Take a look at the photos – if you know this jerk and
anonymously turn him in – you’ll net a cool $1,000 …
Do you know this guy? Help put him behind bars.
By David F. Ashton
We’ve kicked back a few with friends at the Ace Tavern, a friendly neighborhood bar at 8868 Northeast Sandy Boulevard.
But on Tuesday, July 22, 2008, at 1:58 a.m. a “last-call customer” decided to use the Ace’s cash register as his personal ATM.
“The suspect, armed with a knife, entered the tavern through the rear entrance and immediately went into the bathroom,” police spokesperson, Catherine Kent told us.
The barkeep was getting ready to close for the evening.
“The suspect, armed with a knife, approached her and demanded money from the till. The suspect took the money and left on foot eastbound on NE Prescott Street,” Kent said.
Here’s a profile of Mr. Cool – great hat, eh? He didn’t know – or didn’t care – if he was caught on camera. Let’s get this creep out of the neighborhood.
He’s probably a local. The suspect is described as a white male, in his 40’s, 5’7″ to 5’10” tall, shoulder-length blond hair, brown eyes, and mustache. He was wearing a light -colored or faded hat, a gray “Cowboys” sweatshirt, and blue jeans.
Here’s what to do …
Crime Stoppers is offering a cash reward of up to $1,000 for information, reported to Crime Stoppers, that leads to a resolution in this case, and you remain anonymous. Call Crime Stoppers at (503) 823-HELP (4357).
© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
A year after Portland City Council stripped cops of their street prostitution-fighting ordinance; street sex has exploded along 82nd Avenue. See how the City now plans to combat this unsavory problem and (below) how neighborhood organizations are responding …
Standing in the background, Portland Police Bureau East Precinct Commander Michael Crebs, Roseway Neighborhood board member Tyler Whitmeyer, Madison South neighborhood’s Geneva McArtor, Portland Police Bureau Chief Rosie Sizer, Portland Police Bureau SE Precinct Lt. Vince Elmore and Madison South neighborhood chair Ruth Hander listen as Portland Mayor Tom Potter reads a statement detailing plans to curtail street-level prostitution.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
After no less than three different citizen grass-roots organizations – joined by members of the 82nd Avenue of Roses Business Association – circulated petitions, scheduled town hall forums, and planned a protest march, Portland Mayor Tom Potter came to the embattled avenue to announce plans to curb the burgeoning street sex industry that’s been plaguing the area.
Standing with area neighborhood chairs and officials from the Portland Police Bureau, Potter began an open-air press conference at on Thursday, September 11, at 11:00 a.m. sharp, outside the Montavilla Community Center on NE 82nd Avenue of Roses at NE Glisan Street.
Note: What follows is our capture and transcription of Mayor Tom Potter’s speech as it was given. To see the official, written version of his speech, CLICK HERE – this link calls up a PDF document located the City’s official web site.
Mayor Tom Potter says the new plan is in response to a 300% increase in vice calls from 2006 to 2007.
Says street prostitution is “intolerable”
After greeting all present, Mayor Tom Potter introduced police brass and neighborhood organizers, and then read prepared remarks.
“We’re here today to join with the neighbors, and talk about how we’re going to take back the streets from the prostitutes, the pimps, and the johns [prostitution customers],” Potter began.
“They’ve made 82nd Avenue and Sandy Boulevard an intolerable environment for our children, our businesses, and our community. We’ve seen more than a 300% increase in vice calls from 2006 to 2007 in East and Southeast precinct. More importantly, we’ve witnessed how parents must clean up the playgrounds and ball fields that have been used by prostitutes before they can let their children play.
“This isn’t only unsafe; it’s intolerable to me – and to the people who live in the neighborhoods – and to everyone who lives in Portland. I don’t want anyone to think for a moment that these are victimless crimes. Or that the police resources could be better used elsewhere. Many of these women are abused, raped, robbed by both pimps and johns. Pimps are often drug dealers and gang members. Customers not only expose themselves to the threat of disease, but expose their families [to this threat] as well.”
Potter tells how recent law enforcement efforts have curbed prostitution activities along 82nd Ave. of Roses.
Prostitution brings crime to neighborhoods
Potter continued, “Where prostitution flourishes, drugs, theft, burglary and assaults soon follow. Just last month, a prostitute, who was beaten up by a pimp, stabbed him to death. A week later, another pimp was shot to death.
“Today, I want our community to know that we are changing what is happening on the streets. Since mid-August, [Portland Police Bureau] Chief [Rosie] Sizer has directed the Portland Police Bureau to increase their crackdown on both prostitutes and johns. During six anti-prostitution missions over 10 days, officers arrested 36 prostitutes — including one minor. They also arrested 27 johns and one pimp.”
Patrolling against prostitution
In addition to the large-scale anti-prostitution missions, Potter added, “Now, four officers in unmarked cars are patrolling [areas on either side of 82nd Avenue] seven days a week. They’re dedicated to vice calls only, and nothing else. Additionally, officers from three precincts will run a least four anti-prostitution missions each month.
“[Portland Police Bureau East Precinct] Commander [Michael] Crebs, who’s been spearheading this task force, says community members tell him that these missions and patrols are making a noticeable difference along the avenue. Perhaps more notably, we’re trying to fundamentally change how our criminal justice system here in Portland deals with the problem.”
Attempting to stall the Justice System’s ‘revolving door’
“Currently, most prostitutes who are arrested are back on the streets working only hours after they arrested. Working with the District Attorney’s office, we’re asking judges to [try] repeat offenders in Circuit Court – rather than the current practice of doing so in Community Court – for prostitution-related crimes. If convicted [in Circuit Court], they’ll be placed on probation, which will allow judges to exclude them from certain areas, or require them to enter treatment.
“We’re working toward a system where officers will have the ability to arrest prostitutes who enter an area, in violation of their probation and put them in jail.”
Portland’s Mayor describes how the criminal justice system will deal with those convicted of engaging in prostitution activities – including the possibility of treatment.
$1/2 Million dedicated to treatment
“At the same time, the Portland City Council will consider allocating a total of $500,000 to develop treatment options for prostitutes. While there’s a popular notion that most prostitutes are dealing with drug abuse issues, research by Commander Crebs in the past few weeks shows that [underlying causes] are much more wide ranging; drugs play a smaller part than anticipated.
“Therefore we must develop treatment programs that address sex abuse counseling, housing, child care needs, and job training, as well as drug counseling. This is not coddling offenders; rather, it’s breaking the cycle of dependence between a prostitute and her pimp. We’re getting to the root cause of the problem, by giving them new skills to create a new life away from the streets. Part of this money will be used to create a Service Coordination Team, similar to what is been so successfully used in Old Town [downtown]. This team of officers will identify the worst offenders, and offer them the choice of help or jail time.”
Asks for continuing community support
Potter concluded by thanking citizens and asking for their continued support.
