At the September 10 meeting, WENA members were reminded of the series of "neighborhood meetings...[scheduled by Portland Public Library as] part of its ongoing planning process." Members were encouraged to attend the Reiche meeting and at least one other (see calendar), in order to ensure cross-representation of neighborhoods and City-wide discussion. Those present expressed willingness to attend the meetings but restated the need for further dialogue with library administrators and trustees as part of the promised year of systemic planning with community input.

Several residents from Dow Street and Horton Place reported ongoing problems with drug dealing, violence and generally unsafe conditions. They asked how loitering and other unsavory behaviors could be controlled, both on their streets and in the nearby 7-11 parking lot. After some discussion of Portland's "hot spot" ordinance, needed improvements to the area by Public Services and other measures, District 2 Councilor Dave Marshall promised to meet with the residents to develop strategies for addressing the problems.

Other neighbors reported problems with young men gathering on the Reiche soccer field and basketball court. Some of the concerns were noise, gambling, possible drug dealing and unruly crowds. Complainants worried that their concerns might be interpreted as racist, as most or all of the young men abusing the grounds appear to be immigrants of color. Dave Marshall, Community Policing organizer Sarah Colton and the police officers present reassured them and promised to monitor the situation and work with neighborhood residents.

John Navarra shared information about an upcoming fundraiser for Portland West. THINK. GO. GET IT: A Race Across Portland is scheduled for October 18. The event will be a City-wide scavenger hunt filled with trivia, exercise, friendly competition, challenge and fun. Check the calendar for more information.

Assisted by an anonymous donation, WENA has agreed to co-sponsor another competitive event scheduled for October 19, the Reiche International 5K, a run through Portland's West End in celebration of Reiche School and its internationally diverse student body. All ages and speeds are welcome. See the calendar for more information.

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Photos courtesy of Greater Portland Landmarks