Summer Gathering on August 15th is Canceled Due to COVID-19
"Woah, it's bigger than me!" Checking out the giants at Plumper Pumpkin Patch, host of our Summer Gatherings (Photo: A Latta, PPP)
By Suzanne Perra and Brad Graff
The SRN Summer Gathering scheduled for August 15, 2020, a neighborhood tradition for over 20 years, has been cancelled due to the ongoing pandemic. This is most disappointing, but we need to follow CDC and Multnomah County COVID-19 rules and keep everyone safe and healthy. We will miss the fun competition of the bidding wars at the auction, the good sounds of local live music, seeing the kids at play, the wonderful venue of the Plumper Pumpkin Patch and Tree Farm, the sights and smells of the over-the-top tasty potluck – generously boosted by contributions from the Meating Place. But mostly, we will miss seeing you! Thank you so much to everyone who volunteered for this event. A modified format for the gathering might be possible later this year, when some degree of normalcy has been restored. This would most likely be a community party at Plumper Pumpkin Patch and Tree Farm or an alternate location with no auction or other fundraising.
Thank you to all those who so enthusiastically volunteered and are sure to be disappointed:
The Summer Gathering is SRN’s only fundraiser of the year for our all-volunteer neighborhood organization. It typically brings in about $5000 to support the cost of our website, the email newsline and the printing and mailing costs of the Ridge Runner. If you would like to make a cash donation that you usually make at the Summer Gathering or in lieu of an auction donation, please make checks payable to SRN and send them to Rachael Brake, SRN Treasurer, 14109 NW Rock Creek Rd., Portland, OR 97231
New Email Edition of Skyline Ridge Runner
The Ridge Runner is our quarterly newsletter that is chock full of information that is relevant to our far NW Multnomah County neighborhood. Thank you to Miles Merwin (editor) and Agnes Kwan (layout) for this exceptionally high quality, relevant newsletter! Printed copies are currently mailed to approximately 1100 households within the SRN boundaries and we will continue with that mailing. And PDF copies of current and past issues are always available on the SRN website.
We are looking into bringing a dedicated quarterly Ridge Runner via email to our Skyline Email Newsline subscribers. Shea Lavalier and Emily Bennett are in the process of joining the SRN Board and have volunteered to lead this effort. They are currently working with a focus team to determine tools, costs and format. We will also continue to mail our SRN Ridge Runner paper versions and you can access current and past Ridge Runners on srnpdx.org. To subscribe to the Skyline Email Newsline and to receive future quarterly Ridge Runners via email, go to srnpdx.org and select the Get the Newsline option or contact Laurel Erhardt at newsline@srnpdx.org.
SRN Neighborhood Support
SRN plans to sponsor the Garlic Mustard Disposal effort this year as well as the purchase of a large storage container for the Skyline NET Team. The SRN sponsored SOLVE cleanup event in April was cancelled due to COVID 19. If possible, please monitor and pick up trash on the side of the road along your property and possibly neighboring properties to keep our neighborhood clean. SOLVE will be back in full force next year.
The SRN Summer Gathering scheduled for August 15, 2020, a neighborhood tradition for over 20 years, has been cancelled due to the ongoing pandemic. This is most disappointing, but we need to follow CDC and Multnomah County COVID-19 rules and keep everyone safe and healthy. We will miss the fun competition of the bidding wars at the auction, the good sounds of local live music, seeing the kids at play, the wonderful venue of the Plumper Pumpkin Patch and Tree Farm, the sights and smells of the over-the-top tasty potluck – generously boosted by contributions from the Meating Place. But mostly, we will miss seeing you! Thank you so much to everyone who volunteered for this event. A modified format for the gathering might be possible later this year, when some degree of normalcy has been restored. This would most likely be a community party at Plumper Pumpkin Patch and Tree Farm or an alternate location with no auction or other fundraising.
Thank you to all those who so enthusiastically volunteered and are sure to be disappointed:
- Auction Co-chairs (and Activity Leaders): Suzanne Perra and Brad Graff
- Activity Leaders: Laura Watts, Sen Speroff, Valerie Driscoll, Rachael Brake, George Sowder, Lisa Graff and Alex Rose
- Auctioneer: Rich Edwards
- Band: Cindy Lou Banks and the Brooks Hill Band
- Quilt: Tracy Waters and Cindi Cramer
- Venue: Plumper Pumpkin Patch and Tree Farm
- Main Course: The Meating Place
The Summer Gathering is SRN’s only fundraiser of the year for our all-volunteer neighborhood organization. It typically brings in about $5000 to support the cost of our website, the email newsline and the printing and mailing costs of the Ridge Runner. If you would like to make a cash donation that you usually make at the Summer Gathering or in lieu of an auction donation, please make checks payable to SRN and send them to Rachael Brake, SRN Treasurer, 14109 NW Rock Creek Rd., Portland, OR 97231
New Email Edition of Skyline Ridge Runner
The Ridge Runner is our quarterly newsletter that is chock full of information that is relevant to our far NW Multnomah County neighborhood. Thank you to Miles Merwin (editor) and Agnes Kwan (layout) for this exceptionally high quality, relevant newsletter! Printed copies are currently mailed to approximately 1100 households within the SRN boundaries and we will continue with that mailing. And PDF copies of current and past issues are always available on the SRN website.
