Jane in the Jungle

Come si dici...La Luce scopa il THESPIES

2010-06-18T09:43:00.004-04:00

KUDOS to a magnificent cast and crew.
BEST SHOW OVERALL
BEST SHOW MUSICAL
DIRECTOR...Jane Falion
ACTOR .....Chad DeKatch
ACTRESS ....Paige Lucas
SUPPORTING ACTRESS...Betsy Bledsoe
SET....Tim Fox
COSTUMES...Tomi Simmons, Jane Falion, Lindsay Palinsky
LIGHTING...Tim Fox
SCENOGRAPHY...Diana and Bruce Rochowiak

2010-03-31T10:14:00.002-04:00

THE LIGHT IN THE PIAZZA
CAST ANNOUNCED

Margaret Johnson
Emily English Clark

Clara Johnson
Paige Lucas

Fabrizio Naccarelli
Chad DeKatch

Guiseppe Naccarelli
Dale Edward Powell

Franca Naccarelli
Betsy Bledsoe

Signor Naccarelli
Doak Bloss

Signora Naccarelli
Laura Davis Stebbins

Roy Johnson
Gordon L. Clark

Florentines

Barbara Stauffer, Jeff Massey,
Rachel Dalton, Simon Tower,
Eric Chatfield, Adrian Sanchez,
Mark, Gouba, Additional cast TBA
pending acceptance confirmation

Remembering Jeff

2010-02-26T18:22:00.012-05:00

My friend Jeffrey died a while ago only I didn't know about it. I wish I had.

I thought it was odd that he didn't return messages. I was a little confused when my emails bounced back. I was more than a little concerned when his phone number of more that 40 years had been disconnected. But it wasn't until yesterday that I learned of his death, when his brother emailed me after receiving a note I had sent Jeff, jokingly threatening to show up on his door step next week if he didn't get in touch with me (I told him I had already mapquested it).

(photo above by Danna Segrest)

It's nobody's fault that I hadn't heard but I wish I had.

I would have sent a card and flowers or made a contribution. I would have gone to the funeral. I would have met his family and most of all I would have told them what an incredibly talented man their brother and uncle was. So, I will tell you.

You may have known him because Jeffrey Jon Nash was one of us; a die hard "theatre person." Maybe you were lucky to have acted with him in any of the 3 dozens shows he did here. Maybe he designed the lights for a show you were in. Maybe you sat around his apartment listening to the latest Broadway Cast Album even before ANYBODY else even knew that the musical had been recorded. Maybe you got to perform something he wrote.

Jeff came to MSU to study communications and ended up staying for more than 9 years. Nine years doesn't seem like a lot of time in the broad scope of The Universe or even in the scope of our own short lives but Jeffrey accomplished a lot in those 9 years and left an indelible mark.

In that short time he acted with almost every company in town; The Okemos Barn Theatre, MSU, LCP, LCC, Boarshead Theatre, Arts Encounter, Riff Raff Productions, and Cabrafae Theatre. You might remember him from Damn Yankees, The Robber Bridegroom, Kiss Me Kate, You're a Good Man Charlie Brown, Godspell or any of the dozens of shows he did.

Then he discovered lighting design. He loved it and was incredibly good at it; designing and lighting multiple shows, staying long into the night patching, gelling, and focusing lights. He wrote 5 years of scripts for the Barney Awards and created a musical montage for Same Time Next Year that I still listen to; 24 years of music and news clips, a playlist, without a computer, the internet or iTunes!

By the time Jeff moved on he was himself a multiple award winning actor and designer. He was VERY proud of those Barney, Thespie, and State News Awards! He happily reminded you of them!

He went off to care for his ailing parents, learn about radio, and study acting. He became a radio show host in Indiana with the NBC affiliate station, was a member of The Actor's Center of London, The Actor's Alliance and Actor's Equity. He performed with Purple Rose Theatre in The Harmony Code and Orphan Train.

It was either a brilliant move on my part or just dumb luck that 16 years ago I asked him to judge a MIFA Theatre Festival. I ended up hiring him year after year because he was so good, was wonderful and kind to students and had such a great eye. He continued judging for MIFA until last year. The best part is that we got to see each other regualarly, talk for hours and hours about what we loved best; theatre and, yes, kvetching, about the shows we had seen. You know what I mean.

If you saw An Act of Madness: The Bath School Bombing at The Renegade Theatre Festival or in Bath this year, you saw something Jeff wrote. We collaborated on the script in 2004 for the forensic's season which he helped coach and revived it this year. I'm glad he came to the performances in Bath. I wanted him to hear the applause and feel the love.

I don't know how to wrap my head and especially my heart around losing Jeff. I thought we had years and years of kvetching to do. I am just honored that he was my friend.

Even in his passing he has brought people together to talk, to share, to reminisce, to look at old photos, programs and newspaper stories and to remind us what we all mean to each other.

From An Act of Madness....

"We will always remember you"

"Go well."

Information Please

2010-01-15T11:57:00.007-05:00

JUST POSTED

A WORLD OF INFORMATION ABOUT AUDITIONS FOR
THE LIGHT IN THE PIAZZA

http://lightinthepiazzaatriverwalk.blogspot.com/

Gearing Up

2010-01-15T10:25:00.003-05:00

(Favorite transport in Florence, Italy)

Time to get moving on The Light in the Piazza
and that means updating and posting information on the show's blog.

The Light in the Piazza blog is www.lightinthepiazzaatriverwalk.blogspot.com

Rothschilds Back on Broadway

2009-12-17T21:06:00.001-05:00

The Miami Herald reports that Miami producer and former director of Miami's Coconut Grove Playhouse, Arnold Mittelman, who ran Miami's Coconut Grove Playhouse from 1985 until it's closing in 2006 is planning the first Broadway revival of The Rothschilds, a 1970 musical written by Sherman Yellen and featuring a score by Jerry Bock and Sheldon Harnick.

Based on The Rothschilds by Frederic Morton, it tells of the rise of the Rothschild family from humble beginnings in Germany, to their founding of their financial empire and growing political influence under the guidance of patriarch Mayer Rothschild, to their assistance in funding Napoleon's defeat, and how they secure a declaration of rights for European Jews in the midst of an oppressive era. The Rothschilds was the last collaboration between Bock and Harnick. The show won a Tony Award for its original star Hal Linden,

Mittelman presented the show at the Coconut Grove Playhouse in April 1995. The Herald reports that he intends to hire that version's director, Jeffrey B. Moss, to helm the Broadway installment. Financing is allegedly in place, however, no venue has been secured. Mittelman has indicated that he plans to first open the new production outside of New York, with the Broward Center for the Performing Arts and The Old Globe being top options. He aspires to bring the production into New York in 2010 or 2011.

The production will have a capitalization of $7 million.

"I believe it's a story that has extraordinary relevance, and that it can be an inspiration,' Mittelman said of the endeavor.

As a producer, Mittelman is responsible for more than 200 ethnically diverse plays, musicals, educational and special events performed on two stages during his 21-year tenure at the Coconut Grove Playhouse. These plays and musicals were highlighted by 28 World or American premieres. Forty Playhouse productions, featuring some of the industry's greatest theatrical talents and supported by innovative partnerships between the not-for-profit and for-profit sectors, transferred directly to Broadway, off-Broadway, toured, or went on to other national and international venues. This body of work includes three Pulitzer Prize-winning playwrights directing their own work for the first time in a major theatrical production: Edward Albee - Seascape; David Auburn - Proof; and Nilo Cruz - Anna In the Tropics. Musical legends Cy Coleman, Charles Strouse, Jerry Herman, Jimmy Buffett, John Kander and Fred Ebb were in residence at The Playhouse to develop world premiere productions. The Coconut Grove Playhouse has also been honored by the participation of librettist/writers Herman Wouk, Alfred Uhry, Jerome Weidman, Terrence McNally and Mario Vargas Llosa. Numerous Tony Award winning actors, directors, choreographers and designers worked with Mr.Mittelman. In addition, while at The Playhouse he oversaw the creation of an education program that included an ongoing professionally taught theatrical training curriculum, internships, scholarships and in-school touring program that commissioned and produced 35 socially relevant plays reaching thousands of children.

2009-12-10T15:20:00.003-05:00

HOLIDAY BOUTIQUE

5 ARTISTIC WOMEN
Combine their talents for this Holiday Sale.

An exceptional array of indie goods including jewelry, pottery, stationary, cards, silk scarves, felted purses, art boxes, heavenly scented herbal gifts, and cat lovers jewelry.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 12 10-4
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 13 12-5

4322 GREENWOOD DRIVE
OKEMOS

DESIGNING WOMEN HOLIDAY BOUTIQUE

2009-12-03T10:22:00.003-05:00

(pins made from vintage postcards)

The Designing Women are back for a fun, stress free shopping experience featuring unique jewelry, pottery, paper crafts, purses, potpourris and heavenly scented products for Holiday gift giving.

HOLIDAY BOUTIQUE
Saturday, December 12, 10-4
Sunday, December 13, 12-4

Come shop, come chat, get your shopping done is one easy place. No parking hassles or huge crowds. In some cases gift wrapping is complimentary!

4322 Greenwood Drive
Okemos

What's in a Name

2009-11-07T16:35:00.003-05:00

When my husband Larry and I married more than 25 years ago, I kept my name. I'm a Falion, he's a Savoie; a point of pride, for professional reasons and mostly one tiny effort to preserve and honor a family name in danger of dying out. The other day Larry sent this to me.

It made me smile. I did a little dance. I felt a little vindicated!!

(Reported by CNN from Oprah.com)

Lots of folks have Sunday morning rituals -- church, pancakes, watching football. I turn to the wedding pages.

Every Sunday, I open up The New York Times to check out the wedding announcements.

They call that "the sports section for women," which is annoying, because it presupposes that, because I'm a chick, (a) I don't like sports and (b) I love weddings. To which I say, (a) I know what a hat trick is and (b) wedding invitations are just bills written in calligraphy.

No: I check out the wedding announcements because I want to see how many women change their names.

I am freshly gobsmacked every single Sunday morning when I see that about half the women -- mostly under 35, all women with careers, all women who chose to submit their announcement to the putatively liberal New York Times --are electing to give up their identity.

What would Lucy Stone say? She was a 19th-century suffragist who was the first American woman to revert to her birth name after marriage. She even had to chastise one Susan B. Anthony by writing to Suze, "A wife should no more take her husband's name than he should hers." Stone's followers -- women who refused to change their names upon marriage -- were called Stoners.

Today only about 20 percent of American women are Stoners. In other words, 80 percent of women change their identities -- I mean, names -- upon getting married.

It makes me wish we were a more progressive country like...Iran. Yes, Iran, where Muslim women keep their names for life. So must women, by law, keep their names in Belgium, France, Italy, the Netherlands, Chile, Malaysia, Korea...I could go on, but I really like the way they do it in Spain.

There, people have two surnames -- their father's and their mother's. When they have a child, she receives the first surname from the father and the second surname is the first surname of the mother, and the parents choose whether the father's or the mother's surname goes first, although this order must be the same for all their children.

If that was a bit confusing, it's just because they use the metric system.

