Rather than review a specific bar or brewery, this post is about some miscellaneous topics that continue to fill my cranium at the beginning of the year.
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For the Record…
In previous posts, I’ve mentioned my eclectic taste in music as evidenced on my iPhone – previously on CDs, cassettes and before that vinyl – 33, 78 and 45 rpms, in part, from my dad’s platters.
He had a great collection and it was one reason that from junior high, I became a fan of Big Band music – Glenn Miller, Artie Shaw, Bennie Goodman, et al. Background is in the first post I wrote about my wonderful parents, who met in New York City in the mid-forties when both worked for American Airlines. (#2 – #3)
Paula Kelly and the Modernaires
The young couple established their home in Merrick, Long Island, where my sister, Lynne, was born in 1946 and I in 1948. Dad loved Big Band music and they danced to the Glenn Miller Orchestra at the Glen Island Casino. They became friends with Paula Kelly and the Modernaires who performed there.
I evolved in college and listened to groups like the Four Seasons, Eagles, Fleetwood Mac, et al. (And as mentioned in my last post, during the time Craig “Dude” Hanneman was my roommate, The King of Cool – Dean Martin.)
As I progressed in my music (although unfortunately not in my selection of fiction) and I became enamored with both classical and jazz music. How I became an ardent fan of country-western, I don’t remember, but a major share of my playlists are now the greats such as George Jones, Don Williams (yes, I often get asked), Alan Jackson and Merle Haggard.
Rather than just using iTunes or YouTube, in my home office, I have a turntable and receiver and often play selections from the albums and CDs shown below:
“One could argue that country music from 30 or more years ago is close to extinct and that what you get now is a mix of pop and rock with a lap string guitar added and a southern accent.”
And Alan Jackson lamented the state of the music he loves during a recent interview by declaring that “country music is gone — and it’s not coming back.”
He and George Strait state their position in a wonderful number “Murder on Music Row.” Check out the superb melody on this link YouTube and this excerpt of the lyrics — Outstanding! (#4 – #5)
“But someone killed country music, cut out it’s heart and soul They got away with murder down on music row.
For the steel guitars no longer cry and fiddles barely play But drums and rock ‘n roll guitars are mixed right up in your face.
They thought no one would miss it, once it was dead and gone They said no one would buy them old, drinking and cheating songs Well, there ain’t no justice in it and the hard facts are cold Murder was committed down on music row.”
Another Perfect Example
Country-western tunes are often about aspirations. I came across this one recently on YouTube (check it out) and added it to my playlist. After all, who can quibble with the prayer “Lord Help Me Be the Kind of Person My Dog Thinks I Am ” by the Bellamy Brothers. (#6)
And the lyrics convey it well as evidenced by this excerpt:
“Sometimes I go to church on Sunday, With Saturday’s whiskey on my breath, But I keep praying and promising to quit Before I drink myself to death, Help me walk the straight and narrow, Change this light into a lamp, Oh Lord help me be the kind of person my dog thinks I am.
Now the preacher’s been real good to me, But I know who’s really been there in a jam. Lord help me be the kind of person my dog thinks I am.”
Country ballads often convey redemption such as George Jones’ classic “The Right Left Hand”:
“And the vows I took before Were all forever more But no matter how I tried, they came undone.
I put a golden band on the right left hand this time And the right left hand put a golden band on mine.”
“I made a wish upon a star I could have a brand new car Got tired of wishing So I stole one.
Seventeen and knew it all My dreams were big, but my thoughts were small So many roads somehow I chose The wrong one.
I wish mom could see me now And how I’ve turned it all around Lately I’ve been going down The right road.
But Jesus and mama always loved me Even when the devil took control Jesus and mama always loved me This I know.”
Now to finish, I have to share some of the fictitious country-western titles I’ve kept in my files for years – from the Oregonian’s former “The Edge” column. I don’t think either Kacey Musgrave or even Willie Nelson is going to sing any of these:
She was a bootlegger’s daughter and I loved her still
I’m sorry I made you cry, but at least your face is cleaner
I wish I were a woman so I could go out with a man like me
And in honor of the lawyers – “I can’t pass the bar and there’s one on my way home”
And Speaking of the Bar….
One of my favorite Beerchasing companions is attorney, Jim Westwood – a fellow Oregon City High School graduate where his mom, Catherine, tried to teach me the distinction between nominative and genitive cases for two years in Latin class.
In fact, to “honor” his mom, I’ll relate the dialogue at the last bar we visited when I gave the bartender my order:
Beerchaser I’ll have a martinus.
Jim: Don, that should be “martini
Beerchaser: Jim, if I had wanted a double, I would have told him.
Jim and I have been friends through legal-related issues and shared civic endeavors and then mug-raising for almost forty years. I tried to relate some of his story on my blog post published in 2013 where he was named a Beerchaser-of-the-Quarter.
This outstanding lawyer just turned eighty and the collage below, which I sent for his birthday, demonstrates his personality and affinity for Beerchasing.
Regardless of your political affiliation or philosophy, it’s imperative – possibly more than any time in US history – that Americans have a good grasp of the US Constitution. And I could go into a rant about the dearth of effective civic courses in our high schools.
That’s why Jim and his fellow Oregon coaches in the We the People National Competition deserve accolades both for their dedication and effectiveness in teaching these principles.
“In the last 20 years, teams representing the State of Oregon have earned six National titles, two National Runner-Up titles, six Third Place wins, and 23 top-ten finishes.
…The We the People National Finals, hosted by parent organization The Center for Civic Education, takes place each year in Washington, D.C. Approximately 48 teams compete each year, representing almost all U.S. states and territories.
Except for one year when he coached full time at Portland’s Parkrose High School, he was a unit coach at Grant every year between 2002 and 2020. And he’s remained pretty involved at Grant and other schools such as DeLaSalle North Catholic.
Four times the team he coached or assisted won the National Championship! The Grant Generals won the title in 2013, 2015 and 2018. In 2024, the team from Grant beat more than 48 state winners nationwide.
And you would be amazed at the regimen these kids face to prepare. They may not run wind sprints, but the equivalent of football Daily Doubles might consist of immersing themselves in the Bill of Rights in the morning and probing the nuances of the Equal Protection Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment over lunch. (#8)
“(Jim’s) a great teacher, a great coach and a great model citizen.’ He was honored last year as the 2012 Legal Citizen of the Year by the Classroom Law Project.”
To demonstrate why Jim is such a good coach, I first want to preface with the historic figure he most admires – George Washington. That’s why the Multnomah Bar Association in 2013 presented him with the individual portrait shown in the photo below by his Pulitzer winning friend, political cartoonist, Jack Ohman.
As we entered one bar a few years ago Jim commented:
“It must have been easy for George when he got asked for ID at a bar. All he had to do was show them a quarter.” (#9)
2013 MBA Award of Merit
Well in 2015, Coach Westwood announced to his team that if they won the National Championship, he would get a tattoo to recognize that victory. “1783” was inked on his left arm. For those wondering, it was the year Washington bade farewell to his officers at Fraunces Tavern and resigned as Commander-in-Chief.
Grant won again in 2018 and his second tattoo followed with a continuation of the Washington theme. Jim stated:
“The cursive writing above 1783 consists of the first two letters (with a small ‘o’ to complete the abbreviation of ‘George’) from George Washington’s signature on the Constitution as president of the 1787 Convention.”
He retired from being a full-time coach in 2019, but as Jim, with his characteristic modesty, then stated:
“I intended to fade into nothingness, but as has happened with other retiring coaches, Grant Con team is the Hotel California. You can never leave. The best description of me is ‘involved volunteer.”‘
I would suggest that the alumni from Jim’s team would not only row him across the Delaware River, but even try the Columbia (in honor of Jim’s law school.)
Although he was a volunteer and not a coach at the time of the 2024 victory, the ink flowed again and requires an explanation as well as an illustration of a lawyer’s logic:
“The Washington family coat of arms features three stars in a row. When Grant won Nationals last April, that was my thought for a tattoo design – three stars.
But then I was struck by the similarity of the Grant High logo – a ‘G’ with four stars in a row. So I killed two birds by doing the four-star design to honor both Washington and U.S. Grant High School.” (#10 – #11)
Washington Family Coat of ArmsGrant High LogoA Meld!
The Oregon competition for We The People took place on January 25th. Grant placed third and also received special recognition for their outstanding presentation. Cheers to the kids and their coaches for the exemplary commitment.
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During my thirteen years of Beerchasing where I’ve visited and reviewed over 400 bars and breweries, I’ve presented followers with photos and stories of only four sports bars. I’m just not really enamored with them and they seem somewhat stereotypical.
There are scads of big screen TV’s, trophies and sports memorabilia – a lot of it somewhat tacky – and often boisterous regulars wearing their team jerseys.
I cherish the conversations I’ve had in most of my bar/brewery visits, but sports bar patrons are often immersed in pro or college games and understandably are not eager to engage. Fortunately, I’ve had great Beerchasing companions at the four sports bars shown below – so I didn’t need to meet new people.
The Independent (2017) – a decent sports bar on SW Broadway in the heart of Portland where we had a robust group including the Faust clan.
The Angry Beaver Bar and Grill in Corvallis (2020) – this great watering hole in the heart of Corvallis was visited before an Oregon State vs. Washington State football game.
