While bloggers plowed through April's A-Z Challenge, my hometown of Chico, California
accomplished something epic. The endeavor united kids, seniors, hippies; the rich and poor;
bar-stool warmers and bar-dodgers (like me)...every niche of the
community. Crowds swarmed Chico’s Country Western-style bar and grill, the Tackle Box.
The Internet lit up with North State news, and national attention
ensued.
Why? Because Chico squelched a Guinness World Record! Between April 1 and May 5, 2015 (thereupon dubbed “Chico de Mayo”), Chico was home to the world’s longest, non-stop, live multi-artist concert -- more than doubling the last world record.
The defcats
Much earlier and with no more than a backpack on-hand, Emily Rose had settled into Chico. She caught wind of Julian’s vision, and quickly found herself a Co-Chair of “Chico Breaks the Record.” This, while her book, Break Your Bad Love Habits, became a number one bestseller in that category.
Guinness rules are rigid too. Musicians aren’t allowed more than 25 seconds between songs, performers could not exceed five minutes for set-up between acts, 10+ people were required for the audience at all times, and much more.
But the core volunteer group made sure to keep it going, day and night, past 15 days, then for the entire month of April, then onto “Chico de Mayo” for a raucous grand finale.
smashing records
Chico may be small; but its generous spirit and raw talent, enormous.
I’ve been friendly with many who put their lives on-hold throughout this
endeavor. I know firsthand that their humility and kindness match their
off-the-charts musical skills.
“You’re a hero,” I told Julian Ruck, about halfway through April.
“We’re all winners!” he responded, imparting a gracious hug and beaming smile.
In the end, it feels insufficient to simply write “Thank you” to Julian Ruck, Emily Rose, Foxy Jeff, the Tackle Box (host venue), the Maker’s Mile (host band), and so many others whose hearts and spunk have brought recognition to artists everywhere. Sometimes, words aren’t enough.
We are all winners, indeed -- every creative who dares to dream.
This world-class duo serves as proof.
Have a great week, and know that anything is possible.
Why? Because Chico squelched a Guinness World Record! Between April 1 and May 5, 2015 (thereupon dubbed “Chico de Mayo”), Chico was home to the world’s longest, non-stop, live multi-artist concert -- more than doubling the last world record.
The defcats
It all started when local musician Julian Ruck decided to spotlight
Chico’s treasure trove of musical talent, and to shine light on artists everywhere. Fueled by the same vision, Julian’s buddy, Fox E.
Jeff (aka Foxy Jeff), produced a Rockumentary, “I Play in Chico.”
Much earlier and with no more than a backpack on-hand, Emily Rose had settled into Chico. She caught wind of Julian’s vision, and quickly found herself a Co-Chair of “Chico Breaks the Record.” This, while her book, Break Your Bad Love Habits, became a number one bestseller in that category.
Guinness rules are rigid too. Musicians aren’t allowed more than 25 seconds between songs, performers could not exceed five minutes for set-up between acts, 10+ people were required for the audience at all times, and much more.
But the core volunteer group made sure to keep it going, day and night, past 15 days, then for the entire month of April, then onto “Chico de Mayo” for a raucous grand finale.
Chico may be small; but its generous spirit and raw talent, enormous.
I’ve been friendly with many who put their lives on-hold throughout this
endeavor. I know firsthand that their humility and kindness match their
off-the-charts musical skills. “You’re a hero,” I told Julian Ruck, about halfway through April.
“We’re all winners!” he responded, imparting a gracious hug and beaming smile.
In the end, it feels insufficient to simply write “Thank you” to Julian Ruck, Emily Rose, Foxy Jeff, the Tackle Box (host venue), the Maker’s Mile (host band), and so many others whose hearts and spunk have brought recognition to artists everywhere. Sometimes, words aren’t enough.
We are all winners, indeed -- every creative who dares to dream.
This world-class duo serves as proof.
