Take a look at this unique visit at which leaders from a far-away land – almost daily in the news – sat down in Hazelwood, to discover how outer East Portlanders help reduce crime by cooperating with police …

Outer East Portland Crime Prevention Specialist Teri Poppino [far right] leads a discussion with Afghan officials about how neighbors cooperate with police to help keep our streets safe.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
On the national TV news, we often see leaders from far-away countries – such as in the Mid-east – talking about problems they face in their region of the world.

But, on July 28, district governors, tribal chiefs, and provincial councilmen from Afghanistan stopped by the East Portland Neighborhood Office in the Hazelwood Neighborhood, to learn more about life and public safety in outer East Portland.

With the aid of an interpreter, the guests gain a better understanding of how our state, county, and local governments work with our citizens – although some of the visitors spoke excellent English.

World Affairs Council of Oregon’s International Visitor Leadership Program organized the informal meeting with the 10 Afghan leaders.

“We were giving our guests an opportunity to learn how public-private partnerships and he Office of Neighborhood Involvement works with law enforcement to prevent crime,” explained the Council’s Mariko Gilman. “But overall, the visitors come to meet Americans of different ages and backgrounds, and learn about the traditions and ideas which characterize the United States, and make it unique. This person-to-person program builds international friendships, and promotes international understanding.”

Neighbors Ron and Jan Clemenson listen as the discussion continues.

Neighbors, including Centennial Community Association’s Vice Chair, Ron Clemenson, and his wife Jan, were on hand to share what it’s like to live in outer East Portland.

Clementson then asked, “What your feelings are about our military being in your country? Are we doing more harm than good?”

A regional governor and senator agreed that “This is an involved complicated debate. We cannot answer this question in a few words; it requires a long explanation.”

Nodding in agreement, Clemenson signaled he was okay with letting the question drop.

US State Department simultaneous interpreter Noorulbasar Durrani [standing] relays questions and answers between the visiting delegation and the group.

However, a leader from another region spoke up, through the interpreter: “I will add something,” he said emphatically. “Yes, Afghanistan needs support from the international community, especially from the United States. With eight or nine years of international presence [in our country], many were expecting lots of things from it; yet, nothing has happened.

“The main thing is that no one has worked on external influences. Instead, they work on internal influences. The problem is coming in from the outside the country. I would suggest the best way the international community could help is to go to work on external influences and stop them from coming in.”

East Portland Crime Prevention Coordinator Rosanne Lee tells how they work with landlords to improve community safety.

Describes multi-family dwelling safety program
Talking about how she and other Crime Prevention Coordinators help increase community safety here was Rosanne Lee. Talking about the City’s Enhanced Safety Properties Program, Lee explained how it is meant to encourage and support landlords and property managers in taking measures to keep their properties safe and livable.

“There are three parts to the program,” Lee told the group. “First is the landlord training program offered by the City. Then, being certified requires that the participants meet CPTED (Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design) standards. Finally, landlords are required to share crime prevention strategies with the residents.”

The delegation also met Pat Gold, the director of Allied Health Services East, the community methadone clinic. There was an in-depth conversation about illegal drugs – specifically, how law enforcement and the community deal with drug-addicted people, and illegal drug trafficking.

We learned that, in Afghanistan, drug use is prohibited under Sharia Islamic Law. Because it is, at the same time, a cultural, religious, and legal issue, open drug use is not prevalent; it is very much underground. “There are very, very serious sanctions for those caught using drugs,” a delegated commented.

Portland Police Bureau Neighborhood Resource Officers and other community service organization representatives were also on hand to speak about their specialties.

The delegation gathers in the EPNO patio for photos after the meeting.

After the meeting, we asked the US State Department simultaneous interpreter, Noorulbasar Durrani, why the delegates appeared to trust his translation. “I am from a well-known, and well-respected family that has been prominent in the country’s leadership. We all know I would do nothing to dishonor my family’s name by intentionally inaccurately interpreting for them.”

Says makes us better ‘citizens of the world’
We asked the local organizer, East Portland Crime Prevention Specialist Teri Poppino, why she enjoys hosting these international exchange sessions.

> Read our story about a Chinese delegation’s visit, earlier this year: CLICK HERE.

“It’s important, because we live in the ‘greater world’,” Poppino replied. “And in outer East Portland, many of our new neighbors are immigrants from these countries. It gives us better insight into who they are, what their lives are like, what their beliefs are, what their cultures are. It makes us better, more empathic, more well-rounded citizens.”

The give-and-take with delegations – such as this group of Afghan officials in the EPNO courtyard – helps promote better relations globally, organizers say.

During these meetings, Poppino added, “We’re talking about some of the real problems, and perceived problems, in our area. We also share how, by working together, we not only eliminate problems but we dispel myths.”

Summing up the session, Poppino concluded, “It’s more than a give and take; these meetings create synergy that is greater than the sum of those meeting in the room. When these people first came in, many of them appeared very reserved. By the end, there were smiles, they looked more relaxed, and I felt we really shared something special.”

© 2010 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Come on along for photos of our tour through outer East Portland, as we checked into ten “National Night Out against Crime” picnics, parties, and events of all sizes. There’s a record number of photos in this article …

At the well-attended Parkrose Heights Association of Neighbors National Night Out party, folks get to know one another while listening to the sounds of the Eric Christopher Band. See more photos from our stop at their event, further down in this article!

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
All across outer East Portland – from the Lents neighborhood in the south, to the Argay neighborhood in the north – neighbors were coming out to meet one another, learning how to help make their community a safer place, and having a good time, during the 2010 National Night Out against Crime (NNO) on August 3.

Follow us our tour, and see neighbors getting together at the ten events we were privileged to visit this year …

Arbor Glenn Apartments
SE 145^th Avenue

Kimberly Smith, manager of the newly reopened Arbor Glenn Apartments welcomes all to their NNO event.

“We are celebrating National Night Out here today,” welcomed Kimberly Smith, the manager of Arbor Glenn Apartments. “We’re also celebrating our four-year renovation project today.”

Toby Eidem and Jason Specht of “Teem Green BBQ” sauce up their hot, delicious meats.

After games, safety exhibits, visiting police officers – and the great barbecue dinner – everyone chills out on the lawn to soak in the late afternoon sun.

The brisket and pulled pork served at this NNO event was far better than traditional cookout food, everyone agreed. Police officers who stopped at several different locations said that this was the most delicious food they’d ever had at such an event.

“We are also celebrating our partnership,” Smith said. “We’re celebrating our partnership with East Portland Crime Prevention team and the Portland Police Bureau to make Arbor Glenn a safe, great place to live.”

Lents Neighborhood Association
Lents Park ~ SE 92nd Avenue

Longtime Lents neighborhood supporters Judy and John Welch get ready to scoop ice cream for their annual “social”.

