Vol. 25, No. 3 • Mailed monthly to over 13,500 homes in the Gateway & Parkrose Communities Free • July 2009
MEMO BLOG Memo Calendar Memo Pad Business Memos Loaves & Fishes Letters Home
FEATURE ARTICLES
Sewing experience comes full circle
Neighborhood doyenne leads overthrow
Mel Morasch: Timberwolf starts meat company
Perlman's Potpourri:
Design review gets its say in how Gateway’s future looks
Lounge opens with new attitude, food
Longtime Argay resident Joseph Colasuonno succumbs
Advocates push for east Portland streetcar routes
PBA Cruise-in: judge thyselves

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Memo Calendar (cont'd)

Win a red 2009 Ford Mustang
The Russellville Kiwanis Club is selling raffle tickets for a red 2009 Ford Mustang with a V6 Pony Package and a five-speed automatic transmission with overdrive. Tickets are $5 each or 5 for $20. The drawing will be held at the Oregon State Fair on Labor Day. You need not be present to win.

All proceeds of this annual fundraiser will go to the Kiwanis Children’s Cancer Research Program at Doernbecher Hospital. Purchase tickets by calling Jason Zwick at 503-287-6122, or Charlie Ross at 503-252-1570 or get them from any Kiwanian in the area.

The Russellville Kiwanis Club meets every Tuesday from 11:45 a.m. to 1 p.m. at The Refectory Restaurant, 1618 N.E. 122nd Ave. You are invited to drop in to consider joining the club. It supports a variety of helping agencies in the area, including Shepherd’s Door Shelter, Ronald McDonald House, SnowCap Community Charities, DayBreak Family Shelter, Parkrose Little League, Mt. Hood Kiwanis Camp for disabled children and, of course, Doernbecher Hospital Children’s Cancer Research Program.

Stop by some Tuesday; they’ll even buy your lunch on that first visit.

CHURCHES
Neighborhood rummage sale and flea market
Cherry Park United Methodist Church, Southeast 106th Avenue and Market Street, will host a Neighborhood Rummage Sale & Flea Market on Friday and Saturday, July 17 and 18 from 9 a.m. until 4:30 p.m.

Vendor space is still available. A 15’ x 15’ space will cost you $20; you supply tables. Sort through your basement, garage and closets for items you no longer use. Someone out there wants them. Contact Gary Richardson at 503-698-3381 by July 6 to reserve space.

Bargain hunters should plan to arrive early for the best selection.

Music on a summer’s eve
You are invited to the second annual Concert on the Lawn presented by Cherry Park United Methodist Church, 1736 S.E. 106th Ave., on Saturday, Aug. 1 from 6 to 8 p.m.; Shamrock in the Wind will perform. Please bring a lawn chair or blanket for your comfort and a can of food for SnowCap Community Charities.

EVENTS
An intro to Hmong food and culture
Authors Sheng Yang, left, and Sami Scripter will be at Midland Library on Saturday, July 11 to talk about writing “Cooking from the Heart: The Hmong Kitchen in America.” Hmong musicians and dancers will be on hand as well.
COURTESY MINNESOTA UNIVERSITY PRESS
Portland author Sami Scripter and her co-author Sheng Yang will be at Midland Library, 805 S.E. 122nd Ave., on Saturday, July 11 from 4 to 6 p.m. to discuss their book, “Cooking from the Heart: The Hmong Kitchen in America.”

The book relates Yang’s arrival in the U.S. and tells how the two women met as neighbors and formed a lasting friendship. The authors painstakingly convert traditional Hmong recipes to American weights and measures while explaining the roles various foods take in Hmong culture and traditions.

The event at Midland will include Hmong music, dance and food. It will serve as a great introduction to the culture for those of us who are unfamiliar and will remind Hmong people now living in Portland of home.

This is a free event. Books will be available for purchase.

Explore Mt. Tabor Park
In commemoration of the 100-year anniversary of Mt. Tabor Park, the East County Wind Walkers and Portland Parks & Recreation will host a 10K walk on Saturday, Aug. 1. Start times are from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., and walkers must finish by 4 p.m. The route is on pavement and well-maintained park trails. There are uphill portions on mostly gradual inclines and a few stairs. The walk includes reservoirs and the top loop as well as the Montavilla neighborhood.

