Portland Police received a call about an active shooter at the hospital at 10:59AM, prompting an immediate deployment of emergency tactical units. Legacy Health issued a statement urging the public to avoid the area: "An active shooter event has occurred at Legacy Good Samaritan Medical Center. At this time we ask that you please avoid the area. We will continue to provide updates as we have them."

The quiet neighborhood was thrown into chaos with the rush of police cars and fire trucks to the scene. Todd Zarnitz, president of the Northwest District Association, was on NW 21st Avenue and NW Johnson when the commotion erupted. "I was picking up trash with a neighborhood clean-up when fire trucks and police swarmed the block. A police officer carrying a long gun shouted to everyone to immediately take shelter due to an active shooter event.”

Nearby Stadium Fred Meyer was briefly closed and searched by police following a report that the suspect may have fled to that location on a scooter.

The Oregonian detailed later in the afternoon that police activity and another shooting near a U.S Bank at Northeast Glisan Street and NE 181st Ave was related to the hospital shooting. Oregonian reporter Maxine Bernstein added on Twitter, “Portland police confirm they fatally shot a suspect sought in the Legacy Good Sam hospital shooting.”

Portland Police described the manhunt later in a statement: “A tactical effort was made to locate the suspect, and officers determined he was in a vehicle. East Precinct and Gresham Police Officers stopped the vehicle near Northeast 181st Avenue and Northeast Everett Street in Gresham. SERT and CNT officers responded to assist with the stop, as did Multnomah County Sheriff’s Deputies. During the incident, shots were fired by police. The suspect is deceased. No officers were injured.”

Legacy Health Chief Operating Officer Jonathan Avery said at an afternoon press briefing, “Our hearts and prayers go out to the victims today. This is an extremely scary situation, and the hospital is safe at this time.”

A complete hospital lockdown, in effect for most of the day Saturday, was lifted after 3PM. The Emergency Department restarted normal operational status at 7:30PM. However, the Good Samaritan Family Birth Center, located nearest to where the shooting took place, remains closed.

Good Samaritan identified the deceased as Bobby Smallwood in a statement. “Bobby Smallwood, one of our dedicated safety and security officers, was tragically shot and killed while protecting our patients and employees. Another staff member was injured in the shooting and is in stable condition. It’s important to know that the suspect is no longer a threat, and no patients were physically injured in the incident.”

“Words cannot express the profound grief we are experiencing,” said Kathryn Correia, Legacy Health president and CEO. “We offer our unwavering support to Bobby’s loved ones, to our patients in our care, to the staff at Legacy Good Samaritan and to all of our employees and providers suffering today.”

On Sunday Legacy Health released details about the second Good Samaritan employee hurt in the gunfire. “That employee suffered a shrapnel injury, not a direct bullet wound. The employee was treated at Good Samaritan and released to go home on Saturday.”

According to the Oregonian, Legacy security personnel are unarmed. Several community members have begun to question this arrangement in light of the hospital shooting and the increasing level of gun violence citywide.

Portland Police Chief Chuck Lovell said Saturday afternoon, “This is a sad day for the staff at Legacy Health, and our hearts go out to the family, friends, and coworkers of the employees affected by today’s tragedy. By all accounts, hospital staff and law enforcement did great work responding to this incident, and I’m grateful for the coordinated efforts by all.”

Mayor Ted Wheeler said in a statement, “This is an incomprehensible tragedy and I send my heartfelt condolences to those impacted. This highly volatile situation required substantial resources and coordination to address. I am incredibly grateful to Portland Police for their fast response to protect our community.”

MORE INFORMATION:

Security Guard Shot and Killed at Good Samaritan Hospital, Suspect Deceased After Officer Involved Shooting
https://www.portlandoregon.gov/police/news/read.cfm?id=493012&ec=2

Legacy Good Samaritan Incident
https://www.legacyhealth.org/About/news-and-media/for-the-media/news-releases/2023/Legacy-Good-Samaritan-Incident

The Metropolitan Learning Center, a K-12 school on the park's boundary, erected a metal fence in a desperate bid to insulate students from drug abusers smoking fentanyl mere steps away in a series of abandoned cars on NW Hoyt Street. Meanwhile the The Emerson School, a K-5 public charter school keeps their students strictly indoors in a hardened campus.

Mayor Ted Wheeler's Emergency Declaration last August—an announced ban on encampments around schools and major school routes—has had little to no effect on either cleaning up the park, or even prioritizing action. Illegal campsites persist mere feet from families trying to enjoy public playground equipment, grade schools trying to educate our children, and along several PBOT designated "Safe Routes to School."

In addition, parking in the area should be heavily enforced by PBOT, as all cars require either a PBOT Zone M parking pass or a parking meter payment through most hours of the day. However, PBOT appears to be deliberately avoiding the area.

Northwest Portland News reached out to PBOT for comment and explanation, however Director of Communications Hannah Schafer refused to comment.

Northwest Portland News later filed several reports with the City of Portland’s “campsite reporting tools" and found a disturbing lack of interest. Here are some of the reports:

Report: Abandoned car being used for drug consumption and located next to a public school (MLC).
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/LjoXMQJ79NzChnuNA

City response: “Duplicate report.”
Probability of action: very low

Report: Stolen car (confirmed with license plate check)
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/jS1bBHhzwoN71q1y7

Non-emergency phone hold time: 47 minutes.
City response: “We’ll send an officer to check on it.”
Result: car towed away in less than 24 hours!

Report: Illegal camping near a public school (MLC), and feet from a children’s playground.
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/UDuqwYv1cwuWdrpN9

City response: “Risk Assessment 41/100.”
Probability of action: very low

Report: Illegal camping near a public school (Emerson) and on a PBOT “Safe Route to Schools” corridor.
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/n81fj2fFivpNPZK77

City response: “Duplicate report.”
Probability of action: very low.

