Pinnacle Press by Forest Heights Homeowners Association

HOLIDAY TREE LIGHTING Mark your calendars for the Annual Tree Lighting Celebration at the Village Center.

SECURE CHILD PHOTO ID Make sure your kid’s photos and records are upto-date in the case of an emergency.

NEW HOA PAYMENT OPTIONS You can now pay your HOA dues online or with other new payment options.

UPDATE ON SOLAR PANELS Two families share how their solar panel installations are helping them save money.

pinnacle press BOARD APPROVES 2011 BUDGET

he Budget and Finance Committee, with the assistance of General Manager Stephen Herr, crafted the 2011 operating budget for the board’s review and consideration. At the November 9th board meeting, the Forest Heights Homeowners Association (FHHOA) Board of Directors approved the proposed 2011 balanced Operating Budget, with no dues increase. The dues will remain at $48/month, or $288 billed bi-annually on January 1st and July 1st. The forecasted Operating Revenues, under current assumptions, appear sufficient to fund next year’s ―operating‖ expenses. The Budget and Finance committee’s philosophy and methodology has been and continues to be financially conservative. We have been conservative by erring on the high side when estimating expenses and the low side when forecasting revenues. We believe this approach is sensible considering our unrelenting employment and housing market challenges. A key indicator in forecasting next year’s operating budget is our current 2010 actual financial results. The association, based on the 9/30/10 interim financial statements, is on

NEWS AT FOREST HEIGHTS

DECEMBER•2010

pace to complete the year with a small ―excess‖ or be slightly under budget. This is a pleasant surprise considering the persistence of delinquent and uncollectible accounts and inflation-related increases in operating expenses. Generally, we have experienced relatively small positive variances where revenues are up and expenses are down. These results bode well for our 2011 budget estimates and are a reflection of management’s knowledge of Forest Height’s finances and potentially the quality of our 2010 budgeting process. Consistent with 2009, our 2010 results are commendable amidst arguably some of the worst economic conditions in recent history. As part of the budgeting process, the Budget and Finance Committee assessed the strength of our community’s Common Property Reserves relative to future expenditures. The committee, based on updated reserve funding projections provided by the association’s accountants, recommended and the board approved a 5% increase in the contribution rate for 2011. The Mill Pond dredging project is tentatively slated for next year and if it occurs, will be Continued on page 2 →

W H AT’ S IN SI DE Board Approves 2011 Budget

1-2

Holiday Tree Lighting

Secure Child Photo ID

New Payment Options for HOA dues

6-7

Ask the Manager: Is My Residence in Compliance?

Communications Survey

Upcoming Community Events

Update on Solar Panels

12-13

Field Improvement Team (FIT) Update

Ask the Expert: Willamette Certified as ECO-Business

Compliance Corner: Tips for 17 Keeping Garbage Contained Go Green Planting & Holiday 18-19 Recycling Programs Local Fundraising Updates

BOARD APPROVES 2011 BUDG ET Continued from page 1

Forest Heights Homeowners Association 2033 NW Miller Road Portland, Oregon 97229 Phone: 503.297.9400 Fax: 503.297.9408 Office Hours: Monday—Friday 9:00 am—5:00 pm

Email: contactus@fhhoa.com

Vision Statement To create and foster excellence in community, environment and quality of life. Board of Directors | 2010 Eric Butterfield—President Michael Fletcher—Vice President Sherrill Corbett—Secretary Ric Barton—Treasurer Stuart Roberts Mark Sanzone Joseph Schutz

Association Staff Stephen K. Herr—General Manager email: sherr@fhhoa.com Sharon Aiger—Office Administrator email: saiger@fhhoa.com Molly McManus Oliver—Compliance Coordinator email: moliver@fhhoa.com Kimberly Monaco—Marketing, Communications & Event Coordinator email: kmonaco@fhhoa.com Richard Metzger—Maintenance Supervisor

funded through our previously accumulated ―excess operating reserves‖. Looking towards the future, to adequately fund future common area major projects such as the Miller Road fence replacement, street lamp post repainting and Mill Pond dredging (2035), a 4% increase or $1.94 per household will be necessary per year through 2021. The Budget and Finance committee also reviewed the Private Street Reserves funding requirements. As you might recall, Private Street reserves are funded by private street homeowners and are separate from our common area reserves. Per the committee’s recommendation, the board approved the 2011 Private Street Reserve plan with a 5% increase in the contribution rate from 2010 to 2011 with future increases of 6.25% per year or $6.00 per household for the remaining years in the study. The private street fee, which is billed annually on January 1st, will be $96.19 for 2011. Repaving of all private streets will be completed in phases beginning in years 2023, 2030 and 2037 respectively. Additionally, to maintain and extend the life of these streets, slurry coat re-surfacing is scheduled for every seven years.

our homeowners. Overall, at this point in time, our Forest Heights Homeowners Association is financially sound. This does not mean that we can rest on our laurels but we must continue to prudently manage expenses and protect revenues as we look forward to future budgeting cycles. Please contact me or association management should you have an interest in helping the Budget and Finance Committee with this charge. For your information, the 2011 Operating Budget and supporting details are posted on the FHHOA website at www.fhhoa.com. Detailed copies of the budget are available in the association office. If you have comments or questions, you may contact your FHHOA Treasurer, Ric Barton, General Manager, Stephen Herr, or your Budget and Finance Chairman, Donald Bielen through email at contactus@fhhoa.com. You may also address the board directly at the monthly board meeting during the open forum. Please check our website (above) for dates and times.

~ Donald Bielen, MBA, CFPÓ Budget and Finance Committee Chairman ~

Fortunately, Common Property and Private Street reserve requirements are not static. While increases are never welcome, they are the preferred alternative to unanticipated special assessments. On a comprehensive basis, Budget and Finance along with association management annually evaluates our reserves relative to future expenditures to determine the proper funding levels to mitigate the short-term and long-term financial impacts on

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S AV E T H E D AT E !

