Category: Press Releases

  • Gathering for Good:Tri-Faith Initiative Presents “Fueling the Work” at 2025 RRSJ Conference

    Gathering for Good:Tri-Faith Initiative Presents “Fueling the Work” at 2025 RRSJ Conference

    OMAHA, NE – MAY 17, 2025 – Mark your calendars for Wednesday, June 11, 2025! The Tri-Faith Initiative is thrilled to host the fourth annual Race, Religion, and Social Justice (RRSJ) Conference, bringing together 150 passionate professionals, thought leaders, educators, and faith leaders to champion the inspiring theme, “Fueling the Work.” Attendees will have the opportunity to engage in three transformative general sessions, alongside a choice of 14 dynamic presentations, workshops, and educational discussions focusing on food’s vital role in igniting social change, shaping cultural identities, and advancing justice movements.

    This year’s theme, “Fueling the Work,” highlights the powerful potential of food as a catalyst for social transformation. Presenters and attendees will explore how food systems can uphold or dismantle social inequities. From community gardens to hunger relief efforts, presenters will share powerful narratives and innovative strategies that spur change at the intersection of faith, justice, and food.

    Dr. Paul Williams, an Associate Professor in the Religious Studies department at the University of Nebraska Omaha, underscores the conference’s significance: “The RRSJ Conference offers a rare platform for faith leaders, activists, educators, and influencers to unite and explore how everyday actions—like sharing a meal or cultivating a garden—can evolve into profound acts of resistance and healing. This is an essential dialogue for anyone committed to fostering justice in our communities.”

    This full-day conference is open to all and offers an affordable registration fee of just $99, which includes breakfast and lunch. Attendees will be inspired by renowned speakers and influential thinkers, creating opportunities for connection, learning, and collective action. Register now at trifaith.org to secure your spot!  

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    For further inquiries, please contact:

    Trisha Hoffman-Ahrens
    Tri-Faith Initiative
    Phone: 713.816.9614
    Email: rrsj@trifaith.org

    About Tri-Faith Initiative

    The Tri-Faith Initiative is dedicated to cultivating inclusive spaces that foster interfaith relationships and understanding. By promoting dialogue, education, and collaboration among diverse faith communities, Tri-Faith aims to create a world where differences are celebrated, commonalities are embraced, and everyone feels a true sense of belonging.

  • America’s Got Talent Winner Kodi Lee Headlines “Better Together” Talent Showcase Benefitting The Creekside School

    America’s Got Talent Winner Kodi Lee Headlines “Better Together” Talent Showcase Benefitting The Creekside School

    SAN JOSE, CA — May 15, 2025 — The Creekside School proudly presents “Better Together: A Talent Showcase Benefitting The Creekside School,” an inspiring evening of entertainment and community impact taking place on Thursday, June 5, 2025, at the Hammer Theatre in downtown San Jose.

    The evening will begin with an exclusive VIP Reception from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM on the Hammer Theatre rooftop, featuring live music, food, and drinks. Following the reception, the Main Program will run from 7:00 PM to 9:30 PM, delivering a powerful lineup of diverse performances in support of students with profound autism.

    Headlining the event is singer-songwriter Kodi Lee, the winner of America’s Got Talent Season 14, whose story has captivated millions. Also featured are magician and mentalist David Gerard, comedian Andrew Orolfo, and the contemporary dance ensemble sjDANCEco. Adding energy and excitement to the night will be Franco Finn—MC and TV personality for the NBA Champion Golden State Warriors—serving as Master of Ceremonies and Live Auctioneer.

    “As a singer and songwriter with autism, Kodi Lee is a powerful example of what’s possible when talent meets opportunity,” said Katie Shepard, Principal at The Creekside School. “This showcase is a celebration of inclusion, potential, and the limitless futures we can create together, not just for our students, but for the entire San Jose community.”

    The theme “Better Together” reflects The Creekside School’s commitment to uniting the community through diversity, advocacy, and shared purpose. The showcase intentionally highlights local performers and diverse talent, bringing attention to the power of inclusion through art.

