Community News July 2025

June 30, 2025   Uncategorized

WashCo Forum on summer break

The Washington County Public Affairs Forum will be off for the summer. At the next meeting at noon on September 8, State Representative Hai Pham will talk about what went on in the latest Oregon Legislative session. It will be held at the Old Spaghetti Factory in Tanasbourne or via Zoom.

Camp iWannaBe

Thursday-Saturday, July 31-August 2, Christ UMC, 12755 NW Dogwood St

A summer day-camp adventure where kids ages preschool through fifth grade will learn to Be kind, Be courageous and Be uniquely themselves! Join us for games, crafts, music, stories and tons of fun as we explore God’s love and learn how we can Be a difference in this world. Learn more and sign up here.

National Night Out at CUMC

Tuesday, August 4, 5-8 pm, Christ United Methodist Church, west parking lot, free

We’re joining other neighborhoods across the US in having a National Night Out and calling ours Cedar Mill Connects. Join us as we throw open the doors (and parking lot) for an evening of fun, food, and neighborly connection.

We’re bringing together our Cedar Mill community, and we’re inviting local heroes from the sheriff’s office, fire department, and government representatives. It’s going to be a great night to gather, laugh, and celebrate what makes Cedar Mill strong—each other!

Get CERT training

Beaverton Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) is a FEMA-based program that trains volunteers to respond safely and help their communities during disasters and emergencies. The city of Beaverton has opened enrollment for the Fall 2025 CERT Basic Training Course, which begins August 20. The more CERTs in your neighborhood, the better because neighbors become the responders when disasters happen. Once you are trained you can find other trained CERT teams in your neighborhood. You won’t be a team of “one.”

This is a free class. If you are interested, please use this link to view the class schedule, register, and enroll in the class. You must live or work within the city of Beaverton or Beaverton School District boundaries to qualify.

Questions? Contact certsupport@beavertonoregon.gov

Westside Electric Living Fair

Saturday, August 9, Tyson Recreation Center, 1880 NE Griffin Oaks, Hillsboro, free

At this new event, you will learn how you can improve the comfort and safety of your home or business as well as reduce its carbon footprint! This family-friendly event is for homeowners and renters ready to start transitioning their homes from gas (or old electric) to efficient renewable electric. We’ll have electric vehicles (EV’s), e-bikes, heat pumps, induction cooking, electric yard tools and more! Prizes, treats, food vendors, and kids activities!

See more information on our website westsideplanetalliance.org/electrify.html. Event sponsors include City of Hillsboro, PGE, A&R Solar, and 350.org Washington County. We look forward to seeing you there.

Celebrate Safely this Fourth of July

As we prepare to commemorate our country’s independence on July 4, Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue offers firework safety tips to ensure you have a safe holiday. If you intend to use fireworks, keep them legal and safe. Oregon law bans fireworks that fly, explode, or travel on the ground more than six feet—this includes bottle rockets, roman candles, firecrackers, and M80s. To be legal, purchase all fireworks at a licensed Oregon firework stand. Fireworks purchased by mail order or in the state of Washington or at a Native American reservation may be illegal in our state. Just because some fireworks are legal, doesn’t mean they’re 100 percent safe. This includes sparklers. They can reach temperatures of 1,200 degrees (as reference, wood burns at 575 degrees, while glass melts at 900 degrees, according to the National Fire Protection Association.)

Even legal fireworks are dangerous and can cause injuries and burns. Only adults should light or handle fireworks. Supervise children at all times. Use fireworks outdoors on a paved surface, away from buildings, vehicles, and vegetation. Never try to re-light a “dud.” Never point or throw fireworks at people, pets, or buildings. Never alter fireworks or make your own. Have a hose nearby in case of fire and place “spent” fireworks in a metal bucket with water. Store fireworks, matches, and lighters out of the reach of children.