Our group included 1967 OSU Giant Killer starters, Billy Main and Steve Preece with his wife, plus the late Dr. Bob Gill along with my fraternity brother and friend of over 50 years, Jud Blakely. (#2)
Why the A and L Sports Pub?
Since I asserted above that I’m not a fan of sports bars, why would I chose the A and L when there are so many other good bars and breweries on my list to visit in the future?
My selection of the bar was based on my recent discovery of classic dive bar, Angelo’s thanks to a connection with Darren Zayman – a part-time bartender.
Both bars are owned by Angelo and Leonor Markantonatos, (thus, the A and L…) who opened Angelo’s in 1996, and before that owned the Vern. Four generations of the family and they have been a fixture in the Portland bar scene for decades.
Darren, first worked at the A and L after talking Angelo into hiring “a guy with absolutely no bar or restaurant experience with a novel sales approach”discussed in my post on Angelo’s. You should visit Angelo’s located in the Barmuda Triangle District on SE Hawthorne.
Darren Zayman (Daz) and Angelo’s regular, Paul
Daz suggested I raise a mug at the A and L, so I did a little research and discovered a peripheral item of interest on the bar in a Willamette Week article dated 2/15/23:
“But the Markantonatoses owe more than $25,000 in property taxes. In a brief phone conversation, Angelo, 91, said he gave the bar to his son, also named Angelo, 57. Angelo the elder says he’s dying, so we didn’t push him for details.
We’d love to talk to Angelo the younger about the tax issue, but he didn’t call us back. Nor did they respond to a message on their hyperactive Facebook page. The bar employee said her boss was ‘scarce’ and ‘hard to pin down.’
Two signs of compliance: The Markantonatos family made a property tax payment of $10,000 on Nov. 15, and another for $4,500 on Feb. 8.”
Beerchasing Companions
Since I wasn’t focused on meeting new people, I chose two of my favorite Beerchasers to join me – Jim Westwood and Bernie Stea – both lawyers. The last time the three of us had raised a mug together was in 2020 at the Rose City Book Pub. (#3 – #4)
Bernie SteaElise – Book Pub Owner with Stea and WestwoodJim Westwood
Those who follow this blog, know about Jim Westwood and his amazing background ranging from the Portland State College GE College Bowl, to a stint as a TV weatherman, to service in Navy Intelligence (where he learned Thai) to his distinguished career as an Oregon appellate lawyer.
But Bernie has an incredible background as well.
His Beerchasing exploits besides the Rose City Book Pub were at NEPO 42 and Zarz (gone but not forgotten) both in 2017. We tried for another at the Slow Bar in Portland, but it never happened.
Bernie and server at ZarzA healthy lunch at NEPO 42
While I was patiently waiting for him while downing an IPA, he called asking where I was, to which I replied, the Slow Bar (on Portland’s east side). He then somewhat sheepishly informed me that he was sitting in the Low Bar (permanently closed after the pandemic) in downtown Vancouver.
In order to salvage his pride, I didn’t remind him that I sent him a link to Slow Bar the day before confirming our lunch appointment. (#5)
My first encounter with Bernie was in 1980, when as the Oregon State Bar’sFinancial Manager, I had to question him as the Director of Continuing Legal Education about his CLE department budget. He showed up for the interrogation with his Osborne laptop computer with the budget laid out on a SuperCalc spreadsheet. (Even then, he was an early-adopter of technology.)
As I “attacked” his figures we started a friendly rivalry which entertained Bar staff when we “replicated” the dialogue at all-staff meetings. It became a well-received staged production in the tradition of Jane Curtain and Dan Akroyd on Saturday Night Live.
After Bernie would make a mock eloquent plea as to why his budget should be increased, my reply was:
In 2017 when he didn’t show up at Slow Bar, I commented to Bernie that he must have used the “Maps Application” on his Osborne. Bernie, however, is one of the smartest and most versatile people I’ve had the privilege to call a friend.
His undergrad days were at the University of Maryland, where he had a double major in Journalism and Engineering (who’s ever heard of that combination….) and then graduation at Maryland’s Francis King Carey School of Law.
He was a member of the distinguished scholastic society Order of the Coif and Law Review, and then worked as a law clerk at the Maryland Court of Appeals.Bernie has repeatedly distinguished himself (other than with his misguided budget presentations)
After jobs at the Oregon State Bar and Portland State University, Bernie has spent the last twenty-five years as a technology guru – helping law firms, start-ups and corporate clients on all facets of electronically stored information, particularly in the context of litigation and investigatory matters and on the legal responsibilities associated with electronic evidence collection, review and production.
And concurrently – for about twelve years – he and his wife – former Portland radio newswoman and anchor, Debb Janes – were managing real estate brokers specializing in family estates on acreage, and multi-generational homes in SW Washington. (#8)
Perhaps that education and experience should give me pause when labeling Bernie an “ignorant slut…” (But probably not….)
But I Digress – Back to the A and L
Now it’s a little bit perplexing why Willamette Week labeled the A and L as a “beloved sports bar,”since they have never featured it in their Annual Best Bar Guide. I guess, however, that a watering hole that for the 2023 Super Bowl offered an “all-you-eat spaghetti and meat sauce with French bread and salad for $15” and is a Pittsburgh Steelers bar will attract a fond following.
And although the exterior is somewhat off-putting, the social media reviews are consistently positive. These three are typical:
“The A&L Burger was de-lish and the fries were on point. Friendly service and great food! We’ll be back soon.” Yelp 3/16/24
“Great people, great service, great drinks, great prices, and 6-10 dart boards set up at a time! What more could you ask for. Also have pool and video lotto.” Yelp 12/26/22
“…..The inside is like night and day from the outside. The place is roomy, has more than a dozen TVs, a whole darts room that is legit, Oregon Lottery, and one of the best cheesesteaks I’ve had in Portland (I’m from Jersey and my wife is from N Philly). The staff has always been nice to me even though I’m not a regular.” Yelp 2/11/23
The A and L, with its very expansive space, seemed a bit sterile, although it has a great juke box. But to be fair, that’s probably because there were just a handful of patrons on a Wednesday afternoon.
Contrast that with the description on a Sunday morning in 2018 – typical, I assume, during any NFL Sunday:
“First and foremost, they open early on Steeler Sundays, due to the time difference….so we thought we would ‘arrive early’ by getting to the bar at 9:30 am. It was PACKED with Steeler fans already at that point. More than half of this very large sports bar is dedicated to the Steelers and their fans.” Yelp 10/9/18
As a non-lawyer, but one who worked with them for almost forty years, I could share stories with these two counselors who both worked at large competitor firms (Miller Nash and Stoel Rives with my Schwabe Williamson.
It was only when these two intellectual behemoths started waxing eloquent about the rule against perpetuities and how complexity theory understands law as an emergent, self-organizing system that I focused on my $3.50 pint of draft PBR and began thinking of my next dive bar to explore….
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There are still a lot of dive bars in Portland – certainly not as many as when I started my Beerchasing trek in 2011 – but Angelo’s (not Saloon or Bar – just Angelo’s) which I hadn’t discovered until last week, is a classic.
And I was quite surprised, given my hobby, that Angelo’s – located on SE 46th and Hawthorne, had never appeared on my radar, nor had its “sister bar” A & L Sports Pub – also owned by Angelo Markantonatos. I never found it listed in Willamette Week’s annual best bars publication which has been a primary research source.
It was even more surprising since it’s in the heart of Portland’s Bar-muda Triangle – a phenomenon that I haven’t really addressed in this blog for at least twelve years, since discovering it on one of my first Beerchasing visits in 2012 at the notable Bar of the Gods.
That was followed less than a half-year later when I raised a mug with Beerchaser notable, Jim Westwood, at the Tanker Bar – on the same block as Bar of the Gods. Alas, the Tanker’s armor was insufficient to withstand the pandemic’ mortars and it’s no longer with us. (Note the prices on the BOG’s blackboard below.)
As you will see below, I loved Angelo’s and the description fromPortland Monthly is spot on:
“Looking for a bar with a relaxed atmosphere, laid-back feel, with friendly service and ‘real’ people? If so, visit Angelo’s and enjoy some cheap beer, play some tunes on the juke box, or challenge your friend to a game of pool.”
“…an area of bars that collectively saturate the SE Hawthorne Arts District at the base of Mt Tabor.”
That said, the same source also describes similar watering-hole saturated areas as being in Eugene, Oregon (the intersection of Olive and West Broadway) and in Lawrence near the University of Kansas.
Then there’s the Beer-muda Triangle in Missoula, Montana. And at one time in the late ‘60’s, before the SAE House at Oregon State went alcohol free, it could easily have referenced a group of rooms on the first floor of the house study wing. (I graduated in 1970,)
Not that the topic is debated frequently, but in a Willamette Week article from May 11th entitled Douchebags Not Allowed in Car Free Zone..” the paper asserts that Portland’s Bar-muda is located in the Old Town neighborhood on the west side, near Voodoo Donuts.” (That’s the first time in thirteen years, I’ve used the term “douchebag” in this blog.)
Regardless of the location, it is appropriate to label any Bar-muda Triangle as a “Stumble Zone.” (#3)
The Stumble Zone?
