Front Page News

Traffic changes for July 4th events

Several Multnomah County roads and one bridge will see traffic changes during firework displays and community events on the Fourth of July.

On the Hawthorne Bridge, sidewalks will close at 8:00 pm and the outside traffic lanes will close at 9:00 pm. All lanes and sidewalks will reopen after the fireworks show ends at approximately 10:30 pm. Depending on the wind direction, the entire bridge may be closed for public safety prior to the fireworks display at 10:00 pm.

NE Marine Drive will be closed from 9:00 pm to 11:00 pm between NE 185th Ave. in the City of Portland and NE 223rd Ave. in the City of Fairview for a fireworks display at Blue Lake Park. Travelers should use alternate routes such as Sandy Blvd. or Interstate 84. NE 223rd Ave. is closed between NE Halsey St. and NE Sandy Blvd. due to construction. Access to NE Marine Drive will be maintained at all times for local residents and emergency vehicles. (NE Marine Drive is maintained by the City of Portland west of NE Interlachen Lane and by Multnomah County east of Interlachen.)

Read more and discuss: Traffic changes for July 4th events

» July 2, 2009 - 1 comments - Front Page News

Want to be a Master Recycler?

There is a Master Recycler course coming up for all those who want to participate. There's even a class in Español! Check out this link for details.

Discuss: Want to be a Master Recycler?

» July 1, 2009 - 0 comments - Front Page News, Karol's Blog, Sustainability

Money directly impacting North and Northeast Portland from the State

From Representative Chip Shields:

Directly Impacting North/Northeast Portland:
$3.2 million restored to Oregon Project Independence funding to help seniors, including those served by the Urban League. (HB 5054-A)

$150,000 to The Skanner Foundation for continuation funding for the neighborhood multi-media training center in North Portland. (HB 5054-A)

Over $1 million for funding civil rights enforcement in the Oregon Department of Justice and Bureau of Labor and Industries.
Restored all cuts to funding for Multnomah County gang services ($772,937) and added another $800,000 for gang services in East Multnomah County. (HB 5054-A)

Funding for Project Clean Slate in the Oregon Department of Justice budget.

$1.5 million commitment from the Governor's office for Justice Assistance Grants to fund offender re-entry one-stop centers in Portland, Eugene and Klamath Falls.

Over $100 million to expand Head Start at places like Albina Head Start.

Continued funding of the PCC Skill Center on the PCC Cascade Campus.
$8.9 million to help abused kids through programs like Cares Northwest.

Read more and discuss: Money directly impacting North and Northeast Portland from the State

» June 30, 2009 - 0 comments - Budget, Front Page News, Inner NE, Karol's Blog, North Portland

Good in the Hood Parade 2009

Discuss: Good in the Hood Parade 2009

» June 29, 2009 - 0 comments - Community Involvement, Events, Front Page News, Inner NE, Neighborhoods, Warren's Blog

A Big Thank You From County CROPS

One thing we've learned from County CROPS is that Multnomah County (and Clackamas and Washington County) are filled with incredible people and organizations that are willing to come together in a time of need. Our "little" project has a thousand moving parts, and people from all over our community have stepped up to provide donations, advice and moral support.

We wanted to take a moment today to thank some of the folks who have made this project possible. In addition to our financial sponsors, McMenamin's Hotels & Pubs and Portland General Electric, these are the amazing people and organizations who have donated materials, advice and time:

Read more and discuss: A Big Thank You From County CROPS

» June 25, 2009 - 1 comments - Community Involvement, County CROPS, Front Page News, Marissa's Blog, Sustainability

Burnside Bridge to close for Sunday morning run June 28th

The Burnside Bridge will close to street and river traffic on Sunday morning, June 28 during the annual Beat the Burnside run. The bridge, which is the finish line for the run, will be closed to street traffic from 6:00 am to 10:00 am. The bridge lift span will not open for river traffic from 8:40 am to 10:00 am. The bridge will remain open to bicyclists and pedestrians except during a brief bridge opening at the end of the race.

During the closure, TriMet bus lines 12-Sandy, 19-Glisan, and 20-Burnside will be rerouted across the Morrison Bridge.

Also this weekend, the traffic pattern on the Hawthorne Bridge will change due to the removal of a construction crane in downtown Portland at SW First Ave. and SW Main St. From 7:00 pm on Friday, June 26 until as late as 5:00 am on Monday, June 29 only one traffic lane will be open in each direction on the bridge. Westbound traffic will be diverted from the bridge onto SW Madison St. which will have two-way traffic between SW 1st Ave. and SW 2nd Ave. The westbound offramp from the bridge to SW Main St. will be closed due to the crane removal. Flaggers will direct traffic at the west end of the bridge during the weekend.

Multnomah County maintains the Burnside and Hawthorne bridges and more than 300 miles of roads and bridges.

Discuss: Burnside Bridge to close for Sunday morning run June 28th

» June 24, 2009 - 0 comments - Front Page News

Suicide rate highest among older males in Multnomah County

Multnomah County, like Oregon and the U.S., has higher rates of suicide deaths among men aged 65 years and older, according to a new report released by Multnomah County Health Department. The Spring 2009 issue of Community Health Assessment Quarterly found that in the 2001-05 period in Multnomah County, men who were 65 years and older had over five times the suicide rate of women in the same age group. Among men in the county, the suicide rate appears to increase with age. In 2003, Oregon had the 4th highest suicide death rate among adults aged 65 or older.

“This troubling pattern will most likely continue as baby boomers age and swell the numbers of older adults in Oregon. It is likely that the numbers of suicide deaths in this age group will also rise,” said Multnomah County Health Department Director Lillian Shirley.

Read more and discuss: Suicide rate highest among older males in Multnomah County

» June 24, 2009 - 0 comments - Front Page News, Human Services, Karol's Blog

Free wireless Internet access available at county Board meetings

Multnomah County now offers WiFi in the Boardroom at the Multnomah Building, at 501 SE Hawthorne. The public and members of the media can access the wireless internet free of charge from 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. when attending meetings in the Boardroom.

Multnomah County installed WiFi after numerous requests from members of the press and community groups who felt that having access to the internet during meetings would enable them to perform their jobs more effectively.

The board clerk worked closely with county Information Technology and Multnomah County Library staff, who generously shared their acceptable use policy and lessons learned from offering public WiFi at branches, saving the county time and money. County technical staff were also able to use many of the same configurations and settings they developed when setting up the library’s WiFi service.

Having WiFi available in the Boardroom will enable the press and public to use online resources in real time to make meetings more accessible and encourage the public to be more involved in the political process.

Discuss: Free wireless Internet access available at county Board meetings

» June 23, 2009 - 0 comments - Front Page News, Karol's Blog

The Carrot Mob is coming to Hot Lips Pizza

Do you know what a Carrot Mob is? I didn't either, until I was introduced to it by the Multnomah Youth Commission:

Several Central Catholic High School students are determined to bring Carrotmob to Portland to encourage businesses to do their part in the battle against global warming.

On June 21 (Father‟s Day), Carrotmob Portland will hold a "reverse boycott" at HOTLIPS Pizza on 22nd and SE Hawthorne from 11 a.m. – 7 p.m. Every dollar spent will go directly towards making HOTLIPS more energy efficient. In addition to helping the environment, the event promises to be a lot of fun: Carrotmob has lined up musicians to play in HOTLIPS' closed-off parking lot all day, and there will be a fair of other environmentally-focused organizations.

Read more and discuss: The Carrot Mob is coming to Hot Lips Pizza

» June 18, 2009 - 0 comments - Front Page News

Justice for Janitors Rally!

Jeff gave a rousing speech at today's Justice for Janitors rally put on by SEIU. Check out the pics:

Discuss: Justice for Janitors Rally!

» June 15, 2009 - 0 comments - Community Involvement, County CROPS, Dan's Blog, Front Page News, Homeless, Human Services, Karol's Blog

Jeff shows his PRIDE

We had a great time this weekend marching in the 2009 PRIDE Parade. Check out these great pics:

Discuss: Jeff shows his PRIDE

» June 15, 2009 - 0 comments - Community Involvement, Front Page News, Karol's Blog

Reuse Week celebration at Community Warehouse

Thanks to Community Warehouse, SCRAP, Free Geek, Schoolhouse Supplies, ReStore and all the other reuse organizations!

Discuss: Reuse Week celebration at Community Warehouse

» June 12, 2009 - 0 comments - Children and Families, Community Involvement, Front Page News, Human Services, Karol's Blog, Sustainability

PAL Camp, Apply Today!

PAL Camp is run by the Police Activities League. Boys and girls, ages 8-14, who live in Multnomah, Washington, Clackamas and Clark County who believe in good sportsmanship and want to improve their sports skills are invited to apply for a spot. A minimum of 51% of youth must qualify for a free or reduced lunch program, however, all youth will receive lunch at the camp. This is a great way to make sure lots of kids in our community get to attend summer camp. But apply fast, because they can only take 500 kids.
Application: Download file

Bus Routes: Download file

Discuss: PAL Camp, Apply Today!

» June 11, 2009 - 0 comments - Children and Families, Community Involvement, Front Page News, Warren's Blog

Photo progress of the County CROPS farm

Discuss: Photo progress of the County CROPS farm

» June 11, 2009 - 0 comments - Community Involvement, County CROPS, Dan's Blog, Front Page News, Human Services, Karol's Blog, Sustainability

Climate Action Plan Town Halls

The City of Portland and Multnomah County have drafted a new action plan to lead our community forward in the charge against global warming. The draft 2009 Climate Action Plan is a strategy to decrease local carbon emissions 80 percent by 2050.

The plan identifies high-level goals and specific actions to be accomplished in the next three years to accelerate local efforts to address this issue.

Everything from high-level policy changes and expanded bicycle master plans to on-the-ground, every day practices like insulating our homes, walking to the grocery store and eating less red meat can mean a healthier planet, and healthier families, if we all pitch in.

Join your friends and neighbors to discuss the Climate Action Plan at one of the neighborhood Town Halls listed below. We need your help to shape this strategy.

Read more and discuss: Climate Action Plan Town Halls

» June 10, 2009 - 1 comments - Community Involvement, Front Page News, Karol's Blog, Sustainability

Low-cost rabies shots and microchips offered at Animal Services this Saturday, June 13th

On Saturday, June 13 from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., Multnomah County Animal Services (MCAS) will provide low-cost rabies shots and microchips at their shelter located at 1700 W. Historic Columbia River Highway in Troutdale. Rabies shots are $10 and microchips are $20 and will be administered by the shelter’s veterinarian on a first-come, first-served basis. Please bring dogs on leashes and cats in carriers.

All dogs and cats in Multnomah County are required by law to be licensed. Licenses will be available for purchase or renewal and there are no penalties or late fees for renewing expired licenses. Pets must be licensed to receive a microchip, so please bring proof of license if not from Multnomah County. License prices vary with type of animal and spay/neuter status.

Check out the new kitty cam!

Read more and discuss: Low-cost rabies shots and microchips offered at Animal Services this Saturday, June 13th

» June 10, 2009 - 0 comments - Community Involvement, Front Page News, Karol's Blog

Mosquitoes are buzzing – are you prepared?

With mosquito season in full swing, public health officials are reminding people that mosquitoes can transmit a number of diseases, including the potentially serious West Nile Virus (WNV). West Nile Virus has been present in Washington since 2002 and in Oregon since 2004. Its spread is unpredictable, but many areas of the country have shown a significant increase in cases years after the introduction of the virus. Yakima County has already seen WNV-positive mosquitoes this spring, one of the earliest detections of the disease in Washington.

The following prevention tips can reduce the risk of exposure to West Nile Virus:

Read more and discuss: Mosquitoes are buzzing – are you prepared?

» June 9, 2009 - 0 comments - Front Page News, Human Services, Karol's Blog

Video: ReUse Week starts June 10th

Visit all our ReUse Week Partners!
SCRAP, The ReBuilding Center, Schoolhouse Supplies, Free Geek and Community Warehouse

Visit Commissioner Nick Fish here.

Discuss: Video: ReUse Week starts June 10th

» June 8, 2009 - 0 comments - Community Involvement, Front Page News, Karol's Blog

Prep Work Begins on the CROPS Garden!

Our Community Service crews are hard at work clearing blackberries and prepping the soil for our first volunteer day at what locals affectionately call the "Pig Farm". There is still time left to sign up, just go to Hands On Greater Portland to reserve your spot. All produce grown on the site will be distributed to those in need by the Oregon Food Bank Network.

Here's what the garden site looked like last week:

Take a look at the site today, after the jump:

Read more and discuss: Prep Work Begins on the CROPS Garden!

» June 5, 2009 - 0 comments - Front Page News, Human Services, Marissa's Blog

Community Immunization Clinic will move to new location

The Multnomah County Health Department Community Immunization Clinic is moving to a new location effective June 22, 2009. The clinic, located at 5329 NE Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd (corner of MLK and Killingsworth), will move downtown to 426 SW Stark Street, 3rd Floor, where several other Health Department services are located. The clinic will be open on Mondays by appointment (503.988.3828 Ext. 26692) and Tuesdays on a walk-in basis. The clinic is accessible by all major bus lines and by MAX.

The last walk-in clinic at the MLK location will be Tuesday, June 9. There will be no immunization services on Thursday, June 11 and the week of June 15 during the period of the move.

The June and July clinic schedules can be accessed online at www.mchealth.org/immunizations or by calling 503.988.3828 Ext. 26692.

Discuss: Community Immunization Clinic will move to new location

» June 5, 2009 - 0 comments - Children and Families, Front Page News, Human Services, Inner NE, Karol's Blog, North Portland

Chair Wheeler's budget message to employees

Dear Multnomah County Employees,

Today we see the result of months of work as the Board of County Commissioners adopted the FY 2009-10 Multnomah County Budget.

This budget is a result of the hard work of many people and is built on some of the frankest conversations I have experienced among fellow commissioners, county staff and members of the public. I especially want to thank county leadership and community advocates for their efforts in guiding our understanding of the issues. I also would like to recognize the sacrifice and contributions of more than 65 percent of county employees who will forego wage increases. Salary savings, along with our targeted pursuit of new revenue, helped to lessen the blow of the largest budget shortfall in decades.

The impact of this budget is tremendously sobering – every county department has taken reductions – and programs, services, and jobs were eliminated. Many individuals have struggled with the difficult choices that this budget has required. The task ahead is equally sobering as we look to find long-term savings to meet the upcoming state budget reductions. I know that these decisions will not be easy, but I pledge to make them with thoughtfulness and compassion for the people whose lives are affected.

One common theme that has surfaced is the need for flexibility to respond to a rapidly changing environment. On a daily basis, I have learned something new about how the county does business and how we can do better.

Read more and discuss: Chair Wheeler's budget message to employees

» June 4, 2009 - 0 comments - Budget, Front Page News, Karol's Blog

Video: County CROPS project to feed hungry people

Do you want to help at the farm? Visit Hands On Greater Portland here.

Comments or questions? Email our farm manager, Dan Bravin.

Discuss: Video: County CROPS project to feed hungry people

» June 3, 2009 - 8 comments - Community Involvement, Front Page News, Human Services, Karol's Blog, Sustainability

Burnside Bridge to close for Rose Festival Parade - June 6th

The Burnside Bridge will close to motor vehicle and river traffic on Saturday, June 6 from 7:00 am to 2:00 pm for the Portland Rose Festival’s Grand Floral Parade. TriMet bus lines 12, 19 and 20 will be detoured across the Steel Bridge while the Burnside Bridge is closed. Alternate routes when the Burnside Bridge is closed include the Morrison, Hawthorne and Broadway bridges.

The Rose Festival fleet makes its annual return to Portland’s downtown seawall this week. The fleet includes vessels from the U.S. Navy and Coast Guard and the Canadian Navy. Vessels will arrive on Wednesday and Thursday afternoons before the evening commute. The fleet will dock between the Steel and Morrison bridges. Ships are scheduled to depart on Monday, June 8, before and after the morning commute.

Several downtown drawbridges will need to open for ship arrivals and departures. Drawbridges that will open include the Broadway, Steel and Burnside. Motorists can avoid delays by using bridges south of the Burnside Bridge.

Multnomah County maintains six Willamette River bridges and 300 miles of roads.

Discuss: Burnside Bridge to close for Rose Festival Parade - June 6th

» June 2, 2009 - 0 comments - Front Page News

Public workshops seek input for Bonny Slope West plan

The public is invited to a series of evening workshops to share ideas on land use concepts for an unincorporated area of Multnomah County that is within the region’s Urban Growth Boundary. The workshops will be held Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, June 2 – 4, from 7 pm to 8:30 pm each night at the Leedy Grange, 835 NW Saltzman Road.

The area, known as Bonny Slope West, includes roughly 160 acres and is less than a mile west of the City of Portland boundary. The area is semi-rural but has been designated by the Metro regional government as an urban expansion area. Such areas are required to have a concept plan to guide future urban development. In addition to identifying land uses, the concept plan will help determine the locations of future roads and utilities and which agencies will build and maintain them. The plan will set the stage for how the area will urbanize and will identify urban service costs and options for getting it development ready.

Read more and discuss: Public workshops seek input for Bonny Slope West plan

» June 1, 2009 - 1 comments - Community Involvement, Front Page News, Karol's Blog

County CROPS passes; farm will be created to feed poor people

Jeff's resolution to create a “County CROPS – Community Reaps Our Produce and Shares,” an agricultural project intended feed hungry people passed with 4 votes; Commissioner McKeel was absent. Check out the news coverage:

The Oregonian
The Portland Tribune
OPB

Discuss: County CROPS passes; farm will be created to feed poor people

» May 28, 2009 - 3 comments - Community Involvement, Front Page News, Karol's Blog, Sustainability

Multnomah County and City of Portland Kick Off Oregonians Against Trafficking Humans Campaign

Multnomah County Commissioner Diane McKeel and Portland City Commissioner Dan Saltzman will be kicking off the Oregonians Against Trafficking Humans campaign and will discuss the resolutions they are bringing before their respective councils. Speakers will talk about what is currently being done to combat human trafficking and what work is still needed. There will also be information about the upcoming Sexually Exploited Youth Conference being held at Reynolds High School, 1698 SW Cherry Park RD Troutdale, OR 97060 on May 21st, 2009.

