See exclusive photos of her selection ceremony, and learn why she says she’s looking forward to representing Northeast outer East Portland during this year’s citywide festivities …

Parkrose High School’s Principal, Ana Gonzalez, greets students who fill the school’s Theater for the 2010 Portland Rose Festival Princess Selection Ceremony.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
The Parkrose High School Theater was packed with students and family members, as the school’s 2010 Portland Rose Festival Princess Selection Ceremony began promptly at 2:35 p.m. on March 11.

“We welcome students, family members and dignitaries,” smiled Principal Ana Gonzalez, “to this, our 24th Princess Selection Ceremony.”

The Master of Ceremonies, Parkrose High student Nathan Clements, got right into the program by introducing the five-member Parkrose High School Court.

Cheers ring out as candidates from the Parkrose High School Court – Bryanna Phillips, Rebecca “Becci” Read, Yian Saechao, Molly Voorhees, and Belinda Washington – are introduced to the audience.

The 2009 Portland Rose Festival Parkrose Princess, Ciara Dines, addresses the audience and advises this year’s candidates.

Stepping up to the podium, the school’s 2009 Portland Rose Festival Princess, Ciara Dines, received a warm welcome from the audience. “My advice to you is to experience every moment, and enjoy it to the fullest. Either running to be selected, or being a Portland Rose Festival Princess, is a great experience. I thank you for choosing me [last year] and giving me the opportunity to represent Parkrose.”

Tension builds to the announcement this year’s Parkrose Princess.

Princess Becci Read acknowledges her selection.

Introducing Princess Becci Read
As her first act as 2010 Portland Rose Festival Parkrose Princess, Becci Read stepped up to the microphone and spoke to the audience.

“Thank you so much for this opportunity,” Princess Becci said. “I know that so many of you told me that I could do it. You supported me throughout this. I just want to say thank you again. I really appreciate your support….”

Princess Becci Read greets her subjects during the Selection Ceremony.

Immediately after she was selected, Princess Becci told us, “The important thing about this, is the great experience of being involved in the selection process. And, more important [than that] has been getting to know the other candidates.  They have all been really supportive. It’s an amazing experience; I think everyone should be involved [in some way], if they can.”

Princess Becci said she was a “Parkrose girl, through-and-through” – having attending Sacramento Elementary, Parkrose Middle School, and now Parkrose High School.

“I look forward to representing Parkrose at the 2010 Portland Rose Festival; I want to show Portland how amazing Parkrose is,” Princess Becci said. “We are an awesome school, even though we are way out here in outer east Portland.”

Princess Becci Read poses for her first portrait with her court: Belinda Washington, Bryanna Phillips, Molly Voorhees, and Yian Saechao.

Princess Becci Read, a Parkrose High senior, plans to attend Pacific University and practice pediatric physical therapy. She’s involved in the National Honor Society, Varsity Volleyball (4 years), Student Government, Mock Trial, and Outdoor School.

She lists club volleyball, running, tutoring, and baby-sitting as her activities and hobbies.

Here’s our own formal portrait of Princess Becci of Parkrose!

Each selected Princess will be awarded a $3,500 scholarship, courtesy of The Randall Group; Pacific Power provides a mentoring program of female executives who are matched with the court members, as well as being a sponsor of the Queen’s Coronation.

Tickets for the 2010 Queen’s Coronation are on sale now, online: CLICK HERE to view the website to make your purchase – or to gain more information about all of this year’s Rose Festival festivities.

© 2010 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Find out why this event has – for decades – been much more than just a social event, for outer East Portland students and their families …

Music by the David Douglas String Quartet welcomes guests to the annual Father-Daughter Banquet.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Even though it was well after school hours, the David Douglas High School North Cafeteria was abuzz with activity throughout the evening on February 24, as the 2010 Father-Daughter Banquet got underway at 6:00 p.m.

Taking time from making sure all of the 252 guests were well-fed and entertained, event coordinator Heather Robinson stopped to talk with us about the event.

Heather Robinson, Chair of the 2010 David Douglas Father/Daughter Banquet, pauses for a moment with “Gina the Mime” (Wollrabe), a/k/a ChaCha the Clown.

“Welcome to our 54th edition of the Father-Daughter Banquet,” greeted Robinson. “Some people think this event is only for those involved with the high school. But, actually, it encompasses the entire David Douglas School District.”

This special night, featuring dining and entertainment, is produced each year by the District’s “Dad’s Club” – and has been, since even before the school district boundaries were firmly established. “The ‘Dad’s Club’ was started by school administrators within the School District. But, it’s been carried on by parents, alone, over the years. Even though we do have strong ties with the high school, we also draw from all of the schools in the District, as well.”

David Douglas High School Principal John Bier is served a plate of tasty food by student volunteers.

Gilbert Park Elementary School students Gwen and Maya Weeks, here with their dad, Ben Carlascio, say they’re having a great time at the event. “I got an invitation to the banquet, and I’m glad we decided to come,” Carlascio says.

The David Douglas Dad’s Club, Robinson noted, is comprised of parents, grandparents, students, and employees who volunteer their time to support activities within the School District.

