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18 Dec 04 - 01:05 PM (#1360485) Subject: Dani's place in NC closing From: Dani 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 |
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18 Dec 04 - 01:17 PM (#1360498) Subject: RE: Dani's place in NC closing From: karen k Dani, I'm so sorry. I'm sorry about the closing and I'm sorry I never got a chance to visit. I heard such wonderful things about it from those fortunate enough to have been there. I wish you well with whatever you do. I know it will be tough but I know that you know you are doing the right thing. I'm sure the restaurant and the music you had there will be missed by all. I wish you and your family a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. love, my friend, karen |
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18 Dec 04 - 02:47 PM (#1360561) Subject: RE: Dani's place in NC closing From: SINSULL Dani, I am sorry the restaurant is closing but glad you tried to make it work. Better that than always wondering if... Enjoy the time with your family. Sing when you feel down. And smile -you are a beautiful lady. Mary |
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18 Dec 04 - 02:52 PM (#1360563) Subject: RE: Dani's place in NC closing From: Sorcha Oh, Dani, I'm so sorry.......keep your chin up girl. |
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18 Dec 04 - 03:00 PM (#1360570) Subject: RE: Dani's place in NC closing From: Joe Offer I'm sorry it's closing, Dani. It sounded like such a wonderful place. I'm glad you were able to have Elizabeth LaPrelle perform there. Have a good Christmas, nonetheless. -Joe Offer- |
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18 Dec 04 - 03:08 PM (#1360578) Subject: RE: Dani's place in NC closing From: kendall |I'm one of the blessed who got to eat there. It was a great place and I'm sad to see it go.((((((((((((((Dani))))))))))))))))) |
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18 Dec 04 - 03:33 PM (#1360600) Subject: RE: Dani's place in NC closing From: catspaw49 I can only add my best wishes for the future as well Dani........I had great hope for you too and I'm sad to see this happen but maybe there's a reason for it. Sorry.....Doncha' hate it when people say that? Anyway, you gave it a try and most folks in this world never do.....Good onya' Dani and a few big Spaw hugs as well! Spaw |
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18 Dec 04 - 03:56 PM (#1360621) Subject: RE: Dani's place in NC closing From: Hollowfox I can only add some more sympathy. And, of course, a big ol' !@#$-reduction candle to help smooth out the rough spots. |
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18 Dec 04 - 03:57 PM (#1360625) Subject: RE: Dani's place in NC closing From: Amos Aww, Dani, I weanted to come over for coffee, but it was always too far from California. I yam sorry it is closing. (((D))) A |
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18 Dec 04 - 04:27 PM (#1360653) Subject: RE: Dani's place in NC closing From: Big Mick I have been looking so forward to the day that I got to come and play this restaraunt. This is disappointing, but now it will just have to be a house concert with Dani and Janie. But I sure loved getting those emails and having my mouth water over the menu. I envisioned as being like a favorite restaraunt of mine in Traverse City, Michigan. This was an old drug store with a soda fountain and all, made their own pasta, great soups, and a menu to die for. Damn, Dani. I sure wish I had made it down last year. I am not worried about you. Your great spirit will kick in, and soon the lemonade will be flowing. I know your heart and soul were in the place, but H&S goes with you. Soon the James will be a fond memory and you will be sailing a downhill run in another venture. Big hug for you waiting at The Getaway next year. Much love, my dear friend. Mick |
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18 Dec 04 - 04:52 PM (#1360674) Subject: RE: Dani's place in NC closing From: CapriUni well, dammit! But I do know (through the experiences of good friends) that running a restaurant is one of the hardest and most stressful businesses of them all. The fact that you could make it last for over a year is actually quite an accomplishment. And one you can be rightfully proud of. And although you won't be doing it commercially, any longer (or at least, for the foreseeable future), you can rest assured that good food, good music, and -- most important -- good friends will always be in your life. Cheers, and bright blessings, Ann |
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18 Dec 04 - 05:29 PM (#1360706) Subject: RE: Dani's place in NC closing From: 8_Pints Hi Dani, We were so sorry to hear that your restaurant is closing - we loved our visit and feel priviledged to have had the chance to share it's unique atmosphere and food. Perhaps your freedom will mean that you can all come and stay with us folks over the pond and we can repay some of your hospitality!! Thinking of you, love to all, Sue and Bob vG xxxxx |
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18 Dec 04 - 06:04 PM (#1360740) Subject: RE: Dani's place in NC closing From: KT Dani, you said, "I will look back on it when it's all over and think that more good than bad came of the experience." Wise woman. You already know that. And knowing THAT will get you through these muddy waters. Think on this. You will never know how many people have joy-filled hearts when they recall fond memories of their time at The James Pharmacy Restaurant. Tons, I bet. Wish I could say I'd been there. And now you get to ask the question, "What's next?" An adventure lies ahead, for sure. Keep us posted. I'll be eager to hear what it is. Lots of love to you as you move through this.... KT |