Read more and discuss: Multnomah County and City of Portland Kick Off Oregonians Against Trafficking Humans Campaign

» May 19, 2009 - 0 comments - Community Involvement, Front Page News, Human Services, Karol's Blog

"Sy Award" Nominations -- Multnomah County Citizen Involvement Committee (CIC)

Do you know someone who has demonstrated a lifelong commitment to justice, equality, and obtaining access to the halls of power? The Multnomah County Citizen Involvement Committee (CIC) is seeking nominees for the 2nd Annual “SY Award”. The nomination and selection process is open to all personnel, committees, agencies, and departments within County government as well as the community at large.

Read more and discuss: "Sy Award" Nominations -- Multnomah County Citizen Involvement Committee (CIC)

» May 19, 2009 - 0 comments - Community Involvement, Front Page News, Karol's Blog

St Johns Farmers Market meeting May 21st

Please join us for the next Farmers Market meeting! Thursday, May 21, 7 pm at the North Portland Police Precinct. Check out the brand new market website!

Discuss: St Johns Farmers Market meeting May 21st

» May 18, 2009 - 0 comments - Front Page News

Responding to the State Revenue Forecast

From Chair Wheeler's office:

Today’s state revenue forecast brings more difficult news. Final budget decisions from the Oregon legislature will take time, but we estimate that Multnomah County will lose $25 million to $50 million in state-funded services based on today’s forecast.

The Governor’s proposed budget in January reduced services for seniors, mental health and substance abuse treatment, dental care and supervision of offenders in the community by up to 90%, assuming a much smaller shortfall. The legislature’s budget choices will differ, but reductions are likely in any event.

Multnomah County will probably face two rounds of service reductions. Between now and June 4 we will reduce services to match county budget resources. Soon after that, the final state budget will likely necessitate a second round of cuts.

Read more and discuss: Responding to the State Revenue Forecast

» May 15, 2009 - 0 comments - Front Page News

Basic Rights Oregon fashion show is coming up - May 16th

Team Cogen are strong supporters of Basic Rights Oregon and in the fourth year, the STRUT Fashion Show has gotten better and better. Join the fun this Saturday night! Watch this great ad:

Discuss: Basic Rights Oregon fashion show is coming up - May 16th

» May 14, 2009 - 0 comments - Community Involvement, Front Page News, Karol's Blog

LGBT Senior Resource Fair, May 16th

From Share and Q Center:

Please join SHARE and Friends for the first annual Senior Housing and Retirement Enterprises Resource Fair. For the first time ever, senir healthcare providers will directly marketing to the LGBT senior community. Your presence at this historic event will be one more step in validating and bringing awareness to the needs of this unique group of seniors. Please join us for a wonderful day.

4115 N Mississippi Ave, 97217 or SHAREpdx.org

Discuss: LGBT Senior Resource Fair, May 16th

» May 14, 2009 - 0 comments - Community Involvement, Front Page News, Karol's Blog, North Portland

Broadway Bridge closed on Sunday - May 17th

The Broadway Bridge will be closed to all users on Sunday, May 17 from 7:00 am until as late as 5:00 pm for an inspection. The closure will allow a crew to complete a required inspection of the lift span deck that was installed several years ago. TriMet’s 9-Broadway bus line will be re-routed across the Steel Bridge during the closure. The work will not impact river traffic.
River traffic will be affected by a benefit walk across the Hawthorne Bridge on Sunday. The bridge lift span will not open for river traffic from 1:00 pm to 2:30 pm.

Multnomah County maintains the Broadway and Hawthorne bridges, four other Willamette River bridges, and 300 miles of roads.

Discuss: Broadway Bridge closed on Sunday - May 17th

» May 14, 2009 - 0 comments - Front Page News, Karol's Blog

Follow Jeff on Twitter!

I've been on Twitter for a bit - a proud early adapter - and I'd love to have more followers. My name there is CogenD2.

Discuss: Follow Jeff on Twitter!

» May 12, 2009 - 0 comments - Front Page News

County gets a grant to retrofit diesel trucks

Multnomah County has received grant money to retrofit our diesel trucks to reduce dangerous emissions. Check out the slide show:

Discuss: County gets a grant to retrofit diesel trucks

» May 12, 2009 - 3 comments - Front Page News

Jeff at the St Johns Parade

Check out a great update at Lelo in Nopo!

Discuss: Jeff at the St Johns Parade

» May 12, 2009 - 4 comments - Community Involvement, Front Page News, Karol's Blog, North Portland

Car rental tax increase passes in Multnomah County

The Multnomah County Board of County Commissioners passed an ordinance change – introduced by Commissioner Jeff Cogen – to increase the current Motor Vehicle Rental Tax (MVRT) from 12.5 percent to 17 percent. The increase is estimated to raise an additional $4.7 million for the County’s General Fund.

The increase brought various out supporters from around the County. Their main concerns were funding social services and public safety. Twenty residents testified, mostly in favor of the 4.5% increase. There were also over 60 supporters; most of whom stood when Alisa Keny-Guyer was testifying in favor of funding programs for children and families.

“This is a once in a lifetime financial crisis and it requires bold action from leaders who can make a difference,” said Cogen. “While this doesn’t close our $45 million dollar budget deficit, it is part of a balanced solution that will protect vulnerable populations while not shifting the burden to middle class families in Multnomah County.”

The ordinance passed with all commissioners present in favor. Commissioner Shiprack was absent but expressed her support through Chair Wheeler.

Discuss: Car rental tax increase passes in Multnomah County

» May 7, 2009 - 3 comments - Budget, Front Page News, Karol's Blog

County Receives Clean Diesel Grant Funding

Multnomah County and the City of Portland jointly received $498,000 in grant funds yesterday from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and Oregon Department of Environmental Quality to fund clean diesel retrofits on County and City owned heavy diesel construction equipment. In a ceremony at the City Fleet Department's Kirby Garage, Commissioner Cogen spoke about the very serious health impacts of diesel emissions, and the County's plans to retrofit our own fleet of diesel construction vehicles. Commissioner Cogen has led Multnomah County's effort to reduce construction diesel emissions in our community, which are surprisingly put out more diesel pollution each year than all the diesel trucks, cars and busses on our roads. Pictured below are Dick Pedersen, Director, DEQ, Michelle Pirsadeh, Regional Administrator, EPA Region 10, Sam Adams, Mayor, Portland, and Jeff Cogen, Commissioner, Multnomah County.

View image

Discuss: County Receives Clean Diesel Grant Funding

» May 6, 2009 - 0 comments - Events, Front Page News, Inner NE, North Portland, Sustainability, Warren's Blog

Swine flu update - letter to employees

As of Monday, May 4, Oregon public health officials have confirmed 18 cases of the virus in five counties. The seven people with confirmed cases of H1N1 virus in Multnomah County are recovering.

Read more and discuss: Swine flu update - letter to employees

» May 5, 2009 - 0 comments - Front Page News, Human Services, Karol's Blog, Public Safety

Food defense project targets restaurants

A $40,000 grant to Multnomah County Health Department from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) will help local restaurants prepare for and respond to intentional food contamination. Guidance is currently available for the retail industry but has not been developed for the restaurant industry. The Health Department’s Food Safety program is working directly with restaurateurs to craft a meaningful toolkit and communication plan. The county’s pilot project will lay the groundwork for future policy development, and will provide guidelines and tools for faster response to emergency situations.

Read more and discuss: Food defense project targets restaurants

» May 5, 2009 - 0 comments - Front Page News, Human Services, Karol's Blog

Jeff in the news - East County courthouse

GRESHAM -- Life in the east Multnomah County Courthouse works like this: If defense attorneys want to meet privately with clients, they have to use the kitchen.

When an office flooded in December, the smell of mold was so strong, staff members still complained of head and chest aches three weeks later. And on rainy days, buckets line the courtroom floor, waiting to catch water that has leaked from the roof for years.

Discuss: Jeff in the news - East County courthouse

» May 5, 2009 - 0 comments - Budget, Front Page News, Karol's Blog, Public Safety

Clean Energy Fund

Last week, the Oregonian and Tribune wrote stories on a home energy efficiency program Commissioner Cogen is developing in partnership with the City of Portland and Energy Trust of Oregon. Oregonian story, Tribune story. The pilot project, called the Clean Energy Fund, will help homeowners weatherize their houses by giving them access to low-interest financing repayable via their utility bills and expert project facilitation assistance. Our goal is to launch this summer and to complete 500 home audits and energy efficiency retrofits by next summer. If you have any questions on the program, please call our office or read the FAQ page here.

Discuss: Clean Energy Fund

» May 4, 2009 - 0 comments - Front Page News, News, Sustainability, Warren's Blog

St. Johns Ivy Pull - Get Involved! May 2nd

DATE: Saturday May 2nd

TIME: 9AM - 2PM.

LOCATION: Ivy Island - right next to Weirs' Cyclery!

DETAILS:
Join us May 2nd (Saturday) for the Ivy pull on Ivy island, The entryway to St Johns will be replanted this fall with drought-tolerant, Native-Oregon plants. But first we need to get the Ivy out!

Read more and discuss: St. Johns Ivy Pull - Get Involved! May 2nd

» May 4, 2009 - 0 comments - Front Page News

Library’s used bookstore closed for construction May 4-30

The Title Wave Used Bookstore will be closed from Monday, May 4, through Saturday, May 30, during the construction of an access ramp to the store. The Title Wave will reopen on Monday, June 1.

Proceeds from the volunteer-operated Title Wave Used 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, call 503.988.5021.

Discuss: Library’s used bookstore closed for construction May 4-30

» May 1, 2009 - 0 comments - Front Page News, Inner NE, Karol's Blog, Libraries

Asesoria a Medios de Comunicacion

Fecha: Abril 30, 2009

Contacto: Althea Milechman, Condado de Multnomah, 503-969-7239

Sesion Informativa para los Medios de Comunicacion sobre la Gripa Porcina en Mayo 1

Que
Oficiales de Salud regionales y lideres de la Comunidad Latina, presentaran una sesion informativa en Español sobre el brote de la gripa porcina y las acciones que se toman en la region.

Quien
Jennifer Vines, MD , Oficial de Salud del Condado de Columbia, Oficial de Salud Adjunto de los Condados de Clark, Skamania, Wahkiakum, and Cowlitz
Gary Oxman, MD, MPH, Oficial de Salud por los Condados de Multnomah, Clackamas, y Washington
John Cardenas, Presidente de la Asociacion Ciudades Hermanas Portland/Guadalajara
Enrique A. Romero Cuevas, Consul de Mexico

Cuando
viernes, mayo 1, 2009
10:00 – 10:30 am

Donde
Edificio Multnomah
501 SE Hawthorne Blvd.
Portland, Oregon 97214
Sexto Piso
Sala de Conferencias 625

Discuss: Asesoria a Medios de Comunicacion

» April 30, 2009 - 0 comments - Front Page News, Karol's Blog

Schedule of County budget hearings

Tuesday, May 5 - 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
North Portland Library, Second Floor Meeting Room, 512 North Killingsworth Street, Portland

Wednesday, May 13 - 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Multnomah County East Building, Sharron Kelley Rooms, 600 NE 8th Street, Gresham

Monday, May 18 - 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
(IRCO) Gymnasium, 10301 NE Glisan, Portland
Hosted by Coalition of Communities of Color at the Immigrant and Refugee Community Organization

Tuesday, May 26 - 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Multnomah Building, Commissioners Boardroom

Discuss: Schedule of County budget hearings

» April 29, 2009 - 0 comments - Budget, Community Involvement, Front Page News, Karol's Blog

Proposal to increase the rental car tax May 7th

On May 7th, the Board of Commissioners will hear Jeff's proposal to raise the motor vehicle rental tax from 12.5% to 17%. This proposed increase - in Multnomah County only - is projected to raise $5 million dollars in new revenue. This revenue, while not closing the gap in the County budget, will help prevent some cuts to vital human services.

Read more about Chair Wheeler's proposed budget here.

Watch Jeff's budget discussion here.

Do you support protecting human services? Let your commissioners know here.

Discuss: Proposal to increase the rental car tax May 7th

» April 29, 2009 - 0 comments - Budget, Front Page News, Karol's Blog

Multnomah County Plants a “Hope Garden”

In honor of Earth Day, The Multnomah County Board of County Commissioners has adopted a resolution to establish an organic vegetable garden at its county headquarters building and donate the harvest to hungry families.

Multnomah County and the City of Portland are partnering to plant organic vegetable gardens at their respective headquarters to recognize the growing community interest in local food systems and to inspire residents to plant their own edible gardens. “Growing food is a great way for a family to reduce food costs, spend time together, and to assist hungry families,” said Multnomah County Commissioner Judy Shiprack.

Read more and discuss: Multnomah County Plants a “Hope Garden”

» April 23, 2009 - 0 comments - Front Page News, Karol's Blog, Sustainability

Chair Wheeler slated to release Fiscal Year 2010 budget proposal April 23

On Thursday, April 23 at the regular meeting of the Board of County Commissioners, Multnomah County Chair Ted Wheeler will release his Executive Budget for Fiscal Year 2010. The meeting can be seen via streaming video at http://www2.co.multnomah.or.us/cc/live_broadcast.shtml

Due to an unprecedented set of economic challenges and after nearly a decade of continuous cuts to county programs and services, Multnomah County faces a budget shortfall of $46 million dollars over the next two years, in addition to substantial cuts from the State of Oregon that have yet to be determined.

Read more and discuss: Chair Wheeler slated to release Fiscal Year 2010 budget proposal April 23

» April 22, 2009 - 0 comments - Front Page News

County forum to save human services

From the Services Employees International Union:
Attend the Multnomah County forum to save our human services. Join us Tuesday, April 28th, from 4:30 to 7pm. We'll host this event at 501 SE Hawthorne in the first floor boardroom.

Read more and discuss: County forum to save human services

» April 21, 2009 - 0 comments - Budget, Community Involvement, Front Page News, Karol's Blog

Video: Jeff wins a health hero award

Discuss: Video: Jeff wins a health hero award

» April 21, 2009 - 0 comments - Front Page News, Human Services, Karol's Blog, Videos

Video: What Portland looks like in 50 years

Discuss: Video: What Portland looks like in 50 years

» April 21, 2009 - 0 comments - Front Page News, Karol's Blog, Sustainability, Videos

Video: Coffee with Cogen - The County's budget

For more information on the County's budget and the public hearings, click here.

Discuss: Video: Coffee with Cogen - The County's budget

» April 21, 2009 - 0 comments - Budget, Front Page News, Karol's Blog, Videos

Friends of Pier Park cleanup complete with Tulip Bakery pastries

The annual SOLV-IT Pier Park Pick-Up is scheduled for this Saturday, April 18th from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. We will have assorted donuts and apple fritters from Tulip Bakery as well as hot coffee donated by Starbucks! This year we will meet at the turn-around entrance to Pier Park near the first hole of the disc golf course.

Among other things we will be removing invasive ivy and planting natives, removing graffiti from the skate park and picking up litter. Your help is surely appreciated.

To register with SOLV, please go online
and scroll down the page to SOLV-It sites listed under Multnomah County. Select Pier Park Pick-Up and "Register."

Donuts and do-gooding - sounds like a party to us!

Discuss: Friends of Pier Park cleanup complete with Tulip Bakery pastries

» April 17, 2009 - 0 comments - Community Involvement, Front Page News, Karol's Blog, North Portland, Sustainability

Jeff in the news - Climate change plan

Local governments set targets to battle climate change, Portland Tribune

Portland, Multnomah County unveil 40-year climate plan, The Oregonian

Discuss: Jeff in the news - Climate change plan

» April 17, 2009 - 3 comments - Front Page News

Morrison Bridge closure rescheduled for this weekend

The Morrison Bridge will be closed this weekend, from 4 am on Saturday, April 18 until as late as 6:00 am on Monday, April 20, so that traffic lanes can be reconfigured for a construction project. The bridge will reopen as soon as work is completed. A contractor is building a new path for bicyclists and pedestrians across the south side of the Morrison Bridge. The work is weather dependent and may be rescheduled in the event of heavy rain.

Read more and discuss: Morrison Bridge closure rescheduled for this weekend

» April 16, 2009 - 1 comments - Front Page News

Neighborhood farmers markets opening up!

Our favorite neighborhoods are opening up the farmers markets in the next few weeks. Check them out:

Parkrose - May 2nd from 8am to 2pm
King - May 3rd from 10am to 2pm through Sept. 27th
St. Johns - July 11th from 9am to 2pm

Discuss: Neighborhood farmers markets opening up!

» April 16, 2009 - 0 comments - Front Page News

Coffee with Cogen: April 17th at Tiny's on MLK

Jeff is starting a little coffee talk here in district two. Starting April 17th through July 3rd, Jeff will be visiting local coffee shops and discussing the County's budget process. We'll be posting the chats online, but if you'd like to join us, you are more than welcome!

Coffee with Cogen
April 17th, 12:15 to 1:00pm
Tiny's on MLK
2031 NE Martin Luther King Jr.

Come on down!

Discuss: Coffee with Cogen: April 17th at Tiny's on MLK

» April 15, 2009 - 0 comments - Front Page News

New Leadership Oregon accepting applications for programs

From Sunny Petit, National Education for Women's Leadership Oregon:

We are still accepting applications for NLO 2009! We have received several fantastic applications and we're hoping that you can help us keep the ball rolling by getting the word out to students either by recruiting them in person to apply or by forwarding our website information and application. The application deadline is April 30th.
www.newleadershiporegon.org

Read more and discuss: New Leadership Oregon accepting applications for programs

» April 15, 2009 - 0 comments - Front Page News

Sustainability leaders to present “Everything’s Cool”; 2009 Portland/Multnomah Climate Action Plan

The Sustainability Film Series returns with "Everything's Cool:"

Everything's Cool - Trailer - The best video clips are here

Get the screening details after the jump.

Read more and discuss: Sustainability leaders to present “Everything’s Cool”; 2009 Portland/Multnomah Climate Action Plan

» April 14, 2009 - 0 comments - Community Involvement, Front Page News, Karol's Blog, Sustainability

St. Johns Farmers Market - looking for a market manager

Yes, the St. Johns Farmers Market is going to happen...this summer! We are all very excited. Their next step? Hiring a market manager. Check out the listing:

The St. Johns Farmer’s Market (SJFM) is a non-profit organization
in its first year of business. Our mission is to support a local,
sustainable food supply while providing opportunity for emerging
farmers, contributing to the health of all local residents through
cross-cultural connections and dialogue, and enhancing the
community and business vitality of St. Johns. We are supported by
grants, business and individual sponsorships and revenues from booth rental and other
market business. Visit our website at www.sjfarmersmarket.com to find out more.

