Portland, OR. Girl Scouts of Oregon and Southwest Washington have donated more than 30,000 boxes of Girl Scout Cookies for distribution to homebound seniors through Meals on Wheels People, more than doubling their total donation in 2021. On May 24th, local Girl Scouts visited the Meals on Wheels People Central Kitchen in Southwest Portland to assist with the large cookie delivery, and help pack meal deliveries for recipients, including boxes of Lemon-Ups Girl Scout Cookies in each delivery.
Girl Scout Selling Cookies During the Annual Sale Period
“We are so grateful for the generosity of the Girl Scouts organization,” said Suzanne Washington, Chief Executive Officer at Meals on Wheels People. “Donations like this inspire us; we believe it showcases the idea that people of any age can make a difference in their community. This donation allows us to provide homebound older adults in our community with some of their favorite treats, such as Thin Mints and Samoas—and it considerably reduces our costs for providing desserts with our meals, freeing up funds that we can reinvest into other critical programs.”
During the annual Girl Scout Cookie Program, customers can opt to donate their purchased cookies through the Girl Scout Gift of Caring program.
More than 57,000 boxes of cookies donated through the Digital Cookie platform are distributed to older adults and people in need throughout the region via several partnerships with social service agencies, including Meals on Wheels People.
“We’re delighted to present this Girl Scout Cookie donation on behalf of the Girl Scouts who worked hard to collect them and the generous customers who donated them,” said Shannon Evers, Chief Executive Officer at Girl Scouts of Oregon and Southwest Washington. “Girls learn so much by participating in the Girl Scout Cookie Program—from goal setting to money management—and with the Gift of Caring program, they also learn first-hand the power of working together with others to give back to their community. It’s heart-warming to think about the joy these cookies will bring to local seniors, and our girls are truly proud of their part in that.”
Esther (Essie) Kiblinger, a 12-year-old troop member with the Girl Scouts of Oregon and Southwest Washington shared a heartwarming interaction with a customer this year: “When I called [a customer] to ask if she wanted to purchase cookies, she said she didn’t want to buy any cookies for herself, but when I told her about the option to donate cookies to Meals on Wheels People, she felt really passionate about the cause and decided to purchase $200 worth of cookies to donate to Meals on Wheels People. It made me really happy to know she wanted to support such a great organization, and I loved hearing her story.”
About Meals on Wheels People: Meals on Wheels People has been changing lives, one meal at a time, since 1970. We provide more than a meal to thousands of older adults in the greater Portland metro area. Our service not only alleviates hunger and social isolation but allows seniors to live independently with dignity in their own homes. Aging in place reduces depression, falls, and hospitalization as well as the high cost of institutional care. For more information, visit mowp.org.
About the Girl Scout Cookie Program: A little more than a century ago, girls began participating in what would evolve into the largest entrepreneurial training program for girls in the world: the Girl Scout Cookie Program. To learn more about the history of the Girl Scout Cookie Program, visit girlscoutcookies.org.
About Girl Scouts of Oregon and Southwest Washington: In partnership with more than 6,800 adult members, Girl Scouts of Oregon and Southwest Washington prepares more than 11,500 girls in grades K-12 for a lifetime of leadership, adventure, and success. GSOSW’s programs in civic engagement, financial literacy, the outdoors, and STEM serve girls in 35 counties in Oregon, and Clark, Klickitat and Skamania counties in Southwest Washington. The Girl Scout mission is to build girls of courage, confidence, and character, who make the world a better place. For more information or to join Girl Scouts today, visit girlscoutsosw.org.
Portland, OR. The Junior League of Portland celebrated women leaders at its Annual Luncheon at the Portland Golf Club after 2 years of being canceled due to the pandemic. The nonprofit organization gathered generations of women leaders to honor the significant achievements of honorees; Jillian De Garmo 2022, Julie Branford 2020 and Kaycee Wiita 2021. Above, Judy Jorgensen, Sustainer Representative & Board Member, Jillian De Garmo, 2022 Sustainer of the Year, and Alex Johnson, 2022 Junior League President pose for a photo during the May 19th, luncheon.
The Junior League of Portland, Oregon is an organization of women committed to promoting voluntarism, developing the potential of women, and improving communities through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers.
Julie Branford, 2020 Sustainer of the Year, and Alex Johnson, 2022 Junior League President
Award winner for 2020, Julie Branford has been with the Junior League since 1977. Julie Branford is a trailblazer and has been pushing the envelope. As a working professional during her time as an active, when most women in the League did not pursue work outside of the home, she successfully challenged the Junior League of Seattle’s rule that members were required to move to Sustainer status when they turned 40. Outside the League, she has received numerous accolades for her service to several community organizations. One of Julie’s main volunteer activities includes being a Past President and board member of the BRAINet (Brain Research Awareness and Information Network), a community outreach group for the neuroscience department at OHSU. She has sat on the Board of Trustees for Willamette University for 13 years, earning the title of Life Trustee Emeritus. Her board experience includes being Alumni Association President for two years, the Alumni Association President for Cleveland High School, and receiving the Distinguished Alumni Award Committee Chair award for her outstanding service and commitment. Julie has also held several leadership positions with the Multnomah Athletic Club, including Membership Committee and Human Resources Committee for the Board, the Communities Committee, and House Committee. She was President of the Canyon Creek Homeowners Association for four years and has sat on the Governance Committee for Nordic Northwest. Recently Julie has been involved with the ARCS Foundation (Advancing Science in America). Oregon Chapter and is their current President.
