What a great summertime festival! See why more folks are setting aside the second Saturday in July to attend this event …
Tyler Whitmire, president of the Portland International District Business Association strings up the welcoming banner.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
The second annual International Festival on July 14 – a community program of the Portland International District Business Association – was again gifted with sunny weather and blue skies.
And, the event grew this year, with more than double the attendance of the first one.
The An Daire Academy of the Celtic Arts – based in Portland and now with a school in Corvallis – energetically performed “Riverdance”-style Irish Step Dancing to the delight of the audience.
Making a ‘culturally inclusive’ area
“We are creating a culturally inclusive zone in Portland,” Tyler Whitmire, the president of the district association explained. “It’s where people can come and learn to understand one another. When understanding increased, people can benefit from the enlightenment that comes from exchanging ideas and culture.”
This event, Whitmire continued, helps do that by bringing people together to explore and celebrate their cultures.
Portland City Commissioner and Mayor-elect Sam Adams visits the festival. Here, he’s checking in at the Lions Club Health Screening van with volunteer Jan Wilson.
Adams congratulates fest organizers
“This festival is important in terms of what we want for our neighborhoods and our city,” said Mayor-elect Sam Adams, speaking to folks at the event. “I’ve been here both years, and it is amazing at how much it’s grown this year.”
Adams thanked Whitmire, Dr. Thomas Wright, and Eileen Stoker, and other organizers of the event. “I see lots of volunteers here, doing a lot of work to help keep this neighborhood get safe and friendly. I thank everyone who helps put this on.”
Entertainment abounds
The main stage at the Festival was the focal point for the event, as act after act entertained attendees.
Among the musical acts: Sam Bamboo played with steel drums; Love Pyle played American classics, and featured a young lady who really could belt out the blues; Allen Mathews sat in to play a solo set of Brazilian classical guitar music; and Haldaman’s Ooompa Boys finished the day with rousing Germanic songs – including the famous “Chicken Dance”.
Our International Festival Photo Album
The streets along Roseway Park are lined with public service providers, community group representatives and lots of great food booths.
The Roseway Neighbors Players Chauntey Cruz, Terrie Quinteros, Kieu-Oanh Nguyen, and Morris McClellan are introduced by the play’s author and director, Jeannie LaFrance, before they present “This Place is Home”.
Ronda Johnson of Central Northeast Neighbors hands out literature.
Artist Carol Hamilton paints a fine likeness of Spongebob Squarepants on Jakob Smith’s leg.
Demonstrating dances of the Pacific Isles is Kanani O Ka Aina. Kanani is on the left.
Again this year, it was your reporter’s pleasure to serve as Master of Ceremonies for the event. Special thanks to our audio producer, Mo McClellan.
Find out more
Want to find out more about this association, that works with business and neighbors along NE Sandy Boulevard? “Find out more information by going to www.pdxid.com, to find other ways we bring businesses and neighbors together,” invited Whitmire.
© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland New
The Metro Dancers present a summer program showing some of the city’s most talented folks that rehearse here. Take a look …
Lobster Emilie Larison, tweedle Sophie Gunz, dancers Karin Schulz and Tamara Larison, flower Violet Lane-Ruckman, and tweedle Annie Willis, take direction from volunteer and long-time Metro Dancer Len Mills. The weed, Orianna O’Neill, Riley Willis, and “Alice” Emily Sevy listen in.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Taking their show on “the road” – the Metro Dancers from Portland Metro Performing Arts Center (PMPA) are presenting a repertory concert, “Under the Summer Sky”, at the Washington Park Amphitheatre next to the International Rose Test Gardens, at 6:30 p.m. on August 1.
“This is an opportunity to showcase the talents of Metro Dancers and other local dancers in a variety of different dance styles and engaging choreography,” said PMPA’s director, Nancy Yeamans about the show. “The combination of rising pre-professionals and former professional dancers gives this company its exuberant style and polish.”
Volunteer Len Mills and PMPA director Nancy Yeamans position lobsters, as they rehearse for their upcoming show at Washington Park.
Develops well-rounded citizens
While the dancers went through their steps, dancer with the organization since 1986 and volunteer Len Mills talked about his experience with Metro Dancers and PMPA.
“Most dancers won’t go on to work and dance in a national company,” Mills observed, “Instead, they go into everyday life. But, especially for ones who get a start at an early age, they’ll go into life being a more well-rounded human being.”
