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 why many folks came for the party –
and stayed to see the game …
He’s the “Parkrose Can Man” – he runs returnable container drives that support Parkrose school activities the first Saturday morning of each month at Parkrose Middle School. It’s Dave Luce, who prepares to enjoy the buffet dinner served at the Tailgate Party.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
School spirit was running high on September 5 at Parkrose High School, before the Parkrose Bronco’s football team took on their first opponents of the year.
In addition to family and friends supporting the team’s first outing, about 100 community members and school district supporters also gathered near the athletic field for the annual “Tailgate Dinner.”
Jon Taylor, Parkrose High’s offensive coordinator for the Broncos football team, enjoys the evening with event organizer Mary Larson, Principal Roy Reynolds, and District Superintendent Dr. Karen Fischer Gray.
“Each year, we sell tickets to this fund raiser at our annual education foundation auction,” explained event coordinator Mary Larson.
“The district office administrators sponsor this evening’s event. The money we raise goes directly to Parkrose Education Foundation,” Larson continued. “The funds help supplement supplies, services, and programs for the district.”
For example, the foundation, we learned, has purchased playground equipment and Parkrose Middle School band instruments. “We’re estimating that were serving a hundred people tonight, and will raise about $2,500,” she added.
Jeff Vigue and Julie Frangipani from Chartwell School Dining Services do a masterful job grilling up steaks and chicken. Asked how where he trained to be a chef, Vigue smiled and replied, “Actually, I’m the sales account representative.”
Gourmet three-course dinner served
The meal, laid out buffet style, was a complete dinner – not just weenies, nachos and popcorn. Under canopies, guests sat at cloth-covered tables decorated in the school’s colors.
The feast started off with a platter of grilled vegetables and fresh green salad. The entrees were freshly-barbequed lean, tender, and perfectly-cooked steak and succulent chicken, accompanied by freshly-mashed potatoes and fresh corn-on-the-cob. Large slices of strawberry-covered cheesecake wrapped up the meal.
Everyone with whom we spoke characterized the repast as delightfully toothsome, and gave kudos to the foodservice staff and volunteer servers.
The Parkrose High Cheer Squad teaches folks at the Tailgate Dinner a traditional cheer.
Connecting with the community
The high school’s Principal, Roy Reynolds, smiled as he looked over the lively setting.
“It’s important that this event raises money for a good cause. But that’s secondary to providing a connection between our schools and our community and extended communities,” commented Reynolds.
Kathy Keim-Robinson, director of student services at the Parkrose School District, helps Dr. Gray sell Score Pool slots.
Calls football a ‘marquee sport’
“I’m absolutely delighted to see the support we’re getting this year,” Parkrose School District Superintendent Dr. Karen Fischer Gray told us, sitting down for a moment after she finished selling mid- and end-game score pool raffle.
“I love seeing so many people wearing their green Parkrose T-shirts, learning a cheer from the Parkrose Cheer Squad, and meeting guests from our opposing team from The Dalles. Our players and coaches look sharp in their uniforms – its like were serious and were ready to win.”
The Broncos get last minute instructions from their coaches before the game.
Ready, HIKE! The Broncos defend on a second down.
The Parkrose Cheer Squad works up the fans in the stands.
Gray said she’s encouraged the school to build their football program. “There are two main ‘marquee sports’ – football and basketball. People love to go to football games; it brings them together, and promotes a culture of working together.”
The energy these activities can engender in a community can’t be underestimated, Gray added. “It’s more than the sport itself; it’s more than the score. But, winning would be great!”
Broncos footballers put the big hustle on the visiting team from The Dalles.
Perhaps next game …
By game time, fans started filling the grandstand, as the Parkrose High Band played rousing tunes. The Cheer Squad changed, danced, and one young squad member demonstrated this athletic prowess by doing backward handsprings the length of the stadium.
As the sun lowered in the sky, giving Mt. Hood an alpenglow in the distance, the non-conference game against The Dalles High School team kicked off.
Although Parkrose High put up a valiant effort, they were bested by the visitors 32 to 6. Why not check in, under the Friday night lights, and cheer on this hardworking team next week?
© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
See how members of the Gateway Area Business Association honored public safety workers and citizens killed in the 2001 terrorist attacks …
Standing before Portland Fire & Rescue Engine 30 are Third Battalion Chief Mark Gift; Station 30 firefighters Erin Spens, David Glenn, Matt Phillips and Lt. Steve Bregman on their way to the 9/11 memorial service held at 111th Square.
Story by Watford Reed with David F. Ashton; David F. Ashton photos
Beneath a gigantic American flag, members of the Gateway Area Business Association memorialized the 3,000 men and women killed in the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001.
With them were representatives from Portland Fire & Rescue, Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office and Portland Police Bureau; invited to remember the sacrifice of their fellow workers in rescue attempts at the World Trade Center buildings and at the Pentagon in Washington, DC.
A color guard made up of Gateway Keystone Kops and members of Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 4248 hoist Old Glory into the summer sky.
Patricia Labat sings “The Star Spangled Banner” and “God Bless America” as the flag at 111th Square is raised.
Bugler George Hager a member of VFW Post 2807 and at an associate member of the Submarine Veterans of World War II, plays taps as the flag is lowered to half staff in memory of the 9/11 dead.
The opening ceremony is punctuated by a gun salute by the Honor Guard from the Veterans of Foreign Wars.
Oregon Speaker of the House Jeff Merkley takes time from his political campaign to come by and honor the men and women who serve the community in their public safety positions.
Dining, interestingly enough, on Mexican-style of food of beans, rice and enchiladas, members of GABA introduced fire fighters, sheriff’s deputies and police officers, and praised their work for helping others.
With no other formal program, members lunched while GABA’s secretary, Fred Sanchez, the owner of 111th Square, interviewed members with a roving microphone.
Seated with Portland City Council candidate Amanda Fritz, Portland Police Bureau Officer Scott Robertson and Officer Rob Slyter are introduced by Joe Rossi.
Public safety representatives speak out
“It’s wonderful to be appreciated,” said Portland Police Bureau East Precinct Commander Michael Crebs.
“It’s a good feeling to be appreciated by the community we serve,” added deputy Heidi Nelson of the Multnomah County Sheriff’s office.
Belatedly receiving their award from the May GABA Fun-O-Rama parade, representing the Multnomah County Sheriff’s office are Deputies Israel Chinn, Rachael Wheeler, Heidi Nelson and Steven Gilliam.
Brady Van Dyne, veteran of the Korean War and a member of the VFW honor group, said he felt honored to memorialized the lost of September 11 and implied that it is ahead of honoring one of his veteran comrades.
“It’s good to take time to remember those we’ve lost and appreciate the freedoms we have,” said Battalion Chief Mark Gift.
Event has special meaning for a firefighter
“This date, today, has tremendous significance for firefighters,” Portland Fire & Rescue Lt. Steve Bregman of Station 30 told us.
“We lost 343 fellow firefighters at the trade centers in New York City. And today, we think of all of those working in public safety – all willing to risk their lives. On this day, we also remember the civilians that died at the Trade Center Towers, in Pennsylvania, and at the Pentagon.”
Lowering his eyes, and his voice, Bregman continued, “On a personal note, I lost a cousin at the Towers. It hits home both professionally and personally to me. Thus, this event here today is well taken. We appreciate being able to partake with the community, be involved in this memorial and interacting with people the people we serve.”
© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
See how, for the first time, kids in this outer East Portland neighborhood got free backpacks filled with school supplies …
Ricardo Becerril, senior project manager with LCG Pence Construction, shows all of the supplies their company stuffed into backpacks to be given to all Lent School students.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
You’ve seen stories telling how organizations have “adopted” schools, purchasing back-to-school supplies for students. But, until this year, Lent School has languished – no sponsors meant no backpacks.
Construction firm steps up
“This is the first year of a partnership between LCG Pence Construction and Lent School,” said Gayle Kellman, Executive Director of Schoolhouse Supplies, the nonprofit organization that coordinates the backpack giveaways.
“This is one of the highest-need schools in all of Portland Public Schools,” Kellman explained. “We have sought to find a sponsor year after year, but haven’t succeeded until LCG Pence stepped up. This is an extra exciting day for us. We hope to have this partnership continue year after year.”
Company connection with school
Surrounded by company staff members, Ricardo Becerril, senior project manager with LCG Pence Construction, was beaming with a big smile as he watched the young students file into the school’s auditorium.
