Thursday, August 05, 2004
Newsday.com - Long Island NewsBill's coming to call
Email this story
Printer friendly format
Photos
Poster advertising President Clinton's appearance (Newsday Photo/Karen Wiles Stabile)
More Coverage
Guidelines to get you through the visit
Aug 6, 2004
Top Stories
Bill's coming to call
Enter a Category
View List
BY AMAYA LARRAÑETA
STAFF WRITER
August 6, 2004
Teresa Greco clutched a plastic bag to her chest Wednesday containing two copies of Bill Clinton's new book as if it were a treasure. Greco was among the last to get one of the copies the author will sign Saturday at the Book Revue in Huntington.
Greco, 28, who camped out Tuesday night with several dozen other people to get a copy, said she did it because "Clinton was the first president" she voted for.
The visit of the 42nd president has town residents euphoric and the bookstore employees stressed.
"I must have received over 10,000 calls asking for information," said Richard Klein, co-owner of the Book Revue.
The store got three shipments in the last week, and long lines formed each time.
Under a strict schedule, Clinton has agreed to sign only 1,000 books. However, the way the store decided who would get them upset some customers.
Book Revue promoted Clinton's signing event in a big store poster and on its Web site, saying there would be only one book sold per customer. However, customers were allowed to buy as many as three books.
Martha Siegel, 51, a Huntington resident, waited three hours but reached the store's counter Wednesday after the guaranteed-autograph copies were sold out. "I am very upset. I thought they were selling one book per person. What they did only benefits scalpers."
The store then decided to sell 200 more books in case the ex-president has extra time. "We are telling every customer that buys one of these 200 books that they are taking a long shot," Klein said. "Their book might not be signed."
Buyers were also informed they could get refunds if Clinton doesn't sign.
As Siegel and other customers pointed out, several scalpers in Huntington near the bookstore were already on Wednesday offering a signature-winning book for $100, nearly three times its actual price of $35, plus tax.
On eBay Thursday, books signed by Clinton were selling for more than $300.
Clinton's memoir was released in June and has already sold 1.6 million books. He will arrive in Huntington surrounded by plenty of security shortly before the 1 p.m. scheduled signing.
Members of the Secret Service paid a visit to the Book Revue earlier this week. "They were interested in learning how we were thinking of setting up the event, the logistics, where the exit and entrances to the bookstore were ... " Klein said.
Besides Clinton's personal security, Suffolk police will also guard the bookstore's entrance.
Sgt. Ken MacArthur, of the Second Precinct, said extra officers will direct the traffic flow and control the crowd.
The owners of the Book Revue expect their biggest crowd ever. The largest so far was the 2,400 people drawn by former President Jimmy Carter six years ago. Clinton's wife, Sen. Hillary Clinton (D-N.Y.), drew several hundred in June 2003 for a book-signing. "For many, many people, it is very exciting to see a president," Klein said. But they do not anticipate any protests.
For security reasons, the store will close its doors even before the signing event starts.
The first 1,000 customers with a stickered book will stand in one queue. A supplementary line will be set up for the extra 200, who will get a different sticker. Teresa Greco will be in the first line and Martha Siegel in the second, both waiting for the moment when Clinton signs their book and possibly shakes their hand.
"It is a historic moment. A president is coming to Huntington," said Siegel, but, she said, she will return the book if it doesn't get signed.
Email this story
Printer friendly format
Photos
Poster advertising President Clinton's appearance (Newsday Photo/Karen Wiles Stabile)
More Coverage
Guidelines to get you through the visit
Aug 6, 2004
Top Stories
Bill's coming to call
Enter a Category
View List
BY AMAYA LARRAÑETA
STAFF WRITER
August 6, 2004
Teresa Greco clutched a plastic bag to her chest Wednesday containing two copies of Bill Clinton's new book as if it were a treasure. Greco was among the last to get one of the copies the author will sign Saturday at the Book Revue in Huntington.
Greco, 28, who camped out Tuesday night with several dozen other people to get a copy, said she did it because "Clinton was the first president" she voted for.
The visit of the 42nd president has town residents euphoric and the bookstore employees stressed.
"I must have received over 10,000 calls asking for information," said Richard Klein, co-owner of the Book Revue.
The store got three shipments in the last week, and long lines formed each time.
Under a strict schedule, Clinton has agreed to sign only 1,000 books. However, the way the store decided who would get them upset some customers.
Book Revue promoted Clinton's signing event in a big store poster and on its Web site, saying there would be only one book sold per customer. However, customers were allowed to buy as many as three books.