We are looking into bringing a dedicated quarterly Ridge Runner via email to our Skyline Email Newsline subscribers. Shea Lavalier and Emily Bennett are in the process of joining the SRN Board and have volunteered to lead this effort. They are currently working with a focus team to determine tools, costs and format. We will also continue to mail our SRN Ridge Runner paper versions and you can access current and past Ridge Runners on srnpdx.org. To subscribe to the Skyline Email Newsline and to receive future quarterly Ridge Runners via email, go to srnpdx.org and select the Get the Newsline option or contact Laurel Erhardt at newsline@srnpdx.org.
SRN Neighborhood Support
SRN plans to sponsor the Garlic Mustard Disposal effort this year as well as the purchase of a large storage container for the Skyline NET Team. The SRN sponsored SOLVE cleanup event in April was cancelled due to COVID 19. If possible, please monitor and pick up trash on the side of the road along your property and possibly neighboring properties to keep our neighborhood clean. SOLVE will be back in full force next year.
Construction on Cornelius Pass Set to Resume on July 13th
By Miles Merwin
Work to finish two major projects on Cornelius Pass Road is about to begin. According to Mike Pullen of Multnomah Co., the contractor is planning to close Corn Pass between Skyline and Hwy 30 on Monday, July 13. The target date for completion, he said, is Sept. 30. During construction, that section of Corn Pass Road will be completely closed to all through traffic.
The two projects that didn’t get done last year are re-alignment of the S-curves north of Skyline Blvd., and replacement of the culvert at NW 8th Avenue. The in-water work to replace the culvert must be completed between July and September due to a fish-bearing stream crossing. The full width of the road will be excavated at that point, requiring a complete road closure at 8th Ave.
Once again, detours for cars and trucks will be put in place. The detour route for cars around the closure from Highway 30 will be Newberry Road to Skyline Blvd. to Cornelius Pass Road. As in 2019, trucks must detour and will not be permitted on Skyline or Newberry unless they are making a delivery there. If you see large trucks using these side roads, try to get the license plate and company name, and then report this to Sheriff’s Deputy McGarry (david.mcgarry@mcso.us or leave a message at 503.793.8923).
Work to finish two major projects on Cornelius Pass Road is about to begin. According to Mike Pullen of Multnomah Co., the contractor is planning to close Corn Pass between Skyline and Hwy 30 on Monday, July 13. The target date for completion, he said, is Sept. 30. During construction, that section of Corn Pass Road will be completely closed to all through traffic.
The two projects that didn’t get done last year are re-alignment of the S-curves north of Skyline Blvd., and replacement of the culvert at NW 8th Avenue. The in-water work to replace the culvert must be completed between July and September due to a fish-bearing stream crossing. The full width of the road will be excavated at that point, requiring a complete road closure at 8th Ave.
Once again, detours for cars and trucks will be put in place. The detour route for cars around the closure from Highway 30 will be Newberry Road to Skyline Blvd. to Cornelius Pass Road. As in 2019, trucks must detour and will not be permitted on Skyline or Newberry unless they are making a delivery there. If you see large trucks using these side roads, try to get the license plate and company name, and then report this to Sheriff’s Deputy McGarry (david.mcgarry@mcso.us or leave a message at 503.793.8923).
Life on the Hill
Mask Making in our 'Hood
By Tracy Waters and Laurel Harroun
It all started when pal Sen connected me with the Kaiser Midwives. It was early March, and we were at the onset of a pandemic. They’re expecting 300 new babies in April and they’re short on masks. Would I make sixteen to start? What kind? What size? Midwives sent me to YouTube. “Sure, I can build you some of those.” Three layers, room for a paper filter. Who needs elastic? We can make the ties. Yes, there IS wire for nose pieces. “Laurel, can you come up and help me?” For years Laurel has cheered me on about the sewing projects but has never reached over to help. But during quarantine she risked scorching her untrained fingers and learned to fold those skinny strips three times, so I could stitch them securely. Then she negotiated that spool of wire into the malleable nose pieces required to make those masks fit.
Sixteen done for the Kaiser Midwives, what about our friends and neighbors? Sharon Barthmaier wanted one too and offered to write a check to the Oregon Food Bank in trade. Whatta concept! Sure! What color do you like? RED. I’ve got some of that. And so it began in earnest.We made masks for our friends in town. We made masks for our pals at the Grange. Once complete, we made plans to meet folks at their mailboxes for deliveries. As we bestowed them I stuck out my hand and asked for Food Bank money. People have been SO generous.
