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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Contact information

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

© 2010 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

© 2010 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Find out what’s been learned so far, in trying to create a more ‘viable, sustainable, and healthy SE 122nd Avenue corridor’ – and how you can have your say, at the next meeting on February 23 …

City of Portland Bureau of Planning and Sustainability’s Barry Manning describes the scope of the project, at their last meeting in December.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Considering that it was just a couple of weeks before Christmas, and the thermometer had dipped into the teens, it was notable that about 40 people still came to the SE 122nd Avenue Pilot Project workshop, held on December 8 at Gilbert Heights Elementary School.

27 participants completed the survey about area concerns handed to them as they arrived. The survey included nine questions specific to the SE 122nd Avenue study.

> Note: to see a PDF file of the draft full report about this meeting, visit the City’s website: CLICK HERE.

“The SE 122nd Pilot Project is exploring ways to create a more viable, sustainable, and healthy SE 122nd Avenue corridor of the future,” is how Barry Manning, AICP, Senior Planner at City of Portland’s Bureau of Planning and Sustainability, explained the exercise. “The study focuses on the areas along and near SE 122nd Avenue, between SE Division Street and SE Foster Road.”

At the meeting, Manning presented information regarding existing conditions that he and his team had learned from neighborhood walks and group discussions, which had focused on existing and desired local shops and services, as well as how access and safety for pedestrians, bikes, and vehicles might be improved.

Workshop attendees listen as Barry Manning presents key demographic and lifestyle information gathered so far during this project.

Project consists of four topic areas:

1. Accessibility, Connections, Pedestrian Comfort and Safety: Key sidewalks, crossings, connections, transit service, and stops
2. Convenience and Availability of Services: Location and variety of retail and services, access to food and schools (20-minute neighborhood), jobs and employment opportunities
3. Infill Development and Design of new development: height, bulk, scale, intensity; site design features; location of new development: scale and intensity
4. Community Amenities and Livability: Parks, open areas, trails, trees, gathering places, special features

Then, a 4-H group based at ROSE Community Development’s Leander Court gave a narrated photo presentation, “Things important to us here”.

Table discussions provide retail shopping insight
The participants, joined by a facilitator, sat around tables and discussed the four topic areas.

“Information we found interesting about the ‘Accessibility, Connections, Pedestrian Comfort and Safety’ component,” Manning later told us, “was regarding how and where participants go to shop. It appears as if many of them frequent locations other than the immediate area, for their retail shopping.”

In particular, residents reported they’d traveled out of the area to purchase groceries at stores perceived to offer lower prices – and also traveled to higher-end specialty grocery stores, Manning noted. “We found many went to Clackamas Town Center, Gresham, or small-scale main-street areas for specialty retail and coffee shops.”

While these residents had traveled to “discretionary retail” locations, the participants nonetheless expressed strong support for the concept of “shopping local”, and wished for more such options the neighborhood.

This table is discussion is led by Bureau of Planning and Sustainability planner Julia Gisler.

Says poor connections hinder local travel
Regarding the “Convenience and Availability of Services” category, Manning said it was noteworthy that many didn’t do a lot of biking or walking in the area, saying “poor connections” hindered doing so.

“For example, some residents who live near the Springwater Corridor and used it recreationally, nonetheless drove to the trail because they felt local connections were unsafe,” Manning said. “There were also concerns about walking in areas without sidewalks. Some said they did some recreational walking; but not along 122nd Avenue.”

Many participants expressed the desire to use mass transit more often. But, actual TriMet riders confirmed observations made by the study team: Although Line 71 is one of the most often used, it provides infrequent service, resulting in long waits.

To study infill development on February 23
“At our next workshop session,” Manning stated, “we’ll be focusing on infill development issues; hopefully, touching on amenities and livability issues.”

Again, staff members will record information they’ve learned in this session. “Then, together with the Community Working Group, we’ll explore ways to address some of the issues during this spring. We expect to have draft recommendations out by late spring; and we expect our report to be out in July.”

On February 23, join your neighbors from 6:30 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. and provide your input. The workshop will be held at Ron Russell Middle School, 3955 SE 112th Avenue. For more information, contact the Bureau of Planning and Sustainability at (503) 823-7700, or visit their website: CLICK HERE.

The project team brings many highly visual displays to these workshops, to help attendees quickly grasp the concepts presented.

© 2010 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

You’ll be amazed to discover how many different government entities and groups are backing this effort to plant hundreds of trees along this 15-mile path this winter. Find out how you can join their next ‘plant party’ on February 20 …

All kinds of folks, from all over Portland, come together to plant trees and shrubs along the I-205 Multi-Use Path, just north of East Airport Way.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
There, about as far as one can go north along the I-205 Multi-Use Path – between East Airport Way and NE Marine Drive – more than fifty volunteers were planting trees and shrubs on January 9.

“This is the beginning of a three-year planting plan,” Logan Lauvray, Green Spaces Initiative Manager with Friends of Trees, told us…as we stood on the slope next to the path. “We’re going to plant trees along the 15-mile length of the path, south into Gladstone. Today we’re planting a total of 162 trees in this section.”

Lauvray pointed out that that the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) has been managing the greenery along the path simply through keeping it mowed.

“This is a great opportunity to add a wildlife habitat,” Lauvray said. “And, it’s a way to protect some in neighborhoods along I-205 from the impacts of traffic – noise and pollution – coming off our highway. ODOT has been a great partner with us, figuring out planting plans and letting us do this.”

Taking a break from their planting efforts are Elizabeth Craig, Community Affairs Coordinator with ODOT; Shelli Romero, the Region One ODOT community affairs manager; Logan Lauvray, Green Spaces Initiative Manager with Friends of Trees; and Betsy Lattig, a Friends of Trees Green Space Initiative specialist.

This season, Lauvray explained, they’ll plant about 1,200 trees; over the three-year program, he estimates as many as 3,000 trees and shrubs will be planted.

“This project is supported, in large part, from a grant from Metro’s ‘Nature in the Neighborhood’ Grants Program. It’s also being supported by the East Multnomah Soil & Water Conservation District, and a number of private and corporate sponsors,” Lauvray said.

Says ODOT is “more than pavement”
Asked why ODOT is getting involved with this “greening” project, Community Affairs Coordinator Elizabeth Craig replied, “A lot of people think of ODOT as strictly a highway agency. In fact we’re a transportation agency, and we invest in all modes of transportation – whether it be roads, bicycle corridors, pedestrian corridors – this is one of many projects we’re investing in to improve multimodal transportation.”

Craig added that the agency plans to use this project as a model for other right-of-way “greening” projects, statewide. “It marks a different way of thinking about what ODOT can do with their transportation corridors.”

Powellhurst-Gilbert’s Jim Chasse says he’s enthusiastic about the “greening of the Multi-use Path”.

Neighbors, from far and wide, pitch in
Jim Chasse, a board member at the Powellhurst-Gilbert Neighborhood Association, and also actively involved with the East Portland Action Plan (EPAP), revealed why he was volunteering at an area far north of his neighborhood.

“In my work with EPAP, I’m the liaison for the Interstate 205 Multi-Use Path,” Chasse noted. “I’m glad I can help improve the path, not just for outer East Portlanders, but for everyone in the City who comes to use it. Having trees line the path will make it feel a little friendlier.”

Gregg Pavone, I’noa and little Sean (he’s featured on our cover page) pitch in – literally – with the planting project.

