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Oral history interview with Frodo Okulam

This oral history interview with Frodo Okulam was conducted by Brisa Peters at the offices of SisterSpirit in Portland, Oregon, on November 2, 2000. Peters conducted the interview for the Gay and Lesbian Archives of the Pacific Northwest as part of Professor Ann Mussey's senior capstone class on LGBTQ history at Portland State University. The interview transcript includes a written introduction by Peters, as well as a copy of Okulam's curriculum vitae.

In this interview, Okulam discusses her early life in Southwest Portland, her living situation at the time of the interview in 2000, and the origins of her name. She discusses her gender identity as a child and her experience as a lesbian when she was a teenager in the 1960s. She speaks about what "The Lord of the Rings" meant to her and describes how the story saved her life and influenced her spirituality. She discusses her early relationships and her family's reaction to her sexuality. She talks about her experience at Portland State University, including her involvement with the Women's Union. She describes the social life for lesbians in Portland, including bars and coffee shops that she frequented. She talks about practicing Wicca and describes participating in a ceremony during the 1980 solar eclipse. She describes her polyamorous relationship at the time of the interview in 2000, and speaks at length about her involvement in SisterSpirit and the Metropolitan Community Church. She discusses her book, "The Julian Mystique," and closes the interview by talking about teaching women's spirituality at Portland State University, and about some of her activism.

Okulam, Frodo

Oral history interview with Susie Shepherd

This oral history interview with Susie Shepherd was conducted by Erin Sexton and Jamie Walton on November 4, 2000. Sexton and Walton conducted the interview for the Gay and Lesbian Archives of the Pacific Northwest as part of Professor Ann Mussey's senior capstone class on LGBTQ history at Portland State University. Several of Shepherd's pets were also present and occasionally interrupted the interview.

In this interview, Shepherd discusses her identity as a gay woman. She talks about working with Jerry Weller on the Portland Town Council; about her experiences at Stephens College in Columbia, Missouri, and at Portland State University; and about her life as a lesbian in the 1970s. She speaks at length about coming out to her parents. She then speaks about her activism for gay rights with the Portland Town Council during the 1970s, and talks about some of the people she worked with, politicians they lobbied, and some of the opposition they faced. She also describes coming out on the television show "Town Hall." She discusses her abuse of alcohol in the late 1970s, describes how it affected her life and relationships, and talks about her recovery through Alcoholics Anonymous. She talks about her involvement in the Leather community, including winning the title of International Ms. Leather in 1989, and winning the title of International Master and Slaver with her partner, K.T. Chase, in 1992. She also describes how she parlayed those titles to further her activism for gay rights. She closes the interview by discussing her management of the Bill and Ann Shepherd Legal Scholarship.

Shepherd, Susie (Susan Mary), 1949-

Northwest Power Planning Council Oral History Project

  • NWPPC
  • Collection
  • 1998-05-21 - 2004-05-26

This series of interviews was conducted by Michael O'Rourke and Jim Strassmaier as part of the Oregon Historical Society oral history program, beginning in 1998. The purpose of this oral history project was to document the history and purpose of the Northwest Power Planning Council, which is now known as the Northwest Power and Conservation Council.

The Northwest Power Planning Council is a four-state regional planning body formed by Congress through the Northwest Power Act of 1980 to develop and maintain regional conservation and electric power plans and a fish and wildlife program. The council is composed of two representatives from each member state: Oregon, Washington, Idaho, and Montana. The mission of the council is "to preserve the benefits of the Columbia River for future generations." The body was originally known as the Pacific Northwest Electric Power and Conservation Planning Council; the name was shortened to Northwest Power Planning Council in October 1981, and in 2003, the name was changed to the Northwest Power and Conservation Council.

Northwest Power Planning Council (U.S.)

Oral history interview with John N. Etchart

This oral history interview with John N. Etchart was conducted by Michael O'Rourke from August 8, 2002, to May 26, 2004. The interview was conducted as part of the Northwest Power Planning Council Oral History Project, which documented the history and purpose of the Northwest Power Planning Council, now known as the Northwest Power and Conservation Council. The interview was conducted in two sessions.

In the first interview session, conducted in Bend, Oregon, on August 8, 2002, Etchart discusses his family background and early life on a ranch in northeastern Montana, including his education, his family's political beliefs, and his involvement in athletics. He talks about his experiences at Carroll College in Helena, Montana, and then describes his experiences in the U.S. Marine Corps during the Vietnam War. He also talks about studying law at the University of San Francisco, about pursuing a career in education and counseling, and about his marriage to Sarah Fortune Russell. He speaks about serving as the inland states coordinator for the Northern Tier Pipeline, and about his brief service as an under-secretary of the Department of Interior. He then discusses his work as a vice president of the Burlington Northern Railroad. He talks about the election of Montana Governor Marc Racicot, then speaks at length about becoming a council member from Montana on the Northwest Power Planning Council in 1993. He shares his thoughts about the council's activities in the 1980s, particularly regarding the failure of the Washington Public Power Supply System, and talks about his fellow council members.

In the second interview session, conducted over the telephone on May 26, 2004, Etchart shares his reasons for voting against the NWPPC's 1994 fish and wildlife plan, talks about how the council changed after the 1994 elections, and speaks at length about the controversy surrounding the departure of Executive Director Ed Sheets. He closes the interview by discussing his work as council chair from 1995 to 2000.

Etchart, John N. (John Newton), 1945-2017

Oral history interview with John Harrison and John Shurts

This oral history interview with John Harrison and John Shurts was conducted by Michael O'Rourke on May 21, 1998. The interview was conducted as part of the Northwest Power Planning Council Oral History Project, which documented the history and purpose of the Northwest Power Planning Council, now known as the Northwest Power and Conservation Council.

In this interview, Harrison and Shurts speak at length about the origins of the 1980 Northwest Power Act, and describe the provisions of the bill. They describe the power planning and fish conservation responsibilities of the Northwest Power Planning Council. They speak about the challenges the council faced in its attempts to protect salmon populations, and about the application of the Endangered Species Act in the Pacific Northwest. They discuss how the changing politics in the Pacific Northwest in the 1990s affected the council's work. They speak at length about the relationship between the Northwest Power Planning Council and the Bonneville Power Administration, particularly regarding funding.

Shurts, John, 1956-

Oral history interview with Peter J. Paquet

This oral history interview with Peter J. Paquet was conducted by Michael O'Rourke from October 21, 1998, to April 18, 2000. The interview was conducted as part of the Northwest Power Planning Council Oral History Project, which documented the history and purpose of the Northwest Power Planning Council, now known as the Northwest Power and Conservation Council. The interview was conducted in nine sessions.

In the first interview session, conducted on October 21, 1998, Paquet discusses his family background and early life in Portland, Oregon, including his education, his social life, and his early jobs. He talks about his experiences at the University of Santa Clara in California, including his involvement in the student political movements of the 1960s. He talks about working for NASA after graduating; hiking the Pacific Crest Trail with his brother in 1971; and his experiences as a graduate student studying biology at Portland State University. He also discusses supporting his family by running a leather dressing business.

