Community Resource « East PDX News

Parkrose community garden planted

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 ‚Äì anywhere in East Portland ‚Äì call (503) 823-1612 or E-mail at comgardens@ci.portland.or.us.

Planners’ recommendations for Parkrose revealed

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

‘Beach Blanket Bingo’ benefits Parkrose Bronco Boosters

Wait until you get a look at the kids in the Kissing Booth! Oh my! See why we had so much fun at this school event‚

The “Beach Blanket Bingo” fair is a festival near the end of school for the summer, at which student art is displayed and funds are raised for next year’s activities.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
It wasn’t long ago we were invited to attend a new event, sponsored by Parkrose Schools’ Bronco Boosters. Although the ocean is a long way off, the hosts chose the lively theme of “Beach Blanket Bingo” (a cultural reference most likely lost on the kids).

As we rounded the corner of the Parkrose High School courtyard, we heard a band rocking out, and saw lots of folks enjoying a casual, fun event. The smell of freshly-grilled hamburgers and hot dogs filled the air.

Decorating her rock, later placed in the Parkrose Community Peace Labyrinth is student Debbie Chao.

From games of skill and chance, such as the beanbag toss and a cakewalk, to a substantial exhibition of student artwork‚ there was plenty to see and do at this spring carnival.

Bronco Boosters Gail Volk and Allison Newman-Woods organized the fair at the high school to raise money.

“We put this on for several reasons,” explained Gail Volk. “One is to bring the community together. Plus, we’re focusing on the art our students have done this year. And, we’re doing some fundraising. We hope to raise $1,000.”

These funds, Volk said, are in addition to the beverage can drive the group holds the first Saturday of each month at Parkrose Middle School, the the income volunteers derive from operating their Coffee Cart at school games‚ “we work hard to raise money,” said Volk.

Emelie Robertson and Natasha Rose are selling T-shirts by the seashore‚ actually a booth‚ at the Beach Blanket Bingo event.

Christina Wolken and Peter Lundberg selling kisses to raise money. Pucker up!

Because of their successful fundraising, the Bronco Boosters have been able to donate more than in past years, added Allison Newman-Woods.

“We’ve supported MECHA, so this Latino student organization could hold their conference here this year; we also gave money to Tyree Harris so he could attend the Yale Leadership Conference; we’ve given money to our soccer and teen parent programs; we helped add to scholarships, too! We gave money to help the Parkrose High Thespians,” explained Newman-Woods.

We had so much fun this year, we wonder what the Broncos are planning for their carnival next year!

The band “Pompus Green“ [sic] rocks out at the fun fair with original music.

Lents farmers market grows summer-long selling season

Organization and hard work have helped the backers of the Lents International Farmer’s Market turn into an every-Sunday food-and-fun event. Take a peek at our exclusive coverage of their opening day‚

The market manager of the Lents International Farmer’s Market, Jill Kuehler, introduces us to some of their many vendors.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Last year, the northwest corner of SE 92nd Avenue and Foster Road was the once-per-month testing ground for a new kind of farmer’s market. Instead offering up standard farm fare, they specialized in providing produce with international appeal.

“We’re providing a place for immigrant and refugee farmers to sell their crops and goods,” is what the market’s manager, Jill Kuehler, told us. “That’s why we call in an ‘international’ market. We have international entertainment, food, and produce vendors. There are produce products many people have never seen before. This part of outer East Portland has diverse cultures‚ thus, we’ve created diverse marketplace.”

Janson Owens buying asparagus from Melinda Piche, from a farm at SE 49th Avenue and Tenino St. (known as John’s farm).

Looking around we saw cornucopia of fruits, vegetables, baked goods, plants, flowers, and prepared foods, many of which were grown or prepared by immigrants and refugees living in the Portland area.

Kuehler said that each week, international music, children’s entertainment, and educational talks and demonstrations by chefs, nutritionist, and gardeners, are scheduled. She added that they accept WIC and Senior coupons, and will soon accept the Oregon Trail card.

