Why this illegal-alien drug-runner thought hiding pounds of pills in a baby diaper was a good idea is beyond us!  But take a look at the stash sharp-eyed Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office deputies found right here in outer East Portland …

MCSO Special Investigations Unit deputies say the baby diaper didn’t keep them from finding the two pounds of ecstasy pills. MCSO photo

Story by David F. Ashton
About 2:00 p.m., a blue Chevy Tahoe with California plates was headed northbound on I-205 on October 8. What happened soon thereafter will bring tears of sadness to rave-goers throughout the region.

Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office (MSCO) spokesman Dep. Paul McRedmond said the driver wasn’t on a sight-seeing trip as he passed through town – he was on a delivery mission. “MCSO Special Investigations Unit, following a drug trafficking investigation, made a traffic stop,” stated McRedmond.

The Tahoe’s driver gave deputies permission to search his truck. “They found a specially-altered center console compartment,” related McRedmond. “Inside was about 4,000 pills of the illegal drug called ‘ecstasy’ wrapped in a diaper.”

Officials say that not only was 21-year-old Alonso Ramirez-Sanchez, in the country illegally, he was carried more than two pounds of ecstasy. MCSO photo

Ramirez-Sanchez was booked into the county jail on three felony drug charges related to his alleged possession and distribution of ecstasy (MDMA). He is also on an “immigration hold” for INS action

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

While all students from three Parkrose schools were eligible for the Masons’ Summer Reading Program, find out how many how many did – and what they won …

Dale Imbleau, Worshipful Master of Eastgate Lodge #155, Ancient Free and Accepted Masons and Christos Efthimiadis, Worshipful Master of Parkrose Masonic Lodge, begins the Summer Reading Awards program.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Eastgate and Parkrose Masonic Lodges celebrated youngsters who had participated in their Summer Reading program on September 25.

“This year, we expanded the program to include three Parkrose elementary schools: Prescott, Shaver, and Sacramento,” explained Dale Imbleau, Worshipful Master, Eastgate Lodge #155 Ancient Free and Accepted Masons.

Students who qualified for the drawing from Prescott Elementary School await their certificates – and to learn if one of their names was drawn to win one of the new bicycles.

Over the summer, Imbleau, said, young students were required to read 15 books – at their grade level – to qualify for a drawing for a free bicycle. “About 50 students took us up on our offer, and qualified for the drawing,” he told us, “and we have a dozen bicycles to give away tonight.”

Asked why the Masons host a reading program, Imbleau told us, “One of the tenets of Free Masonry is that we have is free thought. By encouraging children to read, we encourage them to become better-educated, and more active in their communities. In short, we equip them to be better citizens.”

Prescott Elementary School student Jack Ramirez draws names out the hat held by Christos Efthimiadis – Worshipful Master of Parkrose Masonic Lodge.

Short program features drawing
Christos Efthimiadis, Worshipful Master of Parkrose Masonic Lodge ,welcomed teachers, parents, and a room full of expectant students to their meeting. “This is our second year at Sacramento School, and we are glad that we can include Prescott and Shaver this year as well,” Efthimiadis announced.

“It is very exciting for us to reward the children. It is our honor to be able to reach out and encourage young readers, and bring them here for the special evening. It’s good that you’ve read books. It’s very important that you continue to do that.”

In addition to the brand-new bicycle, the winners also were given a bicycle safely helmet. Efthimiadis advised them, “Be sure to wear it and stay safe.”

Each child who qualified for the drawing received a Certificate of Participation. With that, the drawing began.

Parkrose Lodge’s Past Master James Akers presents lucky summer reader Mckenna Galyon with her brand-new bicycle.

Summer Reading Program Honor Roll

Prescott Elementary School

• Sonja Keller Young
• Caleb Martindale
• Lamberto Lavadores Villacis
• Steve Mendoza Ruiz
• Luis Soto
• Jason Gutierrez
• Christian Ponce Zuniga
• Daniel Senina
• Ivan Senina
• Bill Truong
• Jamari Gilbert
• Henry Mendoza
• Alan Lavadores Villacis
• Marlene Hernandez
• Karina Patel
• Tabitha Klein
• Nicolay Senina
• Kinsey Martindale
• Maria Than
• Michaela Bersine
• Alina Ursatiy
• Chelsea Lopez Cabrera
• Cherry Mendoza Ruiz
• Kaitlyn Cha
• Elizabeth Escobar
• Tamika Perret
• Shelbie Dunn
• Kelly Cha
• Candy Mendoza Ruiz

Sacramento Elementary School

• Jonathan Almasan
• Kayley Le
• Gabe Sieber
• Margot Amdal
• Yudie Lewis
• Benjamin Almasan
• Dmitriy Rogozhnikov
• Leia Braich
• Moses Ramirez-Torres
• Rikka Gustey
• Cassidy Calyon
• Alexus Torres
• Tyler Minden
• Buno Vongsay

Shaver Elementary School

• Rene Cervantes
• Maryangela Cervantes
• Erick Olvera Duran
• Belen Liliana
• Zemar Smith
• Minh Le
• Nguyen Le
• Ediberto Marvin

“Next year, we hope to encourage even more students to read over the summer months,” Imbleau said. “And, give away more bicycles.”

