Bliss in Every Bite
Bistro Cubano’s Irresistible Papitas!
Papitas, also known as “papas rellenos,” are a beloved appetizer throughout Latin America, with each country adding its unique twist to the dish. At Bistro Cubano, we bring you a Cuban-inspired version that stands out with its bold flavors and satisfying texture. These delectable potato balls are a testament to the rich culinary traditions of Cuba, showcasing the island’s ability to transform simple ingredients into unforgettable dishes.
The history of papitas is as rich and diverse as the cultures that enjoy them. Originally hailing from Peru, where potatoes were first cultivated thousands of years ago, the dish has traveled across Latin America, evolving with each new region. In Cuba, the addition of chorizo and ground beef to the filling adds a hearty and flavorful twist that reflects the island’s love for robust foods. This Cuban version has become a favorite at Bistro Cubano, where it is prepared with a perfect blend of tradition and innovation.
One bite of our papitas reveals a world of flavor that is both comforting and exciting. The seasoned mashed potatoes, infused with the smoky essence of roasted poblano peppers, provide a creamy backdrop for the filling. Inside, the savory blend of ground beef and chorizo offers a rich, meaty taste that is perfectly seasoned and irresistibly juicy. The combination of these elements creates a taste experience that is truly greater than the sum of its parts.
The texture of our papitas is just as delightful as their flavor. The crispy, golden-brown exterior gives way to a soft, creamy interior that melts in your mouth. This contrast is achieved through a careful process of battering and deep-frying, which locks in the flavors and creates a satisfying crunch with every bite. It’s no wonder that these fried meaty mashed potato balls are a favorite among our patrons – they offer the perfect balance of textures and flavors.
Enjoying papitas at Bistro Cubano is an experience best shared with friends and complemented by a refreshing drink. We recommend pairing these delicious bites with a fresh fruit mojito – the citrusy and minty notes provide a refreshing counterpoint to the rich, savory flavors of the papitas. Alternatively, an ice-cold beer on tap is an excellent choice, offering a crisp, clean finish that enhances the overall enjoyment of the dish. Whether you’re a longtime fan of papas rellenas or trying them for the first time, our Cuban-inspired papitas are sure to delight your taste buds and leave you craving more.
Bloomin’ Good Time
Dahlias Festival a colorful community event
By Kelly Romo, Contributing Writer
Photos by Jen Blair Photography & Natalie Kristeen Photography
Immerse yourself in a vibrant celebration of nature at the annual Dahlia Festival hosted by Swan Island Dahlias. This beloved event, featuring over 370 dahlia varieties, transforms the picturesque fields of Canby into a kaleidoscope of color and beauty. From early August to late September, visitors are invited to explore the stunning display gardens, stroll through expansive flower fields and partake in a variety of engaging activities on Wednesdays through Sundays. With free admission, live music, local food carts and a unique gift shop, the Dahlia Festival offers an unforgettable experience for all ages. Join them for a day of floral enchantment, community and joy as you celebrate the splendor of dahlias in full bloom.
favorites. Look out for creatively named varieties like “Petal Faster,” “Tutu Much” and the striking red and yellow “Incrediball.” Each name adds a touch of whimsy to the vibrant blooms.
This year’s festival introduces the new, expanded gift shop offering a range of local goods, from soaps and lotions to cookbooks and canned foods. Visitors can also find unique items for pets, gardening and babies, making it a specialty shop worth exploring.
Hybridizing new dahlia varieties is a meticulous process at Swan Island. They let bees handle initial cross-pollination and then select seed pods from preferred varieties. Each year, they cultivate 15,000 seedlings, gradually narrowing them down to five to fifteen new varieties introduced annually. The selection criteria include long stems, flower quality, and uniqueness. With over 370 dahlia varieties on display, festivalgoers can discover new
Local vendors and musicians play a significant role in the festival, creating a lively atmosphere with carefully selected bands that ensure a diverse and enjoyable experience for weekend visitors. Be sure to check the event calendar for the lineup of bands and food carts during your visit. Plan to spend a few hours exploring to make the most of your time at the festival. Start with the display garden to see all the varieties in one place, then stroll through the fields. The koi pond is a favorite among children and those who appreciate the beauty of these fish. Enjoy the food carts, live music and gift shop. On weekends, bring a blanket for a relaxing afternoon surrounded by fields of flowers while you listen to music and savor delicious food and drinks.
Swan Island Dahlias ensures accessibility for all visitors, with ample ADA parking, accessible restrooms and pathways. The level grounds and free entry make it an inviting destination for people of all ages and income levels.
Swan Island Dahlias is more than a farm; it’s where passion, history and community converge in a spectacular celebration of nature’s beauty.
Visit the festival at 995 NW 22nd Ave. in Canby from August through September, open Wednesdays through Sundays from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.. Check the event calendar at www.dahlias.com to see the lineup of bands and vendors so you can join them and immerse yourself in the vibrant world of dahlias!