Perhaps the dilemma is resolved based on info gleaned at the “wisegeek” website stating:
“ A Bar-muda Triangle is an area where the concentration of bars is especially high. The number of bars located within an area known as a bar-muda triangle may be greater than three, of course, and sometimes an area with only two bars may be colloquially termed a bar-muda triangle. You may also hear a bar-muda triangle referred to as a beer-muda triangle.”
Pardon the digression, but before we get back to Angelo’s just a few more references which would make Pythagoras smile. (#4)
The good news is that should you get pulled over in any of the Bar-muda Triangles, the officer, rather than putting you through sobriety tests, will just ask you to state the formula for the area of an isosceles triangle which everyone know is 1/2 × Base × Height…(#5 – #7)
Now Back to Angelo’s
In late May, I got an e-mail from Darren Zayman (Daz) who saw the blog and told me that for a long time, he’d wanted to own or operate a bar. He thought it might be fun and interesting to meet and chat at the bar where he was working – Angelo’s.
I’ve met some wonderful people while Beerchasing and jumped at the opportunity to both meet another one and visit a new bar, although with scheduling issues, we didn’t accomplish that until September 25th. I assumed from our e-mail exchanges that Darren would be an interesting and engaging personality, and I was correct. (#8)
As I walked in, Darren gave a hearty “Hey Don,” greeting. He was off-duty and sitting at the end of the bar and introduced me to Paul, an Angelo’s regular and,Lena, the part-time bartender. For the next forty-five minutes the four of us shared stories and we reflected on Angelo’s and the bars – present and past – in the Bar-muda Triangle.
Daz has an artistic background and has worked for years as a self-employed technical illustrator. At one time he thought of doing illustrations of every bar in Portland – one reason he came across Thebeerchaser.com. (#9 – #12)
Sketch of Angelo’s
“I’ve lived in Shanghai, China and Washington, but I consider ‘Hawthorne’as home. I attended nearby Mount Tabor Middle School and grew up here.”
He stated that to fulfill his goal of working (and eventually owning a bar) last year he sent out at least forty resumes for bartending jobs. As one might expect, with zero experience, he got zero callbacks. But Daz was not to be deterred, and you will see how this guy is motivated and has a great sales personality.
Darren always “liked the vibe” at the A and L Sports Pub at 59th and NE Glisan, so about a year ago, he hand-delivered a letter addressed to the owner. (The A and L is also owned by Angelo.) The substance of the letter was as follows:
“I want to work for you, and I think you should hire me as I would be a great employee. Since I have no experience, I will pay you $50 daily for the first week and work for free the second week. Then you can judge whether you want to retain me.”
Angelo, who Darren described as somewhat of a gruff Greek guy, responded, “Come in. I’m busy and on the move, but I want to meet you and find out what’s your deal!” (#13 – #15)
So, Darren got the job and started working – barbacking and no bartending – with absolutely no instructions. “I was hustling,” he laughed. After less than a month, Angelo came to him and said, “I’ve got a job at another bar I own on Hawthorne. If you want it, it’s yours.”
He started working Monday and Tuesday nights and a lot of Saturdays because the female bartender usually didn’t show up. And he learned bartending the hard way.
His first order was for a “tequila and pineapple juice.” Darren poured them together and the guy, after gulping it down said, “I meant a shot of each separately, now you have to give me a free one.” Darren diplomatically refused as Angelo, sitting at the end of the bar observed laughing.
Lena – a personable bartender
Lena, the personable part-time bartender has worked for fifteen years at a number of Portland bars and attended Oregon State before graduating from theUniversity of Oregon. Graduation was followed by three months of travel to multiple countries. She loves working at Angelo’s and remembers when there was a stage and they had great live music.
Sitting next to DAZ, drinking a Rainier Tall Boy, was a guy named Paul. He offered his left hand to shake and said that he was a carpenter but injured his right hand and was recuperating. I detected a slight accent and inquired to which he responded,“I’m from Belfast.”
Darren said, “Paul has been an Angelo’s regular for decades”, and he had stories from many of the dive bars in Portland and was a great conversationalist.
Darren and Paul (from Belfast!)
One of the bars we discussed was the Cheerful Tortoise – near the Portland State campus and which I first reviewed in 2012. DAZ remembered going there as a little kid because his stepdad, who was the Chair of the Geography Department at Portland State, (his mom also worked for the Department) would have meetings there. Lena also mentioned that it was the first bar she ever frequented.
Angelo’s has a good selection of draft and bottled beers and DAZ or Lena will make you a great cocktail. It has had a history of great food with a restaurant in the adjacent and connected space – first a Portuguese restaurant named Fado Portuguese Kitchen and then a Greek bistro named Kouzina at Angelo’s – first opened in 2017.
Since February, however, the space is occupied by Michael’s Italian Beef and Sausage Company – a treasured Portland eatery that’s been around for almost fifty years and lost its lease on Sandy Blvd. Portland Monthly offered this description:
“…But that’s just part of the charm at this very un-Portland sandwich shop, where hot hoagie rolls are stuffed with Chicago-style Italian roast beef sliced thin, marinated in its own juicy gravy, and covered in sautéed peppers and onions; or with home-baked meatballs served ‘pizza-style’ in tomato sauce; or with deliciously gut-busting Italian sausages.”
And in Closing
Two final stories which are evidence that Angelo’s has both the ambiance and character of the dives I love.
Typical classic dive bar fixtures are pool tables, foosball, Big Buck Hunter, classic pinball machines and a great juke box. Angelo’s has all of them – even two foosball machines. As Paul described it:
“One is the ‘People’s’ table and one is the ‘Elite machine. People know which one they should play and which one to avoid.”
While we were reminiscing about Bar-muda dives, a guy named Jeff, who identified himself as an out-of-town regular, told us that he overheard our stories and needed to add a tale:
“One time my friend and I were here and playing at the Elite foosball machine. A one-armed guy came up and challenged my friend. Unbelievably, he used his foot in lieu of his other hand and proceeded to decimate my friend in a game.”
“How can a theater company make a 400-plus-year-old play feel fresh? Speculative Drama’s answer is to perform Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night, under the direction of Myrrh Larsen, not on a stage but in a dive bar—specifically Angelo’s on Southeast Hawthorne.”
As Angelo’s customers sit or stand amid a buzz of conversation, recorded music and clinking ice, the voice of Orsino, Duke of Illyria begins the show by rising over the din, saying, ‘If music be the food of love, play on…’
So what if there’s a Big Buck Hunter arcade game behind him and the red and blue lights of a Pabst sign in the next room? Orsino looks as if he belongs in Angelo’s as he strides through the crowd, drinking from a tall glass with a green straw. In this environment, even his iambic pentameter sounds as natural as water rippling over rocks.
…..The show ends with the joyful spectacle of the entire cast cutting loose and singing karaoke.” (#15 – #17)
Darren said that each of the ten nights it played, “Twelfth Night” sold out. The actors were integrated with the bar patrons – it was immersive – one never knew when the guy next to you would become part of the play.
Cheers
To the four generations of Angelo Markantonatos family, who opened Angelo’s in 1996, and before that owned the Vern and who have been a fixture in the Portland bar scene for decades.
To Angelo II who had the foresight to give a motivated young man (DAZ) with no experience, an opportunity to become a valued employee in his organization.
To Darren, for his optimism and spirit and reaching out to Thebeerchaser.
Jim Westwood – BOQ 3/28/13 – Jim joins Jack as being regarded as one of the premier appellate lawyers in the Pacific Northwest.
In fact, we deliberately separated the two during the event to avoid them having an animated discussion of Jack’s 1986 victory in front of the Oregon Supreme Court (June v Roberts) involving initiative ballot titles, nuclear energy and Trojan (not the one you’re thinking of….)
Of course, they would have also discussed Jim’s 2005 case before the Oregon Supremes (City of Nyssa v. Dufloth/Smith) involving free speech, nude dancers, prohibited touching and the distinction between the distance of four feet and one foot. (Surprisingly, Trojans were not involved in this case….)
But Jim – one of my most frequent Beerchasing companions – has a story that transcends his legal accomplishments.
(And I’m not talking about being a fellow graduate of Oregon City High School where his mom, Catherine was my Latin teacher for two years, his stint as a fill-in weatherman on KGW television or how he learned Thai when he was in Naval Intelligence). (#4)
“The 415 points scored in their final match ties them for fifth-highest single-game total achieved, and their 1725 points total set a new record at the time and is fourth highest overall.
The March 26, 1965, issue of Time has an article on how the College Bowl victories helped change Portland State’s image as ‘the flunk-out school’ for University of Oregon and Oregon State drop-outs…” (#5)
To obtain some idea of the erudition of this team (Jim describes them as students with GPA’s around 3.0 who were just “nerds.”) take a look at this YouTube link from the University of San Francisco match:
Little Beast started in 2017 in the former quarters of Brannon’s in Beaverton which never gained traction (Kevin Brannon is a former Schwabe lawyer). LB also has a brewing facility in Clackamas.
“The competition is greater and frankly, business is slow….We’ve seen decreasing sales for the last two years.“
Well, Little Beast continues to strive, notwithstanding the competition and perhaps, creativity, excellent beer and outstanding food overcome the struggle for market share. You should find out yourself. (#6)
But he also had a memorable broadcast media career:
“For 13 years, Faust moderated Town Hall, a weekly public affairs television program on ABC affiliate KATU. The program featured discussions, often contentious, between public officials, experts and plain citizens on topics that ranged from serious (child abuse) to light (alien abductions).
