See the smiles on their faces as these kids learn the importance of growing food in their very own garden space …

In the Lents Children’s Garden are (Back row) Saige Keikkala; Bailey Schweitzer; Sarah Goforth–Children’s Gardening Educator; Mara Reynolds, Assistant ‚Äì (Middle row) Row: Joshua Keikkala; Madison Keikkala; Josh Ashbaugh; Grace Vu ‚Äì (Front row) Krista Ashbaugh (the young man with the squash); Jacob Ashbaugh.

Story and photo by David F. Ashton
Instead of scolding their children for getting their clothes soiled, some parents in outer East Portland are encouraging their kids to go out and “dig in the dirt” this summer.

These kids are taking part in a Portland Parks and Recreation program that teaches gardening skills to youngsters.

“We have 30 different community gardens around the city,” the Parks Department’s Children’s Gardening Educator, Sarah Goforth, told us when we visited. “Of these, three garden plots are reserved for children’s gardening. One of these Children’s Gardens is here in Lents.”

This program helps youngsters learn healthy eating habits, Goforth continued, as well as understand nutrition and discover the natural world in the community garden, close to their home.

She said that children’s gardening classes are open to kids ages 6-12 years old. And, they’re absolutely free of charge. “During the program, kids learn how to grow and care for organic vegetables, as well as learn about soil, insects, compost, biodiversity, and much more. Together, we make snacks, fresh from their own garden and the kids get to take home extra produce to share with their families.”

Goforth said the classes aren’t limited to the summer months, but extend into the fall.

The only such program in outer East Portland so far is at Lents Community Garden, on SE 88th and Steele. The Children’s Gardening Program runs every Thursday from 9:00-10:30 a.m.

For more information, or to reserve your child’s place in this FREE program, contact Goforth at (503) 823-1617 or childgard@ci.portland.or.us.

© 2006 David F. Ashton ~ East PDX News

Although it’s an annual event, see why this, the first Pancake Breakfast held by the Thelma Skelton “Loaves and Fishes” Center at their new location, was important to their continued success ‚Ķ

Joie Xiali, Lisa and Hank Barnett enjoy a great, hot breakfast on a rainy, wintery day – and, at the same time, support the agency that helps their parents by giving them hot meals.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
The hundreds of individuals, couples, and entire families who braved the cold, driven rain along SE Milwaukie Avenue were rewarded with a hot, toothsome breakfast a not long ago.

Guests kept the volunteers at the Thelma Skelton Loaves and Fishes Center busy as they served up Pancake Breakfast at the senior center in Brooklyn. On the menu were pancakes, biscuits with sausage gravy, ham, and eggs. Second helpings were offered to extra hungry diners.

Volunteers William Benseler, Colette Livermore, and Mike James work the grill and serving line, cooking up fresh hot breakfasts.

We talked with the Barnett family as they enjoyed a Saturday morning family breakfast. Their daughter, Joie Xiali, seemed delighted by her pancakes and syrup. Her parents, Lisa and Hank ordered the full breakfast.

“It’s a good breakfast, and a great cause,” said Lisa. “My parents are served by this ‘Meals on Wheels’ center. We’re happy to support them, because they do so much good in the community.”

Drivers deliver food, and compassion
Hank explained that Lisa’s parents can’t easily go shopping anymore. “And, it’s difficult for them to cook. More than that, they really appreciate the human contact. They’ve gotten to know the volunteers who deliver the meals. It’s often the highlight of their day.”

Meals on Wheels coordinator Merna Rabetoy shows off a craft item she’s selling to raise additional funds for the Brooklyn senior center.

First event in new location
Linda James, center manager, smiled broadly as she watched the center’s volunteers scurry about, serving the steady stream of breakfast patrons.

It was midmorning when we visited. James commented, “We’ve already served a couple of hundred people. The response has been awesome; we’re thrilled with the community support we’ve received.”

This center opened in February, James told us. “This Pancake Breakfast is our annual fund raising event. We did it when we were housed at the Moreland church. It is always scheduled for the first Saturday in November.”

There are two reasons behind their annual fundraising effort services, Janes said: “One is to raise funds to provide seniors with meals, the other is to raise community awareness about the work we do.”

Helps senior citizens stay at home
Loaves and Fishes centers serve seniors who need food service at home, because they find it difficult to shop for groceries and cook for themselves. Thus, James commented, it allows them to stay in their homes with a better quality of life.

The Thelma Skelton Center serves about 175 meals, Monday through Friday. Drivers deliver more of the prepared, hot meals to seniors’ homes.

Volunteers needed
“There are only three staff members at the center. “All the other workers here are volunteers. We love and appreciate our volunteers,” James related. “We are always looking for volunteers.”

If you’d like to help, the Brooklyn-based center needs more volunteer drivers who are willing to deliver the meals, and spend a few moments brightening a senior’s day. “We have 13 routes every day, for each day of the work week. Plus, we need about six volunteers here every day to dish up and package the meals to go out. Volunteers also serve lunch to those seniors who can come into our center for lunch.”

To volunteer, or find out more, call James at (503) 988-6334 or e-mail her at ljames@lfcpdx.org.

