Did you know the 100-year old Rossi Farm still grows and sells their crops within the City of Portland? Click “MORE” below and see the story below about how this family also helps to raise good citizens ‚Ķ
The “Rossi Posse” wants to see YOU at this year’s Barn Bash on July 8!
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
The 100-year-old working farm, across the street from Parkrose High, grows more than crops. It also supports programs to grow kids into good citizen adults by providing youngsters with wholesome activities.
Because funds for student activities have dwindled over the years, Joe Rossi–third-generation farmer of Rossi Farms–started the non-profit Parkrose Youth Activities Fund.
Holding an annual “Barn Bash” is the way Rossi, as well as his father, Aldo Rossi, and eleven other sponsoring businesses raise money for the Youth Activities Fund each year. Last year’s Barn Bash generated $17,000 for the fund.
Chicken dinner for 2,000
Talk to any of the 1,700 guests who came last year, and you’ll hear it’s the best party in East Portland. The Parkrose Lions Club’s secret-recipe barbecued chicken is so hot, tender and tasty that this all-you-can-eat feast brings back folks year after year. “We’re hoping for 2,000 guests this year,” Rossi says.
During the second weekend in July, in the height of their growing season, the Rossi Farm’s public produce store closes down for four days to get ready for the Barn Bash.
The store is transformed into a western dance hall featuring “The Last Rodeo Band” and Widmer Brothers no-host beer garden; the back lot into a wild-west live action show set; and most of the parking lot into a huge, tented outdoor dining area.
Later in the evening, guests sit on hay bales and enjoy the premi?®re of a new film by written, directed and starring Parkrose High students, “The New Legend of Nick Rose” in the outdoor theater.
Don’t miss the big event of the summer season in outer East Portland!
9th Annual Rossi Barn Bash
July 8, 2006; 6 pm – Midnight ~ Dinner served between 6 – 8 p.m.
at Rossi Farms; 3839 NE 122nd Ave., Portland OR 97230
Benefits non-profit Parkrose Youth Activities League
This event includes:
+ All-you-can-eat Parkrose Lions Chicken BBQ Dinner with all the fixin’s
+ Wild West live action show;
+ Live country music featuring The Last Rodeo Band;
+ No-host beer and wine, featuring Widmer Bros. brew;
+ Premi?®re of a new film by Parkrose High School students.
Important: This event is for adults 21 years and older
Cost: Just $12 per person.
© 2006 David F. Ashton ~ East PDX News
See the man for whom the David Douglas High School’s Horner Performing Arts Center was named oompah out tunes, playing a classic Sousaphone ‚Ķ
Starting the evening’s program, backed up by the East County Symphony Orchestra, Mary Lou Cosby’s professional and cultured voice sings the National Anthem.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Hundreds filed into David Douglass High School’s Horner Performing Arts Center on June 9 to hear the East County Symphony Orchestra’s Spring Concert.
The nearly sold-out house on June 9 was treated to marches, romantic tunes, country melodies, selections from “My Fair Lady”, swing music and even spirituals.
The man behind the building
What many people don’t know is that the individual for whom the theater is named plays each concert, sitting in the back row of the band!
Dr. Howard Horner toots out the bass line playing the Sousaphone at the summer concert of the East County Symphony Orchestra
Dr. Howard Horner was David Douglas High School’s first Principal. The respected educator went on to become the Superintendent of the district before retiring. Horner is credited with establishing the district’s conservative financial approach ‚Äì one that has allowed it to survive the lean funding years, without cutting programs.
A firm believer in arts education, Horner wanted to see the school have a first-class performing arts center. After it was constructed, and the school district’s officers named it after Horner.
At a break in the concert, we asked Horner why he was sitting in the back row of the orchestra. “I love to play the Sousaphone, and this is where we sit! I like playing this kind of music. And, I keep coming back because they tolerate me!”
Horner says he’s been involved on the orchestra since its inception “That’s back quite a number of years. It was founded by Harold Webber 26 years ago. Our current director, Jack Mahoney, is excellent. He’s a fine person, and very good with music and people.”
While the orchestra is comprised mainly of senior-citizen musicians, Horner told us they also have young people playing specialty instruments. “But, one of our clarinet players is 92 years old; many of us are on the high side of 70. This is a good opportunity for seniors to play and enjoy music.”
Be watching for the Winter Concert of this fine East Portland musical organization.
