If you haven’t checked it out, look at the all the fresh fruit and produce coming to this market, located at Parkrose High School …

Market master Steve Voorhees, of Parkrose Farmers Market, samples some of the fresh cherries now on sale.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
The newest farmers market to open in outer East Portland – the Parkrose Farmers Market – has only been open for 12 days now.

So says market master, Steve Voorhees, who adds, “Of course, we’re only open on Saturdays!”

While the market got off to a good start, attendance briefly lagged, Voorhees tells us, “due to the poor early growing season. Our numbers are now strong.”

Kevin Herbst and Dru Gorman of Maryhill Orchards urge market visitors to sample their luscious fruits.

Halfway through new season
Now that crops are coming in, the number of vendors – 47 of them, including nine produce growers – are up, and so are the number of shoppers.

“We’re about halfway through the season,” Voorhees says. “Right now, the hearty produce is starting to pick up now and the crowds are coming in. We hope for a thousand visitors today,” he predicts at the July 12 market.

Maria Theresa Gonzalez and Sandra Deleon are serving up corn and chicken tamales.

“We got the hearty produce coming in like the zucchini squash,” the market master grins. “We also are seeing radishes, and hopefully peppers will be coming in next week. Apricot season has started, and cherries are coming in – so are raspberries, blackberries and blueberries. Hermiston melons will be coming in soon, too.”

Jammin’ at the market are The Rewinders – they’re great and back in August playing a mix of folk, blues and rock music, from the 50s up to today’s music.

Entertainment – and contests – for all
In addition to produce and hand-made items, Voorhees mentions that the market continues to feature live music every week: Zimba Marimba play during the July 19 market he says. Plus, there are always children’s activities provided for the little shoppers that come along to the market.

“Be sure to mention this,” Voorhees interjects. “We’ve got our First Annual Baking Contest coming up on August 16. The entry is free, and you could win a $20 gift certificate if you bring the winning bread, cake or pie.”

You’ll need to be at the market at 10 a.m. to participate; the entries will be judged by Portland Fire & Rescue “calendar guys”, he adds.

Look for this sign at the Parkrose Festival & Cruise-in on August 2.

Market moves on August 2
For one Saturday only, on August 2, the market will move to downtown Parkrose, and will be part of the Parkrose Festival & Cruise-in. “Instead of competing with this great community event, we are becoming part of it. Come check out your local farmers market.”

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Wow! The only way to get a plot at this outer NE Portland Community Garden is to hope a farmer there drops out! See what all the fuss is about …

In the shadow of the “famous” Hazelwood water tower, Sharon Ducy tends her garden.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
At one time, the property under the Hazelwood water tower was a fenced-off field, sitting unused.

Then, along came Portland City Commissioner Randy Leonard, who transformed the unused Hazelwood Water building into the neighborhood coalition’s headquarters – and the field behind it into a park-like setting called the Hazelwood Hydro-Park.

Now, in cooperation with the Portland Water Bureau, Portland Parks & Recreation (PP&R) has opened a Community Garden on the site.

Leslie Pohl-Kosbau, Community Gardens Director for PP&R, and parks advocate Linda Robinson welcome people to the new Community Garden in Hazelwood.

Plots snapped up quickly
On opening day, a couple of weeks ago, we learned from PP&R Community Gardens Director Leslie Pohl-Kosbau that all of the 27 plots had already been spoken for.

“But, there may be some people who drop out during the year,” commented Pohl-Kosbau. “Some people move away; others find it’s too much work. Citywide, there over 750 people waiting to get into a community garden.”

Naomi Olin waters plants on her Community Garden Plot in Hazelwood.

Neighbor Naomi Olin said she lives close by, and likes the idea of a community garden. “It’s fun to be a part of the community, and share some involvement with of our neighbors.”

Sharon Ducy, who lives near Glendoveer Golf Course, said she was happy to have gotten one of the 27 20′ x 20′ garden plots. “I’m planting Swiss chard, green beans, tomatoes, cucumbers, potatoes, onions, peppers, and hot peppers. It’s much better to grow food yourself; I love to garden.”

Painting the new “barn” at the Hazelwood Community Garden is Darcy Cronin, Portland Water Bureau Facilities Services Specialist.

Pohl-Kosbau said the Parks Bureau is working to develop more capacity in outer East Portland. “We’re developing gardens; the demand is huge. It’s harder to find land in the inner core of the city.”

