Many drivers caught in the home-bound commute wondered why NE Halsey Street was blocked, or very slow moving, on March 11th. These exclusive photos tell the story …

Traffic is backed up on NE Halsey Street – shown here from the “split” back to the I-84 offramp – due to a one-vehicle accident.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Home-bound traffic along NE Halsey Street in the Hazelwood Neighborhood is usually slowing-going during typical rush hours. But during one evening’s recent commute, traffic came to a complete standstill at times, due to a single-vehicle smashup. It happened at about 5:30 p.m. on March 11.

“This big white pickup truck just drove up onto the sidewalk,” an employee of Gossip Restaurant & Lounge, 11340 NE Halsey Street, told us, as he sat in his car. “The truck just drove right up here and smashed right through the pole. Our lights went out; we’re closing for the night.”

There appears to be surprisingly little damage to this truck – but it’s clear that the driver smacked into the utility pole, almost dead center.

Drivers not familiar with the neighborhood – some streets go through, and some dead-end – had no choice but to creep eastward on NE Halsey Street until they passed the wreck, and Pacific Power’s crew starting to replace the severed wooden utility pole, just after the road “split” at NE Weidler Street.

According to a Portland Police Bureau District Officer at the scene, the driver of the pickup truck showed no signs of intoxication or impairment. “He just said he must have fallen asleep behind the wheel.”

A Pacific Power employee salvages parts from the smashed utility pole before a new pole is installed.

© 2010 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

See exclusive photos of her selection ceremony, and learn why she says she’s looking forward to representing Northeast outer East Portland during this year’s citywide festivities …

Parkrose High School’s Principal, Ana Gonzalez, greets students who fill the school’s Theater for the 2010 Portland Rose Festival Princess Selection Ceremony.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
The Parkrose High School Theater was packed with students and family members, as the school’s 2010 Portland Rose Festival Princess Selection Ceremony began promptly at 2:35 p.m. on March 11.

“We welcome students, family members and dignitaries,” smiled Principal Ana Gonzalez, “to this, our 24th Princess Selection Ceremony.”

The Master of Ceremonies, Parkrose High student Nathan Clements, got right into the program by introducing the five-member Parkrose High School Court.

Cheers ring out as candidates from the Parkrose High School Court – Bryanna Phillips, Rebecca “Becci” Read, Yian Saechao, Molly Voorhees, and Belinda Washington – are introduced to the audience.

The 2009 Portland Rose Festival Parkrose Princess, Ciara Dines, addresses the audience and advises this year’s candidates.

Stepping up to the podium, the school’s 2009 Portland Rose Festival Princess, Ciara Dines, received a warm welcome from the audience. “My advice to you is to experience every moment, and enjoy it to the fullest. Either running to be selected, or being a Portland Rose Festival Princess, is a great experience. I thank you for choosing me [last year] and giving me the opportunity to represent Parkrose.”

Tension builds to the announcement this year’s Parkrose Princess.

Princess Becci Read acknowledges her selection.

Introducing Princess Becci Read
As her first act as 2010 Portland Rose Festival Parkrose Princess, Becci Read stepped up to the microphone and spoke to the audience.

“Thank you so much for this opportunity,” Princess Becci said. “I know that so many of you told me that I could do it. You supported me throughout this. I just want to say thank you again. I really appreciate your support….”

Princess Becci Read greets her subjects during the Selection Ceremony.

Immediately after she was selected, Princess Becci told us, “The important thing about this, is the great experience of being involved in the selection process. And, more important [than that] has been getting to know the other candidates.  They have all been really supportive. It’s an amazing experience; I think everyone should be involved [in some way], if they can.”

Princess Becci said she was a “Parkrose girl, through-and-through” – having attending Sacramento Elementary, Parkrose Middle School, and now Parkrose High School.

