I find I'm pinching myself a lot these days. I still feel so very lucky to be a part of the Cities97 family. I call it a family because that's what we all are. Whether ya work here in the building or ya listen, it's just a great big community of people who love music. I've never had that at a radio station before. And because of that love of music we get to execute really cool promotions like Free Music For A Year. It's all so rewarding. And last Wed (1.30.13) at Union's Rooftop was no exception. Met a lot of fantastic people. It was just a great hang all because of a common bond......a love of music.

Meiko and Casey Abrams were beyond gracious. They were just hanging the entire night. Mingling with people and just chillin. Of course, they rocked some acousticality too. (Like my new word? Acousticality?)

Our 2012 Free Music winner, Libby Lempke, was on hand to pass the "torch" so to speak, actually it was more like a passing of a scepter. So great to meet her. She and our 2013 winner, Michelle Hagen, had some good talks. Libby passed along some fine advice I'm sure. Michelle seems to be very much up to the task as she's vowed to "make it every show in 2013". I seriously doubt she'll accomplish that, but ya gotta love the enthusiasm. 

All in all, it was an incredible night, thanks to everyone who came out, Meiko, Casey and the fine folks at Union's Rooftop. Here are some pics and rogue video that was shot, including a priceless bar side, after hours, rendition of "Get Out" by Casey Abrams. 

Fragment of Meiko's performance submitted by Adam D.

Every Oake On The Water started with a special beverage.....I felt with Oake now moving on to the wee hours of the morn.....it wouldn't feel right to carry on HIS tradition, so we started a new one and we're keeping it classy......

This is how Casey Abrams keeps it classy.....

Meiko doesn't have to do anything to keep things classy.....she just is......

Speaking of classy....Keri Noble came up with the brilliant plan of adding a crown and septer to the showering of gifts the FMY winner received.....I'd say Michelle rocks them elegantly......

And, finally.......Me, Beard Brother Casey Abrams, FMY 2012 winner Libby Lempke, brand new FMY 2013 winner Michelle Hagen, Meiko & Sir Brian Oake.