Reed neighbors gather at annual summer potluck block party

At noon on Sunday, July 14, the Reed Neighborhood Association’s annual Block Party took place in the shade of large trees on S.E. Raymond Street, just west of 34th Avenue. There wasn’t any formal program or specific activities, just neighbors getting together over a potluck luncheon.

“This is, by far our neighborhood’s biggest event every year – highlighted by everyone bringing fantastic food to share,” exclaimed Reed Neighborhood Association President Kristina DiTullo.

“This is the kind of event that really brings our neighbors together, sand gives new neighbors an opportunity to meet others – and it’s a time when established neighbors can reconnect with one another. In this way we build community,” DiTullo told THE BEE.

“The result is that, for example, during emergencies like the ice storm we had in January, the more we know our neighbors, the more we can help each other out – and be prepared.

“As part of this, we have the Reed NET [volunteer Neighborhood Emergency Team] here today to help neighbors learn how they can prepare for emergencies,” pointed out DiTullo.

“Another thing our neighborhood association is doing is helping our residents become informed about our annual neighborhood association elections, and the big changes coming to our elections for Portland City Council and Mayor, and our city structure.”