Find out why this event has – for decades – been much more than just a social event, for outer East Portland students and their families …

Music by the David Douglas String Quartet welcomes guests to the annual Father-Daughter Banquet.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Even though it was well after school hours, the David Douglas High School North Cafeteria was abuzz with activity throughout the evening on February 24, as the 2010 Father-Daughter Banquet got underway at 6:00 p.m.

Taking time from making sure all of the 252 guests were well-fed and entertained, event coordinator Heather Robinson stopped to talk with us about the event.

Heather Robinson, Chair of the 2010 David Douglas Father/Daughter Banquet, pauses for a moment with “Gina the Mime” (Wollrabe), a/k/a ChaCha the Clown.

“Welcome to our 54th edition of the Father-Daughter Banquet,” greeted Robinson. “Some people think this event is only for those involved with the high school. But, actually, it encompasses the entire David Douglas School District.”

This special night, featuring dining and entertainment, is produced each year by the District’s “Dad’s Club” – and has been, since even before the school district boundaries were firmly established. “The ‘Dad’s Club’ was started by school administrators within the School District. But, it’s been carried on by parents, alone, over the years. Even though we do have strong ties with the high school, we also draw from all of the schools in the District, as well.”

David Douglas High School Principal John Bier is served a plate of tasty food by student volunteers.

Gilbert Park Elementary School students Gwen and Maya Weeks, here with their dad, Ben Carlascio, say they’re having a great time at the event. “I got an invitation to the banquet, and I’m glad we decided to come,” Carlascio says.

The David Douglas Dad’s Club, Robinson noted, is comprised of parents, grandparents, students, and employees who volunteer their time to support activities within the School District.

“Our primary focus is to give money to students, teachers, and coaches who have specific school-related needs,” said Robinson. She added that in addition to the banquet, they also raise money with their July 4th fireworks stand on SE 122nd Avenue and Division Street, in front of Pizza Baron – as well as by recycling Christmas trees, and by providing barbecues for car shows and other special events.

The David Douglas Flag Team performs a dance number at this year’s banquet.

Fun is job number one
While the Dad’s Club has a serious purpose, the goal of the banquet is for attendees to have fun, Robinson explained. “We have all kinds of activities taking place to keep our guests entertained and having a good time – both on stage and off. The main reason we do this is to help build a sense of community. Even though the David Douglas District is huge, in many ways it’s like a close family. This event helps tie people together.”

Robinson was quick to point out that she doesn’t produce the event by herself. “We have 21 young people from the school volunteering, as well as members of the Dad’s Club. I especially thank the David Douglas High Activities Director, Kara Kauble. She really ‘lifts me up’, and I appreciate all she does both for the school and this event.”

The Father-Daughter Banquet was sold out again this year – and look at all the happy participants!

Members of the Dad’s Club are in the process of seeking more members willing to help out in the future, Robinson said. “We meet the first Wednesday of each month at 7:00 p.m. in the South Building Faculty Lunchroom. If you don’t have time to volunteer, please try to support our endeavors, so we can continue to provide for our community’s kids!”

For more information, contact David Douglas High’s activity director, Kara Kauble, at
(503) 262-4409.

© 2010 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Find out what Portland City Commissioner Nick Fish had to say about his current post, and the City’s budget and bicycles, when he spoke at the last Parkrose Business Association meeting …

The President of the Parkrose Business Association, Wayne Stoll of Century Associates, makes sure a flag is there when the group recites the Pledge of Allegiance at the start of each meeting.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
When members and guests of the Parkrose Business Association (PBA) met at the Quality Inn and Suites last month, they learned about the status of their annual event, were introduced to a new member, and heard Portland City Commissioner Nick Fish speak.

The Parkrose Cruise-in may be on hiatus this year, unless an event director steps forward – so learned the 45 men and women present at the February 18 meeting. PBA President Wayne Stoll reminded attendees that the event helps sustain the association, and has provided about $40,000 in funding for Parkrose High Senior Scholarships over the years.

Stoll also said the PBA is forming a Business Opportunity Committee. “A small committee is coming up with ideas developed by the Board and by committee members, to help promote Parkrose businesses.”

Portland City Commissioner Nick Fish addresses the Parkrose Business Association.

Commissioner Fish speaks
Beginning his talk, Portland City Commissioner Nick Fish thanked the group for asking him to attend the meeting. “Although she’s been in office for over a year, Commissioner Amanda Fritz is the newest member on the Council,” Fish quipped. “Until she joined us, I was the newest member; now, I’m the fourth most senior!”

Referring to his introduction, in which it was revealed that he resides in NE Portland, Fish noted he is the only member of the City Council living there. “Go back 10 years ago; three or four members of the Council were from my area. Now, we actually have two Council members who live in Southwest – Dan Saltzman and Amanda Fritz. The Mayor lives in North Portland.”

Fish said his 18-month term in office – having been elected to fill Erik Sten’s vacated seat – has been an exciting time for him. “I’ll be on the ballot in May, seeking a full term.”

Commends Parkrose Schools superintendent
Fish said he’d hoped to see Dr. Karen Fischer Gray at the meeting. “I saw her yesterday and the day before, downtown. She’s practically living in City Hall because she is working on projects to advance education in outer East Portland. I want to compliment what’s been happening at your high school.”

“The thing I’m on which working with Dr. Gray, as your Parks Commissioner, is soccer fields. I think it’s long overdue that Parkrose High School had soccer fields,” opined Fish. “We’re going to make it happen. And I hope you’ll have me back in the fall [to speak to the PBA] to make a special announcement. There’s someone, who’s been in the paper recently, who’s working to bring professional soccer to Portland. I think I can bring him [to that Fall meeting]; and I think he’ll be bringing a check with him.”

