Although it lost county funding years ago, see how the Portland Metro Performing Arts Center keeps on helping youngsters learn a love of theater and dance …
Some of the young dancers getting ready to perform Glazunov’s “Four Seasons” before family and friends.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Looking rather like a warehouse, the building housing Portland Metro Performing Arts Center is, to say the least, unpretentious. But, within those walls, many a child has turned into a seasoned performance artist.
“We’re kicking off our new season,” Executive Director Nancy Yeamans tells us on September 9. “We’ve invited dancers here from all over Portland. These kids are great. They’ve learned the choreography for “Four Seasons” in an hour! Earlier today, we had the preschoolers participating in an art workshop.”
Center director Nancy Yeamans helping a young performer get ready for the performance.
Yeamans says Metro Performing Arts is important because it provides a teaching center for dance, theater and art instruction and performance opportunities. “There is no place like this on the east side. And, we’re here in the Gateway district, close to the freeways and bus lines, so we’re very accessible.”
A little extra practice always helps!
Specifically, Yeamans tells us, PMPA offers dance, music, theatre and visual arts classes, camps, workshops and performances, for kids from 6 to 14 years of age and all skill or experience levels. “New classes are starting, and registration stays open, on a space available basis.”
The PMPA studios are at 9933 SE Pine St. in the Gateway District, near Mall 205, a couple blocks north of Stark/Washington Streets.
To find out more about us visit their website at www.PDXMetroArts.org.
© 2006 David F. Ashton ~ East PDX News
Why on earth would government officials allow such a thing? Read on, and discover a special program helps keep kids – and families – safe from toxic materials …
1 This school was a hazardous waste collection site. Read on, and learn why bringing hazardous chemicals to school – on special occasions – can be a GOOD thing …
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
It may seem crazy to encourage people to bring their toxic household chemicals and leftover paint to a school ‚Äì but that’s exactly what they did on August 25.
On that afternoon, Theresa Fielch drove to Alice Ott Middle School, just of SE 122nd Ave. in Powellhurst-Gilbert, with her car loaded with nasty stuff. “It is important to me that we don’t have this toxic waste around our house! And, I sure don’t want to dispose of it by dumping it where it shouldn’t go.”
No, Fielch wasn’t putting kids in danger by taking her toxic materials to a grade school. She was participating in a “Hazardous Waste Round-up” held by METRO.
Debbie Humphrey, Hazardous Waste Specialist with METRO, helps Teresa Fielsch a neighbor from Parkrose unload unused paint and other household chemicals, with the help of METRO worker Margaret Slate.
Nasty gunk round-up
Folks who came by the school were directed to drive into a tented area, the ground under which was completely covered with thick plastic.
“We’re collecting household hazardous waste from people in outer East Portland today,” explained Debbie Humphrey, Hazardous Waste Specialist with METRO.
“This is important because it reduces the stockpiles of products and chemicals, leftover paint, and other hazardous materials from people’s houses. It makes homes safer for both people and pets.”
Sometimes–Humphrey told us–people don’t know what to do with wastes that could hurt them. “We’re providing a simple, free method to dispose of them. Dumping them in the backyard or putting it in the trash is the worst thing anyone could do for the environment.”
There is no charge to homeowners for this service, Humphrey explained. Small businesses can also participate, she said, for a small fee.
Painting the town
“We do great things with the latex paint we collect. At our facility on Swan Island, we recycle used paint into good quality, inexpensive paint,” Humphrey told us. “The money we make from selling paint helps us fund programs like these.”
METRO worker Laura Brokaw is suited up to handle highly hazardous and toxic chemicals and wastes dropped off at the round-up events.
Last chance for East County
If you missed this event, it isn’t too late to rid your home or small business of hazardous materials. Check into one of these two remaining events:
Parkrose
Oct. 6 – 7
K-Mart store parking lot
at 12350 NE Sandy Blvd.
Rockwood/Gresham
Oct. 27 – 28
Rockwood United Methodist Church at
17805 SE Stark St.
For more information, call Metro Recycling Information at (503) 234-3000 between 8:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday; or see www.metro-region.org .
© 2006 David F. Ashton ~ East PDX News
If you haven’t been in to visit, come to their open house and see why people come to Midland Library for much more than simply to read books ‚Ķ
One of the most recognizable landmarks along 122nd Avenue is Midland Library’s clock tower.
