Here’s where to go – either in outer East Portland, or inner SE Portland – to find the freshest produce, fruit and meats, and very nice people …
With samples in hand, market master Steve Voorhees welcomes outer East Portland shoppers to the Parkrose Farmers’ Market.
Story and Photos by David F. Ashton
Two great farmer’s markets – located on opposite ends of our coverage area – are up and running this season.
Parkrose Farmer’s Market
This market is on every Saturday, and market master Steve Voorhees told us, on their opening day, that they were looking forward to good markets this year. “We do run a long season, it’s a total of 27 weeks.”
Their farmers and growers come from as far away as Maryhill and Elgin, Washington, Voorhees told us. “We have a wide variety of produce – obviously, what’s in season – and beef and other meat products, and other great things.”
It’s important to have a market in Parkrose, he said, because it establishes a community meeting place. “Parkrose-area people disperse to other parts of town to do their shopping – especially for fresh foods. The money would leave the area; they’d go to other farmers markets both East and West. Those are great markets, but why spend money traveling?”
Joy Voorhees uses a new wireless debit and food stamp data machine to help make shopping easier at the Parkrose Farmer’s Market – with just a swipe of the card [inset], you can buy as many Market Tokens as you need.
Neighborhood grant helps market expand
Voorhees said they are grateful for an East Portland Neighborhood Organization grant that helped them start the market last year. “This year, a grant has helped us promote the market by sending out 10,000 flyers. Also, it helped us install a debit card system that also takes Oregon Trail Card Electronic Benefit Transfer [food stamps].
“Now, instead worrying about having enough cash, shoppers can swipe their card, and get $1 or $5 tokens to spend like cash at the market,” Voorhees noted. This really opens up the demographics of the market.”
Market shopper Mindy Durias select from the plants brought by Anita Tabayoyon, proprietor of AR Moss Floral Designs and Embellishments in Parkrose.
Special promotions in June, in Parkrose
There’s great free music every week, Voorhees said. On June 6, it’s “Will West and Friends”; and the “Good Old Days String Band” plays the following week. (See our Community Calendar for a complete listing each month.)
On June 13, the market welcomes the Lions Club’s FREE mobile Health Screening to the market; and on June 20 is the monthly Karaoke Contest.
The Parkrose Farmer’s Market is open from 8:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. at the Parkrose High School’s west parking lot on NE Shaver St, a block west of NE 122nd Avenue – across the street from Parkrose Middle School. For more information, CLICK HERE to see their website, or contact Voorhees at steve_voorhees@q.com
Moreland Farmer’s Market
The torrential downpour on opening day doesn’t stop Annie Gullion and Erik O’Banion from shopping at Creative Growers Organic Foods booth at the Moreland Farmer’s Market.
Inner SE Portland’s market, the Moreland Farmer’s Market, got off to a soggy start, when it opened for the season on Wednesday, May 13.
“It’s just the luck of the draw,” remarked Market Manager Laura Wendel. “We will have many beautiful days during this, our fourth season.”
Many of the market’s 38 regular vendors were on hand, selling fresh produce, cheese and dairy, poultry, meat, eggs, baked goods, nursery stock, planting starts, cut flowers, prepared food, and specialty items. EBT and debit cards are now accepted at the market.
“We can always use volunteers – especially big strong volunteers – to help open and close the market each Wednesday,” Wendel said.
The cool, damp weather on May 13th was just right for keeping these vegetables crisp and delicious.
The nonprofit Moreland Farmers Market is open every Wednesday afternoon from 3:30 until 7:30 p.m. on the Wilhelm’s Portland Memorial parking lot, SE Bybee Boulevard at SE 14th Avenue.
CLICK HERE to learn more by visiting their website, or call (503) 341-9350.
© 2009 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
Wondering what’s happening at Multnomah County these days? Outer East Portland’s relatively new Commissioner, Judy Shiprack, will bring you up to date, if you read this informative article …
Take a look at what you missed, if you didn’t get to their Annual Garden Sale or Children’s Nature Faire this year …
Hundreds of people shopped among thousands of plants at the annual Leach Garden Plant Sale at Floyd Light Middle School.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
For as long as most outer East Portland gardeners can remember, a highlight of their year is the Annual Plant Sale hosted by Leach Botanical Garden at Floyd Light Middle School.
