If you missed it – even though we told you it was coming – take a look, and see why people say this event rivaled the largest commercial gift shows in town …
Lena Whight talks with Jerilyn Walker, one of 97 vendors at this year’s David Douglas Bazaar.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Georgia Mayfield made it perfectly clear why she was Christmas shopping at the 12th annual David Douglas Holiday Bazaar: “Why fight traffic going out to the Expo Center, pay for parking and admission, and see the same old stuff, when I can come here and shop for free?”
Yes, the hallways and the north cafeteria were filled with 100 tables covered with all kinds of gifts presented by 97 vendors, as the event got underway on December 6.
“It is our largest fundraiser of the year,” explained Kari Deardorff, Parent Teacher Student Association President, at David Douglas High School.
In addition to table rentals, the “Jingle Bell Snack Shop” was open for breakfast and lunch throughout the day.
David Douglas High’s PTSA board members pause for a photo during their Holiday Bazaar: Shannon Pitts, Treasurer; Lisa Keefe, Secretary; Gena Andersen, Vice President; and Kari Deardorff, President.
Proceeds support scholarships
“All of the proceeds go to support the college scholarships our program, in which we give six $500 awards to graduating seniors,” Deardorff continued. “The primary criterion for being awarded a scholarship is volunteerism, because we are a volunteer-based organization.”
To compete, students write an essay that describes their school and community volunteer efforts while they attend David Douglas High; good grades do also factor into the decision.
Meet three artisans
John Swenson shows off his line of “Soft Swords”.
Looking for a way to roughhouse but not cause injury? DDHS student John Swenson said he has the answer: his product called “Soft Swords”.
“They are padded play-swords for children of all ages,” pitches Swenson. “It’s an idea that’s been around for a while; I just took it and made it better. The ones in the stores last for about 30 minutes – but these are sturdy.”
Amie Griggs with her “family of snowmen”. “I’ve been making them for about three years. People seem to like them, and I enjoy making them.”
Joy Ginocchio and Doug Smith have a colorful selection of tie-dyed shirts on display. “We make these ourselves. I used to make them back in the 1980s,” Smith said. “We started making and selling them again last year, at Estacada Grower’s Market.”
© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
See who was indicted for this outer East Portland New Years Eve murder …
Police cars swarmed the area of NE 82nd Avenue of Roses and NE Thompson Street looking for the person responsible for a homicide.
Story and photo by David F. Ashton
In a story we brought you a year ago (CLICK HERE to read it), 2007 ended with an outer East Portland homicide.
Officials say it isn’t clear why this man, 25-year-old Christopher Adam Monette, a resident of North Portland, was gunned down just minutes before 2008 began in outer Northeast Portland. (PPB photo)
“The investigation began on December 31, 2007, at approximately 11:48 pm, when officers responded to a disturbance call with possible shots fired in the 8400 block of NE Thompson Street,” Portland Police Bureau Public Information Officer Sgt. Brian Schmautz told us.
“Christopher Adam Monette was found deceased, and Homicide Detectives were called to the scene to initiate an investigation,” continued Schmautz. “A Multnomah County Grand Jury recently returned a murder indictment regarding this case.”
Officials say they suspect this man, 30-year-old Jerrin Lavazie Hickman, of committing the New Year’s Eve murder. (MCSO photo)
Suspect arrested in Kaiser
The US Marshal’s Fugitive Task Force hunted down the suspect in this murder case, 30-year-old Jerrin Lavazie Hickman, in Kaiser, near Salem, and arrested him on the outstanding warrant on December 8, Schmautz informed us.
For investigative reasons, detectives are withholding additional information in this ongoing investigation. Anyone with information is asked to call Detective Ken Whattam at (503) 823-0696 or Detective Rico Beniga at (503) 823-0692.
© 2008 David F Ashton ~ East Portland News
See why more organizations – and more families – are taking advantage of this unique information exchange …
Hundreds of families come to learn about community resources at this year’s event held at the David Douglas Schools’ Fir Ridge Campus.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
The 5th Annual East County Resource Fair – held at David Douglas School’s Fir Ridge Campus, the district’s alternative high school – has grown considerably since we first attend the event. When we walked in this year, we saw more than 70 government agencies, non-profit organizations, and small businesse, represented at tables set up throughout the commons area.
“It started as a way to bring resources to our students,” explained Elizabeth Sommo, School-to-Work and Volunteer Coordinator at the school. “Students, and more importantly, their families, learn what’s available in terms of social services, employment services, non-profit organizations, and businesses.”
