Come out and see what they’ve done – even better, decorate a rock to make your mark on this unique Parkrose attraction, located at the high school …

Sharon DeWitt, groundskeeper at Parkrose High School, watches as students help prepare the path and lay pavers.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
To some, a labyrinth is a large-scale puzzle game. But to Sharon DeWitt, Parkrose High School’s groundskeeper, the “Parkrose Community Peace Labyrinth” which she inspired is much more.

“In our busy world,” explains DeWitt, “everyone is on-the-run, especially students and staff members here at the high school. In the 15 minutes it takes to slowly walk the labyrinth, people can slow down and take some time for themselves.”

This specific design used is a replica of the World Peace Labyrinth, DeWitt tells us. “That labyrinth was painted on canvas, and unveiled at the Olympic Games, in Salt Lake City, in 2002. All of the athletes, coaches, and fans had the opportunity to walk the labyrinth. Now that labyrinth is traveling the world to all the countries that part in the Olympics.”

A few weeks ago, students helped out placing the pavers along the labyrinth’s path.

Celebrating one year on April 19
They started building this labyrinth on Earth Day, in April, 2007 says DeWitt. “We’re taking an unused portion of the high school property and making something that will invite neighbors onto our grounds. We’re giving the community something simple to enjoy.”

Since then, through the work of about 200 of volunteers, plus thousands of hours of labor, the serpentine path is clearly taking shape.

“We’ll be celebrating the labyrinth’s first year starting at 10 a.m. on Saturday, April 19,” DeWitt informs us. “It’s not a work party; it is a rock painting party. We’re asking everyone to come by and decorate at least one of the hundreds of rocks we pick-axed out of the ground, using paint Metro has donated. These rocks will decorate the path.”

DeWitt adds, “I hope that, by decorating a rock, neighbors, friends, and students will gain a sense of ownership and connectedness with the project, with the school, and with the labyrinth.”

About 200 volunteers have worked on the project during the last year. Come see what they’re up to!

New gate marks the spot
When you visit – it’s located at the southwest corner of the lot on NE Shaver Street, a long block west of NE 122nd Avenue, you’ll be welcomed by a new gate marking the entrance to the labyrinth.

DeWitt thanks East Portland Neighbors, Inc. for the grant that provided the seed money to start the project. “This grant legitimized and validated project and got it going. It helped us secure a grant from Lowe’s Toolbox for Education.”

To volunteer, or for more information, e-mail sharondewitt@parkrose.k12.or.us.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Learn more about the all-new festival slated for August – and, why a faith group turned a drug-infested, crime-ridden flophouse into luxury accommodations – in this article …

Gail Bash holds the prototype of a new “street banner” that will adorn utility poles along NE Sandy Blvd. proclaiming the expanded Parkrose Festival & Cruise-in scheduled for August 2.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Taking a “field trip” away from their usual meeting place, Steamers Restaurant, members of the Parkrose Business Association (PBA) held their March meeting a few blocks east, at the Quality Inn & Suites. Here are some of the highlights:

Estelle Fuller of Bob Brown Tires, and Denise Smoke of Bank of America, sample the delicious food provided by Quality Inn & Suites.

Old Cruise-in cancelled; new event announced
After dealing with a recent string of soggy June Saturdays the Portland Rose Festival Parkrose Cruise-in, the steering committee for the event has announced its demise.

But, in its place, they’re producing an entirely new event – in a new location – and, in a much more weather-friendly month: August.

“It is like we’re staring over,” said Michael Taylor, educational director of the newly-formed ACE Academy, and President of the PBA. “This change brings new challenges and opportunities. We’ll be bringing in new businesses to participate this summertime event.”

Taylor said the new event, called the Parkrose Festival & Cruise-in, is scheduled for Saturday, August 2. Instead of being on the Parkrose High School grounds, it will take place in “downtown” Parkrose on NE Sandy Boulevard – a state highway.

Festival on the boulevard
“Working in cooperation with Oregon Department of Transportation, and the Portland Police Bureau,” explained Taylor, “we’ll be shutting down half of NE Sandy Boulevard between NE 105th Avenue and NE 112th Avenue for the day, and into the evening.”

The event will start with the traditional pancake breakfast; vendors will be on hand to provide food at lunchtime, and “perhaps a beer garden and music festival in the evening, all in cooperation with local restaurants. All day long, there will be family events, in addition to a great cruise-in.”

The idea, Taylor said, is to pull traffic into the downtown Parkrose area without shutting down the street. “This is a great opportunity to showcase our business center here in Parkrose, and enrich an event that has been very successful.”

Pastor, and manager of Quality Inn Suites and Rodeway Inn, David Walmer, tells why they transformed the rundown hotel they now own.

From flophouse to first class hotel
Hosting the meeting was Quality Inn Suites and Rodeway Inn on NE Sandy Boulevard, located almost directly over the I-205 freeway.

This lodging is unusual, members learned from its manager, David Walmer –  because it is now owned by a church.

“When the Eastside Foursquare Church took over the property,” Walmer began, “the police called the hotels (they’re co-located on the same piece of land) the biggest crack house in Portland. The cops joked that they’d let us know which rooms they were busting so we could rent them out again that evening.”

During the two-year, $7.7 Million renovation, starting in June 2004, their business dropped by half, revealed Walmer. “We turned away the hotel’s former ‘cash-paying, no-ID, no-tell’ customers. But, we kept working at it, and transformed one of the community’s largest ‘problem properties’ into a first-class lodging. Our business is growing by at least 30% per year.”

