Take a look at what these fine folks with the Columbia Slough Watershed Council are doing to help protect a hidden natural area …

Mt. Tabor resident Amy Kearsley, and her friend Jackie Fuller of the Brooklyn neighborhood, volunteer at Wilkes Creek Natural Area

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Even though many residents in the area may not know about the Wilkes Creek Natural Area at NE 154^th Avenue and NE Fremont Street, volunteers from all over the area have been coming by to restore this natural resource, and to continually improve it.

• See our 2007 story when the Wilkes Creek Natural Area was dedicated: CLICK HERE.
• Read about SOLV volunteers work at the area in 2011: CLICK HERE.

Sixteen volunteers braved winter weather on January 14 to continue work on the natural area.

Sam Schongalla, of Columbia Slough Watershed Council, says protecting this area helps improve the water in the Slough.

“Our work party here today is in conjunction with the Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service,” explained Columbia Slough Watershed Council Community (CSWC) Connections Coordinator Sam Schongalla.

“Our volunteers are putting in about 125 plants in about a half-acre area,” Schongalla told us. “This represents eight different species, including ferns and Dogwood.”

Gerry St. Pierre says he came from his home in the Kenton neighborhood to help out – and to take part in preserving the habitat for his children’s enjoyment.

Long-time resident Alice Blatt told her more about the natural area, Schongalla said. “I learned this morning that it’s a creekbed, fed by natural springs, with water coming from Larch Mountain. So, we have some really great water here – which needs to be protected.”

By volunteers stewarding this area, and planting plants, the slough’s waters that eventually find their way into the Columbia Slough are protected, she went on. “In turn, this helps provide drinking water, as it rehydrates our groundwater aquifer.”

Many hands make light work, as CSWC volunteers plant native species in Wilkes Creek Natural Area.

© 2012 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Getting to use just-picked ingredients just outside the door is one reason that kids are learning to cook – during this new series of classes …

Greta Stahle chops dill for a soup garnish.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Savory smells wafted from the door of the Zenger Farm farmhouse in the Powellhurst-Gilbert Neighborhood on the cold, rainy Saturday of January 14th.

And, that delicious food being prepared was mostly cooked by youngsters.

“This is our first ‘Cooking with Kids’ class,” welcomed the instructor and chef, Christian Anayas, who trained at the Culinary Institute of America. “After I graduated in 2004, I worked in a number of restaurants; and now I’ve come to Portland, where I attend Reed College.”

Since he’s worked at Zenger Farm three years, Anayas said he’s seen the need to expand the number of workshops offered by the organization. And, one way to get people more interested in local, fresh, and sustainable food is to show them easy ways to prepare taste-tempting dishes.

Chef Christian Anayas shows Harry Shaw how to season that pot of beet borscht he’s preparing.

“And, I thought it would be especially fun and interesting to create opportunities for kids to learn to cook,” Anayas said. “Cooking together can be a fun way for families to be together.”

Cooking soups was topic of that day’s workshop. “We started by harvesting some of the vegetables we’re using today from our ‘Kids Garden’,” the chef recounted. “And, we thought it would be nice to cook soups, on a cold January day. Today, we’re preparing two different kinds of soups – a creamy clam chowder, and red beet borscht.”

Some of the kids were stirring, keeping a watchful eye on the pots. Others were cutting up garnishes and fresh bread – all too busy to comment for us, beyond: “This is fun”.

“Mmmmm” is what mom Sandy Stahle says after sniffing the borscht at the Zenger Farm cooking class.

Monthly classes continue through Spring
On February 4, “Cooking with Kids” continues, with “How to make Pasta”. From 10 a.m. until 12 noon, Chef Anayas will help kids learn how to make pasta from scratch.

“You and your child will learn to mix, knead pasta dough, and use a pasta machine,” promises Anayas. “We will harvest herbs and vegetables from the farm, and return to the farmhouse to create make two kinds of pasta – fresh noodles, and filled pasta.”

Cook, eat, and go home with the recipes! The cost is $40 for one adult and one child (additional children, $15 each). To sign up online, CLICK HERE to open their “workshops” webpage. Residents of Powellhurst-Gilbert, Lents, and Pleasant Valley are offered a 15% discount on all workshops; and scholarships are available.

Call for more information about classes, discounts, or scholarships: (503) 282-4245. Zenger Farm is located at 11741 SE Foster Road.

