McMinnville Community Advantage Magazine April 2025 by Active Media Publishing Group

MCMINNVILLE

Enjoy Living in Your Body Again.

• Are you tired of feeling like just a number in the healthcare system?

• Frustrated with rushed appointments that leave your questions unanswered?

● Are you tired of feeling like just a number in the healthcare system?

• Told “there’s nothing wrong” when you know something doesn’t feel right?

• Managing symptoms endlessly without finding real, lasting solutions?

● Frustrated with rushed appointments that leave your questions unanswered?

● Told “there’s nothing wrong” when you know something doesn’t feel right?

● Managing symptoms endlessly without finding real, lasting solutions?

Functional medicine and acupuncture offer a transformative way to take back your health. These therapies don’t just manage symptoms—they uncover and address the root causes of your concerns, empowering your body to do what it is designed to do - HEAL. With an approach that bridges cutting-edge science and personalized care, you can unlock a whole new level of well-being.

Whether you’re managing chronic pain, recovering from illness, or supporting healthy aging for a longer, more vibrant life, this is the ultimate self-care investment. It’s not just about avoiding symptoms—it’s about optimizing your health so you can thrive. If you’re ready to break free from the limits of conventional care, now is the time to discover the life-changing benefits of this holistic, whole-systems approach. Your future self will thank you.

Whether you’re managing chronic pain, recovering from illness or supporting healthy aging for a longer, more vibrant life, this is the ultimate self-care investment. It’s not just about avoiding symptoms—it’s about optimizing your health so you can thrive. If you’re ready to break free from the limits of conventional care, now is the time to discover the life-changing benefits of this holistic, whole-systems approach. Your future self will thank you. If you’re ready to feel

If you’re ready to feel better, book an appointment today!

today!

APR/MAY 2025

Published by

Active Media Publishing Group

PO Box 672, Aurora, OR 97002

info@ActiveMediaUSA.com

503.825.2111

ADMINISTRATION

Matthew Nelson, Publisher Catrina Nelson, CFO

Tara Weidman, Executive Assistant

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PRODUCTION

Jeremy Okai Davis, Art Director

Donovan Darling, Creative Project Manager

Brittany Jungenberg, Director of Marketing

Kate Astle, Copyeditor

Kaity VanHoose, Social Media Manager

Justin Andress, Communications Manager

GRAPHIC DESIGN

Hilary Berg Sean Carver

Dani DeGraw Brittany Jungenberg

Morgan King Justin Nelson

Shawn Schmidt Kaity VanHoose

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Justin Andress Patti Jo Brooks

Angie Helvey Lucas Holmgren

Robert Matsumura Dennis McNabb

Kelly Romo Gretchen Van Lente

Ty Walker Sunniva Weidman Kerry Yu

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

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Angie Helvey Brittany Jungenberg

Malaina Kinne Lisa Kuhlman

MJ Media Productions Henry Schifter Hayley Starkey

ADVERTISING SPECIALISTS

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Shelley Zeman Tina Toney

Darren Dwyer

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McMinnville

A Call to Action for Our Planet

The

ongoing challenge of sustainability and climate action

By Robert Matsumura, Active Media

Every year on April 22nd, millions of people around the world celebrate Earth Day, a day commemorating environmental protection and raising awareness about our planet’s well-being. But how did Earth Day come about? The story of Earth Day is both fascinating and inspiring, a testament to how a collective push for change can have a lasting impact.

The Spark of the Movement Earth Day actually dates back to the late 1960s when environmental concerns swelled across the United States. Issues of water pollution, air quality, pesticide use, and the loss of wildlife were looming large in the public consciousness. Rachel Carson’s 1962 book Silent Spring had already brought to light the dangers of pesticides, and a growing concern for the environment was beginning to take root.

It wasn’t until 1969, however, that the idea of Earth Day began to form. Senator Gaylord Nelson from Wisconsin — alarmed by the lack of political attention to environmental issues —vowed to take action. He envisioned a nationwide teach-in focused on the environment to engage the public and pressure politicians to embrace the environmental cause. Nelson drew inspiration in part from the student protests of the 1960s, which demonstrated how grassroots movements could galvanize the public and bring about real change.

