Bluff Park, Alabama Forum

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General Category >> General Board >> Moonlight Music Cafe opening in Bluff Park
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Message started by jflint on 11/06/09 at 8:47am

Title: Moonlight Music Cafe opening in Bluff Park
Post by jflint on 11/06/09 at 8:47am

I saw this article online today. Does anyone know where this Moonlight Music Cafe will be opening up?

http://blog.al.com/mcolurso/2009/11/reason_to_glow_founder_says_mo.html

Title: Re: Moonlight Music Cafe opening in Bluff Park
Post by BluffParkWriter on 11/06/09 at 10:03pm

its news to me....., there is not much in BP I dont know about...I will go on the hunt.....more to come...

Title: Re: Moonlight Music Cafe opening in Bluff Park
Post by nickel4al on 11/09/09 at 9:15am

If I remember correctly, this used to be open in Vestavia by the Stein Mart, but the owner had to shut down a few years ago due to due declining sales...I hope if its the same guy trying a new start we can all support him~~~

Title: Re: Moonlight Music Cafe opening in Bluff Park
Post by BluffParkWriter on 11/09/09 at 12:25pm

here is an update:

I have spoken to Keith Harrelson owner of Moonlight. He is not ready to give specific details yet but yes Moonlight is coming to Bluff Park in a new form and it is nothing that Bluff Park has seen in its business community to date. He is excited to be moving to the area. I will release more details when he has everything finalized. He says his target date for full operation is soon after New Year's and if you'd like to come have a preview at
where the new place will be he will be hosting the final show of the "Small Stages" series next Sunday night, November 15th. Go to www.smallstages.com to make reservations and get the location

You are correct Nickel it is the same guy that was in Vestavia.

Title: Re: Moonlight Music Cafe opening in Bluff Park
Post by johnny4 on 11/11/09 at 5:46pm

BPW: Do you know why he has chosen to not offer alcohol? I'm a young person in Bluff Park (27) and have several friends who have all recently, within the last 2 years, moved here as well.....We have gotten increasingly perplexed at the complete and total void of locations for young professionals to grab a drink with friends and coworkers in the evening....I am glad to see that Moonlight is coming to BP, but sad to hear that it seems to not have any plans to serve drinks.....

Can anyone tell me why this is? Is there some sort of ban on alcohol sales in Bluff park that we don't know of? I feel confident that I know of at least 20 people that would support such an establishment......

Title: Re: Moonlight Music Cafe opening in Bluff Park
Post by bpresident on 11/11/09 at 6:16pm

johnny4 wrote:

Good question, which deserves a valid answer. I'll give you my input from observation. Someone else chime in if you have a different take.

First, we have to look at the demographics of the area, specifically from a religious point of view. We have a fairly conservative population, most who attend church on a regular basis. We have several churches in Bluff Park, with many more within a few miles, two of those that could be considered mega-churches.

Second, the number of schools we have in Bluff Park. Besides the elementary school, we also have a number of daycare/pre-schools in the area. In order for a business (an "establishment") to get a beer/wine license or a liquor license, they must jump through a number of hoops, which include the Zoning Board and then the City Council. Both of those bodies have to approve an establishment being able to get a license to sell alcohol. The fact that we have so many places that cater to children plays a role in the government agency giving a license out.

Obviously politics plays a role. We, as residents of Bluff Park, have to weigh the pros and cons of having a restaurant/establishment that serves alcohol. Let's face it, the patrons will not always be only folks from Bluff Park. And let's also be realistic. Places that sell alcohol, specifically night clubs, CAN create trouble. I'm not saying they WILL, just that they CAN. Put yourself in the place of a council member. Our little neck of the woods accounts for a TON of votes in city council elections. Our residents actually go to the polls and vote, unlike other parts of Hoover, so Bluff Park is an important part of the constituency. A blanket YES vote to any establishment that sells alcohol could spell doom for an incumbent if things turn out bad. Their argument could be that there already are places in Hoover that businesses like that could open that are more likely to get an alcohol license based on their location. I'm not saying that's right, I'm just saying that's how they might think when casting a vote.