In the second interview session, conducted on December 15, 1998, Paquet discusses developments in environmental legislation and electricity production in Oregon during the 1970s. He talks about anti-nuclear activist Lloyd Marbet; shares his opinion regarding nuclear power; and speaks at length about working for the Oregon Department of Energy on the Energy Facility Siting Council in the late 1970s and early 1980s. He talks about renewable energy resources, and about working with the Bonneville Power Administration. A portion of this session, Tape 3, is missing.

In the third interview session, conducted on December 23, 1998, Paquet discusses his work with the Northwest Power Planning Council to create a fish and wildlife plan in the early 1980s. He talks about navigating the conflicting interests of power companies, state agencies, Native American tribes, and sport fishers and game hunters. He talks about the life cycle of fish native to the Columbia River, describes how those cycles are disrupted by the dams, and talks about efforts to mitigate these disruptions. He speaks about the reception and implementation of the NWPPC fish and wildlife plan. He also talks about the people he worked with on the plan.

In the fourth interview session, conducted on August 12, 1999, Paquet continues to discuss his work with the Northwest Power Planning Council to create a fish and wildlife plan in the early 1980s. He continues to talk about the life cycle of fish native to the river, describes how those cycles are disrupted by the dams, and talks about efforts to mitigate these disruptions. He continues to speak about the reception and implementation of the NWPPC fish and wildlife plan. He talks about changes to the plan after implementation.

In the fifth interview session, conducted on August 25, 1999, Paquet continues to discuss his work to create a fish and wildlife plan in the early 1980s. He continues to talk about changes to the plan after implementation. He discusses court cases regarding the plan. He talks about other members of the NWPPC, particularly Kai Lee, and describes their contributions to the council. He speaks about fish populations and inter-state politics leading up the 1987 amendment cycle for the fish and wildlife plan.

In the sixth interview session, conducted on September 15, 1999, Paquet continues to discuss fish populations and inter-state politics leading up the 1987 amendment cycle for the fish and wildlife plan. He discusses the changes made to the plan in 1987, the changes in the NWPPC's goals, and the implementation of the new plan. He talks about tracking fish, about mapping waterway systems, and about the organizational structure of the NWPPC. He then discusses the additional focus on the wildlife portion of the plan in 1991, and talks about the need to preserve habitat.

In the seventh interview session, conducted on September 16, 1999, Paquet continues to discuss the wildlife portion of the fish and wildlife plan. He speaks about the 1991 amendment cycle for the plan, including concerns that salmon could be added to the endangered species list, the contributions of Senator Mark Hatfield, and the development of new energy and fish forecasting models. He discusses the work of the National Marine Fisheries Service in Oregon, the philosophy behind watershed-based planning, and conflicting interests among the Pacific Northwest states in the 1990s.

In the eighth interview session, conducted on April 12, 2000, Paquet speaks at length about the political changes in the Pacific Northwest states in the mid-1990s and how that affected the work of the NWPPC. He speaks about the new council members, about changes in economic factors around power utilities, and about changes in the council's policies. He also talks about working with a reduced budget in the late 1990s. He talks about the results of an independent science review of the NWPPC's fish and wildlife plan, and discusses plans for the next amendment cycle in 2001.

In the ninth and final interview session, conducted on April 18, 2000, Paquet discusses Senator Slade Gorton's role in the NWPPC plan's 2001 amendment cycle. He speaks at length about members of the council, their roles, their contributions, and their personalities. He compares the council's efforts to restore salmon populations and habitats to other restoration efforts in the U.S. He also discusses the possible removal of dams on the Snake River. He talks about the status of salmon populations at the time of the interview in 2000, and about international interest in the work of the council, particularly in Eastern Europe. He closes the interview by reflecting on his career and family life since joining the council in 1980.

Paquet, Peter J., 1945-

Oral history interview with Ed W. Sheets

This oral history interview with Ed W. Sheets was conducted by Michael O'Rourke at the Oregon Historical Society in Portland, Oregon, from November 10, 1998, to September 28, 2000. The interview was conducted as part of the Northwest Power Planning Council Oral History Project, which documented the history and purpose of the Northwest Power Planning Council, now known as the Northwest Power and Conservation Council. The interview was conducted in eight sessions.

In the first interview session, conducted on November 10, 1998, Sheets discusses his family background and early life in Spokane, Washington, and in Portland, Oregon, including his education and his early political beliefs. He talks about his experiences studying political science at Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island, including his involvement with the college radio station, and an internship with the Rhode Island state legislature. He also talks about his opposition to the Vietnam War. He shares his experiences as a graduate student at the University of Washington school of communications, including producing a series of programs on the environment for local television stations.

In the second interview session, conducted on November 15, 1998, Sheets continues to discuss programs on the environment that he produced while at UW. He talks about his marriage to Ronda Skubi. He talks about working as a special assistant to U.S. Senator Warren Magnuson from 1977 to 1981, and speaks at length about Magnuson's political career, and about some of the energy and environmental issues he worked on for the senator.

In the third interview session, conducted on November 25, 1998, Sheets continues to discuss his work as special assistant to U.S. Senator Warren Magnuson, and speaks at length about the passage of the Northwest Power Act of 1980. He speaks about the history of public and private power utilities in the Pacific Northwest leading up to the passage of the act, particularly the Bonneville Power Administration and the Washington Public Power Supply System; and describes how the Northwest Power Act led to the creation of the Northwest Power Planning Council. He talks about other members of Magnuson's staff, and about Magnuson's unsuccessful 1980 re-election campaign.

In the fourth interview session, conducted on January 22, 1999, Sheets discusses serving as director of the Washington State Energy Office during Governor John Spellman's administration in 1981, particularly focusing on working with the Washington State Legislature to create the NWPPC. He talks about serving as the first executive director of the NWPPC, about the first members of the NWPPC, and about the first NWPPC meetings.

In the fifth interview session, conducted on June 15, 1999, Sheets continues to talk about serving as the first executive director of the NWPPC, about the first members of the NWPPC, and about the first NWPPC meetings. He discusses the first plans and recommendations produced by the council regarding salmon population loss mitigation at hydro-electric dams, power production, and energy conservation. He talks about the council's relationship with the BPA and other electric utilities in the Pacific Northwest, about its relationship with federal agencies, and about its relationship with the public. He speaks about opposition to the council's recommendations, including lawsuits.

In the sixth interview session, conducted on June 24, 1999, Sheets continues to talk about serving as the first executive director of the NWPPC. He speaks further about opposition to the council's plans, particularly from the BPA, and about the council's relationship with federal agencies and with local Native American tribes. He discusses the NWPPC fish and wildlife plan, which aimed to conserve salmon populations, and talks about the plan's implementation. He speaks about the conflicting interests among the Northwest states during the plan's amendment processes in the 1980s and 1990s.

