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

This band won’t be playing again until the fall – but here’s why you should watch for their listing in upcoming EastPDXNews.com Community Calendars …

Co-director Jay Burchak leads the mighty Portland Metro Concert Band in a rousing march.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
A couple of weeks ago, the parking lot outside of the Howard Horner Performing Arts Center on the campus of David Douglas High School was filling up, as patrons prepared to enjoy the Spring Concert of the Portland Metro Concert Band.

Now, the Metro Concert Band isn’t just a couple of musicians who toot tunes under a gazebo – this is a stage-sized ensemble of professional musicians who provide a first-class performance of widely varied musical selections.

This mighty band puts plays a wide variety of music very smartly.

At exactly 7:30 p.m., that summer evening, Co-director Jay Burchak raised his baton, and the concert was underway.

The program consisted of seven numbers. Under the baton of co-director Jay Burchak, the first half of the concert included a march by Jon Philip Sousa, a medley of Broadway tunes, a salute to big bands, and selections from the Broadway musical, “Oliver”.

During intermission, volunteers supply coffee and cookies as band and audience members mingle in the lobby.

Leading the band during the concert’s second half is co- Co-director Fev Pratt.

Co-director Fev Pratt took the baton after the intermission.

The band played six more selections, including portions of eight songs from the popular musical, “Annie”. The second half also featured the energetic Wagnerian classic, “Ride of the Valkyries”. This set closed with a fast-paced march that conjured up memories of attending the circus.

Although 250 people attended the concert, there was room for even more people to enjoy the fine music this great band presents.

It’s great to find terrific band music like this performed so well in the outer eastside of Portland. As word gets out about the band’s free shows – and the great refreshments during intermission – we suspect the auditorium might be filled at the next concert in the fall.

The Portland Metro Concert Band plays music of many genres, from the classics to popular show tunes.

Supported by donations
The band is supported by donations, including a grant from East Portland Neighbors, Inc., and by donations taken at the door.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

What will Randy Hutchinson be doing when school starts this fall? Find out the answer right here …

Standing in the doorway of his office at David Douglas High School for one of the last times, Randy Hutchinson says he looks forward to retirement.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
When the first school bell rings in September, life-long educator Randy Hutchinson says he hopes to be fishing. Hutchinson won’t be playing hooky, mind you; the life-long educator is retiring from his post as Principal at David Douglas High School.

“I started out in Portland Public Schools in 1974,” Hutchinson reminisces.  “From there I went to Sandy and stayed for 20 years before coming to David Douglas High in 1995. It’s been a great run; yes, it’s been a great run. And yes, I’m looking forward to retiring, very much so.”

At the end-of-school-year barbecue, more than 300 teachers and support staff members gather to give Hutchinson a warm send-off – and to have a great lunch! Volunteers from the David Douglas High Parent Teacher Student Association prepare and serve the meal.

Maintains high standards
We ask Hutchinson what he considers his greatest challenge to have been, moving from Vice Principal to the top spot at the school in the past few years.

“It was tough to follow in his footsteps of our school’s previous Principal, John Herrington, because he did such a phenomenal job,” Hutchinson replies. “Our entire staff has worked hard to make sure we maintain the high standards he set. We’ve continued to accomplish that. That’s why I feel good about retiring now.”

Shane Sykes, Melissa Meeks and Rachel Burggraff from the SE 122nd & Stark Street Burgerville restaurant are cooking up burgers for the event.

Providing meaningful education
Most significant, Hutchinson says, is that the school’s staff has stayed true to their mission and vision. “We’re headed in the right direction; we’ve maintained the integrity of our high academic standards and graduation requirements,” smiles Hutchinson.

“Our kids – 70% of whom are in poverty – 90% of them are going on to post-secondary education – that is phenomenal.” Additionally, Hutchinson says that Oregon higher education studies show that, of those David Douglas students who go into the universities, after a year and a half most of them are still in school. “These are all great numbers. We have a great staff and great kids – you can’t ask for more than that.”

Randy Hutchinson shares a light moment with staff members at the luncheon.

‘Kids are kids’
We ask Hutchinson if, during his educational career, he’s seen changes in schools over the years.

