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With more challenges than ever facing our community, we need strong leadership from business, government and the nonprofit sectors. We need more people who see how these challenges will impact the region's long-term health and can come up with creative solutions.

To support and grow, individuals interested in getting involved the Alliance created the Leadership Portland program in 2003. The program has now graduated well over 200 participants who have a better understanding of the Portland region, how public policy is shaped and what issues we need to address. The graduates also have undertaken community impact projects in order to make Portland a better place.

In putting together this year's class, which kicked off last month, the demand for leadership training and development was higher than usual. We had a record number of applicants, and from them selected 50 individuals to participate in two classes that will run simultaneously this year. This high demand shows that, even in tough times, people continue to be interested in programs that focus on our community and what we can all do to make the Portland-region a great place to live, work and play. As we continue to strengthen this program, we'll be reaching out to you for prospective participants and help in making sure topics are relevant, timely and touch on the issues that we really need to be addressing.

But as we continue to grow our leaders, we also need to recognize the individuals who have dedicated their time and energy to make Portland our preferred place to live and work. One individual who we will be honoring on November 4 at our annual Business Leadership Evening is J. Clayton Hering, President of Norris, Beggs & Simpson. Clayton is receiving the annual William S. Naito Award for Outstanding Service, which goes to a recognized leader who has committed years of service to our community.

Clayton has been involved with so many organizations that it would be nearly impossible to list them all in this column. When help is needed, he is always the first to raise his hand and commit to the cause. Clayton is one of downtown's most ardent supporters. In 2002, he started the Holiday Lighting program, which gives our downtown retailers support during those critical shopping months and brings a sense of cheer during the dark winter days. This program now includes roughly 700 trees along 70 blocks in the downtown core.

It is our hope that through the Leadership Portland program and the recognition of citizens like Clayton that more people will get involved and make Portland an even better place to do business and raise a family.

2. Tax measures qualify for ballot, funds still needed for tax referendum campaign

The Secretary of State's Elections Division announced late last week that the two petitions referring the two tax increases to the ballot both qualified. Both signature amounts were far and above number needed to qualify the measures, which demonstrates that Oregonians don't think the legislature's two permanent tax increases are the way to fix the state's 11.9 percent unemployment rate and get people back to work. In fact, economists estimate the measures will cause the state to lose an additional 70,000 jobs.

In January, a special election will be held and and voters will get their chance to say NO to the biggest business and personal income tax increase in Oregon history. Economists estimate that these permanent tax increases could cost 70,000 jobs in the state.

"There was a better way," said Alliance President Sandra McDonough. "The Alliance, with other business organizations, was prepared to support a package that included more modest and temporary measures to address this temporary government revenue problem, while protecting jobs for Oregonians. We still believe that is the more appropriate course for our state."

In order to be successful in January, the campaign needs active volunteers to keep the campaign momentum alive. You can become an official member of Oregonians Against Job-Killing Taxes campaign, posting campaign signs and writing letters to the editor. To become a volunteer or to donate funds, go to www.stopjobkillingtaxes.com.

The Alliance PAC has supported the referral, and has made donations to it as well as to other political candidates and measures endorsed by the Board of Directors. If you would like to be part of the Alliance PAC, click here to donate online. Or mail a contribution to Alliance PAC, 200 SW Market, Suite 150, Portland, OR 97201.

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3. Alliance weighs in on new Sidewalk Management Plan

Portland City Council recently released its proposed initial concepts for a new Sidewalk Management Plan. The Alliance and Portland Downtown Services (PDSI), also known as the downtown business improvement district, supports the initial concepts and hopes the plan will go into place soon.

"The Alliance has been working with the city for many years to find solutions that balances the needs of residents, employees and visitors for a safe, clean and inviting sidewalk environment, while ensuring that we have programs and facilities to serve the homeless population," said Sandra McDonough, president and CEO of the Portland Business Alliance, in a letter to the city.

