Talking Tigard

In celebration of the City's 60th Anniversary, former mayors and city councilors are sharing their role in the city's history. Tom Anderson's service with the city began in 2007 with an appointment to the Planning Commission. He continued his service when he was elected to the City Council in 2016. Affordable housing, police services levy, refreshed tree code, and long-term water source were a few issue facing the city during this time.  Tom talks about these issues and shares advice for the next generation of mayors and councilors in Tigard. For Your Playlist: 'September' by Earth, Wind, and Fire Host: Kent Wyatt, Communications Manager

WorkSource Oregon is hosting a series of drive-thru hiring events where job seekers have the opportunity to speak with employers from the comfort of their car. Barbee Williams from WorkSource Oregon provides the details  - what you should bring, which employers will be there, and how to make the most of the opportunity. For Your Playlist: "We Are the World"  Host: Kent Wyatt, Communications Manager

In celebration of the City's 60th Anniversary, former mayors and city councilors are sharing their role in the city's history. Liz Newton grew up in East Washington County and has been an active member of the Tigard community for more than 38 years. For the last 12 years before her 2017 retirement, she served as assistant city manager. She was elected to the city council in 2018. In this interview, she shares memories of Nick Wilson, Girod's Super Market, First Bank of Tigard, and Tigard Plaza. Also, she shares the recent accomplishments of the City Council. For Your Playlist: 'All Things Must Pass' by George Harrison Host: Kent Wyatt, Communications Manager

In celebration of the City's 60th Anniversary, former mayors and city councilors share their role in the city's history.  Former Mayor Craig Dirksen reflects on how a desire to increase the number of parks in Tigard led him to running for office. While serving as mayor, the city increased parks and open space from 288 acres in 2000 to 550 acres by 2014. He also shares what he enjoyed most from serving as mayor and advice for future Tigard mayors and councilors.  For Your Playlist: 'I Get Around' by The Beach Boys Host: Kent Wyatt, Communications Manager

In 2011, Tigard High School students selected U.S History teacher Murray Carlisle as their graduation speaker. He advised students to "do something to help other people. Do something where you give back to your community, to your state, to your nation." In this interview, Murray talks about his approach to teaching, including the challenge of teaching to an empty classroom last year. He also shares the books and movies that help him continue to learn about our country's history. For Your Playlist: "End of the World" by REM Host: Kent Wyatt, Communications Manager

Three years ago, the City Council gave voice to the Tigard youth by creating a Youth Councilor position. Aishiki Nag is the third person to serve in the role.  From park cleanup events to voter registration drives, Aishiki shares what she hopes to accomplish during the one-year term.  Also, she talks about her favorite Tigard High School class and teacher, importance of the COVID vaccine, and advice for public speaking. For Your Playlist: Last Great American Dynasty by Taylor Swift Host: Kent Wyatt, Communications Manager

Earlier this year, Just Compassion received a $4 million dollar allocation in America Rescue Plan funding to build transitional housing and an expanded resource center in Tigard. Vernon Baker, Just Compassion Executive Director, shares how this new campus will make it easier for individuals experiencing houselessness to connect with the services that they need.  For Your Playlist: I Believe I Can Fly  Host: Kent Wyatt, Communications Manager 

From cover letter to salary negotiations, Mac Prichard, founder of Mac's List and author of Land Your Dream Job, shares tips for every step of your next job search.  Also, learn about the importance of your LinkedIn page, tips for a virtual interview, and how to leave a lasting impression with an interview panel. Visit the Mac's List website  (URL: macslist.org) Listen to the Mac's podcast, Find Your Dream Job (URL: macslist.org/podcasts) Connect with Mac on LinkedIn (URL: https://www.linkedin.com/in/macprichard/). For Your Playlist: 9 to 5 by Dolly Parton Host: Kent Wyatt, Communications Manager

Tigard High School graduate and Portland Gear brand manager Zack Dean talks about the explosive growth of Portland Gear and their role in redesigning the Portland Winterhawks logo and merchandise.  Also, Zack reflects on the teachers and classes that inspired him at Tigard High and a memorable DC trip with the Youth Advisory Council. For Your Playlist: On Time by Surfaces Host: Kent Wyatt, Communications Manager

