**3-28-10–Public Playhouse had just announced its new new season: The three plays are Stones in His Pockets by Marie Jones presented 9/10-10/2 (“A Hilarious Multi-award winner which ran for four years in London’s West End”); The Shape of Things by Neil LaBute presented 1/14/11-2/5/11 (“a modern day retelling of the fall of man…made into a film in 2003, starring Paul Rudd and Rachel Weisz”); and the famous Same Time, Next Year, by Bernard Slade presented 4/8/11-4/30/11 (“twenty-five years of manner, morals and attitudes are hilariously enacted by the lovers, Doris and George.”)**Several great discount packages are available this season. For all the details, go to   www.publicplayhouse.org!

**3-25-10–Many of you already know and enjoy Linda Smith, whose “Notes of Celebration” piano music sets such a lovely mood for Dinner, Birthday parties and other entertainment in retirement facilities. Recently I listened to some samples from Linda’s CD, and I am struck by how versatile her style is–while she brings her listeners back in time to Sinatra, Ellington, Artie Shaw, and Benny Goodman, her repertoire also includes lovely classical pieces. See these two testimonials:” Linda performs with a sensitivity of style that evokes memories of youth and tears of joy to the eyes of her aged audience . . . her music helps tired and weary bodies to feel young again . . .”- S. R., Retired “We put my mother in memory care…One thing that calms her and she loves, is listening to your CD…” – N Stevens

Read more about “Notes of Celebration–Linda Smith” in the Music, Music-Classical, and Holidays categories, and arrange for Linda to perform at your facility or event!

**3-24-10–Amid all our musical offerings you will find A Valentine Bridge Trio, who are very popular performers at senior facilities in the area!This group plays pop tunes from the 20’s through the 60’s, including Emmy/Oscar/Grammy winners, and #1 Hits. They sing the music of famous composers like Irving Berlin, Lerner/Loewe, and Dorothy Fields, and tunes that were performed by big name entertainers such as Al Jolson, Louis Armstrong, Bing Crosby, Frank Sinatra, Nat Cole and Tony Bennett! If you don’t already know them, please check out A Valentine Bridge’s listing, and arrange for them to play at your facility or event.

**3-23-10–The South Riverside Kiwanis are listed on ElderAudience for their Musical Revue. Look at what Lisa Oetken from Mary’s Woods at Marylhurst wrote to me about their recent performance: “What a treat to have the South Riverside Kiwanis Review perform for our monthly birthday party! They provided top-notch entertainment for over an hour and kept our residents completely engaged and occasionally singing along! The costumes – changed for every number – were dazzling and each skillfully selected song inspired memories. With the good work they do raising awareness and funds for Doernbecher Hospital and handicapped kids, this group is truly a gift to the Portland area! I highly recommend South Riverside Kiwanis Review.” Read about South Riverside Kiwanis under the Music or Variety Shows category!

**3-22-10–I recently heard from Dawn Weiss, Flutist, who is listed in our Music-Classical category. She is very busy, having completed a new CD called Trillium Winds, and planning for an upcoming recital in Los Angeles where she performs two world premiere pieces! On April 10 Dawn plays at the Greater Portland Flute Society Flute Fair, and in August she’ll participate with the Flute Alliance in an attempt to capture a new Guiness World Record for Largest Flute Choir performance in one location!! (I will send along the details on this in a future email!) Dawn is former Principal Flutist with the Oregon Symphony, and she is available to come to your facility for Duo or Trio concerts with Piano, Guitar, Oboe, Cello, or Voice or even with a Peruvian dancer/percussionist.These programs can be strictly classical, or include a wider range of styles. Dawn also is a speaker on the Career of an Orchestral Musician, and she coaches amateur flutists as well. So check out Dawn Weiss’ listing and contact her!

**3-22-10–Accordion runs in her family! Diane Hagen is one of the Accordionists listed on ElderAudience’s Music category. She is available to travel to your facility or event as a soloist, or with Sax and Drummer. Diane says “”Bring your requests and get ready to sing, dance and have fun!” Daughter of renowned accordion teacher Eileen Hagen, Diane got her start at age two and a half and was playing on TV at age 5! From there she went on to competitions, entertaining at restaurants, recording CD’s and concert tours. She plays all styles, including Polkas, waltz, schottisches, OldFavorites, Sing-alongs, Italian, Swiss, Scandinavian and German. Have Diane Hagen play for you!

**3-22-10–Monica Barber is one of our longtime listed entertainers, focusing on bell choir and rhythm band activities! Residents enjoy all the old favorite tunes together from the 30’s, 40’s, 50’s, patriotic, gospel, fabulous Broadway musicals and many more. There’s lots of audience participation, including “Name-that-Tune” and sing along, which bring back great memories. I can attest personally to Monica’s popularity, as both of my parents, (now deceased)who were in very frail health, always looked forward to Monica’s visits at their assisted living residence! Monica says “I am lucky enough to do what I love for over 14 years, that is to promote happiness with music that spans the decades.” See Monica Barber’s listing under Music and have her come to your facility!

**3-22-10– Reminder that Portland Youth Philharmonic is offering a Special Ticket price to ElderAudience for groups of seniors wanting to attend the Saturday, May 1 concert ( at 7:30 pm,  Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall downtown Portland). Groups of 10 or more get the ElderAudience price of $9 per ticket (plus one $3.50 handling fee per order)when they call the PYP office at (503)223-5939 between 9-5 M-F. Be sure to mention ElderAudience to get this price! More information about the Portland Youth Philharmonic at http://www.portlandyouthphil.org/concert/index.php

**3-22-10–ALSO, remember that Portland Youth Philharmonic are performing at FREE Mother’s Day concert at Mary’s Woods in Lake Oswego! Sunday, May 9, 4pm in the Chapel. More info call Janice McGuire, (503)675-2473.

**3-21-10–Remember that Thursdays are “Pay what you will” performances at Theatre Vertigo! The play God’s Ear is being presented from April 2-May 1, Thursdays-Saturdays at 8pm, at 3430 SE Belmont in Portland. About the play: When Mel and Ted lose their son in a tragic accident, their grief propels them into a fantastical world where the Tooth Fairy sings and GI Joe offers family counseling. It’s a lyrical journey of love, loss and laughter. God’s Ear marks the debut of Jenny Schwartz, “an indelibly clever playwright, possessed of linguistic playfulness and a lively sense of rhythm.” (The Village Voice) Read more about Theatre Vertigo on ElderAudience’s Theatre category, or go to www.theatrevertigo.org!

**3-21-10–FANTASTIC ELDERAUDIENCE DISCOUNT for classical music lovers! Thanks to ElderAudience listed  Portland Baroque Orchestra, I am delighted to share this opportunity for HALF-PRICE tickets to the Sunday May 16 Matinee (4pm) performance of Four Orchestral Suites by JS Bach, featuring Gonzalo Ruiz who has been named “One of the world’s most sought after soloists on period oboes.” This concert takes place at downtown Portland’s First Baptist Church, 808 SW 11th (SW 12th and Taylor). Normal senior price is $18, but the special ElderAudience price is only $9! To get these tickets, you must either purchase them online at www.pbo.org or by phone at (503)222-6000. ***When prompted, use Coupon code ELDERA. Please spread the word to any seniors who might be interested!

**3-21-10–NEW LISTING! I encourage you to watch for Keith Taylor when he comes to town! Keith is a specialist in Ragtime and early American piano, as well as a composer. He learned piano as a young boy and while in high school he even played piano in the “Red light” district of Ketchikan, Alaska! Keith is classically trained, did graduate music studies in Paris, and currently lives rural Oregon near Baker City, where he teaches at Blue Mountain Community College. Keith tours frequently throughout our area to perform: Oregon in April, June, and December; and Washington in October. So no matter where you are, do  contact Keith to play at your facility or event. And look at this: If you wish, Keith offers to bring along old silent films and a projector, and he’ll play ragtime accompaniment to the old movies! Check out  Keith Taylor’s listing in ElderAudience’s Music category.

**3-18-10–You may notice a new Ad posted on the ElderAudience site:  Greg Clarke is one of the ElderAudience “pioneers”. I first listened to his infectious music at the Hillsdale Farmers’ Market in 2008, and just had to approach him about participating on ElderAudience! Greg plays mandolin, banjo, fiddle and guitar, and also sings. Greg’s own website has a section for Elders, where you can read testimonials from other activity directors. You can also listen to his amazing picking and fiddling! I encourage you to click on his ad and learn more about Greg Clarke’s  programs for seniors. He loves to play at facilities and events!

**3-18-10–I just listened to a sample of Cowboy Kevin’s music on Kevin Neil’s myspace page, and I have to say his smooth voice and expert guitar playing are a delight. I heard him do a classic rendition of the “Yellow Rose of Texas”! Kevin has been entertaining seniors for the past fourteen years as the top rated act on the cruise ships Queen of the West, Empress of the North, and the Columbia Queen. He is now available for bookings at your facility or event! Look for Cowboy Kevin’s listing in the Music and Novelty categories!

**3-18-10–NEW LISTING! Alton Chung presents  storytelling programs that are unique and custom designed for his audience. He  specializes in telling Asian Folktales, Hawaiian Legends, Ghost Stories, Tales of Christmas, stories of the Japanese American Experience of WWII, and humorous personal stories. Read more about Alton in the Storytellers category and arrange for him to do a program at your facility!

**3-15-10–NEW LISTING! Edward Aquirre  is a  solo concert pianist and composer who plays Standards, Ballads, Movie themes, and Inspirational music– No blues, jazz or rock and roll.  He is available from Southern Oregon to Portland. Marianne, activity director at Twin Creeks in Central Point told me Edward’s playing is LOVED by her residents, and that in fact they prefer him to two other pianists they have had! She said Ed’s piano accompaniments at dinner make for a special occasion, and also that he is very dependable and prompt. Check out Edward Aguirre’s listing under Music and call him to have a performance!

**3-15-10–NEW LISTING! Jim Dalton presents Easy-to-learn 8-step Tai Chi Form. “Discover the power of simple Tai Chi movements, designed to help seniors improve balance, body awareness and stamina. Tai Chi sharpens all around mindfulness to help prevent falls and maintain health.” Jim will travel to facilities on the West side of Portland. Days and Weekends. NO CHARGE for initial demonstration! See Jim Dalton’s listing under the Education/Instruction category.

**3-12-10–NEW LISTING! Paul Sanchez performs American folk music, singing and accompanying himself on the guitar and banjo (and piano, if your venue has one). He has more than thirty years experience and even released 4 CD’s as a songwriter. Paul encourages audience participation, and he says “Everyone is guaranteed a good time when I play!” Check out Paul Sanchez’ listing under our Music category and arrange for him to entertain at your facility or event!

**3-9-10–Pride & Prejudice, Jane Austen’s classic novel of manners and marriage, comes to life in Magenta Theater’s new adaptation, directed by Dorinda Toner. Elizabeth Bennet is a witty young woman content to enjoy country life with her family and their attentive neighbors in Hertfordshire, England. Things change, though, with the arrival of Mr. Bingley and his aloof friend, Mr. Darcy. A series of misunderstandings and subtle flirtations characterize this beloved story. Pride is wounded and prejudices are dissolved, as Elizabeth (and the audience) learns that first impressions aren’t always right, marriage isn’t always about love and sometimes family is more important than it seems. DATES AND TIMES April 16, 17, 22, 23, 24, 28, 29, 30 & May 1 at 7:00 pm & April 17 & 24 at 2:00 pm . LOCATION The Magenta Theater – 606 Main St., Vancouver, Wa. Reservations recommended. Limited seats may be available at door for slightly higher price. Ask about available discounts. Tickets available Online at www.magentatheater.com, or call (360)  635-4358.

