Eagle Point National Cemetery was originally created in 1952 to serve the burial needs of veterans domiciled at Camp White, a World War II-era military training center near Medford, Oregon. It is located one mile east of Eagle Point and 14 miles northeast of Medford, in Jackson County. Located along Riley Road at the southern end of the Rogue River Valley, the 43-acre cemetery provides scenic views of the city of Eagle Point and the surrounding valley.
The first burial at Eagle Point National Cemetery occurred in March 1952; by the time of the cemetery dedication on Memorial Day, there were six interments. The 7.5 developed acres of the cemetery remained relatively unchanged until the late 1980s. In 1973, the cemetery entered the national cemetery system following the consolidation of veterans' cemeteries under the authority of the Veterans Administration (VA). After becoming a national cemetery, the property underwent gradual improvements to accommodate the growing veteran population and to provide new burial space for the national cemetery system. As a result, Eagle Point National Cemetery reflects the evolution of the VA's cemetery program from one of caring for veterans through domiciliary programs to overseeing the national cemetery system.
Eagle Point National Cemetery is one of two national cemeteries in Oregon. The second is Willamette National Cemetery, which was the first national cemetery in the northwest United States and was listed in the National Register of Historic Places in July, 2016.
As of February 2016, Eagle Point National Cemetery contains 19,893 interments. With burials beginning in 1951, Willamette National Cemetery contained 151,043 interments as of June 2012.
The National Park Service has stated that all National Cemeteries are to be considered eligible for listing in the National Register "as a result of their Congressional designation as nationally significant places of burial and commemoration." The Eagle Point National Cemetery was recommended for listing in the National Register by the Oregon State Advisory Committee on Historic Preservation in their June 2016 meeting.
The National Register is maintained by the National Park Service under the authority of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966. More information about the National Register and recent Oregon listings is online at www.oregonheritage.org (click on "National Register" at left of page).
The 1909 church in the Albina neighborhood, on Portland's east side, was purchased by the congregation in 1951 and remodeled to its current appearance in 1958. The congregation was established in 1944 in a housing development for war-time workers employed in the nearby shipyards. After the war, the church moved to the Albina neighborhood of Portland, where African Americans were forced to live in this era due to discriminatory housing practices. The congregation grew rapidly under the leadership of Reverend O.B. Williams and by the early 1950s needed more space. They engaged architect Hubert Athling Williams, who renovated the Gothic Revival church, giving it the modern appearance it has today.
In their nearly 50-year tenure at the helm of the Vancouver Avenue First Baptist Church, Reverend Williams and his wife Willia offered not only spiritual leadership to the congregation, but also provided education, social services and a real community center. Additionally, the church encouraged civic and social engagement, which was enhanced by Williams' extensive social and political connections. The church became central to the civil rights movement, as it played out locally, regionally, and nationally, with lectures and rallies by civil rights leaders and activists such as the national president of the NAACP, Roy Wilkins, and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. In 1968 the church hosted the Portland's memorial service for the slain Martin Luther King, Jr., which was attended by Senator Mark Hatfield, Governor Tom McCall, Portland mayor Terry Schrunk, a host of municipal dignitaries, and a crowd of over 1,500 persons.
The church's congregation, which was locally based historically, has been impacted by urban renewal, institutional expansion, and now gentrification. Nonetheless, the institution continues in a leadership position in the African American community. Today the building is one of the few remaining historic structures in Albina that is directly associated with the Civil Rights movement.
Oregon's State Advisory Committee on Historic Preservation recommended the building's nomination in their June 2016 meeting. Today it is one of four structures in Portland and six in the state as a whole associated with African American history that are individually listed in the National Register, which is maintained by the National Park Service under the authority of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966.
An article about the Vancouver Avenue First Baptist Church, written by nomination author Raymond Burell III, can be found on the Oregon Heritage Exchange at https://oregonheritage.wordpress.com/. More information about the National Register and recent Oregon lists is online at www.oregonheritage.org (click on "National Register" at left of page).
The Oregon Commission on Historic Cemeteries will meet at 1 p.m. October 14. The commission will visit the Croxton Cemetery at 10 a.m. A public business meeting will begin at 1 p.m. at the Josephine County Historical Society Museum and Library, 512 SW 5th Street, Grants Pass. Agenda items will include cemetery ownership, historic cemetery grant program, current projects and upcoming plans. The commission will invite public comments. For information visit the historic cemeteries page of www.oregonheritage.org.
State law established the seven-member Oregon Commission on Historic Cemeteries to maintain a listing of all historic cemeteries and gravesites in Oregon; promote public education on the significance of historic cemeteries; and obtain financial and technical assistance for restoring, improving and maintaining their appearances.
Requests for information about the meeting and accessibility may be made to coordinator Kuri Gill at 503-986-0685 or by e-mail: Kuri.Gill@oregon.gov.
The Historic Assessment Review Committee will meet at 9:30 am on October 11 at the North Mall Office Building, 725 Summer Street NE, Room 124, Salem. Agenda items will include overview and history of the Special Assessment Property Tax program, passing of bylaws, election of chair, presentation of current Special Assessment projects and downtown walking tour. The committee will invite public comments.
State law established the five-member Historic Assessment Review Committee to be the review body for appeals from property owners participating in the Special Assessment Property Tax Program for Historic Properties.
Reservations by the public to join the downtown walking tour must be requested no later than 5 pm, October 10th. Requests for information about the meeting and accessibility may be made to coordinator Joy Sears at 503-986-0688 or by e-mail: Joy.Sears@oregon.gov.
News Release // Oregon Parks and Recreation Dept. // FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE // Sept. 20, 2016
Media Contacts:
Ben Cox, Park Manager, Oregon Parks and Recreation Dept., 503-368-5943, ext. 222
Teri Wing, North Coast District Manager, Oregon Parks and Recreation Dept., 503-861-3170, ext. 23
Arch Cape OR -- The remains of a 38' dead humpback whale that came ashore near Arch Cape over the weekend washed back out with the high tide, only to return today two miles south at Short Sand Beach inside Oswald West State Park (http://bit.ly/oswaldwest). State park staff will be on the beach at 1 p.m. both Saturday and Sunday, September 24-25, to present interpretive talks.
The twice-daily high tides predicted over the next few weeks are not expected to be high enough to take it back out to sea, though it is still possible for it to wash out. The interpretive presentations will happen on the beach whether the whale washes out or not. Researchers will continue to have access if they need to collect more tissue.
The bodies of marine mammals and other animals are a natural part of the ocean shore. On busy beaches in the heat of summer, Oregon Parks and Recreation Department staff normally bury large mammals if they are on busy beaches and reachable with excavation equipment. In this case, where temperatures are cool and visitors are fewer, it will be left to decay naturally. Scavengers and microorganisms will consume and recycle the tissue over the course of several weeks.
Researchers have the required federal permits to collect tissue from dead whales. All other visitors are encouraged to come see the humpback, but are not allowed to take any pieces and are discouraged from touching it. When visiting, keep pets away from the corpse, and keep an eye on the ocean for safety's sake.
