After learning that the alleged hit-and-run driver had turned himself in, read what message mourners at a candlelight vigil said they’re trying to send …

As darkness falls, candles light the faces of those mourning the sudden loss of their friend, in a hit-and-run accident on SE Foster Road.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Residents along SE Foster Road say they’re dismayed that yet another pedestrian has been slain crossing the street.

The latest accident, described by police as a hit-and-run, took the life of 26-year-old Jason Lee Grant – who was hit by a Toyota Tacoma pickup truck on January 28, just a little before 7:00 p.m., while crossing Foster Road near SE 70^th Avenue.

Friends and co-workers describe the slain man, Jason Lee Grant, as a creative, caring individual.

At a candlelight vigil held at that corner on February 2, many of those present hadn’t yet heard that 53-year-old Jim Dean Patterson had turned himself in to police at the Eastport Plaza substation at 12:30 p.m., earlier the same day. But learning about it clearly didn’t alter the sorrow they felt for losing their friend – for many, a fellow musician and co-worker, who had been abruptly taken from them.

“He spent so much time in our studio, making music,” reflected Luke Alexander, while being comforted by his friends. “As far as Jason goes, he was a good friend of mine; we shared the same ideas. He was somebody who always took the time to think about somebody else; he was so selfless.”

Friend of the victim, and a fellow musician, Luke Alexander is consoled by his friends at the vigil held for the deceased, Jason Grant.

Alexander paused, and tried to regain his composure. “Somebody took his life and chose to run away from [the accident]. There’s no crosswalk here; there’s no lights. It should not have happened.”

Christian Smith, Chair of the Foster-Powell Neighborhood Association, responded, “We’ve been fighting for traffic safety improvements on SE Foster Road for years now – close to a decade. For 10 years we’ve had an unrealized streetscape improvement plan to address a lot of the safety issues. But, this is the fourth pedestrian death in about a two-year period. Something’s got to happen.”

Referring to the thoroughfare as the “Foster Freeway”, Smith reflected that the character of the street is “wholly incompatible, in its current configuration”, with the plans by the City and METRO to turn it into a “Main Street” – with more family-oriented businesses, cafés, and retail. “It’s still used as a freeway out to Happy Valley.”

Christian Smith, Chair of the Foster-Powell Neighborhood Association, says pedestrian safety has historically been overlooked in favor of the keeping traffic moving quickly and abundantly along the “Foster Freeway”.

Neighbor Rachel Cunningham stands with ROSE CDC’s Nick Sauvie. “Foster Road has been a major thoroughfare for a hundred years. But, times are changing; now there’s more pedestrians,” Cunningham says.

Saying SE Foster Road needs more crosswalks, better lighting, and more awareness, Rachel Cunningham commented, “I’ve lived two blocks from [this intersection] for about seven years. I love it here. But, we have a daughter who – obviously – won’t be allowed to be on Foster Road [by herself] until some major safety improvements have been made.”

Stan Hall and his son Henry both held candles, and stood in solidarity with others at the vigil. “I’m taking this opportunity to both pay respect to the victim – and to help my son understand how difficult it is to be safe when crossing the road here.”

As a resident of six years, Hall said he was concerned, because his son would be starting school next year – perhaps at Marysville. “At some time, when he gets older, Henry will have to cross the street by himself. I’m really hoping that this turnout will help get the City’s attention about what’s going on along this corridor.”

Henry Hall listens as his dad, Stan Hall, explains why it’s very important to be careful around major streets, like Foster Road.

At the fringes of the vigil, Grant Chisholm of “Grandma’s Funky Furniture”, 6852 SE Foster Road, buttonholed PDOT Traffic Safety Investigator Greg Raisman, and asked, “Why isn’t the City pouring more money into making Foster Road safer for this neighborhood?”

Raisman replied, “We’ve identified Foster Road as a ‘high crash corridor’. We’re really looking for every way we can to make this road as safe as we can.  We recently just secured a Regional Flexible Funds grant which will result in several million dollars of work between SE 50^th and 84^th Avenues. We’ve done some work in the last few years to increase the number of [marked] pedestrian crossings, and to do other things to make it safer out here. Clearly we have more work to do.”

