The Gateway Area Business Association (GABA) held its First Responder Tribute event to honor local First Responders today.  At 61 years old, GABA is the oldest business association in Oregon. Eleven years ago, GABA began to honor Gateway’s Citizen of the Year.  After 9-11-2001, GABA established an annual ceremony to pay tribute to local First Responders. On September 10^th both those traditions were honored, and Police Officers, Sheriff deputies, FireFighters and Red Cross Volunteers were recognized.  The event began with a Flag Ceremony at 11:00 a.m., followed by an opening tribute by Chief of Police Michael Reese. 

Photo by Colonel Edward Fritz

Ten years after the attacks on the east coast, we remembered all who go to work each day knowing their jobs in public safety may put their life at risk.  Thank you, first responders.

At the event, GABA also presented its eleventh annual Gateway Citizen of the Year Award to me. According to GABA, Gateway’s Citizens of the Year have "demonstrated commitment to the community, advancing its commercial, economic, financial, industrial, safety, and civic interests.” The 2011 award winner was chosen by David Douglas Superintendent Don Grotting, Parkrose Superintendent Karen Gray, and Portland Christian Superintendent Annette Johnson. 

Photo by Colonel Edward Fritz

 Parkrose School District Superintendent Dr. Karen Fischer Gray, and GABA stalwart Fred Sanchez of Reality Brokers, presenting the award

“Gateway Area Business Association thanks Commissioner Fritz for being such a formidable force for good in our community,” said GABA leader Fred Sanchez.  This is the first time the Gateway Area Business Association has chosen to give their award to a politician who lives outside East Portland.  US Senator Jeff Merkley was the recipient in 2009. 

 Photo by Colonel Edward Fritz

I am honored to receive this award from the wonderful community leaders at GABA, Oregon’s oldest business association.  City commissioners serve the entire city, and I always remember that. The award recognizes my past, current, and future commitment to the people of East Portland.  My parents-in-law live at CherryWood Village by the East Portland Community Center, so East Portlanders are my family in fact as well as in my heart.

My wonderful parents-in-love, Colonels Edward and Emily Fritz

Photo by Ann Sanchez