View from a Rockwood Cafe (Park Place Coffee)

Snowcap Christmas Giving Tree is up

2009-11-25T22:33:00.000-08:00

One of the groups that meets at Park Place are working with me to sponsor a giving tree in support of Snowcap. Today I received the attached list from the Director of Snowcap. The Portland Cup of Coffee Networkers group decorated the tree and will sponsor this effort.

The sad part of the message she sent was this was just the list of wishes from children in need who were at the food bank TODAY. So, there are many more children the other six days of the week who also have a Christmas wish to be fulfilled. If you would like to pick up one of these children's wishes, please come by Park Place and pick their star from the tree. If you have other items, such as food or presents to bring to Snowcap I have included their link here as well. All gifts must be returned by December 18th.

Here is the list you'll find on the stars at Park Place:

Chad 9 Wants a dog, but apt won’t allow it. A book about dogs or the boy-dog relationship,
a nice doggie stuffed animal, a video like Benji

Michael 6 Dad is a trucker so he really enjoys playing with trucks

Ruby 4 A doll with red hair

Sue 7 Beginning to read, loves books

Lora 12 Bubble Bath, lip gloss

Deborah 13 Twilight Vampire books

Juan 6 Toy carpenter tools or workbench

Christian 8 Legos or other building toys

Eric 5 Plastic barnyard with animals, grandparents live on a farm

Jason 8 Book about Vikings or other ancient warriors

Cameron 5 Musical toy

Neal 3 Bath time toys

Abby 9 Girls mystery book

Jessica 7 Play kitchen utensils

Faye 11 Doll with different outfits

Cathy 12 Taylor Swift CD

Alicia 3 Soft book so she can play at reading

Sarah 7 Leapfrog Text & Learn

Gina 6 My First Kitchen

Estella 8 Book about immigrant girls in America

David 5 Chuck the Talking Truck (Tonka toy)

Ramon 7 Toy Walkie Talkies

Peter 10 Transformers Role Play Helmet or other transformers toy

Oh! What a Fresh Coat of Paint Will Do!

2009-09-18T21:08:00.000-07:00

...Plaza Del Sol

Rockwood has been stuck in a state of flux for many years. Well meaning policy makers and citizens have held out hopes and grand plans for revitalizing and rebuilding this community. And each time, attempts are not realized. The budgets are too large, the economy is too depressed, and with no solutions its back to the drawing board.

Today a simple inexpensive project resurrected community building and hope in this community. And we learned that in this case, THE DRAWING BOARD was the solution! Plaza Del Sol is simply a painting on pavement of the sunshine and part of a bigger plan in Rockwood to have a "planet walk," a walking path, recreation and other amenities . It did not require plenty of negotiations with a developer, it required plenty of children with paintbrushes and people to share in a labor of love. Based on its success, we see clear evidence that engaging the people of Rockwood and tapping into their compassion can provide the momentum Rockwood needs.

Each time this community is questioned for its apathy, the people of Rockwood outshine the stigma. National Night Out's biggest event was in Rockwood, and Plaza Del Sol continued to engage our citizens. With our new "low-budget" plaza, it will be important to continue building on this momentum, and to IMMEDIATELY bring positive celebrations and activities onto this site - a step I hope will be fostered by the City.

I have to hand it to the City of Gresham and our Urban Renewal Director, Alice Rouyer for realizing what a fresh coat of paint can do for a community, and for a job well done! The work of our artists and Michael Orelove have laid the welcome mat for community engagement. I encourage the Rockwood residents and businesses to take the next vital step and make the plaza THEIR home by utilizing the area for positive activities and gatherings. The sun is shining and a brighter community is in the hands of the community to embrace.

Disc Golfers Adopt Vance Park

2009-08-30T19:02:00.000-07:00

In these days of budget cuts at the City of Gresham, cutting back on park maintenance at Vance Park was having a considerable effect on the park's climate. Since I am working on a positive story here, I will avoid editorializing TOO much on why Rockwood's neighborhood park was the one chosen to receive the least bit of services... and the amount of problems that has created with vagrants and issues in the tall grass left standing...

Okay, back to the happy stuff! In light of the service cuts, the disc golfers noticed their course had gone severely down hill. So, one of those golfers, Kris, called the City and asked if he could adopt Vance Park. His mission was to clean the park up and make it attractive to the disc golfers once more. With the help of a very dedicated staffer, Cathy Harrington, the park was adopted and a plan was put in place for disc golf clean-up volunteers.

Sunday, August 30th marked the first clean up of the Vance Park disc golf group and it was amazing what they accomplished! Over 20 volunteers showed up to pick up garbage, sticks, cherry pits - you name it. The work party started at noon and was still finishing up at 5 p.m. Between the rakes and the blowers and the garbage bags the difference was incredible!

So no one but the disc golfers and I knew what was accomplished today. If only I had taken before/after pictures - you too could know how hard the groups worked, but the work they did was incredible. And as these work parties continue, the volunteer group is expected to grow larger. I know I've said it in previous posts, and I will say it again.... ROCKWOOD IS ONE STEP CLOSER TO IMPROVEMENT BECAUSE THE DISC GOLFERS AND THEIR UNSELFISH DEDICATION TO THEIR COMMUNITY.

