This was the second year for the “82nd Avenue of Roses Parade” – take a look at our photo album of this great community event …

Members of the famous “Get a Life Marching Band” warm up (and it was cold!) for their march in the 82nd Avenue of Roses Parade.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
The Second Annual 82nd Avenue of Roses Parade has the distinction of being the earliest civic pride procession this year, as it took to the streets on April 19.

“This year, there were more parade entries,” said parade organizer Ken Turner, president of 82nd Avenue of Roses Business Association. “This, being our second parade, generated a lot more interest in both the neighborhood and business communities.”

Ken Turner, chief organizer of the parade and president of 82nd Avenue of Roses Business Association, is on the run, checking to make sure entries are ready to roll as they stage in the Eastport Plaza parking lot.

Mike Haldecker and Lauren Kuhn, both volunteers from Portland Community College, close a side street before the parade begins.

“The most rewarding aspect,” continued Turner “is the acceptance of the parade by the business and neighborhood community. Not much attention has been drawn to the positive improvements along this avenue. This event showcases the good things that are happening on the east side.”

Turner said that one of the significant challenges for him, and for the core dozen volunteers who worked on the event for eleven months leading up to the parade, was to make sure the parade represented the large collection of communities along the route.

Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1442’s Color Guard leads the parade.

“Another indication of its success this year was the higher number of volunteers we had,” related Turner. More than 85 people pitched in on the day of event – and throughout the year – to make it happen, he said. “This is a way of showing acceptance of this event.”

Participation, he added, wasn’t limited to neighbor volunteers. “City, county, and state agencies that have a connection with – or responsibility for – 82nd Avenue have been really supportive of our event.”

Following the Title Banner, many community, civic, business and governmental groups march in this second annual parade.

Asked about highlights, Turner observed that the “Get a Life Band” was an incredible addition to the parade. “They love to entertain and make people laugh.” After the parade, the band gave a concert Eastport Plaza – complete with majorettes dancing to the beat of lively music.

“It’s going to grow to becoming a major eastside tradition,” Turner predicted. Volunteers are already hard at work on the third annual edition – it’s scheduled for Saturday, April 25, 2009.

Our 82nd Ave. of Roses Parade Photo Album

The Madison High School Drum Corps.

Richard Kiely of Home Run Graphics was one of the core volunteers who worked throughout the year to promote the parade – and co-sponsored the great “Get a Life Marching Band” along with Eastport Plaza.

Playing as they pass, the “Get a Life Marching Band” is a highlight of this year’s parade.

Animated veggies from the Lents Farmer’s Market remind us that the fresh food season is just around the corner. The Montavilla and new Parkrose markets also had entries into the parade.

East Portland Chamber of Commerce president Rich Sorem of Stewart & Tunno Insurance Agency and chamber VP, Pam Olson, Farmer’s Insurance, extend their greetings on behalf of the organization.

A parade favorite is the Dragon Dancers in the parade.

Portland Police Bureau East Precinct Commander Michael Crebs cruises up the avenue.

The parade comes to an end – but look for it again on Saturday, April 25, 2009.

Ready to have even more fun, members of the “Get a Life Marching Band” reassemble at Eastport Plaza and play an impromptu concert for their sponsors, Eastport Plaza and Home Run Graphics.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Take a look at our preview of this great show – many say it’s better than the cartoon version …

Rehearsing their parts for their production of “The Jungle Book” are Parkrose High student actors Jacob Pratt, Victoria Kerr, Steven Ennis and Jacquelle Davis. The show runs May 8th through the 17th.

Story and photo by David F. Ashton
It’s Spring Musical time … and Parkrose High School Thespian Troupe #1783 presents “The Jungle Book” starting this week.

This adaptation of Rudyard Kipling’s “Mowgli” story, by Mila Johanson, is more true to the author’s original short stories written more than 100 years ago than was the 1960s Disney cartoon version by the same title.

Based on watching the cast rehearse their parts, we’ve seen that this will be a fun, fast-paced musical. It’s loaded with songs, dance numbers, audience interaction, a colorful setting and lots of family fun. Little kids will enjoy this show as much as adults.

Story in a nutshell
The Jungle Book follows the story of a child, Mowgli (played by Jacquelle Davis), who is raised in the jungles of India by animals: Bagheera, a wise black panther (played by Jacob Pratt), and sleepy, goofy bear named Baloo (played by Steven Ennis).

Mowgli runs away with a band of monkeys – only to be held captive by them. Will the cunning rock python Kaa (played by Vctoria Kerr) help rescue Mowgli? Will all of the animals in the jungle learn — and act as if — they are truly “brothers of one blood”?

An interactive show
“Some the characters go out in the audience at different times, meeting and interacting with them,” said Ms. Zena, Parkrose High’s drama instructor.

“This is a fun show, with original, catchy music – people will walk away singing songs. It’s very bright and upbeat; it’s loaded with positive messages,” Zena added.

With lively songs, and spirited dance numbers, “The Jungle Book” will please all members of the family.

Show for all ages
The full-stage set is beautiful – the stage is transformed into a jungle wonderland. The scenery was built and decorated by students working under the direction of theater operations manager Terry Franceschi. Lighting changes effective depict changes in locations and time of day.

The live musical score, played under the baton of the school’s band instructor, Michael Tolon, helps move the story along. And, appropriately chosen recorded music effectively punctuates a dance number featuring an awakening jungle lion.

“While it is a sophisticated production,” said Zena, “This truly is a show for the entire family. We hope our community will come out and have a wonderful time with our cast and crew.”

Runs May 8 through May 17
Opening night is Thursday, May 8 and continues on May 9 with a 7:00 p.m. curtain time (please come early). and, there is a special matinee performance on Saturday, May 10 at 2:00 p.m. (no evening show on that date).

If you can’t make it this week, plan to see the show May 15, 16 or 17 – these are all evening performances.

The price is right; tickets at the door are: adults are $8; $5 for those 18 & under or 65+. It’s at the Parkrose High School Theater, 12003 NE Shaver St., near NE 122nd Avenue.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News Service

This guy traveled to the edge of Gresham hoping for some “afternoon delight”. He got some real “action” – but not the kind he was looking for …

After arranging for a sex session on the internet, a 39-year-old man got a lot more “action” than he bargained for – and got robbed by thugs in these apartments.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
He was envisioning a sexy encounter, as this fellow drove to the apartment building at 17223 Southeast Powell Blvd. just past noon on April 29.

