On June 4 we learned about the world wide impact of COVID-19 and Mercy Corps' response
Between obsession with Trump gaffes and concerns about COVID-19 within our country, our attention as a nation and party has turned inward. At our June meeting we took time to look beyond our borders.
Susan Romanski, Mercy Corps Senior Director of Humanitarian Capacity Building and Global Engagement. talked with us and answer questions about Mercy Corps' response to COVID-19 throughout the world. We learned about the challenges of delivering services when the world is shut down - and the advantage Mercy Corps has because most of its workers are from the countries they are serving. However, faced with cuts in WHO funding and foreign assistance, it needs our advocacy and support more than ever.
Susan is a longtime Mercy Corps team member with expertise in emergency response. For those not familiar with Mercy Corps, it is a Portland based global team of humanitarians that served 29 million people in 2019 in over 40 countries, our nation and our city.
As the US focuses on itself, please consider reaching out and helping this organization which empowers so many people
https://www.mercycorps.org
Susan Romanski, Mercy Corps Senior Director of Humanitarian Capacity Building and Global Engagement. talked with us and answer questions about Mercy Corps' response to COVID-19 throughout the world. We learned about the challenges of delivering services when the world is shut down - and the advantage Mercy Corps has because most of its workers are from the countries they are serving. However, faced with cuts in WHO funding and foreign assistance, it needs our advocacy and support more than ever.
Susan is a longtime Mercy Corps team member with expertise in emergency response. For those not familiar with Mercy Corps, it is a Portland based global team of humanitarians that served 29 million people in 2019 in over 40 countries, our nation and our city.
As the US focuses on itself, please consider reaching out and helping this organization which empowers so many people
https://www.mercycorps.org
Social Distance/ Community Togetherness
Our April 2 meeting was online
Our first online meeting was a success - for those who could log in. A few had audio problems or trouble connecting. We will try to update both instructions and ways to connect to let everyone get involved in the future.
However, it was good to join together, to check our how we were doing and to talk about what is coming in the future. We heard from Ben Marcotte and Steven Burke about what it is like to run a campaign in this climate. Valerie Pratt updated us on what Tualatin is doing to respond to the crisis.
We hope to have other meetings like this in the future, with a chance to meet candidates and get updates on both community news and elections. i will also be posting how to access online forums on this website as I learn of them, so check back here for more information. Feel free to email me at EWCDems@gmail.com if you want anything added.
However, it was good to join together, to check our how we were doing and to talk about what is coming in the future. We heard from Ben Marcotte and Steven Burke about what it is like to run a campaign in this climate. Valerie Pratt updated us on what Tualatin is doing to respond to the crisis.
We hope to have other meetings like this in the future, with a chance to meet candidates and get updates on both community news and elections. i will also be posting how to access online forums on this website as I learn of them, so check back here for more information. Feel free to email me at EWCDems@gmail.com if you want anything added.
Our March 202o meeting
Thank you to Dana Haynes, managing editor for Pamplin Media, for an informative and entertaining talk on everything from the shutdown of the Legislator to running a regional newspaper to being a novelist. We also had a chance to meet candidates Gerritt Rosenthal, Metro district 2; Ben Marcotte, county commissioner District 3; Edward Kroll, judge candidate and hear from the campaigns of Jamie McLeod-Skinner and Ben Bowman. Finally Rep Doherty read the moving statement House Speaker Tina Kotek gave on gaveling this chaotic Legislative session to a close after the failure of most Republicans to appear.
What we may lose with Republican walkout
OFFICE OF THE HOUSE SPEAKER OFFICE OF THE SENATE PRESIDENT
900 Court St., N.E. Salem OR 97301
NEWS RELEASE
Marcy 4, 2020
State Budgets and Critical Policies Put at Risk by Republican Government Shutdown
SALEM, Ore. – Legislators continue to work in the Capitol despite House and Senate Republicans walking off the job to shut down the government.
The Joint Committee on Ways and Means has advanced a series of budget bills that will fund critical needs across the State. These bills will address the state’s housing and homelessness crisis, fragmented behavioral health system, looming wildfire season, and other targeted investments. These investments will only be able to move forward this session if Republicans return to the Capitol and agree to finish all of the work that has been blocked by their repeated walkouts.
“These budgets are remarkable pieces of legislation. They benefit every corner of Oregon – every Oregonian,” Senate President Peter Courtney said. “The fact that a few members are preventing us from carrying out our oaths of office, preventing us from voting on bills and budgets, is heartbreaking. We have stayed in the Capitol. We have worked. We have done literally all we can do without a quorum. It’s time for my fellow legislators to return to work and uphold their oaths.”