Evan Hansen and Sarah Sherertz, here buying fresh eggs from Bonnie Hodge: “Ten blocks up, 200 chickens, Brookside Farms,” she says.

Agriculture believers
“We believe that local farmers deserve a place to sell their produce,” continued Kuehler. “We support local agriculture. There are many lower-income neighbors in the area‚ and we believe fresh produce shouldn’t only be available in affluent areas. This market brings fresh produce and products to everyone here.”

Another unique feature of this market is the “Community Table”.

“Neighbors can sell surplus produce from their family gardens. They drop off their produce in the morning, we sell it for them, and they pick up the money in the afternoon,” Kuehler added.

Their hours are 9 am‚ 2 pm every Sunday. Come and visit them this weekend. Or, for more information, e-mail Kuehler at lentsfarmersmarket@gmail.com.

Da StarLiner Band ‚Äì an African reggae band with members from Ghana‚ plays their original songs.

NE Portland Rotary celebrates 50 years of service

Discover why this service club was founded “way out east” in Multnomah County‚ and why they’re still going strong‚

Holding a poster depicting activities of this 50-year-old Rotary club, is Northeast Portland Rotary’s treasurer, and a member since 1987, Shirley Wiltshire.

Story and photo by David F. Ashton
The Refectory’s banquet room was packed a few weeks ago, as the Northeast Portland Rotary club celebrated its 50th anniversary.

The club’s members were joined by wellwishers from other area Rotary clubs, and past members.

First-hand history
One of the two founding members, Keith Manning, gave us a first-hand account of the club’s beginnings.

“When we started,” Manning began, “there wasn’t much out here in Multnomah County. Most of the ‘city’ stopped at 82nd Avenue. Back then, Parkrose was ‘the city’; Portland was way out west. One of the difficulties of forming a club here was that our membership was so spread out.”

Asked why he joined Rotary, Manning explained, “To begin with, it was a means of acquaintance. After you get involved a little, you realize that you’re part of something bigger than yourself, or even your local club. Together, we work to help many people in many ways.”

Stephen H. Wiley presents Keith Manning, one of two living founding members of the club, with a plaque commemorating the 50th anniversary of the Northeast Portland Rotary Club. The other founding member, Aldo Rossi, was unable to attend the meeting.

The club first met at St. Clair’s, now the Pig N’ Pancake. They moved to The Flame at SE 122nd Ave. and Halsey St. When tghat was torn down, the club met at Chinese Garden. Today it meets each Tuesday at noon at The Refectory, on NE 122nd Ave. north of Halsey St.

Manning, who told us he operated a dry cleaning business at NE 119th Ave. and Halsey St. “for 40 some-odd years”, said Rotary gives individuals the opportunity to come in contact with the people they would not otherwise meet. “I’ve attended somewhere in the neighborhood of 2,500 meetings. You can’t be around this group for any length of time and not gain an education.”

Club members line up for a delicious buffet luncheon served at their regular meeting place, The Refectory.

The club’s current president, Nick Rossi, told us his family has a long history with Rotary. “In 1957, my dad Aldo was a charter member here. We’re still working to do good things for our community and the world. I got involved because of Dad. It’s nice to give back to the community.”

Through their international organization, Rossi said Rotary is the driving force for eradicating polio. “We’re bringing fresh water to impoverished areas. Locally, we provide scholarships for high school seniors, we’ve restored Camp Collins, and we have a number of youth activities.”

Rotary District 5100 Governor Thomas W. Jenkins presents the keynote address, congratulating the club for providing 50 years of service.

After introductions and other club traditions were observed, Rotary District 5100 Governor Thomas W. Jenkins addressed the group.

Jenkins recounted the history of Rotary, saying that Paul Harris, the founder, looked to create a group that valued fellowship, doing business with one another, and later, to be of service to their community.

Northeast Portland Rotary Club president Nick Rossi accepts a certificate of commendation from Thomas Jenkins.

