“When for too long I don’t go deep enough into the woods to see them, they begin to enter my dreams. Yes, there they are, in the pinewoods of my inner life. I want to live a life full of modesty and praise. Each hoof of each animal makes the sign of a heart as it touches then lifts away from the ground. Unless you believe that heaven is very near, how will you find it? Their eyes are pools in which one would be content, on any summer afternoon to swim away through the door of the world. Then, love and its blessing. Then: heaven."
-Mary Oliver
I feel it has been far too long since I have written and given all of you supporters an update on all the happenings.
As summer teases us with days of sunshine then rain, I still smile when I drive by our new “spray pools” and see the babies and little kids running and playing. Ahhhh, to have that pure joy again! I did get a taste of that pure joy Saturday night at the West Linn Street Dance. It was a fabulous event and I hope all of you plan to attend next year.
Some summer fun approaching is the West Linn Old Time Fair starting Friday night July 17th through Sunday July 19th. Also, on Saturday July 18th I am sponsoring the West Linn Blueberry Festival being held at the Unity Church on HY 43 from 10am to 3pm. Come by and get some delicious fresh blueberries and stay for music and blueberry desserts.
Regarding city business, now is the time to go to the city website and weigh in on the Solar Highway . The city council is looking for your opinion on having the world’s largest solar highway in West Linn . All the particulars are listed on the website and I hope to hear from you on what your thoughts are about this important decision.
Our Economic Task Force is near up and running but I am so sad to see so many fine businesses closing in West Linn . Blue Sage, Booster Juice, Bales and others will be missed. I am passing on another friendly reminder to shop local whenever possible. Any help we can give our local businesses can make a difference.
On Monday July 13th the city council will hopefully pass a temporary sign ordinance to allow Realtors and others a chance to advertise more freely.
Summer is always a slow time in West Linn as lots of people are on vacation. What are your summer plans? In mid August my husband and I are going on a road trip to Idaho and Canada . I’m looking forward to it. If you are planning on being around this summer I encourage you to look online for the over 30 events the city is offering for summer fun. There is something for everyone.
And, don’t forget the most fun event coming on August 29th. This will be the 3rd annual WOOFSTOCK event for pooches and their owners. We’ll be at Mary S. Young Park again from 10am to 3pm with lots of fun and activities.
Charity is important to me and I have found West Linner ’s to be some of the most generous. This summer let’s look to some unique ways to give. How about looking to your own yards and removing all invasive species? I removed most all the blackberry but still have oodles of ivy. If you are social and adventurous, why not organize a block effort.
You can always go from your yard to any of our local parks and pull ivy, etc. Speaking of parks, all of our parks depend on you to maintain them and keep them clean. Don’t be afraid to pick up litter, pull weeds or offer to do bigger jobs through our parks and recreation department.
I know many of you have vegetable gardens. Don’t forget the West Linn food bank when your zucchini out grows your stomach! The food bank is always short on fresh fruit and vegetables as they are always in demand and so very appreciated.
This also seems like the best summer to reach out. We all know people and families that have been struggling with the economic down turn. Stopping by with coffee from Starbucks or goodies from the bakery at Market of Choice just might be one of the most appreciated gifts to give.
As I wrap up I can tell you that we are still working hard on the Stafford Basin issue and sometime towards the end of the year we will know the final designations.
We are holding our breath waiting to hear if we are going to acquire the beautiful Savanna Oaks property off Tannler Dr . Cross your fingers and say a prayer. If we are successful, there will be a great celebration that you’ll all have a VIP invitation to.
As we look ahead, we promise a ballot measure for finally getting our new police station and soon after a chance to vote on the Aquatic Center both in 2010.
Let me know if I can help with anything or what fun things you are experiencing in our great little town.
And as Emily Dickinson said: To live is so startling it leaves little time for anything else.
Have a great summer and keep in touch.
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