Put your talents to work by joining the media team as editor for Concordia News. Provide a vital function for the monthly paper serving Concordia neighbors and businesses.
For a full description of the duties and requirements of this important contractor position, and how to apply visit: ConcordiaPDX.org/get-involved/CNews-editor-position. Questions? Please contact Peter Keller at Chair@ConcordiaPDX.org.
By Mac Larsen | CNA Media Team
Even during the hardest part of the COVID-19 pandemic, Binks Bar still found a way to make things a little bit more beautiful.
After 20 years, the little bar near the corner of 27th Avenue and Alberta Street is still truckin’ and its response to the hardships of COVID-19 reflect the sense of community and resilience of owners Bianca and Justin Youngers.
Even with Portland restaurants and bars in disarray, the couple invested in their future and made their space even more appealing to the residents of Concordia and Alberta Street.
“I think that at the beginning, when we were shut down, my husband and I had a lot of nervous energy. It was pretty horrible,” Bianca said. “We took that time to take everything out of here and redo the floors, and we painted the whole thing ourselves. “We just came down and just kind of tried to beautify it.
“We had mural artist Plastic Birdie come in, and he did a mural in our little room back here that we lovingly call the make-out room, because people make out back there.” Bianca laughed at the intimacy a neighborhood bar can provide.
In the early years, Justin and Bianca had worked Binks themselves, from open to close.
It was the groovy and gritty atmosphere of the Alberta Arts District that really stood out to Bianca. She remembered the MarchFourth Marching Band, a Last Thursday standby, on stilts and in costume that threw parties in Binks’ back room.
When COVID-19 closed down eateries across the state, the couple changed their bar business model and focused on delivery.
Dubbed “Binkster,” the delivery service offered meals and drinks to individual households. If a customer wanted to host a videoconference party, Binkster delivered the provisions to each guest’s home. Items ranged from entrees, snacks, growlers, cocktails to selections from Binks’ bottle shop to flowers, gifts and CBD. “We actually had to bring on more staff because it was so labor intensive,” Bianca said.
For the Binks owners, change and resilience is par for the course. “If you imagine we’ve been here for 20 years, that’s a lot of changes you see, and each one is so significant,” Bianca said. “You mourn them when they happen because they really happen fast.
“And then, the next thing is just like a whole rebirth and a whole new thing. It’s pretty cool, owning a bar that way.”
Mac Larsen is a graduate student at the University of Oregon, pursuing a master’s degree in journalism. He grew up in Concordia neighborhood and can be found frequently on Alberta Street, complaining about all the construction.
By Mac Larsen | CNA Media Team
When you search “catalytic converter theft” on Concordia Nextdoor.com, you’ll see countless posts of desperate neighbors dismayed that they, too, have been victims of the crime.
This form of petty theft is so common in the Portland metro area that many car owners see catalytic converter theft as almost inevitable, leaving many wondering, “Why does this seem to always happen?” and “What can be done?”
Michael French awoke in his home in southwest Concordia to discover his car was missing from the spot he’d parallel parked it the evening before.
“Generally thieves will cut the converter out of a car without taking the entire car,” he said. His experience was the opposite. Three days later police found his car not far from home. The catalytic converter was the only thing that appeared to be missing or damaged.
“The car, otherwise, was in good condition, and nobody had ever gotten inside it,” Michael said. “It was still locked.”
Auto mechanics are on the front lines of dealing with this problem. Ron Johnson, a local mechanic, has observed a steep increase in catalytic converter theft over the past few years. He said the shop is replacing the catalytic converters of about 50 Priuses a year.
According to Ron, for the Gen 2 Prius like Michael’s, it takes only three minutes to remove the catalytic converter if the thieves have the proper equipment and a makeshift tow jack. A neighbor who saw Michael’s Prius stolen noticed the thieves used the back of a pick-up truck to move the car away from the neighborhood.
Generally, thieves are stealing the converters for the rare metals they contain – palladium and rhodium – and a Prius converter can sell for about $1,200 as scrap metal.
Peter Keller in south central Concordia had his own experience with would-be thieves when he was awakened at 5 a.m. to what he said sounded like a train derailing. Using two hacksaws, the thieves were halfway through removing the converter when Peter made a commotion and scared them off.
The tide may turn Jan. 1 when Oregon Senate Bill 803 takes effect. It prohibits scrap metal businesses from purchasing or receiving catalytic converters, and it passed by a majority in both the Senate and House.
