North Clackamas County Chamber of Commerce

Leadership class seeks your help with community project

April 14th, 2013

Leadership Clackamas County is an adult leadership and development  program put on by the Chamber to  engage experienced and emerging business and
community leaders to expand  their knowledge and skills to better our
community’s economic and  cultural future. This year’s class is proud to
team up with the Wichita  Center for Family & Community to enhance
the playground at the Center bettering the environment for developing
healthier and happier children and families in the surrounding area.

The Wichita Center was originally the Wichita School, educating and providing guidance to generations of children. After 100 years of service the North Clackamas Schools envisioned turning the building into a center to support families and community. In 2009, the Wichita Center was established and since then has become a thriving station for families seeking support. Some of the programs offered at the building include:

·         Family Support Center – resources for homeless students & families facing hard times

·         Backpack Buddies – weekend nutrition program for elementary kids

·         Dental Health Solutions – dental hygiene, screening and critical care for children without insurance or access to a DMD

·         Head Start – preschool for low-income children ages 3 & 4

·         Community Services – Facility use, child care, driver education and SafetyTown classes

Leadership Clackamas County is going to support and enhance the Community Services area of programs offered at the Wichita center by renovating the existing play structure and adding a picnic table to the grounds. The renovation of the existing structure will increase the area of total play structure on the grounds allowing for more children to exercise. The picnic table is a place for families to watch their children play and to have a healthy meal with beautiful surroundings of outdoors and life.

This is a wonderful opportunity to help our community and we CAN NOT do it without you! The Leadership Class will be working April 27^th - 28^th and May 4^th  - May 5^th  on the playground.

 We will be working Saturdays (27^th & 4^th) from 8am to 6pm and Sundays (28^th & 5^th) from 2pm to 6pm.

To donate time, materials or cash to help the Leadership Class complete their project, please contact Emily Spall at 503.833.5197.

Read more...

Posted in Uncategorized | Comments Off

Community planning organization extends invitation

October 23rd, 2012

North Clackamas Citizens Association CPO, a county-recognized community planning organization, will be holding a meeting on Wednesday, October 24, at 7:00pm at the Clackamas United Church of Christ, 15303 SE Webster Road, Milwaukie, OR (located on the west side of Webster Road, just north of Clackamas Road; northwesterly of Bilquist Elementary).

The Association will meet to discuss to conduct necessary business**, pending planning applications and the following:

1. Decision whether to pursue a merger with the Clackamas CPO;
2. Discussion of the Association’s western boundary (Oatfield Ridge area);
3. Update on the county’s Transportation System Plan Update; the Association will consider a list of priority projects to advocate this fall;
4. Clackamas County Clackamas Town Center Urban Renewal District, Capital Projects ;
5. Update on the Master Plan efforts for the North Clackamas Park and Recreation District;
6. McLoughlin Area Plan “next steps”; this meeting will be held on Wednesday, November 6th.

Residents, landowners or business and industrial interests located within the two CPO boundaries (generally south of Harmony Road and Sunnybrook Avenue and north of the Clackamas River, westerly of the Carver Junction) are considered members and especially invited to attend.  A detailed map of our area boundaries may be found at the county’s citizen involvement website: 

Clackamas CPO MAP:  http://web12.clackamas.us/alfresco/download/direct/workspace/SpacesStore/f88b45bf-e2f0-11e0-9d3e-cb8d3f7648f9/map_clack.gif

NCCA CPO MAP:http://web12.clackamas.us/alfresco/download/direct/workspace/SpacesStore/fc8d1eb5-e2f0-11e0-9d3e-cb8d3f7648f9/map_nclack.gif

** Topics for consideration at the North Clackamas Citizens Association (NCCA)meeting will include general business, pending land use/planning issues before the county/various public agencies, private development proposals, citizen concerns & relevant issues before the neighborhood.

For more information, contact NCCA President Cyndi Lewis-Wolfram  (503) 756-1966 or email to cyndilw52@gmail.com.  For Clackamas CPO information contact Barbara Kemper, Chair, (503) 655-2601 or email to barbkemper@yahoo.com.

Posted in Uncategorized | Comments Off

Secure your identity

October 15th, 2012

Posted in Uncategorized | Comments Off

Public invited to help set priorities for transportation, community and economic development improvements for Clackamas Regional Center

October 3rd, 2012

The Clackamas Regional Center Working Group, a committee of community and business representatives established by Clackamas County, is asking for public input on potential improvements for the Clackamas Regional Center area. Your Chamber has been part of this working group.

The public is invited to express their views:

·        In person, at an open house near the escalator to the food court on the lower level of Clackamas Town Center, Wednesday, Oct. 10, from 3-6 p.m.

·        Online, through a survey available at www.clackamas.us/transportation/crcworkinggroup.html through Saturday, Oct. 20

The Clackamas Regional Center (CRC), shown on the map, is a commercial / industrial / residential area in north Clackamas County, roughly bisected by I-205, with Johnson Creek Boulevard to the north, Lawnfield Road to the south and Clackamas Town Center roughly in the middle.  A significant portion of the area is in the Clackamas Town Center Urban Renewal District.

The CRC has grown dramatically since the urban renewal plan was adopted in 1980. Based on this plan, county urban renewal funds have been leveraged to help provide new, expanded and safer roadways; increase multi-modal travel options; support commercial and retail growth; enhance public safety and medical facilities and offer multiple housing options.

With limited funds remaining, and a number of projects remaining in the urban renewal plan, the working group is considering the following types of projects and programs:

·        New or improved streets and intersections

·        Improved multi-modal travel (walking, bicycling, transit)

·        Community use (e.g., plazas and parks)

·        Business development and redevelopment

For more information, contact senior project planner Dave Queener at 503-742-4322 or davidque@clackamas.us.

Posted in Uncategorized | Comments Off

California Pizza Kitchen introduces 5 “New Adventure” items

August 28th, 2012

Taste buds, prepare for adventure

Posted in Uncategorized | Comments Off

CCC named semifinalist for Freedom Award

April 26th, 2012

Clackamas Community College (CCC) is one of three Oregon employers named semifinalists for the 2012 Secretary of Defense Employer Support Award. The Freedom Award is the highest recognition given by the DoD to employers for exceptional support of their Guard and Reserve employees.

Nationally, 133 semifinalists were selected from among 3,236 nominees. In Oregon, Cayuse Technologies in Pendleton, and the Wal-Mart Store in Hermiston, were also named semifinalists.

The Employer Support for the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) will announce 2012 Freedom Award finalists in May after a review board comprised of military and civilian leaders selects the 30 most supportive employers from the semifinalists. The 15 award recipients will be announced early this summer and honored in Washington D.C. at a ceremony in September.

Under the leadership of President Joanne Truesdell, CCC has greatly increased service to veterans over the past few years including job training opportunities, credit for prior learning, dedicated counselors to work with veterans, a veterans’ club and financial aid support. The CCC Foundation established the Military Families Scholarship Endowment, providing scholarship support to the families of service members and veterans.

The Oregon ESGR has honored CCC with both the My Boss is a Patriot Award and the Pro Patria Award. CCC was a semifinalist for the Freedom Award last year.

“It is an honor to be nominated for the Freedom Award,” said Truesdell. “CCC is committed to helping those who have served our country achieve continued success.”

For more information, please contact Janet Paulson at 503-594-3162.

n

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

Attorney General named college President

April 24th, 2012

Reed College has announced that the selection of Oregon’s Attorney General, John Kroger, as their next President.

Attorney General Kroger, who was not seeking reelection, said, “I’m very excited about this opportunity to help lead this great Oregon college. Because I will need to be on campus for the beginning of the fall semester, I will be stepping down later this summer as Attorney General. I have informed the Governor of my plans and will work with him to ensure a smooth transition for my successor. It has been a great honor to serve as Oregon’s Attorney General.”

The former United States Marine received his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Philosophy from Yale University and graduated with honors from Harvard Law School. Prior to his election as Attorney General, was a law professor at Lewis & Clark Law School in Portland.

Under Kroger’s leadership the past term several new initiatives have been launched to prosecute environmental crimes, protect civil rights and combat mortgage fraud. In other agency work over the past three and a half years the AG’s office has taken legal action against banks, pharmaceutical companies and big tobacco, recovering over $150 million for Oregon.

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

Boring Station Trailhead Park Grand Opening

April 23rd, 2012

A flurry of activities on May 19^th will celebrate the grand opening of a several years’ project in Boring. Beginning at 11 am the public is invited to ceremonies to inaugurate the Boring Station Trailhead Park in the middle of downtown Boring.

Activities include a flag raising ceremony, color guard pipe and drum, unveiling of the paving stones in the park courtyard and cake cutting and refreshments. The park is the result of efforts of many, including the Chamber through tourism funding over the years. In addition to the Boring community members and tourism funding, others who were instrumental in the development of the site include Oregon State Parks, Metro and the Oregon Department of Transportation.

Join in the fun and festivities from 11 am to 12 noon on Saturday, May 19 to celebrate a great community-wide effort.

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

Columbia State Bank welcomes Gary Abramson as residential loan officer

April 23rd, 2012

Columbia State Bank announces Gary Abramson as residential loan officer of Portland’s Gateway branch.  In his new position, Gary will be working as a trusted advisor to all bank customers seeking mortgage loan information in the Western Oregon and Southwest Washington regions.

“Gary has created a reputation for himself in the banking community through his integrity and commitment to his clients,” said Barbara Kaye, SVP and Regional Manager. “His knowledge and passion for providing outstanding customer service make him an exceptional addition to the team.”

With 11 years of banking experience, Gary has a strong background in lending. He enjoys working with first time home buyers by educating and involving them through the entire home loan process.  Gary previously managed the mortgage department at Town Center Bank.

Gary has been involved with the Chamber and Rotary International and currently volunteers as a youth sports coach.  He proudly led his girls fast pitch softball team to the Oregon State Championships 12U-B in 2011.

About Columbia Bank

Headquartered in Tacoma, Washington, Columbia Banking System, Inc. is the holding Company of Columbia State Bank, a Washington state-chartered full-service commercial bank which was again awarded one of Seattle Business Magazine’s 100 Best Companies to Work For 2011 and was designated one of  Puget Sound Business Journal’s “Washington’s Best Workplaces 2011”.

Including the recent acquisitions of Bank of Whitman, Summit Bank and First Heritage Bank, Columbia Banking System has 102 banking offices, including 77 branches in Washington State and 25 branches in Oregon. Columbia Bank does business under the Bank of Astoria name in Astoria, Warrenton, Seaside, Cannon Beach, Manzanita and Tillamook in Oregon. More information about Columbia can be found on its website at www.columbiabank.com.

