A little bit of "somewhere else" right here in our little town of Friend, NE. Imagine that! Yesterday was a crazy-fun day at the PHouse. We had visitors from the west, who were headed to watch the Husker's victory. We had visitors from the east, who were escaping the craziness of those Husker fans... and we had a few locals pop in for a late lunch. Nice mix of folks, and all were really interesting to chat with.
The group of four (from Lincoln, Omaha, Beaver Crossing) were particularly fun because they shared a love for the restoration and renovation of the Warren Building. Tami took the time to show them the Opera House photo album, and Tina chatted them up about all the work the Historical Society had done to help get the PHouse, San Carlo & Mary Mary up and going. By the time I walked in the door, they were ready for a tour. So, tour we did. We strolled the San Carlo and talked about our mural depicting Hwy 6 in 1915. We checked out the super cool newly donated cheese cleaver that was original to Samuelson's Grocery Store. Then we shared OOOS and AWWS in the Mary Mary. They were totally WOWD by the building. But I sent them over the top when we ascended the stairs to the Historic Warren Opera House. Jaws dropped. Heads shook. Smiles beamed and cameras came out. "Who ever would-a guessed," one man said. We talked about the props and scene flats, the chairs, the floor, you name it. And these four new friends shared in our excitement of one day holding events and performances in the theater, and maybe even spending a night in the haunted Frog Winslow Room, after a glass or two of wine at the PHouse, of course.
The one gentleman, who says "neat-o cheet-o" when he's enthused, asked me how many thousands of times I had given a tour... and if I was bored with it. My answer was "at least a thousand, and I hope to give a thousand more. Nope. Not bored with it". When others, local and from elsewhere, share our vision, our enthusiasm and our excitement about restoration, it is just the shot in the arm that we need. We are few. We are tired. But we are mighty.
At the end of the tour, the lady in the group said, "I feel like we're on vacation. Great food and wine. Such culture. Like we're not here, but somewhere else". That's pretty darn cool!
And what is even cooler, is that today we get to be "someplace else" again, as we welcome the theater to the San Carlo and enjoy a Melodrama performance. Hmmm... gourmet food, imported and local wines, historical appeal, intellectual conversations and theater... I'm going to close my eyes and think "theater district- Chicago, IL". Yep. That works!
So, thank you to everyone who stops in to the Pour House for unique food, dynamite wine and the beautiful ambiance of this historic building. You are all appreciated. Have a great Sunday.
Sunday, September 30, 2012
Sunday, August 12, 2012
Tonight We Welcome New York City to the San Carlo Room
One of the coolest things about the Pour House is the way we are able to create an atmosphere that makes you feel like you're not in Friend, Nebraska... sometimes not Omaha, Nebraska... and even at times like you're not in Nebraska at all. The talented performers that have burst through our PHouse doors has been - simply - mind blowing. I thank my frined Fran for his brainchild effort in starting the Concert In Your Home (CYIH) series, and for introducing me to so many talented people, from all over the country. Fran has been here- he's paused in Florida, but has been on the road in Cali for months now. There was Sarah, Steff, Conner, Beth, Doug E, Mason, and I don't know who I've forgotten. And there was our favorite Englishman, Rupert. If you missed Rupert, you missed another fantastic show. It was actually Rupert that introduced me to Barnaby Bright (AMAZING DUO) and Caleb Hawley. And tonight we welcome Caleb back to Nebraska.
Once one of the American Idol contenders, Caleb visited us about a year ago. He's a hoot. His hair's about as messy as mine- so I gotta love him. He and his wife live in NYC now, and he records original music, plays popular tunes, and jams like a crazy man on that guitar. We get to welcome him and his band, Awkward Silence, to the San Carlo tonight at 7PM. And, that is super cool. He played at the Berioc... he's headed to the Minden Opera House, and YES, tonight he's ours. NYC in downtown Friend. Awesome.
It was another stellar weekend here for us at PHouse. We welcomed about half of the city of Lincoln yesterday, and it's looking to be another Lincoln visit day today. And, it's always fun to hear the "city folk" having a wonderful and surprising good time out here, in our little town. It's a privilege to welcome talent from across the pond and across the country... as it is to welcome happy, wine sipping guests who thoroghly enjoy our little Pour House.
Thanks so much and CHEERS!
Once one of the American Idol contenders, Caleb visited us about a year ago. He's a hoot. His hair's about as messy as mine- so I gotta love him. He and his wife live in NYC now, and he records original music, plays popular tunes, and jams like a crazy man on that guitar. We get to welcome him and his band, Awkward Silence, to the San Carlo tonight at 7PM. And, that is super cool. He played at the Berioc... he's headed to the Minden Opera House, and YES, tonight he's ours. NYC in downtown Friend. Awesome.
