Neighborhoods
Low Car Diet - Rain? Really?
So, things on the Low Car Diet have essentially gone according to plan. Karol and I are both really enjoying the bonus exercise we're getting from walking and riding the bus and Max are easy. But today, a few raindrops have reminded us what it might be like to do the low-car commute ... in 8 months of the year when its raining.
I, for one, have no clue where my umbrella is. Probably in the same place I left it that last day it rained in June. As my thoughts turn to actually using a Zip-Car to get around town, I have to admit that I was pretty bummed to learn that the closest Zip Car is oh, 1.6 miles from my house. Observe:
Read more and discuss: Low Car Diet - Rain? Really?
» July 29, 2008 - 1 comments - Front Page News, Marissa's Blog, Outer NE, Sustainability
Low Car Diet - 1st weekend
Besides bragging incessantly about the bazillion miles I walked last week, it was a pretty low key weekend for me. My little family walked to the movie store, to the coffee shop, to the grocery store.
Karol, however, sampled a veritable smorgasbord of transportation options. She took the Max to a concert at the Zoo and reports that the riders were good-natured and friendly. She walked to her Yoga class (yes, she really is that dedicated) and car-pooled with friends to everyone's favorite Swedish superstore: IKEA. She says, "Walking everywhere makes me feel more fit, and feeling more fit makes me think I can eat more – and that’s not right!"
So true, so true. But hey, wouldn't it be great if you could eat out at a chain restaurant in Multnomah County that has 15 or more locations nationwide and have the calorie counts clearly posted next to the
price or on a clearly visible poster at the point of purchase? So you could treat yourself but know how many more miles you'll have to walk to burn it off? I think so. So does the Oregonian.
Discuss: Low Car Diet - 1st weekend
» July 28, 2008 - 0 comments - Front Page News, Marissa's Blog, Outer NE, Sustainability
Low Car Diet - Days 3 and 4
In the immortal words of Karol Collymore, we're "still walking," five days into our Low-Car Diet. That said, at this early stage in the game, we're mostly avoiding complicated trips rather than making the effort to plan for them.
Even so, there are some things you can't avoid. Eating, for instance, is mostly a must. Same with picking up life-saving prescriptions and bringing home the bacon. In the course of doing these unavoidable tasks, we've discovered a few things that we didn't know before:
Read more and discuss: Low Car Diet - Days 3 and 4
» July 25, 2008 - 0 comments - Front Page News, Marissa's Blog, Outer NE, Sustainability
Low Car Diet - Day 2
Yesterday (just to mix things up and keep it exciting for the four people who might be reading this), instead of taking the number 6 to the Max from the Multnomah Building on Hawthorne and Grand, I walked up 7th/Sandy to 11th and the Max.
The beauty of this walk for me was getting to stroll by the Franz Bakery blocks. As most of my friends and co-workers know, I'm tragically gluten intolerant, but that doesn't stop me from loving the smell of freshly baked bread.
You can smell Franz's gluten-y delicious-ness all the way from Burnside. Even better, on the corner of the northernmost Franz block you can peer in the window as steamy loaves of bread come out of the oven and plop onto the conveyor belt. I highly recommend standing and staring at them for a while.
Today's stats:
Miles Walked: 3.6
Bus rides: 1
Max rides:2
Gluten-y daydreams: several
Collymore's update(and I quote): "Still Walking."
Discuss: Low Car Diet - Day 2
» July 23, 2008 - 0 comments - Front Page News, Marissa's Blog, Outer NE, Sustainability
Low Car Diet Challenge: 1 day down, 29 to go
by Marissa Madrigal
Yesterday morning Jeff gave the keynote speech at the 3rd annual ZipCar "Low Car Diet" kick-off in Pioneer Square. Among the 30 or so Portland participants: yours truly and Ms. Karol Collymore, communications expert extraordinaire.
Karol claims that the breezy distance between her place and work combined with her unencumbered "life status" will make her experience simple and un-blog worthy. I disagree and plan to keep you updated on her car-less trials and tribulations, too. She won't be able to resist Target's suburban lure for long. When she decides to cave - which she will - how will she get there? Public Transit? Walking? Zip Car? Oh, the mystery! The Intrigue! But I digress.
Some background on me and my commuting: I live in Central NE Portland about 1/3 of a mile from a bus line and about a mile from the blue and red line MAX. When I first moved to Portland 8 years ago, I lived really close-in; but I always drove anyway because gas was hovering around a buck a gallon. I started walking/busing more when I met my husband who walked everywhere, and even more when I sold my car on a whim.
Then we had a kid - an amazing, lovable kid - but suddenly we were driving everywhere. Then a few wine bars plopped into our neighborhood and we moved further out to find a cheaper, nicer place. The only problem? The available public transportation options = not hot.
Read more and discuss: Low Car Diet Challenge: 1 day down, 29 to go
» July 22, 2008 - 1 comments - Front Page News, Marissa's Blog, Outer NE, Sustainability
Save 55 percent on used material at The Title Wave Used Bookstore
From the Library:
Find incredible discounts on used bestsellers, children’s books, videos, music scores and more at The Title Wave Used Bookstore’s annual Ginormous Sale, Saturday, July 26 from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. All used material will be 55 percent off!
The Title Wave is Multnomah County Library’s volunteer-operated used bookstore, offering shoppers a selection of more than 20,000 used library materials, including books, audiobooks, CDs, DVDs, videos, records, cassettes and magazines at bargain prices.
The Title Wave is located at 216 N.E. Knott St., Portland. Hours are Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. For more information, visit www.multcolib.org/titlewave or call 503.988.5021.
Discuss: Save 55 percent on used material at The Title Wave Used Bookstore
» July 18, 2008 - 0 comments - Inner NE, Karol's Blog, Libraries, Sidebar Alerts
Piedmont Neighborhood Association General Meeting
The Piedmont Neighborhood Association's General Meeting will be held this Thursday (2008-06-26) at 7pm in Holy Redeemer's "Clare Hall."
Click on the neighborhood blog here.
Discuss: Piedmont Neighborhood Association General Meeting
» June 25, 2008 - 0 comments - Community Involvement, Karol's Blog, North Portland, Sidebar Alerts
Video: Meet the North Portland librarians
Librarians aren't what they used to be, especially when talking about our staff at the current North Portland libraries. In this video, you'll meet Patricia Welch from the North Portland branch and Nancy Arvesen from the St. Johns branch. There will be no "shushing" here!
