See how the East Multnomah County office of this oft-criticized state agency has put together an event – sponsored by donors – which provided recovering parents the chance to reunite with their kids …
At the DHS Christmas Party, Joel successfully fishes for a teddy bear, with the help of his dad Joey Sue and DHS worker Sarah Lee.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Beneath the fairy-tale image of a toys-and-tinsel Christmas depicted in the advertisements, there lies a dark and often-confusing world in which live kids who’ve been taken into protective custody.
“There has to be severe risk involved, for children to be taken into protective custody,” says Mary Boehme, DHS Child welfare Case Worker at the East Multnomah County Branch Office which serves outer East Portland and Rockwood. “It happens, if there is a genuine concern about the child’s safety.”
Many methamphetamine addicts are also parents, law enforcement officials remind us. “But there are many different drug addictions which cause parents to neglect their children and not give them the care they need. Domestic violence and mental health issues are also things that hinder a family from staying together,” explains Boehme.
The parent or parents are given up to a year, Boehme tells us, in which to remedy their situation and get their lives in order.
“Often times, these parents are thankful for the DHS process that helps them turn their lives around. This process includes parenting classes, drug and alcohol treatment, counseling, and maintaining a stable residence and job so the can support their child. If one or both of the parents have been involved in the criminal justice system, they also need to abide by the conditions of their release,” adds Boehme.
Elf Kathie Nicholas and Santa Claus encourage Anthony Dominquez to share his Christmas wishes with them.
Party brings delight, and anticipation
On December 18, both kids and adults streamed into an office building with no sign, set back in a large strip mall on SE 122nd Avenue – there to attend a Christmas Party put on by DHS case workers.
The children, if they have not in the care of a family member, have been staying with a foster care family. The adults invited to the party are parents who have dedicated themselves to changing their lives and getting their families back together.
“For parents who are working through the DHS process,” Boehme says, “it gives them a glimpse of ‘what could be’ when they complete their program and are reunited with their children. If they are engaged in the process, they welcome the opportunity to have some kind of engagement with their child.”
And, by the looks on their faces, the kids love the event from the moment they enter.
Meeting and counseling rooms offer host of crafts and games in which all the kids are winners. And, in a special room, the youngsters get to have a one-on-one meeting with jolly Santa Claus himself.
“A lot of these kids don’t have any good Christmas memories – like making cookies, playing games, getting new gifts, and seeing Santa,” observes Boehme.
Delivering hot pizza for the party, flanking Santa and the Elves, are Pizza Baron’s Jeff and Bill Dayton.
Pizza feast caps event
We meet case worker Stacey Mahler in a large room, deep in the office complex, that has been turned into a holiday luncheon café.
Looking at the smiling, giggling kids pouring in, Mahler comments, “These kinds have a lot of disruptions in their lives. Events like this provide the setting for a positive visit with their mother, father or siblings – sometimes kids are sent to different foster homes.
“We have fun activities to do. It gives back to them when most it is unpleasant and negative stuff. When they get here they have a good time together.”
Community pitches in
Kids make a beeline to the hot, bubbling pizza provided by Bill Dayton’s Pizza Baron, just up the street. Their eyes light up as they see the “Dot Cakes” provided by Saint Cupcake.
And, both parents and kids take home more than memories.
Caricature artist Sam Arneson draws ‘toon pictures of kids for 5 hours; elves take instant photos of kids visiting Santa. For the youngsters, Christmas comes early, in the form of all kinds of toys – ranging from plush animals to bicycles.
“What makes this possible is the generosity of businesses and organizations in our community,” Mahler confides.
She asks us to acknowledge the major sponsors: Pizza Baron, Safeway on SE 122nd Avenue at Powell Boulevard; N.W. Priority Credit Union; Ace Hardware on SE 122nd Avenue. at Division; Saint Cupcake; On Line Credit Union; The Vance Foundation; Portland Winter Hawks; FGG Inc.; and Plumbers and Steamfitters Local 290, which made a grant of $1,000.
© 2007 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News Service
From lovers of pugs to bugs, all kinds of clubs line up to drop off toys for needy kids at Eastport Plaza …
A dozen “Bugs”, from the Portland-area Absolutely Volkswagen Club, line up – as their drivers drop off toys at the Eastport Plaza site on December 1.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
As the frenzied holiday shopping season gets under way, many vehicles pulling into shopping malls will leave packed with gifts to be placed under the Christmas tree.
