Forest Grove Community Advantage Magazine June 2023

FOREST GROVE

COMMUNITY ADVANTAGE

A Taste of Mexico City

ADMINISTRATION

Matthew Nelson, Publisher

Catrina Nelson, CFO

Tara Weidman, Executive Assistant

Donovan Darling, Content Manager

PRODUCTION

Jeremy Okai Davis, Art Director

Hilary Berg, Sr. Graphic Designer

Brittany Jungenberg, Sr. Graphic Designer

Morgan King, Sr. Graphic Designer

Shawn Schmidt, Sr. Graphic Designer

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

David Bates Patti Jo Brooks

Tyler Francke Olive Gallagher

Angie Helvey Robert Matsumura

Dennis McNabb Kelly Romo

Alice Wiliams

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Laurel Bice Carly Carpenter

Tyler Francke Angie Helvey

Malaina Kinne Lisa Kuhlman

Kara Langley Tayler Lundquist

Andrew Sambuceto Henry Schifter

Hayley Starkey Brittney Waterman

ADVERTISING SPECIALISTS

Don Ormsby Bill Kistler

Stephanie Baker Jim Belan

Peggy Jacobs David Long

Chris O’Brien John Zobrist

Brad Marti Shelley Zeman

Tina Toney Darren Dwyer

Ashley Berotte Mary Kay Wiens

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Forest Grove Fusion

Eclectic estaurant has something for everyone

trendy, and clean — I have never seen a restaurant this clean before. Sudha provided both a standard laminated menu and a happy hour menu. She was attentive yet didn’t hover. The menu was expansive and eclectic. I ordered Mert’s basic burger, made with local beef. In my head, I could hear my mom’s voice say, “That cow was from just East of the Cascades” as I enjoyed eating.

The design of the space makes navigating a wheelchair or a walker easy. I could envision how my family would delight in sharing time and a meal at Bites. The menu has options for those with sensitive stomachs and plenty of diverse dishes for our culinary explorers. The vibe suits my down-to-earth family as well as my ever-trendy (possibly snooty) friends and colleagues. The tapas-style appetizers are a perfect pair to their artisanal cocktails. The outdoor tables are ideal for those who love to dine with Fido. Visit their website for options to order and pick up your meals if eating at the restaurant is not your preference.

By Alice Williams, Contributing Writer

Photos by Malaina Kinne

Ritika Chand, an ambitious entrepreneur pursuing a dual graduate degree, and her mother, Sudha Chand, a first-generation American who immigrated from India, run the internal operations of Bites Restaurant located in Forest Grove. Sudha and Ritika’s love for cooking and bringing the community together by sharing homemade recipes that nourish the soul motivates them to serve diners at Bites. Ritika shared, “We believe in sharing rich cultures through different types of cuisines under one establishment. Therefore, we share an authentic and fresh perspective through our entrees and tapas-style appetizers. Additionally, we offer signature crafted cocktails that express the appreciation for diversity.” Their menu is indeed diverse and expansive, including anything from egg rolls to crab cakes, tacos to donburi, crepes to pasta. They have it all.

On a quiet Thursday afternoon, I was privileged to experience perfect hospitality at Bites Restaurant. Sudha seated me and provided silverware, a water glass, a napkin, and a tall bottle of refrigerated filtered water. Those of you who are germ-conscious will appreciate the minimalist handling of the dinnerware and the allowance to pour your own water. The option to have bottled or canned soft drinks instead of fountain drinks was pleasing for the same reason. The restaurant space was cozy,

Bites Restaurant fosters a connection to the community and provides an opportunity to experience diverse cuisines made from premium ingredients. After dining, I recommend picking up one of the 12-ounce jars of homemade sauces available for at-home cooking adventures.

Bites Restaurant is located at 2014 Main Street in Forest Grove. Please give them a call at (503) 746-6812 or visit their website at www.bitesrestaurant.com.

Fusion IN FOREST GROVE

New Brunch

Devour our brand-new exclusive brunch menu every day, 8AM–2:30PM. Reservation only. Limited availability. Call to reserve.

Happy Hour

Enjoy $1 off signature cocktails and $2 off beer and wine, Tuesday–Saturday, 3–6PM

Live Music

Relax to the sounds of Straw Boss every Friday, 6–8:30PM

Forest Grove’s rustic-chic bistro serves eclectic tapas-style plates, such as tacos, dumplings, and crab cakes, along with entrées of burgers, pasta, brunch specials, and unique signature cocktails and local wines. Come in and try a bite.

Let us cater & host your next private event. Call us today!

The Blue Sea is an exclusive seafood Boil & Grill kitchen. Come on down and experience our exciting flavors, the menu focuses on the best ingredients and the abundance of the ocean, honored to serve the best seafood culinary. Look for us in the Zesti Food Carts Village. in Forest Grove.