The 39-year-old guy was probably hoping for some real excitement; after all, he’d arranged a sex-for-money rendezvous via the Internet.

Police aren’t saying who this Romeo is – but he turned from lover-boy into victim within moments after entering the apartment. Portland Police Bureau spokesperson, Officer Cathe Kent filled us in on what happened next.

“The victim arrived at Alicia Roach residence on SE Powell Blvd when two men, armed with a handgun and a baseball bat, confronted him,” reported Kent. “After threatening the victim, the suspects took victim’s money. During the encounter, one shot was discharged inside the apartment.”

Although shaken by be robbed at gun (and bat) point, the victim wasn’t injured; he fled and called police.

When gunshots are fired – and suspects are holed up – SERT members don’t take any chances. They bring out all of their protective gear.

Officers make sure no one gets in or out of these apartments while the investigation continues. The building – you can see just the edge of it – is directly behind the front apartment building.

SERT shuts down streets
Because a gun was fired, the bureau’s Special Emergency Response Team (SERT) arrived and the area around the apartment buildings was taped off – shutting down a 2-block area including the intersection of SE Powell Blvd. and SE 174th Ave.

It took hours to evacuate the area residents and contact witnesses. Eventually, investigators learned that the suspects were hiding in a neighboring apartment.

As the sun set on the edge of outer East Portland, SERT officers isolated the apartment and ordered the suspects out of the apartment. All three surrendered without incident.

• 25-year-old Antawan Simpkins was charged with two counts of Robbery in the First Degree and one count of Ex-con in Possession of a Firearm.
• 16-year-old Anthony Dondre Roach was charged with two counts of Robbery in the First Degree and one count of Menacing.
• 23-year-old Alicia Marie Roach was charged with one count of Robbery in the First Degree.

Fortunately, no additional shots were fired, and the situation ended without incident.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Learn why this East Portland Veteran’s group throws this honorary dinner – and how the recipients may go on to earn national fame for their service …

The hall was filled to capacity as American Legion Post #1 honored Portland Fire & Rescue and the Portland Police Bureau’s men of the year.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
The American Legion Post #1 meeting hall on SE 122nd Avenue was packed elbow-to-elbow, as their annual Friendship Dinner honoring Portland’s top police officer and top firefighter got underway on April 19.

“We present the ‘Russ Lemmon Awards’ each year,” Post Commander Thomas Fulton told us, after the three-course buffet dinner and before the awards ceremony.

American Legion Post #1 Commander Thomas Fulton conducts the presentation of the Russ Lemmon Awards.

“The purpose is to recognize outstanding individuals from our fire and police bureaus who make our community better and safer,” Fulton explained. “One [honoree] will risk their life to save yours, by pulling you from a burning house. The other might give you a deserved traffic ticket – or step in the line of fire and take a bullet, to keep you from being shot.”

The firefighter and the officer are chosen by coworkers at their respective bureaus, Fulton explained. Those honored by Post #1 will compete for state-wide honors from the Oregon American Legion; and, if successful, will go on to be considered for national recognition.

Portland Fire & Rescue Firefighter Anthony Tony Snook from Station #1 accepts his award from American Legion Portland Post #1 Commander Thomas Fulton as PF&R Captain Robert Zavodsky looks on.

Firefighter of the Year
“It’s an honor to be among great Americans,” said Portland Fire & Rescue (PF&R) Captain Robert Zavodsky, as he began telling why Firefighter Anthony “Tony” Snook from PF&R Station #1 was selected.

“Tony does not look toward rank or money – things that normally motivate people. Tony is one of those true firefighters who, day in and day out, is motivated by the passion he has for his work. He comes to work with a tremendous attitude; the younger ones look to him as a shining light,” Zavodsky noted.

Snook has become known as an apparatus specialist, able to fix nearly anything, including the six-burner range in the station house. He designed and specified the equipment used in PF&R’s “Urban Search and Rescue” rig.

“Before search video cameras were available, Tony and his lieutenant built a prototype search camera system. It was a great – there was nothing like it at the time,” Zavodsky quipped, “except it took a man just to carry the battery.”

Snook is known as a Disneyland aficionado, Zavodsky added. A firefighter, with a son ill with cancer, asked for help planning an upcoming trip. “Not only did Tony lay out ‘the ideal’ itinerary, he encouraged everyone in the stationhouse to help pay for the trip.”

On the third-floor wall of Station #1, his Captain told the veterans, there is a wall bearing photographs of each of the firefighters who won this award over the years. “I get a special feeling when I walk down that hall and think about these dedicated firefighters. All of us will tell you that Tony is the sort of person that you would like to work with,” concluded Zavodsky as he handed the award to Snook.

Past Post Commander Tom Murphy escorts honoree Officer Robert Brown around the meeting hall and to the stage.

Police Officer of the Year
Portland Police Bureau East Precinct Commander Michael Crebs was next to step to the podium, to tell why Officer Robert Brown was chosen for this year’s honor.

“Cops are often in chaotic situations,” began Crebs. “Not only is he physically imposing, Officer Brown’s performance is tactically sound. Whenever he goes into a tense situation, he brings calm and a state of equilibrium. He helps people feel that everything will soon be alright.”

Crebs held up a thick folder, and told what he found, when he reviewed Brown’s personnel file.

“There are too many commendations and letters to read,” the Commander said. “I pulled out a couple of items, to give you a snapshot of this officer; each of them tells a different story about Robert.”

Reading a note that one of his peers wrote, early in his career, Crebs quoted, “Officer Brown does well in establishing rapport with citizens. He’s personable and respectful. He shows initiative when activity is slow, and doesn’t focus on one aspect such as traffic stops.” The commander added, “This shows that Robert was a well-rounded officer from day one.”

Crebs then related the story of a grocery store robber who held a knife to the neck of a clerk and demanded money. “The suspect fled as Robert arrived on-scene. He tracked the suspect down, following him through neighborhood back yards. Robert saw feet sticking out from under a bush, took the suspect into custody, and recovered the money. This is exemplifies his work; he loves to catch the ‘bad guys’.”

Portland Police Bureau East Precinct Commander Michael Crebs congratulates Officer Robert Brown after his award was presented by the Post’s commander, Thomas Fulton, at American Legion Portland Post #1.

The final example Crebs pointed out was this citation: “He has the ability to quickly establish a perimeter, work with undercover officers, and work with members of the canine unit. [Brown’s] outstanding work significantly contributed to the capture of suspects, and to the safety of the community.”

