Find out why about 20 police folks – including the commander – are sporting a very short hairstyle now, in the dead of winter …

His son Tanner, Deputy District Attorney J.R. Ujifusa, his daughter Grace, and freshly “cropped” Portland Police Bureau East Precinct Commander Michael Crebs watch, as other officers participate in “Gracie’s Crop-A-Cop” fundraiser for Doernbecher Children’s Hospital.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
The Portland Police Bureau East Precinct Community Room took on the appearance of an Army recruit processing center barbershop on the afternoon of January 26. East Portland cops, and officers from other jurisdictions, walked in with a full head of hair – and walked out with a close-cropped buzz-cut.

“We’re calling it ‘Gracie’s Crop-A-Cop’,” explained the Multnomah County Deputy District Attorney stationed at East Precinct, J.R. Ujifusa. “My daughter, Gracie, was diagnosed with leukemia in August. The chemotherapy caused her to lose her hair.”

Fortunately, the treatment was successful, Ujifusa said, holding his daughter – who sported an almost-too-large for her cap. “Thanks to her treatment at Doernbecher Children’s Hospital, now she’s doing great.”

This “Crop-a-Cop” event, put together by East Precinct Sergeant Deb Steigleder, gives friends, family members, and officers the opportunity to support Gracie’s recovery by shedding their locks, the organizer said. “And, it’s a fundraiser for Doernbecher.”

Becky Martin from Salon Ambience prepares SPI Detective Teresa Uttke for her new hairstyle.

Detective gets clipped, again
We missed Commander Michael Crebs’ and Lt. Anderson’s haircuts, but we were there to witness Special Property Investigations Detective Teresa Uttke – yes, a female – join the men in getting a new, low-maintenance hairstyle.

“This isn’t the first time I’ve done this,” Uttke told us as she moved to the shearing chair. “I did this back in 1997 and 1998. I think this is for a very good cause.”

The room suddenly feels a bit cooler to her, as Detective Uttke loses her locks.

In addition to her own $10 donation, we learned that Uttke was submitting to the tortuous tonsorial treatment to fulfill $846 in pledges.

“You look at that little girl, and your heart melts,” Uttke said softly, as Becky Martin from Salon Ambience got ready to buzz-cut her next customer.

In all, Sergeant Steigleder reported that the event raised $5,000 for the children’s hospital.

Detective Uttke proudly shows off her new ‘do – actually, the lack thereof – and joins the ranks of some 20 others who also wanted to support Gracie’s campaign for Doernbecher.

© 2009 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

If you haven’t been to a concert given by the East County Community Orchestra, here’s what you’ve been missing …

Filling the auditorium stage are musicians of all ages, who play for the East County Community Orchestra.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
The auditorium at the Horner Performing Arts Center at David Douglas high School was nearly filled to capacity, as the lights went down and the curtain opened – revealing the members of the East County Community Orchestra, on January 16.

The Winter Concert began as director Jack Mahoney raised his baton and the orchestra played a rousing rendition of the Star Spangled Banner. The some-60 players then entertained their audience with the snappy “Emblem of Unity March”, composed in 1941 by Joseph Jon Richards.

Next they presented a classical work: The overture to the “Prince Igor” opera. Music lovers were also treated to the music of George Gershwin, the lively “Clear Track Polka”, the well-known bossa nova song “The Girl from Ipanema”, and other orchestral tunes.

Yes, that’s Dr. Howard Horner, the retired David Douglas Schools Superintendent for whom the auditorium is named, tooting out his bass-line part on a Sousaphone, as the orchestra plays a march.

Alto saxophonist Juan Gregrio is the featured soloist for the great jazz standard “Time after Time”.

Stepping up to the front as the concert continued was alto saxophonist Juan Gregrio, playing the jazz standard written by Sammy Chan and Jule Styne “Time after Time”. Additionally, trumpet soloist Ray B. Johnson was featured in a song that he wrote and arranged, “I Remember Howard”.

During the intermission, we asked the orchestra’s conductor, Jack Mahoney, how he picked music the program.

Picks both challenging and popular tunes
“We try to play music that’s interesting for the musicians, and also has audience appeal,” Mahoney replied. “The ‘Prince Igor’ piece was perhaps a ‘little heavy’ on the classical side for some of our audience, but they were polite. I must tell you, we had a ball playing it; the performance was very enjoyable for us. The rest of the music we play is light. We want the audience to enjoy the concerts.”

Jack Mahoney conducts the East County Community Orchestra.

The orchestra is an all-volunteer organization, Mahoney noted, made up mostly of retired professional musicians. “Our oldest player, our first-chair clarinet, is 93 years of age. The youngest one is 17 years of age – a violinist, Kenneth Hangartner; he’s home schooled – this is a good musical experience for him with a large group.”

The orchestra is good for the community in two ways, Mahoney concluded.

“It gives our mature musicians a way to remain active; music is a wonderful outlet. They all enjoy the congeniality. They all come every week to practice, and never miss a session,” the conductor said, with a coda, “and we bring the community together to enjoy good music.”

Take a bow! Look for the Spring Concert of the East County Community Orchestra, coming up in June, in our Community Calendar listings. The concerts are free; the organization is supported by donations.

© 2009 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

The bad weather didn’t keep this hearty group of businesspeople from having a good time. Catch up right here on what’s happening with this group…

Music provided by the Parkrose High School Debonaires is a tradition at the Parkrose Business Association’s year-end event.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Members of the Parkrose Business Association (PBA) honored several of their own for their outstanding work and participation during 2008, celebrated at a holiday event, and were filled in on the state of their organization, at their December and January meetings.