Martha Siegel, 51, a Huntington resident, waited three hours but reached the store's counter Wednesday after the guaranteed-autograph copies were sold out. "I am very upset. I thought they were selling one book per person. What they did only benefits scalpers."
The store then decided to sell 200 more books in case the ex-president has extra time. "We are telling every customer that buys one of these 200 books that they are taking a long shot," Klein said. "Their book might not be signed."
Buyers were also informed they could get refunds if Clinton doesn't sign.
As Siegel and other customers pointed out, several scalpers in Huntington near the bookstore were already on Wednesday offering a signature-winning book for $100, nearly three times its actual price of $35, plus tax.
On eBay Thursday, books signed by Clinton were selling for more than $300.
Clinton's memoir was released in June and has already sold 1.6 million books. He will arrive in Huntington surrounded by plenty of security shortly before the 1 p.m. scheduled signing.
Members of the Secret Service paid a visit to the Book Revue earlier this week. "They were interested in learning how we were thinking of setting up the event, the logistics, where the exit and entrances to the bookstore were ... " Klein said.
Besides Clinton's personal security, Suffolk police will also guard the bookstore's entrance.
Sgt. Ken MacArthur, of the Second Precinct, said extra officers will direct the traffic flow and control the crowd.
The owners of the Book Revue expect their biggest crowd ever. The largest so far was the 2,400 people drawn by former President Jimmy Carter six years ago. Clinton's wife, Sen. Hillary Clinton (D-N.Y.), drew several hundred in June 2003 for a book-signing. "For many, many people, it is very exciting to see a president," Klein said. But they do not anticipate any protests.
For security reasons, the store will close its doors even before the signing event starts.
The first 1,000 customers with a stickered book will stand in one queue. A supplementary line will be set up for the extra 200, who will get a different sticker. Teresa Greco will be in the first line and Martha Siegel in the second, both waiting for the moment when Clinton signs their book and possibly shakes their hand.
"It is a historic moment. A president is coming to Huntington," said Siegel, but, she said, she will return the book if it doesn't get signed.
Wednesday, August 04, 2004
AP Wire | 08/04/2004 | Upcoming tourism events around MinnesotaThis is the Explore Minnesota Events Report as of Wednesday, Aug. 4, brought to you by the Minnesota Office of Tourism.
The Freeborn County Fair will take place in ALBERT LEA, August 3-8, with the latest in country entertainment,other grandstand concerts by favorite acts, a demolition derby, tractor pull, exhibits and concessions. To find out more, dial 1-800-345-8414, or check out www.freeborncountyfair.com
The Zwingli United Church of Christ in the city of BERNE will host the Berne Swissfest, Saturday, August 7 and Sunday, August 8. Featured will be Swiss yodelers, woodcarvers, Swiss wrestling, stone throwing, folk dancers, Swiss bands, stage programs, bobbin lace and wood painting demonstrations, Swiss flag throwing, handbell concerts, Swiss foods and candy, a Kinder Korner, costume style show, a Yodelfest, and Swiss worship service. The Berne Swissfest is claimed to be the most authentic Swiss festival in North America. To learn more, dial 1-800-322-2478.
Braham Pie Day will be held in Freedom Park in the city of BRAHAM, on Friday, August 6. Braham is known as the "Homemade Pie Capital of Minnesota" and celebrates each year with arts and crafts, live music and entertainment, a quilt show, over 800 homemade pies, a pie and ice cream social, four-person pie relay race, children's activity tent, collectors' car show, pie baking contest, two pie eating contests, and an evening concert and dance. And on Saturday, August 7, there will be an Appreciation Day Parade. To find out more, dial 320-396-4956, or visit www.braham.com
The city of BRAINERD will be the site of the Crow Wing County Fair, Tuesday through Sunday, August 3-8. Highlights include nightly grandstand events, horse shows, livestock exhibits, carnival rides, commercial displays, and more.And nearby, in the town of Pine River, the Pine River Community and Merchant Garage Sale will be held August 6 and 7. For further information, please contact the city of Brainerd at 1-800-450-2838.
A Come Home To Cannon Falls Sesquicentennial Celebration will be offered throughout the city of CANNON FALLS, August 13-15. Just some of the many highlights during this 150th birthday party will be an all-school reunion, living history displays, pioneer family recognition, a parade, ice cream social, historic tours, a dance and social, variety show, a Historic Quest and treasure hunt, old-fashioned games, make and take crafts, storytelling by Native American Joe Campbell, and cemetery tours. A sesquicentennial button is required for most events, and buttons are on sale at local retail stores. To learn more, dial 507-263-2289, or visit www.cannonfalls.com-sesquicentennial
The 119th annual St. Louis county fair will be held next to the Ironworld Discovery Center in the city of CHISHOLM, Wednesday through Sunday, August 4-8. Featured will be midway rides and games, livestock exhibits, commercial displays, competitive exhibits, free entertainment, demonstrations, live music, a fashion show, polka party, evening ride specials, a pet show, and children's activities. To learn more, dial 218-263-4256.