“Our primary focus is to give money to students, teachers, and coaches who have specific school-related needs,” said Robinson. She added that in addition to the banquet, they also raise money with their July 4th fireworks stand on SE 122nd Avenue and Division Street, in front of Pizza Baron – as well as by recycling Christmas trees, and by providing barbecues for car shows and other special events.

The David Douglas Flag Team performs a dance number at this year’s banquet.

Fun is job number one
While the Dad’s Club has a serious purpose, the goal of the banquet is for attendees to have fun, Robinson explained. “We have all kinds of activities taking place to keep our guests entertained and having a good time – both on stage and off. The main reason we do this is to help build a sense of community. Even though the David Douglas District is huge, in many ways it’s like a close family. This event helps tie people together.”

Robinson was quick to point out that she doesn’t produce the event by herself. “We have 21 young people from the school volunteering, as well as members of the Dad’s Club. I especially thank the David Douglas High Activities Director, Kara Kauble. She really ‘lifts me up’, and I appreciate all she does both for the school and this event.”

The Father-Daughter Banquet was sold out again this year – and look at all the happy participants!

Members of the Dad’s Club are in the process of seeking more members willing to help out in the future, Robinson said. “We meet the first Wednesday of each month at 7:00 p.m. in the South Building Faculty Lunchroom. If you don’t have time to volunteer, please try to support our endeavors, so we can continue to provide for our community’s kids!”

For more information, contact David Douglas High’s activity director, Kara Kauble, at
(503) 262-4409.

© 2010 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Find out what a master of traditional Chinese medicine says about the effects of food on health at his Midland Library lecture …

-1 Dr. Guohui Liu introduces his lecture, “Healing with Foods”, at Midland Library.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
An instructor at outer East Portland’s Oriental College of Medicine since 1995, Dr. Guohui Liu, M.Med; L.Ac., came to  Midland Library on February 28, and presented a lecture he calls “Healing with Foods”.

“I was trained in China,” Liu began, “and earned my Masters degree in Traditional Chinese Medicine in 1985.”

Liu began by telling the class members, “Factors affecting disease include invasion of pathogens, improper foods intakes, overstrain, and prolonged imbalanced emotions.”

Next in importance, and one of the best ways to stay healthy, Liu explained, is “proper intake of food.”

The first governmental official to guide people in food intake was assigned in the Zhou dynasty, in 1060 B.C. “Taking foods and having sexual activity are basic desires for human beings. If one does not eat foods for a half day, energy would be weak. The reason for a normal person to die due to not taking foods for seven days is ‘exhaustion of essence, qi and, body fluid’. The most important thing to keep the body healthy is to pay attention to food intake.”

-2 Dr. Liu helps class members understand the many and varied qualities of foods that can lead to improved health.

Going into more detail during his class than we can convey in this article, Liu talked about four general principles for proper food intake:

• Time
• Temperature
• Quality
• Quantity

“It is important to eat the current foods, each in their seasons,” Liu also stated. He showed a chart of “element types” including grains, fruits, animals, and vegetables.

Because he said it would be inappropriate to diagnose and suggest specific treatment during the class, Liu concluded his talk by outlining the “causes and qualities” of diseases, telling how a balanced diet can help the ill find new pathways to health.

Liu said he plans to give this lecture again at Midland Library. Check our Community Calendar to discover many free, informative events taking place each month in East Portland!

© 2010 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Discover why tickets are selling fast for this wacky comedy about a city family’s countryside ‘dream-home-turned-money-pit’ now playing weekends through March 13 at the Horner Performing Arts Center …

Annabelle Fuller (played by Quinci Daoust) takes a look at the charming “fixer-upper” her husband, Newton (Carson Cook) purchased without telling her; their daughter Madge (Rachael Zeller) and her soon to be jilted heart-of-gold boyfriend, Steve Eldridge (Matt Richardson) survey their “new” living room.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Off to a good start on opening night, March 5, the actors and stage crew of David Douglas High School Theater Department have “moved into” their new winter comedy home, “George Washington Slept Here”.

The play, which continues on March 6th and also runs March 11, 12 and 13, is best described as a slapstick “house from Hell” farce.

Newton and Annabelle learn from friendly neighbor Mrs. Douglas (DeAnna Gayomali) that, in fact, George Washington didn’t ever sleep in the house – it was a fable made up by their shady real estate agent.

Annabelle and the family discover that the roof is in as bad condition as the rest of the house, as rain streams in during a storm.

Fun, but a technically demanding play
One reason for choosing this particular play, Judy LeCoq, a David Douglas High theater instructor, and the director of this play, told us is that “George Washington Slept Here” requires a high degree of technical expertise to play it out on stage.

“Our Technical Director, Mark Taylor, and his crew, bring this show to life,” LeCoq noted. “The house [set] is in shambles when the curtain rises. Then, it’s refurbished during scene changes. When it rains, the ceilings actually leak. And, you won’t believe what happens to the set by the show’s end!”

Another reason to mount this show, LeCoq said, is because of the humorous situations and clever dialog by the playwrights, Moss Hart and George S. Kaufman. “Just like back when it was originally written, people today need a break from the cares and worries of the day. There’s a lot of satire and wit in this show. It’s a play where people can come in, sit back, and have an evening of laughs.