“We have a number of our own plants and starts here from Leach Botanical Garden,” noted their Executive Director, Karen Young, during the April 18 event. “We actually grow the plants we sell here in the garden. We also have 20 other vendors participating – it’s a great turnout.”
Leach Botanical Garden’s Executive Director, Karen Young, and its official gardener, Scott Hoelscher, pause for a moment at their tables, during the sale.
Benjamin and Evelyn get a ride around the event, courtesy of their mom, Lana Mindra.
“This show is a great way for people to learn about all different kinds of plants,” said Young. “There are a wide variety of plants here, but this is a wonderful opportunity to help people learn about native Northwest plants. They require so much less time and cost with watering, fertilizers, and pesticides.”
In addition to decorative plants, backyard farmers were snapping up tomato and other plant starts. “We have an incredible amount of edibles for sale, including herbs,” observed Young. “There is a growing interest for people to learn to grow their own food, and using fresh natural herbs and vegetables.”
Reynolds Learning Academy teacher Meredith Griffith shows off tomato starts with student Devin McDaniel, a junior at the academy.
Many gardeners snapped up tomato starts being sold by a class at Reynolds Learning Academy. Their sponsor and teacher, Meredith Griffith, told us, “We’re doing a little fundraiser for classroom field trips. At the same time, our students are gaining customer-service skills practice. We’re selling a couple varieties of tomato plants that we started and grew in the classroom.”
If you missed it – be sure to check our Community Calendar next year! It’s usually in April.
Leach Garden Children’s Nature Faire
Andrew and Jack Grayburn and Anna O’Brian watch, as Leach Botanical Garden volunteer and “Slugmaster” Ron Goodwin see which slugs are the quickest.
Although we had a little problem the Children’s Nature Faire at Leach Botanical Garden this year – we didn’t notice the signs – scores of families had no problem locating the event. It was held in “the meadow” above the main grounds.
All day long, on May 16, kids got to explore the garden, meet local environmental groups, and celebrate spring, with hands-on activities and crafts.
“It’s important for kids to learn about nature at an early age,” said the garden’s Executive Director, Karen Young, at this event. “We feel it’s important to get them connected with the environment when they’re young, so they’ll have an appreciation for it as they grow into adults.”
Just kiddn’around: This baby goat was mistaken for a dog by many, who passed by without stopping to get a better look!
Buy the way, the garden’s Honey Bee Tours and Lady Bug Tours continue into the summer. Be sure to check our Community Calendar for more information.
Leach Botanical Garden is open Tuesdays through Sundays; they’re located at 6704 SE 122nd Avenue – a long, winding block south of SE Foster Road. For more information, call (503) 823-1671.
© 2009 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
Actually, it was more like a major remodel! If you were one of the folks who were surprised to find Midland Library closed, a couple of weeks ago – take a peek at what was going on inside …
Midland Library manager Javier Gutierrez shows us around during the week-long cleaning and remodeling project in April.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
One of the most-used public buildings in outer East Portland is, without a doubt, Multnomah County’s Midland Library.
“This library building has been open for 12 years now,” manager Javier Gutierrez told us, as we walked into the great room on April 13. “This is the first time we’ve been closed for maintenance. We’re one of the busiest libraries in the county, so it does get a lot of wear and tear.”
This is an unusual sight: Midland Library devoid of books, and without patrons.
The wall-to-wall carpeting in the public areas, about 26,000 sq. ft. of it, was starting to wear out, especially around the desks and walking areas. Workers stripped it out and replaced it with large squares of carpet tiles.
“Being closed these days is a very big undertaking,” Gutierrez. “We wish we could have kept the library open, and done this in parts and pieces, but the amount of work to be done was simply too great.”
Contractor Fred Zittleman with H&F Enterprises talks with Multnomah County Project Manager Ned Nabeta about the remodeling project.
A ‘green’ remodel
We asked Penny Hummel, the library system’s communications manager to reveal some of the specifics that went into the spruce-up program.
She pointed out that, before the work could begin, computers had to be unhooked and stored, furniture moved, and everything covered with protective plastic – a major job in and of itself.
“The new carpet contains 45 to 48% recycled material; it’s a ‘Green Label Plus’ product,” Hummel began. “It’s very durable and stain-resistant, but if a carpet tile is damaged, it can be easily replaced. And, the old carpet was recycled by the installer. All of the adhesives that were used on this project were water-based, low-VOC products.”