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

You’ve read here how the aquifer located under outer East Portland near the Columbia Slough provides our back-up source of drinking water. See how this event promotes keeping it clean …

Pirates? Actually, they’re Portland Water Bureau education specialists Jody Burlin, Rebecca Geisen and Briggy Thomas – seen here during their “Aquifer Adventure” event near the Columbia Slough.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
One way the Portland Water Bureau (PWB) helps educate outer East Portland neighbors about the importance of caring for the aquifer – the underground water table near the Columbia Slough that provides our back-up source of drinking water – is by offering lunchtime informational programs. (CLICK HERE to read our article about such an event held during the summer.)

But a couple of weeks ago, the PWB, in conjunction with the Columbia Slough Watershed Council, held their annual family event to express the importance of keeping this natural water resource clean and viable.

Showing off an event commemorative T-shirt is shirt Melanie Hering, a volunteer from Grant High School.

Nora Polk holds her little pirate Makeda. “Our kids love pirates; and we love nature,” says Polk. “So, we’re interested in learning more about groundwater – and enjoying a canoe ride.”

Pirates of the Slough
“We’re engaging young people in activities that teach them about groundwater,” said First Mate Rebecca Geisen – actually, she’s PWB’s Water Resources Program Manager. “We’re helping them learn what aquifers are, and showing them what they can do at home to protect their drinking water.”

The Aquifer Adventure has a pirate’s treasure hunt theme, she told us.  “We find that kids love treasure hunts – and everyone likes pirate-themed events.  We consider our groundwater to be a ‘hidden treasure’. Thus, we came up with our annual Aquifer Adventure program.”

Pirate Kelly Ray (Mulholland), PWB Maintenance & Construction Director fights gallantly – but gracefully acknowledges that he is out-fenced by young swashbuckler, Eli Holstein.

Mixing fun with learning
Some of the demonstrations – like having kids race around a track, carrying gallon jugs of water to help them get an idea of how much water they use taking a 10-minute shower – taught water conservation lessons.

“We’ve added an event for the grownups this year,” Geisen told us. “We’re showing them how they can easily make non-toxic household cleaners. This both saves them money, and helps save our environment.”

About 30 volunteers helped out at six educational stations, including giving canoe rides on the Columbia Slough.

How much water does one use during a 5 minute shower? To illustrate the answer, Ayriahna Bauer learns by carrying these gallon jugs around the track, ten times.

Preserving a Portland water source
The event took place just east of the Columbia South Shore Well Field off NE Airport Way near the bureau’s canoe launch. This well field is metropolitan Portland’s secondary source of sanitary drinking water. (See our story about this system by CLICKING HERE.)  Groundwater in the area supplies these wells, Geisen explained, and the well field can serve up to 800,000 people if service from the Bull Run Reservoir is disrupted.

While the major risk of polluted groundwater comes from area companies that use hazardous materials, Geisen said neighbors also need to be aware of the below-ground water resource.

“Potential pollutants poured on the ground can reach and negatively affect the aquifer,” expounded Geisen. “There are parts of our aquifer that aren’t as deep or don’t have confining layers over them. We’re encouraging people to act responsibly and protect the groundwater.”

Kari Salis, Drinking Water Engineer with Oregon Drinking Program making an “Editable Aquifer” in a glass with breakfast cereal, ice cream and soda.

Do your part
We asked what steps neighbors can take to help protect our groundwater.

“Properly disposing of household hazardous waste through the Metro Hazardous Waste Roundup is one method,” replied Geisen. “Don’t pour chemicals or fertilizers down the drain or the storm drain; don’t let motor oil to seep into the ground. When you clean painting equipment, properly dispose of the latex-paint tainted water or paint thinner – instead of dumping it on the ground.”

Finally, she added that it is helpful for neighbors to reduce their use of lawn chemicals, such as fertilizers. “Most people over-fertilize. If you want plants and boshes, consider planting native greener.”

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

What have East Portland Chamber of Commerce members been up to these days? Take a look, right here …

New East Portland Chamber of Commerce member Jerry Chinn, Chinn & Associates, and Steve Messinetti with Portland Habitat for Humanity enjoy a relaxing evening a “Chamber after Hours” event hosted by Judith Huck at Classique Floors.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
In addition to the Wednesday morning “Good Morning East Portland” networking events held at various locations, members and guests of the East Portland Chamber of Commerce (EPCC) also gather to celebrate both established businesses and new services in the area.

