From the Benson Hotel, to the Hilton Hotel, and other top-drawer establishments in downtown Portland, see these David Douglas High School juniors getting a taste of working in the hospitality trade …

David Douglas High School students Jannette Young and Natalie Sutantodinata flank Rachel Huestis, Desk Manager at the Benson Hotel, as they learn to check guests into one of the city’s top lodging spots. The students look so professional, it’s hard to tell them from the manager!

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Moving from the theoretical to the realm of the practical, 62 Hospitality & Tourism section students from David Douglas High School fan out across Portland for their annual “job shadow” day.

Thanks to the efforts of the program’s coordinator, Debbie Page, these junior-class students aren’t sweeping floors at a burger joint or changing sheets at a the No-Tell Motel. Instead, they are getting a first-class introduction to the business at businesses named Benson, Hilton, Monaco, and Greek Cusina.

They feel the heat, but they’re staying in the Benson Hotel kitchen, as students Jamison Miller and Marie Thompson help Executive Chef Scott Krushner get plates ready for a 150-seat upscale luncheon banquet.

Full-day experience
As we walk among several downtown locations, instructor Debbie Page fills us in on the students’ day.

First, she tells us, the students aren’t bussed in – they’re each responsible for getting to their jobs at their assigned starting times. “It is an eye-opening day for students to see what it’s like to get up, dress according to their hosts’ requirements, and find their way their job, and be on time.”

Each student will spend four to eight hours on the job today, explains Page. “In addition to learning a specific job to which they’ve been assigned, they’ve asked specific hospitality-industry questions that they’ve researched, and write a report based on what they learned.”

Additionally, Page continues, their hosts will complete an evaluation form and give the students feedback at the end of the four- to six-hour workday.

Preparing for international service
By providing specialized training in high school, Page reveals, their students have can often enter the workforce at above entry level

“And, this is growing industry segment,” Page elaborates. “Hospitality and tourism is the fourth largest industry Oregon – and the second largest job market worldwide. Once these kids learn certain skills, they can go anywhere in the world, and get a good job.”

Thomas Feseha learns from Hilton’s assistant director of front office operations, Brad Noah. “He’ll be checking guests in and out, referring guests to meetings at various locations, and learning about what I think is the greatest department in this hotel,” says Noah.

Tucked away in the Hilton Hotel offices, James Tiet works with junior accountant, Julian Xiong, learning “how the revenues flow in and out of our business.”

Good start in the industry
Todd Schaeffer, Director of Human Resources at the Portland Hilton, says they look forward to “job shadow day” at their business.

We’ve developed a close relationship with the David Douglas Hospitality and Tourism Program,” Schaeffer says. “Five students will work in five departments here today.”

This work/school connection helps them, because some of the students in the program learn they can work at entry-level positions where they can work while they’re going to school, he adds.

Bill Tritt, Hilton’s assistant director of catering, shows Hanh Nguyen about his department. “We’re showing him what a great opportunity it is to join an industry where you can start at the bottom and work your way to the top,” says Tritt. “I’ve been in the business for 26 years – what started as a job turned into a great career.”

Ashley Ortiz learns about the Hilton’s housekeeping department from director Cyndi Matto. “In our department,” Matto tells him, “there are new challenges every day; no day is the same.”

“Others will join the industry after they get out of school,” Schaeffer adds, “and find there is a real opportunity for career growth. Not all students are college-bound. The hospitality industry gives students the opportunity to find a great career path.”

Job shadows lead to internships
Accompanying us on our downtown tour is David Douglas Career Center counselor Deb Murray.

“It’s a really good experience for our students,” says Murray.

Greg Pinetti, the front office manager at the Hotel Monaco, shows students Chris Harrel and Jordan Olsvik the finer points of checking guests into this posh downtown boutique hotel.

“Not only is it a requirement for students to participate in a junior-year job shadow,” Murray explains, “it gives them a ‘snapshot’ of what it will be like when they go out for their business internship as a senior. The job shadow requires them to dress and speak professionally, and to interact with adults.”

At the Greek Cusina

Jonathan Byers and Dusty Whipple serve Debbie Page, Hospitality Tourism teacher at David Douglas High School, and Deb Murray, Career Center, David Douglas high School.

We stop in at Portland’s famous Greek Cusina and check in with two students, already at work, preparing for the lunch rush.

“I like how a chill everyone is,” comments Jonathan Byers, one of two students working at the restaurant. “Everyone is very nice, and this place is really cool. I think I’ll like working in the hospitality industry a lot.”

Fellow student Dusty Whipple adds, “I think would be good to have a job here. We’re learning what you don’t get to see and learn in the classroom.”

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News Service

See the Metro Dancers, from Gateway’s Portland Metro Performing Arts Center, audition for “Alice in Wonderland” …

To land a part in PMPA’s “Alice in Wonderland” production, these future ballerinas must demonstrate they can quickly learn the dance steps they’ll need if they are chosen.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
The Portland Metro Performing Arts (PMPA) hall was filled both aspiring and studied ballerinas, when we visited a couple weeks ago.