“I manage our school construction division,” Becerril said, “so this event is near and dear to me. We look for opportunities for our company and our employees, to not only work for schools and earn a profit from them – but also to give back to the school districts for which we work.”
Becerril reminded us that their company was chosen for the fire restoration project at the school about five years ago, as he showed us what was in the backpacks: Notebooks, folders, a pouch with pencils, pens, and markers – all the school supplies one would need to start the year as a young scholar.
Principal Linda Ralley says the value of this sponsor’s contribution can’t be overestimated.
Principal praises donation
Looking exuberant with joy was the school’s Principal, Linda Ralley.
“This wonderful business is showing it understands that children in schools are our future citizens,” lauded Ralley. “It shows they’re paying attention to families and youngsters here in the outer east Portland, who face rising costs for housing, fuel, food – and school supplies. We’re overjoyed!”
The value of this particular contribution by their new partner is about a $27,000, Ralley told us. “That is significant; the value can’t be overestimated. This is This is really, really terrific.”
Students express gratitude
As the kids settled down, Ralley began, “This is a special assembly. On the very first day of school, in the very first hour of school this year, we get to give you something. Every student is going to get a backpack, filled with supplies, to help you achieve. Let the volunteers from our sponsors, LCG Pence Construction, know you appreciate this gift.”
Enthusiastic applause spread across the gathered assembly. Row by row, students lined up and eagerly clutched their gift.
Lent School eighth-graders Audrey Sturgeon and Kayla Roysdon thank Ricardo Becerril for their backpacks and school supplies.
“Our school doesn’t have a lot of money for providing supplies,” said eighth-grader Audrey Sturgeon, “nor do many of our parents. I really appreciate the backpack.”
Her classmate, Kayla Roysdon, added, “It’s really great that a company would be so thoughtful as to donate these supplies. I definitely think it’ll help us out. Our parents won’t have to be stressed out about spending a lot of money on school supplies. I think it’s wonderful.”
You can help
“People can help Schoolhouse Supplies all year long by volunteering, donating school supplies and cash donations,” Kellman mentioned. “The best place to start is by visiting our web site.”
We’ll take you there! Simply CLICK HERE!
© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
You haven’t missed them all! Look here and discover
the great line-up of acts you’ll see on Sunday …
Henry Weeks and Moggy Vanderkin play and sing Americana style music at the first Lents Music in the Park concert on September 7.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Carrying a folk-music theme, this Lents Music in the Park series is pleasing folks with top musicians.
This concert series runs through September. This year, it’s produced in cooperation with the Portland FolkMusic Society.
On September 7, folks who came by the Lents Park Gazebo (SE 92nd Avenue & Holgate Boulevard) at 3:00 p.m. were treated to an all-star lineup, including “River City Folk” radio show host and musician Tom May. Sharing the stage will be Mary Flower, considered one of the finest proponents of acoustic blues in the country; LynnAnn Hyde and Stu Kinzel, “guardians of traditional Acoustic Blues”; and the Ragtime music of Henry and Moggy.
Lents Neighborhood Association chair Dewey Akers introduces the concert series acts in Lents Park.
Still more great music to come
The series continues on Sunday, September 14 from 3 p.m. until 6 p.m.
Enjoy the sounds of Woody Guthrie Tribute Concert. Woody Guthrie lived in Lents while he wrote for the BPA in 1941. Also, enjoy The Wanderers – Murlin Allen, Ken Vigil, Joe Seamons; and Renegade Minstrels.
Follow the music to the Lents Park Gazebo, SE 92nd Ave & Holgate Blvd. this Sunday!
© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
See why Mayor Tom Potter visited Parkrose’s Sacramento Elementary School on the first day of school; we’ll even tell you what was on the menu …
Seated with members of Mrs. Steinfeld’s 3rd Grade Class at Sacramento Elementary School, Portland Mayor Tom Potter hears why his tablemates are excited about returning to school.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
As the school bells rang the day after Labor Day, kids all across East Portland headed back to school.
On the first day at Sacramento Elementary School, in the Parkrose School District, a special visitor came to welcome the school’s 430 students and their parents to the new term – Portland Mayor Tom Potter.
Parkrose School District Superintendent Dr. Karen Fischer Gray welcomes Mayor Tom Potter and Karin Hansen to the first day of school at Sacramento Elementary School.