It was another stellar weekend here for us at PHouse. We welcomed about half of the city of Lincoln yesterday, and it's looking to be another Lincoln visit day today. And, it's always fun to hear the "city folk" having a wonderful and surprising good time out here, in our little town. It's a privilege to welcome talent from across the pond and across the country... as it is to welcome happy, wine sipping guests who thoroghly enjoy our little Pour House.
Thanks so much and CHEERS!
Sunday, July 15, 2012
One ending is clear... one to go!
Do you ever take a minute to stop and think about how things come to be? Consider what's happening in your life, and trace it all back to find that, really, nothing happens for no reason. Actually everything happens for a reason- we just may not know what that reason is... at least for a time. And then, one day you reflect back on what's happening in your life and BAM... it's all related in some way, and the path is leading to something wonderful! Begin with the restoration of our Historic Warren Opera House...
When I was young, I loved the Thorpe Opera House in David City. It was always a special treat to either perform, or attend a performance in the Thorpe. Today, I am very probably addicted to the Historic Warren Opera House. She is, simply, amazing. She inspires creativity to nearly everyone that enters the theater. I have writer friends, musician friends, artists... everyone who ascends those stairs shares the same "Oooohhh My" sigh of appreciation. It is true that the Opera House is inspirational. Not only does it move me to write (just this past week, a short comedy haunted screenplay, first notes for my next screenplay, and the beginnings of what I hope will become a music video for Barnaby Bright), but it inspires me to reach out to my network of friends to solicit their help.
In my life, thus far, I've come to know some amazing, talented, wonderful people. And, some are famous... even infamous! Next, let's consider the Potter's Field Vineyard and Pour House. When we planned the vineyard, my mom was still with us. She was fighting the hard fight against cancer (valiantly I'll add). We injected a lot of laughs and humor as the best medicine in what was a losing proposition. It was an afternoon of wine in the sunroom at the farm when we giggled and decided that Potter's Field would be a perfect name for the vineyard. I always liked the Potter's field section of the Deadwood, SD cemetary (keep a rock on my bookshelf for luck). The idea of the poor and downtrodden all being laid to rest in one lonely place is interesting to me. The potential for the vineyard to financially "break" us made Potter's Field seem ideal. Mom laughed that we'd "make wine to die for"! It was also the poor / pour play on words that prompted me to register the Pour House domain several years before the tasting room ever opened. But I digress... so here we have this vineyard, and neither dad or I know the first thing about these sticks we just planted (all 2.5 acres!) so I signed up for online Vitology courses. If you're gonna raise grapes, you'd better know something about it. Part of that course was a requirement to work in a vineyard. I didn't know anyone that had a vineyard, but Tom Sorenson did. So I called his friends, Kelly & Randy Meyer, at Superior Estates Winery, in Superior. I learned to build trellis and to prune vines. It was not only fun, but I made good friends in the Meyer family. AND... while there, I saw a photo of one of the most amazing houses I'd ever seen. I learned that it is Lew Hunter's Screenwriter's Colony House... right there in Superior. Who knew? SO... on to the next quinky-dink...
I got online to learn more about the Lew Hunter Screenwriter's Colony, and decided that although I had never even contemplated writing a screenplay, that it seemed like a place that was calling me to visit. I gathered up my courage, submitted a few pieces I'd written, applied for acceptance and received a personal phone call from Lew saying "you can write... I can teach you the format for screenplay...come to the Summer Colony!" I moved in to the Colony with my other 9 or so writer friends and spent, probably, the most therapeutic 2 weeks of my life. It was a bit cathartic- my screenplay ended up being an exercise in grieving...it just took over and spilled on to the pages. I don't even know how many times Lew or Dr. Dave and I would sit in the living room or on the screenporch, sharing a tear over my mother. Ironically, it's still a damn good script, but it is not yet finished. Lew just visited me at the PHouse on Thursday. He was checkin' in on our progress, and on my writing progress. Happily, I could tell him, while the first script isn't fininshed yet, I have completed a "short" that will soon be shot for a 10-minute movie (produced by the husband of a childhood friend), we sent the ghostly comedy off to an agent who is hoping to shoot ghost stories in Nebraska in August... and I had just spent my Tuesday evening, on stage in the Opera House, making mental notes for the next script. I add Lewis & Pamela Hunter to my list of people that I love, who love me. That's an honor. OK- quick re-cap... Thorpe - Warren Opera House - Potter's Field - Pour House - Superior vineyard work - Lew Hunter Screenwriter's Colony ... and there's more...
