Find out where this year’s Portland Habitat for Humanity “Building Blitz” took place – and why families appreciate the new homes …
Maria Eby of Portland Habitat for Humanity, new homeowner Juana Nene, and Habitat for Humanity board member Susie Vischer here pause for a moment, as the 2008 Building Blitz is in full swing.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
What was only a vacant lot a few weeks ago is now a small development of single-family houses occupied by their new owners – not renters.
“Welcome to our 2008 Home Building Blitz,” we were greeted Maria Eby, Portland Habitat for Humanity Marketing and Special Events Manager. We were on the building site at SE Ogden Street, just west of SE 82nd Avenue of Roses.
This “blitz”, Eby said, was the local manifestation of an international event created by Habitat for Humanity. “We’re building five homes in seven days, with the help of five professional homebuilders. At the same time, other groups around the country will build a total of 263 homes. This means that, nationally, more than 1,000 people will be moving out of substandard housing into their new home.”
Construction workers and tradesmen of all kinds swarm over the East Portland building site.
Not a handout
The potential homeowners who come into the Habitat for Humanity program are currently living in substandard housing conditions, Eby said. “We give people who earn lower incomes the chance to become first-time homeowners.”
But, this program isn’t a form of welfare, she added. “This is absolutely not a handout; it’s actually a hand up,” explained Eby.
First, the participants must qualify, meaning they must have steady employment and good credit. “Once they are accepted into the program, they put in 500 hours of ‘sweat equity’ or community service on habitat projects. Then, they buy the home from us, with a ‘0% interest’ mortgage,” Eby continued.
Geoff Schumacher of Schumacher Custom Homes confers with furnace specialist Brad Bassitt, with Bassitt Heating, about the placement of ductwork in the new Habitat for Humanity home they’re building.
Pro builders volunteer services
Five teams of building contractors raced through the week to finish their assigned home on time.
One of the builders, Geoff Schumacher of Schumacher Custom Homes, took a moment to tell us why he was involved in the project. “We heard about the Blitz in ’06 – we took a look, and saw it as a great project, and wanted to get involved,” he said.
Schumacher said he was happy to be able to give back to the community. “And, the part I like best about my job – on an everyday basis – is handing the keys over to the new homeowner.”
What a difference a week makes! Just seven days later, these homes are finished, and ready for their new owners to move in.
Payments recycle into new houses
Because their mortgage payments are a maximum of 30% of the family’s income, Eby said, the housing is affordable. 100% of their mortgage payment on their house goes toward the equity – and it’s usually less than their rent payment had been. “They’re able to create a future for themselves that they’ve never been able to create before.”
Participants’ mortgage payments go into a rotating fund at Habitat for Humanity, allowing the organization to fund the building of more new homes, Eby explained.
Looks forward to spacious quarters
New homeowner Juana Nene took a break from working on her house. “Today I’m very nervous and excited. My sons have come today to work on my new house. It seems almost impossible; now I have a better future, and more room. Mucho moi bien.”
Juana Nene accepts the keys to her family’s new home from Sam Portesi of Buena Vista Custom Homes.
Seven days later …
A week later, we stopped back in at the site to see the dedication ceremony. One by one, the families came up and received keys to their new homes from the builder who coordinated its construction.
When it came time for Juana Nene to take the keys from Sam Portesi of Buena Vista Custom Homes, she asked that a prepared statement be read, because she was too nervous to speak:
“Even though we waited a few years, it’s been worth the wait. Thank you to all the companies and workers who donated their time and material to construct my house. This house was motivation for my son, José, to graduate from high school. Thank you very much. I really don’t have enough words to say thank you, and God bless you.”
Mt. Hood and Portland Habitat for Humanity merged
Then, few days ago, the organization announced that Portland Habitat for Humanity and Mt. Hood Habitat for Humanity have joined forces to become a single, larger, and more-effective organization. This newly formed affiliate, “Habitat for Humanity Portland/Metro East”, will serve the cities of Portland and Gresham, including all of Multnomah County and North Clackamas County.
Judith Huck, President of Classique Floors and previously board chair of Mt. Hood Habitat for Humanity, will serve as chair of the newly formed affiliate.
Find out more about this great organization by visiting www.pdxhabitat.org.
© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
Portland City Commissioner Sam Adams hasn’t missed a Midway Business Association open house. See what he had to say at the latest one …
“Mmmm, good pizza,” says Mayor-elect and Portland City Commissioner Sam Adams, at the Midway Business Association open house.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
A hearty band of business people in the southern portion of outer East Portland created the Midway Business Association with a mission: to encourage folks to buy locally, and improve the livability of their neighborhoods.
Every year, the organization hosts an open house and pizza luncheon at Bill Dayton’s Pizza Baron restaurant, as an outreach to business people and neighborhood leaders. And, every year, first a candidate, then a Portland City Commissioner, and now Mayor-elect Sam Adams has attended the event.