¬© 2006 David F. Ashton ~ East PDX News

Toxic levels of lead is often found in older homes. But you may be surprised to learn where lead can hide in newly-remodeled residences. Read this, and learn how to easily protect yourself — and your loved ones — from the avoidable tragedy of lead poisoning ‚Ķ

Perry Cabot, workshop coordinator of the Portland’s Lead Poisoning Prevention Program, tests a harmless looking dish ‚Äì and discovers toxic levels of lead.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Right now, you may have a very dangerous “heavy metal” in your home, out where your kids can play in it.

Even small amounts of it damage the body’s nervous system connections ‚Äì especially in young children ‚Äì and it causes blood and brain disorders.

The culprit: Lead.

No, the problem isn’t found in pencils; they’re made with graphite.

“Indeed, lead is a poisonous metal,” says Perry Cabot, workshop coordinator of the City’s Lead Poisoning Prevention Program at a class he’s conducting at the Sellwood Community Center on February 5.

There’s no way to ‘get the lead out’
“Lead is toxic because it is a heavy metal that is persistent in our environment, and it is a bio-accumulative metal. This means, when it gets in our body, it stays there for one’s entire life. It isn’t excreted. The more lead we take in, the more that stays there,” he says.

Cabot pointed out that lead is particularly dangerous to pregnant women and to children because it damages the brain of the developing fetus. It also damages the brains of young, developing children. “Sadly, the damage is permanent. Kids never recover from it.”

Typical sources of lead contamination
Lead is chiefly found in older, lead-containing house paint, Cabot explains. “When old paint is sanded, or breaks down into dust, it’s usually a very fine dust. Kids playing in the area can easily transfer this dust from their hands to their mouths and faces. This hand-to-mouth contact is a common source of poisoning of children today.”

Sherrie Smith, the program’s outreach coordinator adds, “Many people remodel at this time of year. Remember, more than 50% of lead poisoning cases happen because of in-home remodeling.”

Lead poisoning unlikely from very old pipes
We ask about the likelihood that, in the oldest of homes in East Portland, one could be poisoned by lead water pipes.

“In very old homes, there may be lead pipes,” Cabot responds. “But, more than likely, the pipes are cast iron or galvanized steel.”

Instead, it is homes built, or remodeled, primarily between 1970 and 1985 that are more at risk, Cabot said. “The risk is that copper pipes are joined together with lead-based solder. ‘Middle aged’ plumbing imparts the highest risk. When water sits in the pipes for hours, some lead can leach into it.”

Cabot shows participants how to use the free lead-testing tools they receive as a registered participant of the lead-safe workshops.

Workshop teaches how to be “lead safe“
Cabot says he doesn’t scare homeowners about the dangers of lead poisoning–he educates them on how to be safe, by presenting free Lead Poisoning Prevention Workshops.

“We tell people what lead is, what makes it dangerous, the most common sources of lead, and how we test our bodies and homes for lead. Also, we show people how to prevent lead from getting into us in the home environment.”

It’s easy to test blood for lead, Cabot explains. It is a simple pin-prick test available at the free, bimonthly Josiah Hill III Clinic. “We recommend testing for all children at about one year, then at two years of age. It should be routine screening.”

Testing your home
At the workshop, Cabot tells participants about expensive and cheap ways to teat for lead.

Cabot breaks out free testing materials for the registered class members. “The Community Energy Project provides some very useful and effective free dust-testing kits for people who attend our workshops. We also recommend–and give out in the class–a free “Lead-Check” swab.

Surprise hiding places
In homes, Cabot instructs, lead can be found in unexpected places.

“We were surprised vinyl mini-blinds imported from China may contain unacceptable levels of lead. One wouldn’t think mini-blinds are lead-coated, nor have lead added to them. But when they break down in the sun, lead becomes accessible in the home.”

Regulations are lax about the use of lead in overseas product manufacturing plants, Cabot says.

“You’d be surprised to learn the number of lead-contaminated children’s toys and jewelry sold at dollar-type stores. They’re cheap, colorful, and very attractive to children. When the lead is found in them, there are massive recalls. But many times we don’t find the lead until entire the lot has been distributed and sold.”

Learn how to safe from lead poisoning
Get more information on the frequent no-cost Lead Poisoning Prevention Program workshops by going to www.CommunityEnergyproject.org – or call (503) 284-6827.

© 2007 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News Service

The first parade of the season‚ this one’s a Portland Rose Festival Centennial event‚ takes the avenue on April 28. Read all about the organization behind it in our weekly series about East Portland Business Associations‚

Backed by the Royal Rosarians, 82nd Ave. of Roses Business Association President Ken Turner officiates at the grand opening of Joann’s Superstore.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
This association of businesses as started in 1987, and now has a strong membership that includes business members from all sections of the association’s boundaries. They are also very proud to count as members several neighborhood representatives; government representative; non-profit organizations and educational facilities.

This association represents businesses along and abutting the 82nd Avenue of Roses, from Portland International Airport in the north, to the Clackamas County line in the south.

A vision for change brings new name
In 2004, the Associations Board of Directors supported and approved a ‘new plan in direction’ to be undertaken by this business group.

Paul Ellison, manager of Bank of the West at SE 82nd Avenue of Roses and Division Street, plants community roses, with the help of Royal Rosarians and staff from Portland Community College Southeast Center.

First part of the plan was to get a wide range support to change the name of the street, making it “The 82nd. Avenue of Roses”. A resolution was passed by the Portland City Council in November, 2004 in which, from that day forward, our thoroughfare would be referred to as The 82nd Avenue of the Roses.