This year, PBA members held their holiday event on December 13. As has been the tradition, the Parkrose High Debonairs serenaded members and guests during the no-host cocktail reception in the atrium of the Holiday Inn Airport.

No one went away hungry – diners agreed the food was delicious and plentiful.

Before they sat down for a gourmet buffet dinner in the Salon, members bid on a variety of services and items offered in a silent auction. The auction brought in a total of $1,314.

PBA Awards presented
Following the dinner, several members were presented with awards to recognize their service to the organization during the year.

LeeAnn Bruner of LA Signs accepts a special award from Marcia Lee, outgoing Parkrose Festival & Cruise-in chair.

Marsha Lee presents David Ableidinger of Parkrose hardware his own Festival trophy award.

After seven years of working with the Parkrose Cruise-in – and last year’s Festival – Marsha Lee announced that she was stepping down as the event’s chairperson.

Before she did so, Lee took time to honor two individuals who she said were “an integral part of the event for each of the seven years.”  First, LeeAnn Bruner of LA Signs was called forward, and then David Ableidinger of Parkrose Hardware.  Both were presented special awards.

President’s Awards
Next up was PBA’s outgoing president, Michael Taylor, who gave two special awards to members whom he said “stepped up and did even more than they were asked to” for the association and at their sponsored events.

2008 PBA President Michael Taylor of ACE Academy presents Terry Brier of Davey Organicare the President’s Award.

Michael Taylor presents Joe Dowd of Junk Away Hauling the President’s Award.

2008 Artie Johnson Award

Last year’s Artie Johnson Award winner, Marcia Lee, introduces the 2008 awardee, Wayne Stoll of Argay Square/Century Associates.

Marsha Lee stepped up and announced that Wayne Stoll, with Argay Square/Century Associates, would be named as the 2008 Artie Johnson Award winner. “The Artie Johnson Award symbolizes selfless dedication and a high level of dedication to the organization,” Lee said.

For the first time that many could recall, Stoll was speechless. Regaining his composure, he told the group that the lady for whom the award is named meant a great deal to him when he first joined the PBA, and until her passing.

“Wayne, this organization appreciates all that you do,” Lee said, “just as you appreciated those same qualities that you found in Artie.”

Karl Lind Award

Michael Taylor presents Rex Hollingsworth the 2008 Karl Lind Award.

As is the organization’s tradition, the 2008 Karl Lind Award was presented by the previous year’s recipient, Michael Taylor.

The Karl F. Lind Award is given to a member of the community who has given countless hours of volunteer time, is known for personal integrity, and has become an integral part of the Parkrose community.

Taylor called up Rex Hollingsworth, with Rex Heating and Air Conditioning, saying, “Rex has been a tremendous supporter in the Parkrose community. His contributions toward our foundation’s scholarships include sponsoring the Parkrose Festival, and the Cruise-in for many years – providing money, time, and energy, and helping out in so many ways.”

As Hollingsworth received his award, he announced that he would again be the Event Sponsor for the 2009 Parkrose Festival.  His wife, Debbie, won the 50/50 drawing, and proved to be as generous as her husband; she donated her winnings to the Parkrose Foundations Scholarship Program.

Outgoing PBA VP Michael Taylor gets the President’s Gavel award from past president, Mark Eves.

New PBA president named
PBA Past President Mark Eves, of Eves & Wade LLP, called up Michael Taylor. He reminded the group that 2008 started with Michael Taylor as the PBA’s Vice President, but he was asked to take on presidential duties soon after the year began.

“Mike, you’ve fulfilled the duties of the office of President most admirably. We thank you,” Eves said as he gave Taylor the Outgoing President’s Gavel award.

Michael Taylor welcomes the organization’s president for 2009, Wayne Stoll.

With that, Michael Taylor announced that Wayne Stoll would return as the PBA president for 2009.

“It is an honor to represent – and, honestly, to brag about – the PBA to City officials, and folks from other business associations,” Stoll said. “It’s an honor to follow in the footsteps of people like four-time PBA president Bob Brown. The fact that members stay, and are willing to be president more than one time, shows that there are some good vibes going on here.”

Introducing the 2009 PBA officers: President Wayne Stoll, Century Associates; VP David Walmer, Quality Inns & Suites; Secretary Mary Brown, Bob Brown Tires; and, Treasurer Marsha Lee, Copy Express.

Guests are welcome at the PBA
Come meet the members at their next meeting. It’s is on February 19 at 11:30 a.m. at their new location, Holiday Inn Airport, 8439 NE Columbia Boulevard (in the hotel building, around the back at the Flirt’s entrance – not the Convention Center next door). For more information, see their web site: www.parkrosebusiness.org.

© 2009 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News Service

With national restaurant chains coming and going, find out why families, sports clubs, and groups keep Pizza Baron going …

Here’s an update on what they’re doing about the aging Sellwood Bridge …

At the January 5 meeting, Multnomah County Commission Chair Ted Wheeler tells the CTF members, “You’ve spent 2½ years on this project. I convey my, and the Board of County Commissioners’ gratitude for the initiative you’ve undertaken. This is a very complicated project; one of the largest transportation projects currently being contemplated on the West Coast.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
After over two years of sometimes contentious meetings, studies, public testimony hearings, and several surveys, the twenty-member all-volunteer Sellwood Bridge Community Task Force (CTF) decided on a recommendation of a locally-preferred alternative for a new bridge’s alignment to present to project’s Policy Advisory Group in its meeting on Friday, February 6th.

The Policy Advisory Group, a blue-ribbon committee of regional public figures, is the panel officially charged with making the actual recommendation; the CTF decision is simply advice, and is not binding.