Elizabeth Sommo, the event organizer, welcomes guests to the Resource Fair.
This year, the fair was designated as a district-wide event, Sommo said. “We’re inviting all families from outer East Portland and East County school districts to participate. The fair is also a great way to build more community spirit, and have a fun event for people to attend.
“It’s a really great way for community entities to learn what’s going on in the school system, and for the school’s staff, students, and families to learn what’s available in the community.”
Arlene Kimura tells people why neighborhoods – and the EPNO neighborhood coalition – help make our city a better place in which to live.
One of the exhibitors at the fair was Hazelwood Neighborhood Association chair Arlene Kimura, who took charge of the East Portland Neighborhood Organization table.
“I’m here because our city’s neighborhoods are an important resource of which many people are not aware,” Kimura explained. “Some of these kids will eventually become our neighbors; they need to know why the neighborhoods are important, and how we help build stronger communities. They are our future citizens.”
Susan Palmer, of Multnomah County Health Department, School-based Health Clinics, tells parents how to access health care for kids.
© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
Look: The big winter blast won’t come in until the afternoon – come and help deliver some of the 556 Sunshine Division food boxes that need to get out …
Last year, there were plenty of volunteer drivers – this year – who knows? Just show up Saturday morning, December 20 and help! EastPDXnews file photo
Story and file photos by David F. Ashton
It’s a simple problem: Food boxes that provide needy families in outer East Portland are stacked up in the East Precinct garage; across the street from Floyd Light Middle School in Gateway. With the arrival of winter weather conditions, many people will stay home.
The Portland Police Bureau’s Sunshine Division depends on volunteers to deliver 556 boxes of food — each contains a complete dinner, including meat, bread and vegetables.
“If you have the appropriate vehicle to drive in inclement weather,” says Portland Police Bureau’s Officer Phil Kent of the Sunshine Division, “families across outer East Portland will sincerely appreciate the Christmas food box you’ll deliver.”
Portland Police Bureau East Precinct Cadets load a truck with food boxes to be delivered to needy families in the area. EastPDXnews file photo
If few volunteer drivers show up, Kent says, those who come will be asked to deliver more boxes. “Our Cadets and street officers will pitch in as well. We’re hoping for a good turnout. No matter what, we will get the boxes delivered.”
Reservations are NOT required
Just show up at 7:00 a.m. on Saturday, December 20 at East Precinct, 737 SE 106th Ave., just south of SE Washington St. (across from Floyd Light Middle School and the East Portland Community Center).
Cue up in the community center parking lot – and the East Precinct Cadets will direct you into the parking structure and load your vehicle. You’ll be given a clear map showing where deliveries should be made.
© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
“The Portland City Council meeting for tonight (December 17th) has been officially canceled due to expected weather conditions,” stated Portland Bureau of Planning’s Senior Planner Barry Manning.
The 6:30 p.m. meeting to consider the East Portland Action Plan at Midland Library, 805 SE 122nd Avenue has been postponed until after the start of the New Year, Manning said.
By the way, if you were planning to testify at the Thursday, December 18, 2:00 p.m. session of the Portland City Council – stay home. It’s been cancelled as well.
Chain up or get ticketed!
Writing of bad weather, Portland Police Bureau spokesman Sgt. Brian Schmautz asked us to remind readers that the Police Bureau will conduct enforcement if surface streets or freeways in the City of Portland are closed to vehicles without chains or traction devices.
“Last weekend, several people ignored warnings and drove without proper equipment,” Schmautz said. “This increases the risk to all road users. Please plan ahead if you intend to travel in inclement weather.”
© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News Click Here to read more East Portland News
Find out why everyone is talking about the special meeting to be held at Midland Library on December 17 – and why the East Portland Action Plan is unique, in and of itself …
The Bureau of Planning’s Barry Manning, East Portland District Planner, reviews the results and conclusions of the East Portland Action Plan Committee at this late-August Open House.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
A big step toward outer East Portland’s gaining parity with other areas of the city may occur when the Portland City Council meets on Wednesday evening, December 17, at Midland Library on SE 122nd Ave.
The East Portland Action Plan has been a year in the making; we’ve followed the progress of this unique process:
- To read how it started, CLICK HERE.
- To learn how it progressed mid-year, CLICK HERE.
- And to read about the committee’s wrap-up meeting, CLICK HERE.
Citizens express aspirations
The purpose of the East Portland Action Plan process was to create a “working document”, said the Bureau of Planning’s East Portland District Planner, Barry Manning, when we asked him to reflect on the year-long project. “It’s designed to look strategically at near-term opportunities to improve livability, as well as long-term strategies to address issues in outer East Portland.”