We’ve held an Ice Cream Social for at least 15 years,” said Judy Welch, as we met up with the Lents Neighborhood NNO party. “We started out having one at Pilgrim Lutheran Church, then moved it to this park years ago.”

The best thing is about the annual event, Welch said, is getting neighbors to get together. “Plus it helps neighbors realize that there are agencies here to help them with crime and neighborhood livability issues.”

Sarah Coates Huggins, a project manager with Portland Parks & Recreation, drums up interest in participating in the Lents Park Master Plan.

“That’s the basic thing about National Night Out,” Welch concluded. “It’s to meet other neighbors, visit with the police and fire department, and to know that there is help available when you need it.”

Classique Floors
14107 SE Stark Street

Judith Huck, owner of Classique Floors, is clearly having a great time at the NNO party she’s hosting, at her family-owned store in the Hazelwood Neighborhood.

For the first time ever, a well-respected family business in outer East Portland – Classique Floors – hosted a NNO event on a store’s parking lot and lawn.

“We’ve invited our customers to come by,” Huck said, “but, we decided to host a party so we can meet our neighbors who live right here, near our business.”

The freshly-grilled gourmet hamburgers and hot dogs smelled great, and the guests at the Classique Floors NNO event said they were happy to eat the delicious food while talking with one another.

Huck just couldn’t stop grinning. “This is fun; it really is! We’ve been in the neighborhood in this building for five years, but here, almost on the same block in the neighborhood, for 33 years.”

Classique Floors’ Dave Dickson sure looks happy, as he makes up his dinner plate.

But, it’s not only her family business that’s been located here in the neighborhood. “I grew up right here, on this block, on the other side of East Burnside Street, and would ride my Stingray bike down to the corner store for a treat – the same building we’ve renovated for Classique Floors.”

Lifegate Baptist Church
208 SE 148th Avenue

Because little Pippin Miller says he’s unclear about the game, volunteer Derek Dix shows him how to play it, at Lifegate Baptist Church in the Glenfair Neighborhood.

Celebrating their fourth National Night Out this year were the members of Lifegate Baptist Church.

They were hosting hot dog barbecue, open to all, and they also provided music and had games for the kids throughout the evening.

With prizes for the kids, and free raffle games for adults, Pastor Dan Brown says the church was trying to have something for everyone who stopped by their event.

“It’s an event to which our congregation really looks forward every year,” said Pastor Dan Brown. “A couple of years ago, one of the neighbors told us that this is one of the ‘bright spots’ of the year for them. To give even a little – and some much-needed hope – in the middle of a neighborhood that seems pretty dark and hopeless at times, feels really good.”

Glenfair Neighborhood Association
Glenfair Park ~ NE 154th Avenue and NE Couch Street

Glenfair Neighborhood Association’s Chair, and event organizer, Brenda McSweeney takes a moment out from hosting kids’ games introduce volunteer Doug Hiebenthal.

Again this year, the Glenfair Neighborhood Association partnered with Portland Parks & Recreation – to have a Movie in the Park showing (this year, of “Shorts”),  and a musical performance by The River City Band , as part of its NNO event.

From American Filipino Christian Church, shown here are Rosa Berry, Richie Stone, and Lina Vergeson serving delicious dishes, just right for a fun evening in the park.

Brenda McSweeney, the event’s organizer, said, “It’s great how it brings the community out. You get to meet your neighbors; it’s a good community effort. It helps people all get together and join in fun activities.”

Fun? You bet! With plenty of games, provided by the Glenfair School’s PTA – and the Burgerville Nomad on scene, selling fresh burgers – this looked like a great outdoor party.

Argay Neighborhood Association
Argay Park ~ NE 141st Avenue at NE Failing Street

NNO Volunteer Dianna Palmquist helps Argay Neighborhood’s NNO party coordinator April Courtney pass out free, top-quality Nestlé ice cream sandwiches.

At Argay Park, the annual NNO party tradition continued in grand style, thanks to the hard-working volunteers from the Argay Neighborhood Association.

“It’s great having a neighborhood all come out and enjoy the summer weather,” said April Courtney, as she grabbed another handful of ice cream treats to pass out – the perfect snack on a hot, summer’s eve. “It makes me feel good, to see everyone out, and being part of the community.”

Steve Voorhees, Market Master of the Saturday Parkrose Farmer Market, and event volunteer Troy Palmquist, Land-Use Chair at the Argay Neighborhood Association, clown around – as they decide which of them will get the very last ice cream sandwich at their NNO event!

A feature not seen at any other NNO event, but an annual tradition in Argay, is this display of explosive ordinance – like sticks of dynamite and hand grenades — brought by agents of the U.S. Alcohol Tobacco Firearms Bureau.

Parkrose Heights Association of Neighbors
Knott Park ~ NE 117th Avenue at NE Knott Street

Stephanie Viegas Dias, chair of the Parkrose Heights Association of Neighbors event gets ready for another raffle prize drawing.

With a little help from the East Portland Neighborhood Small Grant Program, the Parkrose Heights Neighborhood Party appeared to be the greatest NNO party in outer East Portland on August 3^rd.

These volunteers worked for months to line up two live bands, a hot dinner, lots of kids’ activities, appearances by representatives from Portland Police Bureau and Portland Fire & Rescue, face painting, free health screenings, and a visit from the ever-popular Reptile Man.

Who wants to get an up-close look at a very, very big snake?

The Reptile Man lets kids give a BIG hug to his albino boa constrictor, “Julie Squeezer”.

“It’s a lot of work to organize all this,” admitted Stephanie Viegas Dias, as she rushed the raffle drawing bin up to the main stage. But it’s so rewarding to see so many neighbors together, and having a good time.”

Personally, Viegas Dias told us, her favorite part is that “I get to reconnect with people I don’t get to see very often. It’s so satisfying to see everyone out and enjoying themselves together, here in our neighborhood park.”

A grilled hot dog dinner is served up by volunteers from the United Methodists Men’s Group.

Members of the Eric Christopher Band get ready to rock Knott Park.

In all, over the course of the evening, more than 500 Parkrose Heights neighbors came to the park to enjoy a fun, family evening.

Into the sunset ride Portland Police Bureau Mounted Patrol Sgt. Franz Schoening on Jeager, and Officer Gregg Mack on his own steed, Tabor.

Parkrose Heights
NE 119th Avenue and NE Thompson Street

Opting for a more intimate gathering in Parkrose Heights is this group of neighbors.

Showing that an official NNO event doesn’t have to be gigantic to be fun, we stopped by this small park to find a dessert and ice cream social in progress.

“We’re using this event to update our Neighborhood Watch program, and let people know what’s going on in our neighborhood,” said organizer Ann Croze. “It’s all about being together, and having some fun.”