For example, in late September, EPCC members attended a “Chamber after Hours” hosted by Judith Huck of Classique Floors located on outer SE Stark St.

Chamber co-founder speaks
Years ago, Huck was one of a handful of outer East Portland business people who founded EPCC.

“The reason I helped found EPCC is that East Portland is underrepresented in the greater Portland business community,” Huck told us. “Businesses here really need to band together to have a strong voice with the city and county – to stick up for the citizens and businesses in East Portland. The Chamber helps us be heard at City Hall.”

Delightful refreshments, served in the tastefully-decorated showroom of Classique Floors, makes for a great evening networking event.

‘Best little floor store in town’
“This is a fun event event for us because it brings folks in to see all of our wonderful products and gives them the opportunity to meet our great staff,” Huck said.

Classique floors is a local, woman-owned business serving in entire Portland area for 31 years, stated Huck. “We call it ‘The best little floor store in town’.”

In addition to stocking quality floor and counter covering products, the business also provides interior designers who help customers make appropriate selections, she said. “We have professional estimators who go on location, take measurements, and provide free estimates. But what really sets us apart from other stores is our fantastic staff of professional installers. All of our installations are guaranteed for life.”

About their product line, Huck said they offer floor coverings of all kinds: carpet, vinyl, ceramic tile, hardwood laminate floors, cork and rubber floors. They also provide and install countertop tile, stone and laminate countertops.

Proud to serve her community
“As a growing, thriving business,” Huck added, “we take pleasure in serving our community. We’re very involved with Habitat for Humanity and Snow-Cap Charities. We feel that it’s important to be part of our community.”

You can learn more by visiting their website: CLICK HERE.

Chamber members welcome new services and facilities

EPCC members Richard Kiely of Home Run Graphics, Rich Sorem of Stewart & Tunno Insurance (and Chamber president) and Ed Bejarana of Zenith Exhibits helps Willie Hall with Ride Connection (about to cut the ribbon) inaugurate their expanded service to residents in outer East Portland on September 25.

Liz Eslinger with SE Works, Margo Marver of Marver Shiatsu and Reflexology, Chamber VP Pam Olson, Farmer’s Insurance Agent and board member Norm Rice, Realtor with First Class Properties are on hand as a new building at Warner Pacific College is dedicated on September 27.

In addition to lobbying City Hall to make sure East Portland business owners are fairly represented, chamber members also help their community by facilitating ribbon cotton ceremonies and other events that welcome new businesses and services to the area.

To find out more about the organization, check their new website by CLICKING HERE!

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Find out how – and why – these neighbors created a new
event that ties together Parkrose’s past and present …

Enlivening the new “Celebrating the Gifts of Parkrose Together” event are the 71st Ave. Ramblers, playing a toe-tapping mix of old-time string band and traditional music.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
In an effort to strengthen inner-community relationships, a group of neighbors put on a unique event on September 20 called, “Celebrating the Gifts of Parkrose Together”.

“The goal of this event is to bring generations together, as well as bring the community together,” explained Mike Vander Veen, East Portland Neighborhood Organization (EPNO) community resource worker and co-organizer of the event. “The idea is to focus on creating an event where people have an opportunity to give what they have to offer.”

Vander Veen said that Bonny McKnight, Co-Chair of the Russell neighborhood Association, started the ball rolling by approaching Rev. Brian Heron of the Eastminster Church about partnering on a couple of events.

In the social hall, co-sponsor Rev. Brian Heron (in the red shirt), from Eastminster Church, welcomes visitors.

Many activities illustrate historical connections
The social hall and courtyard of the church, located on NE Halsey Street just east of NE 122nd Avnue., contained displays and exhibits under a canopy – and music.

One neighbor was demonstrating the finer points of jam-making. At another table, Jerome Harden and his friends were cranking out fresh ice cream the old-fashioned way. “It’s important that people know about the craft of homemade ice cream because, well, it’s the best stuff!” Harden told us.

Inside the Eastminster social hall, neighbors set up historical exhibits that depicted the history of the greater Parkrose area; others showed off their collections of mugs, dolls, and hand-done carving.

Bonny McKnight, Co-Chair of the Russell Neighborhood Association, greets guests at the event’s welcome table.

Event co-organizer Mike Vander Veen is amazed to see that all of the playing cards held in master magician (and local resident) Tim Alexander’s hand have suddenly – gone blank!

Restoring a sense of oneness
We are one community – but one with many ages, cultures, and people,” is how Bonny McKnight put it. “We’ve put on this event to help us connect our community’s youth, seniors, families, and children.”