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18 Dec 04 - 06:37 PM (#1360766) Subject: RE: Dani's place in NC closing From: Allan C. First of all I want to publicly thank you for the hospitality you tendered to me during each of my visits to the James Pharmacy Restaurant. Everything under that roof seemed always to be filled with cheerfulness and pleasantness. Like Kendall Morse, Elizabeth Patrell and Judy Cook, I truly enjoyed performing there. I also appreciated the singarounds that you and/or Janie have hosted there. How special those moments were! Please give my best wishes to the staff there. They were always among the best I've ever seen. I feel sure that much of their attitude was reflective of your own. You drew out the best in all of them, Dani. I can only imagine what the next few days will be like for you as you prepare for the closing while at the same time attempt to be "up" for the holidays. I wish you well, Dani. I saw what pride you took in all you did at the restaurant. You had fun with it; you prepared some of the most delicious and far-from-mundane dishes that anyone could ever enjoy; and you created the kind of place everyone enjoyed patronizing. Yes, I wish it had been more profitable; but in the long run it is what you do in life of which you can be proudest that makes the difference. |
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19 Dec 04 - 12:01 AM (#1360910) Subject: RE: Dani's place in NC closing From: GUEST,Guest Well dang, so sorry to hear it! We had a great time singing there last month, truly a milestone for us. I'm sure we'll be seeing you though, and maybe get to sing with you too! Hope your Christmas is very merry, and we'll definitely keep in touch! Take care, The LaPrelle Family |
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19 Dec 04 - 01:01 AM (#1360930) Subject: RE: Dani's place in NC closing From: Nancy King Dani, so sorry things haven't worked out for the restaurant -- for one thing, I was hoping to get a chance to visit there myself! Anyhow, from all I've heard, it was a dynamite place! Too bad that's not enough to ensure success in the business sense. But you're such a swell person that I know you'll do well at whatever comes next for you. Much good luck in whatever endeavor you choose! Meanwhile, have a good Christmas, and may the new year bring you joy! Love, Nancy |
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19 Dec 04 - 04:15 AM (#1360968) Subject: RE: Dani's place in NC closing From: jacqui.c Dani - so sorry to hear this and that I didn't get a chance to visit. All the best for whatever you decide to do in the future. New Year, new life would seem to be appropriate here. |
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19 Dec 04 - 06:16 AM (#1361009) Subject: RE: Dani's place in NC closing From: Micca Just for you Dani, may you succeed with everything you do James Pharmacy Restaurant I went down to the James Pharmacy To hear some singers there There was food on a long white table So hot, delicious and fair I went to talk to Dani She said "I'm feeling low We're going to give up this restaurant And that's a terrible blow" I went in the Mudcat forum To find some comfort there There was noise and chat as usual And the usual crowd were there There was Joe, and kendall and Sinsull Catspaw Big Mick and KT Karen K, Allan C and Hollowfox Amos, sorcha and CapriUni Let it go, let it go, god bless it It will close before fore the spring You may search the whole Carolinas You wont find a better place to sing We'll close with no looking backwards We will sadly walk away We loved everything we done here Now its time to call it a day Get six stalwart Catters to carry me Away from this trouble and strife I've grafted and sweated to make this work Now its time to get on with my life Now that's the end of my story Let's have another round of booze And if anyone should ask you just tell them I've got the James Pharmacy restaurant blues Micca |
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19 Dec 04 - 06:30 AM (#1361016) Subject: RE: Dani's place in NC closing From: Morticia I'm so sorry, Dani, I know what the place meant to you but so few of us get to realise our dreams, even for a short while, at least you had that and you know you gave it your best shot...that's all that really matters when it comes down to it, you did your best. Much love Terri xxxxxxxx |
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20 Dec 04 - 10:53 AM (#1361550) Subject: RE: Dani's place in NC closing From: Dani Lordy, Micca! What a gift! Thank you. And thanks all for the kind words. It helps. And I really am thankful for the music that's found at least a temporary home here. We've had the honor of hosting some of the world's finest musicians, and some of the most fun, fabulous sessions. After it's all over, I'll have lots of musical memories ringing in my ears. And, hell, I can cook anywhere. If it's at home, at least I can sit down with a guest for a change! Dani |
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20 Dec 04 - 11:01 AM (#1361554) Subject: RE: Dani's place in NC closing From: Fortunato Catters, I just spoke to Dani this morning. She sounded pretty upbeat. It was a great place, good food, good beer and a great staff. Susette and I truly enjoyed playing there, and we'll travel to Hillborough/Durham again and see Miss Dani, I hope, I'll have to find out if she has James Pharmacy T-Shirts! Dani, I hope to see you during the holidays, and thanks again for our wonderful visit with you. all the best, Chance |
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20 Dec 04 - 03:14 PM (#1361707) Subject: RE: Dani's place in NC closing From: kendall Micca, if anyone who has been there can read that without a lump in his/her throat, he/she is not human! |
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20 Dec 04 - 03:20 PM (#1361714) Subject: RE: Dani's place in NC closing From: jeffp Well, phooey! At least you gave it a good run. And I'm certain that you'll take the lessons learned and use them for success in your next endeavor, whatever that may be. And remember, this was not a failure, it just ran its course. You've got what it takes. jeffp |
