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$2.5 Million for Education Programs Across Multnomah County Photo Courtesy of SEI For more than 40 years, SEI has been the difference in the lives of youth and families in Portland. SEI’s work has results - 98% of SEI youth graduate from high school. From an investment of the 1803 Fund, SEI will bring this experience and understanding to form the Education Co-op to distribute an annual recurring $2.5 million to support peer community-based organizations dedicated to the wellbeing of youth.  The potential for transformation is realized through collaborative efforts with collective goals in four areas: - Reading and math proficiency - High school graduation - Tech literacy - Career development The Education Co-op aims to reach youth across Multnomah County and fill the learning gap that they face by providing extra learning time and attention. SEI brings its track record as a community-based provider to lend both experience and expertise to step into this new role as a grant maker. SEI applied their deep understanding to develop grantmaking processes that work – a simple application and evaluation using measurement tools that show collective impact, which leads to transformation. “SEI has been a touchstone for our community for over half a century. Their experience serving Black children is unmatched,” said 1803 Fund CEO Rukaiyah Adams. “We’re here to support that record of success and strengthen our community.” At the center of everything SEI does is a youth who needs support and care to thrive on their own terms. SEI cultivates trusting, long-term relationships to navigate barriers and nurture community. As a central pillar of the North Portland community, the Tony Hopson, Sr. Center for Self Enhancement has been a beacon of community for thousands of youths and families. SEI CEO Trent Aldridge said, “It’s a privilege for us to lead this opportunity for transformational change while centering our collective community. Our goal is to love, support, and empower all young people to realize their full potential. There’s so much work to be done and SEI can’t do it alone.  This is a chance for us to be a good steward, identify impactful work, and make sure essential programs and resources get the funds they need to be sustained and expand.” An information session is planned for May 1st. Interested organizations should visit https://www.selfenhancement.org/education-co-op to register and learn more. For more information, contact Jennifer Ellis at jennifere@selfenhancement.org

Washington & Oregon to Sue over Trump Elections Order Washington state attorney general Nick Brown gives news conference announcing a federal lawsuit challenging President Donald Trump’s executive order attempting to overhaul elections in the U.S., in Seattle, Friday, April 4, 2025. (AP photo/Manuel Valdes) (AP) — Washington and Oregon on Friday became the latest states to ask a court to reject President Donald Trump’s efforts to overhaul elections in the U.S., a day after Democratic officials in 19 others filed a similar lawsuit. Washington Attorney General Nick Brown said the two states sued separately because they conduct elections entirely by mail and would be particularly harmed by the president’s efforts. “Neither the Constitution nor any federal law gives the president authority to set rules for how states conduct elections,” Brown, a Democrat, said during a news conference. “It is the states that decide how voters are registered. It is the states that decide how ballots are counted.” Friday’s lawsuit in U.S. District Court in Seattle is the fifth against the executive order since it was issued last week. The order includes new requirements that people provide documentary proof of citizenship when registering to vote and a demand that all mail ballots be received by Election Day. It also puts states’ federal funding at risk if election officials don’t comply. That could disenfranchise hundreds of thousands of voters in the Pacific Northwest, where ballots must be postmarked — but not necessarily received — by Election Day. Washington Secretary of State Steve Hobbs noted at the news conference that more than 300,000 ballots in Washington arrived after Election Day last year. “President Trump’s executive order is nothing more than a blatant attempt to rig the system and suppress votes,” Oregon Attorney General Dan Rayfield said in a news release. “He’s trying to make it harder for people to vote. It’s a direct assault on the Constitution and a brazen attempt to act like a king, dictating how states should run their elections.” The lawsuits from the states follow earlier ones against the executive order by nonprofit voting groups and the Democratic National Committee. They say the order could disenfranchise voters because millions of eligible voting-age Americans do not have the proper documents readily available. People already are required to attest to being U.S. citizens, under penalty of perjury, in order to vote. The lawsuits have said Trump’s directive violates the Constitution, which specifies that states have the authority to set the “times, places and manner” of elections. Congress has the power to “make or alter” regulations for elections for president and Congress, but the Constitution doesn’t mention any presidential authority over election administration. White House spokesperson Harrison Fields on Friday called the proof-of-citizenship requirements “common sense” and said the administration “is standing up for free, fair, and honest elections.” Trump has continued to claim he won the 2020 election despite all evidence to the contrary. Courts rejected dozens of his legal challenges and his attorney general at the time said there was no sign of widespread fraud. Reviews, recounts and audits in the battleground states where he contested his loss all affirmed Democrat Joe Biden’s victory. He and other Republicans also promoted the idea during last year’s presidential election that large numbers of people who were not U.S. citizens might be voting. Voting by noncitizens is rare and, when caught, can lead to felony charges and deportation. “It is hard to imagine a subject where this president has less credibility than he does with elections,” said Brown, citing Trump’s lies about the 2020 election and his loss to Biden. “He is always looking to undermine faith in our democracy.”

