It’s almost fall and we have been busy bees at Le Shag. Late summer always tends to feel exceptionally busy, with many people getting back to their regular schedules and the mad dash before the holidays begins. Here’s a cute recap of our end of summer fun and how we got to be a part of the community in so many ways.
At the end of August, Assembly hosted the first Kingston Calling: Battle of the Bands, bringing seven regional bands together after more than 30 originally entered the competition. Couch Surfer, Emerson Laura Palmer, Gary, Here Jenny, Jack Manley, Lolux, and Orangutwins took the stage in front of a pretty serious panel of judges that included Gail Ann Dorsey, Grasshopper of Mercury Rev, Michael Glabicki of Rusted Root, and producer and engineer Pete Caigan. Le Shag was also part of the prize package, offering the winning band professional styling, hair and makeup, and an editorial photo shoot. What a cool way to give local young musicians many opportunities to make some connections they might not have had the chance to otherwise.
Just before school started, Le Shag headed to Broadway Bubble to give local kids and teens free haircuts for the new school year. The Bubble is already much more than a laundromat. It was designed as a neighborhood hub and regularly hosts programs for kids, families, and adults. This is Le Shag’s second year participating in the back to school haircut program, and it has turned into one of our favorite events. We love being able to offer our services and see the differences on these kids’ faces, just giving them a confident start for the new school year.
Another night took us to The Maiden, a boutique inn tucked into Uptown Kingston on Maiden Lane, owned by Le Shag’s Jen Donovan. Mediterranean Night was a complete vibe all on its own. The band drew people in from the street. El Aris is a Hudson Valley based instrumental trio that blends the energy of rock music with traditional Arabic, Greek, and North African melodies. People were dancing, and they had a professional belly dancer too! Definitely seek them out if you get the chance.
Our last stop took us across the river to Gigi Trattoria in Rhinebeck for a small tasting event with Chef Rich Reeve. The evening was inspired by Catalonia, and we were invited along to help create some content while getting to experience the special menu. I tried the Canelones a la Catalana followed by the Mar y Montaña with crispy roast chicken and head on prawn. We also got to experience a few of Gigi’s regular menu items and every one was absolutely delicious. It was a fun, intimate night, and a pretty delicious way to see what our neighbors across the river have been up to.
We can’t wait to see what the fall months will bring!
Busy Bees: An End of Summer Recap