These dancers, each wearing a number, were focused on the instructions given by the center’s Director, Nancy Yeamans, who was giving dance step instructions and playing snippets of music.

At a front table, three dance instructors watched how well the dancers, ranging in age from preschool to adult, could learn the combination of steps, and perform them in time with the music. After each section, these judges wrote down the numbers of dancers who could perform the steps well.

“We’re auditioning performers for the Metro Dancers’ presentation of ‘Alice in Wonderland’ show in April,” Yeamans told us.

Yeamans reminded us that the Metro Dancers is a regional dance company comprised of local pre-professional and professional dancers, now celebrating its 30th Anniversary Season. “Our performances of ‘Coppelia’, ‘La Fille Mal Gardee’, and ‘Les Ruses d’Amour’ have played to sold-out audiences,” she added.

Nancy Yeamans demonstrates a series of steps the dancers are expected to perform in time with the music she’ll play.

Working toward April 5 performance
This ballet version of “Alice in Wonderland” is appropriate for all ages, Yeamans told us. It features all of the classic story’s characters – in full costume – including the busy White Rabbit, the mysterious Cheshire Cat, and the domineering Queen of Hearts, as they romp through dance re-creation of Lewis Carroll’s “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland” and “Through the Looking Glass”.

It isn’t too early to consider buying tickets. There will be two performances at 2 pm and 7 pm on April 5 at Portland Center for the Performing Arts Newmark Theatre, 1111 SW Broadway.

Tickets are $20 for high school and adults, $14 for children. Reserve your seats by calling (503) 408-0604, emailing them at info@PDXMetroArts.org or pick them up at the PMPA box office at 9933 SE Pine Street.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News Service

See why this program, loaded with barbs and brags – presented live, on the radio – proves that politically conservative folks do have a sense of humor …

Don McIntire, president of the Oregon Executive Club sits with KPAM’s Victoria Taft at the Annual Taxpayer’s Academy Awards show – both live at the Shilo Airport Hotel, and on the air – gets underway.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
In most politically-oriented meetings we attend, politicians and those who are politically liberal take conservatives to task.

But at this event, The Annual Taxpayers’ Academy Awards, held this year on February 6 at the Shilo Inn Airport, it was the conservatives’ turn to take a swipe at people and policies they say are not working in the best interest of taxpayers.

‘Awards’ chosen by ballot
The event’s sponsors, Oregon Executive Club and Taxpayer Association of Oregon, sent ballots out to 10,000 individuals who were asked to nominate candidates for awards such as Wiener Politician, Pork Barrel Project, and Bureaucratic Bungler.

Conservative KPAM radio talk show host Victoria Taft served as the MC for the evening’s ceremony, which was also broadcast, live, from the event. Taft set the stage: “Tonight, we give awards to those most deserving – the biggest bungling politicians and decisions of the year.”

Victoria Taft enjoys roasting liberal policies and politicians at the event.

Pass the onions, please!
Sadly, and understandably, many of the award winners were not present to receive their awards in person. What follows is the opinion as stated by the hosting organizations, not necessarily the opinion of eastPDXnews.com, nor of our sponsors:

Golden Schnoz Award
Best example of government sticking its nose in other people’s business:

• Foster Parent Gun Rule – The Human Services Department tried to void second amendment gun rights for foster parents who had concealed gun permits.

Pork Barrel Project Award
The best example of government waste:

• Million Dollar Consultant Mistake – Went to the City of Portland for paying a consultant firm $900,000 to design and implement a study that would save the city money. The consultant came up with only $61,000 in savings.

State Representative Linda Flores sits in with Victoria Taft for a segment of the program.

Bureaucratic Bungler Award
Best example of government regulation, overreach, or bureaucratic mistake:

• Baby Gabriel goof-up – Not one, but two State of Oregon panels tried to separate 2-year old baby Gabriel from his Oregon foster parents, and send him to Mexico (where he has never been, and does not speak the language).

Wiener Politician Award
The most obnoxious, cowardly, or reckless elected official:

• Senate President Peter Courtney and House Speaker Jeff Merkley – The two legislative leaders approved an “astonishing 21% budget growth” with the help of $856 million in new taxes and 44 fee increases. To prevent future citizen dissent, they also passed tough new petition regulations making it twice as hard for citizens to petition their government. They sent voters an “anti-property rights ballot measure” (Measure 49) and an “anti-double majority protection ballot measure”, and “wrote their own highly deceptive ballot title”, according to the group.

Singing their praises

Thomas Jefferson Award
Awarded to Oregonians for advancing the principles of individual liberty and limited government in 2007:

• George Taylor, State Climatologist – In defense of science over politics: State Climatologist George Taylor has made national impact with his demonstrable problems with many global warming theories. Governor Kulongoski has been trying to use a technicality to forbid him from using the title State Climatologist, and left him out of the Governor’s Strategy for Greenhouse Gas Reductions.

