President’s Message
by Al Ellis, BWNA Board President
As the emergence of spring blossoms is a symbol of renewal and vitality, so is our neighborhood’s awakening from the long, chilly winter a harbinger of vibrancy. It’s out the door we go into the open spaces! Count the baby strollers, the dog walkers, the joggers, the bicyclists, the gardeners, the kids playing in the park.
For many years, BWNA had a Parks and Open Spaces Committee charged with making recommendations to the BWNA board on matters associated with Wilshire Park and other outdoor areas in the neighborhood. But after the committee chair moved, participation waned, eventually drying up completely.
Then came board member Gary Hancock to the rescue. An environmentalist at heart, in 2018 Gary took the lead in organizing a new committee called Friends of Wilshire Park (FoWP) to replace Parks and Open Spaces.
Focused on improving and enhancing Beaumont-Wilshire’s lovely but senescent Wilshire Park, the committee solicited public input on park needs, prioritized those needs, and proposed projects costing tens of thousands of dollars — which Portland Parks & Recreation was willing to approve, provided the vast majority of the costs were funded by the neighborhood!
Thanks in no small part to Gary’s passion, vision, and diligence, the ambitious fundraising goals were met and projects implemented. Read about this against-all-odds story at friendsofwilshirepark.org/donate.
Mary Roney, head of volunteering and fundraising for FoWP, summed it up this way: “As a result of his leadership, the dogs have water, the kids have a playground, and we all have a serene NatureScape. Gary’s efforts have contributed to a vibrant community space for all of us.”
But another twist to the tale was in store: At last December’s general meeting, Gary made the surprise announcement that he would be stepping down from his at-large board position to free up time for other environmental pursuits, thus creating two “open spaces” within BWNA — FoWP committee chair, since filled by Mary Roney, and an open board position. In addition, perhaps a new Open Spaces Committee will be created to focus on beautification (e.g., graffiti cleanup).
There’s an opportunity for the community-minded to fill the remaining open board position. BWNA’s annual elections will be held at a general meeting on April 14. Walk, jog, or ride over — no obligation. Meet neighbors and consider serving.
Questions? Contact me by emailing President@BWNApdx.org