The classes are held different Saturdays of the month. Be sure to check our COMMUNITY CALENDAR for upcoming classes!

© 2012 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Learn which organizations came up with best ideas, as selected by the granting committee …

At last year’s Ramona Street Fair, folks came to learn more about the Lents area and eco-friendly ideas. East Portland News file photo

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
From among 33 applications for funding in the East Portland Neighborhood Office’s 2012 East Portland Neighborhood Small Grant Program, its governing committee selected sixteen programs when they met in December.

After evaluating the grant requests, the eight-member committee – composed of volunteer community members representing business, education, neighborhoods, and community organizations – selected these projects, programs, and events to be funded through its $37,000 budget.

After they planted seeds and grew crops at the Parkrose Heights Community Garden, participants gather for a harvest dinner in the fall of 2011. East Portland News file photo

The granted projects follow, by general neighborhood area:

Argay
In this northeast community, the Lao “Community Connection” received a grant for $1,500 to deliver a Portland Plan Workshop in English and Lao.

Centennial
To help finish a “Walking Trail” and engage neighbors at this Centennial School District school, just east of Parklane Park, Parklane Elementary Walking Trail project was awarded $2,000. Additionally $3,500 was granted in support of the 2012 Parklane Neighborhood Fair and Movie.

A Neighborhood Small Grant supported the 2011 Powellhurst-Gilbert National Night Out and Movie in the Park festival. East Portland News file photo

Glenfair
Once again, the annual Glenfair combined “Movie in the Park” and National Night Out party received a grant – this year, in the amount of $2,200.

Hazelwood
Three programs will take place in Hazelwood this year. A “Chess for Success” After-School Chess Club at Lincoln Park Elementary received a $3,500 grant; a special event to bring awareness to issues at East Holladay Park was awarded $901; and, because of the wide participation this event attracts, the return of the Gateway “Fun-O-Rama Parade” received approval for its $1,377 request.

Neighbors in Wauna Vista got a grant last year to help them host a neighborhood-wide National Night Out block party for the entire Centennial area. East Portland News file photo

Parkrose
Neighborhood leaders in Parkrose stepped up to partner with Comunidad Latina Aprendiendo to help them obtain a grant of $1,500 to host “Conexion Latina II”, intended to engage Hispanic speakers in classes that teach about Domestic Violence, DHS, and the Mexican Consulate.

Parkrose Heights
A $2,100 grant will helpthe Parkrose Heights Association of Neighbors produce their 2012 National Night Out Party; and these neighbors will host a “Movie in the Park” at Knott Park, for which they received a $1,245 grant.

Powellhurst-Gilbert
The Powellhurst-Gilbert Neighborhood Association’s 2012 National Night Out event received a $3,500 grant; and the committee again supported the East Portland Exposition with $3,500 in funding.

At an event to raise awareness for developing a new park in the Gateway area, the Hazelwood and Woodland Park Neighborhoods used grant funds to hold a public event at the site – the former “JJ North’s Restaurant” property  ChaCha the Clown twists balloons for delighted kids. East Portland News file photo

Lents
With the help of grant funding, two events will return to the Lents Neighborhood: Lents Founders Day 2012: A Celebration of Community, which received a $3,500 grant; and the 2012 Ramona Street Fair’s request for $2,650 was approved as well.

Wilkes
To help with plans to expand the Wilkes Park “Movie in the Park”, there was a $2,500 allotment.

Woodland Park
And, to help keep the spotlight on the proposed park on NE Halsey Street, the Woodland Park Neighborhood folks received $1,473 in grant support for their “Movie & Community Fair at Gateway Park”.

Dedicating the school garden at Mill Park Elementary School in June – partially funded by this grant program, is the project coordinator, third-grade teacher Kelly Cutler, principal Rolando Florez and secretary Julie Reed. East Portland News file photo

Projects supported by the East Portland Neighborhood Small Grant Program, funded by the City of Portland’s Office of Neighborhood Involvement, are “leveraged” by the grantees. This year, these granted projects are contributing a combined total of $135,840 in matching funds, in-kind donations and volunteerism.

For more information, See EPNO’s website: CLICK HERE, or call (503) 823-4550.

