It seems we’re having the same conversations and conflicts over how to deal with homelessness across the city. And nowhere is that conflict more clear than in Montavilla.

Even if you disagree with someone’s stance, I think it’s worth respecting the fact that they’re taking the time to get involved. I hope we can keep the conversation going and find some solutions.

A group of neighbors are calling for a more compassionate response to homelessness in Portland. The Oregonian covered the story here, and the direct link to their list of suggestions is here.

The Oregonian article also explores the conflicting approaches to homelessness Portland neighbors are requesting.

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The draft of the proposed Lents Neighborhood Association bylaws is here.

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Portland Police Bureau‘s Sgt. Randy Teig is leaving his position on the Neighborhood Response Team, leading some neighborhood advocates to be concerned about the future of the livability initiatives he’s been spearheading in East Portland neighborhoods.

FRIDAY

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“First Friday is here again! The subject of this months First Friday Newsletter is Exuviae, or the shell an insect leaves behind as it grows. Just as the vibrant colors of fall mark the cyclical progression of the seasons, so too do our own personal transformations contain beauty despite the difficulties of change. Festivals…

A collaboration between First Friday PDX and the East Creative Collective, the First Friday Street Exhibition is a free event that takes place on the First Friday of every month from May to October. Featuring the work of local artists and vendors, the street exhibition provides visitors and patrons access to the independent Portland artists of the South East Industrial Arts District, as well as live music, and dance.”

First Friday Art Walk, along SE Madison St, between 2nd and 3rd Ave * 6 pm – 9 pm

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DC National Cyber Security Awareness Event:

“October is National Cyber Security Awareness Month. Look for our Downtown Center event.

Play a game and win a prize. Find out whether your online identity is as safe as you think; Get information on how to protect your identity online and learn how to protect your mobile devices from viruses. Stop by and get to know your Information Security team.”

Event Contact Info: tracy.walstead@pcc.edu

Downtown Center, Rose Room, 722 SW 2nd Ave * 1 pm – 3 pm

SATURDAY

67th Annual Portland Greek Festival:

“After six decades, The Greek Festival has become one of the largest festivals of its kind, sharing our Greek Orthodox faith and rich culture with over 15,000 guests annually. The festival is an iconic event in the Portland Metropolitan area and has been designated as an Oregon Heritage Tradition by the Oregon Heritage Commission. Each year a portion of proceeds from the festival go toward worthy philanthropic endeavors in the greater Portland community.”

There will be a RAFFLE too, click here to participate and you might win a trip to Greece or other prizes.

Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral, 3131 NE Glisan St * 10 am – 10 pm

SUNDAY

Lents International Farmers Market:

“Portland’s only internationally focused market, LIFM provides fresh, affordable, and culturally unique produce to the diverse Lents community and offers farm-direct sales opportunities for immigrant, emerging farmers, and new business owners. In addition to standard market produce, the market features a variety of unique fresh produce from Hmong, Latino, & Russian farmers.”

SE 92nd and Reedway between Foster and Harold * 9 am – 2 pm