Take a look and you’ll see this was far more than just showing motion picture outdoors. And, get a sneak peek at the plans for unveiling of the Parkrose Immigrant Statue Saturday, October 1…
Volunteers Allison Ebert and Rachel Humphrey are serving up hot dogs at the Rossi Farm outdoor movie, sponsored by Pacific NW Federal Credit Union.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
The centenary celebration in Parkrose continued this summer – again, at Rossi Farms – with an outdoor movie.
“I think we skipped doing this last year,” acknowledged Joe Rossi, as he got ready to play a part in the Wild West Show about to begin at the September 10 event.
On the Wild West Show set, the mayor of old time Parkrose (portrayed by actor Howie Rubin) comes out of the tavern to look things over with Senator James Prescott (William Warren), who is there to address the town regarding his bid to be re-elected for a second term in the US Senate.
Cowgirl Erin Lavoie helps the little buckaroos learn how to rope a calf.
“It’s great that all these people, especially folks with large families, can come and enjoy a free event here,” Rossi added. “The cost of taking the family out for a movie and popcorn could run as much as fifty bucks. But tonight, we’re presenting ‘Rio’, and giving free popcorn, and free fresh apples – picked off the tree just yesterday – at no cost.”
Additionally, for only $1.50 per meal, folks were served a hot dog or Polish sausage dinner including soft drink and chips. “This is all possible because Pacific NW Federal Credit Union sponsored the whole event – including the dinner. All funds raised here will benefit Parkrose Outdoor School.”
Rooster Cogburn (Rich Miller), Cowboy (Larry Jones), Swifty (Roger Sweisberger), and Turkey Creek Tom (Mannen) agree that they’re ready to take on any bad guys who might invade the streets of old Parkrose.
With the “set” of old time Parkrose in the background, Judy Kennedy of Pacific NW Federal Credit Union and Joe Rossi say they’re pleased that so many neighbors came to enjoy the summer evening.
Judy Kennedy, of Pacific NW Federal Credit Union, said the organization believes in supporting local community events. “Especially here with the Rossi family. They do so much to help our Parkrose community.”
Asked how she felt about seeing the more than 300 people gathering for the Wild West Show and movie, she replied enthusiastically, “It’s just great. I love seeing the kids enjoying themselves with our families. The kids are our future, and that’s something really worth investing in!” Kennedy added.
The crowd gathers as the Wild West Show begins.
This bad hombre had better be careful if he plans to blow the safe at the Pacific NW Federal Credit Union …
… guess he wasn’t careful! Ka-Boom!
After the smoke cleared from the Wild West Show, Rossi was smiling from ear to ear.
“It just popped into my head,” Rossi said, “Seeing all these people here, I feel as my dad must’ve felt at the community events he hosted. My dad loved events when community groups came together.”
“So, I look around have to say, ‘Wow! This is really cool; all of our neighbors showed up,” Rossi concluded. “I’m a little overwhelmed by it all. And I couldn’t do it without the help of my technician, [and son] Graham Rossi.”
Parkrose celebrates 100th Anniversary on October 1
Parkrose sculptor James Gion carefully watches as the base of the Portland Immigrant Statue – to be unveiled on October 1 – is set in place.
> See our past stories about the making of the Parkrose Immigrant Statue: CLICK HERE.
The Parkrose Centennial Celebration kicks off On October 1, with the unveiling of the Portland Immigrant Statue.
Then, at 11:30 a.m., a community parade celebrating the 100th anniversary of the founding of Parkrose will travel from the site of the statue, ending up on NE Shaver Street at the Parkrose High School parking lot. A reception begins at 12:30 p.m. near the Parkrose Farmers Market.
For more information, see the Parkrose Centennial Celebration Facebook page: CLICK HERE.
© 2011 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
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