My second visit to the Colony was cut short, but in the time I was there I met my dear friend Lisa Kovanda, and the now-famous Jon Bokenkamp. Lisa was writing her first screenplay. Jon was already working in Hollywood and had written 2 or more movies for Angelina Jolie. And, one fine afternoon, Lisa and I had the privelege to do a table reading for Jon. He was pitching a series for HBO and there we were, around Lew's colony dining room table, reading. The network had expanded...I'd made new friends... but there was more to the story. This I know now.
A few weeks ago, Lisa (now President of the NE Writer's Guild) & I went to the grand opening of the World Theater. We gussied up, walked the red carpet, sipped champagne and went to support our fellow writer Jon, as it was his "baby" and his motivation to return to Kearney, rally 10 people and embark on a million+ restoration of the theater. It was great to see him, and of course, in Nebraska-fashion... I told Jon of our Historic Warren Opera House and asked for his help, and he said "OF COURSE... email me and I'll come have a look. We'll talk." And just then... 2-time Academy Award winner Alexander Payne entered the room. I grabbed eye contact immediately, said to Jon..."can I ask his help too?", smiled and headed to the corner of the theater where I could corner yet another famous Nebraskan. After a good 10 minute chat about the project and Friend, Nebraska, I asked him. Again, I got a "get me your number- you have mine... if not tomorrow, I will visit you before the end of the year." Cheers... Thorpe-Warren Opera House- Potter's Field - Pour House - Superior vineyard - Lew Hunter screenwriting colony - Lisa - Jon - World Theater - Alexander Payne - what next?
Filmstreams. Alexander Payne's brainchild to build the Ruth Sokolov Theater, where performance and movies take the stage. This "indie" and not-mainstream venue is, like our Opera House, a place that just breeds inspiration. And what better way to show our appreciation of Alexander's past commitments to restoring a theater in Scottsbluff, and his Filmstream efforts, than to join him in a wonderful fundraiser event? The PHouse will be closed next Sunday, and Connie, Gretta and I are heading to the Holland Theater for a series of parties and what I expect will be a very interesting interview event with Alexander and the beautiful Ms. Jane Fonda. Of course, Lew Hunter will be there... maybe Jon, I don't know yet... and the devotees of the Historic Warren Opera House will be on hand to rub elbows, gleen insight and tested ideas, to renew our inspiration and to sip champagne among some famous and infamous Nebraskans. Filmstreams has opened a "short movie" competition, with a July 25 deadline. Unfortunatley, "Dance of Silly Daisies" won't be shot until fall, so I'll miss this year's competiton, but who knows... maybe that is yet another part of this journey we are on to restore the beautiful Warren Opera House, and to again bring talent, creativity and appreciation to the stage and theater.
The Journey thus far: childhood friend - Thorpe - Warren Opera House - Potter's Field - Pour House - Superior Vineyard - Lew Hunter Screenwriter's Colony - Lew - Lisa - Jon - World Theater - Alexander Payne - Filmstreams - _____________ (childhood friend's producer husband films "Daisies") (ghostly comedy to be filmed in OHouse) (next script involving OHouse, Oddfellows) ? Maybe the time will be right to finish my first script. It think it's getting closer... I can feel it. Maybe some of this filming will inspire others to support our efforts... it all makes perfect sense.
And, I know where the journey ends. As I mentioned... EVERYTHING happens for a reason... in this amazing life of mine, thus far, my trail of "things" has lead me to a wonderful group of friends who have all dedicated every spare moment (and then some) to the success of the restoration. They see the possibilities. We share this vision. Happily, we forge ahead... giving tours, promoting, doing TV interviews, writing stories and plays and surrounding ourselves with all of these positive people in the state who "get it". I, honestly, just can't see how this restoration could not be a success. My chain of events has lead me to a place where I can see what has happened, why, and where the path is leading. That's a wonderful thing.
Thanks for reading...
When I was young, I loved the Thorpe Opera House in David City. It was always a special treat to either perform, or attend a performance in the Thorpe. Today, I am very probably addicted to the Historic Warren Opera House. She is, simply, amazing. She inspires creativity to nearly everyone that enters the theater. I have writer friends, musician friends, artists... everyone who ascends those stairs shares the same "Oooohhh My" sigh of appreciation. It is true that the Opera House is inspirational. Not only does it move me to write (just this past week, a short comedy haunted screenplay, first notes for my next screenplay, and the beginnings of what I hope will become a music video for Barnaby Bright), but it inspires me to reach out to my network of friends to solicit their help.
