Forest Heights May 2013 Newsletter

SMART HOUSE

Smartphone technology put to use inside homes for energy savings

NEWS FROM THE MANAGER Monthly update from the General Manager’s Desk

GARAGE SALE

Our spring community garage sale is June 1st.

Register today!

pinnacle press Monthly Newsletter for the Residents of the Forest Heights Homeowners Association

MAY•2013

meet bob heimbucher, volunteer of the year see page 14

FOREST HEIGHTS ANNUAL MEETING OF HOMEOWNERS 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 | 2012-2013 Mark Sanzone—President Heather Gaitan—Vice President Stuart Roberts—Secretary Don Bielen—Treasurer Greg Maletic Mary Shuhert Kyle Abraham

Association Staff Jennifer Callaghan—General Manager email: jcallaghan@fhhoa.com Judith Souers—Office Administrator email: jsouers@fhhoa.com

T

he Annual Meeting of Forest Heights Homeowners is coming up on May 7th from 7:00 pm to 8:30 pm at Forest Park Elementary.

The purpose of the annual meeting is two-fold: first and foremost, the meeting provides homeowners with the opportunity to learn what is going on in the neighborhood. During the annual meeting, you’ll hear reports from the HOA Committee Chairs who are hard at work to make Forest Heights such a desirable community. Also reporting at the annual meeting will be FHHOA General Manager, Jennifer Callaghan, who will update the community on the “big picture” efforts of the association.

The second purpose of the annual meeting is to allow homeowners to vote in new Board of Directors. This year four residents have volunteered to serve our community by running for two open seats on the board. You can read their biographies and statements on pages 8 and 9 of this newsletter, or view them online here.

We encourage all homeowners to attend the annual meeting, however, if you cannot attend in person, please take the time to vote and complete the proxy online. In order to conduct business at this meeting (and elect the Board of Directors), we must have 20% of all properties represented at the meeting either in person or via proxy. Here are other voting options:

Kimberly Monaco—Marketing, Communications & Event Coordinator email: kmonaco@fhhoa.com

• Vote in-person at the meeting • Vote by electronic absentee ballot

Richard Metzger—Maintenance Supervisor

• Vote by directed proxy

Juan Guerrero—Maintenance Team

by noon on May 7th. If you plan to vote at the annual meeting you will receive a ballot at the meeting.

If you want to know more about the community, and are looking for ways to get more involved, why not consider joining one of the many active committees here in Forest Heights?

FHHOA committees assist the board with specific areas of responsibility, and bring information to the board which can result in decisions and actions.

We have some great committees:

• Budget and Finance • Communications • Safety, Streetscape and Transportation

• Go Green, Natural Habitat, Trails and Landscape

• Parks and Recreation • Community Activities Information about these committees can be found on our association website: www.fhhoa.com Better yet, why not come to the annual meeting and introduce yourself to the committee chairs? They’ll be happy to tell you more about the work they do, what is required from a committee member and what kinds of projects the committees are currently working on.

The more participants the better!

• Vote by mail If you plan to cast your vote electronically, please note that you can do so until midnight, May 6th. Hard copy proxy and mail votes must be received 3

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PRESIDENT’S CORNER

FROM YOUR BOARD PRESIDENT Dear Forest Height’s Residents, This is my last president's message.

After three years on the board and two years as president my term ends this week. Like most things in life it has passed quicker than expected. This week you will elect two new board members (please vote!) and next week the board will choose a new president. I feel comfortable moving on as we have a seasoned, well functioning board and staff. The transition should be smooth.

I will still be engaged with the home owners association as I am continuing my role in two committees: Safety, Streets & Transportation, and the Association Management Oversight Committee. In addition I remain on the NW Heights board which represents Forest Heights and six neighboring developments.

They say you should not join a board for personal gain, but I did gain a lot personally:

Upcoming FHHOA Board Meeting

• I got to meet and work with a great bunch of volunteers on the board and committees

• I really got to know the wonderful staff that keeps the HOA running day to day

• I had an education on running a

Tuesday, May 14th Time: 6:30 pm Location: FHHOA Office All homeowners are encouraged to attend!

small business and working with the city

• I felt the rewards of helping to keep this a beautiful and great community!

Farewell,

~ Mark Sanzone, FHHOA Board President ~

Want to advertise in the Forest Heights Newsletter?

When you advertise in the FHHOA 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, a monthly email blast and on our website.

For ad rates, submission deadlines and general information, please contact Kim Monaco by email at: kmonaco@fhhoa.com or by phone 503.297.9400.

Page 4

Spring Community Garage Sale set for June 1st!

Have you been collecting items for the next Forest Heights Community Garage Sale? If so, it’s time to start marking your items! The Forest Heights Annual spring community garage sale will be held on Saturday, June 1st. Is the idea of a Community Garage Sale new to you? Here’s how it works:

WHAT YOU DO: To participate in the sale, register online by midnight May 30th Pick up your balloon (starting at 8:00 am) on the day of the sale at the Village Center Host your garage sale & have fun!