The budget bills join a long list of critical policy bills that have been worked through the legislative process, including public hearings, written testimony, amendment debates and committee approval.
“We come to work in the Legislature each day because the work we do matters to the lives of Oregonians,” House Speaker Tina Kotek said. “All of the policy bills and budget items that have
earned support through the legislative process deserve floor votes this session. I continue to talk to the House Republican Leader every day and still hope that they will return to the Capitol and agree to finish all of this important work for the people of Oregon.”
The final budget bills, as well as policy bills with appropriations, have all now moved out of the joint budget committee. These are the highlights of investments that are in danger because of the Republican shutdown:
Housing and Homelessness
More than 10,000 Oregonians statewide are currently sleeping on the streets without access to shelter. To address Oregon’s housing and homelessness crises, the following funds have been proposed:
Disaster Relief and Emergency Preparedness
Northeast Oregon recently suffered through devastating flooding and Oregon needs to continue long-term preparation for an earthquake that scientists predict will eventually occur.
900 Court St., N.E. Salem OR 97301
NEWS RELEASE
Marcy 4, 2020
State Budgets and Critical Policies Put at Risk by Republican Government Shutdown
SALEM, Ore. – Legislators continue to work in the Capitol despite House and Senate Republicans walking off the job to shut down the government.
The Joint Committee on Ways and Means has advanced a series of budget bills that will fund critical needs across the State. These bills will address the state’s housing and homelessness crisis, fragmented behavioral health system, looming wildfire season, and other targeted investments. These investments will only be able to move forward this session if Republicans return to the Capitol and agree to finish all of the work that has been blocked by their repeated walkouts.
“These budgets are remarkable pieces of legislation. They benefit every corner of Oregon – every Oregonian,” Senate President Peter Courtney said. “The fact that a few members are preventing us from carrying out our oaths of office, preventing us from voting on bills and budgets, is heartbreaking. We have stayed in the Capitol. We have worked. We have done literally all we can do without a quorum. It’s time for my fellow legislators to return to work and uphold their oaths.”
The budget bills join a long list of critical policy bills that have been worked through the legislative process, including public hearings, written testimony, amendment debates and committee approval.
“We come to work in the Legislature each day because the work we do matters to the lives of Oregonians,” House Speaker Tina Kotek said. “All of the policy bills and budget items that have
earned support through the legislative process deserve floor votes this session. I continue to talk to the House Republican Leader every day and still hope that they will return to the Capitol and agree to finish all of this important work for the people of Oregon.”
The final budget bills, as well as policy bills with appropriations, have all now moved out of the joint budget committee. These are the highlights of investments that are in danger because of the Republican shutdown:
Housing and Homelessness
More than 10,000 Oregonians statewide are currently sleeping on the streets without access to shelter. To address Oregon’s housing and homelessness crises, the following funds have been proposed:
- $50 million in bonding for the Local Innovation and Fast Track (LIFT) affordable housing construction program (HB 5202)
- $45 million to increase shelter capacity, including $16.5 million for navigation centers in Bend, Eugene, McMinnville, Medford and Salem (HB 4001)
- $10 million for affordable housing preservation (HB 5204)
- $6 million for the Affordable Housing Land Acquisition Revolving Loan Program (HB
5204) - $5 million to help increase home ownership in communities of color (HB 4003)
- $2.5 million to strengthen the service system for unaccompanied homeless youth (HB
4039) - $960,000 for a pilot program on accessory dwelling units on properties owned by low-
income homeowners (HB 4015) - $300,000 to strengthen fair housing civil rights enforcement at Bureau of Labor and
Industries (BOLI) (HB 5204) - $250,000 to study and recommend a long-term rental voucher program (HB 4002)
Wildfire and Forest Management
Wildfire seasons are longer than ever due to the impacts of climate change, jeopardizing public health, safety and local economies in every corner of Oregon. This funding would help prepare for the upcoming wildfire season and invest in efforts to lessen the statewide impacts of wildfires.
- $51 million total to the Department of Forestry to stabilize operations and prepare for the upcoming wildfire season (HB 5204)
- $25 million for wildfire mitigation efforts (SB 1536)
- $1 million to improve pesticide application protocols and provide facilitation to
modernize forest practices (HB 4168) - $1 million for a Hood River County wildfire preparedness pilot (HB 5204)
- $250,000 to study the costs of wildfire protection and suppression (HB 4166)
Disaster Relief and Emergency Preparedness
Northeast Oregon recently suffered through devastating flooding and Oregon needs to continue long-term preparation for an earthquake that scientists predict will eventually occur.