**3/9/10–Are you planning a party? ElderAudience-listed Craig Brown is your guy! He is DJ, Party Host & Entertainer with 21 years experience. Working with your theme, Craig  provides props and costumes. He’ll help you create an event with music, line dances and table activities. Residents and staff participate.You can do game shows, karoake, etc. Think of Craig for great anniversary, birthday,and New Years celebrations! read about Craig in our DJ/Party Host category or go to his website at www.hifidjs.com

**3-5-10–ElderAudience Discount available on tickets for New Century Players Dinner Theatre presentation of DEADLY DANCING! Make it a memorable night out, with DEADLY DANCING, a murder mystery dinner theatre show at Weatherford’s Restaurant in Oregon City, on April 16, 17, 23, 24; and May 7, 14 at 6:30 PM. SPECIAL ELDERAUDIENCE SENIOR DISCOUNT,: GO TO  www.newcenturyplayers.org and use Ticket Turtle to purchase tickets. Insert code letsdance which will give $5 off each ticket! Also, for groups of 10+, a free ticket will be generated for the group’s driver! (Buy 11 tickets, and one of them will be free!) Note: The Weatherford Ballroom unfortunately is not ADA accessible, as there are stairs. Discounts do not apply for the 5/22 fundraiser performance as Milwaukie Senior Center.

**3-15-10–Have you visited the Clark County Historical Museum lately? This cool place is housed in Vancouver’s 1909 Carnegie Library. The museum features changing exhibits and a variety of public programs related to Clark County History. Its collection ranges from 1200 A.D.-1980’s. Right now, and through April 30, check out “Expressions of Community: Women Embracing Art”,  an exhibit including paintings, beadwork, quilts, sculpture, basketry and other media! Clark County Historical Museum is located at 1511 Main St in Vancouver, Washington. Hours are 11-4,  Tues-Sat. Admission for seniors is only $3! Phone: 360-993-5679 www.cchmuseum.org

**3-3-10–NEW LISTING! Flutando Flute Quartet is a group of four women who love playing the flute, and whose repertoire spans classical, jazz, folk, Celtic, gospel, easy listening, modern, and holiday styles! Flutando has performed at the Tryon Creek State Park Natural Cycles events and the Oregon Symphony Prelude Performances at the Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall each year since 2005, and they volunteer their time to share their music with travelers at the Portland Airport at least two times a year. Other venues have included private parties and hospitals, nursing, and retirement facilities. Invite Flutando to entertain at your facility or event! They are available weeknights and weekends, and they do not charge–though donations are gratefully accepted. Read about Flutando in the Music, Music-Classical, or Holidays categories on ElderAudience!

**3-3-10–Are you looking for something unique? New Century Players, a theatre group based in Oregon City, wants you to know that they can bring their murder mystery shows to your facility or event!With your input, they will create a “personalized interactive murder mystery”–You provide them information about your guests, and they devise an original “who-dunnit” plot line that will keep everyone guessing right until the end!Perfect for groups of 20+.  CALL New Century Players at (503)367-2620 ,check out their website at www.newcenturyplayers.org, or e mail: newcenturyplayers@gmail.com

** 2-28-10–NEW LISTING! Swan Island Dahlias–A must see for the dahlia lover, or if you just love flowers. Come Visit! The Dahlia Festival is the last weekend in August and Labor Day Weekend.FREE ADMISSION! Over 350 floral arrangements of dahlias in indoor display rooms. These displays vary in size from teacup to floor-to-ceiling extravaganzas! This is the largest display put on by one grower anywhere in the United States. There are floral arranging and culture  demonstrations twice daily during the festival. **If you can’t make the festival stroll through over 40 acres of dahlias in bloom August through September, 7 days a week, 8am to 6pm. Handicapped accessible, plenty of picnic tables, and food booths and refreshments available during the festival! Location: 995 Northwest 22nd Avenue, in Canby, Oregon. Phone: (800)410-6540 Website: www.dahlias.com

**2-28-10–MAKE PLANS FOR MOTHERS DAY! FREE AND OPEN TO THE PUBLIC–The Portland Youth Philharmonic is playing a special concert in the Chapel at Mary’s Woods in Lake Oswego on Mother’s Day, Sunday, May 9 at 4pm. Location is 17400 Holy names Drive, Lake Oswego, Oregon. For more information please call Janice McGuire at (503)675-2473

**2-21-10–This afternoon I headed over to Rose Schnitzer Manor in SW Portland to see and hear Matt Neill, who brought his “Live Calliope Entertainment” to the Manor’s residents. It was a huge hit!! Donning a straw hat, Matt performed song after song from a list of lively favorites (even whistling during some), took multiple requests and answered audience questions. Residents sang along to lots of the familiar tunes, and one woman got up and danced to several numbers! Be sure to check out Matt Neil’s listing in the  Music category on ElderAudience and plan to have him and his calliope at your facility or event!

**2-19-10–I had a marvelous meal with friends last weekend at Weatherford’s Grand Lodge restaurant in historic Oregon City. Weatherford’s is listed in ElderAudience’s Senior-friendly restaurant category. This classically beautiful place is open for lunch, dinner,and Sunday brunch (senior prices!) and features a large menu including soups, salads, sandwiches, main dishes, cocktails, and absolutely splendid desserts(of course I indulged). Learn more at Weatherford’s listing in our restaurant category or go to www.weatherfordsgrandlodge.com.

**2-19-10–As you plan for musical entertainment, consider ElderAudience-listed Tego Burke! Tego is a long time musician who plays guitar and sings a wide variety of music. He can also provide a “One Man Band” with recorded music.Although he plays at restaurants, fraternal organizations and private parties,Tego especially enjoys entertaining seniors! An activity director in the Vancouver area has recommended him to me.Tego Burke is available to travel beyond the Portland/Vancouver area, so if you are down in the Valley, over at the coast, or in central Oregon, keep him in mind! Check out Tego’s listing under the Music category.

**2-17-10–New Listing! Deborah Katz, violinist–Classically trained, Deborah began playing viola at the age of 9. Known for playing with passion, emotion, and creativity, she plays all styles of music. In addition to being a soloist, Deborah plays and sings with rockabilly band The SlimJims and singer/songwriter KC Craine. “Plays with incredible emotion…” “Deborah made my wedding more special with her beautiful playing.” …”She is a gifted violinist.” Contact Deborah to play at your facility or event–solo or with a band! Read about her under the Music or Music-Classical categories on ElderAudience.

**2-12-10–Ready for some outstanding and beautiful classical music, perhaps to accompany a special dinner or anniversary celebration? Check out Shera Sinell, Harpist. You’ll find her under either the Music or Music-Classical categories on ElderAudience! While you are at those categories, also read about Dawn Weiss, Flutist!

**2-12-10–Check out an interesting new website for our region, with ideas on finances, health, travel, and events! It is called 50plusnorthwest, and you can find it at: http://50plusnorthwest.com. I have also put a link to this under a new category titled “Interesting Links”

**2-6-10–Make plans now to attend the Northwest Premiere of a one-woman play, ROSE, starring Wendy Westerwelle! “Rose is a survivor. Her remarkable life started in a tiny Russian village, then to the Warsaw ghetto, escaping to America on a ship called The Exodus where her journey takes her from the boardwalks of Atlantic City, salsa flavored nights in Miami Beach and then to the Arizona Canyons…” My personal pitch: If you haven’t watched Wendy Westerwelle perform in Portland before, GO! She is an amazingly moving and awesome actor!! April 1-25 at Coho Theater Building, 2257 NW Raleigh in Portland Tickets $15-$25; Group rates available! Thursdays 7:30; Friday/Saturday 8; Sunday 2 pm. Reserved seats! Call (503)239-5919 or go to www.tripro.org

**2-6-10–New listing! Galynne Davis is a long-time entertainer known throughout Oregon and Washington for playing “family friendly” music at farmers markets, wineries, breweries, community centers, etc. Galynne sings and plays guitar– Jazz, Light Listening and some originals! Read more about Galynne Davis in the Music category, and have her perform at your facility or event!

**2-6-10 New Listing! Monte Watters, Pianist. Monte plays an amazing variety and styles of music from the 1930’s to today: Swing, pop, standards, blues, country, romantic, easy listening, gospel, and holidays! He has even recorded two CD’s, “Autumn Leaves” and “Christmas Memories”. He travels widely,for all occasions and special events, so contact him to arrange for a performance! Read more about Monte Watters under the Music or Holidays categories on ElderAudience.

**2-5-10–New Listing! Watercolor Classes, Fun and Easy with Irilla Swanson. Time to pull out the paints and brushes–Irilla Swanson has been teaching and painting at retirement communities since 2001. She is a very accomplished painter with a background in film and television, and she is also a dancer! Irilla loves to teach watercolors, and in her classes she says, “we make great friends, as we visit, paint and laugh a lot! We’ll create paintings and holiday cards for family and friends.” Her artwork has been displayed in galleries and she was even featured on OPB’s ARTBEAT show! Please check out “Watercolor Classes” under the Education/Instruction, Holidays and Hobbyist categories on ElderAudience, and arrange to have Irilla come to your facility!

**2-5-10–Something quite different! Karate Demonstrations by the students at Westside Martial Arts. A mixed group of kids/adults will travel to facilities on the west side of Portland to demonstrate Karate, Martial Arts, Self-Defense, and Fitness moves. Some of your residents may even want to get in on the action! They are offering to show you what they are up to on Days and Weekends, and they are FREE. Read more about Karate Demonstrations by Westside Martial Arts under ElderAudience’s Education/Instruction, Hobbiests or Miscellaneous categories, and contact them for a program!

**2-2-10–Take another look at the Speakers category on ElderAudience! One of the listings is for Dr. Leland Gilsen, who for 24 years was the official Archaeologist for the State of Oregon. Dr. Gilsen can bring his Traveling Museum of Oregon Prehistory to your facility, through a display of replica and reproduction artifacts of Oregon cultures going back 14,000 years! NO CHARGE, BUT A DONATION IS APPRECIATED.

**2-2-10–Bobbye Brown has long been in demand as an engaging speaker on several topics: History of Beads (she’s known to some as “the Bead Lady”); Civil Rights; and History of Slavery. NO CHARGE, BUT DONATION APPRECIATED FOR TRANSPORTATION. Read more about Bobbye Brown in the Speakers category on ElderAudience!

