Only one vehicle was involved in this deadly wreck; the survivor isn’t yet saying how – or why – it happened …

A Portland Fire & Rescue crew member stands watch after emergency service providers removed the deceased driver and surviving passenger from this mangled SUV.  Desmond Moore photo

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
“It sounded like a MAX train exploded at the station,” is how neighbor Amy Farber described the sound she heard at 1:57 a.m. near at the MAX station in the Glenfair Neighborhood on E. Burnside Street, just west of 148^th Avenue, on May 16.

It wasn’t the light rail train.

Police say the concussive noise was caused by a 2012 Chevy Traverse SUV, speeding at nearly 90 mph, as it mowed down a tree, shattered a utility pole, and shot airborne – striking the second-story window of a Hazelwood Station apartment, before the wreckage slammed to the ground in a neighbor’s yard, west of the apartment building.

This second story window was damaged, officials say, by the Chevy Traverse as it caromed off the Hazelwood Station Apartments building after it smashed through a utility pole.

This almost-unrecognizable wreckage was, the day before this fatal crash, a brand new SUV. KATU TV image

“It was crazy! People came out from all over to see what happened; there were people screaming. Then, police and fire – all kinds of [emergency responders] all over the place,” Farber told East Portland News as she stood in the outer East Portland morning sun, and watched Portland General Electric crews restore the wiring on a utility pole they’d replaced overnight.

“Officers located one person deceased and another injured person,” reported Portland Police Bureau Public Information Officer Sgt. Peter Simpson. “Medical personnel transported the injured person to an area hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.”

But, Simpson added, the Bureau’s Major Crash Team had their work cut out for them, as they labored through the midnight darkness and into the dawn, investigating what witnesses of the aftermath called a one-car crash. It was clear that the SUV was speeding westbound on E. Burnside Street – where the limit is posted at 35 mph.

(Looking east) Westbound E. Burnside Street remains closed, as crews restore power to the area. The vehicle landed in a yard, behind the hedge, at the left side of this photo. The minivan in the driveway was also damaged when the SUV literally flew into the yard.

“The deceased is 33-year-old Shelby Lynn Williams of Southeast Portland,” Simpson said. “Investigators believe Williams was the driver, and was ejected from the vehicle during the crash. The passenger, 28-year-old Cleveland Nelson, was transported to an area hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.”

“Even though it’s only one [vehicle] lane in either direction,” Farber noted, “Cars go whizzing along here like it’s a freeway. But, I’ve never seen anything like this.”

Working through the night and into the day, PGE crews rewire a newly-replaced utility pole.

© 2012 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

This well-established market hasn’t moved far. Take a look at this story and you’ll find out what to expect this season …

Parkrose Farmers Market President Steve Voorhees welcomes everyone to their 2012 season.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Although it officially opened on the first Saturday in May, East Portland News timed our visit to the Parkrose Farmers Market for Mother’s Day weekend.

“Things are going great here, in our new location at Parkrose High School,” smiled Steve Voorhees, who is President of the Parkrose Farmers Market, the “Market Master”, and also a local grower.

With more than two dozen vendors each week, the Parkrose Farmers Market attracts many regular customers.

Gail Volk encourages shoppers to use their “Market Stamp Rewards Card” when they visit the market every week.

“We have much better visibility from NE 122^nd Avenue, being located in the school’s southeast parking lot,” Voorhees added. “Opening weekend, we had about 2,000 people visit the market.”

This year’s weekly promotion, he informed us, is the “Market Stamp Rewards Card”. “Every time you make a purchase from a vendor, you get a stamp.  After 10 stamps, you get a $1.00 discount off your 11^th purchase – it turns into a dollar coupon! So, instead one person winning a market bag giveaway, like in the past, everybody can win when they shop every week.”

Amanda Saecho of Wan and May’s Fresh Flowers says they always feature fresh, beautiful bouquets.

Parkrose Neighborhood Association volunteers Pat Marcum and Annette Stanhope offer coffee, to help support their neighborhood’s activities.

Although the market’s new space is a little smaller, it’s perfect for their 25 weekly vendors, Voorhees said. “And, rotating through, as their crops come in season, we’ll have 12 different growers coming in this year at different times. In June, all of the berries will be starting up – and we’ll have three berry vendors here each week.”

Although it’s no longer incorporated into the market’s space, an adjacent “public stage” area is available to bands who come by to fill the area with their music.

Shellane Ehlert of “Jar-O-Granola” says that, because there are too many preservatives in commercial products, she started making her own. Her family and friends encouraged her to sell the result – which she’s doing at the market. Learn more at her Facebook page: CLICK HERE.

“Before we go, let me thank our volunteers,” Voorhees concluded. “The Parkrose Music Boosters and the Parkrose Bronco Boosters have been a godsend to us, by helping us set up and take down the market canopies.”

The mid-County Parkrose Farmers Market is open every Saturday through October, from 9:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m.

The market accepts Oregon Trail Cards and also debit cards, thanks to a grant from Pacific Northwest Federal Credit Union.

They’re at Parkrose High – in the EAST parking lot – at 12003 NE Shaver Street, a half-block west of NE 122^nd Avenue. For more information, see their website: CLICK HERE, or contact Voorhees at manager@parkrosefarmersmarket.org.

3 Night Stand rocks out in the public space next to the market, filling the air with tunes that folks remember and love to dance to, they say – including music of CCR, Neil Young, Clapton, SRV, ZZ Top, Beatles, Stones, Byrds, and even the Monkees.