“The Montavilla Foot Patrol is out several nights a week, actively targeting prostitution areas, and contacting businesses along the route. Local businesses are working with police to share information on criminal activity, and signing Trespass Agreements that allow the police to stop suspicious activity after hours. Citizens are creating Court Watches to monitor how prostitution cases are proceeding in court, and reporting back to their neighborhoods.
“I believe these efforts are an important beginning, helping these communities regain control of their streets, and addressing these problems at their root causes.”
Portland Police Bureau Chief Rosie Sizer tells how she’s fought vice crimes, such as prostitution, during her career.
Police chief dedicated to fighting vice
Portland Police Bureau Chief Rosie Sizer then stepped up to the podium and addressed the gathering, which consisted mostly of reporters and TV news crews.
“I would first like to extend my deep commitment to the residents and businesses along 82nd Avenue,” Sizer began. “I have spent major portions of my career fighting vice activities, and fighting the notion that prostitution is a victimless crime. In addition to the toll it takes on the women involved, street prostitution victimizes the community. It erodes a sense of safety, and stigmatizes neighborhoods. It is a crime.”
Sizer thanked the involved police precincts, singling out East Precinct Commander Michael Crebs and Officer Heath Kula for developing the current plan to combat prostitution. She gave kudos to Commissioner Randy Leonard for finding funding for treatment.
Finally, Sizer expressed appreciation for the District Attorney’s office, saying, “I thank D.A. Mike Shrunk and Assistant Director Carl Goodman [of the Department of Community Justice for Multnomah County] for their willingness to partner with us, and for their flexibility in addressing how prostitution is handled by the criminal justice system.”
Questions and answers … and a comment
Q Won’t there be a relatively long “lag time” between a prostitute’s or john’s arrest, their court dates and eventually conviction – only at which time they’ll be sanctioned?
A Potter responded, “We’re trying to reduce that time. The actual model that’s used on the west side is this: [Talk with an alleged offender] while they’re in jail, before they’re arraigned, and before the trial. Give them some choices in their lives in terms of treatment versus incarceration.
“There are problems in the criminal justice system. Part of the problem is that the criminal justice system is greatly under-funded. We don’t have enough judges or district attorneys. We don’t have enough jail space to hold the people who need to be [held in jail] until they are given some choices about their lives. There are no guarantees all of this.”
Q You’ve said as part of probation, judges will exclude those convicted from certain areas. Can you differentiate between this new program and Prostitution-free Zones (PFZ)?
A The difference is,” Potter replied, “that it is not a police officer excluding a person from a geographic area. It is the order of a judge that excludes them. That is quite different, because when the judge gives an order, if there is a violation, and if they’re caught in a prostitution area, but they’ll end up back in jail. To me, this is really the way that it should be done. Everything we did before was trying to adjust to a criminal justice system that was not functioning properly. I think with this model in mind, it’ll perform much better than it has in the past.”
Q We’ve heard that prostitution-related calls have tripled within the last year, since the PFZ was discontinued. Wasn’t it a mistake to discontinue them?
A “No. It wasn’t a mistake,” asserted Potter. “We find that [PFZ] exclusions tend to displace the problem instead of solving the problem. In fact, right now we’re seeing some of the spillover effect out here from the enforcement efforts in the Old Town area. Instead of displacing the problem, we want to fix the problem.”
Area resident, Liz Sullivan, tells the group why she has concerns about the plan announced by Mayor Potter.
Mt. Tabor neighbor takes Potter to task
Liz Sullivan stepped to the podium and told the gathering why she, a Mt. Tabor resident, got involved with the Montavilla in Action petition drive to reinstate the PFZ ordinance.
“I’m helping because we don’t understand what’s happening to our neighborhood,” Sullivan said. “Overnight, organized crime moved in. We saw so many groups of prostitutes – during all hours, and on all days – it scared me. I know if you don’t stem the problem and address it, it’s sure to grow deep roots here.
“Mayor Potter, with all due respect, it was a huge mistake to let the Prostitution-free Zone end,” Sullivan went on. She argued that the rationale to allow the PFZ ordinance to “sunset” was based on research done on Drug-free Zones downtown, not prostitution, and not on the eastside. Further, she asserted that without the PFZ in place, prostitutes, pimps, and organized crime have moved into town from Seattle.
“Our neighbor to the north, Seattle,” asserted Sullivan, “has a similar zone. They simply provide more enforcement. They have consistent, mandatory sentencing. They have stronger enforcement on the johns. I don’t think this proposed solution even attacks the johns.”
Commander Crebs challenged her inference, saying “This program does go after the johns; they’re all treated equally. [Convicted] johns will also be placed on probation.”
Sullivan urges Potter and the Portland City Council to reconsider reinstating Prostitution-free Zones at the press conference.
Looks for stronger medicine
“On probation!” shot back Sullivan. “I think it needs to be stronger than probation.”
Sullivan asserted that the city promised “real solutions” when the PFZ ordinance was allowed to sunset on Sept. 30 2007. Looking to the future, she asked, “What will it be like when I-205 MAX opens, bringing in more crime that is associated with light rail? … I don’t understand why the Prostitution-free Zones can’t be reinstated.”
Potter replies he feels Prostitution-free Zones were not effective; the Criminal Justice System will reduce the causes of the problem.
Trying to make the system work
Potter retorted, “We’re not trying a new model. We’re trying to make the criminal justice system work efficiently.
“We’re saying to the judges: Please make the system work. Please put [those convicted of prostitution-related crimes] on probation, and hold them accountable. We will go out and make sure that this is the case. This is how the criminal justice system is supposed to work.
“I was the Police Chief when we created the drug and prostitution-free zones. As Mayor, I feel that they were not as effective as they should have been.”
Before the press conference, Portland police Bureau Southeast Precinct Lt. Vince Elmore and Portland Police Bureau East Precinct Commander Michael Crebs review the program on which they’re working with one another.
Precincts work together on prostitution-fighting plan
Portland police Bureau Southeast Precinct Lt. Vince Elmore will be handling the “operational side” of the new program, he explained to us. “What I’m doing is making sure that the patrol officers assigned to deal with 82nd Avenue livability issues, such as prostitution, are patrolling the neighborhoods on either side of the Avenue.
“The specialized patrols will consist of officers from both SE and East Precinct,” Elmore explained. “We’ll also collaborate with the Bureau’s Traffic Division, Drug and Vice, and other divisions to address this problem.”
Portland Police Bureau East Precinct Commander Michael Crebs said he was working as a liaison with city and county governmental agencies. “By working together and joining our resources, we’re going to take a bite out of prostitution.”
Crebs said he is hopeful that this program will get positive results. “Members of the community have spoken loudly and clearly: ‘This is really bad.’ I think we have the momentum to get the politicians, the District Attorney – all of the agencies involved, including the probation officers – to pour resources into this area’s issue.”
Organizers comment
No one with whom we spoke after the press conference speculated that Potter chose to release his plan on this date to get a jump on a widely-publicized “Town Hall Summit” scheduled for Monday, September 15 at Vestal Elementary School.