He is the first City Commissioner who has been both Commissioner of Housing and of Parks, Fish observed. “This kind of odd, because they go together so nicely; hand in glove. I think about housing issues, and I’m also thinking about proximity to green spaces, parks, and natural areas. We can do a better job integrating our housing – when we do that, it’s a win-win.”

He won’t balance the City’s budget by reducing certain Parks Bureau programs, Fish vows.

Speaks of City’s budget woes
“Last year, the City made 5% cuts in the Police, Fire, Parks, and Transportation budgets. Portland Parks took an effective cut of $1 million. People tell us, ‘Don’t cut programs, just thin the soup a little bit.’ This year will be worse; we’re beginning with a 4% cut, or $1.7 Million, for Parks.”

He’ll keep some programs intact, Fish said. “I’ve decided I won’t balance my [Parks Bureau] budget on the backs of children nor older adults. There will be no cuts in SUN, after-school, or Teen programs. And, the City provides all of the senior recreation programs – our median profile for people using the programs is 70 years old, female, single, and with low income. If we don’t keep those doors open, we isolate our elders – because they don’t have access to social and exercise programs, their quality of life diminishes, and their health decreases.”

Points out structural budget problem
Prior Council members funded essential services with “one-time money” because they didn’t have ongoing funding sources, Fish explained. “We have $17 million of one-time, ongoing budget needs. Homeless shelters and warming centers, for example, are funded through one-time only funds. If we make 4% cuts, we’ll have some programs ending.”

While charitable giving has increased, Fish went on, “We have a calamity in our city. Last night 1,600 people slept outside. An additional 5,000 are ‘hidden homeless’, sleeping on someone’s couch or in a car. And, the situation is getting worse.”

While balancing the budget, Fish says “priority items”, such as supporting public safety and small business programs, are critical to the success of the city.

Commissioner Fish asks for a “bonus term” in office as he runs to retain his Counsel seat this year.

“On a hopeful note,” Fish said as he wrapped up his formal talk, “while we face challenging times and tough issues at City Hall, you may wonder if we are doing what you expect of us. I assure you, we are doing our best. We don’t get media coverage for all the good we do, but there are good stories to be told. I hope to have a four-year ‘bonus term’ to continue my service to the city.”

Questions and Answers

Q Norm Stoll asked Fish to comment on Jessie Jackson’s visit to Portland to slam the police department.

A “It’s a free country; anyone can speaker here,” Fish said. “But what I ask is that what is said is constructive. As a parent, my heart goes out to the Campbell family. There are important lessons to be learned – fundamental problems with command, communications and training – as outlined by the Grand Jury’s letter. But I honor the people who protect us. Over the top rhetoric? Certainly. But I’m working with my collegues to see that this doesn’t happen again.”

Q Wayne Stoll asked, “In the city’s proposed Bicycle Transportation plan, is there any money to improve, or put in, sidewalks near schools and to businesses?”

A “Outer East Portland, and parts of Southwest Portland, have poor infrastructure; we have not made investments throughout the City. “The Mayor and Council have a new way presenting the City Budget: It will look at spending by ZIP Code. Both Commissioner Fritz and I ran on a ‘fair treatment’ platform.”

Regarding the Bicycle Plan [not yet passed or budgeted, at the time he spoke], Fish said, “We adopted a vision for a bicycle-friendly city that provides more options. It is not funded; and the Mayer says we don’t have a current funding resource. It won’t happen in the shrot term. [Since this time, the City Council has passed the Bike Plan – and voted to take as much as $20 Million from Water Bureau project “savings” to fund the plan.]

Q Alison Stoll asked, “Some Portland parks are gorgeous, but some pools and other facilities are scheduled to close. Will the bond measure you are proposing help out [in  that regard]?”

As Portland’s Parks Commissioner, Fish says he favors a parks levy to help maintain Portland’s parks.

A “We take it very seriously to maintain what we have,” Fish said. “Because of budget challenges, we have not done a great job of maintaining what we have; we have hundreds of millions in unmet needs. The scarce funding that the Parks Bureau has goes into the operational side.

“I may come back you this Fall and ask you to contribute a ‘movie ticket’ a month – that’s about $8 a month – to help maintain parks. We have $200 Million of capital needs we can address; and, an oversight panel will certify we haven’t wasted the money. If we do this, and create family-wage jobs to maintain our system, will you accept it?”

Meet the members on March 18
The PBA, one of our favorite business groups, next gets together on March 18 at 11:30 a.m. This month, their speaker is Justin Zeulmer, Director of Property Services at the Rose Garden Arena, talking about the Portland Trail Blazers.

By the way, this month’s meeting is at The Grotto, at NE 85th and Sandy Boulevard, in the Terrace Level meeting room. The meeting is free, and the buffet lunch is $17, including dessert and gratuity; reservations are NOT required. For more information, see their web site: CLICK HERE.

© 2010 ~ David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

It wasn’t Valentines Day – but find out why Adventist Medical Center was decked out in hearts, as they restarted an annual event from the past …

Hontz, a medical technologist, takes blood for a cholesterol screening of Kathi Hunter at the Adventist Medical Center’s “A Fair for the Heart” event.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Heart decorations were everywhere, including the pink balloons festooning the entrance of the Adventist Medical Center (AMC) Pavilion that houses the Northwest Heart Center.

“No, it’s not Valentine’s Day,” smiled organizer Sandi Dykes, RN and Fellow of the American Association of Pulmonary Rehabilitation, on February 7. “We call it ‘A Fair of the Heart’. We have a bit of history with this event. From 1992 to 2002, we held an event like this every year in various locations. We’re restarting it here, in the AMC Pavilion, home of our Northwest Heart Center.”

Fair organizer, Sandi Dykes, RN, brandishes a “goodie bag” filled with hearth-healthy products and information.

