Business and unions weren’t satisfied with the office; see who’s donated what to make this “cop shop” an attractive addition to the neighborhood …

Portland Police Bureau East Precinct Commander Michael Crebs tells Sergeant John Anderson, “This is looking really good.”

Story and photo by David F. Ashton
The first step to getting a Portland Police Bureau East Precinct substation in the Parkrose district was finding the location. The Rossi family helped out by giving the cops a favorable lease ($1 per year) on an office on NE Sandy Blvd.

While the interior of the office was adequate, area companies and volunteers wanted this substation to be a showplace.

Business and unions pitch in
Sergeant John Anderson has been guiding the project. He said that Parkrose Hardware has helped out a great deal in refinishing the police substation.  “They’ve donated the paint, lighting fixtures, locks, and exterior lighting, and the store manager has helped us take out the old fixtures and install the new lights.”

Western Pacific Lumber donated the wood trim and wainscoting borders for the office walls. Volunteers from the Painters Union, Local No. 10 – their union hall is just across the street – gave the office a professional paint job. “And, and inmate work crews from Multnomah County Jail will come out and help us by pressure-washing the outside of the building,” Anderson said.

Police presence in Parkrose
“The citizens want to have a police bureau close by,” said Portland Police Bureau East Precinct Commander Michael Crebs, as he checked the progress of the substation. “People will be able to get crime prevention information, crime statistics, and ask a question or put in a request for an officer here.”

The office will open in a few weeks, we’re told. This summer, officers plan on holding an open house to officially inaugurate the new facility.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

See why this group, which usually performs at their studio in the Gateway area, is now heading to the Newmark Theater on April 5 …

The White Rabbit (Riley Willis); two Tweedles (Annie Willis and Sophie Gunz); and the Cheshire Cat (Emily Sevy) suspect they might be late to a very important date!

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
The Metro Dancers, part of Portland Metro Performing Arts Center (PMPA), have been rehearsing and polishing their parts as they get ready for their production of “Alice in Wonderland” this weekend.

All of Lewis Carroll’s beloved characters from his two marvelous books,  “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland” and “Through the Looking Glass”, will be on stage in this unique music and ballet production.

The White Queen (Meng Paulson) dances her part with grace and ease.

“Remember the busy White Rabbit, the mysterious Cheshire Cat, and the domineering Queen of Hearts?” asks PMPA’s executive director, Nancy Yeamans, as we watch some of the production numbers being rehearsed.

“They’re all here! It’s an absolutely wonderful, fun visual feast for kids and adults. It’s got spectacular music, and it has outrageously wonderful costumes done by fabric artists.”

Red Queen is played by grade school teacher Karin Schulz; her class will be coming to see her. Her dancing partner is the Red King (Dave Larison).

Audience members will go on a visit to the Tea Party, the Chess Game, the Nursery Book, and the Garden of Live Flowers. Watch as Alice tries to play her way through a game of croquet with flamingoes for mallets, and some uncooperative playing cards as wickets. Winning is losing, in the illogical logic of Wonderland.

There are still seats available, but this show isn’t at the PMPA hall in Gateway.

This production will be presented onstage April 5 at the Portland Center for the Performing Arts, Newmark Theatre, 1111 SW Broadway St. at 2:00 pm & 7:00 pm. Tickets are $20 for high school age kids and adults; $14 for children

For more information, see www.pdxmetroarts.org or call (503) 408-0604.

Who is winning this dizzy chess game? In Wonderland, it makes no difference – it’s all for fun!

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Read exclusive full text of Sam Adams’ and Sho Dozono’s first eastside face-off here. Missed it? Find where you can meet the candidates on April 10, in Gateway …

Mayoral candidates Sho Dozono and Sam Adams are about to make their first outer East Portland appearance here, before the East Portland Chamber of Commerce as Dan LaGrande introduces the program.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
While it may have annoyed the other dozen (yes, there are 14 in total) mayoral candidates that they weren’t all invited to talk before the East Portland Chamber of Commerce (EPCC), the two leading candidates – Sam Adams and Sho Dozono – squared off at their first joint outer East Portland meeting.

The Chamber’s Governmental Affairs Chair, Ken Turner, urges chamber members to take an active role in this election.

Standing before about 60 members, guests, and press representatives, EPCC’s Governmental Affairs Chair, Ken Turner, set the stage: “With this election, the profile of the entire Portland City Council will change. Be a part of it!”

Instead of complaining about city government, Turner extolled taking an active part: “I challenge you to make sure that you vote. Insist that your family do the same; go to your friends and businesses associates and convince them that this is a very important election. It’s going to be up to every one of you to make sure the change is something that you want.”

Former television newsman, and EPCC Publicity and Marketing Chair, Dan LaGrande of LaGrande Public Relations guides the morning’s program on April 2, held at CherryWood Village.

“There are winners and there are whiners,” LaGrande said. “The winners are here in this room because you care enough about city politics to be here, and be involved in the process.”

Note: We’ve shortened the candidate’s introductions. At the end of this article are links to each candidate’s web site; we urge you to read about the candidates for yourself. Also, rather than characterize comments and responses made by Adams and Dozono, we’re presenting a lightly edited transcript of their remarks.

Mayoral candidate Sam Adams speaks.

Introducing Sam Adams
With the order of speaking selected by a coin toss, LaGrande said, “Leaders of 34 of Portland’s neighborhood business districts have personally endorsed Sam Adams for mayor. One of these leaders said, ‘This kind of unprecedented citywide grassroots support happens only when a candidate has earned it with follow-through and results.'”

Sam Adams’ opening statement
“Good morning. It’s good to be back. I want to thank you for this opportunity to speak with you once again about the future of this city. It is very important.

“As you’ve heard, I’ve worked in city government as the Chief of Staff to the former Mayor [Vera Katz], and now I’m a [Portland] City Commissioner. From those experiences, I know there are certain tasks that only the mayor of the City of Portland can provide. And that is leadership – on the direction of the city, and setting the pace for change.

“I think that leadership from our mayor’s office for the last three years has been kind of like treading water. I’m running to bring new energy and vitality and innovation to the mayor’s office, and get Portland movie again.

“This is my fifth or sixth time meeting with you at the East Portland Chamber of Commerce. One of the slogans of my campaign is ‘Because Portland belongs to all of us’.

“I’ve worked as hard as a City Commissioner, as I did as when I was chief of staff for the Mayor, to understand and work with and champion all parts of Portland.

“You seen me in your business districts, in your neighborhoods, and I’m very grateful to have those personal endorsements from the leaders of business districts.  This is a hard group to get support from. Together we made some important changes over the last three years. We just inaugurated the new office of the APNBA (Alliance of Portland Neighborhood Business Associations) in the Olympic Mills building. Working together, we were able to get the Portland City Council fund this organization. We went from a $25,000 grant to a $125,000 program.

