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On Sunday, I went on a nice day trip to Champoeg State Park. It’s really nice this time of year. The crowds are gone, and the fall colors are resplendent.

Old street sign from town destroyed by flooding

Oregon’s first provisional government was formed there in 1843. In addition to the Native Americans, there were only a handful of European trappers and burly mountain men in the area at that time. They knew that a large influx of people would soon be arriving from back East, and that unless they formed a government, their claims to the land could be at risk. The town thrived until 1861, when a large flood on the Willamette River inundated the settlement.

I wandered the trails, stared at the historical sites, and just enjoyed the scenery. I saw a blue heron, a kestrel, and a red-tailed hawk. The park also features a museum, visitor center, disc golf, boat dock, and camping facilities (including yurts).

What are some of your favorite places to visit around Portland this time of year?

Lately, the dark rainy commute has been getting me down.

Not today though. I was in a superbly good mood. I was smiling from ear to ear. The election results have given me hope. I can’t help but get a little teary-eyed at this historic event. Congratulations, President-elect Obama.

Who else is in a great mood today?

Saw this ghostly Halloween rowboat on the Willamette today. It was eerily drifting along by the Burnside Bridge around 12:45pm.

It was a little spooky — as if Charon fell out while he was ferrying passengers on the River Styx.

Happy Halloween everyone.

The smoking ban effect in January 2009. Are you happy? Are you annoyed? Bartenders, is this going to cost you money? Swingers, is this going to cost you scores?

I play live music in bars. My nose gets stuffed up and my throat gets scratchy when I have to perform in a poorly ventilated dive. However, I have spent many a pleasant night in smoky halls like The Horse Brass, The Sandy Hut, and The Twilight. Will it be the same or will the vibe be ruined?

Tell me what you think.

If you are looking for something to do on Friday, I highly recommend a tour of the Lone Fir Cemetery. The graveyard has a storied past. Actors dress up as ghosts of various infamous characters buried there and recite their story whilst standing on their actual grave. Creepy and oh so delightful. Wear some warm gloves and bring a thermos of hot cider. It’s a hoot. I’ve gone for the past two years. I give it three thumbs up. Wikipedia has a nice entry on the history of the cemetery.

Information from the Friends of Lone Fir Cemetery Web site:

Friday, October 31
Rain or Moonshine
Tours are approximately 45 minutes in length and will occur between 6:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m. at the Southeast 26th and Stark Street entrance of the cemetery
$5.00 suggested donation