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

Find out how this market’s organizers are meeting the needs of its ‘food-insecure’ residents – and how everyone benefits …

Jill Kuehler, Lents International Farmers Market Manager, talks with a customer at the Community Table on the market’s opening day.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
The most recent local open-air marketplace to open for the year, on June 15, was the Lents International Farmers Market.

“Last year was our first full season,” said manager Jill Kuehler. “We had an average of about 400 customers and 8 vendors every Sunday last year. This year we’re doubling our number of vendors, and we hope to double our number of customers as well.”

Meeting community’s food needs
Three years ago, Kuehler said, a research project showed that about 25% of Lents-area residents felt insecure about the availability of, and the ability to buy, fresh and wholesome food in the area.

“Of all the ideas the group came up with, an international farmer’s market is what really resonated with the neighborhood,” explained Kuehler.

Offering freshly grown greens, raised at the Portland State University Learning Lab Gardens on SE 60th Street, are graduate students Stephanie Rooney, assistant manager, and Jeanne Ferreira, garden manager. They accept donations, and give produce to families in need.

Fresh from the farm
An dependably early sell-out at this market each week is the eggs Bonnie Hodge brings from her Brookside Farms, ten blocks from this market. One customer quipped, has he snapped up a dozen, “These eggs are so fresh, I don’t think the hens have had time to miss them.” Hodge warned, “Once you’ve tried farm-fresh eggs, there’s no going back.”

“Blooming Goodies” returned this season their stunning flower bouquets and unique Asian produce. “Caspian Blossoms”, new to the market this year, sells Turkish and Arabic pastries, plus olive spreads, eggplant dips, and dolmas – an Eastern European stuffed vegetable dish.

Three cultural celebrations planned
Scattered throughout the summer, the market has planned events celebrating the culture of Eastern Europe (July 13), Southeast Asia (Aug. 17), and Latin America (Sept. 21).

“These events promote the cultural diversity of Lents residents and the market vendors, while creating an educational opportunity for people to learn more about their neighbors,” noted Kuehler.

While her mom and dad shop, Ailee Pederson creates artwork at the market’s children’s center.

Weekly music and activities
Musical entertainment, cooking demonstrations showing how to prepare many of the more exotic vegetables available at the market, and children’s activities, are offered each week.

Prepared foods and beverages from Parkrose’s “Traveling Coffee Kids” rolling kitchen, fresh fruit pies and pastries, and Mexican delicacies are also available. We enjoyed a delicious chicken-and-vegetable tamale prepared by a family participating in the Hacienda CDC program called “Micro Mercantes” – it teaches entrepreneurial skills, while providing economic opportunities.

Plans July food stamp promotion
“As part of our mission, we accept food stamps,” commented Kuehler. “During the month of July, we’ll help stretch their value by giving these customers extra value. For every food stamp dollar spent, the market will match it, up to $5 each week.”

Kuehler asked us to thank their major supporters: Zenger Farm, a non-profit farm and wetland in outer southeast Portland, Kaiser Permanente Community Fund of the Northwest Health Foundation, and New Seasons Markets.

Where and when
Lents International Farmers Market

• Where: The corner of SE 92nd Avenue and Foster Road.
• When: Sundays, 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. through October 14

To learn more, CLICK HERE or call (503) 621-7655

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

You’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at what its like for a SE Portland area teenager to be named as the Portland Rose Festival Queen, when you read this story …

Cleveland High’s Portland Rose Festival Princess, Marshawna Williams, greets the Memorial Coliseum crowd.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
By now, getting up early in the morning wasn’t unusual for this 18-year-old Cleveland High School senior. For weeks, Marshawna Williams, the school’s 2008 Portland Rose Festival Princess, arose at the crack of dawn to participate in a wide variety of activities, along with other princesses on the Rose Festival Court.

On June 7, when Williams rolled out of bed at the pre-dawn hour of 4:00 a.m., she didn’t know her life was about to change. At 9:12 a.m., Williams was crowned Queen Marshawna, the second Cleveland grad in three years to earn the honor of representing Portland Rose Festival for the next twelve months.

Tens of thousands of people watching TV saw Queen Marshawna briefly take the throne set up in the middle of Memorial Coliseum, be given the crown and scepter, and then ride off on a float in the Portland Rose Festival Grand Floral Parade.

