A FIESTA OF FLAVOR!
Sherwood Community Advantage Magazine
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
Justin Andress, Communications Manager
GRAPHIC DESIGN
Hilary Berg Sean Carver
Dani DeGraw Brittany Jungenberg
Morgan King Justin Nelson
Shawn Schmidt 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
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
Looking to reach local consumers? We specialize in direct-mail products: community magazine advertising, mailing inserts, postcards and more. For more details, call 503.825.2111 or email info@ActiveMediaUSA.com
FEBRUARY 2025
TASTE OF THE TOWN La Sierra Sherwood
What’s in a Heart?
Why candy hearts remain a cultural icon
By Donovan Darling, Active Media
Necco wafers, candy hearts, Sweethearts, conversation hearts. The candy goes by many names, with silly messages and a chalky consistency. The notorious candy hearts have a strange history that harkens back to a Civil War-era pharmacy and America’s first candy machine. The story begins in 1847, with a pharmacist named Oliver Chase, who invented a machine to produce lozenges. Back then, apothecary lozenges were popular for sore throats and other illnesses. But 175+ years ago, the process to make a lozenge was labor-intensive: pulverizing medicine and sugar paste by hand with a mortar and pestle, kneading dough, then rolling and cutting out little discs. Considered the first candy machine, Oliver invented a lozenge cutter to simplify the process and smartly shifted from making medicine to making candy, founding Chase and Company, which later became New England Confectionery Company, or Necco!
Here’s where the story gets really interesting. Legend tells us that Union soldiers during the Civil War carried Necco wafers, known as “hub wafers,” and Oliver Chase might have been inspired by the love letters these soldiers carried. Historians also suggest that perhaps Daniel Chase, Oliver’s brother, was inspired by the growing popularity of Esther Howland’s Valentine’s Day cards which began selling in the mid-1800s. A third and more likely explanation is that the candy wafers were inspired by the oddly named cockle, a popular candy shaped like a scallop seashell which contained a “motto” printed on a thin roll of paper stuffed inside. Daniel may have cleverly improved upon this design, printing the messages directly onto candy by using a felt roller pad wetted with red vegetable coloring.
However, Daniel’s “conversation candies” or “motto lozenges” weren’t heart-shaped until later in 1902. Until that time their candy was sold in a simple disc shape, but eventually they were sold in shapes like baseballs, watches and horseshoes. When the candy hearts were introduced they were hugely successful, and over the next 100 years other smaller companies began selling similar candies. In 1990, Necco acquired Stark Candy Company and became the “leading manufacturer in conversation hearts.” Today, the company claims to manufacture nearly 100,000 pounds of Sweethearts every day and approximately 8 billion candy hearts each year.
But what is a candy heart exactly? Necco offers classic Sweethearts, as well as chocolate, sugar-free, “dazzled,” and “color your own” varieties. According
to their website: “Manufacturers combine sugar, corn syrup, cornstarch, flavors, gums and colors into a mixing machine to create a dough, which then goes into a machine that presses it flat, stamps it with sayings and cuts it into hearts. After 30 minutes in a “drying tunnel,” the six different heart flavors are mixed together and packaged.” I guess they’re not made out of chalk!
Daniel Chase’s original printed lozenges were larger and therefore included longer phrases, like “HOW LONG SHALL I HAVE TO WAIT? PLEASE BE CONSIDERATE” and “WHY IS A STYLISH GIRL LIKE YOU A THRIFTY HOUSEKEEPER?” Obviously, times have changed! There were also weddingthemed sayings, such as “MARRIED IN WHITE, YOU HAVE CHOSEN RIGHT,” “MARRIED IN SATIN, LOVE WILL NOT BE LASTING.” Previous sayings like the deeply dated “FAX ME” and “GROOVY” have been discontinued. The more timeless messages like “BE MINE” and “KISS ME” you may be more familiar with. Whatever your feelings on candy hearts, they’re a fun and fascinating little piece of American history.
Stop by on February 22nd for STEAM 11am - 1pm
STEAM Saturdays are back! Drop in to work with 3D pens, Snap Circuits, robots and so much more. There is something for everyone at this station-based program. Everyone welcome.