Mac Larsen is a graduate student at the University of Oregon, pursuing a master’s degree in journalism. He grew up in Concordia neighborhood and can be found frequently on Alberta Street, complaining about all the construction.
By Brittany van der Salm | CNA Board Member, AL6
COVID-19 doesn’t deter the Native American Youth and Family Center (NAYA) from continuing to host NAYA Gala. The 18th annual gala and fundraiser is virtual for the second consecutive year.
The livestream event begins at 6:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 5. Prior to this, bidding on auction items was scheduled to begin Friday, Oct. 29, and ticket sales for a raffle on Monday, Oct 25.
Registration for the event, raffle and auction is at NAYAgala.org. The page will be updated with more information as the event gets closer.
Despite the format change, events manager Vawn Borges reported the organization still recorded over 800 unique viewers and 250 registered auction bidders last year. They generated similar donations to what the organization normally sees at in-person events.
The 2020 move to the virtual format allowed attendees from as far as Australia and Germany to tune into the livestream, bid in the auction and make donations, Vawn said.
This year, NAYA will again offer guests the option of ordering a traditional Native-inspired dinner catered by ChefStable and delivered to their homes. They may also bid on an array of auction items, including a blue glass vase made by Lillian Pitt, Northwest Native artist and former Alberta Arts District gallery owner. Add to that a selection of jewelry from the Southwest, several travel packages and more.
Although planning for the event is still underway, some changes to the program of the livestream event are expected, including several live performances.
Vawn said he wants the gala to feature more entertainment by Native performers. “We hope our virtual attendees will find our program more engaging overall.”
Longtime gala emcee and NAYA board member Zeke Smith will again host the event, and he will be joined by Johnna Wells to run the auction.
The annual gala is NAYA’s largest source of unrestricted funding. Money raised through the event is used to fill budget shortfalls or gaps. That ensures programs not fully funded through government contracts or foundation grants can continue to run.
NAYA is located on Columbia Boulevard and 52nd Avenue. It provides educational, housing, community building, foster care, elder and other services each year to over 10,000 self-identified Native Americans across the Portland metropolitan area.
Brittany is a board member of the CNA, and has lived in the neighborhood since 2019. She works as a Medicaid disability policy consultant with a national nonprofit firm. Brittany loves to bake and bird watch.
By Brittany van der Salm | CNA Board Member, AL6
Hi Neighbors! I’m Brittany van der Salm, a board member of Concordia Neighborhood Association (CNA). I moved here in November 2019 with my husband Paul and our critters.
You can spot us at Alberta Park with our pups, Etta and Dobby, and grabbing cones at Salt & Straw. Or find us gardening in our yard with the help of our outdoor guard cats, Red and Fats Domino – in fact, you may have already met them. They love to greet people walking by.
Professionally, I work as a policy analyst, and I focus primarily on services and supports for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Outside of work – when I’m not planning my Halloween decorations – I like to read and bake. I love to bird watch, whether at my yard feeders, around the neighborhood or outside the city.
Several times a month I participate in and host virtual dinner tables through an organization called The Dinner Party. It provides community and support for people ages 20-40 who have lost someone significant in their lives.
On the last Tuesday of every month, I host a table for people all over the country who, like myself, have lost both parents. I love having this opportunity to connect with people who just “get it.’”
For me, showing up for the communities I’m a part of makes me feel more connected. That’s why I decided to run for election to join the CNA Board of Directors – to join others in my neighborhood and to help others to feel like a part of our community.
I’ve learned so much about the issues impacting our neighborhood by being on the board and attending meetings. On Nov. 3, we’ll have elections for next year. Board chair Peter Keller offers more details about that here.
If you’re interested in taking on a bigger role in our community, I urge you to consider running!
By Javier Puga-Phillips | CNA Board Member, AL4 CNA Social Committee Chair
A new concept arrived in Concordia when certified sommelier Brant Ozanich and expert florist Gabby Terraciano opened the doors of Dogwood in April.
Dogwood is a wine and flower shop. “Wine and flowers are the perfect marriage,” Brant declared. In fact, he and Gabby are newlyweds and have taken the pandemic to relocate from San Francisco to start a new chapter in their lives.
“We always wanted to open our own business, and the pandemic gave us the extra time we were needing to do so,” Brant shared. They got married and opened their dream shop one month apart last spring.