Their goal, Dykes said, is to help people become aware that heart disease is “The number one killer in the United States. Secondly, to help guests examine their personal risk factors: cholesterol, blood pressure. Third, we offer heart-healthy free screenings.”

The hospital’s marketing manager, Judy Leach, said people started lining up at 10 a.m. for the event that began at noon. “This was a greater response than we could have imagined,” Leach said afterward, adding that about 600 guests attended the event.

Pauline Miriam made a special effort to attend the fair; here, she’s having her blood pressure checked by Walla Walla College nursing student Emma Ryan.

In addition to exhibits relating to heart health, screenings, and a cooking demonstration, guests were able to attend lectures – such as the keynote talk presented by Dr. Katie Strelich, “Women and Heart Disease”.

While getting her blood pressure checked, Pauline Miriam told us she made a special effort to attend the fair. “We were in Seattle for the weekend; we left early just so I could come here for the screening. This is a wonderful service to the community they’re providing.”

To learn more about the hospital – and its Northwest Heart Center – CLICK HERE to visit their website.

Rebecca Cunningham, RDMS-VT, is performing a carotid ultrasound, to check for any plaque or blockages in the carotid artery of guest Carol Huff.

© 2010 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Just why the building lit up in a blaze seldom seen in Portland – while classes were in session – still remains a mystery at this venerated Portland school. But, see the steps they’re taking to preserve the undamaged parts of it …

On the morning of November 10, 2009, before the devastating fire broke out, kids were in class, learning to tell time, read, and write in this classroom at Marysville K-8 School.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
After interviewing at least 150 witnesses, and digging through a mountain of charred rubble looking for cause of the fire that shuttered Marysville K-8 School on November 10th, Portland Fire Bureau investigators remain mum about what started the disastrous fire while classes were in session.

> See our story about the Marysville School fire: CLICK HERE.

Over the last three months, winter weather hasn’t been kind to the exposed eastern end of the school.

Whether the school will be rebuilt or simply restored, the school will be reopened at the same location, Portland Public School officials say.

Shane Endicott, of Portland’s DeConstruction Services, says these classic wooden doors have only increased in value over the years.

And, when Marysville reopens, on its first school day – no schedule has yet been set – the building’s interior will have a look reminiscent of the original 1921 building.

“We have meticulously been taking out doors, molding, window frames, built ins, and other things, that were all installed in 1921,” explained Shane Endicott, the Executive Director and co-founder of Portland’s ReBuilding Center and DeConstruction Services.

Hallway floors covered with 1950s-era tile may have protected the pine flooring underneath.

Standing in the school’s gym, next to a stack of classroom doors still hung in their frames, Endicott pointed out the clear, vertical grain in the old-growth fir from which they were milled. “You couldn’t replace these for $2,000 today.”

Walking out into a part of the structure with only open sky above – its ceiling and roof burned away by the fire – Endicott tapped on undamaged wall studs. “We’ll salvage as much as this wood as we can,” he said.

“We are de-nailing it without damaging the wood,” Endicott pointed out. “Then, we’re wrapping the wood up and protecting it. In each classroom and hallway, we’re numbering and tagging each piece – they’ll all have a key number, and be indexed. This will help contractors figure out how they will reincorporate it when they rebuild it.”

All wall studs not charred or damaged in the fire will be removed, de-nailed, and stored for incorporation into the restored or rebuilt Marysville School.

His company has gained a lot of experience in deconstructing; Endicott said they’ve been in business since 1998. He reminded us that it was their company which deconstructed the old, rickety Westmoreland house bought by Shannon Quimby to replace with a new one – with almost everything from the old house recovered and incorporated in her new “REXProject (Reuse Everything eXperiment)” home. (CLICK HERE to read about it.)

“Portland Public Schools is being very thoughtful about this process, respecting the building’s history. This school means a lot to the community.”

Part demolition supervisor, part building archaeologist, Endicott told how he was personally affected by this project. “When I walked through doing my first assessment – and as I am here today – I got the feeling of how historically important this building is. I realize I realize that these doors were hung, those nails where hammered, that moulding was installed – in 1921. Every kid that’s gone to school here since 1921 has passed through, or walked by these doors.”

The stack of wall and window molding removed by DeConstruction Services, and here pointed out by Endicott, is growing, as the School District-ordered preservation project continues.

The trucks and loading equipment on-site, he pointed out, were there only to haul away the wood and building materials too burned or damaged to be reused.

“As a citizen of Portland – not just a contractor here – I can’t help but give the school and District’s commitment to sustainability a big ‘thumbs up’ – we’re reclaiming a bit of Southeast Portland’s history.”

© 2010 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

See what this expert on Portland’s budget says to keep an eye on, at the upcoming community budget meetings. This finance expert spills the beans, and shares how you – from the comfort of your own computer – can view this valuable information …

Andrew Scott, the Financial Planning Manager at the City of Portland’s Office of Management and Finance shows outer East Portland citizens how to “follow the money” – by familiarizing them with the City Budget document, and how to find and navigate its online tools.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Considering the importance of impending budget decisions that lie ahead for the Portland City Council, it was surprising that only a handful of outer East Portland folks took advantage of the “City of Portland Budget Training” seminar.

Andrew Scott, the Financial Planning Manager at the City of Portland’s Office of Management and Finance, showed attendees how to understand the Portland City Budget document. The class was sponsored by the East Portland Action Plan, and held at David Douglas High School on February 24.

In simple terms, Scott explained how the City takes in and spends money during its budget cycle. He also answered questions posed by the attendees.

Understanding the budget’s structure
Scott began outlining the difference between Portland’s General Fund and its Non-General Fund. He also discussed the difference between one-time and ongoing funding of programs.