Even though he’s from the Beaverton area, where he works with HSBC, Gregg Pavone said his company, an international financial concern, was a corporate sponsor of the event. “It’s good to show my boys the benefits of volunteering, by coming here to take part in the effort.”

Metro grant funds project
The three-year project is funded by a $410,000 “Nature in Neighborhoods” grant from Metro’s 2006 voter-approved Natural Areas bond measure, according to Friends of Trees spokesperson, Teri Ruch.

“The East Multnomah Soil & Water Conservation District has provided $80,000, and area businesses are providing additional funds,” Ruch said.

Antonio Askew and Kris Greene say they’re working on the project through their school on N. Killingsworth Street, Rosemary Anderson High School/Portland OIC, which prepares at-risk youth for future success through education, leadership, family outreach, employment training, and placement.

Next planting is February 20
Help green the Lents neighborhood from 9:00 am until 1:00 pm – volunteers will join with Friends of Trees and PDC (Lents, Gateway, and Airport Way URA’s) and the Youth Green Leadership Corps to plant trees along the Multi-Use Path.

Bring your sturdy shoes and wear weather-appropriate clothing, and help the environment and your community. Meet the group at SE Pardee Street and 94th Avenue. Light refreshments will be provided.

They also plan plantings on March 6 and March 20: to see the Friends of Trees Calendar, CLICK HERE.

Or, for more information, contact Andy Meeks at Friends of Trees at (503) 282-8846 ext. 24, or AndyM@FriendsofTrees.org.

They say planting trees is a good way to make new friends while helping improve the environment. Come on February 20, and check it out.

© 2010 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Why create a new plan for an existing Portland city park?  Find out why Lents residents are excited that this planning process is now underway …

Portland Parks & Recreation director Zari Santner says she’s delighted that Lents Park will be entering the Master Plan process – as Parks Commissioner Nick Fish listens in.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
While many people in the greater metropolitan area hadn’t heard of Lents Park until it was proposed as a potential home for the AAA League Portland Beavers pro baseball team, the 38+ acre park is well-known to folks in outer East Portland.

The park, originally a five-acre gravel quarry, became City-owned Portland Park in 1914, just two years after the Lents community was annexed into the City of Portland. Over the years, the City purchased an additional 32 acres – and in 1953 prepared a plan for the park that included the Charles B. Walker baseball stadium, athletic playing fields, tennis courts, pathways, and parking areas. It now features three softball fields, soccer fields, a gazebo, a stage, and a lighted tennis court.

Commissioner Fish advocates for a ‘Master Plan’
After neighbors scuttled plans to build a Triple-A ball park in Lents, Portland Parks & Recreation’s (PP&R) director Zari Santner, and Portland City Commissioner Nick Fish, agreed with neighbors that a Master Plan for the park would provide a vision for maintaining and enhancing the park.

Because Lents Park has been incrementally improved over the decades, PP&R staffmember Sarah Coates Huggins explained that the purpose of the Master Plan was to build upon the core recreational uses of the park, and provide for other community needs.

Sarah Coates Huggins, Assistant Program Specialist at Portland Parks and Recreation, explains the Park Master Plan process.

“Behind the scenes, the first step is to create an intergovernmental agreement with the Portland Development Commission,” Coates Huggins told the group at a meeting on December 21, held at the Reedway Place apartments. “Then, we can actually access the funds that they have agreed to give to the project. After that, we will begin drafting the ‘Requests for Proposals’ from Master Plan consultants.”

By as soon as this May, PP&R’s Coates Huggins said, they anticipate Master Planning process will begin. “They’ll start the process, looking at the opportunities and constraints at the site. We will be starting up a public involvement process that will likely involve a Project advisory committee, made up of diverse community members. We’ll then have public open houses to get widespread public input.”

The Master Plan consultant will then provide a series of concepts, Coates Huggins explained. “The concepts are supposed to represent what we’ve heard from you, the citizens – and incorporate every piece of information we gathered from all sources. Each concept will have associated cost estimates.”

With community input, the consultant will refine the concepts into what the Bureau calls a “preferred” or final concept that becomes the basis for the park’s Master Plan, in what was described as a seven-month process. “We anticipate the plan being done in December, 2010; in January of 2011, we would anticipate taking it to the Portland City Council for approval,” Coates Huggins explained.

Lents Neighborhood chair Damien Chakwin (seated to the right of Coates Huggins), explores facets of the bureau’s Park Master Plan process.

Fish reassures that process will include citizens
With a price tag of $100,000, primarily coming from the PDC’s Lents Town Center Urban Renewal Area, Lents Neighborhood Chair Damien Chakwin asked for assurance that the Master Plan process’s ideas would come from area citizens, not from downtown.

“The selection process of a Master Plan consultant involves public input,” Commissioner Nick Fish explained. “We have wonderful folks who have worked on other Park Master Plans for us. All of the planning will be done with community involvement. The consultant will work with our planner, who works with the citizens’ committee, to shape a Master Plan.”

Funding for the park improvements unclear
Asked how the actual improvements outlined in the Master Plan would be funded, Fish responded, “This is interesting timing question that may break our way. We are currently evaluating whether to go to the voters in November, 2010, on a Parks Bond measure.

“Under the best-case scenario, if this [bond measure] went to the voters in November, 2010, enhancing a park we already own will likely be popular with the broader public – instead of a project created from scratch. My guess is that this a winning message during these tough times.”

East Portland News then asked Fish, “What is the worst case scenario?”

Fish responded, “The worst case scenario is that the economy is so tough, and there is so much price sensitivity among voters, that we would prepare, but defer, [a bond measure] for one or two election cycles.”

We asked where the Lents Park improvement program would fall – considering that several City of Portland Park Master Plans have already been completed and approved by City Council.

“You’re right,” Fish responded, “We’ve completed three Master Plans in East Portland this past year – Beach Park, Parklane Park, and Clatsop Park – plus plans for Cathedral Park and also Kelly Park. Funding, as you know, is a combination of resources. We can work with getting grants from the federal government, from the State of Oregon, and from Portland Service Development Charges (SDC), which accumulate for new construction.”

Lents SDC fees may not cover Lents Park improvements
Chakwin observed, “There’s been a lot of construction in Lents. My understanding is that there is a certain percentage that a developer has to pay when developing a property here in this neighborhood, and that is targeted for Lents Park.”

Santner agreed, “There’s a certain amount of money that developers do have to pay in SDC’s; they go for water, sewer, transportation, and parks. And then, based on where the majority of growth is happening within the city, we focus on using that money that has been generated for either acquisition or development within those areas.”

“System development charges” do not pay for 100%of the cost of acquisition and development, Santner went on to say. “They pay for about 75%. We’re trying to focus primarily in acquiring land in areas where there is growth – and not enough park land.”

Chakwin asked for clarification: “So, even though ‘system development charge’ funds are accruing, because of development in Lents, the funds may be used in another area ‘within the zone’ to acquire property?”

Fish said that a public process determines the Bureau’s spending priorities.  “We also have backup sources of funding for these things. We have many, many different tools.”

Pointing to Director Park in downtown Portland, Fish said that 60% of the cost for that park was paid for by the private sector. “There are of a variety of ways that we can fund [park improvements]. During tough financial times, we will do them in phases.”

Commissioner Fish says the Parks Bureau uses a variety of funding sources to make park improvements.

