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

If you’re interested in becoming an “urban farmer”, but don’t have the land – see where you can get growing this season, in the Russell neighborhood …

Jean Zondervan of Grow Portland welcomes urban gardeners to the new outer East Portland garden site at Eastminster Presbyterian Church.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Historically, churches in outer East Portland have built their houses of worship on vast sites – perhaps planning for future expansion. Instead of additional buildings, the property instead all too often produced a crop of grass – or in some cases, weeds.

Last year, the congregation at Eastminster Presbyterian Church, at 12505 NE Halsey Street, decided to transform the unused property west of their campus buildings into a community garden site.

Not long ago, we caught up with Jean Zondervan, the community gardens coordinator for Grow Portland, a local nonprofit organization which she said is trying to expand urban gardening and urban agricultural in outer East Portland.

Long time Eastminster member Walter Lersch says the idea of providing community garden space came from listening to community members.

“Thanks to our partnership with the Eastminster Presbyterian Church,” Zondervan said, “we have here a pretty good-sized community garden space.”

In total, 100 garden plots are being opened to community members, Zondervan revealed.

The executive director of Grow Portland, David Beller, shows he’s a “hands-on manager” when it comes to helping get garden sites ready for planting.

Helping to prepare the land for gardening was 30-year Eastminster member Walter Lersch. “All of that time, this has been an empty field.

“As part of our mission study, we talked with people in our community, and asked them what they thought would be good for the church to do, and good uses for the property,” Lersch explained.

“At the top of the list was a community garden. As part of that, we continued to reach out into the community and to community organizations, and we were introduced to Grow Portland, and began to work with them,” he added. “We have a very viable and active partnership.”

Clay Osburn – some folks call him “Mr. Tomato” – says he’ll be able to grow even more of his luscious crop, which he’ll donate to SnowCap Charities, at the new Eastminster community garden site.

Looking forward to the growing season, outer East Portland’s “Mr. Tomato”, Clay Osburn, was at the Eastminster garden helping out. “We brought 750 pounds of tomatoes to SnowCap Charities last year from the Parkrose Heights Community Garden. I plan to have about 40 varieties here this year, and I’ll continue to grow food for SnowCap.”

The fees for gardening at the new site are:

• 15′x15′ Single Plot, $50
• 15′x30′ Double Plot, $90

However, they’re offering plots at a reduced rate for gardeners on disability, or who are receiving government food assistance.

To find out more, or sign up, visit the Grow Portland website: CLICK HERE to open their homepage.

• Photo on the front page: Seth Belber, “Lead Grower” at the Grow Portland Damascus, Oregon, site, helps stake out plots at the Eastminster garden.

© 2012 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

See why these teammates say they had to jump to safety, when an SUV interrupted a “calm” afternoon game of kickball …

A police officer checks on the woman driving this SUV, just moments after it crashed into a tree in Lents Park.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
It wasn’t the siren yelps blasting from approaching emergency vehicles that startled members of a Northwest Kickball team about Sunday, May 6 about 4:30 p.m. who were seated at the north edge of Lents Park along SE Holgate Boulevard. They were already startled!

“It sounded like a ‘screech, crash and a kaboom!’ right behind us,” said an ear-witness, who declined to give her name. “We were just sitting here, watching the game with our back to the trees, and suddenly – boom! This truck smashed into the tree. We looked around, and there it was!”

A paramedic joins the officer as they evaluate the driver’s medical condition.

Another player observed that if it hadn’t been for the huge tree in the way, on the north edge of the park, they most likely would have been hit and seriously injured by the errant vehicle.

Circumstances surrounding the crash still remain unclear, but the wreck on eastbound SE Holgate Boulevard at SE 91^st Avenue left a dark green Nissan Pathfinder firmly smashed into the trunk of a tree. Under the SUVs front tires was a flattened metal street signpost.

Had it not been for this tree, kickball players sitting just feet away from it say they might have been seriously injured when the SUV swerved across the sidewalk and into the park.

Portland Police Bureau East Precinct district officers quickly responded and blocked traffic, as an ambulance and Portland Fire & Rescue rig also rolled up to the crash site.

It appeared as if the vehicle had been occupied just by an older female driver; and, although the crash looked brutal, it wasn’t severe enough to cause the airbags to deploy.

According to Portland Fire & Rescue Public Information Officer Paul Corah, the driver was treated on scene by paramedics and released.

© 2012 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

This accident is still under investigation, but see the results of this unusual car vs. motorcycle wreck …

-1 Portland Police Bureau Traffic Division officers examine the motorcycle involved in an accident on residential SE 112^th Avenue.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton

On the unusually blustery and rain-swept afternoon of May 3, about 1:00 p.m., emergency reports came in – first of a police motorcycle officer, later corrected to being a funeral procession escort – colliding with a car.

The accident, on SE 112^th Avenue, about a block south of SE Division Street, shut down the residential road for several hours while the accident was being investigated.

The rider of this motorcycle was thrown as far as 40 feet from his bike, some say.

Witnesses said the still unnamed victim, a man riding a large Honda motorcycle from “First Call Plus Funeral Escort Service” was thrown as far as 40 feet from his motorcycle after the collision.

The car with which the motorcycle collided, a silver Hyundai sedan, appeared to have gone off the street, through a chain link fence, and rolled to a stop at the front porch of 2708 SE 112^th Avenue.

