So, exactly what activities drew 250 neighbors to
this late-summer event? Take a look …
Event Coordinator Delores Wood lines up the parade at the Powellhurst/Gilbert Neighborhood Fair at Raymond Park.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Visiting neighborhood-sponsored activities is one of our summertime joys – and the Powellhurst/Gilbert Neighborhood Fair on August 16 was no exception.
More than a dozen organizations – ranging from Leach Botanical Gardens, to the Midway Business Association, to city and county agencies – provided information and goodies in tents set up in Raymond Park – on SE 118th Avenue, between SE Holgate Boulevard and SE Harold Street.
Lots of children’s activities kept the young ones occupied during the event.
Bill Dayton, owner of Pizza Baron and president of the area’s business association, brought pizza to the event for everyone to enjoy.
Entertaining and informing neighbors
“It’s important to hold events like this,” said organizer Delores Wood, “to provide some entertainment for people in our neighborhood. But another important reason for holding this fair is to be able to tell about the changes that are going on in our area.”
Wood said that, in exchange for putting residents’ names in a raffle, the Powellhurst/Gilbert Neighborhood Association was able to build their mailing list to help keep residents informed about meetings and neighborhood news.
“There’s so much change here,” Wood added. “It’s good to be informed about the new businesses moving in, street improvements, crosswalks, sidewalks, and other issues.”
More than a dozen booths provided information about businesses, community services and non-profit organizations to folks – in this, the largest of all outer East Portland neighborhoods.
Let the parade begin! The procession marched all around the perimeter of Raymond Park.
“It’s always fun to celebrate, no matter what the cause,” added Wood. Over the course of the day, even in the hot sultry weather, the event attracted some 250 neighbors.
This band – and their crew – provided great music throughout the afternoon at the Powellhurst/Gilbert Neighborhood Fair.
© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
While officials say they’re making plans and creating programs to curb the new explosion of street prostitution, many neighbors say they’re “fed up” with having their local streets turned into brothels. See what’s up …
If it weren’t for “johns” – like this alleged street sex customer being taken in by a custody team during a summertime mission – prostitutes and their pimps wouldn’t be so brazenly strolling along 82nd Avenue of Roses offering their services.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
When Portland Police Bureau Assistant Chief Lynnae Berg spoke to East Portland Concerned Citizens – a meeting on which we reported a couple of weeks ago – she was asked about how the bureau was dealing with street level prostitution, now that Prostitution-free Zones have been discontinued.
Her response: “…The zones are no longer in place; this is a fact of life. We’re working on other strategies to deal with prostitution. Until we have an effective strategy in place, we are working ‘precinct-level missions’ to reduce it.” She noted that it isn’t possible to continuously run anti-prostitution missions, because they are highly labor-intensive. “Hopefully, we will have more effective strategies in place in a couple of months.”
Judging by the collective groan heard throughout the room, her answer didn’t sit well with the attendees.
Officers on an anti-prostitution mission arrest another suspect for peddling sexual favors on SE 82nd Avenue.
Intensive missions in August produce results
Responding to the concerns of neighbors and businesspeople along 82nd Avenue of Roses, officers from SE and East Precinct have been running anti-prostitution missions throughout the month of August.
According to Police Bureau spokesman Sgt. Brian Schmautz, officers conducted a total of six “missions” – targeted law-enforcement operations – to reduce the highly-visible, blatant street-sex trade on 82nd.
Four of the missions, Schmautz reported, were set up to allow prostitutes to proposition undercover police officers. Two additional missions put undercover female officers on the street, to see if customers (“johns”) would attempt to pick them up and propose sex for money.
“During the month, 64 individuals were arrested for prostitution-related crimes,” reported Schmautz.
Group prepares Town Hall Summit on September 15
One group, calling itself “Take Back 82nd Avenue”, says they’re organizing a Town Hall Summit on September 15 from 6:00 to 8:30 pm at Vestal Elementary School, 161 NE 82nd Avenue (just south of E. Burnside).
“We’re holding this forum to develop a community-based and proactive solution session that empowers everyone with knowledge on how to deal with this issue at a house, street, business, and neighborhood level,” noted the group’s spokesperson, Dawn Rasmussen. “Additionally, we want to emphasize a humane approach to the women involved [in prostitution], as many [of them] are victims.”
They invited an impressive lineup of panelists – hopefully, she said, many of the city leaders will be on hand for the event. The auditorium at the school seats 400; the group is hoping that most of them will be filled with concerned neighbors.
Montavilla neighbors take action
Last Saturday, we met with a leader from a group calling itself “Montavilla in Action” (CLICK HERE to see their blog).
We learned these neighbors also feel they must take action because “82nd Avenue of Roses has turned into ‘Portland’s Red Light District’; the activity spills into all of the surrounding neighborhoods, especially our schools and parks.”
This group is obtaining signatures on a petition asking members of the Portland City Council to reinstate the Prostitution-Free Zone.
And, yet another group — from the Montavilla Neighborhood Association — is also holding a meeting they call “The Summit for Montavilla Neighborhood” on October 7 at Portland Community College Southeast Center at S.E. Division and 82nd. We’ll give you more details as they become available.
Starting in September, one police car will be dedicated, full time, to combating street sex in outer East Portland.
Police cruiser to target street-level prostitution
“The Police Bureau is currently dedicating one car to prostitution enforcement for a full ten-hour shift each day,” Sgt. Schmautz said on August 28. “The hours and location of patrol will shift, as individuals involved in prostitution activity change their behavior to avoid enforcement.”
We’ve asked to be allowed once again to ride along and report on this latest mission. We’ll let you know what we learn.
© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
You might be surprised to learn the identity of the classically-trained concert pianist who led this “Music in the Park” series …
Warming up before his performance, classical pianist (and local realtor) Fred Sanchez said he hoped to escape the Gateway Keystone Kops paddy wagon by giving a virtuoso performance during the Ventura Park Music in the Park program. And he did!
