MANAGER UPDATE Manager Stephen Herr reports on several FHHOA projects.
>>read more
GO GREEN Update on the Community Solar project. Have you registered for a solar class?
>>read more
GUEST COLUMNIST
ecoSHUTTLE SCHEDULE
Lynn Putnam explains the threat of Garlic Mustard.
Effective June 1st, the ecoShuttle has a new schedule
>>read more
>>read more
pinnacle press
COUNTDOWN TO T H E 4 T H O F J U LY ! It’s hard to believe, but as of this publication date there are only 34 days until the 4th of July! The Community Activities Committee (CAC) has been hard at work to bring about another fun-filled 4th of July celebration to be held at Mill Pond Park. Here’s a snapshot of what’s happening: Parade Across the Stage
As we mentioned in last month’s newsletter, due to a significant increase in parade permit fees from the City of Portland, CAC has been forced to think creatively about a new kind of parade for this year’s event. The result? Parade Across the Stage. The Parade Across the Stage is an opportunity for kids (and grown-ups alike) to dress up in their favorite 4th of July costume and parade themselves across the stage of our dance floor. Prizes will be awarded in the following categories: Most Patriotic Most Creative Best Dressed
Prizes include dinner at Pizzicato, an Extreme Day Pass at Bullwinkle’s and one Family Package to attend a Beavers Baseball game.
NEWS AT FOREST HEIGHTS
JUNE•2010
DJ, Dancing and Games
Our disc jockey is putting together the best dance tunes for the 4th and will be leading us into a great night of celebration, and this year’s expanded dance floor will allow more people to show off their new dance moves. We’ll also be playing some great games including a spirited round or two of tug-o-war. Fireworks Show
Based on the success of last year’s celebration, we’re bringing back the professionals from Western Display Fireworks to produce another spectacular pyrotechnic show for the neighborhood. Be sure to bring blankets and/or low beach chairs so everyone can see and enjoy the show. Desserts and Beverages
Our 4th of July celebration wouldn’t be complete without the seasonal and popular Red, White and Blue Berry Shortcakes. In addition, we’ll also be serving a variety of desserts including assorted cakes, cookies and ice cream, plus savory cheeses and crackers, beer, wine, lemonade and soda. See page 2 for a complete schedule of activities, and we’ll see you on the 4th! continued on page 2
FE AT UR E D COLUM N S Countdown to the 4th of July & Upcoming Community Events
1-3
Solarizing Forest Heights
4-5
From the Managers Desk: Update on FHHOA projects
6
New ecoShuttle Schedule
7
Your Neighbor’s Voice: Local Students are Robotic Programming Winners & Summer Reading Program
8-9
Compliance Corner: Summer Fire Safety
10
Ask the Expert: How to Prevent Car Prowling
12-13
Guest Column: Irrigation Tune-Up & Workshops plus
14-15
Ask the Manager: FHHOA Sign Policy
16
TH of
SCHEDULE OF EVENTS Event Kick Off Come enjoy an assortment of desserts including Red, White and Blue Shortcakes, Decadent Chocolate Brownies and Cookies, Domestic Cheese & Gourmet Crackers, Wine, Beer and Assorted Beverages
Parade Across the Stage A great activity for kids and grownups alike! Dress up for your chance to win some great prizes, including Family Night at the Portland Beavers. Judges will be looking for Most Patriotic, Most Creative and Best Dressed participants.
Games, games and more games Gunny Sack Race Boxer Shorts Relay Red Light/ Green Light Three-legged race Tug-O-War
Dancing, DJ and Music
Tickets for the 4th of July Celebration will be mailed to your homes in the next two weeks!
Last call on alcoholic beverages Fireworks show!
Page 2
Upcoming Community Events Community Solar Class Tuesday, June 1st Time: 7:30 pm Location: Forest Park Elementary
Click here to register!
Spring Carnival (sponsored by Forest Park Elementary PTA) Friday, June 4th Time: 5:00 pm—8:00 pm Location: Forest Park Elementary
Community Solar Class Saturday, June 19th Click here to register! Time: 10:00 am—11:30 am Location: TVFR #60 off Cornell Rd.
4th of July Celebration Sunday, July 4th Time: 7:00 pm—10:00 pm Location: Mill Pond
SPRING CARNIVAL AT FO R E S T PAR K EL EMENTA RY Friday, June 4th, 5-8 PM Featuring DJ/Music & Dancing, 3 Bounce Houses, Rodeo Roper, Dunk Tank and Train Food Quinn's, Sandaval's, Pizzaschmizza, and Hawaiian Shaved Ice Tickets Advance tickets will be sold starting May 24th, before and after school at Starbucks. The cost of advance tickets is 4 for $1.00.The cost of tickets at the event will be 3 for $1.00. Questions? Contact Julii Chin, Carnival Chair, at (503) 522-5573 or by email: juliichin@hotmail.com
Stories in the Park July 14th, 21st and 28th Time: 11:00 am Location: Mill Pond Park
Follow us on Facebook & Twitter! Stay on top of the latest updates, events, and announcements about the Forest Heights Homeowners Association through Facebook and Twitter. Click on the icons below to find and follow us on these two popular social media sites.
Page 3
Solarizing Forest Heights
The Momentum is Building!
