News
Multnomah County's Sara Ryan Wins Oregon Book Award!
Sara Ryan, author and Multnomah County Library Teen Services Specialist, has won an Oregon Book Award for the second time - proving beyond a shadow of a doubt that Multnomah County employees ROCK!
Here's the announcement from Library Director Molly Raphael:
"Please join me in congratulating and celebrating MCL Teen Services Specialist Sara Ryan's win last night of an Oregon Book Award - the Leslie Bradshaw Award for Young Adult Literature. The book is The Rules for Hearts, and this is Sara's second win of an Oregon Book Award. We celebrate the great personal achievement that this is for Sara and are grateful to know that MCL can hold the commitment of such a dedicated and creative employee. We all wonder here how Sara can do so much for teens through our library and still find time to be an award-winning author!"
Feel free to leave a kind shout-out to Sara in the comments!
Discuss: Multnomah County's Sara Ryan Wins Oregon Book Award!
» November 12, 2008 - 0 comments - Libraries, Marissa's Blog, Top Stories
Hollywood Library has cell phone recycling!
Ask and you shall receive! The Hollywood Library branch - one of the busiest - now has a cell phone recycling box. It's located in the lobby, opposite of the book return. Bring by your phones, chargers, headsets, MP3 players and IPODs to be recycled. The other library branches that have boxes are Gresham, Central, Hillsdale and Midland.
Discuss: Hollywood Library has cell phone recycling!
» November 10, 2008 - 1 comments - Karol's Blog, Libraries, Sustainability, Top Stories
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
Jeff Cogen named interim chair of the Human Rights Commission
The Human Rights Commission is actually a returning entity. Portland formed a similar commission in 1948, but it was cut from the budget in 2003.Multnomah County Commissioner Jeff Cogen, the interim chairman of the group, opened the meeting with an acknowledgment of the significance of launching the commission on the day following the election of a person of color to the U.S. presidency
Read the rest here.
Discuss: Jeff Cogen named interim chair of the Human Rights Commission
» November 7, 2008 - 0 comments - Top Stories
Multnomah County Commission results too close to call
We don't yet know who Jeff's cohorts will be on the County Commission. In District 3 it's Judy Shiprack vs. Mike Delman and in District 4 it's Carla Piluso vs. Diane McKeel. It is just too close to call and our Elections Office is diligently working to get not the fast result, but the right one. Hold tight, folks.
Discuss: Multnomah County Commission results too close to call
» November 5, 2008 - 0 comments - Top Stories
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
SolarWorld Grand Opening
Earlier this month, Commissioner Cogen attended the grand opening celebration of the new SolarWorld AG factory in Hillsboro. The plant is now up and running, producing thousands of photovoltaic solar cells everyday.
Read more and discuss: SolarWorld Grand Opening
» October 30, 2008 - 0 comments - Events, Sustainability, Top Stories, Warren's Blog
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.
Discuss: Pizzicato gets kudos for kicking off menu labeling
» October 21, 2008 - 0 comments - Front Page News, Karol's Blog
Who Killed the Electric Car? Let's ask Jeff.
The Sustainability Film Series continues with a showing of "Who Killed the Electric Car" at The Bagdad Theater. Jeff will be hosting this event on Sunday, October 26th at 5:00pm. You'll learn about the resistance to this alternative form of transportation and you can chat up Jeff and his opinions on these cars. Watch the clip below:
Here's the movie's official website.
Discuss: Who Killed the Electric Car? Let's ask Jeff.
» October 21, 2008 - 2 comments - Community Involvement, Events, Karol's Blog, Sustainability, Top Stories
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
Voter Registration Deadline TODAY!
If you haven't yet registered to vote for the November General election, today is your last chance! New voter registrations must be dropped off at the County Elections Office or Postmarked by today, October 14th!
For your convenience:
Voter Registrations Forms can be downloaded here:
Completed and Signed Voter Registration Forms can be dropped off here:
Multnomah County Elections
1040 SE Morrison St
Portland OR 97214
503-988-3720
You can get your form Postmarked TODAY as late as 8:30 pm at the Airport Post office.
7640 NE AIRPORT WAY
PORTLAND, OR 97238-9998
(503) 335-7918
Not sure if you're registered? Visit:
VOTE!