Over the past two years, Brown’s efforts working with canine units resulted in the arrest of 15 suspects for felony activities in different incidents, the commander noted.

Quoting the great football coach, Vince Lombardi, Crebs looked Brown in the eyes and concluded by saying, “The quality of a person’s life is in direct proportion to his commitment to personal excellence regardless of his chosen field of endeavor. Robert, you chose the Portland Police Bureau’s East Precinct night shift, where you’ve achieved excellence.”

After the program concluded, PF&R Chief David Sprando commented, “Considering the way that these individuals have served their country, it’s like the top honor for us.”

Commander Crebs agreed, adding, “This Post’s hospitality and generosity is awesome. It makes me feel good inside to know that we have this kind of support in our community.”

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Ballots are out! While the questions were specific here – find out if the answers candidates for mayor and two City Counsel positions were equally forthcoming …

To read the full text – a complete transcription – and see the candidates’ exact answers, please CLICK HERE.

Story by Watford Reed; photos by David F. Ashton
Neglect, development, crowding in housing and unpaved roads were leading topics when 12 candidates for three city offices spoke at a candidates forum April 22 at Fir Crest School, on Southeast 112th Ave. and SE Market St.

The forum was sponsored by 21 neighborhood associations located in eastern and central northern Portland. About 60 men and women braved threatening weather to attend. The threats were fulfilled when a downpour made it hard to hear the speakers.

One theme the meeting was simmering resentment over annexation into Portland, coupled with the feeling that the area gets less than its share of attention.

Mayoral candidates spar

Portland mayoral candidate, Sho Dozono.

Leading off the forum, Sam Adams and Sho Dozono, the leading candidates for mayor, traded barbs in civil tones of voice. Adams criticized a Dozono for suggesting that Parkrose and David Douglas school systems joined Portland public schools. Adams said that Dozono did not ask Parkrose and David Douglas residents what they thought; but he wants to stress neighborhood individuality.

Dozono, wearing his trademark white tennis shoes, answered that he only said school district consolidation was “worth thinking about” and criticized Adams for backing a Couch-Burnside couplet while other activities need money.

Adams said central northeast and east Portland neighborhoods have been “ignored” by the city Council but they are getting money, at last, for transportation improvements.

Portland mayoral candidate, Sam Adams.

Dozono agreed that the area has been “neglected” and has been settled with density of buildings which residents do not like. He promised to send planners to talk with residents before areas are further developed.

Adams called for more police in the area, more money for transportation and said that the eastern area of town has had less than its share of revenues spent on it. He estimated that a fourth of the streets in the area have no sidewalks.

Dozono promised to appoint a liaison on the mayor’s staff to eastern Portland, crack down on gangs and work with neighborhood associations.

In answer to a question, Dozono criticized overcrowding in the area and building too many apartment houses.

“We need to stop destroying the environment for which you came,” Dozono said.

Adams recommended bringing business to an 80-acre tract still unoccupied, “managing growth with services” and “protecting neighborhoods”.

Admas decried and in balance between wage levels and housing costs, as well as a lack of parks.

Dozono called for focus on affordable housing without crowding and urged, “No more skinny houses”.

Ready to speak up are Portland City Council Position #1 candidates Jeff Bissonnette, Mike Fahey, Amanda Fritz, Charles Lewis and Chris Smith get ready to answer neighbor’s questions.

Portland City Council Position #1 Candidates

Portland City Council Position #1 candidate Jeff Bissonnette.

When the time came for candidates who desire Sam Adams seat on the Portland City Council, Jeff Bissonnette said he is for better employment, better environment and has been an advocate for ratepayers on the state’s Citizens Utility Board.

Candidate Mike Fahey said that as state representative, he fostered a measure — which passed — require notification of nearby residents before land is rezoned. When he lived elsewhere, he recalled, he chose to leave his family home because land next door was rezoned to permit a high-rise building.

Portland City Council Position #1 candidate Mike Fahey.

Fahey also said he is “not an advocate” for increasing the city’s population by 170,000 as foreseen by many.

“We need to bring up the quality of life for those who are here now,” he declared it makes no sense he added to move people into already overburdened areas.

Amanda Fritz called herself a “cheerleader for education” and urged better protection of trees and a change in the building code to protect houses and outlaw the building of a high-rise structure next to a small house. “We need to protect houses from developers,” she said.

Portland City Council Position #1 candidate Amanda Fritz.

Fritz also called for attention to “flag lots” — which have a narrow strip easement alongside an existing house and a large house or apartment building is constructed behind it.

Bissonnette promised to have a field office in eastern Portland if he is elected and to order each of his bureaus to name an advocate for the area.

In answer to a question, but said her neighborhood was annexed to Portland in 1959 and many roads are still unpaved.

Portland City Council Position #1 candidate Charles Lewis.

Candidate Charles Lewis said when he started his campaign, he did it by filling in potholes in streets near his house because the city didn’t do it. Louis declared, “it is absolutely outrageous to funnel money into downtown” when the city has hundreds of miles of unpaid roads.

Fahey declared residents should have the right to seek damages for the loss of value of their property when density increases.

He also said he has “no problem” with freezing taxes for elderly residents.

Charles Lewis said the city “needs somebody on the council who cares about the little guy.”  Further, he declared, something is wrong “when the city Council spends money for condominiums Wall Street’s are not paid.”

He told of his efforts to get available city helped to start a small business. In the end he had to do it himself, he recalled

To upgrade employment in the area, Fahey urged apprenticeships taught by unions, community colleges, and the new Ace Academy. He said he thought it was unfortunate that Portland Public Schools turned down the charter school concept for construction trades.

Speaking about increased personal safety, Fritz called for television cameras to monitor all MAX stations. Only a third of all the stations now have them, she said.

Likewise, more police should be assigned to keep outsiders from making trouble at Max stops, she added.

Portland City Council Position #1 candidate Chris Smith.

Chris Smith called for more attention to neighborhood needs and wishes; and, less emphasis on building downtown.

Smith advocated for the “Safe, Sound, and Green Streets initiative”. While he praised the construction of the MAX Green Line down I-205, he added, “Unfortunately, the rail has absorbed a lot of the additional service hour resources for transit.  We need to find another funding source to bring on more bus capacity and I will work very hard on that.”

