March 27, 2002 – Proving once again that you never know who might show up for a "Friday Night Alternative" session, last week's get-together in Red Hook attracted a whole Rotary group, including Lawrence Benjamin Sr., who, naturally enough, gravitated to the microphone.
"It was wonderful!" host Corinne Van Rensselaer said of Benjamin's singing, which once graced the Metropolitan Opera Chorus.
Opera isn't an offering so far for the weekly "FNA" gatherings at American Yacht Harbor (Benjamin sang "Unchained Melody"), but, again, you never know. Blues, R&B, folk and jazz are staples, and flamenco was featured not long ago.
At the moment, a certain well-known local jazz chanteuse is back on island and just might show up for this Friday's get-together on the broad Marlin Deck outside of The Color of Joy, Van Rensselaer's art gallery and boutique. As usual, Sally Smith will anchor the entertainment on keyboard and vocals.
Hours are 6 to 8 p.m. Admission's free, and so are the wine, cheese and crackers. To keep "FNA" going, patrons are encouraged to buy official T-shirts and tickets for the monthly raffle of an art item donated by The Color of Joy. To learn more, call 755-4020.
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