Manning said he felt that this process enabled the citizens in the area to express their aspirations about what could and should be done in outer East Portland – instead of merely being asked to sign off on a government-generated report. “This is a partnership model we expect to see emerging, in which citizens actively participate in solving community problems, instead of just leaving it all up to the government.”
Outer East Portland folks attend a meeting highlighting the actions resulting from East Portland Action Plan process.
A unique process in four ways
Manning agreed, when we suggested that the East Portland Action Plan (EPAP) appeared to be a novel approach to community problem-solving.
- “It is a departure for Portland Planning Bureau,” Manning responded, “in that it’s not focused mainly on land use and development issues, and isn’t resulting in a regulatory implementation mechanism.” He clarified that this means the EPAP doesn’t create zone changes or new regulations, although the plan does identify the need for some changes in those areas.
- “It’s also unique in that the EPAP committee included a mix of community representatives as well as elected officials, bureau/agency representatives, and non-profits,” Manning continued. “This mix is somewhat broader than in many planning processes.”
- A third factor he pointed out was that the process had a significant amount of attention, leadership, and backing from elected officials; namely, Portland Mayor Tom Potter, Multnomah County Chair Ted Wheeler, Portland City Commissioner Randy Leonard, METRO Councilor Robert Liberty, then-Oregon House Speaker Jeff Merkley, and former Portland Commissioner Erik Sten.
- Except for the Cully-Concordia action plan, Manning added, “I am not aware of many other “action plan” type efforts undertaken in Portland recently. During the late ’70s and early ’80s, the Bureau of Planning and some non-profit organizations hosted similar, smaller efforts that were much more focused – although they did result in action agendas.”
Implementation Group sets action priorities
The first phase of the EPAP process concluded in late August, when the committee held a community meeting and open house to share its findings.
Some EPAP committee members – called the Implementation Group – continued meeting during the fall. In this second phase of the process, they identified and prioritized actions that they felt would best utilize the $500,000 budget allotted by the Portland City Council.
This smaller group identified a dozen feasible, ready-to-go actions to consider for the funding. In an October open house, community members weighed in on these priorities.
Manning asks citizens to review the East Portland Action Plan, then come to next week’s outer East Portland City Council meeting to show support.
Seven actions to receive funding
- Providing “storefront improvement” matching grants for businesses on SE Division Street east of 122nd Avenue;
- Hiring an “advocate” to implement East Portland projects and pursue grants;
- Creating “safer routes to school” by improving pedestrian crossings at key locations on busy arterial streets;
- Initiating planning for future improvements on SE Powell Boulevard;
- Funding studies to create “Gateway Green,” a regional green space opportunity;
- Initiating a Portland Plan pilot study to consider and improve land uses, access, and connections, and development design along SE 122nd Avenue between Division and Foster; and
- Creating an EPAP grant fund to allow area organizations and groups to propose and initiate projects from the Action Plan.
December 17 will be the last evening Portland City Council meeting will Mayor Tom Potter will conduct before he leaves office on January 5.
City Council to consider adoption on December 17
Tom Potter will convene his last evening City Council meeting as Mayor at Midland Library at 805 SE 122nd Avenue on December 17, at 6:30 p.m., to consider adoption of the East Portland Action Plan.
Come and sign up to testify about the Action Plan, and share your ideas for improving East Portland! Multnomah County Midland Library is located at 805 SE 122nd Avenue. Before you go, check out the Action Plan at CLICKING HERE.
© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
Here’s what’s been happening with members of the East Portland Chamber of Commerce. Discover why you should check out this energetic group of East Portland business people …
Mayor-elect Sam Adams tells folks, who packed into the Portland Council Chambers, why he’s about to present the Spirit of Portland award to Richard Kiely, president of Home Run Graphics and member of the East Portland Chamber of Commerce.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Kiely awarded for demonstrating Spirit of Portland
We were thrilled to see Richard Kiely, owner of Home Run Graphics and East Portland Chamber of Commerce (EPCC) booster given the Small Business Spirit of Portland Award by Mayor-elect Sam Adams in the Portland City Council chambers on December 11.
Kiely has supported the Chamber’s major events, like the annual Golf Tournament, by providing a brand-new car for a duffer who is lucky enough to hit a hole-in-one. CLICK HERE to read about this year’s EPCC Golf Tournament.