Additionally, dance helps individuals gain self-confidence and good health. “When one feeds their soul with the arts, they’ll have a more interesting life, there are more enjoyable to be with, and will conduct their lives better,” says Mills.
The lobsters alive! They jump and jive!
Variety of dance numbers performed
On the bill for the Metro Dancers’ repertory concert are:
- “Controposto” choreographed by Deanna Carter; a jazz work,
- “Nightsong”, is choreographed by Linda Kuchera;
- Excerpts from “Alice in Wonderland” highlight the Tea Party, Garden of Live Flowers and Land of Cards (some of whom are real characters!);
- “Recherche'” choreographed by Joan Scott;
- “Khatanga” choreographed by Traci Castleberry Wojack, a hauntingly beautiful work set to a vocal score with Arabic influences;
- “Bluegrass” choreographed by Nancy Yeamans, with twanging banjoes and rollicking beat; and,
- “Swing Thing” choreographed by Nancy Yeamans, providing a fun romp through the Swing Era.
Three decades of dance
Wills told us that Metro Dancers was formed in 1977 to create an avenue for gifted advanced dancers to perform traditional full-length ballets, as well as modern, jazz, character and contemporary ballet pieces.
PMPA is currently located at 9933 SE Pine Street. You can learn more by going to their web site at www.PDXMetroArts.org.
© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
In the mood for ice cream? Read this and discover chef Rachel Goebert’s secret recipe for making his version of this delicious cold treat. It’s easier than you may think …
Rachel Goebert of Caprial’s Westmoreland Kitchen, shows her abilities go beyond being a professional pastry chef. She demonstrates how to make custard-style ice cream.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
In addition to all of the vendors who provide foods ranging from fresh fruit and produce to prepared meals, the Wednesday afternoon Moreland Farmer’s Market offers cooking demonstrations each week.
The market operates on the Portland Memorial parking lot at S.E. Bybee Boulevard at 14th in Westmoreland. To learn the secrets of making premium vanilla ice cream, we stopped by on July 16th.
“Making ice cream at home isn’t as difficult as many folks think,” Chef Goebert says.
“You’re just in time,” said Rachel Goebert of Caprial’s Westmoreland Kitchen. “Today, we’re demonstrating how to make custard style ice cream. And when we’re done, we’ll top it with fresh berries from the farmers market.”
As the crowd gathered, Goebert told us she graduated from Western Culinary Institute in Portland. “My specialty for the past five years is being a professional pastry chef. I’ve been cooking pretty much all of my life, ever since I had an ‘Easy-Bake Oven’ when I was a little girl.”
Chef Goebert scoops up some of her freshly made ice cream at the Moreland Farmer’s Market.
Cool demo on a hot day
Getting her ingredients together, Goebert began, “On a nice hot day, teaching people how to make ice cream, well, there can’t be anything better. Hopefully some kids here will learn how to make one of their favorite foods. And, it’s fun here hanging out in my neighborhood, meeting and teaching my neighbors.”
Although she didn’t have a stove on which to cook the ingredients, Goebert went through the recipe step-by-step. She explained that she’d already made a big batch – and it was churning in the ice cream maker as she spoke.
By the end of her demonstration, market volunteers had scooped up dozens of cups of her custard ice cream, and were topping the frozen confection with a sauce made from fresh blue and raspberries.
Recipe cards flew from the rack, cups of ice cream were whisked away, and the only sound was that of smacking lips. It was delicious.
“It’s good!” says Maya Adams-Pastor, as she samples some of Rachel Goebert’s freshly made ice cream while sitting on Andrea Pastor’s lap.
The Chef’s recipe
Custard-style Vanilla Ice Cream
- 7 egg yolks
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 2 cups of half-and-half or whole milk
- Pinch of salt
- 1 Vanilla bean, split
- 3 tbs vanilla extract
In a medium saucepan, bring cream, with the vanilla bean in it, to almost a boil. Turn off heat; let stand for about 30 minutes.
In a small bowl, whisk together sugar, egg yolks, and salt. Bring cream and half-and-half almost to a boil. Temper egg yolk mixture by adding about a cup of the boiling liquid into the bowl, while whisking.