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Although outer East Portland has numerous City parks – many of them large enough to accommodate thousands of people – the Portland Parks & Recreation (PP&R) “Music in the Parks” concerts haven’t made it east of 92nd Avenue – until now.
Under stormy-looking clouds and with the threat of rain, the first Gateway-area “Music in the Park” program began on Thursday, August 21, at Ventura Park, on SE Stark Street.
But, it didn’t rain – in fact, the sun came out! Slowly, an audience of nearly 200 gathered, seated on lawn chairs and blankets, to enjoy top-quality entertainment for the first time in their park.
Chief Kop Kevin Minkoff warmed up the audience at the first-ever Ventura Park concert series.
Before the show, we spoke with one of the musicians, and also one of the organizers of the event, ever-faithful Gateway booster Fred Sanchez.
“Culture is very important to help the community grow,” remarked Sanchez, as he warmed up on the grand piano atop a covered stage. “Any time we can produce a program of good music, and provide a venue for people to gather and enjoy themselves, it helps our community come together. These are the kind of events that help a neighborhood’s character grow.”
Sanchez added that cooperation between the Hazelwood Neighborhood Association and the Gateway Area of Business Association (GABA) made the concert series possible.
“Fast Fingered Fred” Sanchez plays the classics with finesse.
Sanchez plays his way out of ‘jail’
It wouldn’t be a GABA-sponsored event without the wacky antics of their pep squad, known – since 1951 – as the Gateway Keystone Kops.
To get the series going, the commissioner of the Kops, GABA board member Kevin Minkoff CPA, introduced the program to the audience and recounted the organization’s illustrious history and mission.
The Keystone Kops then brought to the stage “Fast Fingered Fred”. To earn his freedom, the audience was told, Fred Sanchez was tasked to play the piano. Sanchez proved to be more than up to the job, as he played selections from Mozart, Chopin, and other legendary classical composers.
After Sanchez “earned his release”, Minkoff told how Sanchez studied with great piano teachers, including José and Amparo Iturbi. “Sanchez found that piano recitals, competitions, and traveling didn’t leave him much time to spend for his family and for volunteer work in our community,” Minkoff explained. “So, in 1979, he formed Realty Brokers; six of his sons now work with him in this business.”
Between numbers, the Keystone Kops “passed the hat” to raise money to support the new concert series.
Sharing the stage with Sanchez was the Gordon Neal Herman Trio, with their namesake on piano, Rick Maier on drums, and Jerrold Fentress on bass. They played original and standard light, traditional, and modern jazz tunes; the audience showed appreciation with applause.
Between the acts, the Keystone Kops passed their hats, literally, through the audience, accepting donations to help support the concert series.
The following week, this two-part concert series featured a Cuban dance party with the music by Melao de Cana.
As the sun comes out, Martin Wyatt decides he needs to make some cool-looking sun glasses, with the help of his dad, Andy – at the Portland Parks & Recreation activity booth.
The organizers asked that we share their special thanks to the East Portland Neighborhood Organization Small Grants Program. Additional sponsors for the concert series included Classique Floors, Realty Brokers, American Sani-Can, Cooley Partners, Michelle’s Pianos, and Adventist Medical Center.
© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
From the “grudge-match” softball game, to parade and fair, to music in Lents Park – discover what’s been going on – and what’s coming up in the next couple of weeks …
Portland City Commissioner Dan Saltzman, Sr. Vice Commander of VFW Post 1442 Dale Guldenzoph, Event co-organizer Ken Turner, and Lents neighborhood Chair Dewey Akers, are all here enjoying Lents Founder’s Day events.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Why do folks in the Lents Neighborhood celebrate “Founder’s Day” each year in August and September, with a baseball game, parade, festival and musical concerts?
“We’re honoring our founder, Oliver Perry Lent, a stonemason who came to Oregon in the 1850s to farm a 190-acre land claim,” Dewey Akers, the neighborhood’s Chair, explained. “The town was platted in 1892, annexed from Multnomah County, and incorporated into the City of Portland in 1912.”
Locals win Lents vs. City of Portland clash
Against the perennial rivals, the “Portland City Stickers”, it was Ken Turner, President of the 82nd Avenue of Roses Business Association, on the mound who pitched a winning game for the “Lents Rebels”.
For many years, Lents townspeople have been taking on the downtown bigwigs; but this contentious situation isn’t a lawsuit – it’s a softball game, at the Lents Little League field, which kicks off the annual Founder’s Day celebration.
“This ballgame came out of the Lents Urban Renewal process,” related the chief instigator, Ken Turner – longtime Lents booster, and President of the 82nd Avenue of Roses Business Association. “At times, the relationship between the city personnel and the community here were strained, because we were at odds regarding various topics. But the ballgame has turned out to be a great, really enjoyable tradition in Lents.”
The 98° temperature didn’t stop the game on Saturday, August 16.
The Lents Rebels came out of the annual softball game with bragging rights for this year.
Although the Portland City Stickers played valiantly, they succumbed to the mighty Lents Rebels.
In fact, instead of playing the usual seven innings, the game went nine innings, as the “Lents Rebels” took advantage of the “Portland City Stickers”, scoring 18 to 3.
All agreed that officially-sanctioned umpire, Mike Delman (candidate for Multnomah County Commissioner), called the game fairly.
Lents Founder’s Day Parade and Celebration
With Portland Police Bureau East Precinct Commander Michael Crebs driving the lead car, the Lents Founder’s Day Parade begins.
Portland City Commissioner, and Mayor-elect, Sam Adams, once again walks the Lents community parade, greeting citizens along the way.
At left, the organizer of the event, Judy Welch, rode in the parade; at right, Mike Delman, candidate for Multnomah County Commissioner, greeted folks along the parade route.
Celebration features food, fun and music
The following day, August 17, the Lents Founder’s Day Celebration continued, with a parade around Lents Park, followed by a community fair and concert.