© 2006 David F. Ashton ~ East PDX News
Don’t miss this great event on Saturday! See hundreds of specialty and antique vehicles; enjoy the car “Blow Up” contest; watch high-speed RC car racing; eat great food; and let the kids play in a supervised play area.
Not bad for $1 buck, eh?
Event chair Gail Bash, PBF president Gordon Boorse, and key event sponsor Rex Hollingsworth stand with the new Rose Festival Cruise-in trailer.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Six years ago, members of the Parkrose Business Association decided they needed a way to raise funds to provide scholarships for Parkrose High School seniors.
Gail Bash, the Cruise-in’s founder, gives a bouquet to Marsha Lee, the “Pit Boss” for the event. “We call Marsha the ‘pit bull’“, Bash joked.
Board member Gail Bash of Lucky Corp. came hatched the idea of holding a “cruise-in” to raise money. After some research among car clubs, Craig Mendenhall of American SaniCan proposed the late-June date.
Soon, the association’s board received Rose Festival affiliation (the only such in Portland east of 82nd Ave.). By the time their 5th Annual Rose Festival Cruise-in, held on June 24, became history, Portland Business Foundation (PBF), the non-profit arm of the business club, had raised and awarded a cumulative $17,500 in scholarships over the years.
22 Students compete for scholarship
Sarah Lange had to leave the meeting early, but not before getting her scholarship check from Marsha Lee. (Amy Salvador/PBA Photo)
Bob & Mary Brown, of Bob Brown Tires, presenting a scholarship check to Parkrose High School senior Yuliya Mikhaylov.
Alison Stoll of Central Northeast Neighbors awards a $1,000 scholarship to Angelyn Bilbrew.
Marsha Lee of Copy Express helps to further Kelli Herman’s education with an $1,000 award.
Parkrose High School seniors submit applications, and then are interviewed by members of the PBF’s committee. “With 22 great applicants,” commented Alison Stoll of Central Northeast Neighbors, “it is difficult to select only four students who will each get a $1,000 scholarship.”
PBF president, Gordon Boorse, recounts the history and promotes the upcoming June 24 Cruise-in to a packed house at the Parkrose Business Association meeting at Steamers Restaurant on June 15.
At their June meeting, PBF president, Gordon Boorse, Compaction & Recycling Equipment, told the group, “We’re certainly not the largest business association in the area. But, thanks to our many members who volunteer their time and resources, we’re able to help fund the continuing education of worthy students.”
Also at the meeting, event chair Gail Bash thanked the many sponsors and volunteers of this year’s successful Rose Festival Cruise-in. “We especially honor Rex Hollingsworth, our major event sponsor. Not only did he underwrite the event, he also donated a large trailer, as well as a new barbeque for our raffle, and also provided manpower for set-up and take-down.”
5th Annual Rose Festival Cruise-in
June 24 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
on the grounds of Parkrose High School Community Center,
12003 NE Shaver, just west of NE 122nd Avenue.
Come see the Parkrose High grassy lawn filled with
Hotrods – Classic Import Cars
Motorcycles – Special Interest Vehicles
Trucks – Low Riders
… And much more
Wait! There’s more ‚Ķ
In addition to the hundreds of cars on display, vying for trophies in over fifty categories, you’ll find food booths (including wonderful offerings from Chef Edgar of Steamers Restaurant), booths showcasing community services and PBA members’ wares and services.
The Parkrose Business Association meets the third Thursday every month at Steamers Restaurant, 8030 NE Sandy Blvd. (east of NE 82nd Ave.); NO reservations required. Info: www.parkrosebusiness.org.
© 2006 David F. Ashton ~ East PDX News Click Here to read more East Portland News
Hey, look! If you missed the Gateway Fun-O-Rama Parade and Fair – this article is short – but boy-o-boy, do we have the photos …
Photo Story by David F. Ashton
Portland Police Officer Mike Gallagher pulling in with the Cadet trailer loaded with bike helmets.
On the Fun-O-Rama Parade reviewing stand, ready to announce the passing parade, are Bianca Gille, St. Therese; James Luu, Parkrose High School; Michael Taylor, Superintendent, Parkrose School District; Fred Sanchez, GABA and Realty Brokers at 111th Square; Barbara Rommel, Superintendent, David Douglas Schools; Barbara Ho, David Douglas high school.