“I look forward to representing Parkrose at the 2010 Portland Rose Festival; I want to show Portland how amazing Parkrose is,” Princess Becci said. “We are an awesome school, even though we are way out here in outer east Portland.”

Princess Becci Read poses for her first portrait with her court: Belinda Washington, Bryanna Phillips, Molly Voorhees, and Yian Saechao.

Princess Becci Read, a Parkrose High senior, plans to attend Pacific University and practice pediatric physical therapy. She’s involved in the National Honor Society, Varsity Volleyball (4 years), Student Government, Mock Trial, and Outdoor School.

She lists club volleyball, running, tutoring, and baby-sitting as her activities and hobbies.

Here’s our own formal portrait of Princess Becci of Parkrose!

Each selected Princess will be awarded a $3,500 scholarship, courtesy of The Randall Group; Pacific Power provides a mentoring program of female executives who are matched with the court members, as well as being a sponsor of the Queen’s Coronation.

Tickets for the 2010 Queen’s Coronation are on sale now, online: CLICK HERE to view the website to make your purchase – or to gain more information about all of this year’s Rose Festival festivities.

© 2010 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Why the gun-toting thief shot off rounds after stealing from this store remains a mystery. See what we found out about this case.

Neighbors say they appreciate the service, and convenience provided by the Woodstock Market in Lents.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
What startled neighbors along SE Woodstock Boulevard in the Lents neighborhood was the sound of gunshots on March 8, about 5:20 p.m.

“When Portland Police Bureau District Officers arrived,” stated police spokesman Sergeant Greg Stewart, “they discovered the sound of gunshots had been related to the robbery the Woodstock Market at 8601 S.E. Woodstock Boulevard.”

According to some accounts, the armed bandit shot off his weapon only after the robbery had been committed.

Officers secured the scene, continued Stewart – and were able to determine that no one was injured. “Officer and detectives began an investigation; evidence related to the incident was recovered.”

But, according to East Precinct Captain William Walker, the violent incident didn’t go unnoticed. “Police officers were given a good description for a car thought to be involved in the holdup at the market. With the detailed description sent out, it wasn’t long until alert East Precinct officers spotted the suspect car and stopped it. Subjects in the car were detained and interviewed.”

This man, Chiew Tong Saechao, was arrested and charged with multiple counts, just hours after the Woodstock Market was held up, police say.

About six hours later, at 11:40 P.M., officers and robbery detectives arrested Chiew Tong Saechao, a 22-year-old male, in relation to this case,” Stewart confirmed. “Saechao was charged with Attempted Murder, Robbery in the First Degree, and other weapons-related offenses. This investigation is still ongoing.”

© 2010 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

© 2010 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

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

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

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

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

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

Portland City Commissioner Nick Fish addresses the Parkrose Business Association.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Questions and Answers

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

© 2010 ~ David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Find out what a master of traditional Chinese medicine says about the effects of food on health at his Midland Library lecture …

-1 Dr. Guohui Liu introduces his lecture, “Healing with Foods”, at Midland Library.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
An instructor at outer East Portland’s Oriental College of Medicine since 1995, Dr. Guohui Liu, M.Med; L.Ac., came to  Midland Library on February 28, and presented a lecture he calls “Healing with Foods”.

“I was trained in China,” Liu began, “and earned my Masters degree in Traditional Chinese Medicine in 1985.”

Liu began by telling the class members, “Factors affecting disease include invasion of pathogens, improper foods intakes, overstrain, and prolonged imbalanced emotions.”

Next in importance, and one of the best ways to stay healthy, Liu explained, is “proper intake of food.”

The first governmental official to guide people in food intake was assigned in the Zhou dynasty, in 1060 B.C. “Taking foods and having sexual activity are basic desires for human beings. If one does not eat foods for a half day, energy would be weak. The reason for a normal person to die due to not taking foods for seven days is ‘exhaustion of essence, qi and, body fluid’. The most important thing to keep the body healthy is to pay attention to food intake.”

