Madness ensues during Medicare meltdown
Medical insurance used to be so simple. Expensive, but simple. We paid bucketloads in monthly premium dollars, and for that I got to go see the doctor where I deposited the "co-pay." How easy was that?
Music and comedy on my mind
Sometimes, I have difficulty deciding which I like better, comedy or great music. Each has, in its own way, a magical capability to improve my mood and state of mind. A couple of days ago, I was listening to a symphony, Mussorgsky-Ravel’s Pictures at an Exhibition, on my ancient but superb sounding stereo system. My mind was totally consumed with the power and majesty of composition. I closed my eyes and let the notes take me through the Great Gates of Kiev, totally engrossed. I probably was a Russian Cossack in a past life. If you asked me at that moment, I would have told you that music was my favorite and most enjoyable pastime.
Mormon Spanish branch opening in Gilroy
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS) has a large presence in the South Valley. With multiple wards (congregations) in South San Jose, Morgan Hill, Gilroy and Hollister, the LDS Church plays an important part in the local communities. Recently, the Gilroy location of the Gavilan Spanish branch was announced, giving more opportunities for Spanish-speakers to take part in LDS worship and other activities.
Nearly any gift will make Dad happy on Father’s Day
There’s something about Father’s Day that makes me relax. It’s the gift giving, frankly. Honestly? Unless you give your dad a gift that he already has, you have it made in the gift giving department for Father’s Day.
Local teen headed for great – and artsy – things
As an Arts and Culture Commissioner for the City of Gilroy, I look forward to the enthusiastic interaction of commissioners and student representatives at monthly meetings. For the past two years, Julianna Vanni has represented Christopher High School, reporting the school’s art activities with enthusiasm and passion.
Sierra LaMar sadness and the slow wheels of justice
Tomorrow marks the saddest anniversary in Morgan Hill’s history. One year has passed since Sierra Lamar disappeared.
A madcap homage to Alfred Hitchcock
Limelight Actors’ Theatre brings in “The 39 Steps” for its 23rd production in its fifth season to entertain the folks in the South Valley.Director JoAnna Evans lets loose four kooky, talented characters to play over 100 roles in this Hitchcock murder-spy spoof.Kevin Heath, Roberta Vinkhuyzen, Jason Harris and Bruce Pember with Michael Perry and Brennan Perry as the ever energetic stage hands that keep the show glued together. Everyone’s hysterical timing and delivery is almost flawless.Evans uses a broad brush, painting the four characters and their images of over 100 characters with more than 50 costume changes that transform their persona with a flick of a hat, jacket or wig before your eyes. The timing is intricate and tricky but this nutty group use minimum props and is at times ingenious and adds to the hilarity of the production. Example: Four large trunks double as seats on a train and also act as the roof of the train that the characters use to do a typical Hitchcock chase scene, flapping their coats with flashing lights to give the effect of wind and rain. A bunch of mismatched chairs and a podium create a getaway car, a moveable door, a mock-up window and picture frames become ingenious props that tickle the funny-bone and create a mental picture of what could be next in this off-the-wall adventure that is done completely tongue-in-cheek with a homage to Hitchcock.Evans directs this whacked-out talented group like a conductor performing Fantasia’s "Sorcerer’s Apprentice" in triple time. The energy expended by this entire goofy group is seductive and over the top and leaves the audience pleasantly exhausted.For anyone who is a Hitchcock fan this might be the ticket to lighten up a bit. To those who aren’t familiar with his genius, time to get acquainted. Go and rent the movie then see this show. You will definitely have an interesting experience.Come early around 7 pm, bring your dinner and wine if you like, for an enjoyable evening of fun and tons of laughs.Camille Bounds is the theatre and arts columnist for the Morgan Hill Times, Gilroy Dispatch and the Hollister Freelance. She can be reached at [email protected] “The 39 Steps”Where: The Gilroy Center For The ArtsThrough: May 2Runs: 2 hours and 20 minutes with one intermissionTickets: $20Reservations and information call (408) 472-3292 or visitwww.LimeLightActors’Theater.com
It’s time to explore energy options other than oil
During the 2008 presidential election, Americans heard the chant
Church provides space for meditation
Good Shepherd Lutheran Church recently installed a labyrinth at
