Community Corner
🌱West Linn Polar Plunge + Mayor Beaty's 2021 Recap
The quickest way to get caught up on the most important things happening today in Beaverton.
Welcome to 2022, people of Beaverton! Here's what's happening today, this first day of a fresh new year.
First, today's weather:
Cold with a thick cloud cover. High: 34 Low: 26.
Here are the top stories in Beaverton today:
- School starts on Monday for Beaverton School District, and a BSD rep says they'll be sticking to the original quarantine period despite the recent CDC change. That means a 10-day quarantine for presumptive or positive COVID cases and test-to-stay policies for unvaccinated students who've been exposed. The BSD spokesperson, Shellie Bailey-Shah, says that the district will continue following Oregon Department of Education guidelines. (OPB News)
- A scary multi-car crash in Sherwood on Thursday evening left multiple people injured. Tualatin Valley Fire and Rescue says one individual had to be extracted from a vehicle, and LifeFlight was activated to take them to a hospital. The crash occurred on Roy Rogers Road at Elsner Road. Officials have not yet released details regarding the condition of those involved. (KATU)
- Here's more news about the Washington County flavored tobacco ban that goes into effect today: Alma McCarty reports that the new ordinance means at least one local business is closing its doors for good. But Washington County's tobacco prevention coordinator, Gwyn Ashcom, isn't feeling sorry. Read her statement and get the rest of the story at KGW.com.
- Number 2 Beaverton knocked off Number 1 Clackamas on the final day of the Pacific Office Automation Holiday Classic. The Cavaliers had been garnering much of the attention at the tournament, but that didn't earn them the win against the now 7-1 Beavers. Instead, Alex Tam reports that the definitive win by the Beaverton girls may just give them the confidence they need heading into Metro league play. (scorebooklive.com)
- Hear more about Mayor Beaty's estimation that "Beaverton had a great year" over at Pamplin Media Group (click here for free access via your WCCLS card or click here if you have a paid subscription). Challenges that Beaty pointed to were the quest to find a spot for a permanent homeless shelter (the project is well funded but lacks an ideal location) and transitioning to a council/manager government style. Beaty's hopes for 2022 include improved availability of COVID-19 testing and legislation that ensures better access to cooling for tenants during heatwaves, such as the one we experienced last summer.
Today in Beaverton:
- Willamette River Polar Plunge - Take a jaunt to the Bernert Landing Boat Ramp in West Linn for a "refreshing" splash in the Willamette River, followed by music, a warm fire and complimentary sweet treats with Emcee Drew Carney. (12:00 PM)
- Historic Homes Walking Tour (street views only) - Slabtown Tours LLC invites you to meet up at Jim and Patty's in Northwest Portland for an exploration of the treasures of the Alphabet Historic District. (2:30 PM - 4:30 PM)
- "Snowman Snowfall" Canvas Painting Lesson @ Live Laugh Love Art (9160 SW Hall Blvd) - Arrive 15 minutes early to prep for an all-materials provided guided painting lesson (drinks on hand for purchase). $32.50. (4:00 PM - 6:00 PM)
- Chris Margolin - Head to Garage Door at McMenamin's Grand Lodge to hear a singer/songwriter. Free, 21 and over. (7:00 PM - 10:00 PM)
From my notebook:
- Get 2021 in review from local arts scene-makers, Tualatin Valley Creates, who moved into their first non-virtual office in downtown Beaverton late in the year. (Instagram)
- Start 2022 off on the right foot with free access to Oregon State Parks. The agency is waiving parking and admission fees to all 25 state-run parks today, January 1. (KOIN)
- Beaverton City Library reminds folks that if you're in need of reading material, you'll have to look elsewhere today. The two city libraries are closed on January 1. (Facebook)
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Alrighty, you're all caught up for today! I'll see you back in your inbox tomorrow morning with your next update.
— Ash DeMello
About me: Check out my profile at the Beaverton Downtown Association's blog or follow me on Instagram (you'll be one of eight!).