We at East Portland News Service extend our congratulations to the members who keep the spirit of Rotary alive in outer East Portland.

Fair helps Lents renters become homeowners

Discover how this dedicated group of organizations is helping to revitalize the Lents Neighborhood, by dramatically increasing the number of homeowners seeded into their community‚

Amie Diffenauer, ROSE CDC, and Deborah Johnson, Host Development, talk with Angela Wilkinson‚ who says she’s interested in buying a home in Lents.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Business, community organizations and government agencies aren’t just hoping the Lents Neighborhood will improve. They’re taking action.

One of their projects was putting on a “Home Buying Fair” not long ago. By the time we’d arrived, families were streaming into Kelly Elementary School where the fair was set up.

Mipzia Menjivar checking folks in at the Lents Homeownership Fair.

“Welcome to our second fair,” Amie Diffenauer, Community Organizer for the Lents Homeowner Initiative at Lents Community Development greeted us. “People come here who are interested in purchasing homes.”

The fair, she explained, is geared to lower-to-moderate income families, and those considering buying their own home for the first time.

“Many people in our community don’t realize they have the opportunity to purchase a home,” continued Diffenauer. “At this event, we encourage homeownership as a possibility‚ even if it may be several years out. We show them how to start planning now, by improving their credit, building up some savings, and learning how to apply for loans.”

Kristin Breen, Washington Mutual, encourages Shannon Milliman‚ who tells us, “We’re exploring buying a home. Having a plot of land of your own, a garden, draws a family together. We’re working toward it; this fair is really helping.”

Homeowners make better neighbors
People who are homeowners, she said, tend to be more “invested” in their neighborhoods‚ and more than just financially. They take better care of their home and yard, and care about what is happening around them‚ in their street, and in their community.

“We have helped 130 families become homeowners in two years,” Diffenauer enthused. “Our goal is 120 more new homeowners in the next two years. We’re working to build a stronger community, encouraging people to buy homes.”

Provides education, connections and food
The nearly 100 potential new homeowners who attended talked with many of the 23 home buying vendors‚ such as real estate agents, banks, and other lenders‚ and twelve community organizations and government agencies were also at the fair.

In addition the meeting the exhibitors, attendees took home-buying workshops that were available in English, Vietnamese, Russian, and Spanish.

At the Northwest Natural Gas cook trailer, grilling up great fajitas are volunteer Darrell Thiessen and chef Buzz Busse. “We’re NW Natural. We’re giving folks something good to eat ‚Äì and showing them that gas is the best way to cook.”

And, the lunch cooked up by the Northwest Natural Gas team was indeed superb. Freshly grilled chicken fajitas, with all the trimmings, were mouthwateringly delicious.

“We’re happy with the diverse turnout and the enthusiasm of the attendees to learn about homeownership,” said Diffenauer.

About 100 families came to the fair and learned how they can become homeowners in Lents.

We ran into Nick Sauvie, executive director for ROSE Community Development, the driving force in this homeownership campaign at the event.

He looked pleased as he summarized what he saw, saying “This has been a great partnership among realtors, banks, and other companies who are helping people buy a home in Lents. It’s great for the homebuyers, and good for the community. There are good things ahead in Lents.”

Learn more at the work of this organization by visiting www.rosecdc.org.

Parkrose citizens unite to plan their area’s future

Individuals from Parkrose neighborhoods, businesses, and schools are hatching a “Master Plan” for their community. Learn why they’re doing it‚ and what they hope to accomplish‚

Leading off the Parkrose Community Workshop, Parkrose Neighborhood Association Chair Marcy Emerson-Peters welcomes the diverse group of outer NE Portland citizens who came to have a part in planning their area’s future.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
While the participants of the Parkrose Community Workshop, held at the high school on April 24, came from all walks of life, they all agreed that to succeed in the future, the community needs to plan, now.

Welcoming people to the well-attended meeting, Parkrose Neighborhood Association chair, Marcy Emerson-Peters told the group why she’s involved: “I grew up here and returned to Parkrose after school.”