One Sunday, we gathered with others to “drive by celebrate” Donald Jenkins' birthday. I’ve made an effort to individualize those masks to reflect the passions of the wearer. But that morning there were some attractive but “extras” which didn’t have potential partners. I brought them along and worked the crowd. I managed to extract another $60.00 from that lovely bunch of folks. Laurel took that cash and went to two grocery stores for fresh fruit and vegetables. She learned that the Linnton Food Pantry had been flooded with requests. They usually served 35 families each Tuesday but the previous week they’d been slammed. 95 families had needed help and all the stuff was in a can or a bag. There was very little fresh anything. So she dropped off those items on that Monday. They’re the nicest folks down there and were SO grateful.
I’ve kept sewing. It’s quarantine, folks are still in need, so what else is there to do? It’s important to note that fellow Granger and quilter extraordinaire Cindi Cramer has donated acres of fabric for this project. Whenever I don’t have the exact thing for that person I reach out to her, visit the Cramer Resource Center and she lets me harvest the perfect piece of fabric for that person. Thank you Cindi!!! Then the orders started to pile up. Bobbie wants ten. Sara wants ten. Laura wants 3 more. I broadened my circle and asked clients in Forest Grove if they needed masks. Our niece in Nebraska would like 5, please. Now, we’re up to 138 completed masks and when that check from Nebraska arrives we will have generated $2045.00 for the Oregon Food Bank.
Thank you to EVERYONE who chipped in to help! Yes, I’ll accept more orders, twenty bucks each to the Food Bank, if you can?
It all started when pal Sen connected me with the Kaiser Midwives. It was early March, and we were at the onset of a pandemic. They’re expecting 300 new babies in April and they’re short on masks. Would I make sixteen to start? What kind? What size? Midwives sent me to YouTube. “Sure, I can build you some of those.” Three layers, room for a paper filter. Who needs elastic? We can make the ties. Yes, there IS wire for nose pieces. “Laurel, can you come up and help me?” For years Laurel has cheered me on about the sewing projects but has never reached over to help. But during quarantine she risked scorching her untrained fingers and learned to fold those skinny strips three times, so I could stitch them securely. Then she negotiated that spool of wire into the malleable nose pieces required to make those masks fit.
Sixteen done for the Kaiser Midwives, what about our friends and neighbors? Sharon Barthmaier wanted one too and offered to write a check to the Oregon Food Bank in trade. Whatta concept! Sure! What color do you like? RED. I’ve got some of that. And so it began in earnest.We made masks for our friends in town. We made masks for our pals at the Grange. Once complete, we made plans to meet folks at their mailboxes for deliveries. As we bestowed them I stuck out my hand and asked for Food Bank money. People have been SO generous.
One Sunday, we gathered with others to “drive by celebrate” Donald Jenkins' birthday. I’ve made an effort to individualize those masks to reflect the passions of the wearer. But that morning there were some attractive but “extras” which didn’t have potential partners. I brought them along and worked the crowd. I managed to extract another $60.00 from that lovely bunch of folks. Laurel took that cash and went to two grocery stores for fresh fruit and vegetables. She learned that the Linnton Food Pantry had been flooded with requests. They usually served 35 families each Tuesday but the previous week they’d been slammed. 95 families had needed help and all the stuff was in a can or a bag. There was very little fresh anything. So she dropped off those items on that Monday. They’re the nicest folks down there and were SO grateful.
I’ve kept sewing. It’s quarantine, folks are still in need, so what else is there to do? It’s important to note that fellow Granger and quilter extraordinaire Cindi Cramer has donated acres of fabric for this project. Whenever I don’t have the exact thing for that person I reach out to her, visit the Cramer Resource Center and she lets me harvest the perfect piece of fabric for that person. Thank you Cindi!!! Then the orders started to pile up. Bobbie wants ten. Sara wants ten. Laura wants 3 more. I broadened my circle and asked clients in Forest Grove if they needed masks. Our niece in Nebraska would like 5, please. Now, we’re up to 138 completed masks and when that check from Nebraska arrives we will have generated $2045.00 for the Oregon Food Bank.
Thank you to EVERYONE who chipped in to help! Yes, I’ll accept more orders, twenty bucks each to the Food Bank, if you can?
Life on the Hill
My Pandemic "Experience"...
By Laurel Erhardt
….for me is turning out very, very nice. I kinda don’t feel it’s right to share. But so far, (knock on wood) I really am enjoying this quiet time in the world. Don’t get me wrong, I think Covid-19 is a big deal and we all need to do all we can to get through this as safely as possible. I think of those families with kids who live on a 5th floor apartment banned from playgrounds and friends, feel bad for those trying to manage compromised immune systems, all the parents pushed into home schooling and the “students” struggling with frustrated “teachers,” the lost celebration for the 2020 grads, the lost jobs (hell – there’s whole lost industries!), the unemployment claim mess, the devastation to financial income, the healthcare workers working to death then coming home and stressing over spreading germs to their families … The sad list is endless. It’s devastating.
But since you asked about my pandemic experience, I’ll share. I retired at the beginning of February. A really new page in life after decades of working and I had a clean slate. No obligations. No alarm clock. No fancy plans. No desire to see the world, go on a cruise or climb a mountain. My favorite vacation spot? Home. You see, I am a homebody, a reclusive introvert. I loved my coworkers, my friends and people in general, but I am not a party animal. I pretty much pass on every party invite. (I gave up coming up with excuses; I just shortened it to “sorry, can’t make it.”) I actually like being home alone.
