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

You see their marching band and dance team in the Portland Rose Festival parade every year – now, learn about the fabulous, colorful stage show that only a very few are privileged to attend …

Some of the musicians we meet backstage from Shu-te High School band in Kaohsiung, R.O.C. give us a smile, before going onstage for their show.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
The only officially-sanctioned 2008 Portland Rose Festival event that took place east of 82nd Avenue of Roses was a stage performance of the Shu-te High School students from Kaohsiung, R.O.C., at the Horner Performance Arts Center on the David Douglas High School campus this week.

Although each of the three performances on June 9 was given before a standing-room-only audience, we find that very few folks even know this energetic, colorful, and emotionally-moving show took place. We later found out why this event got so little publicity, as we’ll explain — please read on!

David Douglas School District Superintendent Barbara Rommel greets the standing-room-only audience, in the Horner Performing Arts Center on the high school’s campus.

Meeting the band
Before the show, we went backstage with the theater’s manager, Mark Taylor.

In the scenic shop, we stopped to talk with some of the student musicians. Without the aid of an interpreter, our meeting limited to mutual smiles. When we held up the camera, they immediately struck a group pose, as one would expect from teenagers.

In the past, all of the musicians and dancers from Shu-te High School were female. The young ladies pointed out a young man in their midst and said, “We now have one boy playing with us. It is so exciting!”

Dancers warm up before their energetic performance on the stage at David Douglas High School.

Music and movement
After the introduction of representatives from the city and schools of Kaohsiung, the Portland-Kaohsiung Sister City Association, the Portland Rose Festival, and David Douglas School District, the band played and the curtain went up the show – entitled “The Night of Kaohsiung”.

During their music-and-dance number, “The Gorgeous Spring”, the dancers depicted a field of flowers as they opened. Nine acts followed; five of the numbers featured the band only. The fourth presentation featured a spirited drum solo, played by a diminutive young lady with such gusto that the hall reverberated.

Taylor and his crew of David Douglas High theater arts students provided professional, evocative lighting that enhanced every scene.

Dancers perform a work entitled “The Gorgeous Spring”.

Locals host world travelers
“For the past 15 years, student ambassadors from Shu-te High School have been hosted by Portland-area families during their Portland stay,” said the coordinator of the event, Dr. Richard Cole, Ph.D., when we talked with him after the group’s last Portland appearance.

“The reason the event isn’t promoted is that the host families are the focus of the evening performance. If tickets remain, they are distributed to others involved in our ‘sister city’ program,” explained Cole.

Earlier that day, the young visiting entertainers give two performances, before groups of fifth-grade students in the David Douglas School District, Cole said. “Our students were able to gain a first-hand understanding of the music, dance, and celebration enjoyed in China. It is that kind of education that helps promote international understanding.”

In addition to their being invited to this special program, members of several past host families have kept in contact with the girls they hosted; some have traveled to Taiwan to visit them. “This is a wonderful first-hand cultural experience for both the hosts and the girls,” noted Cole.

The Shu-te High School Band plays traditional Chinese instruments, some of them invented thousands of years ago.

Helps provide a world view
Cole has been involved in this unique cultural exchange program since the time he was the Curriculum Coordinator at the school district.

“My wife suggested we go and watch their performance in 1993,” recalled Cole. “I was so taken by the performance, I started coordinating the Host Family program, became a board member, and later president of the Portland-Kaohsiung Sister City Association. Even though I retired in 1995, I’ve been with the organization ever since.”

The one-on-one diplomatic exchange between dignitaries and students from Kaohsiung and Portlanders allows people of diverse cultures to gain an understanding of one another, Cole commented. “Over the years, thousands of young people from China have been introduced to American culture and the kindness of our people. And, we have been enriched by their visits and cultural performances.”

“Rising Winds and Surging Clouds” dance depicts a storm chasing the dragons underground.

Visitors have a full schedule
The reason more performances of the Shu-te High School band and dance troupe aren’t scheduled is that their six-day stay is packed with activities. Other that taking time for a sightseeing trip around the Mt. Hood loop, the students have a full schedule.

“They rehearse for and participate in the Portland Rose Festival Grand Floral Parade,” noted Cole. “Some of the girls take part in the International Friendship Race at the Dragon Boat races. Then, they rehearse, and prepare for their three shows on Monday.”