Report: Illegal camping near two public schools (MLC and Emerson) and on a PBOT Safe Route to Schools corridor.
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/ZXD8N12mzgm1mV8S8

City response: “Risk Assessment 34/100.”
Probability of action: near zero.

However, three blocks away from the chaos, in front of the posh French inspired eatery Cafe Nell, Northwest Portland News did find heavy interest and enforcement from PBOT.

MORE INFORMATION:
https://www.portland.gov/parks/couch-park
https://www.portland.gov/transportation/safe-routes-school/about
https://www.portland.gov/wheeler/news/2022/8/19/mayor-wheeler-expands-emergency-declaration-prohibit-camping-key-walking

Written and directed by the dynamic duo of Ian Fowler and Gabriel Isaac Lakey, the film stars a talented ensemble cast including Donny Persons, Nikki Flinn, Eric Martin Reid, Anne Zander, Ahmed Toney, Jonathan Daniel Miles, Brain Adrian Koch, and Michelle Mathews. The production resonates with an undeniable local flavor, as many scenes were filmed right here in Northwest Portland, and several of the cast members reside in the district.

"Punched After The Fact" follows the unconventional story of a janitor, held at gunpoint, who falls in love with his philosophical assailant, only to discover she has a stalker - a mild-mannered writing hopeful aiming to use her to sell his script. With its quirky and unique narrative, the film is expected to draw a diverse crowd of cinema-goers.

Local hotspots Carina Lounge, M Bar, and Triple Lindy serve as both filming locations and rich contextual backdrops for the movie, injecting an authentic taste of Northwest Portland's culture into the storyline. This immersive experience seamlessly blends the familiar contours of our cityscape with the narrative world of the film, creating a unique synergy between the tale and its setting.

The film's premiere serves as a testament to the power of community. Funded through a successful Seed&Spark campaign that raised $10,425 for production, the film is a true product of local support and enthusiasm.

Following the premiere, guests can extend their experience by partaking in a multi-location after-party hosted by local establishments, including Round Here, Triple Lindy, The Pharmacy, Kells Brewpub, and Bar Diane. These venues, coined as the official "After Party Punch Locations," will offer a special $5 boozy punch to premiere guests as part of the celebration.

Lead actor Donny Persons, who plays Davie in the film, recently spoke to Northwest Portland News about the project, emphasizing the gratifying experience of filming in a district he now calls home. A local resident, he expressed excitement about using familiar locations in the film, stating, "Shooting the movie in NW restaurants and bars let us turn places that we know personally so well into the land of make believe."

Michelle Mathews, the film's producer and a NW Portland local, echoed Persons' sentiments, emphasizing the community's involvement in bringing the film to life. "We couldn't have made the movie without the charity of the people in the audience. We couldn't have made the movie without our investors—the Seed and Spark donors—a lot of whom are our neighbors," Mathews shared.

"Punched After The Fact" is a love letter to Northwest Portland, an exploration of the district's vibrant character through a dynamic story of romance, thrills, and unexpected turns.

Grab your tickets at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/punched-after-the-fact-portland-movie-premiere-tickets-599200032427 and be part of the cinematic celebration that proves just how punchy Portland can be!

With its offbeat storyline, fascinating characters, and undeniable local charm, "Punched After The Fact" promises an unforgettable journey that not only entertains, but also pays homage to the places and people that make Northwest Portland what it is.

And remember, this isn't just a movie premiere - it's an invitation to experience, appreciate, and celebrate the vibrancy of our local community. As Michelle Mathews put it, it's about "bringing people together to enjoy each other while sharing film, music, performances, art, food & beverages!" After all, isn't that what Northwest Portland is all about? “Joie de vivre!”

With the premiere of "Punched After The Fact," we're not just watching a film - we're celebrating the spirit of our Northwest Portland community. See you there!

MORE INFORMATION:

https://www.cinema21.com/movie/punched-after-the-fact

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/punched-after-the-fact-portland-movie-premiere-tickets-599200032427

ESCO's redevelopment offers a unique and critical opportunity for urban renewal, one that the City of Portland is seizing with both hands as part of the MP2H Northwest Plan.

Portland’s leaders, urban developers, and most importantly, its residents, find themselves at a pivotal moment, not just in terms of urban planning, but in defining the identity they envision for their city.

As Portland contemplates the future of the ESCO site, the Bureau of Planning and Sustainability organized a design workshop last week at Friendly House to brainstorm possible themes that could guide the site's redevelopment. The workshop generated a trove of exciting ideas, each with its unique promise and potential.

Two design themes have gained traction recently: a Centennial theme and an Industrial theme. The Centennial theme aims to honor the Lewis and Clark Centennial Exposition of 1905, a landmark event that put Portland on the world map and catalyzed its growth. The Industrial theme pays homage to the ESCO Corporation's legacy and the city's industrial roots.

However, both of these themes, while valid in their respect, lack a vital element: a vision for a greener, more sustainable future.

Amid the ideas tabled during the workshop, one emerged with a fresh perspective, challenging the narrative, and boldly stepping into the territory of visionary urban planning. This was the Forest Park theme.

The Forest Park theme takes inspiration from the verdant expanse of Forest Park, our green haven stretching over 5,100 acres, one of the country's largest urban forest reserves. Forest Park is a beacon of the city's commitment to environmental conservation and sustainability.

The Forest Park theme proposes to transform the ESCO site into an urban, mixed-use neighborhood that emulates the rich greenery and ecological diversity of Forest Park. It advocates for green spaces interspersed with residential and commercial buildings, promoting a healthy balance between urban living and nature. It pictures the area as a vibrant, livable neighborhood, where Portland's residents can work, live, and play, all while surrounded by nature.

