It’s genuine slice of Americana!
See why this community chooses to hold a parade
on Independence Day – and why …
Dillon “Spiderman” McCarthy is revving up his car, while Princess Kaylien Knecht gets ready to walk, in the City of Maywood Park’s July 4th Parade.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
For the tenth consecutive year, folks in the City of Maywood Park – located just northeast of the intersection of I-205 and I-84 – chose to celebrate Independence Day with a city-wide parade.
As the parade throng was forming, we spoke with the small city’s Mayor, Mark Hardie, who told us, “We enjoy celebrating freedom and the greatness of America here in our community.”
The parade, Hardie said, helps bring the community together. “Our neighborhood and city is all about families, and the parade is a family event. In it you’ll see kids, grandparents, dogs, and a World War II veteran who’s lived here for 55 years. The whole purpose of this is to get together and get to know our neighbors.”
Residents of the City of Maywood Park gather for their traditional annual community photograph, taken by resident and professional photographer Patrick Smith.
And they’re off! Marching to “Stars and Stripes Forever” – played over the PA system of a Multnomah County Sheriff’s patrol car – the celebrants take to the streets. On the right side of the photo, photog Smith is still up on the ladder!
“It looks like we’ll have about 150 folks in the parade today – we’ll probably have more watching from their front yards than we have marching,” Hardie observed.
The entire parade route took the revelers on a 12-block stroll through the wooded streets of their community. The parade ended up where it started, in the northwest corner of the city.
By the time the marching (actually, strolling) group returned, the order of the participants has scrambled – and no one seems to mind. Some participants dropped out along the route; others joined in, and finished the parade.
Byron Perry provides the motive force for the only float in this year’s parade …
… and we see Francesca Perry walking along side as Aidan Perry and Stella the Dog have the seats of honor as the stars-and-stripes decorated float — that their dad, Bryan is powering — cruises down the street.
The city’s Mayor, Mark Hardie, marches in the annual parade.
Says they’ll maintain their independence
After the parade, neighbors gathered at the park along side their main street – and about 250 folks tucked into a hosted barbeque. “It’s a fun, safe-and-sane way of celebrating the holiday,” noted Hardie.
We asked the mayor if there was any talk in Maywood Park City Council meetings about giving up cityhood and joining the City of Portland.
Hardie thought for a moment, smiled, and replied, “Not as long as I’m alive! Part of the independence we’re celebrating today is having our own city here in East Multnomah County. We’re very happy to be our own little city.”
Arnold Mutz, a World War II veteran – and 50-year resident of the City of Maywood Park – rides in the parade in full dress uniform.
In the parade, we are greeted by Jann Churchill and her four-legged friends, Winston and Yolsi.
Bringing up the rear are Portland Fire & Rescue’s Truck 2 and Engine 12.
© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
See why Lents area residents and their friends gathered for dinner at the New Copper Penny for this special event …
Roger Jones and Nancy Chapin are being checked in by Jess Laventall and Dewey Akers as the Annual Lents Summer Concert Series Benefit Dinner gets underway at the New Copper Penny restaurant.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
When we saw folks streaming into the New Copper Penny Pantheon Ballroom on SE 92nd Avenue between SE Foster Road and SE Woodstock Boulevard a couple of weeks ago, we knew it was time, once again, for the annual benefit – confirmed by the greeting we received.
“Welcome to our Lents Summer Concert Series Benefit Dinner,” smiled Dewey Akers, Lents Neighborhood Association Chair.
“This is a fundraiser for our music series,” explained Akers. “It’s going to be fabulous this year – centered both on American folk music and world folk music.”
Judy Welch, former Lents Neighborhood Chair and community supporter, and John Tzantarmas manager of the New Copper Penny, pause for a moment.
Woody Guthrie commemorated
One weekend of the August music series will be devoted to Woody Guthrie. “A lot of people don’t know it, but he was a Lents resident when he wrote for the Bureau of Public Works Administration,” Akers explained. “Two other events will be presenting some tremendous folk artists. What we want to do is create a ‘folk festival’ – a music series in a park venue, unique in Portland.”
This annual benefit dinner is also a fundraiser for upcoming Lents Founders Day events. Additionally, some of the funds will support the neighborhood’s “Movies in the Park”, and support live entertainment at the Lents International Farmers Market.
Karen Young, executive director of Leach Botanical Garden, and Metro Counselor Robert Liberty come to lend their support for this “I Love Lents” community event.
Event strengthens community bonds
The host of the event, John Tzantarmas – who, along with his father, owns the venerated New Copper Penny Restaurant – said he enjoys putting on the event.
“I think it’s great,” Tzantarmas beamed. “Every time we get the neighborhood together, it’s a good thing. Events like this bring neighbors together to talk with one another. Neighbors can talk with business people, and mingle with our community partners as well.”
We asked why business owners host community events like this. Tzantarmas replied, “In our business, we are part of the community; we’ve been here for 35 years and seen it grow and change. We’re in the hospitality business, and we like helping out the community that has supported us for so long.”
Ready to feast on a great three-course dinner, prepared for the benefit by the New Copper Penny Restaurant, is Leslie Hildula and Erika Miller.
