Don’t pass up seeing this powerful story presented
by the Parkrose High School Thespians, now playing.
It closes March 7 …

Slave girl Tituba (Kylie Simmons) tends her witch’s brew, as village girls dance with wild abandon – in defiance of their parents wishes.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
The Parkrose High School Thespian Troupe 1783 winter season production is the dramatic classic written by Arthur Miller, The Crucible.

The sparsely-decorated sets and evocative lighting focus audience members’ attention on the story, based on actual historical events surrounding the 17th Century Salem Witch Trials.

When Senator Joseph McCarthy set about “blacklisting” people like Miller, who were accused of being (or associating with) communists, during the infamous House of Representatives’ Committee on Un-American Activities hearings in 1956 – Miller said he wrote this story as an allegory as a response.

The sly and deceitful Abigail Williams (Taylor Grady) tells John Proctor (Olimpio Arellano), a man with whom she had an affair, that she will make sure his wife is charged with witchcraft.

About the story …
Teenage girls are caught cavorting around a pot of witch’s brew in the forest outside of a small Massachusetts hamlet in 1692. To keep from being hanged for practicing witchcraft, the girls, led by their cunning and devious friend Abigail Williams, start accusing other villagers of instigating devil worship.

Tituba admits she did little more than just dabble in the occult. To escape the gallows, she professes her faith in God – and accuses other village women of witchcraft – to Reverend John Hale (Jason Newman), a self-proclaimed expert in occultist phenomena.

The astute, yet weak of character, Ezekiel Cheever (Caesar Santizo), a onetime friend of Proctor, “finds” a doll planted by Abigail Williams with the aim of implicating Proctor’s wife in witchcraft, as an astonished Reverend Hale looks on.

Accusations start flying, as a visiting, well-meaning preacher – a self-professed expert in witchcraft – tries to find the truth. Instead, he accidentally fans the flames of deception. Some lie to advance in wealth; others tell falsehoods out of fear.

In the end, magistrates prosecute more than 150 townsfolk accused of witchcraft in colonial Massachusetts between February 1692 and May 1693 – and, sadly, many of the falsely-accused are put to death.

In the vestry of the Salem, Massachusetts, court, citizens and the accused make charges and countercharges of trickery, witchcraft and land theft.

Deputy Governor Thomas Danforth (Tom Crawford) is gulled by the performance of three of the girls caught dancing around the witch’s caldron, Margaret Parker (Amariah Moran), Lydia Foster (Amanda Coalwell), Betty Parris (Shannon Webb), when the treacherous Abigail Williams pretends to be plagued by spirits.

• Is it possible that Abigail Williams will get John Proctor all to herself, using her treacherous and deceptive means?
• Can “expert occultist” Reverend Hale find the truth – and convince magistrates of his findings – before innocent people hang at the gallows?
• Will Thomas Putnam get away with “appropriating” John Proctor’s land and animals while John languishes in jail?

Who will die? Who will be set free? Will slave girl Tituba really find her way back to her home in Barbados?

Come see The Crucible and find out!

“Miller’s demons were wrapped up in the McCarthy-era hearings,” noted Ms. Zena, the show’s director. “This story still resonates today; we still face prejudices based on a lack of knowledge – and sometimes on selfish actions based on a desire to make ourselves feel better or safer. This makes The Crucible a timeless play.”

Even though he seems to know that the witch trials in Salem are a sham, Deputy Governor Danforth (Tom Crawford) fears of being seen as weak – and of having his high government position undermined – if he releases any of the prisoners falsely accused of witchcraft.

John Proctor (center, blue shirt) professes his innocence, and holds to his convictions – but will this act cost him his life?

Production values add to the drama
Well-thought-out set design and decoration, period costumes, and dramatic lighting increase the realism of the story, as the drama builds throughout the evening.

The show features a cast of 30 students, and a production crew of 20 more. This production of The Crucible promises to be a great evening of theater. However, due to the dramatic adult themes (but not the content), it might be uncomfortable for very small children.

The cast assembles for a low-key curtain call at the end of this moving performance.

The Crucible runs through March 7
Opening night was on February 26; it plays on the evenings of February 27 and 28 – then again on March 6 and 7. Curtain time is 7 pm for all shows.

Tickets will be available at the door, and are only $8 for adults, $5 for students 18 and under, and $5 for honored citizens 65+. Come early to assure yourself a good seat.

The production is staged at the Parkrose High School Theatre, 12003 NE Shaver Street, just west of NE 122nd Avenue.

© 2009 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

You’ll be laughing out loud, as you try to figure out who is trying to romance whom in a hilarious play that has audiences saying, “Hello, Dolly!”

Dolly Levi (played by Kathryn Martin) – who states her principal occupation is “a woman who arranges things” – gives pre-nuptial advice to her late friend’s husband, the irascible merchant of Yonkers, Horace Vandergelder (John Ellis).

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Because so much grim news is in the headlines daily, David Douglas High School Theater Department instructor Michael Givler and the David Douglas Thespian Troupe decided to serve up a burgeoning buffet of laughter – by offering Thornton Wilder’s The Matchmaker as their winter production.

This classic comedy is based on an 1835 one-act farce in by John Oxenford called A Day Well Spent. Wilder adapted it into a full play, The Merchant of Yonkers, updating the play to the 1930s and moving the setting to New York; it closed after a few performances. At the urging of a Broadway director, Wilder extensively rewrote and renamed the play – and The Matchmaker became a hit, playing over 400 performances on Broadway before being turned into the Tony-Award-winning Broadway musical, Hello, Dolly!

