Discover why a retired company president is leading a campaign to fully-fund Head Start programs. And, see a cute photo of Governor Ted Kulongoski reading to kids at the rally at Russellville …
Governor Ted Kulongoski read the storybook, “David Goes to School”, to the children in such a colorful and engaging way that, the kids at the Head Start program at Russellville didn’t pay attention to the reporters and TV gear at the “Ready for School” campaign stop.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
“If we want to cut crime, reduce social services expense, and boost the state’s economy, fully-fund Head Start programs statewide.” This is the message delivered at a “Ready for School” campaign rally in Russellville on September 12 by business leaders, politicians, and the East Precinct police commander.
While Governor Ted Kulongoski appeared at the rally as a media drawing-card, Richard Alexander, the retired founder of Oregon-based Viking Industries, talked up the initiative effort.
“The statewide ‘Ready for School’ campaign is committed to making early childhood education available to all eligible children living in homes below the poverty level,” Alexander told us in a private interview. “Our organization is made up of concerned folks, none of whom stands to benefit — either financially or politically — from this effort.”
Those listed as initiative supporters range from liberal to conservative; and come from all sectors of the economy. “We’re a diverse group, but we all agree that early childhood education will improve the lives of many children. But more importantly, it will improve their lives as adults.”
Retired founder of Viking Industries, Richard Alexander, makes his case in favor of early childhood education before a well-attended press conference at the Russellville Head Start program.
Economic argument for Head Start programs
Early childhood education is a critical economic issue for Oregon, Alexander, Chair of the “Ready for School” campaign, explained. “Without a good education, children tend to do poorly in school. Many drop out of education along the way. Those who ‘fall’ along the way eventually get ‘caught’ in our social safety net. They are more likely to become incarcerated throughout their lives.”
During his remarks at a press conference held at the Russellville Head Start Center, Alexander said the research he’s seen is convincing:
“If a child isn’t reading at the third-grade level at the end of the third grade, the odds are high they will not be reading at ninth-grade level in ninth-grade. They are likely to drop out of school.
“Too often these kids go into the fourth grade and beyond, and decide that won’t be measured by academic standards. Mentally, they drop out of school. They get big enough to walk out in ninth grade.
“After that, if they drop out, the likelihood they’ll get in trouble with the law, or be incarcerated, goes up very sharply. As they grow into adults, they are likely to depend on long-term social services, including lifestyle-induced medical problems.”
Head Start breaks poverty cycle
Sadly, Alexander added, it is likely that the children of poorly educated individuals will repeat this cycle. “We’re trying to break that cycle. Things clearly don’t need to be this way.”
To back up his sentiment, Alexander produced the results of research studies demonstrating that a child who has been in Head Start is twice as likely to graduate college as one who didn’t. “That’s compelling. In addition to their having a more fulfilling life, consider the enormous economic savings to society.”
On the bandwagon
Oregon’s education superintendent, Susan Castillo, speaks up for early education programs.
State Superintendent of Schools Susan Castillo, spoke briefly, noting yet another benefit to the program: “Every dollar we invest in Head Start means fewer teen pregnancies.”
Governor Ted Kulongoski said he visited the outer East Portland Head Start facility in Russellville to draw attention to the need for early childhood education.
Governor Ted Kulongoski remarked, “We have a changing society. In this competitive global economy, change is the rule of the day. How do we give every child in Oregon an opportunity to compete in this economy?‚ĶInvest in education and skills training. Oregon’s niche should be to have the best trained, skilled, and educated workforce of any state in the country.”
Merkley cites a 17 to 1 return on investment
While not an official speaker at the event, Oregon Representative Jeff Merkley told us he attended to show his support.
“I’ve been championing full funding for the Head Start program. I’m glad the governor came to my district to support this campaign for early childhood education. It is really clear that when you invest in children, the returns for society are enormous. The young people have happier and more productive lives, pay more taxes and consume less social services.”
Merkley added, “Reports I’ve seen shows a 17-to-1 return on dollars invested in early childhood learning programs. This is well worth considering.”