Turn off heat and add tempered egg/sugar mixture to the saucepan and whisk briskly. Strain and refrigerate overnight or until completely cooled. Follow the directions on your ice cream making machine.
Volunteers Elaine Harper and Kathy Kreipe scoop the ice cream, and ladle on the fresh berry sauce.
© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
This band won’t be playing again until the fall – but here’s why you should watch for their listing in upcoming EastPDXNews.com Community Calendars …
Co-director Jay Burchak leads the mighty Portland Metro Concert Band in a rousing march.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
A couple of weeks ago, the parking lot outside of the Howard Horner Performing Arts Center on the campus of David Douglas High School was filling up, as patrons prepared to enjoy the Spring Concert of the Portland Metro Concert Band.
Now, the Metro Concert Band isn’t just a couple of musicians who toot tunes under a gazebo – this is a stage-sized ensemble of professional musicians who provide a first-class performance of widely varied musical selections.
This mighty band puts plays a wide variety of music very smartly.
At exactly 7:30 p.m., that summer evening, Co-director Jay Burchak raised his baton, and the concert was underway.
The program consisted of seven numbers. Under the baton of co-director Jay Burchak, the first half of the concert included a march by Jon Philip Sousa, a medley of Broadway tunes, a salute to big bands, and selections from the Broadway musical, “Oliver”.
During intermission, volunteers supply coffee and cookies as band and audience members mingle in the lobby.
Leading the band during the concert’s second half is co- Co-director Fev Pratt.
Co-director Fev Pratt took the baton after the intermission.
The band played six more selections, including portions of eight songs from the popular musical, “Annie”. The second half also featured the energetic Wagnerian classic, “Ride of the Valkyries”. This set closed with a fast-paced march that conjured up memories of attending the circus.
Although 250 people attended the concert, there was room for even more people to enjoy the fine music this great band presents.
It’s great to find terrific band music like this performed so well in the outer eastside of Portland. As word gets out about the band’s free shows – and the great refreshments during intermission – we suspect the auditorium might be filled at the next concert in the fall.
The Portland Metro Concert Band plays music of many genres, from the classics to popular show tunes.
Supported by donations
The band is supported by donations, including a grant from East Portland Neighbors, Inc., and by donations taken at the door.
© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
It’s genuine slice of Americana!
See why this community chooses to hold a parade
on Independence Day – and why …
Dillon “Spiderman” McCarthy is revving up his car, while Princess Kaylien Knecht gets ready to walk, in the City of Maywood Park’s July 4th Parade.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
For the tenth consecutive year, folks in the City of Maywood Park – located just northeast of the intersection of I-205 and I-84 – chose to celebrate Independence Day with a city-wide parade.
As the parade throng was forming, we spoke with the small city’s Mayor, Mark Hardie, who told us, “We enjoy celebrating freedom and the greatness of America here in our community.”
The parade, Hardie said, helps bring the community together. “Our neighborhood and city is all about families, and the parade is a family event. In it you’ll see kids, grandparents, dogs, and a World War II veteran who’s lived here for 55 years. The whole purpose of this is to get together and get to know our neighbors.”
Residents of the City of Maywood Park gather for their traditional annual community photograph, taken by resident and professional photographer Patrick Smith.
And they’re off! Marching to “Stars and Stripes Forever” – played over the PA system of a Multnomah County Sheriff’s patrol car – the celebrants take to the streets. On the right side of the photo, photog Smith is still up on the ladder!
“It looks like we’ll have about 150 folks in the parade today – we’ll probably have more watching from their front yards than we have marching,” Hardie observed.
The entire parade route took the revelers on a 12-block stroll through the wooded streets of their community. The parade ended up where it started, in the northwest corner of the city.
By the time the marching (actually, strolling) group returned, the order of the participants has scrambled – and no one seems to mind. Some participants dropped out along the route; others joined in, and finished the parade.
Byron Perry provides the motive force for the only float in this year’s parade …
… and we see Francesca Perry walking along side as Aidan Perry and Stella the Dog have the seats of honor as the stars-and-stripes decorated float — that their dad, Bryan is powering — cruises down the street.
The city’s Mayor, Mark Hardie, marches in the annual parade.
Says they’ll maintain their independence
After the parade, neighbors gathered at the park along side their main street – and about 250 folks tucked into a hosted barbeque. “It’s a fun, safe-and-sane way of celebrating the holiday,” noted Hardie.