“We reduced business license fees for 9,000 businesses – mostly small owner controlled businesses – for the first time in the city’s history.  For the first time we actually lowered taxes on smaller businesses.

“I’ve worked hard to keep and bring new businesses to the city. On 82nd Avenue, I helped bring the Banfield Pet Hospital headquarters here. They were having trouble acquiring an old school building. I help them acquire it. Their new world headquarters is there. They donated [on their property] to the city an off-leash dog park.

Sam Adams

“For the first time in recent history, in the Lents Town Center, we recruited a company that located there, Northwest Assurity. We recruited them from Gresham. It brought in 45 jobs, and created a new cornerstone development, one that was proposed for eight years.”

Adams named several other businesses that said that he helped recruit into the city.

“Why do I do this? I did this because 84% of Portland’s businesses employ 10 or less employees. All businesses are important. Big businesses are important.  But it’s the small businesses that can get crushed and snuffed out more easily.  That’s why I asked the Mayor to create a liaison for small neighborhood businesses, the APNBA. I’ve been working hard to see that key changes are put in place.

“I’m proud to have the support of businesses that used to be very ‘anti-Portland’, including Columbia Sportswear. But this is just the beginning. I look forward to being a Mayor of small businesses as well.

“For the first time we will have a Mayor, if I am elected, that knows the entire city; someone who is working across the entire city. Someone who knows what all the issues are on 82nd Avenue. This is why we work so hard to get to get $11 million for transportation safety and business districts – and why half of that [funding] went to East Portland. It’s because you deserved it.

“You’ll continue to get that kind of attention if I’m elected. Thank you.”

Mayoral candidate Sho Dozono speaks.

Introducing Sho Dozono
“He’s a strong advocate of diversity and equal opportunity.  He is a respected civic and business leader who has devoted his time and energy to being of service to his community,” LaGrande said.

Sho Dozono’s opening statement
“I’ve been part of the ‘whining group’ in the Portland Chamber of Commerce for 20 years. If I wasn’t concerned why people whine, I wouldn’t step up, and I wouldn’t be here this morning.

“I decided, at age 64, I have a lot to give back to the community. That’s why I’m standing here as a candidate for Mayor of the City of Portland. I think leadership is important. I’ve been where you are. You’ve heard about my background; how I grew my business from four to 250 employees. I know a lot about small businesses challenges.

“So why am I so passionate about this city?  I grew up in Portland, on the Eastside. I went to Buckman, Hosford, and graduated from Cleveland High School, class of 1963. I went to Portland State University to get my Masters degree in teaching. I taught at Grant High School from 1971 to 1976, and taught social studies and Japanese language.

“I went into business some 30 years ago. I’ve been there, supporting businesses. A lot of people claim what they’ve done for business. But for years, I was advising the Portland City Council and Mayors, saying what is important. I’ve told them Portland needs to be more business-friendly.

“As new Mayor, I will guarantee you that we will be ‘open for business’, not only nationally but internationally. I’ve been there, multiple times, with every Governor since Governor [Victor] Atiyeh. I’ve traveled abroad looking for businesses not only for Portland but for the entire state of Oregon. I just helped launch new service from Portland to Amsterdam on Saturday. Governor Ted Kulongoski and 65 business and community leaders look for new opportunities for creating more green-collar businesses.

“I’ve been there; I know what can be done and what should be done. We need to change the whole attitude about this. Not just about small business, but also about midsize and large businesses. We need to retain what we have.

“We think about large businesses like Columbia Sportswear, and Nike; we forget that back in 1976, Phil Knight only had five employees. He did a lot better than I did, because I only went from 4 to 250 employees.

“Gert Boyle and Tim Boyle [from Columbia Sportswear] were almost run out of business 20 years ago. They’re another great business story. Small businesses aspire to become big businesses. Large businesses are not our enemy. Small businesses are the backbone of our community; at the same time, we need to be supporting midsize businesses, and recruiting new businesses.

Sho Dozono

“Just this morning, out in Gresham, a new company is coming that makes solar panels. I was involved 20 years ago with Governor Atiyeh and Governor Goldschmidt, recruiting businesses from Japan, because we were dependent on natural resources as the backbone of our state’s economy. It wasn’t going anywhere. [We had a] singular focus on high-tech companies. In 1980 we had 17 Japanese companies here in Oregon; a decade and a half later we have 180 companies here.

“That’s what it takes to rebuild our economy. A green industry, and green-collar jobs is where we need to be focused.

“We have an advantage because we are a community that has sustainable practices. We’re leading in the nation in wind power. We need to support this new industry that is sustainable. That is our future; no longer natural resources.  It is the green-collar businesses.

“As the new Mayor of the City, I would say it is the second-most important political position behind the Governor. Before I even take office, I’ll be calling a business summit to bring together the brightest and best minds forward in civic, political, and business to make sure that we’re ready to be open for business, and knock off the nonsense that Portland is not friendly to business.

“Thank you very much.”

Questions and Answers

Q The real estate market does affect our economy. What do you say to the average person coming to Portland, or who lives in Portland, who wants to own a home today? What would you say about affordability?

Answers

Dozono:
“If I would’ve had more time I would’ve touched on three things: Economy, education, and housing.

“I think what we’ve done in the city of Portland is driven the working class and middle class out of the suburbs and beyond. This is unacceptable.

“We focus too much on homelessness and the lowest of the low income. We have not built enough income for the working-class family throughout the city of Portland.

“I’ve been working with the Portland Development Commission and other resources, to make sure that we build for the future, for the working-class families, affordable housing. This has to be one of the key elements of our future growth. We have to be taking care of our own citizens here.

“The working-class and middle-class families are the backbone of our community. I know what it’s like to grow up on the southeast side. My mother still lives on the southeast side, and she’s 93 years old. At age 64, I tell people, that I have another 20 good years left in me to be part of the solution.  I’ll be part of the solution to building affordable homes for the working-class family.”

Adams:
“So, the question is, ‘How do we do that?’ How do we make houses affordable?’

“The first thing we need to do is to keep the folks who are currently buying their homes, in their homes. The latest statistics show that there are a thousand Portlanders that are close to foreclosure.

“We’re working to put together a plan where those families will have access to the kind of counseling that will have them restructure their debt, and keeping people in the homes they’re already buying is the first thing.

“There are credit counseling folks that are good and certified by the federal government; and there are credit counselors that are not so good, and that prey on people’s vulnerability right now. What we’re doing [in the City Council] in the next couple of weeks is getting the word out on what certified credit counseling services are available in the City of Portland.

“I’ve been one of the leaders on the City Council in terms of seeking to provide more resources for folks to purchase their homes. We have ramped up and increased funding for home ownership programs and home ownership assistance programs. We have a land trust programs where low-income people can buy a house with very little down, and in the future they can sell it at a 10% to 15% profit.  This home is resold to somebody else who also is low income, while allowing more people to get on the equity income ladder.

