Looky here, pardner: This ain’t no little ole’ barn dance! See how much fun folks had when they came to the 9th Annual Barn Bash ‚Ķ
Just below, see our photo album of this great East Portland event!
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Regular readers already know about the Barn Bash put on by the Rossi family (and friends), to raise money for the Parkrose Youth Activities Fund.
If you haven’t yet gotten the word, take a look at the photos below and you’ll see why we think this is such a wonderful event.
This year’s Barn Bash attracted 1,800 folks to the most unique and fun party in Portland at Rossi Farms on July 8. When the dust settled, the Posse (sponsors and organizers) said the event raised $14,000, which will help eleven youth groups and organizations in the community.
2006 Rossi Farms BARN BASH Photo Album
Joe Rossi is ready to ice down hundreds of cold water bottles for the event.
Looks like nearly everyone in Outer East Portland is coming to the 2006 Barn Bash.
Parkrose High School ASPIRE director Teena Ainsley is one of 1,800 to pass through the Barn Bash entry gate.
Volunteers Clarence and Sharon Fode keep busy serv’n up the chicken.
The Zieglers (and friend) sit down to a plate of bodacious barbecue.
Portland Commissioner Sam Adams is served some of that delicious, tender Parkrose Lions BBQ chicken. Sam told us, “I’ve heard about the Barn Bash for years. It’s great to see this community come together to have a great time ‚Äì and support a good cause.”
The generosity of Widmer Brothers – and the thirst of the crowd – provided additional proceeds for the Parkrose Youth Activities Fund.
Multnomah County Commissioner Lonnie Roberts and his wife sit down to a great barbecue chicken dinner grilled by the Parkrose Lions Club, and served up by dozens of hard-working volunteers.
It takes a whole crew of hard-working volunteers to serve more than 1,500 freshly-made strawberry-shortcake desserts.
Folks look forward to the action of the Wild West Show and Civil War Reenactment.
As evening falls, the Barn Bash Corral fills with folks having a great time.
After dinner, hundreds take to the barn dance floor and kick up their heels into the night, to the music of “The Last Rodeo Band”.
The “clean, blue suites” provided by Craig Mendenhall’s American Sani-Cans were a big relief to Barn Bash party-goers.
Mark your calendar now!
Looking back on the 2006 Barn Bash, Joe Rossi told us, “We certainly couldn’t have this event without the dozens of volunteers who help in so many ways. Look for next year’s Barn Bash; it’s July 14, 2007.”
Foundation sponsors include the Parkrose Lions Club; Hasson Realtors, Nick Rossi PC Principal Broker; Widmer Brothers; Reser’s Fine Foods; Aldo Rossi; Tonkin Auto Group; Elmer’s Restaurants; Mid-County Memo; Oliveros & Obrien, PC; Graziano Foodservices, Inc.; William Frank Bitar & Associates ‚Äì and of course, Rossi Farms.
© 2006 David F. Ashton ~ East PDX News
See why one of the best places to hear music is
in a park this summer …
Sitting on the grass, down by the river, more than 1,000 gathered for the swinging sounds of Stolen Sweets.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
With a light, cooling breeze blowing in off the Willamette River, more than 1,000 folks came out for the opening of the concert season at Sellwood Riverfront Park on July 10.
This program featured Stolen Sweets, ’30’s swing jazz band from Portland who have just released a new CD.
Many food vendors were at the concerts. Making hot, fresh kettle corn at the concert is Caroline Barron; sampling her wares are Dan McCarthy and his son Rydan.
The smell of fresh kettle corn filled the air, vendors provided beverages and snacks. But many just brought their picnic baskets loaded with their favorite outdoor treats.
“Having a concert in your neighborhood helps all of us feel connect with our neighborhood,” explained Kristin Knapp, Summer Concerts coordinator, Portland Parks & Recreation. “Music connects people. And these concerts help us ‘claim’ our parks for ourselves and our families, and allow us to be proud of our neighborhood.”
Just one of the groups having family fun at Sellwood Riverfront Park, flanked by Sydney and Paige, is Rachel Schubert with Willis and David Schubert; friends Andy Fisher and Madison joined them for the concert.
From a practical standpoint, the music programs help improve park safety, Knapp said. “When we have events here, it helps people not feel afraid to come to the park. The park is a safe place to go. When we create good events in the park, it chases out the undesirable activities.”