It drew high ratings and received numerous honors including national awards.”
Jack served as the Portland Maverick’s lawyer and a good friend of actor Bing Russell, team owner and his son, actor, Kurt. He obtained a notable victory for Russel in an arbitration with the Pacific Coast League.
Besides his intellect, one of the traits that endeared Jack, not only to his partners but the entire law firm, was his keen sense of humor. He was always willing to participate in my schemes to make presentations at the firm’s retreats more interesting.
For example, take the two YouTube videos below – the first being part of a retreat video and the second being the outtakes to produce the final product. Jack is “admonishing” a colleague who has a definite resemblance to former Beerchaser-of-the-Quarter, Art Vandelay.
Amy Faust
Amy Faust – BOQ 4/11/17 – Jack’s daughter (the only father-daughter BOQ) had an extended radio broadcast career. For nineteen years – in two different stints – she was the Amy in the Mike and Amy Show on KWJJ – The Wolf.
At one point, Jack co-hosted with Amy when Mike was gone and did a very credible job – probably feeling as much pressure to perform as when he argued in front of the Oregon Supreme Court…..!
Amy is a talented and creative person with a fascinating career besides her time in radio. This includes stints in documentary film production, freelance writing, authoring advertising copy, producing TV commercials, television production and as location manager for the show Portlandia.
Jim Westwood and Amy having a spirited debate with oversight by Amy’s husband, Kevin.
Jim Westwood
Jim Westwood – BOQ 3/28/13 – Jim joins Jack as being regarded as one of the premier appellate lawyers in the Pacific Northwest.
In fact, we deliberately separated the two during the event to avoid them having an animated discussion of Jack’s 1986 victory in front of the Oregon Supreme Court (June v Roberts) involving initiative ballot titles, nuclear energy and Trojan (not the one you’re thinking of….)
Of course, they would have also discussed Jim’s 2005 case before the Oregon Supremes (City of Nyssa v. Dufloth/Smith) involving free speech, nude dancers, prohibited touching and the distinction between the distance of four feet and one foot. (Surprisingly, Trojans were not involved in this case….)
But Jim – one of my most frequent Beerchasing companions – has a story that transcends his legal accomplishments.
(And I’m not talking about being a fellow graduate of Oregon City High School where his mom, Catherine was my Latin teacher for two years, his stint as a fill-in weatherman on KGW television or how he learned Thai when he was in Naval Intelligence). (#4)
“The 415 points scored in their final match ties them for fifth-highest single-game total achieved, and their 1725 points total set a new record at the time and is fourth highest overall.
The March 26, 1965, issue of Time has an article on how the College Bowl victories helped change Portland State’s image as ‘the flunk-out school’ for University of Oregon and Oregon State drop-outs…” (#5)
To obtain some idea of the erudition of this team (Jim describes them as students with GPA’s around 3.0 who were just “nerds.”) take a look at this YouTube link from the University of San Francisco match:
Little Beast started in 2017 in the former quarters of Brannon’s in Beaverton which never gained traction (Kevin Brannon is a former Schwabe lawyer). LB also has a brewing facility in Clackamas.
“The competition is greater and frankly, business is slow….We’ve seen decreasing sales for the last two years.“
Well, Little Beast continues to strive, notwithstanding the competition and perhaps, creativity, excellent beer and outstanding food overcome the struggle for market share. You should find out yourself. (#6)
I’ll finish below with some final thoughts on LB, but first I need to single out three of my Beerchasing companions. Periodically on this blog, I recognize an individual or group who may or may not have anything to do with bars or breweries but has good story.
In our group at LB, I had three former Beerchasers-of-the-Quarter – Jack Faust – Amy Faust and Jim Westwood – and I want to briefly highlight their stories.
But he also had a memorable broadcast media career:
“For 13 years, Faust moderated Town Hall, a weekly public affairs television program on ABC affiliate KATU. The program featured discussions, often contentious, between public officials, experts and plain citizens on topics that ranged from serious (child abuse) to light (alien abductions).
It drew high ratings and received numerous honors including national awards.”
Jack served as the Portland Maverick’s lawyer and a good friend of actor Bing Russell, team owner and his son, actor, Kurt. He obtained a notable victory for Russel in an arbitration with the Pacific Coast League.
Besides his intellect, one of the traits that endeared Jack, not only to his partners but the entire law firm, was his keen sense of humor. He was always willing to participate in my schemes to make presentations at the firm’s retreats more interesting.
For example, take the two YouTube videos below – the first being part of a retreat video and the second being the outtakes to produce the final product. Jack is “admonishing” a colleague who has a definite resemblance to former Beerchaser-of-the-Quarter, Art Vandelay.
Amy Faust
Amy Faust – BOQ 4/11/17 – Jack’s daughter (the only father-daughter BOQ) had an extended radio broadcast career. For nineteen years – in two different stints – she was the Amy in the Mike and Amy Show on KWJJ – The Wolf.
At one point, Jack co-hosted with Amy when Mike was gone and did a very credible job – probably feeling as much pressure to perform as when he argued in front of the Oregon Supreme Court…..!
Amy is a talented and creative person with a fascinating career besides her time in radio. This includes stints in documentary film production, freelance writing, authoring advertising copy, producing TV commercials, television production and as location manager for the show Portlandia.
Jim Westwood and Amy having a spirited debate with oversight by Amy’s husband, Kevin.
Jim Westwood
Jim Westwood – BOQ 3/28/13 – Jim joins Jack as being regarded as one of the premier appellate lawyers in the Pacific Northwest.
In fact, we deliberately separated the two during the event to avoid them having an animated discussion of Jack’s 1986 victory in front of the Oregon Supreme Court (June v Roberts) involving initiative ballot titles, nuclear energy and Trojan (not the one you’re thinking of….)
Of course, they would have also discussed Jim’s 2005 case before the Oregon Supremes (City of Nyssa v. Dufloth/Smith) involving free speech, nude dancers, prohibited touching and the distinction between the distance of four feet and one foot. (Surprisingly, Trojans were not involved in this case….)
But Jim – one of my most frequent Beerchasing companions – has a story that transcends his legal accomplishments.
(And I’m not talking about being a fellow graduate of Oregon City High School where his mom, Catherine was my Latin teacher for two years, his stint as a fill-in weatherman on KGW television or how he learned Thai when he was in Naval Intelligence). (#4)
“The 415 points scored in their final match ties them for fifth-highest single-game total achieved, and their 1725 points total set a new record at the time and is fourth highest overall.
The March 26, 1965, issue of Time has an article on how the College Bowl victories helped change Portland State’s image as ‘the flunk-out school’ for University of Oregon and Oregon State drop-outs…” (#5)
To obtain some idea of the erudition of this team (Jim describes them as students with GPA’s around 3.0 who were just “nerds.”) take a look at this YouTube link from the University of San Francisco match:
Little Beast started in 2017 in the former quarters of Brannon’s in Beaverton which never gained traction (Kevin Brannon is a former Schwabe lawyer). LB also has a brewing facility in Clackamas.
“The competition is greater and frankly, business is slow….We’ve seen decreasing sales for the last two years.“
Well, Little Beast continues to strive, notwithstanding the competition and perhaps, creativity, excellent beer and outstanding food overcome the struggle for market share. You should find out yourself. (#6)
Welcome back to Thebeerchaser. If you are seeing this post through an e-mail, please visit the blog by clicking on the title above to see all of the photos and the video at the end of the post and so the narrative isn’t clipped or shortened. (External photo attribution at the end of the post # 1)
My companions always make these outings enjoyable, and this was no exception. I’ve had numerous Beerchasings with the “Faust Clan” – Jack, Amy, and Charlie. (Kevin Frazier, Amy’s husband and Max, Charlie’s son also joined us. Jack’s wife Alice, joined us a number of times in the past and passed away last year.)
Similarly, lawyers Jim Westwood and my former and now-retired Schwabe law colleagues, Dave Bartz and Jim Finn – all three of which had notable legal careers as did Jack were also there. As mentioned, Susan Bartz also was a great companion.
Our server, Preston, did a great job of accommodating us with our own table in a prime spot as well as taking the photo below:
Clockwise Sue Bartz, Thebeerchaser, Dave Bartz, Charlie Faust, Jim Westwood, Amy Faust, Max Faust, Jack Faust and Jim Finn
The Eats
Although Brenda Crow with her culinary background, including a stint at Portland’s Olympic Provisions, has been the guiding hand for the food offerings, Little Beast (hereafter “LB”) entered a partnership with Kevin Koch, the owner of Lawless Barbecue in October 2021 when it became available at the beer garden. (#2)
And the partnership seems to mesh as well as the beer and the barbeque as evident from the pairings available:
“The result is a menu that includes 13-hour smoked prime brisket, burnt ends, spare ribs and pulled pork….
The mains are rounded out by a handful of classic sides, like barbecue beans, loaded potato salad, mac and cheese, and a vinegar-based slaw—dishes that Koch says are carefully crafted from scratch and not just an afterthought.” (Willamette Week 10/27/21) (#3)
Dave Bartz had the Mac-n-Cheese with two pork ribs. “Delish,” he stated. (I was sitting next to Dave and was tempted to surreptitiously dig in but was still remembering his years as my boss as Co-Managing Partner at the Schwabe firm…..)