The First Earth Day: A Massive Success

Earth Day was born on April 22, 1970. Nelson, with the assistance of activist Dennis Hayes, mobilized an astonishing 20 million Americans across the country — about 10 percent of the U.S. population at the time — who came together in rallies, teach-ins, and protests. The movement was not just about protesting, but about generating a dialogue around the need for environmental regulation and conservation.

The first Earth Day was a monumental success. People from all walks of life came together, including students, teachers, scientists, and activists. For the first time, environmental issues were discussed on a grand scale, clearly showing that protecting the Earth was no longer a niche concern but one that deserved national attention.

The Birth of Environmental Legislation

The success of Earth Day extended far beyond rallies, however. Significant changes in U.S. policy resulted from this event. In the wake of the first Earth Day, Congress passed major environmental legislation, including the Clean Air Act, the Clean Water Act, and the Endangered Species Act. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) was also created in 1970. It was clear that public opinion had shifted, and lawmakers took notice.

Earth Day Goes Global

Although Earth Day was born in the United States, its message resonated around the world. In 1990, Earth Day went international, with 200 million people in over 140 countries participating. Since then, Earth Day has continued to grow. Events now take place in countries across the globe, with the Earth Day Network actively coordinating the activities.

A Day for Action and Reflection

Today, Earth Day is more relevant than ever. As the planet grapples with climate change, deforestation, and diminishing biodiversity, Earth Day is a reminder that everyone has a role to play in protecting our environment.

So this April 22nd, whether you’re planting a tree, cleaning up a local park, or simply recycling a plastic container, remember that Earth Day is a day to celebrate the planet we all share, ensuring that it continues to be a healthy and enjoyable place for generations to come!

MR. BRIAN BIXLER

From the Moon to McMinnville

Teacher helping shape future innovators

By Kelly Romo, Active Media

Brian Bixler has spent 19 years teaching in the McMinnville School District, continuing a family tradition that dates back to the 1970s. His father and sister also taught in McMinnville, while his mother taught in Amity, and his twin brother works as the tech director in Dayton School District. Education runs deep in the Bixler family, and his passion for teaching science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) has brought hands-on learning opportunities to countless students.

Rotating between schools in McMinnville on a trimesterstyle schedule, Mr. Bixler spends 12 to 13 weeks at a school, visiting two schools each week. This allows him to bring unique learning experiences to students across the district. His schedule provides opportunities to a wide range of students, and his ability to secure grants has helped him introduce innovative STEM projects. Students engage with tools like Ozobot robots, Makey Makey circuit boards, and Scratch

programming to creatively explore science and technology.

Willamette Elementary is one of the schools in his rotation and home to a rare Artemis Moon Tree. NASA’s Artemis I mission carried tree seeds to promote science and conservation education and to inspire the next generation of explorers. The seeds were taken on the Orion spacecraft during its uncrewed flight around the moon in 2022. The tree at Willamette represents a new era of lunar exploration that followed the tradition of the Apollo 14 Moon Trees planted across the country in the 1970s. Securing a Moon Tree for McMinnville was a long shot, as recipients include universities, national parks, and government institutions. Mr. Bixler feels the school’s student-led renaming process and a strong focus on STEM education made the difference.

Mr. Bixler incorporates the Moon Tree into STEM lessons, linking it to ongoing space missions. He provides students with updates on NASA projects, such as the upcoming Artemis II mission and plans for a lunar base at the moon’s south

pole. His students explore space-related concepts, including Europa’s potential for life and the study of an all-metal asteroid. Mr. Bixler fosters curiosity by encouraging students to seek knowledge rather than passively consume information.

Students also help care for the Moon Tree, with Willamette’s gardening club assisting in its maintenance. The tree symbolizes discovery and perseverance, reminding students that small beginnings can lead to great achievements. Mr. Bixler’s STEM classes inspire future scientists, engineers, and explorers through his interactive lessons and hands-on experiences that are exciting and accessible to all.

Chemeketa Graduates: The Backbone of Our Community

From the paramedics saving lives to the dental assistants ensuring your brightest smile, Chemeketa Community College graduates are everywhere, making a difference.

They are the auto mechanics keeping you on the road, the electricians powering your homes and businesses, and the skilled professionals driving our local economy forward.

Our community depends on their expertise, and so do local employers. At Chemeketa, we provide the training and hands-on experience needed to build a healthy, strong, and thriving community.

Will you be among our next group of graduates?