Celebration Grows with Extra Day Mexican traditional folk dancers performing at the Cinco de Mayo Festival in 2024. Photo courtesy of the Portland Cinco de Mayo Fiesta website. The Portland Guadalajara Sister City Association   (PGSCA) proudly announces the return of the 38th Annual Portland Cinco de Mayo Fiesta, Oregon’s largest multicultural festival. 2025 will see the event bigger than before as it adds an extra day of celebration for everyone to enjoy. The event will run from May 2-5, 2025, at Tom McCall Waterfront Park   in downtown Portland. Get ready to experience four days of festivities, offering even more entertainment, delicious foods, and family-friendly fun!   Festival hours are 11 AM – 11 PM Friday through Sunday and 4 PM – 10 PM on Monday,   with daily featured attractions and performances. Attendees are encouraged to buy tickets online   in advance to take advantage of discounted pricing.   The Portland Cinco de Mayo Fiesta will showcase an unforgettable lineup of entertainment, including the internationally-renowned Mariachi Ciudad de Guadalajara, direct from Guadalajara, Mexico, Oregon’s own Ballet Folklórico México en La Piel, and a variety of new artists. Guests will enjoy live music, folkloric dance, and thrilling performances, making this a must-attend event for all ages to enjoy.   Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Mexico with over 40 food vendors that will be serving authentic Mexican food, snacks, and desserts. Then, stroll through the Guadalajara Artisan Village, where visitors can explore handcrafted artwork and meet artisans who have traveled from Guadalajara and Tonalá, Mexico, to share their craft.   This year’s fiesta will feature an expanded Plaza de Niños, offering cultural crafts, games, free face painting, and interactive activities for kids. The event will also see the return of the Rip City Boxing Exhibition, the Family Fun Carnival, the Naturalization Ceremony, and more! The fiesta is more than just a celebration, it’s a powerful way to support Latino-owned businesses, performers, and culture in Portland. It provides a vital opportunity to uplift a community that contributes much to the city’s cultural landscape. By attending, visitors will directly support the small businesses, artists, and entrepreneurs within the Portland community and beyond. Bring family and friends and immerse in the sights, sounds, and flavors of Mexico in a safe, family-friendly environment at the 38th Annual Portland Cinco de Mayo Fiesta.