Sue Bartz enjoyed the burnt ends and Jim Finn took an order home.
I was tempted….
The menu is more than inviting with starters such as nachos, pastrami salad and even Frito pie, sandwiches and inviting sides and the prices are very reasonable.
But let’s look at this 12/10/23 Yelp review which does a decent job of making one want to double his or her dose of statins to partake:
“We were a little hungry so we decided to order from their bbq menu, option for their brisket and potato salad. Both items were chef’s kiss! The brisket was tender and juicy and absolutely melted in my mouth.
The potato salad had nice chunky potato without being mushy. I love that the bbq sauce came on the side so I can choose how much sauce I wanted to eat.“
The Company
I’ll finish below with some final thoughts on LB, but first I need to single out three of my Beerchasing companions. Periodically on this blog, I recognize an individual or group who may or may not have anything to do with bars or breweries but has good story.
In our group at LB, I had three former Beerchasers-of-the-Quarter – Jack Faust – Amy Faust and Jim Westwood – and I want to briefly highlight their stories.
But he also had a memorable broadcast media career:
“For 13 years, Faust moderated Town Hall, a weekly public affairs television program on ABC affiliate KATU. The program featured discussions, often contentious, between public officials, experts and plain citizens on topics that ranged from serious (child abuse) to light (alien abductions).
It drew high ratings and received numerous honors including national awards.”
Jack served as the Portland Maverick’s lawyer and a good friend of actor Bing Russell, team owner and his son, actor, Kurt. He obtained a notable victory for Russel in an arbitration with the Pacific Coast League.
Besides his intellect, one of the traits that endeared Jack, not only to his partners but the entire law firm, was his keen sense of humor. He was always willing to participate in my schemes to make presentations at the firm’s retreats more interesting.
For example, take the two YouTube videos below – the first being part of a retreat video and the second being the outtakes to produce the final product. Jack is “admonishing” a colleague who has a definite resemblance to former Beerchaser-of-the-Quarter, Art Vandelay.
Amy Faust
Amy Faust – BOQ 4/11/17 – Jack’s daughter (the only father-daughter BOQ) had an extended radio broadcast career. For nineteen years – in two different stints – she was the Amy in the Mike and Amy Show on KWJJ – The Wolf.
At one point, Jack co-hosted with Amy when Mike was gone and did a very credible job – probably feeling as much pressure to perform as when he argued in front of the Oregon Supreme Court…..!
Amy is a talented and creative person with a fascinating career besides her time in radio. This includes stints in documentary film production, freelance writing, authoring advertising copy, producing TV commercials, television production and as location manager for the show Portlandia.
Jim Westwood and Amy having a spirited debate with oversight by Amy’s husband, Kevin.
Jim Westwood
Jim Westwood – BOQ 3/28/13 – Jim joins Jack as being regarded as one of the premier appellate lawyers in the Pacific Northwest.
In fact, we deliberately separated the two during the event to avoid them having an animated discussion of Jack’s 1986 victory in front of the Oregon Supreme Court (June v Roberts) involving initiative ballot titles, nuclear energy and Trojan (not the one you’re thinking of….)
Of course, they would have also discussed Jim’s 2005 case before the Oregon Supremes (City of Nyssa v. Dufloth/Smith) involving free speech, nude dancers, prohibited touching and the distinction between the distance of four feet and one foot. (Surprisingly, Trojans were not involved in this case….)
But Jim – one of my most frequent Beerchasing companions – has a story that transcends his legal accomplishments.
(And I’m not talking about being a fellow graduate of Oregon City High School where his mom, Catherine was my Latin teacher for two years, his stint as a fill-in weatherman on KGW television or how he learned Thai when he was in Naval Intelligence). (#4)
“The 415 points scored in their final match ties them for fifth-highest single-game total achieved, and their 1725 points total set a new record at the time and is fourth highest overall.
The March 26, 1965, issue of Time has an article on how the College Bowl victories helped change Portland State’s image as ‘the flunk-out school’ for University of Oregon and Oregon State drop-outs…” (#5)
To obtain some idea of the erudition of this team (Jim describes them as students with GPA’s around 3.0 who were just “nerds.”) take a look at this YouTube link from the University of San Francisco match:
Little Beast started in 2017 in the former quarters of Brannon’s in Beaverton which never gained traction (Kevin Brannon is a former Schwabe lawyer). LB also has a brewing facility in Clackamas.
“The competition is greater and frankly, business is slow….We’ve seen decreasing sales for the last two years.“
Well, Little Beast continues to strive, notwithstanding the competition and perhaps, creativity, excellent beer and outstanding food overcome the struggle for market share. You should find out yourself. (#6)
Welcome back to Thebeerchaser. If you are seeing this post through an e-mail, please visit the blog by clicking on the title above to see all of the photos at the end of the post and so the narrative isn’t clipped or shortened. External photo attribution at the end of the post. (#1)
The number of iconic Portland bars along Sandy Boulevard on Portland’s east side is notable. The recently renovated Sandy Jug at 74th and Sandy rejoins two classics I’ve reviewed – the Sandy Hut, (“Handy Slut”) and the Slammer.
The Jug, until mid-2023, was known as Pirate’s Cove – a well-known Portland strip club!
The Sandy Blvd. bars are not quite as concentrated as the dives in the infamous Barmuda Triangle in Southeast Portland. (TheUrban Dictionary – pinpoints the BT as “an area of bars that collectively saturate the SE Hawthorne Arts District at the base of Mt Tabor.”).
However, one can have his or her own focused and lengthy Beerchasing journey just along the 4 miles of Sandy Boulevard from the Slammer to the Escape.
The Auspicious History
The Jug because of its history and distinctive structure is known not only in Oregon, but throughout the US as a place to see. As stated in a 2013 post of RoadsideAmerica.com:
“Pirate’s Cove — built in 1928 as a tire shop and auto repair garage (the Orange Blossom Jug service station – Waymarking.com) has been a bar, strip joint, soda shop… a jug with so many uses.”
Cheers to Portland’s Bar Saviors – Some of Their Resurrections (#2- #4)
Stripped to the Bone…
Now this is a blog about bars and breweries and not nudie bars, but Pirates’ Cove is integral to the history of the Sandy Jug. For context, a little over ten years ago, an urban myth circulated about the Portland’s ranking in the US strip club hit parade. Willamette Week’s 2013 article gave insight:
As one can see from the excerpt below, the answer is “yes” with a disclaimer:
“Turns out Portland, with one strip club for every 9,578 residents, is indeed the leader among the 50 largest U.S. cities, narrowly edging Tampa at 10,813 and blowing Las Vegas’ 33,002 out of the water. Myth confirmed.” (per capita and not total number)
And Pirate’s Cove, evidently had a good reputation, if you use the term loosely, among its peers as documented by this article in Here Magazine – an online international travel guide to cities:
Pirate’s Cove was listed first with this description:
“Pirate’s Cove is kind of a staple in Portland,” says Cloud, a dancer here. ‘It’s not very popular in that it doesn’t get all of the attention, but it’s been in town for a long time. It’s one of those places where locals really dig it.’
Not convinced? The giant sign outside the establishment has been known to say ‘We Care A Lot.’ Who doesn’t love a neighborhood dive with heart?”
“Jack Sparrow himself would love – the outside of the club is shaped as a large jug of rum.” (#8)
Aargh!!! Rum….
Grading the Transformation
The physical transformation is not remarkable, but positive:
“Inside, Boothby and Archambeault have opened up the ceiling, revealing the impressive woodwork inside the jug….the tavern isn’t very large inside, but a new patio will add additional seating, especially once warmer weather returns.” Oregon Live 1/25/24
The only remnants of the strip club are a chandelier outside the woman’s restroom and a wall filled with pictures of the former dancers in the men’s restroom.
But the most “tangible” (so to speak) change is in the atmosphere. From the stereotypical strip club “ambiance” of dim lighting, cheap perfume, worn carpet and lonely desperation, it has evolved into a wonderful neighborhood bar pervaded by a welcome and energetic vibe.
Hillary is no stranger to Beerchasing, including a trip to the Vern – another of the Boothby -Archambeault retrofits. She declined my suggestion to change her name for this trip since the bar has a clever offer – valid every day: patrons with the first name Sandy get their first drink on the house.
Some might question the aura generated by my drinking buddies on the next trip since four of the six are or were lawyers. (clockwise starting second from left in teal jacket Steve Schell, Jim Westwood, Larry Frank and John Kelly). Lawyers have a tendency to school….
Besides being smart, personable and good at drinking beer, I’m proud to say that each of these guys (and Hillary) have contributed untold hours to civic and charitable activities which have made Portland a better community.
Tom Kelly, Steve Schell, Jim Westwood, John Kelly, Larry Frank and Doug Walta
The Staff and the Trappings
Both of my visits were on weekday afternoons and the place was hopping. The weather precluded the patio being opened, but most tables and the bar were filled by the time we left and it was an amiable and enthusiastic crowd.
Jenna, the Manager and our bartender,was personable and excited about the future of the bar and her staff was efficient and friendly. Take a look at this message from Management on Facebook.