Speaking about the effects of increased density in outer East Portland, Smith said, “It is better to build entirely new, very dense neighborhoods like the Pearl District, than it is to shoehorn density into existing neighborhoods.”

Portland City Council Position #2 Candidates

After answering questions at the Forum, Portland City Council Position #2 candidates Nick Fish, Ed Garren, Fred Stewart and Jim Middaugh pause for a photo.

Four candidates for Erik Stin’s City Council seat were next to answer the neighbors’ questions regarding poor results of rapid growth in outer East Portland.

Portland City Council Position #2 candidate Nick Fish.

Nick Fish said small businesses should be given a boost. he called for “more flexible zoning” which will “respect the character of an area”. He also said a quota should be set on building permits.

Likewise, Fish said, the police anti-gaining force should be strengthened and more money should be allotted to sidewalks and similar improvements. “I also have serious reservations about spending $400 million on the Burnside-Couch couplet while there are so many unpaid roads in this area,” he went on.

Fish said he will recommend a moratorium on the development of “flag lots” until planners can propose ways to better handle them. He also called for City Council meetings to be held in the neighborhoods.

Portland City Council Position #2 candidate Ed Garren.

Ed Garren said that he fought successfully against Wal-Mart store on Hayden Island. He said he left his Florida home because of such development.

Garren charged, “City Hall is out of touch with the needs of people who work for a living.”  He said Portland is the “Green capital” of the United States and expressed hope that every house will eventually have solar panels for energy.

Portland City Council Position #2 candidate Jim Middaugh.

Jim Middaugh promised “for the first time to use money from downtown here [in central and outer East Portland], where it is needed.”

“We need to enforce existing regulations,” Middaugh commented, to prevent erosion and protect trees.” He said he has experience in protecting natural resources.

Middaugh promised more nonprofit housing and office to help the elderly get the benefits meant for them.

Portland City Council Position #2 candidate Fred Stewart.

In answer to a question, Fred Stewart said he is “not happy with the way we have approached growth and density.”  This issue, he said, should be handled on a citywide basis.”

Stewart proposed a tax on airplane arrivals and departures at Portland international Airport to pay for improving the infrastructure of eastern Portland.

Stewart estimated that a third of Portland folk who could qualify for home loans a year ago cannot qualify now.

Vote on May 20
One candidate for Adams presents seat, John Branum was inadvertently not invited to the forum in time for his participation.

David F. Ashton, the moderator at this forum, estimated that 200,000 people live in Central Northeast, and Outer East Portland. He urged “vote for a candidate of your own choosing, but vote.”

© 2008 East Portland News Service

When you see the photos of this wreck, you’ll wonder how
the victim survived this horrendous collision …

Working swiftly, yet carefully, Portland Fire & Rescue crews first stabilize the victim from this crash and prepare him for transport to the hospital.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Just after 8:00 p.m. on April 28, Scott Stenburg was heading west – toward Portland – on SE Flavel Street. He never made it past SE 72nd Avenue, though.

We don’t know how fast the truck – described as witnesses as a full-size Ford pickup – was going when it slammed into the back of Steinberg’s Volkswagen Jetta.

The force of the impact was so great; it drove the Jetta forward into an Oldsmobile, in front of it. It came to rest facing somewhat eastbound in front of Marcus Whitman Elementary School.

“After the collision the Ford pickup fled the area,” reported police spokesman Sgt. Brian Schmautz.

After being rammed from behind, and driven into the car ahead of it, this VW Jetta is more seriously damaged than the driver was injured.

The result was a compact car that looked more like a crumpled concertina with four flattened tires – and a missing tail section.

Within minutes, Portland Fire & Rescue crews were on scene, stabilizing Stenburg and assessing his medical condition. Although firefighters did not need to use the Hurst Tool, or “Jaws of Life”, it did take them some time to pry the doors open and remove the crash victim.

Firefighters and ambulance workers lift the victim onto a waiting gurney.

A young lady, who claimed to be the victim’s girlfriend, said that the Stenburg had just finished rebuilding the car. “But I’m not worried about the car – I’m really worried about him.”

The following day, April 29, we received a call from an insurance investigator who stated that the hit-and-run driver was located about 90 minutes after the accident. He indicated that the hit and run driver had been involved in other traffic related incidents.

34-year-old Jody Marshall Smith (a photo from 2002) was charged with one count of Felony Hit and Run, police say.

Sgt. Schmautz confirmed that police did find the driver they suspect caused the accident. “While conducting follow-up investigation, officers identified the driver of the pickup as 34-year-old [Mr.] Jody Marshall Smith. Smith was charged with one count of Felony Hit and Run.”

Although Steinberg was transported to the hospital for observation, Schmautz added that there were no serious injuries resulting from the collision.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Remember the “drive-through meth stop” on SE Division Street that was busted, closed, and all set to become a community center? See what challenges – including huge underground gas tanks – it still faces …

SE Uplift Chair Paul Leistner looks at the “Tabor Commons” roof that needs to be replaced.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
From the rooftop above to the tanks below, it’s going to take some doing before the former SE Division Street “Drive-thru Wake-up and Deli” is finally transformed into the Atkinson/Tabor Commons Community Center.

Still leading the transformational process is neighbor Paul Leistner, Chair of SE Uplift neighborhood coalition.

Leistner reminds us that the store’s former owner was arrested, and pled guilty to charges of supplying large quantities of pseudoephedrine to local meth labs. “The property was seized by the federal government. We worked with the federal government to get community ownership of this property.”

SE Uplift actually owns the land and building on behalf of the Mt. Tabor neighborhood Association, the South Tabor neighborhood Association, and the Atkinson PTA, Leistner noted. “We look forward to using the facility for classes, community meetings, and events – festivals and celebrations.”

But, before this former gas station, located across the street from Atkinson Elementary School, becomes a family-friendly center run by a nonprofit organization, it needs some work.

Replacing a 50-year-old roof
“We also just found out that we needed a new roof on the building,” Leistner revealed. “The metal roof is 50 years old; the project is going to be challenging. We wanted to do an eco-roof; this is our opportunity.”

Problem is, he said, eco-roofs are heavy. “We need to reinforce the building to be strong enough to carry the additional weight. We’re working with our volunteer engineers and advisory people to figure out what that would cost, and how we would do that.”

Leaking tanks pollute site
Additional bad news is that huge, leaking, steel gas tanks are buried under the property.

But there is some good news too – the Oregon Economic and Community Development Department has now awarded the project a $96,000 grant to clean up the contaminated land.