Mill Park Neighborhood Association
Street party on SE 113th Avenue and SE Yamhill Street

Todd Baker flashes us his famous smile, as he gets ready to serve up another premium grilled hot dog in at the Mill Park street party.

Not many neighborhoods opt for street parties these days, but it’s an annual tradition in the Mill Park neighborhood.

Angelica and Todd Baker bring out their grill, organize the neighbors to bring the trimmings, and all have a great time. “Here behind my grill, it’s my ‘safety zone’, where I can cook and watch all the fun,” Todd said, smiling broadly, as he typically does.

“We’ve served 160 hot dogs so far,” Baker continued, “and have had about a hundred people here at our street party.  It’s outstanding!”

Kids romp and play, as their parents chat, at the Mill Park Street Party.

“So far, I’ve met three new neighbors tonight,” Baker added. “They’ve all moved into the neighborhood since our last NNO Street Party. And, I met another neighbor who’s lived here for seven years – and got to meet them for the first time tonight. It’s a good thing to get to know one another.”

Sadly, we missed getting the names of these nice Mill Park neighbors who are talking with Portland Fire & Rescue Battalion Chief Craig Funk.

Hazelwood Neighborhood Fair
Portland Adventist Academy ~ 1500 SE 96th Avenue

At the Hazelwood Neighborhood Fair hosted by Portland Adventist Academy, Principal Gale Crosby, event coordinator Liesl Vistaunet, and PAF Sophomore Anthony Savage all enjoy a slice of watermelon.

As the rosy glow of the setting sun illuminated our way, the last stop on our NNO adventure this year was at Portland Adventist Academy, for the Hazelwood Neighborhood Fair.

“We all live busy lives,” observed the school’s Principal, Gale Crosby. This event provides a way for people to slow down for an evening, to get to know their neighbors, and to have some good family fun.”

One of 11 volunteers from the Mall 205 TARGET store, Mykel Presler, did a great face painting job on this tickled-looking youngster, Isaac Johnson.

Portland Police Bureau K9 Officer Troy Grundmeyer, and dog Ace, a three-year-old German Shepherd, made new friends in the neighborhood.

Portland Adventist Hospital, the school, area churches, and representatives from the Hazelwood Neighborhood Association and the East Portland Neighborhood Office came by to present health and safety information. Serenading at the event was Jack Mahoney’s ever-entertaining Plus Five Trio. And, there were plenty of watermelon, popcorn, and sno-cones for all to enjoy.

Even as the sun sets on another year’s National Night Out, kids still enjoyed playing in the Bounce Castle at the Hazelwood Neighborhood Fair.

“When neighbors come together, it builds camaraderie, increases trust, strengthens the family, and helps create a real sense of community spirit that we often overlook while living our busy lives,” Crosby observed. “An event like this helps restore and refresh our community.”

One more to go …
Next week, stop by here and see the National Night Out event presented by the Powellhurst-Gilbert Neighborhood that took place two days later, on August 5. It’s pretty cool – they also dedicated a newly-completed City park, too!

> On our front page: Sgt. Tony Passadore makes new friends as he hands out “Honorary Police” badges at the Argay Neighborhood NNO Picnic.

© 2010 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

They really did it! If you’ve wondered about the giant acupuncture needle stuck into the roadside at SE 122nd Avenue and SE Reedway Street, here’s the story behind this unusual art installation …

Portland Acupuncture Project volunteers put finishing touches on the giant needle they’re about to stick into the right-of-way on the west side of SE 122^nd Avenue, just south of SE Reedway Street.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
So far, the sight of a huge – actually, gigantic – acupuncture needle stuck into the ground on SE 122^nd Avenue near the crossing of the Springwater Trail hasn’t caused any auto accidents as drivers pass by, in the Powellhurst-Gilbert neighborhood.

In fact, the whole idea of the Portland Acupuncture Project is to help “heal” our community – according to the artist behind the project, Adam Kuby, who has “treated” several other points within the City of Portland.

Artist Adam Kuby takes a moment with Mark White, President of the Powellhurst-Gilbert Neighborhood Association, just before the giant needle is hoisted into place.

Asked how it he conceived the idea, Kuby paused from reading the needle to be planted, and told us about it. “I just started to think about the city, and how it is so much like a body. There are a lot of parallels; the complex interdependent systems that make up the city are analogous to those found in the human body.”

Using the metaphor of acupuncture, the idea, Kuby related, is to bring attention to points on “City’s body” – and connecting all of those points.

“Maybe, I thought, we’d enable to people to see the City as one interconnected whole,” Kuby explained. “So, this project explores the interface between art, regional planning, traditional Chinese medicine, and the health of a city.”

With many volunteers pulling on its hoisting lines, the gigantic acupuncture needle rises into the air.

Point called ‘Pending Promise’
Each of the acupuncture needle installations has a name, suggested by neighborhood folks, Kuby explained. “We ask people to suggest a name indicative of the area, or its needs.”

Working with a group of volunteers, including Powellhurst-Gilbert Neighborhood’s president, Mark White, this spot was dedicated with the name “Pending Promise”.

“It seems appropriate,” White said as he watched the needle being stood on end.

Kristin Calhoun, Public Art manger for RAAC, shows the sign that will be planted next to explain the project and its purpose.

A sign posted near the needle explains:

“Like much of East Portland, the Powellhurst-Gilbert neighborhood has been promised greater inclusion in the City of Portland – better services and infrastructure (such as sidewalks and crosswalks) that most neighborhoods take for granted. If the goal is equal opportunity for all Portlanders, then fulfilling these basic needs is a good place to start.”

Trying to help the Portland Plan, artist says
Including this one, eight of these needles have been placed around the City, bringing attention to the some of Portland’s most challenging problems, its greatest assets, and its places with enormous potential, Kuby explained. “It will stay here for about two months; through the end of September.”

The project, funded by the Regional Arts and Culture Council, the Northwest Health Foundation, and private donations, is intended to coincide with a series of public workshops to help steer The Portland Plan, Kuby added pointedly.

> For more information, see the Portland Acupuncture Project’s official website: CLICK HERE.

Compare the height of the needle with the tree beside it, and the stop sign on the corner! Volunteers steady the needle, as it this corner of outer East Portland gets its acupuncture treatment.

© 2010 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

If you’re unaware why SE Ramona Street is important to the Lents Neighborhood, find out why this snippet of a street serves as a gateway to outer East Portland …

Longtime Lents Neighborhood resident and booster Judy Welch sits with the organizer of this year’s Ramona Street Fair, Jalene Braun.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Even though the outer East Portland mid-July Sunday Parkways bicycle event – originally scheduled to include their event – passed them by, organizers and supporters of the 2010 Ramona Street Fair said they’re pleased with the results.

“It was worth the work, definitely,” said event chair Jalene Braun.

