Check out what went on at a community happening they’re now calling an outer East Portland tradition. And, we say goodbye to a great East Portland cop, Officer Hoover …

Several hundred Lents-area neighbors looked to be having a good time, while they learned about neighborhood resources, at the fourth annual Lents Resource Fair.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
It wasn’t a school day, but the cafeteria at the Marshall High Campus on SE 91st Avenue was hopping on May 10, as the Portland Development Commission (PDC) hosted its fourth annual Lents Resource Fair.

Joleen Jensen-Classen, with Juan Carlos Ocaña, stands by, ready to serve a lunch of hot burritos and chips at the Resource Fair.

Informing neighbors
“The primary purpose of the fair is to provide information to the community about a variety of services and goods available to them in Lents, and in the greater Lents area,” is how Juan-Carlos Ocaña, a public participation coordinator at PDC, set the stage.

The Lents Urban Renewal team brought 40 government and nonprofit agencies together to set up exhibits and to talk with neighbors.

Jon Gail of the PDC neighborhood housing program discussed homeowners assistance.

Folks talked with representatives from the City of Portland, TriMet, Multnomah County, Holgate Library, the Lents International Farmer’s Market, and ROSE Community Development, to name just a few.

“The fair has grown into being an annual tradition,” Ocaña said. “It started as an opportunity to showcase the diversity of services available. Many people in the Lents area are struggling in the current economic conditions. It’s a good opportunity to show them different places where they can go for support.”

Nancy Hand talks with Portland Police Bureau Neighborhood Resource Officer William Hoover.

Goodbye, Officer Hoover
After his appearances at the event year after year, neighbors expected to see Portland Police Bureau Neighborhood Resource Officer William Hoover at the event.

For those who know Office Hoover – including us – seeing him this time was a bittersweet event. “It’s true; I am leaving the Bureau, and moving south.”

We asked Hoover if he wished to comment on this, his final public meeting.

“I spent my nine years in police work in this neighborhood and this police work for a reason: I think these are good hard-working people that deserve assistance.  I’ve done my best to help the good people of this neighborhood,” Hoover told us. “I will miss the people in this area a great deal, when I leave.”

Portland Fire & Rescue’s Station 11 C-Shift attend the event, along with Lt. Michael O’Keeffe, public education Officer and fire inspector. “We’re here helping out folks in the Lents neighborhood with fire safety education, and some fun games for the kids.”

Community-building affair
Another aspect of the occasion, Ocaña told us, is community building. “It’s a great opportunity for people in the neighborhood to get together to talk to other neighbors, talk to different service organizations, and also to enjoy a tasty meal and beverage.”

From what we saw, neighbors did have a good time – and learned – as they drifted by the exhibits, and munched on burritos.

Daniel Casey said he was enjoying his burrito. Actually, his exact comment was, “Mmmmm, this is yummy!”

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

It’s ore than your ordinary obedience school. See how this organization helps folks with a wide variety of disabilities have richer lives, thanks to their helpful pooch …

“Paws To Freedom” client Joanne Bryngelson says the organization has, with the help of her service dog Sadie, gotten her get out of the house and enjoying life again.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Owners bringing their dogs to the lower level of Holy Trinity Lutheran Church on SE 39th Avenue aren’t coming to help correct Fido’s bad habits.

“Welcome to Paws to Freedom, Inc. a non-profit service dog team training, support, and education organization,” greeted Mara Windstar, the organization’s founder.

When we visited during an open house, not long ago, Windstar explained that “service dogs” assist individuals with disabilities. “Some people have visible disabilities; they use a wheelchair or move mobility device. Other people have ‘invisible disabilities’ like a psychiatric condition, diabetes, or a seizure disorder. The dogs are trained to have public access skills, as well as special skills needed by the client.”

Public access skills, she noted, are those that help the client move about in the outside world – like going to stores, or to work. “Dogs that can be trained to retrieve items, help with doors, and turn on flights. Specifically what they do all depends on their handler and the disabilities.”

Lifesaving skills learned
Some dogs, Windstar continued, can detect the seizure. “But all dogs can be trained for seizure response, whether or not they can detect it.  They can be trained to push a button that is to a telephone to call for help for example. Often they stay with the person; if the dog is right up against the person lying against them, they can help the length of the seizure become shorter.”

Other dogs can be trained to help owners with diabetes. “They can be trained to detect low blood sugar. This can be lifesaving for some people for people that have frequent or unexpected blood sugar drops.”

Trained 23 service dogs
Since Windstar started training her own service dog in 2001, she and her volunteers have by now worked with a total of 23 service dogs.

“We’ve learned that not all dogs are suited for the program. We’ve also learned that training is a big commitment. The handler must be willing to work the dog 24/7. One of my jobs is to figure out how the owner can have schedule training. It’s very different from pet dog training.”

Partners in training
At the open house, a client, Joanne Bryngelson, talked about the Paws to Freedom, Inc. program. She appeared to be calm and relaxed as she lauded the organization and its volunteers.

Speaking about the reason she sought a service dog, Bryngelson explained, “I have really high level anxiety and agoraphobia.”

It was her therapist, Bryngelson recalled, that told her about the organization.

“The biggest difference that Sadie, my service dog, makes in my life is that I can go out in public and enjoy myself. I’m here today and I’m talking to you, and I feel pretty calm. It’s amazing. It’s just really easy to stay inside, but it’s so destructive; I don’t want to spend the rest of my life indoors.”

On the way out, Windstar commented, “We are an all-volunteer program; we’ll do it because we love it. We’re committed to people being able to be more independent.”