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

CCC students named to All-Oregon Academic Team

April 20th, 2012

Every year for the last 20 years, each of Oregon’s 17 community colleges have selected two outstanding students to be recognized for their academic achievements and community involvement. In recognition of their accomplishments, Clackamas Community College (CCC) students Blaine Gobler and Kelly Ragalie joined 36 other students for brunch on Thursday, April 12, in Salem for the All-Oregon Academic Team.

The Oregon Community College Association hosted the brunch honoring the 38 students, ranging in age from 19 to 55 and coming from all walks of life. Following the brunch, Gov. John Kitzhaber greeted the students, posing for a group photo on the steps of the Rotunda.

Gobler, 19, is an honor roll student and an officer in Phi Theta Kappa, the honor society for students at two-year colleges. He plans to transfer to the University of Oregon and study dentistry. Ragalie, 33, is a mother of four, who owns and operates a flooring company. She is a volunteer for Providence St. Vincent and the American Red Cross. She is an officer with Phi Theta Kappa and a scholarship recipient and maintains a 3.75 grade point average. She plans to transfer to Portland State University and work toward a career as a physician’s assistant.

For more information, please contact Janis Rosenlof at 503-594-3022.

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

Grant to provide vocational training, skill development and job readiness

April 20th, 2012

Exceed Enterprises has been selected to receive a $20,000 grant from Kaiser Permanente’s Community Benefit program to help pay for an instructor’s salary to launch our Work Assessment & Readiness Program that will provide vocational training, skill development and job readiness for people with disabilities.

Kaiser Permanente’s Community Benefit program contributes millions of dollars each year to support a range of programs, projects and organizations that contribute to individual and community health. In 2011, Kaiser Permanente Northwest contributed almost $120 million to communities in their service area.

With this grant support, Exceed will hire a full-time vocational instructor to lead a program aimed at developing the skills some of our workers need to effectively transition from facility-based employment to competitive employment in the broader community.

“We are excited to partner with Kaiser to create an entirely new pathway towards integrated employment for adults with developmental disabilities who have traditionally experienced significant barriers to obtaining employment,” says Philip Stuva, Exceed’s Director of Development.

The hiring of this instructor and the overall creation of this new program will be a valuable tool for Exceed as we strive to align our goal’s with the State’s Employment First initiative that will promote integrated, community-based employment for people with even the most severe disabilities.

Established in 1968, Exceed Enterprises is a nonprofit organization that provides vocational and personal development services for people with mental, emotional and physical disabilities. Exceed offers meaningful employment and personal development services to more than 150 adults and students. For more information, please visit www.exceedpdx.com or call 503.652.9036.

Kaiser Permanente Northwest is part of the national Kaiser Permanente network, one of America’s leading health care providers and nonprofit health plans. Kaiser Permanente Northwest serves about 480,000 members in northwestern Oregon and Southwest Washington. Through its dedication to care innovations, electronic medical records, clinical research, health education and community health, Kaiser Permanente is helping shape the future of health care in America. For more information, go to kp.org/newscenter.

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

April 21: Be money smart by shredding and recycling

April 16th, 2012

How do personal documents, identification cards and cell phones end up in the wrong hands? Identity thieves break into homes, offices, vehicles, mailboxes and dumpsters; while pickpockets physically lift items from individuals.
• Never store private documents in unsecured locations.
• Avoid carrying unneeded cards or saving compromising details on electronic devices.
• Shred unnecessary, expired private documents, such as old: credit card applications, financial statements, bills, insurance paperwork, health forms and junk mail.

To help prevent identity theft and secure data during Money Smart Week—April 21 to 28—shred documents and recycle old cell phones at Better Business Bureau’s free Secure Your ID Day: Oregon.bbb.org/secure-your-id.

On Saturday, April 21, join BBB and ClearPoint Credit Counseling Solutions at US Bank of Oregon at 4505 SW Hall Blvd. in Beaverton from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., as items are shred on-the-spot by Shred-it for free. Drive up to drop off up to three bags or boxes of unwanted documents per person; no cardboard or three-ring binders. Also, donate old cell phones to Verizon’s HopeLine, supporting victims of domestic abuse.

For event information, contact BBB serving Alaska, Oregon and Western Washington at 503-212-3022 or events@thebbb.org.

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

Year round visibility opportunity now open

April 16th, 2012

Your business is invited to assist in creating a strong local economy and representing business before government as a Vision Sponsor for 2012-13.

Thanks to several members this past year, the Chamber has been able to have a very active presence in a number of public policy areas this past year. Vision Sponsors have given us the ability to sponsor candidate events, host members to the Oregon State Chamber Day at the Capitol, hold a successful candidate training workshop, advocate for business interests with TriMet, Metro, City of Milwaukie, State of Oregon and other jurisdictions.

Additionally we have kept a strong presence at Metro’s MPAC, Clackamas County Business Alliance, Clackamas County Economic Development Commission the county’s Transportation System Plan update and Bike-Ped update and several others. We have worked with the unincorporated urban area in many ways, and also with our four cities on issues of interest to business.

Vice President, External Affairs, Wilda Parks, is now taking reservations for 2012-13 Vision Sponsors to carry out a similar platform for the upcoming organizational year. Members with interest in creating a strong local economy through representation, advocacy and access may become a 2012-13 Vision Sponsor in one of two levels.

In the next few months, prior to the general election in November, our goal is to host several candidate and ballot measure events. Next spring, during the full legislative session, we will sponsor member attendance for the Oregon Chamber Day at the Capitol, with an afternoon of visits to our state Senators and Representatives. There will be other activities, including the monthly Public Policy Team meetings, which will be sponsored by our Vision Sponsors.

Your Chamber is pleased to present this once a year opportunity for business to support this area of program as we strive for a strong local economy.  As a Vision Sponsor you can be part of a collective business effort to maintain a program that includes economic development, advocating for business before government, public policy, community outreach, legislative programs and information, candidate training and, when needed, lobbying at local, regional, state and federal levels for good business practices.

There are two levels to this sponsorship, each stays in place for the fiscal year, July 1 2012 to June 30 2013. Each level, $500 and $1,000 offers benefits to you and to your business. Each level assists the Chamber in completing its policy program for the benefit of the area.

An overview and the listing of all benefits is available by contacting Parks at the chamber (503-654-7777, or wilda@yourchamber.com) or the complete details of the program are on the chamber website at http://yourchamber.com/public-policy/vision-sponsor/ .

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

Hello world!

April 15th, 2012

Welcome to WordPress. This is your first post. Edit or delete it, then start blogging!

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

Hungry for Sport? Fishing for a Good Cause? You've seen it on TV! You've heard about it on the radio! Now experience it in person!

April 14th, 2012

12:01 April 28th marks the opening of fishing season and the 49th annual Sportsman’s Breakfast!!  Sandy Fire District continues to celebrate this event in an unusual but “tasteful” way!!

Since 1963 Sandy’s Main Fire Station has transformed its engine bay into a 19 hour, feasting paradise.  Sandy Volunteer Firefighters will have been serving food for 7 hours by the time fishing season officially begins.

This is a fantastic traditional Fire House style spread with pancakes, ham, and eggs prepared just about any way you want them.  “Everyone knows firefighters love to eat great food, we have a reputation for being terrific cooks too!” said, Firefighter Glenn Yeager “This also allows us to reach out to our community in a meaningful way.  All proceeds from The Breakfast go back to our citizens in the form of scholarships for local high school students and Christmas Baskets to families in need”.

What:
All-You-Can-Eat Sportsman’s Breakfast

How Much:
$5 Adults / $4 Children/Seniors, Cash and Checks only please

When:
FRIDAY – April 27th, 5:00 pm until 12:00 pm on Saturday, April 28th

Where:
Sandy Fire Main Station, 17460 Bruns Ave, Just off of Hwy 26

A LOT OF GREAT STUFF GOING ON AT THE FIREHOUSE!!

RAFFLE TICKETS
Raffle Tickets will be available prior to the breakfast as well as day of.  You can purchase these tickets for only $1.00 each, prior to the breakfast by visiting the fire station or finding any Sandy Firefighter.

Local businesses pitch in to make this one of the best raffles around!  TOO MANY ITEMS TO LIST, however, all will be on display at the breakfast.  These raffle tickets offer you not only a chance to win prizes, but an opportunity to support your community as well.

FREE PHOTOS WITH THE FIRE ENGINE
On Saturday, April 28th from 8am to noon you are invited to get your photo taken dressed up as a firefighter beside our antique fire engine. Your free photo is printed on the spot and comes with a magnetic frame so you can put it on your refrigerator for the whole family to admire!  Our very own professional photographers make the process super FUN and help arrange children and/or entire families or just parents and grandparents to create a great looking photo.

COLLECTOR T-SHIRTS FOR SALE
These collectable shirts are highly sought after with a unique design that changes every year.  This year’s design is another must have!  $10 for youth; $12 for adult S-XL; $14 for adult XXL; $16 for adult XXXL

LIFE SAVING HELMETS
Once you enter Sandy Fire District’s Main station you will be greeted with the sounds and smells of a wonderful family style meal and a host of safety booths and information, you can even purchase a properly fitted helmet (Bike $7, Skate/All Sport $12 or Ski $25)! Any opportunity to help save lives and you can be sure Sandy Fire will take advantage of it.

The only ‘catch’ is —the head that the helmet is for MUST be present so that firefighters can PROPERLY fit it! NO exceptions.

The helmet booth will be operating from 5-8 p.m. on Friday and again from 8 a.m. — 12 noon on Saturday.  It can take a bit of time to properly fit a helmet, so set some aside during your stay at the station and SAVE A LIFE !

Feel free to contact 503-668-8093 and ask for Margaret or email M.Grassl@sandyfire.org with any questions.  You can also visit:  OHSU’s – Think First (Brain and Spinal Cord Injury Prevention) Website for a brochure on how to properly measure (and fit) a helmet.    http://www.ohsu.edu/xd/outreach/programs/thinkfirst/helmets/upload/Helmet-Fitting-Instructions.pdf

For Additional Information about the Breakfast or the Raffle, Contact:
Dave Holmes at 503-668-8093

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

Free mental health education seminars offered in May

April 14th, 2012

In celebration of Mental Health Awareness Month, the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) of Clackamas County is hosting a five-part mental health education seminar series, “From Discovery-to-Recovery” at Clackamas Community College.

“From Discover-to-Recovery” seminars will be offered on five Wednesday evenings, from May 2 – May 30. Each session run from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. in the McLoughlin Auditorium at CCC’s Oregon City Campus. The seminars are open to the public, and there is no cost to attend.

Here is the series line-up:

• May 2: Discovery: Understanding Mental Illness
• May 9: Treatment: What Options Are Available
• May 16: Coping: Caring for Someone Living with a Serious Mental Illness
• May 23: Recovery: Where do we go from here?
• May 30: NAMI: In Our Own Voice

RSVPs for the sessions are welcome, but not required. For more information, please call NAMI of Clackamas County at 503-344-5050 or visit nami.clackamas@gmail.com .

