(SEATTLE, WA) JULY 30, 2009 – With carwashes, golf tournaments, softball games and dunk tanks, Farmers Insurance agents throughout Washington led their communities to raise $121,599 on July 22 to support March of Dimes programs to give every baby a healthy start in life.
Farmers efforts raised $2.6 million nationally, more than $600,000 above this year’s goal. Farmers Insurance also matched public donations to the March of Dimes made online (via marchofdimes.com/farmers) up to $250,000. That brings Farmers' total contribution to the March of Dimes so far this year to more than $4.1 million.
“This one-day event, organized and led by Farmers agents, is an extraordinary demonstration of how much they care about babies in Washington,” said Elaine Noonan, State Director of march of Dimes Washington. “Farmers efforts will provide support to urgently-needed research and education as the March of Dimes works to stem the growing crisis of premature birth, the leading cause of newborn death in the U.S."
Noonan added: “On behalf of the babies and families who will benefit, the March of Dimes wants to thank everyone who participated in “Be a Hero for Babies Day” and made it a success.”
Friday, July 31, 2009
All aboard! Volunteer needed for County Railroad Advisory Board
Vancouver, WA - The Clark County Board of Commissioners is seeking an individual to fill an unexpired term through December 2011 on the Clark County Railroad Advisory Board. The County owns a 33-mile short-line railroad that runs from Vancouver to Chelatchie Prairie. The line is commonly known as the Lewis and Clark Railroad or the Chelatchie Prairie Railroad.
The 15-member board advises the commissioners on how to achieve the maximum long-term return to the County from its investment in the railroad. Input from the advisory board will help develop key policy facets of the railroad operations. “The railroad is an important part of our long-term vision to bring jobs to Clark County,” said Board Chair Marc Boldt.
Applicants should have the following qualifications:
· Knowledge of railroad and transportation issues in Clark County
· Willingness to represent a broad spectrum of community interests
· Commitment to prepare for and attend monthly meetings (second Monday of each month from 4 to 6 p.m.).
Anyone interested in serving should submit a letter of interest and a resume by August 21 to Jennifer Clark in the commissioners’ office, P.O. Box 5000, Vancouver, WA 98666-5000. Commissioners will also accept applications by fax at
(360) 397-6058, or by e-mail to jennifer.clark@clark.wa.gov.
The 15-member board advises the commissioners on how to achieve the maximum long-term return to the County from its investment in the railroad. Input from the advisory board will help develop key policy facets of the railroad operations. “The railroad is an important part of our long-term vision to bring jobs to Clark County,” said Board Chair Marc Boldt.
Applicants should have the following qualifications:
· Knowledge of railroad and transportation issues in Clark County
· Willingness to represent a broad spectrum of community interests
· Commitment to prepare for and attend monthly meetings (second Monday of each month from 4 to 6 p.m.).
Anyone interested in serving should submit a letter of interest and a resume by August 21 to Jennifer Clark in the commissioners’ office, P.O. Box 5000, Vancouver, WA 98666-5000. Commissioners will also accept applications by fax at
(360) 397-6058, or by e-mail to jennifer.clark@clark.wa.gov.
Lightning fire burning in Gifford Pinchot National Forest’s Cowlitz Valley Ranger District
VANCOUVER, WA – Lightning storms from last Monday evening triggered at least three wildland fires in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest. Two of the lightning fires have been contained at less than one acre. The Langille Fire in the Cowlitz Valley Ranger District is estimated to be six acres as of Wednesday afternoon.
The fire is burning in high elevation fir stands in steep terrain along a ridgeline approximately one half mile south of McCoy Peak.
Fire fighters are on the lookout for any holdover fires from this week’s lightning storm.
Due to the fire, the Langille Ridge Trail and Rough Trail have been closed.
“With the hard work of initial attack crews, we are making good progress on the recent lightning fires,” said Deb Roy, Fire Management Officer for the Gifford Pinchot and Mt. Hood National Forests. “We are experiencing hot and dry conditions with the potential for more lightning in the Cascade Mountains so we are asking people to be extra careful and check for any fire restrictions before camping or visiting the forest.”
With continuing windy and dry conditions and recurring lightning, wildland fire danger in the Pacific Northwest remains very high. During the last several weeks, the Gifford Pinchot National Forest has received little to no
precipitation. Warming weather trends, and ongoing personnel and equipment support of wildfires around the region and nation emphasize the need for extreme caution and fire prevention efforts while visiting the forest.
Please contact your local Forest Service office or visit the Gifford Pinchot web site at www.fs.fed.us/gpnf for the latest information on fire prevention and fire restrictions.
The fire is burning in high elevation fir stands in steep terrain along a ridgeline approximately one half mile south of McCoy Peak.
Fire fighters are on the lookout for any holdover fires from this week’s lightning storm.
Due to the fire, the Langille Ridge Trail and Rough Trail have been closed.
“With the hard work of initial attack crews, we are making good progress on the recent lightning fires,” said Deb Roy, Fire Management Officer for the Gifford Pinchot and Mt. Hood National Forests. “We are experiencing hot and dry conditions with the potential for more lightning in the Cascade Mountains so we are asking people to be extra careful and check for any fire restrictions before camping or visiting the forest.”
With continuing windy and dry conditions and recurring lightning, wildland fire danger in the Pacific Northwest remains very high. During the last several weeks, the Gifford Pinchot National Forest has received little to no
precipitation. Warming weather trends, and ongoing personnel and equipment support of wildfires around the region and nation emphasize the need for extreme caution and fire prevention efforts while visiting the forest.
Please contact your local Forest Service office or visit the Gifford Pinchot web site at www.fs.fed.us/gpnf for the latest information on fire prevention and fire restrictions.
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Bike and pedestrian open house CANCELED due to heat
Vancouver, WA – Tonight's open house to discuss planning for biking and walking has been canceled due to weather. The air conditioning is not working at the Fisher’s Landing Transit Center where the open house was scheduled.
Another open house is this Thursday, July 30 on the 6th floor of the Clark County Public Service Center, 1300 Franklin Street, Vancouver. Planning to improve conditions for riding bikes and walking over the next 20 years is the focus for the open house which will run from 6 to 8 p.m.
Project Manager Laurie Nicholson said the public will have an opportunity to ask questions and learn the status of this Community Planning project. In addition, she said anyone interested may provide input on these three topics:
Potential updates to the Clark County Bicycle Commute Plan adopted in 1996.
How to enhance planning reflected in the Regional Trail & Bikeway Systems Plan adopted by Vancouver-Clark Parks and Recreation in 2006.
Broader concerns about how to make the county more “walkable” to promote health and safety for pedestrians both in urban and rural areas
Nicholson said a draft plan should be ready for additional review and comment in the fall, before it is forwarded to the Planning Commission and Board of Clark County Commissioners for hearings and formal consideration in 2010.
More information is available on the project Web site at www.clark.wa.gov/bikeandped. People interested in learning more may also contact Nicholson directly at (360) 397-2280, ext 4544, or e-mail laurie.nicholson@clark.wa.gov.
Another open house is this Thursday, July 30 on the 6th floor of the Clark County Public Service Center, 1300 Franklin Street, Vancouver. Planning to improve conditions for riding bikes and walking over the next 20 years is the focus for the open house which will run from 6 to 8 p.m.
Project Manager Laurie Nicholson said the public will have an opportunity to ask questions and learn the status of this Community Planning project. In addition, she said anyone interested may provide input on these three topics:
Potential updates to the Clark County Bicycle Commute Plan adopted in 1996.
How to enhance planning reflected in the Regional Trail & Bikeway Systems Plan adopted by Vancouver-Clark Parks and Recreation in 2006.
Broader concerns about how to make the county more “walkable” to promote health and safety for pedestrians both in urban and rural areas
Nicholson said a draft plan should be ready for additional review and comment in the fall, before it is forwarded to the Planning Commission and Board of Clark County Commissioners for hearings and formal consideration in 2010.
More information is available on the project Web site at www.clark.wa.gov/bikeandped. People interested in learning more may also contact Nicholson directly at (360) 397-2280, ext 4544, or e-mail laurie.nicholson@clark.wa.gov.
Baird Announces $3.9 Million to Hire New Police Officers
Washington, D.C. — Today, Congressman Brian Baird (D-WA-03) announced that almost $4 million in federal funding has been awarded to Southwest Washington law enforcement agencies to hire additional police officers. The funding comes from the Department of Justice’s Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) program, as part of funds made available through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. This money will pay the salaries, and all related expenses for 16 new entry level officers in Southwest Washington for 3 years.
“The COPS program has been invaluable in the fight against drug related crimes in Southwest Washington. Because of this program, our communities have been able to secure the money necessary to put more police officers on the streets, and make every neighborhood safer,” said Congressman Baird. “In these tough economic times, law enforcement agencies have been forced to institute hiring freezes, or even lay off officers. For the safety of our communities, we cannot let that happen. This money from the Recovery Act will provide communities with the resources they need to ensure they’re able to adequately protect residents.”
The funding announced today is part of one billion dollars that has been released nationwide. This money will enable law enforcement agencies in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Northern Mariana Islands and Guam to hire an additional 4,699 police officers.
The funding coming to local agencies breaks down as follows:
Agency Receiving Funding
Officers to be Hired
Funding Received
City of Vancouver
10
$2,582,710
Longview Police Dept.
3
$663,984
Centralia Police Dept.
2
$511,396
Castle Rock Police Dept
1
$209,620
Total:
16
$3,967,710
“The COPS program has been invaluable in the fight against drug related crimes in Southwest Washington. Because of this program, our communities have been able to secure the money necessary to put more police officers on the streets, and make every neighborhood safer,” said Congressman Baird. “In these tough economic times, law enforcement agencies have been forced to institute hiring freezes, or even lay off officers. For the safety of our communities, we cannot let that happen. This money from the Recovery Act will provide communities with the resources they need to ensure they’re able to adequately protect residents.”
The funding announced today is part of one billion dollars that has been released nationwide. This money will enable law enforcement agencies in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Northern Mariana Islands and Guam to hire an additional 4,699 police officers.
The funding coming to local agencies breaks down as follows:
Agency Receiving Funding
Officers to be Hired
Funding Received
City of Vancouver
10
$2,582,710
Longview Police Dept.
3
$663,984
Centralia Police Dept.
2
$511,396
Castle Rock Police Dept
1
$209,620
Total:
16
$3,967,710
VANCOUVER WALMART ANNOUNCES BIG CHANGES IN STORE
We wanted to send you a media release to give you the latest details on the remodel of the Vancouver Walmart store located on 104th Ave. Construction has begun for an extensive renovation. The store will receive a full remodel from the inside out and will represent the latest in Walmart’s store design and customer experience. The store will remain open during renovation, including all departments and services.
· The Logan Wal-Mart is hiring approximately 80 additional associates to help with the remodel.
· The remodel began on Sunday, July 19, 2009
· The expected completion date is October 2009
· The Logan Wal-Mart is hiring approximately 80 additional associates to help with the remodel.
· The remodel began on Sunday, July 19, 2009
· The expected completion date is October 2009
Federal Recovery funds aid food banks throughout state Gov. Chris Gregoire urges cash donations, volunteers to bolster effort
OLYMPIA – Food banks throughout Washington have begun receiving additional supplies of high-protein food through purchases made possible by federal funds.
Under the federal American Recovery & Reinvestment Act, Washington’s Emergency Food Assistance Program recently bought about $2 million worth of eggs, cheese and frozen turkey breast. More than 300,000 hungry low-income children, adults, elderly and homeless citizens will receive the extra supplies along with other food that is distributed regularly.
The Department of General Administration manages the Emergency Food Assistance Program. The program contracts with 21 organizations in Washington, including Food Lifeline and Northwest Harvest in Seattle and Second Harvest Inland Northwest in Spokane, to distribute food to 450 food banks, shelters and meal providers on both sides of the state.
The additional high-protein food arrives at a crucial time. Food banks are experiencing a growing demand due to current economic conditions. Despite the extra food made available by Recovery Act funds, more help is needed through cash donations and volunteer work, said Gov. Chris Gregoire.
“Cash and a few hours a month of volunteer work go a long way toward helping our neighbors who are in great need,” Gregoire said. “In January, I challenged every Washingtonian to give at least an hour a month to help those in need. It has been humbling to travel across the state and witness the work of volunteers, and meet the people who benefit. I encourage everyone to contact their local food bank to learn how they can help.”
Representatives of Food Lifeline and Second Harvest Inland Northwest agreed.
“We are so grateful to be able to provide this much-needed, high-protein food to our member food banks and meal programs during a time when they are struggling to keep their shelves stocked because demand is so high,” said Linda Nageotte, president and CEO of Food Lifeline. “We depend on the generosity of community members to help us meet this demand and continue serving our neighbors in need.”
Food Lifeline serves a network of more than 300 food banks, meal programs and shelters throughout Western Washington, and financial donations and volunteers are crucial during these difficult economic times.
“Food bank lines are growing and many people are asking for help for the first time,” said Jason Clark, executive director of Second Harvest Inland Northwest. “We need to keep pace with increased demand and the additional high-protein food from the Emergency Food Assistance Program will help us do that. These are important staples for the hungry families and seniors we serve.”
Second Harvest leads the fight against hunger in the Inland Northwest, distributing more than 1 million pounds of donated food each month through its service area of 21 counties in Eastern Washington. Partnerships with neighborhood food banks and meal centers make it possible for Second Harvest to provide food to more than 48,000 hungry people each week.
Washington state is administering Recovery Act investments with an unprecedented level of transparency and accountability. Gov. Gregoire created a new website, www.recovery.wa.gov, enabling every Washingtonian to see where their tax dollars are going and hold government accountable for the results.
· General Administration food assistance programs: http://www.ga.wa.gov/Food/index.html
· Food Lifeline: http://www.foodlifeline.org/
· Second Harvest Inland Northwest: http://www.2-harvest.org/
· Northwest Harvest: http://www.northwestharvest.org/
· Additional contact details for Washington food banks:
http://www.northwestharvest.org/Our_Partners/Partner_Programs.htm
Under the federal American Recovery & Reinvestment Act, Washington’s Emergency Food Assistance Program recently bought about $2 million worth of eggs, cheese and frozen turkey breast. More than 300,000 hungry low-income children, adults, elderly and homeless citizens will receive the extra supplies along with other food that is distributed regularly.
The Department of General Administration manages the Emergency Food Assistance Program. The program contracts with 21 organizations in Washington, including Food Lifeline and Northwest Harvest in Seattle and Second Harvest Inland Northwest in Spokane, to distribute food to 450 food banks, shelters and meal providers on both sides of the state.
The additional high-protein food arrives at a crucial time. Food banks are experiencing a growing demand due to current economic conditions. Despite the extra food made available by Recovery Act funds, more help is needed through cash donations and volunteer work, said Gov. Chris Gregoire.
“Cash and a few hours a month of volunteer work go a long way toward helping our neighbors who are in great need,” Gregoire said. “In January, I challenged every Washingtonian to give at least an hour a month to help those in need. It has been humbling to travel across the state and witness the work of volunteers, and meet the people who benefit. I encourage everyone to contact their local food bank to learn how they can help.”
Representatives of Food Lifeline and Second Harvest Inland Northwest agreed.
“We are so grateful to be able to provide this much-needed, high-protein food to our member food banks and meal programs during a time when they are struggling to keep their shelves stocked because demand is so high,” said Linda Nageotte, president and CEO of Food Lifeline. “We depend on the generosity of community members to help us meet this demand and continue serving our neighbors in need.”
Food Lifeline serves a network of more than 300 food banks, meal programs and shelters throughout Western Washington, and financial donations and volunteers are crucial during these difficult economic times.
“Food bank lines are growing and many people are asking for help for the first time,” said Jason Clark, executive director of Second Harvest Inland Northwest. “We need to keep pace with increased demand and the additional high-protein food from the Emergency Food Assistance Program will help us do that. These are important staples for the hungry families and seniors we serve.”
Second Harvest leads the fight against hunger in the Inland Northwest, distributing more than 1 million pounds of donated food each month through its service area of 21 counties in Eastern Washington. Partnerships with neighborhood food banks and meal centers make it possible for Second Harvest to provide food to more than 48,000 hungry people each week.
Washington state is administering Recovery Act investments with an unprecedented level of transparency and accountability. Gov. Gregoire created a new website, www.recovery.wa.gov, enabling every Washingtonian to see where their tax dollars are going and hold government accountable for the results.
· General Administration food assistance programs: http://www.ga.wa.gov/Food/index.html
· Food Lifeline: http://www.foodlifeline.org/
· Second Harvest Inland Northwest: http://www.2-harvest.org/
· Northwest Harvest: http://www.northwestharvest.org/
· Additional contact details for Washington food banks:
http://www.northwestharvest.org/Our_Partners/Partner_Programs.htm
8th Annual Share Golf Classic to Benefit Hungry & Homeless in Clark County
Vancouver, WA – The 8th Annual Share Golf Classic will be held Sat. Sept. 19 at The Cedars Golf Club, 15001 NE 181st St. Proceeds from the event will benefit the hungry and homeless in Clark County.
Event details are as follows: registration opens at 10 a.m., driving and putting contests at 11 a.m. and shotgun start at 1 p.m. Four-some fee is $400; Individual fee is $100; includes green fees, cart, dinner and tee prize.
To register, visit www.sharevancouver.org and click on the "Share Golf Classic" link; complete the registration form and mail it, along with registration fee, to: Share, Attn: Golf Classic, PO Box 1209, Vancouver, WA 98666. Entry deadline is Sept. 1; entries received after this date will be accepted on a space-available basis.
A special thank you to our 2009 Share Golf Classic Sponsors: Papa Murphy's Take ‘N' Bake Pizza, Neil Jones Food Company, Pepsi/Corwin Beverage Company, The Columbian, The Vancouver Business Journal, Lindsay Olive Company, Oregon Spice Company, Shaka Sound and International Union of Painters and Allied Trades District Council #5.
Share was founded in 1979 with the goal of caring for the homeless and hungry in the greater Vancouver area. Share operates four shelters for the homeless, a transitional housing program, case management programs, a street outreach program and provides daily meals for the homeless and low-income members of our community. Share also operates a summer meals program for low-income children and a backpack program at 23 schools to provide food for weekends to children receiving free or reduced-fee lunches. Additionally, Share offers financial programs that incorporate financial education, matched dollars for savings and secured credit cards; these programs are designed to assist in the improvement of credit scores and financial management. For more information on Share, visit our Web site at www.sharevancouver.org.
Event details are as follows: registration opens at 10 a.m., driving and putting contests at 11 a.m. and shotgun start at 1 p.m. Four-some fee is $400; Individual fee is $100; includes green fees, cart, dinner and tee prize.
To register, visit www.sharevancouver.org and click on the "Share Golf Classic" link; complete the registration form and mail it, along with registration fee, to: Share, Attn: Golf Classic, PO Box 1209, Vancouver, WA 98666. Entry deadline is Sept. 1; entries received after this date will be accepted on a space-available basis.
A special thank you to our 2009 Share Golf Classic Sponsors: Papa Murphy's Take ‘N' Bake Pizza, Neil Jones Food Company, Pepsi/Corwin Beverage Company, The Columbian, The Vancouver Business Journal, Lindsay Olive Company, Oregon Spice Company, Shaka Sound and International Union of Painters and Allied Trades District Council #5.
Share was founded in 1979 with the goal of caring for the homeless and hungry in the greater Vancouver area. Share operates four shelters for the homeless, a transitional housing program, case management programs, a street outreach program and provides daily meals for the homeless and low-income members of our community. Share also operates a summer meals program for low-income children and a backpack program at 23 schools to provide food for weekends to children receiving free or reduced-fee lunches. Additionally, Share offers financial programs that incorporate financial education, matched dollars for savings and secured credit cards; these programs are designed to assist in the improvement of credit scores and financial management. For more information on Share, visit our Web site at www.sharevancouver.org.
C-TRAN HEAT ADVISORY - SAFEWATCH IN EFFECT
Vancouver, WA: CRESA (Clark County's Emergency Services) has notified C-TRAN that the National Weather Service is anticipating an extreme warming trend to commence today and continue for several days. Temperatures are climbing into the triple digits today and are expected to remain high through most of the week.
C-TRAN operators, supervisors, security officers, dispatchers and passenger service representatives are requested to be on ‘Safewatch" alert and provide assistance to passengers and others who may experience adverse health impacts including heat stroke. Providing Safewatch assistance during extreme heat includes:
• Assisting those who are new to the system with trip planning to an air conditioned location such as the Mall;
• Allowing passengers to take shelter on C-TRAN's air conditioned buses and ride as long as they pay the proper fare;
• Being observant and calling for medical assistance for people who may be experiencing distress due to the heat, complications from medical problems, and any SafeWatch issue.
For the latest weather and heat advisories, please log onto the National Weather Service at www.nws.noaa.gov or tune to local stations in your area. C-TRAN information and trip planning assistance is available at www.c-tran.com, or by calling C-TRAN's Passenger Service Office at (360) 695-0123.
C-TRAN is the regional public transportation provider for portions of Clark County. It offers local bus service within its Clark County service area, Limited bus service to the nearest MAX light rail station, and Express commuter service to downtown Portland. It also provides Connector service within the city limits of Camas, La Center, and Ridgefield. For more information on C-TRAN please visit C-TRAN's Web site at www.c-tran.com, or call Passenger Service at (360) 695-0123.
