Why are there six (6) working doors on the set of “Lend Me A Tenor”, the American Classics Theater Festival’s offering by Mt. Hood Repertory Theater Company? Read on and find out why you should be buying tickets.
In the Main Theater at Mt. Hood Community College, Maggie (Eleanor Cohn-Eichner) is the girlfriend of Max (Kirk Mouser), who is the assistant to the manager of the opera company that finds itself suddenly without a star tenor in the hilarious Broadway comedy, “Lend Me A Tenor”.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
We’ll tell you about the six (6) doors on the set of “Lend Me A Tenor” in a moment. But, if you’re looking for a touching, thought-provoking show, read below and learn about their second production, “Sea Marks”.
“Lend Me A Tenor” a comedic farce
Farce: Circus, a charade, a mockery, a ridiculous situation.
Comedic Farce: A very, very funny play based on situational comedy.
Mt. Hood Rep’s Artistic Director, Tobias Andersen, told us he chose Ken Ludwig’s “Lend Me A Tenor” because “this award-winning comedy is one of the funniest farces to play Broadway.”
We’ll miss seeing Andersen’s consummate acting skill on stage in this, the tenth anniversary season of the American Classics Theater, hosted by Mt. Hood Community College. But, he directs a top-notch cast through a laugh-out-loud funny, fast-paced show.
Julia, (MaryAnne Glazebrook) the chairman of the Opera Guild calls on Bellboy (Matt Preston) for a spot of tea with Saunders (Alan H. King), Maggie’s father, and General Manager of the Cleveland Grand Opera Company.
Max finds out he must go on stage to stand-in for Tito Merelli, world-renowned tenor and expresses his terror to his boss, Saunders.
The story: As the Cleveland Grand Opera prepares for one of its biggest nights in history, world famous tenor Tito Merelli’s appearance on stage seems highly unlikely. But as we all know, the show must go on – under any circumstances, even if it means sending a replacement on stage: Max, a petrified-with-fright production assistant.
Diana (Beth McShane), an operatic soprano, makes Max an offer he, well, what do you think?
Wife Maria (Sarah Dresser) shares a moment with her husband, Tito Merelli (David Maier), the world-famous tenor known as “Il Stupendo”.
The six (6) doors
Why are there six doors? The characters are coming and going with split-second timing and keep “missing” one another. Without the six doors, the play wouldn’t work!
We’re not going to give away the “curtain call” at the play’s conclusion. But from what we saw, this could be the most hilarious two minutes you’ll ever see on in a live stage production.
“Sea Marks”
In the Mt. Hood Community College Studio Theater, you’ll find the moving story of Colm (Patrick Wohlmut) a fisherman/poet as he meets pen-pal Timothea Styles (Amanda Soden) in the next step of their complex relationship in “Sea Marks”.
In the more intimate Studio Theater, associate artistic director, Trisha Pancio-Armour directs “Sea Marks.”
This is a tale of a simple fisherman who discovers a poetic inner voice when he begins writing to a publisher’s assistant he meets at a cousin’s wedding. But when she decides to publish his intimate letters about life on the sea as a book of poetry, he is made into an instant celebrity. Suddenly, their simple love affair becomes very complex.
When and where:
Mt. Hood Repertory Theater Company Presents
10th Annual American Classics Theatre Festival
MHCC Main Stage
“Lend Me A Tenor”
opens Friday, July 28, 2006 and runs through August 20
MHCC Studio Theatre
“Sea Marks”
opens Saturday, July 29, 2006 and runs through August 20
Friday and Saturday evening performances at 8:00 p.m.
Sunday Matinee performances at 2:00 p.m.
General Admission – $20.00, Seniors/Students $15.00
Festival Pass – $34.00 General Admission, $28.00 Seniors/Students
Mt. Hood Community College Theaters are located on SE 257th Ave (Kane Rd.); the driveway is south of SE Stark St. in Gresham. From I-84, take Exit 17 (Troutdale) and go east.
Information and tickets are available by calling The Rep at (503) 491-5950, on line at www.mthoodrep.org.
© 2006 David F. Ashton ~ East PDX News
Enjoy this outer East Portland Independence Day tradition by talking a look at these exclusive photos (and even a low-resolution movie!)‚
Photo story by David F. Ashton
This Independence Day parade isn’t the biggest in the nation. And, it takes place the day before the national holiday, July 3.
But talk with any of the participants in the East Portland Community Center’s annual parade‚ young or old‚ and they’ll tell you it’s the best.
