Community News May 2026

The Sunset Apollo Marching Band and Auxiliary (SAMBA) Parent Club is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization that supports all of the comprehensive band and color guard programs available at Sunset High School. SAMBA is resuming our monthly fundraising collection on June 13. Find out more information on our calendar.

Join us for a free family event as law enforcement K9 teams compete for first place! The Washington County K9 Trials is a fun-filled family event hosted by the Washington County Sheriff’s Office and Sheriff’s Office Foundation, where law enforcement K9 teams compete for the top spot. The event provides an excellent opportunity for the public to learn about the K9 units protecting our communities. In addition to the entertaining K9 competitions, spectators can enjoy our community and vendor fairs, as well as a meet-and-greet with K9s after the event. We hope to see you there!

We’re hosting a free yard sale, a simple way to pass along things you don’t need any more and find something you might actually use. Everything is free. No selling, no prices. Bring items to give, come take a look, or both. Find more details and sign up online. There’s going to be a lot of good stuff to go around. See you there!

Join us in downtown Hillsboro for our next Animal Services Academy. The goal of this free training is to help community members understand how Washington County Animal Services and the Bonnie Hays Animal Shelter work, as well as to empower people to share animal-related resources and information with friends, neighbors, and online networks. Attending the academy is also the first step for those interested in volunteering with us! Can’t make it this time? Keep an eye on the Washington County Animal Tales Newsletter for future opportunities. Registration is required. Learn more on the website, and register here.

Washington County Disability, Aging and Veteran Services is hosting a spring resource fair for family and friend caregivers. Connect with over 20 local resources, support services, and community partners dedicated to helping you care for your aging loved ones. You can explore educational materials, meet experts, and discover programs designed to support you in caregiving. Plus, three 30-minute educational sessions on a variety of topics. Whether you are just starting out as a family caregiver or have been providing care for many years, this event is for you. Learn more online.

“Time for You” is for unpaid family caregivers residing in Washington County who are caring for an older adult age 60+, or younger with a dementia-related diagnosis. It is a chance to relax, reflect and rejuvenate. Participants will be able to reflect on challenges and the importance of self-care, receive song care from Portland Threshold Singers, share and connect with other caregivers, explore community resources, and breathe and relax. Lunch is provided. Space is limited, and registration is required. Register online or call 971-997-6063. The retreat is organized by Mind Care NW, facilitated by Gemma Kim and Leslie Cook, and sponsored by Washington County Disability, Aging and Veteran Services, with funding provided by the Older Americans Act.

The Oak Hills Excellence Corp is a new club run by Oak Hills Elementary School PTO. It is comprised of community members, grandparents, and neighbors who are committed to actively supporting the academic and social needs of the students of Oak Hills Elementary School. The focus of this group is on empty-nesters and retirees, but anyone interested in meeting regularly to serve our kids and engage in community together is welcome. Stop in to learn more!

This month, we focus on bicycle safety reminders, emphasizing the importance of shared road usage and safety awareness for both cyclists and drivers.

May is National Bike Safety Month! As we enter spring and summer, many are getting their bicycles ready for commuting, exercise, or just fun. No matter the purpose, the Sheriff’s Office wants to remind everyone of important safety tips for riding bikes or scooters. We encourage all riders to practice safe habits at all times.

Always wear a properly fitted bike helmet. Oregon law requires those under 16 to wear a helmet, though everyone is encouraged to do so to avoid head injuries in the event of an accident. Find out more on proper fitting from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Wear bright clothing during the day and reflective gear (white front light and red rear light) at night or when visibility is poor. Ride a bike that fits you; it is harder to control if too big or too small. Always maintain one rider per seat and use both hands on the handlebars, except when signaling a turn. Free yourself from distractions that take your eyes, ears, or mind off the road, such as texting or listening to music. Follow all traffic laws, including yielding the right-of-way. Bicyclists on the roadway must follow the same rules and responsibilities as motorists. Obey street signs, signals, and road markings.