Working the room, Sam Adams meets new member Kyle Ziegler, owner of Carrie B’s Dance Shop, located in the Midway Shopping Center, as East Portland Chamber of Commerce Governmental Affairs chair Ken Turner looks on.
“I’m pleased to say I’ve been every event since the inception of the organization,” Adams said as he talked briefly to the forty business people in attendance. “I look forward to coming back in the coming months and having a substantive discussion about how city government can be a partner with you.”
Adams congratulated the association for “doing a fantastic job here. The results are noticeable. I know that folks are going through tough times with this recession; I know people don’t have as much money to spend. Hang in there, and together we’ll pull ourselves out of this and enjoy better days ahead.”
Recognizing the current downturn in business, Sam Adams urges business people to work together toward better days.
Adams added that he was glad that the City government finally “came to its senses” and provided the umbrella organization for business groups, the Alliance of Neighborhood Business Associations (APNBA) with funding and full time staff members. Pointing out the APNBA’s Executive Director, Jon Turino, Adams added, “We’re making sure Jon has the resources necessary to help business associations grow.”
Heading off to another meeting, Adams took a couple of slices with him and promised, “I’ll be back to visit with you again.”
Midway Business Association president Bill Dayton reminded those present that, by working together, outer East Portland business people and neighbors can have a greater voice in local, regional and event state-level government.
“If we keep working together, we can improve the lives of everyone here in outer East Portland,” Dayton said.
Association President Bill Dayton, talks informally about the benefits of mutual association.
Next meeting is July 8
If you have business interests in this part of town, come learn all about this new business group dedicated to helping neighbors and businesses improve the southern end of Outer East Portland.
This month: David Edwards, speaking about keeping your business safe in troubled times. Remember, visitors ARE welcome, and the presentation is free (but you pay for your own lunch). The meeting runs from 11:45 AM until 1 PM at Bill Dayton’s PIZZA BARON Restaurant on SE 122nd Avenue, just south of Division Street. For more information, go to www.midwayba.com.
© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
Members of this fifth-grade class wrote it, acted in it – and even took their show downtown. Find out why …
Kevin Muir, the director of the “Hot Dog Musical Theater Company” – and a Lent School fifth grade teacher – welcomes guests to a performance of his class’s play, “EarthAlerth!”.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Fifth-graders aren’t known for having long attention spans. But, Kevin Muir, a Lent School fifth grade teacher, said “pre-production” for the musical play we were about to see began on “the first day of school”.
Muir, himself, is a product of Portland-area education. He graduated from Woodstock Elementary, Meriwether Lewis Middle, and Cleveland High School. “I was a lot of theatrical productions at school.”
Thinking they won a trip to Bermuda, Melani Norell, Betsy Rivera, Miguel Navarro and Alfredo Galindo-Lopez wonder why the resort to which they’ve been invited is just a poorly-painted set. Their host (from Pluto), Alan Morales (far right), tells the students of their impending fate.
Providing ‘meaningful experiences’
Throughout the year, in addition to reading, writing, and arithmetic lessons, the 24 members of his class came up with the storyline, wrote the play and songs, and choreographed the staging, Muir told us.
“The work is extremely meaningful and engaging,” Muir said. “We have five main characters, but also involved are set designers, electricians, custom designers, stage managers, public relations, historians, lighting designers, and the band.”
The best way they can think of to face being conscripted to perform in an off-planet circus is – a song and dance number!
It’s show time … on Pluto!
About the story …
“EARTHALERTH!” is a fanciful story about a handful of Earth kids who are tricked into traveling to the planet Pluto to be Cirque du Pluto Theater Company show named … “EARTHALERTH!”.
On Pluto, kids rehearse their roles in this show that “showcases” all that is wonderful and weird about their home planet, Earth. But, the evil villain, The Bananjelar (he looks remarkably like an adult-human sized banana), attacks the troupe – before leaving to destroy Earth.
Images of Earth are featured in the Cirque du Pluto Theater Company show called “EARTHALERTH!”.
The kids race back to Earth, and in a mighty (funny) battle with The Bananjelar, they save their planet – and learn that Bananjelar is really a misunderstood fruit.
The greater themes of common sense and courage and strength are woven through the play; all these are qualities that Muir said he hopes to instill in his students.
The Earth kids confront The Bananjelar.
Before we saw the show, on May 28, the production company headed downtown to perform their outer-space adventure at the Winningstad Theater. We took in a later presentation at Lent School.
Serving diverse students
After the hour-long energetic and fast-paced show, Muir said he enjoys teaching at Lent School, located in one of the oldest and most diverse neighborhoods in the city.
“I’m determined not to let the children’s demographics inhibit their ability to learn,” stated Muir. “This hands-on model of learning is both engaging and stimulating to students. Too often, education lacks a connection with the community; through this play, my students are able to work with individuals and groups from beyond the school, and then take their product out to the world. To me, that is the essence of a meaningful education.”
What play will be created by his next fifth-grade class?