Tree Lighting and Holiday Celebration Schedule of Events

Saturday December 11th 9 am to 8 pm Village Center

Morning

Afternoon

Evening

9:00—12:00 Cub Scouts Holiday Wreaths & Centerpiece Sale

12:00—8:00 pm Craft & Artisan Sale

5:00—8:00 pm Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer

Pick up holiday wreaths and centerpieces for decorating your home and support the Cub Scouts.

Toy and Joy Program Each year during the holidays, the Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue assists nearly 10,000 less fortunate children through its Toy & Joy program. Toys will be collected all day starting at 9:00 am and given to dozens of agencies that provide food baskets to families.

Looking for a unique gift for someone special? Come shop from local crafters and artisans!

1:00 pm to 8:00 pm Girl Scouts Bake and Craft Sale Shop the Girl Scout bake and craft sale fundraiser. Proceeds go to Sunshine Pantry.

Come write your letter to Santa at the Girl Scouts tents! Free express delivery to the North Pole.

3:00 pm—6:00 pm Secure Child Photo ID

The Sunshine Division, in concert with the Portland Police Bureau, provides temporary emergency relief for those in need year-round. This includes much needed nonperishable foods collected all day starting at 9:00 am

Free Secure Child ID Kits will be processed by North Star Resource Group. See next page for more information.

Bring your old holiday lights to Starbucks and they’ll be recycled. Ongoing until January 4th.

5:30—6:15 pm Girl Scout & Pixie Stix Caroling

Letters to Santa

The Sunshine Division & Portland Police Bureau

Christmas Tree Light Recycling

The most famous reindeer of all will be at the Village Center to greet guests and be available for photos. Don’t forget to bring your camera!

6:15—6:30 pm Santa Claus is Coming...to the Village Center Don’t miss the arrival of old Saint Nick as he catches a ride with the Portland Fire & Rescue crew out of Station 27. Photo opportunities will be available with Santa in the giant ―Santa Chair‖.

6:30—8:00 pm Annual Holiday Tree Lighting Be there for the lighting of the giant Holiday Tree! Join the celebration with holiday music, candy canes, and photos with Santa and Rudolph.

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orth Star Resource Group has joined forces with the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) to sponsor a series of free Secure Child photo ID events throughout the coming year. This is part of an on-going effort to provide parents in the Portland area with the best possible tool to aid law enforcement authorities in the event their child is ever lost or missing. The service is provided free of charge to parents.

•

The picture should be accompanied by an accurate set of vital statistics (height, weight, etc.) at the same time the child’s picture is taken.

•

The picture and vital statistics should be stored together in a safe, accessible place by the child’s parents or guardians.

A Secure Child photo ID event will be held in conjunction with the Forest Heights Tree Lighting Celebration Saturday December 11th.

What makes the Secure Child Photo ID different: •

The Secure Child Photo ID is a document developed with input from law enforcement officials, doctors, health officials and parents.

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The main component of the Secure Child Photo ID is a standardized, high quality, instant color photograph of the child.

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Only parents or guardians keep the original Secure Child Photo ID, thereby maintaining confidentiality of all data.

North Star Resource Group will be providing Secure Child Photo ID Kits free of charge at the event from 3:00 pm to 6:00pm. "According to the U.S. Department of Justice, over one million children are reported missing in the U.S. each year,‖ explains Johnny Walker, Vice President of North Star Resource Group, SW Portland. "A current, standardized photograph is the single most important tool in finding these children. Everyone has pictures of their children, but most parents don't have a suitable photograph if their child becomes lost or missing." Mr. Walker says that the best possible personal safety / photo ID system will have these five features: •

•

The picture should be as recent as possible – an unobstructed head-and-shoulder photograph of the child – with no unusual posing, hat, scarf, head dress, etc. The picture should not be cosmetically ―touched up‖ in any way (as some school pictures occasionally are). The picture should be useable in conjunction with computerized ―age progression‖ – to approximate how the child is likely to look ―x‖ years after disappearance.

For more information, please contact Johnny Walker by phone at 503-321-7400, or by email: johnny.walker@northstarfinancial.com

Lynn Marshall Broker, Coldwell Banker/SEAL  Involved in Forest Heights development since its inception  Owner of Forest Heights Realty from 2000-2007  Forest Heights Homeowner  Licensed Realtor for 20 years  Neighborhood references

lynnmarshall@cbseal.com Direct: (503) 780-1890 Page 5

FROM THE HOA OFFICE

N E W H O A PAY M E N T O P T I O N S AVA I L A B L E F O R O W N E R S Dear Forest Heights HOA Owners,

Forest Heights Homeowners Association is pleased to announce our new banking relationship with SmartStreet, the community association division of RBC Bank. SmartStreet is one of the industry’s leading providers of banking and payment processing services for owners and associations. Smartstreet offers owners several convenient options for paying assessments. With SmartStreet, we are now able to offer homeowners the following HOA payment options: •

Online - eCheck or Credit Card*

•

Automatic Draft – ACH (if you are currently set up for ACH, re-enrollment is not necessary)

•

US Mail

•

Your Bank’s Online Bill Payment

Please update your records with our New Payment Address! Beginning December 1, 2010 all payments should go to: Forest Heights HOA PO Box 105007 Atlanta, GA 30348-5007 Your semi-annual statement will be sent out soon so look for it in the mail!

Please note that the statement you receive will look different than previous statements. See page 7 of the newsletter for an information sheet that features the payment options and directions for each. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Forest Heights Homeowners Association at (503) 297-9400 or by email at: contactus@fhhoa.com.

Sincerely, Stephen Herr General Manager

*There is a $9.95 convenience fee if you pay via a credit card. Mastercard, American Express and Discover are accepted. However, VISA IS NOT ACCEPTED Page 6

N E W H O A PAY M E N T O P T I O N S AVA I L A B L E F O R O W N E R S Our new banking relationship with SmartStreet offers homeowners many HOA payment options. Please note that you will first need to receive your NEW STATEMENT from SmartStreet before you can use any of these payment options. Look for your statements mid-December!

