'Les Mis' and the Riverwalk
My disposition soared to high heavens last Tuesday.
At 2:34 p.m., I received an e-mail from Barbara Blomquist.
One of Barbara's friends in Europe had sent her the link to Susan Boyle's weekend performance of "I Dreamed a Dream" from "Les Miserables" on "Britain's Got Talent."
As I downloaded the link, I was filled with surprise and wonder as I listened to one of my favorite Broadway songs being perfectly performed by an unknown 47-year-old woman from Scotland.
For the next half hour, I repeatedly replayed the video, listening to the song known for its incredible range composed by Claude-Michel Schönberg. I even trembled with chills of adoration, unable to hold back tears of joy as I fell for this woman with an inspirational story.
By Friday, I'd received a link to the 7-minute video dozens of times. I'd joined millions of people throughout the world who likely remember the first person to send them the link.
Under glorious sunshine Friday afternoon, I met Mary Ann Bobosky on the sidewalk near Naperville's downtown Nichols Library. Our chat included Boyle's choice of song, her extraordinary talent and her heartwarming story. One of us used the cliché "You can't tell a book by its cover" which turned the head of a gentleman as he unlocked his car door. He entered our conversation about Boyle's stunning performance, more curious about the song than the singer.
"What's it from?" he asked. "Everybody seems to know it."
Then Saturday, while I was taking photos of groups of volunteers spreading fresh mulch in the flower beds along the Riverwalk, I bumped into Jennie Gates and Peter Gates. They mentioned they had been to a get-together Friday evening where folks gathered around the computer to view Boyle on YouTube.
If you missed hearing the amazing voice that melted the hearts of three seemingly cynical judges, simply search "Singer Susan Boyle" online and turn up the volume on your computer.
Woodcarving exhibit
Saturday at the Riverwalk Spring Spruce Up volunteer sign-up booth at the Free Speech Pavilion, woodcarver Shelly Weiser displayed his craft. His intricate work as well as projects by his young students showcased a sample of what will be exhibited this weekend at "Artistry in Wood." Touted as "the first of its kind in Naperville," the woodcarving show will be held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. April 25-26 at the Rubin Riverwalk Community Center, 305 W. Jackson Ave.
When Weiser retired six years ago, he began woodcarving. Today he teaches his technique to adults and youngsters, in part, via Naperville Park District programs. He's also a member of the North Suburban Carvers Club, host of the weekend show that will feature one-of-a-kind works by some of "the best carvers in the Midwest."
"Admission is free," he said, "but we'll be selling carved Christmas ornaments for our charity - the Shriner's Children's Hospital."
The two most frequently asked questions about his carvings: What kind of wood do you use? And how long does it take?
His answers: Basswood and it depends.
Earth Day
While a bunch of us from the Riverwalk Foundation huddled Saturday with Chuck Papanos, Riverwalk operations manager, our thoughts turned to Earth Day, April 22, a fitting time for the Riverwalk Commission to host two open houses.
During Wednesday's programs, Riverwalk commissioners will present development guidelines and a five-year plan for our city's natural treasure. Interested parties are welcome to attend presentations either at 7:30 a.m. or 7 p.m. The same formal introduction will begin each program, followed by time for public comments. Both open houses will be held Meeting Rooms A, B and C in the Naperville Municipal Center, 400 S. Eagle St.
Footnote
Late Saturday a Doubting Thomas sent the link to Susan Boyle's rendition of "Cry Me a River" from 10 years ago, suggesting in reality we'd all been set up for a publicity stunt by producer Simon Cowell.
If so, it doesn't matter to me. Just when we needed a little relief, I'd say we were touched by an angel.