Even during the summer months, see how “Dave’s Can Clan” works to turn recycle-for-credit bottles and cans into cash to help student programs – and how you can help …

The Parkrose High School Varsity Cheerleaders help out with can and bottle collection efforts, during their July Saturday morning event.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
The Parkrose Bronco Boosters’ “Can Collection Drive” continues throughout the summer months, on the first Saturday of every month – with the exception of July 12, when we caught up with them.

As we pull up, members of the Parkrose High School Varsity Cheerleaders look dejected that we don’t have a trunk full of returnable bottles and cans – but they say they’re happy to help promote the fundraising effort.

The money collected from this first-Saturday-of-the-month can drive at Parkrose Middle school is evenly divided between the Parkrose Bronco Boosters, and the sports team or club that helps out.

Dave, the Parkrose Can Man – can — and does!
“Last year we generated $6,000 here from our 12 monthly can drives,” said Parkrose’ “king of cans”, Dave Luce. “This is all from people who bring us their returnable-for-credit cans and bottles. And, we then help them by sorting them, and taking care of their non-refundables as well.”

He does this, Luce said, because his kids went to Parkrose Schools. “And, I’m retired and I don’t fish as much as I used to,” he says with a smile.

With the help of area businesses and neighbors, Luce places barrels and collects cans to raise money for Parkrose Senior All-night Parties.

Supports All-night Party
Additionally, Luce also raised $9,000 for the ’07-’08 Senior All-night Party. “I’m starting on next year’s event already,” he says.

Luce gets the cans by gaining permission to place 55-gallon plastic barrels or drums in various locations, he revealed. “I have 194 of them out at people’s businesses, and some homes.  They fill them and give me a call, and I come take ’em home and sort them. At the same time, I drop off a clean and empty barrel. It keeps me busy year-round.”

You can help
If you generate a substantial number of deposit-return cans and bottles at your home or business, give Dave Luce a call at (503) 255-3745, and help him help our community.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

What a great summertime festival! See why more folks are setting aside the second Saturday in July to attend this event …

Tyler Whitmire, president of the Portland International District Business Association strings up the welcoming banner.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
The second annual International Festival on July 14 – a community program of the Portland International District Business Association – was again gifted with sunny weather and blue skies.

And, the event grew this year, with more than double the attendance of the first one.

The An Daire Academy of the Celtic Arts – based in Portland and now with a school in Corvallis – energetically performed “Riverdance”-style Irish Step Dancing to the delight of the audience.

Making a ‘culturally inclusive’ area
“We are creating a culturally inclusive zone in Portland,” Tyler Whitmire, the president of the district association explained. “It’s where people can come and learn to understand one another. When understanding increased, people can benefit from the enlightenment that comes from exchanging ideas and culture.”

This event, Whitmire continued, helps do that by bringing people together to explore and celebrate their cultures.

Portland City Commissioner and Mayor-elect Sam Adams visits the festival. Here, he’s checking in at the Lions Club Health Screening van with volunteer Jan Wilson.

Adams congratulates fest organizers
“This festival is important in terms of what we want for our neighborhoods and our city,” said Mayor-elect Sam Adams, speaking to folks at the event. “I’ve been here both years, and it is amazing at how much it’s grown this year.”

Adams thanked Whitmire, Dr. Thomas Wright, and Eileen Stoker, and other organizers of the event. “I see lots of volunteers here, doing a lot of work to help keep this neighborhood get safe and friendly. I thank everyone who helps put this on.”

Entertainment abounds
The main stage at the Festival was the focal point for the event, as act after act entertained attendees.

Among the musical acts: Sam Bamboo played with steel drums; Love Pyle played American classics, and featured a young lady who really could belt out the blues; Allen Mathews sat in to play a solo set of Brazilian classical guitar music; and Haldaman’s Ooompa Boys finished the day with rousing Germanic songs – including the famous “Chicken Dance”.

Our International Festival Photo Album

The streets along Roseway Park are lined with public service providers, community group representatives and lots of great food booths.

The Roseway Neighbors Players Chauntey Cruz, Terrie Quinteros, Kieu-Oanh Nguyen, and Morris McClellan are introduced by the play’s author and director, Jeannie LaFrance, before they present “This Place is Home”.

Ronda Johnson of Central Northeast Neighbors hands out literature.

Artist Carol Hamilton paints a fine likeness of Spongebob Squarepants on Jakob Smith’s leg.

Demonstrating dances of the Pacific Isles is Kanani O Ka Aina. Kanani is on the left.

Again this year, it was your reporter’s pleasure to serve as Master of Ceremonies for the event. Special thanks to our audio producer, Mo McClellan.