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

Dave’s Killer Bread founder shares his story at CCC

April 14th, 2012

Dave Dahl, president and cofounder of the famous line of organic, whole grain breads, Dave’s Killer Bread, will speak at Clackamas Community College (CCC) on Tuesday, May 1, from noon to 1 p.m. in the Gregory Forum. Dahl will share his inspirational story as a formerly incarcerated ex-drug dealer and addict turned whole grain bread innovator with students and staff at the college, as well as community members.

Dahl practices his vision of “making the world a better place, one loaf of bread at a time,” by speaking to and inspiring a variety of audiences including at-risk youth, prisoners, and business leaders. He believes the only way to keep growing is to share the life-changing lessons he has learned.

“At Dave’s Killer Bread, we strive to make a meaningful impact on the communities we serve. Sharing my story with people who find value and inspiration in it is what inspires me,” said Dahl.

Dahl’s visit to CCC is sponsored by the college and the Small Business Development Center. The event includes free lunch for attendees, with bread provided by Dave’s Killer Bread. Preregistration is requested and may be made at http://daveskillerbreadatccc.eventbrite.com.

Dave’s Killer Bread bakes and distributes organic, whole grain bread products throughout the Western United States at leading grocery stores and local markets. In 2011, the company was ranked by Inc. Magazine as one of the “Fastest Growing Companies in the U.S.,” received both the “Ethics in Business Award” by The Portland Rotary Club, Portland Business Journal, and Willamette University; and the “2011 Local Hero Award” by Edible Portland Magazine in the Food Artisan category. To learn more about Dave’s Killer Bread and Dave’s inspiring story visit www.daveskillerbread.com.

For information about Dahl’s visit to CCC, please contact Janet Paulson at 503-594-3162.

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

Clackamas Repertory Theatre: A recovery indicator?

April 14th, 2012

While it might be a stretch to use any theater company as a measure of economic well-being, some theater stages are seeing renewed interest and bigger audiences. Clackamas Repertory Theatre is one of them.

“We’re seeing upticks in attendance and season ticket purchases that we haven’t seen before,” said Cynthia Smith-English, managing director for the CRT. “In fact, we’re enjoying significant gains this year.”

Since the CRT started in 2005, it has experienced a growth rate of about 10 percent a year.  But this year, season ticket sales are up 15 percent. It appears there’s considerable interest the CRT’s 2012 season that begins in June. The company’s first reading of the year in March doubled attendance over any previous play reading. The CRT fundraiser in February, featuring “The Importance of Being Earnest,” was sold out, and individual donations are up as well.

“Whether it’s a sign that people are more comfortable spending some money and a night out at a play or they appreciate the quality of our productions, we’ll take it. We do know we’re seeing more regular attendees, which is an especially good indication that what we’re doing is resonating with our audiences,” Smith-English said.

The CRT’s 2012 season features Neil Simon’s “The Odd Couple,” opening June 29. The musical “Cabaret,” opens Aug. 4, followed by Deborah Zoe Laufer’s comedy “End Days,” opening Sept. 21. All performances take place in the Osterman Theatre in the Niemeyer Center for the Communication Arts.

For more information on the Clackamas Repertory Theatre visit: www.clackamasrep.org.

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

Poetry, songwriting, fiction and more at ‘COMPOSE’ Creative Writing Conference

April 14th, 2012

Professional writers including Oregon’s poet laureate Paulann Petersen will share their wisdom at the “COMPOSE” Creative Writing Conference, on Saturday, May 15. The conference, sponsored by the Clackamas Community College English Department, is free and includes lunch. It’s open to all writers of all genres and all levels.

The conference takes place in the Gregory Forum. Registration begins at 9 a.m., and sessions begin at 10 a.m. The complete schedule follows:

10-11:30 a.m. writing workshops

• Writing for Veterans, Jeff McAlpine & Marlene Broemer, CCC English faculty
• Anyone Can Write a Song, songwriting with Julie Vitells and Amanda Spring from “What Hearts” band
• Breaking and Entering: Getting In When the Answer is Always No (From book to film). Monica Drake, author of “Clown Girl”
• Writing Fiction, Trevor Dodge, CCC English faculty

12-1:30 Lunch, with Paulann Peterson, poet, teacher and former Stegner Fellow at Stanford University, on “Writing and Hierarchy: the Trouble with Good, Better, Best.”

1:30-3 p.m. writing workshops

• Preparing Manuscripts for Publication, Ryan Davis, English faculty and editor of CLR, Clackamas Literary Review
• What’s Happening in the Publishing World, Jeff Baker, book editor, The Oregonian
• Poetry of Place, Michele Glazer, poet and associate professor at Portland State University
• How to Write the Weird, Matt Schumacher, poetry editor of Phantom Drift and CCC English faculty
• With Words from the Mouth of a Stranger, Paulann Petersen, Oregon’s poet laureate

3-4:30 p.m. writing workshops

• Reading, Writing, & Craft CLR authors and Ryan Davis, CLR editor
• Author Marketing, CCC alum Therese Patrick and Morgan Kennedy
• Memoir and Truthiness: Breaking Down Life, Lydia Yuknavitch, author of “The Chronology of Water,” finalist for the Oregon Book Award

For more information visit http://ccccreativewritingconference.wordpress.com. To register, go to http://ccccreativewritingconference.eventbrite.com.

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

Sculpture garden will honor local arts advocate Chuck Clemans

April 14th, 2012

Chuck Clemans had a deep commitment to supporting the arts and encouraging emerging artists. A new sculpture garden at Clackamas Community College will honor Clemans’ memory and his commitment to the arts.

Clemans, a longtime Clackamas Community College board member and citizen activist, died in a car accident in December. His wife, Nancy Hungerford, is making a donation from the couple’s personal collection of outdoor sculpture to the college.

A reception to introduce the vision for the Chuck Clemans Memorial Sculpture Garden will be held on Thursday, May 3, from 3:30 to 5 p.m. at the CCC Art Center. People who are interested in participating in creating the sculpture garden in Clemans’ memory are welcome to the reception.

For more information, contact Karen Martini, director of the CCC Foundation at 503-594-3132.

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

Chris Groener appointed to CCC Board of Education

April 14th, 2012

The Clackamas Community College (CCC) Board of Education appointed Chris Groener to represent zone 4. The position has been vacant since longtime board member Chuck Clemans died in a car accident in December.

“Last week, the Clackamas Community College Board Vacancy Subcommittee had the privilege of interviewing two wonderful applicants to represent Zone 4,” said board chairwoman Jane Reid. “Both have attended community colleges, are strong and passionate community leaders, and are well qualified for the position. This was not an easy decision.”

Groener attended CCC where his father Ralph Groener served on the board in the 1970s. He transferred to Portland State University and was president of Associated Students and served on both the Oregon Student Foundation and the PSU Alumni Board of Directors. He currently serves on the Oregon City Planning Commission and works as a union representative for UFCW Local 555. He has a range of legislative experiences and a strong grasp of public policy.

The three-person subcommittee who interviewed the candidates valued Groener’s experience with student leadership and the perspective he will bring to the board, Reid said.

Jo Crenshaw, who also applied for the position, is an area businesswoman with strong ties to the college. She serves on the CCC Foundation Board of Directors and was past president and a member of the executive committee.

Groener’s appointment to the board continues through June 30, 2013, following the next board election. At that time he may run for election for the position to fulfill the remainder of the unexpired term, ending in 2015.

For more information, please call Shelly Parini at 503-594-3015.

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

Art Mystery 2012: Take a clue from Twitter #LostArt

April 14th, 2012

The Outdoor Sculpture Exposition opened at Clackamas Community College (CCC) recently. And just like the expo in 2007, mysteriously one of the sculptures has gone missing. It’s an Art Mystery 2012 style.

The Art Mystery holds a big prize for whoever finds the missing sculpture: a full term’s tuition at Clackamas Community College and a student-ready laptop computer. The Art Mystery 2012 has a social media component: Clues will be released on the college Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/clackamascommcollege. Additional clues will be offered to those who follow CCC on Twitter @ClackCollege and the hash tag #lostart.

The 2012 Outdoor Sculpture Exposition opened at CCC’s Oregon City campus on April 9. Sculptures from 30 Northwest sculptors are displayed around the campus.

Complete rules are available on the CCC Facebook page. The Art Mystery treasure hunt includes three polished metal medallions and a grand prize medallion, which is located within 20 feet of the missing sculpture. All medallions and the missing sculpture are on public property on the CCC campus. They are not buried, and no structure needs to be disturbed or climbed to find them.

Winners will be announced on Thursday, May 24, at the reception for the artists taking part in the Outdoor Sculpture Expo, which takes place from 3 to 6:30 p.m. in the campus commons outside the Community Center.

CCC staff, contest sponsors and their families are not eligible to participate in the community and student contest. The grand prize is transferable. If the winner wants to give it away to a worthy family member or friend, that’s OK.

For more information, contact Bill Briare at 503-594-3110.

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

BOLI reminds Oregon businesses to employ minors lawfully

April 13th, 2012

Recent ruling in case of band saw injury highlights requirements, prohibited work

Oregon Labor and Industries Commissioner Brad Avakian is using a recent contested case decision to remind employers that using workers under age 18 means complying with state child labor requirements, which are enforced by the Bureau of Labor and Industries (BOLI).  Avakian, who as BOLI Commissioner issues the final order in contested civil rights and wage and hour law cases, said the recent decision upholding a fine against Schultz Manufacturing, a motocross parts manufacturer in Oregon City, perfectly illustrates why employers should turn to BOLI for guidance first.

“Here, a kid got hurt using a band saw and child labor law says explicitly that he shouldn’t have been using that saw,” Avakian said.  “It’s very fortunate that he was not more seriously injured, and it’s a perfect example of why employers should consult with BOLI before bringing minors in to work.”

Avakian pointed to BOLI’s Technical Assistance for Employers Program (TA), whose role is educating employers about the requirements of civil rights and employment laws in Oregon.  Use of child labor is especially regulated, with employers required to obtain a certificate to employ minors before bringing a young person in to work.  The application process allows BOLI staff to screen for working conditions that may violate state or federal law, such as the use of power-driven machinery by minors which is strictly prohibited by law.

“This injury and the fine against the employer were 100% avoidable,” Avakian noted.  “The Wage and Hour Division and BOLI’s employer assistance staff are available to answer questions and help make Oregon businesses successful, but we can’t help if the employer doesn’t call or email us.”

BOLI TA offers a convenient FAQ on child labor and is currently developing a handbook on child labor specifically, which will complement the current 2012 Wage and Hour Laws Handbook and ensure that Oregon employers understand the limitations on minors in the workplace.  Employers with specific questions can also consult TA by phone (971-673-0824) or email (bolita.ta@state.or.us) for more information about complying with child labor law and other wage and hour requirements.