“It’s important to me to get the neighborhood out to meet, and ‘just be’, with one another,” Braun told us at this, the second annual event. “It’s great to see people walking around. And, it helps provide foot traffic to Lents Town Center; we put on this event to also help businesses here in our area.”

Lents Neighborhood Association Chair Nick Christensen helps out as a guide, at the Ramona Street Fair.

Says Ramona Street is a gateway to Lents
The short segment of SE Ramona Street – a block north of SE Foster Road, and tucked in between SE 92^nd Avenue and the Lents MAX Light Rail station stairway – is important to the neighborhood, because it serves as a “gateway to Lents”, observed Lents Neighborhood Association Chair Nick Christensen.

“This year’s event is spectacular, in terms of bringing ‘new faces’ to the neighborhood,” Christensen said. “Some people have negative, lingering perceptions about Lents. The only way to alter those perceptions is to bring them into our area, and see for themselves how wonderful, diverse, and friendly this part of town really is.”

Even though he works some distance away, Christensen said he chose the Lents neighborhood for his home because it was affordable.

“But having the MAX Green line here figured into the decision – I ride it to work,” Christensen explained. “Other attractions are that Lents Town Center is being revitalized and has a lot of opportunity; watching the neighborhood develop and grow is really important to me. And, I appreciate the ‘do-it-yourself ethic’ one finds here.”

The band Sons of Soil rocked out toe-tapping reggae music sounds. They were provided by event sponsor Kickdown Records.

Summing up the event, Christensen gave kudos to its organizer, Jalene Braun. “She and the volunteers are providing a great service to Lents.

“In addition to being a fun, family-oriented event, this is giving people a good reason to come out and explore Lents.  It’s really worth the effort, as an outreach.”

Fair exhibitor, Cassandra Mathieson of Cadaverous Lovely, adds her own special touch of color and class to the event.

About 30 vendors lined SE Ramona Street during the fair. Visitors remarked that the food was as good as the selection was wide – ranging from the full-size catering van brought by Coyote Catering (which also provided chairs and tables for seating), to Pyro Pizza and Lents’ own Ararat Bakery.

Judging by its success, we expect to see the Ramona Street Fair return next summer! Watch our Community Calendar for the date.

© 2010 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

UPDATED! Find out why hundreds of folks are flocking to Hazelwood Neighborhood’s Ventura Park, to enjoy these late-summer open-air concerts …

Country music singer-songwriter Joni Harms and the Harms Way Band perform, kicking off the 2010 Ventura Park Concert Series.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
As they say in show-biz, it looks as if the Ventura Park Concert Series “has legs” – because it’s coming back to the Hazelwood Neighborhood for it’s third season.

At their first of three weekly, Wednesday concerts on August 11, the event chair, Linda Robinson said their committee was excited that the series has expanded from two, to three, weekly performances.

“It’s wonderful to have these concerts here,” Robinson enthused. “They provide an amenity for our area that crosses cultural, age and economic lines. And, in addition to giving people something positive to do on a beautiful summer evening, we see this as community-building.”

Having concerts, played by top-notch musicians and presented without cost, is important, Robinson added, especially in these times economic uncertainty. “Many people may not be able to afford good entertainment outside the home; we’re providing it.”

Ventura Park fills with neighbors as the sweet sounds of music fills the park.

Portland Police Bureau Cadets Ashlee Land, Elizabeth Vann, Jose Perez and Jared Moore help out at the Ventura Park Concerts.

In addition to Hazelwood Neighborhood’s chair, Arlene Kimura, the organizers got a real hand from the Portland Police Bureau Cadets. “These four young people helped us set up, and provide an influence that helps keep things orderly and upbeat,” Robinson commended. “And, they’ll also help out by ‘passing the hat’ to take up a collection for people who wish to contribute to help defray the cost of the concert.”

(From our front page) With Joni Harms’ polished presentation, it’s no wonder she was named “Female Vocalist of the Year” by the Western Music Association and has been a multiple winner of Academy of Western Artists Awards, including Entertainer of the Year

In all, about 350 people gathered on the lush, green lawn to enjoy the original country music of Joni Harms and the Harms Way Band. As much a story teller as song writer and performer, the personable Harms helped audience members connect with her music by telling briefly about each song’s inspiration.

Judging by the audience response, Harms performance was well received.

Making festive paper party hats for kids – of all ages – at the concert is Amanda Wiese with East Portland Community Center, Portland Parks & Recreation.

Concert rock violinist Aaron Meyer shows that he’s already a polished showman as he, and his band, entertain at the August 18 concert at Ventura Park.

One more concert to come on August 25
Next Wednesday night, on August 25, enjoy an evening of Latin and salsa music with the “tropical dance party” brought to the park by Conjunto Alegre.

Pack a picnic dinner, or purchase food from the Burgerville Nomad or Portland Ice Cream Company.

Come join your outer East Portland neighbors at Ventura Park for the last concert of the season on August 25!

Sponsors of the 2010 Ventura Park Concert Series are Burgerville, Aloft Hotel, MHCC Student Outreach, Postal Place, Adventist Health/Ventura Park, Gateway Christian School, Gilbert Brothers, Classique Floors, Gateway Sports Medicine, Cooley Partners, Oregon Cultural Trust, Portland City Commissioner Amanda Fritz, Hazelwood Neighborhood Association, East Portland Community Center … and music lovers who contribute money to help defray expenses at each concert.

Ventura Park is at SE 114th Ave. along SE Stark Street. For more information, see their official Facebook page: CLICK HERE.

The way the park is filling up this year, come early to experience great, live music here in outer East Portland.

© 2010 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

See why, by all measures, this event has matured into an outstanding event, attracting visitors to outer East Portland from all over the metro area, in this lavishly photo-illustrated story …

Tom Barnes, chair of Powellhurst-Gilbert Neighborhood Association’s Public Safety Committee, welcomes visitors to their association’s booth at the 2010 East Portland Exposition.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
What started out as an idea in the back of an outer East Portland neighbor’s mind – a street fair for residents of the Powellhurst-Gilbert Neighborhood – has grown, in its second season, into a substantial, area-wide summertime event called the “East Portland Exposition” (EPO XPO).

Mark White, President of the Powellhurst-Gilbert Neighborhood Association – and the 2009 Spirit of Portland award-winner – agreed that this two-day fair is a lot of work.

At the East Portland Neighborhood Office exhibit, Portland City Commissioner Dan Saltzman greets Arlene Kimura, Chair of the Hazelwood Neighborhood Association; Tom Lewis, Chair of the Centennial Community Association; Alesia Reese, Chair of the Woodland Park Neighborhood Association; and Richard Bixby, EPNO’s Executive Director.