“A motorcycle escort for funeral procession (not a police bike) crashed into a car,” Portland Police Bureau Public Information Officer Sgt. Peter Simpson told East Portland News.

After the crash, this car ended up on the fenced front lawn of this outer East Portland home.

Dion Strommer, General Manager of First Call Plus Funeral Escort Service, a firm that he said provides a variety of mortuary-related service, told East Portland News that his rider was injured, but is expected to be released from the hospital soon.

Strommer declined to comment about the nature of the wreck.

“Traffic Division investigators got conflicting information about whether the car turned in front of the, bike or bike ran into a car,” Simpson reported. “The incident remains under investigation.”

© 2012 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

See why everyone in the family will find this lively, colorful production of Sleeping Beauty lots of fun …

At the technical controls in the Parkrose High School Theater are Juneau Singleton on the lighting board and Miranda Schwabauer running the sound gear.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
At opening night of Parkrose High School’s production of Sleeping Beauty on May 3, the audience might have been expecting a “warmed over” rehash of the 1959 Walt Disney animated motion picture.

Instead, adults and kids were treated to an energetic and colorful retelling of the centuries-old fairy tale – from a new point of view!

The story begins, revealed by the “older” version of fairy Goldy (played by Dawn Parsons), who is surprised by visitors to the Forest.

Other Forest fairies (not all of them seen here, but including Mae Hodge, Sierra Smith, Tiffany Parson, Jamie Crocker, Savannah Hawes and Selba Tamraker) are all a-twitter, watching Goldy attempt to work her magic.

This play, written by Rufus Norris for the Royal Shakespeare Company, and later presented by the London’s National Theater, features physical comedy and running gags reminiscent of a Mel Brooks production!

About the story
“The story is told by a sweet-but-bumbling fairy named Goldy, who accidently puts a curse on King and Queen Beauty’s daughter,” explained show director, and Parkrose High theater arts instructor, Ms. Zena.

King Beauty (Shane Casley) and Queen Beauty (Llake Anderson) ask the younger Goldy (Mary Markham) to help them have a baby – with the promise she’d be invited to the castle when their girl was born, a promise not kept.

The curse isn’t evident as Princess Beauty grows up – and reaches the eve of her 16^th birthday.

Goody’s curse takes effect. Queen Beauty looks on as Sleeping Beauty settles in for a long, long snooze.

Goldy searches high and low for a prince, whose kiss will awaken Sleeping Beauty. When she finds a suitor, he seems more interested in adventure than in romance with a real princess.

Complicating matters is that the mother of the prince would love to have Sleeping Beauty and her babies over for dinner – literally. Perhaps served with crème sauce!

• Can Goody find a handsome prince to awaken Sleeping Beauty?
• Why does Sleeping Beauty’s beau keep her from meeting his family?
• Will the prince, Sleeping Beauty, and her babies escape the cruel ogres?

Catch one of the two final shows next week, and find out!

Could this howling creature from “Castle Ogress Charming” (Kali Onderdonk) really be carrying the baby who will eventually grow to become the prince whom Goldy is looking?

Time passes, and eventually the ogress’ Prince Charming (Justin Wright) grows into a rugged young man, ready to conquer beasts in the wilderness.

About the production
“We chose this play,” Zena said, “because we wanted to present a somewhat comedic, fun, family-friendly show.”

Although the show is a much lighter theater fare than their production of Macbeth last year, Zena commented, it offers many challenging roles for the student actors.

“This story has good depth to it. It’s a bit of a romantic comedy, without being too romantic,” Zena added.

She has enjoyed working with the cast of 35 student actors, Zena mentioned – many of whom are new to the stage. “This show features a lot of fresh faces. This show features many freshmen and sophomores in better roles. They are really growing into their parts, taking risks and nurturing as actors.”

While all still fast asleep in Beauty Castle, Goldy helps the Prince to gain entrance, and – against his better judgment – to kiss Sleeping Beauty.

After working for decades to unite Sleeping Beauty and Prince Charming, it appears if Goody’s efforts to “reclaim her wings” by “doing good” is about to unravel.

A proficient stage crew of 20 theater craft students keeps the production seamlessly transitioning from one scene to another.

Sleeping Beauty continues May 10 and 11
Enjoy this comical and romantic retelling of a timeless story that includes fairies, ogres, kings, and queens – and is filled with action and romance.

The last two performances of the show are on May 10 and 11. Curtain time for both performances is 7:00 p.m.

• This delightful play is appropriate for all ages.

Tickets are available at the door only, and are just $8 for adults – $5 for 18 and under, or Seniors 65+. It’s at the Parkrose High School Theater at 12003 NE Shaver Street, just off NE 122^nd Avenue.

Take a bow! The cast of Sleeping Beauty enjoys the applause of the audience.

© 2012 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

You’ll be amazed at the amount of pledges to the Parkrose Business Foundation were made at their last meeting! And, here’s a last look at the leading Portland mayoral candidates – talking about outer East Portland …

Judy Kennedy of Pacific Northwest Federal Credit Union and Laurie Larsen of Compaction and Recycling Equipment check in the Parkrose Business Association members and guests at the April meeting.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Members and guests of the Parkrose Business Association were directed to the ballroom at the Holiday Inn Airport & Convention Center for the April 19 meeting.

About 60 folks made their way through the buffet line, and preparing to hear from three Portland mayoral candidates.