Government Innovation Award
Best example of a government cost-saving or successful program:

• Feds inquire on missing Oregon roads – The Federal Highway Department made headlines when it criticized Metro’s transportation plan. The plan ignored people who drive cars, which was the primary purpose of the plan.

Excellence in Journalism Awards
These awards are chose by the governing official of the presenting organizations.

• “$1 billion can’t cut class size“, Scott Learn & Steven Carter, Oregonian;
• “Truth And Consequences”, (Measure 49 ballot title deception) Nigel Jacquiss, Willamette Week;
• “95% of drivers buckle up, so why the tickets?” ($1.5 million grant for non-problem) Ryan Knutson, Oregonian;
• “Are those cranes, or an inventory glut on the horizon?” (Continuing expose on Waterfront Project, for which Brainstorm Magazine accurately predicted in 2003 its fallout), Ellen Lewis, Brainstorm Magazine.

During a commercial break, some of the organization’s elite gather for a photo.

Straw poll skewed
Because the survey’s Presidential Straw Poll ballots were returned primarily in December, Jason Williams of the Taxpayer Association of Oregon said the results didn’t reflect current opinions.

At that time, Republican candidates John McCain lagged substantially behind Mitt Romney (who has since put his delegates in McCain’s camp), and Fred Thompson (who dropped out of the race in January). Tied for last place, not surprisingly for a conservative forum, were Illinois Senator Barack Obama and New York State Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News Service

If it passes, Multnomah County consumer car and truck registration fees will go up by nearly $50 per renewal; but commercial trucks get a free ride. See why the County Chair hopes you’ll vote for this tax anyway …

Explaining the county’s need for additional funds for bridge maintenance, Multnomah County Chair Ted Wheeler talks about the history of our aging bridges.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Multnomah County Chair Ted Wheeler is barnstorming the district, hoping citizens will shoulder the fiscal weight of fixing up the county’s sagging bridges.

At sparsely-attended a meeting in SE Portland on February 4, Chair Wheeler reminded attendees that the county, not the city, is responsible for all of the bridges that cross the Willamette River: the Broadway, Burnside, Hawthorne, Morrison, Sauvie Island, and Sellwood.

“These bridges range in age from 50 to 98 years,” Wheeler began. “Each day more than 180,000 vehicles cross the bridges, in addition to an estimated 12,000 bicyclists and thousands of pedestrians.”

Wheeler, supported at this meeting by County Commissioner Lisa Naito and staff transportation bureau staff members, said the county has a 20-year bridge repair capital shortfall of $490 million.

Chair Wheeler says the structural integrity of the bridges are at stake.

Reliability, integrity and seismic upgrades
“Four of our bridges have moveable lift spans,” Wheeler noted. “All machinery is old, and all of it needs work.”

The Broadway Bridge, he said, lifts and rolls back on big wheels. “When these bridges are repaired or upgraded, all of the parts must be custom made. We had a full metal shop at the base of the Burnside Bridge to custom make parts for that bridge.”

Wheeler next spoke about preserving the structural integrity of the structures and surfaces. “When you look at the corroded steel that needs replacement, the paint needed to help to preserve our bridges, and the deteriorating concrete on these bridges, it is clear we must take action.”

Additionally, the County Chair pointed out that these bridges need to be upgraded to modern seismic standards, too.

Calling the Sellwood Bridge the ‘poster child’ for bridges in need of repair, he says the fee increase will give the county money to leverage state and federal funds.

Sellwood: a ‘poster child’
“Of all the bridges that need attention,” Wheeler went on, “The Sellwood Bridge is the ‘poster child’. It was first opened in 1925. What many people don’t know is that it’s perhaps the nation’s first ‘green’ bridge – many parts used to build this bridge were recycled from the old Burnside Bridge when it was replaced.

Wheeler noted that the west end of this narrow bridge sags, has corroded steel and cracked concrete, and is too weak to support bus or truck traffic. “We estimate it will cost $300 Million, or more, to repair or replace this bridge.”

Sings the budget blues
Presenting the message long-sent by Portland City Commissioner Sam Adams, Wheeler bemoaned state’s limited per-gallon gas tax, without increase since 1994. “The revenue is flat, and our costs are up: The cost of asphalt is up 59%, steel up 128% and overall construction costs are up 85% since our last gas tax increase.”

The Board of County Commissioners, explained Wheeler, is considering referring a measure for the May ballot that would increase the county vehicle registration fee by $24 per vehicle, per year. Motorcycles will see a $12 per vehicle per year increase.

“The public has a fair right to say yes or no. We have the obligation to be honest about what it means it ‘live within our means’. If the increased fee is earmarked for roads and bridges, this measure looks best. It’s a straight up or straight down vote on whether or not to support this infrastructure.”

Multnomah County Commissioner Lisa Naito, county bridge project information officer Mike Pullen, and Chair Wheeler field questions.