WHAT THE ASSOCIATION DOES: Advertises the sale in local newspapers Provides garage sale signage in the neighborhood and along NW Cornell and NW Sykline Creates and prints maps of participating homes for shoppers to use on the day of the sale Provides participating sales homeowners with helium balloons so shoppers can more easily find your home Arranges for the pick-up of your unsold garage sale items by a charitable organization on the Monday following the sale (June 3rd)

>> REGISTER ONLINE TIPS FOR A SUCCESSFUL GARAGE SALE • Provide shopping bags & boxes for your shoppers

• Make sure you have old newspaper on hand to wrap glassware

• Do not price your items too high • Consider grouping like items together for greater impact

• To mark your items faster, purchase pre-printed price stickers available at most office supply stores

• Keep plenty of cash and change in a locked cash box

• Offer 1/2 off pricing during last hour of the sale Page 5

NOTICE:ANNUAL MEETING OF THE FOREST HEIGHTS HOMEOWNERS A S S O C I AT I O N The Board of Directors of the Forest Heights Homeowners Association hereby gives Notice of the Annual Meeting of Homeowners Date: Tuesday May 7, 2013

Vote in-person at the meeting



To vote in person, you must execute a ballot at the annual meeting

Vote by electronic absentee ballot To vote electronically, you must vote by midnight on Monday, May 6, 2013, and you may either:

Time: 7:00 to 8:30 pm

Vote on-line at the association’s website

Location: Forest Park Elementary School

Email an electronic absentee ballot to: vote@fhhoa.com. The email must contain: 1.) how you elect to cast your vote 2.) your name, property address, and electronic signature listed as (“/first and last name/”)

The purpose of the meeting is to: (1) elect two (2) individuals to serve as members of the Forest Heights’ Board of Directors (“Directors”) (2) discuss such other matters as come before the owners at the meeting. Members of record as of May 1, 2013 are eligible to vote in this election Directors need not be residents of Forest Heights, nor



Neither an electronic absentee ballot, nor an on-line absentee ballot, may be revoked.

Vote by directed proxy  To vote by directed proxy your completed and signed proxy must be physically received by noon on May 7th, 2013 and may be:

are they required to be owners of property within Forest Heights. The two (2) individuals elected will be elected to

Mailed or hand delivered to the HOA office

serve a three year term.

Faxed to the association at: 503.297.9408

NOTE: In order to conduct business at the annual meeting, the association must establish a quorum of 20% of the membership entitled to vote. This requires 362 owners to be present either in person, by electronic absentee ballot or by proxy.

Emailed to the association at: vote@fhhoa.com Hand delivered to the annual meeting on May 7th All ballots or proxies must be received and verified by the inspectors of elections by the close of the voting period on May 7, 2013 to be counted as a valid vote.

The voting period may be extended by the board of directors if a quorum is not present at the annual meeting.

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From the FHHOA Board of Directors

Update on Tract R Development Plan

O

ne of the major projects that is being undertaken by the FHHOA in 2013 is the landscaping and replanting of Tract R, which has been the subject of much discussion by the community for several years.

Numerous designs have been proposed and reviewed by both the Parks and Recreation committee and the Board of Directors. In addition, there have been several surveys undertaken to see how Forest Heights residents would like this parcel developed. In 2012 the most recent community survey was completed and the results indicated that the creation of some usable open space and some regrading, landscaping and planting was all that was needed by the community. The survey also indicated that any work be completed with a modest expenditure. A top priority for residents who competed the survey indicated that the project budget should not require a special assessment. These factors have led to the development of the landscape plan which is now under board review.

The project is in the final design and approval phases, and the board of directors has proposed a plan that has the following features:

• Construction of a new and improved pathway through the park suitable for use by all ages and physical abilities

• Creation of flat and open areas for the recreational use of residents

• Provision of benches and picnic tables, with barbeque pits for the use of residents

• Removal of some trees to facilitate the use of open spaces

• Planting of approximately three times the number of trees that are removed

• Landscaping of the area to provide attractive and

The board of directors will make a final commitment to the project and allocate the necessary funds in the May board meeting. Residents that would like to review the proposed plans may see them at the association offices or review the pdf drawing on the FHHOA website.

Over the past two years, there have been a number of open house meeting where residents have been able to review the proposed plans and provide comments.

Some excellent comments and ideas have already been received and reviewed by the board of directors. Some residents are concerned about the removal of several mature trees from the park. The association is still collecting comments from residents and a comment form may be completed online. Additional comments will be reviewed by the board of directors before final approval of the project.

Following board approval the construction permits will be submitted in June 2013 and subject to permit approval the site regrading work will be accomplished in late summer. New plantings will be made in the fall of 2013, and the new park features should be available to residents in the spring of 2014. ~ FHHOA Board of Directors ~

useful contours suitable for park use and to maintain the privacy and security of neighboring residents

• Replanting of area with native and drought resistant species

• Provision of a stepped amphitheater feature to enable small outdoor group gatherings, music or theatrical performances, or other community organized events Page 7

Meet the

CANDIDATES

your forest heights hoa board candidates for 2013 CANDIDATE NAME DONALD CIFFONE Background I’ve been living in Portland for the past nineteen. Laurelhurst on the East side for eighteen years and now in Forest Heights for the past year. Father of three grown sons, grandfather of two boys and two girls, all of whom live in California.

A retired widow. Moved to Forest heights for a change, and because I wanted a more quiet and beautiful place to live out the twilight of my remaining years.

Born in New York City, entered the Air Force and served in Korea to get the GI Bill and attend college. After the service, I’ve spent the rest of my life on the West coast in Washington, California and Oregon.

Candidate Experience Worked as a research engineer for thirty-three years. Retired from NASA as the Chief of the Advanced Systems Research Office. Authored many articles for scientific journals, was a Distinguished Lecturer and Associate Fellow for the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics.

Received several meritorious awards including being asked to give a presentation in Europe at an international meeting on cerebral

blood flow about my research at the Stanford University Hospital.

Taught math and physics at both the high school and college levels.

Was a Loaned Executive from NASA to The United Way of Santa Clara, California.