S
olarize Forest Heights, the community solar program in our community, held its first community education class on May 18th at Forest Park Elementary. The class was packed with over 25 attendees representing 15 residences. Of the 15 residences, 14 enrolled in the solar program! More than 40 residences have signed up to attend one of the free community solar classes and the momentum continues to build. We have also received numerous enquiries about the community solar program from our neighbors outside Forest Heights. If you know someone who lives nearby who may be interested in going solar at drastically reduced prices, please let them know that they can participate in the program and ask them to attend one of the free solar classes. So just what is community solar? Community solar, or Solarize Forest Heights, is a program designed to offer a neighborhood (or geographical area) very attractive incentives for group installations of roof top solar systems. The more residents who sign up and install solar systems, the greater reduction in price for all who take advantage of this program. Interested residents must sign up for the community solar program by June 30th to be able to take advantage of having solar panels designed for, and installed on,
their homes at significantly discounted costs. In addition, Imagine Energy, the company working with the FHHOA on this program, is providing several other energy savings upgrades to our residents (home performance assessment, solar water heating, instant water heating, solar attic fans, etc.) at discounted rates if enough people sign up for the program. Imagine Energy will hold two more community education classes in June. You must attend one of these free classes in order to sign up for the community solar program and begin to take advantage of these great savings. The classes will be held on: •
Tuesday, June 1st Forest Park Elementary 7:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
•
Saturday, June 19th TVFR Fire Station #60 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
There were quite a few interesting discussions and questions at our first class. The following is a brief synopsis of the Q&A from the class: I am concerned about the roof work? What assurance do I have that the work will be reliable?
All roofing work is performed by a roofing company. Imagine Energy uses Fisher Roofing, one of the
best roofers in the state. The use of professional roofers, for the roof work related to the solar installation, removes the uncertainty about roof impact and allows for installations on any roof type. Furthermore, the roofing company and Imagine Energy are both licensed, bonded and insured and have been around. Is it difficult to perform roof maintenance once solar has been installed?
Not at all, but the solar disconnects must be performed by a solar technician. The panels are installed with sufficient clearance above the roof so that you can get in between the roof and the panel for cleaning, and leaves and debris can wash away. The panels can always be removed if extensive maintenance is required. Note that solar installation is done on roofs that have a minimum longevity of 10 years. The panels themselves require no maintenance. Can the panels withstand hailstorms and our winters?
Absolutely. Solar panels were first designed for rugged and remote terrains such as mountain tops and space. All installations are done to code and can withstand out weather events. There are stories one hears about RVs going through tornadoes and getting completely ripped apart but the solar panels on them remained intact. continued on page 5 Page 4
continued from page 4
Why do I see differing prices? Our newsletter articles had a price of around $900 while the class shows a price of around $4,000.
The pricing that you see has been the same - the price to look for is the $/W (dollar per watt). When you see differences in total costs, you are looking at different system sizes. The $/W depends on the number of installations which depends on the number of people who enroll into the program. The total system price depends on the size of the system you want. The minimum system size is 2,000W. The maximum system size will depend on the feasible roof area. Each resident will ultimately make the call on the system size based on what is possible, the amount of energy they want to generate (or the amount of PGE consumption they want to reduce) and their budget.
Do the tax credits depend upon my tax bracket or if I pay AMT?
As far as we know, solar tax credits for residences do not depend upon the tax brackets or Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT). Please consult your tax professional for confirmation. After the class, we had the chance to catch up with Frank Klatil, a resident and class attendee, to get his impressions on the class. Frank, a software engineer, lives on Caxton Court with his family and has been a Forest Heights resident since 1999. Following are highlights from that conversation: •
Become aware of the program and the class by reading the newsletter
•
Attend the class to get specific questions answered such as how
the panels are mounted on the roof •
Key takeaways from the class: Remaining roof life and condition of the roof is important
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Topic to research more: Tax incentives and applicability
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Message to other residents: Going solar is a no-brainer, it’s simply the right thing to do
Residents can register online for these classes by clicking here, or by visiting the FHHOA website. ~ Devidas Gupta, G2 Committee Chair and Forest Heights Resident ~
Page 5
H OA M A N AG E R U P DAT E
NEWS FROM THE MANAGERS DESK
Annual Meeting and Election of Officers On May 4th the association held its annual meeting and the following residents were elected to the Board of Directors for a three year term: Mark Sanzone and Ric Barton. The following week your new board elected the following officers for 2010: •
Eric Butterfield, President
•
Mike Fletcher, Vice President
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Sherrill Corbett, Secretary
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Ric Barton, Treasurer
The association appreciates your participation in the election and in establishing a quorum for the annual meeting.
Parks and Recreation Committee Improvement of Lot 265 Last week the landscape construction of lot 265 commenced. The passive park landscape design will start to take shape over the next several weeks with completion by July 4th (weather permitting). The landscape design entails a branched pathway with several view benches and rolling grass hills with intermittent landscape beds. The landscape plan runs from the monument wall to Murdock Street and the design is connected by a perimeter sidewalk. Please be careful when traveling through this intersection and watch out for construction vehicles.