Story and photo by David F. Ashton
Come to this “birthday party” and you get the gifts! All the folks at Midland Library hope you’ll drop by to celebrate their tenth year of operation in their “new” building.
Midland’s director, Carolyn Schell, told us that the original library serving outer East Portland was first opened in 1958. “It was three times smaller than this facility,” she said. “In fact, this new building occupies the space once taken up by the old building plus the parking lot.”
At 24,000 square feet, Midland Library is the largest branch of the Multnomah County Library. Customers enjoy its landmark clock tower, and its spacious interior with views of Midland Park.
Midland Library is the third busiest in Multnomah County library system, Schell continued. “We’re celebrating the diversity of the people we serve here through a variety of programs. The library provides free information to everyone in the area. One can get information on all kinds of information, on all kinds of topics. Midland is also a teaching center, including computer classes for adults.”
Come party on September 16
The library’s open house celebrating ten years of service runs from 1 – 5 p.m. on Sept. 16.
A colorful Chinese Lion Dance kicks off the event, followed by Library Director Molly Raphael’s welcome, and a cake-cutting ceremony.
Stay and see multi-cultural performances — including a Vietnamese Dance Team, Ballet Popotle performing Mexican folk dancing, and Americanistan presenting music from the Middle East.
WANT MORE? Read on! There will be crafts during the day, and participants can build their own birdhouse with the Jane’s Park Committee from 1-3 p.m. Refreshments and other activities will also be provided throughout the celebration.
The Midland Library is located at 805 SE 122nd Ave., a block south of SE Stark Street. Midland Park is located behind the library’s parking lot ‚Äì be sure to see the Jane’s Park Group there while you visit. For more information, call the library at (503) 988-5392 or visit the library’s website at www.multcolib.org.
We’ll see you then!
© 2006 David F. Ashton ~ East PDX News
See why the new Lents International Farmer’s Market is drawing shoppers to SE 92nd Ave. and Foster Rd. on the last Sunday of each month …
Don Lief came down from Mt. Tabor to buy fresh produce. He met market manager Hilary DuBose and Tenino Farms’ Meagan Freed.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
In past years, the Lents Farmer’s Market provided slim pickings. Typically, it consisted of one or two small stands, if any‚ on the corner of SE 92nd and Foster Road.
This year, “less is more”: Instead of operating every weekend, the market is held only on the last Sunday of the month. But, more than a dozen vendors are now on hand, selling everything from vegetables to fresh-baked bread.
New name, new vitality
“We’ve renamed it the ‘Lents International Farmer’s Market’,” project manager Hilary DuBose told us when we visited. “We’re doing this as a pilot project this year. We’ll see what works and what customers like. Then, we’ll put full energy into perhaps a larger project next season.”
As many as 18 vendors display their goods at the outdoor market. “We have a great variety of produce, cut flowers, African arts, Hispanic food, fresh eggs, potted plants, and a craft baker,” DuBose said.
This new version of the Lents Farmer’s Market was created in response to a neighborhood survey conducted last year. “The research showed that Lents residents have the least access to quality food sources,” DuBose continued. “We’re providing a new resource for healthy, affordable eating.”
Lissa and Russell Pfandler of Russell’s Bread bring fresh baked goods from their own wood-fired European-styled hearth oven located in Vancouver, WA. This home-based business offered their goods exclusively at the Hollywood Market until coming to Lents this season.
“By stressing the ‘international’ aspects of the market, we’re trying to bring people together here in Lents,” commented Judy Welch, past chair, Lents Neighborhood Association, as she helped out at the market. “Having a place the community can come together to buy home-grown foods and home-made crafts is terrific. People are coming from all over to visit the market‚ it isn’t just a market, it’s a great event.”
Jeff Rose, a neighborhood association board member and market volunteer told us, “I just bought a house here in Lents Town Center. I’m doing everything I can to promote good things like this. I’d like to see Lents regain the vitality it had in the past. We need neighbors to get back together and interact with one another. I see this as a positive step.”
Last market date: September 24
Plan to spend some time at the Lents International Farmer’s Market on Sunday, September 24. It’s open from 9:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m.
Is it truly International? Yes: Hmong, Hispanic, Turkish, and Mien farmers are represented. You’ll also enjoy live music, prepared food, cooking demonstrations, and community-information booths.