Seeking to introduce some adventure in their otherwise dull lives as employees at Vandegelder’s grocery and hardware store, newly-named head clerk Cornelius Hackel (Sam DeRoest) hatches a plan for himself and his young associate, Barnaby Tucker (Carson Cook), to go on an escapade in New York City. A few ripe, exploding tomato cans later – they’re off to the big city!

Vandergelder thinks something fishy is going on (and he’s correct) when he and Dolly visit the hat shop owned by the woman he plans to marry, Irene Molloy. Irene certainly doesn’t love the grumpy, stingy Vandergelder, but she hopes to escape her dull life as a milliner.

Malachi Stack (Josh McKinney), Vandegelder’s newest clerk, listens from behind the potted plant with his boss, while Dolly advises young lovers – Vandegelder’s niece Ermengarde and her beau, poor artist Ambrose Kemper (Corey T-Cedarleaf) – of her uncle’s nefarious kidnapping plan.

About the story
This is a situation comedy about love and courtship, mistaken identities, and the desire for adventure and romance. This production of The Matchmaker is enhanced by the splendid sets and lighting provided by the student-run crew, led by theater manager Mark Taylor. The period costuming, supervised by theater instructor, Judy LeCoq, completes the characters.

Horace Vandergelder – a miserly old merchant of Yonkers, New York – is a wealthy widower. He wants to remarry, and engages the services of matchmaker Dolly Levi. As Vandergelder learns to his surprise, Dolly is determined to became his new wife.

Barnaby is nonplussed, and Minnie Fay (Vicki Walter), Irene Molloy’s clerk and Barnaby’s date, is shocked, as Cornelius demands that the foursome be given the exclusive use of the veranda at NYC’s exclusive Harmonia Gardens Restaurant – as Ruby (Audrey White), its snobbish senior waiter, tries to maintain dignity when dealing with the antics of the play’s main characters. The table Cornelius is upsetting was previously reserved for – who else? – Mr. Vandergelder.

After finding a wallet stuffed with money at the restaurant, Malachi Stack explains that he, a reformed petty thief, has decided to exercise one vice at a time, and he’s chosen booze! Not realizing it actually belongs to Vandergelder, Malachi “returns” the wallet to Cornelius – saving the two clerks from the embarrassment of taking Irene and Minnie to the pricy Harmonia Gardens – when they can’t even afford dinner at a hot dog stand.

Minnie, Barnaby, Cornelius, and Irene listen from behind the screen as Dolly tells Vandergelder that his intended – Irene Molloy – has fallen in love with another man, and won’t be joining them for dinner.

Dolly lectures and browbeats Vandergelder into feeling like he’s a small child who needs to be spoon-fed – telling him he’s not likely to find any woman who would want to be his new wife because of his unpleasant personality – except, perhaps possibly, herself.

Woven into this comedic tapestry is an assortment of characters associated with Vandergelder – including three of his employees, relatives, and friends who all yearn for romance and adventure in New York, and who end up pulling the wool over the blustery merchant’s eyes.

• Will Barnaby get kissed “by a real woman” for the first time?
• Can Ermengarde escape her uncle’s kidnapping plans, and marry Ambrose?
• Will Irene Molloy marry for money – or love?
• Is it possible for Cornelius to pay for an expensive date with the woman of his dreams when he’s broke, stay out of jail, and find the adventure he seeks?
• And, will Dolly be able to soften old Vandergelder’s heart?

Audiences are laughing as they discover the answers to these questions by watching performances of The Matchmaker, now playing!

Standing behind her sofa, the slightly addled Flora VanHuysen (Amanda Pred) – a friend of Vandegelder’s late wife – tells Ermengarde and Ambrose that she’ll have nothing to do with the uncle’s kidnapping plans, because she considers herself “a friend of all young lovers”. Cornelius is exasperated, because Flora has confused Ambrose with himself.

After love finds its way, and mistaken identities are cleared up and confusions are resolved, the cast accepts the applause of an appreciative audience.

Show runs through March 14
The Matchmaker continues its run on March 6 and 7; and on March 12, 13, and 14. Curtain time for all performances is at 7:30pm.

Order your tickets today: The cost is only $5 for students and seniors; $7 for adults. The Box Office is open from 3:00 p.m. until 5:30 p.m. on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. For more information, call (503) 261-8270 during Box Office hours.

The David Douglas High School Howard Horner Performing Arts Center is located at 1400 SE 130th Avenue, between SE Division and Stark Streets.

Theater arts instructor and theater manager Mark Taylor lends a hand backstage during one of the choreographed scene changes.

© 2009 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Are you a surfer (or ho-dad), looking for good time? Come out and enjoy this fun-in-the-sun musical, presented on March 19 and 20 …

Can these kids help save the Surf Shack from greedy developers? Come see this musical, that tells the story.

Story and photo by David F. Ashton
Even if you aren’t a surfer, you’ll enjoy the new musical being presented by Lent School called Wipeout! It will be playing on their stage on March 19 and 20.

“Our musical uses the talents of an all-star cast composed of 23 students from 5th through 8th grades,” said Rebecca Rothery, who occupies a triple role as the school’s eighth grade language arts teacher, the social studies teacher, and the drama director.