Each time local handyman Mr. Kimber (Corey T-Cedarleaf) comes to see Newton, he brings bad news – and a list of “needed purchases” that all cost more than estimated.

On short notice, rich-but-obnoxious Uncle Stanley J. Menninger, the “ball bearing magnate from Pittsburg” (Josh McKinley) arrives – ready to settle in for “a spell” and demand services one would expect in a fine hotel.

About the story …
Not many know that “George Washington Slept Here” was originally written as a stage play in 1940 by Hart and. Kaufman, but became known, thanks to a 1942 motion picture adaptation staring Jack Benny, Ann Sheridan, and Charles Coburn.

Tired of city life, Newton Fuller – unbeknown to his wife – buys a decrepit house in the country, in which George Washington supposedly slept. The list of things wrong with the house – and the very property on which it’s built – keeps growing exponentially.

The costs keep mounting as they try rebuilding the wreck of a house; and, the Fullers are beset with one problem after another.

Add to this their kooky clan that includes a thieving, ungrateful nephew, a daughter who is falls under the spell of a suave-yet-itinerant (and married) actor, a pregnant-but-unwed maid – and a grumpy neighbor who claims rights to their driveway – and water.

Madge’s young friends also come out for the weekend – but with steady rain falling all weekend long, their mood sours while Uncle Stanley snoozes.

Annabelle finds out why her husband has been so preoccupied during the weekend – she reads the foreclosure and eviction notice that’s been delivered.

Annabelle’s wicked nephew Raymond (Ian Booth) steals more than money from her purse – he plans to “sell out” his in-laws by giving secret information about the property to their grumpy and greedy neighbor.

To make matters worse, they find out it wasn’t President George Washington who had rested in the abode – instead, it was a much less savory character in American history.

• Can this family turn their run-down hovel into a warm, happy home?
• How will problems with their daughter and obnoxious, evil nephew resolve?
• Can they find a way to tolerate Uncle Stanley, the world’s most demanding houseguest – and millionaire?
• Will the Fullers find a way to pay the mortgage – just days before foreclosure?

Find out, as you watch the interaction of the colorful characters in ever-more-complex situations in this comic play, suitable for all ages. While there’s some broad slapstick humor, the show is family rated.

When Uncle Stanley “fesses up” – it looks as if the Fuller’s last hope for redemption – and their home – is gone. You’ll be surprised at the plan this clever liar comes up that might just save the day!

After smugly swaggering into the Fuller’s home, greedy neighbor Mr. Prescott (Ken Tang) starts backpedaling when Uncle Stanley puts the “whammy” on him!

Show continues through March 13
“George Washington Slept Here” premiered on March 5, and runs on March 6. It also plays the evenings of March 11, 12 and 13. Curtain time is 7:30 p.m. for all performances.

Tickets are $7 for adults; $5 for students and seniors. The Box Office at the theater is open on Monday, Wednesday, and Fridays from 3:00 until 5:30 p.m. on school days, and also one hour before the show. Call the box office at (503) 261-8270 with questions.

The Theater and Box Office are located in the David Douglas High School Horner Performing Arts Center, 1400 SE 130th Avenue (between SE Stark Street and SE Division Street) To visit their website, CLICK HERE.

The cast of George Washington Slept Here takes a well-deserved bow.  But, what happened to their house?

© 2010 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Find out who was picked to represent the Scots, as Portland’s internationally-known festival announced the first member of their 2010 Royal Court …

It’s an amazing sight – 1,500 underclassmen (the other half of the student body is on the other side of the gym) – all waiting to welcome the 2010 Portland Rose Festival David Douglas High School Princess.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
The “Scots” of David Douglas High came out if full force to show their support for the 2010 Portland Rose Festival Princess Selection assembly on March 1. Every inch of the bleachers in the gymnasium was filled, as 3,000 students and teachers were seated for the 2:15 p.m. event.

Before the formal program started, Portland Rose Festival board member and director Amy Johnson told us how this year’s selection process had changed from past years.

“We narrowed the field of candidates at each school from six down to five,” Johnson said. “And this year, instead of holding the judging deliberations at the school, it was done at a central time and location. Of course, the results remained secret.”

Award-winning David Douglas High Cheerleaders entertain the crowd at the event.

Pacific Power Mentor, Michelle Follette, gives a memento to each Princess candidate.

The students at the participating schools were offered the option whether or not to hold a school-wide vote. “The result of this vote was counted in the final selection,” Johnson noted, saying that DDHS students did participate in the process.”

One of the candidates, Natalia Mosailova, answers the question put to her by the event’s Master of Ceremonies.

The candidates speak
The candidates were escorted through the length of the gym before they alighted on a 6-foot-high, decorated stage.

Before the school’s 2010 Portland Rose Festival Princess was announced, each candidate spoke briefly. Each answered a question put to them, even though all knew the school’s Princess had already been selected. They each thanked member of the student body.

Waiting to learn who would represent David Douglas High School during the 2010 Portland Rose Festival events are seniors Mackenzie Busby, Chelsea Kopacz, Natalia Mosailova, Kaitlyn Swyers and Selena Zou.

