Thanks to the Triangle Business Journal for reporting on this story about Durham musician Tom Merrigan’s use of a social networking site to pitch his dream of playing piano and, as he put it, “bring my boogie-woogie to the public!” in spots around Durham. Merrigan didn’t wait for a grant from a government arts entity and he didn’t decry the lack of public funding. Instead, he did it himself and let the free market work its magic. In just two days he’s convinced a slew of people to back his venture and fund him with more than $2,000. I don’t know Mr. Merrigan, but based on this story, I say congratulations. This is a great example of what happens when individuals pursue their dreams with creativity and enthusiasm, rather than sitting back and waiting for a program to drop cash in his lap. His project pitch is here.