Keeping Clackamas County Safe
Sheriff touts public safety track record
won the primary election with over 50%, with three opponents, and in this one, I had two opponents and received over 53%.
“It tells me that voters like the job that I’m doing and have faith in the work that we’re all doing to keep our community safe.”
Under Brandenburg’s watch, Clackamas County has become the safest county in the metro area according to data kept by the Oregon State Police Uniform Crime Reporting Unit. Of the five most populated counties in Oregon, Clackamas County had the lowest number of reported offenses per 1,000 persons in 2022 and 2023 (through November).
By Ty Walker, Contributing Writer
Clackamas County Sheriff Angela Brandenburg is still glowing with gratitude almost two months after voters re-elected her as the county’s chief law enforcement officer in the May 21 primary. She received more than 53% of the vote in a three-way race to win a second term.
Getting such an overwhelming show of support from the community that Brandenburg has called home since she was a teenager is a huge vote of confidence for the sheriff. Her strong commitment to maintaining public safety and accountability resonated with voters.
Four years ago, voters made her the first woman sheriff in Clackamas County history when they elected her in the 2020 primary. Brandenburg is the 33rd sheriff to serve the county since William Livingston Holmes first took up the post in 1845.
“I’m so humbled by the support of our community in this election,” she said. “Not only this election, but in 2020 when I
Using population data from the census and reported crimes on the OSP website, the sheriff calculated the Clackamas County crime rate to be 42.2 crimes per 1,000 people in 2023, compared to 54.5 per 1,000 people in 2022.
“I’m looking forward to continuing doing some really good work,” the sheriff said. “Every day is a job interview as a sheriff. As an elected official, I work for the people in this county. They’re my bosses.”
Brandenburg grew up in Paso Robles, California, before moving as a teenager to rural Clackamas County. She lives with her husband and teenage son and daughter on acreage south of Molalla. All told, she’s been a county resident for 37 years.
After graduating from high school, she didn’t really know what she wanted to do, so she joined the US Oregon Army National Guard, serving nine years before being honorably discharged as a sergeant.
She went back to school under the GI Bill and took courses in criminal justice at Clackamas Community College. During that time, she happened to go on a ride-along with a patrol deputy.
“I went on a ride-along and I was hooked,” Brandenburg said. “It showed me a way I could serve my community in some capacity to keep my community safe and have an enjoyable job profession, knowing I could make a difference.”
That moment she was hooked. She wanted to pursue a career in law enforcement. It didn’t take long before Brandenburg began as a reserve deputy and was hired in 1992 as a full-time deputy at the age of 21. Now, after more than 33 years with the Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office, she has reached the pinnacle of her career, as sheriff.
“I’ve devoted my life to Clackamas County and the sheriff’s office for 33 years,” Brandenburg said. “I’ve devoted my life to our community. To me, there’s no greater honor than serving as sheriff.
“I get to keep our community safe. I grew up here in Clackamas County and the sheriff’s office. I’ve raised my family here. Devoted my life here. It’s such an honor to serve as sheriff.”
Brandenburg said being a sheriff, in essence, is like being the CEO of a corporation. She oversees a total staff of 590 employees and administers a $148 million budget.
Staying on top of staffing is a challenge. It takes a long time to shape a patrol deputy — about 18 months to recruit, hire and go through the training process.
The sheriff has sworn in 30 new deputies so far this year. Last year, she swore in 52 deputies (67 total staff). The office is “getting down in our positions but we’re over 90% hired up,” she said.
With another 33 patrol deputies currently in training, more patrol cars are expected on the streets in the next few months, especially in rural areas like Mount Hood.
“With the public safety levy, we added patrol positions,” the sheriff said. People are
going to see, here in the next three, four to six months, these deputies that are going to be out patrolling the roadways, up on the mountain especially. In our rural areas, we will see increased deputy presence.”
The public safety levy has received attention recently as the sheriff and the county commission were embroiled in a county budget dispute she characterized as a fundamental disagreement over how tax dollars are spent.
The sheriff has challenged the county’s use of diverting Public Safety Levy dollars to pay for the funding shortfall created by the $313 million county courthouse building project. She argues that the levy money was approved by voters to keep them safer, not finance a courthouse.
Running the Clackamas County Jail is one of the sheriff’s main jobs. Built in 1959, the aging jail is suffering from rising costs and a rising budget. It hasn’t
met bed needs since 2000 and needs to be replaced, Brandenburg said.
She said her No. 1 priority is to keep Clackamas County safe, proudly reiterating its track record as the safest county in the metro area for the past two years. Besides Clackamas County, the metro area includes Multnomah, Washington, Lane and Marion counties.
The sheriff’s office also takes accountability seriously. In order to ensure the public’s trust, Brandenburg said all complaints are investigated thoroughly.
“We’re holding ourselves accountable,” she said. “We hold ourselves to a high standard of professionalism.”
The sheriff’s website, clackamas.us/sheriff, has expanded to offer more information. More crime data are available, with calls for service broken down by neighborhoods and uploaded to the site monthly.
