March is Women’s History Month, so we thought this was the perfect time to ask female neighbors about important women in their lives. Our Perspectives question is:
“What woman has made an impact on your life?”
“My dear friend Shelly Federman, who passed in 2014, was an incredibly creative and brave woman who unflinchingly followed her dreams and helped others do the same.” (Jess, 3 years in B-W)
“The two women that have had the most impact in my life are my mom, Ann, and my daughter, Sophia. They both embody resilience, courage, and empathy, and I continually learn from both of them every day.” (Julia, 10 years in B-W)
“When I think of a woman that had an impact on my life, I immediately think of my grandma. She was always there for me. She was like a second mom and always a safe place to land. She helped shape the person that I am today. She was a strong, independent woman who would do anything for her family. Last October we helped her celebrate her 100th birthday. Sadly, my grandma recently passed. She was such a big part of my life up until the end. She will be missed.” (Tia, 30 years in B-W)
“Carol Bryant, a local theater director in Bend, Ore., had a huge influence in my life at a young age. She directed me in a play when I was a teenager, teaching me the love of theatre. She believed in me, empowered me, and made me feel special—she inspired me to obtain a degree in Theatre Arts and direct a 5th grade play at Alameda Elementary School a few years back. Carol passed away in 2011 at age 85.” (Bianca, 18 years in B-W)
Polly Webber is a realtor and mom of two teenage girls. Born and raised in the neighborhood, she can’t quite shake her original stomping grounds. She purchased and lives in the B-W home next door to her childhood home. Reach her by emailing polly.webber@cascadehassonsir.com.