In addition to the replacement of the flooring, county workers replaced lights that were out throughout the building, replaced feet on the chairs, replaced some of the wooden baseboarding by the restrooms, and refinished the edges of the tables.
In total, Hummel said, the effort was budgeted at $120,000.
Sonny Garcia quickly and carefully lays replaceable sections of carpet tile on the new library floor.
Workers stay on the job
During the peak of the remodeling, as many as 30 workers were in the building, racing to meet their goal of reopening on April 20.
“Our staff continued to work, even though the building was closed to the public,” Gutierrez told us. “We’ve been processing incoming books from the drops, sorting file cards, and getting ready to re-shelve items. We circulate over 60,000 items a month.”
As patrons started returning to Midland Library, after the week-long clean-up marathon, many of them looked surprised and pleased to see the clean, renewed building that was theirs again to use and enjoy.
© 2009 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
Find out why these two rank-and-file members of their respective bureaus were selected to win the prestigious “Russ Lemmon” Award …
Come on by and check out the freshest foods at the season! – Here’s why …
Market Master Steve Voorhees welcomes everyone to the Parkrose Farmer’s Market. This is one of our favorite photos of him from last season!
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
The Parkrose Farmer’s Market is coming back, and ready to for another great season, says Market Master Steve Voorhees – as he and the vendors gear up for another season in the Parkrose High School south parking lot, starting Saturday, May 2nd.
“Come, and you’ll see a great variety of produce, fruits, and merchandise for sale every Saturday, from 8:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m.
This year’s lineup of vendors includes:
AR Moss Floral Design and Event Embellishment, Portland OR – Selling Nursery stock, small plants and seeds.
- Be Bop Blooms – All natural tomato plants, 12 varieties of pepper plants, herbs and veggie plants ready for you take home!
- Be Bop USA – Pet Products – Locally made dog and cat collars, leashes and specialty training aids. Benefits unwanted animals.
- Bobs Elephant Ears, Portland OR – Selling Elephant ears for your tasting and cold beverages
- Bridge Pottery, Portland OR – Makers of hand-crafted, original, wheel-thrown functional pottery creations, suitable for daily use or displayed as fine works of art. All pottery is “food safe”, with lead-free glazes, and may be used in a microwave, dishwasher, or conventional oven.
- Dig To Be Dug Nursery, Portland OR – Proudly growing plants with love, care, and attention
- Four Winds Restorative Grounds, Portland OR – Offering therapeutic and relaxation massage
- Gabriel’s Bakery, Portland OR – Selling whole-grain breads, bagels, French Pastries, Peruvian Pastries, cookies, etc.
- Happy Return Flowers, Portland OR – Selling Cut Flowers and Produce
- Kiyokawa Family Orchards, Parkdale, OR – Selling Fresh fruits and Produce
- MAVDAV Farms “The Farm”, Portland OR – Offering Fresh Picked Fruit and Produce
- Old Fashioned Caramel Corn, Happy Valley, OR – Get your Processed and Prepared foods here
- Pd Farms, Elgin OR – PD Farms strongly believe educating the public about the health benefits of naturally-grown produce and beef; they say it is as important as growing and marketing their products
- Sage-Works, Portland OR – See a variety of semi-precious and precious stones, hand-blown glass, bone, shell, swarovski crystals, and various other earthly materials in products including Leather and Hemp.
- Shell’s Jewel’s, Portland OR – Buy high-quality hand-made glass, crystal, shell, and stone jewelry for women, men, and children.
- Sturms Berry Farm Inc., Corbett OR – Berries include Straw, Rasp, Black, Blue, Marion, and Black Raspberry. Also selling Jams and Syrups.
- Maryhill Orchards and Vineyards; Takahashi Farms – Get the best fruit and produce of the season, as well as honey and jellies.
- Traveling Coffee Kids, Portland OR – Enjoy coffees and snack foods here.
- Twisted Stitches, Portland OR – aCrafts Artisan.
- Unger Farms, Cornelius, OR – This family has been growing strawberries for 63 years. “Quality fruit is what we bring to the market; sustainability is how we grow our fruit.”
- Wan and May’s Fresh Bloomers, Portland OR – Fresh Farm Nursery cut flowers and vegetables.