“The musical features students singing and dancing as they reveal life on sunny Avalon Beach,” Rothery explained, as the cast rehearsed a musical number. “This surf musical takes us back to a simpler time when life was groovy, the music was hip, and the world was about to change. It’s about a group of plucky teens who get together to save Mom and Pop’s ‘Surf Shack’ from being destroyed by a greedy, heartless land developer.”

In addition to the cast, five students serve as the show’s technical stage crew.

Show supports unique school program
“Lent School is the only elementary school with a dramatic program,” Rothery told us. “We have a music teacher, and a theater and an art teacher here.”

She added that many organizations have donated time and materials. “Some of our set design and props came from Michael Curry of Michael Curry Design – the man who won a Tony Award for ‘The Lion King’, and who has done work with Cirque du Soleil. We’ve had a lot of support generated to support these kids.”

Come hear The Verbtones live, as they rock out with surfer favorites before the March 20 show. Image used with permission

The Verbtones play before March 20 show
Pre-show entertainment is planned for both days. And, we learned that the fabulous Verbtones will be the ones to kick things off at the Friday, March 20 performance, at 6:00 p.m.

Formed in 2001, this band promotes their performances as “Showcase haunting, spine-chilling, vintage-yet-modern surf melodies for ho-dads and grimmys in Oregon and beyond”. They have a true love for today’s surf music – and “a respect for their surfin’ forefathers has influenced their unique sound, providing a time capsule from yesterday that somehow seems right for today.” To visit the band’s website, CLICK HERE.

Dinner and a show
During the pre-show entertainment, pizza and other refreshments will be available for sale as a part of the Lent Theater Program fundraising efforts, Rothery said.

The Lent SUN Community School proudly presents its musical comedy, Wipeout!, on Thursday, March 19 and Friday, March 20 from 6:00 until 8:30 pm.

Admission to the performance is $3.00 at the door. Admission for children 12 years & younger is $1.00. Lent School is located at 5105 SE 97th Avenue (between SE Harold Street and SE Holgate Boulevard).

© 2009 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Although he doesn’t consider himself a brave man, learn what Russell Dugan did when high winds whipped this house fire into a major conflagration …

Here, in the darkness of the early morning hours, Portland Fire & Rescue’s photographer Dick Harris captures firefighters at work, dousing wind-whipped flames at this outer East Portland house fire on March 12.

Story and daylight photos by David F. Ashton
His hands, blackened from the ashes of the home in which he once stayed, led him to apologize for the soot, as we shook hands at the conclusion of our interview. Behind him stands the charred shell that was once a modest outer East Portland home.

Yet, some neighbors are calling this man with the dirty hands, Russell Dugan, a hero.

Rescues roommate from blaze
“I’ll tell you what happened,” Dugan begins. “There was a big fire here!” he says as he tries to force a smile on his face to hide the distressing ordeal he’s endured.

“I woke up early this morning, and heard my roommate yelling,” recounts Dugan. “I could smell smoke and see fire. The dining room was engulfed in flames. The only exit I had out was the front door.”

We learn Dugan’s roommate is physically disabled, as Dugan continues: “I grabbed him, and went out the front door. I pushed him out the front door, and went back inside to get the dogs. I got one of the dogs out, and collapsed at the front door – there was too much smoke to go back in for the other dog.

Dugan says he then carried his roommate out into the front yard, clear of danger. “The house was engulfed in flames. The wind made the fire a lot worse. It picked up the fire and carried it over and burned part of the back-end of the neighbor’s house.”

Firefighters drench burning cars in the driveway between the burning home and the neighbor’s home to the north. PF&R, Dick Harris photo

Firefighters clock a four-minute response
Portland Fire & Rescue (PF&R) spokesman Lt. Allen Oswalt reports that when the fire crew pulled up 5200 block of SE 104th Avenue at 3:09 a.m. – four minutes after the alarm went out – they reported heavy smoke obscuring the scene.

“They made their way down the street, driving through smoke so thick it was hard to see the road, or what exactly was on fire,” Oswalt tells us. “The east wind was blowing the smoke from the fire and keeping it at ground level.”

When the crew of PF&R Engine Company 11 broke through the smoke, they reported in to dispatch, “One house is fully involved, [there are] multiple vehicle fires, and fire exposure to the neighboring house.”

“Because of the amount of fire, and because it had spread to cars and possibly the neighboring house, a second alarm was called to bring additional firefighters to the scene,” relates Oswalt, adding that 53 firefighters, with eight engines and two trucks, were called to fight the fire. We observe that the damage to the neighboring house was limited to the south wall of the home.

By the light of day, the devastation caused by early-morning blaze is clearly evident.

Working smoke detector saves lives
Oswalt says that one of the occupants of the house told investigators that a working smoke alarm had alerted him, and he woke his roommate, and they both escaped.

The man Dugan rescued, who officials say is man in his 60’s, suffered non-life- threatening first and second degree burns, and was transported to Emanuel Hospital.

The Oregon Trail Chapter of the American Red Cross was called in to assist the occupants with housing, clothing, and the other needs that they will have for the next several days.

If firefighters had been slow to respond, two or more homes could have been destroyed by the wind-whipped flames.

After finding two wallets in the burned house, Dugan says he’s amazed.

Praises firefighters’ response
In his hands, Dugan holds two wallets – still intact – and a pair of usable eyeglasses.