NEXT WEEK: You’ll learn of Kiely’s accolades in a full article. The story will also feature East Portland’s Linda Robinson getting the “Independent Spirit” Award for her outer East Portland livability efforts and Portland Police Bureau’s Sgt. John Anderson and Officer Greg Baldwin receiving the “Community Policing” Award for their work building the new Parkrose Police Substation.
Scott Hendison of SearchCommander.com tells EPCC members how they can get better results from their web sites; and, outlines changes in the rapidly-changing world of Internet marketing.
Members get tech-savvy at networking meeting
Every Wednesday morning, EPCC members and guests gather at a different location to network and learn at their “Good Morning East Portland” sessions.
Often, members share their expertise with the group.
For example, Scott Hendison of SearchCommander.com hosted the event on December 3. In a few minutes, Hendison imparted valuable information, telling how Internet “search engines” work – and how to prosper from knowing how to optimize one’s website. He is in a position to know: Hendison has become a nationally-recognized expert in his field.
Before his formal program, Hendison told us, “The most important thing to know about search engine optimization is that things are changing in this area of technology; changing constantly and rapidly. Search engines like Google and YAHOO! are changing and adapting to what people are doing.”
He said that the search engine “rules of the game” are changing, in that they programmers who set up the rules are getting much stricter. They’re cracking down more on what is perceived to be ‘gaming the system’ to get a higher ranking than a site deserves.
When the business started years ago, he added, the algorithms used by different search engines were kept secret, but now, many people know how it works. “The search engine providers have become more and more sophisticated, changing their strategies almost daily.”
Learn more about Hendison by checking his website: CLICK HERE.
EPCC president Richard Sorem, welcomes guests to the opening of Santa’s Place – and where Santa was welcomed back to Eastport Plaza.
Chamber president introduces Santa’s Place
The East Portland Chamber members also participate in the community to help promote causes such as Santa’s Place – a community outreach program benefiting five agencies that help needy East Portland families.
We caught up with Chamber member Frank Ryan with NW Senior & Boomer News, Ken Turner, the Chamber’s Governmental Affairs director – and Chamber president Richard Sorem, a partner at Stewart & Tunno Insurance – as he introduced dignitaries at the opening of Santa’s Place. (Read how and why Santa Claus has returned full time, now through Christmas at Eastport Plaza by CLICKING HERE.)
EPCC Ambassadors Chair Holly Moss of The Bookkeeping Company gives away another door prize at the 2008 Turkey Bowl she organized, and is here, serving as Mistres of Ceremonies.
Famous ‘Turkey Bowl’ returns
No, Chamber members don’t bowl with real turkeys – it’s call the “Turkey Bowl” because it’s an event held near the Thanksgiving holiday!
More than 50 EPCC members, friends and guests took over about a third of the lanes at the AMC Bowl on SE 92nd Ave. a couple of weeks ago. “This isn’t a business meeting,” said organizer Holly Moss, “it’s all about having fun.”
The best way to show you how much fun this group has is in the photos that follow:
EPCC President Richard Sorem polishes his ball before going for another strike.
It looks like Sorem’s ball-polishing routine works – his group, “Team Stewart & Tunno Insurance” again won the first place trophy and prizes.
Kevin Minkoff, CPA (standing far right) and his group, “Team Not-Your-Ordinary-Bean-Counters” proudly display their 2nd Place ribbons and booty.
Yup! That’s Spirit of Portland winner Richard Kiely taking the “Best Game” award from Holly Moss.
Last meeting of the year: December 17
Plan now to get up a little early and come to the Chamber’s annual Holiday Celebration and Bazaar. Membership is NOT required to attend! It’s a good opportunity to meet these fine business folks.
By the way, this is your ONLY opportunity to by David F. Ashton’s famous “Macadamia Madness” chocolate confection (all of the proceeds go to the Salvation Army). It starts on Wednesday morning at 7:30 a.m. at Cherrywood Village, 1417 SE 107th Ave.
By the way, this will be their last meeting of the year. For more information, call (503) 788-8589 or CLICK HERE to visit their web site.
© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
This massive throng of leather-clad Harley and big-bike riders didn’t come to rumble. Discover why they gathered, by the thousands, for this annual “ride” …
Hidden just below the heads and shoulders of these folks are thousands of gleaming motorcycles, ready to be ridden from SE Portland up to “Pill Hill” during the 28th Annual ABATE Toy Ride.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Earlier than expected, on the bright and clear morning of December 6, motorcyclists started filing into the TriMet bus facility on SE 17th Avenue, just north of SE Holgate Boulevard. Most of them were dressed in leather garb; some were decked out in Santa suits, as they descended on the Brooklyn neighborhood by the hundreds.