The interpretive presentation and parking at Oswald West are both free. Park at the North Short Sand Trailhead on US Highway 101, and follow the trail signs from the parking area to Short Sand Beach, then walk north.
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Smith Rock State Park will host its 14th annual Oregon Archaeology Celebration (OAC) lecture series in October. In addition to the weekly Friday evening presentations, a special Saturday event is set for Oct. 1. All presentations will take place at the Smith Rock State Park Welcome Center, 10087 NE Crooked River Drive, Terrebonne. The free talks are open to the public. Day-use parking is $5. Annual parking passes for 12- or 24-months are available.
"This is an outstanding opportunity for members of the public to discover the compelling and colorful history and heritage of our region," said Paul Patton, Mountain Region resource specialist for the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD).
Oct. 1 [Saturday], noon-3 p.m.: Patrick O'Grady, Ph.D., and staff archaeologist for the University of Oregon Museum of Natural and Cultural History, will display and discuss "The Traveling Museum of Oregon Prehistory."
The following Friday evening presentations are scheduled from 7-8:30 p.m. and will include a question and answer period.
Oct. 7: Rory Becker, Eastern Oregon University associate professor of anthropology, will present "Seeing Beneath the Soil: Remote Sensing Techniques in Archaeology."
Oct. 14: Jenny Huang, Bureau of Reclamation archaeologist, will present "A Place of Power: The Watson Rock Art Site of Malheur County."
Oct. 21: Eric Iseman, OPRD park ranger and researcher, will present "Tribal Rock Art of the Oregon Country."
Oct. 28: Paul M. Patton, OPRD resource specialist, will present "A New Look at the Peopling of the Americas."
The OAC program was established in 1993 when Gov. Barbara Roberts made a proclamation that set aside one month each year to celebrate and promote Oregon's archaeology, cultural heritage and history.
Smith Rock State Park is located off U.S 97 three miles north of Redmond and three miles east of Terrebonne. More information and directions are available at www.oregonstateparks.org or by calling 541-923-7551, ext. 21.
Canyon City OR -- A stakeholder's work group discussing the future of Bates State Park and Bates Pond completed the third of three scheduled meetings Sept. 15 in Canyon City. The group reviewed six proposed options to modify the pond as a way to improve fish habitat, but did not reach a consensus about a recommendation to the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD).
Agency staff will review the results of the discussion in the coming months, and then reconvene the group in spring 2017 to resume the conversation. The group's results will go to senior OPRD managers. Oregon Consensus, part of the National Policy Consensus Center in the Hatfield School of Government at Portland State University, facilitated the group's work.
The 131-acre park, near Austin Junction at the confluence of Bridge Creek and the Middle Fork of the John Day River, opened in 2011 and includes a 28-site campground, camping for hikers and bicyclists, short trails, and a small pond on Bridge Creek. Debate over the best management approach for the old mill pond, and especially balancing recreation with the pond's effects on water quality and fish passage, in part prompted OPRD to convene the group. The group's members included:
* Local landowners Pat Voigt and Melanie Dejong
* Friends of Bates State Park
* Native Fish Society
* North Fork John Day Watershed Council
* Grant County Court
* Grant County Soil and Water Conservation District
* Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation
* Warm Springs Tribe
* Department of Environmental Quality
* Department of Fish and Wildlife
* Parks and Recreation Department
* Water Resources Department
* National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
* U.S. Forest Service
* U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
Department managers, including Clyde Holliday Park Manager Dennis Bradley and agency Director Lisa Sumption, will consider any recommendations made next spring and develop a plan to implement them.
"We know the pond is important as both a historical reminder of the Bates Mill, and as a recreation feature of the park," said Park Development Manager Scott Nebeker, who represented the OPRD executive team on the work group. "Balancing these facts with the need to improve water quality and fish habitat is a challenge, and we're thankful the stakeholder group came together to work through this openly. We expect the group will be able to develop an alternative when they convene again."
The park currently serves around 20,000 day visitors and provides 1,600 camper nights a year. A camper night is equal to one camper spending one night in a state park.
The City of The Dalles and The Dalles Main Street received an Excellence in Downtown Revitalization Award for "Outstanding Partnership" from Oregon Main Street on September 15 during the Oregon Main Street Evening of Excellence Celebration in Astoria. This award is given to a community which demonstrates how two or more organizations have effectively collaborated on a specific downtown preservation project or on-going downtown revitalization effort. Accepting the award were Mayor Steve Lawrence, City of The Dalles, and Matthew Klebes, Executive Director, The Dalles Main Street.
The Dalles Main Street and the City of The Dalles have developed a strong partnership that supports consistent, on-going downtown revitalization efforts. This partnership began with the funding and organizational support to bring several AmeriCorps Resource Assistance for Rural Environments (RARE) volunteers to The Dalles and gradually increasing each RARE's scope of work to focus on downtown revitalization. A major milestone of this partnership was the hiring of the first Executive Director of The Dalles Main Street organization. This partnership has continued to develop with additional funding for projects such as the Business Retention and Expansion (BR&E) program as well as an additional RARE volunteer under the Main Street organization.
The results of this partnership can be seen throughout the year and throughout the downtown. Visitors and community members can now find parklets, wayfinding kiosks, bike racks, holiday lights, and other improvements. Several new businesses have opened, others have moved and expanded. Several facade projects have been recently completed and interiors are being renovated.
"Perhaps most importantly," said Matthew Klebes, The Dalles Main Street Executive Director, "are the additional communication, support, and coordination of efforts and projects amongst the multiple nonprofits, City, business owners, property owners, and community citizens that this partnership has achieved."
"We are so pleased to recognize the deep and meaningful partnership that exists between The City of The Dalles and The Dalles Main Street," says Sheri Stuart, Oregon Main Street Coordinator. "Many cities help launch local main street efforts, but in The Dalles, the City and local program continue to strengthen this relationship providing both critical financial and philosophical support for on-going downtown revitalization efforts."
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Oregon Main Street is part of Heritage Programs, Oregon Parks and Recreation Department. For more information about Oregon Main Street, visit www.oregonheritage.org or contact Sheri Stuart at 503-986-0679 or sheri.stuart@oregon.gov.
The Dalles Main Street Promotional Booklet received an Excellence in Downtown Revitalization Award for "Best Community Education" from Oregon Main Street on September 15 during the Oregon Main Street Evening of Excellence Celebration in Astoria. This award is given to a targeted campaign that educates the community on a particular aspect of a Main Street program (e.g., Farmers' Market, community pride, beautification, Main Street advocacy, economic development, historic preservation, etc.). Accepting the award was Matthew Klebes, executive director, The Dalles Main Street.
One of the questions main street organizations are always asked is, "What is Main Street?" The Dalles Main Street Promotional Booklet was inspired by the need to answer the above question. The Dalles Main Street began to gather photos and design their booklet after being inspired by a booklet produced by a community in Washington. The booklet was drafted by Matthew Klebes, reviewed by the Promotion Committee, and then finalized and polished by Optimist Printers, a local downtown printing company. The booklet provides an overview of the Main Street Approach, committee accomplishments, project highlights, funding sources and spending breakdown, and how to support The Dalles Main Street.