Chemeketa Community College

Building Careers, Strengthening Communities.

Explore our diverse career education pathways in healthcare, skilled trades, technology, and beyond. Your future starts here. Visit go.chemeketa.edu/pathways

Follow the Hops

Yamhill County’s farm-to-table beer destination

By Angie Helvey, Active Media

Sipping a frothy brew amidst fields of hops is the ultimate farm-to-table experience when it comes to beer, and that’s the end goal at Root & Rye Hop Farm, Carlton’s newest hop haven and brewery. Nestled amidst the tranquil foothills of the Willamette Valley, it’s the perfect place to hang out with the hops and indulge in the region’s finest craft beer creations!

The 67-acre picturesque property only just became a brewery in 2019, and it began as the Crowing Hen, owned by Ryan and Michelle Rhea. Powerhouse female business owner Shelly Bigley bought the farm in November last year and rebranded the operation to Root & Rye in 2025. “It’s a nicely appointed brewery — they did a fantastic job,” says Shelly. “They brought their personal touches, and we’ve been building on the foundation they left behind — and taking it to the next level.”

With a lengthy background in the culinary and beer industries, Shelly was uniquely poised to take over the destination farm and brewery. She and her husband Andy started in the pizza business but later became pioneers in the Pacific Northwest craft brewery scene, first opening

the Old Market Pub & Brewery in Portland in 1994, followed by The Broadway Grill & Brewery in 2006. Their two daughters, Sarah and Savannah, spent their young lives in the restaurant business. Sadly, Andy passed away in 2021, and starting Root & Rye is part of Shelly’s goal to forge ahead in his honor. “We had always talked about doing a farm-to-table concept, so when I saw the farm was for sale, it felt like a natural expansion to the business.”

The previous property owners had planted 15 acres of hops and trellised one — hop plants can grow up to 20 feet high and need something to climb on — so Shelly’s first priority was to trellis the remaining acres with 17 to 21-foot posts and horizontal wires. The team is beyond excited to see the whole field transform into a sea of green hops this spring and summer! The current varieties are Comet, Crystal, Cascade, Centennial, Triumph, Rainier, Mt. Hood and Chinook.

Shelly also brought her head brewer, the talented Bobby Stevens, along on her new venture. Root & Rye is a five-barrel system, allowing more experimentation than the 15-barrels at Old Market Pub. “I’ve been trying various yeast strains, techniques, and recipe development at OMP,” Bobby explains, “so I’m excited to apply what I’ve learned to Root & Rye in an elevated manner.” He’s focusing on lagers and, of course, hops — hazy IPAs, cold IPAs, West Coast IPAs, and more subtle varieties like hop water and seltzer. “I want to learn more about how hops grow and what conditions create specific aromas and flavor profiles.”

Bobby has taken over creating new and classic brews at the farm. The first available beers are a hazy IPA featuring Galaxy, Idaho 7, and Centennial hops; a Mexican lager featuring Motueka hops — known for their fresh lime flavor and aroma — and a cold IPA highlighting Nelson Sauvin hops and a blackberry, plus a black currant and black cherry kettle sour. The rustic on-site tasting room with vintage cowgirl decor has family-friendly indoor and outdoor seating with firepits,

cornhole and room for your furry friends. Inside are stylish high-tops and big screen TVs, and behind the bar customers can view Bobby’s brewing prowess. A menu of farm-fresh snacks is available to pair with your beer, including the mouth-watering pizza Shelly’s family has made famous for over 30 years!

With 52 acres of farm apart from the hops, Shelly and her team are dreaming up spectacular plans for the property. Guests can meander down the paths

between the hops with a cold brew in hand and rest on a bench to enjoy magical views of the lake behind the barn, the trappist monastery next door and groves of greenery. “My daughters are helping me — they’re super creative — and we’re planning lots of fun on-farm events like Meet the Brewer and artisan fairs with local makers,” Shelly says. An exclusive Brewery Club membership option is in the works, and they’ve also been partnering with restaurants in town to make their brews more widely available.

The brewery came with a regular customer base that’s constantly growing, and there’s been a great response to the changes so far. Root & Rye has kept a few Crowing Hen beers on tap and will continue to do so at customer request. The team is enjoying getting to know the local community. “I appreciate how welcoming everyone has been. People are always willing to help,” says Shelly. This burgeoning hop farm is a beautiful spot to relax and feel completely away from the city while experiencing the art of beermaking firsthand. “We want to shed light on the process of beer making for those unfamiliar with it, from growing hops to harvesting to brewing. It’s going to be fun!”