In the seventh interview session, conducted on November 8, 1999, Sheets continues to talk about serving as the first executive director of the NWPPC. He briefly talks about changes in the council's membership during the 1980s and 1990s. He speaks about the NWPPC energy conservation plan, and about the plan's implementation. He talks about changes to the NWPCC's fish and wildlife plan during the 1990s.

In the eighth and final interview session, conducted on September 28, 2000, Sheets continues to talk about serving as the first executive director of the NWPPC. He speaks further about the changes to the NWPPC's fish and wildlife plan during the 1990s. He talks about political changes in some Northwest states during the 1990s and about how that affected the council and its plans; speaks about leaving the council in 1995; and discusses the actions of the council since his departure. He talks about the life cycle of salmon and about the importance of restoring salmon habitats. He discusses his activities since leaving the council, particularly his work as a consultant for Native tribes. He closes the interview by talking about deregulation of electric utilities and power rates.

Sheets, Ed W. (Edward Wendell), 1949-

Oral history interview with Tom L. Eckman

This oral history interview with Tom L. Eckman was conducted by Michael O'Rourke at the Northwest Power Planning Council offices in Portland, Oregon, from September 16, 1998, to September 29, 2000. The interview was conducted as part of the Northwest Power Planning Council Oral History Project, which documented the history and purpose of the Northwest Power Planning Council, now known as the Northwest Power and Conservation Council. The interview was conducted in five sessions.

In the first interview session, conducted on September 16, 1998, Eckman discusses his family background and early life on a farm in Galesburg, Illinois, including his education. He briefly talks about studying forestry and environmental science at Southern Illinois University, about working as an environmental science educator in Washington, and about serving as chair of both the Washington Environmental Council and the Washington Chapter of the Sierra Club. He speaks at length about the passage of the 1980 Northwest Power Act, and about the Washington Public Power Supply System. He talks about working with Ed Sheets, the U.S. senators from Washington, and with administrators from Bonneville Power Administration during and after the passage of the Northwest Power Act. He discusses serving as manager of conservation resources for the Northwest Power Planning Council, now known as the Northwest Power and Conservation Council, from 1982 to the time of the interview.

In the second interview session, conducted on December 17, 1998, Eckman continues to speak about the passage of the 1980 Northwest Power Act, and about the Washington Public Power Supply System. He continues to discuss serving as manager of conservation resources for the Northwest Power Planning Council, and talks about the early activities of the council. He discusses the NWPPC's 1983 conservation and electric power plan, and talks about the first members of the council.

In the third interview session, conducted on September 21, 1999, Eckman continues to discuss serving as manager of conservation resources for the Northwest Power Planning Council, and to talk about the 1983 conservation and electric power plan. He speaks at length about developing and implementing the model conservation standards for residential and commercial buildings, about opposition to the energy efficient building codes, and about working with Northwest electric utilities on the Super Good Cents program.

In the fourth interview session, conducted on May 11, 2000, Eckman continues to discuss serving as manager of conservation resources for the Northwest Power Planning Council. He talks about the conservation and electric power plan amendment processes in the late 1980s and early 1990s. He speaks about factors affecting energy prices in the Northwest, particularly at the BPA, and discusses how changing state politics in the 1990s affected the NWPPC, particularly its fish and wildlife plan.

In the fifth and final interview session, conducted on September 29, 2000, Eckman continues to discuss serving as manager of conservation resources for the Northwest Power Planning Council, with a focus on the period between 1995 and the time of the interview. He talks about conducting a comprehensive review of the Northwest power systems and about developing the 1996 version of the conservation and electric power plan. He also speaks at length about the financial situation of the BPA, and about factors affecting its energy prices.

Eckman, Tom L. (Thomas Lester), 1949-

Oral history interview with Kai N. Lee

This oral history interview with Kai Lee was conducted by Michael O'Rourke at Williams College in Williamstown, Massachusetts, from May 26-27, 1999. The interview was conducted as part of the Northwest Power Planning Council Oral History Project, which documented the history and purpose of the Northwest Power Planning Council, now known as the Northwest Power and Conservation Council. The interview was conducted in two sessions. Access to the interview audio recording is restricted until 2042. An edited transcript is open for research.

In the first interview session, conducted on May 26, 1999, Lee discusses his family background and early life in New York, including his Chinese heritage. He talks about his college education, particularly at the University of California at Berkeley, and about his marriage. He speaks about teaching political science and environmental studies at the University of Washington from 1973 to 1990, describes his experiences during a 1977 White House fellowship, and discusses the development of his interest in energy issues. He talks about his involvement in the development of the Washington Public Power Supply System, and about how energy demand projections in the 1970s led to the passage of the 1980 Northwest Power Act. He then discusses representing Washington on the Northwest Power Planning Council from 1983 to 1987. He speaks about a paper he wrote about the failure of WPPSS nuclear power plants 4 and 5, "Path Along the Ridge"; about his efforts to represent all Washingtonians; and about his relationship with Native tribes in the region. He talks about other council members, particularly Dan Evans and Ed Sheets, and discusses opposition to the council's Model Home Standards. He speaks at length about his role in the development of the council's fish and wildlife plan, and reflects on the plan's successes and failures.

In the second interview session, conducted on May 27, 1999, Lee continues to discuss representing Washington on the Northwest Power Planning Council, and briefly reviews many of the topics discussed in session 1. He speaks further about the development of the council's fish and wildlife plan, and about other council members and staff. He also shares his thoughts about nuclear power. He talks about serving on the Board of Environmental Studies and Toxicology, describes taking a sabbatical in Kyoto, Japan, to write the book "Compass and Gyroscope," and shares his reasons for leaving the University of Washington to teach at Williams College. He closes the interview by reflecting on the accomplishments of the NWPPC.

Lee, Kai N.

Oral history interview with Angus Duncan

This oral history interview with Angus Duncan was conducted by Jim Strassmaier from July 15 to September 24, 1999. The interview was conducted as part of the Northwest Power Planning Council Oral History Project, which documented the history and purpose of the Northwest Power Planning Council, now known as the Northwest Power and Conservation Council. The interview was conducted in four sessions. The audio for part of the first session (Tape 2, Side 2) is affected by speed issues. The audio for a portion of the fourth session (most of Tape 9) is missing, but is reflected in an incomplete transcript.

In the first interview session, conducted on July 15, 1999, Duncan discusses his family background and early life in Medford, Oregon, including the legislative career of his father, Robert Duncan; his education; and studying government at Harvard University. He speaks about working as an aide for Portland Mayor Neil Goldschmidt from 1974 to 1979, and talks about transportation issues in Portland, particularly the Mount Hood Freeway. He talks about energy issues in the Pacific Northwest in the 1970s, about the history of public and private electric utilities in the region, and about his role in the passage of the 1980 Northwest Power Act. A portion of the audio for this session is affected by speed issues.

