Re-Ignite the Pearl — Thank You. Now Let’s Get to Work.

Below is a letter from Bruce Studer, President of the Pearl District Neighborhood Association, outlining the agenda for the Re-Ignite event, including the host of dynamic speakers and topics:

Dear Pearl Community,

WOW! What a night.

Tuesday’s Re-Ignite the Pearl Town Hall made one thing unmistakably clear: this community doesn’t just care—it’s ready to act. We are not waiting for someone else to fix things. We are doing it ourselves, together, starting now.

Thank you to every person who showed up, leaned in, and left with real plans and real momentum. You are Re-Ignite the Pearl. We also want to extend our deepest gratitude to the extraordinary partners who brought their time, expertise, and commitment to the evening:

• Ray Davis, former CEO Umpqua Bank, Pearl District resident: for your inspiration, drive, and unwavering belief that we can-and will-do this‍
• Linda Witt, community leader: for the diligence and on-the-ground work that helped spark this movement‍
• Councilor Olivia Clark and Eric Zimmerman, Portland City Council, District 4: for bringing city leadership to the table and engaging directly with our community’s concerns‍
• Chabre Vickers, Director of Equity, Policy & Communications, Prosper Portland: for connecting the Pearl’s future to Portland’s broader economic vision‍
• Scott Omlid: for the HSYCA partnership and your commitment to making things better‍
• Kimiko Matsuda and Peter Platt: for your creativity, insight, and vision for what our Farmers Market can become‍
• Malarkey Chef Jose Lalo Camarena, plus James, and Brian Malarkey (owners), opening this summer: for believing in the Pearl and making it real with the Malarkey restaurant opening this summer

Here’s where we stand:

• A coordinated revitalization plan is in place across PDNA, NWCC, and HSYCA.

• A 31-event 2026 activation calendar is ready to launch: including the Pearl District Farmers Market, movies and yoga in the parks, and much more.

• Pearl Patrollers and community ambassadors are gearing up to keep the Pearl welcoming for businesses, residents, and visitors alike.

• City leadership is at the table—and engaged.

Stay connected. Spread the word. Let’s bring the Pearl back—together.

Follow us on social media and reach us anytime at reignitethepearl@gmail.com.

With gratitude and determination,

Bruce Studer

President, Pearl District Neighborhood Association

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