Create Big Change with Small Giving find out more inside!
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SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNERS
Hilary Berg Sean Carver
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GRAPHIC DESIGNERS
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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
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Wilsonville Lifestyle Magazine
JANUARY 2024
Grand Opening in Wilsonville
Local, family-owned company comes to Wilsonville
The Wilsonville store also offers a large number of mattress brands to choose from, including Tempur-pedic, Stearns and Foster, Sealy and Bedgear.
“We are so excited to join the Wilsonville community. For more than 77 years our family-owned company has been fortunate to serve customers across Oregon and SW Washington, helping them find the best home appliances and choose the kitchen design features that fit their needs,” said Jeff Jarvis, President, Standard TV & Appliance. “We welcome everyone to join us as we celebrate our grand opening and look forward to meeting our newest neighbors this fall!”
By Standard TV & Appliance
Standard TV & Appliance, the largest independently owned and operated retail appliance company in Oregon, announced today the company’s new store located in Wilsonville is open for business. With the addition of 30,000 square feet of completely remodeled retail space, the 77-year-old company has kitchen and appliance showrooms in Beaverton, Bend, Portland and Wilsonville.
The newest Standard TV & Appliance storefront is located at 29735 Town Center Loop, Wilsonville – right off the I-5 freeway. It features the largest display of luxury kitchens and appliances in Oregon and Southwest Washington, including Wolf, Sub Zero, Gaggenau, Bosch, Monogram, Dacor, Jenn Air, and KitchenAid. The new store also features 17 custom live kitchens showcasing modern design ideas and finishes, cabinet door styles, lighting, plumbing and surface options, tile selections, and more. A wide selection of outdoor cooking appliances includes grills and pizza ovens from Lynx, Wolf, Blaze, DCS, Hestan, Evo and Fontana Forni.
Standard TV & Appliance is known for its fast delivery and expert installation team, as well as its friendly sales staff and factory-trained service professionals. It is now the largest appliance retailer serving the Wilsonville area and the new store offers more than 60 brands and 18,000 appliances, mattresses, and electronics items in stock and available for shoppers to purchase online.
Standard TV & Appliance was founded by Clement and Hazel Gander in 1947 as Standard Refrigeration, with the SE Woodstock storefront opening five years later. Since then, the company has grown to over 220 employees with 4 locations: two in Portland, and one each in Beaverton & Bend. The growth has only continued, always aiming to bring the best and most innovative products to their customers at the lowest price. Standard is Oregon’s largest independent appliance, electronics, and mattress retailer and has been committed to their customers’ total satisfaction for over 77 years.
For more information including store locations, visit standardtvandappliance.com.
Winter Driving
Stay safe with knowledge and precautions
By National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
It starts with the basics: Slow down and be aware of others on the road. It’s harder to control or stop your vehicle on a slick or snow-covered surface. On the road, increase your following distance enough, so you’ll have plenty of time to stop for vehicles ahead of you. Don’t crowd a snow plow or travel beside the truck. Snow plows travel slowly, make wide turns, stop often, overlap lanes and exit the road frequently. If you find yourself behind a snow plow, stay far enough behind it and use caution if you pass the plow.
What to Do in an Emergency
If you are stopped or stalled in wintry weather, stay focused on yourself, your passengers, your car and your surroundings.
• Stay with your car and don’t overexert yourself.
• Let your car be seen. Put bright markers on the antenna or windows and keep the interior dome light on.
• Be mindful of carbon monoxide poisoning. Make sure your exhaust pipe is clear of any snow and run your car sporadically — just long enough to stay warm. Don’t run your car for long periods with the windows up or in an enclosed space.
About Your Tires
As the outside temperature drops, so does tire inflation pressure. Make sure each tire is filled to the vehicle manufacturer’s recommended inflation pressure, which is in your owner’s manual and on a label located on the driver’s side door frame. Do not inflate your tires to the pressure listed on the tire itself. Additional tips include:
• Inspect your tires at least once a month and before road trips.
• It’s best to check the tires when they’re cold, meaning that they have not been driven on for at least three hours.
