There’s not going to be an newspaper’s worth of stories every week or even every month in a neighborhood, but when issues emerge, you can’t really rely on the citywide media for the deep dive often needed.

The Portland Street Response pilot project planned to start in the spring and be based in Lents is a big deal, and deserves a close examination.

The program is designed to lessen the need for armed officers to report to non-violent incidents involving the unhoused and free up police for more pressing matters. Cory Elia reported on the program during a information fair for potential volunteers.

We’re thankful Lents Neighborhood Association leadership gave us the heads up to cover their monthly meeting featuring Commissioner Jo Ann Hardesty, the program’s architect.

The presentation begins @ about the :58 mark.

***

The Committee on Community-Engaged Policing recommended several suggestions for Portland Police during a traffic stop, the Oregonian reported:

“… Portland police officers should introduce themselves with their full names, explain the reason for the stop, clearly state if they are detaining someone or not and ask if they could do anything to put people at ease.”

These all seem like more-than-reasonable requests.

You can watch their January meeting here.

FRIDAY, JANUARY 31ST

Live country (event):

“Hey!!! Get those boots on the dance floor cuz this is one helluva Country show!!”

Smoke Wagon: 9 pm
The Nash Brothers: 10:30 pm

Eastside Bar & Grill, 2530 NE 82nd Ave * 9 pm – midnight * $8

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 1ST

Conversation on homelessness:

Image may contain: one or more people and text

This is the first of four of these events. For more details and the other times / locations, go here.

PCC Southeast Community Hall, 2305 SE 82nd Ave * 9 am – noon

***

Once Upon a Time Family Theatre:

“Once Upon a Time Family Theatre is a magical mix of theatrical simplicity and grand storytelling for kids and their families. There’s always a slight twist to the traditional story that keeps these productions fresh. Though simply produced, these delightful and engaging productions will soon have everyone fully absorbed in the interaction of live theatre.”

This month’s production: “Sleeping Beauty”

Portland Metro Arts, 9003 SE Stark St * 11:30 am * $1 for children – $1 for adults

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 2ND

Anime Origami (event):

“Come and fold paper into your favorite anime or manga character. It’s fun and easy. No folding experience necessary.” 

Holgate Library, 7905 SE Holgate Blvd * 2 pm – 3 pm * free

***

Enjoy your weekend!