Windermere Stellar Golf Tournament Raises  More Than $50,000 to Help Children and Families

Windermere Stellar Golf Tournament Raises More Than $50,000 to Help Children and Families

Portland, October 25th, 2014. Some worthy local nonprofits, like the Sunshine Division, are benefiting this fall from Windermere Stellar‘s foundation. It’s annual golf tournament raised $50,000 to help local low-income children and families.

Beneficiaries of the donations often include nonprofits like Big Brother Big Sisters Columbia Northwest and Project Lemonade.

Tim Hershey, Nike and Big Brothers Big Sisters board member, stands with his Little Brother Felix in front of a banner displaying their image

Tim Hershey, a Big Brothers Big Sisters board member, stands with his Little Brother Felix.

The sixth annual golf tournament, presented by Penrith Home Loans, was held in July at Columbia Edgewater Country Club.

Windermere Stellar Brokers Kendall Woodworth and Cary Perkins plan out their strategy.

Windermere Stellar Brokers Kendall Woodworth and Cary Perkins plan out their strategy.

Presenting sponsor Penrith Home Loans’ Brian Allen, Brad Unger, Erik Hand, and Cliff Taylor.

Presenting sponsor Penrith Home Loans’ Brian Allen, Brad Unger, Erik Hand, and Cliff Taylor.

Brokers from Windermere Stellar tee up for charity at the sixth annual Windermere Stellar Golf Tournament benefitting the Windermere Foundation, which provides support to low-income children and families. (from left to right) Lynn Thompson, Teri Beatty, Libby Benz, and Joan Allen (Co-Owner and Vice President).

Brokers from Windermere Stellar tee up for charity at the sixth annual Windermere Stellar Golf Tournament benefitting the Windermere Foundation, which provides support to low-income children and families. (from left to right) Lynn Thompson, Teri Beatty, Libby Benz, and Joan Allen (Co-Owner and Vice President).

Windermere Stellar broker, Nihad Aweidah, participates in the Windermere Foundation Golf Tournament that he has spearheaded for the past six years with the support of other Windermere brokers and staff.

Windermere Stellar broker, Nihad Aweidah, participates in the Windermere Foundation Golf Tournament that he has spearheaded for the past six years with the support of other Windermere brokers and staff.

Broker Will Rader checks in before teeing off at the Windermere Stellar Golf Tournament.

Broker Will Rader checks in before teeing off at the Windermere Stellar Golf Tournament.

Another sponsor, First American Title, showed up in force to support the Windermere Foundation

Another sponsor, First American Title, showed up in force to support the Windermere Foundation

Windermere Stellar broker, Nihad Aweidah, created the golf tournament in 2009 and has been spearheading it with support from other Windermere Stellar brokers and staff. Through sponsorships, raffles and golf packages, the tournament has raised nearly $225,000 in total for the Windermere Foundation over the past six years.

“Windermere Stellar is a team whose reputation is built on providing our best to each client. The golf tournament is an opportunity for us to give the same to our community and have fun doing it,” said Aweidah. “We couldn’t be more thankful for everyone’s support, which allows us to help those who need it most.”

The golf tournament is one of the many fundraising campaigns that Windermere Stellar launches throughout the year in support of the Windermere Foundation. The personal donations made by the brokers and other annual events — such as auctions, sales and galas — have raised over $2.5 million and benefited more than 135 local organizations. All of these efforts hold a common thread of supporting low-income children and families in our communities.

Oregon’s Military History Comes Alive at Camp Withycombe in Clackamas

Oregon’s Military History Comes Alive at Camp Withycombe in Clackamas

Clackamas, August 14th, 2015. The spirit of 1945 was alive as the Historical Outreach Foundation, and supporters of the Brigadier General James B. Thayer Oregon Military Museum, gathered to honor Oregon’s military heritage. Amy Maxwell, KISS guitarist Tommy Thayer, Melanie Vogelpohl and Lisa Lucas were at the Camp Withycombe benefit. With the help of an Albertson’s-Safeway campaign, over $400,000 was raised for the museum which is currently under construction. 

Brigadier General James B. Thayer

Brigadier General James B. Thayer

 Alisha Hamel (Former HOF Executive Director) Jill McGinnis Communications Manager Safeway

Alisha Hamel (Former HOF Executive Director) Jill McGinnis Communications Manager Safeway

Salute at Camp Withycombe

Guests helped raise money for the museum, library, surrounding park and gardens.

Kingsley Field Command Chief Master Sergeant Mark McDaniel of the Oregon Air National Guard who accepted David Kingsley's Hall of Valor induction.

Kingsley Field Command Chief Master Sergeant Mark McDaniel of the Oregon Air National Guard accepted David Kingsley’s Hall of Valor induction.