As the days ticked off after my last day of work, I’ll admit, I was a bit apprehensive with nothing to dictate my day for the first time in over 40 years beyond letting the dog out. But day after day, I just became more settled into this idle life. At the same time the pandemic was growing. Everything was shutting down. Although I am deeply concerned over the whole situation, the orders of “Stay Home! Stay Safe!” were music to my ears!
I hate shopping. I might go to the store once a week. I’ve never been a big fan of eating out so I’m not missing that. I like working in the yard. I’m connected with family via 21st century fancy stuff. The traffic has reduced to what it was 40 years ago. The skies are quieter and bluer. The mountains are clearer. The view has never been this spectacular! I’ve identified so many more birds in my yard. Many by hearing their songs that I now clearly hear in this new, quieter world that surrounds us. I get just enough conversation with the occasional neighbor walking by. And I’m reminded again what a great neighborhood we live in as I experience, and hear stories of, neighbors helping neighbors. “Do you need anything?” “Can I get you anything?” “How you guys doin’?” I even know folks offering up their toilet paper! I am very, very blessed and very, very grateful. The pandemic will eventually pass and I may live through it. I’ll be so glad that it’s over but I will also reminisce over these beautifully quiet days.
….for me is turning out very, very nice. I kinda don’t feel it’s right to share. But so far, (knock on wood) I really am enjoying this quiet time in the world. Don’t get me wrong, I think Covid-19 is a big deal and we all need to do all we can to get through this as safely as possible. I think of those families with kids who live on a 5th floor apartment banned from playgrounds and friends, feel bad for those trying to manage compromised immune systems, all the parents pushed into home schooling and the “students” struggling with frustrated “teachers,” the lost celebration for the 2020 grads, the lost jobs (hell – there’s whole lost industries!), the unemployment claim mess, the devastation to financial income, the healthcare workers working to death then coming home and stressing over spreading germs to their families … The sad list is endless. It’s devastating.
But since you asked about my pandemic experience, I’ll share. I retired at the beginning of February. A really new page in life after decades of working and I had a clean slate. No obligations. No alarm clock. No fancy plans. No desire to see the world, go on a cruise or climb a mountain. My favorite vacation spot? Home. You see, I am a homebody, a reclusive introvert. I loved my coworkers, my friends and people in general, but I am not a party animal. I pretty much pass on every party invite. (I gave up coming up with excuses; I just shortened it to “sorry, can’t make it.”) I actually like being home alone.
As the days ticked off after my last day of work, I’ll admit, I was a bit apprehensive with nothing to dictate my day for the first time in over 40 years beyond letting the dog out. But day after day, I just became more settled into this idle life. At the same time the pandemic was growing. Everything was shutting down. Although I am deeply concerned over the whole situation, the orders of “Stay Home! Stay Safe!” were music to my ears!
I hate shopping. I might go to the store once a week. I’ve never been a big fan of eating out so I’m not missing that. I like working in the yard. I’m connected with family via 21st century fancy stuff. The traffic has reduced to what it was 40 years ago. The skies are quieter and bluer. The mountains are clearer. The view has never been this spectacular! I’ve identified so many more birds in my yard. Many by hearing their songs that I now clearly hear in this new, quieter world that surrounds us. I get just enough conversation with the occasional neighbor walking by. And I’m reminded again what a great neighborhood we live in as I experience, and hear stories of, neighbors helping neighbors. “Do you need anything?” “Can I get you anything?” “How you guys doin’?” I even know folks offering up their toilet paper! I am very, very blessed and very, very grateful. The pandemic will eventually pass and I may live through it. I’ll be so glad that it’s over but I will also reminisce over these beautifully quiet days.
Public Service
Skyline Residents and WMSWCD Respond to Garlic Mustard Threat
By Sen Speroff
For the past 13 springs, Skyline Resident-Based Garlic Mustard Control Effort has encouraged local residents to monitor for and pull garlic mustard. This year, residents pulled over 820 pounds of garlic mustard. SRN generously paid for its disposal guaranteeing it will never again see the light of day. West Multnomah Soil & Water Conservation District (WMSWCD) has been extremely busy. It (and its contractors) has hand pulled over 3,000 pounds. It responded to requests by landowners to have their properties assessed for garlic mustard, and if necessary, treated. WMSWCD treated areas marked by local volunteers who deemed infestations too large or the terrain too difficult for them to pull.
For the most part, garlic mustard has been limited to areas south of Newberry. The exception to that is a large infestation in the 13000 block of Skyline which WMSWCD has treated for several years. Elk and deer roam through this area, increasing the likelihood of seeds being spread to other properties. Residents in that area should be hypervigilant and monitor their properties for garlic mustard, especially early next spring when the second-year plants are easy to identify. If you need help discerning whether you have garlic mustard plants, contact Michelle Delepine at michelle@wmswcd.org.