- $12 million flood relief package for the Umatilla Basin (HB 5204)
- $7.5 million for the ShakeAlert earthquake notification system (HB 5204)
- $2.0 million safety evaluation of dams (HB 5204)
- $280,000 for the City of Spray emergency building expansion
- $175,000 for the Port of Hood River aviation tech and emergency response center
Behavioral Health Services and Family Support Programs
Funding is needed for critical services to help people with severe mental illness, children who enter foster care, Oregonians suffering from the disease of drug or alcohol addiction, and people experiencing homelessness.
- $75 million reserved in the Emergency Board for caseload costs or budget challenges at the Oregon Health Authority and Department of Human Services
- $15 million in support for Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics (CCBHCs)
- $13.4 million aid and assist package
- $12 million Klamath County Crimson Rose Center for young women
- $10 million for the Strengthening, Preserving, and Reunifying Families (SPRF) program,
which helps keep children safely in their homes and reduces the lengths of stay in foster
care. - $9 million for community mental health programs
- $3 million for Family Treatment Courts in Clackamas and Douglas counties
- $600,000 to analyze the supply and demand for behavioral health professionals (HB
4031) - $600,000 for the Family Preservation Project
- $319,000 for a report on the barriers that limit access to treatment of individuals with co-
occurring mental health and substance use disorders (SB 1553) - $200,000 for the Alcohol and Drug Policy Commission to develop an intervention
strategy to address substance use among school-aged children and youth (HB 4149)
Economic Development and Local Infrastructure Support
Oregon is poised to invest in key local infrastructure improvements and projects that will create jobs and build stronger communities across the state.
- $10 million to the City of Salem drinking water improvements
- $7.5 million to the City of Woodburn community center
- $7 million for Willamette Falls Locks
- $6 million for tide gate and culvert repair and replacement
- $5 million for the Oregon21 international track championships
- $4 million to the City of Eugene downtown riverfront park
- $3.5 million for the Lake County rail line upgrade
- $3 million for the Lyons-Mehama Water District system improvements
- $2 million for the Rogue Valley Children’s Museum
- $2 million for the Curry Health District, Brookings emergency department
- $2 million for the City of Sherwood pedestrian bridge project
- $1 million for the Tigard Highway 99 corridor plan
Public Safety and Judicial System Enhancements
These budget bills will improve our state’s public defense system, invest in community corrections and make other targeted investments to create a fairer criminal justice system and keep our neighborhoods safer.
- $25 million to counties for increased support for community corrections
- $20 million for public defense system improvements
- $3 million to children abuse intervention centers
- $956,000 for new circuit court judges in Deschutes and Douglas counties
- $200,000 for the Marion and Polk counties courtcare programs
University Construction Projects
Universities across the state need funding for critical repairs to aging facilities that will improve safety and reduce long-term operational costs.
- $60 million to Portland State University, Science Building 1
- $56 million to University of Oregon, Huestis Hall
- $35 million to Oregon State University, Arts and Education Complex
- $21 million to Western Oregon University, Student Success Center
- $19 million to Oregon Institute of Technology, Boivin Hall
- $13 million to OSU-Cascades, Student Success Center
###
February 2020: Politicians are People too...
With a crowded election season coming up, how do you choose your candidate? In our meeting on February 6 we began our Politicians as People series. Over the next few months we will be asking candidates to talk about an area of expertise or passion in their lives. Our first speaker was Dacia Grayber who is running for the seat Margaret Doherty is retiring from in HD35.
Too often, the division and ugliness of political discourse is heightened because we know little about those who represent us and opinions may be based on opponents’ advertising. At East Washington County Democrats we have the grand privilege of meeting those who ask to represent us face to face and, in thoughtful conversation, forge relationships that can guide our ultimate decisions.
Dacia told us about her service to our houseless neighbors. As a firefighter, she saw the houseless population hurting and without any access to medical care. She founded the Compassionate Care Center at our local Tigard shelter. Her story of the impact of providing something as basic as foot care and how it transforms lives is powerful.
Too often, the division and ugliness of political discourse is heightened because we know little about those who represent us and opinions may be based on opponents’ advertising. At East Washington County Democrats we have the grand privilege of meeting those who ask to represent us face to face and, in thoughtful conversation, forge relationships that can guide our ultimate decisions.
Dacia told us about her service to our houseless neighbors. As a firefighter, she saw the houseless population hurting and without any access to medical care. She founded the Compassionate Care Center at our local Tigard shelter. Her story of the impact of providing something as basic as foot care and how it transforms lives is powerful.