“Nothing has really changed,” Hutchinson replies. “Kids are kids. Trends come and go, but the reality is that they all need the same thing: Caring adults in their life, who push them further than they think they’re capable of going. I think we have a school full of teachers who are doing that well.”

Hutchinson gives DDHS PTSA outgoing president Karen Britton a plaque for her service. “I really appreciate all of your support over the years,” Britton says. “I’ll still be involved, and I look forward to helping out our new president coming on board. Please support the new president as you’ve supported me.”

Thanks community for support
Hutchinson goes on, saying that instead of being thanked for his service, it’s he who thanks the community for their support. We ask him what he’d like to say directly to the people in the school district.

“It’s been a real honor to serve you and your students,” responds Hutchinson.  “Our parents are incredibly supportive, and that makes all the difference in the world. It makes a difference when you call home and get a positive response; having the trust of the parents is very important. They reflect that by the way they vote [on bond issues]. It’s been a great place to be.”

As part of the farewell gathering, PTSA board member James Hollett gives Hutchison a wrapped and heavy gift. It turns out to be a brick – which will be engraved, and installed under the school’s flagpole in recognition of his service to the school.

Plans outdoor adventures
If Hutchinson puts as much energy into outdoor sports as he has into being a good Principal, fish and fowl in the region have much to fear.

“I love the out of doors,” Hutchinson tells us with a big smile. “I love to fish, and fly fishing is a definite passion of mine. And I love to do some game bird hunting.”

Hutchinson adds, “the best salmon runs in Alaska are in September and October – months that are critical to getting the school year off to a good start.” Those are months he’s never been able to fish in – and now he will!

New principal chosen
According to officials at the David Douglas School District, John Bier has been named the school’s new Principal. Bier has worked in the district for about 19 years, and was Vice Principal at David Douglas High.

Teachers and staff members sign the guest book (bottom left corner), and write their farewell messages to Hutchison, at the event.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Wow! The only way to get a plot at this outer NE Portland Community Garden is to hope a farmer there drops out! See what all the fuss is about …

In the shadow of the “famous” Hazelwood water tower, Sharon Ducy tends her garden.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
At one time, the property under the Hazelwood water tower was a fenced-off field, sitting unused.

Then, along came Portland City Commissioner Randy Leonard, who transformed the unused Hazelwood Water building into the neighborhood coalition’s headquarters – and the field behind it into a park-like setting called the Hazelwood Hydro-Park.

Now, in cooperation with the Portland Water Bureau, Portland Parks & Recreation (PP&R) has opened a Community Garden on the site.

Leslie Pohl-Kosbau, Community Gardens Director for PP&R, and parks advocate Linda Robinson welcome people to the new Community Garden in Hazelwood.

Plots snapped up quickly
On opening day, a couple of weeks ago, we learned from PP&R Community Gardens Director Leslie Pohl-Kosbau that all of the 27 plots had already been spoken for.

“But, there may be some people who drop out during the year,” commented Pohl-Kosbau. “Some people move away; others find it’s too much work. Citywide, there over 750 people waiting to get into a community garden.”

Naomi Olin waters plants on her Community Garden Plot in Hazelwood.

Neighbor Naomi Olin said she lives close by, and likes the idea of a community garden. “It’s fun to be a part of the community, and share some involvement with of our neighbors.”

Sharon Ducy, who lives near Glendoveer Golf Course, said she was happy to have gotten one of the 27 20′ x 20′ garden plots. “I’m planting Swiss chard, green beans, tomatoes, cucumbers, potatoes, onions, peppers, and hot peppers. It’s much better to grow food yourself; I love to garden.”

Painting the new “barn” at the Hazelwood Community Garden is Darcy Cronin, Portland Water Bureau Facilities Services Specialist.

Pohl-Kosbau said the Parks Bureau is working to develop more capacity in outer East Portland. “We’re developing gardens; the demand is huge. It’s harder to find land in the inner core of the city.”

Find out more
If you want to get on the waiting list, or learn more, call PP&R (503) 823-1612.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

If you haven’t checked it out, look at the all the fresh fruit and produce coming to this market, located at Parkrose High School …

Market master Steve Voorhees, of Parkrose Farmers Market, samples some of the fresh cherries now on sale.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
The newest farmers market to open in outer East Portland – the Parkrose Farmers Market – has only been open for 12 days now.