The concerts, every Monday evening in July, were presented by Portland Parks and Recreation, SMILE, and several local businesses.
© 2006 David F. Ashton ~ East PDX News
See lots of photos of this great event, put on by the Parkrose Business Association, which raised enough money to fund three scholarships for Parkrose High seniors next year …
On a hot day like this, everyone thanked Parkrose School District (Michael Taylor, Superintendent) for providing a grassy field – instead of a sizzling asphalt tarmac, for the event.
Photos and story by David F. Ashton
Almost any kind of unique vehicle one could imagine was at the 2006 Rose Festival Cruise-in in Parkrose on June 24. There were tricked out contemporary cars and motorcycles, vintage racers, trucks, and military vehicles on display.
Some said the scorching hot weather kept the attendance down slightly, at this –the only Rose Festival sanctioned event held in outer East Portland. But it was clear, from the faces of the participants and attendees alike, that this event was a success by all measures.
“I’m so happy to be here,” said Sarah Lang, a winner of a 2006 Parkrose Foundation Scholarship. “I’m going to Pacific University next year. And it’s wonderful that our event raised enough money to fund three scholarships for Parkrose High seniors next year, too!”
Those who love cars weren’t disappointed. The wide array of vehicles was second to none. And, look at the photos below, and see why people in Parkrose are already looking forward to next year’s event!
Cruise-in “Pit Boss” Marsha Lee gets Portland Commissioner Sam Adams ready to give out one of many awards.
Gail Bash, starts up a “Blow-Up” car ‚Äì a vehicle drained of oil and coolant. For $1 a guess, participants estimate how many minutes and seconds it will take for the car’s engine to seize up.
Climbing the wall at the Kids Play Center is Alan Schmidt – he and his folks came to the Rose Festival Cruise-in from Beaverton.
Remote control racer Richard Donovan working on his Low-C JRSX 10th Scale Electric, 10-turn. Donovan’s comment: “I’m not winning, but I sure am having fun!” (Learn more about this great hobby at www.RoseCityRacing.com)
Working the Parkrose Rose Festival Cruise-in’s “Company Store” are Cheryl Boud, Deidre Bond and Debbie Hollingsworth.
Eric Johansson, and Rob Kleyla of Davey Tree Service/OrganiCare give us an up-high view of the Cruise-in.
Here’s Keth Lewis with his yellow ’66 Shelby Cobra replica. “I always wanted one,” Lewis said. We asked if it was fun to drive. “It’s more fun than it looks. Much more.”
Kellie and Duane Caseday show off the 1911 White dump truck that they say has been in the family since it was brand new.
With many food vendors on hand, no one went hungry. Chef Edgar and Eileen Stocker brought great Steamers Restaurant food to the Cruise-in patrons.
To the music of the rockin’ band, Kelton McElhaney and Sadie McElhaney try doing the Hula Hoop.
A 2006 Parkrose Foundation scholarship winner, Sarah Lang, handing out an award. Lang will attend Pacific University next year.
For the third time, Lyle Davis wins “Best of Show 2006 Rose Festival Cruise-in”. He’s standing in front of his red ’39 Chevy Sedan, with name sponsor, Rex Hollingsworth of Rex Heating and Cooling.
© 2006 David F. Ashton ~ East PDX News
For over thirty years, Bill Dayton has been associated with great pizza at his SE 122nd Ave. and Division St. Pizza Baron store. But today, his motor-head friends all came over for a great parking-lot car show …
The heat of the day didn’t keep away some of the hottest cars in town on June 25!
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Before noon, the parking lot of the shopping center SE 122nd Ave. and Division St. was full. Amazing, because almost all of the stores are closed on Sunday!
Why? The event was the The Pizza Baron Cruise In 2006.
Charlene Mersereau shows off her 1966 Cobra to Bill Dayton. “”I like the interior of the car,” she told us. “The stereo is great. And oh yes, I also love the motor. It drives great!”
Hosted by Classic Rides, the car club gave away dozens of great door prizes, dash plaques and trophies as “Joey’s Cruise-in Show” played the oldies and entertained both car owners and onlookers.
© 2006 David F. Ashton ~ East PDX News
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
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
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
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
