WE S T LINN
West Linn Community Advantage Magazine
FEB/MAR 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
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 CHECK
TASTE OF THE TOWN Rivershore Bar & Grill
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.
Responsible Pet Ownership
Risks and benefits of spay/neuter in dogs
By Dr. Clara Medalen
Spaying and neutering, often called castration, is a common procedure to prevent pet overpopulation. It’s typically done before puberty, around six months of age, though it can be performed earlier. This practice has significantly reduced the euthanasia of unwanted pets, from 15 million annually in the 1970s to 1.5 million in 2017, according to the ASPCA.
Castration has notable benefits, including increased lifespan. A University of Georgia study found spayed females live 23% longer, neutered males 18% longer, and sterilized cats even longer. The procedure also lowers the risk of certain reproductive cancers, like mammary tumors in females and testicular cancer in males. For instance, spaying before a female dog’s first heat reduces the risk of mammary cancer to near zero.
However, there are risks. Early castration may increase the likelihood of bone cancers, such as osteosarcoma, and orthopedic issues like hip dysplasia and ligament injuries. These conditions are linked to delayed closure of growth plates caused by early removal of sex hormones. Castrated dogs are also more prone to obesity, which can exacerbate joint problems.
Other health concerns include increased risks of urinary incontinence, especially in females spayed before six months, and immune disorders such as hypothyroidism and autoimmune diseases. Castrated dogs may also have higher rates of adverse vaccine reactions.
Research indicates that timing plays a significant role. For some breeds, delaying the procedure until after growth plates close can reduce the risk of joint issues. However, delayed castration may allow certain cancers to develop.
Ultimately, the decision to spay or neuter should be tailored to each dog’s needs. Factors like breed, size, and lifestyle, along with discussions with a veterinarian, are crucial in weighing the benefits against the risks. While castration has undeniably reduced stray populations and saved lives, responsible pet ownership involves careful consideration of what’s best for your pet’s long-term health. For more information about spaying & neutering visit www.cloudberrylanechiropractic.com.
Exceptional Craftsmanship
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.
Trusted Tree Services
By Dennis McNabb, Active Media
Photos by Andrew Sambuceto, Active Media
Here in the Pacific Northwest, we are fortunate to call home a region teeming with vast, forested landscapes that provide both natural beauty and a sense of calm. Cozy homes nestled beneath lush canopies of green are the inspiration for storybooks and the envy of all. What is not always taken into consideration, however, is the amount of time and effort that goes into caring for these types of landscapes — particularly the trees. It is a common misconception that mature, well-established trees do not require regular care, maintenance, or even watering (during the summer), but that could not be further from the truth. If you are one of those fortunate enough to live on forested property, and especially if you haven’t employed certified arborists in the past, Sequoia Tree Service should be your next call!
Owner/Founder Daniel Miramon established the business in 2018 but has 18 years of experience in the industry. Combined
with the rest of his team, they have over 25 years. In the arboreal realm, there is very little these guys haven’t seen or done.
Whether your trees are suffering from disease, infestation (by lethal woodboring beetles), storm damage or simple overgrowth, Sequoia Tree Service offers free consultations and comprehensive solutions to address your every concern. And by emphasizing fast, courteous and consistent communication with every customer, Sequoia Tree Service has received an incredible response from the communities they serve.
In fact, since opening, word has spread quickly. The team’s stellar reputation and superior service have grown the business by leaps and bounds. As a result, Daniel has been able to
purchase additional equipment (such as a 70-foot bucket truck as well as an industrial stump grinder) and hire more people so they can provide even better service than before. No job is too big or too small! Tree removal, pruning and
trimming, cabling (reinforcing the tree’s structural integrity with cables), storm clean-up, lot clearing, and stump grinding and removal — they do it all. And if that’s not enough, the overwhelming abundance of rave reviews and glowing testimonials packing their website should tell you the rest of their story.
Sequoia Tree Service is a local, family-owned and -operated business that has been working tirelessly to earn its reputable standing in the industry. Although based in Damascus, they serve customers throughout the Portland
Metropolitan region. Don’t wait for your tree to fall! Signs that your tree(s) may need attention include hanging, broken, damaged, or dead limbs; abnormalities in the bark; damaged roots; excessive sap or sawdust at the base of the trunk (signs of a beetle infestation); and significant leaning, particularly if the angle is becoming noticeably worse. Be vigilant and be proactive. These towering giants are the pride and joy of the Pacific Northwest. They are the very essence of nature and beauty, but if not properly maintained, they can cause a lot of damage to your property.
Sequoia Tree Service has the experience and equipment to take on any tree concerns you might have. Schedule your free consultation today! Call 503-710-4885, check out their website: sequoia3service.com, or email them at: sequoia.3service@gmail.com.