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

“Play Ball!” may be heard in Milwaukie

April 10th, 2012

A citizen’s task force has met several times over the past weeks to discuss all aspects of bringing a Single A baseball team to the city. Their final meeting, set for April 17, will include their decision to whether to forward a recommendation to City Council to pursue a stadium build and bringing a team to the area.

The thirteen member task force, with facilitator Alice Norris, former Mayor of Oregon City, has reviewed the economic feasibility studies, discussed other non-baseball events at the proposed park and reviewed and then selected a preferred placement of the park structures. In a recent meeting they reviewed a preliminary economic impact analysis, and continued work on a facility “good neighbor agreement”.

The “good neighbor agreement” will be the focus of their last meeting on April 19. Task force member Wilda Parks, VP of External Affairs for the Chamber, said the GNA is extremely important. “This document outlines how the Park will be used and how that might impact the neighborhoods and surrounding industrial areas,” she said. “The goal of the agreement is finding that right place for the community as well as for the team and the park management.”

Consultants estimate that 150 new jobs could be developed through the construction and operation of the stadium, alongside new business development that would likely occur in the area and increased business in the current Milwaukie retail areas.

The meeting on the 19^th will also provide time for preparation of the presentation to City Council at their May meeting. This is phase two of vetting the project, and if the task force and Council agree to continue to move it forward it will enter the phase of funding mechanisms and team recruitment.

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

Schrader on Commission would be good for business

April 10th, 2012

A poll taken in late March showed Martha Schrader with a clear lead over her two opponents in the race for Clackamas County Commission, Position 3.

“In the race for Clackamas County Commissioner, Martha Schrader has a commanding lead, garnering 40% of the vote, while her nearest opponent stands at just 11%,” interpreted pollster Michael Bocian.

GBA Strategies, a reputable, national firm, conducted the poll between March 25-27^th. The poll of likely primary voters from all over Clackamas County asked, “If the election was held today…for whom would you vote for?” The poll showed Martha with 40% of the vote, Jim Knapp with 11% and Jeff Caton trailing with 7% of the vote.  42% were undecided.

If Schrader tops 50% in May, she will win her seat in the primary. Your Chamber has endorsed Schrader based on her past work with the county, knowledge of issues, her business agenda and the ability to assist in the transitions that will occur within the county commission.

Martha Schrader has lived in the county for over 30 years. She raised five children here and was a farmer and small business owner, a teacher, a former County Commissioner, and served as State Senator.  Currently she chairs a task force working to help families of veterans.

She is running on a platform of listening, transparency, and accountability, and wants to help the community work together to achieve results that benefit the whole county. Her priorities include working with businesses to create jobs and focus on workforce development, smart infrastructure maintenance and planning, and protecting vital services, especially for our military families.

We encourage a vote for Schrader in the primary for county commission.

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

Chamber represented at Metro advisory group

April 9th, 2012

Wilda Parks, Your Chamber’s Vice President of External Affairs, was thanked for prior service and reappointed to a new term as the Clackamas County Citizen Representative to Metro’s Policy Advisory Council (MPAC).

MPAC advises the Metro Council on the amendment or adoption of the Regional Framework Plan including regional transportation, management of the urban growth boundary, protection of lands outside the urban growth boundary for natural resource, future urban or other uses, planning responsibilities required by state law, other growth management and land use planning matters determined by the Metro Council to be of metropolitan concern which will benefit from regional planning.

Parks, former CEO of the chamber, was originally appointed to represent the citizens of the county by Metro President David Bragdon in 2004. MPAC is composed of 21 voting members representing cities, counties, special districts, and the public and six non-voting members including a representative from the Oregon Department of Land Conservation and Development, Port of Portland, cities in Clackamas County outside the urban growth boundary, cities in Washington County outside the UGB, the City of Vancouver, Washington, and Clark County, Washington. In addition, three Metro Councilors participate as non-voting liaisons. Citizen representatives are appointed by the Metro Council President and Council.

In his appointment of Parks to a new two year term Metro President Tom Hughes noted he had asked the elected officials of the county for their input, and all recommended reappointing Parks. In her MPAC role she shares information with chambers in the county, the North Clackamas Chamber’s public policy team, and with those on other advisory teams and councils of which she is part. Alternate for Parks is Oak Grove resident Ed Gronke.

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

Chamber protects jobs in joint effort with city

April 9th, 2012

Considerations of cuts in TriMet routes in the Happy Valley area led the chamber to join forces with the City of Happy Valley, New Seasons Market and the Happy Valley Business Alliance to retain Route 155.

TriMet, in their reduction plans, had proposed eliminating 155 from their service area.  Over the past few years others routes in the area have been reduced or eliminated, causing hardships for the businesses and citizens alike.

The communication with TriMet was successful, and TriMet has informed the City that this line will not be reduced as part of the transit company’s overall reduction program.

A number of employees of businesses, especially at the Happy Valley Town Center, depend on transit to get them to and from work timely. The service reduction would have greatly affected New Seasons Market. With additional growth in the Happy Valley area, both in businesses and residential, the need for supportive transit systems becomes even more acute.

The Chamber joined the partnership as part of its goals of strengthening the local economy and advocating for business.

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

Clackamas Community College (CCC) May 2012 calendar of events

April 9th, 2012

April 30 – May 3

International Week Celebration

The CCC Foreign Language Department and language clubs host this annual celebration in cooperation with the ESL and Counseling and Advising departments. Enjoy music dance, art, cultural displays and international food from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. daily. For more information call 503-594-3245 or 503-594-3403.

May 1

Dave’s Killer Bread Story

CCC and the Small Business Development Center present “Dave’s Killer Bread Story” on Tuesday, May 1, from noon to 1 p.m. in CCC’s Gregory Forum. Dave Dahl, president and co-founder, Dave’s Killer Bread, shares the inspirational story of after serving 15 years in prison, he returned to work at his family’s bakery and developed new recipes, including the popular Dave’s Killer Bread. RSVP online at http://daveskillerbreadatCCC.eventbrite.com .

May 2, 9, 16, 23, 30

Chrysalis: Women Writers

Local author Pat Lichen guides women writers of all levels through discussions of their work. Chrysalis meets from noon to 2 p.m. in the Literary Arts Center, room 220 in Rook Hall. For information, call 503-594-3254.

May 24-June 3

CCC Theatre Production: The Beaux’ Stratagem

A comedy by George Farquhar, adapted by Thornton Wilder and Ken Ludwig. Directed by David Smith-English. Shows are Thursday through Saturday at 7:30 p.m., with Sunday matinees at 2:30 p.m. in the Osterman Theatre, Niemeyer Center. To purchase tickets online, visit www.theatreCCC.org or call Kelly at 503-594-3153.

May 24

Artists Reception for Outdoor Sculpture Exposition

Sculptures from 30 Northwest sculptors are on display during the Outdoor Sculpture Exposition at CCC, running from April 9 through June 15. An artists’ reception featuring the Tuboh Butoh/Sheri Brown Dance Company will be held on Thursday, May 24, from 3 to 6:30 p.m. in the college commons outside the Community Center. For more information, please contact Rick True at 503-594-3038 or rtrue@clackamas.edu .

May 29-31

Spring Term Student Performance Showcase

Enjoy student directed one-act plays, stand-up comedy and comedy improv. Performances are Tuesday through Thursday from noon to 1 p.m. with an additional performance on May 30 at 7:30 p.m. No cost to attend. For information call Kelly White at 503-594-3153 or visit www.TheatreCC.org.

May 28

Memorial Day Holiday

The college will be closed for the Memorial Day holiday.

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

CCC strives to improve students’ first year experience

April 9th, 2012

Educators know that the first year of college can be a “make-or-break” year for students. Improving processes and removing barriers to a successful first year is a priority at Clackamas Community College (CCC) this year.

Through the help of a grant from the John N. Gardner Institute for Excellence in Undergraduate Education, nearly 80 CCC staff, faculty and students, have been carefully reviewing all aspects of the new student experience. The work of the nine different committees will be shared with the campus and the community in an open house on Thursday, April 19, in the Fireside Room of the CCC Community Center.

Each of the nine committees reviewed dimensions of the new student experience including organization, learning, campus culture, diversity and transitions. More than 340 instructors and staff and 779 students participated in a survey last fall to gather impressions about policies, programs and services related to the first year of college. The survey results were one source of information for the committee work, which also relied on staff and student knowledge, college documents and reports.

The Gardner Institute for Excellence in Undergraduate Education selected CCC as one of several colleges and universities to participate in the year-long project, Foundations of Excellence®, last summer. The Foundations of Excellence project is designed to help campuses evaluate and improve the overall experience of first year students. Once CCC submits a final report on the work at the campus, Foundations of Excellence will issue specific recommendations to CCC. These recommendations will lead to changes in the current CCC practices for its first-year students.

“Paying attention to the first year for our students is paramount to their success. If a student has a solid foundation, they will be much more likely to persist to their educational goal,” said Phillip King, dean of the Academic Foundations and Connections division at CCC. “We are excited about the possibilities that this process will bring to the college and how it will contribute to our students’ success.”

For more information, please contact Phillip King, dean of Academic Foundations and Connections at 503-594-3430 or phillipk@clackamas.edu.

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

Schrader announces Small Business Administration disaster assistance for Oregon residents and businesses

April 6th, 2012

Congressman Kurt Schrader (OR-05) today announced the Small Business Administration (SBA) is offering low-interest federal disaster loans to residents and business owners in Clackamas, Marion, Polk and other Oregon counties affected by the severe January storms.

As of April 3, 2012, SBA representatives are on hand at the Marion County Disaster Loan Outreach Center to issue loan applications, answer questions about SBA’s disaster loan program, explain the application process and help each individual complete their application.

Disaster loans up to $200,000 are available to homeowners to repair or replace damaged or destroyed real estate. Loans up to $40,000 are available for homeowners and renters to repair or replace destroyed personal property. Businesses of any size and private, nonprofit organizations are eligible to borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace damage or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory and other business assets.

SBA is also offering Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) for small businesses, small agriculture cooperatives, small businesses engaged in aquaculture and most private, nonprofit organizations of any size to help meet working capital needs caused by the disaster. EIDLs are available regardless of whether the business suffered any property damage.

For more information regarding the Outreach Center’s location and operating hours, disaster loan interest rates, disaster loan qualifications, application forms and filing deadlines, please see the attached U.S. Small Business Administration press release.

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

Exceed Enterprises holds Spring Food Drive for the North Clackamas Family Support Center’s food pantry

April 6th, 2012

Exceed Enterprises is teaming up with the North Clackamas Family Support Center for a Spring Food Drive from April 9 through April 20 to combat the state’s drastic hunger problem (nearly 30 percent of the state’s youth aren’t sure where their next meal is coming from).

