Discover Canby 2023

Eat, Shop, Explore & More

PLAY Canby

Head Outside!

Wait Park

350 N. Grant Street, Canby Home of the gazebo and playground equipment. In the center of downtown Canby, this park is the site of many community events.

Arneson Garden

249 S. Sequoia Parkway, Canby Specimen azalea garden with walking path and old-growth trees. Located behind Fred Meyer.

Community

(River) Park

1348 S. Berg Parkway, Canby

Situated by the Molalla River (near Safeway, South of Canby Square), this is a very natural park with picnic facilities, barbecue pits, playground equipment, a ballfield and a fishing pond. Angling restricted to youth age 17 and under or holders of one of the Disabled Anglers permits. Contact ODFW at 800-7206339 for questions regarding angling or permits. Fishing regulations can be viewed at dfw.state.or.us

Legacy Park

1200 S.E. 13th Avenue Canby

Adjacent to Ackerman School grounds. Restrooms, graduated playgrounds, soccer fields and a picnic shelter with a walking path and meditation garden.

Locust Street Park

305 S. Locust Street, Canby Features two playground areas, restrooms, a basketball court, benches and picnic area.

Maple Street Park

1300 N. Maple Street, Canby Home of ballfields, pickleball courts, tennis courts, covered picnic table area and playgrounds.

Northwood Park

1300 N. Elm Street, Canby

The cool park has dinosaur-themed play structures, a climbing rock, walking path, picnic shelter and green grassy area for play.

Skate Park

1171 N.W. 3rd Avenue, Canby

Large outdoor facility for skateboards, in-line skates and bikes. Canby’s skate park became a reality through the efforts of local skaters led by Michaela Carrol, whose enthusiasm and persistence convinced the City to build it.

FOR MORE PARKS, VISIT CANBYOREGON.GOV/PARKSITES

ADDRESS

1109 S.W. First Avenue D Canby, OR 97013

HOURS

Mon.–Thurs., 2 to 8 p.m.

Fri.–Sat., noon to 10 p.m. Sun., 1 to 7 p.m.

PHONE

503-263-2337

WEB fobtaproom.com

Friends of Beer

There’s always time for a beer with good friends. FOB Taproom owner Steve Puga knows this well and has built his Canby tavern around this fraternizing fermented philosophy.

FOB, short for Friends of Beer, also includes family. Steve runs the taproom with his son, Mitch. Both are intimately involved with all aspects of the taproom, including carefully curating the ever-changing menu of 35 craft beers, ciders, wines and other beverages on draft.

“As a family-owned, independent business, we take a lot of pride in getting our hands on as many Northwest beers as we can,” Steve says. “At the same time, there are plenty of other beers out there that are delicious, and we always support the small companies and self-distributors.”

Steve continues, “If there’s delicious beer out there, I don’t care what country it’s from or what part of the U.S., we’re going to take a look at it. But we think very carefully about the different things we bring in, and what would be fun for the community to try.”

Besides an excellent selection of beers, Steve also focuses on the laid-back yet professional, inviting atmosphere. He even

added a patio with glowing heaters attracting lager lovers and Pilsner people alike.

FOB’s German pub ambiance is influenced from Steve’s former career in supply chain logistics that took him overseas. “One thing that was really obvious about all the places I went to in Germany was that they were very open to all,” he recalls. “That’s what we’ve tried to create here. You can walk in whether you’re wearing a suit or a T-shirt and jeans. It’s very inviting to everybody.”

Just as enticing, especially for German bier fans, is FOBTOBERFEST, this year at Wait Park in Canby, Sept. 16–17. FOB’s take on Oktoberfest promises lagers, polka, pretzels and more. Find details online (see left) and social media.

So, for the “friendliest” tavern in town, hop over to FOB Taproom. Prost! 

Take Me Out

Shoeless Joe Jackson, the famous turnof-the-century outfielder, earned his unusual nickname for running the bases in socks after a new pair of cleats rubbed blisters on his feet. Some may think he was “shoeless” his whole career, but the undressing took place once, during a single inning.

Friday, Saturday and Sunday, until it runs out. Ken says the brisket continues to be their most popular item; the peanut butter burger, their most unusual.

From his previous small chain of restaurants, he acquired 5,000 pieces of sports nostalgia. At Backstop, you can view about 400. One of Ken’s favorite pieces is a vintage poster of Chicago Cubs player Ron Santo. It was after a game of blackjack at a Las Vegas casino that Ken realized the third baseman was at his same table.

Ken Arrigotti, co-owner of Backstop Bar & Grill, shares a similar story. His executive chef, Narcisso Ponce, wore a baseball cap some 20-plus years ago into the kitchen of Arrigotti’s previous restaurant, Lil’ Cooperstown — the Arrigottis owned four more restaurants of the same name. The hat read “Mafia.” He wore it only a few weeks. For better or worse, like Shoeless Joe, the name stuck.

It says a lot about a business for staff to be dedicated for more than two decades.

Joining “Mafia” is a handful of staffers who’ve worked for the Arrigottis for many years. Ken’s wife and fellow owner, Lori Arrigotti, does the hiring. A former corporate trainer for Shari’s, she knows what it takes. Keeping the employees happy is what the couple accomplishes together. Ken is always at the restaurant. The high-quality food comes from the adept kitchen staff, of course.

Backstop’s extensive menu comprises burgers, salads, sandwiches, fish and chips, salmon, steak and much more. If you order barbecue, don’t hesitate. It’s authentic and smoked everyday; the prime rib is smoked

Given the Backstop name and the Arrigottis’ former restaurant chain, you’d think baseball was Ken’s favorite sport. You’d be incorrect. His favorite remains college football, followed by pro football and then college baseball. Hockey is his favorite sport to watch in person. If you dine in the bar and a big game is on, he’ll turn up the volume so patrons can better follow along.