More than new designation
Adding “Avenue of Roses” to this storied thoroughfare’s name may not, by itself, create positive change. It is, however, a significant indicator of the action both neighbors and business are taking to improve this historic, geographic band of East Portland.

Second phase of their revitalization plan was to unite the neighboring residential communities with the business district in an effort to improve the real and perceived image that this area has been labeled with.

Working together, the group undertook the “We Report All Crimes” campaign. Neighbors and business people encourage businesses in the district to display the campaign’s window decals. The result was that several hundred businesses chose to identify themselves with the association, and the anti-crime program.

Mark Schmidt (right) helps organize volunteers, from both neighborhood and business, for the group’s “Window Cling” distribution effort.

Community-minded projects
This association has created projects with the neighborhoods in mind, as well as the businesses. They are designed to increase a sense of community, goodwill and prosperity in and near the district.

For example, all businesses and residences have been encouraged to plant roses on property that abuts to 82nd. Avenue. Co-coordinating with the Portland Royal Rosarians and the Portland Rose Society, eight official ‘rose plantings’ were held in 2006. This number does not include those businesses that planted roses on their own and without fanfare.

Dave Lister and Ken Turner, getting ready to install another Window Cling.

Sign caps designate area
The next effort was securing funding and support to participate in the City of Portland’s sign cap program.

This entailed creating a design, for a metal sign that would depict the Association’s new logo, on all city street signs on 82nd. Avenue.

Portland City Commissioner Sam Adams and Ken Turner admire a new “sign cap”, designating 82nd Avenue as the “Avenue of Roses”.

In late 2006, City Commissioner Sam Adams presided over the official un-veiling of the sign caps.

Come join the parade
In association with the Portland Rose Festival Association, plan now to enter or watch, the Avenue of Roses Parade scheduled for April 28th at 9 a.m. sharp.

“This event is a collaborative effort,” the association’s president, Ken Turner tells us, “involving several neighborhood associations, business associations, and many other organizations. Participants include bands, marching groups, Chinese Lions, the Keystone Kops, Royal Rosarians, Rose Court Princesses, Portland Corvette Club, clowns, and more.”

The Avenue of Roses Parade starts at Eastport Plaza, 4000 SE 82nd Avenue.  The parade will travel north along 82nd Ave.; then west onto SE Yamhill, disbanding at SE 78th Avenue. Presenting sponsors for the event are Eastport Plaza Shopping Center and Washman, USA.

Festivities continue after the parade, with a sidewalk festival hosted by the Montavilla East Tabor Business Assn. and Montavilla Neighborhood Assn.

One significant outcome of this event will be to prove to the broader community that SE Portland has something fun and positive to offer the City.

Member spotlight
Bank of the West‚ Paul Ellison, Manager
Ellison has been a very involved business for over 10 years. This type of time commitment is indicative of the desire of the business community to help mitigate positive change along the 82nd. Avenue of Roses corridor.

Eastport Plaza‚ Ken Turner, Manager
Turner has also supported the entire area by encouraging the healthy development of the entire area.

Washman USA, Portland Community College, Standard TV and Appliance, Banfield Pet Clinic and Bill Bitar, Elmers Restaurant are but a few businesses that have been very helpful in keeping 82nd Avenue viable as a business district.

© 2007 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News Service

Members of the East Portland Chamber of Commerce meet at different businesses across their area. Read this and catch up on a couple of their more interesting meeting locations‚

Doug Miller, president of Modern Color, shows off his new flatbed, full-color sign printer to members of the East Portland Chamber of Commerce.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
The East Portland Chamber of Commerce is focused on giving its members the tools to grow their businesses, learn to be effective business leaders, and be heard by local government officials.

And, Every Wednesday morning, from 7:30 to 9:00, a different chamber member hosts the “Good Morning East Portland” networking meeting.

A couple of weeks ago, folks started showing up early on a Wednesday morning at Doug Miller’s new business called “Modern Color“.

“Under the name PACIFIC SIGNS, we’ve been in the large-format printing business for many years in outer East Portland, off NE 122nd Avenue,” Miller explained.

Everything is bigger at Modern Color‚ even this giant sized poster admired by chamber members.

We watched, as a large printing machine zipped across an expanse of plain board, turning it into a series of posters.

“This equipment is designed for high level production,” explained Miller. “This flatbed can go faster than most machines. The most important thing about this machine is repeatability. Once we set up a project, we can do it again and again‚ each is identical.”

The combination of being able to print a 5′ x 10′ lowers the cost per print, allowing them to charge less per sign, he added.

Personalized toilet seats
Because his equipment can print of flat surfaces up to two inches thick, they can print on doors, ceiling tiles, and bath mats Miller noted. “The most exotic application we’ve been asked for is‚ and I don’t know if there is a big market for this‚ full-color toilet seats!”

Modern Color is located at 6132 NE 112th Avenue, just off East Airport Way. To learn more, see: www.moderncolor.net.

The “Queen of Swag”, Diane Nudelman (the one with the giant scissors) cuts the ribbon, officially opening her new northwest Portland location‚ with help from her long-time friends from the East Portland Chamber.

‘Swag Queen’ moves downtown

Long-time East Portland Chamber of Commerce supporter Diane Nudelman ran her advertising specialties business, “Advance Promotions” from a cramped office in the Hollywood District, but now she’s headed west.