"Trying" Teenagers

2009-07-25T19:20:00.000-07:00

The one thing that happens as your business continues over a span of time, is you watch your customers (and I am sure they watch me) aging. My twenty-something and over customers are fun to follow along their life changes as they fall in love, plan their weddings, have babies. The youngsters are great to watch too. It is the teenage boy customers that seem to pull at the heart strings as I feel helpless in saving them through these tough years.

Two years ago, the group of neighborhood "street rats" who never had the ideal home life, used to come in and tell me about what they would be when they grew up. How they weren't going to be stupid and do drugs like other kids they knew. how they were going to be successful. That group has now split up, except for two of them, J & A.

J & A stop in once in awhile, as they wander the neighborhood and they are usually stoned. They tell me that their parents are mean to them and tell them they are worthless, when they've done "nothing wrong." J, who had a great paying job at fifteen now is unemployed at 18 and didn't pass the drug test for his next promising opportunity. "Dina, can I work for you?" he asks. I tell him that I will not employ someone who gets stoned. "But I won't do it at work!" is his defense. A, the other boy is his younger tag-along and idolizes J. I remain puzzled on what I can do, as the community coffeeshop owner that can make a difference in their lives.

Another of the street rat team came in 2 days ago - TT. I haven't seen him for quite some time and his voice had deepened and his demeanor had toughened. As a betting person, I wouldn't have bet a cent on TT. When he was younger I worried most for him, since his mother was a meth addict and he would relate stories that each time she was taken away and he thought she'd get treated, she was always released the next day. She was his "caretaker", but it was clear that he did the caring and she provided the roof.

When TT walked in the shop 2 days ago, and told me he wanted to show me something, he approached me with a formal greeting and a grim expression. I was afraid I was in for another tragic story. He then smiled as he set his new driver's permit on the counter. "Look! I passed the first time!" TT was accomplishing things on for himself despite the odds. He filled me in on his life since I hadn't seen him in months: Yes, he still lives with his mom who hasn't gotten help. No, he doesn't hang out with the street rats anymore since all they do is drugs. Well... he hasn't done anything bad for at least a month... I wrack my brain again on what more I can do for this boy.

Then there's Mr.K. The most charming boy ever in the shop who had grand ideas and grand plans and has made it to 17 with them all in tact. He'd always like to come in and run his ideas past me. And then he stopped. He just stopped coming in. Until one day he came in w/a new look and a new attitude. And it wasn't good. It was clear Mr. K came in because he needed some cheering up and he needed a friendly face. And as I was so busy with customers, Mr. K slipped back out after only a few words. Mr. K was not living at home anymore, had crashed a car, and life was upside down. He couldn't get along w/his parents anymore, and their boundaries were ridiculous in his eyes.

Today he was back in, and his smile was back in place, though his thoughts were now focused on the rebellion with his parents instead of his dreams of the future. He was fighting the accusations that he was a "bad kid" and he was going to hell. We talked about the way he sees things separate from his parents and he feels justified in those beliefs. I reminded him to never prove his parents right and give in on the belief that he is bad.

Oh, how much these parents mean to these kids, because their whole life turns upside down without their acceptance. The boys act like they don't care what their parents think, but when they think they are being told they are "bad" they seem to believe it. And they give into it, and that's when they lose.

I search for the magic words to help these kids understand, and I search for the answers to mend these relationships and get them through, but I have none. And I had none when my son and I hit the same bumps. And I know, as a parent, I made SURE I did not condemn him or call him bad, but somehow that is what he heard.

Now I look at TT who had no parent guiding him through each day, and am so pleased that he is building a successful path. And as a coffeeshop mentor, TT gives me the easiest job. I know that I can work w/TT by giving him a free drink for each week he "doesn't do anything bad." And though I can't change his world, or the other kiddos' either, I will do what I can. I am always open to advice on how I can best help these kids.

Summer Activities in Rockwood/Gresham

2009-07-16T09:27:00.000-07:00

August 4th is National Night Out at Vance Park. 5 – 8 p.m.
On this night, neighborhoods across the United States celebrate this event which works to strengthen neighborhoods and deter crime. Games, activities for all ages and a barbecue will be held. Families in our area are also invited to learn how to disc golf from the neighborhood pros. City of Gresham Police Department will be there to talk to residents and other events will be going on. PLEASE STOP BY AND SUPPORT NEIGHBORHOOD EFFORTS!

Park Place Coffee wants you to enjoy disc golf! Check out supplies here.
Park Place Coffee has discs for customers to check out and go try out the sport. We can also supply you with a map and scorecard when you go. Do you want to learn more about the game first? Come to National Night Out on August 4th (above) and learn the tips on how to use a putter, a driver and disc etiquette.

Fridays from 1:30 – 4 p.m. Vance Park hosts the REC Mobile.
The RecMobile brings fun and games for kids of all ages to Vance Park. Kids can paint, play games or get involved in many activities. Although a staff person is present, caretakers are asked to remain close by. This event is co-hosted by People for Parks, Gresham Ford, and others.