Even though the 29th Annual Toy Run benefiting Shriners Hospital for Children wasn’t scheduled to depart for “Pill Hill” until 12:30 p.m., the massive, two-block-long bus parking lot was filled to overflowing with motorcycles, dirt bikes – and even motor scooters – by 10:00 a.m. Bikes soon lined SE 17th Avenue, spilling into the neighborhood streets for blocks around.
Portland Police Bureau East Precinct Officer Michael Gallagher and his wife Rebecca say being part of “Toy Run” has been a very rewarding experience.
Shows positive attitude of most bikers
“Mostly when you hear about motorcycle riders, it’s negative; bad news,” said one of the participants, Portland Police Bureau East Precinct Officer Michael Gallagher. He’s a district officer who also heads an East Portland Police Cadets program – not a motorcycle cop.
“There’s a huge community made up of many clubs like the one I belong to – Rose City HOGs – made up of good people, who do positive things for the community,” Gallagher observed, while sitting on his Harley with his wife, Rebecca, waiting for the ride to begin.
“I like to ride; it’s a real ‘de-stressor’ for me,” Gallagher said. “And being part of this event today is one of the most rewarding experiences I’ve had.”
Some bikers weren’t satisfied bringing one toy – this couple brought an entire trailer full of ’em.
Brings tears to a mother’s eyes
All along the route, Gallagher said people stop their cars to get out and wave, give the massive group of riders the “thumbs-up”, and cheer them on.
The image that stuck in his mind, Gallagher related, was “When we got up to the hospital, the son of a rider hopped off the motorcycle while his dad stopped briefly to give a sick youngster in a wheelchair a big teddy bear. Tears filled the eyes of the patient’s mother. It makes you feel pretty good.”
Helping to pack a TriMet bus stuffed with toys donated by the bikers, Harry Bede, Chairman-elect of Portland Shrine Hospital for Children, who says of the event, “It’s awesome!”
Largest Toy Ride ever
Harry Bede, Chairman-elect of Portland Shrine Hospital for Children, was smiling ear to ear as he helped stuff a TriMet bus floor-to-ceiling full of toys and plush stuffed animals.
“I’ve been involved with this event for five years,” Bede said. “The turnout today is impressive – in fact, incredible!”
The Shriners are “in the business of helping kids, and helping kids be healed,” explained Bede. “This event puts a lot of smiles on kids’ faces, and that’s the important thing.”
The final tally: 6,453 motorcycles rode in the event, and they brought 12,000 toys to needy kids.
“We offer our most sincere thanks to the A.B.A.T.E. of Oregon, Inc. and all of the organizations that help us bring health and healing to children without cost to their families,” said Bede – his voice nearly drowned out by the sound of thousands of motorcycles starting up for the day’s ride.
There’s no way to describe the feeling that the low rumble of thousands of motorcycles – and a few motor scooters – create inside a bystander as they head north along SE 17th Avenue in the Brooklyn neighborhood, en route to Doernbecher’s Children’s Hospital at Oregon Health Sciences University.
© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
You’ve seen stories about vehicles crashing into stores and restaurants around the great Portland area. This one ended up simply strangely parked …
How did this car end up like this? It wasn’t that driver accidentally backed down over the sidewalk.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
For reasons unknown, an increasing number of Portland-area drivers lately have accidentally smashed their vehicles into stores, beauty salons, and restaurants.
Westmoreland has not escaped the havoc.
The QFC Market on S.E. Milwaukie Avenue was undamaged by a “runaway car” on Thursday, December 11th. Witnesses said a white car rapidly accelerated in the rear parking lot, threaded itself between a tree and steel fence, and became stuck on a 45º angle between the lot and the street.
Surprising but true: cops say a slip of the foot resulted in this car’s unusual placement.
A Portland Police Bureau Officer reported, “About 4 pm, the lady driving the car said she was pulling into a parking space at the Westmoreland QFC store. Either her foot slipped off the brake pedal, or she hit the accelerator. The car was propelled up the embankment.”
No injuries or serious damage – except to the shrubbery, the officer said.
© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
When he discovered he’d been spotted, the driver of the stolen car sped through three neighborhoods trying to make a getaway. See how far he got …
The driver of this stolen car stopped and calmly surrendered – but only after spike strips shredded the tires and a police SUV blocked his path.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Police officers on patrol learn to be multi-task; they listen for calls, respond to citizens who hail them, keep an eye out for suspicious activity – and in this case, spot a car reported stolen.