Picture walkable neighborhoods connected by tree-lined paths, interspersed with patches of green that serve as communal spaces. Commercial areas, too, are reimagined as green buildings, incorporating elements such as green roofs, rainwater harvesting, and renewable energy systems. It also could address several challenges that modern cities grapple with, such as urban heat islands, stormwater runoff, air and noise pollution, and the alienation of residents from nature.

In contrast to the Centennial or Industrial themes, the Forest Park theme offers a dynamic, forward-thinking approach to the ESCO site's redevelopment. It recognizes and addresses the pressing concerns of the 21st century—climate change, urbanization, social inequality—while simultaneously enhancing the site's beauty and functionality.

As Portland finds itself at a critical juncture, the decisions made for the ESCO site will reverberate through future generations. The Forest Park theme presents a bold yet attainable vision that captures the essence of Portland: a city inextricably connected to its natural surroundings. It is an opportunity to bring the tranquility and beauty of Oregon's forests into the heart of the city.

MORE INFORMATION:

Montgomery Park to Hollywood Transit and Land Use Development Study

MP2H Northwest Plan Update

In the article, reporter Lucas Manfield presents a disturbing portrait of the escalating drug crisis in downtown Portland through the story of William Stevenson, a man repeatedly arrested for dealing hard drugs but continually released back onto the streets. This case exposes a glaring paradox at the heart of our progressive drug policies. As we work to dismantle the punitive legacy of the War on Drugs and shift towards a more equitable approach, have we unintentionally enabled a resurgence of the very problems we sought to eradicate?

Let's be clear. No one wants to see Stevenson—or anyone else—become a scapegoat for systemic issues or a victim of draconian drug laws. We've been down that road, and we've seen the destruction it wrought. But at the same time, it's critical to recognize that the narrative here is not just about Stevenson. It's about the communities left to grapple with the aftermath of his actions, and it's about the unintended consequences of well-meaning policies.

Drug dealing, while not always violent in its execution, generates a cycle of crime and disorder that indirectly fuels violence, property crimes, and, most devastatingly, fatal overdoses. The victims of these crimes are real people, often marginalized and vulnerable, living in neighborhoods already reeling from a myriad of social and economic challenges. When we allow drug dealers to return to the streets shortly after their arrest, we're not only failing to protect these communities but also implicitly suggesting that their safety is less important than the rights of the offenders.

Oregon's reform efforts to reduce the use of bail and dismantle discriminatory practices are commendable. But Stevenson’s case shows the grim reality of these reforms. He has managed to avoid any significant consequences for his actions through the payment of low bail amounts, which has permitted him to walk free time and again. This revolving door of justice undermines the rule of law, diminishes community faith in the justice system, and perpetuates an environment of fear and instability.

Moreover, the system's leniency is not doing Stevenson any favors. He, like countless others ensnared in the drug trade, is also a victim—of addiction, of economic circumstances, and of a society that has failed to provide him with viable alternatives. Releasing him back into the environment that fuels his addiction does little to disrupt the destructive cycle he's trapped in.

Ultimately, the tension lies in striking a balance between progressive reform and the preservation of law and order. This balance is crucial to maintaining the fabric of our communities and ensuring that our pursuit of social justice and equity doesn't inadvertently harm those we aim to protect.

This means we need to question our approach and acknowledge its shortcomings. It means refining our policies to ensure that they genuinely reflect the goals they espouse. And, most importantly, it means understanding that the true measure of our progress lies not in the policies we enact but in the realities we create.

In the end, our communities deserve both social justice and safety—they're two sides of the same coin. To dismiss or devalue one in favor of the other undermines the very essence of progressivism. We must learn from the Stevenson case and work towards creating drug policies that protect and uplift our communities, rather than perpetuating cycles of harm that disproportionately affect the most vulnerable among us.

https://www.wweek.com/news/2023/06/28/multnomah-county-courts-routinely-release-a-drug-dealer-back-to-the-same-downtown-corner/

The day was loaded with smells and sounds, featuring live music from local band The Mistons, an energetic performance from a drum corp, and an enthusiastic crowd participating in karaoke.

The star of the show, however, was the pizza, with a constant flow of their classic cheese and pepperoni pizza slices delighting patrons.

Rex and his owner, Michael Spence, were on their usual Sunday night run along Northwest 23rd Avenue, just north of Vaughn Street. Suddenly, a loose dog sprinted out of a nearby unsanctioned encampment and launched a savage attack.

According to Spence, the assailant was a pit bull that emerged without warning from a nearby camp. "The last thing I knew he was just on top of him, mauling him, biting him," Spence recalled to Fox 12. A man who seemed to be the pit bull's owner pulled the animal off Rex, but not before the damage had been done.

With Rex gravely injured, Spence scooped up his dog, ran a few blocks away and dialed 911, hoping for swift assistance. But the quick help Spence anticipated was not to come. Despite repeated assurances that someone would be dispatched to the scene, after waiting for 30 to 45 minutes, no one arrived.

As Rex's condition worsened, and help not coming, Spence was forced to abandon the scene and rush his beloved pet to the vet. The aftermath of the attack was grim. Rex was left with deep, 6 to 8 inch lacerations, and the attack had caused extensive damage to his blood vessels, leading to tissue death. This necessitated an immediate surgery to remove the dead tissue, followed by a second operation to close the wounds once healthy tissue had reformed.

Spence later reached out to Multnomah County Animal Control, frustrated at the lack of immediate action taken in response to the attack. Spence said the dispatcher told him it was not considered an active emergency because the attacking dog was now under the control of its owner. "If they wanted to protect us they would've come out immediately and found out where that dog was, and gotten it taken somewhere so he can't victimize another dog or a child," Spence told Fox 12.

Multnomah County Animal Control confirmed in a statement that they received and recorded the complaint and assigned an officer to investigate the aggressive dog and its owner. However, it was explained that an animal control officer was not sent immediately because it was after hours, and the incident was not deemed an emergency.

Spence says that the encampment from where the pit bull had charged is located on NW 23rd, just one and a half blocks north of Dutch Brothers, at the intersection of NW 23rd and NW York Street.

