown in hopes of finding some place where she could just be herself. “I managed to maintain my sanity by taking art classes, photography and choir. I enjoyed it so much that I knew my happiness lied in creating.”

After finishing high school in only 3 years, Cashandra J. took off to college in a small community near Dallas, TX to study fashion design. After two years, she quit to find other avenues of education and self-fulfillment. “That was such a rough time for me. I had no direction and it was as if the music left my life!”CaShandra J. pick up and move again. This time she moved to Austin, TX, which was known for it’s live music. “Austin livened up my spirits again. This city had such a diverse music culture and I was always being exposed to new forms of music.” It was in Austin that she decided to start dancing in an ethnic cultural dance company. The company’s house band let her sit in from time to time to do covers of soul music. It was those experiences that ignited her love of singing and refueled her passion for music.

After receiving her Bachelors in music at Howard University and performing at a host of venues, CaShandra J. is taking her love of music to a new level. Look forward to hearing her new project, Life in Techni-Color, which is wholly injected with jazzy licks and soulful lyrics, due out in 2011.

Visit her website at http://cashandraj.com/index.html

Silver Spring's Veterans Plaza is located at the intersection of Fenton Street & Ellsworth Drive in downtown Silver Spring.

These performances are productions of the Silver Spring Town Center, Inc. Visit our blog at www.silverspringtowncenter.blogspot.com, follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/sstowncenter or on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/groups/8305814081/

Phonic Riot, Pilesar At Pyramid Atlantic, Thursday, August 25, 2011, 7 pm. Free!

2011-08-24T18:33:00.004-04:00

N.B. Phonic Riot, Pilesar performance moved to Pyramid Atlantic, Georgia Avenue, Silver Spring, MD, 7 pm, due to weather.

Please join us for another exciting Plaza Performance as we welcome Phonic Riot and Pilesar to the Veterans Plaza Stage, Thursday, August 25, 2011 at 7 pm. The performance is free.

Phonic Riot is the brainchild of wailing banshee Angela Morrish creating a din described as "Psychodramaticgaragerock." For more information, check out www.phonicriot.bandcamp.com

Pilesar (pronounced pie-LEE-zur) is a one man band who specializes in idiosyncratic pop ditties, rhythmically dense compositions and wildly eclectic live shows. Instrumentation may include drums, vocals, live loops, broken effects pedals, thrift store finds, borrowed instruments and various environmental factors. He has released albums on Public Eyesore, zeromoon and his own DIY netlabel, Chameleon Dish Archives. For this performance, Pilesar will be joined by Daniel Euphrat on guitar.
For more information, check out www.pilesarmusic.com or www.pilesar.bandcamp.com

See their website for more info about Sonic Circuits and this event at http://dc-soniccircuits.org/calendar/show/97/2011-08-25-phonic-riot-pilesar-veterans-plaza/

Silver Spring's Veterans Plaza is located at the intersection of Fenton Street & Ellsworth Drive in downtown Silver Spring.

These performances are productions of the Silver Spring Town Center, Inc. Visit our blog at www.silverspringtowncenter.blogspot.com, follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/sstowncenter or on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/groups/8305814081/

Veterans Plaza Performance Canceled - Tuesday, August 23, 2011

2011-08-23T14:54:00.001-04:00

We are canceling this evening's Plaza Performance on Veterans Plaza, due to this afternoon's earthquake.

SwagFunk Plays Silver Spring's Veterans Plaza, Tuesday, August 23,2011 at 7 pm. Free!

2011-08-23T07:21:00.006-04:00

Please join us for another exciting Plaza Performance as we welcome SwagFunk back to the Plaza Stage. The performance will take place on August 23, 2011 at 7 pm on Silver Spring's Veterans Plaza.

SwagFunk is Deirdra Harris, Vocals; Daryl Braxton, Vocals & Keys; "Funk Master" Mike Sutton, Rhythm & Lead Guitar, Back Vocals; "Smokin" Al Warren, Drums & Percussion; "The Funk Doctor" Scott Eister, Bass & Percussion; and Brian A.C. Williams, Guitar.

Silver Spring's Veterans Plaza is located at the intersection of Fenton Street & Ellsworth Drive in downtown Silver Spring.

These performances are productions of the Silver Spring Town Center, Inc. Visit our blog at www.silverspringtowncenter.blogspot.com, follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/sstowncenter or on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/groups/8305814081/

Inaugural Silver Spring Town Center Arts Salon Debuts Thursday, August 25, 2011

2011-08-19T11:41:00.004-04:00

The Silver Spring Town Center, Inc. is pleased to announce the inaugural meeting of the Silver Spring Town Center Arts Salon on Thursday, August 25, 2011 at 12 noon!

What is a salon: An Italian invention of the 16th century, a salon is a gathering of people who are invited by a host to enjoy the exchange of creative energy. The goal of the SSTC Arts Salon is to encourage the cross-pollination of ideas and inspiration among artists of all disciplines, to promote networking, and to alleviate artistic isolation.

The Silver Spring Town Center Arts Salon will be hosted by Silver Spring resident Mary Amato, an author, poet, songwriter, musician, and playwright. http://www.maryamato.com/

Who’s invited: Fine artists, filmmakers, writers, musicians, photographers, graphic designers, playwrights, poets, and anyone interested in the creative process.

What to bring: Ideas, questions, stories, business cards for networking, and a brown bag lunch and/or drink, if desired.

Where to show up: Silver Spring Civic Building; One Veterans Plaza, Silver Spring, MD 20910 (We’ll meet in the Interior Courtyard.)

Each salon will have a different topic and will feature a guest artist who will begin the conversation. For August 25, our guest artist is Franklin Taggart, a musician, songwriter, music producer, fledgling designer and serial blogger in Silver Spring. He also is a professional coach specializing in helping people successfully transition into self-created, nontraditional careers. Check him out at http://franklintaggart.com. His topic--Wrestling Fear: How/when does fear appear? Can fear ever serve us? Understanding and using fear as a powerful ally.

Space is limited to twenty participants. To reserve a space, please RSVP via email to Mary Amato (info@maryamato.com).

These program is a production of the Silver Spring Town Center, Inc. Visit our blog at www.silverspringtowncenter.blogspot.com, follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/sstowncenter or on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/groups/8305814081/

The Fabulous Newports Play Silver Spring's Veterans Plaza, Sunday, August 21, 2011 at 2 pm. Free!

2011-08-19T10:28:00.002-04:00

One of D.C.’s most active bands in the 1960s, the Newports reorganized in 2001, and have been active again since playing for clubs and private affairs. The current lineup includes two original members plus six other veteran performers. The Newports play vintage rock ‘n’ roll at its very best, with great heart and authenticity, and feature numerous classic hits of the ‘50s and ‘60s.

The Newports will present a free outdoor concert in Silver Spring this Sunday afternoon, August 21! It takes place from 2:00 - 4:00, on the Veterans Plaza Stage of the Silver Spring Civic Building . And all three of the Filterettes will be singing--Becky Briggs too-- so look forward to a great afternoon!

Veterans Plaza features some bistro tables and seats, plus a wall where you can sit. But feel free to bring a lawn chair if you wish, and picnic food; there are also many restaurants within easy walking distance. We hope you can join us, and we’d love to see you!

Check out the Newports online at http://www.fabulousnewports.com/

Silver Spring's Veterans Plaza is located at the intersection of Fenton Street & Ellsworth Drive in downtown Silver Spring.

These performances are productions of the Silver Spring Town Center, Inc. Visit our blog at www.silverspringtowncenter.blogspot.com, follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/sstowncenter or on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/groups/8305814081/

Rocksteady Kid DJs on Veterans Plaza, Thursday, August 18, 2011, at 7 pm. Free!

2011-08-14T09:36:00.003-04:00

Get ready for the Rocksteady Kid, who will be serving up a healthy platter of classic Jamaican rocksteady, early reggae and dub stylings – 50 tunes that might change your life. Music begins at 7:00 pm this Thursday, August 18th on the Veterans Plaza outside the Silver Spring Civic Center.

Rocksteady Kid - Chris Richardson, as his mother knows him - has previously invaded the radio airwaves in Annapolis (WRNR), College Park (WMUC) and Chestertown (WKHS).

Silver Spring's Veterans Plaza is located at the intersection of Fenton Street & Ellsworth Drive in downtown Silver Spring.

These performances are productions of the Silver Spring Town Center, Inc. Visit our blog at www.silverspringtowncenter.blogspot.com, follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/sstowncenter or on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/groups/8305814081/

"One" - A Performance by the Urban Nation Academy for the Performing Arts

2011-08-14T09:03:00.003-04:00

Performing on the Veterans Plaza Stage, Urban Nation Academy for the Performing Arts students presented a musical review of Broadway show tunes, coupled with exciting hip-hop songs and dance.

