Big Turn Music Festival - 2020
The 3rd annual Big Turn Music Festival (BTMF) took place this past week, and it was fantastic! We introduced a new feature this year with an autograph/graffiti picnic table, encouraging visitors to leave their mark. We also hosted eight bands over two evenings, and it was an absolute blast.
Big Turn Music Fest - 2019
Big Turn Music Festival (BTMF) had their second season this month and we participated again with eight bands over two nights. It was every bit as fun and successful as the first year with the added element of a blizzard.
Big Turn Music Fest - 2018
We had the pleasure of participating in the inaugural Big Turn Music Festival (BTMF) in downtown Red Wing on February 16-17, 2018. This festival spans multiple venues, featuring musicians or bands performing short sets in various locations, from retail storefronts to churches. It brought a lively and festive atmosphere to what are typically some of the coldest and quietest days of the year.
As one of the smaller venues, with a capacity of 39, we hosted eight groups over two nights. We reached full capacity several times, and the music was truly exceptional. We look forward to doing this again next year.
Blood chit
A Piece of History: The Blood Chit
This is one of those pieces that come through the shop that really makes you pause and reflect.
"I am a citizen of the United States of America. I do not speak your language. Misfortune forces me to seek your assistance in obtaining food, shelter, and protection. Please take me to someone who will provide for my safety and see that I am returned to my people. My government will reward you.”
This is the first paragraph written in English, and it is repeated in 13 languages. It is called a blood chit, and it is from the Vietnam War (1968).
A blood chit is a prepared message carried by military air crews and other service members deemed to be at what the military calls “high risk of isolation." It is written in local languages that a lost service member can present to most anyone who might help.
It is printed on silk for durability and was distributed immediately before a dangerous mission.
Blood chits originated in England 200 years ago and were introduced to the US military during WWII. They have been used during the Korean conflict, the Vietnam War, and through both Middle East conflicts.
2010 Flyway Film Festival
Flyway Film Festival: A Red Carpet Sponsorship
Once again, we are delighted to be a red carpet sponsor of the Flyway Film Festival. Now in its third year, this event is really beginning to gain traction. The quality of the movies this year is very impressive.
The Festival kicks off on Thursday, October 21, with a gala event where sponsors, directors, actors, and organizers get together to nibble on snacks, drink some wine, and engage in creative discussions. The evening will conclude with an awards ceremony.
The films start on Friday, October 22, with the screening of "Baraboo," an intriguing film about life and the hands we are dealt. Over the course of the weekend, 21 films will be screened.
For more details, visit FlywayFilmFestival.org. See you in Stockholm in two weeks!
Flyway Film Festival countdown
2nd Annual Flyway Film Festival
This weekend is the much-anticipated 2nd annual Flyway Film Festival. The event kicks off on Thursday night with a meet-and-greet reception, and the opening night of movies begins on Friday night with "Storm," followed by "Ink." In many cases, both actors and the directors of the films will be at the festival to answer questions. Over the course of Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, more than 30 independent films will be shown.
Saturday will be a bit different, featuring a one-day, genre-specific event of classic and cutting-edge independent zombie films. And everybody loves a good movie about the undead :)
We are proud to be a red carpet sponsor of this ambitious art endeavor and to have provided the large format graphics to promote this event.
Details are available at FlywayFilmFestival.org. See you in Stockholm this weekend!