In my life, thus far, I've come to know some amazing, talented, wonderful people. And, some are famous... even infamous! Next, let's consider the Potter's Field Vineyard and Pour House. When we planned the vineyard, my mom was still with us. She was fighting the hard fight against cancer (valiantly I'll add). We injected a lot of laughs and humor as the best medicine in what was a losing proposition. It was an afternoon of wine in the sunroom at the farm when we giggled and decided that Potter's Field would be a perfect name for the vineyard. I always liked the Potter's field section of the Deadwood, SD cemetary (keep a rock on my bookshelf for luck). The idea of the poor and downtrodden all being laid to rest in one lonely place is interesting to me. The potential for the vineyard to financially "break" us made Potter's Field seem ideal. Mom laughed that we'd "make wine to die for"! It was also the poor / pour play on words that prompted me to register the Pour House domain several years before the tasting room ever opened. But I digress... so here we have this vineyard, and neither dad or I know the first thing about these sticks we just planted (all 2.5 acres!) so I signed up for online Vitology courses. If you're gonna raise grapes, you'd better know something about it. Part of that course was a requirement to work in a vineyard. I didn't know anyone that had a vineyard, but Tom Sorenson did. So I called his friends, Kelly & Randy Meyer, at Superior Estates Winery, in Superior. I learned to build trellis and to prune vines. It was not only fun, but I made good friends in the Meyer family. AND... while there, I saw a photo of one of the most amazing houses I'd ever seen. I learned that it is Lew Hunter's Screenwriter's Colony House... right there in Superior. Who knew? SO... on to the next quinky-dink...
I got online to learn more about the Lew Hunter Screenwriter's Colony, and decided that although I had never even contemplated writing a screenplay, that it seemed like a place that was calling me to visit. I gathered up my courage, submitted a few pieces I'd written, applied for acceptance and received a personal phone call from Lew saying "you can write... I can teach you the format for screenplay...come to the Summer Colony!" I moved in to the Colony with my other 9 or so writer friends and spent, probably, the most therapeutic 2 weeks of my life. It was a bit cathartic- my screenplay ended up being an exercise in grieving...it just took over and spilled on to the pages. I don't even know how many times Lew or Dr. Dave and I would sit in the living room or on the screenporch, sharing a tear over my mother. Ironically, it's still a damn good script, but it is not yet finished. Lew just visited me at the PHouse on Thursday. He was checkin' in on our progress, and on my writing progress. Happily, I could tell him, while the first script isn't fininshed yet, I have completed a "short" that will soon be shot for a 10-minute movie (produced by the husband of a childhood friend), we sent the ghostly comedy off to an agent who is hoping to shoot ghost stories in Nebraska in August... and I had just spent my Tuesday evening, on stage in the Opera House, making mental notes for the next script. I add Lewis & Pamela Hunter to my list of people that I love, who love me. That's an honor. OK- quick re-cap... Thorpe - Warren Opera House - Potter's Field - Pour House - Superior vineyard work - Lew Hunter Screenwriter's Colony ... and there's more...
My second visit to the Colony was cut short, but in the time I was there I met my dear friend Lisa Kovanda, and the now-famous Jon Bokenkamp. Lisa was writing her first screenplay. Jon was already working in Hollywood and had written 2 or more movies for Angelina Jolie. And, one fine afternoon, Lisa and I had the privelege to do a table reading for Jon. He was pitching a series for HBO and there we were, around Lew's colony dining room table, reading. The network had expanded...I'd made new friends... but there was more to the story. This I know now.
A few weeks ago, Lisa (now President of the NE Writer's Guild) & I went to the grand opening of the World Theater. We gussied up, walked the red carpet, sipped champagne and went to support our fellow writer Jon, as it was his "baby" and his motivation to return to Kearney, rally 10 people and embark on a million+ restoration of the theater. It was great to see him, and of course, in Nebraska-fashion... I told Jon of our Historic Warren Opera House and asked for his help, and he said "OF COURSE... email me and I'll come have a look. We'll talk." And just then... 2-time Academy Award winner Alexander Payne entered the room. I grabbed eye contact immediately, said to Jon..."can I ask his help too?", smiled and headed to the corner of the theater where I could corner yet another famous Nebraskan. After a good 10 minute chat about the project and Friend, Nebraska, I asked him. Again, I got a "get me your number- you have mine... if not tomorrow, I will visit you before the end of the year." Cheers... Thorpe-Warren Opera House- Potter's Field - Pour House - Superior vineyard - Lew Hunter screenwriting colony - Lisa - Jon - World Theater - Alexander Payne - what next?