IMAGINATIVE CHILDREN’S GARDEN IS OPEN.
Thurs. – Sun. 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.
The garden is a chance for kids to learn more about nature through the Butterfly Pavilion, where they can see butterflies in all stages of development and enter the area where the butterflies light around them. Other activities such as bee events, children reading time etc. are also scheduled through the summer.

Never underestimate the power of disc golf

2009-06-28T15:10:00.000-07:00

I wonder if there are any good statistics that reveal how big of a sport disc golf is in Oregon, nationwide or worldwide. I CAN tell you that I underestimated the amount of golfers, the passion of the golfers, and the goodwill they bring to this small community of Rockwood.

Park Place Coffee is located next to Vance Park, which is one of the newer courses in southeast. I have learned a few things about disc golfers: 1) my friendliest customers are disc golfers; 2) disc golfers are comrades who protect their course and those who support their sport as well as other park users 3) disc golfers make a big impact on the riff-raff in the park as the eyes and ears of our parks community during their regular use of the park.

Vance Park was once known as a problem area because of gangs that hung out here. But then a disc golf course was constructed, and brought in a bunch of mellow diskers who constantly tour the area in groups as they play the sport. If you wanna get rid of a problem, you don't avoid going to the problem spots, instead you GO THERE, and the gang-bangers find somewhere else to hang. The Disc golfers have improved Rockwood because they are both a tolerant bunch and a passionate bunch.

Because they love their sport, they adopted Vance Park and Rockwood Central Park - in droved. And because of this commitment, the disc golfers are the majority and the gang-bangers are the minority.

We won a small biz grant!

2009-06-07T10:04:00.000-07:00

Thanks to the people at Intuit and my customers, Park Place Coffee won a grand total of $15,000 as a business grant. Woo Hoo! In previous posts I mentioned that the company, Intuit, which is the company that brings us TurboTax and Quickbooks had a national small business competition.

Businesses throughout the US competed to become finalists and win $5,000 and a flip mino video camera. We made it through the first round and into the finals with 49 other businesses. I was content with making it through the first round, and after I saw my video against some of the others, I knew that while my business may be an inspiration for many, my video depiction was questionable in comparison to many of the others.

I was so happy when I received a call from Gretchen at Intuit to tell me that I was one of the first prize winners, and would receive another $10,000! The greatest thing since then has been the excitement from my customers when they find out I won. So many of them voted and tried hard to gather votes from other friends and family members. Park Place not only won some future financial stability, but I was reminded and reassured by my great customers that this endeavor is worth it. I hope to have all of your support for years to come, and when it was put to the test you all came through. I hope to provide that same support to all of you when needed!

If you didn't get a chance to watch the video, please click on the title above to be taken to the site.

Yesterday, State Rep. Nick Kahl

2009-04-19T09:39:00.000-07:00

I am happy that our new State Rep. for this area, Nick Kahl is reaching out to the people in the district. I have attended one of many open discussion sessions he has held since taking office. Nick is now setting up "coffees" in various shops within his district to reach out to constituents, and yesterday he met w/citizens here. I appreciate his insight to support local small business as he gets the message out. Yesterday at least 3 new customers discovered Park Place Coffee by visiting with him.

Even those who would not take a Saturday morning to talk politics, but took their Saturday morning for a visit to the crepe shop became a little wiser on political issues. There are those who voiced opinions and there are those who just listened. I bet many of these customers hadn't considered how to get funding for roads now that gas taxes aren't efficient sources of revenue due to more fuel efficient cars and the contrasting agendas to get people to conserve, yet collect money.

Many other discussions were held and many ideas were shared, though I admit to missing quite a bit due to business on a sunny Saturday. This is why Park Place is here. To make the community a little more aware, even if it happens through osmosis!

More about the contest, social media, and friends

2009-04-04T12:51:00.000-07:00

From the previous blog, you will have read my appeal for everyone to go the link and vote for my grant submission. I have always been one who has felt a little awkward about asking for attention. I have been the worst hostess ever for tupperware or candle parties because I don't like to impose on others for my behalf. I felt a little different about asking people to vote for Park Place, since I knew that many feel it is important to them also.

So, as I catch up with the social media craze, I used my facebook and my linked in to ask for votes, and attached the link. I hoped to go back and check my grant submittal and see more and more clicks for votes. What I found was much sweeter.

Not only do people go to the site to vote, but my customers have been going on and writing such kind things about Park Place and the importance of it to this community. Of course, winning the business grant would be great. I await the results later on next month. But, the value to me - the pride and warmth I have gotten the opportunity to feel has been priceless.

I really do believe Park Place makes a difference. And maybe I like getting a little more attention after all. Next - purple hair and maybe some bright red hip boots....?

CLICK ON THIS TITLE TO VOTE FOR PARK PLACE BIZ GRANT!