Mission Accomplished for Blue Origin This image provided by Blue Origin shows, first row, seated, from left: Lauren Sanchez and Kerianne Flynn and standing in back from left: Amanda Nguyen, Katy Perry, Gayle King and Aisha Bowe in West Texas. (Blue Origin via AP) (AP) Jeff Bezos’ Blue Origin launched his fiancée Lauren Sanchez into space Monday with an all-female celebrity crew that included Katy Perry and Gayle King. It was the latest wave in space tourism, where more of the rich and famous than ever before — or lucky and well-connected — can enter the zero-gravity realm traditionally dominated by professional astronauts. The New Shepard rocket blasted off on the quick up-and-down trip from West Texas. The fringes of space beckoned 66 miles (107 kilometers) up and provided a few precious minutes of weightlessness. Sanchez, a helicopter pilot and former TV journalist, invited the others along for the 10-minute, fully automated flight, packing on the star power with singer-songwriter Perry and “CBS Mornings” co-host King. Moved by the views of Earth below, Perry said she couldn’t resist singing “What a Wonderful World” in space. Also sharing the ride were film producer Kerianne Flynn; Aisha Bowe, a former NASA engineer who started her own companies to promote science education; and Amanda Nguyen, a scientist who studied planets around other stars and now advocates for survivors of sexual violence. Blue Origin declined to say how much the flight cost or who paid what. The trip came two months before Sanchez and Bezos marry in Venice. It was the 11th human spaceflight for the Washington state-based company, founded by Bezos in 2000 after making a fortune with Amazon. Bezos strapped in for Blue Origin’s first space tourist flight in 2021 and accompanied the latest crew to the pad. The celebrity launch was the nation’s first spaceflight where women filled each seat. The only other all-female crew in 64 years of human spaceflight was back in 1963. That’s when Soviet cosmonaut Valentina Tereshkova launched by herself, becoming the first woman in space. Tereshkova spent three days off the planet. Even after the latest launch, women represent barely 15% of the more than 700 people who have traveled into space. Sanchez said she deliberately chose women to launch with her, each of them eager to inspire both the young and old to dream big, and even commissioned special flight suits. The launch brought out VIPs to West Texas including Oprah Winfrey; Kris Jenner and other members of the Kardashian family; former NASA astronaut Mae Jemison, who became the first Black woman in space in 1992; and several women who previously have flown on private flights. Winfrey, a close friend of King, wiped away tears when the capsule reached space and the passengers were heard marveling at the moon and shouting with joy. As the women were buckling up for the ride back, Perry broke into song. Despite urging by her crewmates, she resisted singing “Roar” or her other tunes and instead chose “What a Wonderful World.” “It’s not about me. It’s not about singing my songs,” Perry said following the flight. “It’s about a collective energy in there. It’s about us.” At a news conference later, she stressed, “We weren’t just taking up space. We were making space for the future.” Bezos opened the capsule’s hatch minutes after touchdown, embracing Sanchez, the first one out. As they emerged, Perry and King kneeled and kissed the ground. “Oh my God, that was amazing,” said King, who considers herself an anxious airplane flyer. Three hours later, Sanchez said she was still trying to process everything. “Profound is like the one word I would use,” she said. This wasn’t the first Blue Origin launch with marquee names. “Star Trek” actor William Shatner caught a lift to space with Blue Origin in 2021 at age 90, soon after Bezos’ inaugural trip. He was followed by former New York Giants defensive end and TV host Michael Strahan and Laura Shepard Churchley, the eldest daughter of Mercury astronaut Alan Shepard, for whom the rocket is named. Two aviation pioneers who missed out on space when they were younger — Wally Funk and Ed Dwight — also rocketed away at ages 82 and 90, respectively. Most of Blue Origin’s passengers — 58 counting the latest launch — have been business or science types, TV hosts or YouTubers. Ticket prices are not disclosed.