So says market master, Steve Voorhees, who adds, “Of course, we’re only open on Saturdays!”

While the market got off to a good start, attendance briefly lagged, Voorhees tells us, “due to the poor early growing season. Our numbers are now strong.”

Kevin Herbst and Dru Gorman of Maryhill Orchards urge market visitors to sample their luscious fruits.

Halfway through new season
Now that crops are coming in, the number of vendors – 47 of them, including nine produce growers – are up, and so are the number of shoppers.

“We’re about halfway through the season,” Voorhees says. “Right now, the hearty produce is starting to pick up now and the crowds are coming in. We hope for a thousand visitors today,” he predicts at the July 12 market.

Maria Theresa Gonzalez and Sandra Deleon are serving up corn and chicken tamales.

“We got the hearty produce coming in like the zucchini squash,” the market master grins. “We also are seeing radishes, and hopefully peppers will be coming in next week. Apricot season has started, and cherries are coming in – so are raspberries, blackberries and blueberries. Hermiston melons will be coming in soon, too.”

Jammin’ at the market are The Rewinders – they’re great and back in August playing a mix of folk, blues and rock music, from the 50s up to today’s music.

Entertainment – and contests – for all
In addition to produce and hand-made items, Voorhees mentions that the market continues to feature live music every week: Zimba Marimba play during the July 19 market he says. Plus, there are always children’s activities provided for the little shoppers that come along to the market.

“Be sure to mention this,” Voorhees interjects. “We’ve got our First Annual Baking Contest coming up on August 16. The entry is free, and you could win a $20 gift certificate if you bring the winning bread, cake or pie.”

You’ll need to be at the market at 10 a.m. to participate; the entries will be judged by Portland Fire & Rescue “calendar guys”, he adds.

Look for this sign at the Parkrose Festival & Cruise-in on August 2.

Market moves on August 2
For one Saturday only, on August 2, the market will move to downtown Parkrose, and will be part of the Parkrose Festival & Cruise-in. “Instead of competing with this great community event, we are becoming part of it. Come check out your local farmers market.”

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

See why this outer East Portland company has developed a worldwide reputation for making a great product – as well as repute for being a great local employer …

Tim Leatherman, the acknowledged inventor of the “Multi-tool” and founder of Leatherman Tool Group, proudly shows one of his latest tools, the CHARGE®.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Even though there’s plenty of space still available in outer East Portland along the Airport Way corridor, there are few manufacturers in this part of town.

But, thriving Leatherman Tool Group – with a worldwide reputation for making great products – observed a milestone on July 11th.

“We’re celebrating 25 years of being born, bred, and thriving, here in outer East Portland,” said the firm’s marketing communications manager, Juli Warner.

Arising from the simple desire for a multipurpose easy-to-carry tool, an international company with more than 400 employees was born.

Starts with a bad knife spoiling a holiday
At the company’s anniversary party, Warner told us the business started in the early 1970s, when Tim Leatherman on a honeymoon trip Europe. “The car he was driving kept breaking down, and he was frustrated with his pocket knife. It wasn’t useful to fix things on the road. He started dreaming up and sketching out ideas for what he called a ‘multi-tool’.”

When Leatherman got back to this country, it took him about ten years to develop his idea into a product, Warner went on. “In 1983, he incorporated Leatherman Tool Group with his first sale to Cabelas, the largest outfitter of hunting, fishing, and outdoor gear in the world.”

Tim Leatherman custom-engraves tools for guests.

Proud of loyal employees and customers
Instead of “working” the birthday event by schmoozing visiting dignitaries and guests, Leatherman quietly sat at a table outside his 90,000 sq. ft. facility, where he graciously engraved tools – old or new, made by his company – for guests who came up to greet him.

“25 years is a long time to be in business,” Leatherman looked up and commented. “I’m really proud we’re still in business. I’m proud of the great employees we have, that enable us to stay in business. And, I’m really thankful for all the loyal customers we have.”

The company’s founder mentioned that these tools are available in 85 countries. “This now includes Mongolia.”

Speaking quietly, Leatherman continued, “We started a company just a few blocks away from here. My partner’s father’s business originally housed us. When we outgrew that space, we moved here to NE Ainsworth Circle, and we plan to stay here. The business started out small; we now have a little over 400 employees.”