Although she’s tried out other “tag lines” at chamber meetings, the one that stuck is, “Hi, I’m Diane Nudelman. I’m not a drag queen‚ I’m your SWAG Queen. SWAG is the ‘Stuff We All Get’.”

While the queen’s loyal subjects were sad to see her leave East Portland, she had a full house on June 6 as chamber members welcomed Nudelman to her new offices in northwest Portland at 224 N.W. Broadway.

With her typical cheerful tag-line greeting given, she reminded, “I make office calls, and you can still see me online at www.swagqueen.com.”

Check out what’s happening at the East Portland Chamber of Commerce by visiting their web site, too! It’s www.eastportlandchamber.com.

© 2007 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News Service

See what you missed if you didn’t join us at this delicious, fundraising event for the Meals on Wheels people …

Are the blueberry pancakes good? This young man, Benno Lee, says the breakfast is delicious!

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
More and more folks are coming every year to the CherryBlossom Loaves & Fishes Center’s Annual Pancake Breakfast – a hearty meal featuring pancakes, fresh fruit compote, eggs & sausage or bacon, biscuits & gravy, coffee tea, milk, or orange juice.

Although it was Spring Break weekend, the 12th annual Pancake Breakfast on March 28 found the tables at the Center’s dining room in the East Portland Community Center filled with hungry diners.

Volunteer Larecia McNett happily serves up another cup of joe.

Volunteer effort pays off
Because all of the servers and kitchen staff are volunteers – primarily from the International Association of Machinists & Aerospace Workers’ Local 63 at Boeing – and because much of the food is donated, all of the proceeds go directly to support the center’s programs.

“In addition to the good, steady crowd of visitors,” commented the center’s director, Bennett Bailey, “many people gave an extra donation, over the suggested price of the breakfast.”

The fundraiser is important, Bailey explained, “because it helps us achieve our mission – ‘that no senior will go hungry, or experience social isolation’ – by offsetting the cost of meals for those who can’t afford to pay for themselves.”

Taking the heat in the kitchen are volunteers Kyle Weston, Ron Breunig, Susan Black, and Janis Crandell.

Bailey, who manages the programs at both the CherryBlossom Center and the IRCO meal sites in outer East Portland, reminded us that the organization provides sit-down meals in their own facility, as well as a delivery service to clients’ homes.

“In addition to delivering meals, our volunteer drivers also provide social interaction with our clients. We have about 55 volunteers each day serving 500 to 600 meals to homebound seniors.”

You can help
They’re always in need of volunteer drivers, Bailey told us. “By the way we do reimburse 40 cents a mile, to offset the cost of fuel.”

Contact him by calling (503) 953-8104; or send an e-mail to bbailey@lfcpdx.org.

© 2009 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

See why more organizations – and more families – are taking advantage of this unique information exchange …

Hundreds of families come to learn about community resources at this year’s event held at the David Douglas Schools’ Fir Ridge Campus.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
The 5th Annual East County Resource Fair – held at David Douglas School’s Fir Ridge Campus, the district’s alternative high school – has grown considerably since we first attend the event. When we walked in this year, we saw more than 70 government agencies, non-profit organizations, and small businesse, represented at tables set up throughout the commons area.

“It started as a way to bring resources to our students,” explained Elizabeth Sommo, School-to-Work and Volunteer Coordinator at the school. “Students, and more importantly, their families, learn what’s available in terms of social services, employment services, non-profit organizations, and businesses.”

Elizabeth Sommo, the event organizer, welcomes guests to the Resource Fair.

This year, the fair was designated as a district-wide event, Sommo said. “We’re inviting all families from outer East Portland and East County school districts to participate. The fair is also a great way to build more community spirit, and have a fun event for people to attend.

“It’s a really great way for community entities to learn what’s going on in the school system, and for the school’s staff, students, and families to learn what’s available in the community.”

Arlene Kimura tells people why neighborhoods – and the EPNO neighborhood coalition – help make our city a better place in which to live.

One of the exhibitors at the fair was Hazelwood Neighborhood Association chair Arlene Kimura, who took charge of the East Portland Neighborhood Organization table.

“I’m here because our city’s neighborhoods are an important resource of which many people are not aware,” Kimura explained. “Some of these kids will eventually become our neighbors; they need to know why the neighborhoods are important, and how we help build stronger communities. They are our future citizens.”

Susan Palmer, of Multnomah County Health Department, School-based Health Clinics, tells parents how to access health care for kids.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Learn how the new ‘Lents/Powellhurst-Gilbert RideAbout’ service improves the quality of life for those who can’t drive …

With the help of East Portland Chamber of Commerce members Richard Kiely of Home Run Graphics, Rich Sorem of Stewart & Tunno Insurance Agency Inc., and Ed Bejarana of Znith Exhibits, RideAbout patron Willie Hall cuts the ribbon to dedicate the service.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
There’s a new way for older folks and the disabled to get around in outer East Portland. It’s called the “Lents/Powellhurst-Gilbert RideAbout”.

“We surveyed the community and found that there is a need for shuttles to take people who can’t drive out for shopping or medical appointments, and other areas,” explained James Uyeda, development manager at Ride Connection. “These individuals can’t always get a ride with friends or relatives; we fill in gaps to help them get where they want to go.”