© 2012 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

See why firefighters say they “had their hands full” as they battled flames in two structures at the same time …

Perched precariously on the roof of the burning home, amid flames shooting high into the night sky, firefighters prepare to attack the blaze. Desmond Moore photo

By David F. Ashton
Calls to 9-1-1 came pouring in reporting a detached garage afire in Montavilla at 930 NE 70^th Avenue, on May 12 at 12:21 a.m. But – when Portland Fire & Rescue’s (PF&R) Truck 19 crew rolled up to the scene four minutes later – it was clear they’d be fighting two structure fires, not one.

“Firefighters found a detached garage engulfed in flames,” reported PF&R spokesman Lt. Damon Simmons. “But, the fire had also extended to the nearby home’s attic.”

Working on the roof, and also inside the garage, crews look for hotspots after the fire was extinguished. Desmond Moore photo

As they always do, some crew members first made sure all occupants are out safely while others began attacking the fires. “Firefighters with Mill Park’s Truck 7 soon came on-scene, and began opening up the ceiling inside the house to gain access to the fire.”

Having two buildings ablaze simultaneously, Simmons observed, adds additional complexity to a situation, because Battalion Chiefs must constantly reevaluate priorities and strategy during the firefighting effort.

The occupants were safe – including this woman and her dog – but they were nonetheless displaced by the fire. Desmond Moore photo

Both fires were declared under control at 12:47 a.m., but firefighters stayed on-scene for hours, while they shifted into “overhaul” mode – sorting through fire debris, looking for any remaining hot spots that could reignite. “Often, during this process,” Simmons said, “portions of the structure have to be cut away, because they pose a collapse danger, or block access to fire embers.”
The American Red Cross assisted the occupants to find shelter, because the home was declared uninhabitable.

“No one was injured by this fire,” Simmons concluded. “The cause remains undetermined; damages are estimated at $50,000.”

Their job completed, firefighters ladder down from the roof of the burned home. PF&R photo

© 2012 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Take a look, and see a sampling of what those who came out watched – at this delightful community event that spans many neighborhoods …

As the parade forms at Eastport Plaza, Ronald Beymer polishes up his 1963 Thunderbird convertible, making sure it’s ready for the parade.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
The 6^th Annual 82^nd Avenue of Roses Parade – the first Portland Rose Festival Sanctioned Event of the 2012 season – marched and rolled up the 44-block long thoroughfare, under puffy clouds and blue sky on April 28.

“The weather is delightful – for this we’re thankful,” said Eastport Plaza manager and parade organizer, Dianne Gill.

Members of the US Army’s 25^th Infantry Division ready their vehicles for the parade.

As word spread about the annual event, the crowds have grown over the years – with the 2012 edition attracting an estimated 4,000 people. Again this year, the parade route was from Eastport Plaza north to the Montavilla Neighborhood. “This special event draws positive attention to all the wonderful things East Portland has to offer,” Gill noted.

The parade is truly a collaborative effort among neighbors, businesses, and civic groups, Gill observed. “It’s great to have so many parade entries from outside East Portland come to participate.”

Volunteers Raelynn Evans, Kathryn Notson, and Nancy Chapin check parade entrants in as they arrive.

Already, Gill said, the committee is planning for the 7^th Edition of the 82^nd Avenue of Roses Parade – scheduled for April 17, 2013.

2012 82nd Avenue of Roses Parade Photo Album

Volunteers Cody Watkins, a Serendipity Center student, and PSU student Nicole Agnew – two of dozens of volunteers – block traffic, as the parade approaches.

Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1442 serve as the parade’s Color Guard.

This banner lets folks know it’s officially “parade time” in outer East Portland.

Portland Police Bureau East Precinct Commander Michael Lee drives the parade’s official Pace Car.

Grand Marshall Nick Storie, the man who’s rehabilitating the historic Bob White Theater on Foster Road, says he’s thrilled to be included in the event.

The streets are lined with a folks, as the happy parade makes its way north, toward SE Division Street.

Walking with the Burgerville entry is Portland Mayor Sam Adams.

Following the magic ball, a colorful, swirling and soaring dragon – animated by the Lee’s Association Lion Dance Team – is always a welcome participant.

Riding in this Gresham Ford Mustang are leaders of the East Portland Chamber of Commerce, with their president, Judy Leach of Adventist Medical Center, sitting high and waving to everyone.

Yup! It’s a real army tank – restored and driven by volunteers who say “We love seeing the looks of peoples’ faces when we roll by!”

Portland City Commissioner Amanda Fritz is welcomed warmly as she again participates in this outer East Portland event.

One of several drum lines from the Last Regiment of Syncopated Drummers again deliver a high-energy, heart-pounding performance.

Past “Spirit of Portland” award winner, and parade sponsor, Richard Kiely of Home Run Graphics, again participates in the parade – with his wife, Princess Gail, at the wheel.

Many of the many specialty vehicles to be on display at the Carnival Days Community Fair that follows, also participate in the parade.

The 2012 82^nd Avenue of Roses Parade was presented by Eastport Plaza, and was sponsored by Walmart, with a Neighborhood Small Grant from SE Uplift, by Charlie Bretz Tire Factory, by the Portland Tribune, and also by Powellhurst-Gilbert Neighborhood Association, Portland Community College, Fast Signs, S2 Imaging, Portland Chinese Times, The Support Group, and East Portland News.

