#21 Randal Wyatt: Taking Ownership PDX

Musician, activist, and founder of nonprofit Taking Ownership PDX, Randal Wyatt discusses his journey to creating Taking Ownership and the work they do in the community. As well as why he thinks the model works so well in Portland and how creating the organization has made him a better leader.

Other topics discussed…

– Why he’s so optimistic.

– How he got into the music scene in Portland.

– The inspiration behind starting taking ownership PDX.

– Challenges of organizing volunteers.

– Leadership through team management.

– Challenges in becoming a registered non profit.

– Dealing with anxiety / what self care looks like to him .

– Why other cities haven’t adopted the Taking Ownership model.

– Types of work Taking Ownership does.

– The unique story of Randal becoming a homeowner.

– PDX Housing Solidarity Project & Back Home ADU.

– What it’s like having his kids see him do this work.

– What song has defined his year.

– How you can get involved with Taking Ownership.

Find Randal here.

Find Taking Ownership PDX here.

Check out Randal’s Excellence Awards discussion here:

Join Us – Excellence Awards with Randal Wyatt of Taking Ownership PDX



Hey, I’m Randal Wyatt! I’m inviting you to come build community and gain some motivation at the next Living Room Realty Excellence Award luncheon.

Each quarter, Living Room gives out the Excellence Award to someone who demonstrates leadership, excellence, and a spirit of generosity in the community while uplifting others.

I’m excited and humbled to be receiving this award, and I look forward to sharing my story and some of the things that have helped me and my organization Taking Ownership PDX be successful, such as:

– How to turn a desire to help into action.
– Valuable lessons and leadership that have helped me.
– How to mobilize support for your cause quickly.

A tasty catered lunch, collaborative ideas, and maybe a few laughs await.

This all takes place Wednesday, April 10th, at 11:30 a.m. at the Central Eastside Living Room Realty Office.

Click the image below to get your free ticket on Eventbrite before they’re gone.

I’m looking forward to seeing you there!

 

Neighborhood Nirvana: How to Plan the Perfect Block Party This Summer

Block Parties are a fun and easy way to build community and get to know your neighbors. You may be wondering where in the world you’d even start to plan a neighborhood block party – and I’m here to help! Luckily, the Portland Bureau of Transportation (PBOT) created the “Portland in the Streets” program, which is specifically targeted towards organizing block parties. They received a whopping 956 applications in 2023, the largest in their history! Let’s walk through the steps to planning a successful block party and explore the meaningful impact it can have on your community:

Step 1: Understand the rules and regulations

It’s important to understand how to throw a safe and legal neighborhood party. There are rules around permits, road closures, and safety guidelines to ensure your event is safe and enjoyable for everyone. Some things to consider: 

  • You must apply for a permit, but luckily the permit is free!
  • The event must be free and open to the general public. 
  • The block party cannot be associated with business or organizations and cannot exceed 100 people at any point. 
  • It must be on a non-arterial street and classified as “Local Service Traffic.” 
  • It must be on a block that is not part of a bus or transit route. 
  • It must take place between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m., not to exceed 8 hours per week. This includes setup or cleanup time. (there are additional rules to extend until 9 p.m. – traffic control devices need to be equipped with retro-reflectivity and flashing lights). 
  • It may span up to 2 blocks but intersections must remain open (note: it will take PBOT longer to review applications to close multiple blocks!).  

Step 2: Gather a planning committee

Forming a planning committee with your neighbors can make the process smoother and more enjoyable. Delegate responsibilities such as permit application, logistics, entertainment, and communication. Collaborating with others not only lightens the workload but also builds a sense of community involvement.

This is also a great time to set the intention of your block party. Bock parties provide an opportunity to build stronger relationships, share resources, and support one another. Consider including activities that promote collaboration and sharing, such as a potluck, knowledge-sharing workshop or a community swap meet.

Step 3: Choose a date and time

This is a great time to let your neighbors know that you’re planning a block party. Chat with them and choose a date and time that works for the majority. Check local events calendars to avoid scheduling conflicts and to increase the chances of a higher turnout. You can check the City of Portland’s Events calendar, and Willamette Week has a pretty comprehensive event calendar as well. 

Step 4: Apply for and secure permits

You can apply for a block party permit via PBOT’s website here. You’ll need to register for an account with the City of Portland if you don’t have one already (which is fairly quick and easy).  The website also includes helpful information on street closures, barricades, and other essential details to make your block party a success.

Step 5: Plan activities and entertainment

You don’t have to have activities and entertainment, but it does make the day more fun and memorable, especially for kiddos. From live music and games to food and drink options (no alcohol sales and/or alcohol consumption on the street), consider the preferences and interests of your neighbors. Perhaps you have a neighbor who plays the guitar, or a gardener who would love to share their knowledge!

