 Cleveland Groundbreaking
This afternoon I attended the Cleveland Modernization Groundbreaking Ceremony, where Portland Public Schools and the community were celebrating the school’s past and looking to its future. Plans include a new, modern Cleveland High School that will include a student health center, two new theaters, two new gymnasiums, dedicated dance and wrestling studios, and other elements intended to support learning and connections.
After a wonderful land acknowledgement from Laurelhurst school councilor Ms. Trueblood, I enjoyed hearing from PPS leadership, school staff, and student leaders, and participating in the shovel turn. This project is an investment in our students and the community, and will have a positive impact for decades. Pictured along with Ms. Trueblood are Representative Rob Nosse and Cleveland school counselor Heidi Tolentino.
 Loving Day
Happy Loving Day!
Today marks the anniversary of the landmark 1967 U.S. Supreme Court decision in Loving v. Virginia, which unanimously struck down laws banning interracial marriage and affirmed the right to love and marry across racial lines.
Every June 12, we remember Mildred and Richard Loving, whose courage in challenging unjust laws helped expand freedom and dignity for families across our country. After being criminally charged simply for marrying one another, they were forced to leave their home state of Virginia to avoid imprisonment. Their fight changed history.
As a multiracial person, this day carries special meaning for me, and I know it resonates with many members of our community. Last night, I was honored to join my Head of Staff, Mary Li, for a panel discussion following a screening of The Loving Story. The event, hosted by the Black Affinity Group, was a meaningful opportunity to reflect on the Lovings’ legacy and the ongoing work of building a more inclusive and equitable society. Here’s to celebrating love, family, and the people whose courage helps move us closer to justice!
Moda Center Survey & Pop-ups
Let City Council know your perspective on the Moda Center negotiations! Please take a moment to fill out the survey at Portland.gov/Moda-Survey. The survey is open through Thursday, June 18. Public input is so important in this process!
Also, come talk to us! City Councilors will be attending a series of Moda Center pop-up community engagement sessions.
I’ll be at both District 3 pop-ups this Sunday, June 14:
- 12:00-1:30 pm in Laurelhurst Park at the playground at SE 38th and Stark St
- 3:00-4:30 pm at Mt Scott Park at the playground area at SE 72nd Ave and Reedway St
Other Districts:
- District 1 - Sat, June 13: Lents Park from 12-1:30 pm & Parklane Park from 3:00-4:30 pm
- District 2 - Sat, June 13: McCoy Park from 12-1:30 pm & Irving Park from 3:00-4:30 pm
- District 4 - Sun, June 14: Sellwood Park from 12-1:30 pm & Tom McCall from 3:00-4:30 pm
The weather is going to be hot this weekend, so please make sure you come prepared with light clothing, water, sunscreen, hats, and whatever else you need to stay safe and comfortable. The City will be providing water and Otter Pops/popsicles until they run out. If you can't make it due to weather or other engagements, please be sure to fill out the survey: Portland.gov/Moda-Survey. Your voice matters and I’d love to hear from you!
No Kings Portland will be hosting a “Make America Fair” from 1 to 5 p.m. this Sunday, June 14 at Laurelhurst Park. The educational event focused on protecting elections will feature circus performers, carnival games, and tabling organizations. It is free and open to all.
The Division Clinton Business District is exploring an Enhanced Services District (ESD). An ESD is a community-powered funding tool that lets local business and property owners pool resources to invest in improvements that are decided as a group. An ESD could fund marketing and events, cleaning crews, infrastructure support and more. To learn more you can email Nick (Executive Director) at nick@divisionclintonpdx.com, or join a listening session: 7 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, June 17 (virtual, register herel); 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, June 23 (in person, register here); 7 to 8 pm Monday, June 29 (virtual, register here); and 7 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, July 8 (in person, register here)
Baby Blues Connection is offering a Grumpy Little Walk at 10 a.m. Thursday, June 18 at Mt Tabor Park’s Community Garden, 6001-6399 SE Lincoln St. The event is open to all and is stroller friendly. You can learn more and RSVP here.
The Human Access Project will host a presentation on a proposed solution to harmful algae blooms in Ross Island Lagoon from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Thursday, June 25 at Alberta Abbey, 126 NE Alberta St. You can learn more and register for the free presentation here.
The Safe Blocks Program, within the City’s Office of Violence Prevention, is accepting proposals for placemaking projects/street paintings in the Eliot neighborhood. The projects are in partnership with the Portland Bureau of Transportation and Arc-en-Ciel Montessori. A total of $50,000 is available. The deadline to apply is June 29, 2026 at 4 pm. https://www.portland.gov/community-safety/ovp/safe-blocks/eliot-placemaking
Extreme Heat Watch
Our region is expecting dangerously hot conditions this weekend. Temperatures are predicted to hit 90+ degrees on Saturday and reach up to 100 degrees from Sunday morning through Monday evening.
Please take care of yourselves and your loved ones (including pets!), and if you are able, check on your neighbors to help them make a plan to get somewhere cool.
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