BS in Aeronautical Engineering, University of Washington, 1960, MS in Aeronautics & Astronautics, Stanford University, 1969, MA in Spirituality, Santa Clara University, 1994 Volunteer work includes coaching youth sports and managing a community water system in the Santa Cruz mountains.

Candidate Statement Since I am now retired, and have more free time, I would like to be useful by helping others and the community in which I live. I believe that I have been blessed with many gifts and life experiences, and would like to share them in any way that I might, to help keep this community looking beautiful and being peaceful, and in the process to get to know more of the folks in Forest Heights. My experience in management and leadership roles at all levels, my volunteer work (much of which could not be listed above due to lack of space) at all levels, will be valuable in working cooperatively with other folks here in Forest Heights to keep our living space the serene and beautiful place that it is.

CANDIDATE NAME PAMELA MORRIS Background My husband and I moved to Portland from Arlington, Virginia four years ago to help with our grandson, whose mother runs Nike's US program for addressing physical inactivity in children and whose father is a developmental economist around the world. I am a child of the Northwest, who always dreamed of returning here, and Portland reminds me of the Seattle of my youth. We chose Forest Heights because it is a physically beautiful neighborhood, it has a diversity of ages and backgrounds, and it is close in, convenient, and safe. It was a happy surprise to discover that it is also a community that fosters a sense of community.

Candidate Experience I am a graduate of Wellesley College. I worked for several years as a college placement officer before having two daughters.

During their early school years, I volunteered as a room mother.

When they were a bit older and in school, I attended George Mason University College of Law, and I then worked for over 20 years as a civilian attorney for the Department of the Navy. Sixteen of those years were as a senior environmental counsel, so I have many years of continued on page 9  Page 8

MEET THE CANDIDATES continued from page 8

experience in working with federal and state regulators. For the last four years, my volunteering has been limited to working with my grandson, but he is now in school, and I have the time to devote to other interests. My husband and I enjoy City Club of Portland as one way to keep up with local issues.

Candidate Statement I believe that the biggest issue facing any community as nice as Forest Heights is maintaining something that works. We are very lucky to have great trails, a playground that is alive with children, a park that is used by young and old, and a neighborhood school filled with children eager to learn. I am somewhat wary, however, of adding additional amenities, which may lead to unintended results and require neighbors to pay for facilities that benefit only a few. At the same time, I have been struck by how little the City of Portland offers Northwest residents, compared, for example, to our neighbors in Washington County, and believe this is a matter to be addressed by the Northwest Neighborhood Associations.

CANDIDATE NAME GALEN NOLL Background My wife and I lived in the Pearl District of NW Portland for the last three years and moved to Forest Heights last June. Our son Shea is an active fifteen month old who loves the children’s park and all the holiday activities at our community center. Our dog Marley quickly adapted to his new backyard; made a few canine friends and enjoyed the brief dusting of snow this winter.

We have become close to neighbor-

hood families and enjoy having dinner parties. Our entire family loves this community!

Candidate Experience My wife and I have lived and traveled throughout the world. We both have college degrees. We volunteer our time and donate our money to local charities, from The Friendly House to CHAP to Friends of Trees.

We own two small businesses—IC @ Keller Williams Realty and ASULA Chiropractic & Wellness Center—and are members of the Pearl District Business Association.

We love to ski Mt. Hood and stay on a family farm in Hood River.

We have a home in Cannon Beach that we share with friends to enjoy those NW winter storms. We understand the importance of community and how fortunate we are to live here.

Candidate Statement I would like to be helpful in preserving the integrity of the Forest Heights community for the current and future homeowners (and their families). My real estate profession provides a natural comparison between HOA rules and the freedom of homeowners as it relates to value. As an owner of two small businesses, I have insight into various functions of efficient and effective business strategies that could be useful as a member of the Board and to the community at large. Thank you for the opportunity to apply.

CANDIDATE NAME JAMIE O’HALLOREN Background I was born and raised in Portland, and can’t imagine living anywhere else. My hus-

band Patrick has lived here in Forest Heights for 20 years, and when we married in 2007, my daughter and I joined him. Patrick is a Pediatric Urologist and he has two teenage sons; my daughter is a 5th grader at Forest Park Elementary. Both Patrick and I have dedicated our lives to taking care of others, and we are quite proud of our little blended family. We value learning and between the two of us, we have more than 20 years of advanced education beyond college. That’s a lot of schooling, but we both love it!

Experience I have a masters degree in counseling psychology and will finish my PhD in health psychology by the fall of 2013. I worked at OHSU as a manager and computer support analyst for nine years before opening up my private counseling practice in 2004. In 2008 I started a multidisciplinary health and wellness clinic in NW Portland: it houses counselors, naturopaths, massage therapists and an acupuncturist.

I have volunteered my time at numerous social service agencies in the greater Portland area, and also at Forest Park Elementary.

I am actively involved in my community and am always seeking out ways that I can help other people.

Statement I love Forest Heights and take great pride in our community. As a counselor I have excellent interpersonal and mediating skills, which would be beneficial as a Board member.

I believe in fairness and hearing all sides as problems are discussed and solved. I am detail-oriented and conscientious, and would consider it a great honor to serve on the Board and advocate for the members of our wonderful neighborhood.