For more information about the 82^nd Avenue of Roses Business Association, see their website: CLICK HERE.

© 2012 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Look here – and you’ll see all the fun that followed the annual 82nd Avenue of Roses Parade! It ranged from hot cars to “atomic-hot” chicken wings …

Portland Police Bureau East Precinct Cadets Bailey Berg, Cody Summers, and Gabrial Rickard greet the public at the Carnival Days Community Fair.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Folks looking for more fun after the annual 82^nd Avenue of Roses Parade was over on April 28 found it at the “Carnival Days Community Fair” at Eastport Plaza.

On the main stage was a wide variety of cultural performances, featuring Asian, Hispanic, and musical performers, an interactive martial arts demonstration, balloon artists, and more.

Folks fill the “midway”, as one of many groups provides unique cultural entertainment.

“Community businesses, service organizations, and Eastport Plaza merchants get together to provide this fun-filled day as a gift to our community,” explained the organizer, and shopping center manager, Dianne Gill. “That’s why all of our entertainment attractions are provided free of charge.”

2012 Carnival Days Community Fair Photo Album

These young performers “fuel up” on a very American treat – pizza!

Funtastic Traveling Shows provides a thrilling roller-coaster ride for Cassidy Didder and Angelique Herzberg.

At the East Portland Neighborhood Office booth, Hazelwood Neighborhood Chair Arlene Kimura helps neighbors get more involved in their local government.

The Community Fair Cruise-In continues to be a popular attraction of the event, as 100 classic, custom, and specialty vehicles vie for trophies.

Darin Campbell, with Coffin Cruisers Hearse Club, said he “accidentally” bought his vehicle on eBay in 2008 – but now loves showing off his 1973 Cadillac Victoria hearse.

Casondra Probert helps her little nephew enjoy his very first pony ride.

Performing one of their traditional dances are the “Hmong Colorful Waterlilies”.

It’s 10-foot-tall circus artist Heather Pearl, bending down to say hello.

Taking the challenge seriously, Quentin Parker shows he’s downed his 15 “Atomic Hot Wings”, and is this year’s Hot Wings Challenge winner. “My, they’re really hot!” he says.

Eastport Wing Stop manager Alan Shaffer congratulates this year’s challenge winner, Quentin Parker.

Eastport Plaza General Manager Dianne Gill says the shopping center is happy to provide much-needed old-fashioned free family fun.

Since 1960, Eastport Plaza has long been a respected part of its community. To visit its website, CLICK HERE.

© 2012 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

From the “Strange but True” file: You’ll find this difficult to believe, even after you read it …

By David F. Ashton
Most suspected tipsy drivers are pulled over at night, after they’ve been seen swerving all over the road.

But on May 17, at about noon, when a Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) investigations sergeant pulled into the Hansen Building’s patrol parking lot at 12240 NE Glisan Street, he beheld a car stopped next to the entry gate.

“There were two people inside,” said MCSO Public Information Officer Lt. Steve Alexander, “and the vehicle was blocking access to the trash receptacles next to the entry gate.”

After observing the driver leave the car, Alexander continued, the sergeant contacted a captain inside the building, and asked him to go outside and check out the individual.

A MCSO Deputy arrests this man, 26-year-old Stephen Charles Wheelon, reportedly suspected of drunk driving – in the law enforcement agency’s own parking lot. MCDC photo

Their assessment of the driver didn’t take long. “They called a patrol deputy to the scene,” Alexander said, “who arrested the driver for DUII. He is identified as 26-year-old Stephen Charles Wheelon of Vancouver.”

Although MCDC records show Wheelon was “Released on Own Recognizance” from jail later in the day, he still had to make alternate transportation plans back home, because his vehicle had been impounded.

© 2012 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Here’s another example of how neighbors are doing more than simply talking about building a sense of community – and reducing crime – in this far outer East Portland neighborhood …

Volunteers use a garden tractor to rototill the grassy lawn at the Lynwood Friends Church, as the Rosewood Neighborhood Community Garden project breaks ground.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
The Rosewood Initiative – a non-profit organization dedicated to making the 15-block area around the intersection of 162nd Avenue and E. Burnside Street a desirable place to live, work, and play – has taken another step from the theoretical to the practical, as they introduced a new project not long ago.

See other stories East Portland News has covered on the Rosewood Initiative: CLICK HERE.

The latest project is the creation of a community garden space. They broke ground – literally – when they turned over sod at the Lynwood Friends Church property, on SE 162nd Avenue near SE Alder Street, on the afternoon of May 8.

“Outgrowing Hunger” Executive Director Adam Kohl holds a board, to help the tractor driver rototill neatly-laid-out garden beds.

As more than 20 volunteers prepared garden beds, Adam Kohl – Executive Director of Outgrowing Hunger – paused for a moment to speak with East Portland News.

“This garden is the result of years of interest from a lot of organizations and people in this area,” explained Kohl. “It’s the result of an overlap of interest, need, desire, and availability that has all come together, at the right place, and at the right time.”

Volunteers further turn the soil, mixing in amenities.

Kohl referred to himself as the “point of contact”, and his organization as the “convener” of the project.

“We’re the energizers, the visionaries,” Kohl said. “Specializing in gardens, we try to get ‘existing movement’ of people and groups pointed in the same direction, to create something that will benefit the community, that may or may not otherwise happen.”

Rosewood Initiative board member Rex Hollingsworth of Rex Heating & Air Conditioning, said the working with Outgrowing Hunger was a natural fit.