We love both these wonderful women and they make fun to work in this district. Special thanks to Nancy who came to all of our public meetings on the siting of the new branch for North Portland and has been supportive of our office throughout.
PS: We are still ironing out our editing skills! Please be patient with us as we learn.
Discuss: Video: Meet the North Portland librarians
» June 12, 2008 - 0 comments - Community Involvement, Front Page News, Karol's Blog, Libraries, North Portland, Videos
Boise Neighborhood Update
Live in inner Northeast? The new Boise Neighborhood update is up now at www.boisevoice.org. Check it out!
Discuss: Boise Neighborhood Update
» June 10, 2008 - 0 comments - Community Involvement, Inner NE, Sidebar Alerts
Pictures from the library meeting
Last night's library meeting discussing the possible locations for a new Kenton branch was lively! We had close to 80 neighbors tell us how they felt about the locations and folks got some answers they needed from the developers. We took some photos that you can check out here.
If you have any comments on the two sites, click here to leave your opinions.
Thanks for joining us!
Discuss: Pictures from the library meeting
» May 30, 2008 - 1 comments - Community Involvement, Karol's Blog, Libraries, North Portland, Top Stories
Portland in the New York Times today
District 2 is in the New York Times (again) today. They're writing about gentrification and the "Restorative Listening Project" being led by the City of Portland's Office of Neighborhood Involvement. Have you been to any of these sessions? What do you think of the project? And what do you think of the newspaper's portrayal of Portland?
Discuss: Portland in the New York Times today
» May 29, 2008 - 0 comments - Front Page News, Inner NE, Neighborhoods, Warren's Blog
Video: Final two options for a new library in North Portland
Tomorrow is the meeting where Jeff will hear your preferences between our last two sites for a new library in North Portland. If you can't make it, we still want to hear your opinions. Watch the short video about the locations. Google maps will allow you to see actual images of the locations, just click "street view:"
8226 N Denver 2133 N Argyle
Tomorrow's meeting starts at 7pm at the Masonic Temple, 8130 N Denver Ave. Please let us know which site you prefer!
Read more and discuss: Video: Final two options for a new library in North Portland
» May 28, 2008 - 24 comments - Community Involvement, Front Page News, Jeff's Blog, Karol's Blog, Libraries, North Portland, Videos
Farmers Market survey online
The Farmers Market committee is proud to announce the online version of our farmers market survey is now available here. We also have it in Español!
We are collecting paper surveys at the following locations: Trixie's Beauty Bar, Red Bike Cafe, Baxter Auto Parts, Proper Eats, Anna Bannanas, Pattie's Home Plate and The Man Shop. We will be done with this phase by May 20.
Please, share this with people you know who live in North Portland and want to see another farmers market on the peninsula. This information helps us determine if we can have a market and how it would best serve our community.
Discuss: Farmers Market survey online
» May 13, 2008 - 0 comments - Community Involvement, Front Page News, Karol's Blog, North Portland
The new library siting - Jeff asks the community one more time
Jeff, the libraries and facilities have narrowed the search for a library site in North Portland from three locations to two - the Tri-Met site and the N. Denver site. Both choices are equally wonderful and have positives that would make each a great library. Because these sites are so great, we'd like the community to weigh in one more time to help Jeff make that final choice.
We'll have a public meeting Thursday, May 29th, 7 to 9pm at the Masonic Lodge, 8130 N Denver Ave. Please join us!
If you can't make it, we'll post a video on this site on May 29th that talks about the two choices. You can make your voice heard in the "comments" section.
UPDATE:
N. Denver location
Discuss: The new library siting - Jeff asks the community one more time
» May 12, 2008 - 7 comments - Community Involvement, Events, Front Page News, Karol's Blog, Libraries, North Portland
St. Johns Market meeting April 30th at 6:30pm
Just a reminder of the St. Johns Farmers Market meeting this week...It will be on Wednesday, April 30 at 6:30pm, at Our Daily Bread. At this meeting, we will look to discuss the following (among other items):
Survey & the St. Johns Parade - We'll take a look/listen at/to the hard work our Marketing Committee has put into the Survey and
finalize for print. Also, we'll need all of our volunteer power to get out the word about the survey, gather input, and get more folks involved!
Read more and discuss: St. Johns Market meeting April 30th at 6:30pm
» April 30, 2008 - 0 comments - Community Involvement, Events, Karol's Blog, North Portland, Top Stories
St. Johns Market meeting April 30th at 6:30pm
The next St. Johns Farmers Market meeting is April 30th at 6:30pm. It will be at Out Daily Bread (excellent pancakes) on 8680 N Ivanhoe St. Join us!
Discuss: St. Johns Market meeting April 30th at 6:30pm
» April 24, 2008 - 0 comments - Community Involvement, Front Page News, Karol's Blog, North Portland, Sustainability
Cuban dancing for everyone!
This sounds like so much fun, I might have to go: This Sunday, April 27 there is a Cuban Music Concert From 6pm to 8pm. Join us for dancing, listening, drinks and pizza with ISA AND CUBA ACHE CUBAN BAND. Come to MISSISSIPPI PIZZA PUB, 3552 N MISSISSIPPI AVE, PORTLAND.
Discuss: Cuban dancing for everyone!
» April 23, 2008 - 0 comments - Events, Karol's Blog, North Portland, Sidebar Alerts
New restaurant coming to St. Johns?
I was driving to Goodwill on N. Lombard yesterday and I noticed a new sign. It was a little bit past Pastry Cat in St. Johns. It seems to be a new Tex-Mex BBQ place. Tex-Mex and BBQ combined could be interesting. Can't wait to try it. Did anyone else see that?
Discuss: New restaurant coming to St. Johns?
» April 23, 2008 - 0 comments - Karol's Blog, North Portland, Top Stories
North Portland candidates forum
North Portland Candidates Forum
Sunday, April 20th, 2008
5000 N. Willamette Blvd.
Buckley Auditorium
2:00 - 5:00 PM
Your Candidates Your Questions!
Candidates for the following races will be present and speaking:
US Senate (Jeff Merkley and Steve Novick confirmed)
Portland Mayor (Sho Dozono and Sam Adams confirmed)
City Council Positions (most candidates for both positions One and Two)
Moderated by Mike Burton, Gary Hansen, and Dwight Jaynes.