Kaycee Wiita, 2021 Sustainer of the Year and Alex Johnson, 2022 Junior League President
Award winner for 2021, Kaycee Wiita has been a dedicated member of the Junior League since 1988. She has served on numerous committees within both the Junior League of Orange County and Portland. She has served as the JLP President from 2003-2004 as well as Treasurer and the Nominating Chair. She has also taken on leadership roles as the At-Large Director and Area VI Director for the Association of Junior Leagues International. Kaycee served on the board of directors of the Association of Junior Leagues International (New York, NY) where she served on the Linkage and the Advancement Committees. As one of her peers stated; “She has been an outstanding member of the community doing exceptional volunteer work to benefit immeasurable numbers of people. She has always been willing to step forward to lend her exceptional skills and talents.
Jillian De Garmo, Judy Jorgensen, Kaycee Wiita, Julie Branford and Alex Johnson
A few of the honorable mentions regarding the leadership attributes of the honorees: Award winner for 2022, Jillian De Garmo has been a dedicated member of the Junior League of Portland, having served as the President in 2002-03, a Chair of the Sustainer Engagement Committee in 2017-2018, and the Sustainer Representative to the Board from 2019-2021. As one of Jill’s many nominators stated, “For over 20 years Jill’s wisdom and continuity have been instrumental in moving JLP forward to be a viable and modern organization that trains women to be leaders in the community while addressing pressing community needs.”
From Junior League of Portland:
A WORD FROM THE PRESIDENT
Since our founding in 1910, the members of the Junior League of Portland have been developing programs and partnering with organizations in the area to improve our community. Our mission is to promote voluntarism, develop the potential of women, and improve the community through effective action and leadership of trained volunteers. The Junior League is a women’s organization for leadership and volunteerism. It is a place to find like-minded women who value making a positive difference in the community, serving their community, and developing their leadership skills.
Junior League of Portland is the fourth oldest League in the Association of Junior Leagues International and the first on the west coast. Through our 110 years, several of Portland’s nonprofit programs and agencies that have improved the well-being of women, children, and families in the Portland community can attribute their roots to the Junior League of Portland. Some of our accomplishments are programs and services such as Kids on the Block, establishing Race for the Cure in Portland, and launching the “Between the Lines” program.
Our members are passionately committed to our community and are accomplished leaders who have used their Junior League training to develop programs, serve on nonprofit boards, serve in public office, and enhance their leadership skills related to their professional work.
Our current focus is Ending the Cycle of Violence Against Women and Children. We regularly review our focus to be sure we are helping to close the gap on unmet or underserved needs in our community. We are in the process of a full assessment of our Portland community to be sure we are active in serving the current needs of our community.
The Junior League of Portland welcomes all women who work to make a difference in their community through volunteering and activism. If impacting your community in a positive way and developing or refining your leadership skills while having fun with remarkable women interests you, the Junior League of Portland may be the volunteer organization for you!
The work of the Junior League of Portland could not be accomplished without the support of our partner organizations, generous donors, passionate advocates, and friends. Thank you for choosing to support the Junior League of Portland and joining us as we continue to improve our wonderful community.
Portland, OR. Neighborhood House hosted its 3rd annual ‘Welcome Home Hour of Hope’ Fundraiser on May 19th. This virtual event brought over 200 guests and sponsors together to support the organization’s essential anti-poverty, equity-promoting services. Hosted by KOIN’s Ken Boddie, the event raised $170,000. Neighborhood House was proud to share stories on the power of care, highlighting the parents, staff, and community leaders who support the organization’s parenting education and afterschool programs. Above, KOIN News Anchor Ken Boddie, Neighborhood House Executive Director Chris Chiacchierini, and Neighborhood House Board Member Meredith Bureau work behind the scenes at the virtual fundraiser. (Photo credit, Ellen Field)
The organization also announced the start of its Growing Our Village Capital Campaign. This campaign aims to raise funds to support the purchase and renovation of a new, improved space for Neighborhood House’s Food Pantry and Aging Services programs. Those interested in learning more about this innovative project can visit www.nhpdx.org.
A still from a video story on Neighborhood House’s afterschool programs for working families.
From Neighborhood House:
Our Mission:
Bringing Neighbors Together
Neighborhood House brings neighbors together to reduce hunger and homelessness and to educate both young and old, strengthening our community by providing resources to support self-reliance, economic independence, and dignity in people of all ages and backgrounds.
We Believe in Our Core
Neighborhood House is committed to offering innovative and high-quality education, anti-poverty and senior support services. Our core strengths are:
Client-focused services: Every neighbor’s different. We reach people where they are to effectively facilitate change.
Connection: We are connected to our neighbors. When we help people in need, our entire community is strengthened.
Results: Our programs make a measurable difference in the lives of our clients and in the community.
Providing Support to Overcome Everyday Challenges
Neighborhood House believes that with the right support system, anyone can overcome serious challenges in their everyday lives. As the leading Portland-area non-profit social service provider, we deliver innovative, life-changing programs for low-income people of all ages and backgrounds.
Our programs strive to prepare children for success in school and life, help families move beyond poverty, and support seniors who wish to continue living independently.
Our dedicated team serves over 8,000 low-income children, families, and seniors each year across the greater Portland area, representing a diverse mix of ethnicities and cultures, including recent immigrants from Latin America, Africa, Russia, and the Middle East.