Introducing Princess Natalia Mosailova
A deafening cheer went up when Natalia Mosailova was announced as the school’s representative to this year’s Portland Rose Festival.

After receiving her tiara and bouquet of roses, Mosailova told the cheering audience, “Four years and six months ago, my family moved to the United States. I came to his school. I went to my first Rose Festival, saw the Princesses, and said, ‘Oh, my gosh! They all speak English!’”

This statement drew a big laugh from the audience as she continued, “I’m grateful to everyone in the Portland Rose Festival. I’m grateful to be in the United States of America. And, I thank all of you so much.”

Natalia Mosailova learns that she’ll be David Douglas High’s representative to this year’s Portland Rose Festival.

Photographers snapped photos of the Princess and her court. Asked what it meant to her to be selected, Mosailova, told us, “I’m very honored to be the representative from David Douglas High School. I’ll do my best to represent them in the best way. It’s been wonderful to become part of this great community here. And now, I’m so honored that I’ll actually be playing a role in it – representing our school, and this wonderful community. I find this to be thrilling.”

Born in Chisinau, Moldova, this 18-year-old DDHS Senior said she plans to pursue the University of Washington pre-medical program, and go on to be an Obstetrician and Gynecologist.

At DDHS, Mosailova has participated in the PRIDE Team, National Honors Society, and has won the school’s Award of Excellence (4.0 cumulative GPA at end of junior year).

Princess Natalia accepts a bouquet of roses.

Mosailova’s hobbies and special interests include Ballroom, hip-hop, and salsa dancing; is active in the Russian community, translating for Russian/Romanian/Ukranian residents, and works part time as office specialist at the OHSU Surgery Department.

During the interview process, Mosailova was asked, “What have you discovered about yourself during high school?”

She responded, “I’ve discovered myself as an excellent public orator, and defender of my personal views. I have an outgoing and giving personality. I’ve always been the person to whom friends and acquaintances would come for help or advice.”

It’s not too early to consider attending the 2010 Portland Rose Festival Queen Selection Ceremony, held just before the Grand Floral Parade. For more information about the Portland Rose Festival, visit their official website: CLICK HERE.

-8 Surrounded by her court is David Douglas High School’s Portland Rose Festival Princess Natalia.

© 2010 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Just why the building lit up in a blaze seldom seen in Portland – while classes were in session – still remains a mystery at this venerated Portland school. But, see the steps they’re taking to preserve the undamaged parts of it …

On the morning of November 10, 2009, before the devastating fire broke out, kids were in class, learning to tell time, read, and write in this classroom at Marysville K-8 School.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
After interviewing at least 150 witnesses, and digging through a mountain of charred rubble looking for cause of the fire that shuttered Marysville K-8 School on November 10th, Portland Fire Bureau investigators remain mum about what started the disastrous fire while classes were in session.

> See our story about the Marysville School fire: CLICK HERE.

Over the last three months, winter weather hasn’t been kind to the exposed eastern end of the school.

Whether the school will be rebuilt or simply restored, the school will be reopened at the same location, Portland Public School officials say.

Shane Endicott, of Portland’s DeConstruction Services, says these classic wooden doors have only increased in value over the years.

And, when Marysville reopens, on its first school day – no schedule has yet been set – the building’s interior will have a look reminiscent of the original 1921 building.

“We have meticulously been taking out doors, molding, window frames, built ins, and other things, that were all installed in 1921,” explained Shane Endicott, the Executive Director and co-founder of Portland’s ReBuilding Center and DeConstruction Services.

Hallway floors covered with 1950s-era tile may have protected the pine flooring underneath.

Standing in the school’s gym, next to a stack of classroom doors still hung in their frames, Endicott pointed out the clear, vertical grain in the old-growth fir from which they were milled. “You couldn’t replace these for $2,000 today.”

Walking out into a part of the structure with only open sky above – its ceiling and roof burned away by the fire – Endicott tapped on undamaged wall studs. “We’ll salvage as much as this wood as we can,” he said.

“We are de-nailing it without damaging the wood,” Endicott pointed out. “Then, we’re wrapping the wood up and protecting it. In each classroom and hallway, we’re numbering and tagging each piece – they’ll all have a key number, and be indexed. This will help contractors figure out how they will reincorporate it when they rebuild it.”

All wall studs not charred or damaged in the fire will be removed, de-nailed, and stored for incorporation into the restored or rebuilt Marysville School.

His company has gained a lot of experience in deconstructing; Endicott said they’ve been in business since 1998. He reminded us that it was their company which deconstructed the old, rickety Westmoreland house bought by Shannon Quimby to replace with a new one – with almost everything from the old house recovered and incorporated in her new “REXProject (Reuse Everything eXperiment)” home. (CLICK HERE to read about it.)

“Portland Public Schools is being very thoughtful about this process, respecting the building’s history. This school means a lot to the community.”

Part demolition supervisor, part building archaeologist, Endicott told how he was personally affected by this project. “When I walked through doing my first assessment – and as I am here today – I got the feeling of how historically important this building is. I realize I realize that these doors were hung, those nails where hammered, that moulding was installed – in 1921. Every kid that’s gone to school here since 1921 has passed through, or walked by these doors.”