"The Alliance appreciates the continued leadership from Mayor Adams and other members of council on this issue and believes that, in coordination, the new program can provide an integrated management framework to address both chronic and episodic issues in the central city."

The new Sidewalk Management Plan was one of the topics discussed at a Downtown Retail Town Hall organized by the Alliance in mid-September. Mayor Sam Adams and Commissioner Nick Fish heard from more than 75 downtown retailers, restaurateurs and property owners about an increase in livability issues during the summer months. Alliance board chair, Charles Wilhoite, also discussed these issues and possible solutions in a recent opinion piece in The Oregonian. Read the article >>

A full copy of the letter on the new plan can be found on the Alliance Web site. As the plan moves forward, the Alliance will continue to reach out for input from members.

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DOWNTOWN SERVICES

4. Alliance advocates for new downtown urban renewal district

In a presentation to the Portland Development Commission in early October, the Alliance urged the commission to support a new urban renewal district in downtown to ensure the central city remains to be the vital, economic hub that it currently is.

"Downtowns are mixed use centers that are complex and need continual maintenance and upgrading," said Sandra McDonough, president and CEO of the Alliance. "We have had a longstanding commitment from the community, the private sector and the public leadership in keeping our downtown and all its components viable. But this job is not complete. We cannot count on investments we made in 1970, 1990, and 2009 to carry us forward to 2040."

The Alliance, which worked closely with a diverse group of downtown stakeholders, identified several critical themes as a basis for creating a new downtown urban renewal area. Those themes included:

The Alliance also believes that the region is looking to downtown to play a major role in not only the city's economic development strategy, but also the region's land use and transportation strategies. Metro's growth strategies anticipate significant growth over the next 20 years and downtown will be able to absorb a high percentage of the growth, due to the existing investment in transportation and infrastructure that is concentrated in downtown.

The city's Economic Development Strategy calls for 10,000 new jobs over the next five years, many in the central city. And the City-County Carbon Action Plan also calls for a 40 percent reduction in carbon emissions by 2030. This plan assumes that downtown will play a major role in carbon reduction, given its accessibility to transit and high density, walkable environment.

"In order to support these other plans, downtown needs to be ready for employers to locate in the downtown along with housing that is affordable and proximate to jobs," said McDonough.

The Alliance is participating in the city's Westside Urban Renewal Evaluation Committee. The committee will determine if a new urban renewal district should be formed in the central city, and if so, what areas should be included for investment. For more information, please visit the project Web site: www.pdc.us/four/ccstudy/default.asp.

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5. Eleven more BigBellies hit downtown streets

Through a partnership between the City of Portland and the Portland Business Alliance, 11 more solar-powered trash compactors have been installed around the central city. Sponsors for the new additions are: Melvin Mark and City Center Parking properties, Bank of California and Crown Plaza; Clean & Safe program funded by downtown property owners; and NW Natural Gas.

"Portland is excited about this opportunity and appreciates the efforts of the Alliance to put this program together," said Mayor Sam Adams. "This project reflects the city's commitment to sustainability and presents exciting opportunities for future efficiencies and savings."

The Portland Business Alliance facilitates the donation of BigBelly units to the City of Portland. The units are cordless and completely solar-powered with an efficient energy-management system that allows the units to operate even during cloudy weeks. Once the units are installed, the city maintains them. The units will help city cut back on trash pickup and prevent overflow of waste. These effects also lead to better air quality for the city; if all trashcans were converted to BigBelly units, the city could reduce CO2 emissions by at least 25,000 pounds per year.

The program was started last year at the urging of Greg Goodman of City Center Parking who purchased and installed two units at Broadway and Morrison and 5th Avenue and Morrison.

The Alliance has commitments for 15 more machines slated for a November deliver date and sponsors will include Hoffman Construction, TMT Development, Zimmer Gunsel Frasca, Gerding Edlen Development, US Bank, Portland General Electric, and Aspen Investments. Early adopters of the BigBelly trashcans were the Oregon Zoo, City Center Parking, and Unico Properties.