© 2012 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

See why it’s even easier, now, to safely discard medications – thanks to a new service in outer East Portland …

MCSO Public Information Officer Lt. Steve Alexander shows off the newly-installed “MedReturn” unit in their main office.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
It didn’t get much fanfare when the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) installed a brand new “MedReturn” prescription drug collection unit in the lobby of the Hansen Building in December.

But, as word has gotten out, more and more people are now coming in to the MCSO headquarters to make use of this handy, confidential service.

• To read our story about a similar box installed at Portland Police Bureau East Precinct in May, 2011: CLICK HERE.

“The program offers the public a means to anonymously deposit their expired, unused, or unwanted prescription drugs,” explained MCSO Public Information Officer, Lt. Steve Alexander.

“Prescription drug abuse by teens and adults is a growing trend,” Alexander continued. “The collection box helps to keep drugs out of the hands of individuals who may use them in an unsafe or unlawful manner.”

Further, it’s sometimes unclear to law-abiding citizens just how to safely rid their medicine cabinets of expired or unused medicines. “Throwing them away, or flushing them down the drain, pose potential safety and health hazards to individuals, and to our natural ecology,” Alexander added. “We dispose of them properly, in an environmentally-responsive way.”

Disposing of all kinds of drugs is easy and confidential, they say – just open the door, and drop them into the “MedReturn” box.

The idea is catching on. At last check, MCSO has taken in about 750 pounds of medicines, all now destined for destruction.

Asked if folks could turn in illegal drugs as well, Alexander replied, “Again, this is an anonymous collection device for any kind of drug – prescription or illicit. No matter, we’ll take care to safely dispose of it.”

Medications from households are accepted in any form, including prescriptions, over-the-counter, and pet medications. Individuals are asked to deposit the medicine in its original container – you can “black out” or remove the labels, which contain a name – and keep them tightly sealed and secured in a Ziploc bag to prevent leakage and contamination, added Alexander.

• Acceptable items – Expired, unused, or unwanted controlled, non-controlled, and over-the-counter medications, including pet medications. Liquid products, such as cough syrup, must be tightly sealed in a leak-proof container.
• Unacceptable items include – “Sharps”, syringes, thermometers, hydrogen peroxide, aerosol cans, and inhalers. Also, they are unable to accept medications from clinics, nursing homes, or businesses.

Hundreds of pounds of medications have been collected in the new “MedReturn” box (it’s emptied daily!) so far.

The “MedReturn Drug Collection Unit” was purchased for the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office with funds from Oregon HIDTA. By the way, the office is located at 12240 NE Glisan Street, just east of NE 122nd Avenue.

© 2012 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Find out how kids now have the chance to learn on ‘real’ pianos – instead of taking lessons on electronic toy keyboards – at this East Portland music center …

Seated at one of eight brand new Yamaha pianos at CMC, Madeline DeWeese listens, as teacher George Cheshier gives instruction.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
The young students, now able to take their piano lessons on brand new Yamaha Arius digital instruments, looked delighted as they took their seats in Community Music Center’s (CMC) piano classroom in southeast Portland on the afternoon of January 10.

“The difference between these, and electronic keyboards, is tremendous,” exclaimed CMC’s instructor of 16 years, professional musician George Cheshier.

“These are wonderful quality instruments,” grinned Cheshie, “And it’s a pleasure to be able to have nice equipment on which to teach. All of our students have a better learning experience now, because these pianos have a full-size 88-key keyboard. And, the keys are ‘weighted’ to simulate the feel of playing a real piano, to help them learn good technique.”

CMC student Jack Bibb begins playing his lesson on a new CMC piano.

CMC Director Gregory Dubay smiled has he watched the class get underway.

“Thanks to Portland’s ‘Classic Pianos’ store, we were able to purchase eight pianos, and other needed instruments with funds from a bequest of the Jack Malcom estate,” Dubay said.

Malcom was a successful florist in Gresham, and a member of the Metropolitan Arts Commission, Dubay observed. After his death in 2009, his estate set aside $1.2 million for generous charitable gifts to local institutions. An additional small portion of the estate was left to the discretion of the executor, Bob Dye, who toured the facility, and then gave CMC $20,000 to purchase the new instruments.

Madeline and Ethan DeWeese play their first lessons on new pianos at the Community Music Center.

The CMC’s nonprofit foundation board of directors intends to spend the rest of the donation on other instruments, including (strings, winds, and brass instruments, which will be loaned out to low-income students for music lessons, Dubay added.

