Deluge doesn’t stop Parkrose ‘Trunk or Treat’

Judging by the turnout, see why this new Hallowe’en tradition might as well have taken place on a sunny afternoon …

Torrential rain doesn’t dampen the spirits of those attending the new “Trunk or Treat” event, put on by Parkrose area businesses on Hallowe’en evening.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton

The fact that, all across Portland, the afternoon of October 31 saw the most rainfall in the shortest period of time all year, didn’t stop folks in Parkrose from hosting a fun – if a bit soggy – Hallowe’en event called Trunk or Treat.

It’s a simple concept: Local business managers and organization volunteers would drive to Parkrose High School’s east parking lot, open their automobile trunks loaded with candy and coupons, and invite families to visit them for goodies and some fun.

Looking spooky for “Trunk or Treat” are Holiday Inn Director of Event Sales Sharen Fowler, and Events Sales Manager Jason Loucks.

“When I came out here to help set this up earlier this afternoon, I really wondered if anyone – businesspeople, or families – would show up,” said Historic Parkrose Neighborhood Prosperity Initiative District Manager Dr. Mingus Mapps.

“But then, almost all of the 30 business representatives who signed up came in, set up their cars and trucks – and within the first 90 minutes or so, we saw 200 people come here!” Mapps said.

US Bank’s Daniel Delong, and US Bank Manager and event sparkplug KT Goeke, stand with Dr. Mingus Mapps at the first Parkrose Trunk or Treat.

Mapps credited Parkrose US Bank manager KT Goeke for bringing forward and promoting the “Trunk or Treat” idea to the community. “We thought it was a wonderful idea for a neighborhood event on Hallowe’en, and thought we’d give it a shot.”

Having come dressed in their Hallowe’en best, these kids hope to win prizes for their efforts.

Due to the pelting rain, some of kids’ games planned for the event went by the wayside, but organizers did host a costume contest.

Many of the “trunks” were those of members of the co-sponsor and promoter of the event, the Parkrose Business Association (PBA).

PBA President Mike Taylor, member Karen Taylor, and PBA Business District Organizer Adrienne Sweetwater greet visitors in a popular spot – under a large canopy off the side of a motor home.

“This is a good community event that gets our members and business people out into the community,” commented PBA President Mike Taylor.

“Especially on a dark and stormy evening like this, we’re providing a very safe place for kids come with their parents,” Taylor told East Portland News. “At the same time, it’s a good opportunity for people in our business community to come out and be part of this neighborhood event.”

Portland Police Bureau Officers Kelly Kindrick and Jeremy Anderson are ready with small gifts for kids that won’t melt in the rain.

Community involvement is part of PBA’s mission, Taylor continued. “And, businesses, our emergency first responders, and other agencies get positive exposure in the community handing out candy – and have the opportunity to provide information as well. It’s a good thing for everyone.”

© 2015 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

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