Nov. 16, 2001 – As the sun sets on another evening in the American Paradise, music performers and appreciators will be congregating in Red Hook for another "Friday Night Alternative" of mellow sounds and fun fellowship on the deck outside The Color of Joy.
It's an ever-evolving casual get-together that combines an opportunity to peruse the offerings of the American Yacht Harbor gallery/gift shop after hours with a couple hours of laid-back sounds, replete with complimentary wine, cheese and crackers.
For host Corinne Van Rensselaer, the weekly jazz, folk, blues and more jams are taking on a life of their own. First was the music, anchored by house keyboard/vocals artist Sally Smith, then came the name; promised for the end of November are official T-shirts — and would you believe there's a mission statement in the works?
Meantime, in the gallery there's also art work for good works: Jane Ryan Clemo's patriotically garbed moko jumbie soft sculpture that's being raffled, with proceeds to go to assist victims of the terrorist attacks and their families. Ticket may be purchased at any time; the winning one will be drawn at the Nov. 30 "Alternative" gathering.
"Friday Night Alternative" takes place on the AYH Marlin Deck overlooking the marina docks, from 6 to 8 p.m. Fridays. For folks heading to St. John, it's a convenient stop a few minutes' walk from the Red Hook ferry dock. And for those eager after two hours for more, it's a quick hop to the nearby Molly Molones pub, where the Lightnin' Phil and the Low Pressure System — whose members regularly drop in at "FNA" first — play from 8 p.m. until. To learn more, call 775-4020.