Street party grows into regional fair
“But this is so much worth the effort,” White exclaimed at the event. “I drive by Ed Benedict Park, here on SE Powell Boulevard, almost every day, and thought it would be the perfect place for an event like this. It’s the right size, it’s close to the Powell Boulevard MAX Park and Ride, and there are a couple of schools nearby with lots of parking spaces.”

As time went on, White said, he realized that a more sizeable event would benefit all of the outer East Portland neighborhoods, by attracting people into the area. “It kind of got morphed into ‘East Portland Exposition’ when we planned our event last year.”

A steady stream of neighbors check in at the Portland Transportation Bureau’s booth, to learn more about the “Outer Powell Boulevard Conceptual Design Plan”.

East Portland Action Plan Advocate Lore Wintergreen listens to the concerns of a neighbor who is visiting the fair.

Learning from their first event last summer, White redesigned the 2010 EPO XPO, making it more compact, and adding more entertainment and events.

“This year, we featured 91 exhibitors, ranging from the Midway Business Association to governmental agencies, non-profit organizations, and medical providers,” White noted. “And that doesn’t include the food vendors.”

EPO XPO organizer Mark White pauses for a moment with Ashley Blake and Julia Doty, of Northwest Housing Alternatives, who enhanced this year’s expo by staging a Multicultural Share Fair within the event.

Multicultural Share Fair featured
A new feature at this year’s EPO XPO was called the Multicultural Share Fair. Within an area of the festival, there were five “cultural villages” – a Latin American village, a Russian village, a Native American village, a Haitian village, and a Middle Eastern village.

“Our organization, Northwest Housing Alternatives – a nonprofit affordable housing organization – was awarded an East Portland Neighborhood Small Grant to stage a Multicultural Share Fair this summer,” said Ashley Blake. “But, when we learned more about the East Portland Exposition, we thought instead it might be a nice collaboration.”

Melissa Schachner, a Little Shell Chippewa, says she’s representing the non-profit Bow & Arrow Culture Club, as she shows visitors how to make a “Family Talking Stick” n the Native American Village within the Multicultural Share Fair at EPO XPO.

Mr. White was all smiles as he commented, “I’ve been so incredibly impressed with the work that they’ve done. What they’ve created goes far beyond my expectations. This addition to our event is important, because our community is made up of people who are ‘all colors of the rainbow’. The Multicultural Share Fair honors and celebrates outer East Portland’s wonderful ethnic diversity.”

Attendance estimated at 10,000 visitors
During the Expo, we asked White how he felt about this year’s attendance. “I’m very pleased with the people we’ve had visiting us here this year; yes, oh my gosh, yes!”

Portland City Commissioner Amanda Fritz is one of the many visitors to this year’s EPO XPO.

After the event, White told us that, due to the free and open admission policy at the Expo, it was difficult to gauge the exact attendance. “Our volunteers agree that we had between 7,500 and 10,000 visitors during our two-day event. We were so pleased that many bicyclists who were participating in Sunday Bikeways stopped by to visit.”

Add to this the estimated 2,500 folks who dropped by the fair before each evening’s Portland Parks & Recreation “Movie in the Park” showing, “It makes us pretty comfortable with that 10,000 figure,” concluded White.

Taking a turn helping out at the “bounce house”, Matt Parker is one of dozens of volunteers who helped make this year’s event run smoothly.

One thing White wanted us to point out is that he didn’t run the event by himself. “I’m indebted to all of the volunteers who helped so much, before, during, and after this year’s EPO XPO. More than two dozen on-site volunteers – from those who picked up trash, to others who operated our kids’ attractions – they helped make this a real success.”

Expo to return in 2011
Just days after this year’s event ended, White said he’s started working on the 2011 edition. “I’m already writing grant applications. And, I’m looking forward to seeing this event continue to grow.”

2010 East Portland Exposition
Photo Album

Singer/songwriter Christian Burghardt and his band get ready to play a set, on the main entertainment stage.

Brandon Huala and Sarah Moody enjoy a good romp in the Bounce House.

Members of the Taoist Tai Chi Society demonstrate their Taoist Tai Chi™ taijiquan, that they say is a low-impact exercise designed to enhance health.

In the Oregon Lions Sight and Hearing Foundation Mobile Testing Facility, Brenda Anderson checks this lad’s eyesight.

Adventist Health medical assistant Evan Mitchell takes Bonnie Bettencourt’s blood pressure in the cool comfort of their mobile health screening unit.

Back in the play area, big brother Alec Rasmussen and takes his little sister, Sydney, for an exciting ride down the Really Big Slide.

Bob Garcia and Alan Bates from Portland American Legion Post #1 are grilling hot burgers and hot dogs for hungry EPO XPO visitors.

Here, representing the Midway Business Association, is member Terrie Kay Casey with TK Embroidery.

Entertaining with their funk-jazz-rock infusion style of music is the band, Roads Less Traveled.

Demonstrating the art of flower arranging is Phyllis Danielson, lead instructor with the Ohara School of Ikebana.

© 2010 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

While it could be some time before it comes to fruition, see why folks in the Hazelwood Neighborhood came to the vacant ‘JJ North’s lot’ to express their hopes and dreams for a real city park to call their own …

Hazelwood neighbors and Gateway area business people look over proposed designs for the proposed Gateway Redevelopment and Neighborhood Park Project at an open-air open house held at the site on NE Halsey Avenue.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
City blocks of land in the Gateway Urban Renewal District – on which JJ North’s Grand Buffet once stood at 10520 NE Halsey, as well as the old bowling alley/bingo hall south of it – have stood vacant for well over a year now.

But, according to Portland Development Commission (PDC) officials, part of that property may someday be turned into a multi-use City Park.

“The project is named the Gateway Redevelopment and Neighborhood Park Project,” PDC’s senior project manager, Justin Douglas, told us in late June at an open-air open house held on the property.

The PDC’s Justin Douglas listens to neighbor Ronald Trogman express his hopes for park development. “I’ve lived in the area for 30 years,” Trogman says. “I’ve been looking at this eyesore mess for many years; I hope something attractive will be built here that improves our community.”

“What’s planned here are a three-acre park, and an acre of [commercial and/or residential] development, here in the middle of the Gateway District,” Douglas continued. “I’m working on this project with Kip Roddin from Portland Parks & Recreation, because Gateway is a parks-deficient area. There are not any parks in the Gateway Regional Center Urban Renewal Area. Acquiring land for a park here has been a priority for the City for a long time.”

Douglas said the PDC purchased the land at the end of 2008. “We saw a remarkable opportunity both to put in a park for the neighborhood, and also to bring in some commercial redevelopment we feel is key, here along NE Halsey Street. We don’t know what the redevelopment will be, right now, but we hope it is something that brings jobs, activity, and new life to the Gateway community.”

At this, their first of three planned open houses over the course of a year, Douglas said they wanted people to be on-site to “get a feel for what it’s like”, as they begin to make plans.

