• Free tax assistance available for qualified residents
• Metro Supportive Housing Services tax—who pays?
• Volunteer to help WashCo improve Translation Quality
• Neighbors Ready! (aka Cedar Hills Ready!)
• Washington County Public Affairs Forum
• Ease food insecurity in Oregon by volunteering or donating
• Victim Assistance Program seeks volunteers
• Explore the possibilities at WCSO
• Learn about the WCSO Search and Rescue program
• Prevent falls!
• Women Veteran Luncheon
• County Advisory Groups recruiting members
• Summer Camps are here!
• WashCo Bikes Summer Camp registration!
• Five Oaks Museum
• Discolored water? Don’t panic!
• Ask WCSO: Sheriff’s Office Warns of phone scammers impersonating officers
• New way to apply for unemployment in Oregon
• Community Public Safety Forum
• Viva Village March events

Free tax assistance available for qualified residents

Through April 14

Metropolitan Family Services (MFS) CASH (Creating Assets, Savings and Hope) Oregon provides free federal and Oregon tax assistance services for qualifying residents living in Beaverton, Cedar Mill, and throughout Oregon, with household incomes of less than $64,000. Applicants will receive a call from a tax preparer to discuss details after they sign-up. For more information and to schedule an appointment visit the CASH Oregon website, or call 503-243-7765.

Tax support is available virtually, and in-person at two convenient Beaverton locations. This free service is provided in partnership with the City of Beaverton, CASH Oregon, and Metropolitan Family Services, and is offered in multiple languages. CASH Oregon’s Impuestos Comunitarios program supports the Limited English Proficient Spanish-speaking community. Last year, 250 CASH Oregon IRS-certified volunteer tax preparers helped 6,787 Beaverton area families receive $10.6 million in refunds.

Metro Supportive Housing Services tax—who pays?

Metro supportive housing services taxes went into effect in 2021 and are set to expire in 2030 unless extended by voters. While the revenue stream will fluctuate, the goal was to raise $250 million annually to help end homelessness across greater Portland. Learn more about Metro here.

Do I owe Metro’s supportive housing services tax? Income guidelines will determine that. The tax is 1% on Oregon taxable income above $125,000 for individuals or $200,000 for couples filing jointly (example: line 19 on tax form OR-40); a 1% business income tax on net income for businesses with gross receipts above $5 million.

File by Monday, April 15. SHS taxes are now supported by TurboTax. Metro has contracted with the City of Portland for revenue collection – even outside of Portland – to save administration costs. Pay at pro.portland.gov by Monday, April 15, 2024.

Volunteer to help WashCo improve Translation Quality

Washington County’s Community Language Access Steering Committee is in the process of creating language specific subcommittees to assist with translation. The work of these subcommittees is to verify translated documents in eleven Safe Harbor languages, making sure they are written in plain language, accurate to meaning, and easy to understand. Please apply through the application form. For more information, email Language Access Coordinator Toby Lyons at toby lyons@washingtoncountyor.gov.

This current recruitment is for subcommittees for: Korean, Filipino/Tagalog, Khmer/Cambodian, Persian/Farsi, and Somali. Some people have already been identified for other Safe Harbor languages (Spanish, Vietnamese, Chinese, Arabic, Russian, Japanese). If interested however, applications are still being accepted for these language needs.

Ideally participants would be Washington County residents. Translation experience is valued, but not mandatory. Washington County recognizes the importance of having committee members of varying backgrounds and prioritizes cultural understanding over academic accuracy.

As of now, this project has limited duration funding, likely for the next two years. The Steering Committee meets once or twice per month for one hour. The subcommittees will meet monthly or every other month. Participants will be given a $100 stipend for each meeting they attend.