But on December 1, a steady line of vehicles that pulled into Eastport Plaza, on SE 82nd Avenue of Roses just north of Holgate, arrived full of new toys – and left empty. Their drivers were participating in an area-wide toy drive.
Many of those who donated came individually. But we also saw groups of vehicles, whose drivers belong to various clubs, lining up to make donations. One set of cars sported canine companions – and many of the pug pups inside were dressed in costume.
Soon after, a squadron of “bugs” lined up outside the “NewsChannel 8 Toy Drive” collection trailer.
“We’re from the Absolutely Volkswagen Club,” explained member John Jenson who was driving his ’63 VW Bug convertible. “It’s a good thing to do.”
Volunteers Kiri Griebel and Jenna Hollinger work with NewsChannel 8’s Kelly Schweiger, telling us that this Southeast Portland location hosts one of the best toy drop-off events in all of Portland.
4th year at Eastport Plaza
“Participating in this event is one way we’re involved with the community we serve,” said Eastport Plaza’s manager Ken Turner. “Offering our site for the toy collection drive is one small way of helping our community.”
Most of the toys collected at the event will go to local nonprofit organizations on the east side, Turner added. “The Wattles Boys & Girls Club in Lents and the Meyer Boys & Girls Club in Sellwood benefit directly from the generosity of Southeast Portlanders today.”
Turner said the organizers of the toy drive say this particular toy collection event is one of the largest in the city. “It is a good indication how much people care about others in their neighborhoods.”
Kids learn joy of giving
We watch as children bring brand new toys to the volunteers at the collection truck, and we agree with Turner who observed, “When you see the smiles on the faces of little kids when the bring up a gift they know will go to a needy child warms your heart. It shows that these children are already learning the true spirit of Christmas.”
© 2007 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News Service
See how this East Portland Community Center has grown – and learn how you can help a young man fulfill his dream of representing the USA overseas …
More than fifty crafty vendors filled three rooms at the Community Center with gift ideas of all kinds.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
One of the delights of dropping in at events, such as the East Portland Community Center’s 7th Annual Holiday Christmas Bazaar, is the unexpected discovery of delightful stories.
We met the coordinators of the bazaar, Judy Collier and her sister, Barbara Aden; they said hello when we passed their tables. “The proceeds from the table rental and the raffle go to the children’s scholarship fund at the center,” Collier reminded us.
Annika Duyvestein gets a balloon from Master Twister Josh Thompson at the Community Center’s Holiday Christmas Bazaar.
“Some kids can’t afford to pay for primary classes or for sports activities here at the center. There are a lot of low income families in the area; these scholarships allow them to participate,” she said. “Counting this year, our total donations for the seven years we’ve been doing this be over $10,000.”
Carver Bolles, Vestal Elementary student, shows off one of his crafts he’s selling at the East Portland Community Center Bazaar to raise funds for his People to People Student Ambassador mission next summer
The special story we found at the Bazaar
When we toured this year’s late November event, one of the 57 vendors we met was a young man named Carver Bolles, a 5th grade Vestal Elementary student.
In a clear, professional voice, Bolles said, “I’m making and selling crafts to raise money to help me go on a ‘People to People Student Ambassador’ program next summer.”
Bolles told us that President Eisenhower started the program “Kids from schools from across the country get to go to other countries to study and learn how their government works.”
We learned that the founding of the program, inaugurated in 1956, was based on President Dwight D. Eisenhower’s belief that ordinary citizens of different nations, if able to communicate directly, would solve their differences and find a way to live in peace. Since 1963, the People to People Student Ambassador Program has taken thousands of students across international borders, to connect with people all over the world.
“I was nominated for the program, and got letters of recommendation from two teachers and an adult. Then I went to an interview, and I was accepted. I’ll go to Italy and Greece next summer.”
Portrait of a future ambassador
We probed to learn more about this enterprising young man, and discovered his favorite subject school subjects are math, science, and not surprisingly, world geography. As a 5th grader he does not receive letter grades yet but he does receive mostly all + which is the same as A’s.
Outside of school, Bolles loves to play football and baseball. He is a very good skier as well.
