July 23, 2015

I sat in a meeting this week with Commissioner Fish and the Bureau of Environmental Services (BES). I learned that BES has a high school summer internship pilot program, which is allowing 65 high school students to be out in the field. These students will then gain experience and knowledge to have a successful career. They are also taking advantage of networking and making connections. The students inspire me because they are already thinking ahead about how they can be successful.

I really enjoy sitting in meetings with Nick because there is so much going on behind the scenes. There are so many different ideas for how Portland can grow. Many organizations, nonprofits, and citizens wants to improve Portland, but need help and support from Council. I really enjoy listening to the feedback and comments Nick has for them. In the end, they need to have a good selling argument to make their case.

As for my goodbye lunch gathering, the Fish family had it at the Nel Centro restaurant. The restaurant is connected to the Hotel Modera downtown. I got to shake hands with the owner, David Machado. David is also the chef, and owns two other Portland restaurants as well. Lunch was great, the food is amazing. I had the chicken salad with grapes and walnuts. The salad dressing is what made it so delicious!!!