Hazelwood Neighborhood Association’s President, Arlene Kimura, says she hopes for an actual developed park – not just another vacant field.

Arlene Kimura, Hazelwood Neighborhood Association’s President, bemoaned the lack of developed parks in the area. “The parks we have are just empty lots with dirt and grass; not suitable for events and recreation. We’re hoping they’ll develop this land as a park that will become a good place recreation, and become an event venue.”

About the plans put forward, Kimura said she she’s “pleasantly surprised” at what is being proposed. “We’d like the park to be visible from NE Halsey Street. We’re hoping that, with input from the community, we’ll have park amenities that will attract, in particular, families with young kids. Maybe someday we can have music in the Gateway Park.”

Adjoining neighborhood chair presents wish list
Alicia Reece, Chair of the Woodland Park Neighborhood Association – it’s directly to the west of Hazelwood – said she’s hopeful the park will be developed thoughtfully.

“This would be the first City park within walking distance of our neighborhood,” Reese pointed out. “That’s why we’re very excited about this idea, and can hardly wait for the park to be developed.”

We asked Reece about the feedback she was leaving for the project managers. “One thing that I haven’t seen – I would love to have electricity there, so we would be able to host music and other community events at the park. Also, lighting will provide a little bit of security in the park. I’d like to see a gazebo, or an area for tables and tents.”

About the commercial development, Reece opined, “I would like to see a coffee shop and a bookstore.”

Bailey, Rebekah, Carol, and Hannah enjoy some ice cream, complements of the PDC at the open house, while filling in their surveys.

Unfunded project makes completion timeline uncertain
“Now that the restaurant and old bingo/bowling alley have been taken down,” Douglas commented, “it will be turned into a big grassy area. We will be done with design work by November or December; it’ll be based on a design that the community supports and wants to see built.”

One sticking point, Douglas conceded, is money. “We still have to figure out how we’re going to pay for it. The Parks Bureau and PDC do not currently have funding to actually build this. So, that is our next hurdle. Once we have a plan for the park, it’ll really help set the wheels in motion to get the funding for it.”

Look for the next open houses to be in September, and then in November – we’ll post them in our Community Calendar when we get word.

Plot of Dreams: Neighbors hope that part of this vacant lot in Gateway will be developed into a fully-featured City park – sooner, rather than later.

© 2010 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Find out what happened, this week, that gives hope to Lents Neighborhood freshmen who were told they’d have to start high school at Franklin or perhaps Madison …

Portland Public Schools Superintendent Carole Smith says the Marshall Campus will accept freshmen in September – and the redistricting talks will then begin again.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Folks in the Lents Neighborhood were surprised to learn that Portland Public Schools did an “about face” about shutting out incoming freshmen from the Marshall Campus.

And, it now looks as if Superintendent Carole Smith hasn’t ruled out talks with the David Douglas School District about how the two districts may cooperate – perhaps including divvying up programs for outer East Portland students.

“Last night, the Superintendent and School Board announced that they’re suspending the vote on the big structural pieces of the redesign plan,” PPS PIO Matthew Shelby told us on June 22. “No votes on school closures or boundary changes will be taken until fall.”

On June 21, Superintendent Smith explained after the board meeting, “We will pursue conversations with David Douglas and other partners about the options for developing joint programs on the Marshall Campus, which could expand program access for Marshall neighborhood students. While we pursue these conversations, we will continue to engage the teams of educators that are developing new focus school proposals for the Marshall Campus. These steps are complementary, not contradictory, and I look forward to reporting on the outcome of these steps in the fall, as well.”

Smith continued, “In the meantime, I also recommend that the current Marshall small schools accept their ninth-grade classes for next year, while keeping slots available at Cleveland, Franklin, and Madison for the students who indicated that they want to attend these schools.”

Superintendent Smith will keep working to make “programmatic changes” to high school programs during the summer.

‘Program changes’ to continue
“Larger structural changes, such as boundary changes and school closings, require a vote of the Board,” Shelby explained. “But, programmatic changes are within her preview to make. Two specific items include common scheduling, and establishing Academic Priority Zones.” He referred us to Superintendent Smith’s published information that defines these changes:

• Common schedule across our high schools – “To provide more flexible learning opportunities for students, to make more effective and efficient use of our staff, and to let students take advantage of programs located at campuses beyond their home school.”
• Establishing Academic Priority Zones – “To better prepare students at our lowest performing schools for success in high school, by concentrating resources where they are needed most, including our most effective teachers and principals, effective interventions and supports, and programs to promote greater parent involvement.”

Additionally, Shelby said the Superintendent’s establishing frameworks for more intentional and more strategically-aligned partnerships with Portland Community College and Portland State University – and industry partners and local employers are also priority items on which she is working.

Says she sees value in the ‘redesign’ process
“From the outset, it was clear that our joint effort to improve the High School System could become acutely contentious,” conceded Smith. “I’m glad we have an opportunity for greater dialogue, innovative collaboration, and partnership development on the most difficult issues. I expect that next fall, we may find ourselves surprised at the results.”

Lents Neighborhood Association’s president, Nick Christensen, presiding at their meeting on June 22, says he’s not ready to “run a victory lap” after hearing about this week’s announcements.

Lents neighbors wait and see
At the Lents Neighborhood Association meeting on June 22, its President Nick Christensen said that the initial reports sound good.

“But until I hear something concrete from Portland Public Schools, I’m hesitant to say this is good news for East Portland, other than that it is giving us more time to state our case,” Christensen said. “Our case is that students of the eastside need to go to high school close to home – in a neighborhood, comprehensive school – and taking that away from them not only jeopardizes their educational future, but the community’s vitality, as well.”

Christensen added that he is attempting to set up a meeting with Superintendent Smith.

© 2010 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News.

Is it really fair that, for years, this nondescript building has been bashed as being a ‘legalized drug house, and ‘the source of problems on the MAX Light Rail line at NE 162nd Avenue’?  Find out the amazing truth about what goes on behind these usually-closed doors, right here …

Yes, they do dispense a powerful pharmaceutical in this building at E. Burnside Street and NE 162^nd Avenue. But, that’s not all that goes on inside.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
The gray building E. Burnside Street and NE 162^nd Avenue has been vilified for years, because drug addicts do come and go throughout the day.

Charges have been made that associate it with the many and varied criminal problems that occur in this section of the high-density Glenfair Neighborhood.

Open doors dispel myths
“We’re trying to lift the veil and dispel any mysteries about what we do here,” explained Pat Gold, the clinic director for Allied Health Services East at 16141 E. Burnside Street – at their first-ever open house, on May 19.

“We are a drug treatment program for people whose primary addiction is to opiates,” Gold told us. “But because of federal confidentiality regulations, we can’t have any visitors while our patients are here, to protect their confidentiality.”