Ruth Hander, Chair of Madison South Neighborhood Association, said, “Hopefully, it will work. I think we helped push them into action. They’ve been talking about lots of plans. It’s good that things are starting to moving along.”
“Save NE 82nd Avenue Coalition” chair Dawn Rasmussen pitches their group’s Town Hall Summit on Sept. 15 at Vestal Elementary School at the press conference.
Pitches Town Hall Summit on September 15
A driving force behind the “Save NE 82nd Avenue Coalition”, Dawn Rasmussen, told us after the conference, “I think [Mayor Potter’s announcement] brings attention to what is going on 82nd Avenue. It is good to see leadership address the problems here.”
Both at the press conference, and later during our conversation, Rasmussen reminded us of the upcoming Town Hall Summit her group is hosting on Monday, September 15.
“Our goal with this Town Hall Summit is to bring together the community to discuss the causes of prostitution and also discuss solutions. This is a community-based approach. It’ll be positive, and focusing on the human side of the victimization [against prostitutes]. And, it’s also empowering citizens to figure out what we can do as citizens to help assist all the city agencies and the Police Bureau in combating this issue.”
The venue for the Town Hall Summit, the auditorium at Vestal Elementary School, seats 400, and the organizers say they hope most of them will be filled with concerned neighbors. It runs from 6:00 to 8:30 pm at 161 NE 82nd Avenue (just south of E. Burnside).
Because it was held on a weekday morning, few people – other than Portland’s fine press corps – were on hand at the press conference.
‘Montavilla in Action’ responds
Liz Sullivan of “Montavilla in Action” told us she, and the group to which she belongs, chose not to stand with the Mayor, because doing so would appear to give tacit approval the plan being rolled out at the press conference.
She and her group parsed a document that outlines the city’s prostitution-fighting program entitled, “Taking Back Portland’s Neighborhoods: Fighting Prostitution On 82nd Ave. & Sandy Blvd.”. It was handed out by Potter’s staff at the press conference. (CLICK HERE to see this PDF document at the City’s web site. This is different than Mayor Potter’s speech text.)
To read the response, in the form of an “open letter” Montavilla in Action prepared to the city’s document, CLICK HERE. You will go to the text of their document on a page here at East Portland News.
Group plans September 20 march on 82nd Ave.
Sullivan added, “We plan to have our “March on 82nd Avenue to Reclaim our Neighborhood” on Saturday September 20, starting at Portland Community College Southeast Center. Please come out and join us.
For more information on their march, visit their web site by CLICKING HERE.
© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
We’ve seen the results when this happens at homes and apartment buildings – but look at the devastation a careless act caused at a venerated local business …
Portland Fire & Rescue crews keep pouring water on material used to make industrial conveyor belts at this September 10th three-alarm blaze in inner SE Portland.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
For decades, Empire Robber & Supply, located in inner SE Portland’s industrial area (on SE Taylor and SE Water Streets), has been fabricating, installing, and servicing heavy-duty conveyor belts which move mountains of gravel and other building materials.
But, on September 10, officials say a moment of carelessness reduced a big section of the company to a smoldering heap of rubble – when a fire, the smoke of which could be seen as far away as Tigard, destroyed a building. Quick action by Portland Fire & Rescue (PF&R) squads – answering three alarms – kept the blaze from devastating separate buildings of the business as well as surrounding businesses.
The fire broke out just after closing time; employees had left the building.
Had firefighters not aggressively attacked this fire, huge rolls of flammable rubber like this would have caught on fire, officials say – and the situation would have quickly grown much worse.
Twelve engines pumped massive amounts of water to firefighter’s lines on the ground – and in the air.
“The fire went quickly to a second alarm,” PF&R spokesman Lt Allen Oswalt told us, as engines pumped water up to six nozzles attacking the fire high above the building. He said they added a third alarm to bring in additional firefighters to relieve the first crews. 84 firefighters, operating 12 engines to pump the water up the ladders to supply five ladder truck snorkels, fought the fire.
“Not long after they arrived on scene,” Oswalt continued, “part of the roof collapsed while firefighters were inside. Deputy Chief John Harding immediately ordered all crews out of the building; we accounted for all of the. We’re now sure no civilians are inside, although an individual was initially reported seen in an upstairs window.”
The work was exhausting for firefighters, Oswalt commented, because the thick, black smoke produced by burning rubber and other materials forced crews working outside the building to wear their breathing apparatus. We watched crews swap out their depleted air tanks for fresh canisters, as the firefighting effort continued.
The choking smoke obscures the buildings across the street near the Willamette east-bank waterfront.
There was no “pot of gold” at the end of this rainbow; only a fire-devastated business.
An employee, who declined to be identified, shook his head as he watched the fire from behind the emergency yellow tape stretched across the street, saying he’d just returned from a job site. “There’s a lot of rubber in the building; even more in the warehouse,” he said as he pointed out his white SUV parked on the south side of the building being doused with water.
It took nearly a half hour – and a river’s flood of water – for the firefighters to control the blaze. Crews from as far away as Station 30, located east of NE 122 Avenue, were called in on “fire watch” throughout the night, dousing hot spots.
High above the fire, two PF&R crewmembers direct streams of water down on the blazing building.
Neglected barbeque gone wild
The following day, Oswalt reported that fire investigators had determined that the blaze had been caused by improper disposal of charcoal ashes.
“Earlier in the day,” explained Oswalt, “the company had a barbeque for its employees. During the cleanup, one of the employees placed the ashes from the briquettes in a plastic container. The hot embers eventually melted though the plastic container, and ignited nearby combustible materials.”
After the smoke cleared, it was evident that firefighters had managed to keep the fire from reaching an attached portion of the building that contained the company’s offices and records storage.
“The fire threatened to spread though several large openings in the concrete wall, but firefighters were able to beat the fire back, so that there was only minimal damage there,” Oswalt added.
PF&R spokesman Lt Allen Oswalt says he’s seen too many fires – mostly at homes and apartment houses – caused by used barbecue charcoal briquettes. He hopes citizens will learn from this tragedy.
A cautionary tale
The fire bureau’s spokesman shook his head and said they “too often” find smoldering, discarded barbecue briquettes to be the cause of fires outside homes and on the decks of apartment buildings.
“Ashes or cinders from cigarettes, fireplaces, or barbecues should always be placed in a metal container, doused with water, and placed outside away from decks or anything else that will burn. Charcoal, in particular, can stay hot, and burn for hours – sometime days,” warned Oswalt.
“A metal container with a tight-fitting metal lid can ensure that the fire and heat stays inside the metal container.”
© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
See what happens when the “Shop with a Cop” program pairs Portland Police officers with needy kids …
See how the cops showed their support for Montavilla neighbors who are fed up with street-level prostitution and drugs, overflowing from 82nd Avenue of Roses …
Officer Kennith Fox, neighbor Marie Hopper, Officers Scherise Hobbs and Matt Schroeder, Dave Hillman of the Mt. Tabor Foot Patrol, Southeast Precinct afternoon shift supervisor Lt. Vince Elmore, and Officer Josh Howery are some of the 200 people who came out to spend time at the Portland Police Bureau’s Mobile Command Unit in Montavilla.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Neighbors who live near a house on the 300 block of SE 76th Avenue told us – and continue to tell us – that they’re fed up with their neighborhood being a haven for drug runners, pimps, and prostitutes. Although police have made multiple raids, and arrested numerous suspects, the open drug deals and open-air prostitute/pimp confrontations continue.
To discourage criminal activity in the area, the Portland Police Bureau (PPB) took a novel approach to dealing with the problem last week, on August 29.
When drug buyers and pimps started filtering into the area – ready to party during the holiday weekend – they saw the PPB Mobile Command Center parked at the intersection, and numerous police cars and Traffic Division motorcycles parked throughout neighborhood.
Although the cops were very visible, the scene looked like more like a block party than a police action.
A festive atmosphere
Instead of looking like a SERT callout, refreshments were set out under the Mobile Command Center’s awning, tables were laden with community service information, and Crime Prevention Specialist Katherine Anderson was on hand to answer questions, the intersection had the appearance of a block party.
“We’re waving the ‘community policing flag’ today,” explained Portland Police Bureau Southeast Precinct’s afternoon shift supervisor, Lt. Vince Elmore. “Specifically, we’re addressing some issues here that are negatively impacting the area. We’re having coffee, talking with people in the community, and working with the neighborhood associations, so they can sign up more members to come to their meetings.”
Wants all to feel safe in their neighborhood
One of the activating events, Elmore related, was the story of an elderly life-long resident of the area who was repeatedly confronted by hostile-acting pimps and prostitutes.
“It got so she didn’t want to leave her house,” Elmore continued. “This is unacceptable – not only for this woman, but for all neighbors who live here. So, I’ve made the Mobile Command Center my office for my shift this afternoon. We thank Starbucks and Safeway for donating the refreshments.”
Additionally, Elmore added, the bureau’s presence was a way of endorsing the efforts of community groups working to reduce crime.
Taking a short break from their patrols, a squad from the police bureau’s Traffic Division stops by to talk with neighbors.
‘Montavilla in Action”, acts
“Prostitution creates livability issues,” stresses Fritz Hirsch, a Montavilla resident, and one of the founders of an independent group of neighbors called ‘Montavilla in Action’.
“It’s a public safety issue; many pimps and some prostitutes are dangerous people,” Hirsch proffered. “Their customers, the ‘johns’, are dangerous people; they bring crime to our neighborhoods. Crime and reduced livability brings property values down – and in the end, that should be of concern to the city and county. It’s a multifaceted problem.”
About the cops’ “block party” concept, Hirsch opined, “It shows a willingness for our local government to allocate resources to address this problem.”
“One of the founders of Montavilla in Action, Carol Cima, asks neighbors to sign a petition asking the Portland City Council to reinstate the Prostitution-free Zones.
Neighbor volunteer ‘absolutely thrilled’
“We feel so blessed and honored that our police officers have come and are spending time here,” commented Carol Cima, another of the “Montavilla in Action” founders.
In past years, Cima said, street prostitutes dressed in sweat shirts and jeans. “But now, the gals are strutting around in bustiers, drop-down shoulder blouses in flashy colors, very very short skirts, and four-in heels – blatantly doing their best to attract the johns’ attraction. In front of our home, we’ve counted 18 cars going by in 20 minutes. And, the parkway is littered with used condoms.”
“Our police officers need tools to work with to specifically address the reduction of prostitution,” Cima told us. “We’re circulating a petition asking the Portland City Council to reinstate the Prostitution-free Zones here in East Portland.”
Hard to believe as it may seem, an alleged drug buyer didn’t seem to notice the police presence near the alleged drug house at which he hoped to score dope for his holiday weekend party.
Doper tries to score
How significant is the problem here, just a block north of SE Stark Street? We were told a man we’d seen cruising through the area returned several times throughout the evening until he was stopped by officers. He admitted he was waiting to buy drugs at the alleged “problem” house on the block.
For the sake of these neighbors, we hope the police presence will continue – and that the neighbors will remain vigilant and proactive as they work to reduce crime – and the fear of crime – and improve the livability of their neighborhood.
© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
The smoke from the fires could be seen across the greater Portland area. See why the firefighters intentionally torched 34 acres of natural area …
Using special fire-starting gadget called a drip-torch, Portland Fire & Rescue’s brush-fire specialists light fires that burn off weeds on Powell Butte.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Although firefighters train throughout their careers to proficiently extinguish fires, crews from the Portland Fire & Rescue (PF&R) Urban/Wildland Interface team proved equally adept at igniting a firestorm on Powell Butte on Thursday, September 4.
“This controlled burn actually promotes natural area conservation,” explained PF&R spokesman Lt. Allen Oswalt, as we watched fires sweep across acres of grassland. “This ‘prescribed burn’ also reduces fuel sources for wild fires. And, it’s an excellent training opportunity for all agencies involved, including those who would assist at a wildfire but are not usually familiar with combating such an emergency.”
PF&R spokesman Lt. Allen Oswalt keeps his eye on the progress of the prescribed burn at Powell Butte.
Seeing some good fire
At 1:00 p.m., firefighters and Parks Bureau personnel walked along the edge of a section of open field, carrying drip-torches that dribble a flaming mixture of diesel fuel and kerosene on the dried grasses.
The breeze picked up, and the fire crackled loudly as it swept across the parcel. Even standing downwind, one could feel the heat of the blaze from yards away.
“We were concerned that the recent rain would reduce the effectiveness of the burn today,” Oswalt commented. “But, it looks like it’s burning pretty well. We’re seeing some good fire.”
Firefighters on ATVs, and in “brush rig” fire trucks, made sure the fire stayed within the prescribed burn area. After the flames died down, the pros doused hot spots before moving on to burn another section of land.
Fire crews from Portland and Gresham stand by to make sure the fire is contained and hotspots are extinguished.
Conservation through conflagration
We turned to Mart Hughes, a staff ecologist with Portland Parks & Recreation, who explained how burning flora helps promote conservation.
“The purpose of this burn is to return a natural process to Powell Butte’s grassland,” Hughes made clear. “The prescriptive fire will reduce flammable non-native vegetation, including Himalayan Blackberry and other invasive, non-native species, and prepare the site for seeding with native grasses and perennials. These will, in time, result in a grassland with higher wildlife habitat values.”
Visitors are warned, but not excluded
Oswalt drove us up Powell Butte’s bumpy, winding trails to get a better look at the fire from a high ridge. Along the way, we saw a barefoot bicyclist reading a book alongside a trail.
“We’ve publicized the burn, and Neighborhood Emergency Team members are notifying citizens entering the Butte from any trailhead. We’re asking them to limit their use of the park, but we’re not removing them,” stated Oswalt. “We’ve established several ‘safety zones’ in case of an emergency.”