Because residents and business people believe Portland’s planning bureau hasn’t made a real plan for the future of Parkrose, Emerson-Peters said it is up to community members to plan for their success.

“Do we need all the porn shops? Do we need more motels? Do we need businesses that bring in family-wage jobs?” Emerson-Peters asked. “We’ll discuss these questions, and more, tonight.”

Portland Planning Bureau’s Barry Manning introduces the PSU study team.

Supported by Portland Planning Bureau
Barry Manning, Portland’s East District Planner, has helped-along the group’s process.

“I got involved in the Parkrose Vision Committee,” Manning told us. “The idea is to figure out how to make Parkrose a more successful place. Sandy is the main street of Parkrose. We’re working to discover how this area can best meet the current, and future, needs of its citizens.”

Manning enlisted the aid of Portland State University students. “They are providing technical analysis to help the community move forward.”

Wearing their green T-Shirts, PSU Masters Degree planning students listen as Todd Johnson, far right, tells how they’ve worked with the Parkrose Vision Committee and describes the activities planed for the workshop.

Student planners pitch in
Todd Johnson was the spokesperson and lead facilitator for his fellow students in PSU’s Urban and Regional Planning educational track. He, as well as the other five team members, completing their Masters degrees.

“Our ‘final assignment’ is to conduct an urban planning project in the Portland area,” commented Johnson.

He said the group of Masters-degree candidates was looking for a project that required multiple disciplines and talents. “Our group has diversity of skills, talents and interests. This community lent itself to this kind of project. It is a good fit.”

Presentation is followed by planning tasks
During a brief PowerPoint presentation, members showed the group their statistical research findings.

Demographics – Neighborhood population has grown an average of 2% a year over the past two decades. Age distribution indicates residents of Parkrose are slightly younger than in other areas of Portland. The median annual income is slightly lower in Parkrose; about $34,000, versus $40,000 in most other neighborhoods.
Economics‚ Much of the commercial property along the main business corridor, NE Sandy Blvd., is priced between $10 and 15 dollars per sq. ft. This rate is lower than in St. Johns or Alberta ‚Äì and much lower than in the Hollywood district.
Transportation‚ Streetscapes have been improved, as investment in turn lanes and other features have been added. The average daily traffic count is 12,000‚ not much higher than other major Portland boulevards.
Main Streets‚ Sandy Blvd is considered a “main street” ‚Äì this allows for business development. The area is public-transportation-friendly.
Truck Solume — Along the Columbia corridor, Sandy Blvd. isn’t considered a main freight route, as is NE Airport Way or Marine Drive. Yet, a significant amount of truck freight moves along Sandy Blvd.

Neighbors, business people and other interested citizens sit around tables in small groups and ponder three questions regarding the future of Parkrose.

After the presentation, the workshop attendees participated in a small-group exercise, answering three questions:

What would bring you to Sandy Blvd. more often?
Ten years from now, what would you like other people to think of Sandy Blvd.?
What three things would make Parkrose better?

The participants’ answers were aggregated; then attendees ranked each concept by importance.

Earl DeKay (four generations of his family have been educated in Parkrose schools) and Joe Rossi look over the “Parkrose Assets Map” being used in the planning project.

Also, participants were asked to write and post comments on an “asset map” of Parkrose‚ and along a hallway-long panorama of Sandy Blvd.

Results unveiled on June 5
Johnson told us the final result of the project will be a document. It will include goals and recommendations for the use of the Parkrose Vision Committee members.

If you are interested in discovering their findings, come to Parkrose High School on June 5 at 7:00 pm.

Lent Elementary hosts citywide Arbor Day event amidst 100 new trees

Meet the former Lent student who will care for trees; see Mayor Tom Potter accept a national award, and make a proclamation; and witness two other groups being lauded at this very green event‚

Working along with Lent School students, METRO Commissioner Robert Liberty helps plant one of the 100 new trees at the school.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
There’s a whirlwind of tree planting and award giving on April 3; a citywide Arbor Day celebration is well underway when we arrive.

