DALL AS
INCLUDES RICKREALL
COMMUNITY ADVANTAGE
SEASONAL
Feasts of Fat Tuesday
Pagan festivals evolved into global celebration
By Robert Matsumura, Active Media
Few celebrations capture the spirit of indulgence and revelry quite like Mardi Gras. Famous for its dazzling parades, vibrant costumes and festive atmosphere, this iconic event draws millions of visitors to New Orleans every year. But while New Orleans seems to be the hub of all things Mardi Gras, in truth, its origins are steeped in centuries-old traditions that span continents and cultures.
Tracing the roots of Mardi Gras takes us back to the ancient pagan festivals of Europe, particularly those focused on the arrival of spring, such as Saturnalia in Rome, and Lupercalia in ancient Italy. Featuring feasting, costumes, and public processions, these celebrations were a way to cast off the doldrums of winter and welcome the renewal of life. With the rise of Christianity, these pagan celebrations were integrated into, and reinterpreted by, the Church. Mardi Gras — which translates to “Fat Tuesday” in French — emerged as the final day of indulgence before the solemn 40-day season of Lent. With Lent being a time of fasting and discipline, Fat Tuesday was that last great blowout — a time to enjoy rich foods and pleasures one last time before a long period of abstinence.
At the heart of the Mardi Gras festivities is the krewe system, “Krewe” being an organization or social club that organizes and participates in Mardi Gras parades and festivities. Each krewe has its own theme, traditions, and membership requirements, contributing to the diversity and vibrancy of the celebrations. The first krewe was the Mystick Krewe of Comus in 1857, where elaborate floats, thematic parades, and nightime revelry were first introduced.
Beyond New Orleans, Mardi Gras is celebrated globally under various names and traditions. In Brazil, Rio’s Carnival dazzles with samba parades, glittering costumes, and massive street parties reflecting Brazil’s cultural fusion of African, European, and Indigenous influences. Venice’s Carnival is synonymous with opulent masked balls and intricate costumes evoking the city’s Renaissance history. Germany’s Fasching or Karneval features parades, comedic performances, and masquerades, with Cologne hosting one of the country’s largest celebrations.
Mardi Gras arrived in North America via French explorers. On March 3, 1699, Pierre Le Moyne d’Iberville and JeanBaptiste Le Moyne de Bienville landed near present-day New Orleans and dubbed the site “Pointe du Mardi Gras” in honor of the holiday. By the early 18th century, French settlers in Mobile (modern-day Alabama) and New Orleans had established Mardi Gras traditions, featuring parades, masked balls, and feasts.
Traditional Mardi Gras foods also capture the spirit of indulgence and cultural richness. King cake, a sweet pastry decorated in the holiday’s iconic colors of purple, green, and gold, often contains a hidden figurine symbolizing luck. Whoever finds it is tasked with hosting the next party. Jambalaya, gumbo, and crawfish boils showcase the Creole and Cajun culinary heritage of Louisiana, blending French, Spanish, African, and Native American influences. Beignets, deep-fried pastries dusted with powdered sugar, are also a beloved sweet treat.
More than just a party, Mardi Gras is a living tapestry of history, culture, and community. From its ancient origins to its modern expressions, it lives on as a celebration of joy, resilience and creativity. Whether you’re catching beads in New Orleans or dancing at a samba parade in Rio, Mardi Gras draws everyone into its timeless revelry. And as the locals say, “Laissez les bons temps rouler” — let the good times roll!
Heartwarming Tradition
Celebration of love benefits downtown
By Angie Helvey, Active Media
Independence is the perfect place to celebrate this month’s traditions of showing affection to loved ones, and the Independence Downtown Association is excited to invite the community to the annual “Walk of Hearts” event. Personalized hearts will be hung on the light posts during the first week of February, just in time for Valentine’s Day, and will remain displayed the entire month, decorating downtown with beauty and expressions of love.
