6.21.24-Newsletter — Weekly Volcano (2024)

HAPPY FRIDAY NEWSLETTER 6.21.24

Weekly Volcano has three mini-series shows that you can view on our Youtube, Tiktok and Instagram Reels. They are called “Fred Finds” and “Phoenix & Friends” and “The Record Prophet!” You can catch the latest episodes HERE. Make sure to subscribe while you are there!

Arts & Entertainment:

• [image] mississippi 1

  Tacoma, WA- Tacoma Little Theatre closes out its 105thSeason with a powerful and joyful celebration,From the Mississippi Delta,by Endesha Ida Mae Holland, Ph. D. This production is directed by Michelle Blackmon.

  [image] mississippi 2

  Based on her memoir of the same title, Dr. Endesha Ida Mae Holland recounts her 20-year journey from humble beginnings in Greenwood, Mississippi, during the Jim Crow era, her civil rights activism, achieving her Ph.D. at the University of Minnesota and celebrating her success as a Pulitzer-Prize nominated playwright. Experience a story of triumph in the face of extreme adversity that expertly weaves through the trials and tribulations of Dr. Holland’s life relayed through the bodies and voices of only three actors, all in tribute to one of America’s unsung heroes.

  [image] mississippi 3

  Tacoma Little Theatre’s production of From the Mississippi Delta features the outstanding talents of Sonia Alexis, Whitney Crawford, and Canae Machelle Gray.

  [image] mississippi 4

  From the Mississippi Delta will run Friday, June 7, through Sunday, June 23, 2024, for a total of 10 performances. Evening showings are at 7:30pm and matinees are at 2:00pm.

  [image] mississippi 5

  There will be a special “Pay What You Can” performance on Thursday, June 20, 2024, at 7:30pm. Tickets for that performance are available now online, in person, or over the phone.

  The performance on Sunday, June 23, 2024, at 2:00pm will be an ASL interpreted performance.

  Tickets are $29.00 (Adults), $27.00 (Seniors 60+/Students/Military), and $22.00 (Children 12 and under). Tickets may be purchased online at www.tacomalittletheatre.com, or by calling our Box Office at (253) 272-2281. Group rates are available for 10 or more, and special FLEX passes for 6 are only $155.00.

  From the Mississippi Delta is recommended for ages 13 and up.

• [image] art1

  Spacious Rambles is a mixed media painting exhibit by Tacoma artist Becky Frehse in the galleries at Lakewold Gardens between May 31 - July 14, 2024. This collection of paintings are inspired by Becky's gardens, landscapes from travels, the presence of water, and an awareness of place and time as being momentary. The exhibit features both large scale acrylic paintings called "tone poems" and small oil paintings she completed while living in Oxford, UK in 2023.
  Becky has been making art in Tacoma since 1986. Her studio practice includes painting and drawing, collage, artist books, and site specific installations.
  Meet the artist at the Wagner House galleries at Lakewold Gardens on Sunday, June 23, 2-4 p.m.
  www.beckyfrehse.com

  [image] art2

• Time, tradition, and playful expressions of self are among the themes of the artwork in what if, the second exhibition of The Current: An Artist Award at Tacoma Art Museum.

  You’re invited to a what if preview on Friday, June 28. The exhibition opens to the public June 29 and is on display through October 13, 2024.

  Free for members and $10 for non-members.

  [image] what if 2

  The exhibition will feature works from artists Kristina Batiste, Le'Ecia Farmer, and Cristina Martinez, including a variety of mediums ranging from ceramics and textiles to paintings and prints. A sound design produced by Christopher Hill also is part of the exhibition.

  what ifexhibition preview
  Friday, June 28
  11 a.m.
  Tacoma Art Museum
  1701 Pacific Avenue, Tacoma

  Brief program with remarks from Victoria Miles, exhibition curator and artist award manager of The Current, An Artist Award, and Jessica Wilks, curatorial director

  Meet artist Cristina Martinez

  Tour the what if exhibition

  [image] what if 3

TV & Film Reviews

• Over the course of a decade, a Midwestern motorcycle club evolves from a gathering place for local outsiders to a sinister gang, threatening the original group's way of life.