Many thought the CTF would make a decision after their three-hour meeting in the OMSI auditorium in January 5th, a session that drew only about 55 citizen observers. Because the task force simply narrowed the choice to two options, Alignment D and E at that time, it reconvened on January 19th at the same location to try to make a final selection.

Photos being held aloft are of individuals who wanted to “be heard” – or at least, seen.

Public comments on two alternatives
Both meetings began with time offered for people attending the meeting to share their concerns with the task force, and comment on the bridge project’s draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS). In the earlier meeting, a handful of citizens testified; two weeks later, more than 20 people asked to be heard.

There was little comment regarding technical bridge building issues. Instead, citizens explained why they favored one or the other of the two alternatives still on the table: “Alignment D” – rebuilding the bridge where it now stands – and “Alignment E”, which would build a new bridge to the north of the current structure.

No one on either side championed a bridge providing three or four lanes of vehicle traffic; instead all were asking for a “Skinny D” or Skinny E” alternative.

David Noble, the Executive Director of the River View Cemetery, says he’s concerned about the geological stability at the bridge’s current west side alignment.

‘D’ said to negatively impact condo owners
Many of those who testified on behalf of Alternative E were residents of Sellwood Harbor Condominiums – located just south of the east end of the bridge. They decried the fact that Alignment D would slice up to four units off two of their buildings to make way for the construction. Many residents commented that they now “couldn’t sell their unit if they wanted to”, due to uncertainty about the bridge project.

Condo resident John Holms noted “We all own an undivided interest in our development; removing units hurts us all. [Former Multnomah County Commissioner] Maria Rojo de Steffey told us she was not in favor of the current alignment.” Barbara Sloop added that she’s lived at Sellwood Harbor for 18 years and doesn’t want it to move. “People are important. I feel helpless.”

David Noble, the Executive Director of the River View Cemetery, said he was concerned about maintaining access to their grounds. “I’m concerned that the DEIS points out the instability of the west side, geologically. I don’t understand building a bridge in the same, unstable place it is now. Put the west end [further to the north] on stable ground.” The County proposes to stabilize the west end of a rebuilt bridge on the same spot with the use of a cofferdam.

More than 200 neighbors crowded into the OMSI auditorium to express their opinions about how – and where – to rebuild the Sellwood Bridge.

Neighborhood organizations rally to support Alternative D
Those who commented against Alignment E raised concerns that a northern alignment would negatively impact Oaks Pioneer Church and Sellwood Riverfront Park, and would impact more residential units and business properties than Alignment E.

In a letter to the CTF committee dated January 18, the Board of the Sellwood Moreland Improvement League (SMILE) unanimously endorsed Alignment D as the preferred option for the future Sellwood Bridge, citing protection of the Tacoma Main Street Plan. Further it stated, “… any replacement bridge [should] be a two-lane configuration.”

This letter also stated: “While the board sympathizes with the position of the owners of property potentially affected by option D, it should be noted that the need for a replacement for the bridge predates the construction of these properties and had been widely publicized, so that these impacts were a foreseeable event. ”

Eric Miller, with the Sellwood Playgroup Association, gives his public comment.

Absent citizens make their feelings known
At the January 19 CTF meeting, Eric Miller, with the Sellwood Playgroup Association, was the first to publicly testify.

“Many families who have small children who are unable to come to the task force meetings because of dinner and early bed times,” Miller began. “I’d like people to hold up their posters. These photos are of faces of people who could not make it here tonight.”

Around the sides and back of the room, photos of a hundred individuals – and one dog – went up. “They wanted to make their faces seen, their message heard. The message they are saying is ‘I support the current alignment, and, I do not support Alignment E’.” Individuals not holding photos held up yellow signs with the same message.

Many audience members testified silently by holding up signs supporting Alignment D.

After handing a document to CTF members, Miller continued, sympathizing with people who “live near the bridge” who he felt were suffering financially or from the stress of uncertainty. “And, there are also many, living in [the path of] the [proposed] northern alignment would also suffer. I think would be best for all of us not to delay; but to move at appropriate speed toward making necessary decisions.”

As applause and cheers broke out, CTF facilitator Elaine Cogan admonished the observers to be respectful of limited time allowed for the meeting.

Pat Hainley, the Treasurer of SMILE, the Sellwood-Moreland Improvement League neighborhood association, was up next, and echoed the sentiments expressed in their organization’s letter. “I’m a lifelong resident of Sellwood. Some of the people who serve on this [CTF] committee have expressed concern that the neighborhood hasn’t sufficiently expressed our desires to you,” he said as he looked at the sea of yellow signs still raised around the room.

Each for their own reasons, many more participants followed, expressing support for the “Skinny D” Alternative.

Although comments from proponents of both alignments were interspersed throughout the hour-long comment session, the overall tone of the comments was relatively cordial, except for an individual who testified, “People who want Alternative E are disingenuous. The needs of the many outweigh the needs of the few.” This remark was not kindly received by many people in the room.

As the public comment period ended, the crowd of as many as 200 people thinned out to about 70 and the committee began its deliberations. Committee members asked questions of staff experts and of one another.

Sellwood Bridge Community Task Force members vote by placing stickers on placards.

Voting by stickers
Cogan directed the attention of the group to four poster boards on easels and asked them to cast a “straw vote” for their preferences regarding the proposed bridge’s east and west side connections, cross section (width) and finally, alignment path.

After further discussion and a second vote:

• Task force members unanimously chose a traffic-signal-controlled intersection for the bridge’s westside connection, instead of a “roundabout”.
• At the eastside connection, the majority voted to recommend installing a bicycle/pedestrian traffic signal on S.E. Tacoma Street at S.E. 6th Ave. over a Grand Avenue extension, or else leaving it as it currently is.
• The majority of members first voted for Alignment “D”; this choice gained picked up more votes in the second round, and became the CTF’s recommended alignment.