Many people also love Block Party Bingo where you make your own bingo cards using one of the free “Human Bingo” templates available online. Fill the squares with questions about your neighbors, such as “rides their bike to work” or “has a vegetable garden”. Then, ask your attendees to find someone who can answer yes to each question and have them sign or initial the corresponding square. The first person to get a bingo wins a prize. It’s a great ice-breaker and conversation starter, can help you discover new things about your neighbors and make new friends.

Step 6: Communicate with your neighbors

By now you’ve already let your neighbors know that you’re planning a block party and settled on a date/time. In fact, PBOT encourages all permit applicants to reach out to neighbors before applying. Once approved, you must notify your neighbors at least 2 days prior to your closure. They even have a flyer you can print and use.  

Step 7: Enjoy, share and repeat!

Once you’ve organized a block party, the next will be even easier! You can trade off tasks and rotate the planning committee, try new activities and share what’s working with friends in other neighborhoods so they can be inspired to organize their own. 

Organizing a block party is not just about throwing a fun event; it’s about building a stronger, more connected community. The goal is to create an inclusive and meaningful gathering that brings neighbors together in a spirit of camaraderie and support. Through these events, we can create a more vibrant and resilient communities where everyone feels a sense of belonging and shared responsibility.

For more information, visit the Portland in the Streets/Block Party Program website or contact them at: 503-823-4003 // pbotblockparty@portlandoregon.gov

#17: Javier Alomía: It’s Easier To Say Yes

Javier Alomoía joins Jenelle sharing his journey from Ecuador to Portland and the keys to his success in building his business from nothing to the robust success that it is today. As well Javier tells us the why of his immense involvement in the local PDX community and why he generally always says “Yes”.


Other topics of conversation

– How he came to USA

– How he got into real estate

– What influences how he manages his finances.

– Mindset helping budget for the future

– Community service… this feels good.

– Why immigrants come to America and 50% of millionaires in America being immigrants

– Habit’s of success and being intentional every morning

– Selling is more about listening and asking questions

– How he thinks about his sphere – keeping in touch with his community

– Your reality is only what you think it’s going to be

Find Javier here!

Loving Room Fund Spotlight: Rose Haven

Rose Haven and Living Room Realty have been partnered since 2019, yet “the haven” has been a sanctuary for women and children in Portland since 1997. It all started when a few volunteers went under the bridges and into the streets to conduct a survey, asking women what they needed. Overwhelmingly the response was a safe place to go, where they could make healthy relationships, and meet their basic human needs with dignity. 25 years later, we are still offering programs based on our guest self-defined needs, and now welcome anyone marginalized by their gender. However, the needs in Portland are more critical than ever before.

According to the 2022 Multnomah County Point In Time Count 5,228 people are experiencing homelessness in this county. Since 2019, overall homelessness has increased by 30% and those living completely unsheltered (outside in tents, cars, or on the margins) has doubled; and we know these numbers are low due to the logistics of the count itself. The communities we serve are even more vulnerable to homelessness, especially as a result of gender-based violence. 69.8% of transgender people, 66.7% of gender non-conforming, and 59% of women experiencing homelessness also had a history of domestic violence. 43% of those reporting a history of domestic violence were also currently unsheltered. On top of that, we know the housing market has been red hot, making affordable housing a real challenge.

Rose Haven’s mission is to provide day shelter, resources, emotional support, and community connections to women, children, and marginalized genders experiencing homelessness and poverty. Our vision is a community where everyone has safety, stability, love, health, and home. 5 days a week they are serving up radical hospitality, offering the following services:

  • Meals
  • Showers and restrooms
  • Clothing and supplies
  • Laundry
  • Safe Mailing Addresses
  • Onsite clinic
  • Technology lab
  • Wellness activities
  • Onsite community partner connection
  • Community celebrations
  • Advocacy support for financial aid, emotional support, and resource referral/navigation

As we celebrated 25 years of compassionate service in Portland, we also expanded into our dream home. After years in a church basement and adapting to an outdoor service model during the pandemic, this was truly a celebration. On March 8th, 2022 we opened the doors to our new home for the Haven, a 10,000 sq. ft. facility designed with a trauma-informed lens at 1740 NW Glisan St! Much of this growth is because of the support from the Loving Room Fund. Since 2019, Living Room Realty has contributed a total of $142,900! In 2022 alone, your efforts raised $61,777. Your gifts matter. In 2022 you helped Rose Haven served 3,523 of our neighbors experiencing poverty, offering the following services:

  • Bus Tickets: 18265
  • Clothing Shopping Visits: 4036
  • Emergency Outfits: 8250
  • Outdoor Supplies: 5431
  • Hygiene Supplies: 7864
  • First Aid Supplies: 331
  • Pet Supplies 670
  • Diapers: 695
  • Coats: 947
  • Meals: 39670
  • Laundry: 390
  • Showers: 2994
  • Storage Area Use: 355
  • Computer Lab: 309
  • Art Therapy Classes:370
  • Nurse Visits:2027
  • Wellness:601