“We’ll all find out in September,” Muir said. “Check in with us next school year.”
Back on Earth, The Bananjelar chills out, and the kids decide he’s not so bad after all!
© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
Want to see how outer East Portland neighbors are planning to turn 35 acres of freeway-locked land into a nature park? We’ll tell you about it here and show you where to see their presentation for yourself …
Gill Williams, landscape architect, David Evans and Associates, shows the supporters of the Gateway Green Initiative slides of a document the firm hopes will persuade several governmental entities to be favorably inclined toward this project.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Hopefully, when you’re driving along the freeway in outer East Portland, you been watching traffic – and not ogling the strip of land running along side Interstate 205 from the Gateway Transit Center north to Rocky Butte.
But, if neighbors and parks supporters have their way, this hidden property might become an accessible, 35-acre nature area called “Gateway Green”.
A couple of weeks ago, we met with supporters of the initiative, as they prepared to unveil their proposal in a presentation at Adventist Medical Center.
“We’re presenting the final vision for Gateway Green Initiative,” reported Gill Williams, landscape architect, David Evans and Associates. “This is more of a ‘vision document’ than a promotional piece. It portrays the idea behind the vision, and the rationale for it as well.”
Ted Gilbert, Karla Keller and Linda Robinson look at the draft plan for the Gateway Green.
The presentation, made into a 27-page report, states the purpose of the initiative succinctly: “To transform an underutilized property into a regional asset that provides open space and recreational opportunities, while demonstrating Portland’s and Oregon’s commitment to sustainability.”
The document will help the initiative’s advocacy groups share their vision, and garner support among officials in the Portland Development Commission, Portland Parks & Recreation, and especially the Oregon Department of Transportation – they own the property.
Many folks on board
“There are a lot of biking and recreational groups that are interested in seeing this developed,” Williams noted. “There are individuals like Linda Robinson, a good advocate for open space and parks.” He added that developer Ted Gilbert – a noted Gateway booster – is also enthusiastic about the project’s potential.”
Moving into Phase II
“We’re in the initial phase of preparing this initiative,” Gilbert commented. “We’re looking at a five to 10 year – or beyond – timeline for implementation of some of the bigger elements. There are some pretty substantial monetary commitments required. Within the first two to five years, there’s real potential for actually seeing some development.”
Take a look:
The Gateway Green Initiative appears to be a well thought-out plan. If you’re interested, take a look. Just CLICK HERE to see a PDF of the document they’ve created.
© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
Find out why ROSE Community Development is getting ready to pitch a plan to the PDC for developing the Lents Little League baseball field – and what neighbors say they really want built there …
Joseph Readdy, of SERA architects, listens, while ROSE Community Development Corp. executive director Nick Sauvie sets the stage for the workshop at Wattles Boys & Girls Club.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
City officials have talked about the redevelopment of the Lents Neighborhood area for years. Yet, the large parcel of land at the corner of SE 92nd Avenue at SE Harold Street – currently home to the Lents Little League – remains undeveloped.
This Spring, ROSE Community Development Corporation (ROSE) held two workshops regarding the potential development of this property.
Using drawings like these, neighbors shared their ideas regarding how best the Lents Little League field can be developed. The red block is the area to be developed.
Not PDC meetings
First and foremost, stressed ROSE’s executive director Nick Sauvie, when we talked with him at their “Field of Dreams” workshops held at the Wattles Boys & Girls Club, was that:
- The “Field of Dreams” Workshops were not Portland Development Commission (PDC)-sponsored events; and,
- ROSE has not been selected as the development team.
Preparing to present
After the workshops, we asked Sauvie to explain what ROSE was doing, regarding this site.
“The PDC intends to begin a process to select a developer for the site later this year,” Sauvie began. “The first workshop was used to get general input from community members about the site, neighborhood context, and urban design issues. The second workshop took that input and started to incorporate it into design ideas.”
Their organization, Sauvie explained, was created out of the efforts of Southeast Portland people who take the needs and desires for improving the community seriously. “That’s why were went the extra mile and held these workshops early in our process.”
Curt Schultz, principal, SERA architects, leads a group discussion about ideas already gathered regarding the site’s potential development.
New to commercial development
Because ROSE has a solid track record with Lents-area residential development projects, we asked Sauvie if he sees potential challenges.
“One thing that will be new for us,” Sauvie responded, “if we do this project, is that it will have significant commercial component to it. Our mission is building the neighborhood and strengthening its economy. The commercial development is part of the project, and will be our first large venture in economic development.”
Ideas and comments
We asked Sauvie to “boil down” all of the comments and suggestions they heard during the workshops and share ideas he thought were significant. He shared six of them with us.
- There is support for a mixed-use development that will make the Lents Town Center a livelier place, and provide more destinations, such as restaurants and cafes.
- The residential component should include both homeownership and rental, for a mix of incomes and household types.
- Provide a permanent home for the Lents International Farmers Market.
