Gus Pappelis Productions supplied the musical entertainment for the Planned Parenthood Columbia Willamette Golden Anniversary Gala fundraiser/celebration last Friday. The Portland Art Museum Grand Ballroom was electrified with over 450 happily enthusiastic and energic guests. Our Governor John Kitzhaber and many other state officials and dignitaries were in attendance. It was a smashing success, and I am happy to report that the orchestra was superb: Carlton Jackson on drums, Neal Grandstaff on guitar, Brian Healey on bass, and yours truly on piano. Jazz and popular favorites were enjoyed by all. This was one of the nicest galas I have been to in a long time. Congrats to Charles M. and his staff on putting together a wonderful event.
Tomorrow we kick off a new MelloMac season at the Multnomah Athletic Club: a new Cole Porter review, Anything Goes (knowing the MelloMacs, it could just as easily been titled Let's Misbehave!). It will be a great musical for us to enjoy this year.