Moments after being named “Queen Marshawna” of this year’s Rose Festival, Williams is at a near loss for words.

Caught up in a flood of emotions, Queen Marshawna wipes a tear from her eye.

A royal interview

While previously attending her selection as Cleveland High’s Princess, we learned Williams was co-president of the Black Student Union, Student Body VP, and an active member of National Honors Society.

We wondered what made this poised young lady so special as to be chosen as Portland’s grand festival ambassador. While Queen Marshawna was too busy with her many appearances during the festival to speak with us, we were granted an interview after the conclusion of the main festivities.

Queen Marshawna is crowned Queen of Rosaria.

With crown and scepter in hand, Queen Marshawna is ready to begin her one-year reign to end at the start of next year’s Portland Rose Festival.

A queen in the making
“I’ve never been in a pageant of any kind,” Williams began. “In a sense, trying out to be Cleveland’s representative on the Rose Festival Court fell into my lap. It was a new experience I wanted to try out.”

Williams said she tendered her application to begin the process. “I was judged on how I carry and express myself. I learned some skills that I didn’t even know I have! I remember being a little nervous when I gave my speech. It was a close vote, I learned.”

After the excitement of the selection program subsided, Williams said she had the feeling that it was “meant to be. I didn’t prepare for this.”

Queen Marshawna walks down the aisle, and into the Portland Rose Festival history books.

Life on the Court
We learned that Portland Rose Festival Princesses wrap up their high school year early, on April 28. Instead of getting up for school, Rose Festival Court members begin to “work” 40-hour weeks, as they ride in neighborhood parades, attend luncheons, and promote the festival.

“It’s like we’re ‘on stage’ all day, every day, from 7 a.m. until 9 p.m.,” related Williams. “It’s wonderful, because people are happy to see us; but it means we have to stay ‘up and positive’ all of the time.”

A happy memory that stood out for Williams was when the Pendleton Round-Up and Happy Canyon Court came to town. “We all went for a Jet Boat on the Willamette River, and had dinner at the Old Spaghetti Factory.”

Williams also told us of poignant moments when they visited one of many nursing and assisting homes. “At first, I felt a little uncomfortable meeting patients with dementia. One woman came over and took my hand – she was speaking a language I didn’t understand. But, just my listening to her seemed to cheer her up.”

Composure regained, Queen Marshawna gives her first interview to the waiting media reporters and cameras.

The big day
On the day of the queen’s selection, Williams said she got up at 4 a.m. and was at the festival’s Lloyd Center offices at 4:30 a.m. for check-in, and to start fixing her hair and putting on her makeup.

With shoes and gowns in hand, she and the other Princesses next arrived at Memorial Coliseum. In a side room, the princesses were treated to the catered “Royal Breakfast” at 7 a.m. “It was good. I had a lot of fruit, and some sausage and eggs, too.”

As the coronation program was beginning, Williams said the Princesses helped each other get ready, putting on finishing touches with makeup and slipping into their gowns.

Over the PA system, the Master of Ceremonies called the Princesses’ names, one by one, as they came out to greet the crowd.

“I remember being nervous when I heard my name. I was thinking, ‘What if I’m selected; or what if it isn’t me?’ I remember walking down the carpet to the stage; across it, and down to my seat. I was walking fast.”

At the program’s end, when the MC read her name, Williams said, “I was excited, and laughing and sad – all at the same time.”

All hail Queen Marshawna! She and her court ride off on their float in the June 7 Grand Floral Parade.

Queen’s-eye view of the parade
Williams said she doesn’t remember much of the impromptu press conference following her crowning, but she started to relax when she, and her royal court, mounted their float in the Portland Rose Festival Grand Floral Parade.

“As we got on the float, a couple of the girls said they were hungry. Our ‘Royal Coachman’ – Gary, our bus driver – brought pepperoni sticks for us to eat, when we make long stops along the route.”

“Trying to make it up the hill from the Convention Center, on NE Weidler Street, our float either stalled or ran out of gas, and we had to be towed,” Williams recalled. “And, later in the parade, we got stuck in a pothole. It was a fun and interesting ride!”

As announcers at outlying reviewing stands along the route stumbled while pronouncing her name, Williams realized many parade-goers hadn’t gotten the word who had been crowned, but everyone smiled and waved.