Page 9

Upcoming Community Events Annual Meeting Date: Tuesday, May 7th Time: 7:00 to 8:00 pm Location: Forest Park Elementary

Wine and Real Estate Date: Thursday, May 16th Time: 5:00 pm to 7:30 pm Location: Kaer Property Group

Shred Day Date: Saturday, May 18th Time: 9:00 am to 11:00 am Location: Village Center Parking Lot

Forest Heights Book Club Date: May 28th Time: 7:00 to 8:00 pm Location: Bethany Village Starbucks

Spring Carnival Date: Friday, May 31st Time: 5:00 to 8:00 pm Location: Forest Park Elementary

Surfin’ USA Forest Park Elementary Spring Carnival

I

t all beings with a few white tents popping up on the playground, then tables are set out, animals amble in from their trailers, soon cotton candy is spun to life, laughter fills the air and children flitter from one activity to the next while parents catch-up and take snap shots. YES, it’s that time of year again!

The annual Spring Carnival will be held on Friday, May 31st from 5:00 – 8:00 p.m. at Forest Park Elementary. Every year a different theme is chosen to keep the activities varied from year to year. This year’s theme is “Surfin’ USA”, so surf on by this community event where all are included and invited. Think beach balls, flip-flops, sunshine and sand… our carnival this year will prove to be grand!

If you care to volunteer please contact Deborah Crews at dcrews@pps.net. Student volunteers who are working toward fulfilling community service hours are welcome. If you are coming for the fun, hope for sun – we have been extremely lucky with the weather the past few years, but in true Portland style, this is a rain or shine event. As the sun sets on our day, the inflatables let out a sigh and shrivel, the last of the hot dogs are passed out to the visiting fire fighters, the field is swept clear of celebrating 5 th graders and parents clasp little hands, leading them from one of the most memorable days of the school year. Be sure you are a part of this moment and splish-splash; come on by for the Beach Party Bash!

Get engaged!

The Community Activities Committee

Community Garage Sale Date: June 1st Time: 9:00 am to 3:00 pm Location: Forest Heights Neighborhood

is looking for new members! If you have a passion for planning large or small community events or have a passion for fund-raising, please think about joining the committee! Our next meeting is Monday, May 6th at 6:00 pm at the HOA office. Stop by and learn more about this committee.

Page 10

Free Community Shred Day in Forest Heights Are you holding on to statements, old bills or other outdated confidential papers? Save space, protect yourself from identity theft and help the environment at the same time by shredding your documents at our free onsite shred event. On Saturday, May 18th from 9:00 to 11:00 am, Shred It will be at the Village Center Parking lot to shred your unnecessary paper documents. Items with paper clips and staples are acceptable, but please leave your 3-ring binders at home.

There are NO LIMITS to the amount of boxes you can bring, but note that Shred It will only be processing for two hours.

Shred It Day: Saturday, May 18th Time: 9:00 am to 11:00 am Location: Village Center Parking Lot

This event sponsored by the Northwest Heights Neighborhood Association

WHAT’S HAPPENING IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD? Come find out what’s selling in Forest Heights at our Wine & Real Estate Event!

Date:

Thursday, May 16th, 2013

Time:

Drop in anytime from 5:00 PM to 7:30 PM Refreshments served

Location:

Kaer Property Group Office Across from Starbucks at the Village Center 2029 NW Miller Rd | Portland, OR 97229

Contact:

TEAM WORK

Call (503) 699-3980 Contact us for a complimentary market analysis of your neighborhood and your home

· EXPERIENCE · PROFESSIONALISM · DILIGENCE · TRUST WWW.KAERPROPERTYGROUP.COM

Page 11

FROM THE MANAGERS DESK Have you got a question about Forest Heights?

Are you curious about things going on in our community?

Do you have questions about issues that impact Forest Heights? 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. Email your questions to contactus@fhhoa.com Questions received by the 10

th

of each month will be answered in the next month’s newsletter.

Manager’s Report for May

T

here are many neighborhood maintenance projects slated for 2013 including seal coating the Mill Pond and Skyline walking paths, refinishing our copper signage, replacing our split rail fence, and more. Our first major project for the year, however, is the replacement of the Silver Ridge Stairway.

Silver Ridge Stairway This stairway is across the street from Starbucks and is used extensively by residents traveling to and from the Silver Ridge Trail and Bartholomew Drive.

Starting May 14th, we will be removing this stairway and replacing it with a composite decking material and powder coated aluminum handrail. While the stairway will not be usable during the construction process (approximately two weeks), we believe that the finished project will be well worth the hassle.

Thank you for your patience during this time.

Mailboxes As we’ve been reporting for several months, the enforcement of mailbox maintenance has begun. Most of the mailboxes, however, are simply in need of a good cleaning. If your mailbox is showing signs of dirt and mildew accumulation it would be a tremendous help to proactively scrub down the post and box.

When evaluating the mailbox and post, we will be looking for three things: 1. Rust: If there is minor rust on your mail post, we will ask that you first clean the rust off and try to touch up the paint. If major rust is found, we will need for you to replace your post. The same applies to the mailbox.

2. Damage: If there is obvious damage to the post and mailbox, we will ask for those items to be replaced. For mailboxes specifically, we will be continued on page 13  Page 12

FROM THE MANAGERS DESK continued from page 12

looking for dents and functionality issues. For example, if the mailbox door doesn’t close or is missing, we will ask that it be entire mailbox be replaced.

3. Plumb: Many posts appear to be leaning and “out-of-plumb”.

If this is the case, we will ask owners to realign their posts.

For the initial round of assessment, we are giving owners sixty days to take care of the issues identified.

Please contact me if you have any questions or concerns.

Community Activities Committee The Forest Heights Community Activities Committee continues to generate new and exciting ideas for community engagement by planning events and activities that are financially self-sustaining.

