by Annmarie Phelan, Resolutions Northwest volunteer mediator

Conflict happens in the best of neighborhoods and to the best of neighbors: dogs bark, music is played, fences are altered, tenants and landlords disagree. It is the response to such conflict that determines how satisfying life in your community will be. At times you can resolve the conflict on your own, and other times you need some guidance. For the situations when you want some assistance, there is Resolutions Northwest’s (RNW) Neighborhood Mediation Program, providing services at no cost to Portland residents. Mediation allows you and your neighbor to sit down and have a conversation, facilitated by a neutral, third-party mediator. More than 90% of mediations end in an agreement that works for everyone involved. And most mediations require just one 2-hour session. So, before your next conflict gets out of  hand, contact Resolutions Northwest at 503-595-4890 or on the web at www.resolutionsnorthwest.org, and we’ll assist you in finding a solution that works for both you and your neighbor.

The Northeast Coalition of Neighborhoods (NECN) invites you to connect with North and Northeast Portland’s leading practitioners for dynamic presentations and discussions about trends and resources in education, health care, food, transportation, capital, jobs and housing.  Join two focus areas to  both learn and share your knowledge as we begin a community asset mapping project.  Create your own new connections as we discuss the components of a healthy community!

When: Tuesday, April 3rd, 7pm to 9pm, Doors Open at 6pm for networking and snacks
Where: OAME, 4134 North Vancouver Ave.
Who: The Community Economic Development Council of the Northeast Coalition of Neighborhoods

During these busy times when life is so full and complicated, it's good to slow down and take the time to relax and realize what we have around us.  I hope we can all make some connections to help us enrich our neighborhood.

So, let's make the most of this beautiful day
Since we're together we might as well say
Would you be mine, could you be mine
Won't you be my neighbor?

Please drop by for a visit on Sunday, April 15 from 2:30pm - 5:30pm at our home, 3622 NE 18th. This is a kid- (and adult-) friendly event with some offerings of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages as well as an assortment of other snacks.  Please feel free to bring your own libation and/or edible to share.  RSVP not necessary.