Sherwood Community Advantage Magazine December 2024
Published by
Active Media Publishing Group
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Matthew Nelson, Publisher Catrina Nelson, CFO
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Kate Astle, Copyeditor
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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
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MJ Media Productions Andrew Sambuceto
Henry Schifter Hayley Starkey
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Sherwood Community Advantage Magazine
DECEMBER 2024
History of Santa
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!
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_.
TUALATIN VALLEY FIRE & RESCUE
HOLIDAY SAFETY TIPS
It’s the holiday season and traditions abound. One tradition many families have is bringing a cut tree into their home and decorating it with twinkling lights and ornaments. Each year, these trees account for hundreds of fires across the nation. But keeping your tree healthy and green will help keep your holiday safe! Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue encourages you to choose a healthy tree that has been recently cut or to cut one down yourself.
Below are some tips to keep your tree merry:
å Right before placing the tree in its stand, cut about 2 inches from the base of the trunk. This helps the tree draw up water.
å Once the tree is in its stand, add water daily or as needed.
å Place the tree at least 3 feet from any heat source such as space heaters, fireplaces, heat vents, etc. Trees placed in a room where fireplaces and woodstoves are used will dry out much quicker and should be placed as far as possible from them.
å Make sure the tree doesn’t block an exit.
å Use only decorative lights that have a label of a recognized testing laboratory and make sure the bulbs, strings, and connections are not damaged or broken.
å Never use lit candles to decorate a tree.
å Check for dryness by running your hand down a branch; if the needles fall off, the tree is too dry and should be taken down and disposed of properly.
å Never burn a tree in your fireplace. The combination of dry branches, pitch, and tree oils can ignite within seconds, sending sparks and flames into the room.
å Most communities in TVF&R’s service area have a recycling program where a dry tree can be disposed of properly.
å If your choice is an artificial tree, look for the label “Fire Resistant.” This does not guarantee the tree won’t catch fire, but it indicates the tree will resist burning and should extinguish quickly.
å When it comes to brightening your home with twinkling lights, TVF&R offers the following tips:
å Only use UL-approved, low-heat lights.
å Always use outdoor lights outside and indoor lights inside.
å Never use light sets with broken sockets, frayed and/ or cracked wires, or missing sockets. Any one of these problems may cause an electrical shock or a fire.
å Prior to using a light set, place it on a non-flammable surface and plug it in for 10 to 15 minutes to check for smoking or melting.
å Lights should only be used on fresh or fire-resistant plastic trees. Never use electric lights on a metal tree as the tree can become charged with electricity from faulty lights and a person touching the tree could be electrocuted.
å Fasten outdoor lights securely to exterior walls, trees, or other firm supports to protect them from wind damage. Do not use nails or tacks to hold light strings in place. Instead, use plastic light string holders or run your light strings through hooks.
å Only use outdoor-rated extension cords with outside lighting displays.
å Turn off all lights when you go to bed or leave the house. Lights can short out and start a fire.
For additional safety tips, visit www.tvfr.com.
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
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.
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.
Folklore Unwrapped
Krampus Night and why it’s celebrated
By Robert Matsumura, Active Media
Traditionally, Christmas evokes images of Santa Claus, twinkling lights, stuffed stockings over the hearth and gifts beneath the tree. In the heart of the Alps, however, another figure lurks in the shadows of the holiday season, a horned and hairy creature that has for centuries been a part of Central European folklore — Krampus.
The Origins of Krampus
The origins of Krampus reach back to pre-Christian Alpine traditions. The name Krampus derives from the German word krampen, meaning “claw.” Rooted in ancient Norse and Germanic pagan customs, specifically those centered around winter solstice celebrations, Krampus was a horned beast with shaggy fur and a devilish appearance who roamed the land during the dark of winter. With the onset of Christianity however, devilish figures were frowned upon, so rather than eliminating Krampus altogether, he was reinterpreted as a cautionary figure who would scare children into proper behavior, working alongside the benevolent St. Nicholas.
Krampus and St. Nicholas:
An Unlikely Partnership
For every well-behaved child a troublemaker existed, and this was where Krampus came in. While St. Nicholas rewarded the good children with presents and treats, Krampus dealt with the naughty ones with spankings and even hauling them away to the underworld in some cases. The duality of St. Nicholas and Krampus mirrored the Christian concept of heaven and hell — good and evil — where virtue is rewarded and vice is punished.