Leave space for bicyclists and only pass when safe to do so, allowing at least three feet of clearance and never on corners or blind spots. When turning, look to the right and behind you to avoid hitting a bicycle approaching. Use extra care as they may be harder to see. Learn more about bicycle safety here.

Dan Forester is the Elections Manager for Washington County. He manages a team of permanent staff and temporary workers that are responsible for maintaining voter registration records for over 400,000 voters, printing and mailing of ballot packets, verifying signatures, processing returned ballots, scanning and tabulating ballots, and certifying the official results of each election.

Dan will present a behind-the-scenes look at the work that elections administrators perform and share some things that all voters should know about the process. We’ll learn about the election timeline, how security and transparency are built into every aspect of the process, and opportunities that you have to learn more and even participate in the election process.

smart charging timer

Portland General is encouraging electric vehicle (EV) drivers to enroll in the Smart Charging program that not only comes with rebates, but gives you ongoing bill credits for allowing them to pause your charging for a few peak hours each weekday. And if you don’t have a Smart Charging device they offer good deals and referrals to installers.

Viva Village is a Beaverton-area grassroots organization of members and volunteers who focus on enhancing and expanding the ways we can age well. We provide connections, programs, volunteer services, and referrals so members can lead engaged, healthy lives. For more information visit . Please RSVP for all events by calling 503-746-5082 or email info@vivavillage.org. Links for Zoom meetings will be sent to those who RSVP. Events for members-only are listed in the online version of Cedar Mill News.

Women’s Coffee

Wednesdays in May, 10 am-noon, New Seasons Market Cedar Hills, 3495 SW Cedar Hills Blvd.,RSVP recommended.

Online Viva Village 101

Saturday, May 9, 10-11:30 am

An informational session for prospective members, volunteers, or anyone interested in Viva Village. Register on our website or contact the Viva Village office for the Zoom link.

Viva Village 101-in person

Thursday, May 14, 2-3:30 pm, Viva Village Office, 4800 SW Griffith Dr. #102, Beaverton

Meet in our office for a casual small-group conversation with current members and volunteers. Learn about Viva Village and ask questions. Limited to 8. RSVP to reserve your spot by registering on our website or contacting the office.

Viva Village Forum

Monday, May 18, 2-3:30 pm, United Methodist Church, Wesley Room, 12555 SW 4th St., Beaverton

Effective Financial Management. Learn practical financial planning ideas from Miriam Whiteley, CFP® in this educational presentation on everyday money decisions: aligning core values with your financial decisions; short- and long-term planning; useful ideas for making tax-aware decisions; and tips on living frugally and saving wisely. No charge. Refreshments served. RSVP recommended. Register on our website or contact the Viva Village office.

Medical Advocacy…For Yourself and Others

Tuesday, May 19, 1-2 pm, online via Zoom

Join us for an online interactive discussion facilitated by Dr. Gerda Maissel. A physician and private patient advocate, she will talk about the patient advocate role, how to advocate for yourself and your loved ones, and how a patient advocate helps. RSVP for the Zoom link. Register on our website or contact the Viva Village office. The Zoom link is included in your confirmation email as well as the reminder email two days before the presentation.

Men’s Coffee Break

Monday, May 25, 10-11:30 am, Market of Choice Cedar Mill (mezzanine), 250 NW Lost Springs Terrace in Timberland Town Center

Conversation and coffee. RSVP recommended.

Online Viva Village Book Club

Tuesday, May 26, 1-2:30 pm

Selected book: See No Stranger by Valarie Kaur. A memoir and manifesto of revolutionary love. Nonfiction. RSVP for the Zoom link.

Viva Village Events for Members and Volunteers, RSVP to info@vivavillage.org or call 503-746-5082

Online Tai Chi Classes

Mondays, May 4, 18, 9:45-10:45 am

RSVP for the Zoom link.

Online Mindful Meditation Classes

Mondays in May, 11-11:45 am

RSVP for the Zoom link.

