Recently, Mike was interviewed for a Sonoma County Gazette article about the Thugz upcoming "holidaze" show. He had a chance to share some of the band's musical ideas and pointed out that we try to convey the "best" spirit of the '60s and '70s "Renaissance" through our music. We don't live in the past, but we remember that feeling of opening up our eyes, hearts and minds. So, last night at the River Theater, I was amazed to see how much our friends and fans share our mindset. We were ready to play on a very cold night in a very cold theater. Jerry got his pyramid heaters going, but my piano keys felt like ice cubes all night. Once folks started coming in, things changed as they always do. We all knew the music would transport us beyond petty concerns, and it was an evening full of smiles, connections, great dancing, and support. When Mike chose to end the night with the Youngblood's "Get Together," I knew he was doing it for all of us - a gentle reminder that we can keep a generous, giving spirit alive. We played familiar songs, but they often morphed into great jams, and we were thrown into a special musical world where you really hear what's going on and respond to each other. I know this seems a bit far-fetched, but I thought the atmosphere we helped create last night was a tribute to the spirit of Nelson Mandela. I had been listening to radio coverage of his passing on the car radio as I drove to town. Mandela's wise words and Hugh Masakela's music were ringing in my ears when we arrived to play. As I played, I said a lot of quiet "thank yous" for the chance to express all my confused feelings of loss and hope. "Get Together" was the perfect song - "...come on people now, smile on your brother - everybody get together - try to love one another right now..." Take care. Love, Sylvia