On December 2, Portland Police Bureau SE Precinct Officer Daniels thought he saw a car that matched the description of a vehicle stolen from southwest Portland on November 24. He checked the license plate; it was, indeed, the purloined car.
Minutes before 11:00 a.m., Daniels noticed the car in the Brentwood-Darlington neighborhood, just southeast of Woodstock, heading eastbound on SE Flavel Street near SE 60th Avenue.
An officer photographs the stolen car; the only damage appeared to be the flattened tires.
“The vehicle continued east,” said police spokesman Sgt. Brian Schmautz, “and turned north on SE 92nd Avenue.
“At SE 92nd and SE Woodstock Boulevard, officers threw a spike stick that punctured the driver’s-side tires on the vehicle.”
But the car didn’t stop – continuing past S.E. Holgate and Powell Boulevards, and S.E. Division – before finally grinding to a halt at S.E. Clay Street.
“The driver is being compliant,” we heard reported on the police radio. “He is lying down outside the vehicle.”
cop who took the lead in the chase, Officer Daniels, questions the passenger who was riding in the stolen car.
Schmautz said police took 32-year-old Joseph Dennis Cunningham into custody. Cunningham’s record shows he’s been suspected of robbery, forgery, and property crimes – but this adventure earned him these charges: Attempt to Elude, Unauthorized Use of a Vehicle, Reckless Endangerment, Reckless Driving and Possession of a Stolen Vehicle.
“It’s a good day,” Daniels said. “We have two in custody, (the driver and a passenger who was detained) and no one was hurt.”
Police say this man, 32-year-old Joseph Dennis Cunningham, finally gave up the chase after the tires were flattened with spike strips.
© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
The class learned how to turn a soggy yard into a place of beauty. Discover the benefits of rain gardens – and, learn the biggest mistake in planning one – right here …
Candace Stoughton, Low Impact Development Specialist from East Multnomah County Soil and Water Conservation District, shares the joys of making and maintaining rain gardens, at this class held at Leach Botanical Garden.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
The conference room at Leach Botanical Gardens was filled to capacity with folks ready to take the “Rain Gardens 101” class being offered by Candace Stoughton, Low Impact Development Specialist from East Multnomah County Soil and Water Conservation District (EMSWCD).
“You’ll be learning how to add a beautiful rain garden to your yard,” Stoughton began. You’ll learn how to assess your property for the best rain garden location and size, how to choose the right plants, and how to construct and maintain your rain garden.”
There are at least four good reasons to install rain gardens, Stoughton said. Rain gardens help to:
- Reduce Combined Sewer Outflows – “With less rain runoff, it helps keep sewage from being dumped into streams.”
- Provide a good environment for fish – “Good urban gardening helps promote and maintain healthy streams.”
- Reduce taxes – “Rain gardens help reduce the need for new stormwater-handling infrastructure.”
- Improve aesthetics – “These are much prettier than pipes and sewers – they help beautify your community.”
In her well-illustrated presentation, Candace Stoughton shows exactly how and why to install and use rain gardens.
Rain garden basics
By its design and subsequent plant selection, a rain garden takes advantage of rainfall and stormwater runoff. This kind of garden is designed to thrive with lots of moisture, and a high concentrations of nutrients.
While a rain garden may look like any other, below its surface it mimics the hydrologic action of a healthy forest – it “cleans” and reduces the rate that rain runoff penetrates into soil or an open area. The plans help reduce sediments, and also the nitrogen and phosphorus levels, in otherwise untreated stormwater.
Class members learned rain gardens can be either drained or self-contained. Both types of rain gardens are used to improve stormwater quality, reduce runoff volumes, and generally facilitate infiltration of cleaned water.
During the morning-long class, Stoughton used many illustrations that detail how to design and construct a rain garden – and how they look when completed.
Improper placement can cause flooding
Class members appeared to enjoy the many garden-planning ideas, suggestions and how-to instructions that Stoughton provided.
She helped would-be rain-gardeners to avoid pitfalls as well. “The biggest mistake: putting your rain garden too close to a building’s foundation,” warned Stoughton. “Water can seep from the rain garden into your basement or lower spaces. The minimum distance from a foundation should be at least six feet.”
Stoughton recounts the benefits rain gardens provide.
People attend for many reasons
After the class, we asked Stoughton what reasons people give for coming to her introductory class.