Jenna
“Not sure how it’s been 2 and1/2 months since we opened our doors, but one thing is for sure…we are so happy to be here. Thanks so much for all the love and support during the last few months. We couldn’t have done it without you.
And a heartfelt thanks to our staff for being just delightful, hardworking people that make it all worthwhile. We appreciate each and every one of you.”
The walls are filled with good stuff and great mementos and bar relics fill the idiosyncratic space – there are some neat nooks and crannies and hanging lights brighten up the place..
Economical?
Both of my visits were during Happy Hour which is 2:00 to 6:00 every day and what a deal! You can get a domestic draft for $3 and micro-draft for $5 and a well drink for $4 plus some limited food offerings.
During regular hours, prices are also very reasonable with the standard burger at $11.99 and sandwiches from $10 to $12. I considered a shot of a Blueberry Kamikaze for $8, but feared going down in flames on the way home. (#10 – #12)
Happy Hour Prices
We didn’t eat either time, but the Yelp reviews on both the food and the overall experience are overwhelmingly positive. The only negative features mentioned were a sound system that needed some work and making it more clear to patrons that they have to order from the bar:
“Went tonight to check it out and had a chopped cheese sandwich, fries and a couple of beers. Everything was literally cooked perfectly, seasoned perfectly and tasted amazing!! Friendly service and a great laid back vibe definitely make this a place to check out!! Will definitely be back!” Mar 19, 2024 (and this from a guy from Peoria so as the old saying goes….).
and
“I’ve been driving by this place for years. It used to be a strip club and recently new owners have transformed it into a pretty cool neighborhood bar. Decor is funky and eclectic. Music is mostly 70s/80s. Drinks and food are tasty and affordable. Staff is friendly. I’m giving 5 stars because I’m rooting for this place to succeed”.Feb 14, 2024
You should pay a visit to this historic Portland watering hole and support the continuing efforts of Boothby and Archambeault. I’ll be looking forward to their next project. (#13)
Welcome back to Thebeerchaser. If you are seeing this post through an e-mail, please visit the blog by clicking on the title at the top to see all of the photos so the narrative is not clipped or shortened.
This post is about two outstanding guys and an excellent dive bar with a friendly and memorable bartender. The topic begs for some editorial digressions so you will see one or two additional posts which allow me to wander.
Before I tell you about the bar, let me tell you why I admire the two friends who Beerchased with me.
Matt Love and David Dickson
David Dickson
I’ve known David since about 1991 – both of our daughters went to grade school together and on Father-Daughter Hikes for years on numerous Oregon wilderness trails. These continued during the girls’ high school years.
They included reaching the summit of the 10,363 foot South Sister in the fall of 1997, when the girls were about 12 and 13 years old.
The moms of this group would argue that the Mom-Daughter Book Club during these same years, will have a more lasting impact on these now fine young women.
The girls will never forget the memory of hiking out from our camp on the slope of the South Sister by flashlight, the sight of a mouse which drowned in our pot of coffee left out overnight or the penetrating nasal-cleansing smell of the latrine at the head of the Jefferson Park Trail.
I submit that these will yield a more substantive legacy than discussion of the passage of Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy March from childhood to womanhood in Louisa May Alcott’s Little Women. (External photo attribution at end of post #1 – #2)
David is a Stanford grad where he came close to being a right-handed pitcher on The Cardinal freshman baseball team, but washing dishes for tuition and beer money won out.
His subsequent career as a Development Director in higher-education and long-term civic civic contributions are considerably more notable than his earned-run average would have been in Palo Alto…..
I admire David for his perpetual optimism, his concern for the homeless (to be discussed in the next post) and his spirit of high adventure such as shown while he was demonstrating his skill at Big Buck Hunter while Beerchasing with Adam Davis and me at Portland’s Belmont Inn in 2013.
His venturous enthusiasm led him to solo exploration of far-flung regions after college and before graduate school at the University of Oregon.
He traveled through Central America (Mexico, Guatemala, Nicaragua, El Salvador and Costa Rica) and South America (Columbia, Venezuela, Equator and Peru). To my knowledge he was not involved in any insurgencies or surreptitious attempts to tamper with voting machines in Venezuela.
I asked David about his post-Stanford adventures and enjoyed his response:
“After getting my BA at Stanford in 1972, I spent two years as a VISTA volunteer/community organizer in Cherokee County, Oklahoma. When I returned, I took off with a loaded backpack and $800 in travelers checks, purchased with the money I had saved from VISTA.
My transport was 3rd class bus (accompanied by chickens and machetes); hitchhiking on the back of pickups and getting lost in the Andes; hitchhiking on merchant ships, hiking when no-one would pick me up and flying once from Panama City to Colombia.
I probably stayed in hotels about 4 nights total (some flea infested), but generally set up my tent in people’s yards or nearby hills or stretched out my sleeping bag in bus depots.”
He showed this same wanderlust on our Father-Daughter hikes which is why we usually had him walk at the end of our group rather than lead it.
Randy Wenger, David and Charlie Rose debating Forest Service map.
Among other traits, I admire Matt for his meaningful and ongoing efforts to help the homeless and downtrodden, his deep love for canines, his perseverance in the face of hardship, his creativity and dedication as a former high school teacher.
Last, but certainly not least, he’s a fellow-letterman in basketball for the Pioneers at OCHS – a numberof years after me, but it should be noted that his team did not win the TYV Title and go to the State Tournament……
But my feeling of kinship with Matt originated in 2012 when I came across his blog “Let it Pour.net” – right after I started my Beerchasing hobby and was researching dive bars on the Oregon Coast.
“Let it Pour” originated as a popular column inHipfish Monthly, an alternative magazine in Astoria on the north Oregon Coast. He maintained his blog from 1999 to 2011 and unfortunately a number of the watering holes he chronicled are no longer in business.
But Matt’s descriptions will live on as he is a keen observer of both the ambiance of dive bars and the interactions that take place among the patrons – he’s an expert in describing those in entertaining style.
Matt is a prolific and talented author and now owns a small Astoria publishing house he founded in 2003 – The Nestucca Spit Press. You’ll hear more about Matt’s books in the next post The only problem I have with Matt’s prose is that it forces me to highlight many paragraphs so I can come back and quote his stuff (with attribution, of course!)
The descriptions in his books of emotional interactions sometimes bring tears to my eyes. His bar chronicles were a key factor in motivating me to pursue my Beerchasing adventures, which have continued for over twelve years.
This guy is a master of observation – not only human relationships, but the trappings and character(s) of these dives. He coined the term “Oregon Tavern Age”(OTA)
Matt spent hours in bars converting the notes he took “jotting down observations with a pencil on a golf score card”and his conversations with the regulars into a captivating collection of stories and anecdotes with great graphic illustrations – “courtesy of his ex-wife.”
For example this one from a bar – Pitch’s East – a dive in Port Orford:
“One day, many years ago, a woman sat in Pitch’s Tavern in Port Orford. She saw a horse drinking beer from a saucer on the counter. On another visit, she saw a live boxer crab holding an unlit cigarette in one claw and a glass of beer in the other.”
Take this one which made me check out the Old Oregon Saloon in Lincoln City as one of my first Coast dives – “Where Friends and Family Meet.” It was a great bar and I have returned many times:
“(It’s) a damn fine gritty place to drink beer – a lot of beer….The regulars call it The Old O and after spending time there over the years, I feel it is not too outrageous to suggest the nickname stands not only for The Old Oregon Tavern in Lincoln City — which it does — but really some of the patrons’ last long ago orgasm. Maybe in the Johnson Administration.”
Now I know that Matt, who coaches writers, would advise against excess, but indulge me, because these are so good, I love to share them – so just two more brief ones – both from the Sportsman’s Pub and Grub in Pacific City.
It’s justified. After all for a number of years, Matt served as the watering hole’s “Writer in Residence.”
“A man blasted through the door and obliterated the tavern’s somnolent mood. His hair was feathered….and perfect. He appeared anywhere from 40 to 70 years old. Many years later, I coined the phrase ‘Oregon Tavern Age’ or ‘OTA’ to describe the condition….
The man’s name was Larry or Wayne, both solid OTA names. He sat down with us at the bar. He was loud. I struck up a conversation with him and learned he had $10,000 in cash stuffed into his pants pocket…..
He had cashed a check the previous afternoon – a settlement from an injury suffered in an automobile accident and was ready to party down – hard. He bought the house a round, screamed an encouraging profanity, and then bolted out the door.”
Lastly:
“So the story goes, a veteran patron requested that upon his death, he wanted his wake held in the tavern. Well, the old timer dies, he was cremated, and of course the management obliged him.
So his drinking buddies crowded in the men’s bathroom, hoisted their pints for a second…and flushed his ashes down the toilet. Top that drug testing, antiseptic, bottom line, unfunky, God fearing, screaming baby, corporate brewpubs!”
But What About Jake’s Place?
I have more to tell you about both David Dickson and Matt Love and our discussions while Beerchasing which involve some significant Portland issues.
Also why Jake’s Place is a bar you should visit and more importantly, why you should talk to Cassie, the Bartender. (By the way, I’ll relate why I initially thought Matt made a mistake when he named the bar where we should meet).