Dogwood has an extensive selection of wines and flower arrangements ready for any occasion. As for the selection process, Brant noted, “We made a list of the wines we wanted to see in our shop and started selecting based on that list.
“We prefer wines grown on the West Coast from independent family-owned wineries and European wines.”
The flowers, on the other hand, are locally sourced, and Gabby and Brant are big believers in supporting women-owned businesses.
The couple met in San Francisco, but both have always had a soft spot for Portland. “Portland has always been a great city for us. We love the people, weather and vibe of the city,” Brant reported. When they came to Portland, they made a reservation in a popular restaurant on Alberta Street.
When they were ready to take the leap of faith and open Dogwood, they went back to Alberta and walked the street over and over again, realizing the need of a wine or flower shop.
They came across 4932 N.E. 30th Ave., where the shop is now located. “As soon as we walked into the space, we knew this was it,” Brant pointed out. They knew immediately that the Concordia neighborhood was home for them.
The decision on the shop’s name was almost as easy: Brant’s and Gabby’s love story began with dogwoods. “They were one of the first flowers I picked up for Gabby,” he explained.
Dogwood features a wine club that explores different regions of the wine world. Its focus is on enjoyment and education. The owners are also planning a combination of classes to get the community involved. Visit DogwoodPDX.com or Instagram.com/DogwoodPDX for details.
CNA Social Mixer
Concordia Neighborhood Association partners with Dogwood for a Halloween mixer from 7 to 10 p.m. in the new store. Dogwood plans to serve appetizers at the free wine tasting. Space is limited, so RSVPs are due at Social@ConcordiaPDX. org, and proof of COVID-19 vaccination is accepted at the door.
Nota del editor: Artículo disponible en Español, visita ConcordiaPDX.org/Dogwood.
Javier Puga-Phillips holds the At Large 4 position on the Concordia Neighborhood Association (CNA) Board of Directors, manages rentals of the McMenamins Kennedy School Community Room and chairs the CNA Social Committee. He is a real estate professional locally, and he is a published author and motivational speaker in Latin America and Spain.
Local tree advocates met recently with city representatives to discuss how to protect and preserve the International Grove. A report on that meeting is at ConcordiaPDX.org/pbot-grove-trees. To learn more about the challenges to the 10-year-old grove and to tour it, meet Saturday, Oct. 2, at 10 a.m. at Holman Street and 41st Avenue.
Note the date change from what was announced in CNews at ConcordiaPDX.org/2021/09/tree-teams-celebrate-groves-10th and ConcordiaPDX.org/2021/09/advocates-rally-to-preserve-grove.
By Nolan R. Bremer | Concordia neighbor
What’s in a name? is a question that has arisen with respect to the Concordia neighborhood.
After a series of names in the early years, the neighborhood has carried the name of the most prominent neighbor, Concordia University, for almost 50 years. With the closing of Concordia University, does the current name of the neighborhood need to be dropped also, or can the name Concordia stand on its own as a relevant name for the neighborhood?
I think it can, and here is why:
First, by definition, the Latin word “concordia” means harmony, well-being and peace. Literally, it means “with one heart.” While the neighborhood perhaps does not experience perfect “concordia,” the concept is worth setting as a goal toward which the community is always striving.
Every small business in the community works for the well-being not only of the family of the business owner but also toward the well-being of the entire community. All of those who work to be a positive force in solving racial, social and economic challenges – including the Concordia Neighborhood Association (CNA) board members, committee members and many concerned individuals – are promoting “concordia” in the community.
Even the word “connected” in the CNA mission statement assumes an outcome of “concordia.” On the one hand, we honor and promote diversity. On the other hand, we value having everyone aiming for the same goals.
Second, the gender of the Latin word “concordia” is feminine. The pages of this neighborhood newspaper often include the photos and stories of women who are making a difference in this community. The name Concordia honors and encourages such women. By extension, “concordia” also invites inclusion and provides a home for all of those who feel marginalized by the circumstances of their lives.
Finally, the name has served the neighborhood well for a long time. Of course, changing it will require only a few dollars and someone’s time, barring any unintended consequences.
Perhaps the name has been tainted by its association with Concordia University. For various reasons, some people will be disappointed if the name Concordia continues to define the neighborhood. But the name is well-established in the Portland area.