“Currently we have an $11 million live-and-work project in the Montavilla neighborhood called Milepost Five. It is the largest new investment in Portland. It is focused on the creative class. The building used to be the old Baptist Manor. It has zero City money in it. The units are going from $99, 000 to $275000. By leveraging private sector dollars, they’ve come up with condos that people can work and live in, and sell out of their front door.

“Those kind of innovative approaches are really important to moving forward everybody likes affordable housing everybody wants to have families with kids here.  It’s a question of how you do it.”

Q It seems that the City has money for pet projects, and spends money on things we don’t understand, when our roads and bridges are falling down.  What can you do to change that?

Answers

Dozono:
“I want to talk about priorities. That is one of the themes in my campaign; fiscal responsibility and fiscal accountability.

“I’ve done a lot of coffees [meetings], and heard people say ‘When you have money in the bank account, you call that savings’. City Council, for too long, sees additional income, because the economy is doing well and businesses are paying taxes, and they call it a surplus fund or one-time funding. There was $32 million in the last cycle and $35 million in the cycle before; that’s about $65 million, and they spend every dime of it.

“They don’t think about putting money away for a ‘Rainy Day Fund’. As businesspeople or in a household, you don’t spend all of the money you take in. You put some money aside for the future. We know we’re in a recession today, whether the President [Bush] says the ‘R word’ or not, our economy’s in a downturn. If we’d put something aside, we would be weathering the storm much better.

“What are the priorities of City Council? There are individual priorities or projects. Is there a discussion within the city – within the community and in the area – asking the question, ‘How would you like to spend the money?’

“Or do they simply say, ‘Let’s divide [the excess funds] by five, and if you vote for my project I will vote for yours, and we move forward’. I read this morning about the Sauvie Island Bridge; $5.5 million.

“It’s a great idea – if you have all the money in the world – to have a streetcar on every corner, and build bridges for pedestrians, and build parks. But we don’t have the resources to fix roads. That’s why I think there are missed priorities and missed opportunities to provide core services – [instead of] pet projects.”

Sam Adams

Adams:
“I appreciate the question. The priorities I’ve worked on have included getting more general funding into transportation over the last three years.

“Thanks to a lot of folks in this room, who joined me lobbying City Council, we been able to double the general fund support for transportation. That comes out of that $67 million that the Council received because of the stronger economy.

“It might look like, by a cursory reading of the budget, that the city doesn’t have a Rainy Day Fund; actually it does. It has a $45 million Rainy Day Fund. These are our reserves. That’s why your city government has the highest credit rating that you can get as a municipal corporation; we have an AAA rating.

“In terms of priorities, I’ve tried to get more money to save lives. As Transportation Commissioner, I know there is a reason why some of our roads are so dangerous here in East Portland. There’s been a lack of investment – and a lack of advocacy – from previous Transportation Commissioners to have more general funding go into business districts to improve the safety of those business districts. I think that’s very important.

“I tried to change the mentality of City Council; [a mentality] that they don’t give property tax funding to transportation. They think it should survive, as it always has, on gas tax revenue, parking meter money, and a portion of moving-violation fees. As Transportation Commissioner, I’ve tried to change this mentality to the benefit of East Portland business districts and neighborhoods.

“Together, we reformed transportation SDCs. For too long, a big set SDC exemptions were downtown, and not available to people in East Portland. These are all hard-fought battles to rework the priorities of the city.

“We are all one city; we are all one Portland. And that’s why I’ve fought for new investments in areas that would benefit the entire city, and not just special projects.”

Q As mayor, would you sponsor or support a bond or lending measure to finance police, fire, and transportation departments?

Answers

Adams:
“For the last eight or nine years, I worked with Mayor Katz to get on top of the gang problem – to increase funding for the Portland Police Bureau.

“Right now, we’re looking at using the extra resources that we have to go toward public safety. We need to improve equipment that is out of date so the City can be more responsive to all of you that call 911. Also we need to better equip police cars. And, we need for officers to be able to stop having to write the reports on paper. Most police agencies have moved way beyond that.

“The latest polling shows the Portlanders would not support a bond measure for a new tax for police and fire. They want us to pay for it out of the money that we already collect from you. That’s how I will prioritize is my investments in safety as Mayor. I will not go out for a bond measure for public safety.

“Having said that, [Multnomah] County is potentially looking for a bond measure to open the Wapato jail and to increase drug treatment. If they choose to do that, I will support it.”

Dozono:
“That’s a good question. I’ve had the good fortune of doing a ride-along with a police officer just two nights ago.

“Sam’s right, in terms of updating our computer system within the police force.

“But the sad truth is [the Portland Police Bureau has] 50 positions unfilled today. So it’s not about more money for law enforcement. We cannot recruit enough people to fill the positions we have. I also met with Chief Rosie Sizer last week and learned that, over the next five years, I think we’ll be up to full force.

“At that point, we’ll be putting more money into more law enforcement officers on the street. I support the idea of community policing, and more police on the street. The sad truth is that we have more than adequate funds, we don’t have people to fill positions. We have to work to fill the positions with people of diverse backgrounds who reflect the community that we serve.”

Q What immediate and long-lasting steps can we take to eradicate street crime like drug dealers, prostitution, and other crimes from the streets of East Portland?

Answers

Adams:
“Sho is absolutely right in terms of the struggle the police Bureau has to fill positions that have been authorized. Two weeks ago, in the budget committee that I’m part of, we authorized a sign-up bonus of $5,000; other cities are doing that in the region, and we need to do that.

“Regarding street-level crime: Gang violence is back. The current Mayor cut out uniformed [gang] outreach officers. I’ll bring them back. He removed the gang graffiti detail; I’ll bring them back if I am Mayor. It’s been requested by staff and supported by the Chief – these [special units] are ‘best practice’.

“I’m telling you how we do these things – not just what we need to do.

“There are six uniformed officers working behind a desk in the Portland Police Bureau doing criminal background checks for individuals who have applied to be police officers. We should civilianize these positions, and get those officers out on the street on Gang Detail.

“When I worked for Mayor Vera Katz; I saw what happened when she inherited a gang violence situation. I can tell you, we did not want to let this escalate any further.”

Sho Dozono

Dozono:
“I think the solution is to reflect back on the community where the youth coming from; they are not gainfully engaged in positive activity.

“We should support programs like SUN Schools. The money we invest in prevention is amazingly small. When we talk about pet projects that are useful, that dollar can be invested in prevention.

“[As Mayor, I’ll support] community-based organizations that are culturally competent and know their own community in terms of color and ethnic diversity. I’ll be doubling or tripling money at the front end, so we don’t spend the money on the back end.”

Q What will you do or what do you plan to do to reduce the size of Portland’s government?

Answers

Dozono:
“That’s a winning question! I have not been endorsed by Portland’s city employee union.