The Broadway Meets Hip-Hop musical review is produced and directed by Dr. Rickey Payton, Sr., assisted by Artistic Director, Sherion Cosby, Acting Coach Lyndsay Rini, Music Director Glenn Pearson, Choreographer Shawn Cosby, Assistant Choreographer Roslyn Ramseur and Children's Coordinator Tomasena Allen. The performance band includes Glenn Pearson and Rickey Payton on keyboards, Kush El-Amin on bass and Michael Nicholas on percussion.

Broadway Meets Hip Hop - The Urban Nation Academy for the Performing Arts - Photos

2011-08-13T12:48:00.006-04:00

Performing on the Veterans Plaza Stage, Urban Nation Academy students presented a musical review of Broadway show tunes, coupled with exciting hip-hop tunes and dances.

The Urban Nation Academy for the Performing Arts is both a music and dance performing arts school located in the heart of the Arts District in Downtown Silver Spring, Md. They are dedicated to providing quality music and dance lessons to children and adults alike in a professional, nurturing, and student oriented environment. For information, check out their website at http://www.urbannationacademy.com

The Broadway Meets Hip-Hop musical review was produced and directed by Dr. Rickey Payton, Sr., assisted by Artistic Director, Sherion Cosby, Acting Coach Lyndsay Rini, Music Director Glenn Pearson, Choreographer Shawn Cosby, Assistant Choreographer Roslyn Ramseur and Children's Coordinator Tomasena Allen. The performance band includes Glenn Pearson and Rickey Payton on keyboards, Kush El-Amin on bass and Michael Nicholas on percussion.

See more pics at

Slide Show http://www.flickr.com/photos/alanbowser/sets/72157627299204307/show/

Detail http://www.flickr.com/photos/alanbowser/sets/72157627299204307/detail/

Thumbnails http://www.flickr.com/photos/alanbowser/sets/72157627299204307/

Mike Nicholas DJs on Silver Spring's Veterans Plaza, August 11, 2011 from 7 to 9 pm. Free!

2011-08-11T15:25:00.003-04:00

Please join us for another exciting Plaza Performance as we welcome DJ Mike Nicholas to the Plaza Stage on Thursday, August 11, 2011 from 7 to 9 pm.

Enjoy the quality entertainment of DJ Mike's extensive collection of oldies and current day hits.

Silver Spring's Veterans Plaza is located at the intersection of Fenton Street & Ellsworth Drive in downtown Silver Spring.

These performances are productions of the Silver Spring Town Center, Inc. Visit our blog at www.silverspringtowncenter.blogspot.com, follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/sstowncenter or on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/groups/8305814081/

The Red Line Quintet Plays Veterans Plaza, Tuesday, August 16, 2011 at 7 pm. Free!

2011-08-11T07:33:00.002-04:00

Please join us for another exciting Plaza Performance on Tuesday, August 16, 2011 when we welcome "The Red Line Quintet" to the Plaza Stage. The program is free.

Pulling from students from different sides of the Red Line, the Red Line Quintet is a self-sufficient jazz combo with members between 17 and 18 years old. The quintet plays a range of styles including swing, funk, Afro-Cuban, and contemporary, and features original arrangements and songs by its members. Past performances include Ike Leggett's Birthday Celebration, the Arts and Humanities Awards at Strathmore Hall, and the 2010 and 2011 Telluride Jazz Festivals in Colorado.

The Red Line Quintet is: Peter Leonard-Alto Saxophone; Kathryn Waychoff-Trumpet; Noah Maruyama-Keyboard; Grayson Flood-Bass Guitar; and Matt Volk-Drumset.

Silver Spring's Veterans Plaza is located at the intersection of Fenton Street & Ellsworth Drive in downtown Silver Spring.

These performances are productions of the Silver Spring Town Center, Inc. Visit our blog at www.silverspringtowncenter.blogspot.com, follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/sstowncenter or on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/groups/8305814081/

Singer, Songwriter, Guitarist Gina DeSimone & the Moaners on Veterans Plaza, Tuesday, August 9 at 7 pm. Free

2011-08-09T10:27:00.005-04:00

Please join us for another exciting Plaza Performance on Silver Spring's Veterans Plaza. On Tuesday, August 9, 2011 at 7pm, we welcome Gina DeSimone to the Plaza Stage.

Born and raised in the Silver Spring area, Gina picked up the guitar at age 9 and began taking lessons at a local music store. “I wanted drums,” she explains, “but my parents gave me a guitar instead. Turns out I love playing guitar, but I think my songs are so rhythmically oriented because there’s a bit of drummer in me.” As a teenager, Gina broke the stereotype of the female folk guitarist by playing lead guitar in rock bands. Today she backs up many of the area’s finest songwriters and bands. She began a lifetime of guitar teaching when the same local music store where she learned guitar called to ask if she was interested in teaching. In addition, to running a studio of dedicated students, she continues honing her skills by taking lessons from master guitarists like Al Petteway, Del Rey, Steve James and Mary Flower.

This year, Gina DeSimone was the featured acoustic blues player at the 3rd Annual Silver Spring Blues Festival. She also joined the Archie Edwards Blues Ensemble at the Festival's Market Stage.

Check her out online at http://www.myspace.com/ginadandthemoaners or at http://mysite.verizon.net/gina.d/gina/index.htm

Silver Spring's Veterans Plaza is located at the intersection of Fenton Street & Ellsworth Drive in downtown Silver Spring.

These performances are productions of the Silver Spring Town Center, Inc. Visit our blog at www.silverspringtowncenter.blogspot.com, follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/sstowncenter or on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/groups/8305814081/

Broadway Meets Hip-Hop! On Silver Spring’s Veterans Plaza, August 10-12, 2011

2011-08-07T15:17:00.005-04:00

Please join us for another exciting Plaza Performance on Wednesday, August 10, 2011 at 7 pm, when we welcome students from the Urban Nation Academy For the Performing Arts Summer Camp to Silver Spring’s Veterans Plaza.

Performing on the Plaza Stage, the Urban Nation Academy students will present a musical review of Broadway show tunes, coupled with exciting hip-hop tunes and dances.

The Urban Nation Academy for the Performing Arts is both a music and dance performing arts school located in the heart of the newly refurbished Arts District in Downtown Silver Spring, Md. They are dedicated to providing quality music and dance lessons to children and adults alike in a professional, nurturing, and student oriented environment. For information, check out their website at http://www.urbannationacademy.com/

The program will also be presented at 12 noon on Wednesday, August 10, 2011, Thursday, August 11, and Friday, August 12.

The Broadway Meets Hip-Hop musical review is produced and directed by Dr. Rickey Payton, Sr., assisted by Artistic Director, Sherion Cosby, Acting Coach Lyndsay Rini, Music Director Glenn Pearson, Choreographer Shawn Cosby, Assistant Choreographer Roslyn Ramseur and Children's Coordinator Tomasena Allen. The performance band includes Glenn Pearson and Rickey Payton on keyboards, Kush El-Amin on bass and Michael Nicholson on percussion.

Silver Spring's Veterans Plaza is located at the intersection of Fenton Street & Ellsworth Drive in downtown Silver Spring.

These performances are productions of the Silver Spring Town Center, Inc. Visit our blog at www.silverspringtowncenter.blogspot.com, follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/sstowncenter or on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/groups/8305814081/

Visit the Silver Spring Town Center's YouTube page

2011-08-07T11:18:00.003-04:00

Visit the Silver Spring Town Center's YouTube page. Vote for your favorite Plaza Performance.

Visit our blog at www.silverspringtowncenter.blogspot.com, follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/sstowncenter or on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/groups/8305814081/

Warner Williams & Joyce Ettingoff Play Silver Spring's Veterans Plaza

2011-08-06T09:03:00.004-04:00

Guitarist and songster Warner Williams is one of the greatest unsung heroes of the Piedmont blues—an Eastern seaboard style that incorporates fiddle tunes, ballads, country and popular songs, ragtime, and gospel. With a jaunty rhythmic finger-picked guitar style and an eclectic repertoire that ranges from blues to honky-tonk, jazz crooning to children's songs, Warner Williams is an old-style community entertainer of national significance. Joining Warner Williams on the Plaza is harmonica player Joyce Ettingoff from Silver Spring.

In this clip, Warner and Joyce play Take It Slow, Danny Boy, Honeysuckle Rose, and One Day at a Time.

These performances are productions of the Silver Spring Town Center, Inc. See more Plaza Performances at http://www.youtube.com/user/TheTownCentre#grid/user/54B3D9F47094BE13

Visit our blog at www.silverspringtowncenter.blogspot.com, follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/sstowncenter or on Facebook.

Silver Spring's Veterans Plaza is located at the intersection of Fenton Street & Ellsworth Drive in downtown Silver Spring.

The Blues Ramblers Play Silver Spring's Veterans Plaza, Sunday, August 7, 2011, at 6 pm. Free!

2011-08-06T08:00:00.004-04:00

Please join us for another exciting Plaza Performance on Silver Spring's Veterans Plaza. On Sunday, August 7, 2001 at 6 pm, we welcome The Blues Ramblers to the Plaza Stage.