When we followed up to see how his fundraising is going, Bolles said he’s done pretty well at the two craft fairs at which he’s participated. He’s currently selling raffle tickets for a beautiful Christmas quilt, and has put together a 50-recipe cookie cook book for sale.
With a little help from his mom, Carver Bolles, had this wide range of Christmas items on display at the Bazaar hoping to raise money for his trip.
You can help:
Although he’s working diligently, raising about $4,000 is a big job for a 10-year-old. “I don’t have my own [fundraising] web site set up yet, but I might do that,” Bolles told us.
His mom, Shawna, told us that people can send donation checks, made payable to “People to People”, to Carver Bolles, 311 SE 74th Ave, Portland, Or 97215.
To learn more about the Student Ambassador program, go to www.studentambassadors.org.
© 2007 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News Service
We’ve covered many different kinds of craft-making sessions over the years – but here’s a new one! Take a look …
Kennedy Withers shows us her matchbox-magnet diorama.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
It’s one of the most original craft-making ideas we’ve seen in years: Making Matchbox Diorama Magnets.
When we visit artist Shanon Schollian on Nov. 11, she’s introducing the project to families at the Sellwood Branch Library.
Craft instructor Shanon Schollian gives tips on how to make a “Matchbox Diorama” to families at the Multnomah County Library Sellwood Branch.
“A diorama is a little three-dimensional picture in a box-like frame,” explains Schollian. “When they’re done, they put a magnet on the back so it will stick to the refrigerator.”
Starting with empty small matchboxes, crafters use printed images, buttons, beads, toys, ribbons, and fabrics supplied by Schollian, to make their miniature works of art.
Coming from Vancouver WA to participate in this craft session are Kenndyl, Kennedy, Kenny, Jr. and Kenny Withers
Many of the crafters present stayed and made several dioramas. “I think they’ll make nice Christmas gifts,” a girl says as she shows off her handiwork.
Asked if she originated this craft idea, Schollian replies, “I’ve never seen this before, so I think it is an original idea. What I do is making art out of little things and recycled materials.”
© 2007 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News Service
… GERMS, that is! See how tiny tots are learning critical principles of hygiene that could save their lives. Adults can learn a lesson here, also …
Using rhyming patter, Multnomah County Library Children’s Librarian at Midland Library, Sue Ciesielski, teaches little kids to wash their hands and cover their sneezes.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
With stories about deadly flu strains and killer colds circulating, the Midland Library storytime entitled “Stories About Not Sharing — Germs, that is!” was a good idea.
When we dropped in on November 8, children’s librarian Sue Ciesielski was already sharing storybooks like “Bear Feels Sick”, “Squeaky Clean”, and “Wash Your Hands”.
Ciesielski then led and twice repeated for the kids the rhyme,
Tissue, tissue, where are you?
I feel a sneeze coming through!
I cover my mouth, I cover my nose,
Look out everybody, here it goes …
Aaaaaa Chooooooooo!
Multnomah County Health Department’s Jessica Guernsey Camargo shows how “germs” can transfer, hand to hand, by sharing toys.
The big finale was a demonstration by Jessica Guernsey Camargo, MPH, a program supervisor with Multnomah County Health Department.
“When you share books or toys, here’s what happens,” Guernsey Camargo told the kids as she and Ciesielski toss a cushy toy, laden with invisible ultraviolet powder, back and forth to one another.
Guernsey Camargo turned on an ultraviolet lamp and spots and splotches become visible. She asks, “See what is on my hands?”
“Uck, GERMS!” shouted the kids.
“Tell me what to do,” Guernsey Camargo prompts.
“Go WASH YOUR HANDS!” the kids shout in unison.
Guernsey Camargo “washes” her hands while the kids serenaded her with The Birthday Song.
The best way to know how long to wash your hands, Guernsey Camargo says, is to “sing the [SESAC copyrighted] ‘Happy Birthday to You’ song twice while you’re doing it.”
Because Ciesielski and Guernsey Camargo presented their message in an age-appropriate way, the kids looked like they were having a great time. But perhaps some little ones in East Portland will suffer less from illness – or even from a worse fate – thanks to a very timely, special program.
Jessica Guernsey Camargo gives away free hygiene books to toddlers who attended the presentation.