Find out more
If you want to get on the waiting list, or learn more, call PP&R (503) 823-1612.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

What will Randy Hutchinson be doing when school starts this fall? Find out the answer right here …

Standing in the doorway of his office at David Douglas High School for one of the last times, Randy Hutchinson says he looks forward to retirement.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
When the first school bell rings in September, life-long educator Randy Hutchinson says he hopes to be fishing. Hutchinson won’t be playing hooky, mind you; the life-long educator is retiring from his post as Principal at David Douglas High School.

“I started out in Portland Public Schools in 1974,” Hutchinson reminisces.  “From there I went to Sandy and stayed for 20 years before coming to David Douglas High in 1995. It’s been a great run; yes, it’s been a great run. And yes, I’m looking forward to retiring, very much so.”

At the end-of-school-year barbecue, more than 300 teachers and support staff members gather to give Hutchinson a warm send-off – and to have a great lunch! Volunteers from the David Douglas High Parent Teacher Student Association prepare and serve the meal.

Maintains high standards
We ask Hutchinson what he considers his greatest challenge to have been, moving from Vice Principal to the top spot at the school in the past few years.

“It was tough to follow in his footsteps of our school’s previous Principal, John Herrington, because he did such a phenomenal job,” Hutchinson replies. “Our entire staff has worked hard to make sure we maintain the high standards he set. We’ve continued to accomplish that. That’s why I feel good about retiring now.”

Shane Sykes, Melissa Meeks and Rachel Burggraff from the SE 122nd & Stark Street Burgerville restaurant are cooking up burgers for the event.

Providing meaningful education
Most significant, Hutchinson says, is that the school’s staff has stayed true to their mission and vision. “We’re headed in the right direction; we’ve maintained the integrity of our high academic standards and graduation requirements,” smiles Hutchinson.

“Our kids – 70% of whom are in poverty – 90% of them are going on to post-secondary education – that is phenomenal.” Additionally, Hutchinson says that Oregon higher education studies show that, of those David Douglas students who go into the universities, after a year and a half most of them are still in school. “These are all great numbers. We have a great staff and great kids – you can’t ask for more than that.”

Randy Hutchinson shares a light moment with staff members at the luncheon.

‘Kids are kids’
We ask Hutchinson if, during his educational career, he’s seen changes in schools over the years.

“Nothing has really changed,” Hutchinson replies. “Kids are kids. Trends come and go, but the reality is that they all need the same thing: Caring adults in their life, who push them further than they think they’re capable of going. I think we have a school full of teachers who are doing that well.”

Hutchinson gives DDHS PTSA outgoing president Karen Britton a plaque for her service. “I really appreciate all of your support over the years,” Britton says. “I’ll still be involved, and I look forward to helping out our new president coming on board. Please support the new president as you’ve supported me.”

Thanks community for support
Hutchinson goes on, saying that instead of being thanked for his service, it’s he who thanks the community for their support. We ask him what he’d like to say directly to the people in the school district.

“It’s been a real honor to serve you and your students,” responds Hutchinson.  “Our parents are incredibly supportive, and that makes all the difference in the world. It makes a difference when you call home and get a positive response; having the trust of the parents is very important. They reflect that by the way they vote [on bond issues]. It’s been a great place to be.”

As part of the farewell gathering, PTSA board member James Hollett gives Hutchison a wrapped and heavy gift. It turns out to be a brick – which will be engraved, and installed under the school’s flagpole in recognition of his service to the school.

Plans outdoor adventures
If Hutchinson puts as much energy into outdoor sports as he has into being a good Principal, fish and fowl in the region have much to fear.

“I love the out of doors,” Hutchinson tells us with a big smile. “I love to fish, and fly fishing is a definite passion of mine. And I love to do some game bird hunting.”

Hutchinson adds, “the best salmon runs in Alaska are in September and October – months that are critical to getting the school year off to a good start.” Those are months he’s never been able to fish in – and now he will!

New principal chosen
According to officials at the David Douglas School District, John Bier has been named the school’s new Principal. Bier has worked in the district for about 19 years, and was Vice Principal at David Douglas High.

Teachers and staff members sign the guest book (bottom left corner), and write their farewell messages to Hutchison, at the event.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

This band won’t be playing again until the fall – but here’s why you should watch for their listing in upcoming EastPDXNews.com Community Calendars …

Co-director Jay Burchak leads the mighty Portland Metro Concert Band in a rousing march.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
A couple of weeks ago, the parking lot outside of the Howard Horner Performing Arts Center on the campus of David Douglas High School was filling up, as patrons prepared to enjoy the Spring Concert of the Portland Metro Concert Band.