The Hennepin County Fair will be held at Lion's Park in the city of CORCORAN, Thursday through Sunday, August 5-8. Just some of the many highlights include carnival games and midway rides, a dog show, magic shows, animal barns, a Bull Riding Bonanza, bingo, demolition derbies, fireworks, a talent show, petting zoo, pony rides, children's activities, and helicopter rides!For rates and times, dial 763-420-4546, or check out www.hennepincountyfair.com
The Soo Pass Ranch in DETROIT LAKES will be the site of The 22nd Annual We Fest, Thursday through Sunday, August 5-8. This is considered to be the world's largest outdoor country music and camping festival, with national performers such as Trace Adkins, Travis Tritt, Kenny Chesney, the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, Lorrie Morgan, Tim McGraw, Tracy Byrd, Sawyer Brown and George Strait. To find out more, dial 1-800-493-3378, or check out www.wefest.com
The 16Th Annual Bayfront Blues Festival will be held at Bayfront Festival Park in the city of DULUTH, August 12-15, with outdoor music featuring international, national and regional acts at the Leinenkugel Stage, Fond-du-Luth Casino Stage, Acoustic Tent, and on Mardi Gras Moonlight Cruises. For more information, check out www.bayfrontblues.com or dial 1-800-4-DULUTH.
The annual Fisherman's Picnic will be held throughout the city of GRAND MARAIS, August 5-8. Just some of the many highlights include live music, a parade, fireworks display, various sports tournaments, a Big Fish contest, kids' day camp, crazy days sales, kiddie rides and games, fishburger stands, a loon calling contest, bingo, cute puppy contest, library book sales, the 5th Annual Grand Marais-Cook County Airport Fly-in, a log sawing contest, and $10,000 grand prize raffle, plus numerous other prizes. For more information, dial 1-888-922-5000.
Old Central School in GRAND RAPIDS will be the site of Tall Timber Days, Saturday and Sunday, August 7 and 8, with a lumberjack show, arts and crafts, street games for the kids, wagon rides, ongoing entertainment, chain saw carving demonstrations, canoe races, bed races, and a parade. In addition, the 4th Annual Greater Grand Rapids Rodeo will be held August 7 and 8 at the Itasca County Fairgrounds. And nearby, the 16th Annual White Oak Rendezvous will take place at the White Oak Fur Post in Deer River, August 7 and 8. Visitors will learn firsthand the skills, lifestyles, and games of the 1798 Voyageurs and Ojibwe, with plenty of period foods.And, Traders Row will offer a wide variety of 18th-century crafts, supplies and equipment. To learn more, dial 1-800-472-6366.
The 33rd Annual Polska Kielbasa Days will be held throughout the city of IVANHOE, Friday through Sunday, August 13-15. In a celebration of its Polish Heritage there will be a wide variety of ethnic foods, a heritage program, flea market and craft sale, kids' games and rides, a kiddie tractor pull, softball, volleyball, golf and 3-on-3 basketball tournaments, karaoke, and large fireworks display. To find out more, dial 507-694-1138 or 1-800-442-9854.
The city of JORDAN will be the site of the 41st Annual Scott-Carver Threshers Old Time Harvest Festival, August 6-8. Featured will be demonstrations of plowing, corn-shredding, and threshing using steam engines, as well as log sawing, stationary engines, a blacksmith and much more. Other activities include a kiddie tractor pull, square dancing, live music, and slow tractor race. For more information, dial 952-492-2062.
Buffalo Bill Days will be held in the city of LANESBORO, Friday through Sunday, August 6-8. This celebration of Lanesboro includes dances, a marketplace, food booths, live entertainment, a grand parade, crafts, softball and volleyball tournaments, and more. For further information, dial 1-800-944-2670.
The Minnesota Vikings' Training Camp will be held at the University of MN Mankato Campus in MANKATO through August 19. Viking Village will offer a variety of entertainment and activities for the entire family throughout the Training Camp, with an air-conditioned merchandise tent, music, contests, special events, autograph zone, and more. Practices and special events vary each day.To learn more, dial 1-800-657-4733, or check out www.vikingstrainingcamp.com
The city of MANKATO will hold The 7th Annual Hickory Street Ribfest, Thursday, August 5 through Sunday, August 8. Enjoy ribs by six "ribbers" from throughout the United States competing for cash and prizes. In addition, there will be ongoing live music on two stages by 25 popular regional acts, as well as games and entertainment for the entire family!For more information, dial 1-800-657-4733.
