Lake Oswego Lifestyle Magazine April 2024

ADMINISTRATION

Matthew Nelson, Publisher

Catrina Nelson, CFO

Tara Weidman, Executive Assistant

Jeremy Okai Davis, Art Director

Donovan Darling, Content Manager

Kate Astle, Copyeditor

Kaity VanHoose, Social Media Manager

SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNERS

Hilary Berg Sean Carver

Dani DeGraw Brittany Jungenberg

Morgan King Justin Nelson

Shawn Schmidt

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Patti Jo Brooks Olive Gallagher

Angie Helvey Lucas Holmgren

Robert Matsumura Dennis McNabb

Edward Novak Kelly Romo

Gretchen Van Lente Ty Walker

Alice Williams Kerry Yu

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Laurel Bice Carly Carpenter

Tyler Francke Angie Helvey

Brittany Jungenberg Malaina Kinne

Lisa Kuhlman Kara Langley

Andrew Sambuceto Henry Schifter

Hayley Starkey

ADVERTISING SPECIALISTS

Don Ormsby Bill Kistler

Stephanie Baker Peggy Jacobs

David Long Chris O’Brien

John Zobrist Brad Marti

Shelley Zeman Tina Toney

Darren Dwyer Lynnette Scott

Looking to reach local consumers?

We Specialize in direct-mail products: community magazine advertising, mailing inserts, postcards and more. For more information, call 503.825.2111 or email info@ActiveMediaUSA.com

I had a wonderful experience, staff was very nice and Angie, the RN, is very kind and knowledgeable. I arrived home and was very relaxed and woke up with lots of energy. One of the best businesses to have nearby if you want to try a new approach to health. I almost forgot, the massage chairs…simply heavenly! I can go back just for the chairs but I will definitely go back for those beneficial treatments.

—Octavia Nightingale

Was absolutely fantastic from the start to the finish! I feel wonderful—so glad I did this. This was worth every penny; really enjoyed the massage bed. Plan on going back just need to make my appointment. This was awesome.

—Dawn Holman

My first experience at Prime IV Tualatin was amazing! Since it’s brand new, I expected it to be nice, but it far exceeded my expectations. My wife didn’t really want to come with me, but now she wants to be a member and has raved to me about how she felt like “it was a day at the spa!” From the moment we entered the front door, the receptionist was extremely kind and inviting, treating us like royalty. The hospitality was off the charts. The treatment itself was fantastic and I felt like a million bucks afterwards. I live in Salem and have a long commute, but it’s worth the drive, I can’t wait until my next time to Prime IV!

—Luke Vettrus

Looking Forward

A solution to your dream home

House technology as well as impact, sound and weather resistance, Pella Windows & Doors holds a place among the elite of the industry.

By Patti Jo Brooks, Contributing Writer

Photos courtesy of Pella Windows & Doors

Why choose Pella Windows & Doors for your home? Beauty. Innovation. Efficiency. Homeowners appreciate the high-quality national brands Pella offers along with trusted local service. Pella’s new “Experience Center,” located on their Nimbus site in Beaverton, serves to showcase Pella’s innovative state-of-the-art products featuring choices suitable for any home and any lifestyle. Visit Pella Windows & Doors. Step into the Experience. Explore your dreams!

A family-owned, multi-generational company, Pella has been doing business since 1925. “We offer a national brand, but we’re also involved locally,” relates Tim Fetters, general manager of the Beaverton branch. “We’re known for quality and innovation,” he says, pointing out that Pella has a product for “every type of opening out there.” With over 150 patents, innovation remains a key component of the Pella culture. Leaders in energy efficiency, including Passive

This month, Pella is announcing a new installation method for their wood windows. This innovative method is unique, unlike any install offered by other companies industry-wide. Once the new technique is launched on Pella’s wood window installs, the process will be utilized for all Pella window installations. Another game-changing innovation Pella offers is their awardwinning Easy-Slide Operator on casement windows. A simple slide-motion adjusts your casement window to any desired position with ease.

Additionally, Pella Windows & Doors features its own Luxury Division which specializes in one-of-a-kind custom designs and engineering. “We don’t push beyond the limits. We set them,” proclaims the Pella Luxury Brand. Industry pioneers, Pella Luxury Division partners with Duratherm and Reilly Architectural to provide innovative solutions for even the most challenging propositions. And when all is said and done, Pella offers Smart Home Insynctiveâ Technology for added functionality and peace of mind while you’re away.