We enjoy going to the parade, and sharing these photos with you,
David Sayre fuels up for the big parade with $1 hot dog served up at the East Portland Community Center.
Joey Nichols and Alyssa have fun working together to create haberdashery fit for an Independence Day celebration parade.
From infants in strollers, to senior citizens riding a golf cart, participants in the East Portland Community Center Parade line up in the parking lot.
Off they go! The route takes the marching throng from the community center, to Cherrywood Village two blocks away, and back again.
Honored members of American Legion Post #1 are the official Color Guard for the parade.
Although there wasn’t a marching band, live, lively music was provided courtesy of Haldeman’s Oom-pa Boys.
Wanna see the movie? It’s low resolution, but it gives you the feel of the event! To see it, CLICK HERE!
© 2007 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News Service
If you missed it, a look at this story and you’ll see why you must come and check out the newest open-air market in outer East Portland next week
What does the Midway Business Association have to do with “Reptile-Man”, ice cream treats, and a lawyer? Take a look at this 3-in-1 story (with great photos) and find out …
At the Midland Library, the Oregon Reptile Man – Richard Ritchey – shows his alligator, which he says can tell if kids have been good – or bad. This young man one was deemed by the ‘gator to be “good”.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
The small-but-growing Midway Business Association, a group of business people in southern outer East Portland, does more than just promote their own enterprises – they also promote goodwill in the community.
For example, to support the summer reading program at Midland Library, they hosted an ice cream social, following an appearance by Oregon’s Reptile Man at the library.
You’ll learn more about the Midway Business Association later in this story. But first, Oregon’s Reptile Man …
Richard Ritchey’s Puff Adder takes a strike at him during the show.
Ritchey’s reptiles captivate kids
The reptiles Richard Ritchey brings to Midland Library are more than toads and tadpoles. They include rattlesnakes, a King Cobra, and a pet alligator that “pets” good little boys.
More than just showing off his pets, Ritchey tells the captivated kids about the reptiles, where they live, and how they behave in the wild.
“This snake gives birth to live babies – each is capable of killing prey on its first day in the world,” says Ritchey. “He’s very calm today.”
The snake coils and lunges for Ritchey. “That was a false strike. He had no intention of striking me – he just wanted to scare me. He did; he’s going back in his condo.”
We could clearly hear the rattle of his Western Diamondback before we could see the snake.
“Hear the rattle?” Ritchey asks before he carefully brings his Western Diamondback rattlesnake out of its box. “It senses heat. Over 1,000 people are bitten by rattlesnakes each year. Only two out of ten were ‘accidental’ bites; the other eight people bitten were trying to kill or capture the snake. If you see a snake, don’t run. Just turn around and walk away.”
Ritchey invites his young audience members to come pet his python. Surprisingly, many take him up on his offer.
Midway Business Association sponsors ice Cream Social
Talay and Lavonne Larson are two of a hundred kids (and adults) served ice cream by Midway Business Association’s Donna Dionne and other association members.
After Reptile Man’s program, Midway Business Association’s President, Donna Dionne, and treasurer, Tammy Williams, handed out ice cream cups in Midland Library’s lobby.
“More than operating businesses in the community,” says Dionne, “we want to actively help support our area. That’s why we volunteer to help with the library’s summer program and other area events.”
Free legal advice dispensed at Midway Business Association
Lawyer Scott Nielson helps business people get a better understanding of laws passed in Salem, and how it affects their businesses.
But, when not handing out ice cream at the library, the Midway Business Association gives a “voice” to people running businesses in the southern portion of outer East Portland.
What do they do at their monthly meetings?
For example, at the last meeting before summer vacation, members got their usual update of happenings at regional meetings and events. And, they heard from a guest speaker who spoke about how legislation and litigation affect business people in the area.
The guest speaker, Scott Nielson J.D., Attorney at Law, started by commending the organization for how effectively they’ve communicated their needs to city and county representatives.
Turning to the past state legislative session, Nielson covered the expansion of the Oregon Bottle Bill; and how legislators hotly debated the meaning of “bottled water”.
He told how those who purchase scrap metals must now start keeping accurate records of those from whom they buy; he went on to explain the implications of price increase limitations put on businesses, if a natural disaster causes an “abnormal disruption of the market” as certified by the Governor; and he related the new penalties in store for business owners who – even inadvertently, because of a computer security breach – disclose customer information.