**1-26-10–If you aren’t familiar with Art Goodman/One Man Band, you should check him out under the Music or Holidays categories! Art says. “As a performer and caregiver, my goal is to connect with clients to promote a feeling of goodwill and happiness.” Art’s repertory includes jazz classics, rhythm and blues, 50’s-70’s rock, folk, and pop, gospel and traditional favorites, show tunes and ballads, childrens songs, holiday, patriotic, and Spanish-language songs. He plays his live acoustic guitar or plugged-in guitar/keyboard (using foot pedals to operate the keyboard functions: a show in itself!) and he sings. He does active roaming with the simple guitar, or uses the one-man-band set-up for a fuller danceable sound. Sometimes Art makes someone’s day by featuring a senior resident and accompanying that person–a few times he’s been astonished at the musical abilities of the resident! Art has a fairly regular schedule of performances in many facilities, including Alzheimer’s units and rehabilitation centers. He feels he has made some amazing connections with otherwise unresponsive patients. But he also enjoys playing for challenging, alert, and demanding non-disabled audiences. In addition, Art entertains at hospitals, private parties, and even staff parties at senior facilities. Read more about Art on ElderAudience and arrange for him to entertain at your facility or event!

**1-26-10–Newly Listed! Tom Robinson, Piano and vocals.Tom sings and plays jazz and pop music from the 50’s-70’s, and songs made famous by Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett, and others. Tom is eager to provide entertainment for you! Tom will travel to your facility and perform for NO CHARGE. You can hear samples at his website, www.TheSongsYouLove.com. See Tom’s listing in the Music category on ElderAudience.

**1-26-10–Newly listed! Richard Royce, a master on the guitar. Here’s what he’d like you to know about himself:”If you want an aesthetic, fun, interesting hour with lots of variety call Richard Royce on the Guitar at (503) 434-5350. In addition to performing powerful Flamenco standards and originals, he will delight you with the most romantic piece ever written for guitar, songs your folks sang when they were dating, Bing Crosby favorites, lots of requested songs like Shenendoah and Amazing Grace and of course some good old Jazzy N’Orlins Blues!” Richard is McMinnville based, but he travels widely! Learn more about him in the Music category on ElderAudience, and arrange for him to perform at your facility or event.

**1-23-10–Don’t forget about Portland Tap Connection!This adult performing tap ensemble provides lively entertainment – predominantly Broadway style tap dancing. Multiple costume changes and a variety of toe-tapping music are highlights of their entertainment. Established over 20 years ago, the Portland Tap Connection is available for day or evening shows at your location. Read more about them under the Dancers category on ElderAudience!

**1-23-10 It can be a bit overwhelming to look through all the listings in our Music category, but when you have a moment, click on Matthew Kern! The Oregonian has praised Matthew’s piano music as “wildly romantic” and “wonderful”.Matthew began playing the piano at the age of three. You may well have heard him play, as he served as the house pianist for the Nordstrom in downtown Portland for nearly ten years! He has performed at numerous local venues including Pazzo Ristorante, the Multnomah Athletic Club, the Waverly Club, the Racket Club, the Hilton Portland, Portland’s White House, the Heathman, Benson, and Governor Hotels, the Portland City Grill, and many, many more.Matthew was raised on the music of Frank Sinatra, Nat King Cole, Ella Fitzgerald and jazz greats such as Louis Armstrong. He has also released 2 CD’s. Contact Matthew Kern for a program at your facility or event!

**1-23-10–New Listing! The Royal Scottish Country Dance Society, SW Washington state branch has just joined ElderAudience. This group, which performs at senior facilities, recently became a full fledged Branch of the Royal Scottish Country Dance Society based in Edinburgh, Scotland! The typical Scottish Country dance consists of a group of “formations” that are put together in an interesting way. After one learns the basic formations, it is possible to do hundreds of dances. There are over 6000 registered dances, some dating from the 1600’s, and enthusiasts are continually creating new dances. In addition to dancing for you, The Royal Scottish Country Dancers offer opportunities to participate, and even have a wheelchair dance! Read more about this group in ElderAudience’s Dancing category, and contact them to come to your facility!

**1-22-10–New listing!John Lazzari is a beloved regular at two area senior centers and plays horn/keyboard with 5 local large bands, and you should get to know him. He has MANY years experience as a versatile musician: He was Principal Clarinet in the Ashland Symphony, Director of Band at Humboldt State University, played in the Herb Miller Big Band, and was even an organist in a 3 ring circus! And these were just a few of his posts! John performs solo, in combos, and in big bands. In addition to vocals, he plays multiple instruments: Reeds, brass, keyboards, guitar, harp,and in all styles! Kelly Lund at the Luepke Center in Vancouver says “I encourage you to pass the word along–John Lazzari is your music man.” Check out John’s listing under Music on ElderAudience and contact him to play at your facility or event!

**1-20-10–I’d like to give a shout out to the Prime Timers Dining Club, an 11 year old organization devoted to singles over 50 in Portland’s East side/Gresham/Sandy area who enjoy dining out and making new friendships! If you know of active seniors who like to meet others for dinners, movies, bowling, or cards, please let them know to check out Prime Timers Dining at www.PrimeTimersDiningClub.com or call Pat at (503)936-5861.

**1-19-10–Northwest Senior Theatre has just announced its new spring variety show: “Overture!Curtain!Lights!”. Should be a fun event with lots of singing, dancing,skits and laughs. Dates are Wed May 19 through Sat May 22, at 2pm for all shows.Location Alpenrose Dairy Opera House in SW Portland. Donation of $5 appreciated. Learn more at NW Senior Theatre’s listing in ElderAudience’s Theatre category, or go to their own website at: www.nwseniortheatre.org

**1-18-10–New listing! In a “one-man-show” Charles M. Province recreates an old-time Radio Show populated with impressions of various celebrities and entertainers from the “good old days.” Shows include dramatic readings, soap operas, musical numbers, original commercials, and jokes from the bygone era of live radio! Charles is also available to bring “W.C.Fields” to your special engagement! (see pic on his website, http://pattonhq.com/cmprovince.html ) Read about Charles M. Province under ElderAudience’s Variety Shows, Novelty, Theatre or Miscellaneous categories, and arrange for him to perform at your facility!

**1-17-10–If you are interested in being able to converse on line with other activity directors, to get ideas or collaborate, join the new Yahoo group!! The original address I created is really long, but a friendly ElderAudience reader advised me to go to tinyurl.com where I was able to get an easier address for folks to use, and that links to the actual Yahoo group (clearly, I am tech challenged!) The shorter address to join the new PortlandVancouverSeniorActivitiesDirectors group is: http://tinyurl.com/yg3rjby I think this works! let me know if not:)

**1-15-10–New Listing! Magician Steve Peterson has been performing his Minor Miracles Magic show for over 50 years, appearing at fairs, corporate events and private parties.He offers strolling close up magic as well as stage shows. Steve is Corvallis-based, but is is available to travel Portland to Eugene. Read more about Steve’s Minor Miracles Magic show under the Novelty and Variety Shows categories on ElderAudience, and arrange for him to entertain at your next event!

**1-14-10–Just listed! A fascinating place to visit: The Mission Mill Museum in Salem. The Mission Mill Museum is devoted to preserving and sharing the history of the 1834 Oregon Methodist Mission, 1843 Oregon Pioneers and the Thomas Kay Woolen Mill, which produced wool products from 1889 to 1962.The Mill has been designated an American Treasure by the National Park Service! See preserved Mission houses, an Oregon Trail settler’s house, a historic church and the structures, equipment, and original water-powered turbine of the Thomas Kay Woolen Mill with related artifacts. Museum exhibits change frequently–going on now and into May, see the “Facing Statehood” Exhibition, which celebrates Oregon’s sesquicentennial, and interprets the pre-statehood years of Oregon. Lots of other events and activities are described on the Museum’s website at www.missionmill.org. Please check out Museum Mill Museum’s listing under Museums or Outings and arrange a trip! There is also a museum store as well as a cafe on site for tea or lunch.

**1-14-10–Anyone out there interested in participating in a Beanbag baseball competition with other senior living communities? Michele from Courtyard Village in Raleigh Hills has asked me to spread the word: “Do you have a bean bag baseball team? Would you like to play teams from other communities? Hi, I’m Michele, the activity director from Courtyard Village-Raleigh Hills. We have a team which would love to play others. If there is enough interest, would people be interested in a “league” for the summer? We would have to come up with general rules for playing one another.Please join thePortlandVancouverSeniorActivitiesDirectors group on yahoo at http://groups.yahoo.com/group/PortlandVancouverSeniorActivitiesDirectors

We can set up a playing schedule or we could keep it “loose” (independently call each other for a game).Hope to chat with some of you on the yahoo group about this! Thanks.”

**1-11-10–ElderAudience is growing to include the Mid-Willamette Valley! Please spread the word to senior facilities in Salem, Corvallis and Albany that ElderAudience is also a resource for them! In the coming weeks, new listings will appear for entertainers and others in the Mid-Valley area. Also, some of those already listed on ElderAudience are available to travel to the Mid-Valley. If you know of performers, speakers or destinations that might be suitable, please send them my way, by having them contact me at info@elderaudience.com. Thanks!

**1-11-10–Now is the time to look ahead to St. Patrick’s Day! A fine way to celebrate it is with Beltaine, the group featuring hammered dulcimers, guitar, flute, marimbula and vocals. The Beltaine trio plays Celtic and traditional music from around the world, and they keep it lively with spritely tunes, stories and jokes! Beltaine performs throughout the Northwest at many events. Check out their listing under Music or Holidays and arrange a St. Paddy’s Day celebration at your facility!Their own website is www.beltainemusic.com.

**1-10-10–Have The Westernaires danced for you? This group of women line dancers has been performing at senior facilities for several years. They can dance on rugs, and need a 20×15 space to spread out. Betty Merrill, their leader asked me to relay to you that “a one hour show is only $50, and if you are tired of singers and musical instruments this might be for you!” Please see The Westernaires listing under the Dance category. You can reach Betty at 503-227-2003 or via e mail at bettymer@comcast.net

**1-09-10–New listing! Portland Lace Society is a group of lacemakers from the greater Portland/Vancouver area, who are available to travel to your facility for demonstrations of their lacemaking. They want you to know that this “dying art” is alive and well. The group members are volunteers, so there is no charge for their visits. Please read their listing under the Education/Instruction, Speakers, or Hobbyists categories (and see the gorgeous picture).

**1-07-10–Just listed! Some of you may already know Elmira Joseph, a professional pianist and teacher with 30 years experience including MANY performances for seniors at local assisted living, retirement facilities and hospitals. Although Elmira specializes in classical music, she is very versatile–she also plays popular tunes, music from old movies, romantic “candlelight” music, as well as tunes for holidays such as Christmas and Thanksgiving. Check out Elmira’s listing under the Music, Music-Classical, or Holidays categories and contact her to entertain at your facility or event!

**1-06-10–There is quite a variety in the Variety Shows category on ElderAudience! Eleven very different listings, at this point–please check them out if you are looking for something out of the ordinary!

**1/06/10–Reminder about another musical group: In Cahoots, which is a fun, energetic women’s quartet that loves sharing their four-part a capella harmonies “with whomever they can persuade to listen!” Kristine, Becky, Donna and Suzy have a repertoire that includes Broadway, gospel, holidays, and American standards from the 20’s up to today, often in classic barbershop style. Performances can range in length from a couple of songs–for that special birthday or anniversary–to an hour (including an oldies sing-along) depending on your needs! Read about In Cahoots in ElderAudience’s Music and Holidays categories, and arrange for them to entertain at your facility or event.