    Proceeds from the event will directly support The Creekside School’s mission to improve the quality of life for students with profound autism and their families. Funds raised will go toward expanding enrollment and launching the school’s much-anticipated Adult Day Program. This initiative addresses a critical need: at age 22, individuals with neurodevelopmental disabilities age out of federally mandated education, support, and services. This abrupt end of services is commonly referred to as “falling off the cliff” into an adult-targeting human services system that is ill-equipped to serve the needs of individuals with profound autism.  The Adult Day Program will provide meaningful opportunities for continued education, vocational training, physical wellness, and social development—ensuring that Creekside students have lifelong support.

    VIP guests will also have the opportunity to meet Creekside staff, explore hands-on experiential tables showcasing how students with autism learn, and participate in a silent auction featuring exclusive packages such as courtside seats to a Golden State Warriors game with a signed Steph Curry jersey, premium tickets to a San Francisco Giants game with a signed Jung Hoo Lee item, and access to New York Fashion Week.

    “This is more than an event, it’s a movement,” said Elena Jolly, Executive Director of The Creekside School. “We’re on a mission to build a community where individuals with profound autism are fully included and supported. Every ticket you buy, every bid you place, directly fuels life-changing opportunities and greater independence for our students. Your involvement matters — because together, we can create a future where no one is left behind. We are truly better together.”

    Tickets start at $75.00 and are available now at the Hammer Theatre website.d

    About The Creekside School:
    The Creekside School is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) private, nonpublic school founded in 2006 and located in San Jose, California that serves students with profound autism. A “typical” student has significant communication challenges and sensory issues who is working towards a high school certificate of completion. We are devoted to discovering our students’ untapped potential, which is often overlooked in clinical settings due to communicative, behavior and/or sensory motor-based issues. We serve students in grades K-12 (ages 5-22).

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  • Smooth Jazz Titans Unite at All White Jazz Explosion 14

    Smooth Jazz Titans Unite at All White Jazz Explosion 14

    Legends of Smooth Jazz Unite for a Memorable Night

    GARFIELD HEIGHTS, OH – May 9, 2025 – The 14th edition of the All White Jazz Explosion is set to be a monumental gathering of smooth jazz titans. Scheduled from May 8, 2025, to May 24, 2025, at the Grand Ballroom, Garfield Heights, Ohio, the event will feature the iconic sounds of Marion Meadows and Alex Bugnon.

    Renowned for their contributions to the jazz world, saxophonist Marion Meadows and pianist Alex Bugnon are set to deliver a performance that celebrates their legacy and their impact on the genre. “Performing together in such an intimate setting is always special,” says Marion Meadows. “We’re excited to share our music with the fans in Garfield Heights.”

    Joining them will be Hubb’s Groove, bringing their dynamic rhythms, and a special guest DJ to keep the energy high throughout the night. This concert promises a fusion of tradition and innovation, ensuring a night of music that will resonate with jazz aficionados and new listeners alike.

    Secure your place at this unforgettable event by purchasing tickets, starting at $35.00, available at https://hubbsgroove.com and Eventbrite.

    For further details, please contact:
    Hubb’s Groove, Inc.
    Robert Hubbard
    216-923-1544
    hubbsgrooveincaa@gmail.com

    About Hubb’s Groove, Inc.

    An all-star band and friends that cultivates a unique musical experience by seamlessly blending Soul, Jazz, R&B, and a touch of Gospel. Hubb’s Groove delivers a smooth yet high-energy sound that resonates deeply with audiences.

    About Grand Ballroom of Sausalito

    The Grand Ballroom is one of Northeast Ohio’s premier event venues, offering a stunning blend of elegance and versatility just minutes from downtown Cleveland. Located in Garfield Heights, the venue features soaring ceilings adorned with magnificent chandeliers, a 40-foot grand bar, and flexible indoor-outdoor spaces that can accommodate over 300 guests. Whether hosting an upscale concert, private celebration, or gala, the Grand Ballroom provides a sophisticated backdrop and exceptional service that elevates every occasion. With convenient access from I-77 and I-480, it’s a hidden gem for unforgettable gatherings.