Dinner and a show
After being served a three-course dinner, attendees were serenaded by folk musicians, and were awarded raffle prizes provided by local business people.
Metro Counselor Robert Liberty commented at the benefit, “I’m delighted to attend; I haven’t been an event quite like this before. This is a good sign of a healthy community. Having events like this shows real support by and for the community. Plus it’s just fun.”
Look for information regarding the Lents concerts, movies, and Founder’s Day activities in our August, 2008, Community calendar. Or, for more information online, CLICK HERE.
© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
Members of this fifth-grade class wrote it, acted in it – and even took their show downtown. Find out why …
Kevin Muir, the director of the “Hot Dog Musical Theater Company” – and a Lent School fifth grade teacher – welcomes guests to a performance of his class’s play, “EarthAlerth!”.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Fifth-graders aren’t known for having long attention spans. But, Kevin Muir, a Lent School fifth grade teacher, said “pre-production” for the musical play we were about to see began on “the first day of school”.
Muir, himself, is a product of Portland-area education. He graduated from Woodstock Elementary, Meriwether Lewis Middle, and Cleveland High School. “I was a lot of theatrical productions at school.”
Thinking they won a trip to Bermuda, Melani Norell, Betsy Rivera, Miguel Navarro and Alfredo Galindo-Lopez wonder why the resort to which they’ve been invited is just a poorly-painted set. Their host (from Pluto), Alan Morales (far right), tells the students of their impending fate.
Providing ‘meaningful experiences’
Throughout the year, in addition to reading, writing, and arithmetic lessons, the 24 members of his class came up with the storyline, wrote the play and songs, and choreographed the staging, Muir told us.
“The work is extremely meaningful and engaging,” Muir said. “We have five main characters, but also involved are set designers, electricians, custom designers, stage managers, public relations, historians, lighting designers, and the band.”
The best way they can think of to face being conscripted to perform in an off-planet circus is – a song and dance number!
It’s show time … on Pluto!
About the story …
“EARTHALERTH!” is a fanciful story about a handful of Earth kids who are tricked into traveling to the planet Pluto to be Cirque du Pluto Theater Company show named … “EARTHALERTH!”.
On Pluto, kids rehearse their roles in this show that “showcases” all that is wonderful and weird about their home planet, Earth. But, the evil villain, The Bananjelar (he looks remarkably like an adult-human sized banana), attacks the troupe – before leaving to destroy Earth.
Images of Earth are featured in the Cirque du Pluto Theater Company show called “EARTHALERTH!”.
The kids race back to Earth, and in a mighty (funny) battle with The Bananjelar, they save their planet – and learn that Bananjelar is really a misunderstood fruit.
The greater themes of common sense and courage and strength are woven through the play; all these are qualities that Muir said he hopes to instill in his students.
The Earth kids confront The Bananjelar.
Before we saw the show, on May 28, the production company headed downtown to perform their outer-space adventure at the Winningstad Theater. We took in a later presentation at Lent School.
Serving diverse students
After the hour-long energetic and fast-paced show, Muir said he enjoys teaching at Lent School, located in one of the oldest and most diverse neighborhoods in the city.
“I’m determined not to let the children’s demographics inhibit their ability to learn,” stated Muir. “This hands-on model of learning is both engaging and stimulating to students. Too often, education lacks a connection with the community; through this play, my students are able to work with individuals and groups from beyond the school, and then take their product out to the world. To me, that is the essence of a meaningful education.”
What play will be created by his next fifth-grade class?
“We’ll all find out in September,” Muir said. “Check in with us next school year.”
Back on Earth, The Bananjelar chills out, and the kids decide he’s not so bad after all!
© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
Find out why ROSE Community Development is getting ready to pitch a plan to the PDC for developing the Lents Little League baseball field – and what neighbors say they really want built there …
Joseph Readdy, of SERA architects, listens, while ROSE Community Development Corp. executive director Nick Sauvie sets the stage for the workshop at Wattles Boys & Girls Club.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
City officials have talked about the redevelopment of the Lents Neighborhood area for years. Yet, the large parcel of land at the corner of SE 92nd Avenue at SE Harold Street – currently home to the Lents Little League – remains undeveloped.
This Spring, ROSE Community Development Corporation (ROSE) held two workshops regarding the potential development of this property.
Using drawings like these, neighbors shared their ideas regarding how best the Lents Little League field can be developed. The red block is the area to be developed.
Not PDC meetings
First and foremost, stressed ROSE’s executive director Nick Sauvie, when we talked with him at their “Field of Dreams” workshops held at the Wattles Boys & Girls Club, was that:
- The “Field of Dreams” Workshops were not Portland Development Commission (PDC)-sponsored events; and,
- ROSE has not been selected as the development team.
Preparing to present
After the workshops, we asked Sauvie to explain what ROSE was doing, regarding this site.
“The PDC intends to begin a process to select a developer for the site later this year,” Sauvie began. “The first workshop was used to get general input from community members about the site, neighborhood context, and urban design issues. The second workshop took that input and started to incorporate it into design ideas.”
Their organization, Sauvie explained, was created out of the efforts of Southeast Portland people who take the needs and desires for improving the community seriously. “That’s why were went the extra mile and held these workshops early in our process.”