Next to the sports bar is the dining room of the family-friendly, family-run restaurant — two of their children also work there. It’s an impressive place known for excellent food, fantastic service and a fun atmosphere. What’s not to cheer about? 

ADDRESS

117 N.W. Second Avenue

Canby, OR 97013

HOURS

Mon., 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Tues.–Fri., 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Sat., 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sun., 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

PHONE

503-266-3100

WEB

waywardsandwiches.com

Wayward We Go

Like Pee-Wee Herman in his adventurous, eponymous movie, Wayward Sandwiches represents a rebel of sorts. Minus the awkward laugh and red bow-tie, owner Matt Morrissey embodies a restaurateur renegade, leaving the bright lights and status of media-darling Portland to create a culinary destination in Canby.

Wayward’s kitchen sources ingredients from its proverbial backyard, including cheese from Canby creamery TMK; gluten-free bread from White Rabbit in Aurora; beef and pork from Revel Meat Co.; turkey from Champoeg Farm — the list goes on. Almost everything is made in house.

Although the ingredients are local, the menu spans the globe. For those craving Greek, there’s the Lambdemic with braised lamb, tzatziki sauce, harissa, cukes, radish and pickled onions served on flatbread. In a New York state of mind? Try the Reuben with house-cured pastrami, emmentaler, house-fermented sauerkraut and “Lost Sauce” — Wayward’s take on Thousand Island — slathered on rye bread. So many sandwiches, all served with fresh-cut fries and pickles.

Add mouthwatering salads, specials and a scrumptious weekend brunch, and you now understand the cult following that continues to build here in Canby.

The in-house wine shop also draws customers. Curated by Morrissey, the shelves highlight some 300 facings representing local vintners and producers from afar. If you like what you see, swirl and sip, you can join one of Wayward’s wine clubs, boasting monthly releases in innovative and userfriendly formats.

If whiskey, not wine, wets your whistle, wander about a block and a half to Siren Song, Morrissey’s bar (see next story). At Siren Song, you can even have your Wayward meal delivered while you sip your cocktail.

Because Matt is not busy enough running two businesses, he’s added a third. Wayward Smashburgers, aka “The Smash Wagon,” can be found during lunch on weekdays in the Canby Builders Supply parking lot. Choose from crispy smashburgers, hot dogs, grilled cheese, salads and more. On the weekends, the food truck is for delicious hire. 

Calling to Canby

Walk into Matt Morrissey’s sister business, Siren Song, and you know you’ve arrived somewhere special in the middle of downtown Canby.

The decor invites you under the sea, but first look up. The squid lights, handmade by Ben Byrnes of Aurora Mills Architectural Salvage, are crafted from old jet engines and other random parts. There’s also the cool siren mural painted by Bend studio VIVI Designs. Even the tables and bar top were intentionally designed, using oak from local mills.

Attention to detail continues with keen cocktails, comprehensive whiskey flights — from cellars around the world — plus beer and wine. Then, there is the food menu that’s much more fine-dining tapas than tavern.

Under the “Sharing Plates” heading, search for the jalapeño poppers. These are not your run-of-the-mill munchies. Stuffed with smoked pork and cream cheese, the peppers are roasted in a blistering 500°F convection oven and then topped with cilantro-lime gremolata and pepitas. Too spicy? Try the wings marinated in fish sauce and achiote; the chicken bursts with flavor before being smothered in housemade

orange marmalade and finished with sesame seeds and cilantro. Too unique? Siren Song has housemade flatbread pizza on its daily happy hour menu from 3 to 6 p.m. Ever heard of étouffée? Siren Song has it. Honestly, the menu sings extraordinary. Beyond the delights tantalizing your senses of taste and smell, Siren Song offers plenty of bonus activities. Weekly Opinionation trivia, movie night on the projector screen and a Bloody Mary bar, as well as monthly cribbage tournaments, give all the incentive you need to be here often. Just like at Wayward, all the pieces fit and do so deliciously. For an alumnus of Veritable Quandary, opening shop in Canby seems a delicious act of rebellion, but locals and visitors simply call it tasty serendipity. 

ADDRESS

136 N. Grant Street Canby, OR 97013

HOURS

Mon., 3 to 9 p.m. Tues.–Wed., 3 to 10 p.m.

Thurs.–Fri., 3 p.m. to 12 a.m. Sat., noon to 12 a.m. Sun., noon to 9 p.m.

PHONE

503-266-7117

WEB

sirensongbar.com

1385

Part of the Family

Whether you dine in or take out, you’ll appreciate the same highquality, authentic-tasting Mexican dishes that stem from traditional recipes at Nuevo Vallarta Mexican Restaurant, a mainstay of the community.

signature dishes. According to restaurant manager Luis Robles, Rigoberto’s son, one of the most popular dishes remains Camarones Vallarta, which contains deep-fried shrimp wrapped in bacon and served with rice and beans. Carne asada is another top seller. Have food restrictions? Friendly waitstaff can help you find vegetarian/vegan dishes as well as gluten-free alternatives. “We’ll get you what you want,” Luis says. Keeping customers happy and producing excellent food are the foundation of its loyal patrons.

These same customers know the party room well, hosting gatherings in the space available for groups of different sizes. “I’ve seen a lot of birthday parties here over the years,” Luis says. “I’ve seen people bring their kids in car seats and come back when they’re turning 15 or 16.”

Nuevo Vallarta is always willing to reciprocate in its long-standing relationship with Canby. The family supports local church and school events by donating gift certificates and participating in fundraisers. “We help out where we can,” Luis says. “We feel very much a part of Canby.”