FHHOA Board Project Mill Pond Restoration To dredge or not to dredge is the question. As reported last month the board is investigating other restoration options and costs for the restoration of Mill Pond. Hopefully this analysis will be completed shortly. Mill Pond is a private facility that is part of the Forest Heights Storm Drain System/Master Plan. It has a detention function, but that function may be mitigated with a wetland design instead of a pond design. Since it is a private facility, the Bureau of Environmental Services (BES) does not have maintenance or ownership responsibilities for the facility, but will still want to be involved with reviewing/ approving any changes that may affect the Forest Heights Drainage Master Plan as the pond area is part of the system that conveys “public” water through the basin. The decision to explore alternative options for Mill Pond will delay any restoration work on the pond until sometime in 2011. During this period of exploration the board appreciates your understanding and welcomes your comments.
EcoShuttle Schedule Revision The board reviewed the annual transportation contract with EcoShuttle. EcoShuttle proposed a significant price increase this year due to operational losses. This
price increase was primarily due to maintenance and repair costs of the bus caused by our hilly location. The Safety, Streetscape and Transportation Committee (SST) investigated and negotiated with EcoShuttle and made the following recommendation to the board: maintain the existing contract costs and implement a 3 hour service break midday. As a plus, ecoShuttle will provide a 25 passenger bus versus the current 20. There were no other changes to the shuttle schedule. PROs: •
No cost increase
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Keeps us in compliance with city requirements
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Impacts the lightest usage/ ridership hours
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Relieves overcrowding at peak hours
CONs: •
Service break for 3 hours
Please see page 7 for the new EcoShuttle schedule, which is effective June 1, 2010. Should you have a specific interest or concerns with these changes please e-mail the association at: contactus@fhhoa.com. Until next month, ~ Stephen Herr FHHOA General Manager ~ Page 6
Clip & pocket this new schedule
NEW! ecoShuttle Schedule EFFECTIVE TUESDAY, JUNE 1, 2010 ecoSHUTTLE ROUTE The ecoShuttle runs every 1/2 hour (excluding the service break) along the following route and back from 6:30 am to 9:00 pm, Monday—Friday
1. Miller Road & Thompson Road 2. Miller Road & Spencer Street 3. Miller Road & Durrett Lane/Forest Park Elementary 4. Miller Road @ The Village Center 5. Miller Road & Hazeltine Road 6. Miller Road & Hawkins Blvd. 7. Miller-Barnes Center near QFC (corner of Miller/Barnes)* 8. Barnes Road at Catlin Gabel School* 9. Barnes Road at Providence/ St. Vincent Hospital * 10. Sunset Transit Center *STOPS 7, 8 & 9
Riders must board the ecoShuttle as it proceeds to the Sunset Transit Station in order to return to Forest Heights HOA. Shuttle returns to Forest Heights via Cedar Mill Blvd. to Cornell Road to Miller Road.
From Miller & Thompson
To Sunset Transit
From Sunset Transit
To Miller & Thompson
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Service Break
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For inclement weather or service delays, call the Pre-recorded Route Information Line:
8:30 PM
8:45 PM
8:45 PM
9:00 PM
503.517.8566
9:00 PM
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RIDERSHIP GUIDELINES The ecoShuttle is available for use by Forest Heights HOA residents only. Riders must sign ridership log upon boarding and provide a valid name and FHHOA address Smoking is prohibited at shuttle stops Children under the age of 10 must be accompanied by an adult No animals are allowed on the shuttle with the exception of service animals The shuttle is not intended to replace regular school bus service provided by Portland Public Schools The shuttle has a maximum capacity of 25 passengers Shuttle is equipped with a bike rack with a two bike minimum capacity Shuttle does not operate on weekends Shuttle does not operate on the following holidays: Memorial Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s Day
YOUR NEIGHBOR’S VOICE
LOCAL STUDENTS ARE INTERNATIONAL ROBOTIC WINNERS
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The Nanites, comprised of Ida Chow from Access Academy and local students Vicki Niu, Ethan Takla and Danny Brillhart from WEST SYLVAN Middle School, participated in the world championships as one of the co-state champions from Oregon. Throughout the world festival, the Nanites made many new friends and practiced gracious professionalism and focused on “what we discover is more important than what we win.” With that spirit, the Nanites cheered all other teams, on and off the competition tables, with a banner that read: “Good luck to all teams.”
Photo courtesy of Kingsum Chow
ith more than 10,000 teams around the world competing for a chance to attend the FIRST® LEGO® League (FLL) World Festival held in Atlanta Georgia last month, it came down to 84 teams from 32 countries converging in the Georgia Dome to compete in a friendly environment in LEGO robotics, research and teamwork.
The Nanites, comprised of Ida Chow from Access Academy and local students Vicki Niu, Ethan Takla and Danny Brillhart (featuring coaches Kingsum Choe and Kim Takla).
The 30 attendees liked the half hour presentation including a competing coach who remarked, “I am stunned and I don't know what questions to ask.” Every attendee at the presentation asked for a business card so they can contact the Nanites coach to access the presentation materials. In the closing ceremony, the Nanites received the prestigious first place trophy for programming, thanks to their application of math and science in programming the robot. It is perhaps the first time an Oregon team has won such an award. The Nanites are coached by Kingsum Chow (an Intel engineer) and Kim Takla.
Photo courtesy of Kingsum Chow
The Nanites were the only FIRST LEGO League team that presented a well received talk on “Designing and Testing Robots for Reliable Performance” in the FIRST Robotics Conference.
