Celebrating Community, Preserving History & Looking Toward November
🎙️ Guests: TJ Sullivan from Hagan Hamilton Insurance and Tom Fohn, Executive Director of the historic Elsinore Theatre, joined us to talk about Hagan Hamilton’s monthly Community Champions PSA program and the exciting lineup of events coming to one of Salem’s most beloved landmarks.
🎭 We spent time celebrating the Elsinore Theatre’s 100th birthday, reflecting on its incredible history, the generations of Oregonians who have walked through its doors, and the special role it continues to play in Salem’s cultural life.
✨ The conversation also brought back memories of the legendary High Fever Follies productions—a fun trip down memory lane for longtime Salem residents.
We also discussed the challenges facing America 250 celebrations as some performers and organizations distance themselves from participation due to politics. It raised a larger question: if America has managed to celebrate major milestones during wars, depressions, and periods of social unrest, why does it seem so difficult to unite around the nation’s 250th birthday?
🤝 On the political front, we highlighted a recent Republican unity event discussed in Ed Diehl’s social media post. It was encouraging to see major Republican candidates coming together following the primary election and focusing on a common goal heading into November.
🗳️ We also discussed Governor Tina Kotek’s public opposition to IP-28, the controversial Oregon ballot initiative that would dramatically impact hunting, fishing, animal agriculture, and livestock production. Whether supporters agree with her or not, many observers see the move as politically strategic given the broad coalition opposed to the measure.
🌲 Finally, we had some fun with a satirical story about Oregon offering a “Free Trial Day for Outside” by waiving state park fees for a day. While the story was satire, it sparked a broader conversation about government fees, taxes, and the growing feeling that Americans are charged for nearly everything.
A lively show celebrating community institutions, Oregon history, political unity, and the importance of preserving both our local heritage and national traditions.