PHONE

503-266-1782

WEB

nuevovallartacanby.com

The Robles brothers have been pleasing diners for years. As a child, Rigoberto was the first brother to immigrate from Mexico. He took on a number of jobs until landing at a Seattle restaurant where he worked his way up, from washing dishes to restaurant manager. Rigoberto’s two brothers, Marcelino and Ismael, followed him to the States a few years later. Rigoberto helped his brothers get restaurant work, and they also learned the business. In 1994, all three moved to Oregon to start their own restaurant. In 1996, they opened Puerto Vallarta in the Canby area. Their current restaurant, Nuevo Vallarta, opened in Canby in 2001.

The menu showcases the freshest ingredients, meats and produce, not to mention a full bar serving Cadillac margaritas and housemade red wine sangria, along with great service and friendly staff.

Find your favorites starring chicken, steak, pork and seafood, plus soups, salads and

The restaurant is supported by a small local staff of family and friends; many have worked for the Robles brothers for years. The close-knit group of employees and devout clientele has created a community of its own. Spanning three generations now, the Robles family has been an important part of the Canby for many years and will be for many more. 

The B’s Knees

Is there a better, more inviting smell than a bakery? According to the Daily Mail in the U.K., there isn’t. In a 2015 poll, freshly baked bread “won by a nose” in the top 50 favorite scents, followed by bacon, newly mown grass and coffee.

At B’s Bake Shoppe in Canby, you’ll find two of those enticing aromas while visiting the cozy, open-kitchen bakery. The smells are just the start. One bite of anything on the artisan menu and the taste experience will have you returning time and again.

— check the schedule online for more details.

B’s soup and sandwiches attract both the breakfast and lunch crowds with palatepleasers such as the breakfast croissant sandwich with Canadian bacon and cheddar; toasted ham and brie; and turkey pesto BLT, among others.

As for coffee, the bakery serves espresso beverages and traditional coffee drinks. The beans come from Bespoken Coffee Roasters in Corvallis, and the select syrups are housemade. Again, the smells are top level.

ADDRESS

113 N.W. Second Avenue Canby, OR 97013

HOURS

Wed.–Fri., 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sat., 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sun., 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Closed Mon. and Tues.

PHONE

Customer appreciation is nothing new for owners Bethany and David Zito. The former pastry chef of The Painted Lady in Newberg — Oregon’s only Forbes Four-Star and AAA Four-Diamond dining experience — Bethany continues her mastery-level of skills in the kitchen alongside her chef husband. The couple has created such a successful bakery, they’re expanding their current space with much more seating — coming July 2023.

In fact, B’s remains one of the only bakeries between Portland and Salem that crafts artisan bread, baguettes and sourdough fresh daily, with rotating flavors.

If you’re a creature of habit and enjoy bread, no doubt this place will be habitforming. The Calabrian chili-oregano sourdough on Wednesdays, plus focaccia and scali, an Italian-style bread from Boston, will have you coming back week after week. The same goes for the apple-cheddar-walnut sourdough on Saturdays. The other days of the week promise more savory goodness

With a coffee in hand, it’s hard to pass up the pastry case. Get your nose and palate ready for croissants, crumb buns, sticky buns and buttermilk biscuits — Bethany’s favorite is the honey-rosemary version. Desserts include macarons, gourmet candy bars, cheesecakes, seasonal fruit galettes, housemade ice cream by the pint and, of course, cookies. Customers rave about the unusual but oh-so-addictive smoked white chocolate and chocolate chunk cookie.

Imagine the smell of THOSE baking? You don’t have to dream it. Just head to B’s for the ultimate sensory experience. 

503-266-2004

WEB

bsbakeshoppe.com

canbycones.com

Mixing in the Yum

Get ready to give CONES a swirl. The brand-new, much-anticipated shop blends ice cream with your choice of mix-ins in the heart of downtown.

Like stacking scoops atop a cone, the plan to open the store for the Leder family was layered and took time to achieve.

The idea started with a night out with friends. Dori Leder was frustrated with the lack of places in Canby to gather while indulging in sweet treats. A proud mother of six children — three are married; three still live at home — Dori also was influenced by Baskin-Robbins via two of her daughters. Jessi Leavitt, 28, worked at the ice cream chain making cakes, and Ellie House, 26, managed the same store. Dori even has a sister who now owns a Baskin-Robbins.

Finally, the Leders discovered fruitblended ice cream while visiting Ellie in Hawaii, where her husband is stationed in the Army. Dori and her husband, Bill, stopped by a shop using the Little Jem, an innovative blending machine from New Zealand. The couple took notes.

This “cool” technology is the heart of CONES, with a U.S. version called Swirl Freeze. The drill contraption transforms hard ice cream and fruit into a soft-serve treat. At CONES, choose from Marionberry, strawberry, blueberry, raspberry or mixed berry, all sourced from the Northwest.

There are plenty of other mix-ins, such as Fruity Pebbles, candy, nuts, chocolate and more. Look for cool combos, including “Canby Now,” a nod to the community Facebook page filled with “sweet and salty” comments. It includes pretzels, chocolate and toffee — over-opinionated ingredients not included.

Other combos include what Dori and Bill call “Best Friends,” blending Oreo cookies and Reese’s peanut butter cups with vanilla ice cream, and topped with chocolate hard-shell and peanut butter drizzle. For a truly indulgent dessert, “Berry Cheesecake” features your choice of fruit and cheesecake bites. More combos are coming, but Dori encourages people to dream up their own.

CONES serves housemade waffle cones, waffle chips and air-fyer fries for dipping. Dori says dairy-free ice and gluten-free alternatives are available, which includes the waffle cones.