Learn more about their program online by visiting: www.PawsToFreedom.org, or by calling 503-231-2555.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

How to improve a community? One new homeowner at a time they say. Discover who’s behind this unique real estate initiative …

LHI’s Amie Diffenauer and Christine Rhoney, SUN Site Manager at Kelly Elementary School, welcome folks to the third annual Lents Home Buying Fair.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
For decades, the Lents Neighborhood – one of the oldest established communities in Portland – was looked down upon, because the streets were lined with shabby homes in various stages of disrepair. Renters who lived there didn’t care about the houses any more than the landlords did.

In 2005, a group made up of officials from government agencies, non-profit organizations, Realtors, lenders, and developers started the Lents Homeownership Initiative (LHI).

Volunteer Kristin McMillen helps sign in Tammie Travis and her kids, Sofia and Angelina.

“The benefit of encouraging people to ‘buy into’ the neighborhood – instead of renting,” said Amie Diffenauer, LHI Community Organizer, “is that once you start putting down your roots, you become more concerned about how your neighborhood looks; you’re more concerned with crime and other neighborhood issues.”

In this situation, one takes more ownership in his or her neighborhood, literally and figuratively, Diffenauer added, “because your assets are right there on the ground.”

Neighbor Patricia Cabrera talks Jill Kuehler, manager of the Lents International Farmers Market, scheduled to open on June 15 on SE Foster Road at SE 92nd Avenue. “We’ll have 20 vendors this year,” she says.

Added 200 new Lents homeowners
Many initiatives are long on talk and short on action. But by working together, the LHI partners have already helped over 200 families buy a home – usually it’s their first house – in the neighborhood.

“We’re helping dedicated, hard-working people of modest means get into nice, decent living spaces; these houses are real agreeable homes,” Diffenauer commented.

“LHI is important to our overall mission,” stated Nick Sauvie, Executive Director of ROSE Community Development, LHI’s parent organization. “ROSE stands for ‘Revitalizing Outer South East’. There are a lot of good things happening in Lents; there’s really a bright future here in so many ways.”

Gabriela Straczek of Washington Mutual with a potential homeowner, Jennifer Merrill-Sordelet.

One-stop home-buying help
Potential Lents Neighborhood homebuyers can take classes on building their credit, learning how to apply for a loan, and mastering the home-buying process. Another way LHI reaches out to the community is through their annual springtime Home Buying Fair.

Although this year April 12 was a beautiful spring day – tempting for recreation and getting out of town – more than 550 people came to the third Lents Home Buying Fair, Diffenauer told us after the event. “The fair proves there are many people dreaming of owning their own home, and are willing to spend part of a beautiful day to get information on how to make this dream a reality.”

In addition to the workshops and seminars – presented in five languages – held throughout the event, representatives from participating lenders, builders, mortgage and title companies, and home insurance agents were on hand, making the fair a one-stop source for home-buying help.

David Wright gets road safety information from Sharon White, City of Portland Office of Transportation.

SUN School partner
“The best thing about this event,” said Christine Rhoney, SUN Site manager at Kelly Elementary School, host and partner in the event, “is being able to bring people together.”

Rhoney told us that their “SUN School”, a school-oriented program of Portland Impact, “works to help people become more successful. It’s about providing information, education, and support, to help people through different stages of life; to help get them where they want ago. We co-coordinate and co-host this event with LHI, because it truly matches our mission.”

Representatives on hand from partnering lenders, builders, mortgage and title companies, and home insurance agents help folks attending the fair get all the information the need about buying a new home.

Says event is empowering
One of the participants, Jennifer Merrill-Sordelet, said her family is trying to buy a new home. “I love the neighborhood; this area really is being revitalized.”

Showing us the big stack of information she carried, Merrill-Sordelet said she appreciated the workshops on how to get a loan, down payment assistance, and all the different opportunities for assistance with down payments.

“I really feel empowered,” Merrill-Sordelet added. “I found out that I can qualify for one of the assistance programs. It’s exciting to think how great it would be to buy a house, instead of throwing money away on rent.”

The Manager of Burgerville #41, Joe Tharp, Asst. Manager Dan Hathaway, and co-worker Stori Coy prepare some of the 500 hamburgers served at the fair.

500 burgers to go
After fueling renters’ appetites to become homeowners, Burgerville grilled up burgers to feed the crowd.

“We’re invested deeply in communities and schools,” said Joe Tharp, manager of Burgerville #41 at SE 92nd Avenue and SE Powell Boulevard. “We partner with LHI as part of our community service. We’re building lifelong relationships here in the community, as well.”

The winners are …
“As part of our Home Buyer’s Fair,” Diffenauer mentioned, “we hold a drawing that awards a $4,000 down payment assistance grant. This year, we drew three finalist’s names: Angela Oswalt, Nathaneual Miller, and Amelia Sanchez. The grant will go to the first finalist who’s ready to purchase a home.”

Is this a sign pointing to a new home in your future in Lents? Check in with LHI and find out!

If you’re interesting in learning more about LHI, CLICK HERE, or call Amie Diffenauer at (503) 788-8052 ext. 105, or e-mail amie@rosecdc.org.

Fair sponsors were: Portland Development Commission, Bureau of Housing and Community Development, Umpqua Bank, HOST Development, Fred Meyer, Burgerville, Unitus Community Credit Union, Bank of America, US Bank, Oregon Housing and Community Services, Washington Mutual, and Wells Fargo.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News Service

Business and unions weren’t satisfied with the office; see who’s donated what to make this “cop shop” an attractive addition to the neighborhood …

Portland Police Bureau East Precinct Commander Michael Crebs tells Sergeant John Anderson, “This is looking really good.”