Fetters, who took over as general manager of the Beaverton branch in 2022, is steadily building a local presence in the community. A member of the Lake Oswego Chamber of Commerce, Beaverton Chamber of Commerce and the local Home Builders Association, Pella Windows & Doors is gaining in local recognition. Focused on community support, Pella’s Beaverton Customer Service Department is readily available to service Lifetime Warranty products for their clients, should they need assistance.

Fetters proudly acknowledges that Pella Windows & Doors has been awarded Newsweek’s “America’s Greatest Workplaces for Diversity” for 2024, their second year in a row for this honor.

Pella Windows & Doors is located at 9740 SW Nimbus in Beaverton. Call today (503) 746-8338 or e-mail TNFetters@pella.com. For more information or to order online, visit pella.com.

Spring Into Action

April can have unpredictable weather patterns in the Pacific Northwest. Mostly rainy days with breaks of sun. Cooler temperatures and sometimes even ice and snow have made appearances in early spring. You can still get your hands dirty. Planning and preparation for a beautiful show of blooms and bountiful edibles are in order this month.

1. Fertilize your lawn. Allow the early spring rain to carry the fertilizer into the soil.

2. Bait for slugs. Apply slug bait around newly planted flowers and emerging perennials. Clean the areas that harbor debris and make good hiding places for slugs, sowbugs and millipedes.

3. Prepare the garden soil for spring planting. Incorporate organic material and other amendments as needed.

4.Prune and shape spring-blooming shrubs and trees after the blossoms have faded.

5. Cut and remove weeds near the garden areas to decrease the risk of plant disease.

6. Plant summer-blooming bulbs like gladioli, lilies and begonias….as long as weather permits.

7. Cover transplants to protect against late spring frosts.

8. Start planting your vegetable garden. Plant cabbage, lettuce, broccoli and other cole crop vegetables. It is also the perfect time to plant strawberries.

Alternative outdoor gardening planning can include implementing raised beds if you don’t have the space in your yard. Container gardening for herbs, pretty perennials and annuals can scratch the gardening itch. Indoor gardening is always in season. Houseplants come out of their dormant stage and could use a transplant.

Looking for more spring gardening inspiration? Find exactly what you’re looking for at Al’s Garden & Home’s four locations or online at als-gardencenter.com.

SPRING INTO AL’S!

Pack For A Purpose

Traveling with compassion

By Jamie Anderson, VTA, Travel & Cruise Desk

An Idea

In the heart of every traveler lies the potential to not just explore but to positively impact the communities they visit. At Travel & Cruise Desk, we believe that travel has the power to bridge cultures, foster understanding, and contribute meaningfully to local communities. With this spirit, we would like to introduce you to “Pack for a Purpose.” This initiative transforms the simple act of packing for your trip into a gesture of goodwill and compassion. This national non-profit has teamed up with organizations and hotel partners in destinations all over the world. These contacts inform the charity of what’s most needed and the lists are posted at packforapurpose.org. Travelers can then use a small amount of space in their luggage to pack items needed by community projects around the world. It is an easy process, and, in most cases, these are basic supplies, so an inexpensive visit to a Dollar Store will provide enough items to make a significant difference.

The Scale

resources, or pet care items, your contribution will make a meaningful difference to a community in need.

Our Example

What’s truly special about the idea behind “Pack for a Purpose” is its flexibility and reach. The concept is adaptable even if your destination or hotel isn’t listed on this specific site. There are ways your local travel professional can help connect you with an in-country contact to identify the most needed supplies for that specific location. Take Maui, for example: the destination is not listed, but we know that displaced families from Lahaina are in the process of transitioning to long-term housing. Right now, their most needed items include towels, bathroom supplies, and items for the kitchen. No matter which destination, and whether it’s school supplies, medical

My wife and I recently embarked on a memorable journey to Cartagena, a city renowned for its historical beauty and vibrant culture. Before departing, we looked up the destination at packforapurpose.org and found that there are two charities currently listed and accepting donated items in this destination. We decided to pack extra pet supplies, including flea and tick meds, bandages, chew toys, and dog collars for “Paws for Cartagena,” a program dedicated to the welfare of street animals (pictured). The process was effortless and added more to our experience than we could have imagined. Not only did we feel good about contributing to the well-being of animals in need, but we also had the unique opportunity to meet the remarkable woman behind “Paws for Cartagena,” Jennifer Ponsford. As it turned out, like me, she is originally from Scotland. I initially thought that this was such a remarkable coincidence, given that we were on the other side of the world, but I have come to realize that programs like these really help uncover those underlying links that are always there but often go unseen. The experience not only offered us this authentic connection but a chance to talk with a familiar local in an unfamiliar destination about their favorite sites, restaurant suggestions and more.