Read the rest of the description after the jump.

Read more and discuss: St. Johns Farmers Market - looking for a market manager

» April 7, 2009 - 0 comments - Front Page News

Jeff Cogen, en Español

Starting now, our Spanish speaking community members can access Jeff's bio, frequently asked questions and staff information on our website. Look up to your right and you'll see "En Español."

Tell your friends, or practice your own Spanish!

Discuss: Jeff Cogen, en Español

» April 6, 2009 - 0 comments - Front Page News

Jeff in the news - community gardens

From The Oregonian:

For 14 years, Sybil Kelley has looked at a vacant lot and seen what's not there: gardens and children learning to grow them.

Her vision for the King neighborhood lot at 822 N.E. Emerson St. will finally take shape as early as summer, but with an added dimension.

Read how Jeff helped Sybil over there.

Discuss: Jeff in the news - community gardens

» April 2, 2009 - 0 comments - Community Involvement, Front Page News, Karol's Blog, Sustainability

“Welcome to Medicare” class helps new enrollees

Multnomah County Aging Disability Services is collaborating with Mt. Hood Community College and the Multnomah County Library to present a free two-hour class for those new to Medicare. “Welcome to Medicare” is designed for people nearing age 65 or those who become eligible due to receiving Social Security Disability benefits. The course is taught by trained volunteers from Senior Health Insurance Benefits Assistance (SHIBA).

Read more and discuss: “Welcome to Medicare” class helps new enrollees

» April 1, 2009 - 0 comments - Front Page News, Human Services, Karol's Blog

Medicare Information service expands in North Portland

Starting this month, dedicated volunteers and community organizations will expand the SHIBA Program to better serve North Portland.

The Senior Health Insurance Benefits Assistance (SHIBA) Program is a network of local programs and volunteers who receive training to provide accurate, unbiased information and help to people with Medicare and their families.

“Medicare happens all year, not just in the fall when it’s time to choose a Part D plan,” explained Janet Bowman, Multnomah County’s SHIBA Coordinator. “Some people turn 65 and need information. Others have benefits denied and need an advocate. Things get tangled. SHIBA is here to help.”

Read more and discuss: Medicare Information service expands in North Portland

» April 1, 2009 - 0 comments - Front Page News, Human Services, Karol's Blog

Latino Summit to engage families in teen pregnancy prevention

From the Health Dept.:
Local public health officials are concerned and taking action to address a significant disparity in Latino teen birth rates. While both white non-Hispanics and Hispanic teen birth rates have declined in Multnomah County between 1991 and 2005, the rate of decline is greater for white non-Hispanic teens (down 66%) compared to Hispanic teens (down 29%). This disparity in declining Hispanic teen birth rates reflects national trends.

Read more and discuss: Latino Summit to engage families in teen pregnancy prevention

» March 30, 2009 - 0 comments - Children and Families, Community Involvement, Front Page News, Human Services, Karol's Blog

Environmental School in St. Johns? - Meeting April 1 - St. Johns Booksellers

From St. Johns community member, Katie Selby:
You are invited to participate in an information and planning meeting to discuss how we can improve our neighborhood schools. Several neighborhood parents have been advocating to the Portland Public School Board to address an unresolved resolution to open another environmental school in the district.

Read more and discuss: Environmental School in St. Johns? - Meeting April 1 - St. Johns Booksellers

» March 30, 2009 - 0 comments - Front Page News

Portland Opera To Go presents Cinderella

Portland Opera To Go, the touring arm of Portland Opera's education and outreach department, presents their 50-minute, English version of Cinderella in the Portland Opera Studio Theater, 211 SE Caruthers St. $5 for children under 12, $10 for adults, $20 per family of four. For tickets, please call 503-241-1802.

Thursday, March 26
Friday, March 27, 7pm
Saturday, March 28, 1pm and 4pm

www.portlandopera.org

Discuss: Portland Opera To Go presents Cinderella

» March 26, 2009 - 0 comments - Children and Families, Front Page News, Karol's Blog

Commissioner McKeel makes her recommendation for a library location

From the Library:
Multnomah County Commissioner Diane McKeel announced her recommendation to the Board of County Commissioners for the site of the new Troutdale Library: the Cherry Park Market site (242nd St. and S.W. Cherry Park Rd.). The siting decision will be made by the Board at the regular Board meeting on April 2.

The Cherry Park Market site is a 6,000 sq. ft. existing space in the southeast section of the shopping center adjacent to El Tapatio Restaurant. It is a well-known and popular shopping center, offering library users the opportunity to combine trips. It is professionally managed by Regency Centers.

Read more and discuss: Commissioner McKeel makes her recommendation for a library location

» March 25, 2009 - 0 comments - Front Page News, Karol's Blog, Libraries

Midland Library closed for carpet installation April 12-19

Midland Library will be closed from Sunday, April 12, through Sunday, April 19, for carpet installation. The Midland Library book drop will remain open during the closure. Materials may be returned in the book drop or at any other Multnomah County library. The eight days that the library is closed will not count toward the number of days materials will be held on the shelf for patron pickup. In addition, the days the library is closed will not count toward the checkout period for library materials; due dates will be extended accordingly.

The Multnomah County libraries nearest Midland Library are Rockwood Library (17917 S.E. Stark St.) and Holgate Library (7905 S.E. Holgate Blvd.).

Discuss: Midland Library closed for carpet installation April 12-19

» March 24, 2009 - 0 comments - Front Page News, Karol's Blog, Libraries, Outer NE

Joint Budget Update from the City of Portland and Multnomah County

The City of Portland and Multnomah County continue their outreach on the FY 2009-10 budget using new and collaborative methods of engagement. New this year is a joint City of Portland/Multnomah County scientific telephone and online survey process. These are accompanied by a community survey available to all and posted online on both the City and County web sites. The City-County partnership on surveys conducted by Davis, Hibbitts & Midghall will help both jurisdictions assess service priorities of the public. The City and County are sharing the costs, resulting in savings for both jurisdictions.

Read more and discuss: Joint Budget Update from the City of Portland and Multnomah County

» March 23, 2009 - 0 comments - Budget, Community Involvement, Front Page News, Karol's Blog

Trimet hearing on bus line closures: April 7

Many District 2 residents will be directly affected by the potential bus line closures; specifically the #33. Jeff wrote directly to Fred Hansen to ask him to reconsider keeping the #33 running.

Public hearings will be held at the Portland Building (1120 SW 5th) on April 7th from 4 to 7pm. Trimet will be listening to residents opinions on the bus closures, schedule and route changes. Trimet will also accept public comments through April 10th. Visit their website here.

Discuss: Trimet hearing on bus line closures: April 7

» March 23, 2009 - 2 comments - Community Involvement, Front Page News, Inner NE, Karol's Blog

Jeff in the news - Statewide menu labeling

From OPB:

Restaurant customers in Seattle and Portland are still getting used to the idea of seeing calorie information when they place an order. Menu labeling rules have taken effect in both King and Multnomah Counties recently.

Now, some Oregon lawmakers want to make it a statewide requirement. Salem correspondent Chris Lehman hit the streets to test the calorie competency of the lunch-time crowd.

Read the rest here.

Discuss: Jeff in the news - Statewide menu labeling

» March 19, 2009 - 0 comments - Front Page News, Karol's Blog, News

The Mercury talks County budget issues

Never has an interview made me want to buy a gun until I talked on Monday with county Department of Human Services spokesman Dave Austin about the incredibly dire budget cuts facing Portland.

And that's how the article starts in today's Mercury Blogtown post about the County's budget woes.

Jeff's quote:

"We like to think of ourselves as a progressive, caring people in Multnomah County. But during the good times, we cut the budget. During the bad times, we eviscerate it," says Cogen. "We need this money to save our community."

Read the rest here.

Discuss: The Mercury talks County budget issues

» March 18, 2009 - 0 comments - Budget, Front Page News, Karol's Blog, News

State panel will work with restaurants on calorie bill

From the Oregonian:
Bill Graves, The Oregonian
Friday March 13, 2009, 8:10 PM

SALEM -- Would you be more inclined to try the 80-calorie nonfat cappuccino if you knew your favorite white chocolate mocha came with 500 calories?

How about a 280-calorie low-carb burger if you knew that double cheeseburger packs 1,010 calories?

Health and nutrition advocates argued during a two-hour legislative public hearing Friday that at least some Oregonians would be slimmer if they were smarter about the calories in their food. But restaurant owners objected to the cost and effectiveness of putting calorie counts on menus.

Read more and discuss: State panel will work with restaurants on calorie bill

» March 17, 2009 - 0 comments - Front Page News, Karol's Blog, News

Video phone helps tuberculosis patients

Tuberculosis invokes images of turn-of-the-century facilities, where those with means retreated to resort-like sanitariums for what was then a largely untreatable disease called Consumption. Today, tuberculosis is readily treated, and is almost always curable. However, of most concern are the cases of multidrug-resistant strains of TB, more common in patients who do not take their medications as directed, or stop treatment before completing their full course of medication.

Tuberculosis is a bacterial infection that primarily affects the lungs. It can be spread when someone who is ill with untreated TB coughs or sneezes. People who breathe these germs into their lungs can become infected. However, being exposed to TB does not mean a person will become ill with TB.

Read more and discuss: Video phone helps tuberculosis patients

» March 17, 2009 - 0 comments - Front Page News, Karol's Blog

Diabetes-related deaths on the rise in Multnomah County

Diabetes-related deaths have steadily increased in Multnomah County, according to a new report issued by Multnomah County Health Department, Diabetes in Multnomah County. In Multnomah County, the diabetes-related mortality rate in 1993-1997 was 80 per 100,000 residents and in 2001-2005 was 92 per 100,000 residents, an increase of 15%. This increase in diabetes-related mortality correlates with increases in the prevalence of overweight and obesity in county residents.

Read more and discuss: Diabetes-related deaths on the rise in Multnomah County

» March 17, 2009 - 0 comments - Front Page News, Karol's Blog

IFCC events from March 26 to April 12th

Do North:
Dozens of artists fill the IFCC with their work - painting, sculpture, photography, poetry and more. Your vote helps decide one of three awards given along side two very special life time achievement awards: The Cornerstone Achievement and The Cultural Contribution Award.

March 26th 6-9pm: Last Thursday Opening Reception and public vote kickoff
www.ifccarts.org

Read more and discuss: IFCC events from March 26 to April 12th

» March 17, 2009 - 0 comments - Community Involvement, Front Page News, Karol's Blog, North Portland

Town hall with your representatives this weekend, March 14th

Representative Chip Shields, Representative Tina Kotek and Senator Carter will host a town hall meeting to discuss legislative issues with constituents this weekend.

The Oregon Legislature has been in session for 50 days. So far Legislators have managed to close the gap in the 2007-2009 budget and save school days and vital human services. The House of Representatives has also passed the first installment of our stimulus package to help jump start shovel-ready construction jobs and the Housing Opportunity Bill, which provides funds for more affordable housing.

Read more and discuss: Town hall with your representatives this weekend, March 14th

» March 13, 2009 - 0 comments - Budget, Community Involvement, Front Page News, Inner NE, Karol's Blog, North Portland

PPS Equity blog organizing for tomorrow's City hearing on MLS

From PPS Equity:

The Portland City Council votes tomorrow on a deal that would something like $89 million of public funds to build one stadium and renovate another for Merritt Paulson, the millionaire son of Bush Treasury Secretary Hank Paulson. The source of the funds would be Tax Increment Financing from a new urban renewal district.

Read the rest over there.

Discuss: PPS Equity blog organizing for tomorrow's City hearing on MLS

» March 10, 2009 - 2 comments - Front Page News

Unhappy in Portland?

Guest blog by Yahya Haqiqi, office intern.

Business Week recently named Portland the unhappiest city in America. Portland’s suicide rates have skyrocketed recently, the depression and divorce rates are above the roof and with 222 days of the year being cloudy, it seems like a pretty gloomy city. Leslie Storm (director of an Oregon Suicide Helpline) in an interview with the Oregonian said: “The Oregon suicide and drug and alcohol help lines received 71% more calls in January 2009 than it did the previous January…” The main cause of this stress of course, is the economic conditions we are facing. People are losing their jobs and don’t know what to do to take care of their financial needs.

Read more and discuss: Unhappy in Portland?

» March 9, 2009 - 0 comments - Front Page News, Human Services

Jeff in the news - MLS in PDX funding

Jeff is in The Mercury's Blogtown this morning with our former office mate, Rep. Nick Kahl, discussing the funding for soccer in Portland. Check it out.

Discuss: Jeff in the news - MLS in PDX funding

» March 9, 2009 - 1 comments - Budget, Front Page News, Karol's Blog

Steve March would like to be County Auditor

From the Willamette Week:

Former state Rep. Steve March today became the first candidate to file for the Multnomah County auditor's seat in the May 19 election.

March was a Democratic state rep from Northeast Portland when he ran unsuccessfully against Lavonne Griffin-Valade in 2006 for county auditor. He now works as a chief accounting and budgetary officer at Portland State University, according to his filing statement (PDF).

Read the rest over there.

Discuss: Steve March would like to be County Auditor

» March 5, 2009 - 2 comments - Front Page News, Karol's Blog

Banking crisis explained in 59 minutes

Is there anyone out there who not only understands the banking crisis but can explain it so a layman can get it? There are people and they did a little radio show about it. Last week on This American Life, the Planet Money team hosted a fantastic show that explained what is happening in this banking crisis, what could be done to solve it, and where and when it's happened before - here and around the globe.

It's worth a listen so you can be clear on what's happening. You can podcast it or just listen to it while you work. Check it out here.

Check out the mortgage crisis explained here.

Discuss: Banking crisis explained in 59 minutes

» March 5, 2009 - 0 comments - Budget, Front Page News, Karol's Blog

Another urban renewal area for a soccer stadium?

We know that when the City of Portland creates an urban renewal area, those property tax dollars no longer come in to Multnomah County for essential services, but to repay the initial debt created by the URA. A new soccer stadium would create another situation where the county will not receive it's tax money to fund our services for our vulnerable populations.

A Willamette Week article today explains the situation. Read it here.

Discuss: Another urban renewal area for a soccer stadium?

» March 4, 2009 - 1 comments - Budget, Front Page News, Karol's Blog

St. Johns Farmers Market meeting March 5th

If you have been following our blog, you know that the St. Johns neighborhood has been working for more than a year to bring a farmers market to the neighborhood. These folks have worked diligently and a market will open on the Plaza on July 11th. YAY!

Want to know more? Go to the market meeting on March 5th from 7 to 9pm at the St. Johns community center.

Discuss: St. Johns Farmers Market meeting March 5th

» March 4, 2009 - 0 comments - Community Involvement, Front Page News, Karol's Blog, North Portland

Sellwood Bridge funding on the horizon?

Is funding for the Sellwood Bridge on the horizon? Potentially, if things go Chair Wheeler's way with the City and the County's way with our congressional delegation. Here's a blurb from Willamette Week.

The text of the request from Chair Wheeler to the City is after the jump.

Read more and discuss: Sellwood Bridge funding on the horizon?

» March 3, 2009 - 0 comments - Budget, Front Page News, Karol's Blog

Closing the Achievement Gap

Yesterday in the Faubion K-8 School Library, 40 prominent community leaders gathered to hear about the Black Parent Initiative's newly released report on the Black/White Achievement Gap in Multnomah County Schools. Media stories are here and here, and the report itself is available here.

For me it was great to be part of this event happening in the very same school room where I volunteer with the Chess for Success program. The tables normally occupied by little kids playing chess were instead full of prominent education and community leaders contemplating a problem much more complex and meaningful than the hardest chess problem.

Read more and discuss: Closing the Achievement Gap

» February 26, 2009 - 0 comments - Children and Families, Community Involvement, Front Page News, Inner NE, Libraries, News, Warren's Blog

Jeff in the news - helping someone find a place to live

A while back, Jeff and Marissa helped find a man named David a place to live. David told Matt Davis and he wrote about it for The Mercury on their blog. Check it out!

Discuss: Jeff in the news - helping someone find a place to live

» February 25, 2009 - 0 comments - Front Page News

Multnomah County budget: What we are facing

In the coming weeks Multnomah County will start to finalize our budget for next year. It’s not clear yet how it will all wind up, but one thing is crystal clear: at the end of the day, a lot of people in this community will be suffering. This is the ninth straight year that the County has had to cut its budget. We are past the fat, past the flesh and deep into the bone. Simply put, our safety net is shredded; our public safety at risk.

We need to use this crisis to ask ourselves some important but uncomfortable questions. Are we really who we say we are? That is, do we really care about people in need? Do we really believe in giving young people the support they need to thrive? Do we really believe in preventing crime rather than just locking up criminals? Do we even really believe that crime should have consequences?

Read more and discuss: Multnomah County budget: What we are facing

» February 25, 2009 - 14 comments - Budget, Front Page News, Jeff's Blog

Multnomah Co has five star libraries

From the Library:
PORTLAND, OR — Recently, the national library publication Library Journal unveiled the results of a new assessment tool for public libraries – and Multnomah County Library was the only library in the Pacific Northwest (and one of only a handful of U.S. libraries of its size) to receive five stars—the highest ranking possible.

According to Director of Libraries Molly Raphael, “We know that in these tough economic times, people need libraries more than ever. While being recognized as one of “America’s star libraries” is wonderful, it’s really only a reflection of how frequently people in our community turn to their library for the information and resources they need."

The LJ Index of Public Library Services ranks libraries based on four per capita output measures: visits, circulation, program attendance and public Internet computer use. When compared with other large urban library systems in the U.S., Multnomah County Library was ranked #1 in circulation per capita, an honor the library consistently achieves year after year.

Discuss: Multnomah Co has five star libraries

» February 24, 2009 - 2 comments - Front Page News, Karol's Blog, Libraries

DCJ Juvenile and Adult Division Help Get Children Out of the Sex Trade

From Dept. of Community Justice:

Portland, Oregon –Multnomah County’s Department of Community Justice (DCJ) worked with the FBI, the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the Oregon Human Trafficking Task Force and a variety of local law enforcement and social service agencies to help get children out of the sex trade, and adult offenders involved in prostitution off the streets.