  • Family Fun and Festive Feasts Await at Celebrate West Hartford 2025

    Family Fun and Festive Feasts Await at Celebrate West Hartford 2025

    WEST HARTFORD, CT – April 23, 2025 – Mark your calendars! One of New England’s most celebrated outdoor festivals is back for another unforgettable year. The 2025 Celebrate! West Hartford event will take over the Town Hall Common on Saturday, June 7 (10am–6pm) and Sunday, June 8 (12–6pm), bringing together art lovers, foodies, families, and fitness fans for two jam-packed days of creativity, community, and celebration.

    At the heart of the festival is the juried Arts & Crafts Show, featuring over 150 master artisans from across Connecticut and the East Coast and over 100 businesses and non-profits. Whether you’re a serious collector or casual browser, this award-winning event—recognized by Sunshine Artist and Hartford Magazine—is a must-visit for handmade treasures and inspired works.

    Beyond the art, the festival transforms the Town Hall grounds into a vibrant hub of entertainment and activity:

    • Live music from top regional acts and student jazz ensembles
    • Food court offerings ranging from gourmet bites to classic carnival treats
    • Family carnival with rides and games for all ages
    • Free activities & giveaways from local businesses and non-profits
    • FUNd RUNS on Sunday morning featuring a USATF-certified 5K and the Kids’ K dash for ages 3–10

    “This event showcases what makes West Hartford so special—our creativity, generosity, and community spirit,” said Linda Geisler, event organizer. “Whether you’re lacing up for the 5K, buying your first handmade sculpture, or dancing along to the music, you’re part of something bigger—helping neighbors through every ticket, ride, or race bib.”

    Indeed, your participation goes far beyond the festival grounds. A portion of the event proceeds benefits The Town That Cares and the Leisure Services Scholarship Fund, providing essential support for summer camps, swimming lessons, and enrichment programs for local families in need.

    Whether you’re age 3, 83, or something in between there’s something for everyone at Celebrate! West Hartford. Come for the art, stay for the fun, and leave knowing you’ve helped your community shine.

    About Celebrate! West Hartford

    Now in its 38th year, Celebrate! West Hartford is a nationally recognized, free public festival held annually on the grounds of West Hartford Town Hall. It welcomes nearly 40,000 visitors each year and is produced in partnership with the Town of West Hartford, community organizations, and hundreds of volunteers.

    Media Contact
    Linda Geisler
    Event Director
    860–561-7512
    Linda.Geisler@WestHartfordCT.gov

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  • Craft Beer Meets Artisan Bread: A Unique Spent Grain Breadmaking Class at four of Boston’s favorite Breweries

    Craft Beer Meets Artisan Bread: A Unique Spent Grain Breadmaking Class at four of Boston’s favorite Breweries

    BOSTON, MA – April 22, 2025 – Caitlin Jewell, former owner of Somerville Brewing Company (Slumbrew), is returning to the Boston area with four exciting Spent Grain Breadmaking classes from May 6–9, 2025. After an incredibly successful year traveling coast-to-coast, teaching these unique breadmaking classes at hundreds of small breweries, Caitlin is bringing her hands-on, fun, and educational experience back to some of Boston’s best local breweries.

    Grainbakers Spent Grain Breadmaking Class Schedule – Boston Area:

    • Tues, May 6: Lord Hobo Woburn
    • Wed, May 7: Idle Hands Craft Ales
    • Thurs, May 8: True North Craft Ales, Ipswich
    • Fri, May 9: Castle Island Brewing, Southie

    Tickets are now available, but spots are filling fast!

    Participants will craft the Grainbakers Spent Grain Artisan Bread Dough, with opportunities to customize their loaves using a variety of delicious flavor options, such as UBE Purple Sweet Potato, Cinnamon Raisin, Rosemary & Sea Salt, and many more. Each class kicks off with a brewery tour and a warm welcome, followed by a lively, hands-on breadmaking session where everyone can get creative with their bread flavor combinations. Whether you’re a novice baker or a seasoned pro, the class is designed for all skill levels, making it a perfect evening for anyone who loves baking and craft beer.

    “I started teaching spent grain breadmaking at my own Somerville brewery, and now I’ve traveled across the country, bringing these classes to breweries all over,” says Caitlin. “Grainbakers is all about creating meaningful, fun experiences that bring new energy to taprooms, drawing in fresh customers and supporting local breweries.”