The Woodland Wonders unicyclists always are a hit on the parade route.
The Parkrose Broncos Marching band gets everyone’s feet tapping.
It wouldn’t be a Fun-O-Rama Parade without the antics of the Keystone Cops.
Multnomah County Commissioner Lonnie Roberts rides in the parade.
Rose Festival Queens are part of the Fun-O-Rama Parade Festivities. [Use Parkrose and DDHS Queens, create side/side image in PS]
Portland Police Bureau Training Division Officer Garth Edwards, Portland Police Bureau, pipes while the Color Guard raises the flag that signals the start of the Fun-O-Rama Fair at Realty Brokers’ 111th Square.
Callie Rousch, LMT, NCTMB gave us a really GREAT chair massage at the Fun-O-Rama Fair! Contact her at (503) 860-4175 for more information.
Krysia Woods getting a balloon sculpture made by Steevie Weevie, the Clown Prince of Gateway. “He’s really nice, and funny,” she commented.
Jeffrey Kamper is getting fitted for a new bike helmet by Portland Police Cadets Leanna Heasley and Keeden Mollenhour.
To help support the activities of their program, East Precinct Portland Police Cadets served up hot dog lunches at the Fun-O-Rama Fair.
Making crafts are Traci and Nicholas Shaffer, at the Portland Parks and Recreation booth.
“Arresting” Ashley Fox is Portland Police Cadet Heather Deibert. Ashley’s dad, Bill, told us, “We come every year! For the last 23 years, it’s something we look forward to!”
Perennial Gateway booster, Fred Sanchez, standing next to Dave Manning, said of Gateway’s Citizen of the Year, “Father Jack Mosbrucker has been instrumental in bringing together all parts of our community.”
Oregon State Representative Jeff Merkley presents awards to for entries into the Fun-O-Rama parade.
As part of the entertainment, Bianca Gille, student body president of St. Therese, beautifully sang a couple of songs.
Demonstrating the lively art of street break dancing is Melissa Spivally.
Both businesses and community groups exhibited at the Fair. Here’s Jason Goodwill, telling people about his Kiwanis group.
Lexie and JJ, of Choi’s Martial Arts Academy, demonstrate how to break a solid board with just your hand.
Ronald McDonald shows up for some silly fun.
Perhaps we’ll see you at the 2007 Gateway Fun-O-Rama Parade and Fair next May!
© 2006 David F. Ashton ~ East PDX News
See how his brother ‚Äì one of the original Portland rock group, The Kingsmen — follows his passion, and turns it into a rockin’ good time ‚Ķ
Sorry we don’t have a PodCast running here on our website yet, but if we did you could hear the great sounds as they were laid down by the Dennis Mitchell Band, photographed here at the New Copper Penny in Lents a few weeks ago.
Story and photo by David F. Ashton
When he was young, Dennis Mitchell was known has the “little brother” of Mike Mitchell, lead guitar player of The Kingsmen (of Louie, Louie fame).
“We’ve been playing together, on and off for years,” Dennis told us before a gig at the Pantheon Ballroom at Lent’s NCP in late April. “I guess rock rhythms run in the family.”
Folks into the local music scene will perhaps remember that Dennis had a band called “No Ties” in the 1980s. He took time off music to invest in and manage real estate, but “music just calls to me.”
The band also rocked out on May 21 at the Crystal Ballroom as part of a successful benefit for ’60s and ’70s light show guru Gary Ewing.
Check ’em out at www.dennismetichellband.com.
© 2006 David F. Ashton ~ East PDX News
See how ‚Äì and why ‚Äì the Leach Botanical Garden’s Children’s Nature Fair “hooks” kids on learning about nature ‚Ķ
David Christenson with little Marcella and Vincent being checked in by volunteer Ann Kracke. “It is a beautiful day,” David told us. “This is our first time coming out to the Botanical Garden. It is nearby, so we thought we’d come to see the Children’s Nature Fair. They’ll see insects, bugs and animals. It is good for them to learn more about our world ‚Äì this gives them a hand-on experience.”
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
How can Mother Nature possibly compete with cable-TV and X-Box?
“We doing it by holding an annual Children’s Nature Fair,” said Katie Goodwin, spokesperson for Leach Botanical Garden.
Captivating the kids by spinning a tale about a spider is Ann Found, a professional storyteller, and Leach’s volunteer coordinator.