- Walchli Hermiston Melon Co., Hermiston OR – Fresh melons and fresh veggies.
Look for signs, like these, pointing to the Parkrose Farmer’s Market on Saturdays, starting May 2!
The Parkrose Farmer’s Market is on NE Shaver St, a block west of NE 122nd Avenue – across the street from Parkrose Middle School.
For more information, CLICK HERE to see their website, or contact Voorhees at steve_voorhees@q.com
© 2009 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
Learn more about the 37-unit affordable housing development – one that features a built-in day-care center – to outer East Portland …
ROSE Community Development President Jim Barrett (left, standing under the balloons) welcomes people to the lot on which Leander Court, the newest development of Rose Community Development Corp., will be built.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
While some neighborhood leaders and business people in outer East Portland question whether or not more low-income housing is good for Powellhurst-Gilbert, a new 37-unit development did break ground not long ago.
Leander Court, the new Section-8 housing, is being built on SE 122nd Avenue, just south of SE Holgate Boulevard. Amenities will include a courtyard, three play structures, two covered play areas, Energy Star appliances, and a community room with kitchen.
“We’re pleased to be breaking ground for this affordable housing development today,” Nick Sauvie, Executive Director, Rose Community Development Corporation, told us. “There are a lot of families in the area that are really scraping to get by. It’s all they can do to pay for housing, food and health care.”
Sauvie said this project was created to “keep rents affordable. It will make a big difference for families living here with income ranges are between 30-50% of median income.”
Two of the units are designed with extra space for in-home child care providers. “This provides an income-earning opportunity to two families.”
Portland City Commissioner Erik Sten welcomes guests to the groundbreaking ceremony for Leander Court, a new Section-8 housing development in outer Southeast Portland.
On his way into the ceremony, Portland City Commissioner Erik Sten told us, “This is a scarce opportunity: Building family-size units, in a good location near schools, and in a safe, new environment.”
The commissioner said that the families moving into the new residences will have the chance to build a great community here. “For me this is really exciting. We need to have this kind of development everywhere in Portland. But, land is getting so scarce and expensive. So, when a group like Rose Community Development pull it off it is really exciting.”
The $7.3 million development is expected to be completed by July, 2007.
© 2006 David F. Ashton ~ East PDX News
Look here to find out when, and where, your
National Night Out party is …
East Portland Crime Prevention Specialist Rosanne Lee invites everyone to participate in their neighborhood’s activities “Look for these signs to find the event in your neighborhood,” she says..
Events compiled, and photo by David F. Ashton
Other than neighborhood association meetings, the one time folks can get together to improve their immediate area is to join in a National Night Out party or event. Most of them take place on Tuesday, August 1.
The event, created reduce crime, also helps boost community spirit.
Outer East Portland Night Out Events, listed by Date and Neighborhood
Parkrose Heights – Saturday, July 29
Lou Fontana and his volunteers at Oregon Baptist Retirement Homes put on one of the largest National Night Out events in the area. A cruse-in car show, live music and lots of food are at this great event. Note, this year it is on Saturday! It’s all happening at 1825 NE 108th Ave., just north of NE Halsey St.
Lents – Saturday, July 29
Enjoy this Saturday block party in the area of 8940 S.E. Reedway St from noon to 3 p.m.. Call for more information: (503) 788-8052, extension 108.
Mill Park – Saturday, July 29
This Block Party is centered at 14001 S.E. Taylor today from 3 to 9:30 p.m.. Call for more information: (503) 823-2460.
Powellhurst-Gilbert – Sunday, July 30
A little early, folks are inviting neighbors to a barbecue and potluck from near 3140 S.E. 119th Ave. Call for more information: (503) 760-1684.
On National Night Out, August 1st …
Argay – Tuesday, Aug. 1
The party at Argay Park, at NE 141st Ave. and Shaver St., promises to be bigger and better than ever! Groove to themusic of the Kooltones; chow down on Burgerville Tillamook burgers, drink, chips for just $1.50; chomp into Rossi Farms fresh sweet corn on the cob; ice cream; clowns, face painting, games for the kids; visits from firemen, policemen and dignitaries.It runs from 6 to 8:30 p.m. Call for more information: (503) 256-5579.