Potter welcomed by Parkrose Schools’ Superintendent
Waiting at the school was Parkrose School District Superintendent Dr. Karen Fischer Gray. “The beginning of the new school year is always an exciting time for us. It’s wonderful to see the kids, and their moms and dads dropping them off at school. Having Mayor Potter here is a real privilege.”
Gray noted that Potter has attended visited Parkrose schools in the past. “It means a lot to have the Mayor here,” she told us. “It means that he has his eyes on outer east Portland, and is paying attention to this area.”
Mayor Potter greets third-grader Jacey in Mrs. Steinfeld’s class.
Potter emphasizes importance of education
“It’s great to be here on the first day of school,” Potter commented as we walked into the school. “Each year I select a different area of Portland to visit and welcome children back to school.”
Asked why he took time to breakfast with outer East Portland youngsters, the Mayor replied, “It’s important for elected officials to get out and show the community that we support education.”
“Civic leaders have a duty to make sure that children succeed”, Potter added. “By coming here this morning, it demonstrates my commitment to the value of providing a good education for all the children in Portland.”
Mayor Potter gets an enthusiastic greeting from Sacramento Elementary School’s principal, Stevie Blakely.
Education to include ballroom dancing
As we checked in with the school’s Principal, Stevie Blakely, we asked if there were any new programs this year at Sacramento Elementary.
“We’re adding a ballroom dancing program,” Blakely told us. “All of our fifth-graders, and their teachers, will be learning to dance.”
Ballroom-style dancing provides multiple benefits, the Principal explained. “First, it’s a good form – perhaps the best way – of exercising your body. And, it also helps exercise your brain. It helps children learn rhythm, math, and counting. Music is all built on mathematics.”
In addition to the dance classes, Blakely said students who so desire can enter a city-wide dance contest, competing against students from four other schools in the city, scheduled for next spring.
Mayor Potter charms his breakfast companions. His Honor dined lightly on honey graham crackers and cold milk.
Focus on fitness
“We’re also involved in a program called Healthy Schools; it’s associated with the Bill Clinton foundation,” Blakeley added. “We’re working on increasing exercise programs and providing health educational awareness to help our students learn how to take care of their bodies, as well as their minds.”
“The school is looking at ways to continue to provide better food choices,” she concluded. “We’re doing our best to curb juvenile diabetes.”
© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
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
John Bier says he’s ready to run a school that serves more students than the entire population of his hometown. See what changes he plans – and what will stay the same – at the home of the Scots …
Although John Bier is David Douglas High School’s new Principal, he’s not new to the school – he joined the Scots’ staff in 1990.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Whether or not they know it, the 850 freshmen gathering in the David Douglas High School (DDHS) gymnasium on orientation day, September 2, had something in common with John Bier (as he went on to explain).
The 9th graders were starting their high school career; Bier was starting in his new role as principal of one of the area’s largest schools.
As we sat in the newly-rearranged Principal’s office at DDHS – one business day before school started – Bier told about his background, his most important duties, and how he hopes to be remembered.
“The school is twice as big as the total population of my home town,” Bier began. “The faculty and staff here at David Douglas number more than the entire high school population where I grew up – in Heppner, Oregon.”
‘Hooked’ on David Douglas
Bier says he started his career, now spanning 23 years, as an educator in Prineville, then in Molalla, as a teacher and sports coach.
Then, during the ’89-’90 school year, Bier came to David Douglas. “I clearly remember the Principal, Ray Utz, telling me when I was hired, ‘David Douglas is a special place. You may think you’re only going to be here for a couple of years and then move on. But the school is going to get its hooks into you, and you’ll be here for awhile.’ I thought to myself, ‘Sure, right! …’ But, here I am, 19 years later, having served as an administrator, attendance coordinator, biology teacher, football coach.”
Bier says his job is to facilitate teachers’ stepping out of their “comfort zone” when developing new ways to help their students learn.
Questions and answers
Q Have you gone to “principal school”?
A “I’ve taken 18 extra credits of advanced education in school administration. I’m a lifelong learner.”
Q What do you see as your chief tasks as Principal?
A “Keeping up to date on current developments in education, and helping our teachers keep abreast of those trends. Also, it’s affirming what our teachers are doing, and helping to remove obstacles so they can do their job better.”