DEQ extends deadline for comments on Intel’s request

In February we wrote about Intel’s application to Oregon Department of Environmental Quality for permits to increase the pollution they release. We learned that DEQ is extending the public comment period on Intel’s draft air quality permit by one additional week until Friday, March 8, at 5 pm. The methods for comment submittal remain the same. Updated information is available on the Intel project page: ordeq.org/intel

Neighbors Ready! (aka Cedar Hills Ready!)

Did you miss one of the resources mentioned at our Neighbors Ready! (aka Cedar Hills Ready!) go-bag past-meeting? Or did you miss our event entirely? You can review slides and resources from that meeting here.

And here are some summarized blizzard lessons/reminders you had sent us:

If our basic needs aren’t met, our mental acuity and motivation for other tasks will suffer. This can then perpetuate a cycle of struggling to meet our needs. Being able to get warm is a basic need!

Everybody mentioned interest in some form of backup electricity source. From generators to batteries to charging from a vehicle running in the driveway, there are many options and factors to consider. This article and video by Provident Prepper might help you think about how to meet your power needs in future outages.

Communicating with neighbors helped us stay informed and connected, thus mitigating some of the uncertainty, isolation, and in some cases, devastation. Whether neighbors shared information or insulation (ie shelter), it’s another reminder that we’re stronger together.

Finally, the mission of Neighbors Ready! (formerly Cedar Hills Ready!) has remained the same—to create caring, connected, and resilient communities. We are committed to making sure that every neighbor in our communities (in Cedar Hills, and elsewhere) is prepared and has the best chance of survival in the event of a disaster. We expect some folks will still call us by our old name for a time, but we think our new name more clearly represents us and the work we are doing.

Washington County Public Affairs Forum

Monday, March 11, 11:30*-1 pm, Old Spaghetti Factory, 10425 Northeast Tanasbourne Dr, Hillsboro, or join online here

Teri Lenahan, Mayor of North Plains, will talk about what’s going on in their rapidly growing community.

*The room will open at 11:30 to order lunch. The presentation is from noon to 1. Buying lunch is optional but helps us use the room for free (and the food is great!)

Or Join via Zoom. Meeting ID: 833 0340 2352, Passcode: 305754. As a friendly reminder, if the Zoom link isn’t working, an alternative option for accessing any Zoom meeting is to visit the Zoom website directly at www.zoom.com, and perform the following: Near the top right of black bar, click on “Join”; Enter the “Meeting ID” provided above; Enter the “Passcode” when prompted.

Founded in 1956, the Public Affairs Forum provides a common meeting place for the interchange of ideas and to stimulate thinking on civic matters. Each week the Forum brings together community leaders, members, and guests who care about what happens in Washington County, the Metro region, and our state.

The Forum is a neutral arena for education of members and the public by speakers on public policy. The Forum endorses no particular point of view and takes no responsibility for the opinions expressed by speakers, which are not necessarily the opinions of the Forum or its members. Volunteers are needed to help us plan programs, run the website, etc.

Sign up for the newsletter to stay informed. Click on “Speakers” to find out about upcoming and past programs.

Ease food insecurity in Oregon by volunteering or donating

Food insecurity is on the rise in Oregon, and food banks are seeing record numbers of visits from people who need food. 2023 saw 1.9 million visits to food banks in Oregon—a 14% increase from the previous year. Additionally, Black, indigenous and communities of color, immigrants and refugees, single moms and caregivers, and trans and gender expansive communities are two to three times more likely to face hunger and poverty in our region.

If you’d like to help, you can volunteer your time or donate food and/or money. Please call the Oregon Food Bank at 503-419-4166 to learn how and where to donate food items in your area. If you need food, or need to find a food bank near you, use this food finder tool. For more food resources, check out the Oregon Department of Human Services website.

Victim Assistance Program seeks volunteers

For questions and details contact Program Coordinator Kat Wargo at Kat Wargo@washingtoncountyor.gov or call 503-846-3758, or visit the WCDA website

The Washington County District Attorney’s (WCDA) Victim Assistance Program is comprised primarily of victim advocates who guide and support victims through the criminal court process. We help enforce victim’s constitutional and statutory rights, provide court accompaniment, and help normalize symptoms of trauma, while connecting victims with valuable community resources.