Raisman added that had had come to express his condolences and to support the victim’s friends. After from hearing from many people that Foster Road’s speed should be reduced to 25 mph., he commented to us, “Foster Road is a ‘collector street’. It serves really important functions in moving traffic to our city. But, it’s really important to balance [moving vehicular traffic] with making it safer for people who live in this neighborhood.”

A trio of the victim’s musician friends sing a musical tribute.

As darkness fell, a trio of musicians gathered by a fence where a makeshift memorial had been erected and began to sing a song with the refrain:

“You and me on a cloud and no one else,
            Playing the cards that we’re dealt.”

According to Portland Police Bureau Public Information Officer Sgt. Peter Simpson, at the same time that the suspect in this case, 53-year-old Jim Dean Patterson, was, on sober reflection, on his way to the police substation to surrender – other officers were coincidentally already en route to his home, based on a Crime Stopper tip.

Officials now accuse 53-year-old Jim Dean Patterson of the hit-and-run death of Jason Lee Grant.

“Thanks go to the media coverage – and to the public – for all the tips that were called in to the Crime Stoppers lines,” Simpson said. “Ultimately, Patterson saw the coverage on TV, which factored into his turning himself in.”

Patterson was arrested by Traffic Division investigators and he was lodged at Multnomah County Detention Center on two counts of Failure to Perform the Duties of a Driver, Simpson added. “Patterson may face additional charges, after a Multnomah County Grand Jury hears the case.

“A green 2000 Toyota Tacoma pickup has been recovered from Patterson’s garage. The truck had damage consistent with this collision.”

According to MCDC records, Patterson is being held on $500,000 bail.

Perhaps a coincidence, but Police Traffic Division officers pulled over one vehicle after another for speeding and other infractions – during the vigil.

© 2012 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Take a look: They’ve changed meeting locations! See what folks at the Gateway Area Business Association are up to, these days …

Gateway Area Business Association members and guests settle in their new meeting place – the theater at Russellville Park – for their first meeting of the New Year.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
The time-honored Gateway Area Business Association January meeting was light on content, but big on excitement and enthusiasm, when they met at their new location, Russeville Park, on January 12.

Preparing her deli sandwich plate, at the January GABA meeting, is Laura Goodrich of Gateway Green Project.

Amid self-introductions, GABA President Fred Sanchez, of Realty Brokers, made presentations, and hinted of activities to come – including a revitalization of the Gateway Fun-O-Rama: With a community parade, fair, and golf tournament.

January’s GABA meeting, in pictures

GABA’s incoming President Fred Sanchez tells of the Portland City Council and Mayoral candidate forums they’ll host in coming months.

Quinn Crandell, sales advisor at Russellville Park, pitches the amenities to be found at his facility.

Fred Sanchez presents a ceremonial gavel to outgoing GABA President Lee Powell, of Powell Insurance Agency.

At the piano, Fred Sanchez leads members and guests in a song.

Fred Sanchez presents his wife, Ann, with the ceremonial “GABA Rubber Chicken” – as an antic token of thanks for her continuing support.

Amid musical fanfare, members of GABA’s incoming board who were present gathered for a round of applause.

The Parkrose High School Debonaires sing snappy tunes at the gathering.

Fred Sanchez talks up a new “Parkrose High School Musician’s Music CD” project which the organization is sponsoring, to benefit the school’s music program.

Bruce McCain to moderate Candidate Forums
At February and March GABA meetings, noted attorney Bruce McCain – a Gateway-based trial attorney, and noted on-air media legal consultant – will moderate Candidate Forums.

On February 9, members and guests are invited to meet and hear from Portland City Council candidates for Portland City Commissioner Position No. 1: Amanda Fritz (incumbent), Mary Nolan, and Teressa Raiford.

Also on hand will be candidates for Portland City Commissioner Position No. 4 (Randy Leonard’s current seat): Steve Novick, Mark White, and Jeri Williams.

During the March 9 meeting, the Candidate Forum will focus on front-running contenders in the mayoral race.

GABA meetings start at 11:45 a.m., and space is limited; arrive early. You’ll find them at the Russellville Park West Building in the Theater – 23 SE 103^rd Avenue. For more information, see their website: CLICK HERE.