“I’m really grateful that there was no loss of life except for one of our pet dogs,” he says. “The fire department did a good job getting here quickly and did a great job of saving what they could in the house. What is salvageable, I don’t know yet.”

© 2009 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

If you pay rent, discover why you may want to plan spending part of Saturday, April 18 at the East Portland Homeownership Fair. Learn about how to avoid foreclosure, also …

LHI’s Amie Diffenauer and Christine Rhoney, SUN Site Manager at Kelly Elementary School, welcome folks to last year’s Homeownership Fair.

Story and photo by David F. Ashton
Saturday, April 18th, from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm, is the day and time of the free,  4^th East Portland Homeownership Fair!

“The purpose of the Lents Homeownership Initiative is to help renters become homeowners,” says ROSE Community Development’s community organizer, Amie Diffenauer, about the organization putting on the fair. “The more families who own their home in a community, the stronger and more vital it becomes.

Diffenauer notes that this year’s East Portland Homeownership Fair, again at Kelly Elementary School, 9030 SE Cooper St. (west of SE 92nd Ave. and a couple blocks north of SE Flavel St.) offers both informational exhibits and informative seminars.

Specifically, you’ll find:

• Free raffle for a $4,000 home buyer’s assistance grant (you must attend at least one workshop to enter the Grant Raffle)
• Home Buyer and Home Owner Workshops
• Free Burgerville lunch
• Youth activities, and raffle for prizes
• Vietnamese, Russian, Spanish, Cantonese and Mandarin interpreters available
• Information on community organizations and resources in East Portland
• Realtors, lenders, home buying counselors, and businesses sharing their products and services

Check out the free workshops offered:

• Steps to Home Ownership – Learn about the key steps you’ll likely take on your way to a home of your own.
• Improving Your Credit Score – Find out why a good credit history and score are crucial for buying a home in today’s lending environment and how to build better credit.
• Homebuyer Re$ources – Discover the many financial assistance and tax credit programs for first-time homebuyers. Many buyers never even hear about these programs and miss out!
• Ask the Home-buying Experts Panel – Learn everything you want to know about buying a home. Bring your toughest questions and get answers from experts.
• Homeownership Preservation – In this workshop you’ll hear from one of the best local foreclosure prevention counselors in town.  Don’t guess, get the facts.
• Should I Re-fi? – Take this workshop to learn all the details around refinancing your home, tapping the equity to do improvements or paying critical bills.
• Age-In-Place with a Reverse Mortgage – Learn from a local lender how specializes in helping show seniors how they can tap this equity without selling their house creating income for themselves  so they can afford to stay in their home.
• Ask the Experts (for Homeowners) Panel – What is on your mind? Everything you want to know and more about home loans, the real estate market, the current financial crisis, refinancing options, changes in lending practices, special programs for homeowners, short sales, foreclosures, real estate scams  and more is fair game this workshop.

This fair is hosted by the Lents Homeownership Initiative partners: ROSE Community Development and Kelly SUN Community School (Impact Northwest’s SUN Community Schools are a collaboration of Multnomah County Department of Human Services, the City of Portland Parks and Recreation and Portland Public Schools.)

Sponsors: Portland Development Commission, Bureau of Housing & Community Development, Standard TV and Appliance, Burgerville, Fred Meyer, Univision, Wells Fargo, Unitus Community Credit Union, US Bank, HomeStreet Bank, Tracy Brophy with REMAX, & National City Mortgage

For more information, contact Amie Diffenauer at (503) 788-8052 x105 or see www.rosecdc.org.

© 2009 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

If you want to grow your own veggies this season,
now’s the time to start! Discover the “3 Top Tips”
we learned at this class for first-time farmers …

Liza Judge, with Portland Parks & Recreation Community Gardens program, gives new “backyard farmers” tips for planning a vegetable garden.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
If you’ve considered growing vegetables in your own garden, you’ve got company. More than 30 budding backyard farmers came to get tips from Liza Judge, with Portland Parks & Recreation (PP&R) Community Gardens, at People’s Food Co-op on S.E. Division Street on April 2.

Classes like hers are popular, Judge observed. “There are a lot of new gardeners out there. With the economy tightened up, people seem more interested. Also, people what to know where their food comes from. And, many people want to be part of the process of growing their own food.”

“Whether in your backyard – or in a PP&R Community Garden plot – you can produce a bumper crop of vegetables with the investment of a few dollars for seeds or starts, and a bit labor,” Judge told the group.

Many of those who attended – almost all of them acknowledging they are new to gardening – had come to Portland from cities with different climates.

Climate affects growing season
“The Pacific Northwest climate – also known as a ‘maritime climate’ – has mild winters and cool summer nights,” Judge said. “This creates challenges for ripening crops such as tomatoes. But, many varieties have been developed by companies like Territorial Seed Company to do well in our climate.”

Judge pointed out that Portland’s growing season is longer than in other parts of the country because of mild winters. “The key is timing. You need to plant fall and winter gardens in July and August. By September, it’s too late.”

Here, April 26th is considered the last “frost date” of spring, and October 18 as the first of the coming winter season. “Soil temperature is as important as air temperature – 60 degrees is ideal for most spring plantings.”

Starting your garden just after the last frost produces the best results, Judge explains.

Recommended planning before planting
Planning the garden’s location, and its crop, are key to successfully growing a vegetable garden, Judge said.

