Portland City Commissioner Sam Adams hasn’t missed a Midway Business Association open house. See what he had to say at the latest one …

“Mmmm, good pizza,” says Mayor-elect and Portland City Commissioner Sam Adams, at the Midway Business Association open house.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
A hearty band of business people in the southern portion of outer East Portland created the Midway Business Association with a mission: to encourage folks to buy locally, and improve the livability of their neighborhoods.

Every year, the organization hosts an open house and pizza luncheon at Bill Dayton’s Pizza Baron restaurant, as an outreach to business people and neighborhood leaders. And, every year, first a candidate, then a Portland City Commissioner, and now Mayor-elect Sam Adams has attended the event.

Working the room, Sam Adams meets new member Kyle Ziegler, owner of Carrie B’s Dance Shop, located in the Midway Shopping Center, as East Portland Chamber of Commerce Governmental Affairs chair Ken Turner looks on.

“I’m pleased to say I’ve been every event since the inception of the organization,” Adams said as he talked briefly to the forty business people in attendance. “I look forward to coming back in the coming months and having a substantive discussion about how city government can be a partner with you.”

Adams congratulated the association for “doing a fantastic job here. The results are noticeable.  I know that folks are going through tough times with this recession; I know people don’t have as much money to spend. Hang in there, and together we’ll pull ourselves out of this and enjoy better days ahead.”

Recognizing the current downturn in business, Sam Adams urges business people to work together toward better days.

Adams added that he was glad that the City government finally “came to its senses” and provided the umbrella organization for business groups, the Alliance of Neighborhood Business Associations (APNBA) with funding and full time staff members. Pointing out the APNBA’s Executive Director, Jon Turino, Adams added, “We’re making sure Jon has the resources necessary to help business associations grow.”

Heading off to another meeting, Adams took a couple of slices with him and promised, “I’ll be back to visit with you again.”

Midway Business Association president Bill Dayton reminded those present that, by working together, outer East Portland business people and neighbors can have a greater voice in local, regional and event state-level government.

“If we keep working together, we can improve the lives of everyone here in outer East Portland,” Dayton said.

Association President Bill Dayton, talks informally about the benefits of mutual association.

Next meeting is July 8
If you have business interests in this part of town, come learn all about this new business group dedicated to helping neighbors and businesses improve the southern end of Outer East Portland.

This month: David Edwards, speaking about keeping your business safe in troubled times. Remember, visitors ARE welcome, and the presentation is free (but you pay for your own lunch). The meeting runs from 11:45 AM until 1 PM at Bill Dayton’s PIZZA BARON Restaurant on SE 122nd Avenue, just south of Division Street. For more information, go to www.midwayba.com.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Find out where this year’s Portland Habitat for Humanity “Building Blitz” took place – and why families appreciate the new homes …

Maria Eby of Portland Habitat for Humanity, new homeowner Juana Nene, and Habitat for Humanity board member Susie Vischer here pause for a moment, as the 2008 Building Blitz is in full swing.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
What was only a vacant lot a few weeks ago is now a small development of single-family houses occupied by their new owners – not renters.

“Welcome to our 2008 Home Building Blitz,” we were greeted Maria Eby, Portland Habitat for Humanity Marketing and Special Events Manager. We were on the building site at SE Ogden Street, just west of SE 82nd Avenue of Roses.

This “blitz”, Eby said, was the local manifestation of an international event created by Habitat for Humanity. “We’re building five homes in seven days, with the help of five professional homebuilders. At the same time, other groups around the country will build a total of 263 homes. This means that, nationally, more than 1,000 people will be moving out of substandard housing into their new home.”

Construction workers and tradesmen of all kinds swarm over the East Portland building site.

Not a handout
The potential homeowners who come into the Habitat for Humanity program are currently living in substandard housing conditions, Eby said. “We give people who earn lower incomes the chance to become first-time homeowners.”

But, this program isn’t a form of welfare, she added. “This is absolutely not a handout; it’s actually a hand up,” explained Eby.

First, the participants must qualify, meaning they must have steady employment and good credit. “Once they are accepted into the program, they put in 500 hours of ‘sweat equity’ or community service on habitat projects. Then, they buy the home from us, with a ‘0% interest’ mortgage,” Eby continued.

Geoff Schumacher of Schumacher Custom Homes confers with furnace specialist Brad Bassitt, with Bassitt Heating, about the placement of ductwork in the new Habitat for Humanity home they’re building.

Pro builders volunteer services
Five teams of building contractors raced through the week to finish their assigned home on time.

One of the builders, Geoff Schumacher of Schumacher Custom Homes, took a moment to tell us why he was involved in the project. “We heard about the Blitz in ’06 – we took a look, and saw it as a great project, and wanted to get involved,” he said.

Schumacher said he was happy to be able to give back to the community. “And, the part I like best about my job – on an everyday basis – is handing the keys over to the new homeowner.”

What a difference a week makes! Just seven days later, these homes are finished, and ready for their new owners to move in.

Payments recycle into new houses
Because their mortgage payments are a maximum of 30% of the family’s income, Eby said, the housing is affordable. 100% of their mortgage payment on their house goes toward the equity – and it’s usually less than their rent payment had been. “They’re able to create a future for themselves that they’ve never been able to create before.”

Participants’ mortgage payments go into a rotating fund at Habitat for Humanity, allowing the organization to fund the building of more new homes, Eby explained.

Looks forward to spacious quarters
New homeowner Juana Nene took a break from working on her house. “Today I’m very nervous and excited. My sons have come today to work on my new house. It seems almost impossible; now I have a better future, and more room. Mucho moi bien.”