The market is located next to Crossroads Plaza on SE 92nd Ave. at Foster Rd. There’s plenty of street parking, and additional free parking is provided by the Lents Masonic Lodge at 5811 SE 92nd Ave. WIC and senior coupons are welcome.
For more information, contact at http://lentsfarmersmarket@gmail.com.
© 2006 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News ™
Spend a day paddling on the “Columbia Sewer?” Read this article and see how we got a close-up look (and smell) of how Slough clean-up efforts have paid off ‚Ķ
Lynn Youngbarr, interim executive director of the Columbia Slough Watershed Council, prodded us to take a “closer look” by going for a paddle on this unique inland waterway.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
For decades, the Columbia Slough was the repository of raw sewage, rainwater runoff, and liquid industrial waste.
Thus, in years past, we’d covered the “Columbia Slough Regatta” from a distance‚Ķon land.
This year was different. At the July 30 event, interim executive director of the Columbia Slough Watershed Council (CSWC) Lynn Youngbarr suggests we take a paddle to get “closer” to the story.
“We’re celebrating this fabulous resource for residents of Portland and the whole region,” Youngbarr began, coaxing us into going for a canoe ride. “This is one of the most diverse natural areas in the whole state. The slough’s ecosystem ‚Äì here along the Columbia River from the Sandy River to the Willamette ‚Äì has both heavy industry and residential areas. Since we’ve taken steps to clean the Slough up, there is also an abundance of wildlife here.”
These are a few of the 500 adults and kids getting ready to paddle the Slough in nearly 250 non-motorized watercraft during the Regatta.
Youngbarr says the purpose of the Regatta was to raise awareness of the Slough. “I was born and raised here. For all the times I’d driven on Sandy and Airport Way, it never occurred to me to see what was under the overpasses. When I started working with the Council, I learned what a fabulous resource this is to the region. I think people come here to explore this interesting natural setting, within the city of Portland.”
Some of the Columbia Slough is naturally-occurring. Louis and Clark reported camping along the slough. But, they couldn’t stay more than a night before moving inland. They reported that the din of the birds and animals kept them awake!
For decades, Youngbarr tells us, it has been greatly impacted by human endeavor. The Slough is important because it prevents the low-lying areas along the Columbia from flooding. “It is now a carefully managed waterway.”
Long-time nature advocate, and Wilkes Community Group resident, Alice Blatt shows paddlers where to go. If you’ve ever seen “Alice Springs” on the map ‚Äì yup, it’s named after her!
We edge closer to the dock, located in the “Big Four Corners” site, said to be the fourth largest natural area in Portland. Individuals in kayaks, and families in canoes, look like they’re having fun. At the dock, we’re introduced to Ry Thompson, Portland Bureau of Environmental Services, Slough Group. He’s offered to be our guide.
Ry Thompson, was our intrepid guide as we paddled through channels making up the northern part of the Slough.
Handing me a flotation device to strap on, Thompson says, “This is truly a special place. It’s a hidden gem in the city of Portland. It is accessible to families ‚Äì people of all ages. And, this is a great place to experience nature in one’s own back yard.”
We climb into a canoe and push off from the dock. Within moments, we feel safe and confident, even with our camera. Our guide was doing the paddling, and we were snapping photos.
Even though there were dozens of craft on the Slough, it didn’t seem crowded as we explored this inland waterway.
Feeling more confident, we pick up the second paddle and start rowing. Guide Thompson doesn’t mind we’re helping out.
As our strokes synchronize, we pick up speed. “At this rate, we’ll be able to see quite a bit,” he says.
Using a parasol as a sail, Cherry Ann and Wayne Low use wind power for part of their journey on the Columbia Slough.
“The Slough has a long history of industry and farming,” says Thompson. “Things used to be pretty bad, but things have turned around dramatically. It is much cleaner.”
We had expected to have our olfactory senses assaulted with nasty odors. However, there is no bad smell, even though we are cruising inches above the water.
The family Hume–Rebecca, Sarah, Linda and Richmond–explore a side channel of the Columbia Slough during the Regatta.
Our guide continues, “We’ve planted over a million trees and shrubs to keep the water cool. And, as we continue to reduce pollutants that come into the Slough, the water quality gets better and better.” However, he advises against swimming in the water just yet.
After what seems like only a few moments, we realized we’ve been out nearly a half-hour. “Time to turn back,” Thompson advises. “But we have time to take a look at this side channel.” We both paddle, and slip swiftly along the waterway.