Federal budget cycle causes urgency
Wheeler said $100 Million of the funds raised will be earmarked for the County’s share of the Sellwood Bridge project.

“We have to go to the regional and state government for funding; this measure doesn’t let the state or federal government off the hook. Federal Transportation Bill negotiations start this year; the next round is 6 years away. We need this money to help leverage federal funding.”

Questions and Answers

Q Many people from Clackamas, Washington and Columbia county use the Sellwood Bridge. Why not impose a toll?

A Wheeler: “I agree completely. We were pre-empted from charging tolls on County bridges when the state gave us the responsibility to care for the bridges. But, these bridges are undoubtedly part of the regional infrastructure picture. We need a Regional Bridge Authority. It is absurd that Multnomah County residents are solely responsible [to pay] for maintaining these bridges. We need the region to chip in.”

Q Commercial vehicles do more damage to bridges than consumer trucks or cars. Why aren’t they charged an additional licensing fee?

A Wheeler: “Commercial vehicles pay fees based on a different formula. We are, by state law, pre-empted from changing those fees.”

Q Why not an additional gas tax? Even visitors from out-of-state have to buy fuel.

A Wheeler: “There are very powerful lobbies involved. Big oil interests have deep pockets. Dealers will be upset in Multnomah County because they say a higher tax here will put them at a competitive disadvantage.”

Naito: “I think we can invoke a gas tax, but voters didn’t support it like they did the [increased] registration fee when we polled on the question. And, the state legislature is considering increasing the tax on gas to support state-wide transportation projects.”

Q What do you say to residents of the City of Maywood Park [landlocked within the City of Portland and in Multnomah County] who claim the fee increase is unfair because they’re being taxed for bridges they seldom use?

A Wheeler: All of the Maywood Park residents – if they get mail, or use goods and services that come into their community, make use of these bridges.  Secondarily, the bridges are a part of the regional transportation infrastructure. If a bridge goes down for extended maintenance, everyone will feel the impact.”

More meetings to come
In closing, Wheeler stated, “We have to be honest. If it doesn’t pass, we are where we are today. We will live within our means. We’ll reevaluate all of our projects in terms of maintenance and repair.

“The cost is $2 per month per vehicle. This is not something we take lightly. The alternate question is, ‘If not this, then what?’ I’m not trying to cram this down anyone’s throat. It is very important to the vitality and economic stability of the entire community.”

The remaining town hall events are scheduled for:

• Monday, February 11, 6 – 8 pm, Multnomah Building, Boardroom, 501 SE Hawthorne Blvd., Portland
• Tuesday, February 19, 6 – 8 pm, North Portland Health Clinic, 9000 N. Lombard Blvd., Portland

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News Service

Even though it was sheltered by apartment buildings, see what the wind did to this two-story tall tree – and to the building behind it …

The roots simply gave way, and allowed this tree to fall into the apartments behind it.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
The storm on the evening of Wednesday, February 6, kept many people awake, as wind-blown rain pelted their windows, rattled their doors, and swayed trees in their yards.

But the force of the wind did unexpected damage to an apartment building in the 3700 block of SE Francis Street, just south of SE Powell Boulevard, that night.

A resident of those apartments, later watching the cleanup work being done, commented “At first I thought it was just branches brushing against the awning, being blown by the wind. It seemed a little louder and then it was quiet. But then I heard voices outside, came out and took a look, and saw that the tree had fallen over into the apartment building.”

The damage to the structure appeared light; no one was injured in the incident. However several late-sleeping residents nearby came out to see why the noise of chainsaws and a chipper-grinder howled throughout the morning, as crews removed the tree.

Regular care can’t always prevent a tree from falling over, but care can be more cost-effective than simply letting one fall over and damage your building.

Inspection is cheaper than damage repair
We asked Rob Crouch, Urban Forest Coordinator, Portland Parks & Recreation, why an apparently sturdy tree might fall over, even though it was partially sheltered by the wind.

“It could be root rot, or a micro-gust of wind pushed it over,” said Crouch, adding that he hadn’t inspected the tree. “Rain-saturated soil could contribute to it being uprooted. But we have saturated soil every year here.”

Crouch recommended that property owners have a licensed arborist evaluate large trees every two or three years. “They can appropriately prune trees, and spot decaying and dying trees and provide preventative services. It’s a lot less expensive to have your trees evaluated than to removed from a building’s roof or walls after they’ve fallen.”

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News Service

New concept in patent care provides a lower treatment price, partners say. Learn about it all, right here …

Licensed acupuncturists and herbalists Mia Neuse and partner John Blank (here being treated) say they’ve found a way to make treatments comfortable and affordable.

Story and photo by David F. Ashton
Because even the best health insurance plans offer only limited acupuncture benefits, the co-founders of a new clinic say this health care alternative is often too expensive for folks of average means.

“This is our group room, a community room,” says partner Mia Neuse as we walk into a comfortable-looking room with five easy chairs. “It’s amazing how people enjoy a community setting. We treat families and couples in this room also.”