Guests enjoyed 1940s music by the Dr. T. Band, dancing, and great company. Brigadier General James Thayer and his son, Tommy Thayer were honored. The keynote speaker at the gala was Major General (Ret) Raymond “Fred” Rees, Deputy Assistant to the Secretary of the Army, Training, Readiness and Mobilization and the 2nd longest serving Adjutant General for the state of Oregon.

Albertson’s-Safeway held a major fundraising campaign during the month of July running ads on KGW and allowing its customers to “round-up” their purchases and presented a large check to the Historical Outreach Foundation during the event.

In addition to the dinner and dancing, guests were able to participate in the live auction and raffle drawing to bid on exciting items like a trips to Italy and Cabo, a Timber’s package including a signed Timbers soccer ball, a Portland Thunder package, and a $500 gift certificate to Packouz Jewelers.

The funds help perserve the artifacts, including photographs, of Oregon’s military history.

Camp Adair was named for Henry Rodney Adair, who was a native of Astoria, Oregon and a member of a prominent Oregon pioneer family. After graduating from West Point, he became a cavalry lieutenant. He was killed during the Pancho Villa Expedition at the Battle of Carrizal on June 21, 1916. The 57,159-acre (231.31 km2) site was built during 1942–1943 as a World War II division training and cantonment camp, and had temporary quarters for 2,133 officers and 37,081 enlisted personnel. Although the site was dedicated as "Camp Adair" on September 4, 1943, it had been occupied by troops before that date. Camp Adair post office operated from 1942–1946. From 1944–1946-07-23, Camp Adair served as a prisoner-of-war camp, housing German and Italian POWs. In 1957, Camp Adair became Adair Air Force Station and SAGE Support Facility, anticipating the construction of a CIM-10 Bomarc launch facility. Construction of the launch facility was not completed due to drastic reduction in the Bomarc program, but the infrastructure that was completed remains at the site.

This photo shows Camp Adair in Astoria. It operated from 1942–1946. From 1944–1946-07-23, Camp Adair served as a prisoner-of-war camp, housing German and Italian POWs.

Oregon National Guard National Guard Iraq War

This photos shows Oregon National Guard National Guard Troops serving in the Iraq War.

There’s a $14.6 million Capital Campaign to renovate the The Brigadier General James B. Thayer Oregon Military Museum. It’s under construction with a variety of funding sources.  The federal government has funded a large majority of the construction.  The state of Oregon has recently passed a funding request to start the exhibit design.  Clackamas County and the City of Happy Valley have funded a portion of the exhibits that will be displayed in the Park portion of the Museum and over $2 million has been raised in private and corporate donations.

With close to $7.5 million secured, the Museum is on its way to becoming a reality in the next couple of years.  Additional fundraising to raise the remaining $6 million will take place through naming opportunities, events, a sustainment program and continued partnerships like the Albertson’s-Safeway partnership and additional state funding.

Here’s a video about the project from the Clackamas County Government Channel:

To follow the progress, email info@historicaloutreach.com to be added to the email list or follow on Facebook.  Donations are always accepted at www.historicaloutreach.com or by check at Historical Outreach Foundation, P.O. Box 1822, Clackamas, OR 97015 or call 503-683-6161.

Ronald McDonald House Charities Hearts & Hands Gala Keeps Families Close

Ronald McDonald House Charities Hearts & Hands Gala Keeps Families Close

Portland,  October 10th, 2015. The Oregon Convention Center was a sea of elegant red dresses and red ties at the annual Hearts & Hands Gala to support Ronald McDonald House Charities® (RMHC) of Oregon and Southwest Washington. At the benefit, Jen Clason was joined on stage by her 8-year-old son Sam, they talk with RMHC CEO Jessica Jarratt Miller about their experience of staying at Ronald McDonald Houses more than 20 times. With 475 attendees, the event raised a record-breaking $521,000 gross, making it the most successful fundraising event in RMHC’s history.

RMHC honored Marquis Companies as the 2015 Partner of Distinction for their years of service and support to Portland's two Ronald McDonald Houses. Angie Fogg (left) is joined by RMHC CEO Jessica Jarratt Miller and Board Chair Grant Jones along with Marquis CEO Phil Fogg (right)

RMHC honored Marquis Companies as the 2015 Partner of Distinction for their years of service and support to Portland’s two Ronald McDonald Houses. Angie Fogg (left) is joined by RMHC CEO Jessica Jarratt Miller and Board Chair Grant Jones along with Marquis CEO Phil Fogg (right)

Hearts & Hands Gala Committee Member and board member Cindy Luckman (second from the right) is joined by husband Steve and Ted and Kathi Austin

Hearts & Hands Gala Committee Member and board member Cindy Luckman (second from the right) is joined by husband Steve and Ted and Kathi Austin

RMHC Board Member Mona Westhaver (left) is joined by Ronald McDonald and Sarah & Carter Beyl

RMHC Board Member Mona Westhaver (left) is joined by Ronald McDonald and Sarah & Carter Beyl

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“We couldn’t be more thrilled with this year’s Hearts & Hands Gala and the tremendous impact it will have on our families with seriously ill children,” said Jessica Jarratt Miller, CEO of Ronald McDonald House Charities of Oregon and Southwest Washington. “From the amazing support of our sponsors to the outpouring of generosity from attendees, the evening’s success allows us to provide loving “home away from home” for the thousands of families who stay with us each year.”