Asked about the company’s future, Leatherman said simply, “I look for continued growth during the next 25 years. I look forward to seeing us continue to make good high quality products here in Portland, Oregon.”

Portland Mayor Tom Potter congratulates Tim Leatherman on the success of his company.

Mayor commends company
One of the dignitaries present at the firm’s celebration was Portland Mayor Tom Potter.

“I’m happy to be here; it’s a real honor that they have their headquarters and manufacturing facilities here in East Portland,” Potter said. “It’s the kind of manufacturing company we like to have here in Portland. They’re very conscious of the environment, and contribute to the community.”

In addition to providing family-wage jobs, Potter added, “they make a quality tool that is used all over the world. It says a lot about them, and their firm reflects positively on Portland.”

Constantly upgrading procedures
Warner confirmed the company does provide good family-wage jobs. “Leatherman Tool Group has one of the best compensation packages you’ll find. We’re constantly refining our manufacturing methods and procedures. For example, we use ‘lean manufacturing’ practices that allow us to keep jobs here, instead of sending work overseas.”

Guests at the anniversary celebration were treated to a full barbeque luncheon.

Leatherman’s “10 Rules for Success”
After those attending the celebration enjoyed a catered barbecue luncheon, Leatherman stepped up and retold a couple of “tool tales” – stories related to him about how his tools were used in unusual circumstances.

Then, the company founder gave his “10 Rules for Success”:

1. Set goals.
2. Persevere.
3. Learn what you need to know as you go along.
4. Pay attention to details.
5. Delight your customers.
6. Hire good people.
7. Treat your employees well.
8. Have fun.
9. Make money.

At this point, Leatherman admitted he only listed nine rules and added, “I’m still looking for that 10th one to make us REALLY successful!”

These fans of Leatherman Tools, Hjalmar and Ninne Nielsen, say they planned their vacation in the USA so they could visit the factory, and are delighted to be part of the celebration.

Leatherman fans travel from Denmark
If a prize were given for celebrants who traveled the greatest distance to attend the company’s 25th Anniversary, it would be presented to Hjalmar and Ninne Nielsen.

“Yes, we are visiting here from Denmark,” Hjalmar told us. “A friend gave me a Leatherman tool five or six years ago. Today, I say ‘how is it possible to live 50 years without a Leatherman multi-tool?’  I have it in my pocket every day.”

We congratulate this fine outer East Portland company on their success – and, yes – we carry one of their tools in our camera bag every day!

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

We’re not sure of the cause of this smash-up – but the result was a startling accident. No one walked away from this one …

Portland Fire & Rescue’s Station 11 firefighters rush to cut open a car and remove the injured patient. As bad as it looks, authorities say the driver apparently wasn’t badly injured.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Imagine driving north on SE 82nd Ave. of Roses on a bright, sunny summer afternoon – then seeing the car in front of you cross over the lanes and collide, head-on, with oncoming traffic.

This experience occurred to motorist and witness Xavi Cortal on June 15 just after 1:30 p.m. Cortal told us the story began as he passed SE Flavel Street.

“We were in the car immediately behind him,” Cortal tells us, referring to a crumpled purple Dodge automobile, now blocking 82nd Avenue. “We were going northbound on SE 82nd Avenue, about 100 feet behind him. It looked like he was dozing off.”

SE 82nd Ave. of Roses was shut down while Portland Fire & Rescue crews pried victims out of their vehicles, mangled by the offset-head-on crash.

Cortal says he became concerned about the driver’s behavior. “He veered a little bit into the center lane, and then came back into his own lane.”

Between SE Knapp Street and SE Ogden Street, the unthinkable happened. “He did it again, but this time, veered all the way over into the other lane. There was a white car coming south; the [Dodge] car hit him head on.”

The accident wasn’t the fault of the driver being loaded into the ambulance – but officials discovered he was driving without a license or insurance.

Stays to help
While others called 9-1-1 on their cell phones, witnesses said Cortal – seeing that he couldn’t help the occupants of the cars, because the vehicles were so badly damaged – started directing traffic to keep others from running into now-mangled cars. “It was the best I could do,” he commented.

Firefighters had a big job on their hands prying the doors open and preparing to remove the driver who was said by officials to have caused the pile-up.