The event is important to the community, McKnight said. “We think we will all be better off if we know each other, and interact – regardless of age. Our aim is restore a sense of oneness – and wholeness – in our community.”

It came about as McKnight worked with leadership of the Eastminster church looking for ways to help their older members connect with the community. The committee grew into a larger group as members of the Russell Neighborhood Association got involved. “The church did a good deal of the work. Most of the costs for this covered up by a Small Neighborhood Grant through EPNO, funded by Portland’s Office of Neighborhood Involvement,” she explained.

Jerome Harden demonstrates making ice cream the old-fashioned way – and it was delicious!

Promotes community safety
“As people meet, and make new friends,” McKnight continued, “it helps everyone involved make a connection back in the community. Getting to know people we wouldn’t otherwise meet in their daily course of living helps us all feel safer and less isolated.”

In the Russell Neighborhood, many of the residents are widows who still live in their single-family homes.  “We’re finding that more and more of these women feel isolated in their homes, because they don’t know the neighbors who are moving in. They no longer feel safe. We’re trying to bridge the gap from the community they once knew to the community of today.”

All of them from Boy Scout Troop 474, Israel Kamerman and Joseph Bishop spot Ira Kamerman as he demonstrates walking along the temporary, 40-foot long rope bridge they constructed at the event.

From a practical standpoint, related McKnight, “Our committee will use what we’ve learned from putting on this event to see how we can better do a holiday event we have planed.”

Judging from the turnout, it looks as if this celebration was accepted well by the community. Keep watching our Community Calendar – we’ll let you know the date and time of that upcoming holiday event!

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Details of this wreck at SE 82nd Ave. and Woodstock Blvd. are sketchy, but take a look at one intersection-shutting accident, representative of the rain-caused motor mayhem many experienced as the winter rains returned …

The intersection of SE 82nd Avenue of Roses and SE Woodstock Boulevard was closed for hours on the rainy afternoon of October 3rd, as workers tried to untangle utility wires from a dump truck with trailer, a car, and a downed traffic control signal.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
As the first dark, winter-like days descend over East Portland, the number of traffic collisions spikes up, every year. All over East Portland, a variety of motor vehicle accidents – large and small – were reported over the police radio on the wet day of Friday, October 3.

Fortunately, none of the smash-ups were serious – but at least one of them provided an interesting photo opportunity.

About 1:00 p.m. on October 3, we heard a police call about a crash involving a double gravel truck, a car, and a utility pole, at the intersection of SE 82nd Avenue of Roses and SE Woodstock Boulevard.

From what we learned, no one was injured in this odd-looking accident. From this view, it looks like the car has been destroyed. This was NOT the case!

-3 Looking at the car from this angle, you’ll note that the Buick seemed to have escaped the tangle with a double dump truck with only minor scratchs from the power cables.

Downed wires close intersection
When we arrived on-scene, we saw a Knife River dump truck and trailer combo stopped diagonally across SE Woodstock Boulevard, on the west side of the intersection.

A utility pole, on the northwest corner of the intersection, had been snapped into three sections. The upper portion of the pole – the pedestrian traffic signals were about a foot above its jagged end – smashed into the window at the Liberty Buy-Sell store; the security bars inside the store kept the pole from protruding further into the store.

Also west of the intersection was a silver Buick, stopped on another diagonal.

Hovering about a foot above the Buick was the top of that utility pole. The street lamp stanchion affixed to the pole, gracefully arched, followed the curve of the windshield and the hood; the lamp fixture dangled in front of the car’s bumper. Amazingly, we didn’t see any broken glass on the car. The only damage appeared to be a few scratches from the power lines being coiled on and around it.

This usually-busy intersection was closed; traffic signals were hanging chest-high above 82nd Avenue.

Details remain sketchy
Neither the police officer at the scene, nor police bureau officials, were able to provide any further information about this odd wreck, which closed this major intersection for hours, as utility workers worked to untangle the wires and restore service.

When we asked the men who were said to be, respectively, the drivers of the truck and car, what had happened – both refused to comment on the cause of the crash.

That unusual development suggests that perhaps BOTH drivers were at fault! Officials have yet to comment on the incident. No one appeared to have been injured in the wreck.

The utility pole was broken cleanly in three pieces.

We were told (unverified) that the man in the red shirt and hat was the driver of the dump truck rig – here he stands next to the store window shattered by the utility pole.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

What’s all the fuss about a little teddy bear named Corduroy? Discover the message behind this “Read for the Record” effort ….

Enjoying the story of “Corduroy“, as read by youth librarian Sue Ciesielski at Midland Library, are Tristan Hansen, Emma Zallee, Pearl Hilton, and Leah Zallee.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Few of the children gathered at Midland Library on October 2 realized they were part of a nationwide effort to break a world record: The most number of people reading the same book on the same day, an event called “Read for the Record”.

