Beaverton Lifestyle December 2024 by Active Media Publishing Group

Organization

DECEMBER 2024

Music4Harmony

Sunday, December 15 • 1pm–2:30pm

FREE EVENT

Meeting Rooms A and B

Enjoy a special holiday concert by Music4Harmony followed by a stringed instrument petting zoo. Ages 4-12 with family.

Evie at Wonderland Park

Wednesday, December 11 • 2:30pm–3pm

FREE EVENT

Beaverton City Library's bookmobile, Evie, visits THPRD Wonderland Park (6400 SW King Blvd, Beaverton) on Wednesdays. We'll have a story and outside activities. All bookmobile stops are open to the public - come and see us! Note: This event is at Wonderland Park (Access off King, N of Imperial), not Beaverton City Library.

The library will be closed December 25 for Christmas 12375 SW 5th Street Beaverton, OR 97005

Young Willamette Writers

Author Chat: Nui Wilson

Saturday, December 7 • 11am-12pm

FREE EVENT

Admin Conference Room

Come write with us! Join Young Willamette Writers for a talk about writing from children's book author Nui Wilson. Attend in-person or register for a Zoom link. Grades 6-12. Registration required.

To Borrow

Books ◆ Audiobooks ◆ Movies

◆ Library of Things ◆ Sewing machine, air fryer, GoPro, ukulele, etc ◆ Materials for children in more than 20 languages and for adults in more than 10 languages

In the Library

Wi-Fi ◆ Computer use ◆ Printing and copying donation-based; first five pages free ◆ Wireless printing ◆ Reservable study spaces ◆ Makerspace

Events

Engaging and educational programming for babies, children, teens, adults, and elders

◆ Recurring programs like English

Conversation Hour, Song Circle, Pacific Wonderland Poets, Death Cafe ◆ Citizenship Class, Writers Group, & Young Willamette Writers Author Chat ◆ Storytimes in English, Spanish, Arabic, Chinese, Korean, Vietnamese, Japanese, & Ukranian

◆ Homework help

Digital Library

eBooks ◆ Digital audiobooks ◆ Streaming video ◆ Digital magazines and newspapers

◆ Tumblebooks for kids ◆ Adventure Pass Free admission to local destinations

Digital Library

The New York Times, Unlimited access to all articles ◆ Brainfuse HelpNow & BrainFuse JobNow ◆ Mango Languages ◆ Ancestry Library ◆ More than 100 research resources

And More

Staff provides help with information queries

◆ Greater Good Northwest outreach workers provide social service assistance (information on food, showers, supplies, shelter, and housing) at the main library 4 days a week

◆ There are no fees for items returned late ◆ Library cards are free to get

Phone: 503-644-2197

Use 7-1-1 for relay

Mon.–Wed. 10am–7pm Thu.–Sat. 10am–6pm Sun. 1–6pm

Homemade Eggnog

Cheers to a classic holiday sipper

Ingredients

6 large egg yolks

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1 cup heavy whipping cream

2 cups milk

1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

pinch of salt

1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract ground cinnamon, for topping

1/4 cup alcohol, optional (see note)

Directions

 Whisk together egg yolks and sugar until light and creamy in medium bowl. In

saucepan over medium-high heat, combine cream, milk, nutmeg and salt. Stir often until it reaches a bare simmer. Add a big spoonful of hot milk to egg mixture, whisking vigorously. Repeat, one spoonful at a time to temper eggs.  Once most of hot milk has been added, pour mixture back into saucepan on stove. Whisk constantly until slightly thickened (or until 160°F) — it will thicken as it cools. Remove from heat; stir in vanilla and alcohol (if using).  Pour eggnog through fine mesh strainer into pitcher; cover with plastic wrap. Chill in refrigerator.  Serve with sprinkle of cinnamon. Store in fridge up to 1 week.

NOTE: If you’re adding alcohol, start with ¼ cup brandy, bourbon, rum or whiskey added at same time as vanilla, or after eggnog cools. For a thinner, completely smooth consistency, pour mixture into blender with 1 or 2 tablespoons milk; blend until smooth.

CHRISTMAS TREES CHAD’S

Winter Wonderland

Holiday highlights in Downtown Beaverton

By Angie Helvey, Active Media

Downtown Beaverton is always an enchanting destination, and it transforms into a bustling village of Christmas cheer during the holidays. The Beaverton Downtown Association is working with downtown businesses, local artists, the City of Beaverton and the Beaverton Chamber of Commerce to make this year’s celebration extra jolly with holiday shopping, dazzling lights, the traditional Tree Lighting and more!