Standing next to one of the new Lents/Powellhurst-Gilbert RideAbout busses, Ride Connection’s James Uyeda says the new service provides more benefits than simply getting a lift.

Ride Connection, Uyeda told us, provides transportation options, resources, and services for older adults and people with disabilities in the Tri-County area. “We work with 30 community service partners, including Metropolitan Family Services. We’re here at Eastport Plaza to kick off the new mid-Multnomah County services with one of three of our shuttles.”

Service beyond TriMet
Although TriMet gives rides to individuals who qualify for ADA para-transit services, Uyeda said anyone who’s 60 years of age or older, or anyone with a temporary or permanent disability, can call the new ride service center and get the transportation they need.

Beyond getting a ride, we asked if the service provides other benefits.

“This new services gives people the ability to come and go as they please,” replied Uyeda. “It gives them a sense of independence. Recent studies have shown that having access to reliable transportation for older adults helps them be able to remain in their homes. It gives them the ability to go out and feel part of the community.”

Metropolitan Family Services’ Krista Larson says the service helps “make connections” in addition to providing transit.

Service adds richness to lives
At the September 25 ribbon-cutting ceremony, Krista Larson, representing Metropolitan Family Services, told those attending, “Our mission is to strengthen families and individuals, while connecting them in the community. But equally important, is the connections which the service makes.

“The first person who got off the bus today, when it rolled up, was an old friend of mine. That kind of connection shows us how important the service is. We see it as a win-win situation; it provides richness to all of our lives.”

Opening this ride service will provide 30,000 rides next year. “This is the ‘tip of the iceberg’ in providing for the community’s needs,” Larson added. “We look forward to serving members in this community.”

Mark Morley, also with Metropolitan Family Services, says the service offers both bus, and private car transportation.

Volunteers facilitate many rides
At the event, Mark Morley, a program coordinator with Metropolitan Family Services, told us that the service they provide is twofold.

“First, we have three buses that will operate in outer East Portland,” described Morley. “And, there’s also a component in which individuals take others to destinations in their private vehicles.”

Last year, Morley added, volunteers provided over half of the hours logged, either driving service-owned vehicles or their own individual vehicles. “Volunteers are a critical part of the service.”

Looking on is Betty Vasser; she’s both a client and a volunteer with Metropolitan Family Services Ride Connection.

Looking forward to new ‘school bus’ ride
“I’m so thrilled!” exclaimed Betty Vasser who is both a client and a volunteer with Metropolitan Family Services Ride Connection.

“It’s really a great thing for older folks. In addition to shopping and medical appointments, when I go back to school, in the middle of October, I’ll be riding on Ride Connection.”

There is no charge for the RideAbout circulator shuttle, but donations are an important part of the transportation program, and are encouraged.  Drivers are happy to help with assistance through the door and carrying of shopping bags, at their own discretion.

To request a trip on the Lents/Powellhurst-Gilbert RideAbout, or with the greater Mid-Multnomah County U-Ride, customers can call the Ride Connection Service Center at 503-226-0700 to speak with a Travel Navigator.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

What have East Portland Chamber of Commerce members been up to these days? Take a look, right here …

New East Portland Chamber of Commerce member Jerry Chinn, Chinn & Associates, and Steve Messinetti with Portland Habitat for Humanity enjoy a relaxing evening a “Chamber after Hours” event hosted by Judith Huck at Classique Floors.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
In addition to the Wednesday morning “Good Morning East Portland” networking events held at various locations, members and guests of the East Portland Chamber of Commerce (EPCC) also gather to celebrate both established businesses and new services in the area.

For example, in late September, EPCC members attended a “Chamber after Hours” hosted by Judith Huck of Classique Floors located on outer SE Stark St.

Chamber co-founder speaks
Years ago, Huck was one of a handful of outer East Portland business people who founded EPCC.

“The reason I helped found EPCC is that East Portland is underrepresented in the greater Portland business community,” Huck told us. “Businesses here really need to band together to have a strong voice with the city and county – to stick up for the citizens and businesses in East Portland. The Chamber helps us be heard at City Hall.”

Delightful refreshments, served in the tastefully-decorated showroom of Classique Floors, makes for a great evening networking event.

‘Best little floor store in town’
“This is a fun event event for us because it brings folks in to see all of our wonderful products and gives them the opportunity to meet our great staff,” Huck said.

Classique floors is a local, woman-owned business serving in entire Portland area for 31 years, stated Huck. “We call it ‘The best little floor store in town’.”

In addition to stocking quality floor and counter covering products, the business also provides interior designers who help customers make appropriate selections, she said. “We have professional estimators who go on location, take measurements, and provide free estimates. But what really sets us apart from other stores is our fantastic staff of professional installers. All of our installations are guaranteed for life.”

About their product line, Huck said they offer floor coverings of all kinds: carpet, vinyl, ceramic tile, hardwood laminate floors, cork and rubber floors. They also provide and install countertop tile, stone and laminate countertops.

Proud to serve her community
“As a growing, thriving business,” Huck added, “we take pleasure in serving our community. We’re very involved with Habitat for Humanity and Snow-Cap Charities. We feel that it’s important to be part of our community.”

You can learn more by visiting their website: CLICK HERE.