Names are our identity. They matter. Think about it: What does the Witness Protection Program do when they want you to disappear? They make you keep your first name and change your last name. When someone illegally assumes someone else's name, we say an identity's been stolen; when someone legally assumes someone else's name, we say...you're married.

Let's cut through the most platitudinous argument: "A family shares a name." Um, nuh-uh. Did your grandmother have the same last name as you? Was she still your Nana? Conversely, does having the same last name mean you'll always stay a family? Ask the Gibsons or the McCartneys or the McGreeveys or...

What's in a name? You tell me...

• Would you want to lay down seven grand to buy a wedding dress from Vera Becker? (Vera Wang?)

• How about listen to a song from Mariah Cannon, Jennifer Anthony or Barbra Brolin? (Mariah Carey, Jennifer Lopez, Barbra Streisand)

• Read a cover story on Angie Pitt? (Angelina Jolie)

• Netflix an old film with Elizabeth Hilton Wilding Todd Fisher Burton Warner Fortensky? (Elizabeth Taylor, natch)

• Or get your nightly news from Katie Monahan? (Katie Couric)

• Gloria Bale needs her surname like a fish needs a Steinem. (Gloria Steinem)

• And does the name Sonia Noonan suggest an "extraordinary journey"? (Sonia Sotomayor)

By the way, my wedding announcement was in The New York Times. When I submitted it, I wrote, "The groom is keeping his name." The Times did not publish that sentence. I guess they thought it was a typo.

Mark Your Calendar

2009-10-21T16:17:00.003-04:00

The Mason Holiday Craft Show and Home Tour is coming soon. Thursday-Saturday, November 12-14, 9-9 Thurs and Fri. and 9-4 Sat.

I'll be back at the Iron Pig Antiques on Columbia Road with gorgeous new jewelry designs.

Keep following this blog for more information and a peek at my new designs.

Give well! Spend Less!

World Premeire

2009-10-19T10:56:00.003-04:00

SISTERS a staged reading of a play about the conflict between love, family, faith, and fame will premiere at Riverwalk Theatre, Sunday, November 8, at 7 p.m. One night only. Free

Louisiana, 1944; a young opera singer must make the ultimate sacrifice. Gabrielle is on the verge of a career breakthrough in the lead role of Lucia di Lammermoor with the Metropolitan Opera when she must make an excruciating choice.

Featuring a stellar cast of local performers: Addiann Hinds, Kat Cooper, Evan Pinsonnault, Mara Schaberg, Bill Shipley, Bill Henson, Mark Zussman, Colleen Bethea, Lindsay Palinsky, Theresa Spisak, Sierra Olsen

Hot! Potato

2009-10-15T19:12:00.004-04:00

This is my Ah Ha moment about the baked potato. Why did my baked potatoes never taste as good as the restaurant ones? I've wondered that for years. Was it the foil? Was it the oven? Was it the potato?

Last night after having a wonderful dinner with the GNO group, I carried home delicious left overs for lunch today.

As I was enjoying said leftovers, I was still asking myself, why was this potato so good?

I took action.
Went online and googled restaurant style potatoes and found the answer!

Ah Ha! It's the oil and the salt. So tonight, a little experiment.
I oiled my potatoes with olive oil, salted them with sea salt and baked them the proper way, in the oven for more than an hour.
Voila! Restaurant potatoes; crispy, chewy skins with a rich deep flavor!

Bath Massacre by Arnie Bernstein

2009-10-14T14:45:00.002-04:00

Arnie Bernstein has written a wonderful book about the Bath Massacre. Check it out. He will be at the Grand Rapids Library this Saturday (10-4) along with Dave Cullen (Columbine) and Mardi Link (Isadore's Secret) for a book reading.

Below is my review for Amazon of his book.

5.0 out of 5 stars Bath Massacre, October 14, 2009
By Jane B. Falion (Okemos, Mi USA)

Bath Massacre is the compelling account of the tragic events of May 18, 1927 in the tiny town of Bath, Michigan where Andrew Kehoe dynamites the local consolidated school killing 45; 38 of them children.

Bernstein takes the reader back to the bustling and growing town of Bath and lays the foundation of the town and its people leading up to that fateful day when a disgruntled farmer and school board member sets out on a path of destruction: mudering his wife, setting his farm on fire, blowing up the school, and eventually killing himself and others in a final devastating explosion. He delves into the mind of this madman trying to make sense of a senseless act.

Thorough, detailed, and gripping.Bath Massacre: America's First School Bombing

A few

2009-09-17T16:49:00.001-04:00

Where I Went for Summer Vacation

2009-09-09T20:13:00.002-04:00

Soo Locks, Frontier Town, Deer Ranch, Our Lady of the Pines, Totem Village, The Underground Forest, and Hiawatha. If these names conjur up visions of summer vacations of your childhood you can relive them in all their glory...but you have to be quick! The Michigan Historical Museum is ending it's eight month exhibit MICHIGAN'S ROADSIDE ATTRACTIONS and it is WONDERFUL!
The museum is free, parking is inexpensive and the exhibit can be easily seen in an hour but you'll want to spend more time. Bring your camera, you can take photos.

Every Dog Has Its Day

2009-09-07T18:42:00.004-04:00

Why is a hotdog with meat sauce called a "Michigan Dog" in New York and a "Coney (Island)Dog" in Michigan? a pressing question I know, one I've wondered about for several years but it was this weekend in Royal Oak that prompted the answer.

After passing at least a dozen or more "Coney Island" named restaurants we started talking about this phenomenon and also wondered why there were so many "Coney Islands" in Detroit.

Several years ago in upstate New York I had this conversation with the deli guy. "I'd like a hot dog, please." The deli guy said, "Regular or a Michigan dog?" "What's a Michigan dog" I asked? "Oh, its a hotdog with meat sauce." "Wait, I said, "Isn't that a Coney dog? You know, after Coney Island IN NEW YORK."

So a little googling was in order. Apparently there are competing claims to fame about the invention of the "Michigan" dog. Here's what I found...

Coney Islands are a unique type of Greek American restaurant that originated in Detroit. Several restaurants claim to have invented the name and concept. Claimants include American Coney Island in downtown Detroit, established by Greek immigrant Gust Keros in 1917, with the then-owner contending that he had bought a similarly configured chili dog at the well known New York park. The first Coney Islands were started by Keros and his brother, who got into an argument quite soon after and split their restaurant into two parts--the present day Lafayette and American Coney Islands which are next door to each other, and who to this day argue about which is the "original." Similar claims are made by Todoroff's in Jackson, Michigan.

The Todroff Claim....

Although there are many different varieties of Michigan sauce[2] available today, the original Michigan sauce was created by Mr. George Todoroff in Jackson, Michigan. The sauce was originally created to be used as chile sauce. In 1914, Mr. Todoroff took his recipe to Coney Island in Brooklyn New York and opened his first restaurant. However, the hot dog hadn’t arrived on the scene when he first opened his restaurant, so he had to wait until 1916 to make his first famous "Jackson Coney Island" hot dog. Todoroff's restaurant in Jackson remains in business to this day.

AN ACT OF MADNESS

2009-09-02T20:52:00.002-04:00

AN ACT OF MADNESS: The Bath School Bombing

SEPTEMBER 15

7 P.M.

BATH UNITED METHODIST CHURCH
13777 WEBSTER ROAD
BATH, MI

FREE

Encore Performance

2009-08-26T16:21:00.007-04:00

An Act of Madness: The Bath School Bombing has been invited by the township of Bath to perform our piece for the community. Tuesday, September 15 at 7 pm is the tentative date. As soon as the place is finalized I will post details. If you were not able to catch the show or were turned away at the door, you are invited to this performance. An Act of Madness tells the heartbreaking story of one of America's worst mass murders in a school at the hands of one individual. More information to follow

e

2009-08-26T16:21:00.001-04:00

A Bird's "Eye" View

2009-08-15T20:53:00.003-04:00

The sound of chirping birds can be heard at the Long Island Railroad waiting area in Penn Station. The birds, however, are recorded, and the sound is used to guide visually impaired travelers to an automated information booth with a talking map and telephone keypad.

From LKFAWKP : New York mentioned earlier

Deconstructing Columbine

2009-08-14T12:25:00.004-04:00

I'm in the midst of reading Dave Cullen's book Columbine; I plan to go to a book reading where both he and Arnie Bernstein the author of The Bath Massacre will appear. With 20/20 hindsight and access to previously sealed documents, this book gives a complete accounting of the events that day. Along the way he debunks almost every myth you might believe about the killers, the last words of a dying student, the police, and the investigation. Incredible book. A MUST read!

The Great White Way

2009-08-12T14:36:00.005-04:00

A few weeks ago Matt Lauer of NBC's Today show did a stint as a celebrity tour guide on one of NYC's Circle Line Tours. He was asked why New York was called The Big Apple and why Broadway was called The Great White Way. He didn't know the answer but you will.

"The Great White Way" was originally the title of a 1901 book about the South Pole. The term was applied to Broadway by Shep Friedman of the New York Morning Telegraph, after a snowstorm on Broadway in 1902 had turned the street into a "white way." Later, "white way" referred to the lights of Broadway.

In a New York Minute

2009-08-11T16:59:00.003-04:00

"Thanks to an uncanny knack for getting his guests to reveal more than they ever intended (without even asking questions), James Lipton, founding Dean of the Actor's Studio and host of TV's Inside the Actor's Studio has been asked by the N.Y.P.D. to coach homicide detectives in the art of interrrogation."

Today's random fact from Little Known Facts about Well Known Places by David Hoffman. Hereafter, the acronym LKFAWKP.

Bon Appetit

2009-08-10T08:09:00.003-04:00

Julie & Julia opened this weekend. I've been dying to see this movie, so much so that I went to a 10:50 a.m. screening! Two of my favorite actresses Amy Adams and Meryl Streep; what could be better?

Meryl Streep is brilliant in this role. She channels Julia almost better than Julia. She's hilarious, tender and her relationship with her husband is a thing of beauty. Amy Adams is fabulous as well but it is really Meryl Streep's show unlike the book Julie & Julia by Julie Powell.

If you've read the book (and you should) you'll find the focus of the movie is a little different. We see and hear a good deal more about Julia than Julie. The movie is more about Julia's life than her impossible and improbable recipes. No hacking out bone marrow for gelatinous aspics of floating eggs, no puree of cauliflower and watercress with cream and sadly very little about her riotous friends. You'll have to read the book for all of that . And DO read the book.

I dug out my mom's old copy of Mastering the Art of French cooking just to see if she really described in such detail some of the processes and it did not disappoint. You could read this book for entertainment without lifting a copper pot. I think I've come to the conclusion, that although I am French through and through, French cooking would strain my delicate palate not to mention my patience. Give me Italian every time. Sorry Julia.

Soups On!

2009-08-08T22:47:00.003-04:00

I love soup but I don't really make it with one exception. This is an incredible soup! I've had a few requests for this lately so I thought I'd post it here.
Thanks to my friend Nora for passing this one along.

