Troy Night Out!

We are two days away from what I'm thinking will be a huge Troy Night Out.

For those that have been in the dark for the past eight or so months, Troy Night Out is a monthly event that takes place on the final Friday of each month. It showcases all of the wonderful things happening in downtown Troy, and more importantly, sets a great tone for the future. It's that whole 24-7 City I'm fond of talking about.

All of the credit in the world goes to the organizers of the event- Elizabeth Young, Karen Schlesinger, Michael Fiske, a host of volunteers and store owners willing to try new things, and a special nod to local business ID29, which has gone above and beyond the call of duty in helping get this idea off the ground.

This month's event will likely be the last where we are guaranteed somewhat warm weather, and downtown is ready to capitalize.

If you are heading down for the event, there is nearly too much to talk about. Be sure to pick up an event map at one of the many participating restaurants, businesses, boutiques, galleries, and any other building that happens to have an event in it.

My must see event for the evening will take place on State Street between Third and Fourth Streets, right near Barker Park, which as you know is undergoing a major reconstruction.

Beginning at 6 p.m., The Static Port will be taking the stage. The Static Port is a local quartet which describes its music as "groove-oriented," that mixes together funk, jazz and progressive rock. The organizers and the City are working together to try and bring more attention to the Third and Fourth Street sections of downtown during the Troy Night Out, to help improve traffic flow to this area.

This will be the second show we have held on State Street, and the plan is to try and do one each month next year once the weather warms up. We have certainly made great strides with new events in Troy, and we believe a scheduled concert series on State Street will really add another dimension to the Troy Night Out.

But wait, there's more. I don't want to spoil all of the fun, just be sure to be downtown near State Street, and you will see some unique entertainment involving fire. Use your imagination. Or if you don't want to wait, check out www.troynightout.org (Here's a hint, check out number 42 under event listings).

We will also have another grand opening Friday, as Truly Rhe makes her initial appearance in Troy on Second Street. We will have a ribbon cutting Friday morning, and I'll be sure to have pictures posted.

This month, I assure you, there will literally be something to do for everyone. Come on out and see for yourself all that Downtown Troy has to offer.


Harry