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| Jim Jensen, Troutdale Citizen of the Year |
Jim Jensen was recently honored at the Troutdale, Oregon Summerfest as the Citizen of the Year for their community. Of course we know Jim as a Past Governor who, along with his better half Jean, devotes a lot of time and energy to the Gresham Optimist Club and the PNW District.
I thought it would be interesting to hear more about Jim and this special honor from an outside source and Jim obliged by sending me an article that appeared in a trade association magazine recognizing his accomplishments.
Please enjoy the following from the Business Credit Journal:
As important as volunteer work is to a community’s well-being, it’s possible to devote so much to the public good that one’s own family takes a back seat. Jim Jensen, Troutdale "Citizen of the Year," says in his long history of community-minded endeavors, he’s tried to avoid that syndrome. “My wife and son might disagree, but I did my best to try and balance between work, family, and community service,” he says.
Jensen, a Troutdale resident since 1979, was recognized as "Citizen of the Year" at the 38th annual Troutdale SummerFest. In 2002, Jim retired from Weyerhaeuser Corporation as credit manager in the Hardwood Lumber Division. Both before, but especially after leaving full-time work behind, Jensen delved into a range of volunteer organizations and projects such as: Troutdale Budget Committee, Optimist Club of Gresham, East County Economic Development Committee, Portland Jaycees, Gresham Community Emergency Response Team, and U.S. Forest Service volunteer car patrol.
An Army veteran, Jensen is particularly fond of serving with the Patriot Guard Riders, a group of individuals that escorts remains of soldiers killed in action in Iraq and Afghanistan. Jim also treasures the time he volunteers at the Multnomah Falls information desk.
With the help of his Honda Silver Wing scooter, Jensen does what he can to keep his inner youngster alive and kicking.
Jim also was part of the Distressed Businesses Services team at NACM Oregon. He continues his Professional Membership through NACM Oregon and the CFDD Portland Chapter. He is actively involved with both organizations as an instructor and committee volunteer.
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| Jean and Jim Jensen |
When not working or volunteering, Jim and his wife, Jean, spend time with their son, Jamie, 36, daughter-in-law Maura, and grandchildren Logan, 6, and Amaya, 4. Recently, the couple, celebrated their 41st wedding anniversary with a trip to the Oregon coast.
What a great tribute and honor, Jim. Congratulations.
