It's been a rough start to the year, a reminder of how precious life is and how things can change at any moment. Last week, we had the honor of sharing in a celebration of life for Austin deLone, a beloved member of the Marin music community. He made the Sweetwater the Sweetwater. It was wonderful to see so many old friends and music associates we had nor seen since the "before times."
As for what else is going on, thank you to everyone who has reached out to us. True, we are in California, but we are 400 miles from the fires that are still raging and causing such devastation. I have stopped trying to speak truth to some childhood classmates that feel the need to share disinformation on social media.
Instead, I have been directing my energies towards sharing helpful information to and for friends directly impacted by the fires. Several have been evacuated and a few have lost their homes. I will keep updating the info on my substack as I gather new information. For example, there is one fundraiser with a 5 to 1 match happening as I write this. It started on January 13th and will go until January 17th, or until each reaches $50,000 for each organization, whichever comes first. That will amount to $50,000 from the general public and $250,000 from the match org. Funds will go to the LA Firefighters Foundation and the Pasadena Humane Society. You can choose.
After that finishes, more fundraisers will start up for several more orgs. This particular fundraiser is being sponsored by Explore.org and it's founder, Charlie Annenberg.
Sweet Relief has started a fund, as have Musicares and Guitar Center. West Coast Songwriters are gathering musical instruments. And many more people are chipping in to help however they are able.
In the music making department, we are having our first album release party on January 18th, 2025 from 4-8 pm at The Saloon. Hope to see you there.
Until we meet again, stay safe and love each other.
Ox,
Mari