C-TRAN operators, supervisors, security officers, dispatchers and passenger service representatives are requested to be on ‘Safewatch" alert and provide assistance to passengers and others who may experience adverse health impacts including heat stroke. Providing Safewatch assistance during extreme heat includes:
• Assisting those who are new to the system with trip planning to an air conditioned location such as the Mall;
• Allowing passengers to take shelter on C-TRAN's air conditioned buses and ride as long as they pay the proper fare;
• Being observant and calling for medical assistance for people who may be experiencing distress due to the heat, complications from medical problems, and any SafeWatch issue.
For the latest weather and heat advisories, please log onto the National Weather Service at www.nws.noaa.gov or tune to local stations in your area. C-TRAN information and trip planning assistance is available at www.c-tran.com, or by calling C-TRAN's Passenger Service Office at (360) 695-0123.
C-TRAN is the regional public transportation provider for portions of Clark County. It offers local bus service within its Clark County service area, Limited bus service to the nearest MAX light rail station, and Express commuter service to downtown Portland. It also provides Connector service within the city limits of Camas, La Center, and Ridgefield. For more information on C-TRAN please visit C-TRAN's Web site at www.c-tran.com, or call Passenger Service at (360) 695-0123.
Friday, July 24, 2009
When temperatures soar, keep cool
Vancouver, WA—As temperatures in the region approach 100 degrees early next week, public health and emergency management officials are urging residents to protect themselves from the heat.
“To prevent heat-related problems, people should avoid or limit physical activity outdoors, take shelter in air-conditioned buildings, and drink plenty of fluids. Elderly people and young children are especially vulnerable during periods of intense or prolonged heat.” said Dr. Alan Melnick, Clark County Health Officer. People who don’t have airconditioning at home should seek air-conditioned public spaces such as libraries or malls.
Important hot weather tips
§ Drink more fluids (non-alcoholic, non-caffeinated), regardless of your activity level. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink. If your doctor generally limits the amount of fluid you drink or has you on water pills, ask how much you should drink while the weather is hot.
§ Limit intake of liquids that contain caffeine, alcohol, or large amounts of sugar–these may cause you to lose more body fluid. Also, avoid very cold drinks, because they may cause stomach cramps.
§ Stay indoors and, if possible, in an air-conditioned place. If your home does not have air conditioning, go to a shopping mall or public library. Even a few hours spent in air conditioning can help your body stay cooler when you go back into the heat.
§ NEVER leave anyone in a closed, parked vehicle, especially young children. This applies to pets as well.
§ Electric fans will not prevent heat-related illness when the temperature reaches the high 90s. Taking a cool shower or bath, or moving to an air-conditioned place is a much better way to cool off.
§ Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing.
§ Although anyone may suffer from heat-related illness, some people are at greater risk than others. Check regularly on:
o Infants and young children
o People 65 or older
o Those who are physically ill, especially with heart disease or high blood pressure
§ Visit at-risk adults at least twice a day and closely watch them for signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Infants and young children need much more frequent watching.
If you must be out in the heat:
§ Limit your outdoor activity to morning and evening hours.
§ Cut down on exercise. If you exercise, avoid the midday hours and drink two to four glasses of cool, non-alcoholic fluids each hour. A sports beverage may replace the salt and minerals you lose in sweat.
§ Try to rest often in shady areas.
§ Protect yourself from the sun by wearing a wide-brimmed hat (also keeps you cooler) and sunglasses and by putting on sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher (the most effective products say “broad spectrum” or “UVA/UVB protection” on their labels).
Heat stroke
Heat stroke may cause death or permanent disability if emergency treatment is not provided. Warning signs of heat stroke vary but may include the following:
§ An extremely high body temperature (above 103°F, orally)
§ Red, hot, and dry skin (no sweating)
§ Rapid, strong pulse
§ Throbbing headache
§ Dizziness
§ Nausea
§ Confusion
§ Unconsciousness
If you see any of these signs, have someone call for immediate medical assistance while you begin cooling the victim. This can be done by placing the victim in a tub of cool water or in a cool shower, by spraying the victim with cool water from a garden hose, sponging with cool water, wrapping in a cool, wet sheet and fanning vigorously. Do not give fluids to drink. If emergency help is delayed, call the hospital emergency room for further instructions.
Heat exhaustion
Heat exhaustion is a milder form of heat-related illness that can develop after several days of exposure to high temperatures. It is the body's response to an excessive loss of water and salt in sweat. Those most prone to heat exhaustion are elderly people, people with high blood pressure, and people working or exercising in a hot environment. Warning signs of heat exhaustion include the following:
§ Heavy sweating
§ Paleness
§ Muscle cramps
§ Tiredness
§ Weakness
§ Dizziness
§ Headache
§ Nausea or vomiting
§ Fainting
The skin may be cool and moist. The victim's pulse will be fast and weak, and breathing will be fast and shallow. If heat exhaustion is untreated, it may progress to heat stroke. Seek medical attention immediately if symptoms are severe or if the victim has heart problems or high blood pressure. Otherwise, help the victim cool off and provide cool, non-alcoholic beverages. Seek medical attention if symptoms worsen or last longer than one hour.
Heat cramps
Heat cramps usually affect people who sweat a lot during strenuous activity. This sweating depletes the body's salt and moisture. The low salt level in the muscles causes painful cramps. Heat cramps may also be a symptom of heat exhaustion.
Heat cramps are muscle pains or spasms—usually in the abdomen, arms, or legs—that may occur in association with strenuous activity. If you have heart
problems or are on a low-sodium diet, get medical attention for heat cramps. If medical attention does not appear necessary, take these steps:
§ Stop all activity, and sit quietly in a cool place.
§ Drink clear juice or a sports beverage.
§ Do not return to strenuous activity for a few hours after the cramps subside, because further exertion may lead to heat exhaustion or heat stroke.
§ Seek medical attention for heat cramps if they do not subside in one hour.
“To prevent heat-related problems, people should avoid or limit physical activity outdoors, take shelter in air-conditioned buildings, and drink plenty of fluids. Elderly people and young children are especially vulnerable during periods of intense or prolonged heat.” said Dr. Alan Melnick, Clark County Health Officer. People who don’t have airconditioning at home should seek air-conditioned public spaces such as libraries or malls.
Important hot weather tips
§ Drink more fluids (non-alcoholic, non-caffeinated), regardless of your activity level. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink. If your doctor generally limits the amount of fluid you drink or has you on water pills, ask how much you should drink while the weather is hot.
§ Limit intake of liquids that contain caffeine, alcohol, or large amounts of sugar–these may cause you to lose more body fluid. Also, avoid very cold drinks, because they may cause stomach cramps.
§ Stay indoors and, if possible, in an air-conditioned place. If your home does not have air conditioning, go to a shopping mall or public library. Even a few hours spent in air conditioning can help your body stay cooler when you go back into the heat.
§ NEVER leave anyone in a closed, parked vehicle, especially young children. This applies to pets as well.
§ Electric fans will not prevent heat-related illness when the temperature reaches the high 90s. Taking a cool shower or bath, or moving to an air-conditioned place is a much better way to cool off.
§ Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing.
§ Although anyone may suffer from heat-related illness, some people are at greater risk than others. Check regularly on:
o Infants and young children
o People 65 or older
o Those who are physically ill, especially with heart disease or high blood pressure
§ Visit at-risk adults at least twice a day and closely watch them for signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Infants and young children need much more frequent watching.
If you must be out in the heat:
§ Limit your outdoor activity to morning and evening hours.
§ Cut down on exercise. If you exercise, avoid the midday hours and drink two to four glasses of cool, non-alcoholic fluids each hour. A sports beverage may replace the salt and minerals you lose in sweat.
§ Try to rest often in shady areas.
§ Protect yourself from the sun by wearing a wide-brimmed hat (also keeps you cooler) and sunglasses and by putting on sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher (the most effective products say “broad spectrum” or “UVA/UVB protection” on their labels).
Heat stroke
Heat stroke may cause death or permanent disability if emergency treatment is not provided. Warning signs of heat stroke vary but may include the following:
§ An extremely high body temperature (above 103°F, orally)
§ Red, hot, and dry skin (no sweating)
§ Rapid, strong pulse
§ Throbbing headache
§ Dizziness
§ Nausea
§ Confusion
§ Unconsciousness
If you see any of these signs, have someone call for immediate medical assistance while you begin cooling the victim. This can be done by placing the victim in a tub of cool water or in a cool shower, by spraying the victim with cool water from a garden hose, sponging with cool water, wrapping in a cool, wet sheet and fanning vigorously. Do not give fluids to drink. If emergency help is delayed, call the hospital emergency room for further instructions.
Heat exhaustion
Heat exhaustion is a milder form of heat-related illness that can develop after several days of exposure to high temperatures. It is the body's response to an excessive loss of water and salt in sweat. Those most prone to heat exhaustion are elderly people, people with high blood pressure, and people working or exercising in a hot environment. Warning signs of heat exhaustion include the following:
§ Heavy sweating
§ Paleness
§ Muscle cramps
§ Tiredness
§ Weakness
§ Dizziness
§ Headache
§ Nausea or vomiting
§ Fainting
The skin may be cool and moist. The victim's pulse will be fast and weak, and breathing will be fast and shallow. If heat exhaustion is untreated, it may progress to heat stroke. Seek medical attention immediately if symptoms are severe or if the victim has heart problems or high blood pressure. Otherwise, help the victim cool off and provide cool, non-alcoholic beverages. Seek medical attention if symptoms worsen or last longer than one hour.
Heat cramps
Heat cramps usually affect people who sweat a lot during strenuous activity. This sweating depletes the body's salt and moisture. The low salt level in the muscles causes painful cramps. Heat cramps may also be a symptom of heat exhaustion.
Heat cramps are muscle pains or spasms—usually in the abdomen, arms, or legs—that may occur in association with strenuous activity. If you have heart
problems or are on a low-sodium diet, get medical attention for heat cramps. If medical attention does not appear necessary, take these steps:
§ Stop all activity, and sit quietly in a cool place.
§ Drink clear juice or a sports beverage.
§ Do not return to strenuous activity for a few hours after the cramps subside, because further exertion may lead to heat exhaustion or heat stroke.
§ Seek medical attention for heat cramps if they do not subside in one hour.
Baird Announces Funding for Transportation Projects
Washington, D.C. — Today, Congressman Brian Baird (D-WA-03) announced funding for two key transportation projects has been included in the latest in a series of appropriations bills that will fund the federal government for the 2010 fiscal year. H.R. 3288 funds the Department of Transportation and the Department of Housing and Urban Development. The bill must still be passed by the Senate.
“By making these investments in our future, we are insuring that Southwest Washington will remain one of the most desirable places in the country to call home,” said Congressman Baird. “As our region’s population grows, our infrastructure needs to grow with it. By improving the Mill Plain intersection and increasing public transportation options in Pacific County we are ensuring that we will be able to meet the needs of our expanding population.”
The two projects receiving funding are:
Construction: Mill Plain Blvd / SE 136th Avenue Intersection - $300,000
As the population of Clark County increases, this project will allow for construction of additional turn lanes at this increasingly busy intersection. This increase in road capacity will allow for better, more efficient access to businesses in East Vancouver, as well as nearby Mountain View High School.
Pacific Transit Vehicle Replacement - $250,000
This money will allow for the agency to replace one bus. This will ensure that Pacific County Transit is able to continue providing safe and reliable transportation service to Raymond, Aberdeen, South Beach, Naselle, Ilwaco, and the Long Beach Peninsula loop. Purchasing this bus will also allow the agency to continue to provide complementary Dial-a-Ride service for elderly and disabled residents.
“By making these investments in our future, we are insuring that Southwest Washington will remain one of the most desirable places in the country to call home,” said Congressman Baird. “As our region’s population grows, our infrastructure needs to grow with it. By improving the Mill Plain intersection and increasing public transportation options in Pacific County we are ensuring that we will be able to meet the needs of our expanding population.”
The two projects receiving funding are:
Construction: Mill Plain Blvd / SE 136th Avenue Intersection - $300,000
As the population of Clark County increases, this project will allow for construction of additional turn lanes at this increasingly busy intersection. This increase in road capacity will allow for better, more efficient access to businesses in East Vancouver, as well as nearby Mountain View High School.
Pacific Transit Vehicle Replacement - $250,000
This money will allow for the agency to replace one bus. This will ensure that Pacific County Transit is able to continue providing safe and reliable transportation service to Raymond, Aberdeen, South Beach, Naselle, Ilwaco, and the Long Beach Peninsula loop. Purchasing this bus will also allow the agency to continue to provide complementary Dial-a-Ride service for elderly and disabled residents.
Public meeting scheduled for Hazel Dell sports fields project
Vancouver, WA – Clark County Public Works and Vancouver-Clark Parks and Recreation will host a public meeting on July 30, 2009, to present and discuss the latest information about the proposed Hazel Dell Sports Fields project. The meeting begins at 7 p.m. in building B1 at the Clark County Public Works Operations Division Conference Center, 4700 N.E.78th St., Vancouver.
The proposed sports fields would be located on the north side of Northeast 78th Street, about a quarter mile west of St. Johns Road. To meet needs of local youth sports groups, the project scope includes five baseball fields (1 full-size, 2 intermediate and 2 t-ball), batting cages, restroom facilities, a parking lot, access roads and walkways and improvements to adjacent roads. The county will also identify and preserve space for a future neighborhood park on the north side of the property.
Staff will present an updated draft concept plan at the public meeting, and provide information on a variety of topics, including:
· the youth sports groups and teams that will use the site
· traffic, parking and road improvements
· noise and light buffering
· environmental preservation and education opportunities
The development plans are still preliminary and interested members of the public are encouraged to attend this meeting to provide input on the project. Those who cannot attend the public meeting will be able to review the display and handout materials and provide comments through the project Web page starting on July 31, 2009. The county will accept comments through August 6, 2009.
Design and construction of the sports fields is being funded by the real estate excise tax, which is paid whenever property is sold. The Greater Clark Parks District, a special district approved by voters in the unincorporated urban area of Clark County in 2005, will pay for maintenance after construction.
For more information about this project, please contact Project Manager Matt Griswold at (360) 397-6118 ext. 4372, or by e-mail at Matt.Griswold@clark.wa.gov, or visit the project Web page: www.clarkparks.org/projects/hazeldellsports.htm.
The proposed sports fields would be located on the north side of Northeast 78th Street, about a quarter mile west of St. Johns Road. To meet needs of local youth sports groups, the project scope includes five baseball fields (1 full-size, 2 intermediate and 2 t-ball), batting cages, restroom facilities, a parking lot, access roads and walkways and improvements to adjacent roads. The county will also identify and preserve space for a future neighborhood park on the north side of the property.
Staff will present an updated draft concept plan at the public meeting, and provide information on a variety of topics, including:
· the youth sports groups and teams that will use the site
· traffic, parking and road improvements
· noise and light buffering
· environmental preservation and education opportunities
The development plans are still preliminary and interested members of the public are encouraged to attend this meeting to provide input on the project. Those who cannot attend the public meeting will be able to review the display and handout materials and provide comments through the project Web page starting on July 31, 2009. The county will accept comments through August 6, 2009.
Design and construction of the sports fields is being funded by the real estate excise tax, which is paid whenever property is sold. The Greater Clark Parks District, a special district approved by voters in the unincorporated urban area of Clark County in 2005, will pay for maintenance after construction.
For more information about this project, please contact Project Manager Matt Griswold at (360) 397-6118 ext. 4372, or by e-mail at Matt.Griswold@clark.wa.gov, or visit the project Web page: www.clarkparks.org/projects/hazeldellsports.htm.
Wells Fargo ATM’s Salute Washington Teacher of the Year
ATMs across state honor Susan Johnson
VANCOUVER, Wash. – Wells Fargo is using most of its 185 ATMs across Washington, including Clark County, to honor Washington’s 2009 Teacher of the Year, Susan Johnson. Johnson teaches English language arts at Cle Elum Roslyn High School in Cle Elum, Wash. (southeast of Seattle).
Those using a Wells Fargo ATM in Washington between now and Oct. 5 can learn more about Johnson’s accomplishments. By simply pressing a button on the ATM screen, they can discover just a few of the reasons why she is this year’s honoree.
“At Wells Fargo we’re committed to the communities we serve and we’re proud to feature Susan Johnson,” said Don Pearson, regional president for Wells Fargo in southwest Washington and Oregon. “Teachers are so important to our community. This is one way we can recognize and honor one of our state’s best.”
Washington State’s Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction named Johnson its 2009 Teacher of the Year last October. This is the third year that Wells Fargo has used its ATM screens to honor Washington’s winning teacher.
Johnson’s love of language and literacy drives her curriculum, designed to engender a passion for learning in her students. In addition to teaching high school, she also serves as the K-12 writing content team leader for her school district, serves on the district Curriculum Cabinet, facilitates a grant funded professional development initiative at her school and serves as co-director for the Central Washington Writing Project.
Founded in 1852, Wells Fargo & Company is a diversified financial services company with $1.3 trillion in assets, providing banking, insurance, investments, mortgage and consumer finance through more than 10,000 stores and 12,000 ATMs and the internet (wellsfargo.com) across North America and internationally.
VANCOUVER, Wash. – Wells Fargo is using most of its 185 ATMs across Washington, including Clark County, to honor Washington’s 2009 Teacher of the Year, Susan Johnson. Johnson teaches English language arts at Cle Elum Roslyn High School in Cle Elum, Wash. (southeast of Seattle).
Those using a Wells Fargo ATM in Washington between now and Oct. 5 can learn more about Johnson’s accomplishments. By simply pressing a button on the ATM screen, they can discover just a few of the reasons why she is this year’s honoree.
“At Wells Fargo we’re committed to the communities we serve and we’re proud to feature Susan Johnson,” said Don Pearson, regional president for Wells Fargo in southwest Washington and Oregon. “Teachers are so important to our community. This is one way we can recognize and honor one of our state’s best.”
Washington State’s Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction named Johnson its 2009 Teacher of the Year last October. This is the third year that Wells Fargo has used its ATM screens to honor Washington’s winning teacher.
Johnson’s love of language and literacy drives her curriculum, designed to engender a passion for learning in her students. In addition to teaching high school, she also serves as the K-12 writing content team leader for her school district, serves on the district Curriculum Cabinet, facilitates a grant funded professional development initiative at her school and serves as co-director for the Central Washington Writing Project.
Founded in 1852, Wells Fargo & Company is a diversified financial services company with $1.3 trillion in assets, providing banking, insurance, investments, mortgage and consumer finance through more than 10,000 stores and 12,000 ATMs and the internet (wellsfargo.com) across North America and internationally.
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Vancouver Lake closed to swimmers due to E. coli and blue-green algae
Vancouver Lake Regional Park will remain open to the public
Vancouver, WA – Clark County Public Health and Vancouver-Clark Parks and Recreation are advising the public to avoid direct contact with water at Vancouver Lake due to elevated levels of E. coli bacteria and blue-green algae revealed by routine testing. Because exposure to either E. coli bacteria or blue-green algae can cause disease, public health officials are recommending:
· No swimming or wading
· No wind surfing or sail boarding
· No water contact for animals
· Precautions against contact with water while boating or fishing
“It is especially important to keep children out of the lake because they are more likely to swallow some of the water than adults,” said Dr. Alan Melnick, Clark County Health Officer. The health warning will remain in effect until tests show that E. coli levels do not exceed Washington State and US Environmental Protection Agency guidelines, and blue-green algae levels do not exceed World Health Organization guidelines.
Vancouver Lake Regional Park will remain open to the public. Water within the restrooms and shelters is unaffected by the lake water and remains safe to drink.
Clark County Public Health will continue to test the lake and will advise the public when water contact is considered safe again. Swimmers are encouraged to visit the Vancouver-Clark Parks & Recreation Web site at http://www.cityofvancouver.us/parks-recreation/ for other swimming options.
Information about E. coli
E. coli is a common kind of bacteria that lives in the intestines of animals and people. The presence of E. coli in Vancouver Lake water indicates that the water may contain bacteria found in animal or human feces. Some of these bacteria are capable of causing severe gastrointestinal illness.
Depending on the cause, people with gastrointestinal infections may experience fever, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting and/or diarrhea beginning several hours to several days or longer after exposure. Some infections, such as E. coli 0157:H7 may cause bloody diarrhea. Taking antibiotics or over-the-counter, anti-diarrhea medicines can make some infections worse. People who experience bloody diarrhea or persistent gastrointestinal symptoms should call their physician or other healthcare provider.
Information about blue-green algae
A blue-green algal bloom is a rapid and massive buildup that gives the water a scummy texture and a green color. It may also appear bluish, brownish or reddish green. A bloom may appear during warm weather, usually between May and October.
Warm, sunny weather and the presence of nutrients can cause algal blooms. Nutrients that enter the water and promote algal blooms include phosphorus and nitrogen, found in fertilizers and in agricultural, human, and animal waste.
Some algae may contain toxins that can lead to liver injury, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. In addition, the toxins can damage the nervous system and lead to muscle tremors, paralysis and respiratory distress. Skin irritations, allergic reactions, rashes and blisters also are possible. Symptoms may occur within minutes or appear hours or days later following exposure. If you have had contact with the water and experience any of these symptoms, you may wish to contact your health care provider. Because warm blooded animals, such as cats, dogs and livestock are at risk from exposure, please keep pets out of the lake.
