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The Foundation for Creative Expression 
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The Beat Museum
540 Broadway FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE January 24, 2008 Jerry Cimino: 415-399-9626 When: Saturday - February 9th 10 AM - 10 PM Sunday - February 10th 10 AM - 10 PM Why: Because it's Neal! Seldom can it be said that a single individual so greatly influenced two major social movements, then disappeared with barely a trace - but this is, nonetheless, the case with Neal Cassady. Neal is often referred to as the cross-generational bridge between the Beat Generation and the Hippies. The core writers of the Beats inspired the "angelheaded hipsters" of the 1950's who became known as the "Beatniks" and who, in turn, became the Hippies of the 1960's. Though these counter-culture movements had their differences, they included many of the same cross-over figures - and they were all connected to Neal Cassady. Neal Cassady was the main character of Jack Kerouac's breakthrough novel "On the Road". Simultaneously, Allen Ginsberg named Neal as the "secret-hero" of his groundbreaking poem, "Howl". Years later it was Neal Cassady whom Ken Kesey chose to drive the Merry Pranksters' psychedelic school-bus "Furthur" as they roared into the Hippie era. Neal passed away along the railroad tracks in Mexico in 1968 but his memory lives on. On February 9th and 10th The Beat Museum in North Beach will be celebrating Neal's birthday like never before with a mind-blowing 2-day celebration that will feature live music, special guests, a silent auction, a raffle and much, much more. The silent auction will feature rare and unique Beat Generation collectibles as well as dinners and accommodations donated by local North Beach restaurants and hotels. Other auction items include "Lunch with Local Celebrities and Writers" who will share their knowledge and expertise with the highest bidder. Proceeds will benefit the 501(c)(3) non-profit Foundation for Creative Expression. Guest speakers include, among many others, Neal's children, John Allen Cassady and Jami Cassady Ratto and Neal's lifelong friend, Al Hinkle who, as "Big Ed Dunkel" was a character in Kerouac's book "On The Road". Here's your opportunity to meet Neal's family and hear Al Hinkle's stories as to what it was like to be sitting in the back seat of the '49 Hudson as Jack & Neal drove across America. There will be prizes and refreshments and many other special offerings. Check the Beat Museum's website at thebeatmuseum.org or call 1-800-KER-OUAC for details. |