Powellhurst-Gilbert’s ‘Concert in the Park’ kicks off summer music season

Here’s what took place at the first of several outer East Portland concerts for the public this season. And learn about more concerts and events coming up this summer …

On the way into the Portland Parks & Recreation Concert in the Parks in Gilbert Heights Park, guests can learn about services provided by various nonprofit organizations and governmental agencies.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton

The heat of the steamy Saturday afternoon of July 13th carried over into the evening, as the Portland Parks & Recreation Concert in the Parks program began in Gilbert Heights Park, just north of the Gilbert Heights Elementary School.

Even as the band Tequila Highway was setting up on stage and doing sound-checks, it looked like they’d be playing to an empty field of dry grass. However, around the perimeter of the park, under the shade of stately trees, a sizeable audience was gathering.

Happy to have a concert to present to their neighbors are Powellhurst-Gilbert Neighborhood Association Co-Chairs José Gamero-Georgeson and Richard Dickinson.

“To us, this it’s important to host events like these, because it engenders togetherness,” observed Powellhurst-Gilbert Neighborhood Association Co-Chair Richard Dickinson.

Trees bordering the park provide welcome shade for concert-goers.

Coming from the Foster-Powell neighborhood to enjoy the uptempo live music is the Zaluski family.

“This is where people can come together and talk to each other,” Dickinson told East Portland News. “At an event like this, we can figure out what kind of things we have in common; but even more importantly, find ways to navigate the differences we have between us.”

One of those working to feed the masses during the concert, at the 100 Tacos food cart, is Jackson Flatner.

Performing is Tequila Highway, with a fusion of Latin music with rock, blues, funk, and other musical genres.

Before the concert began, neighbors were visiting the booths of nonprofit organizations that set up displays set up around the edges of the park. Many attending the concert stopped to talk with Dickinson and neighborhood Co-Chair José Gamero-Georgeson.

Just as the band began to perform, Dickinson affirmed, “Music brings people together; it’s a really wonderful way to celebrate our community.”

Check out the East Portland News Community Calendar for lots more summer concerts, movies and special events: CLICK HERE! It’s updated daily with new events and activities.

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