Learn how one local company has kept reinventing itself for 100 years – and find what else is happening, as we catch up with the Parkrose Business Association.

Paul Sawyer of Miller Paints shows a new line of “green designer” paints the company is putting on the market.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Last month’s meeting of the Parkrose Business Association featured Miller Paint Co.’s secret of success; how a local family is “tops in taps” – actually all kinds of dancing shoes and apparel; a scholarship financial appeal; and more information on a new August 2nd area-wide event.

Miller paints a rosy future
In this age of business consolidation, Parkrose-based Miller Paint Company has resisted the “urge to merge”, and is one of the few stand-alone paint companies left, according to company President Paul Sawyer.

“We’re a fiercely independent company owned by 290 employees,” Sawyer declared.

President Paul Sawyer says the Miller Paint Company has been around for a century.

The paint company was founded by Earnest Miller, whose main occupation was being a muralist. “For the 1904 Exposition, Earnest Miller painted a large and long banner that depicted Lewis and Clark coming over Mt. Hood and ending in Oregon City,” Sawyer said.

The founder’s son, Walt Miller, worked with his father, and ended up running the company until he was 90 years old. In 1999, Miller became an employee-owned company.

Sets strategic plan
“Our industry is shrinking,” Sawyer said ruefully. “Now there are four major players. We knew we had to make a plan.”

The employee-owners created a “2010 Strategic Plan”, based on quality products and exceptional service. “We had to take what we did the best and kick it up a notch. We ask our people ‘Are you committed to it, and will you do it?'”

“Buying paint isn’t a spur-of-the-moment decision”, Sawyer explained. “In Portland, there are hundreds of places to buy paint. We had to create stores with a sense of destination, featuring good advice, fast service, and beautiful colors.”

Instead of simply handing out paint “chips”, Miller Paints’ line of designer-inspired paint samples now come in pouches.

Sawyer showed two small plastic cards; one was their “Basic Extraordinary Service Tool”, listing their seven points of good customer service.

“We call the other one the ‘Get out of jail free’ card. If an employee has the chance to really ‘wow’ a customer with great service – you do it. If your supervisor questions you about it – you hand them the card,” Sawyer explained.

Product innovations
Sawyer touted their “green” line of zero-solvent-based products – and said that Miller became a leader in reducing carbon-emissions by introducing the paint in 1996.

“Divine Color” was a new line of paint created by a Lake Oswego artist. “Instead of paint swatches, we ship small pouches of paint so the buyer can actually see the result on their own wall.”

Thanks to bio-mimicry, Sawyer says, rain will actually wash dirt off Millers’ newest paint.

“Miller has signed a 10-year exclusive agreement with a company in Germany that has been doing bio-mimicry – finding things in nature that are unique, and replicating them through manufacturing. Like the lotus plant, our newest coatings won’t absorb water. The point is, rain washes dirt-coated surfaces.”

In support of the August 2nd Parkrose Festival and Cruise-in, Wayne Stoll pitches, “50 banners will be placed along NE Sandy Boulevard. Your name should be on on!” Holding the sample banner are Amy Salvador and Ansley Stoll.

Businesses pitch in for scholarship fund
The Miller presentation done, the Parkrose Business Association’s President, Michael Taylor turned to the organization’s scholarship fund: “Last year, it rained on the Cruise-in, and we didn’t do well. We’ve struggled to provide all of the scholarships we wanted. It goes against our grain to reduce the number of scholarships.”

Then, Taylor announced that an anonymous donor has chipped in $500 to support a scholarship.

Nancy Murphy, Bank of the West, presents a sponsoring scholarship check for $500 to the Parkrose organization.

Bank of the West Manager Nancy Murphy, brought up a $500 check; and additional sponsorship was shared by Compaction & Recycling Equipment and Bob Brown Tires. Taylor announced, “We’ve got it covered. This is what makes our community great.”

Kyle Ziegler talks about their family’s new business, Carrie B’s Dance Shop.

Parkrose people buy Midway-area business
The spotlighted business at this particular meeting was Carrie B’s Dance Shop. “In May, we bought this 35-year old business,” said owner Kyle Ziegler – also the owner of CastleGate Realty in Parkrose. “The previous owner built an Internet-based business from the 575-square-foot storefront; we ship dancewear, shoes, and accessories around the world.”

Meet the members
The Parkrose Business Association, one of our favorite groups, meets at one of our favorite restaurants.

Come on June 19 at 11:30 a.m. and meet this group of fun and energized businesspeople. This month, the PBA Scholarship Committee presents the Parkrose High students selected for scholarship awards. And, you’ll learn more about the all-new Parkrose Festival & Cruise-in in August.