To learn more, contact Janet Winner, event coordinator, at 503-254-3252 or visit www.eastcountywindwalkers.org.

Worms and kids
GrowingGardens, a Portland nonprofit, gets at the root of hunger by organizing volunteers to build organic, raised-bed vegetable gardens; supports low-income households with seeds, plants and classes; and reaches out to children through schools and workshops.

On Saturday, July 18, the group will offer a parent/child workshop from 10:30 a.m. until noon at Shaver Elementary, 2701 N.E. 131st Place, to teach the virtues of worms. Participants in this Wondrous Worms workshop will learn how red wigglers transform food scraps into fertilizer with hands-on activities, stories and more. Children ages 6 to 12 are invited to bring a parent and learn about these critters and about growing food in their own backyards.

GrowingGardens offers these workshops on a sliding scale fee of $5 to $20, but no one will be turned away.
To find out more, call 503-284-8420.

Paddler alert
Paddlers enjoy a day on the water during a previous Columbia Slough Small Craft Regatta.
The Columbia Slough Small Craft Regatta, the largest one-day paddle in Oregon, returns for its 15th anniversary on Sunday, July 26 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. This annual celebration of the Columbia Slough highlights recreation opportunities on this hidden gem of local waterways, and each year draws more than 500 participants for a morning of free paddling and fun.

This year's regatta launches from the St. Johns launch site at 9363 N. Columbia Blvd. Paddlers can travel west to the Ramsey Wetland Complex, home to bald eagles, great blue herons, river otters and juvenile salmon. On land, participants will have a rare opportunity to enjoy a guided tour of the closed and capped St Johns landfill. The former landfill is now a unique meadow habitat that is one of the only places in Portland that supports the western meadowlark, our state bird. Before and after paddling, participants can visit with local environmental and water-based organizations and enjoy hands-on nature activities. Free T-shirts and refreshments will be provided while supplies last.

"The Columbia Slough provides safe, slack water paddling that's appropriate for all skill levels," said Jane Van Dyke, executive director of the Columbia Slough Watershed Council, the nonprofit organization that hosts the regatta each year. "It's a wonderful opportunity for the community to get out on the water and enjoy nature in the city."

Complimentary 45-minute canoe and kayak rentals are available through the council, but advanced registration is required at www.columbiaslough.org or 503-956-8558. Life jackets and paddles are included. Participants with their own human-powered watercraft and safety equipment are welcome to come without reservations, and crews will be available to help unload and transport boats. A donation of $7 per person is requested to support Columbia Slough Watershed Council programs and events.

NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION MEETINGS
Montavilla Neighborhood Association meets every second Monday at Montavilla Community Center, Northeast Glisan Street and 82nd Avenue at 7 p.m. Check the calendar at www.montavilla.info/index.html for dates and information.

MNA will hold a neighborhood association meet and greet on Saturday, July 22 from 11 a.m. to noon at Coconut Café, Northeast 79th Avenue and Glisan Street. Board members will be present for informal conversation.

Parkrose Heights Association of Neighbors will have an open board meeting on Tuesday, July 21 at 7 p.m. at Parkrose United Methodist Church, 11111 N.E. Knott St. With the assistance of an Office of Neighborhood Involvement small grant, PHAN has a special Neighbor Night Out event planned for Tuesday, Aug. 4. Enjoy live music by the Insomniacs and the Eric Christopher Band, face painting, a clown, games and a hot dog dinner at Knott Park. Check the community bulletin boards in the information kiosks in the park for details.

LIBRARIES
Gregory Heights Library, 7921 N.E. Sandy Blvd., www.multcolib.org/agcy/grh.html, 503-988-5386

Space at programs is limited. Seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis, except as noted.

Tiny Tots: Storytime for children 12 to 24 months with adult. Mondays and Thursdays from 10:15 to 10:45 a.m.

Pajama Time: Put on your pajamas, grab a bedtime buddy, and join us for stories, songs and fun. For children 6 years and younger with adult. Wednesdays from 7 to 7:30 p.m.

Book Babies: Storytime for children newborn to 12 months with adult. Thursdays from 11:15 to 11:45 a.m.