Church means business
“Many faith groups and churches want to help their community,” Walmer went on, “but because they’re small, they lack the resources to do so.

Walmer says that, instead of “begging for money”, faith groups should find practical ways to fund their missions through running legitimate businesses.

“Most churches complain they need more money. But, most churches are notoriously bad at business. They want to challenge societal problems like prostitution and homelessness, but don’t have the money. Businesses know how to make money. They can teach the churches how to make money – instead of begging for it. The self-funding model allows a church to make a substantial difference in their community.”

Walmer summarized, “We’ve looked to government to solve problems. But government can’t drive the agenda. Churches can’t do it alone, they don’t have the resources. But a partnership of government, business, and faith community can transform an area.”

In closing, Walmer expressed his concern about the still-vacant former Parkrose Glass building – almost directly across the street from their facility. “The owner has been actively marketing it to the ‘adult’ [sex] industry. While perfectly legal, we’d prefer to have a business or community project in the building across the street. We don’t need another strip club here.”

Denise Smoke tells why she loves working for Bank of America, during her PBA Member Moment.

Member Moment features Smoke
The featured PBA member this month was the Parkrose branch of Bank of America – represented cheerfully by Denise Smoke.

“14 years ago, I joined the bank, worked hard and eventually became assistant manager,” Smoke stated. “This bank has given me what I need for my family and my career. And we have great services for our customers, including a mortgage product.”

She applauded the bank’s willingness to let her volunteer at her daughter’s school and help out with community projects. “Check out our banking products. I’m so proud to be part of the bank, and part of the PBA.”

PBA’s “new” president, Michael Taylor (standing), gives outgoing exec, Jon Turino, (seated, right side of photo next to past PBA president Mark Eves) some good-nature ribbing about his two-month stint.

President’s farewell
PBA’s “new” president, Michael Taylor, thanked Jon Turino – he was president for two months before being drafted to be the Executive Director of the Alliance of Portland Area Business Associations (APNBA) – and thanked Turino for his support of the organization.

Meet the PBA members
You’ll always find smiling faces greeting you at the Parkrose Business Association. While they take their commitment to their community – they sponsor thousands of dollars in scholarships each year – they love having fun.

Come on by on Thursday, April 17 and meet this group of fun, energized business people. You’ll get the best business lunch at town at Steamers Restaurant & Lounge, 8303 NE Sandy Blvd. (east of NE 82nd Ave.); reservations are NOT required. For more information, see their newly-updated web site by CLICKING HERE.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Discover why you should pull up a chair for this fun, free event that celebrates one of Portland’s most well-known highways …

Again this year, Dragon and Lion Dancers will entertain and enchant people along the parade route.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
The first annual 82nd Avenue of Roses Parade was a success, by every measure. Since then, the volunteers who put on this event have been working diligently to prepare for this year’s street pageant – next week, on April 19.

Seeing a parade marching along this storied highway took many by surprise last year. With more publicity, and greater participation from neighborhood and business groups, this parade this year should be a fun event for everyone.

A year in the making
Plans are underway for an even more colorful and exciting event for 2008, according to its organizer, and long-time East Portland booster, Ken Turner.

“We’re looking forward to a great event,” Turner predicted when we caught up with him at a meeting of the organizing volunteers. “It looks like we’ll have 40 entries, including floats, and walking entries from neighborhood and business associations, service organizations, car clubs, and farmers markets.”

Unlike a neighborhood parade, Turner said this event required a great deal of advance planning. “One reason is that we’re shutting down a State Highway for two hours. But, Oregon Department of Transportation, the Portland Office of Transportation, Portland Police Bureau, and other agencies have helped and supported our efforts.”

The Madison South, Brentwood Darlington, and Powellhurst-Gilbert neighborhood Associations, along with the 82nd Avenue of Roses Business Association, are providing the volunteers to produce this neighborhood spectacle.

Members of the Madison High School Drum Corps will keep the parade stepping along at a lively pace.

More music, more fun
This year, the parade will feature the antics of the “Get-a-Life Marching Band”. This group of marching musicians is an offshoot of the “One More Time Around Again Marching Band”, famous for their annual Portland Rose Festival appearances. After the parade, about 11 a.m., the band will proceed to Eastport Plaza for a free concert.

You’ll see the USS Enterprise cruise down 82nd Avenue of Roses, courtesy of the US Navy . . . Be delighted by the color and pageantry of the Chinese Dragon and Lion Dancers . . . Tap your toes to the syncopated rhythms of Madison High School Drum Corps . . . Be greeted by the Royal Rosarians . . . And, see honor paid to our flag and servicemen and women by the color guard from Veterans of Foreign Wars #1.

“And there’s a good chance you’ll see some of Portland’s and Multnomah County’s leading politicians and candidates in the parade,” Turner hinted.

Starts at 9 am
The April 19 parade steps out onto SE 82nd Avenue of Roses from Eastport Plaza at 9:00 a.m. sharp. The parade will proceed north to SE Yamhill Street, and into the Montavilla Neighborhood.

Volunteers are needed
Many volunteers are needed on the day of the parade. “There isn’t heavy lifting involved,” said volunteer coordinator, Johnni Beth Jones. “And, the time commitment is small. We need adults willing to be ‘street closure guards’ on the morning of the parade.”

Contact Jones at johnni.jones@gmail.com; she asks that you list “Parade Volunteer” in the subject line of your e-mail, so she’ll spot it right away.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News Service

Business and unions weren’t satisfied with the office; see who’s donated what to make this “cop shop” an attractive addition to the neighborhood …

Portland Police Bureau East Precinct Commander Michael Crebs tells Sergeant John Anderson, “This is looking really good.”