Curt Schultz, principal, SERA architects, leads a group discussion about ideas already gathered regarding the site’s potential development.
New to commercial development
Because ROSE has a solid track record with Lents-area residential development projects, we asked Sauvie if he sees potential challenges.
“One thing that will be new for us,” Sauvie responded, “if we do this project, is that it will have significant commercial component to it. Our mission is building the neighborhood and strengthening its economy. The commercial development is part of the project, and will be our first large venture in economic development.”
Ideas and comments
We asked Sauvie to “boil down” all of the comments and suggestions they heard during the workshops and share ideas he thought were significant. He shared six of them with us.
- There is support for a mixed-use development that will make the Lents Town Center a livelier place, and provide more destinations, such as restaurants and cafes.
- The residential component should include both homeownership and rental, for a mix of incomes and household types.
- Provide a permanent home for the Lents International Farmers Market.
- Many people would like to see a grocery store somewhere in the Town Center.
- He would like to see local businesses and services emphasized, not chain stores.
He added that public spaces should be well conceived and maintained.
At another table, Joseph Readdy, SERA architects, makes sure he understands a neighbor’s idea for the site.
Next steps
“It’s very early really in the process,” stated Sauvie. “The PDC has not yet issued their Request for Proposal. Hopefully that’ll happen sometime this summer. As a best guess, the PDC might receive proposals and make decisions sometime before the end of the year.”
We later learned that the PDC officials say they will issue a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) to solicit proposals from development teams no earlier than summer 2008. The RFQ process is intended to generate interest from many development teams, all of whom will be rated competitively. Any questions about the RFQ process should be directed to Justin Douglas, (503) 823-4579, or douglasj@pdc.us.
© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
Why is this ‘stationary carnival’ more popular than ever? Find out what we learned, when we stopped by their birthday party …
Erica, Alexia, and Kayla (she’s also having a birthday today!) Jimenez are here enjoying a slice of Oaks Amusement Park 103rd Anniversary cake.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
For people who live in most cities of our size, the only time folks can take a spin on thrill rides, play midway games, and see live entertainment, is when a carnival comes to town.
Fortunately, Portlanders can “get away from it all” all summer long – as they have for 103 years – at historic Oaks Amusement Park.
Emily McKay, promotions manager, cuts cake for guests visiting them during their 103rd anniversary celebration.
Celebrating 103 years of fun
Built by the Oregon Water Power and Railway Company, it opened on May 30, 1905 – making it one of the oldest continuously-operating amusement parks in the nation.
“It’s important to celebrate Oaks Park,” said Emily McKay, promotions manager for the park, “because coming here to play has been a Portland tradition since the days of the horse and buggy. When you come here, you get to see what Portlanders experienced so many years ago.”
Amusement rides – old classics and new state-of-the-art ones – stand side-by-side at the park.
When we visited during the park’s anniversary celebration on June 7, we were reminded how well it has blended the thrills of today’s high-tech rides with the more genteel pastimes of yesteryear.
As we strolled around the midway, McKay pointed out, “We’ve taken care of our classic rides; some of them have entertained guests for more than 60 years. And, we’ve added new, exciting rides for the brave.”
This historic roller-coaster still thrills Oaks Park patrons.
Acres of recreation
The 44-acre park is more than just rides, McKay reminded us. “The roller skating rink, the largest in the country, has been here for 102 years. It’s the last rink in the world to feature live music played on a Wurlitzer theater organ. Today’s kids may not know it, but their great-grandparents may have enjoyed the same rink.”
In addition to hosting events such as the Multnomah County Fair, and Oktoberfest, the park offers special areas in which many companies, organizations, and large families host catered picnics under the oak trees for which the park is named. And Oaks Park sells a wide variety of reasonably- priced “fair fare” to hungry carnival goers.
And, an area overlooking the Willamette River provides picnic tables dedicated to families who bring their own basket lunch.
Kids of all ages can take a leisurely spin around the park on the miniature railroad train.
Expecting a bustling summer season
With fuel prices soaring, McKay said they expect many people will stay in town. “There are no gate admission, parking, or picnic fees. We want folks to come have a safe, wholesome day with their families.”
We asked McKay why she seemed so enthusiastic about her job. “I’m in love with it; I’ve come here almost every day since I was six years old. I’m sure your family will love it too.”
Oaks Amusement Park, once a for-profit family business, but today in the permanent care of a nonprofit corporation established to benefit Portland by its former owners, is located near the foot of S.E. Tacoma Street.
They’re open Tuesday through Sunday. For more information, we’ll take you to their web site of you CLICK HERE!
Some of the Oaks Park rides – like this one – are not for the timid.
© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
The program was both delightful and moving – for several reasons.
Read this, and see why …
Members of the Parkrose High School Thespian Troupe 1783 perform “Reality Check I”.
Story and (some) photos by David F. Ashton
As the lights dimmed, the background music faded, and the curtain at the Parkrose High School Theater rose, the applause was for the student actors of Parkrose High School Thespian Troupe 1783 themselves, not for the roles they were about to play.