Portland, OR. William Temple House welcomed over 200 guests at its Style & Sustainability for Social Good Luncheon. The event featured thrift store shopping tips from local “Style Activist” Judith Rizzio and a fashion show demonstrating high-quality sustainable style. Guests learned more about the nonprofit’s food pantry, counseling, thrift store, and social services at the April 19th benefit. It raised $131,700 to support the essential services provided by William Temple House. Above Thrift Store employee Damon Smythe models fashions from the William Temple House Thrift Store, as presenter Judith Rizzio explains the ensemble. (Photo credit, Alejandro Rosas – William Temple House)
Thrift Store employee Zuzu Owle modeling fashions from the William Temple House Thrift Store
Thrift Store employee Zuzu Owle modeling fashions from the William Temple House Thrift Store
Guests watching presenter Judith Rizzio, Style Activist, at the Style & Sustainability for Social Good luncheon
From William Temple House:
William Temple House provides food, counseling, clothing, and household items to Portland-area neighbors to strengthen our community. We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization—Federal Tax ID 93-0559964.
Beaverton, OR. The Patricia Reser Center for the Arts (“The Reser”) announces its inaugural 2022-23 Reser Presents season, which includes an eclectic international mix of artists and performances. Pink Martini featuring China Forbes and Storm Large will open the season on September 16, 17, 18 in the intimate 550-seat Mainstage Theater.
This season, The Reser continues to be a vibrant cultural hub in the heart of Beaverton, Oregon. Season highlights include performances by Pink Martini, DakhaBrakha, Amythyst Kiah, Gina Chavez, The Heart of Afghanistan, Mark O’Connor, and many more…
The Patricia Reser Center for the Arts is the first performing arts center of its kind to be built in the Portland-metro area in more than 30 years.
Global Music
DakhaBrakha (2 performances) September 30 & October 1, 2022 International Guitar Night February 2, 2023
Edna Vazquez February 3, 2023
Seffarine April 21, 2022
Heart of Afghanistan May 20, 2023
Intersections
Osvaldo Golijov’s Falling Out of Time November 1, 2022
Caroline Shaw & So Percussion November 11, 2022 Joe Kye & The Givers May 19, 2023 Intersections is a new Reser Presents series of genre-defying artists and attractions
Roots Music Amythyst Kiah October 5, 2022
Watkins Family Hour November 13, 2022
Ron Artis and Thunderstorm Artis December 8, 2022
Gina Chavez March 11, 2023
Family Programming
Jazzy Ash & Red Yarn October 8, 2022
Smith and Yarn February 25, 2023 Cenicienta: A Bilingual Cinderella Story March 4, 2023
Holiday Programming
Kalani Pe’a’s Hawaiian Christmas December 2, 2022 Mark O’Connor’s Appalachian Christmas December 23, 2022
This wide-ranging season includes cutting-edge music, theater, and film by award-winning artists and emerging talent working across a broad range of disciplines.
“In The Reser’s inaugural season, we are excited to build on the success of this spring’s Grand Opening, and welcome these ‘must see’ artists to Beaverton. This season’s programming truly embodies our mission: to be a place where audiences can discover new favorites, build community, and leave inspired,” said Chris Ayzoukian, Executive Director of The Reser. “It has been exciting to watch thousands of our community members awestruck by the quality of this new gathering place and its programming. We see people connecting around joyous arts and culture experiences, all right here in Central Beaverton.”
The Reser Presents Inaugural 2022-23 Season schedule includes:
For further details, continue to check The Reser’s website: thereser.org.
In addition to Reser Presents, The Reser is thrilled to host many performances and presentations by arts and culture organizations from across the Metro area. Performances by visiting presenters will be announced on a rolling basis and can be found here: thereser.org/shows-and-events.
The Patricia Reser Center for the Arts (“The Reser”) unites artists, enthusiasts, individuals, and communities, linking each with a sense of shared purpose and a touch of the sublime. The Reser is the cultural heart of a flourishing community centered in Beaverton, OR. It continuously enhances the cultural life of the region, bringing people together in a space that’s warm and welcoming, and where the art we present invites discovery, wonder, and flights of imagination. The Reser eliminates barriers and thrives on access, shared experience, and open hearts. The Reser honors the cultures and customs of its diverse community and, using the awesome power of the arts, creates opportunities for deeper understanding and authentic connections between people. For more information, please visit: https://thereser.org/.
MISSION
We believe in the inherent magnificence of the arts and their extraordinary impact on everyday life. The mission of Patricia Reser Center for the Arts is to foster joy, imagination, connection, and understanding in our diverse community by presenting artistic, cultural, educational, and entertainment opportunities for all.
VISION
Patricia Reser Center for the Arts unites us as artists, enthusiasts, individuals, and communities, linking us all with a sense of shared purpose and a touch of the sublime. The Reser is the cultural heart of a flourishing community centered in Beaverton, Oregon. It continuously enhances the cultural life of our region, bringing people together in a space that’s warm and welcoming, and where the art we present invites discovery, wonder, and flights of imagination. This place eliminates barriers and thrives on access, shared experience, and open hearts. The Reser honors the cultures and customs of its diverse community and, using the awesome power of the arts, creates opportunities for deeper understanding and authentic connections between people.
COMMITMENTS TO THE COMMUNITY
We will present artistic, cultural, educational, and entertainment experiences of quality and relevance, performances and exhibitions that reflect the diverse interests and passions of the people we serve. We will present national and international artists and attractions; provide a performance home for regional arts organizations; promote the interests of artists; engage and develop new audiences; encourage participation in the arts; create opportunities for arts education; enhance the reputation of Beaverton as a regional destination; and strive always to be a genuine and indispensable contributor to the quality of life in our community. We will seek to counter privilege with equity and access and engage thoughtfully with the cultural aspirations of our entire community.