Root & Rye Hop Farm & Brewery is located at 10282 Ne Abbey Rd. in Carlton. Please give them a call at 971-501-8584 or visit their website at www.rootnrye.com

Puzzlin’ for Our Planet

Every day is Earth Day

ACROSS

6 Species not native to an ecosystem.

8 Small, round, flat legumes often considered the most sustainable food.

9 Planned management of a natural resource to prevent destruction.

12 Most commonly littered item in the world. (Two words)

13 National Park (established 1872) famous for its geysers.

15 Process of collecting, processing and reusing materials that would otherwise be discarded as waste.

16 World’s most recycled material.

18 Close to 8 million metric tons of _______ go into the ocean annually.

19 Types include cascade, horsetail, plunge and tiered.

21 Renewable energy source harnessed through turbines.

22 Most of Earth’s breathable air comes from this body of water.

23 Endangered bird known for its colorful feathers and large beak.

DOWN

4 In 2011, 28 million trees were planted in this Mideastern country for Earth Day’s “Plant Trees, Not Bombs” campaign.

5 Term for variety of life on Earth.

16 The _______ Rainforest produces 20% of the planet’s oxygen.

17 The Javan _______ (abbreviated) is considered the most endangered animal. The large mammal has a distinctive horn (or two) on its snout.

7 Founder of Earth Day was a senator from this “cheesy” Midwest state.

1 Brand first to turn plastic waste into clothing; also name of geographical region in South America.

2 The Great Pacific _______ Patch is a massive accumulation of marine debris, primarily plastic.

3 The earth is _______ years old.

10 Young activist _______ Thunberg took a zero-carbon voyage from Europe to the U.S. to raise awareness of climate change.

11 Energy created from Earth’s heat.

14 Type of farming that does not use synthetic chemicals.

20 Blazing source of renewable energy using solar panels.

ACROSS: 6. Invasive. 8 Lentils. 9. Conservation.

12. Cigarette Butts. 13. Yellowstone. 15. Recycling.

16. Aluminum. 18. Plastic. 19. Waterfalls. 21. Wind. 22. Ocean. 23 Toucan. DOWN: 1. Patagonia.

Biodiversity.

Hope Grows Here

Intervening in times of chaos

By Patti Jo Brooks, Active Media

Achild needs help. They’re in an abusive situation and someone needs to intervene. Juliette’s House Child Abuse Intervention Center was founded by local professionals and community leaders to help minimize the trauma suffered by children of abuse and neglect. Taking referrals from law enforcement, child protective services and doctors, Juliette’s House assesses and evaluates a child’s state of physical and emotional well-being to determine which services will best help the child and keep them safe, and then they create a treatment plan.

Juliette’s House is a place of hope. Working with families, they provide support and healing not only for children, but also for adults who have suffered from child abuse, realizing that untreated abuse is an open wound the child carries for the rest of their lives. In times of uncertainty and chaos when adults have reached their breaking point and tempers snap or violence is deliberately inflicted, at the end of that is often a child. “Regardless of the issue, whether it’s the economy, conflict or whatever it may be, at the end of the line is a child that is vulnerable. And frequently, in the midst of this chaos, we forget about the impact on that very vulnerable child,” relates Russell Mark, CEO and President of Juliette’s House, who will be celebrating 10 years working for the organization this October.

Through their forensic and medical assessment program, Juliette’s House may be involved in up to 300 cases a year. Highly-trained medical and social-work professionals in children’s trauma answer questions, complete assessments and provide therapy as needed without the recipient having to retell their story and relive their trauma a number of times. “Within a matter of days to a couple of weeks, we would be helping them to heal and make sense of the chaos in their lives,” Mark points out.

Implementing a prevention education program 26 years ago, young school children were taught to understand what was and was not a healthy environment, and how to protect themselves and each other. That program has now grown to include preschoolers through adults by focusing on ageappropriate elements. Last year over 7,000 children and adults were educated through the program in Yamhill County alone.