Lego robot that was programmed by The Nanites
~ With thanks to Diane Brillhart ~ Page 8
SUMMER READING PROGRAM Mark your calendars for the ―Virtues in the Park‖ Summer Reading Program: The ―Virtues in the Park‖ Summer Reading Program provides opportunities for young children to be read to during three consecutive events. At each event, 3 books will be read that focus on a chosen virtue, followed by a discussion and the singing of songs related to the virtue. A game related to the virtue will conclude the reading session. Readings will be held at beautiful Mill Pond Park, with time for questions and discussion after each reading. Each event will start at 11:00 am and will last for approximately 30 to 60 minutes. Light snacks and water will be provided. Suitable for children up to 10 years of age.
July 21st—11:00 am Virtue of Cooperation: Cooperation is working together and sharing the load. When we cooperate, we join with others to do things that cannot be done alone. We are willing to follow the rules which keep everyone safe and happy. Together we can accomplish great things.
July 28th—11:00 am Virtue of Friendliness: Friendliness is being a friend, through good times and bad. You take an interest in other people and make them feel welcome. You share your belongings, your time and yourself. Friendliness is the best cure for loneliness.
Reading schedule: July 14th—11:00 am Local children’s author David Michael Slater will kick off our summer reading program on July 14th, reading from his popular titles. David will also be leading a discussion of his reading with attendees, with books available for sale after the reading. See David’s bio below.
David Michael Slater is the author of sixteen picture books, including CHEESE LOUISE; JACQUES & SPOCK (a Children's Book-of-the-Month Alternative Selection); and FLOUR GIRL (a 2008 Mom's Choice Award winner). His six-part teen fantasy series, SACRED BOOKS, was lauded by Margie Boule. Volume I, THE BOOK OF NONSENSE, was a finalist for the Association of Booksellers for Children's Best of 2008 list and Cybil Award nominee. Volume II is THE BOOK OF KNOWLEDGE. Volume III, THE BOOK OF MAPS, will be released in October. David's first novel for adults, SELFLESS, was called a "side-splitting tour-de-force" and often compared to John Irving's A PRAYER FOR OWEN MEANY. David teaches Writing at Beaverton's Health Science High School. He lives in Hillsdale with his wife and son. Learn more about David at:
www.davidmichaelslater.com Page 9
COMPLIANCE CORNER
SUMMER FIRE SAFETY Tips for staying safe while enjoying outdoor fire pits and fireworks
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hinking about making s’mores in the back yard or getting out sparklers to celebrate the 4th of July? If so, here is important information on how to stay safe while enjoying outdoor fire pits and fireworks.
•
Outdoor Burning Portland Fire and Rescue identifies two kinds of outdoor burning that are legal within the city limits. The first is standard barbeque equipment. The second are recreational fires, defined as “burning clean, dry cord type firewood as in a standard campfire setting. When burning a fire of this type, you must build the fire in a pit or a pan prepared for this purpose. The fire must not be larger than a standard campfire, less than 3 feet in diameter, with pile less than 2 feet in height”. Specific rules for recreational fires include:
A recreational fire located in a pit shall be no closer than 25 feet from a structure. Fires contained in fireplace-type receptacles or Chimineas shall be no closer than 15 feet from a structure or the distance listed in the manufacture’s instruction, whichever is less. When required by the Fire Marshal, outdoor burning device stacks shall be equipped with a spark-arresting, 12-gauge wire mesh screen with openings of not less than 3/8‖ nor more than 1/2‖.
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A responsible person shall be in attendance at all times and have approved fire-extinguishing equipment close at hand.
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The smoke from the fire must not be of a noxious quality or amount that causes complaints from the neighbors.
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No garbage or similar material is to be burned in these fires.
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Observe common safety practices while enjoying the recreational fire, e.g. cease burning if the wind picks up to 15 mph or higher, be careful with the consumption of alcohol by any persons around the fire, watch small children in the vicinity, etc.
Burning of yard debris is prohibited within the City of Portland. More information on outdoor burning can be found at the Fire and Rescue website.
Fireworks The Oregon State Fire Marshal’s office reminds folks to practice The 3 BE’s to protect yourself and your family from fireworks related fires and injuries: Be Prepared before lighting fireworks • Use legal fireworks from licensed outlets • Always read and follow label directions Be Safe when lighting fireworks • An adult should always light fireworks – keep matches and lighters away from children • Use outdoors only, away from anything that can burn Be Responsible after lighting fireworks • Soak used fireworks thoroughly in a bucket of water • Dispose of used fireworks properly
In the State of Oregon, legal fireworks are defined as ones that produce only smoke, sparks or fire. Illegal fireworks are those that explode, eject balls of fie, fly in to the air or travel more than 6 feet on the ground or 12 inches into the air. The Oregon State Fire Marshal’s office has a poster identifying various legal and illegal fireworks. Use legal fireworks for your own personal fun; stay safe and enjoy the “big guns” at the Forest Heights community 4th of July fireworks display! Page 10
SEMI-ANNUAL DUES Look for your July 2010 semi-annual assessment invoice in your mailbox in the next two weeks. The semi-annual assessment is $288.00 and is due January 1st and July 1st each year. You can pay your assessment one of three ways:
Mail a check along with your invoice to: Forest Heights HOA M/S 14 PO Box 4100 Portland, OR 97208
Bill Pay Automatic We handle your payment for you automatically. Complete and send FHHOA this form http:// www.fhhoa.com/web/docs/forms.asp and we handle the billing for you! The association offers a 30 day grace period following the due date. A late charge of $50 is assessed to accounts 30 days or more past due. A finance charge of .75% per month is assessed to accounts 30 days or more past due.