Rob Dolphin was first introduced to the Slough as part of his job. Now, he says he’s “fallen in love with it” as he paddles by us.
One of the many people we meet along the way is Rob Dolphin, an employee of the Owens Illinois Glass Company located on the Slough at Johnson Lake.
“Part of my work assignment,” Dolphin says, pulling up along side, “is to work with environmental issues having to do withour plant. But, I became fascinated with the Slough to the point where I love coming out here.”
CSWC board chair Chuck Harrison glides up, and talks with us about the Slough.
Soon, we’re able to hold another on-the-water interview. This time, it’s with Chuck Harrison, the chair of CSWC.
“I work for an employer that has properly along the Slough. They wanted to be aware of what was going on at the Council, and also, to be a good steward to the waterway. What started as a job function as grown into a love of the water.” After the third Regatta, Harrison tells us, “I decided to get my own kayak. Now, I come out often just to unwind. Isn’t it relaxing out here?”
The most important thing for people to know, Harrison says, is that “it’s not as bad as people remember it being. As you can see, it’s beautiful here. You’d never know you are in the city of Portland, except for the planes flying overhead.”
Too soon, it was time to return to the dock, as this couple was doing, so others could enjoy their own canoe ride in the Columbia Slough.
Looking at the time, we notice we are a little overdue getting the canoe back to the dock, so others can enjoy the Regatta. As we both paddle, our craft slips swiftly through the water; we soon glide up to the dock.
Want to explore the eastern of the Columbia Slough for yourself? The canoe launch we used is located at 16550 NE Airport Way, but there are others available.
For more information, go online to www.portlandonline.com/bes/index.cfm?c=dccac.
And, to learn more about the CSWC, see www.columbiaslough.org.
Here’s a secret: If you don’t own a canoe, you can borrow one from the Council! It’s another good reason to check out the CSWC, and check into your Columbia Slough.
© 2006 David F. Ashton ~ East PDX News
Spend a day paddling on the “Columbia Sewer?” Read this article and see how we got a close-up look (and smell) of how Slough clean-up efforts have paid off ‚Ķ
Lynn Youngbarr, interim executive director of the Columbia Slough Watershed Council, prodded us to take a “closer look” by going for a paddle on this unique inland waterway.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
For decades, the Columbia Slough was the repository of raw sewage, rainwater runoff, and liquid industrial waste.
Thus, in years past, we’d covered the “Columbia Slough Regatta” from a distance‚Ķon land.
This year was different. At the July 30 event, interim executive director of the Columbia Slough Watershed Council (CSWC) Lynn Youngbarr suggests we take a paddle to get “closer” to the story.
“We’re celebrating this fabulous resource for residents of Portland and the whole region,” Youngbarr began, coaxing us into going for a canoe ride. “This is one of the most diverse natural areas in the whole state. The slough’s ecosystem ‚Äì here along the Columbia River from the Sandy River to the Willamette ‚Äì has both heavy industry and residential areas. Since we’ve taken steps to clean the Slough up, there is also an abundance of wildlife here.”
These are a few of the 500 adults and kids getting ready to paddle the Slough in nearly 250 non-motorized watercraft during the Regatta.
Youngbarr says the purpose of the Regatta was to raise awareness of the Slough. “I was born and raised here. For all the times I’d driven on Sandy and Airport Way, it never occurred to me to see what was under the overpasses. When I started working with the Council, I learned what a fabulous resource this is to the region. I think people come here to explore this interesting natural setting, within the city of Portland.”
Some of the Columbia Slough is naturally-occurring. Louis and Clark reported camping along the slough. But, they couldn’t stay more than a night before moving inland. They reported that the din of the birds and animals kept them awake!
For decades, Youngbarr tells us, it has been greatly impacted by human endeavor. The Slough is important because it prevents the low-lying areas along the Columbia from flooding. “It is now a carefully managed waterway.”
Long-time nature advocate, and Wilkes Community Group resident, Alice Blatt shows paddlers where to go. If you’ve ever seen “Alice Springs” on the map ‚Äì yup, it’s named after her!
We edge closer to the dock, located in the “Big Four Corners” site, said to be the fourth largest natural area in Portland. Individuals in kayaks, and families in canoes, look like they’re having fun. At the dock, we’re introduced to Ry Thompson, Portland Bureau of Environmental Services, Slough Group. He’s offered to be our guide.
Ry Thompson, was our intrepid guide as we paddled through channels making up the northern part of the Slough.