We will keep these commitments with a level of integrity, care, professionalism, and prudent management that honors the City of Beaverton for its extraordinary support and earns The Reser widespread recognition for the excellence of its programs and services.
Portland, OR. More than 350 people attended the annual Oregon Museum of Science and Industry’s (OMSI) Gala on May 7th to support OMSI’s efforts to spread science education across the Pacific Northwest. David Lucas and Mike Richardson, seen above, enjoyed the cocktail reception, sponsored by Alliant Insurance. The gala, which took place inside OMSI’s historic Turbine Hall, grossed over $1.1 million through sponsorships, ticket sales, and an auction. This year’s gala, titled ‘Renaissance,’ commemorates a revival of in-person opportunities to gather, learn, and celebrate science, and connects to OMSI’s featured exhibit, The World of Leonardo da Vinci. (Photo credit, KLiK Concepts)
OMSI Emeritus Board Chair Gary Maffei, Dan Stueber, OMSI President Emeritus Nancy Stueber, and Marc Lintner reconnect during the cocktail hour.
“The need for science literacy has reached new peaks and urgency over the past few years,” said Erin Graham, President and CEO of OMSI. “OMSI has a unique role in our community to bring people together in imagining and creating a better future. All of the money raised at the gala will support OMSI in continuing the exciting, hopeful work we do to ignite a passion for discovery in people of all ages.”
Rick Nagore and Tracy Curtis prepare for an evening of fun to support science education.
OMSI and KLiK Concepts created a photo lounge in the theme of Renaissance for guests to enjoy, courtesy of KETURI Investments.
OMSI President and CEO Erin Graham, and Gala Emcee Galen Ettlin celebrate the more than $1.1M raised through the event.
From OMSI:
Founded in 1944 by a group of volunteers, OMSI was built by the community for the community and has provided innovative and high-quality science learning experiences for more than 75 years. The gala celebrates the notion that everyone can be a successful science learner, and that is why funds raised through this event are used to uplift OMSI’s multitude of programs and make them more accessible for kids and kids-at-heart across the region and from diverse communities.
Presenting Sponsors of the gala were Vernier Software & Technology, the Jon V. Jaqua and Kimberly B. Cooper Fund of the Oregon Community Foundation, and The Harold & Arlene Schnitzer CARE Foundation/Jordan Schnitzer. Attendees were treated to fine food and cocktails provided by ChefStable, a performance by Reyna Tropical, one of NPR’s up-and-coming artists, and a heart-warming story of OMSI’s impact through a partnership with Witch Hazel Elementary School, the largest Title I School in Hillsboro. Eleven live auction packages were also sold, from local experiences to international travel.
“After two years of virtual galas the excitement to be back in person was palpable,” said Love Centerwall, Vice President of Development at OMSI. “OMSI is a privately funded nonprofit and OMSI members and donors have a huge impact on our ability to deliver accessible science education at the museum, across Oregon, and throughout the region. Our community has faced many challenges; we were all excited about coming together in support of OMSI’s ambitious, optimistic, and inclusive vision for the future.”
Anyone can get involved and assist OMSI in its ongoing efforts to extend science learning across Oregon and throughout the Pacific Northwest. Visit www.omsi.edu/donate or send an email to [email protected] for more information.
About OMSI
Our Mission The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) inspires curiosity through engaging science learning experiences, fosters experimentation and the exchange of ideas, and stimulates informed action.
OMSI is an independent non-profit 501(c)(3) organization and relies on admissions, memberships, and donations to continue our educational mission, programs, and exhibits.
Portland, OR. Jesuit High School‘s 54th annual Auction on May 7th had a Casino Night theme. Close to 600 guests, including parents, alumni, past parents, and friends of Jesuit, enjoyed the school’s first in-person Auction since 2019. Casino Night was a community-building event and raised over $1.1 million for students and school programs. Pictured above are auction chairs Lee Davies and Lori Davies are pictured with Jesuit President Tom Arndorfer (center). Photo credit, Andrea Lonas Photography.
Jay McGrain ’96, Colleen Thomas who won a Jeep through the Casino Night Auction Raffle, and Mike McGrain ’01.
Casino Night Auction Raffle Winners included: 2021 Jeep: Colleen Thomas, Diamond Earrings: Megan & Paul Cameron, Tanzanite and Diamond Necklace: Kelli Shuster, Raffle sponsors were NW Jeep and the McGrain Family, Malka Diamonds and Jewelry, and in-kind sponsors Larry & Co., Larry Packouz & Jennifer Drake.
The benefit was held on the Jesuit campus at 9000 SW Beaverton-Hillsdale Hwy. The dinner and auction were held in the Knight Gym.
Most guests stayed for casino games after the auction. (The casino games were for entertainment purposes only. Real money is never exchanged at the tables.)
Jesuit High School, located in Portland, Oregon, was founded in 1956 by the Society of Jesus and is part of a 450-year Jesuit educational tradition. Jesuit High School is a non-profit, coeducational college-preparatory school for grades 9-12 that serves students of all religious faiths.
Jesuit’s curriculum is founded in the educational philosophy of Jesuit founder, St. Ignatius of Loyola, and takes a holistic view of adolescent education, which includes nurturing the spiritual, physical, emotional, intellectual, and aesthetic gifts each student brings to campus. Jesuit hopes to accomplish this development by demonstrating a personal concern for individuals, an articulate wisdom, enthusiasm, and a sense of community. In so doing, we hope to graduate leaders who are committed to serve God and their fellow men and women through a profound sense of justice founded in love, i.e. leaders who are “men and women for others.”
