Neighborhood Connections: December 2011

City of Gresham: Neighborhood Connections, August 2011. Find Out What's Happening in and Around Your City. Public Safety information, Community Activities & Events, Training & Workshops, Volunteer Opportunities, and more.

Neighborhood Connections is a publication from the City of Gresham
Communications & Community Outreach offering City of Gresham news, Public Safety information, Community Activities & Events, Training & Workshops, Volunteer Opportunities, and more.

Inside this Issue

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Gresham Neighborhoods listing

For more information, visit the Neighborhood Associations page at GreshamOregon.gov or contact Cathy Harrington at 503-618-2482, or email Cathy.Harrington@GreshamOregon.gov.


Crime Reports
Residents can now access current property crime data on the City's website. The crime information is mapped so residents can get a visual perspective of actual crime reports submitted. This data is updated monthly and also includes crime prevention tips and trends. Read more

What’s 60 Feet Tall and All Lit Up in Gresham?
Don't forget that the City's Christmas Tree is lit through New Year's Day. Check out our video of the tree lighting, and we hope you’ll you stop by the Center for the Arts Plaza and see it. Again, thanks to all the people who attended the Spirit of Christmas and all the sponsors of this great community event. Watch the video

What will be Referred to Voters in the May Ballot?
Want to provide input on Gresham’s Charter – the constitution for the City of Gresham – on what is referred to the May ballot regarding any proposed changes? The Charter Review Committee is hosting a special open house meeting on Tuesday, January 17 at 6 p.m. in the Oregon Trail Conference Room, Gresham City Hall. Public input and attendance is welcomed and encouraged. Comments regarding the Gresham Charter can also be emailed to CAOmail@greshamoregon.gov. Read more

Negotiation and Conflict Resolution Workshops
Do you want to learn how to negotiate through a difference of opinions or learn what brain studies are teaching us about how to best work through conflict situations? East Metro Mediation will present these two workshops in the winter months, with “Negotiation for Win-Win Solutions” on February 15, and “Brain Science and Conflict Resolution” on March 7, 2012. There’s no fee for residents of Gresham and East County; others pay $15. Read more

What Code Violations Most Concern You?
In your Gresham neighborhood, what code violations concern you the most? Graffiti, overgrown vegetation or parking issues? We're encouraging Gresham residents to fill out a brief online survey to give us feedback on which of the services we provide are most important to you, and which issues are of the highest concern in your neighborhood and citywide. Take the survey

East Metro Mediation’s Basic Mediation Training in April
If you want to learn mediation to volunteer to help others resolve problem situations, or if you want to learn for your own use at home and work, fill out an application by the February 27, 2012 deadline. One prior participant said: “This class has changed how I deal with my friends. Listening and resolving conflicts make for such better friendships.” Read more

Help Volunteer to Survey Amphibians This Winter
This winter, would you like to learn more about what types of frogs and salamanders live in ponds and wetlands near you? A volunteer opportunity is available for individuals or small groups and is a great project for families. Read more

Prepare Your Water Pipes Before Freezing Temperatures Arrive
Frozen and bursting pipes can be avoided with just a few preventative measures. The Water Division offers tips on preparing your water pipes for winter weather and what to do in case of an emergency. Read more

Prepare Your Yard for Winter - Free Healthy Home and Garden Consultation
During the consultation, you’ll receive information about invasive plant control, natural gardening techniques, stormwater management tips and more. We provide free, fun things to help you get started including landscaping plants, compost bins, garden store coupons and bird houses. Read more

O’ Silent Pipe
'Twas the night before Christmas and all through the house not one pipe was clogging, the drains were de-loused.
The family was nestled all snug in their beds, while visions of clear pipes danced in their heads.
All year long I had been resilient at not pouring grease down the sink drain and filling it.
Also my eye had been glued to the toilet, not flushing wipes or prescriptions down the drain there and spoiling it.
With all my effort and careful irking I could go right to sleep knowing my pipes were working.
My neighbors and friends who had not been so smart, called plumbers whose charges were off the chart.
So take my advice and keep your pipes clear, to save money and hassle throughout the New Year.
(Compliments of Clean Water Services, Hillsboro) Read more

Free Activities at the Library
Looking for something to keep your kids busy? The library has hundreds of free events and classes for children (and adults) of all ages. Enjoy performances by local and touring musicians, explore your creativity in one of the many art classes, or attend a workshop to learn a new skill. Check out all the free programs at your library! Read more

Volunteer Today at Girl Scouts
You can make a difference in the lives of girls! We are looking for troop leaders in your area. If you have a few hours each month, we can connect you with other adults in your area to star up a new Girl Scouts troop. Email dgarbely@girlscoutsosw.org for information. Read more

Thinking Ahead: Create the Future You and Your Loved Ones Desire
Join AARP Oregon, Multnomah County Family Caregiver Support Program, YWCA East County Senior Services and Providence ElderPlace & Home and Community Services to learn about caregiving and long-term care options. This free event taking place on Saturday, January 21 will provide resources to help you and your loved ones prepare for the future you want. Read more



Gresham Neighborhoods