A Taste of Mexico

Unique Mexican flavors & classy vibes

By Angie Helvey, Contributing Writer

Photos by Malaina Kinne

Sometimes the best eats are hidden in plain sight!

Tucked behind the Cornelius Fred Meyer in a small strip mall sits Casa Lola Kitchen de Mexico, the best place to find fresh, tasty, and authentic Mexico City cooking with elevated flavors and a classy vibe.

The Cornelius location is the second installation of Casa Lola, the first in Beaverton, both owned by the Cortes family. Carlos Cortes grew up in Mexico City and worked in several Tex-Mex chains in California to learn the business side of running a restaurant. His recipes, however, come straight from Mexico. “The recipes come from the style of cooking you find in Mexico City, dishes I ate at home when I was a child,” Carlos says.

The menu at Casa Lola features tons of unique, mouthwatering dishes you won’t find at your typical Mexican restaurant. The most popular dishes include the Pollo Relleno (succulent chicken breast stuffed with queso fresco, finished with a creamy poblano pepper sauce and white rice), the Pollo en Chile Morito (prepared the same but with a creamy Morita pepper sauce), and the Carnitas (slow roasted pork and avocado, pico de gallo, chipotle sauce and tortillas). Or try a nice juicy ribeye steak with a side of caramelized jalapeno mushroom sauce and mashed potatoes. The Chamorro en Salsa Verde

is another customer favorite, pork shank smothered in their signature tomatillo sauce and served with white rice.

Suppose you’re craving a more traditional meal, Casa Lola has you covered with options like the Lola Bowl (rice, beans, lettuce, mango pico de gallo, and choice of steak, chicken, carnitas, fish, or shrimp topped with Mexican cream, queso fresco, and avocado). Several tasty vegetarian options are also available, and they even serve brunch on the weekends! Save room for dessert because the Tres Leches Cake is delectable.

There’s nothing like a fresh, homemade margarita without all the artificial flavors and syrups. Casa Lola does it right, slinging made-to-order margs with award-winning tequila and agave nectar. Or try a sweet and fruity Paloma or refreshing Mexican beer. The restaurant boasts a full bar area with televisions, a perfect place to hang out and relax, especially during their daily happy hour!

Carlos works hard to provide an all-around fantastic experience at Casa Lola. “I’m always looking to get the best quality ingredients, certified Angus beef, and we source locally whenever possible,” explains Carlos. “I love becoming friends with my customers, and the place is very welcoming. You won’t see your typical bright colors and pinatas; it’s more classic with solid colors and a cozy ambiance.” Meals are all-inclusive, so if you need extra sour cream or tortillas, get as much as you want at no extra cost. “We want to treat people like they were in our house,” Carlos says. “Our greatest satisfaction is when customers leave complimenting the food and the service.”

Visit Casa Lola Kitchen de Mexico for authentic and elevated Mexican cuisine in a casual, relaxing dining room with friendly and welcoming staff. Don’t miss out on this family-owned hidden gem!

Casa Lola Kitchen de Mexico is located at 148 N 20th Ave. in Cornelius and 16325 SW Barrows Rd. #100 in Beaverton. Visit their website at casalolapdx.com to view their menu, order online, or make reservations.

All That Jazz

A local treasure celebrating her 10th year of bringing the best jazz in the city to Langdon’s Grill in Aurora!

BY DENNIS MCNABB, STAFF WRITER

Rebecca Hardiman is a unique and singular talent. Growing up on a steady diet of jazz standards courtesy of her father, she gained a genuine appreciation for the genre at a young age. By the time she reached high school, she discovered she had an innate talent for singing in that style, and began honing her skills in the jazz choir. Straight out of high school, she auditioned and was selected out of over 100 applicants to enter the prestigious Soundsation Vocal Jazz program at Edmonds College in Washington. That’s where she got her first taste of life on the road, touring Europe and performing at a host of different festivals and venues.

Dazzling audiences and fellow musicians everywhere she performed, she was then recruited to join the prestigious Bostonbased vocal jazz group, The Ritz. There she began her professional career, recorded her first CD entitled “The Ritz,” and met her future husband, Ray Hardiman (the group’s keyboard player). It was an incredible and enlightening experience for them both, but playing in a touring band while simultaneously working full-time jobs was unsustainable as a long-term way of life.

In 1990, they moved from the East Coast back to Rebecca’s home state of Oregon. They continued playing with a variety of local bands—most notably, the vocal jazz group Euphoria which Rebecca

not only formed, but also played in for over a decade. Entertaining and inspiring audiences all over the Northwest, they were a cornerstone of the festival circuit, but it was all familiar territory for Rebecca. She was and always had been a part of a larger group. It was time to break out on her own, and that’s when her star truly began to shine.

