Oregon State University Extension Service
METRO CONNECTION
Photo by Ann Marie Murphy
November & December 2020
News, events, resources and educational articles for our partners,
community leaders, volunteers, friends and family
The office remains closed to the public as the tri-county area remains in Phase 1. Due to the Governors current Freeze order from an increase in COVID cases in the Portland area we are are not available at the office. Call 503-821-1150 to leave a message or question. We will respond as soon as we can.

Washington County Extension in Beaverton 503-821-1150
Messages will be forwarded to appropriate person and calls returned.
Currently staff are on site Tuesday through Thursday 9a.m. to 3p.m.
Click to reach Master Gardeners
Extension in Portland
Angela Sandino, North Willamette Regional Director
Maureen Hosty, 4-H Faculty OSU Portland Center, 555 SW Morrison, Ste 2000.
SNAP-Ed and Nutrition Education Programs:
503-657-7385
A message from Angela Sandino
North Willamette Regional Director

What a year! OSU Extension Service embraced new technology to stay connected and improve engagement with our communities while keeping employees—and you—safer during a pandemic. We sincerely miss the daily interactions with youth, volunteers, industry, community partners and stakeholders, and learners across the age spectrum. Even in these challenging circumstances, OSU Extension continues to be here for you through programming and community outreach.

As our focus shifts to 2021, we are seeking new ways to engage with the people, organizations and municipalities of Washington and Multnomah counties. As we implement and refine our 2020-2025 strategic plan, we are thinking of ways to keep our programming focused, engaging and relevant. That means we must continuously engage in conversations and planning to find opportunities to reach new audiences and expand our thinking and delivery of research-based information. We especially want to deepen our understanding of—and support for—the diverse populations of the counties we serve.

Help us! What ideas do you have for outdoor, virtual and remote programming that will pique your interest? Until such times as we are able to open our office to the public, please email me (Angela Sandino) or call me at 503-821-1150.

We strive to strengthen our service to Washington and Multnomah counties. This newsletter introduces you to our wide array of educational programming, our couldn’t-do-it-without-you volunteers and our OSU online resources.

Take care of yourselves. Here’s to a safe, healthy and vibrant future for all of us!
Thoughts & Thanks

We asked our Extension staff to share a short message to you in this newsletter after this unprecedented year. In a few words: Gratitude, Connection and Community.

Something I have realized about working in our community is how eager people are to help others, even strangers, in times of need. Thank you all! Tanya Kindrachuk, Mult Co 4-H Educator

This year, I realized that the making of history lets no generation off the hook, and while it can be cruel, showing up for it together is the honor of our lifetimes.
Rose Daily, WA Co Fiscal Coordinator

I want readers, leaders and volunteers to know how much their ongoing efforts are appreciated as they continue to serve and support the health of our community. Jenny East, Statewide Oregon Boating Outreach Coordinator

I think what matters most is people! What we do and how we do it in Extension has the ultimate goal of reaching people and bettering their lives.
Jenifer Halter, WA Co Admin and Reception

Hearty thanks to our amazing OSU Master Gardeners; for their generous dedication and passion, empowering others with garden know-how rooted in science! Marcia McIntyre, Metro Master Gardener Representative

This year has not been without its challenges, pain, and stress yet I am hopeful for the future. We are committed to providing you with the best support, resources, workshops, and tools that we can. 
Alice Phillips, WA Co 4-H Educator

I would like our community partners, to know how much we appreciate YOU! Together, we are better for the people of Multnomah County. 
Joanne Lyford, Mult Co SNAP-Ed

Thank you to our fabulous Master Gardener volunteers who worked so hard at answering a record number of the public’s gardening and pest management questions this year. Weston Miller, Metro Area, Consumer Horticulture

Thank you for diving in to adapt and try new things to connect with youth in a constantly shifting learning landscape and sharing what you’ve learned.
Beth St.Amand, STEM Beyond School Coordinator

I am grateful for my Extension colleagues, our wonderful partners and volunteers. Together we strive to make our Washington County community stronger, healthier, and vibrant. Thank you! Vicki Campbell, WA Co Liaison, Center Manager, Newsletter Coordinator
FACIAL MASKS
Pick up KN95 masks before Thanksgiving

Friday, Nov 20 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Tuesday, Nov 24 from 1 to 4 p.m. (if supplies left)

Extension office in Washington County.
See flyer here.
EDUCATION
Outdoor educators take note

Critical Orientations: Indigenous Studies and Outdoor Education course. This course supports outdoor educators in engaging with culturally responsive incorporation of indigenous studies concepts into outdoor education curriculum and programming. Click here for more info.
GARDENING
10 Trees for fiery fall foliage


When trees get dressed with the colors of fall, it’s time to go shopping. If you’re specifically interested in fall color, planting trees or shrubs it is time to start looking. Click here for the full story.
Garden questions?

If you have gardening questions we are standing by to answer your questions via webform, phone or email. Visit us at metromastergardeners.org
• This video celebrates the amazing work of our OSU Master Gardeners
TIME FOR FUN!

Life in 2020 and Extension Word Search

Take a break and give it a try!



FOOD HERO FEATURED RECIPE
Pumpkin Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Pumpkin season is upon us and what better way to celebrate than trying out a new recipe! This hearty main dish is perfect for a cold night. You may want to double the recipe to be sure you have leftovers! Click here for the recipe!
EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS


After an emergency, you may need to survive on your own for several days. A disaster supplies kit is a collection of basic items your household may need in the event of an emergency. Download the info here.
Ask an Expert is a way for you to get answers from the Oregon State University Extension Service. We have experts in family and health, community development, food and agriculture, coastal issues, forestry, programs for young people, and gardening. Please choose your county and enter as much relevant detail about your question as possible. We will do our best to respond to your question within two business days.
Have questions, comments, or suggestions?
We would love to hear what you would like to see in the next issue. Please send your thoughts to us at vicki.campbell@oregonstate.edu.
OSU Extension Service prohibits discrimination in all its programs, services, activities, and materials.