© 2012 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

See why neighbors say this man didn’t go quietly, when the police came to the door asking about his whereabouts – and what was necessary to get him to surrender …

“Loud-hailing” the suspect that SERT officers thought was in this well-kept looking Lents Neighborhood house didn’t work, neighbors say.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
There was little news coverage after a warrant service in the Lents Neighborhood – a couple of blocks from the shuttered Marshall High School – on January 27. But, the event proved to have quite an impact on neighbors who watched events unfold that morning.

“When I came outside, I saw a lot of people out in the street,” recounted 50-year resident John Welch. “There were many police officers.”

This is one of the many windows broken when SERT officers lobbed tear gas into the residence.

Starting about 11:30 a.m., members of the Portland Police Bureau (PPB) Special Emergency Reaction Team (SERT) gathered around a house in the 4000 block of SE 91st Avenue, Welch said. “For the better part of an hour, they called out, telling the man to come out.”

A man and woman exited the residence – but not the man for whom police were looking. “They kept trying to coax him out – but, nothing.”

Officers with the Gang Enforcement Team test their gas masks before heading into the now-empty house to search for evidence.

After warning the suspect they were about to gas the house, Welch said SERT officers fired ten or twelve tear gas canisters into the house. “They shot them from all sides of the house.”

Even the tear gas barrage didn’t work – at first.

Witnesses say, after the house was tear-gassed, the wanted man stuck his head and body out of the upper window, and appeared to be gasping for air.

“After about 15 minutes, the guy stuck his head out the upper bedroom window, coughing,” Welch reported.

PPB Public Information Officer Sgt. Peter Simpson later said that SERT officers were executing a search warrant as part of an ongoing investigation into a gang-related shooting that occurred in the Fall of 2011.

“The Gang Enforcement Team is the lead investigation unit on this case. The suspect is in custody, and nobody suffered any injuries during the warrant service.”

Police say the took this man, 25-year-old Demarko Herbert Streeter, into custody – only after they gassed the house in which they found him.

Days later, Simpson named 25-year-old Demarko Herbert Streeter as the individual apprehended. MCDC records show that Streeter remains in custody at the Multnomah County Inverness Jail on a charge of Parole Violation.

© 2012 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Take a look at what these fine folks with the Columbia Slough Watershed Council are doing to help protect a hidden natural area …

Mt. Tabor resident Amy Kearsley, and her friend Jackie Fuller of the Brooklyn neighborhood, volunteer at Wilkes Creek Natural Area

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Even though many residents in the area may not know about the Wilkes Creek Natural Area at NE 154^th Avenue and NE Fremont Street, volunteers from all over the area have been coming by to restore this natural resource, and to continually improve it.

• See our 2007 story when the Wilkes Creek Natural Area was dedicated: CLICK HERE.
• Read about SOLV volunteers work at the area in 2011: CLICK HERE.

Sixteen volunteers braved winter weather on January 14 to continue work on the natural area.

Sam Schongalla, of Columbia Slough Watershed Council, says protecting this area helps improve the water in the Slough.

“Our work party here today is in conjunction with the Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service,” explained Columbia Slough Watershed Council Community (CSWC) Connections Coordinator Sam Schongalla.

“Our volunteers are putting in about 125 plants in about a half-acre area,” Schongalla told us. “This represents eight different species, including ferns and Dogwood.”

Gerry St. Pierre says he came from his home in the Kenton neighborhood to help out – and to take part in preserving the habitat for his children’s enjoyment.

Long-time resident Alice Blatt told her more about the natural area, Schongalla said. “I learned this morning that it’s a creekbed, fed by natural springs, with water coming from Larch Mountain. So, we have some really great water here – which needs to be protected.”

By volunteers stewarding this area, and planting plants, the slough’s waters that eventually find their way into the Columbia Slough are protected, she went on. “In turn, this helps provide drinking water, as it rehydrates our groundwater aquifer.”

Many hands make light work, as CSWC volunteers plant native species in Wilkes Creek Natural Area.

© 2012 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

You’ll smile when you see these happy kids. And, you’ll learn why so many people consider this Portland Police program a very good thing …

Kids get excited as they see the Portland Police Bureau’s “GREAT” SUV pull up in front of their school, teachers say.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
It’s been a while since we’ve attended the “graduation” of a GREAT class – a “Gang Resistance and Education And Training” class – presented by officers of the Portland Police Bureau (PPB).

• See our 2007 story on a similar event, at Parkrose Middle School: CLICK HERE.