Reasons for crash remain unknown
Hoping to get a better idea of why the crash occurred, we contacted Portland Police Bureau spokesman Sgt. Brian Schmautz to ask what was in the accident report.

“The collision occurred at 1:39 pm, when 86-year-old Ed Niemeyer, who was driving a Dodge northbound on S.E. 82nd Avenue, drifted into the oncoming lane, and collided with a Toyota driven by 31-year-old Labis Kragaris,” reported Schmautz.

“Niemeyer was transported but was not seriously injured. Niemeyer was cited for failing to maintain a lane of travel, and Kragaris was cited for driving without an operator’s license and driving without proof of insurance,” Schmautz added.

As bad as this wreck looks, officials say neither driver was seriously injured.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Portland residents are safer because of Chief Dave Sprando’s efforts; go with us, here, to his farewell event held at the Portland Fire & Rescue training station in Parkrose …

After 31 years of service, outgoing Portland Fire & Rescue Chief Dave Sprando is given a hearty sendoff by former firefighter – and Portland City Commissioner – Randy Leonard at the retirement event.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
It’s no secret that we’re fans of the men and women who serve our city every day at Portland Fire & Rescue (PF&R). Ask anyone whose home or life has been saved – they’ll agree that our firefighters are the best.

Chief Sprando’s contributions
We know what firefighters do – they rescue folks, and put out fires. We asked Lt. Allen Oswalt, PF&R spokesman, to tell us about how retiring Chief Dave Sprando contributed to the bureau at his retirement reception held at the Portland Fire & Rescue training station in Parkrose not long ago.

“Among other assignments, Dave Sprando was an officer here in outer East Portland, at Station 2, in Parkrose, where we do our training,” Oswalt began.

“He had a direct hand in improving our bureau when he was the Training Officer. Sprando was absolutely convinced that a better-trained firefighter is a safer firefighter. And, a safer firefighter is a better asset to the residents of the City of Portland.

“In addition to good training, we provide recruits a full 10 months of training – longer than any other department in the Pacific Northwest.”

Sprando also had a big role in acquiring new equipment, Oswalt added. “Our job is inherently dangerous. He made the case for better equipment – like new air tanks – to the Portland City Council, and gained their approval.”

Instead of handing over the “keys to the firehouse” – we catch outgoing Fire Chief Dave Sprando handing the official pager and cell phone to incoming Chief John Klum.

Welcoming Fire Chief John Klum
At the reception, we also met the incoming PF&R Chief, John Klum – a 30-year veteran of the force.

Klum was the captain at the HazMat Unit stationed at Station 7 SE 122nd Avenue for nine years, Oswalt told us.

“Back then, Portland Police and Multnomah County Sheriffs were taking down a lot of meth labs – cleaning up seven or eight of them a week.”

More recently, Klum has served as Fire Marshal for the City of Portland.

“Every firefighter, down the line, has the greatest confidence that Klum will continue the tradition of support for the men and women in the bureau – and excellence in fire and rescue services for the citizens of Portland,” Oswalt confided.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Are the aches and pains of getting older getting you down? See what this Adventist Medical Center professional prescribes – and it isn’t more pills …

Health educator Sherrie Evenson demonstrates how simple “resistance bands” can improve body tone – and overall health.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
As most folks hit their 50s, they start noticing more aches and pains – and not paying attention to what your body is telling you can lead to a rapid decline in health, says Sherrie Evenson, MS, Exercise Science.

“The most important thing I can tell folks is that the only way to keep your parts moving is to move them,” Evenson tells us, as she prepares to give a talk at Adventist Medical Center based on her new book and DVD entitled “Moving Parts”.

The deconditioning downward spiral
Evenson, who works at the medical center as cardio-pulmonary rehabilitation specialist, says she too-often sees patients’ overall health decline rapidly as their physical activity decreases.

“When people age, they may start feeling chronic pain in their back and hips, shoulders and feet,” Evenson tells us. “The tendency is to avoid movement because it hurts. And when one avoids movement, one starts to experience de-conditioning. Your body adapts to the lack of movement.  Then, you feels even more pain from the reduction of movement.  This leads to a spiral of de-conditioning.”

A lot of the pain that people experience, Evenson explains, comes from activities of everyday life – how one stands, walks, and sits.

With the help of a seminar participant, Sherrie Evenson shows correct posture for a person while bending over.