TORTELLINI SOUP

Chop 4 tomatoes
Brown 1 lb. Italian sausage
1 can (15 oz.) Italian tomato sauce
4 c. beef broth
1 c. chopped onion
1 clove garlic
1 c. sliced carrots
1 tsp. basil and oregano
Combine and simmer for 30 minutes

Add: 2 c. sliced zucchini or squash
1 c. mushrooms
1 chopped green pepper
1/4 c. chopped fresh parsley or 1 tsp. dried parsley
1 c. chopped dill pickle****
2 c. refrigerated type cheese tortellini
Simmer 1 hour

****this is the ingredient that makes all the difference! (of course unless you are allergic)
This recipe makes a LOT of soup. It can be frozen or give 1/2 to a friend

On the Road

2009-08-01T16:03:00.003-04:00

A bit of random trivia for Rothschild fans and cast.

Matt Ottinger, in his many travels, came across both the 1776 and Rothschilds programs from their pre/Broadway tours, in of all places an antique shop in Howell. He gave those to me the other day and I have read them cover to cover. Thank you Matt! What fun.

The Rothschilds is the most fascinating since it was on the way to its Broadway opening. As often happens a show will change along the way; scenes dropped or added, cast members changed, characters written in or out, songs rewritten or dropped. So here are some songs that we didn't get to sing:

Jew Do Your Duty
I Will Bow
Mayer's Fine Coins
William's Fine Troops
My Cousin Christian
You're a Fraud, Sir - probably Hannah's song before they wrote in the love story
Gold Smuggler's Gavotte- just think ensemble, you may have gotten to learn another dance

Crossing Over

2009-07-13T18:38:00.004-04:00

In Scouting there is a ceremony where a Cub Scout "Crosses Over" and becomes a Boy Scout. The scout master announces, "You have been called before the pack because you have satisfied the requirements for Cub Scouts' highest rank." A scout is then presented with The Arrow of Light Badge with bands of color each with its own meaning. The boys walk across a wooden bridge, usually built by some of the scouts Dad's, into the new world of Boy Scouts. Still scouts but a rank higher.

And so it is with my daughter. Still a student, not yet a full fledged doctor but doing "Dr." stuff. It's a huge transition; this crossing over from student to professional. It means 14 hour days, working days, nights, and weekends, no time for laundry, shopping, or cooking , reading charts, interpreting tests, having patients she calls "my" patient, assisting, doing, watching, and learning.

And so my brilliant, witty, caring, beautiful daughter I award to you your own Arrow of Light Badge. The meaning of the yellow of the Arrow of Light seems to transcend scouting. The scoutmaster intones: "Within the teepees of many braves, the Arrow of Light has an honored place. Its shaft is straight and narrow : just as is the path that you (Scouts) should follow throughout your life. Its tip points the way : the way to success in all that you do. It is pointing to the right : a symbol that nothing should be left undone; if it is within your power to do it, see that it is done. And lastly, this is the symbol of the seven rays of the sun, one for each day of the week; this is to remind you that every day is a new day : a day to Do Your Best in everything:

Casting Call

2009-07-10T10:36:00.002-04:00

Gearing up for Renegade, August 20-22 in Old Town, with research and rewrites to An Act of Madness.

An Act of Madness: The Bath School Massacre is a 20 minute performance piece that tells the story of that tragic day. It grabbed the headlines nationwide knocking the Lindbergh flight off the front page. It still remains the largest mass murder in a school in U.S. history including the killing rampages at Columbine, Virginia Tech and the University of Texas at Austin. It is a story however that has also been lost in history and needs to be told.

I am looking for at least two young actresses (16-20ish) to fill roles. If you're interested please email Janefal@comcast.net.

The Light in the Piazza

2009-07-07T13:22:00.004-04:00

The Light in the Piazza blog is up and running. Well, "running" might be a bit of an exaggeration but there is some early information about audition dates and a basic character breakdown. There might not be a lot of updates until closer to audition time but I will attempt to post pertinent information that you might need before auditions.

Click on the MUSICALS TITLE above to go directly to the BLOG

To get UPDATES as they are POSTED become a FOLLOWER. Click on the "Follow this blog" button.

2009-07-03T09:38:00.003-04:00

Thanks to Bill Kennedy for the lovely review of the Rothschilds in Riverwalk's Ripples

The Rothschilds: Review

In her director’s note, Jane Falion touches on the enduring appeal of The Rothschilds, as “a testament to family, dignity, honor, and unflinching tenacity against all odds… [and] a story that transcends time….” Having seen her expert adaptation of this mighty musical, one might employ those same descriptors for her cast, crew, and production!

With more characters than an entire season of Riverwalk black box, more musicians than a downtown “Blues on the Square” concert, and more costumes than the annual Tony Awards, this cast and crew of “more than a few” pull off a tour de force at once powerful and poignant, epic and intimate.

The Rothschilds, by Sherman Yellen and Sheldon Harnick, music by Jerry Bock, tells the true tale of the remarkable rise of this international banking family, from its plebeian plantings in the Jewish ghetto of 18th century Frankfort to its patrician blossoming in the courts and capitals of 19th century Europe.

Lead protagonist Mayer Rothschild is affectionately and energetically portrayed by Riverwalk regular Doak Bloss, who wins over audience hearts from the start as a humble and hardworking Jewish shopkeeper in love. By show’s end he is no less admirable as the principled patriarch and endearing entrepreneur behind Rothschild and Sons!

Mayer’s loving wife, Gutele, is tenderly played by Colleen Bethea. The cornerstone on which he builds his familial and financial foundations, she gives him five sons (four in one song!), tempers his temper (though not his resolve) regarding anti-Semitism, and moderates his monetary concerns, reminding him, “We have enough. We have each other.”

Joel Reynolds (Amshel), Dominic Redman (Solomon), Nic Roberts (Nathan), and Lexie Roberts (Jacob) sparkle as the young Rothschild boys, while Scott Larson, Simon Tower, Joseph Baumann, and Logan Emlet, with Danny Bethea (Kalman), shine as their elder counterparts after a transition made mid-song.

While his brothers emigrate throughout Europe in search of financial advantage, Nathan heads for London to invest the family’s ever-multiplying money. He eventually woos and weds the spirited Hannah Cohen, staged by Sarah Sonnenberg. While all five brothers fight for Jewish justice abroad, their parents stay home to battle the ghetto from within.

The text is “on the money” with a “wealth” of ageless aphorisms, advising:
“There is no virtue in riches. There is none in poverty either. Only in the acts of man;” revealing: “War makes money, peace makes money, but money makes money most of all;” and warning: “You think your new power can change the world. It won’t. It will only change you.”

Two thumbs up for Tom Klunzinger in his two distinct renderings of two distinguished princes (William and Metternich) — in two successive acts. He was simply “two much!” And two hands two-gether for Matt Lago, Rich Helder, and Patrick Monroe (vendors), Cameron Bethea and Scotty Arbour (urchins), and Matt Szymanski and Paul Gordon (bankers).

Additional acting credit to Jeff Massey (Joseph Fouche and Herries),
Tony Zappa (Buderus), Alan Bloomfield (Blum), Lindsay Palinsky (pauper), and Mark Bethea (swing), as well as Theresa Spisak (Mrs. Kaufman), Mara Schaberg (Mrs. Segal), Laura Johnson (Mrs. Feldman), Donna Green (Mrs. Rosen), and Charlotte Rupert (Mrs. Greenberg).

On the technical end, kudos to those responsible for the set, scenery, and properties, for the sound, music, and lighting, and of course for the costuming! From the grand attire and courtly cadence of the European ballroom to the red-shifting and transcendent tension at the nightly closing of the Jewish ghetto, the atmosphere was tangible.

So thanks to Larry Savoie (master builder and technician), Bob Nees and Tim Stapleton (design technicians), Tim Fox (lighting design), Ray Kurtis and Melody Teodoro-Kurtis (properties and set dressing), Dan Moore (hair design), Javier Rivera (hair assistant), Ruth Jean (clarinet), Andrew Herrbach (trumpet), Jackie Bernott (flute), and Jesse Slocum (bass).

And congratulations to Jane Falion (director), Rich Helder (assistant
director), Tom Ferris (producer), Roberta Otten (choreographer), James Geer (music director and keyboards), Val Lea (stage manager), Jane Falion (again!) and her four assistants (scenic design), Mary K. Hodges-Nees and her ten technicians (costuming!), and the full stage and running crews.

—Bill Kennedy

Hear! Hear!

2009-06-23T22:56:00.002-04:00

Bravo!!
Congratulations to The Rothschilds' Barney Winners:

Colleen Bethea....Best Lead Actress in a Musical,
Joe Baumann...Best Supporting Actor in a Musical,
Scott Larson, Simon Tower, Joe Baumann, Logan Emlet, Danny Bethea...Best Ensemble
Mary K Hodges Nees...Best Costumes
Ray and Melody Kurtis...Properties

Transition! Transition!

2009-06-19T21:00:00.005-04:00

To all my friends, family, and dear readers of this blog;

You may notice that for a week or so there will be a post or two or even more about The Rothschilds, the musical I just finished directing, and perhaps a new ones ortwo on the Rothschilds'blog. It is addicting! I ask for your patience. I'm trying to transition from an intense, all consuming 12 weeks of rehearsals, comraderie, hard work, and just plain fun into returning to a "normal" existence. I'm resuming the Jane in the Jungle blog and phasing out The Rothschilds blog.

As I mentioned on Facebook one night, "I am bereft. Closing a show is like losing your best friend." It is a real loss and there is a time of mourning. We call it the post show blues, kind of like post- partum blues. You can't go through an intense experience like either without feeling a bit of loss, aimlessness and sadness.

Thank you to my dear, dear friend Wendy who reminded me that SHE was still here and that I hadn't lost my best friend afterall.

"Over a 1,000 props"

2009-06-19T17:09:00.006-04:00

(Click chandelier photo to go to story)

As stories go, the one about the number of props in The Rothschild's and the value of the chandelier took on epic proportions. But it doesn't take epic proportions to fit the props from a closing Hollywood prop store into just one of The Rothschild's palaces.

A sad commentary on our precarious times.

(Thanks to Mary K for the link)

A Royal Vacation

2009-06-17T18:12:00.010-04:00

I've just spent the most amazing three months with the fascinating Rothschild family; Mayer and his 5 sons and the various Crowned Heads of Europe including Prince William of Prussia, Prince Metternich of Austria, Joseph Fouche, Napoleon's Minister of Police, and John Herries, the King of England's Exchequer.

With great regret and sadness, I have returned to the real world from the fantasy world of the theatre and a whirlwind round of royal parties.

After an intense 3 months of rehearsals we opened The Rothschilds at Riverwalk Theatre on June 4 and had an amazing run. The show garnered fabulous reviews, accolades, great press and some very nice awards.

The Lansing State Journal awarded our show 6 of them

Doak Bloss.......Best Lead Actor, Joe Baumann.....Best Supporting Actor, Mary K. Nees Hodges.....Best Costumes, Dan Moore....Best Hair Design, Joel Reynolds, Dominic Redman, Nic Roberts, and Lexie Roberts.....Best Child Actors, and myself for Best Direction of a Musical.

Hear! Hear!