At the conclusion of the parade, and throughout the afternoon, townsfolk quaffed some 60 gallons of ice-cold lemonade, provided by Lansing Linoleum; dined on 1,000 steaming hot dogs, courtesy of the New Copper Penny Restaurant; and refreshed themselves with slices of watermelon, served by Lents Lutheran Community Church members.
Carrie Wright and Mark Urell, are icing down some of their famous Lents Lansing Linoleum Lemonade (say that fast three times!). They’ve been providing the refreshing liquid for neighbors every year since the first Founder’s Day many years ago.
Serving the hot dogs (with all the fixings) and soda pop, supplied by the New Copper Penny restaurant, are Judy Houghton and John Welch.
Joe Ferguson and Irving Gomez, from the Lents Lutheran Community Church, cut up fresh watermelon for visitors.
Thirty community organizations, civic clubs, and commercial sponsors gave neighbors a variety of information about available services and offerings. Giving kids and adults a “hands on” experience of life in Lents 100 years ago, a large historical exhibit called “Pioneer Living” offered activities ranging from gold-panning to bread-making.
Portland Parks & Recreation sponsored a “climbing wall” – a big hit with kids of all ages, including Portland Police Bureau East Precinct Commander Michael Crebs. He rang the bell atop the wall – twice – to the delight of the youngsters who cheered him on.
Portland Police Bureau East Precinct Commander Michael Crebs took several turns on the climbing wall. He rang the bell on top, to the delight of the young people below, who were cheering him on.
Just one of the hands-on exhibits at the Pioneer Living “village” was a station where kids could pan for “gold”.
Event organizers recognized
Akers gave special kudos to all of the volunteers who make the event possible – especially past neighborhood Chair Judy Welch, and Ken Turner. Both work year-’round on the celebration.
Akers also pointed out the “facelift” given to the Lents Park Gazebo. “Maxine Miller designed ‘clouds and sun’ motif, Portland YouthBuilders did the cleaning and structural preparation, and Wes Wolf of Wolf Construction was responsible for the installation. A grant from Portland Development Commission helped make it possible.”
Here, gracing the newly-refurbished Lents Park Gazebo stage is the Providence Stage Band, under the baton of Larry Morrell. (Take note of the American Folk Music events set to appear here in September!)
Good music, and more music
As the afternoon wore on, the air was filled with swing-era music provided by the Providence Stage Band. This concert kicked off the Lents Music in the Park Concert series that runs through September – this year, produced in cooperation with the Portland FolkMusic Society.
But the fun isn’t over yet!
Coming up on September 7, at 3:00 p.m., there will be a free concert at the Lents Park Gazebo (SE 92nd Avenue & Holgate Boulevard) illustrating musical Americana, and featuring an all-star lineup, including “River City Folk” radio show host and musician Tom May. Sharing the stage will be Mary Flower, considered one of the finest proponents of acoustic blues in the country; LynnAnn Hyde and Stu Kinzel, “guardians of traditional Acoustic Blues”; and the Ragtime music of Henry and Moggy.
And there’s even more. The series continues on September 14 (same time and location) with a Woody Guthrie Tribute Concert (Guthrie lived in Lents, writing music for the BPA, in 1941) featuring The Wanderers – Murlin Allen, Ken Vigil, Joe Seamons, and Renegade Minstrels.
With the stability provided by increased home ownership in the neighborhood, more businesses moving into the area, and now the possibility of professional minor-league baseball coming to Lents – it looks like neighbors in Lents can now look forward to a bright future as much as they have been looking back on a storied past.
© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
What fun folks had, as this neighborhood business district held a block-long party! Come along, and enjoy it with us …
On many side streets along the Hawthorne District, booths promote civic involvement, and provide merchants the opportunity to sell their wares.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Although it was blazing hot on August 15, lots of folks came out to peruse one of the better-known business districts – SE Hawthorne Boulevard.
“Hawthorne Street Fair is more popular than ever,” commented the Hawthorne Boulevard Business Association’s President, Karin Edwards. “People have wonderful nostalgic feelings about our area.”
Budding artists Andres Sanchez and Jessamyn West-Barker draw on their talents.
Willa Stewart learns how to use Circus Magic Sticks from Circus Cascadia’s Jeff Garritano.
The event is good for both merchants and neighbors, opined Edwards. “It gives people the chance to look at Hawthorne Boulevard with fresh eyes. It generates good feelings that last all year long.”
Edwards said they counted more visitors than last year – even with record heat that day. The event, that included kids’ activities, bands and lots of street sales, ran smoothly she noted.
Stirnkorb of the store 8 Women sets out a colorful display in front of their shop.
Lots and lots of shopping – both in stores and at sidewalk sales – are a big draw for this event.
“We started planning in December and had good crew of seven main volunteers, plus our staff from The Support Group. And, our shopkeepers sponsored and ran exhibits near their stores.”
Lorna Miller entertains with songs and stories as she presents “Little Kids Jamboree”.
We didn’t get her name before she went into the drink – but this intrepid Rivermark Community Credit Union coworker had the coolest duty of the day – taking a dunkin’ for the cause.
Has it been a while since you’ve strolled along SE Hawthorne Boulvard? CLICK HERE and see all they have to offer by visiting their website!
© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
Other merchant associations could take a page from this organization’s book. See why, right here …
Event chair Debbe Hamada (formerly director of East Portland Community Center) at her store, Tilde, says she enjoys creating events that bring the community together.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
When 100 merchants, members of the recently-expanded Sellwood-Westmoreland Business Alliance, agreed to participate in this August 9 event, they hoped it would draw folks to their businesses – and indeed, everyone came out a winner.
“We call it ‘Passport to Sellwood and Westmoreland – Celebrate the Summer,” explained Debbe Hamada, owner of a modern lifestyles accessory store in Sellwood called “Tilde”, and credited as being the prime mover behind the event.
Brent Heeb, proprietor of Stars Antique Mall and Stars & Splendid says the Passport event is perfect for businesses in the neighborhood.