Vancouver, WA – Clark County Public Health and Vancouver-Clark Parks and Recreation are advising the public to avoid direct contact with water at Vancouver Lake due to elevated levels of E. coli bacteria and blue-green algae revealed by routine testing. Because exposure to either E. coli bacteria or blue-green algae can cause disease, public health officials are recommending:
· No swimming or wading
· No wind surfing or sail boarding
· No water contact for animals
· Precautions against contact with water while boating or fishing
“It is especially important to keep children out of the lake because they are more likely to swallow some of the water than adults,” said Dr. Alan Melnick, Clark County Health Officer. The health warning will remain in effect until tests show that E. coli levels do not exceed Washington State and US Environmental Protection Agency guidelines, and blue-green algae levels do not exceed World Health Organization guidelines.
Vancouver Lake Regional Park will remain open to the public. Water within the restrooms and shelters is unaffected by the lake water and remains safe to drink.
Clark County Public Health will continue to test the lake and will advise the public when water contact is considered safe again. Swimmers are encouraged to visit the Vancouver-Clark Parks & Recreation Web site at http://www.cityofvancouver.us/parks-recreation/ for other swimming options.
Information about E. coli
E. coli is a common kind of bacteria that lives in the intestines of animals and people. The presence of E. coli in Vancouver Lake water indicates that the water may contain bacteria found in animal or human feces. Some of these bacteria are capable of causing severe gastrointestinal illness.
Depending on the cause, people with gastrointestinal infections may experience fever, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting and/or diarrhea beginning several hours to several days or longer after exposure. Some infections, such as E. coli 0157:H7 may cause bloody diarrhea. Taking antibiotics or over-the-counter, anti-diarrhea medicines can make some infections worse. People who experience bloody diarrhea or persistent gastrointestinal symptoms should call their physician or other healthcare provider.
Information about blue-green algae
A blue-green algal bloom is a rapid and massive buildup that gives the water a scummy texture and a green color. It may also appear bluish, brownish or reddish green. A bloom may appear during warm weather, usually between May and October.
Warm, sunny weather and the presence of nutrients can cause algal blooms. Nutrients that enter the water and promote algal blooms include phosphorus and nitrogen, found in fertilizers and in agricultural, human, and animal waste.
Some algae may contain toxins that can lead to liver injury, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. In addition, the toxins can damage the nervous system and lead to muscle tremors, paralysis and respiratory distress. Skin irritations, allergic reactions, rashes and blisters also are possible. Symptoms may occur within minutes or appear hours or days later following exposure. If you have had contact with the water and experience any of these symptoms, you may wish to contact your health care provider. Because warm blooded animals, such as cats, dogs and livestock are at risk from exposure, please keep pets out of the lake.
New law may spare employers from unemployment costs related to returning reservists
OLYMPIA – Under a new state law that takes effect this Sunday, most employers in Washington can avoid unemployment-insurance charges for laid-off workers temporarily hired to backfill positions previously held by military reservists.
Washington’s unemployment-insurance program is an experience-based system. In general, an employer’s tax rate depends on the unemployment benefits provided to former employees.
Legislation (Senate Bill 5009) approved during the 2009 session allows employers to request relief from benefit charges for temporary employees whom they must lay off when a military reservist or National Guard member returns to work from active military service. The measure goes into effect on July 26.
To avoid being charged for these benefits, employers must contact Employment Security and specify which layoffs are due to military members returning to work.
“We corrected a clear wrong,” said Sen. Chris Marr, a Spokane Democrat who sponsored the legislation. “We should be encouraging employers to do what they can to support our servicemen and women, not saddling them with higher unemployment insurance costs for doing so. This new law removes that very obstacle and gets the state out of the way.”
“Employers who welcome reservists back into the work place shouldn’t be penalized through higher unemployment taxes,” said Employment Security Commissioner Karen Lee. “This law allows our unemployment system to treat both the temporary workers and their employers with compassion.”
The new law does not apply to certain employers, including state, local and federal governments; public schools; some tribal entities; and some non-profit organizations with 501(c)(3) status. These reimbursable employers are still required to pay dollar for dollar for all unemployment benefits paid to former employees.
Washington’s unemployment-insurance program is an experience-based system. In general, an employer’s tax rate depends on the unemployment benefits provided to former employees.
Legislation (Senate Bill 5009) approved during the 2009 session allows employers to request relief from benefit charges for temporary employees whom they must lay off when a military reservist or National Guard member returns to work from active military service. The measure goes into effect on July 26.
To avoid being charged for these benefits, employers must contact Employment Security and specify which layoffs are due to military members returning to work.
“We corrected a clear wrong,” said Sen. Chris Marr, a Spokane Democrat who sponsored the legislation. “We should be encouraging employers to do what they can to support our servicemen and women, not saddling them with higher unemployment insurance costs for doing so. This new law removes that very obstacle and gets the state out of the way.”
“Employers who welcome reservists back into the work place shouldn’t be penalized through higher unemployment taxes,” said Employment Security Commissioner Karen Lee. “This law allows our unemployment system to treat both the temporary workers and their employers with compassion.”
The new law does not apply to certain employers, including state, local and federal governments; public schools; some tribal entities; and some non-profit organizations with 501(c)(3) status. These reimbursable employers are still required to pay dollar for dollar for all unemployment benefits paid to former employees.
Business Owners Welcome Minimum Wage Increase
Raising minimum wage will help economy, say national business leaders and small business owners from states affected by July 24 increase
July 21, 2009, Boston, MA - Business owners across the nation are welcoming the July 24 increase in the federal minimum wage from $6.55 to $7.25. National business leaders and small business owners in states where workers are getting a raise say the increase will boost consumer buying power and promote economic recovery.
"A minimum wage increase at this time could be the most important factor in powering our economy out of the recession," said Camille Caramor, owner of a paralegal service and Christmas tree farm in Louisiana. "The higher the wage an employee receives, the more income he or she has to purchase goods and services for their family, which is indeed 'the best medicine' for our economy." More than 8% of workers will be affected by the minimum wage increase in Louisiana.
Richard Ketring, president of VHS Cleaning Services in Ashland, Wisc. said, "When we raise the incomes of the lowest paid employees the money is immediately spent and flows instantly into the economy. The increased income can also make for more reliable workers as it reduces the stress that many minimum wage workers experience as they work extra jobs, juggle day care, work when sick or don't receive needed medical care -- causing further distress later. I support the minimum wage increase not only because it is the right thing to do, but it is good for business." More than 7% of Wisc. workers will receive a raise.
U.S. Women's Chamber of Commerce CEO Margot Dorfman said, "Now, more than ever, it's imperative that employees are paid a fair minimum wage. It is an unsustainable and dangerous downward spiral to push American workers into poverty and expect taxpayers to pick up the bill for the consequences. Minimum wage laws guarantee to taxpayers that businesses are playing fair and compensating workers at responsible levels."
One out of ten workers will be affected by the minimum wage increase in Texas. "I cannot understand how we expect families to exist without a national wage scale that is a livable wage. Workers' families have to eat too," said Bernard Rapoport, founder and chairman emeritus of American Income Life Insurance Company, headquartered in Waco, TX.
Richard Johnson, president of Associated Merchant Services in Nashville, Tenn. said, "I'm for a higher minimum wage. There is no rational reason why our society should allow some people to earn enough to own five mansions while those who pick their fruit, do their laundry and pick up their garbage can't even afford a small house. Picking fruit and picking up garbage is hard work, and why shouldn't someone who is willing to do that be rewarded with enough income to enjoy a decent lifestyle?" More than 6% of Tenn. workers will get a raise with the minimum wage increase.
Nearly 1,000 business owners and executives including Costco CEO Jim Sinegal, U.S. Women's Chamber of Commerce CEO Margot Dorfman, ABC Home CEO and 2009 Home Fashion Products Association Retailer of the Year Paulette Cole, Addus Healthcare CEO Mark Heaney, Credo Mobile President Michael Kieschnick, Business Alliance for Local Living Economies Co-Founder Doug Hammond, and small business owners from all 50 states -- have signed a statement supporting the minimum wage increase. As the Business For a Fair Minimum Wage statement points out, "Higher wages benefit business by increasing consumer purchasing power, reducing costly employee turnover, raising productivity, and improving product quality, customer satisfaction and company reputation."
With more than 60 local networks in the U.S. representing tens of thousands of locally owned businesses, the Business Alliance for Local Living Economies (BALLE) is the world's fastest growing network of economically and environmentally sustainable businesses. Michael Shuman, BALLE director of research and public policy, said, "In the view of our members, raising the minimum wage to $7.25 is an overdue step in providing a decent, fair livelihood to American workers and creating a truly 'living economy.'"
"Anyone who thinks the minimum wage shouldn't be raised should try living on it," said Phillip Rubin, CEO of Computer Software for Professionals in Oakland, CA.
"I am a small business owner in Boise, Idaho who strongly supports the increased minimum wage," said Scot McGavin, owner of Puentes Language Programs. "Every person should have enough incentive that investing of themselves in their work will allow them to provide for themselves and their family. This extra income will benefit many in our society since it will be reinvested back into the economy." According to the Economic Policy Institute, nearly 9% of Idaho workers will get a raise when the minimum wage goes up.
Beverly Johnson, legislative chair of Kansas Business and Professional Women said, "We are all in this together. People working hard and responsibly should be paid an amount valuing their personal human dignity. For example, we need 'ditch diggers.' I don't want to dig ditches. If I want my ditches to be dug, then I should not be paying the least amount that a 'desperate' person will work for. I must pay fairly in a way that will assure he can afford necessities and preserve his human dignity -- even if it means I earn a little less." More than 8% of Kansas workers will receive a raise.
"It's a myth that a minimum wage increase kills job development," said Lya Sorano, founder of Atlanta Women in Business. "To get out of this recession, we need more money to circulate. That happens when people get bigger paychecks, who today can't afford to buy the goods and services they need -- goods and services from some of the same people who seem to be opposed to the increase." Nearly 7% of workers will see a raise in Georgia.
"The stress of poverty puts the mind in a place of worry instead of work," said Nancy Denker, owner of Focus Ink in Albuquerque, NM. "Living on a shoestring is not the best incentive for workers. Business owners must realize that as our community prospers, so will business."
The first federal minimum wage was legislated during the Great Depression to boost wages to ease the hardship of workers and increase the consumer purchasing power needed for job creation and economic recovery. With the economy in the worst crisis since the Depression, the minimum wage increase plays the same role today. Business leaders say that putting a stronger wage floor under workers will put a stronger foundation under our economy and our country.
"History has proven time and again that increasing the minimum wage increases purchasing power among people who are living hand to mouth and must therefore spend the additional income on necessities -- food, clothing, transportation and so on," said Arnold Hiatt, chairman of the Stride Rite Foundation and former CEO of the Stride Rite Corporation. "What better way to increase demand for the goods and services that businesses urgently need."
The minimum wage was not increased for ten years from 1997 to 2007 -- the longest period in history without a raise. Even with the raise to $7.25, workers will still make less than the $7.86 they made in 1956, adjusting for inflation.
Miranda Magagnini, Co-Ceo of IceStone, the award-winning Brooklyn, NY-based manufacturer of sustainable durable surfaces, said, "We pay living wages at IceStone plus medical benefits because we do not believe folks can 'live' on minimum wage -- especially without health insurance. A raise in the minimum is a move in the right direction, but $7.25 an hour is $2.75 lower than it should be."
"We cannot build a strong 21st century economy on a 1950s' wage floor. We cannot build a strong 21st century economy when more and more hardworking Americans struggle to make ends meet," business leaders say in the statement at www.businessforafairminimumwage.org. "A fair minimum wage is a sound investment in the future of our communities and our nation."
"A fair minimum wage protects the middle class and gives entry level workers some economic breathing room," said Lew Prince, CEO and co-owner of Vintage Vinyl in St. Louis, MO. "When everyone is feeling insecure, rebuilding our economy starts with showing hard-working Americans that their time has value and their work will be rewarded. If we want to put the great American success story back on track, all of us need to feel that we have access to that opportunity."
The statement supporting the minimum wage increase and a List of Signatories By State is available at http://www.businessforafairminimumwage.org/signatories. To arrange interviews with businesspeople, contact Bob Keener at 617-610-6766, bobkeener@comcast.net.
Business for a Fair Minimum Wage is a project of Business for Shared Prosperity, which mobilizes business support for policies that expand opportunity, reduce inequality, promote innovation, entrepreneurship and sustainability, and rebuild our nation's infrastructure for enduring progress.
July 21, 2009, Boston, MA - Business owners across the nation are welcoming the July 24 increase in the federal minimum wage from $6.55 to $7.25. National business leaders and small business owners in states where workers are getting a raise say the increase will boost consumer buying power and promote economic recovery.
"A minimum wage increase at this time could be the most important factor in powering our economy out of the recession," said Camille Caramor, owner of a paralegal service and Christmas tree farm in Louisiana. "The higher the wage an employee receives, the more income he or she has to purchase goods and services for their family, which is indeed 'the best medicine' for our economy." More than 8% of workers will be affected by the minimum wage increase in Louisiana.
Richard Ketring, president of VHS Cleaning Services in Ashland, Wisc. said, "When we raise the incomes of the lowest paid employees the money is immediately spent and flows instantly into the economy. The increased income can also make for more reliable workers as it reduces the stress that many minimum wage workers experience as they work extra jobs, juggle day care, work when sick or don't receive needed medical care -- causing further distress later. I support the minimum wage increase not only because it is the right thing to do, but it is good for business." More than 7% of Wisc. workers will receive a raise.
U.S. Women's Chamber of Commerce CEO Margot Dorfman said, "Now, more than ever, it's imperative that employees are paid a fair minimum wage. It is an unsustainable and dangerous downward spiral to push American workers into poverty and expect taxpayers to pick up the bill for the consequences. Minimum wage laws guarantee to taxpayers that businesses are playing fair and compensating workers at responsible levels."
One out of ten workers will be affected by the minimum wage increase in Texas. "I cannot understand how we expect families to exist without a national wage scale that is a livable wage. Workers' families have to eat too," said Bernard Rapoport, founder and chairman emeritus of American Income Life Insurance Company, headquartered in Waco, TX.
Richard Johnson, president of Associated Merchant Services in Nashville, Tenn. said, "I'm for a higher minimum wage. There is no rational reason why our society should allow some people to earn enough to own five mansions while those who pick their fruit, do their laundry and pick up their garbage can't even afford a small house. Picking fruit and picking up garbage is hard work, and why shouldn't someone who is willing to do that be rewarded with enough income to enjoy a decent lifestyle?" More than 6% of Tenn. workers will get a raise with the minimum wage increase.
Nearly 1,000 business owners and executives including Costco CEO Jim Sinegal, U.S. Women's Chamber of Commerce CEO Margot Dorfman, ABC Home CEO and 2009 Home Fashion Products Association Retailer of the Year Paulette Cole, Addus Healthcare CEO Mark Heaney, Credo Mobile President Michael Kieschnick, Business Alliance for Local Living Economies Co-Founder Doug Hammond, and small business owners from all 50 states -- have signed a statement supporting the minimum wage increase. As the Business For a Fair Minimum Wage statement points out, "Higher wages benefit business by increasing consumer purchasing power, reducing costly employee turnover, raising productivity, and improving product quality, customer satisfaction and company reputation."
With more than 60 local networks in the U.S. representing tens of thousands of locally owned businesses, the Business Alliance for Local Living Economies (BALLE) is the world's fastest growing network of economically and environmentally sustainable businesses. Michael Shuman, BALLE director of research and public policy, said, "In the view of our members, raising the minimum wage to $7.25 is an overdue step in providing a decent, fair livelihood to American workers and creating a truly 'living economy.'"
"Anyone who thinks the minimum wage shouldn't be raised should try living on it," said Phillip Rubin, CEO of Computer Software for Professionals in Oakland, CA.
"I am a small business owner in Boise, Idaho who strongly supports the increased minimum wage," said Scot McGavin, owner of Puentes Language Programs. "Every person should have enough incentive that investing of themselves in their work will allow them to provide for themselves and their family. This extra income will benefit many in our society since it will be reinvested back into the economy." According to the Economic Policy Institute, nearly 9% of Idaho workers will get a raise when the minimum wage goes up.
Beverly Johnson, legislative chair of Kansas Business and Professional Women said, "We are all in this together. People working hard and responsibly should be paid an amount valuing their personal human dignity. For example, we need 'ditch diggers.' I don't want to dig ditches. If I want my ditches to be dug, then I should not be paying the least amount that a 'desperate' person will work for. I must pay fairly in a way that will assure he can afford necessities and preserve his human dignity -- even if it means I earn a little less." More than 8% of Kansas workers will receive a raise.
"It's a myth that a minimum wage increase kills job development," said Lya Sorano, founder of Atlanta Women in Business. "To get out of this recession, we need more money to circulate. That happens when people get bigger paychecks, who today can't afford to buy the goods and services they need -- goods and services from some of the same people who seem to be opposed to the increase." Nearly 7% of workers will see a raise in Georgia.
"The stress of poverty puts the mind in a place of worry instead of work," said Nancy Denker, owner of Focus Ink in Albuquerque, NM. "Living on a shoestring is not the best incentive for workers. Business owners must realize that as our community prospers, so will business."
The first federal minimum wage was legislated during the Great Depression to boost wages to ease the hardship of workers and increase the consumer purchasing power needed for job creation and economic recovery. With the economy in the worst crisis since the Depression, the minimum wage increase plays the same role today. Business leaders say that putting a stronger wage floor under workers will put a stronger foundation under our economy and our country.
"History has proven time and again that increasing the minimum wage increases purchasing power among people who are living hand to mouth and must therefore spend the additional income on necessities -- food, clothing, transportation and so on," said Arnold Hiatt, chairman of the Stride Rite Foundation and former CEO of the Stride Rite Corporation. "What better way to increase demand for the goods and services that businesses urgently need."
The minimum wage was not increased for ten years from 1997 to 2007 -- the longest period in history without a raise. Even with the raise to $7.25, workers will still make less than the $7.86 they made in 1956, adjusting for inflation.
Miranda Magagnini, Co-Ceo of IceStone, the award-winning Brooklyn, NY-based manufacturer of sustainable durable surfaces, said, "We pay living wages at IceStone plus medical benefits because we do not believe folks can 'live' on minimum wage -- especially without health insurance. A raise in the minimum is a move in the right direction, but $7.25 an hour is $2.75 lower than it should be."
"We cannot build a strong 21st century economy on a 1950s' wage floor. We cannot build a strong 21st century economy when more and more hardworking Americans struggle to make ends meet," business leaders say in the statement at www.businessforafairminimumwage.org. "A fair minimum wage is a sound investment in the future of our communities and our nation."
"A fair minimum wage protects the middle class and gives entry level workers some economic breathing room," said Lew Prince, CEO and co-owner of Vintage Vinyl in St. Louis, MO. "When everyone is feeling insecure, rebuilding our economy starts with showing hard-working Americans that their time has value and their work will be rewarded. If we want to put the great American success story back on track, all of us need to feel that we have access to that opportunity."
The statement supporting the minimum wage increase and a List of Signatories By State is available at http://www.businessforafairminimumwage.org/signatories. To arrange interviews with businesspeople, contact Bob Keener at 617-610-6766, bobkeener@comcast.net.
Business for a Fair Minimum Wage is a project of Business for Shared Prosperity, which mobilizes business support for policies that expand opportunity, reduce inequality, promote innovation, entrepreneurship and sustainability, and rebuild our nation's infrastructure for enduring progress.
National Home Price Declines Continue to Improve
Portland-Vancouver-Beaverton Home Prices Decrease
National housing prices fell 9.2 percent in May compared to a year ago representing the smallest year-over-year decline recorded in 2009 and the lowest since December 2007, according to newly released data from First American CoreLogic and its LoanPerformance Home Price Index (HPI). May's decline was a 0.5 percent improvement over the 9.7 percent decline in April.*
In Portland-Vancouver-Beaverton, home prices have decreased 11.16 percent in May compared to a year ago. In April 2009, Portland-Vancouver-Beaverton showed a decrease of 12.16 percent compared to one year prior.
The rate of national price declines for residential single-family detached properties peaked at 11.9 percent in January 2009 and has since improved by over 2.5 percentage points through May. The June preview data suggests further improvements in the rate of decline.
Since U.S. home prices peaked in July 2006, national home prices have declined 20.1 percent on a cumulative basis.
Despite the improvement in the national trend, the geographic breadth of price declines has not improved. Forty-one states experienced price declines, and 16 states had double-digit declines in May, well above the number of states experiencing declines a year ago.
Nevada (-26.4 percent) remained the top-ranked state for annual price depreciation with Florida (-25.5 percent) close behind. California's (-19.8 percent) price trend continued to improve in May and is currently more than 10 percentage points better than the peak decline of 30.3 percent set in August 2008. Arizona (-18.1 percent) and Illinois (-16.9 percent) round out the top five states for price declines. Florida and Illinois are the only two states that are not currently showing signs of moderation or improvement in the declines among states experiencing the largest price decreases.
Over the past few months there has been a divergence in single-family detached residential properties vs. single-family attached residential properties, which include condos and townhomes. As of May, prices of attached properties declined 12.0 percent from a year ago, compared to a 9.2 percent decrease for detached properties. The gap reflects the very weak condo market, tighter underwriting guidelines for this type of property, and the faster run-up in prices for condos during the bubble market.