2009-03-28T12:21:00.001-07:00

As many of you know, Park Place Coffee and Crepes moved into the Rockwood neighborhood a little more than 2 years ago. As my lease has been wrapping up, I have sadly had to consider closing down the business. I am proud to say that most businesses don't break even within 2 years time, and PPC has, despite the bad economy. However, "breaking even" doesn't pay the mortgage. I have been looking to close the doors in October when my lease ends.

BUT NOW...! due to a small business grant available through Intuit (the makers of Quickbooks, TurboTax, etc) I may have the chance to keep PPC in our community. I AM ASKING FOR YOUR HELP, AND WOULD ASK YOU TO RECRUIT EVERYONE YOU KNOW BY SENDING THEM THE LINK!

This business grant/contest has businesses write a short submittal. This submittal is then voted on - 40% by the Public; 60% by judges. The top 50 get some money and move on to the next round. The next round wins the finalists a $10,000 business grant!! The last business standing gets a $25,000 business grant.

1. Please click on the link to vote. At the bottom of the page it asks "do you think this is: Inspirational/Useful/Funny.

2. When you click to choose one it will ask you to register. You have to go through a minor registration in order to do so, but I ask you to please take a moment for a chance to save Park Place!

3. I am not going for the "funny" category, but most likely "INSPIRING." I'd like to ask you to vote for "INSPIRING" and then "USEFUL." (In case I have any heavy competition it gives me another chance.)

Thank you so much for doing this. I have been told by so many people that I am "NOT ALLOWED!" to ever close Park Place Coffee - and this could make it so another good thing doesn't leave Rockwood.

Next Generation of Customers

2009-03-26T10:39:00.001-07:00

As the owner of this cafe, I have grown close to many dear customers. The conversations here are colorful and varied, but there still remains that taboo question that you don't dare ask - and you hope that will just come up in conversation. . . "Are you preggers?" Much to my delight, I learned along the way that all of those who I suspected were preggers, indeed were. And because of that, I have many new little customers too. Five of my regulars have had babies since being customers here at Park Place. I have enjoyed getting to know these parents prior to having babies, and now see them doting over their little ones. I can tell they are all going to be great parents, and it is fun to watch the different lifestyles these babies will grow up in.
We have Disc Golf Caleb, whose proud parents, Sarah and Zach, had him out on the course within one week of being born; Sullivan, whose mom also holds a special place, cuz she asked for a chai from my cafe right after giving birth. I almost feel like I got to be part of the experience in some odd way! Sully has a great mom and dad and lots of dogs to keep him company. Study baby, who comes in with Dad as he tries to use the internet and computer but inevitably the baby gets more attention then the homework; Baby number four - born into a larger family with lots of older siblings to carry her around and dote over her; Nurse's baby, her mom craved crepes with cottage cheese, cheddar and chicken through the pregnancy and still does. She transcribes her patient information over the phone while eating her crepe and holding her daughter.
This weekend the tradition continued as another disc golf couple brought their new baby in, less than a week old, to introduce him. Out of six babies, I am happy to see that we will have at least two of them that will carry on the disc golf tradition in the park next door. And, I hope they all crave the drinks and crepes that mom fed them inadvertently before their birth so I can watch them grow up!

Multi-Cultural Community

2009-03-07T23:42:00.000-08:00

Some people judge a good neighborhood by its normalcy. Some, by whether it has pristine lawns and quiet residents who all seem to fit into a perfect picture of "American" life. One of the most intriguing things about Rockwood is that it doesn't fit that perfect mold, and the interesting people and cultures makes me appreciate how rich and diverse our community is.

I have many rich experiences to share about the residents, but for now, let me explain Rockwood with a broad stroke. Attached to this blog is a picture which contrasts only two of these cultures - the Hispanic and Russian populations.

Rockwood is a neighborhood that was built up mostly in the 60s as a home for middle class families. The Anglos that live here now are mostly elderly who raised a family here, or young couples who purchased an affordable first home here.

The Russian/Slavic population mostly attends the Home of God Russian Church, located next door to Park Place Coffee. The population is varied from the very young to the very old, who walk to church on Saturday by the droves. The view of hundreds walking to church is seen by some as a beautiful sight, by others an annoyance.

The Hispanic population in this community has grown very large. Many of the local markets and services are built to support this growing population. The Catholic Church across the street from my cafe has been designated as the Hispanic Catholic Church for the area, and hosts many masses and celebrations for the culture.

The black population is more recent to Rockwood, after a large community became relocated to this community from North Portland. It was partially gentrification, and part a travesty on the part of the Housing Authority of Portland when they remodeled Columbia Villa and displaced many of their tenants.

Put this altogether and you have Rockwood. I believe, by viewing the people walking by from my cafe window in just one day there would be many amazing stories to tell. I hope to share some of these stories of my special neighbors one-by-one.

Community Mania @ Park Place Coffee

2009-02-27T16:18:00.000-08:00

Some days I have to question my crazy life of having a business and being a community advocate in Rockwood. Today I revel in it, and feel appreciated and loved because of it. Without this opportunity, I wouldn't see the goodwill bestowed upon me by so many supporters. Today, I focus on the community advocates, tomorrow- my blessed customers.