To start off the evening, the cast of “Reality Check I” – a show that uses humorous skits to demonstrate good behavior, performed at Parkrose’s Sacramento, Shaver, and Russell Elementary schools this spring – presented their show. Although written with young kids in mind, the humor held up for the largely adult audience.
Derek Herman entertains with a moving solo performance. Patrick Smith Photography
Incoming troupe president Tom Crawford performs his solo “reading” – it wasn’t read; it was well-acted. Patrick Smith Photography
This hilarious musical theatre piece from “Spamalot” was deftly performed by Jacquelle Davis & Steven Ennis. Patrick Smith Photography
Induction and awards ceremony
Members of the troupe were invited onto the stage. When seated, they donned the ceremonial cap.
Intermingled with the telling of the thespian tradition, student actors performed moving readings, a duo guitar piece by Jason McGhee & Jacob Pratt, and a never-to-be forgotten (it was that good) adagio dance number.
Yes, your reporter was privileged to wear the ceremonial cap – light the candle – take the pledge, and become an honorary member of the troupe. Patrick Smith Photography
In addition to the official induction ceremony, presentation of awards, honor stoles, and graduating senior awards, both Parkrose High School band teacher Michael Tolon and David Ashton, editor of East Portland News, were made honorary members of Thespian Troop number 1783.
Introducing the incoming officers: (back row) Tom Crawford, President, Junior; Brian Fitzgerald, Vice President, Junior; Heather Grassel, Historian, Sophomore; (lower level) Mackenzie Billick-Smith, Secretary, Sophomore; Kiely Simmons, Oregon State Board Member, Junior; Ciera Willis, Clerk, Junior; Derek Herman, Historian, Junior. Of course, when school starts this fall, they’ll be in the next grade!
After the ceremony, the actors, their family and friends retired for a reception fit for a Hollywood actor. Patrick Smith Photography
My special thanks to Patrick Smith for the photos – we were a bit occupied during the ceremony!
© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
Find out how this market’s organizers are meeting the needs of its ‘food-insecure’ residents – and how everyone benefits …
Jill Kuehler, Lents International Farmers Market Manager, talks with a customer at the Community Table on the market’s opening day.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
The most recent local open-air marketplace to open for the year, on June 15, was the Lents International Farmers Market.
“Last year was our first full season,” said manager Jill Kuehler. “We had an average of about 400 customers and 8 vendors every Sunday last year. This year we’re doubling our number of vendors, and we hope to double our number of customers as well.”
Meeting community’s food needs
Three years ago, Kuehler said, a research project showed that about 25% of Lents-area residents felt insecure about the availability of, and the ability to buy, fresh and wholesome food in the area.
“Of all the ideas the group came up with, an international farmer’s market is what really resonated with the neighborhood,” explained Kuehler.
Offering freshly grown greens, raised at the Portland State University Learning Lab Gardens on SE 60th Street, are graduate students Stephanie Rooney, assistant manager, and Jeanne Ferreira, garden manager. They accept donations, and give produce to families in need.
Fresh from the farm
An dependably early sell-out at this market each week is the eggs Bonnie Hodge brings from her Brookside Farms, ten blocks from this market. One customer quipped, has he snapped up a dozen, “These eggs are so fresh, I don’t think the hens have had time to miss them.” Hodge warned, “Once you’ve tried farm-fresh eggs, there’s no going back.”
“Blooming Goodies” returned this season their stunning flower bouquets and unique Asian produce. “Caspian Blossoms”, new to the market this year, sells Turkish and Arabic pastries, plus olive spreads, eggplant dips, and dolmas – an Eastern European stuffed vegetable dish.
Three cultural celebrations planned
Scattered throughout the summer, the market has planned events celebrating the culture of Eastern Europe (July 13), Southeast Asia (Aug. 17), and Latin America (Sept. 21).
“These events promote the cultural diversity of Lents residents and the market vendors, while creating an educational opportunity for people to learn more about their neighbors,” noted Kuehler.
While her mom and dad shop, Ailee Pederson creates artwork at the market’s children’s center.
Weekly music and activities
Musical entertainment, cooking demonstrations showing how to prepare many of the more exotic vegetables available at the market, and children’s activities, are offered each week.
Prepared foods and beverages from Parkrose’s “Traveling Coffee Kids” rolling kitchen, fresh fruit pies and pastries, and Mexican delicacies are also available. We enjoyed a delicious chicken-and-vegetable tamale prepared by a family participating in the Hacienda CDC program called “Micro Mercantes” – it teaches entrepreneurial skills, while providing economic opportunities.
Plans July food stamp promotion
“As part of our mission, we accept food stamps,” commented Kuehler. “During the month of July, we’ll help stretch their value by giving these customers extra value. For every food stamp dollar spent, the market will match it, up to $5 each week.”
Kuehler asked us to thank their major supporters: Zenger Farm, a non-profit farm and wetland in outer southeast Portland, Kaiser Permanente Community Fund of the Northwest Health Foundation, and New Seasons Markets.
Where and when
Lents International Farmers Market
- Where: The corner of SE 92nd Avenue and Foster Road.