“We’ve been doing this for several years,” she added, “We have crafts of all kinds; making bookmarks using pressed flowers, leaf rubbings, and sun prints, and making necklaces and planting plants. We have slug races. And, our volunteer coordinator is a professional storyteller. Kids say she’s better than movies!”
Using the “rubbing” technique to make a greeting card with a dog on it is third-grader Tori Phillips, with a little help from her mom, Vickie.
150 attend this growing fair
This event has grown over the years, Goodwin remarked. More than 20 volunteers help with the crafts, and take families on tours around the garden property.
Why do this?
“Children are the future,” Goodwin extolled. “The future depends on how we take care of our environment; that which is around us. We hope we help the young generation gain an appreciation for what is here now, so they’ll maintain this garden, and the planet, in the future.”
Her hopes are already being met. While visiting the fair, we talked with parents, who, as children, attended their first Nature Fairs years ago – and are now returning to Leach Gardens with their own kids.
Leach Botanical Garden is located on SE 122nd Avenue just south of Foster Road, and is open most days.
© 2006 David F. Ashton ~ East PDX News
See why “the fair that wouldn’t die” ‚Äì even though Multnomah County commissioners cut funding and dropped their support of this great tradition years ago ‚Ķ
With the help of children from her audience, Mother Goose brings barnyard magic to the Multnomah County Fair.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Locating Multnomah County Fair at Portland Meadows for the past two years allowed organizers to hold the event in late summer. But, somehow, it never had the “fair-like” atmosphere of its longtime location, the Expo Center–or of its immediately previous home, Oaks Amusement Park.
“Memorial Day was the only weekend we could use Oaks Amusement Park,” Lillian Adams, an organizer with Friends of Multnomah County Fair. “We wish we’d had better weather, but here, we have the setting of a real fair. Our volunteers have done so much to keep the fair going.”
Cooking up big, flavorful burritos is Martin Ochoa.
The fair that wouldn’t die
This year’s edition celebrates the county fair’s 100-year history. But if it weren’t for the volunteers who make up Friends of Multnomah County Fair, it would have blinked out of existence years ago.
“It’s hard to believe,” Adams said with a hint of frustration in her voice, “that the largest and most prosperous county in Oregon refuses to sustain 4-H, nor a county fair. Commissioner Lonnie Roberts has always supported us. Perhaps the new County Chair, Ted Wheeler, will see the value in preserving this great educational and recreational tradition for our young people.”
Outer East Portland backyard gardener Duane Duvall picked up 19 First Place Awards, including this pink Oriental Poppy; judged Best Perennial and Best of Show. Did he beat gardening maven Larry Smith? “No one beats Larry Smith,” Duvall chuckled
Top quality exhibits abundant
Although the fair’s return to Oaks Park wasn’t well promoted, other than in a front-page story on East PDX News and in The BEE, the exhibit hall was filled with quality entries, ranging from baking to sewing arts, photography ‚Äì and yes, even garden entries.
Kids, whose families who braved the weather in the first two days of the three-day fair, enjoyed Humphrey’s Barnyard Frolics–featuring the magic of Mother Goose, hands-on action exhibits like cow milking, and making “Mud Baby” crafts.
Grand Sweepstakes winner in the First Annual Oregon Fryer Commission’s “Big Cluck Cook-off” were Tim and Rosie Wallace.
Chicken cooking competition draws hundreds
A new feature this year was the “Big Cluck Cookoff”, hosted by KXL radio’s “Mr. Barbeque”, Bruce Bjorkman. “Chicken is one of the meats that sometimes intimidate people when they think about cooking on the grill. Today, we showed that people, who have never been in a cook-off, can do it.”
A few raindrops didn’t keep families from enjoying the rides at Oaks Park.
Clearning weather boosts late attendance
On Saturday, May 27th, the opening day of the three-day fair, a stormy sky delivered moisture–ranging from a gentle mist to wind-blown pelting rain throughout the fair’s first afternoon. But, Oregonians dressed weather-appropriately, and got their thrills on many of the amusement rides at the park anyway.
The event faired better on Sunday with cool weather under heavily overcast skies. By Memorial Day, the sun came out – and so did families.
SE Portland glass artist Scott Hogan, with Jess Hogan Designs, demonstrates creating a bead made used in jewelry making for people at the fair.
Will there be a Multnomah County Fair next year?