Master Plan said necessary to obtain funding
Santner said that, regardless of the funding source, having a Master Plan approved and ready to go will help speed building the improvements.

“With an approved Park Master Plan, we can determine which project is most competitive from a funding source. Many lot of times, we need to do projects incrementally. If a bond measure [is approved by voters], the increment is larger.”

After the meeting, Nick Christensen, Vice Chair of the Lents Neighborhood Association and a member of the Friends of Lents Park Steering Committee smiled, “This is excellent, and overdue, news. Lents Park has several areas that need improvement, and tremendous opportunities to better serve the community’s needs.”

© 2010 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Find out why outer East Portland, from all walks of life, turned out to say goodbye to Commander Michael Crebs. And, find out what’s next for East Precinct’s former top cop …

Portland Police Bureau East Precinct Commander Michael Crebs conducts his last “Commander’s Forum” meeting in outer East Portland.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Having served four years and three months as Portland Police Bureau (PPB) East Precinct Commander, Michael Crebs announced he was leaving the post late in November.

When past East Precinct commanders retired or were transferred, outer East Portland folks bid them a fond farewell. But, Crebs apparent concern for our area touched many people to the extent that he received two sendoffs in December.

Commander’s last East Portland commendation
At the December 1 East Precinct Citizens Advisory Committee – still referred to as the “Commander’s Forum” by most people – the large Precinct Community Room was packed to overflowing with neighborhood representatives wanting to express their appreciation for Crebs’ dedicated service.

Commander Crebs presents a Commendation of Service to retiring volunteer “Trunk Lady” Mary Walker

But, Crebs didn’t speak about his impending departure. Instead, he called up Mary Walker, a resident of the Centennial Neighborhood, who was retiring from being a volunteer “Trunk Lady” (the Trunk Technicians restock the supplies carried in patrol vehicles) for the Precinct.

“Mary helped from 2002 to 2009,” Crebs commended. “We truly value the time you spent to make sure that each of our police vehicles were well-equipped and organized. What these people do for us is a valued service; we thank you.”

Neighbors applaud departing commander
Crebs smiled when David Smith, coordinator of EPIC – East Precinct Involved Citizens – strode up to the front of the room with a package in hand.

David Smith presents a commemorative plaque to the departing Commander Crebs.

Pulling a commemorative plaque from the envelope, Smith proclaimed, “In appreciation of your dedicated service to the citizens of East Precinct, we extend our highest regard to you, Commander Mike Crebs. Your dedication to the businesses and citizens of East Precinct has not gone unnoticed. Over the years, you have made a direct, positive difference in many people’s lives. No words can express how sorely missed you will be.”

The departing Commander appeared to be moved both by the plaque presentation and by the thunderous and sustained applause he received.

PPB East Precinct Lt. Tom McGranahan tells why the plaque is being given to the Commander at this meeting.

PPB East Precinct Lt. Tom McGranahan stepped forward and added, “Mike’s worked with me in the past; this is the first time I’ve worked for him! I’m here for Captain Bill Walker who is out on duty. Normally we give this plaque to a departing Commander at roll call. But, with four roll calls – we couldn’t decide at which one it might best be presented.”

Turning to the audience, McGranahan continued, “Plus, Mike, as you well know, is really interested in you folks, and the community. You are a priority with him. This is really appropriate for Mike to receive this memento here, before all of you. He’s a great guy. We will miss him.”

Commander Crebs thanks neighbors for their support, and tells them he’s not retiring, but is being transferred downtown.

Transferring, not retiring
“This is really nice; thank you,” Crebs responded. “The reason I got into police work was to serve you. You pay my wages, and I do the very best I can to make your life a little better. It means so much to me.”

Crebs told the group he’s being transferred to the Justice Center downtown, and would become Commander of the PPB Detective Division. “I’m not retiring; I’ve got another ten years with the Bureau. But, just because I’m downtown doesn’t mean I’m gone. I’ll still have my phone number; I’ll come out to meet with your neighborhoods and organizations to talk about our work as detectives.”

Crebs concluded, “I hope you offer the same support to Commander Mike Reese, coming to you from Central Precinct, as you have to me.”

GABA hosts Commander’s sendoff party

Commander Mike Crebs thanks business people at a GABA-sponsored Holiday party for supporting his work in outer East Portland.

On December 21, under the auspices of the Gateway Area Business Association, the Sanchez family hosted a holiday-themed sendoff party for Commander Crebs at 111th Square.

The handful of people present at the event, when we arrived at the decorated office, swelled to more than fifty well-wishers, as businesspeople arrived at the after-work event.

Nicole and Isabel Panichello (daughters of long-time Gateway supporter David Panichello of Opti-Con, Inc.) serves punch and treats to arriving guests.

As the revelers filed in, Commander Mike Crebs, now with the Portland Police Bureau Detective Division, talked with East Portland News about his time in East Precinct and his new assignment.

“Usually, Commander post assignments last two to three years,” Crebs began. “I started here in August, 2005 – a long assignment, for a precinct commander.”

Says he admires East Portland’s energized citizens
Asked what changes he’s seen in the area during his tenure, Crebs replied, “The citizens here have become more active. They’re asking City government for their fair share of services. And, I think the City Council has really made note of this; they’re listening, and taking the requests of people in East Portland seriously. Part of the visible result is the ongoing ‘East Portland Action Plan’ project.”

Mike Crebs shares a light moment with folks at the GABA gathering.

He continued, “Honestly, I didn’t know much about outer East Portland before I took the East Precinct post. I’ve found that citizens here are very active and concerned about their neighborhoods. And they’re very energized toward making improvements here.

“What I’ll miss about being at East Precinct is the hard-working, supportive citizens with whom I’ve worked. I think about them all the time; I feel so supported here. The citizens here are decent people; I’m going to miss working with them.”

About his East Precinct staff, Crebs had high praise. “The men and women officers who work here are dedicated and hard-working; you’ll find no finer officers, and support and command staff in the entire United States. Every day, I see their dedication to this community in action – both on the job, and how they volunteer their time to make it a better place out here.”

Tom Barnes of the Powellhurst-Gilbert Neighborhood Association, and the VP of the Midway Business Association, Donna Dionne from Love Boutique, spend a moment with Commander Crebs, to wish him well.

Event draws area-wide support
From the southern neighborhoods in the precinct, supporters Tom Barnes and Donna Dionne came to wish Crebs well.

The Chair of Powellhurst-Gilbert Neighborhood Association’s Public Safety Committee, Tom Barnes, told us, “Working with Mike has been absolutely fantastic. He’s been very supportive of the many of the anti-crime, pro-safety programs we’ve started.”

With Powellhurst-Gilbert recently awarded the Spirit of Portland Neighborhood Award, Barnes commended, “Thanks to Crebs, we been able to start several programs through East Precinct – from our bike patrol, to graffiti cleanup, to Block Watch organizing. Without his support, and that of the command staff and district officers, we wouldn’t have been able to improve our neighborhood with these City-recognized programs.”

Donna Dionne, VP of the Midway Business Association, added, “The Commander has truly been an advocate of community policing. He’s been very involved with the business community, supporting and visiting our – and other – outer East Portland business associations. We feel we’ve had his full support; we’re sorry to see him go.”

Commander’s secret revealed
After introductions around the crowded room, host Fred Sanchez noted, “As we know the Commander is moving downtown. But I can’t let him leave without telling about certain foods he enjoys.”