The evening began with a red carpet greeting from Ronald McDonald, which was followed by a live and silent auction that raised more than $100,000 for families with seriously ill children. Jen Clason, mother of 8-year-old son Sam, spoke about her multiple stays at Portland’s Ronald McDonald Houses and the impact it had on her family while Sam was undergoing treatment for brain cancer. The event also honored and recognized RMHC’s 2015 Partner of Distinction – Marquis Companies – for their countless contributions to RMHC.

“It is hard to fully capture, in words or in dollars, the beautiful impact that Marquis Companies has had on the thousands of seriously ill children and families who come to stay and heal at our “home away from home,” Jarratt said.  “From bringing gifts at the holidays, making meals throughout the year, filling welcome bags, raising funds, and lending a hand as RMHC renovates and remodels its 18-year-old East House, we simply couldn’t do what we do without the tremendous support of Marquis Companies.”

McDonald’s and U.S. Bank served as the event’s gold-level sponsors with additional sponsorship support from Dr. Pepper, HealthNet, Northwest Consulting and Marketing, Perkins & Co., Portland Trail Blazers, OHSU Doernbecher Children’s Hospital, and Randall Children’s Hospital at Legacy Emanuel.  Ken Wright with Ken Wright Cellars donated the evening’s wine pairing.

About RMHC
Ronald McDonald House Charities of Oregon and Southwest Washington® provides a “home away from home” for families with seriously ill children, and supports initiatives to improve pediatric health.  For more than three decades, our dedicated staff and volunteers have offered comfort and support, a well-stocked kitchen and a warm bed to more than 32,000 families. To accomplish this, we rely on the generosity of donors, community partners and the hundreds of volunteers who selflessly give to our organization every year.  For more information, visit www.rmhcoregon.org.

 

Incight Celebrates Leading the way for People with Disabilities at the 2015 Derby Gala

Incight Celebrates Leading the way for People with Disabilities at the 2015 Derby Gala

Portland, October 3, 2015.  Incight and over 320 generous friends and supporters gathered at the Portland Art Museum to celebrate over 11 years of Incight leading the way for people with disabilities. The Benefit raised over $230,000 for the organization’s empowering suite of services.  Amy Coe-Ingalls, Emily Wooton and Beth Horton were in the spirit of the event. The night was full of derby-themed surprises and the program kicked off with a recorded welcome from Ronnie Turcotte, rider of Secretariat, winner of the U.S. Triple Crown in 1973. KGW’s Drew Carney was the 2015 Derby Gala MC, and spoke warmly about his passion for Incight’s mission to unlock the potential of people with disabilities.

West Livaudais and Courtney Smurdon

West Livaudais and Courtney Smurdon

Rebecca Taylor and Michelle Heubner

Rebecca Taylor and Michelle Heubner

Adriana Dameron and Danielle Friess

Adriana Dameron and Danielle Friess

Scott Hatley on stage.

Scott Hatley on stage.

Johnna Wells and the room full of supporters.

Johnna Wells and the room full of supporters.

Vail Horton and DJ Widmer

 

The event featured games, silent auction gifts, a vacation package raffle, and an exciting live auction led by Johnna Wells, international auctioneer champion.  Gala attendees came adorned with derby attire, and enjoyed Mint Juleps, Kentucky Lemonade cocktails, and a menu that was both delectable and fun.  The excitement was amplified by the Swindells Charitable Trust who offered a match of contributions during the paddle raise portion of the evening.

Incight hit the highest mark to date in support raised from the event, which will go towards the organization’s adaptive recreation programs, scholarships for students, employment workshops and networking events for job seekers, high-level diversity and inclusion trainings for employers, and towards everything that Incight does in the community to bust stigma and pave the way for people with disabilities to lead a fulfilling life.

Incight was honored to have a number of amazing sponsors support this event, including presenting sponsor Safeway Foundation, platinum sponsors The Standard and Immix Law Group, and gold sponsor Aequitas Capital. Other supporting sponsors were Albina Community Bank, Pacific Power, Cambia Health Solutions, McKesson, FedEx, The Boeing Company, Keen Healthcare, the OSU Foundation, University of Portland, CareOregon, Mass Mutual, PAC MET, OHSU, Oregon Health Authority, Moore Excavation and Pacific Continental Bank.  The community truly came together for this event, as Incight also received in kind support from Helioterra Winery, Pacific Pie Company, Widmer Brothers Brewing, Miles Nursery, LNS Captioning, B & B Print Source and many other local businesses.