“I’m not an advocate for growth in government, as a private sector person for all of my life other than five years as a schoolteacher. I don’t advocate that government is the solution.

“I believe in a business and government partnership. That’s how I’ve spent my entire business career; working with the government – including six Mayors and five Governors. I have a background working with people of different backgrounds and different opinions. We work to solve common solutions. It is up to the citizens to make sure that we don’t depend on government for our solutions.”

Adams:
“Again, I’ll tell you how we can do this – not just that we need to do this.

“City government seems to be embroiled in an ongoing budgeting process. It’s never ending. I recommend we go to a two-year budget cycle. In one year we will do the budgeting. On the off year, we’ll dig in and look for efficiencies in government.

“Talking about public safety, I think efficiencies are out there for the taking. We do not have enough resources for public safety. I agree with the spirit behind the question of seeking a public safety bond measure.

“When you look in the city and the county budgets, and add up all the money for jails, law enforcement, and crime prevention, the City and the County spend about half a billion dollars. But we spend it in our own ‘little boxes’, never really talking to each other. And as result, there are gaps, overlaps, and missed opportunities to reduce the ministry to costs.

“You don’t want us to reduce services. You want us to become more efficient, administratively. I will sit down with [Multnomah County] Chair Ted Wheeler; we’ll put all of our money on the table, and build a system that makes sense for public safety. It makes no system for the city government to pay for new 50 police officers – if the people we catch are released five minutes after the police bring them in.

“If you take the time, and spend the [off-budgeting] year bringing in smart folks, who are experts in their area, you can dig in deep and get efficiencies in every area of government.

“The other thing is that I’ve worked hard on is coming up with performance measures in both the Transportation and Bureau of Environmental Services.

“As professionals and business owners, you know that your business plan should be more than, ‘Let’s make money today’. If that’s your business plan, you probably won’t be in business for long. You have the right to know what we’re going to do with your money, and on what timeline. That’s what you’ll get from me if I’m elected Mayor.”

Q To the question of whether or not more development emphasis should be focused on East Portland instead of downtown, both candidates agreed.

Answers

Dozono:
“The amount of money we put into economic development is paltry. That is the future of our economy. We need to be looking for opportunities in all parts of the City of Portland. We need to be inviting businesses from other parts of the country and other parts of the world. We’re in a competitive global marketplace.

“Having Gresham companies move to Portland doesn’t grow our economy. In our region and in our state, we need to be competitive in the global marketplace, that’s my background. I will help grow our economy.”

Adams:
“As a person who’s been working with many of you in East Portland to help keep the businesses we have here and attract more, I can tell you, City government has ignored East Portland for too long.

“You are used to seeing a parade of candidates that come around during every election cycle and tell you how they’re into being different. They tell you how they’ll make a difference dealing with your issues in your problems. They tell you they’ll actually fight for what other people call ‘pet projects’ for East Portland.

“But with my candidacy I humbly submit that not only did I say that I would be here working with you when I ran for city Council, I worked hard to deliver on it.”

Get involved
Take a few minutes and learn more about these mayoral candidates.

For more information about Sho Dozono, CLICK HERE.

For more information about Sam Adams, CLICK HERE.

Meet the candidates in Gateway on April 10
At 11:30 a.m., Gateway Area Business Association is hosting a Mayoral Candidate’s Forum. The meeting is free; you only pay for your lunch. It’s at JJ North’s Buffet, 10520 NE Halsey St. Reservations NOT needed. For more information, go to www.gabanet.com.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Regardless whom you may support in the upcoming presidential election – seeing an internationally-known personality up-close created an entertaining event …

Alta Gaylord of the Portland Police Bureau, East Precinct Commander Michael Crebs, and Jacqueline Johnson talk about community issues, while awaiting the arrival of President Bill Clinton.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Even though lunch isn’t served at the Cherry Blossom Loaves & Fishes Center until noon, by 10:00 am hundreds of hopeful diners were already crowded into the East Portland Community Center’s long hallway on Monday, March 31.

Many of those cued up said they were puzzled by the waiting line. “I usually come here on Mondays for lunch here,” said Mildred Frankel. “I’m surprised by the all the people; I didn’t know that [President] Clinton was coming here today.”

Regulars get priority seating
Hillary Clinton for President campaign workers were at the head of that line, screening media personnel and guests. Center volunteers, stationed at the entrance of the dining room, did their best to make sure their regular clients got a seat for lunch; visitors were put on a waiting list.

“In addition to our regular clients,” explained Bennett Bailey, Cherry Blossom’s manager, “we worked to accommodate a large number of guests. Some of them were invited by Hillary’s campaign staff.”

Typically, Bailey said, they serve 120 clients on an average Monday. “But today, we served 202. We had to turn away quite a few guests for the safety of our clients. They come first.”

Lunch waits for no one
By 10:45 am the dining room was filled, as those seated waited for President Clinton’s scheduled 11:00 am arrival.

“I think it’s great,” commented Alta Gaylord, as she waited for lunch. “It’s time – or maybe a little past time – that a political candidate takes us seriously. People in our age group vote. Therefore, why not come and talk to the older people?”

When the kitchen was notified that Clinton would be delayed, the center’s volunteers and workers began lunch service just before noon.

Former Oregon Governor Barbara Roberts attempts to rally the crowd before former President Bill Clinton arrives.

Barbara Roberts’ warm-up
After the roasted turkey main course was served, and when most diners had finished their meal, there was stir of activity as former Oregon Governor Barbara Roberts walked to the podium on the east end of the room.

Roberts gave the warm-up speech and filled time as President Clinton traveled from a meeting with Democratic Party “super-delegates”.

“I’ve campaigned all over the state,” Roberts began, extolling the virtues of her chosen presidential candidate hopeful. “I know what it is like to be on a campaign. Hillary Clinton has demonstrated in her political campaigns it takes determination; it takes perseverance.”

Roberts wound down her speech when two Secret Service agents entered the room – followed by former President Bill Clinton.

Flashing his trademark smile, former President Bill Clinton arrives at his only East Portland campaign stop.

Bill pitches for Hillary
Wasting no time, Clinton dove into his stump speech: “I’m here campaigning on behalf of my wife, Senator Hillary Clinton. I am hoping you’ll vote for her. I hope you’ll vote for her for several reasons.”

Clinton wastes no time asking attendees to vote for Hillary Clinton.

Clinton said that his wife has a record of supporting health care and senior citizen issues. Drawing applause was his statement, “Supporting the senior centers, supporting the integrity of Social Security, supporting the idea that we should constantly work to improve the quality of life and health care of our citizens who cannot.”

During his presentation, Clinton weaves in his wife’s campaign slogans.

From our vantage point in the back of the room, we watched the diners’ responses to the President’s comments. The majority of those present appeared simply to be politely interested; a few appeared to be enthusiastic Hillary Clinton supporters.