Online Bill Pay
Set up payment through your bank. For those using an online bill paying service, please enter our office address in the payee section: 2033 NW Miller Road Portland, Oregon 97229
LANDSCAPE DO’S AND DONT’S: BARKDUST
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he Forest Heights Homeowners Architectural Guidelines require that homeowners use aged, dark bark dust (Section 5.5) as a general ground cover in the landscape.
Aged bark dust is darker in color than fresh bark dust. There are two predominant types of aged bark dust available that meet this requirement: Hemlock and Fir. Although Fir costs less, Hemlock tends to have fewer splinters, and is often preferred by homeowners with small children and by those who do their own gardening. Aged bark dust of either variety is allowed. “Fresh” bark dust, red colored bark dust and bark nuggets are not allowed as a general ground cover in landscapes. If you have any questions, please contact Molly Oliver, Compliance Coordinator, at 503-297-9400 or moliver@fhhoa.com.
YES: AGED DARK HEMLOCK OR FIR
N0: ―FRESH‖ OR RED COLORED BARK
NO: BARK CHIPS OR NUGGETS Page 11
ASK THE EXPERT
HOW TO PREVENT BECOMING A VICTIM OF CAR PROWLING
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ar prowls, the unlawful taking of motor vehicle contents or parts, has consistently been one of the top three reported crimes in Portland during the last five years. A car prowl can be completed in a minute or less and a significant number of these crimes occur between 10:00 pm to 4:00 am. Methods of entry include: entering into the vehicle through an unlocked door, breaking a window or using a wedge to gain access. The offender often wears a backpack or bag to transport stolen items. Car prowl is a crime of opportunity. An offender makes a split decision to hit a vehicle that has items of perceived value because the potential payoff is worth the risk. Items frequently stolen include GPS systems, laptops, electronic devices, CDs, mail/bills, purses/wallets, luggage, gym bags, money, cell phones, insurance cards, vehicle registration, and shopping bags. Simple Steps to Car Prowl Prevention
The good news is that car prowls are one of the easiest crimes to reduce with increased awareness and a change in habits. The following preventive measures will reduce the chances that you will be a target of a car prowl: •
Keep the interior of your car “showroom” clean. Never leave valuables, including bags, purses, wallets, briefcases, laptops, cell phones, loose change or anything that may appear valuable to a
“If everybody in Portland pulled everything out of their cars at night, there would be no car prowling.”
~ Confessions of a Car Prowler interviewed by Portland Police Bureau ~
thief in plain view. Also, remember to remove garage door openers, key cards, or house or work keys from the car so a car prowler cannot gain access to your home. •
Don't store or leave credit cards, identification or personal information in your glove box or anywhere in your car.
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If you have to leave valuables in your car, put them in the trunk before you get to your destination.
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Be Observant. When you exit or enter your parked vehicle, stop and take a look around the area.
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Before leaving your parked car, always remove the keys, roll up the windows and lock the car and set the alarm (if you have one).
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If possible, store your car in a closed and locked garage.
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If your car is stored in a carport or parked near your house, leave your exterior lights on throughout the night.
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Consider replacing the light fixture closest to your car with a motion detector unit. Motion detectors are good psychological deterrents since the normal assumption of a person seeing a light come on is that someone
has seen them. Additionally, the light makes the prowler or thief more visible. •
Create visibility. If you park on the street, choose a well-lit, open space even if it means adding additional street or yard lighting. Trim back trees or bushes that block your view of your vehicle.
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Park in busy, well-lighted areas. Avoid parking near dumpsters, woods, large vans or trucks, and anything that limits visibility.
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Keep your keys with you; avoid putting keys in “hiding places.”
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Avoid leaving your vehicle in unattended parking lots for long periods of time.
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Get to know your neighbors; share contact information phone numbers, emails and look out for each other. The people who live on the block are the most obvious ones to recognize suspicious people or suspicious activity.
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When you pay to park in a lot or garage, leave just the ignition key with the attendant. Make sure no personal information is attached. Do the same when you take your car in for repairs. continued on page 13 Page 12
continued from page 12
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•
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Carry the registration and insurance card with you when you leave your vehicle. NOTE: Make sure you have these items with you when you return. Operating the vehicle without these documents is against the law. Investigate security systems if you live in a high-theft area or drive an automobile that's an attractive target for thieves. You may get a discount on your auto insurance. Use a mechanical locking device such as a club that locks to the steering wheel, column, or brake to deter car theft. This device prevents the wheel from being turned more than a few degrees.
What to Do if Your Car is Broken Into
If you do become a victim of a car prowl, always report the crime to the police. If it's a crime in progress, contact 9-1-1. If not, contact the non -emergency number 503-823-3333 to report the incident. Take note of any details of the suspects, vehicles, and or activities, and share your observations with the police.