From Incight:

Incight is a 501(c) 3 non-profit that supports and empowers key life aspects of education, employment, and independence.

More potential resides within the disability community than has been historically realized – and that much of that potential is unfairly locked up due to stigma, resulting in low expectation.

Incight offers three distinct programs that provide resources to help people who experience disability realize their potential and encourage the community at large to consider greater inclusion. We have created projects that do not reinvent the wheel of disability services, but support and embolden existing systems. Each program is built on the back bone of our anti-stigma approach.


We aim to create a culture of inclusion by leading an important conversation about disability in our community. Our vision includes workplaces free of stigma surrounding disability, support systems for students to access all necessary resources to successfully complete college, recreational opportunities for athletes of all abilities, and a safe forum for people who want to learn more.

Our services directly impact hundreds of students and jobseekers; thousands of athletes, families, educators, non-profits, and business professionals; and countless community partners, corporations, and schools.


OUR HISTORY

Founded in 2004, by Vail Horton, who is a congenital amputee, and Scott Hatley, who has Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. The name Incight comes from a hybrid of the word Incite – to spark a passion, and Insight – to possess intimate knowledge. This hybrid describes the founders original intention – to destroy the stigma that surrounds disability and fill in the gaps of other support services.

They found studies reporting that only 16% of people with disabilities earned college degrees and 76% were unemployed.

They observe, that since 1990 with the passing of the Americans with Disabilities Act, there are protected rights for people with disabilities and that accommodations and accessibility have increased 10x, the statistics for higher education and employment accomplishments have barely increased.

Significant obstacles remain for people with disabilities – and the largest of all is the stigma – or incorrect attitude and perspective. Lastly, they rightly recognize that this stigma is a two-way street. It occurs internally – within the disability demographic. It also occurs externally – as too much of society discounts those with disabilities.

Recruiting their college roommate, Jerry Carleton, to the cause – Incight was born. Jerry, Scott, and Vail built a team of staff, board members, and volunteers who are deeply committed to affecting real change in their communities.

Sold Out Noche Bella Raises Funds for Latino Network

Sold Out Noche Bella Raises Funds for Latino Network

Portland, September 25th, 2015. Castaway was the place to support the Latino Network. Latino Network provides transformative opportunities, services, and advocacy for the education, leadership and civic engagement of youth, families and communities. At the party, Woodburn City Council member Teresa Alonso was pictured with Cynthia Gomez, Portland State University; Victoria Lara, Lara Media Services and Latino Network board member; and Oscar Arana, Native American Youth & Family Center.

Governor Kate Brown attended the cocktail reception where she had the opportunity to meet with key Latino leaders and Noche Bella honorees. (photo credit, Andie Petkus)

Mayor Charlie Hales, Governor Kate Brown, Carmen Rubio Latino Network Executive Director and PPS Superintendent Carole Smith

Mayor Charlie Hales, Governor Kate Brown, Carmen Rubio Latino Network Executive Director and PPS Superintendent Carole Smith

Izzy Ventura, Nanci Luna Jimenez, Jonath Colon, and Melinda Veliz.  Jonath and Melinda participated in the Latino Network executive leadership program Unid@s, which Nanci Luna Jimenez facilitates the opening retreat.

Izzy Ventura, Nanci Luna Jimenez, Jonath Colon, and Melinda Veliz.
Jonath and Melinda participated in the Latino Network executive leadership program Unid@s, which Nanci Luna Jimenez facilitates the opening retreat.

Latino Network's Board of Directors (l-r): Annette Campista, Maria Elena Campisteguy, Hector Ignacio, Carmen Rubio, Jilma Meneses, (seated) Hector Chavez, Alan Finn, Nate Waas Shull, Jose Klein (Not pictured: Jessica Howard, Victoria Lara, Santos Cash, Paulina Menchaca)

Latino Network’s Board of Directors: Annette Campista, Maria Elena Campisteguy, Hector Ignacio, Carmen Rubio, Jilma Meneses, (seated) Hector Chavez, Alan Finn, Nate Waas Shull, Jose Klein (Not pictured: Jessica Howard, Victoria Lara, Santos Cash, Paulina Menchaca)

Representative Joe Gallegos was honored with the Aguila Award, recognizing his outstanding commitment to the Latino community throughout his career, and especially for his recent accomplishment of working with the Legislature to pass the English Language Learner reform bill. Latino Network Board Chair Jilma Meneses presented Rep. Gallegos with the award.