Discuss: Voter Registration Deadline TODAY!
» October 14, 2008 - 0 comments - Top Stories
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 - 0 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 - 6 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 - 1 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
Time for trees from Friends of Trees
Tree plantings will start around town very soon. Visit their website and see when there are tree plantings in your neighborhood.
I got a lovely tree - a Japanese Persimmon - this January. What happens is if you want a tree, you get to volunteer. You can volunteer in several ways, not just digging holes. It's a wonderful way to get a tree and help many of your neighbors get trees at the same time.
Discuss: Time for trees from Friends of Trees
» October 6, 2008 - 0 comments - Community Involvement, Karol's Blog, Top Stories
"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
Five minutes with Jeff
Jeff spent five minutes with the publisher of Portland Family Magazine, Janna Mock-Lopez. You can learn a lot about a person in five minutes. Check it out!
Discuss: Five minutes with Jeff
» October 3, 2008 - 0 comments - Children and Families, Karol's Blog, Top Stories
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
Abandoned and neglected dog now the picture of health
When Dolly the Dachshund arrived at Multnomah County Animal Services (MCAS), she exhibited signs of severe animal mistreatment and neglect. But despite her obvious medical problems, MCAS staff and their veterinary hospital team were immediately captivated by Dolly’s spirit.
“She was in pretty bad shape when she arrived at the shelter, with a severe case of mange,” said Dr. Meghan Romney, head of Shelter Medicine at Multnomah County Animal Services. “Everyone who cared for her was touched by Dolly’s sweet disposition and spirit.”
Before pic of Dolly here and after pics of Dolly here.
An animal care donation fund is being re-named “Dolly’s Fund” to help finance medical care for animal patients like Dolly. “We see dozens of neglected and mistreated pets like Dolly every year, some in very serious condition. Concerned pet lovers can contribute to Dolly’s Fund to increase our ability to treat more homeless pets in our shelter hospital,” says Mike Oswald, director of Multnomah County Animal Services.
Read more and discuss: Abandoned and neglected dog now the picture of health
» October 2, 2008 - 0 comments - Community Involvement, Karol's Blog, Top Stories
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
Letter from Chair Wheeler to county employees
As we watch the economic upheaval at the national level I know that you are concerned, as I am, about the impact on Multnomah County. While our national economic situation is more precarious than any time in recent memory, Multnomah County has faced a fundamental
imbalance of declining revenues and rising costs, such as inflation, for many years now.
Since I took office, fiscal stability has remained a high priority. Unfortunately, this has meant a number of staff and service reductions. As the national economic picture worsens, I expect that
even more cuts will become inevitable in the next budget cycle. These decisions are not easy, but we are committed to the belief that facing up to our challenges and taking clear, thoughtful
action will help us weather the economic storm. As we await further developments on the national scene, I wanted to share with you some analysis.
Read more and discuss: Letter from Chair Wheeler to county employees
» September 30, 2008 - 0 comments - Budget, Karol's Blog, Top Stories
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
new green roof opens at the Central Library
The Central Library downtown is unveiling it's newest collection: environmentally friendly plants on the new 5th floor green roof. From Maria Rojo de Steffey's office:
On Thursday, September 25, Multnomah County Commissioner Maria Rojo de Steffey will host a celebration marking the completion of a new eco-roof at the historic Central Library building. The event will take place in view of the eco-roof on the fifth floor of Central Library, 801 SW 10th Avenue, at 2:00 p.m.“This project reflects Multnomah County’s commitment to healthy communities and a healthy environment,” said Commissioner Maria Rojo de Steffey who led the project. “Thanks to our partners, this will essentially be a cost-neutral project for the county, which is especially important in our current fiscal climate.”
Read more about the project after the jump.
Read more and discuss: new green roof opens at the Central Library
» September 25, 2008 - 0 comments - Karol's Blog, Libraries, Top Stories
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
Looking for a ballot measure guide? Ballotpedia is here.
Ballots will be mailed to Multnomah County residents in less than four weeks and many residents don't know what measures will be on the ballot. There are measures ranging from determining teachers' pay to teaching English only in public schools.