The posture prescription
“Many problems are posture related,” asserts Evenson. “One approach is to help people become aware of their posture as they stand, sit, walk, and lift objects.”

In addition to that, Evenson says that simple exercises allow you to move in a way that won’t aggravate the pain. “The bottom line is that your joints have to keep moving to be functional. What we’re doing is helping people find ways to move that are not going to aggravate their pain.”

This health educator says that people – especially those who are 40 and above – need to learn how to use their muscles to carry themselves and lift objects, instead of putting pressure on their joints, and using their skeleton as a lever.

“A lot of people end up letting their muscles relax, and their joints take the hit. People don’t see the value of exercise and being aware of good posture and improper use of momentum and balance till they start having problems,” Evenson elucidates.

Evenson shows how simple exercises can help people become more aware of using their muscles – instead of using their joints – as levers.

“A lot of this doesn’t have anything to do with exercise – instead, it is making sure that we use the support system that we have: The over 600 muscles in our body.”

Outlines simple program
At the free seminar, Evenson illustrates her points by demonstrating how muscle groups work together, showing the principles of good posture, and revealing simple strength-training exercises.

If you missed her program, you can check it out – by getting both the “Moving Parts” book and DVD for $35. “It’s cheaper than a single medical office visit,” quips Evenson.

To learn more, visit her web site: CLICK HERE.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

See why Lents area residents and their friends gathered for dinner at the New Copper Penny for this special event …

Roger Jones and Nancy Chapin are being checked in by Jess Laventall and Dewey Akers as the Annual Lents Summer Concert Series Benefit Dinner gets underway at the New Copper Penny restaurant.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
When we saw folks streaming into the New Copper Penny Pantheon Ballroom on SE 92nd Avenue between SE Foster Road and SE Woodstock Boulevard a couple of weeks ago, we knew it was time, once again, for the annual benefit – confirmed by the greeting we received.

“Welcome to our Lents Summer Concert Series Benefit Dinner,” smiled Dewey Akers, Lents Neighborhood Association Chair.

“This is a fundraiser for our music series,” explained Akers. “It’s going to be fabulous this year – centered both on American folk music and world folk music.”

Judy Welch, former Lents Neighborhood Chair and community supporter, and John Tzantarmas manager of the New Copper Penny, pause for a moment.

Woody Guthrie commemorated
One weekend of the August music series will be devoted to Woody Guthrie. “A lot of people don’t know it, but he was a Lents resident when he wrote for the Bureau of Public Works Administration,” Akers explained. “Two other events will be presenting some tremendous folk artists. What we want to do is create a ‘folk festival’ – a music series in a park venue, unique in Portland.”

This annual benefit dinner is also a fundraiser for upcoming Lents Founders Day events. Additionally, some of the funds will support the neighborhood’s “Movies in the Park”, and support live entertainment at the Lents International Farmers Market.

Karen Young, executive director of Leach Botanical Garden, and Metro Counselor Robert Liberty come to lend their support for this “I Love Lents” community event.

Event strengthens community bonds
The host of the event, John Tzantarmas – who, along with his father, owns the venerated New Copper Penny Restaurant – said he enjoys putting on the event.

“I think it’s great,” Tzantarmas beamed. “Every time we get the neighborhood together, it’s a good thing. Events like this bring neighbors together to talk with one another. Neighbors can talk with business people, and mingle with our community partners as well.”

We asked why business owners host community events like this. Tzantarmas replied, “In our business, we are part of the community; we’ve been here for 35 years and seen it grow and change. We’re in the hospitality business, and we like helping out the community that has supported us for so long.”

Ready to feast on a great three-course dinner, prepared for the benefit by the New Copper Penny Restaurant, is Leslie Hildula and Erika Miller.

Dinner and a show
After being served a three-course dinner, attendees were serenaded by folk musicians, and were awarded raffle prizes provided by local business people.

Metro Counselor Robert Liberty commented at the benefit, “I’m delighted to attend; I haven’t been an event quite like this before. This is a good sign of a healthy community. Having events like this shows real support by and for the community. Plus it’s just fun.”

Look for information regarding the Lents concerts, movies, and Founder’s Day activities in our August, 2008, Community calendar. Or, for more information online, CLICK HERE.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News