Story and photo by David F. Ashton
The first step to getting a Portland Police Bureau East Precinct substation in the Parkrose district was finding the location. The Rossi family helped out by giving the cops a favorable lease ($1 per year) on an office on NE Sandy Blvd.

While the interior of the office was adequate, area companies and volunteers wanted this substation to be a showplace.

Business and unions pitch in
Sergeant John Anderson has been guiding the project. He said that Parkrose Hardware has helped out a great deal in refinishing the police substation.  “They’ve donated the paint, lighting fixtures, locks, and exterior lighting, and the store manager has helped us take out the old fixtures and install the new lights.”

Western Pacific Lumber donated the wood trim and wainscoting borders for the office walls. Volunteers from the Painters Union, Local No. 10 – their union hall is just across the street – gave the office a professional paint job. “And, and inmate work crews from Multnomah County Jail will come out and help us by pressure-washing the outside of the building,” Anderson said.

Police presence in Parkrose
“The citizens want to have a police bureau close by,” said Portland Police Bureau East Precinct Commander Michael Crebs, as he checked the progress of the substation. “People will be able to get crime prevention information, crime statistics, and ask a question or put in a request for an officer here.”

The office will open in a few weeks, we’re told. This summer, officers plan on holding an open house to officially inaugurate the new facility.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Visual stimuli abounded at this year’s SE Area ARTwalk! Come along; we’ll introduce you to some of the colorful artists we met …

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
There’s been a virtual explosion of talented artists – working in widely divergent media – in inner SE Portland within the last decade.

In 2002, artist Rin Carroll Jackson created the Southeast Area ARTWalk – now an annual event – to help artists connect with one another. The idea caught on, and now this first-of-March exhibition showcases the work of many area artists for patrons and regular folks who enjoy the creative stimuli of meeting the creative artisans.

This year’s Southeast Area ARTwalk included exhibits and demonstrations of 80 artists. The public participated by obtaining a free map, and embarking on a self-guided tour of the artists’ creative spaces, or their homes and businesses in the area.

If you didn’t take the tour this year, we’ll introduce you to some of the artwork we viewed on our tour and share notes from journal about the artists:

Amid the hustle and bustle of this popular coffee shop, stained glass artist Donald Leedy exhibits his colorful, reflective works.

Artist: Donald Leedy
Location: K&F Coffee, SE 26th Ave
Medium: Stained Glass
Contact: www.brokenglass12.com

“I love working with stained glass,” said Richard Leedy, “because I enjoy working in three dimensions. I recover both art and industrial glass to use in my projects.”

“I’ve always had affection for stained glass windows of all kinds,” explained Leedy. “There’s always been stained glass in my house. One day I picked up the tools and started creating it; and it’s worked out pretty well. Portland is a great place to be doing this work; people here are very receptive.”

After 12 years of experience, Leedy said he gets commissions for both fine art and for industrial stained glass works.

The multitalented Bonita Davis shows her oil on canvas paintings, hand-woven goods, and unique cards.

Artist: Bonita Davis
Location: K&F Coffee, SE 26th Ave.
Media: Oil on canvas; knitted handbags
Contact: www.bonitadavis.com

At the same bustling coffee shop, we also met Bonita Davis, an artist who creates stunning paintings that catch the eye.

“I’ve been involved with painting the longest,” relates Davis. “Oil painting on canvas is my passion; I’ve been pursuing it continuously for the past 15 years.”

Although Davis works full time providing rehabilitation services, she’s also learning how to create in a new medium – knit art. “Knitting is a relatively new skill for me. I really enjoy it, and it’s portable,” she said as she continued knitting a new purse. “The main attraction for me is the wide variety of beautiful yarns that are available.”

Richard Fung makes gallery-quality images using cameras that cost him from only $1.50 to thousands of dollars.

Artist: Richard Fung
Location: Bara Sushi House, SE 21st Ave.
Medium: Photography
Contact: www.richardfung.com

Moving westward, we were met by photographer Richard Fung in this home-turned-Sushi-bar.

“My medium is all types of photography,” said Richard Fung as he exposed his passion for taking pictures. “I work with all photographic media – including color, black and white, digital, and film. I’m photographically eclectic.”

For fine art photography, Fung said he likes to use a plastic camera from the ’50s trademarked the “Diana”. “These originally sold for $1.50, but the cameras now sell on E-Bay for $150. I like it because it produces kind of an ethereal effect; ‘Diana’ photos almost look like paintings.”

From portraits to urban settings and landscapes, Fung said photography has been a passion for him since he was five years old. “While I do commissioned photography, and sell my work at galleries, photography is an avocation. I’m also a recruiter for the City of Gresham Police Bureau.”

Painting as she talks, Penelope Culbertson says she loves expressing herself through art.

Artist: Penelope Culbertson
Location: Clinton Corner Café, SE 21st Ave.
Media: Watercolors and collage
Contact: culbertfam@aol.com

In addition to viewing her displayed artwork, we enjoyed watching Penelope Culbertson as she painted.

“I’ve been working with watercolors for about 25 years,” explained Culbertson. “I learned to paint in the tropics, in Hawaii – an area very well suited for the bright, fluid nature of watercolors.”

In addition to producing artwork and calligraphy, she’s also a teacher, offering both private classes and at a studio on SE 42nd Avenue.