November 2019: Serving the Cities - an inside look
Our November meeting looked at the role of city councils in our daily life. Thank you to Bridget Brooks, Heidi Lueb, Liz Newton, Maria Reyes, and Valerie Pratt for a thoughtful, passionate, fun look into what it is like to serve as a first term city council member. Tigard and Tualatin are so lucky to have these people serving us.
Some of the topics we talked about were the challenge of affordable housing in the context of broader social pressures on people in our community, the need to integrate all members of our community into the life of our towns, and the role city councils play in addressing the environmental crisis.
The council members urged all of us to become more involved on the local level, to attend meetings, join committees, and communicate with them about what we care about.
October 2019 - Combatting Hate, Racism, and Indifference in our Schools
With the spotlight on white nationalism in Portland, we need to look to our schools to foster a climate of safety and acceptance. But, even here, we see instances of racism and hate speech. The rise of social media has increased this threat. Our schools are working to proactively create a climate where every student feels welcome and where all know that hate and intimidation have no place in our community.
This program sponsored by the East Washington County Democrats explored what is happening in our schools and responses that are working. Jessica Acee of the Western States Center who was involved in creating the toolkit “Confronting White Nationalism in Schools” and Rob Parness, Equity Coordinator forTigard High School gave us insight into this difficult challenge in our schools and nation. We heard how our local schools are actively working to address this issue as well as nationwide concerns in these difficult times. As concerned citizens, all of us can make a difference in fostering a safe community for everyone.
This program sponsored by the East Washington County Democrats explored what is happening in our schools and responses that are working. Jessica Acee of the Western States Center who was involved in creating the toolkit “Confronting White Nationalism in Schools” and Rob Parness, Equity Coordinator forTigard High School gave us insight into this difficult challenge in our schools and nation. We heard how our local schools are actively working to address this issue as well as nationwide concerns in these difficult times. As concerned citizens, all of us can make a difference in fostering a safe community for everyone.
Bridging the Divide September 5, 2019
The speaker was Debilyn Molineaux, the Co-Founder and Executive Director of Bridge Alliance. She provided the following:
DOCUMENTS:
How to have a conversation with…
Conversation Guide: Guns and Responsibility
Quick Start Playbook on Engaging Conservatives
A Listen First Conversation
Engagement Streams, A Matrix of Proven Practices
LINKS:
Living Room Conversations offers online conversations and host trainings on a regular basis: https://www.livingroomconversations.org/events/
Living Room Conversations: If you are ready to host, over 100 topics are ready for conversations: https://www.livingroomconversations.org/topics/
National Conversation Project: To find and join conversations locally or online: https://www.nationalconversationproject.org/how_to_get_involved
Better Angels offers facilitator trainings: https://www.better-angels.org/what-we-do/#skills-training
Red/Blue Dictionary: https://www.allsides.com/dictionary
Ben Franklin Circles: https://benfranklincircles.org/join-a-circle
Youth Activists Speak Out May 2, 2019 meeting
Young people are speaking out and organizing. From climate change to gun safety, from education to running campaigns, they are telling our state and nation that their future is at stake and they expect to be heard. They bring new energy and ideas to policy development and political change. They are making a difference.
In May, we heard from a group of students from our community who are working on Ben Bowman's campaign for the TTSD school board. Their thoughtful, honest comments gave all of us hope for the future. Among other topics, they talked about the need for more civics education, the 16 year old vote - pro and con, racism and equity issues in our schools, and the need to listen more to students as we shape the future of our schools.
Thank to all of the students who joined us at this important meeting.
Memories of Art Carter - our website editor and executive board member
We were very sorry to hear of Art Carter's death. Art has been involved from almost the beginning in helping East WashCo Dems communicate with its members. Many of you joined and stayed involved because of his emails he sent out each month about the upcoming meeting. Art also started and maintained the website until recently.
A kind and soft spoken man, Art was accomplished in many things. I will include the autobiography he published on our website:
Originally from New York, I moved to Olympia, WA. where I attended St. Martin's College and joined the Young Democrats and campaigned for Gene McCarthy. Did a short stint of active duty in the Army Reserve and came back and finished my degree in Communications at The Evergreen State College.
Was hired by the Lacey Fire Dept. as a paramedic where I worked for 22 years. Went back to Evergreen part time while working(24/48 shifts) and received a 2nd degree in Computer Science.
We moved to King City in March of 2014.
Our thoughts go out to his family - he will be sorely missed.