ONLINE PAYMENT VIA E-CHECK OR CREDIT CARD* How does it work? You set up a one time payment using MasterCard, American Express or Discover or eCheck. NOTE: VISA IS NOT ACCEPTED

What you need to do:

ACH | RECURRING AUTOMATIC DRAFT How does it work? Your assessment is automatically deducted from your account on January 1st and July 1st.

What you need to do: Go to www.fhhoa.com and click on the SmartStreet logo, then choose Option 3 Recurring Payments and follow the instructions on the screen.

Go to www.fhhoa.com and click on the SmartStreet logo. When the SmartStreet web page loads:

Choose Option 1 ―One Time Credit Card Payment‖ NOTE: You will need a login ID to set up a recurring online payment which can be obtained by selecting ―Register Now‖ and completing the form. Enter Forest Heights Homeowners Association and follow the instructions on the screen.

US MAIL | LOCKBOX -or-

How does it work? You write a check, enclose payment coupon provided on your statement and mail it in.

Choose Option 2 ―One Time eCheck Payment‖

What you need to do: Write a check payable to Forest Heights HOA, and mail it along with your payment coupon to the address listed on the coupon. Important: Write your

account number on your check as it appears on your statement. Please allow 5 to 7 business days for check to reach SmartStreet.

YOUR BANK’S ONLINE BILL PAY How does it work? Complete the online instructions for either option.

Set up ―Forest Heights HOA‖ as a payee with your bank’s online banking bill-pay.

Note: For either option, you will need to enter your account number, which will be shown on your statement.

What you need to do:

*There is a $9.95 convenience if you pay via a credit card. Mastercard, American Express and Discover are accepted. VISA IS NOT ACCEPTED

Please complete your bill-pay setup as follows: Payee: Forest Heights HOA Address: PO Box 105007 Atlanta, GA 30348-5007 Phone: (888) 705-0600 Account Number: Enter as it appears on your statement.

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― Curiosity is the wick in the candle of learning.‖ - William A. Ward

Are you curious about things going on in our community? Do you ever wonder about something you see while walking or driving through our neighborhood? Do you have questions about issues that impact Forest Heights? Here’s your opportunity to get some answers! Our General Manager, Stephen Herr, will answer your questions about Forest Heights each month in this article. If you are wondering about something, chances are others in our community are curious about the same thing, so do us all a favor and send in your questions. If Manager Herr can’t answer the question, he’ll find someone who can! Please email your questions to contactus@fhhoa.com with “Ask the Manager” in the subject line. Questions received by the 10th of each month will be answered in the newsletter the following month.

ASK THE MANAGER ―How do I know if my residence is in compliance with the Forest Heights ARC Guidelines?‖

he original governing documents of Forest Heights address this specific question and the Board recently amended a Resolution clarifying the procedure. The result is an ―Estoppel Certificate‖ executed by the association to the requesting party. Let’s investigate this further. In Article VII Architectural Review Committee of the Declarations of Protective Covenants Conditions and Restrictions for Forest Heights the association is required to deliver this estoppel certificate within fifteen business days. A member of the ARC Committee, after inspection of the property, will certify that all improvements made or done by the owner either comply or not comply with the declarations and ARC Guidelines on that day. All non-complying improvements will be identified for the owner. Potential buyers or mortgagee can rely on this certificate as proof of compliance.

for this certificate due to the amount of effort required to produce an accurate document. Oregon Revised Statutes (OSR) Section 94.670(8) permits community associations to adopt a resolution establishing a reasonable fee for responding to information requests. The certificate fee is $250. Forest Heights owners will find this certificate useful and timely should they list their home for sale. This certificate protects both the seller and buyer and alleviated issues at the title company during the close of escrow. The estoppel process provides the current owner assurance that they are in compliance and can sell their home expeditiously. So, if you’re planning to sell your home order this certificate today and present it to all potential buyers of your home. This certificate adds value to your home and enhances the marketability of your home and our community.

Policy Resolution Number 6 amended by the board this past August established a fee Page 8

communications committee survey

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The Communications Committee wants to hear from you!

he Communications Committee works with the FHHOA board, management, and staff to inform, engage and educate

residents and other interested parties regarding issues important to their understanding of—and participation in—the neighborhood. Our commitment is to build a sense of community by fostering two-way communication, while at the same time

To that end, we’ve created an online survey about the communications you receive from the committee (newsletters, e-alerts, website, etc.). Please take a few minutes to share your thoughts with us. The survey results will help guide the committee with future planning of communications to the entire community.

presenting accurate information in a timely and convenient manner. We’d like to hear from you

We appreciate your time and value your input!

regarding our efforts.

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Upcoming Community Events Holiday Food Drive November 29thâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;December 14th Location: Collection bins at Forest Park Elementary & Participating VC Merchants

Box Tops for Education 2010-2011 School Year

Location: Collection boxes at Forest Park Elementary & FHHOA Office

Secure Child Photo ID Event Saturday, December 11th Time: 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm Location: Village Center >> See page 5 for more information

Christmas Tree Sale Saturday, December 4th Time: 9:00 am to 4:00 pm Location: Village Center >> See page 11 for more information

Holiday Tree Lighting & Celebration Saturday, December 11th Time: 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm Location: Village Center >> See page 4 for more information

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Call for Crafters & Artisans If you are a local crafter or artisan and would like to participate in the Forest Heights Holiday Tree Lighting and Celebration event on December 11th, please contact Erin Vik at 503. 806.5200

oin us at Forest Heights Village Center on December 4th from 9:00 am til 4:00 pm for our annual Christmas Tree Sale. This years

trees are all locally grown noble firs and will sell for only $35 ($28 is tax deductable) regardless of size (6-10 ft). Get there early for the best selection or reserve your tree by email: treesnw@gpa-nw.org We will also have our Grey Stuff Store attending the event selling all sorts of gift items for dogs and people who love dogs. Hot chocolate will help keep the kids warm and mulled spice wine will keep the the parents warm. Enjoy Christmas cookies and holiday shopping. All proceeds from this sale benefit Greyhound Pet Adoption Northwest - finding loving homes for retired racing Greyhounds.