The “Walk of Hearts” event is a yearly tradition for downtown Independence and raises funds that directly pay for the exquisitely beautiful flower baskets that are hung in the Spring. Community members, businesses and organizations alike purchase hearts — sold by the IDA during January — and can add a special message to one or both sides of the heart. These hearts offer a unique opportunity to honor loved ones,
celebrate special occasions, or simply share a message of love and kindness in the community.
The colorful hearts will adorn every light post in historic downtown Independence, creating a festive and heart-filled atmosphere for all to enjoy. Visitors can stroll through town all month and peruse the memos of love on every corner. In past years, they’ve even contained marriage proposals! But it’s not just for romance — many messages are from friends, family and colleagues. What a delightful surprise to wander downtown and spy a heartfelt message meant especially for you! The hearts are collected in early March, and some are reused from year to year.
The “Walk of Hearts” Event is a wonderful way to support the Independence Downtown Association while adding a personal touch to the downtown area. The IDA is dedicated to keeping historic charm present in Independence, and in addition to hosting the “Walk of Hearts,” they provide all the downtown flower baskets, hang and maintain holiday wreaths in the winter months and promote local businesses and events.
The city is home to many locally owned businesses and eateries, so exploring Main Street and beyond is always an adventure. To add to the celebration, many downtown shops and restaurants often offer special deals and themed meals for the occasion. Follow the Independence Downtown Association on social media for updates, and plan an excursion downtown this February with the ones you love. Whether celebrating a loved one or simply spreading some cheer, each heart becomes part of a beautiful, community-wide display of love.
For more information on the “Walk of Hearts” event, visit the IDA website at www.downtownindependence.com/hearts.
Chemeketa Graduates: The Backbone of Our Community
From the paramedics saving lives to the dental assistants ensuring your brightest smile, Chemeketa Community College graduates are everywhere, making a difference.
They are the auto mechanics keeping you on the road, the electricians powering your homes and businesses, and the skilled professionals driving our local economy forward.
Our community depends on their expertise, and so do local employers. At Chemeketa, we provide the training and hands-on experience needed to build a healthy, strong, and thriving community.
Will you be among our next group of graduates?
Explore our diverse career education pathways in healthcare, skilled trades, technology, and beyond. Your future starts here.
Chemeketa Community College
Building Careers, Strengthening Communities.
Farming Fate
Family-owned agritourism destination flourishes
A massive cleanup and restoration began and continues today, from clearing out dumpsters of garbage to building irrigation and infrastructure. The Highland cow was one of the first animal additions.
By Angie Helvey, Active Media
Photos by Laurel Bice, Active Media
Scottish Highland cows have become more well-known and increasingly popular in recent years, famous for their long, fluffy coats and docile temperaments. “They’re like giant dogs,” says Ava Jensen. “Once they trust you, you’re part of the herd.”
Ava and her husband Mat — along with their three daughters — are the owners of On the Edge Farm, a nearly 40-acre Dallas property they’ve transformed into a picturesque oasis with a friendly flock of farm animals that includes the Highland cattle, Texas Longhorns, Wagyu and Black Angus beef cattle, goats, miniature donkeys, alpacas, llamas, chickens, ducks, turkeys, meat pigs and a spirited Kune Kune pig fittingly named The Notorious P.I.G.
The couple, who both grew up as city kids, owned two acres in McMinnville with a gigantic garden when they decided to build something bigger as a legacy for their family and the community. The farm is a dream fulfilled, fueled by a passion for the property they fell in love with at first sight back in October 2021. “It had been abandoned for quite some time and was very overgrown,” says Ava. “Once we got past the weeds and saw the pond, it felt like home, and our vision expanded.”
“We’re animal lovers, and I told myself I was going to have one,” Ava says.
“About a year later, Mat was helping a gentleman find his dog, and he happened to be re-homing a Highland cow — it was fate.” The family fell in love with the breed and found that Texas Longhorns have similar personalities. “They’re very playful and friendly — they love to be around their people,” says Mat. Visitors are welcome to the farm by scheduled tours where people of all ages delight in learning about and getting up close and personal with these gentle giants. “They can brush the Highland cows and pet the donkeys and goats. Some of the kids have never seen a big animal up close like that, and for the adults, the excitement is super nostalgic. It makes them feel young again,” Mat says.