You also helped with emergency financial assistance. Here is the breakdown of bills we paid from 2022:

  • Gas Cards: 266
  • Monthly HC Bus Passes: 204
  • Emergency Transportation: 38
  • IDs: 207
  • Eye Exam and Glasses Vouchers: 18
  • Emergency Medical: 83
  • Rental Applications: 36
  • Utilities: 102
  • Storage: 61
  • Phone Payments: 290
  • Education & Employment Fees: 120

 

The work is far from over though. We will be implementing a Mental Health Advocacy Program in 2023 that will bridge the gaps in mental health services to a population currently lacking accessibility. We all need to work together to heal people, and heal Portland.

 

Learn more about Rose Haven on their Website www.rosehaven.org 

Make 2023 merry and bright.

Light up the new year.

We all know Portland in February can be dark and stormy. The Winter Light Festival offers a wonderful reason to get outside after dark and have some fun, whatever the weather. With bright, interactive displays, this festival combines art and technology in a family friend experience and takes place at numerous locations around the city.

My husband and I have enjoyed the festival in the past and always round out the evening with warm beverages in a cozy nearby bar. It’s always a great evening and I’m looking forward to this year’s event.

If you’re looking for something to do this winter, check out the 2023 Winter Light Festival. Mark your calendars for February 3-11, 2023, and don’t be afraid to brave the elements to experience the breathtaking colors, art, and performances!

– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –

Interested in making Portland your home?

Call Cheri Harney, at 503-319-4858.

Just Listed! The Foundation Condominiums at Summerfield

15437 SW 114th Court, #91

Tigard, Oregon, 97224


Located in the Foundations at Summerfield, this desirable upper level end unit offers wondrous views of floral and foliage.  With ample windows facing east and south, this spacious floor plan is light filled and open. The well-situated unit features vaulted ceilings and has been lovingly updated with fresh paint, new carpet and laminate wood flooring, new stainless-steel appliances, and new heater/air conditioning unit. The primary suite is complete with a walk-in shower and closet. The living room has a gas fireplace for cooler days and a sliding door to the covered walkout deck, ready for your patio furniture and planters. Summerfield is a sought-after 55+ community with shopping, restaurants and many amenities nearby. Come and enjoy everything The Foundation Condominiums have to offer!


OFFERED AT $325,000

2 BEDROOM | 2 BATH | 1,200 SQFT

MLS# 21305657 | TAXES: $3,283.62

Vermont Hills MidCentury

Vermont Hills MidCentury

3622 SW Iowa St | Portland, Ore 97221

Offered at $699,900 | ML # 21140679

4 Bedrooms | 2 1/2 Baths | 2,972 SF | 8,800 SF Lot

Vermont Hills Midcentury with classic ’60s details in architect-designed floorplan. Mount Hood views, original Oak flooring, Mahogany trims & abundant built-ins. Updated kitchen with dining nook, tile, cork flooring, access to sunroom/patio & multi-level backyard with established natives & edibles. 4 bedrooms & 2 baths on main level. Basement family room with 2nd fireplace & 3rd bath. Double garage, laundry room & additional basement storage.  A mile to Gabriel Park, community center & local amenities.

Photo SlideShow

Just Listed: Forest Park Treetop Retreat

Forest Park Treetop Retreat

Forest Park Treetop Retreat

10272 NW Alder Grove Lane, Portland, OR 97229

Offered at $365,000 | MLS# 21423474
2 bed | 2 bath | 1,380 sq. ft. | Taxes: $6,145.86

 

Nestled in the treetops of Forest Park, this stunning townhouse is the perfect place to call home! High ceilings and lots of windows bring the outside in, while a fireplace anchors and adds warmth and comfort. The second floor features an open-concept layout, modern kitchen with SS appliances, gorgeous bamboo flooring, guest bedroom & bathroom, plus a beautiful private patio off the living room. The upper level features a large primary bedroom suite with a luxurious bathroom with both a shower and a tub, plus a bonus office nook. The garage is on the entry-level and is extra deep and outfitted with lots of shelving for storage.

Located in the heart of Forest Heights, this home has easy access to highways, is a short drive to downtown Portland, and allows you to enjoy the shops and restaurants of the nearby Forest Heights Village Center. Hiking trails and a pond with picnic areas, located just steps from your front door allow you to play in nature anytime!

OPEN THIS WEEKEND!