You’ll get the best business lunch at town at Steamers Restaurant, 8303 NE Sandy Blvd. (east of NE 82nd Avenue); NO reservations required. For info: www.parkrosebusiness.org.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

How about “they sing for stands”? Take a look, and you’ll see why choir members are working hard to get new performance equipment …

The Parkrose High “A-Choir” performs at a special fund-raising concert at Parkrose United Methodist Church.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
After 35 years of use, the risers – the stands used by the choir – at Parkrose High School were carted out to the dump just a few weeks ago.

“After taking a long look at our old risers, and choral shell,” said choir and voice instructor Lesley Ann Bossert, “We all agreed they had to go. It was getting to the point where safety might be an issue.”

With that in mind, the choir has taken on a new project: Replacing this much-needed equipment. The risers allow singers to stand in rows, each higher than the last. The choral shell helps the singers’ voices project.

Standing on the far left, Kiet Tran leads a men’s ensemble at the Parkrose fundraising concert.

May concert features jazz
Their concert on May 18 took place at Parkrose United Methodist Church, and featured the big band sounds of Jazz Express.

This program also featured the Parkrose High School “A-Choir”. And, Parkrose High student Kiet Tran’s senior project – a men’s ensemble – also performed.

June Awards Concert

“A-Choir” member Jason McGhee gets a wardrobe adjustment by choir director Lesley Bossert.

One of the highlights of the past year, that choir director Lesley Bossert shared with the audience, was the Debonairs’ experience of participating in their first jazz festival – along with a bass and percussion player.

Bossert talked about the high scores the choirs made in competition, and complemented the student musicians who qualified at the State competitions.

We can’t let you hear their wonderful music – but we can share photos of these talented students with you!

The Treble Choir was up first. They sang “Fly Me to the Moon”, “Ain’t That News”, “Danny Boy” and finished up with an energetic presentation of “Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy”. By the way, they’re standing on borrowed risers!

Under the direction of Parkrose High’s choir director, Lesley Bossert, many outer East Portland students have gained solid musical skills.

The Debonaires perform – with their combo – the songs “Turnaround”, “Lullaby on the Hudson” and “Down St. Thomas Way”.

The Concert Choir showed a wide range of musical skills as they performed “Song of the Sea”, “A Canon of Praise” and a toe-tapping medley: “Disney Dazzle”.

The renowned “A-Choir” performs “Arroz Con Leche”, Bogorodiste Devo”, and “Thoroughly Modern Millie”.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Looks like their second season will be a “barn buster” – read this, and see what you’ll find – including their new barn …

Thanks to material donors – and volunteer labor provided by Stark Construction Services – this barn is now finished, in time for the opening of Montavilla Farmer’s Market’s second season.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Coming off their premiere season last year, the Montavilla Farmer’s Market is set to open on June 8.

This season, Montavilla’s market will feature its own landmark – a custom built barn.

Roger Stark, Jesse Stark, and Greg Anderson with Stark Construction Services here work to complete a custom-built barn, on the farmer’s market site.

Builders host ‘barn-raising’
“We’re volunteering our time to help out here at the Montavilla Farmer’s Market, by building the storage barn,” said Jesse Stark, between hammering nails. “They need a place to store the tents and shares on site.”

His wife, Tonia Stark, president of Stark Construction Services, is also the volunteer coordinator for the market. “We pulled together a [building] crew and some volunteers to get the site ready for another season.”

The crew built the barn from scratch. “Mr. Plywood donated about $500 worth of materials,” Stark said, noting that that New Seasons Markets also donated $1,000 toward the project, and that neighboring Flying Pie Pizzeria fed the volunteers who were preening the lot.

Nancy Yates works with Tonia Stark to clean up the Montavilla Farmers Market lot.

Grooming the grounds
“We’re also cleaning up the lot for opening day,” Stark added. “We’re weeding, and filling in the gravel and empty spots, so there won’t be puddles when it rains.”

Laboring with her was volunteer Nancy Yates. “I live nearby, and thought it was time for me to get out and help. I love the community aspect of having a farmer’s market here.”

Vendors on parade
Folks who go to visit the market will find a wide variety of vendors waiting for them. Scheduled to be there

Produce:

• Groundwork Organics, Junction City OR
• Deep Roots Farms, Albany OR
• Maryhill Orchards, Goldendale WA
• Kiyokawa Family Orchards, Parkdale OR
• Tamiyasu Orchards, Hood River OR
• Baird Family Orchards, Dundee OR
• Herr’s Family Farm, Troutdale OR
• Spellbound Farm, Portland OR
• PD Farms, Elgin OR
• Liepold Farms, Boring OR

Flower/Plant:

• Herr’s Family Farm, Troutdale OR
• American-Asian Quality Farm, Oregon City OR
• Maple Valley Nursery, Dayton OR
• Old House Dahlias, Portland OR (in Montavilla)

Bakery:

• Fleur de Lis Bakery, Portland OR
• Gabriels Bakery, Portland OR

On-Premise Ready-To-Eat Foods:

• Asian American Food-Chinese
• Hacienda-Tamales
• Wild Wild West BBQ
• Buns on the Run

Beverages:

• Cellar Door Coffee Roasters
• Liquid Sunshine

Processed Foods:

• Crabapple Company, Beaverton OR
• Must Love Dogs, Portland OR

Opening day entertainment
Organizers of the market say they’ll have live entertainment every Sunday. This week, Southern Skies – a folk music duo from Olympia, Washington – will entertain. And, a certified Master Gardener will be on hand to demonstrate sustainable growing techniques.