“Most are gardeners, who want to learn the latest in gardening,” she said. “This is a new, hot, functional trend in gardening and protecting streams in our watershed.”
Others come, Stoughton confided, because a city or county government has required them to install a rain garden to help reduce stormwater runoff that would otherwise flow into the sewer system. “They leave the class thinking, ‘Now that I understand it, this makes so much sense’.”
Learn more …
Stoughton teaches “Rain Garden 101”, and shares her expertise in low-impact development methods that protect streams and rivers from urban storm water runoff in other classes and seminars throughout the year.
To find the location of her next class, e-mail her at candace@emswcd.org, or call (503) 935-5368. For more information about the East Multnomah County Soil and Water Conservation District, check their web site by CLICKING HERE.
© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
Although Portland Police Bureau Chief Rosie Sizer had just been invited to speak about her bureau’s budget – neighbors spent most of that meeting grilling homicide detectives about the trio of murders in November. See what Sizer revealed about police cutbacks in our future …
The vice chair of the Centennial Community Association, Ron Clemenson, says the trio of murders has neighbors on edge.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
At the East Precinct Citizens Advisory Forum on December 2, Ronald Clemenson, Vice Chair of the Centennial Community Association, didn’t mince words as he summed up the feelings expressed by many of the 80 neighbors packed into the room.
“We are very concerned about what’s going on in the neighborhood,” Clemenson said. “We’ve had three homicides in three weeks, within six blocks of one another. This is not good. A lot of people are worried, in our neighborhood. That’s why we’re here at this meeting.”
Clemenson has a demonstrated interest in outer East Portland public safety issues. He attends the monthly precinct forums, works diligently in his neighborhood association on livability issues – and, earlier this year, organized a Public Safety Forum attended by 120 concerned citizens.
During this meeting, a neighbor brought up that March 11 forum, at which a dozen Portland and Gresham city and Multnomah County elected and appointed officials testified how their combined efforts have reduced crime problems in the area – while citizens attending disagreed with the rosy picture the bureaucrats painted. (CLICK HERE to read our coverage of the Spring Public Safety Forum.)
November’s trio of murders
- On Friday, November 14, East Precinct officers found the lifeless body of 37-year-old Amatha Mendive behind a strip mall in the 16100 block of SE Stark Street. “Immediately upon arrival, officers observed signs of homicidal violence to the victim’s body, and called Homicide Detectives to conduct an investigation,” reported Portland Police Bureau’s Sgt. Brian Schmautz.
- Update: Suspects identified (see below) On Sunday, November 23, officers found the body of 35-year-old Abel Delgado-Morales inside an apartment in the 15800 block of SE Stark Street, after responding to a call of a reported shooting. An autopsy determined that the victim died of multiple gunshot wounds. “Based on information from witnesses, investigators believe the victim was at the residence visiting friends when a suspect or suspects arrived at the residence, confronted the victim, and shot him,” Schmautz noted.
- On Saturday, November 29, 54-year-old Roland Jackson Dir was found dead in a home in the 500 block of SE 155th Avenue. “The Multnomah County Medical Examiner determined that Dir died of Homicidal Violence,” Schmautz said. “For investigative reasons, detectives are withholding specific information about the cause of death.”
Anyone with information about any of these homicides is asked to call Detective Steve Ober at (503) 823-4033 or Detective Jim McCausland at (503) 823-0449.
Sergeant Rich Austria and Commander John Eckhart from the Portland Police Bureau Homicide Division talk about the three homicides in outer East Portland.
Neighborhood not a target
As the meeting began, Portland Police Bureau (PPB) East Precinct Commander, Michael Crebs, introduced Chief Rosie Sizer. He then turned the program over to Sergeant Rich Austria, who was joined by Commander John Eckhart from the Portland Police Bureau’s Homicide Division.
“I know that there are concerns about the recent homicides that have occurred in the neighborhood,” Austria began. “There’s not a lot I can share about the investigation, for obvious reasons – but we don’t believe, based on information that we have, that [murderers] are targeting your neighborhood specifically.”
These homicides aren’t random acts of violence, Austria added.
No common suspects identified
Austria continued, saying he didn’t believe there was one common suspect associated with all three murders. “We have leads in all three investigations that we’re following.”
Unless there is an eyewitness to a murder, Austria detectives start by determining with whom victim was associated.
“In about 85% of homicides, victims know their suspects in some fashion,” the detective continued. “It could be by association – people they know who are prone to violence. Or, it is lifestyle-related – hanging out with people who are involved in crime, drugs, and prostitution, or are involved in domestic violence.”