A kind and soft spoken man, Art was accomplished in many things. I will include the autobiography he published on our website:
Originally from New York, I moved to Olympia, WA. where I attended St. Martin's College and joined the Young Democrats and campaigned for Gene McCarthy. Did a short stint of active duty in the Army Reserve and came back and finished my degree in Communications at The Evergreen State College.
Was hired by the Lacey Fire Dept. as a paramedic where I worked for 22 years. Went back to Evergreen part time while working(24/48 shifts) and received a 2nd degree in Computer Science.
We moved to King City in March of 2014.
Our thoughts go out to his family - he will be sorely missed.
February, 2019 climate change meeting
Thank you to Brian Ettling, Park Ranger and climate activist, for a great presentation on how climate change affects everyone. We learned how he reaches out to rural Oregon to talk about these issues. He also talked how the new legislation will create thousands of jobs, especially for vulnerable communities and how the Citizens' Climate Lobby is working throughout the nation.
With upcoming clean jobs climate legislation we all have a chance to urge or support our legislators to make Oregon a leader in this effort. We also need to talk to our rural friends and urge them to ask their electeds to support this.
With upcoming clean jobs climate legislation we all have a chance to urge or support our legislators to make Oregon a leader in this effort. We also need to talk to our rural friends and urge them to ask their electeds to support this.
Housing panel discusses future directions at
December meeting
Our December 6 meeting featured a powerful discussion on the problems of and possible solutions to the affordable housing crisis in Washington County. Mayors-elect of Tualatin and Tigard, Frank Bubenik and Jason Snider; Doug Plambeck, treasurer for Community Partners for Affordable Housing (CPAH); Katherine Galian, Community Action director of Family and Community Resources; and Melisa Dailey, Washington County Housing Authority program coordinator brought us a wide ranging picture of how we need creativity and cooperation to approach this serious issue.
At this time, Washington County is 14,000 to 24,000 housing units short. While all are working to build units, this was characterized as putting a bandaid on a bleeding artery. Population continues to increase and federal dollars for affordable housing in the form of things such as block grants and housing vouchers have continued to drop.
The current bond measure that we just passed will go primarily to house those most in need. A major focus will be on those whose income falls under 30% of Area Median Income (AMI). These individuals and families, who are now homeless or living in transient housing most of the time, will need additional supports such as wrap around services that address everything from how to meet basic needs to mental health and addiction services. A second component will address the housing needs of those from 30-60% AMI. This includes many seniors, those on a fixed income, the working poor and those transitioning from homelessness. Finally, bond funding will create housing for those from 60-80% AMI. This includes many two income families who work low paying jobs. Much of the housing will have from two to five bedrooms to accommodate families in need.
But the bond is just a drop in the bucket. Other ideas and actions that were talked about include:
- Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) - Tigard recently approved a code change to allow ADUs (self contained unit on the same property as a primary dwelling unit). We had some discussion of the danger of these being used for Air BnB rather than for permanent housing and the city is planning to monitor this to see if further regulation is needed.
- Building bigger developments - CPAH has to work with up to 16 funding sources to build one project. This is the same whether this is an 8 unit or a 100 unit development. But finding land for larger developments is difficult and expensive.
- Developers want to develop expensive housing - Homes in the new housing development in Tualatin are now selling for $500-$700,000. We need to find a way to incentivize more affordable housing. We could provide discounts to System Development Charges (SDCs) in exchange for building affordable housing.
- Need to plan for the future. Many of the panel commented that this was a problem we should have been addressing 30 years ago. We need to now begin land banking, realizing that the need is going to continue to grow. One suggestion was that we require developers to set aside some of the land the acquire in a land bank.
- Code reform - especially as we begin to develop housing around the Southwest Transit Corridor, making regulations less demanding will attract a broader range of developers to build affordable housing.
- Smaller homes - the trend to build mega-mansions doesn’t reflect the needs of much of the population.
- Thoughtful use of urban growth boundary - to allow for development where needed.
- Cooperation and communication between all of the entities involved - especially the cities within our area.
The audience brought forth further questions and the discussion continued after close of the program. Thank you to the participants and to all who joined us.
It was a great Crawfish Festival
Thanks to Dena Vogel, Christina Rainer, Laurie Volm, Joelle and Chris Davis, Linus and Corliss Carleton, Doug Plambeck and Gerritt Rosenthal for helping make the Tualatin Crawfish Festival Dems booth a success. And special thanks to all our electeds and candidates who turned out: Rachel Prusak, Rob Wagner, Margaret Doherty, Kathryn Harrington, Sarah Grider, Courtney Neron, Joelle Davis, and Frank Bubenik. We had the privilege of helping several voters update their voter registration from NAV or Republican to Democratic, recruited neighborhood leaders for four counties and talked to many voters about why this election is so important. Many future voters gleefully spun the wheel and won candy and stickers.