The Blues Ramblers are Slim Fellows on Keyboards and vocals; Anton (Ace the Bass) Hannsman on Bass and vocals; Gary Venable on Drums; and Alan Gramley on Guitar and vocals.

They play an eclectic group of tunes consisting of jazz and blues standards, funk, some rockin' types of blues, reggae, ballads, etc.

Silver Spring's Veterans Plaza is located at the intersection of Fenton Street & Ellsworth Drive in downtown Silver Spring.

These performances are productions of the Silver Spring Town Center, Inc. Visit our blog at www.silverspringtowncenter.blogspot.com, follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/sstowncenter or on Facebook.

Warner Williams, Jonny Grave, Joyce Ettingoff on Silver Spring's Veterans Plaza, Thursday, August 4, 2011, 7 pm. Free!

2011-08-02T17:07:00.004-04:00

Enjoy the acoustic blues guitar magic of Warner Williams & Jonny Grave on Silver Spring's Veterans Plaza, Thursday, August 4, 2011 at 7 pm. The performance is free.

The Silver Spring Town Center, Inc. is proud to present two guitar masters for your listening pleasure: Jonny Grave & Warner Williams.

Guitarist and songster Warner Williams is one of the greatest unsung heroes of the Piedmont blues—an Eastern seaboard style that incorporates fiddle tunes, ballads, country and popular songs, ragtime, and gospel. With a jaunty rhythmic finger-picked guitar style and an eclectic repertoire that ranges from blues to honky-tonk, jazz crooning to children’s songs, Warner Williams is an old-style community entertainer of national significance.

Jonny Grave's music is true acoustic blues from the Heartland, steeped in the traditions of R.L. Burnside, Fred McDowell and others. Unlike the more common Delta variety, Grave’s blues hails from the North Mississippi hill country, like the music of Bukka White and Junior Kimbrough. As a solo acoustic bluesman, Grave maintains a traditional grip on the genre while seamlessly adding a modern twist, incorporating the singer-songwriter, bluegrass, and Americana genres into the recipe.

Both six and twelve-string guitar, Dobro, and Appalachian fretless banjo (made by Grave himself) make up his repertoire of sound. Grave began playing guitar in his early adolescence, and quickly picked up the slide guitar technique from watching Washington DC bluesman Robert Lighthouse perform. Grave performs fingerstyle guitar (without flat picks) and emulates the styles of Leo Kottke, John Fahey and Chris Smither.

Joing Warner Williams & Jonny Grave will be Joyce Ettingoff of Silver Spring-- a wonderful harmonica player who plays throughout the metro Washington region, often with the band The Traveling BlueJayes.

Silver Spring's Veterans Plaza is located at the intersection of Fenton Street & Ellsworth Drive in downtown Silver Spring.

These performances are productions of the Silver Spring Town Center, Inc. Visit our blog at www.silverspringtowncenter.blogspot.com, follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/sstowncenter or on Facebook.

Don Muller performs on Silver Spring's Veterans Plaza, Tuesday, August 2, 2011, 7 pm. Free!

2011-08-02T09:50:00.002-04:00

Please join us tonight for another exciting Plaza Performance on Silver Spring's Veterans Plaza. On August 2, 2011, we welcome local singer/songwriter Don Muller to the Plaza Stage. The performance is free!

Don Muller's music is folk rock, indie, and progressive, influenced by the Beatles, Yes, Jethro Tull, Eddie from Ohio, Les Paul, and the Smithereens. Learn more about Don, hear his music by visiting his website at https://sites.google.com/site/mullsmusicsite/home or checking out Don Muller on MySpace http://www.myspace.com/donmuller

Silver Spring's Veterans Plaza is located at the intersection of Fenton Street & Ellsworth Drive in downtown Silver Spring.

These performances are productions of the Silver Spring Town Center, Inc. Visit our blog at www.silverspringtowncenter.blogspot.com, follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/sstowncenter or on Facebook.

Trip to Pakistan - The Eclectiks on Veterans Plaza

2011-07-29T17:59:00.007-04:00

The Eclectiks are a local electric string band, whose instrumentation includes three violins, one cello, one guitar, a keyboard and flute. The music they play is a blend of modern and old. Some of the folk tunes on their play list date to the 18th century.

The Eclectiks are Mike Cohen, Violin; Regina Koenig, Violin; Charles Tolbert, Violin; Frances Eargle, Cello; Simona Patange, Flute; Pete Stover, Guitar; Steve Soroka, Keyboard; Gary Daum, Bass Guitar.

For more Plaza Performances videos by the Silver Spring Town Center, visit our YouTube Channel here.

The Thrill Is Gone - Boomerang

2011-07-29T17:58:00.003-04:00

Boomerang is an old-time rock & roll band whose set list includes such classics as Walkin' the Dog, Devil with the Blue Dress On, Slow Down, Don't Fight It, Love Rocket, You Can't Do That, Gimme 3 Steps, Rainy Night in Georgia, Mustang Sally, Sharp Dressed Man, Money, Louie Louie, Pretty Woman, Let It Bleed, Burnin' Love, Little Sister, and Feelin' Alright. Boomerang is John Brown (bass and vocals), Cap Pendleton (guitar and vocals), Hank Burnett (drums and vocals), and Gary Garvin (guitar).

For more Plaza Performances videos by the Silver Spring Town Center, visit our YouTube Channel here.

I'll Get To Heaven On My Own - Cooking with Gas

2011-07-29T17:57:00.003-04:00

Cooking With Gas serves fine acoustic music featuring generous portions of blues spiced with jazz, gospel, swing and folk. CWG has played at the Washington Folk Festival and the Silver Spring Blues Festival. The members of Cooking with Gas are Jim Bunch (washtub bass, washboard), Marcus Childs Moore (fiddle, vocals), David Oziel (guitar, vocals), David Rothman (harmonica, vocals), Bob Sherman (guitar, vocals) and guests. For more information, visit their website at http://www.facebook.com/cookingwithgasmusic

For more Plaza Performances videos by the Silver Spring Town Center, visit our YouTube Channel here.

House of the Rising Sun - The Traveling Bluejayes

2011-07-29T17:54:00.004-04:00

The Traveling Bluejayes performed on Silver Spring's Veterans Plaza on July 3, 2011. They're a great band that plays folk, rock, rockabilly, originals, and blues. The band members are Arlene Jaye, George Hardman, Karen Hardman, Rick Kanton, Michelle Murray, and Joyce Ettingoff.

For more Plaza Performances videos by the Silver Spring Town Center, visit our YouTube Channel here.

The Second String Bluegrass Band - Emmett Overstreet, Earl Williams & Paul Young

2011-07-29T17:47:00.004-04:00

Emmett Overstreet, Earl Williams, and the late Ron Krupka formed the Second String Bluegrass Band over 30 years ago. The band, which was active from 1981 to 2004, has had from three to five members and instrumentation including rhythm guitar, five-string banjo, Dobro guitar, lead guitar, fiddle, mandolin, and string bass. Paul Young joined the group in the late 1990s. The band's repertoire is heavily influenced by the music of bluegrass pioneers such as Lester Flatt & Earl Scruggs and Bill Monroe. Folk songs, country songs, and instrumentals round out the repertoire.

For more Plaza Performances videos by the Silver Spring Town Center, visit our YouTube Channel here.

SwagFunk, Cloud 9 Return to Veterans Plaza, Sunday, July 31,2011. Free!

2011-07-27T16:30:00.006-04:00

Please join us for more exciting Plaza Performance on Silver Spring's Veterans Plaza! On Sunday, July 31, we welcome "SwagFunk" to the Plaza Stage, at 6 pm. And we welcome "Cloud 9" back to the Plaza Stage for a repeat performance. These performances are free!

SwagFunk! Formed in the 1990s, SwagFunk's original band name was "Equinnox and the Mary Groove." The band consisted of the current lead singer/drummer Danny Gorman, guitarist/bassist Brian A.C. Williams, and Thomas Johnson on guitar. With the departure of Thomas Johnson from the group, the band took a break for a while until Danny decided to hold a jam session with a few new musicians. Al Warren was immediately recruited, based on previous projects with Brian. Guitarist Mike Sutton came on board to replace Thomas Johnson. Scott Eister soon joined to hold down and work the bass guitar. The band has been playing at large and small venues since 2008. The present band consists of: Deirdra Harris Vocals, Daryl Braxton: Vocals & Keys, "Funk Master" Mike Sutton: Rhythm & Lead Guitar, Back Vocals, "Smokin" Al Warren: Drums & Percussion, "The Funk Doctor" Scott Eister Bass & Percussion, Brian A.C. Williams Guitar. The band has recently been featured at the Fenton Street Market.

Cloud 9! We're pleased to announce that Cloud 9 will return to perform on Silver Spring's Veterans Plaza on Sunday, July 3 at 2 pm as part of the Plaza Performances series.

