Randy Noojin's Guthrie at Community Kitchen benefit show

Reservations are requested by Tuesday for an upcoming concert honoring the centennial anniversary of Woody Guthrie's birthday.

During an open house marking the 100th anniversary of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 175, professional actor Randy Noojin will present his solo show, "Hard Travelin' With Woody," which is set in a union hall.

With its simple, strong and bedrock American values, Guthrie's music was considered the voice of the workingman. The singer/songwriter (1912-1967) based many of his songs on his experiences in the Dust Bowl era during the Great Depression when he traveled with migrant workers from Oklahoma to California and learned their traditional folk and blues songs. His best-known release is "This Land Is Your Land," but many of his songs are archived in the Library of Congress.

The Aug. 31 show will be free, but donations to the Chattanooga Community Kitchen will be accepted.

"What better way to celebrate Labor Day, our own centennial and the unique labor legacy of Woody Guthrie," said Barry Key, business manager for Local 175. "It's also a wonderful opportunity to contribute to the Community Kitchen, an institution that continues to help so many people here in our area."

Refreshments will be provided at the open house, which is set for 5 to 7:30 p.m. at 3922 Volunteer Drive. Noojin's one-hour performance begins at 6 p.m.

For reservations, call 894-3557.

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