Juliette’s House is thankful for the support of the community and sponsorships by businesses such as Encore Home Furnishings, as well as all individual donations and in-kind gifts. They are especially appreciative of generous grants received from Austin Family Foundation, Ford Family Foundation, The Roundhouse Foundation, and Yamhill Community Care, who are among their chief supporters

Sponsors for the 30th Anniversary of Celebrate the Children Annual Dinner & Auction are still needed. The event will take place at Abbey Road Farm in Carlton, Oregon, April 25, 2025, with doors opening at 5:00 p.m. Visit Juliette’s House website “Support Us” and select “Natl Child Abuse Prevention Month” to learn more.

Juliette’s House is located at 1075 SW Cedarwood Ave. in McMinnville. Phone (503)435-1550. Email general questions to info@julietteshouse.org or for questions regarding assessments or resources email intake@julietteshouse.org. For more information visit www.julietteshouse.org.

Beam Me Up, Mac!

Planet’s second largest UFO fest returns

merch, vendor booths, and, best of all, a parade that proves Portland isn’t the only city that knows how to be weird.

By David Bates & Donovan Darling, Active Media

In Yamhill County, the town of McMinnville lays claim to one of the most celebrated UFO sightings in modern history — the Trent family farm photos, which were snapped when Paul Trent saw a “disc” flying over his property in 1950. Even the Condon Report — which was commissioned nearly two decades later to give the U.S. Air Force an excuse for closing Project Blue Book, their UFO investigation office — admitted the photos’ legitimacy. The UFO captured by the McMinnville farmer appeared “to be consistent with the assertion that an extraordinary flying object … flew within sight of two witnesses.”

Since 1999, McMinnville has celebrated UFOs and aliens with the second-largest festival in the country. This year, McMenamins’ Annual UFO Festival will be held in downtown McMinnville and centered at the Oregon Hotel on Friday & Saturday, May 16-17. It’s got something for everyone: UFO experts and abductee speakers, live music, a costume contest and alien

The festival was conceived in 1999 to mark the 50-year anniversary of the Trent sighting, and from humble beginnings it has since grown into a significant cultural event appealing to those with a casual or passing interest in UFOs, but also to the more serious researchers and students of the phenomenon. And thanks to developments in the last few years, the latter group of researchers is growing.

The Pentagon, in the now-famous 2023 Congressional hearing, admitted the existence of UAPs (unidentified aerial phenomena) and their investigation into them, but the Pentagon did not confirm they are of extraterrestrial origin. Since then, a growing number of government officials and military pilots have gone on record to confirm that yes, UFOs are real, they don’t appear to be Earthmade, and we really don’t know what they are otherwise.

This year’s UFO Festival in McMinnville will play out against a backdrop of heightened interest in government

and the media, and the recently created office to investigate UAPs (aka UFOs), the Pentagon’s All-domain Anomaly Resolution Office (AARO).

We Do With You

There’s no better time, or place, to check out the UFO scene. The headquarters for the festival is McMenamins Hotel Oregon, 310 N.E. Evans Street in McMinnville, while speakers will appear there and at the Community Center a couple blocks north at 600 N.E. Evans Street. Panels and lectures are ticketed, but the pet costume party, parade and other events are free. For more information, visit www.ufofest.com.

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Oregon’s First Black Seafarer

A Black sailor in early American exploration

By Oregon Black Pioneers

Markus Lopeus is one of the earliest-known people of African descent to set foot in Oregon. Lopeus was a native of Cape Verde, a volcanic archipelago located 400 miles west of the North African mainland. The Portuguese discovered the islands in the 15th century and began to establish a permanent presence there. Enslaved Africans made up the majority of the islands’ population – but there was also a population of free Africans, including the Lopeus family.

In 1787, American ship captain Robert Gray set off from Boston in the sloop Lady Washington for his first voyage to the Pacific Northwest. Gray, along with Captain John Kendrick of the brig Columbia, were bound for the Pacific Northwest in search of sea otter pelts to exchange in China for tea, silk, spices, and porcelain.

When the Lady Washington stopped in Cape Verde for water and supplies, Markus Lopeus volunteered to join the ship’s crew. Lopeus served as the ship’s cabin boy, suggesting he was a teenager or a young man. Despite his age, Lopeus had to participate in regular duties alongside the rest of the 12-14 member crew. According to 3rd mate Robert Haswell, Lopeus was cheerful, eager to help and well-liked by everyone aboard.

