• Neighborhood House’s overall goal for March is raising 120,000 pounds of food/dollars –that’s enough food to fill four semi-trucks!
• Their food shelf serves 28-30 families per day, distributing roughly 2,500 pounds of food
• The Neighborhood House food shelf served 36,426 individuals last year. One-half of those they serve are children.

All donations are tax-deductible, and are partially matched by MN FoodShare. Riley and Shawn will be available to answer any questions you may have. Thank you for your support in the fight against hunger!

If you’re asking yourself, “How do I not miss out again?”, then read on my friend.  I’ll tell you how to find out about events at RJ and who the next live band is!

Rhythm Junction schedule of events is available in several places, but the most current and up to date is on Facebook.  There’s both a group and a page.  The group is more for the attendees to congregate and share items of interest amongst themselves while the page is for official announcements.  All the FB events originate from the page, such as this one for Jason’s Mardi Gras set next week.

Another thing that we have is our email list.  If you join, you’ll get an email about once a month telling you what’s coming up.  For now, you just have to email me your address to get on it while we get a real list-serve functioning.

And finally, there’s always the calendar on this site!

Well, you’re wondering whose up next for live music, eh?  Well, there’s a guy playing at PLEX NOIR in Winnipeg, Manitoba who’s going to stop by afterward.  PLeX is the Prairie Lindy eXchange.  It’s been around a long time and while mostly Canadian, we’ve hosted it here in Minneapolis twice, 2006 and 2008 for ForePLeX and OctoPlexy respectively.  A fun, relaxed event — it’s perfect for the new exchange going and veteran alike.  If you’re interested in carpool or caravan, do give us a call.

So who’s the group? Solomon Douglas will be performing for us in a three-piece jazz combo!  It’s going to make for a great night and we hope to see you there on March 12th, 2012!  (But, really, come to Winnipeg with us, it will be awesome.)

Overall Performance

Overall, it seems like we’ve made the right choices here at RJ. See the note at the end of this post for questions on methodology.

Category: Likes/Neutral/Dislike

Music: 21/1/0
Glenn Crytzer: 16/6/0
Dance Floor: 21/0/1
Environment: 19/0/3
Water & Snacks: 19/3/0

59% of The 22 dances come weekly, 27% twice a month, 5% once a month, and 9% only came a few times.

Live Music

$10 is the most common answer (73%), the average price coming in at $9.65.   59% of folks would pay that monthly, 45% quarterly, and just 9% suggested every 4 months.   Our decision for 2012 is to go quarterly at 10$/night.  If you follow our monthly fliers (available at Four Seasons), you’ll know in advance when we’ll have live music at $10/night.

Themed Nights

The themed nights had a mixed response, still positive, but not as strong.  72% remembered the themed nights, but 28% didn’t. Only 64% felt the nights stayed within the theme.  While 68% of respondents like the concept, 10% do not.  Respondents agree, but not strongly, with the implementation while the general inclination is that we should continue them in the future (63%).

Suggested themes include Blues, Soul, Charleston, Fast Music, Patty and the Buttons, Gypsy Jazz (Repeat), Jump Blues/Fifties’ Rock.

In response to the suggested themes, Charleston, Patty, Fast Music and Gypsy Jazz nights are in our future. Blues and Soul are popular in our community and may become part of an occasional “Back Room” series.  I feel that the Jump Blues and 50′s Rock are well served by other offerings in our community.  If they were to happen at RJ, it would be a “Back Room” affair, but RJ’s front room is focused on 20′s, 30′s, and 40′s vintage jazz.

Snacks and Food

The snacks and food were interesting.  In this section I will discuss the results in terms of weighted likes to hates with a significance scored based on the number of indifferent responses.  The stronger the weighting, the more significant the finding.

Cookies: People liked cookies 7.5:1, with a weight of 1.7.  Slightly significant.
Sugary Candies: Just about 1:1, but with a weight 1.083, the finding is insignificant.
Trail Mix: 9:1 in favor, weighting of 3.33.  This is strongly significant. (Though worth noting, we didn’t go through the trail mix all that fast!)
Bars: 13:1 in favor, weighting of 1.27.  Slightly significant, mostly indifferent.
Salty Snacks: 23:1 in favor, 3.43.  Strongly significant finding.

In terms of dietary needs, 2 are Gluten Free, 1 Vegan, 3 “Other” — 6 of 22 respondents.  That seems significant but the high percentage could be a result of the number of respondents.

Our Direction: It seems like the direction we’ve taken is good, hitting all the needs/wants.  We’ll adjust to having Trail Mix on hand and continue our variety.

Want to bring something? The question did come up on whether or not folks can bring stuff.  It is okay to bring snacks to share.  Please take good care when producing the food, use gloves and hairnets to keep the food free of personal contaminants.  Don’t lick the beaters until you’re done with them!