In the end, the CTF did not decide whether to recommend the Sellwood Bridge on Alignment D be 64′ or 75′ wide. Both widths would provide bike lanes and pedestrian walkways. The narrower structure would provide two vehicle traffic lanes, the wider version could potentially accommodate three lanes for cars and trucks.

CTF facilitator Elaine Cogan tallies up the first round of voting.

Again, the locally-preferred alternative recommended by the Community Task Force is advisory only, and is not binding on the blue-ribbon “Policy Advisory Group” which now must deliberate the alternatives and make a final recommendation — which must then be adopted by Multnomah County, the City of Portland and Metro, before the Federal Highway Administration can issue final approval.

The Policy Advisory Group will meet at the Multnomah County Building, 501 S.E. Hawthorne Boulevard, on Friday, Friday, February 6th, at 3 pm in the County Boardroom. The meeting is slated to last two hours, and to allow some time for public comment.

Sellwood Bridge March on January 31
In the meantime, in advance of the PAG meeting, an independent group of Sellwood neighbors were planning a march on Saturday, January 31st, according to organizer Andrew Cohen. “We’re hoping that the voices of concerned Sellwood residents regarding safety, and supporting the current alignment, are heard,” he said after the meeting. Cohen confirmed that their group obtained permits for the march and for a 15-minute bridge closure.

The rally was slated to start at the Sellwood Community Center, S.E. Spokane Street at SE 15th, at 9:30 am that morning, after which the group was to march to the crest of the bridge and then back east to Sellwood Middle School, at S.E. Umatilla and 15th, for an information session.

© 2009 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Discover why Portland’s Police Chief selected these two officers and eight citizens to receive the bureau’s Commendation Medal …

Standing in front: Portland Police Bureau Chief Rosie Sizer and Sgt. John Anderson; behind them are Jack Menashe, Officer Greg Baldwin, Joe and Nick Rossi (accepting on behalf of their mother, Irene), Rex Hollingsworth, Bryan Ackerman, LeeAnn Bruner, Jeff Brooke, and Bud Bartunek, as they receive the Portland Police Bureau’s Commendation Medal.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
In a December, 200, article, we took you to the Spirit of Portland Awards, at which Portland Police Bureau (PPB) East Precinct Sgt. John Anderson and Officer Greg Baldwin were honored for helping to create a police substation in Parkrose. (CLICK HERE to read that article.)

These outer East Portland cops, along with nine citizens and the companies they represent, were given another accolade at the Police Bureau’s biannual award ceremony, held in the Horner Auditorium of the David Douglas Performing Arts Center on January 14.

Police Chief Rosie Sizer congratulated the recipients on stage, as retiring Public Information Officer Cathe Kent explained why the honorees were given this award.

“From August 2007 to January 2008, Portland Police Sergeant John Anderson and Officer Greg Baldwin spent countless hours after work and on their days off working to develop a community contact office in the Parkrose area of Portland.  In September 2007, a location directly off Sandy Boulevard was donated by Mrs. Irene Rossi of Rossi Family Farms for $1 per year,” Kent announced.

With awards in hand, proud Parkrose awardees return to their seats to enjoy the remainder of the ceremony.

Kent continued, “Due to the fact that there was no money to build the office, Sgt. Anderson and Officer Baldwin reached out to the Parkrose community who gladly rallied their resources, donated materials, and volunteered their time to assist with the completion of the project.”

Without the generosity of the following community businesses, Kent added, the project would not have become a reality:

• Parkrose Hardware,
• Rex Heating and Air Conditioning,
• Western Pacific Building Materials,
• Surface Flooring,
• LA Signs, and
• The International Union of Painters and Allied Trades Union Local #10.

For their dedication, generosity, commitment, and support to community policing, each of the honorees was awarded the Portland Police Bureau’s Commendation Medal.

© 2009 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Firefighters said the blaze started in the circuit breaker box. But what the fire investigator found on-site landed two of the home’s occupants in real hot water …

SE Woodstock Blvd. was blocked off for several hours, as firefighters put out a small house fire they say resulted from an electrical overload, and then police investigated a marijuana grow operation found in the basement.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
By all measures, the house fire at 6830 S.E. Woodstock Boulevard wasn’t much of a blaze.

Portland Fire & Rescue (PF&R) Station 25 Truck and Engine Company, based on S.E. 52nd, arrived with sirens wailing at 9:23 a.m. on January 16.

A half hour after the blaze was quenched, smoke is still coming from the house.

“We were originally were sent on the report of a power line down,” PF&R Battalion Chief 4 Scott Beyers said, while firefighters, their work quickly done, were wrapping up their hoses.

“A short time after our arrival, it was determined that we had a fire involving the house down in the basement area,” Beyers continued.

The battalion chief said firefighters reported that fire was in the area where the electrical service went into the house. “It appears that’s where it started, but investigators are in there now taking a look. Both of the home’s occupants are out, and there were no injuries.”

Firefighters pack up their gear after extinguishing the small fire.

While firefighters tote their gear out of the the house, a police officer talks this person, who appears to be the woman officials later identified as Tabitha French.

Electrical overload leads to investigation
As the firefighters were stowing their gear, we noticed a Portland Police Bureau officer talking with an individual said to be an occupant of the house. When we drove by later that afternoon, officers from the bureau’s Drug & Vice Division were also visiting the modest Woodstock neighborhood home.

The official PF&R report made law enforcement’s interest clear: “Found … a fire in the basement of the house. A grow operation was found in the basement.”