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YOUR NEIGHBORS’ VOICE

A N U P D AT E O N S O L A R PA N E L S IN FOREST HEIGHTS

any of you may recall that earlier this year, FHHOA —and many neighboring sub-associations—partnered with Imagine Energy to offer installation of rooftop solar panels at reduced costs to our neighborhood. Of the fifty-three residents who signed up to have their homes evaluated for solar panels, ten homeowners moved forward with installations. In this article, Hemal Shah and Pete Oliver share why they moved forward with installing solar panels on their homes and the benefits they expect to see.

pursue panels before this summer because of costs and Architectural Review Committee (ARC) installation guidelines. When the FHHOA, Go Green and ARC committees put together a program that streamlined the design and approval process, coupled with the group discount provided by Imagine Energy, Hemal jumped in with both feet. The Shahs installed a 2.87 kW system and here is a picture of their installation:

THE OLIVERS The Olivers installed a 3.6 kilowatt (kW) system on their home. As you can see below, the panels look quite lovely on their roof:

The Olivers installed solar panels as a way to demonstrate their commitment to green stewardship to their two boys, who attend Forest Park Elementary. They were also pleased to take advantage of the federal and state tax credits which put the cost of solar panels within reach. THE SHAHS Hemal Shah had wanted to install solar panels since seeing his neighbor Devidas Gupta install them on a garden structure. Hemal did not

One of the potential costs one needs to weigh when considering rooftop solar panels is the possible replacement of a portion of their roof. The solar panel installers recommend that the roof (under the solar panels) have at least 10 years life remaining when solar panels are installed. The Shahs did not need to replace any of their roof as they had just repaired it through regular maintenance and their home is only 10 years old. The Olivers, however, chose to replace the portion of roof underneath the solar panels because their roof was nearly 20 years old.

The ARC was a bit worried about the location of the Olivers solar panels as neighbors would be able to see the solar panels from the street. The ARC approved the Olivers design after Pete explained that ―this is something positive for the environment and while aesthetics are important, we need to balance that with functional requirements and overall benefits.‖ The Olivers did not feel there was a need to "hide" the fact that they are using solar power. For the Shahs, the ARC review process was transparent. Imagine Energy submitted the paperwork and the ARC approved and responded within a couple of weeks. Perhaps a new way to view solar panels is as a positive attribute that increases home value both economically (lower energy costs to heat and power the home) and from a sustainability standpoint (reduced impact on the earth and increased energy independence). Having homes with solar panels certainly contributes to the sustainability value of our neighborhood. With installation now complete, both the Shahs and the Olivers are beginning to measure their savings. The Olivers have a small desktop gadget that monitors the output of the

system in real time and collects power output data and downloads it into their computer. They hope to see a modest offset in their electric bill Continued on page 13 → Page 12

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CALLING ALL SNOW EVENT VOLUNTEERS! A N U P D AT E O N S O L A R P A N E L S IN FOREST HEIGHTS Continued from page 12

each month. They intend to compare their current electrical bill to last year’s. The Shahs intend to measure how much power their home generates and how much their family consumes over a period of time to chart it and see where they can find additional savings. Hemal is looking for a device that collects all this information and sends it to the Google power meter. Ideally he would like PGE to send usage data to the Shahs or to Google so individual families do not have to buy another device to track usage. The Oliver boys were very interested in watching the installation. They think it is pretty cool! The Shah children (one at Forest Park and one at East Sylvan) are excited about generating power on their own roof. According to them now "One big bulb (the sun) is powering all the small bulbs in our house". Their older son looks at the inverter in the garage to see how much power their roof has generated and how much carbon the Shahs have saved so far. Hemal notes, ―One of these days I would like to show my children the PGE meter running backwards.‖ Hemal has researched solar electricity generation and concluded that Oregon’s climate is sufficiently sunny to generate electricity. In fact, solar panels may work better in Oregon’s climate than in southern Arizona or southern California where solar panels may get too hot and lose efficiency. Hemal has been following the pricing trend for solar panels for some time now; their new

system cost one and a half times less than it would have a few years ago. ―At this price the question was why NOT install it rather than why install it.‖ Hemal also notes that the state and federal incentives are not going to last forever so now is a great time to install solar. Pete really likes the fact that ―As we generate solar power, the system is capable of sending power we don't use back out on the line for someone else to use, and we'll see a credit on our bill.‖ These families are helping pave the way for the rest of us to become more self sufficient and sustainable by helping bring solar power to the neighborhood. The families saved money on their installations; they are helping improve the value of our neighborhood; and the solar panels have helped these two families reduce their dependence on fossil fuel powered energy. If you missed Imagine Energy this summer or are interested in pursuing solar panel installation on your home now, you may still be able to install solar panels at a reduced rate. Imagine Energy has partnered with our neighboring communities and is willing to include our neighborhood in their current project. If you would like more information, please contact Sarah Prevost at 503-477-9585 or by email at s.prevost@ImagineEnergy.net.

 We are looking for volunteers who are willing to help the community during a snow event! Can you lend a hand by shoveling snow, offering ride sharing, taxi service or other small jobs during a snow event? If you are interested in fulfilling any community service hours, or just want to help your fellow neighbors, please let us know! This is a wonderful way to get to know your neighbors and help those in need.

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If you are interested, please send an email to: contactus@fhhoa.com or call the HOA office at 503.297.9400 .