Handing me a flotation device to strap on, Thompson says, “This is truly a special place. It’s a hidden gem in the city of Portland. It is accessible to families ‚Äì people of all ages. And, this is a great place to experience nature in one’s own back yard.”
We climb into a canoe and push off from the dock. Within moments, we feel safe and confident, even with our camera. Our guide was doing the paddling, and we were snapping photos.
Even though there were dozens of craft on the Slough, it didn’t seem crowded as we explored this inland waterway.
Feeling more confident, we pick up the second paddle and start rowing. Guide Thompson doesn’t mind we’re helping out.
As our strokes synchronize, we pick up speed. “At this rate, we’ll be able to see quite a bit,” he says.
Using a parasol as a sail, Cherry Ann and Wayne Low use wind power for part of their journey on the Columbia Slough.
“The Slough has a long history of industry and farming,” says Thompson. “Things used to be pretty bad, but things have turned around dramatically. It is much cleaner.”
We had expected to have our olfactory senses assaulted with nasty odors. However, there is no bad smell, even though we are cruising inches above the water.
The family Hume–Rebecca, Sarah, Linda and Richmond–explore a side channel of the Columbia Slough during the Regatta.
Our guide continues, “We’ve planted over a million trees and shrubs to keep the water cool. And, as we continue to reduce pollutants that come into the Slough, the water quality gets better and better.” However, he advises against swimming in the water just yet.
After what seems like only a few moments, we realized we’ve been out nearly a half-hour. “Time to turn back,” Thompson advises. “But we have time to take a look at this side channel.” We both paddle, and slip swiftly along the waterway.
Rob Dolphin was first introduced to the Slough as part of his job. Now, he says he’s “fallen in love with it” as he paddles by us.
One of the many people we meet along the way is Rob Dolphin, an employee of the Owens Illinois Glass Company located on the Slough at Johnson Lake.
“Part of my work assignment,” Dolphin says, pulling up along side, “is to work with environmental issues having to do withour plant. But, I became fascinated with the Slough to the point where I love coming out here.”
CSWC board chair Chuck Harrison glides up, and talks with us about the Slough.
Soon, we’re able to hold another on-the-water interview. This time, it’s with Chuck Harrison, the chair of CSWC.
“I work for an employer that has properly along the Slough. They wanted to be aware of what was going on at the Council, and also, to be a good steward to the waterway. What started as a job function as grown into a love of the water.” After the third Regatta, Harrison tells us, “I decided to get my own kayak. Now, I come out often just to unwind. Isn’t it relaxing out here?”
The most important thing for people to know, Harrison says, is that “it’s not as bad as people remember it being. As you can see, it’s beautiful here. You’d never know you are in the city of Portland, except for the planes flying overhead.”
Too soon, it was time to return to the dock, as this couple was doing, so others could enjoy their own canoe ride in the Columbia Slough.
Looking at the time, we notice we are a little overdue getting the canoe back to the dock, so others can enjoy the Regatta. As we both paddle, our craft slips swiftly through the water; we soon glide up to the dock.
Want to explore the eastern of the Columbia Slough for yourself? The canoe launch we used is located at 16550 NE Airport Way, but there are others available.
For more information, go online to www.portlandonline.com/bes/index.cfm?c=dccac.
And, to learn more about the CSWC, see www.columbiaslough.org.
Here’s a secret: If you don’t own a canoe, you can borrow one from the Council! It’s another good reason to check out the CSWC, and check into your Columbia Slough.
© 2006 David F. Ashton ~ East PDX News
More than just books, your Midland Library hosts many involving events every month; see why this one is just plain cute …
Midland Children’s Librarian Barbara Gorter reads a story to the lively “Sock Hop” group. A couple of the little tykes wandered up to her as Gorter read, and acted out the stories ‚Äì to the distress of their parents! “It’s OK,” Gorter said with a knowing smile to the moms and dads. “As long as they’re not hurting themselves or others, this behavior is age-appropriate.”
Story and photo by David F. Ashton
What, exactly, is a “Toddler Sock Hop”, you might ask?
It’s a fun, interactive learning session, held occasionally at Midland Library. “It is an hour of activities for our youngest patrons,” replied Children’s Librarian Barbara Gorter, “with dancing, reading stories, singing, and doing crafts.”