Filmstreams. Alexander Payne's brainchild to build the Ruth Sokolov Theater, where performance and movies take the stage. This "indie" and not-mainstream venue is, like our Opera House, a place that just breeds inspiration. And what better way to show our appreciation of Alexander's past commitments to restoring a theater in Scottsbluff, and his Filmstream efforts, than to join him in a wonderful fundraiser event? The PHouse will be closed next Sunday, and Connie, Gretta and I are heading to the Holland Theater for a series of parties and what I expect will be a very interesting interview event with Alexander and the beautiful Ms. Jane Fonda. Of course, Lew Hunter will be there... maybe Jon, I don't know yet... and the devotees of the Historic Warren Opera House will be on hand to rub elbows, gleen insight and tested ideas, to renew our inspiration and to sip champagne among some famous and infamous Nebraskans. Filmstreams has opened a "short movie" competition, with a July 25 deadline. Unfortunatley, "Dance of Silly Daisies" won't be shot until fall, so I'll miss this year's competiton, but who knows... maybe that is yet another part of this journey we are on to restore the beautiful Warren Opera House, and to again bring talent, creativity and appreciation to the stage and theater.
The Journey thus far: childhood friend - Thorpe - Warren Opera House - Potter's Field - Pour House - Superior Vineyard - Lew Hunter Screenwriter's Colony - Lew - Lisa - Jon - World Theater - Alexander Payne - Filmstreams - _____________ (childhood friend's producer husband films "Daisies") (ghostly comedy to be filmed in OHouse) (next script involving OHouse, Oddfellows) ? Maybe the time will be right to finish my first script. It think it's getting closer... I can feel it. Maybe some of this filming will inspire others to support our efforts... it all makes perfect sense.
And, I know where the journey ends. As I mentioned... EVERYTHING happens for a reason... in this amazing life of mine, thus far, my trail of "things" has lead me to a wonderful group of friends who have all dedicated every spare moment (and then some) to the success of the restoration. They see the possibilities. We share this vision. Happily, we forge ahead... giving tours, promoting, doing TV interviews, writing stories and plays and surrounding ourselves with all of these positive people in the state who "get it". I, honestly, just can't see how this restoration could not be a success. My chain of events has lead me to a place where I can see what has happened, why, and where the path is leading. That's a wonderful thing.
Thanks for reading...
Sunday, July 8, 2012
Because I Can!
One of the best parts of my Sunday morning is that I get to sleep in a little bit. PHouse doesn't open until 3PM, so that gives me a little lounging time. Granted, my baby dog Violet is an alarm clock that howls a wee bit earlier than I care for, but that's ok, as she goes outside and does her thing then comes back in for playtime until I get up to provide breakfast. Today she and Tank enjoyed prime rib steak tips (left from the 4th cookout) with their food. YUMMY!
The second best part of Sunday is that I get to decide what PHouse will have for a dinner special. We've had people call us on Thursday or Friday... even Saturday asking "What's the dinner special?" The PHouse team laughs and says, honestly, "We have no idea!" I just kinda depends on my mood... if it's hot, or cold outside... a lot of times I think about my Grandpa B and Gramps P, and wonder what they would want on that particular day. Both men were easy to please, and definitely "meat and potatoes" guys, so a lot of the time I prepare something that is a "full meal". Tonight it's roast beef, mashed potatoes and gravy and vegetable. To top it off, we'll do homemade shortcakes with strawberry/raspberry filling and whipped cream. Enough food for 2 people, but a "Grandpa-kind-of-meal". I also thought of my dear friend Mimi. Mimi lives at the Lake of the Ozarks. She and Leo are quite the "team" having been married longer than either can remember. They are a meatball-making-duo that was kind enough to share their secret with me. For whatever reason, I was thinking of Mimi, and thus we'll also have a savory Meatball Sandwich & chips on the menu. The sauce is simmering, the "balls" are rolled and in the freezer, and around 4:30PM they'll be added to the pot for cooking. The spices and meat flavors infuse the sauce and POW! It makes my mouth water just thinking about it. Two of those perfectly seasoned meatballs, sauce, melted mozarella cheese on a soft wheat hoagie... another YUMMY! (a little tricky to eat, but messy-goodness!)
So, I don't choose the menu until Sunday, because it "just kinda depends" on my mood and where my head is. It's not the popular decision among our patrons who "WANT TO KNOW" but, it's the way we're gonna do it... just because I can! What you can be sure of is that regardless of my mood, my memories, or the weather, the Sunday Special will be great!
Cheers and enjoy this little-bit-cooler Sunday!