Sun, Dec 1 2024 through Fri, Feb 28 2025
Adult Winter Reading Challenge
Continues through Feb 28 2025
We invite you to expand your reading life and explore new voices and genres this winter--now with more prizes! To participate, stop by the Library or scan the QR to sign up and learn more.
Check out the Monthly Book Lists
Sign Up Here!
Sign Up Here!
Services Available
• Storytimes
• Library of Things
• Digital Magazines
• 3D Printing
• Library Mail Service
• Fun Children’s Area
• Tech Help
• Streaming Movies
• E-books
• Audiobooks
• Digital Newsstand
• Live Homework Help
Each month, curated book lists on specific topics or genres are provided for all ages through newsletters. Sign up to receive updates on the latest library events and services. Past themes include celebrating heritage months, seasonal reads, and diverse authors. Find all recommendations on Sherwood BookMatch. See All These Amazing Activities And Much More At Your Public Library
HOURS
Mon-Thur, 10 am to 8 pm Fri & Sat, 10 am to 6 pm Sun, 1 pm to 5 pm
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!
Leafing a Legacy
Leafguard’s gutter revolution
In 1993, a quiet revolution unfolded in the world of home maintenance. Englert, Inc., renowned for their dedication to product innovation, unveiled the Leafguard® brand gutter system. For years, the company’s engineers had labored in obscurity, driven by a single goal: to create a solution that would make clogged gutters a relic of the past. Their tireless efforts bore fruit in the form of the Leafguard gutter — a sleek, proprietary one-piece system designed to shed leaves, water, pests, and debris with unparalleled efficiency.
The Leafguard system was more than just a new product; it was a game-changer. Before its introduction, homeowners had to grapple with cleaning out gutters, often climbing dangerous ladders or hiring costly professionals. The Leafguard gutter, however, promised a lifetime of clog-free performance. Its ingenious design, combining both durability and functionality, relieved anyone tired of the seasonal hassle of gutter maintenance.
News of the Leafguard’s reliability spread like wildfire. The gutter system didn’t take long to become a staple for residential properties. The once-tedious upkeep was no longer a burden; instead, people enjoyed the peace of mind that came with a maintenance-free system, backed by a lifetime guarantee.
As time passed, Leafguard’s reputation only grew stronger, until it was awarded the prestigious Good
Housekeeping seal, a testament to its quality and trustworthiness. Today, the Leafguard brand remains a beacon of innovation and reliability in home improvement. The once-pioneering solution became a trusted household name. In the world of gutters, Leafguard continues to set the standard, turning a simple innovation into a lasting legacy. For more information or a free estimate, visit them online at leafguard. com or call 503-822-6529.
COUNTY
ISenior Citizens Council of Clackamas County
n the month of February, all MWNW stores will be asking for donations to support the Senior Citizens Council of Clackamas County. This nonprofit has served seniors of Clackamas County for 50 years and counting!
Why is this nonprofit so important? Their services provide critical support to at-risk seniors and adults with disabilities who are in danger of abuse, neglect and exploitation. The highly skilled and professional staff protect the seniors’ finances, oversee bill-paying needs, and when necessary, find them a safe, clean place to live. Their staff then continue to regularly check on each client for as long as they are needed.
On average, their staff serves 750 new clients annually. 75 percent of their clients are women and 70 percent are at or below the federal poverty level. Seniors above 85 years old are the fastest growing population and are also the most in need of services. It is estimated that 1 in 6 seniors will be a victim of financial exploitation and 1 in 10 will be abused or neglected. Please help us raise funds by donating online or visiting one of our 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.
Is Solar For You?
Local renewable energy company puts you first!
By Patti Jo Brooks, Active Media
Thinking of going solar? Willamette Valley’s Sunpath Services is ready and waiting to install your residential, commercial or farm solar panel project. Taking a consultative, low-pressure approach, Sunpath Services focuses on first understanding a client’s needs, then providing accurate information allowing them to make informed decisions and proceed at their own pace.