Story and photo by David F. Ashton
The first step to getting a Portland Police Bureau East Precinct substation in the Parkrose district was finding the location. The Rossi family helped out by giving the cops a favorable lease ($1 per year) on an office on NE Sandy Blvd.

While the interior of the office was adequate, area companies and volunteers wanted this substation to be a showplace.

Business and unions pitch in
Sergeant John Anderson has been guiding the project. He said that Parkrose Hardware has helped out a great deal in refinishing the police substation.  “They’ve donated the paint, lighting fixtures, locks, and exterior lighting, and the store manager has helped us take out the old fixtures and install the new lights.”

Western Pacific Lumber donated the wood trim and wainscoting borders for the office walls. Volunteers from the Painters Union, Local No. 10 – their union hall is just across the street – gave the office a professional paint job. “And, and inmate work crews from Multnomah County Jail will come out and help us by pressure-washing the outside of the building,” Anderson said.

Police presence in Parkrose
“The citizens want to have a police bureau close by,” said Portland Police Bureau East Precinct Commander Michael Crebs, as he checked the progress of the substation. “People will be able to get crime prevention information, crime statistics, and ask a question or put in a request for an officer here.”

The office will open in a few weeks, we’re told. This summer, officers plan on holding an open house to officially inaugurate the new facility.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

The Gateway Area Business Association was the latest platform for Jeff Merkley to pitch his desire to be the Democratic nominee in the US Senate race this fall. See what he told the group …

Gateway Keystone Kop Brad Sanchez of Realty Brokers presents the traveling, coveted Rubber Chicken Trophy to “the gals” at Pacific Northwest Title, Laura Steinke and Molly Malone.

Story by Watford Reed; photos by David F. Ashton
House Speaker Jeff Merkley took another step in his campaign for a seat in the U.S. Senate on January 10, by blasting President Bush’s policy on money, healthcare, and “big business” at the year’s first meeting of the Gateway Area Business Association (GABA).

Alan Sanchez, GABA’s President, introduced the Speaker of the Oregon House of Representatives, Merkley, by giving his curriculum vitae: “He’s been a GABA member and supporter for many years. In addition to being House Speaker, he represents our District 47. Jeff has served in the Oregon Legislature since 1998.

“He was president of the Portland World Affairs Council. He was director of Habitat for Humanity in Portland. He received his Bachelor’s in International Relations from Stanford University, and then went on to the Woodrow Wilson School of International Relations at Princeton. He served as a Presidential Fellow in Washington, DC, and worked for the office of the Secretary of Defense and the General Accounting Office.

“Jeff is a graduate of the David Douglas School District and he and his wife, Mary, and their children, are advocates for the Gateway area.”

Oregon House Speaker, Jeff Merkley, addresses members of the Gateway Area Business Association.

Merkley on the Oregon Legislature
“I’m glad to see the Keystone Kops are active in Gateway again,” Merkley began. “The Fun-O-Rama is a great part of the community. About the ‘Rubber Chicken’ — I’ve had the chance to eat a lot of rubber chicken dinners lately, but I haven’t seen one given as an award!

“We’ve had a state legislature in deadlock for many years. But this was a year of change. We moved forward this year on many fronts. We increased Head Start legibility funding from 50% to 75% funding. We made sure high schools and colleges got more funding.

“We made a lot of progress. But we have a long way to go. Our state’s economy will thrive, or not thrive, based on the quality of our educational system.

“We dived into the issues health care, environmental issues, and finance issues. I personally championed closing down ‘payday loan sharking’, charging rates of up to 500% a year. We estimated they made 100,000 loans a year. That stripped money out of our economy – taking money away from people who buy at our local businesses.

“I also championed fiscal accountability for the state in the form of a ‘Rainy Day Fund’; capitalizing it with 8% of the State’s revenues. This strengthens our State, and raises our bond rating.

“We set up a group pharmaceutical buying program. We had to fight the federal framework to do it. We now have the best bulk purchasing plan in the nation.

“We have had the most productive session in years. I’ve brought a problem- solving attitude to the legislature. I’m a policy guy. 80% of those on the right and left agree on most topics. When we bring members back to the center, we bring together people from different parties: It works. I insisted that majority committee leaders work with minority party members.”

At the meeting, Merkley outlines why he’s decided to leave the Oregon Legislature and run for the Democratic nomination to become a US Senator, a seat now held by Senator Gordon Smith.

Merkley campaigns
Asking for questions, a campaign supporter asked Merkley to talk about his bid the Democratic nomination to become a US Senator.

Speaking to about 60 members of at the GABA meeting, Merkley declared “Our nation has gone so far off track in the last few years. We have young children and we’re concerned about the future. My wife and I agree that we never saw such financial malfeasance (as the Bush administration has shown).

“The national debt has doubled in the last few years,” he explained, adding “we are now $9 trillion in debt.”

One reason, he said, is that America is paying billions of dollars for oil from overseas.

He also said more Americans are living without health insurance now than in the past seven years.

“If you don’t like the way things are going,” he said, “help send me to Washington DC.”

Without mentioning the President by name, he said, “Changing American policy is never easy but it is not impossible. Elect people who will fight for oil companies and drug companies.”  He declared that the United States Senate is “in a state of paralysis” because there are 49 Republicans, and 49 Democratic senators and two independents.

Asked about the need to overhaul health plans, Merkley said many small businesses “are saying that they can’t afford health plans” and may be forced out of business.  “And the country is at a competitive disadvantage in the world because of the cost of health care,” he went on.

Returning to his own record in the legislature, the speaker said he has been asked him how he accomplished so much.

It was because “we need to get people away from partisanship,” he said.  He declared that he has done “what people said couldn’t be done.”