Set Sail to Success
Daily visualization, positive emotion and a creative wellness journey
By Robert Kirby, Wellness Coach
Kirby’s Wellness Coaching is unique, owing to its ease of use – in acquiring success, focusing on character strengths and utilizing them to create a foundation for goaldirected behavior. A few examples of those inherent strengths are creativity (originality, ingenuity), curiosity (interest, novelty-seeking, openness to experience), perspective,
persistence, and vitality (energy, enthusiasm, vigor, zest).
Goal-directed behavior is about utilizing daily action steps one can visualize. Wayne Gretzky’s words serve as an excellent example:
“We taped a lot of famous pictures on the locker room door, all holding the Stanley Cup. We’d stand back and look at them and envision ourselves doing it. I really believe if you visualize yourself doing something, you can make that image come true… I must have rehearsed it ten thousand times. And when it came true it was like an electric jolt went up my spine.”
Kirby’s Wellness coaching takes you on a creative journey to the “land of permanent vitality,” using the permanent vitality principles: positive emotion, enjoyment,
relationships, meaning, autonomy, novelty, engagement, needs, time & vitality.
Kirby’s Wellness Coaching utilizes a metaphoric wellness wheel to get you to a metaphorical “ocean,” and you, being the captain of your own ship, sail to that “land of permanent vitality,” focusing on four key areas: attention, thoughts, motivation, and action.
A central theme of Kirby’s Wellness Coaching can be viewed from the following quote:
“While intent is the seed of manifestation, action is the water that nourishes the seed. Your actions must reflect your goals in order to achieve true success.”
–Steve Maraboliou
Let me help you realize your potential.
Wellness Coaching
Going For Gold
Where history meets innovation
By Robert Matsumura, Contributing Writer
As global attention focuses on Paris for the 2024 Summer Olympics, excitement is mounting. 100 years have transpired since the City of Light last hosted the Games in 1924, and Paris is gearing up for an Olympic Games like no other. For the thousands who travel to the games in person and the millions viewing remotely around the world, the Paris Olympics promises to be a fusion of historic charm and cutting-edge innovation, melding the city’s storied past with its vibrant, contemporary culture.
A Glimpse of Olympics Past
Paris is famous for grandeur and spectacle on a massive scale and the 2024 Olympics will be no different. Paris first hosted the Games in 1900 where this pioneering event saw the first introduction of female athletes to the Olympics. The city next hosted the games in 1924 at the height of the roaring twenties, managing to capture the vibrant spirit of the fabulous age. As the 2024 Olympics loom closer, nostalgia mingles with anticipation as the city’s rich Olympic legacy will be showcased for a global audience.
Iconic Venues Reimagined
The Paris Olympics of 2024 promises to be a breathtaking display of architectural marvels. The dazzling spectacle of the opening ceremony along the River Seine will transform the heart of Paris into an open-air stage like no other. This is the first time the opening ceremony will be held outside of a traditional stadium setting and promises to be an unforgettable sight with the Parade of Nations to be conducted as a boat parade down the Seine, and the official Olympic protocol being held in a mini-stadium constructed on the historic Place du Trocadero. The parade route will span approximately 3.7 miles and feature views of famous Paris landmarks. Organizers of the event have billed it as the “People’s Olympics,” and the “most spectacular and accessible opening ceremony in Olympic history.” The event is free to attend, and is estimated to draw as many as 600,000 spectators.
The storied Stade de France will be the primary venue for the athletics, while the equestrian events will unfold against the historic backdrop of the Château de Versailles, imparting a regal splendor to the competitions. Both the new Paris Aquatics Centre and La Chapelle Arena were designed with sustainability at the forefront, emphasizing the city’s passion and commitment to a greener future.
Ludovic Marin/AFP
The beach volleyball tournaments on the Eiffel Tower’s Champ de Mars will be a remarkable sight to behold where athletic prowess will be on display against the backdrop of one of the world’s most iconic landmarks.
Sustainability and Innovation at the Forefront
Sustainability is a major theme for the 2024 Paris Olympics. The city has established ambitious goals to reduce the environmental impact of the games, targeting a 55% reduction in carbon emissions versus previous events. By incorporating the use of existing infrastructure, along with innovations such as renewable energy-powered venues and zero-emission transportation options, Paris’ dedication to a sustainable future will be on full display.
Augmenting the environmental initiatives and sustainability factor will be next-level technology for both the athletes and the visitors. Everyone involved will benefit from a dedicated app providing real-time updates on events, transport and amenities. For those who aren’t able to attend the games in person, state-of-the-art broadcasting will bring the Games to life no matter where you are in the world, with multiple viewing options.