The Minnesota Orchestra Sommerfest will be held at Orchestra Hall in downtown MINNEAPOLIS through August 7, with four weeks of concerts featuring rising classical music stars and top conductors. To learn more, dial 612-371-5656, or check out www.minnesotaorchestra.org-summer
The Uptown neighborhood of MINNEAPOLIS will be the site of the Metris Uptown Art Fair, Friday, August 6 through Sunday, August 8, and draws more than 385 artists and 450,000 art lovers from across the nation. In addition, there will be performances by Cirque du Soleil, Mick Sterling, and the Soul Tight Committee. Visitors will also enjoy the Claymobile Family Imagination Station, LAY'S Challenge Booth, Kids' Creative Art Station, and the Purina Cat Show Way of Life Experience. The fair is located along Hennepin Avenue between 28th and 31st Streets, and continues down The Mall parkway. To find out more, dial 612-823-4581 or visit www.uptownminneapolis.com-art-fair
Minnesota Fringe Festival events will be held at 24 locations in the Loring Park, Downtown and Uptown neighborhoods of MINNEAPOLIS, from Friday, August 6 through Sunday, August 15. This 10-day festival of live performance features theater, movement, spoken word, puppetry, and more, with over 850 performances in all. For specific events, locations, rates and times, dial 612-872-1212 or check out www.fringefestival.org
The 6th Annual Freedom Jazz Festival will be held at Minnehaha Falls Park in MINNEAPOLIS, on Saturday, August 14. This free musical concert features classic, native, fusion, world, and funk by established artists, novice, and up-and-coming jazz musicians.In addition, visitors will enjoy open jam sessions, children's activities, face painting, food and beverage sales, and more. For further information, dial 612-827-2422, or visit www.FreedomJazzFestival.org
Jackpot Junction Casino Hotel in the city of MORTON will present Leann Rimes on Friday, August 13, and Hotel California -A Salute To The Eagles, September 24. For rates and times, dial 1-800-WIN-CASH, or for more on the Morton and Redwood Falls vicinity, dial 1-800-657-5757.
The city of PIPESTONE will present the Song Of Hiawatha Pageant, each Friday through Sunday, through August 8. This annual pageant, based on Longfellow's poem, is held in a large outdoor amphitheater filled with elaborate lighting and costumes, as well as a cast of over 200. For more information, and for rates and times, dial 1-800-430-4126.
The Village of RANIER, located near the city of International Falls, will host the Ranier Summer Festival, Friday and Saturday, August 13 and 14, on the shores of Rainy Lake. Highlights include a community orchestra concert, Woody's Fairly Reliable Sailing Regatta, music on the boardwalk, art exhibits and a parade. To learn more, dial 1-800-325-5766.
Farmfest will be held at the Gilfillan Estate in REDWOOD FALLS, Tuesday through Thursday, August 3-5. Highlights include large outdoor exhibits, indoor exhibits, seed plots, field demonstrations, toy equipment, craft booths, educational seminars, legislative forums, antique tractor demonstrations, family programs and entertainment on over 50 areas of farmland. To learn more, dial 1-800-827-8007, or visit their web site at www.farmfest.com
The annual Minnesota Bluegrass and Old-Time Music Festival will be held at El Rancho Manana Resort in the city of RICHMOND, Thursday, August 12 through Sunday, August 15, with some of the hottest acts in bluegrass and old-time stringband music. In addition, there will be workshops, instrument showcases, dances, demonstrations, kid's activities, displays, great food, and plenty of campground jam sessions. For rates and times, dial 1-800-635-3037.
The Olmsted County Fairgrounds in the city of ROCHESTER will be the site of the Olmsted County Fair through Sunday, August 8. Featured will be carnival rides and games, live music, food vendors, beer gardens, animal barns, exhibits, demonstrations, and more. And on Saturday, August 7, Rochester Aviation History Day will be held at the Rochester International Airport, with an aviation history-oriented program, as well as 100 aircraft, pictorial displays and more. For further information, dial 1-800-634-8277.