All in agreed with Sanchez’s sentiment that no one had ever seen Crebs dine at a breakfast, lunch, or dinner. “I’m not aware of anyone who is taken him to lunch. I’ve been asking his friend, and fellow officers why I could never get him to go to lunch and talk about GABA business or the Gateway area. We finally sat down to a brown-bag lunch; we both brought our own meals – and finally figured out what he eats. Here’s a picture I found buried in the archives.”

Fred Sanchez, president of Realty Brokers and host at 111th Square, reveals what he believes is the featured entree on Commander Crebs’ secret diet. (Actually, it’s tuna!).

Crebs admitted to his fondness of fish, especially tuna. Turning to the gathering, Crebs said, “I really will miss you. Please, stay involved. Keep taking pride in your neighborhoods; continue to work with the police. You’re great people, that’s all I can say.”

Calls Crebs a ‘man of integrity’
At the party, Argay Terrace Neighborhood’s Chair, Valerie Curry, summed up well what many people in outer East Portland think about the departing commander:

“His personal integrity is the thing that touches my heart,” Curry noted. “We don’t see a lot of that in public leadership. I wish we had more leaders who demonstrate integrity as Commander Crebs has. He’s a great guy; we’ll miss him.”

Commander Crebs looks on as Montavilla Neighborhood Association Chair Brian Wong and Samantha visits “Not your ordinary Santa” Kevin Minkoff, CPA at the Gateway gathering.

© 2009 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

See why they’re hopeful that this seedling concept will sprout and grow in 2010, as did the Lents Homeownership Initiative. Find out what it’s all about – and how you can participate – right here …

ROSE Community Development Corp. Executive Director Nick Sauvie explains how the “East Portland Enhancement Project” can reduce poverty in outer East Portland.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
ROSE (“Revitalize Outer South East”) Community Development Corp. has become known for providing quality low-income housing, as well as encouraging homeownership by way of the Lents Homeownership Initiative (LHI).

And now, ROSE has kicked off the “East Portland Enhancement Project” (they call it “EP2”).

“This isn’t so much an expansion of the Lents Homeownership Initiative,” Sauvie told us, “as it is more of an evolution. We are using the same kind of ‘tools’ to take on more complicated, interrelated issues. It’s really clear that family issues, and economic issues, are interrelated. Especially with the way the economy is these days, it’s even more important that we are effective in our efforts to revitalize the area.”

Nick Sauvie tells talks about EP2’s primary themes of connections, health and jobs.

Sauvie said the “tools” he referred to are the skills ROSE learned in order to recruit and motivate a relatively large pool of agencies, companies, and organizations to help LHI participants go from being renters to being homeowners.

“This is more than just Rose Community Development. It’s the dozens of organizations represented in the room today, all working together. We learned through LHI that we can get a lot more done by working together than by working individually.”

During the luncheon, held at the David Douglas Schools South Powellhurst Building on SE 122nd Avenue, Sauvie told the participants that EP2 is centered on three themes: Strong connections, healthy families, and economic opportunities.

Representatives from many community and business organizations attended the EE2 kickoff luncheon meeting.

Sauvie told representatives from David Douglas School District, Proud Ground, REACH, Oregon State House District 47, Coalition for a Livable Future, Community Health Partnership, Zenger Farm, Portland Development Commission, Portland Housing Bureau, EXIT Realty, Golf Savings Bank, Society of St. Vincent de Paul, and others in attendance, that EP2 plans to develop a series of workshops covering four categories of need:

1. Healthy families – “We came up with the concept, ‘1,000 Healthy Habits’. A zillion things go along with this, including exercise, and access to a good grocery store and good quality food, and skills around preparing food.”
2. Starting and running a small business – “We know how to help renters become homeowners. But [Portland City] zoning does not lend itself to starting businesses. We’ve already started working with our tenants to help them start micro-businesses. One of our goals is to create opportunities for 100 micro-businesses or new jobs in this area.”
3. Making strong connections – “This is the stuff of social science. John McKnight and his colleagues call Asset-Based Community Development. Healthy neighborhoods have stronger connections among the people who live there – and among the residents and their business districts, nonprofit organizations, and churches. That’s why it’s exciting for me to be in this room: The more people we have on-board, the greater an impact EP2 will have building social capital.”
4. Increasing the level of resident satisfaction – “Right now, out of 90 Portland neighborhoods, the Powellhurst-Gilbert Neighborhood is at the bottom of the list when it comes to residents’ satisfaction. Our goal, within a couple years, is to have more than 60% of people in Powellhurst-Gilbert grade their neighborhood as good or very good.  District-wide, there is a big gap in resident neighborhood satisfaction among neighborhoods east of 82nd Avenue of Roses and west of SE 82nd Avenue.”

City Planner Barry Manning says his bureau is looking for ways to help – and to remove barriers to the betterment of outer East Portland neighborhoods.

City’s role in building better neighborhoods
Portland Bureau of Planning and Sustainability’s Barry Manning said the City of Portland continues to work on development design and “connectivity” issues in outer East Portland.

“We’re looking to see which regulations might help, or impede, some of the EP2 goals,” Manning to the group. “We’re looking at some of those issues, from a land development standpoint. Regarding ‘connectivity’, we’re looking at how we can help support people getting around this neighborhood in a better fashion by setting recommendations and advocating for city actions. We’re looking at what government can do to help productivity.”

Amie Diffenauer, the spearhead of the ROSE LHI effort, asks attendees to show their support for EP2.

Makes appeal for support
ROSE community organizer Amie Diffenauer explained that ROSE plans to officially roll out EP1 in January 2010, and then to take quarterly measurements. “We’re going to be working here for some period of time, and refining our program here in Powellhurst-Gilbert, before we decide to move on to other areas of outer East Portland.”

Diffenauer encouraged everyone in attendance ad the event to sign up to participate.

Powellhurst-Gilbert Neighborhood Association Chair Mark White listens to concerns expressed about outer East Portland issues.

Neighborhood leader says plan gives him optimism
The newly-minted “Emerging Community Leader” Spirit of Portland Award winner, Powellhurst-Gilbert Neighborhood Association Chair Mark White, told us after the meeting that he’s enthusiastic about the EP2 program.

“It’s important for people to understand that the changes that have come to the neighborhood haven’t all been good,” White began. “The high amount of poverty both in outer East Portland – and in our neighborhood – is now unprecedented.”

White stated that there are at least 1,000 “Section 8” households there. “The number of tax-exempt properties is profound. The transportation infrastructure is almost nonexistent; sidewalks are few.  Every single bus line on SE Division Street – our entire neighborhood – are all infrequent bus lines.”

What gives him optimism, White added, is the concerted efforts of many organizations to improve outer East Portland. “These include the East Portland Enhancement Project – the East Portland Action Plan is another component – and connections people are making between these groups and the 122nd Avenue Enhancement Study. Also, our neighborhood association has the support of the Midway Business Association. It’s encouraging to see nonprofit organizations connecting with each other, creating a safety net – while we’re establishing more substantial solutions.”

Nick Sauvie says EE2 has the support of community leaders such as Annette Mattson, of Portland General Electric and also a David Douglas School Board, and Matthew Roma, Manager of Standard TV & Appliance on SE 82nd Avenue of Roses.

