Friday night saw the fall season's first really chilly evening on the Woodstock Square, but a crowd of music lovers were cozy and warm with us at Mixin Mingle where A Place to Shine Music presented their first Songwriters' Showcase.

Half a dozen really talented songwriters from surrounding communities performed their songs and had the house clapping and foot tapping for a couple of hours, while the wind whipped outside. The audience sang along or just enjoyed the performers, and some new friendships were forged as the music heated up and people relaxed and mingled. The tantalizing smell and taste of Jaci's Cookies helped set the mood and really enhanced the complimentary coffee and tea served by Mixin Mingle.

Songwriters' showcase is hosted and presented by Cassandra Vohs-Demann, owner of A Place to Shine Music on Dean St. in Woodstock. A professional musician, vocalist, teacher, and songwriter, this woman of many talents believes artists should have a place to perform, and audiences should be able to enjoy live music affordably and locally. (Left, Steve Sebby of Crystal Lake)

If you missed last night's showcase, mark your calendar for the third Friday of each month and join us at 7:30 on November 15. We guarantee you'll have a great time, even if it's snowing. These performers enjoyed tuning up before the show. (from the left, Tim Merkel, Will Kruger, Sandie Gronert Kindschy)

Hey! If you aren't keeping up with our events calendar, you are missing terrific opportunities to get out and have a great time! (Last photo, Alison Joy and partner Daniel Bieri, of Elgin. They're known as Rune. Not pictured, Serena Isabelli)

Thanks to Tammy's Pizza in Spring Grove for sponsoring Songwriters' Spotlight.