We asked the mayor if there was any talk in Maywood Park City Council meetings about giving up cityhood and joining the City of Portland.
Hardie thought for a moment, smiled, and replied, “Not as long as I’m alive! Part of the independence we’re celebrating today is having our own city here in East Multnomah County. We’re very happy to be our own little city.”
Arnold Mutz, a World War II veteran – and 50-year resident of the City of Maywood Park – rides in the parade in full dress uniform.
In the parade, we are greeted by Jann Churchill and her four-legged friends, Winston and Yolsi.
Bringing up the rear are Portland Fire & Rescue’s Truck 2 and Engine 12.
© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
If you couldn’t come by, take a look at the fun we all had as outer East Portland neighbors gathered for the tradition of celebrating the 4th of July on July 3rd …
Members of this fifth-grade class wrote it, acted in it – and even took their show downtown. Find out why …
Kevin Muir, the director of the “Hot Dog Musical Theater Company” – and a Lent School fifth grade teacher – welcomes guests to a performance of his class’s play, “EarthAlerth!”.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Fifth-graders aren’t known for having long attention spans. But, Kevin Muir, a Lent School fifth grade teacher, said “pre-production” for the musical play we were about to see began on “the first day of school”.
Muir, himself, is a product of Portland-area education. He graduated from Woodstock Elementary, Meriwether Lewis Middle, and Cleveland High School. “I was a lot of theatrical productions at school.”
Thinking they won a trip to Bermuda, Melani Norell, Betsy Rivera, Miguel Navarro and Alfredo Galindo-Lopez wonder why the resort to which they’ve been invited is just a poorly-painted set. Their host (from Pluto), Alan Morales (far right), tells the students of their impending fate.
Providing ‘meaningful experiences’
Throughout the year, in addition to reading, writing, and arithmetic lessons, the 24 members of his class came up with the storyline, wrote the play and songs, and choreographed the staging, Muir told us.
“The work is extremely meaningful and engaging,” Muir said. “We have five main characters, but also involved are set designers, electricians, custom designers, stage managers, public relations, historians, lighting designers, and the band.”
The best way they can think of to face being conscripted to perform in an off-planet circus is – a song and dance number!
It’s show time … on Pluto!
About the story …
“EARTHALERTH!” is a fanciful story about a handful of Earth kids who are tricked into traveling to the planet Pluto to be Cirque du Pluto Theater Company show named … “EARTHALERTH!”.
On Pluto, kids rehearse their roles in this show that “showcases” all that is wonderful and weird about their home planet, Earth. But, the evil villain, The Bananjelar (he looks remarkably like an adult-human sized banana), attacks the troupe – before leaving to destroy Earth.
Images of Earth are featured in the Cirque du Pluto Theater Company show called “EARTHALERTH!”.
The kids race back to Earth, and in a mighty (funny) battle with The Bananjelar, they save their planet – and learn that Bananjelar is really a misunderstood fruit.
The greater themes of common sense and courage and strength are woven through the play; all these are qualities that Muir said he hopes to instill in his students.
The Earth kids confront The Bananjelar.
Before we saw the show, on May 28, the production company headed downtown to perform their outer-space adventure at the Winningstad Theater. We took in a later presentation at Lent School.
Serving diverse students
After the hour-long energetic and fast-paced show, Muir said he enjoys teaching at Lent School, located in one of the oldest and most diverse neighborhoods in the city.
“I’m determined not to let the children’s demographics inhibit their ability to learn,” stated Muir. “This hands-on model of learning is both engaging and stimulating to students. Too often, education lacks a connection with the community; through this play, my students are able to work with individuals and groups from beyond the school, and then take their product out to the world. To me, that is the essence of a meaningful education.”
What play will be created by his next fifth-grade class?
“We’ll all find out in September,” Muir said. “Check in with us next school year.”
Back on Earth, The Bananjelar chills out, and the kids decide he’s not so bad after all!
© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
The beauty and detail evident in their work is the result of craftsmanship that’s been passed down over two centuries. Read this, and learn why you should consider taking a look in person …
Min Zhu and Jimmy Cheng hold a large porcelain bowl – said to be the largest of its kind in production. After they set it down, Mr. Zhu tapped it with his finger — it rang like a bell!