Kicking off the season on Sunday, June 8, the market will be open every Sunday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. until Sunday, October 5, except on July 6th, Independence Day weekend. The market takes place on the 7600 block of SE Stark Street in the gravel lot across from Mr. Plywood.

For more information, CLICK HERE to see their web site!

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Even though they are 1/10th scale models, see these hand-made watercraft zip around the Westmoreland Casting Pond at speeds up to 50 mph at this new Portland Rose Festival event …

These model racers, running on the Westmoreland Casting Pond, travel actual speeds of up to 50 mph.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
While it wasn’t the hoped-for return of the famed Milk Carton Boat Races – a watercraft competition of a different sort did return to inner SE Portland at the renovated Westmoreland Casting Pond on May 24, as part of the Portland Rose Festival.

“We’re racing 1/10th scale models of unlimited hydroplanes today,” explains Nelson Holmberg, the event’s Race Director for their club, Electric Radio Controlled Unlimiteds.

The drivers of the scale model boats pilot their craft standing on scaffolding on the west side of the pond.

“We love the Westmoreland Casting Pond,” Holmberg says. “It’s one of those places that is, in a sense, made for model boat racing. It’s shallow enough that the water stays calm; it’s perfectly shaped and sized.  It’s proving to be user-friendly for both the competitors and spectators.”

Proud to be a Rose Festival event
Although he grew up in, and still lives in, Vancouver, Holmberg tells us the Portland Rose Festival as always been “near and dear” to him. “It’s just great, bringing down members from our club – largely based in the Seattle area – to participate in a Rose Festival event located here at this facility – man, I just love it!”

While we speak, we hear Holmberg’s voice professionally and calmly counting down to the start of the next race. “That voice is recorded on our computerized timing system; it assures that every racer is given an equal opportunity to start the race in the correct position.”

SE Portland resident David Reiser prepares his scale racer, a replica of the 1958 “Breathless II” unlimited hydroplane for the next race.

Men with toy boats
While many members are from the Puget Sound area, we learn the club has about 20 active members in the greater Portland area.

Working under a canopy we meet long time inner SE Portland resident David Reiser, working on his boat – a replica of the 1958 “Breathless II” unlimited hydroplane. “In boat racing circles, it’s quite famous,” Reiser says. “It ran for three years under this name. I saw a photo of it, got ahold of the original plans, and built it.”

The race boats kick up their signature “rooster-tail” as they make the turn on the north end of the course.

As he inspects the boat, he points out that his model is crafted from wood, like the original. He points out how he’s painted the deck to simulate the 4′ x 8′ sheets of plywood used to build the original boat. We learn these scale-model speedboats cost about $2,000 to build and equip – the battery packs alone run up to $150 each. “It allows me the experience the thrills and speed of racing, without risk of injury and the expense of full-size craft.”

Having been involved with the hobby since the early 1990s, Reiser tells us the best thing about it is associating with friends who also like model boating. “It’s grown men playing with toy boats. I also enjoy the technical and engineering challenges of building and driving them.”

Considered an originator of this hobby and sport, Roger Newton shows us his winning racer, a scale model of “Miss Bardahl”.

Scale boat racing originator
People at the event told us to meet Roger Newton from Renton, Washington – acclaimed as one of the originators of model boat racing.

“I started racing scale boats back in 1968,” says Newton, “I’ve been doing it ever since.” He’s working on his model of “Miss Bardahl” at the meet. “It’s one of the most famous boats in racing history.”

Battery powered scale electric powered boats are relatively new, Newton informs us. “The electrics go pretty fast, probably close to 50 mph – it would equate to 150 mph if it were full scale.”

Newton comments that, while he enjoys running the battery-powered boats, he still likes the 1/8th scale “nitro” craft that run on a combination of white gas and nitro-methane fuel. “They do make a lot of noise; I’m pretty sure the neighbors wouldn’t be appreciative.”

About the Westmoreland Casting Pond, Newton comments, “Like it? I love it! I wish I had this in my backyard! It’s a good size, good location, and it’s got … water!”

Scale model race boats enthusiasts say this hobby gives them all of the thrills of the sport – without associated cost or danger.