The Renaissance Festival Grounds, located south of SHAKOPEE off Hwy 169, will be the site of the 2004 Minnesota Renaissance Festival each Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 14-Sept. 26, including Labor Day and Festival Friday, September 24. Featured will be over 275 craft shops by talented artisans, lively entertainment, unusual foods, unique crafts and family fun. Each weekend has a different theme, beginning with the Highland Fling, August 14and 15, featuring heavy games, traditional highland dancing, the history of the Scottish Clans, shepherding demonstrations, and Scottish dog exhibits. Other highlights include the Feast of Fantasy, Royal High Tea, the Renaissance Smoker, Royal Wine Tasting, and demonstrations of period arts such as blacksmithing, brass rubbings, calligraphy, glassblowing and glass etching, glass lampwork, metal casting, metal coin minting, papermaking, printing, bookbinding, perfume-making, pottery, and woodworking. For more information, dial 1-800-966-8215 or visit www.renaissancefest.com
A Classic Car Show and Crazy Days Sale will be offered by the city of WARROAD, Friday and Saturday, August 6 and 7, with classic and collector cars on display at the beach on Lake of the Woods. Featured will be a Show N' Shine, Cruise to the Lake, music and social. For more information, dial 1-800-328-4455. And to the north, the Northwest Angle and Islands area will be the site of the annual Blueberry Festival and Chili Cook-Off, August 6-8. Highlights include a Chili Cook-Off with 15 contestants competing for the title of Chili Cook-Off Champion, as well as a Brat Fest, Blueberry Dessert Contest, Talent Show, Art Fair, Blueberry Spitting Contest, and much more. For further information, please dial toll-free 1-866-692-6453.
And just some of the upcoming concerts and performances in the TWIN CITIES vicinity will include: Phantom Of The Opera at the Historic Orpheum Theatre in Minneapolis, through August 8; Chicago and Earth, Wind and Fire at the Target Center in Minneapolis, August 4; Marshall Field's Glamorama with Patti Labelle, Renee Olstead and Jerry Hall at the Historic State Theatre in Minneapolis, August 6; Jerry Jeff Walker at the Fitzgerald Theater in St. Paul, August 7; Weird Al Yankovic at the Historic State Theatre, August 12; Heart at the Historic State Theatre, August 14; Metallica at the Xcel Energy Center in St. Paul, August 16; Aretha Franklin at Mystic Lake Celebrity Palace in Prior Lake, August 17; Bond at the Pantages Theatre in Minneapolis, August 18; The Battle Of The Hockey Gladiators at the Target Center, August 20; Deep Purple with Joe Satriani and Thin Lizzy at the Xcel Energy Center, August 24; Chicks With Attitude with Liz Phair at the Historic Orpheum Theatre in Minneapolis, August 25; Gloria Estefan at the Target Center, August 27; Sarah Mclachlan at the Xcel Energy Center, September 4; Yes and Dream Theater at the Target Center, September 7; Hall and Oates with Michael Mcdonald and The Average White Band at the Excel Energy Center, September 8; Usher at the Target Center, September 9; Fourplay at the Fitzgerald Theater, September 11; Norah Jones at the Xcel Energy Center, September 11; The Campbells' International Figure Skating Classic at the Xcel Energy Center, October 1; The T.J. Maxx 2004 Tour Of Gymnastics Champions at the Xcel Energy Center, October 10; Wynonna at the O'Shaughnessy Auditorium in St. Paul, October 15; Jerry Seinfeld at the Northrop Auditorium in Minneapolis, October 16; Wayne Brady at Mystic Lake Celebrity Palace, October 26; David Sedaris at the Fitzgerald Theater in St. Paul, November 3; The Pixies at the Roy Wilkins Auditorium in St. Paul, November 10 and 11; Riverdance at the Historic Orpheum Theatre in Minneapolis, November 27. For further information on any of these performances, please contact Ticketmaster at 651-989-5151.
The Freeborn County Fair will take place in ALBERT LEA, August 3-8, with the latest in country entertainment,other grandstand concerts by favorite acts, a demolition derby, tractor pull, exhibits and concessions. To find out more, dial 1-800-345-8414, or check out www.freeborncountyfair.com
The Zwingli United Church of Christ in the city of BERNE will host the Berne Swissfest, Saturday, August 7 and Sunday, August 8. Featured will be Swiss yodelers, woodcarvers, Swiss wrestling, stone throwing, folk dancers, Swiss bands, stage programs, bobbin lace and wood painting demonstrations, Swiss flag throwing, handbell concerts, Swiss foods and candy, a Kinder Korner, costume style show, a Yodelfest, and Swiss worship service. The Berne Swissfest is claimed to be the most authentic Swiss festival in North America. To learn more, dial 1-800-322-2478.
