Bits ‘n’ Pieces: Jimmie Rodgers coming to Camas

Jimmie Rodgers sets shows, book-signing in Camas

Homegrown Camas singer Jimmie Rodgers returns to his roots for three concerts and a book-signing Sept. 1 and 2.

Rodgers grew up a working-class kid in Camas, the son of paper mill workers. After graduating from Camas High School in 1951, he joined the Air Force. It was while serving overseas during the Korean War that he began playing guitar and singing to his fellow troops in the barracks.

Back in the States after the war, Rodgers was transferred to Memphis, and he began singing in clubs. His new arrangement and recording of the song “Honeycomb” launched his musical career.

During the 1950s and ’60s he was a well-known recording artist, amassing 23 gold records and 40 top 10 hits. He performed on “The Ed Sullivan Show,” “American Bandstand” and many other variety shows of the era. He toured with Buddy Holly and the Crickets. It was a heady existence.

Director of Bands Steve Kuske has led the intense band camp at Evergreen for 14 summers.

Last week’s scorching temperatures didn’t slow down the practices. “We just had more water breaks,” Kuske said.

About 75 percent of the musicians are returning band members. Drum major is Darrin Chhing.

“It’s one of the better marching bands we’ve had,” Kuske said.

“There’s a great vibe,” he added. “This show is a great example of what students can achieve when they put their hearts into it.”

Evergreen’s marching band has won the Northwest championship four times, most recently four years ago.