Find out more
Want to find out more about this association, that works with business and neighbors along NE Sandy Boulevard? “Find out more information by going to www.pdxid.com, to find other ways we bring businesses and neighbors together,” invited Whitmire.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland New

See how many neighborhood groups are celebrating the 25th annual “National Night Out against Crime” …

Rosanne Lee talks up “National Night Out” parties, at a recent outer East Portland event.

Story and photo by David F. Ashton
“America’s Night Out Against Crime” will be celebrated locally at several events in outer East Portland as they celebrate the 25th Annual “National Night Out” (NNO), a unique crime/drug prevention program on Tuesday, August 5.

“We have many events going on this year,” said Crime Prevention Specialist Rosanne Lee, who works with the East Portland Neighborhood Organization.

“These neighborhood parties were created to heighten crime and drug prevention awareness, and to generate support for, and participation in, local anti-crime programs,” Lee explained. The events tend to strengthen neighborhood spirit and police-community partnerships, she added; “They send a message to criminals – letting them know that neighborhoods are organized and fighting back against crime.”

Last year, the Argay/Russell event attracted nearly 300 guests.

This year’s major events include those put on by these associations:

• Argay Neighborhood Associations BBQ – It runs from 6 until 8:30 pm at Argay Park, NE 141st & Beech Street. There’ll be live music, games, face painting, visits from police and firefighters, information booths, and much more.  Burgerville cheeseburgers, chips, and a drink – for only $2!
• Centennial Community Association – It runs from 6 until 8 pm at Parklane Park, SE 155th & SE Millmain. They say the community is invited for refreshments. Meet police, firemen, crime prevention and the volunteers from Centennial Community Association.
• Glenfair Neighborhood Association – This one will be from 6 until 9 pm at Glenfair Park, NE 154th & Davis Street. Free pizza for Glenfair residents (please don’t mooch!). Enjoy clowns, face painters, games, a fire truck, and other surprises.
• Lents Neighborhood Association Ice Cream Social – Their event is from 6 until 8 pm at Lents Park Picnic Area A, SE 92nd & SE Holgate. Come meet Lents residents, Police Officers, Lents Firemen, and find out what’s happening in the neighborhood! Information will be available on homeownership, crime prevention, the Neighborhood Emergency Team, and the Lents Neighborhood Association. Free ice cream and prize raffle.  Contact Amie at 503-788-8052 x105 or amie@rosecdc.org. Ice Cream is available on a first come, first served basis.
• Wilkes/Russell Neighbors’ Celebration – These folks put on a big event from 5:30 until 8:00 pm at Wilkes Park, NE 154th just south of Sandy Boulevard.  Come and enjoy an evening with your neighbors, police, fire, & crime prevention representatives. Complimentary BBQ burgers with all the fixin’s, pop, watermelon & children’s prizes!
• Woodland Park Neighbors’ Luau/Block Party – The small neighborhood with the big heart runs their event from 6 until 9 pm. This year, it’s in front of 1737 NE 101st. A Hawaiian Luau theme is planned for Woodland Park’s celebration. Come enjoy good food, music, children’s activities, raffle prizes, and meet your local neighborhood police officers, crime prevention reps, & neighbors.
• Mill Park Neighborhood Association BBQ — This event runs from 5:30 until 9:00 pm at SE Yamhill Street and SE 113th Avenue. These folks get together for family fun, barbecue and music.

Find one in your area
Whereever you are in the Portland area, you can find an event near you by visiting the Portland Office of Neighborhood Involvement directly by CLICKING HERE.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

These slime-buckets broke in and stole the family goods and car. Then, they went on a spending spree with their credit cards. Help us bust these crooks by taking a look …

Annie Diess and her son Max show us where their TV, video games, and other home electronics used to sit, before they were stolen while they were in church on July 20.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
It was a typical Sunday morning for the Diess family. They got ready and left for church on July 20 just before 8:00 am, as they typically do.

Sadly, criminals were watching their departure as they walked to their church.

When the family returned to their NE Portland home, just off E. Burnside Street, at 9:10 am, they found that crooks had broken into their home.

The thieves stole cell phones, a laptop computer, an Ipod, video equipment, jewelry, and even worse, credit cards. The crooks even stole the little girl’s piggy bank! The family’s big television was too tempting to leave behind, and they stole a family car, also.

The burglars didn’t get Max’s piggy bank, but they did steal the one that belonged to his sister.

Joy ride and spending spree
According to some reports, their stolen SUV was seen joy-riding around town – in areas from inner SE Portland to Gresham. Within hours, three people were seen in outer East Portland going on a spending spree – with credit cards belonging to the Diess family.

“Police received information from the Fred Meyer store at 14700 SE Division Street,” reported the bureau’s spokesman, Sgt. Brian Schmautz. “Three subjects attempted to use the victim’s credit card to buy about $700 worth of clothing. Store personnel became suspicious when they saw the suspects quickly stuffing merchandise into shopping carts. When they asked for identification, the subjects took off.”