The Portland Business Alliance will be working with businesses to donate more units. If interested, contact Lisa Frisch at 503.224.8684. More information about the program and how to donate and sponsor a BigBelly can be found at: www.portlandadoptabelly.com.

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6. Sidewalk Ambassadors' new "bicycle kiosk" a big hit

This month, the Sidewalk Ambassadors added a new information distribution tool to the program - a bicycle kiosk. The bicycle, a Kona Xtracycle, has high freight capacity, which allows the Ambassadors to carry informational brochures in an eye-catching way. The bike and accessories were purchased from Bike Gallery, an Alliance member, at their SW 10th and Salmon location.

"People on the street our seeking us out more than ever because of the bike," said Marcus Marchand, Sidewalk Ambassador. "Already it has proven itself as a valuable way to get information out quickly and strike up conversations with downtown's many visitors, residents and workers."

The new kiosk reflects the city's commitment to sustainability as well as its bike culture and allows the Ambassadors to quickly respond to any need for information and assistance.

The new bicycle kiosk is in addition to a cart kiosk, which is usually set up in key, high pedestrian areas. Over the peak summer tourists, five Ambassadors helped those in need of assistance. Currently, three ambassadors can be found in the central city from 10:00 - 6:00 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday.

MEMBERSHIP SERVICES

Get your tickets now before it is sold out - the Alliance's Business Leadership Evening is around the corner! More than 500 business and civic leaders attend this gala celebrating business and honoring a longtime business leader.

This year J. Clayton Hering, President of Norris, Beggs & Simpson is receiving the annual William S. Naito Award for Outstanding Service. Neal Keny-Guyer, CEO of Mercy Corps is the keynote speaker.

Tables of 10 are $1,200 and individual tickets are $125. Don't miss this event to network with high level executives and civic leaders, see old friends and celebrate everything business does for the greater Portland region. Buy your table or tickets now >>

8. Leadership Portland starts 2010 class, welcome reception Oct. 22

The two Leadership Portland classes of 2010 kicked off their year with a retreat at Skamania Lodge where participants got to know one another a bit better, focused on enhancing their leadership skills and were introduced to their Impact Team. Each Impact Team will be completing a Community Impact Project this year.

The program days begin this month with a focus on public safety and the law, sponsored by Perkins Coie and Tonkon Torp LLP. Next month, participants will learn about influence and leadership. A reception welcoming the class will take place on Thursday, October 22 at the new Courtyard by Marriott.

While Willamette University's MBA for Professionals is the program's main sponsor, a few program days are available for sponsorship as well as a sponsorship for the graduation ceremony in June. So if you are interested in marketing your company to Leadership Portland, contact Nick Viele at nviele@portlandalliance.com.

9. Want to reach 30,000 people a month? Advertise with the Alliance

The Alliance Web site is a popular place. With 30,000 unique hits a month, the Alliance is viewed by people in the region, across the state and around the world. While the homepage receives the most hits, the other pages, such as the sections about moving, relocating or visiting Portland are also very popular. So if your business is looking to boost is marketing, put the Alliance Web site into your online advertising mix. More information about Web site advertising and other electric advertising opportunities can be found on the Alliance Web site.

10. BizConnect ramps up for school year - sign up now!

BizConnect, a free service of the Portland Business Alliance, offers businesses the opportunity to connect to the next generation workforce. Whether it be speaking in a classroom, conducting mock interviews or hosting a student at your workplace, BizConnect can connect your company with schools on whatever level makes sense for your business.

With the school year now in full swing, it is the perfect time to get signed up and connect your business with future workers. Contact Billy Solowski for more information on how easy it is to enroll your business with BizConnect, 503.552.6758 or email bsolowski@portlandalliance.com.

11. Golf Scramble draws a crowd, RAB Communications wins tournament

On September 11, more than 100 Alliance members played in the annual Golf Scramble, enjoying beautiful weather at Pumpkin Ridge's award winning Ghost Creek Course and networking throughout the day. Participants then enjoyed a dinner and auction.