A Bit of Humor
I’d be the first one to admit my writings about this serious threat to our Skyline native habitat is disturbing and rather dry reading. Even our roadside signs saying “Garlic Mustard: BAD” portend potential disaster. Well, it seems a witty person decided to lighten up the gravity of our signs. Several years ago, a sign popped up next to one of our roadside signs saying “Honey Mustard: Good.” This year more humorous signs appeared giving levity to our somber signs. It is good to know at least one individual out there has not lost his/her humor in a time of oversaturated seriousness. Whoever you are, thank you.
For the past 13 springs, Skyline Resident-Based Garlic Mustard Control Effort has encouraged local residents to monitor for and pull garlic mustard. This year, residents pulled over 820 pounds of garlic mustard. SRN generously paid for its disposal guaranteeing it will never again see the light of day. West Multnomah Soil & Water Conservation District (WMSWCD) has been extremely busy. It (and its contractors) has hand pulled over 3,000 pounds. It responded to requests by landowners to have their properties assessed for garlic mustard, and if necessary, treated. WMSWCD treated areas marked by local volunteers who deemed infestations too large or the terrain too difficult for them to pull.
For the most part, garlic mustard has been limited to areas south of Newberry. The exception to that is a large infestation in the 13000 block of Skyline which WMSWCD has treated for several years. Elk and deer roam through this area, increasing the likelihood of seeds being spread to other properties. Residents in that area should be hypervigilant and monitor their properties for garlic mustard, especially early next spring when the second-year plants are easy to identify. If you need help discerning whether you have garlic mustard plants, contact Michelle Delepine at michelle@wmswcd.org.
A Bit of Humor
I’d be the first one to admit my writings about this serious threat to our Skyline native habitat is disturbing and rather dry reading. Even our roadside signs saying “Garlic Mustard: BAD” portend potential disaster. Well, it seems a witty person decided to lighten up the gravity of our signs. Several years ago, a sign popped up next to one of our roadside signs saying “Honey Mustard: Good.” This year more humorous signs appeared giving levity to our somber signs. It is good to know at least one individual out there has not lost his/her humor in a time of oversaturated seriousness. Whoever you are, thank you.
Public Service
Skyline Ridge NET het Community in Pandemic Response
By Rachael Brake
The pandemic has affected the NET organization along with the rest of our state. In person meetings and trainings have been cancelled/postponed but there is an update call weekly for all NET members; those calls are being expanded to include “tabletop” training sessions. NET members have been volunteering in the community as well; you may not have heard about it but there is an “Emergency Coordination Center” (Portland ECC) for the City of Portland. It was activated at the onset of the local COVID-19 crisis and has been staffed by NET volunteers. One of the first steps the NET organization took was to donate to first responders all of the N95 masks and other health care supplies that were in their supply stashes.
Our primary task is to inform our neighbors that the best source of pandemic information can be found at https://multco.us/novel-coronavirus-covid-19. NET team members have also been helping with distribution of informational posters, helping at-risk neighbors with grocery shopping and other errands, with health care supply distribution. Some NET members have volunteered to be contact tracers for Multnomah County during the re-opening of the county. In short, NET volunteers are still out there working for the community. Questions? Email Skyline Ridge NET at SkylineRidgeNET@gmail.com or contact Rachael Brake, Team Leader, at 503.621.3423.
Deadline for Water Challenge Extended
In previous Ridge Runners, Skyline Ridge NET challenged at least 300 local households to take the Water Storage Challenge. With the current situation, we feel that the deadline should be extended for the life of the pandemic.
During a disaster, people are often left desperate for clean, safe water. We can live without food for days, but our bodies require water. Store at least 14-days of water for each member of your household and your animals. Then let Skyline Ridge NET know you have completed this by emailing skylineridgeNET@gmail.com with your address, gallons of stored potable water, gallons of non-potable water, number of adults, children & pets. (This personal information will not be shared, but used solely for data collection of this Challenge.)
For information about how to store water safely, go to https://www.regionalh2o.org/emergency-preparedness. This website is very informative.
The pandemic has affected the NET organization along with the rest of our state. In person meetings and trainings have been cancelled/postponed but there is an update call weekly for all NET members; those calls are being expanded to include “tabletop” training sessions. NET members have been volunteering in the community as well; you may not have heard about it but there is an “Emergency Coordination Center” (Portland ECC) for the City of Portland. It was activated at the onset of the local COVID-19 crisis and has been staffed by NET volunteers. One of the first steps the NET organization took was to donate to first responders all of the N95 masks and other health care supplies that were in their supply stashes.
Our primary task is to inform our neighbors that the best source of pandemic information can be found at https://multco.us/novel-coronavirus-covid-19. NET team members have also been helping with distribution of informational posters, helping at-risk neighbors with grocery shopping and other errands, with health care supply distribution. Some NET members have volunteered to be contact tracers for Multnomah County during the re-opening of the county. In short, NET volunteers are still out there working for the community. Questions? Email Skyline Ridge NET at SkylineRidgeNET@gmail.com or contact Rachael Brake, Team Leader, at 503.621.3423.
