Expansion Magazine launch party celebrates first issue of literary magazine in Vernon

VERNON — The new literary magazine Expansion is launching its first issue with a party celebrating musical, dance, poetry and visual artists. The Expansion Launch Party takes place Saturday, Feb. 24, at Minerals Resort in Vernon. A dozen musical acts are scheduled to perform, including Todd Sheaffer of Railroad Earth, The Still River Band, Kris Kehr of Stone Poets, singer songwriter Bob Nicholson, Angelo M, singer songwriter Peter Holmgren with guitarist/mandolin player Kevin Andreas and the Smokin’ Buddies Band. Jeff Toale will also display his hand-carved and -painted guitars. There will be poetry readings by Jim Berkheiser, Tim Simpson and the featured poet of Expansion’s first issue, Jean LeBlanc. Local visual artists Linda Barboni, Melissa Graff, Arlene Higginson and Marie Liu will have their works on display. Belly Dancing performances will be given by The Goddess Essence Dancers. Executive Editor Mark Levin says getting the magazine together is a dream come true. He actually published one issue of a similar magazine when he was in college, but it was sidelined with other commitments. For years he worked as a freelance writer. His work has been featured in the New York Times and magazines. His vision to publish his own magazine got stronger after leaving his job and an illness. He decided the time was right to pursue his dream. “I love working with other artists work and hopefully helping them make their work the best it can be,” he says. Included in the price of each ticket are a free copy of the first Expansion Magazine, buffet dinner, continuous live music, free drink tickets, soft drinks, coffee, tea and a cash bar. Only advance tickets are available at $50, with group discounts available. Send orders with a check or money order payable to Exactly, Expansion Launch Party, P.O. Box 243, Vernon, N.J. 07462-0243. For more info call 973-764-7194 or e-mail expansionnj@yahoo.com. The magazine is online at www.myspace.com/expansionnj. Mineral Resort and Spa is located at Chamonix Drive and Route 94 in Vernon. For more on the artists, visit www.kriskehr.com, www.bobnicholson.com, www.myspace.com/toddsheaffer or www.angelom.com.