Get racing here
If you’d like to know more about scale model boat racing, check out the clubs web site by CLICKING HERE.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News Service

Learn how this annual event delights young people, while it introduces their parents to this unique outer East Portland natural beauty spot …

Leach Botanical Garden volunteer Mary Lou Koehler helps Cian Colgrove make a bark planting – as his aunt, Marianne Colgrove, approvingly looks on.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
An annual event that signals the turn of spring into summer is the Leach Botanical Garden Children’s Nature Fair. Even with soaring temperatures and under a blistering-hot sun, the May 17 event drew record crowds.

Fair promotes new visitors
“The Nature Fair is a way to expose Leach Botanical Garden to the public,” explained its organizer, Katie Goodwin, “especially to people who live right here in Southeast Portland. I’ve had a number people say that they didn’t know about the garden they came to the event today. This is a wonderful way to broaden our support base – by having young families come and discover our garden.”

The coordinator of the Nature Fair, Katie Goodwin, says she’s pleased at the turnout for the event.

As we stood under the lush and green canopy of trees, Goodwin, a volunteer on the education committee and chair of the Nature Fair, beamed about the event’s success. “Today we’ve had over 300 people come to our ‘home’; that’s a record for us. About half of the visitors were children.”

Activities included making wooden “cookies”, sun catchers, and bookmarks. Kids got to dig in the dirt and do planting. The more hearty youths enjoyed the spider and insect displays.

Deena Townsen visiting from Vancouver, Washington, shows us her drawing of the Zenger Farm “visiting chicken”.

“A popular activity was going on a fossil dig with a Portland Parks & Recreation specialist,” Goodwin added. “We even had a chicken visit us here,from Zanger Farms.”

Next event: English Tea
As we were leaving, Goodwin reminded us that, although the Leach gets some support from Portland Parks & Recreation, volunteers must hold events to raise money to keep improving the grounds.

“On July 16 and 17, there’s an English Tea at Leach Botanical Garden. Visitors will enjoy a three-course English Tea served on the east terrace. This tea is elegantly served by volunteers on antique dishware and table linens. It features premium tea, scones, sandwiches, and desserts,” Goodwin promised.

Treat your friends, or take a young person to enjoy a bit of historical culture here in outer East Portland. Reserve now for July 16th or 17th; seating is at noon or 2:30 pm. Just $25 per person – and it all goes to help further the work of the Friends of Leach Garden. This event usually sells out, so call Jean at (503) 771-2486 now to reserve your place.

Doing some planting at the Nature Fair are Bode (sitting on the table), his sister Corinna, and his mom Tanya Petrich.

Tours every Saturday
You need not require a special event to enjoy Leach Botanical Garden; it is open daily. And, at 10 a.m. every Saturday morning, they host a tour of the grounds.

Leach Botanical Garden is located at 6704 SE 122nd Avenue (just south of Foster Road).

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

See what planners learned when they checked in with residents – including kids – while drawing up plans for the 15-acre Beech Park site …

Park consultant Aaron Abrams writes down neighbors’ suggestions, as Sally McIntyre facilitates the meeting at Shaver Elementary School. Both are from MIG, Inc.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Until neighbor volunteers talked the City of Portland into allowing them to build the small Senn’s Dairy Park on NE Prescott St., the Parkrose neighborhood was entirely devoid of developed parks.

Although the actual creation of an expansive, nearly 16-acre park is still way off in the future, Portland Parks & Recreation has hired a firm to gather input about how the uniquely-situated Beech Park will look when it is improved.

Park on two parcels
The Beech Park site is unusual; it consists of two separate parcels adjacent to Shaver Elementary School.

The 10.07-acre southern parcel is bordered by the school on the east side, and by homes on the south and west sides. Directly north of the school is a second 5.64-acre parcel; bordered on the north and west by houses, on the south by the school and more houses, and on the west by a working urban farm.

This diagram, including an aerial view of the parcels, shows the two sections of land that will make up Beech Park. NE Shaver Street is at the top if the diagram, and Shaver Elementary School is at the bottom right.

Diverse, but harmonious, views expressed
In May, a series of workshops were conducted to solicit ideas and concerns from neighbors, business people – and children.

“There were diverse cultures present at the workshop,” Sally McIntyre, of the parks consulting company, MIG, Inc., told us. “It looked like everyone felt free to participate; and they all seemed to get along very well. We’re hoping that kind of participation continues.”

The consensus gathered from workshops, and questionnaires distributed throughout the surrounding area, showed that folks are “Looking to create a place for neighbors to enjoy, plus have a place that can be used by the school for educational programs,” commented McIntyre. “Our mission is to make sure the designs reflect what people want; that it fits in with the nature of the neighborhood.”

We stopped in at one workshop (on May 19). The back wall of the Shaver Elementary School gym was covered with design ideas which the school’s kids had submitted earlier in the day. About 35 adults were there, sharing their dreams for the park’s development.