Rex is now on a slow but steady path to recovery. Spence's focus now is on Rex's healing and the enormous medical bills that have piled up due to Rex's life-saving treatments. The cost of the surgeries and subsequent follow-up appointments are estimated to be around $15,000. To offset the financial burden, Spence has set up a GoFundMe page, "Lifesaving Surgery for Rex."

The page, narrated from Rex's perspective, tells his story: "Woof woof. My name is Rex and last week a very mean dog attacked me and left me with serious injuries." It ends with a heartfelt plea, "If you can help share my story or contribute to the treatment my dad got me, it will help me get better so he and I can make more memories together."

In the wake of the horrific incident, Michael Spence and Rex's journey forward is marked by bravery, endurance, and an unyielding bond. The scars of this trauma will serve as both a stark reminder of the tragedy and a testament to their shared resilience. The costs are high, and the road to recovery is long, but it's a path they tread together, leaning on each other and the community's support.

Rex told NW Portland News, “Rex has been through a lot and he’s more than my dog, he’s my best friend.”

MORE INFORMATION:

https://www.gofundme.com/f/rexs-attack-vet?member=27449511

https://www.kptv.com/2023/06/13/multnomah-county-animal-control-investigating-dog-attack-northwest-portland/

The Northwest Neighborhood Cultural Center (NNCC), a revered 112-year-old structure at 1819 NW Everett St, was targeted early Saturday morning on June 24th by unknown assailants with a Molotov cocktail. Portland Fire & Rescue (PF&R) arson investigators are investigating the attack, which targeted the building's front door.

Arson investigators have yet to identify any suspects in the attack. Investigators also noted a second fire at the building's east door. That blaze seems to have self-extinguished at an unknown time, and is not known if it was a part of the front door attack or a separate incident. In addition, a car was set ablaze in the back parking lot, the scorched husk of which has been tagged by both graffiti artists and by a PBOT warning sticker.

Independent journalist Brandon Farley filmed the chaotic scene late last Friday night as Portland Fire & Rescue worked to extinguish the blaze. The images and video of the aftermath spread across social media, sparking widespread concern among local residents.

In response to the attack, fencing has been erected around the property. A restoration contractor has been removing water-damaged material left behind by a triggered internal fire-suppression sprinkler system. However, a pile of debris stacked against the north wall of the building has caused alarm among neighbors due to its potential as a new fire target by the still to be identified arsonist.

Adding to the unfolding drama is the fact that the NNCC is in the process of being sold to a Las Vegas real estate developer for $4.75 million in cash. The developer intends to transform the historic building and property into a boutique hotel, a project mired in bureaucratic delays stemming from the City of Portland.

Under the terms of extended financing for the sale, the developer has agreed to be responsible for the security of the building. The NNCC is currently receiving $50,000 per month from the developer, money that many argue could and should be used to bolster security efforts. However, this does not appear to be the case, further exacerbating the building's vulnerability.

This protracted sale process, paired with the arson attack, has led to tensions and concerns among community members. The lack of a custodian for the building, coupled with perceived inattention from both the NNCC's all-volunteer Board and the Las Vegas developer, has stirred fears that this vital piece of Portland's cultural heritage is in danger.

Securing financing is a significant hurdle for the developer. One obstacle appears to stem from the slow and winding bureaucracy of the City of Portland. A document from the NNCC acquired by Northwest Portland News states, "Securing financing has proven challenging because building permits will be part of the collateral for the buyer’s loan.” In a meeting between the developer and the Portland Bureau of Development Services, the City delivered 47 pages of notes and questions as a preliminary early-assistance effort to “help” the developer acquire the needed permits. The developers maintain that they hope to surmount these challenges by this fall, positioning them to pull the building permits and close on the financing package.

If successfully concluded, the sale will create a fund called the "Northwest Neighborhoods Fund of the Oregon Community Foundation." The fund, generated by the net sale proceeds, aims to provide long-term benefits to the local neighborhoods from which NNCC draws its members. Specifically, the neighborhoods of Arlington Heights, Goose Hollow, Hillside, Linnton, NW Industrial (NINA), and NW District (NWDA) are set to benefit from the fund.

Constructed in 1911 as a Christian Science Church, the building’s design was penned by architect Solon S. Beman. It was acquired by the NNCC in the late 1970s, serving as a social service center and later a cultural center for the local community. The building most recently had been home to the Northwest Children's Theater and School.

The future, however, hangs in the balance as a sleepy NNCC Board and an out-of-town developer face-off with a still at-large arsonist. As the arson investigation continues and the sale remains in a state of flux, the fate of this iconic building hangs in the balance.

MORE INFORMATION:

https://nnccpdx.com/

https://capacitycommercial.com/properties/?propertyId=708537-sale

EFNY has served the city since 1983, establishing itself as a distinctive landmark on the bustling 23rd Avenue. The business, known for its narrow counter and a pair of outdoor tables, has gained a reputation for its classic cheese and pepperoni pizzas. Its iconic servings are a constant crowd-puller, often seen extending off paper plates, tantalizingly hot and tempting for every passerby.

Phil Geffner, the owner of EFNY, is a New York native who brought the thin-crust, New York-style pizza, a feature Portland hadn't seen until the pizzeria's establishment. For Geffner, this journey was less about a business venture and more about a social commitment to feed his friends. His philosophy around pizza is simple: "It's dough, sauce, and cheese. That's it."

The pizzeria, often hailed as "the elder statesman of local pie-slingers," by critics, has not only preserved its authentic New York vibes but also its strong principles. Geffner resisted serving salads, offering delivery services, or accepting credit and debit cards for over 30 years.