- Many people would like to see a grocery store somewhere in the Town Center.
- He would like to see local businesses and services emphasized, not chain stores.
He added that public spaces should be well conceived and maintained.
At another table, Joseph Readdy, SERA architects, makes sure he understands a neighbor’s idea for the site.
Next steps
“It’s very early really in the process,” stated Sauvie. “The PDC has not yet issued their Request for Proposal. Hopefully that’ll happen sometime this summer. As a best guess, the PDC might receive proposals and make decisions sometime before the end of the year.”
We later learned that the PDC officials say they will issue a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) to solicit proposals from development teams no earlier than summer 2008. The RFQ process is intended to generate interest from many development teams, all of whom will be rated competitively. Any questions about the RFQ process should be directed to Justin Douglas, (503) 823-4579, or douglasj@pdc.us.
© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
Looking at the wreckage from the NE 102nd Avenue overpass, the railroad cars on the bridge high above the I-84 freeway were definitely tilted – and cars under the bridge were lying on their side. Find out exactly what happened, right there …
The derailment of this train shook up neighbors, and snarled traffic on two freeways – and on NE 102nd Ave. as well.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
A little after 7:00 a.m. on Thursday, June 24, Parkrose Heights resident David Green said he had just gotten home after working his graveyard shift when he heard a “troubling” sound coming from the freeway and railroad canyon just to the north of his home.
“It was a loud, screeching, grinding noise,” Green told us. More than just the noise, “You could feel a vibration, then a big thud. It wasn’t like an explosion, just a really big thud.”
Despite the noise, he went to bed. While Green slept, hundreds of motorists found themselves locked into nightmare of a traffic jam.
Green said he didn’t think much about it until he woke up in midafternoon and walked over the NE 102nd Avenue viaduct – just south of NE Fremont Street – that takes neighborhood traffic above the I-205/I-84 interchange – and the Union Pacific Railroad tracks.
Although no one was injured, the damage to railcars and the rails was extensive.
Cars akimbo
Dozens of spectators were lining the overpass, looking at the derailed train below, when we arrived and met Green. Railroad cars below us, on either side of the bridge, were lying on their sides; other cars were off the tracks and leaning southward.
Directly below us, on the east side of the bridge, the hardened steel rails were sheared in two – as if cut by a giant pair of tin snips.
Of greater concern to Oregon Department of Transportation, though, were the rail cars – teetering sideways by a few degrees, on the fly-over railroad bridge, high above eastbound I-84. Because of the precarious angle of the railcars, ODOT shut down ramps connecting westbound I-84 to I-205 until 11 a.m.
Many bystanders speculated about the cause of the derailment; police and fire officials had no comment, because the incident took place on privately-owned land – that of Union Pacific Railroad.
It looked as if the rails were cut by a giant pair of tin snips.
Broken wheel causes derailment
In the past, we’ve been stonewalled when asking questions regarding railroad-related incidents. In a refreshing turn of events, we were able to speak with a Union Pacific Railroad spokesperson, Zoe Richmond, who proved candid and forthcoming.
“Early on, there was speculation it was a track issue,” reported Richmond. “But preliminary reports indicate the derailment was caused by a broken [railcar] wheel. The train kept going along the track until it reached the curve [under the NE 102 viaduct, heading around the base of Rocky Butte]. It ended up derailing.”
The cars were so heavily loaded – but within safety standards – that the broken wheel sliced the ties, then shredded the track, derailing many of the train’s 36 cars. These fully-loaded lumber cars weigh as much as 140 tons each, Richmond added.
“Indeed, the derailment happened on private [railroad owned] property,” Richmond confirmed. “And, we’ve been working with local and state authorities to make sure there are no safety impacts. We’ve got a big job to do, and we’re working to get it done as quickly and safely as possible.”
Each of these lumber cars weighs in at 140 tons – or more.
On-site injury confirmed
A spectator on-scene told us they saw a railroad worker injured when a chain, being lifted by a portable crane, came loose from a coupler, and knocked him to the ground.
“We had an employee, in the Car Department, involved in an accident, and he received facial lacerations,” Richmond candidly confirmed. “I don’t have all of the details, but a piece of equipment injured him; he is being treated. We are evaluating the situation. Safety is our Number One priority.”
With the railcars stalled on the bridge spanning the Banfield Freeway, ODOT closed the road while workers labored to clear the bridge.
Clean up efforts ongoing
Although they’d hoped to have the rail cars moved from the tracks Thursday night, June 26th, the cleanup and salvage efforts will take longer, Richmond admitted.
“After our work on Thursday night and early Friday morning, we could see this was going to take longer than we’d expected,” said Richmond. “We didn’t want to be a burden to the [Friday] morning commute, so we’ll be working on it again during the evening hours tonight [June 27th].”
ODOT said to be aware that they’ll close down I-84 again on Friday night, while crews remove the remaining railcars; and they may need to shut down the freeway again if necessary during the rest of the weekend.
© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
The beauty and detail evident in their work is the result of craftsmanship that’s been passed down over two centuries. Read this, and learn why you should consider taking a look in person …
Min Zhu and Jimmy Cheng hold a large porcelain bowl – said to be the largest of its kind in production. After they set it down, Mr. Zhu tapped it with his finger — it rang like a bell!
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
The largest traveling display of Chinese porcelain and ceramic art – and its only stop in the United States during the current world tour – isn’t at a museum or Pearl District showroom.
This fascinating exhibit is currently showing in SE Portland.
One doesn’t need to speak or read the Chinese language to appreciate the beauty and scope of the exhibition, brought to this country by Yu Xiang Porcelain Co. Ltd. in Jingdezhen, China, and currently on display at Eastport Plaza on S.E. 82nd Avenue of Roses.
To learn more about this intriguing combination of museum and store, we enlisted the aid of restaurateur Jimmy Cheng from Grand Buffet to act as our interpreter, when we met the company’s manager, Min Zhu.
One of the antiquities Min Zhu brought to Portland is this stone carving of the Buddha’s head, made by an artisan in Jingdezhen.
Gave “China” its name
The artisans who produced porcelain and ceramic art and dishware for emperors and dignitaries for over 2,000 years didn’t realize they were inadvertently giving their country the name Westerners call now it.
“We call our nation Zh?ngguó,” Zhu began. Literally translated as “Middle Kingdom”, the compound [two pictogram] word means “the center of civilization” – which they were, while most of Europe was in the Dark Ages, and the “new world” of the Americas was yet to be discovered by Europeans.
This jade dragon shows the craftsmanship currently being done by Chinese artisans. The spider in front represents happiness for what you have, the five bats on the back are a symbol of very good luck.
“Our city of Jingdezhen [also Jingde Zhen] has been the location of the Imperial Kiln and the center of ceramic production since the early Han Dynasty,” related Zhu. “When our ancestors took our ceramics to Europe, and were asked of their origin, they said the name of our city. To Europeans, it sounded like ‘China’. Thus, Jingdezhen-produced ceramics from the nation of Zh?ngguó became known as China, and our people became known as Chinese.”
This vase is a replica of one presented to US President Richard Nixon. The temperatures when firing are precisely controlled, to keep the colors vibrant as they flow down the face of the vase.
Thin as paper
Jingdezhen was one of the four major towns in ancient China, we learned. In addition to historically dominating the development of ceramic arts, it is currently the epicenter of high-quality porcelain production today.
“They say Jingdezhen ceramics are as white as Jade, as thin as chime”, said Zhu. “Most ceramics are fired at 1,000°. But Jingdezhen kilns are much hotter, about 3,200°. Being so hot, the material gets very dense and strong. They will last much longer than other ceramics.”
In fact, Zhu said, virtually all the ceramics and porcelain on display in museums around the world were made by craftsman in his town.
This ornate, delicate porcelain vase shows fine detail and rich coloring.
Bowl rings like a bell
Zhu and Cheng walked over to a 3-foot-diameter porcelain bowl decorated with red dragons and blue waves. We caught our breath as they held up this giant piece of exquisite, translucent porcelain wear.
“See how extremely thin and delicate it is?” asks Zhu. After they set it down, he tapped the rim and it rang like a bell – and continued to reverberat for about 20 seconds.
“These are the largest [porcelain bowls] in the world,” stated Zhu. “They are very difficult to make, even for a very experienced artisan. These artists might make a hundred, or thousand of them, before they make one that is right. Then, one day, their hand is so steady, it’s like God gives them the strength and power to make this beautiful bowl.”
Modestly-priced one-of-a-kind works of art are available for purchase at the unique exhibition at Eastport Plaza on S.E. 82nd Avenue of Roses.
Ancient treasures on display
In addition to the ceramic works offered for sale, Zhu also brought stone carvings and other works of art, many of them hundreds of years old.
“We have samples of our arts and culture – these colorful and splendid ceramic works and handcrafts that represent our craft – to help the people of Portland gain a better understanding Jingdezhen porcelain,” Zhu said.
Unlike in a museum, in this case you can take home an original work of art – items are on sale ranging from $10 to $100,000 in value. “It’s wonderful for people to come and look,” commented Zhu. They don’t have to buy anything. Just come see this wonderful artistry from China.”
The exhibit and sale is open every day from 10 a.m. until 9 p.m. through August 10. Both are located at the north end of Eastport Plaza. Children are welcome – but do keep a watchful eye on them!
© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
Why is this ‘stationary carnival’ more popular than ever? Find out what we learned, when we stopped by their birthday party …
Erica, Alexia, and Kayla (she’s also having a birthday today!) Jimenez are here enjoying a slice of Oaks Amusement Park 103rd Anniversary cake.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
For people who live in most cities of our size, the only time folks can take a spin on thrill rides, play midway games, and see live entertainment, is when a carnival comes to town.