“People in this community have been trying to find pace to grow fresh vegetables,” Hollingsworth said. “Many of the people who live in this area are low-income; some of them nearly starving. This garden won’t solve hunger here in mid-County, but we think this is a real and meaningful step in the right direction.”

Rosewood Initiative board member Rex Hollingsworth and director Jenny Glass watch the garden come into existence, along with Adam Kohl.

Hollingsworth commended Kohl’s efforts; getting together folks from the church, other volunteers, and management and residents of the Stark Firs Apartments located immediately to the north of the garden space. “The apartment complex will provide water for the garden.”

The project is starting off with 5,000 square feet of planting space, Kohl said. If successful, the church will allow the project to expand.

Garden fees are reasonable, organizer say, and until all spaces are reserved, no one will be turned away for inability to pay.

Unlike other community gardens, this project offers “sliding scale garden fees” ranging from $30 to $120 per full season to pay for water, compost and other direct expenses. “But, nobody will be excluded for a lack of money,” Kohl said

If you live in the Rosewood area, and want a garden plot – sign up right away, before they’re all reserved. Register online at the Outgrowing Hunger’s website: CLICK HERE.

© 2012 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Find out why neighbors say they’re outraged at the violent activity “Section Eight” housing seems to have brought to their neighborhood …

Into the day following the shooting, Portland Police Bureau detectives are on scene – it’s the left side of this duplex – in the Wilkes neighborhood, investigating a murder.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Many years ago, a “Light Up for the Holidays” contest in Wilkes Community Group – the farthest northeast neighborhood in Portland – brought East Portland News out to photograph the Christmas decorations, including at a home on NE Fremont Court.

But, in the waning hours of May 9, that cul-de-sac was lit up with another kind of lighting – those of emergency and police vehicles, called because a man was shot to death at his front door.

When Portland Police Bureau (PPB) North Precinct officers arrived on-scene at 11:38 p.m., they found the deceased man in the entrance of a duplex at 14811 N.E. Fremont Court.

At the front door of this duplex, three men are said to have cut down a man with a fusillade of bullets.

A next door neighbor told reporters she heard gunshots ring out – followed by what sounded to her like two women shrieking and crying.

Officers immediately began searching the neighborhood for suspects, PPB Public Information Officer Sgt. Peter Simpson said. A Portland Police K-9 got the scent, and the dog led its partner and other officers north and slightly east of the crime scene.

Bullet holes like this one are clearly visible – the bullets having been dug out by criminalists who processed the crime scene overnight.

Witnesses disagree about the final destination of the police. Some it was the Walnut Grove Apartments at 3835 NE 152nd Avenue; others say it was at the adjoining Village Garden Apartments at 15298 NE Sandy Boulevard that was swarmed by law enforcement personnel.

“Three men were located near NE 152^nd Avenue off Sandy Boulevard,” is all Simpson said. “They were detained, and transported to the Detective Division.”

Until the early hours of the following day, PPB homicide detectives and criminalists processed the crime scene, Simpson added. Gang Enforcement Team officers also assisted in the investigation.
“The victim has been identified as 29-year-old Kenneth Ray Henry,” said Simpson after the autopsy. “The Oregon State Medical Examiner determined that Henry died of multiple gunshot wounds.”

Police are charging these three men with murder: (left to right) 23-year-old Xabian Robert Riley, 24-year-old Tracey Christopher Lomax, and 21-year-old Marcellus A. Allen. MCDC photos

Detectives aren’t yet saying whether the shooting might be gang or drug-related, Simpson added. He later released the names of the men arrested and charged with murder: 23-year-old Xabian Robert Riley, 24-year-old Tracey Christopher Lomax and 21-year-old Marcellus A. Allen.

Neighbors venturing out of their homes the following day talked together on the sidewalk, as they watched the investigation continue – and watched family and friends of the deceased come to the duplex.

“When we built or bought our homes here, long ago,” reflected Sally Diega Sutton, “this was a quiet and peaceful neighborhood. Then, they started building duplexes here – I think that one is owned by a company somewhere else – and the trouble began. I don’t think they pick their tenants very well.”

Although the three others standing with Diega Sutton declined to be identified, they agreed they’d heard that the shooting was a “gangster hit” – not an accident.

This spilled blood remains on the porch, providing a chilling reminder to local residents that violent crime has moved into the Wilkes neighborhood.

In fact, according to public information, this duplex has been owned since 2004 by a “limited liability corporation” located in Sunnyside, California, since 2004.

Others nodded when Diega Sutton concluded, “Many of us planned to retire here. But now, with all the drug and gang problems moving into the area – maybe it’s time to get out. But where to move is the question.”

According to Multnomah County Detention Center records, Riley is being held at their facility without bond on one count of Murder, as well as Lomax and Allen – who additionally are being charged with parole or post-parole supervision violations.

Anyone with information about this shooting is asked to contact homicide detectives. Detective Eric Kammerer can be reached at (503) 823-0762, (Erik.Kammerer@PortlandOregon.gov) – and Detective Anthony Merrill can be reached at (503) 823-4033, or (Anthony.Merrill@PortlandOregon.gov).