The former President used each of Hillary Clinton’s campaign slogans, artfully woven into his remarks, during his 14-minute stump speech.

The Cherry Blossom Center served 202 meals on this occasion – a capacity crowd – up from their typical seating of noontime 120 diners.

Clinton meets and greets
Instead of being whisked away at the end of his talk, Clinton lingered to shake hands, sign autographs, and talk with citizens for twenty minutes following his formal presentation.

Members of the press were sternly advised to say inside their fenced-off “corral” at the far end of the room. However, within minutes, President Clinton was facing half-dozen TV cameras, answering questions posed by local television reporters, as the crowd pressed in.

After his talk, Bill Clinton meets and greets attendees, before being mobbed by TV reporters and cameras.

During and after Clinton’s talk, campaign workers refused to allow diners to exit the room, citing security issues.

“I feel like were used as ‘extras’ on a movie set to help promote Hillary’s campaign,” groused Jack, who declined to give his last name. “We had two choices: Participate, or skip lunch today. Now, they won’t let us out of the room to use the bathroom until Clinton leaves.”

However, many of those who came to dine said the inconvenience caused by Clinton’s visit was balanced by the thrill of seeing an international figure come to speak – even if only to make a campaign talk. The best part, they said: Meeting Bill Clinton in person.

Good publicity for Cherry Blossom
From his standpoint, Bailey said the event went well for the staff and volunteers at the Cherry Blossom Loaves and Fishes Center. “In addition to the dining room, we also prepared 250 lunches for Meals on Wheels clients.”

He added, “I hope the publicity will attract volunteers who will help deliver meals. We’ve had a 20% growth in Meals on Wheels clients this year. We are in big need of drivers.”

If you have a couple hours a day, a couple of days a week, consider being a volunteer driver. Call (503) 256-2381 or e-mail bbailey@lfcpdx.org to get involved!

Behind the scenes

Having been in the “media pen” for over two hours, some members of the press grow restless (including us!).

When we arrived, we were asked to sign in and given a colorful press credential that we were asked to keep visible at all times.

Members of the press were relegated to a 9-foot-deep section along the far end of the room. We were separated from the diners by a large heavy steel barrier fence, but members of the press corps were polite and amiable, ducking and dodging to allow one another to take photos and record information in the small, crowded space.

Because he arrived after noon, several TV stations simultaneously take their “live shot”, breaking into their noon news program when Clinton arrives.

About a half-hour before President Clinton arrived, the media supervisor for the “Hillary Clinton for President Campaign” laid down strict rules: “You must stay behind the fence at all times. You may not leave at any time during the President’s visit for any reason. You must stay behind the fence after his talk, when he’ll be shaking hands with people in the front of the room.”

Amazingly, the campaign supervisor also requested that we send what we are going to write about this event to “the campaign office”. This is almost never done, or requested, in news gathering.

From the length of more than half a football field away, reporters and photographers record the occasion of a presidential visit.

It was wryly comical to watch as several people attempted to leave the dining room – either use the restroom or to go home – only to be briskly rebuffed at the exit doors by campaign workers. Not to be denied, a group of seniors walked briskly across the room to doors leading to the Community Center’s patio and made a successful escape. We followed them!

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News Service

Political hopefuls – and elected officials – wonder why East Portlanders keep asking what they’ll do to curb gang violence. This incident was no April Fools joke; it’s another sad example …

Police say no one was injured, and they couldn’t find any property damage, after a shooting was reported outside this theater.

Story and photo by David F. Ashton
The calls that started coming in on April 1 about a shooting at the theater in Eastport Plaza weren’t an April Fools gag. It was, instead, another example of escalating gang violence in outer East Portland.

“The shooting occurred about 8:00 p.m.,” confirmed Portland Police Bureau spokesperson Officer Catherine Kent.

Based on information she learned from responding members of the Gang Violence Reduction Team, “Two subjects were confronting an alleged rival gang member who was armed with a gun.”

That’s when the gunshots rang out. “Shots were fired. The shooter ran inside the cinema and exited. The gun was recovered. No one was injured.”

Two possible Hispanic gang members were detained when they were observed running from the area with baseball bats, Kent told us. Eventually, the two subjects were released and not charged.

“There is no suspect information at this time,” added Kent. “The investigation is continuing.”

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

See what transportation planners say they can do to ease slow-moving traffic around Airport Way and I-205 – and when they plan to take action …

Matt Freitag, ODOT consultant, and Port of Portland project manager Robin McCaffrey ask people to tell them how they’re affected by congested traffic around PDX.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Matt Freitag, Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) consultant and project manager, didn’t mince words when he began our conversation: “There is congestion at the Airport Way/I-205 interchange. We’re looking for ways to alleviate it on both the Airport Way East and Airport Way West.”

Primarily, he added, ODOT, with the help of the Port of Portland, is looking for a way to speed up sluggish traffic traveling from eastbound Airport Way to northbound Interstate 205.

Handles 200,000 cars per day
Congestion at this interchange has been a problem since 1998, we learned; and east- and westbound traffic issues on Airport Way have been documented since 2000. The documentation shows that the Airport Way interchange is used by nearly 200,000 vehicles daily.

At an open house a couple of weeks ago, Freitag added, “We were trying to get some information out on what citizens see as a congestion issues, and get suggestions regarding what they perceive are the issues we should be looking at.”

Robin McCaffrey, Port of Portland, also working on the project, commented, “The I-205 north interchange design cannot handle today’s peak-hour traffic, much less tomorrow’s [increased] traffic.”

Smooth sailing a long time off
McCaffrey explained that they are in the early stages of the project. “We’re developing information, and getting all of our alternatives lined up.”

The timetable for improvements won’t be complete until 2014, noted Freitag. “In 2009 we’re hoping to move into a more in-depth analysis of specific solutions and alternatives. We want to be moving into design by 2010. We need to find a solution that works here, we don’t want to rush into it.”

Ross Monn talks with Scott King, a Port of Portland airport planner.

Wilkes Community Group Chair Ross Monn stopped by the open house. He commented, “You don’t go into this area after four o’clock. The traffic is clogged. . .  I look forward to something being done to help improve the situation here.”

Deposit your two-cents
“We’re in the early stage of this,” McCaffrey noted. “There will be many opportunities for people to give input; we encourage people to participate.”

To take a look for yourself, and register your comments, at the ODOT web site. We’ll take you there if you CLICK HERE.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News Service

“HOUSE RECYCLING” PROGRESS REPORT:
Learn what surprisingly new information ‘Ms. Q-Renew’ has discovered – and is passing along – as she attempts to recycle every piece of an old SE Portland old house into a new one …

Sitting on a bench made entirely from hawthorn tree branches and siding removed from the old house, Shannon Quimby told us she’s glad an artist found a use for these items that most redevelopers would toss into a landfill.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
If Shannon Quimby has her way, the house she’s building at 2022 SE Rex Street in the Westmorland neighborhood won’t have a dumpster on the construction site. “If we have one, it won’t be very large,” she says.