"From the ever growing urban setting of the DMV (Laurel, Maryland to be more specific) comes a new iconic band, Cloud 9. Cloud 9 is a group that embodies positive change and advocates artistic integrity. Opposing the negative impact of commercial music in today's world, Cloud 9 ironically brings a fresh down to earth sound. Their music can hardly be classified, as they merge different genres to create music that appeals to the masses. The group started in April 2009 as 4 teens trying to win their high school talent show, and has now evolved into a 6 member super group.

On the roster they have: Michael "TK" Akinlosotu - Lead Vocals; Adam Dunbar - Electric Guitar ; Jason Zamora - Piano and Synth; Jonathan Livas - Drums; Timm Cruz - Bass Guitar and Jordan McRae - Saxophone.

Cloud 9 played Veterans Plaza for SSTCi in April 2011.

Silver Spring's Veterans Plaza is located at the intersection of Fenton Street & Ellsworth Drive in downtown Silver Spring.

These performances are productions of the Silver Spring Town Center, Inc. Visit our blog at www.silverspringtowncenter.blogspot.com, follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/sstowncenter or on Facebook.

Fillmore Silver Spring opens with Mary J. Blige on Sept. 15 - Washington Post

2011-07-22T10:47:00.000-04:00

By Chris Richards, Friday, July 22, 12:05 AM

It’ll be an evening fit for a queen — namely, the queen of hip-hop soul.

The Fillmore Silver Spring will finally open its doors Sept. 15 with a performance from R&B great Mary J. Blige — the first in a handful of concerts the venue is announcing on its Web site Friday. Tickets for the Blige show go on sale July 29 at 10 a.m. through Ticketmaster. Other notable acts on the schedule include Black Star, Blondie, Primus, Cheap Trick and Louis Black.

The 2,000-capacity venue is scheduled to open nearly four years after Live Nation, the world’s largest producer of concerts, sealed a deal to build one of its Fillmore venues on Colesville Road, near Georgia Avenue, where a J.C. Penney department store once stood.

Now, after years of red tape and construction, the venue is promising big names and a wide variety of entertainment offerings.

“We’re working to make this venue representative of the really rich diversity that’s in this region and in Silver Spring in particular,” says Stephanie Steele, the Fillmore Silver Spring’s general manager.

Fans can expect R&B singers, classic rockers, country acts, alternative-rock bands, rock en Espanol groups, comedians, local musicians and collaborations with the Fillmore’s across-the-street-neighbor, the AFI Silver Theatre. The Fillmore will also be available for private events.

Steele says the general-admission, all-ages club will be open three to five nights a week to start, with hopes of booking all seven nights in the future. Concerts will finish in time for patrons to catch the last Red Line trains out of the nearby Silver Spring Metro station.

Music fans can preview the space Sept. 13 at an evening open house.

The original Fillmore in San Francisco became a legendary hub for psychedelic rock in the 1960s, hosting the Doors, Jefferson Airplane, the Grateful Dead and countless others. Since then, the venue has spawned into a Live Nation-owned chain with locations in Denver, Detroit, Miami and Charlotte. Live Nation rebranded New York City’s Irving Plaza with the Fillmore name in 2007 but bent to pressure from fans and switched it back in 2010.

The promotion company says its newest Fillmore is here to stay.

“We’re in it for the long haul, says Arich Berghammer, the Fillmore’s executive vice president of clubs and theaters for North America. “We have the full expectation that in 20 years, we’re going to renew the lease for another 20 years.”

© The Washington Post Company

The Eclectiks perform on Silver Spring's Veterans Plaza, Tuesday, July 26, 2011 at 7 pm. Free

2011-07-21T15:26:00.004-04:00

On Tuesday, July 26, 2011, at 7 pm, we welcome The Eclectics to the Plaza Stage. The performance is free! The Eclectiks are a local electric string band, whose instrumentation includes three violins, one cello, one guitar, a keyboard and flute. The music they play is a blend of modern and old. Some of the folk tunes on their play list date to the 18th century. Past performance venues have included: Caribou Coffee House in Rock Creek Village, Rockville, the Gazebo in Takoma Park, the Gaithersburg Band Shell, the Co-Housing apartments in Silver Spring, and a benefit for preserving of the old Takoma Park Theater.

The Eclectiks are:

Mike Cohen, Violin
Regina Koenig, Violin
Charles Tolbert, Violin
Frances Eargle, Cello
Simona Patange, Flute
Pete Stover, Guitar
Steve Soroka, Keyboard
Gary Daum, Bass Guitar

Silver Spring's Veterans Plaza is located at the intersection of Fenton Street & Ellsworth Drive in downtown Silver Spring, Maryland. Click here for map and directions!

These performances are productions of the Silver Spring Town Center, Inc. Visit their blog atwww.silverspringtowncenter.blogspot.com, follow them on Twitter at www.twitter.com/sstowncenter or on Facebook.

Enjoy Boomerang on Veterans Plaza, Sunday, July 24 at 2 pm. Free.

2011-07-21T14:54:00.003-04:00

Please join us for another exciting performances on Silver Spring’s Veterans Plaza. On Sunday, July 24, 2011 at 2 pm, we welcome Boomerang to the Plaza Stage. The performance is free!

Boomerang is an old-time rock & roll band whose set list includes such classics as Walkin' the Dog, Devil with the Blue Dress On, Slow Down, Don't Fight It, Love Rocket, You Can't Do That, Gimme 3 Steps, Rainy Night in Georgia, Mustang Sally, Sharp Dressed Man, Money, Louie Louie, Pretty Woman, Let It Bleed, Burnin' Love, Little Sister, and Feelin' Alright. Boomerang is John Brown (bass and vocals), Cap Pendleton (guitar and vocals), Hank Burnett (drums and vocals), and Gary Garvin (guitar).

For information, check out their website at http://www.boomerang-md.com/index.html

These performances are productions of the Silver Spring Town Center, Inc. Visit their blog atwww.silverspringtowncenter.blogspot.com, follow them on Twitter at www.twitter.com/sstowncenter or on Facebook.

Plaza Performances Coming Up! Boomerang on Sunday, July 24th, and The Eclectics on Tuesday, July 26!

2011-07-21T14:26:00.005-04:00

Please join us for two exciting performances on Silver Spring’s Veterans Plaza!

On Sunday, July 24, 2011 at 2 pm, we welcome Boomerang to the Plaza Stage. The performance is free!

Boomerang is an old-time rock & roll band whose set list includes such classics as Walkin' the Dog, Devil with the Blue Dress On, Slow Down, Don't Fight It, Love Rocket, You Can't Do That, Gimme 3 Steps, Rainy Night in Georgia, Mustang Sally, Sharp Dressed Man, Money, Louie Louie, Pretty Woman, Let It Bleed, Burnin' Love, Little Sister, and Feelin' Alright. Boomerang is John Brown (bass and vocals), Cap Pendleton (guitar and vocals), Hank Burnett (drums and vocals), and Gary Garvin (guitar).

For more information, check out their website

On Tuesday, July 26, 2011, at 7 pm, we welcome The Eclectics to the Plaza Stage. The performance is free! The Eclectics are a local electric string band, whose instrumentation includes three violins, one cello, one guitar, a keyboard and flute. The music they play is a blend modern and old. Some of the folk tunes on their play list date to the 18th century. Past performance venues have included; Caribou Coffee House in Rock Creek Village, Rockville, the Gazebo in Takoma Park, the Gaithersburg Band Shell, the Co-Housing apartments in Silver Spring, and a benefit for preserving of the old Takoma Park Theater.

These performances are productions of the Silver Spring Town Center, Inc. Visit their blog atwww.silverspringtowncenter.blogspot.com, follow them on Twitter at www.twitter.com/sstowncenter or on Facebook.

Montgomery Channel Presents Silver Spring Blues Festival

2011-07-16T14:33:00.001-04:00

Watch the promo! See Montgomery Channel's broadcast schedule for the Silver Spring Blues Festival.

See The Unruly Blues Band & Banjer Dan on Silver Spring's Veterans Plaza, July 17th and July 19th. Free

2011-07-14T10:36:00.010-04:00

Please join us for two exciting Plaza Performances on Silver Spring’s Veterans Plaza, as we welcome The Unruly Blues Band on Sunday, July 17th, and Banjer Dan, on Tuesday, July 19th. The performances are free.

On Sunday, July 17, 2011, the Unruly Blues Band will play Veterans Plaza, 2-4 pm. the performance is free. “Unruly Blues" is derived from both an eclectic blues-inspired musical style and their fun-filled antics on (and off) stage. Their music has many flavors of blues from Swing, Rumba, Zydeco, Rock and Country. They also play Chicago, Delta and Memphis style blues.

Saskia, the lead singer, is known for her unique way of connecting with audiences and acting while singing. Unruly Blues' song list and on-stage presence provide a fun and memorable experience for anyone who likes to listen and move to blues-inspired grooves.

For more information about the Unruly Blues Band, visit their website and read this article in Frederick Magazine.