Centennial – Tuesday, Aug. 1
Come to Parklane Park, SE 155th Ave. & Main St. from 6:15 to 8:15 p.m. for cookies, punch and fellowship with your neighbors. Call for more information: (503) 252-4302.
Glenfair – Tuesday, Aug. 1
One of the smaller neighborhoods is Glenfair, but their association’s chair, Stephen Jenkevice, makes sure there is fun (and usually lots of pizza) at their event at Glenfair Park, 15331 NE Couch Ct. (best to approach from Burnside St.) from 6 to 8 p.m. Call for more information: (503) 502-8041.
Lents – Tuesday, Aug. 1
A good, old-fashioned ice cream social is the event John and Judy Welch host for National Night Out at Lents Park Picnic Area “A”, on SE 92nd Ave., south of Holgate Blvd. It runs from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Call for more information: (503) 771-4667.
Mill Park – Tuesday, Aug. 1
This Night Out event brings Mill Park neighbors together for Chalk Art (on the street) a great pol-luck, entertainment and other fun. This Street Party is at SE 114th Plaza and Yamhill St.; it runs from 6 to 9 p.m. Call for more information: (503) 408-1465.
Montavilla – Tuesday, Aug. 1
How about meeting your neighbors while you enjoy cookout and barbecue? It’s happening in Montavilla at 6:30 p.m. at 8913 S.E. Mill St. Call for more information: (503) 735-5914.
Parkrose Heights – Tuesday, Aug. 1
Join your neighbors at Knott Park, NE 117th Ave. at Knott St. The fun and games start at 6 p.m. Call for more information: (503) 784-8076.
Powellhurst-Gilbert – Tuesday, Aug. 1
Take some goodies and enjoy the barbecue and potluck at the Montessori Franciscan Earth School, 14750 SE Clinton St. They start at 6 p.m. and run until dusk. Call for more information: (503) 703-9418.
Russell – Tuesday, Aug. 1
The other ice cream social in outer East Portland will be at 12532 NE. Knott St. from 7 to 9 p.m.. Call for more information: (503) 252-7605.
Russellville – Tuesday, Aug. 1
A potluck, held at the end of the cul-de-sac on SE Mill Ct. at 102nd Ave. starts at 6 p.m. Call for more information: (503) 808-4552.
Wilkes – Tuesday, Aug. 1
You’ll be able to smell the burgers being cooked by Ross Monn’s crew at Wilkes Park, 3655 N.E. 154th Ave. tonight! It runs from 6 p.m to 8 p.m. Call for more information: (503) 261-1010.
Woodland Park – Tuesday, Aug. 1
The tradition continues for this great, small neighborhood at the intersection of NE 101st Ave. and Bell Dr. It runs from from 6 to 8 p.m. Call for more information: (503) 257-2817.
Parkrose – Saturday, August 5
Look! Get a taste of the famous Parkrose Lions BBQ Chicken, chow down on famous Rossi Sweet Corn-on-the-Cob and rock out to blues tunes provided by Beal St. NW at this fun block party! Marcy Emerson-Peters and association volunteers are putting on their second annual event at Senn’s Dairy Park, NE 112th Ave. at Prescott St. It runs from noon until dusk. Call for more information: (503) 254-3794.
© 2006 David F. Ashton ~ East PDX News
See the smiles on their faces as these kids learn the importance of growing food in their very own garden space …
In the Lents Children’s Garden are (Back row) Saige Keikkala; Bailey Schweitzer; Sarah Goforth–Children’s Gardening Educator; Mara Reynolds, Assistant ‚Äì (Middle row) Row: Joshua Keikkala; Madison Keikkala; Josh Ashbaugh; Grace Vu ‚Äì (Front row) Krista Ashbaugh (the young man with the squash); Jacob Ashbaugh.
Story and photo by David F. Ashton
Instead of scolding their children for getting their clothes soiled, some parents in outer East Portland are encouraging their kids to go out and “dig in the dirt” this summer.
These kids are taking part in a Portland Parks and Recreation program that teaches gardening skills to youngsters.
“We have 30 different community gardens around the city,” the Parks Department’s Children’s Gardening Educator, Sarah Goforth, told us when we visited. “Of these, three garden plots are reserved for children’s gardening. One of these Children’s Gardens is here in Lents.”
This program helps youngsters learn healthy eating habits, Goforth continued, as well as understand nutrition and discover the natural world in the community garden, close to their home.