Krampusnacht:
A Night of Terror
On the eve of St. Nicholas Day, December 5, Krampusnacht — “Krampus Night” is celebrated across Central Europe.
On this night, men don terrifying costumes and roam the streets as Krampus, scaring children (and sometimes adults) in Krampus parades known as Krampuslauf. These days, Krampus has expanded beyond his traditional Alpine roots. Global media, films and TV shows have embraced Krampus, and in the United States, Krampus has become something of a cult figure. Krampusthemed events, parties and even horror films have reintroduced him to a new generation.
Much of the appeal of Krampus lies in his contrast to the commercialized image of Christmas in modern culture. Krampus represents the balance between light and dark, joy and fear — a reminder that the holiday season, while full of cheer, also contains an element of mystery and unease.
Why Krampus Matters
Today Krampus continues to be popular around the world, demonstrating the power of folklore and its ability to evolve over time. Whether you find him fascinating, frightful or both, there’s no denying that Krampus has carved out a unique place in holiday history — one where the naughty children had better beware!
The Darkest Days
How the winter solstice brings hope
By Robert Matsumura, Active Media
Every year around December 21st in the Northern Hemisphere, the winter solstice occurs, marking the shortest day and longest night of the year. Through the centuries this annual cosmic event has inspired stories, myths, and celebrations, blending elements of nature, light, and spirituality in traditions shared by numerous cultures across the globe. At the heart of these ancient rituals and festivities is the summer solstice’s association with birth and renewal, a seasonal change in nature that heralds the coming of spring and an end to the darkness of winter.
Ancient Origins: Celebrating the Sun’s Return
Before calendars and clocks were invented, people lived in accordance with the sun’s cycles. In a sun-centric world the solstice served as a pivotal marker in their agricultural, spiritual, and social lives. For many cultures, the winter solstice was viewed with trepidation — a time when the world could fall into chaos, a dark period where the sun was symbolically at its weakest — before returning to glory as the days lengthened. The summer solstice was a reminder of the sun’s return, bringing warmth, growth, and sustenance. Elaborate feasts were often held, sacred rituals performed, and fires lit to encourage the rebirth of the sun.
Northern Europe: Yule and the Norse Pantheon
One of the most famous winter solstice traditions took place in Northern Europe where ancient Germanic and Norse tribes celebrated Yule. A festival that honored the Norse gods, particularly Odin, Yule focuses upon the rebirth of the sun. Evergreens, symbolizing eternal life, were central to Yule, and homes were decorated with boughs of holly, ivy, and mistletoe — plants resistant to winter’s chill. Over time, these traditions blended with Christian customs, resulting in today’s wreaths, garlands, and Christmas trees.
Rome: Saturnalia and the Feast of Misrule
Across the Roman Empire, the solstice celebration known as Saturnalia was a time of joyous revelry. Saturnalia honored Saturn, the god of agriculture and time with festivities that flipped societal norms. During Saturnalia, carnivallike chaos reigned — slaves could become masters for a day, gambling was permitted, and everyone feasted. It was a season of merriment, gift-giving, and the relaxation of social rules. Everyone — rich and poor alike — could partake in the festivities. Saturnalia had a profound influence on later Christmas celebrations, particularly the communal feasting, exchanging of gifts, and sense of goodwill.
The British Isles: Stonehenge and the Celtic Solstice
East Asia: Dongzhi Festival and Harmony in Balance
In East Asia, the Dongzhi Festival signals the arrival of winter and the rebirth of yang energy. Dongzhi, meaning “extreme of winter,” derives from the concept of yin and yang — the cosmic balance of dark and light. While the winter solstice represents the darkest day, it also signifies the gradual rise of yang energy and the light.
In the British Isles, Stonehenge remains one of the most iconic sites associated with the winter solstice. Constructed thousands of years ago, this mysterious stone circle aligns perfectly with the solstice sunrise, drawing crowds of onlookers annually to witness the event. Though Stonehenge’s origin is unknown, it’s clear that its creators were deeply attuned to the celestial rhythms, and utilized the monument to mark important seasonal shifts.
In the Celtic world, the summer solstice was a time when the Oak King triumphed over the Holly King in their eternal battle for earth’s light. The Oak King, symbolizing the waxing sun, would begin to grow stronger with the longer days, heralding the return of spring. Rituals involved bonfires, feasts, and offerings to the gods in gratitude for the return of the light.