Sat 4/10 & Sun 4/11 from 1–3pm

Forest Park Treetop Retreat

Columbia River Retreat

Columbia River Retreat

330 NE Bridgeton Rd | Portland, Ore 97211

Offered at $439,900 | ML #21628205

3 Bedrooms | 3 1/2 Baths | 2,144 SF

Enchanting retreat on the Columbia River. Views of Mt St Helens, wildlife, seasonal parades & fireworks. Proximity to local cafes & dining, golf course & yacht club. Open concept main floor flows from expansive kitchen w/island & dining room, through vaulted living room w/fireplace and vaulted ceilings. 3 bedrooms, each with a full bathroom. 2 bedrooms & laundry upstairs. 2 private river-view balconies. Oversized garage and ample storage throughout. Wonderful, well maintained community in paradise.

Video Tour

Just Listed! Tri-Level Comforts in Murrayhill

Relax and unwind in this beautiful Beaverton property. This is a prime location sitting snug in the highly desirable Murrayhill/Sexton Mountain neighborhood. You’ll be right at home on this quiet and residential street. The home has a wonderful, open floor plan. Inside, the home boasts 3 beds and 2.5 baths. Main living area houses a gorgeous fireplace. Enjoy an open kitchen with a large island. Bonus room downstairs can be used as a game or a TV room. The lovely back patio offers plenty of room to entertain. Single garage. Close to fantastic schools, shopping, and neighborhood parks.

Living Room Realty’s “State Of The Nation”

Attended our company’s “State Of The Nation” (annual year in review & look ahead) address this past Tuesday morning, and I won’t lie, I left this zoom feeling pretty d@mn proud of our group of humans!
Press the PLAY icon for a glimpse of the fun.

 

Also, champagne ;^]

THANK YOU PORTLAND! WE’RE TAKING THE #PORTLANDPLEDGE

Our month of gratitude continues with a huge thank you to the creatives and small business owners who make Portland so magical!

This holiday season we are committed to supporting Portland’s small business community by taking the #PortlandPledge. Local business owners are our friends, neighbors, clients, contractors, stagers, house cleaners, designers and gift makers. Now more than ever, where we spend our money can shape how our community looks in the months and years ahead. Join us and PDXSOS and let’s commit to putting our money where our hearts are by choosing local places to purchase holiday gifts this year! There are so many ways to support local small businesses. Every little bit helps. Discover new small businesses, check out ways to support them and take the #PORTLANDPLEDGE here.

 


About Us:
Over the course of their professional partnership, Aryne + Dulcinea have helped over 200 clients prosper in their new lives. During this time, they have prided themselves in their top-notch selling abilities, with homes outperforming market standards, consistently exceeding list price while most of their listings sell in under 7 days. Whether you’re looking to buy or sell, Aryne & Dulcinea will work in collaboration to guide you in investing in your future and reaching your real estate goals.

Renovated Sunnyside Craftsman

Renovated Sunnyside Craftsman

2212 SE Main St | Portland, Ore 97214

Offered at $675,000 | ML #20545733

3 Bedrooms | 2 1/2 Bathrooms | 2,376 sf | Oversized Garage

Renovated Sunnyside Craftsman. Open foursquare layout with formal entry, chef’s kitchen with custom cabinetry, breakfast bar & french doors to deck, gardens, hot tub. Three bedrooms up with retreat-like bathroom; tilework, skylight, sauna! Vintage details everywhere; millwork & flooring, hardware, high ceilings, covered front porch. Basement family room with bar, bathroom, storage & laundry. Updated systems, oversized shop/garage. 

PHOTO SLIDESHOW

A Feel Good Story

A 72-year-old woman was quietly living in a dilapidated house. Then an electrician sparked a community to help her rebuild

Gloria Scott looks on as her house is being repaired.

(CNN)When electrician John Kinney walked into Gloria Scott’s home, in Woburn, Massachusetts, he quickly realized it was not going to be a quick job.

Scott had called because sparks were shooting out of one of her light fixtures. Once Kinney got the lights on, he realized it was just one of many issues plaguing Scott’s home.
“There was extensive plumbing damage, there was holes in the ceiling, raccoons were getting in,” he said.
She also didn’t have proper running water in the house. Her kitchen sink was broken and would spew boiling water, so Scott would shut off the home’s water supply turning it on only every couple of days to flush toilets. Scott, 72 and living alone, told Kinney she couldn’t afford the repairs.
“It was definitely a hazard. It was a rough condition she was living in and I noticed immediately.”
After leaving Scott’s house, Kinney couldn’t stop thinking about the woman alone in her run-down home. So the following Monday, he came back, pulled out his tools and got working — for free.
“I knew she needed help and I knew she wasn’t going to ask for it.”
Gloria Scott is surrounded by members of the "Gloria's Gladiators" team that is rebuilding her home.