While his explanations were clear and concise, we’ll not attempt to reproduce the whole class in this article. A good explanation is to be found, he said, on the City of Portland’s website: CLICK HERE to bring up that webpage.

Scott outlines the City of Portland budgeting process.

Portland’s budgeting process
The Portland City Council doesn’t simply rubber-stamp a budget document handed to them, Scott said. Instead, he outlined the budget process the Council goes through, which this time, runs from October of 2009 through May of 2010, and includes many forums and public meetings.

As part of his presentation, Scott showed those attending how to find information, such as on the budget process, on the Internet.

> To view the City of Portland’s 2010 “Budget Process” pamphlet (it’s a PDF document)  CLICK HERE.

Says information aids understanding
“It’s kind of a difficult year for the City and budgeting,” Scott told us after the seminar. “I think that a lot of the input from citizens at forums and hearings does get relayed back to the Portland City Council. It can influence the decisions that the Council ultimately makes on the budget. So, it’s important to understand the budget before one advocates for cutting or adding a program.”

Two of the most important areas of which citizens should be aware, Scott said, are what are called “cuts” and “adds”.

“The Portland City Counsel has already asked most Bureaus to make cuts of 4%; public safety has been asked to cut 2%,” Scott explained. “It’s important to know where those cuts will be made; they affect levels of service, going forward.”

“Adds” are new programs – those will also be under close scrutiny. “It’s important to be aware of all of the ‘add requests’ that have been coming in. This information will help people understand what needs various groups are asking to be addressed.”

Taking a look at the City’s “Community Budget” webpage – and reading some of the documents – will help prepare citizens for better advocating at Budget Forums, Scott says.

Online tools help prepare Budget Forum goers
Instead of showing up at a Portland Budget Forum unprepared, Scott advised citizens to avail themselves of the many resources available on the City’s Internet website. “It contains tables of ‘cuts’ and ‘adds’, and a wide variety of informative information.”

> To view Portland’s “Community Budget” homepage, CLICK HERE.

SE Portland Forum scheduled for March 3
At the March 3rd City of Portland Community Budget Forum – from 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. – you’ll have the opportunity to hear from, and give feedback to, officials from all of the City Bureaus. This forum takes place at Mt. Scott Community Center, SE 72nd Avenue and Harold Street.

And, in outer East Portland on March 6, another City of Portland Community Budget Forum will take place from 1:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the IRCO Community Space located at 10301 NE Glisan Street.

© 2010 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

With party hats, gifts – and, yes, birthday cakes – see why this local group hopes you’ll join them at their fun summertime event, supporting the American Cancer Society …

With their way lit by luminaria – candles inside decorated paper-bag lampshades,  each dedicated to a victim or survivor of cancer – “Relay for Life” participants circled the Floyd Light Middle School track at their 2009 event last August. East Portland News file photo

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
One of the most visually-striking, and emotionally-moving fundraising events each year – to benefit the American Cancer Society – is the annual “Relay for Life”.

> Read our story about last year’s event: CLICK HERE

“At the Relay for Life of East Portland,” said its Chair, Tamara Marmol, “People come and camp out, eat, have fun, and take turns walking the track. There are constant activities and food throughout the day, and live music at night.”

The purpose of the event, Marmol reminded, is to raise $100,000 for the American Cancer Society to help with their medical research programs.

Event Chair Tamara Marmol and volunteer Karla Signs welcome guests to the 2010 East Portland Relay for Life kickoff celebration.

‘Birthday Party’ kickoff event
An activity room at the East Portland Community Center was decorated as if for a birthday party – complete with a welcoming giant inflatable clown, streamers, balloons and party favors – on February 2.

“Our theme this year is ‘Celebrating Birthdays’,” Marmol explained. “And this is our Relay for Life kickoff for our 2010 event – held August 14 and 15 – again at Floyd Light Middle School’s track. We’re working to make it bigger and better than ever. Tonight our past teams, and people interested in forming a new team, are being introduced to the event.”

Rick Rankin, of Adventist Health Occupational Health Services, says he’s thankful to be celebrating the additional birthdays he’s enjoyed – thanks to help he received from the work of the American Cancer Society.

Cancer survivor serves as team captain
One smiling face at the “birthday party” was Rick Rankin, who captained the East Portland Chamber of Commerce Relay for Life team last year.

“I am a cancer survivor of seven years,” Rankin told us. “I was diagnosed with stage-four metastatic melanoma. I was given less than a 5% chance of surviving. The day I was diagnosed, I told them that I was going to be alright; that I was going to live to be a grandpa, and be around to enjoy it.”

Thanks to professionals at the American Cancer Society, Rankin said, he was selected for a clinical trial program to treat the cancer. “That’s why I’m still here. The 18-month program of chemotherapy was pretty intense. But, because of the American Cancer Society, and the grace of God, I’m still here. I now have two grandbabies; seven years later, I’m still here. This organization does wonderful things.”

You can participate
“We’re looking both for team captains and for cancer survivors,” Marmol said. “Put it on your calendar now: it’s from 10:00 a.m. on August 14 until 10:00 a.m. on August 15.”

All the information about this event can be found at their official website: CLICK HERE to open that webpage.

© 2010 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

In this, the third installment of our ongoing series, learn about the values that drive the City Commissioners to seek their positions, and about the City bureaus they oversee – in their own words …

Portland City Commissioner Dan Saltzman says his term as a Multnomah County Commissioner has helped him become a better Portland City Commissioner.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Occupying Position #3 on the Portland City Council is the “Commissioner of Public Affairs”, Dan Saltzman. “As you know, these titles have little connection with what we actually do,” Saltzman said with a smile as we began our interview. “The bureaus and organizations we oversee are assigned by the City’s Mayor.”