“The best thing about painting is that I get to express myself,” Culbertson said colorfully. “My art allows me to exploit what I see, so I can share it with others.”

There wasn’t a good way photographically to capture Joel Barber’s perspective mural of the Roseland Theater; but all of his paintings – like this jolly bear – are colorful and imaginative as this one.

Artist: Joel Barber
Location: Cadenza Academy, SE 21st Ave.
Media: Painting and collage
Contact: www.joelbarber.com

A man known for his abstract figurative and surreal pop paintings, Joel Barber had stepped out for a moment when we visited. We admired his works on display.

The realistic perspective of a full-wall mural in one room almost caused us to lose our balance. The forced perspective of Barber’s painting made it appear as if we’d stepped on stage at the Roseland Theater – magically turning a short, wide room into a captious music hall.

Barber soon arrived. He said he’d been painting – and selling his work – since childhood; but professionally, for 25 years.

“My mom just sent me a series of pastels I painted as a child,” Barber related. “I was trying to sell plain rocks to our neighbors, without success. She suggested I do paintings and sell them. She and my grandmother purchased them all.”

Although Barber said he didn’t remember much about those paintings, he was surprised to see the “canvas” was painted edge-to-edge, and each painting bore a price tag, as in a gallery.

Barber calls art his “full-time job”, but admits, “I punch a clock three days a week. It helps the bills get paid on time. Working at Columbia Art Supply is great; instead of just ringing up sales, I get to share my knowledge, and teach.”

According to the artists with whom we spoke, this year’s ARTwalk was the best ever, in terms of the number of visitors and their level of interest. Look for this event again on the first weekend in March, 2009.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Police are baffled regarding the disappearance of a 32-year-old outer East Portland woman. Give them a solid lead, and you could get $1,000 from Crime Stoppers …

32-year-old Heather Dawn Mallory, seen here in her “chef whites” was taking classes at Oregon Culinary Institute downtown before she vanished without a trace on March 8.

Story by David F. Ashton
CRIME STOPPERS case #08-13 reads like a fictional detective story we’d see on TV – but it is not. This case is very real.

Police are so concerned about locating 32-year-old Heather Dawn Mallory, they’ve assigned it to their Missing Persons Unit and have Crime Stoppers has issued a $1,000 reward for information.

On Friday, March 7, 2008, Mallory attended classes at Oregon Culinary Institute and worked the entire shift at her job, says Portland Police Bureau’s Detective Tim Sukimoto.

After work, she spent the night socializing with several friends and arrived at her Powellhurst-Gilbert neighborhood home, about a half a block from Raymond Park about 10:30 am, Saturday, March 8.

Police ask you to be on the lookout for Mallory’s car – a bright red 2001 Ford Focus with Oregon plates 061BZX.

Disappears after a domestic dispute
After Mallory arrived home, she became involved in an argument with her husband, 35-year-old Brian Cole. She reportedly left home awhile later and has not been seen or heard from since.

Mallory reportedly left in a bright red 2001 Ford Focus bearing Oregon license 061BZX. There is a black-colored bike rack on top of the car and a child seat in the back seat.

Mallory is the mother of a 3-year-old child and has no prior history of being missing.

Described as a normal person
Based on information obtained from family and friends, investigators believe it is highly unusual for Heather to remain out of contact. She has been described as professional and responsible in her work habits. Mallory has no known history of mental illness or medical issues.

Investigators have confirmed that there has been no electronic activity on any of her accounts. At this time, detectives have no evidence of foul play.  However, Heather’s sudden disappearance and lack of any contact to family or friends, whatsoever, is considered highly suspicious.

Have you seen this woman? If you have, please call police, or CRIME STOPPERS immediately and help crack this case.

Mallory is a 5’5″, 120-pound white female with blonde hair and brown eyes.

CRIME STOPPERS is offering a cash reward of up to $1,000 for information, reported to Crime Stoppers, that leads to a resolution in this case, and you remain anonymous.

Call CRIME STOPPERS at (503) 823-HELP (4357). To speak directly with the investigator, call Detective Tim Sukimoto at (503) 823-0462.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News Service

Just in time for Easter, see (in LOTS of photos) how two SE Portland neighborhood groups bring their communities together with traditional Easter Egg Hunts …

Kaitlin and Jack Nelson get a real “two carrot” treat from the Easter Bunny at Westmoreland’s Easter Egg Hunt.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
There’s no better sign that springtime has arrived than seeing hundreds of kids in two neighborhoods running – baskets in hand – at the start of annual Easter Egg hunts on March 22.

Waiting as patiently as possible, families wait for the “tiny tots” section to be opened for the big Sellwood-Westmoreland hunt.

Sellwood-Westmoreland’s Easter Egg Hunt
It was promoted as “come rain-or-shine”, and the brilliant sunshine drew hundreds of families to this annual event.

The event was free, but many folks brought canned goods for the FISH Food Bank, some gave cash donations.

In minutes, hundreds of kids get about the business of gathering their eggs.

Phoebe Diamond has great success finding chocolate eggs.

“We love helping SMILE put on this event,” said Edwina Swart, President of Oaks Bottom Lions Club. “It’s just great; the kids are having lots of fun.”

At 10 a.m. sharp, the ribbons cordoning off areas in the southern part of Westmoreland Park were lifted and the kids took off on their hunt. Actually, the colorfully foil-wrapped milk-chocolate were plentiful – making the kids’ mission more “gathering” than “searching”.

Leasa Wiebke appears to enjoy the Westmoreland Easter Egg Hunt as much as her daughter, Julia!