© 2012 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

If you haven’t voted – it may be too late to mail in your ballot to be counted on May 15, but you can still vote. Here’s a guide to what the candidates have said when visiting outer East Portland – and, vital information about where you can take your ballot to drop it off …

It’s probably too late to mail your ballot! Take it to this secure, handy ballot drop box at in the back of the parking lot of Midland Library, 805 S.E. 122nd Avenue, a block south of SE Stark Street.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Because all ballots must be received by 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday, May 15, to be counted – postmarks don’t count – Multnomah County Elections Division’s spokesman Eric Sample advises, “Make sure your vote is, indeed, counted. Take your ballot to a secure drop-off site.”

Your vote matters
We hear it over and over – people say they feel that their vote doesn’t make any difference in these primary elections for City and County officials.

But, your vote really does count in these City of Portland and Multnomah County elections.

Here’s why: If every registered voter in outer East Portland cast their ballot – we would be the ones electing our next Portland City and Multnomah County commissioners – not someone living downtown or on the west side!

Even a candidate doesn’t get the “50% plus one vote” to clinch the election – requiring a runoff election in the fall for their seat – the successful candidate in each race will have direct control of how millions of tax dollars, collected from you, will be spent.

Here’s “instant background” on several of the candidates, in their own words, by reading the following East Portland News articles about recent Candidate Forums:

• Portland Mayor: Hales vs. Brady vs. Smith in Parkrose: CLICK HERE.
• Meet Portland City Council candidates who appeared in Gateway: Position #1 Fritz vs. Altizer and Position #4 Mark White: CLICK HERE.
• Multnomah County Commissioner: Shiprack vs. Burkett: CLICK HERE.

At any Multnomah County Library, such as Midland in outer East Portland, you can drop off your ballot.

Official drop-off sites
You can travel to the Multnomah County Elections Office on the north side of SE Belmont, between SE 10th Avenue and 11th Avenue, or south on SE 11th Avenue (on the east, or driver’s side). Or, just drive to your local library instead.

24-hour ballot drop sites and ballot drop-off boxes are located in all 17 Multnomah County Libraries, including one for outer East Portland residents at Midland Library, 805 SE 122nd Avenue. (Box location: parking lot).

Or, East County readers may want to use one of these libraries:

• Fairview-Columbia: 1520 NE Village Street, Fairview
• Gresham: 385 NW Miller Street, Gresham
• Rockwood: 17917 SE Stark Street
• And, East Portland readers, check out one of these libraries:
• Belmont: 1038 SE 39th Avenue
• Gregory Heights: 7921 NE Sandy Boulevard
• Holgate: 7905 SE Holgate Boulevard
• Hollywood: 4040 NE Tillamook Street
• Sellwood-Moreland: 7860 SE 13th Avenue
• Woodstock: 6008 S.E. 49th Avenue

Ballot drop boxes are official and secure places for voters to deposit ballots for receipt at the Multnomah County Elections Division. Boxes will be emptied as needed, and then for the last time promptly at 8:00 p.m. on Election Night.

© 2012 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Dispute over a cell phone programming card apparently led to the shooting deaths of a mother and son, a witness says …

Down the hill from the murder scene, police cars block of SE Harold Street, allowing only homicide detectives into the area.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Folks in this part of the Powellhurst-Gilbert Neighborhood are saying that foreclosed and abandoned homes along SE Harold Street, near SE 136^th Avenue, have attracted a “rough element” into what was once a solid, working-class neighborhood.

A man, reportedly firing off a shotgun in the middle of the street, caught the attention of neighbor Ken Criswell on May 5 about 9:15 p.m. “I thought it was fireworks at first. But when I looked down the street, I saw a lot of commotion, and heard people yelling,” Criswell said. “Then, the cop cars started coming in from all over the place.”

To the south of the location, at SE 138^th Avenue at SE Ramona Street, an officer informs a driver that the area is closed to all traffic – possibly for hours.

Portland Police Bureau (PPB) East Precinct district officers rolled into the area to find a chaotic scene, a sergeant later told East Portland News. Officers closed down roads – few of them are through streets in this area, near the Springwater Trail – to contain the situation, and perhaps also the gunmen.

This man, 20-year-old William Cole McCamman, is arrested at the scene, minutes after law enforcement officers flood into the area (MCDC booking photo.) The image to the right is from McCamman’s Facebook page.

Police found their suspect, later identified as 20-year-old William Cole McCamman, within minutes of arriving on the scene. Official records show he was taken into custody at 9:24 p.m.

“Following the autopsy conducted by the Oregon State Medical Examiner,” reported PPB Public Information Officer Lt. Robert King, “the deceased have been identified 32-year-old Josh Smith, and his mother 54-year-old Tamara Smith. The manner and cause of death of the victims was gunshot wounds.”

Police provided no information, and an unidentified male refused comment when East Portland News stopped by the house the following day.

As the investigation continues late into the night, police keep the area sealed off.

But, a young man who said he also lived in the home, eyewitness 19-year-old Giovanni Jorgensen, spoke freely with a KGW-TV reporter. He stated that a fight broke out between himself and Josh Smith over a stolen cell phone SIM card – an electronic device that programs it to operate with a given carrier’s system.

Jorgensen further asserted that McCamman took his side in the escalating argument, and moments later, McCamman shot Smith on the home’s front lawn with a pistol. When Smith’s mother, Tamara Smith, blocked the doorway and called the police, Jorgensen said McCamman put down the pistol, grabbed a shotgun, and fired.

The area, marked with crime scene tape, is visible even from some distance.

On May 7, McCamman appeared in Multnomah County Court and faced two counts of aggravated murder. Records show he remains in custody, without bail, at the Multnomah County Detention Center.