Read on, and see what we learned in this interview, conducted at Portland City Hall, about how Saltzman governs, and the Bureaus he oversees, and the accomplishments of which he is most proud – in his own words …

Saltzman’s philosophy of governance
“My philosophy is to listen; I’m a very good listener. I’m perhaps a better listener than a talker. I do listen, truly listen, to what people say – and then seek results for them. It’s my way of governing. I get good ideas by listening to people, and finding out what the needs are.”

“This results in how I run the Bureaus of which I’m in charge – and, how I’m responsive to concerns from citizens. It also results in how I act in the initiatives I pursue, or the City policies I support or try to change.”

Commissioner Saltzman says he likes being able to work on projects that make a tangible difference to citizens of the City of Portland.

About being in office
“What I like most about being in office is the opportunity to make a difference. When I really work on issues, I can see the results. It’s the ability to do tangible things and feel that I’m making a difference.

“My passion areas are children and families; and also the environment and sustainable development.

“[Before being elected to Portland City Council] I had a lot of satisfaction as a Multnomah County Commissioner during my five year tenure there. In many respects, this [my current role] is more of a ‘bully pulpit’ for working on the issues about which I care most; it’s a more highly-visible position. And, I think that experience has made me a better City Commissioner; a lot of people in City Hall don’t understand the work of the County.

Saltzman visits the Gateway Area Business Association in February, 2010, to talk about the new Domestic Violence One-Stop Center soon to open on E. Burnside Street at SE 102nd Avenue, and to answer questions about the Bureaus he oversees.

City agencies overseen by Commissioner Saltzman
Bureaus, offices, or agencies in City government are supervised by Portland City Commissioners. Here are the agencies for which Commissioner Saltzman is responsible.

Portland Police Bureau – “It’s been a new experience for me to be in charge of this Bureau. It’s got its own dynamics. The public’s reactions can be hot and cold. But overall, I have a great amount of respect for men and women at the Police Bureau. Not only are they good officers committed to community policing, but also serve in the community as coaches, foster parents, and other community-minded activities.

“Every now and then somebody does something really stupid, or criminal; but, by and large, they are great people.”

Bureau of Environmental Services – “This agency is in charge of our sewer system and also protecting our watershed. They are doing the biggest public works project in the City’s history; it will all but eliminate combined sewage overflows into the Willamette River and Columbia Slough. They’re doing the Big Pipe Project on time and on budget.

“They also do work on watershed restoration; and are eliminating much of the flooding along Foster Boulevard by expanding the wetlands, and increasing the absorption capacity for floodwaters. And, important to East Portlanders, they’re investing in alternative ways – like building bio-swales – to keep rainwater out of our sumps, dry wells, or pipes.”

Children’s Levy Office – “This is the office that oversees the $15 Million a year we invest in organizations providing proven programs. In this small office, they oversee all the contracts and agreements we have with nonprofit organizations to provide early childhood services, after-school mentoring programs, child-abuse prevention and intervention programs, and programs that help children in foster care succeed. We’re serving about 16,000 children a year. We gave priority to programs that serve populations in east of SE 82nd Avenue of Roses, where the need is great.”

Office of Youth Violence Prevention – “As you know, this is an important issue in outer East Portland, especially along the MAX line. They are primarily working to reduce gang-related violence in our City. They work closely with law enforcement and with nonprofit organizations to provide outreach to potential gang members, to steer them away from gang affiliation.

Fire / Police Disability and Retirement Office – “I’ve only had this assignment for a year, but I did lead the reforms that voters approved in 2006. This office has their own board; they make many decisions. The board doesn’t make disability decisions anymore – those are now made by professionals. This office administers the benefits, provides the hearings for disability payments. I hire the office’s Director.

His door is open to all who wish to see him, Saltzman says; and, mail-delivered letters are especially welcomed.

Accomplishments during his current term
“I’m proud of diversity of the Bureau directors who work for me.

“I’m most proud of getting the Children’s Levy overwhelmingly renewed last November, by about 70% of the vote. I’m really pleased that we’ve gotten the Portland Police Bureau through a tough budget year; although this year looks to be tough too, and we’re making cuts. And, that our police force is becoming more diverse.”

Message to outer East Portland citizens
“It’s been an honor to serve the people of Portland. I know a lot of people in east Portland feel neglected. I try to be out there, and learn about issues that are of concern to them. Whether it be housing density, or livability, or public safety issues in Southeast and outer east Portland – I work hard to those seeking representation.”

About being contacted by citizens
“I’ll meet with anyone who wants to meet with me.  Or we can do phone calls or e-mails.

“The ideal method reach me is by telephone or e-mail. We take very seriously people who call and e-mail us. We take even more seriously people or write letters to us, because so few people do that anymore – those go to the top of the heap.”

Contact information

• E-mail: dan@ci.portland.or.us
• Internet Web Page: CLICK HERE to view it!
• Telephone: (503) 823-4151
• US Mail or delivery: 1221 SW 4^th Avenue, Suite 230, Portland, Oregon, 97204.
• Or, visit Dan Saltzman’s Facebook page: CLICK HERE

© 2010 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Discover why our Midland Library hosted their first-ever “NeighborFair” – and what you missed if you didn’t attend …

Chair of Hazelwood’s neighborhood association, Arlene Kimura, learns that Anglia Dickey (here, holding Sofia Vergara) came to the “NeighborFair” because she is concerned about the state of outer East Portland parks.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
A first-of-a-kind NeighborFair, put on by Midland Regional Library, provided a festive atmosphere for citizens to learn more about the 13 outer East Portland neighborhoods, and their coalition, on January 30.

In addition to learning about issues that impact our neighborhoods, and meeting their neighborhood association leaders, attendees discovered that the library had added to the merriment by providing refreshments.