Offers lower-priced treatments
Because they can treat up to five people in their community room, Neuse says, they can charge between $15 and $25 per person, instead of the typical private rate of $65-$75.

John Blank, Neuse’s partner at the newly opened Montavilla Community Acupuncture Clinic, adds, “I’m treating a mother and four grown daughters in this room.”

“For some families, this is the most time they get to spend together,” comments Neuse, a licensed practitioner since 2005. “It’s a bonus that they can get treated, and have some peaceful time they can be with each other.  They say they really appreciate it.”

Black says he’s been practicing since 1991 and notes, “I’ve treated a lot of individuals and groups.”

Herbs and health counseling
In addition to acupuncture, Neuse explains that both she and her partner also provide counseling regarding health changes, and how Chinese herbs may help. “Chinese herbs have a 3000 year history. Herbs provide low interaction, and low risk levels. I also do bodywork, including shiatsu – I learned it studying in Japan. We also use heat therapy, liniments, salve, and other techniques that promote healing.”

Blank continues, “We treat a wide variety of health complaints. I think that says it all.”

Clinic partners reside in Montavilla
“Since we both live in the neighborhood, we looked around to find a space where we could set up a practice. We’re delighted to be opening her clinic here on Stark Street, in part of the building that once housed Dixon’s Pharmacy.”

Neuse adds, “John is one of my mentors. It’s a privilege to be working with him here.”

Open house February 16
From 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday, February 16th, the clinic is holding an open house to celebrate its opening. “Come on by and bring the family. Kids are always welcome here.”

Montavilla Community Acupuncture is located at 7925 SE Stark Street, next door to the Country Cat restaurant. Their web site is at www.montavillaacupuncture.com.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News Service

It’s called the “East Lents Floodplain Restoration Project”. Discover why citizens who live and work along outer SE Foster Rd. say they’re cautiously optimistic about the city’s effort to reduce flooding …

Many people turned out to learn more about the East Lents Floodplain Restoration Project, and share their concerns

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Remember early December rainstorms that caused outer SE Foster Road to flood and close for two days?

This flooding in the Lents Neighborhood is a symptom of a long-standing problem which the City of Portland’s Bureau of Environmental Services (BES) staff is working to resolve.

On January 22, BES staffers held an open house to discuss their plan to reduce flooding – the plan is called the “East Lents Floodplain Restoration Project”.

Lents neighbor Joyce Beedle talks with Marie Johnson, BES Program Coordinator for the Johnson Creek Watershed Program.

Extra channel to absorb storm surges
“We’re here to share with people the initial design work done,” Marie Johnson, BES Coordinator, Johnson Creek Watershed Program, tells us. “This is a project that will be built south of SE Foster Road, between the former Freeway Lands Company site and about SE 112th Ave.”

Looking at a proposed design map, we see they propose to build a new channel that snakes around existing properties. We ask if this project will impinge on established neighbors.

“Our design ideas take advantage of BES-owned properties,” explains Johnson. “We’ll use them to the extent we can – with the budget we have. It’s always been our assumption in this part of the project that we are working on BES property we currently own.”

Johnson again asserts that this is an early design. “There’ll be a lot more work on it as we go along.”

Timetable spelled out
The design work will happen over the next year or so, Johnson informs us, and then will go into the permitting process. Actual construction is scheduled for year 2010.

Here’s the early design project drawing for the plan floated by BES that will add an extension to Johnson Creek that is designed to absorb the higher levels of water produced by major storms.

Gives historical perspective on creek floods
Saying she’s witness to the history of the area, neighbor Joann Davis mentions that she grew up living close to Johnson Creek. “I now live within two blocks of where I grew up; my folks purchased in 1930 at SE 101st Avenue and SE Boise Street.”

While she doesn’t live directly on the creek, Davis says, “It affects my community. I remember when Johnson Creek used to flood much worse than it does now. A lot of the kids I went to school with were flooded out every year.”

Comparatively speaking, Davis goes on, “things now are very good. Flooding is just one of those things that happen. I think what BES is going to help. I’ve seen it help already.”

City of Portland Bureau of Environmental Services engineer Dave Whitaker answers questions posed by Lents neighbor Ed Fitzgerald about the East Lents Floodplain Restoration Project.

Thinks City takes it seriously
Lents neighbor Ed Fitzgerald says that, although he lives in the flood-prone area between SE 106th and 108th Avenues, south of SE Foster Road, “In the ’96 flood, we had a couple of inches of water in our house. We were indirectly affected by our last high-water episode. My house was okay, but I couldn’t get out for 12 to 15 hours, because Foster Road was flooded.”

Regarding the proposed solution, Fitzgerald comments, “I think they’re taking the flooding seriously. I’m not sure what the solution is, but they are looking at the problem. I’m interested in what they’re proposing, because their Brookside Project doesn’t seem designed to handle rain runoff like it is supposed to do.”