The second best part of Sunday is that I get to decide what PHouse will have for a dinner special. We've had people call us on Thursday or Friday... even Saturday asking "What's the dinner special?" The PHouse team laughs and says, honestly, "We have no idea!" I just kinda depends on my mood... if it's hot, or cold outside... a lot of times I think about my Grandpa B and Gramps P, and wonder what they would want on that particular day. Both men were easy to please, and definitely "meat and potatoes" guys, so a lot of the time I prepare something that is a "full meal". Tonight it's roast beef, mashed potatoes and gravy and vegetable. To top it off, we'll do homemade shortcakes with strawberry/raspberry filling and whipped cream. Enough food for 2 people, but a "Grandpa-kind-of-meal". I also thought of my dear friend Mimi. Mimi lives at the Lake of the Ozarks. She and Leo are quite the "team" having been married longer than either can remember. They are a meatball-making-duo that was kind enough to share their secret with me. For whatever reason, I was thinking of Mimi, and thus we'll also have a savory Meatball Sandwich & chips on the menu. The sauce is simmering, the "balls" are rolled and in the freezer, and around 4:30PM they'll be added to the pot for cooking. The spices and meat flavors infuse the sauce and POW! It makes my mouth water just thinking about it. Two of those perfectly seasoned meatballs, sauce, melted mozarella cheese on a soft wheat hoagie... another YUMMY! (a little tricky to eat, but messy-goodness!)
So, I don't choose the menu until Sunday, because it "just kinda depends" on my mood and where my head is. It's not the popular decision among our patrons who "WANT TO KNOW" but, it's the way we're gonna do it... just because I can! What you can be sure of is that regardless of my mood, my memories, or the weather, the Sunday Special will be great!
Cheers and enjoy this little-bit-cooler Sunday!
Sunday, June 17, 2012
Happy Father's Day to all the dads who frequent PHouse... especially mine!
So, I know we welcomed the rain- would've been nice if 3 inches was over 3 days and not in 3 hours, but beggers can't be choosers. It brought a nice drink to the crops and the lawns, the lovely flower garden in the Yokel Courtyard behind PHouse... OH YEAH! and it brough HUMIDITY. Today is one of those days when I say "forget this midwestern nonsense; if it's gonna be this hot and humid, put me on the beach in Florida". Sitting on the veranda in Siesta Key, sipping a colada of some sort sounds a lot better than the forecast for the next 2 days! Oh, and let's not forget that the rear A/C isn't working right, making for a lovely 80 degrees in our kitchen.
Last night was another exciting one for PHouse and OHouse. The Society welcomed members of the Yorkshire Playhouse to town to discuss our upcoming joint venture. Watch the calendars for our first evening of MELODRAMA! September 30 we bring an informal, boo-hiss-throw popcorn at the villian evening of entertainment to the San Carlo Room. This will be what we hope will become a frequent show. Also watch for our first anticipated group outting to a Doane College theater performance. Oct 5-7 is Boeing Boeing.
Finally, I toured and chatted it up with 2 great couples from the Davenport area. One of the couples has purchased 2 old buildings and it's their intention to create an atmosphere much like the PHouse / San Carlo Room. Building improvements have begun, and we'll chat more about what I've learned the hard way! We also welcomed a fun group to our 8-top table. They ventured over from Hickman, and while there were strong ties to Milligan, they chose to spend their evening with us. Oh, and I've gotta mention the funny guy who has an app for everything, including computing how much his BAC was. He entered the correct number of glasses (2) but miscalculated his weight (by about 120 lbs) and was amazed that he might just have to sit at PHouse for several hours!? Hee Hee once we figured it out, it was commical- he was well within his legal limit... it was 2 glasses over several hours accompanied by our fantastic stuffed portabello mushrooms with garlic mashed potatoes... good to be a responsible driver, better to enjoy the wine sensibly! Super meeting everyone and sharing a few laughs!
Enjoy this hot, humid, muggy, clammy Father's Day Sunday!
So, I know we welcomed the rain- would've been nice if 3 inches was over 3 days and not in 3 hours, but beggers can't be choosers. It brought a nice drink to the crops and the lawns, the lovely flower garden in the Yokel Courtyard behind PHouse... OH YEAH! and it brough HUMIDITY. Today is one of those days when I say "forget this midwestern nonsense; if it's gonna be this hot and humid, put me on the beach in Florida". Sitting on the veranda in Siesta Key, sipping a colada of some sort sounds a lot better than the forecast for the next 2 days! Oh, and let's not forget that the rear A/C isn't working right, making for a lovely 80 degrees in our kitchen.