In March of 2013, Ray began playing Friday nights at Langdon’s Grill. Shortly thereafter, Rebecca joined him, and over the succeeding months they developed a rabid following. Now, exactly 10 years later, Rebecca, Ray, and Whitney Moulton–their incredible bass player who is an equally incredible human being and integral part of the group–are one of the most popular and renowned jazz house bands in the Portland Metro Area. And their home is right here in Aurora! While their regular band consists of Rebecca, Ray, and Whitney, they also attract a host of guest musicians from all over the Northwest. Everyone who is anyone on the Portland jazz scene jumps at the chance to play with this “little band” out in Aurora.

So, listen up folks! Next time you and the spouse are looking for a fantastic Friday date night, including great food, great atmosphere, and the best entertainment in the city, look no further than Langdon’s Grill. Every Friday night between 6-8 PM, Rebecca, Ray, and Whitney hit the stage, and they will absolutely transport you to another world! Come celebrate 10 years of excellence!

Check out her website at RebeccaHardiman.com for more information and access to her incredible recordings.

JOIN US! FOR OUR PRE RELEASE EVENT

J une16-18

BOREDOM BUSTERS FOR A SUNNY SUMMER!

By Donovan Darling, Staff Writer

Kids and adults alike CAN’T WAIT for summer to roll around every year. But without fail and after a few weeks, the phrases “I’m bored” and “There’s nothing to do!” are inevitable. Here are some fun things to do to BUST that summer boredom before it starts!

Climb a Tree

This might sound weird, but there’s no better way to feel like a kid or literally get into nature. Read a book or see how high you can climb!

Photograph

With modern cameras, almost anyone can take great photos. Look up a photo challenge or list of practice shots, and get out there. It’s actually quite fun!

Take a Hike

Just getting outside in the fresh air is a great way to enjoy summer. Long or short, flat or steep, woods or beach, it doesn’t matter. Bring some snacks and drinks!

Go Camping

Go to a local state or national park, the beach, or even your backyard! If you’re not a big camper (me neither), roast some marshmallows and hotdogs in a fire pit instead.

Make Popsicles

A favorite of mine and actually very easy. You just need a blender, popsicle mold and sticks, frozen fruit and juice, yogurt, and honey or agave nectar. And it’s a healthy and fun way to eat fruit.

Swim

When it’s finally warm enough to swim in the PNW, find a creek, river, lake, or local beach. If you don’t love swimming, at least get your feet wet, collect rocks or shells, or watch the wildlife.

Upcycle

No, not biking. Upcycling is where you take free old junk and make it into art or something useful, like a bathtub becoming a planter box. The possibilities are endless. Look online!

Play a Sport

Anything from yard games like croquet or cornhole, to golf and tennis, sports are great for exercise, endorphins, and vitamin D. And an easy way to socialize and get outside.

Movie Night

Just the family, or invite friends over. Pop some popcorn, bust out the candy and soda. For a real adventure, rent an outdoor projector and watch outside on a white sheet or blank wall.

Superb Customer Service Since 1971

Continuing the commitment to community

“We are extremely thankful for our guests, the community, and our Beaverton Toyota family. What a great ride: we couldn’t have done it without you! We believe our greatest strength is listening to our guests and team members. In fact, we transformed our business model to “One Person, One Price” in 2014 based on years of guest feedback. We call it CLEAR — a simple, fun and transparent purchase and ownership experience. We are here to listen and advise you on the best ownership experience for you!”

Striving to make Beaverton Toyota “the best” in service, Russ Jr. hired Service Director Jim Waters to head up the department. “The goal was to serve customers the best, be the best place to work for our employees, and be the best company in the community,” Jim relates. As a result of the Service Team’s combined efforts, Beaverton Toyota is now the seventh largest Toyota Service department in the nation and the largest in the state of Oregon. As proud as they are of this accomplishment, it was achieved by simply wanting to be the best. “I’m honored to be the

By Patti Jo Brooks, Contributing Writer

Photos by Malaina Kinne

Beaverton Toyota has served the community for the last 52 years! Since 1971, when Russ Humberston Sr. opened Beaverton Toyota in its original location in West Slope, just a few miles from where it is today, they have been a mainstay of the local community. Russ Humberston Jr. took over the dealership following his father’s passing in 2014, bringing the company forward into the age of technology and continuing the traditions and commitment to the community.

head of this team, but they do the work,” Jim acknowledges. “I manage a wonderful team that makes all this happen.”

To help build that “wonderful team,” Steve Roos, the resident historian and senior employee, provides the orientation and training for all new hires; that training includes interesting historical trivia about Beaverton Toyota, as well as the means to properly take care of their customers. “Customer service is our No. 1 priority,” Jim emphasizes, saying, “We respect our customers’ time. We want to be sure we’re working hard for them, doing the right thing, sticking together as a team and having fun while we’re doing it. That’s what we live by!”

Stop by Beaverton Toyota, located at 4300 SW Murray Blvd. For more info, call or text (503) 626-7200, visit their website beavertontoyota.com, or email service@beavertontoyota.com.

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