PPB’s Youth Services Division Officer – and the coordinator of their GREAT program – Mike Paresa met us outside Alder Elementary School, on a very wintery day – complete with snow on the ground – before the GREAT graduation that morning on January 18.

PPB Youth Services Division Officer Mike Paresa gives shirts to each GREAT class participant at Alder Elementary School.

“We’re celebrating three classes that’ve completed our elementary school program today,” Paresa smiled.

“In this six-week course, we’re primarily teaching students ‘life skills’ – such as good communication, anger management, no bullying, who to go to when you need help, and the ‘Golden Rule’.”

In addition to teaching and reinforcing these skills through role-playing, Paresa said, another important outcome is “building good relationships between police officers and the kids. When they see us in public, we hope they’ll feel comfortable stopping and saying, ‘Hi, Officer Mike!’”

PPB Traffic Division Officer Kristi Butcher gives GREAT shirts to her students.

His teaching partner at the school, PPB Traffic Division Officer Kristi Butcher, joined us, and added, “With so many influences on kids these days, this training gives them the ‘tools’ they need to make better decisions – like staying out of gangs, and away from drugs. It’s about making good decisions that may keep them stay out of jail in the future.”

Although it’s only about half the length of the 13-week curriculum, the elementary-level GREAT program makes a positive impact, said Alder Elementary’s principal, Paz Ramos. “This is a program that really opens up our kids’ eyes about what’s in the community, and how their choices will affect the rest of their lives. Even more, it shows them what it means become a good part of the community.”

Alder Elementary teachers Angela Riddle and Angel Gonzalez say they agree that the GREAT program provides genuine value in their classrooms.

After having the GREAT program in her fifth-grade classroom, teacher Angela Riddle said, “We see students use what they’ve learned in this, and our other social step learning programs, in the classroom and playground. It’s helped reduce fighting and increase harmony. For example, when there’s a conflict, they will try ‘rock-paper-scissors’ to solve it for themselves, instead of hitting each other.”

Officer Kristi Butcher presents to Zobe Bazan a “top of the class” award.

Josue Marquez gets his award from GREAT instructor Officer Kristi Butcher.

Another teacher, Angel Gonzalez, added, “The best part is getting the kids to talk with each other. They may not act out and follow [these trainings] all the time, but it helps them become more aware of good behavior.”

The “graduation” was brief – two students from each of three classes were awarded movie passes; all received a certificate of completion. The students got GREAT t-shirts – and were treated to an all-they-could-eat pizza buffet in the classroom.

“It’s fun to interact with the kids,” Paresa said, as he watched the kids gleefully dine on slices of pizza. “And, it’s rewarding to help them learn the value of respect for themselves – and others.”

Selena Sanchez and Annie Cha enjoy their GREAT pizza party.

© 2012 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Maybe someday you’ll be able to hear their concert on our website. But, for now, see what you missed if you didn’t attend their annual Winter Concert …

The East County Community Orchestra performs their Winter Concert of audience favorites at David Douglas High School.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
As they have for the past three decades, members of the all-volunteer East County Community Orchestra (ECCO) presented their Winter Concert on January 13 in the Horner Auditorium at the David Douglas High School Performing Arts Center.

Again under the baton of Jack Mahoney, their program started with The Star Spangled Banner.

The musicians kicked off the first half of the program with Zacatecas Mexican March by Genaro Codina, followed up by the Finale of Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony.

The orchestra ably transitions from classical to popular music and back, in their concerts.

This was followed with highlights from “Chicago” by Ebb and Kanter, featuring Razzle Dazzle and All That Jazz. The auditorium seemed to warm as they moved on to a medley called  “Caribbean Carnival” by Francis Feese – featuring an Adante, Bossa Nova, and Jazz Samba.

The half concluded with Just a Closer Walk with Thee, played in the traditional New Orleans style.

Folks say they come for the free concert of great music – but also thoroughly enjoy the intermission, and the treats brought for them to enjoy by the orchestra members’ families.

During the intermission, the audience was treated to refreshments – tables laden with cookies and other sweet delights, coffee, and beverages.

It was during the program’s mid-point pause when we spoke with ECCO director Jack Mahoney.

Having conducted his first orchestra in the late 1940s, and having been a high school band director for 22 years, for Jack conducting and hearing the music surround him doesn’t get old, he said.