The pizzeria's significance in Portland's culinary scene is undeniable. In 2013 and 2018, it was ranked in the top five of The Oregonian's lists of Portland's best pizza-by-the-slice. Portland Mercury's Chad Walsh once noted, "With its 'no ranch' ethos and walls covered in photos of the past three-plus decades, it's definitely the best place to grab a slice."

Alex Frane, in Thrillist's 2020 overview of "The Absolute Best Pizza in Portland," wrote, "Fact: Escape has the most authentic New York slices in the city." Nathan Williams, in Eater Portland's 2021 overview of "Where to Grab Pizza by the Slice in and Around Portland," described EFNY as "the real deal, complete with service that is more New York-brusque than Portland-passive."

Even as it basks in praise, EFNY remains rooted in its ethos of treating everyone the same. From power brokers to celebrities to regular Joes, Geffner insists on giving the same brusque, fast-paced service common in New York, making no distinction between patrons. This spirit of equity has undoubtedly played a part in their 40-year success.

As the pizzeria approaches its milestone anniversary, Geffner reflects on his journey with gratitude. His business, which began on a shoestring budget, has given him a community and an opportunity to help others. He is proud of the business he built, "It feeds your soul," he says, a sentiment that is perhaps the true secret ingredient in each slice of EFNY pizza.

Escape from New York Pizza is located at 622 NW 23rd Avenue, Portland, OR 97210, between Hoyt and Irving. This Monday, you can join the celebration and taste the soul that Geffner and his team have been putting into their pizza for four decades.

More information: https://efnypizza.net/

The open house will provide an insight into what's been happening within the Northwest Parking District, including discussions around key topics such as parking permit alterations, intersection enhancement projects, and the ambitious Montgomery Park Transit Project.

The NW Parking District Stakeholder Advisory Committee

The NW Parking District Stakeholder Advisory Committee, a collective body made up of fellow residents, business owners, and district employees, provides guidance to the Portland Bureau of Transportation (PBOT) staff on transportation and parking matters. The open house presents a unique opportunity to meet with these committee members.

In recent discussions, the Advisory Committee recommended a series of changes for the 2023 Zone M Parking Permit. Despite the committee's suggestion to gradually increase the Zone M permit pricing to $1,200/year, PBOT’s Commissioner Mingus Mapps decided to postpone the increase. The 2023 permit cost will be $202.50, up from the current $195.

New applicants for the Zone M permit could also face eligibility changes if they have off-street parking. For residents of buildings that secured a certificate of occupancy before August 7, 2013, the number of resident permits per address or unit could reduce by the count of legal, park-able off-street parking spaces.

A permit cap of 0.3 permits/unit is also on the horizon for buildings that obtained a certificate of occupancy post August 7, 2013. These measures reflect an ongoing commitment to effectively manage parking resources in the district.

Montgomery Park Transit Project

Another highlight of the open house will be the proposed Montgomery Park Transit Project. The plan includes extending the Portland Streetcar to the Montgomery Park office building in Northwest Portland and entails a complete rebuild of NW 23rd Avenue from Lovejoy to Vaughn.

The project emerged from the multi-year planning effort Montgomery Park to Hollywood (MP2H), which also considers potential land-use changes near the Montgomery Park office building to encourage mixed-use, transit-oriented development of new housing choices, employment, and commercial uses on the vacant former ESCO site.

The financial burden of this project might fall on the shoulders of property owners, businesses, and residents living near the proposed extension, through a mechanism known as a Local Improvement District (LID). The LID approach requires property owners to share the cost of infrastructure improvements. Northwest property owners could be on the hook for tens of millions of dollars in increased property taxes triggered by the LID. This would also, no doubt, increase commercial and residential rents in the affected area.

Intersection Enhancements on NW 21st and 23rd Avenues

Also on the agenda is the NW 21st and 23rd Avenue Intersection Enhancement Project. The City of Portland is upgrading intersections between NW Johnson and Flanders streets in a bid to increase efficiency and safety. This project dovetails with recommendations from the Northwest in Motion plan and is being coordinated with the Bureau of Environmental Services (BES) Lower Northwest Sewer and Stormwater Project, underscoring a multidimensional approach to city infrastructure development.

This open house underscores the Northwest Parking District's commitment to a participatory approach in managing Portland's transportation and parking resources. As the district continues to grow and evolve, such interactions are key to ensuring decisions meet the needs and expectations of the community.

More Information:
https://www.portland.gov/transportation/parking/nw-parking-openhouse2023

https://www.portland.gov/transportation/parking/northwest-parking-district/sac/events/2023/6/20/northwest-parking-district

https://luckylab.com/quimby-2020/

The committee's decision, reached in a May 17 meeting that included 30 minutes of public comment from neighbors vehemently opposing the proposed hike, was to raise the permit fees from $195 to $279 this September, and to $363 the following year. The committee had been on track to ultimately raise the permit fees to $1,200 per year.

However, in a direct challenge to the committee's decision, Commissioner Mapps, in his capacity as head of the Portland Bureau of Transportation (PBOT), has decided to forgo the proposed increase in rates.

In a memo released by Wendy Cawley, PBOT’s Interim Deputy Director, she wrote, "Thank you for your careful consideration of changes to Zone M permits and for hearing the constituent testimony given at your last meeting. Due to the focus in City Hall on minimizing costs to Portlanders, Portland Bureau of Transportation’s (PBOT) Commissioner Mingus Mapps has decided to delay a surcharge increase at this time."

Cawley's memo also included details on the revised rate plan, which sees a modest increase in the base rate by 10% for cost recovery, leading to a 2023 permit cost of $202.50, up from the current $195. This amount consists of the $82.50 base rate plus a $120 surcharge.

The move by Commissioner Mapps to reject the steep fee increase comes as a relief to the residents of the neighborhood. By keeping costs down during these difficult times, it brings to light the city's commitment to easing the financial burden on its residents, and reinforces the importance of public input in influencing policy decisions. The modest increase in permit cost for 2023, although an increase, pales in comparison to the originally proposed fees, signaling a win for the community.