Working from the victim “outward”, detectives talk with family members, friends and neighbors, building up a “picture” of the victim and their life.
“I come here to solicit your help,” requested Austria. “Share with us information; or call Crime Stoppers if you want to be anonymous.”
The Community Room at East Precinct was filled to overflowing as concerned citizens asked for answers regarding the serious crimes in their neighborhoods.
Questions and Answers
Q Are the murders gang related?
A “No, We don’t have history of [the victims] being involved in gangs. But there is a lot of gang activity in the area,” Austria replied.
Q A neighbor said his family lives within the “murder triangle” and he was concerned about unsupervised kids coming and going to school. “Are our kids safe?” he asked.
A “We don’t have any information that anyone is targeting children,” Austria said.
Q “Wouldn’t increased police presence deter people from committing serious crimes, like murders?” a neighbor asked.
A “Many murders, including at least one of these,” replied Austria, “occurred in a home or apartment. Even if police were patrolling every street, there would be no way for them to know what is happening inside homes.”
Centennial neighborhood landlord Moe Farhoud told detectives, Commander Crebs and Chief Rosie Sizer, “We need action, and we need it now.”
Apartment owner calls for action
“I own apartment complexes from 122nd Avenue out to 190th Avenue,” said Centennial neighborhood landlord Moe Farhoud, as he stood up to address the officials in the room.
“My tenants are calling my office and complaining. Some want to move out, others are concerned about being safe. We need action, and we need it now.”
Commander Crebs replied, “If your tenants, or anyone, sees suspicious activities, they need to call us. Also, check into our Enhanced Safety Properties program.”
Farhoud shot back, “Just talking doesn’t help. We need the Mayor here tonight. We need action. We need to do something.”
East Precinct Commander Michael Crebs responds to neighbors about their concerns regarding the murders by providing factual information.
“What kind of action?” asked Crebs.
Other landlords need to do their homework when it comes to accepting tenants, Farhoud replied. “We have vacancies; we turn down people who are no good. We need to enforce not renting to bad people.”
To this Crebs stated, “We can’t and don’t enforce who lives where.”
Complains of high density, low income housing
A woman spoke up, sharing her concern: “You, sir, have tenants who can move out. I own my house and I can’t move away. The way things are, I can’t even sell it. There is way too much low-income housing concentrated in the area.”
Crebs noted that the East Portland Action Plan is “looking at the problems created by high density” in the area.
Police Chief Rosie Sizer says her bureau’s budget may be cut – once again.
Chief warns of coming budget cuts
A neighbor complained that an officer told him only two police cruisers patrol his neighborhood. “I live in the middle of this, and I’m concerned.”
Chief Sizer stepped and said, “What I came to talk about was preempted by the importance of the recent homicides. Our bureau’s budget has a direct effect on the number of officers that are on the street – the budget issue is important.”
The police bureau has a $150 million budget, Sizer reported. “Yes, we are considered ‘expensive’. We respond to calls from you, restore order, and make investigations. And, we provide services to help prevent crime.”
Chief bemoans repeated cuts
Sizer shared that the Police Bureau’s budget was “repeatedly cut” during the 1990s, and again at the turn of the century. “We’re in another financial downturn. We’ve been asked to provide [the Portland City Council] with a 2% cut – that’s a $3.5 million reduction; and a 5% cut – a $7 million decrease.”
Within a community budget discussion on December 1, Sizer said citizens worked with representatives of the Police Bureau by ranking 100 police programs from most to least important. “We want to make sure we’re not cutting core, versus non-core, functions. We’re looking at how we can restructure. I don’t see we will emerge unscathed.”
Clemenson floats a petition
After the meeting, Clemenson said he was concerned – very concerned – about impending Police Bureau budget cuts. “Public safety is our number one priority; our number one consideration.”
Holding up a petition he’d circulated during the meeting bearing about 70 signatures, Clemenson said, “It’s addressed to Portland City Commissioner Dan Saltzman, but it applies to all of the commissioners. We have to get the attention of the officials controlling the purse strings. We want our Police Bureau to be fully staffed; to do that, they need the support of the City Council.”
Update:
A Multnomah County Circuit Court Judge has issued arrest warrants for 21-year-old Cristobel Medrano-Alvarado and 21-year-old Jose Santiago Carvajal-Mota in connection with the shooting death of Delgado-Morales. The warrants charge both suspects with one count of Aggravated Murder. The suspects were identified through the ongoing investigation. Both suspects are considered armed and dangerous.
© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
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