“The kids were really interested in having ‘water features’ on the site,” noted McIntyre.

Comments and concerns raised
Al Garre – he farms land to the west of the park parcels – posed questions about access within and around the park. “I hope there’s some way of discouraging vehicles from entering and damaging the park – then hopping a barrier and damaging the farmland.”

A neighbor voiced the opinion that there should be a building for arts and crafts and for both child and adult education. Other folks chimed in, saying they hope for collaboration between the school and the Parks Bureau to develop joint-use areas.

Wondering out loud of there could be a way for kids to “take some ownership” of the park, Argay Neighborhood Chair Valerie Curry wanted youths to feel sufficiently possessive of the park that if they were to see vandalism or illegal activities taking place there, they would report it.

“Who is going to be there to clean up the mess?” questioned Curry. “In Argay Park there is a constant cleanup of messes visitors leave in the park.”

Children were given the opportunity to have a say in the design of Beech Park. These are a few of the diagrams annotated by kids during the public input process.

Consultant addresses issues
“Our recommendations will consider the concerns of the farmers, as well as the neighbors directly surrounding the park,” McIntyre informed us after the meetings. “The best way to create a safe park is to design one that attracts many people throughout the day. It discourages people from misusing the park. We’ll look at sight-line issues as well.”

For the past few weeks, McIntyre and the staff of Portland-based MIG, Inc. – a consulting firm that specializes in park planning and design and in public involvement in design projects – have been conducting this sort of ascertainment process in the area.

“Both adults and kids have been interested in contributing to the ‘art element’ of the space,” McIntyre told us this week. “It’s not so much having separate art objects, as simply having areas artistically designed. There could be ways to incorporate children’s art and other kinds of art in that way. There may be some ways to reflect different cultures in the neighborhood.”

The next steps
Working with Portland Parks & Recreation, the consultants will develop three alternative plans.

“We’ll be working on this through the month of July,” McIntyre said. “We’ll have a booth at the Parkrose Farmer’s Market on July 26. We hope everybody comes out and takes a look at the alternatives.”

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Check out what went on at a community happening they’re now calling an outer East Portland tradition. And, we say goodbye to a great East Portland cop, Officer Hoover …

Several hundred Lents-area neighbors looked to be having a good time, while they learned about neighborhood resources, at the fourth annual Lents Resource Fair.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
It wasn’t a school day, but the cafeteria at the Marshall High Campus on SE 91st Avenue was hopping on May 10, as the Portland Development Commission (PDC) hosted its fourth annual Lents Resource Fair.

Joleen Jensen-Classen, with Juan Carlos Ocaña, stands by, ready to serve a lunch of hot burritos and chips at the Resource Fair.

Informing neighbors
“The primary purpose of the fair is to provide information to the community about a variety of services and goods available to them in Lents, and in the greater Lents area,” is how Juan-Carlos Ocaña, a public participation coordinator at PDC, set the stage.

The Lents Urban Renewal team brought 40 government and nonprofit agencies together to set up exhibits and to talk with neighbors.

Jon Gail of the PDC neighborhood housing program discussed homeowners assistance.

Folks talked with representatives from the City of Portland, TriMet, Multnomah County, Holgate Library, the Lents International Farmer’s Market, and ROSE Community Development, to name just a few.

“The fair has grown into being an annual tradition,” Ocaña said. “It started as an opportunity to showcase the diversity of services available. Many people in the Lents area are struggling in the current economic conditions. It’s a good opportunity to show them different places where they can go for support.”

Nancy Hand talks with Portland Police Bureau Neighborhood Resource Officer William Hoover.

Goodbye, Officer Hoover
After his appearances at the event year after year, neighbors expected to see Portland Police Bureau Neighborhood Resource Officer William Hoover at the event.

For those who know Office Hoover – including us – seeing him this time was a bittersweet event. “It’s true; I am leaving the Bureau, and moving south.”

We asked Hoover if he wished to comment on this, his final public meeting.

“I spent my nine years in police work in this neighborhood and this police work for a reason: I think these are good hard-working people that deserve assistance.  I’ve done my best to help the good people of this neighborhood,” Hoover told us. “I will miss the people in this area a great deal, when I leave.”

Portland Fire & Rescue’s Station 11 C-Shift attend the event, along with Lt. Michael O’Keeffe, public education Officer and fire inspector. “We’re here helping out folks in the Lents neighborhood with fire safety education, and some fun games for the kids.”

Community-building affair
Another aspect of the occasion, Ocaña told us, is community building. “It’s a great opportunity for people in the neighborhood to get together to talk to other neighbors, talk to different service organizations, and also to enjoy a tasty meal and beverage.”

From what we saw, neighbors did have a good time – and learned – as they drifted by the exhibits, and munched on burritos.