Chamber members welcome new services and facilities

EPCC members Richard Kiely of Home Run Graphics, Rich Sorem of Stewart & Tunno Insurance (and Chamber president) and Ed Bejarana of Zenith Exhibits helps Willie Hall with Ride Connection (about to cut the ribbon) inaugurate their expanded service to residents in outer East Portland on September 25.

Liz Eslinger with SE Works, Margo Marver of Marver Shiatsu and Reflexology, Chamber VP Pam Olson, Farmer’s Insurance Agent and board member Norm Rice, Realtor with First Class Properties are on hand as a new building at Warner Pacific College is dedicated on September 27.

In addition to lobbying City Hall to make sure East Portland business owners are fairly represented, chamber members also help their community by facilitating ribbon cotton ceremonies and other events that welcome new businesses and services to the area.

To find out more about the organization, check their new website by CLICKING HERE!

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

North, south, east and west – we traveled to all of the National Night Out gatherings throughout outer East Portland. Here’s your chance to “ride shotgun” on our annual odyssey …

Carol Krikava, Parkrose Neighborhood Association’s Secretary, and Marcy Emerson-Peters (Chair of land use and community development) help out at the National Night Out information center at the Parkrose Festival and Cruise-in on August 2.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton (except as noted)
More than many other cities around the country, Portland – and especially outer East Portland neighborhoods – participates with gusto in the National Night Out Against Crime.

The purpose of these gatherings is to heighten crime and drug prevention awareness, and to generate support for – and participation in – local anti-crime programs.

Speaking about the event, Crime Prevention Specialist Rosanne Lee, who works with the East Portland Neighborhood Organization, commented at one of the gatherings, “They strengthen neighborhood spirit and police-community partnerships. But more than that, they send a message to criminals, letting them know that neighborhoods are organized and fighting back against crime.”

Not all events were on the “officially designated” dates – National Night Out activities took place all during the first week of August.

Where was the grandest event of all this year? Check out Argay Neighborhood Association’s party!

Saturday, August 2

Oregon Baptist Retirement Home
During the day, folks came by and enjoyed a BBQ luncheon, live Dixieland and Oldies music, participated in a silent auction, and walked among classic cars on the grounds in the 1800 block of NE 108th Avenue.

“We’ve got kids’ activities, police and fire bureau exhibits. and are having lots of run,” said organizer Lou Fontana. Proceeds from their event benefited Snow Cap Community Charities.

Parkrose Neighborhood Association
As part of the 2008 Parkrose Festival and Cruise-in, volunteers of this association talked with many of the thousands of attendees.

“We’re here to get the word out about how our association is actively helping neighbors,” said Marcy Emerson-Peters, past association Chair.

Tuesday, August 5

Gateway Apartments in Hazelwood

In Gateway, Robert Minden and James Oliver grill hot dogs for folks who live in their apartment complex.

For the first time this year, the Gateway Apartments, located in the Hazelwood Neighborhood, held a National Night Out event.

Gateway area neighbor Andrea Long presents some homemade baked goods to Portland Fire & Rescue crew members from Station 30, who were visiting their event.

“Because we have so many families living here, we decided to be part of this,” said coordinator Sandi Lattin. “We’re cooking up hot dogs and we’ve had all kinds of good picnic foods all afternoon – and also for folks who are just getting home from work.  It’s been great; the police department has come by, and firefighters from Station 30 also came to visit.”

Wilkes/Russell Neighborhoods

Kerry Brown shows off one of the several cakes decorated for the Wilkes/Russell event.

Our next stop was up in the northeast corner of outer East Portland. Everyone, including your reporter, missed seeing Ross Monn, former Chair of Wilkes, because of his recent move to Spokane.

Bonny McKnight and Alice Blatt sign in guests at Wilkes/Russell National Night out.

Ice Cream scooper Steven Johnson keeps busy.

But, Kerry Brown and her band of volunteers came together to produce an Ice Cream & Cake Social. Their event included entertainment, gifts and games for their 200+ attendees.

Glenfair Neighborhood Association

Helen Beehler, Donna-Lynn Kublick and Betty Twiss serve pizza for their guests at Glenfair Park.

Again this year, neighbors hosted a pizza dinner in Glenfair Park. About 100 folks came by to mingle and enjoy their hospitality.

Portland Police Bureau East Precinct Cadet Joseph Huff gives out “Honorary Cop Badge” stickers at the Glenfair event.

A “makeover” – done by a clown? “Pockets the Clown” (a.k.a. Patricia Bunnell) performs a makeup consultation for Genfair guest Rachelle Grant.

“We’re having a great time, out meeting our neighbors, and letting them know more about our neighborhood association,” said Donna-Lynn Kublick, Chair of the neighborhood association.

Woodland Park

Laura and Glen Heiner – and family – cook up a feast for their National Night Out luau in Woodland Park.

This event moved out of the Heiner family’s driveway – and took over a whole street in the Woodland Park Neighborhood.

Portland Police Bureau East Precinct Officer John Billard shows kids around his police car.

“We decided to have a luau this year,” said organizer Laura Heiner. “For us, the very best part of National Night Out is getting to know all of our neighbors. I have four kids, and I want to know who my neighbors are.”

Centennial Community Association

Centennial Community Association’s Patty Hicks and Tom Lewis get prize tickets ready for a give away.

More than 120 neighbors showed up at Parklane Park for a potluck dinner, prizes, and information during Centennial Community Association’s event.

Neighbors look at plans Portland Parks & Recreation is considering for further developing Parklane Park.