We speak first with our friend, Lent School (formerly called Lent Elementary) principal Linda Ralley, who sets the stage for us.

“This activity involves Lent students making an important improvement to the school grounds, the community, and the planet,” Ralley tells us, as we look over the 100 medium-sized trees just planted around the schoolyard.

“The lesson we hope the students take away from this is that we all need to work together for our common good. It is important they know this, whether they are in kindergarten or in sixth grade‚ we’re all part of this together.”

Arborist Terrill Collier says he attended classes in the building behind him, at Lent Elementary School.

Meet the “Lents Tree Man”
We next met Terrill Collier, of Collier Arbor Care. The company was founded by his late father in 1937, and is one of Portland’s oldest tree and shrub care companies.

“I went to school here at Lent Elementary,” says Collier. Glancing over his shoulder, he continues: “I went to school in that small classroom building. I grew up in this neighborhood and have lived here all my life.”

Collier says the school is the exactly the same as he remembers it from over 30 years ago‚ including the fact there are no trees anywhere on the expansive grounds. “While it’s a shame we had to wait this long to plant these trees, we’ve now done it with the help of hundreds of students. This is the start‚ this is the time to do it. Future generations‚ my kids, and their kids‚ will enjoy the shade of the trees.”

Collier says his company seeks out an Arbor Day project in their service area each year at which to volunteer. “It is a pleasure to work with kids. It is encouraging to see their enthusiasm. It is special for me. Today we’re helping by watering the trees, and we’ll take care of them through the summer. Our company is committed to making sure they get a good start and grow strong.”

500 students plant trees
Collier had lots of help with the Lent School tree planting.

“About 500 kids planted trees today, with the help of 60 Home Depot employee volunteers,” explains Neighborhood Trees manager Brighton West, with Friends of Trees.

It is important to get youngsters involved, West tells us, “Because, in this part of Lents, there aren’t a lot of trees. We’re trying to reforest Portland.”

Kicks off 30th Portland Arbor Day — and month
Zari Santner, director of Portland Parks & Recreation, welcomes everyone to the day’s formal program. “This [Lent School planting project] is Portland’s 30th Arbor Day Celebration. This effort is creating a new neighborhood arboretum‚ the sixth in Portland.”

Mayor Tom Potter proclaims April to be “Tree Month” in Portland.

Portland’s mayor proclaims
“Isn’t this an exciting day?” Mayor Tom Potter asks of the Lent students gathered in front of him. “You’re making your school more beautiful by planting trees all around it.”

Potter continues, “As Mayor, I get to issue proclamations. This means we honor people and events that help make Portland a great city. Here is my proclamation for this day:
“Whereas‚ Portland, Oregon, known as the City of Roses, and the City of Trees, is one of America’s most livable cities;
“Whereas, this community’s livability and quality of life can be attributed, in part, to the extraordinary collection of trees along its streets and in parks and private property, including Lent School;
“Whereas, this important urban forest is the result of careful stewardship, and the commitment to the propagation and management of trees in Portland;
“Whereas‚ for the 30th year in a row, Portland has been recognized for its high quality arboricultural efforts by the National Arbor Day Foundation, designating Portland as a “Tree City U.S.A.”;
“Whereas‚ Portland, Oregon, celebrates trees year ’round, with continued planting, with special recognition on Arbor Day, April 3, 2007;
“Therefore‚ I, Tom Potter, Mayor of the City of Portland, the City of Roses and City of Trees, do hereby proclaim April, 2007, to be Arbor Month.”

Mayor Tom Potter holds aloft the award recognizing the 30th year Portland has been named a “Tree City U.S.A.”

City lauded for tree efforts
Paul Reis, Oregon Department of Forestry, Urban & Community Forestry Program Manager and Kevin Sander, National Arbor Day Foundation then present the foundation’s “Tree City USA Award” to Ed Washington, Chair, and Portland Urban Forestry Commission, commission members and Mayor Potter.