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
The largest traveling display of Chinese porcelain and ceramic art – and its only stop in the United States during the current world tour – isn’t at a museum or Pearl District showroom.
This fascinating exhibit is currently showing in SE Portland.
One doesn’t need to speak or read the Chinese language to appreciate the beauty and scope of the exhibition, brought to this country by Yu Xiang Porcelain Co. Ltd. in Jingdezhen, China, and currently on display at Eastport Plaza on S.E. 82nd Avenue of Roses.
To learn more about this intriguing combination of museum and store, we enlisted the aid of restaurateur Jimmy Cheng from Grand Buffet to act as our interpreter, when we met the company’s manager, Min Zhu.
One of the antiquities Min Zhu brought to Portland is this stone carving of the Buddha’s head, made by an artisan in Jingdezhen.
Gave “China” its name
The artisans who produced porcelain and ceramic art and dishware for emperors and dignitaries for over 2,000 years didn’t realize they were inadvertently giving their country the name Westerners call now it.
“We call our nation Zh?ngguó,” Zhu began. Literally translated as “Middle Kingdom”, the compound [two pictogram] word means “the center of civilization” – which they were, while most of Europe was in the Dark Ages, and the “new world” of the Americas was yet to be discovered by Europeans.
This jade dragon shows the craftsmanship currently being done by Chinese artisans. The spider in front represents happiness for what you have, the five bats on the back are a symbol of very good luck.
“Our city of Jingdezhen [also Jingde Zhen] has been the location of the Imperial Kiln and the center of ceramic production since the early Han Dynasty,” related Zhu. “When our ancestors took our ceramics to Europe, and were asked of their origin, they said the name of our city. To Europeans, it sounded like ‘China’. Thus, Jingdezhen-produced ceramics from the nation of Zh?ngguó became known as China, and our people became known as Chinese.”
This vase is a replica of one presented to US President Richard Nixon. The temperatures when firing are precisely controlled, to keep the colors vibrant as they flow down the face of the vase.
Thin as paper
Jingdezhen was one of the four major towns in ancient China, we learned. In addition to historically dominating the development of ceramic arts, it is currently the epicenter of high-quality porcelain production today.
“They say Jingdezhen ceramics are as white as Jade, as thin as chime”, said Zhu. “Most ceramics are fired at 1,000°. But Jingdezhen kilns are much hotter, about 3,200°. Being so hot, the material gets very dense and strong. They will last much longer than other ceramics.”
In fact, Zhu said, virtually all the ceramics and porcelain on display in museums around the world were made by craftsman in his town.
This ornate, delicate porcelain vase shows fine detail and rich coloring.
Bowl rings like a bell
Zhu and Cheng walked over to a 3-foot-diameter porcelain bowl decorated with red dragons and blue waves. We caught our breath as they held up this giant piece of exquisite, translucent porcelain wear.
“See how extremely thin and delicate it is?” asks Zhu. After they set it down, he tapped the rim and it rang like a bell – and continued to reverberat for about 20 seconds.
“These are the largest [porcelain bowls] in the world,” stated Zhu. “They are very difficult to make, even for a very experienced artisan. These artists might make a hundred, or thousand of them, before they make one that is right. Then, one day, their hand is so steady, it’s like God gives them the strength and power to make this beautiful bowl.”
Modestly-priced one-of-a-kind works of art are available for purchase at the unique exhibition at Eastport Plaza on S.E. 82nd Avenue of Roses.
Ancient treasures on display
In addition to the ceramic works offered for sale, Zhu also brought stone carvings and other works of art, many of them hundreds of years old.
“We have samples of our arts and culture – these colorful and splendid ceramic works and handcrafts that represent our craft – to help the people of Portland gain a better understanding Jingdezhen porcelain,” Zhu said.
Unlike in a museum, in this case you can take home an original work of art – items are on sale ranging from $10 to $100,000 in value. “It’s wonderful for people to come and look,” commented Zhu. They don’t have to buy anything. Just come see this wonderful artistry from China.”
The exhibit and sale is open every day from 10 a.m. until 9 p.m. through August 10. Both are located at the north end of Eastport Plaza. Children are welcome – but do keep a watchful eye on them!
© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
Why is this ‘stationary carnival’ more popular than ever? Find out what we learned, when we stopped by their birthday party …
Erica, Alexia, and Kayla (she’s also having a birthday today!) Jimenez are here enjoying a slice of Oaks Amusement Park 103rd Anniversary cake.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
For people who live in most cities of our size, the only time folks can take a spin on thrill rides, play midway games, and see live entertainment, is when a carnival comes to town.
Fortunately, Portlanders can “get away from it all” all summer long – as they have for 103 years – at historic Oaks Amusement Park.
Emily McKay, promotions manager, cuts cake for guests visiting them during their 103rd anniversary celebration.
Celebrating 103 years of fun
Built by the Oregon Water Power and Railway Company, it opened on May 30, 1905 – making it one of the oldest continuously-operating amusement parks in the nation.
“It’s important to celebrate Oaks Park,” said Emily McKay, promotions manager for the park, “because coming here to play has been a Portland tradition since the days of the horse and buggy. When you come here, you get to see what Portlanders experienced so many years ago.”
Amusement rides – old classics and new state-of-the-art ones – stand side-by-side at the park.
When we visited during the park’s anniversary celebration on June 7, we were reminded how well it has blended the thrills of today’s high-tech rides with the more genteel pastimes of yesteryear.
As we strolled around the midway, McKay pointed out, “We’ve taken care of our classic rides; some of them have entertained guests for more than 60 years. And, we’ve added new, exciting rides for the brave.”
This historic roller-coaster still thrills Oaks Park patrons.
Acres of recreation
The 44-acre park is more than just rides, McKay reminded us. “The roller skating rink, the largest in the country, has been here for 102 years. It’s the last rink in the world to feature live music played on a Wurlitzer theater organ. Today’s kids may not know it, but their great-grandparents may have enjoyed the same rink.”
In addition to hosting events such as the Multnomah County Fair, and Oktoberfest, the park offers special areas in which many companies, organizations, and large families host catered picnics under the oak trees for which the park is named. And Oaks Park sells a wide variety of reasonably- priced “fair fare” to hungry carnival goers.
And, an area overlooking the Willamette River provides picnic tables dedicated to families who bring their own basket lunch.
Kids of all ages can take a leisurely spin around the park on the miniature railroad train.
Expecting a bustling summer season
With fuel prices soaring, McKay said they expect many people will stay in town. “There are no gate admission, parking, or picnic fees. We want folks to come have a safe, wholesome day with their families.”
We asked McKay why she seemed so enthusiastic about her job. “I’m in love with it; I’ve come here almost every day since I was six years old. I’m sure your family will love it too.”
Oaks Amusement Park, once a for-profit family business, but today in the permanent care of a nonprofit corporation established to benefit Portland by its former owners, is located near the foot of S.E. Tacoma Street.
They’re open Tuesday through Sunday. For more information, we’ll take you to their web site of you CLICK HERE!
Some of the Oaks Park rides – like this one – are not for the timid.
© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
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
Some dogs jump for joy; others to compete. See the X-Treme Air Dogs leap higher and higher as they each strive to take home trophies …
Producer of the “X-Treme Air Dogs” competition, Michael Allen, announces the next high-flying canine contender during the Extreme Air High Jump event.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
For many years, the canine sport of “off-the-dock long jumping” has been growing in popularity. Owners toss a toy into the water; their pooches run along a 40-foot “dog launch dock” and jump as far as they can. The dog that flies through the air for the greatest distance before hitting the water, wins.
Dogs doing a long-jump into water may not seem like “real” sport; but to thousands of registered dock-jumping teams across the country – who compete in more than a hundred officially-sanctioned events each year – it’s turned into a major-league spectator sport.
Cera Rausser and Rikki relax for a moment before they next high-jump attempt.
Adds a new dimension
As part of the 2008 Portland Rose Festival, this sport came to Oaks Amusement Park for the first time this year, on June 7 and 8.
“As part of our sanctioned ‘X-Treme Air Dogs’ competition,” said the promoter, Michael Allen, who hails from Junction City, near Eugene, “This meet is also featuring the Extreme Air High Jump.”
The concept of this competition is simple. Dogs launch themselves off the dock, and try to bite a chew-toy suspended high in the air eight feet from the end of the dock – before plunging into the 27,000 gallon pool. The competition starts with the toy suspended 5’8′ above the water, and is raised a few inches for each subsequent jump by each dog.
On the launch dock, Cera Rausser coaches Rikki, giving her words of encouragement.