Discuss: North Portland candidates forum
» April 17, 2008 - 0 comments - Community Involvement, Front Page News, Karol's Blog, North Portland
Boise and Irvington Neighborhood Association Visits
Commissioner Cogen spoke at the recent Neighborhood Association meetings for Boise (4/14) and Irvington (4/10) neighborhoods. His remarks focused on Multnomah County's role in our community, the funding challenges facing the county in the current budget cycle, and the work Commissioner Cogen is leading at the county to make our operations more efficient and better aligned with our community values. Topics he covered included Urban Renewal, Solar Power, County Digs!, and School Based Health Clinics. A short Q&A session with neighborhood association members followed Jeff's remarks at each meeting. If you are a member or leader of another District 2 Neighborhood Association and would like Jeff to visit an upcoming meeting, please give our office a call. Also, if you have an issue going on in your neighborhood, please let us know, even if you think maybe we already do know. Please contact us via email, phone, letter, or this website anytime. Commissioner Cogen wants to hear the concerns of all Multnomah County residents, and is always a big advocate for community dialogue and open lines of communication. Special thanks go out to Paige at Boise, and Richard at Irvington (Associaiton Chairs) for holding time on busy agendas for Commissioner Cogen.
Discuss: Boise and Irvington Neighborhood Association Visits
» April 15, 2008 - 0 comments - Inner NE
Are you concerned about the NE 82nd Max Station?
Here's your chance to tell someone! From Save Madison South:
Eastside MAX Station Open House
April 14th
5-8pm - drop in any time
Glenhaven (Banfield Pet Hospital)
Drop-in to learn about the project and share your ideas on how the areas around MAX stations can be improved.
The purpose of the Eastside MAX Station Communities Project is to take a comprehensive look at station community areas within one-half mile of MAX light rail stations in Northeast and Southeast Portland.
The basic question is: How can these communities become better places? The project will evaluate and recommend changes to land use/zoning, building and station design, transit and transportation facilities surrounding six stations: 60th Avenue, 82nd Avenue, Parkrose/Sumner, 122nd Avenue, 148th Avenue, and 162nd Avenue (see map). The objective is to help the Station Communities better serve transit users, support transit-oriented development and create more attractive communities.
Read more and discuss: Are you concerned about the NE 82nd Max Station?
» April 11, 2008 - 0 comments - Community Involvement, Front Page News, Marissa's Blog, Outer NE, Public Safety
Farmers Market meeting in St. Johns - April 9th
There is a Farmers Market meeting tonight at Our Daily Bread, 8680 N Ivanhoe St, Portland starting at 6pm. See you there!
Discuss: Farmers Market meeting in St. Johns - April 9th
» April 9, 2008 - 0 comments - Community Involvement, Events, Karol's Blog, North Portland, Sidebar Alerts
Boise Neighborhood update and announcements
Candidates Forum, Gentrification Documentary, Boise NA Community Meeting, Spring Clean-Ups, Portland Plan Hearings, Parenting for Prevention
Boise Neighborhood Announcements:
1. Thurs, April 10: People of Color/Immigrant and Refugee CANDIDATES FORUM
2. Thurs, April 10: Documentary on Gentrification
3. Mon, April 14: Boise Neighborhood Community Meeting
4. Sat, April 19: TWO Clean-Up Events: SOLV I-5 Clean-up and Spiffin' Up MLK
5. Tues, April 22: Hearings on The Portland Plan
6. Sat, April 26: Boise Neighborhood Spring Clean-up
7. Wed, June 25: Parenting for Prevention
Corresponding information below after the jump.
Read more and discuss: Boise Neighborhood update and announcements
» April 9, 2008 - 0 comments - Community Involvement, Front Page News, Karol's Blog, North Portland
Bridges to Unity Summit aims to decrease violence and racism in schools - April 10th
From Public Affairs:
Two hundred fifty middle school students will tackle the issues of racism and violence in schools at the third annual Bridges to Unity Summit. The summit will be held April 10, 2008 at George Middle School. The conference is titled “Building Bridges Across Cultures” and aims to help students learn how to successfully interact with other cultures, decrease conflict and gain leadership skills.
Joanne Fuller, Director of Multnomah County Department of Human Services stated, "I am pleased to support the third annual Bridges to Unity Summit. As we have seen in past youth summits, this event helps build stronger cross-cultural communication and leadership skills that help kids achieve success in their school and communities.”
Read more and discuss: Bridges to Unity Summit aims to decrease violence and racism in schools - April 10th
» April 8, 2008 - 0 comments - Children and Families, Community Involvement, Events, Front Page News, Human Services, Karol's Blog, North Portland
New North Portland library update in The Sentinel
Here is a small blurb on the new North Portland library, that we'll unofficially refer to as the "Kenton Library."
We are getting closer and closer to a decision...we're excited!
Discuss: New North Portland library update in The Sentinel
» April 4, 2008 - 0 comments - Front Page News, Karol's Blog, Libraries, News, North Portland
Portsmouth parents: Our schools need better breakfasts
Last week I was invited to a Healthy Eating Active Living (HEAL) presentation at Portsmouth K-8 school. The HEAL program is run by Multnomah County and by all accounts is successful in this North Portland school. The main point of the presentation was that the school's teachers, principal and the County are teaching the tools these children need to be healthy and successful. The problem is, there is not enough access to healthy foods in the community and sometimes at school.
Read more and discuss: Portsmouth parents: Our schools need better breakfasts
» March 28, 2008 - 0 comments - Children and Families, Community Involvement, Front Page News, Karol's Blog, North Portland
St. Johns Walgreens update
From the St. Johns neighborhood association:
CITY PLANNERS AGREE: SJ LOMBARD PLAN MUST BE HONORED
We recently met with senior planners at the Bureau of Development Services (BDS), who will decide on any application submitted by the Walgreens developer. Staff from Commissioner Randy Leonard's office were also there. We shared your comments and concerns, and we were assured that our reading of city code is correct: the site deserves a more urban design that reflects the historic nature of our downtown business corridor. Furthermore, a drive-through will not be allowed under any circumstances.
Your thoughtful comments at our March 10 meeting strengthened our position, and we're confident that BDS will keep both our comments and the St. Johns Lombard Plan in mind.