PBA’s president, David Ableidinger of Parkrose Hardware, welcomes attendees to the meeting.

Gordon Boorse of Compaction and Recycling Equipment conducts the group’s annual fundraising pledge drive — raising money for the organization’s Scholarship Fund.

Not shy to step up and ask, Gordon Boorse came to the front and began soliciting for donations and pledges to the Parkrose Business Foundation Scholarship Fund, which provides $1,000 scholarships to worthy graduating Parkrose High School seniors.

Hands shot up, and members called out their pledges so quickly, it was difficult for PBA Treasurer Marsha Grabinger to keep up with recording the gifts.

Wayne Stoll and Gale Bash present a pledge $1,000 “check” to Gordon Boorse, kicking off the fundraising session.

On behalf of Pacific Northwest Federal Credit Union, Judy Kennedy pledges $1,000 to the Parkrose Business Foundation’s Scholarship Fund.

In addition to the pledges depicted above, representatives of ABC Sustainable Solutions, American Sani-Can, Bob Brown Tire Center, Compaction and Recycling Equipment, Davy Tree Expert Company, NW Pest Control, Hookset Automotive, Jason Zwick State Farm Insurance, Dr. Gray from Parkrose School District, Mark Eves Attorney PC, Marsha and Brent Grabinger, Parkrose Hardware, Rossi Farms, Russellville Grange, and Century Associates, each promised a contribution.

In about nine minutes, Boorse obtained $4,250 in pledged contributions.

David F. Ashton of East Portland News convenes the Parkrose Portland Mayoral Forum. Marsha Grabinger photo

Portland Mayoral candidates Charlie Hales, Eileen Brady, and Jefferson Smith were invited to speak, and answer questions put to them by members of the PBA.

Mayoral candidate Jefferson Smith introduces himself.

“I’m Jefferson Smith and I’m running for Mayor. This is my hometown. I represent [District 47 part of] Portland in the State House. I grew up in Irvington; my wife grew up out here.

“If elected, I will be the first Mayor of the City elected east of 82nd Avenue.

“I think I can get our city working again.  I’m trying to attract out-of-state businesses, as well as home-grown businesses.

“I helped pass a [State] ‘budget transparency’ measure, putting the budget online. I think there are ways we can save money, by spending money on key priorities. And, I’m running for Mayor because we need to make Portland serve all of its people.”

Smith noted that outer East Portland school districts have grown in size. “And, more children are on free or reduced cost lunches.

“East Portland has seen a bunch of promises, followed by a bunch of neglect. Funds available for schools and transportation projects have not been focused on East Portland. I want to change the trajectory of this community

“Talking of East Portland is an easy thing to do on the campaign trail.  I want a change the trajectory of this community by changing the power dynamic in City Hall.”

Mayoral candidate Eileen Brady introduces herself.

Eileen Brady began by saying she enjoyed the Parkrose Centennial parade, and had been “principal for a day” at Parkrose Middle School last year.

“I’m a hands-on leader; I want to be out in the community. What I’ve been out doing during the campaign, I will be doing during my administration.

“I love Portland, it’s a great place to live, but it’s a really tough place to live or earn a living.

“We have to commit to realizing that if we want a livable city, memorable parks, a transit system, we’ll have to build the economic infrastructure to support that.  That means – neighborhood-based this is area is – recruiting midsize businesses, and adding a larger-sized businesses to the community, so we can support all the things we hold dear, including schools.”

Brady clicked off her organization and leadership roles: Natures, New Seasons Market, Eco-trust, Zenger Farm; and currently she is the board chair of the green coupon guide called the “Chinook Book”.

“I spent many years building organizations to prove you can have a sustainable city, and still build a stronger job base. There’s a myth here that you can’t have both. But to do it you need to set priorities.”

“My four key priorities are: Job development, transforming the public safety system, building a ‘21st Century school system’, and providing responsible, affordable city services to businesses and families.

Mayoral candidate Charley Hales introduces himself.

Charlie Hales began, “I’m running for Mayor because our city needs leadership. Leadership that can actually get things done in City Hall, not just talk about what should be done.

“My opponents bring strong resumes to this contest, one from the private sector and one from the public sector. In my case, I spent 20 years in the private sector, and ten years working in our weird, and sometimes dysfunctional form of city government, getting things done, like airport light rail.

“I’m proud of what I’ve done for schools. I was in the leadership team with Mayor Vera Katz – I was the one [on the City Council] who insisted that [city] funding should go to all school districts, not just Portland Public Schools.

“The city can do more to be a better partner in business. We need to look at systems development charges, to make it easier to start projects. We need to look at our water and sewer rates, and make sure we’re spending the money on water and sewer.

“Let’s be a great partner for public schools. Let’s attend to basic services. With only half the budget, we paved five times the streets, when I was on City Council.

“The people want us to attend to basic services.  Let’s get the basics right, first.”

Candidates quizzed about PDOT spending
The first of three questions submitted by members of the PBA to all three candidaters was, “While reportedly spending $900,000 to build 13.5 miles of bike routes, $665,000 to add 8 permanent employees to oversee streetcars, $200,000 for Rose Festival preparation work, and  giving a $15,000 sponsorship of “Rail-Volution” in Los Angeles – the Portland Transportation Bureau has put off plans to overhaul deteriorating roads in its 5,000 mile system until at least 2017. As Mayor, do you plan to reverse this policy by spending more on road repair – throughout the City – before 2017? If not, why not?