2nd Annual 4th of July Walk & Roll Parade and Festival
at the King City Community Park
We had a great response to our booth at the King City 4th of July celebration.
Thanks to Sarah Grider and Rachel Prusak, our wonderful candidates for joining us to meet and engage voters. Janet Ference, Carol Greenough, Diane Doctor, and Bridget Brooks all pitched in to make this happen. Welcome to all the new people who learned about East Washington County Dems at the booth. We look forward to having you join us at our meetings.
at the King City Community Park
We had a great response to our booth at the King City 4th of July celebration.
Thanks to Sarah Grider and Rachel Prusak, our wonderful candidates for joining us to meet and engage voters. Janet Ference, Carol Greenough, Diane Doctor, and Bridget Brooks all pitched in to make this happen. Welcome to all the new people who learned about East Washington County Dems at the booth. We look forward to having you join us at our meetings.
In June, our current and future legislators led an inspiring discussion of K-12 education in Oregon
Some of the things we learned: Margaret Doherty pointed out that we have to go beyond the statistics in assessing our schools. Oregon requires more credits to graduate that some other states that look better on paper. We may have fewer school days - but we calculate hours, not days. This allows rural districts to have longer school days and only go four days a week. Schools are increasingly asked to do more with no funding to support these programs. This is wrong.
Yes, we do need to boost our graduation rate - but our schools are doing many things well.
The place where there is a crisis point is that schools are serving students with so many needs. They are hungry, without a stable home, living with families experiencing a variety of traumatic events. These social ills carry over to the schools and we don’t have enough trained personnel to help students cope with trauma.
Ryan Spiker pointed out that corporations used to pay much more in taxes. He remembers when he went to school the basic necessities needed in a classroom and the extracurricular programs were available without cost to the students. He also raised concerns that Oregon has one of the top suicide rates for students in the country and we need to look at how we address the causes of this.
Rachel Prusak said that these concerns show that we need to focus on wrap-around services in schools including nurses in every school. Children need health care and mental health services in their schools. That requires building a fair tax base.
Rob Wagner followed up with pointing out that we are faced with a false narrative that schools are failing. This is used to push charter schools. That is not to say that we don’t need to improve, we need to find ways to get additional resources into the schools to provide trauma informed care. It is so important to elect new candidates like Rachel Prusak. Ryan Spiker, and Paul Diller as well as retaining current Democratic legislators because it truly matters to get a super majority to enact fair taxes so that people like Margaret and her committee, who know what policies can make a difference, can enact those.
Paul Diller’s two boys attend the local school and he is aware of how important this is to build community. He has talked to educators and sees revenue stabilization through property tax reform, reforming the kicker, and broadening corporate tax will be important to solve some of the problems in our schools. Common sense gun legislation is important for families to be comfortable having their children in the school environment. Schools need to be open to the community, not to be fortresses. Safe routes to school is also a crucial issue.
In sum, some of the most important themes of this powerful discussion were:
Yes, we do need to boost our graduation rate - but our schools are doing many things well.
The place where there is a crisis point is that schools are serving students with so many needs. They are hungry, without a stable home, living with families experiencing a variety of traumatic events. These social ills carry over to the schools and we don’t have enough trained personnel to help students cope with trauma.
Ryan Spiker pointed out that corporations used to pay much more in taxes. He remembers when he went to school the basic necessities needed in a classroom and the extracurricular programs were available without cost to the students. He also raised concerns that Oregon has one of the top suicide rates for students in the country and we need to look at how we address the causes of this.
Rachel Prusak said that these concerns show that we need to focus on wrap-around services in schools including nurses in every school. Children need health care and mental health services in their schools. That requires building a fair tax base.
Rob Wagner followed up with pointing out that we are faced with a false narrative that schools are failing. This is used to push charter schools. That is not to say that we don’t need to improve, we need to find ways to get additional resources into the schools to provide trauma informed care. It is so important to elect new candidates like Rachel Prusak. Ryan Spiker, and Paul Diller as well as retaining current Democratic legislators because it truly matters to get a super majority to enact fair taxes so that people like Margaret and her committee, who know what policies can make a difference, can enact those.
