October 26, 2009

Columbia-Pacific Preservation Begins Guild Formation

Astoria, OR – Columbia-Pacific Preservation, the newly formed economic development cluster focused on historic preservation in the Columbia-Pacific region, is organizing a series of meetings for detailed discussion of the formation of a craftsperson’s guild. Local historic preservation consultant John Goodenberger is leading the meetings that will continue into December or January.

“We hosted approximately 100 people at the Astor Hotel in September to introduce the concept of Columbia-Pacific Preservation,” Goodenberger said. “The response was very positive, and for the next couple of months, we’ll be having more focused discussions with a smaller group that includes craftspeople and others whose businesses provide goods or services directly related to historic preservation. These individuals will be involved in formation of the craftsperson’s guild, which is a major component of Columbia-Pacific Preservation,” Goodenberger said.

By the end of January, guild formation is expected to be complete, including a defined structure for membership and a website where the public can research and obtain contact information for a range of local preservation-related goods and service providers.

Columbia-Pacific Preservation includes a craftsperson’s guild component, an education component comprised of historic preservation courses and workshops offered by Clatsop Community College, and a marketing component that will not only promote local providers of preservation-related goods and services, but the entire region as a center for historic preservation.

“Our focus is on economic development,” said Rick Gardner, executive director of Clatsop Economic Development Resources (CEDR), the organization responsible for initiating the Columbia-Pacific Preservation effort. “This is an opportunity to add well-paying jobs to the region, strengthen and/or broaden the skills of those already working in the field, incubate new businesses and attract others from outside the area. In the process, we’ll further enhance the beauty and quality of life in our region by restoring and preserving some of its best assets,” he added.

Columbia-Pacific Preservation began in February 2009 as a volunteer advisory committee initiated by CEDR. CEDR is a not-for-profit organization providing Clatsop County businesses with comprehensive economic development services, including business counseling; assistance in accessing capital; workforce services; and access to specialized regional support.

For more information about Columbia-Pacific Preservation, visit www.columbiapacificpreservation.org.