As we’ve been reporting, instead of bulldozing the old house on the property, Quimby’s team dismantled the building, piece by piece, and has stored it in two large containers. Last month, they carefully moved mature trees – instead of cutting them down – to make way for the new home.

Quimby, who hosts “Q-Renew” shows on the Home & Garden TV Network, calls her project “REX” – for Reuse Everything eXperiment. “We’re recycling an old house into a new one, to show it is possible, and practical, to save building materials, instead of dumping them into a landfill.”

In front of the newly-poured foundation, Quimby reminds us that the massive holly tree they removed is being milled into open beams that will grace the house. “But we didn’t know what to do with the branches until an artist, Tim Boyden contacted us. He specializes in making garden furniture from reclaimed materials. He’s making benches, and trellises and tables for the project from our tree branches, old siding and floorboards.”

Quimby says this thin layer of concrete will keep the home warm and dry – and save $1,000 per year in energy costs.

Energy savings from the ground, up
We noted that the crawl space in the new home looked like a shallow basement.

“It’s called a conditioned crawl space,” Quimby states. “I don’t know why this isn’t a standard building practice. Over plastic sheeting, we poured a thin layer of concrete, and seal it where it joins the foundation.”

In addition to eliminating the possibility of mold, mildew and dry rot, Quimby adds, “The $1,000 it cost will cut our energy usage and bills by that amount every year! And, it will give us additional under-house storage space.”

Quimby invites neighbors to drop by and follow their progress as their project continues. Learn more by visiting www.shannonquimby.com.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Why are they doing that, and which was the featured instrument when we visited Midland Library? Find out right here …

Oregon Symphony member Jeff Johnson talks about being a string bass player, and demonstrates the instrument for the children at Midland Library.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
There’s almost always something interesting happening at Midland Library, in the Mill Park neighborhood on SE 122nd Avenue.

On a rainy Saturday, early in March, we went to see Symphony Story Time, to learn about the program.

“This is for preschool age children and their families,” explained Monica Hayes of the Oregon Symphony. “It is important for young children to meet members of the orchestra family. Also we pair literature about music with music itself, so they get the most out of the experience.”

On successive Saturdays, the Oregon Symphony featured woodwinds…brass…and then percussion, in the library presentations.

When we visited, we met Jeff Johnson, a 16-year veteran of the Symphony. He was tuning up his string bass, getting ready to talk with the children.

“It’s important to get out into the community and reach audiences of varying sizes and ages that wouldn’t normally be exposed to this music,” said Johnson. “We don’t want to have our musical life restricted to the concert hall.”

The best part about playing a string bass, Johnson tells us, is that the musical parts they play form the “foundation of the orchestra. Being at the ‘bottom of the orchestra’, we have a chance to listen to the rest of the orchestra as it plays.”

The bass line, Johnson continues, is the foundation of all music. “Perhaps not so much in modern music, but certainly in jazz and standards. That’s another thing I like about the instrument; it’s so versatile. I’ve played many different types of music at one time or another.”

Midland Library children’s librarian Sue Ciesielski reads the story of “Berlioz The Bear”, as Johnson illustrates passages musically on his bass.

The bass and the bear
After the youngsters are seated, Johnson tells them about his life and times as a professional musician.

“When I was very young, I wasn’t tall enough to play the string bass.  My mother had me stand on a chair to be able to play the instrument. I’ll show you how I play it, and let you touch the instrument. Before we do that, my friend Sue and I are going to read some stories, and I’ll play along and supply some sounds to go with the story.”

The kids eagerly agree when he asks the question, “Does this sound like a good thing to do?”

With that, Sue Ciesielski, children’s librarian at Midland, opens and starts reading the storybook, “Berlioz The Bear”.

Johnson comments, “this has always been one of my favorite books, ever since I can remember.  Can you imagine why?”

As Ciesielski reads, Johnson musically illustrates the story on his bass, to the delight of the kids. The children look enraptured as the librarian and musician gently guide the next generation into the land of symphonic music.

After storytime, brother and sister, Matthew and Ruth Benzar, help the little kids make “shoebox violins”. “These show and demonstrate the structure of a violin,” says Matthew.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News Service

In exchange for learning about law enforcement, see the many ways these young people help build the community …

Portland Police Bureau East Precinct Cadets Nathan Huff and Ryan Mele tell community members about their experiences, at a Commander’s Forum not long ago.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Regular readers have read our coverage of the Portland Police Bureau East Precinct Cadets, and the good work they do in the community.

At a recent Commander’s Forum – a meeting held each month by East Precinct Commander Michael Crebs – a roomful of community members were introduced to the Police Cadets and their work, by their main sponsor, Sgt. Michael Gallagher.

East Precinct’s Sgt. Michael Gallagher tells how the Police Cadet program helps young people prepare for a law enforcement career.

On-scene career training
“The Police Cadet Program helps introduce young people, between the ages of 16 and 20, to a law enforcement career,” began Sgt. Michael Gallagher, the leader of East Precinct’s program.

“The program includes classroom instruction, hands-on training, and mentorship,” Gallagher continued. “When Cadets complete the program, we encourage them to apply to the Portland Police Reserve, and when they’re eligible, with the Portland Police Bureau.”

Giving Cadets an understanding of the criminal justice system, and of the professional ethics applied to law enforcement, are the goals of the program, he added – as well as helping them understand of Oregon laws.

Wide variety of assignments
The program doesn’t relegate the Cadets to backroom clean-up chores, Gallagher said. “Police Cadets work many details and assignments in uniform, and are involved in the following areas of community events and services…”

Although Police Cadets have no police powers, they do provide valuable service to their community while they learn about police work.

On patrol, Cadets do vacation house checks, traffic speed watches, and help out by directing traffic around road hazards, traffic accidents, and crime scenes.

Helping out at the Portland Police Bureau Sunshine Division’s “Holiday Deliveries” is one of the many missions for the Police Cadets. Most Cadets volunteer about 90 hours of service monthly.

Police Cadets help maintain order when the LPGA Golf Tournament comes to Portland, assist in loading and delivering Portland Police Bureau Sunshine Division boxes, and help out at community fairs – like the East Precinct Annual Open House, and the Gateway Fun-O-Rama Parade and Gateway Community Fair at 111th Square. Typically, the Gallagher said, Police Cadets volunteer about 90 hours per month for service and community activities.

“An important activity for our Cadets is ‘Underage Alcohol and Tobacco Missions’,” Gallagher reported. “They go into stores, bars, and restaurants, and attempt to buy alcohol. If they’re asked, the Cadets never lie about their age; they show their real driver’s license. Doing this, we help the OLCC cut down on alcohol sales to minors.”