Turning to personnel matters, Nielson covered new regulations that allow mothers to breastfeed on the job. He went on to tell how “family leave” now even extends to the care of grandparents, parents, and grandchildren – not simply direct family members. He also pointed out new regulations that require accommodation of workers’ religious garb and celebrations.
Nielson also answered questions on issues ranging from elder law to contracts.
Accounting to be demystified at next meeting
On Tuesday, September 11, come and meet with the members of the Midway Business Association.
Kevin Minkoff, CPA, will share the latest IRS rules, and give practical tips on how to tune up your bookkeeping procedures. Kevin – “not your ordinary bean-counter” – always gives an upbeat, lively, and informative presentation.
Visitors ARE welcome, and the presentation is free (but you must pay for your own lunch). Their meeting runs from 11:45 AM until 1 PM at Bill Dayton’s PIZZA BARON Restaurant on SE 122nd Ave., just south of Division St. For more information, go to www.midwayba.com.
© 2007 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News Service
Here’s your invitation to look in on the party thrown by, and for, volunteers who have worked for 25 years to make this unique outer East Portland park into a natural wonderland …
Leach Garden volunteer Ernie Francisco, tells executive director Karen Young how she recruited Bette Howard to help with the garden 25 years ago.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Leach Botanical Garden is the site of many events during the year. It’s often rented out for receptions, meetings and private parties.
But on August 25, the merriment was due to volunteers celebrating two and a half decades of service at this unique Portland park.
“Tonight, we are celebrating the 25th anniversary of the formation of Leach Garden Friends,” says Karen Young, executive director, as she welcomes us to the party, now in full sway. “This is the group that got together and saved this garden.”
The property, located just south of SE Foster Road, on SE 122nd Avenue, was willed to the City of Portland by Mr. and Mrs Leach. “They had no heirs,” explains Young. “They wanted it to be used as a botanical garden and museum. If the city would not use it, it would go to the YMCA.”
Enjoying the evening during the 25th Anniversary “Leach Garden Friends” party are outer East Portland parks advocate Linda Robinson with Sharon and Andy Szolnoki.
“The garden wasn’t tended, and the property languished for several years,” continues Young. “A group got together and worked to save it; forming the Friends group in the process. They urged the city to support the Garden. The Parks Director at the time, Charles Jordan, listened to them. They put the organization together, and got it open to the public 25 years ago.”
Since then, although it is owned by Portland Parks & Recreation, Leach Friends have continued to operate the property.
Guitarist Margaret Slovak shares her musical gift by providing an acoustical soundtrack for the evening’s festivities.
A well-attended gathering
The patio swirls with activity and pleasant conversation, accompanied by acoustical music by guitarist Margaret Slovak.
Graphic displays of Leach history and past and present volunteers line the walls of the main room. Guests graze on refreshments amidst good company, in a beautiful setting.
Garden volunteer Nick Gianopoulos serves fellow volunteer Gabriel Weiss, a mason who helped build the brick patio, a glass of wine.
One of the celebrants we meet is long-time Lents resident Ernie Francisco. “Charlene Holsworth, who has since passed away, visited every neighbor in the area and recruited me,” she tells us. “I recruited my friend here, Bette Howard. We still love working at the Garden.”
Looking ahead
“We’re working on a master plan for the Garden,” Young says. “We hope to take this to the Portland City Council by November. The plan will involve how the property will be interpreted – as a museum. Also the upper property – we have about ten additional acres to be developed. We are working on making decisions about how we will develop that.”
Volunteer George Taylor looks at the historical display posted in the Leach house.
Some the concepts under consideration include developing an education center and children’s garden, and more demonstration sites. Also, they are studying moving the entrance east to a spot near SE 122nd and Foster Road, to make it more accessible.
You can join the 300+ active volunteers at Leach Garden and help continue the legacy of this fine natural outer East Portland attraction. Contact the office by calling (503) 823-9503 or e-mailing info@leachgarden.org.
© 2007 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News Service
Some neighborhoods go all out for National Night Out. But the big event for this neighborhood is super-sized family picnic in the park. Take a look …
Volunteer Julie Neburka, here cutting the watermelon given out by the Woodstock Neighborhood Association.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Throughout Saturday, August 18, families from miles around filtered into Woodstock Park and joined the relaxed throng at the third annual Woodstock Neighborhood Picnic.
It wasn’t easy tracking down Ruthann Bedenkop, the event’s organizer. She was busy coordinating dozens of volunteers to make sure the picnic ran smoothly.