Last night was another exciting one for PHouse and OHouse. The Society welcomed members of the Yorkshire Playhouse to town to discuss our upcoming joint venture. Watch the calendars for our first evening of MELODRAMA! September 30 we bring an informal, boo-hiss-throw popcorn at the villian evening of entertainment to the San Carlo Room. This will be what we hope will become a frequent show. Also watch for our first anticipated group outting to a Doane College theater performance. Oct 5-7 is Boeing Boeing.
Finally, I toured and chatted it up with 2 great couples from the Davenport area. One of the couples has purchased 2 old buildings and it's their intention to create an atmosphere much like the PHouse / San Carlo Room. Building improvements have begun, and we'll chat more about what I've learned the hard way! We also welcomed a fun group to our 8-top table. They ventured over from Hickman, and while there were strong ties to Milligan, they chose to spend their evening with us. Oh, and I've gotta mention the funny guy who has an app for everything, including computing how much his BAC was. He entered the correct number of glasses (2) but miscalculated his weight (by about 120 lbs) and was amazed that he might just have to sit at PHouse for several hours!? Hee Hee once we figured it out, it was commical- he was well within his legal limit... it was 2 glasses over several hours accompanied by our fantastic stuffed portabello mushrooms with garlic mashed potatoes... good to be a responsible driver, better to enjoy the wine sensibly! Super meeting everyone and sharing a few laughs!
Enjoy this hot, humid, muggy, clammy Father's Day Sunday!
Friday, June 15, 2012
Rain, Rain, GO AWAY! We're soaked. Enough already. PHouse was a nice refuse for those who got caught out and about last night. Not much better than a delicious white pizza and a glass of Sindarella to ride out the storm! Tonight we'll welcome a private party to the back of PHouse, but we've still got room, so call and save yourself a seat. We're featuring our delicious stuffed portabello mushrooms as the dinner feature. Coupled with garlic mashed potatoes and served up on a piping hot cast iron skillet, it's tough to beat... and unbeatable when you add a glass of our new Temparia from Cuthills vineyards.
I want to sincerely thank EVERY ONE of you who voted for the Pour House in our pursuit of a small business loan. Chase Bank and Living Social have teamed (with FaceBook) to offer $250,000 grants to businesses. We needed to receive 250 votes to be considered... and we're at 275+ and counting. These funds would help us to expand our kitchen and seating, and also to upgrade the required fire code sprinkler system and install an elevator to the 2nd level. More seating, better kitchen, fire approved and benefitial to the Historical Society too, as it's their requirement to provide this prior to allowing events in the Opera House. With a simple modification and addition of a door in what is now a closet... POOF, PHouse and OHouse are connected. Elevator up! Check out our haunted, Historic Warren Opera House.
Last night was a total HIGH for members of the Society and PHouse as we welcomed one of the original owner families back to the building. The Samuelson clan was on hand to pump the player piano (I sang k-k-k-Katie- my grandpa Potter's favorite peppy song) and to enjoy PHouse food and wine. John performed in the OHouse, with his guitar... pleasing his grandfather we are certain. The Mary Mary was hosting a 2-table ladies bridge game, bringing players from Seward and Friend to the tables. Then, as if it wasn't exciting enough, we were joined by the leaders of the Doane Theater dept. They toured the building, chatted scenic design with Michael, and then committed not only to performances in the OHouse, but to include us in their required curriculum for theater development and community service. PHouse, OHouse and Doane working together to better the arts and entertainment of Saline County! I say CHEERS TO THAT! Watch the PHouse calendar, or your text messaging, as we'll be sponsoring a bus trip from PHouse (where we'll snack and sip) to Doane for a theatrical performance, then back to San Carlo for a night cap and patisserie. Who needs NYC... We've got Friend, NE!
Off on a grocery run. We'll hope to see you this weekend.
Cheers!
I want to sincerely thank EVERY ONE of you who voted for the Pour House in our pursuit of a small business loan. Chase Bank and Living Social have teamed (with FaceBook) to offer $250,000 grants to businesses. We needed to receive 250 votes to be considered... and we're at 275+ and counting. These funds would help us to expand our kitchen and seating, and also to upgrade the required fire code sprinkler system and install an elevator to the 2nd level. More seating, better kitchen, fire approved and benefitial to the Historical Society too, as it's their requirement to provide this prior to allowing events in the Opera House. With a simple modification and addition of a door in what is now a closet... POOF, PHouse and OHouse are connected. Elevator up! Check out our haunted, Historic Warren Opera House.