The new Principal of Portland’s largest high school, John Bier, says the greatest asset of David Douglas is their teachers.
Q Is there a specific educational concept on which you’re asking teachers to focus this year?
A “It’s being willing to take good risks. Teachers ask students to ‘take risks’ every day – to step forward, out of their ‘comfort zone’. As educators, we need to show our kids we, too, are willing to take risks, and try new strategies in the classroom. It’s okay for them to be upfront and tell the students that they’re trying something new – and then, at the end of the class, to ask them if they connected with it and learned from it.”
Q What might “taking a risk” be like?
A “A risk might be for a teacher to ask another instructor in the same subject to audit their class and give them feedback. Another would be sitting down with several teachers of the same subject, to build a new educational unit together, test it in the classroom, and compare the results.”
Banners like these, posted around the school, remind students that “Scots’ Pride” is demonstrated by their positive behaviors.
Q Are you instituting any new school-wide programs this year?
A “Yes, and we call it ‘Scots’ Pride’. We’re explicitly teaching our students positive behaviors, so they’ll know what’s expected of them when they’re in the classroom, in the lunchroom, or walking down the halls. Part of this is active positive behavior support – catching kids doing the ‘right thing’ and letting them know about it. We believe it will help make a positive shift in our school’s culture.”
Q Have you introduced new ways for parents to become more involved with the school?
A “We appreciate the support we get from parents in our athletics and arts programs. And, we’re exploring new ways for a wider variety of community members to get involved with David Douglas.”
Q On what assets do you hope to build?
A David Douglas has got a long tradition of excellence in academics and the arts, of which I’m fully aware. Without hesitation, I say that we have the finest teaching staff in the State of Oregon which works in an atmosphere in which they can thrive. With this, there’s no limit to where we can go with our kids.”
Turf’s up! Bier told us to take a look at the new sports playing surface at Palermini Stadium. There we found the soccer team performing scrimmages.
Q You will, inevitably, be compared to past Principals John Herrington and Randy Hutchinson …
A “From Ray Utz – the man who hired me – there is a real legacy of outstanding Principals at here David Douglas. I have my own style; my own thoughts about the school’s administration. I think I’ve got a good grasp of what it takes to continue our tradition of excellence. In ten years, I hope my name will be spoken in the same sentence as theirs.”
© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
See what happens when the “Shop with a Cop” program pairs Portland Police officers with needy kids …
So, exactly what activities drew 250 neighbors to
this late-summer event? Take a look …
Event Coordinator Delores Wood lines up the parade at the Powellhurst/Gilbert Neighborhood Fair at Raymond Park.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Visiting neighborhood-sponsored activities is one of our summertime joys – and the Powellhurst/Gilbert Neighborhood Fair on August 16 was no exception.
More than a dozen organizations – ranging from Leach Botanical Gardens, to the Midway Business Association, to city and county agencies – provided information and goodies in tents set up in Raymond Park – on SE 118th Avenue, between SE Holgate Boulevard and SE Harold Street.
Lots of children’s activities kept the young ones occupied during the event.
Bill Dayton, owner of Pizza Baron and president of the area’s business association, brought pizza to the event for everyone to enjoy.
Entertaining and informing neighbors
“It’s important to hold events like this,” said organizer Delores Wood, “to provide some entertainment for people in our neighborhood. But another important reason for holding this fair is to be able to tell about the changes that are going on in our area.”
Wood said that, in exchange for putting residents’ names in a raffle, the Powellhurst/Gilbert Neighborhood Association was able to build their mailing list to help keep residents informed about meetings and neighborhood news.
“There’s so much change here,” Wood added. “It’s good to be informed about the new businesses moving in, street improvements, crosswalks, sidewalks, and other issues.”
More than a dozen booths provided information about businesses, community services and non-profit organizations to folks – in this, the largest of all outer East Portland neighborhoods.
Let the parade begin! The procession marched all around the perimeter of Raymond Park.
“It’s always fun to celebrate, no matter what the cause,” added Wood. Over the course of the day, even in the hot sultry weather, the event attracted some 250 neighbors.
This band – and their crew – provided great music throughout the afternoon at the Powellhurst/Gilbert Neighborhood Fair.
© 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
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