"We are very proud of the booklet," said Matthew Klebes, The Dalles Main Street Executive Director. "We gave copies to each City Councilor and the City Manager during one of our updates to City Council, gave copies to our Board and several downtown businesses to share, and we distribute the booklets during events and festivals."
"This is one of the nicest organizational promotional pieces I have ever seen," says Sheri Stuart, Oregon Main Street Coordinator. "We are happy to give this award to The Dalles Main Street and to use the booklet as a model for communities throughout our Oregon Main Street Network."
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Oregon Main Street is part of Heritage Programs, Oregon Parks and Recreation Department. For more information about Oregon Main Street, visit www.oregonheritage.org or contact Sheri Stuart at 503-986-0679 or sheri.stuart@oregon.gov.
The Let It Glow project in downtown St. Helens received an Excellence in Downtown Revitalization Award for the "Best Downtown Beautification Project" from Oregon Main Street on September 15 during the Oregon Main Street Evening of Excellence Celebration in Astoria. This award is given to the Main Street organization that has designed and implemented an attractive stand-alone beautification project in the downtown. Improvements must be within the Main Street Program area. Eddie Dunton with the St. Helens Economic Development Corporation (SHEDCO) was on hand to accept the award.
Let It Glow is a two phase project designed to increase holiday spirit in St. Helens. Phase 1 is a holiday lights competition where main street businesses and residents decorate their property and compete for a prize. Phase 2 was the creation of 30 oversized Christmas ornaments, created by SHEDCO volunteers -- some of them first time volunteers with the organization, to hang in the public Courthouse Plaza. At the same time, the City of St. Helens invested in decorations for the Plaza. The combined efforts of SHEDCO and the City yielded incredible results. After hearing about the decorations, many residents came to the historic downtown to see the results. The project was such a success, that SHEDCO plans on making more ornaments for 2016 for placement along the entire main street corridor.
"This is a wonderful example of how to engage local community members in downtown revitalization efforts," says Sheri Stuart, Oregon Main Street Coordinator. "On a small budget, SHEDCO had a major impact in bringing residents downtown to experience the district and to see what downtown has to offer."
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Oregon Main Street is part of Heritage Programs, Oregon Parks and Recreation Department. For more information about Oregon Main Street, visit www.oregonheritage.org or contact Sheri Stuart at 503-986-0679 or sheri.stuart@oregon.gov.
The City of Roseburg Urban Renewal Agency received an Excellence in Downtown Revitalization Award for the "Best Streetscape Project" from Oregon Main Street on September 15 during the Oregon Main Street Evening of Excellence Celebration in Astoria. The award was given for the Oak/Kane/Washington street improvements. This award is given to the municipality or Main Street organization that has designed and implemented attractive and sympathetic improvements to improve the built environment in the downtown. Brian Davis, Community Development Director, City of Roseburg, was on hand to accept the award.
This $3 million project included streetscape improvements in the heart of downtown Roseburg. The design improved accessibility and function of the district, but took it a step farther than most projects of this scope. The intersection designs were public art in themselves representing the culture, history, and assets that are personal to Roseburg.
"What was the result? Amazing," said Roxana Grant, Executive Director, Downtown Roseburg Association. "The impact on downtown is 100% visually pleasing intersections and social spaces that improves the ease of access and gives locals a place to sit and relax for a few moments."
"We are pleased to recognize the City of Roseburg for this outstanding public amenity," says Sheri Stuart, Oregon Main Street Coordinator. "The streetscape includes elements that truly engages people in the downtown."
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Oregon Main Street is part of Heritage Programs, Oregon Parks and Recreation Department. For more information about Oregon Main Street, visit www.oregonheritage.org or contact Sheri Stuart at 503-986-0679 or sheri.stuart@oregon.gov.
Downtown Oregon City Association's The Oregon Trail(R) 5 K received an Excellence in Downtown Revitalization Award for "Outstanding Fundraiser" from Oregon Main Street on September 15 during the Evening of Excellence Celebration in Astoria. This award is granted to the Main Street organization that has displayed the most creativity and success in securing funds for its downtown program or a specific project. Lauren Dees with DOCA was on hand to accept the award.
The Oregon Trail Game 5k is a signature event designed to introduce a key demographic (young families) to downtown Oregon City and is DOCA's most important fundraiser. Based on the classic 1980's computer game, The Oregon Trail(R) Game 5K takes runners on a cross-country adventure from Missouri to Oregon, over mountains and across rivers, and to their final destination -- Oregon City! Runners make decisions along the course such as whether to ford a river, go hunting, and more. Each decision along the trail affects their ultimate fate. Runners receive a timed score as well as a game score.
"The Committee set initial goals of 200 registrants and net income of $10,000 for the first year event," said Jonathan Stone, DOCA Executive Director. "Instead, the event was a runaway success with over 630 registrants last year from 15 states and over $20,000 net income. This year, we grew the event to over 800 registrants."
"This event not only raises a great deal of money for DOCA but it puts downtown Oregon City on the map," says Sheri Stuart, Oregon Main Street Coordinator. "We are so pleased to recognize the amazing results achieved by the dozens of DOCA volunteers."
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Oregon Main Street is part of Heritage Programs, Oregon Parks and Recreation Department. For more information about Oregon Main Street, visit www.oregonheritage.org or contact Sheri Stuart at 503-986-0679 or sheri.stuart@oregon.gov.
Jonathan Stone with the Downtown Oregon City Association received an Excellence in Downtown Revitalization Award for "Main Street Manager of the Year" from Oregon Main Street on September 15 during the Evening of Excellence Celebration in Astoria. This award is given to a Main Street Manager from a Performing Main Street or Transforming Downtown community for the overall impact he has had on the local downtown revitalization program. Mr. Stone was on hand to accept the award.
Jonathan's success in shaping DOCA began with community-centered branding process that helped articulate who downtown Oregon City is -- a resilient, entrepreneurial historic community that manages to retain its small town, family-friendly charm within the Portland metro. Knowing this has allowed DOCA to pivot the organization toward a more successful model and focus, with programing and marketing designed to enhance and promote that identity. Other successes include expanding the capacity of the organization and bringing back an active committee structure, working with volunteers to create signature fundraising activities to improve the financial stability, creating an annual visioning session for community feedback and input, enhanced the reputation of DOCA as a resource for business and property owners, increased collaboration with other organizations.
"Jonathan took a struggling community organization and transformed it into a purpose driven nonprofit grounded in a strong sense of the kind of place community members want to see downtown Oregon City become," said DOCA board member Brad Forkner.
"Jonathan has truly helped DOCA build a strong foundation to help the program be sustainable over the long haul," says Sheri Stuart, Oregon Main Street Coordinator. "It is exciting to see the number of new people involved in downtown revitalization efforts. The energy is pretty contagious!"