I know nothing about this new place, so I couldn't say what kind of crowd they might draw. If it's strictly a 27-54 crowd that just wants to sit back and relax, listen to some music while enjoying a glass of wine, I would say why not give them a shot. But if it's a bar that draws the 21-35 crowd, plays loud music, and creates trouble, I don't think we need that, do you?

Almost three years ago the city invested a good chunk of change in doing a study on what type of businesses Bluff Park could sustain. I don't remember if a nightclub was one of them, but there needed to be a lot of private investment in order for the city to invest money. Obviously times and the economy has changed. The city is in no position to do anything right now except perhaps give out licenses to sell alcohol. If people want this place to be able to sell alcohol, or don't for that matter, they need to contact the council and voice their opinion. Their e-mail addresses can be found here:

http://www.hooveral.org/Default.asp?ID=88

Title: Re: Moonlight Music Cafe opening in Bluff Park
Post by BluffParkWriter on 11/11/09 at 8:51pm

Johnny4,

It is my understanding from my conversation with the owner that it was just a choice not to sell alcohol or food in the "new" form of "Moonlight" which I think will be called Moonlight on the Mountain. Licensing etc that BPresident mentioned was also mentioned so I would attribute the lack of sales to that. Now that does not mean that they or anyone else could not come back later and add that to the establishment. I can not give more detail, but I can say that it is not a nightclub or bar type situation from what I understand, my suggestion is to go to his website and get a reservation for the next event which will be at the new Bluff Park location.

and just to head off a question about Mr. P's selling beer that anyone may have, it is in the city of Birmingham not Hoover.

Title: Re: Moonlight Music Cafe opening in Bluff Park
Post by johnny4 on 11/12/09 at 9:38am

Thank you both for your responses....I appreciate the info

However, I did want to clarify a couple of things:

1) I am NOT in favor of a night club in Bluff Park. Aside from any dilemmas posed by the type of crowd and late-night issues that may arise, it would simply be a bad business decision to locate a new night club in BP. However, I AM in favor of a neighborhood pub/watering hole that would serve as a venue to the after-work crowd or the weekend football fan. I lived in Chicago while I was in school there, and this (www.myspace.com/thewrightwoodtap) was one of my favorite spots in the whole city. A genuine, neighborhood pub that didn't try too hard to be something it isn't. That is pretty much what I envision when thinking of a pub that could do well.

2) Demographics.....This is precisely why I think a business like this would work. BPres, I don't pretend to know your own station in life, views on politics, religious stances, etc, but I DO know that there are more and more people like myself moving into Bluff Park at every opportunity they get. I understand that Bluff Park is predominantly populated by an older, conservative group of individuals. However, in terms of the age, how long do you think that will remain that way? Just in my brief time here (4.5 years) I have had 5 friends buy houses in Bluff Park (2 were on Alford Ave, which I know doesn't technically count) who are all under the age of 30. Truthfully, I could name 10 more who I am not as close to who have purchased homes in the area that are within the same age range as well. Perhaps my experience is unique, but I don't really think it is.
I guess my point is this: With an increasingly younger, startup-minded contingent of home owners in the area, I think those who choose to look down upon some sort of moral highground on the "young troublemakers" will become increasingly smaller in number. My peer group is choosing from neighborhoods like crestline park, edgewood, and forest park....While Bluff Park (in my opinion) can offer these homehunters larger lots at a much more affordable price, the one thing it can not come close to competing in is retail options. What I don't understand is that someone could have an issue with a new business because "patrons will not always be only folks from Bluff Park." Why on earth would you want to start a business that only catered to a small, select few instead of bringing in dollars from patrons who are willing to spend them....no matter where they come from?