Read more and discuss: DCJ Juvenile and Adult Division Help Get Children Out of the Sex Trade

» February 24, 2009 - 0 comments - Front Page News, Karol's Blog, Public Safety

Chair Wheeler's budget memo to county employees

The weakening of the economy continues to bring disheartening news for Multnomah County. Today’s state revenue forecast predicts further erosion of the state economy which will result in a significant decline in state funding to Multnomah County. The state reports a $855.3 million budget shortfall for the current year and a $3 billion deficit for the 09-11 biennium. Multnomah County faces a $36.5 million General Fund shortfall in FY 2010, which grows to $45.9 million in FY 2011. These numbers are unprecedented, continue to change, and will result in deep reductions to county services.

Read more and discuss: Chair Wheeler's budget memo to county employees

» February 20, 2009 - 2 comments - Budget, Front Page News, Karol's Blog, News

Interstate Firehouse Cultural Center gallery show

Two exhibits will open February 26th at the IFCC gallery.

Taking the Long View: IFCC/Jefferson HS Mentor Artist Program
Five of IFCCs finest artists mentor ten Jefferson students in painting, photography, installation and encaustic arts. Exhibit includes new work from apprentices and their mentors and the compelling story of their arts journey.

Papers Uncut: Mentor program Graham Street Productions present powerful works of young Mexican Americans along with uncut previews of their upcoming film about coming of age without documentation.

For more great events at the IFCC, check out their website.

Discuss: Interstate Firehouse Cultural Center gallery show

» February 19, 2009 - 0 comments - Community Involvement, Front Page News, Karol's Blog, North Portland

SBA Offers Disaster Assistance to Oregon Small Businesses Economically Impacted by Severe Winter Storms

From the US Small Business Association:

Darryl Hairston, Acting Administrator of the U. S. Small Business Administration (SBA), today announced that the SBA is making low-interest Economic Injury Disaster Loans available to small businesses economically impacted by severe winter storms in Oregon that occurred from December 14, 2008 through January 4, 2009.

Read more and discuss: SBA Offers Disaster Assistance to Oregon Small Businesses Economically Impacted by Severe Winter Storms

» February 17, 2009 - 0 comments - Front Page News, Karol's Blog

St. Johns Farmers Market is looking for vendors

St. Johns, located in North Portland, is starting its first farmers market this summer on July 11th. The market will run twelve weeks on Saturday mornings, from 9 am until 1 pm. The St. Johns Farmers Market is currently accepting applications for the 2009 season. We are striving to assemble a dynamic mix of vendors that meet the unique need of the St. Johns Community. Please join us
and apply today!

For more information or to get a copy of our market application please contact:
Gentiana Loeffler, Vendor Recruiter
(971) 340-3816
gloeffler.stjohnsfarmersmarket@gmail.com

Discuss: St. Johns Farmers Market is looking for vendors

» February 12, 2009 - 0 comments - Community Involvement, Front Page News, Karol's Blog, North Portland

Caloric menu labeling in effect March 12th

At long last, menu labeling will go into effect in Multnomah County on March 12th. Today, the Board - acting as the Board of Health - approved the final rules that will guide the menu labeling into fruition. There is a nine month grace period for affected restaurants to comply. Want to know what it will look like? Visit a Noah's Bagels in Portland. They have already complied with the new policy. See the post below to check it out.

Discuss: Caloric menu labeling in effect March 12th

» February 12, 2009 - 0 comments - Front Page News

Jeff at Noah's Bagels showing off menu labeling

Discuss: Jeff at Noah's Bagels showing off menu labeling

» February 11, 2009 - 0 comments - Children and Families, Community Involvement, Front Page News, Karol's Blog, News

Policy leaders recommend Sellwood Bridge plan

After two and a half years of study, a committee of elected and agency leaders has recommended a locally preferred alternative for the Sellwood Bridge Project. The alternative, which was unanimously approved on February 6, includes these elements:

· A new bridge built on the existing alignment and widening to the south

· A grade-separated and signalized interchange at the intersection with Highway 43 on the west side

· A pedestrian activated signal at the intersection of SE Tacoma and SE 6th Ave. at the east end of the bridge

· A cross section of 64 feet or less at its narrowest point, with two traffic lanes, two bike lanes/shoulders, and two sidewalks

The Policy Advisory Group includes representatives of jurisdictions and agencies with an interest in the Sellwood Bridge. The group is chaired by Multnomah County Chair Ted Wheeler and includes Portland Mayor Sam Adams, Milwaukie City Councilor Greg Chaimov, Federal Highway Administration Manager Philip Ditzler, TriMet General Manager Fred Hansen, Multnomah County Commissioner Deborah Kafoury, Metro Councilor Robert Liberty, Clackamas County Chair Lynn Peterson, State Sen. Diane Rosenbaum, ODOT Region 1 Manager Jason Tell, and State Rep. Carolyn Tomei.

Read more and discuss: Policy leaders recommend Sellwood Bridge plan

» February 11, 2009 - 1 comments - Community Involvement, Front Page News, Karol's Blog

TravelPortland's model "tweet" for visitors

Nation’s First “Twisitor Center” Launches in Portland, Oregon

Portland, Ore., has become the first U.S. city to launch an official “Twisitor Center.” This cyber-style cousin to the more traditional walk-in visitor information center relies on Twitter technology to connect travelers with those who can answer their questions and help plan their trips. (Twitter is a free social-networking service that allows subscribers to send and receive short, real-time updates, messages and questions.)

Read more and discuss: TravelPortland's model "tweet" for visitors

» February 10, 2009 - 0 comments - Front Page News, Karol's Blog

St Johns neighborhood association meeting 2/9

St. Johns Neighborhood Association Meeting this Monday February 9, 7pm @ St. Johns Community Center.

Agenda:

Portland Police Bureau
Precinct Re-Alignment - Discuss

St. Louis/Fez Improvements
Metro Funding DENIED - Call to Action!!

St. Johns Business District
Oregon Main Street Program
St. Johns Bizarre 2009

Discuss: St Johns neighborhood association meeting 2/9

» February 9, 2009 - 0 comments - Community Involvement, Front Page News, Karol's Blog, North Portland

Jeff in the news - East County Justice Center, Domestic Violence One Stop

Jeff in The Oregonian, discussing the potential for an East County Justice Center.

Jeff in The Portland Tribune, discussing the upcoming Domestic Violence One Stop Center.

Discuss: Jeff in the news - East County Justice Center, Domestic Violence One Stop

» February 6, 2009 - 0 comments - Front Page News, Karol's Blog, News

Policy leaders to choose Sellwood Bridge plan

The Policy Advisory Group for the Sellwood Bridge Project will meet on Friday, February 6 at 3:00 pm in the boardroom of the Multnomah Building at 501 SE Hawthorne Blvd. to choose a locally preferred alternative. The decision is a major step in a planning project that began in 2006. The meeting is open to the public and will include time for public comment.

The Policy Advisory Group includes elected leaders from jurisdictions with an interest in the Sellwood Bridge as well as appointed leaders of transportation agencies involved in the project. Multnomah County Chair Ted Wheeler serves as chair of the Policy Group.

Read more and discuss: Policy leaders to choose Sellwood Bridge plan

» February 5, 2009 - 0 comments - Front Page News, Karol's Blog, Public Safety

Our library director is retiring

Team Cogen is a little sad to announce our library director is retiring. Molly Raphael has been instrumental in helping us accomplish siting of the new Kenton Library. Beyond that, she's done wonderful things for all of our branches and is a genuinely nice person. From Chair Wheeler:

I am writing to inform you that I have accepted the resignation of Molly Raphael, Director of Multnomah County Library. It is with regret that I make this announcement, and I am deeply indebted to Molly for her leadership of one of the premier library systems in the country. Her final day at the county will be May 1. Under Molly’s guidance, and with the unparalleled engagement of staff, community members and volunteers, her accomplishments include:

•Achieved ranking as highest circulating library in the country for 4 years (total circulation), higher than libraries serving communities with much greater populations (New York, Chicago, Los Angeles); current circulation is over 20 million
•Increased diversity in library employment, collections and programming to serve Multnomah County’s ethnic and cultural minorities more effectively
•Expanded literacy programs and services
•Planned for opening two new branch libraries, one in North Portland and one in Troutdale, with anticipated openings in late 2009 or 2010
•Opened all libraries 7 days a week (previously, only 5 of 17 were open all 7 days)
•Worked with the Library Foundation to bring millions of private dollars to Multnomah County Library to enhance programs and services

Discuss: Our library director is retiring

» February 5, 2009 - 2 comments - Front Page News, Karol's Blog, Libraries, North Portland

Multnomah County School Exclusion date for immunizations is February 18, 2009

This week, approximately 8,000 Multnomah County parents will receive letters stating that their children must be immunized or will not be admitted to school on the school exclusion date of February 18, 2009. The number of this year’s letters is nearly double the amount sent in 2008 due to the two new vaccines that became required to attend school this year. Previously, the number of exclusion orders issued was declining, from a high of 10,530 in 2004 to 4,280 in 2008, as children and students got caught up on the new vaccine requirements that were introduced in the year 2000.

This is the final notice informing parents of children in public schools, pre-schools, Head Start programs, private schools, and other children’s facilities. Approximately 111,000 children in Multnomah County must meet the school exclusion requirements each year and approximately 601 (less than 1%) were excluded from school last year until they received needed vaccines.

Read more and discuss: Multnomah County School Exclusion date for immunizations is February 18, 2009

» February 4, 2009 - 0 comments - Children and Families, Front Page News, Human Services, Karol's Blog

Conference will engage health professionals on environmental health threats

The first annual Northwest Environmental Health Conference will be held on February 6 and 7, 2009, at Oregon Health Sciences University (OHSU) to raise awareness among health professionals about emerging environmental health issues. Topics include climate change and chemicals with potential health impacts, such as flame retardants, and Bisphenol A and phthalates that are found in plastics.

The conference will bring together healthcare professionals such as physicians, nurses, naturopathic physicians and public health practitioners to deepen their collective understanding of environmental health. The conference will work to build knowledge of tools and resources and create a foundation for institutional and public policies that protect the health of Oregon’s patients, employees and community.

“For many years, Oregon has been a leader in protecting the environment. This conference is an important step in continuing that tradition, and focusing on the relationship between a healthy environment and healthy people,” said Gary Oxman, MD, Health Officer for Clackamas, Multnomah and Washington counties.

Read more and discuss: Conference will engage health professionals on environmental health threats

» February 2, 2009 - 1 comments - Front Page News, Human Services, Karol's Blog

St. Johns Market meeting February 5th

Please join us for the St. Johns Farmers Market Meeting!

Thursday Feb 5th 7:00 - 9:00pm at the St. Johns Community Center

Discuss: St. Johns Market meeting February 5th

» February 2, 2009 - 0 comments - Community Involvement, Front Page News, Karol's Blog, North Portland, Sustainability

Save money at home, come to the FREE Fix-It Fair at George Middle School

From the City of Portland's office of sustainable development:

22nd Annual Fix-It Fair Season
Fix-It Fair is a free event designed to save you money and connect you to resources. Join your neighbors and talk to experts about how to spend less and stay healthy.

February 7, George Middle School, 10000 N Burr Ave., Portland

Hours: 8:30 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Day long exhibits and hourly workshops provide information and resources for:

· water & energy savings,
· home & personal health,
· food & nutrition,
· community resources,
· recycling & yard care,
· lead testing & more!

Free lunch and childcare provided.

Organized by the City of Portland Bureau of Planning and Sustainability in partnership with other City bureaus,

Energy Trust of Oregon, Pacific Power, Portland General Electric and the Portland Development Commission.

Questions? (503) 823-4309 | fixitfair@ci.portland.or.us | www.portlandonline.com/osd/fif

Discuss: Save money at home, come to the FREE Fix-It Fair at George Middle School

» February 2, 2009 - 0 comments - Community Involvement, Front Page News, Karol's Blog, Sustainability

Town hall on economic crisis

There is a town hall on the economic crisis tomorrow, January 31st at 1:00pm until 5:00pm. ti will be at the First Unitarian Church located at 1011 SW 12th ave in Portland. There will workshops on: Housing, the labor movement, alternative economics, trade and immigration, green economy, democracy, the peace economy and rebuilding the safety net.

There are a great list of sponsors; check them out at www.jwjpdx.org.

Discuss: Town hall on economic crisis

» January 30, 2009 - 1 comments - Community Involvement, Front Page News, Human Services, Karol's Blog

Earned Income Tax Credit Awareness Day

Federal tax credits are potent anti-poverty tools, but many fail to take advantage

On Thursday, January 29, the Multnomah County Board of County Commissioners will consider a proclamation, co-sponsored by Commissioners Jeff Cogen and Deborah Kafoury, aimed at increasing local awareness of the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC).

Last year in Multnomah County, 46,673 individuals and families received over $77.5 million dollars in EITC, but many people eligible for these federal tax credits failed to apply and the money they were due reverted to the federal treasury.

Multnomah County’s Family Economic Security Program, which is run through the county’s Commission on Children, Families and Community (CCFC), helps families and employers learn about ways to increase take home pay and make other smart financial choices.

Read more and discuss: Earned Income Tax Credit Awareness Day

» January 28, 2009 - 0 comments - Children and Families, Events, Front Page News, Human Services, Warren's Blog

Lack of dental care during pregnancy can affect baby’s health

From the Public Affairs Office:

Pregnancy is a critical time for a woman to receive oral health care, according to public health officials. More than half of pregnant women experience gingivitis during their pregnancies and untreated gingivitis can lead to periodontal disease and more serious problems with newborns.

According to the American Academy of Periodontology, pregnant women with periodontal disease are up to seven times more likely to deliver a pre-term or low birth weight baby. Chronic inflammation from the disease process may increase prostaglandin and increase the likelihood of inducing labor.

Multnomah County Commissioner Diane McKeel, a dental hygienist in her early career, states, “Many people don’t realize that preventive dental care and regular cleanings during pregnancy can significantly improve the health of newborns. And, there is a well-established link between periodontal disease and heart disease. It is critical that pregnant women and people with chronic diseases receive dental care.”

Read more and discuss: Lack of dental care during pregnancy can affect baby’s health

» January 27, 2009 - 0 comments - Children and Families, Front Page News, Human Services

Alternative Fuel Vehicles

I've seen a lot more Zap Car electric vehicles on the roads of Portland lately. I've also noticed more BioDiesel stickers on diesel cars and delivery trucks. And it turns out that two biodiesel and ethanol filling stations are within blocks of the Multnomah Building (Jays Garage and Mr. Carwash).

Do you use BIODIESEL or drive a plug-in ELECTRIC car? How is it working? Do you have ideas for how we can improve our infrastructure for alternative fuel vehicles--things like quick-charge stations, purchase incentives, or road user rules? If you do, please reach out for us. Commissioner Cogen has been appointed by Governor Kulongoski to Chair the Alternative Fuel Vehicle Infrastructure Working Group. In this exciting role Jeff will have a chance to bring forward our community's priorities in this area, so please share your opinions.

Discuss: Alternative Fuel Vehicles

» January 26, 2009 - 0 comments - Community Involvement, Front Page News, Sustainability, Warren's Blog

Oregon Jobless Rate Hits 9%

A new day, a new president, a new jobless rate.

From the AP:

"Oregon's seasonally adjusted unemployment rate hit a 23-year high of 9 percent in December, up from 8.0 percent in November.

December's rate is the highest since April of 1985 when it reached 9.1 percent.

In December, Oregon's seasonally adjusted nonfarm payroll employment declined by 9,700 jobs, following a drop of 8,400 in November. It was the fifth consecutive monthly loss of more than 4,000 jobs. "

Are you one of the 1 in 10 people in Oregon who are unemployed? Tell us your stories and what you think local government should/can do to help.

Discuss: Oregon Jobless Rate Hits 9%

» January 20, 2009 - 3 comments - Front Page News, Marissa's Blog

Video: Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday

Discuss: Video: Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday

» January 19, 2009 - 0 comments - Front Page News, Karol's Blog

Journey the Cat: Don't Stop Believin'

Journey the cat needs a new home and would love it if you came out to Animal Services for a visit! Check him out here.

Discuss: Journey the Cat: Don't Stop Believin'

» January 12, 2009 - 1 comments - Front Page News

Library receives Ready to Read grant

From the library:
Multnomah County Library has received a $114,356 Ready to Read Grant to enrich outreach services to local children. Funds from this state grant support the library’s early literacy programs for children from birth to kindergarten, as well as summer reading programs for babies, children and teens.

The Ready to Read Grant was established by the 1993 Oregon Legislature and is administered by the Oregon State Library.
“The most important mission of our public libraries,” said State Librarian Jim Scheppke, “is to help every Oregon child grow up to be a proficient reader.”

Read more and discuss: Library receives Ready to Read grant

» January 9, 2009 - 0 comments - Front Page News, Karol's Blog, Libraries

AFSCME Local 88 hosting budget town hall

From Multnomah County's Local 88:

Our Town Hall Meeting to discuss current budget crisis is scheduled for Monday, January 12, 2009 from 6:00pm to 8:00pm in the Multnomah Building Board Room on the 1st floor.

In addition, bring your canned food donations for the Oregon Food Bank Drive, or your blankets & back- packs from our cancelled Holiday Party. The blankets and/or back-packs are for the homeless clients served by our Local 88 brothers and sisters from Transition Projects, Inc. More information is available on our web site www.local88.ws
*Delicious snacks will be available.

Discuss: AFSCME Local 88 hosting budget town hall

» January 8, 2009 - 0 comments - Front Page News

Sharing Jeff with your friends

If you look down to your left, you'll see that CommissionerCogen.com has added share links. If you click below, you see that you can share what you see on this site by email, to Facebook, StumbleUpon, or any number of great share sites. We encourage you to share Jeff with your friends if something strikes your fancy. Enjoy!

Discuss: Sharing Jeff with your friends

» January 6, 2009 - 0 comments - Front Page News, Karol's Blog

Oregon goes smoke free in three days!

Oregon is finally going smoke free in bars and restaurants. I personally can't wait to go home with clothes that don't smell like smoke and hair that smells like shampoo. The other piece of good news is that workplaces will also be smoke free. Here is the message from our Health Department director, Lillian Shirley:

What are the changes to the law? Smoking will not be allowed in any place that is open to the public or has one or more employees. This means that the following worksites not currently covered by the law will now be required to be smoke-free:

· All bars, taverns, and bar areas of restaurants
· Bowling centers
· Bingo halls
· All employee break rooms
· At least 75% of hotel/motel sleeping rooms
· Work vehicles that are not operated exclusively by one

Smoking will not be allowed outdoors within 10 feet of any entrance, exit, window, air intake vent or accessibility ramp.