Daniel Casey said he was enjoying his burrito. Actually, his exact comment was, “Mmmmm, this is yummy!”

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

This event is truly “for the birds” – take a look and discover why …

Portland Audubon Society volunteer Virginia Ross shows off Jack, an American kestrel.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Hundreds of avian admirers once again flocked to Sellwood Park on a couple of Saturdays ago to celebrate International Migratory Bird Day at a special event.

“Three partners put on the ‘Festival of the Birds’ to bring attention to the migratory birds that pass through here,” said Karen Munday, Urban Wildlife Specialist at the Portland Audubon Society. “U.S. Fish and Wildlife, the Audubon Society, and Portland Parks and Recreation all participate in this event.”

Karen Munday, Urban Wildlife Specialist at Portland Audubon Society, coordinates the festival.

On the intercontinental ‘freeway’ for birds
It’s important to pay attention to migratory birds that pass through Portland, Munday said, “Birds migrate from the northern regions down south, along the Pacific Flyway. Because Portland is a stop along their migratory path, we need to help protect the habitat they use, right here, in our own back yard.”

Visitors to the festival were treated to guided bird walks. On these walks, they learned that 200 different bird species can be found in the greater Portland area. They saw, with the help of their guides, wild bald eagles, great blue herons, osprey, and dozens of species of waterfowl and songbirds that make their homes in Oaks Bottom.

Telling visitors about Hazel, a northern spotted owl, is Audubon’s James Mier.

Meeting feathered friends
Along Sellwood Park’s western walkway, tented stations provided bird-related crafts for kids and information for adults.

“We’re encouraging people to protect urban habitat,” explained Munday. “And, we’re asking them to help make our area more bird-friendly by doing things like planting native plants in their backyards, and keeping cats indoors.”

Youngsters Dakota and Miller Heikes, and Chloe Hemelstrand, get to experience how birds eat.

Along the way, we met Jack. His handler, Virginia Ross, an Audubon Society volunteer, said Jack is an American kestrel, the smallest of the falcon family.

On the arm of another Audubon volunteer, James Mier, we were introduced to Hazel, a northern spotted owl. “She’s about five years old. Her injured wing was damaged; she can’t fly so she’s not releasable.”

Information specialist Nancy Pollot of the US Fish and Wildlife Service helps homeowners learn about the native plants and flowers most favored by migrating birds.

Improving avian habitat
Nancy Pollot, US Fish and Wildlife service, was visiting with those who stopped at her booth, teaching about plants favored by birds.

“This plant is a red osier dogwood,” informed Pollot. “Birds and butterflies love these; and they’re native to Oregon. They grow without much maintenance, and attract wildlife. It flowers in the spring, and by the end of summer, it grows little white berries that the birds like.”

A highlight of the festival was the release a rehabilitated Red-tailed Hawk back into the wild, Munday said. “The hawk was set free after nearly three months recovering from an illegal gunshot injury.”

Coloring handbags at the festival are Annecy Crabtree, Mira Henri, and Brandt Henri.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News Service

Take a look, and discover the creativity and artistry demonstrated by these talented kids …

Friends, family members, folks from the community – and members of the DDS School Board all came by to take a look at this outstanding art show.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
The quality of artistic work on display in the breezeway at the David Douglas School District office was stunning, as we sauntered among the displays on May 15.

“Welcome to our annual student art show,” greeted Gayla Buyukas, one of seven art teachers at David Douglas High School.

“The art on display is created from all of our students, from ninth grade to seniors,” Buyukas explained. “The forms of art range from painting and drawing to ceramics, jewelry and metals, calligraphy, crafts, glasswork.

David Douglas High art teacher Gayla Buyukas shows us a decorated brass box, created by student Celeste Hunter as part of the “Heroes Project”.

Heroes Project highlighted
Buyukas took us over to a locked glass case in which very small, delicate pieces – such as jewelry and memory boxes – were ensconced. “This case contains some of the works of art students created for what we call the ‘Heroes Project’.”

Students were asked to identify people – either folks they know, or personalities in popular culture – who are important to them, she said. “It could also be a philosophical concept in which they believe. Then, they design and create symbolic piece that represents that person or idea.”

As an example, Buyukas pointed out a small, elegant brass box. “This work was done by a junior, and near-4.0 student – Celeste Hunter. It represents her family; each side depicts one of her relatives who symbolize the story of her African-American tradition.”

Students tell about their works
Many of the works of art we saw in the gallery looked as if they were painted by professional artists. We enjoyed talking to several of the student artists about their projects.

Freshman Ricky Adams, with his portrait of actor McCauley Calkins.

A freshman, Ricky Adams, presented a pencil drawing of child actor McCauley Calkins. The photorealistic drawing clearly captured the image of the youthful actor starring in the “Home Alone” series of motion pictures. “It’s fun to learn about art,” Adams said. “I’m glad to have my drawing in the show.”