Juana Nene accepts the keys to her family’s new home from Sam Portesi of Buena Vista Custom Homes.

Seven days later …
A week later, we stopped back in at the site to see the dedication ceremony. One by one, the families came up and received keys to their new homes from the builder who coordinated its construction.

When it came time for Juana Nene to take the keys from Sam Portesi of Buena Vista Custom Homes, she asked that a prepared statement be read, because she was too nervous to speak:

“Even though we waited a few years, it’s been worth the wait. Thank you to all the companies and workers who donated their time and material to construct my house. This house was motivation for my son, José, to graduate from high school. Thank you very much. I really don’t have enough words to say thank you, and God bless you.”

Mt. Hood and Portland Habitat for Humanity merged
Then, few days ago, the organization announced that Portland Habitat for Humanity and Mt. Hood Habitat for Humanity have joined forces to become a single, larger, and more-effective organization.  This newly formed affiliate, “Habitat for Humanity Portland/Metro East”, will serve the cities of Portland and Gresham, including all of Multnomah County and North Clackamas County.

Judith Huck, President of Classique Floors and previously board chair of Mt. Hood Habitat for Humanity, will serve as chair of the newly formed affiliate.

Find out more about this great organization by visiting www.pdxhabitat.org.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

We caught members of the American Legion Auxiliary #1 in the act of providing the unrestrained hospitality denied to sailors visiting downtown. Check out this exclusive story …

Bob White, 2nd Vice President of American Legion Post #1 (seated), and Cheryl Fulton, member of American Legion Auxiliary #1 (standing, being hugged), welcome sailors to their Post, during the Rose Festival’s Fleet Week.

Story and photo by David F. Ashton
At last! One of the secret stories of the just-completed 2008 Portland Rose Festival can now be told.

Since 1924, the Portland Rose Festival has welcomed sailors from all countries to the annual event. That’s no secret.

Although the naval fleets have shrunk in size – and many ships have grown too large to navigate the Willamette River – four US Navy ships, five US Coast Guard vessels, and sailors from other ships tied up to the seawall, all were downtown during “fleet week”, and offered Portlanders tours of their ships.

Military support organizations operated a “hospitality center” for visiting sailors located at a SW Front Street hotel. But, and here’s something you probably haven’t heard – that facility was purchased and remodeled last year, and the new owners made it clear that their new highbrow clientele wouldn’t appreciate military folks on their property. Portland’s hospitality hung in the balance.

Volunteer grillmaster at the American Legion Post #1, Grant Talmadge, tends the hot dogs.

East Portland American Legion steps up
The good reputation of the Rose City was rescued by the friendship of American Legion Post and Auxiliary #1 on SE 122nd Avenue in the Mill Park neighborhood. They’ve been hosting visiting military folks – including sailors during Fleet Week – for years, in tandem with the downtown location, and have even won awards for it.

This year, with the sudden absence of downtown hospitality, the organization stepped up its efforts, and in outer East Portland, catered the only party there was for visiting sailors.

Cheryl Fulton, a member of American Legion Auxiliary #1, told the story.

“For years, I was involved with the hospitality room for our visiting service people downtown during the Portland Rose Festival,” said Fulton. “We decided to create an activity on Rose Festival Saturday, because there were no other functions for them. Seven years ago, I suggested that we do a hamburger and hot dog barbecue party for them here at the Post.”

Helping to grill up some of the 450 hamburgers consumed during the Rose Festival hospitality mission are Don Mitchell and John Peterson.

Idea slowly builds
The first year, only six sailors accepted their invitation. “We wondered whether or not this was a good idea, but we’ve persisted over the years. Last year we hosted 209 visitors; with the lack of downtown hospitality – we’ll surpass that number this year,” related Fulton.

Bob White, the Post’s 2nd Vice President, said he’s in charge of the food logistics. “With the help of our shifts of volunteer cooks, and twenty Auxiliary members, we’ll be serving 400 hot dogs in 450 hamburgers today. It’s a lot of food, but it’s a great cause. We love having the Navy guys and gals come out.”

Reser’s Fine Foods donated salads to the project, Franz Bakery gave the Post bread and buns, and many members made special dishes at home and brought them in, Fulton added.

Spiriting sailors to SE 122nd Avenue
It’s a long way from Tom McCall Park to Mill Park, so the Post – with the help of Enterprise Car Rentals – ran two shuttle vans driven by a cadre of ten volunteer drivers, starting at noon and ending at 11 p.m.

“They sure put on a great party,” said Jack Morrison from the guided-missile frigate USS Gary. “Going out for drinks and dinner at a restaurant costs more than most sailors can afford. We all appreciate this American Legion Post for showing us the ‘real’ hospitality of Portland.”

Officials in the Navy appreciate the gesture of friendship; the Post has been officially recognized for their work by the U.S. Navy Third Fleet three years running.

Post Commander, Tom Fulton, arrives back at the Post after driving sailors from their ship to the party in Mill Park.

Paying it forward
As we were ready to leave for our next assignment, we met the Commander of the Post, Tom Fulton, who was coming in from driving a shuttle van run.

“When I was in the military, my superiors gave me a helping hand to make sure that I do well. When we help our servicemen enjoy their visit to Portland, they will, hopefully, remember our hospitality. Then, when they retire, perhaps they’ll ‘pay it forward’ by offering hospitality to those in active duty.”