When planning a garden, she pointed out four considerations:

1. Sunlight – Vegetables need a minimum of 6 hours of sunshine, and southern exposure;
2. Healthy soil – Well-drained and fertile. Sandy loam with organic matter;
3. Ventilation – Air movement prevents fungal diseases; and,
4. Convenient – Easy access for care and picking.

Attendees took notes as Judge explained how to prepare planting seed beds and noted the easiest-to grow vegetables – a list that included beets and turnips, potatoes, cucumbers, tomatoes, hot peppers, green beans, and zucchini.

The new gardeners took in how and when to plant, watering techniques and how to deal with pests.

Judge says that large, healthy plants grow from healthy soil.

Top three tips revealed
After the class, we asked Judge to tip some her top secrets for successful vegetable gardening:

• Amend your soil – “Don’t just dig up earth, use compost. A key to successful organic gardening is that building healthy soil yields healthy plants.”
• Covering new plants – Cloches – which are little hoop houses – or mini green houses protect tomatoes during the cooler early spring and summer weather, through May and June. “Instead of being left with green tomatoes at the end of the season, give these plants a boost by covering them so they’ll ripen earlier.”
• Choose varieties suited for our climate – Don’t fight the climate, adjust to it. “Consider buying starts and transplants at the farmers markets. These folks know what grow well, and are willing to share their knowledge and help you learn.”

Judge also told about the bureau’s Community Garden program, saying, “It provides gardening and greening opportunities for the physical and social benefit of the people and neighborhoods of Portland. It encourages organic gardening, soil building, composting, food sustainability, and community involvement through cooperative intergenerational activities.”

We also learned that, while Portland Parks & Recreation’s Community Gardening program is not on the City’s budget chopping block, outreach classes like this one are. If you think they’re valuable, let your Portland City Commissioners know.

You can learn more about the Community Gardens program by visiting their website: CLICK HERE.

© 2009 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Why did Portland City Commissioner Nick Fish come out to the neighborhood coalition offices? See it all right here …

Before the East Portland Parks Coalition convenes, Commissioner Fish’s assistant, George Hocker Jr., meets with Committee Chair Alesia Reese, as well as with Portland City Commissioner Nick Fish.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
A real draw for the April East Portland Parks Coalition meeting was the visit by Portland City Commissioner Nick Fish, who is in charge of Portland Parks & Recreation.

Before the meeting got underway, the coalition’s Chair, Alesia Reese, confided that Fish’s visit was important – especially in a year with shrinking City budgets. “It’s important for him to hear and understand the concerns that East Portland neighbors have, regarding their parks.”

Reese noted that outer East Portland neighbors are thrilled that the Portland City Council did approve “master plans” outlining how three parks will be developed.

“Our primary concern is that these Master Plans don’t sit on the shelf gathering dust,” noted Reese. “We hope that they come off the shelf, and that the Beech Property, Clatsop Butte, and Parklane Park see some – even if only minor – development. A few trails, a few benches, something to ignite interest, and support these Master Plans. This will encourage citizens to support bonds or levies in future years.”

As the meeting opened, Reese revealed that Nick Fish was the first City Commissioner to visit the Coalition since its formation four years ago.

For the first time since the East Portland Parks Coalition’s founding, a City Commissioner in charge – Nick Fish – meets with the group.

East Portlanders speak up
Fish said he was glad to bring some good news to the committee. “The good news is at the Portland City Council is paying attention; they are looking east of Interstate 205. They’re asking the question, ‘How can we help enhance the quality of life here?’ As the new Parks Commissioner, I am very interested in what the East Portland Parks Coalition is thinking, and I need their help in defending my Parks budget. Also I want to know where they would like to see our resources focus.”

A concern expressed was the possibility for the entrance to the Powell Butte Nature Park to be moved, and a new one built, due to the reservoir construction project scheduled to start this summer.

The attendees asked pointed questions about the budgeting process; the level of funding for parks in other cities; and, whether Fish thought there was equity in parks across the city.

Fish says the Portland City Council is finally grasping the concept of “parks equity”.

“Equity is an essential value,” Fish replied. “The new aquatic facility at the East Portland Community Center, and the three new Parks Master Plans, indicate that the City grasping the concept.”

Referring to the three Master Plans, Fish said that they have the potential to “create signature parks” for an under-served area.

Three immediate priority goals mentioned by the Commissioner included:

• Greatly expanding the Community Gardens program – Fish noted there are currently 1,200 outstanding requests for plots;
• Establishing a Youth Conservation Corps – Formation of this new organization could address the needs of the park’s forest areas and clear natural areas of invasive species; and,
• Upgrading outdoor playing fields – “We want to enable the City’s children and youth to enjoy the same benefits experienced by those who live in the suburbs.”

Commissioner Fish concluded by noting that parks are part of our essential infrastructure. “We need positive momentum and stability with our core services and programs.”

Special thanks to George Hocker for his help in preparing this story.

© 2009 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Find out all about the Portland Police Bureau’s “Plan to Address Racial Profiling”, and why the meeting to discuss it was held at the East Portland Community Center …

Portland Police Bureau Chief Rosie Sizer talks with the facilitator of the “Plan to Address Racial Profiling”, held in outer East Portland.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Portland Police Bureau’s “Plan to Address Racial Profiling” was scrutinized at a public meeting, in order to give citizens an opportunity to address their concerns.