Collection bins will be distributed throughout the Milwaukie area and Exceed’s staff and the people with disabilities that we serve will collect and package food for the Center. The pantry provides food for nearly 1,000 students a year.

“This is a great opportunity for our people with disabilities to get out and integrate with community members and contribute to society,” says Shanna Moro, Exceed’s Community Integration Specialist, who is leading the Spring Food Drive. “Everyone is extremely excited to see how much food we can collect for the food pantry.”

“We are very excited for this upcoming food drive,” says Kristin Kinnie, Site Coordinator/Homeless Liaison for the North Clackamas Family Support Center. “We recently transformed our food pantry into a shopping-style food pantry, and this extra food will help ensure all the families who come through our doors receive the food they need!”

Established in 1968, Exceed Enterprises is a nonprofit organization that provides vocational and personal development services for people with mental, emotional and physical disabilities. Exceed’s dedicated employees offer meaningful employment and social services to more than 150 adults and students. For more information, please visit www.exceedpdx.com or call 503.652.9036.

The Family Support Center serves over 2,000 individuals each year in the North Clackamas School District with food, clothing, school supplies and hygiene products, to name a few. The Family Support Center is housed at the Wichita Center for Family and Community which has programs such as Head Start, WIC, Lunch Buddies, Backpack Buddies, Ready, Set Go!, and many more. For more information, please call 503.353.5663.

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

New CCC website improves student experience

April 6th, 2012

A new Clackamas Community College (CCC) website, set to launch Monday, April 23, will make it much easier for students and parents find information for making important educational decisions. CCC partnered with software designer Datatel in a pilot project to develop the college website, capitalizing on new technology that will integrate many student processes and streamline ongoing web maintenance.

CCC last redesigned its website more than five years ago, a lifetime in technology advances. At that time, the college relied on internal staff to develop and build the site.

“The expectations of users have really grown over five years. Students expect a dynamic, constantly changing site,” said webmaster Dean Walch. “If they don’t find what they are looking for quickly, they’re gone onto another site.”

Clackamas has been a Datatel client since 1994. Datatel, a computer software system used in higher education for registration, grading, billing, financial aid, payroll, accounting and records processing and other administrative functions, presented CCC with a national Partner in Excellence award in 2010. As CCC prepared for a web redesign, Datatel offered the college an opportunity to be part of a new web pilot project.

“It’s challenging to find people who understand the higher education market,” said Kim Carey, dean of Information Technology at CCC. “Datatel relies on best practices from college websites around the nation to develop site navigation.”

Through joining the pilot project, CCC saved thousands of dollars on the cost of the website redesign. Datatel refined its product and design through lessons learned while building the CCC site.

The new site is very much geared toward helping potential students and parents easily get the information they need to make decisions about college including registration, admission, programs and general information. The integration with Datatel will enhance many student operations, as well as college business functions like payroll and human resources.

The site also provides links for a range of users including alumni, business and community, veterans and potential donors to the CCC foundation.

“Creating a state-of the-art Web experience is critical for successful student recruitment and retention,” said John Shea, chief marketing officer for Datatel. “The latest enhancements to Datatel’s web content management system help institutions efficiently create a more compelling Web experience.”

For more information on the CCC web redesign, please contact Kim Carey at 503-594-0760.

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

Is financial literacy low?

April 3rd, 2012

During Financial Literacy Month in April, Better Business Bureau reminds consumers to keep track of their credit, debt and sensitive financial documents.

The National Foundation for Credit Counseling says that most Americans are not up-to-date on their credit standing. According to the NFCC’s 2011 Consumer Financial Literacy Survey Final Report:

• 65 percent have not obtained yearly credit reports within the last 12 months;
• 63 percent have not requested credit scores.

Of those that have not checked credit histories:

• 43 percent say they do not think it is useful or do not plan to apply for new credit;
• 22 percent do not believe they have any credit history to review.

The same study finds that millions of Americans carry credit card debt month-to-month and 28 percent admit to not paying bills on time; seven percent currently have debts in collection.

BBB serving Alaska, Oregon and Western Washington encourages consumers to utilize free resources:

Free Credit Reports: annualcreditreport.com
National Foundation for Credit Counseling: nfcc.org
Federal Reserve: federalreserve.gov
Financial Literacy and Education Commission: mymoney.gov
Consumer Financial Protection Bureau: consumerfinance.gov
FINRA Investor Education Foundation: saveandinvest.org
BBB’s Managing Credit – Made Simpler: bbb.org/credit-management
Be Money Wi$e: money-wise.org
Oregon Jump$tart: orjumpstart.org or jumpstart.org

BBB urges consumers to also take advantage of free events:

BBB’s Secure Your ID Day – Free Shredding: akorww.bbb.org/secure-your-id
Mid-Oregon Free Shredding: midoregon.com
Money Smart Week: moneysmartweek.org
Oregon Money Smart Week Luncheon: frbsf.org
Spend Smart Tips to Manage and Safeguard Your Money Forum: dfcs.oregon.gov

Find more credit tips at bbb.org.

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

New CEO to be hired

April 3rd, 2012

After much consideration I have made the difficult decision that I will not be renewing my contract with the Chamber at the end of our fiscal year, June 30, 2012.   As leaders yourselves, you understand the importance of evaluating the operations of an organization to identify what is important to move the goals and vision of an organization forward. That has been a major focus of my time this year.  With the help of the Board and our volunteer teams we have worked to continually improve the services and opportunities for our members.

As you expect, to strengthen business the Chamber must be engaged in the community in many different ways including being a proactive voice for business within the cities and county.  Whether it is bringing businesses together to find solutions for each other or advocating for you with our public and elected officials, many of the opportunities that lead to open doors begins with connecting outside the work day or formal meetings.  Informal, spontaneous connections through interactions at local events or unexpected occasions build familiarity and opportunity. What I have found is that despite working in this community for 17 years and being involved in a wide array of business and community functions, the Chamber benefits more with a leader that can both formally and informally participate within the community we serve. The Chamber is an ambassador for business and the community. Living outside of our service area has proven to be a significant challenge for me to participate in the functions where the Chamber needs to be involved while also living in Washington and balancing a personal life.  My decision is not a reflection on the Chamber. I fully believe in this organization and our mission. However, I also believe that it is a leader’s responsibility to do what is in the best interest of the organization.

Chair, Greg Chaimov and Incoming Chair David Russell will be leading the process to find the next qualified CEO. They are currently in the early steps of that process.  I will fulfill the terms of my contract as well as assist in any way that assures a smooth transition.

Thank you to those who have expressed their support and understanding of my decision.  I look forward to continuing our work until such time the new CEO has been hired.  Respectfully, Susan Lehr.

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

Your suggestions requested

April 3rd, 2012

Last month, your Board of Directors and other Chamber leaders met to discuss the path to greater success—greater success for the Chamber and for individual members through the Chamber.  There were many fine ideas suggested, but we’re sure we didn’t capture all the good ones.  The discussion focused on three areas:

1. How do we position the chamber as a regional entity of influence “the go to player”?  In other words, how do we convince political leaders to make decisions that are good for business?
2. How do we better communicate the value of the chamber for the purpose of developing and retaining members?
3. Are we providing networking opportunities that are relevant?  What is no longer relevant and what gaps exist that need to be addressed?

This is your Chamber.  All of the members of the Chamber have a stake in the answers to these questions.  If you have suggestions, please write to me at gregorychaimov@dwt.com.

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

Attorney General Kroger warns of tax preparer scams

April 2nd, 2012

With tax season upon us Attorney General John Kroger warns Oregonians to steer clear of scam artists looking to cash-in on tax season. The overwhelming majority of Oregon tax preparers provide honest and valuable services to their clients.  Nonetheless, whether it is in person, online or via email, there are con artists who market themselves as tax practitioners – but are only out to steal your money.

In the Latino community “notarios” have been known to offer tax preparation services and advice for which they are not licensed to provide. For more information about notario fraud please visit Avoiding Scams Against Immigrants / Cómo Evitar Las Estafas Contra Inmigrantes from the Federal Trade Commission.

Fake tax preparers employ a number of fraudulent tactics, including manipulating figures to claim inflated expenses, false deductions, unallowable credits or excessive exemptions. When the fraud is detected, however, it is the taxpayer – not the return preparer – who can suffer the consequences, which can include paying additional taxes, plus interest and other penalties.

Under both state and federal law, all paid tax practitioners must possess a Personal Tax Identification Number issued by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and enter it on the returns he or she prepares. This includes attorneys, CPAs, enrolled agents and unenrolled tax preparers. Anyone who prepares personal income tax returns for compensation in Oregon must also be licensed by the state Board of Tax Practitioners.

Attorney General Kroger offers the following advice to Oregonians seeking professional help this tax season:

• ALWAYS verify that your tax preparer is properly licensed by the Oregon Board of Tax Practitioners at: www.oregon.gov/otpb.

• Never give out personal information such as your Social Security number, bank account or mortgage receipt to a tax preparer unless you know they are licensed.

• Be wary of tax preparers who promise larger than normal refunds or a greater refund than their competitors.

• Don’t fall for any solicitations that imply credits or refunds are available without proof of eligibility.

• Do not sign your return unless it contains a valid Personal Tax Identification Number.

• Avoid preparers who base their fee on a percentage of your income or a percentage of your refund or who require you to split the refund to pay their preparation fee.

Tax evasion is a federal felony, punishable by five years imprisonment and a $250,000 fine. If you or someone you know has fallen victim to a tax preparer scam, contact the Oregon Department of Justice Consumer Hotline at 1-877-877-9392 or the Oregon Board of Tax Practitioners at 503-378-4034.

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

Peak Oil, Burgerville Business Model, on 2012 CCC Sustainability Series

March 29th, 2012

The Sustainability Series at Clackamas Community College (CCC) returns for a seventh year with a line up of speakers and activities. Events run from April 6 through June 9 and are open to the public. All events are free except for the Mask Making workshop on April 6 and Barbara Ford’s “Active Hope” seminar on June 9. Here is the Sustainability Speaker Series 2012 line-up:

• Mask Making for the Earth. Friday, April 6, 12:30 to 4:30 p.m. CCC’s Environmental Learning Center, Lakeside Hall. Robin Chilstrom, artist and educator. Celebrate Earth Day by engaging your artistic talents to create a mask that depicts an image that honors the earth. Cost is $10. For more information, call 503-594-3639 or visit http://depts.clackamas.edu/elc/ .

• Campus Sustainability Tour. Monday, April 16, noon to 1 p.m. Meet outside the north entrance to the Community Center. Isaac Soper, CCC sustainability ambassador. This tour showcases the many ways CCC is actively pursuing sustainability in both our operations and academic programs. Each tour stop features informative resources.