Gold said that, although the clinic has been operating since 1999 in one form or another, they started meeting with neighbors and officials only last summer. “We’ve been working with Portland and Gresham police, Crime Prevention Specialists, and neighborhood associations to get to know one another better, and to talk about what we can do, as a group, to reduce crime in the vicinity of the clinic. It certainly is NOT to our benefit, to have crime around the clinic.”

Now a 16-year employee, Valerie Carr, LPN, illustrates how their locked, secure system dispenses methadone, and tracks the patients.

More than a ‘methadone parlor’
“The clinic provides medication-assisted treatment to about 400 patients a month,” Gold stated. The medication that assists the treatment is methadone, prescribed by medical director, Dr. Matilda Mingus. It allows the patients to stabilize, so they’re not in withdrawal when they stop using opiates.”

The bulk of their patients come in using heroin. “Many also come with addiction to pharmaceuticals like hydrocodone or OxyContin. The drug OxyContin has been in the news lately.

“The methadone reduces the craving for opiates,” explained Gold. “It allows their minds to clear up, so they can actually participate in treatment which includes group and individual counseling, like any other drug counseling program.”

Treatment meets goals
The clinic measures its success by enumerating those who have kicked their habit, and those who continue to stay off illegal drugs.

“Our ‘outcomes goal’ for this clinic is that 70% of the patients will be opiates-free after 60 days in treatment,” their directory states. “And that 70% will be completely drug-free at the end of a year. We normally meet those goals. When you consider that most of our patients have been using [drugs] for a long period of time, the fact they can get completely drug-free, and stable, is a very positive thing.”

Security Manager John Marinez, welcomes guests to their clinic at the open house – along with Kim Sanderson, Regional Director of CRC Health, and Pat Gold, Clinic Director of Allied Health Services East.

Beyond kicking the habit
As part of their program, Gold related, counselors refer patients to other community resources to help them get their lives back together.

“It could be a mental-health referral; it could be for housing. Most of them need jobs. We refer them to jobs-ready organizations that help them find employment. Our goal is not only to have them be drug-free, but also stable in the community, with housing, an income, and continuing support.”

More than just doling out methadone, the goal of this clinic is to help people who walk through these doors regain a productive role in society.

Efforts praised by neighbors, officials
“I learned quite a lot here today,” commented Tom Lewis, the Vice Chair of the Centennial Community Association.

“I learned how great the need is. After seeing this facility, and meeting these people that work here, it changes how you think about what’s going on behind the brick façade of this building,” Lewis said. “It’s not helpful when crime happens just outside their door [near the MAX Station], and they get blamed.”

Sergeant Marvin Madtson of the Gresham Police Department said he’s pleased at how responsive the management of the clinic has been to suggestions.

“They’ve installed chain-link fencing around the back lot, put in a gate, and installed security lighting,” declared Madtson. “This has reduced many of the problems we had, of people loitering after hours in the parking lot, and conducting criminal activity.”

Gold smiled when she heard the positive comments. “These improvements are part of a ‘Good Neighbor Agreement’ we’ve signed. Working with the neighborhood associations led us to hold an open house, so more people can come and get to know us. It’s been a very positive experience.”

For more information on this clinic, see their website: CLICK HERE.

© 2010 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Although their job is now done, find out why the members of the “PDX Airport Futures Planning Advisory Group” will continue to meet indefinitely – and, what this means to folks in outer East Portland

Sean Laughran, Senior Aviation Planner for Portland International Airport, and Alesia Reese, member of the PDX Airport Futures Planning Advisory Group, show a graphic which defines the long-range development plan for the airport.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Even though the main tasks for which the “PDX Airport Futures Planning Advisory Group” was originally assembled are concluding, it appears that many of its members will continue to meet into the future.

> For background on this project, see our story from 2009: CLICK HERE.

In the Parkrose High School’s Community Room, on May 13, the public was invited to see and comment on the work done by the Advisory Group, which had been working to create a new long-range plan for Portland’s municipal airport. On display was their main work product, which included:

• Sustainability Goals;
• PDX Draft Master Plan;
• City’s Draft Land Use Plan for PDX;
• Noise Management;
• PDX Airport’s North Runway Extension; and,
• Ongoing Public Involvement Strategy.

Airport becomes a ‘planned district’
Sean Laughran, Senior Aviation Planner for Portland International Airport, described the process as collaborative venture that brought together business people, neighborhood representatives, the City of Portland, and the Port of Portland.

“The group was to look out to year 2035, and ask questions about how much we expect the airport to grow, and how that growth will be accommodated,” Laughran told us.

Of note, Laughran pointed out, is that the airport will be getting a new land use designation. “That means it won’t be a ‘conditional use’ anymore. We are now a planned district. A number of features go along with that, which will be of interest to the public.”

Jay Sugnet, Senior Planner with the Portland Bureau of Planning and Sustainability, discusses the project with Dan Dhruva.

A ‘three-year cruise’ ends
The Planning Advisory Group was first assembled in September 2007, Laughran said. “Many of these members have stayed with us over the last three years, to help realize a long-term vision for the airport. We are nearing a conclusion of that process. This summer, the plan will be presented to the Portland Planning Commission, Portland City Council, Port of Portland Commission, and eventually to the Federal Aviation Authority, for final approved.”

Laughran observed that the work is the contribution of 20 voting members and 10 ex-officio members, including representatives from both sides of the Columbia River, as well as three counties on the Oregon side, and members of other or interested groups. “I believe we’ve had more than 260 public meetings and events, throughout the process.”

Evaluated the past, looking toward the future
The group considered how past investments made in the airport over the last 20 years have paid dividends, Laughran said. “This includes the rehabilitation of the south runway; the development of the terminal building; the terminal expansion on the north and south sides; reconstruction of the front of the building, through the terminal access project and parking garage; and skybridge and tower.”

Looking forward, the “PDX Master Plan” identifies modest improvements to be made over the coming decade to provide sufficient capacity to meet all of projected needs through 2035. The approach taken by the group was to maximize the utility of the infrastructure already in place.

“People were very interested in the likelihood of a third runway, and the timing of when that third, parallel runway would be constructed,” Laughran pointed out. “The answer is, we see that project to be very far in the distance – way beyond the planning horizon of 2035.”

Patrick Metzger, representative for Central Northeast Neighbors on the planning advisory group, talks with Portland Bureau of Planning and Sustainability Environmental Planner Mindy Brooks.

Group morphs into Advisory Committee
Asked how she felt about the process coming to an end, group member Alesia Reese, a member of the Parkrose School Board, and chair of Woodland Park Neighborhood Association, responded, “It’s not coming to an end. It’s just beginning, and the exciting part is ahead of us. This is when we transition to an ongoing public involvement committee.”