Read more and discuss: Oregon goes smoke free in three days!

» December 29, 2008 - 5 comments - Front Page News, Human Services, Karol's Blog, Public Safety

Library update: your books, your holds from Arctic Blast!

This is the latest from the good people who work at our libraries:

Library customers are encouraged to renew books online at http://www.multcolib.org/catalog/card/renew.html Late fines will not be charged for the days the libraries has been closed due to bad weather.

Once libraries reopen, staff will try to retain holds on the shelves for the first day or two past their expiration so that they can be picked up. However, space is limited; if customers miss any holds, library staff can assist in replacing them.

Discuss: Library update: your books, your holds from Arctic Blast!

» December 26, 2008 - 0 comments - Front Page News

What to do about those library books?

If you are like me, you have library books to return and holds to pick up. I'm worried about my three books that I've WAITING patiently for and I returned a book (returned in the snow) but still have a fine.

I don't have an answer yet, but I'm asking all the right people and will post an update as soon as I know what's what.

Discuss: What to do about those library books?

» December 23, 2008 - 0 comments - Front Page News

Happy Holidays from Jeff!

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Discuss: Happy Holidays from Jeff!

» December 18, 2008 - 0 comments - Front Page News

Introducing Our District 2 Intern: Yahya Haqiqi

Hey All blog readers!!

I am the new intern at Commissioner Jeff Cogen’s office. A little about me:

My name is Yahya Haqiqi, I am from Afghanistan. I am currently a student at Portland State University and am studying Computer Engineering and plan on getting a Masters in Business. I am interested in wide array of subjects, from politics to poetry to philosophy to science and mathematics. I am always looking forward to learning something new and love challenges.

This is my fifth week interning for Commissioner Jeff Cogen’s office. It’s been a really fun experience. Everybody is really nice, and are always laughing and smiling. So far I have been reading about many different cases that the commissioner has to deal with and I am amazed at the variety of it. Soon, I will be getting a special project to work on. I am looking forward to the project and what I will learn from it. That’s all for now.

Until next time,

Yahya

Discuss: Introducing Our District 2 Intern: Yahya Haqiqi

» December 16, 2008 - 0 comments - Front Page News, Guest blogs

Cell phone recycling in The Oregonian

This holiday season as you tear the wrapping from the hottest new cell phones and MP3 players, don't just toss the played-out gadgets in the junk drawer.

Multnomah County has an option that can help keep the electronics' toxic elements out of the landfill, clear some clutter from your home and earn the cash-strapped county a little change.

You can dump your old cell phones, PDAs, MP3 players, chargers and Bluetooth headsets into one of the free recycling bins at 11 locations across the county. Drop boxes are at libraries and other county buildings.

Commissioner Jeff Cogen launched the program in October, but is pushing hard to get the word out to county residents as the gift-giving season approaches.

Read the rest here.

Discuss: Cell phone recycling in The Oregonian

» December 11, 2008 - 2 comments - Community Involvement, Front Page News, Karol's Blog, Sustainability

Updated: Human Solutions warming center for the homeless

Homeless Families Warming Center
Open Dec. 8th 2008 through Apr. 2009
7pm-7am every night

The Homeless Families Warming Center is a program of Human Solutions and Multnomah County, and offers homeless families a warm place to stay from 7pm to 7am every night – so families and their children don’t have to sleep out in the cold. Families can arrive at the Warming Center at 7pm, and stay until 7am the next morning.

Where is the Homeless Families Warming Center?

1435 NE 81st – very close to the 82nd Avenue MAX stop, white one story building at NE 81st and Halsey

Read more and discuss: Updated: Human Solutions warming center for the homeless

» December 10, 2008 - 0 comments - Front Page News

Latino Summit to engage families in teen pregnancy prevention

Local public health officials are concerned and taking action to address a significant disparity in Latino teen birth rates. While both white non-Hispanics and Hispanic teen birth rates have declined in Multnomah County between 1991 and 2005, the rate of decline is greater for white non-Hispanic teens (down 66%) compared to Hispanic teens (down 29%). This disparity in declining Hispanic teen birth rates reflects national trends.

Read more and discuss: Latino Summit to engage families in teen pregnancy prevention

» December 9, 2008 - 2 comments - Community Involvement, Events, Front Page News, Human Services, Karol's Blog

St Johns Market gets a grant!

The new St. Johns Farmer's Market was awarded full funding for our request of the North Portland Neighborhood Services Small Grant, in the amount of $2500. This was announced at a celebration potluck on December 1 at the North Portland Neighborhood Services offices in the Kenton Firehouse. In attendance were Commissioner-elect Amanda Fritz and Metro Councilor Rex Burkholder. Go North Portland!

Thanks to the hardworking volunteers of the St. Johns Farmer's Market!

Visit St. Johns Farmers Market at: http://stjohnsfarmersmarket.ning.com

***Tonight, December 8th, join the regular St Johns neighborhood meeting at 7pm at the Community Center. 8427 N. Central Street.

Discuss: St Johns Market gets a grant!

» December 8, 2008 - 0 comments - Front Page News

How will new team steer the county?

From The Oregonian:

A new majority will take seats on the Multnomah County Board of Commissioners in January. Three new commissioners — Deborah Kafoury, Judy Shiprack and Diane McKeel — will join the board's "veterans": Jeff Cogen and Ted Wheeler, relative newcomers themselves with two years of service apiece.

Read the rest here and come back to let us know what you think.

Discuss: How will new team steer the county?

» December 8, 2008 - 0 comments - Front Page News, Karol's Blog, News

Members sought for county bicycle and pedestrian committee

Multnomah County is seeking members to serve on its Bicycle and Pedestrian Citizen Advisory Committee who live or work in East Multnomah County. The committee advises the county on bicycle and pedestrian issues related to the county’s road system, which includes:
· Major collector and arterial roads in the cities of Fairview, Gresham, Troutdale, and Wood Village

· Roads in unincorporated areas of Multnomah County including the west hills, Sauvie Island, and areas east and west of the Sandy River

· Five Willamette River bridges in the City of Portland (Broadway, Burnside, Hawthorne, Morrison, and Sellwood)

Read more and discuss: Members sought for county bicycle and pedestrian committee

» December 8, 2008 - 0 comments - Front Page News

Lillian Shirley honored as Public Health Hero by Research!America

Lillian M. Shirley, director of Multnomah County Health Department, was named a Public Health Hero by Research!America, a national health education and advocacy alliance. She was one of eleven public health professionals honored and profiled by the organization.

Read more and discuss: Lillian Shirley honored as Public Health Hero by Research!America

» December 1, 2008 - 2 comments - Front Page News, Human Services, Karol's Blog

Solar Power Progress!

Last week Commissioner Cogen toured the County's John B. Yeon Building in Gresham to view the solar installation there. It's a huge array of roof-mounted solar panels (the above photo doesn't do the scale of this project justice! pictured are Commissioner Cogen and Jeremy Barnett, SunEdison Program Manager). The Yeon building project should be completely operational by the end of next week. Kudos to all County staff people involved in the project, and to SunEdison's outstanding team.

Discuss: Solar Power Progress!

» November 29, 2008 - 0 comments - Front Page News, News, Sustainability, Warren's Blog

Get 55 percent off used books, CDs, DVDs at Nov. 28 library sale

Find huge bargains and hidden treasures at the library’s used bookstore!

Come into The Title Wave Used Bookstore during its annual Customer Appreciation Sale and save 55 percent on all used items — books, audiobooks, CDs, DVDs and more. The sale happens on Friday, Nov. 28 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Read more and discuss: Get 55 percent off used books, CDs, DVDs at Nov. 28 library sale

» November 25, 2008 - 1 comments - Front Page News, Karol's Blog, Libraries

Electric Fleets Heading to Oregon

At the same time the US Congress considers giving the big three automakers an SUV hangover cure, Nissan has chosen Oregon as one of a handful of sites to roll-out and mass-market zero-emission electric vehicles. From the Oregonian:

"Details -- such as numbers of cars and their costs -- were still being negotiated even as Kulongoski drove a prototype Nissan electric vehicle in Japan this week. The program is another green feather in the governor's cap as he prepares to visit a company Friday developing electric cars in China.

'Our goal is mass-marketing vehicles across the U.S. and globally' in 2012, said Nissan's Perry. 'We all believe that we'll be mass-marketing in Oregon much faster than that.' "

The roll-out is expected to begin with government and commercial fleets. What do you think Multnomah County, are you ready to go electric?

Update: Here's a little inspiration to get you jazzed about Electric.

Discuss: Electric Fleets Heading to Oregon

» November 20, 2008 - 2 comments - Front Page News, Marissa's Blog, Sustainability

State Budget Forecast: Revenue Down Almost 1 Billion

Oregon State lawmakers have just learned that they will have almost 1 billion fewer dollars to spend on schools, human services and public safety. From the Oregonian:

"State economists reported that revenue for the current two-year budget is down by $140 million, prompting Gov. Ted Kulongoski to order state agency heads immediately to slash the remainder of their budgets across the board by 5 percent.

The news for the upcoming two years is much worse. Revenues are projected to be down by $718 million, compared with the forecast from three months ago. "

Multnomah County's budget analysts are already hard at work determining how this state revenue shortfall will impact the County. To give you some perspective, about 75% of the County's Department of Human Services Budget (Mental Health Services, Aging and Disability Services to name a few) comes from state and federal resources. State funds also flow to our jails and parole and probation services.

As always, we'll keep you up-to-date as information develops. The next big news is expected in December when Governor Kulongoski releases his 2009-2011 budget.

Drop us a line with your ideas for increasing revenue or cutting services.

Discuss: State Budget Forecast: Revenue Down Almost 1 Billion

» November 19, 2008 - 0 comments - Budget, Children and Families, Front Page News, Human Services, Libraries, Marissa's Blog, Public Safety

County residents are getting heavier

There is bad news and good news on the obesity front for Multnomah County, according to the fall 2008 Community Health Assessment Quarterly report (report available at http://www.mchealth.org/hra/haq/fall_2008_obesity.pdf). The bad news is that since 1993, there has been a rise in the total proportion of obese and overweight adults in Multnomah County. In 2006, 53% of residents over the age of 18 were either overweight or obese, up from 45% in 1993. Adult males are outweighing females, 61% to 44%.

Read more and discuss: County residents are getting heavier

» November 18, 2008 - 0 comments - Children and Families, Front Page News, Karol's Blog

Solar Energy -- Green Bag Lunch

Tuesday, Multnomah County's Green Bag Lunch Series featured Mark Waller of Bridgeworks Capital. He gave a vibrant and informative presentation on the latest devlopments in solar energy. 20 county employees heard about solar technologies like thin film, concentrated solar, energy storage technology, and photovoltaics, and how those technologies will help bring about the clean energy future we need.

Read more and discuss: Solar Energy -- Green Bag Lunch

» November 18, 2008 - 0 comments - Events, Front Page News, Sustainability, Warren's Blog

Video: Jeff paints at Jason Lee School in Northeast

See the pictures at Jeff's Flickr page or at Jeff's Facebook page.

Discuss: Video: Jeff paints at Jason Lee School in Northeast

» November 18, 2008 - 0 comments - Children and Families, Community Involvement, Front Page News, Karol's Blog, Outer NE

Weekend volunteering at Jason Lee Elementary

Jeff spend his Saturday painting Jason Lee Elementary with 40 other volunteers from Hands on Greater Portland. In three short hours, all these folks got two hallways and an office painted. It was a wonderful team effort that included City Commissioner Nick Fish and his staff, the Lincoln HS Service Team, and the volunteer group from PERS. It was a great time had by all and we can't wait until the next project. Check out the pictures on Flickr and Facebook.

Discuss: Weekend volunteering at Jason Lee Elementary

» November 17, 2008 - 2 comments - Community Involvement, Front Page News, Karol's Blog, Outer NE

Kenton Thanksgiving fun!

Proper's Annual Thanksgiving Feast

Place: Po'Shine's Cafe: 8139 N Denver at Kilpatrick Street

Time: Noon - 4PM Dinner is served

8:30 AM - Annual Turkey Bowl football at Kenton Park

PROPER's 8th Annual Thanksgiving Feast, always vegetarian-option and family friendly. Featuring national storyteller/performing artists Anne-Louise Sterry, and more.
For more information, click here: properusa.org

Discuss: Kenton Thanksgiving fun!

» November 14, 2008 - 0 comments - Community Involvement, Front Page News, Karol's Blog, North Portland

Temporary restaurant licenses required for holiday events

Churches and organizations sponsoring holiday events that serve food to the public must obtain a “benevolent” temporary restaurant license from Multnomah County Health Department. Each year, county health inspectors advise and consult with hundreds of churches, schools, and other nonprofit organizations, known as benevolent organizations. Oregon state law requires temporary restaurant licenses for holiday events which help to ensure safe food practices and reduce the likelihood of food-borne illness.

To obtain a “Benevolent Temporary License” an application must be completed and submitted to Multnomah County Health Department 15 days prior to the event. Application questions include:

· what foods are to be served

· what type of kitchen equipment will be used

· date and location of the event.

· contact information for operator.

Read more and discuss: Temporary restaurant licenses required for holiday events

» November 12, 2008 - 0 comments - Community Involvement, Front Page News, Karol's Blog

Jeff in the news - urban agriculture

Jeff's County Digs program is still going strong in East Portland. Check out this story in the Portland Tribune.

Discuss: Jeff in the news - urban agriculture

» November 10, 2008 - 0 comments - Front Page News, Karol's Blog, News, Sustainability

Comment period begins for Sellwood Bridge study

Multnomah County is accepting public comments on a study of five build alternatives and a no build option for the Sellwood Bridge. The Draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) compares impacts of the alternatives in areas such as cost, residential and business relocations, bridge closure periods, traffic flow, and flexibility for future travel needs. The public can comment on the study and share their preferred alternative via an online survey from November 7 through December 22. Public input will factor into the selection of a locally preferred alternative in early 2009. Citizens have a number of ways to learn about and comment on the alternatives study:

· Where to find the Draft EIS: The 450-page document and a 38-page executive summary are available: Online at www.sellwoodbridge.org

o At Multnomah County and Clackamas County branch libraries (reference desk)

· How to provide comments: Comments received during the official comment period (November 7 to December 22) will be responded to in the Final EIS.

o Online: At www.sellwoodbridge.org

o In Writing: Written comments should be mailed to Sellwood Bridge Project, 2020 SE 4th Ave., Portland, OR 97201. Comment forms are also available at community briefings and the public hearing (described below).

o Open house/public hearing: An open house will be held on Wednesday, December 10 from 6 pm to 8:30 pm at OMSI, 1945 SE Water Ave., with a formal public hearing from 7 pm to 8:30 pm. Written and oral comments will be taken at the open house and hearing.

· Take the online survey: An online survey is available at www.sellwoodbridge.org through December 22. The short survey is an informal poll to gauge community preferences on the alternatives. Survey comments are not included in the Final EIS.

· Attend a community briefing: Four identical one-hour briefings will share highlights of the draft EIS findings. If you cannot attend a briefing, watch a video of the presentation at www.sellwoodbridge.org.

Briefings are:

o November 10 at 6 pm and 7:15 pm at the Multnomah Building Boardroom, 501 SE Hawthorne Blvd.

o November 13 at 6 pm and 7:15 pm at Oaks Park Dance Pavilion, 7100 SE Oaks Park Way

The purpose of the current project is to identify a long-term solution to repair or replace the 82-year-old Sellwood Bridge.

Discuss: Comment period begins for Sellwood Bridge study

» November 7, 2008 - 0 comments - Community Involvement, Front Page News, Karol's Blog

St Johns Farmers Market meeting Nov. 6th

The St. Johns Farmers Market Committee would like to invite the community to our next meeting on Nov. 6, where we will hold a visioning session to determine our mission, goals and strategies for bringing a farmers market to St. Johns in 2009. We welcome anyone who is interested and look forward to hearing diverse perspectives so we can ensure this market serves the entire St. Johns community, as well as North Portland and beyond.

Our meeting will be held Thursday, November 6th, from 7 pm-8:30 pm at the St. Johns Community Center, Room 4. Light beverages and snacks will be served.

To receive updates, notifications and general information on our efforts, please email stjohnsfarmersmarket@gmail.com.

Hope to see you there!

Discuss: St Johns Farmers Market meeting Nov. 6th

» November 3, 2008 - 0 comments - Community Involvement, Front Page News, Karol's Blog

Josiah Hill Clinic Receives EPA Care Grant

A Multnomah County partner, the Josiah Hill III Clinic, is the recipient of a $210,950 Environmental Protection Agency CARE grant. Jeff was at the celebration in Peninsula Park last Friday to congratulate the Josiah Hill team.

From the announcment:

The primary purpose of the grant is to reduce health risks due to exposure to environmental pollutants, specifically chemicals found in and around homes, by utilizing a community-based collaborative approach. The projects Josiah Hill Clinic will conduct include:

- Community organizing and training along with healthy environment check-ups in partnership with Multnomah County Environment Health;

- Developing a local benefit analysis of green housing/maintenance and working with property owners and managers of multi-family housing to encourage the use of green, or less toxic products in partnership with Enterprise Community Partner; and

- Developing a local business inventory to identify access sources for green products and services that residents and property owners may utilize as they take actions to reduce chemicals and toxins.

Josiah Hill III Clinic’s project partners and supporters include: Enterprise Community Partners, Multnomah County Environmental Health, Portland State University, North/Northeast Business Association, Metro, and North/Northeast Portland neighborhood residents.

Congrats to the Josiah Hill team!

Read more about it in the Skanner.

Discuss: Josiah Hill Clinic Receives EPA Care Grant

» October 31, 2008 - 0 comments - Children and Families, Front Page News, Human Services, Inner NE, Sustainability

County seeks comment on menu labeling rules

Multnomah County Health Department is coordinating a rule-making process on the implementation and enforcement of the Chain Restaurant Nutrition Labeling Policy Order, passed in July 2008. The policy requires chain restaurants located in Multnomah County with at least 15 outlets nationwide to post nutrition information for customers.

According to health officials, approximately 500 restaurants in Multnomah County will be affected by the rule, and initial estimates indicate that there are less than a dozen chains in the county not already impacted by menu labeling requirements adopted in other jurisdictions. Technical assistance is available from the health department to help restaurants comply with the nutrition labeling requirements.