The report continued, “A Marijuana grow operation was being conducted in two rooms. A third room was in the process of having grow lights and ventilation system wired in. Fire patterns and damage seen indicated the fire originated at the main breaker branch panel. Overload and arcing noted.”

Police say these two women, Tabitha Rose French (left) and Rachael Marie Belknap (right) face charges stemming from the marijuana grow operation found in the house.

Two charged in pot growing operation
Although investigators estimate the building and content loss were only about $25,000, the impact of the fire on two of the home’s occupants may be more far-reaching.

Portland Police Bureau spokesman Sgt. Brian Schmautz checked the records, and told us that two 27-year-old women, Tabitha Rose French and Rachael Marie Belknap, were taken into custody. “They are both charged with Manufacturing, Possession and Distribution of Marijuana.”

© 2009 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

If your idea of “art-in-the-open” differs from what’s thrown up by taggers, read this, and find out what you can do before – and after – your property is marked …

The City of Portland’s anti-graffiti guru, Marcia Dennis, tells why it’s important to remove markings as soon as possible – after you snap a photo.

Story by Watford Reed and David F. Ashton; David F. Ashton photos
If you wake up some morning and find your fence, wall, business establishment, or car is covered with grotesque caricatures or writing or just plain vandalism, you are not alone.

So said Marcia Dennis, coordinator of Portland’s struggle against graffiti, when she spoke to members of the Gateway Area Business Association at Midway Library on January 8.

“Two steps are needed to fight graffiti and its perpetrators,” she said, “take a picture of the mess, and then get rid of it.”

Dennis said that graffiti, by legal definition, is a crime of vandalism, pointing to ORS 164.383 and Portland City Code 14B.80. “It is the unauthorized application of markings on someone else’s property, that is, without the owner’s permission.”

Not child’s play
“Tagger” graffiti is the most prevalent type in Portland. “80-85% of all graffiti in Portland fits this description,” Dennis told the group. “It may be simple line-letters, or elaborate colorful designs, ‘pieces’ or ‘throw-ups’.”

Surprisingly, Dennis said most of the taggers arrested in Portland are not juveniles, as one might suspect. “Their median age is 20.” She added that taggers often travel or associate with a “crew”, whose members may all use the same signature, or “tag”,  plus their own “moniker”, and who hang out together.

A small percentage of graffiti is done by gangs who mark out their territory, Dennis says.

Gangs mark turf
Gang graffiti is growing in Portland, Dennis went on. “Citywide, it accounts for 13-15% of all graffiti-vandalism. In some neighborhoods, it is a much higher percentage of the graffiti.”

Gang graffiti is the way gang members communicate with each other. Most of the gang graffiti currently seen in Portland is done by Hispanic or Latino/Latina gang members, or “wanna-be’s”. Dennis added that a growing number of gang-vandals are young females. And a growing number of individuals arrested for marking gang graffiti, she added, have been juveniles.

Report – Document – Remove
“Leaving graffiti up invites more such activity in the area,” Dennis explained. But, before it is painted or scrubbed off, she asked that citizens follow the three-step plan of reporting, documenting, and then removing.

Report graffiti by contacting:

• Portland Police Graffiti Hotline – 503-823-4824
• Police Non-Emergency – 503-823-3333 (weekends or Holidays)
• If you witness it occurring, call 9-1-1
• Online – www.portlandonline.com/oni – and select “Report a graffiti problem”

Take Photos and send to Graffiti Abatement:

• Digital photos (no larger than 1 MB, please) to:  mdennis@ci.portland.or.us
• Hard copies, or Photo CDs, by mail to: 1221 SW 4th Avenue, Room 110, Portland, OR 97204

Remove it:

• If it’s on your own property, paint it out, or check out a removal kit with solvent from one of nine Portland Fire & Rescue, namely – 3, 8, 13, 14, 18, 23, 25, 40 and 31. The kits contain solvent to be used to ‘wipe-off’ most kinds of graffiti.
• If you need free assistance, call 503-823-5860 to put in a request, if yours is owner-occupied residential property, non-profit, or small business location.
• Volunteer to remove from properties in the right-of-way: Go to the “Report a graffiti problem” webpage at www.portlandonline.com/oni ‘report a graffiti, and see sign-up sheets, and other information about volunteering to remove graffiti.
• Chronic locations – for your own property, contact your neighborhood Crime Prevention Coordinator for free assistance in ‘target-hardening’ techniques, i.e., tips to make your property more secure and less vulnerable to graffiti and other vandalism.

“When it comes to street signs, ‘stop’ signs, and other highway signage, please don’t clean them, report them,” urged Dennis. “That’s because most heavy-duty cleaning agents will strip the paint off these signs, damaging them further.”

Preventing graffiti
The best way to prevent graffiti is “don’t provide an inviting ‘canvas’ for taggers,” Dennis said. Covering walls with ivy, putting bushes with thorns at the base of walls, preventing taggers from climbing on buildings and keeping areas well-lit are all ways of making graffiti artists move on to a more inviting property.

Outgoing GABA president Alan Sanchez gets the coveted Rubber Chicken Award from board member, and the meeting’s host, Lee Powell of Farmer’s Insurance.

Meet the members
If you have a business, do business, or live in the Gateway area, come check out this organization. They meet the second Thursday of the month (February 12); networking starts at 11:30 AM. The meetings convene at Midland Library, 805 S.E. 122nd Ave. For more information, go to www.gabanet.com.