After a person(s) is arrested, request to pursue charges against the individual(s). Contact the District Attorney's Office (503-988-3860), to take the steps necessary to ensure that these cases are aggressively pursued. How to Work Together as Neighbors
One of the most important things to do is always report suspicious activity to the non-emergency line at 503-823-3333 and crimes in progress to 9-1-1. Encourage your neighbors to keep an eye out for any suspicious activity and to keep their cars clear of items. One car prowler stated that if a neighborhood consistently kept their vehicles free of valuables, he would move on to another neighborhood. Please share the information that you've read in this article with your neighbors and make sure to let them know if you or any of your neighbors have been a car prowl victim. ~ Officer Frank Silva, Portland Police, Office of Neighborhood Involvement ~
Serving the Forest Heights area for over 10 years! (formerly known as Bella Vista Window Cleaning) Call for a Free Estimate and a $20.00 discount on your first window cleaning!
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Page 13
GUEST COLUMNIST
I R R I G AT I O N S E A S O N I S H E R E ! Let the Portland Water bureau help you take control of your irrigation system! PART THREE IN A SERIES Guest columnist Sarah Santner, Residential Water Conservation Coordinator with the Portland Water Bureau, continues her series of articles on water issues that impact Forest Heights
W
ith the long hot days of summer just around the corner you may have started watering your lawn and perennials. The first time you turn on your irrigation system for the season you may notice leaks, misdirected heads, or areas that are getting too much or too little water. This is the perfect time to schedule a Free Irrigation Tune-Up or attend a Landscape 101 class with the Portland Water Bureau. Irrigation Tune-Up The goal of the irrigation tune-up is to help you set your irrigation controller for an optimal watering schedule, and identify areas to improve the water efficiency. Sign up for a Free Irrigation Tune-Up by calling 503-823-4527, or visit the Water Bureau website at: conserve@portlandoregon.gov.
Landscape Irrigation 101 – Reset your clock! Are you interested in running your irrigation system more efficiently? Have you read about the Portland Water Bureau’s request that Forest Heights’ neighbors update their irrigation schedule to start between 9:00pm and 1:00am? If you have an automatic irrigation system and want to learn how to water more efficiently, come to one of the Portland Water Bureau’s fun irrigation workshops. These workshops will focus on best practices for irrigation and answer any questions you might have regarding your automatic irrigation system. For people with automatic sprinklers looking to irrigate their landscape more efficiently. Workshop dates: Tuesday, June 8 6:30 pm – 7:30pm Saturday, June 26th 10:00 am – noon Tuesday, July 13th 6:30 pm – 7:30pm
Workshop location:
Fire Station 27—3130 NW Skyline Blvd. Parking is limited and carpooling is recommended. Pre-registration is encouraged but not required. Please RSVP or direct any questions to (503) 823-4527 or conserve@portlandoregon.gov.
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TH E NEW ― BA D‖ PLANT: G ARLIC MUS TARD Keep an eye out for this aggressive & noxious weed
Y
ou might not be aware of the battle going on just over the hill from Forest Heights. Our Skyline neighbors are pulling a fast-growing noxious weed by the garbage bagfuls. We’ve all heard about the threat of noxious weeds like English Ivy (and see its detrimental effect all through Forest Park). The new “bad plant on the block” is Garlic Mustard. It’s only new to Oregon as it’s made its way from the east coast. It, like all plants on Oregon’s Noxious Weed List, is a highly aggressive exotic (this one from Eurasia) that threatens the health of our local woodland habitat. It could even be in your own yard! Skyline Ridge Neighbors (SRN), Forest Park Neighborhood Association (FPNA) and Skyline Grange have teamed up to inform residents and even provide a drop-off site for its disposal. Why all the excitement?
Garlic mustard is bad because it out -competes woodland native plants by aggressively monopolizing light, moisture, nutrients, soil and space. It decreases essential native plants that wildlife depends on for foliage, pollen, nectar, fruits and roots. It negatively alters soil composition and reduces soil fungi that are vital to native hardwoods. It produces lots of seed and so spreads rapidly.
How would you know if you see it?
Garlic mustard is a biennial, meaning the plant lives for two years. During its first year, it forms a basal rosette with kidney-shaped scalloped leaves. In the spring of its second year, it bolts and elongates becoming 12-48 inches tall. Leaves alternate on the stem and are sharp toothed and triangular in shape. The four-petals white flowers grow on a single stalk. Crushing a leaf with your fingers will exude a garlic-like odor. For just a few plants, the best thing to do is pull it out. Just be sure to pull all of the roots with it. Immediately put the plants into a plastic garbage bag. Secure it tightly and put it in your garbage can. Do not compost the plants or put them in your yard debris container. Each plant can produce a 1000 seeds or more, so handle with care. For larger infestations, the City of Portland (if you live in the City limits) and, if you live in the county, the West Multnomah Soil and Water Conservation District (WMSWCD) will help eradicate them. For the City’s help, go to http:// www.portlandonline.com/bes/ index.cfm?c=49877 and for the WMSWCD go to http:// www.wmswcd.org/content.cfm/ News--Events/Beware-of-GarlicMustard,29.