    Grainbakers highlights the challenges small U.S. breweries face while offering entertainment that increases revenue and fosters connections with the community. Past classes have sold out quickly, with guests enjoying the process of “making the dough rise” by buying beer, merchandise, and tipping staff.

    For more information or to purchase tickets, visit grainbakers.com/tickets

    For more information, please contact:

    Grainbakers Contact:

    Caitlin Jewell

    9252729415

    caitlin@grainbakers.com

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  • Bonsai Bar Expands to Colorado: Bringing Hands-On Bonsai Workshops to Local Breweries

    Bonsai Bar Expands to Colorado: Bringing Hands-On Bonsai Workshops to Local Breweries

    NORTH SCITUATE, RI – April 8, 2025 – Bonsai Bar, the innovative pop-up bonsai workshop, is thrilled to announce its expansion into Colorado, offering residents a unique blend of creativity, community, and craft beverages. Starting in April 2025, Bonsai Bar will host hands-on bonsai workshops at select Colorado breweries, providing participants with an opportunity to learn the art of bonsai in a relaxed and social environment.

    Founded in 2021 by Tim Arsenault, Bonsai Bar has rapidly grown into a nationwide movement, with workshops in 12 states and 16 markets. The company’s mission is to make bonsai accessible and enjoyable for everyone by combining the calming, creative process of bonsai cultivation with a fun, educational experience that fosters community connection.

    “We’re excited to bring Bonsai Bar to Colorado and collaborate with local breweries to offer a unique experience that blends the art of bonsai with the state’s vibrant craft beer scene,” said Tim Arsenault, CEO and Founder of Bonsai Bar. “Our workshops are designed to be engaging and accessible, allowing participants to unwind, learn, and connect—all while enjoying a local brew.”

    “We’re beyond excited to welcome Bonsai Bar to Colorado and to host their first sold-out class right here at Woods Boss! It’s an incredibly fun, community-driven concept that brings new faces into the taproom and supports the local craft scene in a fresh, creative way. Events like this not only introduce people to the joy of bonsai but also boost the local brewing economy by creating unique experiences that draw people in. We can’t wait to see how this partnership grows—pun intended!” says Rachael Morgan, Taproom Leader at Woods Boss Brewing Company

    The Colorado expansion includes partnerships with the following breweries:

    • Woods Boss Brewing Company – Denver, CO
    • Cohesion Brewing – Denver, CO
    • Gilded Goat Brewing Company (Midtown) – Fort Collins, CO
    • Crooked Stave Brewing Co – Denver, CO
    • Loveland Aleworks – Loveland, CO
    • Sanitas Brewing Company (Englewood) – Englewood, CO
    • Gilded Goat Brewing Company (Downtown) – Fort Collins, CO
    • Crooked Beech Brewing Company – Loveland, CO
    • Sanitas Brewing Company (Lafayette) – Lafayette, CO
    • Asher Brewing – Boulder, CO

    Each workshop offers guests the chance to learn the art of bonsai from expert instructors and create their own tiny tree. The experience includes a brief lesson on bonsai care, with high-quality trees and tools provided for every participant. Whether beginners or seasoned enthusiasts, Bonsai Bar ensures everyone leaves with a deeper appreciation for bonsai and the satisfaction of nurturing their tree.

    “Colorado’s craft beer scene is one of the most vibrant and community-focused in the country, which makes it a perfect match for what we do at Bonsai Bar,” said Ben Arsenault, Colorado Regional Director and Co-Founder of Bonsai Bar. “There’s a shared spirit between craft brewing and bonsai—both require patience, creativity, and a hands-on connection to something living. Pairing these two worlds creates an atmosphere that’s relaxing, educational, and deeply rooted in the community. We’re thrilled to be growing in a place where that kind of synergy thrives.”

    In addition to offering a fun, educational experience, Bonsai Bar is committed to supporting local small businesses, such as craft breweries, wineries, distilleries, and select bars and coffee houses. The company creates a welcoming space for community engagement where people can unwind, learn, and connect—all while enjoying a local brew or spirit.