It is obvious where the Diess family computer once sat on the desk in their home office.

Crime makes them feel suspicious
Reflecting back on the break-in, when she talked with us on July 31, the burgled homeowner, Annie Diess, said the family is still not sleeping well.

“I feel afraid, bad, and suspicious,” Diess told us. “We’re suspicious of every car that drives by or parks near home; we look at people who walk by the house. We’re constantly resetting our alarm system. It has changed our whole lives.”

She, and her son Max, show us most obvious result of the burglary – the gaping space where their widescreen television used to be, in the family’s media room. “Things like the TV can be replaced,” she commented. “There are a few sentimental pieces we really care about. More than that, I want the people who did this to know how much they hurt people by doing this. I hope they don’t get away with it.”

Max added, “It feels weird and bad because we won’t get to play games on the Wii for a long time. They also went into my room and took my pocket knife, and some rare coins I got from the Tooth Fairy.”

The young lad added he was sad because the crooks also stole presents from his First Communion.

Put the heat on these crooks and get cold cash
Fortunately, the Fred Meyer store surveillance system caught three individals on tape while inside “shopping” with the stolen credit cards. Take a look at this trio but note: the police call them “credit card fraud suspects” — they are not necessarily accused of being the persons who broke into the home.

Here are two looks at Suspect #1 – a white male in his 20’s, 5’10”, 170 pounds, short or possibly shaved head, goatee, and multiple tattoos on both arms and on the back of his neck. He was wearing a white baseball cap, awhite short sleeve T-shirt with “Hurley” on the front, and plaid shorts.

Suspect #2, seen here with the first suspected crook, is a white male, in his 20’s, short dark hair, wearing a short-sleeve striped polo shirt.

Suspect #3 is a white female in her 20’s, with long straight brown hair. She was wearing a dark-colored short sleeve top, and dark-colored pants.

By the way, the stolen vehicle, a 2005 blue Toyota Highlander, was recovered in the 5400 block of NE Hoyt Street, parked and left on July 25th.

Your tip can be anonymous
Crime Stoppers is offering a cash reward of up to $1,000 for information, reported to Crime Stoppers, which leads to an arrest in this case, or in any unsolved felony, and you can remain anonymous. If you have a tip, call Crime Stoppers at (503) 823-HELP (4357), or visit the website, www.crimestoppersoforegon.com.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

The project isn’t over – but it’s completed. Take a look, to find out what’s next with this neighborhood community monument project …

The originator and architect of  the Parkrose Community Peace Labyrinth, Sharon DeWitt, welcomes guests to the project’s dedication.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
More than a year in the making, the Parkrose Community Peace Labyrinth has been completed.

Not long ago, we attended the its dedication. The person who hatched the idea, Sharon DeWitt, who is in charge of Parkrose High School grounds, led the brief dedicatory program.

“I’ve always thought it would be wonderful to part of the high school’s grounds, creatively,” DeWitt began.

Many volunteers who worked on the labyrinth came to celebrate the project’s completion – and its future.

“When I started this project, the first thing I did was go to our Principal, Roy Reynolds. He encouraged me to find my own support system. He didn’t assume that either my project, nor I, was crazy!

“I did find a great support system – all of you who helped: With your time, your effort, and your support. Support systems are pretty amazing thing. Here’s a perfect example: When we built this labyrinth for our community, people stepped up to build the fabulous gate that welcomes the neighborhood into it.”

Asks for ongoing support
DeWitt continued, “The labyrinth itself now needs its own support system. We’re organizing ‘Friends of the Labyrinth’. If you’re interested in being part of this, I encourage you to sign up.”

Next for the labyrinth, DeWitt said, was performing plantings around the outer circumference, adding a park bench or two, and finding a way to secure the paving bricks in place.

Gives thank-yous
“Thank you, my own support system, Roy Reynolds, for encouraging me to make this project a reality.” She also thanked all the other people who wrote the grants, put together the slate of donors, and those who offered other efforts.

Lily Heller and Cynthia Hoff – half of the group called Sheer Blue – provide music for the dedication celebration.

She also thanked Mike Taylor, former Superintendent, who gave permission to the project and the current Superintendent, Karen Fisher Gray, who “graciously accepted the project midstream”.

Additionally DeWitt thanked the East Portland Neighborhood Organization the Toolbox for Education and Vicky of Copper Moon Design for all of her documentation and promotional help.

To get involved, contact DeWitt by e-mail: sharondewitt@parkrose.k12.or.us.

Through this gate, you’ll find a labyrinth to walk – as you contemplate, meditate or just relax.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Picture the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry without kids around. Lots of adults did, on this special evening …

Second-grade teacher Michael Lindberg and his wife Heather say they find OMSI to be really fun, but a little odd, without students swirling about.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
For decades, the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) has been one of Portland’s quintessential family attractions.