First Friday

Though First Friday is a monthly event — excluding January — in Downtown Beaverton, Friday, December 6th from 6 to 9 p.m. is the perfect time to check it out. This unique celebration of the community pairs local artists with Beaverton businesses through a downtown art walk. Artists display their work in and around the storefronts and are available for chats and questions. “It’s a great opportunity to enrich Beaverton’s cultural fabric by highlighting local artists, engaging the community with new experiences, and supporting the amazing businesses that keep Beaverton thriving!” says BDA Executive Director Andrew Le.

distinct hubs focused on particular art forms so visitors can experience a variety of mediums. A Kids Hub will be hosted at Lazy Days Brewing, a Culinary Arts Hub at Binary Brewing and a Performing Arts Hub at Grey Raven Gallery.

Over ten different businesses participate each month, and with the holiday shopping clock ticking, the array of shops, boutiques, galleries and restaurants in Downtown Beaverton makes it the ideal location for a night on the town. Apart from the businesses hosting an artist, the BDA has created three

Winter Lights & Tree Lighting Event

For the first time, the BDA is partnering with the City and the Chamber of Commerce to organize one of the year’s most exciting events, the Winter Lights and Tree Lighting! This traditional event occurs on Friday, December 6th, at Beaverton City Park and promises a magical evening of holiday cheer for the whole family with live performances by local musicians, vendors selling seasonal items, and activities for all ages.

The Lighting Ceremony begins at 7 p.m. with thousands of sparking lights glowing on the colossal Christmas tree and all over City Park. Make sure to stick around because Santa Claus will make a surprise appearance to bring the jolly spirit of Christmas to the entire community! “It’s the signature event to kick off the holiday season, and we’re excited to be part of it,” Andrew says. The tree and the light display will shine brightly from 4 p.m. to 8 a.m. every night until January 3rd, 2025.

For more information, please visit www. downtownbeaverton.org or the City of Beaverton event page at www.beaverton oregon.gov/502/Beaverton-Winter-Lights.

TUALATIN VALLEY FIRE & RESCUE

HOLIDAY SAFETY TIPS

It’s the holiday season and traditions abound. One tradition many families have is bringing a cut tree into their home and decorating it with twinkling lights and ornaments. Each year, these trees account for hundreds of fires across the nation. But keeping your tree healthy and green will help keep your holiday safe! Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue encourages you to choose a healthy tree that has been recently cut or to cut one down yourself.

Below are some tips to keep your tree merry:

å Right before placing the tree in its stand, cut about 2 inches from the base of the trunk. This helps the tree draw up water.

å Once the tree is in its stand, add water daily or as needed.

å Place the tree at least 3 feet from any heat source such as space heaters, fireplaces, heat vents, etc. Trees placed in a room where fireplaces and woodstoves are used will dry out much quicker and should be placed as far as possible from them.

å Make sure the tree doesn’t block an exit.

å Use only decorative lights that have a label of a recognized testing laboratory and make sure the bulbs, strings, and connections are not damaged or broken.

å Never use lit candles to decorate a tree.

å Check for dryness by running your hand down a branch; if the needles fall off, the tree is too dry and should be taken down and disposed of properly.

å Never burn a tree in your fireplace. The combination of dry branches, pitch, and tree oils can ignite within seconds, sending sparks and flames into the room.

å Most communities in TVF&R’s service area have a recycling program where a dry tree can be disposed of properly.

å If your choice is an artificial tree, look for the label “Fire Resistant.” This does not guarantee the tree won’t catch fire, but it indicates the tree will resist burning and should extinguish quickly.

å When it comes to brightening your home with twinkling lights, TVF&R offers the following tips:

å Only use UL-approved, low-heat lights.

å Always use outdoor lights outside and indoor lights inside.

å Never use light sets with broken sockets, frayed and/ or cracked wires, or missing sockets. Any one of these problems may cause an electrical shock or a fire.

å Prior to using a light set, place it on a non-flammable surface and plug it in for 10 to 15 minutes to check for smoking or melting.

å Lights should only be used on fresh or fire-resistant plastic trees. Never use electric lights on a metal tree as the tree can become charged with electricity from faulty lights and a person touching the tree could be electrocuted.

å Fasten outdoor lights securely to exterior walls, trees, or other firm supports to protect them from wind damage. Do not use nails or tacks to hold light strings in place. Instead, use plastic light string holders or run your light strings through hooks.

å Only use outdoor-rated extension cords with outside lighting displays.

å Turn off all lights when you go to bed or leave the house. Lights can short out and start a fire.

For additional safety tips, visit www.tvfr.com.