We would love the opportunity to come talk with your group/organization about the important and exciting work we do and the benefits of volunteering with the WCDA Victim Assistance Program. We know there are many individuals in Washington County who may have been impacted by crime, who want to give back to their community, who are intrigued by the criminal justice system, who are interested in acquiring practical and professional experience in the field, and who want to gain volunteer experience and a professional reference to add to their resume/college applications.

Explore the possibilities at WCSO

Saturday, April 13, 11-4, WCSO Public Safety Training Center, 600 SW Walnut St, Hillsboro

Get ready for an exclusive glimpse into the Washington County Sheriff’s Office! If you seek a rewarding career with outstanding benefits, now is your chance to explore the possibilities. Join us for the WCSO Career Open House event for valuable insights into what it takes to succeed in this dynamic and fulfilling field.

At the open house, you’ll have the opportunity to meet our dedicated team, engage in interactive demonstrations, and get a close-up look at the day-to-day life of a sheriff’s deputy. We’ll have informative sessions on recruitment, training, and the various uniform and non-uniform career paths available within the WCSO.

Whether you’re a student considering your future career or someone looking to make a change, this event is perfect for anyone interested in law enforcement. Don’t miss this chance to ask questions, gain insights, and discover how a career with the Washington County Sheriff’s Office will support you. Take the first step towards an exciting and rewarding career and learn about being part of our team. We can’t wait to meet you!

Learn about the WCSO Search and Rescue program

Saturday, March 16, 10 am or 5 pm, and Wednesday, April 3, 7 am, Sheriff’s Office, 215 SW Adams Ave, Hillsboro, application deadline is April 20

Join us for an upcoming informational session to learn more! The training teaches young men and women essential life skills and unique insight into the exciting career fields of Law Enforcement, Search and Rescue, and Emergency Medical Services.

This program has an outstanding reputation, and police agencies often call upon its skills throughout Oregon. Members are primarily involved in Search and Rescue missions for lost people, downed aircraft, and evidence in significant crimes.

To participate, volunteers must meet the following requirements: Between the ages of 14-17, Washington County resident, positive community record, good physical health, minimum 2.3 GPA with no failing classes, basic training academy, and a minimum 2-year commitment as an active member

Q&A session for Sheriff’s Office Reserve Program

Saturday, March 23, 1-3 pm, Public Safety Training Center, 600 SW Walnut St, Hillsboro. Register for the Q&A session.

Want to serve your community but can’t make a full-time commitment? Reserve deputies are sworn volunteers who assist full-time patrol deputies in their duties and receive the same high-quality training as their full-time counterparts. Special Reserve coordinators and deputies will be there to answer your questions!

Prevent falls!

March 12, 6:30-8 pm, Beaverton Resource Center, call to schedule: 503-591-9025

Don’t miss our Fall Prevention Class! Discover essential techniques to prevent falls and reap the benefits of a safer, healthier life. Brought to you by Providence. Your well-being matters! For questions and to register call: 503-591-9025

Women Veteran Luncheon

Tuesday, March 19, 11 am-1 pm, Crowne Plaza Portland-Lake Oswego, 14811 Kruse Oaks Drive, free

In celebration of Women’s History Month and Women’s Military History Week in Oregon, the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs, and the Washington, Multnomah and Clackamas County Veteran Services offices are hosting a Women Veteran Luncheon.

The luncheon will uphold this year’s national theme for Women’s History Month: highlighting women who advocate for equity, diversity, and inclusion. Speakers include Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs Director Najeia Council Daniels, Beaverton Mayor Lacey Beaty who served as a combat medic during the Iraq War, became the first woman to serve as mayor in Beaverton, and Hillsboro City Councilor Beach Pace who served as an army captain. She recently announce her bid to run for Mayor of Hillsboro..