Cadets undergo formal training
Each post has training every week, Gallagher went on. “They are taught how to protect themselves in hand-to-hand situations. And, at our firing range downtown, they learn to shoot various firearms, and are taught firearms safety by the range instructors.”

In addition, Police Cadets learn:

• Community Policing philosophy;
• Ethics and decision-making;
• Cultural awareness;
• Driving techniques;
• Crime scene control;
• Report writing;
• Oregon laws; and,
• CPR/First Aid

Sgt. Gallagher narrates videos of past Police Cadet training exercises, and tells about the extensive training program developed for these young people.

Beyond classrooms and schoolbooks
Not all Police Cadet training takes place in the classroom or during a patrol car ride-along. “They learned how to search a house,” said Gallagher. “And how to execute a search warrant. From a field trip to the Police Academy in Salem, to Camp Rilea on the Coast, the cadets get a wide variety of training.”

But it isn’t t all work. They also have softball games, and participate in other fun events, Gallaher added.

‘Clean noses’ a requirement
“We hold the Cadets to a higher standard of conduct,” Gallagher explained, as he turned to the topic of membership requirements. “It’s just as we do for our police officers. For example, they can’t be where underage alcohol is being used, or get traffic tickets.”

Specifically, Portland Cadet recruits:

• Maintain a “C” grade point average with no failures in high school;
• Have no arrests or convictions which would prohibit employment as a police officer; and,
• Are a U.S. citizen, or have a valid green card.

If you know of a young person who would benefit from this program, he or she can get more information by talking with Portland Police Cadet Officers in East Precinct at (503) 823-4836.

And, if you know of a young person in Inner Southeast who would benefit from this program, they can get more information by talking with Portland Police Cadet Officers in SE Precinct at (503) 823-2143. Sgt. Charlie Brown, or Officers Sue Kahut or Tom Kaplan will be happy to tell you more.

Or, download the application form by CLICKING HERE.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News Service

Meet these schools’ ambassadors to the 2008 Portland Rose Festival. Will one of these ladies become the Portland Rose Festival Queen? Take a look …

Standing with her court, Brenda Estela Olmos has just learned she will represent David Douglas High School at the 2008 Portland Rose Festival.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton

David Douglas High Princess
It is always an invigorating experience to visit “full-school assembly” at David Douglas High School. The student body is well behaved; but when it’s time to cheer, the nearly 3,000 students nearly lift the roof of the gymnasium.

Last week, when we visited the assembly at which the David Douglas High 2008 Portland Rose Festival Princess was announced – it was an occasion to cheer.

Almost overtaken by emotion, Olmos does her best to smile, as she’s presented with a bouquet of roses.

After the announcement, Olmos told the enthusiastic crowd, “I thank my family for being there, for all the good times and the bad times. Thank you for this honor.”

Olmos said she’s been involved with Student Council, National Honors Society, Link Crew, Peer Mediation, Key Club, Academic All-Stars, MECHA, and Varsity Soccer.

Her other activities including working at a Subway store, volunteering at Mill Park Elementary as a tutor, playing in the River Park Soccer League, and participating in American Friends Service Committee and youth group. Her hobbies are playing soccer, coaching basketball and soccer, gardening, and listening to Mexican music.

After the selection, Principal Randy Hutchison commented, “This is a great opportunity for our kids.  It’s nice to see how many showed up for the competition. Any one of the students would’ve been a great selection, and we’re proud of them all. Brenda will make a great ambassador for David Douglas High School.”

After the gym cleared, Olmos told us, “I’m really excited. I thank all of my peers who supported me. I look forward to representing my school and meeting many people in the Portland Rose Festival program.”

Madison High Princess

Introducing Madison High School’s 2008 Portland Rose Festival Princess, Jill Tremblay. PRF Photo

Last week Madison High School also held their 2008 Portland Rose Festival Princess selection assembly.

The outcome: Representing Madison will be Jill Tremblay.

In the future, Tremblay said she plans to enroll in Portland State University’s Pre-Dental program, and later attend Oregon State University.

She’s been recognized for her participation in the Academy of Science & Natural Resources, Class Council, Track (hurdles and pole vaulting), and Cheerleading.

The other activities Tremblay said she enjoys are Art (drawing and painting), snowboarding, exercising, and Cosmology. She is involved with the Ascension Church Youth Group, and volunteers at Providence Children’s Hospital.

Marshall Campus’ Princess

The students at Marshall Campus selected Kim Pham as their 2008 Portland Rose Festival Princess. PRF Photo

And, during the same week, the four schools at Marshall Campus selected their 2008 Portland Rose Festival ambassador.

From the Pauling Academy of Integrated Science at Marshall Campus, Kim Pham won the title.

Asked about her plans, Pham said, “This fall, I plan to attend the University of Puget Sound in Tacoma, Washington. I’m not quite sure what I’ll be studying, but I’ve been contemplating Pre-Med for a very long time, so that might be it.”

Pham said she likes being active, and participates in tennis, soccer, National Honor Society, Music Club, and the school’s 2008 Yearbook – of which she’s the chief editor.

“I’ve done a lot of volunteering for Hands On Portland, and other projects,” Pham told us, “including cooking at Clark Center, Multnomah Summer Reading Program, serving seniors for Loaves and Fishes, playing the Easter Bunny for Easter Seals, and volunteering for Providence Center for Medically Fragile Children.”

Her hobbies include cooking, baking, riding bikes, going to concerts, playing guitar, writing poetry, drawing, and being in the outdoors.

Coronation on June 7
The 2008 Portland Rose Festival Queen’s Coronation takes place on June 7, just before the start of the Grand Floral Parade. For tickets, or more information, see CLICK HERE and we’ll take you directly to their web site. Or, call their hotline: 1-877-789-ROSE.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Take a look and see how this inner SE Portland dance school is training young people who will be competing in the upcoming International Irish Step Dancing competition …

Four An Daire Academy students show off their Irish Step Dancing skill – which may take them to the international competition.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Behind the An Daire Academy of Irish Dance, hidden away in an industrial area of inner SE Portland, is a story of passion, romance, dedication – and Irish Step Dancing.

The international show theatrical production “Riverdance” popularized traditional Irish Step Dancing, in which dancers take rapid and sometimes acrobatic steps, while their torsos and arms remain motionless.

But the proprietors of this unique Portland-based dance school, Jim Mueller and Lauren Crowe-Mueller, started perfecting their dancing technique long before Riverdance-styled shows became all the rage.

Owners of the dance academy, Jim Mueller and Lauren Crowe-Mueller, tell how the love of Irish dance brought them together both in love and in business at an East Portland Chamber of Commerce networking event.

Portland natives, but strangers
Both members of this husband-and-wife team grew up in Portland and attended rival high schools – but in those days, they never met.