If he is elected as a US Senator, Merkley says it will “send a message” that the state, and country, wants change.

Questions and answers
Q Kevin Minkoff, CPA: “The topics of the federal budget, dependence on foreign oil, the greenhouse effect, and healthcare are important to everyone. How are you going to change the system? Oil and health care are backed by big money! How will you change the system so those issues can be addressed and success can be accomplished?”

A Merkley: “Let’s not be under the illusion that changing public policy is easy. When citizens send a movement forward – when they send a different set of senators to Washington – it signals that it’s time for a change. In the Great Depression, we changed leadership and changed things from being a downward spiral to an upward spiral.

“We want to make the change. If we win this race, and take this senate seat, it will send a message.”

Asked about the special session for the Oregon State Legislature called last fall, Merkley says “An ’emergency’ is in the eye of the beholder”.

Q East PDX News: “While we think having annual sessions in the Oregon Legislature may be a good idea, the state’s constitution says it is to be held biannually. A State senator has sued because an ’emergency’ session was scheduled months ago. Why not change the constitution instead of going against it?”

A Merkley: “An ’emergency’ is in the eye of the beholder. If you are in an Oregon town that has suffered storm damage, such as Vernonia, it is an emergency. And, we’re dealing with the failure of the federal government to fulfill its promise to pay timber counties for money they formerly got from timber-cutting, and the need for better care for foster children.  More state police are also needed to intercept trucks bearing drugs from the south.

“Essentially, that is the gist of the situation. We have, in the past, called two or three special sessions during a biennium. The goal [of this special session] is to do it in a planned way and get [the work of the State] done. This is a different approach.  I’m not at all convinced that the citizens in the state will vote for annual sessions.

“Here’s another element: In the past, we met for six months. Then, during the 18 months we were off, members of all of the committees were scrambled; they had, essentially, to start over. This year, we’ve kept the committee members all the same. We asked them to spend the time in February working on issues for the next sessions.

“And here’s one more element: I’ve done things in the legislature that people said couldn’t be done. They said incumbents can’t be beat; we did. They said we couldn’t get bills past with a one-vote majority; we did. On the national level, we need to come together in this way.”

Q An Association member: “When will SE Powell Blvd. will see some improvement? Since the “Mt. Hood Freeway” was scrapped, improvements to this main highway between I-205 and Gresham have been at a standstill.”

A Merkley: “The City of Portland needs to step up and take care of its roads.” When it was pointed out SE Powell Blvd. is a State highway, Merkley backpedaled, and stated that the system for funding highway projects was very complex, and he’d look into the situation.

Merkley drew applause when he criticized “poor leaders” for overlooking “the east part of town, including Gateway. Portland leaders think the city ends at Mount Tabor; there is not much the state can do to make Portland give a fair share to east Portland.”

David F. Ashton contributed to this article.

© 2008 East Portland News Service

You’ll see why these folks are celebrating, when you read about the accomplishments of the Lents Homeownership Initiative …

Shaunna Sutcliffe of the Portland Water Bureau, Itzel Spehar from Portland Housing Center, and Joseph Portillo, a loan officer with Umpqua Bank, check out the buffet lunch.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Government and law enforcement officials agree that homeowners have more pride in their neighborhood than do renters, and so help increase the livability of a community.

The Lents Homeownership Initiative (LHI), part of ROSE Community Development, has successfully been turning renters into homeowners since 2005.

“Welcome to our quarterly LNI meeting,” the organization’s director, Amie Diffenauer, greeted us a few weeks ago. We’re celebrating the successes of the last three years of our program.”

LHI’s director, Amie Diffenauer, thanks the organization’s community, banking, city, and county partners for helping them achieve success.

Diffenauer explained that LHI is an association of more than 40 partners who are working toward increasing homeownership, and thus increasing the livability of the Lents neighborhood.

Sees results of the program
One of the 40 guests at the luncheon was Christine Rhoney, Portland Impact SUN site manager for Kelly Elementary School. She said she’s seen the beneficial results of renters becoming homeowners first-hand.

“At the Lents Homeownership Fair, held at our school this year,” Rhoney told us, “participants entered a drawing giving them the chance to win help with their down-payment. The family who won is a Kelly School family. The mother worked with us in the SUN program; her children go to SUN classes.”

This good fortune, Rhoney said, helped the family move into a home. “The result is stability for the families. Now that they have a place in which they can live, have pride in, and know they have been successful. The stability helps the kids thrive and be successful.”

Rosanne Lee, East Portland Crime Prevention Program Coordinator, agreed with Rhoney, saying “I’m a partner because homeownership creates a more stable community. People who own their homes are more invested in what goes in their communities. When people care, they work to help prevent – or report – crime.”

Nick Sauvie, director of ROSE Community Development shares some of the organization’s successes.

Luncheon banquet followed by awards
The formal meeting got underway after representatives helped themselves to a bountiful buffet supplied by Arleta Library Bakery Café on SE 72nd and by Russian Elegant Food European Bakery on SE Foster – with décor by flowers by Fleur de Lis on SE Division Street.

“We’re holding a celebration to cap off the third year of the Lents Homeownership Initiative,” explained Nick Sauvie, director of ROSE Community Development. “When one looks at the people who are coming together to support our mission of revitalizing outer Southeast Portland one home at a time – and when one sees the results of the program – it is impressive.”

LHI’s three-year goal was to create 175 homeowners; before the third year has ended, it has helped 181 families move into homes.

Diffenauer credits all of these housing professionals, gathered here for a special luncheon, for helping LHI exceed its goals.

Crime prevention accomplishments included closing six drug houses, sponsoring seven neighborhood watch trainings and holding seven problem-solving meetings.