Your Invitation

We invite you to consider “Pack for a Purpose” for your next trip. In return, we believe that the joy of giving back and the enriching experience of connecting with locals will elevate your journey to more than just a vacation. Whether you book with us, another travel service, or on your own, you can embrace a travel philosophy that values compassion, connection, and the desire to make a difference. Join in this journey of purposeful travel, and together let’s create experiences that make a difference.

Paws for Cartagena

Sandals Ochi Beach Resort

Playa Viva - school supplies

Are you the next mirror-ball trophy winner?

Calling All Veterans & Retired Military Personnel

In the spirit of service, we invite you to step up to the dance floor and learn the art of partner dancing with your very own Pro Partner!

Fred Astaire Dance Studios of Oregon is recruiting former servicemen/servicewomen to participate in our third annual Dancing With Our Heroes event this fall, dedicated to making a tangible impact in the lives of local veterans and military families. But we can’t do it without YOU… Ever watched a season of Dancing With The Stars and wondered what it would be like to go from novice to showstopping performer in just a matter of months? THIS IS YOUR MOMENT! Instead of celebrity, your dance moves will inspire donations that go directly back to those who have selflessly served our nation. And the bonus — you’ll pick up some five star moves in the process!

We’re hosting an interest meeting in Lake Oswego on April 13, where you’ll learn more about what it looks like to be a participant and other ways to contribute to the cause.

Together, let’s rally behind our Veterans and show them the unwavering support they deserve. Multiply this message of gratitude by spreading the word throughout your patriotic and philanthropic communities.

Know a Veteran you’d LOVE to see Cha Cha, Jive or Tango? Share this article with them!

Contact (971) 255-1918 or email lakeoswego@fredastaire.com to learn more. And join us on April 13 to discover how you can dance with purpose and honor at Dancing With Our Heroes 2024!

Lakeside Libations

The grand opening of downtown Lake Oswego’s premier taphouse

By Angie Helvey, Contributing Writer Photos by Brittany Jungenberg

Idyllic and picturesque, Lake Oswego is known for being one of the most charming cities in Oregon. Lake View Village in the heart of downtown boasts a playground of artisan boutiques and world-class restaurants situated prettily along sandy shores.

But something’s been missing, and Lake View Taphouse is here to fill the void. Barry Cain of Gramor Development and Five Spice LLC, and Five Spice LLC CEO Jeff Skeele are excited to welcome the community to their newest collaboration that will marry the best local brews with a casual and

commodious venue and Pacific Northwestinspired bites.

The fourth brainchild of Jeff and Barry’s seven-year partnership, Lake View joins a family of award-winning properties by Five Spice LLC that includes Five Spice Seafood & Wine Bar, Pizzeria sul Lago, Cafe Murrayhill, The Murrayhill Taphouse and The Waterfront Taphouse.

The opening is scheduled for April Fool’s Day, and fun surprises are fittingly in store. Manzana Rotisserie Grill occupied the formerly dark and moody space until it closed last fall, and Five Spice LLC has been busy transforming the restaurant into a place for communal gatherings.

“We took out the dark wood and let in the natural light for an airy, comfortable space with a great feel. You’ll hardly recognize it,” says Barry. “We also opened up the separate dining room and bar into one area that makes a convivial environment for families.”

An emphasis on Northwest-centric cuisine is a cornerstone of all the Five Spice properties, and the menu at Lake View Taphouse promises something for every preference and appetite. Longtime Executive Chef at Five Spice, Bryce Hirayama, currently oversees Pizzeria sul Lago and will lend a guiding eye to the new restaurant.

“It’s a broad menu,” Jeff says. “Lots of shared plate opportunities

and gastropub fusion as well as elevated entrees. It’s much more than just a taphouse.” Additional delights like happy hour and weekend brunch will join the agenda as things progress.