    For more information about upcoming workshops in Colorado and to reserve your spot, visit Bonsai Bar’s Colorado events page.

    About Bonsai Bar

    Founded in 2021, Bonsai Bar is a national event company bringing the ancient art of bonsai to modern audiences through fun, hands-on workshops hosted at local breweries, wineries, and coffeehouses. With events in over a dozen states, Bonsai Bar is on a mission to make bonsai cultivation accessible, engaging, and community-driven.

    Media Contact:
    Caitlin Jewell
    Chief Marketing Officer
    Bonsai Bar
    Phone: 925-699-3639
    Email: caitlin@bonsaibar.com

    Visit our Press Page for more resources.

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  • The Tech Interactive Hosts Nation’s Largest National AI Literacy Day Event

    The Tech Interactive Hosts Nation’s Largest National AI Literacy Day Event

    More than 900 Bay Area Students, Educators and Community Members Join AI Education Leaders for Day of Hands-On Learning and Dialogue

    SAN JOSE, CA – March 28, 2025 – The Tech Interactive, a world-renowned science, technology, and education center in the heart of Silicon Valley, will today host the largest National AI Literacy Day event in the country, welcoming more than 700 K-12 students from across the Bay Area for a day of hands-on activities designed to build understanding of artificial intelligence. Simultaneously, educators, community leaders, and policymakers will gather for a summit featuring expert panels and a fireside chat with Sal Khan, founder and CEO of Khan Academy.

    Now in its second year, National AI Literacy Day is a nationwide initiative designed to empower students, educators, and families with the tools to engage with AI safely, ethically, and creatively. Organized in partnership with aiEDUEdSafe AI Alliance (InnovateEDU), and Common Sense Media, the goal of National AI Literacy Day is to bring students, educators, and communities together through an immersive exploration and discussion of artificial intelligence. Hundreds of in-person and virtual events will take place across the country, sparking awareness of the immediate need for AI education and the importance of collaboration.

    “Fostering AI literacy requires a collaborative effort that transcends boundaries,” said Katrina Stevens, President and CEO of The Tech Interactive, who was recently named one of GSV Ventures’ 2025 Leading Women in AI. “Only by bringing together individuals from the tech industry, educators, parents, government representatives, and nonprofits, can we collectively empower every child to participate equitably in the AI revolution.”

    The Tech Interactive’s event will empower participants with a deeper understanding of AI’s impact and potential. More than 700 students from Bay Area schools will take field trips to The Tech Interactive to participate in hands-on activities designed to demystify AI and spark curiosity. Meanwhile, educators, industry leaders, government officials, and community members will engage in dynamic discussions about advancing AI literacy, equity, and accessibility in the classroom.

    The AI Literacy Summit will bring together leaders from education, government, and industry to explore how to prepare students for an AI-driven future. Highlights include remarks from San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan, Assemblymember Marc Berman, Santa Clara County Board of Education Trustee Jorge Pacheco, and Katrina Stevens, President and CEO of The Tech Interactive, along with a fireside chat with Sal Khan, founder of Khan Academy. Panel discussions will feature voices from organizations such as Google, Adobe, aiEDU, Digital Promise, and the Kapor Foundation, along with student and school district perspectives.

    Embracing its role as a leading hub for science and technology education, The Tech Interactive has expanded its commitment to AI literacy with the opening of Dream Garden, an AI-powered immersive exhibit, and AI Sandbox, a hands-on gallery where visitors of all ages can explore and engage with AI in meaningful ways. The Tech has also released a robust set of AI education resources for Grades K-12, including standards-aligned lesson plans, discussion guides, and videos—available for free at thetech.org/ai.

    For educators and parents eager to join the AI literacy movement, a library of free resources and live and on-demand professional development series from many national organizations are available at https://www.ailiteracyday.org/

    The National AI Literacy Day is made possible by the generous financial support from Valhalla Foundation, Google.org, OpenAI, Salesforce, and Booz Allen.

    Note: Photos and video will be made available following the event. Contact publicrelations@thetech.org for more information.