Dori couldn’t be happier about owning a veritable joy factory. “People are always happy when they’re eating ice cream,” she says. Dori and Bill love working with their kids, too. Jessi manages with her mom and makes ice cream cakes. Ellie’s been busy developing glutenfree recipes. The remaining kids — Ty, 23; Sophie, 20; Macy, 17; and Bo, 10 — are also team members and official taste testers.

CONES, located downtown in the historic Canby City Hall building — erected in 1936 — promises a sense of community pride, not to mention a lot of seating, which includes a beautifully designed patio.

When this building became available, Dori knew her ice cream dreams were finally taking shape, like a triple stack of scoops. Make your day better; stop by CONES. 

PHOTO BY WAKANANDELINPHOTOS.COM

Fiesta of Flavor

Ironically, the Canby restaurant formerly known as Los Dos Amigos is still run by two amigos: co-owners and friends José Luis Oloarte and Angel Ramirez. But it’s now known by a new name, Los Dos Agaves, and has established itself over the past couple of years with a newly remodeled bar, banquet room and dining area, not to mention a menu packed with authentic Veracruz, Mexico-inspired cuisine and a wide variety of flavorful, crowd-pleasing drinks.

A nod to the plant from which tequila is made, the newly branded business hosts popular specials and deals most days of the week, starting with Mondays, when kids, 12 and under, eat free with the purchase of an adult meal — a family-friendly offer that remains important to both owners.

Tuesdays highlight tacos, of course, and the bar special affords you four made with any meat for only $9.95.

On Wednesdays, the bar offers margaritas for $5.95 in a wide variety of flavors, such as mango, strawberry, peach, blackberry and raspberry. On Thirsty Thursdays, customers can order a cantarito, a traditional cocktail from Veracruz made with tequila and fresh tamarind, orange and lime juice, and garnished with chamoy and Tajin chile seasoning. The drink comes from José’s hometown. His son, Manuel Oloarte, a server at the restaurant, explains,“In Veracruz, they sell cantaritos on the beach in a big clay jar. It’s very popular at our restaurant.”

The cocktail is available all days but is only $11.95 on Thursdays.

The menu focuses on authenticity, flavor and a variety of meats, seafood and spices. Favorites include the Bandera Enchilada, starring three enchiladas topped with green, white and red sauces inspired by the flag of Mexico; the fish and shrimp ceviche; and melt-in-your-mouth costillas, which are pork ribs served with deep-fried jalapeños.

Los Dos Agaves is well known for the fresh and authentic flavors of its dishes and drinks, but Manuel believes what really sets them apart is their passion for quality and customer service.

“I think the key to our success is communication and teamwork,” he says. “I feel our employees are like a second family. We trust one another, and we take care of one another. We have a great bond together. And, the No. 1 thing that has made our restaurant successful has been our customers. We always try to provide great service, and we have the best customers in the world.”

The restaurant hosts live mariachi music every second Sunday of the month from 3 to 5 p.m., and has a new climate-controlled patio for guests to enjoy. 

503-263-2433 (CHEF)

WEB

kingsfarmtotablecanbymarket.com

Foodie Fresh

Open since 2021, King’s Farm to Table Canby Market represents decades of culinary mastery. In fact, chef/co-owner Bill King has been in the business more than 50 years, with four cookbooks to his credit.

In the early ’80s, he donned the executive chef toque at the Aurora Colony Inn, followed by the opening of a Frenchstyle brasserie in Portland. Next, a 25-year stint, starting in 1985, at McCormick & Schmick’s, the surf-and-turf giant that grew from six locations to 96. King, the former corporate executive chef and vice president of culinary operations, was a key player in the expansion before the outfit was sold to a Houston firm in 2011.

Interestingly, his travels during that corporate stint continue to influence his culinary work, especially barbecue. King says he learned from pitmasters during his many trips. But it was at the farmstand he opened in 2017 with his wife, Jennifer, where he created a following for his smoked meats.

Located on Stafford Road, the farmstand was housed in a “shack” perfect for selling his barbecue, not to mention just-picked heirloom tomatoes, strawberries and more. In the Kings’ 2,500-square-foot garden, they cultivated the produce they sold.

Eventually, they looked for a brick-and-mortar opportunity to continue selling farmstandquality fruits and vegetables. In October 2021, the Kings landed in Canby, in the heart of the charming city’s downtown. To the specialty produce, he added local gourmet products and beverages, as well as the main focal point: the deli case.

Filled with housemade items, the case’s offerings range from old-fashioned meatloaf to mom’s Sunday supper lasagna, to more modern dishes such as tortellini in creamy alfredo sauce with spring vegetables. With six or eight different salads — typically 20 different products in the case at any given time — King’s Table is known for its chef-inspired delights, which brings us back to barbecue.

On weekends, May to October, patrons can devour what’s smokin’, such as Texasstyle brisket, western North Carolina-style pulled pork, baby-back ribs with a Tennessee sauce and more.

With such an experienced kitchen, King’s Farm to Table Canby Market has it covered, guaranteeing a truly delicious experience. The Canby Chamber of Commerce agrees, honoring the market with the 2022 Best New Business Award. 

Goat on the Green

On lush farmland on the edge of Canby, Chris and Terri Lynn Gesik have created their own “Field of Dreams.” The couple’s Frontier Golf Course was not an original build but rather a rescue operation, a “fix it, and they will come” opportunity.

In 2017, the longtime Canby residents purchased the Western-themed nine-hole, par-three course from the children of Joe Sisel, who opened the first four holes in 1964 in his backyard; the final five holes were added subsequently. Not interested in continuing the business, the second generation sold it to the Gesiks, who, upon signing the final papers, were well aware of the work ahead.

Not able to tell the fairways from the greens, Chris led the effort: clearing weeds, reseeding the grass, pruning surrounding plants, removing damaged trees and buying all the necessary equipment. The retirees — Chris from the car business, Terri Lynn from insurance — managed to slowly steer the course back to its former glory with the community cheering them along the way.

