The people at Willamette Outdoor wash are on time, polite, friendly, hard workers who take care to not harm plants around the house. They washed our vinyl siding and applied moss control to our roof. The house looks brilliant now. We plan to use them to in the future as need arises, and can recommend them with confidence.
-Michael H.
I am the Community Outreach Coordinator for the Gilbert House Children’s Museum and recently hired Gary and his team to pressure wash our Outdoor Discovery Area. They were prompt, professional, and did an amazing job cleaning the space. I would highly recommend them to anyone looking for their service.
Thank you!
-Meyer R.
October 2024
Music4Harmony
Sunday, October 6, 2024 • 2pm–3:30pm
FREE EVENT
Enjoy a concert by Music4Harmony followed by a stringed instrument petting zoo. Ages 4-12 with family.
"At Music4Harmony, we believe in the transformative power of music to create a positive influence in the lives of children and disadvantaged communities."
Teen Art Show Submissions
Thursday, October 31, 2024 • 12pm–5:30pm
FREE EVENT
Submit your art for the 22nd Annual Teen Art Show!
The show will be open to the public starting with an opening reception on Wednesday, Nov. 6, at 4 PM, and continue through Sunday, Nov. 10, during library hours. Full guidelines and a submission form will be available at www.BeavertonLibrary.org/TAS. Grades 6-12.
Teen Scary Short Story Contest (virtual)
October 1st through October 31st
FREE EVENT
Write a one-page or shorter scary story for a chance to win a Powell's gift card! There will be $100, $50, and $25 gift cards for one winner each in middle school and high school. Prizes sponsored by the Friends of the Beaverton City Library. Entries can be submitted at www. BeavertonLibrary.org/2024ScaryStoriesContest starting Oct. 1. Grades 6-12.
12375 SW 5th Street
Beaverton, OR 97005
Phone: 503-644-2197
Use 7-1-1 for relay
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
Mon.–Wed. 10am–7pm Thu.–Sat. 10am–6pm Sun. 1–6pm
Striking Gold
Miner and entrepreneur finds success in wagon freight
By Oregon Black Pioneers
Photos Courtesy of the Grant County Museum
Christopher Columbus Sewell was a miner and entrepreneur and the patriarch of a successful Black family during Eastern Oregon’s gold rush years. Sewell was born in Washington, DC in 1823. His mother Maria was granted her freedom in 1827, along with Columbus and his five siblings.
It is believed that Sewell left Washington, DC at an early age. Later in life, he would claim to have fought under General Winfield Scott during the Black Hawk War, a US Army campaign against the Sauk and Kickapoo tribes in Iowa. However, this war took place in 1832, when Sewell was just 9 years old. What is certain, though, is that Columbus Sewell was counted in the 1850 census for Iowa County, Wisconsin.
Columbus moved further west in search of gold following the 1849 California gold rush. He worked as a miner throughout the 1850s in northern California, and appears in the 1860 census as a resident of Weaverville, in Trinity County.
Two years later, gold was discovered in Canyon Creek, a gulch near present day John Day, Oregon. A boom town emerged, which became known as Canyon City, and it soon became the county seat of Grant County. Many Californians migrated north to Canyon City, including Columbus. He worked as a ranch hand for prominent rancher Bradford Trowbridge from 1862-1865 before establishing a gold claim of his own.
The Civil War came to an end in 1865, emancipating enslaved African Americans nationwide. Sewell took a trip east at some point after the war and returned to Canyon City in 1868 as a married man. His new wife, Louisa, was a native of Richmond, Virginia. Columbus and Louisa made their home in town and raised two sons, Thomas (born 1869) and Joseph (born 1872). The Sewells were all prominent figures within the local community,
and were members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Each of them was mentioned frequently in the social pages of the Grant County News.
Columbus likely continued working his gold claim, but sources show that he was working as a teamster, or wagon driver, by 1865. In that role, Sewell transported raw materials like lumber and wool to points as far away as Baker City and The Dalles. He would return with his wagons loaded with food, goods, and supplies. Columbus’ business was very successful. At one point he had as many as 12 horses pulling his fleet of wagons. Once, during a blizzard in 1884, Sewell famously cleared snow from the streets of The Dalles by affixing a snowplow to his wagon, which allowed stranded travelers to continue on. Sewell was still hauling freight by wagon as late as 1891.
In 1892, Columbus filed a Homestead Act claim for 160 acres of land four miles south of town. This claim would be certified in 1897. Sadly, the Sewell family did not get to enjoy this land together. Louisa passed away in 1893 and their son Joseph died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound in 1898. Columbus would pass away in 1899, leaving his homestead and business to Thomas Sewell. Thomas continued living and working in Canyon City until his own death in 1943.
The Sewells are remembered not only for being Eastern Oregon’s first Black family, but also for their friendship and generosity towards their neighbors in Grant County.
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.
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Festive Flavors
Celebrate the holidays with locally-owned Bundt cake bakery
By Angie Helvey, Contributing Writer
by Malaina Kinne
There are plenty of reasons to love Nothing Bundt Cakes. From the moist, fudgy cakes blanketed in cream cheese frosting to the warm smiles and convenient service model, this bakery never misses, even pairing its delectable creations with fun and colorful decorations guaranteed to make any celebration extra special!
The Nothing Bundt Cakes franchise was founded in 1997 by Dena Tripp and Debbie Shwetz in their home kitchens and has since grown into a brand that values high-quality ingredients, hand-crafted recipes, and the warmth of genuine hospitality. Bundt Boss Carla Mayes worked with the company in Texas before moving to Oregon and opening the Beaverton location in 2016, followed by Hillsboro in 2020. “We’re all about making a difference in the community through sharing cake and spreading joy,” she says. “That’s what sold me on the brand.”
Chocolate Chip, Red Velvet, Lemon, White Chocolate Raspberry, gluten-free Chocolate Chip Cookie and more! This includes the new gluten-free Lemon Raspberry, which has been wildly popular since its release. Besides the well-loved classics, rotating surprisefeatured flavors and limited-time pop-ups are always a delight.
Holidays are the busiest for Nothing Bundt Cakes, and they come with themed varieties and decorations. “It’s a special time, and we’re excited to celebrate with our customers,” Carla says. Pumpkin Spice is back in action as the featured flavor, and seasoned guests can attest to the hearty pumpkin flavor with hints of nutmeg and cinnamon. The “Taste of Autumn Collection”’ of pop-up Bundlet flavors includes Chocolate Toffee Crunch and Caramel Apple Cider, which pair perfectly with hot beverages, cozy scarves and sweaters.
Baked fresh on-site daily, cake sizes are designed to serve any group, including 8-inch and 10-inch individual and tiered options, personal bundlets that serve one to two people and bite-size bundintis sold by the dozen. The tiered cake is perfect for a bigger group and serves up to 28 people. The rich, creamy frosting can be piped with their signature petals or their drizzle for a more formal look.
There are 12 tasty cake flavors to choose from year-round, all generously adorned with their thick and creamy signature frosting: signature Chocolate
Adding some themed aesthetic to your cakes is a must, and Nothing Bundt Cakes will adorn them with fun and colorful decorations for any occasion. Decked out in holiday swag, big bows, and cute toppers, the cakes come wrapped in cellophane for an elevated presentation that is easy to transport. Several designs are new or up-and-coming this year for the holiday
Photos
season, like the “Witch Way to the Cake” for Halloween.
This is not your typical bakery. It’s designed to be the ultimate convenience for last-minute occasions! Guests can add party packs with plates, napkins, in-store candles, cards, and gift items, making it a one-stop shop. Orders can
be placed in person, via phone, online, or through thirdparty delivery apps, including Grubhub, Doordash, Ubereats and EZCater. Unless it’s a significant holiday, most items can be ready in an hour or less. The company recently launched an app connected to the new loyalty program, allowing guests to earn “Joy Points” with every purchase to redeem in the app or in the bakery.
Unsurprisingly, Nothing Bundt Cakes’ moist, luscious creations have many loyal fans. “We call them our Bundt Ambassadors,” Carla explains. “They understand the wow factor of our product and join us for their special occasions. It’s fun to be part of all their everyday celebrations.” Customers can join the Email Club to be the first to
hear about new flavors, limited-time offers and special deals. Giving back to the community is a cornerstone of the Nothing Bundt Cakes brand. That includes giving away free cakes, donating to charities, partnering with local communities for events and fundraising for schools. Any local schools or other organizations who would like to partner for a fundraiser should email the bakery directly at hillsboro-or@nothingbundtcakes.com or beaverton@nothingbundtcakes.com.
Nothing Bundt Cakes Hillsboro is located at 2037 NW 185th Ave, Hillsboro, and the Beaverton location is at 11629 SW Beaverton Hillsdale Hwy, Beaverton. Hours are Monday through Saturday from 9 am to 7 pm and 10 am to 3 pm on Sundays. Please give them a call at 503-433-5018, or visit their website at www.nothingbundtcakes.com.
Age in Comfort and Luxury
Change your care, not your home!
By Patti Jo Brooks, Contributing Writer
Have you had the talk? Do your thoughts turn to senior living more frequently these days? Transiting a loved one to a safer, more secure environment often means a move. And, as days pass, it can also mean one or two additional moves. Cogir of Tigard Senior Living is structured to minimize those moves by allowing residents the flexibility to age in place. Independent Living, Assisted Living and Memory Care offer luxury accommodations all under one roof.
Tigard’s newest senior living community, Cogir of Tigard Senior Living, offers a premier living experience in a chic, sophisticated environment. Executive Director Daniel Powell extends his personal greeting: “I look forward to welcoming you to our brand-new senior living community, where we can work together to ensure a vibrant, fulfilling, and supportive environment for all our residents.” Currently accepting reservations, Cogir of Tigard Senior Living is scheduled to open in mid-January 2025. Call (971)348-1406 today to schedule a tour!
Resort-inspired amenities and restaurant-style dining prepared by an executive chef are prime examples of the Cogir Lifestyle. Additional amenities include a movie theatre, arts room, fitness center, library and more. Organized activities and outings often include visiting the farmer’s market, trips to the grocery store, the shopping mall, or off-site dinners, happy hours, and winery tours. Residents are encouraged to take the lead and suggest or develop any activities they find
interesting. Cogir values residents’ perspectives and tailors each of their signature programs to meet their needs and requests. At Cogir, every resident has a voice, and the Cogir team is dedicated to facilitating a supportive and engaging environment.
Cogir also understands the importance of pets to a resident’s overall health and well-being. The Furtissimo Pet Program is their way of integrating furry friends into multiple aspects of engagement and wellness programs, increasing social engagement, physical activity, and elevating a resident’s mood long after the visit is over. A dedicated dog run area is also available for residents’ pets to enjoy.
Resident care is comprehensive, tailored to the needs of the individual, and provides RN oversight. 24/7 Fall Detection is available in every apartment as an optional feature. In-Home Health services can coordinate visits from personal physicians. Physical therapy, Occupational therapy and Speech therapy are available onsite, giving residents the opportunity to utilize those services in the comfort of their own home or elsewhere within the community.
What truly sets the Cogir brand apart in Senior Living, however, is their “floating license.” This allows for various levels of care among the residents to be intermixed from apartment to apartment, not wing to wing or floor to floor, thereby, increasing opportunities to age in place. With the exception of moving to Memory Care, a resident would typically remain in the same apartment regardless of any increase in their care level.
To further explore what Cogir of Tigard Senior Living has to offer, visit them at 9244 SW Oak St. in Tigard, view their website online at Cogir of Tigard Senior Living, or call (971) 348-1406.
IFURNITURE SHARE FURNITURE TO FAMILIES IN NEED
furnitureshare.org
n the month of October, Mattress World Northwest has partnered with local vendors (Serta Simmons Bedding, Tempur-Sealy, and Southerland) to donate up to 400 mattresses to support Linn and Benton County Furniture Share. Our retail locations in Benton and Linn Counties are also accepting monetary donations going directly to Furniture Share, and their efforts to turn a house into a home for those impacted by devastating wildfires, veterans and local kids.
Many families find times tougher than ever, and as a result live without basics many take for granted. Furniture Share is a nonprofit organization that has been operating since 1998. Their mission is to provide locally grown and locally made healthy foods and redistribute quality used furniture to children, families and individuals in need, thus diverting items from the landfill and supporting under-served members of our
communities. Learn more at: furnitureshare.org/. MWNW is gladly donating to this incredible cause, as well as raising awareness and taking donations on the nonprofit’s behalf. Please help raise funds by donating online or visiting one of their local stores.
Family-owned and -operated, dedicated to providing their customers the best products at the best prices, all while donating to and participating in their local communities, Mattress World Northwest exemplifies the best of what retail businesses have to offer. This proves that not all mattress stores are created equal.
Get a better night’s sleep and help support your local community at the nearest Mattress World Northwest store. They are open every day or you can order online at mattressworldnorthwest.com.
Albany Veteran’s Day Parade with Mattress Millie.
MWNW and Tempur/Sealy has donated over 600 mattresses to Furniture Share.
Sealing Success
John’s Waterproofing celebrates 50 years of service
By Kelly Romo, Contributing Writer
In 1974, John Lombardi founded John’s Waterproofing with a simple but powerful vision: to protect homes from the damaging effects of moisture in basements and crawl spaces. Initially, Lombardi handled all aspects of the business himself, working tirelessly to build a foundation of trust and excellence. His commitment to delivering high-quality service allowed the company to expand significantly, evolving from a one-man operation to a thriving family-owned business with a reputation for innovation, integrity and customer satisfaction. As the company celebrates its 50th anniversary, it’s clear that John’s Waterproofing has grown and evolved while remaining true to its roots.
John’s determination and hands-on approach allowed the company to steadily grow for the first couple of decades of its operation. The waterproofing industry, however, began to shift in the 1990s with the introduction of products specifically formulated for basement and crawl space waterproofing on the East Coast.
A company called Contractor Nation dove into the science of waterproofing by crafting products and processes that could provide long-lasting solutions for belowgrade spaces. To ensure John’s Waterproofing offered the best to his neighbors across the PNW, John learned about these new
advances, testing and tailoring them to provide region-specific solutions that set them apart from competitors.
A pivotal moment in the company’s history occurred in 2019 when long-time employee Robin Ekloff took over ownership when John retired. Ekloff, who has worked for John’s Waterproofing since 1997, ensured that the transition was smooth, maintaining the same level of service and integrity the company was known for. Under Ekloff’s leadership, the company has continued to thrive and innovate. Adding new services such as electrical work, Cummins whole-home generators and radon mitigation, John’s Waterproofing has positioned itself as a comprehensive home health solution provider.
Over the last five decades, the waterproofing and foundation repair industry has seen tremendous technological advancements, and John’s Waterproofing has consistently remained at the forefront. One of the most significant innovations is the CleanSpace® crawl space vapor barrier, which is a 20-mil thick woven material designed to completely seal out groundwater. This system helps protect homes from moisture and mold and deters pests while improving energy efficiency. In addition to CleanSpace®, the company offers the TripleSafe™ sump pump, which ensures that below-grade spaces always stay dry by efficiently pumping water away from the foundation. John’s takes pride in improving indoor air quality by keeping the space dry at all times to prevent mold spores and allergens from reaching the living areas above.
As a familyowned company, John’s Waterproofing has always placed a strong emphasis on creating a positive work environment and fostering a sense of integrity throughout its operations. Many employees are family members or long-time staff who have become like family. This strong internal culture ensures that every employee is dedicated to delivering the best possible service to customers. Ekloff has continued Lombardi’s practice of leading by example, reinforcing a culture of honesty, reliability, and community service.
Current owner, Robin Ekloff and his wife Shelley 2023
Founder John Lombardi with his wife Mavis
The new John’s Waterproofing building
John & Mavis Lombardi
The company’s commitment to integrity extends beyond its workforce. John’s Waterproofing is heavily involved in community initiatives, supporting Habitat for Humanity, local schools, the Silverton Area Community Aid (SACA) and the Mount Angel American Legion. By actively participating in these efforts, the company not only helps improve the lives of its neighbors but also reinforces its role as a trusted community partner.
Since taking over in 2019, Ekloff has introduced several new product lines and services to help grow the company. One of his key initiatives has been expanding the company’s offerings to include home electrical services and installing Cummins home generators. With these new additions, John’s Waterproofing provides comprehensive solutions to homeowners, ensuring their homes are protected from water damage and equipped to handle
power outages and other potential hazards. Despite the challenges of navigating the COVID-19 pandemic, Ekloff has successfully grown the company, and it continues to thrive.
Looking ahead, John’s Waterproofing is preparing for new industry trends. One of the most significant shifts has been the growing demand for basement finishing as more people work from
home. Before converting a basement into a livable space, homeowners must ensure it’s appropriately waterproofed to avoid costly repairs later on. John’s Waterproofing offers specialized services to help homeowners protect their investment and create additional square footage in their homes.
As John’s Waterproofing celebrates 50 years of excellence, the company remains committed to providing topquality waterproofing services and helping homeowners create healthier, safer living spaces. Whether you’re dealing with a wet basement or a damp crawl space or simply want to improve your home’s air quality, John’s Waterproofing offers free inspections and personalized recommendations to meet your specific needs. To learn more, visit their website at johnswaterproofing.com or call them at 503-873-5650.
Robin and John in 2019 when Robin purchased the company
Día de los Muertos
A celebration of life and memory in Mexico
By Robert Matsumura, Contributing Writer
Every autumn, as the air grows cool and crisp and the trees turn brilliant shades of gold and scarlet, Mexico becomes a whirl of vibrant colors and music. The fall season ushers in the Day of the Dead — Día de los Muertos in Spanish — a unique cultural celebration honoring the lives of those who have passed away. Though the name of the celebration sounds ominous, it is anything but. It’s a joyous festival that melds ancient indigenous traditions with Catholic influences, resulting in a dazzling tapestry of love, life and remembrance.
Central to the Day of the Dead is the belief that, once a year, the departed souls of loved ones return to the world of the living for a reunion with their families. These souls, whether they be the spirits of honored ancestors or beloved pets, are welcomed back with offerings of their favorite foods, drinks and mementos from their lives. Families construct ofrendas, or altars, decorated with
candles, photographs and colorful papel picado — ornate paper cut-outs that flutter in the breeze. With its bright orange petals, the marigold, or cempasúchil, is everywhere, its sweet fragrance serving as a guide to draw the spirits home.
The two-day celebration, every November 1st and 2nd, corresponds on the Catholic calendar to All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day. The first day is focused on the souls of children, known as angelitos (little angels) while the second day is dedicated to adults. This blending of pre-Hispanic and Christian traditions is a reflection of Mexico’s rich and complex history, where the combination of indigenous practices and European culture have created something entirely new.
What makes the Day of the Dead so special, however, is not just its pageantry, but a continual connection with loved ones that transcends the finality of death. Families gather in cemeteries, often staying overnight, to clean and decorate graves, share stories and celebrate with music and food. Frequently, entire communities join together for processions and parades, where everyone is invited to join in the festivities.
An important part of the Day of the Dead is the food. Each dish bears symbolic significance. Pan de muerto, a sweet, anise-flavored bread decorated with bone-shaped designs, is a classic treat. Sugar skulls, often personalized with the names of departed loved ones, are a sweet reminder of the cycle of life and death. Mole, tamales, and atole (a warm, spiced corn drink) are other traditional offerings, each selected for its connection to the deceased one’s tastes or the family’s heritage.
More than just a time to remember those who have passed, the Day of the Dead is a celebration of life itself. Rather than something to be feared, death is viewed as an integral aspect of the human experience. By honoring those who have departed, their memories are kept alive, thereby ensuring they continue on as a vital part of our lives.
Should you find yourself in Mexico during these magical days of autumn, embrace the celebration. Savor the traditional foods, dance and reflect on how, in celebrating the dead, we are also embracing the enduring beauty of life.
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Unmasking Halloween
A journey into its ancient origins
By Robert Matsumura, Contributing Writer
Each autumn as October draws near, neighborhoods transform. Pumpkins leer from porches, skeletons and monsters festoon front yards, and children eagerly anticipate the thrill of trick-or-treating and the hoard of candy they will amass. But where did this creepy spectacle we call Halloween originate?
The answer to this stretches back over two thousand years to the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain (pronounced sowin). Celebrated on October 31st, Samhain marked the close of summer and the commencement of winter — a dark, cold, time associated with death in Celtic tradition. On the night before Samhain, the Celts believed the boundary between the living and the dead grew thin, permitting spirits to roam freely across
the earth. To ward off these visitors from the other side, people built bonfires and donned costumes fashioned from the heads and hides of animals.
Later, as the Roman Empire gained dominion over much of Europe, their festivals of Feralia (commemorating the passing of the dead) and Pomona (honoring the goddess of fruits and trees) merged with Samhain. This cultural fusion brought apple bobbing into the festivities. Pomona, the goddess of orchard fruits, was often depicted bearing apples, a symbol of the harvest and abundance. Incorporating apples into the holiday is a nod to Pomona’s influence — still seen today in bobbing for apples and the tradition of candy apples. As the centuries passed, celebrating the harvest and honoring the dead were integrated into Halloween traditions, blending Roman and the older Celtic customs together as something new.
Fast forward to the 8th century when Pope Gregory III declared November 1 as All Saints’ Day or All Hallows’ Day, to honor saints and martyrs. These new holidays were part of a broader strategy by the Christian church to replace pagan festivals with Christian ones. As time passed, the night before October 31, became All Hallows’ Eve — morphing eventually into Halloween. It was during this period that traditions like souling and guising emerged, where the poor went door to door requesting soul cakes in exchange for their prayers on behalf of the dead. It was this tradition that evolved into what we know today as trick-or-treating.
The jack-o’-lantern, one of the most iconic symbols of Halloween, has its own fascinating origin. The tradition of carving faces into vegetables predates Halloween and originates from ancient Irish folklore. According to the story, a man named Stingy Jack attempted to trick the Devil and was condemned to roam the earth with only a lantern fashioned from a carved-out turnip to light his way. In Ireland turnips were used for this purpose during Halloween festivities, but upon reaching the New World, Irish immigrants discovered that pumpkins, native to their new home,
were larger and easier to carve. This practical switch gave rise to the nowfamiliar jack-o’-lantern, a central feature of Halloween décor to this day. Halloween continued to evolve in the New World. In colonial America, European traditions integrated with indigenous harvest festivals creating new customs. While many American colonists celebrated Halloween with activities such as fortune-telling, dancing and communal gatherings, the Puritans, due to their strict religious views, frowned upon Halloween festivities, deeming them to be pagan and irrelevant. Despite puritanical naysayers, the 19th century saw Halloween expand into a communitycentered event with activities like parades, parties and mischief-making. Halloween also grew to be accepted by schools, churches and civic groups which began holding those same parties, parades and other festivities. As Halloween became a familyfriendly event, much of the raucous mischief-making of the past began to diminish. By the early 20th century, Halloween was celebrated from coast to coast as a national holiday.
In the decades following World War II, Halloween traditions were firmly entrenched with costumes, trick-or-treating and spooky decorations taking center stage. Instead of the laborious handsewn costumes of the past, factories now massproduced inexpensive costumes that made dressing up for Halloween a snap. As Halloween became increasingly commercialized, themed parties, haunted houses and an expanding array of Halloweenthemed merchandise became the norm.
Today, Halloween’s popularity has only burgeoned. Contemporary trends run the gamut from spooky movie marathons and elaborate haunted attractions, to viral social media challenges and interactive experiences. Year-round Halloween shops exist to satiate your spooky urges. Halloween has even expanded the ghostly season to stretch beyond October 31, with Halloween promotions and events commencing as early as September. So commercially successful is Halloween from a business standpoint that it stands second only to Christmas in terms of revenue generated — a testament to its enduring appeal across generations.
As the air grows chill and the trees turn red and gold, remember that Halloween is more than just candy, costumes and jack-o’-lanterns. It’s a tapestry woven from ancient rituals, Christian traditions and the spiritual beliefs of numerous cultures spanning centuries. It’s a time to embrace the spooky, celebrate community and be on the lookout for spirits that may stalk the earth at this sacred time of year.
So as you don your costume and select a pumpkin for carving, take a moment to ponder the ancient roots of this beloved holiday. Whether you’re young or simply young at heart, Halloween is an invitation to revel in the mystery of the unknown, celebrate the cycle of life and death, and to maybe even bob for an apple or two. And as the last light fades on All Hallows’ Eve, the timeless allure of things that go bump in the night is sure to embrace you once more.
JPainting History
Portraits reignite forgotten histories and spark dialogue
By Dennis McNabb, Contributing Writer
eremy Okai Davis is an incredibly busy man. Between his full-time day job working as a graphic designer and illustrator here at Active Media, his full-time 24/7 job of being a good companion to his partner and proud father of two, and his full-time artistic endeavors (which involve deadlines for both ongoing and upcoming shows), it’s a wonder he finds any time for rest, let alone relaxation. You would think that something would have to give, but for Jeremy, expressing himself artistically is as integral as breathing. Without it, he is not living his best life, not being the best version of himself that he can be.
Of course, if you are familiar with Portland’s vibrant local art scene, Jeremy’s name will likely not be foreign to you. His fantastic work has been shown in the Rotating Art Program at Portland International Airport, in the Lonnie B. Harris Black Cultural Center (at Oregon State University), in the University of Oregon’s permanent collection, and many others. His works are primarily portraits of forgotten or underrepresented Black historical figures, painted in a wonderfully expressive pointillist style, juxtaposed against relatively simple backgrounds which may include poignant graphic
elements to expand the story. Jeremy believes art to be an interactive and communal experience, and hopes to not only inspire a deeper dive into the subjects’ history but also to open a broader dialogue in general.
Jeremy has two shows on the horizon that are not to be missed. The first is at the Elizabeth Leach Gallery and opens
on Thursday, November 7th. This show will expand on his previous show, “A Good Sport” which highlighted Black Americans performing in the fields of sports and academia and navigating the highly complex ideologies of “sportsmanship” throughout their careers. This time around, Jeremy will turn his keen eye toward Black
comedians, performers, and vaudevillians, particularly those who pressed boundaries and broke down racial barriers in the industry. He will invite viewers to ponder the subjects’ punchlines.
His second “show” will be the unveiling of his final 2 pieces for the Bush House Museum’s “Reinvisioned: Contemporary Portraits of our Black Ancestors.” Jeremy has been working on this collection for over two years, adding 2 new pieces every six months, and he is as honored to be a part of this important project as he is proud to be completing it. There is a dark history within the walls of this museum, but with their inclusive and intentional recontextualization, growth and healing have been made possible.
Jeremy Okai Davis is a remarkable artist and man. His message is one that needs to be heard. Support local artists and don’t miss out on these important shows. Follow Jeremy on Instagram: @jeremyokaiart for updates and info.
Photo by Cheryl Juetten
Wink, Acrylic on Canvas
Installation view, University of Oregon
Metering, Acrylic on Canvas
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Strength, Support and Sisterhood
Breast Friends of Oregon to hold luncheon
By Kelly Romo, Contributing Writer
Breast Friends of Oregon is thrilled to announce its upcoming Breast Cancer Community Luncheon on Oct. 26, 2024, from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Embassy Suites Washington Square. This annual luncheon is a unique and heartfelt event that gathers patients, survivors and their loved ones impacted by breast cancer throughout the Portland metro area. Featuring a diverse range of vendors, including local practitioners, crafts, health products, artisans and non-profit organizations, the luncheon is set to be a day of community, support and inspiration. The event is dedicated to those who have experienced breast cancer and the family and friends who have supported them along the way.
Founded in 2000 by Sharon Henifin and Becky Olson, Breast Friends was inspired by the personal journeys of these two friends who both faced breast cancer diagnoses while working together. With a shared mission to ensure that no one goes through breast cancer alone, they established Breast Friends as a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing emotional support, education and community to anyone
at any point in their diagnosis, treatment or recovery. Allison Hancock, executive director, says “As Breast Friends approaches its 25th anniversary next year, the organization remains dedicated to lifting each other up and making a difference in the lives of those touched by breast cancer.”
Breast Friends offers an array of services to those affected by breast cancer. From peer mentoring that connects newly diagnosed women with those who’ve undergone treatment, to workshops on nutrition, acupuncture, mindfulness and yoga, the organization addresses the holistic needs of its community. Financial assistance, in-person and online support groups and walking groups are also available to provide practical and emotional support. With locations now open in Bend and TriCities, Breast Friends continues to expand its reach, including outreach to the Latina and Hispanic communities.
This year’s Breast Cancer Awareness Luncheon promises a day filled with community, connection and celebration. Beginning at 9 a.m., attendees can participate in education classes with topics geared towards mindfulness and exercise that emphasize the importance of keeping the body moving. The event also features vendors, a keynote speaker, community awards and a fashion show where survivors walk the runway, showcasing special outfits and sharing their personal experiences with breast cancer.
A luncheon highlights includes the Compassion Award, given to a medical community member who has significantly impacted their patients’ lives. The award recognizes nominees from patients and employees who have experienced their compassion firsthand.
For more about Breast Friends, visit www.breastfriends.org or follow them on Instagram (@breastfriendsPDX) and Facebook (@ breastfriendsoforegon). The easiest way to connect is to fill out the online contact form or email them at mail@ breastfriends.org. For more information about the Breast Cancer Community Luncheon on Oct. 26, check the website (see above). Spanish interpretation will be provided at the event.
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