The county is seeking comment on draft rules to determine how the menu labeling policy will be executed and enforced. The draft rules are available on the Health Department website at www.mchealth.org or by calling 503-988-3674, ext. 26401.

Read more and discuss: County seeks comment on menu labeling rules

» October 28, 2008 - 2 comments - Community Involvement, Front Page News, Karol's Blog

Calling local North Portland vendors

St. Johns Booksellers is organizing a little mini-mall activity in the bookstore for Saturday, 15 November, 1-5pm. They are inviting a few local, online or home-based retailers to set up tables and offer their wares during that time. There will also have a local cookbook author doing a short recipe demo during that time. Would you like to have a table?

Read more and discuss: Calling local North Portland vendors

» October 27, 2008 - 0 comments - Front Page News

Multnomah County Elections offers voters assistance

Multnomah County Elections today reminded registered voters to who have not yet received their ballots to contact elections officials before the November 4 General Election. Voters who have other questions can also seek assistance by calling or visiting the Elections office.

Multnomah County voters who are currently registered should have received their ballot. Voters who have not received their ballot should call Multnomah County Elections at 503-988-3720. Voters registered in other Oregon counties should call their county elections office.

The Multnomah County Elections Office will be open to the public and available to answer calls with extended election hours:

· Monday to Friday, October 27 to 31, 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

· Saturday, November 1, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

· Monday, November 3, 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

· Election Day, November 4, 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

The Multnomah County Elections office is located at 1040 SE Morrison Street, Portland. The phone number is 503-988-3720.

Voted ballots must be received at any Elections Office in the state of Oregon or Official Drop Site location by 8:00 p.m., November 4. Ballot drop boxes are located outside the Multnomah County Elections Office on SE 11th Ave. southbound and SE Belmont St. eastbound. Additional ballot drop sites are located at any Multnomah County Library and other locations throughout the area. A complete list is located http://www.mcelections.org/.

Discuss: Multnomah County Elections offers voters assistance

» October 23, 2008 - 0 comments - Community Involvement, Front Page News, Karol's Blog

Oct. 29 open house for Bonny Slope West plan

An open house has been scheduled for a project that will develop a land use plan for how an unincorporated area of Multnomah County that is within the region’s Urban Growth Boundary (UGB) will develop in the future. The area, known as Bonny Slope West, includes roughly 160 acres and is less than a mile west of the City of Portland boundary. The area is currently semi-rural and is between NW Thompson and NW Laidlaw Roads adjacent to the Multnomah/ Washington county boundary.

The open house will be on Wednesday, October 29 at Terra Nova High School at 10351 NW Thompson Road. The drop-in event will run from 6:30 pm to 8 pm, with a presentation at 7 pm.

Read more and discuss: Oct. 29 open house for Bonny Slope West plan

» October 22, 2008 - 0 comments - Community Involvement, Front Page News, Karol's Blog

Active Culture

Two months after the low-car diet ended, I can honestly say it rocked my world. Sure, I'm driving my car now and again for long trips. But mostly, I walk. I meander, discovering new shops, restaurants and neighborhoods I didn't know existed when I was worrying about racing through a yellow stoplight and changing my radio station at the same time.

So this afternoon - this amazingly beautiful fall afternoon - I used my break to walk down to a place I'd discovered on a previous walk, Active Culture. It's a locally-owned frozen yogurt place in the Grand Central Bowling Building on 8th between SE Belmont and Morrison. AND, let me tell you that this yogurt isn't the tasteless, bland, wanna-be ice cream you remember from that brief fro-yo bubble in the 80's.

This is frozen yogurt that is unafraid to be yogurt. It's tart. It's sweet. It's non-fat and swimming with active probiotic cultures. It has to be tried to be believed. The only thing wrong with the place is that it's not in Jeff's District! This time, I got the plain tart/black cherry swirl with gummi bears (Yeah, gummi bears!). I also tried their seasonal Pumpkin Spice and WOW, it was a wee bit o' heaven.

That's all for today's District 2 local business report. If you know of another great local business someone in our office should walk to, send an email to marissa.d.madrigal @ co.multnomah.or.us

Go outside!

Discuss: Active Culture

» October 22, 2008 - 0 comments - Front Page News, Marissa's Blog

Pizzicato gets kudos for kicking off menu labeling

Pizzicato made The Oregonian's blog editorial page yesterday for kicking off menu labeling for Multnomah County:

In a gutsy move, Pizzicato has volunteered to be the test case in Multnomah County's new experiment in placing calories on menus. We supported this move enthusiastically, by the way. And although it is courageous, Pizzicato's decision is also shrewd for three reasons:

1. It's always better to be first, and get credit for jumping in, rather than being dragged in. No guts, no glory.

2. By going first, Pizzicato will help to shape the county's way of enforcing its new nutrition requirements. That's sort of like being in on the ordering of the pizza, rather than waiting to be presented with a pie accompli.

3. And Pizzicato will position itself as a hip, nutritious and, well, transparent. choice. All right, that's not the best word to describe pizza. But by embracing the requirements, Pizzicato sends the message: Hey, we've got nothing to hide. The average slice of an 18-inch cheeze pizza, by the way, has from 230 to 250 calories in it, according to Pizzicato's owner and founder, Marc Frankel.

Read the rest over there.

Discuss: Pizzicato gets kudos for kicking off menu labeling

» October 21, 2008 - 0 comments - Front Page News, Karol's Blog

PDC Seeking Projects in Convention Center URA

The Portland Development Commission is seeking new projects in the Oregon Convention Center Urban Renewal Area. They are holding an informational session next Wednesday, October 29th, 4:30 to 5:30pm.
details are here
From the Daily Journal of Commerce:
"The PDC is currently deciding how to distribute funding within its commercial redevelopment program, which provides financial aid for property development and rehabilitation that supports the goals of urban renewal. If a project receives funding, the money typically goes toward acquisition, pre-development, construction and financing costs. Projects eligible for funding include the redevelopment of vacant buildings, preservation of historic buildings and transit-oriented development. The Convention Center urban renewal area encompasses 593 acres in Northeast Portland and is set to expire in 2013."

Read more and discuss: PDC Seeking Projects in Convention Center URA

» October 20, 2008 - 0 comments - Front Page News, Inner NE, Neighborhoods, News, Warren's Blog

LGBT History of the week

What's With All Those Symbols?
Although LGBT people have existed in every culture, much of written history omits their existence and contributions. LGBT people have often been forced to hide their behavior and identity in order to avoid ridicule, imprisonment, or even death. Until the late 20th century, it was widely believed in the Western world that non-mainstream forms of sexuality and gender identity were mental illnesses.

Read more and discuss: LGBT History of the week

» October 17, 2008 - 0 comments - Front Page News, Karol's Blog

Commissioners Award Grant to Hacienda's Micro Mercante Program

Today the Board of Commissioners unanimously awarded Hacienda CDC a one-time grant to expand their successful Micro Mercantes micro-enterprise project. Jeff and Maria Rojo de Steffey proposed this $36,000 grant that will leverage private donations to pay for a commercial upgrade of an existing kitchen at NE Portland's Ortiz Center.

The new commercial kitchen will provide a permanent home for the program and allow Hacienda to expand participation to new individuals. A permanent kitchen also means that fans of Micro Mercantes' fresh farmers market tamales and horchata, may soon be able to buy them in stores or by special order.

Read more and discuss: Commissioners Award Grant to Hacienda's Micro Mercante Program

» October 16, 2008 - 0 comments - Front Page News

Photos of the day

The Board had a lively day today. First, because of Jeff's County Digs program, OSALT , Oregon's sustainable agricultural land trust received a transfer of county land to start growing food.

Second, the county granted some funds to help Hacienda build a kitchen to help their micro merchants program.

Check out the photos of our day on Jeff's Flickr page.

Discuss: Photos of the day

» October 16, 2008 - 0 comments - Community Involvement, Front Page News, Karol's Blog

It's election season...do you have your voters guide?

I opened my little mailbox the other day and my ballot pamphlet jumped out at me. It is big, but worth the read. Want to read it online? Visit our Elections Division website here. Our voters guide is online and can help you navigate the candidates and the issues.

If you have any questions you can post them here and we'll help you find your way.

Discuss: It's election season...do you have your voters guide?

» October 14, 2008 - 0 comments - Community Involvement, Front Page News, Karol's Blog

Get ready for flu season

Flu season is beginning and health officials encourage the public to get vaccinated early. Vaccine is arriving at numerous locations, including grocery stores and health care providers. This year’s vaccine is in plentiful supply and is formulated to protect against three new strains of the virus.

According to the Oregon Department of Human Services Public Health Division, nearly 450 Oregonians die of influenza every year. Influenza and related pneumonia is the number one cause of death from infections in Oregon. Nationally, more than 220,000 people are hospitalized with flu complications and flu kills more than 36,000 people annually.

“It is especially important to get vaccinated if you are at greater risk of developing serious flu-related complications, such as pneumonia,” says Paul Lewis, M.D., Deputy Tri-County Health Officer. Groups at higher risk include children aged 6 months to 5 years, pregnant women, people 50 years of age and older, people with chronic medical conditions, and anyone living in a nursing home or long-term care facility.

This year, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that all children from 6 months to 18 years receive flu shots. Children are twice as likely to get influenza as adults. Caregivers, family members, and those who work with higher risk groups are also encouraged to be immunized.

For more information on flu shot locations, call 1-800-SAFENET, or visit www.getaflushot.com or www.flucliniclocator.org

Read more and discuss: Get ready for flu season

» October 13, 2008 - 1 comments - Children and Families, Front Page News, Karol's Blog

October is LGBT History Month

We honor the rights and lives of our LGBT community not just this month, but every month and celebrate with our friends. October 11th is National Coming Out Day and our team will be at the Basic Rights Oregon dinner. National Coming Out Day was founded by Robert Eichberg and Jean O'Leary on October 11, 1988 in celebration of the first gay march on Washington D.C. a year earlier. The purpose of the march and of National Coming Out Day is to promote government and public awareness of gay, bisexual, lesbian and transgender rights. National Coming Out Day is a time to publicly display gay pride. Many choose this day to come out to their parents, friends, co-workers and themselves.

Read more and discuss: October is LGBT History Month

» October 10, 2008 - 0 comments - Community Involvement, Front Page News, Karol's Blog

Use Google search on Jeff's site

We've just added a Google search box to our website (look to your right). Not only can you search for information on District two or just about Jeff, but you can use it to search about anything in Multnomah County. Is there something you can't find? Let us know and we'll add it to our Google engine.

Let us know what you think!

Discuss: Use Google search on Jeff's site

» October 10, 2008 - 0 comments - Front Page News

Big Breakthrough on County Veterans Service Officer Funding

County Veterans Service Officers are at work everyday in each Oregon County, assisting veterans with claims for benefits from the Federal Veterans Administration (VA). These claims tend to be complex, and often times veterans face arbitrary delays and unjust denials. Multnomah County's team of County Veterans Service Officers (CVSOs)--like other CVSOs around the state--advocate for veterans' benefit claims, taking on the VA bureaucracy for clients who cannot do so effectively themselves, fighting for every dollar their clients deserve.

Read more and discuss: Big Breakthrough on County Veterans Service Officer Funding

» October 10, 2008 - 0 comments - Budget, Front Page News, Issues, News, Warren's Blog

Multnomah County Elections announces extended office hours prior to voter registration deadline

The Multnomah County Elections Office will be open to the public on:

· Saturday, October 11: 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

· Tuesday, October 14: 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

· Regular office hours: 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday – Friday.

Multnomah County will be open to the public on Saturday, October 11 from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Tuesday, October 14 from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. for Oregon residents needing to register for the November 4 Election. The Voter Registration deadline is Tuesday, October 14.
The Multnomah County Elections office is located at 1040 SE Morrison Street, Portland. Voter registration cards are available at any Oregon elections office, most banks, post offices, DMV offices, the government section of the phone book and online here.

Voter registration cards can be delivered to the Multnomah County Elections office until 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday, October 14. Registration cards sent by mail must be postmarked by October 14.

Ballots will be mailed Oct. 17. Election Day is Tuesday, November 4.

Discuss: Multnomah County Elections announces extended office hours prior to voter registration deadline

» October 9, 2008 - 0 comments - Community Involvement, Front Page News, Karol's Blog

Cell Phone Recycling starts at Multnomah County!

Today, Multnomah County will begin recycling cell phones in the Multnomah Building and 10 other collection centers throughout the county. This follows a resolution introduced by Commissioner Jeff Cogen and passed unanimously by the Board of County Commissioners earlier this year. The county is partnering with Wireless Alliance – an electronics recycler – to collect and recycle community phones and MP3 players. There is no cost to the county or to residents who bring in their equipment.

The cell phone recycling boxes will be in the following county locations: McCoy Building, North Portland Health Clinic, Elections Building, Yeon Annex, Mid-County Health Clinic, Multnomah County East Building, Multnomah Building, Central Library, Midland Library, Hillsdale Library, and Gresham Library. Residents may bring any type of cell phone, smart phone or mp3 player to be recycled.

Read more and discuss: Cell Phone Recycling starts at Multnomah County!

» October 8, 2008 - 8 comments - Community Involvement, Front Page News, Inner NE, Karol's Blog, Libraries, North Portland, Outer NE

Request for Public Comment - Chain Restaurant Nutrition Labeling Policy Order 08-114

Background: A Chain Restaurant Nutrition Labeling Policy Order was passed in July 2008 by the Multnomah County Board of County Commissioners, acting as Board of Health. The policy requires chain restaurants located in Multnomah County with at least 15 outlets anywhere in the country to: 1) post calorie information for standard menu items on printed menus, menu boards, and food tags and 2) provide information about sodium, carbohydrates, trans fat, and saturated fat for standard menu items upon request by consumers at the time of ordering. By providing nutrition information to customers at the time of ordering, restaurants will play an important role in enabling the dining-out public to make informed choices about what they eat.

Thursday November 6th
1:00 – 3:00 PM
Southeast Health Center
3653 SE 34th Ave. downstairs auditorium
Portland, OR 97202

Thursday November 20th
6:00 – 8:00 PM
426 SW Stark St., 10th Floor
Portland, OR 97232

Read more and discuss: Request for Public Comment - Chain Restaurant Nutrition Labeling Policy Order 08-114

» October 8, 2008 - 2 comments - Community Involvement, Events, Front Page News, Karol's Blog

IRCO Champions Give Jeff a Signed Game Ball

Jeff Cogen and the Board of County Commissioners hosted some special guests at their last meeting. Team BBC, winners of their second straight championship in the Immigrant and Refugee Community Organization's (IRCO) FIRE summer basketball league, visited Jeff's office and were honored at a ceremony during the October 2nd Board meeting.

Discuss: IRCO Champions Give Jeff a Signed Game Ball

» October 7, 2008 - 0 comments - Children and Families, Community Involvement, Front Page News, Human Services, Outer NE, Warren's Blog

Jeff Cogen, star of Candidates Gone Wild

This year, Jeff is the star of Candidates Gone Wild! Ok, maybe not the star of the show, but he's hosting the County Q&A section and I have it on good advice that he is hilarious. The event is coming up on October 13th at the Roseland Theater. Tickets are available at their website.

For those of you who have no idea what I'm talking about, Candidates Gone Wild is a political variety show featuring local candidates, local elected officials, local Portland stars and a crowd full people ready to learn about local politics with a bit of a laugh, too. Join us, Jeff will be a riot.

Discuss: Jeff Cogen, star of Candidates Gone Wild

» October 7, 2008 - 1 comments - Community Involvement, Events, Front Page News, Karol's Blog

Salmon Festival Oct. 11 - 12

The annual Salmon Festival takes place the weekend of October 11- 12 at Oxbow Park east of Gresham. The festival celebrates the return of the fall Chinook salmon to the Sandy River and inspires protection of native salmon and their habitat. Multnomah County is working to help restore salmon runs and the County's Land Use and Transportation Program will have a booth display at the festival showcasing our efforts to improve passage and habitat for migratory fish.

The festival runs from 10:30 am to 5 pm each day and includes displays, activities for kids and grown-ups, food booths, and entertainment. There are tented areas in case of rain. You should also be able to see returning salmon in the Sandy River.

Admission is $8 per vehicle.

Directions: From I-84, take the Troutdale exit (17). Go past the truck stop to the light. Turn right on 257th, go 3 miles to Division Street. Turn left onto Division. Follow the signs 6.5 miles and turn left. Follow the road to the park.

For more information, click here.

Discuss: Salmon Festival Oct. 11 - 12

» October 6, 2008 - 0 comments - Children and Families, Community Involvement, Front Page News, Karol's Blog

"Murmurs" about Jeff

The Willamette Week is murmuring about Jeff in this week's edition:

Pizzicato has agreed to act as a cheese-covered guinea pig for Multnomah County’s plan to put calorie counts on menus of chains with local outlets (see “Food Fight,” WW, July 16, 2008). The idea behind Pizzicato owners Tracy and Mark Frankel marking calories in some of their 19 locations? To test the effect on customer choices compared to stores that don’t display calorie counts.

Read the rest over there.

Discuss: "Murmurs" about Jeff

» October 3, 2008 - 0 comments - Community Involvement, Front Page News, Karol's Blog

Health care goes mobile

Multnomah County Health Department’s Mobile Medical Van expands into East County

The Multnomah County Health Department’s Mobile Medical Clinic has expanded its services into Rockwood. The mobile clinic delivers primary care services to medically needy families and individuals throughout Multnomah County who are currently without health care. The 40-foot clinic provides access to medical care, lab, and screening services at seven designated “host” social service agencies.

According to a recent study of community need in Multnomah, Washington and Yamhill Counties conducted by Providence Health Services, the Rockwood zip code had the highest Community Need Index of all zip codes in the tri-county area. Residents in Rockwood are disproportionately uninsured with 20 percent to 30 percent of the residents lacking health insurance, compared to a county-wide rate of 17 percent.

The Health Department received $25,000 each from Pacific Source Foundation and Providence Health System to establish a site in Rockwood for the first year. In addition, the program receives $123,000 from United Way to help provide mental health care and a $300,000 federal grant from Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), as well as Multnomah County general fund.