**1-06-10–It’s been way too long since I mentioned the ElderAudience-listed Valentine Bridge Trio, who perform vocals with guitar that will bring back so many memories!! They play tunes from the 20’s to the 60’s, including those by Irving Berlin and Lerner/Loewe, as well as songs made famous by Al Jolson, Louis Armstrong, Bing Crosby, Frank Sinatra, Nat Cole and Tony Bennett. How they describe themselves: “We tend to favor romantic ballads that have a nice lifting musical bridge. That is how we got our name, Valentine Bridge.” Please read more about Valentine Bridge Trio in our Music category, and contact them about a program at your facility or event!

**1-05-10–New Yahoo group starting for Senior Activities Directors in the Portland/Vancouver area! Michele at Courtyard Village contacted me with a question, and we both thought such a group would be useful. I think a similar one was started in 2006 (PDX-ADFS) but it appears to be inactive. To join, go to this address on the web: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/PortlandVancouverSeniorActivitiesDirectors/ (sorry, it’s long , I know)This group is a central place for activities directors to exchange ideas and collaborate on activities of mutual interest. Less formal groups (or even other official ones) may exist already. Feel free to use this forum in addition if you like! May this Yahoo group serve as a tool for activities directors to strengthen their communication with peers at other facilities and devise exciting and fun ways to work together for the benefit of seniors!

**1-03-10–Everyone enjoys a great story, and Master Storyteller Anne Rutherford has been performing a lively program of stories, songs and poems for seniors for ten years! Please read about her and our other storytellers in the Storytellers category on ElderAudience (where else?) or go to her website at www.annerutherford.com.

**1-02-10–Finally, a Magician! ElderAudience has just listed Brian Proctor, a very popular “close-up, strolling sleight of hand magician” who loves performing at local facilities and events. Brian has been practicing the art of magic for 18 years. Check him out under the Novelty or Miscellaneous categories on ElderAudience!

**12-28-09–Hope your Holidays have been peaceful and joyful! We close out the year with yet another new theater listing, and this one is in Vancouver! Magenta Theater produces 4 general audience shows of family entertainment each year, along with one more adult content thriller/suspense production each October.See more about Magenta Theater in ElderAudience’s Theatre and Outings categories, or check out their website at http://www.magentatheater.com

**12-20-09–New listing! Richard Guins is a piano stylist of intriguing sounds and intricate melodies of the 40’s through the 70’s. His repertoire (approximately 500 songs!) includes easy listening, rumba, waltzes, sambas, tango, classical and spiritual music. Richard has enjoyed entertaining for many years at numerous senior facilities, as well as at hotels, stores and restaurants. Check out Richard Guins’ listing under Music and Holidays categories, or call him at (503)771-8313.

**12-06-09 Have these young dancers entertain your residents! Lake Oswego Academy of Dance has a Performing Company which consists of exceptionally talented dancers ages 7 to 17, training at an advanced level of Jazz, Ballet, and Tap. For over 18 years, the Company dancers have performed overseas in international dance festivals and in Disneyland for their 50th Anniversary Celebration. Each year, their dancers successfully compete in respected dance competitions. They enjoy performing at many local festivals, charity events, retirement communities and more! Learn more about Lake Owego Academy of Dance in ElderAudience’s Dance category, or contact them at 503-697-3673 to arrange for a dance program at your facility or event! NO CHARGE–A DONATION IS APPRECIATED!

**12-06-09–NEW LISTING!!Proclaimed one of the most authentic Japanese gardens outside of Japan, the Portland Japanese Garden is a haven of tranquil beauty nestled in the city’s west hills. The 5.5 acre Garden is composed of five separate garden styles ( A strolling Pond Garden, a Tea Garden, a Natural Garden, a Flat Garden, and a Sand & Stone Garden) and offers an unsurpassed view of Mt. Hood. Open Year Round. Many special events. Read more about Portland Japanese Garden in the Nature/Parks category, and make plans to visit!

**12-03-09–Let me give another shout out for long-time musician, Tego Burke! Tego loves performing for seniors. He plays guitar and sings a variety of styles, and he can even provide a “one man band” soundtrack suitable for dancing. A local senior facility reported words of praise for Tego, describing him “Wonderful!” Please read more about Tego Burke in the ElderAudience’s Music category and contact him to entertain at your facility or event.

**12-02-09–New Listing! I am very excited to announce that we have just listed the Well Arts Institute-Voices of Our Elders Project on ElderAudience. This project offers a variety of creative opportunities for seniors to engage in Memoir and Creative Writing, short story and poetry. Facilitators interact one to one with residents, with questions, encouragement, listening and scribing spoken stories or poems. The artist-assistants can act as scribes, allowing those with physical challenges to fully take part. Participants receive typed and bound manuscripts of their own writing, and and the facility also receives a collection of their residents’ writing. Actors present an on-site reading to celebrate and share the creative work with residents, families and

staff!The Voices of Our Elders project is suitable for Assisted Living, Residential and Memory care residents. Other options are available, such as short readings by actors, based on residents’ stories, which are followed by a Question and Answer session, as well as full blown stage productions with professional actors, which are open to the public. Contact Well Arts Institute and they will work with you to create a wonderful event for your residents! Learn more at their listing under the Storytellers, Theatre, Education/Instruction, or Miscellaneous categories on ElderAudience.Also, check out their website at www.wellarts.org

**11-25-09–Proud to announce another theatre listing, with a twist! Stumptown Stages is a professional musical theatre company in Portland that offers community outreach through musical entertainment for various events and functions! Invite them to travel to your facility with such shows as “Frostbite Follies” (a salute to the Holiday season), or selections from their productions of “The Wiz” and “Dreamgirls.” They also present full productions in the community that seniors will enjoy attending! Check out Stumptown Stages’ listing in the Theatre, Music or Holidays categories on ElderAudience.

**11-25-09–Just a reminder that there is a category called “Archive of previous e mail updates”, where you can read past messages I have sent out. These include not only events but also information on many of those listed on ElderAudience. This is a great way to become familiar with our performers, speakers and destinations, and is faster than systematically clicking on the more than 150 ElderAudience offerings!

**11-24-09–Spotlight on Rick Meyers and his Old Time Music Show!Have you checked out his listing? (Music, Novelty and Variety Shows categories) Rick features old-time singalongs and familiar favorites from as early as 1850 and as late as 1950! The show includes a delightful mix of humor, audience participation, and music played on the banjo, guitar, autoharp, ukulele, spoons, musical saw, harmonica, jewsharp, washboard, and washtub bass. (phew!)In addition to the singalongs, residents are encouraged to play music with Rick using the various shakers, spoons, and triangles that he brings for this purpose. The show is lively, personable, educational, and loads of fun! It is guaranteed to bring back a lot of fond memories. Sound system provided by request.**Rick is a trained therapeutic music specialist and has provided healing music in a wide variety of settings including residential care facilities, with adults in intensive care, brain-damaged individuals, hospice patients, and Alzheimers/dementia patients. The musical activities Rick uses are tailored to meet the needs of the individual or group he is working with.His services often include room-to-room visits and working with small groups.

**11-23-09–Remember our wonderful storytellers as you plan an activity this time of year! For example, Ken Iverson has some stories that are especially appropriate for the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays. And one local activity director shared with me, “Ken’s lighthearted warmth and fun-loving stories make him a resident favorite!” Read more about Ken Iverson in the Storytellers category on ElderAudience, and arrange for him to come to your facility or event.

**11-22-09–Elvis is “Alive” and well! We have just listed ELVIS TRIBUTE ARTIST, SINGER MARK STEVENZ (MARK AND THE MEMPHIS KINGS) ! Mark is a singer who uses his amazing vocal range, looks, personality and stage presence to bring back the days of his hero, Elvis Presley to all who were fortunate enough to see Elvis perform, and also to introduce the KING to a new generation who will become fans! Mark got his musical start when he was “discovered” a few years ago in a karoake bar, singing Elvis songs (of course). In addition to performing with his Elvis Tribute Band, MARK AND THE MEMPHIS KINGS, Mark has been a featured singer in several local musical theatre productions: Smokey Joe’s Cafe;Grease;and Jesus Christ Superstar.Contact Mark to have “The Memphis Kings” play at your facility or event–it will be an INCREDIBLE show! You will find Elvis Tribute Artist Mark Stevenz–Mark and the Memphis Kings under the Music category in ElderAudience.

**11-09-09–Check out this cool new listing! Matt Neill will bring his Live Calliope Entertainment to your facility or event. Music from the era of showboats and the circus through the 1950’s. Equally enjoyable indoors or outdoors. Volume is adjustable for the occasion. “As American as Baseball and Apple Pie”, Matt’s calliope can lighten the hearts of young and old alike with its sparkling sound! Also will entertain on organ and piano. See more about Live Calliope Entertainment under Music!

**11/6/09–Newly listed musician Matt Meighan describes himself as a “warm, engaging songwriter, guitar player and singer”. He has a long history playing Traditional and original folk music, and has performed throughout the world. Check out Matt’s listing under Music and have him play at your facility or event!

**11/6/09–Pleased to announce that we have just listed the Sons and Daughters of Oregon Pioneers, represented by “The Boone Sisters” Janet Boone McGarrigle and Carolyn Boone Grenfell. They, along with their cousin and family historian Arlene Curry Buschert present some fascinating history of early Oregon and the families who traveled the famous Oregon Trail! Read more about the Sons and Daughters of Oregon Pioneers under Speakers, and contact them to schedule a presentation. There is no charge, but they do accept donations for the organization.

**11/6/09–ElderAudience now has Cowboys! Newly listed Cowboy Kevin (aka Kevin Neil) has been entertaining seniors for the past fourteen years as the top rated act on cruise ships. He is now available to perform at your facility or event! See Cowboy Kevin’s listing under Music.

**11/6/09–Another new listing for a dance group! Scottish Country Dance Society, Portland Branch will travel to your facility or event to demonstrate the social dancing of Scotland, accompanied by fiddle and guitar. Learn more about them under Dance!

**11/6/09–Newly listed! Dom Franco plays the Steel guitar and sings–his repertoire includes hundreds of songs from the 30’s-60’s in a variety of styles. Dom performs at facilities for NO CHARGE, accepting donations for a charity. Read more about Dom under Music.

**11/2/09–Lee Wallace is a vocalist of popular songs from the 20’s through the 60’s, a la Tony Bennett, Frank Sinatra, Andy Williams, Al Jolson, and other well-known songs of the Big Band era. He presents an hour long show with accompanist Ardeth Fullmer, and guarantees you will enjoy their presentation! Also, Lee offers a special Holiday show! Check out Lee’s listing under Music and Holidays.

**10/29/09–Reminder about Elizabeth Wisler, Accordionist,who presents Music Around the World. She also is available to team up with a violinist to create the Allegro Elite Duo! Elizabeth has a vast musical repertoire that includes French, Italian, German, Spanish, Latin, Jazz Standards, and Music from the 20’s to the 60’s. See Elizabeth’s listing under Music or Holidays and contact her about a performance at your facility or event!

**10/29/09–FREE of charge, and travels to your facility! The Elsie Stuhr Center’s Cabaret Chorus is a senior choir that has been delighting audiences for years with their eclectic mix of choral and solo material. The choir is directed by celebrated pianist/conductor Jeffrey Kauffman. Read more about the Elsie Stuhr Center Cabaret Chorus under Music.