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Oregon Main Street is part of Heritage Programs, Oregon Parks and Recreation Department. For more information about Oregon Main Street, visit www.oregonheritage.org or contact Sheri Stuart at 503-986-0679 or sheri.stuart@oregon.gov.
Doug Hood received an Excellence in Downtown Revitalization Award as the "Volunteer of the Year" from Oregon Main Street on September 15 during the Oregon Main Street Evening of Excellence Celebration in Astoria. This award is given to a Main Street volunteer from a Performing Main Street or Transforming Downtown community for their overall impact on the local downtown revitalization program. Mr. Hood was on hand to accept the award.
From the first organizational meeting in 2009, Doug Hood has been a quiet force behind the creation of the Newberg Downtown Coalition (NDC) and its day to day operation, volunteering a minimum of two half days a week doing whatever was needed. He set up and posts weekly to the NDC Facebook page, developed and maintains the website, and helps organize the downtown cleanup days twice per year.
"We fondly refer to Doug Hood as our Newberg Downtown Coalition 'geek,'" said Maureen Rogers, NDC board member.
As a demonstration of how deep his volunteer commitment to the Main Street program is, he recently turned down the offer of a stipend for his work. Instead, Doug saw the need for an assistant to perform front office duties and suggested the NDC use the funds instead to fill this role.
"Volunteers are the backbone of our main street programs," says Sheri Stuart, Oregon Main Street Coordinator. "Since 2010, our top two tier level communities have had 126,282 hours of volunteer time dedicated to downtown revitalization efforts. We applaud all the volunteers but especially congratulate Doug Hood this year. What impressed the award review committee was Doug's sustained efforts over a long period of time and to do jobs that are both essential but not necessarily visible."
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Oregon Main Street is part of Heritage Programs, Oregon Parks and Recreation Department. For more information about Oregon Main Street, visit www.oregonheritage.org or contact Sheri Stuart at 503-986-0679 or sheri.stuart@oregon.gov.
The JS Cooper Block in downtown Independence received an Excellence in Downtown Revitalization Award for "Outstanding Historic Renovation Project" from Oregon Main Street on September 15 during the Oregon Main Street Evening of Excellence Celebration in Astoria. This award recognizes an individual or business that has completed an outstanding historic renovation project in the Main Street Program area including both interior and exterior work. Bodie Bemrose was on hand to accept the award.
The JS Cooper Block is the key architectural feature in Independence's well-preserved historic downtown. For many years the Cooper Block languished. In 2014, a local developer was able to purchase the building. Restoration of the Cooper Block required a significant investment, but Florin Drutu, the new owner, and Bodie Bemrose, the owner's agent, understood the value that revitalized historic buildings can have. Drutu and Bemrose repointed all the brick, cleaned and repaired all the original windows upstairs (they remain functional double-hung windows with original glass) and restored all three original storefronts on the building. The City provided assistance with a $50,000 façade restoration grant, and also secured a $12,000 Diamonds in the Rough grant through Heritage Programs, Oregon Parks and Recreation Department, to supplement the owner's own funds.
"Downtown Independence has experienced a significant revitalization in the past 15 years," said Shawn Irvine, City of Independence, "but the Cooper Building was always the blemish on that positive story. The revival and restoration of this building continues the positive momentum and has truly inspired the community."
"We are very pleased to recognize the JS Cooper Block with this award," says Sheri Stuart, Oregon Main Street Coordinator. "To see this the historic character of the building restored is inspiring. And to see a mixed use project including downtown residential in a small community will be a great model for other communities in Oregon."
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Oregon Main Street is part of Heritage Programs, Oregon Parks and Recreation Department. For more information about Oregon Main Street, visit www.oregonheritage.org or contact Sheri Stuart at 503-986-0679 or sheri.stuart@oregon.gov.
The Rain Art project in downtown Hillsboro received an Excellence in Downtown Revitalization Award for the "Best Placemaking Project" from Oregon Main Street on September 15 during the Oregon Main Street Evening of Excellence Celebration in Astoria. This award will honor those who have implemented attractive and sympathetic improvements for a public area in the downtown. Karla Antonini with the City of Hillsboro and Saira Siddiqui with the Hillsboro Downtown Partnership were on hand to accept the award.
The City of Hillsboro commissioned Portland artist, Corey Lunn, to create several stenciled drawings on Main Street sidewalks using a special "hydrophobic" (waterproof) spray paint. It is clear and invisible when dry, but comes alive and is highly visible when it gets wet. During the Oregon rainy season, the inspired creation of hidden artwork magically appears on the streets of Downtown Hillsboro turning Main Street into an unexpected Art Walk. Community members loved the surprise and left comments on the Hillsboro Downtown Partnership's social media about the art, encouraging others to go out on rainy days to view it. Due to the success of the activity, the Hillsboro Downtown Partnership is interested in partnering with the City to make this an ongoing scavenger hunt throughout Downtown during the winter months.
"Not only was our Downtown a pilot for Hillsboro," said Saira Siddiqui, Executive Director, Hillsboro Downtown Partnership, "but Hillsboro became a pilot for other communities. We received calls from other Oregon Main Street communities asking how to get the project started."
"This is a great example of a Lighter, Quicker, Cheaper placemaking activity championed by Project for Public Spaces," says Sheri Stuart, Oregon Main Street Coordinator. "It encourages people to interact with the downtown in a fun and engaging way."
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Oregon Main Street is part of Heritage Programs, Oregon Parks and Recreation Department. For more information about Oregon Main Street, visit www.oregonheritage.org or contact Sheri Stuart at 503-986-0679 or sheri.stuart@oregon.gov.
The Estacada Development Association's Estacada Uncorked event received an Excellence in Downtown Revitalization Award for the "Best Special Event" from Oregon Main Street on September 15 during the Oregon Main Street Evening of Excellence Celebration in Astoria. This award recognizes excellence in a single, downtown special event, festival, or promotional series. Connie Redmond and Robyn Beisell who worked on the event were on hand to receive the award.
The spark for the Estacada Uncorked was to capture the imagination of young and old who live in or around Estacada with a social event -- part street fair, part wine or microbrew tasting. It is a family friendly event with a strong emphasis on children's activities and art. In fact, one local business took advantage of the children's events and brought in a children's librarian to do story hour activities and reportedly enjoyed the best revenue of any single day since opening her doors.
"Although we predicted 250 for our first year event," said Nancy Hoffman, Executive Director of the Estacada Development Association, "the actual turnout was close to 600. We had the sense people who attended were hungry for a downtown social event and this one hit the spot."
"The award review committee was particularly impressed with the support of local government -- every city councilor, the mayor, and the city manager attended the event," says Sheri Stuart, Oregon Main Street Coordinator.
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Oregon Main Street is part of Heritage Programs, Oregon Parks and Recreation Department. For more information about Oregon Main Street, visit www.oregonheritage.org or contact Sheri Stuart at 503-986-0679 or sheri.stuart@oregon.gov.
