Well, barring a miracle (not un-heard-of this time of year), this is it for The James Pharmacy Restaurant. After losing my partner last year, I tried to make a go of it myself. By summer it was clear that it was too much for one person who wants to keep a family around, too. We tried for a long time to sell the place, and thought we were all set, but our 'buyers' let us down at the last minute. It's a long story, with a short, bad ending. We're making plans to close for good at Christmas, and frankly, it sucks - especially laying people off. Our staff have been so devoted, and kind, and I've learned so much from them.

However....

We are very, very grateful to all the people who have come to play music here over the last few years, especially you wonderful Mudcatters, and to the friends who have been so supportive, even when they thought we were crazy. I have few regrets. We tried our best, and on balance (except for financially) I will look back on it when it's all over and think that more good than bad came of the experience.

It's going to be a tough time in the short term, finagling things to minimize losses, but soon this WON'T suck up my entire life, and I can get back to some normal relationships, paid employment, and perhaps to making music myself for a change!

Dani