Photo by Rick Horn

In 1788, Lady Washington became the first American ship to make landfall on the Pacific coast. That August, the vessel reached Tillamook Bay, where they were greeted by members of a local Native village. The crew eagerly traded with the villagers on the beach.

Two days later, Lopeus was on shore cutting grass to feed the ship’s livestock. When he set down his cutlass, a Native man walked off with it. Lopeus chased after the man and grabbed him, which got the attention of the villagers. Several men surrounded Lopeus and stabbed him to death. Captain Gray’s crew quickly fled the beach and returned to their ship, firing their guns as they sailed away.

Today Markus Lopeus is remembered for his participation in the first American expedition to Oregon, and for being the first Black person to die in Oregon. His story demonstrates how Black people have been part of Oregon’s multiracial history from the earliest days.

Oregon Black Pioneers is Oregon’s only historical society dedicated to preserving and presenting the experiences of African Americans statewide. To learn more, and to support this nonprofit, visit oregonblackpioneers.org.

©Oregon Black Pioneers, 2025

A perfect movie for springtime, this is an adventurous modern retelling of Beatrix Potter’s beloved classic, full of energy and sweet humor.

Young love, springtime in high school, and prom. A loose, modern adaptation of Shakespeare’s comedy “Taming of the Shrew,” 10 Things is an iconic ’90s teen rom-com.

The story follows the mischievous Peter Rabbit as he and his rabbit siblings wage a rivalry with Thomas McGregor for control of their country garden. With gorgeous animation, a charming English countryside, and a story full of slapstick comedy, the movie captures the air of renewal and adventure that defines spring. Unlike the original books, where old Farmer McGregor is the rabbits’ main adversary, this movie introduces Thomas McGregor, his great-nephew. A meticulous cityslicker from London, Thomas inherits his late uncle’s farm and initially wants to sell it — until he discovers Peter and his family invading the garden. What follows is a ridiculous rivalry between Thomas and the rabbits. The movie offers a surprisingly heartfelt journey about family, friendship, and learning from your mistakes. Starring James Corden, Rose Byrne, Domhnall Gleeson, Margot Robbie, Daisy Ridley, and Elizabeth Debicki. Rated PG for some rude humor and action.

Few movies capture spring quite like The Sound of Music. The story follows Maria, a free-spirited postulant (woman training to be a nun), who is sent to be the governess for seven von Trapp children. Through music, kindness, and an unshakable zest for life, Maria breathes new life into the family — just as Austria faces the impending rise of the Nazi regime. The stunning outdoor cinematography, from the lush meadows to the blossoming romance between Maria and the Captain, makes the movie feel as fresh and invigorating as spring itself. And this is more than just a picturesque musical — as the von Trapps face difficult choices under Nazi occupation, their courage and devotion to each other creates a powerful message of hope and resilience. The movie somehow blends joy, romance, and suspense, making it an unforgettable experience. Starring Julie Andrews, Christopher Plummer, Eleanor Parker, Richard Haydn, and Peggy Wood. Rated G, but please note themes of Nazi occupation, strict parenting, traditional gender roles, and religious life.

The story follows Kat, the “shrew” (a smart, independent, rebellious woman) and her sister Bianca. Bianca wants to date but can’t until Kat does. Cameron, a new student, falls in love with Bianca but she wants to date Joey, a rich bad boy. So Cameron schemes with his friend Michael: convince Joey to pay moody outcast Patrick Verona to date Kat, thus allowing Joey to date Bianca (and unofficially allowing Cameron to date Bianca eventually). Like most rom-coms, there’s a relationship reversal — Patrick really falls for Kat, Bianca realizes that Joey is a jerk and Cameron is actually great. However, Kat soon discovers the scheme and is heartbroken. But in true rom-com fashion, there’s a dramatic reconciliation where Kat confesses her feelings for Patrick as well as the 10 things she hates about him. Starring Julia Stiles, Larisa Oleynik, Joseph GordonLevitt, Heath Ledger, and more. Rated PG-13 for crude humor, brief strong language, and some sexual references.

Peter Rabbit (2018)

The Sound of Music (1965) 10 Things I Hate About You (1999)

CHEMEKETA BOND

Career & Technical Education Bond Information (Measure 24-513)

On May 20th, voters will have the opportunity to consider a ballot measure which would fund an expansion of Career and Technical Education-CTE programs, teaching & learning spaces, campus safety, and building infrastructure maintenance.