• Check the tread and sidewalls for any cuts, punctures, bulges, scrapes, cracks, or bumps. The tread should be at least 2/32 of an inch or greater on all tires.
Coats and Car Seats
It’s important to know that heavy coats can interfere with the proper harness fit on a child in a car seat. When your child will be secured in a car seat, pick thin, warm layers, and place blankets or coats around your child after the harness is snug and secure for extra warmth, and, of course, installed and used properly, as in appropriate for age and weight.
Cold Drains Batteries
When the temperature drops, so does battery power. In cold weather, gasoline and diesel engines take more battery power to start, and electric and hybrid-electric vehicles’ driving range can be reduced. Have a mechanic check your battery, charging system, belts and for any other needed repairs or replacements.
Safety Technologies
Familiarize yourself with the safety technologies on your vehicle. Anti-lock brake systems prevent your wheels from locking up during braking. If you have anti-lock brakes, apply firm, continuous pressure to the brake pedal. If you don’t have anti-lock brakes, you may need to pump your brakes if you feel your wheels starting to lock up.
Lights and Wipers
Check all lights on your vehicle, including headlights, brake lights, turn signals, emergency flashers and interior lights. Regarding windshield wipers, make sure your vehicle’s reservoir is full of high-quality winter fluid with de-icer before bad weather hits. Make sure defrosters and all wipers work.
Stock Your Vehicle
Carry items in your vehicle to handle common winter drivingrelated tasks, and supplies in case of an emergency, including:
• a snow shovel, broom, ice scraper and abrasive material (sand, kitty litter), in case your vehicle gets stuck in the snow.
• jumper cables, flashlight and warning devices (flares, etc.).
• blankets and first aid kit.
• cell phone, charger, water, food and necessary medicine.
Gas Up or Plug In
Keep your gas tank close to full whenever possible. Similarly, in the case for electric and hybrid-electric vehicles, it is important keep your battery charged and to also minimize the drain on the battery. In general, batteries with liquid electrolyte have reduced energy storage and delivery capabilities at lower temperatures, which is why most all vehicle batteries use battery power for self-heating in low temperatures. The battery drain due to heating can be minimized by keeping your electric vehicle as warm as possible during freezing temperatures. A common way to do this is plugging your vehicle in at night during the winter — keeping the battery in its optimal temperature ranges.
Plan Your Route
Check your weather and traffic reports before heading out. If your roads are bad, consider postponing non-essential travel until the roads are cleared. Familiarize yourself with directions and maps before you go — even if you use a GPS — and let others know your route and anticipated arrival time.
New Year, New Skin
Transform with Skinbetter Science
By Christine Lewy, Divine Complexions
As we step into a new year, it’s the perfect time to refresh, rejuvenate, and refocus — starting with your skin. At Divine Complexions, we believe that the best resolutions start with self-care, and there’s no better way to treat yourself than with awardwinning skincare from Skinbetter Science.
Skinbetter Science has taken the beauty world by storm, earning numerous accolades, including the prestigious Allure Best of Beauty Award. What makes this brand stand out is its commitment to medicalgrade, scientifically advanced formulations that deliver results you can see and feel. Unlike many over-the-counter skincare lines, Skinbetter Science products are rigorously tested and backed by cutting-edge research. What truly sets Skinbetter apart is its simplicity and effectiveness. The products are designed to work synergistically, meaning you don’t need a dozen steps to achieve radiant, healthy skin. Their revolutionary AlphaRet® technology, for example, combines the power of retinoids and alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) in one gentle, yet highly effective, formula to reduce fine lines, improve texture, and boost skin clarity — all without irritation.
If hydration is your goal this winter, their awardwinning Trio Luxe is a must-try. It deeply nourishes the skin barrier, leaving it soft, supple and radiant,
even in the harshest conditions. And for those seeking an all-in-one solution, the Even Tone Correcting Serum tackles discoloration (reds, browns, and yellow) and uneven skin tone for a flawless complexion.
At Divine Complexions, we understand that every person’s skin is unique. That’s why we offer personalized skincare consultations to help you find the perfect Skinbetter regimen tailored to your needs. Whether you’re looking to reduce signs of aging, combat dryness, or achieve a brighter, more even complexion, our experts are here to guide you every step of the way.