  [image] bikeriders

  Motorcycle gangs have been a staple of rebellion in America for over seventy years, since Marlon Brando’s The Wild Ones. Whether it is a riding club, a non-profit, or a criminal syndicate, they all share several common characteristics, cigarettes, loud motorcycles, testosterone, and more. These characteristics are fully embraced in Jeff Nichols’s The Bikeriders, as he gives motorcycle gangs the Goodfellas Treatment.

  Inspired by true events, we follow a motorcycle club from their humble beginnings to their tragic evolution into a sinister biker gang. This tragedy is narrated by Kathy (Jodie Comer), who is being interviewed (Mike Faist) about the early days of the club for a photography book (the one on which the film is based). This narration unfolds in an episodic manner filled with sass and all of the mid-western quirkiness you can imagine. The first half is like a jukebox playing fun toons as our riders are living by the motto “I’m here for a good time, not a long time” as they get together during the evenings and weekends to race, eat food, and enjoy each other's company. However, after one of the riders is assaulted, this age of innocence turns into a nightmare as the gang becomes infamous in the region drawing unwanted new members.

  The tragic tale of The Bikeriders is wildly entertaining as it will make every woman swoon and every man lust for a motorcycle. You can smell and taste cigarettes, oil, and testosterone in every beautiful shot on 35MM Kodak Film. However, despite its entertainment value, it does lack in certain areas. The film doesn’t really do anything new with the genre, as it takes a conventional storytelling approach that we’ve seen before. Furthermore, the transformation of the gang from a communal riding group to a criminal gang doesn’t happen till the final 20 minutes of the film. I would have loved to have seen more of the tragic downfall of this gang, rather than it being three extended scenes. But with that said, I still greatly enjoyed this film.

  One of the primary reasons for that enjoyment was the performances of the ensemble cast. Jodie Comer is a riveting storyteller as Kathy. Her performance gives the film its sassy, affectionate, mid-western tone that is undeniably charming. Tom Hardy continues with his run of strange accents as Jonny, the leader of the Vandals. He channels Marlon Brando’s performance in The Wild Ones, but gives his twist as it is laced with melancholy and fatalism. Austin Butler will cause you to faint with his smoldering stare as Benny, with his live-fast-die-young restless personality that slowly turns into nihilism. While the remaining cast, despite having limited screen time, manages to bring their eccentric characters that will undoubtedly leave an impression on you.

  Overall, The Bikeriders is an entertaining look at the rise of mid-western biker gangs. Even though it doesn't do anything new with the genre, it has an undeniable charm that will make you want to purchase a motorcycle. Now it is time to rev your engines.

  My Rating: B

• Joy, Sadness, Anger, Fear, and Disgust have been running a successful operation by all accounts. However, when Anxiety shows up, they aren't sure how to feel.

  [image] inside2

  For the past several years, Pixar has been in a creative and financial rut. The pandemic forced the company to go to streaming and since that move, nearly every project since 2020 has been a critical and financial failure. So in a desperate move, Pixar decided to create a sequel to the acclaimed hit, Inside Out. Given Pixar/Disney's track record of giving unneeded sequels to perfectly fine movies, I was worried. So for Inside Out 2, it mostly works as a sequel to the original as it is a natural continuation of the story, even though it doesn’t have the spark of the original.

  The biggest issue I found with Inside Out 2 was that it follows the same story structure as the original film beat per beat but with more complex emotions. This repetitive storytelling structure, concerning sequels or new TV seasons, frustrates me. It is unoriginal and safe, and I am very disappointed in Pixar for choosing this route. To witness our characters go through the same arcs, the same MacGuffin hunt, and the same climatic conclusion, is frustrating as it adds nothing to the story. If it wasn't for its portrayal of anxiety, it would easily be one of Pixar’s shallowest projects.

  The character work also feels much weaker than the original film. Outside of Joy and Anxiety, the remaining characters are just there. They feel like one-dimensional stereotypes of their emotions. This is primarily due to the movie being overstuffed with characters and emotions. I understand that going through puberty is overwhelming and filled with many emotions, but with the film being so fixated on anxiety, it felt like all the other aspects of puberty were glossed over. I wanted to see more exploration of not only the other emotions but the other aspects of puberty such as physical body changes, sexual awakenings, for girls, getting their period, and whatnot. Sadly, the film decided to focus on anxiety as that is now a hot topic issue for children's movies.