As you might expect, the tap list at Lake View is a glorious library that features 24 unique craft brews, ciders, wines and even some fun cocktails that are also “on tap” and made locally. “Our focus is working with purveyors deeply entrenched in the Northwest, particularly Oregon and Washington,” Jeff explains.

The open floor plan makes it an apt destination for any occasion, whether you’re out on a date night or in search of a group setting for a boisterous family meal. A stunning private dining room with over 50 seats can be reserved for events. Outdoor seating with heated areas, a giant fire pit, lights, music and Adirondack chairs add to the scene and views of the shimmering lake across the park.

“It’s a casual, family-friendly place people can go where they don’t have to spend a lot of money and there are choices for everybody,” Barry emphasizes. “It’s the

missing piece we need to revive the amazing synergy this downtown area is capable of.”

Finding the right people to represent the Five Spice brand is a priority, and a crackerjack team has already begun to emerge. “We want to give exceptional service but in a comfortable, Northwestern way, which has no pretense,” Jeff says. “Our staff need the skill set and product knowledge, but also the ability to

build relationships with our guests and treat each table as an individual rather than just a number coming through.”

It’s been almost 19 years since Barry opened the first Five Spice location, and Lake View Village recently celebrated its 20th anniversary. “It’s such a unique spot in the Portland Vancouver area, and it’s been a pleasure being part of the community,” says Barry. “I know this will be a great new addition.”

So grab your friends and family and join Five Spice LLC in celebrating the highly anticipated Lake View Taphouse, a place to gather over locally sourced beers with delectable accompaniments. It’s sure to be an instant favorite for downtown Lake Oswego and beyond.

Lake View Taphouse is located at 305 1st St., downtown Lake Oswego. Please give them a call at 503-744-4873 or visit their website at lakeviewtaphouse.com.

A Family-Owned Tradition Since 1878

Appliance experts serving the Pacific NW

By Dennis McNabb, Staff Writer

Photos by Carly Carpenter

The Basco legacy began 145 years ago when Patrick J. Cronin opened a harness and saddle manufacturing company on Front Street. Over the next five generations, the business continuously innovated and evolved into what it has become today: the most heralded and respected high-end luxury appliance retailer in the region!

Dealing to designers, builders, developers, retail customers and more, the organization — now under the expert leadership of current owner and CEO Marty Cronin and President Chris McConn — Basco boasts an e-commerce business in addition to three amazing brick-and-mortar locations: one in the Pearl District, one (outlet store) in the NW Industrial Area and one right here in Lake Oswego.

When you experience the Northwest’s largest showroom of its kind, it’s easy to understand why there’s simply nothing else in town that compares! With over 30 custom-designed “live” kitchens on display, you can not only touch, feel and see the appliances in a real setting, but you can test them out! And they are constantly evolving this experience in order to better serve the customer.

Following trends in design, color and customization, Basco strives to always provide the largest selection of soughtafter luxury brands in the most innovative and interactive environment possible. They are also committed to becoming the industry’s largest resource for induction appliances, the fastest growing segment in the industry. If you are seeking indoor or outdoor appliances, there is no place better to find the most stunning focal-point pieces available. Their brands will match any aesthetic and deliver peak performance and quality every time. Come visit their very knowledgeable, experienced and professional sales staff today!

Check out their website at bascoappliances.com for more info, or come down to their beautiful showroom and innovation center located at 15383 SW Bangy Road in Lake Oswego.

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Patients can explore a myriad of options including advanced skincare treatments, injectables, laser therapy and minimally invasive procedures such as microneedling and chemical peels. The allure lies not only in the breadth of services but the holistic approach, which combines cutting-edge technology with luxury for a beautiful, natural looking result.

Choosing the right provider means finding someone with experience, a proven track record and a wide variety of procedures to offer. The providers at Très Chic MedSpa are proficient with a large variety of techniques and an extensive number of laser options as well as non-invasive procedures. All it takes is one phone call to schedule an appointment!

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Classical Guitar in Lake Oswego

Offering world-class concerts, guitar instruction and master classes

By William Jenks,

U.S. Classic Guitar President

U.S. Classic Guitar President William Jenks is excited to present Croatian guitar virtuoso

Ana Vidovic on Thursday, April 25, 2024 at 7:30 p.m. A master class will precede Vidovic’s performance at Christ Church Episcopal Parish on Wednesday, April 24 at 7:00 p.m. This will be the headlining concert of the U.S. International Guitar Series 20th Anniversary season.

