Last Year's Events

Classes kicked off on Monday with everything from makeup to clothes to self-defense to belly dancing.

Local stores and providers, both long-time friends of Esprit and newcomers, opened their doors. The literature table was filled with flyers and coupons to local businesses--more than one could possibly hope to visit during a mere week in Port Angeles. Karen Sistek kept her studio open all week for attendees to paint their own silk scarves and Black Diamond Bridal opened an impressive temporary store with wedding gowns, formals, shoes, jewelry, and acessories just for Esprit. (Reminder: the ladies at Black Diamond love playing dressup and look forward to serving you at a new permanent store next year!)

16 short skirts and their fans arrived in force at the nearby Delaney's pub and pool hall that evening to compete in the annual Esprit Pool Tournament. Congratulations to Pat and runners up Mickie, Cass and Stephanie!

Tuesday began with a full slate of activities such as winery tours, 9 ladies enjoying high tea in Victoria BC, and the 2nd annual Esprit/Port Angeles Art Walking Tour.

Participants in the Port Townsend shopping trip had a great time chatting all the way to Port Townsend. Among the shopping finds was a corner shop with updated styles and a downstairs with a huge array of gently used clothing. Every store was accepting and very helpful, including the local store which serves all the local red hatters.

The Tuesday Ascot night, held for the second year, was an unqualified success as was the competition for most outrageous headwear. The selection was truly artistic and our thanks go to the prizewinners and many participants.

The Significant Other program kicked off a week filled with well attended luncheons and wine and cheese gatherings where wine was drunk and food was consumed. Dotti Berry facilited groups on relationship dynamics; tears and laughter were shared.

On Wednesday the Port Angeles Community Players treated attendees to a private showing of the comedy production "Mania, Mania" consisting of vignettes written and produced by local entertainment figure Max Mania. Audience members Regina, Cassandra, Samantha, Andi, and Shea were fabulous in their impromptu stage debuts.

Afterwards, Esprit attendees were invited to join the cast party at Michael's restaurant for conversation and more laughs.

And after that the action continued late into the night with locals and Esprit attendees engaging in friendly conversation at the newly remodeled and expanded Red Lion bar and lounge as it would all week long.

On Thursday, a smashing time was had by all who attended the Afternoon Tea in the Red Lion dining room. On antique dishes hand-polished and donated by KD Antiques, everyone enjoyed Tazo teas, huge strawberries topped with Chantilly cream, scrumptuous tea sandwiches, and dainty cakes, scones, tarts, and truffles.

Thursday night saw attendees choosing from an amazing variety of activities which included private parties in rooms, the Girls' Night Out shopping specials hosted by local stores, the 1940's "Boy What A Girl" movie comedy at Landing's Restaurant, and a Marilyn Monroe look-alike contest at Kokopelli's. None of these activities were officially planned by Esprit!

For those who who really wanted to party, the scene at Castaways Nightclub was crowded and energetic with locals and Esprit attendees. The Nasty habits drew packed crowds and dedicated local fans at Castaways, The Lyre's Club, and Steele's Sports Bar throughout the weekend.

Local stores sponsored the Friday Fashion Show by loaning clothing and dressing tips and the on-site resources helped with makeup, hair, and organizing the backstage chaos.

The Friday Talent Show was held again at the historic Elk's Lodge ballroom. This year's "Petticoat Transicality" show included lots of costume changes to bring every imaginable petticoat theme to the stage (June Cleaver with a vacuum, a wedding gown, a poodle skirt, and more). Arthur won the Peninsula College Trans-Idol contest to advance to the "big show" at Esprit. Thanks to all the performers and the volunteers for putting on a show that got great reviews. (Maybe next year Kokopelli's Marilyn Monroe look-alike contest winner could have a guest appearance at the talent show too?)

Thanks to all the local Port Angeles attendees who completely filled the balcony to enjoy the show and the dancing later. All door proceeds went to the Clallam County Hospice and everyone rocked until midnight to the sounds of "The Walrus".

Dotti Berry and Roby Sapp (and the attention-grabbing 4-legged princess Riley) presented an inspiring keynote at the Saturday luncheon based on their experiences traveling the country and engaging people from all walks of life about listening, understanding, and accepting.

The final classes wrapped up on Saturday. The traditional and emotional graduation ceremony was held for first-time attendees and SO's. Congratulations to all of you!

Saturday night's "British Invasion" Gala was also a big success with many georgeous gowns on display. The outstanding music was provided by returnees The Oly Jazz Band & "Free Rain" who did excellent covers of many sixties favorites.

The traditional Esprit slumber party was a final time for pizza, soda, stories of the week, and a way to wind down from the week. Teddy bears donated by our teddy-clad slumberers were collected and delivered to the Port Angeles Fire Department teddy bear program to give to frightened children.