12. PGE launches campaign for business energy efficiency

PGE encourages businesses to improve their bottom line and reduce their carbon footprint during its Save More, Matter More campaign. PGE and Energy Trust are offering free energy efficiency consultations to any business that pledges to save energy with the campaign. The consultation will help business owners identify cost-effective projects. Visit PortlandGeneral.com/SaveEnergy for more information.

13. Oregon Convention Center to install largest Portland solar project

The new solar panels will be affixed to the roof and completed by Dec. 31. The panels are expected to generate 10 percent of the Center's electricity needs. The center has earned a LEED Silver-recertification for an existing building from the U.S. Green Building Council. The Center's other green practices include an extensive recycling program, food donation, composting, and use of renewable energy. www.oregoncc.org.

14. Schwabe attorney named president-elect of Hispanic National Bar Association

As president-elect, Roman D. Hernandez, a shareholder with Schwabe, Williamson & Wyatt, will work with the HNBA President Ms. Ramona Romero. In addition to promoting Hispanic involvement in the legal profession, the HNBA, a national nonprofit organization, advocates for the larger Latino community on important public policy issues. Hernandez focuses his practice in employment law and business litigation. For more information on Hernandez and his election, visit www.schwabe.com.

15. David Machado receives 'Restaurateur of the Year' award

David Machado, chef/owner of Portland-based restaurants Lauro Mediterranean Kitchen, Vindalho and Nel Centro was named "Restaurateur of the Year" at the Oregon Restaurant Association's Annual Industry Awards of Distinction dinner held recently in Sunriver, Oregon. ORA's annual Restaurateur of the Year award acknowledges a member restaurateur who has been active with the association as well contributes to the industry.

16. NW Natural president and CEO joins Work for Art as
honorary chair

Gregg Kantor, NW Natural president and CEO, will lend his private and public sector experience to Work for Art as honorary chair of this year's campaign. Kantor will represent the program at community events and help Work for Art achieve its campaign goal of raising $675,000 this year. https://www.nwnatural.com/index.asp.

17. Providence Health & Services partners with
Willamette Falls Hospital

Approved by Oregon's attorney general, the affiliation was official on Oct. 1. The hospital will be known as Providence Willamette Falls Medical Center. Through the rest of the year, employees of both organizations will work closely to join together all services, policies and divisions. The affiliation will bring expanded medical services and help maintain the quality of those services to patients.www.providence.org/home/default.htm.

18. Lifewise offers healthy options for small employers' workforce

With a view toward sustainable costs and benefits that support healthy lifestyles and wellness, LifeWise Health Plan of Oregon announces a new portfolio of small employer health plans. The LifeWise plans aim to provide employers with an affordable, attractive package of benefits that encourage improved health and personal accountability for the long-term while still providing peace of mind for unexpected serious situations. Learn more at www.BoringlyGood.com.

19. Economic report on new Portland Beavers stadium released

A recently released report by Economics Research Associates details the economic impact the proposed Portland Beavers stadium, to be installed in Beaverton, would have on the Washington County area. The report suggests that the construction of the stadium is expected to employ 800 people, while the ongoing operations will employ 300 people. The study bases its assumptions on the impact of 72 Beaver games and does not include the additional impact of other events the stadium may be used for. For more information and a link to the study, visit beavers2beaverton.com.

20. Emerson Hardwood adds to branch teams

The Portland-based wholesale hardwoods distributor has promoted Nate Hart to Eugene branch manager and hired Delynn Vitus as a sales representative. Hart first joined Emerson Hardwood Company at the Portland retail division, Crosscut Hardwoods, in 2006. Vitus has more than 17 years of hardwood industry experience ranging from manufacturing to sales and is a graduate of the National Wood Flooring Association training program. For more information about Emerson Harwood Company go to: www.emersonhardwood.com.