There were games for kids, face painting, and other activities. Many of the adults enjoyed talking with one another. But a real draw was a chance to see the comprehensive plans set out by the Parks Bureau for developing Parklane Park.

Glenfair’s Lifehouse Baptist Church

“The Haphazards” perform their positive brand of praise music at this community event.

“We’re part of the community,” said Pastor Dan Brown, “so we are participating in this community event.”

PPB Cadets Megan Anderson and Rae McKay help spread the word about community policing – while they enjoy freshly-made Strawberry Shortcake.

Plenty of kids’ games kept the young ones occupied and happily winning prizes, and adult volunteers grilled up hot dogs and other treats.

Argay Neighborhood Association

Portland Mayor Tom Potter is welcomed to the National Night Out event in Argay Park by association Chair Valerie Curry.

Our next stop was in the Argay Neighborhood. Their National Night Out event was already in full swing – and the “KoolTones”, in their sixth consecutive year entertaining there, was playing great classic rock and roll music for the appreciative crowd.

“Thanks to our 61 volunteers, we had a great event,” said Argay Neighborhood’s Chair, Valerie Curry. “We estimate about 500 people came out; Burgerville cooked 485 classic cheeseburgers at the event.”

Bringing the burgers is Rodica Pirv with Heavenly Cafe — and the association’s Transportation Committee Chair – one of more than sixty volunteers helping out at the event.

One of the guests, Portland Mayor Tom Potter, arrived while we were visiting. Potter told attendees, “I’ve been visiting NNO events, and this is the coolest place I’ve been all day. Congratulations on a great National Night Out. Remember to connect up with your neighbors. By working together you can help to keep your neighborhood safe.”

Miguel Ruiz gets a tour of Portland Fire &Rescue Truck 2 from Firefighter Matt Fullerton.

Curry told us an event of this size is only possible because so many individuals, organizations, and companies donate time and materials.

“Again, Shaver Elementary School Principal Cindy Bartman supervised children’s games with the help of SUN School Coordinator Helen Vank and other teachers and parents. Tina Scarborough and Dana McCray sat in the sun throughout the event selling food tickets,” Curry recounted. She also thanked Parkrose High School, Parkrose Hardware, Kyle Ziegler (CastleGate Realty), Jeff Reese’s Parkrose Chevron, and Target stores.

Mill Park Neighborhood Association

Todd Baker cooks up the food for 70 neighbors in Mill Park for their annual street party.

“I think the heat chased people off today,” commented Mill Park’s event organizer, Todd Baker. “The good thing about our event is that we get to know our neighbors. There are a lot of new neighbors in the area this year.”

Lents Neighborhood Association

At Lents Park, volunteers scoop up ice cream sundaes for visiting neighbors. Photo: Mackendree Thompson ROSE Community Development Corp.

For many years, the Lents Neighborhood Association has held an Ice Cream Sundae Social in Lents Park at their National Night Out event.

Portland Development Commission’s Lents Sr. Project Coordinator John Jansons and Housing Services Coordinator Javier Mena share information about area development.

Near the end of the evening, Karin Hanson, Lents organizer Judy Welch, and Mayor Tom Potter talk about the success of National Night Out programs.

According to organizer Judy Welch, they went through about 13 gallons of ice cream, and 400 Otter Pops, as about 250 people came to their event in Lents Park.

Thursday, August 7

Liesl Vistaunet, public relations and marketing director for Portland Adventist Academy, and Rosanne Lee, ONI Crime Prevention Specialist, greet neighbors at this NNO party.

“We’re having our second annual neighborhood block party, and we’re having lots of fun,” is what Liesl Vistaunet, public relations and marketing director for Portland Adventist Academy told us about their event.

Vistaunet said they were holding a block party to welcome neighbors to their campus. “Some people who have visited say they’ve lived here for 50 years, but never set foot on our campus.”

Mattison Bibb learns how to crawl under smoke to reach safety, with the help of Portland Fire & Rescue Fire Inspector Michael O’Keefe.

Christine Escalante and Katie Palumbo serve up flavored snow cones at the Portland Adventist Academy event.

Another reason for holding the event is that the Portland Adventist Academy is starting a building campaign. “Over the next ten years,” Vistaunet explained, “we’re rebuilding our school, on the same property. We want neighbors to know that we’ll be improving our campus – not putting in low-income housing units, or another strip mall shopping center.”

We’re looking forward to next year …
As the sun slowly sank into the western sky, so ended our National Night Out travels for 2008. Now, check our Community Calendar and make plans to attend your neighborhood’s association meeting next month!

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

See how the East Portland Chamber of Commerce is fulfilling its mission of providing a voice for businesspeople throughout the area …

The co-host of the Chamber’s Summer Fiesta, Vicki Mosier of CopperMoon Design, welcomes the folks coming to her studio and invites them to dig into some great Mexican food.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
One of the more social business groups, the East Portland Chamber of Commerce, held a Summer Fiesta networking event on the last day of July at the SE Portland studios of CopperMoon Design.

Events like these allow Chamber members and guests to get better acquainted, and learn how they can help one another. This after-hours event provided grand hospitality, including freshly-made margaritas and other libations. Folks snacked on tasty Mexican foods including quesadillas, chimichangas, nachos, cookies, and fresh fruit.

Realtor Norm Rice with First Class Properties mixes up another fresh batch of margaritas.

