The program was both delightful and moving – for several reasons.
Read this, and see why …

Members of the Parkrose High School Thespian Troupe 1783 perform “Reality Check I”.

Story and (some) photos by David F. Ashton
As the lights dimmed, the background music faded, and the curtain at the Parkrose High School Theater rose, the applause was for the student actors of Parkrose High School Thespian Troupe 1783 themselves, not for the roles they were about to play.

To start off the evening, the cast of “Reality Check I” – a show that uses humorous skits to demonstrate good behavior, performed at Parkrose’s Sacramento, Shaver, and Russell Elementary schools this spring – presented their show. Although written with young kids in mind, the humor held up for the largely adult audience.

Derek Herman entertains with a moving solo performance. Patrick Smith Photography

Incoming troupe president Tom Crawford performs his solo “reading” – it wasn’t read; it was well-acted. Patrick Smith Photography

This hilarious musical theatre piece from “Spamalot” was deftly performed by Jacquelle Davis & Steven Ennis. Patrick Smith Photography

Induction and awards ceremony
Members of the troupe were invited onto the stage. When seated, they donned the ceremonial cap.

Intermingled with the telling of the thespian tradition, student actors performed moving readings, a duo guitar piece by Jason McGhee & Jacob Pratt, and a never-to-be forgotten (it was that good) adagio dance number.

Yes, your reporter was privileged to wear the ceremonial cap – light the candle – take the pledge, and become an honorary member of the troupe. Patrick Smith Photography

In addition to the official induction ceremony, presentation of awards, honor stoles, and graduating senior awards, both Parkrose High School band teacher Michael Tolon and David Ashton, editor of East Portland News, were made honorary members of Thespian Troop number 1783.

Introducing the incoming officers: (back row) Tom Crawford, President, Junior; Brian Fitzgerald, Vice President, Junior; Heather Grassel, Historian, Sophomore; (lower level) Mackenzie Billick-Smith, Secretary, Sophomore; Kiely Simmons, Oregon State Board Member, Junior; Ciera Willis, Clerk, Junior; Derek Herman, Historian, Junior. Of course, when school starts this fall, they’ll be in the next grade!

After the ceremony, the actors, their family and friends retired for a reception fit for a Hollywood actor. Patrick Smith Photography

My special thanks to Patrick Smith for the photos – we were a bit occupied during the ceremony!

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

How about “they sing for stands”? Take a look, and you’ll see why choir members are working hard to get new performance equipment …

The Parkrose High “A-Choir” performs at a special fund-raising concert at Parkrose United Methodist Church.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
After 35 years of use, the risers – the stands used by the choir – at Parkrose High School were carted out to the dump just a few weeks ago.

“After taking a long look at our old risers, and choral shell,” said choir and voice instructor Lesley Ann Bossert, “We all agreed they had to go. It was getting to the point where safety might be an issue.”

With that in mind, the choir has taken on a new project: Replacing this much-needed equipment. The risers allow singers to stand in rows, each higher than the last. The choral shell helps the singers’ voices project.

Standing on the far left, Kiet Tran leads a men’s ensemble at the Parkrose fundraising concert.

May concert features jazz
Their concert on May 18 took place at Parkrose United Methodist Church, and featured the big band sounds of Jazz Express.

This program also featured the Parkrose High School “A-Choir”. And, Parkrose High student Kiet Tran’s senior project – a men’s ensemble – also performed.

June Awards Concert

“A-Choir” member Jason McGhee gets a wardrobe adjustment by choir director Lesley Bossert.

One of the highlights of the past year, that choir director Lesley Bossert shared with the audience, was the Debonairs’ experience of participating in their first jazz festival – along with a bass and percussion player.

Bossert talked about the high scores the choirs made in competition, and complemented the student musicians who qualified at the State competitions.

We can’t let you hear their wonderful music – but we can share photos of these talented students with you!

The Treble Choir was up first. They sang “Fly Me to the Moon”, “Ain’t That News”, “Danny Boy” and finished up with an energetic presentation of “Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy”. By the way, they’re standing on borrowed risers!

Under the direction of Parkrose High’s choir director, Lesley Bossert, many outer East Portland students have gained solid musical skills.

The Debonaires perform – with their combo – the songs “Turnaround”, “Lullaby on the Hudson” and “Down St. Thomas Way”.

The Concert Choir showed a wide range of musical skills as they performed “Song of the Sea”, “A Canon of Praise” and a toe-tapping medley: “Disney Dazzle”.

The renowned “A-Choir” performs “Arroz Con Leche”, Bogorodiste Devo”, and “Thoroughly Modern Millie”.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Traditional high school settings don’t meet the needs of all students. See how this unique school gives young people skills – and pays them while they go to school …

Not your ordinary teachers, Carly Boynton (on the mini-track backhoe) and Bill Kowalczyk say their classrooms are at building sites like this one, on SE Schiller Street.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
For many young people in outer East Portland, college is out of the question; for some, even getting a high school diploma seems like nearly unreachable goal. Without marketable skills, the future for these youth seems bleak.