Now, the Metro Concert Band isn’t just a couple of musicians who toot tunes under a gazebo – this is a stage-sized ensemble of professional musicians who provide a first-class performance of widely varied musical selections.

This mighty band puts plays a wide variety of music very smartly.

At exactly 7:30 p.m., that summer evening, Co-director Jay Burchak raised his baton, and the concert was underway.

The program consisted of seven numbers. Under the baton of co-director Jay Burchak, the first half of the concert included a march by Jon Philip Sousa, a medley of Broadway tunes, a salute to big bands, and selections from the Broadway musical, “Oliver”.

During intermission, volunteers supply coffee and cookies as band and audience members mingle in the lobby.

Leading the band during the concert’s second half is co- Co-director Fev Pratt.

Co-director Fev Pratt took the baton after the intermission.

The band played six more selections, including portions of eight songs from the popular musical, “Annie”. The second half also featured the energetic Wagnerian classic, “Ride of the Valkyries”. This set closed with a fast-paced march that conjured up memories of attending the circus.

Although 250 people attended the concert, there was room for even more people to enjoy the fine music this great band presents.

It’s great to find terrific band music like this performed so well in the outer eastside of Portland. As word gets out about the band’s free shows – and the great refreshments during intermission – we suspect the auditorium might be filled at the next concert in the fall.

The Portland Metro Concert Band plays music of many genres, from the classics to popular show tunes.

Supported by donations
The band is supported by donations, including a grant from East Portland Neighbors, Inc., and by donations taken at the door.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

See what happened when 70 folks from the East Portland Chamber of Commerce drove, chipped, and putted their way around the golf course, as they networked …

Chamber president, Rich Sorem, presents the trophy bowl to the winners of the 2008 East Portland Chamber of Commerce Golf Tourney, “Team Gresham Ford” members Bob Avila and David Shepherd. Team members Gabe Godwin and Ian Heffeneider were not available for the photo.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
The 2008 East Portland Chamber of Commerce Golf Tourney is now in the history books – and it appeared as if all of those who participated came out winners.

The weather was perfect for a fine round of golf at the Colwood National Golf Course in outer East Portland, located at the southern edge of Portland International Airport.

Here, showing off the brand new Mustang offered in the “Hole-in-One” contest sponsored by Richard Kiely’s Home Run Graphics, are Gail Kiely of Home Run Graphics and Ginny Sorem.

On the course, players of all skill ranges drove, chipped – and some even pitched – the ball around the course. The spirit of fellowship seemed to be more important than the competition.

Sadly, no golfer made a hole-in-one in the contest sponsored by Home Run Graphics, but every player tried their best to drive home the brand new, red Mustang put up by Richard Kiely as a prize in the event someone did.

After the tournament, participants tuck into a hamburger lunch buffet at the clubhouse.

Fun continues after play
After the duffers returned from the links, they were served a buffet luncheon. At the same time, participants bid on a wide range of silent-auction items, ranging from “sports legends” posters to GPS systems.

And, thanks to the help of the Chamber volunteers who set up and ran the tournament and the after-party, – the raffle awards were made at a lighting-fast pace! These volunteers includedc Pam Olson, Holly Moss, David

Ashton, Richard Kiely, Margo Marver, Bob Rubin, JoLynn Walker, Kate Kaufman, Norm Rice, Tom Rich, Max Corona, Vicki Moser and Judy Leach.

Over 70 golfers, lots of volunteers, and good food and drinks made for a memorable day for all who came out to Colwood for the benefit event.

Tournament Photo Album

On the course, we greet the “NW Senior and Boomer News” team of Ray Padilla, Bob Buhrer, Clark Seeley, and Frank Ryan.

This group of happy golfers included Michael Sullivan of Capital M Lending, Dan LaGrande of LeGrande Public Relations, as well as Andre LaGrande, and Priscilla Hulin of “ATripTo.Com”.

The team of Casey Ryan, Dana Kelly, and Kirk Jenson from Riverview Community Bank are on the links, running a “Green for Green” contest – which supported Snow Cap Charities to the tune of $531.