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

See why the number of prostitutes working 82nd Avenue has skyrocketed. And, the tragic news is that even more of these “sex workers” aren’t even old enough to drive …

In outer East Portland, the prostitution trade isn’t plied in the dead of night. Working without fear, most prostitutes – like this woman, later arrested, and charged with soliciting prostitution – openly troll for customers in the light of day.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
A couple of weeks ago, we told you how – even though it’s vastly understaffed – the Portland Police Bureau Drug & Vice Division (DVD) goes after the fifty or so local sex-for-sale pushers, commonly known as pimps.

We learned from Sgt. Doug Justice, the man who currently heads DVD, how their three-person “division” targets pimps who are promoting prostitution using underage girls.

“Even though we see it on the rise, we don’t have the manpower to go after street-level prostitution,” Justice added. “We leave that to the precincts.

Although a little blurry because this photo was taken at a great distance and through glass, the john looks jolly to be making a deal for a street-side sex act, just off SE 82nd Avenue of Roses. He didn’t look happy for long.

Local action heats up
On any afternoon or evening these days, along 82nd Avenue of Roses, it seems like we’re seeing more and more “girls on the stroll” – prostitutes, slowly walking along, or hanging out at bus stops as bus after bus rolls by.

“It’s not your imagination,” says Portland Police Bureau East Precinct Officer Rich Steinbronn who, along with Officer Michael Gallagher and a team of cops, is working a prostitution mission. “Prostitution has been steadily increasing – and with nice weather, it’s really taken off. Typically they really don’t like working in the rain. But if they’re forced to, they’ll work in any kind of weather.”

It isn’t necessarily the way these prostitutes wear their hair, dress, or are made up that makes them stand out as being different from female pedestrians – as we learn from Gallagher, as we watch the action on 82nd Avenue, while hidden in an undercover police vehicle. “Normally, women who walk along a street don’t keep looking around trying to make eye contact with passing cars,” he says.

After the undercover officer gives the signal, she walks away and the “custody team” of uniformed officers rush the man about to be charged with soliciting prostitution.

Prostitution reduces ‘quality of life’
As we wait for officers and decoys to get into position, the officers candidly admit they’ll never put an end to street prostitution. “Street prostitution ‘imports crime’ – it brings individuals into a neighborhood for the purpose of committing an illegal act,” Gallagher says.

“Unlike a ‘john’ (customer) who sets up a ‘date’ (sex-for-money meeting) from a CraigsList ad in a motel room or apartment,” Steinbronn adds, “these johns will drive the prostitute around the corner and into the neighborhoods alongside 82nd Avenue. They’ll do it in a church parking lot, in front of a school, just along a side street. They leave behind used condoms.”

Beyond negative impacts on neighborhoods, the officers say they’ve seen an alarming rise in the number young girls – as young as 14 years of age – being pressured into prostitution.

Instead of having the illicit sexual thrills he’d expected, this alleged john is getting another kind of excitement – being arrested, booked, and taken to jail. If his wife or girl friend is on the car title, she will have to be present when the car is released from seizure, and that might be a little exciting too.

Taking johns to jail
With all of the team in place, we watch as this “female decoy mission” or “john mission” swings back into action.

We watch a female Portland Police Officer, dressed in very ordinary, casual clothing – not a flashy, attention-getting costume – slowly walk up and down 82nd Avenue. Unlike some street prostitutes we’ve observed, these female undercover officers don’t shout, wave, or point at passing cars.

Within minutes, though, we see the driver of a car on 82nd Avenue slow down and make eye contact with the undercover officer. The driver turns in a side street and slowly drives past the undercover vehicle, and then turns into a restaurant parking lot. He motions for the officer to walk over to him.

It doesn’t take long for the john to propose a sex act for a specific amount of money. The undercover officer makes an innocuous gesture that signals the “Custody Team” of uniformed officers to swoop in and make the arrest.

Although another john tried to speed away after being busted by an undercover cop, the custody team closed in on him before he could escape the long arm of the law.

As fast as they can book them
“It’s amazing how many guys go cruising 82nd Avenue looking for a prostitute,” Steinbronn says. “We would arrest many more johns during each mission, except for the time it takes for our custody team to process and transport each of these alleged prostitution customers to the Justice Center, and book them into jail.”

Eager prostitutes don’t heed cops
We noticed two females, dressed in inappropriately short skirts and low-cut blouses, wearing a great deal of makeup, and strolling along in shoes with heels so high that most women would consider wearing them “cruel and unusual punishment”. A man, dressed in prototypical zoot suit attire, walks with them.

The group seems oblivious to the police cars roaring by with emergency lights flashing as another john gets busted.

Officer Gallagher says he recognizes the trio from past prostitution missions. He radios to a marked patrol car and asks officers to move them down the avenue so they can continue working their mission.

In all, their team arrested seven johns in one day, and eleven the next.

Asked why half of their missions are focused on arresting johns, Steinbronn explains, “Without the demand created by the johns, there wouldn’t be the supply of prostitutes working the street.”

The prostitution mission custody team swoops in to take another alleged prostitute into custody.

Picking up prostitutes
After two days of working ‘female decoy’ missions, the team switches to a ‘male decoy’ operation.

Here’s how it works: A male Portland Police Officer, driving an ordinary looking car, cruises along 82nd Avenue of Roses, and slows down for women who make eye contact or motion to them. “If the gal gets into the car, they usually make the deal for a sex act in exchange for money while they drive back into the neighborhood,” Gallagher tells us.

“The girls working along here know that we’re doing missions,” Steinbronn says. “Still, they’ll open a stranger’s car door and hop in. Sometimes they will ask the officer to expose himself, or ask him to touch them, to prove he’s not a cop, before they’re willing to make or accept the proposition. We don’t do that; if they insist, we have no choice but to let them go.”