Hostess and webmaster
“I’m happy to be hosting the event with Pam Olson of Farmer’s Insurance and Norm Rice from First Class Properties,” said CopperMoon’s owner, Vicki Mosier. “I enjoy sharing my space with people. I feel fortunate to have found such a beautiful space in which to work. Having all these great people here brings it good energy.”

Mosier is the new webmaster for the Chamber’s web-based communications services. We learned that the organization will unveil a brand-new website on September 2.

EPCC VP Pam Olson, Farmers Insurance Agent, talks with Multnomah County Commission candidate Mike Delman.

Provides clean, elegant style
The communications business Mosier operates provides graphic design for both print and web. “I have a real clean, elegant style,” explained Mosier.  “I’m like a messenger who runs between a business owner and their customers. I listen to the ideas, thoughts, and message of the business owner – then put it on paper or screen in a way that the customer is drawn to and helps them ‘get’ the message.”

Learn more
To learn more about the Mosier’s business, CLICK HERE to visit her website.

Or, to learn more about the East Portland Chamber of Commerce (and check out their NEW website in a couple of weeks) CLICK HERE to visit their web site.

Members of the East Portland Chamber of Commerce enjoy hospitality at CopperMoon Design.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

See what planners learned when they checked in with residents – including kids – while drawing up plans for the 15-acre Beech Park site …

Park consultant Aaron Abrams writes down neighbors’ suggestions, as Sally McIntyre facilitates the meeting at Shaver Elementary School. Both are from MIG, Inc.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Until neighbor volunteers talked the City of Portland into allowing them to build the small Senn’s Dairy Park on NE Prescott St., the Parkrose neighborhood was entirely devoid of developed parks.

Although the actual creation of an expansive, nearly 16-acre park is still way off in the future, Portland Parks & Recreation has hired a firm to gather input about how the uniquely-situated Beech Park will look when it is improved.

Park on two parcels
The Beech Park site is unusual; it consists of two separate parcels adjacent to Shaver Elementary School.

The 10.07-acre southern parcel is bordered by the school on the east side, and by homes on the south and west sides. Directly north of the school is a second 5.64-acre parcel; bordered on the north and west by houses, on the south by the school and more houses, and on the west by a working urban farm.

This diagram, including an aerial view of the parcels, shows the two sections of land that will make up Beech Park. NE Shaver Street is at the top if the diagram, and Shaver Elementary School is at the bottom right.

Diverse, but harmonious, views expressed
In May, a series of workshops were conducted to solicit ideas and concerns from neighbors, business people – and children.

“There were diverse cultures present at the workshop,” Sally McIntyre, of the parks consulting company, MIG, Inc., told us. “It looked like everyone felt free to participate; and they all seemed to get along very well. We’re hoping that kind of participation continues.”

The consensus gathered from workshops, and questionnaires distributed throughout the surrounding area, showed that folks are “Looking to create a place for neighbors to enjoy, plus have a place that can be used by the school for educational programs,” commented McIntyre. “Our mission is to make sure the designs reflect what people want; that it fits in with the nature of the neighborhood.”

We stopped in at one workshop (on May 19). The back wall of the Shaver Elementary School gym was covered with design ideas which the school’s kids had submitted earlier in the day. About 35 adults were there, sharing their dreams for the park’s development.

“The kids were really interested in having ‘water features’ on the site,” noted McIntyre.

Comments and concerns raised
Al Garre – he farms land to the west of the park parcels – posed questions about access within and around the park. “I hope there’s some way of discouraging vehicles from entering and damaging the park – then hopping a barrier and damaging the farmland.”

A neighbor voiced the opinion that there should be a building for arts and crafts and for both child and adult education. Other folks chimed in, saying they hope for collaboration between the school and the Parks Bureau to develop joint-use areas.

Wondering out loud of there could be a way for kids to “take some ownership” of the park, Argay Neighborhood Chair Valerie Curry wanted youths to feel sufficiently possessive of the park that if they were to see vandalism or illegal activities taking place there, they would report it.

“Who is going to be there to clean up the mess?” questioned Curry. “In Argay Park there is a constant cleanup of messes visitors leave in the park.”

Children were given the opportunity to have a say in the design of Beech Park. These are a few of the diagrams annotated by kids during the public input process.

Consultant addresses issues
“Our recommendations will consider the concerns of the farmers, as well as the neighbors directly surrounding the park,” McIntyre informed us after the meetings. “The best way to create a safe park is to design one that attracts many people throughout the day. It discourages people from misusing the park. We’ll look at sight-line issues as well.”

For the past few weeks, McIntyre and the staff of Portland-based MIG, Inc. – a consulting firm that specializes in park planning and design and in public involvement in design projects – have been conducting this sort of ascertainment process in the area.

“Both adults and kids have been interested in contributing to the ‘art element’ of the space,” McIntyre told us this week. “It’s not so much having separate art objects, as simply having areas artistically designed. There could be ways to incorporate children’s art and other kinds of art in that way. There may be some ways to reflect different cultures in the neighborhood.”

The next steps
Working with Portland Parks & Recreation, the consultants will develop three alternative plans.

“We’ll be working on this through the month of July,” McIntyre said. “We’ll have a booth at the Parkrose Farmer’s Market on July 26. We hope everybody comes out and takes a look at the alternatives.”

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News