Another youth librarian, Sue Ciesielski, was helping Gorter during the session. “Look! We have a rousing good time. The idea is help increase literacy. Our learning activities tie in with the songs and rhymes. We make reading fun. And, this class provides the opportunity for toddlers and parents to get together and socialize.”
What are you missing out on at the library? Check out our “Community Calendar” and join in the fun!
© 2006 David F. Ashton ~ East PDX News
See how a group of dedicated neighbors worked with local, regional and national public safety organizations to turn a run-down SE Portland eyesore into a community center …
It wasn’t just coffee and groceries sold here ‚Äì police say it was a front for illegal drugs.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Neighbors thought it was odd ‚Äì the Wake Up drive-through coffee shop at 5633 SE Division St. didn’t seem to serve coffee; the deli didn’t stock much food.
This building isn’t in a seedy part of town. It stands directly across the street from the Atkinson School.
“There was no regular business here,” neighborhood leader Paul Leistner told us, “so neighbors knew there was something shady going on. Eventually police and drug enforcement officers started surveillance, sometimes using the grade school’s teacher’s lounge.”
The police and sheriff’s office did take notice when they observed the owners of the shop selling large amounts of pseudoephedrine, a key ingredient of methamphetamine.
Eventually, the shop was raided and closed down, and the property was seized by the US Federal Marshall’s office.
Neighbors conceive take-over plan
In November of 2004, neighbors hatched an idea to turn this property into a community center. That dream came true when the building, renamed Atkinson/Tabor Community Commons, was transferred to the control of Southeast Uplift, the neighborhood coalition for the area on June 6.
Digging weeds to beautify the outside of the former Wake Up Deli is Laurie Schaefer.
“Southeast Uplift is administering this building on behalf on Mt. Tabor Neighborhood Association, South Tabor Neighborhood Association, and Atkinson Elementary PTA,” Leistner said, at a clean-up work-party held at the building on July 8.
Respected neighborhood activist Paul Leistner helped clean up the former Wake Up Deli with neighbor John Laursen and Justin Leonard, president of Mt Tabor Neighborhood Association.
Pausing a moment from his chore of pulling out a broken sheet glass window, Justin Leonard, newly-elected president of Mt Tabor Neighborhood Association, he said that Leistner is great inspiration. “I’m here to support this effort. I think it is unprecedented how our community has come together behind this project. Collectively, we presented the plan for turning this former drug property into a community center to local, state and federal governmental agencies. With their support, we’ve done it. It’s going to be a community center; a community hub.”
Federal ‘Drug Czar’ gets first-hand look
Cece Hughley Noel, Executive Director, SE Uplift, Katherine Anderson, Crime Prevention Coordinator tell the story of Wake Up Deli to visiting dignitary, John Walters, Director, National Drug Control Policy, along with Portland Police SE Precinct Commander Derrick Foxworth, (standing) Brian Santo, outgoing president of the Atkinson PTA and Portland City Commissioner Sam Adams.
At their July 20 open house, the old building had been cleaned out, painted and made ready to receive its first guests. With the trash removed, the building seems surprisingly roomy; and, with the walls painted, it is bright and cheery.
Representatives from the community, city, and law enforcement gathered for a community conversation led by Southeast Uplift executive director Cece Hughley Noel, as they welcomed John P. Walters, Director, National Drug Control Policy.
We asked Walters why he’d traveled from Washington D.C. to tour a little building in southeast Portland.
He replied, “This is an important example of what a community, committed to a goal, can do. I’m here to learn lessons of what you think worked well. We’d like to make this project an example of how a former neighborhood problem can be turned into a potential asset. We’ll show what you have done to others, who will benefit by replicating your efforts in a way unique to their community.”
Paul Leistner recounted problems at the site dating back to the 1980s — including drug- dealing, laundering food stamps, incidents of violence, and selling cigarettes to minors. “The most recent owner tried to get a liquor license so he could put in video poker machines, and perhaps nude dancers. When that didn’t work out, he realized he could get pseudoephedrine from Canada, and resell it locally. It was his undoing.”
Neighbors told Walters how happy they were that they could make this former eyesore and crime den into a place that will both help the community and improve the quality of life in the neighborhood.
‘Angel’ helps volunteers raise $45,000
These neighbors didn’t simply get the keys handed to them. Even with the back taxes on the property forgiven, they still needed to raise $45,000 to refund the U.S. Marshall’s costs, to provide insurance, to pay utilities, and to cover other expenses. Portland’s Bureau of Environmental Services is working with the group to reduce potential problems created by five large buried tanks that remain on the site from the time the place was a gas station.