Conductor and Director Jack Mahoney remarks to the audience about the musical selection the ECCO is about to play.

“It is still really exciting for me to conduct, and to listen to musicians ‘put it together’ and make it all come out right,” acknowledged Mahoney. “I get a kick out of doing this – after all these years; I still get a kick out of doing it.”

Beyond that, the Director added, “Another genuine pleasure I get out of conducting the ECCO is working with all of these fine musicians. These are a great bunch of people. They work hard, and do their best. Every year, I increase the difficulty of the selections a little, just to make it a little more challenging.”

But, when selecting a concert’s repertoire, Mahoney said he and the orchestra – all volunteers – rehearse and play a variety of music. “We offer music that people like to hear, not necessarily music that the musicians enjoy playing. Maybe that’s why we have such a nice turnout for our concerts – our selections have good audience appeal.”

The audience settles in for the second half of the concert.

The second half began with music from “Faust” by Charles Gounoud.

Next, “Irving Berlin: The Early Years” – a medley featuring Say It With Music, A Pretty Girl Is Like a Melody, When the Midnight Choo-Choo Leaves for Alabama, Play a Simple Melody, and All by Myself, finishing up with Alexander’s Ragtime Band.

A compact arrangement of the famous George Gershwin concerto, called The Little Rhapsody in Blue, delighted audience members next, as did Sigman & Maxwell’s Ebb Tide.

Concluding the performance were highlights from “My Fair Lady” by Lerner and Loewe – a medley featuring Get me to the Church on Time, On the Street Where You Live, I’ve Grown Accustomed to Her Face, and I Could Have Danced All Night.

Director Mahoney says he still “gets a kick” from conducting music.

The members of the orchestra are amateur and professional musicians from East Multnomah County, Portland, and Vancouver, who volunteer their time and effort. The orchestra plays four to six concerts a year for various organizations.

For your calendar, the East County Community Orchestra Spring concert will be on Friday, June 15, at 7:30 p.m. – in the David Douglas Performing Arts Center.

© 2012 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

The market is still closed down – and the armed robbers are still on the loose. See what’s been learned about this crime …

This neighborhood market on outer SE Powell Boulevard was the target of three armed thugs, police say.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
As a worker at the small N & T Market on SE Powell Boulevard at SE 154^th Avenue were getting ready to close for the night on January 24, they were surprised by three thugs who rushed in the door of the Centennial neighborhood market.

These ruffians weren’t after a carton of milk or some smokes – they made it clear they were there to rob the store.

From districts far and wide, police officers rush to the area to join the manhunt for three robbers – at least one of them armed.

“The call came in at 9:14 p.m.,” confirmed Portland Police Bureau Public Information Officer Sgt. Peter Simpson. “East Precinct officers who responded said the three suspects demanded money.”

Apparently, the clerk wasn’t fast enough; Simpson said one of the suspects hit the clerk in the head with a handgun. “Then, all three suspects fled the area on foot. A witness reported to police that one of the suspects pointed a firearm at the witness as the suspects fled the area.”

East on SE Francis, and west on SE Gladstone, police search streets and yards.

Officers only find a quiet neighborhood – and no sign of the criminals – as they search yard-to-yard on this residential street.

One patrol car after another arrived, until at least eight officers – and a K-9 team – had fanned out into the neighborhood. But the three white male suspects dressed in dark clothing seemed to melt into the subdivision located at the northern foot of Powell Butte.

“However, a handgun was recovered,” revealed Simpson. “The victim [of the pistol-whipping at the market] was transported to an area hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.”

• If you saw something, or know anything about this crime, e-mail information to: CrimeTips@PortlandOregon.gov.

The market remains closed since the hold-up.

© 2012 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Getting to use just-picked ingredients just outside the door is one reason that kids are learning to cook – during this new series of classes …

Greta Stahle chops dill for a soup garnish.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Savory smells wafted from the door of the Zenger Farm farmhouse in the Powellhurst-Gilbert Neighborhood on the cold, rainy Saturday of January 14th.

And, that delicious food being prepared was mostly cooked by youngsters.

“This is our first ‘Cooking with Kids’ class,” welcomed the instructor and chef, Christian Anayas, who trained at the Culinary Institute of America. “After I graduated in 2004, I worked in a number of restaurants; and now I’ve come to Portland, where I attend Reed College.”