Some of the ideas this committee has generated include bringing back the Night Market, having a Wellness Fair at Mill Pond Park, hosting a Pet Parade, establishing a series of Concerts in the Park sponsored by local businesses and more. In addition to some new event ideas, they are also looking for ways to improve the financial impact of our larger, primary events, namely Fourth of July and the International Food Festival.

If you are interested in helping making some of these events happen or have cost effective ideas for our events, please contact us or attend a committee meeting on the 1st Monday of every month at 6:00 p.m. at the Association Office. ~Jennifer Callaghan, FHHOA General Manager ~

Look familiar? Spring is a great time to determine if your mailbox is in need of repair, replacement or cleaning.

Page 13

Meet Bob Heimbucher:

forest heights volunteer of the year The broadest, and maybe the most meaningful definition of volunteering: Doing more than you have to, because you want to, in a cause you consider good. ~Ivan Scheier

D

id you know that April was National Volunteer Month?

We sure did, which is why the Forest Heights Homeowners Association honored those who serve our community at our Annual Volunteer Reception held on April 12th at the Paragon Restaurant.

As a staff member of the association, it is nothing short of gratifying to attend this event and meet all of the volunteers who serve Forest Heights. From committee members to board candidates, and invasive plant pullers to budgeting wizards, the crowd at this year’s reception was a fascinating collection of people who all have one thing in common: a steadfast dedication to improving the place they call home.

Bob Heimbucher is one such person. A true gentleman by all definitions of the word, Bob also happens to be the Forest Heights Volunteer of the Year. We hope you enjoy getting to know Bob: How long have you lived in Forest Heights?

Ninteen years. Aileen and I moved in on Halloween, 10/31/1993. We

had few trick-or-treaters that first year, but last Halloween we had 203. When we moved in, Miller Road was still gravel and mud from Bartholomew St. on up to Thompson Road.

Over the years, what committees have you served on?

I began volunteering at “tree plant” events in 1996 and 1997 and then joined the Trails Committee in 1998. Aileen and I really enjoy the trails here and they are one of the primary reasons we moved to Forest Heights. I chaired the Landscape Committee for a short while, but decided it made more sense to combine the two committees into what is now known as the Go Green, Natural Habitat, Trails and Landscape Committee.

What neighborhood projects have you worked on?

I have assisted the Community Activities Committee (stuffing all those plastic Easter Eggs!) and I’ve also worked with the Parks and Recreation Committee in assembling the two playground structures at Mill Pond Park. I’m

currently involved with the Parks and Recreation Task Force to develop options for Tract R. I persisted in asking for a park memorial for a wonderful Trails Committee Chairman, Bob Laughter. A plaque in his honor was placed on a bench at Valley View park, our new park on Miller and Thompson Roads. I continue my interest in our trails and as a Go Green committee member, I meet monthly with our Forest Heights staff and our landscape contractor, Willamette Landscape Services.

What has been the most rewarding project for you personally?

I enjoy the hands-on tree planting and invasive removal projects. Of all the projects we do at Forest Heights, these two activities help restore our natural areas, provide cover for our forest friends and, hopefully, will be around for a very long time.

Why do you volunteer?

It’s a good way of giving something back to the local community, and helps our neighborhood remain a pleasant place to live. I retired in continued on page 15 

Page 14

VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR continued from page 14

1997 and have the time to volunteer. Plus, you get to meet some really neat, dedicated people.

What would you tell others who are considering joining a committee?

By all means, do volunteer! Too few do, so we need your help. Besides, it gives you knowledge of what is going on in the community and allows you to have a voice in the process.

Name a favorite place of yours in the neighborhood.

My favorite places are the Swordfern and Deer Run trails. Both are heavily wooded with lots of ferns and undergrowth, and are away from roads and noise for much of their routes. Those trails really make you feel like you are in a national forest, yet you are just blocks from home. ~ FHHOA Staff ~

Forest Heights Book Club Meets May 28th This month’s book selection, Blackbird, has been a best selling memoir on New York Times list. To young Jenny, the house on Mary Street was home -- the place where she was loved, a blue-sky world of Barbies, Bewitched, and the Beatles. Even her mother's pain from her mysterious illness could be patted away with powder and a kiss on the cheek. But when everything that Jenny had come to rely on begins to crumble, an odyssey of loss, loneliness, and a child's will to survive takes flight.

All are welcome!

What: Forest Heights Book Club Note our new time and location!

Date: Thursday, May 28th Time: 7:00 to 8:00 pm Location: Bethany Station Starbucks

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COMPLIANCE CORNER

THE DOS AND DON’TS OF BARKDUST

W

ith spring finally upon us, many of you will be taking steps to prevent spring and summer weeds from taking over your yard and gardens by applying bark dust around your property. Before you take this step, please remember that the Forest Heights Homeowners Architectural Guidelines require homeowners use aged, dark bark dust 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, and aged bark dust of either variety is allowed as a general ground cover in Forest Heights. Although Fir costs less, Hemlock tends to have fewer splinters and is often preferred by homeowners with small children and/or pets, and by those who do their own gardening.

Company

“Fresh” bark dust, red colored bark dust and bark nuggets are not allowed as a general ground cover in landscapes. Forest Heights homeowners often ask the HOA office where to purchase aged, dark bark dust. Our recommendation is to buy from a local bark dust company, rather than purchasing bags of bark dust from a home improvement store. You can view the bark at a local distributor and confirm its color and age before ordering. All the companies listed below deliver to your home, and some will blow the bark dust on to your landscape for an additional fee. They also have information to help you determine the quantity of bark you need.