Building hope

Kinney and some friends started helping out Scott with yardwork. But in order to make all the necessary fixes, Kinney needed more people to help. He started a fundraiser page titled, “Nice old lady needs help.”
The community answered, loudly.
Within 24 hours, people had donated more than $3,500, and the amount has since topped $100,000. The money paid for skilled professionals to work on the house, but volunteers also showed up along with donated materials and supplies. And local restaurants are sending over meals.
“The project kept growing and support kept pouring in,” Kinney said.
For Scott, it wasn’t just her house that was changing, but her whole life.
“She’s been here by herself for over 10 years, so I’m sure it’s a big change for her, but she’s warmed up to everybody,” said Kinney. “She’s so happy, she’s got all types of new friends. She’s out here making lunch for us, laughing, joking. It’s just a miracle to witness.”
Electrician John Kinney, right, helped spark a movement to rebuild an elderly neighbor's home.

Now, over a month into the repairs, the electrical fix has turned into a full home renovation. Workers have installed a brand-new electrical system, plumbing system, new roof, new windows, new insulation, a fresh paint job, a new back porch and even new grass in the backyard.
Kinney thinks the repairs should take another few weeks “at least,” but the work has sparked a movement: Gloria’s Gladiators. The Gloria’s Gladiators Facebook page currently has more than 6,000 members. Kinney said he hopes that chapters will start popping up around the country to help other elderly people in need.
“It’s about getting the whole community to be gladiators and fighting for people who can’t fight for themselves.”
The work on Scott’s house may be close to finished, but Kinney said the two of them have built an enduring bond over this project.
“She reminds me of my grandmother. My daughter has bonded with her, my wife has bonded with her. It doesn’t stop here. Gloria is a part of my life.”
What started around a broken electrical fixture has lighted up both of their lives.

Bad Movies, Good Cause

When I brag about Portland one of the things I mention are the many wonderful independent movie theaters. My friends will bemoan $15 tickets and over-priced under-sized popcorn while I think fondly of $5 Tuesdays and craft drinks at CineMagic.

These independent theaters have a steep hill ahead of them during the COVID crisis. They can’t open and they’re not what comes to mind first when you think “take-out.” Still, Portland loves its theaters. Watching them adapt and pivot during closure has been inspiring, moving, and often quite humorous.

From gift cards to take out concessions, our theaters are trying all sorts of things. Laurelhurst Theater keeps its marquee up to date with movie quotes and timely calls to justice. The Hollywood Theater, a non-profit itself, set up a drive-in and has ticketed exclusive streaming links to some new and classic movies. Still, my favorite has to be CineMagic’s fantastic new strategy.

While working in Ladd’s Addition with some clients recently, I noticed the CineMagic marquee: “Beer, Popcorn, and Bad Movies To Go”.

What a pitch!

Every Friday and Saturday from 5 to 9 you can stop by their door to pick up the Movie ‘Deal.’ which “includes Beer/Cider Pack of Your Choice, A Tub of Popcorn, A Candy, & A Randomly Chosen DVD that Probably Isn’t Good”. Apparently, the DVDs of dubious quality are cast offs from a similar promo at a friend’s theater in the suburbs.

These theaters make our neighborhoods so special. Give them some love if you can! Plus, a case of drinks, a bunch of snacks, and a bad movie you can own forever will still run you less than the same at a corporate theater.

SW River Terrace

SW River Terrace Traditional

13730 SW Sabrina Ave | Sherwood, OR 97140

Offered at $475,000 | MLS #20417498

4 Bedrooms | 2.1 Bathrooms | 2,000 SF 

Bright, sunny open floor plan in River Terrace. Wood flooring, gourmet kitchen w/breakfast bar, pantry, stainless, stone & tile finishes. Gorgeous master en suite w/soaking tub and walk-in closet. Traditional, covered front porch & back patio. Gas fireplace, surround speakers, EcoBee thermostat & Central A/C. Community amenities:  walking trails, parks & playgrounds, fitness center, sport courts, pool & meeting rooms.

Virtual Tour & More Photos

 

Shop Safely, Shop Local

 

In a time of uncertainty, we all would like to hide at home until this blows over.

Unfortunately that just isn’t entirely possible, especially with kids at home (they just keep eating!).

We still need basics, and like many of you I worry that the small businesses that make up the Portland we love won’t survive for long.

There are ways to help, both your family, and the family of small business around us.

Below is a list of small businesses doing online ordering with curbside pickup, sometimes they will head right out and put bags directly into your trunk to eliminate as much person -to -person contact as possible.

Take heart Portland, and support the small businesses while you’re at it.

 

P’s & Q’s Market on NE Dekum

Grand Central Bakery, Beaumont, Hawthorn, Ceder Mills, Multnomah locations

Providore Fine Foods, NE Sandy

Navarre & Luce, NE location (wine to go with amazing food!)

Pollo Norte NE

Kachka, SE to go prepared food and pantry (they’re even offering a to go Passover menu)

That’s just the tip of the iceberg, for a more comprehensive list of restaurants offering takeout, check out Eater’s list here , and their list of grocery stores offering both pick up and delivery, look here.