Because three football field-sized areas were swept clean of candies in minutes, the organizers made sure no one went home empty handed. They thoughtfully withheld a small bucket of treats for those too timid to grab their share.

10th Annual Woodstock Easter Egg Hunt

Some of the more than 200 kids at Woodstock Park await the start of their Easter Egg Hunt for some 1,700 candy-and-prize filled plastic eggs.

We had just enough time to head east to this event, now in its tenth year.

Set more as a “hunt”, families and kids gathered in the central portion of Woodstock Park. Tom Vice counted down the minutes, and at precisely 10:30 a.m., kids fanned out in three searching areas, each assigned to an age group.

“Ready, set go!” says Tom Vice. The kids didn’t need to be egged on.

Gale and Michael Budde tag along as Jill sets off to find her eggs.

At their event, the kids searched for plastic eggs containing candy, a toy, or a coupon good for a larger toy or sheet of stickers. See how many folks had come out on the sunny morning, organizers asked that each kid take only five eggs – most everyone complied and shared – so all were satisfied.

The “man with the megaphone”, Tom Vice, said the event was hosted by the Woodstock Business Association, and sponsored by Safeway, BiMart, The UPS Store, Papa Murphy’s, Hollywood Video, and Life House Church.

With a little help from mom and dad, Amy and Jeff Loney, Lucy quickly collected her Easter eggs.

“We prepared 1,700 Easter Eggs,” Vice recounted. “They were all gathered in about seven minutes. It’s incredible to see the great energy here. We easily have over 200 children participating.”

Jill Budde is exploring the contents of her newly-found Easter eggs as her parents, Gail and Michael look on.

Darren Almli and his little bunny-girl Shayla wait to redeem their tickets for prizes.

While their event features candy and prizes, Vice said, “The important thing is this event brings families, who live in the Woodstock area, together. We’re focusing on finding ways to help build community, and the best way is events like this that brings people together. Look around! So many people are here having a great time!”

Elise Nettle getting her treats directly from the Woodstock Easter Bunny.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News Service

Take a look and see how this inner SE Portland dance school is training young people who will be competing in the upcoming International Irish Step Dancing competition …

Four An Daire Academy students show off their Irish Step Dancing skill – which may take them to the international competition.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Behind the An Daire Academy of Irish Dance, hidden away in an industrial area of inner SE Portland, is a story of passion, romance, dedication – and Irish Step Dancing.

The international show theatrical production “Riverdance” popularized traditional Irish Step Dancing, in which dancers take rapid and sometimes acrobatic steps, while their torsos and arms remain motionless.

But the proprietors of this unique Portland-based dance school, Jim Mueller and Lauren Crowe-Mueller, started perfecting their dancing technique long before Riverdance-styled shows became all the rage.

Owners of the dance academy, Jim Mueller and Lauren Crowe-Mueller, tell how the love of Irish dance brought them together both in love and in business at an East Portland Chamber of Commerce networking event.

Portland natives, but strangers
Both members of this husband-and-wife team grew up in Portland and attended rival high schools – but in those days, they never met.

At an East Portland Chamber of Commerce function in March, Jim told the group he learned his first Irish steps as a postgraduate hobby, took to dancing, and started instructing.

A 1988 Portland Rose Festival Princess, Lauren studied nursing and musical theater, before moving to Nashville, Tennessee, where she took up Irish dance. She progressed, finally dancing with The Chieftains, and performing at renaissance festivals throughout the United States.

“We met in a class taught by Tony Comerford in Seattle,” Lauren said; “We became engaged at his Feile na Nollaig (Irish dance event) in December of 1999, and were married in our hard [dance] shoes in May of 2000.”

Jim added, “Thanks to the Comerford School, we became successful open champions, competing at the North American, All-Ireland, and World Championships, in both solos and teams.”

Opens studio in Portland
Under Comerford’s direction, the Muellers opened a dance studio in Portland in 2000.

“In 2005, Tony said we were ready to, and able to, operate our own school; and, with his blessing, in 2005 we opened the An Daire Academy of Irish Dance,” explained Lauren.

She informed us that instructors must be certified in Irish dance if their students are to compete. “The examination process was difficult, but we were both certified before we opened our school.”

Wee dancers Kate, Emilie, and Kendal admirably perform a “Three-hand Reel”.

Armless dancing explained
“Why don’t you use their arms when you dance?” is the question they’re most frequently asked, Jim said.

“It started with the church movement in Ireland,” he related. “When St. Patrick brought Christianity to Ireland, the church was very tied into the state. As the British came into the Emerald Isle, their magistrates tried to suppress the Irish; getting them to submit to their will.”

Because the Irish are such a celebratory people, he continued, they tried to break their spirit by decreeing that dancing was an offence to God. “The Irish learned to dance with her hands at their sides. So, if a church magistrate walked past the window, appeared as if they were listening to music and having a good time.”

It wasn’t long until competitions arose to see who could dance the best steps – with their arms at their sides.

These fast-stepping An Daire dancers demonstrate the speed, precision, and skill required to enter and win Irish Step Dancing competitions.

Workout on the dance floor
It’s only been within the last decade that the Irish dance form has come on par with jazz and ballet, Jim mentioned. “Irish dance technique is very young. Over in Ireland, it’s still ‘Shut up, put your shoes on, and dance’.”

Lauren explained that they realized, early on, that poor technique will limit the life of a dancer, due to injuries. “We want to help dancers enjoy a lifetime of dance, without injury. So, we’ve created special warm-up exercises and strength training, based on the ballet and jazz. It’s a great workout.”