On Vacation

2009-03-25T23:03:00.002-04:00

I'm pooped already!

In case you haven't noticed this blog has not been updated for a while. I'm back to working full time for about four months and trying to direct a show at the same time, so Jane in the Jungle needs a little vacation.

However, The Rothschild's blog with all kind of interesting stuff will be updated frequently.

The show has been cast and I'm excited to start blogging about the fascinating Rothschild family with a smattering of history as well. The blog will be more than just a show blog. it will be crammed with all kinds of interesting tidbits and trivia.

So from now until June 4 when the show opens please visit me at.......

www.rothschildsatriverwalk.blogspot.com

2009-03-10T19:25:00.001-04:00

file:///Users/Jane/Desktop/Messiano

Celebrate! Celebrate! Dance to the Music

2009-03-02T15:46:00.003-05:00

It's March!

As Robin Williams said, " Spring is Nature's way of saying, 'Let's Party.'"

So what's so great about March? Well....

19 days until Spring

21 days until Auditions for The Rothschilds.

26 days until Katie's 25th birthday. Happy Birthday Kate!

We celebrate Women's History month, St. David's Day, National Reading Day, Mardi Gras, St. Patrick's Day, and St. Joseph's Day. And of course, "Beware the Ides of March".

Some March milestones....

Alexander Graham Bell was born
a 30 mph speed limit was in effect in "built up" areas is 1935
in 1886 Coca Cola was introduced
in 1889 the Eiffel Tower opened
the "birthstones" of aquamarine and bloodstone means Courage

So take courage, Winter is almost over and Spring is on its way.

Let's party!

34 Days And Counting

2009-02-17T19:40:00.004-05:00

A continuing reminder about the upcoming auditions for the musical THE ROTHSCHILDS.

AUDITIONS MARCH 22 AND 23 AT RIVERWALK THEATRE.

For more detailed information click on the Rothschilds link under "All The World's a Stage" to the right or go to www.rothschildsatriverwalk.blogspot.com

Prayer Bead Workshop

2009-02-15T16:03:00.003-05:00

Are you longing for a way to bring more spirituality into your life? Are you looking for a practice that will focus your attention on meditation, prayer and growth?

If so, please join me a People's Church, 200 W. Grand River, East Lansing for a contemporary prayer bead workshop. We will be designing and making nondenominational prayer beads that are unique to you and will reflect your own story and journey. You'll learn about the history of beads and prayer beads, color and number theory, and jewelry making basics and techniques.

The workshop is Saturday, February 28 from 9-12 and the cost is $15. No experience is necessary.

Interested? Contact Robin Weber 332-5073

to sign up and receive a materials list and further information.

This workshop is ideal for women's groups, spirituality groups, church organizations, libraries, and shops . If you are interested in hosting a workshop please email me at Janefal@comcast.net

Happy Valentines Day

2009-02-14T08:57:00.000-05:00

May it be a sweet treat of a day.

The Story Guys

2009-02-10T14:34:00.003-05:00

My friend Tom and his partner Scott, The Story Guys, are back with another hilarious video and I wanted to let everyone know about them. The StoryGuys have started a project called Stories From The Heart: Gay and Non-Gay Perspectives. They're running a series of videos on You Tube where you can find them. The purpose of the project is to collect stories from individuals about being gay, coming out, feelings about being gay, stories from non gay friends about their gay friends etc. The plan is to turn the stories into a play.

So check them out; watch their videos, subscribe to them. follow them, send them videos or stories.

Flash theatre

2009-02-09T15:40:00.001-05:00

Take an empty stage, 2 timers, 45 minutes, some of the best directors I have ever worked with, 3 judges, honest and specific written and verbal criticism immediately following your show, points, and advancement at stake. Will you live to perform another day?

At the end of the day, when the shouting, crying, applause, awards are over the best part starts. Your prize? Two more weeks to "fix" everything; redesign, re-block. re-write, re-costume - all or none of them. Crazy you say? Yes. But, oh so invigorating and challenging! It puts the "life" in "live" theatre. These are the elements of the MIFA Theatre Festival open to high schools across Michigan

High School? Wait. High school? Isn't that just "high school" theatre. A resounding, absolutely not! I have had the pleasure and privilege (hmmm, sound like a show tune- Rothschilds perhaps?) to compete and judge this festival over the past 15 years and I have a passion for it.

The challenge? Find the "perfect" show for that year's genre and start slashing. Remember that 45 minutes mentioned earlier? Schools have exactly 45 minutes and not 1 second more , hence the timers, (unless they want to be penalized 5 points per judge, essentially knocking them out of competition) to put up the set, perform, strike and clear the stage completely.

I have seen some amazing shows and we aren't talking about "high school" one acts (although less savvy directors have fallen to prey to their easy format); Moliere, Ibsen, Neil Simon, Ragtime, Terra Nova, Once on This Island, Seven Brides for Seven Brothers, Noises Off , Museum, On the Verge to name a few.

This weekend across the state the shows that advanced in districts are performing at regionals where 1 show out of 6 will advance to states with an additional 5+ of the top ranking shows. the following week 13 shows will be at States in Chelsea. I plan to be there both days. Despite the fact that I see almost 60 shows a year, I'll rearrange my schedule, double up on the shows for several weekends so I can be free to sit back and enjoy. In fact, I could sit in the auditorium hour and hour and watch with fascination as kids work together during spike time to as an ensemble to practice moving the set on, spike, checking lights,sound levels, costumes, and projection.

As to those amazing directors. I will name them here because they are my theatre "gods"; the master of them all and winning dozens of State titles is KEVIN SCHNEIDER. You may remember Kevin when he was working and costuming here in Lansing. He's at Holland High School. Kevin will get a show out of districts and sometimes redesign the whole thing. I have known him to redesign a costume or two at states because they clashed with the theatre's seats. He's also been known to redesign an entire set before States. And he probably holds the record and works hard at getting a show timed between 43:30 and 45:00 on the nose. Malcolm Tulip formerly at A2Community and now a main stay at The Performance Network, Phil Walker at Chelsea High School. Joanne Peterson at Grand Rapids City, Jeannie Gilbert at Bay City John Glenn, and Nancy Fitzgerald at Grand Rapids Christian to name a few.

BFF Update

2009-02-04T17:20:00.003-05:00

I am shocked that it has taken me so long to follow up with the most extraordinary news. If you remember a few posts ago I wrote about my new best friend, Craig Wilson, a columnist with USA Today.

So....several days after posting I received a wonderfully wry email from Craig! (I can call him that, Craig, because after all we are best friends).

Two emails later and we had made plans to get together for drinks on a porch in an undisclosed upstate New York location but I'm pretty sure we're talking hypotheticals here.

Thanks Wendy for passing the blog along!

Welcome to Shirley

2009-01-25T20:21:00.005-05:00

Shirley, Long Island was a "hardscrabble service town to the glittering Hamptons" but to Kelly McMasters it was an idyllic town in which to grow up; close knit neighborhood, block parties, a group of girlfriends to hang out with and explore the wildlife refuge that was next to their subdivision, Fourth of July barbecues, and neighbors that watched out for you. But Shirley was also located next to the deadly toxic nuclear plant called Brookhaven National Laboratory which for years was leaking deadly chemicals into the groundwater.

Kelly watched her neighbors and friends become ill and die, the nuclear plant become a Superfund site, and the town's attempt to resurrect itself through a new identity." It is at times a love song to the town and a heartbreaking story of loss."

I was drawn to this memoir because I grew up on Long Island. We passed by the signs to Shirley every time we headed out to Montauk Point during summers. Although the name Brookhaven Lab was as familiar to me as Grumman Aircraft, I really had no idea what they did. I always assumed it was just another scientific lab doing biological, wildlife or fisheries research. Long Island has a lot of those. I had no idea that nuclear experiments were going on there or that evacuation plans were in place in case of a nuclear meltdown. I had no idea that it was built in a place that was supposed to be far away from major population centers because of the nature of the atomic work that was being conducted there. I had no idea that Brookhaven was home to so many nuclear reactors.

It is a scathing look at how "environmental injustice" works.

Coming to America

2009-01-18T15:37:00.005-05:00

I have a pen fetish. I admit it. I'm not alone. I even got my daughter hooked!

Several years ago, when Katie was teaching in Thailand, her roommate bought her a set of Stabilo pens for Christmas. She loved them. I loved them.

Thus began my search for the elusive Stabilo in America. For months I looked in every office supply and art store I came across. I googled STABILO dozens of times and got nothing. Lots of Staedtlers, no Stabilos.

I begged my daughter to bring back Stabilos when she returned from Thailand. She very graciously did so. But my stash is low.

I went to the Student Book Store in E.L., adjacent to MSU, to find some different highlighter colors, beyond the basic 5. I'm directing a play; I need lots of highlighters. SBS and I'm sure every college bookstore anywhere usually has the greatest selection of single pens. pencils, highlighter etc.

It was in among the other pens that I spotted them!! Singles, minis, pkgs. of 12, pkgs. of 18! I was in pen heaven. So along with the purple, pineapple, and azure highlighters, I purchased 2 Stabilo pointVisco gel pens. Just two. I restrained myself. It was tough. It took will power. However, I know where the mother lode is.

Today when I googled Stabilo I came up with 250,00 hits! Yes, Stabilo has come to America in a big way and everything is right with the universe.

Let Them Eat Cake

2009-01-14T14:16:00.006-05:00

The other night I was baking a cake. It was cold, it was miserable, I needed, no, not needed but wanted, comfort food even if it meant breaking the New Year's resolution. Extreme cold and MORE snow can do that to you.

So I was in the middle of adding the ingredients to the cake mix and went to measure the 1/2 c. of oil only to discover I had a scant 1/4 c. and no more. So I figured a little oil was better than none, and come to think of it, when did cake mixes start adding oil at all?

So began the QUEST through food land.

I was sure that cake mixes did not always require oil. Water, yes. Eggs, yes but oil? Was it economics? Did cake companies eliminate some other ingredient that achieved the same result to cut costs and then ask the consumer to provide its equivalent? Was some other ingredient heavy on the hydrogenated oil and eliminated for health reasons? (I mean really, this is a cake we're talking about) In the recent past, we were enticed into adding pudding mix to our cakes and substituting applesauce for the oil for a lower fat alternative.(again, cake) Was I losing my mind?

I finally found a partial answer from the amazing people at foodtimeline. I found an incredibly thorough treatise on the history of cakes that covered every cake ever made along with recipes. It is truly an amazing site. Katie and Anne, especially Anne, and all foodies, you need to check it out. I discovered that General Mills developed the first "Add water and Mix" cake mix, ginger cake, for their Betty Crocker campaign. They were also in development for their PartyCake line; yellow, spice, white cakes. In 1948 Pillsbury introduced the first chocolate cake mix and in 1951 Duncan Hines introduced their "Three Star Surprise" mix. Not sure what that meant! Any way, Ginger cake became Gingerbread and Cookie Mix. (And by the way, when did Gingerbread mix start adding eggs along with the water? Another quest.)

