Steal Your Funk with Jen Durkin Delivers a 5-Star Performance at Park City Music Hall

🎶 An Unforgettable Night of Funk and Soul in Bridgeport, CT 🎶

Music lovers were treated to an electrifying evening at Park City Music Hall on December 12, 2024, as Steal Your Funk, featuring the incomparable Jen Durkin, took the stage for their highly anticipated Annual Holiday Show. With a lineup packed full of classic hits, funky grooves, and holiday cheer, this event has set the gold standard for live performances in Bridgeport.

Meet the Band Members: The Talent Behind Steal Your Funk

Steal Your Funk is more than just a band; it's a collective of incredibly talented musicians who bring their unique styles, vast experience, and passion for music to the stage. Here's a closer look at the incredible lineup and the other projects they’re involved in:

Jen Durkin (Vocals)

Known as the “Queen of Funk,” Jen Durkin’s powerhouse vocals have captivated audiences for decades. Outside of Steal Your Funk, Jen has an extensive history in the music scene, including her work with Deep Banana Blackout, a legendary funk-fusion band, and her solo projects, which showcase her versatility across genres. Jen’s ability to connect with the audience and deliver high-energy performances is unmatched.

Darian Cunning (Guitar)

A master of soulful, bluesy guitar riffs, Darian Cunning has been a key player in Connecticut’s music scene. When he’s not bringing the funk to Steal Your Funk, Darian leads his own project, the Darian Cunning Band, blending elements of jazz, funk, and rock into an eclectic and memorable sound.

Rob Glassman (Percussion)

Rob Glassman is a veteran percussionist and an essential part of Steal Your Funk’s rhythmic backbone. A longtime contributor to the jam band scene, Rob is also known for leading the Rob Glassman Band, which focuses on Grateful Dead-inspired jams and improvisational rock performances.

Marty Moroney Jr. (Bass)

Holding down the groove on bass, Marty Moroney Jr. is an exceptional musician with a deep love for funk and jam music. In addition to his work with Steal Your Funk, Marty is involved in several side projects that highlight his ability to seamlessly transition between genres, including jazz, rock, and blues.

Jordan Giangreco (Keys)

Jordan Giangreco’s keyboard skills bring depth and a distinct flavor to Steal Your Funk’s sound. As a member of Legion of Jerry, Jordan pays homage to the legacy of Jerry Garcia while continuing to expand his reach in funk, soul, and jam band circles. His unique ability to mix traditional and experimental keyboard styles elevates every performance.

Joe Scialla (Drums)

Joe Scialla’s precision and dynamic drumming are at the heart of Steal Your Funk’s infectious rhythm. Outside the band, Joe keeps busy working with a variety of projects, including session work and collaborations with local and regional artists in the funk, jazz, and jam band scenes.

Each member of Steal Your Funk brings a wealth of talent and experience, making their live performances a showcase of musical excellence. Whether it's their work with other bands or their dedication to the craft, this lineup represents the very best of the funk, soul, and jam music communities.

Let me know if you'd like to highlight additional details about the members or their projects! 🎶✨

A 5-Star Review

The evening was a seamless fusion of nostalgia, festive spirit, and raw musical talent. Every element of the show, from the setlist to the stage presence, received rave reviews from attendees, who didn’t hesitate to leave some comments on BISTRO BUDDY’s event page (View Event Details).

Fans described the evening as:
⭐ "A soulful journey through funk, rock, and holiday magic."
⭐ "Jen Durkin’s vocals were absolutely mesmerizing."
⭐ "An experience I’ll never forget—Park City Music Hall was on fire!"
⭐ "Straight-up dance party vibes from start to finish."
⭐ "If George Clinton had been in the crowd, even he would’ve gotten up to dance!"
⭐ "The funk grooves were so infectious, I couldn’t stop moving all night."
⭐ "P-Funk meets Grateful Dead—what more could you ask for?"

The Performance Highlights

Unforgettable Medleys and Covers

Steal Your Funk didn’t just play music—they transformed it. The setlist included:

• "Shakedown Street > Tear the Roof Off > We Want the Funk": A medley that had the audience grooving non-stop and calling for more.
• "Thank You (Falettinme Be Mice Elf Agin)": A crowd favorite, blending soul and energy in a way that would make Sly Stone proud.
• "Hey Pocky A-Way": Pure New Orleans funk that turned the venue into a second line parade.
• "Second That Emotion": A soulful and heartfelt rendition that brought couples to the dance floor.
• "They Love Each Other" (Grateful Dead Cover): A beautiful take on a classic that resonated deeply with Deadheads.
• "Tell Me Something Good" (Rufus Cover): Jen Durkin’s powerhouse vocals made this a show-stopping moment.
• "This Christmas": A festive and heartwarming performance perfect for the season.