Some regulars remember the course well from the good ol’ days. Whether they played golf at Frontier during their high school

years or walked the greens alongside their grandparents or are brand new to the short course, locals seem pleased with the overall restoration, giving the Gesiks plenty of stellar reviews and referrals to friends.

On 10 acres surrounded by farms and merely a half mile from the Canby Ferry, Frontier offers a range of holes, 90 to 175 yards, on flat terrain that’s easy to walk. Known as a great place for beginners, Frontier promises challenges for low handicappers, too. All skill levels are welcome.

Visitors without clubs can rent a set from the Gesiks, who live next to the pro shop and are almost always on the grounds. Additionally, guests can book the entire course for private events. Frontier can provide tables and chairs, while customerreserved food trucks and catering companies are welcome to feed invited guests.

It’s no surprise the Gesiks live and work on the course. Golf remains the family’s favorite shared pastime. Their three children golfed in high school and still do. The couple used to be active members of the Willamette Valley Country Club a mile away, but they don’t tee off there very often anymore, as their schedule is quite full.

These days, the Gesiks are proudly running and maintaining their own private course, helping tourists and locals alike make memories under the sun, in the middle of Oregon farmland. For them, a dream come true. 

ADDRESS

995 N.W. 22nd Avenue

Canby, OR 97013

HOURS

August–September

Wed.–Sun., 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Closed Mon. and Tues.

October–July

Mon.–Fri., 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Closed weekends

PHONE

503-266-7711 or 800-410-6540

WEB

dahlias.com

Bloomin’ Good Time

In 1927, Charles Lindbergh made his famous solo, non-stop transatlantic flight in the Spirit of St. Louis. The same year, Swan Island Dahlias planted their first tubers.

For Oregonians, there’s no need to catch a plane to experience the almost 40 acres of stunning dahlias in full bloom from August to September. With no admission or parking fees, visitors can witness the stunning display of colors and textures that inspire art, poetry and more in the charming town of Canby.

For Nicholas Gitts and his family, dahlias are their everyday, and have been since 1963. Although the company is named for its original location a few miles downriver from downtown Portland, the operation calls Canby home. Now managed by the second and third generations, Swan Island Dahlias remains the nation’s largest dahlia grower. Primarily a mail-order company, Swan Island Dahlias ships more than 500,000 tubers across the U.S. and Canada every spring. However, the Gitts family offers fresh-cut flowers during the summer months, along with a charming farm and gift shop open year-

round that is undergoing a huge remodel, set to open in August 2023.

To celebrate the blooms, Swan Island Dahlias hosts the nation’s largest dahlia festival in August and September with something for everyone: art classes, music concerts, food trucks, a Sunday Market and, of course, gorgeous fields for strolling among 375-plus varieties.

For Swan Island Dahlias manager Heather Gitts-Schloe, Mikayla Miranda remains one of her favorites. “She is stunning, low growing, a great cut flower and a show stopper!” As for the most unusual, Schloe says look for the Japanese Bishop with its striking black foliage and red flowers.

While visiting, be sure to choose some tubers to order for your own garden. In Oregon, Schloe recommends waiting until the ground is workable and warm to plant — typically around Mother’s Day, as you can plant usually late April through May.

She offers more advice: “In our climate, do not water the tubers when you plant them. Instead, wait to water them when the green sprout appears above the ground. Then, they will need lots of deep watering during the summer months to thrive in full sun.”

Whether you’re seeking fresh-cut flowers or tubers to create your own mosaic of blooms, Swan Island is THE place for dahlias. Mark your calendars, clean your vases and get ready for unforgettable arrangements. 

Grounds for Fun

Clackamas County Fair & Events Center has something for everyone. Like to dress in Medieval garb? Huzzah. Dig on cover bands? Rock on. Enjoy a good swap meet? CCFEC has what you are looking for, so mark your calendar and start making plans.

The main attraction remains the Clackamas County Fair, Aug. 15–19. Since 1907, residents and visitors alike have descended on the same property to make the fair a family tradition. CCFEC Executive Director Brian Crow says he hears from all ages speaking fondly of their experiences, then and now.

At the “classic county fair,” expect local and regional bands. Other entertainment includes “America’s Got Talent” magician Scott Anderson, fast-playing Washboard Willy, the dazzling Circus Luminescence jugglers and dizzying Hillia Hula Hoop Extraordinaire, plus dance troupes, among other entertaining talents.

A schedule, map, scavenger hunt and more can be accessed via the app, which also contains details about the largest attraction, the world-class Canby Rodeo, currently ranked 39th out of 770 PRCA rodeos in the nation. The after-rodeo concerts will feature the Wandering Outlaws, Rock and Roll Cowboys, Macy Gard and others.

Pioneer Village, remote-controlled car races, STEM-related activities, a thrill-seeking carnival — see the fair from atop a ferris wheel — plus eclectic food make up another portion

of the fair. Farm animals, perfect produce and other contest items — pies, quilts, photography, etc. — are always wildly popular and continue to be the fair’s foundation. Besides the fair, the CCFEC hosts a variety of other events. The Oregon Renaissance Faire, three weekends in June, attracts LARPers and thousands of costumed commoners to Canby every year. The Clackamas Kennel Club Dog Show, June 23–25, promises a top-quality canine competition. Harefest, July 14–15, remains the mother of all tribute band festivals, and the 4-H Horse Fair, July 19–23, also guarantees a lot of hair, although a lot coarser and way more lustrous.

After weeks of set-up, the event itself and clean-up of the Clackamas County Fair & Rodeo, dog lovers will gather once again in Canby for the Northwest Australian Shepherd Dog Show in early September.