Dramatic lighting enhance the tightly choreographed dance numbers presented by the troupe.

Calls it a fabulous program
David Douglas School District Superintendent Barbara Rommel talked with us about the educational exchange program.

“We’ve had a long-standing sister-school relationship with Shu-te High,” Rommel said. “The interaction, especially between the host families in the homes where our student guests stay, is a culturally broadening experience.”

In addition to the truly fabulous performance, Rommel added, “It is critically important for our students to have knowledge in other parts of the world. This relationship broadens their appreciation of the arts in another part of the world. It shows us all that people who live in a land distant and different from ours are also caring, talented, and intelligent.”

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

See why and how three Portland cops are taking on as many as 50 prostitution-pushing pimps throughout the city – and occasionally winning the vice battle …

Portland Police Bureau’s Drug & Vice Division (DVD) chief, Sgt. Doug Justice, tells a group of citizens how they’re trying to stop pimps from using young girls as prostitutes.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Neighbors and businesspeople who came to the Portland Police Bureau East Precinct Commander’s Forum on June 3 were expecting to hear safe mailing tips from a US Post Office inspector – who cancelled at the last minute.

Instead, neighbors learned why it appears as prostitution is blooming in Portland like June roses. Portland Police Bureau Drug & Vice Division (DVD) chief, Sgt. Doug Justice, was the featured speaker.

Going after the pimps
“The crime of prostitution is a misdemeanor,” Justice began. “‘DVD’ operates with myself and two other officers, and we cover entire City of Portland. For this reason, we focus on putting the pimps in prison.”

Right off, Justice told the group that the “DVD” doesn’t deal with street-level prostitution. “We’re not out in uniform and in police cars.  Most [street prostitution] missions are done at Precinct level. For example, officers here at East Precinct will catch and arrest both prostitutes and johns (customers).”

Justice didn’t blame the Multnomah County District Attorney’s office for the marked increase in prostitution activity citywide, noting “The DA’s office is short-staffed, like we are. They focus on prosecuting cases dealing with dangerous criminals.”

He did add that, if it is a prostitute’s first offence, the case is usually dismissed. “But, many times, the same girl gets arrested over and over again. The cases continue to get dismissed, or ‘written down’ to a lesser charge, like loitering.”

There’s nothing sexy or cute about young teenagers being coerced into prostitution, Sgt. Justice says.

Sex slaves, not ‘pretty babes’
“It’s really troubling. We’re seeing many more girls – and I’m talking about juveniles between the ages of 14 and 16 – being pulled into prostitution by pimps,” Justice proclaimed. “Our highest priority is working on cases dealing with juveniles.”

The vice sergeant told about interviewing a 20-year-old prostitute who talked about her life with him. “She said her dad started raping her at 11, saying this was the way ‘fathers show their love for their daughters’. She ran away from home and fell into the clutches of a pimp. Since then, she’s been pimped out all over the country. When she was arrested, she was sent back home where her father raped her again, until she escaped – sadly, into the arms of another pimp.”

Asked if the young women are drugged, Justice gave a surprising answer. “No, typically their pimps want their ‘girls’ clean and sober. Johns don’t want to be with a sloppy, drugged-out prostitute. Pimps take advantage of the fact the girls are severely emotionally damaged.”

Nailing a Portland pimp
At that meeting, Justice spoke vaguely about a case DVD Officer Meghan Burkeen was putting together against a pimp. He didn’t give details for fear of jeopardizing the case. But what happened subsequently told the story.

Because this pimp kept slipping away from them, Burkeen turned to the Crimestoppers program, and put up cash award for turning in 30-year-old Larry Clement Richardson. This week, he was arrested. At 6’11”, and 250 pounds, Richardson was hard to miss.

On June 10, about 11:24 pm, Richardson was taken into custody at the Arbor Glen Apartments, 2609 SE 145th Avenue. Police spokesperson Officer Cathe Kent reported that two citizen tips led police to the 145th Avenue address.

Police accuse this man, 30-year-old Larry Clement Richardson, of multiple charges involving prostitution.