“This is a ‘pat-on-the-back’ for supporting trees here in the Portland Area,” extols METRO Commissioner Robert Liberty.

“By planting the trees, you are creating something, contributing to a better future for your area,” METRO Commissioner Robert Liberty tells gathered students. “I hope you remember this day until you are as ancient as I am.”

Next, Bob Naito steps to the microphone to present two special “Bill Naito Community Trees Awards”.

Individual Community Tree Award: Ed Kerns
The Outstanding Individual Community Trees Award, is presented to a man we’ve called “Springwater Ed” Kerns in our news coverage over the years.

A true modern-day hero, Ed Kerns is recognized for the efforts he’s organized along the Springwater Trail since 1995.

“Recognizing the uniqueness of Johnson Creek in 1995, when the Springwater Trail was built,” Naito proclaims, “Kerns realized the potential of educating students about the wonders of trees and plants. Using the trail as a tool to get students from Kelly Elementary and Marshall High School involved in the natural environment, Kerns created the Links Springwater Habitat Restoration Group.

“Since then, He’s work worked with more than 5,000 volunteers, 3,000 of them students. He’s planted over 25,000 trees and shrubs and maintained hundreds of acres of the natural environment.”

Humble, as always, Kerns tells the audience, “It’s true, together, we’ve planted over 25,000 trees and shrubs and cleaned up quite a stretch of the Springwater Corridor through the Lents Neighborhood. I coordinated most of that‚ but I, obviously, couldn’t do the hard, physical work that has been going on for 12 years. Credit must also go to the thousands of volunteers from dozens of schools around Portland, mostly around the Lents area. I want to let Lents kids ‘own’ their neighborhood. Thank you all.”

Group Community Tree Award: Eastmoreland Neighborhood Association Tree Committee
You’re not required to love trees‚ especially the American elm‚ but it certainly helps to have affection for all things arboreal to be an Eastmoreland neighborhood homeowner.

Catherine Mushel, Chair of the Eastmoreland Trees committee; Dan Dettmer volunteer and creator of the Eastmoreland Tree Walk shirt, neighborhood association president Gretchen Sperling and Eastmoreland tree liaison Karen Williams show off their engraved Community Trees Award.

Naito next recognizes the dedicated volunteers who organize and work with the Eastmoreland Neighborhood Association (ENA) Tree Committee for their efforts.

“People say that Eastmoreland is a neighborhood that is defined by its trees,” Mushel told the gathering of 200 celebrants. “There is a long list of people who deserve thanks, including Don and Darlene Carlson, who started our committees. Our Eastmoreland neighbors, working with countless groups, like the Boy Scouts, have donated time and materials. They’ve helped us serve and protect our trees.”

Mushel recognized Friends of Trees, Save Our Elms, and the City of Portland Urban Foresters, volunteers Nancy Hutchins and Tom Brown, and the thousands of volunteer hours worked by neighbors and tree-lovers.

“For those who walk in the shade of our trees during the summer,” Mushel concluded, “and wonder at the size of our Elms in winter, we share your wonder, and we enjoy the shade of our trees. We appreciate your help. For all our volunteers, The Bill Naito Award is your award, also.”

Resources:

Learn more about Friends of Trees — “We’re always looking for volunteers and places to plant trees.” at www.friendsoftrees.org.
Interested in the National Arbor Day organization? See www.arborday.org.
Come enjoy their trees, or learn more about the Eastmoreland Neighborhood Association at www.eastmoreland.org.

Homeowners flock to Eastmoreland Remodeling Faire

Why pay to visit the Convention Center or Expo, when you can meet contractors right in your own neighborhood? Looks like the Eastmoreland Neighborhood Association is on to something‚

Nearly 300 Eastmoreland neighbors came to see the exhibits and talk with the vendors at this Faire.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
While it seemed like a good idea, board members of the Eastmoreland Neighborhood Association (ENA) wondered if anyone would actually come‚ on a weeknight‚ to their first Remodeling Faire.