Learn more the Community Music Center, a Portland Parks & Recreation facility in SE Portland, by going online: CLICK HERE. Or call 503-823-3177. It’s located at 3350 SE Francis Street.

© 2012 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Take a look, and learn about this East Portland club that promotes what they call the ‘life-long sport’ …

Oregon Rowing Unlimited crew members Arthur Wilson and Bryan Schreiner say that rowing is a sport for the young and old alike.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
On the chilly and clear New Year’s Day morning, when many revelers were recovering from their late-night party, a group of valiant rowing enthusiasts were carrying their long, thin boats down to the edge of the Willamette River.

At their Oaks Park boathouse, Oregon Rowing Unlimited’s director, Frank Zagunis, explained, “We’re ready to take off for a ‘New Year’s Row’.”

Far from being a competitive event, the outing was simply an opportunity for members to enjoy their sport of choice, Zagunis explained. “We’re expecting a crew of all ages – teens, to older people – to come row with us today.”

The club frequently has outings with “composite crews”, utilizing the motive power of people new to the sport, in addition to those who are highly experienced rowers. “Our volunteer organization’s mission is to promote rowing. We teach youth – as young as 12 years old — how to row. And, some of our new rowers started in their 70s,” Zagunis said, about the fifty-member club, started in 1988.

Kristy Aserlind sets the lineups for the boats, based on the club members who attend the event, while and Oregon Rowing Unlimited Director Frank Zagunis looks on.

Rower Dana Ham checks over the rigging on his shell.

One of the older members, Arthur Wilson, said it seemed like a good morning for rowing. He started with the club in August. “I’ve been involved in rowing before, in other cities where I’ve lived. But I’m learning a lot more by being with this group. It’s amazing how you get out of shape – but this is a very good non-impact sport, and frees your mind. For me, it’s a ‘lifetime sport’.”

The youngest participant that morning was Bryan Schreiner, a junior at Oregon Episcopal School. “I’ve been rowing since the summer of fifth grade. My dad did rowing in college. At first I was afraid, but once I got on the water, I loved it!”

Schreiner said he’s recommended the sport to others his age. “I’ve met kids from Wilson, Lincoln, and other schools – including homeschoolers. And, it’s fun to help younger kids learn, in their ‘Juniors’ program.”

Off they go, carrying their shell down to the river.

The larger, longer boats the club takes out – thin, narrow, sleek craft – are called “rowing shells”, explained Zagunis. “This morning, the crews will be ‘sculling’. Each rower will have two oars is in the water; whereas with ‘sweeping’, each rower would paddle one oar.”

Observing the swift flow of the Willamette on January 1^st, Zagunis acknowledged that river rowing is a little tougher than lake rowing. “The hull speed is the same, but the apparent land speed is different. Even a skilled rower would have trouble keeping up with today’s current – even if they knew what they were doing. We don’t send out novices on days like today.”

The rowing shell is carefully lowered into the Willamette River.

Equipment checked, the crewmembers inverted their shells, and marched down to the floating dock – and, on a coordinated count, slowly lowered each one into the water on the downstream side.

When everyone was situated, they let go of the dock, drifted downstream, and started rowing out into the river, for an invigorating outing under brilliant blue skies.

To learn more about Oregon Rowing Unlimited, visit their website: CLICK HERE to open their homepage.

On New Year’s Morning: Sculling on the river.

© 2012 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

See why folks at this agency say the timing is good for them to be back in their main building, in the Powellhurst-Gilbert Neighborhood …

Human Solutions has moved back into this building on SE Powell Boulevard, and is again serving those in need there.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Just after outer East Portland non-profit organization Human Solutions started its annual energy assistance program last fall, a fire at the agency’s main office at 12350 SE Powell Boulevard on October 16 threw the organization into temporary disarray.

• To read about the fire, see our article: CLICK HERE.

But, the fire – suspected to have been set off by an errant roofer’s torch – didn’t stop their workers from rendering aid to very-low-income folks who live in East Portland – from the Brentwood-Darlington neighborhood, eastward to Gresham – including giving them energy assistance vouchers to stay warm, as winter set in.

“Some of our workers moved temporarily to our homeless shelters,” said the organization’s director, Jean DeMaster. “Some to the new Rockwood building; five of our staff members moved into the building’s Community Room, and others at our annex across the street.”