Reporting firework incidents in TVF&R’s service area: Individuals needing to report a fire or medical emergency should call 911. Individuals wishing to report a nuisance or concern about illegal fireworks should do so via the non-emergency number, 503-629-0111. These situations will be logged, passed on to local law enforcement, and responded to as resources allow.

Penalties for misusing fireworks: Law enforcement agencies enforce criminal laws related to the use of illegal fireworks in Oregon. Under Oregon law, officers can seize illegal fireworks and issue criminal citations, including reckless burning, criminal mischief, reckless endangerment, and more, with fines up to $500 per violation. People can also be held civilly liable for damages resulting from improper use of any fireworks—legal or illegal.

For more safety tips, visit www.tvfr.com.

Bloom! Off to a flourishing start!

Friday, July 11, please contact for more details

As announced last month, a group of families are developing an intentional community for their neurodiverse young adult children here in Cedar Mill. Twelve families were represented at our first parent meetup on June 8. It was a positive, encouraging group who are all looking forward to a safe community for their neurodiverse young adults. Three families have already volunteered to help pay for design costs! Our first meetup for potential residents is July 11. Please check the website for more information for our first meetup for potential residents this month.

Ask WCSO: Fourth of July

What are some important things to consider as we celebrate this Fourth of July?

The Washington County Sheriff’s Office asks everyone to be safe and considerate when celebrating the Fourth of July. In addition to extra patrols focused on impaired drivers, deputies will be prepared to enforce laws related to illegal fireworks. While we all celebrate the Fourth of July differently, one common theme that creates a safety risk to our community is the use of illegal fireworks. Each year, law enforcement across the county respond to an overwhelming number of fireworks calls. Those calls are prioritized in response by information related to safety. It’s also important to consider our pets, as fireworks can cause anxiety and stress, potentially leading them to panic and escape from their homes. To report non-emergency issues that do not pose an immediate threat, please call 503-629-0111. For emergencies, dial 9-1-1.

We appreciate your patience as deputies respond to fireworks calls in the community. Have a wonderful and safe Fourth of July! Ask WCSO is produced by the Washington County Sheriff’s Office.

Washington County Fair

July 18-27, Westside Commons 801 NE 34th Ave., Hillsboro, free

Washington County’s most family-friendly summer event of the year is back this summer for 10 action-packed days of live entertainment, thrilling rides, and Big Fair Fun! Visit www.BigFairFun.com for details, hours, & full Fair schedule.

Free Concerts & Live Entertainment – Full Entertainment Line-Up

Main Stage headliners include The Outlaw Mariachi (July 18) and Ned LeDoux (July 24); Family Movie Nights: Wicked (July 20) & A Minecraft Movie (July 22); Oasis Stage featuring local and regional musicians daily, sponsored by First Community Credit Union.

Free Spectacular Shows for All Ages – Fair Feature Performances

The Flying Royals: high-flying crisscrossing trapeze act with artists from Cirque du Soleil; The Birdman®: world famous live bird show with an educational approach; Brad’s World of Reptiles: hands-on, zoo-quality animal exhibits open daily until 10 PM.

Free Kid Fun in the Grove – Kid’s Activities

Super Science sponsored by NW Natural: interactive STEM fun for all ages, every day; Play.Fit.Fun.: a mix of P.E. and Field Day games in “The Grove”, Saturdays & Sundays; Silly Circus Show, Choose Your Adventure with Molly & Community Performances, plus roaming performers daily.

Free Livestock & Agriculture – Barn & Livestock Event Schedule

Livestock exhibits with Open Class July 18–20 and 4-H/FFA animals July 23–27 presented by S&R Motorz as the official Ag Sponsor; Don’t miss the Blue Ribbon Steak Dinner and Youth Livestock Auction on Saturday, July 26; 4-H & Open Class Home Exhibits are featured in the Wingspan Event & Conference Center every day.

Viva Village Event List

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 our website. Please RSVP for all events by contacting

vivavillageor@gmail.com or 503-746-5082. Links for zoom meetings will be sent to those who RSVP.