Make 2025 the year you prioritize your skin and experience the transformative results of Skinbetter Science. Call or stop by Divine Complexions to start your journey to healthier, glowing skin today. Your skin deserves the best — and so do you.
Christine Lewy is the owner of Divine Complexions, a licensed esthetician, an award-winning West Coast Glo Skin Beauty makeup artist and an NW YUMI Lashes Educator.
H N Y ar! H N w Year! M A K E W A Y F O R 2 0 2 5 ! 5 0 3 - 5 6 7 - 1 6 3 3
Create Big Change with Small Giving
The Fowler Family Fund supports PNW charities
Pacific Northwest nonprofit sector, and information about volunteerism and leaving an impactful legacy with charitable organizations that align with one’s own personal giving aspirations.
Founded in 2007, Wilsonville-based The Fowler Family Fund began as a small giving platform primarily focused on providing volunteer and in-kind support to Pacific Northwest charitable organizations whose missions focused upon animal welfare and financial literacy.
Since then, The Fund continues to evolve to include small grants to 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations focused upon The Fund’s five pillars of giving: sustainability, self-sufficiency, LGBTQIA+ community, animal welfare and financial literacy.
A proud member of Philanthropy Northwest and Nonprofit Association of Oregon, The Fowler Family Fund will launch its new website, www. TheFowlerFamilyFund. com, in March. The site will contain details about The Fund, resources that will help visitors connect to the
Resources Every Donor Should Know
As The Fowler Family Fund continues to align their charitable support with nonprofit organizations and their leaders interested in demonstrating a transformative impact through their organization mission, The Fund routinely refers to a variety of resources to help them stay abreast of the changes impacting the giving sector. In fact, the best starting point for those interested in learning more is to conduct a search of the IRS website www.irs.gov/charities-and-nonprofits, which provides a comprehensive overview surrounding the nonprofit sector. One can also search their national database to confirm the 501(c) (3) status of any nonprofit entity, access IRS Determination Letters, and ensure an organization is acting as a public charity and not a private foundation. A recent explanation of public vs. private charitable entities can also be found at www.501c3.org/privatefoundation-vs-public-charity.
Start Small & Find Your Fit
Charitable giving is more than just writing a check aka “checkbook philanthropy.” It is an opportunity to connect with a nonprofit that is aligned with one’s values, interests and capacity for sharing time and resources. There are four easy ways to think of charitable support:
1. Volunteerism; 2. In-Kind Support; 3. Financial Giving; and 4. Leaving a Legacy.
Frances Changed My Life
Dress for Success Oregon
The Trevor Project
Volunteerism
According to Independent Sector, volunteers to charitable organizations in the United States uphold the foundation of civil society. They help their neighbors, serve their communities, and provide their expertise. No matter what kind of volunteer work they do, volunteers contribute in invaluable ways. The estimated value of one volunteer hour was a whopping $33.49 in 2023 representing a 5.3% increase from 2022. To learn more about the value of volunteer time, visit: bit.ly/4fJv6qo.
In-Kind Support
Financial Giving
Financial giving, whether program specific or for general operating, helps fund a wide range of needs, including staff salaries, equipment, program development, emergency situations and general operating costs. Donors who are uncertain about how they wish their financial support to be designated, should work directly with the nonprofit development staff to identify a good fit for their funding gift.
Leaving a Legacy
In-kind support is essential and offers support through the following: Goods — Items like raffle donations, clothing, office equipment, computers and building materials.
Services — Professional services include legal help, accounting, IT work or marketing services.
Expertise — Advice from a professional such as tax advice, event planning or corporate communications.
Legacy charitable giving is also known as planned giving and serves as a way for donors to leave money to a charity after they pass away. Legacy gifts are often larger than typical donations and may come from a variety of resources including wills, retirement accounts, life insurance policies and other assets. They are routinely coordinated with a professional advisor, an attorney, and the nonprofit organization.