Francis Court received an Excellence in Downtown Revitalization Award for the "Best New Building Project" in a historic downtown from Oregon Main Street on September 15 during the Oregon Main Street Evening of Excellence Celebration in Astoria. This award is granted to the individual, business or organization that has constructed the best new building or building addition in a downtown area. The winner will exhibit design quality and an appropriate relationship to surrounding architecture. If building is occupied, special consideration may be given to the use of the new structure and how well the new business or tenant complements the existing business mix in the downtown. Paul Falsetto, architect on the project, was on hand to accept the award.
"Francis Court" is a new mixed use building integrated into an historic residential/commercial neighborhood including two residential apartments and two new commercial retail spaces in downtown Dayton. Architect Paul Falsetto worked directly with the two business owners to custom design their spaces. He also met with the bordering residential neighbor early in the process to share the design concept and incorporate her feedback. The design and construction were completed in a manner that complements the historic neighboring buildings, while adding valuable space that enhances downtown.
"Francis Court is the first new building constructed in the downtown core in five decades," said Kelly Haverkate, main street coordinator, Dayton Community Development Corporation. "It has sparked a lot of great community interest."
"This project has had a major impact on the district," says Sheri Stuart, Oregon Main Street Coordinator. "On any given day, the corner, which includes the adjacent Block House Café, is hopping with activity adding to the vitality in downtown Dayton."
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Oregon Main Street is part of Heritage Programs, Oregon Parks and Recreation Department. For more information about Oregon Main Street, visit www.oregonheritage.org or contact Sheri Stuart at 503-986-0679 or sheri.stuart@oregon.gov.
The Dayton Community Development Association's Artscape project received an Excellence in Downtown Revitalization Award for the "Best Image Event" from Oregon Main Street on September 15 during the Oregon Main Street Evening of Excellence Celebration in Astoria. This award recognizes excellence in a downtown image campaign, event, or series. Kelly Haverkate, main street coordinator, DCDA, was on hand to accept the award.
Dayton Artscape! was an opportunity to showcase local artists while adding to downtown's visual appeal. Local artists contributed works of art focused on the Dayton area, featuring cultural, agricultural, and historic images. The original artwork was replicated in light pole banners for the downtown. Both the artwork and the banners were auctioned to raise funds to support the DCDA in future Artscape events and other downtown initiatives. About 100 residents attended the event which netted $5,400.
"Dayton Artscape was a great success both financially and in community building," says Kelly Haverkate, main street manager, Dayton Community Development Association. "This type of event shows the community is continuing to come together in new and exciting ways."
"It was very exciting to see DCDA tackle this type of project," says Sheri Stuart, Oregon Main Street Coordinator. "They continue to raise the bar in projects to enhance the sense of place in downtown Dayton and to bring the community together. We commend them on their efforts."
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Oregon Main Street is part of Heritage Programs, Oregon Parks and Recreation Department. For more information about Oregon Main Street, visit www.oregonheritage.org or contact Sheri Stuart at 503-986-0679 or sheri.stuart@oregon.gov.
The Clothes Tree in downtown Corvallis received an Excellence in Downtown Revitalization Awards for "Best Façade Improvement" from Oregon Main Street on September 15 during the Oregon Main Street Evening of Excellence Celebration in Astoria. The award recognizes the best single exterior facade renovation project that enhances the commercial district in appearance or function and encourages further design improvements. This can include storefront renovation, upper floor renovation, or both. Lori Stephens with Broadleaf Architecture, was on hand to accept the award.
The Clothes Tree building in Corvallis, Oregon, underwent a major facade renovation in 2015-2016. The building was originally built in 1880 with a major renovation in the 1920s and another major renovation in 1963. The recent facade renovation included removal of the 1963 screening, odd adornment, and 1960's era sign. Underneath the screening was detailed plaster work and remnants of the words "First National Bank". Damaged plaster was repaired, but the details and wording were given a fresh coat of paint. Metal cornices and pilaster caps were added to the building to take the facade back to an earlier time period. 1960's adornment on the canopy was removed and the canopy was wrapped in a black metal. The owners added medallions to each pilaster that was meaningful to them. The 1960's windows and bottom brickwork were retained, but painted a black color. A corner clock from the 1920s was replicated and installed.
"Every building owner, throughout the life of a building, will leave their own impression on that building," said Lori Stephens, architect on the project. "The new owners of The Clothes Tree building have exposed those past impressions and have now added their own. In this way, historic buildings tell the story of change in a community."
Nicole Nystrom, owner of The Clothes Tree, says she was inspired by seeing historic photos of the building, and wanted to return the building to something she felt would be timeless and more appropriate with its historic downtown context.
"The restoration of an anchor store such as The Clothes Tree certainly has a major visual impact on a downtown district," says Sheri Stuart, Oregon Main Street Coordinator. "Above and beyond the thoughtful restoration process in this case is the economic impact on the district. The owner has seen increased traffic and is attracting new clientele. That's exactly what we hope to achieve in our main street communities."
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Oregon Main Street is part of Heritage Programs, Oregon Parks and Recreation Department. For more information about Oregon Main Street, visit www.oregonheritage.org or contact Sheri Stuart at 503-986-0679 or sheri.stuart@oregon.gov.
Running Princess Apparel in downtown Corvallis received an Excellence in Downtown Revitalization Award for "Best New Business" from Oregon Main Street on September 15 during the Oregon Main Street Evening of Excellence Celebration in Astoria. The Best New Business Award recognizes an outstanding new downtown business that opened between July 1, 2015 and June 30, 2016. Lu An Carone-Rhodes, Owner, Running Princess Apparel, was on hand to accept the award.
"I am honored and thrilled to receive this award," said Lu An Carone-Rhodes, Owner, Running Princess Apparel. "While I feel very humble, I am also extremely delighted with my business and a long-time supporter of both downtown Corvallis and Albany."
Running Princess Apparel is a new athleisure wear store in downtown Corvallis. Lu An bought the small, online company in 2015. She expanded the ecommerce side of the business, but dreamed of having her own storefront. Knowing location was very important, she waited six months for the perfect spot to open up. In the new location, she was able to add new lines of athleisure wear and now employs two full-time and four part-time employees.
But the impact on downtown goes beyond the storefront. They started three walking groups that all begin and end at the store and wind through downtown. They are in the process of partnering with others to provide health and fitness workshops and classes in their store. They also offer package pick-up for races they sponsor which can bring anywhere from 100-500 people into the downtown core.
"Running Princess Apparel is a wonderful addition to downtown Corvallis," says Sheri Stuart, Oregon Main Street Coordinator. "Not only have they created a warm and inviting environment, but they have created new jobs and are bringing new customers to the district."
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Oregon Main Street is part of Heritage Programs, Oregon Parks and Recreation Department. For more information about Oregon Main Street, visit www.oregonheritage.org or contact Sheri Stuart at 503-986-0679 or sheri.stuart@oregon.gov.