Lyubov Tsinovkina, Lead Workforce Specialist, and Human Solutions Director Jean DeMaster together look at the newly-replaced ceiling, an area completely destroyed by the fire.

During their main office’s renovation, however, many of the people they help had to travel as many as five additional miles to receive services ranging from emergency shelter to energy assistance to employment counseling.

But, on January 9, a sense of normalcy started returning as staffers set up their offices, brought in their files and arranged their desks.

“It’s good to be back, together, in our building,” DeMaster said, as she pointed out the new ceilings, flooring and cleaned office interiors, who added that they serve more than 30,000 people each year are served from that office.

Looking around the nearly empty lobby – usually filled with those looking for help – DeMaster added, “The message were trying to get out to the people in East Portland, especially to those in the Brentwood-Darlington and Lents neighborhoods, is to come back to Human Solutions at SE 123rd and Powell Boulevard if you need services.”

Human Solutions Energy Coordinator Roxanne Beveridge makes photocopies in the main office area, now fully restored after being badly damaged by the fire.

While they typically run low on vouchers this time of year, DeMaster noted, “We have funds for energy assistance to those available to eligible households. And we’re also serving homeless families and giving them into housing as quickly as possible. It’s so cold outside, we want to make sure that people come in and get help if they need it.

Human Solutions’ Powell office is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. The building’s Community Room is again available, free of charge, seven days a week during the day and early evening. For more information, call (503) 548-0200 or visit their website: CLICK HERE to open their homepage.

© 2012 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Read on, and learn what this unique program is doing to fulfill its mission to create a more livable East Portland …

The East Portland Action Plan general meetings each begin with dinner, for participants and guests.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
While looking for a way to address problems specific to outer East Portland, then-Mayor Tom Potter, then-State Representative Jeff Merkley, and then-Multnomah County Chair Ted Wheeler called for a gathering of representatives from neighborhoods, businesses, government services, and the faith community back in December of 2007.

While this trio of local civic leaders have gone on to other things, but the effort has continued – and the “East Portland Action Plan” (EPAP) emerged in February of 2009, after a lengthy series of meetings.

To read our prior article – with numerous links to others of our stories – which details how EPAP came about, CLICK HERE.

Participants gather in the David Douglas School District for the December meeting.

EPAP Co-Chair Katie Larsell brings the meeting to order, and reviews the “Four Principals Principles for Improved Livability”.

At the final meeting of the EPAP Co-Chair, Katie Larsell, started off by recapped “Four Principles for Improved Livability”. These include:

1. Mitigate Negative Trends – This is accomplished, first, by stabilizing negative trends that affect the area’s quality of life, in both real and perceived ways. Beyond the immediate goal of stabilizing East Portland, the Action Plan also identifies strategies and actions to improve the quality of life, or livability.
2. Attain and Sustain Equity – This addresses the “universal concern” whether or not East Portland is receiving a “fair share” of resources and attention by policy makers. Beyond this, the EPAP seeks to sustain the effort, because type and complexity of issues facing East Portland will not be solved with “quick fixes or one-time efforts”.
3. Build on Community Assets and Connections – These assets have been identified and include a wide array of housing, a range of employment opportunities, diverse school choices, and distinct community pride. In particular, the area has a special focus on families and cultural diversity that other areas are trying to create. The Action Plan seeks to tap into these assets and promote them to the region.
4. Capitalize on East Portland’s Place in the Region – This starts with recognizing that the area is served by two light rail lines, two freeways, and a network of streets and transit routes – all of which provide exceptional connectivity in the Portland metropolitan region. The Gateway Regional Center, the Lents Town Center, and other places, present opportunities to accommodate new jobs, retail, services, and housing. It also places a high value on protecting and enhancing parks, open space, and significant natural areas.

Powellhurst Gilbert Neighborhood’s Tom Barnes, representing the East Portland Graffiti Clean-up, and Mark White, neighborhood association president (and candidate for Portland City Council), listen as ROSE Community Development Executive Director Nick Sauvie makes a point.

Participating David Douglas High student Julie Braet listens, while MAXaction Committee Chair Mike Vander Veen points out a fact.