“With utility costs continuing to increase, many homeowners are turning to solar for energy independence and to gain some control over their electricity bills. We provide that expert guidance, helping them understand what it costs, how it will perform and what the installation process looks like,” explains owner Chet Zimmer. A company that cares about the individual, Sunpath makes it their mission to educate and support potential clients while they explore solar options for their home or business.
Subsequently, if Sunpath determines that solar isn’t viable due to roof construction, affordability, etc., they operate under full transparency and will inform you of such. Their primary concern is what is in the home or business owner’s best interest.
Sunpath’s high level of commitment extends to employees and customers alike, making it a truly great company. A seasoned team, averaging 15 years of solar, electrical and roofing experience, bring unmatched expertise to every project. Customers empowered with knowledge confidently make their own solar decisions. “We believe that when you understand your options, you’re better equipped to make smart decisions that benefit your home and family,” Zimmer points out.
The first step is simple! Just fill out the contact form at http://sunpathoregon.com/ to receive a free system design and project estimate within 24 hours via email. Customers can then ask questions, schedule a call, request a free onsite assessment, or pass altogether if solar won’t fit their needs. Committed to customer care, Sunpath provides clear and consistent communication throughout each project including follow up to any questions or concerns that arise. Sunpath also provides a 10-year workmanship and labor warranty in addition to any manufacturer warranties.
Proud owners of Sunpath Services, Chet Zimmer and Jake Hoskins are lifelong residents of the Portland area, with Zimmer growing up in Canby and Hoskins in Forest Grove. They also take pride in being good neighbors and active members in the community. “Our office and warehouse are located just off of Allen Blvd. in Beaverton, keeping us rooted in the region we serve,” Zimmer relates. Every year, the Sunpath Season of Giving, a favorite holiday tradition, supports local nonprofits chosen by the employees. Donations this year went to Boys and Girls Aid, Silverton Area Community Aid, Autism Society of Oregon, With Love, TIPNW, Spark NW, SOS Pet Rescue and Wheel to Walk.
Mention the magazine ad and receive a $500 discount on your solar project! Also, be sure to check for any local incentive programs and federal tax credits for renewable energy.
Sunpath Services is located at 9978 SW Arctic Dr. in Beaverton. Call 503-433-6336 or visit their website at sunpathoregon.com.
How an ancient festival inspired a modern tradition
By Robert Matsumura, Active Media
On February 14th each year, millions of people around the world exchange cards, chocolates and flowers, and express their love. While Valentine’s Day is indeed a cherished tradition, its origins are less widely understood. What is the true story behind this day dedicated to romance? Was there really a Saint Valentine? To answer these questions requires a journey back to Europe during the days of the Roman Empire when Christianity was still struggling to gain a foothold in the West.
The Mysterious Saint Valentine
The origins of Valentine’s Day are shrouded in mystery, with at least three different saints named Valentine or Valentinus recognized by the Catholic Church. One widely accepted legend involves Valentine of Rome, a Christian priest in third-century Rome. According to this tradition, Emperor Claudius II banned marriages for young men, believing that single men made better soldiers. Valentine, a Christian priest, defied the emperor by performing marriages in secret for young couples in love. When his actions were discovered, Valentine was arrested and eventually executed on February 14th about 270 AD. Over the centuries, Valentine became a symbol of romantic devotion and his martyrdom was
associated with the holiday bearing his name. However, other accounts suggest that Valentine of Terni was imprisoned for helping Christians escape harsh Roman prisons. While jailed, he is said to have fallen in love with the jailer’s daughter and performed a miracle by curing her of blindness. Legend has it that he wrote her a letter signed “From your Valentine,” a phrase that has become iconic. Whether fact or folklore, these tales all emphasize Valentine’s courage, faith, and commitment to love. After much debate over the centuries, a scholarly study was published on the subject in 1966 by priest and scholar Padre Augustino Amore, which concluded that the only martyred Valentine was Valentine of Terni. According to the study, Bishop Valentine of Terni was the only Saint Valentine to be included in all the oldest martyrologies. In further support of this, in 1927, laborers on a road project in the vicinity of the saint’s supposed burial place actually discovered fragments from a Christian martyr’s tomb, thus supporting his existence.