This duo from the Deviant Dance group performed with grace.
“This is the third year since we revived the picnic,” Bedenkop told us. “This year we received a small neighborhood grant to support it. We were able to reach out to underrepresented groups this year. And, we were able to get special acts in this year.”
The midway emptied into the performance area when “Captain Bogg and Salty’s Band” was on stage performing their show. We saw a lot of kids – and even some adults – singing along during several of their numbers. “They’re playing here courtesy of the Woodstock Library,” said Bedenkop. “We’re thankful for the library’s participation.”
In all, organizers estimate more than 1,500 people came to the picnic.
“Not only is this a fun, family event,” Bedenkop commented, “it’s a great way for organizations come together and share information about the services they offer. It builds community.”
Our 2007 Woodstock Neighborhood Picnic photo album
More than 1,500 people visited the midway, lined with booths for community services, businesses and non-profit organizations.
Elisha Hampton scampers up the Portland Parks & Recreation climbing wall.
Enjoying a slice of Roma’s Pizza is Brookelynne Ormsbee.
The Woodstock Community Center’s Tae Kwon Do class, lead by sixth-degree master Mr. Gary Wright, demonstrates their martial arts skills.
Writing your reporter’s first name (David) in Russian is Yaroslavna Kosmina; she’s representing the IRCO International Language Bank.
All day long, folks lined up for Otto’s Sausages, here being cooked up by David Braman.
Captain Bogg meets enchanted kids after their show.
This year’s Woodstock Picnic was sponsored by Safeway, BiMart, The UPS Store, John L. Scott Realtors, Southeast Uplift, City Sanitary and THE BEE.
© 2007 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News Service
Take a look at another great East Portland farmer’s market, as it opens its doors …
Giving away cookies on opening day at the Moreland Farmer’s Market are Beatrice Matin, market manager Laura Wendel, and Elaine Harper.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Beautiful weather may have been one factor for the great turnout at the Moreland Farmer’s Market opening day on May 14. But the wide variety of vendors and upbeat feeling for the nonprofit market, as it begins its third season, may have contributed to the lively day.
About 1,850 adults – the organizers don’t include kids in their traffic count – visited 32 vendors offering plants, fresh vegetables and fruits, and a wide variety of prepared and ready-to-eat foods.
Heidi Perry, Marimba teacher at Sellwood Middle School, leads the student band in a lively number at the Moreland Farmer’s Market.
Matthew Hall sells fresh produce to Jane Crowley.
A neighborhood crossroads
Laura Wendel, the market’s manager, said she was pleased that so many folks turned out to visit the vendors and be entertained by the Sellwood Middle School Marimba Band and Jazz Band.
“We think of our market as a neighborhood crossroads,” said Wendel. “You can come out and see people, and sample a lot of terrific products. And, it’s wonderful to be able to come and get freshly grown and picked produce and fruit – and talk with the person who grew it.”
Ella Jones gets a balloon toy made for her by Alfie the Clown.
Making a crêpe is Meg Vogt, of the Village Crepery — a treat, in this case, for market customer David Monnie.
New features this year
In addition to the new and returning vendors, Wendel told us that the market will feature chef demonstrations and special food-tasting events almost every week.
“Also, the last Wednesday of every month, Judy Wallace of Wallace Books is providing block Styrofoam recycling,” noted Wendel.
Back after surviving a devastating flood at her farm and cheese factory, Meg Gregory of Black Sheep Creamery says she’s glad to be back at the Westmoreland market.
Vendor survives severe storm
Meg Gregory of Black Sheep Creamery has always been a vendor of choice at the market. But this year, market organizers wondered of she’d be back after experiencing storm damage last winter.
“We had quite a winter, but we’re back,” Gregory told us. “During what they call a ‘500 year flood’, we lost 75% of our flock. We ended up with 30 inches of water in the house – even worse; the water was up to 54 inches deep in our cheese facility. But we had 50 volunteers every weekend who helped us get back on our feet.”
“Hip Chicks Do Wine” winery’s Danna Hall pours samples of her wine at the Moreland Farmer’s Market.
More of everything good
Every Wednesday afternoon, the market offers local fresh produce, nursery stock, cheese, baked goods, flowers, prepared food, specialty items, and more. “This year, we also have specialty products like hand-made chocolates, fresh local honey, and real boiled bagels,” Wendel said. “And, there’s lots of prepared food, like freshly-made crêpes, grilled sausages, and food from Canby Asparagus Farm.”