“We want people to come here and have a good time,” Hamada said. “And I think it’s a great thing to do for the neighborhood. While we attract some visitors from around the greater Portland area, we’re primarily providing a fun event so our neighbors can have a great time.”
The idea was, Hamada said, that visitors would pick up a free “Passport” booklet, and take it around to participating merchants, each of whom marked it with a unique stamp. Having their booklet stamped at a minimum of six businesses qualified participants to win prize packages.
At one of the stops on the “Passport to Sellwood and Westmoreland” tour, Staccato Gelato, Annalee Schafranek stamps a passport.
Event expands as business districts unite
“This is the second year for this event in Sellwood,” Hamada said. “Last year, only stores on SE 13th Avenue participated. This year, with our two business districts united, we expanded it from 43 merchants to 108 merchants participating in both Sellwood and Westmoreland.”
Although Hamada is credited with creating and organizing the event, she said others have helped out. “Honestly, Brent Heeb worked equally as hard on this promotion.”
The Stumptown Swing trio enlivens SE 13th Avenue as they entertain in front of Grand Central Baking and Looking Glass Books.
Brings neighborhoods together
We next asked Brent Heeb, the proprietor of “Stars Antique Malls” and “Stars & Splendid” on SE Milwaukie Avenue for 18 years in Westmoreland, why he was enthusiastic about helping Hamada.
“I remember driving down 13th Avenue last year and seeing all the balloons,” Heeb replied. “It looked like there was a fun event happening. When our business districts joined, I met Debbe and learned about their ‘Passport’ event. Working on it has really brought our neighborhood business districts together.”
Folks said they came for miles around to peruse the offerings of merchants in Sellwood and Westmoreland.
In addition to running his shops, Heeb said he’s also a Westmoreland resident. “We have a real neighborhood here. We were ‘green’ and on foot before the concept became fashionable. Anytime we can support and promote our neighborhoods, it benefits everyone.”
Look for another area-wide promotion in Sellwood and Westmoreland in December; for more information check the business district’s web site: CLICK HERE. NOTE: our site was hacked – rest assured, the original link shown was redirected.
© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
SHOCKING BUT TRUE:
Move over meth! Big-time heroin trafficking is now out into the ‘burbs! Get the inside story here …
Folks living around this Montavilla Neighborhood home say they feel unsettled that a house on their street is suspected to be involved with one of the largest heroin distribution operations in East Portland the cops have ever seen.
Story and photo by David F. Ashton
We’ve all heard about the “methamphetamine epidemic” that swept outer East Portland. While the Mexican drug lords are still pumping the drug into our part of town; the dangerous methamphetamine labs are pretty much a thing of the past.
But some neighbors near the 9200 block of SE Market Street say they’re disquieted to learn heroin dealers had a “distribution center” set up on their otherwise quiet residential street, just south of SE Stark Street – mere blocks from area schools.
An observant few were not shocked. “Actually, I wasn’t surprised they were selling drugs there, based on what I’ve seen,” said a neighbor down the street, who begged not to be identified for fear of reprisal.
To get the facts, we talk with Portland Police Bureau Drugs and Vice Division (DVD) Captain Mark Kruger – a former Parkrose resident and long-time officer in East Precinct. He tells us information about the drug operation started coming to light on March 16th, when 28-year-old Kevin Caldwell Stoll died of a drug overdose in Northwest Portland.
“This death led us to begin an investigation; and 49-year-old Richard Williams was subsequently arrested,” Kruger says.
Using evidence obtained during the Williams investigation, officers developed information leading them to believe that Williams was supplied by a drug trafficking organization that was selling more than two pounds of heroin in the Portland Area every month.
With warrants in hand on August 19, DVD and precinct officers swept the SE Market Street house and seized approximately $17,000, two vehicles, and one ounce of heroin. They also executed search warrants on houses in the 1000 SE 114th Avenue in Mill Park and in the 3200 block of SE Palmquist Road in Gresham.
At the Montavilla address, “officers also discovered a room dedicated to the repackaging of heroin into small quantities for redistribution, and thousands of balloons used to distribute heroin,” Kruger adds.
Further, he said that investigators uncovered information that documents the fact that members of the drug operation made or received more than 8,000 calls in the past two months on telephones associated with the investigation.
Investigators arrested (left to right) 19-year-old Martin Camacho-Ramirez, 23-year-old Kevin Omar Castillo-Grajiola, 23-year-old Jose Gilberto Gracian, 21-year-old Casiano Huerte-Diego, and 18-year-old Edgar Zavala-Rodriguez – charging each with Distribution of a Controlled Substance and Conspiracy to Commit Distribution of a Controlled Substance.
Heroin moves east
“Heroin has been a problem on Oregon for many years – it is on a par with methamphetamine,” Kruger tells us. “Heroin has been more associated with the downtown Portland scene. Now it’s moving around a lot more. The group [broken up in outer East Portland] was working almost exclusively on the East side.”
While this bust has “put a significant dent” in heroin distribution, Kruger adds, they’re still on the lookout for other drug dealers looking to supply heroin to users.
This investigation is ongoing.
© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
North, south, east and west – we traveled to all of the National Night Out gatherings throughout outer East Portland. Here’s your chance to “ride shotgun” on our annual odyssey …
Carol Krikava, Parkrose Neighborhood Association’s Secretary, and Marcy Emerson-Peters (Chair of land use and community development) help out at the National Night Out information center at the Parkrose Festival and Cruise-in on August 2.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton (except as noted)
More than many other cities around the country, Portland – and especially outer East Portland neighborhoods – participates with gusto in the National Night Out Against Crime.
The purpose of these gatherings is to heighten crime and drug prevention awareness, and to generate support for – and participation in – local anti-crime programs.
Speaking about the event, Crime Prevention Specialist Rosanne Lee, who works with the East Portland Neighborhood Organization, commented at one of the gatherings, “They strengthen neighborhood spirit and police-community partnerships. But more than that, they send a message to criminals, letting them know that neighborhoods are organized and fighting back against crime.”