The operation of Jesuit High School is overseen by a Board of Trustees. The board ensures and provides the spiritual tone and direction of the school, consistent with the purposes and traditions of Roman Catholic and Jesuit education. The board also monitors Jesuit High School’s business affairs.
Jesuit High School is fully accreditated by AdvancEd.
Portland, OR. Junior Achievement volunteers like Olivia Arce and Genevieve Klein, seen above in green aprons, are helping kids get back to business after months of sitting idle due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Local leaders in Oregon and Southwest Washington said they’re, “excited to announce Kidder Mathews’ new storefront in JA BizTown®! Kidder Mathews is the largest independent commercial real estate firm on the West Coast.” The ribbon-cutting on April 18th was part of the nonprofit’s ongoing effort to get support from the local business community for the program. BizTown features a large indoor commerce-oriented town square. There are storefronts and workspaces for banks, restaurants, retail shops, manufacturers, and services‚ most of which are sponsored and branded by Pacific Northwest businesses.
Kidder Mathews team cuts the ribbon on its new storefront at the Junior Achievement BizTown. The team includes Brendan Murphy, Jordan Carter, Steve Bowers, Steven Klein, Peter Stalick, Clay Newton, Olivia Arce and Genevieve Klein.
Genevieve Klein and Olivia Arce extended their day to volunteer within the Kidder Mathews workspace at JA BizTown. “I love JA BizTown,” exclaimed Klein, “I wish I had gone through a program like this when I was younger. I have a business degree, and even in college, I never learned personal finance in the way JA teaches it.” Genevieve’s father, Steven Klein is the Managing Director of Kidder Mathews office in Portland. He has fond memories of participating in Portland’s Junior Achievement program as a student in the 1970s.
Here’s a video about BizTown produced by Junior Achievement of Oregon & SW Washington:
After having 18 hours of classroom instruction, local 5th-grade students get to try their hand at running a business in “BizTown“.
Junior Achievement’s BizTown has served over 100,000 students since it opened in 2007.
The SE Portland facility is a $5 Million business immersion educational center that helps kids get a hands-on feel for working in the grown-up world.
About Junior Achievement of Oregon & SW Washington:
Junior Achievement (JA) is thankful to have great partners, like Kidder Mathews, who were ready and eager to step up during the pandemic. Kidder Mathews supports all Junior Achievement offices and students along the West Coast; Portland, Ore, has the only Kidder Mathews JA BizTown site! Therefore, we are extremely appreciative of this partnership and look forward to more collaboration in the future!
Junior Achievement of Oregon & SW Washington serves thousands of students each year. Students not only navigate the intricacies of jobs and being members of the community, but also discover the abundance of opportunities available within their cities. Since 1950, Junior Achievement of Oregon & SW Washington (JA) has been empowering local students by giving them the knowledge and skills they need to manage their money, plan for their futures, and make smart academic, career, and economic choices.
The local JA office located at 7830 SE Foster Road serves 35,000 kids in Oregon and Washington. For more information, see www.japortland.org.
Portland, OR. Constructing Hope is a nonprofit that trains low-income people to work in the construction industry. The organization hosted a Grand Re-opening on April 21st to showcase new additions that can accommodate larger classes and more job training options. The building, at 405 NE Church St, can now host up to 160 students annually for training. At the event, Executive Director Pat Daniels greeted former Oregon State Senator and Constructing Hope board member Robert Boyer, seen above. A new boardroom is named after Boyer.
With this expansion, Constructing Hope will help more low-income people of color enter careers in the skilled construction trades with middle-class wages to support themselves and their families. Constructing Hope graduates typically start work as construction apprentices earning over $20hr with opportunities for advancement to journeyman wages of $35/hr. or more. Graduates enter careers as carpenters, laborers, sheet metal workers, roofers, electricians, heavy equipment operators, ironworkers, painters, bricklayers, and plumbers/steamfitters. Over the past five years, CH has placed 326 graduates into new careers with an average starting wage of $23/hr. Graduates have been 80% people of color, 55% returning citizens (formerly incarcerated), and 100% unemployed or underemployed.
Guests arriving at the Hoffman Construction Training Center.
The new interior (training room) mural is for students only, and all students who have participated in the program should see themselves in the mural. A central theme of the training room mural is action-oriented images showing students learning and working in the trades. Another mural theme is personal growth and transformation. Tapping into the strength of our ancestors is another theme.
There’s a new outside mural. The exterior mural honors African American pioneers in the construction field, the founders of the Constructing Hope Program (Irvington Covenant Church), and the faithfulness and perseverance of the Executive Director, Pat Daniels. The mural will honor and respect the historically Black community, ancestors, and struggle for access in the construction field.
Example of the type of equipment Constructing Hope provides to its trainees.
From Constructing Hope:
Constructing Hope would like to thank our partners at Prosper Portland, M.J. Murdock Charitable Trust, Hoffman Construction Company and Pence Construction who funded the Workforce Training Center renovations and additions.
The program provides a no-cost, 10-week, construction skills, and life skills training program for disadvantaged men and women. The pre-apprenticeship allows women to learn construction trade skills and helps them secure a living wage job. The program aims to break down barriers by providing three years of career placement, mentorship, and supportive services. Constructing Hope is doing the work to help reduce recidivism for these women.
Constructing Hope serves people of color, those formerly incarcerated, and low-income adults looking to gain skills to access a high-paying career in construction. The construction workforce has a major labor shortage and Constructing Hope is working to fill that gap and has placed over 1,000 graduates into apprenticeships since 1995.