© 2007 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News Service
Take a look at all the fun kids (and their grown-ups) were having at these inner SE Portland Halloween parties …
After crawling through a graveyard at the Meyer Boy’s & Girl’s Club Haunted House, the kids end up here – at the at the Mummy’s crypt.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
While the door-to-door tradition of neighborhood trick-or-treating is still in favor, many families are opting for organized events. We visited two parties on October 31 in inner SE Portland.
Fred G. Meyer Memorial Boys & Girls Club
Our first stop was in Westmoreland to see the final performances of the Haunted House at the Fred G. Meyer Memorial Boy’s & Girl’s Club.
“This Haunted House supports the Oregon Food Bank,” said “Deviled Egg” and event spokesperson, Naomi Head.
During the three day run, Head said, the event attracted about 600 kids. “We’ve filled most of an office with donated food that the kids brought as their admission to the Haunted House.”
Naomi Head (a Deviled Egg) sits with a small sample of the donated food collected during the Fred G. Meyer Memorial Boys & Girls Club Haunted House.
The Haunted House was built into the large gym, and featured a haunted corn maze, a man-eating spider, a graveyard – including a pile of dead bodies to crawl through – and finally, the Mummy’s Crypt. Older kids volunteered to dress in costume and operate special effects.
Even the bravest kids were startled during their trip through the Haunted House. “Aaah, it wasn’t that scary,” commented “cowboy” Jimmie Lee after exiting the darkened room. His little sister, Alisha, fighting back tears, apparently disagreed – we hope she didn’t have bad dreams.
Woodstock Community Center Halloween Party
Outside the Woodstock Community Center, Maizie Logee and Ella Huntzinger find the spooky decorations fun, not scary.
The volunteers who produce the Woodstock Family Picnic decided to do “a little something” for Halloween at the community center. The event turned out to be a hit with neighbors.
“Welcome to our first-ever Halloween party at the Woodstock Community Center,” Ruthann Bedenkop greeted us. She was flanked by the famous fearsome pirate Capt. Jack Sparrow (aka Mike Rocheleau). “It’s sponsored by the Woodstock Neighborhood Association and Woodstock Community Business Association.”
Organizer Ruthann “First Mate” Bedenkop and Capt. Jack Sparrow (aka Mike Rocheleau) welcome guests to the Woodstock Halloween Party.
Because it was their first year, Bedenkop said they expected a low turnout. “We’d prepared 75 gift bags – they were gone before the time the event was scheduled to open.”
The volunteers planned to host about 150 guests throughout the evening, but they’d already surpassed that number by 20 guests when we visited early in the event.
Witches (they assure us they are good witches) Maile and Sylvie Baures share a Halloween moment with friends Genevieve and Susan Rosenkranz.
These kids say they’re loving the crafts at the Woodstock Halloween Party.
Thanks to the diligent work of volunteers who kept the snack counter stocked, nearly about 300 guests were treated to cheese and crackers, cookies and apple slices with “swamp sludge” (caramel) dipping sauce. In total, about 30 volunteers kept the event running smoothly.
During the late afternoon, the Woodstock Branch Library hosted “Story Time”. Upstairs, kids played simple games and won prizes; the basement craft room was packed with youngsters making masks, wands and other spooky-themed crafts.
In addition to financially supporting the event, businesses along Woodstock Boulevard participated by offering trick-or-treating at their shops.
After playing games at the party, the Murray family, from Woodstock, pause for a family portrait.
“We like showcasing our Community Center,” said Bedenkop. “We have a spring open house, and thought it would be nice to have something in the fall. Thanks to our volunteers, and our neighbors, this event has been incredibly successful.”
© 2007 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News Service
See why organizers produced this health-promoting event …
Event exhibitor Katrina Kellmer, with Gluten Intolerant Group, spends a moment with Carolyn Fairfield, Community Health Fair organizer.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Medical professionals, health and fitness educators, and representatives of health-related businesses and organizations came to share ideas about developing a healthy mind, body, and spirit on October 20.
“We’re holding this event,” said organizer Carolyn Fairfield, “to make people aware of their health, so they take care of their body. There is wisdom on one of my favorite sayings: ‘Take care of your health; if you don’t, where will you live?'”
Steevie Weevie the Clown turns twisted, inflated latex to smiles on kids faces – as only he can!