The stack of wall and window molding removed by DeConstruction Services, and here pointed out by Endicott, is growing, as the School District-ordered preservation project continues.

The trucks and loading equipment on-site, he pointed out, were there only to haul away the wood and building materials too burned or damaged to be reused.

“As a citizen of Portland – not just a contractor here – I can’t help but give the school and District’s commitment to sustainability a big ‘thumbs up’ – we’re reclaiming a bit of Southeast Portland’s history.”

© 2010 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Isn’t it time for a good laugh? See why you should plan to see “George Washington Slept Here”, premiering on March 5 at the Horner Performing Arts Center …

Trying to cope with a multitude of problems posed by their newly acquired run-down mansion – from its leaky roof, to falling-down walls – are Marissa Hanson, playing Rena Leslie; Carson Cook as the unlucky new homeowner, Newton Fuller; Matt Richardson as Steve Eldridge; Cary Miga as Clayton Evans; Rachael Zeller as Madge Fuller; and Quinci Daoust as woman-of-the-house Annabelle Fuller. All are shown rehearsing for the opening of the charmingly funny play, “George Washington Slept Here”.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
The David Douglas High School Theater Department is about to take the wraps – perhaps we should say construction tarps – off their new winter comedy, “George Washington Slept Here”.

The play, that premieres on March 5th and runs two weekends, is best described as a slapstick “house from Hell” comedy.

Few realize “George Washington Slept Here” was originally written as a stage play in 1940 by Moss Hart and George S. Kaufman. But it became widely known, thanks to a 1942 motion picture adaptation staring Jack Benny, Ann Sheridan, and Charles Coburn.

About the story …
Tired of city life, Newton Fuller – unbeknownst to his wife – buys a decrepit house in the country, in which George Washington supposedly slept. It’s truly a “money pit”.

Trying to rebuild the wreck of a house, the Fullers are beset with one problem after another; and the antics of their kooky clan only makes matters worse. To top things off, it turns out, they find out it wasn’t actually Washington who had rested in the abode – instead, it was a much less savory character in American history.

• Will they be able to turn the run-down shack into a livable home?
• How will problems with their daughter and obnoxious nephew resolve?
• Can they find a way to tolerate Uncle Stanley, the world’s most demanding houseguest – and millionaire?

Find out, as you watch the interaction of the colorful characters in ever-more-complex situations in this comic play.

Backstage, director and theater instructor Judy LeCoq coaches actor Josh McKinley, who plays the rich-but-obnoxious Uncle Stanley J. Menninger.

Says it’s a technically demanding play
Judy LeCoq, a David Douglas High theater instructor, and the director of this play, said she chose “George Washington Slept Here” because she loves Moss Hart and George S. Kaufman’s humorous situations and clever dialog.

“There’s a lot of satire and wit in their comedies,” LeCoq said, between rehearsals. “This is a play where people can come in, sit back, and laugh. Just like back when it was originally written, people today need a break from the cares and worries of the day.”

Another reason for choosing this particular show, LeCoq added, was the many technical requirements of staging it.

“Our Technical Director, Mark Taylor, and his crew, bring this show to life,” LeCoq told us. “The house [set] is in shambles when the curtain rises. Then, it’s refurbished during scene changes. When it rains, the ceilings actually leak. And, you won’t believe what happens to the set by the show’s end!”

This play is suitable for all ages. While there’s some broad slapstick humor, the show is definitely family rated.

Show opens March 5
“George Washington Slept Here” premieres on March 5, and also runs on March 6; it also plays the evenings of March 11, 12 and 13. Curtain time is 7:30 p.m. for all performances.

Tickets are $7 for adults; $5 for students and seniors. The Box Office at the theater is open on Monday, Wednesday, and Fridays from 3:00 until 5:30 p.m. on school days, and also one hour before the show. Call the box office at (503) 261-8270 with questions.

The Theater and Box Office are located in the David Douglas High School Horner Performing Arts Center, 1400 SE 130th Avenue (between SE Stark Street and SE Division Street) To visit their website, CLICK HERE.

© 2010 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

If you missed this traditional gathering, see some of the pageantry and activities that made up the Chinese New Year celebration sponsored by Portland Community College SE Center …

Lion Dancers from Northwest Learning Academy welcome guests to the Asian New Year Celebration.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
The longest and most important festivity in the Chinese Lunar Calendar is Chinese New Year – an event also celebrated by other peoples influenced by Chinese Han culture, most notably Koreans, Japanese, and Vietnamese.

The centuries-old tradition – this time welcoming the “Year of the Tiger” – was celebrated by hundreds, at the Legin Restaurant Banquet Hall, just west of the Portland Community College SE Center at SE 82nd Avenue of Roses and SE Division Street.

Portland Community College Associated Students President, Anson Lilienthal, and PCCAS Student Programs Director – and organizer of the festival – Lien Le, say this is a fun event that also helps draw diverse people together.

Student Lien Le, Director of the school’s Associated Student Programs at PCC, took time from studying for her Associate degree in radiology to organize this year’s celebration.

“I chose PCC Southeast Center because this campus really reaches out to the community,” Le said. “We help put together the program, recruit the performers, and make sure everyone has a good time at our celebration.”