Clark Henry, manager of the “brownfield program” with the City of Portland’s Bureau of Environmental Services, explained the situation.

“A ‘brownfield’ is a site that isn’t used, because the ground or buildings are contaminated,” said Henry. “We see this at old gas stations, dry cleaners, metal-plating facilities, and manufacturing sites.”

Remediation is a three-step process, Henry went on: “First, we gather an environmental history to let us know what the site’s use was. Next, we take soil and groundwater samples to evaluate the steps that are needed to meet DEQ’s environmental regulatory standards. Tests on this site revealed that while the soil is contaminated near the tanks, the contamination didn’t migrate across the street to the elementary school’s property.”

The final phase of remediation is removing the asphalt pavements, the tanks, and the contaminated soil.

Clark Henry, manager of the Brownfield program with BES, as well as Chris Breemer, senior project manager at GeoEngineers, and Paul Leistner look at the area on this community property where old leaking gasoline storage tanks will soon be dug up.

Excavation to start in June
At the site on Division Street, we also spoke with Chris Breemer, senior project manager at GeoEngineers. They’re the general contractors that will oversee the decontamination process.

“They’ve hired us to manage the removal of the underground storage tanks and remediation of the contaminated soil,” said Breemer. “We know that there are four gas takes in the ground; there may be a fifth one. We don’t know how far down we’ll actually dig until we actually get in there. The tanks are probably 10 to 12 feet deep.”

The contaminated dirt will be taken to a landfill in Hillsboro which is set up to manage petroleum-contaminated soil, Breemer noted. “The tanks will be recycled; they’re made of steel. If there are any fluids in the tanks, a lot of those can be recycled as well.”

Unique opportunity at hand
After beefing up the building, installing a new eco-roof, and taking out the tanks, volunteers still need to raise funding to renovate the building’s gutted interior.

We asked Leistner why he’s willing to work so hard to see this product through.

“It’s such a rare opportunity when people in the community can actually get control of a piece of commercial property,” Leistner replied. “It’s an opportunity, especially when it’s being turned from a blatant problem into a community facility that brings together two neighborhoods and a school. It could be a model for other communities to do something similar.”

Depending on the level of donations, as well as volunteer help, the community center could be open as soon as this summer, Leistner said.

To get involved, or learn more, contact Leistner at (503) 232-0010, or e-mail him at paulamy@teleport.com.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News Service

Discover why two Portland pioneers time-traveled forward
a century to speak with school kids …

“Allow me to introduce myself! I’m Dr. Harry Lane, former Mayor of Portland. This is my good friend, Georgiana Pittock; she started the Portland Rose Society. Together, we started the Portland Rose Festival 101 years ago.”

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
The 3rd grade students in Peggy Garcia’s class at Winterhaven Elementary School looked surprised to see two prominent characters for Portland’s past walk into their classroom.

It was like a history book came to life when Georgiana Pittock and Dr. Harry Lane strode in among the students, and stopping at a table set at the front of the room.

Angel Ocasio, special projects manager for the Portland Rose Festival Foundation, began the organization’s Living History Program in its SE Portland appearance, saying, “I know you’ve been studying about Portland history, and I brought two wonderful people with me. These are the people who made the Portland Rose Festival what it is today.”

Georgiana Pittock (Mary Hutchens) shows the 3rd graders her most prized possession, brought to Portland from her birthplace in Iowa, via the Oregon Trail.

The life and times of Mrs. Pittock
Dressed in her turn-of-the-twentieth-century clothing, Georgiana Pittock told the students how her family moved from Iowa to Portland.

She detailed her family’s arduous trip on the Oregon Trail. The youngsters sat in rapt attention as she told about the time she rode away from the wagon train, and was captured by a Native American tribe; and how she was returned to her family, unharmed, three days later.

As part of her presentation, Pittock showed the students examples of things they took with them on the trip, including preserves, seeds, and her dolly.

Later, as an adult, Pittock was credited with starting the Portland Rose Society.  This is the philanthropic group that still promotes the cultivation of roses throughout Portland.

Dr. Harry Lane (Dave Rianda) tells the Winterhaven students why he became a doctor, then Mayor of Portland, more than a century ago.

Father of the Rose Festival
Dr. Harry Lane, dressed as he would have been when he served as Mayor of Portland from 1905 to 1909, told the students about his youth.

Like Mrs. Pittock, Lane’s family moved to Portland when he was a boy.

Lane related how he became interested in studying medicine and becoming a physician. After starting his practice in New York, he returned to Oregon to run the state hospital, where he became known as a reformer.

This, he said, led to his being drafted into running for the office of Mayor.

How the Rose Festival was created
“1905, the Lewis and Clark Exposition was set up here, like a World’s Fair,” Lane recounted. “More than 1.5 million visitors came to Portland over a five-month period.”

At the end of the festival, Lane said the exposition’s trustees decided to gain publicity for Portland by calling it the “the Rose Capital of the World”. The plan began to gain traction: “We could invite people to come here in June of each year, and celebrate our roses. We could get them to forget about Los Angeles and Seattle, and come here to vacation!”

Working with Mrs. Pittock and volunteers from the Portland Rose Society, the Portland Rose Festival was created in 1907.

An award-winning presentation
After the presentation, Ocasio told us the Living History Program witnessed by the Winterhaven School students was the idea of idea of Marilyn Clint, the associate Executive Director of the Portland Rose Festival. “Last year, to celebrate the festival’s centennial year, they thought it would be great to bring back some of the historical characters.”

At the end of their season last year, the International Festivals & Events Association recognized the Rose Festival Living History Program as both one of the best educational programs and also one of the best community outreach programs in the world.

The Portland Rose Festival runs from May 29 through June 8. For more information, see www.rosefestival.org

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News Service

No, this is not a boozing society! If you’re not familiar with the term “Breweriana”, learn what these folks are collecting, right here …

Part of Norman Irby’s breweriana collection is this Busch “beer chalk” and stein.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
As we walk into the springtime gathering of the Cascade Breweriana Association, we can’t help but think, “Beer, beer everywhere, and not a drop to drink!”

The tables in the VFW Hall on SE Fern Street are laden with beer labels, signs, tap handles, steins, posters, and T-shirts, as the association’s quarterly swap meet gets underway.

We learn the members of the Cascade Breweriana Association, which was founded in 1978, are dedicated to the collection, the history, and the enjoyment of beer-related items.