American Athletes in the Spotlight
For Americans, the 2024 Olympics are sure to be both memorable and thrilling. With Team USA expected to showcase a mix of seasoned champions and up-and-coming stars, America should have a strong showing at the games. Athletes like Simone Biles in gymnastics, Katie Ledecky and Katie Grimes in swimming, and Noah Lyles and Sha’Carri Richardson in track and field are all frontrunners in their respective events. Team USA Men’s Basketball will once again be a favorite with the
likes of Kevin Durant, Steph Curry, Joel Embiid and LeBron James leading the charge. On the women’s side, Kelsey Plum, Brittney Griner and Diana Taurasi headline an American squad that is sure to be a force. In golf, Scottie Scheffler, currently ranked No.1 in the World Golf Rankings, is certain to be a strong performer. Coco Gauff in women’s tennis is also primed for a commanding performance. The Paris games will also see skateboarding, surfing, break dancing and sport climbing make their Olympic debuts as new fields of competition.
The Spirit of Paris
Beyond the competitions, the Paris Olympics will provide an opportunity to explore and experience the city’s unparalleled charm. From its world-renowned cuisine to its iconic sites and museums, Paris provides the ultimate backdrop for the Games. Visitors can stroll along the Seine, indulge in croissants at gourmet patisseries and immerse themselves in the culture that has made Paris a premier global destination for well over a century.
An Event Like No Other…
The 2024 Paris Olympics will be more than just a sporting event; it will be a celebration of history, innovation, and global humanity. As athletes from around the world come together to compete, the Games will once again inspire and serve as a unifying force in a world rife with challenges on many fronts. Whether you’ll be in the stands at the games or watching on TV and cheering from home, the Paris Olympics promise to be an unforgettable experience, a testament to the beauty and resilience of sports and the city that hosts it. This summer, Paris is set to host one of the most amazing Olympic games in history — whatever you do, don’t miss this epic event!
Exterior Experts
Eco-friendly, high-quality cleaning for residential and commercial properties!
By Dennis McNabb, Contributing Writer
Photos by Brittany Jungenberg
Keeping the exterior of your house and/or business clean is crucial for several reasons. First and foremost, a clean home is an attractive home. This is your castle, and no king or queen wants to attract the ire of their neighbors by having the only shabby residence on the block. In particular, if you are planning to sell, a clean, well-maintained home is far more appealing to potential buyers, and can even affect your resale value.
Second, when dirt, mold, moss and mildew are left unchecked, they can lead to costly repairs. Preventative maintenance is key to minimizing damage and will save you a lot of money and heartache in the long run. Last but not least, keeping harmful molds and pollutants at bay will contribute to a healthier living environment. If you haven’t done your due diligence, now is the time to begin, and Willamette Outdoor Wash should be your first call.
Outdoor Wash was born. Since then, Gary and his son Noah, who works alongside him, have established themselves as the premier exterior power and soft wash cleaners in the area.
You may ask yourself how they did that in only four short years: the answer is simple and sensible. They placed customer service as their top priority, period. With their goal of exceeding your expectations, not just meeting them, they take great pride in ensuring that every customer is 100% satisfied with every job. That, combined with years of experience and expertise and the fact that they employ only the most advanced techniques, equipment and supplies in the business, means that Willamette Outdoor Wash will get the job done right the first time, every time.
Still skeptical? Perhaps you have a friend who tried to powerwash his own home and did some damage to his roofing tiles or his siding. Or maybe he used chemicals that killed his flower
Owner and founder of Willamette Outdoor Wash, Gary Babcock, has been in the industry on-and-off for almost 40 years. During that time, he worked for others but always with the goal of establishing his own business. In 2020, when that opportunity presented itself, he took the plunge and Willamette
beds. There are some significant risks inherent in doing this kind of work yourself and it is not recommended. Willamette Outdoor Wash is a professional company that uses highlyspecialized techniques specific to each job to ensure no damage occurs. Their cleaning products, which are not available direct to consumers, are eco-friendly, biodegradable, and safe for both your property and the environment. Developed to treat very specific surfaces under very specific circumstances, these products attack and remove the
invasive organics, leaving that surface with a revitalized sparkling finish.
Willamette Outdoor Wash is a locally-owned and -operated business. Gary, Noah, and their team of highlytrained professionals want nothing more than to earn your business by wowing you with their amazing results. Power washing, soft washing, window washing (they use a four-stage filtration system with deionized water that leaves zero residue!), roof washing (including moss removal) – they do it all. Their mission: to clean your property without cleaning out your wallet!
Maintaining the exterior of our homes and businesses is an imperative. Support a local business while you’re at it and call Willamette Outdoor Wash today for a free onsite quote. 503-410-1378, or check out their website: willametteoutdoorwash.com.
-Michael H.
-Meyer R.
IVisual Differences
Artist reveals Black female experience
By Dennis McNabb, Contributing Writer
n today’s fast-paced, ever-evolving world, facing a constant barrage of new and compelling information means that we are always grappling to find clarity of purpose. It is increasingly rare, it seems, to meet people who are calm, composed and resolute in their goals. That is why it is such a breath of fresh air to speak with someone like artist, curator and arts organizer Tammy Jo Wilson. Not only is she committed to said objectives, but it’s for the betterment of all — for making this world a better place.