Paul Diller’s two boys attend the local school and he is aware of how important this is to build community. He has talked to educators and sees revenue stabilization through property tax reform, reforming the kicker, and broadening corporate tax will be important to solve some of the problems in our schools. Common sense gun legislation is important for families to be comfortable having their children in the school environment. Schools need to be open to the community, not to be fortresses. Safe routes to school is also a crucial issue.
In sum, some of the most important themes of this powerful discussion were:
- While schools face unprecedented challenges, they are also having much success. There is a move by the right to talk about how awful our schools are. That is not true. Oregon schools provide a good education to most students in an environment that demands more and more of educators. Our graduation rates are improving. There are many gaps, like those faced by other schools around the nation. We talked about these in the rest of the discussion.
- Support of public schools is paramount. Both some politicians and some corporations are pushing charter schools. However, this would undermine the role the schools play in providing excellent education for every student. Schools also play a central role in uniting our communities. They provide a common ground for all citizens.
- The place where there is a crisis point is that schools are serving students with so many needs. They are hungry, without a stable home, living with families experiencing a variety of traumatic events. These problems carry over to the schools and we don’t have enough trained personnel to address these issues. We need nurses, social workers, counselors and educators trained in how to respond to the trauma our students are experiencing.
- It is important not to blame or marginalize the students who struggle within our schools. Their struggles are a reflection of broader social problems. Also, working to support and integrate all students into the classroom leads to greater social and emotional learning opportunities for all students.
- A lot of this comes down to funding. The tax structure in Oregon deprives schools of the financial support they need to improve. Corporations pay a decreasing share of the cost of running the state. We need to work hard to elect and re-elect our senators and representative in Oregon so that we have a supermajority to address our current unfair and unsustainable tax structure.
At May meeting, High School Leaders discussed
gun safety actions
Moms Demand Action briefed us on state of gun legislation
Local members of Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense in America and student activists from Tigard High School came together at our meeting on May 3 to discuss the next steps in gun violence prevention.
Moms Demand Action works to stem the epidemic of gun violence in America. Founded in 2012 after the Sandy Hook Elementary School tragedy, this nonpartisan network of grassroots activists has grown into a powerful nationwide organization, and they have effected change at the local, state, and national level.
Gun violence prevention laws in Oregon are stricter than many other states. Yet Oregon earns only an average grade of ‘C’ on the Giffords Law Center scorecard, which rates us 14th out of 50 on the strength of our gun laws. Our state has recently made national news, when new legislation was passed that strengthened the ban on ownership of firearms or ammunition by people convicted of stalking or domestic violence and those under restraining orders.
Still more can be done in Oregon to stem gun violence. The gun death rate in Oregon is no better than the national average. And a great deal more can be done on the federal level. Every day, 318 people in America are shot, and 96 people die from gun violence of one form or another. In light of recent mass shootings at a school, a workplace, a church, and an entertainment event, current polling shows that a majority of Americans support stricter gun laws.
At this meeting, Cheri Partain of Moms Demand Action presented the next steps in their work on legislation and public awareness, and offered ways to become involved in this movement. Student activists Baylee Bergquist, Meghan Turley, Jessica Woolfolk, and Olivia Young from Tigard High School shared their goals, concerns, and experiences in advocating for gun violence prevention.
A lively discussion and question period followed the presentations.
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Moms Demand Action works to stem the epidemic of gun violence in America. Founded in 2012 after the Sandy Hook Elementary School tragedy, this nonpartisan network of grassroots activists has grown into a powerful nationwide organization, and they have effected change at the local, state, and national level.
Gun violence prevention laws in Oregon are stricter than many other states. Yet Oregon earns only an average grade of ‘C’ on the Giffords Law Center scorecard, which rates us 14th out of 50 on the strength of our gun laws. Our state has recently made national news, when new legislation was passed that strengthened the ban on ownership of firearms or ammunition by people convicted of stalking or domestic violence and those under restraining orders.
Still more can be done in Oregon to stem gun violence. The gun death rate in Oregon is no better than the national average. And a great deal more can be done on the federal level. Every day, 318 people in America are shot, and 96 people die from gun violence of one form or another. In light of recent mass shootings at a school, a workplace, a church, and an entertainment event, current polling shows that a majority of Americans support stricter gun laws.
At this meeting, Cheri Partain of Moms Demand Action presented the next steps in their work on legislation and public awareness, and offered ways to become involved in this movement. Student activists Baylee Bergquist, Meghan Turley, Jessica Woolfolk, and Olivia Young from Tigard High School shared their goals, concerns, and experiences in advocating for gun violence prevention.
A lively discussion and question period followed the presentations.