Expresses cost concerns
Wes Wolfe, a board member for the neighborhood association, says he’s just speaking for himself, and says, “I’m here because I’m real curious about the different proposed plans for this project. I don’t know what could go wrong with it; I think it may do the job. And it looks like they’ve learned from their other projects; I can see they’re getting better and better.”

A concern for one unidentified resident, who lives near SE 108th Avenue and Foster Road, is the cost. “It is expensive. It looks like there is a lot of overhead that is not construction costs.”

Shares her misgivings
Joyce Beedle, a long time Lents neighbor who lives within the floodplain area, says she thinks the finished project will be great.

But, “I have a couple misgivings. One is that I would like there to be more than 30 days for us to look at the plan and think about it, and come up with suggestions. It’s taken BES years to come this far, and 30 days seems a short response time.”

Another trepidation Beedle expresses is past communication problems with the BES. “We do have some history. Sometimes, we’ve had rapid response to our concerns; other times, things been pretty dismal. So my trepidation is, which way will this project go? We’ve talked about how desperately we want the BES to be responsible, accountable contractors.”

Nevertheless, adds Beedle, she’s hopeful: “Actually, really hopeful. We have really good communication going now. I’m looking forward to how cool it could make the neighborhood.”

“Can the City make water run uphill? Asks neighbor Chuck Glasco.

Questions water running uphill
“I know the City of Portland can do some wonderful things,” muses neighbor Chuck Glasco, “but I don’t think they can make water run uphill. It looks like the southern area of the project will turn into a pond, instead of emptying out where it ties into Johnson Creek.”

Glasco points out that the surface elevation at SE Foster Road is considerably higher than at the southern point of the proposed creek extension. “It looks like the elevation rise could be to 3 feet.”

We wanted to find the answer to Glasco’s interesting question, because we checked the topographical maps and what he said was true. But time ran out to learn the answer; the Lents Neighborhood Association’s meeting was starting in the same space.

Later, Scott Clement, BES Supervising Engineer went over the proposal with us and provided the answer.

“No, we can’t make water flow uphill,” comments Clement. “The general fall of the land in that area is, north to south, high to low. But the level of the creek doesn’t follow that topography. In this case, the fall of the creek is from east to west. Indeed, the water will be flowing downhill.”

BES to review citizen input
“We’ll take input from this meeting, and from the review of the pre-design reports, and consider that, in finishing the final design,” Johnson informs. “From there, we’ll hire a design firm that will go with a critique of the process and come up with a ‘30% design’. Then we’ll go back to the community and share the design of them. We’ll also think about construction impacts, and how we mitigate for those with the neighbors.”

Their web site isn’t up yet, Johnson says, but encourages people to call her at (503) 823-6199, or e-mail her at Marie.Johnson@bes.ci.portland.or.us, for more information.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News Service

TV star Shannon Quimby’s project to recycle an old home into a brand-new one even includes the landscaping. See what she’s doing with trees that are in the way of the new construction …

Shannon Quimby, the “Q-Renew” star from the HGTV network, stands by a camellia tree’s root ball before it is moved 22 feet northward. She says moving it fits with her “reuse everything” philosophy – and saves money as well.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Shannon Quimby, the “Q-Renew” gal seen on the Home & Garden TV Network is sticking with her publicized mission to reuse everything while rebuilding of her home at 2022 SE Rex Street in the Westmorland Neighborhood.

She calls it the “REX (Reuse Everything eXperiment) Project”.

“I said I was saving and reusing everything,” Quimby tells us, “and I am including the six mature camellias.”

With the help of a half-dozen workers – and a gigantic crane – she’s transplanting the trees, on site in different locations.

Trees aloft! A giant crane easily lifts the trees to be replanted in another part of the yard.

Massive move saves money
“Isn’t this costing you a fortune?” we ask.

Quimby replies, “Actually it’s saving me money.  If I had to replace all of these trees, doing landscaping, and if I had purchased these trees, it would cost over $25,000.  To dig the trees, ball the roots, and move them is going to cost about $10,000. So I’m way ahead of the game. And, these camellias have been here for years and years.  So not only am I saving money, I’m saving part of the neighborhood.”

City arborists told Quimby that the holly tree on the property was on their nuisance list and she could chop it down. “We did. But, now we’re milling it into an interior exposed column in the new family room and dining room area.”

You can follow her adventure – recycling an entire house and yard, board by board – at her web site: www.ShannonQuimby.com.

It takes one huge crane to lift trees weighing thousands of pounds – but that expense is only half the price of buying replacement trees, Quimby says.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News Service

It didn’t swallow it up, but this sinkhole gave the crew a scare, as their truck started sliding down into the pavement. See exclusive photos here …

While the truck wasn’t buried, the crews had to scramble out, for fear it might disappear into a sinkhole. PWB photo

Story and some photos by David F. Ashton
The combination of cold weather, and old water main pipes, has caused water line ruptures across the city.

The event on January 30 gave Portland Water Bureau (PWB) workers a real scare, when they pulled up to see why water was gushing up from the pavement on SE 32nd Avenue, a block south of SE Powell Boulevard.