© 2012 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

See which students attending Parkrose School District middle and elementary schools were honored for their academic and social excellence in 2012 …

Friends and family await the start of the “2012 Parkrose Lodge #179 Ancient Free and Accepted Masons” Outstanding Student Awards.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
As has been their tradition for more than a decade, “Parkrose Lodge #179 Ancient Free and Accepted Masons” again honored outstanding students in Parkrose School District elementary and middle schools on April 11.

“Masons strongly emphasize the importance of education, and supporting the youth in today’s community,” explained the Lodge’s Worshipful Master Jim Akers. “Throughout history, education continues to be a ‘great equalizer’ in society. Regardless of their background, those students value education can do well.”

To encourage both good student citizenship and scholarship, Akers said, they present these annual awards. “A boy and girl from each school are honored, and their names are engraved on a permanent plaque that is displayed at their school.”

Parkrose Middle School

Honored Parkrose Middle School students, their families, and Masonic Lodge officials Junior Warden, Ombe Ya Makano, and Worshipful Master Jim Akers, gather for a group photo.

Presenting Parkrose Middle School Outstanding Student Mayrangela Cervantes.

Parkrose Middle School teacher Aron Wagner presented the evening’s first awardee, Mayrangela Cervantes.

An art and creative writing project starts the year, Wagner said.  Mayrangela wrote about how her name is a combination of her mother’s and grandmother’s names, and how she loves her name – that she “gets to carry around something from the people I love best”.

Wagner continued, “I appreciate how Mayrangela treats her little sister with respect – and stays after school to help younger students and other AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) students.

“She’s a leader in my class.  In the mock Congressional Hearing class, not only did she give a powerful performance, she worked with others to get their presentations together.  She also worked after school – not just in her group but in other groups, and even in other classes, to help them to get their presentations ready.

“And, she helps students feel happy to accept themselves,” Wagner went on. “She’s never one to make others feel dumb. She’s not snooty about her intelligence or drive, and she is full of humor. She’s smart, and knows how to have fun.”

Wagner concluded, “Mayrangela is a vital part of her basketball team; has volunteered as a translator for ‘Parent Night’; and spoke eloquently to the School Board about how the AVID program was helping her get college ready. From all the staff at Parkrose who are lucky enough to have you in our classes, Mayrangela, I say how happy I am to present this award to you.”

Presenting Parkrose Middle School Outstanding Student Kevin Dang.

Parkrose Middle School instructor Carrie Younglund told about their male honoree, Kevin Dang.

“Kevin leads by example, and would help anyone,” Younglund said, “whether a student or staff member. He’s in the National Junior Honor Society, and is the director and editor of our school’s ‘daily video’.

“He is dedicated to a job well done. He spends 1½ to two hours, four days a week, preparing the daily video bulletin, running a camera, setting lighting, directing actors, preparing shooting schedules, determining content, and doing the editing, effects, music and credits.”

Younglund said that Dang is very hard-working, and is an innovative student.

“He is always on task, and always positive. Kevin brings new and interesting ideas to whatever topic he might be studying. His writing skills are far beyond expectations.

“I’m proud to be presenting this award to Kevin,” Younglund concluded, “and I know he has an incredible future in front of him.”

Russell Academy of Academic Achievement

Russell Academy of Academic Achievement awardees and teachers gather for a group photo.

Presenting Russell Academy of Academic Achievement Outstanding Student Emily Miller.

Russell Academy of Academic Achievement teacher Jane O’Brien talked said why Emily Miller was one of two students to be named for their school’s award.

“Emily is graceful, insightful; she’s delightful,” O’Brien smiled. “Someday I expect to see some poetry written and published by her. She is going to be the ‘next Maja Angelou’. She has a good turn of phrase, and a good way with words.

“Math is not her favorite subject, but Emily never lets it go,” continued O’Brien, “and continues to work hard at it.

“There are so many things I appreciate about Emily.

“Her peers always want to be in her group; wanting to partner with her. They always ask her to give them feedback for their work, and look to her for leadership all the time.

“I am hoping that she’s one of those students that will come back and visit me, and let me know what she’s doing in her future,” O’Brien said.

Presenting Russell Academy of Academic Achievement Outstanding Student Jackson Montani.

Russell Academy student Jackson Montani was the subject of teacher Rosalind Curry’s praise.

“Compassionate, caring, self-directed, self-confident, eager, natural, pleasant – if you look at a dictionary, you’ll find a picture of Jackson and by each of those words,” Curry said.

“What makes Jackson really stand out as remarkable student, and all-around great person, is the fact that he has never wavered from his ‘true being’. He stands for honesty, truth, and justice for all – Jackson is an ‘equal opportunity wonder kid’.

“He knows about perseverance, too. When he takes on a task that may prove a bit challenging, he will stay the course until he’s conquered the problem. That innate aptitude of his demonstrates his determination to achieve excellence.

Last year Jackson served as his classroom’s Student Council Representative, added Curry. “This position is only given to the student who is proven to be a leader.  It means he’s well spoken, and is well able to present school information to his class – keeping them informed and involved in school and community service events.”

Turning to the student himself, Curry concluded, “Jackson, always remember to believe in yourself, and you will continue to succeed, at every turn of your life’s path.”

Prescott Elementary School

Prescott Elementary School’s principal, staff, and honored students, smile at the award presentation.

Prescott Elementary School Principal Michael Lopes attended the awards ceremony again this year, saying, “I’m proud of all our students – and especially these two here today. They’re part of student leadership in our school, and are wonderful role models for our students.”