Toddler Storytime: Storytime for children 24 to 36 months with adult. Fridays from 10:15 to 10:45 a.m., except July 3.

Preschool Storytime: Storytime for children 3 to 6 years with adult. Fridays from 11:15 to 11:45 a.m., except July 3.

Steve's Creature Feature: Explore the amazing world of reptiles with Steve. Friday, July 10 from 3 to 4 p.m.

Americana Music: Enjoy multiple genres of Americana music, from Appalachian to bluegrass, cowboy to the Kingston Trio, and many points in between with local artists the Stumptown Stars. The audience will sing and yodel. This show is a hoot and a holler. The group will even take song requests. Sunday, July 12 from 2 to 3 p.m.

Mother Goose on the Loose: Mother Goose doesn't believe anyone cares or knows her rhymes anymore so she has gone into hiding. The only way to get her back is to sing, play and reenact her favorite rhymes. Join the animated cast as they get creative to get Mother Goose to come back and play. Free tickets for seating will be available 30 minutes prior to the program. Monday, July 20 from 11 to 11:45 a.m.

Juggler Henrik Bothe: Performer Henrik Bothe amazes audiences with incredible juggling, chaotic plate spinning and other acrobatic feats. Friday, July 31 from 2 to 3 p.m.

Teen Lounge and Homework Center: Use library computers, get homework help, or just do your homework and listen to music. For teens in grades 6-12. Thursdays from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m., except July 9.

Teen Council: Meet new friends, learn new skills, help the library, eat snacks and have fun. Teen Council members work with library staff to make the library teen-friendly. Wednesday, July 8 from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.

Teen Lounge Unplugged -- Dance Dance Revolution: The second Thursday of the month is DDR Day. Anyone in grades 6-12 is invited to jump around like a fool to DDR. Or just hang out and eat snacks. Thursday, July 9 from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m.

Duct Tape Wallets: Make a duct tape wallet of your own and add creative components like a cool design to the front. All materials will be provided. For teens in grades 6-12. Thursday, July 16 from 4 to 5:30 p.m.

Language Exchange: Engage in conversation with native English speakers who want to practice their Spanish and with native Spanish speakers who want to practice their English. There will be time for conversation in both languages. Saturdays from 4 to 5:30 p.m., except July 4.

Pageturners Book Group: Read "Oryx and Crake: A Novel" by Margaret Atwood. Engage in stimulating conversation about books, exchange perspectives about characters and plot, and get to know your neighbors. Sponsored by the Friends of the Library. Tuesday, July 21 from 7 to 8 p.m.

Computer Lab: Lab assistants are available to help beginners practice their computer skills. Saturdays from 9 to 10 a.m., except July 4.

Midland Library, 805 S.E. 122nd Ave., www.multcolib.org/agcy/mid.html, 503-988-5392

Space at programs is limited. Seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis, except as noted.

Chinese Storytime: Storytime presented in Cantonese for children ages newborn to 6 years with adult. Sundays from 1:15 to 2 p.m.

Book Babies: Storytime for children newborn to 12 months with adult. Tuesdays from 10:15 to 11 a.m.

Pajama Time: Put on your pajamas and join librarians for stories, songs and fun. For children 6 years and younger with adult. Tuesdays from 7 to 7:30 p.m.

Tiny Tots: Storytime for children 12 to 24 months with adult. Wednesdays and Fridays from 10:15 to 11 a.m.
Toddler Storytime: Storytime for children 24 to 36 months with adult. Wednesdays and Fridays from 11:15 a.m. to noon.

Preschool Storytime: Storytime for children 3 to 6 years with adult. Thursdays from 10:15 to 11 a.m.

Vietnamese Storytime: Storytime presented in Vietnamese for children ages newborn to 6 with adult. Saturdays from 10:15 to 11 a.m., except July 4.

Yoga for Youngsters: This class introduces children to the benefits of yoga through stories, music and simple movements. For ages 3 to 6 years and their caregivers. One child per adult. You are encouraged to bring your own mat. Tuesdays from 11:15 a.m. to noon.

Yarn Club: Whether your interest is knitting or crocheting, come join the fun and learn together. All experience levels and ages welcome. Please bring your own supplies. Thursdays from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m.