  

YES: AGED DARK HEMLOCK OR FIR

N0: “FRESH” OR RED COLORED BARK

NO: BARK CHIPS OR NUGGETS

Phone

You Haul

Delivery

Blow-In

Bark Blowers

503-248-2275





Barkdusters

503-636-1465

 

Best Buy in Town

503-645-6665

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



Cedar Mill Lumber

504-644-9101





Grimm's Fuel

503-636-3623

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Rexius

503-635-5865

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Page 16

World Environment Day Goal for Portland Audubon:

50 Backyard Habitat Certifications!

W

orld Environment Day is coming to Portland!

That’s right, the United Nations has selected Portland, Oregon as this year’s North American World Environment Day host. According to the Deputy Director of the United Nations Environment Programme [UNEP], Elisabeth Guilbaud-Cox: “Portland has been selected because we at UNEP would like to put the spotlight on the city’s environmental achievements, which are reflected in the fact that this city is repeatedly ranked among the top ten green cities in the United States. In our research, Portland is often rated the number one green city in North America, an impressive accomplishment by any standard.”

Through World Environment Day the United Nations Environment Programme aims to personalize environmental issues and enable everyone to realize their power to become agents for change in support of sustainable and equitable development. Portland is making more than just a day of it; activities will be held during

the entire window of time between Earth Day on April 22nd and World Environment Day on June 5th. Go here to learn more.

What is Audubon doing to recognize this important event? In honor of the big day, we’re aiming to certify 50 backyards between Earth Day and World Environment Day! This will be a monumental achievement and will take the help of many Backyard Habitat Certification Program participants and volunteers. So get out your shovels and gardening gloves, growl and show your teeth at those pesky invasive plants, and let’s start enhancing backyard habitats through our neighborhoods! If building a backyard habitat oasis is something you’ve been interested in doing, join the momentum and help us reach our goal by signing up today to get your yard certified! ~ Special thanks to Nikkie West, Backyard Habitat Program Coordinator ~

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MAKE YOUR HOME SMARTER WITH NEW ELECTRONICS New devices from Nest, Smarthome, Philips, and others make it possible to control your home remotely—or even let your home control itself

T

he amazing electronics that allow smartphones to do their magic—WiFi connectivity, microscopic sensors, beautiful displays—are now being used for the smart management of energy consumption within the home. New devices from Nest, Smarthome, Philips and others make it possible to control your home’s energy usage remotely—or even let your home control itself.

NEST THERMOSTAT The Nest thermostat, created by former Apple designer and iPod creator Tony Fadell, has garnered more attention than the introduction of a new Lamborghini since it launched in late 2011. But there's substance behind the hype.

Prior to the Nest, thermostats fell into two camps: dead-simple, set-it-and-forget-it models, or programmable, sophisticated types that save energy but require more effort to set up than most homeowners are willing to expend. The Nest bridges that gap by having controls as simple as the former—there's a dial and nothing more—and sophisticated sensors and artificial intelligence to give it the smarts of the latter. And for the most part, it works.

There's no programming involved. You literally just set it to the temperature you want, and let it go. Need to adjust it? The Nest will remember when you made the adjustment, and after you do it a few times, it'll do it on its own.

This results in some frustration for the first two weeks.

"Why didn't it turn up the heat this morning?" you'll wonder. Or, "why is it turning on the AC now?" But the good part is that it does eventually figure it out. And after that, Nest is a pleasure.

The Nest hardware is beautiful. I find myself wanting to touch and turn its dial even when I don’t need to, because it’s such a pleasant tactile experience. And installation was easy, even for me, someone who knows nothing about home improvement.

The Nest won't seem cheap compared to your gardenvariety thermostat. Nest 1.0 was $249 when it first came out. It’s since been replaced by a second generation model for $229 and that first generation model can now be had for $179. The difference between the two? Nest 2 is slimmer, and works with a wider variety of HVAC systems. Details here.But I'd argue it’s actually quite a deal. Here's one reason: the Nest has iOS and Android smartphone apps that allows remote control of your home heating. It's a fantastic feature that alone might justify the cost difference over a traditional thermostat. But here's a better reason: there’s evidence that Nest can pay for itself in just a few months via the energy savings it generates.

Reductions in energy bills of 20% a month are not uncommon and are in line with what I’ve experienced personally. But the thermostat isn't the only piece of home hardware that's received an upgrade recently. There are now several ways to control your lighting system as well.

SMARTHOME INSTEON If you're familiar with this space, you might remember the old X10 system promoted by Radio Shack: it sent signals through your home's electrical system that would tell specially-equipped light switches to turn on and off at the appropriate times. That system was okay, but for larger

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homes where the electrical system wasn't one continuous circuit, it broke down. A company called Smarthome has updated X10 into a new standard called INSTEON. It uses your electrical system too, but complements that with a wireless signal that switches can detect as well.

The result: a more reliable system that works in more situations.

As a bonus, the bulbs use multi-colored LEDs, so you can make them any color or brightness you want. Set them bright-white during the day; in the evening, give them a warmer, softer hue. Or turn your house into a disco. Your choice.

BELKIN WEMO Belkin's WeMo system offers more flexibility—minus the disco capability—because it's based off of WiFi-enabled controllers that plug in your standard electrical sockets.

Turn on and off lamps, or any other appliance, from your smartphone. Add WeMo motion sensors into the mix so the system can detect when you're home and turn the lights on for you. WeMo is limited compared to the INSTEON system, but still it's fun stuff, and much easier to set up.

