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Jon, there is also the possibility that Arthur Wallace lived right there on that hillside before Barbur Boulevard was constructed. When I first saw his gravestone it and the lot around it was encompassed by blackberries. My thanks too to the neighbor who has cared for the site since he found it in the brambles.

For readers who find themselves interested in historic cemeteries because of the lives represented there, the monuments, landscaping, heritage plantings, wildlife habitat value, etc., I encourage you to go on line for: Association for Gravestone Studies, a national organization primarily based in New England, but with an informative website and an annual memorable conference; Oregon Parks and Recreation, Heritage Conservation Division, Oregon Commission on Historic Cemeteries; and Oregon Historic Cemeteries Association.

posted 4 years, 6 months ago
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I'm comforted and delighted by the news of your 10/31 program. Thanks to Dirk Siedlecki and Rod Canzler for their dedication to two very different sites which I hope your program will allow time to explore. Historic cemeteries seem to get attention twice a year: Memorial Day and Halloween. During Memorial Day there is an honoring of those who came before, especially in the wars. But what is the meaning of October cemetery vandalism? Denial of Death?
There is so much to know: Artistic values expressed in tombstones. Traditional cemetery landscaping which expresses the culture of that place at that time: trees, shrubs, flowers. All serve as outdoor museums...just as much as...well... old buildings, bridges, statues? Again, thanks for the program. Didn't know it was coming up until tonight. Mirra Meyer, former Oregon Historic Cemeteries Commission and still caring.

posted 4 years, 6 months ago
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From the point of view of an "elder" living in an even more elderly house, I certainly can see this issue from the safety side. We all want to know that our houses are safe. And we want some clear assurance that this is so. But the complexities of the permit process, and horror stories from friends about requirements for additional repairs and updating, which went beyond their financial capacity to comply, leaves me leaning toward a "no". Innovative building and refitting an old house is of great interest to me and I want to go in that direction. However, the permit process isn't friendly. Far too expensive and far too time consuming.
I also wonder, if this initiative passes, what it will mean for homeowners if there is a loss. Will homeowners insurance companies deny payment on damages after repairs or upgrades that are allowed by this bill?
This is too complex an issue to put into state law without a full public and legislative process of review and consent.

posted 4 years, 6 months ago
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