Norman Irby, vice president of club, said, “Our swap meet draws people from all over the Pacific Northwest. In fact we have members here today from the Rainier club in the Seattle area. Most of our people are from the greater Portland area, but collectors come from as far away as Eugene.

There are about 125 members in the local club, said Irby. It’s a regional chapter of the national Brewery Collectibles Club of America.

“I collect a lot of different types of things,” Irby stated. “I first started with steins. But I’ve since gotten more into collecting beer chalks.”

A beer chalk, he explained, is a figurine representing the logo of a particular brewery.

Rich Horrocks shows a rare Bohemian Beer stein once produced by Stroh’s Brewing Co. from Detroit, MI.

A full-time hobby
“I’m from Milwaukie and I ought to know,” said Rich Horrocks with a smile, “but that’s spelled with an ‘ie’ on the end.”

Horrocks, a long time member of Cascade Breweriana Association and a board member of the national association, said this is a “full-time hobby” for him, and that he started collecting beer cans in 1963.

“No, I wasn’t old enough to drink then, but my dad emptied out a lot of cans for me. Then I sold the beer can collection and got into breweriana – posters, lighted signs – it can be anything related to the promotion and marketing of brewed beverages.”

Breweriana, Horrocks told us, is a hobby that brings out the best in people. “It’s a lot of fun to intermingle and see the collectios. One might collect Rainer; another might collect Blitz, or breweriana from the microbrewers.  We try to help each other, and pick up different items that other members would enjoy.”

As he picks up items from his table, and tells about their origin, Horrocks handles each piece of breweriana as if it’s a museum piece. “You just got to love it, huh?” he says with a wide grin.

Amid a sea of bottles (mostly empty), visitors Steve and Alva Johnston say they drove from Hillsboro to inner SE Portland to take a look at the breweriana collections. “We’re having lots and lots of fun,” Steve says.

You’re invited!
The Cascade Breweriana Association holds four swap meets each year, where anyone can buy, sell, or trade all of beer-related items, Horrocks said.  “We have an award-winning newsletter that we send out before each meeting.  It has articles on local brewing history, rare collectibles, and memorabilia.”

The local club doesn’t have a web site, but for more information,  CLICK HERE.

The membership dues are just $12 per year, he added. If you’re interested, give Horrocks a call at (503) 653-0312 for more information.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News Service

Here’s another opportunity to meet some of the
candidates hoping for your vote on May 20 …

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Two Oregon state legislature hopefuls, two Multnomah County Commissioner candidates, and four contenders for City of Portland offices all arrived bright and early at Cherrywood Village to meet and greet people from Portland’s business community on April 16.

Ken Turner, Government Affairs chair for the East Portland Chamber of Commerce, serves as moderator and quizmaster at this candidate’s forum.

The event, presented by the East Portland Chamber of Commerce, was hosted by the organization’s Government Affairs Chair, Ken Turner.

With about fifty business people and community members present – along with TV news cameramen from two local stations – the program got underway. “We invited many candidates to attend this forum,” Turner stated as the forum began, “The East Portland Chamber of Commerce is not endorsing any candidates for any office.”

The candidates lined up in front of the meeting room; Turner asked each of the candidates to introduce themselves.

The candidates appear here in the same order as they spoke …

Oregon Senate District 23 candidate Sean Cruz

The first to speak was Sean Cruz, running for Oregon Senate District 23. Cruz said he was the chief of staff for Oregon State Senator Avel Gordly for many years. “I’m a Parkrose resident, real estate broker of 8 years; I work in the district.”

Working in health care issues was his forte, Cruz said. “And about my hair – here’s the story: I said I wouldn’t cut my hair until my sons came back from military service in Iraq.” One son died in military service, Cruz reported, the other came back, but “no one has seen him since he returned. Even five years into the war, there is no [State] senate committee for veteran’s affairs. We need to work on dealing with the war – ending and helping the veterans.”

Portland City Council Position #2 candidate, Jim Middaugh

“I’m running to get the job done at City Hall,” stated Jim Middaugh, who’s running for Erik Sten’s soon-to-be-vacated seat, Portland City Council Position #2.

While we don’t recall he mentioned that he’s been Sten’s Chief-of-Staff, he did point to his work with the Columbia Gorge Commission, promoting business in Troutdale, working through Sten’s office to get more funding for David Douglas Schools and improving transportation on SE Foster Blvd. He said he’s the only “publicly-financed” candidate in his race.

“We need to recognize outer East Portland and East County. We need to help reduce the cost of permitting,” Milesnick proclaimed.

Multnomah County Commissioner District 3 candidate, Rob Milesnick

Rob Milesnick, said he’s the job as Multnomah County Commissioner for District 3 because, “It’s time for the county to change. There’s too much infighting in the county, downtown [Portland], and in Salem. I’m reaching out to start a dialogue.”

Milesnick said he’s a graduate of Syracuse University; and is employed in health care, working for ODS. His community work includes “being on the City’s Citizen’s Review Board”.

Portland City Council Position #2 candidate, Nick Fish

“We’re living in a time of unprecedented challenge,” began Nick Fish, candidate for Portland City Council Position #2. “We have a historic election ongoing: Four of five seats that govern the City of Portland are up for election.”

Fish said he’s spent 20 years in business as a lawyer, representing workers’ issues. Additionally, he said he championed reforming public housing and has been doing a weekly television talk show that shows viewers how government works.”

“I want to be a champion for small businesses. Small business is the backbone of the community, providing 80% of [local] jobs. At the same time, we all also benefit from having a strong downtown area. The Portland City Council doesn’t make jobs; but we can help create an environment that promotes more jobs being created. We need to focus on our core mission: Public safety, infrastructure and parks.”

Portland City Council Position #1 candidate Chris Smith

Up next was Chris Smith; he’s running to fill Sam Adams’ seat on the Portland City Council in Position #1. Smith said he brings 20 years of experience of being a high-tech and marketing executive to the post.

“And, I’ve been an activist in Portland on issues of livability and transportation; I’ve been working on ‘Safe, Sound and Green Streets” project. I want open and transparent government. Our [Portland City] Commissioners are legislators; but they also are administrators. Each of them runs several bureaus. I have the management experience to do that well.”

In addition to paying attention to basic services, Smith suggests that the City uses the theme of “sustainability” to build a competitive advantage. “We need to promote an industry sector in sustainability, and have our economy thrive by pursuing that strategy.”