The Carlton Pool House project in downtown Carlton received an Excellence in Downtown Revitalization Award for the "Outstanding Special Project" from Oregon Main Street on September 15 during the Oregon Main Street Evening of Excellence Celebration in Astoria. The Special Project award recognizes a special one-time project or activity that positively affects the downtown revitalization effort. Patrick J. Swanick, Chair, Pool Project Citizen Advisory Committee, was on hand to accept the award.
The Carlton Pool House, in the heart of downtown, was on the verge of collapse after 80+ years of heavy use. The facility was no longer compliant with current building codes and the structure was deteriorating. It was not possible to restore the building due to the sub-standard materials used in its original construction and its poor condition. As the Pool House declined, the building became a very visible eyesore for all to see on a daily basis. And, without a functioning Pool House, the public pool could not be used according to Oregon state law. After a failed bond effort, the City put together an advisory committee to refine the design scope and implement a multi-faceted community outreach strategy, including hosting several fundraisers.
"The New Carlton Pool House Project exemplifies the dedication and perseverance of a community that is focused on its future, while respecting and preserving the many contributions from its past," said Patrick J. Swanick, Chair, Pool Project Citizen Advisory Committee. "With this major project successfully completed, Carlton's downtown has been substantially improved for decades to come."
"We were pleased to recognize the City of Carlton for their efforts to replace the Carlton Pool House," says Sheri Stuart, Oregon Main Street Coordinator. "The outstanding community involvement is a model for other communities."
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Oregon Main Street is part of Heritage Programs, Oregon Parks and Recreation Department. For more information about Oregon Main Street, visit www.oregonheritage.org or contact Sheri Stuart at 503-986-0679 or sheri.stuart@oregon.gov.
Sweet Wife Baking received an Excellence in Downtown Revitalization Award for the "Business of the Year" from Oregon Main Street on September 15 during the Oregon Main Street Evening of Excellence Celebration in Astoria. This award goes to the business that demonstrates a commitment to the community, exhibits exemplary customer service, strengthens the business mix, and supports its employees. On hand to accept the award were owners Jenny Mowe and Loran Joseph.
"Sweet Wife's contribution to Baker City's Main Street cannot be over stated" says Mayor Kim Mosier. "They provide desserts to Main Street restaurants, give people a reason to visit the historic district on a Sunday, have contributed to the renovation of a historic property, and have added jobs to our local economy. They participate in in our First Friday Art Walks, Third Thursday Ladies' Night, and our gastronomical festival Taste of Baker. Jenny and Loran have even commissioned a local artist to create distinctive pieces for display on the walls of the retail shop. This business exemplifies what Baker City wants to see for our Main Street Program."
Sweet Wife Baking began as a simple baking project by Jenny Mowe as a work-from-home mom in 2009 when she began baking desserts for local Main Street restaurants. Over the years, she and her husband grew the wholesale business. In 2015, Sweet Wife Baking opened a retail outlet in the in a historic building they renovated for their purposes. They added five additional employees and added seating. On days they are open, they have long lines of excited patrons. They have proven that even in a small, rural town where money is tight, people recognize and will pay for quality.
"Sweet Wife Baking epitomizes what it takes to be a healthy and vibrant downtown business," says Sheri Stuart, Oregon Main Street Coordinator. "They have filled a niche market and have used their enthusiasm and energy to help revitalize a historic building, adding much needed jobs to the local economy."
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Oregon Main Street is part of Heritage Programs, Oregon Parks and Recreation Department. For more information about Oregon Main Street, visit www.oregonheritage.org or contact Sheri Stuart at 503-986-0679 or sheri.stuart@oregon.gov.
The Astoria Downtown Historic District Association's Volunteer Appreciation Night received an Excellence in Downtown Revitalization Award for "Best Volunteer Development" from Oregon Main Street on September 15 during the Oregon Main Street Evening of Excellence Celebration in Astoria. This award honors the Main Street organization that has developed the most thorough effort to recruit, train, motivate, or recognize volunteers. On hand to accept the award was Blue Anderson with the Astoria Downtown Historic District Association.
ADHDA's Organization Committee hosts an annual Volunteer Appreciation Night and Awards Ceremony to recognize key individuals who were integral in the program's accomplishments and successes of the previous year. More than 100 volunteers attended the event in 2016.
"ADHDA would not be where it is today without the support and dedication of our volunteers," said Alana Garner, Executive Director. "The volunteer and community spirit in downtown Astoria is contagious. Each year there are many volunteers who go above and beyond their volunteer duties."
"Volunteers are the backbone of our main street programs," says Sheri Stuart, Oregon Main Street Coordinator. "Since 2010, our top two tier level communities have had 126,282 hours of volunteer time dedicated to downtown revitalization efforts. An often overlooked task, but essential to maintaining volunteer support is to remember to recognize those who give their time and energy -- this is something Astoria does so well. The award nominating committee was particularly impressed with the creativity of the award names and descriptions making sure they are unique to each volunteer and their contributions."
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Oregon Main Street is part of Heritage Programs, Oregon Parks and Recreation Department. For more information about Oregon Main Street, visit www.oregonheritage.org or contact Sheri Stuart at 503-986-0679 or sheri.stuart@oregon.gov.
The Astoria Downtown Historic District Association's ShoreStyle Wedding Faire received an Excellence in Downtown Revitalization Award for "Best Economic Vitality Activity" from Oregon Main Street on September 15 during the Oregon Main Street Evening of Excellence Celebration in Astoria. This award is granted to the Main Street organization that has created and implemented the best downtown retention or business recruitment activity. On hand to accept the award were event chairs Rebecca Johnson and Jessica Newhall.
ShoreStyle Wedding Faire was created to showcase the Columbia-Pacific region as a premier wedding destination to couples and event planners throughout the Pacific Northwest. It attracted people from Portland, Salem, and Bend as well as people from Washington, Idaho, and California. The Faire also embraced other event-related gatherings such as graduations, milestone anniversaries and birthdays, and retirement parties.
"Not only was the event successful at promoting our region," said Alana Garner, Executive Director of the Astoria Downtown Historic District Association, "it also exceeded fundraising goals for ADHDA by 70%."
"We are happy to present this award for the ShoreStyle Wedding Faire," says Sheri Stuart, Oregon Main Street Coordinator. "We encourage communities to look at their business clusters to identify opportunities to market to a new customer niche. That's exactly what they achieved with ShoreStyle."
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Oregon Main Street is part of Heritage Programs, Oregon Parks and Recreation Department. For more information about Oregon Main Street, visit www.oregonheritage.org or contact Sheri Stuart at 503-986-0679 or sheri.stuart@oregon.gov.
Fort George Brewery + Public House received an Excellence in Downtown Revitalization Award for the "Business of the Year" from Oregon Main Street on September 15 during the Oregon Main Street Evening of Excellence Celebration in Astoria. This award goes to the business that demonstrates a commitment to the community, exhibits exemplary customer service, strengthens the business mix, and supports its employees. On hand to accept the award was owner Jack Harris.