Leistner told us Pearl Bakery, New Seasons Market, and Mt. Tabor Realty donated substantially to the project, as did neighbors — but that only raised half of funds required. “Then, Brad Mersereau wrote a check for $24,000 to make up difference.”
At the community meeting, Mersereau told the Walters, “I considered this an opportunity to honor the memory of my sister, who died of alcohol. For the past six years, I’ve been doing a number of matching opportunities that raise awareness of drug and alcohol prevention, sobriety, and resources. We can do a lot to make an impact against something that is pernicious in society: Drugs and alcohol.”
Local leaders laud the community effort
“The federal government did something right here!” exclaimed Multnomah County Sheriff Bernie Giusto. “This is a reinvestment that will help the community for years to come.”
Brian Santo, outgoing president of Atkinson’s PTA said, “With the school right across the street, it’s great to have this place for kids.”
Portland’s new Southeast Precinct Commander Derrick Foxworth said, “This is a good example of how community policing works. Working together, community members, businesses and organizations are reducing crime and fear of crime and improving livability.”
“This is the fruition of a public/private partnership,” added Portland City Commissioner Sam Adams. “Together, they not only shut down a meth distribution and stolen property center ‚Äì but also provided for a great community use. I’m really happy for the successful outcome of this project that will help these great Inner Southeast Portland neighborhoods.”
Walters’ commendation
As the community discussion wrapped up, Walters finished by telling the group, “This is an example of how citizens can turn a threat it into an asset. In reality, it isn’t the government that makes us safer in our communities ‚Äì it is each of you here today.”
How you can help
There is still work to be done to finish this new community center. To learn how you can help, contact SE Uplift at (503) 232-0010 or contact Paul Lesitner at paulamy@teleport.com.
© 2006 David F. Ashton ~ East PDX News
See why, even in the sweltering early-summer heat, 180 people walked and jogged on hot asphalt to raise money for a worthy scholarship program …
Sandi Dykes (right side of track) cheers on some of the many participants at the Annual Adventist Medical Center Heart and Lung Walk on June 25.
Story and photo by David F. Ashton
At 11 am on June 25, it was already warm. No ‚Äì it was hot ‚Äì in the upper 80s. Yet, there they were, “warming up” and walking the black tar track at Floyd Light Middle school.
Why?
“We’re having a Heart Lung Walk to celebrate our cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation patients,” explained spokesperson Sandi Dykes. “The event also helps raise money for a scholarship fund.”
With the way insurance and Medicare reimbursement works, Dykes explained, some diagnoses, such as exercise classes for heart failure, surprisingly, aren’t covered. Nor are some of the pulmonary diagnoses.
“We never turn a patient away,” Dykes continue. “Adventist Medical Center has a wonderful mission. This helps heart or lung patients, who can’t otherwise afford it, pay their way to continue in exercise and educational programs. We hope to raise $16,000 from the event.”
Even though the temperature continued to quickly rise, their spirits stayed up. Even in the heat, it was clear these people wanted to participate and make a difference
You can help
Call (503) 251-6260 and make a donation – or learn more!
© 2006 David F. Ashton ~ East PDX News
And no, there isn’t a fine for not bringing them back. See how Multnomah County Animal Services folks are working to put the perfect purrrrr into loving arms ‚Ķ
Young JJ Jacobs is checking out the kitty held by MCAS volunteer Donna Hostler during an adopt-a-pet outreach program at Midland Library.
Story and photo by David F. Ashton
You don’t have to go all the way out the Multnomah County Animal Services (MCAS) to find the “right” dog or cat for your home. Now, MCAS has started an outreach program they call “Adopt-A-Pet” ‚Äì and they’re taking critters out to meet people.
In June, we caught up with MCAS coordinator Katie Hill at Midland Library, on SE 122nd Ave. south of Stark. “We have kittens, a cat and dogs for people to meet. We also talk about responsible pet ownership. We want the kids to learn to be responsible from a young age.”
Not just anyone can take home a dog or cat. “We want people who will be good owners. These animals all lost their home; we’re looking for people who want to integrate an companion animal in their home.”