Daisy

 

photo credit Michael Novak via Portland Monthly

 

 

 

Sunnyside Farmhouse

Sunnyside Farmhouse

623 SE 34th Ave | Portland, Ore 97214

Offered at $649,900 | MLS #20699049

3+ Bedrooms | 2 Baths | 2,167 SF 

Gorgeous Sunnyside farmhouse, blocks from Laurelhurst Park, Belmont shops, cafes, dining. Covered front & back porches peer into established gardens and entertainment spaces. Renovated kitchen; pantry, stainless, custom cabs, breakfast bar. 3 bedrooms up, 4th on the main with guest bathroom. Updated throughout; systems and finishes. Vintage details; wood flooring, millwork, hardware & lighting. A neighborhood treasure, brought into modern times.

See the Photo Slideshow

Down Holiday Memory Lane

As a child, Saturday Market was a favorite adventure for my two sisters and I. The gorgeous hand made crafts, notable local characters, cobblestone streets, and Skidmore Fountain were enticing features of wonder to us kids. The holidays were a particularly fantastical time at the market, awash with smells of hot chocolate mixed with fresh made pine wreaths, and sounds of carolers singing along the waterfront.

This last weekend, I went to visit for the first time in many years. A friend of a friend, Nicole Mark, was showcasing prints of her breathtaking shots of the Pacific Northwest at her booth, just down under Ankeny Street. We went to bring her some custom frames hand made for her larger prints, hoping to support her and some of the other local artisans during our visit. The sound of the max rolling along the old Portland streetcar tracks, the smell of roasting coffee, the sights of woodworkers carving into tree bark under the light of their booth’s overhead heat lamps brought back a blend of childhood memories. I wandered around, taking in the soft rain pattering on the tents, mindfully stepping out of the way of puddles and holiday shoppers.

There is something deeply soothing about visiting places that held splendor for us as children as an adult, returning to see if they still hold magic. Aspects of Portland valued by my parents, and hence passed onto me, are found within the environment created each season by the vendors of Saturday Market. Community, expression, creativity, local celebration, diversity.

Just as we were leaving, Nicole offered one of her photos to me as a kind gesture, befitting in the spirit of this season of giving. Each one capturing a beautiful glimpse of scenic grandeur we have come to recognize within the nature scape surrounding Portland; a flowing riverbed, a mountaintop sprinkled with snow, a canyon of evergreens. It was challenging to select one from the array, but in the end, I gravitated towards a photo featuring the view I am most familiar with, home.

Home means different things to each of us. Whether you grew up here or are celebrating your first holiday season as a local in Stumptown, I would encourage you to head down to Saturday Market sometime during 2020. Stop by to visit Nicole and ask her to share the story behind any one of her striking images.

 

Multnomah Village Retreat

Multnomah Village Retreat

5822 SW Multnomah Blvd | Portland, OR 97219

Offered at $425,000 | MLS #19509615

3 Bedrooms | 2 Baths | 1,212 SF | 0.23 Acres | Attached Garage

Multnomah Village retreat; Contemporary home set back on a private drive on nearly 1/4 acre lot w/established flora & spacious entertainer’s deck. Vaulted ceilings, great flow & light throughout. Remodeled kitchen w/breakfast bar,  fireplace, Master bedroom en suite, ample storage. Updated systems; electrical, roof, windows, A/C. Move-in ready & a mile from Multnomah Village shops, dining & cafes. Home sweet home.

See the Photo Slideshow

Connecting to the Local Community – Manzanita

Hoffman Gallery Inspired by Words Show
Hoffman Gallery Inspired by Words Show

Connecting to the local community – Manzanita

We at Living Room Realty want to connect with our community and develop meaningful and powerful relationships.  One way we do this is by choosing a nonprofit organization and donate a portion of each sale to them.  For the next three years, I am proud to say that our local nonprofit is The Hoffman Center for the Arts.  The Hoffman Center’s mission is to provide a welcoming place for north Oregon coast residents and visitors to create, explore and enjoy arts and culture.  What an incredible mission!

Because of this, I’m so excited to be able to do this giving. At the same time, I’m looking forward to connecting, and learning more about the Hoffman Center.  I hope to share what I learn with you.

So to start the sharing, I visited the Hoffman Center and learned that today starts a new show in the Hoffman Center Gallery.  It’s called “Inspired By Words”.  The show runs through March 31st and features art that includes words, phrases, or language to express emotions and ideas.  If you are in town over spring break be sure to stop in and see the show.  Here are the details.