Since he’s worked at Zenger Farm three years, Anayas said he’s seen the need to expand the number of workshops offered by the organization. And, one way to get people more interested in local, fresh, and sustainable food is to show them easy ways to prepare taste-tempting dishes.

Chef Christian Anayas shows Harry Shaw how to season that pot of beet borscht he’s preparing.

“And, I thought it would be especially fun and interesting to create opportunities for kids to learn to cook,” Anayas said. “Cooking together can be a fun way for families to be together.”

Cooking soups was topic of that day’s workshop. “We started by harvesting some of the vegetables we’re using today from our ‘Kids Garden’,” the chef recounted. “And, we thought it would be nice to cook soups, on a cold January day. Today, we’re preparing two different kinds of soups – a creamy clam chowder, and red beet borscht.”

Some of the kids were stirring, keeping a watchful eye on the pots. Others were cutting up garnishes and fresh bread – all too busy to comment for us, beyond: “This is fun”.

“Mmmmm” is what mom Sandy Stahle says after sniffing the borscht at the Zenger Farm cooking class.

Monthly classes continue through Spring
On February 4, “Cooking with Kids” continues, with “How to make Pasta”. From 10 a.m. until 12 noon, Chef Anayas will help kids learn how to make pasta from scratch.

“You and your child will learn to mix, knead pasta dough, and use a pasta machine,” promises Anayas. “We will harvest herbs and vegetables from the farm, and return to the farmhouse to create make two kinds of pasta – fresh noodles, and filled pasta.”

Cook, eat, and go home with the recipes! The cost is $40 for one adult and one child (additional children, $15 each). To sign up online, CLICK HERE to open their “workshops” webpage. Residents of Powellhurst-Gilbert, Lents, and Pleasant Valley are offered a 15% discount on all workshops; and scholarships are available.

Call for more information about classes, discounts, or scholarships: (503) 282-4245. Zenger Farm is located at 11741 SE Foster Road.

The classes are held different Saturdays of the month. Be sure to check our COMMUNITY CALENDAR for upcoming classes!

© 2012 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Witnesses say this elderly driver was driving “out of control” when she plowed into the convenience store. See why they say it most likely wasn’t the pouring rain at the time that caused this smashup …

This car accelerated through the store window, witnesses say.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
On January 24^th, a drenching rainstorm darkened the afternoon sky, making it look like twilight — even though it was just a little past 2:00 p.m., when police responded to a single car accident at SE 82^nd Avenue and SE Flavel Street.

“I was waiting for a bus,” related witness Reg Whittaker. “This car made a turn and the driver stepped on the gas. The engine roared – as much as it could, for a small car – and it ran right into the market. No brake lights or anything.”

A wrecker crew member directs the winch operator, as the car is pulled away from the store.

The result was obvious. A blue, late model Kia Sephia sedan had jumped the curb and smashed the plate glass windows on the south side of the Bi-Lo Mini Mart.

It appeared as if only the heavy metal security bars had prevented the vehicle from shooting deep into the store.

This crash gave folks, inside and out at the convenience store, a real surprise.

“An old-looking woman got out of the car,” Whittaker said. “She was saying she was sure she was on the brake, not the gas pedal.”

According to Portland Police Bureau Public Information Officer Sgt. Peter Simpson, she was wrong about that.

But, no citations were issued. “It was an accident,” he added.

Untangling the car from the store turned out to be more complicated than originally thought.

© 2012 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Take a look and see how the ‘PTA Reflections Program’ hopes to change the way students look at the topic of diversity …

The winners and finalists in the 2012 PTA Reflections art competition at Gilbert Park Primary School stand proudly, after receiving certificates at the art show.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Before the monthly meeting of the Gilbert Park Primary School PTA got underway, a special art gallery reception and awards ceremony for the year’s “Reflections” program took place in the school’s gym, on January 10.

“It’s basically an art contest,” explained the program’s leader, Heidi Wilson. “The PTA Reflections program is open to any school that has a Parent-Teacher Association in good standing. This program is one of the largest student arts recognition programs in the country.”

Family and friends gather to admire the artwork posted for the show.