3) I understand what you are referring to in regards to political hurdles that impede an idea like this from taking form. However, by your own logic, most of these obstacles are rooted in the idea that politcal leaders hope to avoid blowback from those who would complain because a business acquired a liquor/beer license and planned on serving alcohol in their neighborhood. Wouldn't you agree, then, that it falls as a responsibility to these political leaders to explain to these citizens how additional revenue generates tax dollars that will help to improve the area they love so much? Shouldn't they also explain that establishments such as this will help Bluff Park bring in the home purchasers who are also considering some of the other neighborhoods I mentioned earlier, thus driving property values up? If an individual is against a) improvement to their neck of the woods as well as b) an increase in their property value because they simply object to the idea of alchohol being sold......Well, I have nothing more to say to them because clearly logic is not something they make their decisions upon

Reading over this, I think it seems like I am being very argumentative, which is not my intention at all....I guess I just get frustrated that when a friend calls me from crestline park to get together for a beer or glass of wine, I have absolutely no option within 5 miles of my home.....That just doesn't make sense, does it?

Back to the original issue at hand: I certainly hope Mr. Harrelson does well with his new location for Moonlight, but I would pose this question: Who does he think will be supporting his business? A bluehair or me? I'm not trying to tell anyone how to run their business, but I think he would do well to consider the type of people who are going to be darkening his doorway.....And the cold, hard truth is that there are certain amenities that we expect from establishments like his, and when those amenities are missing.........wellll........

Title: Re: Moonlight Music Cafe opening in Bluff Park
Post by bpresident on 11/12/09 at 10:01am

johnny4 wrote:

I think you may have misunderstood my post as being against your idea. I'm not. I think it is time that we look at bringing in a neighborhood "pub" as you suggest. Not only do I think we need a place like that, I think as you do, that it would make the area more appealing to a young professional crowd.

So you see, it's not me that you need to convince. I think it's a great idea. The question is "Is it a viable idea?". If you build it, WILL they come? The "they" in that sentence is people like you and me. It's important that once a business opens in Bluff Park that we patronize it. I've seen too many good businesses fold because people didn't go there.

As for our local government, I've found that our city council is a pretty open minded group. They will listen to any idea, but they are also want solid facts to support the ideas. Our police sub-station is a perfect example of that.

Glad to see you on our forum and hope that you'll post more.

Title: Re: Moonlight Music Cafe opening in Bluff Park
Post by BluffParkWriter on 11/12/09 at 11:10am

I think a neighborhood pub is a very good idea as you said Johnny4 there is not such a place for miles around BP.

I would not count out the idea of alcohol at the establishment, he is just not going to sell it at this time, does not mean that will not change in the future. It could turn to a brown bag it kind of situation if that is allowed he has said that he will have to see the city about that. As I said make a reservation on his web site and go see what it is going to be about. Its going to be different "a different" form" from what was in Vestavia.. its a new idea... As soon as he has more details ironed out I will release them as he wants

Title: Re: Moonlight Music Cafe opening in Bluff Park
Post by BLUFFPARKJOE on 11/12/09 at 12:43pm

I don't believe most folk in Bluff Park want to live in Crestline, Edgewood, or Forest Park.

Those locations are OK - but they are not Bluff Park.

We have a unique situation and a great place to raise a family.
I prefer to keep it that way and am willing to drive a short while if I want something different for the evening.

The new location is within walking distance of one of our fine schools - not a good spot for a "pub".

Title: Re: Moonlight Music Cafe opening in Bluff Park
Post by nickel4al on 11/12/09 at 1:34pm

Bluff Park definitely needs something to try to liven it up...A coffee house, and this sounds like it might be, could be a good idea, but I don't see how it could possibly stay open every night. Sounds like a place that might have small events and open for them, but stay closed the rest of the time. Nothing wrong with that, but if he decided to make it more appealing to peopel other than "hippie" types it might do better.