The flexibility of a full-blown INSTEON system is incredible. It's what I use in my house, and amazing things are possible: I can turn on elaborate sequences of lights, each to an individually managed perfect dimming percentage, just by tapping a button on my iPhone. But INSTEON isn't for everyone. Though it's not required, the best way to control the system is with an always-on PC or Mac. And while the control software (called Indigo) is decent, it's reasonably complicated stuff that's more for the "enthusiast" than the typical consumer. Add in the cost and complexity of replacing your existing light switches (between $40 and $80 per switch), and you have a system that's not for the faint-hearted. But if a sophisticated system is what you want, INSTEON fits the bill nicely.

PHILLIPS HUE If you want something simpler, there are brand new WiFibased solutions. Philips has a system called the Hue that includes a smartphone app and three lightbulbs that you can place in lamps around your house. You can turn them on and off via your iPhone, and even set up schedules.

Energy savings are a great reason to automate your lighting. (My INSTEON system automatically turns our lights on based upon when the sun sets and rises so they're on for a minimum of time.) But it's still early days for lighting control systems, which vary from too-complex to toosimple. That doesn't mean they're worthless: WeMo and Hue are fun toys that may eventually grow into important standards. The Nest thermostat, however, is for-real: a consumer-ready technology that provides real benefits today. ~ Greg Maletic, FHHOA Board Member and Liason to Communications Committee ~

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BABYSITTING 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.

BABYSITTING SERVICE Hello! My name is Jarrett Gold, I am 16, and a sophomore at Lincoln High School. I am Red Cross certified and can take care of any age group of children. I can also take care of any pets or other things needed. I am very responsible and I have had past experience taking care of children and feel very confident in doing so. I was a counselor at outdoor school and took care of children for a week. I had a lot of fun and built leadership skills.

I can also help tutor children with their schooling if needed. I can babysit children during the week or weekends. With summer coming up, I am free anytime, and am willing to take any time slots. I enjoy children and I am eager to help take care of them.

You can contact me at 503-922-9900. Thank you!

BABYSITTING SERVICE My name is Kendall and am 13 years old. I live in Forest Heights and an Red Cross CPR certified. My parents will drive me to residences in the neighborhood. I can be reached at 503-780-1890/503-706-0348, and charge $5.00/hr.

Babysitter, Petsitter and/or House-sitter for Hire!

I am exactly what you're looking for! I promise! My name is Jamie Huggins and I live up here off Devoto. I have about 3 years experience with other families (including nannying for one of them for about a year) and I also have 4 younger siblings that I've helped raise over the years. I have many of my own pets including a dog and a ferret:). I am 20 years old, I drive and have my own car (a safe Jeep Cherokee). I am currently studying business administration at PCC Rock Creek, however I do have flexible hours. I am willing to watch any age (child and/or pet) I’m able to drive to and from practices/school/doctors appointments-whatever you need. I can also cook. I charge a flat rate of 12/hr (unless you have upwards of 10 babies, then my rate might go up ;D). We can negotiate for pet and house-sitting rates. I have great references that can be provided upon request! Fun and outgoing! Stern but kind. I love both kids and animals more than you can imagine!! The best way to contact me is through e-mail: jamiehuggins@hotmail.com. I usually respond within the hour.

Hope to hear from you soon!

BABYSITTER/PET SERVICES AVAILABLE Hi my name is Haley and I am a sophomore 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, a mother’s helper for a 1 year old, and a sitter for school age children. 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 currently charge $20 per full day/night sitting and grooming cost varies by size and coat length.

References are available. Email: sunrisepetcare@hotmail.com or call 503.863.6673 Responsible, Fun Babysitter Available I am an 8th grader at ACCESS Academy and I am Red Cross Certified. I have 2 years of experience and love kids of all ages. I'm also good with pets, and can help kids with their homework. I'm also able to cook meals. My rate is $5 per hour for one child, additional rates available upon request. I have excellent references available upon request.

Call 503-291-1249 or email me at katherine.m.renner@gmail.com.

Babysitter--Certified, Reliable, Fun! Hi! I'm Julia Renner, a junior at St. Mary's Academy, and I have 6 years' experience babysitting as well as working with kids at camp. I am Red Cross CPR/First Aid certified and excellent with all ages as well as families with pets, and am also able to do housework/chores. Flexible rates; outstanding references available upon request.

Call (503) 291-1249 or email juliarenner@comcast.net.

Babysitter Hunting?

Got one or more 1-6 year olds? Look no further! My name is Claire Jackson, I’m a sophomore at Lincoln High School, and I am here to tell you your kids are safe in my hands. But there’s no reason for you to trust me on the spot, so don’t be shy to call me at the phone number indicated at the bottom of the advertisement. Living in Forest Heights makes for easy access to any one of your homes, so don’t be shy to call me last minute late Saturday night, as long as you call I will do my best to make it over to your house just in time to make it to that movie you were dying to see. Yours truly, Claire Jackson (503) 803-7881 BABYSITTING Tess Pauken, babysitting, age 13, Red Cross certified, $5.00/hr., Responsible & reliable.

Contact:503-297-4007 or email: camoritz26@gmail.com EXPERIENCED NANNY Experienced nanny for many families in Forest Heights. Flexible availability. Reliable transportation and perfect driving record. Many references. Part time preferable.

Phone Jocelyn at: 503-459-9443.

CERTIFIED BABYSITTER I'm Jaclyn and I am a responsible 13 year old. I have been certified through the Red Cross Babysitting Class. I am capable of helping kids with homework as well. I am available to babysit on the weekends and Holiday Breaks. I am also very good with dogs and cats.