“Our school, Portland YouthBuilders (PYB), is both a high school and a pre-apprenticeship program. All of our students are kids who dropped out of high school,” explained PYB’s construction manager, Bill Kowalczyk, as we visited him at his “classroom” – a house construction site in Lents.

“This program is an opportunity for them to change their lives by taking on the challenge of being successful academically – as well as preparing for the working world – when they complete our program,” Kowalczyk said.

Two-year school & work program
Portland YouthBuilders offers young people, ages 17 to 24, a two-year program. The first year is primarily in the classroom; then they work on a jobsite for 12 months. After that, the PYB staff provides follow-up mentoring, counseling and guidance services, guiding the students to whatever secondary education direction they choose.

“This program isn’t for a fixed period of time where they graduate from high school, and things are over and done,” Kowalczyk told us. “We look at training as a process. We develop the tools to help students develop incrementally, and move toward success.”

Molly Yong, Julia Vosmik, and Ryan Marr work to prepare the area inside the structure’s foundation, where the slab will be poured.

Learn and earn
Another unusual feature of the PYB program is that the students don’t pay for their specialized training; they actually get paid to participate.

“They don’t get paid wages,” Kowalczyk clarified, “they get paid a stipend to help them get through. A lot of our students already have children; some of them several children. Having a stipend means, for a lot of our students, the difference of being able to participate in this program or not. They’re really working hard to develop strategies to be successful in life.”

As many as 40 percent of these students will go directly into construction, the instructor said. Others will get a GED and go on to some form of secondary education. “We use a construction format as a means of teaching job-readiness skills, and teaching about the industries,” Kowalczyk went on.

Partner with ROSE and Land Trust
At the site of their current project on SE Schiller Street and SE 104th Avenue, the students poured the concrete footings for what will eventually be a two-story, four-bedroom home. Then, working with a professional concrete finisher, they poured the foundation and started framing the home.

PYB construction trainer Carly Boynton hopped down from the backhoe she was operating, and told us that she and the students have been working on this jobsite for about three months. “This project is a great opportunity for our students to work on an Energy Star certified house from foundation to finish.”

The home is being built for ROSE Community Development Corporation, and will be sold to a low-income buyer through the Portland Community Land Trust. The new house will be ready for a family to move into later this year, Boynton added.

Since we first reported this story, we revisited the site – the house is really taking shape!

Calls it a ‘life changing experience’
“For me, PYB is a life-changing experience,” said student Julia Vosmik. “It’s giving me a career and helping me change direction to where I want to go in life. It’s like the family you’ve never had.”

In addition to construction, PYB also offers a computer maintenance educational track.

If you know of a student who might qualify for the program and could be interested in checking out the program, contact Portland YouthBuilders in person at 4816 SE 92nd Avenue (a block south of SE Holgate Boulevard), or call (503) 771-2309. To visit their web site, CLICK HERE.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Take a look, and discover the creativity and artistry demonstrated by these talented kids …

Friends, family members, folks from the community – and members of the DDS School Board all came by to take a look at this outstanding art show.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
The quality of artistic work on display in the breezeway at the David Douglas School District office was stunning, as we sauntered among the displays on May 15.

“Welcome to our annual student art show,” greeted Gayla Buyukas, one of seven art teachers at David Douglas High School.

“The art on display is created from all of our students, from ninth grade to seniors,” Buyukas explained. “The forms of art range from painting and drawing to ceramics, jewelry and metals, calligraphy, crafts, glasswork.

David Douglas High art teacher Gayla Buyukas shows us a decorated brass box, created by student Celeste Hunter as part of the “Heroes Project”.

Heroes Project highlighted
Buyukas took us over to a locked glass case in which very small, delicate pieces – such as jewelry and memory boxes – were ensconced. “This case contains some of the works of art students created for what we call the ‘Heroes Project’.”

Students were asked to identify people – either folks they know, or personalities in popular culture – who are important to them, she said. “It could also be a philosophical concept in which they believe. Then, they design and create symbolic piece that represents that person or idea.”

As an example, Buyukas pointed out a small, elegant brass box. “This work was done by a junior, and near-4.0 student – Celeste Hunter. It represents her family; each side depicts one of her relatives who symbolize the story of her African-American tradition.”

Students tell about their works
Many of the works of art we saw in the gallery looked as if they were painted by professional artists. We enjoyed talking to several of the student artists about their projects.

Freshman Ricky Adams, with his portrait of actor McCauley Calkins.

A freshman, Ricky Adams, presented a pencil drawing of child actor McCauley Calkins. The photorealistic drawing clearly captured the image of the youthful actor starring in the “Home Alone” series of motion pictures. “It’s fun to learn about art,” Adams said. “I’m glad to have my drawing in the show.”

Lupe Diaz, 9th Grade, shows off her treasure boxes.

Another ninth grader, Lupe Diaz, showed us her “treasure boxes”, made for an art class. “I picked up colors that I liked and put them all together, and made patterns,” she commented.