This is the second year that Gilbert Park has participated in the Reflections program, and the school is one of only a handful in the David Douglas School District to do so, Wilson remarked.

Nationally, the art program suggests six categories: Dance choreography, film production, literature, musical composition, photography, and the visual arts (drawing, painting, print-making and collage) – and Oregon adds two more: Three-dimensional art, and theater arts. “Since this is a new program for the school, Gilbert Park has chosen to stick with Visual Arts only,” added Wilson.

Sandra Hernandez, Mark White, and John Chism prepare to judge the works of art submitted to the competition. Anthony Glenn photo

Behind it all, Wilson commented, is encouraging students to participate in the arts. “I’m involved because, when many arts programs are being cut from school, it’s important to encourage the kids to do art.”

The judges – Sandra Hernandez of The Tree Institute, Powellhurst-Gilbert Neighborhood Association President Mark White, and John Chism, from the City of Portland Department of Transportation Safe Routes to Schools program – found their work cut out for them, Wilson said.

Heidi Wilson, organizer of Gilbert Park’s Reflections program, welcomes family and guests to the art show.

“As you can see, we had many entries this year – 38 children participated. Many were so good; it was difficult for our judges to select the top entries.”

Each artwork was judged on a 40-point scale – with 20 points awarded for reflecting the “Diversity Means…” theme, 10 points for creativity, and 10 points for artistic ability.

Wilson called the gathering to order, explained the program to the guests, and invited the student participants to come up to the stage to receive their participation certificates and awards.

Haris Tahirovic proudly shows off his 1^st Place Award in his category, kindergarten through second-graders. His artwork is to the left.

Fifth-grader Marquelle Nave is presented his 1^st Place Award in her category – the upper grade levels at the school.

After being judged at the local level, said Wilson, winning entries advance to the council district, region, and/or state PTA levels. “Top state award-winning entries advance to the national level of judging.”

One look is all it takes to see how well this competition draws out talent in these young students.

© 2012 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Learn which organizations came up with best ideas, as selected by the granting committee …

At last year’s Ramona Street Fair, folks came to learn more about the Lents area and eco-friendly ideas. East Portland News file photo

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
From among 33 applications for funding in the East Portland Neighborhood Office’s 2012 East Portland Neighborhood Small Grant Program, its governing committee selected sixteen programs when they met in December.

After evaluating the grant requests, the eight-member committee – composed of volunteer community members representing business, education, neighborhoods, and community organizations – selected these projects, programs, and events to be funded through its $37,000 budget.

After they planted seeds and grew crops at the Parkrose Heights Community Garden, participants gather for a harvest dinner in the fall of 2011. East Portland News file photo

The granted projects follow, by general neighborhood area:

Argay
In this northeast community, the Lao “Community Connection” received a grant for $1,500 to deliver a Portland Plan Workshop in English and Lao.

Centennial
To help finish a “Walking Trail” and engage neighbors at this Centennial School District school, just east of Parklane Park, Parklane Elementary Walking Trail project was awarded $2,000. Additionally $3,500 was granted in support of the 2012 Parklane Neighborhood Fair and Movie.

A Neighborhood Small Grant supported the 2011 Powellhurst-Gilbert National Night Out and Movie in the Park festival. East Portland News file photo

Glenfair
Once again, the annual Glenfair combined “Movie in the Park” and National Night Out party received a grant – this year, in the amount of $2,200.

Hazelwood
Three programs will take place in Hazelwood this year. A “Chess for Success” After-School Chess Club at Lincoln Park Elementary received a $3,500 grant; a special event to bring awareness to issues at East Holladay Park was awarded $901; and, because of the wide participation this event attracts, the return of the Gateway “Fun-O-Rama Parade” received approval for its $1,377 request.

Neighbors in Wauna Vista got a grant last year to help them host a neighborhood-wide National Night Out block party for the entire Centennial area. East Portland News file photo

Parkrose
Neighborhood leaders in Parkrose stepped up to partner with Comunidad Latina Aprendiendo to help them obtain a grant of $1,500 to host “Conexion Latina II”, intended to engage Hispanic speakers in classes that teach about Domestic Violence, DHS, and the Mexican Consulate.

Parkrose Heights
A $2,100 grant will helpthe Parkrose Heights Association of Neighbors produce their 2012 National Night Out Party; and these neighbors will host a “Movie in the Park” at Knott Park, for which they received a $1,245 grant.