The organizers looked delighted on March 8, when a steady stream of homeowners poured into, and circulated around, the exhibits set up at the Duniway School cafeteria.

Steve and Mary Baker, organizers of the Remodeling Faire, say it was a success.

“A lot of remodeling and restoration goes on in Eastmoreland,” said Steve Baker, ENA, board member and webmaster. “We thought it would be good to bring the contractors here to meet with homeowners.”

Baker credited fellow board member, Bert Sperling, with hatching the concept a few years ago.

“In addition to providing a good event for the neighbors,” Baker added, “this event is helping us raise money for street trees, as well as our neighborhood garden, which needs a lot of maintenance.”

Steven Klingerman with Sovereign Construction explains his company’s services to neighbor Rosalind Schreiber.

Homeowners and contractors pleased
Taking a break from looking at exhibitors, Eastmoreland neighbor Rosalind Schreiber told us, “We did a major remodel about four years ago, but we’re looking at other projects. This is great. Having everybody in one place is convenient, but isn’t overwhelming, like the Remodeling Show.”

Most important to her, Schreiber commented, was that all of the exhibitors at the event have done work in Eastmoreland.

“This event helps us meet people who might use our work,” is how Steven Klingerman with Sovereign Construction felt about it. “Even more, it gives us the chance to meet, face-to-face, to answer questions and learn about homeowners’ needs.”

Jane Morrison, Architectural Heritage Center.

Old and new, and ice cream too
For those who needed a quick pick-me-up at the four-hour, evening event ‚Äì or wanted to appease antsy kids‚ Woodstock’s Island Creamery was on hand, providing coffee, soft drinks, ice cream, and cookies.

“This is the place to be!” exclaimed Jane Morrison, with the Architectural Heritage Center. “We have been around for a number of years helping people who like old buildings. We have classes and exhibits about old buildings. Being here with businesses in who restore and repair older buildings is a good match for us.”

What is the ENA up to next? Find out by checking their website at www.eastmoreland.org.

Homeowners flock to Eastmoreland Remodeling Faire

Why pay to visit the Convention Center or Expo, when you can meet contractors right in your own neighborhood? Looks like the Eastmoreland Neighborhood Association is on to something‚

Nearly 300 Eastmoreland neighbors came to see the exhibits and talk with the vendors at this Faire.

The organizers looked delighted on March 8, when a steady stream of homeowners poured into, and circulated around, the exhibits set up at the Duniway School cafeteria.

Steve and Mary Baker, organizers of the Remodeling Faire, say it was a success.

Baker credited fellow board member, Bert Sperling, with hatching the concept a few years ago.

Steven Klingerman with Sovereign Construction explains his company’s services to neighbor Rosalind Schreiber.

Most important to her, Schreiber commented, was that all of the exhibitors at the event have done work in Eastmoreland.

Jane Morrison, Architectural Heritage Center.

What is the ENA up to next? Find out by checking their website at www.eastmoreland.org.

Homemade stories, told in shadow and light at Sellwood Library

One look at the young lady’s face, and you’ll see why we’re bringing you this story. Take a peek! And, this great workshop comes to Midland Library on March 27 (see how to register)‚

Using her hand-made shadow puppet, Audrey tells a story to her father, Shawn Smallman, and class teacher Kathy Karbo, at the Sellwood Branch Library.

Story and photo by David F. Ashton
As part of the Multnomah County Library’s “Every Family Reads” program, a most unique workshop took place on March 10 at the Sellwood Branch Library.

“Today’s featured book,” says instructor Kathy Karbo, “is ‘The End of the Beginning’. We’re making shadow puppets, and telling stories with them.”

This kind of play, Karbo explains, helps youngsters understand the basics of storytelling. “Theater starts with light and shadow. Shadow puppets also help children realize they can create their own stories without elaborate tools or props.”