GOOD: Yesterday I received a call from the Metro President Bragdon asking if he could bring some people by from the Johnson Creek Watershed.
GOOD: Yesterday I asked my son to come help me cover during that hour and he said he would. GOOD: This morning I was off to a great start with business.
BAD: My son called me and told me he would NOT be making it.
GOOD: The group from Metro arrived, and were very patient in ordering.
BAD: I was running the show single-handedly!
AMAZING!: My dear friend came in to get coffee. With no previous experience, she stepped behind the counter and helped me get the orders out.
BAD: I was unhappy that the group did not have the most efficient service.
GOOD: WE MADE IT THROUGH and everyone seemed to be smiling (?)when they left.

Because of Mr. Bragdon's kind support many new patrons visited Park Place Coffee. I am honored to have his group visit.

The next group to grab a seat were staff and volunteers for the Multnomah County Commission of Children and Families. They were meeting at my shop with a Gresham Councilor to discuss positive efforts they would like to focus in Rockwood.

"Next! Party of Six? " Donn, the executive director of Portland Lutheran School was treating his "ambassador" students to crepes for their efforts to recruit students to his wonderful school. Donn is also an incredible regular supporter along with his students.

While Donn was in, a visitor from a local woodworking shop engaged in conversation. More was to be learned about the site of the Justice Facility, which was going to displace his business.

Another round of visitors came from the Rockwood Library. The staff at the Rockwood Library could not be more dedicated to the children of the community. This led to further discussion of gathering the different groups in Rockwood that support children activities to see if a plan could be worked out to offer a range of activities, instead of overlapping services.

Angela, an amazing resource at Centennial Learning Center was meeting with a student. Angela is working on service learning projects at CLC, and is hoping to have the students do asset mapping in Rockwood.

I only worked the early shift, and the day was only half over. So, when people ask - WHY PUT YOUR BUSINESS IN ROCKWOOD? The answer is: There is heart here, there is support here, and there is a place for wonderful people here. Park Place Coffee is lucky enough to be the beneficiary of it all.

Apartment Personalities in Rockwood

2009-02-24T20:41:00.000-08:00

Apartments in Rockwood make headlines. The apartment complexes and the MAX transit are perceived as the reason gangs remain in our area. Because of my unique position as the only coffeeshop in the community I believe I am one of the few people that learns about the problems from all sides. Because of my unique position, I feel that with the information I have learned I have some responsibility to find answers, but have none.

The Tenants
The two notorious complexes in the area are Barberry Village and Riviera Gardens. I have customers who are tenants from both of these locations. My customer from Riviera Gardens sits in my coffeeshop while her husband goes to his appointments. I ask her why she doesn't wait at home instead of going out in the cold. She is frightened to be in her apartment by herself. She has related many incidents of mischief and violence she has experienced or witnessed.

My customers from Barberry Village are a young family who are happy that they can move out of the complex and out to Clackamas soon. They too, have witnessed violence, prostitution and live in the complex where the double homicide shooting occurred 1 month ago.

The Gang Issues
I talk to local police officers who see a transition that is going on now. The Barberry Village apartments were once controlled by the Hispanic gangs. Now the complex is being taken over by the Black gangs, with a whole new level of rivalry and hierarchy at play. The Riviera Garden apartments are still controlled by the Hispanic gangs and those that are not, are not treated well in the complex.

The Landlords
I know three good men that visit my shop who are landlords of complexes in Rockwood. Prior to meeting any one of these men, my theory was landlords in Rockwood were slumlords. All three of these owners are just the opposite. They own complexes in the roughest areas of town but conscientiously screen their tenants and seem to have limited problems. Regardless of how well they keep their units, their complexes are plagued by the reputation of the area. Their rent, their quality of applicants, and the vandalism keeps them from ever having a top notch complex.
The Social Workers
And then there are the social workers: Many complexes have partnered with social agencies who are stationed at troubled complexes. This provides an additional resource for the apartment dwellers and we appreciate the apartment owners' willingness to participate. Other complexes have members from the Compassion Connect group who work to build community there. These individuals bond with the families and make sure the children's needs are met in many cases.

All of these personalities attempt to maintain a level of peace and safety at the complexes. What is the ingredient that is missing to make all of these efforts gel into a comprehensive solution? If only we knew...

The Romance Test - Valentine's Day

2009-02-21T23:18:00.000-08:00

For Valentine's Day I put a simple Romance Test for couples to take when they came in the shop. I have left the test up, since everyday a few more couples want to take it.

I never imagined what a learning experience and healthy exercise it would be for everyone who takes it. I never imagined how much I would learn about couples either.

The questions are pretty simple: 1) Where did you first meet your partner? 2) Where was your first date? 3) Where was your first kiss? 4) Where were you the first time he/she said I love you? 5) What is his/her favorite feature of yours? 6) What was he/she wearing when you first met? 7) How long have you been together? 8) What is your anniversary date? 9) When is their birthday? 10) What is his/her favorite song?

My son suggested I take the test down because he thought it was leading to couples arguing. I explained to him, these weren't "arguments," but healthy discovery going on. Like, "you don't know my favorite song? It's (blank)!"