Practice Gratitude
For The Fowler Family Fund, 2025 will present continuing opportunities to support the important work of animal welfare organization Portland Dachshund & Friends Rescue, help individuals obtain self-sufficiency through Blanchet House & Farm, and financial literacy through Dress for Success Oregon. It also serves as an exciting time for The Fund to identify new opportunities supporting Frances Changed My Life and Elijah’s Heart House in their dedicated support to children and families during some of life’s most challenging moments. No matter how one chooses to practice gratitude, a recent article published by AARP Magazine — bit.ly/3AXxxGK — captured 10 reasons for giving back in your community. We encourage everyone to join The Fowler Family Fund in discovering how small giving can lead to big change that grows into a lasting charitable legacy.
Flap Jack and Elle encourage adoption through Portland Dachshund & Friends Rescue
Blanchet House & Farm
The Shape of a Voice
Portland clay artist gives form to “big ideas”
By Patti Jo Brooks, Active Media
Human creativity and imagination take on many forms.
The artist, employing skill and technique, imparts beauty, ideas or emotions through their work.
Clay as an artistic medium is one such form. Artist Paige Wright, proprietor of The Wright Clay Studio, creates and teaches fine art large-scale ceramic sculpture. Offering classes and workshops reminiscent of her childhood experiences is a way for Paige to give back. It’s important to her to engage children and encourage their creativity, to help them find their voice, explore big ideas and discover their dreams.
“I’ve been doing art since the age of 10,” says Paige. “I was very visual, so my mom started me on an afterschool art program here in Portland.” The art classes were based
more on creative expression and finding your voice rather than technique and skill building. Ceramics provided Paige an avenue to experience accountability and integrity through making something “where people took me seriously,” she expresses, explaining that she was not as articulate in other areas. Although school was not her “forte,” she went on to achieve a master’s in ceramics and subsequently offers student apprenticeships at her studio for college credit. Paige held her first professional art show in high school. Her early works were primarily self-portraits, though she sculpted family members, particularly her sister, as well. Fascinated by “the human mechanism,” she contemplated her sister’s features. “What kind of shapes did she get that we share or that are different than mine?” As the artist, she observes, “We all are made up of the same ‘stuff,’ and what’s really cool is how that ‘stuff’ can take on these unique shapes.” Her thoughts turn to how we adorn and decorate the body through tattooing, piercing, wearing certain jewelry or crowns, a veil, a yarmulke. She reflects on “adding those to my pieces and kind of playing around with them.” Paige sees this as a way to view the elements in a different way and at the same time to celebrate them. Gordon, Paige’s dog, “a good studio mate,” she says, often hangs out while she teaches. Weekly classes are offered year round as follows: KIDS (ages 7–14): Sunday, 2–4 p.m. and Thursday, 4:30–6:30 p.m.; and ADULTS (ages 15+): Monday, 10:30 a.m.–1 p.m. and 4:30–7 p.m., and Wednesday, 4:30–7 p.m. Weekend workshops are six hours in total: Saturday, 4:30–7:30 p.m. and Sunday, 10 a.m.–1 p.m. (check the website for details and online registration.)
Late last year at Chefas Projects (a forum for contemporary cutting-edge art), Paige Wright displayed her newest collection of ceramics. Upcoming events, class updates and monthly reminders can be obtained from the website or by signing up for the newsletter.
The Wright Clay Studio is located at 3522 N.E. Liberty Street in Portland. Visits are by appointment only; please email paige@thewrightclay.com to schedule. For additional information and to view Paige’s portfolio, visit www.thewrightclay.com.
DID YOU KNOW? ONION SOUPS HAVE BEEN POPULAR AT LEAST SINCE ROMAN TIMES. WIDELY GROWN AND GENERALLY INEXPENSIVE, ONIONS WERE REGARDED AS A POOR PERSON’S FOOD, AND THE UPPER CLASSES AVOIDED IT.