- When: Sundays, 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. through October 14
To learn more, CLICK HERE or call (503) 621-7655
© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
See why this farmer’s market on SE Stark St. packs ’em in,
even with an earlier start …
Manager at the Montavilla Farmers Market, Gretchan Jackson takes a break and welcomes us to their market, along with volunteer coordinator Tonya Stark and volunteer Monica Rotzen.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Before they opened for business last year, neighbors who organized the Montavilla Farmers Market wondered if anyone would stop and shop at their lot, located across the street from the landmark Mr. Plywood store.
Instead of counting a couple hundred visitors, this market has been attracting shoppers by the thousands, said Gretchan Jackson the market’s manager. “We’ve counted around 2,000 shoppers at each market; we have really consistent crowds all day long. We opened on June 7 and had about 1,900 visitors during our four hours of market.”
At the market, Nicolette Purcell and Carol Kiel buy their fresh vegetables mere blocks from where they live.
Weather delays crops, not shoppers
There are fewer fresh fruit and vegetable vendors at the start of the season, commented Jackson. “Our farmers tell us the cool weather is delaying their crops about two to three weeks. While we’re featuring 19 vendors today, that number will grow to around 30 at the height of growing season.”
On this day, it looked like market vendors were having brisk sales as neighbors came by to shop.
After tasting the giant strawberry, Ruby Anderson says she found it a bit tart for her taste. She came with her aunt – they live near Creston Park.
Nicolette Purcell liked the looks of produce at one stand in particular. “I live close by in the South Tabor neighborhood.”I come here because I want to support local farmers, and I get the very best produce in town, week after week.”
Another shopper, Carol Kiel, told us she lives just blocks away. “I love the fact I can get fresh produce straight from hands of those who grew it, and support them directly.”
‘Buns on the Run’ server Jessica Curtin serves up a freshly-made sausage to Jeanine Diamond. The savory scent was so inviting, we dined on a chicken sausage made with garlic and Portobello mushrooms – it was delicious.
Community gathering place
In addition to the market’s providing them with reasonably-priced fresh food, all of the shoppers with whom we spoke said the secondary reason for their weekly visits to the market was to mingle with their neighbors.
“I’m really pleased to see our market has become a real community space,” Jackson agreed. “It provides a place for neighbors to come, shop, enjoy live music, and have conversations about issues great and small.”
A new vendor this year, Clint Bissell at “Liquid Sunshine” squeezes up a fresh strawberry lemonade.
Where and when
Montavilla Farmer’s Market
- Where: 7600 block of SE Stark Street across from “Mr. Plywood”
- When: Sundays, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., except July 6, until October 5
To learn more, CLICK HERE to visit their website and get on their e-mail newsletter list.
© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
Although they came from far and wide, few vets checked out the information tables set up for them, but everyone seemed to be having a good time …
Mustering for the Colors Ceremony are representatives from Northwest Indian Veterans (NWIV) members Alvey Seyouma, NWIV V.A. Chair; Hopei Tribe from N. Arizona; Louis Pacheco, a Piute who served with the 7th division in Korea; Arnie Holt, president of NWVA, who served with the 101st airborne and member Kavel Kaval Federated tribes; Chuck Dougherty, a Vietnam veteran in the 1st Air Cavalry Division; Darwin Hartman, Cherokee; Vern Wilson, U.S. Army, who served at Ft. Lewis, Washington; and Bruce Brown, U.S. Army Chemical Corps in Maryland during Korean conflict.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Military veterans were treated to a day of picnic lunches, music, and politicians’ promises at Oaks Amusement Park a couple of weeks ago.
“Today we’re having a ‘welcome home’ celebration for our Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom veterans,” said Mike McAleer, Public Affairs Officer for Portland Veteran’s Administration (V.A.) Medical Center.
“We’ve invited them to come and learn about benefits and services available – we have over 35 tables set up where they can gather information about jobs, education, and V.A. benefits,” McAleer went on. “We’re happy to do anything we can to help these folks transition back home after their service to the government.”
One of the many volunteers giving out information bags is Kathy Hunt, who works at the V.A. in the Operative Care Department.
Cody Szabo with SuperDog – they catered the event – here, serving up hotdogs.
Giving a big ‘thank you’
The Bridgetown Big Band played World War II vintage melodies as veterans and their family members filtered into the area, marked off with a two-story high arch made of red, white, and blue helium balloons.
In addition to providing information, the event was planned to allow the VA to “Give our veterans a big thank you, and let them know we’re here for them and their needs – now that they’ve taken care of our needs,” said McAleer, a Vietnam-era veteran. “I also was in Iraq twice with the Army Corps of Engineers as a public affairs officer for the reconstruction we did over there.”
US Senator Ron Wyden takes a moment to talk with VA officials before he goes on stage.
Vets need more help, Wyden says
Then the band took a break, and V.A. officials and political dignitaries took the stage.
US Senator Ron Wyden started off by quipping, “For senators, a keynote speech usually lasts for an hour or so.” Wyden then turned to his hosts and said, “I’m afraid they think I’m serious!”
He continued, “In our country, we believe that those who honor us by wearing our uniform, and put themselves in harm’s way to defend our freedoms, should have good-quality health care when they come home. I think we have seen this at the Portland V.A., with the resources they have. But too often, the priorities are bent out of whack. There haven’t been the dollars for the doctors, the programs, and shortening the waiting lines, to make sure people get their services in a timely way.”