Fortunately, Portlanders can “get away from it all” all summer long – as they have for 103 years – at historic Oaks Amusement Park.
Emily McKay, promotions manager, cuts cake for guests visiting them during their 103rd anniversary celebration.
Celebrating 103 years of fun
Built by the Oregon Water Power and Railway Company, it opened on May 30, 1905 – making it one of the oldest continuously-operating amusement parks in the nation.
“It’s important to celebrate Oaks Park,” said Emily McKay, promotions manager for the park, “because coming here to play has been a Portland tradition since the days of the horse and buggy. When you come here, you get to see what Portlanders experienced so many years ago.”
Amusement rides – old classics and new state-of-the-art ones – stand side-by-side at the park.
When we visited during the park’s anniversary celebration on June 7, we were reminded how well it has blended the thrills of today’s high-tech rides with the more genteel pastimes of yesteryear.
As we strolled around the midway, McKay pointed out, “We’ve taken care of our classic rides; some of them have entertained guests for more than 60 years. And, we’ve added new, exciting rides for the brave.”
This historic roller-coaster still thrills Oaks Park patrons.
Acres of recreation
The 44-acre park is more than just rides, McKay reminded us. “The roller skating rink, the largest in the country, has been here for 102 years. It’s the last rink in the world to feature live music played on a Wurlitzer theater organ. Today’s kids may not know it, but their great-grandparents may have enjoyed the same rink.”
In addition to hosting events such as the Multnomah County Fair, and Oktoberfest, the park offers special areas in which many companies, organizations, and large families host catered picnics under the oak trees for which the park is named. And Oaks Park sells a wide variety of reasonably- priced “fair fare” to hungry carnival goers.
And, an area overlooking the Willamette River provides picnic tables dedicated to families who bring their own basket lunch.
Kids of all ages can take a leisurely spin around the park on the miniature railroad train.
Expecting a bustling summer season
With fuel prices soaring, McKay said they expect many people will stay in town. “There are no gate admission, parking, or picnic fees. We want folks to come have a safe, wholesome day with their families.”
We asked McKay why she seemed so enthusiastic about her job. “I’m in love with it; I’ve come here almost every day since I was six years old. I’m sure your family will love it too.”
Oaks Amusement Park, once a for-profit family business, but today in the permanent care of a nonprofit corporation established to benefit Portland by its former owners, is located near the foot of S.E. Tacoma Street.
They’re open Tuesday through Sunday. For more information, we’ll take you to their web site of you CLICK HERE!
Some of the Oaks Park rides – like this one – are not for the timid.
© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
The program was both delightful and moving – for several reasons.
Read this, and see why …
Members of the Parkrose High School Thespian Troupe 1783 perform “Reality Check I”.
Story and (some) photos by David F. Ashton
As the lights dimmed, the background music faded, and the curtain at the Parkrose High School Theater rose, the applause was for the student actors of Parkrose High School Thespian Troupe 1783 themselves, not for the roles they were about to play.
To start off the evening, the cast of “Reality Check I” – a show that uses humorous skits to demonstrate good behavior, performed at Parkrose’s Sacramento, Shaver, and Russell Elementary schools this spring – presented their show. Although written with young kids in mind, the humor held up for the largely adult audience.
Derek Herman entertains with a moving solo performance. Patrick Smith Photography
Incoming troupe president Tom Crawford performs his solo “reading” – it wasn’t read; it was well-acted. Patrick Smith Photography
This hilarious musical theatre piece from “Spamalot” was deftly performed by Jacquelle Davis & Steven Ennis. Patrick Smith Photography
Induction and awards ceremony
Members of the troupe were invited onto the stage. When seated, they donned the ceremonial cap.
Intermingled with the telling of the thespian tradition, student actors performed moving readings, a duo guitar piece by Jason McGhee & Jacob Pratt, and a never-to-be forgotten (it was that good) adagio dance number.
Yes, your reporter was privileged to wear the ceremonial cap – light the candle – take the pledge, and become an honorary member of the troupe. Patrick Smith Photography
In addition to the official induction ceremony, presentation of awards, honor stoles, and graduating senior awards, both Parkrose High School band teacher Michael Tolon and David Ashton, editor of East Portland News, were made honorary members of Thespian Troop number 1783.
Introducing the incoming officers: (back row) Tom Crawford, President, Junior; Brian Fitzgerald, Vice President, Junior; Heather Grassel, Historian, Sophomore; (lower level) Mackenzie Billick-Smith, Secretary, Sophomore; Kiely Simmons, Oregon State Board Member, Junior; Ciera Willis, Clerk, Junior; Derek Herman, Historian, Junior. Of course, when school starts this fall, they’ll be in the next grade!
After the ceremony, the actors, their family and friends retired for a reception fit for a Hollywood actor. Patrick Smith Photography
My special thanks to Patrick Smith for the photos – we were a bit occupied during the ceremony!
© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
While most kids flock to the Internet, you might be surprised to see how some young people choose to communicate the old-fashioned way – on paper …
Nicole Georges, a confirmed ‘zine publisher, shows some of her work at the Woodstock Branch Library class.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Many young people are drawn toward Internet communications, with websites slicked up with modern computer technology. Yet, other kids are drawn toward a quainter form of publications. They call their printed publications ‘zines – short for magazines.
At Woodstock Branch Library, ‘zine expert Nicole Georges is holding a class.
“We’re learning about how to make our own ‘zine,” Georges tells us.
She says a ‘zine is a self-made publication. It is usually created by an individual, but sometimes is produced by a group.
They rarely make a profit, she says, “The key is passion. ‘Zines are created and produced purely out of passion for a particular topic. The subject matter can be about anything.”
In addition to sharing how-to tips, Georges brought supplies and many samples to share with the class.
Physically Georges tells us, they can take a variety of forms. Sample ‘zines she shows the class range from very simple looking pamphlets, to sophisticated, full-color artist’s books.
Although young, Georges says she learned how to make ‘zines 14 years ago. “I’ve learned how to create and distribute them through trial and error.” Today she teaches a five-step method for creating a ‘zine.
Here’s how to make a Zine:
- Write – “It all starts off with writing. What are your ideas? What can you write passionately about?” she asks the class. When writing a ‘zine, she suggests thinking about what images could go with the text.
- Illustrate – “Draw, take photos, or use historical photos to illustrate your ‘zine. But be sure to make sure you have permission to use others’ images,” Georges instructs.
- Layout – Make a mock-up of the ‘zine before you do your final artwork, she recommends.
- Duplicate – Copy your pages, fold them into a ‘zine and staple.
- Distribute – “Your most immediate audience is your friends. But, now there are plenty of places that offer ‘zines for sale. Check out the ‘zine website,” explains Georges.
“The best, and most important part of ‘zines – is you!” says Georges.
Don’t judge – write!
When we ask for her most important advice she gives to students, Georges thinks for a moment and says, “Most important thing is for students is to write for themselves and express themselves as much as possible. Don’t be afraid of doing it. Don’t be objective or inhibited. Write how you feel.
“The best part of ‘zines is … you!”
See her website at www.nicolejgeorges.com or see the group site, www.iprc.org
© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News Service
Although they came from far and wide, few vets checked out the information tables set up for them, but everyone seemed to be having a good time …
Mustering for the Colors Ceremony are representatives from Northwest Indian Veterans (NWIV) members Alvey Seyouma, NWIV V.A. Chair; Hopei Tribe from N. Arizona; Louis Pacheco, a Piute who served with the 7th division in Korea; Arnie Holt, president of NWVA, who served with the 101st airborne and member Kavel Kaval Federated tribes; Chuck Dougherty, a Vietnam veteran in the 1st Air Cavalry Division; Darwin Hartman, Cherokee; Vern Wilson, U.S. Army, who served at Ft. Lewis, Washington; and Bruce Brown, U.S. Army Chemical Corps in Maryland during Korean conflict.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Military veterans were treated to a day of picnic lunches, music, and politicians’ promises at Oaks Amusement Park a couple of weeks ago.
“Today we’re having a ‘welcome home’ celebration for our Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom veterans,” said Mike McAleer, Public Affairs Officer for Portland Veteran’s Administration (V.A.) Medical Center.
“We’ve invited them to come and learn about benefits and services available – we have over 35 tables set up where they can gather information about jobs, education, and V.A. benefits,” McAleer went on. “We’re happy to do anything we can to help these folks transition back home after their service to the government.”
One of the many volunteers giving out information bags is Kathy Hunt, who works at the V.A. in the Operative Care Department.
Cody Szabo with SuperDog – they catered the event – here, serving up hotdogs.
Giving a big ‘thank you’
The Bridgetown Big Band played World War II vintage melodies as veterans and their family members filtered into the area, marked off with a two-story high arch made of red, white, and blue helium balloons.
In addition to providing information, the event was planned to allow the VA to “Give our veterans a big thank you, and let them know we’re here for them and their needs – now that they’ve taken care of our needs,” said McAleer, a Vietnam-era veteran. “I also was in Iraq twice with the Army Corps of Engineers as a public affairs officer for the reconstruction we did over there.”
US Senator Ron Wyden takes a moment to talk with VA officials before he goes on stage.
Vets need more help, Wyden says
Then the band took a break, and V.A. officials and political dignitaries took the stage.
US Senator Ron Wyden started off by quipping, “For senators, a keynote speech usually lasts for an hour or so.” Wyden then turned to his hosts and said, “I’m afraid they think I’m serious!”
He continued, “In our country, we believe that those who honor us by wearing our uniform, and put themselves in harm’s way to defend our freedoms, should have good-quality health care when they come home. I think we have seen this at the Portland V.A., with the resources they have. But too often, the priorities are bent out of whack. There haven’t been the dollars for the doctors, the programs, and shortening the waiting lines, to make sure people get their services in a timely way.”
