July 3-5, Steve and I play the Black Butte River Ranch July Fourth community party with the Cavepainters: Rick, Ed, Matt, and Barry –wild. 
Sunday Steve and I head out into the Mendocino National Forest where we see a baby bear on the road at the headwaters of the Eel River. 
Lake Pilsbury, we camp on the gravel banks, stuck in 3rd gear all the way home (7/7).
On our return, an email from Rick, he has decided to “quit” the band, we can have the name and play his songs, he is keeping the venue.
Later, Ed agrees, he is “out”. Actually “in”, as they are the band.
One final show, 7/16
July 23 Steve and I leave for Portland, to stay at Jo’s and attend Brewfest. We stop in to visit my Aunt Honey and Uncle Zeke.
On the return trip, we meet Jean and Jerry at Usal Creek, site 23, $15.
Home 7/30, there are 2 calls from the Starry Plough asking Steve if he would like Friday or Saturdays, your pick. We take Friday because we are booked Saturday at Fondue Fred- then next weekend, we switch to Saturday.
As usual, Christmas in Palmdale, and back to the Plough 12/26.
Travels With Stevie 