Supporters chime in
Annette Mattson, who is with Portland General Electric and is also a David Douglas School Board member, said the school district is will continue to partner with ROSE as it has in the past.

“We’re involved because ROSE is working to improve the community in which our students live,” Mattson told us. “As the community prospers, so do our children.  Home ownership is good for kids. When kids have a stable place to call home, research shows that they do better academically.”

Standard TV and Appliance has been on board with ROSE for years, lending both moral and fiscal support – they paid for the Pizza Baron luncheon the group enjoyed that day – and they have given space for meetings in their own training center.

Matthew Roma, Manager of the store’s SE 82nd Avenue of Roses location, explained why: “The company started in southeast Portland; it certainly is in our best interest to help develop the community. Both our customers and workforce live in the East Portland area. And, one of the founding principles of our company has always been to give back to our community in meaningful ways.”

To learn how you too can help ROSE give families a secure place to build lives, raise children, and feel like part of the neighborhood, visit their website; CLICK HERE to visit it – or, call them at call (503) 788-8052.

© 2009 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

What does the future hold for dog lovers who love to let their ‘best friends’ run free?  There’s still a chance for to chime in – if you read this, and take action – right now …

Eileen Argentina, Services Manager for Portland Parks & Recreation, addresses attendees at the Southeast Portland Off-Leash Dog Park open house.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Since Portland Parks & Recreation (PP&R) began a pilot program in 1999 by setting up three fenced, off-leash dog areas, this feature has expanded, and now Portland has 32 off-leash areas.

“Five of these sites are fenced, all-day areas,” PP&R’s Services Manager Eileen Argentina told us, before an “Off-leash Open House” began at Southeast Portland’s Community Music Center. “The remaining areas are unfenced,” she added, “with seasonal hours, depending on site restoration and adjacent uses.

“Tonight, we’re having a talk with users of off-leash areas in our parks,” Argentina said. “We want to renew the discussion started about ten years ago, about how we manage the system that we have. And, potentially, we may start an Advisory Group.”

In addition to sharing information about how the off-leash system is working, Argentina said she hoped to get feedback about citizen’s priorities. “There may be some changes – we’re not talking about any substantial changes – but, how we can make best use of our resources. This means setting priorities with our maintenance dollars; how can we work together to decide to leverage volunteer resources, and perhaps do some fundraising to support off-leash areas.”

Ali Ryan, PP&R Program Specialist in charge of the Off-Leash Area (OLA) program, said that walk-through site assessments of the 32 off-leash areas had been completed by park staff and community members. The overview of the results included:

Positive attributes:

• Off-leash areas are in good shape for the amount/level of use they get
• Users appreciate the areas very much, and most report responsible use of OLAs
• Many users indicated they’d like a way to get involved with volunteering/fundraising

Challenges and issues:

• Ground conditions – Bare patches, turf health, drainage issues, irrigation challenges
• Amenity requests – Users would like to see water, lighting, and trash cans added to sites
• Conflicts with other uses – Dogs being off-leash outside OLAs is a problem, especially with adjacent uses like playgrounds/sports
• Trash can location – Users want trash cans moved inside OLA boundaries
• Environmental impacts – OLAs do have effects on environmental health, park ecologists noted – especially at Gabriel, Sellwood Riverfront, Willamette, and Mt. Tabor.

PP&R’s Elizabeth Kennedy-Wong gives a presentation outlining the history of off-leash dog areas in Portland.

Questions and answers
PP&R staff members answered dozens of questions at the open house, including:

Q: I’m interested in establishing an OLA in my neighborhood.

A: Portland Parks & Recreation is not currently considering adding or removing off-leash areas from the system.

Q: If my dog is attacked, or someone keeps showing up with an aggressive dog, what do I do?

A: For an emergency situation, call Multnomah County Animal Control directly at 503-988-PETS andtouch “1” for emergency. Aggressive animals may also be reported to Park Rangers at 503-823-1637.

Q: I’m new to off-leash areas, how I can learn about volunteer opportunities?

A: PP&R doesn’t currently have a dedicated volunteer group for off-leash areas, though certain off-leash areas do have “friends” groups. There is strong interest from both the community and PP&R in establishing some tools to assist people in forming volunteer groups, or holding work parties.

Advisory group members sought
To help guide the bureau’s regarding the off-leash program, Argentina said they hope to establish an off-leash advisory group. “This would be an ongoing group that would act as a sounding board for parks bureau.”

“Many meeting attendees did turn in advisory group interest forms after the meeting,” Ryan told us later. If you are interested, but missed the meeting, “interest forms” are available online at their website: CLICK HERE. Although it’s past their official deadline, they still want your input.

© 2009 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Discover the simple steps that cops and volunteers are telling shoppers both to protect their newly-purchased gifts – and their vehicles. It’s good advice, year around …

Outside the Eastport Plaza Wal-Mart store, Charity Hefner learns car prowl safety tips from Portland Police Bureau East Precinct Officer Jeff Pontius.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Whether it’s called a “smash-and-grab” or “car prowl”, the result is the same: A vehicle has a door pried open – or a window smashed out by a crook using “ninja rocks”, a hammer, or their fist – and whatever was visible in the vehicle has been stolen.

On December 12, Portland Police Bureau East Precinct officers, and neighborhood public safety volunteers, fanned out across the Eastport Plaza parking lot on a mission to inform holiday shoppers about car prowls, and how to avoid being a victim.

Tom Barnes, Chair of the public safety committee of the Powellhurst-Gilbert Neighborhood Association, and East Precinct Sergeant John Scruggs, together head out from the Police Bureau’s “Mobile Precinct” to inform holiday shoppers about car prowl risks.

Cops keep an eye out
East Precinct’s Sergeant John Scruggs said that, thanks to past efforts, car prowls are down 11% this year. “But this doesn’t mean you’re safe, if you were seen putting valuables into your vehicle and then walking away.”

Scruggs said that criminals are always on the lookout for an “easy mark” – an inattentive motorist. “We’re on this informational mission because, during the Holidays, people are in a rush; they tend to leave purchases in their vehicle when they dash into a store. But all it takes is a moment for a criminal to smash a window, and grab your goods.”

Neighbors help spread the word
Tom Barnes, who chairs Powellhurst-Gilbert Neighborhood Association’s public safety committee, said that while Eastport Plaza is in the Lents neighborhood, the problem affects everyone in outer East Portland.

“I came out today because it’s our opportunity to help ‘save’ somebody’s Christmas,” Barnes explained. “We’re helping people become aware that it’s a bad idea to leave valuables – or anything – visible in their car or truck. Nothing will spoil Christmas faster than buying gifts and then finding they’ve been stolen. I know from personal experience – I’ve been a car prowl victim myself.”

Portland Police Bureau East Precinct Officer Joe Young, along with Pat Smith, Dave Smith – coordinator of East Portland Involved Citizens (EPIC), and East Precinct Officer Patrick Nagy, here hand out leaflets explaining the dangers of leaving gifts – or any packages – visible in vehicles.

Anti-Car Prowl safety tips

• Never be seen putting anything into your vehicle, then leaving it. If you need to continue shopping at that location, move your vehicle to another spot in the parking lot before going back in to shop.
• Leave your vehicle “showroom clean”. On-dash GPS systems, laptop bags, mail, or receipts provide an invitation to steal your goods – or your identity.
• Don’t leave anything exposed – even yesterday’s lunch in a paper bag! To a drugged-up criminal, the bag or box holding a yesterday’s soggy egg salad sandwich may contain a brand-new Rolex watch or other treasure. While the crook will be disappointed at what’s in the bag, you’ll still be paying at least $300 to replace your car window.
• Be aware of your surroundings. Muggers look for people who are looking down and are focused of their immediate task. Look up and around, as you go about your shopping.