Walgreens News Coverage in Portland Sentinel
Download the St. Johns Lombard Plan
See the next steps after the jump...
Read more and discuss: St. Johns Walgreens update
» March 26, 2008 - 0 comments - Community Involvement, Front Page News, Karol's Blog, North Portland
Piedmont Neighborhood Association General Meeting 3/27 at 7pm
Piedmont's general meeting is coming this Thursday at 7pm at Holy Reedemer, Clare Hall. Visit the Piedmont Blog for all the details!
Discuss: Piedmont Neighborhood Association General Meeting 3/27 at 7pm
» March 26, 2008 - 0 comments - Community Involvement, Karol's Blog, North Portland, Sidebar Alerts
What do you think of the Columbia River Crossing?
Today in the Oregonian, there is an update of the Columbia River Crossing project. The project is an effort to decide what kind of bridge will replace the current bridge. We've all tried to head on I-5 going North and know the hijinks that ensue during the hours between 4:30 pm and 7 pm.
A quote from the article:
"A 39-member task force of elected officials and community groups asked state highway planners to forecast the air pollution the new 12-lane bridge would generate.
Pollution from more highway traffic shouldn't be allowed to harm asthma sufferers and others, said Jill Fuglister, co-director of the Coalition for a Livable Future, a Portland-based sustainability group.
"Low-income communities are already starting with disparate health outcomes," she said at a task force meeting in January. "The effects have more impact on those communities because they're starting with more health impact.""
Our own Commissioner has a seat on the Columbia River Crossing Task Force. So tell us, what do you think about a new bridge?
Discuss: What do you think of the Columbia River Crossing?
» March 25, 2008 - 1 comments - Front Page News, Karol's Blog, North Portland
April 9th - St Johns Farmers Market meeting at Our Daily Bread
Join the growing movement for a farmers market in St Johns! Volunteers are still welcome and wanted. Join us at 6pm, April 9th, at Our Daily Bread at 8680 N Ivanhoe St. See you soon!
Discuss: April 9th - St Johns Farmers Market meeting at Our Daily Bread
» March 24, 2008 - 0 comments - Community Involvement, Karol's Blog, North Portland, Sidebar Alerts
Global Sistergoods and OPB invite you to a night of FREE cinema - March 26th
Film: King Corn
Where: St. Johns Twin Cinema, 8704 N. Lombard St.
Time: 8:00 pm
Two recent college grads discover where America's food comes from when they plan a single acre of corn and follow it from the seed to the dinner plate. With the help of government subsidies, genetically modified seeds and powerful herbicides, America's most-subsidized crop becomes the staple of its cheapest—and most troubling—foods.
Panel discussion to follow featuring filmmaker Curt Ellis; Lisa Sedlar, President of New Seasons Market; Mike Moran of the Oregon Food Bank; and Shari Raider of Sauvie Island Organics.
Come early and eat at Proper Eats (8638 N Lombard St Portland)! All movie goers who attend before the film and mention the screening will receive 10% off dinner.
Discuss: Global Sistergoods and OPB invite you to a night of FREE cinema - March 26th
» March 24, 2008 - 0 comments - Community Involvement, Events, Karol's Blog, North Portland, Top Stories
Rose City Park Neighborhood Association Candidates Fair - March 25th
From Rose City Park Neighborhood Association:
Join your neighbors to meet and to ask questions of the candidates you will be selecting for government roles that will impact you and those around you!
WHEN: Tuesdays, March 25th from 7:00 pm to 9:30 pm
WHERE: Rose City Park United Methodist Church, NE 58th & Alameda (by NE Sandy Blvd., enter on NE 58th Avenue)
As of March 3, the (#) indicates the candidates that agreed to speak at the Rose City Park Candidates Fair. (PF) indicates they have the signatures to qualify for public financing but may not have been certified.
Read more and discuss: Rose City Park Neighborhood Association Candidates Fair - March 25th
» March 18, 2008 - 0 comments - Community Involvement, Events, Front Page News, Marissa's Blog, Outer NE
North Portland Library Update
Here is the library update as of March 17, 2008:
The three potential library developers in North Portland have had a chance to see our County architects’ ideas for a new North Portland library. Their proposals for the space are due to the County tomorrow, March 18th, at 1pm. These proposals are called “lease term solicitations,” which are basically tell us the charge to lease the space for the library. To get an update on the sites and who the developers are, click here to see the PDF.
After we receive the proposals, our Facilities and Library team will study them. This is estimated to take about 3 to 4 weeks. Then, that team along with Commissioner Cogen will meet to discuss the choices. Then, those choices will be brought to the Multnomah County Board of Commissioners for final vote. I’ve estimated another month in addition to the 3 to 4 week review process before a final developer is selected.
Comments and questions will be accepted here at our website or emailed to Karol Collymore. Thanks!
Discuss: North Portland Library Update
» March 17, 2008 - 0 comments - Front Page News, Karol's Blog, Libraries, North Portland
Someone wants Paul Bunyan?
Listen up, Kenton: some wants to buy Paul Bunyan! Folks are rallying to save the neighborhood icon. Check out this article from the Oregonian.
Buy your "Save Paul" bumper stickers here.
Discuss: Someone wants Paul Bunyan?
» March 13, 2008 - 0 comments - Community Involvement, Front Page News, Karol's Blog, North Portland
Healthy Eating, Active Living - Farmers Markets
Here at the County, we have a very cool program called the HEAL program, HEAL stands for Healthy Eating, Active Living. This program is currently active in North Portland at Portsmouth School. The HEAL program goes into schools and teach healthier lifestyles for kids and their parents.
There will be a report next week examining HEAL's progress in Portsmouth and St. Johns and we already know its been successful. The one hitch; lack of access to fresh foods. This is why our office is working with neighbors in St. Johns to start a farmers market that will be accessible to greater North Portland.
Our second meeting was last night and we had even more folks than the first one! We know its going to take a full year at least to get it off the ground so please, lend your human capital to North Portland.
Next meeting will be in April, so stay tuned!