Eileen Brady replied: “It’s inconceivable we have a Transportation Bureau that’s announced that we are not going to pave key roads over the next several years. What is the Transportation Bureau actually for?  We have to focus more on maintenance and safety.  My father said that 80% of life is maintenance.  We have too much money committed to too many ‘shiny projects’ without having a maintenance fund.

“We have not committed to building the capital structure to actually maintain the capital structure.  We will commit to building a capital base budget that should have been done 10 or 15 years ago.  If we had, we perhaps would now have more sidewalks paved and roads paved in East Portland.  We commit to projects we can’t operate.  We have a streetcar that’s going on the east side of the river – we built that, but we have not budgeted for the operating costs.  We’re going to spend between a million and three million operating the streetcar because we haven’t planned for that cost.

“What I bring to this race is a business orientation. We have got to be able to balance the books. We can’t bet on new projects, with the build in operating costs, maintenance costs – and who have to work for these lovable programs out in East Portland. In East Portland you have a legitimate complaint about not getting services from the city.  One of the great things about this race is that we are all talking about East Portland.”

Charlie Hales replied: “I was very involved in the MAX Airport light rail line, and I’m really proud of it. It’s given us a better city. Part of the payoff is building the Cascade Station development, that brought jobs and prosperity.

“There is an agreement here [among these candidates] that maintenance has to be ‘job one’. It’s a matter of setting priorities, and not getting sidetracked by projects, and spending transportation money on things that have nothing to do with transportation.

“Secondly, yes, there are 60 miles of unpaved streets in Portland, but not just in East Portland. The city has focusing on using a ‘dysfunctional tool’ – Local Improvement Districts – to get these roads built. Using only LIDs, the roads will be paved in about 400 years; very few people can afford to build their own street after the fact.

“We need to dump that idea, and establish a long-term capital program. With careful budget management, it will probably take 20 years to get our streets paved.  It needs to be built into the base budget, [we must] stick to it, and we shouldn’t be spending enterprise funds on things that should be paid for by, or compete for, the general fund.”

Jefferson Smith replied: “Agreed, maintenance first; especially the kind that, not done, is more expensive going forward.  Let’s have some perspective on reality.

“It’s not just [Mayor] Sam Adams, with whom I’ve had [some] pretty public debates, and disagreements with, about resource allocation, and failure to provide adequate resources across the city.

“It isn’t Sam Adams’ fault, for example – I was one of the few Democrats in the State House to vote against a tax gas increase – nor is it his fault that those funds projected to provide $300 million are down to $160 million. We have to find ways to save money. It’s not only being careful about big projects, when the distinctions of the races applying the discipline.”

Smith said he was against the Columbia River Crossing, the Portland Eco-Building – but he is looking for other ways to save money to be able to build roads more cheaply. “We have to analyze it to find ways to save money.

“Gas tax revenues are not keeping up with transportation needs – seniors are driving less, for example. Part of it is seeing the whole picture. Just about every election, people come around and talk about East Portland. Once they get elected, they’re thinking more about downtown businesses, and less about Parkrose businesses. We need to make sure that the resources are distributed throughout the city.”

Candidates questioned about water and sewer bills
The second question put to all of the candidates was, “It seems that our water and sewer bills have become the ‘new property tax’. Continuing rate increases place both business- owners and residents in financial jeopardy. What will you do to reduce the amount of the water/sewer rates? If not, why not?

Charlie Hales responded: Clearly we’ve got to go over the rates, line by line. This has not been done effectively in the last several years, across the board, in the City budget. Mayor Katz, who endorsed me, was the most effective ‘budgeting mayor’ that we’ve had.

“First, we go to the line items, and look at every cost. We need to make sure the capital program is reasonable, and will keep this system, that’s been around for a hundred years, around for many more.

“Another big issue for the City is, putting it politely, we have frayed relationships with our suburban neighbors. Some of them buy water from us, in very large wholesale quantities. We need to repair relationships with water districts who buy water from us – if we don’t, we’ll have another ‘rate shock’ coming.

“On the sewer side, we have this very large Combined Sewer obligation – about $1.4 billion – and we’ll be paying that [off] for some time.

“Another issue we need to look at very carefully is cleaning up the Portland harbor. Portland will have to take on some of that cost – and we need to make sure it doesn’t cause another rate shock.

“Finally, we need to make sure we’re spending money appropriately.  We should not use Water Bureau money to build the Rose Festival headquarters, for example.”

Jefferson Smith responded: “Some of it is what I call ‘operational discipline’.  A former Water Bureau employee said the city aims for a staff-to-management ratio of six to one.  In the Water Bureau, it’s about three to one. We can save real money by reducing the management levels.

“On the House floor, I set an aspirational level of staff-to-management at eleven to one. We should do a similar thing in the city.

“I think we can improve rate review. I think there should be electoral accountability – throw people out of office if they raise your rates without a good reason for it.

“Third, I think we need to have line-by-line budget attention, as Charlie said. I’ve served on committees to oversee the budget of the Secretary of State and Treasurer’s offices.  I’ve had to find ways of cutting budgets and saving money over the last four years.  That’s something we’ve got to do.

“Let me say something else.  Sometimes we have to say no to the federal government.  Right now, the federal government is asking us to pay much money on treatment plants to clean up Cryptosporidium that we don’t have.  Leveraging relationships with state partners both in agencies and legislatures to make sure we get off the hook for having to pay for things we shouldn’t have to pay for is something Mayors have to have the willingness to do.”