Other fall and winter events include the Oregon Canby Auto Swap Meet, Canby Historical Society Flea Market and Collectors West Gun Show. In December, it’s all happy holidays during Winter Fair with a holiday light show festive and affordable for the family.

At the start of the year, the staff takes a much deserved break, but soon, the calendar planning starts again, and so does the fun, which is always guaranteed at the CCFEC.

Curiouser and Curiouser

Renowned artist Henri Matisse once said: “Creativity takes courage.” For Shelley and Eric Arndt, owners of Art-O-Maddic Gallery in downtown Canby, that statement is a daily mantra.

Celebrating their two-year anniversary on June 24, the couple reflects on the journey they’ve taken, and the courage it takes to create an art sanctuary in a town known more for world-class farming than famous artists.

Art-O-Maddic was the first Canby business to launch post-Covid shutdowns, “We knew it would be an uphill effort each and every day,” says Shelley, who runs the day-to-day operations and is the majority owner. “But the community needed a central arts location.”

The Arndts make the most of their 1,600-square-foot space in the Graham Building. “We established our identity as a fun, whimsical, approachable art gallery with many artists you can’t find anywhere else, plus classes and supplies,” says Eric, who handles art curation and social media duties. In spite of a deteriorating economy in 2022, they saw steady demand for art classes and supplies. Eric adds, “We said, ‘Play the hits, and give the people what they want’.”

Going into 2023, they re-branded and significantly expanded the art supply section to include most everything customers have asked for, while adding a full-time creative space free for public use. Shelley admits, “We were scared to change, but it felt right to finally execute our original vision of being a gallery and creative sanctuary, in equal importance. Provide a space to learn, be inspired and meet other artists in a safe, creative environment.”

The change came with sacrifices, such as reducing artists. “It was not easy,” Eric shares. “We’re close to the artists we’ve represented. They’re our tribe. But we still have over 30 amazing artists on display and regularly rotate in new artists.”

The couple now focuses more on originals. “It really forced us to have nothing but the best on display,” says Shelley. “We created the type of place we would want (and do) shop at.” Eric adds, “This is all part of our mission to promote and grow the arts in the Canby area. We have many fun events and surprises planned for the next year.”

Follow the big green hat signs to 181 N. Grant St., Ste. 107. Shop online and check out the current class schedule at artomaddic.com and follow them on Facebook or Instragram @artomaddic. 

Celebrating Story

Once upon a time, a man took a woman on a date to a bookstore — ladies, flowers are great but marry the man who buys you books. Many years after that date, Megan and Paul Waterman built a bookstore with their children, so they could share incredible stories with the world.

The Book Nook has grown and evolved over the past six years, but its aim to celebrate the power of story with the community has remained the same.

the brick-and-mortar store, The Book Nook offers online shopping from the comfort of your home, either choosing your books to be shipped directly or having them shipped to the store for free.

If patrons prefer listening to stories, The Book Nook offers downloads via Libro.fm, a online company supporting independently owned bookstores.

Throughout the store, customers will find journals — for writing your own tale — plus greeting cards and thoughtful gifts. You never know what eclectic gems you will discover to inspire your own creativity.

With the mission to celebrate story in all its forms, The Book Nook carries a large selection of both new and gently used books, which customers are encouraged to bring in exchange for store credit.

The Book Nook also shares grand stories through its game selection — both card and board — and even hosts various role-playing game nights.

The store offers a safe community gathering place. Customers meet for book clubs, and local authors visit often to share their stories with others.

Bonnie, The Book Nook dog, featured in the store logo, often can be found snoozing behind the counter and loves visiting with customers. It is not uncommon for customers to bring in their fur babies, so Megan and staff always have a treat to share with four-legged visitors.

For those who simply cannot make it into

For the Watermans, every day is a blank page waiting to be written. Join them as they write The Book Nook’s next exciting chapter. The story continues! 

ADDRESS

107 N. Ivy Street Canby, OR 97013

HOURS

Wed.–Fri., 10:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Sat., 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sun., 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Closed Mon. and Tues.

PHONE

503-686-0478

WEB

thebarndoorboutiqueanddecor.com

Country Chic

Creating new from old inspired Lacey McGraw to open The Barn Door Boutique & Decor in Canby. She’d been handcrafting old leather belts into bracelets and earrings for a shop in Washington. Demand for her cool “new” accessories actually rerouted her course from college to entrepreneurship. Her parents were on board and ready to help.

It took a month of night-shift remodeling the former downtown office space — taking care not to disturb adjoining tenants during regular business hours. McGraw and her family worked into the wee hours of the next morning. In April of 2019, the hard work paid off: The Barn Door opened its doors.

The first day of business, she sold 75% of her inventory. Scrambling to design and order more items to fill the store, McGraw quickly connected with a number of local artists excited and inspired by what she was doing. After about nine months or so, she had a good idea of what she could sell inside her now buzzing boutique.

Newly renovated to celebrate her fourth year in business, Barn Door promises a fresh, new look waiting for you. You might also notice a revamped logo and branding, but, rest assured, it remains the same Canby business you know and love.

Whatever you’re seeking, Barn Door has it covered — in leather, linen, fringe, pearl

snaps, cotton, etc. With a focus on women’s clothing, accessories, jewelry, small gifts and decor, McGraw also sells some items for men. Customers shopping for women’s clothing can find jeans, shorts, skirts, rompers, dresses, stylish tops, T-shirts, tanks and more. McGraw says current summer trends include denim, taller boots, coastal cowgirl vibes and lots of neutral tones.

Because almost everything in the store is limited in quantity, with many handmade and one of a kind, the inventory constantly changes. Stopping by on a regular basis is a good idea, especially if you are trying to stay up to date with the latest trends.