But on July 9, after its regular operating hours, the museum again came to life as the new “OMSI After Dark” event welcomed a different crowd of visitors – all adults.

“That’s right – this is a 21-years-and-over event,” explained Amanda Thomas, coordinator of adult programs at OMSI, as she welcomed guests to the event. “It is an opportunity for adults to experience the museum without having to watch their own children, or make way for other people’s kids.”

Raife Neuman, Jessie King, and Sarah Melton look like they’re having a blast playing (ahem, experimenting) with the air-pressured bottle launcher.

Science education for all
Thomas added that many of their guests remark that they enjoy seeing and playing with the exhibits, and to have the opportunity to learn without being a “child-wrangler.”

“We consider this event important,” Thomas said about the affair. “It’s because OMSI is a great resource for science education, but not just for children – but for adults as well. So, it’s a great opportunity for people who have never been to the museum to come and experience it for the first time.”

After showing their ID to prove they are adults, guests Carolyn Blumensen, Becky Wethern, and Jordan Gladow check into the event with OMSI’s Amanda Thomas.

All-access pass, except the playroom
We found the museum filled with grown-ups truly enjoying themselves. We watched as they turned knobs, adjusted demonstration equipment, and pulled levers that made objects shoot in the air, roll down inclines, and create patterns – all in the pursuit of science, of course.

Activities for the evening included a “Dino Speed Dating” program, in which experts gave brief talks about the dinosaurs in their featured exhibit, “Dinosaurs: China’s Ancient Giants”.

Michael and Heather Lindberg came from Vancouver, Washington, to take in the event. “The best part is, there are no second-graders here,” Heather said. “My husband teaches second grade. When we visited, it was with his class. For me, it’s more fun without the kids.”

As for the teacher, Michael reported, “It’s a little odd, but it’s fun.”

The only area off-limits was the children’s playroom. Some folks tested the door, and looked disappointed they couldn’t frolic among games contained therein.

A caterer brings out another slab of the superb appetizers provided at the July 9th party by the museum.

Libations abound
OMSI members entered the party free; guests paid a cover charge – but found it a great value.

More than discovering the secrets of science alone, guests also tasted – and learned the science behind – food and beverage favorites from local gastronomical artisans, including Moonstruck Chocolate, Full Sail Brewing, Portland Roasting, Hip Chicks Do Wine, Bon Appetit, and Clear Creek Distillery.

In the courtyard tent, tables were festooned with appetizers ranging from fruits and cheeses to decadent cookies and brownies. Being an adult event, a tended bar was available to offer spirited cheer.

Jake Gold, Science Educator at OMSI, talks dinosaurs with visitor Richard Young.

Follow-up event planned
This isn’t a one-shot event, Thomas assured us. “Judging by the turnout, we’ll have another all-adult event, probably in conjunction with the opening of a new exhibit like ‘Mind-Bender Mansion’. Look for it in late January or early February of 2009.”

For more information, check out their their web site: www.omsi.edu.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Can you have a beautiful lawn and garden – without using chemical? Meet a man whose garden paradise is kept lush by totally natural means …

“Natural gardener” John Caine says he’s happy to share his secrets with guests who came by during Metro’s Gardens of Natural Delight” tour.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
The pursuit of beautiful flowerbeds and a lush, green lawn lead many homeowners to get out the chemical-based pesticides and fertilizers.

“More citizens nowadays are interested in keeping their yards safe for children and pets,” said Carl Grimm, Metro’s Natural Gardening and Toxics Reduction Specialist, as he told us about the tenth annual “Gardens of Natural Delight” tour on Sunday, July 13. “They’re also interested in protecting our waterways from harmful and polluting garden chemicals.”

Thirty gardens throughout the tri-county area offered free, self-guided tours. Grimm suggested we see John Caine’s garden in Sellwood.

Every square foot of yard – including this narrow side walk – is covered with naturally-tended foliage.

SE Portland gardener highlighted
“Welcome to the banana-belt of Portland,” John Caine said as he welcomed us – and hundreds of others throughout the day – to his backyard paradise on SE 7th Avenue in Sellwood.

“Need proof?” challenged Caine. “I have a banana orchard over here.”

As guests circulated in his garden, oooing and aaahing over his colorful plants, greenery, and Koi pond, Caine said his purpose was to show folks that they could get great results while maintaining a garden organically.

“People are surprised at how luscious a garden one can have, using organic gardening methods. You don’t have to use chemicals,” Caine said.

35 years of gardening
We asked Caine how he got involved in organic gardening.

“I’ve been in the nursery industry and the landscaping industry for 35 years,” he explained. “After spending so much time in greenhouses where so many chemicals were used, I quit. I was afraid of being hurt by all the chemicals.”