Multnomah County Commissioner District 3 candidate Mike Delman

Mike Delman, a candidate for Multnomah County Commissioner District 3, told the group he worked as the Chief-of-Staff for an unnamed county commissioner, and has held other county posts. He now works with Portland Habilitation Center.

“I’m running because of my experience working at the county. Multnomah County has suffered from the ‘Mean Girls’ debacle. But, [sitting County Chair] Ted Wheeler has turned it around. In this office, we need someone who understands the needs of the county,” Delman stated.

As a cost-cutting example, Delman suggested outsourcing of the county’s vehicle fleet, saying the privatization could save taxpayers as much as 30% per year.

Oregon State Representative, District 49 candidate, Nick Kahl

Although he’s running for a seat that represents Fairview, Wood Village, and Gresham, Nick Kahl pitched his candidacy to be District 49’s Oregon State Representative.

“I grew up on 113th Avenue near East. Burnside Street. Now, I still see that the people who live and work east of 82nd have a commonality of interests with those who are in East County.”

Kahl’s interests include improved roads and highways and increased capital budgets for school building. “We need to see the green industry come here. I hope to see the abandoned East County high tech facilities being put to use by green industry companies.”

City of Portland Mayoral candidate, Sam Adams

Sam Adams, the Portland Commissioner running for the job as Portland’s Mayor, said he’d keep his remarks brief.

“There is a clear different between me and Sho Dozono. I’m in favor of local control of schools. I do not support Portland Public Schools taking over Parkrose and David Douglas school districts. My opponent does.”

Adams added he was in favor of using some tax increment financing to help David Douglas Schools funding capital building projects.

Questions and answers

Family Wage Jobs

Q “What are ‘family wage’ jobs?”

Cruz: “I don’t know.”

Milesnick: “We must deal with rising medical costs. Most of the bankruptcies are caused by expenses arising from medical issues.”

Fish: “It takes about $85,000 in family income to afford a home. A family wage job is two wage earners making $18 to $22/hr with benefits. Most working families can not afford to live here.”

Smith: “We need to look at the benefit component [of wages]. How to keep living in Portland affordable is the real question. Also, we need to look in to questions of affordable housing.”

Delman: “I agree with Fish. The county’s core mission is health care and public safety. Want to support [sitting Multnomah County Commissioner] Jeff Cogan to provide more family jobs. And, we need to strengthen public safety.”

Adams: “21% of Portlanders work at a poverty wage.”

With that, moderator Turner stated, “Family wage jobs are 2 times minimum wage.”

Increased employment

Q What will you do to provide more jobs?

Cruz: “Portland Community College’s Southeast Center is the economic key for this area. They provide job training. We import welders from other states; there are not enough here to fill the needs of industry. Also there are not enough nurses. The college is asking for a bond package; I hope you will support their effort.”

Middaugh: “Finish cleaning up the Portland Harbor. Investment there is frozen until the ‘cloud’ of being defined as a [pollution] superfund site is lifted. Then, we’ll be able to get living wages back. Also, I’d like to see the process of getting permits in the City streamlined; it costs too much to start, or grow, a business here.”

Milesnick: “We need more green jobs. The things we want to do will take a while.” Community design is the one of the key solutions, he added. “We need business, shopping and schools closer to home. It is hard to create jobs at the county level.”

Fish: “I have a secret plan: Live by the Small Business Bill of Rights that has already been accepted by the City. I plan have it at my side at all times. We need strong schools and school-to-work partnerships. We also need regulatory reform. Too many small businesses can’t expand; tax reform may help that situation.”

Smith: “We need to be strategic; we need to ‘go green’. Focus on alignment between government and private sector. The cities and regions that are successful have their goals and objectives in alignment.”

Delman: “The County can participate to help increase jobs. Building trades have many open slots. We need to listen to those in local business districts regarding what is needed to help them do well. Instead of just saying we’re more business friendly, we need to welcome businesses back to the county and city.”

Kahl: “At the state level, there needs to be equity between large and small businesses. Guaranteed loans could help set up green businesses here. If we want to attract more business here, we need to fix bad roads and support our schools.”

Adams: “Businesses won’t move here, or choose to grow if citizens are concerned about public safety. Gang violence is up; the Mayor’s budget does not include uniformed [gang detail] officers. We have investigators and counselors working on the situation, but the program has no teeth. I want to get officers, five of them, on the streets working on the gang issues.”

Transferring county bridges to METRO

Q Do you support the transfer of Multnomah County bridges to Metro? If not, how would you distribute the costs?

Cruz: “This isn’t an issue dealt with in the State legislature.”

Middaugh: “Don’t know if a transfer to Metro is the right answer; but we do need a way to have other counties help pay for bridges their citizens use.”

Milesnick: “I do hope the state will take an interest. Macadam is a State Highway. 65 percent of the people that cross the Sellwood Bridge are from Clackamas County.”

Fish: “We need some kind of bridge authority. One city and county can’t shoulder the total cost. Bridge authorities have been used successfully in other municipalities. Metro may be the right place. But, we need to act quickly; the Sellwood Bridge is rated as the ‘least safe’ in the state.”

Smith: “I do support regional bridge authority; maybe not Metro. We need a regional solution to this problem.”

Delman: “Metro should be the new government entity given the responsibility for the bridges. They are supposed to be the new regional transportation government. However, Multnomah County should retain ownership.”

Kahl: “Counties should not own, and be forced to maintain, bridges any longer. The State legislator has a role to play. I’m perfectly fine with handing it off to Metro or creating a regional authority. The problem is that no political institution wants to step up and take the liabilities.”

Adams: “The answer is a regional authority. How to convince [other governmental entities] to take on ‘our problem’ is the question. We have to be willing to care about their problems as well. For example, Clackamas County needs support as they develop the Sunrise Corridor.”

Less trash; more recycling

Q There is a growing amount of trash on the streets; it seems that businesses aren’t doing their part in recycling. If elected, what will you do?

Adams: As part of negotiating agreements with the next trash hauling contract, I want to see more public garbage cans and public recycling cans. It is more in keeping with our progressive values.”

Kahl: “This is more of a city/county concern. I did craft a cell phone recycling program for the county.”

Delman: “The County can beef up its legislative agenda and fine companies that do not meet recycling goals.”

Smith: “I think we’re heading in the right direction.”

Fish: “We should support existing laws and recycling efforts. I’m in favor of increasing littering fines.”

Milesnick: “I propose an Environmental Justice Committee. They would represent cities, and go after polluters.”