Title: Re: Moonlight Music Cafe opening in Bluff Park
Post by johnny4 on 11/12/09 at 4:12pm

BLUFFPARKJOE: I agree with you that BP provides a unique opportunity to raise a family in a great neighborhood. After all, I live here, so I must like it somewhat. My point about the other neighborhoods is that they offer something that we currently don't have: retail options. I'm not looking for miracles here....Just a little movement in the right direction. To say that you don't mind driving somewhere else to meet with people for a drink or night out is perfectly fine....But I have news for you Joe: you don't have a choice.
In terms of location, I don't think having it directly next to a school is a good idea either, but that doesn't have to be the case.

BPresident: Sorry for sounding preachy....I am glad you are in agreement with me....That means you are super smart! ;)

I certainly hope Mr. Harrelson figures out the right formula, and honestly BPW, before you mentioned the brown bag idea, I wondered if that might be a viable option, at least at the beginning......He could even charge a corking fee for $5-$8, and I think it would help generate a little extra revenue for him at minimal cost.....anyway, it's a good idea to try out

Title: Re: Moonlight Music Cafe opening in Bluff Park
Post by dw14 on 11/13/09 at 11:08am

A neighborhood pub would be great b/c when we go grab drinks after work we normally go to Homewood or downtown. I would also fall into the "young professional" crowd and have wondered about a little place. Oak Hill in Homewood is walking distance from the school and as far as I can tell all the schools and churches right there are just fine.... Just sayin'

Title: Re: Moonlight Music Cafe opening in Bluff Park
Post by BLUFFPARKJOE on 11/13/09 at 1:30pm

I have news for you Johnny - I do have a choice. I chose to live in Bluff Park and I choose to stay.

If you want to live in those other places then you too have a choice.

Hey - I think those other neighborhoods are cool - nice places to visit - but I just don't want to live there.

Title: Re: Moonlight Music Cafe opening in Bluff Park
Post by harvardmba on 11/13/09 at 2:50pm

First, let me state for the record that I am not in favor of this type establishment in our corner of Hoover for some of the very reasons posted here and, should it ever come up for a vote, I would vote no. Now, with that said, if that type establishment were to be allowed, I don't think it would really matter to me as long as it did not become a public nuisance and did not interfer with the peace and quiet of our wonderful neighborhood. If it were to become an issue, then I feel relatively sure that if enough residents complained loud enough and long enough, it could/would be shut down. Who, with the knowledge that the residents really oppose this type business, would want to persue taking a chance on something that could potentially cost them money for poor judgement?

Title: Re: Moonlight Music Cafe opening in Bluff Park
Post by nickel4al on 11/13/09 at 3:08pm

Anyone on here that is not in favor of having a new establishment in the area, truly doesn't care about the neighborhood. You talk about supporting the neighborhood and want stuff nearby, but only on your terms. Everyone "loved" Little Ceasars, but that shut down...The grocery store shut down...Minervas left. Now we have people on here that dis the Pig because it doesn't have a good variety, or the Wing place because its not open on Sundays...We should support what we have and maybe if people see they are supported more places would come in. Really If you really care about Bluff Park, you should be happy to have anything come to the area, to help build up the area...They aren't talking about a strip club or anything, just a place where people can go, listen to music, and relax with friends.

Title: Re: Moonlight Music Cafe opening in Bluff Park
Post by dw14 on 11/13/09 at 6:00pm

That was a good post.

Title: Re: Moonlight Music Cafe opening in Bluff Park
Post by bpresident on 11/13/09 at 6:17pm

nickel4al wrote:

If a place were to open and it isn't what it was supposed to be, a couple of complaints would make it go away:

http://blog.al.com/spotnews/2009/05/hoover_city_council_votes_to_s.html

Title: Re: Moonlight Music Cafe opening in Bluff Park
Post by johnny4 on 11/16/09 at 9:53am

BPJOE: With all due respect, I think you need to re-read my original response to you...I wasn't saying you didn't have a choice in places to live...You do, and I'm glad you chose Bluff Park....I was saying you don't have a choice in terms of evening dining/drink retail spaces....I think you can agree with that.

