"Acoustic Kitchen" with The Mixed Nuts March 15, 2013

To continue the swing thing, the Acoustic Kitchen series will feature The Mixed Nuts, a band that plays a collection of swing, as well as Latin, calypso, jazz, and popular tunes. On Friday, March 15, as a special offering, two members of Mendocino Swing Dance Society will teach a beginning swing dance class at 7PM followed by dance music at 7:30 PM. This fun event will be held at the Community Center of Mendocino, located at the corner of School and Pine Streets in Mendocino. Proceeds benefit the Community Center.

Sponsored by Mendocino Stories and Music Series for this event, The Mixed Nuts, an off-shoot of Kevin and the Coconuts, was originally the brainchild of Dan Albrecht who, in this group, plays piano and sings. He is joined by Steve Paul on trumpet, vocals, steel pan, banjo and accordion; Paul Schulman on congas; Daney Dawson on acoustic upright bass; and Chad Swimmer on drums and percussion.

All of these musicians are well known to the music and dance scene on the Mendocino Coast, having played with The Bob Ayers Big Band, Kevin and the Coconuts, Blue Bop, Safe Sax, Mambo This!, Bongo Latte, The Dixie Devils, Mad Cow Jazz, The Dancing Rhythm Dogs, Big Easy Jazz Band, and others.

Acoustic Kitchen is the newest manifestation of Community Center of Mendocino's vision of enriching community life by expanding opportunities for locals and visitors alike to gather, share, participate and benefit. Founded in 2012, CCM is a community-based nonprofit dedicated to building a sustainable, vibrant, and inclusive community center by strengthening community input and encouraging broad participation by all age groups. Current programs include a thriving state-licensed After School Enrichment Program and a wide variety of enrichment opportunities for people of all ages, from toddlers to seniors. Facilities are also available for rental. A complete listing of programs and rental opportunities is available at www.ccmendo.org.

All ages and levels of interest are encouraged. Doors open at 6:30 PM for snacks and beverages. $10 at the door, $5 for students includes the dance lesson. For more info on this event call Pattie at 937-1732 or visit www.mendocinostories.com/events.html