It was a tough decision this week whether to conduct an interview with our beloved Black Bird — of Medford store fame who’s turning 60 — or to share about the “Sleeping Beauty” ballet performed by the State Ballet Theatre of Ukraine. Most know by now my interests are diverse and unpredictable. I chose the local celebrity. 

Fathered by Lee Hobbs, Black Bird fledged in 1965. Since he is strictly a homebody, I agreed to meet with the sizable bird on a pleasant spring afternoon at his residence in Medford at 1810 W. Main Street. 

As we settled in for a nice chat on the eve of his 60th birthday, an important milestone indeed, it was challenging for us to hear one another over the traffic noise. I needed a scissor lift. Plus, I couldn’t read him like I normally do with an interviewee because his facial expression never changed and his beak remained agape. 

I’ll bet he’s great at poker. He appears ever jolly and satisfied with his (parking) lot in life. Anyway, here’s how it went. 

P: So, may I call you Black Bird or …?

BB: Black Bird is fine.

P: You’ve been standing out here for 60 years now in all kinds of weather. How does it feel to be such a local icon and loved by the masses? 

BB: I don’t feel a thing since I’m made out of rebar and fiberglass. I sometimes wish I could see what’s behind me, but it’s OK. 

P: You’re pretty big for a blackbird. Just how tall are you Mr. B.?

BB: Yes, I stand out in a crowd. They tell me I’m 29 feet tall, but don’t let that throw you. I’m gentle and can’t move a muscle, because I haven’t got any. Heh, heh! A bird my size would normally be capable of eating a small village. Not that I would. 

P: 60 years. Most blackbirds only live to about three. To what do you owe your incredible longevity?

BB: I only eat whatever happens to fly into my mouth. I keep the calories down that way. Once it was a whole pigeon.

P: I understand you plan to throw a big birthday bash for the community to help you celebrate turning 60. When is that to happen?

BB: Yes, it’s going to be a big deal. It starts this Thursday, May 1. They’re giving away prizes to the first folks to come through the doors. Mugs, buckets, gift cards, and what-not. I don’t get anything though. And it’s my birthday. 

P: I understand you did get a nice bath for your big day. Did that feel refreshing with the giant scrub brush and all?

BB: There’s that word feel again. 

P: We can move on. But honestly, do you sometimes wish you could fly away like the starlings walking around you here in the parking lot? 

BB: With these arms? Are you kidding? No, but seriously, these brother birds worship me. Yeah, they think I’m Arnold Schwarzenbirder or something because I’m statuesque. They believe I fell out of heaven and that I’m the one leaving popcorn and hot dog scraps lying around for them. 

P: Well, I know my readers and I want to wish you a very happy 60th birthday, and hey, my 60s have been the best. 

BB: I’d hate to see the worst. No, I’m kidding with you. Most people don’t know I’m a big joker. But, seriously, I heard you plan to attend the ballet this evening.

P: How did you know that?

BB: A little birdy. Have a great time and as you watch the dancers float over the stage, remember me standing here for another 60 years without moving and come by to say hello once in a while. 

P: Okay, sure will, Black Bird. Thank you for taking time out of your busy day to talk with us.  

On that note I left to change gears, change clothes, and get ready for the ballet. But you can read about and see pictures of Black Bird’s beginnings on their website.  And come out to celebrate his birthday all weekend long. 

Ballet impressions will have to wait. Who knew the Black Bird was such a talker.

Peggy Dover is a freelance writer/author who may be losing it altogether soon. Reach out to her soon at peggydover@gmail.com.