In her own words, reflected on her website, Tammy Jo seeks to, “Share through [her] work an expanded view of the black female experience in the 21st century. [She is] speaking to those among us that are looking for a broader understanding of commonalities rather than differences.
Historically rooted in the feminist art movement [her] work attempts to further the unraveling of antiquated thinking around women in art and society. [She offers] a visual entrance to an expanded view of the black female experience and the raw realities faced by marginalized people.”
She goes on further to state, “[Her] practice has evolved over the past 10 years to be less about individual identity and more reflective of cultural and societal understanding of inflicted identity versus projected identity. And she is “Interested in pushing back against what the Western art canon tells us black women’s art is, or should be.” It’s this last point I find most compelling in her work. Because as clear as her vocalized intent is, her absolutely gorgeous but sometimes eerie and abstract pieces are far less transparent. The true depth and meaning behind each piece is cleverly disguised under layers of symbolism and only revealed after careful study.
Tammy Jo is the quintessential artist. Encouraged at a young age, she began studying under professionals in high school. With both a Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree in
Fine Arts, she has traveled every state in the country expanding and honing her craft. She has taught multiple classes and for the past 14 years held the position of Visual Arts and Technology Program Manager at Lewis & Clark College. In 2017, she co-founded Art in Oregon (AiO), a statewide visual-arts-focused nonprofit working to build bridges between artists and communities. In 2022, she also became Director of the Bush House Museum Exhibits & Programming.
Never one to rest on her laurels, Tammy Jo was recently involved in the Black Artists of Oregon Exhibition, a historic retrospective she was incredibly proud to be a part of. In May, she exhibited some of her most recent work (including her first full-sized wall mural) at the Souvenir Gallery in Portland. She is also working on an upcoming documentary short film series with MOsley WOtta called “Sketch and Release,” which will highlight black artists in Oregon.
For more information, follow her on Instagram: tammyjowilsonart or check out www.tammyjowilson.com.
Ievents.cff.org/.golfforacure
n the month of August, Mattress World Northwest has teamed up with the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation for the 3rd Annual CFF Golf for a Cure tournament which will be held at Stone Creek Golf Club in Oregon City, Aug. 19 at 7 a.m. Enjoy an exciting day of golf, contests, beverages and snacks throughout the morning followed by lunch, an auction and the golf award ceremony.
Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is a rare genetic disorder that affects mostly the lungs, but also the pancreas, liver, kidneys and intestines. There is no known cure. The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation is committed to finding that cure, as well as providing those suffering from
the disorder the ability to live long, fulfilling lives through the funding of research, drug development and partnering with the CF community to advance high-quality specialized care. MWNW is gladly donating to this incredible cause, as well as raising awareness and taking donations on the foundation’s behalf. Please help raise funds by donating online or visiting one of their 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.
Landscape Legacy
Quality service for 17 years and counting
By Dennis McNabb, Contributing Writer
by Andrew Sambuceto
Back in 2004, Andres Picon Pacheco moved his family to Oregon from Colombia and immediately began working in the landscape industry. Inherently hardworking and ambitious, Andres soon struck out on his own and in 2007, Andres Landscape was born. From those humble beginnings, the company flourished and now employs over 40 people! Their family-friendly approach, superior customer service and creativew artistry have earned them the deserved reputation as a market leader in both residential and commercial landscaping.
In 2019, Andres’s son, Andres Picon Ardila, graduated college with a degree in finance and joined the team as the new Business Manager. I had the pleasure of speaking with Andres Picon Ardila and it was immediately clear why Andres Landscape is such a success. Not only was he incredibly knowledgeable and professional regarding the business, but his passion was evident. There is a real sense of pride in what they’ve accomplished: a multi-generational family legacy.
Andres Landscape offers a variety of services that run the gamut from smaller maintenance jobs all the way up to complete landscape renovations, redesigns and construction projects. Maintenance work includes turf management, lawn care, fertilization programs, weed control, pruning and trimming, and backflow testing to ensure you are county compliant. Design and construction work is comprehensive: hardscapes, patio covers, retaining walls, water features, outdoor kitchens, fireplaces, fire pits, and spas. They also do bark and compost, playground chip blowing services, sod and irrigation installations, irrigation repairs, outdoor lighting, outdoor audio, plant design, preventative and/or restorative drainage systems, and one-time storm cleanups. Everything is done with an eco-friendly and artistic flair, custom-designed to match each individual client’s specific needs.
Creating a design for your outdoor space, whether it’s in a residential setting (front or back yard), or a commercial setting (business park), takes a keen eye. It requires extensive knowledge and experience to ensure you are making the most of the space while simultaneously avoiding many of the common pitfalls these types of projects can generate. How
Photos
often have you noticed trees improperly installed on properties where the surface-level roots buckle the sidewalks and make for hazardous walking conditions? Or improperly installed drainage systems which leave hightraffic areas flooded during the rains?