Viva Village Events Open to the Public

Women’s Coffee (in person)
Wednesdays, July 2-30, 10 am-noon, New Seasons Market Cedar Hills, 3495 SW Cedar Hills Boulevard, Beaverton

Coffee and conversation. RSVP recommended.

Age Café is on hiatus in July and August. Please check our September listing for the date that month.
Introductory Conversation about Viva Village
Thursday, July 10, 2-3:30 pm at a Viva Village member’s home

A small group conversation in a casual setting with current members and volunteers. Learn about Viva Village and ask your questions. Limited to 6. RSVP for the address. Register on our website or contact the office.

Online Viva Village 101
Saturday, July 12, 10-11:30 am

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

Viva Village at Beaverton Farmers Market
Saturday, July 19, 9 am-1 pm, 12375 SW 5th Street, Beaverton

Visit the Viva Village booth to pick up information about Viva Village.

Viva Village Forum

Taking a summer break. Forums will resume in September. See you then!

Online Viva Village Book Club
Tuesday, July 22, 1-2:30 pm

Selected book: James by Percival Everett. RSVP for the Zoom link.

Men’s Coffee Break
Monday, July 28, 10-11:30 am, Market of Choice Cedar Mill (mezzanine), 250 NW Lost Springs Terrace

Conversation and coffee. RSVP recommended.

Viva Village Events for Members and Volunteers

Online Women’s Coffee
On hiatus for July, August. Resuming September 9.
Fiber Crafts…Quilting, Crocheting, Knitting, Sewing
Tuesday, July 1, 1-2 pm, Third floor conference room, 4800 SW Griffith Drive, Beaverton

Using a variety of fiber craft skills to create art squares and other projects for charity. Join this group for the joy of learning and creating fun projects together. Limited to 12. RSVP required. Login to register on the website or contact the office. Please notify the office if you need to cancel.

Living Solo Happy Hour
Thursday, July 3, 2:30 pm, Murrayhill Taphouse, 14550 SW Murray Scholls Drive, Beaverton

Get together for an afternoon of relaxed conversation with other Viva Village solos. RSVP is appreciated.

Patio Picnics
Fridays, July 4, 18, 12:30-2 pm

Conversation and lunch on a deck or patio. Bring your own lunch. You will be notified of the location and host a day or two before the picnic. Weather permitting. RSVP required by noon on the Wednesday before the picnic. Login to register on the website or contact the Viva Village office.

Viva Village Nature Walk
Saturday, July 5, 9:30 am, Tualatin Hills Nature Park, 15655 SW Millikan Way, Beaverton

Enjoy a morning walk with Viva Village friends. RSVP recommended.

Online Tai Chi Classes
Mondays, July 7-28, 10-10:45 am

Practice Tai Chi techniques and skills with certified instructor, Richard Chew. RSVP for the Zoom link.

Online Mindful Meditation Classes
Mondays, July 7, 11-11:45 am, New series: July 14-August 18

Mindful Meditation sessions led by Martha McJacobs. RSVP for the Zoom link.

Dine Around Beaverton and Beyond
Wednesday, July 9, 1 pm, McMenamins Greenway Pub, 12272 SW Scholls Ferry Road, Tigard

Join other Viva Village members and volunteers for lunch and conversation. Wear your Viva Village name badge. RSVP required by 1 pm on Tuesday 7/9. Space limited to 15 people. Login to register on the website or contact the office.

Couples Happy Hour
Thursday, July 10, 4 pm, Summer Potluck Happy Hour at a member’s home

Let’s get together for a summer potluck. Bring your favorite summer dish. Wine, beer, cider, and non-alcoholic beverages provided. Your non-Viva Village spouse or partner is welcome! RSVP required. Limited to 9 couples (18 people.) Login to register on the website or contact the office. Address will be sent with your registration.

Living Solo Sounding Board
Monday, July 14, 1-2:30 pm, Third floor conference room, 4800 SW Griffith Drive, Beaverton

The Sounding Board is a small group for exploring and giving feedback about ideas, plans, questions, concerns, and things of interest that are occurring in your life. Space limited to 10. Login to register on the website or contact the office. Let the office know if you need to cancel. If session is full, ask to add your name to the waiting list.