-2 Dr. Liu helps class members understand the many and varied qualities of foods that can lead to improved health.

Going into more detail during his class than we can convey in this article, Liu talked about four general principles for proper food intake:

• Time
• Temperature
• Quality
• Quantity

“It is important to eat the current foods, each in their seasons,” Liu also stated. He showed a chart of “element types” including grains, fruits, animals, and vegetables.

Because he said it would be inappropriate to diagnose and suggest specific treatment during the class, Liu concluded his talk by outlining the “causes and qualities” of diseases, telling how a balanced diet can help the ill find new pathways to health.

Liu said he plans to give this lecture again at Midland Library. Check our Community Calendar to discover many free, informative events taking place each month in East Portland!

© 2010 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Cops ruled out booze as a cause – but drugs may have been in the suspect’s system. Reasons for the 4 AM rampage that caused a lot of damage are scarce …

After clearing away shattered glass from the entrance of the Ron Tonkin Gran Turismo showroom on NE 122nd Avenue, workmen prepare to install new plate glass windows.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Around 4:00 a.m. on March 4, a Honda sedan with California license plates hit the heavy steel chain guarding the entry to the Ron Tonkin Gran Turismo exotic car dealership, at 203 NE 122nd Avenue, with such force that it easily gave way.

The driver then used her car as a battering ram, as she allegedly smashed it into the main showroom building, and also into the steel roll-up doors that protect the Ferraris in the rear building.

As the dealership’s alarms sounded, a witness called 9-1-1, and then reportedly followed the car as it exited the dealership’s lot.

The car first hit and broke this heavy steel chain that was stretched across the dealership’s driveway.

A steel mesh roll-up door saved this exotic vehicle from damage. However the glass and roll-up door were destroyed.

“We have surveillance video cameras all over the dealership,” a Tonkin employee confided later that morning. “It was really something to see, as the car smashed into the showroom windows, and the steel doors that protect our bays in the back building. There was glass all over the place; but none of the vehicles was damaged.”

Fails getaway attempt
The driver of the now-battered Honda finally took off northbound on NE 122nd Avenue, past NE Glisan Street.  Police officers rushed to the area, and located the car near the intersection of NE 122nd Avenue and Halsey Street.

“The driver tried to elude the police,” said Portland Police Bureau spokesperson Detective Mary Wheat. “Officers had to ‘box in’ the car to get it to stop.”

Wheat said the driver was, at first, uncooperative with officers, and was Tased. “It’s unclear if the Taser probes struck the subject,” Wheat added.

Police charged this woman, Francesca Lavezzo, with three counts related to the odd incident.

Officers took the woman, identified as 33-year-old Francesca Lavezzo, for medical observation at Portland Adventist Hospital, before she was booked into the downtown Multnomah County Jail.  She was released from custody later that same day.

“Lavezzo was charged with one count of Criminal Mischief in the First Degree, one count of Felony Elude, and one count of Hit and Run,” Wheat reported. “It was originally reported that this incident did not involve alcohol or drugs. At this time, officers still do not believe alcohol was a factor, but there is a possibility that drugs were involved in this incident.”

We asked Detective Wheat if Lavezzo – reportedly a stand-up comic and actress at clubs in Los Angeles – presented out-of-state identification. “Lavezzo gave a North Portland address – but the car she was driving did have California plates.”

A website for the “11th Hour Comedy” group in Los Angeles displays a webpage for “Francesca Lavezzo”, and the data thereon matches the physical description (6 ft tall, 160 lbs, with brown hair and brown eyes), and provides a similar-looking photograph for the woman police charged with the mayhem at the Tonkin dealership.

It is unknown why Lavezzo is in Portland, or what triggered her alleged vehicular rampage.

The driver of the offending car dented several of the steel roll-up doors at this Tonkin dealership, out 122nd way, before leaving the lot.