Not all events were on the “officially designated” dates – National Night Out activities took place all during the first week of August.
Where was the grandest event of all this year? Check out Argay Neighborhood Association’s party!
Saturday, August 2
Oregon Baptist Retirement Home
During the day, folks came by and enjoyed a BBQ luncheon, live Dixieland and Oldies music, participated in a silent auction, and walked among classic cars on the grounds in the 1800 block of NE 108th Avenue.
“We’ve got kids’ activities, police and fire bureau exhibits. and are having lots of run,” said organizer Lou Fontana. Proceeds from their event benefited Snow Cap Community Charities.
Parkrose Neighborhood Association
As part of the 2008 Parkrose Festival and Cruise-in, volunteers of this association talked with many of the thousands of attendees.
“We’re here to get the word out about how our association is actively helping neighbors,” said Marcy Emerson-Peters, past association Chair.
Tuesday, August 5
Gateway Apartments in Hazelwood
In Gateway, Robert Minden and James Oliver grill hot dogs for folks who live in their apartment complex.
For the first time this year, the Gateway Apartments, located in the Hazelwood Neighborhood, held a National Night Out event.
Gateway area neighbor Andrea Long presents some homemade baked goods to Portland Fire & Rescue crew members from Station 30, who were visiting their event.
“Because we have so many families living here, we decided to be part of this,” said coordinator Sandi Lattin. “We’re cooking up hot dogs and we’ve had all kinds of good picnic foods all afternoon – and also for folks who are just getting home from work. It’s been great; the police department has come by, and firefighters from Station 30 also came to visit.”
Wilkes/Russell Neighborhoods
Kerry Brown shows off one of the several cakes decorated for the Wilkes/Russell event.
Our next stop was up in the northeast corner of outer East Portland. Everyone, including your reporter, missed seeing Ross Monn, former Chair of Wilkes, because of his recent move to Spokane.
Bonny McKnight and Alice Blatt sign in guests at Wilkes/Russell National Night out.
Ice Cream scooper Steven Johnson keeps busy.
But, Kerry Brown and her band of volunteers came together to produce an Ice Cream & Cake Social. Their event included entertainment, gifts and games for their 200+ attendees.
Glenfair Neighborhood Association
Helen Beehler, Donna-Lynn Kublick and Betty Twiss serve pizza for their guests at Glenfair Park.
Again this year, neighbors hosted a pizza dinner in Glenfair Park. About 100 folks came by to mingle and enjoy their hospitality.
Portland Police Bureau East Precinct Cadet Joseph Huff gives out “Honorary Cop Badge” stickers at the Glenfair event.
A “makeover” – done by a clown? “Pockets the Clown” (a.k.a. Patricia Bunnell) performs a makeup consultation for Genfair guest Rachelle Grant.
“We’re having a great time, out meeting our neighbors, and letting them know more about our neighborhood association,” said Donna-Lynn Kublick, Chair of the neighborhood association.
Woodland Park
Laura and Glen Heiner – and family – cook up a feast for their National Night Out luau in Woodland Park.
This event moved out of the Heiner family’s driveway – and took over a whole street in the Woodland Park Neighborhood.
Portland Police Bureau East Precinct Officer John Billard shows kids around his police car.
“We decided to have a luau this year,” said organizer Laura Heiner. “For us, the very best part of National Night Out is getting to know all of our neighbors. I have four kids, and I want to know who my neighbors are.”
Centennial Community Association
Centennial Community Association’s Patty Hicks and Tom Lewis get prize tickets ready for a give away.
More than 120 neighbors showed up at Parklane Park for a potluck dinner, prizes, and information during Centennial Community Association’s event.
Neighbors look at plans Portland Parks & Recreation is considering for further developing Parklane Park.
There were games for kids, face painting, and other activities. Many of the adults enjoyed talking with one another. But a real draw was a chance to see the comprehensive plans set out by the Parks Bureau for developing Parklane Park.
Glenfair’s Lifehouse Baptist Church
“The Haphazards” perform their positive brand of praise music at this community event.
“We’re part of the community,” said Pastor Dan Brown, “so we are participating in this community event.”
PPB Cadets Megan Anderson and Rae McKay help spread the word about community policing – while they enjoy freshly-made Strawberry Shortcake.
Plenty of kids’ games kept the young ones occupied and happily winning prizes, and adult volunteers grilled up hot dogs and other treats.
Argay Neighborhood Association
Portland Mayor Tom Potter is welcomed to the National Night Out event in Argay Park by association Chair Valerie Curry.
Our next stop was in the Argay Neighborhood. Their National Night Out event was already in full swing – and the “KoolTones”, in their sixth consecutive year entertaining there, was playing great classic rock and roll music for the appreciative crowd.
“Thanks to our 61 volunteers, we had a great event,” said Argay Neighborhood’s Chair, Valerie Curry. “We estimate about 500 people came out; Burgerville cooked 485 classic cheeseburgers at the event.”
Bringing the burgers is Rodica Pirv with Heavenly Cafe — and the association’s Transportation Committee Chair – one of more than sixty volunteers helping out at the event.
One of the guests, Portland Mayor Tom Potter, arrived while we were visiting. Potter told attendees, “I’ve been visiting NNO events, and this is the coolest place I’ve been all day. Congratulations on a great National Night Out. Remember to connect up with your neighbors. By working together you can help to keep your neighborhood safe.”
Miguel Ruiz gets a tour of Portland Fire &Rescue Truck 2 from Firefighter Matt Fullerton.
Curry told us an event of this size is only possible because so many individuals, organizations, and companies donate time and materials.
“Again, Shaver Elementary School Principal Cindy Bartman supervised children’s games with the help of SUN School Coordinator Helen Vank and other teachers and parents. Tina Scarborough and Dana McCray sat in the sun throughout the event selling food tickets,” Curry recounted. She also thanked Parkrose High School, Parkrose Hardware, Kyle Ziegler (CastleGate Realty), Jeff Reese’s Parkrose Chevron, and Target stores.