Darcey Kline | REALTOR® | Living Room Realty Manzanita

Love Every Day

Start 2019 off right in a home that you love. With Valentine’s Day right around the corner, it’s time to think about love at a whole other level. Living in the beautiful and energy efficient Net Zero home could bring you love every day of the year. With an open plan that let’s in plenty of light and a master on the main, this could be your dream home. You’ll also love the courtyard and patio that is great for entertaining, too.
Step inside the Net Zero home

Pringle Creek Community is also an extension of the Net Zero home, and a great way to feel connected with nature and neighbors. Your dream home extends into the orchards, the green houses, and the babbling creek. It doesn’t stop there, there’s also Painters Hall, the community center and events space. This is a resident amenity, where you could join in on the fun of finding your inner peace with yoga or perhaps finding kinship at the book club, where books are optional and the conversation is lively.

Relax in an comfortable open plan and take in the sunshine.

Wander into the historic Lord and Burnham greenhouses and say, “Hello,” to expert Urban Farmer, Colleen Owen. The community has a 25 share CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) that you could join, and a farm stand to boot. You might find yourself at Cluckingham Palace. Yes, just like the name, it’s a chicken coop filled with chickens that are held to the highest regard being fed organic produce to make the farm fresh eggs even yummier and nutritious.

The Net Zero home is a home to fall in love with, and it’s in a place to live a happy and healthy life. Curious about what the Net Zero home looks like? Experience it for yourself. There’s an open house happening this Saturday, February 2, from 11:00 – 2:00pm. See what living sustainably looks like.

OPEN HOUSE: Saturday, February 2, 11:00am – 2:00pm

Loving Room Fund Candidates

As a company, Living Room donates 5% of our annual profit to local charities. As individual agents, we donate a minimum amount per transaction to one of our Loving Room Fund charities, along with allowing our clients to choose a charity and donate on their behalf. Every three years, Living Room agents collectively elect and invite a group of charities to present at our company meeting so three new charities can be selected. After all the charities present, we then vote on the next group of Loving Room Fund recipients. This year, ten organizations with varied focuses all pulled at the heartstrings, making for a very difficult decision. We had so many wonderful organizations with great causes and missions present, I wanted to take the time to recognize them all. Below you will find links, descriptions, and missions of all the organizations we were blessed to hear from. If any of these stories resonate with you, I urge you to donate, whether money or time, to help them continue the beneficial work they do within our community.

 

Greater Than – The mission of Greater Than is to support and empower students from poverty- impacted communities to thrive in school, college and career. To that end, we identify and convene quality best-in-class partners (based on track record, evidence of impact) and recruit them to join our collaborative whole school model on their own dime. Our programs focus on students and families from Oregon’s most poverty-impacted communities, promote culturally responsive family engagement. We work closely with parents, who are the primary drivers of program priorities, are long-term—we work with students and their families from Pre-K through college and career, and are inclusive—we do not “cherry pick” students and are deeply committed to educational equity.

Harper’s Playground – Our quest to design and build playgrounds that work for everybody began in 2009 after our five-year-old daughter Harper tried to approach a play structure in her walker at the park a few blocks from our home—and got stuck in woodchips. Frustrated she was unable to climb, slide or simply play in virtually all playgrounds, we set forth to design and build a better model and fund it ourselves. In 2010, we created Harper’s Playground, a non-profit organization dedicated to building better, all-inclusive playgrounds around the world. Our first project? Uniting our community to help redesign and rebuild that very same playground in our neighborhood.

Impact NW – Impact NW is a premier provider of educational and social services in the greater Portland metro area. Our mission is to help people prosper through a community of support. Impact NW is a private non-profit organization that began in 1966 as Portland Action Committees Together, Inc. (PACT). Four neighborhoods came together and created the agency to address the growing problems associated with poverty in the area. Since our inception, Impact NW has been a leader in providing individuals of all ages with the skills and resources necessary to achieve success and to advocate for themselves and their communities. Annually, over 30,000 low-income children, youth, families, seniors, and adults with disabilities participate in Impact NW’s comprehensive anti- poverty programs.

Oregon Wild – Founded in 1974, Oregon Wild (formerly the Oregon Natural Resources Council or ONRC) has been instrumental in securing permanent legislative protection for some of Oregon’s most precious landscapes, including nearly 1.7 million acres of Wilderness, 95,000 acres of forests in Bull Run/ Little Sandy watersheds (to safeguard the quality of Portland’s water supply) and almost 1,800 miles of Wild & Scenic Rivers. With a staff of 14, including regional coordinators, Oregon Wild’s strength is its active grassroots citizen network. Through the power of 3,000 members, over 15,000 e-mail activists and dozens of active volunteers, Oregon Wild works to maintain environmental laws, while building broad community support for our campaigns.

p:ear – p:ear builds positive relationships with homeless and transitional youth through education, art and recreation to affirm personal worth and create more meaningful and healthier lives. Each year our programs serve almost 900 homeless and transitional young people ages 15 to 24. To truly exit homelessness, kids must develop the internal strength, skills and foresight to make healthy choices. p:ear provides a safe, non-judgmental environment in which youth are trusted to outgrow unproductive and harmful behaviors. They offer individualized mentoring and education programs in a safe, reliable setting designed to foster trust, build self-esteem and to teach homeless and transitional kids – who all too often are regarded by society as disposable, “hopeless cases” – that they are valuable individuals with a future who have something vital to contribute to this community.

