A recent sweep through Coos County nabbed seven registered sex offenders who, for whatever their reasons, decided not to comply with the parameters of their release. The septet are now cited for failure to register. At this point GoodNewsPDX has not been able to identify whether or not these rule-breakers are now looking at additional hard time.
November 14, 2008
Sex offenders get swept up
November 10, 2008
Taking root
Here’s a great story from Tribune writer Nick Budnick about a local effort to turn vacant scraps of land into garden plots. We here a GoodNewsPDX are huge Budnick fans by the way (great local journalist).
Pearl Taster Tour
You will have to pardon the staff here at GoodNewsPDX, we’re all drooling a bit over the upcoming Pearl Taster Tour set for November 16th. This walking tour that benefits Mejor Communities will hit some of the tastiest spots in Portland including Palomino, Blitz, Andina (their chicken skewers are to DIE FOR), Cup Cake Jones and Urban Grind.
Mejor Communities is a Portland based nonprofit working to provide resources and improvements to rural communities in Peru. You can get the full back story here. In the mean time, take our advice and sign up for this incredible walking tour guaranteed to delight your taste buds.
SMART expands DESPITE budget cuts
How many organizations can say this: Our operating budget was cut by nearly seven figures, but we have managed to serve 5% MORE people this year?
That’s why we are giving a fully capitalized KUDOS to the people over at SMART. A nonprofit group that helps school children improve their reading and language skills, SMART had their budget slashed by a million bucks last year and had to shift countless part-time coordinators to “volunteer” status. However, somehow, this amazing group has expanded to 237 total schools this year (adding another 11) and will serve 2,800 kids.
Members of the GoodNewsPDX team have worked with SMART and can attest to the amazing feeling that you get when you help these young minds explore the written word. They’re always looking for more volunteers. You can click here for more info.
November 7, 2008
Beaverton Cops Get International Thumbs Up
Beaverton cops are getting international recognition for their efforts. Chief David Bishop will accept the 2008 Excellence in Victim Services Award at the International Association of Chiefs of Police next week. It’s an honor handed out to agencies that come up with innovative services for crime victims.
The department participated in a pilot program this year focused on designing a new strategy to help crime victims in the 21st century (one of three nationwide).
Facelift in Vancouver
The intersection of South Grand and Columbia House is getting a much needed face lift next week. Crews will be installing new traffic lights, ADA ramps, sidewalks, curbs and a raised crosswalk. It should take until the end of December to get the work done, provided the weather co-operates.
Traffic will still be allowed through the construction so no need to practice a new route to work or school.
Watch for F-15’s
In recognition of Veterans Day, the Oregon Air National Guard will be executing several F-15 flyovers in the next few days. The bulk will be Tuesday morning.
Having witnessed these flyovers on multiple occasions, the staff at GoodNewsPDX can attest to the fact that this is a truly awe-inspiring sight and fitting tribute.
November 6, 2008
Civil War for a Cause
It’s that time of year again! As Football season in Oregon barrels towards the Civil War between the University of Oregon and Oregon State university (a game which COULD send the beavers to the Rose Bowl this year), alum and fans of both sides are teaming up for the Civil War Blood Drive.
The annual campaign by the Red Cross pits Beaver against Duck to see which side can gather the most donations.
Competitors also have a shot at tickets to this year’s football game. Last year they raised over 7,200 units of blood.
For more info go here
November 4, 2008
Dress for Success
It’s that time of year when people start rooting through their closets for items to donate to worthy causes like Goodwill and The Salvation Army. However, before you hand over that business suit or pair of dress shoes, consider donating them here instead.
Dress for Success is a national organization with an affiliate here in Portland, dedicated to helping aspiring business women in need. They collect gently-worn business attire and cash donations and then hand it off to women heading out on job interviews or into the work force.
Definitely worth checking out.
November 3, 2008
Free Starbucks
Starbucks is doing its part to help the democratic process. The Seattle-based giant built on espresso and lattes will be offering free coffee to voters on election day. No need to bring in a ballot envelope or other form of voting evidence. Simply state that you voted and you will be presented with a tall cup of their house brewed coffee on the house.
Starbucks says in the best tradition of democracy they’re using the honor system so those of us who cast our ballots last week or those who plan to fill out absentee ballots will also have a chance at the free hit of caffeine.