Braham Pie Day will be held in Freedom Park in the city of BRAHAM, on Friday, August 6. Braham is known as the "Homemade Pie Capital of Minnesota" and celebrates each year with arts and crafts, live music and entertainment, a quilt show, over 800 homemade pies, a pie and ice cream social, four-person pie relay race, children's activity tent, collectors' car show, pie baking contest, two pie eating contests, and an evening concert and dance. And on Saturday, August 7, there will be an Appreciation Day Parade. To find out more, dial 320-396-4956, or visit www.braham.com
The city of BRAINERD will be the site of the Crow Wing County Fair, Tuesday through Sunday, August 3-8. Highlights include nightly grandstand events, horse shows, livestock exhibits, carnival rides, commercial displays, and more.And nearby, in the town of Pine River, the Pine River Community and Merchant Garage Sale will be held August 6 and 7. For further information, please contact the city of Brainerd at 1-800-450-2838.
A Come Home To Cannon Falls Sesquicentennial Celebration will be offered throughout the city of CANNON FALLS, August 13-15. Just some of the many highlights during this 150th birthday party will be an all-school reunion, living history displays, pioneer family recognition, a parade, ice cream social, historic tours, a dance and social, variety show, a Historic Quest and treasure hunt, old-fashioned games, make and take crafts, storytelling by Native American Joe Campbell, and cemetery tours. A sesquicentennial button is required for most events, and buttons are on sale at local retail stores. To learn more, dial 507-263-2289, or visit www.cannonfalls.com-sesquicentennial
The 119th annual St. Louis county fair will be held next to the Ironworld Discovery Center in the city of CHISHOLM, Wednesday through Sunday, August 4-8. Featured will be midway rides and games, livestock exhibits, commercial displays, competitive exhibits, free entertainment, demonstrations, live music, a fashion show, polka party, evening ride specials, a pet show, and children's activities. To learn more, dial 218-263-4256.
The Hennepin County Fair will be held at Lion's Park in the city of CORCORAN, Thursday through Sunday, August 5-8. Just some of the many highlights include carnival games and midway rides, a dog show, magic shows, animal barns, a Bull Riding Bonanza, bingo, demolition derbies, fireworks, a talent show, petting zoo, pony rides, children's activities, and helicopter rides!For rates and times, dial 763-420-4546, or check out www.hennepincountyfair.com
The Soo Pass Ranch in DETROIT LAKES will be the site of The 22nd Annual We Fest, Thursday through Sunday, August 5-8. This is considered to be the world's largest outdoor country music and camping festival, with national performers such as Trace Adkins, Travis Tritt, Kenny Chesney, the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, Lorrie Morgan, Tim McGraw, Tracy Byrd, Sawyer Brown and George Strait. To find out more, dial 1-800-493-3378, or check out www.wefest.com
The 16Th Annual Bayfront Blues Festival will be held at Bayfront Festival Park in the city of DULUTH, August 12-15, with outdoor music featuring international, national and regional acts at the Leinenkugel Stage, Fond-du-Luth Casino Stage, Acoustic Tent, and on Mardi Gras Moonlight Cruises. For more information, check out www.bayfrontblues.com or dial 1-800-4-DULUTH.
The annual Fisherman's Picnic will be held throughout the city of GRAND MARAIS, August 5-8. Just some of the many highlights include live music, a parade, fireworks display, various sports tournaments, a Big Fish contest, kids' day camp, crazy days sales, kiddie rides and games, fishburger stands, a loon calling contest, bingo, cute puppy contest, library book sales, the 5th Annual Grand Marais-Cook County Airport Fly-in, a log sawing contest, and $10,000 grand prize raffle, plus numerous other prizes. For more information, dial 1-888-922-5000.
Old Central School in GRAND RAPIDS will be the site of Tall Timber Days, Saturday and Sunday, August 7 and 8, with a lumberjack show, arts and crafts, street games for the kids, wagon rides, ongoing entertainment, chain saw carving demonstrations, canoe races, bed races, and a parade. In addition, the 4th Annual Greater Grand Rapids Rodeo will be held August 7 and 8 at the Itasca County Fairgrounds. And nearby, the 16th Annual White Oak Rendezvous will take place at the White Oak Fur Post in Deer River, August 7 and 8. Visitors will learn firsthand the skills, lifestyles, and games of the 1798 Voyageurs and Ojibwe, with plenty of period foods.And, Traders Row will offer a wide variety of 18th-century crafts, supplies and equipment. To learn more, dial 1-800-472-6366.
The 33rd Annual Polska Kielbasa Days will be held throughout the city of IVANHOE, Friday through Sunday, August 13-15. In a celebration of its Polish Heritage there will be a wide variety of ethnic foods, a heritage program, flea market and craft sale, kids' games and rides, a kiddie tractor pull, softball, volleyball, golf and 3-on-3 basketball tournaments, karaoke, and large fireworks display. To find out more, dial 507-694-1138 or 1-800-442-9854.