  Now for its depiction of anxiety, this is easily one of the best depictions I have seen in a children's movie. The film perfectly portrays the emotional rollercoaster that anxiety will do to someone. From the fixation on what can go wrong to the accurate panic attack, this is an excellent depiction of anxiety and is digestible enough for younger audiences. Maya Hawke is easily the biggest standout here with her performances as anxiety. She finds a nuance in her performance where she doesn’t portray anxiety as a villain but as a victim to themselves. Which is a true descriptor of anxiety. However, outside of anxiety, this feels like a very shallow film. It feels like it is trying to say something important, but it sadly decided to play it safe. It is an important film to show to younger audiences because of its depiction of anxiety, but it gives nothing to chew on in the end.

  My Rating: B-

  See Also

  Emergency Preparedness in Action: Amateur Radio Field Day Highlights - Royal ExaminerThird Annual Gospel-Fest Unites Community in Support of Habitat for Humanity Housing - Royal ExaminerDepartments Archives - Page 33 of 135 - BusinessWesthair salon mod sims 4 kawaiistacie - ups downs aew rampage review feb 3

• When a construction worker unexpectedly joins a local theater's production of Romeo and Juliet, the drama onstage starts to mirror his own life.

  [image] ghostlight

  Grief is a strange thing. It is a powerful force that will either tear us apart or allow us to find inner peace. But our path to coming to terms with it is a long and winding road that will lead to somewhere unknown. Ghostlight tackles the uncertainty of grief through a quiet, yet beautiful lens through the healing words of Shakespeare.

  We follow Dan and his family as they are recovering from a family tragedy. Dan (Keith Kupferer) is a stoic, silent character who was taught not to show emotions from a young age. Thus, he struggles to cope with his grief, as silent brooding and violent outbursts are his only ways to manage. His daughter Daisy (Katherine Mallen Kepferer) is similar as the only emotion she manages is pure rage. While Sharon (Tara Mallen), barely manages to keep the family afloat as they are tearing each other apart. This perfectly sets the emotional stakes of this raw, yet beautiful look at grief.

  As an act of hiding, Dan joins a theatre group in secret as they begin a production of William Shakespeare’s classic, Romeo and Juliet. As the production moves along, Dan begins to confront his grief which is filled with embarrassment, anger, and tears. Through this confrontation we learn more about the family and why they are in such a state of mourning, as it tragically follows Shakespeare’s words. This is not a portrayal of grief that is sobby and filled with tears and screaming, but one that quietly sneaks past your defenses as it knows precisely when to thrust you into the sea of grief. And when you plunge into that sea, it hits you like a brick wall as it is frigid, yet warm with sincerity. It’s a bittersweet look at grief that will pull your heartstrings.

  I know the chances of an Oscar nomination are slim, but please keep Keith Kupferer in the conversation for Best Actor. Kepferer is remarkable in Ghostlight as his performance is a masterclass of subtle acting. Through his stoic character, we see the subtle layers of grief and trauma slowly eat away at him, till he eventually bursts into this restrained yet tearful monologue that any grieving parent will tragically know. Kepferere gives the best performances of the year thus far. Keith Kepferer's daughter, Katherine Mallen Kepferer, plays his onscreen daughter, and the two perfectly bounce off of one another as they explore their grief through the power of theater. The rage she exhibits is more than just teenage angst, but a cry for help as she navigates her grief. While Dolly De Leon brings much-needed warmth to this film as she is both cartoonish with her jokes and sincere with her acting company.

  In the day and age where being emotionally vulnerable and attuned with mental health is becoming more normalized, it is refreshing to see a film confront how hard it is to be in tune with our emotions. Ghostlight is not sobby and somber but is quiet as it navigates the complexities of grief. Please do not overlook this film because it has Shakespeare in it.

  My Rating: A

Neighborhood News

• TACOMA - Rebuilding Hope, the sexual assault center for Pierce and Kitsap counties, announces the purchase of their first-ever owned building located at 723 MLK in the Hilltop Neighborhood. This milestone marks a significant step forward in the agency's mission to provide healing and support for individuals impacted by sexual violence.