Want to get involved? Visit us @: https://www.constructinghope.org/get-involved/
Portland, OR. Portland Opera’s 2022/23 season will feature the cultural touchstone Carmen. Maya Lahyani (seen above) will make her Portland Opera debut in the title role of Carmen. Also on the schedule, Thumbprint, a new opera inspired by the story of Mukhtar Mai, a trailblazing Pakistani human rights activist; the company’s first production of the iconic and magical Dvořák opera Rusalka; and an exciting one-night-only concert featuring celebrated opera composer and jazz great Terence Blanchard. The season will also include the world premiere of a youth opera inspired by the life and experiences of Beatrice Cannady Morrow for the regional Portland Opera to Go tour, and additional community and educational programming throughout the year.
“It brings us great joy to present the 22/23 season to the city of Portland!” shares Priti Gandhi, Artistic Director. “This year signifies so much for us as a community. As we begin to reconnect with our neighbors, with ourselves – we invite you to come back and reconnect with the power of live opera once again. This is a season that will fill your soul with the thrill of powerful new voices, compelling stories, and brilliant music-making. As we bring beloved classics – as well as debut operas – to our stages, we continue our journey in embracing the many ways this beautiful art form expresses itself.”
Kelly Kaduce, Rusalka, with the water nymphs (Act 3)rin the Minnesota Opera Production of RUSALK
LA Opera’s presentation of Thumbprint, a contemporary opera-theatre work by Kamala Sankaram explores the deep family ties and tribal traditions that empowered Mukhtar Mai to become the first female gang-rape victim in Pakistan to bring her attackers to justice. In lieu of a financial settlement, she requested that a school be constructed for educating girls to help prevent the humiliation of signing their name with only a thumbprint. (Photo Credit: Lawrence K. Ho)
Portrait of musician Terence Blanchard at his home in New Orleans, LA.
The season begins with one of opera’s most loved works—Georges Bizet’s masterpiece Carmen. This grand production, the directorial vision of legendary mezzo-soprano Denyce Graves, will take place at Keller Auditorium November 5, 11, 13m, 2022. Featuring recognizable and melodic gems like the Habanera and the Toreador Song, Bizet’s opera is a true classic. “Portland Opera is excited to present Carmen, an opera that for many people was their first opera, or is their favorite opera,” says Damien Geter, Portland Opera’s Interim Music Director and Artistic Advisor. “The opera abounds with familiar tunes that have crossed into the realm of pop culture. We are so fortunate to be able to bring this timeless classic to Portland under the vision of the one of the world’s most beloved Carmens: Denyce Graves.”
The 2022/23 season continues with Thumbprint, a piece by composer Kamala Sankaram and librettist Susan Yankowitz inspired by the story of Mukhtar Mai—a trailblazing Pakistani human rights activist who is a victim of sanctioned gang rape. “We want to tell human stories that can empower, and lift up women,” shares Sue Dixon, General Director. “Thumbprint does this beautifully when Mukhtar Mai chooses to advocate for her life over the tradition of suicide when dishonor comes to her Pakistani family. Her continued fight for justice for all women, serves as a beacon of hope for those who find themselves in impossible situations.” Portland Opera will present 4 performances of Thumbprint, March 18, 22, 24, 26m, 2023 at the Newmark Theatre.
In April 2023, Portland Opera will present Antonín Dvořák’s Rusalka for the first time in the company’s history. This piece, based on a centuries-old folktale with roots in Slavic mythology, tells the story of a water nymph who falls in love with a prince. “The world of magical creatures and mermaids exists just beyond our realm, waiting in long-ago memories,” shares Priti Gandhi, Artistic Director. “Dvořák’s lush and richly textured soundscape takes this world and transforms it into a musical experience that gently settles into your soul. When the water sprite Rusalka sings her famous “Song to the Moon”, yearning for her human lover, one feels the touch of magic and childhood again.” Portland Opera will present 3 performances of Rusalka April 22, 28, 30m, 2023 at Keller Auditorium.
On May 26, 2023, Portland Opera will welcome jazz great and celebrated opera composer Terence Blanchard to the company for the first time with a special one-night-only concert “Absence: Terence Blanchard featuring the E-Collective and Turtle Island Quartet.” This special event, conducted by Portland Opera’s Interim Music Director and Co-Artistic Advisor Damien Geter, will feature guest soloists soprano Karen Slack, Portland Opera’s co-artistic advisor, and Will Liverman, who was last seen with the company in La Bohème in 2017, as well as the talented musicians of the Portland Opera Orchestra. “What an honor to share the stage with my dear friend the extraordinary Grammy award-winning trumpeter and composer Terence Blanchard,” says Karen Slack. “A prolific artist and an American treasure! I am filled with both gratitude and excitement that Portland Opera is presenting him alongside the thrilling E-Collective band, Turtle Island Quartet and the magnificent baritone Will Liverman. This promises to be a night the city of Portland won’t forget!”
During the 2022/23 season, the company will also continue its commitment to education and community engagement, including Portland Opera to Go, a program that travels to schools and communities throughout the region with 50-minute operas. This fall, Portland Opera will share the world premiere of a new opera inspired by the life and history of Beatrice Morrow Cannady—a renowned civil rights advocate and the co-founder of the Portland, Oregon chapter of the NAACP. Created with composer Dave Ragland and librettist Marry McCallum, this new commission is designed for school and family audiences, with curriculum targeted for students in fourth through 9th grades. This production is set to tour schools and communities throughout the state and region. “We know that the community is still struggling with impacts from school closures during the pandemic,” explains Alexis Hamilton,Manager of Education and Community Engagement. “We are hoping to use our operatic superpowers to help our educational partners re-engage with arts learning and live events as we share Beatrice’s story while helping students to understand the future by engaging and empathizing with our past.”