Crews burn one section of land at a time, making sure the fire doesn’t get out of control.
A multi-bureau effort
The Wildfire Risk Reduction project – a three-year effort which ends in 2009 – is funded by a grant from the Federal Emergency Management Agency. The project, Oswalt noted, is a partnership among PF&R, PP&R, the Portland Bureau of Environmental Services, and the Portland Office of Emergency Management. “Gresham Fire and Emergency Services are helping manage the fire today,” added Oswalt.
Because several crews light sections on fire simultaneously, the active burning took about two hours. Fire crews then stayed late into the afternoon, making sure all the hot spots were safely extinguished.
“Fire Photo of the Day” – Repeated attempts to light this bramble with the drip-torch didn’t work. A little extra accelerant helped set this blackberry bush ablaze.
© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
While officials say they’re making plans and creating programs to curb the new explosion of street prostitution, many neighbors say they’re “fed up” with having their local streets turned into brothels. See what’s up …
If it weren’t for “johns” – like this alleged street sex customer being taken in by a custody team during a summertime mission – prostitutes and their pimps wouldn’t be so brazenly strolling along 82nd Avenue of Roses offering their services.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
When Portland Police Bureau Assistant Chief Lynnae Berg spoke to East Portland Concerned Citizens – a meeting on which we reported a couple of weeks ago – she was asked about how the bureau was dealing with street level prostitution, now that Prostitution-free Zones have been discontinued.
Her response: “…The zones are no longer in place; this is a fact of life. We’re working on other strategies to deal with prostitution. Until we have an effective strategy in place, we are working ‘precinct-level missions’ to reduce it.” She noted that it isn’t possible to continuously run anti-prostitution missions, because they are highly labor-intensive. “Hopefully, we will have more effective strategies in place in a couple of months.”
Judging by the collective groan heard throughout the room, her answer didn’t sit well with the attendees.
Officers on an anti-prostitution mission arrest another suspect for peddling sexual favors on SE 82nd Avenue.
Intensive missions in August produce results
Responding to the concerns of neighbors and businesspeople along 82nd Avenue of Roses, officers from SE and East Precinct have been running anti-prostitution missions throughout the month of August.
According to Police Bureau spokesman Sgt. Brian Schmautz, officers conducted a total of six “missions” – targeted law-enforcement operations – to reduce the highly-visible, blatant street-sex trade on 82nd.
Four of the missions, Schmautz reported, were set up to allow prostitutes to proposition undercover police officers. Two additional missions put undercover female officers on the street, to see if customers (“johns”) would attempt to pick them up and propose sex for money.
“During the month, 64 individuals were arrested for prostitution-related crimes,” reported Schmautz.
Group prepares Town Hall Summit on September 15
One group, calling itself “Take Back 82nd Avenue”, says they’re organizing a Town Hall Summit on September 15 from 6:00 to 8:30 pm at Vestal Elementary School, 161 NE 82nd Avenue (just south of E. Burnside).
“We’re holding this forum to develop a community-based and proactive solution session that empowers everyone with knowledge on how to deal with this issue at a house, street, business, and neighborhood level,” noted the group’s spokesperson, Dawn Rasmussen. “Additionally, we want to emphasize a humane approach to the women involved [in prostitution], as many [of them] are victims.”
They invited an impressive lineup of panelists – hopefully, she said, many of the city leaders will be on hand for the event. The auditorium at the school seats 400; the group is hoping that most of them will be filled with concerned neighbors.
Montavilla neighbors take action
Last Saturday, we met with a leader from a group calling itself “Montavilla in Action” (CLICK HERE to see their blog).
We learned these neighbors also feel they must take action because “82nd Avenue of Roses has turned into ‘Portland’s Red Light District’; the activity spills into all of the surrounding neighborhoods, especially our schools and parks.”
This group is obtaining signatures on a petition asking members of the Portland City Council to reinstate the Prostitution-Free Zone.
And, yet another group — from the Montavilla Neighborhood Association — is also holding a meeting they call “The Summit for Montavilla Neighborhood” on October 7 at Portland Community College Southeast Center at S.E. Division and 82nd. We’ll give you more details as they become available.
Starting in September, one police car will be dedicated, full time, to combating street sex in outer East Portland.
Police cruiser to target street-level prostitution
“The Police Bureau is currently dedicating one car to prostitution enforcement for a full ten-hour shift each day,” Sgt. Schmautz said on August 28. “The hours and location of patrol will shift, as individuals involved in prostitution activity change their behavior to avoid enforcement.”
We’ve asked to be allowed once again to ride along and report on this latest mission. We’ll let you know what we learn.
© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
SHOCKING BUT TRUE:
Move over meth! Big-time heroin trafficking is now out into the ‘burbs! Get the inside story here …
Folks living around this Montavilla Neighborhood home say they feel unsettled that a house on their street is suspected to be involved with one of the largest heroin distribution operations in East Portland the cops have ever seen.
Story and photo by David F. Ashton
We’ve all heard about the “methamphetamine epidemic” that swept outer East Portland. While the Mexican drug lords are still pumping the drug into our part of town; the dangerous methamphetamine labs are pretty much a thing of the past.
But some neighbors near the 9200 block of SE Market Street say they’re disquieted to learn heroin dealers had a “distribution center” set up on their otherwise quiet residential street, just south of SE Stark Street – mere blocks from area schools.
An observant few were not shocked. “Actually, I wasn’t surprised they were selling drugs there, based on what I’ve seen,” said a neighbor down the street, who begged not to be identified for fear of reprisal.
To get the facts, we talk with Portland Police Bureau Drugs and Vice Division (DVD) Captain Mark Kruger – a former Parkrose resident and long-time officer in East Precinct. He tells us information about the drug operation started coming to light on March 16th, when 28-year-old Kevin Caldwell Stoll died of a drug overdose in Northwest Portland.
“This death led us to begin an investigation; and 49-year-old Richard Williams was subsequently arrested,” Kruger says.
Using evidence obtained during the Williams investigation, officers developed information leading them to believe that Williams was supplied by a drug trafficking organization that was selling more than two pounds of heroin in the Portland Area every month.
With warrants in hand on August 19, DVD and precinct officers swept the SE Market Street house and seized approximately $17,000, two vehicles, and one ounce of heroin. They also executed search warrants on houses in the 1000 SE 114th Avenue in Mill Park and in the 3200 block of SE Palmquist Road in Gresham.
At the Montavilla address, “officers also discovered a room dedicated to the repackaging of heroin into small quantities for redistribution, and thousands of balloons used to distribute heroin,” Kruger adds.
Further, he said that investigators uncovered information that documents the fact that members of the drug operation made or received more than 8,000 calls in the past two months on telephones associated with the investigation.