On Tuesday, July 19, at 7 pm. we welcome BanjerDan to the Plaza Stage. The performance is free. BanjerDan (Dan Mazer) is a banjo player and multi-instrumental performer based in the Washington, DC area. His style is an Americana mix, rooted in straight-ahead bluegrass and branching into many musical genres. Since taking up music in 1974, Dan has performed in almost every imaginable situation, in the U.S. and overseas, from busking, coffeehouses and bar gigs to musical theater productions, theme parks, children’s shows, studio work and solo strolling appearances, and even symphonic concertizing. He received his Bachelor’s degree in Music Theory from George Washington University in 1984, and has played in numerous bands, including J.B. Beverley & the Wayward Drifters, The Jackstraws, Rockcreek, and D.J. and the C.B. Pickers.

BanjerDan’s first CD, “Old Stuff,” was released in January 2001. “Old Stuff” features some of the finest pickers and singers in the bluegrass/acoustic field, including Mike Auldridge, Jimmy Gaudreau, Pete Kennedy, Dave Giegerich, Tom Gray and Moondi Klein. Dan’s banjo, mandolin and dobro work appears on CDs by J.B. Beverley & the Wayward Drifters, The McGinley Family Gospel Singers, Dead Men's Hollow, Ubiquitone, D.J. and the C.B. Pickers, Tim Flannery, Teagen McClain, James Durst, Joe Ross, and Honky Tonk Confidential.

In addition to performing music, Dan is a journalist and music teacher. His articles have appeared in Bluegrass Unlimited, Acoustic Musician, Banjo Newsletter, and other magazines. In addition to solo work as BanjerDan, Dan Mazer is a member of J.B. Beverley & The Wayward Drifters. Visit his website at http://www.myspace.com/banjerdan

These performances are productions of the Silver Spring Town Center, Inc. Visit their blog at www.silverspringtowncenter.blogspot.com, follow them on Twitter at www.twitter.com/sstowncenter or on Facebook.

Silver Spring officials seek to keep arts and entertainment district designation - Gazette

2011-07-13T16:36:00.000-04:00

Title, set to expire in 2012, provides tax breaks and incentives to arts organizations

by Jeanette Der Bedrosian, Staff Writer, Wednesday, July 13, 2011

In the nearly 10 years since Silver Spring was designated Montgomery County’s first arts and entertainment district, the area has become a destination for festivals, high-caliber music performances and community theaters.

Now, county officials are drafting an application to keep the designation around for another decade.

The designation provides tax breaks and other incentives for businesses, theaters, arts nonprofits and other organizations to plant roots in Silver Spring. But as far as the area has come, there still is work to be done, residents and officials said at a forum Tuesday on the redesignation.

“The development of Silver Spring is incomplete, and there’s more work to be done,” said Alan Bowser, president of Silver Spring Town Center Inc., a nonprofit that plans programs for the Silver Spring Civic Building and Veterans Plaza. “The redesignation of Silver Spring as an arts and entertainment district would help that work be done by bringing more business and arts to the Silver Spring community.”

On the to-do list is expanding arts programs and organizations outside the central business district and into Cameron Street, South Silver Spring and Fenton Village, he said. Eugenia Park, a resident who spoke at Tuesday’s meeting, said she wants to see a community ballroom dance space.

Having the title is beneficial for a district because it exempts certain taxpayers from the county amusement tax and allows property tax credits for certain renovated buildings, according to county law. There are 19 such districts in Maryland, including Bethesda, Wheaton and Silver Spring in Montgomery County.

Tina Benjamin, director of special projects within the county’s Department of Economic Development, said the county needs to submit its application to the state by Oct. 1. The application includes narratives of how Silver Spring has evolved, maps and lists of private and public properties within the district and lists of signature events and festivals, among other things. The Maryland Department of Business and Economic Development is charged with deciding whether to award the title for another 10 years, she said.

Silver Spring has grown as a cultural destination location during its tenure as an arts and entertainment district, many at the meeting said.

The area has attracted the AFI Silver Theatre, Round House Theatre, Lumina Studio Theatre, Bonifant Theatre Space, Pyramid Atlantic Art Center and the Fillmore music hall -- to name a few. That’s not including informal performances that take place on Veterans Plaza or in restaurants.

“People have been excited by what we have to offer here,” said Mike Diegel, a member of the Silver Spring Arts and Entertainment Advisory Committee. “We’re getting a growing reputation as a place of destination for this kind of thing, and the word spreads. That’s the kind of thing we want to continue to encourage.”

Bowser said cultural events help bring Silver Spring’s cultures together and make Silver Spring attractive to all businesses, arts-themed or otherwise.

Many at the meeting said they couldn’t imagine Silver Spring not receiving the redesignation.

“We’ve got a critical mass already, and I think it will be hard to stop our momentum, but...everything is really only truly coming together now,” Bowser said. “It’s hard to see how anyone would look unfavorably on the application, because we’ve been so successful thus far.”

jderbedrosian@gazette.net

Jamming to a new beat in Silver Spring - Old Time music groups join Fenton Street Market - Gazette

2011-07-12T07:12:00.002-04:00

by Kristi Tousignant, Staff Writer, July 10, 2011

Some old world tunes met new world capitalism Saturday as mandolin, banjo and accordion players jammed out at the Fenton Street Market in Silver Spring.

The Old Time Music Jam played on Veterans Plaza while shoppers browsed through booths of antiques and handmade jewelry.

Although there were just five jam musicians at the market Saturday, the group usually has about nine or 10 people playing and has had as many as 20 show up at once to pluck their strings or tap a drum. Saturday featured two mandolin players, a guitar, a banjo and an accordion. There usually are a few fiddlers and a bass player that often join in as well, said member John Bobkin of Silver Spring, who plays the mandolin.

“It’s really a social thing,” Bobkin said. “I get out of my house and hang out with friends. It keeps you getting together.”

The Old Time Music Jam is just one act in a series of artists playing at the Fenton Street Market this season. Organizers decided to include live music at the market to draw in more people, said Fenton Street Market founder Hannah McCann.

“We are very excited, because this is a community grassroots effort, which is what the Fenton Street Market is all about,” she said.

Around 60 vendors sell their wares every Saturday at the market, which McCann started in fall 2009. This season, the market is hosting about two to three music acts every Saturday, said Chantelle Stewart, who coordinates the entertainment.

“Live music brings all different types of people to the market,” Stewart said.

The music groups help draw in customers and further develop the community atmosphere the market seeks to create, McCann said.

“People stop and linger, and that is the other thing the market is all about,” McCann said. “It’s a community gathering spot.”

For Bobkin, though, it’s just about the fun. The Old Time Music Jam is casually organized, and anyone who shows up can sit and play. There are no practices, just performances in public.

“It keeps you learning and practicing,” said member Ryan Powell of Hyattsville, who plays accordion.

When musicians swing by and join the open music circle, they can either use the sheet music provided by the group or jump in and play by ear, Bobkin said.

“I think it’s just nice,” said member Kurt Bauman of Kensington, who plays banjo. “It keeps me practicing,”

The group was founded by players originally involved with Friends of Old Time Banjo, a jam group with members across the Washington, D.C., metro area.
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Old Time music is a genre of American folk music with Celtic and Scottish origins. A lot of the time, children will gather around the group and dance, Bauman said.

“It’s really meant for dancing, and kids pick up on that right away,” Bauman said.

The Old Time Music Jam will be playing again at the Fenton Street Market on Aug. 20 and Oct. 9. The market is located at One Veterans Plaza and takes place 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturdays until early October.

ktousignant@gazette.net

Click here for online version.

Time2Go performs on Silver Spring's Veterans Plaza, July 12, 2011, 7 pm! Free.

2011-07-11T12:46:00.002-04:00

Please join us for another exciting Plaza Performance on Silver Spring's Veterans Plaza. On Tuesday, July 12, 2011, at 7 pm. we are pleased to welcome Time2Go to the Plaza Stage. The performance is free!

Time2Go is a teenage "classic rock" band that has been playing together since December 2010. Band members are Guitar and Vocals: Joey Barnet; Guitar and Vocals: Jeremy Gordon; Drums: Doug Kahn; and Bass: Ian Schwenke

The performance is a production of the Silver Spring Town Center, Inc. Visit their blog at www.silverspringtowncenter.blogspot.com, follow them on Twitter at www.twitter.com/sstowncenter or on Facebook.

Betty Mae Kramer Gallery Launches New Exhibition – Opening Reception on Sunday, July 10, 2011

2011-07-10T09:23:00.002-04:00

WHO: Artists: Jorge Bernal, Joanne Bleichner, Florence Gang,Diane Mesirow

WHAT: “On theEdge,” an exhibition featuring the works of four Montgomery County painters

WHEN: On display from Monday, July 11 to Monday, October 3, 2011. Opening reception on Sunday,July 10 from 2:00 to 4:00 PM.

The gallery is open Monday through Friday, 9 AM to 6 PM.