These 34 pre-school tots were instead focused on the pages of Don Freeman’s 1968 picture book entitled “Corduroy” during their morning “Story Time” hosted by youth librarian Sue Ciesielski.

As she turned the pages, the youngsters’ eyes widened as they wondered if the shopworn department store teddy bear, Corduroy, would be able to replace the missing button on his jumper; and thus, consider himself “good enough” to go home with the little girl who earnestly desires him.

As Sue Ciesielski presents the story, few of the children realize they’re part of a nationwide program called “Read for the Record”.

Event focuses attention on pre-readers
“Events such as ‘Read for the Record’ are important,” commented Ciesielski, “because it focuses attention on early literacy – having children become familiar with books, and the concept of reading.”

The term “early literacy”, Ciesielski explained, is helping youngsters learn what they need to know before they actually learn to read.

An organization called “Jumpstart” created the event, and encouraged adults to read Corduroy to youngsters in libraries, schools, and child-care centers around the country to bring attention to the importance of preparing children to read at an early age. The program was made possible here by grants from The Library Foundation and a local firm, Hanna Andersson.

Midland Library – and most of the Multnomah County library branches – hold several “Story Time” events every week to promote early literacy.

Early literacy promoted weekly; year-around
Helping young children develop pre-reading skills isn’t an annual event at Multnomah County libraries.

“Midland Library hosts 11 ‘Story Times’ every week,” explained Ciesielski. “Eight of them are primarily in the English language, but we also have one each in the Vietnamese, Spanish, and Chinese languages.”

By the way, although Corduroy got lost in the big department store while he searched for a btton — he was returned to the toy department in time to be found by the little girl who came back for him the following day, purchased him, and took him home. They were happy together, everafter. We love happy endings!

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Learn the steps the police took to find a man who they say is armed, dangerous – and still on the loose, after this disturbance shut down a large section of the Powellhurst-Gilbert neighborhood …

Traffic is diverted off SE Powell Blvd. during rush hour as police search for an alleged gunman who took a pot-shot at his girlfriend as she drove off.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
The usually-slow afternoon drive home along outer SE Powell Boulevard slammed to a complete halt, as police diverted traffic from the street between SE 112th Avenue and SE 122nd, starting about 4:00 p.m. on Thursday, October 2.

According to Portland Police Bureau spokesperson Officer Catherine Kent, it all began with a “disturbance” call to 9-1-1 late in the afternoon, about an event witnessed in the Powellhurst-Gilbert Neighborhood.

Because police officers didn’t find the handgun said to be used in the shooting at the scene, the officers who formed a perimeter around the area stood ready to defend themselves, should the armed gunman show up at their position.

The call, from a third-party, informed police that “a male and female were verbally arguing over a set of [car] keys. The female took off in a silver Mercedes, and the male subject took out a gun and fired a round (bullet),” Kent explained.

Officers were dispatched to the area of SE Powell Boulevard and SE 120th Avnue.

When officials suspect that a gunman is on the loose, they call in the Special Emergency Response Team (SERT) to help search the neighborhood.

Above, Portland Police Bureau’s Air Two circles the area, looking for the suspect, using their high-power camera system.

Concern grows; SERT called out
From what we heard while monitoring the police radio, a young man, about 5′ 8″ tall with a medium built, wearing a grey hooded sweatshirt and grey pants, took off on foot. A brief inspection of the vehicle involved in the incident revealed no bullet holes, however.

We watched as police officers searched vehicles leaving the streets between SE Powell and SE Division, mostly from SE 115th Avenue east to SE 120th. From what we heard, police searched for the nickel-plated handgun allegedly used, but didn’t find it.

Because of their concern that an armed gunman was on the loose in the neighborhood, police supervisors activated SERT officers to comb the area. Overhead, the cops’ “eye-in-the-sky”, Air Two, circled with its high-power cameras and infrared sensors, searching for the alleged gunman.

Police officers search vehicles leaving the quarantined area, to make sure the suspect doesn’t slip away in a vehicle.

Neighbors kept from returning home
For hours, folks living within the area were told they could not enter the quarantined zone. “We’re just trying to keep everyone safe,” an officer explained to an exasperated-looking woman with four kids in her car.

“I wish I could get home,” Stella Longham told us, as she waited in the Rock & Roll Pizza parking lot on her way home from work. “There’s a lot of trouble here in this part of town. But, the police seem to react quickly. I’d rather be safe than sorry.”

It wasn’t until later in the evening that police allowed residents to return to their homes.

Officials say this man, 20-year-old Eddy John Anthony Lewis, is their person of interest in the case, and should be considered armed and dangerous. If you see him, immediately call 9-1-1.