“The fair and 4-H is important for our youth. It gives them something positive in which to channel their energy,” Adams stated. “I hope citizens will let their County Commissioners know they want to support these programs.”
© 2006 David F. Ashton ~ East PDX News ~ Published May 29, 2006
See what happens when 35 restaurants lay out their best food, great bands play and offer items to bid …
Nancy Chapin checks in some of the 150 party goers to “Hawthorne: Party On” at Chelsea Ballroom.
There was no shortage of great food at the Hawthorne Business Association’s May 12 event.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
The second-story Chelsea Ballroom started filling up promptly as the doors opened for the first-ever at “Hawthorne: Party On” event on May 12.
“We love our neighborhood and wanted to say ‘thank you’ to them,” is how organizer Reese Prouty, chair of the Hawthorne Boulevard Business Association explained it to us. “This is about thanking our neighbors, and at the same time, helps business owners get to know more people in the boulevard.
Greeting neighbors at “Hawthorne: Party On” are organizer Reese Prouty and Michele’s Chirgwin of Michelle’s Chocolate Truffles on SE Hawthorne at 22nd Ave.
Prouty, the owner of Eight Women, a clothing boutique at SE 36th Ave and Hawthorne, told us four bands played, the headliner being Robbie Laws, of PDX Blues Festival fame. “He’s opened up a shop on Hawthorne and teaches guitar lessons ‚Äì and we got him to play!”
Lining the walls of the ballroom were all kinds of food, prepared and presented by 35 restaurants along the boulevard.
Proprietor Steve Brown of Madison’s Grill, and his catering manager, Kelly Walsh (order?) show off their espresso brownies. They shooed away young children, and remarked, “Their parents would never forgive us if we let the kids eat that much caffeine!”For example, Steve Brown, proprietor of Madison’s Grill at SE 11th and Madison delighted diners with Dungeness crab cakes, cheese, espresso brownies and a wasabi cocktail. “We’re a part of the Hawthorne area, and want to introduce more people to our menu to people who are here.”
The Blueprints lay down some great blues music tunes early in the evening. They made way later in the evening for headliner Robbie Laws, who established a studio on Hawthorne and teaches guitar lessons.
To raise additional funds for their organization, the group conducted a silent auction, featuring donated services and merchandise. Nearly 100 items were up for bid. There was a lot of action on two Oregon coast vacation home rentals.
As people continued to pour in, we asked Prouty if the event was worth the work. “Indeed it was. We love to party!”
© 2006 David F. Ashton ~ East PDX News
At the Sellwood Park Bird Festival, we met Bob Sallinger, holding a swallow plaque painted by his son, Peter.
Story and Photos by David F. Ashton
Under the sunny sky, in warm, spring weather, May 13th supplied a perfect setting for the “International Migratory Bird Day” at Oaks Bottom.
“Today, we’re exploring the role we play in protecting migratory birds,” is how Bob Sallinger, Urban Conservation Director, Portland Audubon Society, explained the activities at Sellwood Park, overlooking the Oaks Bottom wetland. “We call it a ‘bird festival’, and hope to make people more aware of the bird diversity we have here in the urban landscape.”
Asked how the event might accomplish this goal, Sallinger told us, “When we get people to take a walk with us, and they see what’s going on, it helps them understand our mission. There is no better way than to have people simply look up! I’ve worked for Audubon for 14 years, and I’ve heard so many people tell me they never really look.
Elizabeth Kramer, Audubon Society educator, spent the day checking in people for the bird walks. She talks with Carole Harmon.
“When we talk them for a walk, even in this urban environment, they are surprised to find we have nesting bald eagles, and blue herons, falcons ‚Äì in fact, more than 209 species just in the metro Portland region.”
Mayor speaks and signs
In addition to the Audubon Society hosted guided tours of Oaks Bottom, the event in Sellwood Park featured a half-dozen craft, activity, and informational booths for adults and kids to enjoy.
Mr. Sagar, Steve Feiner and daughter Rachel, Malina Sagar, and their families say they came to the Bird Festival to see birds, and take the kids for a beautiful walk.
At the US Fish and Wildlife “Conserving Nature” exhibit, Maxwell Schmidt is working on a craft project with the help of his grandmother Kevin Wright.
Emma Rose McMillan has gloves on, protecting her hands as she works at another booth creating crafts.