WHERE: Betty Mae Kramer Gallery and Music Room, Silver Spring Civic Building, One Veterans Place, Silver Spring, MD 20910

PRICE: Addmission to the gallery and reception is free.

SILVER SPRING, MD(July 6, 2011) — Arts and Humanities Council of Montgomery County (AHCMC) announces the opening of “On the Edge,” a new exhibition at the Betty Mae Kramer Gallery and Music Room inside the Silver Spring Civic Building in downtown Silver Spring.The opening reception will be held Sunday, July 10 from 2:00 to 4:00 pm at the Gallery. The public is invited to this free event.

“On theEdge” features four local artists working in oil, acrylic and encaustic. These artists were selected in a juried process based on the excellence of their work. For each of these artists, the use of lines and the edges where one color meets another define their work.

Jorge Bernal uses encaustic (hotwax) paintings with dark straight lines and strong colors to create powerful abstracts. The edges that divide Joanne Bleichner’s anatomical tree limbs from their backgrounds of sky and forest create commanding images that make the viewer think of trees in a whole new way. Florence Gang pours acrylic ink on canvasor paper and adds opaque lines to create flowing abstracts. The hard edges of Diane Mesirow’s buildings and commercial sites are drawn free hand to create stark contrasts that are simultaneously landscapes and abstracts.

ABOUT THE ARTISTS

An interdisciplinary artist working in mixed-media painting and collage/assemblage, Jorge Bernal was born in Havana and raised in Jersey City. He received a BFA in ceramics and art history from Florida International University and an MFA in architecture from Virginia Tech. Recently, he has been focusing on encaustic monotypes. His work is inspired by a variety of interests: the exhilaration of color, texture and space, fragmenting architectural images influenced by his architectural training and interpreting human emotions, biblical texts and spirituality. Bernal’s work is greatly influenced by Gottlieb, Rothko and Kandinsky. He says that this artwork explores the realms and depths of his dreams, beliefs, spirituality and his daily life journey. These compositions represent personal archetypes communicated through historical,architectural and mythological symbolism. His goal is for a story to unfold through layered abstractions.

Joanne Kephart Bleichner graduated from the University of Maryland with a degree in Studio Art and Art History and was the recipient of the Colonel James P. Wharton Award for Excellence in Art. For the past 25 years, she has taught hundreds of Montgomery County students at her private studio, inspiring many to art-related studies and careers. She draws and photographs bare tree limbs and roots, acknowledging their anatomical resemblance and relationship to their surroundings of sky,ground and forest. As a painter, she focuses on leafless trees through which she explores composition, color and brushwork. The contour or edge of the lines of the branches creates friction with the surrounding space by their shape,texture and color. Bleichner is drawn to the inherent strength and dignity of trees as a subject to be contrasted with varied backgrounds that evoke diverse moods.

Florence Gang has been active in the Washington area art scene for over 30 years and has exhibited at the Katzen Art Gallery, Rockville Art League, Glenview Mansion and Strathmore Mansion. She has a degree in Art History and Studio Art from American University and did graduate studies at the University of Maryland, the Corcoran Gallery and with William Christenberry, Mindy Weisel and Michaele Harrington. Her work is unplanned and intuitive. She interacts with the color and medium. Her work derives from personal experience, emotion, memory and a definite solution apart from conscious thought. Gang hopes the viewer shares some of the excitement she feels during its creation.

Diane Mesirow has studied art for over forty years, including extensive study with Doris Haskel. Prior to that, she took watercolor classes and workshops with various artists until she realized that oil painting was her love. She has participated in many group and solo shows, and her work has been represented by agents and galleries. Mesirow is interested in showing the beauty in buildings,farms, and other architectural shapes. She loves color and order, happiness and, yes, humor in her paintings. Mesirow says that she wants to bring joy and a smile to those who view her work.

ABOUT THE BETTY MAE KRAMER GALLERY AND MUSIC ROOM

The Betty Mae Kramer Gallery and Music Room is a tribute to the former First Lady of Montgomery County who passed away in March 2010. Mrs. Kramer was an active arts patron and performing arts. She led the volunteer efforts to establish the Executive’s Ball for the Benefit of the Arts in 1986 when her husband, the Honorable Sidney Kramer,was elected County Executive. Since then, the Ball has raised more than $1 million to benefit a variety of non profitarts and humanities organizations.

Arts and Humanities Council of Montgomery County has been designated to manage the Gallery and Music Roomin partnership with the Silver Spring Regional Center. An endowment fund has been established by AHCMC for the management of the gallery and music room in perpetuity. Major donors to the gallery include the Kramer Family, GEICO and Montgomery County with other gifts from Fran and Hillel Abrams, Joseph Adler, Ike and Catherine Leggett, Senator and Mrs. Laurence Levitan, Lawrence Resemble, Bobbi and Larry Schulman, and Sami and Annie Torah. To make a donation to the Betty Mae Kramer Gallery and Music Room, please contact Suzan Jenkins, CEO of AHCMC, at 301-565-3805 ext. 23

The Music & Arts Ministries of Jesus House DC, Sunday, June 10, 2011, on Veterans Plaza at 2 pm. Free!

2011-07-09T11:52:00.006-04:00

Please join us for another exciting Plaza Performance. On Sunday, July 10, 2011 at 2 pm, we welcome the Music & Arts Ministries of Jesus House DC to the Plaza Stage! The performance is free!

Jesus House DC is a dynamic vibrant non-denominational multicultural church where praise is exuberant, prayer is steadfast and preaching is practical. The church has been based in the DC Metropolitan area for over a decade. The mission of the church is to restore hope and maximize potential. The church has an active community outreach ministry called “True Love Cares (TLC)” whose mandate is to share the love of Jesus Christ by caring for others.

For more info, please visit www.jesushousedc.org

This performance is a production of the Silver Spring Town Center, Inc. Visit their blog at www.silverspringtowncenter.blogspot.com, follow them on Twitter at www.twitter.com/sstowncenter or on Facebook.

Plaza Performances on YouTube! Click Here!

2011-07-06T15:19:00.008-04:00

The Silver Spring Town Center, Inc. is on YouTube!

SSTCi has been privileged to present exciting arts & entertainment programming for the greater Montgomery County community. You can see some of our Plaza Performances on our Youtube Channel by clicking here

Our SSTCi performers have included Groove Jet, Cloud 9, the 2nd Story Band, Snakehead Run, Warner Williams & Joyce Ettingoff, the Greater U Street Jazz Collective, Luisa & her Imaginary Orchestra, the Capital Accord Chorus, Mary Amato & Bill Wiliams, Hays Dowdy & Friends, Harmonic Blu Express, Garry Elders & Garrick Alden, Nathan Foley & Midnight Express, The Wharf Rats, the Second String Bluegrass Band, the Jazz Stimulus Project, the Traveling Bluejayes, and Cooking with Gas.

Visit our YouTube page at http://www.youtube.com/thetowncentre

Check out blog at silverspringtowncenter.blogspot.com, our website at www.silverspringtowncenter.com, follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/sstowncenter, or on Facebook!

Silver Spring Town Center, Inc. Supports Silver Spring's Re-designation as an Arts & Entertainment District

2011-07-05T16:52:00.003-04:00

The Silver Spring Town Center, Inc. supports Silver Spring's re-designation as an Arts & Entertainment District. Interested parties were invited to provide comments on the re-designation of the Silver Spring Arts and Entertainment District at a public hearing scheduled for Tuesday, July 5 at 7 p.m. at the Silver Spring Civic Building, One Veterans Plaza in Silver Spring.

Silver Spring was designated an Arts and Entertainment District in 2002 for a 10-year period and the designation will expire in 2012. As the designation proved to be highly successful, the County intends to apply for re-designation. In 2001, the State of Maryland enacted legislation that authorizes the Secretary of the Department of Business and Economic Development (DBED) to designate arts and entertainment districts in which tax and other financial benefits will be available for arts and entertainment enterprises and qualifying resident artists. Each year, DBED may create six districts, with no jurisdiction having more than one district designated in a single year. In Montgomery County, the central business districts of Bethesda, Silver Spring and Wheaton have each been designated an Arts and Entertainment District.

Comments will be heard by representatives from Montgomery County who will submit a recommendation to the County Executive and County Council. The Executive and Council will then submit a request to the State to apply for a re-designation.

Testimony of
Alan S. Bowser, President
Silver Spring Town Center, Inc.
Support Re-designation of the Silver Spring Arts & Entertainment District
July 5, 2011

My name is Alan Bowser, a Silver Spring resident and local business owner, and currently, President of the Silver Spring Town Center, Inc. I am also a member of the County Executive’s Silver Spring Arts & Entertainment District Advisory Committee.

The Silver Spring Town Center Inc. (SSTCi), a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization, is the result of a long process of community involvement and engagement to support the development of downtown Silver Spring. It was created to infuse community spirit and involvement in the new Silver Spring Civic Building and Veterans Plaza.

