Give It Up For Sam!

Portland’s Wonder Ballroom is a joint where entertainers wow their fans. Recently it was host to Sam Adams in his bid to gain the mayor’s seat. Adam’s well organized team of campaign volunteers had the place ready to accept financial contributions, additional volunteers to get the vote out, and especially, to provide those who packed the place, a place to meet, greet, and be entertained.

I was one of the volunteers who roamed the floor to thank people for coming, and to get them to commit to being more actively involved. With me was my photographer, Horace Long, who was the official campaign photographer of Sam Adams.

In the corners were booths where people had their photos taken. These photos would be placed on the campaign walls for inspiration. Each person held a small neighborhood -identifying sign with their name written on it. There was such a sense of community!

Trays and trays of food were donated by local eateries and were gobbled up by the masses.

A couple of groups entertained. First up was El Cuadro Solo Flamenco, a group who actually teaches flamenco dancing.











Then the Mistress of Ceremonies, female impersonator, Poison Waters, spoke. She was stunning in a golden gown, and her hair and makeup were flawless.

Waters introduced the man of the hour, Sam Adams, who glowed in the limelight and shared his desires for a better Portland. Then a video was aired that featured our man from sunup to sundown.





When Sam reluctantly left the stage, Casey Neill & the Norway Rats, played their music for the enthusiastic crowd.


When I arrived, I was one of sixty volunteers who would guide the attendees throughout the night. When I left, the place was packed. Sam had estimated there would be 600 people, and I bet he was right.




What is great about an event like this is that you see so many people you know. I was enjoying reconnecting with people I hadn’t seen in a long time. I had a great time.

A Stroll Through Washington Park

It was such a lovely day today that we decided to do what any sensible person would do--get out. Neither one of us had visited Washington Park in NW Portland, so we decided to drive over. We were not the only ones who had the same idea. I think about half of Portland was there enjoying the many attractions that are house there: the zoo, children's museum, forestry center, Japanese gardens, rose garden, and numerous walking and hiking paths that criss-cross the 200+ acres.
Aside from a chilling breeze, the day was cloud-free. Just perfect to stroll along the different walkways planted with labeled trees and plants. We were in the conifer area and saw hemlocks, douglas furs, ferns, and lots of dogs.

Along the way were places to see views of the different snow covered mountain peaks, which we took photos of. I know the Portland Chamber of Commerce photographers were busy today, because it was really picture perfect.

On the way home, we took a scenic route along the west hills and paused to look at, what else, more mountains.

"Fu" to You!

Lion dancing in Portland? You bet, especially if it is the Lunar New Year, this year being the Year of the Rat. Where best to view the celebrations? Duh, in Old Town Chinatown, of course! We got a ringside, er table side view of the annual event when we dined at Fong Chong Restaurant. Seated at the front window near the door (probably not the “A List” spot), we were able to see both the exterior and interior performances.

Young boys, light enough to balance on top of each other, were costumed in the elaborate lion garb. Drums rolled, firecrackers popped, and lions did their thing. It was a fine display that extended into the restaurant, where the garbed lions and entourage danced their way into the kitchen to wish all there “Fu” or blessing, good fortune, and good luck.
At the end of the noisy performance, the diners stood and applauded the exciting and unexpected fine presentation.
As we left, we noted that lettuce and oranges had been placed at the entrance, a symbol, we were told, to appease the lions and give great “Fu” for the coming year.