The antidote to crime: Hope
We asked Portland Police Bureau’s East Precinct Commander Michael Crebs why he was at this event.
“I support this new campaign for Head Start,” Crebs related to us, “because education and mentoring for young people are keys to reducing crime and the fear of crime.
“It’s all about hope. People who are educated tend to have more hope in their lives. People who have more opportunities are less likely to become involved in criminal activity. They’re more likely to be productive, tax-paying citizens.
“From my experience as a police officer, it’s clear to me that people who have the hope and opportunities that education brings, typically don’t get in trouble. The ones we see [in the criminal justice system] are the ones who have no hope.”
Behind the scenes: Ever wonder what is going in the room during a “photo opportunity” set up for person running for political office? The scene isn’t quite as warm and cozy as it looked on TV news.
For more information, see www.ready-for-school.org.
© 2006 David F. Ashton ~ East PDX News
Following the unique tradition there, incoming David Douglas High School freshmen are greeted by upper-class student mentors, teachers, and administrators. But see why, this year, Mayor Tom Potter was part of the welcoming committee …
Mayor Tom Potter and district superintendent Barbara Rommel join some of the Scot “Link Team”, as they welcome, and gave the “wave”, to the largest class in DDHS history.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
At David Douglas High School, the “new kids in school” are cheered, not jeered, by a school-wide welcoming committee on Freshman Orientation Day.
But this year was different. Mayor Tom Potter was there also, joining in the welcome of the new students to the state’s largest high school ‚Äì a campus housing more students than many Oregon towns have population.
Sharing a light moment outside the school are DDHS Principal Randy Hutchinson, Mayor Tom Potter, and Superintendent Barbara K. Rommel.
We asked the Mayor why he came to outer East Portland early on this particular morning.
“I’m the Mayor of this school district, too,” Potter told us, flashing a broad smile. “I’m here to draw the attention of East Portland people to the fact they have a great school district in David Douglas. And, I’m asking the people here to vote for ballot measure 26-85, so we can really create the best future for our children.”
Mayor meets Link Crew
Mayor Tom Potter meets DDHS “Link Crew” members Thuan Huinh, Emily Yip, Samantha Cha, and Oile Dao.
On his way into the school, Mayor Potter met representatives of the school’s “Link Crew” He learned team’s mission is to ease the transition of grade-schoolers 9th grade.
“It is like a Big Brother/Sister program,” explained the school’s Principal, Randy Hutchinson. “Each Link Crew member takes eight to ten freshmen under their wing, especially the first week. The young kids can ask any Link Crew member for help and know they’ll get it.”
Hutchinson said Link Crew members aren’t necessarily the team captains and club presidents. “They are middle-of-the-road, ordinary students who have a drive to, and desire to, help others.”
“Let’s go in and meet the freshmen,” Potter said.
David Douglas’ challenges
On our way in, we spoke Barbara K. Rommel, Superintendent of David Douglas School District.
“Our biggest challenge,” Rommel told us, “is our enrollment growth. We’re anticipating 3% more students than last year — the largest enrollment in the history of David Douglas school system. In all, we’ve had a 25% increase since 1999. This is really stretching our classroom space. While other schools are closing, we’re working to create the space we need to keep class sizes manageable.”
Rommel said the Mayor’s visit demonstrates his commitment to education at all of the schools in the City of Portland. “And, with David Douglas being the largest high school in the state, it is really great to see our city’s Mayor here, welcoming the freshmen.”
Mayor Tom Potter addresses 800+ freshmen – the largest single class in David Douglas High history – at their orientation.
The mayor’s introduction at the assembly was met with wild cheering. “Good morning everybody! What a good-looking group of people you are. You are so fortunate. You are attending, not only the largest high school in Oregon, but one of the very best. All of your teachers, staff members, and Link Crew members are here to help you succeed. Have a great year.”
Asked why he was coming out in support of David Douglas building program bond, the mayor responded, “Investing in students today pays all of Oregon back tomorrow.”