This portrait of Snoop Dogg was drawn – in pencil – by junior Juan Diaz.

Juan Diaz, a DDHS junior, presented his drawing of rap artist Snoop Dogg. “It’s a drawing in pencil. The challenging thing is to get the dark and light shading contrast just right when you’re doing a pencil illustration.” Diaz added that he planned to pursue a career in art.

Bruce Ross, a senior, says he enjoys creating art in different media.

“The best thing about the show is that it means I’m about to graduate,” quipped a senior, Bruce Ross. “I’m known for my calligraphy; I won a blue ribbon for a work at last year’s Oregon State Fair. With calligraphy, you can express a concept by using both words and artistic style.”

But the work Ross chose to show us was a ceramic dish. “With ceramics, you can create a lot of texture.” The talented young man said he planned to attend the Art Institute of Portland, and go into art direction and graphic design as a career.

The artists who designed and created theses fused glass artworks weren’t around, but they did produce some beautiful pieces.

Showcasing school’s talent
The show was substantial; the works of nearly 800 students are represented in it.

“It’s one of the rare times when students can actually showcase their pieces before the school and their family and members of the community,” commented Buyukas. “In addition to students, parents, and community members, our school district’s board members also get the opportunity to look at what our kids have done during the year.”

We were delighted to have had the opportunity to be among those enjoying these works of art, created by outer East Portland students.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News Service

It was more than the grilled burgers and hot dogs that brought out prospective students to this BBQ! See what students and their parents really hunger for …

Dr. Richard O’Connor, Jon Taylor, and Evan Pine, here are cooking up hot dogs and burgers at the Ace Academy BBQ.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
The air was filled with the scent of grilling hot dogs and hamburgers at the Willamette Carpenter’s Training Center in Northeast Portland not long ago, as the ACE Academy, opening in September, held an open house for future students and parents.

“This is the home of the Academy for Architecture Construction and Engineering – we call it the ‘ACE Academy’,” said Dr. Richard O’Connor, president of the newly-organized academy’s board of directors.

“ACE Academy is a charter school that is sponsored by four school districts: Parkrose, Centennial, Reynolds and Gresham/Barlow,” O’Connor said. “The Oregon Building Congress, and the construction and engineering and architectural industries, have worked together to create the school.”

When the school bell rings in September, O’Connor says they’re on track to open with 150 students. “We’re starting with students who are in their junior year of high school. They’ll continue on as seniors next year, when we’ll bring in a new group of juniors to the program.”

By the end of the second year, they expect to have as many as 400 students in the program, O’Connor told us.

Michel Taylor, educational director for the school, introduces the ACE Academy staff (seated to our left) to 150 parents and prospective students who attended the BBQ event in May.

Blends technical training with traditional high school
Michael Taylor, the educational coordinator at the school, explained to students and their parents that the ACE Academy isn’t just a glorified “shop” class.

“At the Academy, you’ll learn from experts in the industry on some days; but on alternate days, you’ll continue your high school experience – participating in educational and social activities,” Taylor said.

“For a project to be successful, it’s not only up to the architect designing it; it’s up to engineers who make sure it will be structurally sound. And, their designs can be realized only with the work of skilled carpenters, sheet metal workers, electricians, plumbers, and every kind of labor that make sure that the building is constructed properly.”

Creating pathways to construction trades
At the event, we asked Bob Strader, chief financial officer for Associated General Contractors, why their organization supports the new, start-up school.

“It’s critically important that we start creating pathways for young people to find a career in construction, plain and simple,” Strader stated.

AGC is a trade association representing commercial contractors throughout Oregon and Southwest Washington,” continued Strader. “Our #1 objective has been to identify our future workforce, and to create pathways for them into the industry. We have millions of baby boomers who are retiring; leaving a big void behind them. Those industries which see this turnover in the workforce coming – and which prepare for it – are the ones which will prosper in the future.”

Taylor says the area in which the group now sits will have classrooms and an atrium built overhead by the time the ACE Academy opens this fall.

Check it out today
If you are the parent of an interested student who will be a high school junior in September – or know of one, who lives in one of the participating school districts – now is the time to check out this program. Each district is allocated a limited quota of students – so check it out now.

You can find out more information at their web site by CLICKING HERE.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

See how this food festival helps unite the DDHS student body – and raise funds for student organizations – at the same time …

If you didn’t get out to this amusing annual event, take a look at our photo album, as we recap their community funfest …

Here comes the parade! For nearly a full hour, neighbors enjoyed a color procession of bands, walking groups, and community floats.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
The 13th annual Gateway Fun-O-Rama, put on by the Gateway Area Business Association (GABA), played out under summerlike skies on May 16 and 17.

It started with a golf tournament at the Glendoveer Golf Course, and continued the next day with a parade down NE Halsey Street, followed by the Community Fair at 111th Square.

Judges and announcers for this year’s parade are: (back row) Annette Mattson, David Douglas School Board, Dr. Karen Fischer Gray, Superintendent, Parkrose School District; (front row); Becka Doyle, David Douglas High, Stacy Chao, David Douglas High, Tammy Vu, Parkrose High and Jacob Nall, St. Therese School.