  [image] sign1

  A New Chapter for Rebuilding Hope

  For over 50 years, Rebuilding Hope has operated out of various leased spaces, most recently in the Dome District, where staff and resources have outgrown their cramped offices. Recognizing the urgent need for more space, Executive Director Carlyn Sampson initiated a search for a new location in January 2024. Collaborating with the agency’s Board of Directors, a Facilities Task Force was formed to identify a suitable space that meets the agency’s needs.

  The Hilltop Neighborhood emerged as the perfect location due to its proximity to the recently expanded Link light rail line, key bus lines, multiple hospitals, city and county legal buildings, and neighboring social services. With the new building, Rebuilding Hope gains full autonomy, providing increased privacy and confidentiality for their clients.

  [image] building

  Community and Partner Support

  Crux Commercial Partners played a crucial role in making this purchase possible by providing pro bono support to secure a competitive financing solution. Harrison Laird and John Bauder at Lee & Associates Commercial Real Estate Services were also critical partners in the process. Sampson stated, “We are so fortunate to have had guidance from industry leaders with Crux, Harrison and John, all of whom supported us through this major milestone in the agency’s history.” On May 16, 2024, Sampson signed the deed to the building, marking a new era for Rebuilding Hope.

  The building is currently occupied by tenants who will continue to operate through the summer. In the fall, preparations will begin to transform the space into a welcoming and accessible environment, with plans to open doors to clients in early 2025. Significant upgrades and repairs, including a new HVAC system estimated at $35,000, are necessary to realize this vision.

  "We’re thrilled to have found our new headquarters in Hilltop," stated Sampson, "...but we will undoubtedly need the support of our community and friends to help us achieve our vision of creating a safe and inclusive environment for all." Rebuilding Hope plans to launch a capital campaign in the coming months to support this project.

  The Impact of Sexual Assault Service

  The CDC estimates that over half of women and almost one in three men have experienced sexual violence involving physical contact during their lifetimes. Marginalized communities, including LGBTQ+ individuals, are disproportionately affected, facing nearly four times the risk of violent victimization compared to non-LGBTQ+ individuals.

  Rebuilding Hope provides healing services to all individuals impacted by sexual violence, regardless of race, ethnicity, color, religion, disability, pregnancy, national origin, sexual orientation, genderidentity or expression, age, income, veteran status, marital status, or any other basis prohibited by law.

  About Rebuilding Hope

  Founded by a group of young female students in 1972, Rebuilding Hope is rumored to be the first and longest continuously operating sexual assault center in Washington State. As the only state-accredited sexual assault program serving Pierce and Kitsap counties, the agency has responded to the region’s sexual assault victims’ needs for over 50 years.

  In January of this year, Rebuilding Hope expanded its services into neighboring Kitsap County, opening a satellite office in Bremerton. The agency offers a wide range of programs including Therapy, Advocacy, Education, and the Sex Trafficking and Exploitation Program (STEP), providing holistic support aimed at healing and preventing sexual assault and abuse.

• [image] heat mapping

  Over the summer, Pierce County is doing a heat mapping project and they need help. They will bring together cities, organizations and volunteers to produce heat maps of unshaded roads, buildings and low tree cover that get up to 20 degrees hotter. You can learn about the heat island effect at their website.

  TIME: 3 one-hour time slots in one day: Morning: 6:00 - 7:00 AM; Afternoon: 3:00 - 4:00 PM; Evening 7:00 - 8:00 PM.

  DATE: Primary Date: August 3rd and 4th (back-up). Secondary Date: August 10th and 11th (back-up).

  MAPPING LOCATIONS: Lakewood, Midland-Parkland-Spanaway, Frederickson, South Hill, Bonney Lake, Puyallup, Fife, Sumner, Tehaleh, Lake Tapps, and Gig Harbor.

  Learn More and Sign Up

• TAPCO Credit Union Celebrates 90 Years of Service: A Tribute to the Community and the 6th Ave. Branch.

