By ANNE SHEVLIN

The daffodils and tulips have begun to pop up, showing their vibrant colors, and the trees are beginning to show their buds. The forecast says

SHEVLIN we will get more rain, but spring is definitely in the air. Early spring is such a lovely time in Charbonneau, as we emerge from our winter weather and get just a hint of sunshine and warmer days. Those of us who are early risers have been blessed with some stunning sunrises of late, and whether or not we liked moving our clocks one hour forward

last month, the daylight is beginning to linger a little while longer into the evening.

Springtime brings life to our community as well. The golf course is getting busier most days. The doors to the Activity Center and Clubhouse seem to be in constant motion as we come and go to classes, card games, a workout at the Fitness Center, a friendly game of billiards or coffee with friends. Be sure to check out our Charbonneau website at charbonneaucountryclub. com to find out what’ s new‘ round town. Look for the opening of Lumiere, the new French restaurant slated for its grand opening this spring. Both men’ s and ladies golf clubs will be kicking off their opening days this month, welcoming new and returning members and teeing up for a season of fun. Maybe it will be your turn to hit a hole in one this year!

In May, you will be asked to cast your vote to select three members of the Charbonneau board of directors. Be sure to mark Wednesday, May 21 on your

calendar for the CCC annual meeting. Here, the results of the election will be announced, and you will have an opportunity to hear from each board director as they report on their individual areas of responsibility. You will receive a financial report from the treasurer and learn about the ongoing efforts of our Emergency Preparedness & Public Safety Committee, along with the important work of our Communications Committee. You will receive a report from our Civic Affairs director, who has been keeping track of bills introduced to the state legislature that could directly affect Charbonneau. You will also hear about ongoing efforts to welcome new residents to our community, as well as the state of our material assets, such as the Sports Center, the Marina and Edith Green Park. You will also learn about important changes to our landscape and architectural control guidelines, and any new activities that have been added to our already long list of things to do in Charbonneau. This is a meeting you

won’ t want to miss.

The Charbonneau Women’ s Association will be selling tickets soon for its much-anticipated fashion show on May 12. As we move closer to the summer months, you will learn more about the new Wilsonville Music Festival at Charbonneau. Slated for Aug. 2-3, the event promises a worldclass blues festival and expects to attract visitors from around the region. In July, you will be invited to attend the annual Charbonneau Community Information Day, where members of all of the clubs and social groups will be available to tell you about the activities available to keep you busy, informed and entertained in our lovely community.

Spring is a beautiful time of year in Charbonneau. Visit the park, go for a walk or bike ride, or meet with friends for coffee or lunch. As the weather warms up and the flowers begin to bloom, we hope everyone will be able to get outside to enjoy the beauty of this place we fondly call“ home.”

By TED MAST Charbonneau resident

This past February, Junior Achievement proudly continued its annual tradition of giving back to the retirement community of Charbonneau during its monthly team wellness day. Jennifer Arritola, senior director of classroom programs for Junior Achievement, is also a Charbonneau resident. Three years ago, Jennifer was tasked with organizing Junior Achievement’ s February team-building day.

She came up with the idea of transforming its February team-building day into a heartfelt tradition, crafting Valentine’ s cards for the residents of Charbonneau’ s SpringRidge community. This annual gesture of kindness not only spreads joy but also embodies the spirit of giving that fuels the organization’ s mission.

Team members come together to create these special valentines, spreading warmth and joy throughout the community. This heartfelt initiative not only brightens the day of the residents but also

serves as a meaningful way for the team to express their appreciation. By engaging with the community in this way, Junior Achievement reinforces its commitment to making a positive impact.

At Junior Achievement, we believe that every student deserves the chance to unlock their full potential. Through our engaging, volunteer-led programs, students from K-12th grade gain essential skills that open doors to a world of possibilities. Our hands-on approach sparks innovation and creativity, empowering young minds to thrive in

today’ s fast-paced world.

Together, we are shaping a brighter future for our community, one student at a time. As we celebrate this special tradition, we invite everyone to join us in recognizing the importance of connection and support within our community. Together, we can continue to spread love and kindness, one valentine at a time!

If you are interested in receiving more information about Junior Achievement please feel free to reach out to Jennifer at Jarritola @ ja-pdx. org.