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  • Acclaimed Hollywood Actress Lauren E. Banks Returns to Durham for Images & Ideas Collaboration with Hayti Heritage Center

    Acclaimed Hollywood Actress Lauren E. Banks Returns to Durham for Images & Ideas Collaboration with Hayti Heritage Center

    DURHAM, NC – March 6, 2025 – We are thrilled to announce the return of Lauren E. Banks to her hometown of Durham for a special weekend event celebrating indie cinema and cultural exchange. Join us at the Hayti Heritage Center for “Images & Ideas: Celebrating 30 Years of Film at Hayti,” where Banks will share her Hollywood experiences and passion for arts education through workshops and discussions.

    Lauren E. Banks, known for her roles in “City On A Hill” and “Lawmen: Bass Reeves,” comes back to her hometown not only to showcase her own film “Noelle Mercy,” but also to mentor aspiring artists in the Durham area.

    “Returning to Durham to inspire young voices in the arts is a dream,” says Banks, “It’s about giving back to the community that nurtured my creative spirit.”

    “Lauren is a Durham native and previous collaborator with Hayti” says Sam, the Marketing Coordinator at Hayti Heritage Center “so we were excited when she reached out to collaborate with us to create an event like this when we needed to to pause the Hayti Heritage Film Festival.”

    The event that came out of this collaboration, “Images & Ideas,” features a diverse lineup of activities, including film screenings and workshops, offering a platform for cultural dialogue and artistic inspiration straight from Hollywood and making it available to all ages locally in Durham.

    On Saturday, March 15th, attendees can look forward to the “Actor’s Workshop” working Banks herself leveraging the skills she’s learned in Hollywood and bringing them back to her community to provide professional level mentorship to the youth and adults that are interested in acting. With the goal of providing direct and meaningful impact to her home.

    On Sunday, March 16th, attendees can come enjoy “Cinema Sundaze,” a Hayti Heritage Film Festival Popup screening a unique range of films, curated by Banks herself, and featuring talkback sessions after each film where the audience is encouraged to have a conversation with the artists to understand how and why they created the film on screen! At the end of “Sundaze,” participants can also join a VIP reception with the talent to meet new visitors to the area and boomerangs returning home for the night like Banks.

    Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with one of Durham’s own and explore the rich tapestry of indie cinema. Tickets are available for the entire weekend or for individual sessions and start at $30.

    They can be purchased at
    https://eventvesta.com/events/99107/t/tickets

    About Lauren Banks:

    Banks is a Durham native most known for her roles in “Lawmen: Bass Reeves” (Paramount+) and “City On A Hill” (Showtime). She is also an alumna of Howard University and holds a Master in Fine Arts from the Yale School of Drama and is a Ron Van Lieu Teaching Fellowship recipient with nearly 15 years of teaching experience and a deep passion for arts education.

    About the St. Joseph’s Historic Foundation, Inc. (Hayti Heritage Center):

    The St. Joseph’s Historic Foundation, Inc. (SJHF) founded in 1975, is deeply rooted in the historic Hayti community of Durham, North Carolina. The once thriving business and residential district was dubbed “Black Wall Street” by Booker T. Washington.

    The Hayti Heritage Center opened in 1975 under the management of the SJHF. The Center is a cultural enrichment and arts education facility that promotes cultural understanding through diverse events, activities and programs that preserve the heritage and embrace the experiences of Americans of African descent.

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  • Bonsai Bar: Cultivating Creativity, Community, and Connection Across Breweries and Distilleries

    Bonsai Bar: Cultivating Creativity, Community, and Connection Across Breweries and Distilleries

    SAN FRANCISCO, CA – February 17, 2025 – Bonsai Bar, the innovative pop-up bonsai workshop, is excited to announce its continued growth as it expands its hands-on bonsai experiences to craft breweries and distilleries in new markets. Founded in 2021 by Tim Arsenault, Bonsai Bar’s mission is simple yet powerful: to combine the calming, creative process of bonsai cultivation with a fun, educational experience that fosters community connection.

    What began as a solo project in response to the reopening of small breweries during the pandemic has grown into a nationwide movement. With an 11-person team and workshops now in 12 states and 16 markets, Bonsai Bar continues to bring people together through nature and creativity. Each workshop offers guests the chance to learn the art of bonsai from expert instructors and create their own tiny tree. The experience includes a brief lesson on bonsai care, and high-quality trees and tools are provided for every participant. Whether beginners or seasoned enthusiasts, Bonsai Bar ensures everyone leaves with a deeper appreciation for bonsai and the satisfaction of nurturing their tree.