We are governed by an all-volunteer Board of Directors, representing all facets of the civic and business community in Silver Spring. Our current officers were elected in February 2010. The officers are myself; Dr. Sheryl Brissett-Chapman, Vice President; Mary Ann Zimmerman, Secretary; and David Fogel, Treasurer. Our website is www.silverspringtowncenter.com, our blog is www.silverspringtowncenter.blogspot.com; you can follow us on Twitter, YouTube, Flickr, and on Facebook!

The Silver Spring Town Center, Inc. very strongly supports the re-designation of the Silver Spring Arts & Entertainment District for the following very important reasons.

First, our work in Silver Spring is not yet done. The economic redevelopment and community revitalization process that is evident in Silver Spring has made great strides in recent years, but clearly much more work needs to be done.

We need to expand the area of economic progress and advance beyond the CBD center to other parts of Silver Spring, and re-designation of this area as an Arts & Entertainment District will help to achieve this important goal.

While we currently have many valuable cultural amenities such as the American Film Institute, Round House Theatre, Pyramid Atlantic, the new Montgomery College Performing Arts Center, The Bonifant Theatre Space, the Urban Nation Academy for the Performing Arts, and the soon to open Fillmore facility on Colesville Road, we believe that we need more art, more entertainment, more artists, more entertainers, and more creative venues to support our lively arts environment.

Second, re-designation will help us support our local artists and those individuals and business which help them survive and thrive.

Hundreds, perhaps thousands, of creative personalities are proud to call Silver Spring their home. We are blessed with an abundance of creative energy in the form of many singers, songwriters, musicians, actors, actresses, playwrights, graphic artists, printmakers, painters, sculptors, photographers, among others. Re-designation helps support our artistic community by providing valuable tax breaks and incentives for artists and supporting businesses to locate and remain in Silver Spring. Re-designation helps us by supporting a “critical mass” of creative energy that will nurture existing artists and new artists in exciting new ways.

Third, re-designation will help us to build and strengthen our community, by educating our neighbors and visitors, and fostering ties between people and communities.

As you know, Silver Spring is one of the most diverse communities in the metropolitan Washington area, indeed in the United States. People speaking scores of different languages attend our schools, shop in our businesses, worship in our churches, mosques and synagogues, ride our buses and enjoy our rich arts & entertainment offerings. In this cultural mosaic, we have seen hundreds of people come together to celebrate the arts from every corner of the globe.

Recently, the Silver Spring Town Center, Inc., in cooperation with Montgomery County, has begun the production of a number of community-centered arts & entertainment productions on Silver Spring’s Veterans Plaza. Since we began our 2011 performance season in April, we have hosted nearly twenty free performances for the benefit of the entire Montgomery County community, and have scheduled nearly forty more. We have brought to the Plaza Stage jazz, blues, bluegrass, country & western music, rock, folk and choral music, and look forward to spoken work, dramatic productions, and dance performances. And as we have brought this tapestry of performance to the Plaza, we have seen very enthusiastic audiences—large and small—or every color and hue—unite to celebrate these performances that reflect our community’s diversity. We have seen the music bring our neighbors together, and make our community safer.

Fourth, re-designation will help us to strengthen the local economy in Silver Spring and in greater Montgomery County.

We know that fostering and promoting “arts & entertainment” can bring millions of dollars into our community and into our community. One has only to look at the success of the Silver Spring Jazz Festival, AFI’s & Discovery’s SilverDocs, and our own Silver Spring Blues Festival to see that quality art & entertainment attracts tens of thousands of customers to local businesses. Our Silver Spring Blues Festival, with the support of local merchants, has promoted local restaurants and clubs, and has economically benefitted a host of businesses, in Silver Spring and throughout Montgomery County. Re-designation will help us to build on this progress and provide an even much greater stimulus to the County’s economy, and particularly, local small businesses.

Fifth, re-desigation will help us enhance our community’s statute as an important arts & entertainment destination.

Many of us in the community have worked tirelessly to enhance Silver Spring’s reputation as a go-to place for fun, recreation, relaxation and education. We feel proud of our collective accomplishments in this area and look forward to even greater achievements. Already, Silver Spring is seen as an important regional arts & entertainment destination, and this perspective will only increase as we continue our efforts to embrace the local creative community and the thousands of our neighbors who support it.

In conclusion, the Silver Spring Town Center, Inc. is pleased to support the efforts to secure re-designation of our community as an Arts & Entertainment District. Our organizational motto is “Celebrating Diversity, Creating Community.” An Arts & Entertainment District supports this objective. We still have important work to do, and this mechanism can help us achieve our goals.

Thank you for the opportunity to present this testimony this evening.

"Plaza Performances" at the Silver Spring Civic Building

2011-07-02T16:14:00.006-04:00

The Silver Spring Town Center, Inc. is pleased to present its updated schedule of "Plaza Performances" at the Silver Spring Civic Building.

Tuesday Evenings 7-9 pm

June 7 Luisa & Her Imaginary Orchestra
June 14 Hays Dowdy & his band
June 21 Garry Elders
June 28 The Second String

July 5 Cooking with Gas
July 12 Time2Go
July 19 Banjer Dan
July 26 The Eclectics

August 2 Don Muller, Guitar/Vocals
August 9 Gina DeSimone & Pat Quinn
August 16 Strings4Joy
August 23 SwagFunk
August 30 TBA

September 6 BlackJacks
September 13 TBA
September 20 Archie Edwards Blues Ensemble
September 20 TBA

Thursday Evenings 7-9 pm

April 7 Groove Jet
April 21 Cloud 9
April 28 Thursday Night Music Club
May 5 2nd Story Band

May 19 Warner Williams & Joyce Ettingoff
May 26 Snake Head Run
June 2 Greater U Street Jazz Collective

June 9 Capital Accord Chorus AND Mary Amato
June 23 Midnight Sun with Nathan Foley
June 30 Jazz Stimulus Project

July (All Thursdays) Silver Spring Swings (Montgomery County Govt)

August 4 Warner Williams, Joyce Ettingoff and Jonny Grave
August 11 Truth
August 18 Rocksteady Kid DJs
August 25 Sonic Circuits Presents

September 1 Wendy and the Lost Boys
September 8 Wiley Sonic
September 15 Mary Amato & Friends
September 22 The Social Ramble
September 29 Dimensions of Blue

October 6 Contradiction Dance
October 13 TBA
October 20 Contradiction Dance
October 27 TBA

Sunday Afternoons 1-6 pm

June 12 So. Mont. County Orchestra (SSRC)
June 19 Harmonica Blue Xpress
June 26 Wharf Rats

July 3 The Traveling BlueJayes 2pm
July 10 Jesus House 2pm
July 17 The Unruly Blues Band
July 24 Boomerang
July 31 The Five One & SwagFunk

August 7 Blues Ramblers (5-7)
August 21 The Fabulous Newports
August 28 Jeff Snyder & Friends

September 4 Jesus House (2pm) Bobby Lewis Band
September 11 September 11th Observance (no events planned)
September 18 Sonic Circuits
September 25 TBA

For more information, email silverspringjams@gmail.com

Thanks to SSTCi's Alan Bowser and Don Berkemeyer for their great work in organizing this program. Special thanks to Joyce Ettingoff for her major contribution to this program.

The Traveling Bluejayes and Cooking with Gas perform on Veterans Plaza, Sunday, July 3rd and Tuesday, July 5th. Free!

2011-07-01T10:36:00.001-04:00

Please join us for two exciting Plaza Performances on Silver Spring's Veterans Plaza! On Sunday, July 3rd and Tuesday, July 5th!

On Sunday, July 3, from 2 pm to 4pm, we welcome The Traveling Bluejayes to the Plaza Stage.

The Traveling Bluejays is a great band that plays Folk, Rock, Rockabilly, Originals, Blues. The band members are Arlene Jaye, George Hardman, Karen Hardman, Rick Kanton, Michelle Murray, and Joyce Ettingoff. George Hardman, rhythm guitar and vox..they call him Elvis..veteran of many bands in the Washington DC area..loves to do rockabilly and Elvis and keep the audience entertained...Arlene Jaye, vocalist..veteran of many DC bands as a vocalist..also former member of CSA Jamboree...Karen Hardman, percussionist..has played with many bands and loves to sinng Cher Songs, Michelle Murray, songwriter and very active in SAW as well as fantastic perfomer on guitar and vox..she gives the Blue Jayes an original sound...Rick Kanton, guitar..one of those guitar guys who can play just about anything in any style..has played with many bands...Joyce Ettingoff, harmonica player..endorsed by Lee Oskar..was part of CSA Jamboree..will also play anything and take the harmonica where people think it shouldn't go. For more information, check them out on Facebook or at http://www.reverbnation.com/thetravelingbluejayes

And, on Tuesday, July 5, from 7pm to 9 pm, "Cooking with Gas" will perform on Veterans Plaza

Cooking With Gas serves fine acoustic music featuring generous portions of blues spiced with jazz, gospel, swing and folk. CWG has played at the Washington Folk Festival and the Silver Spring Blues Festival. The members of Cooking with Gas are Jim Bunch (washtub bass, washboard), Marcus Childs Moore (fiddle, vocals), David Oziel (guitar, vocals), David Rothman (harmonica, vocals), Bob Sherman (guitar, vocals) and guests. For more information, visit their website at http://www.facebook.com/cookingwithgasmusic

These performances are a production of the Silver Spring Town Center, Inc. Visit their blog at www.silverspringtowncenter.blogspot.com, follow them on Twitter at www.twitter.com/sstowncenter or on Facebook.