Midland Regional Library’s Naomi Angier says she created the event to help bring neighbors – and neighborhoods – together.

Started with an idea
“When I came to Midland Regional Library, as a public outreach effort, I went to many of our neighborhoods’ association meetings,” said the event’s organizer, Naomi Angier.

“I came away from those visits being very impressed with the activities that the different neighbor associations were doing,” Angier told us. “I thought an event like this one, today, would be perfect – let neighborhood association leaders talk about what they do, what their boundaries are, and how people can get involved.”

The President of the Powellhurst-Gilbert Neighborhood Association, and Spirit of Portland awardee, Mark White, reported that people from all walks of life had come to their table during the event.

“Not only have people been asking about our neighborhood – and about East Portland in general – they’ve asked about all kinds of projects in which we are involved,” White smiled. “These have ranged from the Springwater Corridor Wetlands Project to wildflower and tree plantings. I’m glad we were here to show them how they can participate.”

Debby Friend, and RoseMarie Opp – Chair of Mill Park Neighborhood Association – talk about outer East Portland issues with visitors, including Bull Run water concerns.

The Chair of the Mill Park Neighborhood Association, RoseMarie Opp, observed that their association regularly meets at Midland Library.

“I’ve been mostly talking with people about our Bull Run water issues,” Opp related. “I feel this is critical, because our water bills will be doubling, and we’ll be $1 billion in debt for our community, to fix the ‘Cryptosporidium public health problem’ that, essentially, doesn’t exist.”

By the end of the fair, dozens of people became better acquainted with their neighborhood associations. “There’s a good chance we’ll hold another NeighborFair next year,” Angier said.

© 2010 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Read this, and see why saving a few bucks on a child safety seat could actually cost a parent the life of their child …

Child Safety Seat Technician Instructor, and public education and information officer for AMR, Lucie Drum says good car seats need not be expensive.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
A good child safety seat might be the most thoughtful gift expectant parents could receive – this is what we took away from visiting at a recent Safety Seat Clinic in southeast Portland.

“The number one killer of our children in Oregon is motor vehicle crashes,” recounted Lucie Drum, Child Safety Seat Technician Instructor, and also the public education and information officer for American Medical Response (AMR).

“In addition to providing service to the community we serve, we’re doing out best to help make sure kids are safe when they ride in cars, because emergency medical service providers see the devastating injuries that can happen to children who are not properly restrained in a crash,” Drum said.

Each month, she noted, somewhere in the greater Portland area, AMR Ambulance conducts Child Safety Seat Clinics. “At these clinics, we find that as many as 80 to 85% of child safety seats are improperly installed – or, the kids have outgrown them.”

Ally MacCaskill, who is with AMR, shows expectant mom Rory Pickett how to properly use a new infant safety seat.

Don’t skimp on safety seats
Buying a safety seat at a thrift shop or yard sale is a bad idea, warned Drum. “We recommended that you don’t get such a child restraint if you don’t know its history. You cannot tell if a safety restraint has been in a crash and has hidden structural damage, or if it’s ‘out of date’ and should be discarded.”

Drum turned over a new Child Safety Seat available at the clinic and pointed to the notice it was dated to expire in 2015. “You’ll find the date in embossed lettering, on the back or bottom of every seat. The plastic gets exposed to ultraviolet rays and temperature extremes that can affect the integrity of the child car seat.”

Safety seat buying tips
But, in this tight economy, Drum said, she didn’t want to discourage parents from getting well-fitting car seats. “You don’t have to have the fancy one. As long as the car seat has passed the federal motor vehicle safety standards for crash testing, it’s okay to buy and use.”

However, make sure the seat fits the child – in terms of age, weight and maturity level – and does fit your vehicle. “You also want to have ease-of-use features, so it will be used correctly, every time, in the vehicle.”

Typical seat use errors
Surveys keep turning up these three critical usage and installation errors:

• The seatbelt is too loose;
• The harness does not fit properly; and,
• The restraint is inappropriate for the child.

“‘Inappropriate’ means the child has exceeded the height or weight specifications of the child restraint,” explained Drum. “Children grow very quickly, and it can be tricky to keep up with their maturation rate. It’s not uncommon to find a child restraint that has a harness rated for a 40-pound child being used with one who now weighs 46 or 48 pounds.”

And, she added, after a child outgrows a safety seat, they need to use a “booster seat” until they are tall enough to use a vehicle’s standard restraint system.

Catherine Albrecht, Oregon State Police retired, demonstrates how to correctly use a safety seat.

Financial aid is available
“Unfortunately we are in financially hard times here,” conceded Drum. “Fortunately, throughout Oregon, there is a federally-funded program for child safety seats.” Low-income families – those who qualify for WIC, or are on medical assistance – qualify for new safety seats without cost, she added.

“We recognize that having the correctly-sized child safety seat, and using it properly every time, might be a bit of inconvenience – but consider what might happen if your child is improperly-restrained during a car crash,” concluded Drum. “We ask every parent: Please don’t risk it!”

Next clinic on February 27
Their next event is runs on February 27 from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. at Portland Fire & Rescue Station 23 on SE Powell Boulevard at SE Milwaukie Avenue (enter from the Milwaukie Ave. side.

No appointment is necessary. They ask that you read your vehicle owners manual and car seat instructions prior to attending. A certified technician will be available to work one on one with parents and caregivers to ensure that they can install their child restraints properly. Each seat check takes 20-30 minutes.

To learn more about Child Safety Seat Clinics, check their website: CLICK HERE.

© 2010 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

You’ll be amazed to see which diverse groups got together to build their newest housing development in outer East Portland …

A diverse group of volunteers gather, as the Lents Landing development built by Habitat for Humanity Portland Metro East is completed.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Folks involved with Habitat for Humanity Portland Metro East love seem love celebrating completing a project as much as they enjoy building it.