Taking the plunge
These contests were taken very seriously by all 65 owners who signed up for the competition. But for the dogs, it’s clearly all play. The crowd around the pool cheered on the teams and applauded each successful attempt, as the bar rose higher and higher.
“Rikki does it because she really seems to like it,” said her owner, Cera Rausser, from Warren, Oregon. “This is our third competition. She’s got experience in the long-jumping game; but she’s new at playing the high-jumping game.”
In addition to bragging rights, winners took home cash and prizes, Allen told us. “This event is part of our four-city tour called ‘Chase to the Championship’. We loved Portland, and so did the competitors. We plan to be back as an official Rose Festival every year.”
Rikki launches into the air. She’s reaching for the black-striped toy hung from two ropes …
grabs the toy …
heads for the water, toy firmly in mouth …
Splashdown!
First-time flyers welcome
The promoter said that he plans to add events in the Portland area, and “first-time jumpers” are always welcome at these competitions. “We host four divisions, from little pups to pros.”
To learn more, see their web site by CLICKING HERE.
© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
Find out how this market’s organizers are meeting the needs of its ‘food-insecure’ residents – and how everyone benefits …
Jill Kuehler, Lents International Farmers Market Manager, talks with a customer at the Community Table on the market’s opening day.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
The most recent local open-air marketplace to open for the year, on June 15, was the Lents International Farmers Market.
“Last year was our first full season,” said manager Jill Kuehler. “We had an average of about 400 customers and 8 vendors every Sunday last year. This year we’re doubling our number of vendors, and we hope to double our number of customers as well.”
Meeting community’s food needs
Three years ago, Kuehler said, a research project showed that about 25% of Lents-area residents felt insecure about the availability of, and the ability to buy, fresh and wholesome food in the area.
“Of all the ideas the group came up with, an international farmer’s market is what really resonated with the neighborhood,” explained Kuehler.
Offering freshly grown greens, raised at the Portland State University Learning Lab Gardens on SE 60th Street, are graduate students Stephanie Rooney, assistant manager, and Jeanne Ferreira, garden manager. They accept donations, and give produce to families in need.
Fresh from the farm
An dependably early sell-out at this market each week is the eggs Bonnie Hodge brings from her Brookside Farms, ten blocks from this market. One customer quipped, has he snapped up a dozen, “These eggs are so fresh, I don’t think the hens have had time to miss them.” Hodge warned, “Once you’ve tried farm-fresh eggs, there’s no going back.”
“Blooming Goodies” returned this season their stunning flower bouquets and unique Asian produce. “Caspian Blossoms”, new to the market this year, sells Turkish and Arabic pastries, plus olive spreads, eggplant dips, and dolmas – an Eastern European stuffed vegetable dish.
Three cultural celebrations planned
Scattered throughout the summer, the market has planned events celebrating the culture of Eastern Europe (July 13), Southeast Asia (Aug. 17), and Latin America (Sept. 21).
“These events promote the cultural diversity of Lents residents and the market vendors, while creating an educational opportunity for people to learn more about their neighbors,” noted Kuehler.
While her mom and dad shop, Ailee Pederson creates artwork at the market’s children’s center.
Weekly music and activities
Musical entertainment, cooking demonstrations showing how to prepare many of the more exotic vegetables available at the market, and children’s activities, are offered each week.
Prepared foods and beverages from Parkrose’s “Traveling Coffee Kids” rolling kitchen, fresh fruit pies and pastries, and Mexican delicacies are also available. We enjoyed a delicious chicken-and-vegetable tamale prepared by a family participating in the Hacienda CDC program called “Micro Mercantes” – it teaches entrepreneurial skills, while providing economic opportunities.
Plans July food stamp promotion
“As part of our mission, we accept food stamps,” commented Kuehler. “During the month of July, we’ll help stretch their value by giving these customers extra value. For every food stamp dollar spent, the market will match it, up to $5 each week.”
Kuehler asked us to thank their major supporters: Zenger Farm, a non-profit farm and wetland in outer southeast Portland, Kaiser Permanente Community Fund of the Northwest Health Foundation, and New Seasons Markets.
Where and when
Lents International Farmers Market
- Where: The corner of SE 92nd Avenue and Foster Road.
- When: Sundays, 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. through October 14
To learn more, CLICK HERE or call (503) 621-7655
© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