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HD37 Neighborhood Leader and PCP Brunch
On April 21st, we shared good food, good company and a chance to hear from and be inspired by our candidates and electeds: Rachel Prusak, Rob Wagner, Joelle Davis, and Frank Bubenik. Neighborhood leaders picked up their slate cards and will head out to be sure their neighbors have information and vote. Thanks to Bridget Brooks for hosting a great brunch and to Doug Plambeck for cutting all of the turf!
To all those who were there, thanks for your involvement. To all others, it isn't too late to get involved in the neighborhood leader program for the primary. A couple of hours can make a big difference.
Look out Tualatin and HD37, a Blue Wave is on the way.
To all those who were there, thanks for your involvement. To all others, it isn't too late to get involved in the neighborhood leader program for the primary. A couple of hours can make a big difference.
Look out Tualatin and HD37, a Blue Wave is on the way.
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East Washington County Dems April Meeting -
Meet the Candidates
At this meeting, we had a chance to meet candidates running for office in the May 15 primary election or the November general election, hear their stands, and ask questions. It was a good opportunity to meet these candidates in person to us choose who we think will be best for the job.
We thank these candidates for joining us:
Attorney Steve Burke is running against incumbent D. Charles Bailey for Judge in Washington County Circuit Court, 20th District, Position 6.
Rachel Prusak, a Nurse Practitioner and healthcare advocate, is running for Oregon House District 37, against incumbent Representative Julie Parrish.
Ryan Spiker is a military veteran and healthcare administrator, and he is challenging Representative Richard Vial in Oregon House District 26.
Paul Diller is a law professor at Willamette University, vying for a seat in the Oregon State Senate from District 13, opposing incumbent Senator Kim Thatcher.
Sarah Grider, a military veteran and educator, is also running in the Democratic primary for Oregon State Senate District 13.
Kevin Barton currently serves as Chief Deputy District Attorney, and he is seeking to replace retiring DA Bob Hermann.
Max Wall is an attorney and former Deputy District Attorney for Polk County, and he is also running for Washington County District Attorney.
We urge everyone to learn about these and other candidates and find ways to support them, through your time, donations, and vote.
Our Canvass for Kathryn Harrington in King City
Good company, good food and a sunny day made it a perfect canvass in King City on March 31. Neighbors were genuinely interested in learning about the county commission chair race - few people know who their commissioner or the chair even was. Several people had met Katherine and all of those said they were going to vote for her.
Kathryn Harrington is the only candidate for Washington County Chair endorsed by the Washington County Democrats, the Beaverton Education Association, the Willamette Women Democrats, and many more. She is running a grassroots-powered campaign, and is going to win by having one-on-one conservations with voters in all of Washington County. But she can't do it without your help -- reach out to her campaign and help. She is canvassing every weekend.
Questions? Call Sydney at 503-380-0639, e-mail sydney@kathrynforourcounty.com. or call Carol Greenough at 503-975-7808, gotv@aol.com.
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Get Trained, Reach Out, Elect Democrats
(and eat cookies)
We can learn from what has happened in Pennsylvania and other places. Working to get out the vote is the way to win.
We had a great turnout on Thursday March 29th at the the Tualatin Community Library. Carl Fisher gave an overview of how to be a Neighborhood Leader and all of the important elections we have coming up.
And, we need your help. Reaching out to our neighbors increases turnout significantly. In the recent election for ballot measure 101, the voter turnout in our district was 36%. In neighborhoods where we knocked on doors, delivered literature and talked to some people face to face Democratic turnout was 61%. Among people we talked to face to face, it was 71% (a 35 point increase).
Everyone can help in some way. If you are not sure what you can do, let us know, we will find a job for you. If you are already a neighborhood leader, confirm that you are ready to go again. If you re just curious, call and we can meet and talk about ways to get in and learn. We welcome you to join us.
For More information, Call Carol Greenough 503-975-7808 or email at gotv@aol.com.
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Canvassing for Rachel Prusak in Tualatin
On March 10, a large group of supporters gathered at the Oregon Nurses Association in Tualatin to reach out to neighbors and urge them to vote for Rachel to represent House District 37 in the Oregon House. Enthusiasm of people we talked to was high. People knew of Julie's choice to oppose funding for health care for hundreds of thousands or Oregonians. They were excited to learn that a nurse who works with people in our area in their homes would be speaking for us on health care and other progressive legislation.
This will be an expensive race. Even though Rachel Prusak is unopposed in the Democratic Primary, be sure to cast a vote for her. A strong show of support for her at this time will help her get the support she needs for the general election in November.