HarvardMBA: I'm sorry to hear that you are not in support of a local business that has the potential to do well, but you are certainly entitled to your own opinion. In terms of who else feels similarly, I think you are probably right that there are a few others that would view a neighborhood pub in a negative light. However, I think there are probably many more who feel as I do, that an establishment like this would be a positive thing for both the economic and cultural development of Bluff Park.

Unfortunately, as BPres pointed out in that article, it seems as if a few bad apples tend to spoil the bunch. (my interpretation, not his) Despite the possibility that a Bluff park-based pub could have the patronage to keep it going, it seems that the smallest bit of blowback would halt its development.

I think there are a couple of key points to be learned from the Southlake issue:
- IF a neighborhood pub were to open in BP, they would have to be extremely sensitive to the noise issue....Whether this entailed sound proofing, location, choice of live music, etc (or probably all three) the owner would need to have as minimal impact on the noise landscape in Bluff Park as possible.
- I think transparency in the "type" of establishment to be brought in is absolutely necessary....If you are going to be a sports bar, say you're going to be a sports bar.....If you are going to be an irish pub w/ karaoke on thursdays, disclose that in the outset....I think the biggest killer of a business like this would be to say that you are going to be one thing, and then turning out to be something else...It makes it difficult to argue in your favor when you weren't honest about what you were bringing to the table

Title: Re: Moonlight Music Cafe opening in Bluff Park
Post by ponder on 11/16/09 at 10:16am

Ok, I will admit that I did not take the time to read all of the posts on this topic. I assume that some people are for the new business, and others are against it. My wife and I have only lived in Bluff Park for 1 year or so. We are newly married, 29 & 24 yrs. old, and we moved here in July 2008. I understand that others that have been here much longer have their opinion, and rightfully so. But to speak on behalf of the younger posters, I would be 100% in favor of a cafe/bar/restaurant in Bluff Park. I think as long as Lakeview and 5 Points are around, the younger (college-aged) crowd is going to stick to those establishments. A place that served food, and drinks, and had light music on the weekends would be great for our neighborhood, in my opinion! The only comparable places I can think of are Oak Hill in Homewood, and Tommy's Up Top in Vestavia. I don't know if Tommy's is even there anymore, but both of these places are close in proximity to neighborhoods, schools, churches, etc. and as far as I know there are no problems. Believe me, I love the fact that Bluff Park is a quiet, secluded, safe neighborhood. That is why we moved up here. I do not think a new business would change that. My family used to live on Valley Ave. when I was born, and still lives off of Alford Ave. in Vestavia now. It is a great part of town. But the 2 shopping centers in Bluff Park are pretty sad to be honest. I love New China, and having Piggly Wiggly (just to grab a few things) so close by, but that is about it. With the Publix shopping center on Hwy. 150, to the Grove, it seems like our shopping centers are going downhill and need something new....

Title: Re: Moonlight Music Cafe opening in Bluff Park
Post by bpresident on 11/28/09 at 7:59am

From the Birmingham News:

http://blog.al.com/mcolurso/2009/11/small_stages_show_offers_a_pee.html

Title: Re: Moonlight Music Cafe opening in Bluff Park
Post by BluffParkWriter on 11/28/09 at 2:38pm

The Location:

"585 Shades Crest Road, on the ground floor of a homey retail center that also houses the Bluff Park Diner, almost directly across from the Tip Top Grill."

Title: Re: Moonlight Music Cafe opening in Bluff Park
Post by Bluff Park Forum Admin on 12/11/09 at 10:35am

Please read this update:

http://bluffparkal.org/bpforum/YaBB.pl?num=1260548741/0#0

Title: Re: Moonlight Music Cafe opening in Bluff Park
Post by Moonlight on 12/17/09 at 6:37pm

Hasn't been much chit-chat lately about plans for the Moonlight at Lover's Leap--- so let me catch you up on where we stand at the moment---

Our hearing Monday night before the Planning and Zoning Board was an enlightening experience---
I'm happy to say that there were no objections to the presentation of live music at that location, so we feel that we can go ahead with our plans to operate there, provided we can bring the building up to code for hosting an audience when we have events. Many of you know that changing a space from a retail storefront to an Assembly category involves modifications that will make it safe for more than fifteen people at a time. Fire code requires the creation of a rear exit with wheelchair refuge, and reinforcing firewalls and barriers between the building and its neighbor. Another ADA accessible restroom has to be added, along with a dozen further little upgrades--- all of which we hope to accomplish in January.

