Natalie Haberman Ladd

Jul 25, 2023 | portlandphoenix.me | Natalie Haberman Ladd

The elderly and infirm willingly speak of things they regret. Many say they regret not spending more time with loved ones, not exchanging grudges for forgiveness and not being more spontaneous. But, unlike them, and if given half a chance, I am certain dogs would not share in those regrets. If anything, dogs are indeed spontaneous and live in the moment.

Jun 13, 2023 | portlandphoenix.me | Natalie Haberman Ladd

Before each upbeat, lip-syncing dance number, drag queen Mama Martini (she/they) readjusts one of her 18 wigs. She also makes sure her signature bold blue eye shadow is on fleek. With things as perfect as possible, Mama Martini is ready to blow up the spotlight and live her supercharged best life. If you happen to be in the audience, chances are good that you will be too. Such was the case when I saw her at a local drag brunch in February.

Jan 31, 2023 | portlandphoenix.me | Natalie Haberman Ladd

Ancient Jewish holidays refuel my resolve, chutzpah and ability to make sense of our world. All the holidays hold lessons and on the veneer some can be simplified by the amusing but accurate adage: “They hated us. We fought. We won. Let’s eat!” That’s Passover and Hanukkah for sure, but people may be less familiar with the raucously celebrated holiday of Purim, which takes place in March this year.

Jan 24, 2023 | portlandphoenix.me | Natalie Haberman Ladd

The Thursday before New Year’s Eve was a cold sunny day. I remember clearly because at 7:30 a.m. I took my dog Mellie out for a walk and felt as if things were exactly as they should be. Mellie barked at Mia, a ferocious eight-pound chihuahua who never fails to make her neck fur stand on end. I waved to the women speed-walking past us and noticed their new matching fluorescent green HOKA sneakers.

Jan 17, 2023 | portlandphoenix.me | Natalie Haberman Ladd

advertisementIn the fall of last year, I took “The Fight for Rights’” tour, an educational civil rights tour hosted by Red Clay Tours in Birmingham, Alabama. The experience further deepened my belief that while progress has been made, there’s so much more to do in our public and private daily lives to identify and weed out racism in this country. Like most of us, I recognize and honor the work of the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. on his day of tribute each January.