Respondent Demographics

Age:
27% @ 18-21
23% @ 22-25
27% @ 26-30
9% @ 31-35
9% @ 36-40
5% @ 40+

There was a question on why we chose these age ranges, and it was purely based on observed age ranges at RJ dances.  Now we have confirmation and something to track year to year.  RJ is set up to encourage continued dancing as dancers move from college into careers and later families.  I think that the numbers here reflect that demographic is being met, but only to a degree.  It’s hard to say why there are not more dancers over 30, but there has not been an ‘evening’ opportunity outside of the bar scene in town until now.  It is our hope that we will see growth in these under-represented age groups.

Experience:
36% 1-2 years
27% 3-4 years
14% 5-6 years
23% 7+ years

These are very encouraging results for RJ.  Through RJ’s music selection, we aim to call to Lindy Hoppers.  There is a natural attrition as dancers get older and leave the scene, RJ is attempting to provide a place for them to continue dancing.  Thus, these results are very, very positive!

In Summary

All the options in the survey were informed by qualitative assessment of those attending the dances.  The parting comments were all appreciated and we’re looking into all the suggestions there, including ‘new dj’ opportunities.

Thank you for taking the time to participate in the survey. It is good to know that we are on the right path.  We are happy to provide you this dancing opportunity and look forward to improving upon it.

Methodology Note

A note on Methodology.  Most of the questions are on a scale of 1 to 5 or hate to like with a continual middle ground for neutral or not applicable.  The stats and rations given reflect either degree of like and hate, that is, 1 & 2 and 4 & 5.

Features in this update: What to do with a packed house?  What’s coming in December? Winter is coming, How do we keep the place clean when the snows fall a hundred feet deep? What about 2012?

What to do with a packed house?

I have to admit, however, that it did get a bit cozy with nearly 100 people in the house.  There are few things that we can do about that, however, if this becomes the way of things.   The main floor is about 1100 sq feet, but the back room holds another 600 sq feet (if awkwardly shaped, surrounded by chairs, with a pillar in the middle).  If this trend continues, then we’ll open that back room for a variety of programming options — be it playing the same music as the front or going in a completely different direction.  There are many great things to be done there, don’t you worry, we’ve got ideas!

What’s coming in December?

There are just three nights of Rhythm Junction in December, the 5th, 12th, and 19th.  The 26th we are taking off for holiday.

On December 5th, RJ conducts an experiment: Guitarist Robert Bell is loved by all Minnesota dancers, this is known.  His wife and occasional RJ DJ Katie put the idea into both our heads that he should take his expansive musical knowledge and create a night of music for Lindy Hoppers as only he can do it.  Robert accepted the offer and brings his tunes to us this Monday, December 5th, 2011.  We are very excited to present the inaugural Lindy Hop DJ debut of Mr. Robert Bell.

Following that, Naomi Uyama, aspiring singer that she is (I hope you all catch her at the Uptown Strutter’s Ball on December 10th!), will return to the RJ DJ table on December 12th.  Naomi continues to bring her DC and NYC DJing experiences along with her vast knowledge of what it is that Lindy Hoppers look for.

In closing, for 2011, Jason Zabinski will DJ on December 19th, a scant 3 months after opening this adventure last September.  Jason is constantly expanding his musical repertoire to keep things interesting, undoubtedly he will have new selections to inspire you this week as well.  It is also worth noting that Jason has built enough energy to spawn a jam circle in 3 of 4 of his DJ opportunities.  Jams aren’t planned by RJ, they’re organic and we like it that way.  Don’t be shy, jump in and take a spin.

December 19th is also our Holiday Party.  We’re suggesting that you bring in cookies of some sort.  We like chocolate chip, russian tea cakes, spritzes, thumb prints, peanut butter, and such.  You can bring what you like too.  We’ll have milk and eggnog for you though!  More details to come later.

Winter is coming, How do we keep the place clean when the snows fall a hundred feet deep?

Winter is indeed coming.  That means snow and wet shoes/boots.   That means additional moisture in an already sweat filled room.  To combat this, snowy shoes and boots will require changing and left in the foyer to keep that additional moisture out of the venue, keeping the floors clean and better for dancing.  We’ll make some adjustments in that space to make it more amenable to changing shoes over the next few weeks, but please be cognizant of your feet and this policy!

What about 2012?

December concludes the initial trial for Rhythm Junction, and it has been a rousing success.  The response has been overwhelming, positive, encouraging, and exciting.  Rhythm Junction will return in 2012 with your beloved DJs, new DJs, live music, themes, and much, much, more.  Some have asked for a “new-DJ” opportunity at RJ and we are working to develop a strategy for this — perhaps you are the next great DJ!

Mel was well received in her opening debut and will continue to play her mix of music.

Ed Morales will debut on Halloween and give us our second themed set: New Orleans Jazz with various chants de mort worked in.

We’ll have our goodies as usual both nights and on Halloween we’ll spruce things up a bit.  Costumes welcome, of course, as are your carved pumpkins.  Enter your pumpkin into the carving contest for a chance to win 4 nights of free Rhythm Junction!

Rhythm Junction is in need of volunteers! It takes several folks to run Rhythm Junction each night, most of whom are volunteers. We’re looking for 3 to 5 new volunteers to help us out. Volunteering is simple, involving little more than working the reception desk for about 45 minutes a night and then helping out with a few other minor duties.  In exchange for volunteering you’ll get into that night’s dance for free!

