A Leg Up for Jenn

Bartenders are tough cookies. They have to be to thrive in a workplace where the better you do your job, the louder and ruder the clientele get. So when Jennifer Harton, one of Lil Indies’ star bartenders, ended up snapping her ankle into pieces several weeks ago, she didn’t complain about it. Even though a bartender who can’t stand is a bartender who can’t earn money, Harton took it like a champ, keeping her woe-is-me story to herself – unlike many of the patrons who have indulged in her dangerously delicious concoctions at Lil Indies. Harton’s friends, however, couldn’t let such a linchpin of the boozing community take a fall without a little support. They’ve generously donated their goods and services to a raffle that will raise money to help defray Harton’s medical and living expenses until she can literally get back on her feet. The prizes are diverse, ranging from a New Belgium-branded cruiser bicycle to salon certificates to legal services, and proprietor Will Walker is donating all bar proceeds from 9-11 p.m. as well. So pop in on Thanksgiving Eve and check out Eugene Snowden at Lil Indies or the New Sam Rivers’ Rivbea Orchestra at Will’s to give thanks for tough bartenders – and maybe get a little something for yourself in the deal. – Thaddeus McCollum