Wyden calls for more, and better, benefits for U.S. Armed Forces veterans.
Calls for ‘equal benefits”
Wyden complained that the “G.I. Bill” hasn’t kept pace with the times, especially in Oregon. “We don’t have the big military bases like they have back east. And so we don’t have the same number of folks in the active military. What we have is a tremendous number of courageous Oregonians who have gone into the National Guard and Reserve – and we now have one of the highest percentages in the country of people serving in the Guard and Reserve. And they don’t get the same benefits that you get under the G.I. Bill.
“If you’re a soldier, dodging the same bullets, in the same place, for the same length of time – you’re entitled to equal benefits. We want to get those for our soldiers who are serving our country.”
U.S. House Representative, fifth District, Darlene Hooley, on the Oaks Park stage to thank veterans’ family members for their sacrifices.
Hooley echoes sentiments
US House Representative, fifth District, Darlene Hooley followed, thanking the veterans present for their service to our country, saying, “You do us proud. You’re the ones who make sure that we have a safe country in which to live and keep our freedoms.”
Corbett Craig, First 327 101st Airbore from Ft. Campbell; “we were over in Iraq twice, each time for one year,” he said, as his face was painted by volunteer Paula Holmes.
After saying she agreed with Wyden’s remarks, Hooley added, “If you are a veteran’s family member, or a friend who has supported veterans, I thank you for the sacrifices you and your family have made.”
With that, the veterans and their family members were provided with hot dog lunches, with the opportunity to visit the information booths, and were given wrist bands allowing them to ride the thrill rides at Oaks Park for free.
We saw a few veterans picking up information provided by the 35 organizations that set up tables at the event.
© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
The stove burner didn’t work, they said – but find how much damage this kitchen fire caused, when kitchen grease ignited …
Firefighters pull equipment off their truck. Because it occurred during the day – when the residents were awake, and in the house – tragedy was averted when a stove burner, thought to be out-of-commission, set this home’s kitchen on fire.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
The alarm sounded at 1:04 p.m. on June 15 – and Portland Fire & Rescue’s Station 25 crew answered the call, and headed for a house in the 7800 block of SE 68th Avenue; they arrived in four minutes.
Even though we arrived on scene just minutes after the emergency dispatch hit the airwaves, firefighters had already extinguished the blaze, and were removing burnt debris from the house.
“When we arrived, we found a kitchen fire,” said Lt. Phil Loving, who was riding with Engine 25. “It got a bit out of control and into the cabinets. We had it extinguished quickly, but there was a lot of smoke damage.”
Said stove burners didn’t work
Lt. Allen Oswalt, fire department spokesman, reported the exact cause of the brief blaze that did $45,000 worth of damage to the home.
“The homeowner said that only two of the four burners on the electric stove worked – and he stored pots, with grease in them, on the non-working burners,” Oswalt reported. “The fire started in a pan left on the left rear burner that supposedly didn’t work. The stove was unattended.”
Although damage was limited to the kitchen area, smoke made the Inner Southeast home uninhabitable, and the destruction was estimated at $45,000.
Basic fire safety rules ignored
Oswalt said that, fortunately, no one was injured, and the fire damage was limited.
“Two of the most important rules of preventing a house fire were ignored in this incident: Never leave anything unattended on the stove, and always make sure you have a working smoke detector,” warned Oswalt.
Cooking fires are the leading cause of home fires across the country, he added. “And, we’ve all heard of the tragedies that happen every year – people dying needlessly in house fires. In this instance, what if the fire had occurred while the occupant was sleeping? With no working smoke alarm, the outcome could have been deadly!”
It’s a wrap! Firefighters pick up their hoses after putting out the kitchen fire.
Cheap and easy protection
Smoke alarms are cheap and easy to test, the bureau spokesman went on. “If you don’t have one, there is a smoke detector hotline (503) 823-3752: If you qualify, PF&R will provide one and install it. How easy is that?”
He added that for renters, the landlord is required by law to provide a working smoke alarm at the time of lease signing. It is the renter’s task to test it and make sure it works, however.
“Fire safety is your responsibility,” Oswalt concluded. “Don’t let you or your loved ones become a statistic!”
© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
You’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at what its like for a SE Portland area teenager to be named as the Portland Rose Festival Queen, when you read this story …
Cleveland High’s Portland Rose Festival Princess, Marshawna Williams, greets the Memorial Coliseum crowd.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
By now, getting up early in the morning wasn’t unusual for this 18-year-old Cleveland High School senior. For weeks, Marshawna Williams, the school’s 2008 Portland Rose Festival Princess, arose at the crack of dawn to participate in a wide variety of activities, along with other princesses on the Rose Festival Court.
On June 7, when Williams rolled out of bed at the pre-dawn hour of 4:00 a.m., she didn’t know her life was about to change. At 9:12 a.m., Williams was crowned Queen Marshawna, the second Cleveland grad in three years to earn the honor of representing Portland Rose Festival for the next twelve months.
Tens of thousands of people watching TV saw Queen Marshawna briefly take the throne set up in the middle of Memorial Coliseum, be given the crown and scepter, and then ride off on a float in the Portland Rose Festival Grand Floral Parade.