In the second interview session, conducted on July 22, 1999, Duncan continues to discuss his role in the passage of the 1980 Northwest Power Act. He speaks about working as an aide for Neil Goldschmidt in the U.S. Department of Transportation from 1979 to 1980. He discusses his career with various renewable energy companies during the 1980s, and shares his thoughts about alternative energy sources. He then talks about serving on the Northwest Power Planning Council from 1990 to 1995. He discusses his attempts to incorporate more renewable energy sources into the council's plans, describes concerns about salmon populations in the 1990s, and talks about his relationship with other council members.

In the third interview session, conducted on September 16, 1999, Duncan continues to discuss serving on the Northwest Power Planning Council from 1990 to 1995. He speaks about some of the projects he worked on regarding salmon conservation, the shutdown of the Trojan nuclear power plant, and water efficiency. He talks about working with other council members, with the Bonneville Power Administration, and with Native tribes. He discusses the 1994 amendment cycle for the NWPPC fish and wildlife plan, and talks about the plan's reception, opposition, and implementation.

In the fourth and final interview session, conducted on September 24, 1999, Duncan continues to discuss serving on the Northwest Power Planning Council from 1990 to 1995. He revisits the topic of the shutdown of the Trojan nuclear power plant, and talks about his working relationship with the NWPPC council members and staff. He discusses the controversies surrounding the 1995 departure of Ed Sheets from the council; talks about working with federal agencies, particularly the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers; and shares his thoughts about the future of power generation on the Columbia River. He closes the interview by reflecting on his career in the public and private sectors. The audio for a portion of this session is missing, but is reflected in an incomplete transcript.

Duncan, Angus (Robert Angus), 1946-

Oral history interview with Chuck T. Collins

This oral history interview with Chuck T. Collins was conducted by Michael O'Rourke at Collins' home on Mercer Island, Washington, on October 19, 1999. The interview was conducted as part of the Northwest Power Planning Council Oral History Project, which documented the history and purpose of the Northwest Power Planning Council, now known as the Northwest Power and Conservation Council.

In this interview, Collins discusses his family background and talks about his early life on a ranch in Missoula, Montana, and about his teenage years in Spokane, Washington. He talks about his experiences at Georgetown University in Washington, D.C., at Gonzaga University in Spokane, and at the University of Washington. He also talks about his marriage to Nancy Querna. He speaks at length about his service as a cavalry platoon leader in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. He also shares his thoughts about the unfairness of the draft system and about the morality of the war. He talks about working with John Spellman in King County government and about serving as director of King County Metro.

Collins speaks at length about representing Washington on the Northwest Power Planning Council, now known as the Northwest Power and Conservation Council, from 1981 to 1986. He talks about other members and staff of the council, about the mission and purpose of the council, and about the development of the council's first power and conservation plan. He discusses opposition to the council's Model Conservation Standards and shares his reasons for leaving the NWPPC. He also speaks at length about the bankruptcy of the Washington Public Power Supply System. He talks about the activities of the council after his departure, particularly the change in state politics in the 1990s and how that affected the work and membership of the NWPPC. He also discusses the council's efforts to increase salmon populations in the Columbia River. He discusses his activities since leaving the NWPPC, and talks about his children, their families, and their careers. He closes the interview by speaking further about other members of the council.

Collins, Chuck (Charles T.)

Oral history interview with Daniel J. Evans

This oral history interview with Daniel J. Evans was conducted by Michael O'Rourke in Seattle, Washington, from February 29 to March 1, 2000. The interview was conducted as part of the Northwest Power Planning Council Oral History Project, which documented the history and purpose of the Northwest Power Planning Council, now known as the Northwest Power and Conservation Council. The interview was conducted in two sessions. Session 2 begins partway through Tape 3, Side 1.

In the first interview session, conducted on February 29, 2000, Evans discusses his family background and early life in Seattle, Washington, including his involvement in the Boy Scouts, and his education. He talks about his service in the U.S. Navy during World War II and the Korean War, and about his marriage to Nancy Bell. He speaks about his service in the Washington State House of Representatives from 1957 to 1965. He talks about some of his fellow legislators, and about some of the legislation he worked on, particularly regarding electrical utilities. He discusses his 1964 campaign for Washington governor, and talks about serving as governor from 1965 to 1977. He speaks about energy issues in the state during the 1970s, particularly focusing on the Washington Public Power Supply System and attempts to create a Columbia Valley Authority. He also discusses serving as president for The Evergreen State College in Olympia.

In the second interview session, conducted on March 1, 2000, Evans discusses his role in passing several pieces of environmental protection legislation in Washington, and talks about the passage of the 1980 Northwest Power Act. He talks about representing Washington on the Northwest Power Planning Council from 1981 to 1983 and acting as its first chair. He describes the first council meeting, talks about the other first members and staff, and speaks at length about his work on the first fish and wildlife plan. He talks about working with Native American tribes on the fish plan, particularly with Tim Wapato of the Yakama. He then discusses his work on the first power and conservation plan, and talks about opposition to both plans. He briefly speaks about serving in the U.S. Senate from 1983 to 1989. He closes the interview by talking about the activities of the NWPPC since his departure.

Evans, Daniel J., 1925-

Oral history interview with Bob Saxvik

This oral history interview with Bob Saxvik was conducted by Michael O'Rourke at the Idaho State Historical Society in Boise, Idaho, on August 16, 2000. The interview was conducted as part of the Northwest Power Planning Council Oral History Project, which documented the history and purpose of the Northwest Power Planning Council, now known as the Northwest Power and Conservation Council.

In this interview, Saxvik discusses his family background and early life in Minnesota and Iowa, including his experiences during the Depression and his education. He talks about his service in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War, and about his marriage to Marilyn Anne DeMers. He speaks about his career in radio broadcasting at KBAR Radio in Burley, Idaho; discusses his service in the Idaho State Senate from 1971 to 1976; and talks about his role in the administration of Idaho Governor John V. Evans.

Saxvik discusses the passage of the 1980 Northwest Power Act, then speaks at length about representing Idaho on the Northwest Power Planning Council from 1981 to 1996. He talks about serving as vice chair of the council from 1981 to 1983, about the first meetings of the council, and about his work on the first energy and conservation plan. He discusses opposition to the council's Model Building Codes, talks about the first fish and wildlife plan, and speaks about energy forecasting. He talks about the effect Dan Evans' departure from the council in 1983 had on the organizational structure of the NWPPC. He discusses the development of the fish and wildlife plan over the 1980s and 1990s, and closes the interview by talking about how changing state politics in the 1990s affected the council's work, particularly the conflicts surrounding the council's 1994 fish and wildlife plan.

Saxvik, Bob (Robert William), 1930-2016

Oral history interview with Roy H. Hemmingway

This oral history interview with Roy H. Hemmingway was conducted by Michael O'Rourke at the Oregon Historical Society in Portland, Oregon, from August 29 to October 20, 2000. The interview was conducted as part of the Northwest Power Planning Council Oral History Project, which documented the history and purpose of the Northwest Power Planning Council, now known as the Northwest Power and Conservation Council. The interview was conducted in four sessions.