Discuss: Healthy Eating, Active Living - Farmers Markets
» March 13, 2008 - 0 comments - Community Involvement, Karol's Blog, North Portland, Top Stories
Update on St. Johns Walgreens
Last night I attended the St. Johns neighborhood meeting. The topic? A proposed new Walgreens for the "entrance" to downtown St. Johns. If one is driving west on Lombard, it the triangular corner of Lombard, N. Richmond and N. Jersey. The drive-thru would facing N. Jersey a residential street and the dumpsters would face that street as well. The front of Walgreens would face downtown St. Johns. As one would drive up from East Lombard, they would see the back of the store.
As you can probably imagine, the crowd of 100 or so neighbors were not enthused at the idea. The position of the neighborhood association is not against the new Walgreens development, but the size that is proposed and they lack of consideration for the St. Johns/Lombard plan in terms of pedestrians, small business and smart growth.
As far as the association has been told, the site will resemble the Walgreens that is located at SE 39th and Belmont. That site is open 24 hours a day, has a drive-thru window (that is next to someone's residence and faces other homes) and had a big parking lot that is not sensitive to pedestrian traffic. The other push back is that there are 4 other pharmacies within a 3 mile radius, two in St. Johns.
Unfortunately, the developer did not join the meeting, as was expected. As we get more details, we'll post them on our site. In the meantime, if you want to make a statement about a suburban Walgreens in St. Johns or have a question, comment away. We'll collect and pass them along to the neighborhood association.
Discuss: Update on St. Johns Walgreens
» March 11, 2008 - 0 comments - Community Involvement, Front Page News, Karol's Blog, North Portland
Kenton neighborhood meeting with potential library developers
Join your Kenton neighbors tonight at their neighborhood meeting. Kenton has invited the three potential developers of the new North Portland library to discuss the project starting at 6:30pm. As of this morning, two of the three have accepted the invitation.
The presentation starts before the meeting at 6:30 pm
The meeting starts at 7:00 pm
Kenton Firehouse, 8105 N. Brandon St.
Discuss: Kenton neighborhood meeting with potential library developers
» March 11, 2008 - 0 comments - Community Involvement, Events, Front Page News, Karol's Blog, Libraries, North Portland
Retreat will support grandparents raising grandchildren
From Public Affairs:
Grandparents raising grandchildren face economic hardship and stress, according to AARP and The National Caregiving Alliance. In Oregon, AARP reports more than 37,500, or four percent of all children in the state live in grandparent-headed households. An additional 14,000 children (1.7%) live in households headed by other relatives. Nationally, 4.5 million children live in grandparent-headed households (6.3% of all children under age 18.)
Read more and discuss: Retreat will support grandparents raising grandchildren
» March 5, 2008 - 0 comments - Children and Families, Community Involvement, Human Services, Karol's Blog, North Portland, Sidebar Alerts
Suburban Walgreens in St Johns?
From St. Johns neighborhood association:
A Suburban Walgreens in St. Johns? Our Neighborhood Deserves Better!
Come to the final public meeting with the developer on March 10 at 7pm at the St. Johns Community Center. (Come at 6:45pm, we're going to pack the place!)
Summit Development Corporation wants to build a low-end suburban Walgreens surrounded by a parking lot at the former Rose City Chevrolet site - the gateway to Downtown St. Johns. It's a bad idea.
This is a square peg in a round hole. The developer wants exceptions to Portland's development rules so he can build a suburban-style store in our historic neighborhood business district. Traffic's bad enough already. The main entrances would be on residential streets and the store is designed mainly for cars - it would be dangerous for pedestrians, bus riders, and bicyclists.
St. Johns planned for better. When our community wrote the St. Johns/Lombard Plan, we said we want good development that would
strengthen our neighborhood. Not this!
Discuss: Suburban Walgreens in St Johns?
» March 5, 2008 - 0 comments - Community Involvement, Events, Front Page News, Karol's Blog, North Portland
Market meeting rescheduled to March 12th
As you may remember, we have had a meeting scheduled for Tuesday March 4. Unfortunately, we will be postponing that meeting until Wednesday, March 12, 6:30pm-8:00pm. The location is TBD, but we will give notice to this soon. This date will achieve a few things:
We will be able to assign a few tasks that have yet to be completed to committee-members before this next meeting
Allows for Cathedral Park NA members to attend.
We can promote our meeting at next week's St. Johns NA meeting (3/10), where we're looking to have MANY people turn out to hear the Walgreens' developer present their updated proposal.
We will be in touch over the next 1-2 days to offer specific tasks for folks to volunteer for. If anyone has anything they'd like to jump on, please check in with us to ensure we're not duplicating any efforts (or soliciting the same donor, for example). Thanks!
Discuss: Market meeting rescheduled to March 12th
» March 4, 2008 - 0 comments - Community Involvement, Karol's Blog, North Portland, Top Stories
A potential Walgreens in St Johns - meeting on March 10th
There is still some serious talk about a new Walgreens drug store coming to the heart of downtown St. Johns. You can hear the developer's site plans and voice your opinion at the upcoming St. Johns neighborhood meeting on March 10th. Meeting begins at 7pm at the Community Center on 8427 N. Central. As you can imagine, many residents are resistant to the idea. However, there are some voices as well that welcome a new development.
Some issues of concern: There are already two drug stores (Fred Meyer and Safeway), traffic jams at the intersection and late night lighting.
There are also positives: Accessibility for older residents, increased business and attention for St. Johns and a drug store that doesn't sell alcohol.
Talk to us about how you feel here on our blog. Also check out the St. Johns Sentinel paper for further discussion.
Discuss: A potential Walgreens in St Johns - meeting on March 10th
» March 4, 2008 - 0 comments - Community Involvement, Events, Karol's Blog, North Portland, Top Stories
Cool stuff in District two: Trebol Restaurant
Last night I was reading my latest issue of Bon Appetit and what do I see but North Portland restaurant, Trebol. The magazine noted it's fresh take on traditional Mexican classics and a few new inventions sure to bring you back. Check out Trebol's website and menus - they look delicious. Trebol is located at 4835 N Albina, in our own District two!
Discuss: Cool stuff in District two: Trebol Restaurant
» February 29, 2008 - 0 comments - Front Page News, Karol's Blog, North Portland
Farmers Market meeting in St. Johns - March 4th
Our next farmers market meeting is Tuesday, March 4th at the Ladybug Organic Coffee Company. Ladybug is at 8438 N Lombard.
We'll be discussing committees and what roles volunteers will start to develop. We can't wait to see you there!