During the PZ Board's meeting, we were quietly advised to ask for a month's continuance on the Planning and Zoning approval vote, to separate us from the efforts of another applicant who's seeking to reinstate his live music permit, which was revoked amid much public hoopla last spring--- evidently, Board and Council members would not be inclined to approve one at the same time they denied another. While I believe each application should be considered and decided according to its own merits, it seemed prudent to play the game according to the arcane whims of its referees--- even if it means more time and expense in the process.

The city authorities, I think, are supportive of our plans--- there are simply a lot of dance steps to complete, mainly so that liabilities can be assigned to the proper entities. I'm confident we'll get our approval at January's meeting, and then have to go before the full City Council in February. The extra weeks, while frustrating and costly, will perhaps come in handy for the build-out, multiple inspections, and any unforeseen delays.

As to the many comments regarding the need for a pub or an upscale food & drink source in BP--- man, I'm with ya. However, unless you've been in the business of operating such an establishment, you can't halfway imagine the nightmare of regulations, requirements, licenses, permits, documents, taxes, and general up-front out-the-door expenses involved in getting to the point where you can sell your first plate of tapas or glass of Shiraz. Add the 16-hour workdays, the high expectations or the lack of sophistication of most customers, and a devastating economy that keeps everybody huddled at home these days--- it's a wonder anyone would be dumb enough to attempt a start-up, especially in neighborhood that has no record of supporting such
businesses in the past.

So what'sa matter with me, that I'm idiot enough to try something like this? Common sense says that the Moonlight's new location has zero chance of ever becoming a watering hole for trolling singles, or after-work yuppies, or new retirees, or even old ones--- all of which are plentiful in the surrounding neighborhood. It would be flat impossible to get approval for an ABC license--- there are several super-resistant residents, churches, and a school too close, plus a covenant dating back sixty years on that hilltop property, prohibiting "dance halls, roadhouses, or honky-tonks." Stop in, grab a frosty beer, say hi to Sam, Diane and Norm? Never gonna happen.... not there, sorry.

BUT--- I believe that what I have in mind will fit neatly into the space--- low-key, intriguing, inclusive, affordable, and unique entertainment of a sort that can't be found anywhere else in the area. The Moonlight stage would host real musicians and performers, travelers from around the world, as well as aspiring local players of all ages, who don't have another platform to get heard, or even get started. Our southern suburbs are full of people who still support and appreciate the last forty years of American folk, roots, country, and blues music--- they just can't bring themselves to drive ten miles to a loud, smoky bar to spend twenty-five bucks and be uncomfortable all night.

I believe a broader range of people would be more likely to patronize a nearby spot that's not so different from their own living room--- calm, friendly, easygoing--- AND, they'd get to bring along their own choice of store-bought beverages, long as they're of a legal age to do so. Sure, lots of you won't be interested in a place like that, you would prefer something less homegrown and more conventional... so maybe we should say that The Moonlight won't be for everybody, it's for everybody ELSE.

What I hope will evolve is a true, independent community center--- a family-friendly room that can be used for whatever populist activities may naturally present themselves. Concerts, celebrations, small organization meetings, forums... a stand-alone gathering hall, without the overriding sanction of a church, school, or municipality. Of course, I'll be trying to cover the overhead through daytime operations as a photography/video studio--- believing that the people who participate in the evening activities will be a significant source of that business.

