DALL AS
Dallas Community Advantage Magazine
DEC 2024 / JAN 2025
Published by
Active Media Publishing Group
PO Box 672, Aurora, OR 97002
info@ActiveMediaUSA.com 503.825.2111
ADMINISTRATION
Matthew Nelson, Publisher Catrina Nelson, CFO
Tara Weidman, Executive Assistant
Raeann Van Arsadall, Business Development
PRODUCTION
Jeremy Okai Davis, Art Director
Donovan Darling, Creative Project Manager
Brittany Jungenberg, Director of Marketing
Kate Astle, Copyeditor
Kaity VanHoose, Social Media Manager
SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNERS
Hilary Berg Sean Carver
Brittany Jungenberg Morgan King Shawn Schmidt
GRAPHIC DESIGNERS
Dani DeGraw, Justin Nelson, Kaity VanHoose
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Patti Jo Brooks Olive Gallagher
Angie Helvey Lucas Holmgren
Robert Matsumura Dennis McNabb
Peter Murphy Edward Novak
Malia Riggs Kelly Romo
Gretchen Van Lente Ty Walker
Alice Williams Justin Woomer Kerry Yu
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Laurel Bice Carly Carpenter
Tyler Francke Angie Helvey
Brittany Jungenberg Malaina Kinne
Lisa Kuhlman Kara Langley
MJ Media Productions Andrew Sambuceto
Henry Schifter Hayley Starkey
ADVERTISING SPECIALISTS
Don Ormsby Bill Kistler
Stephanie Baker Peggy Jacobs
David Long Chris O’Brien
John Zobrist Brad Marti
Shelley Zeman Tina Toney
Darren Dwyer Lynnette Scott
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TASTE OF THE TOWN Two Wolves Taproom
Feed Your Inner Wolf
Meet friends & family at this award-winning taproom
By Angie Helvey, Active Media
The tale of the two wolves is an old Cherokee legend passed down for generations. Danielle Smith’s father told her the story when she was small, as his father had told him. The wolves represent the good and evil dichotomy that exists within all of us, and the moral lies in the power of personal choice: the wolf that wins is the one you feed. The team at Two Wolves Taproom invites you to come and ‘feed the wolf’ with delightful brews, fantastic food and a comfortable spot where everyone feels like family.
Open since March of 2022, the taproom has been a dream fulfilled for co-owners Danielle and Tyler. Though they’d both worked in bars for years, each had different strengths professionally, and it was the perfect scenario to open their own spot. Creating a family with their crew and customers was a goal from the beginning. “We designed it to be a community place that feels like a home away from home,” explains Danielle. To add to the tribe, the pair had twins earlier this year! “Now our kids are the two wolves, and we have this amazing legacy to pass on,” she says.
Whether you’re in the mood for a golden Pilsner or a hoppy IPA, Two Wolves has you covered with a brilliant lineup of rotating taps that’s a mixture of local beers, seasonals and some they stock by request for their regulars. “Our customers let us know what they like or want to try. We like to listen to their opinions and get what they enjoy,” says Danielle.
Domestics, bottles and cans are also on the menu, including the widely popular specialty sours from Claim 52 in Eugene. Tap Takeovers are a regular occurrence so guests can try a large selection from one brewery, and if you find one that really tickles your taste buds, grab a Two Wolves custom growler-full to take home! The space boasts a full bar, so classic and specialty cocktails and a selection of wine and fruit-flavored mimosas are always an option. Watch for special events like trivia on Wednesdays, comedy shows, live music, and, new to the agenda, karaoke on Saturday nights!