Deadline for Water Challenge Extended
In previous Ridge Runners, Skyline Ridge NET challenged at least 300 local households to take the Water Storage Challenge. With the current situation, we feel that the deadline should be extended for the life of the pandemic.
During a disaster, people are often left desperate for clean, safe water. We can live without food for days, but our bodies require water. Store at least 14-days of water for each member of your household and your animals. Then let Skyline Ridge NET know you have completed this by emailing skylineridgeNET@gmail.com with your address, gallons of stored potable water, gallons of non-potable water, number of adults, children & pets. (This personal information will not be shared, but used solely for data collection of this Challenge.)
For information about how to store water safely, go to https://www.regionalh2o.org/emergency-preparedness. This website is very informative.
Skyline Grange News
Skyline Grange Adapts Activities to our Changing World
By Sen Speroff
Due to the pandemic, a lot has changed at the Grange. Our annual Tree & Native Plant Sale was significantly limited; we only filled pre-orders for native plants. We sold over 1500 plants to 39 grateful customers. The native plant nurseries – Bosky-Dell Natives, Sauvie Island Natives, and Scappoose Bay Watershed Council Nursery - were as appreciative of the business as we were that they were open. It was heartwarming to hear former customers talk about their apple tree production, the joy of seeing their trillium bloom, the awe of insect life in their planted native hedgerow, and particularly this year, the peace that digging in the soil brings to the soul. We look forward to a year when the full sale, including bare-root trees and shrubs, can again occur.
Our Grange's 80th birthday was celebrated by a simple acknowledgment of it at the April monthly meeting held in the parking lot with social distancing and masks - no cake, no dance, no fanfare.
All spring rentals of retirement parties, weddings, and other gatherings have been canceled. Poekoelan classes and Sewing Circle have not met.
Steve Hennig, a newer member of the Grange, recently passed away. He just showed up at one of our meetings and announced he wanted to join. Steve always arrived for Grange meetings and events early to help set up (never saying he would come in advance, but just did). Steve made the most delicious deer stew for our community soup supper (again, never said he would come in advance, but just did). We will deeply miss his gruff, no-nonsense demeanor with a "tender" heart on the inside.
What is Happening: Yoga
We have taken advantage of sunnier weather and a beautiful setting to sponsor Yoga at Skyline Grange outdoors. We are fortunate to have Janci Vandenberg teach. Janci is a local resident and has taught in the Portland area for over 20 years. Each Sunday at 5 p.m., Janci posts the class times for the upcoming week based upon the latest weather forecast. Participants must register for a spot to attend at www.yogainalignment.com. Securing a place is on a first-come, first-served basis. At this point, classes are limited to 9 participants based on Multnomah County & State COVID requirements. Also, face masks and physical distancing are mandatory while on Grange premises. However, one's own yoga mat is a mask-free zone. The ground is a bit uneven, but the outdoor atmosphere is perfect - birds and local chickens serenade, an eagle may fly over, trees inspire yoga tree poses, and a light breeze and sunlight enliven.
What is NOT Happening
According to the CDC, a second wave of coronavirus could coincide with the start of flu season; that could be even more devastating than the COVID-19 pandemic we've been going through since March. In light of the pandemic and the recession, we have canceled our October Fall Garage Sale and Community Soup Supper. We are not accepting any additional garage sale donations presently.
At present, we are not accepting any rental applications. Whether there will be a Holiday Artisan Fair is yet to be determined.
Though it will put a major dent into our long-term capital improvement funding, Skyline Grange is fortunate to have savings that will get us through this period. Yup, that long-anticipated restroom on the main floor has to wait even longer.
Join Skyline Grange
Grange is a non-partisan, non-sectarian, non-profit, and a totally volunteer-driven organization. We are a diverse group of people with the common belief that we are fortunate to live in the Skyline area and want to support its well-being. We take seriously the fact that our building is a community asset as a gathering place. Our impact, activities, and accomplishments depend upon our members and community volunteers.
Working together binds us together, though the pandemic certainly has curtailed our activities. We still try to meet monthly, usually on the second Monday of each month at 7:30 p.m., now weather permitting since we are outdoors. You can contact the Grange at SkylineGrange894@msn.com and for rental inquiries in the future at skylinegrange894@gmail.com. Skyline Grange is located at 11275 NW Skyline Boulevard. Our website is https://www.srnpdx.org/grange.html and our Facebook page is at https://www.facebook.com/Skyline-Grange-894-169559023662398/.
Due to the pandemic, a lot has changed at the Grange. Our annual Tree & Native Plant Sale was significantly limited; we only filled pre-orders for native plants. We sold over 1500 plants to 39 grateful customers. The native plant nurseries – Bosky-Dell Natives, Sauvie Island Natives, and Scappoose Bay Watershed Council Nursery - were as appreciative of the business as we were that they were open. It was heartwarming to hear former customers talk about their apple tree production, the joy of seeing their trillium bloom, the awe of insect life in their planted native hedgerow, and particularly this year, the peace that digging in the soil brings to the soul. We look forward to a year when the full sale, including bare-root trees and shrubs, can again occur.