Representative Joe Gallegos was honored with the Aguila Award, recognizing his outstanding commitment to the Latino community throughout his career, and especially for his recent accomplishment of working with the Legislature to pass the English Language Learner reform bill. Latino Network Board Chair Jilma Meneses presented Rep. Gallegos with the award.

The Oregon Lottery presented our student honoree, Aurora Resendiz, with a surprise scholarship for $2,000. Deputy Director Roland Iparraguirre encouraged Aurora to defy stereotypes by pursuing education. Aurora graduated from Madison HS in June and is now enrolled at Portland Community College.

The Oregon Lottery presented our student honoree, Aurora Resendiz, with a surprise scholarship for $2,000. Deputy Director Roland Iparraguirre encouraged Aurora to defy stereotypes by pursuing education. Aurora graduated from Madison HS in June and is now enrolled at Portland Community College.

Lai-Lani Ovalles of United Way of the Columbia Willamette; Sita Symonette, Jesse Beason, of Northwest Health Foundation; and Dani Ledezma, of Gov. Brown's office

Lai-Lani Ovalles of United Way of the Columbia Willamette; Sita Symonette, Jesse Beason, of Northwest Health Foundation; and Dani Ledezma, of Gov. Brown’s office

Renowned Mariachi singer, and former Latino Network staff member, Edna Vazquez performed with her mariachi band to start off the night.

Renowned Mariachi singer, and former Latino Network staff member, Edna Vazquez performed with her mariachi band to start off the night.

Presenting Sponsor Portland Development Commission’s Director of Communications and Social Equity John Jackley welcomed everyone to the event, followed by a welcome from Latino Network Executive Director Carmen Rubio.

“Tonight, we are celebrating what we can accomplish when we cultivate the power and the amazing leadership of our community. When community comes together, rooted in our many stories, background and cultures yet reaching for our own futures, our communities thrive.

Our participants are mothers, nursery workers, bussers, teacher aides, students, infants, fathers, abuelos, factory workers, college students, professionals and homemakers. While these people sound diverse, the one thing they all are is leaders. These leaders, big and small, are being supported to lead their families, friends, coworkers and their own futures.”

 

Guests enjoyed four courses from Mayahuel Catering, which owns and operates Tamale Boy food truck and restaurant in NE Portland. Owner Jaime Soltero, Jr and Chef Abel Hernandez brought together the flavors of Latin America, featuring dishes from Puebla, Oaxaca, and Guadelajara, Mexico as well as Peru and traditional Mayan and Incan dishes.

The organization honored incoming Portland Community College freshman Aurora Resendiz. Aurora participated in our college and career readiness program Escalera, which works with juniors and seniors in high school to support students and parents in achieving graduation and post-secondary success.

Aurora also received a generous, surprise scholarship from the Oregon Lottery, presented by Deputy Director Roland Iparraguirre for $2,000 toward her education.

 

From Latino Network

Vision

Our thriving Latino community is respected and engaged.

History

Latino Network was founded in 1996 by community leaders who grew concerned about the lack of adequate resources to meet the needs of the growing Latino community. Since that time, we have evolved to become an organization that also encompasses transformational programs aimed at educating and empowering Multnomah County Latinos. Low achievement scores, youth violence and high drop out rates undermine the Latino community’s potential. We address these issues by promoting early literacy, encouraging parent involvement, working with gang-involved and adjudicated youth and families, and providing academic support and activities to high school aged youth.

Focus

Latino Network provides opportunities, services and advocacy for the education, leadership development and civic engagement of Latino youth and families in Multnomah County every year. Our work springs from the core belief in Latino community self-determination—that is, the ability of community members to participate meaningfully in the decisions that affect their lives and the lives of their families.

We Value:

  • The advocacy, leadership and engagement of Latinos in the decisions that affect their lives.
  • Our history and languages and our continued connection to them.
  • The power of partnership and collaboration.
  • The strength of our community’s rich diversity.
  • Education and the advancement of our children and youth.

Our programs for children and parents, youth and adults help improve community livability, foster civic participation, and prepare for educational and life success. Our programs for children and parents, youth and adults help improve community livability, foster civic participation, and prepare for educational and life success.

 

For more information about any of our programs, please contact Edgar Ortega at  edgar@latnet.org. .

Wet Nose Soirée a Howling Good Time for DoveLewis

Wet Nose Soirée a Howling Good Time for DoveLewis

Portland, October 9th, 2015. Animal lovers crowded the halls of the Sentinel Hotel for the Wet Nose Soirée. During the fashion show, Tammy Beckley and Hero took on the catwalk as did Elliot Greene and his Guinea Pig Samuri. The theme was DoveLewis’ version of the Grand Budapest Hotel. Several hundred guests enjoyed a live and silent auction, gourmet dinner, pet and person fashion show and  after-party.