Discuss: Farmers Market meeting in St. Johns - March 4th
» February 27, 2008 - 0 comments - Community Involvement, Events, Karol's Blog, North Portland, Top Stories
Oregon Hope Initiative
Jeff Cogen was featured in the Sunday Oregonian in an Opinion piece by David Sarasohn on Education. The concept is to follow the lead of various U.S. states and foreign countries and make higher education more widely available. This would help our economy, our primary and secondary schools, and above all our people. What do you think?
Read more and discuss: Oregon Hope Initiative
» February 25, 2008 - 2 comments - Children and Families, Community Involvement, Front Page News, Neighborhoods, News, News, Warren's Blog, Warren's Blog
Info from Piedmont Neighborhood Association
The Piedmont Neighborhood Association General Meeting is this Wednesday [2/27] at 7:30pm.
The OLCC has given the neighborhood a deadline of March 1st to submit comments on the proposed lifting of the Civic Food Mart's liquor license restrictions! Below is the text of a post I just made on our neighborhood blog (http://blog.piedmontneighborhood.com). Now is a time for action folks!
Read more and discuss: Info from Piedmont Neighborhood Association
» February 25, 2008 - 0 comments - Community Involvement, Karol's Blog, North Portland, Sidebar Alerts
Info from Boise Neighborhood Association
A few notes on Boise Neighborhood Communications...
1. Email Update Sign-up: The Boise Neighborhood Association sends out routine communications through a free online service, cooleremail. If you do not already receive our email updates and community announcements, please sign up for email announcements at www.boisevoice.org. (Do it now! It takes 2 minutes. This just may be the only announcement sent!)
Read more and discuss: Info from Boise Neighborhood Association
» February 25, 2008 - 0 comments - Community Involvement, Karol's Blog, North Portland, Sidebar Alerts
Family Support at the Center for Family Success
A support group for families who have a loved one in prison are now available in North Portland at the Center for Family Success. This is located at 8010 N Charleston. Call the center at 503-286-0600 to learn the day and time. Friends are also invited to attend.
Read more and discuss: Family Support at the Center for Family Success
» February 20, 2008 - 0 comments - Children and Families, Community Involvement, Front Page News, Karol's Blog, North Portland
Announcements from the Boise-Eliot neighborhood
Oregonian Story, Friends of Trees Planting, Affordable Housing Roundtable, Senior Soup Day, Community Meeting, Street Fair, Graffiti Clean-up, Fundraiser, Board Position Open
Read more and discuss: Announcements from the Boise-Eliot neighborhood
» February 15, 2008 - 1 comments - Community Involvement, Inner NE, Karol's Blog, North Portland, Sidebar Alerts
Piedmont Neighborhood Association General Meeting
From the Piedmont 'hood: The agenda for the next PNA General meeting (2008-02-27 @ 7:30pm) has been posted to our neighborhood's blog...
Join them for the meeting!
Discuss: Piedmont Neighborhood Association General Meeting
» February 14, 2008 - 0 comments - Community Involvement, Karol's Blog, North Portland, Sidebar Alerts
Farmers market meeting update
Last night the first official meeting of the St. Johns farmers market came together at Marie's. We had over 20 folks who were all excited at the possibility of a market. There were several topics covered including structure, market mission, location and funding. I'll add notes after the jump. One important question that came of out this first meeting was: What location would be best if the market was in St. Johns? Options were: St. Johns plaza in front of Dads, the Signal Station Pizza lot, the vacant car lots, Cathedral Park, and George Park by the community center. Which would you use?
Read more and discuss: Farmers market meeting update
» February 13, 2008 - 1 comments - Community Involvement, Karol's Blog, North Portland, Top Stories
Farmers Market meeting in St. Johns - Tonight
Join us at Marie's at 6:30pm for an informational meeting on a potential St. Johns farmers market. Marie's is located at 8727 N Lombard St.
Discuss: Farmers Market meeting in St. Johns - Tonight
» February 12, 2008 - 1 comments - Community Involvement, Karol's Blog, North Portland, Sidebar Alerts
North Portland loves Friends of Trees
Last weekend, Friends of Trees and their volunteers planted trees through the neighborhoods of St. Johns, Arbor Lodge, University Park, Kenton, Portsmouth and Cathedral Park. Even though it was snowing and very slushy, the volunteers were vibrant and excited to add more trees to the neighborhood.
Friend of Trees is an organization that Jeff proudly supports, evidenced by our web masthead. The pictured volunteers are planting a Japanese Persimmon in a St. Johns yard.
Discuss: North Portland loves Friends of Trees
» February 7, 2008 - 1 comments - Community Involvement, Front Page News, Karol's Blog, North Portland
Farmers Market meeting in St. Johns, Feb 12
Don't forget to be included! There will be a St Johns farmers market meeting Tuesday, Feb 12 at Marie's on Lombard. It will start at 6:30pm.
Discuss: Farmers Market meeting in St. Johns, Feb 12
» February 6, 2008 - 0 comments - Community Involvement, Events, North Portland, Sidebar Alerts
Save the date: Farmers Market meeting Feb 12
A meeting to continue discussing the possibility of a St. Johns Farmers Market will be held Tuesday, Feb. 12th starting a 630pm. We'll keep it efficient. The meeting will be at Marie's at 8727 N Lombard St, across the street from Anna Bannanas.
We'll see you there!
Discuss: Save the date: Farmers Market meeting Feb 12
» February 4, 2008 - 0 comments - Community Involvement, Karol's Blog, North Portland, Sidebar Alerts
Town Hall on Healthcare Feb 6 with Rep. Chip Sheilds
Rep. Chip Shields will host the second of three Town Halls - Feb. 6th from 6:30 - 8:00 p.m. at the Urban League Multicultural Senior Center - 5325 NE MLK Blvd. (enter around back on Garfield). This town hall is focused on health care. Special guests will include Geri Washington, Health Policy Director for Oregon Action; Dr. Bruce Goldberg, Director of the Department of Human Services; and Shelda Holmes, Family Nurse Practitioner and owner of Hands on Medicine primary care clinic in North Portland.
Read more and discuss: Town Hall on Healthcare Feb 6 with Rep. Chip Sheilds
» February 1, 2008 - 0 comments - Community Involvement, Inner NE, North Portland, Sidebar Alerts
African American Read In
From the Library:
Come hear local celebrities and community leaders read from works by their favorite African American writers. There will be fiction and nonfiction for children and adults. Join everyone on Sunday February 3rd from 2pm to 4pm at the North Portland Library, 512 N Killingsworth St.