You might be here for the beer, but don’t skip the food when you visit Two Wolves. Guests can pair their brews with loaded handhelds, giant burgers, crispy chicken wings, fresh salads, mouthwatering rotating specials and more. Customer favorites include the Jalapeno Bacon Beer Cheeseburger and Reds PB & J Burger, which comes topped with peanut butter, flavored habanero pepper jelly, pepper jack cheese, fresh jalapeno and lots of bacon. Their famous Gouda Pickle Rolls are to die for, featuring smoked gouda cheese paired with pickle spears,
wrapped and fried in wontons and served with sriracha aioli. A kid’s menu is available for smaller appetites – the restaurant is family-friendly apart from
the bartop and lottery room – and desserts, including Lava Cake and Root Beer Floats with local Pelican Root Beer. Sitting down for a beer at Two Wolves is like settling in for a relaxing hangout with friends and family. Many regulars followed Tyler from his former job bartending in Stayton, and several employees started as customers. “People always leave with new friends because everyone here is somehow friends with other people they
know,” says Danielle. The team includes three siblings, a couple and a mother and son. “We’re all family in some shape or form.” The bar’s collection of awards is a massive testament to the community’s love and support for the friendly spot. This year, they won Best Taproom and Bar in the Willamette Valley, Best Dallas Bar in the mid-valley and Best Business of the Year in Dallas Community Local.
Two Wolves recently added catering and mobile bartending to its repertoire and can accommodate weddings, business groups, baby showers and more! Remember them for your next event, and delight your guests with boozy beverages and superior snacks.
Two Wolves Taproom is located at 171 SW Court St in Dallas. Please give them a call at (503) 837-1073 or visit their website at www.twowolvestaproom.com/
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!
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 mediumhigh 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.
PROJECT
Get ready to be a part of something extraordinary! Music is more than just sound; it’s a lifeline that resonates with the hearts of those who create and experience it. That’s why Slipkid Presents is dedicated to crafting spaces for young musicians.
Through collaborative writing sessions, interactive workshops, and communal jam spaces, we offer a unique platform for budding artists to express themselves, learn from their peers, and build lasting connections.
Join us in this mission to empower the next generation of musicians, where every note played, and every song written can spark the change our world needs, inspired and delighted.
1/15/2025 - Meet & Greet - 5pm-8pm
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BLAIR CROMWELL, DALLAS HIGH SCHOOL
Under the Spotlight
Passionate leader in Dallas High Theatre
By Kelly Romo, Active Media
For more than three decades, Blair Cromwell has been the heart and soul of the theatre program at Dallas High School. Her journey into teaching drama began with a student teaching experience under the guidance of Corby Ward at Dallas High School. The impact was so profound that on her last day of student teaching, Blair found herself in tears that her time with the Dallas Theatre program was over. When Corby Ward left for another district, Blair applied for the position and has been a dedicated drama teacher there for 37 years. Reflecting on her long tenure, Blair feels incredibly fortunate to have spent her career at Dallas High School, helping students explore the craft of acting and the art of storytelling. Selecting the right plays and musicals for her students is a thoughtful process. Blair and her team, which includes Tech Director Yvette Geissinger and After School Play Director Hannah Fawcett, choose productions based on the skill sets of the students to both challenge them and keep the community engaged. Despite budget constraints preventing a musical this year, they have selected “Clue” for the fall and “Treasure Island” for the winter — both of which promise to resonate with the community and push the students to new heights. The final play of the year will be selected later in the season, as Blair and her team like to see how much the students have grown before deciding.
Blair hopes that her students gain more than just acting skills from their time in the drama program. She wants them to build confidence, develop the initiative to lead fulfilling lives, and acquire a deep understanding of the arts. The program offers numerous opportunities for students to hone their craft, including participating in the Oregon Thespians Regional Acting competition, where Dallas students have consistently excelled — even performing at the State Thespian Conference in Salem. Blair’s advice to aspiring theatre students is simple: immerse yourself in the world of theatre, seek opportunities to grow, and be kind.
The students of Dallas High School’s theatre program consistently deliver performances that are nothing short of remarkable, showcasing a level of talent and dedication that would make any community proud. Whether acting on stage or working behind the scenes, these young artists pour their hearts into every production, demonstrating the rigor and creativity that define truly great theatre.
The community is invited to witness this talent firsthand by attending their upcoming performances. Join them for the fall production of “Clue” on Oct. 31 and Nov. 1 at 6:30 p.m., and a special matinee on Nov. 2 at 1:30 p.m. “Treasure Island” is on the calendar in February. Your presence and support will not only encourage these students but also celebrate the exceptional artistry they bring to Dallas.
TOP: Hannah Fawcett (from left), Yvette Geissinger and Blair Cromwell. BELOW: Student thespians at Dallas High School.
A Merry Month
Downtown offers holiday cheer
By Angie Helvey, Active Media
It’s time again for beautiful downtown Dallas to turn into Christmas Town, a magnificent winter wonderland with a schedule of jolly events for the whole family! “The events around Christmas Town feel a little surreal, like something you watch on a screen, but instead those are your hands covered in mittens, drinking hot chocolate, and watching your town transform into something a little bit magical,” says Downtown Manager Helen Connolly.
The downtown Christmas Town festivities officially kick off on Saturday, Dec. 7, with the parade and tree lighting. Staging begins on Dec. 4 with the delivery of the tree by Mountain View Tree Service, which the public is invited to watch. But the spectacular scene promises much more than that, with a massive effort from the local community to light up the whole square with holiday cheer! Sarah McMaster of Citizens Bank is organizing The Festival of Trees, which, in conjunction with The Dallas Arts Association and the Dallas Chamber of Commerce, invites local businesses to team up with nonprofits to design a unique tree theme for decoration and display either in their building or outside with solar lighting. They can also select items for an online auction to assist in fundraising. Cascade Home Center is providing pre-cut pallet trees to businesses who want to decorate their storefronts, and the fire department will hang an array of brilliantly lit snowflakes.
On tree-lighting day, the merrymaking begins with a holiday market version of the Dallas Farmers Market held inside Harvest Crossfit, with various food vendors available out front. At 5 p.m., the parade begins, with community partners joyfully marching through town with floats and
vehicles adorned with loads of Christmas lights and yuletide decor. Keep your eye out for Santa Claus himself, provided by the KW Cornerstone Team, who will join the parade and be available afterward to visit the little ones.
The ceremonious tree lighting will take place from 6 to 6:15 p.m., followed by a performance of local school choirs caroling all your favorite holiday tunes! While waiting for a photo op with Santa, students from the Dallas High School Agriculture Career Technical Education Program, under the guidance of instructors Ryan Rowley and Danielle Bull, have created various Christmas displays and a photo opportunity board to capture all your family’s holiday memories for years to come!
But it’s not just downtown: the spectacular spirit of Christmas Town spreads all over the city with the fifth annual holiday home lights contest sponsored by the Dallas Oregon HomeSmart Realty Group. Participating homes must be within city limits. A map will be published starting on Dec. 14 so the community can enjoy and vote on some of the most uniquely and beautifully decorated homes in town! Votes are due Dec. 26; the winner will get a gift certificate and bragging rights. Also, keep your eyes peeled for a gnome hidden in Dallas; clues will be distributed through the Polk IO and the Christmas Town Facebook Page. Citizens Bank sponsors the contest, and the prize for finding the gnome is $500!
Christmas Town is a treasured event with a long list of sponsors that have extensively funded this incredible display of holiday cheer. “The whole month is special; it unites people in an atmosphere of exuberance and activities that bring out the best of us: celebration, goodwill, and being part of something positive,” Helen shares. “The comparison to a Hallmark movie has been made more than once and is fairly accurate.”
Please visit the “Christmas Town, Oregon” Facebook page for more information.
From Scrap to Sculpture
The artistic vision of Jenny Ellsworth
By Kelly Romo, Active Media
Jenny Ellsworth’s journey into the world of metalwork began in an unexpected place: off-roading. While learning to build roll cages and bumpers, Jenny was captivated by the process of bending and shaping metal. The tactile experience of welding — the sound, the smell, and the quick, powerful way it bonds materials — sparked a passion that quickly evolved into her life’s calling.
Initially, Jenny focused on metal fabrication for commercial properties, where she often witnessed significant waste. Seeing usable scrap discarded made her think creatively about giving these materials a second life. Construction projects
She began crafting art pieces from salvaged materials, and what started as a personal project soon gained the attention and admiration of her friends. Encouraged by their enthusiasm, Jenny held a garage sale, where her pieces were met with excitement, marking the beginning of her artistic career.
Jenny’s first public sculpture, a 17-foot cattail named “Salacia,” came about serendipitously. While helping another artist on a project for Clackamas
Community College, an opportunity arose when an artist dropped out and she was asked to create a sculpture. The recognition she received from her peers and the community was surreal.
“Elemental Love”sculpture in process before being powder coated. It will be permanently installed on December 7th at 7th and Center St. in Oregon City
Her sculptures often feature organic shapes inspired by plants and critters, reflecting the natural forms she sees in the metal she collects. Jenny’s approach to selecting materials is intuitive. She allows the shapes of found objects to guide her, envisioning what they can become.
Balancing the technical aspects of welding with artistic expression seems to come naturally to Jenny, who has an innate sense of proportion and balance, often reflected in her work through the “golden ratio,” which naturally occurs in nature. Her sculptures evoke a sense of curiosity, encouraging viewers to appreciate the beauty of transforming something old into something new.
Over the years, Jenny’s work has evolved, particularly after the loss of her brother in 2010. This personal tragedy led her to create larger, stronger, and more emotionally resonant pieces. Her art has become a way to connect with others who have experienced loss, fostering a shared sense of healing.
Jenny’s work is displayed throughout the Pacific Northwest, including notable installations such as Hughes Water Gardens. She is excited about a new permanent sculpture project in Oregon City, which she was awarded through the Oregon City Arts Commission. This significant piece, “Elemental Love,” will be installed near the historic McLoughlin House and City Hall at the intersection of Seventh and Center on December 7th, 2024.
Once Jenny gets more power in her shop, she will expand her artistic reach by offering welding classes to teach others the craft that has brought her so much fulfillment. To learn more about Jenny Ellsworth’s extraordinary work, visit www.fairyforge.com or follow her on Instagram @fairy_forge_.
Hidden Gem in the Hills
Sustainable winery restores Oregon’s white oaks
for Willamette Valley wine enthusiasts.
By Angie Helvey, Active Media
Left Coast Estate is more than an award-winning winery: it’s an industry leader in sustainability. Located directly off 99W, it may not look like much from the highway, but the 490-acre property in the Van Duzer AVA —American Viticulture Area — exists within its own microclimate amidst the hills and includes a wildlife habitat with 100 acres of Oregon white oak savanna preserved and restored.
A second-generation family-owned operation, Left Coast was founded in 2003, and back then, winemaking in their specific region was in its infancy. “A lot of it was concentrated further north, through Dundee, so we were one of the early pioneers in developing viticulture in this area,” explains CEO Taylor Pfaff. They focused on growing grapes and opened their tasting room in 2007. With Taylor’s father as master gardener and his sister as the landscape architect, they cultivated a stunning property that’s become a haven
Left Coast truly embraces the working farm mentality. When you visit, you’ll likely see ducks and chickens whose eggs are used to create different dishes for the tasting room, along with a high-tunnel garden with vegetables and herbs. Their micro-herd of sheep graze the 162 acres of vineyards and even parts of the oak forest. About 200 acres of the property are set aside for wildlife habitat, and a significant portion of that is Oregon white oak savanna, the most threatened habitat in the Willamette Valley. The restoration process is lengthy, with years’ worth of high-density clearing and the reintroduction of native plants. Left Coast has also restored a portion of their neighbor’s property, and with the National Slough National Wildlife Refuge close by, the ecological impacts on the region are sizeable. “It takes a multigenerational impact,” Taylor says, “and you need large acreages of this habitat to make a meaningful difference. We’ve also noticed an improvement in the phenolic ripeness of our grapes, so we’re developing complex flavors and aromas.” The winery is LIVE Certified Sustainable and was awarded the LIVE Certified Award for Excellence in Sustainability for 2024.
The Van Duzer Corridor was recognized as an AVA in 2020, and it’s the perfect environment for growing grapes, especially for the most treasured varietal in Oregon, Pinot Noir. “Our goal is to represent our little corner of the valley. The defining feature of the AVA is the maritime wind coming in off the ocean,” explains Taylor. “The cold slows down the ripening and produces thicker-skinned grapes, which allows for a longer development of phenolics.” This process makes for extra aromatic, full-bodied wines with soft silky tannins and a light elegant finish. Left Coast has received national accolades for its efforts, including Oregon Winery of the Year by Wine Press NW in 2020.
The cozy tasting room at Left Coast is open seven days a week. Flights rotate through their fantastic portfolio of 37 different wines, emphasizing those not sold in stores and only available onsite. Guests can enjoy their wine with fresh, wood-fired pizza crafted by Chef Mike Strouts or try the 45 North Wine
The Left Coast Family, L-R, Renée, Karleton, Chad, baby Juniper, Cali, Taylor, Christina, Nikita, and Shardul
experience, where he’ll prepare a custom farm-to-table meal with wine pairings. Wine club members enjoy benefits like free tastings and discounts on wine and events. For a more dynamic experience, the family offers vineyard and winery tours in one of their many tour vehicles. Make sure to visit the sparkling cave, an underground space they dug on the property for aging their sparkling wines. In the warmer months, visitors can enjoy their tasting on the spacious outdoor patio or at picnic tables nestled amidst the oak savannas with live music on Friday nights.
Left Coast is partially woman and minority-owned with a unique, modern family ownership structure that’s evolved over the years. Taylor’s parents started the vineyard, and he and his three siblings were the first owners, with half of the estate in a trust for the
third generation. One of the brothers sold his share to Shardul Ghogale, now the national sales director. In 2006, the Garcia brothers joined the team and now run the entire vineyard crew, which includes many of their family members. Joe Wright, the Director of Viticulture and Winemaking, has been with the company since 2010, and his tremendous talents have been instrumental in making Left Coast what it is today.
The winery hosts events year-round, including culinary series’ and The Great White Wine Festival. They’ve also created a single-track trail run that explores the entire property, and every year on the first Saturday in August, they host Run for the Oaks. This 5-10k run raises money for continued oak forest restoration and preservation. Left Coast welcomes all kinds of visitors, from the novice to the
experienced connoisseur. They even have a bilingual associate for Spanish-speaking guests. “Even if you’ve never been wine tasting, this is a great spot to start,” Taylor says. “We pride ourselves on being an inclusive spot and are passionate about teaching beginners.”
Left Coast Estate is located at 4225 N Pacific Hwy W in Rickreall. Please give them a call at (503) 831-4916 or visit their website at leftcoastwine.com.
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SMerry Moments
Celebrate the holidays in downtown
By Angie Helvey, Active Media
mall-town Christmas celebrations are always the most magical, often reminiscent of whimsical European villages with frosty decorations, dazzling lights and crowds of festive vendors. Whether you’re shopping for the perfect gift, delighting in Santa Train Stations or marveling at the spectacular holiday scenes in Riverview Park, the schedule of jolly events for Independence is here to bring the childlike wonder of Christmas to people of all ages!
into town on a big steamer full of presents for the eager children. The train comes in from the North and proceeds to C Street, where Santa and Mrs. Claus greet the kids, and each child receives a special gift. Free photos with Santa will be provided and available online roughly a week after the event. Tons of activities including cookie decorating, ornament decorating, writing letters to Santa and more are free for all participants. All your favorite holiday tunes will be ringing in the air and kids will also get the chance to meet The Grinch, Santa’s elves and other holiday characters. A variety of generous community partners provide the toys and free lunch. Don’t miss this opportunity to make beautiful memories you’ll cherish for years to come!
This year’s celebration started on Saturday, November 30th, with a Shop Local Holiday Market presented by the Independence Downtown Association and the Heritage Museum. The shopping extravaganza included an array of local artisans and vendors with unique, oneof-a-kind gifts. But if you missed it, don’t worry — downtown Independence is full of charming shops and cozy restaurants, making it the ideal destination for Christmas shopping throughout the winter holidays!
To add to the merriment, Santa Claus is making his yearly visit to one of his favorite places, downtown Independence! Always held on the first Saturday in December, this is one of the year’s most treasured and highly anticipated events! Santa Train Station is scheduled to arrive at noon on December 7th, riding ceremoniously
Picturesque Riverview Park is a beloved part of downtown Independence year-round, and the spot becomes even more enchanting during the holiday season. From December 1st until January 2025, the Glow Holiday Light Display is free to walk through and features brilliantly lit scenes of winter whimsy that will captivate the whole family! “When the sun sets over the Willamette River and the holiday lights blink on, downtown Independence transforms into something truly magical,” says Independence Downtown Association Board President Natascha Adams. So bundle up, take a walk downtown and watch it GLOW.
December is a time for people to gather and soak up the holiday cheer, and with a tight-knit community like Independence, the celebration is extra special. “During the holidays, a spirit of kindness and joy radiates from the heart of our downtown,” Natascha says. “These events strengthen our bonds, offering opportunities to connect with friends and welcome new neighbors. In Independence, we believe the more, the merrier — everyone is welcome to join in the fun!”
For more information on Santa Train Stations, please visit their Facebook page.
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.
Die Hard (1988)
“Now I have a machine gun. Ho ho ho.” Yes, Die Hard is a Christmas movie and this is not up for debate — it’s objectively true. The movie takes place during a holiday office party, it has Christmas music, John’s wife is named Holly, there are presents, John wears a Santa hat, it snows. Millions of Americans watch this movie on Christmas Eve every year, and most polls skew in favor of it being a Christmas movie. So there. And with all the action, it’s one heck of a Christmas movie!
The infamous John McClane (Bruce Willis), a NYC cop, is visiting his estranged wife Holly (Bonnie Bedelia) and two daughters in LA on Christmas Eve. He joins his wife at her holiday office party when terrorists suddenly take everyone hostage, and no one else can save them but John! Also starring Alan Rickman, Paul Gleason, Willam Atherton, and more. It’s violent and exciting, funny, full of foul language, and rated R, so it’s ok for teens and adults only.
Home Alone (1990)
“Keep the change, ya filthy animal.” Probably the most iconic Christmas movie ever made, Home Alone is jam-packed full of hilarious quotes, slapstick and action, and remains an unmistakably heartwarming family movie. If you’ve lived under a rock for 35 years and don’t know, the story follows Kevin McCallister (Macaulay Culkin) who’s left home alone after his family forgets him in Chicago when they travel to Paris for Christmas. Being a bit of a black sheep and the youngest in a large family, Kevin welcomes this time alone when his wish comes true — that is, until “Wet Bandit” burglars Harry (Joe Pesci) and Marv (Daniel Stern) start scoping out his house. From there, Kevin develops an elaborate plan to defend his home while trying to remain self-sufficient without his family, learning many lessons along the way. Also starring Catherine O’Hara, John Heard, Kieran Culkin, John Candy, and more. One of my all-time favs, this is rated PG for slapstick violence and ok for older kids. And if you love this, Home Alone 2: Lost in New York is also fantastic.
A Charlie Brown Christmas (1965)
“Dear Santa Claus, How have you been? Did you have a nice summer?” A Charlie Brown Christmas is a timeless holiday movie that’s perfect for families, offering a heartwarming tale about the true meaning of Christmas. This cartoon follows Charlie Brown as he wrestles with the commercialization of the holiday season, feeling sad despite all the holiday fun happening around him. With the help of his friends and a scrawny little Christmas tree, Charlie discovers the joy and love of togetherness. What makes A Charlie Brown Christmas so special is its universality — the story is sweet and simple, with humor and themes of kindness and reflection that both kids and adults will appreciate. Also, not to be forgotten is the jazz-infused soundtrack by Vince Guaraldi Trio, which adds an extra layer of nostalgia. The movie is unrated but views like a G — wholesome enough for the whole family.
Stream these movies where available, or rent from your local movie store, library or rental kiosk.
PEAK
Experience
Make
Turning Dreams into Reality!
Building trust with quality work
By Patti Jo Brooks, Active Media
Photos by Laurel Bice, Active Media
CJs Home Solutions LLC, now in their third year of business, wants to say “Thank You” to the community for their confidence and overwhelming support as the company continues to grow. CJs’ slogan, “Dirt to doorknobs and everything in between!” aptly illustrates the nuts and bolts of this family-owned business. Licensed in both Oregon and Washington, CJs Home Solutions is excited to offer their vision and their skills to local Oregon clients as well as customers north of the Columbia River. Pass the word along to family, friends and acquaintances that CJs Home Solutions is making dreams come true throughout Oregon and Washington locales.
General contractors Chris Dawson and Julie Olson, a male/ female team, own and operate CJs Home Solutions LLC, a Dallas-based company. Chris’ and Julie’s passion is building outdoor structures, many of which can be viewed in their online
gallery. “We love building decks, porches, patios and fences,” they admit, adding, “There’s really nothing that we can’t do!” CJs builds quality first. They are punctual, excellent communicators, and pay great attention to detail. Dreaming of your own custombuilt home or remodel? CJs Home Solutions is your answer. With a rapidly growing clientele, CJs’ reach encompasses Portland, the Coast, Salem and Albany for starters, as well as Washington state, and they will travel for the right project. Customer service is a key component of CJs Home Solutions’ company business practices. They are known for going out of their way to make sure customers are taken care of and have what they need to complete a project successfully. “We go above and beyond to satisfy our customers,” Chris and Julie relate. “We will help in any way possible.” Before construction even begins, CJs is mindful of budgets, schedules and design to assure each client’s vision.
Chris writes the bids and provides the high-level skills and Julie’s keen eye for detail serves for quality control. “I’m going to have your back,” she promises, “even if that means re-doing something.” Ultimately, every job has to pass Julie’s “Would I accept it?” test. Some jobs require more than a two-person team and when that’s the case, Chris and Julie call upon qualified, trusted industry professionals. “We oversee everything and make sure everything is done to our standards,” Chris says, noting that CJs Home Solutions always maintains the position of project manager throughout the entire build.
For the last two years CJs Home Solutions has been renovating homes in Salem’s Historic District. “They’re very satisfied with our work and want to continue working with us,” Chris relates, pointing out that a lot of their contracts are obtained through word of mouth. “Our customers love us!” he expresses. Among CJs’ satisfied customers are Rachael and Nick Lamet, who have used CJs for five different projects and have this to say, “They take pride in what they do and it shows. I will not be looking for any other contractor ever.” Christy of How2 DoAnything remarks, “These two are by far the best you can get. Just beautiful work!”
Both Chris and Julie have lived in the area for over 20 years. They met on the job when Julie came to
work for Chris’ brother. Partners in life as well as business, Chris and Julie enjoy a blended family of eight children and twelve grandchildren. The couple’s children have all chosen to pursue various professions outside the construction business, but stay in touch with their respective parents. Julie enjoys camping with her children and Chris likes to get together as much as possible with his, as they all live close by.
CJs Home Solutions LLC invites you to view their Photo Gallery on Google and Yelp. For inquiries call Chris (971)5170958 or Julie (541)801-4300 or email cjshsconstruction@gmail. com. For additional information, visit cjshomesolutionsllc.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
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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