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20 Dec 04 - 03:40 PM (#1361733) Subject: RE: Dani's place in NC closing From: Janie The James Pharmacy Restaurant will be sadly missed by the Hillsborough community. It was not only a place for great eats and great entertainment, it was a community hub. Dani is as valued as a first class citizen of our town as she is as a first class citizen of Mudcat. She recently received the 1st annual "Spirit of Hillsborough" award for all the ways she has supported our community, both personally and as a business woman. I am very, very sad to see the restaurant close. But I'll also be very glad to see that she is no longer working 24-7. She gives so freely and fully of herself, it is time she has an opportunity to recharge those batteries. (OK, Dani, NOW can you come out and play? The dishes are all done!) *grin* Janie |
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20 Dec 04 - 04:12 PM (#1361762) Subject: RE: Dani's place in NC closing From: Ferrara Dani, this is so sad, and I know it must be such a disappointment. We also have a friend who was in -- and left -- the restaurant business, and he said it's one of the hardest things in the world to keep going. You did a fabulous job but as you say -- it's far too much for one person. Wish we could have visited you there, but who knows maybe we'll visit you anyway one of these days. Micca, your song is wonderful. All the best, Rita |
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20 Dec 04 - 05:07 PM (#1361822) Subject: RE: Dani's place in NC closing From: katlaughing So sorry to hear of this, Dani. I've heard such wonderful reports from Micca, Allan and others. I am glad you've had the sense to let go, though, before it totally ran you down. As Art Thieme says "Onward and upward" to the next great adventure. Thansk for being there for the music and your community. I am glad to hear you received recognition for that, too! All the best, kat |
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20 Dec 04 - 05:11 PM (#1361827) Subject: RE: Dani's place in NC closing From: karen k I've never been named in a song before! That is so great. Thanks Micca. It's a gem. Hang in there Dani. I can't wait to see what you do next. Be proud, my friend, be proud. love, karen |
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20 Dec 04 - 05:50 PM (#1361855) Subject: RE: Dani's place in NC closing From: catspaw49 Really nice Micca, really nice. Dani, I think I'd print Micca's song out and tape a copy in the door or window when you close. Spaw |
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20 Dec 04 - 10:38 PM (#1362027) Subject: RE: Dani's place in NC closing From: Susan A-R Dani, I'm so sorry to hear about the restaurant, although when I was washing the last dish tonight, I must admit to wishing that I was doing anything else, it's not the easiest way to make a living, but it sure has it's moments (I'm not always sure why they've kept me in the business for 7 years, but I guess most of us are a bit crazy to begin with) Sounds like you ran a terriffic place, made a good run of it and had lots of great music there to boot. And now on to something else that doesn't require the 60 to 70 hour week, bleached hands, burns, cuts and massive anxiety attacks. Oh man, how bitter sweet. I'll be thinking of you, and will consult when it's time to put Susan's Kitchen to bed in some future year. Micca, how do you DO That?? Susan |
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21 Dec 04 - 09:13 AM (#1362414) Subject: RE: Dani's place in NC closing From: Roger the Skiffler Great parody, Micca. Sorry to hear this Dani, perhaps you could do meals for folks in their homes? That way you can do as much or as little as you want and save on overheads? RtS |
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21 Dec 04 - 09:26 AM (#1362425) Subject: RE: Dani's place in NC closing From: JedMarum I'd like to offer my condolences too, Dani and best wishes for picking up the pieces and moving on. I really enjoyed my visit to your place and looked forward to coming back one day. I am sorry to hear you'll be gone. May your next venture be all the good the last one was - and more. |
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21 Dec 04 - 12:04 PM (#1362520) Subject: RE: Dani's place in NC closing From: Cruiser Good lyrics Micca. The melody could be the same as the traditional song 'St. James Infirmary Blues', could it not? Too bad fellow mudcatters with culinary/restauranteurial skills could not go together to revive the place. I think I could handle boiling the water (with some direction). Good Luck Dani. |
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21 Dec 04 - 10:45 PM (#1362733) Subject: RE: Dani's place in NC closing From: GUEST,Judy Cook Dear Dani, Lots of love and good wishes from Judy & Dennis. We feel lucky to know you and have very happy memories of our visit with you and singing at the James Pharmacy Restaurant. |
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21 Dec 04 - 11:02 PM (#1362738) Subject: RE: Dani's place in NC closing From: Tinker Dani, as if the season didn't bring it's own round of joys and strife putting to rest a dream has to be amonst the hardest things. Sending out a few hugs, I had been hoping to drag the family on down that way, but time just seemed to get away... Lovin' ya Kathy |
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22 Dec 04 - 12:23 AM (#1362784) Subject: RE: Dani's place in NC closing From: GUEST,Art Thieme Dani---- So sorry to hear of this. I never got to your good restaurant, but it has been my priviledge to be the closing act for at least half a dozen wondrous places that still live on in the memories of all who were lucky enough to be involved. Go through all the anger and mourning stages, and emerge better than ever. Onward and... Art |