Fun-O-Rama Parade
For years, the Fun-O-Rama Parade always seemed to take place under clouds threatening rain.

But on May 17, the sky was clear and the sun was hot, as the parade formed on the expansive grounds of St. Therese Parish grounds at NE 132nd Avenue. The procession then  headed west along NE Halsey Street, and disbanded at NE 105th Avenue.

This year’s parade featured the lively sounds and precision footwork of five marching bands – the most ever, in the parade’s history. The bands and drill teams from Parkrose High School, Parkrose Middle School, Ron Russell Middle School, Centennial High School, and Floyd Light Middle School performed well, to the delight of the crowd all along the route.

The 2008 Portland Rose Festival Princesses, and other dignitaries, rode in convertibles, and greeted the crowds along the route.

Other parade entries included those from businesses, faith groups, and service organizations – including the Al Kader Shiners’ Calliope and motorcade. Also marching was the fun-but-rowdy Parkrose Posse – and the bystanders enjoyed the antics of the crazy Gateway Keystone Kops. Many participants threw candy to watching kids as they went by.

Seems like all kids like stickers – especially when it’s an honorary badge, given by a kindly Portland cop.

Community Fair follows parade
After the Fun-o-Rama Parade, the crowd along the parade route followed the sound of calliope to the Community Fair at 111th Square. Kicking off the fair was the Portland Police Bureau Honor Guard, as they raised a huge American flag at noon.

Then, visitors perused 40 booths set up for individuals, companies, nonprofit organizations, and civic groups – as the band, “Vine Time”, played and sang a wide variety of original and popular songs.

Once again this year, the Portland Police Bureau East Precinct Cadets were fundraising by serving hot, huge “Cadet Dog” wieners – as other Cadets fitted kids with low-cost bike helmets.

The Portland Rose Festival Princesses pitched their upcoming festival, and Ronald McDonald entertained the kids.

Alan Sanchez presented the Gateway Citizen of the Year memento to David Douglas School District superintendent, Barbara Rommel.

Citizen of the Year
The Gateway “Citizen of the Year” – Superintendent Barbara Rommel, of the David Douglas School District – was honored with a plaque.

After receiving the award, Rommel told us, “I feel honored to be chosen; this organization does so much to benefit the community.”

Our Fun-O-Rama Photo Album

The Al Kader Calliope and honor guard entertain with music and performance motorcycle drill team riding.

“Will you applaud if I do a cartwheel?” asked Jefferson Smith, a candidate for state legislature. He did – and the crowd went wild with applause.

Saturday night fun; and, law and order – Parkrose Posse style!

The Floyd Light Middle School Band and Drill Team was one of five great marching bands that played in the parade.

Those crazy Gateway Keystone Kops hammed it up along the parade route.

Raising the 25′ American flag were members of the Portland Police Bureau and Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office Honor Guard.

Michelle Frazier, a Portland Police Bureau Cadet, served hot dogs.

Lents neighborhood volunteer Judy Welch was greeted by Mayor-elect Sam Adams at the Community Fair.

Jessie Holwege looked on as her son, Hayden, got fitted with a bike helmet by Portland Police Bureau Cadet Jordan Houck.

Richard Bixby with the East Portland Neighborhood Organization gave out resource literature at their booth.

Vine Time Band from Parkrose United Methodist played a variety of original and positive music.

The blazing sun that drove temperatures to record levels also thinned the crowd – but many folks stayed the afternoon in the shade of exhibitor’s canopies.

Meet the members
If you’re interested in finding out more about GABA, they meet next on June 12 at JJ North’s Buffet, 10520 NE Halsey Street. Their web site: www.gabanet.com.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

The first performances of the school’s spring musical were met with enthusiasm. Take a look at this story and photo album and see why your family – even little kids – will enjoy this show …

Bagheera a wise black panther (Jacob Pratt) and the sleepy, easy-going Baloo the Bear (Steven Ennis) help Mowgli the human “cub” (Jacquelle Davis) learn the “Law of the Jungle” in their production of “The Jungle Book” that runs through May 17.

Story and photo by David F. Ashton
At a time when the arts are struggling just to stay part of local schools’ curricula, Parkrose High has a vigorous and imaginative drama program, and one example of that is about to appear on stage – open to the public – and you are invited!

Audience members laughed and cheered Parkrose High School Thespian Troupe #1783 at opening show of their production of “The Jungle Book”, this week.

“Am I a frog?” Mowgli wonders.

Featuring a cast of 41 student actors, singers and dancers – this lively, fast-paced show is unites songs, dance numbers, and audience interaction, and plays out in a colorful setting. Little kids will enjoy this show as much as adults.

“This isn’t the Disney cartoon version,” said Ms. Zena, theater instructor at Parkrose High. “In fact, this original adaptation of Rudyard Kipling’s ‘Mowgli’ story, by Mila Johanson, is truer to the author’s original short stories. Although Kipling wrote the stories on which this show is based more than century ago, our production brings in modern elements that connect with today’s audiences.”