In the first interview session, conducted on August 29, 2000, Hemmingway discusses his family background and early life in Illinois, including his education and his early political beliefs. He shares his experiences studying international politics at Stanford University and studying environmental law at Yale University, and talks about his international travels in the 1960s. He discusses his reasons for specializing in environmental law; landmark environmental legislation in the 1960s and 1970s; and his involvement with the Oregon Environmental Council. He speaks about working as a lawyer for the Oregon Public Utility Commission, including researching a case against the Bonneville Power Administration and lobbying the Oregon Legislature on energy legislation.

In the second interview session, conducted on September 29, 2000, Hemmingway continues to discuss working for the Oregon Public Utility Commission, and talks about his conflict with PUC chair John J. Lobdell. He speaks at length about the drafting of the 1980 Northwest Power Act, and talks about the people and organizations that were involved. He then talks about representing Oregon on the Northwest Power Planning Council from 1981 to 1986. He describes the organization of the council, talks about the development of the first energy conservation plan and fish and wildlife plan, and speaks about the financial difficulties of the Washington Public Power Supply System (WPPSS).

In the third interview session, conducted on October 6, 2000, Hemmingway continues to discuss representing Oregon on the Northwest Power Planning Council from 1981 to 1986. He talks about opposition to the council's first plans, particularly the lawsuit against the model building codes, and discusses his reasons for leaving the council in 1986. He speaks about his fellow council members, about interstate conflicts that affected the council's work in the 1980s, and about the financial difficulties of WPPSS. He also talks about the development of the first NWPPC fish plan and discusses proposals to remove dams on the Snake River.

In the fourth and final interview session, conducted on October 20, 2000, Hemmingway speaks further about some of the NWPPC members, including those who served after he left the council. He shares his thoughts about the 1994 fish and wildlife plan, which he reviewed while working as a policy advisor for Oregon Governor John Kitzhaber; talks about the management of the Bonneville Power Administration, including his candidacy for administrator in the late 1990s; and discusses deregulation of electric utilities. He closes the interview by speaking about his career as an energy consultant, including his work with Portland General Electric, and about his role in Kitzhaber's administration from 1995 to the time of the interview.

Hemmingway, Roy H. (Leroy H.), 1946-

Oral history interview with Jim W. Litchfield

This oral history interview with Jim W. Litchfield was conducted by Michael O'Rourke at Litchfield's office in Portland, Oregon, from September 21-22, 2000. The interview was conducted as part of the Northwest Power Planning Council Oral History Project, which documented the history and purpose of the Northwest Power Planning Council, now known as the Northwest Power and Conservation Council. The interview was conducted in two sessions. Session 2 begins partway through Tape 3, Side 1.

In the first interview session, conducted on September 21, 2000, Litchfield discusses his family background and early life in Yakima, Washington, including his education at Yakima Valley College. He talks about his experience studying engineering at the University of Washington and at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, then speaks at length about his work as a consultant with Battelle in the 1970s, including his work on decommissioning the Hanford Nuclear Power Plant. He discusses his service as power planning director for the Northwest Power Planning Council from 1981 to 1992. He talks about his work on the first power and conservation plan; the people he worked with, particularly Dan Evans; and the early organizational structure of the council. He also talks about the council's relationship with the Bonneville Power Administration and other electric utilities, about the financial troubles of the Washington Public Power Supply System, and about the council's first fish and wildlife plan.

In the second interview session, conducted on September 22, 2000, Litchfield continues to discuss his service as power planning director for the NWPPC. He talks about the implementation of and opposition to the council's Model Conservation Standards, discusses how the power surplus of the 1980s affected the council's work, and shares his reasons for leaving the council in 1992. He also revisits the topic of the financial troubles of the Washington Public Power Supply System. He talks about his work as a consultant after leaving the council, particularly on the Snake River Recovery Team; about his observations of how the council's work was affected by the changing state politics of the 1990s; and about the controversy surrounding proposals to remove the Snake River dams. He closes the interview by discussing deregulation of electric utilities.

Litchfield, Jim W. (James William), 1948-

Oral history interview with Drew D. Pettus

This oral history interview with Drew Pettus was conducted by Michael O'Rourke on June 5, 2002. The interview was conducted as part of the Northwest Power Planning Council Oral History Project, which documented the history and purpose of the Northwest Power Planning Council, now known as the Northwest Power and Conservation Council.

In this interview, Pettus discusses his family background and early life in Southern California and Bellingham, Washington, including his education and early political ambitions. He talks about his experience at Western Washington University, his association with U.S. Representative Lloyd Meeds, and his experience at the University of California, Berkeley. He speaks briefly about practicing law in Bellingham from 1974 to 1976, after graduating from the Northwestern School of Law. He then talks about working on Meeds' staff as associate counsel on the House Rules Committee, and describes life in Washington, D.C. He discusses serving as chief of staff for U.S. Representative Al Swift, and speaks at length about his work on the 1980 Northwest Power Act. He talks about the inclusion of fish protection and renewable energy sources in the act, about some of the people who also worked on the act, and about opposition to the act. He also discusses the formation of the Northwest Power Planning Council and the council's accomplishments. He closes the interview by talking about his activities since returning to private legal practice in 1989.

Pettus, Drew D. (Drew Douglas), 1946-

Oral history interview with Al Wright

This oral history interview with Al Wright was conducted by Michael O'Rourke from April 15 to October 28, 2002. The interview was conducted as part of the Northwest Power Planning Council Oral History Project, which documented the history and purpose of the Northwest Power Planning Council, now known as the Northwest Power and Conservation Council. The interview was conducted in five sessions.

In the first interview session, conducted on April 15, 2002, Wright discusses his family background and early life in Cloverdale, California. He talks about his education at the University of California at Berkeley, and about his early career as an engineer with Los Angeles Water and Power. He speaks about serving on the Oregon Water Resources Board, conducting a wastewater study in Eugene, and serving on the Pacific Northwest River Basins Commission.

In the second interview session, conducted on May 23, 2002, Wright discusses the history of the Washington Public Power Supply System and its relationship to the 1980 Northwest Power Act. He speaks about the development of the Northwest Power Planning Council, including the leadership of Dan Evans, and lobbying state governors regarding appointments to the council. He talks about his work with the Pacific Northwest Utilities Conference Committee, and the PNUCC's involvement with the work of the power planning council, particularly the council's fish and wildlife plan. He also talks about some of the members of the council, and shares the perspectives of electrical utilities regarding the council's power and conservation plans.

In the third interview session, conducted on July 12, 2002, Wright speaks at length about the relationship between the NWPPC and the Bonneville Power Administration. He discusses his work on the fish and wildlife committee of PNUCC, and speaks at length about the fish and wildlife plan of the council, including the science behind the plan, its effectiveness, and its implementation. He talks about the effectiveness of salmon hatcheries on the Columbia River, and about outcomes for hatchery fish. He discusses the allocation of the BPA budget for fish and energy conservation. He talks about working with some of the members of the council, including Norma Paulus; discusses the interests of electrical utilities in Montana; and speaks about working with the Army Corps of Engineers.