Last night was a total HIGH for members of the Society and PHouse as we welcomed one of the original owner families back to the building. The Samuelson clan was on hand to pump the player piano (I sang k-k-k-Katie- my grandpa Potter's favorite peppy song) and to enjoy PHouse food and wine. John performed in the OHouse, with his guitar... pleasing his grandfather we are certain. The Mary Mary was hosting a 2-table ladies bridge game, bringing players from Seward and Friend to the tables. Then, as if it wasn't exciting enough, we were joined by the leaders of the Doane Theater dept. They toured the building, chatted scenic design with Michael, and then committed not only to performances in the OHouse, but to include us in their required curriculum for theater development and community service. PHouse, OHouse and Doane working together to better the arts and entertainment of Saline County! I say CHEERS TO THAT! Watch the PHouse calendar, or your text messaging, as we'll be sponsoring a bus trip from PHouse (where we'll snack and sip) to Doane for a theatrical performance, then back to San Carlo for a night cap and patisserie. Who needs NYC... We've got Friend, NE!
Off on a grocery run. We'll hope to see you this weekend.
Cheers!
Monday, August 1, 2011
YES, We survived it!
Last weekend was the CRAZIEST we've had at PHouse to date. It started with a wildly busy Thursday... yes, Thursday. Why? We have no idea, but when a very lovely lady called and said "We surely don't need reservations on a Thursday..." we had to correct her. Chris, Mike and I prevailed without a glitch.
Then, on to Friday. Oh my! First, we bid good wishes to Chris for her hand surgery, then we jumped off the dock into deep water without a life preserver. We were thrilled to welcome both Morris 2 Morris (hip jazz father/son team that rocked the house) and Dominic Burke, the new winemaker from Superior Estates. The Morris team played up a storm. Dom poured up a storm, then kicked his heels up with a few of the local ladies. It was just too much fun. Noelle & I survived the kitchen duty and as usual, Mike & Tina had it covered on the front end. Todd, my friend... we missed you very much! Come back to the PHouse kitchen SOON!
And, no rest for the wicked... on to "A Very Brady Murder Mystery!" Joel & Erica arrived from Chicago around 5PM and 7PM was Show Time. Joel makes a great Jan Brady, but needs to shave his legs. A shout out to the DVM in the audience who performed the hymlic on "Jan", not only saving her life, but jeopardizing Joel's manhood :) Also, a big thanks to Chuck & Mike, my old state capitol friends who ventured out with their wives for some good laughs! It was legislative "old home week" with a call from my old committee page pal Jeff, and a visit from Dorothy, the former big cheese in the Approps office! Good to see and hear from old friends, always! Well, Sam did it... he's a jealous fool!
On to Sunday- a slow but steady day that started off with Passport Wine Tourers from Neligh, NE and a nice chat... wrapping up with Bumbleberry Tarts and vanilla ice cream for dessert with guests from Dorchester. What a wild weekend. We wouldn't want to tackle it every weekend, but it was a big success and lots of fun. Could not do it without the local support of many, and the love and help of PHouse staff.
Cheers, until next time!
Then, on to Friday. Oh my! First, we bid good wishes to Chris for her hand surgery, then we jumped off the dock into deep water without a life preserver. We were thrilled to welcome both Morris 2 Morris (hip jazz father/son team that rocked the house) and Dominic Burke, the new winemaker from Superior Estates. The Morris team played up a storm. Dom poured up a storm, then kicked his heels up with a few of the local ladies. It was just too much fun. Noelle & I survived the kitchen duty and as usual, Mike & Tina had it covered on the front end. Todd, my friend... we missed you very much! Come back to the PHouse kitchen SOON!
And, no rest for the wicked... on to "A Very Brady Murder Mystery!" Joel & Erica arrived from Chicago around 5PM and 7PM was Show Time. Joel makes a great Jan Brady, but needs to shave his legs. A shout out to the DVM in the audience who performed the hymlic on "Jan", not only saving her life, but jeopardizing Joel's manhood :) Also, a big thanks to Chuck & Mike, my old state capitol friends who ventured out with their wives for some good laughs! It was legislative "old home week" with a call from my old committee page pal Jeff, and a visit from Dorothy, the former big cheese in the Approps office! Good to see and hear from old friends, always! Well, Sam did it... he's a jealous fool!
On to Sunday- a slow but steady day that started off with Passport Wine Tourers from Neligh, NE and a nice chat... wrapping up with Bumbleberry Tarts and vanilla ice cream for dessert with guests from Dorchester. What a wild weekend. We wouldn't want to tackle it every weekend, but it was a big success and lots of fun. Could not do it without the local support of many, and the love and help of PHouse staff.
Cheers, until next time!
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