Now here's a good idea: if you need a tool for a project—don't buy it—check it out from the local tool library. That's just what NE neighbors will be able to do as of July 19th with the opening of the NE Portland Tool Library at NE 20th and Killingsworth.All you need to check out equipment is a NE Portland address and one form of ID. Borrow. Return. Repeat.If you have a tool to donate, contact Tom at tomscot51@yahoo.com or more...

Believe it or not, the OLCC has relaxed its rules on alcohol delivery. Oregonians can call their local grocer and schedule same-day delivery of wine and/or beer in unlimited quantities. Not so fast—orders must be placed by 9 a.m. and delivered by 9 p.m. New Seasons is now on speed dial... more...

The fashion forecast for Fall 2008 is modern, sleek, and sexy.That's right. TriMet is pimping your ride with 22 new Siemens "S70/Avanto" light rail vehicles. This model is currently used in Houston, Texas; San Diego, California; Charlotte, North Carolina; and Paris, France.  An improved interior layout leaves space for eight more seats per train plus additional standing room. While existing MAX trains can carry up to more...

You knew this had to be true...From the Portland Business Journal:Portland is among the top five best cities for architecture and design, according to an independent study conducted by one of the world's leading architectural practices.Looking at 10 criteria including architecture awards, "green" design and public transit systems, New York-based RMJM Hillier, the North American division of the worldwide architecture firm RMJM, more...

At two meetings this week, the Portland School Board will listen to the community as a first step toward appointing a new board director to represent Zone 4 in North and Northeast Portland. The new appointee will fill the final year in the term of Dan Ryan, who is resigning to lead the Portland Schools Foundation.Before they start accepting applications, board directors want to hear from students, parents, teachers, staff and interested more...

We here at Neighborhood Notes are looking to switch to bicycles for many of our daily errands and running around the central city. I used to ride both a road and mountain bike a fair amount. However, planning, designing, and launching the new website curtailed my "joy" rides. It doesn't look like that is going to change any time soon. So rather than look at my old rides and feel guilty, I am looking to acquire a city bike so more...

InSight Visioning and Planning, a group of PSU students in the Master of Urban and Regional Planning Program (MURP), worked in cooperation with Central Northeast Neighbors' community advisory group to develop a Vision Plan for NE 82nd, Imagine 82nd-What could it be? The Plan includes three Vision Concepts: The Commercial Corridor; The Professional Corridor; and The Community's True Main Street. The Plan will help guide the work of more...

Yet another reason to visit Portland and relish the fact that we live here—the artisan distillery scene is booming!From the Seattle Times...PORTLAND — You know folks in the southeastern part of this city reckon they are on to something big because the nickname game has commenced. Should the district be "Distillery Row"? "Libation Alley"? You get the picture.The small craft distillery scene has hit more...

At Portland Bunco, there's always room for one more at the table. If you've got bunco fever and want to meet other Portland women who like to roll the dice, this is the group for you!So, what's bunco?Bunco is a dice game played with three dice and two teams per table. Points are accumulated and prizes are awarded. It is an easy game to pick up and with the right group, the evening can be an absolutely hysterical laughfest!How did more...

The Regional Arts & Culture Council (RACC) invites nonprofit organizations and individual artists to submit proposals for artistic projects and cultural events that are planned for calendar year 2009.Awards range from $1,000 to $6,000 and are available in two categories: Artistic Focus and Neighborhood Arts.An orientation for not-for-profit organizations will be held Thursday,July 10, 2008, 11:00am – 1:00pm“Intent to more...