Jess of The Bumper Jacksons

Meet the Bumper Jacksons. Their trad jazz and pre-war country music paint’s America’s early history. The Bumper Jacksons boldly and elegantly balance paying homage to the traditions while fashioning their own unique, DIY style. This duo is a Carhartt sorta bunch. They even camp out after playing at events and do three week long biking music tours.

Jess constructs all of her own washboards. Each one is a playable instrument and hangable piece of art. She also gives washboard lessons. I got to try my hand at a few tunes, and it was a blast.

Shop Jess’s look here: Force Performance T-Shirt, Straight Fit Slim Jean, & Fargo Jacket

Exploring Portland

I just got back from a lovely 9 day trip in Portland. I wore my Rockford Windbreaker almost everyday. With all of the Portland weather, it was perfect. Not too heavy but could still help me ward off the elements. Getting to know the city was a blast. There was so much to see and do. Here were a few of my favorites.

Wahkeena Falls: This waterfall and hiking spot is absolutely breathtaking. It’s on the way to the bigger attraction, Multnomah Falls. I prefered Wahkeena because it was a more intimate hike, with views that were just as lovely.

Food Trucks: Some of the best meals I had on my trip were from food trucks. Portland is a food truck mecca. You can get almost anything! A particularly delicious breakfast I had was from Alice’s Bagels.

Powell’s Books: Whether you’re a book worm or not, Powell’s bookstore is a wonderland. Floor after floor, room after room of wall to wall books… You’ve got to check it out, take a few pictures, buy a wacky book.

 

Julia of Capital Repertory Theatre

Who doesn’t love a woman who’s skilled with power tools? Meet Julia, the Technical Director at Capital Repertory Theatre in Albany. She’s been in the tech business for 5 years, behind the scenes building sets for theatrical productions. It’s not often that you find a 23 year-old in her position. Julia’s shop is located in The Egg, one of the most interesting buildings I’ve ever seen. Way to go, girl! It’s always good to see young people with their dream jobs.

The Women Who Play With Fire

Liz Campanella and Ashley Bertling, fire performers with the Pyrotechniq troupe of Chicago, are some awesome ladies. I was blown away by their skills as I watched them perform in a back alley in Wicker Park, with a sweeping view of the ‘L’ train in the distance. Let’s be honest, we all love fire— the way it dances and flickers from one second to the next— there’s something captivating about it. From fire umbrellas to flaming hula-hoops, I was in awe of how brave Liz and Ashley were and how they bridle such a beautiful element to turn it into an art form.

Pyrotechniq performs anywhere for any kind of occasion. If you’re interested in learning more about how you can book them for an event or take some lessons, click here.