And, there was a grand celebration, as the Lents Landing development’s first family was about to move into their home at SE 97^th Avenue and SE Woodstock Boulevard, just east of the I-205 Freeway, on January 30.

Habitat for Humanity Portland Metro East’s Executive Director, Steve Messinetti, pauses for a moment before the grand opening ceremony with Margaret VanVliet, Director of the City of Portland Bureau of Housing.

Focus on Lents
“Why this focus on outer Southeast Portland?” we asked the organization’s executive director, Steve Messinetti.

“It’s true, we’ve had success here in Lents – in part, due to its being an Urban Renewal Area,” Messinetti told us. “This provides some tax increment finance dollars for purchasing properties. Over 30 homes will be built here in Lents; it’s an area in which we plan to stay.”

Another reason they’ve focus on Lents is the perceived need for it, Messinetti added. “In this area, there are many renters and a great deal of low income housing. We’re excited to provide some stability – especially for the school system that has struggled with the mobility issue.”

City of Portland Bureau of Housing’s Director, Margaret VanVliet, was also at the grand opening ceremony, and concurred with Messinetti. “An important part of urban renewal is including housing that lower income families can afford to purchase. It helps keep the community stable.”

The Lents Landing community of homes features sturdy, spacious family-sized units – for people willing to work for them.

Diverse organizations make home ownership dreams come true
Messinetti pointed out that, along with the City of Portland and Walsh Construction Company, Lents Landing was sponsored and built by parishioners of Presbyterian churches – and the “Portland Pride Builders”.

“The Portland Pride Builders is a specialty builder that is partnering with Habitat for Humanity Portland/Metro East,” Messinetti explained. “Portland Pride Build embraces Portland’s diversity by bringing together the gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender community and their friends to plan and build a healthy and affordable home for a family in need.”

Still no handouts
Part of the Habitat for Humanity plan gives families low monthly payments by providing financing. But, this isn’t a give-away program, Messinetti was quick to add. “ “‘Sweat equity’ is still part of it. Homeowners will all have put in at least 500 hours of labor to help complete their, and others’, homes.”

Fernando Jimenez and his family gather for a photo in front of their new home in Lents Landing.

About to move into their new home was Fernando Jimenez and his family.

Jimenez was all smiles as he told us, “It’s a very good feeling to have a home, because we’ve been moving, many times, from apartment to apartment. The rents keep going up. Now, we are going to have one place to live, with a low payment every month.”

Beyond the financial benefits that his family will accrue, Jimenez said that having a permanent home will be good for them too. “My children are going to know they will be coming home here every day. It feels better; it feels like we are now part of the community.”

Clackamas Town Center’s Romano’s Macaroni Grill team members Tim Pagnotta, Laura Sleyter, and Manager Russell Smith stand ready to serve lunch to hungry volunteers at the Lents Landing celebration.

Swing a hammer; donate funds
People wanting to get involved with Habitat for Humanity can help in a variety of ways, Messinetti smiled. “Every day of the week, volunteers are working, building homes. But, there are many ways to get involved.”

He pointed to the caterers of the event, the Clackamas Town Center’s Romano’s Macaroni Grill store. Its Manager, Russell Smith, said, “Our owner, Barry McGowan, is a proud sponsor of Habitat for Humanity, and has been since our introduction in the Portland market. Whenever there’s a Habitat for Humanity event close to one of our locations, we’re more than willing to lend a hand.”

To learn more about Habitat for Humanity Portland Metro East, see their website: CLICK HERE to visit it!

© 2010 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Find out what outer East Portland business people learned from a man who has made it his mission to champion the role of fathers in the home – and in society …

Author and speaker Bob Hazleton is greeted by Northeast Portland Rotary president Kevin “Not your ordinary bean-counter” Minkoff, CPA.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
The guest speaker at the NE Portland Rotary Club meeting on January 26 didn’t come to talk about his “day job” – being a mechanical engineer at a Salem architectural firm.

Before the program, Bob Hazleton, author of the book “Dads Matter”, told us he’s concerned because fathers are often portrayed in commercials and TV shows and movies as a goofy, stupid character. “The guy’s made out to be an idiot.”

But, his life experiences – outside of his professional career – have shown him the importance of fathers in the home.

Hazleton says his exploration of fatherhood started when his middle child started acting out negative behaviors.

“It started with our middle child, Jesse,” Hazleton began is presentation.

“He was involved in drugs, alcohol, skipping school – and got into all kinds of trouble,” revealed Hazleton. “After two years of trying to help him on our own, we first sent him to a drug rehab center here in Gresham; it didn’t work.”

A month later, the family escorted Jesse to a program for troubled teens in Ensenada, Mexico. “This was an extremely trying time for everyone in our family. My beliefs about what kind of dad I had been were shaken to the core.”

This program addressed the family system, as well as the troubled teen, Hazleton explained. “If the young person was to be successful on his or her return home, everything at home – especially the family – must change. An integral part of this program is the use of personal growth seminars for both teens and their parents.”

A repeating theme Hazleton says he heard while facilitating seminars revolved around the significance of the father.

After attending several of these seminars, Hazleton said he volunteered to join a group that helped the facilitators and other parents. He took trainings and became certified as a life coach; then as an experiential trainer. “After a thirty-year career in mechanical engineering, I started working full time with at-risk teens as a seminar trainer myself.”

For nearly three years, Hazleton traveled the country a couple of weeks at a time conducting seminars. “No matter where I went, I kept hearing from teens how important their fathers were to them – even if they were abusive, or physically or emotionally absent.”