Bluff Park has a thousand different voices, and my ears are open to any opinions, as I pursue this project. This is a hip-pocket enterprise, there's no nationwide chain or coalition of investors shoveling money into a bank account to underwrite it.... just me and my finite resources, hoping to refine and reconstitute a singular social experiment that'll be appreciated and remembered.
I look forward to teaming up with folks who can contribute their skills in making it a reality-- we could sure use some hammer-swingers for the upcoming construction, we'll need some forward-thinking computer-tech and video help in getting the studio put together, and we're open to the input of anyone--- men, women, or children-- with ideas about how best to make use of
a non-partisan, non-denominational, non-governmental little baby town hall.

Go to the website, you'll see how to contact me--- www.moonlightonthemtn.com

And here you thought it was gonna be a night club---

Title: Re: Moonlight Music Cafe opening in Bluff Park
Post by JBH on 12/17/09 at 9:31pm

Thanks for the update. Looking forward to it, even w/o Norm :)

Title: Re: Moonlight Music Cafe opening in Bluff Park
Post by BluffParkWriter on 12/17/09 at 11:26pm

Great post!!

Title: Re: Moonlight Music Cafe opening in Bluff Park
Post by Forolemiss on 01/01/10 at 8:07pm

If you have the "Bring your own bottle" policy, just provide a bar, bartender and charge a corking fee for any bottle/drink served. That way you are making a little money with no liability.

Title: Re: Moonlight Music Cafe opening in Bluff Park
Post by bvhcpa on 01/05/10 at 11:25am

As a not-so-young professional, my husband and I have lived in Bluff Park for about 8 years and have long wondered why there wasn't a local pub in the area. We hope that as older residents move off to retirement homes and pass away, and younger residents move in, that the community as a whole will improve. There are some lovely things about Bluff Park, which is why we were attracted to this area, but there are some very real problems that need to be addressed sooner rather than later. Retail establishments being one of big ones.

Title: Re: Moonlight Music Cafe opening in Bluff Park
Post by JBH on 01/05/10 at 4:01pm

The greeting card profession, no doubt :-?

Title: Re: Moonlight Music Cafe opening in Bluff Park
Post by pekaboo on 01/05/10 at 7:48pm

you would think with young people living in the apartments and families who cann't afford parts of homewood, vestavia and mountain brook, that enough people would not mind having a pub. I don't think its neccesarily the age factor but the conservative vs liberal.

Title: Re: Moonlight Music Cafe opening in Bluff Park
Post by CG4 on 01/06/10 at 11:31am

Didn't the Lover's Leap Cafe have a BYOB policy?

Title: Re: Moonlight Music Cafe opening in Bluff Park
Post by jennmccown on 01/14/10 at 12:03pm

Would y'all check out my post under the Places to Eat Forum....it relates to this issue. I don't know how to do a link to it! :)

Thanks!!

Title: Re: Moonlight Music Cafe opening in Bluff Park
Post by jennmccown on 01/14/10 at 8:30pm

Lover's Leap Cafe...now THAT is an interesting memory....someone should delve into the newspapers and dig up articles about the fire that destroyed the cafe and the woman in her bathrobe outside yelling BURN BURN..... The problem with this issue is the mentality and FEAR - FEAR of change, of losing control, etc.

Let's move this neighborhood into the 21st century and stay out of the prohibition era. I'm opening a Bistro!!! ;)

Title: Re: Moonlight Music Cafe opening in Bluff Park
Post by teatucker on 01/16/10 at 1:09pm

jennmccown wrote:

I remember all that, I was here. There was a lot in the paper about it also. big mess. Better place now that it is rebuilt.

If you open a Bistro I will be the first in the door!!

Title: Re: Moonlight Music Cafe opening in Bluff Park
Post by ChapmanJames on 01/18/10 at 3:06pm

I have played at the old Moonlight Music Cafe several times and I can attest that it is was fabulous listening room venue with none of the distractions most people think of when they hear 'Live Music Venue'. Keith invites many genres to play: Folk, Country, Gospel, Rhythm and Blues... there is something for everyone. The performances start early and are usually done before 10PM. No liquor and I believe in the new location there will be no food nor beverages on sale either... just original music for those that love it. Keith's location will also expose the retailers in the community to many enthusiasts that wouldn't hitherto even be aware of their cozy establishments. The Vestavia location wasn't intimate enough for Keith's vision of a listening room and so he closed it mostly because the clientele did not care for the over commercialized area near the Rave on 31. I live very near the prospective location and am looking forward to having it as part of our charming community. I believe it is an artistic outlet of which we will grow proud here on the Bluff.

