We all could use some uplifting news these days. And so we shall eschew jeers this week and bring you nothing but cheers. Because there still is plenty of good in the world.
Cheers: To Vancouver protests. Rallies in support of black lives in Clark County have brought attention to police brutality while remaining peaceful and powerful. Among them was a gathering of about 1,500 cars last week at Town Center Plaza for a “Car Rally for Black Lives.” A motorcade of vehicles decorated with messages such as “End Police Brutality” then headed downtown.
Numerous other local rallies have been held, including in east Vancouver and Vancouver Central Park. Meanwhile, protests continue in Portland on an almost daily basis, triggered by the death of George Floyd on May 25 after a Minneapolis police officer kneeled on his neck. The demonstrations have been a moving call for change.
Cheers: To a reopening economy. With Clark County entering Phase 2 of the coronavirus reopening plan, many restaurants, hair salons and other businesses are welcoming customers while trying to follow social-distancing guidelines.
Many would-be patrons still are not comfortable with gathering in public places. For those who are, we offer a reminder that precaution in necessary. Try to remain at least 6 feet from others, and wear a protective mask when possible; states that have eased restrictions have seen a surge in COVID-19 cases, which is to be expected. And don’t forget the importance of supporting locally owned businesses.
Cheers: To Vancouver City Council. City officials have placed a six-month freeze on new large-scale fossil fuel infrastructure, including a moratorium on expansions to existing facilities. The goal: “To promote safety and livability of our city, and focus economic development on safe and renewable energy sources and green businesses,” Councilor Laurie Lebowsky said.
Jeers are warranted for the manner in which the resolution was presented to councilors — just minutes before the council meeting. But the unanimous vote in favor is one that will help Vancouver play a role in reducing carbon emissions. City officials are required to hold a public hearing within 60 days of enacting the moratorium.
Cheers: To alternative transportation. Vancouver-based M.J. Murdock Charitable Trust has granted $300,000 to Friends of Frog Ferry, a nonprofit group that is evaluating the possibility of a Willamette River water taxi service. Vancouver has been mentioned as a possible northern terminus for the ferry, which would run to downtown Portland, but plans have not been finalized.
A new Interstate 5 Bridge should remain the top priority for addressing congestion in the region, but additional solutions are worth considering. The Murdock grant will allow the ferry proposal to be added to the discussion.
Cheers: To quick action. Deputy Melissa Sager of the Clark County Sheriff’s Office went above and beyond this week when responding to a call at a gas station. At a Shell station at Northeast 119th Street and 117th Avenue, Sager found a woman in labor. According to a press release, she “immediately moved in to assist the mother. The mom gave birth to a healthy baby boy in the front seat of the family’s SUV.”
Sager reportedly cleared the baby’s airway, wrapped him up and handed him back to his mother. Mother and baby were taken to a hospital for further care, carrying with them the story of a most unusual birth that likely will be rehashed for years.