Our Grange's 80th birthday was celebrated by a simple acknowledgment of it at the April monthly meeting held in the parking lot with social distancing and masks - no cake, no dance, no fanfare.
All spring rentals of retirement parties, weddings, and other gatherings have been canceled. Poekoelan classes and Sewing Circle have not met.
Steve Hennig, a newer member of the Grange, recently passed away. He just showed up at one of our meetings and announced he wanted to join. Steve always arrived for Grange meetings and events early to help set up (never saying he would come in advance, but just did). Steve made the most delicious deer stew for our community soup supper (again, never said he would come in advance, but just did). We will deeply miss his gruff, no-nonsense demeanor with a "tender" heart on the inside.
What is Happening: Yoga
We have taken advantage of sunnier weather and a beautiful setting to sponsor Yoga at Skyline Grange outdoors. We are fortunate to have Janci Vandenberg teach. Janci is a local resident and has taught in the Portland area for over 20 years. Each Sunday at 5 p.m., Janci posts the class times for the upcoming week based upon the latest weather forecast. Participants must register for a spot to attend at www.yogainalignment.com. Securing a place is on a first-come, first-served basis. At this point, classes are limited to 9 participants based on Multnomah County & State COVID requirements. Also, face masks and physical distancing are mandatory while on Grange premises. However, one's own yoga mat is a mask-free zone. The ground is a bit uneven, but the outdoor atmosphere is perfect - birds and local chickens serenade, an eagle may fly over, trees inspire yoga tree poses, and a light breeze and sunlight enliven.
What is NOT Happening
According to the CDC, a second wave of coronavirus could coincide with the start of flu season; that could be even more devastating than the COVID-19 pandemic we've been going through since March. In light of the pandemic and the recession, we have canceled our October Fall Garage Sale and Community Soup Supper. We are not accepting any additional garage sale donations presently.
At present, we are not accepting any rental applications. Whether there will be a Holiday Artisan Fair is yet to be determined.
Though it will put a major dent into our long-term capital improvement funding, Skyline Grange is fortunate to have savings that will get us through this period. Yup, that long-anticipated restroom on the main floor has to wait even longer.
Join Skyline Grange
Grange is a non-partisan, non-sectarian, non-profit, and a totally volunteer-driven organization. We are a diverse group of people with the common belief that we are fortunate to live in the Skyline area and want to support its well-being. We take seriously the fact that our building is a community asset as a gathering place. Our impact, activities, and accomplishments depend upon our members and community volunteers.
Working together binds us together, though the pandemic certainly has curtailed our activities. We still try to meet monthly, usually on the second Monday of each month at 7:30 p.m., now weather permitting since we are outdoors. You can contact the Grange at SkylineGrange894@msn.com and for rental inquiries in the future at skylinegrange894@gmail.com. Skyline Grange is located at 11275 NW Skyline Boulevard. Our website is https://www.srnpdx.org/grange.html and our Facebook page is at https://www.facebook.com/Skyline-Grange-894-169559023662398/.
Classifieds
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WriteBright: Full spectrum writing, editing and research service. Prize-winning poet, editor and journalist, Oregon Book Award finalist, will help you put your best words forward. Projects large and small- from speechwriting, copyediting, newsletters and resumes toworks of fiction and poetry, memoirs and family history. Contact Barbara LaMorticella, 503.621.9894, barbala@ teleport.com.
Dog Boarding. Experienced, Loving Care For Your Dog. Home all day, large fenced yard. 30+ years experience, Pet First Aid and CPR certified. Senior and special needs dog experience. I will provide excellent care for your dog. For more info, pictures and to contact, go to: https://www. rover.com/sit/jang58326. Phoenix Farm Riding School. English horse riding lessons for the whole family. All ages and ability levels welcome! Day-off-school camps. Summer camps. Parties and special events. Located on the corner of Skyline Blvd. & Rock Creek Rd. Call/text 541.914.4254, email 13phoenixfarm13@gmail.com. |
Indonesian Martial Arts Training. Poekoelan is a “soft” art, with emphasis on personal self-defense in real life situations. Terrific exercise for the entire family regardless of current fitness level. All ages are welcome. Tuesdays & Thursdays at Skyline Grange, 6:30 pm – 7:30 pm. Suggested donation $5/person/lesson. For more info, contact Bantoe Christina Traunweiser, 503.307.1913.
Owen West Electric. Our specialty is service and panel changes, kitchen and bath remodels, security, and yard lighting. 30 years of experience. CCB #29492. 503.297.6375 Office, 503.880.9512 Cell Borrow tool to eliminate Scotch broom, holly & other woody shrubs and sapling trees easily. SRN will lend 3 sizes of Weed Wrench. Contact Sen 503.621.3331 for large & medium size (Skyline near mile marker 15). Contact Laura 503.407.7175 for small size (McNamee Rd.). |
Thanks for Your Donations!