But from our observation, there is no shortage of street-level prostitutes willing to gamble about being busted along the avenue. 13 prostitutes are arrested one day, another 12 the next – again, as rapidly as the custody team can book and transport them to jail.

From far north along 82nd Avenue, down to the Clackamas County line where this alleged prostitute is arrested, cops find no shortage of sex for sale on the street.

Crime of little consequence
Their missions are focused on curbing prostitution along 82nd Avenue this time, Steinbronn comments. “We found very few prostitutes working NE Sandy Boulevard, in the Parkrose area. They’ve really congregated along the length of 82nd Avenue, from Sandy south to Clackamas County.”

We ask the officers why they think prostitution along 82nd Avenue of Roses is flourishing.

Choosing their words carefully, the officers say that since certain Portland City ordinances were allowed to end, the number of prostitutes working has increased, because there is little consequence if they’re arrested.

“Let me illustrate it like this,” Steinbronn explains. “We arrested a gal yesterday. She was taken into custody and to jail. And, we arrested the same gal again today, still wearing the exact same clothes she had on yesterday.”

When a custody team officer asked why she was back out on the street again, hopping – unknowingly – into another undercover police car, Steinbronn says the cop reported she said, “I need to turn two tricks [sex acts] today. I don’t worry about you guys. I’ll be out [of jail] in a couple of hours.”

Prostitution-free Zones said to be successful
While reinstating Prostitution-free Zones won’t “cure” street-level prostitution, everyone with whom we’ve spoken in law enforcement says they were a good “tool” to reduce the prevalence of street-sex sales activity.

We’re told that since cities in the Seattle region have stepped up anti-prostitution enforcement and instituted ordinances, their rates of prostitution have dropped – and prostitutes themselves report that they’ve traveled south to work the Portland street, because the demand is high and the penalties are low.

Perhaps when the makeup of Portland’s city government changes in the new year, city leaders will once again revisit the Prostitution-free Zone ordinance. If they want to hear it, Portland’s own police officers will tell them that the zones really do help reduce the sex – openly for sale – on outer East Portland streets.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

If you couldn’t come by, take a look at the fun we all had as outer East Portland neighbors gathered for the tradition of celebrating the 4th of July on July 3rd …

The parade is the big feature of the day – but many festivities lead up to the event.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Perhaps only in outer East Portland does the community turn out to celebrate Independence Day on July 3rd!

Nevertheless, nearly 300 kids and adults showed up this year at the East Portland Community Center for the day-early star-spangled event.

East Portland Community Center recreation coordinator and parade director Molly King, working with Asst. Building Director Ali Rice, plan their parade strategy – with the help of Portland Police Bureau Traffic Division Sgt. Robert Voepel.

“It’s a great community event that is fun for everyone,” East Portland Community Center recreation coordinator, and parade director, Molly King, said of the event. “And, we do have a beautiful day to celebrate!”

King said this week’s event marked the 11th year of holding the parade. “Both the event, and the number of people who come, have grown over the years,” Kin said. “It started out being just being a parade that marches down to CherryWood Village and back. Now, we have all kinds of pre-parade activities.”

Mia Pinzelik is focusing all of her attention on climbing the rock wall.

Brian Baker helps his daughter Mari make crafts.

The community center staff was busy at a table providing craft fun that kids love. From face painting, to flag making and tattoos, kids and their parents all looked as if they truly enjoyed the sunny outdoor event.

Brian Baker and his daughter Mari said they were there for the first time. “It’s fun and really festive,” Baker told us. “It seems like there a lot of people here having fun.”

The community center’s hot dog chef (and recreation leader) is Bob Calhoun.

Giant, plump $1 hot dogs rolled on the grill – and were snapped up by the hungry crowd. Those wanting a lighter snack made their way to the popcorn tent.

“We’ve expanded our community information booth this year,” commented King. “But it looks like bringing in the rock-climbing wall was a great addition.”

About 11:30 a.m., the parade formed behind the Portland Police Bureau Color Guard and moved out along SE 106th Avenue – and the tradition was again underway.

On the parade route …

Leading off the parade are member of the Portland Police Bureau’s Color Guard Officer Jerry Higginbotham, who works in the Chief’s office; SE Precinct  Officer Tom Rhodes and East Precinct Officers Jennifer Hertzler and Rob Brown. Following them is Portland Police Highland Guard Piper Erin Anderson says he doubles as an East Precinct officer on his “days off”.

First President of Cherrywood Village, Elaine Burns, rides in the Yellow Corvette. I’m in my 10th year at Cherrywood.

Some come in costume – other kids just like walking in the parade.

This event appeals both to the young – and the young at heart! Outer East Portland residents Red DeMars, Solveig Johdahl and Lynn Simmons have come out to enjoy the parade.

Portland Parks & Recreation spokesperson Beth Sorenson, hands out cool treats after the march.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

While most kids flock to the Internet, you might be surprised to see how some young people choose to communicate the old-fashioned way – on paper …

Nicole Georges, a confirmed ‘zine publisher, shows some of her work at the Woodstock Branch Library class.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Many young people are drawn toward Internet communications, with websites slicked up with modern computer technology. Yet, other kids are drawn toward a quainter form of publications. They call their printed publications ‘zines – short for magazines.

At Woodstock Branch Library, ‘zine expert Nicole Georges is holding a class.

“We’re learning about how to make our own ‘zine,” Georges tells us.

She says a ‘zine is a self-made publication. It is usually created by an individual, but sometimes is produced by a group.

They rarely make a profit, she says, “The key is passion. ‘Zines are created and produced purely out of passion for a particular topic. The subject matter can be about anything.”

