Church
Celebration of Life
for Dr. Richard
Johnson
PHOTO COURTESY COMMUNITY A. M. E. ZION CHURCH
D
r. Richard Johnson, a popular and well
regarded Concordia faculty member,
passed away late last week.
A celebration of his life is at Concordia Univer-
sity – Hagen Center, 2811 NE Holman Street,
Sunday, April 29 from 6 – 9 p.m.
Dr. Johnson is the son of Rev. Sam and Opal
Johnson. He was Pastor at Highland United
Church of Christ for many years. Most recently he
led the effort that developed the Johnson Scholar’s
program at Concordia University.
Johnson had been teaching several classes at
Concordia, particularly in the College of Theolo-
gy, Arts & Sciences, including the Sociology of
Diversity. Concordia, Highland Christian Center
and the Johnson family have formed a robust part-
nership to serve the NNE African American
community in particular and the City of Portland
in general through a variety of initiatives. Richard
Johnson, a friend to many at CU and so many
other organizations, was a talented teacher and a
dynamic leader in the higher education communi-
ty who will be greatly missed.
For information on the event call 503-493-6234
Neighbors and Friends
Page 6 The Portland Skanner April 25, 2012
The Community A. M. E. Zion Church Evangelism Ministry in Vancouver hosted their First Annual ‘Getting To
Know Our Neighbors and Our Friends’ Block Party on March 31. The afternoon began with food, door prizes
and balloons for the children. Then the Prairie High School AFJROTC Armed and Unarmed drill team performed
regulation and exhibition maneuvers. Engine #3 rolled up with lights flashing and sirens sounding and three
fire fighters shared safety tips with the children. Certified group fitness and personal trainer Rachelle Wish of
‘ra4fitness’ put those who dared through a invigorating Zumba work out. Here, Col. Reinholz, Teacher in
Charge and the Armed and Unarmed Drill Teams (Alpha, Bravo, Charlie, Delta and Foxtrot) are Jacob Lundy,
Cody Hafterson, Samantha O’Doherty, Andrew Friason, Harrison Opdycke, Casely McNicholas, Jamie Catota,
Tommy Kelly Spencer Watson, Alec Camp, Wade Alfson, Naomi Ramos, Tom Butler, Aubrey Soronen, Sophia
MacPhearson, Alma Navarro, Nathan Grubala, Estebay Ramos, Melinda Erickson, Justin Plummer, Seth
Witherup, Bryce Staples, and Brady Foley with child-ren from Community A. M. E. Zion Church.