THE BUZZ: Oz actor turns 100

THE BUZZ: Oz actor turns 100|

Ambrose Schindler, one of few remaining ‘Wizard of Oz’ actors, turns 100 in Petaluma: Ambrose - known in his youth as “Amblin’ Amby” - currently a resident of Petaluma’s Adobe House, marked his 100th birthday on April 22. He is, indeed, one of only nine surviving cast-members of the 1938 classic “The Wizard of Oz,” in which he served as Jack Haley’s Tin Man stunt double, and also appeared as one of the Wicked Witch’s marching Winkies (“Oh-Oh Oh-eeee-Oh!”). His proudest claim to fame, though, is playing quarterback for the USC Trojans, and being named MVP of the 1940 Rose Bowl. A happy birthday to you, Mr. Schindler.

The River Cleanup: Local river-lovers will be gathering this Saturday, May 6, to participate in a community clean-up along our beloved tidal slough. Participants are invited to come prepared with gloves, water bottle, hat, sunblock and proper attire (including shoes that can get mucky). Registration and a “safety talk” at 9 p.m. There will be a lunchtime barbecue with music and raffle prizes. The event begins and ends at the Petaluma Marina.

Tomales Regional History Center announces 17th Tea & Fashion Show: The historic Tomales Town Hall will once again be the setting of the organization’s annual Tea and Fashion show. The popular event will take place Saturday, May 20, at 1:30 p.m. Tickets are $30, and reservations can be made by calling Georgia Marino at 707-878-2434. The deadline for reservations is May 10.

Inaugural Petaluma Community Engagement Fair launches on May 7: Employing the theme “Where Do You Want to Make a Difference?” an alliance of local organizations is launching the first annual Community Engagement Fair, taking place Sunday, May 7, from noon to 4 p.m. at Lucchesi Center, 320 N. McDowell Blvd. The event will feature a number of local groups sharing opportunities for volunteerism and community engagement.

PEP ‘Home on the Range’ Fundraiser: The local senior-housing nonprofit once again throws its annual cowboy-themed benefit out at Tomrose Tractor Ranch in Santa Rosa, itself a kind of living museum to local agricultural history. Wear your best western duds and be prepared to enjoy farm-style grub, country music, games, hayrides - and the good feeling that comes from supporting a grade-A cause. 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Tomrose Ranch, 5307 Stony Point Rd. Tickets $20-$30. Visit PEPhousing.org.

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