I observed that many times the men could answer questions like "where did you meet?" and "what was she wearing?" better than the women. I observed that once they were "defined as a couple" the women started tracking the details. It's as if that initial interest and connecting was a lot more laborious, victorious, and thus memorable, for the men.

There were couples in their 70s that took the test and scored 100%, and couples newly dating that did the same. There were plenty of young and middle-aged couples who didn't do as well. Ironically, I have not taken the test with my boyfriend. I sadly know that he couldn't answer #5 (favorite feature), nor could I answer it for him. This tells me that we don't spend the time pointing out the little personal things that we care about to one another. #10 (favorite song) would face the same challenge.

I hope those simple ten questions made those partners' day a little more fun, but I hope it also makes them think about the answers, and get to know one another better if they have more to learn. Maybe it is about caring enough to ask the questions, but not about the score if they don't get it right.

The Bumblebee Sisters

2008-12-06T13:49:00.000-08:00

Natasha and Johna (sp?) were in today. Natasha is 15 and bubbly, Johna is a little more reserved. I was surprised from their first visit when they came in all smiles, inquisitive, and excited to visit. Many of the Russian girls in the area tend not to wear their hearts on their sleeves.

Today the girls were bored and were making the most out of the day, by wearing matching yellow and black-striped hoodies while wandering the neighborhood. I teased them about being "twinners," Natasha said she wished they were twins, but were just sisters. Natasha wasn't sure they would wear their matching hoodies again, because she told me (rather indignantly) that someone had told them they looked like bumblebees!

Natasha had questions about the Russian church next door. What time are their services? What are their services like? I had assumed that since they were Russian and lived in the neighborhood, they must attend the Home of God Church. I assumed wrong.

I brought Natasha to the church's website for her to learn more. "I really want to go to this church," she said. "I have neighbors that go to this church, and I watch them leave their house and meet up with others and all walk to church together. They all look so beautiful in their church clothes." In contrast, she explained that her family DRIVES to their church, and they don't even really dress up. "I wish I could go to church with the Russian families here."

Natasha attended Centennial, and had loved it, but now she is home schooled. Her sister attends Centennial Middle School and when she reaches high school age she will also be home schooled. Neither girl seemed pleased with the arrangement.

I have a lot to learn from these girls, to offset my presumptions that all Russian teens go to the same church, have the same friends and live the same lifestyles.

Natasha is a dear girl, apparently stuck between these cultures. She is a bright light on wintry days here, and she yearns for a place to belong. She is home-schooled because of her ethnicity, but does not have the support from her ethnic group, because she is not the predominant religion of the area.

She is not unlike many Rockwood teenagers, who stop in here because they are bored and looking for something to do. But some people - like me - don't quite get the message until it is loud and clear. The teens that walk the neighborhoods all pretty much want what Natasha longs for - a place here in Rockwood where teens could go and belong, be safe and be teens. A space that didn't "belong" to one culture or another, and where teenagers could do teenager things with no regard to race, religion or status.

Salvation Army In Rockwood needs donations

2008-11-20T08:45:00.000-08:00

On 194th and SE Stark in Rockwood stands a new beautiful building bringing another source of hope to the Rockwood Community. The Salvation Army's Phase I is now complete, but the work has just begun. In order to bring full services to our youth and our families, Phase II and III must be completed. Phase II will bring a warehouse and social services space to provide spiritual and physical needs for local families. Phase III will bring a gymnasium to support the positive activities for our youth. The Salvation Army's motto . . . "Improving Our Community One Life at a Time."

And why is this project so important to Rockwood? If you go to any meeting where people brainstorm on what it will take to bring longterm improvements to this community, you will always find Positive Actvities for Youth within the top three. Young, lower income children and teens in this area need productive activity, and the Salvation Army offers it.

I had the honor of attending a benefit concert hosted by Drake and Lynn Snodgrass, featuring Michael Allen Harrison in the Phase I building two nights ago. Through the program we had the opportunity to hear from some of the local youth that have been served. We heard these youth demonstrate their skills as polished speakers, and we heard these youth in the beautiful music they can now perform. Thanks to the Salvation Army for putting music in their hands and confidence in their hearts. Thanks for community supporters like the Snodgrass' and Mr. Harrison who have donated their time and efforts.

Many grand plans that are slated for Rockwood tend to fall through the cracks and don't materialize. Thank God that the Salvation Army is phasing in a story of hope and success here. Every penny that goes toward building the final phases of this project benefits the kids and the community.

Salvation Army has a website link, and when you donate you can note where you would like the money directed. Please consider giving, and requesting this money to go to building our Rockwood site. Click on the heading above, and it will link you to the site: www.tsacascade.org

Summer Activity for Kids in Rockwood

2008-06-11T10:02:00.000-07:00

So many volunteers and non-profit organizations give their heart to help in Rockwood. Here are a few of the upcoming opportunities for youth and young adults in Rockwood. Contact information can be found on the community calendar link. (you can click on the title and be linked to that page.)