Funds raised at the event benefit the nonprofit. DoveLewis is Portland's nonprofit 24-Hour Emergency and ICU Animal Hospital, offering advanced veterinary care.

Funds raised at the event benefit the nonprofit. DoveLewis is Portland’s nonprofit 24-Hour Emergency and ICU Animal Hospital, offering advanced veterinary care.

Models Genevieve Klein and Nicole Gooding pose with Freddie Klein

Models Genevieve Klein and Nicole Gooding pose with Freddie Klein

Howard Hedinger's dog, Hero finds his master in the fashion show audience.

Howard Hedinger’s dog, Hero finds his master in the fashion show audience.

From Dove Lewis:

DoveLewis
DoveLewis Emergency Animal Hospital, established in 1973 and based in Portland, Ore., is the only nonprofit, 24-hour emergency and intensive care unit in the region. DoveLewis provides donor-funded programs to the community, including one of the United States’ largest volunteer-based animal blood banks, a nationally recognized pet loss support program, an animal-assisted therapy program, education for veterinary professionals and the animal-loving community, 24-hour stabilizing care for lost, stray and wild animals and financial assistance for qualifying low-income families and abused animals. With over 40 years of service to the community, DoveLewis has treated over 500,000 animals and has been deemed one of Oregon’s Most Admired Nonprofits by The Portland Business Journal for eight years.

The DoveLewis Mission

To provide the best emergency and critical care for companion animals, and to support veterinary professionals and the animal-loving community.

CCA’s Wonderball Birthday Bash Gala Raises $1.2 million

CCA’s Wonderball Birthday Bash Gala Raises $1.2 million

Portland, September 26, 2015. This year marks The Children’s Cancer Association‘s 20th birthday, and to celebrate, CCA turned the Oregon Convention Center into the biggest birthday party ever. Colin MacLean, Shelia Hamilton (KINK FM), Dallas and Daria Eliuk (105.1 the Buzz), and Patrick Lamb joined in the celebration. For one night – and with the help of title sponsors Regence BlueCross BlueShield and The Sheffield Family – CCA invited 850+ of their most passionate friends and supporters to put on their party hats and re-experience, with sophistication and flare, some of the most treasured parts of birthday celebrations.

Title Sponsors Angela and CS Sheffield (Pfizer and Ambassador Board co-Chair)

Title Sponsors Angela and CS Sheffield (Pfizer and Ambassador Board co-Chair)

Ted and Katrina Wheeler

Ted and Katrina Wheeler

 Shelley Miller, Irene Doerner, Glen Miller, Lynn and Ron Penner-Ash (Penner-Ash Wine Cellars), Steven Doerner (Cristom Wine), Meg Byrtek (CCA President and COO) and George Byrtek

Shelley Miller, Irene Doerner, Glen Miller, Lynn and Ron Penner-Ash (Penner-Ash Wine Cellars), Steven Doerner (Cristom Wine), Meg Byrtek (CCA President and COO) and George Byrtek

 Selma and Bud Pierce (Hematology and Oncology Clinic of Salem)

Selma and Bud Pierce (Hematology and Oncology Clinic of Salem)

Scott Burton (Title Sponsor Regence BlueCross BlueShield and CCA Board Member), Regina Ellis (Founder and Chief Joy Officer, CCA)

Scott Burton (Title Sponsor Regence BlueCross BlueShield and CCA Board Member), Regina Ellis (Founder and Chief Joy Officer, CCA)

 Toasting to CCA’s 20th Birthday

Toasting to CCA’s 20th Birthday

Michelle DeCourcy singing “Happy Birthday” after jumping out of the cake.

Michelle DeCourcy singing “Happy Birthday” after jumping out of the cake.

Megan and Aaron Cooper (Nike, Inc. and CCA Board Member), Chris and Stacie Rask

Megan and Aaron Cooper (Nike, Inc. and CCA Board Member), Chris and Stacie Rask

 Matt Shelley (UnitedHealth Care and Clare Hamill (Nike, Inc. and CCA Founding Board Chair)

Matt Shelley (UnitedHealth Care and Clare Hamill (Nike, Inc. and CCA Founding Board Chair)

 Lisa Hynes (HealthNet and CCA Ambassador Board Member) and Allison Clarke (Allison Clarke Consulting and CCA Ambassador Board co-Chair)

Lisa Hynes (HealthNet and CCA Ambassador Board Member) and Allison Clarke (Allison Clarke Consulting and CCA Ambassador Board co-Chair)

Title Sponsors Regence BlueCross BlueShield: Todd Kessel, Marcie Kessel, Mattias Buck, David Dowling, Angela Dowling (President, Regence BlueCross BlueShield of Oregon), Kourt Bowes, Melissa Jolliffe Bowes, Kara Jolliffe Buck