21. World's Largest Office Party - A Benefit for Hands On Greater Portland - October 27

Join Young Professionals of Portland at the Crystal Ballroom as we host a benefit party to support Hands On Greater Portland, and kick off "Young Professionals Civic Engagement Month." Enjoy live music provided by local artists and a plethora of games including poker, basketball and Nintendo Wii. Tickets are $30. To purchase, visit Ticketmaster.com. Date: Tuesday, October 27; 5:30 - 11:00 p.m. McMenamins Crystal Ballroom, 1332 W. Burnside.

22. LCG Pence Construction celebrates 60 years - October 29

Since Dale Pence first strapped on his toolbelt in 1949, LCG Pence has called the Willamette Valley home and has become one of the state's largest general contractors. In celebration of its 60th anniversary, the company is hosting an open house at its Portland office. Date: Thursday, October 29; 4:00 - 7:00 p.m. 2720 SW Corbett Avenue; call 503.252.3802 to RSVP.

23. Upcoming Meetings

October 9, President's Council, noon
October 13, Communications Committee, 8 am
October 14, Sustainability Committee, 7:30 am
October 20, Central City Standing Committee, noon
October 21, Small Business Council, 4 pm
October 28, Government Relations Committee, 4 pm
November 10, Transportation Committee, noon

October 2009 Newsletter

FROM THE CHAIR

1. Growing and Celebrating Leadership

2. Tax measures qualify for ballot, funds still needed for tax referendum campaign

3. Alliance weighs in on new Sidewalk Management Plan

DOWNTOWN SERVICES

4. Alliance advocates for new downtown urban renewal district

6. Sidewalk Ambassadors' new "bicycle kiosk" a big hit

MEMBERSHIP SERVICES

8. Leadership Portland starts 2010 class, welcome reception Oct. 22

9. Want to reach 30,000 people a month? Advertise with the Alliance

10. BizConnect ramps up for school year - sign up now!

11. Golf Scramble draws a crowd, RAB Communications wins tournament

12. PGE launches campaign for business energy efficiency

13. Oregon Convention Center to install largest Portland solar project

14. Schwabe attorney named president-elect of Hispanic National Bar Association

15. David Machado receives 'Restaurateur of the Year' award

16. NW Natural president and CEO joins Work for Art as
honorary chair

17. Providence Health & Services partners with
Willamette Falls Hospital

18. Lifewise offers healthy options for small employers' workforce

19. Economic report on new Portland Beavers stadium released

20. Emerson Hardwood adds to branch teams

21. World's Largest Office Party - A Benefit for Hands On Greater Portland - October 27

22. LCG Pence Construction celebrates 60 years - October 29

23. Upcoming Meetings

October 2009 Newsletter

FROM THE CHAIR

1. Growing and Celebrating Leadership

2. Tax measures qualify for ballot, funds still needed for tax referendum campaign

3. Alliance weighs in on new Sidewalk Management Plan

DOWNTOWN SERVICES

4. Alliance advocates for new downtown urban renewal district

6. Sidewalk Ambassadors' new "bicycle kiosk" a big hit

MEMBERSHIP SERVICES

8. Leadership Portland starts 2010 class, welcome reception Oct. 22

9. Want to reach 30,000 people a month? Advertise with the Alliance

10. BizConnect ramps up for school year - sign up now!

11. Golf Scramble draws a crowd, RAB Communications wins tournament

12. PGE launches campaign for business energy efficiency

13. Oregon Convention Center to install largest Portland solar project

14. Schwabe attorney named president-elect of Hispanic National Bar Association

15. David Machado receives 'Restaurateur of the Year' award

16. NW Natural president and CEO joins Work for Art as honorary chair

17. Providence Health & Services partners with Willamette Falls Hospital

18. Lifewise offers healthy options for small employers' workforce

19. Economic report on new Portland Beavers stadium released

20. Emerson Hardwood adds to branch teams

21. World's Largest Office Party - A Benefit for Hands On Greater Portland - October 27

22. LCG Pence Construction celebrates 60 years - October 29

23. Upcoming Meetings

16. NW Natural president and CEO joins Work for Art as
honorary chair

17. Providence Health & Services partners with
Willamette Falls Hospital