Free for women veterans to attend. Attendees must RSVP by March 15. To find out more and reserve a spot, visit womenvets2024.eventbrite.com.

County Advisory Groups recruiting members

Submit applications by March 12

Various boards, committees and commissions advise the Washington County Board of Commissioners on matters of interest to people who live and work in the county. Serving on an appointed board or commission is an opportunity for Washington County residents to participate in decisions that affect them and to learn more about how local government works. More diverse representation is needed in these spaces. For more information on how to apply, please visit the Boards and Commissions webpage.

Summer Camps are here!

Registration Opens Wednesday, March 6, 8 am

Hillsboro Parks & Recreation has Summer Camps for every age and interest. Browse now and save your favorites.

WashCo Bikes Summer Camp registration!

Registration opens March 15, various locations, camps run Monday-Friday, 9 am-3pm, $325

Camps will be broken into two groups based on age: Wheelies, ages 8-10; Cruisers, ages 11-12, with a limit of 15 kids per camp.

Cost is $325, optional deposit of $150.00 due at the time of registration to reserve a spot in a particular camp. The remaining portion of deposit payment is due by June 1st. Scholarships are available—please contact Nancy at Camps@washcobikes.org to request scholarship.

Dates and venues for the 2024 Summer Bike Camps near Cedar Mill: July 15-19. Hillsboro: Griffith Oaks Park; July 22-26, Tigard: Fanno Creek House; July 29-Aug 2, Hillsboro: Griffith Oaks Park; Aug 5-9, Garden Home Rec Center; Aug 12-16, Hillsboro: Griffith Oaks Park.

Learn more about WashCo Bikes here.

Smart Cycling Class: Drivers Ed for Cyclists

See dates below, time TBD, but typically 9 am start, 1 pm end, Willow Creek Park and Ride, 241 Edgeway Drive, Hillsboro, class fee $75

WashCo Bikes offers a two-part class to offer some formal and comprehensive training including traffic laws as they pertain to cyclists. Understand the five Levels of Crash Prevention (and reducing the probability of a crash by up to 90%), learn hazard avoidance maneuvers, and a lot of other cyclist-specific and useful information.

This is not a how-to-ride clinic, but a clinic on how to “drive” your bike. This training was developed by the League of American Bicyclists and is consistent throughout the US. If all cyclists rode in accordance with these teachings, we would be safer, and motorists would know what to expect.

• April 13: Last day to register April 6
• April 27: Last day to register April 20
• May 11: Last day to register May 4
• May 25: Last day to register May 18

Minimum of three students per clinic; Maximum of six students without prior arrangement. Email: classes@washcobike.org for more information.

Five Oaks Museum

Formerly Washington County Museum, Five Oaks is gearing up again after a long hiatus during the pandemic and the resulting staff and other issues. Visit the website to enjoy online exhibitions, learn about the organization and current offerings and events, and join and support the Museum.

Beyond Land Acknowledgement with Steph Littlebird

Saturday, March 23, 10-11 am, $0-$20 sliding scale reserved tickets

Learn more about past and present Native identity, how to look critically at land acknowledgements, and move past words toward action. With the rise in popularity of land acknowledgements, Indigenous artist Steph Littlebird asks us to re-examine this trend and go beyond the statement. What comes after we acknowledge the land and its Native stewards? How can individuals and institutions contribute to lasting changes and be true allies for Indigenous communities? Learn more about past and present Native identity, how to look critically at land acknowledgements, and move past words toward action.

This presentation is geared toward adults and may also be a powerful topic for high school students. In addition to benefitting workplace, institutional, or educational setting, this content can help individuals find meaningful ways to support the land and Native communities through your everyday actions.

Free Family Mornings resume

On select Saturdays from 11am-noon bring the whole family for free museum admission and a hands-on, all-ages workshop led by local artists.