A former student of Manuel Barrueco, Vidovic is arguably one of greatest guitar virtuosos in the world and has become a favorite among audiences. She

was performing publicly by age 7, and internationally by age 11. By age 13 she became the youngest student to attend the prestigious National Musical Academy in Zagreb, where she studied with Professor Istvan Romer. David Williams of the Charleston Gazette identified Vidovic as a “soloist [who] can really grab the audience and draw them in […] with a gorgeous sound and finely pointed rhythm.” Vidovic has already given over one thousand public performances. She has also won an impressive number of prizes and international competitions all over the world, including: the Albert Augustine International Competition in Bath, England; the Fernando Sor competition in Rome; the Francisco Tarrega competition in Benicasim, Spain; the Eurovision Competition for Young Artists; the Mauro Giuliani competition in Italy; and the Printemps de la Guitare in Belgium. She has six CDs (and two DVDs) to her credit an all have drawn high critical accolades.

Later in the season will be featured artists Goran Krivokapić of Montenegro

in May and Geneveive Leitner of the United States in June.

U.S. Classic Guitar is a nonprofit organization that offers a world-class concert series, master classes (free to guitar students studying at universities and conservatories), guitar lessons, and a guitar ensemble class taught by William Jenks, who formerly taught at Marylhurst University as the guitar instructor and ensemble director before its closure in 2018. Jenks, also a recording artist and performer, performs internationally and is regularly invited to teach master classes and judge international guitar competitions around the world. He also operates similar programs for U.S. Classic Guitar in Hawaii and in Los Angeles.

Thursday, April 25 at 7:30 PM

Christ Church Episcopal Parish 1060 Chandler Road, Lake Oswego

Ana Vidovic is one of the most celebrated classical guitarists in the world today and she has over 100 million YouTube video streams. Come see her live in Lake Oswego!

Her solo program will include works by:

Johann Sebastian Bach

Joaquin Rodrigo

Federico Moreno Torroba

Mario Castelvuovo-Tedesco

Mauro Giuliani

Astor Piazzola and more...

Master Class - Wednesday, April 24 at 7:00 PM

PET TIPS FOR

APRIL

National Pet Day is April 11. How do you celebrate a pet holiday, let alone with your pet? Here are a few ideas to spend some quality time with your furry friends!

Pet Treats

This may be an obvious one, but treat your pets! Give them an extra one from the treat bag, look up a recipe for a petfriendly treat to make at home, or find your local pet bakery that makes non-toxic treats especially for animals.

Bath Time

For some animals (and children), bath time is the worst thing ever. But if it was up to them, they would never take a bath! Do them a favor and clean them anyway, soften up that fur and make them smell great again. Dogs are simple to bathe, but depending on your cat (not mine), some cats don’t mind baths either. And give them a treat afterward!

Get a Toy

Photoshoot

Whether you hire a pet photographer, or use your own phone and some fun social media filters, doing a pet photoshoot can be pretty cute and hilarious. While some pets are not into posing, some actually love to vogue for the camera! This is another great excuse to get outside and enjoy the spring weather.

What pet doesn’t love getting a new toy? (Or human for that matter.) Pop into your local pet shop and find a new fun toy for your pet, such as the classic feather and bell wand for your cat, or a squeaky chew toy for your dog. They’ll love to play with you!

Date Night

This may be a bit alternative, but try taking your dog to the tap room or restaurant with outdoor seating to enjoy some oneon-one time. Maybe a food scrap or two will “accidentally” fall from the plate. Your pup won’t mind cleaning up!

Watch a Movie

A movie, you say? Absolutely! Pets are actually very perceptive, and often my dog and cat will cuddle on the couch and watch what I’m watching with peak curiosity. Find a good pet movie, like “Homeward Bound,” “Beethoven,” or “Cats & Dogs,” or an animated movie like “Pets,” “Aristocats,” “100 Dalmatians,” or even the classic “An American Tail: Fievel Goes West.”

APRIL

WHAT’S HAPPENING AT THE LAKE OSWEGO LIBRARY?

STORYWALK “SUGAR IN MILK” AT WEST WALUGA

APRIL 1-30

DURING PARK HOURS

Take a walk through West Waluga Park to read our newest StoryWalk® installation, “Sugar In Milk.”