There's a Dinosaur in the Back Yard: Join the delightful singer, songwriter and storyteller Courtney Campbell and make up fun stories and songs. Free tickets for seating will be available 30 minutes prior to the program. Wednesday, July 1 from 11 a.m. to noon

The Remus Lupins: This wizard-rock band plays tunes about The Boy Who Lived and his friends. With special guests, The Whomping Willows. Pottercast will do a live podcast during the concert. Free tickets for seating will be available 30 minutes prior to the program. Saturday, July 11 from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m.

Doctor Partz's Puppet Laboratory: The Mudeye Puppet Company presents a new puppet show and workshop. Free tickets for seating will be available 30 minutes prior to the program. Tuesday, July 21 from 3 to 4:15 p.m.

Live -- Bill Harley in Portland: A two-time Grammy award-winning artist, recipient of the Magic Penny Award from the Children's Music Network and an NPR commentator, Harley's songs and stories paint a vibrant and hilarious picture of growing up, schooling and family life. Free tickets for seating will be available 30 minutes prior to the program. Thursday, July 23 from 2 to 3 p.m.

Teen Council: Meet new friends, learn new skills, help the library, eat snacks and have fun. Wednesdays, July 1 and 15 from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m.

Mad Science -- Spin, Pop, Boom: Watch an assortment of exciting experiments. Free tickets for seating will be available 30 minutes prior to the program. Tuesday, July 7 from 2:30 to 3:15 p.m.

Read to the Dogs SM: Improve your reading skills and make a new friend by reading aloud to a therapy dog from the Dove Lewis Animal Assisted Therapy and Education Program. Registration is required. Call 503-988-5392. Mondays, July 13 and 27 from 6:30 to 8 p.m.

Birds of Prey -- The Live Tour: Susan LaFontaine of the Raptor Center in Mill City will showcase live birds. Free tickets for seating will be available 30 minutes prior to the program. Thursday, July 16 from 2 to 2:45 p.m.
Guys Read Open House: Have a snack and learn about the reading club for guys. Thursday, July 16 from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m.

Guys Read Club: A guys-only reading club that makes reading fun. Call for further details about age-range and activities. Thursday, July 30 from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m.

Language Exchange: Engage in conversation with native English speakers who want to practice their Spanish, as well as with native Spanish speakers who want to practice their English. Sundays from 3 to 4:30 p.m.

Talk Time: Talk Time is an informal conversation circle for non-native speakers to practice speaking English. This is not a class, but an opportunity to meet new people, share your culture and have fun. Only English will be spoken. Saturdays from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m., except July 4.

Ten Steps to Starting a Business: This presentation is designed for individuals in the thinking stage of starting a business. Presented by the Hispanic Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce. Monday, July 6 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Latin Dance, Music and Culture: Have fun learning to dance while learning about the origins of these musical styles, the musicians and their culture. Salsa on Tuesday, July 7 from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.; cumbia on Tuesday, July 21 from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Kung Fu Film Series: Watch and discuss "The Legend of Drunken Master." Sunday, July 12 from 2:15 to 4:45 p.m.

Citizenship Classes: Learn about the process of becoming a citizen in a six-session series of classes. Classes are in English and are taught by library volunteers. Registration is required. Register online, in the library or by calling 503-988-5234. Mondays, July 13 through Aug. 17 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Pageturners: Join library staff and other readers for a party and bring a book to share for summer reading. Sponsored by the Friends of the Library. Wednesday, July 15 from 1 to 2:15 p.m.

Computer Lab: Lab assistants are available to help beginners practice their computer skills. Mondays from 5 to 7:30 p.m. Assistance will be available in Chinese, English and Spanish, or Fridays from 2:30 to 5 p.m. with assistance in English and Russian.

Word Processing I: Learn how to use the basic features of Microsoft Word 2002. Participants need to be comfortable using a keyboard and mouse. Registration is required. Register online, in the library or by calling 503-988-5234. Tuesday, July 7 from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Computer Basics: This class is designed for the complete beginner. Learn basic computer terms and keyboard and mouse skills. Registration is required. Register online, in the library or by calling 503-988-5234. Saturday, July 18 from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m.
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