**10/26/09–Reminder for special occasions!The Alpine Echoes Band specializes in German, Scandinavian and folk dance music. They play for dancing or listening pleasure. They do authentic folk dances, and can also feature several teaching dances for audience participation.Their repertoire includes Polkas, waltzes, swing, country western, fox trot, schottisches, hambos, specialty folk dances and the chicken dance! Alpine Echoes’ music is from many countries: Germany, Austria, France, Russia,Italy, Mexico, Norway, Sweden, the United States and others.They play a variety of instruments like accordian, clarinet, tuba, flute, banjo, bass, fiddle, trumpet, drums, Austrian cowbells, and vocals. Check out The Alpine Echoes in the Music, Dance or Holidays category on ElderAudience. NOTE: this group performs at your facility or event on evenings and weekends only!

**10/26/09–Have you booked Rick Meyers’ Old Time Music Show yet? Rick presents a 60 minute show featuring old-time singalongs and a variety of lesser-known instruments including the spoons, musical saw & jewsharp, along with banjo & guitar. Lots of audience participation. Guaranteed to bring back loads of fond memories! Sound system provided by request.Read more about The Old Time Music Show in Music, Novelty or Variety Shows categories on ElderAudience.

**10/23/09–Have you heard Nuestro Canto? This duo brings “Inspirational Sounds from Latin America” to your facility or event.With vocals, guitar and small percussion instruments, Nuestro Canto performs traditional and contemporary music from Mexico, Cuba, Argentina, Brazil and other countries. They will entertain you with a variety of styles and rhythms, such as corridos, rancheras, boleros, bossa nova, sambas, and valses. Learn more about Nuestro Canto in the Music category on ElderAudience!

**10/23/09–Richard Jackson presents the Golden Age Radio Show, one hour filled with radio highlights, pictures of the stars, books, lots of audience participation…and a live re-broadcast of an ORIGINAL RADIO SHOW. Richard also does Holiday season “theme” shows!Read more about him under ElderAudience’s Variety, Speakers and Holiday categories.

**10/20/09–Planning ahead for a special occasion? Take another look at The Harmonics, a prize winning men’s vocal quartet! The Harmonics do a full hour stage show filled with plenty of variety, from barbershop to jazz and more! Learn more about The Harmonics in our Music category.

**10/08/09–New listing!! Hillsboro resident Cathy Speer sings and plays acoustic guitar. She has been playing, singing and writing songs since age 13. Her grandmother’s Bluegrass background and Scottish roots were a big influence to Cathy musically, as she grew up listening to her harmonies and country fiddle playing. Celtic and folks songs are Cathy’s specialty, although she plays other music as well, including hymns. She loves an audience that sings along with her! Cathy is a mom of 9, with 3 still at home. They sometimes sing with her. In addition to weddings and church functions, Cathy has played in restaurants, including Portland’s Dublin Pub. Cathy also plays holiday music.Read about Cathy in the Music category, and contact her to perform at your facility or event!

**9/29/09 New listing, but not new on the scene!! The South Riverside Kiwanis Club has been performing a Musical Lip-Synching Revue for Portland area seniors for 29 years. With stage lighting, backdrop, sound system and costumes they present favorites ranging from the Andrews Sisters to Bing Crosby and even Elvis Presley. Their 15 member cast is available to entertain at a senior facility on the Third Thursday of each month. No Charge, but a Donation is requested for the Kiwanis to help serve other needs such as Doernbecher Hospital and the Kiwanis Camp for Handicapped Kids. Please read about the South Riverside Kiwanis under the Music category and contact them for a program!

**9/27/09–Praise for Rojo the Therapy Llama! Michele, the Activities Director at Courtyard Village Senior Community wrote after Rojo’s recent visit: “The one thing I thought was funny was that before Rojo came, my residents said “Why is a llama coming? What does he do? Does he entertain?” My response was ” He is just who he is – he’s just a llama, ” and they thought I was nuts. I am corrected. Rojo is not just a llama, he is an amazing animal who melted everyone’s heart. The comment I heard the most from both facilities was “Can we keep him? “. Rojo was fabulous at Courtyard…. Lori, I think you are absolutely fabulous with Rojo and people. You are so gentle and engaging. All my residents felt so welcome and comfortable around Rojo and that largely has to do with your presence. You are both a gift to all of us, Thank you so much for having the time to come.” Read more about Rojo in the Miscellaneous category on ElderAudience, and arrange for him to visit your facility or event!

**The Music category is so large that it makes sense to visit it frequently and read about all the different artists who are listed! Let me suggest that you be sure to find Greg Clarke, a long-time local favorite for traditional mandolin, banjo, fiddle and guitar music. I first came across Greg at the Hillsdale Farmers Market, where his voice and playing created the perfect atmosphere of beautiful, soulful country tunes. Greg plays around town in pubs like Sellwood’s Muddy Rudder and well as area senior facilities and other venues. The term “lively and nostalgic” really does sum up Greg’s special music!

**Tego Burke, one of ElderAudience’s listed musicians, recently played guitar and sang at Summerplace Assisted Living. I spoke with staff there who reported great enthusiasm for Tego’s entertainment and said he was “Wonderful!” Tego has been playing music since he was a boy, and has lots of experience performing for seniors. In addition to guitar and vocals, Tego can even provide an entire soundtrack to create a “one man band” suitable for dancing! Read more about Tego Burke in the Music category.

**I was able to attend a program by one of ElderAudience’s newly listed performing groups at a local senior facility a couple of weeks ago: Hip Savvy, who are superbly graceful artists of belly dance! With their gorgeous costumes, varied music, and intricate and evocative choreography, Hip Savvy proves there is WAY more to belly dance than the cliche you may have in mind. I heartily recommend that you read more about Hip Savvy in the Dance category and see contact them to perform at your facility or event. When I saw them, I noted that residents, family members and staff all enjoyed seeing this group!

**Holli W. from West Hills Village has this to say about Storyteller Ken Iverson: “Having Ken out to our facility is an incredible treat; his lighthearted warmth and fun-loving stories make him a resident favorite!” Most recently, Ken did a program at West Hills for Grandparents’ Day. Please check out his listing under Storytellers and have him come to your facility one day soon!

**A testimonial just came in for ElderAudience listed Pianist and Speaker Donn Rochlin: “I just had the pleasure of having Donn Rochlin At Village Health Care today. He is very good with interacting with the residents , plays a variety of music and he is funny! We really enjoyed having him here and the residents told him to come back soon!” Read more about Donn in our Music or Speakers category!

**Recent words of praise from local activity director Linda B. for ElderAudience listed Jass Two Plus One–Hot Swing Jazz Trio:”We recently enjoyed an evening with Jass Two Plus One. If your audience has not heard this wonderful trio, they should give them a try. Our residents loved them!” Check out Jass Two Plus One in our Music category, and arrange for them to play on a special occasion!

**Plan a special lunch or even a decadent afternoon dessert outing to Otto and Anita’s Bavarian Restaurant. Excellent food, including Schnitzels, and out of this world pastries! Tucked away in Southwest Portland’s charming Multnomah neighborhood, Otto and Anita’s also has a large air conditioned banquet room for groups . Click on the Otto and Anita’s pic on the ElderAudience Home page to see their menus and more information, or go to their listing under our Restaurants category.

**Take a look and have a listen to the Westside Singers. They just sent along a YouTube link from one of their performances, which I’ve added here and to their listing: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_dRbRTf8Lfg Please find the Westside Singers in our Music category and arrange to have them entertain at your facility or event!

**Looking for a fun musical event ? Check out the Tone Rangers, a small mixed choir who have been entertaining seniors for years, with a special focus on those with memory issues! The Tone Rangers bring their well-known songs in a sing-along format, to your facility. They also have Holiday and Jewish music in their repertoire! Learn more about the Tone Rangers in the ElderAudience Music or Holidays category.

**This must be the month for accordions–Newly listed accordionist Diane Hagen says “Bring your requests and get ready to sing,dance,and have fun!” Diane is the daughter of renowned accordion teacher Eileen Hagen. She got her start at age two and a half and was on TV by age five! From there she went on to competitions, entertaining at restaurants, recording CD’s and doing concert tours! Diane plays solo or can add a sax player and drummer if desired. She is available for all occasions,and can play all styles.Check out Diane’s listing under the Music or Holidays categories and contact her about entertaining at your facility or event!

**Monica Barber has been listed on ElderAudience from the very beginning, so I’d like to take this opportunity to “sing” (pun intended:)) her praises! Monica brings her bells to your facility to create a Bell Choir and Sing-Along with guitar.The music you make together includes all the old favorite tunes together from the 30’s, 40’s, 50’s, patriotic, gospel, fabulous Broadway musicals and many more. Fun and challenging activities such as bell choir and rhythm band encourage audience participation while “Name-that-Tune” and sing along bring back great memories to reminisce by. Monica says “I am lucky enough to do what I love for over 14 years, that is to promote happiness with music that spans the decades.” Check out Monica’s listing under Music and contact her to arrange for Bell Choir!

**A new listing: Elizabeth Wisler, who plays Accordion, presents Music Around the World (solo accordion).She also is available to team up with a violinist to create the Allegro Elite Duo! Elizabeth has a vast musical repertoire that includes French, Italian, German, Spanish, Latin, Jazz Standards, and Music from the 20’s to the 60’s. See Elizabeth’s listing under Music or Holidays and contact her about a performance at your facility or event!

**In an effort to highlight the special gifts of our classical musicians, we have just created a new category: Musical–Classical! The performers listed there are also listed in our regular Music category. Please take a few moments to review the listings of these fine artists in the Music–Classical category.

**Any time of year is great for a storytelling session! I would like to highlight for you one of our very talented listed Storytellers, Anne Penfound. Anne invites you to “Take a stroll down memory lane or have fun being in the present” as you imagine the scenes evoked by Anne, the storyteller from England, who weaves the magic of story. Anne’s programs include Folk tales, Ghostly Happenings, Holiday tales for those special celebrations throughout the year, Humorous stories, and Anecdotes about everyday events that weren’t quite so every day! These are tales for the audience members to listen to, comment on, participate in and sing along with.

Anne also offers a special program called “Creating Stories Together”, a communication tool to help stimulate the imagination and promote active participation.

Note this Opportunity for New clients: Receive a 30 minute program FREE,(you pay only for Anne’s travel). Limit two groups per month. Please note that Holiday tales (e.g. Halloween,St.Patrick’s Day, and Christmas) or Creating Stories Together are not included in this offer. Please read more about Anne Penfound in our Storyteller’s category!

**New listing, for special occasions!The Alpine Echoes Band specializes in German, Scandinavian and folk dance music. They play for dancing or listening pleasure. They do authentic folk dances, and can also feature several teaching dances for audience participation (both adult and children).Their repertoire includes Polkas, waltzes, swing, country western, fox trot, schottisches, hambos, specialty folk dances and the chicken dance! Their music is from many countries: Germany, Austria, France, Russia, Italy, Mexico, Norway, Sweden, the United States and others.They play a variety of instruments like accordian, clarinet, tuba, flute, banjo, bass, fiddle, trumpet, drums, Austrian cowbells, and vocals. Check out The Alpine Echoes in the Music, Dance or Holidays category on ElderAudience. NOTE: this group performs evenings and weekends only!