Many thanks to the following neighbors and friends who recently made cash donations to SRN:
~ Suzanne & Andre Perra
~ Sharon Barthmaier
~ Kristin Rader
~ Marilyn & Michael Oliver
SRN relies on the financial support of the Skyline community to pursue its nonprofit, educational mission. We operate entirely on the volunteer efforts of neighbors like you. Donations are tax-deductible and always appreciated! Please make checks payable to SRN and send them to Rachael Brake, SRN Treasurer, 14109 NW Rock Creek Rd., Portland, OR 97231. Thank you
Many thanks to the following neighbors and friends who recently made cash donations to SRN:
~ Suzanne & Andre Perra
~ Sharon Barthmaier
~ Kristin Rader
~ Marilyn & Michael Oliver
SRN relies on the financial support of the Skyline community to pursue its nonprofit, educational mission. We operate entirely on the volunteer efforts of neighbors like you. Donations are tax-deductible and always appreciated! Please make checks payable to SRN and send them to Rachael Brake, SRN Treasurer, 14109 NW Rock Creek Rd., Portland, OR 97231. Thank you
Skyline Ridge Runner
Editor: Miles Merwin
Contributing Editor: Laura Foster
Page Composition & Graphics: Agnes Kwan
Copy Editor: Libby Merwin
Printing & Mailing: City of Portland, Metro Presort
Contributors: Suzanne Perra, Brad Graff, Tracy Waters, Lau- rel Harroun, Laurel Erhardt, Sen Speroff, Rachael Brake
Send comments, articles, opinions and advertising requests to the Ridge Runner, 14416 NW Skyline Blvd., Portland,
OR 97231, ridgerunner@srnpdx.org, or fax to 503.621.3450. Deadlines for all submissions are the 15th day of March, June, September, and December unless otherwise announced. Letters to the Editor are welcome, but must include your name and phone number for verification. Letters may be edited for length.
➜ Deadline for the next issue is September 15
Skyline Ridge Neighbors Inc.
Skyline Ridge Neighbors is a nonprofit organization serving rural northwestern Multnomah County through educational, environmental, and social programs that inform residents on relevant issues and events. SRN endeavors to better our community, encourage volunteer efforts, and openly communicate with residents and outside organizations.
SRN Board of Directors
Skyline Rural Watch Newsline
Subscribe to SRN’s weekly email newsletter of local events and news via the link at www.srnpdx.org. Contact the Editor, Laurel Erhardt, at newsline@srnpdx.org or 503.621.3501 to submit items for publication
SRN Website
Visit www.srnpdx.org for more news, photos and information about our community. If you have questions or comments, contact the Webmaster, Agnes Kwan, at webmaster@srnpdx.org.
The views and opinions presented herein are those of the authors and are not necessarily endorsed by SRN or Skyline neighborhood residents.
Editor: Miles Merwin
Contributing Editor: Laura Foster
Page Composition & Graphics: Agnes Kwan
Copy Editor: Libby Merwin
Printing & Mailing: City of Portland, Metro Presort
Contributors: Suzanne Perra, Brad Graff, Tracy Waters, Lau- rel Harroun, Laurel Erhardt, Sen Speroff, Rachael Brake
Send comments, articles, opinions and advertising requests to the Ridge Runner, 14416 NW Skyline Blvd., Portland,
OR 97231, ridgerunner@srnpdx.org, or fax to 503.621.3450. Deadlines for all submissions are the 15th day of March, June, September, and December unless otherwise announced. Letters to the Editor are welcome, but must include your name and phone number for verification. Letters may be edited for length.
➜ Deadline for the next issue is September 15
Skyline Ridge Neighbors Inc.
Skyline Ridge Neighbors is a nonprofit organization serving rural northwestern Multnomah County through educational, environmental, and social programs that inform residents on relevant issues and events. SRN endeavors to better our community, encourage volunteer efforts, and openly communicate with residents and outside organizations.
SRN Board of Directors
- Laurel Erhardt - President & Secretary - 503.621.3501, 970.804.1667 - president@srnpdx.org, secretary@srnpdx.org
- Rachael Brake - Treasurer - 503.621.3423, 503.201.6740 / treasurer@srnpdx.org
- Alex Rose - 213.507.6616
- Brad Graff - 503.292.1614
- George Sowder - 503.621.3552, 503.961.3440
- Suzanne Perra - 503.866.9289
- Grant Rolette - 503.621.3423, 503.985.2060
- Tracy Waters - 503.285.3530, 503.358.3130
Skyline Rural Watch Newsline
Subscribe to SRN’s weekly email newsletter of local events and news via the link at www.srnpdx.org. Contact the Editor, Laurel Erhardt, at newsline@srnpdx.org or 503.621.3501 to submit items for publication
SRN Website
Visit www.srnpdx.org for more news, photos and information about our community. If you have questions or comments, contact the Webmaster, Agnes Kwan, at webmaster@srnpdx.org.
The views and opinions presented herein are those of the authors and are not necessarily endorsed by SRN or Skyline neighborhood residents.