Building project underway
The school’s Principal, Randy Hutchinson, commented on our way out, “It’s is nice to see that he [Potter] has hung his hat on being an ‘education mayor’, and he’s paying attention to East County.”
The challenge for the school, Hutchinson told us, is “sheer numbers. Enrollment keeps increasing. It looks like our enrolment is about 2,900, and another 200 students at our alternative school.”
The growling of earth-moving equipment was punctuated with the blaring of back-up claxons as he pointed to an area east of the main building. “While other schools are closing and consolidating, this construction project will add twenty classrooms. We need them.”
© 2006 David F. Ashton ~ East PDX News
See one of the ways Midland Library got kids into the library this summer – leaving with a craft that sticks to the refrigerator …
Ryan, Nic, Megan, their mom, Beth McClain, take part in one of the library’s Summer Fun and Reading programs ‚Äì making creative refrigerator magnets by cutting and layering materials onto a magnetic surface.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Dozens of East County refrigerators will be better decorated, after kids came home from this event at Midland Library.
We asked library manager Carolyn Schell why they run programs like this. “A library doesn’t benefit citizens unless they use it. And, thanks to creative programs for young people during the summer, Midland Library gets well-used!”
Making animal magnets was the theme of the session a few weeks ago. Young artists cut and arranged fabrics of all colors and finishes, to make their own unique designs.
These girls were too shy to tell us their names, but their parents said they loved being photographed as they created works of magnetic art.
© 2006 David F. Ashton ~ East PDX News
Aaarrrr, avast, ye maties! See 1,200 kids and adults having a great time to the tunes of ‘Captain Bogg and Salty’, as a Southeast Portland Summer Reading Program comes to an end ‚Ķ
The turnout to see ‘Captain Bogg and Salty’ at Sellwood Park was even larger than expected by the youth librarians at the Sellwood Library.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
The area of Sellwood Park north of the Sellwood Pool started filling with parents and kids long before the band was to take the stage on August 9. It was apparent that word had gotten out that ‘Captain Bogg and Salty’ were set to entertain.
Going backstage to greet Captain Bogg, we were rebuffed. This band dresses, swaggers, talks — and treats the press! — like pirates. “The Captain is tuning up his voice, best not to bother him,” said First Mate McGraw (Kevin Hendrickson). “Or he may ye walking the plank!”
We settled for an interview with First Mate McGraw, who told us, “We’re a pirate band for all ages. We play many libraries every summer.”
We asked, “Why libraries?”
“Kids need good music, too!” exclaimed Mr. Fillabuster, aka Lucas Haley. “This is the third time they’ve played for Sellwood Library.”
The First Mate added, “Each time we’ve moved to a larger location. Now it looks like there be better than 1,200 young and old buccaneers here!”
Making their eye-patches at the event are Nico, Jake, Owen and Jenna Robertson. Asked why they came, mom Jenna said, “Why do you think? Arrrrr! This is so much fun!”
Reading treasured
Minutes after the very entertaining band started playing, kids were laughing and dancing. We asked Sellwood Children’s Librarian Marcy Davis why the library chose a pirate band to perform at the finale for their Summer Reading Program.
“Pirate-themed movies have caused an upswing in kids looking for pirate books. And we like anything that gets kids to read,” Davis explained. “We love having them perform for our kids. No one gets them having more fun than Captain Bogg and Salty.”
Everyone seems to be have a great time listening to, and watching, the antics of Captain Bogg and Salty’s professionally-performed, yet silly, musical show.
The band, all Portland natives who have played together for seven years, do more than just play songs and make jokes. “They connect kids with the love of books,” Davis explained.
School support for summer reading
Brianne Williams, another staffmember at the Sellwood Library, revealed that 747 kids signed up for the summer reading program at the branch this year. “But this number doesn’t include all the kids who signed up directly at their school,” Williams explained.
For the last few years, she said, the Multnomah County Library system has worked directly with public and private elementary and middle schools to get kids signed up for summer reading before school is out in June.
“For example, the librarian at Llewellyn Elementary, Cheryl McDonald, has worked with teachers to get every single student signed up for summer reading the last two years,” said Williams.