If you’re not aware of this document, CLICK HERE to see a PDF of the 36-page report.

Before the meeting began, we asked Portland Police Bureau (PPB) Chief Rosie Sizer why the East Portland Community Center was chosen for the meeting on April 2.

“East Portland is one of the most racially diverse, economically diverse, and youthful parts of our city,” replied Sizer. “I hope to have a real dialogue, and get some feedback. I hope people will see that they can find ways to help facilitate the realization of the elements of the plan. I want to continue this engagement.  We’re very lucky to be working with the Office of Human Relations, and the Human Relations Commission to move this plan forward.”

Chief Sizers calls the meeting to order and tells of how the document came into existence.

History of the “Plan to Address Racial Profiling”
When she was appointed interim chief of police about three years ago, Sizer said it was brought to her attention that the PPB had not “reported on contact data selection. This is data we take when we conduct traffic or subject stops. People have wanted this information.”

She said it has been about two years since the data was reported at that time.

“Then, we developed a partnership with Oregon Action. We talked with people and held ‘listening sessions’.  Police officers and community members – especially community of colors – talked about their experience regarding traffic stops, and more racially-charged issues. (To learn more about the Oregon Action organization, CLICK HERE.)

“Clearly, in the history of Portland, there’ve been a number of those incidents. There has been historic tension between the Portland Police Bureau and communities of color. We’ve had very frank and respectful conversations.”

Based on these meetings, Sizer said Oregon Action published a report.

The Mayor at the time, Sizer continued, committed to swiftly completing a plan based on the report. “The plan was wildly optimistic – optimistic and good-hearted – but optimistic. This committee met for over two years. During this time, we identified elements of an idea to be used in the Racial Profiling Plan.”

Four areas of progress outlined
Sizer said the bureau’s “Plan to Address Racial Profiling” published in February, 2009, points how they plan to “make progress” in four principal areas:

1. Recruiting – developing a more diverse PPB workforce.
2. Engagement – working with communities of color to the mutual benefit of that community and the police officers’ only contact with that community during 9-1-1 emergency calls. “You can get a very perverse look at the world by responding to 9-1-1 calls. We’re looking to engage in more creative and collaborative ways,” Sizer noted.
3. Training – developing training policies and practices.
4. Data collection – making sure the data collected reflects the nature of the contacts.

“Much of the Racial Profiling Committee data has been debated,” Sizer acknowledged.  “I think many of us on the committee, over time, came to the realization that we may never know what the best data is, or what all the data means. But there are certainly things we can do to improve the situation for community members and police officers alike.”

Maria Lisa Johnson, Director of the Portland Office of Human Relations, asks the group to make suggestions and outline challenges they see with the plan.

Discussion groups comment
With that, Sizer introduced Maria Lisa Johnson, “the director of the city’s smallest bureau, the Portland Office of Human Relations.”

Present, along with the citizens at the tables, was a facilitator from the Office of Human Relations, a member of the Human Rights Commission, and a member of the upper command staff of the Portland Police Bureau.

“The goal is to go through some of the strategy we’ve identified [in the Plan] to make things better in our community,” Johnson explained. “And then, to work through two principal questions: ‘What suggestions do you have to make things better in our community oversight, and what suggestions do you have to strengthen our approach to the proposed strategies?  And, what challenges do you see in the strategies, and why?'”

Results from the feedback sessions have not yet been published. Johnson said that a web presence for commenting on the plan has not been established – but citizens can call their office at (503) 823-5510, or use their online response form: CLICK HERE.

Citizen Kevin Foster sits with Northeast Precinct Commander Jim Ferraris, East Precinct Commander Michael Crebs, and participant Sean McShane, as they discuss the Plan.

© 2009 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

See how long it took kids to swoop in and collect fields full of Easter eggs at these two traditional events …

The Easter Bunny presents Poppy and Finnegan Friel with … fresh carrots!?!

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Volunteers prepared for days, for the April 11 Easter Egg Hunts – and then spent hours sowing parks with foil-covered chocolates and plastic-shelled eggs at two East Portland parks. We were fortunate to witness them both!

“This is a really fun event,” grinned Edwina Swart, President of the Oaks Bottom Lions Club, at Westmoreland Park, a few minutes before their 10:00 a.m. start time. “This is our sixth year doing this, and we always look forward to it.”

Westmoreland Park egg hunt organizers Edwina Swart and Fran Shaw, with the Oaks Bottom Lions Club, pause after all the eggs have been distributed.

At exactly 10:00 a.m., kids rush out to start gathering candy at this event.

Ten volunteers planted the south lawn of the park with thousands of foil-covered chocolate Easter Eggs, supplied by the Sellwood Moreland Improvement League neighborhood association (SMILE), while the Easter Bunny, as usual, gave kids real carrots, provided by New Seasons Markets.

Parents lined up their kids behind one of three section tapes, marking off areas for toddlers, little kids, and older youth.

Audrey Morris is looking for her next nest of Easter eggs to collect.

Alana, dad Tom Keepes, Andrew, and Olivia show off their Easter Egg collection.

Anticipation ran high, as kids – restrained by their parents – awaited the appointed moment to dash out and gather the goodies set out for them. Within minutes of the start, the whirlwind of children picked the lawns clean of goodies.

Easter comes to Woodstock
When we next arrived at Woodstock Park, organizers were minutes away from their own 10:30 a.m. start time.