Outside the location, Parkrose United Methodist Church, the Oregon Lions Club Mobile Health Screening Unit was on hand to provide free visual acuity, glaucoma, blood pressure, hearing, and diabetes screenings.
The event also featured free healthy snacks, activities for children, and face painting and balloon twisting by Stevie Weevie the Clown.
© 2007 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News Service
Discover how a soup- (not wine) tasting is paired up with a dinner and auctions in support of this organization that helps folks get off welfare by preparing them for good jobs …
Richard Kiely, past SE Works board member and owner of Home Run Graphics, tastes the Apple Cheddar Cheese Soup (winner of a Celebrity’s Choice Award) made by Patty Park of Portland Specialty Banking Co., at the organization’s 10th Annual Celebration and 7th annual Soup Cook-off event.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
For a decade, an organization called SE Works has been strengthening the economic health and well being of the diverse southeast Portland community by connecting between job seekers with employers.
Their efforts have been successful: In the last ten years, the organization has helped more than 10,000 people get living-wage jobs by providing them with targeted training programs.
Sarah Keeney of Benson Shed Garden Café offers a taste of her Candied Yam Bisque – as does Heather Ficht, Worksystems Inc., with her Hungarian Mushroom Soup (later named the Golden Ladle Winner) – to Portland City Commissioner Sam Adams.
The celebrities on hand to decide the Celebrities’ Choice Award Soup Cook-off Award are Portland City Commissioner Sam Adams, Kerry DeBuse of Genoa, Multnomah County Chair Ted Wheeler, and David Machado of Vindalho.
Again celebrating with soup
On October 19th, 285 guests attended “Recipes for Success: SE Works’ Ten Year Celebration, Soup Cook-Off, and Auction”.
The gala featured their seventh-annual soup-tasting competition. Guests voted for their favorite soups with dollar bills. The “Hungarian Mushroom Soup” cooked up by Heather Ficht, of Worksystems, Inc., earned the most donations, and was given the 2007 Golden Ladle Award.
John Jeska, buying balloons from Rekita Barron. Each balloon contains a gift certificate to an area restaurant.
SE Works Board Chair Denise Walton and Executive Director Heidi Soderberg get the evening’s formal program underway.
Celebrity judges, including Multnomah County Chair Ted Wheeler, Portland City Commissioner Sam Adams, Kerry DeBuse of Genoa, and David Machado of Vindalho, voted for their favorites. The judging ended in a three-way tie: Laura Bock, Job Developers Network; Pam Butterworth, SE Works; and Patty Park of Portland Specialty Baking each earned the Celebrities’ Choice Award.
Between tastes, guests bid on a wide array of silent auction items featured on three tables. Master of Ceremonies David F. Ashton, of East PDX News, whipped up excitement as the silent auctions closed and guided guests through the evening’s activities.
The soup chefs line up as the “cream of the crop” winning entries are about to be awarded for the “Recipes for Success Soup Cook-off”.
The Celebrities’ Choice Award ended in a three-way tie! The co-winners are soup chefs Pam Butterworth of SE Works, Patty Park of Portland Specialty Baking, and Laura Bock of the Job Developers Network.
Winner of the 2007 Golden Ladle Award – chosen by a vote of attendees – goes to Heather Ficht from Worksystems, Inc. The award is presented by SE Works Executive Director Heidi Soderberg as well as staff member (and this year’s Soup Chef Host) Gwen Nothwang.
Then, while guests enjoyed a full-course Pacific salmon dinner, SE Works clients shared their success stories.
Master auctioneer Mitch Lambley stepped up and got the guests to open their checkbooks and bid on outstanding live auction packages. In all, $41,000 was raised to support SE Works’ programs.
David F. Ashton, Master of Ceremonies for the event pauses between closing the silent auctions. (Sue Eastman photo) Auctioneer Mitch Lambley gets a good price for another outstanding prize package during the live auction.
A sell-out crowd of nearly 300 showed up for the 10th Anniversary Celebration and Recipes for Success Soup Cook-off held in Southeast Portland on October 19.