Where the River Meets the Road
Premium Steak & Seafood on the Waterfront
with crispy bacon and dripping with ranch.
Chef Jorge Dominguez has been the creator of exceptional surf and turf dishes at Rivershore for the last ten years, preparing beautiful cuts of grass-fed beef like ribeye blue and filet mignon, and fresh, succulent seafood options like halibut creole, grilled prawn skewers, and salmon stuffed with feta cheese, crab and bay shrimp. Specials are available nightly, like the Monday Night Steak Special, which features your favorite cut of meat in a three-course meal,
By Angie Helvey, Active Media
Photos By Brittany Jungenberg, Active Media
Some of the finest experiences in life are created with exquisite cuisine, beautiful views and excellent company. Rivershore Bar & Grill, attached to the Best Western Plus Rivershore Hotel where I-205 intersects with 99E, is the perfect venue to indulge in mouth-watering steak and seafood dishes with a Pacific Northwest flair, outdoor seating, a lively bar area, and lovely views of the Willamette River from every seat.
Owned by Emanuel “Manny” Hilario, Rivershore Bar & Grill has mouth-watering offerings for all three meals of the day, plus any others you’d like to fit in! Breakfast is served from 7:00 to 11:00 am during the week and until 2:00 pm on the weekends, serving up all your favorite classics like country fried steak, biscuits smothered in homemade gravy, eggs benedict, french toast and a large selection of omelets with fresh toppings. For lunch, guests can indulge in loaded burgers, colorful salads, and a drool-worthy list of handhelds, including the crab and shrimp melt, the prime rib and Swiss dip, or their newest creation, a fried chicken sandwich loaded
starting at $24. Other entrees, perfect for dinner, include broiled salmon, BBQ baby back ribs and chicken parmesan. For dessert, guests can delight in rich, creamy cheesecake made fresh by local company Beloved Cheesecakes. The bar at the Rivershore is a cozy hangout and the perfect place to kick back and have fun! Happy Hour is daily from 2:00 to 6:00 pm. and all day on Sundays, so it’s an ideal spot to relax and watch a football game on the big-screen TVs. The venue hosts weekly events, so come in on Saturdays at 9:00 pm for karaoke or enjoy local live bands every Friday at 8:00 pm. Beer is on tap and bottled, wine selection includes local wines from the Willamette Valley, and specialty cocktails featuring top-shelf spirits are poured to perfection. “Our winter specials are the Marionberry Margarita and the Pomegranate Punch, made with pomegranate liqueur and vanilla vodka — it’s fantastic,” says Manager Hayley O’Brien.
The venue is home to the Willamette Room, one of the area’s most popular banquet dining destinations. The space can be
reserved for up to 100 guests and offers a fine selection of buffets and catered bar service to make your gathering extra special. Guests can relax outside on the heated deck or the patio when the weather is nice.
Join Rivershore Bar & Grill for Valentine’s Day and celebrate your sweetheart with elevated steak and seafood entrees. Reservations are highly recommended. The beautiful property overlooking the river, the fantastic food, and the friendly, professional service are the cornerstones of this charming destination right in Oregon City.
Rivershore Bar & Grill is located at 1900 Clackamette Drive, Oregon City, Oregon, 97045. To book a reservation, give them a call at 503-655-5155 , or visit their website at rivershorerestaurant.com to book through OpenTable.
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.”
DID YOU KNOW? In 2016, when Lindsay Funston was an editor at Delish.com, she created a recipe video for a Tuscanstyle chicken dish that attracted millions of views. When she was done cooking, Ms. Funston’s video producer took a bite and declared, “I’d marry you for that chicken!” She named the dish “Marry Me Chicken.”
Marry Me Chicken
Say YES to Valentine’s dinner at home
Ingredients
8 ounces spaghetti
3 tablespoons olive oil
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
* Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
1 large shallot, halved and thinly sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
1 jar (6.3-ounce) sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped
1 chicken bouillon cube (0.4-ounce)
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan
1/4 cup thinly sliced fresh basil
Directions
In large pot, cook pasta in boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside. Heat 2 tablespoons oil in large skillet over medium-high heat. Sprinkle chicken with salt and black pepper on both sides. Cook undisturbed until golden brown, about 5 minutes. Cook other side until golden brown, about 5 minutes more. Remove to plate. Add 1 tablespoon oil and shallot to same skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until just tender. Add garlic, stirring continuously, until fragrant. Add broth and scrape up browned bits. Add tomatoes, bouillon, cream, oregano, red pepper flakes and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Stir until cube dissolves. Bring sauce to a boil; reduce to a simmer over medium-low heat. Nestle chicken in sauce. Cook until sauce thickens slightly and chicken registers at 165ºF, 5 to 10 minutes. Stir in Parmesan and basil. Serve with spaghetti.