This top ranked Irish Step Dancer, Allie Lewis, traveled to Ireland in March, to enter in the 2008 dance competition.

Dancing for fun, and prizes
“This year has been especially wonderful,” Lauren beamed, “because not only do we have dancers going for solo competitions, we also have three teams of dancers going to the 2008 international competition in Ireland.”

Jim added, “We’ve got our fingers crossed; we’re hoping we can get a team on the [winners] podium in Belfast.”

Wide variety of skills taught
Visiting their studio, we learned they also teach Highland dance, and offer music lessons on Celtic and medieval eclectic instruments as well.

“We do a lot of fun things here at the studio,” Lauren concluded. “All told, we have just shy of 300 dancers throughout the Northwest. If you know anyone who wants this type of musical education, please tell them about us.”

This dance troupe appeared more than a dozen times at various St. Patrick Day observances around the greater Portland area this year.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News Service

Meet these schools’ ambassadors to the 2008 Portland Rose Festival. Will one of these ladies become the Portland Rose Festival Queen? Take a look …

Standing with her court, Brenda Estela Olmos has just learned she will represent David Douglas High School at the 2008 Portland Rose Festival.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton

David Douglas High Princess
It is always an invigorating experience to visit “full-school assembly” at David Douglas High School. The student body is well behaved; but when it’s time to cheer, the nearly 3,000 students nearly lift the roof of the gymnasium.

Last week, when we visited the assembly at which the David Douglas High 2008 Portland Rose Festival Princess was announced – it was an occasion to cheer.

Almost overtaken by emotion, Olmos does her best to smile, as she’s presented with a bouquet of roses.

After the announcement, Olmos told the enthusiastic crowd, “I thank my family for being there, for all the good times and the bad times. Thank you for this honor.”

Olmos said she’s been involved with Student Council, National Honors Society, Link Crew, Peer Mediation, Key Club, Academic All-Stars, MECHA, and Varsity Soccer.

Her other activities including working at a Subway store, volunteering at Mill Park Elementary as a tutor, playing in the River Park Soccer League, and participating in American Friends Service Committee and youth group. Her hobbies are playing soccer, coaching basketball and soccer, gardening, and listening to Mexican music.

After the selection, Principal Randy Hutchison commented, “This is a great opportunity for our kids.  It’s nice to see how many showed up for the competition. Any one of the students would’ve been a great selection, and we’re proud of them all. Brenda will make a great ambassador for David Douglas High School.”

After the gym cleared, Olmos told us, “I’m really excited. I thank all of my peers who supported me. I look forward to representing my school and meeting many people in the Portland Rose Festival program.”

Madison High Princess

Introducing Madison High School’s 2008 Portland Rose Festival Princess, Jill Tremblay. PRF Photo

Last week Madison High School also held their 2008 Portland Rose Festival Princess selection assembly.

The outcome: Representing Madison will be Jill Tremblay.

In the future, Tremblay said she plans to enroll in Portland State University’s Pre-Dental program, and later attend Oregon State University.

She’s been recognized for her participation in the Academy of Science & Natural Resources, Class Council, Track (hurdles and pole vaulting), and Cheerleading.

The other activities Tremblay said she enjoys are Art (drawing and painting), snowboarding, exercising, and Cosmology. She is involved with the Ascension Church Youth Group, and volunteers at Providence Children’s Hospital.

Marshall Campus’ Princess

The students at Marshall Campus selected Kim Pham as their 2008 Portland Rose Festival Princess. PRF Photo

And, during the same week, the four schools at Marshall Campus selected their 2008 Portland Rose Festival ambassador.

From the Pauling Academy of Integrated Science at Marshall Campus, Kim Pham won the title.

Asked about her plans, Pham said, “This fall, I plan to attend the University of Puget Sound in Tacoma, Washington. I’m not quite sure what I’ll be studying, but I’ve been contemplating Pre-Med for a very long time, so that might be it.”

Pham said she likes being active, and participates in tennis, soccer, National Honor Society, Music Club, and the school’s 2008 Yearbook – of which she’s the chief editor.

“I’ve done a lot of volunteering for Hands On Portland, and other projects,” Pham told us, “including cooking at Clark Center, Multnomah Summer Reading Program, serving seniors for Loaves and Fishes, playing the Easter Bunny for Easter Seals, and volunteering for Providence Center for Medically Fragile Children.”

Her hobbies include cooking, baking, riding bikes, going to concerts, playing guitar, writing poetry, drawing, and being in the outdoors.

Coronation on June 7
The 2008 Portland Rose Festival Queen’s Coronation takes place on June 7, just before the start of the Grand Floral Parade. For tickets, or more information, see CLICK HERE and we’ll take you directly to their web site. Or, call their hotline: 1-877-789-ROSE.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

For the second time in four days, late-night gunfire erupted on SE Division Street just east of SE 122nd Avenue. See what officials – and locals – say about this latest round of violence …

On early Sunday morning, gunfire caused patrons to scatter from what authorities say was an illegal, after-hours party at LaCueva Night Club on SE Division Street, just east of SE 122nd Avenue.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Both neighbors and business people are wondering about two late-night shooting sprees in the Midway area of outer East Portland, near the intersection of SE Division Street and 122nd Avenue.

At this time, officials aren’t saying whether or not the two shooting incidents, one in the wee hours of March 16 and the second just before midnight on March 20, are related. But, folks in the area say they’re concerned that this may indicate a dangerous trend.