"Add water and mix" cakes were not selling as well as companies had hoped. They enlisted the help of psychologists who did research and discovered that eggs were the problem; powdered eggs to be exact. They believed that woman should add a few fresh eggs to give them "a sense of creative contribution." Research also found that when companies make things too simple they are rejected. Remember this was the 50's.

At the bottom of the site was a "Contact Us" link, which I did. And thus began my conversation with Lynne. I contacted her in the evening and received a response that night. I replied to her response and the following day got more clarification.

Apparently it was in 1972 that Duncan Hines ran an add in the New York Times touting their cake mixes that now included the phrase "add 1/2 c. vegetable oil." So there it was, part of the mystery solved. My sanity was restored.

I still don't know why. I'll save that for another cold and snowy day.

Thanks to the people at http://www.foodtimeline.org/foodcakes

God Grew Tired of Us

2009-01-12T17:27:00.003-05:00

I've been meaning to read this book for forever. I seem to be drawn to books about Africa.

This memoir is told through the eyes of 13 year old John Bul Dau who was driven from his home in 1987 by invading troops from the north and separated from his family in the civil war that was ravaging Sudan. He wandered for 14 years from refugee camp to refugee camp from the Sudan to Ethiopia to Kenya starving, thirsty, often hunted by invading soldiers.

It is an incredible story of terror, survival, and, yes, matter of fact humor. John emigrated to the United Sates in 2001 under the auspices of Lutheran Refugee Services

BFF

2009-01-08T20:02:00.002-05:00

I don't think I've ever written to anyone "famous" before. I'd too embarrassed. I mean really, who am I among the millions of other adoring fans?

But the time may have come. You see I have a new BFF, only he doesn't know it yet.

His name is Craig and we are soul mates; the same age, born the same year, in the same month, in NY, we owned the same first car he even knows where Schroon Lake is located. He reads my mind and channels my thoughts. I think we had the same Dad, or at least the same "Dad" garages.

I've been dying to tell him he's my new BFF and, hopefully, my new email pen pal but then there's that "millions of OTHER adoring fans" thing. I would be lost in the madding crowd.

You see, Craig is a little famous; he's a writer,a well known one with a really big paper (USA Today) .

I wait with baited breath for the Wednesday edition of USA Today. I discard all the other sections and go straight to Life, front page, below the fold. And there he is....Craig Wilson and The Final Word.

He writes about his dog, his partner, his Dad, finding a good contractor (too bad he doesn't live in MI, I'd send Larry over) and I cried when he wrote about losing his friend Vicki. I applauded his standing ovation inflation column. I think the only thing we don't agree on is camping. I mean, how can a boy growing up in upstate NY not like camping? Just normal everyday things; the little things. The stuff that is Life.

Lately I've become worried. After all, I know Craig's age! I'm afraid that one day I will open the paper and read that's he's decided to retire and lie on the beaches of Florida working on the ultimate tan.

So, Happy New Year Craig, my new BFF. I'll be in touch.

Has NY Dropped the Ball?

2009-01-02T22:15:00.008-05:00

In the last 60 seconds of 2008, as millions of people around the world watched, the ball in Times Square dropped to usher in the new year.

Did you see it?

No really, did you actually see the ball drop? Or did you see it descend, shuffle, shimmy, wobble, creep, slither or fall in excruciating slow motion? Or maybe you were blinded by the 5 giant, brilliantly lit, smoke and fireworks sprouting Toshiba signs below it along with the giant Toshiba countdown screen. Even at 12' it was hard to see the ball awash in all that light. If you were watching ABC's Dick Clark's Rockin' Eve with Ryan Seacrest you may have have missed it altogether.and nary a replay in sight.

I am mourning the days when the ball actually dropped. They let it loose from it's tether at the top of the flagpole and it dropped like a lead balloon; swiftly, quickly, rapidly like the speed of light. If you blinked you would miss it.

Things changed in the 1980's when a red and a green lit "big apple" globe were added to celebrate NY's "I Love New York" campaign. In 1988 the flashy era ended and the ball was once again lit with plain white lights. In 1989 however the ball had it's first major face lift and rhinestones and strobes were added. The biggest change happened in 2000, the millennium year, when a massive 1,0750 lb ball was built with Waterford Crystals. This year the ball is even bigger, more expensive, double in size to 12' in diameter, 11, 875 lbs with 2668 Waterford Crystals and 32,000 LED lights.

Gone are the days of 400 lb, 5', iron and wood ball featuring 25 watt lights in 1904. Gone also is the ball I remember watching every year from 1955 to the late 1980's to the tunes of Guy Lombardo's band as I watched the elegantly dressed party goers dancing the night away in the Waldorf Astoria ballroom; a slimmer, 2oo lb version made of aluminum with simple white lights.

Now THAT was the ball that DROPPED!

I Suppose this is Supposed to Make Sense

2009-01-01T17:52:00.009-05:00

Disclaimer: Grammar Rant. Many more to come!

I love Lynne Truss, the author of Eats, Shoots & Leaves: The Zero Tolerance Approach to Punctuation. She is a grammar maven when it comes to the incorrect use of punctuation and I must admit I can be a bit of a grammar stickler myself. It must be the English teacher still channeling inside me.

I'm in good company though. Frank McCourt, the author of Angela's Ashes said, "If Lynn Truss were Roman Catholic I'd nominate her for sainthood."

At least I'm in the company of saints. Please keep that in mind as you read on.

My pet peeve this week surfaced in one of the holiday newsletters I received. I suppose I shouldn't have been so upset but there were so many errors on so many levels that my grammar radar was blipping like crazy. The biggest offense? The misuse of the words suppose and supposed.

Some gentle enlightenment, dear readers.

SUPPOSE- most commonly means think, guess, imagine.
SUPPOSED- means required or obliged. Supposed can also mean mistakenly believed as in "Her supposed friend failed to support her in her disagreement."

"Suppose your friends don't come when the are supposed to?"
"I suppose it's supposed to snow tonight"
"Am I supposed to care?"

I suppose this will never reach the people who are supposed to benefit by this but I suppose I feel better now.

Celebration!

2008-12-31T12:42:00.003-05:00

(New Year's Eve Thai Style. Lighting the Khom Loys or hot air balloons)

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

A few pithy thoughts to usher in the year.

Be always at war with your vices, at peace with your neighbors, and let each new year find you a better man. ~Benjamin Franklin

Mark Twain
New Year's is a harmless annual institution, of no particular use to anybody save as a scapegoat for promiscuous drunks, and friendly calls and humbug resolutions.

James Agate
New Year's Resolution: To tolerate fools more gladly, provided this does not encourage them to take up more of my time.

Bill Vaughan
An optimist stays up until midnight to see the New Year in. A pessimist stays up to make sure the old year leaves.

Oprah Winfrey
Cheers to a New Year and another chance for us to get it right.

Slumdog Millionaire

2008-12-30T16:09:00.003-05:00

A movie not to be missed!!! This incredible movie tells the story of an impoverished Indian teen who becomes a contestant on the Hindi version of "Who Wants to Be a Millionaire." But how is it possible that he knows so much? He must have cheated, but how? He's arrested and tortured for the answer. Each of the show's questions intersects his life in some way and leads him to reveal a part of his story growing up in the slums of Mumbai.

Light My Fire

2008-12-26T10:06:00.007-05:00

A light connected and sparked to life in my brain the other day. It was an epiphany; the cartoon version of the light bulb that goes off in the brain. An item appeared on TV the other day that opened a floodgate of nostalgic memories. My synapses hadn't even fired before over this hot story but it ignited and crackled across the media. CBS was consumed with thousands of complaints and worried emails about it dying out or worse yet, update it. It sparked a center page article in the New York Times.

Was it because it was normal for me; a part of my growing up, as common as trees? Was it because I took it for granted and assumed it was ongoing? Was it because as an adult I no longer needed it because I already had a real one?

But I am on a burning mission now. I must have one. A "real" one. I MUST have a Yule Log DVD. It MUST be as "original"as possible. Only the burning log with the old classic songs by Bing Crosby and Nat King Cole. Not that cartooney updated version with the old holiday radio programs playing underneath.

You see, I grew up in New York. Since 1966 I watched the WPIX Yule log burn away on my TV screen, at first in black and white and then in color, every Christmas. As a teenager I was the night owl that turned off the TV in the family room after my mother had long fallen asleep in front of the burning log.

I grew up, moved away, bought a house with a fireplace and never thought of it again except to wonder at the foolishness of people who were buying roaring fire DVD's; until this year.

The CBS Morning Program did a story about the WPIX inspiration for the Yule log. I think the juxtaposition of the words WPIX and YULE LOG is what fired up the synapses. So a warm wave of memories wafted over me. WPIX cancelled the show in 1989 amongst a firestorm of complaints but in 2001 they fanned the embers and brought it back to life. After CBS aired the story the other day, panicky New Yorkers were woried that there were plans once again to exstinguish the fire. CBS put a damper on their fears but as the New York Times says, "Still, if the current financial crisis has taught us anything, it's that it is wise to hedge bets."

So hedging my bets I am. Unfortunately, WPIX never produced an authentic version on DVD but there are others that are close, namely "The Original Christmas Yule Log Fireplace".

So I'm on a mission. Anyone have one they want to dump? Anyone know where to get one?

"Let There Be Peace on Earth"

2008-12-24T15:12:00.003-05:00

(St. Peter's Basillica, Rome, 2008, (c.) Jane Falion)

"If we have no peace, it is because we have forgotten that we belong to each other."

(Mother Theresa)

Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, and Peace

Bailey the Unknown Reindeer

2008-12-22T14:47:00.002-05:00

Thought I'd share this You Tube video.

Snowed In

2008-12-20T20:33:00.003-05:00

14" of it! Larry was up north so it was "my" 14" to shovel with a little help from Katie and John. It was one of those eerie snows where no one ventured out and the roads were almost empty. We had to. Katie had a hair appointment and you don't mess with your stylist.

But the best part is that feeling that there is NOTHING pressing to do. The "snow day effect" a day off that is unexpected and leaves you with nothing you have to do.

So we snuggled in; hot tubbed and watched an old Audrey Hepburn movie, my request, Roman Holiday. Ah, what joy.

One Man's White Elephant, Another Man's Golden Goose

2008-12-16T09:09:00.008-05:00

It's that time of year again. The annual theatre get together and white elephant exchange. So I am digging deep to find an appropriate gift. The white elephants have been losing their luster lately so I want to be up to the challenge. In the last 30 years we have had some GREAT white elephants. Elvis busts embellished as they are passed on year to year, local artistic talent, a statue of George Bernard Shaw, an elephant, African carvings to name a few. Even the singing Billy the Bass was a hit the first year it was around.

When the kids were little I would buy them their "white elephants" and sneak them into the mix and amazingly they got some really good stuff. Of course they probably don't have a clue as what a real white elephant is, metaphorically speaking. (See description below)

In years past I was a little racy with my choices until one ended up in the hands of a 14 year old boy who is now well into his thirties/forties? and a dear colleague of mine. Somewhere in my house there has to be at least 2 (Larry and I) really good choices if only I can find them. Any ideas?

A white elephant

Meaning

A burdensome possession; creating more trouble than it is worth.

