Yesterday four members of our staff attended a viewing of our movie "From One Rose" at Mary's Woods Retirement Community, in Lake Oswego, Oregon.

For those unfamiliar with this lovely establishment, Mary's Woods provides housing and health services for seniors, which includes retired Sisters of the local order (Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary).



Rose Festival Associate Executive Director Marilyn Clint spoke about the movie prior to the screening, then answered questions and shared memories with those in attendance afterwards. (Marilyn was the Executive Producer of "From One Rose" -- and also happens to be my younger sister.)



Personally, I was totally charmed by the lovely people in attendance of the event -- many who had dressed up for this special occasion.

Of course, I never mind another excuse to see it, as I'm probably one of the biggest fans of this film. I was fortunate to play my small part in the production by spending eight (busy) hours one day gathering up slews of family photos, many of which ended up being used to tell the Rose Festival story relayed in "From One Rose." (And, yes, it's true -- I do cry every single time I see it...)

For those of you who haven't yet seen the movie, you're missing something really special! It's more than just a tale about the Rose Festival -- and it's far from a simple documentary effort. It's a very human story -- one that includes excitement, romance and tradegy, while telling the history of Rose Festival -- along with large doses of Portland and Oregon history, as well. In fact, it imparts the feel of the what the nation -- and the world -- experienced during the 100 years it spans.

And there's never a 'popcorn moment' (boring part) during it!


Seniors gathered around us afterwards, prompted by the movie to share their own personal memories -- something that I think this movie manages to do quite well, by the way. What higher praise can you give a film than to say it entertains, makes you think -- and encourages you to share?

I look forward to future screenings -- including the big one on Saturday, June 7, at the Historic Hollywood Theatre (located on Sandy Boulevard in Portland). For more information about the movie, be sure to drop by the "From One Rose" page at our website. Who knows? You might want to join us when we gather to view it during Rose Festival this year!

-Charlie M. Clint, PRFF Webmaster