© 2009 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Officials aren’t talking about the circumstances, but some
speculate the elderly man suffers from dementia …

The report of a double shooting – and a victim inside a home – bring a substantial police response to this Woodstock neighborhood.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Many neighbors along SE 42nd Avenue, in the Creston-Kenilworth neighborhood just a few blocks north of former Mayor Tom Potter’s residence, were surprised by a massive police response as patrol cars converged at the corner of SE Cora Street before 8:00 a.m. on January 16.

In the driveway of the modest home, snuggled into the hillside on the northeast corner of the intersection, officers found 49-year-old Mark Myers with a gunshot wound to the stomach. He told police he was shot by his adoptive father, 92-year-old John Wesley Myers.

Officers measure and check over the crime scene, marked out by red tape.

Traffic was halted throughout the morning while detectives examine the crime scene.

Special Emergency Reaction Team officers were activated, because officers learned that a second victim was still inside the home, along with her 12-year-old son and the suspect.

“After loud-hailing, the suspect he did come out and talk with officers,” said police spokesman Sgt. Brian Schmautz at the scene. A neighbor said the elderly Myers looked unsteady as he stood in his bathrobe talking to officers and later walked away with them.

“Officers entered the residence and found a second victim who appeared to have a very serious wound, shot in the head,” Schmautz reported. “A Rottweiler dog was standing guard on the couch, as if protecting a female gunshot victim.”

Because the dog wouldn’t budge, and victim, identified as 43-year-old Kim Macintosh, appeared “gravely injured”, Schmautz said an officer made the decision to shoot the dog. Both gunshot victims were transported to Oregon Health Sciences University Hospital where Myers now in serious condition.

Kim Macintosh died a week later, on January 23, from injuries she sustained in the shooting.

In the driveway, marked off by red police tape, officers found one of the victims suffering from a chest gunshot wound.

The two shooting victims are the adopted children of John Myers, and the victims are brother and sister, police detectives said. Neighbors suggested that Macintosh was acting as the primary caregiver for the elderly Myers.

Detectives processing the crime scene had not determined a motive for the crime as of the time we spoke with Schmautz. “John Myers has been charged with two counts of Attempted Murder, and was lodged into the Justice Center Jail.” He was arraigned on January 20, but did not enter a plea, pending an evaluation.

Police arrested this man, John Wesley Myers, on two counts of Attempted Murder.

Relatives reportedly said John Myers had several shotguns in his home because he was an ardent bird hunter. Further, Mackintosh told them she believed that when her dad began showing symptoms of mental instability, she’d removed the ammunition from the home.

Mackintosh’s son, age 12, described as severely autistic, was found hiding in the home when police searched the house; he has been placed in temporary foster care.

Anyone with information is asked to call Detective Molly Dahl at (503) 823-0991 or Detective Rico Beniga at (503) 823-0692.

Sgt. Brian Schmautz talks with reporters about the double shooting after the victims were transported to OHSU for medical care.

© 2009 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Officials don’t know why this suspected gang member allegedly whipped out his pistol and started shooting at the AM/PM Mini-Mart on SE Holgate Boulevard. But, find out what police did about it – and what steps they’re taking to halt gang violence …

After unsuccessfully negotiating the purchase of a cigar at this ARCO AM/PM Mini-market, witnesses say the shooter headed north [toward the camera] and opened fire at a vehicle parked in an auto repair shop’s driveway.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Even the sound of a truck backfiring makes folks throughout outer East Portland duck for cover, as gang member gunplay increases.

On January 14 – this time, in the Lents area – gunfire broke out, as a suspected gang member opened fire at the intersection of SE Holgate Boulevard and SE 92nd Avenue.

“The suspect had gone into the market,” Portland Police Bureau spokesman Sgt. Brian Schmautz told us. “When he came out of the market, it appears as if shots were fired. Because of the close proximity to the store, there is surveillance video of the crime occurring.”

Shooting shatters innocent’s window
According to the office manager at R-Boes Automotive repair shop across Holgate from the AM/PM market, a car pulled into their lot around 2:15 p.m. “The car just sat there. Then we heard gunshots, and saw a man running toward us (north) shooting at the car; maybe a half-dozen shots.”

Apparently the gunman’s aim wasn’t good; his target vehicle escaped without damage, she said.

However, a Lexus SUV driven by Maria Swearingen – she was heading westbound on SE Holgate Boulevard, approaching the 92nd Avenue intersection – was hit by at least two bullets that shattered the vehicle’s rear window. “She wasn’t involved in any way with the suspect or his intended target,” Schmautz noted. “She was caught in the cross-fire.”

Traffic along SE 92nd Ave, along Lents Park, was shut down for the afternoon and most of the evening until police convinced the suspect to surrender.

Vigilant citizens finger suspect
“Our mechanics saw the shooting and took off after the guy,” R-Boes’ office manager told us. One hopped into his car to follow [the shooter], and the other ran after him on foot as he ran [east on Holgate then south] on the trail along the freeway. [The mechanics] told police which house he went into.”

The description the mechanics gave the police, and surveillance video footage from the AM/PM market, helped police quickly identify the subject who witnesses said ran into a residence on SE Pardee Street, just a block east of from Lents Park.

Police block off SE Pardee St., just east of SE 92nd Avenue across from Lents Park, where they believe the suspected gangster gunman who shot up an innocent driver’s car is holed up.

Subject unwilling to give up
We asked Schmautz why the Special Emergency Reaction Team (SERT) was called out to the scene.

“At first, the suspect was being loud-hailed by officers,” replied Schmautz. “He didn’t respond to any of the loud-hails. We think the presence of additional equipment and the SERT officers coming into the area got him to change his mind, after he understand that the police were not leaving until he surrendered.”

Finally the suspect, identified as 22-year-old Anthony Dwaine Bell, gave up and came out without further incident.