~ Submitted by Audrey O’Brien Llewelyn, Forest Heights Resident ~ Page 13

FIELD IMPROVEMENT T E A M ( F I T ) U P D AT E

NOTE: This article is being reprinted from last month’s (November 2010) newsletter

he cross-community Field Improvement Team (FIT) continues its fund raising efforts directed at replacing the community sports field next to Forest Park Elementary with a complete synthetic field system. Currently, FIT has raised approximately $160,000 toward the project requirement of $375K from Forest Heights Residents, The Forest Park Elementary PTA, Forest Heights Soccer Club, Cardno/WRG and the FPE Foundation. FIT has requested a donation from the Forest Heights Homeowners Association as well, and here are some key points to keep in mind as you consider supporting a FHHOA donation: In addition to the thousands of youth soccer and lacrosse players this sports field supports each year, it has also become clear that this is the only dedicated, flat sports/recreation field available in the entire Forest Heights neighborhood. Having a quality, synthetic field system will open up community access for all 365 days a year for the next 8-10 years, rather than just the "dry" season, and will provide a much safer sports and exercise environment

for the neighborhood than the existing sports field. The Field Renovation project is a critical community improvement initiative, one that will have lasting effects on the quality of life in Forest Heights and a positive impact on home values. The State budget crisis has completely eliminated public funding for community improvement projects like this one, so private fund raising is the only available option. Adjacent neighborhoods, such as the Ainsworth and Champman areas, have recognized the need to invest hundreds of thousands of dollars each in their recreational fields as a way to keep their neighborhoods competitive for home buyers. Forest Heights needs to do the same. We need your help, and hope that you will support the board's resolution to donate to this important community improvement project. If you are interested in getting involved with FIT as a project ambassador, please contact Brad McMahon by email: brad.mcmahon11@gmail.com ~ The Field Improvement Team~

UPDATE ON BOARD RESPONSE TO FIT REQUEST The ―FIT‖ update article was originally published in the November newsletter and is being republished again this month for review. The association has received numerous comments from the community ―FOR‖ and ―AGAINST‖ FHHOA donating $15,000 to support the Forest Park Elementary School field improvement project. The board continues to seek community input from residents who have not previously commented. Please submit your comments to contactus@fhhoa.com or by letter in care of the GM/FIT Contribution. The board will review and consider such input before making any decision on the matter. The board will vote on the matter according to Policy Resolution # 9 Expenditure of Association Funds on Property Not Owned by the Association Resolution # 9 requires a sixty (60) day written notice before the board can vote on this request. The board has tentatively placed this on the January 11, 2011 agenda. The board appreciates your input.

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Call 866-536-8036 to schedule your FREE estimate www.marblelife.com/portland

Holiday Food Drive benefits students on holiday break Did you know that many children who live in some Portland neighborhoods will not have access to breakfast or lunch during the upcoming school break? Over 80% of students enrolled at Harvey Scott Elementary in NE Portland receive both breakfast and lunch during school hours. These meals are provided to low-income children who might not ordinarily receive these meals in their own homes. During school closures (in-service days, holiday break, summer break, etc.), these students typically do not eat breakfast or lunch as they are not in school to partake in the program. Forest Park Elementary is sponsoring a Holiday Food Drive to assist these families in need. If you would like to help, please drop off non-perishable foods between now and December 14th at the following locations: Forest Park Elementary Starbucks at the Village Center 1st Choice Market Suggested donations include: Breakfast/nutrition bars Peanut butter & jelly Granola bars Tuna Canned goods

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ASK THE EXPERT

F HHOA’ S L AND SCAPI N G F I RM IS ECO-BUSINESS CERTIFIED

e did it! Willamette Landscape Services, your FHHOA landscaping contractor, is now EcoBiz Certified. We have joined a small group of landscape companies in the Portland Metro Area that have proven to be environmentally friendly. The Landscape Services EcoLogical Business Program, sponsored by the Pollution Prevention Outreach Team, recognizes and certifies landscape companies that reach the highest standards in environmental protection in the Portland Metropolitan Area. The goal is to keep pollution generated by small businesses in Oregon to a minimum and was the first program of its kind in the United States. The team is comprised of pollution prevention experts from seven agencies in the Metro area. The application process began more than a year ago. The core of the application is a long and detailed checklist that looks at every aspect of the operation of a landscape maintenance company. It’s a very comprehensive list that not only addresses environmental issues but looks at legal and safety issues too. Being an environmentally friendly company has always been a priority for us at Willamette, so a lot of ―boxes‖ were checked off right away. To name just a few, our pre-EcoBiz practices included using recycled materials in the office, being a leader in water conservation, and utilizing IPM (Integrated Pest Management) practices in the field. Next, there was a short to-do list of things we hadn’t thought of yet. To better contain liquid spills, we created a stand-alone fuel storage facility to house our numerous gas

cans. The new unit is a steel shipping container outfitted with solar powered ventilation and liquid spill containment trays that all the cans sit in. Our pesticide storage facility, which had always met

OSHA’s highest standards, was also modified the same way. We have added more recycling stations in the office, shop, and yard to help collect recyclables, joined the Renewable Power Program, and have converted our office paper to 100% recycled. At this point, in September of 2009, the Pollution Prevention Outreach Team met with us and then toured the facility. We passed this initial review with flying colors and had only two things left to do before receiving certification! One was easy: install two low barriers in the entrance and exit of our vehicle bay (repair area) to contain liquid spills. The other item was a little more difficult, to say the least: Either severely limit the washing of all of our equipment or install a waste water recycling system.

needed to create an impermeable 1600 square foot wash-pad to collect the water, install a drainage system to collect the water, and devote precious shop space to house the tanks, filters, and controls. The equipment arrived in January of 2010, but the installation wasn’t completed until late October – most of the installation we did using our own labor. All the waste water from our equipment cleaning, ranging from daily lawnmower wash-downs to routine truck washing now goes through an elaborate system of pipes, filters, and pumps so that it is clean enough to be used again and again. On a typical day, that saves about 400 gallons of water! On Friday, November 19 EcoBiz team leaders Dawn Hottenroth from the City of Portland, and Marney Jett from Clean Water Services presented us with official EcoBiz Certification! ~ Glenn Fritts, Licensed Landscape