Used 15-year-old runaways
Richardson was on the run, we learned, because the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office had set $1,045,000 bail on him for two counts of Compelling Prostitution, four counts of Promoting Prostitution, five counts of Sex Abuse in the Second Degree, and two counts of Sodomy in the First Degree.

Sgt. Justice filled us in on this alleged predatory pimp after Richardson was in custody.

“Richardson was using two 15-year-old girls as prostitutes,” Justice related. “One of the girls is a runaway, and then got picked up for prostitution. She revealed her pimp. Officer Burkeen began an investigation.”

Officers doggedly retraced their steps, going to motel after motel along N. Interstate Avenue, where Richardson had reportedly stayed. “The motel managers confirmed that they’d been registered there. The story checked out, and we got an indictment against him.”

One down, 49 pimps to go
However, Portlanders who are concerned about children being used as prostitutes shouldn’t be breathing easy, now that Richardson is behind bars, Justice said.

At any given time, he confided, there are up to 50 pimps “running” women –not all of them under-age – in Portland on any given day. “We have our local pimps, but others travel in – bringing their prostitutes with them – from Vegas, LA, Sacramento, and Seattle.”

Under age individuals arrested for prostitution are often released from the Donald Long Juvenile Justice Center within hours – and back into the arms of their abusive family – or even worse … a pimp.

Flawed Juvenile Justice system
Justice echoed the sentiments of other DVD officials who have preceded him – and social service workers who help prostitutes break free of their pimps: Some jail time helps the process.

“In a real sense, these girls are victims,” Justice said. “We’re trying to get the Multnomah County Juvenile Justice system to hold them. But often, they’re out – and back with their pimp – before we have the chance to interview them. We can’t even get them held for 36 hours. They say they are not a danger to themselves.”

If the DVD officers can talk with a young girl caught on prostitution charges, they’ll often open up, Justice explained. “They tell us they don’t want to be sent ‘home’, where they’ll be abused; but they don’t want to go back to the pimp. If they’re kept in a secure facility for even a few days, these hardened street-wise girls start to become little girls again.”

In other cities, when prostitutes are separated from their pimps for a week, they’ll often talk with detectives, turn in their pimps, and have the opportunity to escape from a life of prostitution, he added.

Sgt. Justice says he’s happiest when yet another pimp – using children as prostitutes – goes behind bars.

Calls effort a ‘Band Aid’
The bottom line, said Justice, is that as long as citizens keep turning a blind eye, and don’t regard prostitution as a “real” crime, we can expect to see an increase in sex-for-sale in Portland.

“Pimps drop off dancers at strip clubs, and take their money when they pick them up,” Justice said. “We have hard evidence of sex being sold in ‘modeling parlors’, but the cases are seldom prosecuted. The word’s gotten out: We’re seeing prostitutes being brought in from China and Korea. We realize that what we’re doing is a ‘Band Aid’ – but we’ll keep doing it.”

Welcome to Porn-land, Oregon
The word is that the District Attorney’s office is hesitant to prosecute – and judges to convict – sex acts for money, if they take place behind closed doors.

Because of this attitude, online services like Craig’s List offers up hundreds of daily listings that openly promote sex-for-cash services; modeling parlors run unabated, and strip clubs keep popping up all over the city.

Coming soon: Part 2
Street Sex — Prostitution blooms on Avenue of Roses

People who operate businesses, live near the street or travel 82nd Avenue of Roses have noted a sharp increase of prostitutes openly plying their trade – and they’re certainly not doing it behind closed doors.

Next: Learn what the police are doing to try and curb this activity – and why they’re getting limited results, even though they make one arrest after another.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Learn how this annual event delights young people, while it introduces their parents to this unique outer East Portland natural beauty spot …

Leach Botanical Garden volunteer Mary Lou Koehler helps Cian Colgrove make a bark planting – as his aunt, Marianne Colgrove, approvingly looks on.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
An annual event that signals the turn of spring into summer is the Leach Botanical Garden Children’s Nature Fair. Even with soaring temperatures and under a blistering-hot sun, the May 17 event drew record crowds.