Police name suspect
The man police say who caused the ruckus is 20-year-old Eddy John Anthony Lewis. Officials say Lewis may be charged with “domestic violence with a firearm” and “attempted assault”. Citizens are urged to call 9-1-1 if they spot Lewis.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Take a look and see why you don’t have to
travel far to enjoy a genuine Oktoberfest …

Emily MacKay, promotion director for Historic Oaks Amusement Park leads the famous “Chicken Dance” in the Main FestHalle.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Again this year, historic Oaks Amusement Park was teeming with men dressed in lederhosen and ladies in dirndl dresses, as the 18th annual Oktoberfest was in full swing.

“Of course, we have lots of German sausage and beer,” said the promotions director for the 103 year old park, Emily MacKay. “But we also have a Kinder Plaza for kids, wiener dog races, cooking demonstrations, craft vendors, and all of our great midway rides.”

Sara and Nick Vaday drink in the fun at the Oaks Park Oktoberfest.

Strongman John Romero shows off his muscles by ringing the bell at the Oaks Park Oktoberfest.

MacKay said what makes their Oktoberfest different from many others is its family-friendly nature. “This is the celebration where everyone can bring the kids, grandma, and grandpa, and everyone has a wonderful time!”

With two bands playing into the evening, attendees danced, talked, and ate bratwurst, chicken schnitzel, and smoked-chicken dinners.

Chad Siegel, proprietor of Family Tree Nut Company, shows off his product, freshly-made in this genuine German-manufactured roaster.

Mt. Scott residents Jessica and Steve Eckhardt dance up a storm to the toe-tapping tunes of the Greg Meier Alpine Quartet.

And, it wouldn’t be an Oktoberfest without repeated rounds of the famous Chicken Dance. From the very young, to old codgers, everyone got up and clacked their beaks, flapped their wings, wiggled their tail feathers, and clapped their hands.

Grilling the finishing touches on delicious-looking smoked chicken is Kate Lambo.

Fraulines Ali Burgess and Kim Grady say they’re enjoying the Oktoberfest celebration.

“We’re so happy that Zenner’s Quality Sausage & Smoked Meats is working with this year and next,” MacKay mentioned. It’s wonderful to find a local company who not only provides meats, they also help out with the décor, and design the activities of our event.”

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

The ambulance didn’t look much damaged – but it was carrying a patent who really needed to get to the hospital. Look at what happened to the car that hit it …

The crew from Portland Fire & Rescue’s Engine 9 makes sure this accident doesn’t get any worse than it already is.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
It was an ordinary run for American Medical Response Medic unit 323 on Monday night, at 9:00 p.m. on September 22. The crew was transporting a critically-ill patient to Providence Medical Center.

That ambulance never made it to the hospital; the patient, eventually did.

“The ambulance was headed north on SE 39th Ave.,” reported eye-witness Butch Strickland. “It was threading its way through traffic, and then the intersection at Powell, with the lights and siren on. But when it got most of the way through the intersection, a car [traveling westbound on SE Powell Ave.] just ran into it.”

From what we learned from others who witnessed the collision, it appeared as if the driver who caused the wreck did have a green light; but didn’t hear the siren – and didn’t notice that all traffic at the intersection had come to a standstill to let the emergency vehicle pass.

Although the ambulance appears to be only slightly damaged, witnesses say the car’s impact pushed it sideways about two feet.

The ambulance didn’t look much the worse for wear; the car’s front end was demolished. “When the car hit the ambulance,” Strickland told us, “it slid the front end of the ambulance about two feet sideways.”

Within minutes, AMR Medic unit 326 was on scene; the patient was transferred and transported to Providence Hospital. Portland Fire & Rescue Engine 9’s crew made sure there weren’t other injuries and cut the power on the car to prevent a possible fire.

“There aren’t any Traffic Division reports available regarding the accident,” reported Portland Police Bureau spokesman Officer Greg Pashley. “The intersection was opened to traffic at 10:03 p.m.”

The next time you come to an intersection – and see that the traffic has come to a stop – it’s a good idea to slow down and look for emergency vehicles or a pedestrian, Pashley commented.

Ambulance crew members are debriefed by Portland Police Bureau Traffic Division investigating officers.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Mayor Tom Potter outlined a plan to combat prostitution along the Avenue of Roses. So why did neighbors – 200 strong – take their concern about this problem to the streets? Find out right here …

Nearly 200 citizens from area neighborhoods take part in the “March to Reclaim 82nd Avenue”.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Since the Portland City Counsel allowed the Prostitution-free Zone ordinance to “sunset” a year ago – on September 30, 2007 – street-level prostitution has exploded along 82nd Avenue of Roses.

Because it seemed as if the City took no notice of the marked increase of illicit activities in neighborhoods from Parkrose south to Lents, several citizens’ groups have formed to draw attention to the problem.