Attracting the most attention were the kitties. Donna Hostler has volunteered as a “foster care mom” for sick kittens for over two years. She was showing several of her favorites to folks who came by. “I love the animals. It is a good feel situation when I do it. I work with many of the helpless kittens that are out there to bring them to back to good health.”
Hostler showed off a white, regular domestic shorthair kitten. “Isn’t he beautiful? Look at the little smidge of black on his head.”
See for yourself on July 15
Meet your new companion pet at Midway Library ‚Äì When the stresses of a world in turmoil or merely a bad day at the office threaten to overwhelm, help is just a cat-in-the-lap away. Feline therapy eases anxiety by lowering blood pressure and releasing “feel good” endorphins.
At this time of year when animal shelters are over-flowing with cats of all ages, there has never been a better time to adopt a feline therapist and let a cat heal your heart.
Meet and adopt MCAS Foster Cats/Kittens and dogs between 1-3 pm at Midland Library/Midland Park 805 SE 122nd Ave.
© 2006 David F. Ashton ~ East PDX News
Look at the folks having fun at this year’s Police Activities League Auction, as they raise fun as well as funds ‚Ķ
DJ Steve Andersen spun tunes while Patricia Peneyck, Debra Monk Terri Baker checked folks in to the “Blast from the Past” auction for PAL on May 13.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
We expect cops to bust the crooks, and hold criminals at bay. It’s their job.
But do you know that Portland Police Bureau officers volunteer their time, working with more than 3,500 youth each year, to help them stay on the straight-and-narrow?
If you haven’t heard about the Police Activities League (PAL) of Greater Portland, PAL’s development director, Megan Jolly, is happy to fill you in: “This is a crime- prevention program that hooks police officers up with youth through academics and supports. It gives the kids mentors, and positive after-school programs.”
While none of the cops get paid for this, it does cost money to house the program, provide transportation to and from events, and buy supplies for the PAL programs.
Bill Bitar, Frank Bitar & Associates, with wife and friends, checking to see how much his bids were raised.
Hippies invade the Sheraton Airport
“That’s why we hold the annual auction,” Jolly filled us in. “If you notice a distinct ‘hippie’ look around here, it’s because the theme of our 10th auction is ‘A Blast from the Past.'”
More than 285 people came to the Sheraton Airport to bid on a silent and live auction, enjoy a dinner – and, in the process, raise $125,000 for PAL.
“It is a great outreach for us,” Jolly said, asking that we mention that Safeway was a major sponsor this year. OK, we did!
You can help
Want to help? Contact www.palkids.org, or (503) 823-0250. “We’re always looking for good volunteers,” Jolly added.
© 2006 David F. Ashton ~ East PDX News
Read why hundreds of folks volunteer to restore Johnson Creek, and the surrounding watershed …
Welcoming members and guests to their first annual meeting is Michelle Bussard, Executive Director, Johnson Creek Watershed Council.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
The tables were set, displays erected, and the staff of the Johnson Creek Watershed Council welcomed members and guests to their luncheon at the Eastmoreland Golf Course clubhouse on May 18th.
“We are having our inaugural annual meeting,” Michelle Bussard, Executive Director, Johnson Creek Watershed Council told us. “It will be featuring the ‘State of the Watershed’ report. And, this event celebrates all of our stakeholders and communities throughout the watershed’s area.”
Specifically, Bussard told us, the report is like snapshots, depicting a decade of change along Johnson Creek. “More than 100 projects are up and going along the Creek. These include projects designed to help fish passage, to wetland, upland, and riparian restoration.”
The most important mission of the organization, Bussard went on, is to bring the Johnson Creek ‚Äì a stream that runs from Gresham to its confluence with the Willamette River near Milwaukie, back to the condition in which salmon and other native fish will thrive. “Moreover, when the fish thrive, people who live near Johnson Creek, or visit it, will be able to enjoy its beauty and health.”
Noah Jenkins, an AmeriCorps member assigned to the Council, demonstrating a “stream table” at the Johnson Creek Watershed Council meeting. “This provides a demonstration of how streams get created and meander over a period of time.”
The organization claims over 5,000 volunteers who have contributed countless hours of time. Other people have donated in-kind services, equipment and materials. “For example, Howard Dietrich and Nancy Bishop have provided our creekside office space for the past ten years. Our volunteers allow us to greatly leverage the funding we receive on a 1-to-5 basis.”
For more information, see their website at www.jcwc.org.
© 2006 David F. Ashton ~ East PDX News ~ Published May 29, 2006
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