ISSUE #34.25 • SPECIAL SECTION •

Oregon House District 45

Northeast Portland

BY WW EDITORIAL STAFF | 503-243-2122

[April 30th, 2008]

Michael Dembrow

Democrat

Tattoo he’d get: Dembrow says his religion, Judaism, forbids tattoos.

This is another open seat vacated by a representative looking to climb into the Senate—in this case, Rep. Jackie Dingfelder, who has held the seat for four terms.

The surprisingly easy choice here is Michael Dembrow, a 56-year-old English instructor at Portland Community College for the past 27 years. Gov. Ted Kulongoski recently chose Dembrow to serve on the State Board of Higher Education, a mark of the respect he has earned as a faculty leader at the learning institution with the largest enrollment in the state.

Given that PCC educates more teenagers than any Portland high school, Dembrow would bring valuable perspective to the debate over both K-12 and higher-ed budgets, especially when it comes to the oft-neglected but vital realm of community colleges.

We’re a little concerned about Dembrow’s fealty to union interests (his website lists no fewer than 16 labor endorsements, and Lord knows voters in this district have gotten plenty of mailers touting that backing). But he makes a far stronger case for himself than the other two candidates in this race: Jon Coney, a Metro spokesman who offers little beyond a vague interest in reforming Oregon’s tax structure, and Cyreena Boston, a highly touted newcomer who is short on experience and specifics.

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Video of WW endorsement interview (thanks to Portland Community Media)

Comment on this article

Fred writes on Apr 30th, 2008 1:02pm

Comment 1 | Respond

Hooray for your endorsement of Michael Dembrow in the HD45 race! I know this is the year experience isn't supposed to count for anything (which George Bush proved, of course). But Dembrow is indeed the clear choice in this race. He could be playing golf and chasing after his grandkids, but he clearly is driven to help Oregonians in the state House. HD45 residents will benefit so much from his experience and his seasoned perspective.

Oregonian37 writes on Apr 30th, 2008 10:20pm

Comment 2 | Respond

Michael is a fantastic choice for the legislature. We need his experience, intelligence, and with the coming economic difficulties, his understanding of the educational engine that will make or break the future liveability of this state.

Lindsay writes on May 1st, 2008 11:53am

Comment 3 | Respond

Shame on the WillyWeek for overlooking Ms. Boston! She's a rising star! A local from the community, smart, innovative, and exactly what Oregon politics needs!

How can you endorse Obama and not endorse Cyreena?! She's change, she's progress, and she's committed.

Geri writes on May 2nd, 2008 5:09pm

Comment 4 | Respond

WHAT IS WRONG WITH UNIONS?!

WW, this is ridiculous writes on May 4th, 2008 11:58am

Comment 5 | Respond

Cyreena Boston is hardly short on experience, especially for how young she is. She was the first consituency director for any state democratic party, and she's worked for Multnomah County in looking at healthcare as well as helping disadvantaged students. For a 28 year old, I'd say that shows lots of dedication and experience.

As for specifics, I don't think you need a specific plan for every issue as a state legislater. You only need the willingness to find solutions to our state's problems, as well as a clear stance on where you stand in those issues. Cyreena undoubtedly has both of those things.

I agree with Lindsay, shame on you for overlooking her.

Comment on the "Oregon House District 45" article