Specifically, neighbors say, street-level prostitution draws customers from all over the metropolitan area who participate in illegal activities. Police officials confirm the activities don’t actually take place on the street itself, but instead, on the side streets within neighborhoods on either side of 82nd. Ave.

After a year of silence, Portland Mayor Tom Potter enunciated a plan to combat the problem on September 11. (Read about his announcement, the plan and neighbors’ responses, by CLICKING HERE.)

While some neighbors say they are encouraged to see that this problem is finally on City Hall’s radar, at least one group openly questioned the efficacy of Potter’s anti-prostitution proposal.

Laurie Depue prepares a sign that lets her feelings be known as she prepares for the march in 82nd Avenue of Roses.

Town Hall Summit draws hundreds
275 neighbors came to demonstrate their dedication to combating prostitution at a Town Hall Summit held at Vestal Elementary School on September 15.

(Read our coverage of the Town Hall Summit by CLICKING HERE.)

The Town Hall’s organizer, Dawn Rasmussen, Chair of the “Save NE 82nd Coalition”, said after the event that her organization hasn’t taken a position regarding Mayor Potter’s proposal. “We’re not saying its right or wrong; we’re willing to see what happens. It’s hard to speculate on how well it will work. How does one define ‘successful’ for a program dealing with such a complex issue?”

Fritz Hirsch, an outer East Portland resident and Montavilla in Action volunteer, tells a NewsChannel 8 reporter why he’s involved in march.

200 march protesting against prostitution – and Potter’s plan
Another group of neighbors called “Montavilla in Action” (MIA) organized what they called “The March to Reclaim 82nd Avenue”, which ran from SE Division Street north to E. Burnside on the morning of September 20.

“This march is a visible symbol from the neighbors,” explained Fritz Hirsch, an outer East Portland resident and MIA volunteer. “We simply find it unacceptable that a 82nd Avenue is being turned into a red-light district. It’s a multifaceted problem that demands a multifaceted approach.”

Asked about Mayor Potter’s announced plan, Hirsch said that he, and other MIA members, appreciate the work City leaders have done regarding the issue. “It’s refreshing to see them taking a significant, serious look at the problem. However, the plan they propose is a complex one. Our group posed several serious questions about it that, so far, have not been answered.”

Brian Wong, coordinator of their foot patrol and a Montavilla in Action volunteer musters the marchers in Portland Community College’s SE Center.

Wants safe neighborhood
Rallying the marchers in Portland Community College’s SE Center parking lot, another MIA volunteer, and coordinator of their Foot Patrol, Brian Wong, spoke with us.

“I want a safe neighborhood in which to raise my family,” Wong simply stated. “We don’t want good families leaving neighborhoods up and down 82nd Avenue. We’re putting pressure our city leaders to bring back the Prostitution-free Zone ordinance to help us reclaim our neighborhood.”

Wong says he’s concerned that the City’s plan to combat street-sex prostitution relies on complex procedures – but a Prostitution-free Zone is simple and effective.

Concerned about procedures and prosecution
“[Mayor Potter’s plan] relies on a complex set of procedures in which those engaging in prostitution are arrested, prosecuted, and, if found guilty, may only then be sanctioned,” Wong said. “One of our concerns is that the interest level in the District Attorney’s office for prosecuting prostitution-related cases is relatively low [as compared to other crimes]. The Prostitution-free Zone is a simple ordinance that makes it clear that prostitution is not welcome on our streets and in our neighborhoods.”

Multnomah County Commission candidate Mike Delman joins the march to lend his support.

More events planned
Liz Sullivan, a Montavilla in Action volunteer who publicly questioned Potter about his plan at his press conference, was also at Saturday’s march.

“We’re gathering on September 30 to commemorate and commiserate on the 1 year anniversary of Mayor Potter & the City Council’s abandonment of the Prostitution Free Zone (PFZ) ordinance,” Sullivan announced.

“We’ve been gathering petition signatures all summer long from concerned residents who have witnessed the deterioration of their neighborhoods since the abandonment of the highly effective PFZ ordinance, and who demand that the PFZ be reinstated as soon as possible – now, more than ever, after hearing the Mayor’s new proposal,” declared Sullivan. “Join us at Montavilla Park, in NE 82nd Avenue at NE Glisan Street at 11:00 am.”

Also this week, Rasmussen announced that the Save NE 82nd Coalition will present another Town Hall Summit on October 7 from 6:30 – 8:30 pm at Portland Community College’s Southeast Center. Featured speakers will include Jeri Williams from the City of Portland and Melissa Farly of Prostitution Research.

Instead of jeers and obscene gestures, the marchers are greeted with horn honks, friendly waves and the “OK” sign.