"Although there has been some improvement in the national HPI, collateral risk will continue to be the main driver of the housing market for the remainder of 2009," said Mark Fleming, chief economist for First American CoreLogic. "Until home prices and the economy stabilize, mortgage performance will continue to worsen and home sales activity will remain flat nationally through 2010."
* April's decline was revised downward from 10.2 percent to 9.7 percent.
Admin Note: Graphs, rankings, and other details can be found here.
National housing prices fell 9.2 percent in May compared to a year ago representing the smallest year-over-year decline recorded in 2009 and the lowest since December 2007, according to newly released data from First American CoreLogic and its LoanPerformance Home Price Index (HPI). May's decline was a 0.5 percent improvement over the 9.7 percent decline in April.*
In Portland-Vancouver-Beaverton, home prices have decreased 11.16 percent in May compared to a year ago. In April 2009, Portland-Vancouver-Beaverton showed a decrease of 12.16 percent compared to one year prior.
The rate of national price declines for residential single-family detached properties peaked at 11.9 percent in January 2009 and has since improved by over 2.5 percentage points through May. The June preview data suggests further improvements in the rate of decline.
Since U.S. home prices peaked in July 2006, national home prices have declined 20.1 percent on a cumulative basis.
Despite the improvement in the national trend, the geographic breadth of price declines has not improved. Forty-one states experienced price declines, and 16 states had double-digit declines in May, well above the number of states experiencing declines a year ago.
Nevada (-26.4 percent) remained the top-ranked state for annual price depreciation with Florida (-25.5 percent) close behind. California's (-19.8 percent) price trend continued to improve in May and is currently more than 10 percentage points better than the peak decline of 30.3 percent set in August 2008. Arizona (-18.1 percent) and Illinois (-16.9 percent) round out the top five states for price declines. Florida and Illinois are the only two states that are not currently showing signs of moderation or improvement in the declines among states experiencing the largest price decreases.
Over the past few months there has been a divergence in single-family detached residential properties vs. single-family attached residential properties, which include condos and townhomes. As of May, prices of attached properties declined 12.0 percent from a year ago, compared to a 9.2 percent decrease for detached properties. The gap reflects the very weak condo market, tighter underwriting guidelines for this type of property, and the faster run-up in prices for condos during the bubble market.
"Although there has been some improvement in the national HPI, collateral risk will continue to be the main driver of the housing market for the remainder of 2009," said Mark Fleming, chief economist for First American CoreLogic. "Until home prices and the economy stabilize, mortgage performance will continue to worsen and home sales activity will remain flat nationally through 2010."
* April's decline was revised downward from 10.2 percent to 9.7 percent.
Admin Note: Graphs, rankings, and other details can be found here.
Columbia River Channel Improvement Project contract awarded Work to begin in mid-August
PORTLAND, Ore. - The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Portland District, awarded the final contract for the Columbia River Channel Improvement Project to J.E. McAmis, Inc., July 17.
The nearly $52 million contract includes $26.6 million of American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funds, along with 2009 appropriated and matching sponsor funds. According to the contractor, the work is estimated to create about 50 new jobs.
Work will begin in mid-August with the removal of 1.7 to 2.5 million cubic yards of material to deepen Columbia River miles 65 to 67, near Longview, Wash. There is also a one mile section of basalt between river miles 87 and 88 near St. Helens, Ore., that must be blasted and then dredged.
The blasting will occur between November 2009 and February 2010, and create between 250,000 and 500,000 cubic yards of material to dredge. The project should be complete by December 2010.
While most of the navigation channel has been deepened from 40 to 43 feet, these portions that are composed of more rock than sediment will be dredged to between 49 and 51 feet to allow for future maintenance using typical dredging equipment.
This work will close out the Columbia River Channel Improvement project, a two decade-long effort to deepen the 103-mile navigation channel allowing larger, deeper draft ships and heavier-loaded vessels access to inland ports throughout the Pacific Northwest.
The Columbia River moves $18 billion of commerce annually, and is the single largest wheat and barley export gateway in the nation.
The nearly $52 million contract includes $26.6 million of American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funds, along with 2009 appropriated and matching sponsor funds. According to the contractor, the work is estimated to create about 50 new jobs.
Work will begin in mid-August with the removal of 1.7 to 2.5 million cubic yards of material to deepen Columbia River miles 65 to 67, near Longview, Wash. There is also a one mile section of basalt between river miles 87 and 88 near St. Helens, Ore., that must be blasted and then dredged.
The blasting will occur between November 2009 and February 2010, and create between 250,000 and 500,000 cubic yards of material to dredge. The project should be complete by December 2010.
While most of the navigation channel has been deepened from 40 to 43 feet, these portions that are composed of more rock than sediment will be dredged to between 49 and 51 feet to allow for future maintenance using typical dredging equipment.
This work will close out the Columbia River Channel Improvement project, a two decade-long effort to deepen the 103-mile navigation channel allowing larger, deeper draft ships and heavier-loaded vessels access to inland ports throughout the Pacific Northwest.
The Columbia River moves $18 billion of commerce annually, and is the single largest wheat and barley export gateway in the nation.
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Curves® Of Vancouver Rolls Out Red Carpet To Silversneakers® Members!
Local fitness club welcomes Healthways SilverSneakers members at no cost
Vancouver, Washington (Grassroots Newswire) July 8th,2009 -- Curves of Vancouver is rolling out the red carpet to members of the award-winning Healthways SilverSneakers Fitness Program, the nation’s leading exercise program designed for older adults. Beginning January 1, 2009, SilverSneakers members are eligible to join Curves of Vancouver at no cost.
"We are so pleased to welcome local SilverSneakers members to Curves of Vancouver," said club owner Shellie Patwell. "As you age, your risks for debilitating disease increase, and being overweight or obese significantly adds to that risk. At Curves of Vancouver, we have programs that help women of all ages do the three most significant things they can do to decrease their risks -- manage their weight, exercise regularly, and eat healthfully."
For more information about Curves of Vancouver, please contact Samantha Loney at 360-256-0205.
There are 6,500 Curves locations and more than 2.5 million women in the U.S. who are eligible for the SilverSneakers program.
For more information about Curves of Vancouver, please contact Samantha Loney at 360-256-0205.
About Curves
Curves works every major muscle group with a complete 30-minute workout that combines strength training and sustained cardiovascular activity through safe and effective hydraulic resistance. Curves also works to help women lose weight, gain muscle strength and aerobic capacity, and raise metabolism with its groundbreaking, scientifically proven method that ends the need for perpetual dieting. Founders Gary and Diane Heavin are considered the innovators of the express fitness phenomenon that has made exercise available to around 4 million women globally, many of whom are in the gym for the first time. With nearly 10,000 locations worldwide, Curves is the world’s largest fitness franchise. For more information, please visit: www.curves.com.
Vancouver, Washington (Grassroots Newswire) July 8th,2009 -- Curves of Vancouver is rolling out the red carpet to members of the award-winning Healthways SilverSneakers Fitness Program, the nation’s leading exercise program designed for older adults. Beginning January 1, 2009, SilverSneakers members are eligible to join Curves of Vancouver at no cost.
"We are so pleased to welcome local SilverSneakers members to Curves of Vancouver," said club owner Shellie Patwell. "As you age, your risks for debilitating disease increase, and being overweight or obese significantly adds to that risk. At Curves of Vancouver, we have programs that help women of all ages do the three most significant things they can do to decrease their risks -- manage their weight, exercise regularly, and eat healthfully."
For more information about Curves of Vancouver, please contact Samantha Loney at 360-256-0205.
There are 6,500 Curves locations and more than 2.5 million women in the U.S. who are eligible for the SilverSneakers program.
For more information about Curves of Vancouver, please contact Samantha Loney at 360-256-0205.
About Curves
Curves works every major muscle group with a complete 30-minute workout that combines strength training and sustained cardiovascular activity through safe and effective hydraulic resistance. Curves also works to help women lose weight, gain muscle strength and aerobic capacity, and raise metabolism with its groundbreaking, scientifically proven method that ends the need for perpetual dieting. Founders Gary and Diane Heavin are considered the innovators of the express fitness phenomenon that has made exercise available to around 4 million women globally, many of whom are in the gym for the first time. With nearly 10,000 locations worldwide, Curves is the world’s largest fitness franchise. For more information, please visit: www.curves.com.
American Heart Association's New Summer Walking Guide Available
Start! Summer Walking Guide Provides Tips to Keep You Moving
Don’t let this summer’s heat melt your resolve to be physically active. You can get started and stay motivated throughout the warm season — with health and safety tips from the American Heart Association’s Start! Summer Walking Guide.
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Don’t let this summer’s heat melt your resolve to be physically active. You can get started and stay motivated throughout the warm season — with health and safety tips from the American Heart Association’s Start! Summer Walking Guide.
<
Follow us on Twitter!
twitter.com/portlandheart
Gov. Gregoire announces federal recovery money to treat crime victims
OLYMPIA – Gov. Chris Gregoire today announced that the Washington State Crime Victims Compensation Program received approximately $938,000 in American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (Recovery Act) funds to help about 1,000 crime victims and reimbursement for services to about 570 health-care providers who treat crime victims. These funds provide benefits to crime victims such as medical care and wage replacement.
“These funds are easing the financial burden that victims of violent crime often face,” said Gov. Gregoire. “I am proud our state acted so quickly with this money, helping victims and their families cover unexpected costs in the aftermath of a crime.”
The Crime Victims Compensation Program, within the Department of Labor & Industries, was created to help victims with the many costs associated with violent crime. As a payer of last resort, the program provides financial compensation for expenses such as medical bills, loss of earnings and funeral expenses. The program also covers examinations after sexual assaults to gather evidence for possible prosecution.
The Crime Victims Compensation Program has received about 9,000 claims in the past year, up 20 percent from the previous year. The majority of claims are related to rape and domestic assault. Nearly 70 percent of victims are women and children.
For more information, visit www.Lni.wa.gov/ClaimsIns/CrimeVictims.
Washington State is administering the federal Recovery Act investments with an unprecedented level of transparency and accountability. Gov. Gregoire created a new Web site (www.recovery.wa.gov) enabling every Washingtonian to see where their tax dollars are going and hold government accountable for the results. On the federal level, President Barack Obama has appointed Vice President Joe Biden to oversee all states' recovery efforts and to root out waste and fraud. This combined oversight will ensure taxpayer dollars are put to good use and recharge the economy.
“These funds are easing the financial burden that victims of violent crime often face,” said Gov. Gregoire. “I am proud our state acted so quickly with this money, helping victims and their families cover unexpected costs in the aftermath of a crime.”
The Crime Victims Compensation Program, within the Department of Labor & Industries, was created to help victims with the many costs associated with violent crime. As a payer of last resort, the program provides financial compensation for expenses such as medical bills, loss of earnings and funeral expenses. The program also covers examinations after sexual assaults to gather evidence for possible prosecution.
The Crime Victims Compensation Program has received about 9,000 claims in the past year, up 20 percent from the previous year. The majority of claims are related to rape and domestic assault. Nearly 70 percent of victims are women and children.
For more information, visit www.Lni.wa.gov/ClaimsIns/CrimeVictims.
Washington State is administering the federal Recovery Act investments with an unprecedented level of transparency and accountability. Gov. Gregoire created a new Web site (www.recovery.wa.gov) enabling every Washingtonian to see where their tax dollars are going and hold government accountable for the results. On the federal level, President Barack Obama has appointed Vice President Joe Biden to oversee all states' recovery efforts and to root out waste and fraud. This combined oversight will ensure taxpayer dollars are put to good use and recharge the economy.
SATURDAY ACADEMY MANUFACTURING CAMP WILL BE AT WSU VANCOUVER THIS SUMMER Posted: July 13th, 2009 1:15 PM
Washington State University Vancouver will host the Saturday Academy manufacturing summer camp workshop. The week-long manufacturing camp will be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday, July 27-31.
Students entering grades eight through 12 will explore manufacturing and mechanical engineering. At the camp, "Mechanical Engineering: Metal Fabrication," students will design, fabricate, and test a Stirling engine while learning metal fabrication techniques working with WSU Vancouver instructor Dave Kim.
Students will explore the world of manufacturing and mechanical engineering, working with state-of-the-art research labs and professional manufacturers in the community.
Funding came from a $5,000 grant from Nuts, Bolts and Thingamajigs (founded by actor John Ratzenberger), the Foundation of the Fabricators and the Manufacturers Association International.
Registration and Academy information is available at http://www.saturdayacademy.org.
WSU Vancouver is celebrating 20 years of bringing quality education, research and service to the citizens of Southwest Washington. The campus is located at 14204 NE Salmon Creek Ave., east of the 134th Street exit from either I-5 or I-205, or via C-Tran bus service. WSU Vancouver offers 16 bachelor's degrees, 10 master's degrees, one doctorate degree and more than 36 fields of study. Learn more at www.vancouver.wsu.edu.
Contact Info: WSU Vancouver Marketing and Communications, 360-546-9602, news@vancouver.wsu.edu
Students entering grades eight through 12 will explore manufacturing and mechanical engineering. At the camp, "Mechanical Engineering: Metal Fabrication," students will design, fabricate, and test a Stirling engine while learning metal fabrication techniques working with WSU Vancouver instructor Dave Kim.
Students will explore the world of manufacturing and mechanical engineering, working with state-of-the-art research labs and professional manufacturers in the community.
Funding came from a $5,000 grant from Nuts, Bolts and Thingamajigs (founded by actor John Ratzenberger), the Foundation of the Fabricators and the Manufacturers Association International.
Registration and Academy information is available at http://www.saturdayacademy.org.
WSU Vancouver is celebrating 20 years of bringing quality education, research and service to the citizens of Southwest Washington. The campus is located at 14204 NE Salmon Creek Ave., east of the 134th Street exit from either I-5 or I-205, or via C-Tran bus service. WSU Vancouver offers 16 bachelor's degrees, 10 master's degrees, one doctorate degree and more than 36 fields of study. Learn more at www.vancouver.wsu.edu.
Contact Info: WSU Vancouver Marketing and Communications, 360-546-9602, news@vancouver.wsu.edu
Friday, July 10, 2009
Downsizers to Meet at Marshall
Vancouver professional organizer Jeff Williams and his company, Simple & Clear, host "Dare to Downsize", Saturday July 18 from 9:00AM to Noon in the Marshall Center’s Elm Room, 1009 East McLoughlin Boulevard in Vancouver from 9:00 AM to noon. Cost is $15.
This intentionally interactive class offers strategies to measure the impact of clutter, work through emotional and sentimental attachments and create a personal 6-step plan to increase open space.
Cost is $15. For more information, directions and registration, call (360) 487-7100 or log on to www.vanclarkparks-rec.org. Request Class # 64962. Walk-ins are welcome.
Simple & Clear is an organizing company that designs solutions for people who want to organize their lives and their businesses. Visit www.simpleclear.biz.
This intentionally interactive class offers strategies to measure the impact of clutter, work through emotional and sentimental attachments and create a personal 6-step plan to increase open space.
Cost is $15. For more information, directions and registration, call (360) 487-7100 or log on to www.vanclarkparks-rec.org. Request Class # 64962. Walk-ins are welcome.
Simple & Clear is an organizing company that designs solutions for people who want to organize their lives and their businesses. Visit www.simpleclear.biz.
WSU Vancouver Received $700,000 Research Grant for Communication Sounds Study
Christine Portfors, associate professor of biology at Washington State University Vancouver, has received a $700,000 grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF) for her Research in Undergraduate Institutions (RUI) project: "Neural Encoding of Behaviorally Relevant Sounds." This research is an important step toward indentifying the neural mechanisms of speech processing. The project began June 1, and it will end on May 31, 2013. It is funded under the American Recovery and Investment Act of 2009 and will provide a variety of training opportunities during this project for undergraduate and graduate students.
"It is not understood how complex sounds are processed and represented in the auditory system," said Portfors. "My goal is to understand how sounds are processed in the brain. The importance of this research is in understanding how the brain has evolved to optimally encode behaviorally relevant sounds."
Many animals communicate with members of their own species using specific sounds called vocalizations. These sounds are relevant to the animal because they facilitate important behaviors such as mating, maintaining a territory or finding offspring. When an animal hears one of these sounds, it must make an appropriate response based on the information in the sound. To do this, the auditory system must detect, discriminate and categorize each of the sounds. The goal of the current project is to understand the strategies and mechanisms that the auditory system uses to achieve these tasks. This research focuses on characterizing the neural mechanisms that underlie encoding these sounds.
Portfors and members of her research team will record naturally occurring vocalizations from mice then playback the sounds to individual neurons in the auditory system to study how the brain processes behaviorally relevant sounds. The vocalizations made by a mouse have similar structures to some human speech sounds, so research in mice is an important step toward identifying the neural mechanism of speech processing in humans.
For more information on Portfors research http://www.vancouver.wsu.edu/fac/portfors/Research.html.
WSU Vancouver is celebrating 20 years of bringing quality education, research and service to the citizens of southwest Washington. The campus is located at 14204 NE Salmon Creek Ave., east of the 134th Street exit from either I-5 or I-205, or via C-Tran bus service. We offer 16 bachelor's degrees, 10 master's degrees, one doctorate degree and more than 36 fields of study. Visit us on the Web at www.vancouver.wsu.edu.
"It is not understood how complex sounds are processed and represented in the auditory system," said Portfors. "My goal is to understand how sounds are processed in the brain. The importance of this research is in understanding how the brain has evolved to optimally encode behaviorally relevant sounds."
Many animals communicate with members of their own species using specific sounds called vocalizations. These sounds are relevant to the animal because they facilitate important behaviors such as mating, maintaining a territory or finding offspring. When an animal hears one of these sounds, it must make an appropriate response based on the information in the sound. To do this, the auditory system must detect, discriminate and categorize each of the sounds. The goal of the current project is to understand the strategies and mechanisms that the auditory system uses to achieve these tasks. This research focuses on characterizing the neural mechanisms that underlie encoding these sounds.
Portfors and members of her research team will record naturally occurring vocalizations from mice then playback the sounds to individual neurons in the auditory system to study how the brain processes behaviorally relevant sounds. The vocalizations made by a mouse have similar structures to some human speech sounds, so research in mice is an important step toward identifying the neural mechanism of speech processing in humans.
For more information on Portfors research http://www.vancouver.wsu.edu/fac/portfors/Research.html.
WSU Vancouver is celebrating 20 years of bringing quality education, research and service to the citizens of southwest Washington. The campus is located at 14204 NE Salmon Creek Ave., east of the 134th Street exit from either I-5 or I-205, or via C-Tran bus service. We offer 16 bachelor's degrees, 10 master's degrees, one doctorate degree and more than 36 fields of study. Visit us on the Web at www.vancouver.wsu.edu.
Camas Days Event Will Have Over 20 New Vendors & Classic Favorites
Camas, WA - On Friday, July 24th and Saturday, July 25th the biggest festival in East Clark County will explode upon the streets of downtown Camas. This year’s theme: Pirates Play will bring out all the scallywags and wenches for the main parade on Saturday at 11 am for a rrrrrrrrrrip rrrrrroaring good time. This year’s event will host a one-hour Pirate Stage Show production by Virtuosity Dance and VEGA Gymnastics, directly to follow the parade in front of City Hall. The Pirate stage show will feature full period costumes, fencing, and a large pirate ship that doubles as a float in the parade.
The Arts & Crafts vendors will line the streets of downtown Camas starting at 10 am until 8 pm on both Friday and Saturday. The food street will hold the same hours and take place on Birch Street between 3rd and 4th avenue. The food street will host over 15 food vendors that range from homemade lamb gyros by Pop-a-Bak, to Hawaiian food - plus your favorites and desserts as far as the eye can see. The Kids Street has a wide range of activities for kids. The caterpillar is for kids under four; the bounce house is for kids over 4 and the fast pitch and rock-climbing wall is perfectly suited for kids 6-12.
The 2009 Camas Days event is all about NEW vendors! We have over 20 new vendors at the event ranging from arts and crafts, commercial to food. To follow are some of our spotlight vendors:
Featured Craft Vendors
Claudette Moe is a brand new arts and crafts vendor for Camas Days. She is an award winning artist that specializes in original wall art, mosaics and acrylic painting on wood and metals. She also creates one-of-a-kind tables. She has been a favorite at the Vancouver Farmers Market and this will be her first time at Camas Days. Claudette "Rusty" Moe (360) 885-0300.
Another brand new vendor is Fishbowl Pottery by Hilda Wiesnmeyer. This outstanding artist creates unique and inspiring wheel thrown and hand built lamps, vases, and decorative pieces. Words cannot describe the original spin she puts on her pieces. This vendor comes to us all the way from Illinois, this could be the only opportunity our community gets to view her work. Hilda Wiesenmeyer 217-429-1933
Mostly Twisted Things, is another new vendor at Camas Days. This arts and crafts vendor works with gems and mineral specimens, rough gem materials, and fossils to create handmade gift items and jewelry. David or Amy Walker (605) 270-9326.
TRIBE, a new vendor to Camas Days is a unique vendor that creates symbolic pendants, Celtic dream bowls, wire-wrapped stone jewelry and original hand painted artwork. They are a local new vendor from Camas. Tara Kloida (360) 521-1294.