Recognized as the oldest continuously operating public rose test garden in the United States, the IRTG exemplifies Portland's affectionate nickname, "City of Roses." The garden not only showcases an astonishing diversity of roses but also acts as an important testing ground for new rose varieties, sent from breeders around the globe.

"In the spring, we receive an influx of new rose cultivars," says one of the garden's staffers, "Each of these roses are evaluated on several characteristics including disease resistance, bloom formation, color, and fragrance."

The garden is a collective effort maintained by three paid staffers and a multitude of volunteers. It also serves as one of eleven American Garden Rose Selections test sites in the U.S., with breeders and distributors typically donating about 2,500 roses per year.

Sometimes, visitors have the opportunity to view roses a year or two before they are officially introduced to the market. Yet, the majority of roses at the IRTG are commercially available. An inventory provided by the garden aids visitors in identifying the names and locations of all roses.

Historically, Portland's love affair with roses dates back to 1888 when Georgiana Burton Pittock, wife of publisher Henry Pittock, established the Portland Rose Society after inviting friends and neighbors to exhibit their roses in a tent in her garden.

This infatuation bloomed into a city-wide spectacle by 1905 when Portland boasted 200 miles of rose-bordered streets. The breathtaking sight attracted visitors from across the country to the Lewis and Clark Centennial celebration and solidified Portland's identity as the 'City of Roses'.

The genesis of the IRTG can be traced back to 1915 when Jesse A. Currey, rose hobbyist and Sunday editor of the Oregon Journal, suggested the establishment of a rose test garden. Amid the tumultuous period of World War I, the garden was seen as a sanctuary for hybrid roses from Europe, shielding them from potential destruction from the bombings.

Since its inception, the IRTG has seen the addition of numerous award-winning rose varieties, including those crowned with the prestigious title of "Portland’s Best Rose." This honor, introduced in 1996, is awarded annually in June after rose experts from around the world select the best rose from thousands of submissions.

Accessibility to the IRTG is facilitated through various means, including the TriMet bus route 63-Washington Park, and the Washington Park Shuttle, a free service connecting the Rose Garden to the MAX light rail at the Washington Park station. Parking is also available at a cost of $2 per hour, with a daily maximum of $8.

As we move deeper into June, the peak blooming season, the International Rose Test Garden is poised to once again inspire awe among visitors, reminding us of the enduring beauty of the rose and Portland's deep-rooted love for this timeless bloom.

MORE INFORMATION: https://www.portland.gov/parks/washington-park-international-rose-test-garden

Slated to break ground in 2026, the project stands as a monument to modern transportation planning: a 1.3-mile extension to the Montgomery Park office building, with a “100% off-wire” leg, free of the overhead wires and poles that traditionally mar electrified streetcar transportation.

But every coin has two sides. Northwest 23rd Avenue, a veritable hub of commerce, is staring down the barrel of significant disruption during the proposed reconstruction. When the machinery roars to life, numerous businesses face an uncertain future. Worse still, the financial burden of this operation will be partly shouldered by the property owners, businesses, and residents themselves, through a mechanism known as a Local Improvement District (LID).

The LID approach requires property owners to share the cost of infrastructure improvements, financed over a span of 20 years. Northwest property owners could be on the hook for tens of millions of dollars in increased property taxes triggered by the LID. This would also, no doubt, increase commercial and residential rents in the affected area.

Since its inception, the financial burden of the Portland Streetcar has been a source of intense criticism. Dr. Eric Fruits from Portland State University likens streetcars to a luxury vehicle - a visual treat but an economic nightmare. “Whenever I see one of the streetcars I think, 'Wow, that's really cute, but it's also really expensive,’” said Dr. Fruits in a 2013 interview. “It's the same thing I would say if I saw someone driving a Bentley. That's a good-looking car, but it's really expensive and I can't afford it.”

The slow speed of the Portland Streetcar is another common criticism. In 2013, The Oregonian columnist Joseph Rose decided to see if he could walk faster than the Portland Streetcar from OMSI to Powell's Books, and handily won. Joseph wrote after the contest: "After lacing up my $50 sneakers and going toe-to-track with the $8.5 million-a-year Portland Streetcar, I’m thinking the city’s oh-so-generically named trolley system should be rebranded the Stumptown Slug."

Despite the flak the Stumptown Slug has drawn over the years, Portland Streetcar's journey is a testament to endurance. What began as a modest 2.4-mile line connecting Portland State University to NW 23rd Avenue on July 20, 2001, has blossomed into a vast network spanning three lines around 16 miles of the city's Central City. The service, though often maligned, has soldiered on for the past 20 years, funded by a mix of TriMet funding, user fares, city parking revenue, and property tax assessments via "Local Improvement Districts."

The Montgomery Park Extension isn't just about extending a transportation mode however. The project promises to create new job opportunities and develop thousands of new housing units in Northwest Portland. But who is really set to benefit from this?

An investigative study titled "The Purpose, Function, and Performance of Streetcar Transit in the Modern U.S. City" suggests that local development and business interests use streetcar development secondarily for transportation, and primarily as a catalyst for urban development. Streetcar systems function as a symbol of a permanent public commitment to an area.

The proposed extension leads directly through the former ESCO Steel site - a post-industrial wasteland with generally abandoned terrain. The land owners have no current zoning compatible with, nor public development plans drawn for, a mixed-use residential area as outlined in the Streetcar plan. Zoning changes are a large part of the vision, though none have been actually changed by the city. A new streetcar line would most likely catalyze zoning updates, which brings the city’s probable intention into focus: development of the barren landscape. More specifically, development of the barren landscape prodded by a streetcar extension heavily financed by property owners in the adjacent, but distant, NW Alphabet District.