Origin

White (albino) elephants were regarded as holy in ancient times in Thailand and other Asian countries. Keeping a white elephant was a very expensive undertaking, since the owner had to provide the elephant with special food and provide access for people who wanted to worship it. If a Thai King became dissatisfied with a subordinate, he would give him a white elephant. The gift would, in most cases, ruin the recipient.

References to Indian and Thai veneration of white elephants dates back to at least the early 17th century. The first reference in English to the idiomatic meaning of the term 'white elephant' comes in 1851 G. E. Jewbury's Letters, 1892:

"His services are like so many white elephants, of which nobody can make use, and yet that drain one's gratitude, if indeed one does not feel bankrupt."

"Synecdoche: A Part of Life That Makes Us Whole"*

2008-12-16T09:08:00.009-05:00

Synecdoche. What a great word! Almost as good as proclivity.

I have just been reminded of the clever William Safire and his On Language column in the New York Times Sunday Magazine.

His wit and pen turn this week to the confusion between Synecdoche and Metonymy. Now I know the word synecdoche but didn't realize it had a cousin, metonymy.

So a little elucidation.

Metonymy- identifies a person or a thing by something closely associated with it. For example "the brass" in the military, "the crown" for royalty and "the suits" for business executives.

Synecdoche uses the part to refer to the whole like "wheels" for a car and "head" for cattle and "troops" for individuals in the military branches.

So, at your next cocktail party toss those tidbits into the conversation.

*Headline by Philip Kenicott of The Washington Post

Missing Mike

2008-12-16T08:26:00.006-05:00

Mike Hughes, long time Lansing State Journal entertainment writer was "downsized" right out of a job a week or so ago. We've all noticed how the paper has been shrinking in size, paper quality, local stories which no longer look so local, and now a talented writer!

Mike has been the performing arts writer since at least 1972 when I first moved to Lansing. He wrote about my shows and everyone else's. He reviewed them all; some we liked others we didn't. We may not have always agreed with him, we might not have always gotten the coverage we hoped for but he covered everyone! He wrote thousands of preview articles for us all. Not just theatre but art, music and of course, TV. He wrote about my wedding and even put it on the from page of the What's On section. He has hosted the Journal's Thespies Awards for just as long as I can remember. He will be missed.

All of us in the arts will feel the impact. It's not the ads that bring people into our venues but the human interest stories told about our events. It's the hook that makes people want to come to theatre, or attend a dance concert, or go to the symphony.

Please take a moment to write the Lansing State Journal and tell them what Mike meant to your organization.

Thinking Outside the Box

2008-12-02T19:15:00.005-05:00

Which leads me to ask, When you buy a Box Set aren't you buying a set of boxes? But if you are buying a Boxed Set the boxed becomes the adjective describing some noun or object such as a boxed set of Harry Potter books or a boxed set of Star Wars DVD's.

Macaroni Grill Comes to Lansing

2008-12-02T18:31:00.003-05:00

Well not exactly. I'm a huge fan of Macaroni Grill but there is not one anywhere near my home in the Lansing area. How can that be? So when I have to go out of town I always Google to see if there is one in the area in which I'm traveling. Even then my schedule is so crazy that a meal there usually doesn't work out.

So the other day as I was browsing the shelves at my local Meijer and there is was! A boxed dinner. Not usually a fan of the boxed dinner but it was worth a shot. Surprisingly it was excellent. Certainly not as good as the restaurant but this is a pretty sophisticated packaged dinner. You add the chicken that you saute in olive oil. Pasta, seasoning, tomato sauce and Parmesan cheese are all the components as you put this fabulous meal together.

We had the Tomato Herb and Garlic Penne.

Winter Storm Warning

2008-12-01T16:04:00.004-05:00

Our first BIG snow of the year.

The "Face"* that Launched a Thousand Words

2008-11-29T10:42:00.006-05:00

*for further explanation of the use of the quotation mark check out Kate's very funny take on it at drkatie...(linked here)

FACEBOOK, that is. I've finally been pressured and guilted into creating a Facebook account; this, the woman who has had a blog for the past two years and has talked others into starting their blogs! So, a little late to the game but fully engaged now.

And I thought being a part of the blogosphere was time consuming. You could get lost for weeks in the Facebook world. But such fun.

So check me out on Facebook; friend me, write me, call me, follow me, whatever.

My Favorite Things

2008-11-27T11:30:00.002-05:00

"Raindrops on roses, whiskers on kittens, bright copper kettles, warm woolen mittens. (Seriously??)

No, no, not those favorite things. I'm talking about the security questions your bank or credit union asks you to answer before you can log on. So on the surface they seem reasonable, a good way to prevent unauthorized users into your account, a nice sense of security knowing my bank is trying to thwart identity thieves. But lately I've been locked out of my account so many times because I couldn't answer the security question.

I mean really, who could, when you're asked such inane questions as your "favorite" food, movie, song, book or restaurant? What happened to those old standbys like your mother's maiden name, the name of your pet, the town in which you were born, the high school you attended. Now those answers stand the test of time.

My favorite restaurant? Hmmm. I really like Grand Traverse Pie Company but I go to Paneras a lot. I also like Cosi, Chipotle, and McAllisters. But do they qualify as bonafide restaurants? Maybe I should say Glynn's Inn the fabulous restaurant in Huntington where we dined every week or The Mont D'or who had to die for veal piccata and crisp puffy potatoes that I've never been able to find anywhere else.

How many chances to do I get to answer this question before I'm locked out?

Ok, so let's try favorite book? So do I list the book I'm reading now? My favorite childhood book? The other dozens of books that I say, "Oh, I loved that book."

Movies? No. Songs? Just one? How about a genre like Broadway. But will I remember I said Broadway?

So now I'm getting frustrated. Why don't I get to choose my questions? Not just choose someone else's choices as questions? You know this is only going to get worse as time (read age) goes on.

So maybe the solution is to keep a copy of your answers by the computer and on you at all times in case you forget your favorite things. So do they qualify as "favorite" things anymore? And isn't that a huge breech of security?

Change of Address

2008-11-23T18:22:00.005-05:00

One of my dearest friends is moving....FAR, FAR away.

She just sent me an email with her new address. But, I refuse to change her address at least not yet. If I don't change her address I can make believe she's still here in Michigan. After all we talk on our cell phones, and who knows where we catch each other, and we email, could be from anywhere but I prefer to think from her HOME in Michigan.

I know at some point I will have to change her address if I want to send her a real card, although those e-cards are pretty darn cute or when I send a gift. I could probably hold this one at bay for almost a year since we will absolutely get together in Michigan to celebrate Christmas and her birthday isn't for another 9 months! Maybe by then I will be OK. Her husband's company is based here and he, and of course she, will be back every 6 weeks or so. At least that's their story.

So I'm going to bury my head in the sand and blithely go about my life picturing Wendy here in Michigan. Maybe that will help me not miss her so much.

Funny No Matter What Side You Were On

2008-11-23T12:58:00.008-05:00

I received this hilarious video from Carol Guest, our tireless Obama field director, that is so spot on I thought I would share it. It doesn't matter if you are an Obama or McCain supporter you will find this amusing.

What IS sad is that I so readily identify with the feelings expressed. In fact, right after the election, I wrote about the feeling of being at loose ends after the campaign as identical to what we in theatre call Post Show Blues. You spent enormous amounts of time day after day working with others on achieving a collective goal; electing a new president or putting on a show. When you reach that goal and the candidate wins or the show opens then closes there is a euphoria followed by a sadness and a sense of loss.

Fortunately I WAS in the middle of doing a show so the day after the election I had a rehearsal and a new purpose in life to help me get over it!

But.....I still haven't been able to delete my Obama Supporters group from my email list and I sometimes find myself secretly whispering to acquaintances, "Were you an Obama supporter" before I launch into another ancedote or suggesting a new video to Watch

http://vids.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=vids.individual&videoid=45932089

Tis the Season

2008-11-20T14:01:00.002-05:00

Join me at the Holt Cheerful Holidays Sale

Saturday, November 22, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Holt High School, 5885 W. Holt Road.

Along with my other jewelry, I will have some new pieces including NEW VINTAGE POSTCARD PINS, CHAKRA BRACELETS, HUMANITY BRACELETS, BOOK BLING, AND KAZURI BEAD JEWELRY.

I'm very excited to be using KAZURI beads in my jewelry. They are made by women in Kenya and through the sale of their beautiful beads they are able to support upwards of 20 family members.

Glitter and Glow

2008-11-11T20:29:00.003-05:00

The holiday season is upon us. Start it off with a delightful Christmas Home Tour and Craft show in historic Mason.

I'll have jewelry and many new designs along with Helen's antiques, collectibles, yard and garden art, Christmas trees, Snowmen, clocks, tables, bath products and lots of gift items.

THE IRON PIG ANTIQUES

611 E.COLUMBIA RD.

1 Mile E. of Meridian Road

NOVEMBER 13, 14 & 15

Thursday and Friday 9 am. to 9 pm.

Saturday 9 am. to 5 pm.

Look for the numbered house signs...We are House # 6. Maps are available at all houses.

Our Moment is Now

2008-11-05T15:12:00.002-05:00

In Barack Obama's words, "There is a moment in the life of every generation when, if we are to make our mark on history, the spirit must break through. This is the moment. This is our time."

Last night was euphoric. I am so glad I acted on my feelings and dreams and got involved with the Obama campaign. It was an amazing time.

The hooping and hollering and tears of joy have been shed replaced by a weird sort of floating feeling. There are no more phone calls to make, walk packs to complete or doors to knock on. Sort of like post show blues. Now it should get really exciting!

VOTE!

2008-11-04T12:46:00.003-05:00

Don't forget to VOTE today! Your VOTE does count. So grab a chair, some snacks, some good reading material and head to the polls. Right now is a great time to go to the polls.

Remember; as long as you are in line by the time your polls close you can still VOTE!

Also, it is still not too late to volunteer for a few hours. Yes! Today.

Happy Halloween

2008-10-30T18:39:00.002-04:00

Afternoon of the Fawn

2008-10-29T17:40:00.003-04:00

A view from the window the other afternoon.

Les Mis Obama

2008-10-27T21:37:00.002-04:00

For theatre loving fans of either persuasion!

Knock for Barack

2008-10-24T17:45:00.005-04:00

11 Days to go! It's not too late to volunteer in your state for the campaign. Volunteers continue to phone bank and canvass. To find out how to get involved in your state Go to www.barackobama.com and click on to your state and region to find out how to volunteer. If you've always wanted to get involved in a campaign but think that it's too late to do anything, this is YOUR time.

Also, hundreds are people are needed the last 4 days of the campaign for the Get Out The Vote!

To quote Carol Guest our enthusiastic field director;

"This is it. You are now engaged in the greatest voter mobilization effort in history. It was a campaign founded on the idea that an engaged electorate is the driver of progress. Every last vote for Barack Obama on Election Day is one more person dedicated to the success of this candidate and this presidency. I am asking that you take nothing for granted and get out there to help win this thing.

We have 11 days. Make each one count."