Unemployment Benefits for Striking Workers being Considered From left, boeing employees Vance Meyring, Josue Ramirez and Joseph Mellon work the picket line after union members votes to reject a new contract offer from the company. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson file) (AP) — Lawmakers in Oregon and Washington are considering whether striking workers should receive unemployment benefits, following recent walkouts by Boeing factory workers, hospital nurses and teachers in the Pacific Northwest that highlighted a new era of American labor activism. Oregon’s measure would make it the first state to provide pay for picketing public employees — who aren’t allowed to strike in most states, let alone receive benefits for it. Washington’s would pay striking private sector workers for up to 12 weeks, starting after at least two weeks on the line. “The bottom line is this helps level the playing field,” said Democratic state Sen. Marcus Riccelli, who sponsored Washington’s bill. “Without a social safety net during a strike, workers are faced with tremendous pressure to end the strike quickly or never go on strike in the first place.” But the bills are raising questions about how they would affect employers, especially amid economic uncertainties tied to federal funding cuts and tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump. “It’s inappropriate to unbalance the bargaining table in a way that forces employers to pay for the costs of a striking worker,” Lindsey Hueer, government affairs director with the Association of Washington Business, told senators during a committee hearing in February. “Unemployment insurance should be a safety net for workers who have no job to return to.” So far only two states, New York and New Jersey, give striking workers unemployment benefits. Senate Democrats in Connecticut have revived legislation that would provide financial help for striking workers after the governor vetoed a similar measure last year. The measures in Washington and Oregon have been passed by the state Senate of each and are now in the House. The Washington bill faces its final committee hearings on Friday and Monday. The Economic Policy Institute, a nonprofit, pro-labor think tank in Washington, D.C., has studied the effects of giving unemployment benefits to striking workers and found it to be good for workers and employers alike, said Daniel Perez, state economic analyst for the organization. First, he said, lengthy strikes are extremely rare. More than half of U.S. labor strikes end within two days — workers wouldn’t receive pay in those cases — and just 14% last more than two weeks. Second, the policy costs very little — less than 1% of unemployment insurance expenditures in every state that has considered legislation. Bryan Corliss, spokesperson for the Society of Professional Engineering Employees in Aerospace union, told The Associated Press that the big winners would be low-wage workers. “If low-wage workers had the financial stability to actually go on strike for more than a day or two without risking eviction, we believe that would incentivize companies to actually come to the table and make a deal,” he said. During a hearing in the Washington House labor committee last week, several Republican lawmakers tried to amend the bill to require striking workers to look for other jobs or to shorten the time covered from 12 weeks to four. The Democratic majority shot those ideas down. Republican Rep. Suzanne Schmidt said the bill might be good for workers, but it would hurt employers. “We’ve seen instances of this with the Boeing strike last year for the machinists,” she said. “We had 32,000 people on strike at the same time and if this had been in play it would have cost millions of dollars to cover those workers. Boeing did actually lose billions having the workers on strike for several months.” The Oregon bill, which also would make striking workers eligible for unemployment benefits after two weeks, sparked a similar debate, both among Democratic and Republican lawmakers as well as constituents, with hundreds of people submitting written testimony. The state has seen two large strikes in recent years: Thousands of nurses and dozens of doctors at Providence’s eight Oregon hospitals were on strike for six weeks earlier this year, while a 2023 walkout of Portland Public Schools teachers shuttered schools for over three weeks in the state’s largest district. The Oregon Senate passed the measure largely along party lines, with two Democrats voting against it. On the Senate floor, Democratic Sen. Janeen Sollman said she worried about the effect on public employers such as school districts, which “do not have access to extra pots of money.” Private employers pay into the state’s unemployment trust fund through a payroll tax, but few public employers do, meaning that they would have to reimburse the fund for any payments made to their workers. Democratic Sen. Chris Gorsek, who supported the bill, argued it wouldn’t cost public employers more than what they’ve already budgeted for salaries, as workers aren’t paid when they’re on strike. Also, those receiving unemployment benefits get at most 65% of their weekly pay, and benefit amounts are capped, according to a document presented to lawmakers by employment department officials. “Unemployment insurance is partial wage replacement, so unemployment insurance in and of itself is not an additional cost to the employer,” Gorsek said. “In fact, the only way Senate Bill 916 would yield additional cost for what was already budgeted by the employer is if the employer decided to hire replacement workers.”