**What an incredible diversity of talent is represented on ElderAudience! Our newest listing is a superb example: Nuestro Canto, a duo bringing “Inspirational Sounds from Latin America” to your facility or event.With vocals, guitar and small percussion instruments, Nuestro Canto performs traditional and contemporary music from Mexico, Cuba, Argentina, Brazil and other countries. They will entertain you with a variety of styles and rhythms, such as corridos, rancheras, boleros, bossa nova, sambas, and valses. Learn more about Nuestro Canto in the Music category on ElderAudience!

**Another listing! You may already know about it, but if not, check it out: RAPSU, Retired Associates of Portland State University is a membership organization for ANYONE aged 50 and older. For a very modest annual fee, RAPSU presents “programs of intellectual stimulation and fellowship” in meetings usually held the first two Thursdays each month. Learn more at RAPSU’s listing in the Education/Instruction or Speakers categories on ElderAudience!

**I am so delighted to announce this newest listing! Dawn Weiss, former Principal Flutist of the Oregon Symphony for 25 years, performs elegant classical music at your facility or event as part of a duo or trio, with a variety of musicians. She is also available as a Speaker on the topic of “The Career of an Orchestral Musician” (she comes from a family of symphonic musicians), and she even coaches and teaches amateur flutists and flute ensembles. Please see Dawn’s listing in the ElderAudience Music, Holiday, Speakers, or Education/Instruction categories!

**Planning ahead for a special occasion? Take a look at one of our new listings, The Harmonics, a prize winning men’s vocal quartet! The Harmonics do a full hour stage show filled with plenty of variety, from barbershop to jazz and more! Learn more about The Harmonics in our Music category.

**ElderAudience has also just listed Dick Weissman, a musician, author and scholar! Dick plays banjo and guitar, he will do sing-alongs, AND he offers lectures on the history of banjo and/or guitar as well as various aspects of the music industry! Please check out Dick’s listing under the Music, Education/Instruction, or Speakers categories.

**Remember our Symphony for special group outings! I was looking through the Oregon Symphony’s next season calendar and came across a bunch of concerts that would be great to attend, such as “The Great Gershwin” Pops Concert in October (especially Sunday 3 pm matinee); Gospel Christmas Special Concert; Comfort and Joy Special Concert(with Pacific Youth Choir, who are also listed on ElderAudience); Garrison Keillor Special Concert; Max Raabe & Palast Orchester Special Concert; and the “Fabulous Forties!” Pops Concert (especially Sunday 3pm matinee). Please check out the Oregon Symphony’s listing in the Music category on ElderAudience and contact them for information on group discounts!

**OK, this new listing is a real kick–I can’t wait to catch the show myself! Nostalgic Theatre, presented by Richard Jackson (who is also newly listed for his Golden Age Radio shows) is an old time movie house that is brought to your facility or event. Richard re-creates the “old fashioned movie house feel” with vintage movie projectors, screens, posters, and classic motion pictures. Charming cartoon before the feature show! Great for holidays and special themed events. Perfect for bringing in family and friends! Learn more about Nostalgic Theatre in the Variety Shows, Holidays, Theatre, or Miscellaneous categories on ElderAudience.

**For those nostalgia buffs out there…we have just listed Golden Age Radio, with Richard Jackson. Richard brings back the Golden Age in his presentations filled with radio highlights, pictures of the stars, audience interaction, and a live re-broadcast of an original radio show. Read more about Golden Age Radio in the Miscellaneous, Variety Show, Speakers, or Education/Instruction categories on ElderAudience!

**An unusual new listing! Celtic Trill is a duo of Celtic Harp and Flute that shares their musical talents with the community by playing mainly for retirement and assisted living facilities and senior centers. They also play concerts, and provide special music for weddings, birthday and anniversary celebrations and other events. For a relaxing atmosphere of Celtic, light Classical, Sacred, Broadway, Contemporary, American, music for lots of different holidays, and other worldwide favorites, give them a try! Learn more about Celtic Trill at their listing under the Music or Holidays categories!

**Let the newly listed Elsie Stuhr Cabaret Chorus entertain you ! This senior choir, directed by well known pianist/conductor Jeffrey Kauffman, has been performing around town for years with a mix of choral and solo material. The Cabaret Chorus will travel to your facility, and they are FREE of CHARGE. Check them out in the Music category.

**Newly listed: Oregon Historical Society. The Society, located in downtown Portland, has many wonderful exhibits, and provides guided tours by arrangement. Group discounts are available. And for your residents who are not able to travel to the Society, there is the Traveling Trunk program! Learn more at the Oregon Historical Society’s listing in the Museum or Outings category on ElderAudience!

**Have you missed any of the E Mail Updates I have sent out, to alert you to new listings or upcoming events? We have a new Category called “Archive of Previous E Mail Updates” that you can click on to read the ones from the past. Also, if for some reason you are not receiving the e mail upates (I usually send them about once a week, sometimes more often) please shoot me an e mail at pam@elderaudience.com. I will be sure to add you to the list. This ALSO entitles your facility to participate in the drawings we hold periodically for free performances by our listed entertainers!

**Oregon is Llama country! And ElderAudience now has one–Rojo the Therapy Llama would love to visit your senior community or private event. Rojo is the only certified therapy llama in the Portland/Vancouver area. He comes dressed for every occasion(see his pic in his listing), and is a big hit–also for visiting grandchildren! Rojo is listed in ElderAudience under our Miscellaneous and Holidays categories, or go to their website at www.RojoTheLlama.com

** The World Forestry Center, listed on ElderAudience, is taking visitors on a photo journey through Portland’s treasured Forest Park, in “A Year in the long life of Forest Park” with an exhibit showcased at the Forestry Center’s Discovery Museum in Washington Park. For a period of more than 2 years, photographer Bruce MacGregor hiked about 200 miles through Forest Park to capture the usual, and unusual landscape of Portland’s Crown Jewel. Dates: July 12-September 27. Museum open 10 am-5pm. Admission $7 for seniors.Read more about the World Forestry Center in ElderAudience’s Museum, Nature/parks, or Outings categories!

**Our latest listing is different! Roger Hart is a longtime Portland Radio Personality, who in 2007 was the first Radio Personality to be inducted into the Oregon Music Hall of Fame. Roger, an original KISN ‘Good Guy’ and more, including Sunny 1550 AM, spent many years in the celebrity world as personal manager to the famed Pop group Paul Revere and the Raiders. Roger is an event host and Master of Ceremonies and he can bring music and memories to any of your events–especially ‘oldies’, from the 40’s, 50’s and 60’s. Here’s what one local program director has to say about Roger: “Roger Hart is an incredible man. He is truly an icon here in Vancouver.” Check him out in our Music, DJ/Party Host, or Speakers categories.

**Newly listed: Tego Burke is a long time musician who plays guitar and sings a wide variety of music and will also do a “One Man Band” with recorded music.Tego who has performed since he was a boy, has played for many fraternal organizations, clubs, and private events, and especially enjoys entertaining seniors! An activity director in the Vancouver area has recommended him to me!

**Also new is In Cahoots (great name, huh?) is a women’s quartet “that loves sharing their 4 part a capella harmonies with whomever they can persuade to listen!” Their repertoire includes Broadway, gospel, and American standards from the 20’s up to today, often in classic Barbershop style. They can play shows of any length, from a couple of songs for that special birthday or anniversary, to an hour (including an oldies sing-along). Check out In Cahoots and bring them to your facility to serenade your residents.

****One great local entertainer listed on ElderAudience is Lee Wallace, a vocalist of popular songs from the 20′s through the 60′s, a la Tony Bennett, Frank Sinatra, Andy Williams, Al Jolson, and other well-known songs of the Big Band era. He presents an hour long show with accompanist Ardeth Fullmer, and guarantees you will enjoy their program! And, Lee offers a special Holiday show. He also currently performs with the Northwest Senior Theatre and the Westside Singers. Find listings for Lee Wallace, and for the Westside Singers, under the Music and Holidays categories.

**Now is the time to schedule the Westernaires for the fall!! This popular Senior Western line dance team says “The audience loves us because they are so surprised that we can dance that long and be their age!” The Westernaires dance to upbeat recorded music, and are very reasonably priced for an hour show. Read more about them in the ElderAudience Dance category.

**Among the many offerings in our ElderAudience Music category is Art Goodman (One-Man Band). Read about Art and see his fun photo! With a wide-ranging repertoire spanning swing, jazz, ballads, blues, holidays, Spanish and more, there’s something for everyone–and Art takes requests.

** When was the last time you heard a solo bagpiper? Schedule Dan DelMain for a program! Dan is an award-winning piper available to entertain your residents and play for special events. Here’s what one local activity director has to say about him: “The Forest Grove Beehive residents really enjoyed having Dan come play the bagpipes for us. The unique sound of the bagpipes is a welcome change to our music activities.” You’ll find Dan’s listing under Music.

**New restaurant listing! O’Connors Restaurant in Multnomah Village in SW Portland has GREAT food, cooked from scratch. I can personally attest to this!! O’Connor’s is a family owned 75 year old cafe which also has a private dining area suitable for special occasions. Please see their listing (in our Senior-friendly restaurants category)for more information. Note: O’Connor’s requests prior reservations and one check for the group.

**SWEET OPPORTUNITY!!!!Time to hold another drawing! But this one will be different. If you know of a talented performer or activity for seniors that is not currently listed on ElderAudience, refer them to us!(www.elderaudience.com, have them click on “How to be Listed” at the top of the Home page, OR have them e mail info@elderaudience.com) Between now and July 24, if we sign up a new listing who mentions you/your facility as the referral source, we will enter you in our drawing. Every listing credited to you will add one more chance for you. And the prize? A certificate for 4 heavenly homemade desserts baked by Anita of Otto and Anita’s Bavarian Restaurant. I have personally devoured brownies and Black Forest Cake made by Anita. Check out Otto and Anita’s restaurant listing on ElderAudience and click on their website to see their dessert menu, as well as their other scrumptious fare!This is a really fun and friendly place to take groups of seniors–and if you win, you can either award the desserts to 4 lucky residents, or redeem the prize for yourself on a decadent day off!

**Plan this for Fall! The Skylark Tappers have a concert scheduled at the PCC Sylvania campus on Saturday, October 10th at 7:30 and Sunday, October 11th at 2pm. Contact them to learn more. The Skylark Tappers are listed in ElderAudience’s Dance category.

**Yet another new listing: PSU’s Senior Adult Learning Center (SALC). What a fantastic resource! Oregon residents age 65 and older may audit almost all of PSU’s classes for NO TUITION (although some classes have fees for materials,lab, etc). For more information please checkout PSU’s SALC listing under the Education/Instruction category!

**We welcome the World Forestry Center as a new listing on ElderAudience! The Forestry Center is a fascinating destination for senior trips, to explore the Discovery Museum, with its rotating exhibits as well as hands-on and interactive experiences focusing on forests and environmental sustainability. In addition, the Forestry Center holds many popular special events. And, they offer group guided tours and cabin rentals for the Magness Tree Farm. See World Forestry Center’s listing under the Outings, Museum, Nature/Parks or Education/Instruction categories on ElderAudience.

**Nothing’s better than a ride in the countryside on the Mount Hood Railroad! Check out this new listing under Outings, to learn more about their many themed train excursions, including Autumn fest, Christmas Tree, Western Train Robberies, Sunday Brunch and Dinner trains!