The grand opening of the Mobile Medical Clinic’s Rockwood site will be held:

Tuesday, October 7, 2008
10:30 am - 11:30 am
Human Solutions Employment /Gresham Police Department's Rockwood Community Offices
18709 SE Stark St.
503-548-0284

Read more and discuss: Health care goes mobile

» October 2, 2008 - 0 comments - Children and Families, Community Involvement, Front Page News, Human Services, Karol's Blog

November general election preparations for Multnomah County

From the Elections Office:

Elections Office customer service improvements and efficiencies:
o Added two more work stations at the front counter for a total of six
o Added one more work station behind the front counter for front counter supervisor to handle problems; this moves problems away from the front counter work flow
o Added a temporary staff person in the customer waiting area to help keep track of ballot delivery and customer flow
o Added two more phone lines and a permanent staff supervisor for the phone banks on the upper level
o Added Automated Call Distributer (ACD) to the phone system. This will allow for the queuing of calls during peak times and provide us the ability to track call volume instantaneously
o Created a detailed escalation procedure to deal with telephone system problems with County IT/ telecommunications unit
o Developed a detailed 8 pm cut off plan for election night and will be training staff and FSOs on procedures in advance

Read more and discuss: November general election preparations for Multnomah County

» October 1, 2008 - 0 comments - Community Involvement, Front Page News, Karol's Blog

Rosh Hashanah - The Jewish New Year

Rosh Hashanah (Hebrew: ראש השנה‎, literally "head of the year," Biblical: IPA: [ˈɾoʃ haʃːɔˈnɔh], Israeli: [ˈʁoʃ haʃaˈna], Yiddish: [ˈroʊʃ hɑˈʃɔnə]) is a Jewish holiday commonly referred to as the "Jewish New Year." It is observed on the first day of Tishrei, the seventh month of the Hebrew calendar, as ordained in the Torah, in Leviticus 23:24. Rosh Hashanah is the first of the High Holidays or Yamim Noraim ("Days of Awe"), or Asseret Yemei Teshuva (The Ten Days of Repentance) which are days specifically set aside to focus on repentance that conclude with the holiday of Yom Kippur. Rosh Hashanah is the start of the civil year in the Hebrew calendar (one of four "new year" observances that define various legal "years" for different purposes). It is the new year for people, animals, and legal contracts. The Mishnah also sets this day aside as the new year for calculating calendar years and sabbatical (shmita) and jubilee (yovel) years. Rosh Hashanah commemorates the creation of man whereas five days earlier, on 25 of Elul, marks the first day of creation.

Read more and discuss: Rosh Hashanah - The Jewish New Year

» September 30, 2008 - 0 comments - Front Page News, Karol's Blog

Video: Health equity for county residents

Multnomah County is committed to improving health for all County residents by addressing the social conditions in which people live and work. Last week, Warren sat down with Tricia Tillman - program manager for the health equity initiative - for a chat.

Visit their website to get more information on the program, the speak out meetings, and how you can help bring equity to Multnomah County.

Read more and discuss: Video: Health equity for county residents

» September 29, 2008 - 0 comments - Community Involvement, Events, Front Page News, Human Services, Karol's Blog, Warren's Blog

County board endorses a green jobs pledge

Today the Multnomah County Board of County Commissioners voted unanimously to approve a “green jobs pledge,” reaffirming the county’s commitment to sustainable practices and furthering the region’s reputation as a nascent center for green business development. With this action, Multnomah County becomes the first local government in Oregon to sign such a pledge.

Green jobs are jobs that contribute significantly to preserving or enhancing environmental quality; provide career pathways and family wage jobs for all workers; and emphasize community-based investments that cannot be outsourced. They might include duties such as installing solar panels, retrofitting buildings to make them more efficient, constructing transit lines, refining waste oil into biodiesel, erecting wind farms, repairing hybrid cars, building green rooftops or planting trees.

The resolution was brought forward by the Multnomah County Sustainability Program, which looks for ways to connect the benefits of sustainability to the county's core mission as a provider of essential social services.

Read more and discuss: County board endorses a green jobs pledge

» September 25, 2008 - 0 comments - Front Page News

Food Service Advisory Committee seeks volunteers

Multnomah County Environmental Health Services seeks members for their Food Service Advisory Committee. The Advisory Committee provides community and food service industry views and recommendations on the full range of Multnomah County food protection services.

Members of the Advisory Committee are asked to make a commitment of one to three years, and to attend two-hour meetings every other month. Committee members may provide advice on such topics as:

Licensing of food service facilities and related fees

Restaurant inspections

Restaurant closures and revoking licenses due to unsanitary conditions

Multnomah County Health Department’s Environmental Health Division certifies over 22,000 food handlers and conducts nearly 7,000 food service inspections annually in Multnomah County. For more information, contact Lynn George at 503-988-3400 Ext. 28152 or email lynn.m.george@co.multnomah.or.us

Discuss: Food Service Advisory Committee seeks volunteers

» September 23, 2008 - 0 comments - Community Involvement, Front Page News, Karol's Blog

Kenton neighborhood association newsletter

The Kenton Neighborhood Association released their newsletter today and it looks wonderful. There are stories about the North Portland Tool Library, a historic designation for N. Denver's Paul Bunyan and a month-long dine out benefiting the Peninsula School. Download file Check it out!

Discuss: Kenton neighborhood association newsletter

» September 22, 2008 - 0 comments - Community Involvement, Front Page News, Karol's Blog, North Portland

The Blazers Greg Oden is talented in more that just basketball

Hat tip to The Oregonian who posted this story on Greg Oden:

The 7-foot center grabbed the mike at a gathering he threw for the Oregon Mentors program. With a camera rolling, he belted out N'Sync's "It's Gonna Be Me." The Associated Press moved a story about it today and it's landing on sports websites nationwide.

The Oregonian's John Canzano first wrote about it on his blog Sept. 11, calling it the worst karaoke performance by a human over 7 feet tall.

Read the rest of the story here.

Discuss: The Blazers Greg Oden is talented in more that just basketball

» September 19, 2008 - 0 comments - Front Page News

Multnomah County's new chief information officer

Multnomah County today announced that Sherry Swackhamer has been selected for the position of chief information officer (CIO). Swackhamer, currently a senior information technology manager for Multnomah County, will assume the position of CIO on September 16. Swackhamer succeeds former CIO Becky Porter, who left the organization in May, and will report to Chair Ted Wheeler.

See her picture here.

Read more and discuss: Multnomah County's new chief information officer

» September 17, 2008 - 0 comments - Front Page News, Karol's Blog

Latino heritage month

From the County Chair's office:
September 16, 2008

Dear Multnomah County employees,
Our community is celebrating Hispanic Heritage month from September 15th through October 15th. I encourage your participation in the events acknowledging the contributions of the Hispanic community to our history and our future.

When I attended elementary school a couple of decades ago, we didn’t learn a great deal about the Hispanic heritage of Oregon. When my daughter attends elementary school in a few years she will learn much more because she will grow up in a state with a burgeoning Hispanic population.

Understanding our heritage as a community is a critical part of understanding who we are as a people, and Multnomah County’s Board of County Commissioners will adopt a proclamation this Thursday for Hispanic Heritage Month. Please see the attached invitation to
attend a reception following the Board meeting from Commissioner Rojo de Steffey.

More than 10% of Multnomah County’s population is now of Hispanic origin, over 70,000 people. In the year 2000 there were just over 18,000 people of Hispanic origin here. Our community is changing and we need to recognize that in many ways. The Board's proclamation this week is an important symbolic act. Our continuing commitment to
culturally appropriate services and a diverse workforce are the key tools that we use to keep Multnomah County relevant in our changing community.

Please join me in honoring the history, heritage, and people of the County’s Hispanic community.

Sincerely,

Ted Wheeler
Multnomah County Chair

Discuss: Latino heritage month

» September 16, 2008 - 1 comments - Front Page News

Joint session of the City Council and County Commission to swear in youth commissioners

Mayor Tom Potter and County Chair Ted Wheeler and members of Portland City Council and Multnomah County Board of Commissioners will meet in joint session to swear-in returning and new members of the Multnomah Youth Commission. The event will be held at Portland City Hall in Council Chambers from 5:30-6:30 with a reception immediately following.

The Multnomah Youth Commission, comprising 42 members aged 13-21, advises Portland and Multnomah County leaders on public policy issues affecting area youth. Commissioner Kelly Henderson, a freshman at Portland State University, said “Every Youth Commissioner comes from a different background and brings a unique perspective to the table.”

Read more and discuss: Joint session of the City Council and County Commission to swear in youth commissioners

» September 16, 2008 - 0 comments - Children and Families, Community Involvement, Front Page News, Karol's Blog

20 cents per bag in Seattle going to voters

Folks at the City of Portland have tossed around the idea of charging customers for their bags at stores. The reason of course being that these bags have a negative impact on the environment from manufacturing to eventual disposal. In Seattle, the Post-Intelligencer reports that opponents have gathered enough signatures to take it to the ballot:

More than enough valid signatures have been collected by a group that opposes a new fee on paper and plastic bags in Seattle to keep the ordinance from going into effect in January as planned.

Instead, city voters will decide the fate of the disposable bag fee during an election next year.

The City Council passed an ordinance July 28 requiring a 20-cent green fee on plastic or paper bags at grocery and drug stores, setting off a range of reactions from cheers to outcry. The council also banned plastic foam food and drink containers. That rule isn't affected by the referendum and will go into effect Jan. 1.

Are you in favor of a bag tax? Would it drive the market to the reusable grocery bags? My Safeway reusable bag already has a hole in the bottom and I imagine I'll have to replace more of those if I am using it for all my methods of shopping. Thoughts?

Discuss: 20 cents per bag in Seattle going to voters

» September 16, 2008 - 1 comments - Front Page News, Karol's Blog, Sustainability

Pizzicato ready to try placing calories on their menus

Pizzicato Restaurant has taken the bold step of agreeing to help Multnomah County kick off menu labeling. As the Health Department works it's way through the rules for placing calorie counts on menus, Pizzicato will be there to see if those rules work out in practical use.

Pizzicato's help also puts Multnomah County in the research spotlight. There has been no other restaurant chain in the country who has allowed this much access to better track statistics on calorie labeling. These statistics will start to tell the story of menu labeling and whether it affects human behavior. Our health department will lead this research and will be able to share it with other health entities throughout the country. Stay tuned for updates throughout the process!

Discuss: Pizzicato ready to try placing calories on their menus

» September 15, 2008 - 0 comments - Community Involvement, Front Page News, Karol's Blog

Urban/Rural reserves news

From the Hillsboro Argus:
The 31 members of the Urban and Rural Reserves Study Committee weren't ready to dive head-first into the process Wednesday, instead tiptoeing into the turbid waters of land management in the Portland metro area.

The committee gave a silent, unanimous affirmation to a study area for urban and rural reserves at its September meeting, enabling Metro staff to begin examining lands within that study area for attributes that make areas well-suited for protection or development.

Read more and discuss: Urban/Rural reserves news

» September 12, 2008 - 0 comments - Front Page News, Karol's Blog, News

Sam Adams to speak at County PRISM group

Mayor Elect Sam Adams is coming to address Multnomah County's PRISM group on Tuesday, October 7, 2008 from 3:00pm to 5:00pm at the Multnomah Building in the Commissioners’ Board Room.

PRISM stands for pride, respect, integrity for sexual minorities. Their mission is to build cultural diversity in Multnomah County by:
• Building community among LGBTQ (Lesbian, Gay, Bi-Sexual, Transgender, Queer/Questioning) county employees and their supporters.
• Striving for a safe diverse and respectful work environment.
• Advocating for equity and fairness in county employment and the delivery of county services.
• Strengthening county presence in the broader LGBTQ community.

Discuss: Sam Adams to speak at County PRISM group

» September 12, 2008 - 0 comments - Events, Front Page News, Karol's Blog

Food Works program - good for kids, great for the community

The Food Works program - a part of Janus Youth Program’s Village Gardens - is an innovative project that receives monies from Multnomah County. I could tell you about it, but it's more wonderful to watch it. Rebecca Gerendasy of Cooking Up a Story made this short film:

Thanks, Rebecca, for the story and thanks to Janus Youth for their great work.

Discuss: Food Works program - good for kids, great for the community

» September 10, 2008 - 0 comments - Children and Families, Community Involvement, Front Page News, Karol's Blog, North Portland

The Hollywood Senior Center

In District Two, there is a pretty cool place called the Hollywood Senior Center. Every couple of months we get a newsletter of there goings on and they seem to know how to throw a party everyday. There's ceramics class, Tai Chi, Spanish class, bunco, quilting and creative writing.

But, what has propelled me to share with you all about this center is the weekly Nintendo Wii sports and bowling tournaments! First of all, how did they get there hands on this desired game console and how cool is it to have a tournament? The festivities are every Wednesday at 1pm. Visit the Hollywood Senior Center at 1820 NE 40th Ave to check it out.

Discuss: The Hollywood Senior Center

» September 4, 2008 - 0 comments - Community Involvement, Front Page News, Inner NE, Karol's Blog

Hawthorne Bridge closed; Broadway Bridge lane closure

The Hawthorne Bridge will be closed on Sunday, September 7 from 6:00 am until as late as 7:00 pm for an inspection. Motor vehicles, pedestrians and bicyclists will not be allowed on the bridge, which will be in the raised position much of the day. The bridge lift span will remain open for river traffic to pass.

The closure will allow a county crew to inspect critical weight-bearing parts in the bridge towers called sheave trunnions. Sets of sheave trunnions and bearings support the weight of the bridge’s 900-ton lift span and two 450-ton counterweights. The trunnions are inspected every few years to ensure that they are in good condition. The Hawthorne Bridge, which opened in 1910, is the oldest working vertical lift bridge in the country.

Also on Sunday, the outer westbound traffic lane of the Broadway Bridge will be closed and the bridge lift span will be unable to open for river traffic from 8:00 am to 9:00 am during the Pints to Pasta Run.

Alternate river crossings include the Burnside, Morrison, Marquam and Ross Island bridges.

Multnomah County maintains the Hawthorne and Broadway bridges and more than 300 miles of roads and bridges.

Discuss: Hawthorne Bridge closed; Broadway Bridge lane closure

» September 3, 2008 - 0 comments - Front Page News

Rep. Shields Calls on N/NE Portland to Participate in Health Fund Board Meeting Sept. 8

From Representative Chip Shields:
Rep. Chip Shields (D-N/NE Portland) issued a call today for residents of North and Northeast Portland to participate in a town hall forum hosted by the Oregon Health Fund Board, Monday, September 8 at the Oregon Convention Center. The event, one of 10 statewide community town hall forums hosted by Board , will take place from 6:30 to 9 p.m.

Read more and discuss: Rep. Shields Calls on N/NE Portland to Participate in Health Fund Board Meeting Sept. 8

» September 3, 2008 - 0 comments - Community Involvement, Front Page News, Inner NE, Karol's Blog, North Portland

Jazz on the Mississippi

A great event is coming to North Portland on September 11th. The Diversity Institute is presenting Jazz on the Mississippi. It will start a 6pm and end at 10pm on Mississippi between Beech and Shaver.

The main stage lineup includes: Gretchen Mitchell, The Columbian Princess, and Band on "Q". For more information, contact Harold C. Williams two at 503-287-9836.

Discuss: Jazz on the Mississippi

» September 2, 2008 - 0 comments - Community Involvement, Events, Front Page News, Karol's Blog

Join Jeff's Facebook group

Are you a member of Facebook? Well so is Jeff! He also has a Facebook group going called Jeff Cogen is my County Commissioner. We'll be posting various items at his Facebook page that will be of interest to the community and offer everyone the opportunity to chat up Jeff about whatever is interesting, something we always can't do on our blog. Even if you aren't in District Two, please feel free to use this as a platform to share questions or concerns, we love new friends. See you there!

Discuss: Join Jeff's Facebook group

» August 27, 2008 - 0 comments - Community Involvement, Front Page News, Inner NE, Jeff's Blog, North Portland, Outer NE

Health Equity Initiative

In March 2008, Multnomah County and communities across the country launched what has been the largest discussion locally on the connections between healthy bodies, healthy bank accounts, and skin color. Unnatural Causes: Is Inequality Making Us Sick?, a documentary about the societal causes of illness, was aired in a series of public screenings followed by community discussions. Over 600 community members viewed Unnatural Causes and participated in discussions. The Multnomah County Health Equity Initiative collected the ideas participants offered on policy change and service improvements to make Multnomah County a healthy and vibrant community for all.

Commissioner Cogen strongly supports the Health Equity Initiative, appreciates the work of all the outstanding County employees involved in pulling together this effort, applauds the broad community participation we have seen so far, and urges you to consider attending one of the upcoming September or October events listed at the end of this post.

Read more and discuss: Health Equity Initiative

» August 26, 2008 - 0 comments - Children and Families, Community Involvement, Front Page News, Human Services, Issues, Neighborhoods, News, Warren's Blog

Sellwood Bridge closed tonight for repairs - August 26th

The Sellwood Bridge will be closed tonight again for repairs. The bridge will be closed to traffic (except for bicycles and pedestrians) from 6:30 pm to 5:00 am. The closure is expected to be the final one for a project that has filled concrete cracks in the bridge to prevent steel corrosion and further cracking.

Discuss: Sellwood Bridge closed tonight for repairs - August 26th

» August 26, 2008 - 0 comments - Front Page News

Video: Oregon Ballet Theater Exposed August 25th - 30th

Thanks to Just Out Magazine for posting this great event from Oregon Ballet Theater:

Christopher Stowell’s Portland-based classical dance company on the ascendant - does great community service each late summer by opening their usually closed company classes, rehearsals and other insider-y looks at OBT to big audiences on the Portland Park Blocks (at the corner of Park and Main Streets).
It's called OBT Exposed, check out the video from last summer.


Click here for the schedule!

Discuss: Video: Oregon Ballet Theater Exposed August 25th - 30th

» August 25, 2008 - 0 comments - Events, Front Page News, Karol's Blog

Multnomah County announces appointments for medical director and dental director

Multnomah County Health Department has announced the appointment of Amit Shah, MD as medical director. Dr. Shah has served as a health department staff physician since 2000 and was named assistant medical director in 2006. He received his medical training at the Hahnemann University School of Medicine in Philadelphia and completed a Family Medicine residency at the Northern New Mexico Family Practice Program. Dr. Shah is currently studying for a master’s degree in Biomedical Informatics at Oregon Health Sciences University (OHSU). He will replace Patsy Kullberg, MD, MPH who has served as the Health Department’s medical director for the past 20 years. Dr. Shah will provide medical supervision for the Multnomah County Health Department.