Eileen Brady responded: “As I mentioned before, I sat on an independent review panel deciding whether not to cover our water reservoirs. Don’t judge me when I say, judge me what I did – I sat on those boards.

“In 2004, when we’re looking at a 9/11 terrorist fear factor, it was a bold and radical thing to sit on a panel, build a majority who recommended that the City overturn this decision to cover the reservoirs. We did it then. And, I actually helped work to make sure that we got the treatment plant that we did have.  Now are still facing covering the reservoirs.

“Let me tell you something: I would not have voted for the rate increase that went through last year. It included preparations for covering the reservoirs. They were anticipating that. I would have taken the risk they will be able to move through the EPA process, and get away from the whole thing.

“Lastly – you think rates are bad now? The Superfund Harbor Clean up is yet to come to everyone’s attention. It’s potentially a $500 million bill.  It is probably going to be recommended to sit on the sewer rates side of the recommendation.

“The city has not stepped up and provided the leadership to become part of this conversation.  They stayed in the background.  We have to provide leadership, work with the industry, environmentalists, and the Port, so we can actually have the most cost-effective approach, with community consensus.  I have built unusual coalitions for many years.  I am not afraid of big complex issues. In fact, I will assign this project to one of the Commissioners.”

Candidates speak on improving Parkrose business
The last question posed to all three was, “When elected Mayor of Portland, what will you do – specifically – to improve the business atmosphere in Parkrose?”

Jefferson Smith responded: “Several things. One of the most important things we have to do is make sure resource distribution is done smartly.  Occasionally there are state or federal dollars to distribute.  Often they are City dollars. We have to make sure that we’re deploying these resources fairly; making sure that we were doing mapping and analysis. It’s more than dollar for dollar, but also understanding that investment in a park or a road is different than investment in a Gateway Violence Shelter or in a methadone clinic.  We have to make sure we’re building livable neighborhoods and providing economic diversity.

“We don’t want to have ‘economic segregation’ – segregating poverty in one section of the City, which is essentially what the City’s been doing for the last 25 years. That’s the most important thing we can do to improve the business climate in this neighborhood, for the neighbors I already represent currently in the legislature.  We need not only jobs here – we need customers.  We need an economic development plan that goes beyond topless clubs and strip malls.

“Secondly, we can take a lesson from other cities, from they have done, and that’s to help homegrown businesses – not only by providing tax breaks to attract out-of-state businesses, but by helping homegrown businesses move through the permitting process.  It’s making sure there we’re not only thinking about the tax breaks downtown businesses are asking for, but thinking about the basic needs of the whole city, including this part of town.

“Third, we need to think about the projects than we do.  This means neighborhood-scale investments. I’m a supporter of doing small reasonable things, like helping develop Lily Market.  Helping smaller businesses get what they need to grow; we need those neighborhood-scale projects to grow.”

Eileen Brady responded: “I have committed to say that, in my office, we will have an East Portland liaison. This person will be able to work with, and be available to, anyone in East Portland – specifically to help drive these programs to the City.

“Secondly, I’m a businessperson. I can read a profit and loss statement, and a balance sheet, and I know what a pro forma is. I will be recruiting businesses to the city every week. I’ll be on the phone, or on a plane if necessary; one of my top priorities will be business recruitment. But what’s important here, is really understanding what I call ‘job math’.

“There are different kinds of jobs that ‘create multipliers’ in communities. In many of communities like Parkrose, there are local jobs like healthcare, retail, hospitality – these are all important businesses. But from a ‘job math’ perspective, every trade sector job you create, like manufacturing or providing a service that brings money into a community and sends products or services out, creates two jobs. We need more traded sector businesses and Parkrose.  I’ll be focusing on traded sector businesses.

“Thirdly, the city’s permitting system. I have suffered with this permitting system for 25 years, opening grocery stores. And I have the receding hairline to prove it.  We have to streamline the permitting system – we have to make it service-oriented. We have a job-delaying permitting system. I will make it less costly and faster, and with less surprises in the whole project. I’m looking forward to taking the Bureau of Development Services into my portfolio if I’m elected.”

Charlie Hales responded:  “Five things: First and most important, listen to people who understand this community. Portland’s a diverse place, with diverse business districts and neighborhoods, that are different, one from another.

“I keep in mind that I’m not the smartest person in the room, and other people have good ideas. It’s about bringing that spirit of humility to this important job.

“Secondly, the permitting process – I have suggested specifically that we adopt [elements from cities we] have done our homework on – such as in Salt Lake City, where the process is entirely paperless.  Plans go in as CAD [computer] files; inspectors go out with the I-Pads – inspection reports are done real time, with the click of a mouse, instead of in a return phone call.  Let’s get a modernized in the way business actually works.

“There are other things that are working, that we should keep – like the Neighborhood Prosperity Initiative. This shift of the Portland Development Commission away from only a focusing on big districts downtown, to small districts in the neighborhood, is a healthy thing. I commend Mayor Adams and the current leadership of the PDC for taking leadership in those areas.

“Finally, I’ll take City Council meetings around the city once a month at places like Parkrose or David Douglas High Schools. And, we’ll hold them at time when regular working people can actually attend.”

Charlie Hales gives his closing statement.