Garlic Mustard: First year
Garlic Mustard: Second year
If we’re all aware of the threat of Garlic Mustard to our property and natural areas, it hopefully won’t become a major problem in Forest Heights. You can learn more about Garlic Mustard on the Web. I found this video to be especially helpful: http://www.in-sitevideo.com/wff/ garlicmustard.html. Credit goes to Sen Speroff of Skyline Ridge Neighbors for much of the content in this article. http:// srnpdx.org/garlic-mustard-threatskylines-woodland-habitat ~ Lynn Putnam, Forest Heights Resident and Go Green Committee member ~
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“The greatest virtue of man is perhaps curiosity.”
Q: A: COLUMN: ASK THE MANAGER 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.
- Anatole France
What is the current policy on signs in the Forest Heights community? Answer: Administrative Resolution
# 2 addresses “Signs, Notices and Aesthetic Appearance” of all signs within the Forest Heights Community. Click here for a complete copy of that policy. Over the last several years, variances to this resolution were granted by the Architectural Review Committee (examples include Village Center real estate signage. The association will continue to enforce our resolution and sign policies, reviewing each request individually. For additional information about real estate signage, see “Exhibit A” of the Real Estate Signage Policy. The association supports our local schools and their activities. School, PTA and Foundation activities may post signs prepared by the respective organization with a school or organization logo printed on the sign. Signs should be no larger than 18”x24” and need prior approval. The approval process will include defining the dates when the signs may be put up and should be taken down. Approval is required each time the sign is used. These signs will be posted by school staff or volunteers at the designated event sign locations as determined by FHHOA. Local schools are defined as the public elementary, middle and high schools serving Forest Heights. Signs for community-based sports organizations require prior approval. The approval process will include defining the dates when the signs may be put up and should be taken down. If approved, the signs should be no larger than 18” x 24” and will be posted by organization staff or volunteers at the Forest Heights event sign locations. Factors such as the connection to the Forest Heights community, the number of
community and school-related signs currently posted, as well as other factors, may be taken into account in the approval process. Homeowners may post political signs for any upcoming election on their own property. The number of signs may be regulated by the association. House numbers are not to be painted or otherwise indicated on street curbs. Rental signs must conform to the provisions in the Real Estate Sign Policy (see “Exhibit A”). Signs from other outside organizations are prohibited. Signs posted without permission within Forest Heights will be removed and discarded. When such signs are posted on individual lot(s), the lot owner will be contacted with a request to remove the sign. The association will continue to remove unauthorized signs without notice and/or require the lot owner to remove the sign(s). Commercial signs, general notices, garage sale signs, personal signs, announcements, and other display materials are not permitted in the common areas or along the public and private roadways within Forest Heights. The association has a resident bulletin board in the Village Center for posting notices, under association control. Please assist management and staff to curb unauthorized signs by reporting them immediately to the office. Thank you.
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GO GREEN COMMITTEE LOOKING FOR VOLUNTEERS The G2 committee is looking for a couple of dedicated volunteers who would like to organize a gardening workshop and harvest share events
Lynn Marshall
in the community. Volunteering will require one
Broker, Coldwell Banker
weekend day per month over the summer. If you are interested, please contact the G2 Committee chair Devidas at: devidas_gupta@yahoo.com
• • • • •
Licensed realtor for over 25 years Involved in Forest Heights development from its inception in 1989 Lived in Forest Heights for 15 years Oregon native University of Oregon graduate
lynnmarshall@cbseal.com Direct: (503) 780-1890
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PERSONAL TRAINER
Forest Heights PERSONAL TRAINER will train you in your home. I offer strength, flexibility, and metabolic training to burn fat and gain lean muscle. I am NASM Certified CPT and CES corrective exercise and am a TRX Trainer. I have the experience and techniques to get you results! www.fitnessbybobbi.com 360-909-2881 GERMAN SESSIONS/TUROTING (PRESCHOOL TO ADULT) Experienced licensed teacher for German. Native speaker. Located in Forest Heights. My home or yours. Flexible hours, reasonable rates. Please e-mail for information or to schedule an evaluation: tonie.weiss@yahoo.com 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
CLASSIFIED ADS EXPERIENCED VEHICLE BROKER Lives in Forest Heights, deals with NEW and PRE-OWNED vehicles, able to evaluate and take trade-ins, eager to help you save lots of TIME and MONEY on your next vehicle purchase or lease. I can get you EXACTLY what you want, NOT what the dealer wants you to buy. Give me a try. Peter Bigley 503-926-4961.
PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZER
FOR LEASE Spectacular Ocean Views. Multi-Year Lease available; option to purchase. Great value, half the cost of mortgage. Telecommute or vacation; new 2200 sq ft upscale home in Oceanside, OR. $1250 per month. Pets negotiable. 503-475-1406. For pictures see http://oceansideoregoncondo.com
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. www.organizingspaces.com
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
MATURE HOUSESITTER Single, responsible retiree living in Forest Heights willing to offer full service house sitting, including pet care, plant care, mail collection and monitoring of home security. Can sleep over or drop by on a regular basis, depending on your needs. $25 per day basic charge. Call Wendy at 503.810.8248 or 503.297.2402
FOR RENT SKI HOOD -- COLLINS LAKE RESORT -- New sleeps 8 3BR, 2.5BATH, 2CAR garage, pools, spa, hot tub , trails 4 seasons—ski, hike, fish, boat, snowmobile. Friends and family rate to FHHOA RESDENTS mentioning this ad. LOREN HOTCHKISS 503-291-9822 lorenhotchkiss9821@msn.com RIVERWILD BEND VACATION HOME Beautifully appointed/well-equipped. 3 bdrms, 2 ½ baths. Sleeps 6-8. Great location off Century Drive just 17 minutes to Mt. Bachelor and 2 minutes Old Mill District and all the wonderful Bend restaurants! Forest Heights Residents receive 10% off our published rates! Visit our Vacation Rental by Owner Website: www.vrbo.com/204838 for rates/availability.