Bogg and band to play Pirate Fest Sept. 23
You have another chance to see this fun group on September 23 ‚Äì but you’ll have to go to St. Johns to see them!
If you missed this event, you can take in a “full day day of piracy,” as First Mate McGraw put it, at Cathedral Park on September 23. “We’ll have The Lynx, a replica pirate ship used in recent motion pictures docked under the bridge.”
Interested? See www.PortlandPirateFestival.com for more information.
© 2006 David F. Ashton ~ East PDX News
Do you know these punks? Turn them in and get $1,000 …
Parkrose High School principal Roy Reynolds says he’s pretty sure these two fellows aren’t students. He is sure that their midnight target-practice session cost the school thousands of dollars.
UPDATE: On Thursday, August 31 at 12:35 p.m, Portland Police East Precinct detectives arrested 15-year-old Aaron Kinsey on one count of Criminal Mischief in the First Degree in connection with the August 11 vandalism at Parkrose High School. Kinsey was taken into custody in the 4500 block of NE 111th Ave. and was lodged into the Multnomah County Juvenile Detention Center.
Story by David F. Ashton
Many positive things have happened since Roy Reynolds came to Parkrose High School a couple of years ago: Grades are up, attendance is better, vandalism is way down.
Reynolds gives the credit to the staff and great students who “come here to learn. This includes learning to really care about the school.”
Talking about the new school year about to start, Reynolds looks confident and enthusiastic as he tells us how the staff is getting ready for another great year at the home of the Broncos.
“But, I’ve got to tell you, David,” Reynolds says, with a serious expression, “Walking around, seeing the damage these guys did, it’s a bummer.”
Smashing spree
On August 11 at 2:16 a.m., Portland Police discovered windows of the high school, along with several outbuildings, were vandalized.
The school’s surveillance cameras recorded the suspects shooting at the windows with an unknown type weapon, possibly a BB gun or .22cal handgun, throwing rocks and eventually throwing a log through the window. The suspects were caught on tape “celebrating” and laughing as they committed over $5,000 damage to the school.
Police describe “Suspect #1” is described as black male teenager wearing a black “skull cap”, a white long sleeve hoodie sweatshirt under a black t-shirt, baggy jean shorts, and white tennis shoes with dark laces.
They say “Suspect #2” is described as a white or Hispanic teenager, wearing a dark colored hoodie sweatshirt, dark baggy shorts, and dark tennis shoes.
Drain on school resources
“This damage just diverts resources away from programs that benefit our students,” Reynolds tells us, “into needlessly replacing windows We’ve carefully looked at the photos, and, at this time, we don’t believe either one of these guys are Parkrose students.”
Finger the punks, get a grand
Got information? Give Detective Scott Pitton, Portland Police Bureau at (503) 823-4802.
Crime Stoppers is offering a cash reward of up to $1,000 for information, reported to Crime Stoppers, that leads to an arrest in this case, or any unsolved felony, and you remain anonymous.
Call Crime Stoppers at (503) 823-HELP (4357). The Case number is “06-26 HIGH SCHOOL VANDALISM”.
© 2006 David F. Ashton ~ East PDX News
If music truly is the “universal language” ‚Äì see how Rich Glauber uses delightful tunes to tempt tots to read at the library ‚Ķ
Using the magic of music to make friends with kids, Rich Glauber brings his program to Midland Library as part of the Summer Reading Program.
Story and photo by David F. Ashton
Musician Rich Glauber travels the globe as a performer. Recently, he has appeared in Costa Rica, Israel, and Spain.
So, what was this classically-trained musician doing, sitting on the floor, in Midland Library’s activity room on July 18?
“I’m doing my favorite thing,” Glauber told us, “sharing the wonder and delight of music with kids.”
Glauber used a wide variety of instruments to draw the kids into his stories and play along with him.
Early in the program, some parents acted concerned when their little ones started sitting closer and closer to the musician. “It’s OK, we’re all having fun today,” Glauber said as he started into his next song.