All of the other neighborhoods are named after people or places. Retaining the name Concordia, disassociated from Concordia University, will mean that this neighborhood alone carries a name that reflects a value which we regard as important: “concordia.”
CNA respects the views and beliefs of all Concordians, and their cultures and faiths. The views expressed by this writer do not necessarily reflect the views of CNA. For details about submitting a Reader’s Opinion piece for publication, visit ConcordiaPDX.org/CNewsSubmissions.
By Peter Keller | CNA Chair
On my list this month is our continued need for volunteers, the Concordia University poll and coyotes.
Sadly, we have to say goodbye to Sonia Fornoni, CNA Board member and Social Committee chair. Sonia and her family are moving out of state. Sonia has been a major force on the CNA board. She also managed all of the CNA events and the McMenamins Kennedy School Community Room. She will be missed and leaves some big shoes to be filled.
The CNA Board will appoint a new board member and Social Committee chair in the coming months. If you have interest in either or both of these positions, please reach out to me and/or attend the next (virtual) CNA Board meeting. That’s Wednesday, July 7, at 7 p.m. Visit ConcordiaPDX.org/CNAmeetings for sign-on details.
Next on the volunteer opportunity list, we’re recruiting writers for CNews. If you’re interested in writing about your neighbors and reporting everything that makes Concordia, well Concordia, please email CNewsEditor@ConcordiaPDX.org.
We are still looking for a volunteer to help us with our basic IT needs, which include maintaining a busy email system and tuning our website. The hours are minimal, and the results are appreciated. If you’re interested, please let me know at Chair@ConcordiaPDX.org.
Our informal poll asking what you would like to see replace Concordia University received hundreds of responses – mostly for a similar educational system. Results were published on the CNA Facebook page.
Finally, I’d like to put in a plug for our wild K-9 neighbors, aka coyotes. A neighbor wrote to let me know neighbors were expressing concerns on NextDoor.com about people naively feeding coyotes and small pets gone missing.
I see coyotes occasionally and have done a bit of research on them. They are among the wild animals that live here and are an important part of our ecosystem. They eat rodents, among other positive things.
Like any wild animals, people should not feed them or approach them. In fact, if you see a coyote and it doesn’t run away, the Audubon Society recommends waving your arms or making loud noises to scare them away.
It is illegal to relocate or hold a coyote captive. If there are particular individual coyotes that pose threats, the authorities will euthanize them. However, they’ve found that removing them doesn’t work, as they will naturally repopulate by having larger litters.
If you are interested or concerned, I encourage you to read the advice by Portland Audubon.
Native Portlander Peter Keller has lived in Concordia since 1997. He runs a small marketing agency with partner Max, out of their home studio. He loves exploring outdoors with and without his dogs.
By Erin E. Cooper | Concordia/Vernon/Woodlawn Neighborhood Emergency Team
Although it’s still early in the summer season, 2021 is shaping up as a year with the potential for wildfires similar to those in 2020. Low precipitation levels have dried out the soil and vegetation, and high winds can spread fire quickly.
Fortunately, there are some basic steps you can take to minimize the risk of fires and things everyone can do to prepare for rapid evacuations.
Vegetation near the exterior of the house can spread a fire to your house. Remove it or consider replacing it with fire-resistant plants. Oregon State University Extension Service identifies those plants at Bit.ly/CNA-USDA.
Keep trees trimmed back at least 10 feet from the house, and don’t lean or pile flammable material such as firewood against the house. For more information, visit Portland.gov/fire/your-safety/reducing-risk-wildfire.
It’s important to gather supplies and pack a go-bag before the time comes to evacuate. Your bag should include three days of food and water for each member of the family, a change of clothes, personal hygiene items and any essential medications.
If you have babies or small children, don’t forget to pack diapers, formula and other items to keep them comfortable. Don’t forget water, food, litter and travel crates for pets.
Follow the evacuation notices and wildfire warnings from reputable sources, such as the county, city and Portland Fire & Rescue. There are three levels of warning:
As with all disasters, do not wait for official notice if you are in immediate danger. To avoid traffic jams, take only one car per family and plan several potential evacuation routes.
Wildfires have much in common with other disasters. By planning ahead and communicating with families and neighbors, you can minimize the damage and help the community recover.
Erin E. Cooper is a marine biologist living in Woodlawn. She spends a lot of time thinking about disasters and has been a NET member for many years. Contact her at OceanListener@gmail. com