See The Jazz Stimulus Project perform on Silver Spring Veterans Plaza, Thursday, June 30, 2011, 7 to 9 pm. Free!

2011-06-28T12:27:00.005-04:00

Please join us for another exciting Plaza Evening performance on Silver Spring's Veterans Plaza. On Thursday, June 30, 2011, from 7 pm to 9 pm, we welcome the The Jazz Stimulus Project to the Plaza Stage. The performance is free!

The Jazz Stimulus Project ("JSP") is a confederation of lawyers, consultants, and other D.C. professionals who wear power suits by day but secretly aspire to become Jazz stars by night. Having met at the Maryland Summer Jazz fantasy camp several years ago, the JSP band formed to play the Latin and Straight-Ahead Jazz music of Antonio Carlos Jobim, Charlie Parker, Joao Gilberto, Dizzy Gillespie, Sonny Rollins, Miles Davis, and many others. JSP has performed at many local restaurants, jazz clubs, festivals, farmers markets, and private functions.

Performing at Veterans Plaza will be:
Chip Smoley -- Piano
Guy Stevens -- Bass
Alan Kirschenbaum -- Drums
Franklin Wade -- Trumpet/Flugelhorn
Dayton Eckerson -- Soprano/Tenor Saxophone

For sample recordings and more information: http://www.reverbnation.com/jerrybresee
e-mail: hde607@gmail.com

This performance is a production of the Silver Spring Town Center, Inc. Visit their blog at www.silverspringtowncenter.blogspot.com, follow them on Twitter at www.twitter.com/sstowncenter or on Facebook.

The Second-String Bluegrass Band performs on Silver Spring's Veterans Plaza, Tuesday, June 28, 2011, 7 to 9 pm.

2011-06-27T11:37:00.002-04:00

Please join us for another exciting Plaza Evening performance on Silver Spring's Veterans Plaza. On Tuesday, June 28, 2011, we welcome the Second String Bluegrass Band to the Plaza Stage. The performance is free!

Emmett Overstreet, Earl Williams, and the late Ron Krupka formed the Second String Bluegrass Band over 30 years ago. The band, which was active from 1981 to 2004, has had from three to five members and instrumentation including rhythm guitar, five-string banjo, Dobro guitar, lead guitar, fiddle, mandolin, and string bass. Paul Young joined the group in the late 1990s. The band's repertoire is heavily influenced by the music of bluegrass pioneers such as Lester Flatt & Earl Scruggs and Bill Monroe. Folk songs, country songs, and instrumentals round out the repertoire.

The band has played at various local venues, including O'Carroll's Restaurant, Arlington, Va.; Tiffany Tavern, Alexandria, Va.; Colonel Brook's Tavern, Washington (Brookland) D.C.; the Arlington County Folk Festival; the Washington Folk Festival (@ Glen Echo, Md.); Glover Park Day (in Upper Georgetown, D.C.); Burleith Day (in Upper Georgetown, D.C.); Potomac Overlook Park, Arlington, Va.; and at private parties and picnics.

Current personnel:
Emmett Overstreet of Falls Church, Va.: lead vocals and rhythm guitar.
Earl Williams of Washington, D.C.: baritone, lead vocals, five-string banjo, lead guitar.
Paul Young of Washington, D.C.: tenor, lead vocals, mandolin.

This performance is a production of the Silver Spring Town Center, Inc. Visit their blog at www.silverspringtowncenter.blogspot.com, follow them on Twitter at www.twitter.com/sstowncenter or on Facebook.

The Wharf Rats perform on Silver Spring's Veterans Plaza, Sunday, June 26, 2011 from 3 pm to 6 pm. Free.

2011-06-26T11:17:00.003-04:00

Please join us today, Sunday, June 26, 2011, from 3 pm to 6 pm, as we welcome "The Wharf Rats" to the Veterans Plaza stage. The performance is free!

The Wharf Rats' musical focus has a solid foundation influenced by the Grateful Dead & improvisational jamming searching within each band member's personal sound. The result is an innovative expression played for their fans and the band on each gig. Rock, blues, and psychedelic jamming is their passion.

Instrumentation:
Robert Gersten - Drums / Vocals
Lenny Dinerman - Bass / Harp / vocals
Eric "dawg" Metzman - Vocals, Lead Guitar
Eric "Huck" Huckleberry - Vocals, keyboards
"Cosmic" Carl Baer Schwartzman - Vocals, Percussion

The original Wharf Rats started three years ago in Eric's studio basement with several friends who jammed together for many years. They have expanded the Grateful Dead sound, interpreted many new directions by jamming on Dylan, Doors, blues, and originals. The band's back line of solid drumming/percussion and bass is balanced with the interplay melodies between the guitarist and keyboard player. New dimensions of sound happen at every rehearsal and gig.

Read more about the Wharf Rats at http://www.sonicbids.com/TheWharfRats2

This is a production of the Silver Spring Town Center, Inc. You can follow them on their blog at www.silverspringtowncenter.blogspot.com or on Twitter at www.twitter.com/sstowncenter or on Facebook!

Nathan Foley & Midnight Sun perform on Silver Spring's Veterans Plaza, Thursday, June 23, 2011, 7 to 9 pm. Free!

2011-06-23T09:01:00.002-04:00

Please join us for another exciting Plaza Evening performance, Thursday, June 23, 2011, 7 to 9 pm, on Silver Spring's Veterans Plaza. Tonight, we welcome the band "Midnight Sun" to the Plaza Stage. The performance is free!

"Midnight Son" features guitarist, Nathan Foley, from Montgomery Blair High School, who performs with a 4 piece jazz funk band. Nathan, age 16, is the only person in Apollo Theater history to win 8 consecutive 1st place victories (2010 Apollo Champion in the adult division and 2008 Champion in the children's division).

Read more about Nathan Foley in a November 2010 Washington Post Article. http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/11/18/AR2010111805019_pf.html

"Contestants primp at mirrors in the Green Room, warble harmonies in the corridor. A 32-year-old female poet from Harlem, dressed like Michael Jackson, twitches and twirls. A dance troupe from Japan does impossible contortions. A 25-year-old music graduate student from London lugs in her cello.

Trying to hear himself in the rising din, a thin young man in black slacks and a black T-shirt restlessly picks staccato scales on his unplugged electric guitar. His iridescent gray sport coat hangs nearby. His black fedora is on the floor beside his guitar case.

He is Nathan Foley, 16, of Rockville, a junior at Montgomery Blair High School.

Foley has been making history at the Apollo. He has finished first on Amateur Night seven straight times over two years. This has never been done in the theater's 76-year history, according to producers and resident historian Billy Mitchell.

On this October Wednesday, Foley's eighth appearance, he is competing for "Super Top Dog," the best of the best of 2010. First prize is $10,000. There is no second prize.

"If I have the resources after tonight, I'm definitely getting a new guitar," Foley says to his guitar teacher, Eric Ulreich of the Levine School of Music.

Foley pays for all his equipment out of savings from infrequent gigs. But for Foley, it's not all about the money. The Apollo is not an end; it is a hallowed gateway to a seemingly limitless future..."

See "The Apollo Kid" Nathan Foley and Midnight Sun tonight on Silver Spring's Veterans Plaza, from 7 to 9 pm!!!!

This program is a production of the Silver Spring Town Center, Inc. This program is a production of the Silver Spring Town Center, Inc. Read their blog at www.silverspringtowncenter.blogspot.com or follow them on twitter at www.twitter.com/sstowncenter or on Facebook!

Garry Elders performs on Silver Spring's Veterans Plaza, Tuesday, June 21, 2011 at 7 pm. Free!

2011-06-21T11:10:00.001-04:00

Please join us tonight, Tuesday, June 21, 2011, for another exciting Plaza Evening performance on Silver Spring's Veterans Plaza. Tonight, we are pleased to welcome Garry Elders to the Plaza Stage! The performance is free.

Garry Elders has been performing and recording professionally most of his life. A cousin of Johnny Cash, his passion is country, bluegrass and blues music, influenced by country greats such as Bill Phillips, Hank Williams, Merle Haggard, Charlie Pride, Dolly Parton, and Porter Wagoner.

This program is a production of the Silver Spring Town Center, Inc. Read our blog at www.silverspringtowncenter.blogspot.com or follow us on twitter at www.twitter.com/sstowncenter or on Facebook!