Are these hyenas laughing at Mowgli – or with her?

The story …
The Jungle Book follows the story of a child, Mowgli (played by Jacquelle Davis), who is raised in the jungles of India by Bagheera, a wise black panther (played by Jacob Pratt), and a sleepy, goofy bear named Baloo (played by Steven Ennis).

Mowgli runs away with a band of monkeys – only to be held captive by them. Will the cunning rock python Kaa (played by Vctoria Kerr) help rescue Mowgli? Will all of the animals in the jungle learn they are truly “brothers of one blood”? Come see this show and find out!

The sly rock python, Kaa (played by Vctoria Kerr) tells Mowgli it is safe to be around here – she only eats once a week. “It’s only been five days …”

An interactive show
During the performance, some folks watching the show said they were both surprised and delighted to see the characters go out into the theater and interact with the audience.

“This is a fun show, with original, catchy music – people will walk away singing songs. It’s very bright and upbeat, and has positive messages for people of every age,” Zena added.

The monkey tribe promises to make Mowgli their leader if she comes with them – but instead, they hold her prisoner.

The “The Lion Sleeps Tonight” production number showcases acrobatic dance steps by many cast members.

Show for all ages
The full-stage set is beautiful – transforming the Parkrose High School Theater into a jungle wonderland. It was built and decorated by 40 students working or theater operations manager Terry Franceschi. Lighting effects effectively highlight the story as it unfolds.

The live musical score, played under the baton of the school’s band instructor, Michael Tolon, helps move the story along. And, appropriately-chosen recorded music effectively punctuates a dance number featuring an awakening jungle lion.

“While it is a sophisticated production,” said Zena, “this truly is a show for the entire family. We hope our community will come out and have a wonderful time with our cast and crew.”

You’ll never see more jazzy frogs than these!

Runs through May 17
There is a special matinee performance on Saturday, May 10 at 2:00 p.m. (no evening show on this date).

Or, plan to come early to get your tickets for the 7:00 p.m. curtain time on May 15, 16 or 17 for these evening performances.

The price is right; tickets at the door are: adults are $8; $5 for those 18 & under or 65+. It’s at the Parkrose High School Theater, 12003 NE Shaver St., near NE 122nd Avenue.

This colorfully staged production of a classic story has elements that appeal to audience members of all ages.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News Service

Take a look at our preview of this great show – many say it’s better than the cartoon version …

Rehearsing their parts for their production of “The Jungle Book” are Parkrose High student actors Jacob Pratt, Victoria Kerr, Steven Ennis and Jacquelle Davis. The show runs May 8th through the 17th.

Story and photo by David F. Ashton
It’s Spring Musical time … and Parkrose High School Thespian Troupe #1783 presents “The Jungle Book” starting this week.

This adaptation of Rudyard Kipling’s “Mowgli” story, by Mila Johanson, is more true to the author’s original short stories written more than 100 years ago than was the 1960s Disney cartoon version by the same title.

Based on watching the cast rehearse their parts, we’ve seen that this will be a fun, fast-paced musical. It’s loaded with songs, dance numbers, audience interaction, a colorful setting and lots of family fun. Little kids will enjoy this show as much as adults.

Story in a nutshell
The Jungle Book follows the story of a child, Mowgli (played by Jacquelle Davis), who is raised in the jungles of India by animals: Bagheera, a wise black panther (played by Jacob Pratt), and sleepy, goofy bear named Baloo (played by Steven Ennis).

Mowgli runs away with a band of monkeys – only to be held captive by them. Will the cunning rock python Kaa (played by Vctoria Kerr) help rescue Mowgli? Will all of the animals in the jungle learn — and act as if — they are truly “brothers of one blood”?

An interactive show
“Some the characters go out in the audience at different times, meeting and interacting with them,” said Ms. Zena, Parkrose High’s drama instructor.

“This is a fun show, with original, catchy music – people will walk away singing songs. It’s very bright and upbeat; it’s loaded with positive messages,” Zena added.

With lively songs, and spirited dance numbers, “The Jungle Book” will please all members of the family.

Show for all ages
The full-stage set is beautiful – the stage is transformed into a jungle wonderland. The scenery was built and decorated by students working under the direction of theater operations manager Terry Franceschi. Lighting changes effective depict changes in locations and time of day.

The live musical score, played under the baton of the school’s band instructor, Michael Tolon, helps move the story along. And, appropriately chosen recorded music effectively punctuates a dance number featuring an awakening jungle lion.

“While it is a sophisticated production,” said Zena, “This truly is a show for the entire family. We hope our community will come out and have a wonderful time with our cast and crew.”

Runs May 8 through May 17
Opening night is Thursday, May 8 and continues on May 9 with a 7:00 p.m. curtain time (please come early). and, there is a special matinee performance on Saturday, May 10 at 2:00 p.m. (no evening show on that date).

If you can’t make it this week, plan to see the show May 15, 16 or 17 – these are all evening performances.