Andres Landscape has a highly-
trained and experienced design team to assist you in making all the right choices, serving up form and function to provide superior curb appeal while still maintaining proper functionality. Their installers are the best in the business and can transform your property from banal to beautiful in the snap of a finger. They seek to provide unparalleled service by treating every client like family, and since they have individual experts leading each department of the organization, you always get the best advice from the most qualified personnel.
Call for a free estimate 503-632-3366, or check out their website to view some amazing photos of their work and customer testimonials: andreslandscapellc.com. Also, contact Andres Exteriors (sister organization) for siding, roofing, etc.!
Peach Paradise
Family-owned orchard offers U-pick peaches and nectarines
Since then, Tanner and his family have added multiple new varieties, and the orchard continues to be a yearly destination for the community and beyond.
Growing peaches in Oregon requires special treatment tailored to counteract the overly moist climate. “These are different varieties than you’d find in California,” Tanner explains. “They’re grafted on rootstocks that do better in the wet soil, and we don’t use any irrigation.”
PTwelve types of peaches and two kinds of nectarines, all ripening at different rates, can make the yearly harvest challenging, but TK Orchards has it down to a science. They’re
By Angie Helvey, Contributing Writer
icking fresh peaches on a warm day is the quintessential summer outing. Peach orchards are less common in Oregon because the trees are temperamental and don’t like much moisture, but with suitable varieties and special care, peaches and nectarines can flourish in the Willamette Valley. TK Orchards is the perfect place to find the sweetest local peaches and nectarines that are excellent for eating fresh, making pies, canning for the winter and more! The property, which features 20 acres of peaches nestled among 35 acres of hazelnuts, was initially owned by Gooding Orchards. Canby native and fourthgeneration farmer Tanner Koenig began farming peaches while still finishing high school and started full-time after graduating from college in 2008.
typically open for business from roughly the 10th of July through the 20th of August, and visitors can visit their Facebook page to find out which varieties are available on any given day.
According to Tanner, all the peaches are excellent for eating fresh, but the most sought-after are the Dixie Gems, Canadian Harmonies and Veterans. “Each variety is a little different and has a following of people that swear it’s the best,” he says. “The Candor, for example, has a fantastic flavor and holds texture well, so it’s perfect for making salsa.” The peaches at TK are mostly freestone with a few semifreestone breeds, so the flesh is easily separated from the pit.
They also grow a couple of clingstone varieties that boast fabulous flavors.
The usual hours during the season are 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Upon entering the property, visitors check in at the stand and grab a box. As they drive, signage directs them to the areas currently ripe for picking, and parking is available amidst the shaded hazelnut orchards.
Though the Koenigs and their team offer pre-picked boxes filled with peaches harvested fresh each morning, strolling through the picturesque orchards to select your own fruit is a delightful experience you don’t want to miss! “You’ll want to choose peaches that are big, beautiful, and have a little give to the flesh when you feel it,” Tanner says. “We encourage people to try a sample and see what variety they like best.” The trees are short, so even kids can pick peaches from the ground without a ladder. U-pick is priced at $2 per pound. Boxes are weighed, and cash or check payment is accepted upon departure. Pre-picked boxes are sold at $30 or 4 for $100.
Tanner’s family has been farming hazelnuts for over 50 years, and TK Orchards sits among acres of hazelnuts that the Koenigs harvest, wash, and dry
for processors and local farmers. Tanner and his wife Nicole have four children aged 5, 6, 10 and 11, who sell hazelnuts to the public in the fall. The kids love doing what they can to help out on the farm. “Sometimes they’ll come with me to pick peaches in the morning or help water the baby trees,” Tanner says.
TK Orchards enjoys their visitors and many return every season. “There are people who come just once a year, and there are some that come every three days during open season to get some of each variety,” Tanner explains. “We love getting to know our customers. I’ve been at this for 20 years; many have been coming since before my time.”
TK Orchards is located at 23513 Boones Ferry Rd. NE, Aurora, OR. Please give them a call at 503-678-5227 or visit their Facebook page for more information and updates on ripening status.
The People’s Champion
Cowboy and rodeo rider lived a wild ride
By the time Fletcher reached working age, the most promising source of employment for him was as a cowboy. Fletcher quickly became a skilled horseman and began competing in rodeo competitions at age 15, developing a unique style. Besides his race, Fletcher stood out for his bright orange chaps and loose, nonchalant saddle demeanor. In exhibition rides and events, Fletcher developed routines which dazzled audiences, including riding buffalo and riding back-to-back with other cowboys on the same horse.
By Oregon Black Pioneers
George Fletcher is one of Oregon’s most celebrated cowboys and rodeo performers. Fletcher was born in St. Marys, Kansas in 1890. Before he was 10, the Fletcher family left Kansas for Pendleton, Oregon. Pendleton was the heart of Oregon’s cattle industry, and many men in Pendleton made a living driving, herding, branding and breeding cattle.
At the turn of the century, Oregon’s Black population numbered just 1105 people, 70% of whom lived in Portland. Umatilla County, home to Pendleton, had just 30 Black residents in 1900. Rural Black Oregonians were very isolated, and lacked the support of strong community organizations. Most worked in subservient positions or in dangerous, low skilled occupations.