"Fort George Brewery + Public House's owners have been critical partners in the revitalization efforts of ADHDA," says Alana Garner, executive director, Astoria Downtown Historic District Association. Harris, a former ADHDA board member, is instrumental in planning and organizing ADHDA's largest fundraiser, the Pacific Northwest Brew Cup. He and other key staff also participate in ADHDA's second largest fundraiser, the Jane Barnes Revue, as well as serving on committees and the board.
The Fort George building was an automotive service station until the late 1990's. It sat vacant and sadly neglected until 2007 when brewery owners Jack Harris and Chris Nemowill transformed it into the home of the Fort George Brewery. Now spanning an entire city block, featuring three separate eateries and a staff of over 100, Fort George Brewery + Public House is a cornerstone of downtown Astoria. The business is dedicated to keeping Astoria as its home town. It hosts a free weekly public lecture series, live music, and a newly created monthly Benefit Night to support local fundraising needs.
"We are so pleased to recognize Fort George Brewery + Public House with this award," says Sheri Stuart, Oregon Main Street Coordinator. "From bringing vitality to this long vacant space, to creating new jobs, to supporting community nonprofits, they have truly become an outstanding community partner."
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Oregon Main Street is part of Heritage Programs, Oregon Parks and Recreation Department. For more information about Oregon Main Street, visit www.oregonheritage.org or contact Sheri Stuart at 503-986-0679 or sheri.stuart@oregon.gov.
SALEM -- Oregon Main Street announced its 2016 "Excellence in Downtown Revitalization" award winners last night at the Evening of Excellence Celebration in Astoria, Oregon.
The nineteen projects, businesses, & individuals honored are:
Outstanding Historic Renovation
- JS Cooper Block, Independence
Best Façade Improvement
- The Clothes Tree, Corvallis
Best Streetscape Project
- City of Roseburg Urban Renewal Agency
Outstanding New Building
- Francis Court, Dayton
Best Beautification Project
- Let It Glow, St. Helens Economic Development Council
Best Placemaking Project
- Hillsboro Rain Art, City of Hillsboro
Outstanding Special Project
- The Carlton Pool House, Carlton
Outstanding Partnership
- The Dalles Main Street and City of The Dalles
Main Street Manager of the Year
- Jonathan Stone, Downtown Oregon City Association
Main Street Volunteer of the Year
- Doug Hood, Newberg Downtown Coalition
Outstanding Fundraiser
- The Oregon Trail(R) Game 5 K, Downtown Oregon City Association
Best Image Activity
- Dayton Artscape, Dayton Community Development Association
Best Special Event
- Estacada Uncorked
Best New Business
- Running Princess Apparel, Corvallis
Business of the Year - tie
- Sweet Wife Baking, Baker City
- Fort George Brewery + Public House, Astoria
Best Economic Vitality Activity
- ShoreStyle Wedding Faire, Astoria Downtown Historic District Association
Best Volunteer Development
- Astoria Volunteer Appreciation Night, Astoria Downtown Historic District Association
Best Community Education
- The Dalles Main Street Promotional Booklet
"We are very pleased to recognize the outstanding individuals, businesses, and projects in communities participating in the Oregon Main Street Network," said Sheri Stuart, state coordinator, Oregon Main Street. "They represent some of the hard work, creativity, and investment happening across the state to strengthen and revitalize our historic downtowns."
The wide range of awards is reflective of the comprehensive Four-Point Approach(R) to downtown revitalization developed by the National Main Street Center. This model is used by the communities participating in the three-tier Main Street Track of Oregon Main Street Network. From 2010 to 2015, communities participating in the Performing Main Street and Transforming Downtown levels of the Network have seen $62,943,871 in private building improvement projects, $75,088,333 in public projects, 863 private rehab projects, 468 net new businesses, and 2,244 net new jobs.
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Oregon Main Street is part of Heritage Programs, Oregon Parks and Recreation Department. For additional information, visit www.oregonheritage.org.
BUXTON, OR -- The Salmonberry Trail Intergovernmental Agency (STIA) will host its annual Salmonberry Coalition meeting Oct. 7 from 10 a.m. to noon at the Mt. Dale Meeting Hall at LL Stub Stewart State Park, 30380 NW Hwy 47, in Buxton.
The agenda will include updates on current ongoing trail projects, including the Salmonberry Trail Brownfields Study, the Tillamook County Local Plan Adoption Project and the Coast Segment Planning Study, as well as updates on current fundraising efforts. There will be a brief STIA business meeting at the end of the program discussing status of the railbanking effort.
The Salmonberry Coalition is a stakeholder group consisting of public and private partners focused on making the Salmonberry Trail a reality. The 84-mile Salmonberry Trail corridor will connect the cities of Tillamook and Banks and cross through two counties, passing by the Oregon coastline, fisheries, farmland and the rugged Oregon Coast Range. The route follows the Port of Tillamook Bay Railway, which closed in 2007 after experiencing catastrophic storm damage. The STIA was established to promote and facilitate coordinated direction and guidance in planning, development and maintenance of the multi-use trail.
For more information, contact Dennis Wiley, Salmonberry Trail Project Manager at 503-986-0723 or dennis.wiley@oregon.gov.
The draft rules for a portion of the Molalla River recently designated by Governor Brown as a State Scenic Waterway are the topic of a Sept. 27 rules hearing hosted by Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD). The meeting will be at 6 p.m. at the Molalla Public Library, 201 E 5th St. The proposed rules focus on classification of river sections and specific management practices to maintain the character of the river in those sections.
A rules advisory committee reviewed the draft management plan and draft rules developed in 2015 for the section of the Molalla between the Table Rock Fork and the Glen Avon Bridge and provided comments on the impact of those rules on both land managers and the public earlier this summer. Members of the public are encouraged to attend the upcoming hearing to provide feedback on the draft rules. Comments will also be accepted in writing until 5 p.m. on Sept. 30 and should be sent to: Oregon Parks and Recreation Department, Attn: Richard Walkoski, 725 Summer St NE, Suite C, Salem OR 97301; or e-mailed to OPRD.publiccomment@oregon.gov . Scenic waterways staff will incorporate input into the draft rules for OPRD commissioners to review later this year.
The State Scenic Waterways Program seeks to balance protection of natural resources, scenic value and recreation. Scenic waterway designations do not affect existing water rights. The draft plan, rules and other information are available at http://bit.ly/scenicwaterways. For more information on the rulemaking process, please contact Richard Walkoski at 503-986-0748 or richard.walkoski@oregon.gov.
The draft rules for a portion of the Chetco River recently designated by Governor Brown as a State Scenic Waterway are the topic of a Sept. 19 hearing hosted by Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD). The meeting will be at 6 p.m. at the Brookings Public Library, 405 Alder St. The proposed rules focus on classification of river sections and specific management practices to maintain the character of the river in those sections.
A rules advisory committee reviewed the draft management plan and draft rules developed in 2015 for the section of the Chetco between the Steel Bridge and Alfred A. Loeb State Park and provided comments on the effects of those rules on both land managers and the public earlier this summer. Members of the public are encouraged to attend the upcoming hearing to provide feedback on the draft rules. Comments will also be accepted in writing until 5 p.m. Sept. 30 and should be sent to: Oregon Parks and Recreation Department, Attn: Richard Walkoski, 725 Summer St NE, Suite C, Salem OR 97301; or e-mailed to OPRD.publiccomment@oregon.gov . Scenic waterways staff will incorporate comments into the draft rules for OPRD Commissioners to review later this year.