Annette Leoni of Classique Floors (“The best little floor store in town”) addresses the ball, and sends it flying toward the pin.

Kevin (“not your ordinary bean counter”) Minkoff drives one down the fairway.

Steven Anderson of 1st Class Properties, Greg Langford of Home Team Inspection Services, Tom Kerr of Kerr Properties Inc., and Norm Rice, Realtor with 1st Class Properties, were all having a great round of golf.

Pam Olson of Farmer’s Insurance, and Ken Turner, EPCC Government Affairs Chair, work to total up the golf scores.

More than 70 golfers participated in the event – and then enjoyed lunch!

Cathy Grubb, the Chamber’s executive secretary, takes a break for lunch from a helping produce the tournament to grab some well-deserved lunch.

Coming in at second place: The team of Rich Sorem, Kevin Minkoff, Skip Hayzlett, and Elliott West.

Third-place winners: Roger Stopa, Chuck Garner, Lauren Hill, and Jiles Ogles – last years first-place awardees.

Thanks to the sponsors
The Chamber thanks major sponsors Adventist Medical Center, Home Run Graphics, and Warren Allen LLP; and sponsors Riverview Community Bank, NW Senior & Boomer News, Portland Tribune, Ricoh Business Solutions, Eastport Plaza, and Stewart & Tunno Integrated Data Systems.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

It’s genuine slice of Americana!
See why this community chooses to hold a parade
on Independence Day – and why …

Dillon “Spiderman” McCarthy is revving up his car, while Princess Kaylien Knecht gets ready to walk, in the City of Maywood Park’s July 4th Parade.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
For the tenth consecutive year, folks in the City of Maywood Park – located just northeast of the intersection of I-205 and I-84 – chose to celebrate Independence Day with a city-wide parade.

As the parade throng was forming, we spoke with the small city’s Mayor, Mark Hardie, who told us, “We enjoy celebrating freedom and the greatness of America here in our community.”

The parade, Hardie said, helps bring the community together. “Our neighborhood and city is all about families, and the parade is a family event. In it you’ll see kids, grandparents, dogs, and a World War II veteran who’s lived here for 55 years. The whole purpose of this is to get together and get to know our neighbors.”

Residents of the City of Maywood Park gather for their traditional annual community photograph, taken by resident and professional photographer Patrick Smith.

And they’re off! Marching to “Stars and Stripes Forever” – played over the PA system of a Multnomah County Sheriff’s patrol car – the celebrants take to the streets. On the right side of the photo, photog Smith is still up on the ladder!

“It looks like we’ll have about 150 folks in the parade today – we’ll probably have more watching from their front yards than we have marching,” Hardie observed.

The entire parade route took the revelers on a 12-block stroll through the wooded streets of their community. The parade ended up where it started, in the northwest corner of the city.

By the time the marching (actually, strolling) group returned, the order of the participants has scrambled – and no one seems to mind. Some participants dropped out along the route; others joined in, and finished the parade.

Byron Perry provides the motive force for the only float in this year’s parade …

… and we see Francesca Perry walking along side as Aidan Perry and Stella the Dog have the seats of honor as the stars-and-stripes decorated float — that their dad, Bryan is powering — cruises down the street.

The city’s Mayor, Mark Hardie, marches in the annual parade.

Says they’ll maintain their independence
After the parade, neighbors gathered at the park along side their main street – and about 250 folks tucked into a hosted barbeque. “It’s a fun, safe-and-sane way of celebrating the holiday,” noted Hardie.

We asked the mayor if there was any talk in Maywood Park City Council meetings about giving up cityhood and joining the City of Portland.

Hardie thought for a moment, smiled, and replied, “Not as long as I’m alive! Part of the independence we’re celebrating today is having our own city here in East Multnomah County. We’re very happy to be our own little city.”

Arnold Mutz, a World War II veteran – and 50-year resident of the City of Maywood Park – rides in the parade in full dress uniform.

In the parade, we are greeted by Jann Churchill and her four-legged friends, Winston and Yolsi.

Bringing up the rear are Portland Fire & Rescue’s Truck 2 and Engine 12.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

If you haven’t discovered this public park in outer East Portland, learn why it’s unique in the region …

Friends of Portland Memory Garden board members LuAnn Cook, Edie Polson, Julie Brown, Patty Cassidy (president), Nancy Chapman, and Eunice Noell-Waggoner pause for this photo during their recent open house event.

