Clackamas County Tax Assessor Annual meeting was held in November. This presentation included information on property values, veteran’s exemptions, and senior citizen tax deferral programs. Medicare enrollment workshop was also held which provided individual counseling appointments for anyone. We enjoyed a visit from a group of seniors from the Mollala senior center who had lunch with us and learned about the programs we offer.

Seniors

With winter approaching and the holidays upon us, opportunities to attend holiday events and local trips were the focus for the seniors. A group went to dinner at Paola and then saw a theatre performance of the “Wizard of Oz” by Sandy High School students. Several also went to the movies at Sandy Cinema and had dinner at Smoky Hearth. Monthly, a group of seniors also visit local restaurants to enjoy breakfast. Other trips included shopping at the Canby Christmas Bazaar, Movies at Regal Cinema in Gresham, and a dine out at Clyde’s

This month we took a group of our Respite Care participants on a trip to the mountain to enjoy breakfast at Government Camp and the beautiful views of the mountains. The caregivers greatly appreciated this full day break in addition to the weekly program. We continue to see an increase in participation in our weekly program and the need for possible adding an additional day per week.

Recreation

Mountain Storm Youth Basketball for grades 3-6 kicked off the year with early-season open gyms and skill assessments. Close to 20 teams will begin practicing and playing games in January. The popular K-2 program for building FUNdamentals was very successful in November with two full groups meeting at Firwood Elementary on Mondays.

Planning and scheduling Winter/Spring programs was a big focus in November and new programs will be launched for Winter/Spring and Summer 2020. 
Maestro Music continues to grow its program in Sandy and offers music classes for all ages.

Special Events

Planning for one of our biggest fundraising efforts for the Meals on Wheels program is in full swing. The Breakfast with Santa event is a great community event held on Saturday, Dec. 7th from 7:00 am – 12:00 pm. It includes a full breakfast including pancakes, sausage, eggs, juice, and coffee. Photos with Santa are available, Christmas card making for Meals on Wheels participants, and a Christmas bazaar. Staff spent time seeking out sponsorships and raffle prizes from local businesses.

Carol is also looking into a grant for another new innovative event. She is working with Mt. Hood Athletic Center and some local breweries to set up a cornhole competition in the summer.

Additional planning efforts are in the works for a fundraising event to contribute to a scholarship fund for youth recreation activities.

Parks

ESA will hold two kickoff meeting for the Parks Master Plan at the Community Center on Tuesday, December 3rd. One will be with the city staff and the other is with the Technical Advisory Committee.