She said that children’s gardening classes are open to kids ages 6-12 years old. And, they’re absolutely free of charge. “During the program, kids learn how to grow and care for organic vegetables, as well as learn about soil, insects, compost, biodiversity, and much more. Together, we make snacks, fresh from their own garden and the kids get to take home extra produce to share with their families.”
Goforth said the classes aren’t limited to the summer months, but extend into the fall.
The only such program in outer East Portland so far is at Lents Community Garden, on SE 88th and Steele. The Children’s Gardening Program runs every Thursday from 9:00-10:30 a.m.
For more information, or to reserve your child’s place in this FREE program, contact Goforth at (503) 823-1617 or childgard@ci.portland.or.us.
© 2006 David F. Ashton ~ East PDX News
Although it’s an annual event, see why this, the first Pancake Breakfast held by the Thelma Skelton “Loaves and Fishes” Center at their new location, was important to their continued success ‚Ķ
Joie Xiali, Lisa and Hank Barnett enjoy a great, hot breakfast on a rainy, wintery day – and, at the same time, support the agency that helps their parents by giving them hot meals.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
The hundreds of individuals, couples, and entire families who braved the cold, driven rain along SE Milwaukie Avenue were rewarded with a hot, toothsome breakfast a not long ago.
Guests kept the volunteers at the Thelma Skelton Loaves and Fishes Center busy as they served up Pancake Breakfast at the senior center in Brooklyn. On the menu were pancakes, biscuits with sausage gravy, ham, and eggs. Second helpings were offered to extra hungry diners.
Volunteers William Benseler, Colette Livermore, and Mike James work the grill and serving line, cooking up fresh hot breakfasts.
We talked with the Barnett family as they enjoyed a Saturday morning family breakfast. Their daughter, Joie Xiali, seemed delighted by her pancakes and syrup. Her parents, Lisa and Hank ordered the full breakfast.
“It’s a good breakfast, and a great cause,” said Lisa. “My parents are served by this ‘Meals on Wheels’ center. We’re happy to support them, because they do so much good in the community.”
Drivers deliver food, and compassion
Hank explained that Lisa’s parents can’t easily go shopping anymore. “And, it’s difficult for them to cook. More than that, they really appreciate the human contact. They’ve gotten to know the volunteers who deliver the meals. It’s often the highlight of their day.”
Meals on Wheels coordinator Merna Rabetoy shows off a craft item she’s selling to raise additional funds for the Brooklyn senior center.
First event in new location
Linda James, center manager, smiled broadly as she watched the center’s volunteers scurry about, serving the steady stream of breakfast patrons.
It was midmorning when we visited. James commented, “We’ve already served a couple of hundred people. The response has been awesome; we’re thrilled with the community support we’ve received.”
This center opened in February, James told us. “This Pancake Breakfast is our annual fund raising event. We did it when we were housed at the Moreland church. It is always scheduled for the first Saturday in November.”
There are two reasons behind their annual fundraising effort services, Janes said: “One is to raise funds to provide seniors with meals, the other is to raise community awareness about the work we do.”
Helps senior citizens stay at home
Loaves and Fishes centers serve seniors who need food service at home, because they find it difficult to shop for groceries and cook for themselves. Thus, James commented, it allows them to stay in their homes with a better quality of life.
The Thelma Skelton Center serves about 175 meals, Monday through Friday. Drivers deliver more of the prepared, hot meals to seniors’ homes.
Volunteers needed
“There are only three staff members at the center. “All the other workers here are volunteers. We love and appreciate our volunteers,” James related. “We are always looking for volunteers.”
If you’d like to help, the Brooklyn-based center needs more volunteer drivers who are willing to deliver the meals, and spend a few moments brightening a senior’s day. “We have 13 routes every day, for each day of the work week. Plus, we need about six volunteers here every day to dish up and package the meals to go out. Volunteers also serve lunch to those seniors who can come into our center for lunch.”
To volunteer, or find out more, call James at (503) 988-6334 or e-mail her at ljames@lfcpdx.org.