Diffenauer and Sauvie stated that helping increase home values in Lents by 10% per year was also a goal. While they don’t take credit for market conditions, they do report a gain of nearly 16% in 2005, 12% in 2006 and a 10.5% lift in 2007 – compared to a 2.6% gain citywide.

A final measure of LNI’s success is neighborhood satisfaction. “Our goal was for a 10% increase in satisfaction,” Diffenauer said, “but by 2007, more than 60% of residents rated their neighborhood as ‘good’ or ‘very good’ in overall livability.”

Want to learn more? See www.rosecdc.org online, or contact Diffenauer at amie@rosecdc.org or by calling (503) 788-8052 ext 105.

© 2007 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News Service

No, we’re not encouraging you to give to roadside panhandlers! Read this, and see why you should give a couple of hours to help the Sunshine Division deliver food boxes on December 15 …

The Portland Police Bureau’s Sunshine Division Officer Phillip Kent, Tim McLaughlin, Britt Rosenberg, Maryanne Dehner, and Stephen Townsend are here packing food boxes – but they might not get delivered to needy families without your help on December 15.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
On Saturday, December 15, folks at the Portland Police Bureau Sunshine Division are hoping you’ll volunteer a couple of hours help them deliver some of the 4,000 holiday meal gift boxes to needy families in the greater Portland area.

84-year tradition continues
While the Sunshine Division is a year-around relief agency, we learned from Officer Phillip Kent that their holiday food gift dates back to 1923.

“Throughout the year, we provide emergency food relief to more than 500 families a month,” explained Kent. “Most of these people are hard-working folks – from every walk of life – who need some help.”

The holiday food boxes will go to families they currently serve. Additionally, Kent said they’re also taking names of other families in need of these special food boxes for the holidays.

Last year, after helping load cars and trucks with food boxes for delivery, East Precinct Commander Michael Crebs loaded up his own car and started his delivery route.

Why Commander Crebs volunteers
Don’t be surprised if you see the commander of East Precinct, Michael Crebs, on hand if you decide to help.

But you won’t see the commander standing around issuing orders. You’ll see him loading his car with food boxes and making deliveries.

“You’ll never forget the looks of joy on the faces of the folks getting the food,” Crebs recalled as he told us about one of his deliveries last year. “The parents were genuinely grateful. But what I remember most is the look of excitement and joy on the faces of the children. It gives you a great feeling.”

In past years, we’ve often seen entire families in the car on delivery day. “I’ve asked my son to cone in past years,” Crebs noted, “because it’s important for him to see the value in helping people who are less well off.”

The Sunshine Division Holiday Food Box program is the epitome of community policing, observed Crebs. “The police supply the food, and our volunteers touch the lives of those I need. Together, we’re building a better community.”

Easy to volunteer
“We rely on volunteers on Dec. 15 to help us get these food boxes out. Our largest source of volunteers are citizens who are willing to help,” said Kent.

Here’s how it works: Just drive over to the Portland Police Bureau’s East Precinct at 737 SE 106th Avenue about 7:30 a.m. You’ll see vehicles lined up along the street.

You’ll pull in into the Sally Port (drive-through garage), and Portland Police Cadets will load your vehicle with as many boxes as you’re willing to deliver. You’ll get an address card and map showing where to deliver the boxes. Afterward, you’ll bring back your delivery slips.

Want to help out more? Volunteer for the Holiday Food Box “Pack Nights” – Monday, December 10, and Wednesday, December 12, 6:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. For more information, call the Sunshine Division at (503) 823-2119, or see their web site: www.sunshinedivision.org.

© 2007 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News Service

Just when it sometimes seems only the wealthy get a break, learn how this unique program is helping turn renters into homeowners …

Andre Young, Community Relations Manager for Portland Community Land Trust, says he loves helping renters become homeowners.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Is a program which offers permanent, affordable homeownership – for individuals who would not qualify for open-market homes – too good to be true?

That’s what Portland Community Land Trust (PCLT) claims they do: They say they’ve got real program that turns qualified renters into homeowners.

To find out for ourselves, we stop by to audit a presentation by their Community Relations Manager, Andre Young, on November 12.

Before potential clients for this first-time home-buyer program arrive at the room he’s setting up at the East Portland Community center, Young gives fills us in on PCLT.

Not welfare housing
Their state-certified nonprofit organization invests funds in every transaction, “buying down” the purchase price of the home, Young explains; “Because the price of homes is skyrocketing in the Portland area. Our program helps the average citizen who wants to own a home.”

According to Young, homeowners under the program get to keep a percentage of equity whenever they choose to sell their home.

This isn’t a rental program, Young explains. “The homeowners under our program actually get title to the house. They pay the taxes. It is their home.”

“So, what’s the catch?” we ask.

“We offer a different method of home buying,” replies Young. “As the home appreciates in value, the homeowner gets a share of that increase. When the homeowner sells, they keep 25% of the increased value. 75% of the value stays with the home so the next family can buy that home more affordably.”

“Who knows their credit score?” asks Young. The first step to buying a home, attendees learn, is to make sure they have good credit.

Free class describes first steps
The first step for individuals interested in this program is to take an orientation class,” says Young.

“In addition to describing how the program operates, we show people how to take a look at their credit. We help them learn how to improve their credit score while they are on the waiting list for our program. Then, they’ll be positioned to be ready when their home becomes available,” Young tells us as he starts the class.

Does it really work?
We learn more about the Portland Community Land Trust from executive director Allison Handler.

“What track record does the organization have,” we ask.

“Our organization turns eight next month (we were founded in December 1999),” Handler reports. “So far, we’ve brought homeownership within reach of 85 families. And we expect to have more than 30 for sale in 2008.”