There’s fun for the kids, too! Ruthie Jones has her face decorated by Mia Long.
Volunteers needed
Willing hands are needed to set up, operate, and take down the market. “Please call me, or see our web site,” Wendel requested.
The Moreland Farmer’s market is held on the Portland Memorial parking lot on S.E. Bybee at 14th, with free parking across the street at SE 14th and Glenwood. It’s open on Wednesdays 3:30 to 7:30 pm through Sept 24th.
For more information, see www.morelandfarmersmarket.org, or telephone (503) 341-9350.
© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
It’s more than just a Cruise-in – Parkrose business folks are getting ready for a day-long festival! See why they’re working so hard to make this event happen …
Parkrose Business Association Past President Wayne Stoll, of Century Associates, shows off the street banners about to be hung along NE Sandy Boulevard to promote the August 2 Parkrose Festival and Cruise-in.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
As we’ve been telling you – the “Rose Festival Parkrose Cruise-in” has been put to rest.
Traditionally poor early June weather led the sponsoring group, the Parkrose Business Association (PBA), to replace it with a brand-new event – the Parkrose Festival and Cruise-in on August 2.
Amy Salvador, of Century Associates, tells how flower baskets will hang from lamp poles along NE Sandy Boulevard to give the area some color – the sample basket is displayed here by the event’s originator, Gail Bash of Lucky Corp., and Mark Eves of Eves & Wade LLP.
Sprucing up Sandy Blvd.
Volunteers are asking city and agencies to spruce up NE Sandy Boulevard in preparation for the new Parkrose Festival and Cruise-in.
One project, Amy Salvador revealed at the group’s June meeting, is putting hanging baskets along Sandy Boulevard. “Many people have volunteered to help with this project,” Salvador said. “Rex Hollingsworth and his crew from Rex Heating & Air Conditioning (the title sponsor for the Festival) manufactured the brackets that will hold the plants – they will hang them. Joe Rossi is storing them until they go up; Freedom House is watering and maintaining them, and Century Associates is paying for the fertilizer and amenities.”
Other projects include street and bus stop cleaning and window washing along the boulevard.
Gordon Boorse, of Compaction & Recycling Equipment, and Marsha Lee, with Copy Express, tell the story of how the original Cruise-in program was started to support scholarships for local high school graduates.
Event sponsors scholarships
The reason the PBA started the event seven years ago was to raise a fund that would provide scholarships for graduating Parkrose High School seniors, explained Marsha Lee.
Lee introduced this year’s benefiting scholars – all of whom will be on hand to give out awards at this year’s Parkrose Festival & Cruise-in. Each of the scholars was vetted by a committee from the association consisting of herself, Mary Brown, Alison Stoll, Nancy Murphy, and Craig Mendenhall. Each scholar was awarded a $1,000 check.
Nancy Murphy gives Natasha Rose her award. Natasha will attend Mt. Hood Community College, working toward a degree in Secondary English, to become a high school English teacher.
Mary Brown presents her award to Renae Brown (no relation). Renae will attend Mt. Hood Community College, majoring in Psychology, with the goal of becoming a social worker.
Toyin Oyemaja gets her scholarship check from Mary Brown. Toyin will attend Portland State University, to major in Nursing, with the goal of becoming a Nurse Practitioner.
Alison Stoll presents a scholarship check to Tru Tran. Tru will attend Beloit College, studying Political Science and Pre-med.
Marsha Lee hands off a check to artist and scholar Cesar Pina. Cesar will attend Mt. Hood Community College, working toward his Bachelor of Fine Arts degree, with the goal of becoming an animator.
Representing the “Dollars for Scholars” program that provides a matching grant, Carley Brown awards Justin Garvin. Justin will attend Oregon State University.
Meg Kilmer, higher-education counselor at Parkrose High School, accepts the plaque listing all of the benefiting scholars – past and present. You can see that they started out by sponsoring a single scholar!
Parkrose Festival and Cruise-in is August 2
What can you expect at this event? It’s a street fair on NE Sandy Boulevard, between NE 105th and NE 112th. It’s one the largest cruise-ins in the region. And, there’s fun for the entire family! It includes:
Cruise-in:
- A wide variety of antique, specialty, and classic cars, trucks, and motorcycles
- Over 55 trophies awarded to participants – including the giant 5-foot Grand Prize trophy
- Goodie Bags for first 300 cars in the Cruise-in Show & Shine
- Parade of Cars
Food:
- Authentic Swedish Pancake Breakfast prepared by the Harmoni Club
- Parkrose Lions’ BBQ Chicken Dinner
- Bad Ass Barbeque favorites
- Boss Hawg’s Beer Garden
- PBA Chuck Wagon’s Burgers, Dogs, & Snacks
Activities:
- Kids’ Area and Activities
- Community Resource Booths
- “Blow-up Car” contests – Guess how long a car can run without oil!