© 2006 David F. Ashton ~ East PDX News
Toxic levels of lead is often found in older homes. But you may be surprised to learn where lead can hide in newly-remodeled residences. Read this, and learn how to easily protect yourself — and your loved ones — from the avoidable tragedy of lead poisoning ‚Ķ
Perry Cabot, workshop coordinator of the Portland’s Lead Poisoning Prevention Program, tests a harmless looking dish ‚Äì and discovers toxic levels of lead.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Right now, you may have a very dangerous “heavy metal” in your home, out where your kids can play in it.
Even small amounts of it damage the body’s nervous system connections ‚Äì especially in young children ‚Äì and it causes blood and brain disorders.
The culprit: Lead.
No, the problem isn’t found in pencils; they’re made with graphite.
“Indeed, lead is a poisonous metal,” says Perry Cabot, workshop coordinator of the City’s Lead Poisoning Prevention Program at a class he’s conducting at the Sellwood Community Center on February 5.
There’s no way to ‘get the lead out’
“Lead is toxic because it is a heavy metal that is persistent in our environment, and it is a bio-accumulative metal. This means, when it gets in our body, it stays there for one’s entire life. It isn’t excreted. The more lead we take in, the more that stays there,” he says.
Cabot pointed out that lead is particularly dangerous to pregnant women and to children because it damages the brain of the developing fetus. It also damages the brains of young, developing children. “Sadly, the damage is permanent. Kids never recover from it.”
Typical sources of lead contamination
Lead is chiefly found in older, lead-containing house paint, Cabot explains. “When old paint is sanded, or breaks down into dust, it’s usually a very fine dust. Kids playing in the area can easily transfer this dust from their hands to their mouths and faces. This hand-to-mouth contact is a common source of poisoning of children today.”
Sherrie Smith, the program’s outreach coordinator adds, “Many people remodel at this time of year. Remember, more than 50% of lead poisoning cases happen because of in-home remodeling.”
Lead poisoning unlikely from very old pipes
We ask about the likelihood that, in the oldest of homes in East Portland, one could be poisoned by lead water pipes.
“In very old homes, there may be lead pipes,” Cabot responds. “But, more than likely, the pipes are cast iron or galvanized steel.”
Instead, it is homes built, or remodeled, primarily between 1970 and 1985 that are more at risk, Cabot said. “The risk is that copper pipes are joined together with lead-based solder. ‘Middle aged’ plumbing imparts the highest risk. When water sits in the pipes for hours, some lead can leach into it.”
Cabot shows participants how to use the free lead-testing tools they receive as a registered participant of the lead-safe workshops.
Workshop teaches how to be “lead safe“
Cabot says he doesn’t scare homeowners about the dangers of lead poisoning–he educates them on how to be safe, by presenting free Lead Poisoning Prevention Workshops.
“We tell people what lead is, what makes it dangerous, the most common sources of lead, and how we test our bodies and homes for lead. Also, we show people how to prevent lead from getting into us in the home environment.”
It’s easy to test blood for lead, Cabot explains. It is a simple pin-prick test available at the free, bimonthly Josiah Hill III Clinic. “We recommend testing for all children at about one year, then at two years of age. It should be routine screening.”
Testing your home
At the workshop, Cabot tells participants about expensive and cheap ways to teat for lead.
Cabot breaks out free testing materials for the registered class members. “The Community Energy Project provides some very useful and effective free dust-testing kits for people who attend our workshops. We also recommend–and give out in the class–a free “Lead-Check” swab.
Surprise hiding places
In homes, Cabot instructs, lead can be found in unexpected places.
“We were surprised vinyl mini-blinds imported from China may contain unacceptable levels of lead. One wouldn’t think mini-blinds are lead-coated, nor have lead added to them. But when they break down in the sun, lead becomes accessible in the home.”
Regulations are lax about the use of lead in overseas product manufacturing plants, Cabot says.
“You’d be surprised to learn the number of lead-contaminated children’s toys and jewelry sold at dollar-type stores. They’re cheap, colorful, and very attractive to children. When the lead is found in them, there are massive recalls. But many times we don’t find the lead until entire the lot has been distributed and sold.”
Learn how to safe from lead poisoning
Get more information on the frequent no-cost Lead Poisoning Prevention Program workshops by going to www.CommunityEnergyproject.org – or call (503) 284-6827.