• Peak Oil Part II: Re-grounding and Re-inventing Ourselves as a Community.  Tuesday, April 17, noon to 1 p.m., DeJardin  Hall, room 233. Charles Stephens, policy analyst, Energy Trust of Oregon. More than 40 years after the first Earth Day, most of us are more separated than ever from the Earth and its other living inhabitants. At the same time, society’s long-established institutions and frameworks for conducting ourselves are falling apart. Perhaps we need a new relationship with the Earth, and a new way of being in our communities.

• Burgerville: Changing the Way Business Does Business. Wednesday, April 18, noon to 1 p.m. DeJardin Hall, room 233. Jack Graves, chief culture officer, Burgerville, serves as a steward of the company’s mission and culture, and is committed to the implementation of sustainable practices and affordable health care for all employees.

• Campus Sustainability Tour. Friday, April 20, noon to 1 p.m. Meet outside the north entrance to the Community Center. Isaac Soper, CCC sustainability ambassador. This tour showcases the many ways CCC is actively pursuing sustainability in both our operations and academic programs. Each tour stop features informative resources.

•  Dave’s Killer Bread Story. Tuesday, May 1, from noon to 1 p.m. Gregory Forum. Dave Dahl, president and co-founder, Dave’s Killer Bread. Dahl shares the inspirational story of after serving 15 years in prison, he returned to work at his family’s bakery and developed new recipes, including the popular Dave’s Killer Bread.

• Active Hope: How to Face the Mess We’re in Without Going Crazy. Saturday, June 9, 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. CCC’s Environmental Learning Center, Lakeside Hall. Barbara Ford, earth activist, Growing Awareness into Action. Fee $25. This workshop explores new ways in which we can find inspiration and embody our gifts for the healing of our world.

For more information on the CCC Sustainability Speaker Series 2012, please contact Alison Heimowitz at 503-594-3696. For more information on sustainability events and workshops, please go to www.clackamas.edu .

-30-

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

Clackamas Women's Services announces its Heroes of Hope Gala

March 27th, 2012

Clackamas Women’s Services
Announces Its
Heroes of Hope Gala

Celebrating Its 2012 Honorees
For Their Courage, Vision & Compassion

Saturday, April 21, 2012
Oregon Golf Club
25700 SW Pete’s Mt Road
West Linn, OR  97068

Reception, Dinner, Program,  Auction. Desert and Dancing.
Celebrate individuals and organizations that support who empower women to live violence-free lives.

Tribute Awards
Tonia Hunt & The Children’s Center
Their environment has helped to bring justice to children who have suffered unthinkable abuse.

Triumph Award
Dixielynn Johnson
Celebrating her courage, resilience, vision & compassion over her circumstances.
She has triumphed over her partner abuse and works courageously on behalf of CWS.

2012 Ally Award
Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office
Lethality Assessment Protocol (LAP) Program
Working with CWS and their dedication to mitigate violence against women.
In the first.six months80 survivors have been connected to vital services and resources

Alexis Del Cid, an award winning reporter and anchor, will MC the event and
Soul Diva Linda Hornbuckle will perform with her band.

Tickets can be obtained by calling the CWS at (503) 722-2266 or Contact:  Ann Rogers-Williams at
(503) 722-2366 x101 or annrw@cwsor.org for more information

Sponsorship Opportunities
Celebration Booklet Ad Sponsorships
and Table Sponsorships

Hero Level Table @ $5,025
Visionary Level Table at $2,2525
Courageous Level Table at $1,525
Compassionate level Table at $1,025

Individual at $150 –

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

Decode fake customer reviews online

March 27th, 2012

Don’t believe everything you read

Consumers researching businesses, products and services may find more than just reliable reviews on the Web; recent research by Cornell University indicates that some feedback is planted. Prior to purchasing, don’t be persuaded by phony praise.

“Review sites, blogs and forums are important in the research process; people want to know what other customers are saying. But keep in mind that not all feedback is genuine and not all authors are who they claim to be,” says Robert W.G. Andrew, CEO of Better Business Bureau serving Alaska, Oregon and Western Washington.

When searching for real reviews, testimonials and posts, consider the following:

Who? Ideally, reviews will come from actual customers. However, some companies hire writers to place positive reviews on themselves; while others employ staff to post negative, damaging comments on competitors.

• Search reviewers’ names online. See what other companies they are writing about; if it is limited to one industry only, it is possible that responses are rigged.
• Be suspicious if customers’ names resemble company officials or brands. In some cases, authors can be verifiably tied to companies they are complimenting. The FTC’s Endorsement and Testimonial Guide requires transparency and disclosure.
• Be doubtful of overly complex or simple screen names—such as “johnsmith123.”

What? Take a good look at wording and tone. If it is filled with marketing messages, scripted taglines or product plugs, it is most likely from company representatives.

• Don’t trust overly subjective compliments and puffery—such as “life-changing.”
• Beware of false allegations, insults and disparaging attacks from competitors.
• Look out for identical phrases or similar verbiage from different users. Cut and paste suspicious sentences into search engines to see what is on other sites.

When? If similar messages and posts were placed around the same month, week or day—allegedly by different reviewers—it is likely a “paid” effort.

Where? Beware if all comments are limited to companies’ blogs or testimonial pages. Don’t just read reviews from one site; consider numerous sources and always check BBB Business Reviews on bbb.org.

Why? Business leaders know that consumers rely on online reviews so it may be tempting to mimic favorable feedback. Read “customer” comments with skepticism.

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

Chamber represented at Metro advisory group

March 27th, 2012

Wilda Parks, your Chamber’s Vice President of External Affairs, was thanked for prior service and reappointed to a new term as the Clackamas County Citizen Representative to Metro’s Policy Advisory Council (MPAC).

Parks, former CEO of the chamber, was originally appointed to represent the county by Metro President David Bragdon in 2004. MPAC is composed of 21 voting members representing cities, counties, special districts, and the public and six non-voting members including a representative from the Oregon Department of Land Conservation and Development, Port of Portland, cities in Clackamas County outside the urban growth boundary, cities in Washington County outside the UGB, the City of Vancouver, Washington, and Clark County, Washington. In addition, three Metro Councilors participate as non-voting liaisons. Citizen representatives are appointed by the Metro Council President and council.

In his appointment of Parks to a new two year term Metro President Tom Hughes noted he had asked the elected officials of the county for their input, and all recommended reappointing Parks. In her MPAC role she shares information with chambers in the county, the North Clackamas Chamber’s public policy team, and with those on other advisory teams and councils she is part of. Alternate for Parks is Oak Grove resident Ed Gronke.

MPAC advises the Metro Council on the amendment or adoption of the Regional Framework Plan including regional transportation, management of the urban growth boundary, protection of lands outside the urban growth boundary for natural resource, future urban or other uses, planning responsibilities required by state law, other growth management and land use planning matters determined by the Metro Council to be of metropolitan concern which will benefit from regional planning.

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

OR 213 opened ahead of schedule

March 27th, 2012

Traffic started rolling on the new bridge at 11:40 p.m. Monday

OR 213 re-opened at 11:40 p.m. Monday after a four-day closure to install a new bridge in Oregon City. The road had been scheduled to re-open at 4 a.m. Tuesday.

 The closure brought traffic delays on adjacent streets but also means motorists will see no more weekday lane closures over the course of the project, which is scheduled for completion by the spring of 2013.

“Thank you to all motorists who were inconvenienced by this delay,” said Oregon City Mayor Doug Neeley. “We certainly realize this closure required some patience but I think everyone will see real advantages when the project is complete.”

Contractors successfully removed a 130-foot long section of OR 213 and slid the new bridge—130 feet long and 140 feet wide and weighing 1.6 million pounds —into place. They completed the move and re-opened the road sooner than expected.

Mowat Construction Company and OBEC Consulting Engineers are reconstructing the intersection of OR 213, Washington Street and Clackamas River Drive, with Washington Street realigned to pass under OR 213. The project will relieve congestion, enhance safety and provide increased capacity for the growth expected over the next 20 years.

The Washington Street/Clackamas River Drive intersection with OR 213 is among the busiest signalized intersections in the state, with an average weekday traffic count of 65,000. When complete, the eight-phase traffic signal will need only two phases.

The rapid bridge construction process used to install the new bridge shortens the project by six months. Traditional construction would have meant closing at least two lanes on OR 213, which would have meant severe delays for 12 to 16 months.

For more information go to www.jughandleproject.com.

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

$1,000 gift card ploy used in smishing scheme

March 23rd, 2012

Smishers use Walmart and Best Buy as bait

Cell phones across the U.S. are receiving unexpected text messages offering $1,000 gift cards from stores like Walmart and Best Buy.

Better Business Bureau advises recipients to disregard too-good-to-be-true gifts and solicitations that arrive by short message service or SMS. Similar to phishing emails, smishing text messages aim to steal personal data or dollars with harmful websites or fraudulent return phone numbers.

“You just won a free $1000 Walmart Gift Card, enter “1000” at …”

“Dear Walmart shopper, Congratulations you have just won a $1000 Walmart Gift Card. Click here to claim your gift …”

“You have been randomly selected for a BestBuy gift. Get your $1000 gift card now at …”

According to Walmart, the company will not initiate text messages in exchange for personal information and it is not affiliated with the parties promoting these activities.

Though some text messages may be from real companies—not scammers—be careful with unknown businesses; unless contact information was provided voluntarily, they may have collected phone numbers without permission. If solicited, BBB serving Alaska, Oregon and Western Washington suggests the following:

Don’t take the bait. Frauds often use well-known retailers’ names without permission. If companies are offering high-value goods or gift cards for free, there is probably a catch.

Don’t reply. Smishers often send mass-messages to random phone numbers hoping for replies so they can reuse numbers for other schemes. Delete messages immediately.

Don’t call back. Scammers may attempt to pry for data over the phone.

Don’t click links. Fraudulent websites could contain harmful downloads or viruses that infect phones or other devices. Web addresses may be masked to look like other sites.

Don’t enter personal information. Avoid giving out details to “claim” winnings. Never release credit card numbers, provide bank account information or wire money to pay fees, taxes or shipping costs for “free” items or prizes. Provide contact information with caution, as it may result in unwanted solicitations and not-so-free trials; always read companies’ privacy policies first.

Visit bbb.org, ftc.gov and fcc.gov for more advice on avoiding smishing schemes.

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

Local high school raises funds to improve baseball facilities

March 23rd, 2012

The Clackamas Baseball Booster Association unveiled plans to raise funds to help improve the baseball facilities at Clackamas High School and recently held an all you can eat Crab Feed and Auction to kick off the effort with hopes of being able to begin construction on the renovation starting in August 2012. Sun Glow, Inc. Heating And Air Conditioning is not only a member of the Chamber but is a strong supporter of Clackamas High School and its after-school events in both the athletics and the arts.

