Now that the holidays are behind us, it's time to breath a sigh of relief and get back to real life. I don't know about other businesses, but when I take a day off, the time must be made up somewhere down the line. It's a good thing I like a challenge!

I'm finally returning to my normal dancing routine. Carrie talked me into going out last Wednesday (when I should have been work ing!) to the Powell Street Depot, where Ed Neumann was featured. I love to watch the expert swing dancers swirl around the floor; I can do the basics but some of the moves seen here are close to pro-al. We stopped in Bodacious Classics to see what was shakin' and only encountered a hunk of a bartender, Chris, and one other lone soul, besides DJ Bob Harrop. Carrie and I decided to dance freestyle by ourselves, but by the end of the evening both men knew the swing basics.

If you like Italian food, try the Classico Italian Ristorante out near the airport. Myself and staff members Dorothy Garrison and Pat Reynolds were treated to one of the finest cuisines in town. From the marinara sauce to the lasagna and sausage, everything was exquisite and very tasty. This restaurant must be Portland's best kept secret. See Dorothy's article this issue.

That same night, we trotted down to the Spare Room for a taste of duo Larry & Teri to dance off our pasta. Thanks to a gentleman named Jack, I learned the "proper" way to waltz. Larry & Teri replaced Charles and Miki at the Spare Room recently and are attracting the same large crowd of dancers.

Another weekend, Pat and I headed out east county way to Bogey's to see Southern Breakdown. I hadn't heard the band in a while and I'm really impressed with their presentation. (See article this issue) We also stopped at Pub 181 for a dose of the Krazy Katz.

Upcoming events not to miss include Michael Allen Harrison's Valentine Concerts and the Fiddle Fiesta at RP McMurphey's (See ads this issue). Treat your heartthrob!
See you on the dance floor!

Bonnie Carter, ed.