Both Scruggs and Barnes said they’ve been very well received during the mission. And if you follow their common sense tips, you’ll have a happier Christmas Season and New Year.

© 2009 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

See how the simple idea of a ‘neighborhood clean-up’ does much more than merely provide an easy way for folks to dump their trash …

The Chair of the Lents Neighborhood Association, Damien Chakwin, pitches refuse into one of the many Dumpsters sited around the neighborhood.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
One of the services that many outer East Portland neighborhoods provide for their residents is “Neighborhood Clean-up” events. But, as we learned from several neighborhood leaders, these clean-ups – three of them were happening on the same day – are more than just a convenient way for neighbors to dispose of their yard debris and refuse…

Lents Neighborhood

Lents’ Damien Chakwin sorts refuse from reusable items at their neighborhood clean-up.

On October 17, the Lents Neighborhood Association held their fall clean-up. Damien Chakwin, Lents Neighborhood Association Chair, didn’t let the steady rain that was falling that day detour him from helping residents pitch their debris into one of the eight Dumpsters in the neighborhood.

“We don’t take hazardous wastes, of course,” Chakwin said. “And, we make sure that computers and other non-recyclables are properly disposed of.”

The Dumpster he was manning was filling quickly, even during an atypical downpour. “I credit my wife – she promotes the event by handing out flyers, for example, and many other ways. She does such a good job; this Dumpster usually fills up quickly, and accounts for the donations given. She’s absolutely my hero.”

In addition to getting trash out of the neighborhood, Chakwin said the voluntary donations help support neighborhood activities. “And, in addition to making our yards and homes tidier, the ultimate result is a better Lents neighborhood.”

When all was tallied, haulers removed almost 16 tons of trash, refuse, and debris from the Lents Neighborhood.

Powellhurst-Gilbert Neighborhood
Just to the East of Lents, also on October 17, the Powellhurst-Gilbert Neighborhood Association was holding their own fall clean-up event.

“We had five sites this year,” observed their association’s President, Mark White.

Because theirs is one of the geographically-largest neighborhood associations in the city, the multiple sites made it easier for neighbors to participate, explained White. “We used West Powellhurst School as our main location; at this site, neighbors could come and recycle goods made primarily out of metal, there.”

White added that, considering the relatively short lead time, this year’s fall clean-up event was quite successful. “The neighborhood gained a some donations from the project over the cost, part of which was covered by a Metro grant.”

Woodland Park Neighborhood
Up north, also on October 17, the Woodland Park Neighborhood Association was simultaneously hosting their annual clean-up event.

“We had four Dumpsters out,” said the neighborhood association’s Chair, Alesia Reese. “With 30 of our of 97 households participating, it was a good event.”

Because theirs is a small residential neighborhood, with no stores or coffee shops – north of NE Halsey Street and east of the I-205 freeway – this event also helps build a sense of community, Reese said. “It seems to be a good opportunity for neighbors to get out and help one another. This event gives people a reason to come out and be together.”

As a neighborhood, Reese added, they agreed to continue the clean-up events in the future. “We also had some good donations that go into the special projects fund. Even in these economic times, neighbors chose to participate.”

Wilkes Neighborhood

The Chair of Wilkes Community Group, Alice Blatt, escapes from the pouring rain during their clean-up event.

Torrential rain seemed to be the theme during this year’s neighborhood clean-up events, including the one in Wilkes Community Group on November 7.

What started out a weather-threatening morning turned into a very wet day at Margaret Scott Elementary School, as volunteers quickly filled Dumpsters to the brim.

Ed Zarins, Jim Blatt and Steve Johnson get drenched while helping neighbors unload their refuse during the Wilkes Community Group clean-up.

Even with the monsoon-like downpour, some latecomers grumbled because every inch of the massive Dumpsters at the Wilkes event was packed full. In all, 8.5 tons of yard debris was hauled off, as well as 7 tons of refuse!

We should add again that the outer East Portland clean-ups are made possible, in part, by a grant from Metro.

© 2009 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

If you haven’t yet heard – see who picked up gleaming Lucite awards, and a thunderous applause, at this year’s ceremony – held in downtown Portland.  Take a look; we’ve got loads of great, exclusive photos …

The Safety Committee Chair of the Powellhurst-Gilbert Neighborhood Association, Tom Barnes, and Midway Business Association Vice President Donna Dionne, owner of the Love Boutique, say they came downtown to see their neighborhood Chair, Mark White, pick up two – not one – 2009 Spirit of Portland Awards.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Of the twenty five 2009 Spirit of Portland awardees on November 12, five of the recipients were from East Portland. This year’s evening event was held at the Newmark Theatre, downtown, on SW Broadway.

Portland Mayor Sam Adams welcomes the participants to the 2009 Spirit of Portland Awards.

How Spirit of Portland awardees are chosen
The Spirit of Portland Awards are organized by the Portland Office of Neighborhood Involvement (ONI), which is overseen by Portland City Commissioner Amanda Fritz.

“The City [is improving] because we understand that individuals, coming together, build a better community,” Fritz began.

Commissioner Fritz says the award winners are chosen by an impartial committee, using a scoring system.

“The system that was used makes sure the selection is fair; an impartial group of people select the awardees. They have a fairly elaborate scoring system that evaluates the nominations sent in by Portlanders.

Fritz said that, as a community organizer, she has served twice on the selection committee. “It was wonderful to hear about so many wonderful things going on in every part of Portland. It is also challenging to pick only a few winners.”

Emerging Community Leader Award: Mark White

2009 Spirit of Portland Emerging Community Leader, Mark White receives his memento from Portland City Commissioner Amanda Fritz.

Commissioner Fritz told the assembly that Mark White, Powellhurst-Gilbert Neighborhood’s president, showed leadership by producing the successful 2009 East Portland Exposition (EPO XPO), working with students and culturally diverse groups. He increased neighborhood bike lanes, and instituted graffiti cleanups.

“He’s been president of neighborhood association for just over one year,” Fritz noted. “He devotes almost all of his time to improving the quality of life in Powellhurst-Gilbert neighborhood, and outer east Portland.”

Commissioner Fritz tells of Mark White’s accomplishments as a neighborhood leader.

Fritz looked up from her notes and said, “I have to break from the script and tell you, when it heard about his plans [for EPO XPO], I thought that was not possible to bring it off. When I went and visited, it happened on the days when the temperature was 100°; people were still there including the exhibitors. There were kids skating in the park – it was a wonderful event, and a tribute to Mark’s leadership.”

Fritz continued, “White also wrote and was awarded three small neighborhood association grants last year, including youth internship programs which introduced students to community organizing, focus groups with immigrant youths to identify ways to communicate and engage their non-English-speaking parents and to build community, and a neighborhood night out – that was expanded to include a movie in the park.

“Mark also wrote and received two additional grants from the East Portland Action Plan to begin work on the East Portland Position for 2010, and expand a Powellhurst Gilbert urban farming program. This’ll act as an economic development tool, and help address issues of increasing poverty and hunger in the community.”