Written by Thrity Umrigar and illustrated by Khoa Le, “Sugar in Milk” is a contemporary and timely story of a young girl who joins her aunt and uncle in a new land. A story within the story reveals an age old folktale about the power of diversity, acceptance, and tolerance from a gifted storyteller. The StoryWalk® Project was created by Anne Ferguson of Montpelier, VT and developed in collaboration with the Kellogg-Hubbard Library.

For more information contact the Children’s desk at (503) 697-6580

CALL FOR POEMS

MONDAY, APRIL 1, 10:00AM TO TUESDAY, APRIL 30, 7:00PM

ART BAR - CELESTIAL SILHOUETTES

MONDAY, APRIL 1, 10:00AM TO TUESDAY, APRIL 30, 7:00PM

Join us in the library for a Calling all poets ages 18 and older! The Lake Oswego Public Library is celebrating National Poetry Month in April with our third annual call for poetry! All adults are welcome to submit 1-2 original poems to be included in a compilation featured on the Library’s website.

Please limit submissions to 1-2 original and unpublished poems, with each poem not exceeding 80 lines. Submissions will be accepted between April 1-30. During that time, we’ll link to a webform here where you can submit your work electronically. Only .doc and .docx file formats will be accepted.

VISIT THE LAKE OSWEGO PUBLIC LIBRARY SITE TO SEE ALL UPCOMING EVENTS CI.OSWEGO.OR.US/LIBRARY

706 4th Street

Lake Oswego, OR 97034

(503) 636-7628

www.ci.oswego.or.us/library

Explore Your Creative Side - All open hours (lower level)

Explore the shapes and symbols that represent the feast of Ramadan and Eid-Al-Fitr. Appropriate for all ages, the ArtBar is stocked with materials for you to create beautiful silhouettes or tissue paper cutouts of the crescent moon, stars, pomegranates, and mosques. All materials are provided.

For more information, contact the Children’s desk at 503-6976580 or visit the Library’s website at www.lopl.org/kids

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Gratitude Galore

Auction event supports families in need

By Olive Gallagher, Contributing Writer Photos courtesy of Kimmee Auxier

On February 10, a bright winter day that turned into an unusually sunny Saturday afternoon, I turned right into a long allée just off Eilers Road and headed toward a barn complex bustling with activity. From the moment I arrived, I sensed I was in for a very special adventure.

This annual event is for Elijah’s Heart House, an organization created by Jeff and Kimmee Auxier to honor the life of their beloved youngest son, Elijah, who died on Sept. 3, 2017, at age 16, from restrictive cardiomyopathy. The event was off to a fantastic start with 442 tickets sold in advance and the expectation of more than 300 folks attending, including many families with children.

Entering a lovely patio area bedecked with bouquets of artfully arranged fresh flowers, heaters and comfortable seating, I entered the main barn area to find an astonishing array of auction items beautifully displayed on long tables. Along one side of the huge space, there were also tables offering artfully designed and executed Elijah’s Heart House items that would make great gifts for anyone on any occasion. The band was preparing to play for the arriving crowds and delicious aromas from the food trucks parked just south of the barn filled the air. It was evident the exciting afternoon was poised to become another memorable moment.

And it kicked off in fantastic fashion! Fueled by the amazing, almost bionic founder Kimmee Auxier, who seems to have the ability to be in more than one place at any given time, and her dedicated band of volunteers, the afternoon proved to offer something exciting and fun for everyone.

Following a ribbon-cutting for a new playground next to Elijah’s Heart House, guests wandered through the greenhouse and barn, and walked outside to the lake where there was a petting zoo. Darlin’ Donkeys wandered the premises

throughout the event and finally converged at the entry, meanwhile children planted seeds in the greenhouse. The live auction featured the professional talent of auctioneer Patrick Siver. Fantastic foods — included in the $25 ticket — were served. Only bar items from Archer Vineyard, Flyboy Brewery and Shaker & Salt cocktails required payment — and those three vendors generously donated 50% of their day’s earnings back to Elijah’s Heart House.

This year, instead of a silent auction, guests could bid on items, all of which were tastefully photographed and packaged by volunteer Becky Rodriguez, either in the online auction prior to the event or during the live auction that afternoon.

One special aspect of the day was the unique chance for parents to bring their children to a deeply personal event that allowed them to connect philanthropy and the loving act of giving back with a real boy who lived and was, once upon a time, just like them. And after meeting Kimmee, his mom, that connection became even more vibrant, as there’s no question that there’s a beating, loving heart behind every detail of the Elijah J. Auxier Foundation and the day.

