With COVID-19 raging in Portland, we can’t meet in person as much— but community building is still happening.

Gov. Kate Brown has added further restrictions to reduce the spread of the virus. Willamette Week reports here.

“As of Nov. 18, bars and restaurants will be take-out only. Store capacity will be limited and gyms and other indoor spaces closed.”

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Reflecting on some of this week’s happenings, this just in from one of our network affiliates Pandemic Duck News!:

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And though it pales in comparison to alleged issues in other states, a resignation of an election official in Oregon spotlights some serious problems with our voting and unemployment systems: dinosaur-era software.

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Though the dust is still settling around the November 4th election, the library ballot initiative promises to have big impacts on East Portland. Learn more from their notice below.

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We love our contributors, and expect some big things happening soon. Including a new story from Patricia Sanders, who will be telling the story of Black soldiers returning from World War I, and their continued fight for freedom at home in the United States.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 13TH

As part of Asian Pacific American Network of Oregon‘s East Portland Arts & Literary Festival, organizers are inviting community members to meet their newly-chosen artists in residence: Sabina Haque, Cary Miga, Roshani Thakore, Nikki Acevedo, Myra Aldan, and Felecia Graham.

“Since artist residency is grounded in local community, this event is specifically designed for artists, organizers, cultural workers in the greater Portland area. Join us to get to know your neighbors, friends, and fellow artists!”

They’ll work together to create new art for East Portland in and around Orchards of 82nd, where APANO is located.

Register to join them here. There are many more festival events throughout the month. See the full festival lineup here.

Online * 5:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. * free

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🌹 It’s been 15 years since 82nd Avenue was christened “Avenue of the Roses”

The Southeast Examiner talks to business owners about this key East Portland thoroughfare here.

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 15TH

The Lents International Farmers Market runs until November 22nd— and if you didn’t hear— the Montavilla Farmers Market is year ’round now!

Had enough of us promoting our video of a tour of the Lents market? Farmers markets are an amazing locus of entrepreneurial spirit, community, and sustainability— so here it is again! Featuring the multi-talented Michael B!

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Lents International Farmers Market is also Sunday.

Learn more about the market here, including how to “double up” your SNAP benefits.

SE 92nd & Reedway, between Foster Rd & Harold St * 9 am – 2 pm

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The Montavilla Farmers Market is every Sunday, learn more about their vendors for this week’s market here.

7700 block of SE Stark St * 10 am – 2 pm

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🦠📈 Be safe, and enjoy your weekend.