Fair promotes new visitors
“The Nature Fair is a way to expose Leach Botanical Garden to the public,” explained its organizer, Katie Goodwin, “especially to people who live right here in Southeast Portland. I’ve had a number people say that they didn’t know about the garden they came to the event today. This is a wonderful way to broaden our support base – by having young families come and discover our garden.”

The coordinator of the Nature Fair, Katie Goodwin, says she’s pleased at the turnout for the event.

As we stood under the lush and green canopy of trees, Goodwin, a volunteer on the education committee and chair of the Nature Fair, beamed about the event’s success. “Today we’ve had over 300 people come to our ‘home’; that’s a record for us. About half of the visitors were children.”

Activities included making wooden “cookies”, sun catchers, and bookmarks. Kids got to dig in the dirt and do planting. The more hearty youths enjoyed the spider and insect displays.

Deena Townsen visiting from Vancouver, Washington, shows us her drawing of the Zenger Farm “visiting chicken”.

“A popular activity was going on a fossil dig with a Portland Parks & Recreation specialist,” Goodwin added. “We even had a chicken visit us here,from Zanger Farms.”

Next event: English Tea
As we were leaving, Goodwin reminded us that, although the Leach gets some support from Portland Parks & Recreation, volunteers must hold events to raise money to keep improving the grounds.

“On July 16 and 17, there’s an English Tea at Leach Botanical Garden. Visitors will enjoy a three-course English Tea served on the east terrace. This tea is elegantly served by volunteers on antique dishware and table linens. It features premium tea, scones, sandwiches, and desserts,” Goodwin promised.

Treat your friends, or take a young person to enjoy a bit of historical culture here in outer East Portland. Reserve now for July 16th or 17th; seating is at noon or 2:30 pm. Just $25 per person – and it all goes to help further the work of the Friends of Leach Garden. This event usually sells out, so call Jean at (503) 771-2486 now to reserve your place.

Doing some planting at the Nature Fair are Bode (sitting on the table), his sister Corinna, and his mom Tanya Petrich.

Tours every Saturday
You need not require a special event to enjoy Leach Botanical Garden; it is open daily. And, at 10 a.m. every Saturday morning, they host a tour of the grounds.

Leach Botanical Garden is located at 6704 SE 122nd Avenue (just south of Foster Road).

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Even though they are 1/10th scale models, see these hand-made watercraft zip around the Westmoreland Casting Pond at speeds up to 50 mph at this new Portland Rose Festival event …

These model racers, running on the Westmoreland Casting Pond, travel actual speeds of up to 50 mph.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
While it wasn’t the hoped-for return of the famed Milk Carton Boat Races – a watercraft competition of a different sort did return to inner SE Portland at the renovated Westmoreland Casting Pond on May 24, as part of the Portland Rose Festival.

“We’re racing 1/10th scale models of unlimited hydroplanes today,” explains Nelson Holmberg, the event’s Race Director for their club, Electric Radio Controlled Unlimiteds.

The drivers of the scale model boats pilot their craft standing on scaffolding on the west side of the pond.

“We love the Westmoreland Casting Pond,” Holmberg says. “It’s one of those places that is, in a sense, made for model boat racing. It’s shallow enough that the water stays calm; it’s perfectly shaped and sized.  It’s proving to be user-friendly for both the competitors and spectators.”

Proud to be a Rose Festival event
Although he grew up in, and still lives in, Vancouver, Holmberg tells us the Portland Rose Festival as always been “near and dear” to him. “It’s just great, bringing down members from our club – largely based in the Seattle area – to participate in a Rose Festival event located here at this facility – man, I just love it!”

While we speak, we hear Holmberg’s voice professionally and calmly counting down to the start of the next race. “That voice is recorded on our computerized timing system; it assures that every racer is given an equal opportunity to start the race in the correct position.”

SE Portland resident David Reiser prepares his scale racer, a replica of the 1958 “Breathless II” unlimited hydroplane for the next race.

Men with toy boats
While many members are from the Puget Sound area, we learn the club has about 20 active members in the greater Portland area.

Working under a canopy we meet long time inner SE Portland resident David Reiser, working on his boat – a replica of the 1958 “Breathless II” unlimited hydroplane. “In boat racing circles, it’s quite famous,” Reiser says. “It ran for three years under this name. I saw a photo of it, got ahold of the original plans, and built it.”