The inaugural Tigard Government Organizing and Leadership Development (GOLD) cohort graduated eight community members from a variety of backgrounds – including immigrants, refugees, and U.S. citizens of Iraqi, Mexican, Somali and Turkish heritages. Cohort graduate Aadil Mohamed shares lessons learned including how to effectively present to the City Council. He shares the story of his family's journey to the United States and how that serves as his daily motivation.  Also, Aadil talks about serving on the Tigard Youth Advisory Council, interning at Nike, and predicting the NBA Finals. For Your Playlist: Memories by Adam Levine Host: Kent Wyatt, Communications Manager  

Five years into the Lake Oswego-Tigard water partnership, Jennifer Joe and Kevin McCaleb discuss the partnership's commitment to water quality and water conservation. They share how your water comes from the Clackamas River, one of the highest quality sources in Oregon. Also, hear about the right time to sign up for a free water audit. Host: Kent Wyatt, Communications Manager

Five years into the Lake Oswego and Tigard water partnership, Mayor Snider and Mayor Buck share the origins of how the cities came together to provide high-quality drinking water to 100,000 customers.  The Mayors also debate the best college (Willamette University v. University of Portland), best use of water, and best things about each city. Host: Kent Wyatt, Communications Manager  

From design to installation, local artist Emily Lux talks about the process for creating Tigard’s new community mural. Learn about the inspiration for the mural, importance of public participation, and value of public murals.  For Your Playlist: Here Comes the Sun Host: Kent Wyatt, Communications Manager

Alex Dupey, MIG's Director of Planning Services and Rick Gruen, Tigard's Manager of Parks, Recreation, and Green Infrastructure, talk about the future of parks and rec in Tigard, including the use of an equity lens in decision-making. They also issue a challenge for at least 1,000 community members to complete the ongoing survey. And, Alex and Rick share their Mt. Rushmore of parks and favorite character from Parks & Rec. For Your Playlist: Sweet Caroline Host: Kent Wyatt, Communications Manager

Hendrik Broekelschen, a program coordinator for the City of Tigard, talks about the return of Streets for People, the debut of Move4May, and the continuation of Safe Routes to School. You'll also learn about pizza toppings, naps, and bike adventures. For Your Playlist: The Long and Winding Road by The Beatles Host: Kent Wyatt, Communications Manager  

Dr. Ame Lambert, Vice President for Global Diversity and Inclusion for Portland State University, shares how the responsibility of equity and inclusion work belongs to everyone. At Portland State, she is developing a 12 to 18 month plan to build the thread of racial equity throughout students, faculty, and staff. You will also hear about the ways to engage children in difficult conversations about race. Whether talking with children or co-workers, she urges you to lean into the conversations and work. One of the ways to do this is by ‘expanding your capacity for discomfort.’ And for your playlist… Dr. Lambert suggests adding ‘Glory’ by John Legend and Common. And for your reading list… books by Beverly Jenkins. Host: Kent Wyatt, Communications Manager

Mary Sawyers, Washington County Public Health Communicator, shares the latest on the COVID-19 vaccine, including: How to schedule an appointment The amount of available vaccine The importance of equity in distributing the vaccine When we'll reach herd immunity She also stresses the need to wear a mask even after getting the vaccine. Host: Kent Wyatt, Communications Manager  

Ryan Ruggiero, chair of the Town Center Advisory Commission, leads you on a tour of downtown Tigard by sharing his favorite spots and previewing future improvements.  You'll also hear about the importance of volunteering, best pizza place in the Portland area, and best moment of 2021 so far.  Host: Kent Wyatt, Communications Manager

Travis Diskin, creator of Curiosities Vintage Mall, shares the story behind relocating from Beaverton to Tigard. You'll also hear about the challenges of managing a business during COVID-19 and how the business community banded together to support each other. Outside of his work at Curiosities, Travis talks about the need for an ice cream shop in downtown, the music of the B-52's, and his pet June. Host: Kent Wyatt, Communications Manager  

DeAngeloa Wells and Jake Wise discuss Portland General Electric's diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts and how those efforts are attracting a workforce of individuals from different backgrounds and experiences, with different styles, approaches and ways of looking at things. They also discuss skydiving, talk show hosts, and Notary Sojac. Host: Kent Wyatt, Communications Manager

Kevin Robinson and Michelle Cooper get you ready for the 2021 Tigard Little League season. After losing much of last season to COVID, Tigard Little League leaders and volunteers worked diligently to ensure a safe and fun season in 2021. They also discuss the challenges of coaching their own children, Mayor Snider's pitching ability, and their favorite MLB team. Host: Kent Wyatt, Communications Manager         Host: Kent Wyatt, 