If passed, this bond will retain the expiring Chemeketa Community College Bond Rate of $.27/$1,000 of assessed property value.

See what projects the bond will fund at go.chemeketa. edu/bond or scan this QR code.

OT Doc Program Integrates Anatomage Tech

Technology transforms real anatomy and physiology into digital cadavers

By Maureen Brakke, Western Oregon University

Western Oregon University is redefining the educational landscape for aspiring healthcare professionals by integrating Anatomage technology into its Occupational Therapy Doctorate program. With the addition of two state-of-the-art Anatomage tables, students now have unparalleled opportunities to explore human anatomy through advanced real digitized cadavers.

The Anatomage bodies, built from real frozen cadaveric slices, provide ultra-high-definition, life-size representations of human anatomy, physiology, and pathology. These innovative resources feature detailed anatomical variations, including male and female anatomy, pregnancy, and geriatric anatomy, offering students a comprehensive understanding of the human body in a dynamic and interactive setting.

“Utilizing Anatomage technology aligns with our commitment to providing high-quality education,” said Sean Roush, OTD, OTR/L, FAOTA, director of the Occupational Therapy program. “This approach not only enhances the learning experience but also prepares our students to excel in their future careers. They are gaining hands-on learning opportunities with the latest technology in the field, which is essential for their success.”

The use of Anatomage tables also addresses the logistical challenges and costs associated with housing and maintaining real human cadavers. Students can engage with the material in a flexible and accessible manner, ensuring they receive the same quality of education without the barriers traditionally faced in anatomy courses.

“As a new instructor in the Occupational Therapy program, I have had an amazing opportunity to utilize the Anatomage tables for our anatomy and neuroscience courses,” shared Brianne Salvati, OTD, OTR/L, ECHM. “The tables offer a diverse range of tools and teaching methods to meet the needs of our students. I can create my own presets for students to access and study on their own time and even use the tables for quizzes.”

Salvati emphasizes that, unlike traditional cadaver labs, the Anatomage system is low maintenance, requiring no chemicals

or extensive equipment management. This allows students to virtually dissect and isolate structures with ease, restoring them at the touch of a button. The flexibility of the system enables more open-lab opportunities without the need for preservation training. Students can rotate views, zoom in, and color-coordinate structures for enhanced visibility, observing actual spinal tracts and blood vessels to understand their functions. “By simply tapping on a muscle, students receive detailed information on its origin, insertion, nerve innervation, and action, along with movement simulations of agonist and antagonist muscle groups,” Salvati explained.

Western’s emphasis on innovative technologies reflects its dedication to equipping students with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in the rapidly evolving healthcare landscape. Graduates of the Occupational Therapy Doctorate program will not only leave with a deep understanding of anatomy but also with the confidence to apply this knowledge in real-world settings.

With this integration of Anatomage technology, Western is truly setting a new standard in healthcare education, preparing students for success in their future careers.

The Occupational Therapy Doctorate program is in the Center for Graduate Studies in downtown Salem, providing a collaborative space for graduate students to study, meet with peers, and work on group projects. This dedicated facility is designed to foster community and support academic success.

For more information about the Occupational Therapy Doctorate program, visit graduate.wou.edu/occupationaltherapy-doctorate.

Western Oregon University is featured in The College Tour, an award-winning Amazon Prime TV series.

Pronto & Perfect Pronto & Perfect Pronto & How a

small-town snack became an American icon

By Robert Matsumura, Active Media

W W When you think of classic fair food, what comes to mind? Perhaps it’s cotton candy, funnel cakes, or caramel apples. For many Americans, the ultimate fair staple is the corn dog. And when it comes to corn dogs, one name stands out in the annals of fried food history: the Pronto Pup.

Rainy Start in Rockaway Beach

juicy hot dog encased in a crispy, fried shell was irresistible!

Birth of a

Franchise

While you might think the Pronto Pup’s origins trace back to the bustling state fairs of Texas or Minnesota, it is the town of Rockaway on the Oregon Coast that claims the distinction. In the late 1930s George and Versa Boyington, a couple who operated a hot dog stand, found themselves at the mercy of Oregon’s notoriously wet weather. The rain would soak the buns, leaving them with soggy sandwiches and frustrated customers. Undeterred, George experimented with dipping hot dogs into a thick batter made from flour and frying them. The result? A crispy, golden, portable treat that was rain resistant — the perfect snack for the Pacific Northwest’s soggy unpredictable weather.