The city of JORDAN will be the site of the 41st Annual Scott-Carver Threshers Old Time Harvest Festival, August 6-8. Featured will be demonstrations of plowing, corn-shredding, and threshing using steam engines, as well as log sawing, stationary engines, a blacksmith and much more. Other activities include a kiddie tractor pull, square dancing, live music, and slow tractor race. For more information, dial 952-492-2062.
Buffalo Bill Days will be held in the city of LANESBORO, Friday through Sunday, August 6-8. This celebration of Lanesboro includes dances, a marketplace, food booths, live entertainment, a grand parade, crafts, softball and volleyball tournaments, and more. For further information, dial 1-800-944-2670.
The Minnesota Vikings' Training Camp will be held at the University of MN Mankato Campus in MANKATO through August 19. Viking Village will offer a variety of entertainment and activities for the entire family throughout the Training Camp, with an air-conditioned merchandise tent, music, contests, special events, autograph zone, and more. Practices and special events vary each day.To learn more, dial 1-800-657-4733, or check out www.vikingstrainingcamp.com
The city of MANKATO will hold The 7th Annual Hickory Street Ribfest, Thursday, August 5 through Sunday, August 8. Enjoy ribs by six "ribbers" from throughout the United States competing for cash and prizes. In addition, there will be ongoing live music on two stages by 25 popular regional acts, as well as games and entertainment for the entire family!For more information, dial 1-800-657-4733.
The Minnesota Orchestra Sommerfest will be held at Orchestra Hall in downtown MINNEAPOLIS through August 7, with four weeks of concerts featuring rising classical music stars and top conductors. To learn more, dial 612-371-5656, or check out www.minnesotaorchestra.org-summer
The Uptown neighborhood of MINNEAPOLIS will be the site of the Metris Uptown Art Fair, Friday, August 6 through Sunday, August 8, and draws more than 385 artists and 450,000 art lovers from across the nation. In addition, there will be performances by Cirque du Soleil, Mick Sterling, and the Soul Tight Committee. Visitors will also enjoy the Claymobile Family Imagination Station, LAY'S Challenge Booth, Kids' Creative Art Station, and the Purina Cat Show Way of Life Experience. The fair is located along Hennepin Avenue between 28th and 31st Streets, and continues down The Mall parkway. To find out more, dial 612-823-4581 or visit www.uptownminneapolis.com-art-fair
Minnesota Fringe Festival events will be held at 24 locations in the Loring Park, Downtown and Uptown neighborhoods of MINNEAPOLIS, from Friday, August 6 through Sunday, August 15. This 10-day festival of live performance features theater, movement, spoken word, puppetry, and more, with over 850 performances in all. For specific events, locations, rates and times, dial 612-872-1212 or check out www.fringefestival.org
The 6th Annual Freedom Jazz Festival will be held at Minnehaha Falls Park in MINNEAPOLIS, on Saturday, August 14. This free musical concert features classic, native, fusion, world, and funk by established artists, novice, and up-and-coming jazz musicians.In addition, visitors will enjoy open jam sessions, children's activities, face painting, food and beverage sales, and more. For further information, dial 612-827-2422, or visit www.FreedomJazzFestival.org
Jackpot Junction Casino Hotel in the city of MORTON will present Leann Rimes on Friday, August 13, and Hotel California -A Salute To The Eagles, September 24. For rates and times, dial 1-800-WIN-CASH, or for more on the Morton and Redwood Falls vicinity, dial 1-800-657-5757.
The city of PIPESTONE will present the Song Of Hiawatha Pageant, each Friday through Sunday, through August 8. This annual pageant, based on Longfellow's poem, is held in a large outdoor amphitheater filled with elaborate lighting and costumes, as well as a cast of over 200. For more information, and for rates and times, dial 1-800-430-4126.
The Village of RANIER, located near the city of International Falls, will host the Ranier Summer Festival, Friday and Saturday, August 13 and 14, on the shores of Rainy Lake. Highlights include a community orchestra concert, Woody's Fairly Reliable Sailing Regatta, music on the boardwalk, art exhibits and a parade. To learn more, dial 1-800-325-5766.
Farmfest will be held at the Gilfillan Estate in REDWOOD FALLS, Tuesday through Thursday, August 3-5. Highlights include large outdoor exhibits, indoor exhibits, seed plots, field demonstrations, toy equipment, craft booths, educational seminars, legislative forums, antique tractor demonstrations, family programs and entertainment on over 50 areas of farmland. To learn more, dial 1-800-827-8007, or visit their web site at www.farmfest.com
The annual Minnesota Bluegrass and Old-Time Music Festival will be held at El Rancho Manana Resort in the city of RICHMOND, Thursday, August 12 through Sunday, August 15, with some of the hottest acts in bluegrass and old-time stringband music. In addition, there will be workshops, instrument showcases, dances, demonstrations, kid's activities, displays, great food, and plenty of campground jam sessions. For rates and times, dial 1-800-635-3037.