Looking closer at the other beneficiaries, the current owners of Montgomery Park, Unico Properties, stand to gain significantly from the streetcar extension. The company boldly claims on their website that, "As a trusted leader in private real estate for almost 70 years, Unico Properties delivers dynamic returns and sustainable development by maximizing every value-add opportunity." The Montgomery Park Streetcar Extension indeed looks to be a very lucrative value-add opportunity.

In this context, the Montgomery Park Streetcar Extension raises more questions than it answers. Is it an innovative solution for urban transportation and development, or is it merely a means for land interests to profit, while the city's residents shoulder the costs? Like the tracks themselves, the answer remains winding and complex.

Corrections:

Unico Properties owns the 18-acre Montgomery Park property. The former ESCO Steel site was purchased in 2019 by a group of local developers.

Historically, black bears have been observed in Forest Park infrequently, roughly once or twice every decade. The last notable sighting dates back to 1986 when a volunteer trail worker reported observing a sow black bear with two cubs. There were several reports of a black bear in the early 1990s, possibly the same individual. Since then, bear sightings within the park boundaries have been sparse, with just two documented sightings near the northwest park boundary from 2003 to 2006.

The park does provide sustenance for bears, such as shoots, berries, small mammals, birds, ants, and fungi. However, most years see no signs of bears in the park.

With these unexpected sightings, the public must be aware of how to react if they encounter a bear. Do not panic, most bears are naturally inclined to avoid humans. Make noise when in an area with known bear activity. Once a bear notices you, identify yourself calmly, stand still, and wave your arms slowly. Do not imitate bear sounds or make a high-pitched squeal, as this may provoke an attack.

Pick up small children immediately, and do not run or climb a tree. Bears can outrun and outclimb humans. Traveling in groups can make you more noticeable to bears, reducing the chances of an encounter. Always leave an escape route for the bear and make yourself look larger to deter the bear. Avoid direct eye contact, as it may be perceived as a threat.

In the rare event of a bear attack, do not play dead. Escape to a secure place if possible. If escape is not an option, fight back, aiming for the bear's face and muzzle. Carrying bear pepper spray when exploring Forest Park could be a useful deterrent against an aggressive bear.

Anyone who sees a bear should report the sighting immediately to the ODFW Sauvie Island Office at (503) 621-3488. It's crucial to remember that bears play an important role in our ecosystem. It is our responsibility to respect their space and ensure both their safety and ours.

These recent bear sightings serve as an urgent reminder that even within urban environments, we share our space with wildlife. It's essential to stay alert when visiting Forest Park and to take these guidelines seriously for your safety and the safety of our shared wildlife.

Boxelder bugs, the benign creatures known to alarm residents with their propensity to mass on home exteriors, are re-emerging from their overwintering sites later than anticipated and in bigger numbers due to the sudden warm weather after a chilly spring.

In spring, boxelder bugs re-emerge to feed and mate, quickly boosting their population. Experts say that the insects are harmless. To keep the bugs at bay, homeowners are advised to seal cracks and crevices and repair any damages to window screens.

Exclusion remains the most recommended course of action, with vacuuming as the preferred method of dealing with bugs that have already entered the home. Even though chemical treatments are available, they are rarely more effective than vacuuming and should be applied by licensed applicators, if needed.

While the May surge of boxelder bugs has been unsettling for many Northwest Portland homeowners, experts reiterate their benign nature. Even as the bugs adjust their cycle, their impact remains minimal and primarily a nuisance. As we move into the summer months, residents can expect to see a decline in the boxelder bug population.

The proposal, put forward by Rick Williams Consulting, identifies excessive on-street parking permits as a primary source of parking constraint in the NW district. The consulting firm argues that the increased demand for these permits has not only limited access for other user groups such as customers and visitors, but has also contributed to the area's congestion problem, causing visitors to circle blocks while searching for available parking.

The proposed increase aims to rectify this issue by bringing the price of residential parking in line with other modes of transportation, thereby establishing a more equitable system. The plan envisages a gradual increase that would match the cost of an annual TriMet pass by 2035, according to the Target/Goal-Base Pricing Chart.

Rick Williams Consulting, hired by PBOT to study the issue, posits that the current annual on-street parking permit fee of $195 is significantly underpriced. This undervaluation, they suggest, does a disservice to one of the most congested neighborhood/business districts in Portland. By setting permit pricing on par with the cost of an annual transit pass, the firm believes residential on-street parking and transit access can be placed on equal footing.

However, the sudden announcement of this potentially significant hike has stirred concerns among local residents. For many, the proposed rate is not just prohibitive, but could have severe implications on their daily lives and routines. The potential burden of such a dramatic increase has raised questions about the affordability of living in the district and the impact on the neighborhood's overall vitality.

The NW Parking SAC, which is tasked with advising the City on transportation and parking issues, is at the heart of this critical decision. Balancing their mission to support a full range of transportation options with the goals of maintaining neighborhood livability and economic vitality, this decision could shape the future of the district.

The committee recognizes the importance of community input in shaping policy decisions that directly impact the residents, and time for public comment has been made available, as it is for every meeting.

The upcoming meeting, to be held on May 17, 2023, at 4:30 pm, is a pivotal opportunity for community members to voice their thoughts and concerns. The meeting will be held via ZOOM, and interested parties can join at the link listed at the bottom of the page.

As the vote draws near, the stakes are high for the residents of Zone M. This decision has the potential to not only alter the cost of parking but could also significantly influence the district's overall livability and economic vitality. With this in mind, it is crucial for residents to engage in the process, attend the meeting, and make their voices heard. The outcome of this vote will undoubtedly set a precedent for future policy decisions, making community involvement more important than ever.