Mill Park Neighborhood Association
Todd Baker cooks up the food for 70 neighbors in Mill Park for their annual street party.
“I think the heat chased people off today,” commented Mill Park’s event organizer, Todd Baker. “The good thing about our event is that we get to know our neighbors. There are a lot of new neighbors in the area this year.”
Lents Neighborhood Association
At Lents Park, volunteers scoop up ice cream sundaes for visiting neighbors. Photo: Mackendree Thompson ROSE Community Development Corp.
For many years, the Lents Neighborhood Association has held an Ice Cream Sundae Social in Lents Park at their National Night Out event.
Portland Development Commission’s Lents Sr. Project Coordinator John Jansons and Housing Services Coordinator Javier Mena share information about area development.
Near the end of the evening, Karin Hanson, Lents organizer Judy Welch, and Mayor Tom Potter talk about the success of National Night Out programs.
According to organizer Judy Welch, they went through about 13 gallons of ice cream, and 400 Otter Pops, as about 250 people came to their event in Lents Park.
Thursday, August 7
Liesl Vistaunet, public relations and marketing director for Portland Adventist Academy, and Rosanne Lee, ONI Crime Prevention Specialist, greet neighbors at this NNO party.
“We’re having our second annual neighborhood block party, and we’re having lots of fun,” is what Liesl Vistaunet, public relations and marketing director for Portland Adventist Academy told us about their event.
Vistaunet said they were holding a block party to welcome neighbors to their campus. “Some people who have visited say they’ve lived here for 50 years, but never set foot on our campus.”
Mattison Bibb learns how to crawl under smoke to reach safety, with the help of Portland Fire & Rescue Fire Inspector Michael O’Keefe.
Christine Escalante and Katie Palumbo serve up flavored snow cones at the Portland Adventist Academy event.
Another reason for holding the event is that the Portland Adventist Academy is starting a building campaign. “Over the next ten years,” Vistaunet explained, “we’re rebuilding our school, on the same property. We want neighbors to know that we’ll be improving our campus – not putting in low-income housing units, or another strip mall shopping center.”
We’re looking forward to next year …
As the sun slowly sank into the western sky, so ended our National Night Out travels for 2008. Now, check our Community Calendar and make plans to attend your neighborhood’s association meeting next month!
© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
It’s more than a car show; see why this expanded festival had folks coming from all over to enjoy a new community event …
A hundred specialty vehicles – classics, customs, hotrods, and antiques – are on display along NE Sandy Blvd. at the 2008 Parkrose Festival and Cruise-in. We thank PBA board member Terry Brier with Davey Organicare for the “lift”, allowing us to take aerial photos!
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Started years ago by members of the Parkrose Business Association (PBA), led by Gail Bash of Jackpot Corp. – the original Parkrose Cruise-in was a vehicle for the organization to raise money to fund graduating Parkrose High seniors’ scholarships.
Held on the Parkrose High School grounds, in conjunction with the Portland Rose Festival, these early-June events often suffered from Oregon’s changeable late-spring weather.
Welcoming people to the event – from atop a Portland Police Bureau SERT vehicle – is Mrs. Oregon, Taryn Stastny.
Expanded event changes location, date
Determined to breathe new life into this community event, the PBA board members this year decided to move it to the first Saturday in August, change its location to downtown Parkrose along NE Sandy Boulevard, and create a community festival to add to it and to round it out.
On August 2, eastbound NE Sandy Boulevard was shut down, and more than a hundred vehicles registered for the Cruise-in were parked along the street.
The Portland Police Bureau used the occasion to show off their new Parkrose Contact Office at NE 112th Avenue; and they brought in a display of police equipment and vehicles.
The Parkrose Farmer’s Market moved into the Festival, vendors sold food and goods, and the Parkrose Neighborhood Association blended its “National Night Out” program into the festivities as well.
“It was a huge success,” said Bash. “We had a big crowd, and everyone was happy. Everyone involved now is looking forward to next year.”
Marsha Lee of Copy Express, the organization’s treasurer, added, “The event exceeded our expectations; it sets the stage future festivals.”
Event spotted by an airline passenger
One of the most fascinating stories we heard about the event was told to us by an airline passenger, Eve Jacoby.
“We’re going from New York to Seattle today, and have long layover in Portland,” Jacoby related. “As we were landing at [Portland International] Airport, we saw your festival out the window. We asked where in Portland it is; they told us ‘Parkrose’. So, instead of waiting at the terminal, we hired a cab and came to visit your event. It’s wonderful!”
Uniform, badge and all, Portland Police Bureau East Precinct Officer Greg Baldwin gets dunked, to help raise money for Parkrose scholarships.
Civic figures dunked for dollars
In addition to raising funds through the association’s event sponsorships and cruise-in fees, Portland Police Bureau East Precinct Officer Greg Baldwin offered to take a seat on the Parkrose Lions Dunk Tank to raise more money for the PBA’s scholarship fund.
Police Bureau Cadets were standing by to take their own turn in the dunk tank, when the PBA got an unexpected “donation” from Portland City Commissioner Randy Leonard. Leonard stepped up and offered to take a turn sitting on the break-away bench on the tank.
Rex Hollingsworth of Rex Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc – the title sponsor for the festival – steps up and offers, “I’ll donate $100 if I can pitch balls until I dunk you!” Commissioner Leonard agrees; PBA past president Wayne Stoll of Century Associates takes the money, and starts handing Hollingsworth baseballs.
Into the Parkrose Lions Dunk Tank goes Portland City Commissioner Randy Leonard – street clothes and all. “I’m not sure how I’ll explain this to my wife, but it’s for a good cause,” he comments.
Parkrose Festival & Cruise-in Photo Album
Take a look at our photo album below and see how much fun we had at this great community event:
Portland City Commissioners Randy Leonard and Nick Fish visit the event and speak with PBA board member Gordon Boorst of Compaction & Recycling Equipment.
