New Hillsboro motel proprietor experiences culture change
Staff reporter
Charles Yang is attempting the American dream — owning his own business.
Moving to Hillsboro just two short months ago from Los Angeles, Calif., Yang purchased the Hill Crest Motel at 808 E. D Street, Hillsboro.
He's been open for two weeks and is eager to serve the community and its visitors.
"It's been a culture shock for me," said Yang. "There's a big difference between Los Angeles and Hillsboro."
In the large city, some people lived in motels because housing was expensive, said Yang. Others shared housing and went to hotels and motels on the weekends to get away.
"There would be three couples living in a two-room apartment," said Yang.
The China native laid and sealed floors. He worked part-time in a hotel.
A friend told Yang about the motel in Hillsboro and he decided he wanted to give it a try.
Since his arrival, he has spent his time cleaning the 18 rooms and preparing the business for customers.
Rooms and carpets were cleaned and repairs made. Yang plans to make additional improvements when his business increases.
Coming to the U.S. 10 years ago, Yang was a translator for the mayor of McAllen, Texas. When the mayor was not re-elected, he moved to Los Angeles. Since that time, he has lived in Los Angeles and China.