Story and photo by David F. Ashton
It’s not easy to spot the Portland Memory Garden, located on the east end of Ed Benedict Park, as one drives eastbound on SE Powell Boulevard past SE 104th Avenue. But, this park is unique in the greater Portland area – both in its design and its purpose.

“This garden is a very special place,” explained Patty Cassidy, President of Friends of Portland Memory Garden, “in that it was specifically designed to be a place where Alzheimer’s patients and people under memory care – and their caregivers – can come and get some respite.”

Cassidy said this public garden is a Portland Parks & Recreation facility, built with special design features to accommodate people with memory issues. “For example, the garden is designed in a circular pattern, so people can’t get lost. The Gateway building, when you walk in, is a way-finding point that can be easily seen from anywhere within the garden.”

This sign marks the entrance of the Portland Memory Garden, located on SE 104th Avenue, just south of SE Powell Boulevard.

A four-season garden
The garden, Cassidy told us, was started it in 1998, and was completed in 2001.

“This is a four-season garden,” Cassidy continued. “Every season, every day of the year, there are wonderful botanical features here to be experienced. Even in the darkest days of January, you can see twigs budding, greens sprouting, and even see some plants that are in bloom. We made this a garden that has rich and lush horticultural features.”

She pointed out “old-fashioned” perennials and annuals like roses and hydrangeas, carefully planted and tended in the park. “Many of these plants bring back pleasant memories for the patients who visit.”

Provides positive sensory experiences
More that just being a pretty place to visit, Cassidy added that the garden provides therapeutic value for people experiencing memory loss.

“It seems that most people have a ‘hired-wired connection’ to nature,” said the association president. “People do better when they’re in nature, and when they’re around natural things in the world. It gives people who were gardeners a space where they can enjoy the greenery, even if they can no longer handle the actual gardening work. It provides people with that kind of emotional and psychological support and comfort.”

Cassidy should know – she’s a professional horticultural therapy specialist, who got her required practicum clinical hours by helping to develop the garden!  Now, in addition to being the president of the Garden’s Friends group, she continues to help with events.

The Portland Memory Garden is designed as an enclosed circle, with features enabling people of all physical abilities to enjoy the safe, non-toxic greenery planted there.

Unique design welcomes all
Showing us how the raised flower beds gradually slope up, Cassidy said that this design allows people of all physical abilities to sit on the edge and admire the natural setting, or to do a little gardening.

“This has been designed to be a place that is ‘sensory’. We want people to be able to touch the plants and earth. We want visitors easily to see and smell the garden. The seating is such that you can sit anywhere and be close to the plants.”

Sandy Morehouse, with Rosewood Specialty Care in Hillsboro, talks with Helaine Gross, a horticultural therapy expert, at a “nature station” in the garden.

Caregivers laud park
Visiting the Garden when we toured the facility was Sandy Morehouse, who is with Rosewood Specialty Care in Hillsboro. For the patients with whom she works, she said, a visit to the park is well worth the drive.

“Being outside in the beauty of nature is calming and peaceful – especially for the residents with whom I work,” Morehouse said. “You can sit, and do absolutely nothing, and have an absolutely wonderful experience here.”

Kathy Schwabe, activity director at Pacific Gardens, talks with Lynn Wagner, a horticultural therapy student at Good Samaritan Hospital.

Pacific Gardens, the facility at which Kathy Schwabe is the activity director, is much closer – out on NE 172nd Avenue – and she also appreciates this garden.

“I’m glad it’s close by,” exclaimed Schwabe. “We’re an Alzheimers and dementia care community, and this is a safe place for us, because we can shut the gate and our residents are protected, as they stroll through the garden. Our residents can’t get lost or wander off.”

Enjoys putting feet in the grass
Schwabe was talking with Lynn Wagner, a horticultural therapy student at Good Samaritan Hospital, when we met them. Wagner added, “Another reason it’s safe is that none of the plants or materials in the garden are toxic. It’s a safe wonderful environment.”

In the center of the circular park is a large, round area of well-tended lawn. “We’ve had many residents who just lie down in the grass and enjoy the sunshine,” Schwabe reminisced. “Sometimes, we all take our shoes off. And, we’ve found that patients in wheelchairs enjoy being taken over into the grass, so they can dangle their feet in the soft, lush green grass of summer.”

One of the garden’s volunteers, Elaine Hesselman, fills the air with beautiful music, as she plays the harp for visitors.