Dr. Andrew Henderson gives you a behind the scenes look at opening a new business during COVID-19. The Smile Lounge opened in 2021 to provide dental services to the Tigard community. You'll also learn about their partnership with the Shadow Project.  The Shadow Project creates sensory spaces in local schools and sends out sensory kits to kids in our community.  Host: Kent Wyatt, Communications Manager

Kaitlyn Leaf, Recreation Coordinator, shares the latest from recreation including the Cook Park Virtual 5K, Fitness Walk on the Fanno Creek Trail, and virtual Egg Hunt. She also shares how you can influence future recreation programming.  You will also learn about Kaitlyn's career path, favorite park, and impressive dodgeball skills. Song for Your Playlist: Parks & Recreation theme song Host: Kent Wyatt, Communications Manager 

Tom Briggs and Cleon Cox discuss the 40-year history of Toastmasters in Tigard. They also provide tips for public speaking and giving meaningful evaluations.  Host: Kent Wyatt, Communications Manager

Danny Rauda talks about his work as the Social Justice Coordinator for St. Anthony's Church, including raising awareness about Human Trafficking Awareness Month.  He also shares why he applied for the Public Safety Advisory Board (PSAB) and the early work of the PSAB. Theme music: "I've Got Sunshine" by The Temptations  Host: Kent Wyatt, Communications Manager

Jeanne Peloquin, Tigard Library and Kate Ristau, Tigard Library Board member, discuss the current services offered by the library, development of the Library's strategic plan, and ways that you can share your input. They also discuss the: Bookmobiles Card catalog Dewey Decimal System Mt. Rushmore of books Host: Kent Wyatt, Communications Manager

Carla Staedter, City of Tigard Project Coordinator, discusses the importance of stormwater management in addressing erosion, water quality, and flooding. She describes how the stormwater fee allows the city to address these three areas. She also talks about: Restoring 'Drain-o' Creek to Fanno Creek Responding to beaver concerns Picking up after your pooch Growing up in Wisconsin. Host: Kent Wyatt, Communications Manager

Eduardo Ramos, host of the En Contacto podcast, discusses the: origins of the En Contacto podcast minimal costs of podcasting ways to measure success of a podcast  process for selecting guests Eduardo also reveals exclusive details about the BureauCat and what's ahead for 2021. Host: Kent Wyatt, Communications Manager

Michael Holton, former NBA player and current Trail Blazer radio announcer, discusses: Raising a family in Tigard Building a equitable and inclusive community Preparing for Blazer games Playing with Michael Jordan Also, Michael answers questions from the community. Host: Kent Wyatt, Communications Manager

Amber Bell, Readers Services Manager & Joanne Bengtson, Executive Assistant to the City Manager, discuss the city's refreshed strategic plan to be "an equitable community that is walkable, healthy, and accessible for everyone." They also discuss the Library's Walk-Up Service Desk, Tigard Thanks!, Tigard Walks, and cats vs. dogs. Host: Kent Wyatt, Communications Manager  

Kimberly Moreland, member of the Oregon Black Pioneers and author of African Americans of Portland, talks about the impact of Oregon's black exclusionary laws, abolitionists in Tigard, and the racial equity work being done in Tigard. Also, Kimberly shares New Year's resolutions, COVID hobbies, and ideas for future podcast guests.  Host: Kent Wyatt, Communications Manager

From Cook Park to Jack Park to everything in between, the community loves its park system. Martin McKnight, Parks Supervisor, talks about the staffing and funding needed to maintain these assets.  He also shares information on: Whether a splash pad is in Tigard's future When playground equipment will be replaced at Cook Park The importance of the Parks & Rec Fee Host: Kent Wyatt, Communications Manager

Jimmy Brown, a 26-year resident of Tigard, talks about raising a Black family in Tigard, interactions with the Tigard Police Department, and goals for the Public Safety Advisory Board. Also, Jimmy discusses: Volunteer work with the Tigard-Tualatin School District Being a 'hip and aware' parent Importance of putting an equity lens to all city services Host: Kent Wyatt, Communications Manager

Interim City Manager Kathy Nyland and Interim Assistant City Manager/Police Chief Kathy McAlpine discuss the city's recent leadership transition, the role and responsibilities of a city manager, and the city's Anti-Racism Action Plan. They also cover: Pearl Jam Women's basketball Thanksgiving dinner Host: Kent Wyatt, Communications Manager