At an East Portland Chamber of Commerce function in March, Jim told the group he learned his first Irish steps as a postgraduate hobby, took to dancing, and started instructing.

A 1988 Portland Rose Festival Princess, Lauren studied nursing and musical theater, before moving to Nashville, Tennessee, where she took up Irish dance. She progressed, finally dancing with The Chieftains, and performing at renaissance festivals throughout the United States.

“We met in a class taught by Tony Comerford in Seattle,” Lauren said; “We became engaged at his Feile na Nollaig (Irish dance event) in December of 1999, and were married in our hard [dance] shoes in May of 2000.”

Jim added, “Thanks to the Comerford School, we became successful open champions, competing at the North American, All-Ireland, and World Championships, in both solos and teams.”

Opens studio in Portland
Under Comerford’s direction, the Muellers opened a dance studio in Portland in 2000.

“In 2005, Tony said we were ready to, and able to, operate our own school; and, with his blessing, in 2005 we opened the An Daire Academy of Irish Dance,” explained Lauren.

She informed us that instructors must be certified in Irish dance if their students are to compete. “The examination process was difficult, but we were both certified before we opened our school.”

Wee dancers Kate, Emilie, and Kendal admirably perform a “Three-hand Reel”.

Armless dancing explained
“Why don’t you use their arms when you dance?” is the question they’re most frequently asked, Jim said.

“It started with the church movement in Ireland,” he related. “When St. Patrick brought Christianity to Ireland, the church was very tied into the state. As the British came into the Emerald Isle, their magistrates tried to suppress the Irish; getting them to submit to their will.”

Because the Irish are such a celebratory people, he continued, they tried to break their spirit by decreeing that dancing was an offence to God. “The Irish learned to dance with her hands at their sides. So, if a church magistrate walked past the window, appeared as if they were listening to music and having a good time.”

It wasn’t long until competitions arose to see who could dance the best steps – with their arms at their sides.

These fast-stepping An Daire dancers demonstrate the speed, precision, and skill required to enter and win Irish Step Dancing competitions.

Workout on the dance floor
It’s only been within the last decade that the Irish dance form has come on par with jazz and ballet, Jim mentioned. “Irish dance technique is very young. Over in Ireland, it’s still ‘Shut up, put your shoes on, and dance’.”

Lauren explained that they realized, early on, that poor technique will limit the life of a dancer, due to injuries. “We want to help dancers enjoy a lifetime of dance, without injury. So, we’ve created special warm-up exercises and strength training, based on the ballet and jazz. It’s a great workout.”

This top ranked Irish Step Dancer, Allie Lewis, traveled to Ireland in March, to enter in the 2008 dance competition.

Dancing for fun, and prizes
“This year has been especially wonderful,” Lauren beamed, “because not only do we have dancers going for solo competitions, we also have three teams of dancers going to the 2008 international competition in Ireland.”

Jim added, “We’ve got our fingers crossed; we’re hoping we can get a team on the [winners] podium in Belfast.”

Wide variety of skills taught
Visiting their studio, we learned they also teach Highland dance, and offer music lessons on Celtic and medieval eclectic instruments as well.

“We do a lot of fun things here at the studio,” Lauren concluded. “All told, we have just shy of 300 dancers throughout the Northwest. If you know anyone who wants this type of musical education, please tell them about us.”

This dance troupe appeared more than a dozen times at various St. Patrick Day observances around the greater Portland area this year.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News Service

Just in time for Easter, see (in LOTS of photos) how two SE Portland neighborhood groups bring their communities together with traditional Easter Egg Hunts …

Kaitlin and Jack Nelson get a real “two carrot” treat from the Easter Bunny at Westmoreland’s Easter Egg Hunt.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
There’s no better sign that springtime has arrived than seeing hundreds of kids in two neighborhoods running – baskets in hand – at the start of annual Easter Egg hunts on March 22.

Waiting as patiently as possible, families wait for the “tiny tots” section to be opened for the big Sellwood-Westmoreland hunt.

Sellwood-Westmoreland’s Easter Egg Hunt
It was promoted as “come rain-or-shine”, and the brilliant sunshine drew hundreds of families to this annual event.

The event was free, but many folks brought canned goods for the FISH Food Bank, some gave cash donations.

In minutes, hundreds of kids get about the business of gathering their eggs.

Phoebe Diamond has great success finding chocolate eggs.

“We love helping SMILE put on this event,” said Edwina Swart, President of Oaks Bottom Lions Club. “It’s just great; the kids are having lots of fun.”

At 10 a.m. sharp, the ribbons cordoning off areas in the southern part of Westmoreland Park were lifted and the kids took off on their hunt. Actually, the colorfully foil-wrapped milk-chocolate were plentiful – making the kids’ mission more “gathering” than “searching”.

Leasa Wiebke appears to enjoy the Westmoreland Easter Egg Hunt as much as her daughter, Julia!

Because three football field-sized areas were swept clean of candies in minutes, the organizers made sure no one went home empty handed. They thoughtfully withheld a small bucket of treats for those too timid to grab their share.

10th Annual Woodstock Easter Egg Hunt

Some of the more than 200 kids at Woodstock Park await the start of their Easter Egg Hunt for some 1,700 candy-and-prize filled plastic eggs.

We had just enough time to head east to this event, now in its tenth year.

Set more as a “hunt”, families and kids gathered in the central portion of Woodstock Park. Tom Vice counted down the minutes, and at precisely 10:30 a.m., kids fanned out in three searching areas, each assigned to an age group.

“Ready, set go!” says Tom Vice. The kids didn’t need to be egged on.

Gale and Michael Budde tag along as Jill sets off to find her eggs.

At their event, the kids searched for plastic eggs containing candy, a toy, or a coupon good for a larger toy or sheet of stickers. See how many folks had come out on the sunny morning, organizers asked that each kid take only five eggs – most everyone complied and shared – so all were satisfied.

The “man with the megaphone”, Tom Vice, said the event was hosted by the Woodstock Business Association, and sponsored by Safeway, BiMart, The UPS Store, Papa Murphy’s, Hollywood Video, and Life House Church.

With a little help from mom and dad, Amy and Jeff Loney, Lucy quickly collected her Easter eggs.

“We prepared 1,700 Easter Eggs,” Vice recounted. “They were all gathered in about seven minutes. It’s incredible to see the great energy here. We easily have over 200 children participating.”

Jill Budde is exploring the contents of her newly-found Easter eggs as her parents, Gail and Michael look on.

Darren Almli and his little bunny-girl Shayla wait to redeem their tickets for prizes.

While their event features candy and prizes, Vice said, “The important thing is this event brings families, who live in the Woodstock area, together. We’re focusing on finding ways to help build community, and the best way is events like this that brings people together. Look around! So many people are here having a great time!”

Elise Nettle getting her treats directly from the Woodstock Easter Bunny.

© 2008 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News Service