Labor of love for many volunteers
After soaking up the bucolic atmosphere, the Friends group president told us that the garden is maintained with 95% volunteer effort. “There’re only eight hours a month of paid gardening by Portland Parks – they help us with heavy hauling and lawn mowing,” observed Cassidy. “We maintain the beds, and do all the pruning and padding and deadheading. This is a very hands-on groomed facility. I’d say there are about 50 volunteer-hours spent here every month, among all of our garden teams.”

Volunteers also help stage events and enrichment activities – for free – on an on-call basis, Cassidy mentioned. “All the facilities need to do is just transport their patients here.”

Learn more here
If you’d like to learn more – or perhaps volunteer – at the Portland Memory Garden, call the organization at (503) 239-9174.

Or, see a map and learn more. Visit the Portland Parks & Recreation web site, CLICK HERE.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

If your vehicle is still in your driveway tomorrow morning, it could be because these two hard-working officers put away the crooks that were stealing cars in your area last year …

Flanking Portland Police Bureau Chief Rosie Sizer are East Precinct Achievement Medal winners Officer Phillip Ken and Officer Scott McCollister.

Story and photo by David F. Ashton
In early 2007, auto theft was at an all time high in outer East Portland.

Portland Police East Precinct Officers Scott McCollister and Phillip Kent decided to put a stop to the thieving. And, just a few days ago, in a ceremony at the David Douglas High School Horner Performing Arts Center – they were awarded for doing just that.

Catching car crooks – part time
Between their calls for service, McCollister and Kent started working on vehicle theft cases. They ran down leads and talked to victims and witnesses.

Attempting follow-up and surveillance in their “downtime” proved to be a difficult task, so the officers developed a plan to work a “mini-auto-theft detail” within the precinct.

Detail puts breaks on thefts
In May 2007, the two began working the East Precinct Auto Theft Detail full time. Their work to combat auto theft made a significant impact. At the time, auto theft in East Precinct was 41% higher than the corresponding period in the previous year. By December of 2007, the auto theft rate for East Precinct had dropped by 8%.

During their time in the detail, Officers McCollister and Kent recovered 153 stolen vehicles, and made 41 arrests for Unauthorized Use of a Motor Vehicle/Possession of a Stolen Motor Vehicle. They also arrested 51 other people on warrants or other charges, and recovered two guns.

In recognition of their leadership, and commitment to reducing auto theft crimes, Officer Scott McCollister and Officer Phillip Kent were awarded the Portland Police Bureau Achievement Medal at the ceremony.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

See why Lents area residents and their friends gathered for dinner at the New Copper Penny for this special event …

Roger Jones and Nancy Chapin are being checked in by Jess Laventall and Dewey Akers as the Annual Lents Summer Concert Series Benefit Dinner gets underway at the New Copper Penny restaurant.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
When we saw folks streaming into the New Copper Penny Pantheon Ballroom on SE 92nd Avenue between SE Foster Road and SE Woodstock Boulevard a couple of weeks ago, we knew it was time, once again, for the annual benefit – confirmed by the greeting we received.

“Welcome to our Lents Summer Concert Series Benefit Dinner,” smiled Dewey Akers, Lents Neighborhood Association Chair.

“This is a fundraiser for our music series,” explained Akers. “It’s going to be fabulous this year – centered both on American folk music and world folk music.”

Judy Welch, former Lents Neighborhood Chair and community supporter, and John Tzantarmas manager of the New Copper Penny, pause for a moment.

Woody Guthrie commemorated
One weekend of the August music series will be devoted to Woody Guthrie. “A lot of people don’t know it, but he was a Lents resident when he wrote for the Bureau of Public Works Administration,” Akers explained. “Two other events will be presenting some tremendous folk artists. What we want to do is create a ‘folk festival’ – a music series in a park venue, unique in Portland.”

This annual benefit dinner is also a fundraiser for upcoming Lents Founders Day events. Additionally, some of the funds will support the neighborhood’s “Movies in the Park”, and support live entertainment at the Lents International Farmers Market.

Karen Young, executive director of Leach Botanical Garden, and Metro Counselor Robert Liberty come to lend their support for this “I Love Lents” community event.

Event strengthens community bonds
The host of the event, John Tzantarmas – who, along with his father, owns the venerated New Copper Penny Restaurant – said he enjoys putting on the event.