It wasn’t long until both children and parents fell under Glauber’s spell. Because he brought a large number of percussion instruments, soon, listeners became performers as he played and sang original songs. Even parents were caught up in, and began to sing along with the youngsters.
Glauber’s program, “Music in Action”, was a bilingual presentation, part of the library’s Summer Reading Program.
For more information about Glauber, see www.richglauber.com.
© 2006 David F. Ashton ~ East PDX News
Why did the smell of sweat, dirt and gunpowder, and the sound of gunshots, screams ‚Äì and laughter ‚Äì fill the late afternoon air in Parkrose throughout the first week of June? Here’s why ‚Ķ
Parkrose High School student actors Marie Still, Brandon Wilcox, Madison Cook, Jonathan Wheatfall, Anna Moellering, and Tyree Harris act in the film, “The Tail of Nick Rose” to be premi?®red at the Rossi Barn Bash on July 8th.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Why the commotion at Rossi Farms? Students from Parkrose High School’s video production and drama classes were working together on an end-of-year project: The class’ new short film, “The Tail of Nick Rose”. This film will be premi?®red at the Rossi Barn Bash’s Theater on the Haybales on July 8.
“Working on this movie has been a great experience,” Ms. Zena, Parkrose High’s theater instructor, told us. “We’ve have 40 kids out here shooting this film all week. I think the kids were shocked how difficult it is to shoot a movie — even a short film like this.”
Zena explained that her student actors are used to working on stage. “When doing a film, there isn’t the continuity. It has been a good learning experience for them.”
Soundman Taylor Ward and director/camera operator Evin Carr get ready for their next take while shooting “The Tail of Nick Rose”, to be premi?®red at the Rossi Barn Bash on July 8th.
Joe Rossi smiled as he watched the action taking place at the “Wild West Show” set on his farm. “I’m excited about this year’s movie. I always wanted to include the school in this project. The students rewrote the story, and made it their own. It tells how old-time Parkrose was invaded by bad elements from Portland.”
And how does the story end? Come out and see it, while you enjoy the best all-you-can-eat BBQ chicken dinner around, grilled by the Parkrose Lions; see a live-action wild-west show; dance to country music ‚Äì and enjoy the first showing of this movie, at this year’s Rossi Barn Bash!
“Turkey Creek Tom” Mannen shows actors how to safely handle the guns used on the Rossi movie set. Mannen is the leader of Turkey Creek Productions ‚Äì the group who puts on the Wild West Action Show at the Barn Bash.
Rossi Barn Bash
Benefiting Parkrose Youth Activities Fund
Saturday, July 8
6:00 p.m. until Midnight
Still only $12 each (must be over 21)
At Rossi Farm, 3839 NE 122nd Ave (at Shaver St.)
Tickets at the gate, or in advance at Rossi Farm Store
© 2006 David F. Ashton ~ East PDX News
The final concert of the year showed off the talents of four Parkrose High choirs. But see how it looked when all four choirs were joined by graduates from past years!
Take the Parkrose High Concert Choir, add the Treble Choir, the Debonaires, and A-Choir ‚Äì then ask choir program graduates from past years to join in on stage ‚Äì and you’ve got one mighty choir singing “River in Judea”!
Story and photo David F. Ashton
Parents, students and community members were treated to a 19-song concert at the Parkrose High School Theater.
Choir Director Lesley Ann Bossart (above) conducted the school’s four choirs as they sung tunes ranging from spirituals to classical music at the on June 6.
Near the end of the program, emotions ran high, as the school bade the departing seniors farewell.
© 2006 David F. Ashton ~ East PDX News
Why are a bus-load of kids from the Powellhurst-Gilbert Neighborhood taking over the streets of the Hollywood district? Tune in to this fun article …
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Unlike many years when it has nearly been flooded out, the June 7th Portland Rose Festival Fred Meyer Junior Parade was met in 2006 by balmy spring weather. The sunshine brought out thousands of people to watch this, the largest children’s parade in the nation.