Sponsors for the event included: ON Semiconductor; PCC Structurals; Portland Development Commission; Bank of the West; CMTS, Inc.; Gunderson, Inc.; IITR Truck School; Kraft Foods/Nabisco; Lumber Products; Pacific Natural Foods; Pam Olson Farmers Insurance Agency; Portland Community College; Vancouver Iron & Steel, Inc.; Alotto Gelato; Cascade Medical School; and Kern & Thompson, LLC.
© 2007 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News Service
From Lents, to the East Portland Community Center and then the Parkrose Ghost Town – you’ll enjoy the many photos of kids (and adults) having pre-Halloween fun …
This is where we ended our tour – at the Parkrose Haunted Ghost Town at Rossi Farms.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Saturday, October 27 was the big day for big Harvest and Halloween festivals across outer East Portland. We love to see grown-ups and kids having fun together. Come along and join our Spooky Tour!
Lents Community Harvest Festival
These two gals love showing off their spiders at the Community Harvest Festival in Lents.
Our first stop is in the recreation room of Pilgrim Lutheran Church in Lents.
“Welcome to our Community Harvest Festival,” says organizer Amie Diffenauer with ROSE Community Development.
At the Lents Harvest Festival are organizers Alys Allwardt; and, Amie Diffenauer with ROSE Community Development.
Around the room, we see families enjoying a grilled hamburger lunch and snacks, playing games and making crafts.
“This year our theme is around building community,” Diffenauer tells us. “We’re trying to get the community out to learn more about the services available here in Lents. And, we’re getting people to meet one another.”
Crafts engross these kids at the Harvest Festival.
East Portland Community Harvest Festival
Coming all the way to the East Portland Community Center from Clackamas is Antoinette and Kephron Alexander. They are standing in front of mom, Nicole and the family’s makeup artist (and dad), Cliff Alexander.
Next, we head to the East Portland Community Center to check in on their event. When we arrive, the place is hopping with creatures of all descriptions.
We’re welcomed by the center’s manager, Abbe MacFarlane. “This is our tenth annual Harvest Festival. It’s put on in cooperation with the Montavilla Community Center.”
Tossing her cookies, this little gal tries to win a prize.
Hunter Osborn is having is face painted by Heather Rubicam as his sister, Olivia Osborn, checks out makeup job.
In one room, we find Multnomah County Library folks on hand for scary story-time readings.
The craft room is packed with kids. Other kids are getting temporary tattoos and having their faces painted. A game room is set up for kids 4 and under; the gym has the games for the older children.
Christian and Angelina Deo are having fun in the Craft Room, backed up by Vickie Deo and Janet Huntley.
“We’re expecting about 1,000,” says MacFarlane “This is a great alternative to kids going out at night. Many parents aren’t really interested in taking their kids out trick-or-treating after dark. This gives them the chance to have fun and wear their costumes in a safe and clean place.”
Parkrose Haunted Ghost Town
The “All-Fright Dancers” warm of for their performances before hundreds of folks who visit the Haunted Ghost Town at Rossi Farms.
We’re a bit saddened to discover that a great Halloween tradition ending when we see the “Final Year” signs posted by the Parkrose Haunted Ghost Town entrance on the Rossi Farms property.
Long time supporter Craig Flynn, with his daughter Kelly, get ready for their next-to-the-last evening at the Haunted Ghost Town.
“It must be around nine years ago when we started it,” reminisces Craig Flynn, one of the original and sustaining volunteers behind the event. “I’ve been helping ever since. I’m moving away, and I don’t know of Joe [Rossi] will ever find anyone else who will put in the effort.”
What Flynn says he enjoys the most is that they’ve added to the attraction “a little here and there every year. We didn’t completely change the design this year. But, we did add some tunnels in the back of the barn.”
Teri Mannen is doing the face make up for big Roger Sweisberger – turning him into the Parkrose Werewolf Cowboy.
As we walk around, just before opening time, we see characters putting on makeup and putting on their costumes. In addition to students from Parkrose High School, 15 to 20 adults volunteer at the event.
Event supports Parkrose High Senior All-night Party
In the corn maze, we meet up with the chair of the Haunted Ghost Town committee, Barbara Snoozy – before she gets into her costume.
Volunteers Vivian Lanegan, Deanne Volk and Barbara Snoozy get ready to haunt the Ghost Town for another evening.
“I’ve been a volunteer on this project for five years,” Snoozy says. This event is the major fundraiser for the Parkrose High School Senior All-night Party.”