This project will involve installing a turf in field and lights on the Varsity field and a much needed drainage system on the JV field, which in its current state does allow the JV team to hold practices or games during the regular season, some of their homes games are now held at Hoodview Park.

The CBBA is looking to raise $350,000.00 to fund this project and is asking for community members and local businesses to join and help make this dream become a reality by visiting the www.clackamasbaseball.com website to view the project and also see the many options available for advertising opportunities, which include outfield sign boards, dug out signage, summer baseball team naming rights and even the naming of the new field, all of these offer Clackamas businesses a great opportunity to support their community High School for years to come!

If you have any questions on the project or would like to discuss options on how you can help please contact Baseball Head Coach John Arntson at arntsonj@nclack.k12.or.us

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

Outdoor Sculpture Exposition features 30 sculptors

March 23rd, 2012

Michihiro Kosuge’s sculpture “Morphoric Figure”

Sculptures from 30 Northwest sculptors will be on display during the Outdoor Sculpture Exposition at Clackamas Community College (CCC), opening Monday, April 9 and continuing through Friday, June 15. Works in a variety of media and concepts will be displayed throughout the grounds of CCC’s 165-acre Oregon City campus.

An artists’ reception featuring the Tuboh Butoh/Sheri Brown Dance Company will be held on Thursday, May 24, from 3 to 6:30 p.m. in the college commons outside the Community Center. The dance company will present “Opening/Processional/Divided by Zero” in two performances at 3:30 and 5:30 p.m. They will continue to perform in various locations among the sculptures throughout the reception.

The reception will also feature master koto player Mitsuki Dazai performing both traditional and contemporary Japanese music.

The Outdoor Sculpture Exhibition is a tradition at the college started by art instructor Rick True in the early 1990s. This is the sixth show he has organized. “I organize the shows to open eyes and minds to the possibility of creativity and the artists that have the fortitude to tackle difficult but inspiring materials and scale. Sculptors make sculpture because there’s little more satisfying than exhibiting the fruit of their concepts and hard labor,” said True.

The shows have helped some artists start their careers, and they’ve been supported by sculptors of national reputation like Lee Kelly and Michihiro Kosuge. The sculptures range in size from medium to large scale and are created from bronze, steel, wood and mixed media.

This year’s show will feature work from Kelly and Kosuge, as well as Devin Laurence Field, Gilles Foisy, Julian Voss-Andreae, Katy McFadden and many others. For more information about the show, please contact Rick True at 503-594-3038 or rtrue@clackamas.edu.

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

‘Pay It Forward’ Program provides lifeline to veterans in need

March 23rd, 2012

Veteran students at Clackamas Community College (CCC) have developed a solution to the ongoing problem of late veteran’s benefits while the Oregon City Elks stepped up to seed the new Pay It Forward Veteran Discretionary Grant with a special evening honoring CCC veteran programs earlier this month.

Late benefits affect almost every veteran at least once in their academic careers, and for some it is a constant problem. Students in the CCC Veterans Club recognized this problem and came up with a solution: structuring and maintaining a grant to fill the gaps caused by late benefits for veterans.

The Veterans Club worked with the CCC Foundation, a 501C3 non-profit organization, to establish the grant program. Oregon City Elks member Ken Kraft presented Veterans Club President Jerred Sundquist with a $1,000 Beacon Grant on March 10. The Veterans of Foreign Wars donated $700, and Elks members Dick and Barbara Knudson made a $5,000 donation.

Donations to the fund will be divided between an endowment and funds available for immediate needs. Veterans in need of a one-time grant will apply to the Veterans Center. Funds will be available summer term.

“Veterans can pay back the grants if they are able,” said Greg Myers, veterans affairs coordinator at CCC. “The Pay it Forward spirit is important. We are giving back to the veterans that have given unselfishly to this country so they may succeed.”

Serving veterans and their families is college-wide commitment at CCC. The college was recently awarded the national Family Program Community Purple Award by the National Guard Joint Family Program.

If you would like to learn more about the Pay it Forward Program or make a contribution, please contact Vicki Smith at 503-594-3128 or email vickis@clackamas.edu.

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

Chamber joins with city to keep TriMet route to protect jobs

March 20th, 2012

Considerations of cuts in TriMet routes in the Happy Valley area led your Chamber to join forces with the City of Happy Valley, New Seasons Market and the Happy Valley Business Alliance to retain Route 155.

TriMet, in their reduction plans, had proposed eliminating 155 from their service area.  Over the past few years others routes in the area have been reduced or eliminated, causing hardships for the businesses and citizens alike.

The communication with TriMet was successful, and TriMet has informed the City that this line will not be reduced as part of the transit company’s overall reduction program.

A number of employees of businesses, especially at the Happy Valley Town Center, depend on transit to get them to and from work timely. The service reduction would have greatly affected New Seasons Market. With additional growth in the Happy Valley area, both in businesses and residential, the need for supportive transit systems becomes even more acute.

Your Chamber joined the partnership as part of its goals of strengthening the local economy and advocating for business.

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

Highway 213 Jughandle Project – Construction update

March 20th, 2012

Test Move a Success

The City’s contractor moved the new bridge 5 feet closer to becoming a part of Highway 213 on Friday during a test to make sure that all equipment is operating as expected. With the successful completion of the test, the bridge’s big move is on-track to occur as scheduled during the four-day/ five-night highway closure that begins this Thursday at 8 p.m. The highway will be completely closed to pedestrians, bicycles and vehicles between the Washington Street/Clackamas River Drive intersection and I-205.  Crews are using a series of rollers, threaded rods and jacks to slide the new six-lane bridge—1.6 million pounds, 130 feet long, and 140 feet wide—into place on its permanent foundation. You can watch the contractor’s progress during the closure from the website construction camera: http://jughandleproject.com/cam.html

Oregonian infographic about rapid bridge construction

Oregonian reporter Steve Mayes and graphic artist Dan Aguayo worked with the project team to develop an infographic about the project’s rapid bridge construction. You can see the graphic and read Mayes’ article on the Oregonian’s website, OregonLive.com:  http://www.oregonlive.com/oregon-city/index.ssf/2012/03/oregon_213_closure_means_motor.html

This week! 4-Day (104-hour) Closure of Highway 213 at I-205 from 8 p.m. Thursday, March 22^nd through 4 a.m. Tuesday, March 27^th .  Long traffic delays are likely on Highway 99E/McLoughlin Blvd., I-205, and local roads in Oregon City.

Want more information about the Jughandle Project?

Visit www.jughandleproject.com.

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

Clackamas County Community Survey shows majority support for job growth and favorable attitude toward county services

March 20th, 2012

Three-quarters of Clackamas County residents approve of the quality and performance of services being provided by the county and a near majority believe the county is “headed in the right direction” according to a recently completed survey of 400 county residents compiled by DHM Research.

Seventy-five percent of those polled rated job creation as an urgent or high priority, followed by public safety concerns and supporting social service programs. The percentage of respondents who identified economic growth as their number one concern grew from 6 percent in 2008 to 20 percent. Road maintenance issues were a close second at 18 percent, yet a majority of respondents do not favor the creation of revenue streams to dedicate toward long-term road maintenance.

Opinions were closely split on the proposed Portland-Milwaukie Light rail expansion. Thirty-seven percent reported positive feelings about the project compared to 34 percent reported negative feelings and 27 percent were neutral.

Other key findings include:

• More than 90 percent of the respondents indicated that it was important to have accessible information online.
• Forty-six percent believe the county is headed in the right direction and 29 percent said it is headed on the wrong track. Of that group, residents aged 18 to 54 were more upbeat.
• Respondents who believed taxes were too high more than doubled from four years ago.
• Land use, population growth and public safety were trumped by more pressing issues in the survey.

An online survey was available to residents between February 29 and March 15. There were 1,272 respondents. Among those respondents 60 percent were satisfied  with county services. Fifty-one percent online had “very or somewhat positive views” of the Portland-Milwaukie Light Rail project. Nearly two-thirds believe the project will provide more convenient access to transportation or create jobs.

The community survey has been conducted every four years to gauge citizen perceptions satisfactions with county programs and services. The survey will now be conducted every two years, beginning this year.  This year, for the first time, the survey included an online component.

A comprehensive analysis of the survey prepared by DHM can  be found at  www.clackamas.us.

For more information please contact Tim Heider at (503) 742-5911.

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

Boring Fire District recognizes service "Over and Above"

March 15th, 2012

Boring Fire District announced award recipients during its annual banquet on February 18, 2012.  Fire department members who have shown exemplary character, work ethic and commitment to service were given plaques and recognition.

The individuals listed below have demonstrated the ability to work under extreme pressure, and the desire to learn and to teach.  It is individuals such as these that challenge us to meet them at the top.

-  Rookie of the Year – FF Josh Miller
-  Firefighter’s of the Year — FF Leslie Cox and FF Mike McGuire
-  Officer of the Year — Lt Rick Searls

Rookie of the year and Firefighter of the Year are chosen by the Officers of Boring Fire District, Officer of the Year is chosen by the Chief Officers.

Volunteer FF Josh Miller (Rookie of the Year) participates in public education and outreach efforts and responded to 577 alarms; making him the Top Responder for the Eagle Creek Station. Josh also serves on the Special Projects Committee. Josh participated in 101 duty shifts and accomplished 157 hours of training in 2011.

Volunteer FF Leslie Cox (Firefighter of the Year) participates in numerous public education and outreach efforts with great work ethic and a team player attitude. In addition, to Leslie’s numerous hours of training, he responded to 361 alarms, and participated in 73 Duty Crew shifts.

Volunteer FF Mike McGuire (Firefighter of the Year) participates in numerous public education and outreach efforts with contagious enthusiasm. In addition, Mike completed numerous hours of training, responded to 866 alarms, and participated in 108 Duty Crew shifts.

Volunteer Lt Rick Searls (Officer of the Year) is a station leader and very active in station events.  Lt Searls leads by example and is truly committed to the service of his community.  In addition to being Volunteer President, he is on the apparatus committee as well as the ADHOC committee and participation in the 1409 program and in mutual aid station manning. Lt Searls also completed numerous hours of training.

Division Chief George Eisert (Employee of the Year) is a positive and fair person who is dedicated to the department and district he serves.  DC Eisert demonstrates his commitment to Boring Fire District and the community he serves through his positive can do attitude.  His professional manner boosts moral and his personable nature inspires others to excel.  A fantastic Ambassador for the district, DC Eisert has been very instrumental in the joint volunteer process with Boring and Clackamas Fire Districts. His resolve and steadfastness lends confidence to those around him. Throughout his career George has been involved with a number of NFPA committees, worked on various IFSTA training manuals, and currently holds the position of President of the Oregon Fire Apparatus & Equipment Maintenance Association.