Written as an ‘emotional response’
Asked what led him to write the book “Dads Matter”, Hazleton replied, “Every time I hear somebody talk about their dads, something happened; I had emotional response. I just kept getting this message from teens who talked about missing their dads, or why dads were important in their life. I had this emotional response urging me to write this book.”

The book contains fifteen stories, the author said. “Some of my stories are mine, some are other people’s stories. They all illustrate how important fathers are.”

To the group of about twenty Rotary Club members and guests at the Refectory Restaurant, he said, “Behaviors follow beliefs. The circumstances in which we are raised affect how children act as adults. Look, the job of parents is to take an innocent child, who is to completely dependent on them – you get 18 years to get them to be a functioning, independent adult. That’s why there’s a chapter about what and how to teach your children.”

Although Hazleton says although he’s gone back to his profession, he hopes to continue spreading the message in “Dads Matter” by way of his book.

After his presentation, Hazleton said, “I thought my life would be dedicated to conducting seminars and getting out the word about how vitally important dads are. But then, the downturn in the economy hit. I’ve gone back to my bread-and-butter profession – but I speak wherever I can to spread this message.”

Find out more about Hazleton, and learn how you can get a copy of his book by visiting his website: CLICK HERE.

Discover NE Portland Rotary!
Northeast Portland Rotary Club meets for lunch every Tuesday at The Refectory Restaurant (use banquet room doors on the north side of the building) at 1618 NE 122nd Avenue. To learn more, visit their website: CLICK HERE.

© 2010 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

You’ll be amazed to discover out how many soup bowls the school’s art students hand-made for this event – raising money to support a local Habitat for Humanity project. And, find out why it’s not too late to help support this worthy project  …

Parkrose High School senior Orest Zavedyuk shows off two of the 90 bowls he created on a potter’s wheel for the school’s first “Souper Bowl” event. He’s joined by his instructor, and the organizer of the event, Mark Warner.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
On Saturday, February 6 – the day before the big football game – students at Parkrose High School held their own “Souper Bowl”. They were selling gourmet soup – in soup bowls fashioned by students in the school’s art department.

In addition to delicious soups and hot breadsticks provided by the Olive Garden Restaurant, guests who each paid a minimum of $15 donation, got to take their new soup bowls home. While there, participants were also treated to entertainment by the Parkrose Jazz Band and choirs, demonstrations on the ceramics potting wheel, and an exhibit of artwork from Ms. Cordova’s art classes.

Rex Putnam High School seniors Kelly Antolic, Kara Webster and Marshal Ellison – all volunteers with the Habitat for Humanity Youth United group, help out by serving soup in the Parkrose High School cafeteria.

Inspired by his mentor
The man behind this tasty fundraiser was Mark Warner, a Parkrose High art instructor who teaches ceramics, sculpture, and AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) classes.

“My mentoring teacher in Madison, Wisconsin – he passed away a couple of years ago – held a similar event at his school,” Warner told us. “There, the ‘Souper Bowl’ grew to the point where they’d raise upwards of $40,000 in one day. To keep his memory alive, I wanted to do something meaningful with my kids.”

Pottery-making is a form of art that, by its nature, allows the artist to create objects with purpose and meaning, Warner observed. “By connecting this work with fundraising, it’s good for our students and good for the community.”

Steven and Joy Voorhees (he’s the Market Master of the Parkrose Farmer’s Market) show off the bowls they purchased in support of the event.

And, Habitat for Humanity will benefit from the fundraiser, Warner pointed out. “It was my mentor’s choice back in Wisconsin,” Warner said. “I didn’t see why we should change it.”

In total, about 160 students were involved in the project, Warner said, making about 300 soup bowls of all sizes, shapes, and colors. “It kept the wheels and kilns pretty busy, especially in the last couple of weeks.”

Choir, vocal and music keyboard instructor, Lesley Bossert, provides beautiful piano music to which guests could sip and sup on their soup dinner.

Top student potter goes into overtime
Of all the students participating in the bowl-making process, Warner announced Parkrose High senior Orest Zavedyuk as the champion potter.

“I made about 90 bowls, Zavedyuk said, with a modest smile. “Mr. Warner decided to have a competition to see who could make the most bowls during a class. I think I beat him by 15 bowls!”

While he might not make pottery-making a career, Zavedyuk said it’s a great hobby. “I’ve taken classes in it since I was a freshman. I enjoy doing it a lot; it’s relaxing to me. I’m thinking about buying my own wheel and creating works that I’ll bring to school for firing and glazing.”

Karen Montez, John Shackleford, and Parkrose High senior Stephanie Montiez enjoy Olive Garden soup served in their new bowls.

Students to build a Habitat home
“We are so thankful that students here at Parkrose High School decided to do the ‘Souper Bowl’ event,” said Marianne McClure, Faith Relations and Youth Coordinator for Habitat for Humanity Metro East.

“These funds will help support our Habitat for Humanity Metro East ‘Youth United’ specialty build,” McClure explained. “In the Youth United program, students from age 5 to 25 raise $60,000 and build a home.”

While students must be at least 16 years of age to swing a hammer, the program encourages the younger kids to help out with advocacy, education, and fund raising, McClure noted. “Parkrose students work with others, including those of college age, to plan and work on homes. That’s why you see Rex Putnam High students here today, helping out.”

To learn more about Habitat for Humanity’s Youth United program, CLICK HERE to visit their website.

You can still help out: Purchase one or more of these student-made bowls.

Surplus bowls for sale
At the event, Warner said they’d raised about $1,000 in pre-sales. “My goal for this year was to raise $2,000. But it’s the first time, and we’re hoping to grow this event over the coming years.”

By the way, you can still help support this worthy project by purchasing food-grade, hand-crafted soup bowls (now without soup, of course!). For best selection, contact him promptly by sending him an e-mail at: mark_warner@parkrose.k12.or.us.

© 2010 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News