Pagan Roots and Christian Influence
Far before Valentine’s Day was officially established, mid-February was associated with fertility and love in ancient Rome. Celebrated from February 13th to 15th, the pagan festival of Lupercalia was a raucous
affair involving sacrifices, feasting, and ritual matchmaking.
One notable tradition involved the names of young women being placed in a jar from which men drew at random, forming temporary romantic partnerships — or sometimes lifelong bonds.
With the rise of Christianity, the Church moved to replace pagan practices with Christian observances. In 496 AD, Pope Gelasius I declared February 14th as the Feast of Saint Valentine, thus effectively Christianizing the festivities. This initiative marked the beginning of Valentine’s Day as a religious celebration, though centuries would pass before the holiday became fully associated with romantic love.
Commercial Valentine’s Day
The 18th and 19th centuries saw Valentine’s Day explode in popularity among the general public.
Fueled by advances in printing technology and the development of the postal service, celebration of the holiday really took off. Affordable, massproduced Valentine’s cards became widely available featuring a plethora of sentimental verses, elaborate designs, and romantic imagery.
Courtly Love and Medieval Traditions
It was in the Middle Ages when the romantic aspect of Valentine’s Day really gained traction. By this time, Saint Valentine was already regarded as a patron of love, fueled to a great extent by the poet Geoffrey Chaucer. In his 14th-century poem “Parlement of Foules,” Chaucer linked Valentine’s Day to the pairing of birds in early spring, a metaphor for courtship and love.
The exchange of love notes and tokens flourished during this period and became a common practice among the nobility. The first recorded Valentine’s note dates back to 1415, when Charles, Duke of Orléans, composed a heartfelt poem to his wife while a prisoner in the Tower of London. His words are preserved to this day in the British Library, serving as a testament to enduring love.
In the United States, Esther Howland, nicknamed the “Mother of the American Valentine,” played a key role in popularizing Valentine’s cards. Inspired by ornate English designs, Howland began creating and marketing hand-crafted cards during the 1840s. Her efforts contributed to the transformation of Valentine’s Day into a major commercial event, laying the groundwork for the card-exchanging tradition we enjoy to this day.
Modern Valentine’s Day: Love in All Its Forms
In modern times, Valentine’s Day is a global celebration. In the United States, the holiday has extended beyond romantic relationships to include expressions of love and appreciation for friends, family, and even pets. Children exchange cards at school, while workplaces hold themed events to foster camaraderie.
Other countries add their own unique twists to the celebration. In Japan, chocolate takes center stage on Valentine’s Day with women traditionally gifting handmade or store-bought chocolates to men. A month later, on March 14th, men
reciprocate the gesture on White Day, gifting women white chocolate in return. In South Korea, the same two days are celebrated, but a third day is added called Black Day, in which single friends come together to celebrate being single; the name derives from a noodle dish with black sauce. In Finland and Estonia, Valentine’s Day was transformed into Friends Day and includes friends and significant others.
Love in the Digital Age
In the 21st century, technology has taken Valentine’s Day to the next level. Online dating apps help people forge romantic connections, while social media provides platforms for sharing love stories and memories. Virtual gifts and e-cards have also grown in popularity, reflecting the increasingly digital nature of contemporary relationships.
A Winning Combination
Over the centuries Valentine’s Day has evolved from ancient rituals and saintly sacrifices to a global celebration of love and connection. The history of this holiday showcases the universal human desire to express affection and nurture bonds. Whether Valentine’s Day means grand gestures or simple acts of kindness for you, take a moment to reflect on the rich history that has culminated in this yearly celebration of love and good will.
HEALTHY SMILES
Water Flossers
By Debi M. Huyssoon, D.M.D, Owner, General Dentist
When patients ask what additional dental aids, besides toothbrush and string floss, they can use to maintain healthier teeth, we recommend water flossers. For patients with dental implants, gum recession, braces or numerous dental restorations, a water flosser can effectively dislodge food debris that tooth brushing and flossing alone can miss. These flossers can direct a stream of water around orthodontic brackets, curved corners of roots and harder to reach areas under the gums to leave your teeth feeling smoother and cleaner.