Contractor, Area Manager, Willamette Landscape Services ~

The creation of our waste water recycling system was challenging. Not only did we have to purchase the equipment itself (well into five figures), but we

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COMPLIANCE CORNER

TIPS FOR KEEPING YOUR T R A S H C O N TA I N E D A N D OUT OF VIEW Have you ever come home to find your neighbor’s trash strewn about your landscape? Blustery weather increases the chance that trash can lids will blow off or that whole trash cans will be knocked over. Don’t be scattered to the four winds; with a little planning, your trash will stay in its container and your containers will stay out of site. We spoke with Walker Garbage, the trash hauler for Forest Heights, about ways you can minimize loose trash flying through the neighborhood during the winter months: Consider using a rolling cart provided by Walker Garbage There are many advantages to using carts from Walker Garbage. For starters, the smallest cart holds 35 gallons, as opposed to the 32 gallon capacity of a typical trash can. Lids on the garbage carts are attached, similar to the recycling carts. The wind may blow the lids open, but they won’t fly away and become big Frisbees like a typical trash can lid does in high winds. Lastly, using a Walker cart makes for more efficient garbage pickup, as their trucks are equipped with hydraulic arms to lift and dump the carts. There is a small monthly surcharge for the carts, which varies by the size of cart used. For more information, Walker Garbage can be reached via their website or by phone: 503-531-6330. Bungee cord your trash can/cart lid Walker encourages residents to use a bungee cord to keep lids secure during windy weather. While Walker takes great care to pick up loose debris near the can, often trash has been strewn throughout

the adjacent landscape by the time the haulers arrive. An added benefit of using the rolling cart is that you can tie one end of the bungee cord to the cart handle. This keeps the cord from being dropped or lost after the trash has been taken from the cart.

during the week. Containers can be put out the night before your garbage pickup date. In stormy conditions, it would be preferable to wait until the morning of your trash pickup. Walker does ask that containers be set out by 5 am on pickup days.

Bag up loose or light materials before placing them in the can/cart

A note on storing containers out of view

We’ve all seen it: the Styrofoam peanuts scattered about the yard. They are almost impossible to completely pick up. Put items like these in a paper bag before placing them in the trash. Don’t overfill your can/cart If your trash can or cart is so full that the lid cannot be completely closed, you are setting yourself up for a debris mess. Don’t forget Forest Heights’ regulations concerning the storage of garbage, recycling and debris containers Our CC&Rs (6.9) require that all garbage, recycling and yard debris containers be stored out of sight

―Out of view‖ means that the containers cannot be observed from the street. This eliminates driveways and side yards in front of a fence as places to put your garbage, recycling and yard debris containers. Containers can be stored in your garage or behind your fence. You can create a short hedge with landscaping or build a short fence to screen containers as well. While these projects require Architectural Review Committee approval before being built, there is no fee for the review. Stumped about how to screen containers on your Lot? Feel free to email moliver@fhhoa.com or call me at 503-297-9400. I can help propose solutions for your circumstance. Page 17

GO GREEN & VOLUNTEERS PLANT OVER 400 WILLOWS

n Saturday, November 13th, the Go Green committee and twenty volunteers harvested and planted over four hundred

(yes, 400!) willow/red twig dogwood stakes along the stream banks of the Wetlands Trail. Volunteers, led by Lynn Putnam, netted over fifty seven volunteer hours, which is about half the time needed to fulfill the grant requirements of this restoration project. Dave Bowman and Mary Logalbo of the East & West Multnomah County Soil and Water Conservation District(s) provided assistance during the planting and were on hand to explain the project and its environmental advantages. As the cuttings grow in, stream bank erosion should ease and sediment from higher elevations should be trapped, thereby helping to keep Mill Pond cleaner. Despite a rainy morning, spirits were good during the planting thanks to great volunteers, homemade banana bread and coffee and snacks from FHHOA. Many thanks to everyone who attended the event, including FHHOA board members Ric Barton, Stuart Roberts and Mark Sanzone. The project was one of the many activities that are taking place unter the umbrella of the Go Green Committee chaired by Devidas Gupta. We look forward to seeing many new volunteers at our next event in February 2011!

FHHOA Natural Area Restoration Timeline

2010 SEP Awarded grant, removed invasive plants

OCT

2011 NOV Harvest & plant willows

DEC

JAN

FEB

MAR

APR

MAY

Plant trees & shrubs Page 18

RECYCLE YOUR OLD H O L I D AY L I G H T S Don’t throw them in the trash!

Yes! You can recycle your old holiday lights! Where: Starbucks….look for the recycling bin (thank you Starbucks) When: December 2nd—January 4th, 2011 How: Just drop your old lights in the bin (leave the lights screwed in) and we’ll take them to a local recycling facility. Sponsored by: Pixie Stix (Forest Park 4th Grade Girls Group) Alexandra, Ava, Claire, Corinna, Daniella, Fiona, Kate, Riley, Sinead, Sophia Questions: Erin Vik 503. 806.5200

Holiday Tree Recycling Boy Scout Troop 198 Founded 1950

Proudly serving Forest Heights & Neighbors for over 20 years!

