Combining Events

Yesterday, my family had a combined birthday party for the four family members whose birthdays are in June. What a rip. Sure, it's easier for those of us whose schedules seem to require 28 hours in a day. But what we're doing is under-celebrating people, and exhausting ourselves by trying to cover all the bases. Silly?

Let's consider the next scenario: We (being SAGA and the Arts Council) are combining events on Wednesday, June 16. It is time for SAGA's AGM, which at this point doesn't promise to be a blockbuster event. It is also time for the Marie Manson and Blair Borden Awards to be handed out. So instead of plugging in the tea kettle on two different days, we're working together to make a nice reception for the SAGA members and the very talented award recipients; Scott Crocker (MM), Joseph Dansereau (BB) and Asha Pratt-Johnson (BB). Then, weather permitting, we will all hike down to the wharf and enjoy ShuJaz at WOW. We'll be exhausted, but we'll have accomplished a great deal in a day. I wonder if we'll remember any of it on Thursday.

Tribute to Bern Smith

A wonderful opening reception tonight at SAGA. Bern's work is really amazing - his skill at portraits is unsurpassed. It was a delight to see all his friends from the seventies and eighties come out to see the show, and to meet Bern's son, Brett. So many stories, many old photos were passed around, lots of laughs and memories. What a fitting tribute to the man who had such an impact on this community. Bern is the one responsible for many Shuswapians beginning an art collection. He showed us that original works of familiar landscapes have vitality, an energy that prints and posters lack. Like many great artists, this exhibition came 16 months too late. But tonight we celebrated the man and his work. This show continues to June 26. A must see.

WOW begins again

Perhaps it's the crazy weather, but summer doesn't feel quite upon us yet. The first concert of Wednesday On the Wharf is my harbinger. Brian PJ will be there with two big jazz bands. Concert starts at 6:45pm, and the clouds better be white. Roger Parenteau (WOW Coordinator) has just returned from coordinating a triathlon in Calgary during that snowstorm. What a nice change for him to come home to the Shuswap!