Powellhurst-Gilbert
The Powellhurst-Gilbert Neighborhood Association’s 2012 National Night Out event received a $3,500 grant; and the committee again supported the East Portland Exposition with $3,500 in funding.

At an event to raise awareness for developing a new park in the Gateway area, the Hazelwood and Woodland Park Neighborhoods used grant funds to hold a public event at the site – the former “JJ North’s Restaurant” property  ChaCha the Clown twists balloons for delighted kids. East Portland News file photo

Lents
With the help of grant funding, two events will return to the Lents Neighborhood: Lents Founders Day 2012: A Celebration of Community, which received a $3,500 grant; and the 2012 Ramona Street Fair’s request for $2,650 was approved as well.

Wilkes
To help with plans to expand the Wilkes Park “Movie in the Park”, there was a $2,500 allotment.

Woodland Park
And, to help keep the spotlight on the proposed park on NE Halsey Street, the Woodland Park Neighborhood folks received $1,473 in grant support for their “Movie & Community Fair at Gateway Park”.

Dedicating the school garden at Mill Park Elementary School in June – partially funded by this grant program, is the project coordinator, third-grade teacher Kelly Cutler, principal Rolando Florez and secretary Julie Reed. East Portland News file photo

Projects supported by the East Portland Neighborhood Small Grant Program, funded by the City of Portland’s Office of Neighborhood Involvement, are “leveraged” by the grantees. This year, these granted projects are contributing a combined total of $135,840 in matching funds, in-kind donations and volunteerism.

For more information, See EPNO’s website: CLICK HERE, or call (503) 823-4550.

© 2012 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

See why it’s even easier, now, to safely discard medications – thanks to a new service in outer East Portland …

MCSO Public Information Officer Lt. Steve Alexander shows off the newly-installed “MedReturn” unit in their main office.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
It didn’t get much fanfare when the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) installed a brand new “MedReturn” prescription drug collection unit in the lobby of the Hansen Building in December.

But, as word has gotten out, more and more people are now coming in to the MCSO headquarters to make use of this handy, confidential service.

• To read our story about a similar box installed at Portland Police Bureau East Precinct in May, 2011: CLICK HERE.

“The program offers the public a means to anonymously deposit their expired, unused, or unwanted prescription drugs,” explained MCSO Public Information Officer, Lt. Steve Alexander.

“Prescription drug abuse by teens and adults is a growing trend,” Alexander continued. “The collection box helps to keep drugs out of the hands of individuals who may use them in an unsafe or unlawful manner.”

Further, it’s sometimes unclear to law-abiding citizens just how to safely rid their medicine cabinets of expired or unused medicines. “Throwing them away, or flushing them down the drain, pose potential safety and health hazards to individuals, and to our natural ecology,” Alexander added. “We dispose of them properly, in an environmentally-responsive way.”

Disposing of all kinds of drugs is easy and confidential, they say – just open the door, and drop them into the “MedReturn” box.

The idea is catching on. At last check, MCSO has taken in about 750 pounds of medicines, all now destined for destruction.

Asked if folks could turn in illegal drugs as well, Alexander replied, “Again, this is an anonymous collection device for any kind of drug – prescription or illicit. No matter, we’ll take care to safely dispose of it.”

Medications from households are accepted in any form, including prescriptions, over-the-counter, and pet medications. Individuals are asked to deposit the medicine in its original container – you can “black out” or remove the labels, which contain a name – and keep them tightly sealed and secured in a Ziploc bag to prevent leakage and contamination, added Alexander.

• Acceptable items – Expired, unused, or unwanted controlled, non-controlled, and over-the-counter medications, including pet medications. Liquid products, such as cough syrup, must be tightly sealed in a leak-proof container.
• Unacceptable items include – “Sharps”, syringes, thermometers, hydrogen peroxide, aerosol cans, and inhalers. Also, they are unable to accept medications from clinics, nursing homes, or businesses.

Hundreds of pounds of medications have been collected in the new “MedReturn” box (it’s emptied daily!) so far.

The “MedReturn Drug Collection Unit” was purchased for the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office with funds from Oregon HIDTA. By the way, the office is located at 12240 NE Glisan Street, just east of NE 122nd Avenue.

© 2012 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News