Emerging Community Leader, Mark White says he has many to thank for his award.

White responded, “Hello everyone, and thank you so much. It’s a pleasure to be here, and an honor to receive this award. I am truly grateful to be able to do the things that I do. I can’t imagine not doing what I’m doing. It is a pleasure to be able to say that.

“I’m also keenly aware that I am only able to do that because of the love, support, and generosity of my partner Billy, so thank you so much.”

Non-Profit Award: IRCO

2009 Spirit of Portland Non-Profit; Sokhom Tauch, Executive Director of the Immigrant and Refugee Community Organization, receives his award from Commissioner Fritz.

The Immigrant and Refugee Community Organization, known as IRCO, was recognized with a 2009 Spirit of Portland Award for community-based non-profit organizations for providing an array of culturally specific programs, serving families “from birth to elders”, Commissioner Fritz noted.

Fritz commended, “Since 1976, IRCO’s multilingual and multi-ethnic staff has been able to address the needs of Portland’s increasingly diverse groups – from Asia, the Pacific Islands, Latin America, Africa, the former Soviet Union, the Middle East, Eastern Europe, and the United States.”

Commissioner Fritz says that IRCO helps support Portland’s increasingly diverse populations.

“IRCO has implemented various projects in response to community needs, such as Africa House, founded in 2006.  In the last year, they’ve expanded Africa House programming to include financial literacy classes – a public awareness campaign for domestic violence and a youth mentoring program.  In the last four months alone, Africa House worked with over 50 Africans working in Portland.

“IRCO also develops leadership opportunities for its diverse community with this diverse and civic leadership organizing project.  They recruit and train community leaders to become advocates in responding to the city and public involvement initiatives.”

IRCO’s Sokhom Tauch says he’s pleased that his organization is being honored for its work.

“Good evening,” responded Sokhom Tauch. “On behalf of our immigrant and refugee Portland community, on behalf of our IRCO Director and staff, I am grateful tonight to be able to be here and to accept the award.

“Portland is a beacon of hope for many immigrants. We are pretty honored to be able to serve them, and to help them become a self-sufficient and healthy community in Portland. By the way, I want to thank the person who nominated us. They must have done a good job to get us elected like this. Thank you, Mayor and Commissioners of Portland.”

Commissioner’s Award: Helensview High School

Portland City Commissioner Dan Saltzman’s 2009 Spirit of Portland Commissioner’s Award was to the Principal of outer East Portland’s Helensview High School, Kris Persson, and Attendance Liaison Shantae Grixgby.

Portland City Commissioner Dan Saltzman noted that, for the first time, “Commissioner’s Awards” were also being presented. “My first such award goes to Helensview High School, operated by the Multnomah Educational Service District. It is a pioneer in gang violence prevention and peer mediation. It’s changing the path for at risk youth toward a more positive future.

“Principal Kris Persson’s compassion, and belief in her students, have helped shape the school’s philosophy. This includes its unique discipline strategies. If a student is not following the rules, that student follows Principal Persson for the day – maybe more than a day.

“If two or more students are having a disagreement, the students go directly to work, with peer mediators. Helensview does not expel students, because it does not give up on students who make mistakes.”

Commissioner Saltzman tells why Helensview High gets his first Spirit of Portland Commissioner’s Award.

“Two professionally-equipped music studios allow students to express themselves creatively and produce something positive.  They also learn how to operate computers, and special equipment that may open up future career options.

“Helensview annually enrolls 250 to 275 youths between the ages of 12 and 21. It offers options for day school, as well as for night school for those who work during the day. Home-school is a good option for students who need an alternative to the traditional school setting.

“The staff has a strong and unique bond with the students, leading to a mutual learning experience. They become mentors who lead and teach – also learning from the students how to be even better mentors.”

Helensview High’s Principal, Kris Persson, accepts the award on behalf of the school, along with the school’s Attendance Liaison, Shantae Grixgby.

The Principal of Helensview High, Kris Persson, responded to the award, saying, “Congratulations to us all. I want to thank Commissioner Saltzman for awarding this honor to the staff and the students of Helensview. And we accept this award on behalf of Multnomah Education Service District, the agency that allows us the opportunity to do such a wonderful job.”

Shantae Grixgby, the school’s Attendance Liaison, added, “When we heard that we were being presented this award, we were so excited about the positive energy. This is encouraging to everyone. We are a great school; we’re happy to be here.”

Neighborhood Business District Award: D-CBA

Portland City Commissioner Nick Fish presents the 2009 Spirit of Portland Neighborhood Business District Award to Division-Clinton Business Association’s President, Darice Robinson, and to D-CBA sparkplug and current APNBA President Jean Baker.

As Commissioner Amanda Fritz remarked that 2009 marks the first year a neighborhood business district has been honored, because “This is a City Council that values small businesses”, Commissioner Nick Fish was presenting the award to the Division-Clinton Business Association.

“It’s made up of hundreds of businesses in Portland’s inner Southeast area,” Fish began. “The D-CBA is honored this year for its many contributions to the greater good of our community.

Commissioner Nick Fish says the Division-Clinton Business Association works for the good of the community, as well as businesses along its streets.

“This Association actively reaches out to community members with a website that is created to serve as a resource for the Division-Clinton neighborhood. The website is comprehensive, including news about neighborhood businesses, neighborhood news, and event information.

“The D-CBA also provides local contests, and a wonderful street fair – now in its 17th year. Working with neighborhood groups and the city to design improvements for Division Street, and to keep residents and businesses updated as the plan progresses, the DCBA continues its 20-year commitment to improving economic development and livability. Chris and Jeanne, thank you for all you do for our community.”

D-CBA president Darice Robinson and Past President (and current Alliance of Portland Neighborhood Business Associations President) Jean Baker accept the award.

D-CBA’s president, Darice Robinson, of Hollywood Impress Printing, accepted, saying, “It is my privilege to accept this award on behalf of the Division-Clinton Business Association, and all the businesses in our district, our local residents, and our members and sponsors.

“It’s just been a really interesting path that this has taken.  I’ve had a local business on SE Division Street for over 25 years. And now, to see businesses come and stay, local residents walking along our streets – just to see it really starting to thrive – we really have a lot to look forward to. And, we still have a lot of hard work ahead of us. We really appreciate this award. We also want to thank the City of Portland, the Commissioners, and the Mayor’s office – all of whom have been good supporters of business associations, here in Portland.”

The Past President of D-CBA, and current President of APNBA, Jean Baker, added, “Now that things that are happening, I also want to thank all of the individual businesspeople, who over the last 20-some years have looked beyond the success of their business and thought of the success of the street. They put in all the work that got us to where we are now.  Let’s think all of them right now.”

Neighborhood Association of the Year:
Powellhurst-Gilbert Neighborhood Association

Portland City Commissioner Amanda Fritz presents the 2009 Spirit of Portland Neighborhood Association of the Year to the association’s President, Mark White.

“I’d like to invite Mark White to come back up to accept on behalf of Powellhurst-Gilbert Neighborhood Association,” Commissioner Amanda Fritz began.

“Despite obstacles including poverty, a rapidly growing population, and dozens of different languages spoken by its residents, the Powellhurst-Gilbert Neighborhood Association has made tremendous strides in a brightening the quality of life in its own and neighboring communities. With monthly meetings averaging 20 to 30 individuals – and by the way, that’s a pretty average for labor and associations – we are back, and we are strong. Powellhurst-Gilbert has a very strong core of volunteers.”

