[Heritage] Dates, theme announced for 2011 Oregon Heritage Conference

[Heritage Info]

Astoria, a community that has creatively used heritage to strengthen its
economy during the past decade, will be the host April 7-9 of the 2011
Oregon Heritage Conference.

The conference theme of “A Blockbuster Community: Heritage,
Authenticity and Vision” recognizes Astoria’s moviemaking history.
It also highlights the towns and cities across the country that are
using heritage, authenticity and vision to make communities appealing to
residents and visitors alike.

Heritage leaders from communities in Oregon and southwest Washington
will learn about resources and techniques for improving their operations
and organizations, as well as helping their towns and cities flourish.

Astoria has a long history with films (well, long in terms of
movie-making history). “The Fisherman’s Bride” was filmed in
Astoria in 1908 and is the first full-length movie filmed in Oregon.
Since then, at least eight other films have been made in Astoria,
including some blockbusters like “Kindergarten Cop”, “Free
Willy” and “Goonies.” Astoria is also taking note of its 200th
anniversary in 2011.

Oregon Heritage Conferences inform and inspire Oregonians involved in
the state’s cultural heritage efforts. Attendees include community
leaders, staff and volunteers from historical societies, museums,
historic cemeteries, ethnic organizations, schools, historic
preservation commissions, humanities groups, Main Street programs, the
tourism industry, economic development, history buffs and professional
historians, archaeologists, youth, and local, tribal, state and federal
governments.
 
This year’s conference will include keynote speakers, panels,
workshops, and behind-the-scenes visits to some of the area’s heritage
sites and historic buildings. The Oregon Heritage Excellence Award
presentations, the Oregon Heritage Fellowship research talks, and, of
course, its always popular movie night are also scheduled.

For more information about the Oregon Heritage Conference, visit
http://www.oregon.gov/OPRD/HCD/OHC/Conference.shtml or contact Kyle
Jansson at 503-986-0673 or heritage.info at state.or.us.

Mark your calendar now to attend the Oregon Heritage Conference April
7-9 in Astoria.