“As a crewmember backed his vehicle up to begin repair work,” says PWB spokesperson Jennie Day, “the ground caved in, taking the driver’s side of the vehicle with it.”

The driver emerged, unscathed, Day reports. “The vehicle, however, was not so lucky. It took two different tow trucks nearly two hours to pull it out of the sinkhole.”

Although it was damaged from the sinkhole episode, PWB workers kept the truck on-scene after it was pulled out of the street. “It’s got everything we need in it, and we had to get to work,” a crewmember explained.

Crew leaders believe that the integrity of the pavement was compromised when dirt under the street surface was washed away by gushing water from the break of an 8-inch water main. The crew had no way of knowing that the ground beneath the surface had given away.

Another “day at the office” for a Portland Water Bureau crew, as they repair not one, but two breaks in the water main. Yup, that’s the rescued truck in the background!

Residents on SE 32nd between Powell and Francis were without water service while crews repaired the line. Service was restored at 5 pm that afternoon, Day confirms.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News Service

State Senators Rod Monroe, Brad Avakian and Portland City Commissioner Randy Leonard hosted the event – see what we learned when we stopped by …

State Senator Rod Monroe explains the intricacies of funding state highway improvement – such as outer SE Powell Boulevard.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Billed as a “Livable Communities Town Hall”, co-hosted State Senator Brad Avakian and Portland City Commissioner Randy Leonard, the event was scheduled to touch on issues ranging from land use to water resources, and renewable issues to public safety and emergency response.

Senator Brad Avakian had little to say – but surprise guest State Senator Rod Monroe wasn’t shy about speaking up, at the January 15 meeting held at the David Douglas High School library.

Randy Leonard spoke enthusiastically about the promise of bio-fuels, and how this new industry would help the state economically while reducing auto pollution.

Rod Monroe talked about the “Special Emergency Session” to be held by the Oregon legislature in February, calling it “an experiment” in annual sessions – currently prohibited by law in the Oregon State Constitution.

Many of the people present talked about their own personal concerns – the environment, low spending on education, and the upcoming elections. We were surprised to see a contingent supporting national candidate Lyndon LaRoushe espousing his fiscal policies. And, much of the conversation revolved around national issues, like the debt, spending, and foreign investment.

At times, the Town Hall sounded more like a political rally, as the trio blasted the Republican Party on the Oregon Kicker law, among other topics. Many of the state’s ills were blamed on Republican politicians.

Powell Boulevard concerns
A neighbor from the Centennial Neighborhood asked why SE Powell Boulevard, from I-205 east to Gresham, was still a two-lane road without sidewalks.

Senator Monroe took the question, and said he’d work with the City of Portland, until he was reminded that Powell Boulevard is a State highway.

“The problem is funding,” Monroe then explained. “There are a certain amount of federal dollars coming in; those dollars are minimal. The truth of the matter is, the amount of taxes and fees that are paid on each auto in the states of Washington or California. And our gasoline tax has not gone up for many years.”

Monroe went on, saying that Washington State has doubled the amount of money it collects – per cars driven, not population – than has Oregon, in the past few years. “You’ll notice a lot of work has been done in the state of Washington, but not in Oregon. We’re looking for ways to get projects going. They’re right at the top of my list. I’ve lived here all of my life and yes, [SE Powell Boulevard] is an absolute bottleneck.”

Portland City Commissioner Randy Leonard spoke enthusiastically about alternative fuels, and gaining greater financial support for outer East Portland schools. Senator Brad Avakian, a panelist, mostly listened.

Sees support for schools
Because we could attend only a portion of the session, we later asked Commissioner Leonard what he felt were the main issues that came up.

“What I took away from the meeting the other night,” Leonard replied,  “was the overwhelming public support of the work Commissioner Sten and I are partnering on, to come up with the money to build David Douglas a new grade school using downtown urban renewal dollars.

“Both Senators Monroe and Avakian said they would support legislation in Salem next month to clear the way for us to give the David Douglas District the money needed for the school.”

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News Service

Sho Dozono drew on his East Portland heritage as he kicked off his bid to be Portland’s next mayor. Learn why this businessman says he’s the man for the job …

At Woodstock Wine & Deli, Sho Dozono poses for a photo with fellow members of the Cleveland High School Class of ’63.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
It had been looking as if Portland City Commissioner Sam Adams’ bid for Mayor might not be seriously challenged. But on January 12, that scenario changed, as hundreds of supporters flocked to greet businessman Sho Dozono – at Woodstock Wine & Deli.

Although not a tall man, Sho Dozono was easy to spot, as he energetically worked the room like a man on a mission. He was wearing his white Cleveland High School letter sweater – and was constantly in motion, greeting one person, hugging another, and shaking the hand of yet another supporter.

Dozono dialogs
When we asked the vivacious candidate why he chose Woodstock to kick off his campaign, Dozono replied, “I went to Cleveland High School – I’m the class of 1963. I went to Buckman Elementary and Hosford Middle Schools; I am an Eastside product. I’m very proud of my roots here.