The farm also hosts photoshoots coordinated by Laurel Bice of LB Photography Ink, who’s been a huge supporter since the beginning. Birthday parties and private farm-totable events are something they’re planning to expand in 2025, along with elopement-style weddings. “We’re creating a couple of spaces where we plan to invite chefs to come and cook exclusively from the farm,” Ava adds.
But animals aren’t the only attraction at On the Edge — Mat and Ava cultivate a seasonal U-Pick garden with a variety of fresh produce customers can harvest themselves or choose from pre-picked assortments at the self-serve on-site farmstand, which also sells farm-fresh eggs. Growing methods are all-natural and yield delicious varieties of tomatoes, various squashes, peppers, beans, beets, strawberries, onions, lemon cucumbers and more.
The garden also grows a beautiful selection of pumpkins they use for their annual pumpkin patch, which they’ll hold for the third time later this year. Amenities will include coffee, food, bounce houses for kids and other attractions.
“Every year, we’re growing,” says Ava. “And, being a young family ourselves, we keep it affordable.” It’s a busy time for field trips, too, and they host schools from all over Oregon.
With Mat managing the property full time as a farmer and Ava balancing a full-time job alongside kids in competition sports, it’s unfathomable how the family
sectional fencing depending on the season and condition of the pastures.
The animals graze together and watch out for one another, including the chickens, ducks and turkeys that free-range the property.
“They’re up in your business all the time,” says Ava with a laugh, “and the kids love feeding them.”
Creating such a magical destination for the public is the family’s biggest reward.
“The community has been so supportive; we’ve just loved meeting everyone and seeing the excitement on their faces when they connect with the animals.”
Hands-on Science and Life Lessons
Dallas middle school teacher has lasting positive impact on LaCreole students
his animated teaching style. “Everything in life involves science in some way,” Ken says, emphasizing the importance of observing, experimenting and learning from mistakes. He encourages his students to take risks and not be afraid of failure as he fosters a classroom environment where trying and learning from errors is celebrated.
Ken has also been instrumental in developing the school’s STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) program, which later evolved into STEAM by adding the arts. His classes involve hands-on projects with technology like AutoCAD software, 3D printers and CNC machines. His students create everything from personalized gifts to roller coaster models as they learn critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
By Kelly Romo, Active Media
Ken Guffey, a science teacher at LaCreole Middle School in Dallas, took a unique path to the classroom. Ken grew up in a difficult family situation where he was raised by relatives due to an abusive home environment. Despite these challenges, he eventually turned his focus to education after years of hard work in various blue-collar jobs.
Initially, Ken wanted to be a physical therapist, so he studied pre-med in college. Although he maintained a strong 3.78 GPA, the program’s competitive nature at George Fox University meant his application wasn’t accepted. During this period, Ken was also a single parent who balanced school with jobs as a truck driver and road construction worker. While teaching martial arts, someone noticed his knack for teaching and suggested he consider a career in education, so he went back to school.
Now, 27 years later, Ken is a beloved teacher at LaCreole Middle School. He uses his life experiences to connect with students who face their own challenges, and his dedication has earned him a Distinguished Teacher Award.
Ken’s passion for science is infectious, making learning fun and engaging for his students. He teaches eighth grade earth science where he brings these subjects to life through
Ken believes science education is key to preparing students for the future. He teaches them to think critically, do their research and make informed decisions based on data. “Science is all about data and using the scientific method,” he says. One challenge Ken faces is keeping disengaged students motivated. He tackles this by building strong relationships and encouraging them to take risks in their learning. His goal is to make each student feel capable and valued, no matter their starting point.
Beyond the classroom, Ken has been involved in both the school and the community. He has coached soccer and baseball, served as vice president of the teachers’
union and played a key role in the development of the Morison Program, a job he held for 10 years. During his time there, he encouraged students to start a Conservation Club where they fostered partnerships with organizations like Polk Soil and Water Conservation, and Oregon Fish and Wildlife. The students’ efforts in these projects led to Ken receiving recognition for his contributions.