The price is right; tickets at the door are: adults are $8; $5 for those 18 & under or 65+. It’s at the Parkrose High School Theater, 12003 NE Shaver St., near NE 122nd Avenue.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News Service

Discover why two Portland pioneers time-traveled forward
a century to speak with school kids …

“Allow me to introduce myself! I’m Dr. Harry Lane, former Mayor of Portland. This is my good friend, Georgiana Pittock; she started the Portland Rose Society. Together, we started the Portland Rose Festival 101 years ago.”

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
The 3rd grade students in Peggy Garcia’s class at Winterhaven Elementary School looked surprised to see two prominent characters for Portland’s past walk into their classroom.

It was like a history book came to life when Georgiana Pittock and Dr. Harry Lane strode in among the students, and stopping at a table set at the front of the room.

Angel Ocasio, special projects manager for the Portland Rose Festival Foundation, began the organization’s Living History Program in its SE Portland appearance, saying, “I know you’ve been studying about Portland history, and I brought two wonderful people with me. These are the people who made the Portland Rose Festival what it is today.”

Georgiana Pittock (Mary Hutchens) shows the 3rd graders her most prized possession, brought to Portland from her birthplace in Iowa, via the Oregon Trail.

The life and times of Mrs. Pittock
Dressed in her turn-of-the-twentieth-century clothing, Georgiana Pittock told the students how her family moved from Iowa to Portland.

She detailed her family’s arduous trip on the Oregon Trail. The youngsters sat in rapt attention as she told about the time she rode away from the wagon train, and was captured by a Native American tribe; and how she was returned to her family, unharmed, three days later.

As part of her presentation, Pittock showed the students examples of things they took with them on the trip, including preserves, seeds, and her dolly.

Later, as an adult, Pittock was credited with starting the Portland Rose Society.  This is the philanthropic group that still promotes the cultivation of roses throughout Portland.

Dr. Harry Lane (Dave Rianda) tells the Winterhaven students why he became a doctor, then Mayor of Portland, more than a century ago.

Father of the Rose Festival
Dr. Harry Lane, dressed as he would have been when he served as Mayor of Portland from 1905 to 1909, told the students about his youth.

Like Mrs. Pittock, Lane’s family moved to Portland when he was a boy.

Lane related how he became interested in studying medicine and becoming a physician. After starting his practice in New York, he returned to Oregon to run the state hospital, where he became known as a reformer.

This, he said, led to his being drafted into running for the office of Mayor.

How the Rose Festival was created
“1905, the Lewis and Clark Exposition was set up here, like a World’s Fair,” Lane recounted. “More than 1.5 million visitors came to Portland over a five-month period.”

At the end of the festival, Lane said the exposition’s trustees decided to gain publicity for Portland by calling it the “the Rose Capital of the World”. The plan began to gain traction: “We could invite people to come here in June of each year, and celebrate our roses. We could get them to forget about Los Angeles and Seattle, and come here to vacation!”

Working with Mrs. Pittock and volunteers from the Portland Rose Society, the Portland Rose Festival was created in 1907.

An award-winning presentation
After the presentation, Ocasio told us the Living History Program witnessed by the Winterhaven School students was the idea of idea of Marilyn Clint, the associate Executive Director of the Portland Rose Festival. “Last year, to celebrate the festival’s centennial year, they thought it would be great to bring back some of the historical characters.”

At the end of their season last year, the International Festivals & Events Association recognized the Rose Festival Living History Program as both one of the best educational programs and also one of the best community outreach programs in the world.

The Portland Rose Festival runs from May 29 through June 8. For more information, see www.rosefestival.org

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News Service

Take a look at this amazing display of student-created art …

120 students from the eight schools in the conference brought their two best works to this regional art show and competition, held at Parkrose High School in April.

Story and photos By David F. Ashton
What a surprise and delight it was to walk through the Northwest Oregon Conference Art show, held earlier in April at Parkrose High School. The art on display ranged from very good – to WOW!

Mark Warner, the Parkrose High art teacher who instructs students in pottery, ceramics, and sculpture told us about the event.

“Fifteen students, from each of the eight schools in our conference, brought their best works to the show,” Warner told us.  “Throughout the day, both our students and our visitors attended workshops and artists’ talks.”

The art on display was judged by three professional artists, the students’ peers, and by teachers, he added. “Take a look around. You’ll be impressed.”

Cesar Pina shows us his ceramic ghost character.

Great Cesar’s ghost
You’ve read about Parkrose High senior, and art genius, Cesar Pina, before, at East Portland News; we weren’t surprised to find him in the show.

“I’m holding my little ghost ceramic character,” Pina said. “This is our first project of the year, and I wanted to do something challenging. With Halloween coming up, I decided on this figure.”

Pina said this figurine wasn’t spun on a potter’s wheel.  “The basic shape is created on a core of newspaper; it needs to be hollow so it doesn’t explode in the kiln. I softened the edges, and created the shape. The newspaper burns out of the center of the figure when it is fired in the kiln. I coated it with a white, translucent glaze to give it a ghostly effect.”