When asked about the plan, EPAP Advocate Lore Wintergreen is quick to point out that all of the work is done, and progress is being monitored by community members who have arranged themselves into committees and subcommittees, based on individual and collective interests. These include Bike, Civic Engagement, Communications, Grants Review, and Housing committees.

This year, the EPAP developed “Action Plan priority guidance” for the City of Portland:

• Set the goal that East Portland reach parity with other parts of the city in public facilities and capital spending, and encourage City Bureaus to prioritize projects in East Portland.
• Adopt the “East Portland in Motion” strategy.
• Institutionalize geographic mapping of City spending.
• Integrate the East Portland Action Plan into the Comprehensive Plan, including zoning and design standard recommendations developed in the “122nd Zoning Project”, with applications throughout East Portland.
• Fund East Portland Action Plan implementation: Advocate positions, projects, and operations.
• Establish policy and practice that balances the regional affordable housing supply and promotes fair-share across Portland.
• Fund the “Outer Powell Conceptual Design Plan”.
• Enhance safety in East Portland through active commitment to gang-prevention partnerships, with emphasis in the Centennial/Rosewood area.
• Take the next steps to implement the “Gateway Education Plan”.
• Establish policies and practices to address timing, permit notification, and funding of services, when development occurs: Include schools, parks, streets, etc.
• Provide development regulation information in multiple languages; assist speakers of all languages to understand the process.
• Establish incentives to upgrade materials and design quality used in multi-dwelling development.
• Maintain funding for the East Portland “Enhanced Housing Inspection” position.
• Implement existing Park master plans for Parklane, Beach, and Clatsop Butte.
• Increase energy assistance for low-income residents.
• Increase opportunities for minority home ownership.
• Initiate pilot projects for development of high-quality housing, compatible with existing development and natural features – and a housing rehabilitation program to improve the safety and appearance of existing housing stock.
• Formulate equity and criteria that establishes “Children’s Lev”  fund distribution based upon Free & Reduced Lunch and racial/ethnic disparity demographics.
• Eradicate invasive plants and species in public and natural areas.
• Increase street-tree plantings.
• Engage ethnic communities in neighborhood activities; provide translation/language services to remove barriers and to improve messaging and invitations.
• Develop a prioritized list for improvements to existing transit stops.

Guests are invited to attend the next EPAP meeting, scheduled for January 25.

If you’re interested in learning more about the EPAP, or even in joining with them, contact Wintergreen at (503) 823-4035; e-mail her at lore.wintergreen@portlandoregon.gov – or, to see their official website, CLICK HERE.

© 2012 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Now that we’ve rung in the new year, here’s a reminder about how your return-deposit bottles and cans help the “Can Man and Crew” to help students in Parkrose area schools …

-1 Dave Luce, the “Parkrose Can Man” (center), gets help from volunteers in sorting deposit-return bottles and cans delivered to the monthly can drive.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Instead of sorting and lugging your deposit-return cans, bottles, and plastic beverage containers back to the stores, consider taking them over to Parkrose Middle School and dropping them off for Dave Luce and his merry band of volunteers on Saturday, January 7.

“I started doing this in 1995, when our youngest boy had graduated,” Luce said. “I started this to help the school.”

And help the school he certainly has. “Last year we did about $17,000,” recalled Luce.  “Over the last five years, we’ve raised $77,500 for both the Parkrose Bronco Boosters and the Senior All-night Party.”

The first half of this school year has given them a good start, Can Man Luce reported. “We’re looking forward to a good year.”

Parkrose Middle School “Advancement Via Individual Determination” students help out at this monthly can drive.

In addition to the monthly can drive – he splits the proceeds with whatever Parkrose area school group helps out that month – Luce also maintains and empties recycling containers at area businesses, office buildings, and organizations.

“For example, Pacific Northwest Federal Credit Union has established a site,” Luce acknowledged. “Now, they encourage all their customers to bring their deposit return bottles and cans there, for us.”

Drop off your cans on Saturday, and you’ll see for yourself why Dave Luce is called the “Can Man”!

Next can drive is January 7
From 9 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on January 7, bring your deposit-return cans and bottles with you to help support their efforts. It’s at Parkrose Middle School, on NE Shaver Street, a block west of NE 122^nd Avenue, across from Parkrose High School.

For more information, to have a large load picked up, or to have a collection bin put in your place of business, call Dave Luce at (503) 255-3745.