Free Educator Days

Free Educator Tours of the current exhibition, Replenish the Root, as well as museum resource-shares will occur throughout the school year and will be promoted through our educator mailing list. Please contact learning@fiveoaksmuseum.org to get on our educator mailing list for updates. Visit the “Learning” page for more resources.

Discolored water? Don’t panic!

Some neighbors have noticed a slight greenish or brownish tint to their tap water. We asked Tualatin Valley Water about it, and here’s what they said.

Slight discoloration is not a cause for concern and can be the result of naturally occurring tannins in the unfiltered source water we purchase from the Portland Water Bureau. In the fall and winter water can take on a colored tint due to organics in the watershed. More information can be found at www.tvwd.org/wq – there is a page there called “why does my water sometimes look discolored?”

TVWD does not offer general water quality testing for home samples, however,please be assured the water we serve is tested at more than 150 designated sample sites across our service area each month. The water remains safe to drink and meets all State and Federal drinking water regulations.

The Water Quality Report and additional information is available on our website.

Ask WCSO: Sheriff’s Office Warns of phone scammers impersonating officers

Phone scammers continue to be active in our community. One of the most common calls we receive are of individuals who falsely identify themselves as law enforcement officials with the goal of procuring money from victims. Most calls will include the caller informing the victim that they have a warrant for their arrest because of a missed court date, missed jury duty, or unpaid tickets among other excuses, and demand immediate payment, threatening imminent arrest. These callers often use the names of actual law enforcement personnel and may disguise their phone number.

Red flags to watch out for: People claiming to be police or law enforcement; Callers using real phone numbers or names of local law enforcement people to sound legitimate; Request for payment via gift card; Calls from unknown numbers; Requests for bank account information; Strangers asking you to send them a photo of your ID; Threats to wire money or be arrested.

Remember, the Washington County Sheriff’s Office or any other law enforcement agency will NEVER ask for payment over the phone. If you receive such a call or any other suspicious call asking for payment, HANG UP and call non-emergency dispatch at 503-629-0111.

Stay alert to help protect yourself from scams!

Ask WCSO is produced by the Washington County Sheriff’s Department

New way to apply for unemployment in Oregon

As of March 4, 2024, people seeking unemployment benefits will begin using “Frances Online,” a new system built for the state. Employers and the state’s paid leave program already use Frances. Learn more from OPB here.

Oregon’s online system to apply for unemployment insurance is getting an upgrade, a move years in the making as evidence mounted that the Employment Department’s outdated technology was too rigid and confusing for modern-day benefits.

Community Public Safety Forum

Wednesday, April 3, 7:30-9:30 am, Reser Center, 12625 SW Crescent Street, Beaverton, Free with registration

You are invited to participate in a Public Safety Forum, where representatives from the Beaverton Police Department (Captain Mastripolito); Washington County (Sheriff Caprice Massey); Greater Good Northwest (Eboni Brown); City of Beaverton (Assistant City Manager Sia Lindstrom); Beaverton Library (Pubic Services Manager Dawn Borgardt); and others will update us on the efforts to keep our city safe for all. Join us to ask questions and brainstorm solutions.

Hosted by the City of Beaverton and Beaverton Area Chamber of Commerce. Agenda will include brief presentations from the panel with the intention of having engaging, interactive dialogue among attendees for building and strengthening communications among our downtown community. Beverages and continental breakfast included. Visit this page for more information or to register.

Viva Village March events

Viva Village is a Beaverton grassroots organization of members and volunteers who focus on enhancing and expanding the ways we can age well. We provide connections, programs, volunteer services, and referrals so members can lead engaged, healthy lives. Please RSVP for all events by contacting vivavillageevents@gmail.com or 503-746-5082. Links for zoom meetings will be sent to those who RSVP. Members-only events are listed on the Viva Village website and in the web version of The News.

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC:

Online Age Café

Not meeting in March

Women’s Coffee (in person)

Wednesdays in March, 10-11 am. New Seasons Market Cedar Hills, 3495 SW Cedar Hills Boulevard

Coffee and conversation. RSVP recommended.