Top Videos to Relive the Magic

The night was so impactful that fans can relive the experience through several videos now available:

• Steal Your Funk Performs "Shakedown Street > Tear the Roof Off > We Want the Funk"
• Steal Your Funk Covers "Tell Me Something Good"
• Steal Your Funk Performs "They Love Each Other"
• Steal Your Funk Covers "Thank You (Falettinme Be Mice Elf Agin)"
• Steal Your Funk Delivers "This Christmas"

And with more videos coming soon, the magic of this night will continue to spread!

Jen Durkin’s Star Power

Jen Durkin, often hailed as a vocal powerhouse, once again proved why she’s one of the most captivating performers in live music today. Her ability to command the stage, connect with the audience, and infuse each song with emotion made the show unforgettable.

Looking Ahead

Steal Your Funk continues to solidify its reputation as a must-see act, and fans are already eagerly anticipating next year’s Annual Holiday Show. Until then, you can follow their journey and updates on BISTRO BUDDY for more incredible performances and exclusive content.

What People Are Saying

🗣️ "The best live show I’ve seen all year!"
🗣️ "Jen Durkin’s voice gives me chills every time!"
🗣️ "Steal Your Funk brought the house down!"
🗣️ "I haven’t danced this hard in years—thank you for the grooves!"
🗣️ "The energy in the room felt like a P-Funk party mixed with Grateful Dead magic!"
🗣️ "Every song felt like a celebration. I didn’t want it to end!"

Get Involved

Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a newcomer to Steal Your Funk, there’s no better time to dive into their music. Subscribe to BISTRO BUDDY YouTube Channel for all the latest videos and performances.

🎶 Stay funky, stay soulful, and we’ll see you at the next show! 🎶

The FDA’s Potential Ban on Red Dye No. 3: A Food Industry Revolution

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is preparing to make a historic decision to ban Red Dye No. 3 in food products. This move has sparked widespread interest among consumers and industry leaders, with many questioning what the ban could mean for their favorite snacks and the food industry at large.

What is Red Dye No. 3?

Red Dye No. 3, or erythrosine, is a synthetic food coloring derived from petroleum. Approved by the FDA in 1969, it has been used extensively to provide vibrant cherry-red hues to foods like candies, baked goods, and beverages. However, health concerns surrounding the dye have led to calls for stricter FDA regulations on food color additives.

Health Risks of Red Dye No. 3

Concerns about the health risks of Red Dye No. 3 have been mounting. Studies have linked the dye to thyroid tumors in laboratory animals and behavioral issues in children, such as hyperactivity. The connection between Red Dye No. 3 and cancer risk has further fueled the debate, raising questions about why the dye is banned in cosmetics but allowed in food.

Top Impacts of the Potential Ban

If the FDA moves forward with banning Red Dye No. 3, the decision could lead to a cascade of changes across the food industry and consumer behavior. Here are the most significant ways this change could reshape the landscape:

• Improved Consumer Health: Eliminating Red Dye No. 3 from foods could reduce exposure to a synthetic additive linked to cancer, thyroid tumors, and hyperactivity in children, making the food supply safer for everyone.
• Shift to Natural Ingredients: Food manufacturers would likely replace Red Dye No. 3 with natural alternatives like beet juice and turmeric, catering to growing consumer demand for cleaner and healthier labels.
• Changes in Product Presentation: Natural alternatives may alter the appearance and taste of certain foods, prompting consumers to adjust expectations about the look and flavor of their favorite treats.
• Increased Food Safety Oversight: The ban could pave the way for stricter regulation of other synthetic food additives, aligning U.S. standards with those of countries that already enforce more stringent food safety policies.
• Economic Ripple Effects: Reformulating products could raise production costs, especially for smaller manufacturers, potentially leading to higher prices for consumers.
• Boost in Consumer Awareness: The controversy surrounding Red Dye No. 3 has heightened public awareness of artificial food additives, encouraging more informed dietary choices and advocacy for transparency.
• Innovations in Food Technology: The need for vibrant, natural coloring options could drive significant advancements in food science, resulting in safer and more visually appealing alternatives.
• Regional and Global Policy Alignment: A U.S. ban would bridge gaps between state-level actions (like California’s upcoming ban) and international regulations, creating a more uniform approach to food safety.
• Corporate Adaptation: Major brands would need to adapt by reformulating products and updating labeling, reflecting their commitment to consumer safety and staying competitive in a health-conscious market.
• Increased Trust in Food Products: Removing a controversial ingredient could build greater consumer trust in the food industry, fostering confidence in the safety and quality of available products.

Foods That Contain Red Dye No. 3

Red Dye No. 3, also known as erythrosine, is a synthetic food coloring used extensively in a wide variety of products, making it one of the most ubiquitous artificial additives in the American food supply. This petroleum-derived dye is commonly found in brightly colored snacks, candies, and confections such as jelly beans, fruit chews, gummy candies, and lollipops. It is a staple in many baked goods like cookies, cakes, and pastries, often used to create vibrant frosting and fillings that appeal to consumers.