• On our front page, Carter Alfrey shows no one is too young to help out at the monthly Parkrose can drive!

© 2012 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Need a “farmers market fix” during the winter months? Head to Montavilla for their once-a-month session this Sunday, for fresh veggies, fruits and goodies …

-1 Montavilla “Stock-Up Market” shoppers seem delighted with the offerings of Kiyokawa Family Orchards, a family-owned and operated farm located in Parkdale, Oregon.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Although spending time at outer East Portland’s delightful summertime farmers markets is currently a distant memory – there still is a place to shop for fresh foods, thanks to the folks who run the Montavilla Farmers Market.

“We call it a ‘Stock-Up Market’,” explained Market Manager Gretchan Jackson.

“It’s a two hour rural-style market,” continued Jackson. “In this style of market, the vendors drive their vehicles into the lot – we set up canopies – and the market begins as they sell from the back of their trucks and cars.”

Montavilla Farmers Market volunteer Dagmar Miller and Manager Gretchan Jackson welcome shoppers to the rain-or-shine monthly “Stock-Up” Market.

At the December 11 market, 17 vendors provided a wide variety of products from which shoppers chose.

“We felt it is a great extension of the market season into the winter,” Jackson smiled. “This is the time of year when foods can be their most delicious, and the produce gets sweeter! It’s a great venue for vendors to come and make some money in the winter.”

Rod Tachenko of Val’s Veggies in Medical Springs, Oregon, gives shopper Kate Malone some ideas about how to fix winter squash.

At the same time, she added, “It’s proven to meet the needs of our community.”

The next Montavilla Winter Farmer’s “Stock-up” Market is Sunday, January 8, for just two hours – from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. – rain or shine.

While these once-a-month winter markets don’t have the “bells and whistles” of the regular markets – like chef demonstrations and outdoor dining area – you’ll still find great winter produce and goods. The EBT/Debit Token program is available.

For a full list of vendors (or more information) check their website: CLICK HERE. It’s located in the 7600 Block of SE Stark Street, just west of the Academy Theater, and across the street from Mr. Plywood.

The owner and chief baker of Gabriel’s Bakery, Amilcar Alvarez, tempts shoppers with a wide variety of delicious baked goods.

© 2012 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

See why many families are coming here, from all over outer East Portland, to enjoy concerts geared for folks with kids …

Whistlin’ Rufus entertains at the CMC’s Family Friday Concert Series.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
As the music group Whistlin’ Rufus – rooted in classical, Irish, folk, bluegrass, rock and roll, and jazz – took the stage, another season of Community Music Center’s “Family Friendly Friday Concerts” series was underway a few weeks ago.

“We’re really excited about the new season,” exclaimed one of the volunteer coordinators, Veronica Dujon. “For example, we’re looking forward to a presentation of  the Portland Opera Company’s ‘Opera to go’ programs here in March.”

These programs, which take place in Portland Parks & Recreation’s only music-specific facility, don’t just happen by accident, assured volunteer Carolyn Landsverk.

The CMC volunteer Events Committee members Veronica Dujon and Carolyn Landsverk host a Family Friday Concert event.

“We start preparing for the season in the summer,” Landsverk said. “It’s a matter of selecting artists and groups, and then trying to make all of their schedules match.”

A benefit of now being in the fourth season, Dujon pointed out, is “a number of groups enjoyed their experience here so much, they tell us – before we ask them – that they want to come back.”

“And now, we also have new groups call us,” Landsverk added, “once they’ve heard about the programs and the audiences the they’ll attract. This is just so nice for families.”

-3 Everyone seems to enjoy Whistlin’ Rufus as they kick of CMC’s Family Friday Concert Series.

Community Music Center’s Family Friday Concert Schedule:

• January 20 – Classical Revolution PDX
• February 10 – Portland Cello Project
• March 2 – Portland Opera ‘To Go’
• April 13 – Oregon Renaissance Band
• May 11 – Ezra Weiss Quartet

Programs start at 7:15 p.m. end at 8:30 p.m. Admission is free – with a suggested donation of $5.00 ($15 for a family of any size); tickets available at the door only.

Fresh popcorn, snacks and refreshments are sold at the door for a minimal price. Landsverk and Dujon also wanted us to know that all proceeds from these donations benefit scholarships and other programs at the Community Music Center, at 3350 S.E. Francis Street. Visit them online: CLICK HERE or call (503) 823-3177.