The race boats kick up their signature “rooster-tail” as they make the turn on the north end of the course.

As he inspects the boat, he points out that his model is crafted from wood, like the original. He points out how he’s painted the deck to simulate the 4′ x 8′ sheets of plywood used to build the original boat. We learn these scale-model speedboats cost about $2,000 to build and equip – the battery packs alone run up to $150 each. “It allows me the experience the thrills and speed of racing, without risk of injury and the expense of full-size craft.”

Having been involved with the hobby since the early 1990s, Reiser tells us the best thing about it is associating with friends who also like model boating. “It’s grown men playing with toy boats. I also enjoy the technical and engineering challenges of building and driving them.”

Considered an originator of this hobby and sport, Roger Newton shows us his winning racer, a scale model of “Miss Bardahl”.

Scale boat racing originator
People at the event told us to meet Roger Newton from Renton, Washington – acclaimed as one of the originators of model boat racing.

“I started racing scale boats back in 1968,” says Newton, “I’ve been doing it ever since.” He’s working on his model of “Miss Bardahl” at the meet. “It’s one of the most famous boats in racing history.”

Battery powered scale electric powered boats are relatively new, Newton informs us. “The electrics go pretty fast, probably close to 50 mph – it would equate to 150 mph if it were full scale.”

Newton comments that, while he enjoys running the battery-powered boats, he still likes the 1/8th scale “nitro” craft that run on a combination of white gas and nitro-methane fuel. “They do make a lot of noise; I’m pretty sure the neighbors wouldn’t be appreciative.”

About the Westmoreland Casting Pond, Newton comments, “Like it? I love it! I wish I had this in my backyard! It’s a good size, good location, and it’s got … water!”

Scale model race boats enthusiasts say this hobby gives them all of the thrills of the sport – without associated cost or danger.

Get racing here
If you’d like to know more about scale model boat racing, check out the clubs web site by CLICKING HERE.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News Service

Looks like their second season will be a “barn buster” – read this, and see what you’ll find – including their new barn …

Thanks to material donors – and volunteer labor provided by Stark Construction Services – this barn is now finished, in time for the opening of Montavilla Farmer’s Market’s second season.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Coming off their premiere season last year, the Montavilla Farmer’s Market is set to open on June 8.

This season, Montavilla’s market will feature its own landmark – a custom built barn.

Roger Stark, Jesse Stark, and Greg Anderson with Stark Construction Services here work to complete a custom-built barn, on the farmer’s market site.

Builders host ‘barn-raising’
“We’re volunteering our time to help out here at the Montavilla Farmer’s Market, by building the storage barn,” said Jesse Stark, between hammering nails. “They need a place to store the tents and shares on site.”

His wife, Tonia Stark, president of Stark Construction Services, is also the volunteer coordinator for the market. “We pulled together a [building] crew and some volunteers to get the site ready for another season.”

The crew built the barn from scratch. “Mr. Plywood donated about $500 worth of materials,” Stark said, noting that that New Seasons Markets also donated $1,000 toward the project, and that neighboring Flying Pie Pizzeria fed the volunteers who were preening the lot.

Nancy Yates works with Tonia Stark to clean up the Montavilla Farmers Market lot.

Grooming the grounds
“We’re also cleaning up the lot for opening day,” Stark added. “We’re weeding, and filling in the gravel and empty spots, so there won’t be puddles when it rains.”

Laboring with her was volunteer Nancy Yates. “I live nearby, and thought it was time for me to get out and help. I love the community aspect of having a farmer’s market here.”

Vendors on parade
Folks who go to visit the market will find a wide variety of vendors waiting for them. Scheduled to be there

Produce:

• Groundwork Organics, Junction City OR
• Deep Roots Farms, Albany OR
• Maryhill Orchards, Goldendale WA
• Kiyokawa Family Orchards, Parkdale OR
• Tamiyasu Orchards, Hood River OR
• Baird Family Orchards, Dundee OR
• Herr’s Family Farm, Troutdale OR
• Spellbound Farm, Portland OR
• PD Farms, Elgin OR
• Liepold Farms, Boring OR

Flower/Plant:

• Herr’s Family Farm, Troutdale OR
• American-Asian Quality Farm, Oregon City OR
• Maple Valley Nursery, Dayton OR
• Old House Dahlias, Portland OR (in Montavilla)

Bakery:

• Fleur de Lis Bakery, Portland OR
• Gabriels Bakery, Portland OR

On-Premise Ready-To-Eat Foods:

• Asian American Food-Chinese
• Hacienda-Tamales
• Wild Wild West BBQ
• Buns on the Run

Beverages:

• Cellar Door Coffee Roasters
• Liquid Sunshine

Processed Foods:

• Crabapple Company, Beaverton OR
• Must Love Dogs, Portland OR

Opening day entertainment
Organizers of the market say they’ll have live entertainment every Sunday. This week, Southern Skies – a folk music duo from Olympia, Washington – will entertain. And, a certified Master Gardener will be on hand to demonstrate sustainable growing techniques.

Kicking off the season on Sunday, June 8, the market will be open every Sunday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. until Sunday, October 5, except on July 6th, Independence Day weekend. The market takes place on the 7600 block of SE Stark Street in the gravel lot across from Mr. Plywood.

For more information, CLICK HERE to see their web site!

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Traditional high school settings don’t meet the needs of all students. See how this unique school gives young people skills – and pays them while they go to school …

Not your ordinary teachers, Carly Boynton (on the mini-track backhoe) and Bill Kowalczyk say their classrooms are at building sites like this one, on SE Schiller Street.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
For many young people in outer East Portland, college is out of the question; for some, even getting a high school diploma seems like nearly unreachable goal. Without marketable skills, the future for these youth seems bleak.

“Our school, Portland YouthBuilders (PYB), is both a high school and a pre-apprenticeship program. All of our students are kids who dropped out of high school,” explained PYB’s construction manager, Bill Kowalczyk, as we visited him at his “classroom” – a house construction site in Lents.

“This program is an opportunity for them to change their lives by taking on the challenge of being successful academically – as well as preparing for the working world – when they complete our program,” Kowalczyk said.

Two-year school & work program
Portland YouthBuilders offers young people, ages 17 to 24, a two-year program. The first year is primarily in the classroom; then they work on a jobsite for 12 months. After that, the PYB staff provides follow-up mentoring, counseling and guidance services, guiding the students to whatever secondary education direction they choose.

“This program isn’t for a fixed period of time where they graduate from high school, and things are over and done,” Kowalczyk told us. “We look at training as a process. We develop the tools to help students develop incrementally, and move toward success.”

Molly Yong, Julia Vosmik, and Ryan Marr work to prepare the area inside the structure’s foundation, where the slab will be poured.

Learn and earn
Another unusual feature of the PYB program is that the students don’t pay for their specialized training; they actually get paid to participate.

“They don’t get paid wages,” Kowalczyk clarified, “they get paid a stipend to help them get through. A lot of our students already have children; some of them several children. Having a stipend means, for a lot of our students, the difference of being able to participate in this program or not. They’re really working hard to develop strategies to be successful in life.”

As many as 40 percent of these students will go directly into construction, the instructor said. Others will get a GED and go on to some form of secondary education. “We use a construction format as a means of teaching job-readiness skills, and teaching about the industries,” Kowalczyk went on.

Partner with ROSE and Land Trust
At the site of their current project on SE Schiller Street and SE 104th Avenue, the students poured the concrete footings for what will eventually be a two-story, four-bedroom home. Then, working with a professional concrete finisher, they poured the foundation and started framing the home.

PYB construction trainer Carly Boynton hopped down from the backhoe she was operating, and told us that she and the students have been working on this jobsite for about three months. “This project is a great opportunity for our students to work on an Energy Star certified house from foundation to finish.”

The home is being built for ROSE Community Development Corporation, and will be sold to a low-income buyer through the Portland Community Land Trust. The new house will be ready for a family to move into later this year, Boynton added.

Since we first reported this story, we revisited the site – the house is really taking shape!

Calls it a ‘life changing experience’
“For me, PYB is a life-changing experience,” said student Julia Vosmik. “It’s giving me a career and helping me change direction to where I want to go in life. It’s like the family you’ve never had.”

In addition to construction, PYB also offers a computer maintenance educational track.