Ken Guffey’s journey from blue-collar work to teaching is a story of resilience and commitment. His approach not only focuses on science but also on inspiring students to think critically, face challenges head-on and find joy in learning.
PEAK HEATING AND AIR is founded on providing installation, maintenance and repairs of HVAC systems with a level of integrity that is greater than traditional companies. We only work with materials of the highest quality and our suppliers are known for their superior performance.
We are a Trade Ally of Energy Trust which affords us the opportunity to connect our customers with savings on energy solutions that are cost effective and environmentally responsible.
Experience PEAK performance and efficiency that lasts for years to come.
Make sure to ask us about our 10 year labor warranty!
Owners Shane Rodriguez and Troy DeYoung. Together, they have over 30 years of experience in the HVAC industry.
HVAC Solutions With Integrity
“Peak” quality services and products at prices you can afford!
the industry’s inefficiencies and acknowledged the opportunity to do better. Sharing the same drive, passion, and commitment to excellence, they established Peak Heating & Air in 2018 to provide HVAC installation, maintenance, and repairs with integrity. They use only the highest quality products, maintain complete transparency regarding costs and repair times, and afford unparalleled customer service across the board. And they never compromise quality for time!
By Dennis McNabb, Active Media
Photos by Laurel Bice, Active Media
Over the past decade, HVAC installation costs have ballooned due to unnecessary overhead expenses (resulting from service providers’ inefficiencies) and brand/product prices. It’s unfortunate for consumers in that we often get stuck paying these higher prices without alternative options or recourse. Fortunately, some HVAC service providers exist to buck such trends. They employ more effective and conscientious methods to deliver installation services of the highest quality while still keeping overhead costs at a minimum. One such company is our very own locally-owned and-operated Peak Heating & Air.
Peak Heating & Air is the brainchild of owners Shane Rodriguez and Troy DeYoung. After working for several years at larger corporate entities, they were each exposed to many of
Services include but are not limited to: maintenance, repair, and replacement of air conditioning units, heat pumps, furnaces, refrigeration units, and thermostats. They can also run a full home energy assessment.
As a Trade Ally of Energy Trust of Oregon, they are licensed to provide tools and recommendations to help you save money on energy solutions that are both costeffective and environmentally responsible. They offer financing through their partnership with FTL Finance and a vast array of service plans designed to best suit your specific needs.
When it comes to choosing HVAC service providers, there is no shortage of alternatives. Few, however, promise the same level of care, expertise, and quality of work as Peak Heating & Air, and at such a fair price. Because this is a locally-owned business, both owners have close ties to the community. They are heavily involved in many local charities and regularly donate time, money and equipment to various causes. The Dallas community is home and they pride themselves on treating customers and staff members alike as friends and family.
Don’t waste your time or your hard-earned money looking elsewhere. Peak Heating & Air is the premier business of its kind in the region and boasts an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Whether you need a quick service call or a full energy assessment, contact them today for a free consultation. On a side note, if you are an HVAC expert looking for a job, they are hiring!
For more information, check out their website: peakheatingandair.net or call 503-623-0800.
The Power of Words: Part One
“Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me.”
By Kate Walpole, Cross & Crown Counseling
Most of us grew up with this familiar phrase, using it as a defensive shield in our best attempt to soften the painful blow of the word curses penetrating our souls. We denied the hurtful claims and told ourselves a lie, words will never hurt me.
Words do hurt us. As children develop their sense of identity and beliefs they are being shaped through experiences with their parents, siblings, peers, and community. If the messages of imperfection and rejection are being communicated to the child, the message becomes lodged in the soul and becomes a force for harm, consciously and subconsciously.
The greatest wounding comes from words spoken by someone in authority. Authority figures are parents, spouses,
teachers, and pastors. Wounding is often not intentional, but it is powerful. Words said in anger and self-justifying responses will have the greatest impact.
How do you know if you are living under word curses? Identify any words or phrases spoken to you that were hurtful and wounded your heart. Ask yourself if you see evidence in your life of negative patterns of thoughts and behaviors rooted in false beliefs about your value and significance.