- The Big Parkrose Raffle – Grand prizes are: A $1,500 barbeque center, sponsored by Rex Heating & Air Conditioning; and a set of four tires & wheels, sponsored by West Coast Bank & Bob Brown Tires. Plus, there are hundreds of other great prizes to be given away
- Fun activities within businesses along Sandy Boulevard
The Title Sponsor for this event is Rex Heating & Air Conditioning; the main sponsors include West Coast Bank and Pacific Northwest Credit Union.
© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
See why Jerry Leggett’s Peace Bubble show gave special meaning to the word “peace” at this summertime event …
Singer, songwriter, and entertainer Jerry Leggett tunes up for his Peace Bubble Café show at the Parkrose Peace Labyrinth, with the help of event organizer Camie Pugsley.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
From groundbreaking to construction to the dedication, we’ve brought you the story of the “Parkrose Peace Labyrinth” on the grounds of Parkrose High School.
“This seemed like the ideal place to hold our event, the Peace Bubble Café,” explained event organizer Camie Pugsley.
“It’s important to bring the community together, to provide a comfortable and safe place to talk about peace,” Pugsley told us. “A lot of times people think that you’re ‘way out there’ if you talk about peace. We’re creating a ‘safe space’ to hold conversations about peace without controversy.”
There are all kinds of peace, Pugsley went on. “There is internal peace, peace in the community, in the neighborhood, in our households, and peace in the world. We’re respectful of what peace means to each individual here.”
A portable water slide proved a popular attraction during this event, held on a hot August Saturday afternoon.
Invites nationwide traveling peace advocate
Pugsley said the event was centered on singer, songwriter, and entertainer Jerry Leggett. “He’s been across the country with his travel trailer, the ‘Peace Bubble’. This year he added the ‘Peace Bubble Café’, which is a metaphor for a place to gather and visit and chat about peace.”
Before the start of his show, Leggett himself spoke with us about his mission and full-time vocation.
“I think it’s a positive way to show that you love your country,” explained Leggett. “And also, that you care about peace. I believe we’ll all benefit if we talk with one another about ideas to make peace. And when I say everyone, I mean everyone: Peaceniks, soldiers, old people and young people, people of different cultures and different ideologies.”
Parked near the stage was his “Peace Bubble” – a vehicle that’s logged 80,227 and made 230 stops – as of his trip to Parkrose.
“I think that the Parkrose Peace Labyrinth is something that people can do as individuals or together,” commented Leggett. “I think this is one way of bringing some good energy to the community; people will remember this event here for a long time.”
Taking advantage of the shade are the folks awaiting the start of Leggett’s Peace Bubble Café show.
Music and interactive play
As the show began, the peace troubadour sang songs about peace, and engaged members of the audience of about 50 in interactive activities as the evening advanced.
Pugsley thanked volunteers from Parkrose Community United Church of Christ, Zion United Church of Christ, and others, for their help with the event.
Learn more about Leggett and the Peace Bubble by CLICKING HERE.
© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
Arrrr! Discover why Captain Bogg & Salty’s band continues
to delight SE Portland kids at this open-air music fest …
Jayla Boumann is turned into a perfect pirate puppy by event organizer Ann Knutson.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
The stage is set up; the PA system is in place, the instruments have been tuned. Hundreds of kids (and their parents) – dressed in bandanas and eye-patches, and carrying plastic swords – are streaming into Sellwood Park.
That could mean only one thing, as the clouds cleared on the afternoon of August 27 – an appearance by the west coast’s favorite “pirate band”, Captain Bogg & Salty, again preparing to serenade the Sellwood Library’s summer readers.
Captain Bogg warms up the audience, asking, “How many here read a book? OK, how many here have ever seen a book?”
The pirate rock band has kids up and dancing during their first number.
This event, held in partnership with the Sellwood Community Center, annually celebrates the end of the library’s summer reading program, explains event organizer Ann Knutson, full-time library assistant at the Sellwood Branch Library, as she face-paints a Pirate Puppy.