(Welcome back to Thebeerchaser. If you are seeing this post through an e-mail, please visit the blog by clicking on the title above to see all of the photos and so the narrative is not clipped or shortened. External photo attribution is at the end of the post.#1)
I recently discovered The Basement Public House – a wonderful neighborhood bar in SE Portland and in starting to convey the reasons for that evaluation, embarked on two side trips on TheBeerchaser posts:
These establishments ranged from two in Germany to a Fort Worth, Texas dive to an upscale joint in Brazil.
The photos above show a sample of pubs mentioned in these two posts. (Clockwise – Life of Riley Tavern and the Grand Cafe in Portland; Mary’s Basement in Schwabach, Germany; The Basement English Pub in Blumenau, Brazil and Basement Bar in Fort Worth, Texas. #2 – #4).
“(Blumenau) has a cultural agenda focused on parties based on the daily life and habits of European immigrants, with emphasis on German heritage, including the second largest Oktoberfest in the world, which takes place during 17 days in October.”
Musical Implications?
Rooftop Bars could generate great tunes such as The Drifters unforgettable “Up on the Roof,“ but there are understandably, not many songs about basements. I did, however, find one on YouTube entitled “The Basement Song” by a somewhat obscure British indie rock band named The Bluetones.
And finally, another British group, Basement – stylistically described as “melodic hardcore punk.” (#5 – #7)
But Without Further Digression….
Why was I so enamored by Portland’s Basement Public House? As I stated in the previous posts, while the moniker might connote visions of a dark, musty, cluttered dive bar, The Basement Pub – actually at street level in the basement of an historic home in SE Portland – is like a entering a living room.
A few Yelp reviews below catch the flavor quite well, but the highlights for me were:
It’s clean and there’s a quiet, but upscale ambiance that is comfortable and friendly. The bar is horseshoe shaped and attractive This is heightened by the affable and competent bartender, Elizabeth, who was there on both of my visits.
Some of the tables have game boards built into the glass tops and there’s also an alcove with gameboards which are used for events such as cribbage contests and Trivia Night. People sit at some of the tables with computers while others are involved in animated conversation both at the bar and at the tables.
There are Christmas-type lights of various colors which provide a nice touch and complement a few old-fashioned neon signs such as one for Rainer Beer.
The don’t offer an expansive tap list, but have a good variety of NW beers with seven (including PBR) and one cider on tap plus an additional selection of bottles and cans. The prices are very reasonable.
And one of the unique features is an Olympia Beer tap which actually dispenses water for thirsty patrons.
There’s some nice art and photos on the walls – nothing fancy, but the historical photos are interesting. Two old-fashioned pinball machines contribute to the character as does the expansive, heated patio a few steps from the bar.
To further my contention that The Basement is not a dive bar I discovered another unique feature in my Beerchasing travels. This is the only watering hole I’ve ever visited where they had a book of matches in the bathroom – a courtesy to subsequent users to mitigate lingering odors.
I would suggest that no dive bar would ever think of this remedy!
“This place is so authentic that the bathroom even looked like my Grandpa’s basement commode. What a strange trip down memory lane that was.” Yelp 10/26/08
In my reviews, I try to emphasize distinguishing features of each establishment I visit. Now the aquarium at The Basement Pub was not unique in my experience: however………….
It’s the only one that I remember besides the epitome of that phenomenon at the Dive Bar in Sacramento we visited in 2016. Only four blocks from the California Sate Capitol, patrons can see the 40 foot long saltwater aquarium over the long bar.
Dive Bar has a head mermaid and mermaid trainer and you can even hire the mermaids for your own party:
“Stunning Professional Mermaids and Mermen with years of swimming and underwater performance experience are available to enchant your guests with their playful spirits, beautiful acapella siren songs, water performance, prop work and so much more!”
Fortunately, it appears that the pandemic did not dampen the spirits of the aquatic performers and they are still going strong. It’s open from 3:00 to 2 AM seven days a week. (#7 – #8)
But I Digressed — Again!
Below are excerpts from a few Yelp Reviews which do a great job of capturing the essence of the The Basement Pub.
“This is the epitome of a perfect neighborhood bar. It’s so comfortable here, the staff is friendly, the back patio is awesome, and the customers sitting out front on warm days just always seem to be so nice and friendly. When you just want a beer (alone, or with friends), this is your spot. At least its mine.” (5/11/18)
“Not much to say. This a great local bar with a cool laid back vibe. Not a dive bar in my mind, it’s a kick ass bar!” 9/30/19
“The Basement Pub is a spot you want to go regardless how it feels outside. This is the spot you should be a regular at because of how cool, calm, and collected this pub is. It is LITERALLY a basement in a 4-story home right off of the street.” 10/10/22
Now during good weather, there’s some nice tables in the front, but the heated patio is a great place to relax during any month. (#9)
Beerchasing Companions
Those who follow this blog know that I treasure the get-togethers that Beerchasing provides and The Basement was no exception.
The first time, I met my former two bosses from the law firm – President, Dave Bartz and Managing Partner, Mark Long. The three of us served as an Executive Committee for the firm’s Board of Directors.
They were not only distinguished lawyers in their specialties, but had remarkable management instincts – and they complemented each other artfully. Sharing the leadership of the firm rather than relying on a single chief was an untried concept when they were asked by the firm to accept the positions in 2001.
The length of their tenure in these roles (16 years) belies the respect of their lawyer colleagues and that of all firm personnel. They are both recently retired and honored with Emeritus status. (From left: Long, Bartz and Williams)
I enjoyed the first visit so much that I succeeded in putting together a larger group for my return. This one – five retired friends. As my acquaintances often remind me, “Dirt, you are still under the curse, ‘May your life be filled with lawyers,'” since five of the seven on the two visits fit that profile.
Jim Westood – semi-retired lawyer who followers of this blog know is one of the most frequent Beerchasing colleagues and a former Beerchaser-of-the-Quarter. His education, etc. have been well documented in previous narratives.
Larry Frank – retired and a graduate of the University of Iowa and Northwestern School of Law of Lewis & Clark College in Portland. He joined The Standard in Portland in 1988 and was promoted to lead the legal staff of its Insurance Service Group before federal and state regulatory agencies, legislative bodies and industry associations and managed litigation until he retired in 2016.
John Kelly – Educated at Georgetown University and then a masters degree in City and Regional Planning from the Harvard Kennedy School before earning his law degree at Northwestern (Lewis and Clark).
His focus was planning – specializing in land use and transportation. He had stints for the State of Oregon, but much of his career was for consulting firms on highway, streetcar and bus rapid transit projects for ODOT, Metro and TriMet.
Tom Kelly – Twin brother of John Kelly and his career may best be summed up by this August 2022 headline lead sentence in the Portland Business Journal:
“A Portland Construction Icon is set to Retire……Tom Kelly built the company his father started into a regional powerhouse that’s, by one measure, the country’s largest remodeler of its kind.”
He graduated from the University of Oregon, joined the Neil Kelly company, became owner and retired forty-four years later.
Dr. Doug Walta – I highlighted Doug in a previous blog post. He received his medical degree at the University of Minnesota and a degree in Health Care Management and Leadership at the Harvard Wharton School and also a Master of Endoscopy.
He subsequently founded the Oregon Clinic and served as CEO of Clinical Services for Providence Health and Services in Oregon. He is a pioneer in fiber optics diagnostic techniques. (Clockwise: Williams, Westwood, Walta, Frank, John Kelly and Tom Kelly)
I might add, one of the refreshing things about being around this group is recognizing the commitment to civic, charitable and professional activities which each one exemplifies.
We must have been a spectacle to the other regulars as we consumed multiple mugs, told stories and bemoaned the advanced state of technology, the challenge of getting to our health clubs and what has happened to our beloved City.
(We agreed to do it again soon – something which is a good idea given the median age of our group.)
What About the Food?
None of my two groups had food while at The Basement Pub and that factor is not one of its strengths. It’s essentially limited to Indian food and snacks (pickled vegetables and chips/chutney – each only $3). You have to like curry as all of the six “small plates” feature it, but they’re only $6 to $8 and served over rice.
I’m not sure these prices are current as they don’t have a website and their Facebook page has not had a new post since the end of 2021.
The few comments on the food were mostly positive although somewhat dated:
“The menu consists of a few curry and pickle options that are nice for snacking on. Definitely not a dinner destination but this type of small plate spice does pair well with the cold beer.” Yelp 8/15/19
“The menu is inexpensive and tasty.” Yelp 3/18/09
“The modest daily food menu serves as a staple for those who just want a snack to continue with the task of drinking or to tide them over until reaching their nights end.” Yelp 2/4/13
I did have to laugh at this one, however:
“This is a decent neighborhood night cap spot, however, smells strongly of curry. (We didn’t experience that.) Last night, I gained the courage to try the illustrious curry and much to my detriment, I can fully say 10/10 would not recommend, unless you’re doing a bowel prep for a colonoscopy the next day.” Yelp 5/10/19
If that had been the case, at least you could use the matches in the bathroom…….
Cocktails
Mixed drinks are definitely an attribute – both quality and price and how about that “Dirty Bird” – (Shot of Old Crow and a Pint of Pabst!)
“The cocktails are affordable, using straight forward, quality, simple ingredients. On happy hour they are great value for money.” Yelp 8/15/19
In Conclusion
I loved everything about The Basement Pub and will be returning. It’s a community and epitomizes the type of establishment which makes this hobby so fulfilling. Try it!