The Allen Family came from Camas, Washington, to enjoy the day. Here, they’re playing on the antique fire truck on display.
Shane Hollingsworth grills up hot dogs and cheeseburgers at the PBA Chuck-wagon – all day long!
Cheryl Doud, who is with Junk Away Hauling, displays a vintage event T-Shirt at the Official PBA Store.
Jan Ekberg helps serve genuine Swedish pancakes cooked up by grillmaster Eric Johansson on behalf of Harmoni Lodge.
Rex Hollingsworth is presented a medallion by Portland Police Bureau East Precinct Commander Michael Crebs to recognize his contributions to the community.
Crebs told Hollingsworth, “This medallion is used to honor officers who do good work, and to honor citizens who have been willing to help their police Bureau. You’ve done an amazing job by helping out with their new contact office in Parkrose. Thank you for helping make your community a better place to live.”
Hollingsworth responded, “Thank you. This just means the world to me.”
Gail Bash starts an old limousine, as the “Blow-Up Contest” gets underway. Participants guess how long a car – drained of oil – will run until it – well – blows up!
It didn’t take long till this old limo’s engine called it quits – among clouds of smoke.
A crowd starts forming near the Awards Stand as cruise-in participants await word of which vehicle was chosen the winner.
For the second year in a row, the “Best of Show” award goes to Richard Speakman for his Chevy Coupe.
Meet the members
To learn more about the Parkrose Business Association, attend their next meeting, September 18 at 11:30 a.m. and enjoy the best business lunch at town at Steamers Restaurant, 8303 NE Sandy Blvd. (east of NE 82nd Ave.); NO reservations required. For more information, check their website at www.parkrosebusiness.org.
© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
Oregon’s Governor didn’t stay long – but find out what he, Sam Adams, and Oregon Senator Rick Metsger had to say …
FuBonn Grocery’s Jenny Liu meets Governor Ted Kulongoski, as does FuBonn Shopping Center’s manager Michael Liu; they’re joined by Portland City Commissioner and Mayor-elect Sam Adams.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Two weeks ago, Governor Ted Kulongoski made a brief stop in outer East Portland to pitch the concept of developing a strategic statewide transportation plan.
The appearance was held on SE 82nd Avenue of Roses, in front of the FuBonn Shopping Center.
The center’s manager, Michael Liu, warmed up the crowd before introducing the Governor, telling how the neighborhood has changed since FuBonn was opened in 2008. “Since our arrival, the avenue has been transformed into the 82nd Avenue of Roses, highlighted every year by a parade for the community. With additional funding and support from the state, the sky is the limit.”
Governor Ted Kulongoski says he’ll work to get state-level funding to help improve 82nd Avenue of Roses, which is actually a state highway.
Kulongoski speaks
Governor Ted Kulongoski complimented the developers of FuBonn, transforming the former PCC campus into a shopping center. He also acknowledged Portland City Commissioner and Mayor-elect Sam Adams.
“My own Department of Transportation is collaborating with the City of Portland to increase safety for all the users along 82nd Avenue of Roses. We’re showcasing how, by working together, we can provide safer streets for our communities across the state.”
Kulongoski said Oregon citizens need a sound and safe transportation infrastructure, regardless of whether one drives, uses public transit, rides a bike, or walks. “We need a safe and sound infrastructure for our economy, so commerce and goods can more effectively and efficiently move from point of distribution to destinations such as this beautiful shopping center.”
Noting that the avenue is a city arterial street as well as a state highway – crossing through many neighborhoods, including the Madison South, Montavilla, Foster Powell, and Lents neighborhoods – Kulongoski said that Portland’s Office of Transportation has made him aware of the high crash areas along 82nd Avenue.
“Now that we’ve identified the need, it’s even more important that we continue to work together to leverage local, state, and federal funds to turn these plans into projects, and expedite improvements along the 82nd Avenue corridor,” Kulongoski concluded.
Mayor-elect and Portland City Commissioner Sam Adams tells why safety improvements are needed to cut down on the number of accidents along 82nd Avenue.
Adams cites crash statistics
Mayor-elect and Portland City Commissioner Sam Adams then stepped up to the podium and thanked the governor for taking note of the need for roadway improvement.
“We’re here to announce the culmination of a new partnership between the Portland Office of Transportation, the Oregon Department of Transportation, neighborhood groups, and the business people who have invested along this corridor,” Adams began.
“In 2007,” he continued, “29 Portlanders were killed on streets and highways, more than were murdered. It’s a gruesome but important comparison. The national safety Council estimates the cost of transportation fatalities and injuries in the City of Portland over the past decade has been $3.9 million, to the economy. In addition, congestion caused by crashes accounts for up to 40% of the congestion.”
Adams added that during the past decade, 1,360 drivers, 40 pedestrians, and 98 bicyclists were injured along 82nd Avenue. “We want to see safety improvements, but we need resources to fulfill the vision. We have cobbled together some money to fulfill that safety improvement plan, but it’s not enough.”
Oregon State Senator Rick Metsger says he hopes the federal government will reauthorize the Federal Transportation Act.
State senator hopes for federal funding
The Chair of Senate Transportation Committee, Rick Metsger, arose to tell the assemblage that he hopes for help from the federal government.
“In the next year, the Congress is going to work on reauthorizing the Federal Transportation Act – generally a six-year authorization. The fact is, over the last number of years, we have failed as a country to invest in the infrastructure of our own country. But now, with the new Congress, and leadership coming right here from our own community, I believe we have an opportunity to look at major reinvestment in our own communities across this country, and that includes the city of Portland, in transportation infrastructure to benefit our citizens.”
Visit pleases local concerned citizens
Ken Turner, President of the 82nd Avenue of Roses Business Association, commented, “This visit highlights the cooperation among governmental agencies, neighborhoods, and business districts.”