“I think it’s great,” Tzantarmas beamed. “Every time we get the neighborhood together, it’s a good thing. Events like this bring neighbors together to talk with one another. Neighbors can talk with business people, and mingle with our community partners as well.”

We asked why business owners host community events like this. Tzantarmas replied, “In our business, we are part of the community; we’ve been here for 35 years and seen it grow and change. We’re in the hospitality business, and we like helping out the community that has supported us for so long.”

Ready to feast on a great three-course dinner, prepared for the benefit by the New Copper Penny Restaurant, is Leslie Hildula and Erika Miller.

Dinner and a show
After being served a three-course dinner, attendees were serenaded by folk musicians, and were awarded raffle prizes provided by local business people.

Metro Counselor Robert Liberty commented at the benefit, “I’m delighted to attend; I haven’t been an event quite like this before. This is a good sign of a healthy community. Having events like this shows real support by and for the community. Plus it’s just fun.”

Look for information regarding the Lents concerts, movies, and Founder’s Day activities in our August, 2008, Community calendar. Or, for more information online, CLICK HERE.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Are the aches and pains of getting older getting you down? See what this Adventist Medical Center professional prescribes – and it isn’t more pills …

Health educator Sherrie Evenson demonstrates how simple “resistance bands” can improve body tone – and overall health.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
As most folks hit their 50s, they start noticing more aches and pains – and not paying attention to what your body is telling you can lead to a rapid decline in health, says Sherrie Evenson, MS, Exercise Science.

“The most important thing I can tell folks is that the only way to keep your parts moving is to move them,” Evenson tells us, as she prepares to give a talk at Adventist Medical Center based on her new book and DVD entitled “Moving Parts”.

The deconditioning downward spiral
Evenson, who works at the medical center as cardio-pulmonary rehabilitation specialist, says she too-often sees patients’ overall health decline rapidly as their physical activity decreases.

“When people age, they may start feeling chronic pain in their back and hips, shoulders and feet,” Evenson tells us. “The tendency is to avoid movement because it hurts. And when one avoids movement, one starts to experience de-conditioning. Your body adapts to the lack of movement.  Then, you feels even more pain from the reduction of movement.  This leads to a spiral of de-conditioning.”

A lot of the pain that people experience, Evenson explains, comes from activities of everyday life – how one stands, walks, and sits.

With the help of a seminar participant, Sherrie Evenson shows correct posture for a person while bending over.

The posture prescription
“Many problems are posture related,” asserts Evenson. “One approach is to help people become aware of their posture as they stand, sit, walk, and lift objects.”

In addition to that, Evenson says that simple exercises allow you to move in a way that won’t aggravate the pain. “The bottom line is that your joints have to keep moving to be functional. What we’re doing is helping people find ways to move that are not going to aggravate their pain.”

This health educator says that people – especially those who are 40 and above – need to learn how to use their muscles to carry themselves and lift objects, instead of putting pressure on their joints, and using their skeleton as a lever.

“A lot of people end up letting their muscles relax, and their joints take the hit. People don’t see the value of exercise and being aware of good posture and improper use of momentum and balance till they start having problems,” Evenson elucidates.

Evenson shows how simple exercises can help people become more aware of using their muscles – instead of using their joints – as levers.

“A lot of this doesn’t have anything to do with exercise – instead, it is making sure that we use the support system that we have: The over 600 muscles in our body.”

Outlines simple program
At the free seminar, Evenson illustrates her points by demonstrating how muscle groups work together, showing the principles of good posture, and revealing simple strength-training exercises.

If you missed her program, you can check it out – by getting both the “Moving Parts” book and DVD for $35. “It’s cheaper than a single medical office visit,” quips Evenson.

To learn more, visit her web site: CLICK HERE.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Portland residents are safer because of Chief Dave Sprando’s efforts; go with us, here, to his farewell event held at the Portland Fire & Rescue training station in Parkrose …

After 31 years of service, outgoing Portland Fire & Rescue Chief Dave Sprando is given a hearty sendoff by former firefighter – and Portland City Commissioner – Randy Leonard at the retirement event.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
It’s no secret that we’re fans of the men and women who serve our city every day at Portland Fire & Rescue (PF&R). Ask anyone whose home or life has been saved – they’ll agree that our firefighters are the best.

Chief Sprando’s contributions
We know what firefighters do – they rescue folks, and put out fires. We asked Lt. Allen Oswalt, PF&R spokesman, to tell us about how retiring Chief Dave Sprando contributed to the bureau at his retirement reception held at the Portland Fire & Rescue training station in Parkrose not long ago.