Chris Sjolin, owner of Cooper Mountain Ale Works, talks about the decision to locate in the space formerly occupied by Max's Fanno Creek Brew Pub.  He also discusses the beer making process, the importance of a walkable downtown, and the Cooper Mountain experience. Host: Kent Wyatt, Communications Manager

Brandi Leos, Senior Human Resources Business Partner for the City of Tigard, discusses our approach to building a workforce that is representative of the community. She also discusses: Questions to ask during an interview Salary negotiations  Thank you note OR no thank you note Host: Kent Wyatt, Communications Manager

Dan Murphy, Managing Director of the Broadway Rose Theater, joins the podcast to talk about the beginning of his career in New York City, the origins of the Broadway Rose in Tigard, and the actor who should play him in a movie. Host: Kent Wyatt, Communications  Manager

Dr. Marvin Lynn, Dean of the College of Education at Portland State University and his son Naasei discuss the community's response to the murder of George Floyd, the history of racial discrimination in the Portland area, and how Tigard can become a more inclusive community. Host: Kent Wyatt, Communications Manager

Rep. Margaret Doherty recaps 11 years in the Oregon legislature including advancing legislation on school nutrition. She also shares her favorite city (Portland or Tigard), the resources needed to run successful campaign, and the story of getting kicked out of the Joy Theatre. Host: Kent Wyatt, Communications Manager

Michael Antonelli, founder and publisher of Tigard Life, talks about his background in the newspaper business, the impetus behind starting Tigard Life, and the articles that resonate with the Tigard community. Host: Kent Wyatt, Communications Manager

Ben Bowman, School Board Member for the Tigard-Tualatin School District and Margie Greene, Executive Director for the Tigard-Tualatin School District Foundation share the origins of Packed with Pride. Each week, Packed with Pride gives away 850 boxes with enough food to get five people through the week. Volunteer or donate: https://packed-with-pride-tigard-tualatin.square.site/ Host: Kent Wyatt, Communications Manager

Maggie Reilly, Business Leader at Craft3 and Nita Shah, Executive Director at Micro Enterprise Services of Oregon discuss working with city staff to create Tigard Commercial Assistance and Relief for Economic Stability (Tigard CARES). Grants were awarded for assistance with rent, payroll, recurring costs and future inventory with a strong focus on resources for businesses that most need help accessing federal and state programs. Host: Kent Wyatt, Communications Manager

Adrianne Driver, Tigard Library, Bruce Poinsette, Respond to Racism, and Denise Taylor, MLK2020: Healing the Divide discuss the creation of the Racial Unity Book Club. They also share resources for learning about racial justice. Host: Kent Wyatt, Communications Manager

Youth Councilor Calderon talks about his recent appointment to the City Council, issues that are important to Tigard youth, and how we can create a more inclusive community. Host: Kent Wyatt, Communications Manager

Tigard High School students Abdi Mohamoud and Sarah Gentry share how students have mobilized after the killing of George Floyd. They discuss drafting a anti-racism resolution for the Tigard-Tualatin School Board, the successful Student March for Black Lives, and what's next.  Host: Kent Wyatt, Communications Manager

Marissa Grass, City of Tigard Community Engagement Coordinator, answers the questions that the community is asking about reopening in Tigard. When will playgrounds be open? Do I need to wear a mask? Are summer camps happening?

Vernon Baker, Executive Director of Just Compassion, discusses how Just Compassion is using the Resident Aid Fund of Tigard to support Tigard community members who are experiencing houselessness.  Also, Vernon offers insight into how the city can take steps to address racial inequities.  Host: Kent Wyatt, Communications Manager  

Editor-in-Chief Mark Miller discusses covering that the community that he grew up in. He also touches on the challenges of reporting during COVID-19 and the importance of maintaining quality community journalism. Host: Kent Wyatt, Communications Manager

Amy Brownell, Second Home, Katrin Dougherty, SupaFresh Youth Farm, and Morgan Bengel, HomePlate Youth Services share how they continue to help the youth of Tigard during the COVID-19 pandemic. Host: Kent Wyatt, Communications Manager

Chief Kathy McAlpine reflects on her career journey, keeping the Tigard community safe, and the increased challenges of policing because of COVID-19. Host: Kent Wyatt, Communications Manager

Congresswoman Bonamici talks about staying connecting with business owners and community members in Tigard during COVID-19, addressing the disproportionate number cases of COVID-19 in the Latino community, and her favorite city in Washington County. Host: Kent Wyatt, Communications Manager