About 10 years ago, he said, he started down the organic path, by using hot pepper wax spray on his roses to keep aphids off them. “I had such good luck; I really got into organic gardening. I’d used compost all my life, but this was a turning point away from using chemicals. I soon found all kinds of other natural gardening methods were available.”

Informational signs posted throughout the garden instruct visitors in the ways of organic gardening.

Natural fertilizer is best
“A compost pile is one of the best sources of fertilizers that you can have,” declared Caine. “You recycle the nutrients right in your garden. And, not using quick-dissolving fertilizers keeps keep unwanted nutrients out of our rivers.

Additionally, the master gardener says, he thinks organic fertilizers actually work better than chemical nutrients – and offered his garden as proof. He continued saying that some commercially-available natural fertilizers, like “Dr. Earth”, add positive fungus that helps plants grow and fend off diseases.

Pesticide prescription
In place of using commercial chemical insecticides, he recommends using natural products that can be found at area mass merchandisers.

“Last year, I picked up some garlic oil at Fred Meyer,” recalled Caine. “Instead of killing insects, it keeps them from coming up onto the plant’s foliage. Garlic oil also works as a fungicide. I use it on my roses to get rid of black spot.”

Russel Callen and Esther Westbrook say they’ll put to use concepts they learned at Caine’s garden at their Westmoreland home.

Seeing is believing
Caine said the best part of being on the tour was seeing the reactions of visitors as they walk around his house and through is back yard. “When they see the results of natural gardening, they believe they can do it, too.”

In addition to talking with gardener Caine, signs and displays around the grounds provided visitors with information.

Westmoreland residents, and natural gardening acolytes, Esther Westbrook and Russel Callen said they learned a lot by visiting Caine’s garden.

“We’re looking for tips on doing natural gardening,” Westbrook said. “This garden is a good example of how beautiful a natural garden can be.”

Holding back nothing, Caine displays his “tools of the trade” in including his gardening favorites, an English Border Fork, Border Shovel and Scuffle Hoe. There aren’t any chemicals – these are all natural products.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

There’s a lesson to be learned from this wreck …

It’s unclear who caused this accident – but the result is crystal clear: Two vehicles are totaled, and people were injured…

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
In many ways, the smash-up on SE 82nd Avenue of Roses at SE Duke Street was unremarkable.

No one was killed, nor were there serious injuries, in this accident which took place at high noon.

What we learned from Portland Police Bureau spokesman Sgt. Brian Schmautz was that witnesses at the scene disagreed on who had the red light, so no citations were issued.

Everyone walked away from this one, but a moment’s inattention can cost drivers more than just a wrecked vehicle.

“75-year-old Jean Baggs was ia blue PT Cruiser northbound on SE 82nd, and was in the process of turning westbound on SE Duke Street, when she collided with red Honda being driven southbound on SE 82nd Avenue by 50-year-old Deborah Steimer,” Schmautz reported.

No matter who was at fault the result was the same: Two smashed cars, and two injured drivers. Schmautz advises to drive defensively, and to assume the other drivers might make a mistake that could cost you. That’s the best way to make sure you arrive at your destination.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

In the mood for ice cream? Read this and discover chef Rachel Goebert’s secret recipe for making his version of this delicious cold treat. It’s easier than you may think …

Rachel Goebert of Caprial’s Westmoreland Kitchen, shows her abilities go beyond being a professional pastry chef. She demonstrates how to make custard-style ice cream.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
In addition to all of the vendors who provide foods ranging from fresh fruit and produce to prepared meals, the Wednesday afternoon Moreland Farmer’s Market offers cooking demonstrations each week.

The market operates on the Portland Memorial parking lot at S.E. Bybee Boulevard at 14th in Westmoreland. To learn the secrets of making premium vanilla ice cream, we stopped by on July 16th.

“Making ice cream at home isn’t as difficult as many folks think,” Chef Goebert says.

“You’re just in time,” said Rachel Goebert of Caprial’s Westmoreland Kitchen. “Today, we’re demonstrating how to make custard style ice cream.  And when we’re done, we’ll top it with fresh berries from the farmers market.”

As the crowd gathered, Goebert told us she graduated from Western Culinary Institute in Portland. “My specialty for the past five years is being a professional pastry chef. I’ve been cooking pretty much all of my life, ever since I had an ‘Easy-Bake Oven’ when I was a little girl.”

Chef Goebert scoops up some of her freshly made ice cream at the Moreland Farmer’s Market.

Cool demo on a hot day
Getting her ingredients together, Goebert began, “On a nice hot day, teaching people how to make ice cream, well, there can’t be anything better. Hopefully some kids here will learn how to make one of their favorite foods. And, it’s fun here hanging out in my neighborhood, meeting and teaching my neighbors.”