Finally, the suspect, identified as 22-year-old Anthony Dwaine Bell, gave up without further incident.

SE 92nd Avenue remained closed into the evening hours, as detectives and members of the Gang Enforcement Unit obtained a search warrant.

The following day, we learned that Bell was charged with one count of Attempted Aggravated Murder, two counts of Attempted Aggravated Murder, and one count of Felon in Possession of a Firearm. “Investigators believe that there is a direct connection between this incident and recent shootings in both Portland [during a funeral service] and [New Year’s Eve shootings in] Gresham,” Schmautz added.

Commissioner of Police, Portland City Commissioner Dan Saltzman announces “Operation Cool Down” – his plan to crack down on gang violence.

Commissioner calls for a ‘Gang Cool-down’
In response to the upswing of gang violence, Portland City Commissioner Dan Saltzman, now in charge of the Police Bureau, announced a mission called “Operation Cool Down” to “focus resources and enforcement on individuals and neighborhoods affected by gang violence”.

At a press conference at Portland City Hall on January 16, Saltzman presented plans to coordinate efforts of the Portland Police Bureau, Gresham Police Department, Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office, and the United State Attorney’s Office.

Increasing the contact among gang members and police officers will help reduce gang violence, says Portland Police Bureau chief Rosie Sizer. She’s flanked by City of Gresham Mayor Shane T. Bemis and Commissioner Saltzman.

The Portland Police Bureau’s Chief Rosie Sizer said that police efforts in recent years have reduced gang activity. “As it was reduced, there was less of a day-to-day contact between patrol officers and gang members.  That is no longer going to be the case.”

Each police precinct, including East Precinct, she added, will put on officers who can identify gang activity initially. “Then, through in-service training over the next few months, gang unit officers and members of the HotSpot Action Team will teach street officers how to identify gang members, where they’re active, and whether that they may be carrying guns. The overall organizational capacity is going to be enhanced.”

Portland Police Bureau East Precinct Commander Michael Crebs listens to the presentation at City Hall before explaining how the two-officer patrol plan has already resulted in arrests.

Two-officer cars target gangsters
After the press conference, we asked Portland Police Bureau East Precinct Commander Michael Crebs to strip away the political rhetoric, and explain how this plan will be executed.

“I’ve told all of my lieutenants on all three shifts to send out as many two-person cars out as possible,” Crebs told us in the Portland City Hall chambers. “The job of these two-person cars is to be looking for potential gang activity and known gang members.”

When officers double up, Crebs explained, they can stop and approach individuals immediately without having to call – and wait – for a backup officer to arrive on scene.

“Officers are looking for specific behaviors, not individuals,” Crebs said. “We want officers to start engaging people and talking to them.”

Plan pays off immediately
“Last night, officers in a two-person patrol car saw a vehicle commit a traffic violation and pulled them over,” the commander said. “In the course of the stop, they ended up recovering two guns and arresting three gang-associated gang individuals. This is just the first step, but it’s an important one.”

© 2009 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Dreaming of motor boating to this Willamette River isle – to take family and friends for a delightful picnic ashore? Forget it! Find out why, before, during, and after restoration you can look at – but not touch – this City-owned 45-acre paradise …

David McAllister of Portland Parks & Recreation points out the Holgate Channel where they hope to create a “No Wake” zone.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
More than a year after Robert B. Pamplin Jr., owner of Ross Island Sand & Gravel Company and Community Newspapers, Inc., donated a 44.83 acres parcel of land on the north end of Ross Island to the City of Portland, plans for managing the property were announced in a Portland Parks & Recreation board meeting – held, of all places, on the west side in Multnomah Village.

PP&R’s David McAllister talked about the progress they were making – and some of the challenges they face – in developing a Ross Island Management Plan.

City owns land, but not shoreline
McAllister noted that the donated land parcel excludes the shoreline on the east side of the island, along the Holgate Channel, facing Inner Southeast Portland. “Another 15 acres of island land in the area is to be negotiated in good faith in the future, but there’s no guarantee.”

The northern tip of the island is owned by the Port of Portland. Ross Island Sand & Gravel owns a southern portion, and the waters inside the lagoon are owned by the State of Oregon, and are open for public use.

Endowment helps restoration
Along with the donation agreement, Pamplin included a $100,000 endowment to help with the city’s efforts to complete major wildland reclamation work by 2013. The endowment also passes the obligation to meet the reclamation requirement on to the City of Portland.

“We’ve done a vegetation survey of the property,” McAllister said. “It is in severely degraded condition, and overrun with invasive species. In spite of its condition, it is being used by nesting birds.”

Dredge mining was discontinued in 2000, and an objective of the reclamation plan is to improve endangered species’ fish habitat, explained McAllister. “Fish can spend some time in the lagoon before they out-migrate.”

McAllister explains the bureau’s efforts to create a Ross Island Management Plan to the PP&R board members.

Four commitments outlined
The Parks official said they’ve developed four main commitments in the Ross Island Management Plan:

• Develop a habitat plan for City-owned property;
• Manage the island property as a natural area;
• Control the invasive species and restore habitat in the island; and
• Manage the habitat.

“We have no other total-water access parks,” McAllister mentioned. “The Parks Bureau didn’t own a boat; we had to buy one.”

Look, but don’t touch
If you’ve dreamed of motor boating to Ross Island to enjoying a picnic lunch, with the Portland skyline as your backdrop – this will never become a reality, we learned.

“A restriction [in the plan] is NO public use,” stated McAllister. “We want people to love the island, but not ‘love it to death’. But we are looking at ways of providing information access, in a limited way, for environmental education.”