Title Sponsors Regence BlueCross BlueShield:
Todd Kessel, Marcie Kessel, Mattias Buck, David Dowling, Angela Dowling (President, Regence BlueCross BlueShield of Oregon), Kourt Bowes, Melissa Jolliffe Bowes, Kara Jolliffe Buck

From the moment they arrived, guests at the Wonderball Gala were immersed in a festive welcome from the Beaverton High School Marching Band, The Cardboard Songsters, Air Raid Derby Girls, and DJ Eric Isaacson of Mississippi Records. The evening’s highlights included premium silent and live auctions, an inspiring program, and world-class entertainment from the legendary PresHall Brass Band from New Orleans, along with Portland’s own: Liz Vice, Vursatyl, Patrick Lamb, Michelle DeCourcy, and The Jefferson Dancers. FOX12 anchors Wayne Garcia, Andy Carson, Shauna Parsons, and Chief Meteorologist Mark Nelsen led the live auction and special appeal. At evening’s end, guests sang Happy Birthday and together, blew out the candles on 85 individual birthday cakes, wishing CCA every success in the next 20 years. Late night revelers enjoyed an after-party with DJ Cooky Parker.

 

 

Columbia Land Trust Celebrated 25th Anniversary with Wild Splendor

Columbia Land Trust Celebrated 25th Anniversary with Wild Splendor

Portland, September 19th, 2015.  Columbia Land Trust celebrated 25 years of Northwest conservation at its annual gala and fundraising event, Wild Splendor. Stewardship Lead Lindsay Cornelius presents hydrologist and geomorphologist Will Conley with a glass salmon to honor his work on the Klickitat River.

Betsy Henning, Corey Shields, and Steve Shields of AHA! and Columbia Land Trust Executive Director Glenn Lamb pose in front of Corey Shields’ Northwesterners photography collection. This series of double exposure prints inspired the theme for the event, “share your love for the land that shapes you.”

Betsy Henning, Corey Shields, and Steve Shields of AHA! and Columbia Land Trust Executive Director Glenn Lamb pose in front of Corey Shields’ Northwesterners photography collection. This series of double exposure prints inspired the theme for the event, “share your love for the land that shapes you.”

o Amy Gredler and board members Marc Smiley and Jim Thayer explore a map of the Columbia Land Trust service region, pinning their favorite locations.

Attendees enjoyed a live auction, which included local art, tours, and even a shark tagging expedition in San Francisco. An interactive map of the region helped people mark the lands dear to them, whether it was their own backyard or a favorite hiking spot in the Pacific Northwest. The premiere of short film, “A River Reborn.”

The film tells the story of how the Land Trust is helping restore the banks of Washington’s Klickitat River. The video also explores the ways in which the land shapes us at the same time we endeavor to reshape the land.

From Columbia Land Trust:
Thank you so much to our donors and sponsors who made this year’s event a resounding success.  Together, you raised more than $255,000 for Columbia Land Trust to continue its work conserving and caring for the Northwest that we all love.  Also thank you to Swaim Strategies, Streamline Support, Johnna Wells at Benefit Auctions 360, our photographer Andie Petkus, and all of our volunteers and Young Ambassadors who helped make this Wild Splendor our most successful event yet!

At the event, we also shared photos of meaningful Northwest places submitted by our staff and supporters. You can still share images of the lands that have shaped you by using the hashtag #LandShapesUs on Instagram and Twitter.

 

Girl Scouts of Oregon and Southwest Washington Honors 2015 Women of Distinction

Girl Scouts of Oregon and Southwest Washington Honors 2015 Women of Distinction

Portland, September 16, 2015. Girl Scouts of Oregon and Southwest Washington honored Judge Adrienne Nelson and Peggy Maguire with the 2015 Marie Lamfrom Women of Distinction Award for their distinguished service, excellence in leadership and important contributions as role models for girls. Honored guests also pictured above include: Karen Hill – CEO, Girl Scouts OSW; Gert Boyle – Chairman of the Board, Columbia Sportswear Company; Eva Labby – Board Member, Girl Scouts OSW; Peggy Maguire – Senior VP, Corporate Accountability and Chief of Staff, Cambia Health Solutions; Judge Adrienne Nelson – Multnomah County Circuit Court Judge; Mary Shaver – President, Anchorage Launch Service; Barbara Alberty – Retired Educator; Oregon Attorney General Ellen Rosenblum, Former Governor of Oregon Barbara Roberts.

Suzanne Krahmer, Mary Ann Frantz - Board Member, Girl Scouts OSW, and Ann Widmer.

Suzanne Krahmer, Mary Ann Frantz – Board Member, Girl Scouts OSW, and Ann Widmer.

Girl Scout Gold Award recipient Varsha Kalavar addresses a crowd of more than 460 alumnae and community supporters.

Girl Scout Gold Award recipient Varsha Kalavar addresses a crowd of more than 460 alumnae and community supporters.