As a child, George Fletcher attended the missionary school on the Umatilla Indian Reservation alongside Native American children. Fletcher quit school after the fifth grade but continued to spend much of his childhood on the reservation. Over the years, he learned some of the local languages and first witnessed the horsemanship of Native riders.
At age 19, George Fletcher won his first rodeo prize — $15 — for coming in third place in the saddle-bronc competition at the Eastern Oregon District Fair. A year later, in 1910, Fletcher placed fourth in saddle bronc at the first ever Pendleton Round-Up, becoming that event’s first Black competitor.
The 1911 Pendleton Round-Up Bronc Riding Championship was a legendary matchup. Fletcher, a Nez Perce rider named Jackson Sundown, and a White rancher named John Spain were finalists to win the top prize: a $350 silver saddle. Fletcher’s run won the support of the crowd but the judges awarded Spain first prize and named Fletcher runner up. The audience booed the decision. Pendleton’s East Oregonian newspaper wrote of the incident the next day, saying, “Had the spectators been the final judge, George Fletcher would undoubtedly have won the handsome first prize saddle, for he was plainly
In protest, Umatilla County Sheriff Til Taylor, honorary director of that year’s Round Up, cut Fletcher’s cowboy hat into pieces and sold them to the crowd as souvenirs. Sheriff Taylor collected nearly $700 from the stunt, which he then gave to Fletcher. Local press dubbed Fletcher “The People’s Champion” of 1911.
George Fletcher’s rodeo career lasted only a few more years. While serving abroad during World War I, he sustained a leg injury that ended his competitive bronc riding days. He continued to work as a cowboy the rest of his life, however, and in 1972 he was named an inaugural member of the Pendleton Round-Up and Happy Canyon Hall of Fame. Fletcher died the next year and was buried in Pendleton.
is
Baked Zucchini Fries
Crisp yet tender and healthy, too
Ingredients
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
* Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
4 zucchini, quartered lengthwise
½ cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs, beaten
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley leaves
Directions
Preheat oven to 425°F. Coat a cooling rack with nonstick spray and place on a baking sheet; set aside. In a large bowl, combine panko, Parmesan and Italian seasoning; season with salt and pepper, to taste. Set aside. Working in batches, dredge zucchini in flour, dip into eggs, then dredge in Panko mixture, pressing to coat. Place zucchini onto prepared baking sheet. Place into oven and bake for 20–22 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp. Serve immediately, garnished with parsley, if desired, and alongside warm spaghetti sauce or ranch dressing for dipping.
Fresh
from the Garden
When picking zucchini, check if the fruit is firm. Softness indicates it is probably rotting and should be discarded. For picking zucchini, use a sharp knife, pruners or scissors to cut the stem one or two inches from the fruit.
Worry-Free Guarantee
Your Portland & Happy Valley painting company!
That’s why in the realm of residential and commercial painting, Muir Painting Inc., with their worry-free guarantee, outshines the competition.
Dan Muir, owner and founder of the company, has been painting in a professional capacity since 1973. It began as a small part-time interest to help pay his way through college. He soon realized, however, that he not only enjoyed the work, he also had a knack for doing it better than most. Putting his degree to use, he became a student of the industry, researching various techniques and tricks, learning best practices for running a business, and soon word spread. As happens with contractors who actually make good on their promises, his reputation grew. It began to precede him, and what started as a modest means to an end over the years has grown and flourished and become his life’s work. 50 years on and he’s going stronger now than ever before!
By Dennis McNabb, Contributing Writer
Worry-free” is a term that grabs attention. Why? Because when we fork out our hard-earned money to hire a contractor for a job, we expect it to be done to a certain standard. We don’t want to have to “worry” about it being done properly, with the appropriate techniques and tools to ensure that it’s a quality job that lasts. That’s the whole reason we pay the “experts” in the first place! Unfortunately, all too often, it doesn’t work out that way.
Contractors are notorious for being poor communicators, for being less than reliable, and even, in some extreme cases, for cutting corners.
I had the pleasure of speaking with Dan for the purpose of this article, and what I found most interesting was the fact that, although he does have so much experience and expertise, the key factor he contributes to his success is something he’s always had: his integrity. Somehow, he always just intuitively understands that prioritizing client communication is key to best business practices: and to show up on time, every time, prepared and ready to go. His vast experience doesn’t hurt, of course. Nor does his commitment to using only the most high-quality materials, or his organizational skills. But when Dan Muir states that he will provide you with a worry-free experience, it’s not just a statement of intent. It’s a promise! And you don’t have to take my word for it. Dan has hundreds of five star reviews on Angi, not to mention winning an Angi Super Service Award in 2023.