“Among other assignments, Dave Sprando was an officer here in outer East Portland, at Station 2, in Parkrose, where we do our training,” Oswalt began.

“He had a direct hand in improving our bureau when he was the Training Officer. Sprando was absolutely convinced that a better-trained firefighter is a safer firefighter. And, a safer firefighter is a better asset to the residents of the City of Portland.

“In addition to good training, we provide recruits a full 10 months of training – longer than any other department in the Pacific Northwest.”

Sprando also had a big role in acquiring new equipment, Oswalt added. “Our job is inherently dangerous. He made the case for better equipment – like new air tanks – to the Portland City Council, and gained their approval.”

Instead of handing over the “keys to the firehouse” – we catch outgoing Fire Chief Dave Sprando handing the official pager and cell phone to incoming Chief John Klum.

Welcoming Fire Chief John Klum
At the reception, we also met the incoming PF&R Chief, John Klum – a 30-year veteran of the force.

Klum was the captain at the HazMat Unit stationed at Station 7 SE 122nd Avenue for nine years, Oswalt told us.

“Back then, Portland Police and Multnomah County Sheriffs were taking down a lot of meth labs – cleaning up seven or eight of them a week.”

More recently, Klum has served as Fire Marshal for the City of Portland.

“Every firefighter, down the line, has the greatest confidence that Klum will continue the tradition of support for the men and women in the bureau – and excellence in fire and rescue services for the citizens of Portland,” Oswalt confided.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

If you couldn’t come by, take a look at the fun we all had as outer East Portland neighbors gathered for the tradition of celebrating the 4th of July on July 3rd …

The parade is the big feature of the day – but many festivities lead up to the event.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Perhaps only in outer East Portland does the community turn out to celebrate Independence Day on July 3rd!

Nevertheless, nearly 300 kids and adults showed up this year at the East Portland Community Center for the day-early star-spangled event.

East Portland Community Center recreation coordinator and parade director Molly King, working with Asst. Building Director Ali Rice, plan their parade strategy – with the help of Portland Police Bureau Traffic Division Sgt. Robert Voepel.

“It’s a great community event that is fun for everyone,” East Portland Community Center recreation coordinator, and parade director, Molly King, said of the event. “And, we do have a beautiful day to celebrate!”

King said this week’s event marked the 11th year of holding the parade. “Both the event, and the number of people who come, have grown over the years,” Kin said. “It started out being just being a parade that marches down to CherryWood Village and back. Now, we have all kinds of pre-parade activities.”

Mia Pinzelik is focusing all of her attention on climbing the rock wall.

Brian Baker helps his daughter Mari make crafts.

The community center staff was busy at a table providing craft fun that kids love. From face painting, to flag making and tattoos, kids and their parents all looked as if they truly enjoyed the sunny outdoor event.

Brian Baker and his daughter Mari said they were there for the first time. “It’s fun and really festive,” Baker told us. “It seems like there a lot of people here having fun.”

The community center’s hot dog chef (and recreation leader) is Bob Calhoun.

Giant, plump $1 hot dogs rolled on the grill – and were snapped up by the hungry crowd. Those wanting a lighter snack made their way to the popcorn tent.

“We’ve expanded our community information booth this year,” commented King. “But it looks like bringing in the rock-climbing wall was a great addition.”

About 11:30 a.m., the parade formed behind the Portland Police Bureau Color Guard and moved out along SE 106th Avenue – and the tradition was again underway.

On the parade route …

Leading off the parade are member of the Portland Police Bureau’s Color Guard Officer Jerry Higginbotham, who works in the Chief’s office; SE Precinct  Officer Tom Rhodes and East Precinct Officers Jennifer Hertzler and Rob Brown. Following them is Portland Police Highland Guard Piper Erin Anderson says he doubles as an East Precinct officer on his “days off”.

First President of Cherrywood Village, Elaine Burns, rides in the Yellow Corvette. I’m in my 10th year at Cherrywood.

Some come in costume – other kids just like walking in the parade.

This event appeals both to the young – and the young at heart! Outer East Portland residents Red DeMars, Solveig Johdahl and Lynn Simmons have come out to enjoy the parade.

Portland Parks & Recreation spokesperson Beth Sorenson, hands out cool treats after the march.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News