Investigators arrested (left to right) 19-year-old Martin Camacho-Ramirez, 23-year-old Kevin Omar Castillo-Grajiola, 23-year-old Jose Gilberto Gracian, 21-year-old Casiano Huerte-Diego, and 18-year-old Edgar Zavala-Rodriguez – charging each with Distribution of a Controlled Substance and Conspiracy to Commit Distribution of a Controlled Substance.
Heroin moves east
“Heroin has been a problem on Oregon for many years – it is on a par with methamphetamine,” Kruger tells us. “Heroin has been more associated with the downtown Portland scene. Now it’s moving around a lot more. The group [broken up in outer East Portland] was working almost exclusively on the East side.”
While this bust has “put a significant dent” in heroin distribution, Kruger adds, they’re still on the lookout for other drug dealers looking to supply heroin to users.
This investigation is ongoing.
© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
North, south, east and west – we traveled to all of the National Night Out gatherings throughout outer East Portland. Here’s your chance to “ride shotgun” on our annual odyssey …
Carol Krikava, Parkrose Neighborhood Association’s Secretary, and Marcy Emerson-Peters (Chair of land use and community development) help out at the National Night Out information center at the Parkrose Festival and Cruise-in on August 2.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton (except as noted)
More than many other cities around the country, Portland – and especially outer East Portland neighborhoods – participates with gusto in the National Night Out Against Crime.
The purpose of these gatherings is to heighten crime and drug prevention awareness, and to generate support for – and participation in – local anti-crime programs.
Speaking about the event, Crime Prevention Specialist Rosanne Lee, who works with the East Portland Neighborhood Organization, commented at one of the gatherings, “They strengthen neighborhood spirit and police-community partnerships. But more than that, they send a message to criminals, letting them know that neighborhoods are organized and fighting back against crime.”
Not all events were on the “officially designated” dates – National Night Out activities took place all during the first week of August.
Where was the grandest event of all this year? Check out Argay Neighborhood Association’s party!
Saturday, August 2
Oregon Baptist Retirement Home
During the day, folks came by and enjoyed a BBQ luncheon, live Dixieland and Oldies music, participated in a silent auction, and walked among classic cars on the grounds in the 1800 block of NE 108th Avenue.
“We’ve got kids’ activities, police and fire bureau exhibits. and are having lots of run,” said organizer Lou Fontana. Proceeds from their event benefited Snow Cap Community Charities.
Parkrose Neighborhood Association
As part of the 2008 Parkrose Festival and Cruise-in, volunteers of this association talked with many of the thousands of attendees.
“We’re here to get the word out about how our association is actively helping neighbors,” said Marcy Emerson-Peters, past association Chair.
Tuesday, August 5
Gateway Apartments in Hazelwood
In Gateway, Robert Minden and James Oliver grill hot dogs for folks who live in their apartment complex.
For the first time this year, the Gateway Apartments, located in the Hazelwood Neighborhood, held a National Night Out event.
Gateway area neighbor Andrea Long presents some homemade baked goods to Portland Fire & Rescue crew members from Station 30, who were visiting their event.
“Because we have so many families living here, we decided to be part of this,” said coordinator Sandi Lattin. “We’re cooking up hot dogs and we’ve had all kinds of good picnic foods all afternoon – and also for folks who are just getting home from work. It’s been great; the police department has come by, and firefighters from Station 30 also came to visit.”
Wilkes/Russell Neighborhoods
Kerry Brown shows off one of the several cakes decorated for the Wilkes/Russell event.
Our next stop was up in the northeast corner of outer East Portland. Everyone, including your reporter, missed seeing Ross Monn, former Chair of Wilkes, because of his recent move to Spokane.
Bonny McKnight and Alice Blatt sign in guests at Wilkes/Russell National Night out.
Ice Cream scooper Steven Johnson keeps busy.
But, Kerry Brown and her band of volunteers came together to produce an Ice Cream & Cake Social. Their event included entertainment, gifts and games for their 200+ attendees.
Glenfair Neighborhood Association
Helen Beehler, Donna-Lynn Kublick and Betty Twiss serve pizza for their guests at Glenfair Park.
Again this year, neighbors hosted a pizza dinner in Glenfair Park. About 100 folks came by to mingle and enjoy their hospitality.
Portland Police Bureau East Precinct Cadet Joseph Huff gives out “Honorary Cop Badge” stickers at the Glenfair event.
A “makeover” – done by a clown? “Pockets the Clown” (a.k.a. Patricia Bunnell) performs a makeup consultation for Genfair guest Rachelle Grant.
“We’re having a great time, out meeting our neighbors, and letting them know more about our neighborhood association,” said Donna-Lynn Kublick, Chair of the neighborhood association.
Woodland Park
Laura and Glen Heiner – and family – cook up a feast for their National Night Out luau in Woodland Park.
This event moved out of the Heiner family’s driveway – and took over a whole street in the Woodland Park Neighborhood.
Portland Police Bureau East Precinct Officer John Billard shows kids around his police car.
“We decided to have a luau this year,” said organizer Laura Heiner. “For us, the very best part of National Night Out is getting to know all of our neighbors. I have four kids, and I want to know who my neighbors are.”
Centennial Community Association
Centennial Community Association’s Patty Hicks and Tom Lewis get prize tickets ready for a give away.
More than 120 neighbors showed up at Parklane Park for a potluck dinner, prizes, and information during Centennial Community Association’s event.
Neighbors look at plans Portland Parks & Recreation is considering for further developing Parklane Park.
There were games for kids, face painting, and other activities. Many of the adults enjoyed talking with one another. But a real draw was a chance to see the comprehensive plans set out by the Parks Bureau for developing Parklane Park.
Glenfair’s Lifehouse Baptist Church
“The Haphazards” perform their positive brand of praise music at this community event.
“We’re part of the community,” said Pastor Dan Brown, “so we are participating in this community event.”
PPB Cadets Megan Anderson and Rae McKay help spread the word about community policing – while they enjoy freshly-made Strawberry Shortcake.
Plenty of kids’ games kept the young ones occupied and happily winning prizes, and adult volunteers grilled up hot dogs and other treats.
Argay Neighborhood Association
Portland Mayor Tom Potter is welcomed to the National Night Out event in Argay Park by association Chair Valerie Curry.
Our next stop was in the Argay Neighborhood. Their National Night Out event was already in full swing – and the “KoolTones”, in their sixth consecutive year entertaining there, was playing great classic rock and roll music for the appreciative crowd.
“Thanks to our 61 volunteers, we had a great event,” said Argay Neighborhood’s Chair, Valerie Curry. “We estimate about 500 people came out; Burgerville cooked 485 classic cheeseburgers at the event.”
Bringing the burgers is Rodica Pirv with Heavenly Cafe — and the association’s Transportation Committee Chair – one of more than sixty volunteers helping out at the event.
One of the guests, Portland Mayor Tom Potter, arrived while we were visiting. Potter told attendees, “I’ve been visiting NNO events, and this is the coolest place I’ve been all day. Congratulations on a great National Night Out. Remember to connect up with your neighbors. By working together you can help to keep your neighborhood safe.”