PCLT’s program preserves a stock of homes for first-time homebuyers – of moderate income – that will be affordable forever, Handler states.

Find out more
Not everyone qualifies, and there is a waiting list to buy PCLT homes. But from what we see, this organization is worth checking out.

Learn more by contacting them at (503) 493-0293 or see them online at www.pclt.org.

© 2007 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News Service

See how ROSE, an organization that’s revitalizing SE Portland, does it by taking action – instead of merely holding meetings and making plans …

ROSE Award recipients Andrew Beyer, Walsh Construction, ROSE Business Partner; Susanne Washington, Portland Impact, Community Partner; Rosanne Lee, Crime Prevention Coordinator, Community Leader; and Anna Zamudio, winner of the Outstanding ROSE Volunteer stand with ROSE Community Development executive director Nick Sauvie at their 15th annual Breakfast Celebration banquet.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Many organizations say they plan to help improve the lot of hard-working, but low-income, families and individuals.

But, for the last fifteen years, ROSE (it stands for “Revitalize Outer South East”) Community Development Corporation has actually been taking action: By building affordable housing, providing supportive services, and creating economic opportunities in the area.

Nick Sauvie, executive director of ROSE Community Development, tells how their programs allow families to lead better lives by providing quality housing at an affordable price.

At this year’s ROSE Donor Breakfast, executive director Nick Sauvie welcomed us, “Thanks for coming to our 15th Annual Celebration and Donor Breakfast.”

About the organization, Sauvie told us, “Since our first project, rehabilitating a house for a low-income family in 1992, our work has extended beyond housing. We are improving economic conditions in our neighborhoods, and giving people the tools and the support they need to improve their lives.”

Mistress of Ceremonies Amy Jacobs of Fred Meyer Stores introduces the morning’s program participants.

The breakfast program, held at OMSI on November 8, moved briskly along, thanks to Mistress of Ceremonies Amy Jacobs, who works for ROSE community partner Fred Meyer Stores. After a video program produced by Portland YouthBuilders that highlighted the organization’s accomplishments in 2007, several individuals were called forward to accept awards for their participation.

Andrew Beyer accepts the ROSE Business Partner award on behalf of his firm, Walsh Construction.

Business Partner Award: Walsh Construction
Andrew Beyer accepted on behalf of the company for which he works. “Because this is a breakfast meeting, I have toasts for you this morning; I hope you’ll all participate,” he began.

“First is a toast to Teamwork. This project [newly opened housing project Leander Court], for which we’re being honored this morning, demonstrates that remarkable things can happen when we bring a team of talented people together.

“Second is a toast to Commitment. What I’ve observed is that every team member came fully committed to making Leander Court a success. We can all agree that this project is extraordinary in terms of what it offers to the community, to ROSE, and to the City of Portland.

“My last toast is to Hope. The theme of this breakfast is ‘The Dawn of a New Day’. At Walsh, many of our projects are involved in bettering our community. What gets me up in the morning is knowing that we’re working to improve our community. The children at Leander Court have a safe place they can play, live, and have a good life with their families. Here’s to Hope!”

Portland Impact’s representative, Susanne Washington, accepts the ROSE Community Partner award.

Community Partner Award: Portland Impact
Accepting for her organization was Susanne Washington.

“I offer a sincere thank you to ROSE CDC. Portland Impact started working with Portland’s low-income families in the 1960s. It is exciting to have ROSE in outer SE Portland building truly affordable family housing. Our organization is always looking for places where families can live, get stabilized and back on their feet.

“Our ‘Bridges to Housing’ project helps homeless families transition back into the community; we have families placed at Leander Court and other ROSE facilities. We’re really proud of the partnership between ROSE and Portland Impact.”

Rosanne Lee, East Portland Crime Prevention Coordinator, here about to accept the ROSE Community Leader award from Nick Sauvie.

Community Leader Award
East Portland Crime Prevention Specialist Rosanne Lee was given her award, Sauvie announced, for “Working tirelessly in our neighborhoods to increase the quality of life by reducing crime”.

Lee responded, “For the past number of years, I’ve enjoyed working with ROSE in my role as a Crime Prevention Coordinator in both East and SE Portland. I have very good memories – including serving on the Brentwood/Darlington Weed & Seed board with Nick.

“I’ve watched their commitment to building community by building safe and comfortable homes and housing. But also, to help many acquire the skills they need to grow economically.

“One of my favorite activities has been working with ‘Shop with a Cop’ and ‘National Night Out against Crime’ events. I look forward to continuing our community-building and crime-fighting efforts in southeast Portland.”

Anna Zamudio says she’s thankful for the support of the organization as she accepts the Outstanding ROSE Volunteer award.

Outstanding ROSE Volunteer Award
As she accepted her award, Anna Zamudio said, “Thanks to ROSE Community Development for the opportunity to volunteer. I’ve learned to work and save money for our projects. ‘Shop with a Cop’ is a great program that helps young students get a good start in school. I’m really thankful for everybody who helped me.”

The donor appeal
ROSE Board Member Roger Anthony took the podium and told the story of how a family’s housing hopes were raised as they toured Leander Court together; then sank when he had to break the bad news: They had far more applications than they had available units.

ROSE board member Roger Anthony thanks the organization’s community and business partners – then makes an appeal to the organization’s donors.

“If we’d known how popular these apartments were going to be, we’d have built an extra floor or two. That’s why, in a way, we’re here today.

“At ROSE Community Development, we’re very proud and enormously pleased with the work we’ve done, and how we’ve grown over the past 15 years.