Sweet Somethings

Who doesn’t love chocolate? Or sweets in general? If that’s you, Teresa Sasse of Puddin’ River Chocolates & Confections will change your mind. Her decadent delights are made with passion and real ingredients with 40plus years of food and catering experience guiding every creation.

Teresa’s career as a chocolatier started with a chocolate-making class. It quickly turned into an obsession. More classes followed with Teresa learning as much as should could before starting her business.

From European imported chocolate, Teresa has perfected her own blends using three to four different types of chocolate.

With the chocolate, she not only creates delicious desserts, but all kinds of confections. She focuses on keeping her ingredients local, even crafting custom truffles and treats for area wineries and breweries. Several local and Pacific Northwest businesses proudly carry her products.

At Puddin’ River, dark and milk chocolates are paired with more than three dozen truffle flavors to create an extensive selection. Besides truffles, Teresa makes chocolate-caramel popcorn, shortbread cookies, chocolate-hazelnut toffee, salted caramels and more. She also takes custom orders, so the possibilities are many.

More than just chocolate, Puddin’ River offers housemade cheese fondue for dipping at home. The classic sauce is ready to heat and serve. The fondue is a festive choice for parties or Friday night fun.

Really, Puddin’ River has every holiday covered — Christmas, Valentine’s Day, Easter, Halloween, etc. Whether it’s chocolates for hosting a party or gifts for guests, Teresa crafts and develops unique lines of chocolates and confections for every season and special occasions. The saying goes, “Never trust anyone who doesn’t like chocolate.” If that’s the case, Teresa and her staff are extremely trustworthy. So head over and get your chocolate fix at Puddin’ River Chocolates & Confections. 

ADDRESS

1438 S. Ivy Street Canby, OR 97013

HOURS

Tues.–Fri., 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Sat., 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Closed Sun. and Mon.

PHONE 503-263-2626

WEB

puddinriverchocolates.com

Protecting Canby and Beyond

The Canby Fire Board of Directors, staff and firefighters from the Canby Fire District (CFD) remain grateful to the community for their continued support.

During a recent meeting, the Fire Board set goals and objectives for the next three years. The first strategic plan under the leadership of CFD Fire Chief James Davis was approved by the Fire Board in 2015. Since the completion of the 2015 document, the plan was updated in 2017 and again in 2020. Some of the major accomplishments achieved since the initial plan include:

 CFD consistently met its established response time criteria for both fire and medical emergencies. Note: CFD is one of two fire districts in Clackamas County that provide advanced life support (paramedic) transportation for the area.

 The citizens passed a $4.9 million capital bond measure in 2016, and CFD has completed most projects as promised.

 Station 363, the Northside EMS Station, located on N. Redwood Street off Territorial Road, was opened and staffed, exceeding staffing as promised to the citizens. Land for this station was acquired through the City of Canby with a 50-year lease and made possible by the voters of Canby.

 CFD’s insurance rating was reduced by the Insurance Standards Office from a Class

8/10 in the non-hydrated areas to a Class 2 throughout the district.

 CFD ensures a minimum of six months of operations funding annually, from July to November, saving significant interest expense.

 A capital reserve fund was established to help replace apparatus and equipment.

 CFD continues to show fiscal accountability with all state audits and oversight by the Fire Board.

CFD is currently funded by a permanent property tax rate of $1.54 per $1,000 assessed valuation. Taxes collected in urban renewal areas do not contribute to the permanent rate until urban renewal bonds are paid off — at CFD, this is a difference of six firefighter/medics. CFD also receives $0.45 per $1,000 assessed valuation from a voterapproved special levy. In 2023, citizens voted in favor on the May 16 ballot to raise the rate to $0.95 per $1,000 assessed valuation. This increase in the levy will allow CFD to keep up with the increase in emergency calls.

In 2023, Fire Chief Davis will retire after 50 years of emergency services. His wife, Michelle, and their family have lived in Canby since 1996. Davis says, “Canby Fire District has, without hesitation, the highest degree of dedicated Fire Board [members], career firefighters/paramedics, volunteers, and executive staff that I have had the privilege to work with.”

Canby residents thank Fire Chief Davis for his leadership and dedication to the safety of the community. 

The Heart of Canby

For many community members, The Canby Center (TCC) is the heart of the city. Providing food, social services and more with volunteerism at its foundation and positive stories galore, “heart” is the only apt descriptor for an organization that leads with giving and guiding as its mission.

The faith-based group empowers families and youth out of poverty through programs, such as the Harvest Share food pantry and hot lunches served four days a week. The organization also provides a no-cost clothing shop for members, plus a washer and dryer is available, first come, first served.

TCC provides medical assistance through Medical Team International; the group performs emergency fillings and extractions. Furthermore, TCC partners with Hartwell Chiropractic and Canby Eyecare for those without insurance coverage.

revenue — plus grants and more. TCC’s success also relies greatly on the dedication of its 500-plus volunteers.

Steve says the volunteers get as much out of the experience as the recipients. He remembers how one such volunteer — jobless and feeling without a purpose — was brought to TCC by his wife. After a couple hours, the man’s outlook had drastically changed, asking if he could bring his family in the next day to help, too. Stories like this keep volunteers coming, donors giving and recipients ever so grateful.

ADDRESS

681 S.W. Second Avenue

Canby, OR 97013

HOURS

Mon., 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tues., 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

(9 a.m. to 11 a.m. Harvest Share)

In addition, TCC provides education services, i.e. after-school tutoring, life-skills classes and mentoring. One of the most treasured of TCC’s programs is Reading Mentors. Director of Development Steve Nelson says this program provides one-onone reading time with an adult for students who’d benefit most. Once a month, the kids take home a new book to help build their home libraries.