The Rec. Mobile: June 23rd - August 29th. This brings fun activities to various locations in Gresham. 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Rec Mobile at Vance Park on Thursdays. Soccer, Putt Putt Golf, Basketball, Badminton, scavenger hunts, kite making, UNO Tournaments.

Ascension Lutheran's Free Soccer Clinic - 6/23-6/27 for 3 y.o.- 5th and 6-8 Grade
Participants receive a free t-shirt, water bottle, snacks, shin guards, soccer ball, BBQ
The actual clinic will be held at Portland Lutheran School.

The Good News Health Clinic - July 14 - 18thL Good News Free Summer Camp for Grades 6 - 8
This summer camp includes breakfast and lunch everyday along with projects, sports, music and an opportunity for kids to get involved with local community projects.

This is the wonderful community clinic opened up by Dr. Bob Sayson where he offers medical care to the community regardless of income. The good news health clinic wants to offer more than just health care to Rockwood.

People for Parks, Imaginative Children's Garden - TBA
Gresham's Recreation Bus will be stopping at the garden, located in Vance Park (right next to Park Place Coffee) for various activities through the summer.
Storytime will also be a regular feature at the garden.

City of Gresham, Park Department - Kids' Camps
here's the link: http://www.ci.gresham.or.us/departments/des/parksandrec/kidsCamp.pdf

And, there's always Disc Golf in Vance Park... Discs available for check out here.

Dedicated to Mike, who was dedicated to PP

2008-05-30T07:34:00.000-07:00

Mike, his friends and family were all regulars of Park Place Coffee. At least weekly I would enjoy a visit from Mike with his friend Gail, and the two twins - Ruby and Ivy. I was honored to have PP be their special place for outings. Ruby and Ivy would sit down at the bar next to me and watch me make crepes as they drank their smoothies. Mike would always order a ham and cheddar crepe.

I always felt like a special friend to Mike when he would come in. He would bring other relatives and friends in the coffee shop and always make an effort to make sure he brought each visitor up to me for an introduction. His relatives loved it and starting coming in as well.

Some days Mike would get his order and go back and soak up the sunshine in the corner of the shop. "I'm like a lizard on a rock soaking up the sunshine," he said.

Mike's friend Gail came in this week to tell me that Mike has passed away and she has had a rough few months. It was great to see Gail, for I had missed her. Gail reported that the twins are growing leaps and bounds, and I look forward to seeing them again.

Mike will be truly missed -his presence and the honor he bestowed upon me each time he continued on his mission to bring me new customers. Mike will always be remembered as one of my early, dedicated and dear customers and friends made here at Park Place.

The House on Stephens

2008-05-28T09:39:00.000-07:00

For years everyone in the neighborhood has seen the eyesore of an abandoned house at the corner of 181st and SE Stephens. Previous experience within this community has helped me understand that an abandoned house usually has much more going on behind the boarded up windows. Abandoned houses tend to be a draw for trouble, and this house was suffering .

Other abandoned houses in the area have turned into shelter for the homeless, graffiti draws, and a hideout for people to break in and do their drugs. As the market suffers and more houses go into foreclosure the fear of this condition multiplying increases. The deconstruction of this house is one less draw for these problems.

Thank goodness the landowner for the house on 181st and Stephens has realized that NO HOUSE on the property is better than a boarded up house. Many neighbors have mentioned to me that they are very happy to see that the house is being taken down. I know the whole neighborhood is breathing a sigh of relief that the boarded structure, the graffiti, and the tall grass will not be the first thing drivers see anymore as they travel through our neighborhood via 181st. Here's hoping that this land will be developed in the future to be another bright spot as we enter Rockwood.

Update on Marino Sammy - back to Micronesia

2008-05-22T09:55:00.001-07:00

So Sammy has come and gone. Thank goodness he made it back in the coffee shop before heading home to his island of Udot! I apologized to him if I caused him any worry about his people. Who was I to raise doubt in his mind about his people with very little information about the reality of gangs from his island?

Sammy was in the United States for approximately three weeks. He visited his son, and watched his son marry a woman, also from the state of Chuuk. (She too is "Chuukese".) There is a church in Aurora, Oregon where ministers preach the Protestant religion in Chuukese. The Chuukese people are also trying to raise funds so someday they can build a church of their own. (I have attached a link to this heading that takes you to a site which gives information on the Micronesian population in this area.)

Many members of the bride and groom's family came to town for the wedding - most of them were here in America for the first time. Unfortunately, the family had limited luxuries while here and their time in America was spent walking to and from the stores located along 182nd Ave. I had hoped to find a way to get the group to the Columbia River Gorge, or to our very cold beaches, or up to Mt. Hood, but I couldn't get it arranged.

Sammy came in yesterday to say goodbye, and to remind me to write. So Sammy and I have exchanged addresses and I hope someday to visit his island. Even if I cannot, we promise to write. Maybe someday we'll have more posts about Sammy and new information from Chuuk - once I come up with a few thousand dollars so I can visit. Or maybe after I visit, I'll just stay. Then we can forget the posts, cuz I won't have internet anymore, just sunshine, relaxation, and a nice little garden.