Lupe Diaz, 9th Grade, shows off her treasure boxes.

Another ninth grader, Lupe Diaz, showed us her “treasure boxes”, made for an art class. “I picked up colors that I liked and put them all together, and made patterns,” she commented.

This portrait of Snoop Dogg was drawn – in pencil – by junior Juan Diaz.

Juan Diaz, a DDHS junior, presented his drawing of rap artist Snoop Dogg. “It’s a drawing in pencil. The challenging thing is to get the dark and light shading contrast just right when you’re doing a pencil illustration.” Diaz added that he planned to pursue a career in art.

Bruce Ross, a senior, says he enjoys creating art in different media.

“The best thing about the show is that it means I’m about to graduate,” quipped a senior, Bruce Ross. “I’m known for my calligraphy; I won a blue ribbon for a work at last year’s Oregon State Fair. With calligraphy, you can express a concept by using both words and artistic style.”

But the work Ross chose to show us was a ceramic dish. “With ceramics, you can create a lot of texture.” The talented young man said he planned to attend the Art Institute of Portland, and go into art direction and graphic design as a career.

The artists who designed and created theses fused glass artworks weren’t around, but they did produce some beautiful pieces.

Showcasing school’s talent
The show was substantial; the works of nearly 800 students are represented in it.

“It’s one of the rare times when students can actually showcase their pieces before the school and their family and members of the community,” commented Buyukas. “In addition to students, parents, and community members, our school district’s board members also get the opportunity to look at what our kids have done during the year.”

We were delighted to have had the opportunity to be among those enjoying these works of art, created by outer East Portland students.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News Service

This annual service captures the spirit of this holiday weekend. Take a look and remember why call this holiday Memorial Day …

To start the service, the color guard from Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 418 performs a flag ceremony.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
By modern-day standards, the event being held by Oregon Baptist Retirement Homes – just off NE Weidler St., in the Gateway District – might be considered to be quaint or nostalgic.

To those of us who attend today, May 23, it is a good reminder, as the Memorial Day holiday weekend gets underway.

When graced by moderate weather, they hold the entire service outside, near the flagpole. The service starts of with the Honor Guard from Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 418 performing a flag ceremony. The “post the colors”, run the flag to half-mast as a bugler plays Taps, and run the flag up to the top of the pole once again.

Inverness Jail Chaplain Ted Wolcheck presents a Memorial Day message at Oregon Baptist Retirement Homes.

Due to the rain, the group retires to a meeting hall and listens as former military chaplain, Ted Wolcheck, and currently chaplain at Inverness Jail, delivers this heart-felt message:

“The first job I had when I arrived in Vietnam, so many years ago, was when 70 troopers from the [unit called the] Big Red One were ambushed and died. There was a big circle with the rifles with bayonets and boots in helmets of those who were killed. The thought that came to me was from Psalms 1:39:

‘Oh Lord you searched me and know me. You know what I said and when I rise. You perceive my thoughts from afar.’

“I think David, the Psalmist gives us an idea that we are thinking people, and appreciative people. We value life; we value service — yesterday and today.

“Today, we’ve stopped to recall what others have done for us. From the time of World War I, we have been involved in bringing hope to people who’ve been really brutalized and overrun by evil regimes. A society that is unable to accept this responsibility – to people who are suffering – is a cruel and inhuman society. This we are not.

“When America decides to help people in Europe, Korea, Vietnam, Panama, Iraq or Afghanistan – it seems that public opinion sways us to selfish conclusions: that we must withdraw. But, even if our efforts only bring a glimpse of hope to the oppressed, we have acted in the spirit of our forefathers.

“The veterans, who have brought hope to others, will never be forgotten.

“When I first visited Normandy and walked through the American Cemetery there, I was overwhelmed, with pride, for America. Sometimes we fail to remember just what these special people have done for us.

“I’m the chaplain at Inverness Jail. [As I say this] I am admitting that I am politically correct: Often, I reflect on just how sad it is for America to lose so many young men [in jail] to crime, drugs and other bad things. I believe if the draft were reinstated, many of these delinquents would’ve had a least two years of discipline to grow up as serve our great country.

Chaplain Wolcheck tells the gathering why he’s proud to be an American who is proud to have served his country in the Armed Forces.

“Every generation of Americans has to make their contribution to a greater America; and, to keep the flame of hope burning in our hearts. We are Americans, under God, who has blessed us with super abundance. The capacity to suffer for the sake of others is the measure of humanity.

“The true stars of our country are not in Hollywood. They are individuals who are serving their beloved country in the armed forces. For those who care for those who can’t win their own freedom, or take care of themselves, our history says we do so.

“I believe we need a new spelling of the word America. It is H-O-P-E.

“I salute all who gave their best to keep us free. God bless America.