“It was really fun seeing all the people along the route. A little girl holding a sign that read, ‘I love you Queen Marshawna’. A whole line of friends from Cleveland High were standing on the Burnside Bridge, cheering me.”

Portland Police Bureau East Precinct Officers Mark De Long and Jacob Clark are part of the bike patrol assigned to the Grand Floral Parade route.

Representing Portland abroad
Williams said she looks forward to appearing at the Pendleton Round Up later this year, and may represent Portland at the Pasadena Parade of Roses festival in Southern California on New Year’s Day.

“I’m also looking forward to visiting our sister city in China, Kaohsiung, R.O.C.”

Back to being a teenager
This fall, Williams said she’ll be entering the University of Portland to study environmental engineering with a minor in business.

And, while Williams said she’s looking to enjoy a little time off, she added, “I already miss the girls and our chaperones. We had so much fun together. But I’m looking forward to being a teenager again and taking a little time off. I woke up with a start the other morning at 7 a.m. – but realized I wasn’t late – I didn’t have to go anywhere!”

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News Service

The stove burner didn’t work, they said – but find how much damage this kitchen fire caused, when kitchen grease ignited …

Firefighters pull equipment off their truck. Because it occurred during the day – when the residents were awake, and in the house – tragedy was averted when a stove burner, thought to be out-of-commission, set this home’s kitchen on fire.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
The alarm sounded at 1:04 p.m. on June 15 – and Portland Fire & Rescue’s Station 25 crew answered the call, and headed for a house in the 7800 block of SE 68th Avenue; they arrived in four minutes.

Even though we arrived on scene just minutes after the emergency dispatch hit the airwaves, firefighters had already extinguished the blaze, and were removing burnt debris from the house.

“When we arrived, we found a kitchen fire,” said Lt. Phil Loving, who was riding with Engine 25. “It got a bit out of control and into the cabinets. We had it extinguished quickly, but there was a lot of smoke damage.”

Said stove burners didn’t work
Lt. Allen Oswalt, fire department spokesman, reported the exact cause of the brief blaze that did $45,000 worth of damage to the home.

“The homeowner said that only two of the four burners on the electric stove worked – and he stored pots, with grease in them, on the non-working burners,” Oswalt reported. “The fire started in a pan left on the left rear burner that supposedly didn’t work. The stove was unattended.”

Although damage was limited to the kitchen area, smoke made the Inner Southeast home uninhabitable, and the destruction was estimated at $45,000.

Basic fire safety rules ignored
Oswalt said that, fortunately, no one was injured, and the fire damage was limited.

“Two of the most important rules of preventing a house fire were ignored in this incident: Never leave anything unattended on the stove, and always make sure you have a working smoke detector,” warned Oswalt.

Cooking fires are the leading cause of home fires across the country, he added. “And, we’ve all heard of the tragedies that happen every year – people dying needlessly in house fires. In this instance, what if the fire had occurred while the occupant was sleeping? With no working smoke alarm, the outcome could have been deadly!”

It’s a wrap! Firefighters pick up their hoses after putting out the kitchen fire.

Cheap and easy protection
Smoke alarms are cheap and easy to test, the bureau spokesman went on. “If you don’t have one, there is a smoke detector hotline (503) 823-3752: If you qualify, PF&R will provide one and install it. How easy is that?”

He added that for renters, the landlord is required by law to provide a working smoke alarm at the time of lease signing. It is the renter’s task to test it and make sure it works, however.

“Fire safety is your responsibility,” Oswalt concluded. “Don’t let you or your loved ones become a statistic!”

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Some dogs jump for joy; others to compete. See the X-Treme Air Dogs leap higher and higher as they each strive to take home trophies …

Producer of the “X-Treme Air Dogs” competition, Michael Allen, announces the next high-flying canine contender during the Extreme Air High Jump event.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
For many years, the canine sport of “off-the-dock long jumping” has been growing in popularity. Owners toss a toy into the water; their pooches run along a 40-foot “dog launch dock” and jump as far as they can. The dog that flies through the air for the greatest distance before hitting the water, wins.

Dogs doing a long-jump into water may not seem like “real” sport; but to thousands of registered dock-jumping teams across the country – who compete in more than a hundred officially-sanctioned events each year – it’s turned into a major-league spectator sport.

Cera Rausser and Rikki relax for a moment before they next high-jump attempt.