Increased Support for Young Learners Photo courtesy of Preschool for All – Multnomah County Entering its fourth school year, the Preschool for All (PFA) program announced it will serve up to 3,800 families in the 2025–2026 school year—quadrupling the number of children served since its launch in 2022. Applications are open from April 2 to April 30, 2025, at 11:59 p.m., for children who are 3 or 4 years old by Sept. 1, 2025, and have a parent or guardian living in Multnomah County. Families can apply at pfa.multco.us . “We are pleased to serve up to 1,600 additional children in the 2025–2026 school year, providing more choices for families and growth opportunities for providers,” said Leslee Barnes, director of the Preschool & Early Learning Division at Multnomah County. “We appreciate our educators who create welcoming, developmentally appropriate learning environments. Providers in the program receive extensive support, including coaching, professional development, and funding to build and expand child care facilities.” In 2025–2026, 128 providers—including over 50 new ones—will serve children at nearly 220 locations. This expansion builds on the previous year, when 80 providers served 2,225 children at 133 sites. PFA will also launch a Provider Advisory Group to gather feedback and continue improving program effectiveness. The program has grown from 728 children in 2022-2023 to 3,800 in 2025-2026. This growth provides more options for working families and aims for universal preschool in Multnomah County by 2030, in collaboration with other state and federal programs like Preschool Promise and Head Start.  The Preschool for All Family Survey Findings, conducted by external research partners (Curenton, S. M. et al.) indicate families find real value in the program: 97%   are satisfied or highly satisfied with their PFA experience; 97%   of seats are enrolled; 99% feel welcomed; 95% feel comfortable discussing problems with educators; and 100% believe providers help children feel comfortable sharing about home life. In addition, 65%   of programs offer a 10-hour preschool day for families. Kelly Wirth, a parent of two kids said: "As a mom, having access to Preschool for All has been life-changing for our family. My daughter is not only learning her ABCs, but she’s building confidence, making friends, and developing a love for learning. It’s given her a strong start—and given me peace of mind knowing she’s in a safe, nurturing environment every day. I encourage every family to apply. This program is a gift, and every child deserves the chance to thrive from the very beginning." The county reports that Preschool for All is successfully reaching populations that have historically had the least access to preschool. As of February 2025, 71% of participating families have low incomes, and 65% of children identify as Black, Indigenous, or Children of Color. Additionally, 4% of children live with foster parents or legal guardians, 5% are from families experiencing homelessness, and 30% speak a language other than English at home. In total, 61 different languages are represented among enrolled families. Families can apply through April 30 and choose up to six preschool programs on their application, including schools, home-based and center-based care. Most seats will be filled during the spring. Later in the summer, the application reopens for new applicants to apply for remaining seats or to be placed on a waiting list. To learn more or apply, visit  pfa.multco.us

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Officers arrest a suspect and collect evidence (Photo Courtesy of Portland Police Bureau) Partnering to Improve Safety On March 23, North Precinct Neighborhood Response Team (NRT) officers, along with officers from Central and East NRT and members of the Narcotics and Organized Crime Unit, collaborated to enhance the safety and usability of the area surrounding Dawson Park. Partnering with local businesses and the Organized Retail Crime Association of Oregon, officers targeted individuals involved in retail theft and illegal drug activity. During the operation, 26 individuals were arrested, 100 criminal charges were filed, and 16 outstanding warrants were served. Stolen goods valued at hundreds of dollars were recovered and returned to nearby businesses, and several illegal drug transactions were disrupted. North Precinct personnel remained committed to improving safety in and around Dawson Park, continuing efforts to develop creative solutions in partnership with the city.

Continuation of refresh projects Rockwood Library will close to the public starting April 22 to start on a series of bond-funded improvements. Rockwood’s last day open to the public before construction is April 21. Project teams expect the work to last until fall 2025. Rockwood Library (Photo courtesy Multnomah County Library) Multnomah County Library is actively working to build, expand, and renovate library spaces for the public as part of the voter-approved 2020 Library building bond. This year marks a significant transformation for the library system, with the construction and expansion of five libraries and a series of Refresh projects across the system, leading to temporary library closures. The work at Rockwood Library is part of these Refresh projects, which focus on smaller but impactful upgrades at 11 libraries on a shorter timeline. Similar projects at other locations have typically taken about four months to complete. Updates at Rockwood Library will include improved shelf heights for better space utilization and sight lines, a welcoming children's area with new movable furniture, new reading room chairs with and without arms, additional table space, a Tech Bar for patrons to use copy machines, scanners, and computers, as well as fresh paint and new carpet for a refreshed look. While Rockwood Library is temporarily closed, community members are encouraged to visit alternate locations. Midland Library, located at 805 SE 122nd Avenue in Portland, will host Rockwood’s makerspace starting May 13 until Rockwood reopens. Other nearby options include Gresham Library at 385 NW Miller Avenue in Gresham and Troutdale Library at 2451 SW Cherry Park Road in Troutdale. These locations will continue to provide essential library services and resources to the community during Rockwood Library’s renovation.

Community members gather at Augustana Lutheran Church. Photo credit: M. Washington Oregon's Measure 114, a gun control law, was upheld by the Oregon Court of Appeals and will move forward despite potential appeals. The law includes restrictions on high-capacity magazines and requires gun purchase permits.