We wish Pina well; he said he hopes to study animation in California; perhaps at Cal Arts.

Photographer Forest Feazle, Parkrose High sophomore, shows off his work.

Makes art with camera and lens
It’s true; we focused on local talent at our visit. Another artist with whom we spoke was Parkrose High sophomore Forest Feazle.

“I’ve tried to draw and paint – I have the artistic vision, but it just doesn’t work for me,” Feazle explained. “I started out just taking my parents’ little point-and-shoot camera on my walks at night. I took really grainy looking photographs of people and things in my neighborhood. I just got my first SLR from my aunt.”

Feazle had praise for his photography instructor, Patrick Smith, a professional photographer from the City of Maywood Park. “He has the best quality any teacher can have: He answers questions. I’m free to ask a question like ‘What would you do to achieve this kind of effect?’  He’ll answer the question, and then explain what’s behind the answer, so you understand the answer. A lot of people can do something well they can’t explain it; Mr. Smith really explains it well.”

Freshman Hayden Sexsmith shows us his captivating work of art.

We found nascent artist Hayden Sexsmith, a freshman at Parkrose High School, to be a man of few words. We did find his sculpture fascinating.

We asked what inspired his figurine entitled, “Hit the Nail on the Head”. “I don’t know. The idea came into my head,” Sexsmith said.

Art professionals Pat Boas and Dylan Morgan judge the works on display during the show and competition.

Judges: ‘Pretty amazing’
One of the judges at the show, Pat Boas, an art professor at Portland State University, took a moment to comment on what she’d seen.

“I think the show is pretty amazing,” Boas began. “There is a great array of really wonderful work here. It is very evident that these artists are inching toward both creativity and technical skill. Both the student artists – and their art teachers – are to be applauded.”

Another judge, Dylan Morgan, Gallery Manager at the Museum of Contemporary Craft agreed, “The show is great. I remember being in a similar type of show when I was in high school. It’s exciting to see so many different and unique ways of using the different media. It’s an impressive display of artwork.”

Mark Warner, the Parkrose High art teacher instructor of pottery, ceramics, and sculpture, answers questions during the art show.

‘Raises the bar’ for students
Warner told us he, too, was impressed by the art coming from students at the conference schools, which include Wilsonville, Parkrose, Century, Sherwood, Glencoe, St. Helens, Hillsboro, and Liberty.

“This event is important because it raises the bar for the students,” explained Warner.

“While a student might be the ‘hot shot’ in their class, they get to witness the quality of work put out by other students in our region.  It’s also great for the art teachers as well. It pushes us to help the students create even better works.”

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

See which students they chose from the elementary schools – and why they were honored by this great fraternal organization …

To see why Raquel De Jesus, Tommy Thilavhanh, Rachel Billick-Smith, Andrew Hurt, Emma Brent, Victor Nguyen, Tatafu Moeaki, Ruth Gomez (in back), Jackob Ball (in back), and Morgaine Mingo-Midkiff were honored – read this story!

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
As they do every year, since 1992, the Parkrose Masonic Lodge #179, along with members of the Eastgate Masonic Lodge, were honoring outstanding students from each of the Parkrose elementary schools and the middle school earlier in April.

“The purpose of this program,” said Christos Efthimiadis, the lodge’s Worshipful Master, “is to recognize, with the help of the teacher and principal, the good work these students have done this year.”

The Parkrose Middle School Brass Ensemble opens the ceremony by playing classical musical selections.

Almost every seat in the hall was filled with parents, students, and teachers – all eager to recognize the young scholars selected by their teachers, peers, and school administration.

Prescott Elementary

Prescott Elementary School honors their Outstanding Boy Student, Andrew Hurt. Standing to our right is the Lodge’s Worshipful Master, Christos Efthimiadis; to his left is teacher Mary Brown, principal Michael Lopes and Parkrose Lodge’s Past Master James Akers.

Prescott Elementary School’s Principal, Michael Lopes, introduced teacher Mary Brown who spoke about the school’s Boy Honoree, Andrew Hurt.

“This awesome student, I am so very proud of him,” Brown began.

“One of the qualities that I love best about him is his wonderful sense of humor. I believe that Andrew is destined for great things. I’m happy to have Andrew is part of my life for the last two years. I will miss the smile that lights up his face,” Brown said.

With her family standing at her side, Prescott Elementary School honors their Outstanding Girl Student, Rachel Pillick-Smith.

Prescott Elementary teacher Stephaine McCain spoke about the girl she nominated for the award, Rachel Pillick-Smith, saying, “My first impression of her was that she is a great student and really quiet. But she showed me quickly that she has a real zeal for life.

“Rachel, overall, is an enthusiastic learner. But what really stands out is her absolute love of reading. Her teachers and fellow students say she’s outstanding. She’s caring and dedicated in her friendships; she’s a natural leader. She’s a great citizen and an exceptional student who daily influences the lives of students and teachers at Prescott Elementary School.”