In the fourth interview session, conducted on August 20, 2002, Wright continues to discuss the interests of electrical utilities in Montana and working with some of the members of the NWPPC. He also talks about the interests of electric utilities in Idaho. He describes the impact the addition of some salmon species to the endangered species list in 1989 had on the council.

In the fifth and final interview session, conducted on October 28, 2002, Wright continues to describe the impact the addition of some salmon species to the endangered species list in 1989 had on the council. He speaks about the conflicts surrounding the NWPPC's 1994 fish and wildlife plan, about the retirement of Ed Sheets, and about the turnover in council members and staff in the 1990s. He shares his reasons for leaving PNUCC after 1995, and talks about running a consulting business. He discusses the work of the NWPPC under the leadership of John Etchart, speaks at length about the deregulation of electric utilities that began in the 1990s, and closes the interview by sharing his opinion on public utilities.

Wright, Al (Albert E.), 1942-

Oral history interview with Randy W. Hardy

This oral history interview with Randy W. Hardy was conducted by Michael O'Rourke from June 11 to September 10, 2002. The interview was conducted as part of the Northwest Power Planning Council Oral History Project, which documented the history and purpose of the Northwest Power Planning Council, now known as the Northwest Power and Conservation Council. The interview was conducted in two sessions.

In the first interview session, conducted in Portland, Oregon, on June 11, 2002, Hardy discusses his family background and early life in a military family. He speaks at length about his career in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War, and shares his opinion about the war. He talks about his graduate studies in public affairs at the University of Washington, about his marriage to Jane Van Leuven, and about his reasons for leaving the Navy. He discusses his work with the Federal Energy Administration in the late 1970s.

In the second interview session, conducted in Spokane, Washington, on September 10, 2002, Hardy continues to discuss his work with the Federal Energy Administration in the late 1970s, and talks about the passage of the 1980 Northwest Power Act. He speaks at length about the development and failure of the Washington Public Power Supply System, talks about the management of the Bonneville Power Administration in the 1980s, and about the relationship between the Northwest Power Planning Council and the BPA. He then speaks at length about his work as executive director of the Pacific Northwest Utilities Conference Committee. He also talks about serving as superintendent of Seattle City Light, shares his thoughts about the NWPPC's model conservation standards, and speaks at length about his service as CEO of the BPA in the 1990s. He also discusses the effects of the deregulation of electric utilities, talks about how changing state politics in the 1990s affected the work of the NWPPC, and speculates about the future of energy utilities in the Pacific Northwest. He closes the interview by talking about his activities since leaving the BPA in 1997.

Hardy, Randall W.

Oral history interview with Tim Wapato

This oral history interview with Tim Wapato was conducted by Michael O'Rourke in Portland, Oregon, from August 4 to November 16, 2002. The interview was conducted as part of the Northwest Power Planning Council Oral History Project, which documented the history and purpose of the Northwest Power Planning Council, now known as the Northwest Power and Conservation Council. The interview was conducted in three sessions. Session 2 begins partway through Tape 2, Side 1.

In the first interview session, conducted on August 4, 2002, Wapato discusses his family background and early life in the Methow Valley, Washington, including his father's work as an Evangelical minister and his high school experiences. He briefly talks about his college experiences, about working as a smokejumper, and about his U.S. Army service. He then speaks about his 21-year career in the Los Angeles Police Department. He talks about serving as a commissioner on the Columbia River Inter-Tribal Fish Commission from 1979 to 1980, and discusses setting up a fishery enforcement unit, and case law regarding Native American fishing rights.

In the second interview session, conducted on August 5, 2002, Wapato discusses his service as executive director of the Columbia River Inter-Tribal Fish Commission from 1980 to 1989. He talks about working with the directors of the Oregon and Washington fishery departments, discusses working with the Northwest Power Planning Council on the fish and wildlife plan and on developing the water budget, and speaks at length about his work negotiating the U.S.-Canada Pacific Salmon Treaty. He also talks about lobbying Congress to include fishery protections in the 1980 Northwest Power Act.

In the third and final interview session, conducted on November 16, 2002, Wapato speaks further about lobbying Congress to include fishery protections in the 1980 Northwest Power Act. He then continues to discuss serving as executive director of the Columbia River Inter-Tribal Fish Commission, and to talk about working with the NWPPC. He speaks at length about his working relationship with several NWPPC members, particularly Dan Evans and Kai Lee. He also talks about working with the Bonneville Power Administration, about the commission's lawyer, John Platt, and about his reasons for leaving the commission. He closes the interview by briefly discussing his service as commissioner for the Administration for Native Americans and as director of the Indian Gaming Association.

Wapato, Tim, 1935-2009

Oral history interview with Peter T. Johnson

This oral history interview with Peter Johnson was conducted by Michael O'Rourke at the Bonneville Power Administration's offices, and at the Oregon Historical Society, in Portland, Oregon, and at Johnson's home in McCall, Idaho, from March 1 to September 9, 2002. The interview was conducted as part of the Northwest Power Planning Council Oral History Project, which documented the history and purpose of the Northwest Power Planning Council, now known as the Northwest Power and Conservation Council. The interview was conducted in three sessions. The first session was originally recorded on Tapes 1 and 2; Tape 2 is missing, but its content is included in an incomplete transcript.

In the first interview session, conducted at the Bonneville Power Administration (BPA) offices in Portland on March 1, 2002, Johnson discusses his family background and early life in Boise, Idaho, including his education and his recreational activities. He briefly talks about his experiences at Dartmouth College, about his marriage to Carolyn Ann Carley, and about his service in the U.S. Air Force. He speaks about his career in construction, first with the MacGregor Triangle Company from 1957 to 1968, and with the Trus Joist Company from 1968 to 1979. He describes some of the construction jobs he worked on, including for the Bonneville Power Administration and for the University of Idaho. He shares his reasons for seeking a job in government. He also discusses his involvement in the Republican Party and serving on the transition team for President Ronald Reagan.

In the second interview session, conducted at the Oregon Historical Society in Portland on May 6, 2002, Johnson discusses his service as administrator of the BPA. He talks about the people he worked with at the BPA, and speaks at length about his handling of the failure of the Washington Public Power Supply System's plan to build nuclear power plants. He talks about his early days as BPA administrator, particularly about developing a mission statement and a strategic plan, and about stabilizing BPA's finances. He then discusses working with the Northwest Power Planning Council and focuses on his working relationship with NWPPC chair Dan Evans.

In the third and final interview session, conducted at Johnson's home in McCall, Idaho, on September 9, 2002, Johnson speaks further about the failure of the WPPSS nuclear power plants. He then speaks further about working with the NWPPC; discusses working with individual council members, particularly Dan Evans, Kai Lee, and Bob Saxvik; and talks about BPA lawyer Mike Katz. He talks about his relationship with members of Congress from the Pacific Northwest, particularly Mark Hatfield and James McClure. He also talks about his successor at BPA, Randy Hardy, as well as his predecessor, Sterling Monroe; about members of his staff; and about his relationship with the CEOs of other electric utilities, particularly Don Frisbee of PacifiCorp. He also talks about the construction of additional powerhouses at the Bonneville Dam. He shares his reasons for leaving the BPA in 1986, talks about his retirement activities, and discusses his service on various governmental committees regarding nuclear power. He closes the interview by talking about the work of the NWPPC after his retirement, particularly the political conflicts that arose around the council in the 1990s, and about deregulation of electric utilities.