Although she didn’t have a stove on which to cook the ingredients, Goebert went through the recipe step-by-step. She explained that she’d already made a big batch – and it was churning in the ice cream maker as she spoke.

By the end of her demonstration, market volunteers had scooped up dozens of cups of her custard ice cream, and were topping the frozen confection with a sauce made from fresh blue and raspberries.

Recipe cards flew from the rack, cups of ice cream were whisked away, and the only sound was that of smacking lips. It was delicious.

“It’s good!” says Maya Adams-Pastor, as she samples some of Rachel Goebert’s freshly made ice cream while sitting on Andrea Pastor’s lap.

The Chef’s recipe
Custard-style Vanilla Ice Cream

• 7 egg yolks
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 2 cups of half-and-half or whole milk
• Pinch of salt
• 1 Vanilla bean, split
• 3 tbs vanilla extract

In a medium saucepan, bring cream, with the vanilla bean in it, to almost a boil. Turn off heat; let stand for about 30 minutes.

In a small bowl, whisk together sugar, egg yolks, and salt. Bring cream and half-and-half almost to a boil. Temper egg yolk mixture by adding about a cup of the boiling liquid into the bowl, while whisking.

Turn off heat and add tempered egg/sugar mixture to the saucepan and whisk briskly. Strain and refrigerate overnight or until completely cooled. Follow the directions on your ice cream making machine.

Volunteers Elaine Harper and Kathy Kreipe scoop the ice cream, and ladle on the fresh berry sauce.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

It’s possible you could be seeing the Portland Beavers play at Lents Park? See who’s behind the idea and how it might a reality …

Greg Peden tells an audience of Rotarians why the plans of Portland Timbers owner, Merritt Paulson, to gain a Major League Soccer franchise here could result in his AAA baseball team, the Portland Beavers, moving to a new baseball stadium in Lents.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
In the not-too-distant future, when you hear the umpire cry, “Play ball!” followed by the crack of a bat hitting a baseball – it may not be city league teams playing at Charles Walker Stadium in Lents Park on SE 92nd Avenue at Holgate Boulevard – it could be Portland’s AAA minor-league Portland Beavers.

That’s the picture painted by Greg Peden, of Gallatin Public Affairs, who represents Henry Merritt Paulson III – owner of the Portland Timbers professional soccer team and the Portland Beavers minor league baseball team. Peden spoke at the SE Portland Club Rotary meeting on July 14.

Paulson is the son of Henry Paulson, the U.S. Secretary of the Treasury; he moved here in 2006 to buy and operate the Beavers and the Portland Timbers minor league soccer team.

Pro soccer franchise sought
Paulson plans to bring Major League Soccer to Portland within the next two years, Peden explained. “Major League Soccer (MLS) currently has 16 teams around the country and is expanding to 18.  Professional Soccer is booming in the US right now – both Philadelphia and Seattle have acquired teams in the last 12 months. Seattle sold 12,000 season tickets within 6 months after acquiring their team.”

If Paulson gets the franchise, MLS would require upgrades to PGE Park, Peden told the group – and those upgrades would require the Beavers baseball team to find a new home. Because of seating changes, PGE Park would become a soccer-specific stadium; making it impossible to share the venue with the baseball team, although PSU football could still take place there.

Peden says whether or not the neighborhood gets behind the idea of a minor league baseball stadium in Lents will be a deciding factor.

Seeking new ball park location
“We have identified two locations in the city that would work for a new minor league baseball stadium with about 8,000 seats,” revealed Peden.

Port of Portland’s “Terminal 1”, off Naito Parkway on the west side of the Willamette River, is one proposed location for the new ballpark. No longer a freight facility, it’s currently being used by the City as an industrial staging area for the Big Pipe program.

“Overlooking the Willamette River, this could be an attractive location,” Peden said. “However, it is an industrial area, and there transportation access issues.”

Top choice: Lents Park
The ball club’s ideal location for a new stadium would be the northeast corner of Lents Park.

“To put it into perspective, Charles Walker Stadium [now on the site] has a capacity of 1,000 fans,” Peden explained. “We propose building a stadium with seating for 8,000 to 9,000 people. It may seem large, but it’s much smaller than Seattle’s Safeco Field, where the Mariners offer 40,000 seats.”

The ball club’s spokesman said there are challenges at Lents Park – namely, finding 1,500 on-site parking spaces. However, with the new MAX light rail station mere blocks away, access may not be a major issue, and the team would explore arranging to use some parking areas at nearby Eastport Plaza.

“The park will have a positive economic impact on the area,” Peden continued. “If we find the majority of people in the Lents community were opposed to the idea, we wouldn’t try to shoe-horn it in. But so far the response has been very positive.”