Volcano Garden Art has quickly become a favorite at the event. This vendor specializes in unique and whimsical concrete and stone art for gardens, as well as figures and fountains. Tom McCarthy 360-624-7859.
Featured Food Vendors
Pop-a-bak is adding fresh lamb, beef and chicken gyros to her menu of baklava, spanikopita and Greek walnut cake. This vendor is a local Camas resident. Elayne Barlas (360) 834-1042.
A classic favorite, The Oriental Kitchen is back and has been a supporter of Camas Days since 1979!!! This place is practically an institution of Camas Days! Kim Le (360) 803-9114.
Dogzilla Hot Dogs is a local guy who also sells his artisan hot dogs throughout Washougal. Eric DeRoos (360) 852-4923.
Sweet Al's Cook'n is a brand new food vendor to the Camas Days event. On their menu is delicious grilled and marinated chicken. As well as "create your own soda". Allen Stray at 360-571-5813.
The Parade is always a crowd pleaser with entries ranging from floats, classic cars to horses and maybe even a lama or two! Diane Larson and the Summertime Performance Camp are back to defend their Grand Prize honors (they have won four years in a row). This crew of about 28 child performers has created a custom pirate ship float, made by the parents and children. The entry is titled "A Pirates Life for Me". They will have full pirate costumes be singing some hip-hop pirate songs and performing some sward fights. Diane Larson (360) 921-7020.
Richard Mancini, the Teacher of the Year award winner for the Camas School District, has partnered up with Brandy Reed to enter the Camas High School Band and Cheer team into the Camas Days Parade. Most of the band is made up of Camas High School Alumni. Brandy Reed (360) 601-3745.
LJC Feed and Farm Supply, under the direction of Victoria Scott have put an equestrian entry into the parade. Their beautiful horses stood out last year and earned them a 2nd place award in the 2008 Camas Days Parade. Victoria Scott (360) 835-0164.
Scream Entertainment will automatically stand out this year in the Camas Days Parade - their entry is a handmade steel and cloth construction pirate ship, pushed by hand. The costumes and props are provided to them by Captain Henry's Pirate Store at Lloyd Center. Previously, they have won 1st place in the walking division and 3rd in the Float division. Leslie Rick (360) 258-1782.
The Arts & Crafts vendors will line the streets of downtown Camas starting at 10 am until 8 pm on both Friday and Saturday. The food street will hold the same hours and take place on Birch Street between 3rd and 4th avenue. The food street will host over 15 food vendors that range from homemade lamb gyros by Pop-a-Bak, to Hawaiian food - plus your favorites and desserts as far as the eye can see. The Kids Street has a wide range of activities for kids. The caterpillar is for kids under four; the bounce house is for kids over 4 and the fast pitch and rock-climbing wall is perfectly suited for kids 6-12.
The 2009 Camas Days event is all about NEW vendors! We have over 20 new vendors at the event ranging from arts and crafts, commercial to food. To follow are some of our spotlight vendors:
Featured Craft Vendors
Claudette Moe is a brand new arts and crafts vendor for Camas Days. She is an award winning artist that specializes in original wall art, mosaics and acrylic painting on wood and metals. She also creates one-of-a-kind tables. She has been a favorite at the Vancouver Farmers Market and this will be her first time at Camas Days. Claudette "Rusty" Moe (360) 885-0300.
Another brand new vendor is Fishbowl Pottery by Hilda Wiesnmeyer. This outstanding artist creates unique and inspiring wheel thrown and hand built lamps, vases, and decorative pieces. Words cannot describe the original spin she puts on her pieces. This vendor comes to us all the way from Illinois, this could be the only opportunity our community gets to view her work. Hilda Wiesenmeyer 217-429-1933
Mostly Twisted Things, is another new vendor at Camas Days. This arts and crafts vendor works with gems and mineral specimens, rough gem materials, and fossils to create handmade gift items and jewelry. David or Amy Walker (605) 270-9326.
TRIBE, a new vendor to Camas Days is a unique vendor that creates symbolic pendants, Celtic dream bowls, wire-wrapped stone jewelry and original hand painted artwork. They are a local new vendor from Camas. Tara Kloida (360) 521-1294.
Volcano Garden Art has quickly become a favorite at the event. This vendor specializes in unique and whimsical concrete and stone art for gardens, as well as figures and fountains. Tom McCarthy 360-624-7859.
Featured Food Vendors
Pop-a-bak is adding fresh lamb, beef and chicken gyros to her menu of baklava, spanikopita and Greek walnut cake. This vendor is a local Camas resident. Elayne Barlas (360) 834-1042.
A classic favorite, The Oriental Kitchen is back and has been a supporter of Camas Days since 1979!!! This place is practically an institution of Camas Days! Kim Le (360) 803-9114.
Dogzilla Hot Dogs is a local guy who also sells his artisan hot dogs throughout Washougal. Eric DeRoos (360) 852-4923.
Sweet Al's Cook'n is a brand new food vendor to the Camas Days event. On their menu is delicious grilled and marinated chicken. As well as "create your own soda". Allen Stray at 360-571-5813.
The Parade is always a crowd pleaser with entries ranging from floats, classic cars to horses and maybe even a lama or two! Diane Larson and the Summertime Performance Camp are back to defend their Grand Prize honors (they have won four years in a row). This crew of about 28 child performers has created a custom pirate ship float, made by the parents and children. The entry is titled "A Pirates Life for Me". They will have full pirate costumes be singing some hip-hop pirate songs and performing some sward fights. Diane Larson (360) 921-7020.
Richard Mancini, the Teacher of the Year award winner for the Camas School District, has partnered up with Brandy Reed to enter the Camas High School Band and Cheer team into the Camas Days Parade. Most of the band is made up of Camas High School Alumni. Brandy Reed (360) 601-3745.
LJC Feed and Farm Supply, under the direction of Victoria Scott have put an equestrian entry into the parade. Their beautiful horses stood out last year and earned them a 2nd place award in the 2008 Camas Days Parade. Victoria Scott (360) 835-0164.
Scream Entertainment will automatically stand out this year in the Camas Days Parade - their entry is a handmade steel and cloth construction pirate ship, pushed by hand. The costumes and props are provided to them by Captain Henry's Pirate Store at Lloyd Center. Previously, they have won 1st place in the walking division and 3rd in the Float division. Leslie Rick (360) 258-1782.
HOUSING DOWNTURN GIVES DEVELOPERS A RARE CHANCE TO REDRAW COMMUNITIES TO FIT TASTES OF FUTURE CONSUMERS
IRVINE, Calif. - July 10, 2009 —Developers struggling to survive the current historic housing downturn should be retooling their planned communities for shifts in consumer tastes right now so they’ll be ready to thrive when demand returns, stated experts from Developers Research (www.dev-res.com) - national real estate consulting firm.
Barry Gross, president of the Developers Research consulting firm, said his advice can be boiled down to a simple edict: Get ready to start selling homes that people can get excited about again, not just cheap loans that happen to be attached to property.
He said when the housing market was at its hottest in recent years, many customers were more interested in the loan than the home, itself. That meant developers and builders didn’t have to stretch much beyond building homes and communities according to old land-planning templates that were tried and true.
“Now many of those templates just look old -- and tired,” Gross said.
But an unprecedented opportunity exists right now to modify and resubmit stagnant development plans with the sole purpose of increasing the residual value of the land. There are techniques to optimize improvement costs by avoiding unnecessary costs. He said it is also possible to maximize potential lot value while decreasing lot costs.
This shift in thinking has many elements to excite customers: And many will be willing to pay a premium for that excitement. Developers can tap into the trend once they understand the risks and rewards of submitting an improved entitlement to a new discretionary process.
Here are just a few of the shifts in consumer tastes that Gross said developers can leverage into savings:
• Golf course communities are out. New market studies show people would rather have 100 feet of common space behind their 120-foot deep lot in the form of a trail system, rather than a 300 or 400 feet of common space in the form of a golf fairway. That means developers can redraw a community and tap into that customer preference, while at the same time recapturing valuable land for more streets and more home lots.
• Customers are showing a preference for minimalist homeowner association communities. There is a shift away from huge, expensive clubhouses and toward more passive recreational amenities such as parks and open spaces for barbecues and picnics. So land set aside for parks is not a liability. Instead, it is a substitute for luxurious common buildings, and a draw for consumers who will be willing to pay more to live in the community.
• Future consumers will pay more to live on a street with houses on only one side, and doing it that way can actually maximize profits for the developer. So there’s no need to re-channel every creek or pave over every square inch to maximize the “lot-count” in a development.
• More consumers will be interested in living in communities that promote sustainability, walkability and diversity. Sustainable communities are designed to minimize their ecological footprint and achieve a balanced lifestyle for their residents. Pedestrian oriented communities should use traffic circles and context sensitive design. The streetscape should serve a range of users such as pedestrians, bicyclists, transit riders and automobiles. In addition, homes should be centrally located near the heart of the community. Looping trails connect destination points. A diversity of neighborhoods and a variety of parks and gathering places create a cohesive community.
Media outlets interested in this story can arrange an interview with Developers Research President Barry Gross by contacting Anton Communications at 949-748-0542
Barry Gross, president of the Developers Research consulting firm, said his advice can be boiled down to a simple edict: Get ready to start selling homes that people can get excited about again, not just cheap loans that happen to be attached to property.
He said when the housing market was at its hottest in recent years, many customers were more interested in the loan than the home, itself. That meant developers and builders didn’t have to stretch much beyond building homes and communities according to old land-planning templates that were tried and true.
“Now many of those templates just look old -- and tired,” Gross said.
But an unprecedented opportunity exists right now to modify and resubmit stagnant development plans with the sole purpose of increasing the residual value of the land. There are techniques to optimize improvement costs by avoiding unnecessary costs. He said it is also possible to maximize potential lot value while decreasing lot costs.
This shift in thinking has many elements to excite customers: And many will be willing to pay a premium for that excitement. Developers can tap into the trend once they understand the risks and rewards of submitting an improved entitlement to a new discretionary process.
Here are just a few of the shifts in consumer tastes that Gross said developers can leverage into savings:
• Golf course communities are out. New market studies show people would rather have 100 feet of common space behind their 120-foot deep lot in the form of a trail system, rather than a 300 or 400 feet of common space in the form of a golf fairway. That means developers can redraw a community and tap into that customer preference, while at the same time recapturing valuable land for more streets and more home lots.
• Customers are showing a preference for minimalist homeowner association communities. There is a shift away from huge, expensive clubhouses and toward more passive recreational amenities such as parks and open spaces for barbecues and picnics. So land set aside for parks is not a liability. Instead, it is a substitute for luxurious common buildings, and a draw for consumers who will be willing to pay more to live in the community.
• Future consumers will pay more to live on a street with houses on only one side, and doing it that way can actually maximize profits for the developer. So there’s no need to re-channel every creek or pave over every square inch to maximize the “lot-count” in a development.
• More consumers will be interested in living in communities that promote sustainability, walkability and diversity. Sustainable communities are designed to minimize their ecological footprint and achieve a balanced lifestyle for their residents. Pedestrian oriented communities should use traffic circles and context sensitive design. The streetscape should serve a range of users such as pedestrians, bicyclists, transit riders and automobiles. In addition, homes should be centrally located near the heart of the community. Looping trails connect destination points. A diversity of neighborhoods and a variety of parks and gathering places create a cohesive community.
Media outlets interested in this story can arrange an interview with Developers Research President Barry Gross by contacting Anton Communications at 949-748-0542
Senator Murray Announces $23 Million to Weatherize 5,000 Washington State Homes Funding will create jobs and reduce energy costs for families across
Funding will create jobs and reduce energy costs for families across the state
(Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) announced that $23,818,030 has been awarded to Washington state to weatherize 5,000 homes over three years. This program will help to reduce energy consumption and energy bills for Washington state families and will create jobs throughout the state. Senator Murray worked with the Obama administration to include this weatherization funding in the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.
“This funding will allow families across Washington state to reduce their energy costs and will provide a much-needed boost to the economy,” said Senator Patty Murray. “These investments will put men and women to work across the state helping families reduce their energy consumption, save money, and improve the environment.”
The Washington Department of Community, Trade and Economic Development (CTED) will administer the program and allocate funds to community-based non-profit agencies and local government organizations to provide weatherization services to every county and tribal nation in the state. The funding will also go toward training to provide local weatherization technicians with the knowledge and skills necessary to carry out home energy audits and weatherization procedures.
After demonstrating successful implementation of its plan, the state will receive more than $29 million in additional funding, for a total of over $59 million.
As a senior member of the Senate committee overseeing energy funding, Senator Murray worked to ensure that investments in energy efficiency were included in the Recovery Act. Senator Murray voted to pass the Recovery Act on February 13th. The bill was signed into law by President Obama on February 17th.
More information on how families can lower their energy costs can be found at Senator Murray’s One-Stop Economic Resource Center.
Funding will create jobs and reduce energy costs for families across the state
(Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) announced that $23,818,030 has been awarded to Washington state to weatherize 5,000 homes over three years. This program will help to reduce energy consumption and energy bills for Washington state families and will create jobs throughout the state. Senator Murray worked with the Obama administration to include this weatherization funding in the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.
“This funding will allow families across Washington state to reduce their energy costs and will provide a much-needed boost to the economy,” said Senator Patty Murray. “These investments will put men and women to work across the state helping families reduce their energy consumption, save money, and improve the environment.”
The Washington Department of Community, Trade and Economic Development (CTED) will administer the program and allocate funds to community-based non-profit agencies and local government organizations to provide weatherization services to every county and tribal nation in the state. The funding will also go toward training to provide local weatherization technicians with the knowledge and skills necessary to carry out home energy audits and weatherization procedures.
After demonstrating successful implementation of its plan, the state will receive more than $29 million in additional funding, for a total of over $59 million.
As a senior member of the Senate committee overseeing energy funding, Senator Murray worked to ensure that investments in energy efficiency were included in the Recovery Act. Senator Murray voted to pass the Recovery Act on February 13th. The bill was signed into law by President Obama on February 17th.
More information on how families can lower their energy costs can be found at Senator Murray’s One-Stop Economic Resource Center.
(Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) announced that $23,818,030 has been awarded to Washington state to weatherize 5,000 homes over three years. This program will help to reduce energy consumption and energy bills for Washington state families and will create jobs throughout the state. Senator Murray worked with the Obama administration to include this weatherization funding in the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.
“This funding will allow families across Washington state to reduce their energy costs and will provide a much-needed boost to the economy,” said Senator Patty Murray. “These investments will put men and women to work across the state helping families reduce their energy consumption, save money, and improve the environment.”
The Washington Department of Community, Trade and Economic Development (CTED) will administer the program and allocate funds to community-based non-profit agencies and local government organizations to provide weatherization services to every county and tribal nation in the state. The funding will also go toward training to provide local weatherization technicians with the knowledge and skills necessary to carry out home energy audits and weatherization procedures.
After demonstrating successful implementation of its plan, the state will receive more than $29 million in additional funding, for a total of over $59 million.
As a senior member of the Senate committee overseeing energy funding, Senator Murray worked to ensure that investments in energy efficiency were included in the Recovery Act. Senator Murray voted to pass the Recovery Act on February 13th. The bill was signed into law by President Obama on February 17th.
More information on how families can lower their energy costs can be found at Senator Murray’s One-Stop Economic Resource Center.
Funding will create jobs and reduce energy costs for families across the state
(Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) announced that $23,818,030 has been awarded to Washington state to weatherize 5,000 homes over three years. This program will help to reduce energy consumption and energy bills for Washington state families and will create jobs throughout the state. Senator Murray worked with the Obama administration to include this weatherization funding in the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.
“This funding will allow families across Washington state to reduce their energy costs and will provide a much-needed boost to the economy,” said Senator Patty Murray. “These investments will put men and women to work across the state helping families reduce their energy consumption, save money, and improve the environment.”
The Washington Department of Community, Trade and Economic Development (CTED) will administer the program and allocate funds to community-based non-profit agencies and local government organizations to provide weatherization services to every county and tribal nation in the state. The funding will also go toward training to provide local weatherization technicians with the knowledge and skills necessary to carry out home energy audits and weatherization procedures.
After demonstrating successful implementation of its plan, the state will receive more than $29 million in additional funding, for a total of over $59 million.
As a senior member of the Senate committee overseeing energy funding, Senator Murray worked to ensure that investments in energy efficiency were included in the Recovery Act. Senator Murray voted to pass the Recovery Act on February 13th. The bill was signed into law by President Obama on February 17th.
More information on how families can lower their energy costs can be found at Senator Murray’s One-Stop Economic Resource Center.
Clark County Food Bank Nears 3 Million Pounds of Food Distributed This Past Year
The numbers are in for the 2008-2009 fiscal year at the Clark County Stop Hunger Warehouse. Demand for emergency food continues to grow,as the amount of pounds distributed by the warehouse to the local food pantries totaled 2,966,031 pounds.
The cash value of this food amounted to $3,491,593. Three major sources of this total came from two food drives,theWalk and Knock in December and Letter Carriers Drive in
May, along with the Fresh Alliance Program, where local grocery stores donate product to the Food Bank that is near pull date and can be frozen and sent to the mini food pantries for inclusion in the emergency food boxes. This program totaled 345,834 pounds last year, that otherwise would have been discarded.
The Stop Hunger Warehouse, which is currently managed by the Salvation Army, made it possible for over 90,000 emergency food boxes to be provided to needy families, seniors and individuals throughout Clark County. This was made possible by over 110,000 volunteer hours contributed by community members who work at the food pantries, drive trucks to pick up perishables at the grocery stores, and help out with company,civic and church group food drives during the year.
As the demand continues to rise, the Clark County Food Bank is underway with plans to construct a new Food Distribution Center that will expand the size of the facility from its current 8,000 square feet to 22,000 square feet. Cost of this new facility is estimated to be $3.5 million dollars.
For more information on how you can help us to alleviate hunger and its root causes in southwest Washington or to schedule a tour of our current warehouse, contact us at 360-693-0939.
The cash value of this food amounted to $3,491,593. Three major sources of this total came from two food drives,theWalk and Knock in December and Letter Carriers Drive in
May, along with the Fresh Alliance Program, where local grocery stores donate product to the Food Bank that is near pull date and can be frozen and sent to the mini food pantries for inclusion in the emergency food boxes. This program totaled 345,834 pounds last year, that otherwise would have been discarded.
The Stop Hunger Warehouse, which is currently managed by the Salvation Army, made it possible for over 90,000 emergency food boxes to be provided to needy families, seniors and individuals throughout Clark County. This was made possible by over 110,000 volunteer hours contributed by community members who work at the food pantries, drive trucks to pick up perishables at the grocery stores, and help out with company,civic and church group food drives during the year.
As the demand continues to rise, the Clark County Food Bank is underway with plans to construct a new Food Distribution Center that will expand the size of the facility from its current 8,000 square feet to 22,000 square feet. Cost of this new facility is estimated to be $3.5 million dollars.
For more information on how you can help us to alleviate hunger and its root causes in southwest Washington or to schedule a tour of our current warehouse, contact us at 360-693-0939.
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
City of Battle Ground Receives GFOA Award for Budget Presentation
The City of Battle Ground has received the Government Finance Officer Association’s Distinguished Budget Presentation Award for the Fiscal Year beginning January 1, 2009.
The award represents and reflects the commitment of the City of Battle Ground and its staff in meeting the highest principles of government budgeting. In order to receive the award, the City fulfilled nationally recognized guidelines for effective budget presentation which assesses how well the City’s budget serves as a policy document, a financial plan, an operations guide and a communication device.
Mayor Michael Ciraulo presented the award to Finance and Information Services Director Catherine Huber Nickerson at the July 6th Council Meeting, “Ms. Huber Nickerson and the Finance Department staff are to be commended for having achieved this award; it is an example of the standard of excellence we strive for in the City of Battle Ground”.
The 2009-2010 Biennial Budget can be viewed on the City’s website at www.cityofbg.org or by contacting the Finance & Information Services Department at 360-342-5000.
The award represents and reflects the commitment of the City of Battle Ground and its staff in meeting the highest principles of government budgeting. In order to receive the award, the City fulfilled nationally recognized guidelines for effective budget presentation which assesses how well the City’s budget serves as a policy document, a financial plan, an operations guide and a communication device.
Mayor Michael Ciraulo presented the award to Finance and Information Services Director Catherine Huber Nickerson at the July 6th Council Meeting, “Ms. Huber Nickerson and the Finance Department staff are to be commended for having achieved this award; it is an example of the standard of excellence we strive for in the City of Battle Ground”.
The 2009-2010 Biennial Budget can be viewed on the City’s website at www.cityofbg.org or by contacting the Finance & Information Services Department at 360-342-5000.
Most Clark County retailers refuse tobacco sales to minors
VANCOUVER, WA – Most Clark County tobacco retailers are refusing to sell tobacco products to minors. Between July 1, 2008 and June 30, 2009, Clark County Public Health conducted a series of tobacco compliance checks at 163 retail outlets. Twenty-nine locations were randomly selected. For those retailers, the compliance rate was 90 percent. The remaining checks were conducted at retailers that have either sold to minors in the past, or are located near areas frequented by children. The compliance rate for that group was 87 percent. These rates are well within federal requirements, which stipulate that tobacco sales rates to minors be 20 percent or less.