© 2011 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

The number of folks associated with the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office who participate in this annual giving event is astounding. Take a look at this, and find out just what the ‘men and women in green’ do, that delights so many kids …

MCSO Corrections Division Captain Raimond Adgers, and Liz Daily, Program Supervisor of the Facilities Security Unit at Inverness Jail, greet their guests: Students from the Community Transitional School.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
It might seem odd for a reporter be delighted to visit the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office’s (MCSO) Inverness Jail in outer East Portland– especially just days before Christmas.

But even the ice storms of years past haven’t kept East Portland News from checking in on this event – held this year on December 16.

As heavy steel doors clanged shut behind us, the silence of the hallways gave way to laughter and delight bubbling from throngs of youngsters inside – enjoying a party in the jail’s massive briefing room!

As part of his “Jugglemania” show, family entertainer extraordinaire Rhys Thomas helps Kai learn to balance a spinning ball on his finger.

“It’s our 23rd annual Community Transitional School party,” greeted Liz Daily, who is MCSO Program Supervisor of the Facilities Security Unit at Inverness. “We provide entertainment, lunch, presents for the children – and, of course, a personal visit with Santa Claus – for children who attend this school.”

The planning and work that goes into this well-orchestrated annual party begins long before the day itself, Daily smiled. “We don’t just give the kids ‘random’ gifts. The school provides a list – each child gets two toys – and we work off that ‘wish list’. They also get needed clothing.”

With all the entertainment and activities at this party, students don’t seem to notice the hundreds of gifts that still await them.

This year, with 268 gifts to be purchased, about 300 MCSO sworn and non-sworn staffers put in the time to obtain the gifts.

Then, on the day before the party, Daily said a women’s inmate work crew decorated the briefing room. “They really seem to enjoy doing it. They always say that helping out in this way ‘makes Christmas real’ for them, even though they are in jail during the Holiday season.”

Volunteers load up their guests’ plates with hot pizza and other treats.

The program is simple. After singing carols, and following entertainment by the incomparable Rhys Thomas’ “Jugglemania” show, the exuberant youths tucked into a lunch of pizza supplied by Izzy’s at Gateway, and other treats donated by ARAMARK Food Services.

Multnomah County Sheriff Dan Staton was all smiles as he mingled with the children at the event – eventually sitting at a table where he talked with kids while enjoying a slice of pizza with them.

Just before Santa’s entrance, Staton told East Portland News, “This particular day is the best, for me – to have these wonderful young people coming in. It’s so nice to see them so happy.”

Multnomah County Sheriff Dan Staton listens to young students who confide their career plans to him.

Especially fun for him, Staton said, was learning a lot about the kids. “For example, the young lady talking with me right now says that she wants to be a veterinarian. She’s explaining to me what I can do to help her get there.”

About the staff who appear so dedicated to making the day a success, Staton added, “They are fabulous. They put in hours and hours of volunteer time to put this together. We all benefit from their efforts when we get to see the smiles, hear about aspirations, and learn what these kids want in life. They become part of our family.”

MCSO Corrections Division Captain Raimond Adgers, and Liz Daily, Program Supervisor of the Facilities Security Unit at Inverness Jail, show an illustration of the basketball court they’ll be constructing for the Community Transitional School.

MCSO Corrections Division Captain Raimond Adgers couldn’t wait to tell about the special surprise they had for the school. “With the help of community partners, we’re building a complete basketball court at the school this year.”

Adgers continued, “We enlisted Multnomah County Circuit Court Judges, Multnomah County Corrections Deputy Association, Multnomah County Deputy Sheriff’s Association, Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office Management Association, Bernhardt Industries, Inc., The Rommell Architectural Partnership, Wieden and Kennedy Advertising, and Wood Village Lowes, as partners in the project.”

Santa Claus helps Xzavier pose for a photo, before listening to his Christmas wishes.

After the party got underway, Santa came in, sat in his sleigh, and listened to the Christmas dreams of each child at the party.

It was only then that Daily had a moment to reflect on why she’s chaired this event for so many years. “I love Christmas, and this is the start of Christmas for me. This, to me, is what Christmas is all about. I really enjoy it – I’ve done for seven or eight years, and I love it every year. It’s the best part of Christmas.”

© 2011 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News