Newly-minted Portland mayoral candidate Sho Dozono stops to talk with supporters Margy Christy and Peter Hamilton.

“It feels good to have so many friends, not only from this neighborhood but from throughout the city of Portland and suburbs, here to support my campaign. They want me to be successful; they’re gathering signatures so I’ll ultimately be elected Mayor of Portland on May 20th of this year.”

A ‘public funding’ candidate
The signatures to which Dozono was referring are those needed, along with a $5 donation, to allow the candidate to quality for public funding for his campaign.

“We need to gather 1,500 signatures and donations before January 31 to qualify,” said his daughter, Stephanie Dozono. “Before today is over, we may be half way toward reaching our goal.” The day following this reception, Dozono’s campaign manager told us they had, indeed gathered 750 signatures within just the first week of the campaign.

Sees hunger for change
“I think there is a hunger for change in Portland City Hall,” Dozono went on. “The City can use a breath of fresh air and new leadership – not from an insider. The work that career politicians and insiders do, many who have worked there for years, is very important, but sometimes a fresh perspective is important too.”

Dozono moves briskly around the room, shaking hands and thanking supporters.

Dozono said he’s been a businessman for 30 years. “At the same time, I’ve not been a bystander. I’ve been engaged in civic involvement. I’ve worked for six Mayors and five Governors – without any break. They’ve asked me to lead commissions, or chair committees.”

His civic involvement, Dozono said, has given him an opportunity to show how his leadership does get things done. “When I am elected Mayor, I intend to bring that collaborative spirit, especially between government and the private sector, into City Hall.”

Ready to make a statement for TV? You bet! Dozono seems to enjoy the early stages of his run for the mayor’s seat.

For more information, see his web site at www.shoformayor.com.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News Service

See how the latest medical technology gives expectant mothers (and family members) more than a sneak-peak at their soon-to-arrive new stars …

Jessica Fantroy shares with us her first experience of seeing her newest baby girl – weeks before she’s to be born. Rebecca Cunningham is operating the Phillips 4-D Ultrasound, as Chief Sonographer Tina Fery looks on.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Medical ultrasound imaging has been around for years. But, the blurry, grainy image – useful to medical experts – usually just looks like a blob on the screen of an electronic device.

But this week, thanks to Adventist Medical Center, we were invited to preview the miracle of life as East County resident, Jessica Fantroy, got her first glimpse of the live-action image of her third child, a soon-to-be born baby girl.

“This is my first time doing this,” Fantroy said as she saw a realistic, three-dimensional image of her unborn baby.  “I always wanted to see what the baby looks like when it’s still inside me. It’s so clear. This is really nice.”

As sonographer Rebecca Cunningham moved the probe around the expecting mom’s tummy, we saw different views of the unborn infant as it stretched, curled up, and at one point, seemed to smile – long before its early April birth date. “This gives us a three-dimensional image,” commented Cunningham; “the ‘fourth dimension’ is motion over time.”

Vast improvement in imaging
“When I first started doing ultrasounds ten years ago,” added the ultrasound technician, “the two- dimensional images were really poor. This new technology is simply amazing. You can look at an organ – or in this case, Jessica’s baby – from many different perspectives.”

Cunningham pointed at the large, high-resolution color screen. “You can clearly see the umbilical cord going across the baby’s face.”

“Look, she’s sucking on the cord!” Fantroy exclaimed.

Unborn movie star
Cunningham pressed a button, and the machine – a Phillips IU-22 4-D Ultrasound – took digital photos and movie clips which can even be burned to a CD for the patient to take home and share.

“Grandma is waiting at home,” Fantroy told us. “She can’t wait to see these pictures. It’ll be fun to show everybody.”

With a stretch and a yawn, Baby Fantroy stars in her first movie.

Pictures promote bonding
We asked the clinic’s Chief Sonographer, Tina Fery, about the medical applications for this new technology.

“Moms always could feel the baby moving all the time,” Fery replied. “This now gives dads, and the family’s children, the opportunity see the baby as clearly as if they were looking at it in a bassinette. They’re able to connect, and bond, with the baby on a whole different level.”

Fantroy agreed, “Oh yeah. I can so clearly see my move. I can feel her move, and it’s really fun and interesting to see here in me.”

A medical benefit, Fery pointed out, is that practitioners can now clearly see the orientation of the baby. If it’s a problem pregnancy, they can better view abnormalities that will need medical attention when the baby is born.

Technologists say new moms love the new 4-D ultrasound technology.

A medical procedure
Although ultrasound imaging is not an invasive process, it is still a medical procedure, Ferys pointed out. “In our case, when a physician orders an ultrasound imaging session, the patient gets the benefit of this new technology. It doesn’t cost any more than we used to charge for a 2-D ultrasound.”

Currently, both Adventist Medical Center and Gresham Imaging Center are offering “4D ultrasound imaging”.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News Service