“It’s the 11th Woodstock Park Easter Egg Hunt,” said event chair Tom Vice, as he kept a careful watch on the time using his cell phone. The hunt, originated and run for years by realtor Janis Wigg, was recently assumed by the Woodstock Neighborhood Association (WNA).

Tom Vice, one of this year’s organizers of the Woodstock Easter Egg Hunt, counts down to the start time of the 11th annual event.

Boys, girls, moms, and dads make a dash for the eggs and prizes at Woodstock Park.

Vice said that volunteers stuffed 1,900 plastic eggs with toys, a coupon good for merchandise or candy; they also distributed another 1,500 foil covered chocolate eggs on the lawn in the park.

“We’ve divided our hunt into two sections: one for older kids, and one for the little ones. Hopefully everyone will go away happy,” Vice told us.

Some run to the far corners of Woodstock Park; others start gathering nearby eggs as the Hunt begins.

Logan Hancock, Cedrus Barrett, and mom Samantha Hancock say they’ve got what they came for – Easter Eggs loaded with treats!

“This event helps connect our neighbors with each other,” Vice said about the egg hunt. “And, it involves area businesses with the neighbors. We have lots of sponsors this year, and we especially thank those who donated food: First Cup, Papaccino’s, Space Monkey, His Bakery, Sweetness, and Mehri’s Café and Bakery for helping out.”

The elapsed time between Vice calling “Go!” and the lawn being picked clean was about four minutes.

But, neighbors spent a good portion of the rest of the morning opening and recycling the plastic eggs, and networking. The kids? They were happily munching on the candy!

Volunteer Jodi Smith shows lucky ticket-holders the prizes they’ve won in the drawing, complements of Woodstock-area businesses.

© 2009 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Come on out and see bands, Portland Rose Festival Princesses, classic cars and much more during the 9 AM parade – and enjoy the Eastport Plaza Carnival that follows …

Here’s how last year’s parade looked as it began and headed north on 82nd Avenue of Roses. Organizers say this year’s parade will be even bigger, better, and more exciting.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
After working all year long, the committee behind the 2009 82nd Avenue of Roses Grand Parade says they’re ready to have a great time during this year’s edition – scheduled for Saturday, April 25, at 9:00 a.m.

“We’re thrilled that the event grows every year,” proclaims Ken Turner, president of the 82nd Avenue of Roses Business Association, “and this year’s parade will be better than ever.”

Parade starts at Eastport Plaza
The 2009 82nd Avenue of Roses Grand Parade begins at Eastport Plaza, just north of SE Holgate Boulevard. It marches north on the Avenue of Roses, and finally disperses in the Montavilla Neighborhood area, Turner tells us.

New this year will be a reviewing stand at Eastport Plaza, in addition to the bleachers and public announcement area, just north of SE Division Street – hosted by Portland Community College’s Southeast Center.

Help by volunteering as a “street monitor”, like these two did last year.

Worlds’ largest ‘standing’ marching band
One of the highlights of this year’s parade will be the “One More Time Around Marching Band” – “the world’s largest standing musical organization” – regularly featured in Portland Rose Festival parades and events. Kell’s Irish Pipes & Drums Corps will also enliven the parade this year.

The parade will be led by members of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1442 color guard.

You’ll see the Portland Rose Festival Court Princesses in their first official group appearance – accompanied by the dapperly dressed Royal Rosarians, and members of the Portland Rose Society.

All kinds of specialty vehicles, from antique military trucks to classic cars, will cruise up 82nd Avenue.

“Many other unique, colorful individuals and groups are making arrangements to march in this lively parade. In all, about 50 entries will grace the parade this year,” Turner adds.

Check out Carnival Days after the parade at Eastport Plaza and make a fun day of it!

Community Carnival and Bike Rodeo after the parade
Several after-parade events are scheduled at Eastport Plaza and the Montavilla/South Tabor Business District.

From April 23 through 26, Eastport Plaza hosts “Carnival Days”, featuring FUNtastic amusement rides and games. “But after the parade, we have a ton of things happening here on April 25 in addition to the thrill rides,” reports Eastport Plaza’s Sadee Daniels. They include:

• Clown balloon artist and juggler;
• Stilt walkers;
• Pony rides;
• Caricature artist and face painting;
• Live music with The Carolina Pump Station, Trash Can Joe, Get a Life Marching Band, and a Strolling Barbershop Quartet;
• KGON 92.3 will broadcast live, and will provide a chance to win a Ford F150 and a Harley Davidson “Rocker”; and,
• There will be informational booths staffed by community service providers and civic groups.

And, on the north end of the parade, members of the Montavilla/South Tabor Business Association host a Bike Rodeo and safety clinic on S.E. Yamhill Street – where the parade disbands.

Don’t let this year’s parade pass you by! Make plans to come out on April 24 at 9:00 a.m.!

Not too late to volunteer
If you’re not content to sit on the sidelines watching a parade pass you by, consider volunteering on the day of the parade. “We need volunteers to help, by briefly closing off side streets as the parade passes,” said Johnni Jones, the event’s volunteer coordinator. “It’s easy – and you get to watch the parade!” Contact her by e-mailing: johnni.jones@gmail.com.

Registration for the parade begins at 7:30, and closes off at 8:30 am; the parade begins promptly at 9 am, Turner smiles, “Come out and enjoy the day, at this great family community event.”