Fiber Crafts…Quilting, Crocheting, Knitting, Sewing

Tuesday, May 5, 1-2 pm, third floor conference room, 4800 SW Griffith Dr., Beaverton

Bring your own project to work on. Limited to 12. RSVP required. Register on the website or contact the office.

Living Solo Happy Hour

Thursday, May 7, 2:30 pm, Murrayhill Taphouse, 14550 SW Murray Scholls Dr., Beaverton

RSVP appreciated.

Living Solo Sounding Board

Monday, May 11, 1-2:30 pm, third floor conference room, 4800 SW Griffith Dr., Beaverton

Space limited to 10. Register on the website or contact the office.

Life Stories

Tuesday, May 12, 2-3:30 pm, Southminster Presbyterian Church, 12250 SW Denney Rd., Beaverton

Back by popular demand! Frieda Pardo shares her story of starting the very first coffee shop in Stockton, CA. RSVP appreciated.

Red Room Italian Dinner: Drinks and Conversation

Tuesdays, May 12 & 26, 7-9:30 pm, The Red Room, 4708 NW Bethany Blvd., E-5

Join Viva Villagers for a night of excellent Italian food, fine wine, mixed drinks, and conversation. Limited to 6. RSVP required. Register on the website or contact the office.

Dine Around Beaverton and Beyond

Wednesday, May 13, 1 pm, McMenamins Murray & Allen, 6179 SW Murray Blvd., Beaverton

Join other Viva Village members and volunteers for lunch and conversation. RSVP required. Limited to 15. Register on the website or contact the office.

Couples Happy Hour

Thursday, May 14, 4 pm, McMenamins at Cedar Hills, 2885 SW Cedar Hills Blvd., Beaverton

Join other Viva Villagers for a Happy Hour get-together. Enjoy friendly conversation and Happy Hour specials. Your non-Viva Village spouse or partner is welcome! Limited to 8 couples (16 people). RSVP required. Register on the website or contact the office.

Living Solo Discussion Group in-person

Wednesday, May 20, 12-1:30 pm, 4800 SW Griffith Dr., third floor conference room

Bring your own lunch or snack. Limited to 12. RSVP required. Register on the website or contact the office.

Music Salon

Thursday, May 21, 10-11:30 am, in a member’s home

The Viva Village Music Salon is a congenial group of music lovers who perform live music and enjoy listening to one another. Limited to 12. Register on the website or contact the office. The address is included in your registration email.

Mystery Book Club

Thursday, May 21, 1-2 pm, third floor conference room, 4800 SW Griffith Dr., Beaverton

May selection: A Minute to Midnight by David Baldacci. Limited to 12. RSVP required. Register on the website or contact the office.

Living Solo Discussion Group online

Thursday, May 21, 4-5:30 pm

A time to share experiences, tips, and strategies for living on your own. RSVP for the Zoom link.

ADHD – You and Me Discussion Group

May date/time to be determined, third floor conference room, 4800 SW Griffith Dr, Beaverton

Talking through the challenges and sharing the opportunities. Partners welcome. Refreshments served. RSVP required. Limited to 10. Register on the website or contact the office.

Tech Talks

Wednesday, May 27, 1-2:30 pm, Beaverton City Library, Room B, 12375 SW 5th St., Beaverton

Smartphone Essentials. Learn how to configure your smartphone and use popular apps. RSVP required. Limited to 25. Register on the website or contact the office.

Open Mic

Thursday, May 28, 2:30-4 pm, third floor conference room, 4800 SW Griffith Dr., Beaverton

Open Mic is for readers, writers, and listeners. Bring short pieces to read aloud. Feel free to come to listen and be inspired. Hosted by Gary V. Anderson. Limited to 11. RSVP required. Register on the website or contact the office.

Thursday Evening Social

Thursday, May 28, 5:30 pm, Casa Lola, 6325 SW Barrows Rd., #100, Beaverton

Limited to 15. RSVP required. Register on the website or contact the office.