In his closing statement, Charlie Hales said, “We’ve all talked about issues that matter to Parkrose. I bring both public and private sector experience. I spent the first ten years working for business organizations, the Hotel Motel Association, and Homebuilders Association.

“Then I did served in our particularly strange form of city government, where we got a lot done.

“For the last 10 years I’ve been working for a national architectural and engineering firm called HDR, Inc. I’m proud of that business’ success.  We’ve grown from 2,700 employees to 8,000. We do it by practicing strong team leadership, a trait that also works very well in public leadership. I bring this experience to this job.”

• To see Hales’ website, CLICK HERE.

Eileen Brady gives her closing statement.

Eileen Brady concluded by saying: “I think Portland needs a Mayor for a new era.  We need new leadership that understands that you can’t just wish for having parks. You can’t just wish to have a transportation system that paves roads. You have to have the economics behind it. These need a tax base to support the programs.

“I started first, as kind of any underdog candidate, with a path to victory in every group that I’ve been in. We have to build the job base here.  As a result, I have built the broadest coalition of supporters and endorsers in this race.

“I have support from trade unions, the Portland Business Alliance, leading environmental leaders in the state, and the Portland Green Party endorsement. I’m honored by the breath of support.”

• To see Brady’s website: CLICK HERE.

Jefferson Smith gives his closing statement.

Jefferson Smith concluded by saying: “You can see my commitment, not only from the context of this campaign, but also by what I’ve been working on for the last several years.

“I have scars from my fights with our Mayor over on fairness regarding this part of the City. I’ve calluses on my feet from canvassing for the Parkrose school bond and the Portland school bond. I fought for small business in the legislature. In this campaign I demonstrated fiscal responsibility, as we’re facing tough budget times. Even though [that fiscal restraint] made it hard for some labor unions to support me – and some are not willing to support me because I’m not going to give them the boondoggle that they wanted.

“I’ve also been willing to make the case that the city needs to work for the whole city. I do this in every single living room that I’ve been invited into on both sides of the river. The MAX light rail line goes to the whole city. If gang activity festers anywhere, it affects everywhere. If we don’t have an economic development plan that works for the whole city, the economy of our city won’t work. I won’t need to appoint an East County liaison; I will be that liaison.”

• To see Smith’s website: CLICK HERE.

Meet the members of the PBA
On May 17, the Parkrose Business Association meets at 11:30 a.m.

This month, they’ll be voting in new board members. And, they’ll hear from a fascinating speaker – Rick Teeny of Teeny Foods.

They meet at the Holiday Inn Airport, 8439 NE Columbia Boulevard (in the hotel building, around the back at the Flirt’s entrance – not the Convention Center next door). The meeting is free, and the buffet lunch is $17, including dessert and gratuity; reservations are NOT required.

© 2012 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

See why it wasn’t easy for firefighters to reach the fire, and why this fire – of as-yet undetermined origins – frightened the displaced residents …

An arriving crew of firefighters check their gear before heading in to fight the fire. Greg Muhr, Portland Fire & Rescue photo

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
When fire broke out at 9:28 a.m. on April 30 at the Trails End Apartments located at 11860 SE Powell Boulevard, Portland Fire & Rescue (PF&R) crews from Mill Park Station 7 rolled up into the narrow “flag lot” driveway.

“Coming on-scene just three minutes after the call,” reported PF&R Public Information Officer Paul Corah, “crews could see a large amount of fire coming from the back of the apartment building. The crew of Engine 7 immediately pulled a hose line, and went to the top floor (3rd floor) to extinguish the flames.”

From inside the apartment building – and on the roof – firefighters attack the fire. Greg Muhr, Portland Fire & Rescue photo

“It was really crazy,” said a resident who declined to give her name. “It was really scary. All we saw was smoke and then some fire – lots of smoke.”

Jim Dunford, a neighbor, told East Portland News, “I was out for a walk and saw the smoke coming out. It’s was just massive; I’ve never seen anything like it. After that plume of smoke, then came flames.”

Two Portland Fire & Rescue Battalion Chiefs head up to inspect progress with the firefight.

Other neighbors said residents’ pets ran – some jumped out windows – to escape the fire and smoke.

Firefighters encountered fire that had burned out the back of the building on the second floor, and lapped up and re-entered the building on the third floor, Corah later explained.

“Additional hose lines were deployed, and fire crews aggressively attacked the blaze on both floors. The crew from [ladder] Truck 7 went directly to the roof to cut ventilation holes, in order to remove the fire and smoke from the attic, and improve conditions for fire crews on the inside. While attacking this blaze, fire crews searched each unit to make sure all the occupants had escaped.”

Inside the window, the charred apartment is illuminated only by the ventilation holes cut in the roof.

Because of the extent of the blaze, Corah said, Battalion Chiefs called a second alarm at 9:41 am to bring additional fire crews to assist in the firefighting efforts.
“Fortunately, everyone escaped safely, and there were no victims in this fire,” added Corah. “However, a number of people have been displaced, and the Red Cross is on-scene assisting them in finding alternate housing.”

A firefighter starts the long task of repacking water lines into a truck.

About the pets – firefighters did rescue five cats and two dogs from the fire and successfully returned them to their owners, including two missing Chihuahuas firefighters found, one hiding under a blanket the other in its kennel. “All of them were returned safely to their owners,” Corah said.

Damages have been set at $235,000 dollars, Corah added. “The fire remains under investigation.”