As I was Googling around to find a plain-spoken explanation of the measures, I came across Ballotpedia.org, a website dedicated to explaining ballot measures. It's helped me understand a couple of measures so far and I look forward to learning about the rest. Check it out.
Discuss: Looking for a ballot measure guide? Ballotpedia is here.
» September 23, 2008 - 0 comments - Top Stories
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.
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
County plan to avoid heavy Election Day traffic
Story about our Elections Division in the Sept. 10th Portland Tribune:
Multnomah County Elections Division, bracing for a huge voter turnout because of the presidential race, has acquired larger drop-off boxes to go along with traffic-control remedies adopted last year to ease congestion at the main elections office on 1040 S.E. Morrison St.
Discuss: County plan to avoid heavy Election Day traffic
» September 15, 2008 - 4 comments - Karol's Blog, News, Sidebar Alerts
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
Jeff in the news - tax cases
Multnomah commissioners' votes are hard to predict in tax cases
-- Arthur Sulzberger; arthursulzberger@news.oregonian.com
When it comes to taxes, Multnomah County Chairman Ted Wheeler says consistency ensures fairness.
Which made Thursday's split vote rejecting a Portland man's request for an income tax break uncomfortable for all involved.
County commissioners got themselves in a tangle trying to explain their latest decision -- the opposite outcome of a similar case they considered less than two months ago when they approved a tax break for a wealthy Portland attorney over the objections of their staff.
A voter-approved emergency income tax ran from 2003 to 2005 to help cash-strapped local schools. The county collected $371 million but is still trying to collect about $10 million from people who haven't paid. Among those are Raymond Rask and Ric Ball.
In July, with just three members in attendance, the board voted to cut Rask's income tax bills in half -- based on his argument that the Portland lawyer's primary residence was in Manzanita.
Commissioners Lisa Naito and Jeff Cogen disregarded the advice of the tax administrator, the assistant county attorney overseeing tax collections and the county's chief financial officer who pointed out that Rask received mail at his Portland home, listed it as his residence on his driver's license and continued to vote in Multnomah County, which is a felony for nonresidents.
Read more and discuss: Jeff in the news - tax cases
» September 9, 2008 - 0 comments - Karol's Blog, News, Top Stories
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
Make This A Carefree Weekend By Supporting Safe And Sober Driving
Police will be out in full force August 15 to Labor Day cracking down on drunk drivers. The message is simple: No matter what you drive—a passenger car, pickup, sport utility vehicle or motorcycle—if you are caught driving impaired, you will be arrested. No exceptions. No excuses. Law enforcement will be out in force conducting sobriety checkpoints, saturation patrols and using undercover officers to get more drunk drivers off the road—and save lives that might otherwise be lost.
Read more and discuss: Make This A Carefree Weekend By Supporting Safe And Sober Driving
» August 29, 2008 - 0 comments - Top Stories
Martin Luther King Jr., "I have a dream" 45 years later
Discuss: Martin Luther King Jr., "I have a dream" 45 years later
» August 28, 2008 - 0 comments - Top Stories
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
New CDC report rates local health risks
From the Health Deptartment:
Multnomah County fares better than the nation in many categories, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) 2007 SMART (Selected Metropolitan/Micropolitan Area Risk Trends) report. The SMART report offers 2007 data on adult health risk behaviors and preventive health practices related to chronic disease and injury.
The Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS), a state-based system of health surveys conducted by CDC, collects data from all 50 states and U.S. territories on health-related behaviors. According to the CDC, more than 350,000 adults are interviewed each year, making the BRFSS the largest telephone health survey in the world.
Read more and discuss: New CDC report rates local health risks
» August 25, 2008 - 0 comments - Human Services, Karol's Blog, Top Stories
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
Advice about homeowning or foreclosure
Portland Metropolitan Association of Realtors has a new website to offer a comprehensive homeownership resource to home buyers and homeowners facing possible foreclosure.
The site includes tips for home buyers, information about real estate agents, loan programs and Housing and Urban Development Approved Counseling Agencies. Check it out!
Discuss: Advice about homeowning or foreclosure
» August 18, 2008 - 0 comments - Top Stories
9th Circut protects domestic partnerships
Multnomah County domestic partners can breathe a little easier today and we are thrilled!