Miguel Ruiz gets a tour of Portland Fire &Rescue Truck 2 from Firefighter Matt Fullerton.
Curry told us an event of this size is only possible because so many individuals, organizations, and companies donate time and materials.
“Again, Shaver Elementary School Principal Cindy Bartman supervised children’s games with the help of SUN School Coordinator Helen Vank and other teachers and parents. Tina Scarborough and Dana McCray sat in the sun throughout the event selling food tickets,” Curry recounted. She also thanked Parkrose High School, Parkrose Hardware, Kyle Ziegler (CastleGate Realty), Jeff Reese’s Parkrose Chevron, and Target stores.
Mill Park Neighborhood Association
Todd Baker cooks up the food for 70 neighbors in Mill Park for their annual street party.
“I think the heat chased people off today,” commented Mill Park’s event organizer, Todd Baker. “The good thing about our event is that we get to know our neighbors. There are a lot of new neighbors in the area this year.”
Lents Neighborhood Association
At Lents Park, volunteers scoop up ice cream sundaes for visiting neighbors. Photo: Mackendree Thompson ROSE Community Development Corp.
For many years, the Lents Neighborhood Association has held an Ice Cream Sundae Social in Lents Park at their National Night Out event.
Portland Development Commission’s Lents Sr. Project Coordinator John Jansons and Housing Services Coordinator Javier Mena share information about area development.
Near the end of the evening, Karin Hanson, Lents organizer Judy Welch, and Mayor Tom Potter talk about the success of National Night Out programs.
According to organizer Judy Welch, they went through about 13 gallons of ice cream, and 400 Otter Pops, as about 250 people came to their event in Lents Park.
Thursday, August 7
Liesl Vistaunet, public relations and marketing director for Portland Adventist Academy, and Rosanne Lee, ONI Crime Prevention Specialist, greet neighbors at this NNO party.
“We’re having our second annual neighborhood block party, and we’re having lots of fun,” is what Liesl Vistaunet, public relations and marketing director for Portland Adventist Academy told us about their event.
Vistaunet said they were holding a block party to welcome neighbors to their campus. “Some people who have visited say they’ve lived here for 50 years, but never set foot on our campus.”
Mattison Bibb learns how to crawl under smoke to reach safety, with the help of Portland Fire & Rescue Fire Inspector Michael O’Keefe.
Christine Escalante and Katie Palumbo serve up flavored snow cones at the Portland Adventist Academy event.
Another reason for holding the event is that the Portland Adventist Academy is starting a building campaign. “Over the next ten years,” Vistaunet explained, “we’re rebuilding our school, on the same property. We want neighbors to know that we’ll be improving our campus – not putting in low-income housing units, or another strip mall shopping center.”
We’re looking forward to next year …
As the sun slowly sank into the western sky, so ended our National Night Out travels for 2008. Now, check our Community Calendar and make plans to attend your neighborhood’s association meeting next month!
© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
How’s the city combating gang crime, street thugs, transit safety and prostitution? Learn more about the program the bureau’s Assistant Chief says is doing the job … or at least, part of it …
East Portland Involved Citizens (EPIC) Director Dave Smith introduces the cops who are tasked with putting the “HEAT” on crooks.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Many outer East Portland neighbors expressed concern, when they learned that the Portland Police Bureau East Precinct Crime Reduction Unit (CRU) had been dismantled.
Starting as the “Tired of Tweekers” initiative several years ago, CRU officers focused on detecting the criminal behavior, primarily, of drug-affected individuals – especially repeat offenders.
The CRU cops became very adept at keeping an eye on the crooks who were committing a large number of crimes; property crime reports dropped, and the drug trade was diminished.
Portland Police Bureau Assistant Chief Lynnae Berg tells why CRU was dismantled, and introduces the new policing policies.
Cop shortage forces changes
To find out why the CRU was dismantled – and how the Portland Police Bureau now deals with outer East Portland crime, especially along the eastern border of Portland – we attended the bi-monthly meeting of East Portland Involved Citizens (EPIC), a few days ago.
“In our bureau, we’ve been short on staffing,” explained Portland Police Bureau Assistant Chief Lynnae Berg. “We’re ‘running lean’, partly due to the time it takes to recruit and train new officers, and partly due to retirements. We’ve cut special units [such as CRU] in order to bolster staffing in the precincts.”
Additionally, Berg said, the bureau needed to better address gang activity throughout Portland. “From January through June 2008, there has been an increase in gang activity. Citywide, there were 32 gang shootings or incidents in which the gang unit was called out.”
Asked if this has become a crime trend, Berg responded, “It’s hard to tell, because of the cyclical nature of gang violence.”
These ‘high speed, low-drag’ officers make up the city’s new “Hotspot Enforcement Action Team” (HEAT), commissioned to reduce gang violence.
HEAT focused on gang activities
Berg told the group that a new citywide unit has been formed – called the “Hotspot Enforcement Action Team” (HEAT). “We believe that ‘high speed, low-drag’ officers – led by sergeants of the same ilk – could have an impact on crime. We sought out high-performance officers with good judgment, who work well in small teams.”
Berg said HEAT meets weekly to decide how to allocate resources. They focus on areas with gang activity, or where youths cause problems. Another purpose is to have officers show themselves in public spaces, to ease the fear of crime in parks, she added. “And HEAT has more than exceeded our expectations.”
With that, Berg introduced HEAT Sergeants Mendenhall and Passidore.
Difference between CRU and HEAT
Sgt. Anthony Passidore – one of the original CRU officers – spoke about the new program.
“In CRU,” Passidore began, “we took the time to ‘climb the ladder’ in several criminal organizations and dismantle them. In HEAT, we are ‘out in the public’; we’re not exclusively dealing with those who are involved in criminal behavior.”
While the team works citywide, Passidore explained that they focus on outer East Portland hot crime spots, such as the ones on the MAX light rail line along E. Burnside Street at 82nd, 122nd, and 162nd Avenues. “Most of the ‘hot spots’ we deal with haven’t changed; we look for areas that have a propensity for a high level of activity. It may be a high school, or some sort of social gathering place.”
Talks about gang violence
Berg said HEAT is helping the bureau with gang designations. “There is a growing segment of Hispanic gangs. Challenges we face dealing with them include cultural and language issues.”
Passidore said that during the 1980s, gangs wore their “colors” [a bandanna or other clothing of a certain color or pattern] when they hung out. “Starting in the 1990s, members hid their colors, for fear of being identified; older [gang members] coming out of jail don’t show colors. But, the younger members do.”
Little compassion for others
The difference between rude teenagers and gangsters, Passidore continued, is that gang members are driven by money and status. And, chillingly, they have little compassion for others.
“Gang conflict comes from disrespect, girlfriends, and territorial issues,” Passidore informed. “Especially with the younger ones, the silliest things can set them off. They go from calm to extreme violence — instantly.”
