Cooper, along with seven other celebrities like Seth Rogen and Soleil Moon Frye, is teaming with the Alzheimer’s Association in the “Who Wears Purple Best” campaign.  You can click here to vote for your favorite celeb and sign-up to become an Alzheimer’s champion.  It’s a fun and easy way to support the cause. 

My man Bradley needs your help.  He’s running in fourth place.  Seriously David Hyde Pierce is ahead in the vote. No offense to Mr. Pierce who is an incredible advocate for the cause.  But the former uptight Dr. Niles Crane wears purple better. What?  Come on and help get out the vote.  Polls are open through September 30th.

We’ll be screening “The Memory Loss Tapes” which look into the daily lives of seven people living with Alzheimer’s.  This groundbreaking project offers viewers the perspective of what it’s like to live with memory loss and chronicles people at all stages of the disease.  Staff from the Alzheimer’s Association as well as a local researcher will be on hand to answer questions and facilitate conversations after the movie.  Bridgeport offers a full scale dining room downstairs for anyone in need of extra nourishment. 

Hope to see you there.  If you can’t make it or live outside of Portland visit HBO to download the documentary.  Here’s to hope!

My favorite moment of the night was when Glen called an audience member down from the cheap seats to sing.  The band went for a walk along the waterfront before the show, and met Joseph, an aspiring singer.  Joseph made his way down to the stage, visibly shaking, and sang a rendition of “Brandy You’re a Fine Girl”.  I’m guessing it was a song he performed for his high-school talent show.  He wasn’t spectacular.  His voice cracked, he looked to band for guidance, and grinned sheepishly to the audience.  But he brought the house down.

Getting on that stage in front of thousands, with no preparation, rehearsal, or idea what to sing is the ultimate exposure–a risk others might be unwilling to take.  As his voice cracked and wobbled at the beginning of the song, the audience cheered louder, willing him on.  He found his rhythm, and the band swelled behind him.  When he finished we all jumped to our feet, not so much applauding an amazing performance, but applauding his willingness to fail.  

For me it’s a reminder to all artists how invaluable it is to put yourself out there, whether it’s your artwork hanging on a coffee shop wall, or reading your poetry aloud to a class of hungover students.  Thanks Joseph for taking the stage.  Thanks Glen for sharing it.       

I first learned sign language in high school, interpreted through my college years, and my first job after graduation was working in a deaf mainstream program.  The debate over cochlear implants has remained strong over the years.  The film is an unbiased look at the emotional roller coaster Paul and Sally Taylor embark on.  It’s also an honest, and sometimes gut-wrenching view into the experience of living in silence.  I’m thrilled I had the opportunity to see the film and meet the filmmakers last night.  Regardless of your stance on cochlear implants, it’s a must see!