© 2010 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Discover why tickets are selling fast for this wacky comedy about a city family’s countryside ‘dream-home-turned-money-pit’ now playing weekends through March 13 at the Horner Performing Arts Center …

Annabelle Fuller (played by Quinci Daoust) takes a look at the charming “fixer-upper” her husband, Newton (Carson Cook) purchased without telling her; their daughter Madge (Rachael Zeller) and her soon to be jilted heart-of-gold boyfriend, Steve Eldridge (Matt Richardson) survey their “new” living room.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Off to a good start on opening night, March 5, the actors and stage crew of David Douglas High School Theater Department have “moved into” their new winter comedy home, “George Washington Slept Here”.

The play, which continues on March 6th and also runs March 11, 12 and 13, is best described as a slapstick “house from Hell” farce.

Newton and Annabelle learn from friendly neighbor Mrs. Douglas (DeAnna Gayomali) that, in fact, George Washington didn’t ever sleep in the house – it was a fable made up by their shady real estate agent.

Annabelle and the family discover that the roof is in as bad condition as the rest of the house, as rain streams in during a storm.

Fun, but a technically demanding play
One reason for choosing this particular play, Judy LeCoq, a David Douglas High theater instructor, and the director of this play, told us is that “George Washington Slept Here” requires a high degree of technical expertise to play it out on stage.

“Our Technical Director, Mark Taylor, and his crew, bring this show to life,” LeCoq noted. “The house [set] is in shambles when the curtain rises. Then, it’s refurbished during scene changes. When it rains, the ceilings actually leak. And, you won’t believe what happens to the set by the show’s end!”

Another reason to mount this show, LeCoq said, is because of the humorous situations and clever dialog by the playwrights, Moss Hart and George S. Kaufman. “Just like back when it was originally written, people today need a break from the cares and worries of the day. There’s a lot of satire and wit in this show. It’s a play where people can come in, sit back, and have an evening of laughs.

Each time local handyman Mr. Kimber (Corey T-Cedarleaf) comes to see Newton, he brings bad news – and a list of “needed purchases” that all cost more than estimated.

On short notice, rich-but-obnoxious Uncle Stanley J. Menninger, the “ball bearing magnate from Pittsburg” (Josh McKinley) arrives – ready to settle in for “a spell” and demand services one would expect in a fine hotel.

About the story …
Not many know that “George Washington Slept Here” was originally written as a stage play in 1940 by Hart and. Kaufman, but became known, thanks to a 1942 motion picture adaptation staring Jack Benny, Ann Sheridan, and Charles Coburn.

Tired of city life, Newton Fuller – unbeknown to his wife – buys a decrepit house in the country, in which George Washington supposedly slept. The list of things wrong with the house – and the very property on which it’s built – keeps growing exponentially.

The costs keep mounting as they try rebuilding the wreck of a house; and, the Fullers are beset with one problem after another.

Add to this their kooky clan that includes a thieving, ungrateful nephew, a daughter who is falls under the spell of a suave-yet-itinerant (and married) actor, a pregnant-but-unwed maid – and a grumpy neighbor who claims rights to their driveway – and water.

Madge’s young friends also come out for the weekend – but with steady rain falling all weekend long, their mood sours while Uncle Stanley snoozes.

Annabelle finds out why her husband has been so preoccupied during the weekend – she reads the foreclosure and eviction notice that’s been delivered.

Annabelle’s wicked nephew Raymond (Ian Booth) steals more than money from her purse – he plans to “sell out” his in-laws by giving secret information about the property to their grumpy and greedy neighbor.

To make matters worse, they find out it wasn’t President George Washington who had rested in the abode – instead, it was a much less savory character in American history.

• Can this family turn their run-down hovel into a warm, happy home?
• How will problems with their daughter and obnoxious, evil nephew resolve?
• Can they find a way to tolerate Uncle Stanley, the world’s most demanding houseguest – and millionaire?
• Will the Fullers find a way to pay the mortgage – just days before foreclosure?