Interested? Shoot us an email at info@rhythm-junction.com.  Think about it, you’re already coming, right?  Why not save the 4/5$ and lend a hand?

Speaking of treats, October is looking great:

10/3 Melissa Varriano – Fantastic!

10/10 Jason Zabinski

10/17 Damon Stone

10/24 More Mel!

10/31 Ed Morales — Halloween; New Orlean’s Jazz and Songs de Muerte.

Ed Morales makes his debut on this Hallowed Eve. He brings with him New Orlean’s Jazz and songs de Muerte. A frightfully exciting night is in store!

Costumes and carved pumpkins welcome. If there are more than 5 carved pumpkins, we’ll have a pumpkin carving contest — winner gets 4 free admissions to Rhythm Junction!

11/7 Robert Bell — The DJ. Wait, what?

• Sunday, September 25th:  A Dance, by Dominic.  The Twin Cities Hot Club, led by Robert Bell, play from 7pm until 11 at Four Season’s.  Dominic writes, “We’ve been making it happen for the last two months, let’s do it again. What better way to spend a Sunday evening, than with live music, great friends, and your drink of choice. That’s right, it’s BYOB.  This month we are doing something special. The price is $10 at the door, and $1 of that will go to the fundraiser to help support local dancers going to Herrang Dance camp next year. Invite your friends, bring one, bring all. See you all there.”
• Monday, September 26th: Rhythm Junction, by yours truly.  This week Naomi Uyama and Peter Strom, fresh back from Spain and Canada, will DJ from 8pm until 11pm at Four Season’s for your dancing pleasure.  $5 admission, save a buck if you’re in by 8:30pm!
• Wednesday, September 28th: Rhythm Junction and Collectively Blue present Glenn Crytzer and his Syncopators at Four Season’s.  Glenn’s band comes out of Seattle and is in the midst of a nationwide tour.  They are one of the premiere dance bands in the country, versatile in both Blues and Lindy Hop.  For RJ, they will play all blues from 9pm to Midnight. Cost is 10$ even.
• Thursday, September 29th: TCSwing presents Glenn Crytzer and his Syncopators for round two!  Tonight, however, at Late Nite Swing at Social Dance Studio, they’ll bust out their Swing and Jazz music to rock your dancing world.  They’ll be on from 10p until 1am and you won’t want to miss them. Cost is $6 regular admission, $5 for students.
• Friday, September 30th: As part of Svind Du Nord, TCSwing is hosting Steve Clarke & The Working Stiffs at Social Dance Studio starting at 8:30pm. “Come on out for a jumpin’, jivin’ and swingin’ great time with the one of the most popular swing bands in town! These guys keep you jazzin’ on the dance floor with all the great songs from yesteryear as well as original work!”
• Saturday, September 31st: The final night of live music at Svind Du Nord, TCSwing is hosting Talk of the Town Orchestra also at Social Dance Studio starting at 8:30pm.

After this week is done, why not kick it back with another night of Rhythm Junction?

• Monday, October 3rd: Melissa Varriano spins her first set at Rhythm Junction tonight, 8pm to 11pm at Four Season’s.  Mel used to DJ a lot in San Diego before moving back home.  She’s got a great selection of music and knows how to play it for dancers.  Yet another night not to be missed!

When, it’s going to be a very fun week here in Minnesota, I hope to see you out!  Ask me to dance, I’ll be out as often as I can!

~ Shawn

• Monday the 19th will feature two DJs in two rooms, Jenny Collins in front with swing and Gypsy Jazz while Damon Stone will DJ the Blues in the back room starting at 9pm.
• The BOGO coupon is good for one free admission with one paid admission, both must occur on the same night. So, it’s more like a “bring a friend” night.    Help spread the word of Rhythm Junction!
• I am always open to the new ideas for themes and activities that we can do at Rhythm Junction.  For example, gypsy jazz or Count Basie nights.  Please send me any thoughts you have and you’ll get to help with the implementation!

• I’m still looking for some volunteers.  I’ll need 3-4 per night.  For volunteering you can dance the rest of the night for free. Let me know if you are interested.
• Parking is more limited than anticipated for a Monday Night.  The meters are free after 8, if you can get one.  The lot off Maple is $5 for the night, and there is parking on the residential blocks near the Basilica.  I’m going to look into some other options, like MCTC and such.  I will let you know when I have news, and, of course, it will be on the website.
• LIVE BAND: Glenn Crytzer and his Syncopators are playing Blues on 9/28 at Rhythm Junction (9pm to Midnight, Four Seasons) and Jazz at Late Nite Swing on 9/29 (10p, Social Dance Studio).
• Rhythm Junction’s website is www.rhythm-junction.com and we are on facebook.  Event postings on Facebook will come from the Facebook Page, not the group page, starting with the Oct 10 event.

I hope to see you tonight at 8pm sharp!  Remember, those who arrive before 8:30 will save a buck!

Thank you all, and please don’t hesitate to shoot me any questions, comments, or concerns you may have.