My rate is $5/hour. Contact me at my mom's cell 602-809-0917 or email: flood.noreen@gmail.com EXPERIENCED BABYSITTER Searching for a reliable, experienced, and fun-loving babysitter?

My name is Annika Hansteen Izora and I’m 17 years old. I’ve been babysitting for four years, and with four younger siblings; I know how to take on any handful. I’m certified in Red Cross First Aid, CPR, and AED, with experience in caring for children of all ages. Above all, I love kids and I understand what it means to keep them safe and happy. Please contact me and we can have a chance to get to know each other. Call 503-705-6481, weekends only

PET/PLANT CARE Professional Pet Sitter/Dog Walker Professional pet care when you cannot be there. Insured and bonded, pet first aid certified.

Administer meds, give shots and lots of love. When you hire me, I am the only one who does the job. I do not contract out any work. I also do overnights. Call Candis at 503-246-7559 or email me at candisc@comcast.net. For more information about me, my rates, and policies, check out my website: http://www.noplacelikehomeforpets.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 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 Experienced Pet and Plant Sitter Very responsible 13 year old girl with lots of experience. I can walk, feed and play with, clean up after and care for your pets. I have lived with cats, dogs, hamsters, fish and snails and have taken care of cats, dogs, guinea pigs, birds, fish and many other animals.

I will also water plant. I have excellent references available upon request. Call 503.291.1249 or email katherine.m.renner@gmail.com PET CARETAKER Hello, my name is Emily Wu! I'm a Junior at Lincoln High School, and am extremely fond of animals. I would love to care for your pet (or that precious hydrangea!) while you are away.

I have two dogs myself, and a lot of experiences with pets. I charge low rates, and will shower your animal with lots of loving. You can contact me at (503-490-9543) or email me at emilywui@gmail.com.

TUTORING TUTORING Tutoring, all ages, Math, English, French, SAT prep, homework help for learning challenged.

Experienced certified teacher. I travel to you. Excellent Forest Heights references. Please contact Sarah at sarahwannell@hotmail.com or 503 313 1216 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 MATH & HEBREW LESSONS Math lessons: Experienced math teacher (all levels) with Bachelors degree in math.

Hebrew lessons: Native Hebrew speaker experienced in Hebrew teaching.

Please contact Aya at: 971-227-0555

MUSIC GUITAR LESSONS Classically trained guitarist now accepting new students; can teach any style of guitar Friendly, enthusiastic and easy going Forest Heights resident.. Open to teaching theory to non-guitarists. Music reading taught to every student, any age and skill welcome. Rates available upon request. Rory Kenner (360) 510-0096 rory.kenner@gmail.com LOOKING TO LIVEN UP YOUR NEXT DINNER OR COCKTAIL PARTY? Pianist available to play background music for your next event. Genre of music can be discussed. Has had 11+ years of piano experience. References available upon request. $50/hr. Christina Seung 503.320.4296 Email: christinabean13@gmail.com PIANO AND FLUTE LESSONS Children and adult lessons available. Start a new hobby or pick up where you left off as a child. I travel to you. Well-established local business with outstanding Forest Heights' references. Contact Sarah at 503 313 1216; sarahwannell@hotmail.com.

PIANO LESSONS Concert pianist teaches your child the art and technique of the piano.

Over 10 years of teaching experience. My home or yours.

Contact Lydia: 503/292 6868 or by email:lydiabg@hotmail.com GUITAR LESSONS Hi my name is Michaela and I am 17 years old and have lived in Forest Heights most of my life. I am looking for work with pet-sitting, house sitting, babysitting, dog walking or driving children to appointments/sports. I can also assist with grocery shopping, errands, etc. I have a reliable car and good driving record. $12.00 an hour, can negotiate for house and pet sitting. For caring reliable help call me at 503 737 4845 or e-mail me at Michaelalhs@gmail.com.

FOR RENT FOREST HEIGHTS TOWNHOUSE FOR RENT. Charming townhouse in a small townhouse setting. Spacious 1600 sq. ft. with a great hall first floor including a vaulted ceiling living room, dining room, 1/2 bath, gourmet kitchen with all appliances, and a full sized laundry room set. Upstairs has two large bedrooms with connected bathrooms and a spacious loft to be used as a den or office. The connected garage includes storage space and room for two cars. There is a lovely swimming pool available for the residents, and the property is within walking distance of the Forest Heights Commercial Center, and shuttle service to light rail is available. Rate:$1,950 per month.

For more information call owners Colleen Lamont or Frank Weigel at 503-970-7406

Here’s a snapshot of FHHOA activities and meetings for the month of May. Print and keep this calendar in a handy spot so you’ll have access to what’s happening in your community.

MAY 2013 Sunday

Monday

5

Tuesday

6 Safety, Streetscape and Transportation 11:30 am

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

1 Go Green Committee 6:00 pm

2 Parks and Recreation Committee 4:30 pm

3

4

7 Annual Meeting of Homeowners 7:00 pm

8

9 Architectural Review Committee 9:00 am

10

11

Community Engagement Committee 6:00 pm 12

13

14 Board of Directors 6:00 pm

15

16 Wine & Real Estate 5:00 to 7:30pm Kaer Property Group at the Village Center

17

18 Community Shred Day 9:00 to 11:00 am Village Center Parking Lot

19

20 Budget & Finance Committee 6:00 pm

21

22

23

24

15

26

27

28

29

30

31 Spring Carnival Forest Park Elementary 5:00 to 8:00 pm