) Vanessa Morgan, Carla Penn Hopson, Margaret Carter and 2015 Honoree Judge Adrienne Nelson.

Vanessa Morgan, Carla Penn Hopson, Margaret Carter and 2015 Honoree Judge Adrienne Nelson.

Tracy Curtis – Regional President, Wells Fargo Bank and Board Member, Girl Scouts OSW; DJ Wilson - President/General Manager, KGW; Russ Lewis - KGW Anchor; and Sally Ramirez, Assistant News Director at KGW TV

Tracy Curtis – Regional President, Wells Fargo Bank and Board Member, Girl Scouts OSW; DJ Wilson – President/General Manager, KGW; Russ Lewis – KGW Anchor; and Sally Ramirez, Assistant News Director at KGW TV

Russ Lewis and Sally Ramirez of KGW emceed the event, with more than 460 Girl Scout alumnae and community supporters in attendance. The event raised over $135,000 to implement the Girl Scout Leadership Experience and enhance programs in financial literacy, healthy living, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math), and outdoor skills for nearly 15,000 girls throughout Oregon and SW Washington.

A testament to the value of investing in girls’ leadership, Girl Scout Gold Award recipient Varsha Kalavar shared her experience in the leadership program. “Girl Scouts taught me to lead with promise and honesty, igniting change through actions,” Varsha said. “As a leader I want to embolden the people around me through my actions so they also are inspired to help better the world.”

The event’s success was bolstered by a $25,000 Challenge Grant generously given by Wells Fargo. The match was met and exceeded thanks to the incredible support of alumnae and community. The event’s Gold Sponsors included Cambia Health Solutions, Portlandia Club, Inc., and The Standard, and Silver Sponsors included Brown & Brown Northwest Insurance, Ferguson Wellsman Capital Management, and Garrett Hemann Robertson P.C.

The 2016 Marie Lamfrom Women of Distinction Luncheon is planned for September 14, 2016 at the Hilton Hotel in Portland. For more information, or to express interest in sponsoring the 2016 event, contact Shannon Spencer at sspencer@girlscoutsosw.org or call 503-977-6843.

 

Breaking Down the Stigma of Addiction at De Paul’s Freedom Award Luncheon

Breaking Down the Stigma of Addiction at De Paul’s Freedom Award Luncheon

Portland, September 24th, 2015. De Paul Treatment Centers presented its 16th Annual Samuel C. Wheeler Freedom Award to Richard “Dick” Withnell. The Freedom Award, named after former De Paul board member Sam Wheeler, is an honor given to those who help battle the stigma of addiction by being open about their recovery and giving back to the community in significant ways. Dick Withnell is an influential yet humble leader throughout Oregon. Throughout his decades of sobriety, Dick has been active in public policy for youth safety and education, and is dedicated to ensuring the well-being of the greater community.

Honoree Dick Withnell, Award Presenter Ted Wheeler

Honoree Dick Withnell, Award Presenter Ted Wheeler

Honoree Dick Withnell, Senator Jackie Winters, De Paul CEO Maree Wacker, De Paul Board Director Jack Hopkins, Clackamas County Commissioner Jim Bernard

Honoree Dick Withnell, Senator Jackie Winters, De Paul CEO Maree Wacker, De Paul Board Director Jack Hopkins, Clackamas County Commissioner Jim Bernard

Board Director Paul Rosenbaum, Board Chair Harry Wilson

Board Director Paul Rosenbaum, Board Chair Harry Wilson

Bill Dickey, Representative Jennifer Williamson, Governor Kate Brown, former Governor Ted Kulongoski

Bill Dickey, Representative Jennifer Williamson, Governor Kate Brown, former Governor Ted Kulongoski

Governor Kate Brown speaking to audience about the importance of substance abuse treatment

Governor Kate Brown speaking to audience about the importance of substance abuse treatment

The luncheon’s inspiring speakers—Governor Kate Brown, past honoree Bill Dickey, Ted Wheeler, Harry Wilson, and honoree Dick Withnell—shared a common message about the importance of investing in treatment for the disease of addiction.

Over 300 guests gathered at the Sentinel Hotel’s Governor Ballroom to celebrate Dick’s achievement and raise funds for the De Paul Youth & Family Center. The event raised nearly $200,000 through sponsorships, tickets, and in room gifts. All event proceeds will go toward De Paul’s lifesaving addiction treatment programs for youth ages 13 to 17, funding the gap between the actual cost of treatment and what is covered by the Oregon Health Plan.

From De Paul Treatment Centers:

De Paul works with individuals, families and communities to create freedom from addiction.

De Paul Treatment Centers provides chemical dependency and co-occurring mental health treatment services to men, women, youth and families. More than 30,000 people have been served by the agency since its incorporation as an independent non-profit in 1977.

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