Their first weekend was a little damp, reports Snoozy. “Actually, it was very wet. The second weekend looks great. We have clear weather, and a full moon. We’re ready to go. We should have between 500 and 800 visitors per night.”
Their motto is “Touch nothing, and nothing will harm you.” Those who don’t heed this advice might need the services of this fellow: Mr. Undertaken.
Is she a good witch or a bad witch? We didn’t stick around to find out.
In the past, Snoozy explains, Rossi Farm employees did a lot of the work. “This year, parents pitched in and we did it all ourselves with the help of Craig Flynn. It was tough. We didn’t realize that we weren’t good at building a corn maze – but we learned the hard way.”
Due to the changes of at the farm – and the cost of buying the corn – this will likely be the final year of the event Snoozy says. “The corn is a huge expense. It was grown specifically for this event.”
Is all the work they put in worth the effort? “It is really fun,” admits Snoozy. “I’ll miss doing it – but I will have October back.”
“Who’s cheatn’ at cards, you ask? We all of are, of course!”
© 2007 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News Service
With balls, beanbags and clubs in hand, discover why hundreds of jugglers – some of them trekking half way around the globe – say they gather just to throw things around …
Juggling like a pro is 9-year-old Duncan Silversides.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
“You think you’ve had problems in an airport?” asks Ben, owner of the world-famous juggling store, Serious Juggling, as he sets up his booth in the gym at Reed College.
“Try getting past security, packing a set of these,” Ben says with a mock-serious wicked grin, as he holds a set of deadly-looking, but finely-balanced, juggling scimitars.
A non-competitive gathering
We’re welcomed to the event on September 29 by Albyn Jones, one of the organizers of the Portland Juggling Festival.
“Although we took last year off, otherwise we’ve been holding it annually for the last fifteen years,” he tells us.
This is a non-competitive festival, Jones says. “Some professional jugglers worry someone stealing their tricks and routines. But, perhaps only 30 of our 300 folks are professionals.”
Demonstrating his skill with the clubs is Woodinville, Washington’s Brien McCrea.
World-class event
Portland Juggling Festival, we learn, is the largest such regional festival in the world.
“Jugglers from across the United States, and performers from Europe, Japan, and Canada come to hang out and, well – juggle,” says Jones. “We get together for the camaraderie. And, we offer a lot of workshops, showing how to do new tricks.”
As Jones explains it, the “tricks” are unique patterns and sequences which jugglers perfect, to catch and re-launch multiple items.
Jugglers of all ages
Not all jugglers are men; Chao-Ching Wu and Carol Harvey say they came down to the three-day festival from Bothell, WA.
“I admired others who juggled, and wanted to admire myself – so here I am!” Wu says.
These girls just want to have fun: Chao-Ching Wu and Carol Harvey say they “love their juggling toys”.
“It’s about everyone having fun with their toys. People, of every age, come together with because of their toys,” explains Harvey, as she and Wu continue “passing clubs” between them. “I’ve been doing it for five years.”
We watch in amazement as 9-year-old Duncan Silversides, from Victoria, BC, juggles three – then four – balls, like a pro.
Says juggling is a social activity
Most jugglers with whom we speak say they enjoy the “social aspects” of their juggling avocation.
Leader of a large Bothell, WA juggling club, Tom Gaines, is “passing clubs” with his juggling buddy, Don Reinhardt.
“For me, the attraction is social,” confirms Jones. “I do like juggling as an activity for myself; I’ll stand alone in my living room and juggle. But it is really fun to juggle with other people.”
Tom Gaines, leader of the Bothell, WA, “Juggle for Fun” club says their 25 member group (many of them at the festival) is sponsored by their city’s parks and recreation department. “We get together every week to enjoy juggling, and teach the art to folks in our community.”
Eight-year old Maya Leshikar practices riding the unicycle.
We ask Gaines to reveal the secret of juggling. “Being willing to pick up the balls after you drop them, and try again,” he advises with a knowing smile.
By the time we leave, airspace in the Reed College gym is cluttered with balls, beanbags, rings, clubs, and knives – almost any item one can catch, then throw.
Although early in the morning, the Reed College gym is a juggling jungle.