New to TCC, the Growing Together youth mentoring program promotes flourishing futures by pairing middle-school students with a caring adult mentor for academic and character development opportunities. TCC also hosts Kids Camp for students first grade to sixth, and a theater camp for pre-teens.

All this community care is made possible through personal donations — 65% of

TCC is such a resounding success, the group has raised more than $8 million to construct a much larger building so TCC can grow its mission. Construction will begin this year. Imagine what TCC can accomplish with a tripling of its space plus additional capital raised to ensure the success of programs for years to come.

The “heart” of Canby beats so strongly, other cities haven taken note of TCC’s success: a true testament to the hard work of everyone involved.

Want to help TCC complete its fundraising for future building maintenance? Consider the “Buy a Brick” program. Through the end of 2023, donors can purchase an engraved brick to leave a permanent legacy of their support for this vital community asset. Visit the website (see right) for details. 

Wed.–Thurs., 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sat., 9 to 10 a.m. (Harvest Share) Closed Fri. and Sun. PHONE

thecanbycenter.org

Join Us in Canby All Year Long!

Canby's Big Night Out Street

Restaurants & Taprooms

Ebner’s Custom Meats

272 N Grant Street

• 503-266-5678

Backstop Bar & Grill

211 N Grant Street

Siren Song

136 N Grant Street

Mike’s Place

404 NW 1st Avenue

Rice Time 356 NW 1st Avenue

Joy Kitchen 314 NW 1st Avenue

• 503-263-6606

• 503-266-7117

• 503-266-9343

• 503-266-2623

• 503-266-8898

Pappy’s Greasy Spoon

243 NW 2nd Avenue

Oaxaca Bakery

239 NW 2nd Avenue

Rounders

• 503-266-5452

• 503-263-4865

224 NW 1st Avenue • 503-266-1210

Gwynn’s Coffeehouse

190 NW 2nd Avenue

CONES

• 503-263-0200

150 N Holly Street • 503-266-2663

Wayward Sandwiches 117 NW 2nd Avenue • 503-266-3100

B’s Bake Shoppe

113 NW 2nd Avenue • 503-266-2004

Thai Dish Cuisine

108 N Ivy Street • 503-263-9898

Los Dos Amigos

102 N Ivy Street • 503-266-1441

The Human Bean

318 SW 1st Street

• 503-263-2326

The Wild Hare Saloon

1190 SW 1st Avenue

Dutch Bros

1115 SW 1st Avenue

FOB Taproom

• 503-651-4273

• 503-263-8824

1109 SW 1st Avenue • 503-263-2337

Thai Corner

1109 SW 1st Avenue • 503-263-2442

Starbucks Coffee

1075 SW 1st Avenue

• 503-313-8798

Guacamole Bowl

1011 SW 1st Avenue • 503-263-3940

Roxie’s Island Grill

1001 SW 1st Avenue • 503-641-7699

Camila’s Mexican Food

919 SW 4th Avenue • 503-951-4126

The Train Station Tavern

911 SW 4th Avenue • 503-266-3118

El Chilito Restaurant

403 SW 1st Avenue • 503-266-4966

Lone Elder Pizza

207 SW 1st Avenue • 503-266-1888

The Gold Dragon 204 SW 2nd Avenue • 503-263-1877

Wally’s Chinese Kitchen

679 SE 1st Avenue • 503-266-2221

Fultano’s Pizza

715 SE 1st Avenue • 503-266-1444

Denny’s

1369 SE 1st Avenue • 503-263-3182

Baker’s Prairie Bakery

1385 SE 1st Avenue • 503-266-2253

Nuevo Vallarta Restaurant

1385 SE 1st Avenue • 503-266-1782

Biscuits Café

1477 SE 1st Avenue • 503-263-3287

Teriyaki Oriental Grill

1477 SE 1st Avenue • 503-263-3445

Momiji Sushi

1477 SE 1st Avenue • 503-263-1150

Boutique Shops

Nature’s Pet Market – Canby

1477 SE 1st Ave #113• 503-266-1611

Northwest Furniture Outlet

23300 S. HWY 99E • 503-266-8800

Park & Lu Boutique

181 South Ivy Street • 503-819-1568

Bricks & Minifigs

250 SW 1st Avenue • 503-263-3337

Post Furnishings 288 NW 1st Avenue • 541-490-6212

Bikes N More

200 NW 1st Avenue • 503-266-9535

The Barn Door Boutique 107 N Ivy Street • 503-686-0478

Little Love Resale

151 N Ivy Street • 503-263-0045

Tin & Paisley 249 NW 2nd Avenue • 503-592-6070

The Book Nook 294 NW 2nd Avenue • 503-776-8999

Retro Revival 280 N Grant Street • 503-468-7090

Art-O-Maddic

181 N Grant Street #107 • 503-266-2787

Red Door Antiques 394 NW 1st Avenue • 503-592-9400

Canby Rental & Equipment

476 NW First Avenue • 503-266-7811

Canby Music 590 NW 1st Avenue • 503-263-2263

Grocery Stores

King’s Farm to Table Canby Market 241 NW 2nd Avenue • 503-263-2433

Cutsforth’s Market 225 NE 2nd Avenue • 503-266-2016

La Conasuper

733 SE 1st Avenue • 503-266-8982

La Mixteca Market 205 SE 1st Avenue • 503-266-6757

Entertainment

Canby Pioneer Chapel 508 NW 3rd Avenue • 503-516-5166

Canby Cinema 8 252 NE 2nd Avenue • 503-266-8438

Clackamas County Fair + Event Center 694 NE 4th Avenue • 503-266-1136

Swan Island Dahlias 995 NW 22nd Avenue • 503-266-7711

Frontier Golf Course 2965 N Holly Street • 503-266-4435