Find out, as you watch the interaction of the colorful characters in ever-more-complex situations in this comic play, suitable for all ages. While there’s some broad slapstick humor, the show is family rated.

When Uncle Stanley “fesses up” – it looks as if the Fuller’s last hope for redemption – and their home – is gone. You’ll be surprised at the plan this clever liar comes up that might just save the day!

After smugly swaggering into the Fuller’s home, greedy neighbor Mr. Prescott (Ken Tang) starts backpedaling when Uncle Stanley puts the “whammy” on him!

Show continues through March 13
“George Washington Slept Here” premiered on March 5, and runs on March 6. It also plays the evenings of March 11, 12 and 13. Curtain time is 7:30 p.m. for all performances.

Tickets are $7 for adults; $5 for students and seniors. The Box Office at the theater is open on Monday, Wednesday, and Fridays from 3:00 until 5:30 p.m. on school days, and also one hour before the show. Call the box office at (503) 261-8270 with questions.

The Theater and Box Office are located in the David Douglas High School Horner Performing Arts Center, 1400 SE 130th Avenue (between SE Stark Street and SE Division Street) To visit their website, CLICK HERE.

The cast of George Washington Slept Here takes a well-deserved bow.  But, what happened to their house?

© 2010 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Find out what surprised firefighters in one of the apartments, as they battled this residential blaze …

Portland Fire & Rescue firefighters tear off portions of the roof to extinguish the flames traveling through the attic.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Although Portland Fire & Rescue (PF&R) crews arrived within minutes of getting the call, at 2:44 p.m. on March 1, a fire that broke out in a single-story 1970s-era ranch-style four-plex in the 2100 block of NE 80th Avenue was already belching out thick clouds of smoke; fire was visible.

When we arrived on-scene, firefighters with PF&R’s Engine 19, Truck 7, and Engine 28 were already opening the roof of the building to release heat, and pour water on the fire.

“People were home at the time,” commented PF&R spokesman, Lt. Allen Oswalt. “We had reports that the residents smelled, then saw, smoke. There were several calls to 9-1-1 before any of the smoke alarms – which were working – went off.”

Because it’s a multi-family dwelling, firefighters from several stations are called to fight the fire.

Older construction endangers building
Observing the firefighters at work as they opened up more of the roof, Oswald observed, “There’s probably very little or no ‘fire block’ between the units because of the older construction; when the units share a common attic, it allows fire to spread more easily.”

Soon, only wisps of smoke were visible, but the apartment units looked heavily damaged by smoke and water. “Fortunately, we got a quick knock-down that kept the fire from spreading to other buildings or homes in the area,” Oswalt said.

Large sections of the roof from this older four-plex had to be removed so firefighters could completely extinguish the blaze.

Pot grow discovered
When we noticed Portland Police Bureau drug unit officers on the scene, we asked why they had been called to the fire.

“There was a marijuana grow in one of the units,” a DVD officer told us. “Originally, they thought there was a ‘theft-of-service’ from Pacific Power and Light.”

Oswalt asked questions of the firefighters and told us, “Investigators say they checked; they believe that the ‘pot grow’ and the fire were not associated. It does not look to be a theft of power.”

We later asked Portland Police Bureau spokesperson, Detective Mary Wheat, about the pot grow. “As far as I can see from our records, this is a Fire Bureau investigation,” she replied.

Following up on this fire, PF&R’s Lt. Damon Simmons later reported that the fire was listed as “Accidental – Electrical”.

Quick response by Portland Fire & Rescue kept this fire from spreading to other units – or nearby houses. That’s Madison High School in the background.