Adds a new dimension
As part of the 2008 Portland Rose Festival, this sport came to Oaks Amusement Park for the first time this year, on June 7 and 8.

“As part of our sanctioned ‘X-Treme Air Dogs’ competition,” said the promoter, Michael Allen, who hails from Junction City, near Eugene, “This meet is also featuring the Extreme Air High Jump.”

The concept of this competition is simple. Dogs launch themselves off the dock, and try to bite a chew-toy suspended high in the air eight feet from the end of the dock – before plunging into the 27,000 gallon pool. The competition starts with the toy suspended 5’8′ above the water, and is raised a few inches for each subsequent jump by each dog.

On the launch dock, Cera Rausser coaches Rikki, giving her words of encouragement.

Taking the plunge
These contests were taken very seriously by all 65 owners who signed up for the competition. But for the dogs, it’s clearly all play. The crowd around the pool cheered on the teams and applauded each successful attempt, as the bar rose higher and higher.

“Rikki does it because she really seems to like it,” said her owner, Cera Rausser, from Warren, Oregon. “This is our third competition. She’s got experience in the long-jumping game; but she’s new at playing the high-jumping game.”

In addition to bragging rights, winners took home cash and prizes, Allen told us. “This event is part of our four-city tour called ‘Chase to the Championship’. We loved Portland, and so did the competitors. We plan to be back as an official Rose Festival every year.”

Rikki launches into the air. She’s reaching for the black-striped toy hung from two ropes …

grabs the toy …

heads for the water, toy firmly in mouth …

Splashdown!

First-time flyers welcome
The promoter said that he plans to add events in the Portland area, and “first-time jumpers” are always welcome at these competitions. “We host four divisions, from little pups to pros.”

To learn more, see their web site by CLICKING HERE.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Folks along his street had only good things to say about this young man – but, see why he potentially faces up to 5 years in jail and a $125,000 fine …

All of his neighbors describe the young man who was arrested at this house as a responsible neighbor. They were surprised to learn he was accused of illegally selling fireworks.

Story and photo by David F. Ashton
Montavilla resident Leslie Roma-Smith says she was surprised on the night of June 19 to see a procession of law enforcement and fire bureau vehicles – even a bomb squad truck – pull up her street, and charge into her next door neighbor’s house.

It wasn’t until hours later that Roma-Smith learned that her next door neighbor apparently had a booming side business – selling illegal-in-Oregon fireworks on the Internet.

“He’s lived there for going-on three years. He’s been a really helpful, responsible neighbor. He works hard. And,” Roma-Smith reflected, “he does put on a good backyard July 4th firework display.”

Authorities say these “bad boys” of the firework kingdom are illegal – and selling them is also against the law – especially if the vendor doesn’t have the appropriate license. PF&R photo

Starts with Craigslist posting
“Several weeks ago,” Portland Fire & Rescue (PF&R) spokesman Lt. Rich Tyler began telling the story, “the Oregon State Fire Marshal’s office forwarded an investigative lead to PF&R investigators, regarding a posting on ‘Craigslist’, advertising fireworks for sale.”

E-mail exchanges between the alleged explosives seller and a member of the Metropolitan Fire Investigation Team (MFIT) set up the undercover purchase of large quantity of illegal fireworks, revealed Tyler. A subsequent search of a home at 130 NE 71st and two vehicles netted illegal fireworks with an approximate retail value of $10,000.

Most people wouldn’t consider these “Bottle Rockets” and “ladyfingers” to be “destructive devices” – nevertheless, they are illegal to use or possess in Oregon. PF&R photo

Subjects may get BIG fines … and jail time
The MFIT arrested two individuals in SE Portland for illegal firework sales, possession, and manufacture.

22-year-old Harvey Joe Edward Stevens, the home’s primary resident, was charged with Sale, Possession and use of Fireworks, a Class B misdemeanor – carrying a maximum penalty of 6 months in prison and a $2,500 fine. 35-year-old James P. Johnson was also charged. Both were booked and released.

Tyler said the Multnomah County District Attorney’s office – along with other agencies – are considering adding other charges, including Possession of Destructive Device,a  Class C Felony, carrying a maximum penalty of 5 years in prison, and a $125,000 fine.

“A lot of work by the MFIT crew went into this operation,” PF&R’s chief investigator, Rich Stenhouse, stated. “Our focus is always on the protection of citizens and property in the City of Portland.”