Living Solo (In person)
Wednesday, July 16, 12-1:30pm, Beaverton City Library, Cathy Stanton Room, 12375 SW 5th Street, Beaverton

Meet in person to share experiences, tips, and strategies for living on your own. Bring your own lunch or snack. RSVP appreciated.

Mystery Book Club
Thursday, July 17, 1-2 pm, Third floor conference room, 4800 SW Griffith Drive, Beaverton

Book: The Silence of the Lambs by Thomas Harris. Space limited to 12. RSVP required to participate. Login to register on the website or contact the office. Please notify the office if you need to cancel.

Online Living Solo
Thursday, July 17, 4-5:30 pm.

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

Bulletin Boards: An Online Orientation
Wednesday, July 23, 2-3 pm, online

Learn the basics and more! This orientation offers tips for getting the most from the Viva Village Bulletin Boards. Review or learn how to 1) post information you’d like to share and 2) read and reply to other Viva Villagers’ messages. RSVP for the Zoom link. Login to register on the website or contact the office.

Open Mic
Thursday, July 24, 2:30-4 pm. Third floor conference room, 4800 SW Griffith Drive, Beaverton

Share your writing. Bring short pieces or excerpts (about 5 minutes) to read aloud, whether it’s your own story, poem, or other writing you would like to share in a supportive environment. Space limited to 11 people. RSVP required. Login to register on the website or contact the office. Please notify the office if you need to cancel.

Thursday Evening Social
Thursday, July 24, 5:30-7:30 pm, Café Murrayhill, 14500 SW Murray Scholls Drive, Beaverton

Enjoy an evening of conversation and dinner with Viva Village friends. Space limited to 15 people. RSVP required. Login to register on the website or contact the office. Please notify the office if you need to cancel.

Viva Village Family Summer Picnic for Members, volunteers and family
Saturday, August 2, 11 am-1 pm, Evelyn Schiffler Park, 5495 SW Erickson Avenue, Beaverton

Burgers, condiments, and beverages (iced tea and lemonade) will be provided. Bring a side dish to share. Family welcome. RSVP required by Thursday, July 31. Register on the website or contact the Viva Village office.

Volunteer at GiGi’s Playhouse Today!

8538 SW Apple Way, Portland

GiGi’s Playhouse Portland, the Pacific Northwest’s first Down Syndrome Achievement Center, opened its doors on September 28, 2024. It provides free, therapeutic, educational, and career-development programs for individuals with Down syndrome, from prenatal stages through adulthood. As a vibrant, 95% volunteer‑led nonprofit with a working volunteer board, GiGi’s offers a wide range of weekly programs—from literacy and math tutoring to fitness, art, music, dance, and social‑skills development. Highlights include LMNOP (ages 0-3), Teen Tastic, GiGiFIT, Open Play, and Fantastic Friends, each tailored to foster confidence, independence, motor skills, and community connection.

To sustain and expand these life‑changing offerings, GiGi’s urgently seeks dedicated volunteers. Whether you’re interested in working directly with participants as Program Co‑Leaders, Assistants, or Greeters – or prefer behind‑the‑scenes roles in marketing, tech, administration, or event planning—your time and talents can make a profound difference. Current volunteer needs include: program support (Program Leaders and Co‑Leaders, Assistants, Greeters and more); event planning teams for signature events like the GiGiFIT Acceptance Challenge; annual 5K, marketing, outreach, and fundraising committees; and more.

Volunteers power every facet of GiGi’s mission—ensuring programs remain free, purposeful, and joyful. If you’d like to help support families, lead sessions, orchestrate events, create content, or have another valuable asset to add to the center, visit the volunteer page or email portland@gigisplayhouse.org to get started. Together, we can create more “Best of All” moments and champion acceptance, generosity, and kindness in our community.