Sunday Jan. 2nd & Saturday Jan 8th 9am - 4pm Have Us Pick up Your Tree at the Curb Leave donation under your door mat in plastic bag or Pre-schedule pick at www.Troop198.org/ You don’t have to prepay for recycling with Troop 198 Suggested Donation: $10.00/tree, $2.00/wreath or

Drop-Off Your Tree

Forest Heights Village Center NW Miller Rd. & Mill Ridge Rd. Suggested Donation: $7.00/tree, $2.00/wreath 100% of all trees & wreaths are recycled & composted into mulch

Questions or to arrange pick up? www.Troop198.org/ or Call 503-799-3120 Page 19

RECYCLE YOUR BICYCLE NETS TWENTY NINE BIKES “When kids volunteer it tells others that they don't have to be perfect or famous or even grown up to make a difference.” - Kalynn Dobos, age 7

n November 7th, twenty-nine bikes were collected at the second annual ―Re-Cycle Your Bicycle‖ event held at Forest Park Elementary. Of those twenty-nine bicycles, 28 were in instant usable condition. According to Brian at the Community Cycling Center, that number is "officially the best percentage of usable bikes collected...ever!". Two thirds of the bikes are destined for their programs, and the remainder will be sold in the shop with the proceeds benefiting the cycling center. Thank you to Forest Park parents, students and alumni, who did such a great job making the event a success for the cycling center. Thank you, also, to the generous donors who allowed us to take bicycles off their hands. We hope many of you found satisfaction in doing something for the good of others. If you intended to donate a bike, but were unable to make it to the event, please visit www.communitycyclingcenter.org for information on how to donate. ~ Tammy Wilhoite, FHHOA Resident ~

Dress for Success Clothing Drive

Forest Heights Design Studio conducted their second annual clothing drive for ―Dress for Success‖ during the month of November. We received many beautiful clothing ensembles, suits, sweaters, shows and handbags for needy women entering the workforce. Two very full carloads of clothing were delivered to Dress for Success Portland. In appreciation for donating, clients received a one hour design consult for their home of office. Owners Susan Adams-Messmer and Melanie Sessions thank you very much for your generosity and thoughtfulness in support of our cause. The designers at FHDS enjoyed getting acquainted with our generous community members. Look for our next Designer Sample Sale coming in the new year.

DOUGH FOR DOLLARS MAKES A GENEROUS DONATION

Interested in advertising in the Forest Heights Community Newsletter?

Thanks to everyone who participated in the ―Dough for Dollars‖ fundraiser held on November 16th. Pizzicato donated 20% of their total lunch and dinner sales from this day, for a grand total donation of $1000.34 to Forest Park Elementary.

When you advertise in the FHHOA Community Newsletter, your ad will appear monthly during your contract period. In addition to your ad, we provide links to your website from the both the newsletter itself and the monthly email blast that delivers the newsletter. For ad rates, submission deadlines and general information, please contact Kim Monaco, Marketing, Communications and Event Coordinator, at: kmonaco@fhhoa.com or by phone 503.297.9400. Page 20

BABYSITTING BABYSITTING SERVICE AVAILABLE! Call Emilie Jackson @ 503-282-1598 16 years old Attends St. Mary’s Academy And, lots of experience with kids. NANNY/BABYSITTER My name is Ashley and I am 17 year old., experienced babysitter and Red Cross certified. I love to play games, do arts and crafts, play sports and be active. I have my drivers license and am a good driver with my own car. I am able to drive myself along with others if needed. I am available school nights, weekends and this summer. Please call Ashley at 503-577-6951 or email ktmarcy@yahoo.com.

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZER

TIRED OF THE CLUTTER? I offer organizing services to help you attain more control over your personal environment and possessions…to bring order and harmony back into your life! For a FREE 1 hour consultation, call Cynthia Fooshe at 503.297.1862.

PERSONAL TRAINER

Will come to your home in Forest Heights. New Client Special: 3 sessions for $99.00 www.fitnessbybobbi.com 503.265.8944

BABYSITTER Responsible 12 year old girl available for babysitting in the Forest Heights Neighborhood. I am Red Cross-certified and love kids! Call Abby at 503-292-7744.

RENTALS

FUN, RELIABLE, BABYSITTER AVAILABLE Responsible, caring and experienced with kids of all ages! Available on weeknights and weekends to babysit for families, during parties, etc. Call 503-291-1249 or email juliarenner@comcast.net

FOR RENT MANZANITA BEACH HOUSE w/great ocean views. Works well for families to share or that winter retreat for the book/bridge club. Sleeps 14, no pets/smoking. Call 503.292.3270 or visit www.bellavistavacation.com

BABYSITTER/PET SERVICES AVAILABLE Hi my name is Haley and I am a freshman in high school. I am offering babysitting and pet services. I am Red Cross certified for CPR. I have been a camp counselor for ages 2-12, and a mother’s helper for a 1 year old. My parents are available to drive me anywhere in the neighborhood. I love kids and am very patient with them! I currently charge $10 per hour. My pet services are as follows: Grooming and sitting. Grooming would be available at my own home where a grooming center is available. I have references upon request. I currently charge $15 per groom, $20 per full day/night sitting. Email: sunrisepetcare@hotmail.com or call 503.863.6673 BABYSITTER AVAILABLE High school student, Red Cross infant and toddler CPR certified, 3 years experience. Available to babysit Fridays and Saturdays year round. References available. Phone #: 503-841-5989 | Rate: $6/hr

MUSIC DRUM LESSONS Accomplished, studious high school student (junior) offering lessons in home studio; 2 drum sets for teach and follow instruction and recording equipment to monitor progress. Qualifications: 5 years study, numerous instructors, rock & jazz emphasis. Drummer and percussionist in 3 bands: rock, jazz and orchestra. Performance venues include clubs, charity events & private engagements. Rate: $10/half hour; $18/hour. Email: jeremyk23@yahoo.com, 503.686.8020 www.youtube.com/watch?v=3C24mJgNyP8 PIANO TEACHER/TUTORING Excellent piano teacher and professional tutor (LA, Math, French, Study Skills). Fully certified. Established business 6+ years in Forest Heights. Great references from your neighbors. I make learning fun and I connect personally with my students. I travel to you! Please call Sarah at: 503.313.1216 or mail me: sarahwannell@hotmail.com.