We don’t know if MFI Team found evidence of fireworks manufacturing in the Northeast Portland home, but these fireworks – legal across the river in Washington, but illegal here – appear to be factory-made devices. PF&R photo

Other neighbors, who declined to be named, said that while the backyard July 4th fireworks shows were elaborate, they never felt in endangered by pyrotechnic displays. One added that he thought the authorities were “trying to make an example of Stevens” to curb other Internet sales.

Tyler countered, “As we enter fireworks season, firefighters from around the region would like to remind people to ‘Keep it Safe, Keep it Legal’.”

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

How about “they sing for stands”? Take a look, and you’ll see why choir members are working hard to get new performance equipment …

The Parkrose High “A-Choir” performs at a special fund-raising concert at Parkrose United Methodist Church.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
After 35 years of use, the risers – the stands used by the choir – at Parkrose High School were carted out to the dump just a few weeks ago.

“After taking a long look at our old risers, and choral shell,” said choir and voice instructor Lesley Ann Bossert, “We all agreed they had to go. It was getting to the point where safety might be an issue.”

With that in mind, the choir has taken on a new project: Replacing this much-needed equipment. The risers allow singers to stand in rows, each higher than the last. The choral shell helps the singers’ voices project.

Standing on the far left, Kiet Tran leads a men’s ensemble at the Parkrose fundraising concert.

May concert features jazz
Their concert on May 18 took place at Parkrose United Methodist Church, and featured the big band sounds of Jazz Express.

This program also featured the Parkrose High School “A-Choir”. And, Parkrose High student Kiet Tran’s senior project – a men’s ensemble – also performed.

June Awards Concert

“A-Choir” member Jason McGhee gets a wardrobe adjustment by choir director Lesley Bossert.

One of the highlights of the past year, that choir director Lesley Bossert shared with the audience, was the Debonairs’ experience of participating in their first jazz festival – along with a bass and percussion player.

Bossert talked about the high scores the choirs made in competition, and complemented the student musicians who qualified at the State competitions.

We can’t let you hear their wonderful music – but we can share photos of these talented students with you!

The Treble Choir was up first. They sang “Fly Me to the Moon”, “Ain’t That News”, “Danny Boy” and finished up with an energetic presentation of “Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy”. By the way, they’re standing on borrowed risers!

Under the direction of Parkrose High’s choir director, Lesley Bossert, many outer East Portland students have gained solid musical skills.

The Debonaires perform – with their combo – the songs “Turnaround”, “Lullaby on the Hudson” and “Down St. Thomas Way”.

The Concert Choir showed a wide range of musical skills as they performed “Song of the Sea”, “A Canon of Praise” and a toe-tapping medley: “Disney Dazzle”.

The renowned “A-Choir” performs “Arroz Con Leche”, Bogorodiste Devo”, and “Thoroughly Modern Millie”.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Beyond the new “Bike Boxes”, see how the City’s “Share the Road” program aims to increase bicyclist safety …

We can see Dean Lucas approaching in the truck’s side mirror. As he rides up alongside the truck stopped at an intersection. Then, he vanishes from sight.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Officials from the City of Portland’s Office of Transportation (PDOT) literally took their “Share the Road” show on the road a couple of weeks ago – on SE Clinton Street.

They’ve parked a PDOT dump truck, with trailer in tow, at an intersection – to allow both drivers and bicyclists to witness for themselves the difficulties drivers have of seeing bikers, and bikers have being seen.

“We want to promote to cyclists the importance of making eye contact with car drivers, and especially truck drivers,” explains PDOT Transportation Options specialist Barbara Plummer.

“Large heavy-duty trucks have significant blind spots,” Plummer explains. “Even with special mirrors and other emerging technologies, there are still areas where drivers can’t see a bicyclist along side of them.”

In addition to educating drivers, their campaign is also aimed at bike peddlers. “We want to make cyclists aware of blind spots, and to encourage them to stay out of – and not hang out in – those blind spots.”

Linda Ginenthal, with PDOT’s Transportation Options program, joins the conversation, adding, “State law says the bicyclists have the right-of-way. Even though a bicyclist has the right-of-way, they still need to be cautious. There needs to be a level of shared responsibility; everyone needs to watch out for each other.”

Linda Ginenthal and Barbara Plummer, both with the City of Portland Office of Transportation, hold this show-and-tell session to promote their agency’s “Share the Road” bicycle safety program.