    In addition to offering a fun, educational experience, Bonsai Bar is committed to supporting local small businesses, such as craft breweries, wineries, distilleries and select bars and coffee houses. The company creates a welcoming space for community engagement where people can unwind, learn, and connect—all while enjoying a local brew or spirit. “I’m excited to bring new energy and people into the world of bonsai,” said Tim Arsenault, CEO and Founder. “Every class, I see a spark in people’s eyes as they discover this art, and if we inspire just a few to dive deeper, we’ll change American bonsai for generations to come.”

    In 2024, Bonsai Bar worked with 31,000+ workshop attendees and hopes to beat that number in 2025. Looking ahead to 2025, Bonsai Bar is expanding into Colorado and Northern California, continuing its mission to bring the joy of bonsai to new markets and strengthen connections within local communities.

    2025 Bonsai Bar California Bear Hug Tour

    Tuesday, March 26: Drake’s Barrel House San Leandro, California

    Wednesday, March 27 Canyon Club Brewing Moraga, California

    Thursday, March 28 Faction Brewing, Alameda, California

    Friday, March 29, Devil”s Canyon Brewing, San Carlos, California

  • Far Out Bluegrass Showcase Comes to Omaha June 3

    Far Out Bluegrass Showcase Comes to Omaha June 3

    Sandy Creek Pickers, Buffalo Galaxy, and Average Joey & The Rabble Rousers bring an eclectic twist on traditional bluegrass to Dry Spokes

    OMAHA, NE – May 10, 2024 – Happy Heron Presents is bringing a genre-bending bluegrass experience to Omaha with the Far Out Bluegrass Showcase on Monday, June 3rd, 2024 at Dry Spokes Craft Mocktail Lounge. Featuring a blend of regional talent and nationally touring acts, the evening promises a fresh, intimate night of music that reimagines what bluegrass can be.

    The lineup features local bluegrass legends Sandy Creek Pickers, along with two touring acts—Buffalo Galaxy (Minneapolis, MN) and Average Joey & The Rabble Rousers (Hudson Valley, NY)—both known for their psychedelic and punk-infused spins on traditional Americana.

    “This is a great chance to see two rare touring acts in Omaha on the same night,” says Craig Heron, owner of Happy Heron Presents. “Bluegrass is the unifying element between these bands, but they all put their own spin on the genre. I’m really excited to bring these elements together for one night.”

    Sandy Creek Pickers, featuring multiple Winfield National Flatpicking and Fiddle Champions, will kick off the show with their signature high-energy set that’s become a staple in the Nebraska and Western Iowa bluegrass scene.

    Buffalo Galaxy describes their sound as “Deep Space, Light Speed, Bluegrass,” blending jam-band energy with old-time pickin’—a formula that’s landed them spots at major festivals across the country.

    Average Joey & The Rabble Rousers bring a darker folk-punk edge, rooted in Appalachian traditions. As a special surprise, The Lady Slipper will join Average Joey for a burlesque and tap-infused performance that adds a theatrical and rhythmic twist to the evening.

    The event takes place at Dry Spokes (1901 Leavenworth St), Omaha’s sober craft mocktail bar and intimate performance space. The venue is 18+ unless accompanied by an adult guardian. While the event is alcohol-free, attendees often note how much fun they have discovering a new kind of nightlife without the hangover.

    Tickets: $15 in advance, $20 at the door. No one will be turned away for lack of funds.
    Doors: 6:00 PM | Show ends by 10:00 PM
    Venue: Dry Spokes, 1901 Leavenworth St, Omaha, NE 68102
    Parking: Available on Leavenworth and 19th Street

    All performers are paid fairly—fans are encouraged to support them further by buying merch!

    More Info:
    Dry Spokes Venue: https://www.dryspokes.com
    Sandy Creek Pickers: Facebook Page
    Buffalo Galaxy: https://www.buffalogalaxy.com
    Average Joey: YouTube Channel