Middaugh: “Require a deposit on cigarette butts. Actually, we need greater incentives to do a better job with waste. Solar powered compacting garbage cans might be the answer; local businesses can build them.”

Cruz: “From the perspective that someone who has been involved in the war, almost no one is making sacrifice. In WW2, people saved everything and recycled it. They sold war bonds to pay for the war. People are too lazy to separate glass from plastic; commingled recycling costs more. We need a greater sense of personal responsibility and shared sacrifice.”

Wrapping up the session, Turner said, “Are YOU registered to vote? This year, your voice will be heard at the ballot box – but only if you participate.”

Learn more about the East Portland Chamber of Commerce by CLICKING HERE.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

No more joyous celebration can be found than at a
pirate’s weddin’ – and we’ve got the photos to prove it!

After exchanging vows at their pirate wedding on the Willamette River, Chipper tugboat Capt. Mad Jack (Stiles) prepares to take his friends, Amethyst, Queen of the Pirates (the new Mrs. Amy Hardin), and Capt. William the Wicked (Bill Hardin), upriver to celebrate with friends.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
The Willamette River was calm and peaceful as Captain “Mad Jack” Stiles maneuvered the tug Chipper, and the wedding barge lashed to its bow, up to the dock at Sellwood Riverfront Park on April 17.

“A perfect day for a pirate weddin’, don’t you think?” asked the colorfully attired captain, as the wedding party came on board and prepared for the water-borne ceremony.

At the appointed time, nearly 100 pirates were gathered on the shore, dock,and barge to see Amethyst, Queen of the Pirates, and Captain William the Wicked, tie the knot.

Preacher Mike began the ceremony, speaking in the finest pirate brogue, proclaiming, “We have been summons’d here to witness the crime of matrimony. More valuable than money, in this ceremony we will see offered the gift of eternal love. This gift of love is more valuable than any treasure.  It’s stronger than any wind; it’s more intoxicating than the finest grog.”

The pirate pair exchanged vows of eternal love and fealty, exchanged rings, and promised to share any future plundered booty. Then, the newlywed pirates received the well wishes of their rowdy pirate mates. Firecrackers substituted for a black-powder salute – and the happy couple broke out a bottle of fine rum.

Nearly 100 pirates gathered on the barge, dock, and shore to wish the newly-joined pirate pair well.

Not a publicity stunt
No, the ceremony wasn’t a publicity stunt for some new high-seas adventure movie. Indeed, we learned, the wedding was authentic – even if the pirates were not.

Before the couple – and their closest crew members – next set sail for the Sellwood Public House, we asked William the Wicked – a/k/a Bill Hardin – “Is getting married the pirate thing to do?”

“Arrrr,” the captain replied with a grin and a wink, “I shouldn’t have, but I did!”

Amethyst, Queen of the Pirates (the new Mrs. Amy Hardin), told us she and her new husband both work in the hospitality industry.

As colorful a ceremony as one would expect from a scene from a pirate movie, the new Mr. and Mrs. Hardin said a pirate wedding was the “natural thing for them to do”.

“We’ve been doing pirate parties with Mad Captain Jack almost seven years,” Amethyst explained. “William and I became close friends over the years, and became a couple, living on a boat together down at the Waverley Marina. Having a pirate weddin’ seemed like the natural thing to do.”

With that, the party sailed into the sunset, and will hopefully live happily ever after.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News Service

What kind of person is it who can stay kind and calm at a time when distressed, panicked – or just plain nutty – people call ‘911’? Read this, and meet Portland’s ‘Telecommunicator of the Year’ …

Portland City Commissioner Randy Leonard thanks City of Portland Bureau of Emergency Communications workers for work well done during the year.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Earlier this month, the City of Portland Bureau of Emergency Communications (BOEC) proudly honored the men and women who serve as public safety dispatchers (9-1-1) during National Public-Safety Telecommunications Week.

As we met with her at the Sheraton Airport Hotel, the BOEC spokesperson, Jacquie Carson, told us, “We’re celebrating the outstanding work our employees perform all year long. Many people don’t stop to think about these individuals until they experience an actual emergency themselves. These professionals make the difference between life and death in many instances.”

Portland City Commissioner Randy Leonard and Portland Fire & Rescue Lt. Alan Bronson congratulate the BOEC Telecommunicator of the Year, Kim Bronson, as does her daughter (and Portland Police Bureau Officer) Cassandra Tebo.

Portland’s ‘Telecommunicator of the Year’
Before the dinner program, we had the opportunity to meet and talk with Kim Bronson, BOEC’s Telecommunicator of the Year.

“This is a real honor,” Bronson said modestly. “It’s an honor because I’m proud to have been associated with this bureau for the last 12 years. I think that everybody who does the job knows that is difficult.”

Most important to her, Bronson commented, “is making sure that every call I received is handled in a way that the caller is satisfied to be getting the best of what I can do. It is a real feeling of satisfaction at the end of the day knowing I’ve really helped someone.

“Another part is making sure the officers and firefighters are safe when they are working in the community.”

Bronson admitted she has a personal stake in helping to assure the safety of cops and firefighters. “My daughter is a Portland Police Officer, my husband is a Portland Fire & Rescue Lieutenant. We’re a family who is proud to serve our community.”

Jacquie Carson, BOEC Public Information Officer, congratulates Victoria Seifert; she was selected as their “Outstanding Team Member”. “I’ve now been there for just a little over a year,” Seifert says. “To receive the award so soon after being employed here is quite an honor.”

Reduced ‘on-hold’ time commended
“These men and women are great,” Portland City Commissioner Randy Leonard told us before the dinner. “I’m glad to have had their bureau in my office’s portfolio for the past six years.”

Additionally, serving as a firefighter for 25 years – and having a son who is a 9-1-1 call taker – Leonard said he has a personal connection with BOEC.

“As I’ve told people many times, we can have fully-staffed fire and police departments, but unless someone is there to answer the 9-1-1 call, and dispatch it efficiently, those resources don’t do much good. These people are the link that makes the difference between disaster and saved lives.”

Speaking at the dinner, Leonard further commended the group, saying, “I especially thank you for the work you’ve done to reduce the call holding times so significantly. Because of the efforts that all of you are undertaking, more people are going survive. I’m proud to represent you.”

Although we didn’t have the opportunity to meet her, Sherry Alexander was also honored as “Supervisor of the Year” at the event.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News