“This event brings the community together, and gives us a chance to celebrate the reading accomplishments of our kids,” explains Knutson. “And, it seems, everyone loves Captain Bogg & Salty’s Pirate Band – they’re a big supporter of our library and the summer reading program.”
Dancing to the pirate band’s beat is Mckenna Arndt, holding Hayden Floyed.
About a thousand attendees enjoy Captain Bogg & Salty’s Pirate Band, performing outdoors at Sellwood Park.
This particular branch library’s summer reading program signed up 1,500 summer readers, with ages ranging from “very young” to kids in their late teens.
“This event gives us the opportunity to hank the half a dozen volunteers here today, and the 40 teenagers who help us during the summer reading program,” Knutson adds. “They just do a great job. And, we couldn’t be successful without the support of the Sellwood Community Center staff and volunteers.”
Captain Bogg works the crowd by wandering away from the stage, looking for kids to sing along with him.
Band on the run
As the band moves swiftly from the park’s red-brick brick utility building that serves as their dressing room, First-mate McGraw – the band’s lead guitar player – pauses to speak with us.
“This is one of our favorite shows,” McGraw says. “We look forward to performing here all year long. It’s such a beautiful setting, there is unlimited space so everyone can move around, and we have such a great, and big, crowd.”
Asked if having a good audience makes a difference, McGraw replies, “We love the great energy we get back from this audience. They seem to be really into the music.”
While it is a bit odd for a pirate-themed rock-and-roll band to also be chosen as a favorite kids group, McGraw says they’re pleased to find that people of all ages enjoy their musical act; even those in libraries. “There is literate side to piracy rooted in ‘Treasure Island’. I guess we really only have one book to stand on, but it counts for something in the library!”
The expression of joy on the faces of his young fans is evident, as the good Captain croons another tune.
Dancing to the Peg-leg Tango
As the band takes the stage, a cheer ripples across the audience, now nearing about a thousand strong.
Both kids and their parents dance to the lively beat of the music, sing along with their favorites – and make the secret sign of the pirate: The hooked finger.
As the band plays, it’s difficult to tell who is enjoying the show more – the audience or the band. The band’s motto seems to be a reverse of the one embodied by the “Pirates of the Caribbean”: “Give all you can; hold nothing back!”
It wouldn’t be a complete show without the Captain’s special brand of choreography.
Pirate Festival starts September 20
As the band packs up, McGraw reminds us that the Pacific Northwest’s premier pirate festival – for families to enjoy – runs September 20 and 21.
“I know it’s out of your territory, scribe, bein’ in St. Johns in Cathedral Park under the bridge and all … but we welcome ye scallywags from the East!” he exclaims.
When we visited that event in the past, we’ve found great musical acts (yes, there are other, pirate bands, albeit inferior to Captain Bogg & Salty), lively costumed entertainers, a vast marauder’s market of pirate treasures, children’s rides and activities, and international cuisine worthy of Blackbeard himself – as, in fact, their promotional scrolls state.
Interested? To find out more, you’ll be whisked off, like a schooner under full sheetsm to their web site if you CLICK HERE.
© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
We’re glad we don’t have to travel to New York City
to enjoy this SE Portland neighborhood fun fest …
“Definitely not your average Joe” Mishkin squeaks together an out-of-this-world balloon hat (or is it a sweater?) for Brooklyn neighbor Sophia Martin.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Although this SE Portland neighborhood isn’t the largest, or best known, we realized that residents take pride in their area by the number of folks we see wearing tee-shirts emblazoned with the text: “Brooklyn, 97202” when we visited their annual Ice Cream Social at Brooklyn Park.
“I’m not sure why, but I’m happy we seem to always have beautiful weather the first Sunday in September,” noted Brooklyn Action Corps’ Marie Phillippi on September 7.
“This is our seventh year for the Ice Cream Social, and it gets better every year,” Phillippi said. “It’s a good-time event where people come together as neighbors. Most of us live within walking distance of the park.”
She pointed out that Brooklyn now has about 2,200 total residents – and more than a quarter of them attend the annual event.
Free prize drawings for the kids are always an event highlight.
Volunteer Michael Vurgwin is cooking up hot dogs and sausages for Thelma Skelton Loaves & Fishes.
Easy-going event
A primary attraction, Phillippi noted, is the ice cream bars and ice cream sandwiches they sell for 25 cents each. “We sell it for less than we pay for it; it’s our way of giving back to the neighborhood. We ran out last year, so we purchased a few more cases this time.”