Discuss: African American Read In
» February 1, 2008 - 0 comments - Children and Families, Events, Karol's Blog, Libraries, North Portland, Top Stories
Piedmont Neighborhood Association General Meeting
Piedmont Neighborhood Association General Meeting
2008-01-30 @ 7:30PM
Holy Redeemer School
Small Hall
127 N. Portland Blvd
Meeting are held downstairs the "Small Hall." The entrance to the Small Hall is through the parking lot off N. Vancouver Ave.
Read more and discuss: Piedmont Neighborhood Association General Meeting
» January 30, 2008 - 0 comments - Community Involvement, Events, Karol's Blog, North Portland, Sidebar Alerts
Potential St. Johns farmers market makes news
We just started talking about a new farmers market for North Portland and we are getting some buzz! Check out this blurb in the Portland Tribune.
Discuss: Potential St. Johns farmers market makes news
» January 29, 2008 - 9 comments - Community Involvement, Front Page News, Karol's Blog, North Portland
Library book sale tomorrow, Jan. 26
The Title Wave book sale is tomorrow! Starting at 10am, come fit all the books you can in a bag and you'll get a special deal. The bookstore is located at: 216 N.E. Knott, Portland, OR 97212. See you there!
Discuss: Library book sale tomorrow, Jan. 26
» January 25, 2008 - 0 comments - Inner NE, Karol's Blog, Libraries, Sidebar Alerts
Farmers Market questions, answers
After our post on a potential farmers market in St. Johns, we received great enthusiasm and positive comments. A couple questions were consistent through the thread: What is our timeline and how would it affect the Kaiser market on Interstate?
First, our timeline is tentative. While we'd love for this to happen by summer 2008, we know that may not be realistic. The next steps are: forming a solid core of volunteers, writing a comprehensive plan to present to donors/sponsors, hiring a market manager, and then getting to the bones of the project that lead to a successful market.
Second, I don't think that our market would negatively affect the Interstate market on Wednesdays. Our hope is that we would support one another in this wonderful project and serve both sides of North Portland.
Thank you for all the wonderful comments and keep checking back for updates on this and many other projects from Commissioner Cogen.
Discuss: Farmers Market questions, answers
» January 25, 2008 - 1 comments - Community Involvement, Karol's Blog, North Portland, Top Stories
Would you use a St. Johns Farmers Market?
Last night an enthusiastic group of neighbors kicked off the first of many meetings to bring a farmers market to neighbors on the Peninsula. Part of making this happen is ensuring we'd have community support for this endeavor. So this is will be one of an occasional post to gauge interest - knowing we won't hit everyone - in a farmers market. If you are regular reader, forward this on to friends in the neighborhood.
Our first set of questions:
1. Would you use a St. Johns Farmers Market? This market could service the surrounding neighborhoods including: Arbor Lodge, Kenton, Portsmouth, University Park, Cathedral Park, Columbia Villa area and Linnton.
2. What kind of content would you like to see in a market?
Discuss: Would you use a St. Johns Farmers Market?
» January 23, 2008 - 138 comments - Community Involvement, Front Page News, Karol's Blog, North Portland
Farmers Market meeting in St. Johns
Today at Marie's Bar there will be a discussion around a potential farmers market for the neighborhood. The meeting starts at 6:30pm. Hope to see you there!
Discuss: Farmers Market meeting in St. Johns
» January 22, 2008 - 0 comments - Community Involvement, Karol's Blog, North Portland, Top Stories
Great find of the day: Po'Shines Cafe de la Soul
There is a lot of action in the North Portland neighborhood of Kenton. Included is a great little shop called Po'Shines Cafe de la Soul. I didn't know much about this place other than it being on my list of places to check out. This article in the Oregonian has given me some inspiration.
The cafe stands in the heart of the transforming Kenton neighborhood at North Denver Avenue and Kilpatrick Street and serves contemporary soul food that rivals menus at trendy Portland lunch spots. Yet its story is far different. The cafe is a nonprofit run by volunteers. And it's showing that a neighborhood revival can be driven by more than affluent white newcomers.
Check it out!
Discuss: Great find of the day: Po'Shines Cafe de la Soul
» January 17, 2008 - 0 comments - Community Involvement, Front Page News, Karol's Blog, North Portland
St Johns' 2nd Annual New Year Gathering - Jan. 19th
Check out this cool event happening this Saturday, Jan. 19th from 5 to 7pm in St Johns. The folks in North Portland always know how to have a good time so stop by and visit your neighbors! Download file
Discuss: St Johns' 2nd Annual New Year Gathering - Jan. 19th
» January 16, 2008 - 0 comments - Events, Front Page News, Karol's Blog, North Portland
Renaming Jefferson High School?
Reading the Willamette Week today, I noticed in the Murmurs column a mention of a small group of people who want to change the name of the Jefferson High. In the column:
“When we talk about Jeffersonian democracy, what we’re really talking about is apartheid. If there were a father of racism in the United States of America, it would be Thomas Jefferson.”
This is something I don't know that anyone if our office has given much thought, but does inspire some conversation. Should a school whose population is mostly people of color be named after a president who arguably is history's most talked about slave owner? All our high schools are named after presidents and will Portland Public Schools break with that tradition? Could renaming this school start an era of success? Let us know what you think.
Discuss: Renaming Jefferson High School?
» January 16, 2008 - 3 comments - Karol's Blog, North Portland, Top Stories
North Portland Scrabble
Last night was Scrabble night at Gotham Tavern in North Portland. I met two cool St. Johns neighbors and about 15 other smart Portlanders who like to play this great board game. This weekly tournament benefits Oregon Literacy - 10% of the night's profits at the Tavern goes to the organization. I finally cracked a 300 game with these folks and I felt a smug satisfaction. Believe me, if you can beat your mom, it doesn't mean you are good. These people are serious; but great fun. Lee, the reigning champion, is a St. Johns neighbor and always generous with his winnings (a $20 gift certificate from the Tavern). Come out and support Oregon Literacy and flex those brain muscles!