**Looking for some lovely, relaxing piano music for your residents? That’s what Patrick Burke will bring to your facility. Patrick describes his music as “Original classic solo piano”–he is an original composer with his own unique style and sense of melody! Find Patrick’s listing under Music.

**Free music for one of your summer outings! Jass Two Plus One, who are listed on ElderAudience, will perform their “Hot Swing Jazz from the ’20′s and ’30′s” at the Woodburn Company Stores (back mall) on July 11, 1:30-3:30; July 26, August 15, and August 22 from 1-3pm. They are also appearing at Oak Park on three Saturdays from 2-4 pm: 6/20,8/29, and 9/5. Check out Jass Two Plus One under our Music category, if you plan a major event at your facility.

** Please check out Pacific Crest Wind Symphony’s listing on ElderAudience (under Music) and get more details at their website. They have special HALF PRICE group rates (10+) for seniors at their concerts. Also, they have scheduled several more concerts in the area over the summer, some of them free of charge!

**With summer, it must be time for outdoor theater! We have just added two theater companies who are offering FREE performances of Shakespeare: The Portland Actors Ensemble is performing King Lear at Cathedral Park in North Portland, and Original Practice Shakespeare Festival presents “Midsommer Nights Dreame” at various Portland parks. Please see both of the listings for these Theaters in ElderAudience, and click on their websites for details.

**New listing! Quintessence Language and Imagination Theater. This is a small company of actors who often portray multiple roles. They perform at the Mago Hunt Center at the University of Portland. This summer they present their own adaptation of Jane Austin’s Pride and Prejudice (7/31-8/16). Schedule includes Sunday matinees at 2pm. Senior rates, and group rates. For more details please see Quintessence’s listing in our Theatre category, or go to their website at www.qlit.org.

**Congratulations to the winner of our latest contest drawing: McLoughlin Place Senior Living in Oregon City (activity director Dorothy Nelson)! The prize is a program by Craig Brown of Hi-Fi Entertainment, a party host and DJ with many years experience in senior settings. Please find Craig’s listing in the Party Host/DJ category on ElderAudience. Also, Craig offers to put on a free mini-program as a demonstration for you and your residents, to see if you’d like to book him for a future event!

**Anne Rutherford is a supremely talented storyteller who is listed on ElderAudience. She enjoys spinning her tales for seniors:”The first time I sacrificed myself for love, I was madly in love with a boy in my kindergarten class. But so was my best friend,Paula…” So begins Anne’s opening tale in Fools for Love, a program she performed this spring at senior residences and assisted living facilities in the greater Portland area.”I hear as many great stories as I tell when I perform for the older generation,” Anne said. “I told an O. Henry in this show that featured a manual typewriter, so I brought along my 1940′s Royal Typewriter.Talk about sparking memories!”Audience members chimed in with their own reminiscences, including an audience member who regaled the crowd (at Anne’s invitation) with a verse of Oh My Darlin’ Clementine not found in most songbooks.”You brought a lot of joy to folks here today,” one resident told Anne as she packed up after performing at a care facility in Gresham. “All I could say was, ‘It’s mutual!’ Anne said. “This generation is such a gracious, generous audience. Not to mention connoisseurs of a good story.”Anne is performing a new program In the Good Old Summertime at senior centers and retirement facilities June through August. Contact Anne at (503) 235-2633 or anne@annerutherford.com to book her storytelling for your elder story-lovers.

** Check out Lunacy Stageworks’ Open Mic nights, where anyone, young or old, with a talent to share (traditional or zany) is welcome to step up and perform! Learn more by going to http://www.lunacystageworks.org , or find Lunacy’s listing under out Theatre or Outings categories.

**New listing–Many of you may know soprano Margaret Blaine, who has been singing around town for years! Margaret’s repertory is wide-ranging, from Broadway, to operatic, to old favorites. Think of Margaret (who has an accompanist) when planning your next event, including holidays and special occasions! Margaret is listed in the Music and Holiday categories.

*Take in a baseball game while supporting a terrific local organization! Elders in Action is having a baseball benefit at PGE Park on Sunday August 30 at 2pm, when the Beavers play the Tacoma Rainiers. A portion of the $9 admission goes to benefit the many valuable services of Elders in Action. For tickets, please call Brenda Morgan at (503)235-5474, or e mail her at brenda@eldersinaction.org . To learn more about Elders in Action, their activities and volunteer opportunities, go to their website at www.eldersinaction.org . Elders in Action is also listed under Volunteer Opportunities on ElderAudience!

**Something really different! Dr. Leland Gilsen brings his Traveling Museum of Oregon Prehistory to you.Dr. Gilsen was Oregon’s official state Archaeologist for 24 years! He has a display and demonstration of replica artifacts of Oregon cultures from up to 14,000 years ago! Dr. Gilsen offers his programs for no charge, but he does gratefully accept donations (he lives in Salem). Learn more about the Traveling Museum of Oregon Prehistory in its listing in the Education/Instruction or Museum categories on ElderAudience.

**Just listed: Steve Ulrich, a versatile musician and songwriter who sings, plays guitar and harmonica,and entertains at your facility or event in a variety of styles–country, blues, folk, rock, “spanning the broad range of Americana”.Songs by Johnny Cash, Hank Williams, Kitty Wells, and others, including original music. Steve’s programs are fun, lively and friendly.Check him out in the Music category!

**Did you know that the Rice Museum of Rocks and Minerals in Forest Grove not only is a fascinating place to visit, but they also have a program that can be brought out to you? Please check out their listing under Museums, Outings or Education/Instruction and contact them for more information!

** I must give a shout out for one of my favorite banjo/mandolin/fiddle/guitar/vocals musicians, who I heard again this morning at the Hillsdale Farmer’s Market: Greg Clarke. I couldn’t help smiling and tapping my feet to his old time bluegrass tunes, and neither will you or your residents. Contact Greg to come to your facility! Find his listing under Music.

**Today we also listed The Oregon Garden in Silverton, which makes for a lovely day’s outing. The Garden is actually comprised of more than 20 different types of gardens over 80 acres. Visitors can take a narrated tram ride and get on and off at will. There is a Garden Cafe for lunch and snacks, and a gift shop. Numerous events are hosted at the Garden–please check out all the details (and see some gorgeous pictures) on the Garden’s website, which you can find through the Garden’s listing on ElderAudience (in our Nature/Parks and Outings categories)

**We have another new listing for a singing group that will travel to your facility or event! Just For Fun Singers is a large group, based in the Salem area, who “sing because it keeps us young!” They range in age from 50 to 94. This year’s theme is “Oregon 150″. A mixed four part chorus, the Just for Fun Singers perform for NO CHARGE, but they gratefully accept donations, especially for lengthy travel. Please see Just for Fun Singers under the Music category, to learn more!!

**The Mayor of Hooperville, aka Erika Fey, has been listed on ElderAudience from the very beginning. And it bears repeating that she is a treat for your residents. Erika puts on a delightful program of artful and athletic hooping–even engaging a few staff or residents in the “hoopla”!Read more about The Mayor of Hooperville under the Dance or Novelty categories on ElderAudience!

**New restaurant listing! Tucked away in Historic Multnomah Village in SW Portland, is Otto and Anita’s Bavarian Restaurant. Chef Otto and Anita Fennerl bring you the finest in Bavarian food and pastries! Everything is cooked FRESH to order and in small quantities! Anita is their in-house pastry chef, and I can personally attest to her absolutely scrumptious desserts! Home of Otto’s famous pickle soup. Open for Lunch Tuesday through Friday 11 am-2pm, and Dinner Tuesday through Saturday 5 pm-9pm. They have a banquet room available to seat larger groups. Read more about Otto and Anita’s in ElderAudience’s Senior-Friendly Restaurant category!

**Wow! What a response was received to the news that the Portland Beavers were offering some complimentary tickets to summer Beavers baseball! The first two facilities (of MANY) to e mail me back each got 4 tickets to share with their residents. Congratulations to Courtyard Village in Raleigh Hills and Hillside Retirement Community in McMinnville! Thanks to the Beavers organization for making these tickets available to ElderAudience! The Beavers would like you to know that they have special GROUP TICKET pricing for 4 day time games this summer: Tuesdays 6/9, 7/7, and 8/4 and Monday 8/17. To learn more please contact Jen Manlig at the Beavers, (503)553-5443, or jmanlig@pgepark.com These ticket prices will NOT be available through the Box Office!

** Many of you are probably familiar with pianist Linda Smith, who has delighted senior audiences in many settings over the years. Known for her “Notes of Celebration”, Linda entertains with a wide variety of music from the 20′s to the 60′s, including sing-alongs, classical, sacred, Big Band, Broadway and holiday tunes. She also enjoys helping families celebrate special anniversaries and other events. Check out Linda’s “Notes of Celebration” listing in our Music category!

** Be sure to go to Christian Youth Theatre’s listing to see what new shows they have on tap for this spring! Note that they have some specially priced abbreviated daytime performances for seniors AND an offer for a FREE ticket to activity directors, to familiarize you with this great theater group!

**Spread the word to your colleagues and any families who may be interested in this listing: Elite Care, one of the Northwest’s most innovative providers of senior care, is hosting a FREE monthly education series on Care Across the Aging Spectrum. Dr. Elizabeth Eckstrom, MD, MPH, who heads the Geriatric program at OHSU, leads these sessions on a variety of topics, including Dementia, Nutrition, and Osteoporosis, among others. Learn more by checking out this listing under the Education/Instruction category!

**This is different! Bobbe Schafer travels our area bringing her fascinating one-hour presentation on “Aprons: Memories from the Past” to facilities and groups. As Bobbe speaks about aprons from the 1940′s to the 1970′s, she shows her collection of vintage aprons and historical photos, and stimulates audience interaction with stories and memories. Find out more by checking Bobbe’s listing under the Education/Instruction, Speakers, or Museum categories. She also has a website: www.bobbeschafer.com

** Our latest listing is one of the loveliest spots in all of the Northwest–Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden! 7 acres of beauty, open year-round! Accessible. Tours by appointment. Find their listing under the Nature/Parks or Outings categories and click on their website for more details!

** Take a look at a new listing under Outings and Nature/Parks: The Portland Beavers and Timbers! These hometown AAA baseball and USL soccer teams make for spring and summer excitement. Come on out to PGE Park to root for them and have some fun. Special pricing for groups of 15 or more!

** Let me call your attention to one of our more unusual listings: Elizabeth Harper ‘s Open Door Productions. Elizabeth travels to facilities with memory care settings to do theatrical improvisation, readers theater, storytelling, and cognitive exercises! Contact Elizabeth (in Theater, Storyteller, or Education/Instruction categories) for more information on her programs.

**Another musical offering, and this one is FREE of charge! Oregon Symphonic Band is an award-winning 65 member group that plays show tunes, marches and orchestral favorites as well as the best of 20th and 21st Century composers. The Band presents several FREE concerts each year in the Portland area. Please read more about the Oregon Symphonic Band on ElderAudience, and click on the link to their website, to plan an outing!

**And…we are very pleased to announce that Pacific Crest Wind Symphony has just been added to ElderAudience. This 45 piece group of brass, winds and percussion instruments performs concerts of contemporary wind ensemble compositions, usually at Lake Oswego High School in Lake Oswego. “A treat for the ears!” Learn more by checking out their listing in Music or Outings!