Folks also lined up for big, plump red-hots and sausages that were sizzling the grill, cooked up by volunteers from the Thelma Skelton Loaves & Fishes Center on S.E. Milwaukie Avenue ant Center Street, to raise money for their Meals On Wheels program.
Family fun abounded. “Definitely not your average Joe” Mishkin twisted unusual balloon hats and wearable sculpture for kids – and performed a juggling and circus-arts show later in the afternoon. A colorful bounce-castle with slides entertained kids of all ages, and art projects gave attendees a creative outlet.
Many family groups simply lounged on the lawn, enjoying the music of Kiri Kari.
Shane and Harrison Blitch, along with Ellery Ott, enjoy their hot dog lunch, as they spend a Sunday in Brooklyn Park.
Budding musicians play together under the wings of the colorful City Repair winged canopy truck.
Happy members of the group Kiri Kari (it means “To sing with joy” in the Shona Zimbabwe language) entertain with their lively-but-mellow music.
New volunteers enliven event
“This year, we have almost all-new volunteers helping out,” said Phillippi . “Everyone pitched in; I collectively thank everyone who is helping; we simply couldn’t do it without them.”
Learn more about the Brooklyn Action Corps neighborhood association online, CLICK HERE to be taken to their web site. CLICK HERE to visit Joe Mishkin’s web site!
Vending quarter-a-bar ice cream treats are the event’s organizer, Marie Phillippi, Amanda Stucke, and Daryl Phillippi.
© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
See why you should order your tickets NOW for year’s musical at David Douglas High School, starting its run on December 4 …
All of the townspeople – especially the girls – are enamored with Conrad Birdie (Sam De Roest, playing the lead role of the ’50’s rock star about to be drafted) in their production of Bye Bye Birdie, opening for a limited run on December 4.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
For the first time ever, the timeless musical Bye Bye Birdie will take the stage at David Douglas High School (DDHS), opening on December 4.
This lavish production, played out on a double-deck stage, will feature a singing, dancing, and acting cast of 70 students – and 12 DDHS staff members (including Principal John Bier as a Shriner!) – plus the school’s full orchestra.
Adapting to adoration
“It’s pretty nice to be adored both on and off stage,” DDHS senior Sam De Roest says with a smile, about his lead role of Conrad Birdie, a 1950’s rock-and-roll star modeled after Elvis Presley.
“Birdie is a character who is kind of a jerk – making him fun to play – but he learns about love and responsibility. You can’t beat that in a role,” De Roest told us.
Here’s the story:
A hip-swiveling rock and roll superstar (modeled after Elvis Presley), named Conrad Birdie (the name is a parody of the ’50’s singer Conway Twitty), is about to be drafted into the army in 1958. Birdie’s agent wants to cash in on new song, “One Last Kiss” on live television, and give one lucky girl from his fan club a real “one last kiss” during the Ed Sullivan Show.
“In reality, Conrad Birdie is a person of questionable character,” explained the show’s director, Judy Le Coq. “The comedy comes from the disruption his visit causes both in the girl’s family – and the entire town – by his actions, and the town’s new-found fame.”
Spectacular staging
“The two-story, multi-position stage that theater arts instructor Mark Taylor and his class created is just unbelievable,” Le Coq said.
Taylor agreed that building a set of this kind is an ambitious project.
“We came up with this two-story set,” commented Taylor, “as we thought about a number in the show called ‘The Telephone Hour’ – and started designing a setting reminiscent of the ‘Hollywood Squares’ game show. Each cubbyhole will accommodate rapid scene changes.”
Conrad Birdie (De Roest) is coached on his performance by the show’s director, Judy Le Coq.
Show opens December 4
Bye Bye Birdie opens on December 4 at 7:30 p.m.
Then, the show runs in the evenings at 7:30 p.m. on December 5, 6 11, 12 and 13. And, there’s a special Sunday Matinee show on December 7 at 2:30 p.m.
All performances are at the Howard Horner Performing Arts Center, 1400 SE 130th Ave., between SE Stark and SE Division Streets.
We understand that reserved seating sales are going at a brisk pace; we recommend you call for reservations (unpaid reservations are held only for 24 hours), or buy your tickets today. You can pick up your paid tickets at the theater’s box office in advance or before the show.
Tickets are $10 for adults; seniors/students are $7. Call to make your reservations at DDHS Box Office at (503) 261-8270.
© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