PET/PLANT CARE PET CARE Responsible 12 year old girl who loves to care for your pets. I am available to walk, play with, feed or care for while you are at work or away. All types of animals, birds or fish are acceptable. Please call to schedule your pet care. Manoy 503-203-1787 PET CARE / PLANT WATERING Responsible 13 and 16 year old brothers will provide excellent nurture for your pets and plants. In the last five years we have cared for numerous neighborhood pets, watered an abundance of vegetation and provided many dogs a daily walk. References available. Call Reid or Trent at: 503-203-1491 TWO BROTHERS PET & PLANT SITTING We are 14 and 16 year old brothers who provide quality care for your pets and plants while you’re away. We have over five years of experience caring for pets and plants, indoors and out, from cats and cacti to dogs and dahlias. References available. Gabe and Hayden Henderson, call 503-296-9165 or email gabehend@gmail.com

FOR RENT MT HOOD SKI CHALET- One for Vacation Rental - One For SALE by Owner. Sleeps 8. Three Bedroom, 2.5Bath, 2-car Garage, Pools, Spa, Deck. Hot Tub, Trails. Offers four seasons of fun: Ski, Hike, Fish, Boat, Climb. Located Right at Government Camp - Collins Lake Resort and Grand Lodges. Mention this FHHOA ad for FHHOA Member Rates and Book Direct with owner. Loren P Hotchkiss lorenhotchkiss9821@msn.com 503-291-9822 ROOM FOR RENT Forest Heights homeowner looking for clean, responsible, financially stable roommate to share a single-family home across the street from Mill Pond park & nature trails. Includes bedroom & bathroom, use of laundry, kitchen, & 4 outdoor patios. Nice views looking out over the neighborhood. Your roommates would be a husband & wife w/out kids or pets. No smoking, pets, illegal substances, day sleepers, or overnight guests. Email jprobertson@hotmail.com for more info & photos. $500.00/month GARAGE SPACE NEEDED | LOOKING TO RENT 65 year-old henpecked husband needs space for a newly purchased '52 motor car. Wife says, "No car here." Reply to Ray @ 503-384-9342 or bracis9398@comcast.net

TUTORING EXPERT COLLEGE ESSAY COACH As the acceptance rates of competitive colleges decline, it becomes essential for applicants to craft compelling admission essays. Experienced high school English teacher with Master’s Degree available to help plan, organize, revise, and edit admission and scholarship essays during evenings and/or weekends. Hourly fee. References supplied upon request. Please contact Ali at 503.867.6321 or allisonleighmarks@gmail.com CHINESE TUTORING THIS SUMMER We are two Lincoln High School upperclassmen, Catherine Wu and Minerva Chen. We are native Chinese speakers and are available this summer for tutoring in Cantonese and Mandarin. Flexible rates and locations available. Please contact us at: 503-422-2602 or 503-528-6031, or email us at catherineyinwu@gmail.com Also Available upon Request: Piano Lessons and Math Tutoring CERTIFIED READING THERAPIST Private sessions to improve your child's reading skills. Call for information or to schedule an evaluation. Caren 503-327-8046 or cbcohen@hotmail.com

MISCELLANEOUS PLAY DATE 5 year old girl is looking for the girl of same age or older, to arrange regular play dates. Please call Julia at 503.332.8080 or email: juliabreda@comcast.net PIANO FOR SALE Polished ebony, upright 57” wide x 43” high. Excellent condition, never used. Moving, must sell. Original price: $2999, asking $2500/OBO. Email italychick2008@comcast.net for more information. My name is Nick Grout and I am an 8th grader at West Sylvan. I am willing to wash cars, feed and bathe pets, house sit, and do yard work. I can come anytime during the week or weekend. Please contact me at 503.292.5440 or njgrout@gmail.com

INTERESTED IN RUNNING A CLASSIFIED AD? The classified ad section of this newsletter is available to Forest Heights residents only. Business classified ads are only $15.00 per month. All other ads are free! For more information, email: kmonaco@fhhoa.com

NEED SOME EXTRA HELP? My name is Nathan VanDomelen, 16 years old. I am a trustworthy and dedicated person. I honor all appointments and always do quality work. Here are a few things I can do: babysit, take care of plants, take care of pets (I am good with animals), pull weeds, and clean cars (inside and out.) Please note that I am not limited only to the jobs specified. I am available most weekdays, but prefer weekends due to school. Please don’t hesitate to call me (503) 206-6563. Thank you. 2010 NEW MOMS! I am a new stay at home mom with an 8 month old and my husband and I just moved to Forest Heights. I’d like to start or join a mommy’s group for 2010 born babies. Looking to meet up for coffee/tea, walks, lunch, shopping, an occasional night out, and a playgroup for our little ones. Email: linda.veldhuizen@gmail.com if interested. LOOKING FOR EXTRA HELP? Hi! My name is Jake Marcy and I am 16 years old. I am dedicated to my sports and school. I am a lacrosse player for Lincoln High School and love my sport. I am very motivated and willing to work as hard as you need. I can help with yard work, computer work (Facebook, upload photos, etc.), animal watching and walking, babysitting, house sitting, lacrosse training. I am a hard worker so feel free to call me for any work you might have. Please feel free to call me at 503-297-5921 or 503-407-0846.

Here’s a snapshot of FHHOA activities and meetings from December thru mid-January. Print and keep this calendar in a handy spot so you’ll have access to what’s happening in your community.

MARK YOUR CALENDAR Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

December 2010 1 GO Green Committee 6:00 pm

2 Architectural Review Committee 9:00 pm

4 Christmas Tree Sale @ Village Center 9:00 am to 4:00 pm

7 Safety, Streetscape & Transportation Committee 1:00 pm

11 Village Center Holiday Tree Lighting & Celebration Noon to 8:00 pm

14 FHHOA Board of Directors Meeting 6:00 pm

20 Budget & Finance Committee 6:00 pm

24 FHHOA Office Closed

January 2011 2

4 Safety, Streetscape & Transportation Committee 1:00 pm

5 GO Green Committee 6:00 pm

10 Community Activities Committee 12:00 pm

11 FHHOA Board of Directors Meeting 6:00 pm

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