Moments after being named “Queen Marshawna” of this year’s Rose Festival, Williams is at a near loss for words.
Caught up in a flood of emotions, Queen Marshawna wipes a tear from her eye.
A royal interview
While previously attending her selection as Cleveland High’s Princess, we learned Williams was co-president of the Black Student Union, Student Body VP, and an active member of National Honors Society.
We wondered what made this poised young lady so special as to be chosen as Portland’s grand festival ambassador. While Queen Marshawna was too busy with her many appearances during the festival to speak with us, we were granted an interview after the conclusion of the main festivities.
Queen Marshawna is crowned Queen of Rosaria.
With crown and scepter in hand, Queen Marshawna is ready to begin her one-year reign to end at the start of next year’s Portland Rose Festival.
A queen in the making
“I’ve never been in a pageant of any kind,” Williams began. “In a sense, trying out to be Cleveland’s representative on the Rose Festival Court fell into my lap. It was a new experience I wanted to try out.”
Williams said she tendered her application to begin the process. “I was judged on how I carry and express myself. I learned some skills that I didn’t even know I have! I remember being a little nervous when I gave my speech. It was a close vote, I learned.”
After the excitement of the selection program subsided, Williams said she had the feeling that it was “meant to be. I didn’t prepare for this.”
Queen Marshawna walks down the aisle, and into the Portland Rose Festival history books.
Life on the Court
We learned that Portland Rose Festival Princesses wrap up their high school year early, on April 28. Instead of getting up for school, Rose Festival Court members begin to “work” 40-hour weeks, as they ride in neighborhood parades, attend luncheons, and promote the festival.
“It’s like we’re ‘on stage’ all day, every day, from 7 a.m. until 9 p.m.,” related Williams. “It’s wonderful, because people are happy to see us; but it means we have to stay ‘up and positive’ all of the time.”
A happy memory that stood out for Williams was when the Pendleton Round-Up and Happy Canyon Court came to town. “We all went for a Jet Boat on the Willamette River, and had dinner at the Old Spaghetti Factory.”
Williams also told us of poignant moments when they visited one of many nursing and assisting homes. “At first, I felt a little uncomfortable meeting patients with dementia. One woman came over and took my hand – she was speaking a language I didn’t understand. But, just my listening to her seemed to cheer her up.”
Composure regained, Queen Marshawna gives her first interview to the waiting media reporters and cameras.
The big day
On the day of the queen’s selection, Williams said she got up at 4 a.m. and was at the festival’s Lloyd Center offices at 4:30 a.m. for check-in, and to start fixing her hair and putting on her makeup.
With shoes and gowns in hand, she and the other Princesses next arrived at Memorial Coliseum. In a side room, the princesses were treated to the catered “Royal Breakfast” at 7 a.m. “It was good. I had a lot of fruit, and some sausage and eggs, too.”
As the coronation program was beginning, Williams said the Princesses helped each other get ready, putting on finishing touches with makeup and slipping into their gowns.
Over the PA system, the Master of Ceremonies called the Princesses’ names, one by one, as they came out to greet the crowd.
“I remember being nervous when I heard my name. I was thinking, ‘What if I’m selected; or what if it isn’t me?’ I remember walking down the carpet to the stage; across it, and down to my seat. I was walking fast.”
At the program’s end, when the MC read her name, Williams said, “I was excited, and laughing and sad – all at the same time.”
All hail Queen Marshawna! She and her court ride off on their float in the June 7 Grand Floral Parade.
Queen’s-eye view of the parade
Williams said she doesn’t remember much of the impromptu press conference following her crowning, but she started to relax when she, and her royal court, mounted their float in the Portland Rose Festival Grand Floral Parade.
“As we got on the float, a couple of the girls said they were hungry. Our ‘Royal Coachman’ – Gary, our bus driver – brought pepperoni sticks for us to eat, when we make long stops along the route.”
“Trying to make it up the hill from the Convention Center, on NE Weidler Street, our float either stalled or ran out of gas, and we had to be towed,” Williams recalled. “And, later in the parade, we got stuck in a pothole. It was a fun and interesting ride!”
As announcers at outlying reviewing stands along the route stumbled while pronouncing her name, Williams realized many parade-goers hadn’t gotten the word who had been crowned, but everyone smiled and waved.
“It was really fun seeing all the people along the route. A little girl holding a sign that read, ‘I love you Queen Marshawna’. A whole line of friends from Cleveland High were standing on the Burnside Bridge, cheering me.”
Portland Police Bureau East Precinct Officers Mark De Long and Jacob Clark are part of the bike patrol assigned to the Grand Floral Parade route.
Representing Portland abroad
Williams said she looks forward to appearing at the Pendleton Round Up later this year, and may represent Portland at the Pasadena Parade of Roses festival in Southern California on New Year’s Day.
“I’m also looking forward to visiting our sister city in China, Kaohsiung, R.O.C.”
Back to being a teenager
This fall, Williams said she’ll be entering the University of Portland to study environmental engineering with a minor in business.
