PORTLAND, Ore. — I came here to visit a family member, to see some dear friends … and to take a gander for myself at the condition of the resurgent downtown district in the city of birth.

I keep hearing from visitors and even from those who’ve never been to Portland that downtown has become ravaged by the homeless crisis and by the riots that ensued after George Floyd was murdered by Minneapolis police.

Businesses are fleeing downtown Portland, the chatter has revealed. The once vibrant downtown entertainment district is a mere imitation of what it used to embody, many have told me. Indeed, Portland has become a model for urban renewal and revitalization.

I tend to withhold judgment on these matters until I can lay own set of eyes on them. I am staying with my sis in La Center, about 12 miles north of Vancouver, Wash. I am hoping to venture downtown to take a peek at what is happening there. I’ll report back on what I see … if I am able to see it.

My hope is that the reports are overcooked. My fear is that they might be selling it all far too short.

I’ll get back to you.