This past October, the Parks Bureau started developing an agreement with the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office to enforce the policy of keeping citizens from coming ashore on this City park. “We’re developing signs, to let people know it’s off limits.”

Motor boats to be banned
“We’re also working on a ‘No Wake’ proposal,” McAllister continued. “We want to reduce all of the high power watercraft in the Holgate Channel. This will reduce wildlife disturbance and soil erosion, and provide a pleasant place for people to recreate.”

In addition to the “No Wake” demarcation, the bureau hopes to enlist the aid of groups like Willamette Riverkeepers and the Portland Audubon Society to propose a ban of ALL motorized watercraft in the lagoon to the Oregon State Marine Board. Citizens will be allowed to “experience the lagoon” in a kayak or rowboat.

This map shows the portion of Ross Island now owned by the City of Portland that you may view – from shore – but not touch.

Short term steps
“We’re using the endowment to work with the Bureau of Environmental Services on a re-vegetation plan,” McAllister explained. “First, we’ll remove the invasive species. After a couple of years, we’ll replant the area with native plants, then make sure they take hold.”

The next step, he said, is to develop a management plan. “The plan will be created with pubic involvement, and will emphasize the visual nature of the island,” said McAllister. “We will develop was of providing access, but not like people may think. We will encourage participation, but without actually being on the site.”

© 2009 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

See why police detectives say that stealing a few bucks, under false pretences, really is more than a petty crime. Perhaps YOU can help …

Portland Police Bureau Southeast Precinct Detective Dan Andrew shows a “donation sheet” signed by victims of the suspect’s door-to-door solicitation fraud.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
One might think that door-to-door solicitors asking for donations for non-existent causes constitute a pretty inconsequential scam. But, a Portland Police Bureau detective, building a case against one of these scam artists, said there is more to such a criminal enterprise than simply cheating citizens out of a few dollars on a false pretext.

Just after noon on December 28th, Eastmoreland neighbors called police when they suspected that band of door-to-door solicitors were fakes.

“Neighbors on SE Glenwood Street [in Eastmoreland] said three suspicious subjects were going door-to- door attempting to collect money for the Grant High School basketball program,” reported police spokesperson Officer Catherine Kent.

“They told officers that the suspects could not answer questions about the program, and appeared older than high school age,” continued Kent. “Officers arrived in the area and located a suspect in the area of SE 32nd Avenue and SE Tolman Street who matched the description they were given.”

Suspect is known to detectives
Although his accomplices were not located or identified, officers arrested 19-year-old Antone Marquece Foster, and charged him with Theft by Deception after he was identified by the victims, according to Kent.

“This isn’t his first time,” Portland Police Bureau Southeast Precinct Detective Dan Andrew told us. “Foster was arrested and charged for Theft in March, 2008, when he was canvassing neighborhoods in NE Portland, soliciting money for an AAU basketball tournament. He was arrested again in September of 2007 for soliciting funds in North Portland for the Jefferson High School basketball program. He wasn’t affiliated with any of these schools.”

Pot in his pocket
When he was arrested this time, Andrew said, Foster had $89 in his possession. “He also had three baggies of marijuana. So, if people believe that they were giving him money for a good cause, perhaps this money was simply used to supply himself and his crew with marijuana. We don’t think this is a good cause.”

The detective said fake solicitors tend to deter people from donating to legitimate charities. “They are selfish people who are denying other people the ability to receive charitable donations because neighbors have given to them, and because of their bad experience, may not then give to legitimate organizations.”

Prelude to other crimes
While not accusing Foster of other crimes, Detective Andrew said that this individual, on other occasions, printed fake “donation sheets” on which he collected information from unsuspecting neighbors – including personal information. “This could be used for identity fraud.”

Further, as with other scamming solicitors, these visits might have been a prelude to burglary. “It’s an easy way – a semi-legitimate-appearing way – for a criminal to case a house,” noted Andrew. “If no one is home, the residence might become a burglary target. Or, during warm weather, they may come in the screen door and grab a laptop computer or purse. They are specifically looking for ‘crimes of opportunity’.”

Help stop fake solicitors
Andrew advises not to give money to door-to-door solicitors. “Really think about someone who is at your door asking for a donation. If you give to a fraudulent solicitor, in a sense you’re helping to enable and perpetuate their criminal activity. It’s easy to check out legitimate charities using the Internet.”

If your area has an active Neighborhood Watch program, Andrew added, let your neighbors know you think a scam artist is working your street. “Get the best description you can of the person. Come out and see if there is a vehicle associated with the solicitors – and get the license plate. Don’t be afraid to walk out to the end of your walkway to see where he is going. If they see you’re paying such close of attention, though, they’ll probably move on. Then, call and report it to our non-emergency number, (503) 823-3333.”

Police say they suspect that this man, Antone Marquece Foster, keeps fleecing unwitting neighbors, and officers need the help of victims to make the theft charges stick. Foster was arrested in Eastmoreland, after neighbors suspected he was a fake and reported it.

Asks victims to come forward
Many victims give because they want to help the cause, reported Andrew. Others give because they are afraid of “brick through the window” retaliation. Nevertheless, the frauds add up to good money. A scam artist can take in $150 within an hour or two.

Andrew said that scam artists get more confident over time. Because scammers collected only a dollar here, or five dollars there, they figure they won’t get prosecuted, because people who’ve been cheated will not follow through with the charges.

“Right now, we’re ‘up to here’ with this kind of behavior,” affirmed Andrew. “We want to see that these people are prosecuted, but we need victims to come forward – even if they were only taken for a couple of dollars.”

If believe you’ve been a victim, call Detective Dan Andrew at (503) 823-5031.

© 2009 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News