BLAINE LAKE — Aspiring, motivated musicians and folks from all walks of life and all areas of the Northwest gathered at Ron Holmes' newly organized restaurant Jan. 17.
An authentic, home-cooked, all-you-can-eat buffet preceded a full evening of jamming.
Ron’s Café was already humming with activity at 5 p.m. and the music rolled out at 7 p.m. The jammers, inspired by one another, connected and amazingly pulled together. Enthusiastic dancers rocked and jigged to the rhythm of the old-time, vibrant tunes. Others enjoyed listening and reflecting, and still others enjoyed visiting.
Supportive folks wandered in awe amongst the rows and rows of old and new collectibles, antiques and memorabilia, with Holmes cutting whopping deals with everyone.
At one point this building was Blaine Lake's theatre, where it projected shows from1954-72.
Interesting experiences, stories and memories emerged out of there. For 25 cents, you could watch the same show twice and eat popcorn twists late into the night.
Holmes, with his ongoing effort and wit, has been hosting jams and buffets (specialties are chicken and ribs) for 18 consecutive years. Initiated in 1996, at Hafford’s Kozy Korner, Holmes sang bass and shared his passion, playing honky-tonk keyboard and accordion with fellow jammers.
This jam session, one of two held every month, truly was immersed with an atmosphere of hospitality, acceptance, encouragement and individuality. It was an electric performance.