They can be purchased online or directly from big box stores, and are relatively inexpensive compared to electric toothbrushes. If you are purchasing one, I would recommend one that is attached with a cord, the cordless types are harder to manipulate around the mouth and are quite a bit larger.
How to Use a Water Flosser
Water flossers are only effective if properly used. Below are steps on how to use them. When you set up your new water flosser, keep the dial at the medium setting or lower. This will prevent damaging the gums and decrease root sensitivity that can be caused by higher water pressures.
Steps:
1. Fill the water vessel with new warm water
2. Bend your head down over the sink
3. Place the water flosser in your mouth
4. Turn the water pressure setting to medium or lower & toggle the unit power to “on”
5. Slightly open more mouth so the excess water can drip out of your mouth
6. Press “on” button attached to the handle
7. Spray between each tooth, up near the gums on both the cheek side and the tongue or palate side. Follow the curvature of your teeth along the junction between the teeth and the gums (it will feel like your making U’s around the gumlines of your teeth)
8. Use all the water contained in the reservoir
9. Switch handle button to “off” and take out of your mouth (to prevent spraying water all over)
10. Allow the unit to airdry
11. Follow the maintenance instructions and be sure to keep the unit clean
If you want to know other ways to have a healthier mouth, schedule an appointment with our office. We are always looking for new patients that are seeking better ways to maintain their optimal dental health. You can call, text, email or visit our website to schedule an appointment. We look forward to seeing you soon.
Sherwood Old Town Dental
At Sherwood Old Town Dental, we want our patients to feel as comfortable as possible when they walk into our office. From the moment you call, to the moment you leave your dental appointment, we want you to feel like you have been taken care of beyond your expectations. We truly value all of our patients and have created a fun, comfortable, clean, and very professional office. We hope that you will let us be your next dental providers.
Dr. Debi M. Huyssoon Dr. Jason Atack
• Up to two dental check-ups (emergency or routine)
• Two routine dental cleanings
• Annual check-up x-rays
• One Fluoride treatment at a cleaning or touch up whitening gel
• 10% OFF all other dental treatment, NO ANNUAL LIMIT and also applies to cosmetic procedures
• Add additional dependent children during initial enrollment for a significantly reduced fee per person.
• Cannot include anyone diagnosed with gum (periodontal) disease
Two Times the Tacos
La Sierra’s second location shines
By Angie Helvey, Active Media
Photos by Malaina Kinne, Active Media
When restaurant owner Victor Lopez decided to open his second installation of La Sierra Mexican Grill, he knew Sherwood would be the perfect place. “I liked the town, and many of the customers at our first location in Dundee came from Sherwood.” Open since July 2023, La Sierra Mexican Grill Sherwood has quickly become a favorite local spot and is known for fresh, scratch-made Mexican cuisine served in a cozy, family-owned restaurant directly off 99W.
After immigrating from Mexico, Victor’s first job as a dishwasher was the ideal start to learning the intricacies of the restaurant business. “I started moving up from there, doing prep and cooking — a little bit of everything,” he explains. “You gotta be ready to jump right in.” Victor opened the first La Sierra in Dundee in 2001 and crafted a Jalisco-style menu with classic flavors and a Pacific Northwest flair. His plans for the second location were delayed by the 2020 pandemic, but once the dust settled, the Sherwood venue became an exciting reality.
The mouthwatering Sizzling Fajitas are one of La Sierra’s signature dishes, along with the Carne Asada — flavorful top sirloin charbroiled with special La Sierra spices, topped with fried onions and green peppers, and served with guacamole and pico de gallo on the side. Victor has perfected a wonderful Mexican Molcajete, a classic favorite made with Carne Asada, pollo asado, grilled sausage, shrimp sauteed with onions, green peppers and mushrooms in a special house sauce and a slice of queso fresco, garnished with roasted jalapeno pepper.