And, while Williams said she’s looking to enjoy a little time off, she added, “I already miss the girls and our chaperones. We had so much fun together. But I’m looking forward to being a teenager again and taking a little time off. I woke up with a start the other morning at 7 a.m. – but realized I wasn’t late – I didn’t have to go anywhere!”
© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News Service
You see their marching band and dance team in the Portland Rose Festival parade every year – now, learn about the fabulous, colorful stage show that only a very few are privileged to attend …
Some of the musicians we meet backstage from Shu-te High School band in Kaohsiung, R.O.C. give us a smile, before going onstage for their show.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
The only officially-sanctioned 2008 Portland Rose Festival event that took place east of 82nd Avenue of Roses was a stage performance of the Shu-te High School students from Kaohsiung, R.O.C., at the Horner Performance Arts Center on the David Douglas High School campus this week.
Although each of the three performances on June 9 was given before a standing-room-only audience, we find that very few folks even know this energetic, colorful, and emotionally-moving show took place. We later found out why this event got so little publicity, as we’ll explain — please read on!
David Douglas School District Superintendent Barbara Rommel greets the standing-room-only audience, in the Horner Performing Arts Center on the high school’s campus.
Meeting the band
Before the show, we went backstage with the theater’s manager, Mark Taylor.
In the scenic shop, we stopped to talk with some of the student musicians. Without the aid of an interpreter, our meeting limited to mutual smiles. When we held up the camera, they immediately struck a group pose, as one would expect from teenagers.
In the past, all of the musicians and dancers from Shu-te High School were female. The young ladies pointed out a young man in their midst and said, “We now have one boy playing with us. It is so exciting!”
Dancers warm up before their energetic performance on the stage at David Douglas High School.
Music and movement
After the introduction of representatives from the city and schools of Kaohsiung, the Portland-Kaohsiung Sister City Association, the Portland Rose Festival, and David Douglas School District, the band played and the curtain went up the show – entitled “The Night of Kaohsiung”.
During their music-and-dance number, “The Gorgeous Spring”, the dancers depicted a field of flowers as they opened. Nine acts followed; five of the numbers featured the band only. The fourth presentation featured a spirited drum solo, played by a diminutive young lady with such gusto that the hall reverberated.
Taylor and his crew of David Douglas High theater arts students provided professional, evocative lighting that enhanced every scene.
Dancers perform a work entitled “The Gorgeous Spring”.
Locals host world travelers
“For the past 15 years, student ambassadors from Shu-te High School have been hosted by Portland-area families during their Portland stay,” said the coordinator of the event, Dr. Richard Cole, Ph.D., when we talked with him after the group’s last Portland appearance.
“The reason the event isn’t promoted is that the host families are the focus of the evening performance. If tickets remain, they are distributed to others involved in our ‘sister city’ program,” explained Cole.
Earlier that day, the young visiting entertainers give two performances, before groups of fifth-grade students in the David Douglas School District, Cole said. “Our students were able to gain a first-hand understanding of the music, dance, and celebration enjoyed in China. It is that kind of education that helps promote international understanding.”
In addition to their being invited to this special program, members of several past host families have kept in contact with the girls they hosted; some have traveled to Taiwan to visit them. “This is a wonderful first-hand cultural experience for both the hosts and the girls,” noted Cole.
The Shu-te High School Band plays traditional Chinese instruments, some of them invented thousands of years ago.
Helps provide a world view
Cole has been involved in this unique cultural exchange program since the time he was the Curriculum Coordinator at the school district.
“My wife suggested we go and watch their performance in 1993,” recalled Cole. “I was so taken by the performance, I started coordinating the Host Family program, became a board member, and later president of the Portland-Kaohsiung Sister City Association. Even though I retired in 1995, I’ve been with the organization ever since.”
The one-on-one diplomatic exchange between dignitaries and students from Kaohsiung and Portlanders allows people of diverse cultures to gain an understanding of one another, Cole commented. “Over the years, thousands of young people from China have been introduced to American culture and the kindness of our people. And, we have been enriched by their visits and cultural performances.”
“Rising Winds and Surging Clouds” dance depicts a storm chasing the dragons underground.
Visitors have a full schedule
The reason more performances of the Shu-te High School band and dance troupe aren’t scheduled is that their six-day stay is packed with activities. Other that taking time for a sightseeing trip around the Mt. Hood loop, the students have a full schedule.
“They rehearse for and participate in the Portland Rose Festival Grand Floral Parade,” noted Cole. “Some of the girls take part in the International Friendship Race at the Dragon Boat races. Then, they rehearse, and prepare for their three shows on Monday.”
Dramatic lighting enhance the tightly choreographed dance numbers presented by the troupe.
Calls it a fabulous program
David Douglas School District Superintendent Barbara Rommel talked with us about the educational exchange program.
“We’ve had a long-standing sister-school relationship with Shu-te High,” Rommel said. “The interaction, especially between the host families in the homes where our student guests stay, is a culturally broadening experience.”
In addition to the truly fabulous performance, Rommel added, “It is critically important for our students to have knowledge in other parts of the world. This relationship broadens their appreciation of the arts in another part of the world. It shows us all that people who live in a land distant and different from ours are also caring, talented, and intelligent.”
© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
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