Firefighters and command staff debrief, after the fire has been extinguished.

© 2012 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Here’s your opportunity to learn a little more about House District 47 and Multnomah County Commissioner District 3 candidates. EXTRA! Also get a preview of the May return of the Gateway Fun-0-Rama events on May 19 …

GABA’s President Fred Sanchez, of Realty Brokers, welcomes members and guests to another monthly meeting at Russellville Park 2.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
At the April Gateway Area Business Association (GABA) meeting at Russellville Park II, candidates for Oregon House District 47 and Multnomah County District 3 Commissioner were on hand to meet the members, and to campaign for election.

May 19th Fun-0-Rama plans revealed
On May 19, NE Halsey Street will be the epicenter of excitement as the Gateway Fun-0-Rama returns – with a golf tournament, parade, and fair.

From 7:30 a.m. until 1:00 p.m., the annual GOLF-O-RAMA tournament returns at nearby Glendoveer Golf Course.

Then, at 1:00, the FUN-O-RAMA Parade gets underway, starting at Gateway Park (NE 106th Avenue & Halsey Street), and traveling north on Halsey to NE 111^th Avenue. The First Responders (Police, Fire, Red Cross, ambulances) participate, along with floats, antique cars, marching bands, decorated bikes and motorcycles, clowns, scouts, and more – to make this a colorful and fun event.

Then, from 2:00 until 4:00 p.m., it’s the FUN-O-RAMA Fair at 111th SQUARE (NE Halsey at 111th), where GABA members demonstrate their services and show off their wares. The free-to-the-public fair features entertainment, music, a raffle, and exciting interactive displays.

Before attorney Bruce McCain again moderates a “candidates’ forum” during this GABA meeting, he’s presented with the “GABA Rubber Chicken of Excellence Award” by Fred Sanchez.

At the meeting, about 20 members and guests also heard from candidates running for Oregon House District 47, and Multnomah County Commissioner District 3.

Candidate for House District 47, Jessica Vega Pederson (D), was ill, and did not attend as she’d intended, McCain reported. [To see her website: CLICK HERE.]

House District 47 candidates Maggie Nelson and Dr. Thuy Tran – and Multnomah County Commissioner District 3 candidates Judy Shiprack and Patty Burkett, are about to introduce themselves.

House District 47 candidate Maggie Nelson speaks.

House District 47 candidate Maggie Nelson (R) introduced herself, saying, “I called down to see if the [Portland] City Council voted in the Neighborhood Prosperity Initiative (NPI), and learned it was approved, and is targeting right here in Gateway. We will now be working on the NPI initiative program.

“I have just retired from teaching, after a 20 year career in 2010.  When I retired, I ran for, and was elected to, the Mt. Hood Community College Board – where I’ve served for the past year.

“As a child, I was raised on a wheat farm in eastern Oregon.  In addition to the crop production, my father raised cattle and sheep. My grandparents lived on the neighboring farm right beside us.  And, together, my father and grandfather owned about 900 acres of timberland. So, I am for opening logging in the state of Oregon.  I am in favor of treating our timberlands, in our State, as a natural resource.

“Because I was raised in a rural setting and lived my entire adulthood in an urban setting, I feel that I have an appreciation for the needs and the concerns of both rural and urban concerns.

“I am running [for this office] because I believe our country has not only come to a crossroads, but we are heading down the wrong track. I see our Constitution being disrespected, and I feel that we have out-of-control spending. I feel that our checks-and-balances are no longer working on the state or national level.

“I still believe that a person, ready to take action, can make a difference.”

• To contact Maggie Nelson, e-mail her at maggie@nelsonfororegon.com.

House District 47 candidate Thuy Tran speaks.

House District 47 candidate Dr. Thuy Tran (D) said, “I’m a Democrat running for State Representative 47.  I want to thank GABA for inviting us here today.  I think you’re doing a great job taking care of the community, and leading the business community here.

“I’ve lived in the district for over 15 years. This is where I chose to buy my first home,  and this is where I chose to raise my children. We live in a great community, with hard-working people, family-focused, down-to-earth.

“However, during the past few years, I’ve noticed a lot of challenges.

“Last October, the Parkrose School District voted to cut an additional five student contact days. The children are being affected. Our streets still have potholes, and no sidewalks on certain areas. Businesses are closing, and so many of my neighbors and parents and in my kids’ schools losing their jobs.

“I’ve been a community servant in organizations like the Lions Club.  I am a Major in the Oregon National Guard, I am an eye doctor – I’ve been a business owner for more than 15 years, through good time and bad.

“I truly believe in the Lions Club motto, ‘We serve’. I have been serving, and I would like to be a strong advocate for our community at the state level.

“My vision for Portland includes three things: Because I am a business owner, I know that home-grown business is very important. Just imagine if our businesses thrive, and we can hire two [employees] each, how this will affect the tax base.

“We need a solid tax base in order to fund education.  An educated community is sick less, commits less violent crime, and is very competitive for jobs.  Not just here but nationwide and internationally. We owe that to our children – to prepare a community that is not just livable, but thriving.

“My vision also includes public safety. This doesn’t just include crime preventing, reducing crime, or read even reducing the fear of crime.  It’s all about focusing on the small things like crossing the street safely on streets that are safe.