The bicyclist in the mirror
To get the truck driver’s perspective, we hop up into the cab of a PDOT dump truck, and glance in the passenger-side mirror.

Coming up from some distance behind, we see a 20-year bicycle commuter, Dean Lucas, in the bike lane, approaching the intersection. As he approaches, he disappears from view; we can’t see him below the window of the high-sitting cab.

After the demonstration, Lucas tells us “I’ve been hit five times, and I’ve pushed myself away from cars and trucks cutting me off too many times to count. I appreciate the City’s effort to help keep cyclists safe on the road.”

When we ask if he’s seen cyclists riding unsafely, Lucas says, “The answer is ‘yes all the time’; there are bad cyclists just like there are bad drivers. The idea is for all of us to learn to ‘drive friendly’.”

Saying he’s had his share close calls with bicycles while driving his PDOT big rig, Raymond Gawthorne shows a prototype sticker promoting driver/bicyclist cooperation.

From the driver’s seat
Raymond Gawthorne says he usually drives the PDOT the 6-yard dump truck with a backhoe on a trailer they’re using in this demonstration.

“We go the extra mile when it comes to bicycles,” Gawthorne says. “I’ve had a lot of scares and close calls. That’s why I’m helping get this message across to people.”

Asked for his best advice to bicyclists, Gawthorne thinks for a moment, and says, “Make eye contact with the driver. Talk with your eyes. Let them know your intentions, and find out what their intentions are. If they can’t see your eyes, it’s a bet they didn’t see you. Why risk it?”

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Learn how one local company has kept reinventing itself for 100 years – and find what else is happening, as we catch up with the Parkrose Business Association.

Paul Sawyer of Miller Paints shows a new line of “green designer” paints the company is putting on the market.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Last month’s meeting of the Parkrose Business Association featured Miller Paint Co.’s secret of success; how a local family is “tops in taps” – actually all kinds of dancing shoes and apparel; a scholarship financial appeal; and more information on a new August 2nd area-wide event.

Miller paints a rosy future
In this age of business consolidation, Parkrose-based Miller Paint Company has resisted the “urge to merge”, and is one of the few stand-alone paint companies left, according to company President Paul Sawyer.

“We’re a fiercely independent company owned by 290 employees,” Sawyer declared.

President Paul Sawyer says the Miller Paint Company has been around for a century.

The paint company was founded by Earnest Miller, whose main occupation was being a muralist. “For the 1904 Exposition, Earnest Miller painted a large and long banner that depicted Lewis and Clark coming over Mt. Hood and ending in Oregon City,” Sawyer said.

The founder’s son, Walt Miller, worked with his father, and ended up running the company until he was 90 years old. In 1999, Miller became an employee-owned company.

Sets strategic plan
“Our industry is shrinking,” Sawyer said ruefully. “Now there are four major players. We knew we had to make a plan.”

The employee-owners created a “2010 Strategic Plan”, based on quality products and exceptional service. “We had to take what we did the best and kick it up a notch. We ask our people ‘Are you committed to it, and will you do it?'”

“Buying paint isn’t a spur-of-the-moment decision”, Sawyer explained. “In Portland, there are hundreds of places to buy paint. We had to create stores with a sense of destination, featuring good advice, fast service, and beautiful colors.”

Instead of simply handing out paint “chips”, Miller Paints’ line of designer-inspired paint samples now come in pouches.

Sawyer showed two small plastic cards; one was their “Basic Extraordinary Service Tool”, listing their seven points of good customer service.

“We call the other one the ‘Get out of jail free’ card. If an employee has the chance to really ‘wow’ a customer with great service – you do it. If your supervisor questions you about it – you hand them the card,” Sawyer explained.

Product innovations
Sawyer touted their “green” line of zero-solvent-based products – and said that Miller became a leader in reducing carbon-emissions by introducing the paint in 1996.

“Divine Color” was a new line of paint created by a Lake Oswego artist. “Instead of paint swatches, we ship small pouches of paint so the buyer can actually see the result on their own wall.”

Thanks to bio-mimicry, Sawyer says, rain will actually wash dirt off Millers’ newest paint.

“Miller has signed a 10-year exclusive agreement with a company in Germany that has been doing bio-mimicry – finding things in nature that are unique, and replicating them through manufacturing. Like the lotus plant, our newest coatings won’t absorb water. The point is, rain washes dirt-coated surfaces.”

