The THUGZ rolled into Gualala on Saturday night -a very warm, smokey evening. Wildfires in Lake and Humboldt counties have sent their smoke our way, even as far as the coast. But Gualala was pleasantly welcoming and full of travelers. We had lots of new faces mixed with old friends in the crowd, with dancing Danes and twirling tourists. It was a great evening, and I thought we all played well. Once again, Mike took off on some trumpet licks that went into the ether - so exciting. We hadn't played together since our Jerry Day extravaganza - so it was exciting to launch into our full band sound. The Gualala folks were clappers - they responded to almost every song with applause. I thought it was because they're so "hungry" for live music up there on the Mendonoma border. But I finally realized they liked us - us humble Thugz - and it was wonderful to realize we could spread some happy vibes. At evening's end, they became clappers and stompers, so we gave them a rousing "Franklin's Tower" - the song that ends with huge, tonic chords - symphonic. It was so much fun. I hope we can return with a flourish some day soon. Take care. Love, Sylvia