Gunfire outside of LaCueva
At about 4:15 am, on March 16, Portland Police Bureau East Precinct officers were called to the area near the LaCueva Night Club – the most current name of a windowless party room that has been the location of many disturbances in the past.

“Several people called 911 to report that they heard gunshots,” said police spokesman Brian Schmautz. “Officers determined that participants in a nearby after-hours party appeared to have fired several shots at an unknown person or target.”

Hostile witnesses
Individuals at the scene were uncooperative and hostile towards the officers, Scnmautz reported. “Officers couldn’t find anyone who wanted to report a crime. The scene was processed and officers do not have a suspect in custody.”

Officers did see what appeared to be bullet holes in some vehicles and nearby buildings. “This investigation is continuing,” pointed added Schmautz.

Police guard the back lot of the Maverick Restaurant and Lounge on SE Division Street after they find shell casings, and a gun – said to be used in the most recent shooting spree.

Shootout at the Maverick
Fast-forwarding just four days to Thursday night, March 20, at 11:30 p.m. – the relative quiet of the evening was shattered as seven shots rang out behind the Maverick Restaurant and Lounge, at 12424 SE Division Street.

“You bet I heard the shooting,” said the night manager (she declined to give her name) of the Taco Bell restaurant located east of the Maverick. “It was loud. I think I heard seven shots – pop, pop, pop! It scared me. Then, a dark-colored car took off.”

Shortly thereafter, the eyewitness said she saw people running, “and cops pulled up right away. They started looking at buildings – trying to find bullet holes, I think.”

Neighbors and business owners in the area say they’re concerned about the recent increase in violent crime.

Cop confronts gun-toting felon
Apparently, officers did respond quickly to the shooting.

“East Precinct Officer Wilbon arrived on-scene, and confronted a suspect,” confirmed Portland Police Bureau spokeswoman Officer Cathe Kent.

“He was still holding a gun, as he got into a dark green Dodge Intrepid,” Kent continued. “The vehicle left the area and drove to SE 125th Avenue and Ivon Court, where officers initiated a high-risk traffic stop.”

We heard the police radio crackle with a report that officers had located several gun shell casings behind the Maverick, plus a gun. The crime scene was quickly cordoned off.

Police say they are charging 24-year-old Tyrone Mask with shooting up the area; but there was no apparent victim or reason for firing the gun.

“24-year-old Tyrone Mask was arrested and charged with Unlawful Use of a Weapon and Felon in Possession of Weapon,” Kent stated. “Additionally, Mask is an admitted gang member, and has numerous felony arrests for possession of firearms and for robbery, to name a few.”

Mask was booked into the Multnomah County Detention Center.  The driver of the vehicle was released. The gun was located behind Maverick’s Bar.

There was no shooting victim, Kent added, and investigators are still unsure why Mask was allegedly firing the gun.

LaCueva shot up – again
Investigators from the Gang Violence Response Team responded to the area to start an investigation, Kent told us.

“An additional crime scene was located at an after-hours club located at 12241 SE Division Street,” Kent reported. “It appears several bullets were fired into the back door of the club. No one was inside at the time of the shooting.”

Kent recalled that this was the second shooting this week connected to this after-hours club. “Investigators have asked for a building inspection, as well as involvement from OLCC regarding illegal drinking and various code violations discovered inside the building.”

If you have information related to either shooting, police ask that you call the Gang Violence Response Team at (503) 823-4106.

Business leader express concerns
Bill Dayton, the owner of Pizza Baron, a pizza parlor serving three decades of outer East Portland families, told us that crime in the area has ebbed and flowed over the years.

“Violent crime hasn’t been a big concern here,” said Dayton, the current president of the Midway Business Association. “But the statistics we’re getting from the police show an increase in shootings. It seems that crime from the inner city has been exported to outer East Portland.”

What concerns him, Dayton went on, is that government officials say that crime is going down in the Midway area. “This may be true, but it looks like we’re having more violent crime. Crime is one issue, violent crime is quite another issue.”

To help combat crime in the area, Dayton said that the Midway Business Association is supporting the Powellhurst-Gilbert Neighborhood Association and their new Citizen’s Bike Patrol to help detect problems – and report them to police – before violent crime takes place.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News Service

If you don’t yet know the Multnomah County Commissioner
District 3 candidates, take a look at this article …

Shirley Smith, sales representative with The OUTLOOK, is presented the famous Gateway Rubber Chicken, in thanks for the paper’s help in supporting the Gateway Fun-O-Rama.

Story by Watford Reed; Photos by David F. Ashton
Five candidates for the Multnomah County Commission District 3 agreed on more things than issues about which they argued when they spoke to the 50 members of the Gateway Area Business Association last week.

The district stretches from Laurelhurst to Lents, explained the Candidate Forum’s moderator, David F. Ashton.

More open decision-making, inclusion of everyone – not just special interest groups – and respect for the environment were the keynotes of the candidates who spoke to the group.

Multnomah County Commissioner District 3 candidate Bruce Barclay.

The first to speak was Bruce Barclay, a commercial appraiser in the County Assessors Office, who criticized “loose management” of county business.

He also called for credits to foster energy conservation, and criticized officeholders who “make decisions behind closed doors because they think they know best.”

Multnomah County Commissioner District 3 candidate Roy Burkett.

Roy Burkett, a veteran of 20 years in the electronics business, called for “fresh, workable plans based on American ideals.”

“The county and city have been in the grip of special interests for too long,” he charged.