Update on Pat

2008-05-21T08:10:00.000-07:00

Thank you to all of those who saved a prayer for Pat. It is amazing to me how much people are willing to gather their love and hope together and direct it toward one who they don't know. The outpouring of the support has been so sincere.

I talked to Pat's co-worker who read me an email from his wife. It mentioned that results were about as great as could be expected and his further treatments would be less grueling than originally predicted. I am sure the prayers from all of you helped make this possible.

Micronesia & Marino Sammy

2008-05-08T10:57:00.000-07:00

Each morning I noticed a man passing by on the street in front of the cafe. One day he came in. Marino Sammy, a gentle man with dark features, a smile, a twinkle in his eye, and a clear accent came in and asked for coffee. Our coffee does not taste like the coffee in his country. He gets it from the Phillippines. His name is Marino Sammy and he comes from the Federated States of Micronesia. He lives in the State of Chuuk on an island called Udot, that is less than 1.5 miles wide.

Sammy is in town visiting his son who moved to this area. His daughter moved to Missouri. His island has limited opportunities for jobs, so his kids moved. He is in Oregon for the first time and of course finds it much different. In his country, Sammy shops little. Most items that are eaten are grown by him or by other locals who share their food. He has to shop for very little. Each state within Micronesia has its own language. English is their secondary language. Sammy is proud of his life and his people and his island. He works for the government and gets up each morning and hops on his motorboat for a half hour boat trip to work on another island.

Sammy doesn't know about gangs or thieves or busy urban life. He likes it that way. Come to think of it, I think I'd like that too!

I pulled up the Federated State of Micronesia for him on the map and he beamed as he guided me through the beautiful pictures and showed me his homeland on the map. "Wow! You can find all of this on the computer?" he marveled. After looking at his beautiful state, I wanted to go. "Come to Chuuk and I will show you all of this!," said Sammy.

Later that day, a police officer was in and I told him about a visitor from Micronesia. "Micronesian gangs are heavy drinkers and a violent bunch, just a few miles up the street." I was disappointed, and I stupidly disappointed Sammy later.

Next morning Sammy came in with his smile and we enjoyed conversation. I mentioned that I heard we had Micronesian gangs. He was crushed. I explained to him that it wasn't a reflection of his people, but more what happens in America when poor immigrants come to find work, cannot and as a matter of survival get involved in drug sales. As I said it, I thought about it. These peaceful people from a quiet country come to America - a common thread amongst immigrants - and then learn about gangs.

Sammy was disturbed. "Find this information for me on the computer and show me," he said. I tried and couldn't. "Please find this information and print it for me on my next visit," he said. "If people from my country are doing bad things here I want to know and do what I can to stop it."

I spent the evening researching what I could for Sammy. I google searched for "micronesian gangs" and could only find issues in Hawaii, where there is signs of much racial tensions where the word "gang" is used in comments. I searched the gang expert sites and found no issues with Micronesian gangs. Perhaps I concerned Sammy for nothing?

So, Marino Sammy, a happy gentleman from Micronesia comes in my coffeeshop and paints me a picture with his stories, that when I close my eyes, I can feel the serenity. And Marino Sammy comes in my coffeeshop and I tell him stories about America and the gangs from Micronesia and now when he closes his eyes, he worries. If only we could see the world through Sammy's eyes here - and the beauty. Paradise is how you view it, and I'd rather share in Sammy's paradise then the black brush in which I just painted Micronesia American-style.

If you pray, please save one for Pat

2008-04-28T20:48:00.000-07:00

Pat, my "buck fifty" guy has been coming to Park Place Coffee since the beginning, always joking that he is only allowed to spend "a buck fifty" per day, and he does it at my place in the morning for one medium cup of coffee. There has not been a day that he has not come in and brought a smile to my face with a goofy joke or a wonderful story.

Then one day his story was a bit grimmer. Pat was diagnosed with cancer in very advanced stages. He still didn't leave the news without also making a remark to make me smile. As the days grow closer for his surgery, chemo and radiation he still makes jokes. "My wife is really mad cuz she just got me trained after 22(?) years and now she thinks she's gonna have to train a new one."

Today Pat went to work and on April 30th Pat checks into the hospital. I asked him what the heck he was doing going to work when he should be enjoying himself and relaxing. It was his last day to work before surgery. I treated him to coffee, so I got "buck fifty" as a tip! The thing I got that mattered the most though, was a big hug and a promise - "I'll see you in six weeks!" And its a promise Pat has to keep. So, I ask you to help Pat keep his promise and pray for him with me. Such a wonderful man deserves all our prayers, and we need to make sure he can continue touching the lives of everyone he meets with laughter.

April 30th let Pat be okay!

The High School Mural Project

2008-04-21T11:03:00.000-07:00

I have recently communicated with the local high schools and am excited to announce that the high schools that represent this area will be doing murals to represent their high school, that will then be displayed along the fenceline of Vance Park.

This gives Rockwood a chance to bring in a little local art, it gives the schools a chance to show a little community pride, and it brightens up our neighborhood. Local schools are in the midst of arranging their murals. Keep an eye out in the near future to see what our local high schools have done!