French Onion Soup
Rich, savory dish a peasant classic
Ingredients
6 tablespoons olive oil
3 pounds yellow onions, halved and thinly sliced
¾ teaspoon sea salt
1½ tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1½ tablespoons tamari (or soy sauce)
1½ tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
3 garlic cloves, minced
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 cup dry white wine
6 cups vegetable broth freshly ground black pepper
Topping: Baguette slices | Gruyère, aged cheddar or Parmesan | fresh thyme | red pepper flakes (optional)
Directions
Heat oil in large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onions, salt and several grinds of pepper; toss to combine. Reduce heat to low and cook for about 40 minutes, stirring every few minutes, or until onions are very soft. Increase heat to medium and cook 15 to 20 more minutes, stirring often, until golden brown. Stir in vinegar, tamari, thyme and garlic. Sprinkle flour on onions, stir; cook 2 minutes. Stir in wine; cook 2 minutes, or until evaporated. Add broth and simmer over medium heat for 30 minutes. Preheat oven to 450°F. On parchment-lined baking sheet, bake baguette slices topped with cheese until toasted and cheese melts, 8 to 10 minutes. Ladle soup into ramekins or bowls; top with toasted baguette slice, thyme and pinch of red pepper flakes, if desired.
“Yeah, you’re gonna die. It’s a matter of time. That ain’t the question. Question’s whether they’re gonna have a good story to tell about you when you’re gone.”
The movie follows Zak (Zack Gottsagen), a young man with Down syndrome who lives in a North Carolina nursing home and dreams of becoming a professional wrestler. With the help of his roommate, he escapes and starts hitchhiking to a wrestling school run by his idol, the Salt Water Redneck (Thomas Haden Church). On his way Zak meets Tyler (Shia LaBeouf), a fisherman on the run. They quickly become friends, with Tyler mentoring Zak as they travel south by foot and boat, eluding authorities. Eleanor (Dakota Johnson), Zak’s caregiver, eventually finds and joins them on their journey when Tyler convinces her to help Zak achieve his dreams. A heartwarming, thoughtful, and funny adventure with a Mark Twain kind of vibe, this is an inspiring watch for New Year’s. Rated R for mature language and light violence.
“Hope is a good thing, maybe the best of things, and no good thing ever dies.”
A powerful story of hope and perseverance, this movie follows Andy Dufresne (Tim Robbins), a bank vice president in 1940s Maine, who is convicted of the murder of his wife and her lover. Sentenced to serve two consecutive life sentences in Shawshank Prison, Andy pleads his innocence to deaf ears. Resolved to serve his time, he makes friends, helps the guards with their finances, and eventually becomes involved in money laundering. I won’t spoil the ending in case you haven’t seen this 30-year-old classic, but it’s a good one, and a true example of utter resilience against impossible odds. It’s a great movie of hope, friendship, and the strength of the human spirit. Also starring Morgan Freeman, Clancy Brown, and Bob Gunton. Rated R for mature themes, language, and violence.
“Out with the old, in with the new.”
A long-awaited sequel to the 2015 Pixar movie, Inside Out 2 follows Riley as she navigates the emotional challenges of growing up. The movie explores her transition into puberty, introducing new emotions like Anxiety, Envy, Ennui, and Embarrassment, alongside the original characters like Joy, Sadness, Anger, Fear, and Disgust. Riley’s internal emotional world has to adapt to these new and changing feelings as she faces the challenges of growing up, including school and relationships. What’s cool is how this movie portrays the emotional and psychological challenges of adolescence with humor and sensitivity. Universally praised for its relatability on growth, change, and the importance of emotional understanding, it blends humor with life lessons about managing emotions, making it entertaining and meaningful for all ages. Starring Amy Poehler, Phyllis Smith, Lewis Black, Maya Hawke, Ayo Edebiri, Tony Hale, and Liza Lapira. Rated PG for its emotional complexity, mild humor, and mild peril.
New Year’s celebrations date back over 4,000 years to ancient Mesopotamia, where the Babylonians marked the new year not in January but in late March, during the spring equinox. Their festival, called Akitu, lasted 11 days and included rituals to crown a new king or reaffirm loyalty to the current ruler. The switch to January 1 came in 46 BCE when Julius Caesar introduced the Julian calendar. He chose January in honor of Janus, the Roman god of beginnings, transitions, and doorways, symbolizing looking forward to the future and reflecting on the past.
Stream these movies where available, or rent from your local movie store, library or rental kiosk.