Online Viva Village 101

Saturday, March 9, 10-11:30 am

An informational session for prospective members, volunteers, or anyone interested in Viva Village. Register on the website or contact the office for the Zoom link.

Online Travel Talk

Monday, March 11, 7-8 pm

Viva Villager Carol Gross takes us on a virtual visit to Poland, the Baltic states, and Russia. RSVP for the Zoom link. Login to register on our website or contact the office.

Viva Village Forum

Monday, March 18, 2-3:30 pm, United Methodist Church, Wesley Room, 12555 SW 4th Street, free

Topic to be announced on our website. Refreshments served. RSVP recommended. Register on the website calendar or contact the Viva Village office.

Men’s Coffee Break

Monday, March 25, 10-11:30 am, Ki Coffee, 4655 SW Griffith Dr. #160

Conversation and coffee. RSVP recommended.

Online Viva Village Book Club

Tuesday, March 26, 1-2:30 pm

Selected book: Simon the Fiddler by Paulette Jiles (sequel to News of the World). RSVP for the Zoom link.

MEMBERS AND VOLUNTEERS ONLY

Viva Village Nature Walk

Saturday, March 2, 9:30 am, Summerlake Park, 11450 SW Winter Lake Drive, Tigard

Enjoy a morning walk with Viva Village friends. RSVP recommended.

Online Tai Chi Classes

Mondays in March, 10-10:45 am

Practice Tai Chi techniques and skills with certified instructor, Richard Chew. RSVP for Zoom link.

Online Mindfulness Meditation Classes

Mondays in March and April 1, 11-11:45 am

Mindful Meditation sessions led by Martha McJacobs. RSVP for the Zoom link.

Online Women’s Coffee

Tuesdays in March, 10-11 am.

Join members and volunteers for a morning of coffee and conversation. RSVP for the Zoom link.

Life Stories

Tuesday, March 12, 2 pm, Southminster Presbyterian Church, 12250 SW Denney Road

My Life as a Dilettante: Viva Villager Jane Brown talks about the roles that art, music, education, and traveling have played in her life, always with the common theme of learning new things along the way. Please RSVP so we have enough refreshments.

Dine Around Beaverton and Beyond

Wednesday, March 13, 1 pm, The Old Spaghetti Factory, 10425 NE Tanasbourne Drive, Hillsboro

Join members and volunteers for lunch and conversation. Wear your Viva Village name badge. Space limited to 15 people. Please notify the office if you need to cancel. RSVP required by 1 pm on Tuesday, March 12. Register on the website or contact the office.

Soup Lunch

Thursday, March 14, 2 pm, private home

A small monthly gathering in a private home to share a meal and conversation. More details coming soon. Limited to 7 participants. RSVP required. Login to register on our website or contact the office. Address sent on registration.

Living Solo

Wednesday, March 20, 1-2:30 pm, Beaverton City Library, Cathy Stanton Room, 12375 SW 5th Street

Note the different time for March only. Meet in person to share experiences, tips, and strategies for living on your own. Bring your own lunch or snack. RSVP appreciated.

Mystery Book Club

Thursday, March 21, 1-2 pm. Viva Village Office, 4905 SW Griffith Drive #104

Selected book: “Payment in Blood,” by Elizabeth George. Space limited to 10. RSVP required to participate. Login to register on the website or contact the office. Please notify the office if you need to cancel.

Online Living Solo

Thursday, March 21, 4-5:30 pm

A time to share experiences, tips, and strategies for living on your own. RSVP for the Zoom link.

Thursday Evening Social Group

Thursday, March 28, 5:30-7:30 pm, Oswego Grill, 3211 SW Cedar Hills Blvd

Enjoy an evening of conversation and dinner with Viva Village friends. RSVP required. Limited to 15 people. Login to register on the website or contact the office. Please notify the office if you need to cancel.