Serving as co-emcee for the event, Anson Lilienthal, President of AS-PCC, took time from his criminal justice studies. “Best thing about the celebration is the food! Beside that, it’s about the fun of bringing everyone together. We have a lot of people from a lot of different backgrounds and hope to have a good time.”

Onstage, the Lion Dancers perform their routine.

The Lion Dance becomes interactive, as the colorful beasts move into the audience.

The event, held on February 15 – the second day of the Chinese New Year – presented many kinds of entertaining and educational activities.

A Chinese calligrapher drew visitors’ names; there were martial arts demonstrations, face painting, chopsticks-using lessons, and paper lantern-cutting – and other games and activities.

Vivian Nguyen and Carina Lim help kids play the Chinese zodiac game.

Getting ready for their performance, Hmong Association performer Kanee Her is groomed by Pala Her before they present their traditional dance.

Jazmyn Billings-McBee smiles after receiving her package of “lucky money” – a Chinese New Year Tradition – from Portland Community College SE Center President Nan Poppe.

Kindergartners from the Chinese Mandarin Immersion program at Woodstock Elementary School perform a dance number at the event.

Demonstrating grace beyond their years, these Chinese Mandarin Immersion program first-graders from Woodstock Elementary School perform a ballet-like dance at the SE Portland Chinese New Year celebration.

Although this year’s event attracted only about half the number of participants who attended last year, smiles and happy New Year wishes abounded.

© 2010 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

You’ll be amazed to discover out how many soup bowls the school’s art students hand-made for this event – raising money to support a local Habitat for Humanity project. And, find out why it’s not too late to help support this worthy project  …

Parkrose High School senior Orest Zavedyuk shows off two of the 90 bowls he created on a potter’s wheel for the school’s first “Souper Bowl” event. He’s joined by his instructor, and the organizer of the event, Mark Warner.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
On Saturday, February 6 – the day before the big football game – students at Parkrose High School held their own “Souper Bowl”. They were selling gourmet soup – in soup bowls fashioned by students in the school’s art department.

In addition to delicious soups and hot breadsticks provided by the Olive Garden Restaurant, guests who each paid a minimum of $15 donation, got to take their new soup bowls home. While there, participants were also treated to entertainment by the Parkrose Jazz Band and choirs, demonstrations on the ceramics potting wheel, and an exhibit of artwork from Ms. Cordova’s art classes.

Rex Putnam High School seniors Kelly Antolic, Kara Webster and Marshal Ellison – all volunteers with the Habitat for Humanity Youth United group, help out by serving soup in the Parkrose High School cafeteria.

Inspired by his mentor
The man behind this tasty fundraiser was Mark Warner, a Parkrose High art instructor who teaches ceramics, sculpture, and AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) classes.

“My mentoring teacher in Madison, Wisconsin – he passed away a couple of years ago – held a similar event at his school,” Warner told us. “There, the ‘Souper Bowl’ grew to the point where they’d raise upwards of $40,000 in one day. To keep his memory alive, I wanted to do something meaningful with my kids.”

Pottery-making is a form of art that, by its nature, allows the artist to create objects with purpose and meaning, Warner observed. “By connecting this work with fundraising, it’s good for our students and good for the community.”

Steven and Joy Voorhees (he’s the Market Master of the Parkrose Farmer’s Market) show off the bowls they purchased in support of the event.

And, Habitat for Humanity will benefit from the fundraiser, Warner pointed out. “It was my mentor’s choice back in Wisconsin,” Warner said. “I didn’t see why we should change it.”

In total, about 160 students were involved in the project, Warner said, making about 300 soup bowls of all sizes, shapes, and colors. “It kept the wheels and kilns pretty busy, especially in the last couple of weeks.”

Choir, vocal and music keyboard instructor, Lesley Bossert, provides beautiful piano music to which guests could sip and sup on their soup dinner.

Top student potter goes into overtime
Of all the students participating in the bowl-making process, Warner announced Parkrose High senior Orest Zavedyuk as the champion potter.

“I made about 90 bowls, Zavedyuk said, with a modest smile. “Mr. Warner decided to have a competition to see who could make the most bowls during a class. I think I beat him by 15 bowls!”

While he might not make pottery-making a career, Zavedyuk said it’s a great hobby. “I’ve taken classes in it since I was a freshman. I enjoy doing it a lot; it’s relaxing to me. I’m thinking about buying my own wheel and creating works that I’ll bring to school for firing and glazing.”

Karen Montez, John Shackleford, and Parkrose High senior Stephanie Montiez enjoy Olive Garden soup served in their new bowls.

Students to build a Habitat home
“We are so thankful that students here at Parkrose High School decided to do the ‘Souper Bowl’ event,” said Marianne McClure, Faith Relations and Youth Coordinator for Habitat for Humanity Metro East.

“These funds will help support our Habitat for Humanity Metro East ‘Youth United’ specialty build,” McClure explained. “In the Youth United program, students from age 5 to 25 raise $60,000 and build a home.”

While students must be at least 16 years of age to swing a hammer, the program encourages the younger kids to help out with advocacy, education, and fund raising, McClure noted. “Parkrose students work with others, including those of college age, to plan and work on homes. That’s why you see Rex Putnam High students here today, helping out.”