Commissioner Amanda Fritz clicks off a long list of Powellhurst-Gilbert Neighborhood Association accomplishments.

The commissioner outlined the association’s recent significant achievements, including,

• The most successful graffiti cleanup in the City’s history;
• An ongoing graffiti cleanup program;
• The launch of the East Portland Exposition, a coalition-wide festival promoting East Portland and his 13 neighborhoods;
• Producing a successful combination Neighborhood Night Out against crime and Movie-in-the-Park program;
• Installing a soft surface pedestrian path in West Powellhurst-Gilbert Park;
• Developing an “Adopt-a-Drain” program designed to help manage stormwater drains – efforts are underway to use it as a template for the entire city;
• Launching a major restoration project on the Springwater Corridor between SE 128th Avenue and 136th Avenue; and,
• Being awarded three small neighbor grants, including one for immigrant outreach and one for youth internships, as well as three Portland action plan grants, including one to launch an urban farming program, and another one for a coalition-wide graffiti abatement program.

“Thank you Mark White and the Powellhurst-Gilbert Neighborhood Association volunteers, members and neighbors,” Fritz concluded.

Mark White tells why he feels it important to help improve his neighborhood.

Powellhurst-Gilbert Neighborhood Association President Mark White accepted the award, saying, “It is truly, truly an honor to accept this on behalf of the neighborhood association. I’d just like to say that one of the things that I’ve learned, being part of the neighborhood association, is that it’s really a group effort. There are a number of people here who have participated in everything that we do.

“I think it’s important to point out that, in 2007, the Portland City Auditor’s report showed that the Powellhurst-Gilbert neighborhood scored as having the overall lowest livability in the city. This award is truly a truly a testament of the things that we’ve done [in the past two years] to create profound change in our neighborhood.

“I think it’s important for people to understand that a small group of people can make a big difference, despite the obstacles that are in front of them. There are too many people to thank – I see a number of them here in the audience – you know who you are, you are all very personally dear to me. Know that the neighborhood is truly, truly blessed to have you a part of all of our activities.”

At the awards, Elvin Sveen, PGNA board member Jim Chasse and Billy McKinley  sit with double-award winner Mark White.

“I’d like to take the opportunity to also say to those who are in this room – if for some reason you have not found your niche, your ‘tribe’ to belong to, a neighborhood association truly is a place where you can come and shine and give back tremendously to the community in which you live.

“I also thank the City Council for their ongoing support of the neighborhood associations, and a special thank you to Commissioner Fritz, and her staff, who have been unwavering in their support for neighborhood associations.”

© 2009 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

What is this “new” plan – and why should you care? Read this, and you may find yourself marking down a Portland Plan Workshop on your calendar …

The Vice-Chair of Russell Neighborhood Association, Bonny McKnight, and Portland Planning Bureau East Portland District Liaison Chris Scarzello, listen to the concerns of neighbors regarding the Portland Plan.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Many NE outer Portland neighbors got their first introduction to The Portland Plan process while attending the Russell Neighborhood Association meeting, at Western States Chiropractic College’s Hampton Hall on October 15.

Bonny McKnight, Vice-Chair of the Russell Neighborhood Association, introduced Chris Scarzello, the East Portland District Liaison from the Portland Planning Bureau, to the 14 attendees.

“Overall,” Scarzello began, “my role is to advocate for those who live and own property in outer East Portland. But, we’ve been asked to provide outreach services for the Portland Plan. District Liaisons have not been immersed in the Portland Plan to date. So, we are not the experts, but I’m here to take questions, and if I don’t know the answers, I’ll find out and get back to you.”

Chris Scarzello, the East Portland District Liaison for the City, introduces the Portland Plan process.

Portland Plan in a nutshell
According to the information Scarzello provided,

The Portland Plan will be our City’s strategic plan for the next 25 years, ensuring that Portland is a thriving and sustainable city and our people are prosperous, healthy and educated.

The public is invited to these workshops to work together with the City and their neighbors to discuss challenges, define priorities and guide investments for the future. All Portlanders are welcome, and we look forward to your input. (Outer East Portland workshop dates and locations are listed at the end of the article.)

“It starts with the ‘Comprehensive Plan’,” Scarzello informed the group. “It generates the need for what we’ve called the Portland Plan. It lays out how the City will develop. The State of Oregon has required we create one; Portland didn’t adopt a Comprehensive Plan until 1981. It assures that all property owners will be treated equally; and moreover, that all will be able to have a role in developing and following the plan. And, the plan has to change with the changing needs of the community.”

The State mandates a review of a city’s Comprehensive Plan, Scarzello added, so that it’s updated every 20 years. “We are a little behind updating our Portland Plan.”

Laying out ‘the way we live’
The plan lays out zoning regulations, Scarzello said, but also deals with issues of transportation, air and water quality, and stormwater disposal. “It lays out how we live and function in the city. From the Comprehensive Plan, we develop rules. Whether the rules change a lot or a little depends on the adopted Plan.”

“Outer East Portland was annexed into the City of Portland after the Comprehensive Plan was adopted,” McKnight pointed out.

Scarzello agreed, saying that the City is larger and more populous than it was in 1980.

“The Portland Plan is more conceptual than a strategic plan. It looks at our aspirations for the next 20 years. It also includes information about demographics, and our business sector.”

Bonny McKnight says the Portland Plan must accommodate differences found in neighborhoods across the city.

Vice chair urges participation
“Participating in the Portland Plan process is far more important in this than in any other single program,” commented McKnight. “There are significant differences between this (Russell) neighborhood and Roseway, or a neighborhood in southwest Portland. We must make sure it fits with who and what we are in outer East Portland.”

McKnight asked, “How can we, in neighborhoods, make sure decisions coming from this process – and the resulting Plan – include protections and infill methods that don’t cause problems for existing residents, and continue to support our current livability?”

Scarzello replied, “That’s a very good question. The simple answer is to become involved in the Portland Plan.  Speak up.  You don’t have to go to meetings; you can view it online and comment that way, for example.”

Most of the “community plans” set forth for the annexed outer East Portland neighborhoods haven’t been reviewed,” McKnight noted. “And, the City hasn’t been supporting concepts that don’t fit into their one-size-fits-all programs.”

As the discussion turned to specific neighborhood concerns, McKnight urged citizen participation, saying, “We need to be involved in the Plan – and have more input than just voting, every four years, when [Portland City] Commissioners are running for office.”

City Planner Chris Scarzello urges all citizens to become involved in the updating of the Portland Plan.

Step up and be heard
To become involved, a good start is to attend a meeting at which elements of the Portland Plan will be discussed.

November 19

• This outer East Portland “Portland Plan Workshop” will run from 6:30 until 9:00 pm at the David Douglas High School Cafeteria (North), 1001 SE 135th Avenue, Portland, OR 97233.

December 5

• An inner SE Portland “Portland Plan Workshop” will run from 10:00 am until 12:30 pm at the Mt. Scott Community Center Auditorium, 5530 SE 72nd Avenue, Portland, OR 97255.

For more information about the Portland Plan and the workshops, please contact Marty Stockton by email at Marty.Stockton@ci.portland.or.us, or call (503) 823-2041.

Or, for more information online, CLICK HERE to visit the City’s official information website.

© 2009 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News