During a compliance check, a minor, accompanied by a county employee, attempts to purchase tobacco. If asked, he or she shows valid identification. Most illegal tobacco sales occur when clerks fail to verify that the minor is 18 years or older. “Either clerks don’t ask for identification or they incorrectly calculate the teen’s age after looking at the identification,” said Theresa Cross, a health educator with Clark County Public Health.
Washington State driver’s licenses read vertically for people under 21 years of age and horizontally for people over 21. “Seeing a vertical license can alert retailers that the customer might not be old enough to buy tobacco,” said Cross.
In Washington State, retailers who sell tobacco to minors can be fined $100 for the first offense. The fine for a clerk is $50. Repeat offenders are fined up to $1,500 and may have their license to sell tobacco products suspended. During this most recent period, six retailers sold tobacco to a minor for the second time. Each owner was fined $300 by the Washington State Liquor Control Board.
As more retailers refuse to sell tobacco to minors, teens are obtaining tobacco from friends, family, and strangers at higher rates than ever. According to the 2006 Washington State Healthy Youth Survey, these minors typically give someone money to purchase the tobacco for them. State law prohibits even family members from giving tobacco to anyone under 18 years of age.
Because most tobacco users pick up the habit as teens, discouraging tobacco use in youth is a public health priority. For more information about tobacco prevention and education programs in Clark County, visit www.clark.wa.gov/health/tobacco. For state information, see http://www.doh.wa.gov/tobacco.
During a compliance check, a minor, accompanied by a county employee, attempts to purchase tobacco. If asked, he or she shows valid identification. Most illegal tobacco sales occur when clerks fail to verify that the minor is 18 years or older. “Either clerks don’t ask for identification or they incorrectly calculate the teen’s age after looking at the identification,” said Theresa Cross, a health educator with Clark County Public Health.
Washington State driver’s licenses read vertically for people under 21 years of age and horizontally for people over 21. “Seeing a vertical license can alert retailers that the customer might not be old enough to buy tobacco,” said Cross.
In Washington State, retailers who sell tobacco to minors can be fined $100 for the first offense. The fine for a clerk is $50. Repeat offenders are fined up to $1,500 and may have their license to sell tobacco products suspended. During this most recent period, six retailers sold tobacco to a minor for the second time. Each owner was fined $300 by the Washington State Liquor Control Board.
As more retailers refuse to sell tobacco to minors, teens are obtaining tobacco from friends, family, and strangers at higher rates than ever. According to the 2006 Washington State Healthy Youth Survey, these minors typically give someone money to purchase the tobacco for them. State law prohibits even family members from giving tobacco to anyone under 18 years of age.
Because most tobacco users pick up the habit as teens, discouraging tobacco use in youth is a public health priority. For more information about tobacco prevention and education programs in Clark County, visit www.clark.wa.gov/health/tobacco. For state information, see http://www.doh.wa.gov/tobacco.
Senator Murray Announces $2 Million for Clean Energy Research on Algae Biofuels
Funding will create jobs, position Washington state as a leader in clean energy technology
(WASHINGTON, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-Wash.), a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced that she has included $2 million for clean energy algae biofuels research at Washington State University in the fiscal year 2010 Energy and Water Development Appropriations bill.
“This funding will support cutting-edge research that will create jobs and continue to position Washington state as a leader in the clean energy economy,” said Senator Patty Murray. “It provides a shot in the arm for Washington state biofuels research, and will help our country move toward cleaner and more efficient energy use.”
The WSU Algae Biofuels project is a partnership between WSU and the Seattle-based Targeted Growth Inc. It will create high-skill jobs in both Pullman and the Puget Sound area and provide researchers with the resources they need to develop new, energy-efficient algal fuel sources. Algae is a particularly promising candidate for fuel use, as its efficiency in capturing solar energy results in higher productivity per unit area than a traditional biofuel energy crop.
“Washington State University is committed to partnering with the clean-technology sector to find innovative solutions for supplying energy and improving environmental quality,” said Howard Grimes, the WSU Vice President for Research and Dean of the Graduate School. “This funding will allow our scholars and partners to apply their knowledge to solve problems and create economic opportunity in the Pacific Northwest and throughout the world.”
The funding was included in the Energy and Water Development fiscal year 2010 spending bill. Having passed the Energy and Water Appropriations Subcommittee today, the bill will now go to the full Appropriations Committee before going to the full Senate for consideration.
(WASHINGTON, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-Wash.), a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced that she has included $2 million for clean energy algae biofuels research at Washington State University in the fiscal year 2010 Energy and Water Development Appropriations bill.
“This funding will support cutting-edge research that will create jobs and continue to position Washington state as a leader in the clean energy economy,” said Senator Patty Murray. “It provides a shot in the arm for Washington state biofuels research, and will help our country move toward cleaner and more efficient energy use.”
The WSU Algae Biofuels project is a partnership between WSU and the Seattle-based Targeted Growth Inc. It will create high-skill jobs in both Pullman and the Puget Sound area and provide researchers with the resources they need to develop new, energy-efficient algal fuel sources. Algae is a particularly promising candidate for fuel use, as its efficiency in capturing solar energy results in higher productivity per unit area than a traditional biofuel energy crop.
“Washington State University is committed to partnering with the clean-technology sector to find innovative solutions for supplying energy and improving environmental quality,” said Howard Grimes, the WSU Vice President for Research and Dean of the Graduate School. “This funding will allow our scholars and partners to apply their knowledge to solve problems and create economic opportunity in the Pacific Northwest and throughout the world.”
The funding was included in the Energy and Water Development fiscal year 2010 spending bill. Having passed the Energy and Water Appropriations Subcommittee today, the bill will now go to the full Appropriations Committee before going to the full Senate for consideration.
City Employees' Union AFSCME Local No. 307VC Endorses Tim Leavitt for Mayor of Vancouver
Vancouver, Washington — The American Federation of State, County and Local Employees (AFSCME Local 307VC) has endorsed Vancouver City Councilman Tim Leavitt for Mayor of Vancouver. Local 307 is the labor union that represents 154 employees working in the City’s Water, Streets, Traffic, and Public Works Departments, as well as the clerical unit of the Law Department.
Ron Fredin, President of Local 307VC and Vice President of the Executive Board of Washington State AFSCME Council 2 says of their endorsement, “Leavitt is truly committed to collaboration and relationship-building, has respect for labor issues, and boasts an unmatched record on advocating for jobs that pay family wage.”
Leavitt joined the Vancouver City Council in 2003 and served on the City’s Planning Commission before that. During his time as a councilman, Tim has regularly attended Labor Roundtable meetings, met individually with union leadership, and held frank discussions about issues affecting both sides of the table.
AFSCME reps cite Leavitt’s dedication to fostering relationships of substance, and looking toward the future of Vancouver. “We’re supporting Tim because he walks the talk,” says Local 307VC member Joe Devlaeminck. “Tim is the candidate who has been building respectful and effective working relationships with us and throughout our community. He is never too busy to listen to our concerns, and he then works with us to try and find solutions that meet everyone’s needs. We intend to work diligently to see him become the next Mayor of Vancouver.”
“Our city employees are passionate about the future of Vancouver,” says Leavitt. “We are in absolute agreement that the City must stop cutting budgets for core services like roads maintenance, traffic control and street light repair, and utility services. It’s time to re-prioritize at City Hall. That is what I’ve been fighting for and one of the reasons why I have received support from the city employees.”
Leavitt has also been endorsed by Amalgamated Transit Union Local No. 757 (C-Tran employees) and has received the informal support of Unite Here Local No. 9 (Hilton Vancouver employees).
Persons interested in volunteering, donating, or learning more may contact the campaign office at 360.609.4846, via email at leavitt4mayor@gmail.com, or by visiting the campaign website at www.leavitt4mayor.com. The campaign also has a Facebook page and group, at “Leavitt4Mayor”.
Ron Fredin, President of Local 307VC and Vice President of the Executive Board of Washington State AFSCME Council 2 says of their endorsement, “Leavitt is truly committed to collaboration and relationship-building, has respect for labor issues, and boasts an unmatched record on advocating for jobs that pay family wage.”
Leavitt joined the Vancouver City Council in 2003 and served on the City’s Planning Commission before that. During his time as a councilman, Tim has regularly attended Labor Roundtable meetings, met individually with union leadership, and held frank discussions about issues affecting both sides of the table.
AFSCME reps cite Leavitt’s dedication to fostering relationships of substance, and looking toward the future of Vancouver. “We’re supporting Tim because he walks the talk,” says Local 307VC member Joe Devlaeminck. “Tim is the candidate who has been building respectful and effective working relationships with us and throughout our community. He is never too busy to listen to our concerns, and he then works with us to try and find solutions that meet everyone’s needs. We intend to work diligently to see him become the next Mayor of Vancouver.”
“Our city employees are passionate about the future of Vancouver,” says Leavitt. “We are in absolute agreement that the City must stop cutting budgets for core services like roads maintenance, traffic control and street light repair, and utility services. It’s time to re-prioritize at City Hall. That is what I’ve been fighting for and one of the reasons why I have received support from the city employees.”
Leavitt has also been endorsed by Amalgamated Transit Union Local No. 757 (C-Tran employees) and has received the informal support of Unite Here Local No. 9 (Hilton Vancouver employees).
Persons interested in volunteering, donating, or learning more may contact the campaign office at 360.609.4846, via email at leavitt4mayor@gmail.com, or by visiting the campaign website at www.leavitt4mayor.com. The campaign also has a Facebook page and group, at “Leavitt4Mayor”.
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
Burgerville Features Gourmet Menu
July gourmet offerings at Burgerville coming this Friday, July 3, will focus on one of our most popular seasonal menu offerings: Walla Walla Sweet Onions. This Friday, Burgerville will begin selling its latest monthly, gourmet menu offerings with the introduction of the Walla Walla Sweet Onion Horseradish Burger and Walla Walla Sweet Onion Summer Side Salad. Don’t forget the Walla Walla Sweet Onion Rings too!
Walla Walla Sweet Onions are pickled in our restaurants. The flavor is surprisingly sweet and light and only growers within the Walla Walla Valley can market Walla Walla Sweet Onions. Burgerville has partnered with the Walla Walla Sweet Onion Growers since 1997. Locati Farms, one of our primary growers, is currently the only Food Alliance certified-sustainable source of Walla Walla Sweet Onions.
Sweet Onion Horseradish Burger: A Country Natural Beef patty with pickled Walla Walla Sweet Onions, tomato, lettuce and horseradish sour cream sauce on a toasted potato bun.
Country Natural Beef: Fresh, never frozen, all natural, pasture-raised beef. Raised on native grasses, seeded pastures and hay. No additives, hormone and antibiotic free beef. Produced by a locally founded co-op of natural beef ranchers.
Horseradish: For almost eighty years and three generations, locally owned and operated, Beaverton Foods has become the largest producer of non-refrigerated horseradish and specialty mustards in the United States.
Potato Buns: Located in NE Portland, Franz Bakery is family owned and operated business serving the Northwest since 1906.
Sweet Onion Summer Side Salad: Tangy pickled Walla Walla Sweet Onions lightly tossed with fresh zucchini and grape tomatoes.
Zucchini: Spanning seven generations, family-owned and operated since 1867, Dickey Farms grows a wide variety of produce on 72 acres in Bingen, Washington in the Columbia River Gorge. No fat or cholesterol, rich in vitamin C.
Pricing
Sweet Onion Horseradish Burger
Burger $3.89 Basket: $6.89
Sweet Onion Summer Salad
A la carte: $2.79 Upgrade in Basket: $1.29
Over the last four decades, Burgerville has become nationally recognized for its innovative approach to quick service and fresh, local, sustainable offerings, winning numerous awards for its revolutionary healthcare, wind power and recycling/composting programs, as well as accolades for its seasonal menu items.
Now, as you know, Burgerville CEO Jeff Harvey is taking Burgerville's approach of offering fresh, locally sourced and sustainably farmed ingredients to the next level, by adding two gourmet, seasonal food combination's to its menu each month that will feature local ingredients at the peak of their freshness sourced from local partners who share the chain's commitment to sustainability.
With these new, seasonal gourmet food items, the chain is answering the demand of their younger guests who want the convenience and cost savings of quick service dining with the quality and uniqueness of a more high-end restaurant. Today’s 20 something’s share Burgerville’s eco-minded sentiments and are looking for healthy dining options, and authentic and diverse menu selections.
Walla Walla Sweet Onions are pickled in our restaurants. The flavor is surprisingly sweet and light and only growers within the Walla Walla Valley can market Walla Walla Sweet Onions. Burgerville has partnered with the Walla Walla Sweet Onion Growers since 1997. Locati Farms, one of our primary growers, is currently the only Food Alliance certified-sustainable source of Walla Walla Sweet Onions.
Sweet Onion Horseradish Burger: A Country Natural Beef patty with pickled Walla Walla Sweet Onions, tomato, lettuce and horseradish sour cream sauce on a toasted potato bun.
Country Natural Beef: Fresh, never frozen, all natural, pasture-raised beef. Raised on native grasses, seeded pastures and hay. No additives, hormone and antibiotic free beef. Produced by a locally founded co-op of natural beef ranchers.
Horseradish: For almost eighty years and three generations, locally owned and operated, Beaverton Foods has become the largest producer of non-refrigerated horseradish and specialty mustards in the United States.
Potato Buns: Located in NE Portland, Franz Bakery is family owned and operated business serving the Northwest since 1906.
Sweet Onion Summer Side Salad: Tangy pickled Walla Walla Sweet Onions lightly tossed with fresh zucchini and grape tomatoes.
Zucchini: Spanning seven generations, family-owned and operated since 1867, Dickey Farms grows a wide variety of produce on 72 acres in Bingen, Washington in the Columbia River Gorge. No fat or cholesterol, rich in vitamin C.
Pricing
Sweet Onion Horseradish Burger
Burger $3.89 Basket: $6.89
Sweet Onion Summer Salad
A la carte: $2.79 Upgrade in Basket: $1.29
Over the last four decades, Burgerville has become nationally recognized for its innovative approach to quick service and fresh, local, sustainable offerings, winning numerous awards for its revolutionary healthcare, wind power and recycling/composting programs, as well as accolades for its seasonal menu items.
Now, as you know, Burgerville CEO Jeff Harvey is taking Burgerville's approach of offering fresh, locally sourced and sustainably farmed ingredients to the next level, by adding two gourmet, seasonal food combination's to its menu each month that will feature local ingredients at the peak of their freshness sourced from local partners who share the chain's commitment to sustainability.
With these new, seasonal gourmet food items, the chain is answering the demand of their younger guests who want the convenience and cost savings of quick service dining with the quality and uniqueness of a more high-end restaurant. Today’s 20 something’s share Burgerville’s eco-minded sentiments and are looking for healthy dining options, and authentic and diverse menu selections.
160th Anniversary of the US Army's Arrival to the Vancouver Barracks Celebrates with Living History Activities-Two Act Play, the Annual Soldier's Bivo
WHO: National Park Service at Fort Vancouver National Historic Site
WHAT: The 160th Anniversary of the US Army's arrival will be celebrated with a number of living history events during this exciting weekend.
Activities will begin with a two act play that covers Pickett’s life from his boyhood in Richmond, Virginia, to his untimely death in the 1870s. For more than 16 years Mike Vouri and folksinger Michael Cohen have been explaining who and why in drama, comedy and song in "The Life and Times of General George E. Pickett” bringing the Victorian-era Army veteran back to life. Vouri, as Pickett, offers a brisk interpretation of the 19th Century United States and its territories through Pickett’s life, which touched almost all of the major themes; while Mr. Cohen plays the banjo and sings period songs. This one time performance in Vancouver will bring to history to life.
The Annual Soldier’s Bivouac and the first Vintage Base Ball Game of the season have again returned sharing the stories of the soldier’s life at the Vancouver Barracks.
The Soldier’s Bivouac brings to light camp and community life for the soldiers of the Vancouver Barracks. Exploring the camps past and present, there will be reenactors from the Civil War era, Indian War era, to present day.
Another season of Vintage Base Ball is back as the 1st Oregon Volunteers compete against the Vancouver Occidentals. The first game of the season, the game will be played by the rules of the 1860’s without gloves and wooden bats. Come cheer your favorite team.
Make an evening of it, by coming to listen to the Whiskey Flats Band play period music prior to the game and see the ladies of the 1860’s try their hand at the new game of the time, croquet. New to the game, ladies will be dressed in their best as they learn the rules of the game as they play.
Hot Dogs and other refreshments will be available for sale; provided by the Restaurant at the Historic Reserve. Interested in a few mementoes, the Fort Vancouver National Historic Reserve Trust will have available for sale base balls of the time, team shirts, and more.
WHERE: "The Life and Times of General George E. Pickett" will be performed at the Foster Auditorium located at Clark College. 1933 Fort Vancouver Way, Vancouver, WA 98663. Soldier’s Bivouac and Base Ball Games take place on the Fort Vancouver Parade Ground. Bivouac will be located just south of the Bandstand and west of the Vancouver National Historic Reserve Visitor Center, 1501 Evergreen Blvd, Vancouver, WA 98661. Base Ball games will be played across the street from The Restaurant on the Historic Reserve in the Historic Grant House at 1101 Officer’s Row Vancouver, WA 98661.
WHEN: Soldier’s Bivouac will be on Saturday and Sunday, July 18 & 19, 2009 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Whiskey Flats Band Concert and Ladies Croquet will be on Saturday, July 18 at 5:00 p.m. and Vintage Base Ball at Saturday, July 18 at 6:00 p.m. Events are free of charge.
COSTS: All activities are free, including entrance into the Fort in conjunction with its Free Fee Day initiative. As part of the National Park Service's initiative, the organization wants to reinforce that national parks are places for everyone to have fun, reconnect with nature and history and build a sense of ownership and stewardship toward parks and the environment. Entrance fees will be waived during this weekend as well as on August 15 & 16.
For additional information about this and other special events offered by the National Park Service at the Fort Vancouver National Historic Site, please visit our website www.nps.gov/fova or call the Visitor Center at 360. 816.6230.
Background: Fort Vancouver National Historic Site, a unit of the National Park Service, is the heart of the Vancouver National Historic Reserve. The Vancouver National Historic Reserve brings together a national park, a premier archaeological site, the region's first military post, an international fur trade emporium, one of the oldest operating airfields, the first national historic site west of the Mississippi River, and a waterfront trail and environmental center on the banks of the Columbia River. The partners of the Reserve teach visitors about the fur trade, early military life, natural history, and pioneers in aviation, all within the context of Vancouver’s role in regional and national development. The Reserve's vast array of public programs -- including living history events, festivals, cultural demonstrations, exhibits, active archaeology, and other special activities -- create a dynamic, fun, and unique tourist destination for people of all ages.
WHAT: The 160th Anniversary of the US Army's arrival will be celebrated with a number of living history events during this exciting weekend.
Activities will begin with a two act play that covers Pickett’s life from his boyhood in Richmond, Virginia, to his untimely death in the 1870s. For more than 16 years Mike Vouri and folksinger Michael Cohen have been explaining who and why in drama, comedy and song in "The Life and Times of General George E. Pickett” bringing the Victorian-era Army veteran back to life. Vouri, as Pickett, offers a brisk interpretation of the 19th Century United States and its territories through Pickett’s life, which touched almost all of the major themes; while Mr. Cohen plays the banjo and sings period songs. This one time performance in Vancouver will bring to history to life.
The Annual Soldier’s Bivouac and the first Vintage Base Ball Game of the season have again returned sharing the stories of the soldier’s life at the Vancouver Barracks.
The Soldier’s Bivouac brings to light camp and community life for the soldiers of the Vancouver Barracks. Exploring the camps past and present, there will be reenactors from the Civil War era, Indian War era, to present day.
Another season of Vintage Base Ball is back as the 1st Oregon Volunteers compete against the Vancouver Occidentals. The first game of the season, the game will be played by the rules of the 1860’s without gloves and wooden bats. Come cheer your favorite team.
Make an evening of it, by coming to listen to the Whiskey Flats Band play period music prior to the game and see the ladies of the 1860’s try their hand at the new game of the time, croquet. New to the game, ladies will be dressed in their best as they learn the rules of the game as they play.
Hot Dogs and other refreshments will be available for sale; provided by the Restaurant at the Historic Reserve. Interested in a few mementoes, the Fort Vancouver National Historic Reserve Trust will have available for sale base balls of the time, team shirts, and more.
WHERE: "The Life and Times of General George E. Pickett" will be performed at the Foster Auditorium located at Clark College. 1933 Fort Vancouver Way, Vancouver, WA 98663. Soldier’s Bivouac and Base Ball Games take place on the Fort Vancouver Parade Ground. Bivouac will be located just south of the Bandstand and west of the Vancouver National Historic Reserve Visitor Center, 1501 Evergreen Blvd, Vancouver, WA 98661. Base Ball games will be played across the street from The Restaurant on the Historic Reserve in the Historic Grant House at 1101 Officer’s Row Vancouver, WA 98661.
WHEN: Soldier’s Bivouac will be on Saturday and Sunday, July 18 & 19, 2009 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Whiskey Flats Band Concert and Ladies Croquet will be on Saturday, July 18 at 5:00 p.m. and Vintage Base Ball at Saturday, July 18 at 6:00 p.m. Events are free of charge.