“At the same time, the need for affordable housing has grown even more rapidly. Every day at ROSE, we see young families starting out; workers who have lost their jobs’ people looking for a chance – or a second chance – to build a good life.

“At ROSE, we believe everyone deserves a safe, clean and comfortable home. We think that a stable home is the keystone to a successful life.

“Our theme has been the ‘Dawn of a New Day’. East Portland is changing. When I-205 light rail opens up next year, the pace of change will accelerate dramatically. When that new day dawns, we’d like to make sure we have your help to make sure there is a warm, welcoming spot for everyone in SE Portland.”

Nick Sauvie presents to the grand prize drawing winner of the gift basket: Cara Lukens of Seabold Construction.

© 2007 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News Service

See why Portland City Commissioner Randy Leonard came by personally to pick up their “rent check” for the next year …

Chairs of East Portland Neighborhoods applaud Portland City Commissioner Randy Leonard when he arrives at the first annual celebration of the group’s new coalition office.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
For years, the East Portland Neighborhood Office (EPNO) was hidden away in offices located behind the Portland Police Bureau’s East Precinct. Space was tight, and there was no room to expand.

And, it looked as if EPNO was about to get a rent hike – sapping funds that could be used to aid direct neighborhood programs.

The solution for their office problem came from an unexpected source: A Portland City Commissioner, Randy Leonard. A year ago, Leonard arranged for EPNO to move into the former offices of the Hazelwood Water District, nearly rent-free.

East Portland Neighbors executive Ray Hites, presents the “rent check” for the EPNO offices to Portland City Commissioner Randy Leonard.

Rent comes due
When the EPNO neighborhood chairs met for their monthly session in October, the atmosphere was festive. They were celebrating their first year in their new location – a building that they say has worked out well for them.

Because the coalition’s office is owned by the Portland Water Bureau, their new “landlord” – Commissioner Leonard – came by to pick up the rent check.

Judging from the expression on his face, the warm greeting Leonard received from the group surprised him.

After being presented with the official rent check – in the amount of $24.00, a dollar per month for two years – Leonard recounted how this successful relocation took place.

“One of the first things I did when Portland Water Bureau was put in my portfolio,” Leonard said, “was to ask for a listing of all bureau-owned properties, such as where the EPNO office now resides. They didn’t have one.”

The commissioner described how they created a property manager position filled by professional property manager Tom Klutz. “He organized and identified unused properties that could be put to good use.”

EPNO chairs presented Leonard with a Thank You card. “This is so sweet,” Leonard responded.

Turns fenced field into neighborhood park
“What we’ve done here proves that you don’t have to lock up public spaces,” Leonard said, referring to the once-fenced grounds that became Portland’s first “HydroPark”. “Responsible community members taking care of this building – and responsible neighbors looking after the park – are every bit as good as tall fences and security guards. It is a great deal for everybody.”

Hazelwood Chair Arlene Kimura told the commissioner, “The neighbors across the street say they’re so pleased that this property has turned into a place for positive activities. They don’t have to worry about bums using the open space for illegal purposes.”

Glenn Taylor, Powellhurst-Gilbert’s Chair, added, “And folks don’t have to use a 4-wheel drive to get down the road, since the city improved NE 117th Avenue.”

Ross Monn, Wilkes, gives Commissioner Leonard a list of the dozens of organizations that have used the new EPNO offices for meetings and trainings.

More than a coalition office
“I feel ecstatic about this evening,” Leonard told us, as he enjoyed a delicious light meal catered by Wilkes chair Ross Monn. “I remember walking through this building when it was a boarded-up vacant storage facility. Now it is a center of community activity in East Portland.”

Asked what the evening’s celebration meant to him, Leonard replied, “I’m a nuts-and-bolts, on-the-ground kind of project person. This is the kind of thing I love to see done. It is such a common-sense thing to do. Honestly, this is one of the high points of my career.”

© 2007 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News Service

Volunteers working with Senn’s Dairy Park in Parkrose didn’t give up on their dream to starting a community garden. Learn more about the first community garden in the neighborhood, right here‚

A little rain‚ actually a steady downpour‚ didn’t stop Barbara Nizich from planting her plot.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Hard to believe that just a couple of weeks ago, outer East Portland was drenched in a series of rainstorms. But that moisture, followed with lots of sun, has helped crops grow well at the new Community Garden at Senn’s Dairy Park in Parkrose.

Life-long connection to the location
Barbara Nizich was planting her crop when we visited. “I’m planting mostly vegetables. Peas, beans, beats, korabi, tomatoes and a couple of winter squash,” she told us.

Nizich said she decided to try a plot in a community garden because where she lives, in the City of Maywood Park, the tree canopy is too dense to grow a garden.

“What is making this especially fun for me,” Nizich continued,  “is, as a teenager, one of the first places I got to drive the family car was here to Senn’s Dairy, to get milk for the family. Now, here I am, tending my garden.”

On the Community Garden’s opening day, the park also offered crafts for kids. Here, Amy and Kyran Salvador are making birdhouses.

Park nears completion
Parkrose Neighborhood Association Chair Marcy Emerson-Peters stopped by to check on the new garden’s progress. “Isn’t it great? Even in the rain, people are coming here to plant their gardens.”

Emerson-Peters said each feature added to the park draws more attention to it. “Completion for our park, playground and all, is scheduled by the end of the year. This is exciting.”

Liza Judge and Leslie Pohl-Kosbau — Community Parks Director for Portland Parks & Recreation — help new Parkrose gardeners get started, at the new Senn’s Dairy Park location.

Garden plots for all
“In addition to tilled garden beds, this garden features raised beds designed and built for people with mobility and disability issues,” said Leslie Pohl-Kosbau, community parks director Portland Parks & Recreation.