In support of the August 2nd Parkrose Festival and Cruise-in, Wayne Stoll pitches, “50 banners will be placed along NE Sandy Boulevard. Your name should be on on!” Holding the sample banner are Amy Salvador and Ansley Stoll.

Businesses pitch in for scholarship fund
The Miller presentation done, the Parkrose Business Association’s President, Michael Taylor turned to the organization’s scholarship fund: “Last year, it rained on the Cruise-in, and we didn’t do well. We’ve struggled to provide all of the scholarships we wanted. It goes against our grain to reduce the number of scholarships.”

Then, Taylor announced that an anonymous donor has chipped in $500 to support a scholarship.

Nancy Murphy, Bank of the West, presents a sponsoring scholarship check for $500 to the Parkrose organization.

Bank of the West Manager Nancy Murphy, brought up a $500 check; and additional sponsorship was shared by Compaction & Recycling Equipment and Bob Brown Tires. Taylor announced, “We’ve got it covered. This is what makes our community great.”

Kyle Ziegler talks about their family’s new business, Carrie B’s Dance Shop.

Parkrose people buy Midway-area business
The spotlighted business at this particular meeting was Carrie B’s Dance Shop. “In May, we bought this 35-year old business,” said owner Kyle Ziegler – also the owner of CastleGate Realty in Parkrose. “The previous owner built an Internet-based business from the 575-square-foot storefront; we ship dancewear, shoes, and accessories around the world.”

Meet the members
The Parkrose Business Association, one of our favorite groups, meets at one of our favorite restaurants.

Come on June 19 at 11:30 a.m. and meet this group of fun and energized businesspeople. This month, the PBA Scholarship Committee presents the Parkrose High students selected for scholarship awards. And, you’ll learn more about the all-new Parkrose Festival & Cruise-in in August.

You’ll get the best business lunch at town at Steamers Restaurant, 8303 NE Sandy Blvd. (east of NE 82nd Avenue); NO reservations required. For info: www.parkrosebusiness.org.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

See how one of the best variety arts entertainers on the west coast uses his skills to make science fun to learn …

Professional juggler, entertainer — and science teacher — Rhys Thomas quips, “There’s no job for a multi-tasker quite like mine.”

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Perhaps the funniest physics instructor on the planet, Rhys Thomas, demonstrated the fascinating science behind the ancient art of juggling, during his “Science of Juggling” show at OMSI on the weekend of May 17th.

“It’s part of my ‘Science Circus’ show,” Thomas said, as he set up his props for an afternoon show – er, class.

We asked Thomas – considered by many to be the best variety arts entertainer on the west coast, and a former Smithsonian artist-in-residence – how he came up with the concept of blending entertainment and education.

Thomas jokingly asks for a volunteer with “juggling experience” to help on stage. But Angela Kaurin proves her skill with three-ball juggling!

“When I was first started out as a juggler, back in 1987, I was doing great as a street performer,” Thomas recalled.

“Then winter showed up, and I had to figure out how I can get off the streets and get into a building. I researched the science behind juggling, and created a show that teaches physics, using juggling tricks. I started performing in schools and museums – and I’ve been doing it ever since.”

With a young man standing by to catch flying balls, Thomas demonstrates why rhythm – based on math – makes juggling possible, as he keeps five balls in the air.

The Portland-based entertainer/educator’s show teaches concepts such as gyroscopic stability – using a spinning a ball; and inertia – by pulling the tablecloth out from under the dishes; and, gravity – by juggling all kinds of items.

“By juggling a bowling ball, a juggling ball, and a ping-pong ball, I demonstrate how gravity pulls objects down at the same rate of speed regardless of their mass.”

“But how do you demonstrate centripetal force?” we ask.

“What could be better than with a cowboy’s lariat?” Thomas said as he grabbed a rope and started it spinning.

Thomas demonstrates gravity’s equal pull on objects of differing masses, using three balls: bowling, juggling, and ping-pong.

As the show got underway, none of Thomas’ students had problems paying attention, as he demonstrated scientific principles using flower sticks, balancing tools, spinning ribbons, and hula hoops.

“I hope my performances spark a youngster’s interest in learning more about science,” Thomas said with a sly smile. “Or, juggling!”

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News