In addition to sharing how-to tips, Georges brought supplies and many samples to share with the class.

Physically Georges tells us, they can take a variety of forms. Sample ‘zines she shows the class range from very simple looking pamphlets, to sophisticated, full-color artist’s books.

Although young, Georges says she learned how to make ‘zines 14 years ago. “I’ve learned how to create and distribute them through trial and error.” Today she teaches a five-step method for creating a ‘zine.

Here’s how to make a Zine:

• Write – “It all starts off with writing. What are your ideas? What can you write passionately about?” she asks the class. When writing a ‘zine, she suggests thinking about what images could go with the text.
• Illustrate – “Draw, take photos, or use historical photos to illustrate your ‘zine. But be sure to make sure you have permission to use others’ images,” Georges instructs.
• Layout – Make a mock-up of the ‘zine before you do your final artwork, she recommends.
• Duplicate – Copy your pages, fold them into a ‘zine and staple.
• Distribute – “Your most immediate audience is your friends. But, now there are plenty of places that offer ‘zines for sale. Check out the ‘zine website,” explains Georges.

“The best, and most important part of ‘zines – is you!” says Georges.

Don’t judge – write!
When we ask for her most important advice she gives to students, Georges thinks for a moment and says, “Most important thing is for students is to write for themselves and express themselves as much as possible. Don’t be afraid of doing it. Don’t be objective or inhibited. Write how you feel.

“The best part of ‘zines is … you!”

See her website at www.nicolejgeorges.com or see the group site, www.iprc.org

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News Service

The program was both delightful and moving – for several reasons.
Read this, and see why …

Members of the Parkrose High School Thespian Troupe 1783 perform “Reality Check I”.

Story and (some) photos by David F. Ashton
As the lights dimmed, the background music faded, and the curtain at the Parkrose High School Theater rose, the applause was for the student actors of Parkrose High School Thespian Troupe 1783 themselves, not for the roles they were about to play.

To start off the evening, the cast of “Reality Check I” – a show that uses humorous skits to demonstrate good behavior, performed at Parkrose’s Sacramento, Shaver, and Russell Elementary schools this spring – presented their show. Although written with young kids in mind, the humor held up for the largely adult audience.

Derek Herman entertains with a moving solo performance. Patrick Smith Photography

Incoming troupe president Tom Crawford performs his solo “reading” – it wasn’t read; it was well-acted. Patrick Smith Photography

This hilarious musical theatre piece from “Spamalot” was deftly performed by Jacquelle Davis & Steven Ennis. Patrick Smith Photography

Induction and awards ceremony
Members of the troupe were invited onto the stage. When seated, they donned the ceremonial cap.

Intermingled with the telling of the thespian tradition, student actors performed moving readings, a duo guitar piece by Jason McGhee & Jacob Pratt, and a never-to-be forgotten (it was that good) adagio dance number.

Yes, your reporter was privileged to wear the ceremonial cap – light the candle – take the pledge, and become an honorary member of the troupe. Patrick Smith Photography

In addition to the official induction ceremony, presentation of awards, honor stoles, and graduating senior awards, both Parkrose High School band teacher Michael Tolon and David Ashton, editor of East Portland News, were made honorary members of Thespian Troop number 1783.

Introducing the incoming officers: (back row) Tom Crawford, President, Junior; Brian Fitzgerald, Vice President, Junior; Heather Grassel, Historian, Sophomore; (lower level) Mackenzie Billick-Smith, Secretary, Sophomore; Kiely Simmons, Oregon State Board Member, Junior; Ciera Willis, Clerk, Junior; Derek Herman, Historian, Junior. Of course, when school starts this fall, they’ll be in the next grade!

After the ceremony, the actors, their family and friends retired for a reception fit for a Hollywood actor. Patrick Smith Photography

My special thanks to Patrick Smith for the photos – we were a bit occupied during the ceremony!

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Why is this ‘stationary carnival’ more popular than ever? Find out what we learned, when we stopped by their birthday party …

Erica, Alexia, and Kayla (she’s also having a birthday today!) Jimenez are here enjoying a slice of Oaks Amusement Park 103rd Anniversary cake.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
For people who live in most cities of our size, the only time folks can take a spin on thrill rides, play midway games, and see live entertainment, is when a carnival comes to town.

Fortunately, Portlanders can “get away from it all” all summer long – as they have for 103 years – at historic Oaks Amusement Park.

Emily McKay, promotions manager, cuts cake for guests visiting them during their 103rd anniversary celebration.

Celebrating 103 years of fun
Built by the Oregon Water Power and Railway Company, it opened on May 30, 1905 – making it one of the oldest continuously-operating amusement parks in the nation.

“It’s important to celebrate Oaks Park,” said Emily McKay, promotions manager for the park, “because coming here to play has been a Portland tradition since the days of the horse and buggy. When you come here, you get to see what Portlanders experienced so many years ago.”

Amusement rides – old classics and new state-of-the-art ones – stand side-by-side at the park.

When we visited during the park’s anniversary celebration on June 7, we were reminded how well it has blended the thrills of today’s high-tech rides with the more genteel pastimes of yesteryear.

As we strolled around the midway, McKay pointed out, “We’ve taken care of our classic rides; some of them have entertained guests for more than 60 years. And, we’ve added new, exciting rides for the brave.”

This historic roller-coaster still thrills Oaks Park patrons.

Acres of recreation
The 44-acre park is more than just rides, McKay reminded us. “The roller skating rink, the largest in the country, has been here for 102 years. It’s the last rink in the world to feature live music played on a Wurlitzer theater organ. Today’s kids may not know it, but their great-grandparents may have enjoyed the same rink.”