Back "Home" in Indiana

2008-10-23T19:42:00.005-04:00

I missed Homecoming this year and I had a yearning to get back to Indiana so Dan and I took a road trip to Shipshewana, a delightful Amish community with wonderful unique shops, and yes, a lot of tacky shops but they can be avoided.

So Many Divas, So Little Time

2008-10-17T14:46:00.002-04:00

Community Circle Players known fondly as The Barn and now Riverwalk Theatre is celebrating its 50th anniversary. In honor of that great accomplishment we have gathered an ensemble of well known stellar performers for a night of entertainment. Relive those blockbuster memorable shows like Sweeney Todd, Company, A Little Night Music, The Robber Bridegroom, 1776, Man of La Mancha, Oliver and many more.

The show is directed by Jane Falion with John Dale Smith as musical director and starring Emily English, Janine Novenske Smith, Colleen Bethea, Ellen Brennan Campbell, Laura Stebbins, Eric Dawe, Dale Powell, Bill Henson, Doak Bloss, Ken Beachler and special featured guests.

Saturday, November 8 at 8 p.m. and Sunday, November 9 at 2 p.m. Tickets for this fundraiser are $20 with a reception following the performance. Call Riverwalk Theatre for reservations at 482-5700

Autumn in Italy

2008-10-08T15:28:00.002-04:00

So I posted this because, of course, I love Fall. But more importantly, I have just begun to work with some of my photos in photoshop and I'm playing around with color, contrast, brightness, sharpness etc. So this is an experiment.

I love the contrast between the rounded bunchy shape of the maple and the long horizontal reach of the evergreen branches. The color contrast, seeing them side by side is quite interesting as well.

This photo was taken at quite a distance from the 4th floor window of a room at the Hotel Oasi.

Rainy Days

2008-10-06T10:53:00.008-04:00

The blue pod people

It's Monday and it's raining. How appropriate. Rainy days and Mondays in the Fall are a bonus. Rainy days slow us down; they stop us in our frenetic daily pace and make us rethink our options. A perfect day for "nesting" and cleaning closets, or making art, or writing on the blog, paying the bills, or cocooning. I propose that every rainy Monday should be a day off. Thankfully, I do have Mondays off but if you don't, consider taking a rainy Monday off and reward yourself.

It rained quite often in Italy and in fact the last day in Cortona it rained all day. There wasn't much we thought we could do photography wise but Jeff, my photo class buddy, and I took cover under a second level covered balcony cafe overlooking Piazza Republica and shot a series of "umbrella" photos.

Oh! October

2008-09-30T20:52:00.004-04:00

My favorite month of the year! If you've been following my blog you'll remember my rather exuberant posting for the month of October last year.

October is when Fall really arrives in all its golden red hues and crispy, crunchy sounds and smells. And I love the fact that so many people, almost world wide, make such a big deal of my birthday! Oh wait, maybe that's Halloween? Anyway, be prepared for Fall foliage on this site for the next month.

My friend Jeanie, (linked here) inspired me with her city market photos and so I had to christen the season with my own visit. Enjoy all that Fall unfolds for you.

Morning Mist

2008-09-28T17:09:00.003-04:00

Early Friday morning as I was walking through the house, I caught this sight of the backyard. It was misty and the morning sun was just beginning to peak through.

Fall is a Festival

2008-09-28T16:48:00.005-04:00

If it wasn't enough that I went to Italy this September, I returned to Fall in all its glory! Fall is a festival unto itself. It doesn't really need decorations; it is one. It really doesn't need festivals either but some times they do enhance that nostalgic feel of fall.

I went to the Fallasburg Fall Festival today. I haven't missed this festival since my friend Sue took me three years ago. It is spectacular and sets just the right mood for welcoming in the season. I tell friends it is the quintessential fall festival.

The grounds of the Fallasburg Park are gorgeously arrayed in nature's spectacular color along with some human enhancement, the crowds are manageable, the arts and crafts are first rate, the food, cooked by local organizations, is as tasty as its temping aromas. Combine that with live music and the smell of burning wood from the lodge and it is perfection.

2008-09-26T13:19:00.004-04:00

"Honey, Let's invite the neighbors over to see our vacation slides. I know they're dying to see all 2,000 of them! It will be so much fun!"

Aren't we glad those days are over? I know Aunt Gertrude over on the left is!

I've uploaded some of MY photos, certainly not 2,00o of them, into a Picasa album if you'd like to check them out. You don't even have to oooh! and aaahhh or make small talk about how wonderful they are!

It's a start but I plan to replace and edit these as I organize my photos, so you won't always see the same things!

Cooking in Cortona

2008-09-24T19:28:00.006-04:00

From the movie set of Under the Tuscan Sun.

At the very top of the Cortona is the Albergo Ristorante Portole the sight of our Tuscan cooking class. The adorable Evan with the help of Dennyse our Cortonan renaissance woman (she runs her own travel agency, teaches cooking, drives taxi, and a multitude of other jobs) prepared with our assistance a wonderful of ( The real Bramisole and the movie Bramisole)

foccaccia with tuscan meats and cheeses, gnocci with fresh tomatoes, roasted herbed chicken, roasted potatoes, and a berry tart all the while plying us with wine, grappe, and limoncello.

Our drive down the hill took us by the real Bramisole from Under the Tuscan Sun and the church of Santa Margherita. (The photo of the pink house close to the road is the movie set house.

Sticker Shock Italian Style

2008-09-24T16:13:00.004-04:00

I knew before I left that the dollar was down against the euro and that things were quite expensive in Italy. Of course I chose to ignore it figuring I would do just fine and not get too extravagant.

Ha! I had no idea how that would play out in reality, so let me give you some "for instances"...

Keep in mind that 1 Euro = $1.50 (ish) in US currency.

So a bottle of water at 2 Euro is actually $3.

In Italy tipping is not necessary; probably because you and your Euro are easily parted. Many restaurants charge a per person copertin (table fee) of $1-3 per person, water is not free so you usually buy a bottle for $3 , a fee for the bread they bring to the table (1.50 per person) is tacked on and that's before ordering any food. A bowl of soup? $10, dessert? $7.50,

At a Trattoria, my first day in Rome, Jeff (one of my photo class buddies) and I split a pizza, a salad, and each of us had one can of Coke. The bill? 38 Euro or $57!!! Turns out the cokes were $9 apiece.

The 4 mile taxi from the Terontola train station to the hotel? $27.

My advice? Wait another two years; economists are predicting the dollar will be much stronger than the euro by then. If you really can't wait; take a second job!

The View From My Window

2008-09-24T15:41:00.006-04:00

The hotel Oasi is located at the base of the hill to Cortona overlooking Camucia and Lake Trasimeno. There's a fairly long description of the history of the hotel, once a monastery, but here are some pictures.

Back in the USA

2008-09-24T08:18:00.005-04:00

Arrived back in America yesterday at midnight my time and 6pm your time. I had an amazing trip but I must say it is SO GOOD to be back. My first stop at the Amsterdam airport was the Starbucks!!!! I can't tell you how happy I was to see them. I have missed my daily latte from my FAVORITE place BEANERS (BIGGBY'S) but since they don't have a store in Amsterdam yet I had to "settle" for Starbucks. Make no mistake about it, Italy had GREAT coffee only too little of it. A shot of espresso (2 Oz) or a cappuccino (4 oz) that you drank standing up or if you wanted to pay more for it, sitting down. NO take away cups, no lingering over a full bodied coffee, no skim milk, no flavoring, no sitting.

I have uploaded my photos and in the several days will edit my blog entries adding my own photos, updating the information and generally cleaning things up. The one computer at the Oasi was in a dark corner and I had to rely on guests walking through the hallway to activate the lights in order to see the keyboard. The key board was Italian and it took getting used too. I never did get the hang of using the @ key or the ".

If you have been reading the blog, first of all THANKS, and thanks for your comments. It really made my day to read your comments at the beginning of the day; a little connection to home.

I didn't have a chance to let everyone know that I would be blogging so I'll send out a group email and if you have some time on your hands you can check out the blog and see what I've been doing the past 2 weeks.

Ciao.

Firenze

2008-09-17T16:39:00.015-04:00

How can I possibly sum up what the last two days have been like? It's a whirlwind and a blur but let me try.

We spent a day in Florence, well about 6 hours, not nearly enough time. We stopped in the most amazing working apothecary shop, sort of a ancient Bath and Body with a museum. The scents alone were worth the visit.

The first piazza we came to captivated us with its working carousel. My photography assignment was to "look up" Not hard in Florence when almost everything IS up. Then on to the Duomo in the center of the city. If you've watched the PBS series The Medici: Godfathers of the Renaissance you'll know the story of the Medici's and understand the significance of the completed dome. This is also the site of those famous gold doors. Unfortunately the crowds are huge and the lines snake for hours. An Italian style cafeteria, all the food is displayed in the case and all you have to do is point, easy and quick, was actually fabulous. After days of pastries and pasta it was nice to finally have some fresh fruit.
Most of the quick eating places have cut up fresh fruit gorgeously displayed.

The famous Ponte Vecchio, the bridge over the river Arno, was bustling with tourists looking for good deals on jewelry. Every one of the dozens of shops on the bridge sells jewelry. Sadly there was not enough time for more shopping or sightseeing

BTW...Love the trains in Italy.

After a day of shooting at Le Celli, (more later) founded by St. Francis in 1211, we headed to the top of Cortona for a cooking class (see entry).

Kindred Hearts

2008-09-17T16:39:00.014-04:00

A word about my traveling companions, compatriots, and fast friends.

This was quite a leap of faith for me to go off to Italy, on my own, to take a workshop on photography (I take pictures not photographs) not knowing anyone on this trip,, with the exception of Jane Rosemont, the workshop director.
It took less than a day for this group to gel and form relationships. Ours is a tiny group of three but we seem to have known each other in another life. The other group of 16 or so, are here taking an assemblage class with artist Michael deMeng. For those who are not familiar with Michael or his process I have posted a few photos.

This group of people from all over the US, Canada, and one from England is not only fun to be with but all of them are so incredibly talented too. We have had a blast together. Although most times we go off on our photo shoots we regroup for sightseeing and meals. As soon as I get all the contacts I will link you to some of their websites or blogs.

A Jug of Wine; A Loaf of Bread

2008-09-15T17:06:00.003-04:00

Our first field trip out of the city took us to the ceramics area of Deruta. We spent an amazing morning on a private tour of one of the finest Italian ceramics factories.

Then off to lunch and to the home and business of a family run olive oil maker. The olive oil is harvested and pressed in the old style, not mass produced and it was exquisite. What we assumed to be a picnic lunch turned out to be another large Italian style lunch starting with olive oil drenched bruschetta, spelt with tomatoes and fresh basil drizzled with olive oil, mixed grilled vegetables marinated and drizzled with, you guessed it, olive oil, salad with olive oil vinaigrette, melon, biscotti dipped in wine, and finally 2 grappe soaked grapes as a chaser and wine, wine and more wine. Just roll me home in a barrel.

On to a winery. By then we were all pretty woozy but what can you do? The winery, San Lucca, formerly a a monastery, hence the name, again is a small family run winery exporting primarily to the Umbrian area. Their wines are wonderful blends of various grapes and the servings were liberal.