Reparenting yourself is a tool used to rewrite words and beliefs that create a positive cycle of thinking and behavior. Look for part two in the next edition of Community Advantage for more on reparenting and how to establish positive word cycles and beliefs.
A Taste of Home
Roadside diner serves homestyle cuisine & fresh bakes
By Angie Helvey, Active Media
Photos by Lauren Bice, Active Media
Ask a regular customer about Westside Pacific Family Restaurant & Saloon and they’ll tell you stories of hot, fresh cinnamon rolls dripping with icing and juicy fried chicken cooked until perfectly crispy and golden brown. Located conveniently on Pacific Highway in Rickreall, it’s the best place in town to enjoy classic American comfort food in a cozy eatery and lounge where everyone feels like family.
Previously Rock-N-Rogers at Farrols, Westside Pacific opened in June of 2022 and quickly became a local favorite. Owner Jasmine Bedortha was eight years old when her parents, Clayton and Angie, bought Tater’s Cafe in Dallas, so she grew up hanging out at the restaurant, helping with small tasks like bussing tables. “I really wanted to follow in my parents’ footsteps,” she explains. “I feel like it’s in my blood.” The current operation is also a family affair — Angie does all the baking from scratch, and Clayton cooks in the kitchen. The homestyle menu at Westside Pacific caters to all three meals of the day — and any others you’d like to fit in! Breakfast and lunch are served all day and include all your favorites prepared the Westside Pacific way. Customers especially love the Chicken Fried Steak and Chicken Fried Chicken — tender beef or juicy chicken breast that are hand-dipped, cooked to
perfection and served with their famous housemade gravy. Then there’s the Hot Mess, which includes fried chopped bacon, sauteed mushrooms, and onions on a bed of crispy hashbrowns, covered with hollandaise sauce and topped with two perfectly seasoned eggs. For lunch, the Rueben is a popular choice, piled high with slowcooked corned beef, melty Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and dripping with Thousand Island dressing, served on grilled rye bread.
Most everything at Westside Pacific is housemade and served in generous portions, so come for dinner and feast on St. Louis Style BBQ Pork Ribs, Family Recipe Beef Stroganoff, Biscuit Chicken Pot Pie or Beer-Battered Fish and Chips. Other popular entrees are the hand-cut Ribeye or New York Strip with a loaded baked potato and a choice of soup or salad. Prime Rib is available on Fridays and Saturdays and is cut to order. No matter how satiated you are after the meal, you can’t miss out on dessert, which includes pie and ice cream, gooey chocolate cake, homemade milkshakes and more!
Jasmine’s goal from the beginning was to create a destination. “It’s a place people can come to hang out, maybe have a drink or two,” she says. The saloon side has a full bar, big-screen TVs, two pool tables and video poker. The talented bartenders will whip up the libation of your choice or you can peruse a tasty selection of beer, wine and local cider. It’s the perfect place to relax and watch a game or visit on Friday nights for karaoke. Happy hour
is every day from 2:30 to 5:30 p.m. with discounted drinks and pub snacks. The space at Westside Pacific features a banquet room that people can reserve for events and large parties. Jasmine and her family strongly believe in giving back to the community,
so they also use the space in November for free holiday meals. “Every year on Thanksgiving, we do our free Thanksgiving dinner, and anyone is welcome to join us,” Jasmine says. They’ve historically served hundreds of people.
Jasmine has always lived in the Dallas area and enjoys her local regulars. The Rickreall community definitely has that smalltown feel that can often be found in rural Oregon. “The customers are my favorite part,” she says, “Everyone is so friendly, and I love being able to joke around with them.” So next time you’re craving a hot, homemade meal served
alongside a friendly local crowd, stop by Westside Pacific Family Restaurant & Saloon. You’ll know you’re there by the wagon wheel out front and the aroma of freshly baked delights and homestyle comfort food coming from within.
Westside Pacific Family Restaurant & Saloon is located at 670 S Pacific Hwy W in Rickreall. Please give them a call at (503) 831-4601 or visit their Facebook page for more information.
Owners Troy DeYoung & Shane Rodriguez