Peanut Butter Falcon (2019) The Shawshank Redemption (1994) Inside Out 2 (2024)
Midnight Magic
New
Year’s Eve around the globe
By Robert Matsumura, Active Media
Bubbly. Counting down the final seconds. A kiss at midnight. “Auld Lang Syne.” While our New Year’s Eve traditions are familiar to our own culture, the ways in which people around the world bring in the new year are diverse. From eating grapes in Spain to smashing plates in Denmark, these customs provide a fascinating glimpse into the various ways we celebrate transitioning from one year to the next. No matter your locale, the desire to usher in a fresh start is universal, and every culture has its own unique way of doing so. Here is a look at some of the most intriguing New Year’s Eve traditions from around the globe.
SPAIN A Grape for Good Luck
In Spain, counting down to the new year is accompanied by the unique tradition of eating 12 grapes at the stroke of midnight. Each grape represents a month of the year, and eating the whole dozen is believed to bring good luck in the coming year. The key is to eat all 12 grapes prior to the clock’s final chiming. Each grape symbolizes a different hope for the coming year.
DENMARK Smashing Plates for Prosperity
The arrival of the new year in Denmark is greeted with the sound of crashing plates! Instead of clinking glasses, Danes believe smashing old plates or dishes on the doorstep of friends and neighbors brings good fortune, removing any bad spirits. The more broken shards the better the luck for the coming year. This quirky custom reflects the Danish concept of hygge, which centers around fostering warmth, coziness and togetherness, despite a few broken dishes along the way.
JAPAN Welcoming the New Year with a Clean Slate
In Japan, New Year’s Eve centers around deep spiritual reflection, with many traditions rooted in a sense of cleansing and renewal. The Japanese practice of osoji involves cleaning the house thoroughly before New Year’s Day to wash away bad luck and usher in a fresh start. At midnight, many families visit shrines for prayer and meditation, reflecting on the year past and wishing for a prosperous year ahead. In the days leading up to New Year’s Eve, people also send nengajo (New Year’s cards) to friends and family,
acknowledging the connections that bind them. These traditions encompass a serene, peaceful celebration filled with reverence for both past and future.
ITALY Wearing Red for Love and Luck
In Italy, New Year’s Eve is a passionate affair — quite literally. The wearing of red underwear on Dec. 31 is believed to bring good luck and love in the upcoming year. The color red is traditionally associated with happiness, passion and vitality in Italian culture, so why not bring in the year with a little extra luck? At midnight, lentils are often served symbolizing wealth, abundance and the hope that money will be as plentiful as the small legumes. If you’re in Italy, don’t forget to give a kiss at
midnight; just as red symbolizes luck, kissing loved ones is thought to ensure strong relationships in the year to come.
SCOTLAND A Night of Hogmanay and “First Footing”
In Scotland, New Year’s Eve is called Hogmanay and is celebrated with much vigor and merriment. One of the most cherished traditions is “first footing,” which involves the first person to enter a household after midnight bringing gifts to ensure good luck for the coming year. The night is filled with dancing, toasts, fireworks and, of course, the singing of “Auld Lang Syne” to bid the old year goodbye.
BRAZIL The Sea, White Clothes and New Year’s Wishes
In Brazil, New Year’s Eve celebrations are particularly vibrant, with people gathering at the beach to celebrate the réveillon. Garbed in white clothes, symbolizing peace and renewal to Brazilians, it’s believed that wearing this attire will attract good luck in the new year. Brazilians also pay homage to the Afro-Brazilian goddess of the sea, Yemanjá, by offering flowers and floating them in the ocean at midnight in small boats. The ritual is believed to ensure blessings for the coming year. Fireworks illuminate the sky and the festive energy on the beaches is expressed through music, dancing and revelry throughout the night.
ECUADOR Burning the “Año Viejo”
In Ecuador, the New Year’s Eve celebration takes on a fiery twist. At midnight, many Ecuadorians burn effigies called años viejos (old years), composed of old clothing, straw and fireworks. The effigies symbolize the prior year, with all things negative associated with it. Burning the año viejo is a way of letting go of the past and embracing the new year. It’s a dramatic yet cathartic ritual
in which families, friends and even neighborhoods often compete to create the most impressive año viejo effigy transforming the streets into a spectacle of fire and celebration.