© 2010 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Find out who was picked to represent the Scots, as Portland’s internationally-known festival announced the first member of their 2010 Royal Court …

It’s an amazing sight – 1,500 underclassmen (the other half of the student body is on the other side of the gym) – all waiting to welcome the 2010 Portland Rose Festival David Douglas High School Princess.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
The “Scots” of David Douglas High came out if full force to show their support for the 2010 Portland Rose Festival Princess Selection assembly on March 1. Every inch of the bleachers in the gymnasium was filled, as 3,000 students and teachers were seated for the 2:15 p.m. event.

Before the formal program started, Portland Rose Festival board member and director Amy Johnson told us how this year’s selection process had changed from past years.

“We narrowed the field of candidates at each school from six down to five,” Johnson said. “And this year, instead of holding the judging deliberations at the school, it was done at a central time and location. Of course, the results remained secret.”

Award-winning David Douglas High Cheerleaders entertain the crowd at the event.

Pacific Power Mentor, Michelle Follette, gives a memento to each Princess candidate.

The students at the participating schools were offered the option whether or not to hold a school-wide vote. “The result of this vote was counted in the final selection,” Johnson noted, saying that DDHS students did participate in the process.”

One of the candidates, Natalia Mosailova, answers the question put to her by the event’s Master of Ceremonies.

The candidates speak
The candidates were escorted through the length of the gym before they alighted on a 6-foot-high, decorated stage.

Before the school’s 2010 Portland Rose Festival Princess was announced, each candidate spoke briefly. Each answered a question put to them, even though all knew the school’s Princess had already been selected. They each thanked member of the student body.

Waiting to learn who would represent David Douglas High School during the 2010 Portland Rose Festival events are seniors Mackenzie Busby, Chelsea Kopacz, Natalia Mosailova, Kaitlyn Swyers and Selena Zou.

Introducing Princess Natalia Mosailova
A deafening cheer went up when Natalia Mosailova was announced as the school’s representative to this year’s Portland Rose Festival.

After receiving her tiara and bouquet of roses, Mosailova told the cheering audience, “Four years and six months ago, my family moved to the United States. I came to his school. I went to my first Rose Festival, saw the Princesses, and said, ‘Oh, my gosh! They all speak English!’”

This statement drew a big laugh from the audience as she continued, “I’m grateful to everyone in the Portland Rose Festival. I’m grateful to be in the United States of America. And, I thank all of you so much.”

Natalia Mosailova learns that she’ll be David Douglas High’s representative to this year’s Portland Rose Festival.

Photographers snapped photos of the Princess and her court. Asked what it meant to her to be selected, Mosailova, told us, “I’m very honored to be the representative from David Douglas High School. I’ll do my best to represent them in the best way. It’s been wonderful to become part of this great community here. And now, I’m so honored that I’ll actually be playing a role in it – representing our school, and this wonderful community. I find this to be thrilling.”

Born in Chisinau, Moldova, this 18-year-old DDHS Senior said she plans to pursue the University of Washington pre-medical program, and go on to be an Obstetrician and Gynecologist.

At DDHS, Mosailova has participated in the PRIDE Team, National Honors Society, and has won the school’s Award of Excellence (4.0 cumulative GPA at end of junior year).

Princess Natalia accepts a bouquet of roses.

Mosailova’s hobbies and special interests include Ballroom, hip-hop, and salsa dancing; is active in the Russian community, translating for Russian/Romanian/Ukranian residents, and works part time as office specialist at the OHSU Surgery Department.

During the interview process, Mosailova was asked, “What have you discovered about yourself during high school?”

She responded, “I’ve discovered myself as an excellent public orator, and defender of my personal views. I have an outgoing and giving personality. I’ve always been the person to whom friends and acquaintances would come for help or advice.”

It’s not too early to consider attending the 2010 Portland Rose Festival Queen Selection Ceremony, held just before the Grand Floral Parade. For more information about the Portland Rose Festival, visit their official website: CLICK HERE.

-8 Surrounded by her court is David Douglas High School’s Portland Rose Festival Princess Natalia.

© 2010 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

© 2010 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

© 2010 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News