Reese explained that there is a commitment to continue to participate in what is called the “PDX Community Advisory Committee”. “We’ll work, long-term, to engage people about the airport. I hope to represent the 13 neighborhoods of East Portland; and, other neighborhood coalitions will also be represented. This’ll be a new day for the Port of Portland, about which we’re very excited.”

Learn more
To follow the progress of the Master Plan, or learn more about – or perhaps to apply to participate in – the PDX Community Advisory Committee, check their website: CLICK HERE to open their home page. Or, call the Port of Portland at (503) 460-4143.

© 2010 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Take a look at the dumpsters, filled full of trash! You won’t believe how many TONS of trash were taken out of the neighborhoods – in this, another example of neighbors volunteering to do good, right in their own area …

Standing in front of just one of the many dumpsters they filled at the clean-up event are Andy Flick, a volunteer with Freedom foursquare Church; the organizer, Brenda McSweeney, Chair of Glenfair Neighborhood Association; and Scott Bradley, from Abundant Life Church.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Dismayed that an area-wide Neighborhood Clean-up event hadn’t been organized in this year outer East Portland, Brenda McSweeney, Chair of the Glenfair Neighborhood Association, stepped up and organized a May 15 event.

As cars, trucks, and vans pulled into the MAX Light Rail parking lot on SE 122^nd Avenue at E. Burnside Street, McSweeney told us, “I think it’s really necessary to give people an easy way to get rid of junk and debris around their homes. It makes for better, and cleaner, neighborhoods.”

Mike Vander Veen, AmeriCorps worker, and volunteer and Christopher Masciocchi, a volunteer with the Hazelwood Neighborhood Association,  carry an abandoned sofa to its resting place.

Another good reason for such an event is that it brings neighbors together, for the good of their community, McSweeney added.

Even though the cleanup was put together on short notice, just over 10 tons of debris and scrap metal – and three complete bicycles, which folks had fixed up for needy neighbors – were collected in the morning-long event, which was staffed by 41 volunteers.

Volunteer Jim Blatt, a volunteer from the Wilkes Community Group, helps sort trash at the clean-up.

© 2010 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Will the property north of Centennial Community Association park – now surrounded by a barbed-wire-topped chain link fence – actually become an oasis? Find out what neighbors, and City officials, are saying …

For the first time since it was fenced off, neighbors have had the opportunity to explore the barricaded property destined to become an expanded outer East Portland Park.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Hidden deep in the Centennial Community Association, at SE Main Street and 152nd Place, is a triangle-shaped public space called Parklane Park. There is a play area, a softball field, and picnic area – but that’s about it.

Along the north side of the property is a barbed-wire-topped chain link fence, with sturdy gates kept closed with thick chains and hefty locks. This large parcel of cordoned- off property – at least twice the size of the existing park –was supposed to become the “real” Parklane Park.

After dozens of meetings and hours of public input, Portland Parks & Recreation prepared a Master Plan for the park – a plan stalled by lack of funding. But, to keep the dream alive, neighborhood and parks advocates staged a unique event on May 6 they called “Behind the Gates”.

Neighbor Kathy Scheer, and Rick Larson of the Centennial School District, look at parts of the Parklane Park Master Plan.

Remembers the gravel pit
One neighbor who came out to the afternoon event, Kathy Sheer, said she moved there in December, 1960.

“At that time, it was a gravel pit,” Sheer recalled. “It was a dangerous thing to have in what was a relatively new neighborhood; a big open pit. We mothers and kids picketed the place until the owner fenced it off.”

Although somewhat skeptical of its development, Sheer said it was a “wonderful” plan. “You know, originally, was supposed to be a sunken garden. Now it’s really sunken, but it’s not a garden.”

Says will improve nearby school’s facility
Rick Larson, Director of Business Operation for the Centennial School District, said he was buoyed by the talks with the community association. “Instead of a fence, it will be open to the children who go to Harold Oliver Primary School, located just east of the property. By the way, we’re changing the name of the school next year to Parklane Elementary.”

Zari Santner, director of Portland Parks & Recreation, is welcomed to the “Behind the Gates” event by the Chair of the Centennial Community Association, Tom Lewis.

Effort is worthwhile, for children
Tom Lewis, Chair of the Centennial Community Association, told us he’s lived in the neighborhood since he was three years old. During the time Portland annexed east Multnomah County, and put in sanitary sewers, the pit as filled with gravel left over from the project. “The hole was mostly filled in, but they never put in the top soil.”

This public event was deemed important because it showed the Portland Parks Department is getting their “ducks in a row” to move ahead with improving long-vacant land. “It’s a chance to improve our community. It’s important because most of us have children growing up in the area. We want to keep Centennial a good family neighborhood.”

Bo Mevue, a volunteer who worked on the Parklane Park Master Plan committee, tells the history of the land, destined to someday become a park.

Park project provides historic information
A member of the volunteer Parklane Park Master Plan Committee, Bo Mevue, spoke briefly at the formal presentation, before the property tour began.

“One of the things that everybody talked about in our meetings was how the property changed, and changed so quickly,” Mevue told the group. “Some people remember when this land was an airport; others, when it became a quarry. People shared how they remembered swimming in that.

“People also talked about how the Centennial Neighborhood was named in honor of the centennial of the State of Oregon, and how this park would commemorate the State’s 150^th anniversary,” Mevue continued.

As changes came to the area, the park became the center of the neighborhood – along with the nearby schools. “It is, in fact, our civic center,” Mevue concluded. “It was great to hear people share the history of this area – and see how this could be something that gives our neighborhood a boost.”

Having erected a large canopy in case of rain, the group holds their formal meeting under it, and hears about plans for the park.

Parks director offers hope, but not promises
Zari Santner, director of Portland Parks & Recreation told us before the formal gathering that she was pleased to see so many people, ready to venture into the land beyond the “locked gates” and the fencing that keeps people out.

“The development of this park has the highest priority for us,” Santner stated. “And, even though we have delayed issuing the Parks bond – whenever we get funding, we will make sure that this project gets on the bond list.”

During the meeting, Santner told the folks there, “People saw this land as something of value. We didn’t have the money to buy it, and asked the Trust for Public Land to hold it until we could gather the money.”

For the first time, neighbors are able to hike “Behind the Gates”, in the property north of Parklane Park.

When the deal went through, Santner continued, it was the first time in many years that the City of Portland had purchased a large piece of property. “As you know the City was developing very fast, particularly on the Eastside and outer East Portland.”

However, Santner cautioned the group, “We don’t have money stashed away to build this park. But, I’m hoping that no later than five years from now, this will be a magnificent park.”

Portland Parks & Recreation East Zone Manager Doug Brenner points out features to be included in the expanded park – whenever the improvements are funded.

© 2010 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News