Russell Academy

Russell Academy honors their Outstanding Boy Student, Tommy Thilavahn.

Russell Academy teacher Chris McMurray had the honor of introducing Tommy Thilavahn.

“I could go on about Tommy’s academic achievement and growth; and how exemplary a student he is. Instead, Tommy deserves my thanks for being such a great student,” said McMurray.

“As I think about what an exemplary and outstanding student is, I think about how well Tommy presents himself and how he carries himself in a professional manner. I think he is well on his way to great successes.”

Russell Academy honors their Outstanding Girl Student, Raquel De Jesus.

Raquel De Jesus was chosen to receive recognition from her substitute teacher, Russell Academy’s Paula Schultz, standing in for Jane O’Brien.

“When I’m a substitute teacher, Raquel comes flying at me with a big smile saying, ‘I’m so glad you’ll be my teacher today’,” Schultz began.

“One student wrote, ‘Make sure you say she’s a good friend to others’. Her influence goes beyond the classroom. She’s sometimes called upon to translate in Spanish. As a recess-buddy, she’s kind and compassionate. She works hard in and out of the classroom. I look forward to seeing how she will be an positive influence in the middle school. She is truly worthy of being called our Student of the Year.”

Sacramento Elementary School
Ms. Stevie Blakely, Sacramento Elementary School’s Principal, started the awards by saying how proud she is of her students and staff. Blakely introduced teacher Melissa Alexander, who selected Morgaine Mingo-Midkiff as their honoree.

Sacramento Elementary School honors their Outstanding Girl Student, Morgaine Mingo-Midkiff.

“Morgaine is intelligent and kind; she is mature beyond her years,” said Alexander.

“She takes her education seriously. But she also has an appreciation for the simple and fun things in life, like wanting to dress up on Halloween or run around at recess. She has an innate passion for learning. In whatever she does in her life, I know that she’ll make a real difference.”

Sacramento Elementary School honors their Outstanding Boy Student, Victor Nguyen.

Teacher Brett Davidson had the pleasure of introducing Sacramento’s outstanding Boy student, Victor Nguyen. “Victor is dedicated and hard-working; he always seems to be doing the right thing.

“Math is Victor’s strong subject. He can correct me when I make mistakes, and does so well working out problems on the blackboard. He helps by translating for a student who is a newcomer to our country from Vietnam. Also, at recess, Victor is the unofficial leader in football touchdowns. Victor gives a full effort every day.”

Shaver Elementary School
Principal Cindy Bartman, from Shaver Elementary School, complemented her staff and students, and thanked the Parkrose Masons for their support.

Shaver Elementary School honors their Outstanding Boy Student, Jakob Ball.

Presenting honors to student Jakob Ball was his teacher, Peri Bauers, who said the decision to choose Jakob was a simple one.

“He’s very bright, kind, and trustworthy. He’s an excellent student in all areas, and excelled in all of the state tests. But more than this, he is a friend to all. Jakob goes out of his way to befriend those who others might ignore. He is our classroom student council representative this year. I thank Jakob for being a ‘teacher’s dream’, and a wonderful human being.”

Shaver Elementary School honors their Outstanding Girl Student, Ruth Gomez.

Ruth Gomez was selected by her teacher, Andrew Robinson.

“Some her achievements are these,” Robinson began. “She excelled in every one of her state exams. Ruth spends time as a mentor helping other students. She serves as a student council representative. She makes good use of her bilingual skills by translating instructions to other students in the class. What do I really think of Ruth? If it was possible to ‘buy stock’ in a student, I would buy as much as I could in Ruth Gomez.”

Parkrose Middle School
Parkrose Middle School’s Principal, Ana Gonzalez, welcomed parents, and honored students from her school.

Parkrose Middle School honors their Outstanding Boy Student, Tatafu Moeaki.

The teacher of student Tatafu Moeaki, Scott Ballou, said his student is easy to spot, “He stands, literally, head and shoulders above the other kids.

“Other kids like him; they want to be around him. He’s polite, respectful, and positive. It’s hard to catch him without a smile on his face. He works in the ‘snack shack’, where he’s always on time and ready to work. He works hard, and I’m glad that he’s a student with us.”

Parkrose Middle School honors their Outstanding Girl Student, Emma Brent.

The last honoree of the evening was Emma Brent. Glenda Dearinger, standing in for Emma’s teacher, began, “What a bunch of champions. Isn’t that neat?

“Instead of reading quotes the students and teachers gave me, I wrote down some of the words they used to describe Glenda. It sounds like a teacher’s wish list. These words are: Responsible, organized, cooperative, helpful, caring, eager-to-learn, positive attitude, self-confident, optimistic, cheerful – and the list goes on and on. Everyone enjoys being around Glenda. In class, students ask her for help. Her teacher said she’s also involved in virtually every sport. She’s a character – with real character – and a winner in all she does.”

In addition to the framed certificate presented to each of these students, each honored student’s name has been inscribed on a brass tag affixed to a permanent plaque that hangs in their respective schools.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News Services