In addition to hosting events such as the Multnomah County Fair, and Oktoberfest, the park offers special areas in which many companies, organizations, and large families host catered picnics under the oak trees for which the park is named. And Oaks Park sells a wide variety of reasonably- priced “fair fare” to hungry carnival goers.

And, an area overlooking the Willamette River provides picnic tables dedicated to families who bring their own basket lunch.

Kids of all ages can take a leisurely spin around the park on the miniature railroad train.

Expecting a bustling summer season
With fuel prices soaring, McKay said they expect many people will stay in town. “There are no gate admission, parking, or picnic fees. We want folks to come have a safe, wholesome day with their families.”

We asked McKay why she seemed so enthusiastic about her job. “I’m in love with it; I’ve come here almost every day since I was six years old. I’m sure your family will love it too.”

Oaks Amusement Park, once a for-profit family business, but today in the permanent care of a nonprofit corporation established to benefit Portland by its former owners,  is located near the foot of S.E. Tacoma Street.

They’re open Tuesday through Sunday. For more information, we’ll take you to their web site of you CLICK HERE!

Some of the Oaks Park rides – like this one – are not for the timid.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

The beauty and detail evident in their work is the result of craftsmanship that’s been passed down over two centuries. Read this, and learn why you should consider taking a look in person …

Min Zhu and Jimmy Cheng hold a large porcelain bowl – said to be the largest of its kind in production. After they set it down, Mr. Zhu tapped it with his finger — it rang like a bell!

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
The largest traveling display of Chinese porcelain and ceramic art – and its only stop in the United States during the current world tour – isn’t at a museum or Pearl District showroom.

This fascinating exhibit is currently showing in SE Portland.

One doesn’t need to speak or read the Chinese language to appreciate the beauty and scope of the exhibition, brought to this country by Yu Xiang Porcelain Co. Ltd. in Jingdezhen, China, and currently on display at Eastport Plaza on S.E. 82nd Avenue of Roses.

To learn more about this intriguing combination of museum and store, we enlisted the aid of restaurateur Jimmy Cheng from Grand Buffet to act as our interpreter, when we met the company’s manager, Min Zhu.

One of the antiquities Min Zhu brought to Portland is this stone carving of the Buddha’s head, made by an artisan in Jingdezhen.

Gave “China” its name
The artisans who produced porcelain and ceramic art and dishware for emperors and dignitaries for over 2,000 years didn’t realize they were inadvertently giving their country the name Westerners call now it.

“We call our nation Zh?ngguó,” Zhu began. Literally translated as “Middle Kingdom”, the compound [two pictogram] word means “the center of civilization” – which they were, while most of Europe was in the Dark Ages, and the “new world” of the Americas was yet to be discovered by Europeans.

This jade dragon shows the craftsmanship currently being done by Chinese artisans. The spider in front represents happiness for what you have, the five bats on the back are a symbol of very good luck.

“Our city of Jingdezhen [also Jingde Zhen] has been the location of the Imperial Kiln and the center of ceramic production since the early Han Dynasty,” related Zhu. “When our ancestors took our ceramics to Europe, and were asked of their origin, they said the name of our city. To Europeans, it sounded like ‘China’. Thus, Jingdezhen-produced ceramics from the nation of Zh?ngguó became known as China, and our people became known as Chinese.”

This vase is a replica of one presented to US President Richard Nixon. The temperatures when firing are precisely controlled, to keep the colors vibrant as they flow down the face of the vase.

Thin as paper
Jingdezhen was one of the four major towns in ancient China, we learned. In addition to historically dominating the development of ceramic arts, it is currently the epicenter of high-quality porcelain production today.

“They say Jingdezhen ceramics are as white as Jade, as thin as chime”, said Zhu. “Most ceramics are fired at 1,000°. But Jingdezhen kilns are much hotter, about 3,200°. Being so hot, the material gets very dense and strong. They will last much longer than other ceramics.”

In fact, Zhu said, virtually all the ceramics and porcelain on display in museums around the world were made by craftsman in his town.

This ornate, delicate porcelain vase shows fine detail and rich coloring.

Bowl rings like a bell
Zhu and Cheng walked over to a 3-foot-diameter porcelain bowl decorated with red dragons and blue waves. We caught our breath as they held up this giant piece of exquisite, translucent porcelain wear.

“See how extremely thin and delicate it is?” asks Zhu. After they set it down, he tapped the rim and it rang like a bell – and continued to reverberat for about 20 seconds.

“These are the largest [porcelain bowls] in the world,” stated Zhu. “They are very difficult to make, even for a very experienced artisan. These artists might make a hundred, or thousand of them, before they make one that is right. Then, one day, their hand is so steady, it’s like God gives them the strength and power to make this beautiful bowl.”

Modestly-priced one-of-a-kind works of art are available for purchase at the unique exhibition at Eastport Plaza on S.E. 82nd Avenue of Roses.

Ancient treasures on display
In addition to the ceramic works offered for sale, Zhu also brought stone carvings and other works of art, many of them hundreds of years old.

“We have samples of our arts and culture – these colorful and splendid ceramic works and handcrafts that represent our craft – to help the people of Portland gain a better understanding Jingdezhen porcelain,” Zhu said.

Unlike in a museum, in this case you can take home an original work of art – items are on sale ranging from $10 to $100,000 in value. “It’s wonderful for people to come and look,” commented Zhu. They don’t have to buy anything. Just come see this wonderful artistry from China.”