Chapman James
http://chapmanjames.wikispaces.com/

Title: Re: Moonlight Music Cafe opening in Bluff Park
Post by Moonlight on 01/29/10 at 2:19pm

Thanks, Chap--- we can't wait to get rolling up there on the hilltop so you can come in regular and help us be THE place for area and traveling songwriters. I haven't posted any word recently on the progress up there, because it's moving about as fast as national health care reform--- this is just to let everyone know that the architect's drawings are complete, and we are hoping to begin the few modifications called for any day now, soon as Hoover signs off on the plans. Still hoping to be open March 1st, but this is a weird world, so who knows what might happen
tomorrow or the next day---

Again, I wish I could plan to serve alcohol at that location, but if you'll scroll up and re-read the reasons why that's not gonna happen--- too much money has to be spent at the front end, and too many locals are against the agenda to hope for it to be successful--- but remember that you will be able to bring your own little snackies and beverages
to the performances, and that means less money out of pocket for a very special night out.

Go to the Moonlight website, and add your name to the email list so I can keep you advised of the schedule:

www.moonlightonthemtn.com

Thanks for your interest and support!

keith

Title: Re: Moonlight Music Cafe opening in Bluff Park
Post by friendofbp on 02/04/10 at 6:07pm

I am finally just getting around to posting, sorry about that!
What a great idea for any community, but how WONDERFUL
that it will be in our own back yard!

It kinda sounds like it could be a Blue Bird Cafe in the making!

GREAT idea!

Thank you!

Title: Re: Moonlight Music Cafe opening in Bluff Park
Post by sweethome2 on 02/06/10 at 2:51pm

Moonlight, please check the pm that I sent.

Title: Re: Moonlight Music Cafe opening in Bluff Park
Post by Bluff Park Forum Admin on 03/13/10 at 8:14am

Opening date set:

http://blog.al.com/mcolurso/2010/03/kevin_welch_to_open_doors_at_m.html

Title: Re: Moonlight Music Cafe opening in Bluff Park
Post by Moonlight on 04/15/10 at 10:25am

Finally-- Moonlight is now open for music, with a schedule of upcoming concerts posted on our website--->

www.moonlightonthemtn.com

As I said before, this is not so much a business as a social experiment--- I'm hoping that the community will embrace the concept of a place to gather and enjoy cultural activities of many kinds, it's up to you to decide the direction it will take. Of course, the overhead must be paid, and to that end, the room is available for very reasonable rent to anyone who would like to use it for a family, social, or corporate gathering.
Come by, see what it looks like, and contact me with your ideas--- in the meantime, I'll be scheduling the best original acoustic musicians for evening concerts, so you'll have a low-cost, casual place to go for entertainment... right in your own neighborhood.

Come on in, and let me meet you!

keith harrelson

Title: Re: Moonlight Music Cafe opening in Bluff Park
Post by teatucker on 04/16/10 at 10:49pm

Saw the big sign in the window tonight as I drove home!
Looks great! could not stop but plan on attending.
I think this is something new and great for our area.

Title: Re: Moonlight Music Cafe opening in Bluff Park
Post by Moonlight on 05/12/10 at 12:52pm

We gotta keep blowing the trumpet---- WE ARE OPEN AND HAVING CONCERTS---- also need to get people thinking about having their private events here--
got room for 85 seated, well-suited for evening affairs such as meetings, receptions, presentations, celebrations, etc.
Admission charged for our music events supports the artists, we are looking for other ways to cover our overhead, and to serve the neighborhood community... come see the space, reach us through the email and phone number on the website:
www.moonlightonthemtn.com
and help us get our roots planted here on this unique hilltop. Thanks!