**Another exciting offering to share with you–Speaker Bobbye Brown presents several different fascinating programs. She gives talks on The History of Beads; Civil Rights; and Slavery. Bobbye is a long-time community volunteer who has received awards for her efforts. Bobbye does not charge a fee for her talks, but welcomes donations for her transportation. Please read more about her in the Education/Instruction, Hobbyists, Speakers, or Storytellers categories!!

**Another restaurant has been listed on ElderAudience! Check out The Stone Cliff Inn’s listing in the Senior Friendly Restaurants or Outings categories. The Stone Cliff Inn overlooks the Clackamas River in Oregon City. It has a reasonably priced menu and is fully accessible.

**We are pleased to welcome the Portland Youth Philharmonic to ElderAudience. Did you know that the PYP was America’s first youth orchestra? The most talented young musicians in our area play a four concert season which you can learn more about by checking the Portland Youth Philharmonic’s listing in our Music and Outing categories, or by checking their website: www.portlandyouthphil.org. Group rates, senior rates, and single tickets are available.

**Great new listing for a SPECIAL occasion at your facility or private party–Jass Two Plus One, a hot swing jazz trio that plays music from the ’20′s and ’30′s! These are consummate professionals–One of them was a guest artist with Louis “Satchmo” Armstrong, and another has played at the legendary Hollywood Bowl! Please read more about Jass Two Plus One in our Music category.

**ElderAudience welcomes another new listing –the Portland Baroque Orchestra, devoted to bringing world-class professional performances of music composed before 1840! Portland Baroque Orchestra’s concerts are held in two locations, at the 1st Baptist Church in downtown Portland, and at Reed College’s Kaul Auditorium (where Sunday matinees are held). Please read about Portland Baroque Orchestra in ElderAudience’s Music category!

**More new listings! Rose City Banjoliers bring their lively group to your facility for a fun time of favorite tunes from the 20′s and 30′s! Some even play washboards!! See them under Music.

And…

**Please read about certified yoga teacher Louise Lorente and her Yoga with Chairs classes. Louise “incorporates laughter, gentle stretching and breathing into classes that offer a kind, loving, supported alternative to the traditional yoga class”. First class is free!!

**Do you and your residents have a favorite RESTAURANT to recommend for a listing on Elderaudience? Please e mail me at pam@elderaudience.com with the restaurant name and phone number (manager’s name a real plus) OR have them check out the site at www. elderaudience.com! It will help them get more patrons, and stimulate our economy! Thank you!

**You should really check out this listing: Patricia Jean Labat–Music Facilitation. Patricia offers quite a variety! She beautifully plays the piano, conducts singalongs, has organized resident choirs, performs for birthday parties and holidays, and also provides visiting dog therapy!

**I spent part of this morning at Holladay Park Plaza enjoying a fascinating and entertaining presentation by Joe Mayer, who along with his twin brother played “Little Ricky” for three seasons on the I Love Lucy Show in the 50′s! Joe talks about the show, the actors, and the groundbreaking nature of the Lucy Show, and shows a funny (of course) episode from the old days–then takes questions and signs autographs! I recommend you read about Joe Mayer on ElderAudience.com and contact him for an interactive , lively and unique activity! You’ll find him in the Education/Instruction, Miscellaneous, and Novelty categories. ***AS A RESULT OF ALL THE CONTACTS FROM ELDERAUDIENCE, JOE IS SO MUCH IN DEMAND THAT HE WILL NOT BE AVAILABLE FOR MORE PROGRAMS UNTIL AUGUST 2009***

**Newly listed! Art Goodman’s One Man Band Music show. Art plays guitar, sings, and can put on a one-man band with keyboard. He plays a wide variety of styles, takes requests, and loves to entertain for special occasions such as 50th anniversaries! He travels to your facility and also plays private parties. Check out Art’s listing under Music!

**More dancers! We have just added the Portland Tap Connection, an adult tap ensemble featuring Broadway style tap dancing with many costume changes and a variety of toe-tapping music. Check them out! Also see our other tap dancing offering, the Skylark Tappers!

**We are very proud to announce that the Oregon Symphony is now listed on ElderAudience! Our beloved Symphony is really the anchor of cultural life in the Rose city, with its 75 concerts throughout the season–from classical to Pops music, to one of a kind special events! On May 25 and 26, Laureate Associate Conductor Norman Leyden presents “Sentimental Journey II”, featuring all-time Pops favorites. The show on Tuesday 5/26 is a 2pm matinee, and is sure to be popular with your residents! Please see the Oregon Symphony’s listing in our Music or Outings categories, and click on their website for details on all their upcoming concerts!

**We have another new and unusual listing to announce: Hammered Dulcimers with Beltaine. This trio performs Celtic and traditional music with a variety of instruments as well as vocals, and sing-along. Be sure to read about them in our Music category!

**Are you familiar with the Portland Memory Garden? This special place in Southeast Portland is a lovely, serene park designed particularly for those with memory impairments and their caregivers, although all are welcome to this free destination. With spring around the corner, the Memory Garden also needs volunteers! Please check out the listing for the Portland Memory Garden under Nature/Parks, Outings, and Volunteer Opportunities categories, and plan a visit!

The Old Spaghetti Factory has been added to our new Restaurant category! Arrange to bring a group of your residents to one of their area restaurants for a delicious, affordable meal! The Old Spaghetti Factory takes reservations, has a senior menu available, and I can personally attest to the delightful Banquets they are able to provide!

Our Restaurant category is being launched! Weatherford’s Grand Lodge in Oregon City is the first to be listed. Bring your group to Weatherford’s for an affordable fine dining experience.

Looking for a lively band to come in for a special occasion such as a birthday or anniversary celebration? Please read about one of our new listings, the Puddin’ River Jazz Band in the Music category. This 7-8 person band, including vocalists, is highly accomplished and much loved in our area!

Not new, but increasingly popular–The Tone Rangers, a small mixed choir “bringing well known songs to seniors in a sing along format” to your residents!! See them in the Music category.

This town has some exceptional bagpipers! For an interesting and enjoyable experience, book award-winning solo bagpiper Dan DelMain, listed under “Portland Piper” in the Music category. Dan is available to play in many settings including your facility, parties and weddings! His performances can include question and answer sessions about how to play the bagpipes, and their history, interpersed with the music.

They just keep coming!! We are now listing the Oregon Old Time Fiddlers, who describe themselves with the phrase “music grandpa and grandma used to listen and dance to”. This group, flexible in numbers to meet your needs, will come to your facility. Check out their listing in our Music category!

If you aren’t already familiar with Rice NW Museum of Rocks and Minerals, please take a few moments to view their listing (in Museum, Outings, and Volunteer Opportunities categories). This fascinating place is a great choice for a group outing. It is wheelchair and walker accessible. Also, for those who are interested, they have volunteer opportunities!

**Look at what Terwilliger Plaza’s Activity Director, Melyssa, had to say about one of our listed performers, David Rutiezer (The David Show):”I just wanted to let you know that David Rutiezer entertained folks here today for our “National Kazoo Day” theme meal and was well-received by both members/residents and staff. He was a true pleasure and performed with a great variety of old standards that were fun, reflective and encouraging. Many folks talked about his show long after lunch and I will have him back in March for certain!” Please check out David’s listing under our Music or Dance categories!

Try something different for your residents–bring Sir James McDonald Pipe Band to your facility! This award winning pipe and drum group can also perform as a smaller group. Please check them out in our Music category!

It’s time to give a shout out to one of this area’s most talented and experienced musicians who is listed on ElderAudience: Greg Clarke. Greg plays Old Time and Bluegrass tunes on different instruments including Mandolin, Banjo, fiddle and guitar and he sings too! “Traditional music, both lively and nostalgic”. You can hear some of Greg’s music through the video link on his listing. I first caught his excellent playing at a local Farmer’s market! Your residents will get a lot of pleasure from Greg’s music!!

Another day, another great listing! Please read about Oregon Chamber Players in the music category. This group forms ensembles from trios to quintets, and will perform at your facility as well as at concerts in the Portland area. These superbly talented classical musicians have a wide range of styles. Think about Oregon Chamber Players for that special event–perhaps a family anniversary, honored resident’s birthday, etc.

We have two new listings to announce! One is Harry Henderson’s Quartet-”Say It With Music”! This group’s Big Band sound features a variety of styles and danceable rhythms, and is sure to please for your special event.

You will find both of these new listings under our Music category.

**Please look in the Music Category for Lee Wallace, a well known vocalist around town who presents a visually and musically a stunning show with accompanist. It may be the perfect event for your special occasion!!

**Have you read about Swara, who present soothing, calming sounds of North Indian Raga music, with a sitar and tanpura? They are pictured, seated with their instruments against a gold curtain, in our rotating picture banner, above.

**One of our fabulous storytellers, Anne Penfound, will provide a one half-hour storytelling program as a free trial for your residents! Read more about her, and ALL our gifted storytellers, in the Storytellers category!

**Look for UNCLE YASCHA, who delights with music, humor and stories. You’ll find him in our Music, Novelty, and Storytelling categories.

** Another truly novel listing to check out: The Old Time Music Show with Rick Meyers! Rick’s show features singalongs and lesser-known instruments like spoons and musical saw, as well as banjo and guitar. You’ll find the Old Time Music Show under Music and Novelty.

**Please take a look at the listing for Sher Johnson in our Music category. Sher happens to be an Activity Coordinator at a local facility in addition to being a wonderful pianist. Her available days to perform have recently changed to Sundays and Mondays, so contact her to play for your residents!

**A word to senior facilities on PRICES for entertainment: The performers listed on ElderAudience really run the gamut in terms of what they charge, from being volunteers to charging quite a lot. We have some “higher end” full-time professionals, as well as many others whose charges are moderate. We know that senior facilities’ budgets are limited, and this can be a big challenge as you schedule activities for your residents. Some of our performers are willing to negotiate a lower price based on your circumstances. And if not, PLEASE keep checking the other listings. And check OFTEN, as we keep growing!! Thank you!

**For another SPECIAL occasion offering, see the Music category for the Ringering/Wheeler Piano Duo. This talented team plays both 4-hand and 2 piano music in a variety of styles. Spectacular!

**Weaver’s Tale Retreat Center has fantastic programs, INCLUDING mini-retreats brought to your facility! Find Weaver’s Tale in the Nature/Parks and Outings categories.

**What a group of vocalists we have in the Music category! We just added Mindi Brizendine–”Music to inspire your heart, relax your mind, and lift your spirits!” read about her!

**Also newly listed and worth a look! The popular Westside Singers, a choral group performing, swing and jazz, including Holiday music!!

** And what about scheduling some dancers, like the Skylark Tappers, or children/youth troupe from the Lake Oswego Dance Academy, to perform at your facility?

**Did you know that Portland is a hub for jugglers? We have two Juggler/Comedians! Look under the Novelty or Miscellaneous categories for Curtis Carlyle and Henrik Bothe.

**A new “SPIN” on a youthful activity!! Mayor of Hooperville (Erika Fey) wows everyone with her lively hoop artistry! Find her under Miscellaneous and Novelty.

This entry was posted on Monday, July 13th, 2009 at 1:29 pm and is filed under Previous E Mail Updates.

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