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To contact me, please click here: Sen.JaneenSollman@oregonlegislature.gov
Friends and Neighbors,
Legislative Updates
December Interim Legislative Days
December Interim Legislative Days are next week, Tuesday, December 10th - Thursday, December 12th. Committees and task forces will convene and hear about current issues, upcoming bill concepts and Emergency Board funding requests. The Senate Floor will convene for confirmation of Executive Appointments by the Governor to State Boards and Commissions. The Governor has also called for a Special Session on Thursday to address funding for the 2024 unprecedented wildfire season.
The Legislative Day agendas for the committees I serve on are linked and listed below:
If you are planning a visit to Salem, there are metered and electric vehicle charging spots near the Capitol. The historic part of the Capitol is still under construction and remains closed, but the Senate and House wings are open. Stop by my office (S-207) to say "Hello" if you are at the Capitol. Visitors may enter through the ADA accessible doors on State Street, the south side of the building. To ensure the safety of the public, employees, tenants and Legislators in the Capitol, all visitors will encounter a security checkpoint with a walk-through metal detector upon entry. Please see the Building Use Policy, Rule #15 for prohibited items.
Not able to make the trip? You can still watch the meetings from home on OLIS, the Oregon Legislative Information System. Please find links provided by OLIS below for further information.
Legislative Days Details:
Out and About for Senate District 15
Transportation Community Conversation
Monday evening, I participated in a Transportation Community Conversation with fellow elected officials. Many community members attended and brought their concerns and questions. We talked about issues ranging from bike and pedestrian safety, Trimet safety, Trimet access, environmental impacts of transportation and how we will pay for all we need! Thank you to Senator Wlnsvey Campos, Washington County Commissioner Nafisa Fai and Metro Councilor Juan Carlos Gonzalez for joining me in this important discussion.
Small Business Saturday
Last weekend was a beautiful day for Small Business Saturday in Forest Grove! I was able to stop in and shop at Willow & Ash, Urban River Spirits, Valley Art Gallery, A Framers Touch, Green Heron Book Arts, Gongaii Games, Inc, and Slow Rise Bakehouse. It was a great opportunity to support local business and get some holiday shopping done.
Vietnam Veterans Memorial Dedication
Two weeks ago, on a beautiful November afternoon in Salem, I was able to attend the Dedication Event for the Vietnam Veterans Memorial at the State Capitol. I was honored to be there to celebrate this moving tribute, including a stunning design by architect, Mike Abbaté, which includes 46 granite columns engraved with the names of Oregonians who died in the Vietnam War, from 1955 to 1975. My dad served in Vietnam and was left with deep physical and emotional scars from his service. This memorial is a place of healing and peace, to reflect on the service and sacrifice of veterans and their families. To donate to the Vietnam War Memorial at the Oregon Capitol, visit here.
Read more about the project here: Oregon is getting a new Vietnam Veterans Memorial at state Capitol, The Oregonian, Samantha Swindler, November 11, 2024.
Senate District 15 - Small Business Spotlight
A Framer's Touch - Picture Framing & Gift Boutique
Established nearly 20 years ago, our framing studio is equipped with the latest equipment, and staffed by internationally acclaimed designers, yet we have managed to maintain our small-town roots. We cater to individual lovers of art as well as commercial clients. Our creations are proudly displayed in homes and businesses across America.
The gift gallery is a perfect complement to our studio. We carry gallery-quality gifts from artists across the country. Featuring local & domestic artists, all our gifts are works of art that will fit every desire & budget, from the elegant to the whimsical. We invite you to peruse our website and would welcome you as a guest in our gallery.
~A Framer's Touch
A Framer's Touch is located at 1920 21st Ave Ste. A, Forest Grove, OR 97116. Visit their website here for further information.
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In The News
Construction starts for Washington County's Family Peace Center, Forest Grove News Times, Nick LaMora, December 3, 2024.
Intern Corner
Hillsboro Holly Days
On November 23, from 2 to 7pm, the streets of Downtown Hillsboro were filled with holiday spirit at the city’s annual Holly Days celebration. The event offered something for everyone, as local vendors lined the streets with booths, featuring everything from food to handmade crafts and holiday items. Local organizations engaged with community members, such as the police department handing out free hot chocolate. Music was performed all afternoon by many different ensembles from Trombone Christmas to the Oregon Chorale. Adding to the family friendliness of the event, an entire street was lined with children’s holiday activities and crafts for the many kids at the event to participate in, including an opportunity to meet Santa.
This day would not have truly been Holly Days if it did not culminate in Santa’s parade to the annual tree lighting in front of the Civic Center, led by Mayor Steve Callaway and Mayor Elect Beach Pace. This tree lighting as well as the holiday sing-along that followed were wonderful examples of the community spirit in Hillsboro and how special events like Holly Days bring joy and togetherness.
~Anna Kappler
Community Outreach
Cornelius Holiday Tree Lighting
Shared from the City of Cornelius
The City of Cornelius will kick off the holiday season with its 12th Annual Holiday Tree Lighting on Friday, December 6, 2024, at 6 PM at Veterans Memorial Park (1251 Baseline Street, between 12th and 13th Street).