Many kids are decked out in colorful costumes as they ride floats, bikes, unicycles – and almost anything else that rolls and can be pulled along the 17-block route.
But, what really makes this a great parade are the marching musicians. This year, Ron Russell Middle School was well-represented by its Dance Team and Marching Band. The crowed enjoyed seeing these youths as they danced and played down the parade route.
Hopefully, we’ll see this great band in next year’s parade!
© 2006 David F. Ashton ~ East PDX News
See what happened when Parkrose High School students put on their first-ever outdoor performances …
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
The final performances for the Thespians of Parkrose High School offered a triple-show production the first days of June – outdoors!
Two evening shows and one afternoon performance attracted hundreds of community members, parents, and friends, who appeared to be thoroughly entertained.
Play Days of the Imagination – Just A Reminder
The Advanced Theater Class students wrote and produced this program. They shared their imaginative presentation with Prescott and Shaver Elementary schoolchildren.
Dog Lady
The Advanced Class produced and group-directed this piece, performed at the MHC One Act Festival. They also went on to present it at the State Acting Competition in Salem.
A Midsummer Night’s Dream
A unique adaptation of William Shakespeare’s play ‚Äì complete with love stories, battles against Amazons, trouble-making fairies, and so much more!
Next year, watch for the musical comedy, “Bye Bye Birdie”, the comedy farce “Arsenic & Old Lace”, and Shakespeare’s romantic drama, “Romeo & Juliet”.
© 2006 David F. Ashton ~ East PDX News
Don’t miss it! See great plays presented by the
Parkrose High School Thespians June 1-3 …
While this isn’t, exactly, a scene you’ll see Parkrose High School’s production of “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” Parkrose Thespians Brian Fitzgerald, Stephanie Levine, Madison Cook and Tyree Harris put fresh energy into this classic play on June 1-3.
Story and Photo by David F. Ashton
Three! Three! Three plays in one show! Theater instructor Ms. Zena let us see a sneak preview, and you’ll want to at Parkrose High School to catch the theater department’s last performance of the year.
The first show is a children’s show called “Play Dates of Imagination – Just a Reminder”. This presentation was created by the Advanced Theatre Class and was performed at two Parkrose Elementary Schools during April.
Then, you’ll see a one-act play called “Dog Lady”,by Milcha Sanchez Scott. This is a comedy about two sisters – one who is trying to reach for the stars, the other who is still trying to figure out exactly what to reach for.
The final half of the program will be William Shakespeare’s classic, “A Midsummer Night’s Dream”. Enjoy a romantic comedy about mixed up love and the people who get stuck in it ‚Äì and ‚Äì those who just make more a mess of the situation.
Shows in the great outdoors – weather permitting
All performances will be held in the courtyard at Parkrose High School. You are encouraged to bring your picnic dinner, lawn chairs, blankets, and or pillows to enjoy while watching the show. In case of inclement weather (this is springtime in Oregon), performances will be held indoors.
Three Parkrose Plays
June 1 & 2 at 6:30 p.m.
June 3 at 2 p.m.
Tickets are $5 per person
Parkrose High School
12003 NE Shaver Street
Information: (503) 408-2621
© 2006 David F. Ashton ~ East PDX News
See how your return-deposit bottles and cans and help the Parkrose ‘Can Clan’ help kids in outer East Portland ‚Ķ
On May 6, we found these young men were hard at work with the Parkrose Boosters. Why? As Jeffrey Simon told us, “to help raise money for our football program next year.”
Story and Photo by David F. Ashton
It’s easy to pitch or ditch your return-deposit cans. But, here’s a better idea! Save them, and take them to the Parkrose Middle School on NE Shaver (just west of NE 122nd Ave.), on the first Saturday of every month!
The Parkrose Bronco Boosters operate this can drive all year long, to raise money for the activities like the Senior All Night Party. Some of the money also goes to scholarships, we’re told.
Have a big pile of cans? Contact the Boosters through Parkrose High School ‚Äì they’ll arrange to come pick them up!
© 2006 David F. Ashton ~ East PDX News Click Here to read more East Portland News
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