My body is warm, but my spirit is still chilled by the cold-related death of 51-year-old Mark Elliot Johnson earlier this week. He died on a sidewalk in front of a business near 99th and East Burnside, not far from the eastern boundary of our Montavilla neighborhood.
It seems like it would be so simple to just open the doors of churches and community centers, but, for whatever reason, we don’t have warming options in or near Montavilla right now. I’ve been reaching out to churches and non-profits to learn more about their community service, and the cold temperatures and tragic death of Mark Johnson definitely highlights the need for a closer look at what’s available— and what it takes to provide more.
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Also the Montavilla Farmers Market is hiring a part-time financial & volunteer coordinator!
SATURDAY
We’ll be opening the doors to the cafe / workspace at Milepost 5 today from 8 am – 1 pm. There’ll be $1 coffee and tea, and space to work on art. It’s mainly for residents, but part of MP5’s mission is outreach (I’m on the board), so feel free to come by and say hello. I’ll be hosting… cafe entrance on Oregon St. just west of 82nd
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At The O’Neil Public House from 6 pm – 8 pm: “If Florence & The Machine and Alabama Shakes had a baby, Kaiya On The Mountain would be their love child. This youthful band has the music, the energy and the looks to back up their passion to put on an unforgettable show and they’re all no older than 21. So if you like alternative folk music with a southern flare, stick around. You might just fall in love.” From 9:30 pm – 1 am: gritty roots rock with Gravel. 6000 NE Glisan St * 6 pm – 8 pm * free
SUNDAY
The Montavilla Neighborhood Association Housing & Homelessness committee met Tuesday, and it’s good to see neighbors getting organized to help. The Hot Meal + Cold Weather Supply Share is an opportunity to help in the neighborhood. west side of NE 82nd, just north of the overpass, across from the 82nd Ave Max stop * noon – 3 pm
Village Portland 