Pointing out that 82nd Avenue of Roses is indeed a state highway, Turner said he’s glad that ODOT is taking an active role in making the thoroughfare safer. “This is a case of one positive step leading to another positive step.”
Also present was Portland Police Bureau East Precinct Commander Michael Crebs, who said he saw the Governor’s visit as a positive indication for outer East Portland.
“The Governor is the most powerful man in Oregon,” Crebs said. “By Kulongoski coming here, it brings a lot of energy to the 82nd Avenue safety project. This brings people hope that good things are coming to 82nd Avenue.”
Jenny Liu, manager of the FuBonn Supermarket, afterwards told us that she was pleased that the Governor and Portland’s Mayor-elect came to visit. “It brings a lot of goodwill to our area, and it will help to improve 82nd Avenue of Roses.”
Ted Kulongoski learns from Sam Adams about the improvements that have already been made along 82nd Avenue.
© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
The Division-Clinton Parade and Fair gets better every year.
Take a look at our photo album of this mid-summer event …
Darice Robinson, President of DCBA, Nancy Chapin, festival coordinator; Rin Carroll Jackson, parade coordinator register parade participants.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
SE Division and Clinton Streets took on a carnival atmosphere on July 26 as the neighborhood’s parade and community fair got under way.
“Our parade started and ended with a band,” said Jean Baker, Past President of the area’s business association. “Sandwiched in the middle was a pageant of politicians, those who would be politicians, a church pew rolling westward, the devil on a bicycle blowing bubbles, and neighbors in artistically creative costumes.”
Folks lined SE Division St. to watch the colorful procession.
The big, bold “Get A Life Marching Band” was a hit at this year’s parade.
“Miss Communication” (and festival coordinator) Rin Carroll Jackson skates westward.
From SE 50th Avenue west to the end of the parade at SE 26th Avenue at SE Clinton Street were neighbors who cheered the parade’s participants.
They were treated to music on the move, played by the offshoot of the “One More Time Around Again Band” – namely the “Get A Life Marching Band”. And, the “Last Regiment” syncopated drummers’ lively beat helped move the marching pageant down the street.
Portland City Commissioner and Mayor-elect Sam Adams once again strolls down the street during this annual event.
A Portland Police Bureau Traffic Division officer looks bemused to see a pew from the Richmond Community Church rolling down the street – with parishioners still seated!
A candidate for Portland City Council Position #1 greets folks along the route, and asks for their support.
Mark Strek holds Hannah who, along with Shari Sokel, enjoy the parade.
Street fair follows parade
Along the route, merchants held sidewalk sales, and restaurants sold food and beverages to those watching the parade – and others who came afterward to stroll around the area.
Along SE Division Street, vendors set up to “show and sell” their goods.
Folks from the OHSU team offered $5.00 bike helmets for children and adults. About 100 vendors peddled their wares, and nonprofit groups pitched their programs, under colorful canopies on the closed avenues along SE Division Street after the parade.
Kids’ activities abounded, including bounce rooms, face painting, cookie decorating, and games.
The Clinton Street business district turned into a street fair for the day – and into the evening.
Action moves to SE Clinton Street
Festival producers closed off SE Clinton Street at SE 26th Avenue turning a block into a street party.
Restaurants, lounges and coffee shops did a big business as neighbors enjoyed live music – and each other’s company – well into the evening.
“Safety Jack” chauffeurs Chelsa Cain and Eliza Mohan in his PediCab.
Adults, but mostly kids, danced to the beat of vintage music, played off a DJ’s 8-track tapes – and later, to the music of a live band.
© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
See why hundreds of everyday citizens converged on the police station, on this lovely summer Saturday afternoon …
Portland Police Bureau East Commander Precinct Michael Crebs welcomes citizens to the annual open house.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
One of the favorite summertime events we cover is the East Precinct Open House and Barbeque.
When we arrived at the police station on SE 106th Avenue, we were greeted by Portland Police Bureau East Commander Precinct Michael Crebs.
“Welcome to our open house,” Crebs said with a smile.
Joelle, Naomi, Rebekah and Hannah and Amanda Whitlock try out an ATV at the East Precinct Open House.
Jordyn Wolford tries his hand at the remote-control police robot, while his dad, Clay, looks on. “It’s just like a video game, but real,” Jordyn exclaims.
“We’re inviting people to come check out what were doing here at the Police Bureau. We want people to get to know us, and let us have the chance to get to know them,” Crebs explained.
Oftentimes, the commander noted, the only time citizens interact with police is when they’re stopped for a traffic violation, or have a home visit due to a “difficult situation. But, we like people to meet and talk with us when things are going good, so that we’ve established a relationship before something bad happens. That makes for a lot less tension.”
East Precinct and SERT Officer Larry Wingfield shows some of the tactical equipment he uses, to the East Precinct Involved Citizens chair, Dave Smith.
Checking out the police motorcycle is Emma, Melanie, and Leah Zallee, with Sgt. Erin Smith from the Portland Police Traffic Division.
All bureau departments present
At this, the precinct’s third annual open house, Crebs said all of the bureau’s major departments brought displays, including the Mounted Police, Traffic Division, SERT, Bomb Squad, and Robotics.
“Citizens pay the taxes that fund the police bureau – here, they can come and see how their money is being spent firsthand. We also have our crime prevention specialists here, helping people learn how to reduce crime and the fear of crime in their neighborhoods.”
Renee Fischer-Green holds Kylie as they meet Officer Craig Mack’s trusty mount, Merlin “the magnificent“.
Cadet James Trendell and Cadet Greg Buduy man the grills, as they help feed 500 hungry lunchtime visitors.
Police car trunk supply volunteer (a/k/a “a trunk lady”) Mary Walker pauses for a moment with Portland Police Chief Rosie Sizer, while awaiting lunch.
Bernie Bretz-Erdmann watches, as her grandchild Cole Frascone is fitted with a bike helmet by Officer Kristin Watt.
About 500 people took the precinct up on the offer to meet, and have lunch with, their police; no one was arrested.
© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
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