If you know of a student who might qualify for the program and could be interested in checking out the program, contact Portland YouthBuilders in person at 4816 SE 92nd Avenue (a block south of SE Holgate Boulevard), or call (503) 771-2309. To visit their web site, CLICK HERE.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

See what planners learned when they checked in with residents – including kids – while drawing up plans for the 15-acre Beech Park site …

Park consultant Aaron Abrams writes down neighbors’ suggestions, as Sally McIntyre facilitates the meeting at Shaver Elementary School. Both are from MIG, Inc.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Until neighbor volunteers talked the City of Portland into allowing them to build the small Senn’s Dairy Park on NE Prescott St., the Parkrose neighborhood was entirely devoid of developed parks.

Although the actual creation of an expansive, nearly 16-acre park is still way off in the future, Portland Parks & Recreation has hired a firm to gather input about how the uniquely-situated Beech Park will look when it is improved.

Park on two parcels
The Beech Park site is unusual; it consists of two separate parcels adjacent to Shaver Elementary School.

The 10.07-acre southern parcel is bordered by the school on the east side, and by homes on the south and west sides. Directly north of the school is a second 5.64-acre parcel; bordered on the north and west by houses, on the south by the school and more houses, and on the west by a working urban farm.

This diagram, including an aerial view of the parcels, shows the two sections of land that will make up Beech Park. NE Shaver Street is at the top if the diagram, and Shaver Elementary School is at the bottom right.

Diverse, but harmonious, views expressed
In May, a series of workshops were conducted to solicit ideas and concerns from neighbors, business people – and children.

“There were diverse cultures present at the workshop,” Sally McIntyre, of the parks consulting company, MIG, Inc., told us. “It looked like everyone felt free to participate; and they all seemed to get along very well. We’re hoping that kind of participation continues.”

The consensus gathered from workshops, and questionnaires distributed throughout the surrounding area, showed that folks are “Looking to create a place for neighbors to enjoy, plus have a place that can be used by the school for educational programs,” commented McIntyre. “Our mission is to make sure the designs reflect what people want; that it fits in with the nature of the neighborhood.”

We stopped in at one workshop (on May 19). The back wall of the Shaver Elementary School gym was covered with design ideas which the school’s kids had submitted earlier in the day. About 35 adults were there, sharing their dreams for the park’s development.

“The kids were really interested in having ‘water features’ on the site,” noted McIntyre.

Comments and concerns raised
Al Garre – he farms land to the west of the park parcels – posed questions about access within and around the park. “I hope there’s some way of discouraging vehicles from entering and damaging the park – then hopping a barrier and damaging the farmland.”

A neighbor voiced the opinion that there should be a building for arts and crafts and for both child and adult education. Other folks chimed in, saying they hope for collaboration between the school and the Parks Bureau to develop joint-use areas.

Wondering out loud of there could be a way for kids to “take some ownership” of the park, Argay Neighborhood Chair Valerie Curry wanted youths to feel sufficiently possessive of the park that if they were to see vandalism or illegal activities taking place there, they would report it.

“Who is going to be there to clean up the mess?” questioned Curry. “In Argay Park there is a constant cleanup of messes visitors leave in the park.”

Children were given the opportunity to have a say in the design of Beech Park. These are a few of the diagrams annotated by kids during the public input process.

Consultant addresses issues
“Our recommendations will consider the concerns of the farmers, as well as the neighbors directly surrounding the park,” McIntyre informed us after the meetings. “The best way to create a safe park is to design one that attracts many people throughout the day. It discourages people from misusing the park. We’ll look at sight-line issues as well.”

For the past few weeks, McIntyre and the staff of Portland-based MIG, Inc. – a consulting firm that specializes in park planning and design and in public involvement in design projects – have been conducting this sort of ascertainment process in the area.

“Both adults and kids have been interested in contributing to the ‘art element’ of the space,” McIntyre told us this week. “It’s not so much having separate art objects, as simply having areas artistically designed. There could be ways to incorporate children’s art and other kinds of art in that way. There may be some ways to reflect different cultures in the neighborhood.”

The next steps
Working with Portland Parks & Recreation, the consultants will develop three alternative plans.