Presenting Prescott Elementary School Outstanding Student Damian Heide.

Prescott Elementary student Damian Heide was praised by teacher Julie Ugarte, who began her remarks, “I’ve been teaching at Prescott for 15 years. This means I’ve been there since before Damian was born!

“I’ve had the privilege of being placed in Damian’s life for two years; he came as a new student to our school, in fourth grade.”

The teachers at Prescott and fourth and fifth grade combine classes in their fourth and fifth year, Ugarte explained, “Which means I’d be his teacher for two years. Little did I know at that time how lucky I would be. Damian was fairly shy and reserved at first – watching, inquiring about school, and classroom rules. And he was learning to make new friends.

“As time went on, he became more comfortable in his surroundings, and this is when I really got to know Damian,” Ugarte continued.

“However, I’m not the only one who thinks Damian is pretty amazing.  I sent out an e-mail asking other teachers who have come into contact with Damien to describe him in one word. Their responses: compassionate, courteous, positive, genuine, helpful, considerate, respective, thoughtful, well mannered, responsible, sweet, and humorous.

“He can be trusted to give his best effort in anything and everything he is asked to do.

“Lastly let’s salute the people whomade Damian the person he is today; his family. At ‘parent teacher conferences’ with his family – that means his mom and stepdad, his stepmom and his dad and his grandma – they all attend every conference. They are an amazing family; five people who are investing their time and energy into one very special boy.

“Damian, I’m so proud of you, and of all you done and all you’ve accomplished,” Ugarte concluded. “I know, throughout your life, you’re working on a strong foundation for yourself; and you’ll continue to do so.”

Presenting Prescott Elementary School Outstanding Student Annie Vong.

Chris Gifford, another teacher at Prescott Elementary School, said everyone had agreed that Annie Vong was the “obvious choice” for the school’s other award.

“Annie is a good friend to many of the classmates and teachers at Prescott Elementary. She is compassionate and kind to everyone she meets. And she is always the first to offer her fellow classmates help – and, on many occasions, she has volunteered to stay in at recess to help students in her classroom.

“And Annie is also an amazing artist,” added Gifford. “I know someday I’ll read about her in a magazine or newspaper because of her artistic abilities. She has decorated our classroom with many amazing and beautiful drawings. She also excels at her studies, and gives 100% at whatever task she is asked to take on.

“She’s the first to complement, and last to complain. If you took a survey in our school about Annie, you’d hear countless stories from teachers and students about how Annie’s empathy, generosity, and friendliness has affected their lives.

“It truly has been a pleasure teaching her for the last two years,” Gifford said. “It is also an honor to be here tonight to celebrate this award. I know Annie will do amazing marvelous things in her life.”

Sacramento Elementary School

This happy group represents Sacramento Elementary School – including Principal Stevie Blakely (in the red coat), who also announced her retirement at the awards event.

Our friend at Sacramento Elementary School of many years, Principal Stevie Blakely, addressed the audience: “This is my 10th event here at the Parkrose Masonic awards, and this is my last year at Sacramento.

“I can’t think of any better way of celebrating my last year as principal than honoring these two amazingly wonderful students here tonight.”

Presenting Sacramento Elementary School Outstanding Student Jakob Davis.

Sacramento Elementary School student Jakob Davis’ honors were presented by teacher Sherri Brown.

Addressing his parents, Brown began, “I thank you so much for sharing Jakob with me for the last two years. He’s a young man with so much motivation and eagerness to learn.  He consistently gives a 100% effort in everything that he does in class. This ranges from building a ‘space shuttle’ that can successfully protect a ‘raw egg astronaut’ – to learning how to calculate the volume of a triangular prism.

“One thing we all love about him is Jakob’s positive attitude,” Brown continued. “No matter what we’re working on, you can ‘see the wheels turning in his head’ as he processes and calculates what he’s learning. He is most definitely a self-directed learner.

“Jakob is also a model citizen at Sacramento School. He is well-liked by his peers, and highly respected by the adults. I see in him honesty and conviction; he’s quiet but ready to speak up on important issues. He’s a strong leader and writer, and has a love of learning.”

Brown concluded with an acrostic poem:

J is for the joyful attitude he brings to learning;
A is for the active learning that he does every day;
K is for being kindhearted – especially when he’s helping a lost kindergartener find his dad;
O is for being over excited, and making fun comments as he learns; and
B is for having no boundaries about what he can learn.

Presenting Sacramento Elementary School Outstanding Student Kayley King.

Sacramento Elementary instructor Julie Klasnic told about the school’s girl honoree, Kayley King.

“Kayley is the daughter of two Parkrose teachers, Doug and Angie King. I guess you could say I’ve known about Kayley since before she was born! She is a triplet. Her brother Greg and sister Emily could not be here tonight; they’re wonderful and amazing kids too.

“Kayley is a very intelligent and enthusiastic learner,” Klasnic went on. “She loves to read. She understands everything she reads, and it is impossible to distract her when she’s involved with a book she truly loves.

“Writing is another talent of Kayley’s. Whether she’s writing about wanting to be a WNBA player, visiting Virginia Beach, or the ‘Adventures of Mike the Monkey’ and ‘Todd the Toad’ – her stories are well-written and full of personality. She’s particularly bright in math – ready for advanced work while others are doing the basics.

“She is engaged in whatever she is learning in science, history, or playing an instrument, and music.  She has real curiosity about everything.”