Selena, Duncan and Selina
Discuss: North Portland Scrabble
» January 9, 2008 - 1 comments - Community Involvement, Events, Front Page News, Karol's Blog, North Portland
Mayor Potter moving office to Jefferson High School for week of January 14-18
Mayor Potter will spend the the week of the 14th at Jefferson High School in North Portland. The message posted on the Mayor's site:
Mayor Tom Potter is moving City Hall to Jefferson High School for a week to give students, parents and educators a first hand lesson in how government really works - and to showcase the opportunities, successes and challenges facing every school in Portland's six public school districts.The visit begins at first bell at 7:45 a.m. on Monday, January 14th, and concludes with the annual State of the City address on January 18th in the school auditorium. The regular Wednesday City Council meeting will also be held at Jefferson that week in the auditorium.
Read the rest at his website. Other people are getting involved, including the Piedmont neighborhood association:
Read more and discuss: Mayor Potter moving office to Jefferson High School for week of January 14-18
» January 8, 2008 - 0 comments - Children and Families, Community Involvement, Front Page News, Karol's Blog, North Portland
La Posada event with Educate Ya
Visit the Posada Fundraiser on Saturday, December 15th at 7pm and help them celebrate the holiday festivities at our traditional Mexican Posada. Meet at 200 NE 20th Ave, Suite 10 in Portland.
There is no charge, but donations are welcome.
About the tradition:
Every year starting December 16th, and following for nine consecutive nights, children parade from one designated house to another reenacting the story of Mary and Joseph and asking for shelter for the night through traditional songs. They are finally let into one house where a party awaits them! Watch as we act out this tradition and join the party afterwards!
Discuss: La Posada event with Educate Ya
» December 13, 2007 - 0 comments - Community Involvement, Events, Inner NE, Top Stories
Klickitat Street...in the LA Times
A nice story about Beverly Cleary and the monuments to her around NE Portland ran this weekend in the Los Angeles Times. See below:
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
From the Los Angeles Times
ESSAY
The magic of Klickitat Street
Stumbling on the Portland neighborhood that inspired children's writer Beverly Cleary.
By Denise Hamilton
We were driving through the gracious old suburbs of Portland, Ore., searching for a cafe that had gotten raves for its seafood, when I looked up from my map and saw a sign that resonated to the core of my bookworm soul: "Klickitat Street."
Those two words hurtled me through time and place back to childhood and the ragged paperbacks I reread until they became part of my psychic landscape.
Any reader worth her salt knows that Klickitat Street is where Henry Huggins and Ramona and Beezus (née Beatrice) Quimby lived in the classic children's books by Beverly Cleary. For me, they weren't just characters, they were real children, filled with the desires, dilemmas and annoyances that consumed my own life. I could almost hear them playing a few blocks down the street. And I longed to share their adventures.
Read more and discuss: Klickitat Street...in the LA Times
» December 10, 2007 - 1 comments - Children and Families, Community Involvement, Front Page News, Inner NE, Warren's Blog
Multnomah County to offer cell phone recycling
This morning the Board unanimously passed a resolution, brought forth by Commissioner Cogen, to offer cell phone recycling in various county buildings. The buildings chosen are sprinkled all over the county in locations as diverse as the McCoy Building downtown to the Gresham Library. A full list of locations after the jump.
Of the 130 million mobile phones retired annually in the United States every year, less than 1% are recycled, and it is estimated that consumers have stored 500 million obsolete cellular phones that await disposal. Cellular phones in landfills can leach toxic substances into the water and air. Disposal of cellular phones into solid waste in Oregon is a public concern both from a health and resource depletion perspective. Among the toxic metals and other materials present in cellular phones, as reported by the EPA, are:
Lead – can damage the central and peripheral nervous systems, blood systems, and kidneys
Chromium VI – can damage DNA and has been linked to asthmatic bronchitis
Brominated Flame Retardants – act as endocrine disrupters and increase the risk of cancer of the digestive and lymph systems.
This program is also revenue neutral for the County. According to Jeff, "The County’s function is to protect the health and safety of our residents. This is a no-cost way for us to do that by keeping toxics out of our waste stream while supporting local businesses, promoting sustainability and helping provide funding for our libraries and environmental programs."
Read more and discuss: Multnomah County to offer cell phone recycling
» December 6, 2007 - 0 comments - Community Involvement, Front Page News, Inner NE, Karol's Blog, North Portland, Outer NE, Sustainability
Cool stuff at the Albina Library
It's holiday time and the crafty in all of us comes out and rears it's lovely head. What to try something fun? Visit the Albina branch this Saturday at 2pm and get crafty!
Read more and discuss: Cool stuff at the Albina Library
» December 5, 2007 - 0 comments - Inner NE, Karol's Blog, Libraries, Sidebar Alerts
St Johns' holiday decorating!
From St. Johns neighborhood association:
Hello Neighbors and fellow St. Johnsians...
One Saturday next; December 1st, a group of folks are getting together to do a little work. Christmas season is upon us, as is winter. Two tasks need a little attention and I am coming to you as I know if you can, you will.
Read more and discuss: St Johns' holiday decorating!
» November 29, 2007 - 0 comments - Community Involvement, Events, Front Page News, Karol's Blog, North Portland
Get 55 percent off during the Title Wave’s day-after-Thanksgiving sale
From the libraries:
PORTLAND, OR — Come into The Title Wave Used Bookstore during its annual Customer Appreciation Sale on the day after Thanksgiving and save 55 percent on most purchases — used books, audiobooks, CDs, DVDs and more. The sale begins at 8 a.m. on Friday, Nov. 23, and continues until 4 p.m.
During those hours, some lucky customers will find the treasures hidden throughout the store: gift certificates, gifts and coupons for even bigger discounts (limit one treasure per customer).
Proceeds from the volunteer-operated bookstore benefit Multnomah County Library.
The Title Wave is located at 216 N.E. Knott St., Portland. Regular store hours are Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information, visit Title Wave or call 503.988.5021.
Discuss: Get 55 percent off during the Title Wave’s day-after-Thanksgiving sale
» November 21, 2007 - 0 comments - Events, Front Page News, Inner NE, Karol's Blog, Libraries
Boise Neighborhood Update
Boise Neighborhood Association is always involved and active. If you live in or around Boise and want to see whats going on, click below and read on!
Read more and discuss: Boise Neighborhood Update
» November 20, 2007 - 0 comments - Community Involvement, Events, Front Page News,