To the editor:
Forwarded in a Motion of Comity, for publication on Independence Day 2008, as we "wax prophetic" with the Buck Moon (new on July 3, full on July 18).
Under that waxing Buck Moon, the Philadelphia-based band Among Criminals will regale gatherers at the annual "Independence Day Jam" in Bucks County, Pa., then make way to the waterside community of Newburyport (a "home port" during their comings and goings in New England). Inspiring movement toward "peaceful change," the reggae-Latin rock band urges peace and justice in the local, national and global community. Their appeal resonates much more than "just words" (to music).
With them in spirit, we eagerly await the "Happy History" to come this way next week. Until such time, while many mark another Independence Day with familiar pastimes, family barbecues and fireworks at nightfall, we hope you will take a moment to reflect upon this milestone in "cerebration," inspired by a birthday toast that can be found at the LordTimothyDexter.com Web site.
Gesturing to celebrants on Independence Day 1793, Dexter proclaimed that on "this day the 18th year of our glorious independence commences — Justice, order, commerce, agriculture, the sciences and tranquility reign triumphant in these United and happy States — America is the asylum for the afflicted, persecuted sons & daughters of Europe. Our progress toward the glorious point of perfection is unparalleled in the annals of mankind ... ."
Two hundred fifteen years later, that refined toast (obviously drafted by speechwriter) — combined with the organic fiber of Lord Timothy Dexter's unconventional digest "Pickle for the Knowing Ones" — whets the appetite for much more than the general fodder of political persuasions. In these historic times, such "food for thought" can better energize the collective body politic to form a more perfect union, in harmony with the global community.
In the quest to find that harmony, we encourage you to indulge your unalienable right to the "pursuit of Happiness" by joining Among Criminals on any and every occasion you find yourself free. Witnessing their passion for both their music and message is guaranteed to be rewarding experience — beyond the pure entertainment value alone.
On this leg of their tour, you can catch Among Criminals locally at the Grog on Thursday, July 10; at the Chit Chat Lounge upriver in Haverhill on Friday, July 11; and at Captain Carlo's in Gloucester on Saturday, July 12 (each 21+, "no cover" venues). And on the afternoon of Sunday, July 13, gather among friends, family and community and Among Criminals in concert and conversation. Held at Market Landing Park (once the community shipyard where vessels could be crafted for three-pence per ton) the Waterside "Jam and Gam" will launch the next leg of the journey.
Learn more about the band and their "music with a message" at their amongcriminals.com Web site and myspace.com/amongcriminals Web page. And be sure to SMILE (Seek More Information/insight Logged/linked Electronically) at Comity.org — where the conversation continues at the "Virtual Wolfe Tavern."
KEN AND DOMINIQUE DEAR
Newburyport