Although the 1,000-seat Charles Walker Stadium in Lents Park on SE 92nd Avenue at Holgate Boulevard is used daily during the season, few fans fill the bleachers.

Neighbor’s views
The Lents Neighborhood Association hasn’t yet taken a stand, said its Chair, Dewey Akers. “We’re forming a committee to discuss the issue.”

Long-time Lents-area booster, and president of the 82nd Ave. of Roses Business Association, Ken Turner, said he personally endorses the idea.

“Aside from my life-long passion for baseball,” Turner said, “I see the possibility of the Portland Beavers into the area as a positive move for redevelopment.”

Turner added that while a baseball team cannot be considered a keystone for redevelopment, he feels it will bring positive improvements to Lents by showcasing the area as a good, family-oriented neighborhood.

“I see this as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for Lents to gain a major attraction. There’s a lot to be discussed; but this is an opportunity – regardless of the outcome – should be pursued.”

Could this area be the new home of the Portland Beavers? It’s depends …

Hinges on obtaining a franchise
Whether or not the Portland Beavers will move – anywhere – is contingent upon Major League Soccer approving Paulson’s application for a franchise.

“We’re looking at a three month time line for approval,” Peden said. “There is competition from owners in other cities for a major league soccer team.” If there is no soccer franchise here, then the Beavers would stay put in PGE Park.

Obtaining the soccer franchise would cost $40 million dollars, all of which Paulson is prepared to pay. But he would require some public assistance with the stadium.

At that point it would be up to the sports team owner to convince members of the Portland City Council that there is a sufficient fan base to make participating in the investment to improve PGE Park – and to build a new stadium at Lents park – worthwhile.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Smoke from the blaze at Buckaroo Thermoseal Roofing and Insulation could be seen all over the greater Portland area. See why firefighters had their work cut out for them, at this industrial fire …

As we approach from NE Sandy Boulevard at NE 112th Avenue, Portland Fire & Rescue firefighters on this aerial ladder truck were often obscured by thick, dark smoke produced by the furiously burning roofing material.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
As Parkrose Neighborhood Association chair Mary Walker was leaving work on Sunnyside Road and coming home, on the morning of July 23, she noticeed a column of thick, dark smoke rising up in the north.

“As I drove north and got closer to home,” Walker told us as we watched the blaze from her front yard, “I thought it was coming from the airport or from Vancouver. But when I arrived in Parkrose, I could clearly see the fire and smoke coming up from the industrial area, a block north of NE Sandy Boulevard.”

Firefighters pour two streams of water on the fire from the same ladder rig.

Smoke seen for miles
Walker wasn’t the only one who noticed the smoke from the fire that broke out at Buckaroo Thermoseal, a 40-year-old roofing and insulation installation company on NE 109th Avenue near NE Marx Street about 10 a.m. that morning.

The conflagration grew so quickly that, as the smoke boiled into the cool, overcast sky, it formed a partial mushroom cloud, darkening the area. Freeway traffic on I-205 slowed to look at the growing commercial fire.

Heavy damage was sustained by the roofing firm, but Portland Fire & Rescue (PF&R) crew members worked diligently to keep an affiliated company, A and B Sheet Metal, from also going up in flames. On either side of the lot were stories-high piles of wood chips, also spared from burning.

From the air, on the roof and on the ground, firefighters battle this industrial blaze.

Goes to three alarms
“The smoke everyone saw was generated by a free-burning fire in several different types of roofing materials,” explained PF&R spokesman, Lt. Allen Oswalt.

The first Battalion Chief on scene immediately called a second alarm to bring in more firefighting equipment and personnel. Shortly thereafter, a third alarm was called.

By 10:30 a.m., 13 engines, five trucks, six Chief Officers, and 80 firefighters from PF&R as well as the Gresham Fire Department were on scene, battling the inferno.

So many units were called to the scene; “reserve rigs” were called to provide service from stations vacated by this three-alarm fire.

“No evacuations were ordered, except for the areas immediately surrounding the fire,” Oswalt said. “Neighboring businesses were temporarily shut down, to allow firefighters access to the burning structure.”

“There were semi-trucks parked at the loading dock, and a 5,000 gallon diesel tank near the burning building,” Oswalt reported. “Another concern was keeping the fire from spreading, due to embers falling from the smoke column.”

Portland City Commissioner Nick Fish (in the white helmet) looks on as Fire Bureau Chief John Klum confers with the Battalion Chief managing the fire-fighting effort.

City Commissioner marvels at command structure
Portland City Commissioner Nick Fish, now in charge of overseeing PF&R, donned a turnout and helmet to get a first-hand look at how his bureau tackles a major conflagration.

As Fish walked into the fire scene with Chief John Klum, he said it seemed like being on the set of a Hollywood movie.