Johnson, Peter, 1932-

Rural Telephone Operators Oral History Series

  • Rural Telephone Operators Oral History Series
  • Collection

A series of oral history interviews and an essay by Anne Cummins. She interviewed individuals who worked as telephone operators in rural areas in the early part of the 20th century.

Oral history interview with Helen G. Rees

This oral history interview with Helen G. Rees was conducted by Anne Cummins at Rees' home in Fairview, Oregon, on December 13, 1995. The interview was conducted as part of the Rural Telephone Operators Oral History Series, which was a series of interviews about telephone operators in rural areas in the early 20th century, conducted by Anne Cummins in the early 1990s.

In this interview, Rees discusses her family background and early life in Sherman County. She also talks about the family background of William A. Rees and his early life in Shaniko. Rees then discusses her life in Shaniko after her marriage to William A. Rees. She speaks at length about the telephone system in Shaniko in the 1930s and early 1940s, describing how the system worked and the equipment used, and she talks about some of the telephone operators. She closes the interview by talking about the different ways the operators served the community beyond the job of answering and directing phone calls.

Rees, Helen Guyton, 1910-

Oral history interview with Wendell H. Harmon and Florence E. Harmon

  • SR 1
  • Collection
  • 1983-03-16

This oral history interview with Wendell H. Harmon and Florence E. Harmon was conducted by Elizabeth Buehler at the Harmon home in Beavercreek, Oregon, on March 16, 1983. In this interview, the Harmons discuss their experience of graduating from Iowa State College, now Iowa State University, in the midst of the Depression with no job prospects in Iowa. Wendell H. Harmon describes choosing to leave Iowa for a homestead near Elk City, Oregon, in 1933. He talks about farming the land on the homestead, and Florence E. Harmon talks about their neighbors. She also talks about her experience being fired from her teaching job as a result of her marriage to Wendell H. Harmon. They discuss their experience setting up their homestead, including building and furnishing a house, preparing the land, and raising livestock. They talk about maintaining the homestead after Wendell H. Harmon accepted a forestry job in 1935 that involved work primarily outside Oregon, and about the process of acquiring the deed to the land. They close the interview by discussing tree farming, as well as the sale of their homestead.

Harmon, Wendell H. (Wendell Harold), 1910-1999

Oral history interview with Gerry Frank

  • SR 1002
  • Collection
  • 1991-07-16 - 1992-04-29

This oral history interview with Gerry Frank was conducted by Jim Strassmaier in Frank's office in Salem, Oregon, from July 16, 1991, to April 29, 1992. The interview was conducted in four sessions.

In the first interview session, conducted on July 16, 1991, Frank discusses his family background and how it intertwines with the history of the Meier & Frank Company. He talks about the company's founding in 1857 by his great-grandfather, Aaron Meier, and the growth of the store during the 19th century, including the store's Friday Surprise marketing strategy and the buildings the store inhabited. He then talks about the history of Meier & Frank during the early 20th century, including his uncle Julius Meier's term as Oregon governor from 1931 to 1935, competition with other department stores in Portland, and Meier & Frank's newspaper advertisements. He also talks about the life of his father, Aaron Meier Frank.

In the second interview session, conducted on November 6, 1991, Frank continues discussing the life of his father, Aaron Meier Frank, including his management of the Meier & Frank Department Store beginning in 1937. He also continues discussing Meier & Frank's newspaper advertisements. He talks about the use of credit lines in the department store, particularly during the Depression. He discusses the Meier & Frank board of directors, and begins talking about the expansion of the store into Salem.

In the third interview session, conducted on December 21, 1991, Frank continues discussing the expansion of the Meier & Frank Department Store into Salem. He talks about managing the Salem branch from 1955 to 1965, including tailoring merchandise to the Salem community, his involvement in Salem community organizations, and his relationship with his employees. He also talks about the store's seasonal events and his relationship with other Meier & Frank store managers.

In the fourth and final interview session, conducted on April 29, 1992, Frank discusses the conditions that led to the sale of the Meier & Frank Department Store to the May Company in 1965. He describes the family divisions surrounding the sale. He then talks about resigning as manager of the Salem branch and the effect of the sale on the store's personnel and customer base. He closes the interview by talking about his relationship with the management of the Meier & Frank Department Store at the time of the interview in 1992.

Frank, Gerry

Oral history interview with Elise F. Wendel

  • SR 1004
  • Collection
  • 1985-01-30 - 1985-02-27

This oral history interview with Elise F. Wendel was conducted by Rick Harmon in Portland, Oregon, from January 30 to February 27, 1985. The interview was conducted in five sessions.

In the first interview session, conducted on January 30, 1985, Wendel discusses her family background and early life in Southwest Portland, in the area that later became the Park Blocks. She talks about the people in her neighborhood and how the neighborhood changed during the time she lived there. She describes her childhood home at length. She talks about her experience growing up as a Jewish person in Portland, her recreational activities, and a family trip to Europe just before the outbreak of World War I. She also briefly shares her memories of civilian life during World War I and of the 1918 flu epidemic. She discusses her education, including attending Catlin Gabel School and studying in Paris, France.

In the second interview session, conducted on February 6, 1985, Wendel continues discussing her education, including attending Catlin Gabel School and studying in Paris, France, and attending a finishing school in New York. She talks about her father, I.N. Fleischner, and his department store, Fleischner, Mayer & Co. She then talks about her experiences at Wellesley College. She speaks about her marriage to Harold Fox Wendel and talks about his early life.

In the third interview session, conducted on February 13, 1985, Wendel continues discussing her marriage to Harold F. Wendel and his early life. She talks about Harold F. Wendel's career as president of the Lipman & Wolfe department store, including competition with Meier & Frank, changes he made to the business, and his management of his employees. She compares the managerial styles of I.N. Fleischner and Harold F. Wendel; talks about how the Depression affected Lipman & Wolfe; and discusses Harold F. Wendel's involvement with the Oregon State Sanitary Authority and other civic organizations.

In the fourth interview session, conducted on February 20, 1985, Wendel continues discussing her marriage to Harold F. Wendel, including the house they lived in and raising a family. She talks about her involvement with the Council of Jewish Women, the Temple Beth Israel Sisterhood, and the League of Women Voters. She also briefly discusses her involvement in civil defense activities during World War II. She speaks at length about her involvement with the Girl Scouts, including securing property for a summer camp.

In the fifth and final interview session, conducted on February 27, 1985, Wendel continues discussing her involvement with the Girl Scouts, discusses some of the events she helped organize for the group, and talks about some of the ways the organization has changed. She closes the interview by discussing her other volunteer activities.