MEXICO Grapes and Fire
As in Spain, many people in Mexico eat 12 grapes at midnight — one for each chime of the clock. Each grape symbolizes a wish for each month of the coming year. In addition, many Mexicans drop a gold ring into their glass of bubbly wine. As long as they do not remove the ring before hugging everyone in the room and finishing their glass, they will supposedly enjoy good luck in love and financial affairs.
In With the New Out With the Old
As the clock strikes midnight and the world rings in the new year, it’s fascinating to see how cultures across the globe celebrate this annual milestone. Whether through fire, food, music or the sharing of wishes, New Year’s Eve symbolizes a collective desire for hope, renewal and good fortune. These traditions create a connection to the past while generating excitement for the future — a reminder that no matter where we are in the world, the arrival of a new year is a time to come together, reflect and celebrate.
Consider embracing one of these fascinating global traditions — or create one of your own. After all, making new memories is what it’s all about!
YEAR, NEW HOME
ACROSS
3. Cannabidiol is often consumed in this type of gelatin-based fruit snack.
5. After World War II, this organization introduced the first nationwide civilian blood program that continues to this day. (2 words)
6. Eating a home-cooked meal with friends and family once a week helps foster a sense of ________ or another word for a flight you are running to catch.
10. Now employee-owned Oregon grain company named for the founder’s first name, a primary color and the type of operation it takes to process grain. (3 words)
11. Type of corn in Mexico’s iconic soup featuring beef tripe.
13. Pastime uses a hook and yarn to make scarves, blankets, doilies and more.
14. Most expensive type of beef raised in Kobe, Japan.
15. Classic kind of soup often paired with grilled cheese.
Officially January
Puzzling over the month’s serious and not-so-serious observances
DOWN
1. Ancient Greek poet credited with the idea of mentoring in his poem “Odyssey.”
2. Available in almost every language, Braille helps the blind community access written communication with specifically arranged _________.
4. American brand so synonymous with slow cookers that most people call these small appliances by its iconic name.
7. Using money today to increase the value of an asset over time.
8. “_________ when wet” describes the No. 1 cause of harm related to mishaps in the bathtub or shower.
9. Named for its color, this most common type of tea in the U.S. is a favorite for serving with ice and lemon.
12. World’s largest cut black diamond, “The Enigma,” weighs a whopping 555.55 __________.
TUALATIN VALLEY FIRE & RESCUE
RECRUITING VOLUNTEERS
Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue is grateful for its dedicated cadre of volunteers, who aid us in our mission to create safer communities.
Have you ever considered donating your time and serving your community as a TVF&R volunteer? This exciting opportunity gives you a chance to be part of your fire district. Applications will be accepted from January 9 to February 10.
TVF&R offers two ways you can choose to serve your community:
Incident Support Volunteer: These volunteers bring rehabilitation units to major incidents to provide TVF&R firefighters with assistance with breathing apparatus, medical monitoring, and other support in a non-firefighter capacity. They also participate in public education, attend parades, support community events and activities, and attend monthly drills.
Want to learn more? TVF&R is holding two Volunteer Interest Open Houses from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.:
Auxiliary Volunteer: These volunteers play an active role in TVF&R’s public education program and attend community events. Auxiliary volunteers are non-emergency response volunteers. They may work once or twice a week or even a few times each year, depending on their area of interest and commitment. They can also help restore and maintain TVF&R’s fleet of antique apparatuses.
All volunteers must be 18 years old or older, have a high school diploma or an equivalent certificate, pass a criminal background check and drug screening, have a valid Oregon driver’s license, and live within TVF&R’s service area. All volunteers must obtain CPR and automated external defibrillator training within six months, and incident support volunteers must also obtain emergency medical responder certification within 12 months.
Saturday, January 18, at TVF&R’s South Operating Center garage located behind Station 56, 8445 SW Elligsen Road in Wilsonville.
Saturday, January 25, at Station 72, 11646 NW Skyline Boulevard in unincorporated Washington County off Cornelius Pass Road.
For more information about TVF&R’s volunteer program or to apply to become a volunteer, visit www.tvfr.com/471/ Volunteer-Program.