Cultures all over the world use puppets for storytelling and for children’s theater, Karbo says. “And, children get to learn shapes and patterns. It teaches them skills in learning to use tools to make things. They get to use their bodies; it shows them that storytelling and acting doesn’t only happen from the neck up.”

Comes to outer East Portland March 27
You and your kids can participate in the Shadow Puppet Workshop! You’ll explore light, shadow and movement with artist Kathy Karbo as she shows you how to make your own shadow puppet.

Registration is required; register online, in the library or by calling (503) 988-5234. The workshop runs from 6:30-8 p.m.

The place: your Midland Library, 805 S.E. 122nd Ave.; call (503) 988-5392 for more information.

Lents open house highlights Johnson Creek changes

Neighbors confess they feel a mixture of relief and concern about the changes being charted for wetlands surrounding the creek ‚Ä¶

Lents neighbor Chris Bodine is about ready to mark the location of his property with a push pin, as he talks with Marie Johnson, BES, Program Coordinator Johnson Creek Watershed program

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Most of the people coming to the Johnson Creek Wetlands open house at Lent Elementary School a few weeks ago were neighbors whose property abuts the proposed work sites.

East Lents Project
“We’re here to let folks know about the East Lents Project,” says Marie Johnson, Portland Bureau of Environmental Services, Program Coordinator Johnson Creek Watershed program. “This project will be adding flood storage and making habitat improvement south of Foster Road, between what was known as ‘Freeway Land’ property and the Brookside property that BES renovated several years ago.”

The project, Johnson tells us, will make Lents a better place to live and work. “For many years, flooding has been a problem in Lents. The East Lents project will be adding flood storage near SE Foster Road.”

A FEMA grant for $2.7 Million will fund the first phase of the project, Johnson says; and BES is kicking in almost another $1 Million to make that happen. This project is currently in its design phase.

“In addition to providing flood storage,” adds Johnson, “it will be a nicer place for the community. Having some of the flooding issues addressed makes it easier for businesses to invest in the community.”

Lents neighbor Chris Bodine tells us he came to the open house to find out what is happening to the property adjacent to his.

“I’ve been watching them buy up houses around the area and remove some of them. It is all getting overgrown with blackberries. With a lot of homeless and transient coming in and camping in the area, I’d like to see it cleaned up,” says Bodine.

Lents resident Chuck Olney talks with Jeremy Weber, Project Manager, Army Corps of Engineers, about the Johnson Creek Springwater Project, as does neighbor Tom Larson.

Army Corps’ Springwater Project
We also learn the Army Corps of Engineers is working on a project to improve the habitat all along the Springwater Corridor, between Begger’s Tick Marsh and Banger Park.

“It’s important, because it will improve habitat for wildlife,” is how Jeremy Weber, Project Manager for the Army Corps of Engineers, Johnson Creek Springwater Project, put it to us.

Weber adds, “It will give neighbors access off the Springwater Trail. It will open up a lot of things to see; it will be educational for the kids. About a third of what we do these days is environmental work. This is under our Section 206 Authority, which is aquatic ecosystem restoration.

The project that runs from SE 111th to 121st Avenue along the Springwater Trail Corridor in Lents is a shared effort between the federal government and the City of Portland’s BES.

“Currently we’re working on the feasibility study to be completed this year,” says Weber. “Construction will begin when we get federal funding.”

The object of this project is to allow more water to flow into the wetland property. “There was a lot of fill in this area,” explains Weber. “We’ll be removing a lot of that. Also, look for improvements to the area like more interpretative signage, and a parking lot to access the Springwater Trail.”

Privacy concerns
Neighbor Tom Larson says his concerns are security and loss of privacy.

“Also, I want to know when it will start. My property is adjacent to this project. I know the area on one side and behind me was designated wetland owned by City of Portland; so no one can build there.

“It will be a great project as long as they take seriously privacy and security issues ‚Äì I don’t want people who are wandering through the area to wander into my yard.”