That’s why there’s no riddle as to why this remarkable event continues to grow exponentially every year. The first year involved 100 people, mostly friends and family, who came to honor Elijah’s memory and the establishment of the house. That event brought in approximately $100,000. The second year, with more than 200 people attending, it brought in $125,000. This year, while the total is not yet set in stone, it’s projected that the event will bring in more than $150,000 with 442 tickets sold and more than 300 folks attending.

Keep your eyes on the website, www.elijahshearthouse.org, for updates on time and place for next year’s event. With each year’s continuing growth and success, there are bound to be even more exciting changes in 2025, and you and your family don’t want to miss out on all the exciting and heartwarming fun of this special day!

For more information, please go to the website at www. elijahshearthouse.org.

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Brown Sugar-Cinnamon Filling and Icing

Combine ½ cup brown sugar, 2 teaspoons cinnamon, 2 tablespoons melted salted butter and 1 tablespoon flour. Scoop a tablespoon onto pastry. For icing, add ½ teaspoon cinnamon a nd 1/4 teaspoon brown sugar to icing ingredients.

Homemade Toaster Pastries

Breakfast classic worthy of dessert Ingredients

1 package rolled pie crust (2 count)

1 cup jam or preserves

1 large egg

1 cup powdered sugar

2–3 tablespoons milk or cream

½ teaspoon vanilla Directions

 Preheat oven to 400°F.  Lay sheet of parchment paper on baking sheet. Set aside. On a different sheet of parchment, unroll the crusts. Cut as many rectangles (approximately 3 by 5 inches) as you can from each crust — use an index card as a guide. Knead together remaining crusts and roll out into another large, thin piece (just under ¼ inches). Cut remaining rectangles.  Beat egg in small bowl. Lay out 8 rectangles on parchment-lined baking sheet, adding 1 tablespoon of desired jam to each. Brush edges with egg wash. Then place another rectangle on top of rectangle with jam. Gently pinch edges to seal. Use fork to crimp edges. Poke some holes in top of pop tarts. Brush entire tops, including edges, with egg wash. Continue with rest of pop tarts.  Bake 12 to 15 minutes, or until golden brown. Allow pop tarts to cool.  Whisk together powdered sugar, milk or cream, and vanilla. Spread over each pop tart. Top with sprinkles or whatever you desire!

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The Rise of AI-Generated Images in Fashion

A Double-Edged Sword

By Kerry Yu, Fashion Consultant

Have you noticed the rising popularity of AIgenerated images in fashion magazines and online platforms lately? They’re incredibly innovative and captivating, aren’t they? In the world of AI, there’s a fascinating process called “training the face,” where AI learns to create lifelike human faces by analyzing numerous images and adjusting its parameters accordingly.

But here’s where it gets interesting: photographers have diverse opinions about these AI-generated images. Some worry that they might overshadow the uniqueness of traditional photography, while others view AI as a valuable tool to enhance their skills. It can assist in various ways, such as improving image quality and sparking fresh creative ideas.

However, there’s a downside to this technological advancement. Ethical concerns arise, especially regarding ownership and authenticity of AI-generated images. Determining the rightful owner of these images can be complex, leading to disputes. Additionally, not every AIgenerated image captures the depth and emotion of humanmade art, raising questions about its artistic value.

Moreover, there’s a concern that over-reliance on AI could hinder human creativity and skills. If AI learns from biased or inaccurate data, it may perpetuate harmful stereotypes in the images it produces. Furthermore, there’s the unsettling possibility of malicious individuals misusing AI to create fake images or spread misinformation.

While AI-generated images offer undeniable benefits in terms of efficiency and innovation, they also present significant challenges. We must approach their use with caution, considering issues of fairness, quality and safety. It’s a topic that warrants thoughtful discussion and reflection.

On a personal note, I find myself intrigued by the idea of having AI-generated images created for me by a photographer in New York. The convenience and potential for creativity are undeniable. However, can these images truly capture the essence of “me”?

What are your thoughts on AI images in fashion? I’m eager to hear your opinions! Please feel free to share them with me at kerryyu@mac.com. Let’s continue this conversation and delve deeper into the complexities of AI in fashion together.

AI Images by E. Fran Hyman Instagram: @ai_fashion_photos