Whenever a city is brought back to life, what always seems to move in to create initial forward momentum is art.



Within Tacoma there are so many artists who are doing such big things, both above and below ground, to make our city so hip, cool and happening.



However, I’ve always thought that the people who are constantly pulling events together should really get more recognition than they do, especially because many of the activities that they’re creating out of thin air include little personal gain amongst a tough body of work.



There’s one dude in this city who tries so hard on behalf of Tacoma, and he’s going to be so embarrassed that I’m doing this, but I’m going to dedicate this week’s column to the one and only Jesse Turcotte.



Yes, Jesse is an incredible bartender that you can find at the Jazzbones, Duke’s or the New Frontier Lounge, but he does so much more than that in creating a scene for our city.



If you hop into Jazzbones on Sundays, you will find Jesse behind the helm, but he’s also helped pull together the Big Friction Jam starting at 9 p.m. This night is all-ages until 11 p.m. and it offers a way for all musical styles to join in on a jam. As for beverages, all vodka drinks are $4. You can also score $5 burger and beer specials. Sweet!

On Tuesdays, Turcotte isn’t just slinging drinks at the New Frontier, he’s also helping to coordinate bands and musicians, creating free shows at this ultra cool new lounge.



As if his week weren’t busy enough, on Thursdays, Turcotte throws down Reggae Thursdays at The Swiss with one of the bands that he plays in, Higher Ground. Without a doubt, this is a scene that you must check out. Higher Ground is awesome, and they deliver such sweet body-moving reggae in the fashion that it should be delivered with several musicians and instruments taking part. As of right now, Higher Ground will be playing tonight and again on Dec. 18, but word on the street says that they’ll likely be back after the holiday season for more Thursdays because they are a crowd pleaser.



But behind this bartender and musician extraordinaire, you’ll find that Turcotte is such a good bird, and I’ve only heard people express the utmost respect and admiration for this being and all that he does.



Turcotte indeed has a heart of gold, and it’s artists like him that will continue to bring good things to our city.



That’s precisely why I hope you’ll support the weekly events that he’s pulling together or participating in because he deserves it, and so does Tacoma.



[Jazzbones, 2803 Sixth Ave, Tacoma, 253.396.9169]

[New Frontier Lounge, 301 E. 25th St., Tacoma, 253.572.4020]

[Swiss Pub, 1904 Jefferson Ave., Tacoma, 253.572.2821]



Tell me where you like to party here.