Partners for Hunger Free Oregon – We are leaders in the anti-hunger movement. We envision an Oregon where everyone is healthy and thriving, with access to affordable, nutritious and culturally appropriate food. To bring that vision into reality, we raise awareness about hunger, connect people to nutrition programs, and advocate for systemic changes. Our mission statement highlights the three strategies that are fundamental to address hunger at the scale of the problem and tackle the root causes: learn, connect, advocate. This model–gathering and disseminating information, expanding access to key anti-hunger programs and engaging stakeholders in public policy reform– builds on our strengths and leverages the expertise of our partners and those impacted by hunger. As a relatively small non-profit with 10 staff, we draw strength from a wide network of partners, advocates, leaders and donors across the state. From mayors to moms to chefs to doctors, people across the state join this movement in making change. Together, we can end hunger in Oregon.

ReBuilding Center – We offer affordable used building and remodeling materials with the goal of promoting the use of salvaged and reclaimed materials — a non-profit resource to strengthen environmental, economic and social fabric of local communities. We accept donations of reusable building materials that are then priced at 40-90% off retail market values. We do this to make them affordable to people of all income levels. We are a resource for information and materials. Inventory changes daily, so plan your projects, bring your measurements and get ready to be inspired!

Rose Haven – Rose Haven is a day shelter and community center serving women, children and gender non-conforming folks experiencing the trauma of abuse, loss of home and other disruptive life challenges. We break the cycle of homelessness by providing meals, clothing, first aid, mailing addresses, hygiene, restrooms, showers as well as educational programs and guidance through medical and social services. By meeting basic needs and building trust, we empower our guests to explore long-term change.

Transition Projects – Transition Projects helps people transition from homelessness to housing in the Portland metro area. Each year, we assist more than 10,000 people through a broad array of services, resources, and tools. On any given day, we help meet the basic needs of more than 500 people experiencing homelessness through our Resource Center. On any given night, we provide a safe place to sleep for more than 800 people with nowhere else to turn. In any given year, we help place more than 1,000 people into affordable housing – and then support them in retaining that housing. Founded in 1969, Transition Projects is a 501(c)(3) non-profit agency that today employs a staff team of more than 275 people working across a network of 9 program sites around Portland.

Urban Gleaners – Urban Gleaners’ mission is to help alleviate hunger by collecting edible, surplus food that would otherwise be thrown away and redistributing it to agencies that feed the hungry. The concept of picking up and redistributing food is a simple weapon in the fight against hunger. Hunger is less a problem of scarce resources but rather inefficient distribution. Urban Gleaners’ programs include Food to Schools, Emergency Food Relief, Summer Free Farmers’ Markets, and a pilot program called Mobile Market aimed at bringing relief to food desserts.

The One

Pringle Creek Community is a one of a kind neighborhood, and we are excited to let you know that a very special and unique home has just become available. Like that special someone who only comes around once in a blue moon, the Net Zero home is sure to take your breath away. This unique 4-bedroom and 2.5 bath home has a master on the main with plenty of natural light, as well as a beautiful courtyard that’s ideal for entertaining guests. When we think ofthe one, this one is the home that checks all the boxes.

The One
Step into the Net Zero Home.

Taking even a closer look as to what makes the Net Zero home super energy efficient is it’s construction. It’s made out of ICF, which stands for insulated concrete forms. Essentially, 100% recycled polystyrene blocks are put up like you might think of Legos. They are connected together, and then concrete is poured in between them to make a form that provides a very tight building insulation envelope. This means, your energy bills will be significantly less, because it takes less energy to heat and cool the home.  This home exhibits expert craftsmanship thanks to Better Builders of Oregon’s expertise in building with ICF for over 25 years.

The One
Light-filled Living

Zooming back out, Pringle Creek Community also has wonderful amenities for its residents,  like the first LEED Platinum community center in the nation along with a flourishing urban farm. Residents can choose to have indoor and outdoor gardening plots, or just stop and smell the roses while picking up an extra sprig of rosemary to liven things up. The dedicated green space expands beyond the urban farm’s green houses to the meadows, orchards and spills into the serene namesake Pringle Creek. As you can see, the Net Zero home is such a unique opportunity that doesn’t come along too often. Don’t miss out on this special home situated in an urban oasis.

OPEN HOUSES

Sunday, December 2nd from 11:00am – 2:00pm

Tuesday, December 4th from 5:00pm – 7:00pm

TOURS

Please contact us to set-up a tour of Pringle Creek Community by clicking here.