Well, we braved the rain and had a wonderful day. There are so many people to thank. We start with Urban Meadow for opening their newly landscaped park to the County Fair (and provided us with electricity when the generator decided not to participate).
Geoff and Lynnette at Jalopy Theatre were essential to the success of this event. They built the stage, provided sound, and took promotion to a new high. Their crew including Dorina, Ernie, Jake, and Sherelle running sound, keeping drinks flowing and taking care of folks throughout the day. There is no measure of their dedication and positive energy.
Jeff and all the folks down in Red Hook at Sixpoint Craft Ales have sponsored the Brooklyn County Fair for two years now, and they went above and beyond providing us with a variety of their home–brews (Righteous Rye, Bengali, and Sweet Action) and even setting us up with taps.
Jake's Barbeque provided us with a wonderful pulled pork, wings, and a variety of Kansas City style fare. We thank them for joining us for the first time and look forward to having them at future shows.
Another new addition to the County Fair was Can't Afford Em Buttons. They make great t–shirts, clocks, and of course, buttons. If you didn't grab something form their booth, be sure and check them out on–line.
A special thank to Sean Kershaw for coming to the rescue with a PA and tent. Both came in real handy.
This show was created to support live, local, original country music. I have undying respect for my fellow promoter (and Frankenpine banjo player) Matthew Chase. He's an ideal person to put a show together with and his contributions were vital to the success of the Fair. Together we booked 11 amazing bands. Each bringing their own unique style and talent to an conscientious audience.
That said, we were introduced to Brooklyn County Fair newcomers Big Slyde, Red Rooster, Maynard and the Musties who proved they can play under ANY circumstance, and The Dixons. It is a treat to have these guys join our family. Returning BCF veterans MeBeforeYou, Alana Amram and the Rough Gems, Michaela Anne, The Newton Gang, The Doc Marshalls, The Buddy Hollers, and Frankenpine brought their best and have helped shape this Fair into what it has become. I can't say enough great things about these musicians!
At 5:18 the rain poured down and moments later we were moving the entire show into the Jalopy Theatre. I noticed everyone taking gear and walking it to the theatre in effort to keep the show rolling. It took no time to get The Doc Marshalls back up and running and keep the show in motion. To the audience that literally made the show your own, we were touched. Your unending support makes these kinds of events possible.
If you haven't seen it, Lucid Culture wrote a wonderful piece about the Brooklyn County Fair. They have a great site and I hope you will visit them often.
Lastly, on a personal note, I want to thank the folks who have been with me these last years. The website, the Fair, the graphic design, the t–shirts, posters, fliers, and CDs are all supported, created and distributed by people volunteering their time and energy. I couldn't do this alone. I thank you all for supporting the vision.
Best,
JD Duarte
