I am incredibly proud of all of you. These past few years have been hard on all of us, and I don't think it's any stretch of the imagination to say that Portlanders have been put through the ringer in more than a couple ways.

We aren't done yet, but this week we will touch a significant milestone. It's important that we take time to celebrate it properly. I know that can be difficult while abiding covid precautions and respecting those abstaining from alcohol and other intoxicants during this time. But we are a smart people, and we can sure as hell figure out a way to celebrate together in due respect of all we have accomplished.

I know the world isn't exactly what we planned it to be, but together we are surviving and soon we will return to a new sense of thriving, a kinder and more empathetic version that reflects our shared struggles and experiences during the rough times.

I know some of you are already there. Now's the time to help others find their way and celebrate the good news!

Let us rejoice and let us sing and dance and ring in the new!