The State Scenic Waterways Program seeks to balance protection of natural resources, scenic value and recreation. Scenic waterway designations do not affect existing water rights. The draft plan, rules and other information are available at http://bit.ly/scenicwaterways. For more information on the rulemaking process, please contact Richard Walkoski at 503-986-0748 or richard.walkoski@oregon.gov.
Happy Canyon Pageant and Wild West Show, a community cultural event accompanying the Pendleton Round-Up, marks its 100th year with an Oregon Heritage Tradition designation by the Oregon Heritage Commission.
Other Oregon Heritage Traditions include the Oregon State Fair, the Pendleton Round-Up, the Klamath Basin Potato Festival and the Linn County Pioneer Picnic.
The pageant takes place September 14 through 17 in Pendleton. A banner will presented Friday evening before the show.
"The designation recognizes those traditions that have helped define the state," said Eric Martin, the commission's chair. "This event truly celebrates what is local heritage in Oregon."
This event began as a way to entertain Pendleton Round-Up fans in the evening. It started as just a wild-west show, but in 1916 the show was scripted to include the Tribal portion. The founders portrayed the Cayuse, Umatilla and Walla Walla cultures for all the world to see. This show was a distinct opportunity to demonstrate for the non?Indian audience a way of life they couldn't learn about anywhere else??with local Tribal people presenting their own culture and history.
The show continues to share the local history and culture with thousands in its performances and through participation in community events throughout the year.
"To receive this designation is such an honor for Happy Canyon." said Happy Canyon President JJ Spriet. "We have to thank the visionaries, Roy Raley and Anna Minthorn Wannassay, who wrote our show, and the thousands of volunteers who have made it happen since 1916." Spriet said.
An Oregon Heritage Tradition must have been in continuous operation for more than 50 years, demonstrate a public profile and reputation that distinguishes it from more routine events, and add to the livability and identity of the state. A list of Tradition designations is available at http://www.oregon.gov/oprd/HCD/OHC/pages/oht.aspx .
The Oregon Heritage Commission coordinates efforts to solve statewide heritage issues through grants, education, and advocacy, and also promotes heritage tourism efforts. ###
News Release
Oregon Parks and Recreation Dept.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Sept. 6, 2016
Contact: Chris Havel, OPRD, 503-931-2590 (cell)
Cape Kiwanda vandalism update 1: Oregon State Police taking lead on investigation
Pacific City OR -- The Oregon State Police will lead an investigation into vandalism of a natural rock formation at Cape Kiwanda Stats Natural Area (http://bit.ly/capekiwandavandalism). The investigation will determine how to pursue possible violations of state park rules and Oregon laws in response to video showing visitors to the park pushing the landmark sandstone feature, known as the duckbill, to the ground in late August.
The investigation will be based out of the Oregon State Police Tillamook Worksite. The State Police will be working in close concert with the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department and the Tillamook District Attorney's office.
The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department and Oregon State Police extend their thanks and gratitude to people who have already come forward with information. People with information about the incident can email tips to osppio@state.or.us, or call the Oregon State Police Northern Command Center dispatch at 1-800-452-7888. All calls are kept confidential.
There is no new information about the people pictured in the video at this time.
The Oswald West State Park suspension bridge spanning Necarney Creek will close for rehabilitation work Sept. 12-16. The work will include replacing the trusses, deck surface and handrails. The project was originally scheduled for late August, but was pushed back because inmate labor resources were needed on wildfires in other areas of the state.
Last rehabilitated in 1998, the project is a top priority and necessary for visitor safety, said Park Manager Ben Cox. Oregon Parks and Recreation Department employees and a Department of Corrections inmate crew will complete the $7,500 project.
Cox recommends visitors and Oregon Coast Trail hikers use the beach as a detour via the South Beach Access Trail and the Shorts Sand Beach Trail.
News Release
Oregon Parks and Recreation Department
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Sept. 5, 2016
Pacific City OR -- A natural rock formation at Cape Kiwanda State Natural Area was found in pieces last week. The park is on the Oregon coast in southern Tillamook County. The sandstone pedestal, known locally as the duckbill and roughly 7-10' across, was located in an area of the park fenced off for safety.
At the time it was discovered, there was no sign the formation had been vandalized. Since then, media in Oregon have obtained a video apparently showing a group of visitors pushing the formation to the ground.
The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department, in cooperation with the Oregon State Police, will review the incident immediately and decide how best to respond. The department takes vandalism of a state park's natural features seriously.
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News Release // Oregon Parks and Recreation Department // FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE // September 5, 2016
Oregon State Parks and Recreation Commission will meet September 13-14 in Bend
Bend OR - The Oregon State Parks and Recreation Commission will hold its fourth meeting of the year Sept. 13-14 in Bend, Oregon.
On Sept. 13, Commissioners will gather at 8 a.m. tour of state parks in the area, followed by a work session and training at 1:30 p.m. with the director of Washington State Parks.
On Sept. 14, Commissioners will convene an executive session at 8:30 a.m. at the Riverbed Community Room, 799 Southwest Columbia Street, to discuss real estate and legal issues. Executive sessions are closed to the public. A public business meeting will begin at 10:30 a.m. at the same location. The agenda includes several information and action items from agency staff, including requests to:
* Approve a master plan for Sitka Sedge State Natural Area, a not-yet-open 357-acre park in southern Tillamook County. The plan helps guide future recreation use and resource management on this ecologically diverse property that encompasses beaches, dunes, woodlands and both fresh- and saltwater marshes. Commission approval will allow the department to move forward on opening the park in 2017. OPRD purchased the property in September 2014 with Oregon Lottery dollars dedicated to state parks. More information is online https://www.oregon.gov/oprd/PLANS/Pages/Beltz-Property.aspx
* Adopt minor changes to make the reservation process more efficient for customers and the agency.
* Award more than $850,000 in parks grants to local governments through the Local Government Grants Program, funded by Oregon Lottery dollars.
Following the business meeting, commissioners will attend a 4:30 p.m. reception at Hollinshead Park, 1235 NE Jones Road.
The draft agenda and meeting are online at http://bit.ly/september2016agenda. People who plan to present testimony are requested to provide 15 copies of their statement to Commission Assistant Jen Busey at jen.busey@oregon.gov for distribution to the Commissioners before the meeting. Those needing special accommodations to attend should also contact Busey by email, or by calling 503-986-0719, at least three days in advance.
The Oregon State Parks and Recreation Commission (www.oregon.gov/oprd/Pages/commission.aspx) promotes outdoor recreation and heritage by establishing policies, adopting rules, and setting the budget for the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department. The seven members are appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the Oregon Senate. They serve four-year terms and meet several times a year at locations across the state.