It is with much regret that one week after receiving Employee of the Year; Chief Eisert lost his battle to pancreatic cancer.

The Distinguished Service Award was earned by Ken Naas.
Ken has served in many roles throughout his 50 years with Boring Fire.  Ken started as a Volunteer Firefighter in 1961 and worked his way up to Captain. Ken continues to serve the district as a valuable Support Member.

The Community Appreciation Awards were earned by Liepold Farms and Timber Pub and Grub for their continued support of the Boring Volunteers Firefighters Association.

Boring & Clackamas Fire District’s New Volunteer Association Officers are:
President, Rick Searls
Vice President, Jerry Kearny
Sec/Treasurer, Amy Morrison/Daniel Weisenburg
Sergeant of Arms, Jack Tanz

For additional information, photographs, or to interview recipients, contact: Tammy Owen at 503-663-4638 direct or 503-572-6012 cell.

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

Alternate routes – Highway 213 closure

March 13th, 2012

Alignment of Washington Street and Clackamas River Drive travel lanes to be shifted

During the night on Thursday, March 8^th, crews will shift the Clackamas River Drive travel lanes near the Highway 213 intersection to the north. By 5:30 am on Friday, crews will have completed the shift and motorists will travel on the new roadway alignments.

Clackamas River Drive travel lanes will be modified to include:

• One westbound dedicated left turn travel lane
• One westbound dedicated right turn travel lane
• One westbound through travel lane
• One eastbound travel lane

In addition, crews will restripe Washington Street to include two eastbound and two westbound travel lanes in front of the Home Depot and the Metro South Transfer Station.

In anticipation of these changes, the traffic signals along Washington Street and at the Highway 213/Washington Street/Clackamas River Drive intersection will be adjusted.  Motorists are advised to drive with extra caution through the work zone as they become familiar with the new temporary roadway alignments.

Mark Your Calendar!  4-Day (104-hour) Closure of Highway 213 at I-205 from 8 p.m. Thursday, March 22^nd through 4 a.m. Tuesday, March 27^th .  Long traffic delays are likely on Highway 99E/McLoughlin Blvd., I-205, and local roads in Oregon City.

Want more information about the Jughandle Project?

Visit www.jughandleproject.com.

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

Guard against identity theft

March 13th, 2012

According to the Federal Trade Commission, 279,156 identity theft complaints were reported in the U.S. in 2011—the single largest category of complaints. This figure does not take into account those who did not report that their identities were stolen or those who failed to realize that their identities had been compromised.

 Personal information is private. For the fourth tip of National Consumer Protection Week—or NCPW—Better Business Bureau serving Alaska, Oregon and Western Washington reminds consumers to take steps in identity protection.

First, take a quiz at bbb.org to gauge identity theft risk.

Surf secure. Ensure online security:

• Only enter personal information on websites that offer secure connections; look for “https”.
• Review privacy policies and other disclosures before entering information.
• Never click on links or attachments in unsolicited emails, as items may contain viruses or malware.
• Always make sure that anti-virus software is up-to-date.
• Choose unique passwords; avoid common sequences.

Stay safe. Proactively protect personal information:

• Avoid giving out Social Security numbers. Find out why it is needed.
• Store personal documents securely; invest in a lock box or safe.
• Shred expired or unwanted documents: akorww.bbb.org/secure-your-id.

Study statements. Carefully analyze monthly account statements and look for discrepancies; report any issues immediately.

Check with BBB for current identity theft news; visit bbb.org and ftc.gov for valuable information on preventing identity theft.

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

The National Alliance on Mental Illness to offer free class

March 13th, 2012

The National Alliance on Mental Illness of Clackamas County (NAMI-CC) will be offering a free class for people who love someone with a mental health disorder.

The 12 week Family-to-Family course is taught by trained family members.  Course curriculum covers such diverse topics as current information about major mental illnesses, medications and side effects; gaining empathy and understanding of your loved one with a mental illness; problem solving and communication skills specific coping with someone with a mental health disorder; advocacy; self-care and much more.

One young lady in our county, who was able to help her homeless, untreated father access housing and other resources, attributes her success to the communication and advocacy skills she learned in a Family-to-Family class.  Today that father is again spending time with all of his children and planning on walking that young lady down the aisle this fall at her wedding.

To register for the NAMI-CC or the Family-to-Family classes that will be held in Happy Valley starting Saturday, March 31^st at 10 am, please contact the NAMI-CC office at 503-344-5050 or nami.clackamas@gmail.com.  To find out more about Family-to-Family, see www.nami.org/F2F.

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

Use resources

March 11th, 2012

Knowing where to go when problems arise can prevent serious headaches. Better Business Bureau serving Alaska, Oregon and Western Washington reminds consumers to turn to consumer protection groups.

Understand available resources. Find service organizations.

U.S. Federal Reserve—the central bank of the United States—provides advice on monetary matters at federalreserve.gov/consumerinfo.

U.S. Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or FDIC provides consumer protection tools for the nation’s financial system at fdic.gov/consumers.

Annual Credit Report allows individuals to check free credit reports once per year from annualcreditreport.com.

Credit Reporting Bureaus let identity theft victims place fraud alerts on credit reports:

• Equifax.com – 800-685-1111
• Experian.com – 888-397-3742
• TransUnion.com – 800-888-4213

National Do Not Call Registry helps reduce telemarketing calls; add phone numbers to the registry at donotcall.gov or call 1-888-382-1222.

Federal Trade Commission or FTC is the nation’s consumer advocacy group, which provides anti-fraud tools and other marketplace information at ftc.gov/bcp.

Internet Crime Complaint Center or IC3 allows users to learn about Internet crimes and file complaints at ic3.gov.

Oregon Department of Justice is a consumer protection agency that offers anti-fraud information and complaint assistance at doj.state.or.us.

Oregon Department of Consumer and Business Services is a regulatory agency that offers statewide consumer protection resources at oregon.gov/dcbs.

Better Business Bureau provides free BBB Business Reviews, shopping advice for consumers, guidance for businesses and complaint services at bbb.org.

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

April 2012 Clackamas Community College calendar of events

March 9th, 2012

April 4, 11, 18, 25

Chrysalis: Women Writers

Local author Pat Lichen guides women writers of all levels through discussions of their work. Chrysalis meets Wednesdays from noon to 2 p.m. in the Literary Arts Center, Room 220 in Rook Hall. For information, call 503-594-3254.

April 6

Mask Making for the Earth Workshop

Celebrate Earth Day by engaging your artistic talents to create a mask that depicts an image that honors the earth. Workshop is from 12:30 to 4:30 p.m. at CCC’s Environmental Learning Center. Cost is $10. For more information, call 503-594-3639 or visit http://depts.clackamas.edu/elc/

April 7, 14, 21, 28

Garden Design

This introductory course provides instruction for planning garden areas. Class meets Saturdays, April 7 – 28, from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in Clairmont, room 118. Cost is $103.50. For more information, call 503-594-3292 or visit http://depts.clackamas.edu/hort/

April 17

CCC Sustainability Series: Peak Oil

Charlie Stephens speaks on Peak Oil as part of the 2012 Sustainability Series at CCC. For more information, call Alison Heimowitz at 503-594-3696.

April 18

CCC Sustainability Series: Burgerville – Changing the Way Business Does Business

Jack Graves, chief culture officer for Burgerville, tells the story of the company’s history, mission and values. His presentation is part of the 2012 Sustainability Series at CCC. For more information, call Alison Heimowitz at 503-594-3696.

April 19

CCC Sustainability Series: Transportation and Community

Hector Osuna Mondragon is lead organizer at OPAL (Organizing People Activating Leaders), a Portland-based organization that was recently awarded by the EPA for their environmental and transit justice work in Oregon. He will discuss how public transportation policies impact local communities. His presentation is part of the 2012 Sustainability Series at CCC. For more information, call Alison Heimowitz at 503-594-3696.

April 22

CRT Play Reading Series: “Cornelia”

Clackamas Repertory Theatre’s play-reading series, Sundays at Three, continues on April 22 with “Cornelia” by Mark V. Olsen, directed by Doren Elias. Tickets are $6 and available online at www.clackamasrep.org or at the box office in the Niemeyer Center. For more information call 503-594-6047.

April 25

Spring Community Fair

The Spring Community Fair is from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. outside the Community Center, or inside if it is raining. This year’s theme is “A Souper Event.” Several CCC departments, clubs, Clackamas County businesses and other vendors will be represented at the fair. For more information, contact Michelle Baker at 503-594-3040.

April 30
Ron Covell Metal Working Seminar

Join Street Rodder Magazine’s Professor Hammer, Ron Covell, as he discusses and demonstrates various aspects of auto restoration, custom panel fabrication and more. Seminar is Monday, April 30, from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m., at CCC Oregon City, Barlow Hall. Fee: $25. For more information, call the CCC Automotive Department at 503-594-3047.

April 30 – May 3

International Celebration at CCC

The CCC Foreign Language Department and language clubs host this annual celebration in cooperation with the ESL and Counseling and Advising departments. Enjoy music dance, art, cultural displays and international food from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. daily. For more information call 503-594-3245 or 503-594-3403.

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

Rivermark Community Credit Union launches mobile deposit

March 9th, 2012

Rivermark Community Credit Union is the first Oregon credit union to offer Mobile Deposit, a new service that allows members to securely deposit paper checks using their iPhone, iPad2, iPod Touch or Android™ mobile device. Since the launch on Thursday, March 1, over 1,300 members have downloaded the free app and deposited over 700 items. “It’s still early, but so far over 60% of deposits have been made using an Apple® device, 30% using an Android™ device and the rest using a PC-based desktop scanner,” said Aaron Bledy, Rivermark’s Remote Delivery Manager.

Making deposits using a mobile phone provides unprecedented access and convenience for members. “Our members are no longer bound by the proximity of branch locations, branch hours or the availability of deposit taking ATMs,” continued Bledy.

One Rivermark member described her experience this way: “Just downloaded the mobile deposit app & used it for the first time today. This is going to simply REVOLUTIONIZE my banking,” said Debra in Milwaukie.

To get started, members simply tap the Mobile Deposit button in Mobile Banking and download the free DeposZip Mobile app. For members who do not have a web-enabled phone, Rivermark offers a desktop version that is available within Online Banking. There is no fee for using Rivermark’s Mobile Deposit or its PC-based Online Deposit service.

Rivermark partnered with Vertifi Software LLC, to offer the DeposZip product to members. Since 2008, Vertifi’s flagship program has processed over $1.5 billion in deposits for seventy-eight credit unions across the country.

Rivermark Community Credit Union serves more than 60,000 members and has over $545 million in assets. Membership is open to anyone who lives or works in 11 Oregon counties. For more information on Rivermark, visit their website at www.rivermarkcu.org.

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »