Tigard Neighborhood Area 5

Help Keep Pets with their Family

2011-11-04T16:40:00.000-07:00

Donate for pets in need

The City of Tigard employee values team is sponsoring a pet food and pet supply drive in an effort to keep Tigard families from being forced to give up a beloved pet(s) this holiday season because of financial hardship.
Look for the bright yellow Sunshine Pantry containers in the lobby of City Hall, the Permit Center and Public Works from Nov. 7– Dec.19, or gather donations for the containers in the Tigard library lobby between Nov. 20 – Dec.17.

Learn more at www.sunshinepantry.org or by calling Sharon Straus, director of the Sunshine Pantry at 971-506-7827

Tigard Seeks Feedback on Potential Station Areas

2011-09-22T15:25:00.000-07:00

The city’s High Capacity Transit Land Use Plan has reached an important milestone for public input. Draft land use concepts are now ready for review. The public is invited to provide comments on seven areas, also known as potential station communities, at an open house on September 28, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. at the Tigard Library.

Visit www.tigard-or.gov/hct for maps and more information about the plan. While all seven areas are likely to grow in the future, not all would receive a high capacity transit stop.

The seven potential station communities in Tigard are
• Pacific Hwy/Gaarde/McDonald Streets
• downtown Tigard
• Scholls Ferry/121st Avenue
• Summerfield area
• the Tigard Triangle
• Upper Bridgeport Village
• Washington Square
Tigard’s High Capacity Transit Land Use Plan is part of the regional process to plan for community investments in the Southwest Corridor that could include roads, bike lanes, sidewalks, access to nature and public transit. Metro and other project partners will also be on hand at the open house to provide information about the region’s Southwest Corridor Plan.

Previous project milestones include the identification of seven potential station communities in Tigard, and the development of a set of desired neighborhood types that are appropriate to the scale and expected growth in Tigard. Concepts for each area were developed by community members with support from project consultants and staff.

Main Street Trick or Treat

2011-09-22T15:10:00.000-07:00

The popular Halloween “Trick or Treat Main Street” event will be held from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Monday, October 31. Look for participating merchants who will be displaying a “Halloween Event” flyer in their window.

Rain or shine we hope to see you there!

Questions? Contact Margaret Ellenson at Tyler’s Automotive at 503-639-5588.

Pew shares figures about internet use

2011-08-17T11:24:00.000-07:00

If you ever wondered about social media utilization by different demographic groups, the Pew Internet & American Life Project (http://www.pewinternet.org/) contains research reports by topic and data tools. Some are quite interesting. Here's one I found particularly informative.

Council approves Economic Opportunities Analysis

2011-06-22T15:59:00.000-07:00

Good news for our neighborhood area: The City Council has adopted Tigard’s first Economic Opportunities Analysis (EOA). City planner Darren Wyss noted that Tigard is currently under periodic review and completing the EOA is required by the periodic review work program.

The EOA document compares a projected 20-year industrial employment land demand to existing supply and ensures an adequate supply of land for industrial and employment for long- and short-term needs. The EOA illustrates the characteristics of Tigard’s employment lands so we can develop policies and action measures to plan a 20-year supply of appropriately zoned land.

Councilor Wilson said the EOA confirms a lot of what Council already knows. He said, “When land is constrained you build up, particularly in the Tigard Triangle. He also added that vacant land does not add to the tax base; improved land does.” Council Wilson noted that “Tigard is a leader in the suburban communities in terms of office demand.”

Looking for Census Date to aid business?

2011-03-25T16:10:00.000-07:00

Portland State University operates the Population Research Center that has loads of interesting information about our city, county and state. Log on to their site at:

http://www.pdx.edu/prc/oregon-census-state-data-center

Map showing the Tree Cutting Project off Hunziker

2010-09-14T15:47:00.000-07:00

Due to the amount of calls and inquiries regarding the activity off Hunziker and along Wall Street, the city has provided a link showing the area to be cleared. The permits require a 50-foot buffer behind property lines along Cherry Street. www.tigard-or.gov/news/docs/treeremoval.pdf

For more information, contact City Planner, Gary Pagenstecher at 503-718-2434 or GaryP@tigard-or.gov

Leaking Hoses and Drippy Faucets Waste Water

2010-09-13T15:18:00.000-07:00

When was the last time you checked your hoses and outdoor faucets for leaks? As summer comes to a close it’s a good time to make sure your irrigation system is in good shape before you stow your hoses and sprinklers for the winter.

A tiny hole - just 1/16th of an inch in diameter in a hose or irrigation line can waste 25,000 gallons of water a month! A faucet that is dripping at the rate of 90 drops a minute can waste 288 gallons a month. The Regional Water Providers Consortium’s website has information and how-to videos on finding and fixing leaks. www.conserveh2o.org

Leaks account for 14% of the average American household’s water use. Save money and water by checking your hoses, irrigation lines and faucets regularly and make needed repairs.

What is the Regional Water Providers Consortium?
The is a group of over 20 area water providers and Metro that serves Clackamas, Multnomah and Washington Counties. The Consortium is committed to developing and implementing regional water conservation programs that help educate the public about conserving water.
Statistics provided by the Regional Water Providers Consortium Lindsey Berman, 503-823-0616, lberman@water.ci.portland.or.us

Skatepark Update‏

2010-04-08T13:11:00.000-07:00

Dreamland Skate Parks, the original builder of the Jim Griffith Memorial Skate Park, is doing a repair and adding new features along the upper deck of the park. The new features are designed to add new challenges and to keep users away from the cyclone fence. Most of the concrete cutting should be done today so, the dust should settling soon. Dreamland is scheduled to be on site through tomorrow but there could be delays.

Thank you for your patience.

Martin McKnight

Supervisor

City of Tigard, Parks

503 718-2598

News about construction on Pacific Hwy/99W

2010-04-08T12:43:00.000-07:00

There will be a Meet the Contractor Open House on April 27, 2010 from 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the City of Tigard Public Works Building.

Within the next week or two, a phone number will be activated which gives residents and 99W motorists a way to communicate problems or ideas with the project managers. The phone number will be posted on the road signs. Callers will reach a ‘live’ person on the phone between 8am-5pm, and between 5pm and 8am calls will be directed to a recording which gives citizens a cell number of the Project Manager or/and the Project Inspector to speak to a live person. Callers will also be able to leave a message.

Security Upgrades by TriMet‏

2010-04-08T12:41:00.000-07:00

TriMet Receives Grant for Security Upgrades

Grant will fund more MAX station cameras
TriMet is receiving a $1.9 million federal grant from the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to enhance security on the transit system.

The grant will allow us to add security cameras at 9 MAX stations, complete perimeter securement at TriMet facilities and fund a backup command center.

Starting this summer, we will begin installing cameras at the following stations:

· Eastside: E 122nd Ave, E 102nd Ave, Gateway Transit Center (adding more cameras), Parkrose/Sumner Transit Center, NE 7th Ave, Convention Center

· Westside: Goose Hollow/SW Jefferson St, Millikan Way, Orenco/NW 231st Ave

This will bring the total number of stations with cameras to 74 out of 84, many funded with TSA grants. This is the fourth TSA grant awarded to TriMet to enhance security.

City of Tigard 2009 Annual Financial Report Presented to Council and Budget Committee

2010-04-08T12:40:00.000-07:00

Contact: Toby LaFrance
Director of Financial and Information Services
City of Tigard, Oregon
503 718 2406
toby@ci.tigard-or.gov

City of Tigard 2009 Annual Financial Report Presented to Council and Budget Committee

The City’s Comprehensive 2009 Annual Financial report was presented to the City Council and Budget committee on March 30, 2010 and reflects the challenge of most cities in the state; providing services to citizens when revenues aren’t keeping pace with the cost of providing those services.
Grove, Mueller, and Swank, (GMS) P.C. audited the city’s financial statements for the year ending June 30, 2009. Staff from the firm reviewed and tested transactions recorded by all departments within the city and gave the city an unqualified opinion on its financial statements. This is the highest mark granted on municipal audits. Internal controls over financial reporting were also reviewed and no deficiencies were noted. Tom Glogau, partner with GMS acknowledged that all departments in the city, without exception, had properly monitored expenses over the audit period.
In his presentation, Glogau advised that the city closely monitor the General Fund. As allowed under law, the city uses General Fund dollars for city services such as police, library, and parks that aren’t supported by fees or rates. About half of the General Fund comes from property taxes which are paid in November each year. Since the City’s financial year begins July 1, it’s important that the General Fund balance be sufficient to pay the cost of providing services until property taxes are collected in November.
Since the downturn in the economy, revenues have been flat at best with an increase in the cost of providing services which has the effect of reducing the General Fund balance. The City is currently developing the fiscal year 2010 – 11 budget in light of these issues.
Oregon Budget law requires the City Manager, serving as the City’s Budget Officer, submit a balanced budget to the Budget Committee for review. City Manager Craig Prosser will present his proposed budget to the Budget Committee at their first meeting scheduled for Monday evening May 3, 2010.

Seeing Cracks in last summer's street Slurry Seal?

2010-03-31T11:37:00.000-07:00

Seeing Cracks in last summer's street Slurry Seal? here's why:‏

The city recently heard from a resident of the Englewood neighborhood (near Hazelwood Loop) asking about cracks in the street within a year of the city’s application of a Slurry Seal to the street. Listed below is information from one of the city’s engineers about why that occurs. -Joanne

The cracks showing through new slurry seal is a normal occurrence and will be evident on all streets. This is because the asphalt pavement is flexible (compared to other paving materials), while slurry seal is more rigid. As heavier vehicles (such as garbage trucks) roll over the pavement, it flexes and the old cracks, even though they are sealed, transfer through the slurry seal and become visible again. This is not a problem because the underlying crack is sealed with flexible material that seals the pavement and extends the pavement life.

Eventually, along with the existing cracks, new cracks will appear that were too small to be seen when the cracks were sealed last year. This is a normal part of the pavement life. The advantage of the slurry seal is that the new cracks will take longer to develop, but they will still appear. These new cracks will be sealed as part of our routine crack seal program.

The main purpose of the slurry seal is to restore the pavement surface. As pavement ages, the cumulative effects of weather and vehicle usage causes deterioration of the asphalt binder (the sticky stuff that holds the road together) from the top down, resulting in widespread cracking if not treated. In a slurry seal, what looks like black paint is actually a blend of asphalt binder mixed with sand that restores the top layer of this sticky binder to seal and preserve the pavement and keep it lasting longer. It’s true that a street doesn’t look as good after a Slurry seal as it would after a thicker pavement overlay. However, as slurry seals cost much less than pavement overlays, we have found slurry seals to be a much better way to preserve and protect the pavement of our local streets, extending pavement life.

We inspected the contractors work as they apply the slurry seal to see that the slurry seal product was properly applied. We also inspect streets over the years to monitor pavement condition. This way we can monitor the results over time and evaluate that the project costs spent achieved the desired result. We will be monitoring the pavement condition in your neighborhood as part of the regular review. We are confident that the combination of deeper crack sealing (the work done before the seal was applied) and the slurry seal will extend the pavement’s useful life, but not forever.

Please feel free to contact me with any further questions.

Thank you,

Mike McCarthy

Correction to Phone Number for Mosquito Eating Gambusia fish...‏

2010-03-31T11:36:00.000-07:00

In the April Cityscape we asked residents to reduce the mosquito population in standing water on their property. One was to do that was by stocking outdoor ponds with mosquito eating fish called Gambusia. Residents of Washington County with ponds and outdoor water features can obtain Gambusia fish for free from the County. The correct number to call is 503-846-8722.

The online version of the April Cityscape has been reposted with the corrected WA County phone number.

http://www.tigard-or.gov/community/cityscape/docs/2010-04_Cityscape.pdf

Skatepark Improvements require short closure‏

2010-03-31T11:35:00.002-07:00

Dreamland Skate Parks, the folks who built our skate park, is going to be on site April 6-8 to make a repair and to add some features around the top deck of the park.

Here’s the temporary closure notice on the city's web site: http://www.tigard-or.gov/

If you have questions, please contact Martin McKnight, Supervisor, City of Tigard, Parks 503 718-2598

Tigard Earns Water Newsletter Award‏

2010-03-31T11:35:00.001-07:00

Tigard Public Works just learned that their customer newsletter, KNOW H2O, has just been awarded the Pacific Northwest Section of the American Water Works Association (PNWS – AWWA) Excellence in Communication & Conservation Award.

The (PNWS – AWWA) is a non-profit, organization representing water utilities and professionals from Oregon, Idaho and Washington. The newsletter was judged by nine professionals in the communication, education and conservation fields who ultimately awarded Tigard’s KNOW H2O the best Customer Newsletter by a medium utility. Although Tigard is no stranger to winning (Tigard’s conservation calendar has won the best medium utility calendar award six times in the past seven years), this is a first for the newsletter.

The award will be presented during the opening ceremonies of the annual PNWS – AWWA Spring Conference.

View the newsletter at: http://www.tigard-or.gov/city_hall/departments/water/docs/twsa_newsletter.pdf

Activity at the Wildlife Refuge‏

2010-03-29T18:28:00.000-07:00

What's Growing?---Guided Plant Walk

Sunday, April 25th, 1:00pm-3:00pm

Join Refuge Volunteer Botanist, Ginny Maffitt for spring and summer plant walks. Discover what’s blooming and how native plants are vital to healthy wildlife habitats. Be prepared to be outside. We encourage you to bring cameras, plant identification guides if you have them, and nature journals if you like. Binoculars are always handy for those “watchable wildlife” moments. Meet at Wildlife Center. For more information call Sarah at 503-625-5944 x 234.

All activities are free unless indicated otherwise and are held at Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge, 19255 SW Pacific Hwy, in Sherwood.

Tigard Celebrates Trees During April

2010-03-29T18:26:00.000-07:00

On March 23, 2010 Tigard’s Mayor Dirksen proclaimed April to be Arbor Month in the City of Tigard. Arbor Day is a nationally-celebrated observance that encourages tree planting and care. Nationally, Arbor Day is celebrated the last Friday of April. In Oregon, the first week of April is known as Oregon Arbor Week. In Tigard, City Council encourages citizens to celebrate trees during April.
Events are planned all month long. For more information, please see www.tigard-or.gov/trees and follow the link to Arbor Day. Highlights include:
• Tree Care Workshop - Introduction to Ornamental Tree Pruning
Wednesday, April 7 at 1:30, Library Community Room
Arborist Phil Hickey, with over 15 years of experience, will cover the basics of pruning ornamental trees, the different types of pruning techniques, how to make a proper pruning cut, and knowing how to prune select branches for good canopy structure and form.

• SOLV-IT EVENT: Mary Woodward Elementary Ivy Pull (12325 SW Katherine Street, Tigard)
Saturday, April 17, 2010, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. (Meet in the parking lot at the school)
Help us pull English Ivy from a new stream restoration site. For more information contact Carla Staedter at 503-718-2788 or carla@tigard-or.gov

• OMSI presents Forest Wonders at the Tigard Public Library
Tuesday, April 27, 6:00 and 7:30 p.m. (2 performances) Library Community Room | Free!
The program is open to children grades K-5. Registration is required and limited to 30 students per class. Contact Marissa Daniels at 503-718-2428 or marissa@tigard-or.gov to secure your spot.

An Arbor Day observance and proclamation are one of four standards established by the National Arbor Day Foundation to qualify for Tree City USA. This is the ninth year Tigard has received this recognition, and the city’s tenth Arbor Day celebration. More information about Tigard’s tree programs and policies can be found at www.tigard-or.gov/trees or read about the Tree City USA program at www.arborday.org/TreeCityUSA.

Tigard Police Participating In Oregon Special Olympics Fundraiser

2010-03-29T18:25:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, April 17th, a fundraiser to benefit Oregon Special Olympics will take place at the Red Robin Restaurant located at 10100 SW Washington Square Rd. in Tigard. The event is scheduled to take place from 11 am until 8 pm at the popular eating establishment found in Square Too.

Ten or more Tigard Officers will be participating in efforts to raise awareness and money to help support the Oregon Special Olympics. This event is considered to be one of the most essential fundraisers to help continue the important work of Oregon Special Olympics to provide year-round sports training and competition for children and adults with intellectual disabilities.

The event, fittingly titled “Tip-a-Cop,” is an opportunity for local law enforcement to help. Officers will assist wait staff throughout the day and find opportunity to speak to restaurant guests about the event and how they can help if interested. The high energy and fun environment typically lends itself to an even better experience while dining out. Both young and old will enjoy participating in the event.

Last year, Tigard Police and the Washington Square Red Robin location placed first amongst the entire state in the number of dollars collected to benefit Oregon Special Olympics. Tigard Police is hoping to clinch the number one berth again this year. Please consider stopping by and joining the worthwhile effort.

Metro Awarded the City of Tigard a $1 Million Grant

2010-03-29T18:24:00.000-07:00

Metro Awarded the City of Tigard a $1 Million Grant to Purchase the Summer Creek Property.
Metro awarded the City of Tigard a $1 million grant to assist with purchasing 43 acres of property known as the Summer Creek Property. This grant represents approximately 19% of the purchase price. This property is a high-profile natural area; it is considered the best remaining unprotected land in Tigard and will soon be the City's second largest park.

This site has functioned as an outdoor lab for students at Fowler Middle School. Now the environmental education programs will be expanded to include students throughout Washington County and the whole community with the help of several community partners.

“It is great to have Metro as a partner in the acquisition of the Summer Creek Property. This park, especially with its diverse natural areas, will be an asset to the whole community for years to come,” said Parks and Facilities Manager Steve Martin.

For more information, contact Tigard Public Works Director Dennis Koellermeier at 503-718-2596 or dennis@tigard-or.gov.

The March/April issue of Rider Insider

2010-03-29T18:23:00.002-07:00

In this issue: 5 dirty words we’re working to eliminate, taking TriMet to Portland’s parks and urban trails, tips on taking bikes on TriMet. More http://trimet.org/riderinsider/index.htm

TriMet adjusts proposal, public input

2010-03-29T18:23:00.001-07:00

Hi, WES team,

After the public hearing process, some adjustments we made to the proposed service changes. A news release is attached, more details at http://trimet.org/news/september2010proposal.htm

The next step is public hearings the first week of April. Please forward information to your constituents as you see fit.

Thank you.

PamWilson

Date Change for Balloon Festival‏

2010-03-29T18:17:00.000-07:00

Mark your calendars, the Tigard Festival of Balloons is scheduled for June 25-27 this year, the last weekend of the month.

For many, many years it has been held on Father’s Day Weekend. For general information on the Tigard Festival of Balloons, click here Tigard Festival of Balloons

Tigard Farmers Market notice‏

2010-03-29T18:12:00.000-07:00

Tigard Farmers Market is looking for a volunteer interested in coordinating its' demo programs on things like gardening, landscaping, food preservation, bee keeping, etc.

Check out www.tigardfarmersmarket.com and/or contact Marland Henderson at 503-329-0159 or contact the market at 503-639-2900 for more information.

Hall Blvd crosswalk light

2010-03-29T18:11:00.000-07:00

Great News from Engineering!‏
The Hall Blvd crosswalk light was officially turned on by ODOT this afternoon (3/18/10). ODOT has tested the light, set the timing and has finally approved it. Chad Gordon, ODOT Assistant District Manager, will look over the light in the next few days to ensure proper operation. Chad will contact me or Zen if there are any issues with the system.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Vannie Nguyen, Project Engineer

City of Tigard

503-718-2460

vannie@tigard-or.gov

Beaverton school district boundary changes

2010-03-29T18:10:00.000-07:00

Thank you to West Tigard web administrator, Pauline for her link to the info about boundary changes in the Beaverton School District that may impact some of the children in Tigard. According to the Beaverton SD site, parents should call 503-591-8000 to confirm which school your child will attend. http://www.beaverton.k12.or.us/home/district/attendance-area-information/

Boundary changes for Hiteon, Nancy Ryles, Sexton Mountain, and Scholls Heights elementary schools were approved by the Beaverton School Board on December 14, 2009.

There are NO boundary changes to middle or high schools for the 2010-11 school year.

PGE construction crews in and near Downtown‏

2010-03-18T11:41:00.001-07:00

FYI – PGE construction crews are working in and near the Downtown area. They are relocating lines and poles and laying new conduit in preparation for the Pacific Hwy / Hall / Greenburg / Main project. They are currently working in the area of Main, Commercial, Center, and Tigard Streets and around the Pacific Hwy viaduct.

Our inspectors are on site to make sure the work is done appropriately and community impacts are minimized.

That’s correct – we’ve reached the milestone of actual construction crews physically out there working on infrastructure in conjunction with this project. Contractor bids are due to the County March 24th – next Thursday – with the main contractor expected to begin work in early May.

TVF&R Chief Jeff Johnson Announces Retirement‏

2010-03-18T11:40:00.000-07:00

Date: March 17, 2010 12:05:31 PM PDT
Subject: My Retirement/New Fire Chief

Greetings.

Last night the TVF&R Board of Directors took action on two issues that will impact our organization in the months ahead.

First, I submitted—and our Board accepted—my Fire Chief Separation Agreement. This agreement formalizes my intent to retire as TVF&R’s Fire Chief effective August 31, 2010. This action is the culmination of a succession plan that began many years ago in anticipation of the retirements of TVF&R’s executive staff. Since that time the District has been promoting and integrating individuals to key positions to ensure continuity of leadership and organizational success.

On that note, our Board’s second action last night was to appoint TVF&R Deputy Chief Mike Duyck as TVF&R’s Fire Chief effective September 1, 2010. I could not be more excited about the Board’s decision and trust in Mike Duyck’s ability to lead TVF&R. Since July 2009 Chief Duyck has been responsible for the command and administration of TVF&R in my absence while serving as IAFC President. His 15 years of service with TVF&R includes all ranks within Emergency Services from Firefighter to Deputy Chief. He also has experience on the support side of the organization including logistics, fleet services, human resources, and governmental affairs.

Between now and September 1st, the Board of Directors will work to finalize the terms of a contract with Chief Duyck, and the District will continue the steps of a smooth and orderly transition. During that time, I will retain command and control of TVF&R, while Chief Duyck continues to manage all day-to-day operations. As September nears, we will make the details of a formal ceremony known.

It has been my greatest honor to have served 15 years as the Fire Chief of one of the nation’s top fire and rescue agencies. I could not be more excited about the Board’s decision and trust in Chief Duyck’s ability to lead TVF&R’s next generation of firefighters and staff. I have no doubt that he and his team will take TVF&R to the next level of excellence and innovation.

Best Regards,

Chief Jeff Johnson

Library Program Offers Wii™ Games For Boomers and Seniors

2010-03-18T11:39:00.000-07:00

The Tigard Library invites baby boomers and seniors to join their peers at the debut event of a Wii™ Sports series on Monday, April 12 from 2 to 3:30 p.m. in the Community Room. Participants can learn how to bowl, golf, play tennis or baseball with the Wii™ gaming system or play more traditional games. They only need the ability to swing their arm while holding a small game controller.
The program is part of the Minds at Play, a year-long gaming series for people of all ages sponsored by a grant. The series will provide opportunities for patrons to enhance their technology skills while socializing and engaging in some friendly competition.
Other gaming events in April include a Teen Game Fest with Dance Dance Revolution™, Guitar Hero®, Twister® and other games on Wednesday, April 7 from 5 to 7 p.m. in the Community Room. A Teen Survivor: Library Edition event will provide teens with an evening of team competition, food challenges, trivia games and scavenger hunts on Thursday, April 22 from 5 to 7 p.m. in the Puett Room.
The April gaming events wind up with a Family Game Fest that will allow the whole family to get in on the fun on Friday, April 23 from 4 to 6 p.m. in the Community Room. Gaming in the library is a tradition that began in the 19th century. Librarians learned that inviting patrons to play games was an effective way to build community, while helping people learn to use the library.
For information, please call the Library at 503-684-6537 or visit the Library’s Web page at www.tigard-or.gov/library and click on Adult, Teen or Kids Programs. Minds at Play is supported in whole or part by the Institute of Museum and Library Services through the Library Services and Technology Act, administered by the Oregon State Library.

2010-03-18T11:36:00.000-07:00

The Potso Dog Park at Hunziker (behind the Coe Manufacturing building) is now open during the week.
FYI: Potso will be open beginning Monday March 15th during the week from 4PM to Dusk. Enjoy!!!

Flashing Yellow Arrow Signals Construction

2010-03-12T11:41:00.000-08:00

Construction has begun on the ARRA stimulus-funded project to install ‘flashing yellow arrow’ left turn signals at many intersections throughout Tigard. These signals show a flashing yellow arrow allowing drivers to turn left when there are gaps in opposing traffic and no pedestrians in the crosswalk. Drivers were previously stuck waiting at a red arrow.

The contractor has begun installation of these signals on 72nd Avenue, and will be moving to Durham Road next. When they are working on a particular intersection, they will need to close the left turn lane at that intersection for a few hours, which will result in some traffic delays during the installation. This project will include some signals on Pacific Hwy 99W, which will be installed at night to minimize traffic disruption.

Once the contractor finishes installing the signal hardware, it will take a few weeks to reprogram the signal timing before the flashing yellow arrows will be turned on. We are looking forward to spending less time waiting at red arrows, while still keeping a good level of safety.

The intersections are:
Major Street Cross Street
72nd Ave Upper Boones Ferry Rd (northern)
72nd Ave Upper Boones Ferry Rd (southern)
72nd Ave Hampton St
72nd Ave Park and Ride / Bridgeport Village
Dartmouth St Costco Driveway
Durham Rd Summerfield Dr
Durham Rd 92nd Ave
Durham Rd Hall Blvd / 85th Ave
Durham Rd Upper Boones Ferry Rd
Greenburg Rd Tiedeman Ave
Greenburg Rd Cascade Ave
Hall Blvd McDonald St
Hall Blvd Bonita Rd
Hall Blvd Oak St
Hall Blvd Sattler St / Ross St
Main St Scoffins St
Pacific Hwy 99W Main St / Johnson St
Pacific Hwy 99W Walnut St
Pacific Hwy 99W Park St
Pacific Hwy 99W Shopping Center Driveway
Pacific Hwy 99W Canterbury Ln
Pacific Hwy 99W Gaarde St / McDonald St
Walnut St 121st Ave

For more information, please visit our website at: http://www.tigard-or.gov/city_hall/departments/engineering/construction/other/small_fix.asp, contact Tigard Senior Project Engineer Mike McCarthy at 503-718-2462 or mikem@tigard-or.gov, or Washington County Lead Inspector Nancy Newcomb at 503-969-2716 for site-specific construction issues.

April Cityscape Contest‏

2010-03-12T11:40:00.001-08:00

You may remember that in January we ran a contest in Cityscape encouraging residents in each neighborhood network area to log onto their site and leave a comment or question. A drawing was done and winners received a $50 gift card to Starbucks. The whole idea is to get residents to log on and raise awareness of them as a community resource.

Well, I’d like to do another contest in the April edition of Cityscape…but this time, ask residents to log onto their neighborhood blog and tell you (or show you with a photo!) what residents like best about their neighborhood area. Or ask folks to submit a photograph that illustrates why their neighborhood is A Place to Call Home.

This time we could award a $50 certificate (1 in each neighborhood area) to ice cream or some other spring idea…but I received an excellent suggestion to give away a gift certificate to Gardener’s Choice nursery on 99W.

What do you think??

Does this sound ok to you? Would you like to ask a different question or seek a different comment? Would you like a certificate to somewhere else? If you have any input to pass on, please feel free to do so! I’ll need your comments by March 15.

American Recovery & Reinvestment Act funding...

2010-03-12T11:39:00.000-08:00

Tigard Library Will Feature Sarangi Performance

2010-03-12T11:38:00.000-08:00

The Tigard Public Library presents a performance of the sarangi, a unique stringed instrument, on Saturday, April 3 at 2 p.m. Rose Okada will demonstrate the bowed instrument, which is played in northern India, Nepal and Pakistan.
The sarangi has three bowed strings and about 35 metal sympathetic strings to create a rich, resonant tone. The instrument is known as “the voice of a hundred colors” and is said to have the full expressive range of a human voice. The performance also includes accompaniment on tabla drums and tambura.
The free event will be held in the Houghton Room on the second floor of the Library. More information is available by calling the Library at 503-684-6537 and requesting the Adult Reference Desk or at Adult Events on the Web page at http://www.tigard-or.gov/library .

Tigard Library Book Groups

2010-03-12T11:37:00.000-08:00

Tigard Library Book Groups Will Discuss

Mystery Abroad and Time Travel in April

A mystery that leaves clues throughout Europe during World War II and a novel about time travel will be featured in the Tigard Library book groups in April. The Library welcomes readers to join in the discussion at either of the book groups.

The morning book group will discuss Rennie Airth’s The Dead of Winter on Tuesday, April 13, at 10:30 a.m. As World War II rages, an ex-Scotland Yard inspector follows clues throughout Europe to track down the killer of his employee. The twists and turns lead to the discovery of the connection between the deceased Polish girl, a murdered Parisian furrier, a member of the Resistance and stolen diamonds.

The evening book group will take readers on a trip to the past with The Little Book by Selden Edwards on Wednesday, April 28 at 7 p.m. The exiled son of a prominent Boston family is living in 1988 San Francisco until he is mysteriously transported to 1897 Vienna, where he meets Sigmund Freud and other notables of the time.

The groups meet in the Grace Tigard Houghton Room on the second floor of the Library. For more information, please call the Library at 503-684-6537 and request the Adult Reference Desk, or visit the Library’s web page at: http://www.tigard-or.gov/library/

2010-03-12T11:36:00.000-08:00

Travel on a Shoestring

2010-03-12T11:35:00.000-08:00

Tigard featured in magazine: Travel on a Shoestring

The new Travel on a Shoestring magazine has three Tigard related articles:

· Light rail into the past and make new friends in Tigard

· Forbidden Broadway Lampoons musicals at Broadway Rose Theatre

· Bub’s Brews highlights the Fanno Creek Brewpub

(I’ve attached the articles – and although I know the format doesn’t work for your blog, I thought you might like to see it! I’ve got a call in to the web team to see if they’re planning to host it on the city’s web site. Stay tuned!)

News from Clean Water Services: “Getting up to seed”

2010-03-12T11:34:00.000-08:00

Looking for beautiful, drought tolerant plants that require fewer chemicals and protect water quality? Visit a native plant sale to get started.

Small Woodlands Native Plant Sale
Saturday, March 13, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Bales Thriftway, Aloha

Green Gardening Fair & Native Plant Sale
Saturday, April 10, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
THPRD Nature Park

Use our Native Plant Finder to decide which plants will suit your landscape before you go and get a free poster to help identify species.

2010-03-12T11:33:00.000-08:00

Arbor Day is coming and Tigard celebrates throughout the entire month! Log on to the Arbor Day site to learn about the history of the event. http://www.arborday.org/arborday/history.cfm

Or consider the following events in our city:

Attend an Arbor Day Event:

Ø OMSI presents Forest Wonders at the Tigard Public Library

§ Tuesday, April 27, 1 Hour Program at 6:00 and 7:30 p.m. in the Tigard Public Library Community Room, grades K-5. Free! Registration Required: Please contact Marissa Daniels at 503-718-2428 or marissa@tigard-or.gov to register.

Ø Tigard Tree Board Meeting

§ April 12, 6:30 pm in the Tigard Public Library Second Floor Conference Room

Ø City Council Meeting – Tree Stewardship Awards

§ Every year the City of Tigard presents Tree Stewardship Awards to individuals, businesses, or organizations who contribute to our city’s beautiful urban forest or a broader community understanding of the proper care and benefit of trees. Winners will be honored at the April 13, 2009, City Council Meeting. If you would like more information, please contact Marissa Daniels at 503-718-2428 or marissa@tigard-or.gov.

Ø Tree Care Workshop - Introduction to Ornamental Tree Pruning

§ Wednesday, April 7, at 1:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 7, from 2-3:30 p.m. in the Library Community Room - Arborist Phil Hickey, an ISA Board Certified Master Arborist and an ASCA Registered Consulting Arborist with over 15 years of experience, will cover the basics of pruning ornamental trees, the different types of pruning techniques, how to make a proper pruning cut, and knowing how to prune select branches for good canopy structure and form. The class will also cover the do's and don'ts of ornamental pruning and knowing when it's best to hire a professional for the job.

Ø Mary Woodward Ivy Pull

§ Saturday, April 17, 2010, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. meet in the parking lot at the elementary school. This invasive non-native plant species must be removed to assure that newly installed native plants will thrive free from competition. For more information contact Carla Staedter at (503) 718-2788 or carla@tigard-or.gov.

2010-03-12T11:32:00.002-08:00

2010-03-12T11:32:00.001-08:00

2010-03-12T11:31:00.000-08:00

The Governor’s office has instructed public institutions to fly flags at half-staff from sunrise on Tuesday, March 9th to sunset on Sunday, March 14th, 2010 in honor of Ben Westlund, Oregon State Treasurer, who passed away this weekend.

2010-03-12T11:30:00.000-08:00

Child Safety Seat guidelines from Tigard PD‏

2010-03-12T11:27:00.000-08:00

Oregon’s Child Occupant Protection Laws

Child Restraint Law: Child passengers must be restrained in approved child safety seats until they weigh 40 pounds. Infants must ride rear facing until they reach both one year of age AND 20 pounds.

Booster Seat Law: Children over 40 pounds must use a booster seat until they are age 8 OR 4'9" in height.

Safety Belts: A child taller than 4'9" OR age 8 or older must be properly secured with the vehicle's safety belt. The child is properly secured if the lap belt is positioned low across the thighs and the shoulder belt is positioned over the collarbone and away from the neck. The failure to properly use safety belts or child restraints is a Class D traffic violation with a $142.00 fine—ORS 811.210 and ORS 815.055, effective October 1, 2009.

National “Best Practice” Recommendations

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) advises:

1. Children should ride rear facing in their child safety seat until they reach the upper height or weight limit of the seat.

2. Children under age 13 should ride in the back seat, which reduces the risk of crash injury by 37%.

3. Children riding in a forward facing child safety seat with a harness, should remain in that seat until they reach the upper height and weight limits of the seat before graduating to a booster seat.

Additional “Best Practice” Suggestions

· Attend a check-up event or meet with a child passenger safety technician to make sure children are riding safely—visit www.childsafetyseat.org for a calendar of events or call.

· Refer to your child safety seat manufacturer's manual and the car seat information in your vehicle owner's manual for specific details.

Rear Facing: Never place a rear facing child in front of an active frontal air bag.

Forward Facing: Use the top tether when possible.

Booster: Continue riding in a booster seats until the lap and shoulder safety belt fit properly, even if age 8 or older or taller

than 4'9" in height.

When is my child ready to ride in a safety belt?

1. Is the child tall enough to sit with their back against the vehicle seat back?

2.Do the child's knees bend comfortably at the edge of the vehicle seat?

3.Does the belt cross the shoulder over the collarbone?

4. Is the lap belt low, touching the thighs?

5. Can the child stay seated like this for the whole trip?

A “No” answer means the child needs a booster seat for best protection.

503-643-5620

800-772-1315

www.childsafetyseat.org

Drop, Cover, Hold On

2010-03-12T11:00:00.002-08:00

This week’s 8.8 magnitude earthquake in Chile is a reminder that we, also, live in an earthquake hazard zone. Would you know what to do if the ground started shaking right now?

When you feel an earthquake, DROP to the ground. Stay away from windows, bookcases, pictures and mirrors, hanging plants and other heavy objects that may fall. Beware of falling materials such as plaster, ceiling tiles and bricks that may come loose during the quake. Seek COVER under a sturdy piece of furniture like a desk or table, and stay there until the shaking stops. HOLD ON to the desk or table that you are under and if it moves, move with it.

DROP, COVER & HOLD TIPS
If you are not near a table or desk, move against an interior wall, and protect your head with your arms. Do not go into a doorway! Not only can the shaking cause the door to
swing shut forcefully, but many interior door frames are not load-bearing.

§ HIGH-RISE BUILDINGS – Stay away from the elevators and don’t be surprised if the fire alarm and/or sprinkler systems come on.

§ OUTDOORS – Move to a clear area away from buildings, poles, power lines, signs, and trees.

§ NEAR BUILDINGS – Beware of falling bricks, glass, plaster and other debris. Duck into an entryway and protect your head with your arms.

§ DRIVING – Pull to the side of the road and stop. Avoid overpasses, power lines, and other hazards. Stay inside the vehicle until the shaking is over.

§ STORE OR OTHER PUBLIC PLACE – Do not rush for the exit. Move away from shelves and displays that may fall over or contain objects that could fall on you, then drop,
cover, and hold on.

§ WHEELCHAIR – If you are in a wheelchair, stay in it. Move to cover, if possible (i.e., an interior wall), lock your wheels, and protect your head with your arms.

§ KITCHEN – Move away from the refrigerator, stove and overhead cupboards, then drop, cover, and hold on. [Have you anchored appliances and installed security latches on
cupboards to reduce hazards? Check out our information on non-structural mitigation.]

§ THEATER OR STADIUM – If possible, get on the floor between the rows and cover your head with your arms, otherwise stay in your seat and protect your head with your arms.
Do not try to leave until the shaking stops; then leave in an orderly manner.

Tigard Library Will Host Program on Travel in Europe

2010-03-12T11:00:00.001-08:00

The Tigard Library will host a travel presentation: “What’s New in the Old World?” on Tuesday, March 16 at 7 p.m. Julie Blackman, of the travel agency Focus on Travel, will discuss new approaches to travel in Europe, including river cruising, rail vacations, and fresh tips for off-the-beaten path adventures.
This program is suitable for first-time, as well as seasoned, European travelers. It is the first of four monthly programs on travel opportunities that the Tigard Library will host in the next few months. The program will be held in the Community Room. For more information, please call the Library at 503-684-6537 or visit the Library’s Web page at http://www.tigard-or.gov/library and click on Adult Events.

Tigard Library To Host Program on Home Medical Services

2010-03-12T10:58:00.000-08:00

On Wednesday, March 17 at 2:30 p.m., the Tigard Library will host a presentation on home medical services. Kevin Call of Adeo In-Home Care will explain the range of services available for seniors to help them remain in their own homes for as long as possible. Seniors and their families are invited to learn about existing options.
This is the third of four monthly seminars about senior citizens’ independence. The program will be held in the Conference Room. For more information, please call the Library at 503-684-6537 or visit the Library’s Web page at http://www.tigard-or.gov/library and click on Adult Events.

New Bridge to Honor Former City Councilor Tom Woodruff

2010-03-12T10:57:00.000-08:00

The City of Tigard will celebrate the grand opening of the new Woodruff Bridge over Fanno Creek at 1:30 p.m. on Tuesday, March 23.
The festivities will begin at the Tigard Public Library gazebo. Mayor Craig Dirksen will then lead a walk over the bridge for a dual celebration of the new pedestrian bridge and the arrival of spring.
The bridge has been named "Woodruff Bridge" in honor of Tom Woodruff who served on the Tigard City Council from 2004 to 2008. Woodruff was the Tigard Council representative to the Parks and Recreation board, the Metropolitan Area Communications Commission, the Willamette River Water Coalition and the Water Consortium. He was also the Council liaison to the Tigard Beyond Tomorrow Task Force and to the negotiations of the Tigard/Lake Oswego Water Partnership Intergovernmental Agreement.
The bridge and a new lighted crosswalk give residents a safer way to travel across Hall Boulevard to the Tigard Public Library. Walkers and bicyclists can now trek nearly 1.5 miles (from Main Street to Fanno Creek Drive) without leaving the Fanno Creek Trail. The bridge and a boardwalk connect the existing trail from the west side of Hall Boulevard to the new trail on the east.
Both projects promote the ongoing efforts of the City to enhance public safety through off-street pathways while ensuring habitat-friendly development.

Celebrate Teen Tech Week @ the Tigard Public Library

2010-03-12T10:51:00.000-08:00

Teen Tech Week is Sunday, March 7-Saturday, March 13. The Tigard Public Library will celebrate with a series of free events that encourage teens to explore diverse uses of technology, from button making to self- publishing.
Teens in grades 6-12 can get a jump on Teen Tech Week with Button Making on Saturday, March 6 from 2-4 p.m. Participants will create their own buttons in a variety sizes using either original art or designs provided by the library. Registration is required for the Teen Movie Making Project on Sunday, March 7 from 1-5 p.m., where teens will write, film and edit their own movies.
The highlight of the week will be the Sing-Along Blog on Thursday, March 11 from 5-7 p.m. in the Community Room. Musical sing-alongs on the big screen will be accompanied by a lip-synching contest. Participants are welcome to join the audience or bring music CDs for the lip-synching competition. Pop or rock star attire is encouraged, but not required, and the most divine diva or dashing crooner will win a prize.
The Teen Tech Week celebration concludes with Teen Pizzine on Saturday, March 13 from noon-1:30 p.m., when teens can create the library’s spring zine while munching on pizza. For information and registration, please call the Library at 503-684-6537 or visit the Library’s Web page at www.tigard-or.gov/library and click on Teen Programs.

Metro Approves Urb & Rural Reserves (a note from David Bragdon)‏

2010-02-27T16:13:00.000-08:00

Dear Friend,
Today marks a historic moment for our region - one that will set us on a course for the next half century and provide a legacy for our children and grandchildren. Our region's leaders came together to protect more than 272,100 acres of valuable farmland, forestland and natural resources for current and future generations to enjoy. And we reached agreement on nearly 28,100 acres of urban reserves located in areas that will best support the jobs and housing necessary to sustain great communities.

Today the Metro Council voted to adopt intergovernmental agreements with Clackamas, Multnomah and Washington counties to designate urban and rural reserves for the next 50 years. Each of the three county boards of commissioners also voted to adopt these agreements this week.

It has taken more than two years and an unprecedented amount of collaboration not only among the four governments, but with other local governments, the business community, farmers, environmental and land use advocates, neighborhood leaders and other residents to reach this milestone. No other metropolitan region in the country has ever attempted this.

Unlike the gridlock affecting our federal government, your local leaders worked together to get results. Combined with the region's recent decision to shift more of its transportation budget to projects that make the most of our existing roads and bridges, these proposals represent a concerted effort to act now on investments that will make our region a great place.

As historic as this achievement is, our work is not done. We need to refocus our efforts on how we can best invest in attracting more jobs and residents to our existing communities inside the urban growth boundary. Metro, local governments and the private sector need to work more strategically to invest limited public resources more wisely and encourage greater private investment in the communities we already call home. By focusing public and private investments in our existing cities and town centers, along transportation corridors and near places where people work, the proposals will help protect farms and forests. In addition, they help protect and improve land currently designated for new and growing employers and provide incentives to clean up dilapidated and contaminated lots to make our neighborhoods safer and provide sites for new jobs and houses.

Only if we do all these things can we ensure a strong economy, a healthy environment and great communities that serve the needs of all. Please stay involved as we continue taking important steps to invest in our future.

www.oregonmetro.gov/planningnews

Best regards,

David Bragdon
Metro Council President

Metro
600 NE Grand Ave.
Portland, OR 97232-2736
503-797-1700
503-797-1804 TDD
503-797-1797 fax

City of Tigard Hires New City Engineer

2010-02-27T16:10:00.000-08:00

The City of Tigard is pleased to announce that Ted Kyle has accepted the position of City Engineer effective March 1, 2010. He has been the Acting City Engineer since September 15, 2009.

Mr. Kyle brings with him extensive engineering and construction experience. He has over 30 years of experience in public works related engineering and construction program management, including work as a civil engineer design professional and program manager for large construction programs. His background includes serving as a field engineer on a large water treatment plant for a top 10 construction contractor. His wide range of experience with all facets of public works project delivery will benefit the citizens of Tigard through more effective project design and construction practices.

“I am thrilled to have Ted Kyle on board as the City’s new City Engineer,” said Craig Prosser, City Manager. “This is a key position helping the City to provide quality public construction projects necessary to serving the citizens of Tigard. Ted has the know-how and drive to get the job done, and we are fortunate to have him.”

For more information, contact Tigard Public Works Director Dennis Koellermeier at 503-718-2596 or dennis@tigard-or.gov.

tri-met open house for comments on proposed service cuts

2010-02-27T16:09:00.001-08:00

The Beaverton open house the closest to Tigard. The others are Downtown Portland and Happy Valley. -Joanne

Proposed service cuts effective September 2010

TriMet is holding informational open houses about proposed service cuts that would take effect in September 2010. We are seeking comments from the public prior to refining and finalizing the proposed cuts.

Times and locations are listed below. These are information sessions designed to answer any questions you might have. If you can't attend in person, you can send us your feedback by our feedback form, phone or mail. (Please submit your comments by 5 p.m., Friday, April 23, 2010.)

Wednesday, March 3, 2010, 4:30-6:30 p.m.

Beaverton Community Center
12350 SW 5th Street, Suite 100
Beaverton, OR 97005

Plan a trip to this meeting

Senator Merkley is holding a Town Hall‏

2010-02-21T08:09:00.002-08:00

U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley

Washington County Town Hall

Sunday, February 28, 2010

6p.m

Sherwood High School

In The Commons

16956 SW Meinecke Rd.

Sherwood, OR 97140

Get Directions

-

Category:

Unverified listing

Bring your issues, questions, and suggestions.

Please join us!

PGE seeks price changes beginning January 2011

2010-02-21T08:09:00.001-08:00

As we plan for Oregon’s energy future, it’s important to keep you, our customers and stakeholders, informed about significant issues. So I wanted to let you know Portland General Electric has asked the Oregon Public Utility Commission to begin a comprehensive review of PGE’s costs of providing service and to approve new customer prices to take effect in January 2011. Today’s filing begins a 10-month public process designed to review our request for an overall price increase of 7.4 percent.

The decision to seek a price adjustment was not one we took lightly, especially considering the current economic environment. At the same time, we can’t ignore needed investments in new energy resources to meet the growing demand for electricity, as well as critical system maintenance investments necessary to continue to provide safe, reliable energy and services that meet our customers’ expectations.

If, after a thorough examination of PGE’s costs and analysis, the commission approves our request, a typical residential customer will see a monthly bill increase of about $6.70. The combined average price change for large commercial and industrial customers would be 5.4 percent. Impacts will vary by individual rate schedules.

About half of the requested amount will be spent on system investments to meet the growing energy demands of the region, including:

Phase III of PGE’s Biglow Canyon Wind Farm project, which will help meet the state’s requirement that PGE derive 25 percent of its electricity from renewable resources by the year 2025.
Federally-mandated improvements at our hydroelectric facilities on the Clackamas River, which will allow customers to continue to count on these low-cost hydro resources for decades to come.
The request also includes both capital costs and operational savings stemming from completion of a new network of smart meters. The remainder of the request reflects operating costs PGE must incur to support continued and future excellence in customer service; maintain safe, efficient and effective operations; and address new regulatory requirements. It also addresses needed updates to our information technology systems and rising health insurance premiums for employees.

There were a number of factors that helped keep our proposed increase as low as possible. These include the lower price of natural gas, which will help reduce costs for wholesale power and fuel purchases, as well as ongoing company efforts to reduce costs and find ways to serve our customers more efficiently.

As I mentioned, this is a lengthy process. My commitment to you is to keep you informed along the way and make sure we provide the necessary information to address any questions or concerns you may have. If you are interested in learning more about this issue, I invite you to read our news release and a Q&A (PDF) that provides more details. We’ve also prepared a video that we’re making available for customers who visit us at PortlandGeneral.com.

On behalf of PGE and our 2,700 employees, I want to thank you for the opportunity to continue our ongoing dialogue about issues of importance to you, our customers and our state.

Jim Piro
President and CEO

You're invited to the westside premiere of "Wetlands, Seasons of Mind"

2010-02-16T17:05:00.000-08:00

Saturday, March 6 at 3 p.m.
Tigard Joy Theatre
11959 SW Pacific Highway

Meet artist Deborah DeWit and director Carl Vandervoort and enjoy a special welcome by Washington County Commissioners Andy Duyck and Dick Schouten, Tigard Mayor Craig Dirksen and community leaders. Clean Water Services sponsored the project about wetlands it has restored to encourage appreciation of precious water resources in popular urban settings. The film will also be shown on March 7 at 3 p.m. Admission is $7.50. Please invite friends and colleagues.

Learn more at wetlandsdocumentary.com

A film about art and the environment produced by Deborah DeWit and Carl Vandervoort, directed by Carl Vandervoort, music directed by Jim Leisy.

Funded in part by Clean Water Services and Regional Arts & Culture Council.

Tigard Times news article about the movie and project.

Tigard Library Introduces Minds at Play Gaming Program

2010-02-12T16:14:00.001-08:00

In March, the Tigard Public Library will begin Minds at Play, a year-long series of gaming programs for people of all ages. A gaming open house will kick off the program on Saturday, March 13 and Saturday, March 20 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Library lobby. The Library invites everyone to stop by and try out Wii™ bowling and Guitar Hero®. Those who roll a strike will win a donut while supplies last.
The library won a state grant to purchase new gaming equipment, such as Wii™, Playstation® and Xbox™ game consoles, as well as more traditional board games. The gaming series will provide opportunities for patrons to enhance their technology skills while socializing and engaging in some friendly competition.
The series will explore all types of games from bingo to online computer games and encourages game players from beginners to experts to participate. Other events include a March Teen Game Fest on Thursday, March 18, and a Wii™ Sports for Boomers and Seniors series beginning in April.
Gaming in the library is a tradition that began in the 19th century. Librarians learned that inviting patrons to play games was an effective way to build community, while helping people learn to use the library. If having fun with new friends is not enough of an incentive, Minds at Play participants can enter a prize drawing after attending several gaming events and completing a Level Up! card.
For information, please call the Library at 503-684-6537 or visit the Library’s Web page at www.tigard-or.gov/library and click on Adult, Teen or Kids Programs. Minds at Play is supported in whole or part by the Institute of Museum and Library Services through the Library Services and Technology Act, administered by the Oregon State Library.

Green Resource from Metro‏

2010-02-12T12:48:00.000-08:00

I want to let you know about a free community resource primarily sponsored by Metro that is available to all area residents and businesses.

Going Green and Saving Resources

Looking for effective ways to save money on utility bills?

Where jobs and training in sustainability are posted?

How to go about to hiring an eco-friendly contractor?

Where to donate used building materials for a tax-donation?

Receive green home design ideas for little or no cash?

Where you can attend a free class to build a rain garden?

How to make your home elderly-friendly and wheelchair accessible?

Which local green programs and incentives are available to you?

Try this FREE service from Metro | City of Portland|Multnomah | Clackamas | Washington Counties:

Regional Green Building Hotline

A service of the Green Development Resource Center

503.823.5431 http://www.buildgreen411.com greenhotline@ci.portland.or.us

Follow us: Facebook | Green Development Resource Center Twitter | @greenhotline

Best wishes,

Valerie Garrett LEED AP

Coordinator

503-823-5431

2010 Artists for Children of the World -- March 6 & 7

2010-02-12T12:45:00.000-08:00

@ 11535 SW Durham Rd #C5 Tigard, OR 97224 (Admission by Donation)‏
Admission by donation. www.artists-forchildren.org

The 2010 Artists for Children of the World benefit event contributes to world peace by supporting relationships, education, and counseling to poor children, widows and orphans all over the world. Good Samaritan Ministries, based in Beaverton, Oregon, provides donation-based lifetime development and counseling to hundreds annually without regard to race, religion, gender or nationality, and is guided by the adage, “Go and do likewise.”

The 2010 Artists for Children of the World Event honors Megan Garcia, Artist

Hello,

Announcement of our art show scheduled March 6 & 7, 2010. My hope is that you will be able attend the show. If you have experienced our other shows, you know they are fun, the food is good and art is offered in a broad price range. We believe everyone should have an opportunity to have something beautiful. Come, bring friends, enjoy!

Will you help us to spread the word of the show by forwarding this e-mail to your friends, families and colleagues? All funds raised pay for services to poor children, orphans and widows.

Thank you and best wishes

In association with Good Samaritan Ministries

www.gsmusa.org

Tigard Seeks Exemplary Citizens

2010-02-11T17:24:00.000-08:00

The Tigard City Council is putting out a call for nominations for the annual Exemplary Citizenship Award. “The award recognizes the efforts of Tigard’s hard working volunteers, whether they’re individuals, organizations, neighborhoods or businesses, who help make our city ‘a place to call home,’” according to Tigard Mayor Craig Dirksen. “We’re looking for those who have dedicated their time and energy to help make Tigard such a wonderful place to live, work and play.”

Award recipients are chosen for their service in implementing or helping with an outstanding project, program or service; enriching and revitalizing our community or neighborhoods; demonstrating responsiveness, creativity and civic values or promoting cross-cultural awareness.

The winner will be honored at the Tigard Chamber of Commerce annual Shining Star Community Awards Banquet on April 16. Nominations are due at the Tigard City Hall, 13125 SW Hall Boulevard, Tigard, Oregon 97223, by 5 pm, March 15.

Forms are available at the Tigard City Hall, Library and Public Works lobbies. They can also be downloaded from the Tigard web site, www.tigard-or.gov. For more information, please contact, or Dianna Weston, 503-718-2402, diannaw@tigard-or.gov or Liz Newton, 503-718-2412, liz@tigard-or.gov.

Service cuts proposed: 4 bus lines discontinued, frequency reductions on buses and MAX‏

2010-02-11T17:20:00.000-08:00

Due to the continued economic recession and declining payroll tax revenues, TriMet must cut its Fiscal Year 2011 budget by $27 million, which includes a 5 percent administrative cut, a salary and hiring freeze, reductions to bus and MAX service, and a five-cent fare increase.

Our proposed service cuts, which would take effect in September, include discontinuation of 4 bus lines and frequency reductions on buses and MAX.

Today, we begin a three-month comment and refinement phase where the public can help shape the final service cut plan

Learn more about the proposed cuts and how you can provide your feedback

Subscribe/unsubscribe | Change your account settings

How to Survive a Heart Attack

2010-02-11T16:55:00.000-08:00

Posted: 09 Feb 2010 03:44 PM PST

Heart disease is the number one killer in the United States and, more and more often, TVF&R’s firefighters are called upon to help people suffering from a heart attack or sudden cardiac arrest. February is National Heart Month and TVF&R wants to remind you that you can help save a life if someone nearby suffers a heart attack.

Most heart attacks happen at home. A heart attack is much different than sudden cardiac arrest. A heart attack can begin so slowly or mildly that a person is unaware of what he or she is experiencing. Symptoms include:

§ Chest discomfort lasting more than a few minutes or goes away and returns (may feel like uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness, or pain);

§ Upper body discomfort such as pain or discomfort, in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw, or stomach;

§ Shortness of breath

§ Sweating, nausea, or lightheadedness.

If you experience these symptoms – don’t delay; call 9-1-1 right away! Let us assess your situation and get you in the system! Time is crucial. The heart is a muscle and it deteriorates with each passing minute from the onset of a heart attack until treatment. Every TVF&R unit carries a cardiac monitor with 12 lead EKG capabilities. Our paramedics are able to diagnose if the heart is failing and begin immediate treatment. If a patient must be transported, information gathered by paramedics is relayed to the local hospital, enabling physicians and staff to activate special heart teams and prepare for the patient BEFORE their arrival. The national standard for field to cath lab is about 90 minutes. Thanks to our 12 lead EKGs in the field, we now have patients making it from field to the cath lab in under an hour! Remember – time is muscle!!

The survival rate for cardiac arrest patients is bleak; the national average for patients who live to be discharged from a hospital is about 5 percent. However, TVF&R’s survival rate over the past three years has ranged from 10.8 percent to 22.9 percent – making it among the top in the nation. TVF&R attributes its strong survival rates to several factors: quick calls to 9-1-1, dispatchers instructing callers to perform Hands-Only CPR, the growing availability of AEDs in the region, and TVF&R’s quick EMS response.

tri met news‏

2010-02-11T16:52:00.000-08:00

Reading, Riding, (no) ‘Rithmatic
TriMet's WES Commuter Rail is celebrating its first year of service this month.

As part of the anniversary celebration, you can enter a drawing to win an

Amazon Kindle (no purchase necessary to enter or win). The deadline to enter

is 5 p.m., February 26; two winners will be chosen on March 4. See the contest

rules at http://www.trimet.org/wes/wesworkscontest.htm

WES, (Westside Express Service) provides a welcome alternative to I-5 and 217

for commuters living Wilsonville, Tualatin, Tigard and Beaverton. If you haven’t

tried WES, now is a great time to check it out!

Tigard Library Book Group Will Discuss "People of the Book"

2010-02-11T16:51:00.000-08:00

The Tigard Library’s Morning Book Group will discuss Geraldine Brooks’ People of the Book on Tuesday, March 9, from 10:30 a.m.-Noon. Hanna Heath, an Australian rare-book expert, is offered the job of a lifetime. She is hired to analyze and conserve the famous Sarajevo Haggadah, which was rescued during the Bosnian war. When Hanna discovers a series of tiny artifacts in the book’s ancient binding, she begins to unlock its mysteries.
The group meets on the second Tuesday of the month in the Grace Tigard Houghton Room on the second floor of the Library. New members are always welcome. For more information, please call the Library at 503-684-6537 and request the Adult Reference Desk, or visit the Library’s web page at: http://www.tigard-or.gov/library/

Going Green and Saving Resources

2010-02-11T16:48:00.000-08:00

Looking for effective ways to save money on utility bills?

Where jobs and training in sustainability are posted?

How to go about to hiring an eco-friendly contractor?

Where to donate used building materials for a tax-donation?

Receive green home design ideas for little or no cash?

Where you can attend a free class to build a rain garden?

How to make your home elderly-friendly and wheelchair accessible?

Which local green programs and incentives are available to you?

Try this FREE service from Metro!

Regional Green Building Hotline

A service of the Green Development Resource Center

503.823.5431 http://www.buildgreen411.com greenhotline@ci.portland.or.us

Valerie Garrett LEED AP

Coordinator

503-823-5431

Next Seat Belt Enforcement Campaign Set To Begin

2010-02-11T16:07:00.000-08:00

The Tigard Police Department will once again participate in the “Three Flags Safety Belt Campaign” beginning February 8th. The two week-long blitz is a multi-jurisdictional approach to help ensure motorists respect, obey and understand the importance of using seat belts and child safety seats. Tigard Police officers will be focusing on enforcement at various times and days. This effort is made possible through dedicated federal funding providing overtime opportunities to carry out the program. Officers will be focusing on overall seatbelt compliance, proper use of child booster seats and speed violations.

Recent statistics indicated that Tigard motorists demonstrated nearly 97% compliance regarding vehicle safety belt usage for front-seated occupants. The national average is just over 80%. While these figures are encouraging, it should also be noted that the lack of safety belt use was a major factor in half of all motor vehicle fatalities in Oregon during recent years.

The base fine for failure to wear a safety belt in a vehicle is $145.00. The base fine is the same for improperly wearing a safety belt, such as behind your back or under your arm.

In the past 16 years of record keeping pertaining to the wearing of seat belts in the State of Oregon, seat belt usage has grown from 43 per cent noted in 1989 to the current statewide estimates of 93 per cent. More importantly, that increased number of seat belt usage occurring during that same time span, also equates to reducing the motor vehicle collision mortality rate in Oregon by one – half. Seat belts save lives! The numbers don’t lie.

Additional information regarding child passenger safety can be found at http://www.actsoregon.org/index.html.

TVF&R Command & Business Ops Center Moving

2010-02-11T15:57:00.000-08:00

11945 SW 70th Ave. Tigard, Oregon

Tualatin Valley Fire and Rescue is moving its headquarters to a more central location so it can better serve its taxpayers. The bond includes funding to relocate TVF&R’s Command and Business Operations Center (CBOC). TVF&R has purchased a building in Tigard and has hired an architect to prepare the building’s interior for occupancy.

The current headquarters facility in Aloha was built in 1979 to support five stations; today it supports 23. It has space for only a portion of TVF&R staff and lacks adequate transportation access.

While the original plan was to co-locate CBOC with a station in Wilsonville, a substantial drop in commercial real estate prices has enabled TVF&R to acquire a new building in Tigard for significantly less money and sooner than first planned.

The future Command Center will be centrally located in our service area. In addition to housing command and operations personnel, CBOC will also have a Fire Operations Center to direct all resources during a disaster. The building is unfinished, requires seismic upgrading, and should be ready to occupy early in summer 2010.

TVF&R's Move to Tigard

2010-01-28T16:13:00.000-08:00

TVF&R Command & Business Ops Center Moving

11945 SW 70th Ave. Tigard, Oregon

Tualatin Valley Fire and Rescue is moving its headquarters to a more central location so it can better serve its taxpayers. The bond includes funding to relocate TVF&R’s Command and Business Operations Center (CBOC). TVF&R has purchased a building in Tigard and has hired an architect to prepare the building’s interior for occupancy.

The current headquarters facility in Aloha was built in 1979 to support five stations; today it supports 23. It has space for only a portion of TVF&R staff and lacks adequate transportation access.

While the original plan was to co-locate CBOC with a station in Wilsonville, a substantial drop in commercial real estate prices has enabled TVF&R to acquire a new building in Tigard for significantly less money and sooner than first planned.

The future Command Center will be centrally located in our service area. In addition to housing command and operations personnel, CBOC will also have a Fire Operations Center to direct all resources during a disaster. The building is unfinished, requires seismic upgrading, and should be ready to occupy early in summer 2010.

News Update on free Thursday dinners...

2010-01-28T10:00:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone,

I’ve learned that Tigard Covenant Church has cancelled their free monthly Thursday night dinner. The good news is that they will continue to operate their food pantry on Tuesday and Thursday 9 a.m. to Noon.

St. Anthony’s Community Café will continue to host a free nutritious hot meal to community members in need every Sunday at 5:30 p.m. Held in the St. Anthony School cafeteria, the Community Café offers a safe and warm place to enjoy a free hot meal. For more information email communitycafe@stanthonytigard.org.

St. Anthony’s also operates an Emergency Pantry at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church (12645 S.W. Pacific Hwy. Tigard.) Learn more at https://www.edline.net/pages/StAnthonyTigard/Parish/stv or check out the info below from the Oregon Food Bank:

St. Vincent de Paul Tigard at St. Anthony's Church

12630 S.W. Grant Ave.

Tigard, OR 97223

503-684-8280

Nearest public transportation: Bus 12, 45, 94

Serves Tigard and Portland, ZIP codes 97223 and 97224

Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Friday, Noon to 2:30 p.m., Wednesday 1 to 3 p.m., Thursday Noon to 2:30 p.m. and 4:30 to 6:30 p.m.

Tigard Covenant Church

11321 S.W. Naeve Street

Tigard, OR 97224

503-639-3084

Nearest public transportation: Bus 12

Serves Tigard, Tualatin, Sherwood, ZIP codes 97223, 97224, 97062, 97140

Hours: Tuesday and Thursday 9 a.m. to Noon

News from TriMet's blog‏

2010-01-28T09:53:00.000-08:00

News and links from TriMet:

· Feb. 2 is WES Commuter Rail’s first birthday. Have you tried WES yet? Riders say WES is fast, comfortable and friendly; plus, they can spend more time doing what they want, instead of fighting traffic. More

· 42% of WES trips were previously made via auto; work on Tualatin quiet zone underway. More

· If you have not tried WES, TriMet’s commuter rail line, now is a great time. As part of TriMet's WES anniversary celebration, you can enter a drawing to win an Amazon Kindle (no purchase necessary to enter or win). Please pass this information on to your friends and co-workers. Enter February 2 through 5 p.m., Friday, February 26, 2010. More http://trimet.org/wes/wesworkscontest.htm

Neighborhood Network Open House in February‏

2010-01-28T09:51:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone,

I just wanted to send you the information about the Neighborhood Network Open House that’s coming up on February 6 (Saturday) between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. in the Library Community Room. We’ll have a laptop set up for each of the blogs, large maps of your Neighborhood Area and postcards from each area for folks to take with them.

If you are interested in stopping by, I think it would be neat to get a quick photo of you – maybe posted somewhere on your site with a note like “contact your blog administrator” or something like that. What do you think?

The event is drop-in, and some of you have already let me know you’ll stop by. If so – that’s Great news!! I can’t wait to see you :)

If not, please consider placing the info on your site, or reconsider stopping by…did I mention that there’s gonna be really good (and free) food??

I hope to see you there,

-Joanne

Neighborhood Network Open House
You’re invited to drop by the Tigard Library Community Room on Saturday, February 6, anytime between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. for the 3rd Annual Neighborhood Network Open House.

Check out your neighborhood web page, get information, discover community resources, connect with neighbors and explore opportunities to get involved.

The Neighborhood Network program has something for everyone! Let us show you what it can do! City staff and representatives from the Neighborhood Network Program will be on hand to answer your questions and listen to your ideas.

Refreshments will be served!

Need more information? Contact Joanne Bengtson at 503-718-2476.

mapping how-to‏

2010-01-28T09:49:00.000-08:00

Tigard Maps Demonstration

Wednesday, March 10

7-8 p.m.

Houghton Room

Need to look up property information about your house? Look up permit history? Learn about crime in your neighborhood? See which businesses are located in your area? Join us as we explore some of the details of the City of Tigard’s online mapping application.

Bike Tigard‏

2010-01-28T09:46:00.000-08:00

Cool program!

I’ve added the info to the Bike Tigard web page:

http://www.tigard-or.gov/community/bike_tigard/default.asp

Hi Nancy,

At our last bike map team meeting, I found out about a program for Tigard businesses to get free bike racks—all they have to do is request them! Is this something we can add to the Bike Tigard website? Is there anywhere else we can share this information?

No bike rack? No problem. The Washington Transportation Alliance is offering free bicycle racks to Tigard retail stores. Tell the businesses you frequent about this great program:

http://www.wta-tma.org/programs/bicycle-rack-program

Thanks!

Andrea Consalus

GIS Intern

City of Tigard

503-718-2461

andreac@tigard-or.gov

Tigard Committee for Citizen Involvement Openings

2010-01-28T09:45:00.000-08:00

The Tigard Committee for Citizen Involvement (CCI) is recruiting for four at-large positions and one youth position.

Recent CCI focus areas have included:

Increasing outreach to new and under-represented groups in the community
Evaluating the structure and content of the Neighborhood Program
Forming 2010 Census Complete Count Committee

The CCI generally meets from 7 – 8:30 p.m. on the third Wednesday of every month at the Tigard Public Library. All committee agendas and minutes are available at http://www.tigard-or.gov/city_hall/boards_committees/cci/default.asp.

Community members who have a passion to serve, experience working in community involvement, and are willing to give of their time are especially encouraged to apply. Encouraged also are residents who wish to develop their skills in public involvement, who represent the diversity of the community, and who are active in the City sponsored Neighborhood Network program.

The five members (4 regular and 1 youth) will be appointed through the City's established application and interview process. Applications are available online http://www.tigard-or.gov/community/volunteer_ops, at Tigard City Hall, or by calling Marissa Daniels at 503-718-2428.

Applications must be received by 5 p.m. on Friday, February 12, 2010.

Marissa Daniels, Associate Planner

Long Range Planning

City of Tigard, Oregon

13125 SW Hall Boulevard

Tigard, OR 97223

(503) 639-4171, ext. 2428

marissa@tigard-or.gov

Where to buy TriMet tickets and passes‏

2010-01-28T09:43:00.000-08:00

You can get TriMet tickets, passes and schedules at many of the places you already go, including grocery stores, college campuses and gift shops—more than 130 locations all over Portland and the surrounding areas. More

Subscribe/unsubscribe Change your account settings

TriMet · 4012 SE 17th Ave · Portland, OR 97202 · 503-238-RIDE (7433) · trimet.org

Tigard Library Seeking Oral History Interview Participants in February

2010-01-28T09:42:00.001-08:00

In conjunction with its community reading program in February, the Tigard Library would like to interview people who lived during the Great Depression. Tigard Reads 2010 will feature John Steinbeck’s classic novel The Grapes of Wrath. The Library will present a series of events throughout February focusing on the 1930s and the impacts of the Great Depression and Dust Bowl.
In association with the Tigard Historical Association, the Library would like to video-record those who grew up during the Depression about their own experiences and memories. The Library will provide participants with a copy of the interview and also add the interviews to its collection.
Oral history interviews will be conducted between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. each Saturday in February at the Library. Each interview will last about 45 minutes. Interviews will be conducted by appointment only. Please call the Library at 503-684-6537 and ask for extension 2517 to register.

"Tigard Reads" Examines the 1930s at the Tigard Public Library

2010-01-28T09:39:00.000-08:00

The Tigard Library will examine the Great Depression and the Dust Bowl-era of the 1930s in February with a month-long series of programs. “Tigard Reads” is the library’s community reading program and the selected book for adults is John Steinbeck’s The Grapes of Wrath.
The community reading program encourages people to read and discuss the same book. For the first time the program includes books for children and young adults that correspond to the 1930s theme. The Library will hold discussion groups for all three books, as well as a Depression Dance with instruction for 1930s-era dances like the Foxtrot and the Lindy Hop.
The kick off on Saturday, January 30, at 1:30 p.m. will introduce Tigard Reads with family-friendly entertainment from the local folk duo, The Wanderers. Complementary copies of all three books will be available at the kick-off while supplies last. They were purchased by a donation from the Friends of the Tigard Library.
Other February events for adults include:

The Oregon Story: Agricultural Workers, Monday, Feb. 1, 7 p.m.
Oral History Interviews Saturdays, Feb 6, 18, 20, 27, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
Book Discussion Groups, Tuesday, Feb. 9, 10:30 a.m.-noon and Wednesday,
Feb. 24, 7-8:30 p.m.
John Steinbeck Double Feature Films—The Grapes of Wrath and Of Mice and Men, Saturday, Feb. 13, noon-4 p.m.
Living Sustainably Workshop, Tuesday, Feb. 23, 7-8:30 p.m.
Starting Your Own Vegetable Garden and Edible Landscapes Workshop, Thursday, Feb. 25, 7-8 p.m.

Please visit the Library or the Library website at http://www.tigard-or.gov/library/for a complete listing of Tigard Reads activities for adults and children or call the Library at 503-684-6537 for more information.

Phishing, Email Scams & Bogus Census Web Sites

2010-01-15T08:57:00.000-08:00

There have been reports of the potential for scams related to the 2010 Census. Listed below is information from (and a link to) the U.S. Census web page on this topic.

This looks like the best resource, it comes directly from the Census: http://www.census.gov/survey_participants/related_information/phishing_email_scams_bogus_census_web_sites.html

Also, this includes information about how to report such scams.

Phishing, Email Scams & Bogus Census Web Sites
What Is Phishing?
'Phishing' is the criminally fraudulent process of attempting to acquire sensitive information such as usernames, passwords, social security numbers, bank account or credit card details by masquerading as a trustworthy entity in an electronic communication. Phishing is typically carried out by email and it often directs users to enter sensitive information at a fake web site whose look and feel are almost identical to the legitimate one.

The Census Bureau does NOT conduct the 2010 Census via email or the Internet.
Census Bureau initiated communication through email

You may receive an email from the Census Bureau regarding your participation in a survey, however:

The Census Bureau does not request detailed personal information through email.
The Census Bureau does not send email requesting PIN codes, passwords social security numbers or similar access information for credit cards, banks or other financial accounts.
How to report phishing, email scams and bogus Census web sites
If you receive an email or find a web site that you suspect is falsely representing the Census Bureau:

Do not reply or click on any links within the email.
Do not open any attachments. Attachments may contain code that could infect your computer.
Forward the email or web site URL to the Census Bureau at itso.fraud.reporting@census.gov.
After you forward the email to us, delete the message.
You will not receive a confirmation email after forwarding the information to us. However, the Census Bureau will investigate the information and notify you of its findings. The Census Bureau can use the information, URLs and links you forward to trace the hosting web site and alert authorities to help shut down the fraudulent site.

Is your survey legitimate?
If you have questions regarding the legitimacy of a survey questionnaire received in the mail, a phone call or visit by a Census Bureau employee, or other concerns of a non-cyber nature, please visit our Are You In a Survey? page.

Earthquakes Happen Here – Are You Ready?

2010-01-15T08:56:00.000-08:00

As we watch the devastation unfold in Haiti, our hearts go out to those who are suffering and in need. Buildings have collapsed, supplies are running low and families struggle to communicate with each other. Even though Haiti’s suffering is made worse by poverty and a lack of building codes, this week’s earthquake is a reminder that a similar earthquake could someday devastate our homes here in Oregon.

Geologists tell us that the Pacific Northwest will someday suffer a catastrophic earthquake. It’s only a matter of time. Buildings will fall, roads will crack, the power will go out and your cell phone will not work.

Do you know what to do when the ground starts shaking?

§ Are you prepared?

§ Do you have an emergency kit that can feed and shelter your family for several days?

§ Does your family have a plan? Do you have a meeting place? How will you reach each other when cell phones don’t work?

TVF&R has a comprehensive list of resources that can help you plan. Click here to see that list.

Most importantly, if you don’t have a plan, develop one now before you forget. “Almost everyone thinks about it, then our vanishing attention span takes us to someplace else,” says TVF&R’s Emergency Manager Jeff Rubin, “then eventually we’re in the middle of an emergency or disaster and wishing we had followed through. If you’ve ever worried for an hour about an overdue loved one, imagine worrying for a month.”

OLCC Compliance Checks in Tigard

2010-01-15T08:49:00.002-08:00

Last week the Tigard Police Department assisted the Oregon Liquor Control Commission who was visiting Tigard area businesses which sell alcohol. A pair of OLCC inspectors along with two Tigard Police Officers accompanying an eighteen year-old male acting as a decoy, visited 33 establishments. Oregon Administrative Rules strictly set guidelines for the OLCC regarding such random and unannounced checks at businesses selling alcohol. Random checks are conducted periodically to ascertain compliance regarding the sale of alcohol to minors. Compliance checks may also be initiated based on complaints lodged with the OLCC or local law enforcement.

The recent checks in Tigard indicated 97 per cent compliance. Only one business, a bar, provided alcohol to the minor acting as a decoy. In this case, the minor provided the requested identification, however the server followed through with the sale even though the valid identification presented clearly indicated the holder was 18 years old and underage.

This nearly perfect compliance check significantly surpassed the dismal 30 per cent compliance results obtained earlier this year when a similar sweep was conducted. Increased education, enforcement and awareness may be attributed to the dramatically improved score.

The Tigard Police Department plans to continue its efforts to reduce the sale of alcohol to minors in Tigard. One way police are working to combat the problem of underage drinking is to partner with the school district and become involved with programs promoting healthy and substance-free lifestyles amongst youth. In addition, police plan on continued enforcement and additional compliance checks to reaffirm the importance to such businesses that the sale of alcohol to minors will not be tolerated.

Hike around Hagg Lake

2010-01-15T08:49:00.001-08:00

Get some outdoor exercise this month by hiking around Hagg Lake. The Mazamas are leading a 9 - 10 mile hike around the lake on Saturday, January 30. The trail covers different terrain including grassy hillsides, marshy areas, open forest, stream crossings and viewpoints of the lake. Hikers should be prepared for muddy terrain and keep a look out for deer, coyote and a variety of waterfowl. There is a $4 fee for non-members and a carpool will meet at 9 a.m. at Target on 185th. Contact trail leader David Fickett at (360) 314-2102 for more info.

Get dirty for a good cause

2010-01-15T08:48:00.000-08:00

If your list of New Year's resolutions included volunteering, why not plant some native trees to protect our watershed? Streams lined with native plants provide cleaner, cooler water, better flood management and habitat for fish and other wildlife. If you'd like to join in and get dirty for a good cause, see the schedule below for upcoming plantings. Events are Saturdays at 9 a.m. Click on the location link for more info and to volunteer.
• January 16, Pascuzzi Pond, Tualatin
• January 23, Durham City Park
• January 30, King City Park
• February 6, Durham City Park
• February 13, Platanus Trail, Sherwood
• February 20, Mary Woodward Wetland, Tigard
• February 20, Ibach Park, Tualatin
• February 27, Pascuzzi Pond, Tualatin

Plan your planting

2010-01-15T08:44:00.000-08:00

It's not quite time to start your spring planting, but now is the time to start planning. Here are some resources to help you with native plants, natural landscapes and water-friendly gardening practices in your yard.
Sign up to be a Clean Water Hero and get up to three hours of free, on-site, technical assistance to help you create a sustainable stormwater landscape to fit your yard.
Attend a free naturescaping class to help plan your landscape:
Naturescaping Basic Workshop
Sun., February 21, 1 - 5 p.m.
Tualatin Hills Nature Park
Register online
Site Planning 1
(Must take Basic Workshop first)
Sat., March 13, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Tualatin Hills Nature Park
Register online

Download Metro's Grow Smart, Grow Safe guide to help you find lawn and garden products that are the least hazardous to your family, pets, wildlife and watershed.
Order native plants from East Multnomah Soil & Water Conservation District. Place your order by Sunday, February 7 and pick up Saturday, February 20.

Early Childhood Resource Fair‏

2010-01-08T12:42:00.000-08:00

Free Early Childhood Resource Fair
At St. Anthony School Cafeteria
12645 SW Pacific Highway
Tigard, OR 97223
Saturday, February 6, 2010
9:00 am – 12:00 pm

Thank you, Tena

Tena Oehler

Director, St. Anthony Preschool

12645 SW Pacific Hway

Tigard, OR 97223

503-639-4179 ext 257

Census Open House Invitation

2010-01-08T12:35:00.000-08:00

From the US Census Bureau:

Invitation to Open House

January 15, 2010 at 1 P.M.

Beaverton Local Census Office

The Village on Scholls Ferry

16315 SW Barrows Rd.

Beaverton, OR 97007

We wish to cordially invite you to our Open House on Friday Jan., 15, 2010. The purpose of the event is to increase community awareness of the decennial Census, our activities, and the importance to the community of being counted. As a Partner, we especially wish to invite you to attend.

Our festivities will feature keynote speakers. We anticipate having congressional, state, and county leaders on hand as well as some entertainment and local foods. We hope you will join us in celebration.

We would appreciate your confirmation, by Monday January 11, 2010 for our planning purposes. Please call us at (503) 716‐1235 to RSVP.

Sincerely:

Signed

JON WALDUM,

Local Census Office Manager

Beaverton Local Census Office The Village at Scholls 16315 SW Barrows Rd, Beaverton, OR 97007

WINTER DRIVING TIPS

2010-01-08T12:22:00.000-08:00

Winter Driving Tips from the Tigard Police‏
Ice and snow in the Willamette Valley can come down on us sometimes when we least expect it. We learned that lesson again this month during the storm that took many of us by surprise while it developed in the middle of our work week. It was also apparent that these storms can impact our roads quicker than the City, County and State can react, so it is only wise for all of us who depend on traveling to prepare for navigating the roads when they get bad.

The web is full of winter driving tips for motorists, but here are a few universal ones that law enforcement recommends to avoid becoming involved in a crash or getting stuck:

· Allow enough time. Get an early start and allow plenty of time to reach your destination.

· Keep your gas tank full. It may be necessary to change routes or turn back during a bad storm or you may be caught in a traffic delay.

· Keep windshield and windows clear. You may want to stop at a safe location to use a snow brush or scraper. Use the car defroster and a clean cloth to keep the windows free of fog.

· Slow down. Posted speeds may be safe in most weather, but are an invitation for trouble on snow and ice due to stopping distance, so keep your seat belt buckled and leave more distance between your vehicle and the vehicle ahead. Bridge decks and shady spots can be icy when other areas are not. Remember to avoid sudden stops and quick direction changes.

· Be more observant. Visibility is often limited in winter by weather conditions. Slow down and watch for other vehicles that have flashing lights, visibility may be so restricted during a storm that it is difficult to see the slow moving equipment.

· If you get stuck, try to move your car completely off the roadway and use your emergency flashers. It is generally not ok to leave your vehicle on the shoulder since the lane markers may be obstructed by snow and moving traffic may need to use the highway shoulder to get by. Call for a tow with your cell phone or try to flag down someone to call for you.

DO NOT ABANDON your car. Police have an obligation to protect life and property by keeping the roads clear (including the shoulders) so that other traffic can keep moving. Any car left in the right-of-way could create a liability hazard for the owner and the city. If your car is obstructing traffic in any way, even on the shoulder, it could be towed by law and police tows are usually accompanied with a citation in addition to an increased tow fee.

A great downloadable guide is available from the AAA website at the following link:

http://www.aaapublicaffairs.com/Assets/Files/200711281238140.HowtoGoonIceandSnow.pdf

Interested Young Adults Wanted by Tigard Police

2010-01-08T12:20:00.000-08:00

The Tigard Police Department is currently recruiting young adults who are interested in both law enforcement and volunteering in their community.

The Explorer Post is a program for young men and women ages 16 – 20 interested in learning about future careers in the field of law enforcement. The program provides an opportunity to experience first-hand the functions of a police department. Tigard Explorers assist with various community functions such as the annual Festival of Balloons, Tigard Tree Lighting event, Main Street Halloween, teen movie nights at the Tigard Library, as well the annual Old Fashioned July 4th Celebration. The events provide Explorers with invaluable experience and involvement within their community while creating opportunities to meet new friends and gain useful knowledge.

Once accepted into the program, Explorers are required to attend an 80 hour Explorer Academy. The training provided at the academy includes report writing, traffic stops, crime scene investigations, defensive tactics, firearm safety, arrest procedures, criminal law and a host of law enforcement related aspects.

Once graduated from the Explorer Academy, Tigard candidates are required to volunteer 16 hours a month while maintaining a 2.0 GPA in school.

To apply, obtain an application at Tigard City Hall or download one from the City of Tigard website: www.tigard-or.gov More information about the program can be obtained by calling 503-718-2578.

Revised Street Maintenance Fee

2010-01-08T12:18:00.000-08:00

Tigard City Council Passes Revised Street Maintenance Fee
In a public hearing this evening, Tigard City Council responded to concerns about recent action taken on Tigard’s Street Maintenance Fee and adopted a revised fee schedule. The Street Maintenance Fee is used to maintain existing Tigard city streets to prolong their life and prevent expensive reconstruction. Maintenance costs are accelerating and the condition of Tigard streets has been slowly deteriorating.

In a public hearing on December 8, 2009, Council approved an increased Street Maintenance Fee after a year-long process. During the hearing, members of the business community commented that the increase was too high during these economic times. In response to those comments, members of Tigard Council and staff met with several people who testified to listen to their concerns. Based on those meetings, a new proposal with lower fees was jointly developed which was adopted by the City Council.

The lower fees will fund a downsized pavement management program. The revised program is intended to hold the line on street condition to prevent further deterioration, but will not provide the planned improvement in the average street condition for Tigard. Street condition is commonly measured using an index from 0-100. Tigard has a long-term goal to increase the average condition of city streets to be between 70 and 75. The adopted program will hold the average pavement condition at 67. The program also includes improved right-of-way maintenance, which was not funded previously. Funding is at a decreased level than adopted December 8th with an estimated $100,000 going to maintain rights-of-way and medians.

The fees will have a three-part phase-in that will start July 1, 2010 and will be complete on January 1, 2012. To prevent the program from falling behind inflation, the fees are indexed, but will not increase by more than seven percent per year.

Below is a summary comparison of the action taken by Tigard City Council:

Comparison of Tigard Street Maintenance Fee by Ordinance
Customer Type Prior Ordinance Ordinance Passed at Dec 8, 2009 Hearing
Ordinance Passed at January 5, 2010 Hearing

Initial Phase Final Phase* Initial Phase Final Phase*
Residential $2.18 $3.22 $6.01 $3.01 $5.25
Non-Residential $0.78 $1.23 $2.42 $0.92 $1.19
Start Date Current July 1, 2010 July 1, 2012 July 1, 2010 Jan 1, 2012
* Final Phase amount prior to inflationary adjustment

news from DEQ‏

2010-01-08T12:13:00.000-08:00

It's Now Illegal to Trash that Computer or TV!
The new year brings an important reminder to all Oregonians: Beginning Jan. 1, 2010, it's illegal to dispose of computers, monitors or TVs in the garbage or at disposal sites such as landfills, transfer stations and incinerators.

This disposal ban is part of the same law that created Oregon E-Cycles, which provides free recycling of computers, monitors and TVs at any of the program’s 220 collection sites statewide. The law states that anyone violating the ban could receive a penalty of up to $500 for each violation. Each computer, monitor or TV disposed of improperly is considered a separate violation.

Visit Oregon E-Cycles to find a conveniently located collection site or call the toll-free hotline at 1-888-5-ECYCLE (1-888-532-9253).

Neither the ban nor Oregon E-Cycles covers computer peripherals (keyboards, mice, etc.) or other types of electronics, but DEQ encourages all Oregonians to recycle these items as well. You can find a partial list of other electronics recyclers on the Oregon E-Cycles website.

For questions about the new disposal ban, check out DEQ’s Q&A on the topic.

Learn About Tigard Police

2010-01-08T12:02:00.000-08:00

The Tigard Police Department operates an eight week Citizens Police Academy once a year. The Department is presently recruiting interested citizens who want to learn about their police department for the upcoming academy beginning April 7th, 2010. The academy is conducted on eight consecutive Wednesday evenings from 7:00 PM to 9:30 PM at Tigard City Hall; 13125 SW Hall Blvd.

The purpose of the academy is to create better understanding and communication between citizens and police through education. The intent is not to produce citizens trained in law enforcement, but to help citizens better understand their police department. When citizens know and understand the limitations and abilities of law enforcement, the police can then better serve the community.

The academy subject matter covers a wide range of law enforcement topics such as investigations, patrol, training, community policing, gangs, narcotics and firearms. All sessions are conducted by members of the Tigard Police Department. A graduation on June 2nd will conclude this year’s program. To date, 350 community members have participated in previous academies, which have grown to be extremely popular.

Academy graduates leave with increased knowledge and enthusiasm to share the newly learned knowledge with their family, friends and neighbors. Further, some Citizens Police Academy graduates pursue volunteer efforts that closely match their interests. Other graduates have expanded on their interests in law enforcement or other elements of the community.

If you are interested and able to commit to attending most, if not all of the sessions, you are encouraged to apply. A criminal history background check will be conducted to determine eligibility. Apply early as enrollment is limited to 20 participants. Application deadline is March 25th. You can find an application online by visiting our website.
http://www.tigard-or.gov/police/community_policing/police_academy.asp Completed applications can be returned in person to the Tigard Police Department, faxed to
503-718-2645 or mailed. For more information, please call (503) 718-2561 during normal business hours.

Broken Water Pipe info from TVF&R and the Tual. Valley Water Dist.

2009-12-17T08:40:00.000-08:00

Tualatin Valley Fire and Rescue firefighters are recovering from a busy week dealing with broken water pipes across the District. In the past seven days, firefighters responded to 130 calls for service because of water problems at homes and businesses. “Now that the temperatures are back above freezing, this is a great time to educate yourself about how to shut off the water in your home,” says TVF&R Communications Officer Brian Barker, “this can happen to anyone, and many homeowners suffer thousands of dollars in damage because they don’t know how to stop the water from flowing.”

This is also a good time to prepare yourself for power outages and other problems that happen during the winter months. TVF&R advises that you take the following preventative measures:

§ Gather necessary supplies for your family including flashlights, extra batteries, water, food, blankets, cell phone (vehicle) charger, manual can opener, battery-operated clock, etc. Stock up on food and water, as well as necessary medications.

§ Candles are a fire hazard – use only flashlights, battery-operated lanterns, and light sticks as emergency lighting in your home.

§ Prepare your vehicle. Inspect and change fluids (oil, antifreeze, wiper washer, etc.) and ensure your tire tread and brakes are in good working order. Keep your fuel tank at least half-filled and have emergency supplies (flares, blanket, water, cell phone) on hand in case you’re stranded. Avoid driving when roads are treacherous.

§ Never use outdoor equipment including propane or kerosene heaters or charcoal barbecues inside a home due to the risk of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning. CO is a colorless, odorless and tasteless gas that claims hundreds of lives every year.

§ Gas-fueled generators must be used outside in a well-ventilated area to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. Read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully before using a generator.

Shut Off Your Water | How to Find Your Shut Off Valve

If a water pipe broke in your home, are you able to find the shut off valve? Know where it’s located before you have an emergency. There should be a valve near the house.

Look for your shut off valve in the following places:

§ In the crawl space or basement, where the water line enters the home.

§ In the garage where the water line enters the wall or ceiling, near the water heater or laundry hookup.

§ Outside near the foundation, often protected by a concrete ring or clay pipe.

Your Water Meter

Your water meter is located in a concrete or plastic box in the ground, generally in front of your house and near the side property line. It’s important to keep the box free of plants and roots that can obstruct or hide the meter or damage the service line.

Can't Find Your Shut Off Valve?

You may want to have a shut off valve installed if you can’t locate one. If you have an emergency and need help shutting off your water at the meter or locating your water meter, please call Tigard Public Works at 503-639-4171 or (after 5 p.m.) 503-639-1554. This is for Tigard Water Service Area customers.

If your water provider is the Tualatin Valley Water District, call them at 503-642-1511.

Not sure who provides your water? If your bill comes from the City of Tigard, then you are receiving water from the Tigard Water Service Area.

Types of Shut Off Valves

Your water shut off valve may take many different forms. Below are a few of the most common types of shutoff valves:

You can also turn off your water at your backflow device

Tigard Library Book Group Explores The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie

2009-12-09T13:24:00.001-08:00

The Tigard Library evening book group will discuss The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie on Wednesday, Jan. 27, at 7 p.m. and welcomes readers to join the discussion. C. Alan Bradley’s debut novel is a mystery set in Great Britain in the 1950s, featuring a charming and diabolically intelligent young sleuth.
Early one morning, Flavia de Luce discovers a dying man in the cucumber patch. When her reclusive father is arrested for the murder, she hunts for the real murderer. Kirkus Review says “Brilliant, irresistible and incorrigible, Flavia has a long future ahead of her.”
The evening book group meets on the fourth Wednesday of each month at 7 p.m. in the Grace Tigard Houghton Room on the second floor of the Library. For information about Library book groups and other activities, visit the Library’s Web site at http://www.tigard-or.gov/library and click on Adult Programs or call 503-684-6537.

Fire Department Safety Tips

2009-12-08T10:25:00.000-08:00

Cold Weather and Wind Prompts Fire District to Issue Safety Tips

Posted: 07 Dec 2009 12:00 PM PST

With prolonged below-freezing temperatures predicted for this region and the potential for power outages due to high winds, Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue has concerns about individuals heating their home with alternative heat sources. This may also be more of an issue this year as people try to save money due to the economy.

A recent survey conducted by the National Fire Protection Association and the American Red Cross indicated that in light of increasing heating costs and a suffering economy, 48% of the households surveyed will use an alternative heating source to reduce their bills this winter. Alternative heating sources include portable space heaters, stoves, ovens and fireplaces. A third (36%) of people with fireplaces reported they never cleaned or inspected their chimneys.

“It’s cold and some will choose to heat their homes with fireplaces or stoves,” says TVF&R Public Information Officer Brian Barker, “we just want to remind people to use caution when heating your home.”

TVF&R offers the following tips on the safe use of alternative heating sources:

§ If using a fireplace or woodstove, check to ensure the flue is unobstructed and the damper is open. Always use a tight-fitting fireplace screen or glass doors to contain burning embers.

§ Keep a close eye on your fire and keep it manageable. A fire that grows too large and hot can result in a chimney fire. Also, ensure your fire is extinguished before going to bed or leaving your home.

§ Never use gasoline or lighter fluid to start a fire.

§ Keep combustible materials (Christmas tree, furniture, paper, etc.) at least three feet away from fireplaces, woodstoves, and all heating devices.

§ Ashes can rekindle and start a fire. Wait several days before cleaning out your fireplace or woodstove or dispose of ashes in a metal container with a lid, placed outside your home.

§ Candles are a fire hazard – use only flashlights, battery-operated lanterns, and light sticks as emergency lighting in your home.

§ Never use outdoor equipment including propane or kerosene heaters or charcoal barbecues inside a home due to the risk of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning. CO is a colorless, odorless and tasteless gas that claims hundreds of lives every year.

§ Gas-fueled generators must be used outside in a well-ventilated area to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. Read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully before using a generator.

§ Check your smoke alarms to ensure they are working and install a carbon monoxide detector as a precaution.

Protect Your Pipes!

Posted: 07 Dec 2009 09:34 AM PST

With temperatures dipping below freezing, pipes and faucets near or in exterior walls may be at risk of freezing and bursting, resulting in a water problem when warmer temperatures return. TVF&R advises individuals to take the following preventative measures and know how to shut-off the water to their home in case of emergency.

§ In your home you may have pipes located in the exterior wall because they serve a fixture that is placed against that wall. While they may be somewhat insulated, they can still become cold enough to freeze. In the case of a sink, it may be helpful to open the cabinet doors under the sink to allow warm interior air to warm the wall. You can also leave a trickle of water running from the faucet.

§ Exposed pipes in the attic, basement or crawl space can also be at risk of freezing. Leaving a trickle of water running from a faucet farthest away from the water meter can be helpful. You can also wrap insulating material or electrical wire heating wrap around the pipes. This can be purchased at any home improvement store.

§ Never use a propane torch or an open flame to thaw a pipe due to the risk of igniting wood beams, flooring and other combustible materials around pipes. Hair dryers should also be avoided due to the risk of electrocution.

As water freezes, it expands. With enough expansion, pipes can develop cracks which are not apparent at first, but begin to leak as the ice melts. In the case of a broken pipe shut off the water valve (See how: http://www.tvwd.org/resources–outreach/shut-off-your-water.aspx) and contact a professional plumber or fire and water restoration company. These companies—located in the Yellow Pages—have the skills and equipment to remedy any water damage and get your home quickly back in order.

Tigard Public Works Department - READY for the SNOW!

2009-12-08T10:17:00.000-08:00

The City of Tigard’s fleet of snow removal equipment, which includes plows and sanders, has been inspected and is ready to go. The city’s street sanders have chains on the tires and are loaded with sand.

Did you know that the City of Tigard has enough sand stockpiled to complete the sanding routes throughout the city over four times! Our crews have chains and studded tires available for all city vehicles so city services will continue, even if it does snow.

For more information, including sanding routes, visit the City of Tigard website at www.tigard-or.gov or call the Tigard Public Works Department at 503-718-2591.

Traditional Andean Folk Music at the Tigard Public Library

2009-12-08T10:16:00.002-08:00

The trio Beautiful Flute will perform traditional Andean folk music at the Tigard Public Library on Friday, Jan. 15, at 7 p.m. The music of Beautiful Flute will include songs in Spanish and Quechua, the indigenous language of the Incas. The mesmerizing music of the panflutes and Andean flutes evokes images of the mystic lands of their origins.
Alex LLumiquinga, inspired by the popular Andean folk groups of his grandfather’s native Ecuador, has played Andean folk music for the past 15 years. Also inspired by his grandfather’s love of the music of the Andes, Sean Koreski has played various Andean flutes and panflutes for the last 24 years. Bolivian Fernando Lopez acquired his love of music from his father.
This free Spanish and English bilingual musical performance will be held at the Library Community Room and is sponsored by the Friends of the Tigard Public Library. For more information, please call the Library at 503-684-6537 and request the Adult Reference Desk or visit the Library’s web page at: http://www.tigard-or.gov/library/ and click on Adult Events.

Winter Weather Riding Tips

2009-12-08T10:16:00.001-08:00

Conditions can change quickly. Before you leave, get the latest updates on snow routes, delays and cancellations:

· Check the Service Alerts page on this website

· Call 503-238-RIDE (7433) and press "2" for Service Alerts

· Check local TV and radio stations

Using TransitTracker

TriMet's TransitTracker™ estimates the next arrivals for buses and trains in real time, based on each vehicle's location and average speed. But when many vehicles are off-route or significantly delayed, it cannot make accurate arrival predictions. TransitTracker can, however, tell you if your line is canceled, or, in some cases, how far away the next vehicle is.

Riding the bus: What to expect

Buses will follow their normal routes as long as the streets are safe for travel. We work with city and state road crews to help make sure bus routes get plowed first.

Snow routes

If there is a significant accumulation of snow, ice or freezing rain, some buses will be put on snow routes and others may be canceled. (Buses won't be able to serve parts of the route that are hilly or too dangerous to drive on.)

To plan ahead, find the typical snow route for your bus line(s). Snow routes may change depending on road conditions, so always check the Service Alerts page or call 503-238-RIDE for details.

Dress warmly and expect delays

Road conditions affect all traffic, so buses may experience significant delays. Chained buses cannot travel more than 25 mph. They won't be on schedule, but buses should still arrive at regular intervals. To be safe, please dress warmly.

Some bus lines may be canceled

If a route has many hills or other potential dangers, the bus line may be canceled until the roads have been cleared. We'll make announcements on trimet.org and 503-238-RIDE.

In extreme conditions, when snow or ice causes many buses to become stuck, we may cancel bus service on all but the most heavily used routes that serve the majority of riders. This allows us to better serve major population centers and dedicate buses where they can be most useful.

Riding tips

· If there's no traffic going by your bus stop, walk to a stop on a busy street.

· If your bus stop is in the middle of a hill, walk to the bottom where the operator can safely stop.

· Stand back from the curb until the bus comes to a complete stop. Buses can slide sideways in slippery conditions.

· Keep in mind your bus may not pull all the way over to the curb, to avoid getting stuck.

Riding MAX, WES or Streetcar: What to expect

MAX Light Rail, WES Commuter Rail and Portland Streetcar will operate normally unless there is a problem with the tracks, switches or the overhead wires. Still, we recommend you dress warmly and expect minor delays. When there is a major disruption, service updates are posted on the reader boards at MAX and WES stations, in addition to alerts via web and phone.

During a major disruption, we use shuttle buses

If we expect MAX, WES or Streetcar service will be interrupted for a significant period of time, we'll send out shuttle buses to carry riders between stations. That means you'll go to the station like you normally would, but you'll board a shuttle bus instead. (It will pull up near the station, with a sign that says "Shuttle.") Unless otherwise indicated, the buses will stop at all stations your train would serve during its normal hours of operation.

At times, MAX may continue running overnight in order to prevent ice from building up on the overhead wires. If this is the case, MAX will be in service and carrying passengers all night long.

Heartburn or Heart Attack? What to Know This Thanksgiving Holiday

2009-12-01T13:11:00.000-08:00

For many people the Thanksgiving dinner and heartburn go hand-in-hand. But how do you know that your chest pain is heartburn and not a heart attack? Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue responds to hundreds of heart-related calls each year. Many of these incidents involve patients who believed they were simply suffering severe heartburn.

Being uncertain if you or a loved one is experiencing a heart attack is normal, but a delay can be deadly or result in permanent heart damage. Unlike a cardiac arrest—which strikes suddenly and includes a loss of consciousness—a heart attack can develop so slowly that you are unaware of what’s happening. Symptoms typically include:

§ Chest discomfort in the center of the chest that lasts for more than a few minutes or goes away and returns. It can feel like uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness, or pain.

§ Upper body discomfort, such as pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw, or stomach.

§ Shortness of breath before, during, or after other discomforts.

§ Other signs, including breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea, or lightheadedness.

§ Women are more likely to experience shortness of breath, nausea/vomiting, and back or jaw pain.

Time is of the essence. The heart deteriorates with each passing minute from the onset of a heart attack to definitive hospital care. If you are experiencing one or more symptoms:

§ Don’t ignore your symptoms. Do not drive yourself to the hospital.

§ Call 9-1-1.

Having paramedics assess your situation will help expedite life-saving treatment.

With 22 stations and paramedics on every unit, TVF&R provides the highest level of cardiac care. Every TVF&R unit carries specialized drugs and advanced cardiac monitors with 12-lead EKG capability. These monitors enable paramedics to diagnose if the heart is failing and begin immediate treatment. If a patient must be transported, information gathered by paramedics is relayed to the local hospital, enabling physicians and staff to activate special heart teams and prepare for the patient before their arrival. This cooperative EMS system is already proving to be an asset in the race against time for heart attack patients. The national standard for field to cath lab is approximately 90 minutes. Data from local incidents show TVF&R/Providence patients making it from field to the cath lab in 49-62 minutes – and in one case, 26 minutes!

Grease is the word

2009-11-12T18:21:00.000-08:00

Grease is the word

Ready or not, the holiday season is at our doorstep. You might get an additional holiday guest this year if you pour leftover gravy, pan drippings and sauces down the drain. According to Roto-Rooter, incoming calls for service on the day after Thanksgiving will jump almost 50 percent.

To help combat the fat, Clean Water Services is offering a free "Freeze the Grease, Save the Drain Kit" to residents. Call (503) 681-3678 or email to get your kit including a pan scraper, lid and easy-to-follow instructions to:

Scrape grease and food scraps into a can.
Freeze it.
Toss it into the trash.
When fats, oils and grease are poured down the drain, they stick to the inside of pipes causing sewer overflows and expensive cleanup and repair in your home. As a double whammy, the untreated wastewater may flow into streets, neighborhood storm drains and ultimately the nearest river or stream, causing problems for surrounding communities and the environment.

Sand for your castle

Heavy, sustained rain strains the community's sanitary sewers and storm drainage systems. Even with our best efforts including leaf disposal opportunities and street sweeping, rising water may still occur. Sand and sandbags are available at the City of Tigard’s Public Works building – at the end of the parking lot nearest the TVF&R Fire Station on Burnham Street.

LEAF COLLECTION TIMES

Remember to bring your leaves, grass clippings and non-perishable food donation to the Annual Leaf Disposal and Food Drive. Three dates remain in this year’s collection period:

City of Tigard

Public Works Building
8777 SW Burnham Street
Saturday, November 21, 8:30 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Saturday, December 5, 8:30 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Saturday, December 12, 8:30 a.m. - 3 p.m.

New! Outages updates online

2009-11-12T18:09:00.000-08:00

We’ll help you get prepared for possible power outages.
Winter weather is just ahead! And even though PGE works hard to prevent power outages, sometimes, severe wind, snow and ice can knock out even the most reliable of electrical systems. We’re prepared to respond instantly to problems, and our new online outage map is already up and running. Now it’s your turn to get prepared.

See new online outage information
Customers asked for it, and we responded. Our Web site now has information on current power outages, including a map showing outage locations, and a list of outages by county and zip code. You can also see estimated repair times.*

In our Outage section you’ll also find advice on what to do in a power outage, generator safety tips and other helpful information.

Get our new outage brochure
We just updated our “How to Prepare for a Power Outage” brochure, which can help you stay safe and comfortable if your lights go out. You can download the brochure (PDF) or pick it up at any PGE Community Office. This is a handy guide to keep in your outage kit.

Put together an outage kit
Every home should have an outage kit. Basics should include:

· Flashlight

· Battery-powered radio

· Wind-up or battery-powered alarm clock

· Extra batteries

· Manual can opener

· A copy of the PGE “How to Prepare for a Power Outage” (PDF) brochure

Remember to change batteries periodically.

Or, you might consider purchasing a ready-made Red Cross emergency kit that will help you be prepared for a power outage or a serious emergency. Visit the Red Cross online store.

Know how to report an outage
If you experience a power outage or see a downed power line, call the PGE outage line immediately (keep these numbers in a handy spot):

· Portland: 503-464-7777

Three key safety tips to remember

1. Never touch a downed utility line! Stay back and call PGE immediately.

2. Use portable generators safely. Read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions exactly.

3. Never use charcoal or gas barbecues indoors. Avoid deadly carbon monoxide poisoning!

*Estimated times may not be available during major outages.

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Weatherization assistance
More money is available this year for low-income home weatherization programs, and income guidelines have increased to offer assistance to more households. To find out if you qualify, view our Weatherization Assistance section.

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Fix-it Fairs
Mark your calendar and plan to join PGE at the free Fix-It Fair, on Nov. 21 from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Roosevelt High School in North Portland. You’ll find how-to classes on a variety of home and garden topics, money-saving tips and free giveaways. Learn more about Fix-it Fairs through the City of Portland Web site.

Rain Barrels & Water Conservation‏

2009-04-29T12:01:00.000-07:00

What you should know if you live in Tigard’s Water Service Area
A rain barrel is a container used to collect rainwater as it flows from the roof of a house or building. A downspout from the roof is connected to the rain barrel, and water that would normally flow into streets, ditches, or storm water lines is diverted into the barrel. During periods of dry weather, the stored water can be used to water your landscape.

Since there is no shortage of rain in the Pacific Northwest, installing a rain barrel to collect rainwater might seem like a great idea. However, unlike other parts of the country that receive rainfall year-round, our region typically receives the least amount of rainfall during the summer months –
the time of year when outdoor water use is at its highest.

The Tigard Water Service Area gets about 37 inches of rainfall annually and about 90 percent of that
rainfall occurs between October and May – a time of year when we don’t need extra water to irrigate
our gardens or lawns. Because of this seasonal rainfall pattern, and their limited storage capacity, rain barrels are not the most effective water conservation device for our region.

A typical rain barrel holds about 55 gallons. This may seem like a lot of water, but you may find watering your landscape will take far more rain barrels than you might think. For example, an established lawn needs about an inch of water per week (a bit more in hot weather). At this rate, a 100-square-foot patch of lawn will need about 62 gallons of water a week. Assuming the lawn requires watering from May through September, you will need to collect at least 1,300 gallons of water, which means you will need to fill about 24 rain barrels!

Rain Barrel FAQs
1. Will I save money on water by installing a rain barrel? In short, no. Customers in the Tigard Water Service Area are fortunate to have relatively inexpensive water. The residential rate in 2008 is $2.51 per 100 cubic feet (ccf) which is equivalent to 748 gallons.

Say you purchase a 55- gallon rain barrel for $100. You will be saving 18 cents every time it’s filled which means you would have to fill it 555 times just to break even. At a rate of emptying and filling 24 times per year - it would take just over 23 years to make your money back.

In addition to cost of the rain barrel, maintenance costs should also be considered.

2. Is water from the rain barrel safe to use in my vegetable garden? Since many roofs have been treated with chemicals, which could affect water quality, you may not want to use this water in your vegetable, herb or edible plant gardens.

3. Will I get mosquitoes in my rain barrel? Rain barrels should be capped with a fiberglass screen that allows water in, but keeps mosquitoes out. However, if you are concerned about mosquitoes laying their eggs in your rain barrel, please ask your local nursery or garden supply store for an appropriate non-toxic solution.

4. Do I need to contact the city to obtain a permit if I want to install a rain barrel? The City of Tigard does not have a municipal or building code specifically for rain barrels so if you feel this device is right for you and your situation, you can install one without a permit. If you live outside the city but within the water service boundaries, contact your local jurisdiction for details.
5. Should I worry about algal growth or unpleasant odors emitting from my rain barrel?
Water that sits for a long period of time is apt to form algae which can cause unpleasant odors. Since rain barrels are typically open on top, water is exposed to sunlight, which can promote algal growth. The answer to this problem - use the rainwater in a timely manner. This will empty the rain barrel and prevent algae from forming.

Water Saving Tips
An alternative to rain barrels as a water conservation device is to save water using other methods
(also see the online resources section for more information):
• Water before 10 a.m. or after 6 p.m. when temperatures are cooler and the air is calm.
• Adjust your sprinklers so they are directed at your landscaped areas and not the sidewalk or driveway.
• Group plants with similar water needs together. Different plants need different amounts of water, sun and shade to survive.
• Try to keep your grass 2 to 3 inches long. This provides shade to the roots, so your lawn requires less water and mowing. This also allows the root system to become deeper and more efficient at storing water.
• The City of Tigard offers reimbursements on their water bill to customers in the Tigard Water Service Area for purchasing water wise landscape devices. Also, free indoor and/or outdoor water conservation kits are available. Contact the water conservation coordinator at 503.718.2599 for more information or visit the City of Tigard website at www.tigard-or.gov/water.

Online Resources
With a wealth of sites out there, where does one begin? Here are a few to get you started:

Overviews:
www.portlandonline.com (search stormwater management)
www.kingcounty.gov (search rain barrels)
www.cleanwaterservices.org (search rain barrel)
www.savingwater.org/docs/rainbarrels.pdf
www.lcrep.org/fieldguide/examples/rainbarrels.htm
www.demesne.info/Garden-Help/Rain-Barrels.htm

Rain Gardens:
www.tigard-or.gov (search rain garden)
www.pierce.wsu.edu/Water_Quality/LID/Raingarden_handbook.pdf
www.clark.wsu.edu (search rain garden)
www.cleanwaterservices.org (search rain garden)

Water Conservation Websites:
www.conserveh2o.org
www.tigard-or.gov/water
www.harvesth2o.com