He has learned to work with groups that have sharply different outlooks, he said.  He also called for steps to lessen crime by repeat offenders and said requiring restitution is often more effective than the punishment.

Multnomah County Commissioner District 3 candidate Mike Delman

Care for everybody’s welfare — not only those “at risk” – was urged by Mike Delman, public affairs director for the Portland Habilitation Center, which trains and finds work for the disabled. He said he was a lobbyist at one time for the American Federation of State County and municipal employees for 29 years.

He declared, “when I worked at the county, our employees were proud to be considered the government of last resort.  I think that attitude has been suppressed and I will work to bring it back.”

Multnomah County Commissioner District 3 candidate Rob Milesnick.

Business can work with environmentalists, said Rob Milesnick, who forecast that “change is going to happen”, and promised to “work to make county government more helpful.”

He stressed the need for public safety, “including MAX”, and said he will work for better health care for everyone and streamlined health-care plans.

Multnomah County Commissioner District 3 candidate Judy Shiprack.

Judy Shiprack, a former Oregon State legislator of three terms, former teacher, and one-time deputy district attorney, said that at one time 30,000 arrest warrants were outstanding in the county. She suggested that the prosecutor’s office call the defendants the day before they’re due to appear in a hearing, as doctors offices call patients. She claimed that this alone would “save the county millions of dollars”.

Candidates answer questions
In answer to questions, Shiprack said the state business tax rate is too low, and that makes County business taxes too high.  This, in turn, drives businesses away from Multnomah County and the Gateway District.

Melisnick called for better relations between city and county and said, “Strengthening this is will strengthen the county.”

Delman said the area needs more “fair wage” jobs, as well as a fair share of public appropriations.  Decision-making should be “collaborative,” he went on.

Burkett said two thirds of criminals are right back in jail within two years of their release.  They need jobs, he said.

Berkeley promised to encourage growth of small business, and said he listens to voters, because, “I don’t have all the answers.”

GABA’s Secretary, and long-time Gateway booster, Fred Sanchez (center), stands flanked by Richard Kiely as well as Greg Zuffrea from Home Run Graphics.

Graphics seminar featured at meeting
Just before the meeting, GABA members learned how to get the most for their printing and advertising specialty dollars from Richard Kiely and Greg Zuffrea of Home Run Graphics.

“Good design will help you save money when it comes to printing a project,” Kiely told the group. “And, having a good marketing idea behind the design will help the printed piece do its job.”

Greg Zuffrea told the group how matching the personality of a company with the advertising specialties improves the impact of a promotional campaign.

For more information, see their informative web site: CLICK HERE!

Next month: Mayoral Candidates Forum
On April 11, candidates in Portland’s race for the job of Mayor will come by to meet folks in Gateway.

Be sure to arrive by 11:30 a.m. to be assured of a seat. Reservations are not required; guests are welcome. Other than buying your lunch, the meeting is without cost. It’s at JJ North’s Buffet, 10520 NE Halsey St. Reservations NOT needed. For more information, go to www.gabanet.com.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News Service

When the car in which the costumes were stored was stolen, just before the state competition, the dance team’s coaches and parents got busy. Learn the rest of the story, here …

The Cleveland dancers show they are “on a mission” to win their championship, by rehearsing for hours on March 13, the day before their competition.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Just a few days before the Cleveland High School dance team’s entry into the state dance competitions, it looked like petty criminals might sink their spirits by stealing some of their costumes.

“My car was stolen,” said the team’s long-time coach and supporter, Ms. Chris Burgess, “right out of my driveway at my home in Gresham. It’s the third time it’s been stolen.”

Gone with her red Toyota Camry hatchback, were 30 ornate dance team headdresses, Burgess reported.

Instead of giving up, parents, sponsors, and coaches worked to reproduce the headgear in a day-long sewing bee on March 8.

Because of their dedicated rehearsal, their dancers placed well in the state dance competitions.

Found: Box of green glittery stuff
But on March 12, Burgess said she got a call from the police saying they had found her car. To make sure it was hers, officers asked her on the phone, “Did you have a box with a lot of green, glittery stuff in it? There’s glitter all over the back.”

Although her car was found a couple of miles from her house relatively undamaged, all of Burgess’ personal items were missing, as was a box containing four brand-new costumes.

“The headdresses added a lot to our intricate dance routine,” Burgess told us just hours before the team headed to the competition being held at Memorial Coliseum on March 14. “We’re going into the competition with two sets of headdresses.”

The situation didn’t seem to faze the dancers as we watched them rehearse their elaborate routine in the Cleveland High gym.

Focusing on their routines, dance coach Chris Burgess gives team members tips on tuning up one of their intricate routines.

‘On a mission’
After the competition, the team’s head coach, Nicole Narong, told us, “We felt great about the performance. We were on a mission to dance and represent our school well. We worked real hard, and all the girls are excited and happy to place in the state competition.”

Three Cleveland high students were among the six finalists in the drill-down, reported Cleveland High’s Assistant to the Principal, Sandee Dressel.

“In the 2008 Dance State Competition, Eilise Ward took first place, Lauren McLeron came in fourth and Brynn Opsahl placed fifth,” Dressel said. “Kendall Udoutch was selected to the 5A All-State team. Cleveland placed 5th in the 5A All-State Large School division.”

“Did the stolen costumes hinder the team?” we asked the coach.

“It was harder on the parents and coaches than on our dancers,” Narong said. “I’m so proud of our dancers. And, I’m thankful to our supporters, who helped out when we really needed them.”

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News Service