One of the newest additions is the Street Tacos, which include five warm corn tortillas filled with your choice of meat and topped with onions, cilantro and homemade sauce. It’s a dish that transports your palate straight to the streets of Mexico. “People were asking for it, and we listen to our customers,” says Victor.
La Sierra’s menu offers everyone options, no matter your appetite. Other choices include delicious appetizers for sharing, small and large combination plates, tacos, enchiladas, loaded burritos, soups and salads and crispy tostadas. A few American dishes and a children’s menu for the little ones are available. Finish your delectable meal with their luscious Homemade Flan, Fried Ice Cream, or crispy Sopapillas.
The cozy space features a familyfriendly dining room and a more intimate bar area with video poker and TVs so customers can enjoy a cold beverage and watch their favorite sports. Patio seating is available in the warmer months. La Sierra crafts an excellent margarita and offers a full bar with an impressive selection of tequila, Mexican beer, and wine options. Happy Hour is Monday through Friday from 1:00 to 4:00 pm and offers discounted drinks and snacks in both the lounge and restaurant.
The Dundee location of La Sierra is a spacious 8000-square-foot space featuring a private event venue that can accommodate up to 80 people. “We offer catering for any occasion, on or off-site. Weddings, divorces —
there’s always time to celebrate,” Victor jokes. Customers can call, email, or stop by to inquire about different options. With a team of friendly staff and plenty of regular customers, the crowd at La Sierra Mexican Grill Sherwood always feels like family. Victor credits the supportive community with their ongoing success and is adamant about giving back as much as possible, mainly through sponsoring fundraisers for local schools, churches and other organizations. “The community is what makes a business. And it’s not just
about you getting support. You have to support the community, too, as a business owner.”
La Sierra Mexican Grill is located at 20403 SW Borchers Drive in Sherwood. Please give them a call at 503-8225162, or visit their website at http:// lasierramexicangrillor.com/. La Sierra Mexican Grill & Lounge is located at 1175 OR-99W in Dundee. Contact them at 503-554-1562.
During American Heart Month, Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue invites you to join us in raising awareness of the signs and symptoms of a heart attack and the importance of immediately calling 911 in the event you or someone nearby experiences symptoms.
Unlike a sudden cardiac arrest that strikes suddenly and includes a loss of consciousness, a heart attack can develop slowly enough that you’re not aware you’re having a medical emergency. A heart attack occurs when the blood flow that brings oxygen to the heart muscle is severely reduced or cut off completely.
Symptoms typically include:
Chest discomfort in the center of the chest that lasts for more than a few minutes or goes away and returns. It can feel like uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness, or pain.
Upper body discomfort, such as pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw, or stomach.
Shortness of breath before, during or after other discomforts.
Other signs, including breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea, or lightheadedness.
The most common heart attack symptom for women and men is chest pain or discomfort. However, women are more likely to experience other symptoms, particularly shortness of breath, nausea or vomiting, back or jaw pain, pressure in the lower chest or upper abdomen, dizziness, fainting, or extreme fatigue.
The heart is a muscle. It can deteriorate with each passing minute you delay medical treatment. Don’t ignore your symptoms, and don’t drive yourself to the hospital.
Firefighters often hear heart attack patients say, “I wasn’t sure it was a heart attack,” or “I didn’t want to bother anyone.”
Remember, TVF&R crews are here for you. Our highly trained firefighter paramedics can diagnose a heart attack
and start treatment right away. Crews can also relay your EKG information to the hospital, enabling its staff to activate special heart teams and prepare for your arrival.
A heart attack can cause sudden cardiac arrest when the heart malfunctions and stops beating unexpectedly. Sudden cardiac arrest leads to death when the heart stops working properly. This can be reversed if CPR is performed, and a defibrillator is used to shock the heart and restore a normal heart rhythm.
Studies show that CPR can double or triple a cardiac arrest patient’s chance of survival.
Your assistance in performing hands-only CPR until crews arrive can make a difference. Hands-only CPR has just two easy steps: Call 9-1-1 and push hard and fast in the center of the chest to the beat of the disco song “Stayin’ Alive.”