To learn more about Habitat for Humanity’s Youth United program, CLICK HERE to visit their website.

You can still help out: Purchase one or more of these student-made bowls.

Surplus bowls for sale
At the event, Warner said they’d raised about $1,000 in pre-sales. “My goal for this year was to raise $2,000. But it’s the first time, and we’re hoping to grow this event over the coming years.”

By the way, you can still help support this worthy project by purchasing food-grade, hand-crafted soup bowls (now without soup, of course!). For best selection, contact him promptly by sending him an e-mail at: mark_warner@parkrose.k12.or.us.

© 2010 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

See why this new exhibit, ‘Space: A Journey to Our Future’, is attracting both young and old. Take a look at our exclusive photos – it’s pretty neat …

Lynda Gordon, and her daughters Lucy and Paige, marvel at the real moon rocks on display at the exhibit in this realistic diorama – featuring an “earthrise” over the lunar surface.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Visitors to the new featured exhibit at the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) say it’s out of this world.

When “Space: A Journey to Our Future” opened on January 30, space exploration enthusiasts got the first opportunity to touch a piece of the planet Mars, see a real Moon rock up close, take a spin on a space bike, and tour a full-scale future lunar habitat.

“This is one of the largest touring exhibitions ever produced on space exploration,” said OMSI spokesman Lee Dawson. “It examines the history of our space program, shows off current projects in space exploration such as satellites, space telescopes, and living in space.

“It also provides a glimpse of future human space travel through highly advanced interactive displays.”

OMSI Executive Director, Nancy Stueber, welcomes guests to the museum’s new featured exhibit on its opening night.

Adan Gillespie and Rick Edgecombe take a spin on a space station exercise bike – complete with artificial gravity.

Of interest to both kids and adults
OMSI’s feature-hall lead educator, Kristi Falkowski, agreed with Dawson that the most popular part of the exhibit is the “space bike ride”.

“It simulates about two G’s by spinning,” Falkowski said. “And it demonstrates how astronauts can meet their need to exercise in space, to keep up their bone and muscle mass in a weightless environment.”

Dawson said grownups will most likely be attracted to the space exploration relics. “There are a wide range of artifacts on display from the past and present space program, including space suits, a lunar rover tire, a camera from the Apollo program, early fuel cells, and space shuttle tiles.”

Hugh and Alexander Mackworth inspect the full-size replica of the Mars Rover.

Other exhibits and activities include:

• Today’s Space Program – This interactive area examines the International Space Station, deep space probes, next-generation telescopes, living in space and space tourism, and NASA studies in “robonauts”.
• Constellation Program – Visitors will get an up-close look at “Orion”, the new spacecraft that will take human explorers back to the Moon, and the Aries rocket which will propel the new spacecraft.
• Lunar Base Camp – Would-be explorers can literally step into the future and interact aboard a re-created future base camp on the lunar surface.
• Create a Mission to Mars – Through hands-on interactive displays and modules, visitors can design their own trip to Mars, from the design of the spacecraft to living quarters to supplies needed, and will ultimately find out how successful their trip would likely be.
• 360-degree “Future Theatre” – In an immersive media experience, visitors will look far into the future of exploration and deep into space, pondering mysteries to be revealed and questions to be answered.

Elizabeth Stafford holds Ethan, as they explore a Lunar Habitat’s kitchen area.

The exhibit runs through May 31, reminded Dawson. “This is a great opportunity for people to learn a little bit about where our space program came from, what took place, and get an idea about how we’ll be exploring space in the future.”

The exhibit is offered without additional charge – after standard OMSI admission or membership.

The exhibit comes to OMSI through the support of local presenting sponsor Lufthansa Airlines, and local supporting sponsors Chevron and Mentor Graphics; it was produced by Evergreen Exhibitions, and was made possible by national partner General Motors.

OMSI is located at 1945 SE Water Avenue. For general information, call (503) 797-4000 or visit their website: CLICK HERE.

> Photo from our front page: Ready for takeoff in OMSI’s Gemini Space Capsule is Valen Williams, visiting from the Lents Neighborhood.

© 2010 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Find out why retired workers of Qwest – formerly Pacific Northwest Bell – gave books to every student at Harrison Park School …

Volunteers belonging to the organization called Qwest Telecom Pioneers, come to Harrison Park School bringing bags filled with brand new books for the students.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
As part of their “Readers for Life” initiative, the Oregon chapter of Qwest Telecom Pioneers – a 99-year-old volunteer organization that included Alexander Graham Bell as a founder – marched in to Harrison Park School (formerly known as Binnsmead) on SE 87th Avenue, carrying colorful canvas bags, on the morning of January 15.

“We asked the Harrison Park teachers of second, third, and fourth grade classes to help, when we ordered these books,” Rita Adams-Daggett told us as they assembled in the school’s auditorium.

Lynda King, President of Oregon Qwest Telecom Pioneers; Cindy Barnes, Qwest’s national Telecom Pioneers manager; and local Pioneer volunteer Rita Adams-Daggett converse, as the students come into the auditorium, eyeing the bags of books that await them.

The books brought by the Pioneers weren’t tattered used tomes. “These are brand new books – 628 of them – appropriate in both subject matter and reading level for these students,” Adams-Daggett explained. “Each student will receive a book today; the remaining books will be used as rewards for students participating in the school’s reading programs.”

Adams-Daggett said that the Telecom Pioneers – there are about 350 in the area – give away books because they feel education is important. “Education solves a lot of problems. When you have an education, you don’t get into trouble and can advance in this world. Many of these kids are at risk because they come from families of a lower economic status. We want them to develop the habit of reading and learning, so they can get ahead.”

Qwest’s national Telecom Pioneers manager, Cindy Barnes, tells Harrison Park School students they’ll also receive a “Love to Read” bookmark, to remind them of this day.

Joining the local chapter members was Cindy Barnes, Qwest’s national manager for their Telecom Pioneer program. “This year alone, we will give out over 50,000 books under our ‘Readers for Life’ program, in our 14 Qwest-served states.”

Qwest started the “Readers for Life” program, Barnes told us, “Because we want to support education, and give the students the chance to be successful adults. Reading is a key component to a child’s education, a necessity to be successful in today’s society.”

“Just thrilled!” was how Debra Lande, Assistant Principal of Harrison Park reacted to the gift. “This is an amazing and wonderful gift that will help increase literacy for our students.”

The President of Oregon Qwest Telecom Pioneers, Lynda King, gives a book to second-grader Alycia Solis-Hendrix, as her teacher, Emily Toll looks on.

One of the many students receiving books at the special assembly was second-grader Alycia Solis-Hendrix. She was all smiles as she accepted her book. “I’m really excited about this,” she said with a big smile.

To learn more about the Qwest Telecom Pioneers “Readers for Life” program, visit their website: CLICK HERE to view it.

© 2010 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Find out why Michael Allen Harrison performs a concert every year at Parkrose High School – and how you can help him give music education in schools a real boost …

Members of Parkrose High School choirs gather in their rehearsal room for what will be their last performance of the Holiday season – and their first show of the New Year.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Even though it’s during his busy Holiday season, internationally-known recording artist Michael Allen Harrison has made time to return to his alma mater, Parkrose High School, for a special concert aptly entitled “Home Again”.

In 2008, a winter blizzard postponed that December concert; and, in late 2009, the threat of an impending ice storm put off his Holiday show until January 2, 2010. Even with the month-long delay, this year’s program drew a good-sized audience of supporters to the concert that is the school’s major fundraiser for the year.

The Choral director at Parkrose High School, Lesley Bossert, says Harrison’s concert helps the school’s program in many ways.

“It’s really great for our choirs that Michael is willing to give us the benefit of his time and talent,” Parkrose High’s choir instructor, Lesley Bossert, told us. “He’s a good example to our students of the positive result that comes from hard work and perseverance. And, his concert brings many people to our campus who might not otherwise visit us.”

The program began with two songs by the combined youth choir from Prescott School and Russell Academy.

The Parkrose High School Treble Choir performed, accompanied by Jodyne Holloway.

Both the Parkrose Debonaires (seen here) and the A Cappella Choir also performed at the concert.

School choirs start concert
Again this year, the program started with choral presentations by elementary school kids, and the Parkrose High School choirs. Under the direction Bossert, the high school choirs performed their songs with virtuosity.

Judging by the audience’s response to the musical offerings, no one was put off by the Holiday-themed repertoire even though it was early January.

Noticing new choir risers in the acoustical concert shell, we learned that their purchase was made possible by a substantial donation to Parkrose-base YoCream Frozen Yogurt.

Producer, composer, arranger, and a concert pianist who records under his own MAH Records label, Michael Allen Harrison began his program by sharing memories about attending Parkrose High School.

Harrison learns more than music
“Coming back to Parkrose is part of my tradition,” Harrison told us before the program. “It’s about being part of the fabric of this community. This is where I grew up, you know. Being here helps me stay connected with memories I had growing up.”

Harrison – a proud member of the class of 1976 – credited his high school music teachers with much of his later success. “To me, and the other students, they were more than teachers. They were mentors – icons in my life. They made me do things that I would have otherwise never imagined doing. They didn’t coddle us; they made us work.”

Harrison plays one of his compositions for the receptive audience.

Pressing students to go beyond their “comfort zone” may be out of fashion these days, Harrison noted, “But there’s a lot of great learning [that comes from] being pressed to do more than what feels comfortable at the time.”

Harrison had high praise for current Parkrose High instructors, too. “It’s wonderful to see an educators like Lesley Bossert continue this tradition. It’s inspiring to see what Ms. Zena and Terry Franceschi do in the theater department – getting kids involved. They ‘set the bar high’ enough to encourage kids to achieve.  There’s so much value in that.”

Talking to his audience, Harrison mentions that this was his seventh “Home Again” concert, and added how pleased he was to return to his school.

As part of his introductory remarks, he reminded those present that this year’s “Ten Grands” program – concert artists performing music on 10 grand pianos – would again take place at the Arlene Schnitzer Auditorium, this year on April 2nd and 3rd, as a benefit for the Snowman Foundation. “Our goal is to help bring music education back to schools in the Pacific Northwest.” (Learn more about this concert and the organization: CLICK HERE).

© 2010 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News