If you’re reading this story, you’re probably very familiar with Portland’s neighborhood association system. And if you’re familiar with it, you know it isn’t alway smooth; isn’t always nice. 

But should it be scrapped? And what will be lost?

That’s the question being considered by the City of Portland. In a partership with the fabulous listener-powered KBOOradio, I interviewed Christian Trejbal, chair of the Overlook Neighborhood Association.

Trejbal says that the City hasn’t been communicative or clear about what’s going to be changed, but if NAs lose their City-sanctioned powers, there will be a lot less opportunities for oversight and engagement.

This is a citywide-heavy post this week, but I’m just following the flow.

Portland activists are organizing for the fight for a better police union contract. It might sound wonky, but the union contract sets the frame for police oversight and accountability— and right now the contract heavily favors the police.

The rally was organized by Portland Resistance. 

***

The Oregonian wrote an interesting pieceon how the painting of the Southeast Steele Street footbridge— a really cool grassroots effort—- was almost “restored” (painted over) by Oregon Department of Transportation.

FRIDAY, JULY 12TH

East Portland baseball:

The Portland Picklestake on the San Francisco Seals all weekend! There are games Friday, Saturday, and Sunday! 

The schedule is here.

Walker Stadium, 4727 SE 92nd Ave * $5 – $13

SATURDAY, JULY 13TH

Four years in Montavilla:

“Montavilla Brew Works will tap four special beers that will be released on Saturday. It’ll also host Mixteca, a food truck known for its tamales and tacos, serve a birthday cake and offer up some nice raffle prizes!”

Montavilla Brew Works, 7805 SE Stark St * all day

People of the Drum (event):

“Enjoy vibrant performances and free drumming workshops for youths in this special program designed to strengthen and celebrate our community! 

Presented by Portland Taiko, sponsored by Portland Parks & Recreation, East Portland Community Office, and KBOO Community Radio. Supported by the Regional Arts and Culture Council, Multnomah County Cultural Coalition, and The Collins Foundation.”

Gateway Discover Park, 10520 NE Halsey Street * 2 pm – 4 pm

SUNDAY, JULY 14TH

Farmers market:

For the full list of producers and things happening at the market, go here.

Montavilla Farmers Market, 7700 block of SE Stark St * 10 am – 2 pm

Vino Veritas Sunday Jazz / All Day Happy Hour:

“Come enjoy live jazz Sunday afternoon along with all day Happy Hour. A wonderful way to wind down the week.”

Vino Veritas, * 5 pm – 7 pm