“The ability to realize our mission, vision, and values continues to grow in these moments when we share this beautiful art form together,” adds Sue Dixon, General Director, “and that happens not just on stage or in the recital hall, but in classrooms, in community gatherings, in our business practices, at every level.” Throughout the season, Portland Opera will produce a host of community engagement activities and professional development initiatives. Opera a la Cart, Portland Opera’s mobile performance venue that brings live opera performance directly into the community spaces where people gather will be found around town again in 2022, along with pop-up performances that have become part of Portland Opera’s community activities during pandemic closures. The company will welcome a new class of Portland Opera Resident Artists back to the revamped program for an 11-week intensive and will announce a new roster of artists in the coming weeks. In addition to the program for emerging artists, the company recently piloted a new program for BIPOC artists/administrators, named Portland Opera’s Ensemble Leaders Fellowship program. The 2022 Fellowship announcement is forthcoming, along with opportunities for local internships, community partners, and free public performances. To learn more about cultural equity, inclusion, diversity, or strategic planning progress, please visit portlandopera.org.
Here are more details about the season:
Portland Opera 2022/23 Season Casting
Carmen – Georges Bizet November 5, 11, 13m, 2022
Keller Auditorium, 222 SW Clay
Sung in French with English captions
The performance is approximately 3 hours, performed with one intermission.
In addition to the ticketed performances at Keller Auditorium, digital access will be available for a limited time on Portland Opera Onscreen.
Composer
Georges Bizet
Librettists
Henri Meilhac & Ludovic Halévy
Carmen
Maya Lahyani
Don José
Matthew Pearce
Escamillo
Richard Ollarsaba
Micaëla
Ariana Wehr
Zuniga
Darren Drone
El Dancairo
Zachary Lenox
Conductor
Michael Ellis Ingram
Original Production & Staging
Denyce Graves
Associate Director and Choreographer
Eric Sean Fogel
Scenery & Properties Designer
Riccardo Hernandez
Costume Designer
Oana Botez
Lighting Designers
Robert Wierzel & Amith Chandrashaker
Set in early 1820s in Seville, Spain. Carmen is a factory worker, free spirit, and the toast of the town. She is brave, beautiful, and independent. She falls in and out of love like “a rebellious bird that no one can tame.” Then one day, in the busy streets outside of the bullfighting ring, her ex violently and tragically rejects her choice to move on.
Known for her legendary portrayal of the title role of Carmen, Denyce Graves makes her directorial debut with this production, which will first be staged by Minnesota Opera in May. Eric Sean Fogel makes his Portland Opera debut as Associate Director and Choreographer, along with conductor Michael Ellis Ingram, who leads the Portland Opera Orchestra and Chorus.
Mezzo-soprano Maya Lahyani, a regular on the Metropolitan Opera stage, makes her Portland Opera debut in the title role of Carmen, a role she has previously sung with San Francisco Opera, Arizona Opera, and Opera Maine. Matthew Pearce, currently a Cafritz Young Artist at Washington National Opera, makes his Portland Opera debut as Don José. The cast also features Richard Ollarsaba as Escamillo, Ariana Wehr as Micaëla, and Darren Drone as Zuniga, all in their company debuts, as well Zachary Lenox, last seen on the Portland Opera stage in the 2021 production of Tosca, as Sciarrone.
Thumbprint– Kamala Sankaram March 18, 22, 24, 26m, 2023
Newmark Theatre, 1111 SW Broadway
Sung in English with English captions
The performance is approximately ninety minutes, performed without an intermission.
In addition to the ticketed performances at the Newmark Theatre, digital access will be available for a limited time on Portland Opera Onscreen
Composed by
Kamala Sankaram
Libretto by
Susan Yankowitz
Mukhtar
Maya Kherani
Mother/Minister/Reporter
Indira Mahajan
Father/Judge/Reporter/Mastoi
TBA
Faiz/Police/Reporter/Villager
Alok Kumar
Shakur/Abdul/Imam/Reporter/Mastoi/Villager
Omar Najmi
Annu/Young Girl/Reporter
Samina Aslam
Conductor
Maria Badstue
Director
Omer Ben Seadia
Thumbprint is inspired by the story of Mukhtar Mai—a trailblazing Pakistani human rights activist who is a victim of sanctioned gang rape. She defied expectations to take her own life after the attack, deciding to live and seek justice. Her hope: open a village school for girls to learn to read and write, so that they may avoid the humiliation of signing their names with only a thumbprint.
This libretto originates from a series of interviews with Mai, paired with a score that is a dynamic collision of Hindustani and European opera influences. This piece features flute, violin, viola, upright bass, piano, and percussion.
Conductor Maria Badstue, recipient of a prestigious 2019-2021 Taki Alsop Conducting Fellowship, makes her Portland Opera debut conducting Thumbprint. Omer Ben Seadia, whose recent credits include productions at Houston Grand Opera, Canadian Opera Company, and Calgary Opera, makes her debut as stage director.
Soprano Maya Kherani, whose credits include roles with Glyndebourne, Opera San José, and a recent performance locally with the Portland Baroque Orchestra, makes her company debut in the role of Mukhtar Mai. Soprano Indira Mahajan, winner of the Kennedy Center’s Marian Anderson Vocal Award, makes her Portland Opera debut as Mukhtar’s Mother, the Minister, and Reporter. Tenor Alok Kumar, whose recent credits include roles at the Metropolitan Opera, Royal Opera House Covent Garden, and Los Angeles Opera, makes his debut as Faiz, Police Office, Reporter, and Villager. Also making their Portland Opera debuts, tenor Omar Najmi sings the roles of Shakur, Abdul, Imam, Reporter, Mastoi, and Villager, and soprano Samina Aslam sings the roles of Annu, Young Girl, and Reporter.