Jaliyah Elliott pays a visit to the Oregon Boys & Girls Club Get to Know Miss Black Oregon Jaliyah Elliott is a passionate advocate for women’s empowerment, a dedicated mentor, and a proud representative of Oregon in the Miss Black USA Pageant. As Miss Black Oregon USA, Jaliyah is making history—Oregon has not had a Miss Black Oregon USA since 1994. She is committed to using her platform, H.E.R Inner Strength, to support and uplift women on their personal and professional journeys. H.E.R Inner Strength is more than just a platform—it’s a movement dedicated to healing, empowerment, and resilience. Jaliyah believes that women, regardless of their background, deserve a safe space to grow, learn, and rise above adversity. Through workshops, mentorship programs, and community discussions, she provides women with the resources and support needed to overcome challenges, build self-confidence, and take control of their futures. She is particularly passionate about creating a support system for young women, and teenagers who often lack the guidance and community they need to thrive. Beyond her advocacy, Jaliyah wears many hats—she is a model, stylist, caregiver, and flight attendant who balances her career in service and fashion with her mission to inspire change. As a woman of faith who actively attends church, she is deeply committed to using her spirituality as a guiding force in her work and personal growth. She actively works with youth in her community, modeling the values of hard work, resilience, and self-belief. Miss Black Oregon, Jaliyah Elliott This summer, Jaliyah will proudly represent Oregon at the Miss Black USA National Pageant in Washington, D.C. As she prepares for this life-changing opportunity, she is calling on her community to help support her journey. Donations will not only contribute to essential expenses such as travel, wardrobe, and competition fees but will also help expand the outreach of H.E.R Inner Strength. Every contribution directly fuels mentorship programs, community workshops, and events designed to uplift and educate women. Supporting Jaliyah is about more than just a pageant—it’s about investing in the empowerment of women and the next generation of leaders. Donations can be made via Cash App ($JaliyahElliot), Gofund Me ( https://gofund.me/21a60b0b ), or Zelle ( jaliyahelliott8@gmail.com ). Sponsorship opportunities are also available, offering branding benefits for businesses that want to support her cause and be recognized for their commitment to social impact. For more information, follow her journey on Instagram at @MissBlackOregonUSA and @poshpageantproductions or connect with her via email: Jaliyahelliott8@gmail.com

Many Oregonians may be missing out on tax refunds and credits, but free filing assistance is available through community organizations for those who qualify. Claim Your Tax Refund You may think you don’t need to file a tax return, but you could be missing out on a significant refund. If you need help filing, free assistance is available through the Oregon Department of Human Services Tax Infrastructure Program, which funds community organizations across the state to provide tax filing support for those who qualify. Many working Oregonians are not required to file a tax return or haven’t filed in years, but filing can bring several financial benefits. You could receive a substantial refund if your employer withheld too much money from your paycheck, especially if you worked part-time or only part of the year. There are also numerous tax credits available, including the state and federal Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) for low-income workers, the Oregon Kids Credit for families with children, the Working Family Credit for childcare costs, the Retirement Savings Credit for those saving for retirement, and the American Opportunity Credit for college students. Many young people under 18 mistakenly believe their parents' tax return includes their earnings, but they may still be eligible for refunds on excess withholdings while being claimed as dependents. If you haven’t filed in years, including during the pandemic, free in-person tax filing assistance is available to help with prior year returns. Additionally, you may be required to file a state tax return in Oregon, where income thresholds for filing are lower than federal requirements. For example, a single person with no dependents in Oregon must file if they earn at least $7,710. Even if you missed the April 15 deadline, there is no penalty for late filing if you are owed a refund, and free tax help is available through mid-October. The Tax Infrastructure Grant Program supports culturally relevant and rural community organizations, Tribal governments, and other groups in providing free tax education and filing assistance for low-income individuals. Help is available in multiple languages, and funding also goes toward increasing the number of certified tax preparers in Oregon. For free tax filing assistance, you can contact 211Info by calling 2-1-1 or emailing help@211info.org . Additional resources are available at Oregon State University, Western Oregon University, CASH Oregon, the Immigrant and Refugee Community Organization (IRCO), Centro de Servicios Para Campesinos, and the Latino Community Association.