“All of the firefighters were moving into position, calmly and rapidly,” the newly-elected City Councilman recalled. “Observing the command structure in action is a marvel. The Chief and Deputy Chief were there as a resources, but the Battalion Chief was organizing and coordinating the effort.”

With piles of shredded wood three stories high on either side of the warehouse, firefighters have their hands full to keep this “kindling” from catching fire.

Fish also said he gained an appreciation of how well city bureaus and utilities work together. “The police provided traffic control, the Portland Water Bureau rerouted water to make sure firefighters had enough pressure, and Pacific Power promptly arrived to cut power to the site.”

The Commissioner said he met the company’s owner at the site. “Naturally, he was distressed by the fire, but said he, too, was impressed firefighting effort. We tend to take our fire bureau for granted – but this is another example of why Portland Fire & Rescue is best in the country.”

So is the fire, this steel warehouse is melting like plastic.

Smoke fills the air as firefighters use all available water, piped in through miles of hoses, to douse the flames and keep the fire from spreading.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

See what happened when 70 folks from the East Portland Chamber of Commerce drove, chipped, and putted their way around the golf course, as they networked …

Chamber president, Rich Sorem, presents the trophy bowl to the winners of the 2008 East Portland Chamber of Commerce Golf Tourney, “Team Gresham Ford” members Bob Avila and David Shepherd. Team members Gabe Godwin and Ian Heffeneider were not available for the photo.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
The 2008 East Portland Chamber of Commerce Golf Tourney is now in the history books – and it appeared as if all of those who participated came out winners.

The weather was perfect for a fine round of golf at the Colwood National Golf Course in outer East Portland, located at the southern edge of Portland International Airport.

Here, showing off the brand new Mustang offered in the “Hole-in-One” contest sponsored by Richard Kiely’s Home Run Graphics, are Gail Kiely of Home Run Graphics and Ginny Sorem.

On the course, players of all skill ranges drove, chipped – and some even pitched – the ball around the course. The spirit of fellowship seemed to be more important than the competition.

Sadly, no golfer made a hole-in-one in the contest sponsored by Home Run Graphics, but every player tried their best to drive home the brand new, red Mustang put up by Richard Kiely as a prize in the event someone did.

After the tournament, participants tuck into a hamburger lunch buffet at the clubhouse.

Fun continues after play
After the duffers returned from the links, they were served a buffet luncheon. At the same time, participants bid on a wide range of silent-auction items, ranging from “sports legends” posters to GPS systems.

And, thanks to the help of the Chamber volunteers who set up and ran the tournament and the after-party, – the raffle awards were made at a lighting-fast pace! These volunteers includedc Pam Olson, Holly Moss, David

Ashton, Richard Kiely, Margo Marver, Bob Rubin, JoLynn Walker, Kate Kaufman, Norm Rice, Tom Rich, Max Corona, Vicki Moser and Judy Leach.

Over 70 golfers, lots of volunteers, and good food and drinks made for a memorable day for all who came out to Colwood for the benefit event.

Tournament Photo Album

On the course, we greet the “NW Senior and Boomer News” team of Ray Padilla, Bob Buhrer, Clark Seeley, and Frank Ryan.

This group of happy golfers included Michael Sullivan of Capital M Lending, Dan LaGrande of LeGrande Public Relations, as well as Andre LaGrande, and Priscilla Hulin of “ATripTo.Com”.

The team of Casey Ryan, Dana Kelly, and Kirk Jenson from Riverview Community Bank are on the links, running a “Green for Green” contest – which supported Snow Cap Charities to the tune of $531.

Annette Leoni of Classique Floors (“The best little floor store in town”) addresses the ball, and sends it flying toward the pin.

Kevin (“not your ordinary bean counter”) Minkoff drives one down the fairway.

Steven Anderson of 1st Class Properties, Greg Langford of Home Team Inspection Services, Tom Kerr of Kerr Properties Inc., and Norm Rice, Realtor with 1st Class Properties, were all having a great round of golf.

Pam Olson of Farmer’s Insurance, and Ken Turner, EPCC Government Affairs Chair, work to total up the golf scores.

More than 70 golfers participated in the event – and then enjoyed lunch!

Cathy Grubb, the Chamber’s executive secretary, takes a break for lunch from a helping produce the tournament to grab some well-deserved lunch.

Coming in at second place: The team of Rich Sorem, Kevin Minkoff, Skip Hayzlett, and Elliott West.

Third-place winners: Roger Stopa, Chuck Garner, Lauren Hill, and Jiles Ogles – last years first-place awardees.

Thanks to the sponsors
The Chamber thanks major sponsors Adventist Medical Center, Home Run Graphics, and Warren Allen LLP; and sponsors Riverview Community Bank, NW Senior & Boomer News, Portland Tribune, Ricoh Business Solutions, Eastport Plaza, and Stewart & Tunno Integrated Data Systems.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News