In China, Dongzhi is a time for family reunions and feasting on specific culinary favorites such as tangyuan — glutinous rice balls served in sweet syrup, symbolizing family unity. In southern China, dumplings are also popular and are believed to protect against the winter cold. Dongzhi is also a time for reconnecting with ancestors, and the belief is that one’s good fortune and health in the coming year depends on harmony between the living and the deceased.
Indigenous Peoples: Honoring the Dark and the Light
For many Indigenous cultures of North America, summer solstice rituals were held to celebrate the return of the sun. The Pueblo peoples celebrated Soyal with purification rituals and dances meant to awaken the sun from its winter sleep. Central to the ceremony is the creation of kachina dolls — symbolic representations of deities or spirits — that play a crucial role in the life cycle.
Far to the North, the Inuit people of Alaska and Canada honored the summer solstice with a festival called Quviasukvik, a time when families convened to share food and stories, reflect on the past and anticipate the return of the sun. As a people accustomed to harsh Arctic winters, the summer solstice indeed was cause for celebration. Longer days and the return of the sun literally represented survival in the brutal conditions of the North.
South America: Inti Raymi and the Andean Celebration
In the Southern Hemisphere, the summer solstice occurs in June. Among the Incas, Inti Raymi, the festival of the sun was held in honor of Inti, the sun god. The Incas, who revered the sun as their primary deity, performed elaborate ceremonies in honor of Inti to ensure good harvests in the coming year. At the heart of the solstice celebrations was the city of Cusco, where ritual sacrifices, offerings and dances were performed to demonstrate the people’s gratitude and reverence for the sun’s critical role in sustaining life. Modern day celebrations honoring Inti are held to this day.
The Solstice Today: A Time for Reflection and Renewal
While solstice celebrations have evolved over the centuries, themes of light, rebirth, and reflection are timeless. From spiritual gatherings to cozy times around the hearth, the winter solstice invites us to anticipate the return of the sun and all that it brings to the earth. So as the winter solstice rolls around, take a moment to slow down, reflect, and find balance, like our ancestors once did. On the darkest of days, the solstice is a celebration of endurance, hope, and abundance that light makes possible in our lives.
ACROSS
1 Oregon state tree and tree in “A Charlie Brown Christmas” (2 words)
4 German-themed Washington town known for its Christmas spirit
6 Christmas beverage also known as “milk punch”
8 Last name of Ebenezer Scrooge’s ghostly business partner
10 Nine are gifted in “The Twelve Days of Christmas” (2 words)
12 Popular cuisine for Jewish people on Christmas and often the only type of restaurant open on Dec. 25
13 Jewish candelabrum with nine branches lit during Hanukkah
14 Number of reindeer pulling Santa’s sleigh
DOWN
1 Disney character that is a Christmas Eve staple in Sweden and the character that inspired the current U of O mascot (2 words)
2 George Bailey’s beloved town in “It’s a Wonderful Life” (2 words)
3 Third reindeer shouted in “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer”
5 Christmas decoration originally made from strands of silver
7 Opener or famous holiday ballet
9 The Christmas _____ Parade lights up the Willamette River
11 European country in which the Christmas tree originated
13 Another name for the three wise men
Have a Happy Holiday and a safe New Year!
MOLYMPICS OREGON
attress World Northest will be supporting Special Olympics Oregon via the Polar plunge. They will be donating time, money and TV advertising in addition, they will be getting donations from their customers. Their main fundraiser, The Polar Plunge, takes place February 24 11 a.m. at Willamette Park in Portland and a 5k fun run at 10 a.m. “Polar Plunge is your chance to step out of your comfort zone by jumping into an unforgettable experience that directly impacts the lives of Special Olympics Oregon Athletes. By participating you provide 5,000+ Special Olympics Oregon Athletes access to sports, activities, and community,” says Special Olympics Oregon.
Why is this nonprofit so important? “Special Olympics Oregon believes in the transformative power and pure joy of
athletic competition. Every day across the state, we help children and adults with intellectual disabilities become athletes and grow a strong, supportive community of advocates. Through year-round training and serious competition, Special Olympics participants journey along a proven pathway to better health, essential life skills and lifelong friendships.” Please help us raise funds by donating online or visiting one of our local stores.
We are family-owned and -operated and we strive to greet every customer with a smile, listen to your needs and concerns and give a great overall experience.
Get a better night’s sleep and help support your community at one of our many local Mattress World Northwest locations. Check us out online at mattressworldnorthwest.com to find the closest location and store hours.