Armed Forces veterans stand and are recognized for their contribution to freedom at the service.

After he concluded his talk, the chaplain asked all those who served in military service stand and be recognized. They were greeted with applause.

We wish you, our reader, a pleasant Memorial Day weekend.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

If you didn’t get out to this amusing annual event, take a look at our photo album, as we recap their community funfest …

Here comes the parade! For nearly a full hour, neighbors enjoyed a color procession of bands, walking groups, and community floats.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
The 13th annual Gateway Fun-O-Rama, put on by the Gateway Area Business Association (GABA), played out under summerlike skies on May 16 and 17.

It started with a golf tournament at the Glendoveer Golf Course, and continued the next day with a parade down NE Halsey Street, followed by the Community Fair at 111th Square.

Judges and announcers for this year’s parade are: (back row) Annette Mattson, David Douglas School Board, Dr. Karen Fischer Gray, Superintendent, Parkrose School District; (front row); Becka Doyle, David Douglas High, Stacy Chao, David Douglas High, Tammy Vu, Parkrose High and Jacob Nall, St. Therese School.

Fun-O-Rama Parade
For years, the Fun-O-Rama Parade always seemed to take place under clouds threatening rain.

But on May 17, the sky was clear and the sun was hot, as the parade formed on the expansive grounds of St. Therese Parish grounds at NE 132nd Avenue. The procession then  headed west along NE Halsey Street, and disbanded at NE 105th Avenue.

This year’s parade featured the lively sounds and precision footwork of five marching bands – the most ever, in the parade’s history. The bands and drill teams from Parkrose High School, Parkrose Middle School, Ron Russell Middle School, Centennial High School, and Floyd Light Middle School performed well, to the delight of the crowd all along the route.

The 2008 Portland Rose Festival Princesses, and other dignitaries, rode in convertibles, and greeted the crowds along the route.

Other parade entries included those from businesses, faith groups, and service organizations – including the Al Kader Shiners’ Calliope and motorcade. Also marching was the fun-but-rowdy Parkrose Posse – and the bystanders enjoyed the antics of the crazy Gateway Keystone Kops. Many participants threw candy to watching kids as they went by.

Seems like all kids like stickers – especially when it’s an honorary badge, given by a kindly Portland cop.

Community Fair follows parade
After the Fun-o-Rama Parade, the crowd along the parade route followed the sound of calliope to the Community Fair at 111th Square. Kicking off the fair was the Portland Police Bureau Honor Guard, as they raised a huge American flag at noon.

Then, visitors perused 40 booths set up for individuals, companies, nonprofit organizations, and civic groups – as the band, “Vine Time”, played and sang a wide variety of original and popular songs.

Once again this year, the Portland Police Bureau East Precinct Cadets were fundraising by serving hot, huge “Cadet Dog” wieners – as other Cadets fitted kids with low-cost bike helmets.

The Portland Rose Festival Princesses pitched their upcoming festival, and Ronald McDonald entertained the kids.

Alan Sanchez presented the Gateway Citizen of the Year memento to David Douglas School District superintendent, Barbara Rommel.

Citizen of the Year
The Gateway “Citizen of the Year” – Superintendent Barbara Rommel, of the David Douglas School District – was honored with a plaque.

After receiving the award, Rommel told us, “I feel honored to be chosen; this organization does so much to benefit the community.”

Our Fun-O-Rama Photo Album

The Al Kader Calliope and honor guard entertain with music and performance motorcycle drill team riding.

“Will you applaud if I do a cartwheel?” asked Jefferson Smith, a candidate for state legislature. He did – and the crowd went wild with applause.

Saturday night fun; and, law and order – Parkrose Posse style!

The Floyd Light Middle School Band and Drill Team was one of five great marching bands that played in the parade.

Those crazy Gateway Keystone Kops hammed it up along the parade route.

Raising the 25′ American flag were members of the Portland Police Bureau and Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office Honor Guard.

Michelle Frazier, a Portland Police Bureau Cadet, served hot dogs.

Lents neighborhood volunteer Judy Welch was greeted by Mayor-elect Sam Adams at the Community Fair.

Jessie Holwege looked on as her son, Hayden, got fitted with a bike helmet by Portland Police Bureau Cadet Jordan Houck.

Richard Bixby with the East Portland Neighborhood Organization gave out resource literature at their booth.

Vine Time Band from Parkrose United Methodist played a variety of original and positive music.

The blazing sun that drove temperatures to record levels also thinned the crowd – but many folks stayed the afternoon in the shade of exhibitor’s canopies.

Meet the members
If you’re interested in finding out more about GABA, they meet next on June 12 at JJ North’s Buffet, 10520 NE Halsey Street. Their web site: www.gabanet.com.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

See how this food festival helps unite the DDHS student body – and raise funds for student organizations – at the same time …