“This is my first run [for office].  I am about hands-on, outcome-oriented projects, programs that affect lives.  In 2 ½ months of campaigning, I’m not going to be able to reach all of you.  But look at where I am from: I am a refugee who came to United States with nothing but the clothing on my back. From there, I feel that I’ve achieved the American Dream. I feel an American Dream exists for all of us – all of our children and our grandchildren. At the state level, will fight for East Portland.”

• To see Thuy Tran’s website: CLICK HERE.

Multnomah County Commissioner District 3 candidate Judy Shiprack speaks.

Multnomah County Commissioner District 3 candidate Judy Shiprack next spoke to the group.

“I’m currently the County Commissioner for District 3.  District 3 is pretty distinctive.  If you look at it on a map of Multnomah County’s four districts, it is geographically significantly smaller than the others. What does that mean?

“It means that we are more densely-populated than the other districts. In addition to being the most densely-populated [county district] in Oregon, we have also seen a migration, of both diversity and poverty, into this district.

“All of this means that you need to have an experienced advocate representing Multnomah County District 3 to take care of those safety-net services that we provide to the most vulnerable populations.

“However, to talk about my experience a little bit – I’m talking about it from the perspective of being a daughter.

“I came to Portland to be a schoolteacher. My mother, a schoolteacher for entire career, was very proud of me. I taught English at Jefferson High School – but only did so for a year. It was a wonderful experience; those students taught me a lot. One of those things that they taught me was that I needed to ‘move on’.

“I went to law school, graduated, and became a deputy district attorney. Law school, from my mother’s perspective, was a considerable fall in rank – going to be a lawyer, from being a teacher. So, you could imagine how ‘thrilled’ she was to learn that I left the practice of law to become an Oregon State Representative! As a politician, we almost never heard from my mother – a considerable fall from being a schoolteacher.

“I went on to become an affordable-housing developer, statewide. We developed affordable housing in Pendleton and Wilsonville. I became the Executive Director of the Public Safety Coordinating Council for Multnomah County. Then I ran for my current office.

“I talk about this, in the perspective of being my mother’s daughter, because five weeks ago, my mother, who was 91 years old, died.  During her deteriorating condition, I helped guide her through the maze of senior services that, even with all of my experience and public policy, I had a very difficult time navigating.

“One of the things that Multnomah County provides in our Senior and Disabled Services is assistance to families who are navigating the system. There are many of us who are demographically transitioning into that.”

• To see Judy Shiprack’s website: CLICK HERE.

Multnomah County Commissioner District 3 candidate Patricia “Patty” Burkett speaks.

Multnomah County Commissioner District 3 candidate Patricia “Patty” Burkett spoke last.

“I am very happy to be with you here today. I am a Portland native; apparently we’re pretty rare – although I do subscribe to the idea that if you’ve lived in Portland, or even in Oregon, for six months, you [kind of] consider yourself a native.

“I grew up in the Parkrose neighborhood originally, and now live the Northeast Alberta Street area, near NE 86th Avenue. When I was young, we moved into the Mount Tabor area and attended Mount Tabor Grade School. I was very active in school as a child, of course. Then, I went to Washington High School, which does not exist anymore. But, we still have our hearts in the right place.

“I worked at the Oregonian [newspaper] for my very first job. I made $42.50 a week. I was so proud of those checks.

“I’ve worked at many jobs, but I am a U.S. Army veteran, I’m proud to have served our country. I’m proud of all of these service members I’ve had the privilege of meeting. I was a legal clerk at Fort Hood in Texas, and worked on special court-martial proceedings cases. I was honored with three letters of commendation, and received a Three Oak Leaf Cluster award.

“I have been married and I have been divorced for quite some time. I have two adult children. My adult son was born in Fort Hood, so he’s got ‘the Army thing’ going on.  My daughter was born here in Portland. I’m really proud of both of them, and they both happen to be Jefferson High School graduates. My son is working in the acting field in Los Angeles; he’s going be playing ‘Dr. Dan’ on a show on the Discovery Channel.  My daughter works for Portland Public Schools, and she’s worked for them for nearly six years, and before that she worked for the court system.

“So, anyway, I lived, incidentally, off of NE 94th Avenue and NE Glisan Street.  I frequented the Gateway Fred Mayer, when it was just a little store.  I know many people in the area, and have traded with many business in Gateway. This is clearly my stomping grounds. It is a beautiful area of Portland. And I’m sorry to hear you [still] don’t have many sidewalks. That is too bad. People like to walk on them and take their children on them.

“I appreciate that I am not a seasoned candidate, and not experienced in what Judy [Shiprack] does. I do applaud Judy’ she is an incredibly talented lady.  I would like to give it a good shot. I’m a good reader, I love to engage smart people to help me, and I also am very confident that I could not only do the job, I could do it well.”

• To see Patty Burkett’s website: CLICK HERE.

Meet with GABA on May 10
Check out the Gateway Area Business Association on May 10. Networking starts at 11:30 a.m. and the meeting ends promptly at 1:00 p.m.

This month: Learn all about the upcoming Fun-O-Rama Planning and Fun Festival scheduled for May 19.

It’s at Russellville Park West Building in the Theater – 23 SE 103rd, Portland. Lunch: $8. Directions: From SE 102nd, turn east on SE Ankeny Street towards SE 103rd, turn left into underground parking, take elevator up to Theater. For more information about the organization, or the upcoming Fun-0-Rama, see their website: CLICK HERE.

© 2012 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News