The exhibit and sale is open every day from 10 a.m. until 9 p.m. through August 10. Both are located at the north end of Eastport Plaza. Children are welcome – but do keep a watchful eye on them!

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Looking at the wreckage from the NE 102nd Avenue overpass, the railroad cars on the bridge high above the I-84 freeway were definitely tilted – and cars under the bridge were lying on their side. Find out exactly what happened, right there …

The derailment of this train shook up neighbors, and snarled traffic on two freeways – and on NE 102nd Ave. as well.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
A little after 7:00 a.m. on Thursday, June 24, Parkrose Heights resident David Green said he had just gotten home after working his graveyard shift when he heard a “troubling” sound coming from the freeway and railroad canyon just to the north of his home.

“It was a loud, screeching, grinding noise,” Green told us. More than just the noise, “You could feel a vibration, then a big thud. It wasn’t like an explosion, just a really big thud.”

Despite the noise, he went to bed. While Green slept, hundreds of motorists found themselves locked into  nightmare of a traffic jam.

Green said he didn’t think much about it until he woke up in midafternoon and walked over the NE 102nd Avenue viaduct – just south of NE Fremont Street – that takes neighborhood traffic above the I-205/I-84 interchange – and the Union Pacific Railroad tracks.

Although no one was injured, the damage to railcars and the rails was extensive.

Cars akimbo
Dozens of spectators were lining the overpass, looking at the derailed train below, when we arrived and met Green. Railroad cars below us, on either side of the bridge, were lying on their sides; other cars were off the tracks and leaning southward.

Directly below us, on the east side of the bridge, the hardened steel rails were sheared in two – as if cut by a giant pair of tin snips.

Of greater concern to Oregon Department of Transportation, though, were the rail cars – teetering sideways by a few degrees, on the fly-over railroad bridge, high above eastbound I-84. Because of the precarious angle of the railcars, ODOT shut down ramps connecting westbound I-84 to I-205 until 11 a.m.

Many bystanders speculated about the cause of the derailment; police and fire officials had no comment, because the incident took place on privately-owned land – that of Union Pacific Railroad.

It looked as if the rails were cut by a giant pair of tin snips.

Broken wheel causes derailment
In the past, we’ve been stonewalled when asking questions regarding railroad-related incidents. In a refreshing turn of events, we were able to speak with a Union Pacific Railroad spokesperson, Zoe Richmond, who proved candid and forthcoming.

“Early on, there was speculation it was a track issue,” reported Richmond. “But preliminary reports indicate the derailment was caused by a broken [railcar] wheel. The train kept going along the track until it reached the curve [under the NE 102 viaduct, heading around the base of Rocky Butte]. It ended up derailing.”

The cars were so heavily loaded – but within safety standards – that the broken wheel sliced the ties, then shredded the track, derailing many of the train’s 36 cars. These fully-loaded lumber cars weigh as much as 140 tons each, Richmond added.

“Indeed, the derailment happened on private [railroad owned] property,” Richmond confirmed. “And, we’ve been working with local and state authorities to make sure there are no safety impacts. We’ve got a big job to do, and we’re working to get it done as quickly and safely as possible.”

Each of these lumber cars weighs in at 140 tons – or more.

On-site injury confirmed
A spectator on-scene told us they saw a railroad worker injured when a chain, being lifted by a portable crane, came loose from a coupler, and knocked him to the ground.

“We had an employee, in the Car Department, involved in an accident, and he received facial lacerations,” Richmond candidly confirmed. “I don’t have all of the details, but a piece of equipment injured him; he is being treated. We are evaluating the situation. Safety is our Number One priority.”

With the railcars stalled on the bridge spanning the Banfield Freeway, ODOT closed the road while workers labored to clear the bridge.

Clean up efforts ongoing
Although they’d hoped to have the rail cars moved from the tracks Thursday night, June 26th, the cleanup and salvage efforts will take longer, Richmond admitted.

“After our work on Thursday night and early Friday morning, we could see this was going to take longer than we’d expected,” said Richmond. “We didn’t want to be a burden to the [Friday] morning commute, so we’ll be working on it again during the evening hours tonight [June 27th].”

ODOT said to be aware that they’ll close down I-84 again on Friday night, while crews remove the remaining railcars; and they may need to shut down the freeway again if necessary during the rest of the weekend.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Although they came from far and wide, few vets checked out the information tables set up for them, but everyone seemed to be having a good time …

Mustering for the Colors Ceremony are representatives from Northwest Indian Veterans (NWIV) members Alvey Seyouma, NWIV V.A. Chair; Hopei Tribe from N. Arizona; Louis Pacheco, a Piute who served with the 7th division in Korea; Arnie Holt, president of NWVA, who served with the 101st airborne and member Kavel Kaval Federated tribes; Chuck Dougherty, a Vietnam veteran in the 1st Air Cavalry Division; Darwin Hartman, Cherokee; Vern Wilson, U.S. Army, who served at Ft. Lewis, Washington; and Bruce Brown, U.S. Army Chemical Corps in Maryland during Korean conflict.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Military veterans were treated to a day of picnic lunches, music, and politicians’ promises at Oaks Amusement Park a couple of weeks ago.

“Today we’re having a ‘welcome home’ celebration for our Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom veterans,” said Mike McAleer, Public Affairs Officer for Portland Veteran’s Administration (V.A.) Medical Center.

“We’ve invited them to come and learn about benefits and services available – we have over 35 tables set up where they can gather information about jobs, education, and V.A. benefits,” McAleer went on. “We’re happy to do anything we can to help these folks transition back home after their service to the government.”

One of the many volunteers giving out information bags is Kathy Hunt, who works at the V.A. in the Operative Care Department.