The evening will be filled with magic as snow flurries fall and Santa and Mrs. Claus, alongside Mayor Jef Dalin, light up the Holiday Tree at 6:05 PM. After the tree lighting, the celebration continues at Cornelius Elementary School (200 N 14th Ave, Cornelius, OR 97113), where over 100 local students will perform songs in both English and Spanish. Performances will include the Cornelius Elementary School Choir, Neil Armstrong Middle School Choir and Orchestra, and the Forest Grove High School Choir.
The community can also enjoy free champurrado (a warm, seasonal drink) and cookies, and take photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus.
It’s a night of festive cheer, community spirit, and holiday magic—don’t miss the chance to kick off the season in a memorable way!
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Forest Grove Holiday Light Parade - Saturday, December 7th
Shared from Forest Grove Police
 This Saturday is gonna be a big one here in town, capping off with the annual Holiday Light Parade, which will start at 5 p.m. and run through 7 p.m... providing Santa's reindeer stay on schedule.
There's a new, longer route this year to accommodate the growing number of displays, which means additional road closures that drivers will need to be mindful of during the evening hours.
Staging for the parade will be along "B" Street between 23rd Ave & Camino; staging starts at 3 p.m.
The parade route is now as follows:
Starting Line: B Street & 23rd Ave ⟶ Main Street ⟶ Pacific Avenue ⟶ Finish Line: Pacific & B Street
Please note that these roads will be temporarily closed for the event. Please help us keep spectators and participants safe by driving cautiously in the surrounding area.
And don't forget! There are loads of other activities happening around town throughout the day, including the City Club of Forest Grove's Artisans Market at the Community Auditorium from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., and opportunities for treats, crafts, and more at local businesses.
Oh, and please do come by the Forest Grove City Library where our awesome neighbors are hosting some crafts and live music. We'll be hanging out with hot cocoa - we look forward to seeing you!
Happy Holiday in the Grove, ya'll!
Holiday Kermés - Echo Shaw Elementary School
Shared from Forest Grove/Cornelius Chamber of Commerce
 Join us for our first ever Holiday Kermés at Echo Shaw Elementary on Saturday Dec.7th from 12-4pm!
What is a holiday Kermes?
A kermés is a traditional community festival often held in Mexican and Latin American cultures, similar to a fair or carnival. It usually features a lively mix of food stands, games, artisan vendors, music, and family-friendly entertainment. These events are a beloved part of many communities, providing a fun way for people to come together, celebrate, and enjoy traditional foods and activities.
Our Holiday Kermés will be highlighting local vendors and creating a festive atmosphere perfect for all ages!
FREE ENTRY AND FUN FOR THE FAMILY!
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¡Únase a nosotros para nuestra primera Kermés Navideña en la Escuela Primaria Echo Shaw el sábado 7 de diciembre de 12 a 4 pm!
¿Qué es una Kermés?
Una kermés es un festival comunitario tradicional, común en las culturas mexicana y latinoamericana, similar a una feria o carnaval. Suele contar con una animada mezcla de puestos de comida, juegos, artesanías, música y entretenimiento familiar. Estos eventos son una parte querida de muchas comunidades, brindando una forma divertida de reunirse, celebrar y disfrutar de comidas y actividades tradicionales.
¡Nuestra Kermés Navideña destacará a vendedores locales y creará un ambiente festivo perfecto para todas las edades!
¡ENTRADA GRATIS Y DIVERSIÓN PARA TODA LA FAMILIA!
Giving Box Hillsboro and Teen Gift Drive
Shared from Just Create Community
Join Just Create Community and Medicare Marks Fuchs, LLC this Holiday Season in support of the families of the WESTERN FARM WORKERS ASSOCIATION: (www.wfwahillsboro.org):
Create a “GIVING BOX HILLSBORO” Reverse Advent Calendar food donation box, now through Dec 20th. Each box will go to an individual WFWA family. See attached poster for list of items needed. Email Cindy Cosenzo to participate at ccosenzo@justcreatecommunity.com.
Choose a gift in our online “TEEN GIFT DRIVE” and donate items requested by WFWA teens. Scan QR code in the poster or use this link. Teens are often last on wish lists—thank you for giving generously this year! Email Monica Fuchs at monica@medicaremarkfuchs.com with any questions.
Thank you for supporting the hardworking WFWA families in our community and turning your care into action.
Holiday Wishlist for Washington County Foster Youth
Winter Craft Fair and City View Charter School - December 13th
Additional Resources
Senate District 15 – Event Calendars
Federal Delegation Links
Education Links
Food and Housing Assistance
Be good to yourself and each other. ❤
Onward & Upward,
 Senate District 15 lies on Kalapuya land. The Atfalati were the northernmost band of the Kalapuya that lived along the Tualatin River in present day Washington County. Many of the Atfalati descendants are members of the Confederated Tribes of the Grand Ronde Community of Oregon today. The Indigenous Peoples of this land experienced a painful history of colonial violence, sickness and removal from their land. The Atfalati are the foundation of Oregon's past and we must honor them well into our future.
Capitol Phone: 503-986-1715
Capitol Address: 900 Court St. NE, S-207, Salem, Oregon 97301
Email: Sen.JaneenSollman@oregonlegislature.gov
Website: http://www.oregonlegislature.gov/sollman
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