In mid-afternoon, Mayor Tom Potter came by to be part of the celebration. In an exclusive interview, he told us, “Portland is known for its livability. I believe that birds are an important part of it for all of us.
“Unfortunately, almost a tenth of the 200-some species here are on the endangered list. We must do a better job protecting our wildlife and birds. What this event does is remind people to take a little time, enjoy what you see around you, and take care of our animals and plants.”
At the official ceremony, Portland Mayor Tom Potter signs a “Bird Treaty” certificate, as Miel Corbette, Fish & Wildlife Service, looks on.
Portland cited as a leader in urban conservation
As the ceremony began, Miel Corbette of the Fish & Wildlife Service addressed attendees: “We hold this annual celebration here, because the first ‘Bird Treaty’ was signed here in 2003, dedicating Oaks Bottom as a wild bird refuge. Portland’s forests, wetlands, and river bottoms are home to more than 200 species of birds. The Fish and Wildlife Service launched the Migratory Bird Treaty program in 1999.”
What makes the Rose City unique, Corbette told the gathering, is that Portland is one of only six cities to sign such a treaty, and the only such city west of the Rocky Mountains. “Portland is leading the way in urban conservation.”
Mayor Potter explained the treaty, saying “it’s an agreement among all the city agencies that we work together to protect our migratory birds. We want to assure that they have good nesting areas, and are protected from predatory animals.”
Robera Jortner, Anne Rutherford, and Jan DeWeese make up The Tanagers, performing their song “The Great Pacific Flyway” as part of the official Bird Festival ceremony.
“It’s easy to ‘write off’ urban wildlife habitat,” Sallinger commented to us during the signing ceremony. “But Oaks Bottom is an important place for birds to stop, feed, rest, and have shelter. When endangered species are gone, they’re gone forever. And that’s a very long time.”
© 2006 David F. Ashton ~ East PDX News ~ Published May 29, 2006
Read how this unique event in Lents brings more than 800 people to see all kinds of birds, and learn about them from their breeders
The Bird Festival has grown into a large, lively event. If you want to know about birds, from the small to the largest – people from all over the Pacific Northwest say this is the show to attend. Free admission and parking makes it easy for everyone to join in the fun.
Story & Photos by David F. Ashton
On April 8, breeders from across the Pacific Northwest, put on another Bird Festival event. This one attracted more than 800 visitors.
People who came said they were amazed to see the large variety of breeds being shown – many more than they typically find at other bird shows.
Kristin Stai shows off her Cockatoo named Playboy, a Cockatoo. “I’ve had him for about three years. He’s a great pet,” she told us. Stai said she came to the Bird Festival to see “The Bird Doctor”, Pam Burke.
All kinds of birds, from to large, talking macaws tiny, brightly-colored finches are the stars of the event.
“The breeders here are all so friendly,” commented Mary Singleton. “The variety of birds is great, but what makes this the best show I’ve been to is that the breeders will take time to talk with you.” She said a breeder with whom she was speaking didn’t have the exact bird she wanted. “Instead of just saying ‘sorry’ ‚Äì he introduced me to another breeder who had what I was looking for. This event was well worth the drive in from Beaverton.”
Guy Cone (seen here) and his wife, Judith, co-host this event, even though it requires them to close down their business ‚Äì Quality Cage Company ‚Äì to do so. “Breeders were looking for an east-side location for a show,” Guy said, “and we decided to help. It’s great fun; we really enjoy watching people learning about birds.”
The gray, rain-swept day didn’t keep people from seeing 22 breeders’ birds, including Finches, Ringnecks, Parakeets, Cockatiels, Canaries, Love Birds, Cockatoos, Macaws, African Greys and Quakers.
All this, and “The Bird Doctor”, too!
Veterinarian Pamela A. Burke is known in the greater Portland area as “The Bird Doctor”. From little tweety-birds to mighty Macaws, Burke’s passion is for winged creatures. Dr. Burke gave out free advice at the spring Bird Festival.
Asked why one should seek out a bird “specialist”, Burke told, “We’re like any medical specialist. Because I’ve spent my career caring for birds, I’m able to quickly diagnose problems and recommend treatments. Would you want horse vet trying to save your cat’s life?”
At the Bird Festival, Dr. Burke provided on-site avian clinic services like wing and nail trims, DNA sexing, and health certificates for a modest fee.