Finally home to Cortona for a much needed detox. But, oh it was well worth it!

My photography assignment for the day was reflections. Although I took snapshots my main goal was to shoot images reflected in other objects; a wine bottle reflected in a window, water reflecting images from a branch, light reflected off of a glass designed door , a clock reflected off a large window. It was amazing how many things there were to shoot and the incredible images I captured.

Tomorrow it's off to Florence

Lights Camera

2008-09-15T02:00:00.004-04:00

Heading up to Cortona

Camera and manual in hand we headed up the hill to Cortona for a day of shooting. Our assignment was to shoot with an eye to small detail rather than the whole picture. I'm using a point and shoot kinda gal so this was a challenge but so much more interesting.

We regrouped at Stacey's apartment to preview and review our photos and then it was back down to town, lunch, and a Duomo and cemetary for more shooting.

Last night the entire group of 25 got together for dinner at the most incredible Italian restaurant for a full 5 course traditional Italian meal; bruscetta, pasta, lemon chicken, salad and tiramisu for dessert with a lemoncello chaser. The walk back home was absolutely a must after so much great food.

Today we are off to Deruta, a ceramics town, a family run olive oil company and some wine tasting.

The hotel computer is acting cranky so I haven't been able to post pictures, much to my dismay. Hopefully tonight I will be able to remedy that.

Il Pozzo

2008-09-14T02:25:00.004-04:00

The well in Italian but also the name of a beautiful gallery and gift shop in Cortona. The owner Evan built his shop in an old piazza in Cortona but as he was lowering the floor by some 3-4 feet ( he is very tall) he discovered the hidden well thus changing his design plan and the name of his shop. Check out his shop online. The well is inside the shop and is it's focal point. After a wine and pizza reception we wandered around the town, checked out the home of Stacy our tour organizer and headed home with a gelato stop along the way.

I spent my day wandering Cortona , after I caught my breath, that is, hauling myself up the hill to town. Cortona is, after all, a hill town, a VERY STEEP hill town.

By the way, Italy is BIG on Obama. Stickers, buttons, and passionate support. Too bad we can't transport some Italians to America to vote. I met a delightful women in a local shop and we ended up chatting for about an hour, mostly about Obama. She runs a beautiful gift shop and she shared her photography with me as well.

Had lunch at a Trattoria; bruschetta and spaghetti pomodor, waited out a driving rain storm under the archway of the museum and then back to the hotel to dry out.

Planes and Train and a Train Strike

2008-09-13T04:29:00.004-04:00

I've arrived in Italy safe and sound with very little sleep but with less confusion that I thought. I'll try to post as often as possible and maybe even post a picture or two...stolen from the internet right now...until I can figure out how to pull pictures from online and post them on the computer at the hotel or else download what Ive taken.
The last time I was in Italy, Florence, there was a strike and nothing was open. Yesterday, the trains in Italy went on strike leaving millions of people stranded and much of our workshop group scrambling to get to Cortona. I beat the strike by about 2 hours and arrived with out any hassle.
My biggest concern was negotiating the trains and the phone (and this computer with the Italilan keyboard) In Italy, phones do not use coins so you have to buy a carte telephonica, tear off the perforation and stick it in the phone the right way (8 possibilities), stick it in far enough to activate the phone, dial and push OK. Great as long as you do it right, a bit of a problem when you don't and the operator tells you what the problem is in Italian.
My big adventure last night, after getting a ride up the very steep hill, was a trip into Cortona proper. Beautiful as it is in pictures. Did a little grocery shopping, pizza and gelato eating and then headed home. Well, at least made the attempt to head home. It was thundering, it was lightening, it was raining,, I had what I thought were great directions for getting back but somewhere I got lost. So I retraced my steps to my first turn and went another way, another fork in the road and I thankfully made the right choice. I imagined tomorrows headlines American Tourist Hit By Lightening, Struck Dead in Cortona. A little overdramatic I suppose but in my mind it was a real possibility. So I'm headed up the hill today, a daunting task but every step up I will be repeating think how many calories you are burning. That of course if BIG with all the incredible food in Italy not to mention, amazingly enough, the amount of food I was served in transit.
Till tomorrow
Ciao

My Italian Villa

2008-09-10T13:22:00.001-04:00

This will be my "home" for the next week or so. The Hotel Oasi has a fascinating history.

Hotel OASI was founded in 1225, thanks to a generous "Cortonese" Agnolo Ranieri (man who lived in Cortona). He built the house and gave it the Damianite nuns (today called Clarisse), who lived there till 1237.In 1290 the countesses Bandinucci dei Conti di Cegliolo and Giasconi di Montemaggio entrusted the monastery to Benedictine sisters. From this period derives the name "Le Contesse" (the Countesses) by which it is still known today.In 1945 the Bishop Petrella joined Le Contesse with the monastery of Santa Caterina greatly increasing the number of sisters who lived there.

At the beginning of the 18th century the church was renovated and enlarged following the design of Architect Jannelli. The church was consecrated by the Bishop Puccini and dedicated to Mother Mary.On 20th May 1782 according to an order of Grand Duke Pietro Leopoldo the convent Le Contesse was closed, although was still flourishing. This was a considerable blow to the noble families of the area, many of whom had daughters there. Some saw it as an attempt to weaken their power.

In the second half of the 19th century grounds and buildings were bought by the monastery of the Holy Trinity who rented to laymen, who used it as a farm for silk-worms breeding. The devastation ended in 1891 when the Redemptorists bought the church and grounds and with the help of Architect Mirri, began the revival of the monastery.From 1891 till 1966 the building was used as seminary. During both world-wars Le Contesse was very useful to the Fatherland: in those tragic moments it became a military hospital.From 1967 owing to the decrease of vocations the seminary moved to RomeIn 1973 under the guidance of Father Tommaso Natalizia put the basis for the birth of Hotel OASI.

Winging My Way

2008-09-10T12:46:00.003-04:00

Headed to Italy!!!! I'm off to Italy under the Tuscan sun. The next time I post I should be sharing photos (after all it IS a photography trip) from Cortona, Rome, Florence and other charming Italian cities.

Ciao!

Quinn in Oxford

2008-08-29T19:08:00.002-04:00

My nephew Quinn is off to Oxford to study this semester. Follow his travels through his blog www.quinninoxford.blogspot.com.
There's a permanent link from this site in the side bar

I Declare!

2008-08-25T18:07:00.004-04:00

The Olympics are over and now the excitement really begins as the Democratic Convention starts today.

I've decided to get involved this year and I'm working for the Obama Campaign making calls right now and eventually registering voters and doing some canvassing.

The excitement is palpable at headquarters and I'm looking forward to the convention watching party this Thursday when Obama speaks.

Go to http://www.barackobama.com/ for excellent coverage of the issues, answers to all the negative PR., and events in your area.

Anyone can help. So get on board!

A Little Taste of Heaven

2008-08-14T21:16:00.006-04:00

A new and fabulous Pastry shop has opened in East Lansing's Hannah Plaza called Chapelure. I read the wonderful review in the City Pulse and even though the photo in the CP does not do justice to the spectacularly decorated cakes it made me rush right out and check it out on my own. Trouble...for me...especially so close to the Italy trip and all that wonderful food but I just had to! (The photo here is a generic photo. I wasn't able to capture the one from City Pulse but Chapelure's is just as tempting)

It is absolutely as close to East Coast style pastries as you can get. I tried the unfussy croissant because I knew it would be the test! If it was crunchy and flaky and didn't need butter, it passed my test. It was everything I had hoped for. I'm in love. They have an outstanding array of gorgeous cakes and individual pastries as well as coffee drinks.

So pick up a City Pulse; read the article and the interesting background of the owners and then rush out and give them your business.

A Little Brains, A Little Talent

2008-08-05T13:11:00.003-04:00

"With an emphasis on the former" That would be my daughter. Although the talent is in large supply too. Katie designed a professional looking handout for an assignment for her externship that everyone thought was done by a graphic designer. And you should see the website she designed for CMA!

So here's the proud mom sharing her camping photos.

Confessions of a Late Merger

2008-08-04T16:17:00.007-04:00

I admit it. I have always been a late merger, much to the chagrin of my family and most of my friends. But it seems I HAVE BEEN RIGHT ALL ALONG! It has always been my theory that if you keep going in both lanes, traffic won't back up as much, as far, and as slowly and then when you get to the merge point you just zip in one at a time. In fact there is an actual name for it......."The Zipper Effect".

The Pennsylvania DOT got it right a long time ago. I love their signs before a merge. The first one says: MERGE AHEAD - USE BOTH LANES. Another one will alert you to a work area and finally the last one says: MERGE HERE.

As it turns out quite a bit of studies have been conducted by many many states trying to figure out this whole merge thing.

When you merge later YOU ARE ACTUALLY HELPING EVERYONE ELSE move faster. I know, I know. It's counterintuitive but research shows that cars move an estimated 15 % faster when drivers wait to merge.

So there you have it. LATE MERGERS UNITE!

Want move information of the authoritative kind? Pick up Tom Vanderbilt's book Traffic or check out the companion blog at http://www.howwedrive.com/ for other fascinating information about, well, how we drive. It may make your next trip less stressful

Jane in the Jungle

Come si dici...La Luce scopa il THESPIES

Remembering Jeff

Information Please

Gearing Up

Recommended Reading

Rothschilds Back on Broadway

DESIGNING WOMEN HOLIDAY BOUTIQUE

What's in a Name

Mark Your Calendar

World Premeire

Hot! Potato

Bath Massacre by Arnie Bernstein

A few

Where I Went for Summer Vacation

Every Dog Has Its Day

AN ACT OF MADNESS

Encore Performance

e

A Bird's "Eye" View

Deconstructing Columbine

The Great White Way

In a New York Minute

Bon Appetit

Soups On!

On the Road

Crossing Over

Casting Call

The Light in the Piazza

Hear! Hear!

Transition! Transition!

"Over a 1,000 props"

A Royal Vacation

On Vacation

Celebrate! Celebrate! Dance to the Music

34 Days And Counting

Prayer Bead Workshop

Happy Valentines Day

The Story Guys

Flash theatre

BFF Update

Welcome to Shirley

Coming to America

Let Them Eat Cake

God Grew Tired of Us

BFF

Has NY Dropped the Ball?

I Suppose this is Supposed to Make Sense

Celebration!

Slumdog Millionaire

Light My Fire

"Let There Be Peace on Earth"

Bailey the Unknown Reindeer

Snowed In

One Man's White Elephant, Another Man's Golden Goose

A white elephant

"Synecdoche: A Part of Life That Makes Us Whole"*

Missing Mike

Thinking Outside the Box

Macaroni Grill Comes to Lansing

Winter Storm Warning

The "Face"* that Launched a Thousand Words

My Favorite Things

Change of Address

Funny No Matter What Side You Were On

Tis the Season

Glitter and Glow

Our Moment is Now

VOTE!

Happy Halloween

Afternoon of the Fawn

Les Mis Obama

Knock for Barack

Back "Home" in Indiana

So Many Divas, So Little Time

Autumn in Italy

Rainy Days

Oh! October

Morning Mist

Fall is a Festival