#6. Public Domain – Wikimedia Commons (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Drifters#/media/File:The_Drifters.png) This advertisement (or image from an advertisement) is in the public domain because it was published in a collective work (such as a periodical issue) in the United States between 1928 and 1977 and without a copyright notice specific to the advertisement.
(Welcome back to Thebeerchaser. If you are seeing this post through an e-mail, please visit the blog by clicking on the title above to see all of the photos and so the narrative is not clipped or shortened.)
I’m “back” in the saddle again and out one month + from back fusion surgery – now able to drive, walk around the neighborhood and Beerchase again – no golf for several months and until physical therapy is done.
The new COVID strain is again dampening my efforts to visit new establishments with friends; however, my next post will be about a wonderful dive bar in my Oregon “hometown” – Oregon City (the oldest incorporated city west of the Rocky Mountains).
In March, I visited Howell’s Lounge twice in the same week – the first time with two semi-retired lawyers and fellow Oregon City High School grads – Pat Green (’65) and Beerchasing regular and former Beerchaser-of-the-Quarter, Jim Westwood (’62). I graduated in 1966.
I returned the next evening – a Saturday night for dinner with my wife, Janet, and Pat and his wife, Leona. Both outings were very enjoyable and the memories took us back many years.
The bar’s history – opened in 1929 by the Howell Family, who operated until the twin brothers, Frank and Charlie retired in 1978 – deserves a post of it’s own, so stay tuned.
Green and Westwood return to their “roots!”
A “spire” for Greatness, but Don’t Fall “Prey” to Initial Success
In August, 2021, when COVID appeared to be on one of its downswings, I had lunch at the new Steeplejack Brewery in NW Portland. I had talked previously to Brody Day, the co-owner, who with his former college buddy, Dustin Harder, opened the new brewpub in early 2021 in what was previously an historic church in NE Portland.
The church was originally dedicated In 1909 by then President of the United States, William Howard Taft, as the First Universalist Church of Good Tidings which then became Metropolitan Community Church until it moved in 2019.
In a September blog post, I showed some photos illustrating how these two entrepreneurs had done a wonderful job – at great expense – to preserve this building which otherwise, would have become another urban condominium.
And for a number of reasons – maybe Oregon’s only all-female brewing staff (led by Brewmaster Anna Buxton), their commitment to historic preservation, the location and the fact that they brew good beer – the brewery was greeted with enthusiasm. As stated in the July 21, 2021 edition of New School Beer and Cider:
“In this rare instance, the real-life experience of entering the church of beer actually exceeds expectations and presents a truly, stunningly beautiful place that will make you believe in a higher power.”
Day and Harder are entrepreneurs and do not rest on their laurels or pews. In the spring of 2022, a second location opened in Beaverton – an expansive establishment like the original. It seats about 200 people and is the former home of another pub – they remodeled and again made significant capital improvements.
Like the original pub, the menu is somewhat limited – pizza and salads and some sides rice balls, polenta and side dishes. (External photo credits at end of this post *1)
According to New School Beer and Cider (2/17/22) the second location was not a spur of the moment decision:
“(It – the Beaverton location was) in the works since before the brewery even opened their doors as part of a grander plan to serve not only the inner city but the broader Oregon market.
‘We wanted to find the right location where we could be part of the neighborhood and serve our neighbors beer and pizza in an place that is consistent with our flagship location in Northeast Portland,’ says managing partner Brody Day, who co-founded SteepleJack with longtime friend Dustin Harder. ‘We took a significant amount of time and toured a lot of properties to find the perfect location” says Day.'”
Now perhaps, the two young businessmen found a Bible from the church in their original location and read Genesis Chapter 9 – “Be fruitful and multiply…” because their momentum has continued as forcefully as the beer flowing from a keg at a fraternity pre-function. As reported in Willamette Week:
“Just over a month after Steeplejack Brewing launched its second location—and a little under a year after opening its first—the company is expanding again. A third outpost will begin operations on Friday, July 1. 2022.”
The Hillsboro establishment – a 17,000 square foot facility in a former warehouse – “…the home of a taproom, beer garden and kitchen as well as a small production brewery and canning line purchased from the now defunct Wiens Brewing of Temecula, California.”.(New School Beer and Cider 7/12/21.)
Steeplejack was subsequently named “Best New Brewery” at the 2022 Oregon Beer Awards. (*3-4)
Steeplejack is a great story and the co-owners deserve credit for their immediate success. That said, in the eleven years since I started this hobby – and most notably in the last three, I’ve seen numerous breweries – starting off with unbelievable acclaim and positive financial results exceeding any expectation.
These once-bustling establishments are now gone or struggling to stay afloat – and many had effective management and loyal customers, but withered under increasing competition, staffing issues and costs. Admittedly, I know nothing about how Steeplejack is capitalized and the strength of their income statement since opening, but I hope in five years, we can continue to toast their success in all of their locations.
My Way or the Highway??
We’ve all read about small planes which have made emergency landings on highways in the past. For example, the photo below is one from 2012, after a small airplane made an emergency landing on Oregon Highway11 approximately 17 miles east of Pendleton.
The highway was closed for a short period to move the aircraft off the main highway and then was closed again for a short time to allow the plane to take off. (*4)
But the one last week in Missouri is worth noting for two reasons:
The plane was piloted by a student pilot without another pilot in the plane and ran out of gas.
The student pilot was arrested for DUI (Driving Under the Influence)
According to NBC News:
“A student pilot who landed a small plane on a Missouri highway early Friday was arrested on charges including driving while intoxicated, authorities said. (emphasis added)
The pilot of the single-engine Piper Cherokee landed the plane about 2:45 a.m. on Interstate 70 near Grain Valley, a city about 22 miles east of Kansas City, Mo. The Missouri Highway Patrol tweeted that the plane ran out of fuel, hastening the freeway arrival, and hit a guardrail.
……35-year-old John T. Seesing, was hospitalized with a minor injury before being booked into jail, according to highway patrol….Seesing also faces allegations of careless and imprudent driving involving a crash, felony drug and gun possession, and possession of marijuana and drug paraphernalia, according to an arrest report.”
It will be interesting to see how his lawyer fights the charges e.g. does DUI apply to an airplane on a highway, does the Highway Patrol have jurisdiction, etc.
It reminds me of a fascinating case in Lincoln City, Oregon on the Coast Highway 101, on October 16, 2012. One James Greene, exited a bar in his motorized wheelchair and proceeded across the crosswalk whereupon he hit a moving pickup truck. (*5)
He was subsequently convicted of DUI by a jury, fined $1,500, had his driver’s license suspended – ultimately for three years – and lost his insurance. But when he appealed, a 2016 panel of the Oregon Court of Appeals unanimously reversed his conviction with the logic “…..that a person merely crossing the street should be considered a pedestrian, and therefore not a ‘person who drives a vehicle.'” (emphasis added)
The Court carved out this exception and didn’t buy the State’s assumption that a vehicle is “any device in, upon or by which any person or property is or may be transported or drawn upon a public highway and includes vehicles that are propelled or powered by any means.” (*6)
Had Greene been in the bicycle lane or on the roadway, his appeal would probably been unsuccessful.
So will a Missouri jury buy the the assertion that an airplane (and one out of gas no less) “operating” on a public highway is a “vehicle” and will the pilot’s arrest for DUI stick. The lawyers will love this one!
Darwin’s Theory Evolves…
Those who follow this blog know that one of my favorite dive bars is Darwin’s Theory in Anchorage, Alaska. And my affection for the bar is not just because Darwin, the owner, is an Oregon State University alum.
There’s no draft beer or hard liquor, but free popcorn, a great juke box, the “Heavy Petting Zoo” in the backroom!.. and the staff and patrons are wonderful (including the late and great bartender, Mary Jean, shown in the picture above.)
This Yelp review will help affirm my sentiments:
“When you step inside, you’ll realize that this is no hipster dive bar. No sir! This has been a dive bar since inception and doesn’t appear to have changed. Beer in the bottle, great service, and interesting patrons round out the perfect dive-bar experience.”Yelp – 11/13 by Eric from Nevada City, CA
And I’ll always remember my conversation with a friendly guy I sat next to at the bar. (This was in 2014 and we had eaten dinner at a brewery earlier, but at 9:30 it was still total daylight – I couldn’t sleep – so I left Janet in our hotel room and walked the two blocks to Darwin’s).
Bill was in his fifties and an oil field worker, in addition to having fished in the Bering Sea and running marijuana from Mexico to the East coast in the ’70’s.“I had an old Lincoln with really big fenders….” I also asked him about bars in Anchorage and he said to be careful because in the last few years there had been a few shootings at bars close by.
Big fenders for “storage”…*7
Well, Darwin publishes a quarterly newsletter and for those who are planning to visit Anchorage, I’m pleased to report that they have not let supply-chain issues deter them in 2022:
“The popcorn machine after nine years of constant production of our famous (free) popcorn, died. You wouldn’t think finding a new machine would be so difficult. But it was!
The Ice Machine was a different matter. After 17 years it too gave out. That replacement was ‘easy squeezy. There was one in town just waiting. The same-day replacement put Darwin’s back in business with anyone noticing.” (*8)
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