In Gresham Bogey's attracts 'Cheers' friendly, neighborhood crowd
by Lauree Carlsen
Bogey's DJ Dave York
Photo by KT
Everyone has heard about the Cheers TV show, a bar where the locals reminisce, laugh and have a great time together. There's no need to look any further to find this down-home caring neighborhood crowd. It's right here at Bogey's at 1965 N.E. Division in Gresham.
The creative and innovative owner Carolyn Bailey brings with her years of experience along with a sweet, caring personality. With hard work and determination, she has recruited a fine crew to help her run this quaint little bar. Open seven nights of the week, you can always be sure something fun is planned for the day. The food is excellent as well.
Most everyone has watched the Cheers crowd on TV. At Bogey's, you will find a large group of regulars, coming to talk and catch up, listen to the singers old and new, play games, or catch a great meal of the day. Whatever you choose, you are bound to have a fantastic time with friends. This includes the employees and the beautiful owner Bailey. They make you feel so welcome that you want to come back again and again!
In business over 20 years, Bailey brings with her years of experience and great friends she has made through time. A lot of her employees have either followed her, or came to her when opening Bogey's two-and-a-half years ago. She speaks fondly of her employees and says, "If it wasn't for them, I wouldn't be this successful."
Vic Jones, former owner of Tippy Canoe, is on staff to offer his expertise as well. Gail, Julie and Erin, experienced and fun employees, help to keep things running smoothly. Bailey also attributes support from long time friend Greg Olszewski, as part of the wonderful journey.
This night, the bar was decorated with lights, spider webs and Halloween items. Karaoke is offered Friday and Saturday nights. This night, there was a great mix of singers, regulars and newcomers.
DJ Dave York brings with him years of experience, 1000s of songs to choose from, dynamite equipment and a nice, encouraging presence. All the singers did a great job. Among them were Steve Harrington, singing a great rendition of Family Tradition, a fantastic version of Minnie the Moocher sung by the waitress Julie; Turn The Page, a wonderful song by Greg Olszewski; a fun version of Leave the Pieces When You Go, sung as a duet by Suzanne and Erin, Drops Of Jupitar, superbly sung by Sarah Harmon. There were many more great performances!
Many more fun things to try at Bogey's include bingo Wednesdays from 7-9 p.m. Everyone is raving about Pub Quiz on Thursday nights. The theme changes each week and includes "woman in power", "super heroes", "past presidents", "name that tune", "Jeopardy", "riddles and anagrams" and "that movie". You can win cash prizes! There are one to six people per team.
Early risers catch the coffee clutch from 6:30 to around 10 a.m. This writer enjoyed a delicious, plump, filled omelet, fresh potatoes and fruit. Everyone says the biscuits and gravy is Bogey's "claim to fame." The full service menu offers everything from eggs and hotcakes to fish, hamburgers sandwiches and more. There is always a special and the prices are excellent. Come down and experience Bogey's for your fun, food and entertainment. You won't be sorry. See you there. (See ad for details.)