• MEETING MATERIALS: https://www.portland.gov/transportation/parking/northwest-parking-district/sac/documents/may-17-committee-meeting-materials/download

• ZOOM LINK:

  https://zoom.us/j/95535551322?pwd=OWZBd1NnM1htNXJoQzVFZEl5TzNBUT09

Central Precinct officers swiftly responded to reports of the shooting and found two victims at the scene, a male and a female. Despite officers' efforts to administer trauma first aid and CPR, the male victim succumbed to his life-threatening injuries. Emergency Medical Services (EMS) personnel also attempted to provide additional life-saving measures, but the man was pronounced dead at the scene.

The female victim was transported to a nearby hospital by ambulance. Her injuries are not believed to be life-threatening.

The suspect or suspects involved in the shooting fled the scene before police arrived, and no arrests have been made thus far. The Portland Police Homicide Unit Detectives have taken over the investigation and are gathering evidence.

Authorities are urging anyone with information about this incident to contact Detective Erik Kammerer at Erik.Kammerer@police.portlandoregon.gov or 503-823-0762, or Detective Mike Schmerber at Michael.Schmerber@police.portlandoregon.gov or 503-823-0991. When providing information, please reference case number 23-110484.

MORE INFO: https://www.portlandoregon.gov/police/news/read.cfm?id=482848

Owner Leah Orndoff spoke with NW Portland News about her enthusiasm for the upcoming opening: "We are moving right along over here with the highest hopes of a May 15th open. We are so excited to be in the neighborhood and will still offer lots of deli favorites like fresh bagels, lox and cream cheese, Matzo ball soup everyday, and hot pastrami sandwiches." The anticipation for Henry Higgins Bagels is building, and locals are eager to welcome this new addition to the culinary scene.

As stated on their website, Henry Higgins Bagels is dedicated to providing Portland with traditional NY-style boiled bagels, freshly prepared each day using a combination of Shepard's Grain flour and Bob's Red Mill flour and seeds. This meticulous attention to detail and commitment to quality ensures that customers will enjoy an authentic bagel experience.

Though this will be their first location in our Northwest neighborhood, Henry Higgins Bagels is no stranger to the Portland area, with an already established presence on Foster Road. The shop's popularity among locals can be attributed to their delightful menu that combines the best of a classic New York bagel with the warm, welcoming atmosphere of a Portland neighborhood.

As the community mourns the loss of Kornblatt's Deli, the arrival of Henry Higgins Bagels offers a glimmer of hope for the future. Their dedication to preserving deli favorites, while simultaneously crafting their own unique niche, ensures that they will fit right into the fabric of Portland's diverse culinary landscape.

MORE INFO: https://www.hhboiledbagels.com/

PORTLAND, Ore. — Food Front Cooperative Grocery, a cherished local grocery co-op, has announced its closure in a somber letter to its members. The decision comes after years of financial struggles and a continued decline in profits, leaving the co-op unable to sustain its operations.

In the letter, the board of directors shared several significant announcements:

1. General Manager Micheal Balanoff has tendered his resignation.

2. Without a General Manager, and in accordance with the bylaws and the Collective Bargaining Agreement with Union Local 555, Food Front does not have a path forward.

3. The board has decided to collectively step down once a newly elected board is in place.

To ensure all Food Front staff are paid for their work and PTO, the store closed its doors on Monday, April 24th, at 12 noon. The board encouraged members to shop one last time and thank the loyal staff.

In the letter, the board also suggested possible strategies for moving forward, including reopening the store with new financing and restructuring, selling the property with an option to lease it back, or selling the property outright and dividing the remaining earnings among the membership.

Food Front Cooperative Grocery, located in Northwest Portland, has been a staple of the community for over 45 years. Known for its commitment to local, organic, and sustainable products, the co-op has long been a popular destination for shoppers seeking high-quality, environmentally-conscious groceries.

MORE INFO: https://foodfront.coop/docs/download/Closing_Letter_to_FF_Members.pdf

PORTLAND, OR - In anticipation of Earth Day, the Portland Bureau of Transportation (PBOT), Lyft, and Nike have announced a 33% expansion of the BIKETOWN bike-share fleet, which will add 500 bikes for a total of 2,000. About 200 new e-bikes will be available immediately, with the fleet expected to reach its full size over the summer.

The expansion follows the service area's growth in January 2022, and aims to meet the rising demand for bike-sharing. In 2022, BIKETOWN reached a record of over 575,000 rides, a 65% increase from the previous year, and is on track to surpass that record in 2023.

BIKETOWN, known for its distinct orange e-bikes, is a partnership between founding partner and title sponsor Nike, Lyft (the largest bike-share operator in the nation), and PBOT, which manages the city's transportation system.

To celebrate Earth Day, Nike is offering a free BIKETOWN ride on Saturday, April 22, and has partnered with Lyft to add 30 Earth Day bikes to the system, featuring depictions of beloved local landmarks. A new BIKETOWN station, made with 25% Nike Grind rubber from the company's footwear manufacturing scraps, was also unveiled at the press conference announcing the expansion.

Transportation Commissioner Mingus Mapps celebrated the expansion at the Urban Plaza at Portland State University, emphasizing the importance of the public-private partnership with BIKETOWN in helping Downtown Portland recover from the pandemic and providing sustainable transportation options.

Lyft General Manager for BIKETOWN Kanika Agrawal and Nike's Senior Director of North America Social & Community Impact Matt Geschke also expressed their enthusiasm for the expansion, praising the partnership's role in promoting sustainable transportation and increasing access to sport and movement for everyone.

BIKETOWN's growing ridership is attributed to the popularity of its 100% e-bike fleet, the expansion of the service area, and the BIKETOWN for All equity program, which serves low-income Portlanders, high school students, and college students who qualify for financial aid. In 2022, BIKETOWN for All members accounted for around 35% of all rides, with over 200,000 rides on e-bikes.

The BIKETOWN fleet expansion is a testament to the program's commitment to providing sustainable, accessible transportation options for the Portland community, and is sure to contribute to a greener, more bike-friendly city.

More: PBOT and Lyft announce BIKETOWN fleet expansion to 2,000 e-bikes