Wyden calls for more, and better, benefits for U.S. Armed Forces veterans.
Calls for ‘equal benefits”
Wyden complained that the “G.I. Bill” hasn’t kept pace with the times, especially in Oregon. “We don’t have the big military bases like they have back east. And so we don’t have the same number of folks in the active military. What we have is a tremendous number of courageous Oregonians who have gone into the National Guard and Reserve – and we now have one of the highest percentages in the country of people serving in the Guard and Reserve. And they don’t get the same benefits that you get under the G.I. Bill.
“If you’re a soldier, dodging the same bullets, in the same place, for the same length of time – you’re entitled to equal benefits. We want to get those for our soldiers who are serving our country.”
U.S. House Representative, fifth District, Darlene Hooley, on the Oaks Park stage to thank veterans’ family members for their sacrifices.
Hooley echoes sentiments
US House Representative, fifth District, Darlene Hooley followed, thanking the veterans present for their service to our country, saying, “You do us proud. You’re the ones who make sure that we have a safe country in which to live and keep our freedoms.”
Corbett Craig, First 327 101st Airbore from Ft. Campbell; “we were over in Iraq twice, each time for one year,” he said, as his face was painted by volunteer Paula Holmes.
After saying she agreed with Wyden’s remarks, Hooley added, “If you are a veteran’s family member, or a friend who has supported veterans, I thank you for the sacrifices you and your family have made.”
With that, the veterans and their family members were provided with hot dog lunches, with the opportunity to visit the information booths, and were given wrist bands allowing them to ride the thrill rides at Oaks Park for free.
We saw a few veterans picking up information provided by the 35 organizations that set up tables at the event.
© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
Folks along his street had only good things to say about this young man – but, see why he potentially faces up to 5 years in jail and a $125,000 fine …
All of his neighbors describe the young man who was arrested at this house as a responsible neighbor. They were surprised to learn he was accused of illegally selling fireworks.
Story and photo by David F. Ashton
Montavilla resident Leslie Roma-Smith says she was surprised on the night of June 19 to see a procession of law enforcement and fire bureau vehicles – even a bomb squad truck – pull up her street, and charge into her next door neighbor’s house.
It wasn’t until hours later that Roma-Smith learned that her next door neighbor apparently had a booming side business – selling illegal-in-Oregon fireworks on the Internet.
“He’s lived there for going-on three years. He’s been a really helpful, responsible neighbor. He works hard. And,” Roma-Smith reflected, “he does put on a good backyard July 4th firework display.”
Authorities say these “bad boys” of the firework kingdom are illegal – and selling them is also against the law – especially if the vendor doesn’t have the appropriate license. PF&R photo
Starts with Craigslist posting
“Several weeks ago,” Portland Fire & Rescue (PF&R) spokesman Lt. Rich Tyler began telling the story, “the Oregon State Fire Marshal’s office forwarded an investigative lead to PF&R investigators, regarding a posting on ‘Craigslist’, advertising fireworks for sale.”
E-mail exchanges between the alleged explosives seller and a member of the Metropolitan Fire Investigation Team (MFIT) set up the undercover purchase of large quantity of illegal fireworks, revealed Tyler. A subsequent search of a home at 130 NE 71st and two vehicles netted illegal fireworks with an approximate retail value of $10,000.
Most people wouldn’t consider these “Bottle Rockets” and “ladyfingers” to be “destructive devices” – nevertheless, they are illegal to use or possess in Oregon. PF&R photo
Subjects may get BIG fines … and jail time
The MFIT arrested two individuals in SE Portland for illegal firework sales, possession, and manufacture.
22-year-old Harvey Joe Edward Stevens, the home’s primary resident, was charged with Sale, Possession and use of Fireworks, a Class B misdemeanor – carrying a maximum penalty of 6 months in prison and a $2,500 fine. 35-year-old James P. Johnson was also charged. Both were booked and released.
Tyler said the Multnomah County District Attorney’s office – along with other agencies – are considering adding other charges, including Possession of Destructive Device,a Class C Felony, carrying a maximum penalty of 5 years in prison, and a $125,000 fine.
“A lot of work by the MFIT crew went into this operation,” PF&R’s chief investigator, Rich Stenhouse, stated. “Our focus is always on the protection of citizens and property in the City of Portland.”
We don’t know if MFI Team found evidence of fireworks manufacturing in the Northeast Portland home, but these fireworks – legal across the river in Washington, but illegal here – appear to be factory-made devices. PF&R photo
Other neighbors, who declined to be named, said that while the backyard July 4th fireworks shows were elaborate, they never felt in endangered by pyrotechnic displays. One added that he thought the authorities were “trying to make an example of Stevens” to curb other Internet sales.
Tyler countered, “As we enter fireworks season, firefighters from around the region would like to remind people to ‘Keep it Safe, Keep it Legal’.”
© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