“We’ll be working on this through the month of July,” McIntyre said. “We’ll have a booth at the Parkrose Farmer’s Market on July 26. We hope everybody comes out and takes a look at the alternatives.”

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

If you haven’t made your thoughts known about the City’s project to reduce Johnson Creek’s flooding – read this, and learn how to respond …

It was only a few months ago when winter storms flooded homes and businesses along SE Foster Blvd. This program aims to reduce flooding when it is completed in two years.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Although City of Portland Bureau of Environmental Services (BES) previously said they would stop taking comments at the end of May, they’ve now extended the public comment period on the East Lents Floodplain Restoration Project Pre-Design Report until June 23, 2008.

To read about this report — and neighbors’ reactions so far  — CLICK HERE.

This is one of the two diagrams that details how the City of Portland plans to improve the floodplain in Lents, just south of SE Foster Rd.

According to Marie Johnson, on the BES Johnson Creek Watershed Team, the bureau extended the comment period in the hope that more citizens in the area might respond to the design reports.

The project, designed to reduce flood damage in Lents by improving floodplain functions and wildlife habitat on BES property, is slated for construction in summer 2010.

Do you prefer this alternative? Let the folks at the bureau know by registering your comments!

Comment by June 23
You can view the Pre-design Report and a supporting technical memo – and register your comments directly with the BES by CLICKING HERE.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

This event is truly “for the birds” – take a look and discover why …

Portland Audubon Society volunteer Virginia Ross shows off Jack, an American kestrel.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Hundreds of avian admirers once again flocked to Sellwood Park on a couple of Saturdays ago to celebrate International Migratory Bird Day at a special event.

“Three partners put on the ‘Festival of the Birds’ to bring attention to the migratory birds that pass through here,” said Karen Munday, Urban Wildlife Specialist at the Portland Audubon Society. “U.S. Fish and Wildlife, the Audubon Society, and Portland Parks and Recreation all participate in this event.”

Karen Munday, Urban Wildlife Specialist at Portland Audubon Society, coordinates the festival.

On the intercontinental ‘freeway’ for birds
It’s important to pay attention to migratory birds that pass through Portland, Munday said, “Birds migrate from the northern regions down south, along the Pacific Flyway. Because Portland is a stop along their migratory path, we need to help protect the habitat they use, right here, in our own back yard.”

Visitors to the festival were treated to guided bird walks. On these walks, they learned that 200 different bird species can be found in the greater Portland area. They saw, with the help of their guides, wild bald eagles, great blue herons, osprey, and dozens of species of waterfowl and songbirds that make their homes in Oaks Bottom.

Telling visitors about Hazel, a northern spotted owl, is Audubon’s James Mier.

Meeting feathered friends
Along Sellwood Park’s western walkway, tented stations provided bird-related crafts for kids and information for adults.

“We’re encouraging people to protect urban habitat,” explained Munday. “And, we’re asking them to help make our area more bird-friendly by doing things like planting native plants in their backyards, and keeping cats indoors.”

Youngsters Dakota and Miller Heikes, and Chloe Hemelstrand, get to experience how birds eat.

Along the way, we met Jack. His handler, Virginia Ross, an Audubon Society volunteer, said Jack is an American kestrel, the smallest of the falcon family.

On the arm of another Audubon volunteer, James Mier, we were introduced to Hazel, a northern spotted owl. “She’s about five years old. Her injured wing was damaged; she can’t fly so she’s not releasable.”

Information specialist Nancy Pollot of the US Fish and Wildlife Service helps homeowners learn about the native plants and flowers most favored by migrating birds.

Improving avian habitat
Nancy Pollot, US Fish and Wildlife service, was visiting with those who stopped at her booth, teaching about plants favored by birds.

“This plant is a red osier dogwood,” informed Pollot. “Birds and butterflies love these; and they’re native to Oregon. They grow without much maintenance, and attract wildlife. It flowers in the spring, and by the end of summer, it grows little white berries that the birds like.”

A highlight of the festival was the release a rehabilitated Red-tailed Hawk back into the wild, Munday said. “The hawk was set free after nearly three months recovering from an illegal gunshot injury.”

Coloring handbags at the festival are Annecy Crabtree, Mira Henri, and Brandt Henri.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News Service