  In the bustling heart of Tacoma, TAPCO Credit Union stands as a pillar of community support and financial stability. This year, as TAPCO celebrates 90 years of dedicated service, we recognize that our success is deeply intertwined with the support and trust of our community. The journey of TAPCO Credit Union is a testament to its commitment to the members and the community it serves, with the 6th Ave. Branch playing a pivotal role in this success story.

  A Legacy of Trust and Community Engagement

  Founded in 1934, TAPCO Credit Union began its journey as City Credit Union of Tacoma. Established by nine city employees who sought a better way of banking, the credit union’s first branch was located under the stairs of the Old City Hall in Downtown Tacoma. As membership grew, the name evolved to Tacoma-Pierce County Employees Credit Union and was eventually consolidated into TAPCO Credit Union to represent both Tacoma and Pierce County. As Tacoma and Pierce County’s oldest credit union, TAPCO is proud of its deep-rooted history in the community.

  More Than Just Holding a Checking Account

  At TAPCO Credit Union, we’re about more than just holding your money—we're about your financial well-being. Our employees are committed to serving our membership and our community. Together, we have committed to living our Vision, Mission, and Values daily, ensuring that your financial health is our top priority.

  Vision: Everyone achieves financial well-being.

  Mission: Bringing humanity to financial services.

  Values:

  We are people-centric.

  We are curious.

  We are inclusive.

  We are collaborative.

  We are a trusted partner.

  [image] 90 years

  Inclusive Membership and Democratic Control

  Today, TAPCO Credit Union’s membership is open to anyone living, working, attending school, or worshiping in Washington. Operating as a not-for-profit financial cooperative, those who bank with TAPCO are member-owners and benefit directly from the organization’s success. Each member has an equal vote, ensuring democratic control and reinforcing TAPCO’s commitment to serving its members’ best interests. TAPCO takes great pride in helping its members reach their financial goals and providing daily personalized, member-focused service.

  The 6th Ave. Branch: A Cornerstone of TAPCO’s Growth

  Among its various branches, the 6th Ave. Branch holds a special place in the hearts of both members and staff. Located in one of Tacoma’s most vibrant neighborhoods, it has become a cornerstone of TAPCO’s operations. Known for its friendly and knowledgeable staff, the branch has fostered strong relationships with local businesses and residents.

  Celebrating 90 Years: Honoring the Past, Embracing the Future

  As TAPCO celebrates its 90th anniversary, it reflects on its rich history and the many milestones it has achieved. From helping members navigate financial challenges to supporting local initiatives, TAPCO has always prioritized the well-being of its community—the 6th Ave. Branch, in particular, has been a hub for various community events and celebrations including Art on the Ave and ‎Día de los Muertos.

  Looking Ahead: The Next Chapter for TAPCO

  As TAPCO celebrates its rich history, it also looks forward to the future with great anticipation. Embracing technological advancements and innovative banking solutions, TAPCO is poised to revolutionize the way we serve our members. This commitment to community and member-focused service remains unwavering, ensuring that TAPCO will continue to be a trusted partner for generations to come.

  The 90th anniversary of TAPCO Credit Union is a celebration of longevity and a tribute to the community that has supported and grown with it—the 6th Ave. Branch exemplifies the spirit of TAPCO, embodying its values and mission. As TAPCO embarks on the next chapter of its journey, it does so with a deep sense of gratitude and a renewed commitment to serving its members and the community with excellence and integrity.

  TAPCO Credit Union’s history reflects its vision that everyone achieves financial well-being, its mission of bringing humanity to financial services, and its core values of being people-centric, curious, inclusive, collaborative, and a trusted partner. With these guiding principles, TAPCO is well-positioned to continue its legacy of trust and service for many more years to come.

  TAPCO Credit Union - 6th Ave. Branch

  2802 6th Ave. Tacoma, WA 98406

  See Also

  First Local Celebration of ‘Juneteenth’ Anniversary of the 1865 Freeing of 250,000 Texas Slaves Heats up the Gazebo Stage - Royal Examiner

  253.565.9895

  www.TAPCOcu.org

  Branch Manager: Jordan Anderson

Screenshots: We Scrolled So You Don’t Have To…

To advertise in this newsletter, email Advertising@Weekly-Volcano.com.