The Olmsted County Fairgrounds in the city of ROCHESTER will be the site of the Olmsted County Fair through Sunday, August 8. Featured will be carnival rides and games, live music, food vendors, beer gardens, animal barns, exhibits, demonstrations, and more. And on Saturday, August 7, Rochester Aviation History Day will be held at the Rochester International Airport, with an aviation history-oriented program, as well as 100 aircraft, pictorial displays and more. For further information, dial 1-800-634-8277.
The Renaissance Festival Grounds, located south of SHAKOPEE off Hwy 169, will be the site of the 2004 Minnesota Renaissance Festival each Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 14-Sept. 26, including Labor Day and Festival Friday, September 24. Featured will be over 275 craft shops by talented artisans, lively entertainment, unusual foods, unique crafts and family fun. Each weekend has a different theme, beginning with the Highland Fling, August 14and 15, featuring heavy games, traditional highland dancing, the history of the Scottish Clans, shepherding demonstrations, and Scottish dog exhibits. Other highlights include the Feast of Fantasy, Royal High Tea, the Renaissance Smoker, Royal Wine Tasting, and demonstrations of period arts such as blacksmithing, brass rubbings, calligraphy, glassblowing and glass etching, glass lampwork, metal casting, metal coin minting, papermaking, printing, bookbinding, perfume-making, pottery, and woodworking. For more information, dial 1-800-966-8215 or visit www.renaissancefest.com
A Classic Car Show and Crazy Days Sale will be offered by the city of WARROAD, Friday and Saturday, August 6 and 7, with classic and collector cars on display at the beach on Lake of the Woods. Featured will be a Show N' Shine, Cruise to the Lake, music and social. For more information, dial 1-800-328-4455. And to the north, the Northwest Angle and Islands area will be the site of the annual Blueberry Festival and Chili Cook-Off, August 6-8. Highlights include a Chili Cook-Off with 15 contestants competing for the title of Chili Cook-Off Champion, as well as a Brat Fest, Blueberry Dessert Contest, Talent Show, Art Fair, Blueberry Spitting Contest, and much more. For further information, please dial toll-free 1-866-692-6453.
And just some of the upcoming concerts and performances in the TWIN CITIES vicinity will include: Phantom Of The Opera at the Historic Orpheum Theatre in Minneapolis, through August 8; Chicago and Earth, Wind and Fire at the Target Center in Minneapolis, August 4; Marshall Field's Glamorama with Patti Labelle, Renee Olstead and Jerry Hall at the Historic State Theatre in Minneapolis, August 6; Jerry Jeff Walker at the Fitzgerald Theater in St. Paul, August 7; Weird Al Yankovic at the Historic State Theatre, August 12; Heart at the Historic State Theatre, August 14; Metallica at the Xcel Energy Center in St. Paul, August 16; Aretha Franklin at Mystic Lake Celebrity Palace in Prior Lake, August 17; Bond at the Pantages Theatre in Minneapolis, August 18; The Battle Of The Hockey Gladiators at the Target Center, August 20; Deep Purple with Joe Satriani and Thin Lizzy at the Xcel Energy Center, August 24; Chicks With Attitude with Liz Phair at the Historic Orpheum Theatre in Minneapolis, August 25; Gloria Estefan at the Target Center, August 27; Sarah Mclachlan at the Xcel Energy Center, September 4; Yes and Dream Theater at the Target Center, September 7; Hall and Oates with Michael Mcdonald and The Average White Band at the Excel Energy Center, September 8; Usher at the Target Center, September 9; Fourplay at the Fitzgerald Theater, September 11; Norah Jones at the Xcel Energy Center, September 11; The Campbells' International Figure Skating Classic at the Xcel Energy Center, October 1; The T.J. Maxx 2004 Tour Of Gymnastics Champions at the Xcel Energy Center, October 10; Wynonna at the O'Shaughnessy Auditorium in St. Paul, October 15; Jerry Seinfeld at the Northrop Auditorium in Minneapolis, October 16; Wayne Brady at Mystic Lake Celebrity Palace, October 26; David Sedaris at the Fitzgerald Theater in St. Paul, November 3; The Pixies at the Roy Wilkins Auditorium in St. Paul, November 10 and 11; Riverdance at the Historic Orpheum Theatre in Minneapolis, November 27. For further information on any of these performances, please contact Ticketmaster at 651-989-5151.