In addition to sweet treats, Red Dye No. 3 is prevalent in beverages, including some sodas, fruit punches, and powdered drink mixes. Surprisingly, it also appears in certain children's medications, including liquid syrups and chewable tablets, as well as over-the-counter dietary supplements. Many consumers are unaware of its presence in these products, as the ingredient is often listed under technical terms that can be easily overlooked.

Health-conscious consumers are increasingly seeking to avoid foods with artificial dyes like Red Dye No. 3. The growing awareness of its potential health risks, including links to thyroid tumors and behavioral issues in children, has prompted a shift toward natural alternatives. As a result, many parents are opting for dye-free children’s medications and naturally colored products that use safe, plant-based alternatives such as beet juice, turmeric, and paprika extracts.

For those looking to eliminate Red Dye No. 3 from their diets, it’s important to read ingredient labels carefully and look for certifications such as “dye-free” or “all-natural.” Organic food products, which are free from synthetic dyes by regulation, provide a reliable option for consumers prioritizing safety and transparency. The shift toward naturally colored foods is becoming more evident, as major brands and manufacturers respond to consumer demand by reformulating products and removing synthetic dyes altogether.

Types Of Food Products that contain Red Dye No. 3

The FDA’s potential ban on Red Dye No. 3 could have significant financial implications for various industries, with the potential for considerable revenue loss. Companies across the food, beverage, and pharmaceutical sectors will face challenges in adapting to the regulatory change. Here's a breakdown of the key reasons behind the anticipated revenue loss:

1. Reformulation Costs

• Ingredient Substitution: Companies will need to invest in sourcing and testing natural alternatives to replace Red Dye No. 3.
• Production Line Adjustments: Manufacturing processes may require changes to accommodate new ingredients, leading to downtime and increased costs.
• Research and Development (R&D): Extensive R&D will be necessary to ensure new formulations meet quality, appearance, and taste standards.

2. Packaging and Labeling Changes

• Rebranding: Products featuring Red Dye No. 3 will need updated labels and marketing materials to reflect the reformulation.
• Waste Disposal: Existing packaging and inventory may need to be discarded, resulting in sunk costs.

3. Consumer Perception and Behavior

• Loss of Trust: Consumers might lose trust in brands previously using the additive, impacting customer loyalty.
• Taste and Appearance Concerns: Changes in product color or flavor could lead to decreased consumer satisfaction and demand.
• Shift to Competitors: Consumers may turn to competitors who already offer dye-free or natural alternatives.

4. Regulatory Penalties and Compliance Costs

• Non-Compliance Fines: Companies failing to comply with the ban in time may face legal and financial penalties.
• Training and Implementation: Employees will need training to adhere to new regulatory standards, incurring additional costs.

5. Market Saturation of Alternatives

• Increased Competition: As more companies reformulate to meet demand for dye-free products, market saturation could lower profit margins.
• Premium Pricing Resistance: Products reformulated with natural alternatives may face consumer resistance if priced higher.

6. Loss of International Marketability

• Export Restrictions: Countries with stricter food additive regulations may impose additional restrictions, affecting international sales.
• Reputation Damage: Association with Red Dye No. 3 could harm a brand’s global standing, reducing revenue potential abroad.

7. Immediate Inventory Write-Offs

• Unsellable Products: Stock containing Red Dye No. 3 might become unsellable overnight, leading to significant inventory losses.
• Supply Chain Disruptions: Suppliers and distributors could face delays and cancellations, further affecting revenue streams.

8. Potential for Legal Action

• Litigation Costs: Lawsuits from consumers or advocacy groups citing harm from products with Red Dye No. 3 could add financial strain.
• Settlements or Recalls: Companies might be required to issue recalls or settlements, leading to further revenue loss.

The Milford Oyster Festival, a Connecticut tradition for over 50 years, is embarking on a transformative journey in 2025. For decades, this beloved event has brought together locals and visitors to celebrate Milford’s rich oyster heritage. However, rising costs, logistical challenges, and changing dynamics in the events industry have prompted the festival committee to introduce a bold new format that focuses on its most popular feature: Oyster Eve.

Maple View Farm Brewery’s Final Call

Maple View Farm Brewery in Granby, Connecticut, has announced it will close on November 30, 2024, marking the end of a six-year journey. Located within the family-owned Maple View Farm, the brewery has been a beloved destination known for its “Farm Made” beer crafted in a cozy, rural setting. While the farm itself will continue to operate as it approaches its 75th anniversary, the brewery closure reflects both industry trends and economic challenges. The owners are inviting their loyal patrons to visit in the coming weeks