Klasnic paused, and added, “Kayley is also a fantastic athlete; she’s played on a tournament basketball team. One day she may indeed play in the WNBA. She’s also lead pitcher  for the school softball team, pitching at 47.8 mph.

“More importantly, Kayley is a beautiful human being, humble about her talents.  She volunteers to help others whenever the opportunity arises.  If she sees a classmate needing help with their homework or completing a task, she jumps in without being asked.”

Shaver Elementary School

Here are the students and faculty representing Shaver Elementary School.

Presenting Shaver Elementary School Outstanding Student Kien Le.

At the awards, Shaver Elementary School’s honored boy student, Kien Le, was introduced by teacher Donna Newcomb.

“How can it be that I had Kien two years ago when he was in second grade – and now that he is in fifth grade?” quizzed Newcomb. “It’s because he skipped a grade!

“Kien has also excelled as an athlete and a student leader. He’s done a great job.

“Kien represented us on our chess team,” Newcomb added. “He keeps me on toes, to provide challenges in all areas: reading, writing, and mathematics.

“It’s such a pleasure to be here to speak about him. I can hardly wait to see what happens in Kien’s life, in the next few years.”

Presenting Shaver Elementary School Outstanding Student Leticia Garcia-Jacuinde.

The last student to be honored was Shaver Elementary’s Leticia Garcia-Jacuinde

Her teacher, Greg Nakashima, said, “Leticia an outstanding student. In fact, she is the model student.

“And, she has life skills: Responsibility, respect, sense of humor, flexibility, time management – you name it; this is her,” Nakashima reported.

“Leticia works so hard. Her effort and her determination and motivation will help her be whatever she wants to be, when she grows up.

“Leticia is so motivated to succeed. Talk about a pleasure to have a student in your class – Leticia isn’t one of the ‘those squirrely little rascals’. I can depend on her to the appropriate, listening.”

Parkrose Masons John Tucker and Wes Walters prepare to serve cake to top off the celebration.

And there you have it – great students from Parkrose schools.

© 2012 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Discover why law enforcement agencies say these events are vitally important for community safety. And, learn where you can dispose of your own unused medications any day …

Crime Prevention Coordinator Samantha Freeman, and Diversion Investigator Jenna Akiyama from the US Drug Enforcement Administration, help Joyce Tebo dispose of her unused medications in Gateway.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
As part of a national effort, local law enforcement agencies made it easy for people to rid their medicine cabinets of unused prescription drugs and over-the-counter remedies on April 28.

In the Gateway Fred Meyer lot along NE 102^nd Avenue, Portland Police Bureau (PPB) East Precinct officers and command staff, as well as the Portland Office of Neighborhood Involvement (ONI) crime prevention folks, and a representative from the US Drug Enforcement Administration, together provided a safe place to dump their drugs.

Portland Police Bureau East Precinct Neighborhood Response Tteam Sergeant Wendi Steinbronn loads one of the sixteen boxes of discarded medications collected April 28^th into a truck.

Neighbor Joyce Tebo pulled up, and presented a bag full of her unused medications to the collection station.

“I wanted to get rid of the medications we’re not going to use,” Tebo said. “I didn’t want to flush them down the toilet, and have them end up in the rivers.  I wanted to get rid of them a safe way.”

She came out to the turn-in event, Tebo said, because having it sponsored and operated by the police gave it “official authority”. “Because it’s our police, I know these will be properly handled and disposed of – just like they say they will do.”

One of the more than 100 folks who dropped off medications on April 28^th places his unused medications in a box for disposal.

ONI Crime Prevention Coordinator Katherine Anderson talked with East Portland News about their day’s mission. “It’s really important to have medications, especially prescription drugs, turned in – because it’s one way to make sure drugs don’t fall into the wrong hands. It prevents them from getting ‘on the streets, eventually reaching those who would use them illegally.”

Of particular concern, Anderson said, are young people. “It’s not uncommon for kids to ‘raid’ their parents’ medicine cabinets, looking for drugs they think might get them high. But, drugs that help some people can kill others. Part of what we’re doing here today is educating people about medication safety.”

The drugs collected were to be incinerated, containers and all, revealed ONI Crime Prevention Coordinator Samantha Freeman. “Many people think flushing drugs down the toilet is the ideal way to dispose of them – but that’s been proven to pollute our rivers and aquifers.”

It looks as if one of the 16 drug collection boxes at the Gateway site is already almost full.

Freeman reminded visitors that they can always dispose of drugs at the PPB East Precinct lobby on SE 106^th Avenue, at the secure drop box from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday. “You can bring your prescription medications, over-the-counter pills, vitamins – but not ‘sharps or inhalers’ – and know they’ll be safely and securely disposed of.”

In total, the one-day event at Gateway collected 16 boxes of medications, a total of 560 pounds of them, from more than 100 people who visited the site.

At the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office Hanson Building, a visitor drops off a bag of prescription medications.

On the same day, the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office was also holding a similar event.

“Approximately eleven boxes – about 400 lbs of prescription medications – were turned in, including those from the Med-Return box in the lobby,” reported MCSO Public Information Officer, Lt. Steven Alexander.

“Be sure to let your readers know that the Med-Return box is always available at the building [at 12240 N.E. Glisan Street] during regular lobby hours,” Alexander added.

So, with these two secure locations to which you can take your unused, discarded medications in outer East Portland – there’s no longer any excuse to keep them at home, or to flush them down the toilet!

© 2012 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News