Most of practitioners demonstrate professional proficiency and perform with great dexterity. But we see – even the best of them – occasionally stoop over, pick ’em up, and try again.
© 2007 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News Service
You don’t have to travel down to the convention center or Jantzen Beach for great spooky attractions … check out these fun, family events …
Parkrose Haunted Ghost Town
The The Haunted Ghost Town is open Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings, October 26, 27 and 28.
This production features scary, realistic sets and scores of costumed and made-up actors. The Haunted Ghost Town will again feature ghosts of the Wild West, dancing ghouls, the cornstalk maze, haunted mine and lots of other surprises.
Their motto is, “Don’t touch anything, and usually, nothing will touch you!” While there are hair-raising scares around every corner, the cast and crew run a toned-down version of the event during the first half-hour, starting at 6:00 p.m.
To help families make an evening of it, refreshments are plentiful, and inexpensively priced. Just $9 for adults and $5 for kids under 12. Proceeds go to the Parkrose High School Senior All-night Party.
It runs from 6:00 p.m. until 9:30 p.m. at Rossi Farms, 3839 NE 122nd Ave., just south of NE Shaver St. “David Recommended”
The Scary Magic Show
The Scary Magic Show presents two performances on Sunday, October 28 at 1 and 5 p.m.
Really scary? No, not at all!
Actually, this is a fun, family magic show with a Halloween theme.
Before the stage shows, be amazed as magicians surprise and delight you with magic close up, under your nose!
Then, sit back, and see award-winning magicians from the Society of American Magicians Assembly #59 – live on stage – present spooky, fun and crazy magic!
In addition to yours truly you’ll see Tom Cramer, Eartha the Ecological Clown, Tom Waldrop, 2007 Desmond Competition award winner Bob Eaton, and illusions by international entertainer, Mark Bentheimer and Company.
Refreshment will be available for purchase. It’s all to benefit the Rose City Park Neighborhood Association and SAM #59.
Tickets will be available at the door; they are just $20 for the WHOLE FAMILY; $7 for adults and $5 for kids. It is at the Friendship Masonic Lodge, NE 57th & Sandy Blvd. For pre-event tickets, or more information, call (503) 493-8319. “David Recommended”
© 2007 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News Service
hen the parking lot at SE 122nd Avenue and Division Street fills up with classic, show, and specialty vehicles, on a crisp Sunday afternoon – people come from miles around to check out this great, low-key car show …
Bill Dayton takes a look at Ken Krolikoski’s classic 1932 Packard.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Lots of folks come to the “End of Summer Cruise-in” in the parking lot of Bill Dayton’s Pizza Baron on SE 122nd Avenue at SE Division Street to gawk at the cool classics, hot rods, and other specialty vehicles. We like hearing the owners talk about their rides!
10th annual event
“It’s put on every year by the Chrysler RT Club,” says organizer Dr. David Lee. “The best part is looking to see what everybody has done with their cars. These people put a lot of the time, talent, and money into their cars.”
Lee tells us that this event, now in its tenth year, draws auto enthusiasts from as far away as Hillsboro and Longview, WA. “It’s all about nice cars and good pizza.”
Classic cars; classy owners
We find Pizza Baron owner Bill Dayton talking with Ken Krolikoski about his slick-looking 1932 Packard.
“There are probably about ten of these left,” comments Krolikoski. “I wanted to find a classic, open car. But, I found all the ‘good’ ones are taken. I finally paid the price. It wasn’t perfect. Because they’re scarce, you can expect to put in some work to bring it back [into showroom condition]. It’s got 44,000 miles on it.”
“How does it drive?” we ask.
“Like a 1932 car!” Krolikoski says.
The Aragons show off their 1935 Dodge.
The car’s paint job attracts us to a beautifully modified ’35 Dodge belonging to Anthony and Leona Aragon.
“It’s been chopped, and has late model suspension.” Anthony reports. “It’s got a 350 Chevy engine. The project has taken a couple of years.”
He tells us that the best part about this car is that it is very drivable. “It is fun to drive. We like it when people smile, wave, and give you a thumbs-up. We can cruise down the road in it. But no, we don’t go shopping with it – it’s never left unattended in a parking lot.”
Rows of cars, modern to classics, attract car buffs, and people who enjoy looking at cool cars.
© 2007 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News Service
