Overlook Neighborhood Update (July 22)

1) Patton Square Park community party on Saturday
2) Public hearing about development of Overlook heritage tree property
3) Keep cool during the heat wave


1) Patton Square Park community party on Saturday

Friends of Patton Square Park will host a free community party on July 28, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Enjoy music provided by the Friends of Noise Youth Showcase (Brody Gray – Contemporary Torchy/ Acoustic Pop, Forrest Myers-Power – Rock/Pop, and Mel Zuch – Alt-Country /Pop), collaborate on an art piece, enjoy group yoga in the park, go on a scavenger hunt to win a raffle prize, meet MAX Station artists and learn about community plans for playground improvements.  There will be fun for all ages.

Patton Square Community Park is located in Overlook at 5727 N Interstate Ave., next to the Interstate Firehouse Cultural Center (IFCC).

The IFCC will be open, providing an opportunity to tour a valuable historical resource for North and Northeast Portland. Food from Gracie’s Pizza and snow cones from Hana’s PDX will be available for purchase.

Many thanks to event sponsors, Aprende con Amigos Preschool Academy, Firelight Yoga, Frank’s 76, and the Overlook Neighborhood Association. Thanks also to adidas, Atomic Pizza, Blend, Garagiste, New Seasons Market, and Ruby Jewel Ice Cream for donating raffle items.

2) Public hearing about development of Overlook heritage tree property

The owners of property on N Overlook Terrace that includes a designated heritage tree (#259) have proposed subdividing the property. If approved, the property would be split into six buildable lots and two conservation tracts, one of which is intended to protect the oak. The Overlook Neighborhood Association submitted written testimony on the proposal asking for maximum protection of the iconic neighborhood tree as set out by the city Urban Forestry Department.

The staff report recommends allowing the subdivision with restrictions. It now goes before a hearings officer, and the public will have a chance to weigh in at a public hearing on Monday. Anyone who would like to testify for or against the proposal or who would just like to listen in should attend. A representative of OKNA will testify as will representatives of Friends of Overlook Bluff, which has raised concerns about the proposal.

The hearing will take place July 23 starting at 9 a.m. at 1900 SW 4th Ave., Suite 3000.

 3) Keep cool during the heat wave

Today is the start of a heat wave in Portland. Afternoon high temperatures are forecast to reach the 90s through next Sunday. Extreme heat can be dangerous. Follow these tips to stay healthy and cool.

  • Check on your Overlook neighbors who might be at risk of heat-related illnesses to make sure they are OK.
  • Find an interactive map of all public places to stay cool.
  • Visit public facilities with air conditioning such as libraries and community centers. The nearest to Overlook are North Portland Library (512 N Killingsworth St.) and Matt Dishman Community Center (77 N.E. Knott St.).
  • Multnomah County will open a cooling shelter at the East County building in Gresham (600 NE 8th St.) for seniors, people with disabilities and others at high risk for heat-related illnesses. The shelter will open Sunday (4-9 p.m.) and Monday (5-9 p.m.). If you need transportation, call Ride Connection at 503-226-0700.
  • Drink plenty of water, non-alcoholic and decaffeinated fluids. People with health conditions such as epilepsy or heart or kidney disease should talk to a doctor before increasing their consumption.
  • Dress for the weather. Wear a wide-brimmed hat and loose, lightweight, light-colored clothing to reflect heat and sunlight.
  • Never wait in a parked vehicle or leave a child, elder or pet waiting in a parked car. Temperatures inside parked vehicles can rise dangerously high – even with the windows open.
  • Slow down. Reduce or reschedule strenuous activities until the heat of the day has passed.
  • Stay out of the sun. Sunburn interferes with the skin’s ability to cool.
  • Take a cool bath, shower or sponge bath. Cool water can help cool an overheated body.
  • Pay attention to older adults, people with disabilities or health conditions.