© 2007 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News Service
The first parade of the season‚ this one’s a Portland Rose Festival Centennial event‚ takes the avenue on April 28. Read all about the organization behind it in our weekly series about East Portland Business Associations‚
Backed by the Royal Rosarians, 82nd Ave. of Roses Business Association President Ken Turner officiates at the grand opening of Joann’s Superstore.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
This association of businesses as started in 1987, and now has a strong membership that includes business members from all sections of the association’s boundaries. They are also very proud to count as members several neighborhood representatives; government representative; non-profit organizations and educational facilities.
This association represents businesses along and abutting the 82nd Avenue of Roses, from Portland International Airport in the north, to the Clackamas County line in the south.
A vision for change brings new name
In 2004, the Associations Board of Directors supported and approved a ‘new plan in direction’ to be undertaken by this business group.
Paul Ellison, manager of Bank of the West at SE 82nd Avenue of Roses and Division Street, plants community roses, with the help of Royal Rosarians and staff from Portland Community College Southeast Center.
First part of the plan was to get a wide range support to change the name of the street, making it “The 82nd. Avenue of Roses”. A resolution was passed by the Portland City Council in November, 2004 in which, from that day forward, our thoroughfare would be referred to as The 82nd Avenue of the Roses.
More than new designation
Adding “Avenue of Roses” to this storied thoroughfare’s name may not, by itself, create positive change. It is, however, a significant indicator of the action both neighbors and business are taking to improve this historic, geographic band of East Portland.
Second phase of their revitalization plan was to unite the neighboring residential communities with the business district in an effort to improve the real and perceived image that this area has been labeled with.
Working together, the group undertook the “We Report All Crimes” campaign. Neighbors and business people encourage businesses in the district to display the campaign’s window decals. The result was that several hundred businesses chose to identify themselves with the association, and the anti-crime program.
Mark Schmidt (right) helps organize volunteers, from both neighborhood and business, for the group’s “Window Cling” distribution effort.
Community-minded projects
This association has created projects with the neighborhoods in mind, as well as the businesses. They are designed to increase a sense of community, goodwill and prosperity in and near the district.
For example, all businesses and residences have been encouraged to plant roses on property that abuts to 82nd. Avenue. Co-coordinating with the Portland Royal Rosarians and the Portland Rose Society, eight official ‘rose plantings’ were held in 2006. This number does not include those businesses that planted roses on their own and without fanfare.
Dave Lister and Ken Turner, getting ready to install another Window Cling.
Sign caps designate area
The next effort was securing funding and support to participate in the City of Portland’s sign cap program.
This entailed creating a design, for a metal sign that would depict the Association’s new logo, on all city street signs on 82nd. Avenue.
Portland City Commissioner Sam Adams and Ken Turner admire a new “sign cap”, designating 82nd Avenue as the “Avenue of Roses”.
In late 2006, City Commissioner Sam Adams presided over the official un-veiling of the sign caps.
Come join the parade
In association with the Portland Rose Festival Association, plan now to enter or watch, the Avenue of Roses Parade scheduled for April 28th at 9 a.m. sharp.
“This event is a collaborative effort,” the association’s president, Ken Turner tells us, “involving several neighborhood associations, business associations, and many other organizations. Participants include bands, marching groups, Chinese Lions, the Keystone Kops, Royal Rosarians, Rose Court Princesses, Portland Corvette Club, clowns, and more.”
The Avenue of Roses Parade starts at Eastport Plaza, 4000 SE 82nd Avenue. The parade will travel north along 82nd Ave.; then west onto SE Yamhill, disbanding at SE 78th Avenue. Presenting sponsors for the event are Eastport Plaza Shopping Center and Washman, USA.
Festivities continue after the parade, with a sidewalk festival hosted by the Montavilla East Tabor Business Assn. and Montavilla Neighborhood Assn.
One significant outcome of this event will be to prove to the broader community that SE Portland has something fun and positive to offer the City.
Member spotlight
Bank of the West‚ Paul Ellison, Manager
Ellison has been a very involved business for over 10 years. This type of time commitment is indicative of the desire of the business community to help mitigate positive change along the 82nd. Avenue of Roses corridor.
Eastport Plaza‚ Ken Turner, Manager
Turner has also supported the entire area by encouraging the healthy development of the entire area.
Washman USA, Portland Community College, Standard TV and Appliance, Banfield Pet Clinic and Bill Bitar, Elmers Restaurant are but a few businesses that have been very helpful in keeping 82nd Avenue viable as a business district.
© 2007 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News Service