COSTS: All activities are free, including entrance into the Fort in conjunction with its Free Fee Day initiative. As part of the National Park Service's initiative, the organization wants to reinforce that national parks are places for everyone to have fun, reconnect with nature and history and build a sense of ownership and stewardship toward parks and the environment. Entrance fees will be waived during this weekend as well as on August 15 & 16.
For additional information about this and other special events offered by the National Park Service at the Fort Vancouver National Historic Site, please visit our website www.nps.gov/fova or call the Visitor Center at 360. 816.6230.
Background: Fort Vancouver National Historic Site, a unit of the National Park Service, is the heart of the Vancouver National Historic Reserve. The Vancouver National Historic Reserve brings together a national park, a premier archaeological site, the region's first military post, an international fur trade emporium, one of the oldest operating airfields, the first national historic site west of the Mississippi River, and a waterfront trail and environmental center on the banks of the Columbia River. The partners of the Reserve teach visitors about the fur trade, early military life, natural history, and pioneers in aviation, all within the context of Vancouver’s role in regional and national development. The Reserve's vast array of public programs -- including living history events, festivals, cultural demonstrations, exhibits, active archaeology, and other special activities -- create a dynamic, fun, and unique tourist destination for people of all ages.
Oregon Employment Dept. SURVEY OF EMPLOYERS REVEALS "GREENING" OF OREGON'S ECONOMY
Oregon had an estimated 51,402 green jobs in 2008, according to the new Oregon Employment Department report The Greening of Oregon's Workforce: Jobs, Wages, and Training.
The report, based on a survey of employers, found that green jobs accounted for three percent of Oregon's private, state government, and local government employment. Green jobs were reported in all broad industry groups and were spread across 226 occupations.
The survey defines a green job as one that provides a service or produces a product in:
1. Increasing energy efficiency
2. Producing renewable energy
3. Preventing, reducing, or mitigating environmental degradation
4. Cleaning up and restoring the natural environment
5. Providing education, consulting, policy promotion, accreditation, trading and offsets, or similar services supporting categories 1-4
The three industries with the most green jobs were construction, wholesale and retail trade, and administrative and waste services. Combined, these industries accounted for 47 percent of Oregon's green jobs.
The five occupations with the most green jobs were carpenters, farmworkers, truck drivers, hazardous materials removal workers, and landscaping and groundskeeping workers. Together these workers represented 27 percent of Oregon's green jobs.
The average wage for green jobs in 2008 was $22.61 per hour. On average, green jobs tended toward slightly higher wages than jobs across the entire economy. Occupations with higher minimum education requirements generally paid higher wages than occupations with little or no required education.
Minimum education requirements for green jobs closely mirrored requirements for all jobs statewide. Nearly two-thirds of all green jobs require no more than a high school education, seven percent require some college, seven percent require an associate degree, 18 percent require a bachelor's or graduate degree, and four percent required other education. But as is true in the rest of the economy, high-wage green jobs are more likely to require post-secondary education.
Nearly one-third of green jobs required a special license or certificate. The most common special requirements were specific to occupations, such as an electrician's license. Other common requirements were environmental cleanup or abatement certifications, equipment operator licenses and commercial driver's licenses, and prior on-the-job experience.
Employers project the number of green jobs will grow 14 percent between 2008 and 2010. Most growth will likely be in the farming, fishing, and forestry occupations, transportation and material moving occupations, and production occupations.
The report was funded, in part, with Employer Workforce Training Funds administered by the Oregon Department of Community Colleges and Workforce Development.
The full report is available on-line at http://www.qualityinfo.org/pubs/green/greening.pdf. Printed copies will be available soon. To request a printed copy, please e-mail lmipubs.emp.@state.or.us or call phone (503) 947-1204.
The report, based on a survey of employers, found that green jobs accounted for three percent of Oregon's private, state government, and local government employment. Green jobs were reported in all broad industry groups and were spread across 226 occupations.
The survey defines a green job as one that provides a service or produces a product in:
1. Increasing energy efficiency
2. Producing renewable energy
3. Preventing, reducing, or mitigating environmental degradation
4. Cleaning up and restoring the natural environment
5. Providing education, consulting, policy promotion, accreditation, trading and offsets, or similar services supporting categories 1-4
The three industries with the most green jobs were construction, wholesale and retail trade, and administrative and waste services. Combined, these industries accounted for 47 percent of Oregon's green jobs.
The five occupations with the most green jobs were carpenters, farmworkers, truck drivers, hazardous materials removal workers, and landscaping and groundskeeping workers. Together these workers represented 27 percent of Oregon's green jobs.
The average wage for green jobs in 2008 was $22.61 per hour. On average, green jobs tended toward slightly higher wages than jobs across the entire economy. Occupations with higher minimum education requirements generally paid higher wages than occupations with little or no required education.
Minimum education requirements for green jobs closely mirrored requirements for all jobs statewide. Nearly two-thirds of all green jobs require no more than a high school education, seven percent require some college, seven percent require an associate degree, 18 percent require a bachelor's or graduate degree, and four percent required other education. But as is true in the rest of the economy, high-wage green jobs are more likely to require post-secondary education.
Nearly one-third of green jobs required a special license or certificate. The most common special requirements were specific to occupations, such as an electrician's license. Other common requirements were environmental cleanup or abatement certifications, equipment operator licenses and commercial driver's licenses, and prior on-the-job experience.
Employers project the number of green jobs will grow 14 percent between 2008 and 2010. Most growth will likely be in the farming, fishing, and forestry occupations, transportation and material moving occupations, and production occupations.
The report was funded, in part, with Employer Workforce Training Funds administered by the Oregon Department of Community Colleges and Workforce Development.
The full report is available on-line at http://www.qualityinfo.org/pubs/green/greening.pdf. Printed copies will be available soon. To request a printed copy, please e-mail lmipubs.emp.@state.or.us or call phone (503) 947-1204.
Leading by Example: Eight Lessons for Leaders Striving to Pull Their Companies Out of the Red
Though the forecast for the economy is starting to improve, the plight of recession-weary businesses is still difficult. If you're struggling to find a way to motivate your employees when offering money isn't an option, Charles Garcia has some advice for you: Focus on becoming a great leader. There are few things your employees will appreciate more.
New York, NY (June 2009)—After months of economic tough times, a glimmer of light is starting to appear at the end of the proverbial tunnel. Rather than being harbingers of doom, economic news stories are now starting to look ever so slightly brighter. This improved economic forecast will likely have many company leaders looking for ways to motivate their employees to keep up the hard work necessary for navigating their companies into calmer waters. Unfortunately, despite the recent economic uptick, most company leaders still can't offer what they view as their greatest motivational bargaining chip with their employees—the almighty dollar.
Fear not, says Charles Garcia. Money isn't the only way to rally your troops and boost morale during this crucial time. In fact, he says, positive, strong leadership can often garner far greater results than offering money or other perks ever could.
"Too often businesses assume that offering more money is the only way to motivate employees," says Garcia, former White House Fellow and author of Leadership Lessons of the White House Fellows: Learn How to Inspire Others, Achieve Greatness, and Find Success in Any Organization (McGraw-Hill, 2009, ISBN: 978-0-07-159848-4, $24.95). "The reality is that employees value having strong leaders, who motivate them to do their best, just as much if not more. And there's no greater defense against a tough economy than a workforce motivated to do their absolute best."
As an alum of the White House Fellowship program, one of the most prestigious leadership programs in the country, Garcia knows the value of quality leadership.
"There's never been a more appropriate time for the rest of us to look to great leaders for inspiration," says Garcia. "The lessons that can be learned from the White House Fellows mentors are universal and absolutely invaluable to any business leader smart enough to heed them.
"Remember, all the money in the world won't keep a hardworking but unhappy employee with your company," he adds. "But follow the leadership principles that help you better motivate and encourage that employee and she will be just as invested in making your company a success as you are."
Using insightful, firsthand accounts from past program participants, Garcia's book explores the leadership lessons that former White House Fellows said they took away from their year working under some of the best of the best in Washington, D.C.
Leadership Lessons of the White House Fellows includes twenty timeless tenets of successful leadership, each illustrated by multiple inspiring anecdotes. Here are eight lessons from some of the nation's greatest leaders:
LEADERSHIP LESSON #1: Energize your people. Your employees have just helped you pull your company through one of the nation's worst economic periods. They've been constantly bombarded with bad news in their own lives and in their work lives. It's time they had a source of positive energy. Who better for them to turn to for that kind of encouragement than you, their leader? Instead of being the type of leader who sucks the energy away from others, resolve to be the kind of leader who strives to bring passion and positive energy to the workplace every day.
THE STORY BEHIND THE LESSON: John Patrick Gallagher
U.S. Major John Patrick Gallagher (WHF 07-08) learned about leadership from General David Petraeus. General Petraeus was a colonel in the 82nd Airborne Division at the same time Gallagher was assigned to the division as a second lieutenant. One day Petraeus called his brigade together and asked them who could tell him the number one leadership priority of the brigade. The answers ranged from integrity to professional and tactical competence to marksmanship until finally someone hit the nail on the head. The answer? Physical fitness.
"We all thought he was kidding, and we couldn't for the life of us figure out how that could be the number one priority in the brigade," recalled Gallagher. "But we learned later that he was right. Self-discipline and being able to perform under pressure and exist outside our comfort zone would be the key that unlocked our success."
Petraeus began leading his troops through seventy-five minutes of intense exercise every morning. And with every pull-up, push-up, and sprint, the brigade became more alert, had more physical and mental energy, and more individual and team pride.
"All those other things we wanted to do well got better, whether it was marksmanship or vehicle maintenance or soldiers going on leave and not getting arrested for DUI," Gallagher said. "All these other indicators went up when Petraeus created this climate of self-discipline. He boiled down his leadership approach to this: Am I giving my subordinates energy or am I taking it away? Put another way, am I leading in a way that causes my subordinates to be more enthusiastic and creative about doing their jobs—to believe more deeply in what they are doing and why they are doing it—or am I leading in such a way that it is stifling growth and enthusiasm? If the latter is true, the job may still get done by the sheer force of your legitimacy or presence, but it doesn't get done as well and it doesn't last after you're gone. Petraeus knows how to lead in such a way that it gives his subordinates energy. That's an incredibly powerful leadership tool."
Since leaving his Fellowship, Gallagher has been using that tool daily in his role as Director for the War of Ideas and Strategic Communications at the National Security Council's Office of Iraq and Afghanistan Affairs.
LEADERSHIP LESSON #2: There's more to life than work. Great leaders have deep reserves of physical, spiritual, and emotional energy, and that energy is usually fueled by a strong and supportive relationship with the people they love, regular exercise, a healthy lifestyle, and setting aside time for reflection.
Sure, you want your employees to stay focused on moving your company forward, and you might feel like it's important to keep everyone's noses (including your own!) to the grindstone right now, but it's also summer time. There are barbecues and baseball games to attend, warm days to be spent at the park or by the pool, and much-earned vacation time waiting to be used! Encourage your employees to spend time with their families, whether it results from taking an afternoon off or going on a week-long vacation. Doing so will help them power up for the difficult work to come. And remember to give yourself the same respect!
THE STORY BEHIND THE LESSON: Doris Kearns Goodwin
At 6:00 a.m. on a cold January morning in 1973, presidential historian, Pulitzer Prize-winning author, and NBC news analyst Doris Kearns Goodwin (WHF 67-68) received a call from former President Lyndon B. Johnson, with whom she had become a trusted confidante while working on his memoirs.
"He told me to get married, have children, and spend time with them," Goodwin said. "He talked about how he should have spent more time with his family, because that's a different and more worthy kind of posterity than the public one that he had been seeking throughout his entire political career. That would be our last conversation, because he died of a heart attack two days later—but what a wonderful thing to leave me with."
Goodwin heeded Johnson's words. For example, she turned down the chance to be considered for the position of head of the Peace Corps during the Carter administration because she knew it would require her to travel often and be away from her young children. Over the years she's concluded that those who live the richest lives manage to achieve a healthy balance of work, love, and play.
"To commit yourself to just one of those spheres without the others is to leave open an older age filled with sadness, because once the work is gone, you have nothing left—no hobbies, no sports," Goodwin said. "Your family may love you, but they are not in the center of your life as they might have been had you paid attention to them all the way through. And I always argue that the ability to relax and replenish your energy is absolutely essential."
LEADERSHIP LESSON #3: Put your people first. No organization is better than the people who run it. The fact is that you are in the people business—the business of hiring, training, and managing people to deliver the product or service you provide. If the people are the engine of your success, to be a great leader you need to attend to your people with a laserlike focus.
THE STORY BEHIND THE LESSON: Mitchell Reiss
Mitchell Reiss (WHF 88-89) has seen firsthand that a leader's focus on his or her people is an incredibly powerful tool. He learned that valuable lesson during his White House Fellowship from his principal, the National Security Advisor and former Secretary of State and former White House Fellow Colin Powell.
"Two weeks after I started my Fellowship, there was a picnic over the weekend for the National Security Council staff and their families," Reiss recalled. "We got there promptly, but General Powell was already there helping set up, helping cook the burgers and hot dogs, and personally greeting every single person, not just on the staff but their families. He came over to me and knew not only my name but introduced himself to my wife, Elisabeth, and thanked her for allowing me to work the hours that I worked at the NSC. He told her she should feel that she is part of the NSC family as well.
"That very brief but very personal interaction with Powell had an extraordinary impact on her. After he left, she turned to me and said, 'You better do a good job for that man. If you need to stay late at work, I will never complain.' That's the sort of transformative impact that leadership can have, and I was able to see it up close and personal with Colin Powell. This lesson was invaluable when I later worked at the State Department, where I tried to replicate this sense of teamwork and compassion."
LEADERSHIP LESSON #4: Act with integrity. In a time when news reports are filled with the stories of private and public leaders who've acted inappropriately and have gone against the best interests of their employees or constituents, showing your employees that you value integrity can help motivate them and create a sense of pride for your organization.
Remember, the actions of great leaders are consistent with their words. Saying the right thing doesn't mean much. Doing the right thing means everything when you want people to follow you passionately. By acting with honor and integrity, you build trust with your followers.
THE STORY BEHIND THE LESSON: Dennis Blair
During his Fellowship, Dennis Blair (WHF 75-76)—current Director of National Intelligence, former Commander-in-Chief of the U.S. Pacific Fleet, retired four-star navy admiral, and former Rhodes Scholar—was one of a group of special assistants to Housing and Urban Development Secretary Carla Hills. He witnessed how Secretary Hills fought to maintain an honest, aboveboard environment despite ample opportunities for duplicity.
"The Department of Housing and Urban Development has been rocked by one scandal after another over the years," Blair explained. "It moves a lot of money around and sends it down to the local level, where things can get pretty raw...There's just a lot of potential for corruption, but one of the leadership lessons I took away from that assignment was from the tone that Carla Hills set. She was fiercely, unflinchingly determined to do the right thing and never batted an eye about it. Whenever misconduct came to light, she dealt with it quickly and effectively, firing people if necessary and then moving on."
During Blair's year in Washington, President Ford was up for reelection. The president and his cabinet, including Hills, were under intense pressure to run a winning campaign. Although everyone's job was at stake, Blair saw no one abuse his or her power or resort to cheap tactics to influence the election.
"Carla Hills never came in and said, 'We're in trouble in Ohio. I want to push some Section 8 money toward Ohio, and I want a big publicity drive so we can turn out a lot of votes there.'" Blair said. "There was none of that. They played by the rules and fought fair and always tried to do the right thing."
During his own career, Blair had several opportunities to "shade his principles" for his own benefit, but chose not to. On at least one occasion, doing the right thing cost him dearly. Although he couldn't provide details, he did reveal that because of his leadership role he had a shot at becoming vice chairman or even chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. To be considered for one of those jobs, he would have had to modify his philosophy and change his leadership style to please a new administration. He chose to stick with the methods and values he had developed throughout his career.
"It wasn't that difficult a decision," he said. "Certainly I would have relished the chance to make more of a difference in that higher position, but I was not willing to change my philosophy or my style. I had too much confidence in my approach to change it even though I knew that meant I wasn't going to move up further in the organization."
LEADERSHIP LESSON #5: Be a great communicator. If your employees aren't heeding your advice or company protocols, the problem likely lies with you, not them. Are you using the methods of communication they prefer? Are your messages clear and easy to understand? Leadership is about influencing others, and this cannot be achieved without the ability to communicate. If you're struggling with communicating to your employees, first work on your ability to influence individuals by choosing words that are impactful to carry your message. Then you need to figure out how to communicate to a larger audience.
Remember to be open and honest with your employees. Communicate to them how the economy is affecting the company and where you would like to take it in the future. And always keep in mind that your actions truly speak louder than your words.
THE STORY BEHIND THE LESSON: Marsha "Marty" Evans
After learning the value of quality communication from her Fellowship principal, U.S. Treasury Secretary William "Bill" Miller, Marsha "Marty" Evans (WHF 79-80) carried on the tradition in her work with the Navy.
In 1986, former Fellow and Naval Academy Superintendent Chuck Larson (WHF 68-69) tapped Evans to be one of six battalion officers at the Naval Academy—the first female battalion officer in Navy history—placing her in charge of the training and well-being of hundreds of midshipmen. The academy was meant to be a place of discipline and decorum, but occasionally a lower classman would slip up by wearing nonregulation clothing. When Evans saw a third classman in a Budweiser t-shirt one day, she assumed there had been a breakdown in communication.
"I remember the lecture so well," Evans recalled. "I said, 'You know, my own basic leadership belief is that people generally want to do the right thing, and if they're not doing the right thing it's because they haven't been trained properly. They haven't somehow had the benefit of the teaching and the leadership of their seniors. So, I can only come to the conclusion that this youngster is wearing this t-shirt because he has suffered from faulty communication by his midshipman chain of command.' Each person in the third classman's chain of command was held accountable and punished."
Evans's commonsense approach to encouraging better communication in her organization helped her create a more cohesive team and also garnered the Navy's attention. She was promoted steadily throughout her thirty-year career and retired as a two-star rear admiral, one of only a few women to attain the rank. Since leaving the military, Evans has used her outstanding communication skills in her roles as director of the Girl Scouts of the USA and president and CEO of the American Red Cross.
LEADERSHIP LESSON #6: Be a great listener. The most effective leaders are the ones who take the time to listen not just to their team members' words but to the priceless hidden meaning beneath them. Remember that during good times and bad, sometimes your employees just need someone to talk to. Communicate to them that you are always waiting with open ears.
THE STORY BEHIND THE LESSON: Cesar Aristeiguieta
Cesar Aristeiguieta (WHF 02-03) was assigned to work with Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Tommy Thompson during his Fellowship. It wasn't long before the young White House Fellow noticed an important leadership trait in his principal that he hoped to nurture in himself: Secretary Thompson was an outstanding listener.
One example of this came during a meeting with food industry executives who were brought in by Secretary Thompson to discuss their role in the rise in childhood obesity. The executives essentially told Thompson that the government should stay out of their business.
After listening to them for almost an hour, Aristeiguieta recalls that Thompson responded with the following: "'I've heard you. I understand your concerns. Now I need you to tell me how you, as an industry, can help address this public health issue.' Then he just sat back and listened again. Pretty soon they were talking about how they could step up and participate without being forced into it—how they could begin putting more healthy food choices on their menus and those kinds of things—and by the end of the meeting the tone had changed dramatically. They weren't attacking the secretary anymore. They were actually pleased, and they felt that they were part of the dialogue, and in fact, they probably went further than the secretary really expected them to go at that point.
"From that meeting I learned the value of listening. I've tried to incorporate that into my own leadership style in my work as director of emergency medical services and disaster preparedness for Emergent Medical Associates and also in my role as an assistant professor in emergency medicine at the University of California-Davis."
LEADERSHIP LESSON #7: Be a problem solver. Several years ago Garcia returned from a business trip to find that his assistant had hung a gigantic fifteen-foot-long wooden sign above his office door. The sign reads, "Don't Bring Me Problems. Bring Me Solutions."
He suggests that you post a similar sign and then set about the task of guiding each person on your team toward the goal of becoming a top-notch problem solver during this crucial period. Sure, it takes time and effort to teach problem-solving strategies to your people, but when you experience the payoff, you'll know it was an investment worth making.
THE STORY BEHIND THE LESSON: Julia Vadala Taft
In 1975, President Gerald Ford chose former White House Fellow Julia Vadala Taft (WHF 70-71) to direct the resettlement of refugees from Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos after the collapse of Saigon. The resettlement program brought 131,000 refugees to the U.S. in six months. There was no template and no time plan. The work just had to get done, and Taft directed it all with humor, grace, and a backbone of steel.
During her career as a public servant, Taft helped reshape the Refugee Act of 1980, and helped organize relief for the people of war-torn and disaster-ridden countries throughout the world, including 25 million flood victims left homeless in Bangladesh, displaced people in Burundi, victims of a poison gas incident in Cameroon, the people of the Sahel and Ethiopia who were suffering from a widespread famine after a locust plague, and 800,000 refugees driven from Kosovo.
When she died from colon cancer in 2008, former White House Fellow and longtime friend Colin Powell was quoted in the New York Times obituary section as saying that Julia Taft "was an image of American openness and generosity. Her professional life was committed to people trying to get by on a dollar a day, those who are hungry, without clean water, without medicine, without homes."