Dan is a native Oregonian. This is his home, and he loves the communities he works in. He takes great pride in the opportunities he’s been given to help beautify some of the local residential and commercial structures. Both the Happy Valley City Hall and the Happy Valley
Library were both done by Muir Painting. As an active and supportive member of the community, Muir has donated a great deal of free labor over the years for local churches, pastors and single mothers in need. On giving back, according to Dan, “The least expensive job lasts the longest.”
When a job is done right, it doesn’t have to be done again for a long time. So while you may pay a little more initially, it will be far less expensive in the long run. Dan’s advice? Don’t be fooled by low-ball offers. He also
warns against paying money in advance. If a company can’t afford to purchase your supplies before doing the job, then they are not a company to be trusted with your money.
Whether residential or commercial, interior or exterior, any and all of your painting needs can be met by one company: Muir Painting, Inc.. Call today 503-761-5151 or check out their website: muirpainting.com.
Hello, I’m Dan Muir, owner of MUIR PAINTING.
Since 1973, I’ve painted thousands of Northwest Homes. One thing that I have learned is that there is no way you can shortcut the process of a quality painting job. It takes the proper equipment, quality materials and qualified, trained professionals to get the job done right. Your home is probably the biggest investment you will ever make, and I hope you will consider MUIR PAINTING to protect and preserve its beauty for the years ahead.
Happy Valley Home
Happy Valley City Hall
Happy Valley Library
The Super Mario Bros. Movie (2023)
“Peaches, Peaches, Peaches, Peaches, Peaches .” What to say about this iconic blockbuster from last year? It’s gorgeously animated, incredibly scored and a smash hit for a new generation of kids, as well as adults old enough to remember playing the Nintendo Entertainment System in the ’80s and ’90s (myself included). While not in the traditional Nintendo continuity (if I can nerd out for a second), this watches like fan fiction and an ode to Nintendo and Super Mario Bros. nostalgia, piled high with references from various video games and consoles throughout the years. Contrary to the games, Mario is not rescuing Princess Peach, but rather she is training him to become strong enough to rescue his brother Luigi and save the world from Bowser. It’s funny, fast-paced and great for the whole family. Starring Chris Pratt (Mario), Charlie Day (Luigi), Anya Taylor-Joy (Peach), Jack Black (Bowser) and many more. Rated PG for action and mild violence.
Camp Nowhere (1994)
“Dad! Just because I'm smart doesn't mean I can't act stupid.” Camp Nowhere is a forgotten cult classic and perfect summer movie. Summer is approaching and a large ragtag group of middle school kids are being forced into summer camps — computer camp, fat camp, boot camp, you name it — and the kids want no part of it. Through serendipity, “Mud” (Jonathan Jackson) runs into ex-actor Dennis Van Welker (Christopher Lloyd) and convinces him to dupe all the parents into believing the kids have agreed to go to their respective summer camps, while in reality they pocket the money, rent an empty camp, and proceed to blow their cash on toys and junk food. In the vein of “Big” with Tom Hanks, it’s a kid’s free-for-all movie and cautionary tale of excess, with many lessons learned in responsibility, personal safety and maturity. It’s funny, silly and deeply nostalgic. Rated PG, this feels like a light PG-13 due to language and mature “teen” content.
The Goonies (1985)
“Goonies never say die!” As I recently visited the Goonies House and the old County Jail in Astoria, this movie is even more soaked in nostalgia and local lore for me. Filmed in Astoria and nearby beaches, this is a classic ’80s “kids have an adventure” movie with Scooby Doo/Hardy Boys vibes — there’s a jailbreak, criminals, skeletons, secret passages, and pirate maps and treasure. When they find a treasure map in their father’s old museum antiquities, Mikey (Sean Astin) and his friends decide this could save his house from foreclosure, with older brother “Brand” (Josh Brolin) and his friends in tow on their crazy adventure. It’s a cheesy, funny, coming-of-age romp perfect for a summer afternoon. Also starring Corey Feldman and Ke Huy Quan. While rated PG, this feels like a strong PG-13 with language, violence and mature “teenage” content.
Stream these movies where available, or rent from your local movie store, library or rental kiosk.
Fractional CO2 laser resurfacing is most effective to treat fine lines, wrinkles, sun damage, loose or sagging skin as well as scars.
Opus plasma fractional skin resurfacing to minimize wrinkles and reverse damage caused by sun and the natural aging process.
Agnes RF is a non-surgical radio frequency device that treats eye bags, tightens and removes fat from the neck and jawline area. Cystic acne is treated by removing the sebaceous gland.
The Secret RF Micro-needling System is a powerful new technology that is ideal for facial rejuvenation, improving scars, cellulite, and plumping and tightening loose skin.
First device cleared by FDA to treat acne scar hyperpigmentation,stretch marks, neck wrinkles and surgical scars.
Remove sun spots. age spots, acne spots and any other skin pigmentation.
Light therapy that removes the appearance of sagging skin, wrinkles and fine lines.
Improves fine lines, skin tone & increases collagen production.
Provides safe treatment for men and woman for all skin types for unwanted facial hair and full body hair
Including BTL vanquish me, BTL Cellutone & Accent Ultra V-shape