16 years old
BABYSITTING SERVICE AVAILABLE! Call Emilie Jackson @ 503-282-1598 Attends St. Mary’s Academy And, lots of experience with kids.
PIANO LESSONS Experienced, young, fun, great with kids. Open to all skill levels, looking for motivated young musicians! Located in Forest Heights. Flexible hours. Email Elizabeth at eaflick@gmail.com for more information. PIANO STUDIO-ACCEPTING NEW STUDENTS Forest Heights Piano Studio now accepting new students. I specialize in beginning students. Walking distance from Forest Park elementary. Give your child the gift of music. $20.00 per 1/2 hour or $30.00 for one hour. Please call 503.804.1172 or email lakresl@gmail.com 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 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.
BABYSITTING – INFANTS & TODDLERS THROUGH AGE 5
Set your mind at ease with this grandmother babysitting your infant and/or toddler through age 5. Caring, experienced, dependable, actively involved grandmother of five grandchildren and retired professional. I have volunteered at the Children’s Hospital in Seattle, caring for infants when parents were not available. I am Red Cross emergency trained. $15/hour, providing my own transportation. Available most evenings, some days, seven days a week. Short notice OK if I’m available. References gladly. Call Linda at 503.522.4397 BABYSITTING SERVICE AVAILABLE! Call Hannah Curtis @ 503-310-0244 • 17 years old • Able to drive • Straight-A student • And, lots of experience with kids 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. 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
RENTAL NON-SMOKER, NO PETS, SEEKING 3 BEDROOM HOUSE IN FOREST HEIGHTS FOR MINIMUM 1 YEAR LEASE. $1500-1800/MONTH. CONTACT: mural72@hotmail.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. 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
FRIENDLY CAT NEEDS A NEW HOME Friendly, super cuddly 8 year old cat, looking for a new home. Named Romeo. We've had him since a kitten, but have since had a child and expecting another very soon. He would never harm anyone, little or big, just doesn't like his tail pulled or being tackled. Needs someone who can give him the attention he craves. If you're in need of a furry companion, please call Angie at 503.756.7985 RESPONSIBLE FOREST HEIGHTS TENANT LOOKING TO RENT I am a Forest Heights resident looking to rent a mother-in-law home or studio apartment within Forest Heights. I prefer a one-year lease agreement but am open to a month-to-month arrangement. I am a non-smoker and do not have any pets. My expected move-in date is May 1, 2010, $1,000 – 1,500/month. Contact me at: hella@cascasewestern.com 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. 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 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 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 PET CARE / PLANT WATERING Responsible 12 year old FH resident will provide caring, experienced nurture for your pets and plants. For the last four years we have cared for numerous neighborhood pets, watered an abundance of vegetation and provided many dogs a daily walk. Thank you to all our repeat customers. References available. Reid and Trent 503-203-1491 BABYSITTER My name is Jamie, I am a senior at Lincoln High School, I have 3 brothers and two half sisters (4 of which are younger than me). I have a lot of experience with children—I just love them! I can drive and have my own car. I have an $10.00 flat rate fee for babysitting. I am very reliable and can provide references upon request. I am willing to take care of any pets (I have two of my own dogs and have many other pets in the past) and/or your house if and when you are gone. I can collect mail, water plants, etc. My rates for that can be negotiated. I am available pretty much 24/7. My phone number is: (503) 453-0720, please feel free to call anytime! FURNITURE FOR SALE A Dania desk (59‖ x 29‖) and credenza (37‖ x 18‖)– 4 years old, great condition. $200 for both. Vintage 70’s bedroom suite w/dresser (9 drawers), two end tables (2 drawers) and armoire $300 for the set, good condition. Ethan Allen wing chair $50 great piece to recover. Vintage 50’s sofa (7’ with nail head trim) and chair $125 for both OBO. Brass Head and Footboard for a Double/Queen bed ($200) and also a wood (furniture) headboard for a double/queen bed ($50) OBO. Contact: Danielle 503-200-3880 (business hours only).
Here’s a snapshot of FHHOA activities and meetings from June—July 10th. Print and keep this calendar in a handy spot so you’ll have access to
MARK YOUR CALENDAR Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
what’s happening in your community.
Wednesday 1
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
2
3
4
5
8
9
10
11
12
15
16
17
18
19
Safety, Streetscape GO GREEN and Transportation Committee Committee 6:00 pm 12:00 pm
June 2010
Community Solar Class 7:30 pm 6
7
Board of Directors Meeting 6:00 pm 13
14
Community Activities Committee 12:00 pm 20
Community Solar Class 10:00 am 21
22
23
28
29
30
24
25
26
1
2
3
8
9
10
Budget & Finance Committee 6:00 pm 27
July 2010 4
4th of July Celebration Mill Pond Park 7:00—10:00 pm
5
6
Safety, Streetscape GO GREEN and Transportation Committee Committee 6:00 pm 12:00 pm
7