Taft's obituary in the Washington Post on March 19 stated, "It was her ability to bring order to chaos—plus her willingness to get on a plane, helicopter, jeep, or riverboat to go almost anywhere that enabled her to make a difference. Whether in the White House, a refugee camp, or meeting with government and [nongovernmental organization] officials, she knew how to get people moving."
LEADERSHIP LESSON #8: Lead through experience and competence, not through title or position. For more than four decades, by pairing young people with established leaders, the White House Fellows program has given hundreds of young Americans the tools, experiences, and mentors necessary for them to become confident, well-prepared problem solvers and leaders.
And if you want to survive the tough economy, that's exactly the kind of leadership motif you'll adopt for your organization. Mentor your employees, encourage them, make partners out of them, and your organization is sure to benefit.
THE STORY BEHIND THE LESSON: Arthur "Gene" Dewey
The ability to help propelled Arthur "Gene" Dewey (WHF 68-69) from his post as assistant to a high-ranking military officer into a White House Fellowship at the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). Dewey's principal at USAID, Bill Gaud, put him right to work. He sent Dewey to Nigeria where USAID was spending a great deal of money supporting those caught up in the Nigerian-Biafran war, and Gaud wanted to make sure all of the supplies were getting through.
Dewey found that the Nigerian Air Force was shooting down relief planes during the night airlifts, and so he hatched a plan to get food in by using a combination of sealift and riverboats. He presented the idea to Clyde Ferguson, President Nixon's special representative for Nigeria-Biafra at the State Department. Ferguson asked him to come work for him for a couple of weeks on what was dubbed the Cross River Scheme.
With no previous experience coordinating large-scale relief efforts, Dewey set about the task of making the project safer and more efficient. As the efforts to bring relief to the people of Biafra—just over 3 million people fell under the plan—continued, Dewey became more involved in the diplomacy required to set up a formal, enduring procedure for getting food and other supplies to the Biafrans. Unfortunately, the Biafran leader, Governor Ojukwu, refused to accept the plan even though it was clearly designed to benefit his people. Ferguson and Dewey were heartbroken.
Then Dewey had a fateful meeting with an initially very negative Catholic bishop on the island. The bishop complained that the U.S. was not doing enough to help the Biafrans. Dewey informed him that Ojukwu was the one holding up the agreement while his people suffered. He then explained the Cross River plan to the bishop, whose attitude gradually softened. The conversation closed with the bishop promising that when Ojukwu came to confession later that week, he would have a talk with him and get him to change his mind.
Dewey was skeptical. But just a couple of days later, after he had arrived back in New York, he received a call telling him that General Ojukwu would accept the proposal.
Dewey says that the greatest leadership lesson he learned from his White House Fellowship was the necessity of being prepared and becoming an expert. His title as a White House Fellow meant virtually nothing as he designed and tried to execute the Cross River plan in Nigeria. What counted were his expertise and his attitude.
"Just because the economy has been slow and businesses have experienced set-backs, does not mean the fundamentals of leadership need to change," says Garcia. "The leadership qualities espoused by mentors in the White House Fellows program translate perfectly to the workplaces and the government offices of 2009 America. Decide today to start motivating your employees by being the best leader you can be and you'll all go far, despite the bad economy."
New York, NY (June 2009)—After months of economic tough times, a glimmer of light is starting to appear at the end of the proverbial tunnel. Rather than being harbingers of doom, economic news stories are now starting to look ever so slightly brighter. This improved economic forecast will likely have many company leaders looking for ways to motivate their employees to keep up the hard work necessary for navigating their companies into calmer waters. Unfortunately, despite the recent economic uptick, most company leaders still can't offer what they view as their greatest motivational bargaining chip with their employees—the almighty dollar.
Fear not, says Charles Garcia. Money isn't the only way to rally your troops and boost morale during this crucial time. In fact, he says, positive, strong leadership can often garner far greater results than offering money or other perks ever could.
"Too often businesses assume that offering more money is the only way to motivate employees," says Garcia, former White House Fellow and author of Leadership Lessons of the White House Fellows: Learn How to Inspire Others, Achieve Greatness, and Find Success in Any Organization (McGraw-Hill, 2009, ISBN: 978-0-07-159848-4, $24.95). "The reality is that employees value having strong leaders, who motivate them to do their best, just as much if not more. And there's no greater defense against a tough economy than a workforce motivated to do their absolute best."
As an alum of the White House Fellowship program, one of the most prestigious leadership programs in the country, Garcia knows the value of quality leadership.
"There's never been a more appropriate time for the rest of us to look to great leaders for inspiration," says Garcia. "The lessons that can be learned from the White House Fellows mentors are universal and absolutely invaluable to any business leader smart enough to heed them.
"Remember, all the money in the world won't keep a hardworking but unhappy employee with your company," he adds. "But follow the leadership principles that help you better motivate and encourage that employee and she will be just as invested in making your company a success as you are."
Using insightful, firsthand accounts from past program participants, Garcia's book explores the leadership lessons that former White House Fellows said they took away from their year working under some of the best of the best in Washington, D.C.
Leadership Lessons of the White House Fellows includes twenty timeless tenets of successful leadership, each illustrated by multiple inspiring anecdotes. Here are eight lessons from some of the nation's greatest leaders:
LEADERSHIP LESSON #1: Energize your people. Your employees have just helped you pull your company through one of the nation's worst economic periods. They've been constantly bombarded with bad news in their own lives and in their work lives. It's time they had a source of positive energy. Who better for them to turn to for that kind of encouragement than you, their leader? Instead of being the type of leader who sucks the energy away from others, resolve to be the kind of leader who strives to bring passion and positive energy to the workplace every day.
THE STORY BEHIND THE LESSON: John Patrick Gallagher
U.S. Major John Patrick Gallagher (WHF 07-08) learned about leadership from General David Petraeus. General Petraeus was a colonel in the 82nd Airborne Division at the same time Gallagher was assigned to the division as a second lieutenant. One day Petraeus called his brigade together and asked them who could tell him the number one leadership priority of the brigade. The answers ranged from integrity to professional and tactical competence to marksmanship until finally someone hit the nail on the head. The answer? Physical fitness.
"We all thought he was kidding, and we couldn't for the life of us figure out how that could be the number one priority in the brigade," recalled Gallagher. "But we learned later that he was right. Self-discipline and being able to perform under pressure and exist outside our comfort zone would be the key that unlocked our success."
Petraeus began leading his troops through seventy-five minutes of intense exercise every morning. And with every pull-up, push-up, and sprint, the brigade became more alert, had more physical and mental energy, and more individual and team pride.
"All those other things we wanted to do well got better, whether it was marksmanship or vehicle maintenance or soldiers going on leave and not getting arrested for DUI," Gallagher said. "All these other indicators went up when Petraeus created this climate of self-discipline. He boiled down his leadership approach to this: Am I giving my subordinates energy or am I taking it away? Put another way, am I leading in a way that causes my subordinates to be more enthusiastic and creative about doing their jobs—to believe more deeply in what they are doing and why they are doing it—or am I leading in such a way that it is stifling growth and enthusiasm? If the latter is true, the job may still get done by the sheer force of your legitimacy or presence, but it doesn't get done as well and it doesn't last after you're gone. Petraeus knows how to lead in such a way that it gives his subordinates energy. That's an incredibly powerful leadership tool."
Since leaving his Fellowship, Gallagher has been using that tool daily in his role as Director for the War of Ideas and Strategic Communications at the National Security Council's Office of Iraq and Afghanistan Affairs.
LEADERSHIP LESSON #2: There's more to life than work. Great leaders have deep reserves of physical, spiritual, and emotional energy, and that energy is usually fueled by a strong and supportive relationship with the people they love, regular exercise, a healthy lifestyle, and setting aside time for reflection.
Sure, you want your employees to stay focused on moving your company forward, and you might feel like it's important to keep everyone's noses (including your own!) to the grindstone right now, but it's also summer time. There are barbecues and baseball games to attend, warm days to be spent at the park or by the pool, and much-earned vacation time waiting to be used! Encourage your employees to spend time with their families, whether it results from taking an afternoon off or going on a week-long vacation. Doing so will help them power up for the difficult work to come. And remember to give yourself the same respect!
THE STORY BEHIND THE LESSON: Doris Kearns Goodwin
At 6:00 a.m. on a cold January morning in 1973, presidential historian, Pulitzer Prize-winning author, and NBC news analyst Doris Kearns Goodwin (WHF 67-68) received a call from former President Lyndon B. Johnson, with whom she had become a trusted confidante while working on his memoirs.
"He told me to get married, have children, and spend time with them," Goodwin said. "He talked about how he should have spent more time with his family, because that's a different and more worthy kind of posterity than the public one that he had been seeking throughout his entire political career. That would be our last conversation, because he died of a heart attack two days later—but what a wonderful thing to leave me with."
Goodwin heeded Johnson's words. For example, she turned down the chance to be considered for the position of head of the Peace Corps during the Carter administration because she knew it would require her to travel often and be away from her young children. Over the years she's concluded that those who live the richest lives manage to achieve a healthy balance of work, love, and play.
"To commit yourself to just one of those spheres without the others is to leave open an older age filled with sadness, because once the work is gone, you have nothing left—no hobbies, no sports," Goodwin said. "Your family may love you, but they are not in the center of your life as they might have been had you paid attention to them all the way through. And I always argue that the ability to relax and replenish your energy is absolutely essential."
LEADERSHIP LESSON #3: Put your people first. No organization is better than the people who run it. The fact is that you are in the people business—the business of hiring, training, and managing people to deliver the product or service you provide. If the people are the engine of your success, to be a great leader you need to attend to your people with a laserlike focus.
THE STORY BEHIND THE LESSON: Mitchell Reiss
Mitchell Reiss (WHF 88-89) has seen firsthand that a leader's focus on his or her people is an incredibly powerful tool. He learned that valuable lesson during his White House Fellowship from his principal, the National Security Advisor and former Secretary of State and former White House Fellow Colin Powell.
"Two weeks after I started my Fellowship, there was a picnic over the weekend for the National Security Council staff and their families," Reiss recalled. "We got there promptly, but General Powell was already there helping set up, helping cook the burgers and hot dogs, and personally greeting every single person, not just on the staff but their families. He came over to me and knew not only my name but introduced himself to my wife, Elisabeth, and thanked her for allowing me to work the hours that I worked at the NSC. He told her she should feel that she is part of the NSC family as well.
"That very brief but very personal interaction with Powell had an extraordinary impact on her. After he left, she turned to me and said, 'You better do a good job for that man. If you need to stay late at work, I will never complain.' That's the sort of transformative impact that leadership can have, and I was able to see it up close and personal with Colin Powell. This lesson was invaluable when I later worked at the State Department, where I tried to replicate this sense of teamwork and compassion."
LEADERSHIP LESSON #4: Act with integrity. In a time when news reports are filled with the stories of private and public leaders who've acted inappropriately and have gone against the best interests of their employees or constituents, showing your employees that you value integrity can help motivate them and create a sense of pride for your organization.
Remember, the actions of great leaders are consistent with their words. Saying the right thing doesn't mean much. Doing the right thing means everything when you want people to follow you passionately. By acting with honor and integrity, you build trust with your followers.
THE STORY BEHIND THE LESSON: Dennis Blair
During his Fellowship, Dennis Blair (WHF 75-76)—current Director of National Intelligence, former Commander-in-Chief of the U.S. Pacific Fleet, retired four-star navy admiral, and former Rhodes Scholar—was one of a group of special assistants to Housing and Urban Development Secretary Carla Hills. He witnessed how Secretary Hills fought to maintain an honest, aboveboard environment despite ample opportunities for duplicity.
"The Department of Housing and Urban Development has been rocked by one scandal after another over the years," Blair explained. "It moves a lot of money around and sends it down to the local level, where things can get pretty raw...There's just a lot of potential for corruption, but one of the leadership lessons I took away from that assignment was from the tone that Carla Hills set. She was fiercely, unflinchingly determined to do the right thing and never batted an eye about it. Whenever misconduct came to light, she dealt with it quickly and effectively, firing people if necessary and then moving on."
During Blair's year in Washington, President Ford was up for reelection. The president and his cabinet, including Hills, were under intense pressure to run a winning campaign. Although everyone's job was at stake, Blair saw no one abuse his or her power or resort to cheap tactics to influence the election.
"Carla Hills never came in and said, 'We're in trouble in Ohio. I want to push some Section 8 money toward Ohio, and I want a big publicity drive so we can turn out a lot of votes there.'" Blair said. "There was none of that. They played by the rules and fought fair and always tried to do the right thing."
During his own career, Blair had several opportunities to "shade his principles" for his own benefit, but chose not to. On at least one occasion, doing the right thing cost him dearly. Although he couldn't provide details, he did reveal that because of his leadership role he had a shot at becoming vice chairman or even chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. To be considered for one of those jobs, he would have had to modify his philosophy and change his leadership style to please a new administration. He chose to stick with the methods and values he had developed throughout his career.
"It wasn't that difficult a decision," he said. "Certainly I would have relished the chance to make more of a difference in that higher position, but I was not willing to change my philosophy or my style. I had too much confidence in my approach to change it even though I knew that meant I wasn't going to move up further in the organization."
LEADERSHIP LESSON #5: Be a great communicator. If your employees aren't heeding your advice or company protocols, the problem likely lies with you, not them. Are you using the methods of communication they prefer? Are your messages clear and easy to understand? Leadership is about influencing others, and this cannot be achieved without the ability to communicate. If you're struggling with communicating to your employees, first work on your ability to influence individuals by choosing words that are impactful to carry your message. Then you need to figure out how to communicate to a larger audience.
Remember to be open and honest with your employees. Communicate to them how the economy is affecting the company and where you would like to take it in the future. And always keep in mind that your actions truly speak louder than your words.
THE STORY BEHIND THE LESSON: Marsha "Marty" Evans
After learning the value of quality communication from her Fellowship principal, U.S. Treasury Secretary William "Bill" Miller, Marsha "Marty" Evans (WHF 79-80) carried on the tradition in her work with the Navy.
In 1986, former Fellow and Naval Academy Superintendent Chuck Larson (WHF 68-69) tapped Evans to be one of six battalion officers at the Naval Academy—the first female battalion officer in Navy history—placing her in charge of the training and well-being of hundreds of midshipmen. The academy was meant to be a place of discipline and decorum, but occasionally a lower classman would slip up by wearing nonregulation clothing. When Evans saw a third classman in a Budweiser t-shirt one day, she assumed there had been a breakdown in communication.
"I remember the lecture so well," Evans recalled. "I said, 'You know, my own basic leadership belief is that people generally want to do the right thing, and if they're not doing the right thing it's because they haven't been trained properly. They haven't somehow had the benefit of the teaching and the leadership of their seniors. So, I can only come to the conclusion that this youngster is wearing this t-shirt because he has suffered from faulty communication by his midshipman chain of command.' Each person in the third classman's chain of command was held accountable and punished."
Evans's commonsense approach to encouraging better communication in her organization helped her create a more cohesive team and also garnered the Navy's attention. She was promoted steadily throughout her thirty-year career and retired as a two-star rear admiral, one of only a few women to attain the rank. Since leaving the military, Evans has used her outstanding communication skills in her roles as director of the Girl Scouts of the USA and president and CEO of the American Red Cross.
LEADERSHIP LESSON #6: Be a great listener. The most effective leaders are the ones who take the time to listen not just to their team members' words but to the priceless hidden meaning beneath them. Remember that during good times and bad, sometimes your employees just need someone to talk to. Communicate to them that you are always waiting with open ears.
THE STORY BEHIND THE LESSON: Cesar Aristeiguieta
Cesar Aristeiguieta (WHF 02-03) was assigned to work with Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Tommy Thompson during his Fellowship. It wasn't long before the young White House Fellow noticed an important leadership trait in his principal that he hoped to nurture in himself: Secretary Thompson was an outstanding listener.
One example of this came during a meeting with food industry executives who were brought in by Secretary Thompson to discuss their role in the rise in childhood obesity. The executives essentially told Thompson that the government should stay out of their business.
After listening to them for almost an hour, Aristeiguieta recalls that Thompson responded with the following: "'I've heard you. I understand your concerns. Now I need you to tell me how you, as an industry, can help address this public health issue.' Then he just sat back and listened again. Pretty soon they were talking about how they could step up and participate without being forced into it—how they could begin putting more healthy food choices on their menus and those kinds of things—and by the end of the meeting the tone had changed dramatically. They weren't attacking the secretary anymore. They were actually pleased, and they felt that they were part of the dialogue, and in fact, they probably went further than the secretary really expected them to go at that point.
"From that meeting I learned the value of listening. I've tried to incorporate that into my own leadership style in my work as director of emergency medical services and disaster preparedness for Emergent Medical Associates and also in my role as an assistant professor in emergency medicine at the University of California-Davis."
LEADERSHIP LESSON #7: Be a problem solver. Several years ago Garcia returned from a business trip to find that his assistant had hung a gigantic fifteen-foot-long wooden sign above his office door. The sign reads, "Don't Bring Me Problems. Bring Me Solutions."
He suggests that you post a similar sign and then set about the task of guiding each person on your team toward the goal of becoming a top-notch problem solver during this crucial period. Sure, it takes time and effort to teach problem-solving strategies to your people, but when you experience the payoff, you'll know it was an investment worth making.
THE STORY BEHIND THE LESSON: Julia Vadala Taft
In 1975, President Gerald Ford chose former White House Fellow Julia Vadala Taft (WHF 70-71) to direct the resettlement of refugees from Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos after the collapse of Saigon. The resettlement program brought 131,000 refugees to the U.S. in six months. There was no template and no time plan. The work just had to get done, and Taft directed it all with humor, grace, and a backbone of steel.
During her career as a public servant, Taft helped reshape the Refugee Act of 1980, and helped organize relief for the people of war-torn and disaster-ridden countries throughout the world, including 25 million flood victims left homeless in Bangladesh, displaced people in Burundi, victims of a poison gas incident in Cameroon, the people of the Sahel and Ethiopia who were suffering from a widespread famine after a locust plague, and 800,000 refugees driven from Kosovo.
When she died from colon cancer in 2008, former White House Fellow and longtime friend Colin Powell was quoted in the New York Times obituary section as saying that Julia Taft "was an image of American openness and generosity. Her professional life was committed to people trying to get by on a dollar a day, those who are hungry, without clean water, without medicine, without homes."
Taft's obituary in the Washington Post on March 19 stated, "It was her ability to bring order to chaos—plus her willingness to get on a plane, helicopter, jeep, or riverboat to go almost anywhere that enabled her to make a difference. Whether in the White House, a refugee camp, or meeting with government and [nongovernmental organization] officials, she knew how to get people moving."
LEADERSHIP LESSON #8: Lead through experience and competence, not through title or position. For more than four decades, by pairing young people with established leaders, the White House Fellows program has given hundreds of young Americans the tools, experiences, and mentors necessary for them to become confident, well-prepared problem solvers and leaders.
And if you want to survive the tough economy, that's exactly the kind of leadership motif you'll adopt for your organization. Mentor your employees, encourage them, make partners out of them, and your organization is sure to benefit.
THE STORY BEHIND THE LESSON: Arthur "Gene" Dewey
The ability to help propelled Arthur "Gene" Dewey (WHF 68-69) from his post as assistant to a high-ranking military officer into a White House Fellowship at the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). Dewey's principal at USAID, Bill Gaud, put him right to work. He sent Dewey to Nigeria where USAID was spending a great deal of money supporting those caught up in the Nigerian-Biafran war, and Gaud wanted to make sure all of the supplies were getting through.
Dewey found that the Nigerian Air Force was shooting down relief planes during the night airlifts, and so he hatched a plan to get food in by using a combination of sealift and riverboats. He presented the idea to Clyde Ferguson, President Nixon's special representative for Nigeria-Biafra at the State Department. Ferguson asked him to come work for him for a couple of weeks on what was dubbed the Cross River Scheme.
With no previous experience coordinating large-scale relief efforts, Dewey set about the task of making the project safer and more efficient. As the efforts to bring relief to the people of Biafra—just over 3 million people fell under the plan—continued, Dewey became more involved in the diplomacy required to set up a formal, enduring procedure for getting food and other supplies to the Biafrans. Unfortunately, the Biafran leader, Governor Ojukwu, refused to accept the plan even though it was clearly designed to benefit his people. Ferguson and Dewey were heartbroken.
Then Dewey had a fateful meeting with an initially very negative Catholic bishop on the island. The bishop complained that the U.S. was not doing enough to help the Biafrans. Dewey informed him that Ojukwu was the one holding up the agreement while his people suffered. He then explained the Cross River plan to the bishop, whose attitude gradually softened. The conversation closed with the bishop promising that when Ojukwu came to confession later that week, he would have a talk with him and get him to change his mind.
Dewey was skeptical. But just a couple of days later, after he had arrived back in New York, he received a call telling him that General Ojukwu would accept the proposal.
Dewey says that the greatest leadership lesson he learned from his White House Fellowship was the necessity of being prepared and becoming an expert. His title as a White House Fellow meant virtually nothing as he designed and tried to execute the Cross River plan in Nigeria. What counted were his expertise and his attitude.
"Just because the economy has been slow and businesses have experienced set-backs, does not mean the fundamentals of leadership need to change," says Garcia. "The leadership qualities espoused by mentors in the White House Fellows program translate perfectly to the workplaces and the government offices of 2009 America. Decide today to start motivating your employees by being the best leader you can be and you'll all go far, despite the bad economy."
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