Originally commissioned by Beth Morrison Projects and the Here Center for the Prototype Festival, Thumbprint premiered in 2014 at the Baruch Performing Arts Center.
Mukhtar Mai is still striving for change, justice, and safety. Learn more about The Mukhtar Mai Women’s Organization and her activism at portlandopera.org
Rusalka – Antonín Dvořák April 22, 28, 30M, 2023
Keller Auditorium, 222 SW Clay Street, Portland
Sung in Czech with English captions.
The performance is approximately 3 hours, performed with two intermissions.
In addition to the ticketed performances at Keller Auditorium, digital access will be available for a limited time on Portland Opera Onscreen
Composed by
Antonín Dvořák
Libretto by
Jaroslav Kvapil based on the fairy tales of Karel Jaromír Erben and Božena Němcová
Rusalka
Karen Vuong
The Prince
Limmie Pulliam
Vodnik “The Spirit of the Lake”
Andrew Potter
Ježibaba
Jill Grove
The Foreign Princess
Othalie Graham
Conductor
Elias Grandy
Director
Eric Simonson
Scenery and Properties Designer
Erhard Rom
Costume Designer
Kärin Kopischke
Projection Designer
Wendall K. Harrington
Lighting design
Robert Wierzel
In this centuries-old folktale with roots in Slavic mythology, a water nymph falls in love with a prince. With the help of the moon and a witch, she defies her father’s advice— giving up her home and voice to win the prince’s love on dry land. When it does not go to plan, the regretful prince seeks redemption, and heartbreak reigns in the land of true love.
Elias Grandy, General Music Director of the Opera and Philharmonic Orchestra Heidelberg makes his Portland Opera debut conducting Rusalka. Eric Simonson, writer and director for film, television, theatre, and opera, makes his company debut as stage director. Scenery and Properties are designed by Erhard Rom, costumes are designed by Kärin Kopischke, projections are designed by Wendall K. Harrington, and lighting is designed by Robert Wierzel.
Soprano Karen Vuong, whose recent credits include roles with Seattle Opera, Washington National Opera, and Tiroler Festspiele, makes her Portland Opera debut in the title role of Rusalka. Tenor Limmie Pulliam, whose recent credits include roles with the Los Angeles Opera, and Vashon Opera, makes his debut as the Prince. Mezzo-soprano Jill Grove makes her company debut as Ježibaba, a role she has sung with Lyric Opera of Chicago, Houston Grand Opera, as well as New Orleans Opera. Also making their Portland Opera debuts are bass Andrew Potter as Vodnik “The Spirit of the Lake,” and soprano Othalie Graham as the Foreign Princess.
Scenery, properties, projections, and costumes for this production were constructed by Minnesota Opera Shops and are owned by Minnesota Opera and Boston Lyric Opera.
Absence: Terence Blanchard featuring the E-Collective and Turtle Island Quartet
A One-night-only Concert May 26, 2023, 8:00PM
Keller Auditorium, 222 SW Clay Street, Portland
Sung in English with English captions.
The performance is approximately 1 hour, 50 minutes.
Conductor
Damien Geter
Soloist
Karen Slack
Soloist
Will Liverman
E-Collective
Trumpet/Synths
Terence Blanchard
Guitar
Charles Altura
Piano/Keyboard/Synths
Taylor Eigsti
Electric Bass
David Ginyard, Jr.
Drums
Oscar Seaton
Turtle Island Quartet
Violin
David Balakrishnan
Violin
Gabriel Terracciano
Viola
Benjamin von Gutzeit
Cello
Naseem Alatrash
In May 2023, Portland Opera will welcome two-time Oscar nominee, six-time Grammy-winner, and acclaimed opera composer (Fire Shut Up In My Bones and Champion) Terence Blanchard to the Keller Auditorium for an exciting one-night-only gala celebration.
This special event, conducted by interim music director and co-artistic advisor Damien Geter, will feature the E-Collective, Turtle Island Quartet, guest soloists soprano Karen Slack, Portland Opera’s co-artistic advisor, and Will Liverman, as well as the talented musicians of the Portland Opera Orchestra.
This performance is an optional addition to a season subscription. Single tickets are available from $35. A limited number of post-show celebration reception tickets are available for $250, in part as a tax-deductible contribution in support of Portland Opera’s bright future.
Subscriptions for Portland Opera’s 22/23 season are available now; and single tickets will be on sale on May 24. For more information, and to purchase subscriptions, visit portlandopera.org, or call Patron Services at 503-241-1802.
Portland Opera appreciates the ongoing support of our generous donors, The Collins Foundation, James F. and Marion L. Miller Foundation, National Endowment for the Arts, Oregon Arts Commission, Oregon Community Foundation, Regional Arts and Culture Council, including support from the City of Portland, Multnomah County, and the Arts Education & Access Fund, special support from The CARES Act Coronavirus Relief Fund, and The Shuttered Venue Operators Grant (SVOG) program.
Dates, programming, artists, and details for Portland Opera’s 22/23 season are subject to change. Portland Opera is committed to the health and safety of our audiences, artists, and company members. The company is working with health authorities and medical advisors to continue to adhere with local, state, and federal guidelines. To create a safe and enjoyable experience for all, Portland Opera may implement staff and patron precautions, which may include face coverings, symptom screenings, temperature checks or other recommended safety measures.
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