Alyssa Franzen, DMD was named Multnomah County dental director. She has a bachelor’s of science degree from University of Portland in Chemistry, receiving recognition and the university’s first U.S. patent for her team’s research with Yew trees and the anti-cancer drug Taxol. Franzen completed her doctoral studies at Oregon Health Sciences University School of Dentistry, followed by a Public Health Fellowship with the Community Dentistry Department at OHSU. She joined the health department in 2000 as a staff dentist working primarily with young children and will now administer the clinical practice of four county dental clinics, corrections health dental services and the School and Community Dental Program.

Discuss: Multnomah County announces appointments for medical director and dental director

» August 25, 2008 - 0 comments - Front Page News, Human Services, Karol's Blog

Multnomah County Planning Commission seeks new member

Multnomah County’s Land Use Planning division announced today an open recruitment for a vacant seat on the county’s planning commission.

The Multnomah County Planning Commission addresses rural land use planning issues. The work of the Commission helps the County meet state planning requirements and policies set forth buy the Multnomah County Board of County Commissioners.

The Planning Commission makes recommendations to the Board of County Commissioners on legislative proposals to amend components of the Comprehensive Framework Plan, zoning code and other regulatory ordinances intended to carry out the plan as adopted by the Board.

Read more and discuss: Multnomah County Planning Commission seeks new member

» August 18, 2008 - 0 comments - Front Page News

9th Circut protects domestic partnerships

Multnomah County domestic partners can breathe a little easier today and we are thrilled! From Oregon Live:

9th Circuit: No vote on Oregon's domestic part[n]ership law
by The Oregonian
Thursday August 14, 2008, 10:09 AM
A federal appeals court Thursday refused to an attempt to force a vote on Oregon's domestic partnership law.

Opponents of domestic partnerships collected signatures for a referendum, but elections officials said they came short.

They sued, saying valid signatures were not counted.

A federal judge disagreed, and the U.S. 9th Circuit Court of Appeals affirmed that decision.

Opponents of domestic partnerships can still try to appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court, but have little time.

-- Ashbel S. Green; tongreen@news.oregonian.com

Discuss: 9th Circut protects domestic partnerships

» August 14, 2008 - 0 comments - Front Page News

A very cool map of North and Northeast Portland

Check out this great map from the Swan Island Business Association! From their website:

Living close to where you work is one sweet deal.

Historic North/Northeast Portland offers great opportunities in a dozen re-energized communities, all just mapminutes from the region’s highest concentration of well paying jobs, from ship building to shoe design to steel production.

Add schools on the upswing, four (soon to be five) public libraries, three colleges and universities, great parks and green spaces, and the question becomes “Why not live close to where you work?”

Read the rest over there.

Discuss: A very cool map of North and Northeast Portland

» August 13, 2008 - 0 comments - Front Page News, Inner NE, Karol's Blog, North Portland, Outer NE

Video: Brochures with calories instead of menus

This video shows regular folks trying to find calorie information on the brochures given out by fast food restaurants. Watch the hijinks!

Discuss: Video: Brochures with calories instead of menus

» August 11, 2008 - 0 comments - Front Page News, Karol's Blog

Animal House adoption party was a success!

From Animal Serives' Mike Oswald:
Whether we volunteer our “extra” time, make animal care our life’s work, or choose to adopt our pets from the shelter, we do it from the heart—and for the animals! When we all came together on Friday, Aug 1st, to dedicate a day to adopting MCAS animals, the results were spectacular. FORTY-ONE volunteers showed up to help out, dedicating a whopping 216+ hours to the cause. Some stayed the entire 13 hours; some worked all day and volunteered all evening. All came with a “can-do” attitude and enjoyed mingling with the public, staff, and other volunteers. Multnomah County Chair Ted Wheeler and his family joined us in the celebration.

Read more and discuss: Animal House adoption party was a success!

» August 5, 2008 - 0 comments - Community Involvement, Front Page News, Karol's Blog

Summer Fun: A pie baking contest!

Hey Portland, its a Pie-Off! Our NOPO friend, Lelo in Nopo as introduced us to a pie-off that is going on at the end of the month. Check out the website.
Yours truly plans to enter a delicious pie, I think thinking the apple variety. Check out the Pie-Off website and get the details to join us for some summer fun!

Discuss: Summer Fun: A pie baking contest!

» August 5, 2008 - 2 comments - Community Involvement, Front Page News, Karol's Blog

Welcome to Medicare class helps new enrollees

Multnomah County Aging Disability Services is collaborating with Mt. Hood Community College to present a free two-hour class for those new to Medicare. “Welcome to Medicare” is designed for people nearing age 65 or those who become eligible due to receiving Social Security Disability benefits.

The following classes will be held August through November:

Thursday, August 14, 2008 from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m
Saturday, August 16, 2008 from 10:00 a.m. to noon.
Thursday, September 25, 2008 from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Saturday, September 27, 2008 from 10:00 a.m. to noon.
Thursday, October 23, 2008 from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Saturday, November 1, 2008 from 10 a.m. to noon.
Thursday, November 13, 2008 from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Saturday, November 15, 2008 from 10:00 a.m. to noon.
The course number is HE4MC.

Read more and discuss: Welcome to Medicare class helps new enrollees

» August 4, 2008 - 0 comments - Front Page News, Human Services, Karol's Blog

Sellwood crack repairs aim to extend bridge life

From Public Affairs:
Sellwood Bridge repairs scheduled for August are designed to extend the service life of the bridge by filling concrete cracks to prevent steel corrosion and further cracking. Field work is expected to begin on Monday, August 11, 2008 and last two weeks. The work will require the bridge to be closed to traffic (except for bikes and pedestrians) on six nights, August 15th and August 18th through 22nd, from 6:30 pm to 5:00 am.

The vehicle weight limit on the bridge was reduced to 10 tons in 2004 after cracks were found in concrete girders that support the bridge deck. This summer’s repairs will not allow those weight limits to be increased. But the project should extend the life of the bridge at its current service level until a long-term solution is implemented.

Read more and discuss: Sellwood crack repairs aim to extend bridge life

» August 1, 2008 - 0 comments - Front Page News

State PUC Action Allows Landmark County Solar Deal to Proceed

Today the Oregon Public Utility Commission (PUC) issued a decision which affirms the net metering provisions of Oregon’s utility regulations and clears the way for Multnomah County to proceed with its 1,000,000 kWh per year solar project on county rooftops. The PUC filing, (docket number DR40) brought jointly by Pacific Power and Honeywell, threatened to scuttle Multnomah County’s and many other Oregon solar projects under development. Today’s PUC ruling disposes of that filing completely.

(Read more and link to today's PUC ruling after the break)

Read more and discuss: State PUC Action Allows Landmark County Solar Deal to Proceed

» July 31, 2008 - 0 comments - Front Page News, Issues, News, Sustainability, Warren's Blog

Menu labeling passes!

The Multnomah County Board of Commissioners, acting as the County Board of Health, passed a health department policy mandating fast food and chain restaurant establishments to display caloric content on their menu items next week. Commissioner Maria Rojo de Steffy was the dissenting vote. This policy would apply to restaurants with at least fifteen or more outlets nationwide and who offer substantially the same menu items across outlets, regardless of whether the food establishments are subject to the same ownership or type of ownership. This will not affect smaller establishments nor will it affect seasonal menu items or items on the menus for 60 days or less.
See pictures...

Read more and discuss: Menu labeling passes!

» July 31, 2008 - 1 comments - Front Page News

Menu labeling media round-up

It's been a busy few weeks leading up to Jeff's menu labeling policy being introduced tomorrow. Here is an easy guide to the latest stories:

Connecting mind to mouth
The Oregonian - OregonLive.com - Portland,OR,USA
Next week, Multnomah County will weigh a new requirement for chain restaurants that would improve the mind-to-mouth connection. ...

Coffee Shop Menus May Have To Include Calorie Counts
KPTV.com, OR - Jul 27, 2008
PORTLAND, Ore. -- Multnomah County commissioners will soon vote on forcing restaurant and coffee house chains to post calories and other health facts on ...

MultCo Calorie Rule Looking Wobbly After Restaurant Lobby Steps In
Willamette Week - Portland,OR,USA
Multnomah County Commissioner Jeff Cogen's effort to force chain restaurants to provide calorie counts on their menus may tank next week after the Oregon ...

Plan would let diners count calories on menu
The Oregonian - OregonLive.com - Portland,OR,USA
The guessing game could end soon for restaurant-goers with a proposed new rule requiring about 90 chains throughout Portland and Multnomah County to post ...

Calorie labels: A right to know?
The Oregonian - OregonLive.com - Portland,OR,USA
The article on Multnomah County's calorie count rule for chain restaurants ("Calorie list would give diners a bit more to chew on," July 27) really struck a ...

Ore. county considers requiring calorie info
The Oregonian - OregonLive.com - Portland,OR,USA
(AP) — Multnomah County commissioners are weighing whether to require dozens of Portland-area chain restaurants to include calorie counts on their menus. ...

Oregon county mulls calorie info
Multnomah County looks at chain restaurants.
News | NRtoday.com - The News-Review... - http://www.nrtoday.com

Should restaurants be required to display nutrition information?
By Metroknow
Here is a summary, as quoted from the Multnomah County Health Department’s information site:. PROPOSED POLICY. 1. Applies only to major chain restaurants with at least 15 nation-wide outlets. ·Small businesses are exempt to avoid undue ...

Menu Labels: Should we know what we're ordering?
By urbanmamas
I recently found out that Multnomah County Commissioners are deciding this week on a proposal to require chain restaurants throughout the county to post calorie information. Would you support this proposal? ...

Of Menus and Bags
By BlueOregon.com
The guessing game could end soon for restaurant-goers with a proposed new rule requiring about 90 chains throughout Portland and Multnomah County to post calorie counts on their menus and ordering boards -- right beside their pastrami

Multnomah County considers requiring calorie info
"It's not telling people what they should eat, it's not preventing them from eating things that are unhealthy," said Commissioner Jeff Cogen, who is sponsoring the proposal that has divided the board. "It's giving people the information ...

Discuss: Menu labeling media round-up

» July 30, 2008 - 0 comments - Front Page News, Karol's Blog, News

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 - 2 comments - Front Page News, Marissa's Blog, Outer NE, Sustainability

Animal House adoption party!

Multnomah County Animal Services will transform its dog adoption kennels to Delta Omega Gamma fraternity, and its Cattery into the Kappa Alpha Tau sorority at the Animal House Adoption Party. This 13-hour pet adoption party, complete with togas and a root beer keg from Widmer Brewery, is scheduled for Friday, August 1, 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 midnight.

The Animal House Adoption Party is an adoption and fundraising event that will highlight the many dogs and cats waiting for adoption at the shelter. All adoptable animals are spayed and neutered, licensed and microchipped, and are ready for a loving home. For those interested in adopting, but your pet isn’t here today? Make sure you get a coupon to lock in the reduced adoption fees through August 31.

Read more and discuss: Animal House adoption party!

» July 29, 2008 - 0 comments - Community Involvement, Front Page News, Karol's Blog

Video: Jeff takes a fast food calorie quiz

With all this talk about menu labeling, we thought it appropriate that Jeff put his money where his mouth is...so to speak. Together with his lovely daughter, Johanna, they took a fast food quiz given by our health eating guru, Sonia:

Take a fast food quiz yourself, here.
The Board of County Commissioners will take a vote on Download file">this policy July 31st at 11am. Let us know what you think!

Discuss: Video: Jeff takes a fast food calorie quiz

» July 28, 2008 - 0 comments - Front Page News, Karol's Blog, Videos

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

The Oregonian supports menu labeling

Jeff has received some great support for his menu labeling policy this morning from The Oregonian:

The research shows that even nutritionists fumble when they try to guess which restaurant items are better for them, and which worse. And if they're in the dark, the rest of us are in serious trouble. No wonder so many Americans support nutritional labeling in restaurants. We spend roughly half of our food dollar eating out, and consume about a third of our calories in restaurants; it might help to know a little more about what we're doing.

Where calories are concerned, there's clearly such a thing as too much of a good thing. But if you're trying to eat with your brain, as well as your mouth, there's no such thing as too much information.

Read the rest.

Discuss: The Oregonian supports menu labeling

» July 25, 2008 - 2 comments - Front Page News

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

Potential 3rd Runway at PDX Out

Looks like those rascally, run-away oil prices have claimed another victim: the controversial third runway at PDX. While residents of Northeast Portland's Cully neighborhood rejoice, the Portland Tribune reports:

"The skyrocketing price of oil has killed the “800-pound gorilla” that had been hanging around Portland International Airport for much of the past eight or nine years: the possibility of a third parallel runway at the airport....

In 1999, the airport’s master plan forecast that by 2020, there would be 485,000 takeoffs and landings at PDX — which the master plan indicated would produce something close to airplane gridlock on the airport’s two parallel northwest-southeast runways. That 1999 forecast followed a significant increase in airport use, and number of passengers, at PDX throughout the 1990s. By 1999, there were 322,000 takeoffs and landings at the airport.

But the terrorist attacks of September 2001 decimated air travel for more than a year afterwards. And takeoffs and landings at the airport have yet to reach that 1999 level. Takeoffs and landings last year totaled 264,000.

Early this year, airport officials produced new forecasts. And the current “median” forecast — the middle number among three forecast scenarios — is that takeoffs and landings will total 385,000 by 2035. That’s still below the number where a third runway would be needed.

“We’re far, far away from needing a third parallel runway,” said Chris Corich, general manager of long range planning for the airport."

What say you Northeast Portlanders?

Discuss: Potential 3rd Runway at PDX Out

» July 21, 2008 - 0 comments - Front Page News, Marissa's Blog

Menu labeling changing behavior?

Listen to this NPR story from the show Day to Day on New York's new menu labeling policy. What do you think?

Discuss: Menu labeling changing behavior?

» July 18, 2008 - 1 comments - Front Page News

Take the poll on menu labeling

News Radio 1190 KEX has posted a poll about Commissioner Cogen's proposed menu labeling policy. What do you think? You can take the KEX poll here. Please come back and let us know how you voted!

Discuss: Take the poll on menu labeling

» July 17, 2008 - 12 comments - Front Page News

Menu labeling could become a "Food Fight"

Jeff is making news today with his proposed menu labeling policy. This, from the Willamette Week:

The Multnomah County Board of Commissioners is set to vote July 31 on a proposal by Commissioner Jeff Cogen and the county health department requiring chain restaurants to put calorie counts on menus.

The premise: Reading that your grande peppermint white-chocolate mocha packs 530 calories, or that your ultimate bacon cheeseburger has 1,060, will scare diners into eating and drinking healthier.

The proposed policy goes before the Board on July 31st.

Read the rest here and come back and let us know what you think.

Discuss: Menu labeling could become a "Food Fight"

» July 16, 2008 - 4 comments - Front Page News, Karol's Blog

I-5 Bridge: How do you feel?

The Columbia River Crossing - otherwise known as the I-5 bridge - is causing quite the uproar around Portland. Residents and groups focused on the environment are not in favor of the proposed models; they do not feel it meets all levels of sustainability, among other things. Others are worried about health impacts and some just worried that it's going to be ugly.

Why are we talking about it? Well, the southern end of any bridge would land in District two. That impacts constituents in various ways from health impacts (such as air quality and noise) to displacement. So what do you think - bridge or no bridge?

Discuss: I-5 Bridge: How do you feel?

» July 8, 2008 - 5 comments - Community Involvement, Front Page News, Karol's Blog, Sustainability

Urban/Rural reserves public meetings

Public meetings seek community input on long-range land use planning
Clackamas, Multnomah, Washington counties join Metro and residents to help select Urban, Rural Reserves

Residents of Multnomah County and the entire Portland metropolitan area are invited to join a conversation about how our region will take shape at open houses scheduled in July.

Multnomah County, Clackamas County, Washington County and Metro are leading a regional effort to designate urban and rural reserves to accommodate future growth and protect valuable farmland, forest land and natural areas that define the character of this region.

Urban and rural reserves will provide greater predictability for landowners, farmers and communities about where the urban growth boundary may expand over the next 40 to 50 years, while protecting important farmland and natural areas from urbanization for that same period of time.

A Regional Reserves Steering Committee has been established, made up of city officials, representatives from agricultural, business, environmental and conservation communities, and social and economic equity organizations, and a commissioner from each county and a Metro councilor. On June 9 the committee approved an initial broad study area—approximately five miles outside the Metro urban growth boundary—as a starting place for considering areas to be designated as reserves.

Read more and discuss: Urban/Rural reserves public meetings

» July 1, 2008 - 0 comments - Front Page News

A cat that looks like Yoda

It's a bit quiet this week here in District 2. Last week we had several victories and as we recover from the elation, we look forward to the next challenge. Until then, I present to you Yoda the Cat.

Here is Yoda's story: Yoda is a black male Exotic Shorthair Mix. He is approximately 3 years old and weighs about 10.6 lbs. He has been neutered. Found SE Salquist and Williams. Yoda is such a great cat, a staff favorite here. He has lived with other cats and dogs, and is quite the curious and friendly boy! If you want to adopt this space age kitty, visit here.

Discuss: A cat that looks like Yoda

» July 1, 2008 - 0 comments - Front Page News

$4+ gas = Observable Behavior Changes

by Marissa Madrigal

I've been completely fascinated lately by the change sweeping our city as gas prices have shot into ridiculously un-affordable territory. I for one, no longer drive to work. It sure seems like traffic in general is lighter, even when seasonally adjusted. I've also noticed our perception of "personal space" is shrinking, as anyone who has crammed onto a crowded bus or max in the last few months can attest.

But because things have morphed so quickly, new problems are popping up. Take this story about the no vacancy sign out for bikes on the Max. Sure, it's never been a sure thing that your bike would fit on the Max, especially during rush hour - but kicking bikes (and their riders) off? It's kind of weird. Everything seems a little bit off. Not in a bad way necessarily, just off. Like we're living in Bizarro Portland in a galaxy far, far away.

What do all of you see happening out there? Are you, your friends and family making personal adjustments to cope? Send us your observations and thoughts about the changes you're seeing in Portland on this fine Friday afternoon.

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» June 27, 2008 - 1 comments - Children and Families, Front Page News, Human Services, Marissa's Blog, Sustainability

Summer strawberry love on a Friday

It's strawberry time in Oregon and we can't wait to dig in to some strawberry shakes. Well, I can't. But even better than that, our favorite North Portland writer, Lelo in Nopo, has some great strawberry items on her blog. She's got strawberry cupcakes, frosting, drinks and great photos. Check her out there and in Just Out magazine.

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