High Hopes for Kotek’s Central City Task Force
Governor Tina Kotek has initiated a task force aimed at revitalizing downtown Portland, assembling over 40 leaders from the city, community, and business sectors. Among them, Jessi
Joy Punk Podcast: Interview
In this episode of the Joy Punk Podcast, host Jenelle Etzel talks with Jessie Burke, the founder of The Society Hotel. Burke shares her journey from being a member of the US Olympi
Grant Aims to Clean Up Historic Old Town Neighborhood
Portland's Old Town is set to undergo significant improvements thanks to a new grant. The funding will be used to install tree-well covers, reinforce windows, and add gates to enha
Old Town Community Association’s Revitalization Plan
The Old Town Community Association has unveiled a comprehensive plan aimed at enhancing safety, cleanliness, and accessibility in Portland's Old Town neighborhood. Spearheaded by J
The Struggle to Save Portland, Oregon
Portland, Oregon, faces a deadly crisis as fentanyl exacerbates the city's long-standing issues with street homelessness and housing shortages. This challenge puts the city's progr
Progressive Portland’s Shift on HomelessnessThe Guardian: Interview
Portland, Oregon, known for its liberal policies, is experiencing a significant shift in its approach to homelessness. Jessie Burke, owner of The Society Hotel, witnessed the trans
Sidewalk Decorations in Chinatown: A Double-Edged Sword
In an unexpected turn of events, decorative elements intended to beautify Portland's Chinatown have been repurposed as tools of vandalism, leading to shattered windows and increase
Wheeler Announces Old Town Safety Measures
Amid ongoing concerns about violence in Portland's Old Town, Mayor Ted Wheeler announced the reintroduction of a dedicated police team for the entertainment district. This move aim
Reflecting on Old Town’s 90-Day Reset Plan
The city of Portland's 90-day reset plan for the Old Town neighborhood has shown promising results, with similar efforts now extending to the Central Eastside. Jessie Burke, chair
Old Town Business Owner’s Reaction to Governor Kotek’s Orders on Homelessness
Governor Tina Kotek's initial actions in office, signing three executive orders aimed at tackling Oregon's homelessness crisis, have been met with cautious reception from some loca