Asked if gang members set out to hurt uninvolved citizens, Berg answered, “They are intending to do violence against one another. But they show little concern a about ‘collateral damage’, when they spray automatic weapon fire in a dense neighborhood. Their threshold is very low for using violence.”
Passidore added, “It can be difficult to tell the difference between a band of disrespectful roving kids and gang members.”
Sgt. Anthony Passidore – one of outer East Portland’s original CRU members – now helps lead the citywide HEAT officers.
Violence on mass transit
Asked about mass-transit-related violence, Passidore put it this way: “If I’m talking to a family member abut riding MAX, I’d tell them, ‘You don’t have to live in fear. But if something doesn’t feel right, act with a little more caution. Good common sense and awareness is the rule. Call police, and let them address the issues’.”
Berg added, “TriMet policing has become more multi-jurisdictional. We have 18 TriMet officers and three sergeants in the system. We benefit from participating in TriMet policing; many crime problems are located in and around transit facilities throughout the city.”
No HEAT on street prostitution
Asked whether nor not the HEAT officers have worked to decrease outer East Portland’s exploding street prostitution problem, Berg said, “No, HEAT provides a uniformed police officer presence. Our strategy was not to get them involved in drug and vice issues.”
Responding to a question regarding Prostitution-free Zones, Berg added, “The zones were useful tool. The benefit was being able to trespass [prostitutes] out of an area and hold them accountable for their behavior. But, the zones are no longer in place; this is a fact of life. We’re working on other strategies to deal with prostitution. Until we have an effective strategy in place, we are working precinct-level missions to reduce it.”
The assistant chief added that it wasn’t possible to continuously run anti-prostitution missions because they are highly labor-intensive. “Hopefully, we will have more effective strategies in place in a couple of months.”
HEAT ends this fall
Berg said that they’ve recommended that HEAT continue operating until the start of school. “We’ll see if we need to send officers back to the precincts at that time.”
Learn more about EPIC
EPIC, formally known as the “East Precinct Block Captain Program”, is a group of concerned citizens who work toward being “part of the crime reduction solution”.
Their September 24 program will be a “field trip” to see the Portland Police Bureau’s Mounted Police Division stables.
To learn more, contact the EPIC Coordinator, Dave Smith, at dsmith@portlandpolice.org — or call (503) 823-4636.
© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
See why this fire burned so hot, quickly destroying the roof and putting the building’s structure in jeopardy …
This fire at VeloTech burned fast and hot, officials say.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Early Sunday morning, August 3, the alarm bells rang at one, then two – and finally three – Portland Fire & Rescue (PF&R) stations in outer NE Portland, as firefighters scrambled into their gear and headed to a commercial fire at VeloTech, located at 6150 NE 92nd Drive.
About 12:45 a.m., crews rolled through the industrial park, near the Columbia Slough, and found thick black smoke, and plenty of it.
“There was heavy smoke showing from the south end of the structure,” reported PF&R spokesperson, Kim Kosmas. “Firefighters were unable to locate the fire initially, due to the heavy black smoke. The fire quickly burned through the roof, due to the heavy fire load inside the building.”
Battalion Chief Mark Gift (in the white helmet and shirt) makes a plan for overhauling – taking out burned debris from – the burnt-out business.
We learned that clothing, bicycle tires, and CO2 cylinders were involved in the fire. “Crews were forced to go to a defensive attack, and quickly gained control of the fire,” noted Kosmas. “In total, 10 Engines, two trucks, one squad, two investigators, and three chiefs fought the fire, which they got under control at 1:43 am.”
Firefighters stayed on watch throughout the night, and into the next day.
From the building’s rear, the fire damage – including the missing room – is clearly evident.
At the fire scene later in the day, we saw crews preparing to shore up the sides of the building. Firefighters were standing by, but not yet entering the structure.
We asked Battalion Chief Mark Gift, then in charge of the scene, to describe the firefighting effort. “Our firefighters did a good job fighting a very intense blaze. This was a substantial fire.”
Gift noted that most of the roof was destroyed. “In this kind of building, the roof helps provide structural integrity to the building. We’re taking a close look at the structure – and making sure the outer walls are shored up – before we attempt to finish the overhaul along the edge of the roof.”
A welder prepares steel beams that will be used to shore up the walls, and keep the “tilt-up” structure from collapsing, while firefighters, investigators, and a clean-up crew work in the building.
Pointing to the northern portion of the building, Guest added, “These units have a one-hour firewall. It saved the other businesses.”
At the time of publication, no amount of loss had been determined for the building or contents. The fire was still under investigation.
© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
See why hundreds of everyday citizens converged on the police station, on this lovely summer Saturday afternoon …
Portland Police Bureau East Commander Precinct Michael Crebs welcomes citizens to the annual open house.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
One of the favorite summertime events we cover is the East Precinct Open House and Barbeque.
When we arrived at the police station on SE 106th Avenue, we were greeted by Portland Police Bureau East Commander Precinct Michael Crebs.
“Welcome to our open house,” Crebs said with a smile.
Joelle, Naomi, Rebekah and Hannah and Amanda Whitlock try out an ATV at the East Precinct Open House.
Jordyn Wolford tries his hand at the remote-control police robot, while his dad, Clay, looks on. “It’s just like a video game, but real,” Jordyn exclaims.
“We’re inviting people to come check out what were doing here at the Police Bureau. We want people to get to know us, and let us have the chance to get to know them,” Crebs explained.
Oftentimes, the commander noted, the only time citizens interact with police is when they’re stopped for a traffic violation, or have a home visit due to a “difficult situation. But, we like people to meet and talk with us when things are going good, so that we’ve established a relationship before something bad happens. That makes for a lot less tension.”
East Precinct and SERT Officer Larry Wingfield shows some of the tactical equipment he uses, to the East Precinct Involved Citizens chair, Dave Smith.
Checking out the police motorcycle is Emma, Melanie, and Leah Zallee, with Sgt. Erin Smith from the Portland Police Traffic Division.
All bureau departments present
At this, the precinct’s third annual open house, Crebs said all of the bureau’s major departments brought displays, including the Mounted Police, Traffic Division, SERT, Bomb Squad, and Robotics.
“Citizens pay the taxes that fund the police bureau – here, they can come and see how their money is being spent firsthand. We also have our crime prevention specialists here, helping people learn how to reduce crime and the fear of crime in their neighborhoods.”
Renee Fischer-Green holds Kylie as they meet Officer Craig Mack’s trusty mount, Merlin “the magnificent“.
Cadet James Trendell and Cadet Greg Buduy man the grills, as they help feed 500 hungry lunchtime visitors.
Police car trunk supply volunteer (a/k/a “a trunk lady”) Mary Walker pauses for a moment with Portland Police Chief Rosie Sizer, while awaiting lunch.
Bernie Bretz-Erdmann watches, as her grandchild Cole Frascone is fitted with a bike helmet by Officer Kristin Watt.
About 500 people took the precinct up on the offer to meet, and have lunch with, their police; no one was arrested.
© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