LOCAL HISTORY

OREGON BLACK HISTORY SPOTLIGHT: THELMA JOHNSON STREAT

Beyond the Canvas

An artist’s fight for racial justice

By Oregon Black Pioneers

Thelma Johnson Streat was a painter and dancer who used her art to promote racial equity and education. Thelma Beatrice Johnson was born in 1911 or 1912 in the Eastern Washington town of Yakima. The Johnson family moved several times during Thelma’s childhood, with stints in Pendleton and Boise before settling permanently in Portland by 1920. Her father, James Johnson, was an artist and encouraged Thelma to become an artist herself from an early age. While still in high school, Thelma began winning local art prizes. She graduated from Portland’s Washington High School in 1932 and immediately launched her career as a professional artist.

In 1933, the Oregon Federation of Colored Women had an art exhibit at the New York Public Library. Several of Johnson’s works were featured in the show, and the exhibit gave her new exposure within the broader American art community. Johnson studied painting at Portland’s Museum Art School (today known as the Pacific Northwest College of Art) from 1934-1935, and at the University of Oregon in 1936.

In 1935, Thelma married Romaine Virgil Streat, a boxer who modeled for her drawing class. The couple moved to San Francisco where Thelma found work with the Federal Art Project, a Depression-era relief program for artists. Thelma’s work attracted the attention of acclaimed painter Diego Rivera, who she collaborated with on a mural for the 1939 Golden Gate Exposition. Rivera would write, “The work of Thelma Johnson Streat is in my opinion one of the most interesting manifestations in this country at the present. It is extremely evolved and sophisticated enough to reconquer the grace and purity of African and American art.” Rivera even painted Johnson into one of his own murals, which is today on the City College of San Francisco campus.

Thelma continued to grow as a solo artist. Her paintings were exhibited at San Francisco’s De Young Museum and the San Francisco Museum of Art. One of her works, Rabbit Man, was purchased by New York’s Museum of Modern Art in 1941, making it the first piece by a Black woman included in their permanent collection.

Thelma used her art to promote racial equality. Works like her “Death of a Negro Sailor” criticized segregation, and she debuted a series of paintings called “The Negro History” depicting prominent people of African descent from the past. She also began practicing interpretive dance in the 1940s, performing around the world for dignitaries like Eleanor Roosevelt and Queen Elizabeth II.

In 1948, Thelma divorced her husband and married her manager, John Kline. Thelma and John moved to Hawaii and opened a children’s art school. They later opened another on Salt Spring Island in British Columbia. Here, Thelma taught her students art and dance inspired by African, Polynesian and First Nations traditions.

Thelma enrolled at UCLA to study anthropology in 1956, but suffered a heart attack and died there that same year. Her brief but prolific career was largely forgotten in the decades that followed. Today, Thelma is finally being recognized as one of the most important West Coast artists of the early 20th century. Paintings by Thelma are today part of the collections of the Museum of Modern Art, San Francisco Museum of Art, Portland Art Museum, and the National Museum of African American History and Culture.

Oregon Black Pioneers is Oregon’s only historical society dedicated to preserving and presenting the experiences of African Americans statewide. To learn more, and to support this nonprofit, visit oregonblackpioneers.org.

©Oregon Black Pioneers, 2024

Thelma Johnson Streat, 1946.

Photo by Al Monner, Oregonian Courtesy Oregon Historical Society Digital Collections

Black Virgin, ca. 1948. Courtesy Douglas F. Cooley Memorial Art Gallery, Reed College, Portland, Oregon

Mattress World Northest will be supporting Special Olympics Oregon via the Polar plunge. They will be donating time, money and TV advertising in addition, they will be getting donations from their customers. Their main fundraiser, The Polar Plunge, takes place February 24 11 a.m. at Willamette Park in Portland and a 5k fun run at 10 a.m. “Polar Plunge is your chance to step out of your comfort zone by jumping into an unforgettable experience that directly impacts the lives of Special Olympics Oregon Athletes. By participating you provide 5,000+ Special Olympics Oregon Athletes access to sports, activities, and community,” says Special Olympics Oregon.

Why is this nonprofit so important? “Special Olympics Oregon believes in the transformative power and pure joy of

athletic competition. Every day across the state, we help children and adults with intellectual disabilities become athletes and grow a strong, supportive community of advocates. Through year-round training and serious competition, Special Olympics participants journey along a proven pathway to better health, essential life skills and lifelong friendships.” Please help us raise funds by donating online or visiting one of our local stores.

We are family-owned and -operated and we strive to greet every customer with a smile, listen to your needs and concerns and give a great overall experience.

Get a better night’s sleep and help support your community at one of our many local Mattress World Northwest locations. Check us out online at mattressworldnorthwest.com to find the closest location and store hours.

The Magical Legend of Santa Claus

1600 years in the making

By Robert Matsumura, Active Media

As the holiday season rolls around, Santa Claus assumes center stage. But where exactly did this rotund, jovial old man in a red suit originate, and how did he become the iconic symbol of Christmas that he is today? In truth, the history of Santa Claus is a fascinating tale that intertwines folklore, legends and a sprinkle of entrepreneurial ingenuity.

Santa Claus as we know him today traces his roots back to a number of historical figures, each contributing to the contemporary version we know and love. Perhaps the earliest inspiration for Santa Claus was Saint Nicholas, a Christian bishop of the 4th century, renowned for his acts of kindness and gift-giving. In time, Saint Nicholas became the patron saint of children, sailors, merchants, archers and brewers, among others.

In the British Isles, a character known as Father Christmas emerged during the mid-17th century and was frequently depicted as a bearded man garbed in green, symbolizing the spirit of the season. By the 18th century, however, the concepts of Father Christmas and Saint Nicholas merged, resulting in a hybrid figure that blended elements from both traditions.

The American version of Santa Claus began to take shape in the 18th century. Influenced by Dutch and German settlers, the name “Santa Claus” evolved from the Dutch term “Sinterklaas.”

During this period, “A Visit from St. Nicholas” (commonly known as “The Night Before Christmas”), a poem published in 1823, played a pivotal role in shaping the modern image of Santa. This poem described Santa

as a rotund gift-giver in a red suit who utilized chimneys rather than the front door for his Christmas visits. The poem, attributed to Clement Clarke Moore, established not only Santa’s magical nighttime journey around the world delivering toys to children, but specified his vehicle of choice as a sleigh powered by eight reindeer with specific names and attributes. Also introduced in the poem was the idea of Santa monitoring children on his “naughty and nice” list and filling stockings accordingly.

The classic image of Santa Claus in a red suit with a white beard was tweaked further in the 1930s due to a marketing campaign by Coca-Cola. The company’s advertisements depicted Santa as plump, rosy-cheeked, and garbed in a red and white outfit and hat. Although Santa had been portrayed in robes of other colors prior to this marketing campaign, CocaCola’s version of Santa Claus was embraced by the popular imagination and remains the image we associate with him to this day.

As the holidays roll around, and images of Santa Claus abound, know that, like so many things in life, Santa has evolved from his ancient origins as Saint Nicholas and Father Christmas to the iconic figure of Christmas cheer crafted by an imaginative poet and creative corporate advertising. One thing is for certain, whether you’re a child or an adult, the holidays would not be the same without Santa, his reindeer and the spirit of the season that he represents to so many around the world!

The Darkest Days

How the winter solstice brings hope

By Robert Matsumura, Active Media

Every year around December 21st in the Northern Hemisphere, the winter solstice occurs, marking the shortest day and longest night of the year. Through the centuries this annual cosmic event has inspired stories, myths, and celebrations, blending elements of nature, light, and spirituality in traditions shared by numerous cultures across the globe. At the heart of these ancient rituals and festivities is the summer solstice’s association with birth and renewal, a seasonal change in nature that heralds the coming of spring and an end to the darkness of winter.

Ancient Origins: Celebrating the Sun’s Return

Before calendars and clocks were invented, people lived in accordance with the sun’s cycles. In a sun-centric world the solstice served as a pivotal marker in their agricultural, spiritual, and social lives. For many cultures, the winter solstice was viewed with trepidation — a time when the world could fall into chaos, a dark period where the sun was symbolically at its weakest — before returning to glory as the days lengthened. The summer solstice was a reminder of the sun’s return, bringing warmth, growth, and sustenance. Elaborate feasts were often held, sacred rituals performed, and fires lit to encourage the rebirth of the sun.

Northern Europe: Yule and the Norse Pantheon

One of the most famous winter solstice traditions took place in Northern Europe where ancient Germanic and Norse tribes celebrated Yule. A festival that honored the Norse gods, particularly Odin, Yule focuses upon the rebirth of the sun. Evergreens, symbolizing eternal life, were central to Yule, and homes were decorated with boughs of holly, ivy, and mistletoe — plants resistant to winter’s chill. Over time, these traditions blended with Christian customs, resulting in today’s wreaths, garlands, and Christmas trees.

Rome: Saturnalia and the Feast of Misrule

Across the Roman Empire, the solstice celebration known as Saturnalia was a time of joyous revelry. Saturnalia honored Saturn, the god of agriculture and time with festivities that flipped societal norms. During Saturnalia, carnivallike chaos reigned — slaves could become masters for a day, gambling was permitted, and everyone feasted. It was a season of merriment, gift-giving, and the relaxation of social rules. Everyone — rich and poor alike — could partake in the festivities. Saturnalia had a profound influence on later Christmas celebrations, particularly the communal feasting, exchanging of gifts, and sense of goodwill.

The British Isles: Stonehenge and the Celtic Solstice

East Asia: Dongzhi Festival and Harmony in Balance

In East Asia, the Dongzhi Festival signals the arrival of winter and the rebirth of yang energy. Dongzhi, meaning “extreme of winter,” derives from the concept of yin and yang — the cosmic balance of dark and light. While the winter solstice represents the darkest day, it also signifies the gradual rise of yang energy and the light.

In the British Isles, Stonehenge remains one of the most iconic sites associated with the winter solstice. Constructed thousands of years ago, this mysterious stone circle aligns perfectly with the solstice sunrise, drawing crowds of onlookers annually to witness the event. Though Stonehenge’s origin is unknown, it’s clear that its creators were deeply attuned to the celestial rhythms, and utilized the monument to mark important seasonal shifts.

In the Celtic world, the summer solstice was a time when the Oak King triumphed over the Holly King in their eternal battle for earth’s light. The Oak King, symbolizing the waxing sun, would begin to grow stronger with the longer days, heralding the return of spring. Rituals involved bonfires, feasts, and offerings to the gods in gratitude for the return of the light.

In China, Dongzhi is a time for family reunions and feasting on specific culinary favorites such as tangyuan — glutinous rice balls served in sweet syrup, symbolizing family unity. In southern China, dumplings are also popular and are believed to protect against the winter cold. Dongzhi is also a time for reconnecting with ancestors, and the belief is that one’s good fortune and health in the coming year depends on harmony between the living and the deceased.

Indigenous Peoples: Honoring the Dark and the Light

For many Indigenous cultures of North America, summer solstice rituals were held to celebrate the return of the sun. The Pueblo peoples celebrated Soyal with purification rituals and dances meant to awaken the sun from its winter sleep. Central to the ceremony is the creation of kachina dolls — symbolic representations of deities or spirits — that play a crucial role in the life cycle.

Far to the North, the Inuit people of Alaska and Canada honored the summer solstice with a festival called Quviasukvik, a time when families convened to share food and stories, reflect on the past and anticipate the return of the sun. As a people accustomed to harsh Arctic winters, the summer solstice indeed was cause for celebration. Longer days and the return of the sun literally represented survival in the brutal conditions of the North.

South America: Inti Raymi and the Andean Celebration

In the Southern Hemisphere, the summer solstice occurs in June. Among the Incas, Inti Raymi, the festival of the sun was held in honor of Inti, the sun god. The Incas, who revered the sun as their primary deity, performed elaborate ceremonies in honor of Inti to ensure good harvests in the coming year. At the heart of the solstice celebrations was the city of Cusco, where ritual sacrifices, offerings and dances were performed to demonstrate the people’s gratitude and reverence for the sun’s critical role in sustaining life. Modern day celebrations honoring Inti are held to this day.

The Solstice Today: A Time for Reflection and Renewal

While solstice celebrations have evolved over the centuries, themes of light, rebirth, and reflection are timeless. From spiritual gatherings to cozy times around the hearth, the winter solstice invites us to anticipate the return of the sun and all that it brings to the earth. So as the winter solstice rolls around, take a moment to slow down, reflect, and find balance, like our ancestors once did. On the darkest of days, the solstice is a celebration of endurance, hope, and abundance that light makes possible in our lives.

ACROSS

1 Oregon state tree and tree in “A Charlie Brown Christmas” (2 words)

4 German-themed Washington town known for its Christmas spirit

6 Christmas beverage also known as “milk punch”

8 Last name of Ebenezer Scrooge’s ghostly business partner

10 Nine are gifted in “The Twelve Days of Christmas” (2 words)

12 Popular cuisine for Jewish people on Christmas and often the only type of restaurant open on Dec. 25

13 Jewish candelabrum with nine branches lit during Hanukkah

14 Number of reindeer pulling Santa’s sleigh

DOWN

1 Disney character that is a Christmas Eve staple in Sweden and the character that inspired the current U of O mascot (2 words)

2 George Bailey’s beloved town in “It’s a Wonderful Life” (2 words)

3 Third reindeer shouted in “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer”

5 Christmas decoration originally made from strands of silver

7 Opener or famous holiday ballet

9 The Christmas _____ Parade lights up the Willamette River

11 European country in which the Christmas tree originated

13 Another name for the three wise men

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A Safe Haven

Shelter backed by community support

By Patti Jo Brooks, Active Media

Losing one’s home is a devastating situation and it can happen to just about anyone. Even full-time employment today is not a guarantee of keeping your home in the future. Ultimately, homelessness affects everyone in the community in one way or another. Tigard and Washington County are fortunate to be served by Family Promise of Tualatin Valley, a nonprofit dedicated to assisting homeless and nearhomeless families. During this season of giving, reach out to Family Promise and share what you can. As a compassionate community, your support and volunteer efforts will go a long way towards helping these families.

“When you have kiddos, you’re looking for the safest place you can possibly be,” says Elise Laubach, spokesperson for Family Promise of Tualatin Valley. “Folks will live in their vehicle or they’ll be doubled up and kids will be couch-surfing.” Sometimes these families will use whatever resources they have to rent some hotel space and “kind of cobble things together,” Elise relates. In addition to families with children, Family Promise also serves some adults-only households of seniors and elderly or those who have fragile medical conditions.

Family Promise of Tualatin Valley (FPTV) is part of the Washington County shelter system and receives referrals based on need through Community Connect. Totally unsheltered, pregnant, with a newborn, or certain medical considerations receive priority placement. The Tigard facility is currently open and houses around 50 to 60 families, a number

that will increase to 70 families once the remodel is completed. Purchased with funding through Project Turnkey in partnership with Washington County and the City of Tigard, FPTV took possession of the facility June 2023. Looking optimistically at a spring completion date, the shelter upgrades will include a commercial kitchen, expanded laundry facilities, and a remodeled playroom.

A 40-member staff provides around the clock services and includes housekeeping, maintenance, operations and guest services. Approximately 25 members are case managers responsible for everything from housing navigation to those who work with Rapid Rehousing (a program that bypasses the shelter system and rehomes families directly). The average stay at FPTV shelter is four months. Many families are able to move into housing with voucher support or temporary rental assistance provided by Supportive Housing Services (funded through a Portland Metro bond).

Life enriching programs are offered by way of after school tutoring, adult literacy, community events, bingo, movie nights and events that cover all the holidays including a women’s acapella group that comes to sing during the holiday season. There’s a gift room on site as well as a food pantry and clothing pantry. Volunteers are always needed, particularly to assist the kitchen manager with off-site meal preparations during the remodel phase. “We wouldn’t be where we are today without our community support,” Elise says, acknowledging the local volunteers, donations, drives and business involvement. To learn more, visit familypromiseoftv. org. Sign up for the newsletter and stay informed of drives requesting needed items. Call (503) 4272768 or email info@ familypromiseoftv.org.

Folklore Unwrapped

Krampus Night and why it’s celebrated

By Robert Matsumura, Active Media

Traditionally, Christmas evokes images of Santa Claus, twinkling lights, stuffed stockings over the hearth and gifts beneath the tree. In the heart of the Alps, however, another figure lurks in the shadows of the holiday season, a horned and hairy creature that has for centuries been a part of Central European folklore — Krampus.

The Origins of Krampus

The origins of Krampus reach back to pre-Christian Alpine traditions. The name Krampus derives from the German word krampen, meaning “claw.” Rooted in ancient Norse and Germanic pagan customs, specifically those centered around winter solstice celebrations, Krampus was a horned beast with shaggy fur and a devilish appearance who roamed the land during the dark of winter. With the onset of Christianity however, devilish figures were frowned upon, so rather than eliminating Krampus altogether, he was reinterpreted as a cautionary figure who would scare children into proper behavior, working alongside the benevolent St. Nicholas.

Krampus and St. Nicholas: An

Unlikely Partnership

For every well-behaved child a troublemaker existed, and this was where Krampus came in. While St. Nicholas rewarded the good children with presents and treats, Krampus dealt with the naughty ones with spankings and even hauling them away to the underworld in some cases. The duality of St. Nicholas and Krampus mirrored the Christian concept of heaven and hell — good and evil — where virtue is rewarded and vice is punished.

Krampusnacht:

A Night of Terror

On the eve of St. Nicholas Day, December 5, Krampusnacht — “Krampus Night” is celebrated across Central Europe.

On this night, men don terrifying costumes and roam the streets as Krampus, scaring children (and sometimes adults) in Krampus parades known as Krampuslauf. These days, Krampus has expanded beyond his traditional Alpine roots. Global media, films and TV shows have embraced Krampus, and in the United States, Krampus has become something of a cult figure. Krampusthemed events, parties and even horror films have reintroduced him to a new generation.

Much of the appeal of Krampus lies in his contrast to the commercialized image of Christmas in modern culture. Krampus represents the balance between light and dark, joy and fear — a reminder that the holiday season, while full of cheer, also contains an element of mystery and unease.

Why Krampus Matters

Today Krampus continues to be popular around the world, demonstrating the power of folklore and its ability to evolve over time. Whether you find him fascinating, frightful or both, there’s no denying that Krampus has carved out a unique place in holiday history — one where the naughty children had better beware!

SThe Perfect Fit

Custom closets and storage

By Patti Jo Brooks, Active Media

Photos by Carly Carpenter, Active Media

pring has sprung! And so have the organizing plans that were put on hold this winter. Whether a custom closet, home office, pantry, craft room, laundry or mud room, Closets by Design can solve your most difficult space and storage challenges. Designed to fit your needs, “Quality, Beauty and Commitment are Built In.” Closets by Design also features media centers as well as hobby rooms or garages complete with flooring. Employing local suppliers and custom construction in a local Beaverton shop, Portland’s Closets by Design is truly the perfect fit!

“We focus on functionality first to get the storage issues addressed,” relates Niran Bates, owner of Portland’s Closets by Design franchise. “But if somebody has a dream closet,

something they’ve seen on Pinterest, Instagram or in a magazine, we can usually take care of that,” he points out. “Everything is custom made right here in our shop,” Niran says, adding, “We try to use local materials where we can.” As an example, he cites that their sheets of melamine are produced in Eugene. “Everything we make is unique,” he expresses. “We’re not stamping out certain pieces and making them fit. We provide a true custom-built closet.”

all the necessary supplies as well as all the accessories needed for a fun-filled season of swimming and poolside entertainment. Closets by Design’s parent company, one of the largest closet companies across the U.S. and Canada, was founded in 1982 and holds a reputation within the industry for integrity and leadership in customer service and satisfaction. Niran Bates, together with his wife, Linda, are in their third year as Closets by Design franchise owners. The couple have lived in the Portland area for 26 years and employ approximately 20 local staff members that include designers, office personnel, a shop production team and installers.

This time of the year also draws attention to the garage and other areas where gear is stored for outdoor activities such as camping, fishing, kayaking and more. Additionally, it’s a great time to organize the pool house. Add extra storage to safely hold

Every aspect of Portland’s Closets by Design custom-built products is handled in-house by one of these highly skilled individuals — no part of any job is outsourced. From the initial no-obligation consultation to the custom designs and quality construction, Closets by Design offers the best value in the industry.

For specials and promotions or additional information, visit your local Closets by Design website at portland.closetsbydesign. com or call (503) 966-8021.

Niran & Linda Bates

son Chris, from the Bachelorette. ” Well, I want you to know a little more about that picture and why I use it in my ads. Years ago in High School in Philly something happened that changed my life. I hurt my back playing football. Really bad! I could hardly walk. I remember the instant I felt that knife in my back. My Dad took me to Dr. Hill, our family chiropractor who adjusted my back.

this special technique that I spent over 1,000 hours over a 10-year period observing and studying with him and am now a leading expert. I became his protégé and the only student to treat him for his chronic headaches he suffered with from a bad head injury as a kid, leading him to develop this special, non-surgical treatment. I also truly believe he saved my son Chris from a lot of suffering as well.

FROM CONEHEAD TO THE CHICAGO CUBS

at that moment I wanted to be a chiropractor, even though I was supposed to follow in the surgical footsteps of my great uncle who founded Nazareth Hospital in Philly – and cousin – who was an orthopedist. After undergraduate college at Schiller University in Heidelberg Germany, and pre-med studies at Temple University, I was accepted at the University of Western States in Portland, drove across the country, started in the fall of 1976 and graduated in 1981. And as they say, the rest is history. But before settling in McMinnville at the Dunn Chiropractic Clinic which was founded in 1922, I had the good fortune to travel with and take care of professional Broadway and Ballet dancers, Jockeys, the 1984 Italian Olympic Team Track and Field Division and many other pro-

always helped me, so I called sal specific treatments on after about 3 visits. I ’ve completely clear for about sults of it are according have sleep apnea anymore. am breathing really well Crit Haney

CONFESSION is that I don’t heal

I don’t treat or cure any of the problems patients come to me with. Here’s how it works: I make a specific adjustment to the sphenoid bone in your head. Your brain and nervous system then function better. It’s your body that does the healing. And I’ve had amazing results in practice since performing this special, non-surgical treatment thousands of

Now, My CONFESSION never have. I don’t treat make a specific spinal or system functions better. ve had tremendous results simple as that.

From Conehead to the Chicago Cubs

Unique offer: you shouldn’t need expensive

One half of Americans and those who do have found s where I come in. are able to afford the care

changing treatment and could benefit from my and decide to take on your first treatment, I will

my Bilateral Nasal Specific Treatment for over 40 years, the protégé of Dr. Stober, a leading expert in the field and have even been called

In the Journal of peutics a study published are under regular chiropractor you may not be running that people actually pay less if they are seeing a chiropractor

When Chris was born, after a 36 hour labor, he had a conehead and we were told that he may have some cerebral palsy due to the stress on his head from the birth process. The day after he was born, I took him to Dr. Stober who did the nasal specific treatment on his head and adjusted the top bone in his spine. Right in front of our eyes we could see the shape of his head changing. I took Star Baseball

When Chris was born, after a 36 and we were told that he may have some cerebral palsy due to the stress on his head from the birth process. The day after he was born, I took him to Dr. Stober who did the nasal specific treatment on his head and adjusted the top bone in his spine. Right in front of our eyes we could see the shape of his head changing. I took over Chris

It shouldn

You see, when Chris was born, after a 36-hour intensive labor and home birth, he had a cone head and we were told that he could have some cerebral palsy due to the stress on his head from the birth process. The day after he was born, I took him to Dr. Stober for his first Bilateral Nasal Specific Treatment. Right in front of our eyes, my wife and I could see the shape of his head changing. I took over Chris’s care from there and he became an All-Star baseball pitcher and soccer player in high school, a walkon at the University of Portland and was drafted by the Chicago Cubs in the 11th round and the 354th pick and pitched for them for 5 years. One just never knows how valuable a Bilateral Nasal Specific Treatment and sound nutrition can be for a person’s health. It’s strange how life is because I have treated

pitcher and Soccer player, a walk on at the University of Portland, and junior year was drafted by the Chicago Cubs in the 11 th pick and pitched for them for 5 years. One never knows how valuable a nasal specific, chiropractic adjustments and

pitcher and Soccer player, a walk on at the University of Portland, and junior year was drafted by the Chicago Cubs in the 11 round, the 354 knows how valuable a nasal specific, chiropractic adjustments and sound nutrition can do for someone ’s health.

If you bring in this article my entire new patient exam rays, if necessary, not included). cost you $295 elsewhere. ll be happy to know Further care making your choice of doctor.

s strange how life is because I have treated many more patients with many different conditions such as headaches, misciatica pain, athletic

Here’s what some

It’s strange how life is because I have treated many more patients with many different conditions such as headaches, migraines, chronic sinusitis, neck, arm, back , sciatica pain, athletic injuries and more.

s what some of my patients had to say: There are over 190 more Google Reviews

Here are some of my graduated from Western Oregon. Since then I have migraines, shoulder, arm, lash injuries, chronic sinusitis dietary counseling and whole ed Chiropractor of the Year many other awards. I ’ve from infants to professional I just have that low

My assistants are wonderful! warm and we try our best wonderful service at an exceptional

AVAILABLE DECEMBER 9th-31st

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Advantage Magazine

Breathe Better. Live Better. NOW!!

A Natural, Non-Surgical Approach Awaits You

M“My name is Landon Haney, and I am 75 years old. I have had sinus problems off and on since I was a teenager. The most recent one started in 2011. The nose was really, completely plugged off and I heard about Dr. Siegfried. I knew him from past things he had done for me and always helped me, so I called up and came in. He started the treatments on me, and I have had 8 now. I started noticing improvements after about the third one. I have been completely clear for about the last month and a half and the results of it are, according to my wife, I no longer snore. I don’t have sleep apnea anymore. I am sleeping through the night and I am breathing really well with no blockage in my nose. It’s amazing. I do maintenance as needed to keep me breathing better.”

illions are suffering with one of these conditions, especially at this time of year. Are you one of them? The medical model is drugs, and possibly surgery like the “roto-rooter”, or other terms like sinuplasty, septoplasty, balloon sinuplasty or turbinoplasty. Unfortunately, they are all “missing the target”. My model for these conditions, for over 40 years has been the Bilateral Nasal Specific Treatment, a natural, non-surgical approach that awaits you that may help you breathe better. To learn more, go to www.nasalspecific.com for videos and testimonials or scan the QR code below.

I have been practicing the Bilateral Nasal Specific Treatment since 1976. AS the leading expert in this procedure, I’ve performed th procedure thousands of times. Most importantly, I’ve been able to help many many patients. I was “anointed” the protege of Dr. Stober, who developed, taught practiced this non-surgical technique in Portland, Oregon from 1950 until he passed in 1987. I spent 10 years and over 1,000 hours by his side while treating his patients and Dr. Stober only took maintenance treatments from me to help alleviate his facial and sinus pain he suffered with from a broken nose suffered on the farm growing up.

I joined the Dunn Chiropractic Clinic—A Pain and Wellness Practice since 1922—in 1984, after finishing my tenure living and traveling the world with the 1983/84 Italian Olympic Team’s Track and Field Division until after the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics. My regular chiropractic practice includes caring for patients with car accident injuries, regular chiropractic care and also as a certified counselor in whole food nutritional supplements and diet.

For a limited time only, you can schedule a consultation for only $97 (normally $297) by calling 503-472-6550 on Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 9–12 and 3–6. I look forward to meeting and consulting with you to see if you are a candidated for this potentially life changing procedure.

Dedicated to your health and wellness, Dr. Siegfried

“After the eighth treatment, I was sleeping solidly for 8 straight hours for the first time in 8 years. And by the way, no more drugs!!”

—Jon V.N.

—Nikita Z.