Johnnie Reinhart of Johnnie’s Jungle in Washougal, WA spent part of the day giving kids an up-close experience with some of her larger birds.
Fall Bird Fest scheduled for October 7
Come learn about a wide variety of birds from their breeders at the Fall Bird Festival on Saturday, October 7, 2006. Hours are from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
This free show is being put on by the breeders in the warehouse of Quality Cage Co., 5942 SE 111th Ave., Portland, OR 97266. For more information about the fall show, call the company at (503) 762-2607, or watch www.BirdFest.net for more details.
© 2006 David F. Ashton ~ East PDX News
Find out why, even though Rossi Farms is usually closed this time of year ‚Äì and it was raining sideways ‚Äì the Farm was packed with families on April 15 …
Sponsors Joe and Nick Rossi take a moment for a photo before the big Rossi Easter Egg Hunt gets under way on April 15. David F. Ashton photo
By David F. Ashton
As their ground rests, awaiting the spring planting, Rossi Farms on NE 122nd Ave. is usually closed this time of year.
But on the afternoon of April 15, families from all over outer NE Portland came streaming in to the location for Rossi brothers’ Second Annual Easter Egg Hunt.
After Joe cuts the ribbon, hundreds of excited kids discover they don’t have to look very hard to find goodies by the handful. David F. Ashton photo
“We have about 8,000 eggs and treats out this year,” Joe Rossi told us. It looks like we have doubled the attendance from last year.”
Ten employees helped get the eggs ready for the free family event.
All over the Rossi Wild West set, eggs are hidden for the little kids to find. They’re off and running!. David F. Ashton photo
Why does Joe, and his brother, Nick, put this on?
“It is a way to give back to the community,” Joe told us. “And, it is fun. We have such a great time watching kids grab up the Easter eggs. They’re like a giant vacuum cleaner ‚Äì the treats are gone in less than five minutes!”
Tim Curran, publisher, MID COUNTY MEMO getting some cute photos for his next issue. David F. Ashton photo
© 2006 David F. Ashton ~ East PDX News
By David F. Ashton – April 11, 2006
In the vast expanse called outer East Portland, there is one – yes only one – good, old-fashioned parade every year.
That’s why nearly a thousand adults and kids line NE Halsey St. every May to see the Fun-O-Rama Parade.
The Floyd Light Band plays great marching tunes. David F. Ashton Photo
The high and low if it – unicyclists are a favorite along the parade route! David F. Ashton Photo
This parade usually has it all: Floats, marchers, bands, and the famous Keystone Kops’ antics along the route.
Commissioner Sam Adams announces the Fun-O-Rama Parade, and welcomes folks to the Fun-O-Rama Fair. David F. Ashton Photo
We’re told that Portland City Commissioner Sam Adams will again announce the parade as it passes the reviewing stand at 111th Square.
Those krazy Keystone Kops pull pranks for the crown in front of the reviewing stand at last year’s Fun-O-Rama Parade. David F. Ashton Photo
Getting this parade together takes a lot of time and effort. Pamela Colton, Nickel Ads, is the parade’s chair. She, and a dozen volunteers, starts lining up the parade north of NE 122nd Ave. early in the morning, before it starts down NE Halsey Ave. at 10:30 a.m., rain or shine. Have a group to march in the parade? Call Colton at (503) 252-7519 – but do it now! Spots are filling up.
The fun doesn’t end
Wait! There’s more! The fun doesn’t end with the parade. The Gateway Area Business Association presents the Fun-O-Rama Fair at 111th Square (at NE Halsey St. and 111th Ave.)
A young marshal artist demonstrates her skills. David F. Ashton Photo
See representatives from local businesses. Each year, the Fair features entertainment like clowns, dance, music and martial arts demonstrations.
Steevie Weevie squeeks up balloon hats at the Fair. David F. Ashton Photo
Also, the “Gateway Citizen of the Year” is honored. We’re told “Father Jack” Mosbrucker is this year’s honoree.
Golf tourney on May 13
The annual Golf-O-Rama will again be held at Glendoveer Golf Course. Past proceeds have gone to support the organization’s scholarship fund for David Douglas High School seniors. Interested? Call organizer (and Snoopy’s friend) Karen Montez, Met Life, at (503) 252-6241 for more information of this fun event.
We’ll see you at the 2006 Gateway Fun-O-Rama!
© 2006 David F. Ashton ~ East PDX News
click here to subscribe