© 2009 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

See exclusive photos of the SERT callout that shut down a large portion of Lents and Powellhurst-Gilbert neighborhoods, and learn about the progress of the investigation …

We find every street blocked off, as SERT and district officers comb the blocks looking for suspects who officials say shot a Vancouver cop in the chest.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Not often does a crime that takes place in Vancouver, Washington, affect the lives of outer East Portland citizens.

But, on April 15, a good-sized portion of the Powellhurst-Gilbert and Lents neighborhoods were locked down as Portland Police Bureau district officers – and members of the Special Emergency Reaction Team (SERT) – searched for a gunman who they think shot Vancouver Police Sgt. Jay Alie in the chest about 9:30 p.m. that night.

According to Vancouver Police Department Public Information Coordinator Kim Kapp, the incident started in Vancouver Heights when a neighbor called 911 reporting several individuals hauling pillowcases full of loot from a home to a white, 4-door vehicle with Oregon plates.

“Sgt. Alie spotted the vehicle driving through the neighborhood at a high rate of speed,” stated Kapp, “and attempted a traffic stop.”

Illuminated by street lamps, and the lights from nearby convenience store, a member of the SERT team heads out to back up East Precinct district officers during the manhunt that continued throughout the night.

Suspected thief takes a shot
As he exited his patrol car, one of the passengers of the suspect vehicle opened fire, and shot Alie in the chest. Fortunately, he was wearing a bullet-resistant, ballistic vest, and the injury was minor.

The white sedan took off and headed south, into Oregon, on I-205.

Talking to us near a roadblock on S.E Holgate Boulevard near SE 112th Avenue, Portland Police Bureau spokesperson Detective Mary Wheat filled us in on what happened next. “Our officers followed up on information that the suspect vehicle might be in the area of S.E. Portland. They spotted the possible suspect vehicle in the area of SE 114th Avenue and Pardee Street. Two possible suspects fled on foot from the vehicle.”

The suspected thieves and cop-shooter didn’t get far; Wheat said two subjects were taken into custody a few minutes later, and detained.

Despite the arrests, police kept the neighborhoods quarantined until they removed their roadblocks about 6:30 a.m. on April 16. We learned from an official who was at the scene that police were looking for additional suspects; whether or not they were located was left uncertain.

The neighborhood was in “lockdown” until dawn of the following day.

Suspects’ identity remain a mystery
“The two individuals have been arrested and booked on charges unrelated to last night’s incidents in Vancouver,” Kapp told us at deadline. “Charges regarding the burglary and shooting will be referred to the Clark County Prosecutor’s Office for review. Due to the ongoing nature of the investigation, the names of those individuals are not being released at this time.”

Officials say the crooks took a shot at this man, Vancouver Police Sgt. Jay Alie; he has been released from the hospital, Kapp said, and did not sustain serious injuries because of his bullet-proof vest.

Wheat added, “Detectives continue to process evidence, and several search warrants are being served related to this ongoing investigation. The Vancouver Police Major Crimes team is working closely with the Portland Police Bureau. No further information is available.”

© 2009 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Many politicians host public meetings – but this one was different and, many say, better. Find out why …

Oregon State Senator Rod Monroe listens as Representative Jefferson Smith sets the stage for the Town Hall meeting at Midland Library.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
We’ve attended our share of “Town Hall” meetings held by politicians. Many of these forums follow a standard format: The representative or senator makes a self-aggrandizing speech and touts the party line. Then, attendees complain about problems they find in their community.

But, the one held by Oregon State Representative Jefferson Smith and Senator Rod Monroe on March 22 at Midland Library was different – in several good ways.

After self-introductions, Smith brought up the State’s budget shortfall. Instead of lecturing the assembly, he asked for volunteers from the audience to take sides in a friendly debate that could have been entitled “Cutting costs vs. increasing revenues”.

When we later asked Smith to comment, he noted, “It’s important to see the budget as a set of connected factors. It’s not just an independent set of binary ‘yes-no’ choices.

“It was interesting that everyone there – including people from a variety of political parties – agreed that we need to consider revenue increases along with service cuts. When the question is posed more honestly, there is surprising consensus.”

Representative Smith says this East Portland budget debate produced surprising consensus.

TriMet in the cross-hairs
The second part of the session focused on issues surrounding the MAX Light Rail line in outer East Portland.

Neighbors expressed their concern about ongoing reports of crime – both on the trains and at the stations.

Smith and Monroe told the group about bills regarding MAX “greeters” and having “visible ticketing” for riders of the line. They also said they would participate in a “Take Back the MAX” event in the next few months.

TriMet spokesperson Olivia Clark observed that the agency is considering putting ticketing machines inside the MAX trains, instead of at the station. “This would be a complete change in direction, and an additional cost. You must have a ticket to board the train and, in some cases, you will need to have proof of payment to stand on a MAX platform.”

She added that, even with fully-functioning ticket machines, “it is risky to try to purchase a ticket right before boarding.”

Considers the event successful
Smith noted, after the Town Hall, “We are very grateful to have such a talented and involved group of folks helping us work through some of these difficult issues.”

Contact information:

• Representative Jefferson Smith: rep.jeffersonsmith@state.or.us; local phone (503) 255-2136 – or see his website by CLICKING HERE.
• Senator Rod Monroe: sen.rodmonroe@state.or.us; telephone (503) 255-2136 or visit his website by CLICKING HERE.

© 2009 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News