Wendel, Elise F. (Elise Fleischner), 1905-1986

Oral history interview with Joel Redon

  • SR 1027
  • Collection
  • 1992-11-01 - 1994-02-18

This oral history interview with Joel Redon was conducted by Rick Harmon at Harmon's home and at the Oregon Historical Society in Portland, Oregon, from November 1, 1992, to February 18, 1994. The interview was conducted in two sessions.

In the first interview session, conducted on November 1, 1992, Redon discusses his family background and early life in Portland, Oregon, including his education and early interest in writing. He speaks about his sexual identity as a gay man and describes how he came to accept that label. He talks about running away from home and dropping out of high school at age 16, relocating to Seattle, Washington, and earning his GED. He talks about working as an interviewer for the Willamette Week newspaper in Portland and discusses some of the people he interviewed. He also briefly speaks about coming out and about changing his name from Bruce Randolph Didzun to Joel Redon in 1980. He speaks at length about his relationships with Paul Bowles, Allan Ginsburg, and Tennessee Williams. He talks about returning to Oregon and his relationship with a man he identifies as Jeffrey, and he describes the Portland gay social scene in the 1980s. He speaks about the end of the gay lifestyle in Portland at the end of the 1980s and the causes of its destruction; talks about the evolution of gay rights advocacy groups; and talks about the effect of AIDS on the gay community. He speaks at length about living with his own AIDS diagnosis, as well as his opposition to AZT (azidothymidine) treatments. He also discusses writing his semi-autobiographical novel "Bloodstream" and talks about the differences between himself and the novel's protagonist, Peter, and discusses writing his other novels.

In the second interview session, conducted on February 18, 1994, Redon discusses the book "A Voice Through a Cloud," by Denton Welch. He speaks about the AIDS epidemic and its toll on the gay community. He talks about the novel he was working on at the time of the interview in 1994 and describes some of the people he was writing about. He discusses events between the time of the first interview session in 1992 and this session in 1994, particularly regarding his unpublished writing and his mental and physical health. He then talks about his experiences and the writing process for "The Road to Zena" and "If Not on Earth, Then in Heaven." He discusses other authors living with AIDS and some of their works; reflects on his feelings and experiences upon being diagnosed with AIDS in 1986; and describes his current support system. He speaks at length about living with AIDS. He closes the interview by talking about seeing a therapist, about his plans to donate his papers to the Oregon Historical Society after his death, and about his unpublished journal.

Redon, Joel

Oral history interview with Raymond W. Nyls

  • SR 1031
  • Collection
  • 1992-04-04 - 1992-09-12

This oral history interview with Raymond W. Nyls was conducted by Kathleen A. Mitchell in Salem, Philomath, and Portland, Oregon, from April 4 to September 12, 1992. The interview was conducted in six sessions.

In the first interview session, conducted in Salem, Oregon, on April 4, 1992, Nyls discusses his family background and early life in Portland, Wauna, Warrenton, and Astoria, including learning to swim, the divorce of his parents, and his memories of the amusement park at Jantzen Beach. He also talks about family trips by train. He speaks at length about his childhood recreational activities, games, and hobbies. He also talks about his relationship with his step-father. He discusses his interest in military history and geology.

In the second interview session, conducted at the Benton County Historical Museum in Philomath, Oregon, on April 25, 1992, Nyls continues discussing his early life in Portland and Wauna, including his memories of the amusement park at Jantzen Beach, his social life during his teenage years, and his relationship with his step-father. He speaks about his step-father's work as a sawyer at sawmills in the company town of Wauna, describes the town, and discusses his education. He describes the houses he lived in, speaks about his recreational activities and childhood games, and discusses the Japanese American population in Wauna. He then looks at photographs of Wauna and talks about them, as well as a fire that burned down the town's school house.

In the third interview session, conducted at the Benton County Historical Museum in Philomath on May 30, 1992, Nyls continues discussing his early life in Wauna, including his social life. He describes the railroad service to Wauna. He again looks at photographs of Wauna and talks about them, as well as the fire that burned down the town's schoolhouse. He briefly discusses living in a small town near Westport during the Depression. He then talks about living in the sawmill company town of Warrenton, including his education, his involvement with sports, and fishing in the Skipanon River. He also talks about his social life in Warrenton. He discusses living in Astoria, particularly his experience during high school, including dating, playing in a band, and his experience in the National Guard. He also briefly describes a photograph of his family picking hops during the Depression. He speaks about roller skating, dancing, and drinking alcohol.

In the fourth interview session, conducted in Philomath on June 20, 1992, Nyls discusses living in Portland and working for the Forest Service through the National Youth Association. He then talks about working for Boeing in Seattle, Washington, in the years before World War II and about joining the Army Air Corps. He speaks about morale at Boeing after the bombing of Pearl Harbor and describes his feelings about the U.S. government's incarceration of Japanese Americans. He describes his Army Air Corps training at length, including both boot camp and flight training. He also talks about his marriage to Lucile Tinker.

In the fifth interview session, conducted at the Oregon Historical Society in Portland on July 26, 1992, Nyls looks at photographs dating from the Korean War, describes them, and speaks at length about his experiences as an engineering officer and fighter pilot during that war. He also shares his thoughts about friendly fire and the United States military. He discusses training other fighter pilots and speaks at length about training to become an engineering officer at the end of World War II. He also talks about his marriage to Peggy Garver and the death of his mother. He discusses the differences in the way the Air Force fought during World War II and in the Korean War and speaks about his career in the Air Force after the war's end.

In the sixth and final interview session, conducted in Philomath on September 12, 1992, Nyls looks at photographs from his career in the Air Force after the Korean War and describes them. He talks about serving as a squadron commander, describes serving on an Air Force base in Alaska during the Cold War, and shares his experiences serving at Camp Adair during the 1962 Columbus Day Storm. He talks about his reasons for settling in Eugene after retiring from the Air Force and reflects on his career, revisiting the topics of his service during World War II and the Korean War. He also describes more photographs. He discusses his children, their families, and their careers; shares his opinion about the Gulf War; and speaks at length about his hobbies, including his interest in history, geology, and astronomy. He closes the interview by talking about his work as a UFO investigator while in the Air Force.

Nyls, Raymond W. (Raymond Woodrow), 1920-2019

Oral history interview with Rudolph Luscher

  • SR 1038
  • Collection
  • 1984-08-16

This oral history interview with Rudolph Luscher was conducted by Susan G. Tissot at Luscher's home in West Linn, Oregon, on August 16, 1984. Bill Tegart and another unidentified person were also present and often contributed to the interview. At the time of the interview, Tissot's name was Susan Gaughan.

In this interview, Luscher discusses his family background and early life in Fairview. He speaks at length about running a dairy farm in Lake Oswego, including technology for milking cows, feeding his cattle, and changes in the dairy business over the 20th century. He briefly revisits the topic of his early life in Fairview, including his education. He then returns to talking about running a dairy farm in Lake Oswego, including the finances of dairying.

Luscher, Rudolph, 1901-1997

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