Pohl-Kosbau said the garden offers a total of 26 plots. “We’re also installing a shed and picnic table for the gardeners. The area is also fenced to help protect the garden.”

A garden plot costs $45 per season, with a $10 deposit. “People can garden all year; the next cycle starts in Feburary,” said Pohl-Kosbau.

For more information regarding community gardens – anywhere in East Portland – call (503) 823-1612 or E-mail at comgardens@ci.portland.or.us.

© 2007 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News Service

Businesspeople and neighbors work together, as they plan this community’s future. Now they have gotten a look at the findings of PSU grad student planners. Interested in what they said? Take a look: the complete report is right here‚

Brian Ableidinger introducing the Parkrose Vision Committee

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
The people of Parkrose aren’t just wishing and hoping for a bright future, they’re actively planning for it.

Months ago, the City of Portland’s East Portland Planning Liaison, Barry Manning, suggested that Portland State University graduate urban planning students could help the area’s residents and business people develop a comprehensive plan.

After informal meetings and a group workshop called “Planning for Parkrose” on April 24, interested folks gathered at Parkrose High School’s Community room on June 6 student planners’ recommendations.

The text of the formal presentation is at the end of this article‚

Process helps set priorities
Brian Ableidinger, co-owner of Parkrose Hardware, welcomed the group that packed the meeting hall.

“As a business owner, getting input from the neighborhood association about what they want to see in their business district has been an eye-opener for me,” Ableidinger told us during a break in the program. “I learned, for example that most residents really want a Parkrose grocery store.”

When they first started the process, Ableidinger explained, he saw that the both the neighborhood and business associations had their own point of view. “The views are necessarily opposed to one another; they’re just not synchronized. I hope this Vision Committee can bring all of these points of view together to help us develop a plan for a good.”

Neighbor Arnie Osterhaus talks with one of the Portland State University grad student Brian, one of the group who prepared recommendations for the Parkrose Community.

Ableidinger agrees with the recommendation to expand the Parkrose Vision Committee. “I see the committee including other stakeholders in the neighborhood‚ such as the faith community‚ we want to address their needs.”

Having a united front is important to the process Ableidinger says, especially when it comes to Sandy Blvd. redevelopment. “If our businesses and neighbors show city government we are united‚ and have a professional developed plan‚ the leaders will be more amenable. We’ll have more power and influence.”

Retired Parkrose School Superintendent Mike Taylor and Bob Brown, Bob Brown Tires, discuss some of the options the student planners outlined.

Neighborhood leader approve
At the June meeting, Marcy Emerson-Peters, chair of Parkrose Neighborhood Association, told us, “This is a great idea. I’m impressed with the energy people are showing to get this going.”

Emerson-Peters said she thought it was important that businesses in downtown Parkrose are being encouraged to be involved with the plans for developing the city’s business district.

“From the standpoint of neighbors, business district improvements will make Parkrose a more appealing place to shop. It will increase the value of homes. The city will pay more attention to us. And, we’ll attract more investment. This is good for everyone.”

Parkrose people, from all walks of life, come to participate in planning the community’s future.

Parkrose Vision Committee Recommendation Presentation

Findings
1. What would bring you down to Sandy Blvd. more often?

• Grocery Store: 27% of total points
• Greater Dining Options: 13%
• Specific Specialty Stores: 12%
• Less Prostitution, Crime and Drugs: 9%
• Improve Neighborhood Appearance: 7%

2. What would you like other people to think of Sandy Blvd. ten years from now?

• Multi-Cultural Area: 17%
• Safe and Well-Maintained: 14%
• Family Friendly Area: 13%
• Prostitution Free Area: 10%
• Local Business Oriented: 8%

3. Name three things you think would make Parkrose better?

• Fewer Adult-Oriented Businesses: 20%
• Encourage Neighborhood Unity, Communication & Involvement: 14%
• Improve Neighborhood Appearance: 14%
• Decrease Prostitution, Crime, Drugs: 8%
• Prioritize Children: 6%

Goal
Creating a Downtown Parkrose area that would be a vital business district, provide a strong sense of community and thus, make it a “great place to be”.

Recommendations

• Expand Parkrose Vision Team
• Invite representatives from other community organizations
• Formalize monthly meeting schedule
• Undergo leadership/team building training

Improve Neighborhood Communication

• Maximize use of existing resources
• Employ a multi-media approach
• Develop Parkrose Neighborhood-specific newsletter

Market Parkrose Business District

• Promote Parkrose as a unified business district providing a range of goods and services
• Proactively establish district identity and culture
• Encourage neighborhood residents to shop locally

Enhance Appearance of Sandy Boulevard

• Improve storefronts and landscaping along Sandy Boulevard
• An aesthetic and well-maintained commercial district exudes success and attracts consumers

Expand Crime Prevention Programs

• Further develop current community policing efforts
• Increasing the sheer number of people on the street is the largest deterrent to crime

Support Sandy as a Neighborhood Center

• Work with ODOT to have Sandy recognized as a neighborhood center‚ not simply a transportation corridor
• A Special Transportation Area designation will help ODOT prioritize improvements

Host Neighborhood Event on Sandy

• Food festivals, street fairs, live music
• Incorporate existing events onto Sandy
• Prepare for and celebrate Parkrose’s 100th anniversary in 2011

Develop Community Design Standards

• Promote development appropriate for Sandy Boulevard
• Ensures consistency in future development and helps foster identity

Partner with Local Business Support Systems

• Take advantage of existing business assistance programs to encourage entrepreneurship
• Fill vacant and underutilized commercial properties

© 2007 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News Service