Connie’s Corner • July 22

Hello to all my family and friends. I hope everyone is in good health and spirits.

Our July Birthday Karaoke was so much fun. Some really good singers. Of course, I’m sure Johnathon had something to do with my selection to sing Haper Vallery PTA. No, I can’t sing but it is sure a lot of fun our next Birthday Karaoke is August 10th. Hmmm, my sister Karen’s birthday is the 6th of August. Maybe, She’ll sing us a little ditty. I know her, not singing.

“Let’s Get Cooking with Connie” contest will resume in October. I understand summer is such a busy time for everyone. Gardening, sports, festivals, cookouts, vacations, etc. The theme in October will center around October Fest. July’s theme was summer side dishes. We had 1 winner Dan and Paul. Thanks, Big Al for the delicious raspberry / White Chocolate Bundt Cake.

Well, Al’s Comedy Show featuring Nathan, Liz, Stella, Jewel, and more with special guest “G” as Doodle Lynn and Company. “Under the Big Top” was the theme. Always a fun time. Jewel made me laugh as he was the fortune teller. He reminded me of Miss Cleo. I was really heartbroken that the Flea Circus was CANCELED! But I got over it. “G” of course is always adorable as Doodle Lynn his clown persona. Thanks to all who participated.

This past Saturday we had our 4th Annual Fundraiser for Sonya’s Cancer Caregivers Center. With the selling of 50-50 raffle tickets, Jello Shots, and a great show we raised $645.00! The special entertainment included Sonya who sings live and her daughter Tiffany did a dance interpretation while Sonya sang one of her songs. We had live vocals of a nice gentleman, Jay. ALSO! Sonya’s cousin, Tibby, Sung “The Way We Were.” Melody a performer from Atlant made a special appearance. Stella and I co-hosted and entertained as well. Sonya and her group brought enough food for an army! A lot of fun, laughs, tears, and most of all love filled the room.

I got a chance to talk to Fran. She said that Stan is doing better and is starting to eat. Keep up the good work Stan!

Come join Roger, Stella, and the boyz Wednesday, July 31st for our “Bear Happy Hour.” Every 3 months they hold a benefit and on the 31st the benefit is for Kaleidoscope Youth Center. We will have Jell-o shots, 50-50 raffle, and bring your own summer side dish. 2 prizes will be awarded for the 2 side dishes that raise the most money, which will be donated to Kaleidoscope.

Congrats to the Miss Gay Ohio America 2019 Courtney Kelly and her first alternate, Ava Aurora Foxx. I’m sure our Miss SOuthbend 2019 Sabrina Heartt, who also competed, did well as Cherry Poppins and the other contestants also. I hope Courtney has a great year as “Miss Gay Ohio America.”

Our next trip down memory lane is 1976. CHANGES which was on 161 near Cleveland Ave and Across the street from Denny’s (where I worked). The north end of Columbus was booming with the Twilight Lounge which was the first gay-owned show bar owned by Shep and Pinky. We also had, at Amos Shopping Center, another show bar, the Old English Tavern, whose show director was Misty Blue. Also on Oakland Park off Cleveland Ave. was another show bar, Cleopatra’s. Georgia, Brandy, Charlotte, and I all performed at these bars. Drag was finally legal! That meant there were times we performed at straight bars and private parties. No one had to keep the original Halloween Ball a secret. back in the earlier day’s, the 50s and 60s, Halloween Parties were held in a private home. ONLY the day of the event would anyone know where the party would be held for fear of police harassment for those in drag! We’ve come a long way baby! I always enjoyed the stories of my older friends when I was younger and still do when I’m talking with Marvin. I will always cherish those times and memories.

Hey does anyone remember joining Larry Wilson “Hank Snow” Fan Club? It was only a $1 a year. What fun times we had!

Speaking of fun times, I am going with my cousins Leora and her sister Clarice to Sandusky to see our cousin Nadean. Whom I haven’t seen in 17 years! Were going to lay out by a pool and laugh and eat and relax. I will be back Thursday for blender Drinks!

I will close for now leaving you with this one last thought: It’s wonderful to go down memory lane of fun times or loved ones who have gone, but we must live every day to its fullest to make more wonderful memories.

Take care of yourself and each other.
Love,
Connie