Last week, we jump-started our winter weather protocols when the threat of sleet and snow led to school cancelations across the region. Now, we're going to take a step back to describe our resources and procedures for inclement weather, and answer some questions about the decision-making process for snow routes, delays and closures. We'll also share the best and fastest ways to stay informed in the event of inclement weather. Click here to read more.    

In conjunction with American Education Week, the Hillsboro Chamber will begin accepting nominations for its Crystal Apple Excellence in Education Awards on Monday, November 17. The awards recognize staff members in the categories of licensed, support and administration who go above and beyond to make education a great experience in Hillsboro. Each nominated staff member will be recognized at their school or workplace with a special ceremony and will be invited to attend the Crystal Apple Celebration Dinner on Thursday, February 26, 2015, at which time three winners in each category will be revealed. Click here for more information, to download a nomination form, or purchase tickets to the dinner.

Last Wednesday, November 12, Liberty High School held its annual Veterans Day Celebration. Forty-two veterans participated in this year's event, which began with a breakfast and was followed by an all-school assembly where students were reminded of the importance of remembering and honoring the men and women who have served our country. After the assembly, the veterans spent the day in the library talking to social studies students about their experiences. Leadership students decorated the school and were personal liaisons for the veterans.  They also helped serve a delicious Thanksgiving-themed feast that was catered by the Liberty cafeteria staff.

Tualatin Valley Water District and the City of Hillsboro have partnered to develop the mid-Willamette River at Wilsonville as an additional water supply source for more than 300,000 Washington County residents and some of the state's largest employers for the next 100 years. From Wilsonville, water will be pumped from the treatment plant up to Cooper Mountain, where water storage tanks will be located. From the tanks, water will flow by gravity using two pipelines that will connect to the existing system-one to the east and one to the west. To learn more about the project and the possible routes for the new pipelines, click here or plan to attend the open house at Hillsboro's Main Library (2850 NE Brookwood Parkway) this Thursday, November 20, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.