Cody Szabo with SuperDog – they catered the event – here, serving up hotdogs.

Giving a big ‘thank you’
The Bridgetown Big Band played World War II vintage melodies as veterans and their family members filtered into the area, marked off with a two-story high arch made of red, white, and blue helium balloons.

In addition to providing information, the event was planned to allow the VA to “Give our veterans a big thank you, and let them know we’re here for them and their needs – now that they’ve taken care of our needs,” said McAleer, a Vietnam-era veteran. “I also was in Iraq twice with the Army Corps of Engineers as a public affairs officer for the reconstruction we did over there.”

US Senator Ron Wyden takes a moment to talk with VA officials before he goes on stage.

Vets need more help, Wyden says
Then the band took a break, and V.A. officials and political dignitaries took the stage.

US Senator Ron Wyden started off by quipping, “For senators, a keynote speech usually lasts for an hour or so.” Wyden then turned to his hosts and said, “I’m afraid they think I’m serious!”

He continued, “In our country, we believe that those who honor us by wearing our uniform, and put themselves in harm’s way to defend our freedoms, should have good-quality health care when they come home. I think we have seen this at the Portland V.A., with the resources they have. But too often, the priorities are bent out of whack. There haven’t been the dollars for the doctors, the programs, and shortening the waiting lines, to make sure people get their services in a timely way.”

Wyden calls for more, and better, benefits for U.S. Armed Forces veterans.

Calls for ‘equal benefits”
Wyden complained that the “G.I. Bill” hasn’t kept pace with the times, especially in Oregon. “We don’t have the big military bases like they have back east. And so we don’t have the same number of folks in the active military. What we have is a tremendous number of courageous Oregonians who have gone into the National Guard and Reserve – and we now have one of the highest percentages in the country of people serving in the Guard and Reserve. And they don’t get the same benefits that you get under the G.I. Bill.

“If you’re a soldier, dodging the same bullets, in the same place, for the same length of time – you’re entitled to equal benefits. We want to get those for our soldiers who are serving our country.”

U.S. House Representative, fifth District, Darlene Hooley, on the Oaks Park stage to thank veterans’ family members for their sacrifices.

Hooley echoes sentiments
US House Representative, fifth District, Darlene Hooley followed, thanking the veterans present for their service to our country, saying, “You do us proud. You’re the ones who make sure that we have a safe country in which to live and keep our freedoms.”

Corbett Craig, First 327 101st Airbore from Ft. Campbell; “we were over in Iraq twice, each time for one year,” he said, as his face was painted by volunteer Paula Holmes.

After saying she agreed with Wyden’s remarks, Hooley added, “If you are a veteran’s family member, or a friend who has supported veterans, I thank you for the sacrifices you and your family have made.”

With that, the veterans and their family members were provided with hot dog lunches, with the opportunity to visit the information booths, and were given wrist bands allowing them to ride the thrill rides at Oaks Park for free.

We saw a few veterans picking up information provided by the 35 organizations that set up tables at the event.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

See why this farmer’s market on SE Stark St. packs ’em in,
even with an earlier start …

Manager at the Montavilla Farmers Market, Gretchan Jackson takes a break and welcomes us to their market, along with volunteer coordinator Tonya Stark and volunteer Monica Rotzen.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Before they opened for business last year, neighbors who organized the Montavilla Farmers Market wondered if anyone would stop and shop at their lot, located across the street from the landmark Mr. Plywood store.

Instead of counting a couple hundred visitors, this market has been attracting shoppers by the thousands, said Gretchan Jackson the market’s manager. “We’ve counted around 2,000 shoppers at each market; we have really consistent crowds all day long. We opened on June 7 and had about 1,900 visitors during our four hours of market.”

At the market, Nicolette Purcell and Carol Kiel buy their fresh vegetables mere blocks from where they live.

Weather delays crops, not shoppers
There are fewer fresh fruit and vegetable vendors at the start of the season, commented Jackson. “Our farmers tell us the cool weather is delaying their crops about two to three weeks. While we’re featuring 19 vendors today, that number will grow to around 30 at the height of growing season.”

On this day, it looked like market vendors were having brisk sales as neighbors came by to shop.

After tasting the giant strawberry, Ruby Anderson says she found it a bit tart for her taste. She came with her aunt – they live near Creston Park.

Nicolette Purcell liked the looks of produce at one stand in particular. “I live close by in the South Tabor neighborhood.”I come here because I want to support local farmers, and I get the very best produce in town, week after week.”

Another shopper, Carol Kiel, told us she lives just blocks away. “I love the fact I can get fresh produce straight from hands of those who grew it, and support them directly.”

‘Buns on the Run’ server Jessica Curtin serves up a freshly-made sausage to Jeanine Diamond. The savory scent was so inviting, we dined on a chicken sausage made with garlic and Portobello mushrooms – it was delicious.

Community gathering place
In addition to the market’s providing them with reasonably-priced fresh food, all of the shoppers with whom we spoke said the secondary reason for their weekly visits to the market was to mingle with their neighbors.

“I’m really pleased to see our market has become a real community space,” Jackson agreed. “It provides a place for neighbors to come, shop, enjoy live music, and have conversations about issues great and small.”

A new vendor this year, Clint Bissell at “Liquid Sunshine” squeezes up a fresh strawberry lemonade.

Where and when
Montavilla Farmer’s Market

• Where: 7600 block of SE Stark Street across from “Mr. Plywood”
• When: Sundays, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., except July 6, until October 5

To learn more, CLICK HERE to visit their website and get on their e-mail newsletter list.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News