Advises against confronting suspected prostitutes
In a related story, about 10 p.m. – the evening of “The March to Reclaim 82nd Avenue” – two citizens reported seeing prostitutes working 82nd Avenue of Roses at SE Hawthorne Street.

According to police spokesman Officer Greg Pashley, the nature of the interaction between them was unclear – but it resulted in “Two alleged prostitutes approaching the car and spraying pepper spray at the car.”

East Precinct Commander Michael Crebs advises against directly confronting anyone doing any illegal activity. “Some of the people engaged in prostitution may have emotional problems, and may be under emotional pressure. They may lash out at people who try to interfere with them.

“If citizens see suspected prostitution activity, call and allow us to take care of it,” Crebs concluded.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

‘House Recycling’ Epilog: As the family moves into their new home – one that incorporates all of the old house which previously stood on the site – find out what discoveries they made as they wrapped up the project …

Last November, a run-down old house stood on the property where Quimby’s “REX Project” recycled house now stands.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
When we first met Shannon Quimby, on November 28, 2007, we thought the idea behind this perky recycling expert’s project of completely recycling an old, run-down house into a new home – without dumping a lot of waste into the landfill – was laudable, but impractical.

Just before she and her crew started dismantling – not wrecking – the Westmoreland house at SE 21st Avenue at S.E. Rex Street, she told us, “I’m determined to show that, with some ingenuity, reclaiming an old home can be practical, fun, and save money.”

At the end of the project, during the first week of August, Quimby and her family moved into their new home. Quimby took a few minutes, amid unpacked boxes and misplaced furniture, to tell us what she’d learned in the process.

Quimby recycled beer and wine bottles into this unique lighting fixture.

Lessons learned
“Over the past eight months of the ‘Reuse Everything eXperiment’ – the REX Project – I learned that one can recycle and reuse pretty much everything from a very old house into a new one,” Quimby began.

“I knew that doors, windows, and flooring could be recycled. But I had no idea what could be done with old roofing shingles; they now foot my deck. I learned that the core of sheet rock – gypsum – could be used as an amenity in my yard’s soil.”

Quimby said instead of Dumpsters, there were four big recycling bins at the job site: One for metal, one for paper, one for plastic, and one for cardboard. At the end of every week every one of them was filled to overflowing.

“No one has ever done this before; I did research, asked questions, and learned every day,” Quimby said “It was my goal to recycle as much as I could, and I’ve met my goal.”

Not all of the waste from the project could be recycled or reused, however. “What really blew me away was that one whole pickup truck load of trash consisted of food containers, brought to the site by all of the subcontractors,” exclaimed Quimby. “But it is amazing to think that all the waste from deconstructing one home, and building another, was limited to 2½ pickup trucks worth.”

Hidden trash source: packaging
Another surprising source of refuse, Quimby mentioned, was packaging. “Everything from basic building materials to lighting fixtures come in packaging. Fortunately there are many places to recycle Styrofoam – it was coming out of our ears! From the foundation forms, to our new kitchen appliances, they were all packed in Styrofoam.”

But, by carefully sorting the packaging materials, Quimby met her goal of keeping waste from filling a landfill. “Wouldn’t it be great if recycling became a ‘standard building practice’?”

Being ‘green’ saves greenbacks
We asked if these “green” building practices actually saved her any money.

“Right now we are looking at saving $40,000 by recycling much of the old house in to our new one,” replied Quimby. “Much of the saving comes from reusing materials.”

She pointed to her kitchen’s butcher-block-style counter; it was made from leftover framing materials from the old and new house. “We reused the old house’s foundation to pave our patio – that saved $150 in material, and trucking costs.”

This new entertainment center was constructed from a “patchwork quilt” of leftover building materials. Quimby pours nails removed from the old house into the top, to be covered with glass, serving as a conversation piece for years to come.

Incorporating leftovers
As the family worked on interior design and decoration, Quimby said she’s facing challenges finding ways to incorporate “a lot of oddball and ugly” leftover materials into the new house.

“I had fun with the old wine and beer bottles we found in the humongous laurel hedge – we’ve turned them into our dining room’s chandelier. Hiding the wiring cans is part of the bi-fold door from the old house.”

Quimby pointed with pride to the new downstairs entertainment center. “It’s a ‘patchwork quilt’ made from leftover framing, flooring, and decking. All of the remaining nails from the old house will be poured into this, and be topped by a sheet of glass.”

House open for October 4 tour
In addition to settling into the new home, Quimby said she’s writing two books about her project. You may see the project turning up as a special on Home & Gardens TV Network.

If you want see it for yourself, she says they’ll be part of the neighborhood’s “Tour of Remodeled Homes” on October 4. “I hope to see everyone from the neighborhood all coming over to check out the ‘REX Project’.”

For more information, visit www.shannonquimby.com.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News