What’s in a Name?

The Boyingtons desired a name that conveyed both the speed and convenience of their new invention.

After a brainstorming session they landed on “Pronto Pup,” evoking the quickness of serving and eating

More than just inventors, the Boyingtons were also savvy entrepreneurs. Recognizing the potential of their invention, they franchised the Pronto Pup, selling the equipment and batter mix to aspiring vendors across the country. By the 1950s, Pronto Pups had become a staple at fairs, carnivals and drive-ins nationwide.

Corn Dog vs. Pronto Pup?

The difference resides in the batter. While corn dogs are typically made with a cornmeal-based batter, Pronto Pups use a flour-based batter. The result is the Pronto Pup has a lighter, more pancake-like texture, versus its cornbread-coated cousin.

Expanding Pronto Pup’s Reach

As fairs and festivals exploded in popularity throughout the mid-20th century, so too did the Pronto Pup. Its portability and affordability made it a perfect fit for the evolving American lifestyle. Drive-ins, a cultural hallmark of the

1950s, also embraced the Pronto Pup, offering it on their menus alongside burgers and shakes.

The Boyingtons continued to refine their business model, focusing on quality and consistency. Vendors were required to use the official Pronto Pup batter mix, ensuring that every Pronto Pup, whether sold in Oregon or Omaha, tasted just right. This commitment to quality also helped establish the Pronto Pup’s reputation as a consistent and delicious snack.

Science of the Perfect Pup

Regional Rivalries and Imitators

Of course, with success came competition. The Pronto Pup’s rise to fame spurred the creation of similar snacks across the country, most notably the corn dog. While many corn dog enthusiasts assert that the cornmeal batter adds a unique flavor, Pronto Pup loyalists insist that nothing beats the original flour-based recipe.

In Minnesota, the Pronto Pup’s popularity inspired fierce loyalty. At the Minnesota State Fair, an event that draws millions of visitors each year, Pronto Pups are sold at numerous stands and remain one of the fair’s most iconic treats. For many Minnesotans, the Pronto Pup isn’t just

What’s the Pronto Pup’s secret? What makes it so delicious? It’s all about the balance of flavors and textures. The hot dog provides a savory, juicy center, while the batter delivers a crispy, slightly sweet coating. When fried to perfection, the Pronto Pup achieves a delectable contrast that’s difficult to resist. Temperature and timing are critical in the frying process. The oil needs to be hot enough to cook the batter quickly without overcooking the hot dog. Too low a temperature, and the batter becomes greasy; too high, and it burns. Experienced vendors know that achieving the perfect golden brown color demands practice and precision.

Pronto Pup in Pop Culture

American pop culture has embraced the Pronto Pup. It has been the star of food documentaries, fairground scenes in movies, even the occasional viral video. Rockaway Beach, the birthplace of the Pronto Pup, continues to honor its culinary legacy. Visitors to the town can stop by the original Pronto Pup stand, which operates to this day, and taste the Oregon classic that became a national favorite.

A Modern Take on a Classic

In recent years, food enthusiasts and vendors have begun customizing the Pronto Pup. Gourmet versions featuring artisan sausages, exotic spices, and unique dipping sauces have appeared at upscale food festivals and trendy

George and Versa Boyington

restaurants. However, even with these fancy variations, the core essence of the Pronto Pup — a simple, satisfying snack — remains the same.

Pronto

Pup Legacy

Today, the Pronto Pup is a cultural icon, particularly in the Midwest and Pacific Northwest. In Rockaway Beach, the Boyingtons’ creation is celebrated annually at the Pronto Pup Festival. Beyond nostalgia, the Pronto Pup’s story is a testament to the spirit of innovation. It’s a reminder that sometimes the best ideas come in response to the simplest of problems — and thinking outside the (soggy) bun.

The next time you’re enjoying a Pronto Pup, or even a corn dog, remember the Boyingtons, Rockaway Beach and the crispy creation that started it all. Whether you prefer yours with ketchup, mustard, or both, there’s no denying the enduring appeal of this quintessential American treat!

D“My name is Landon Haney, and I am 75 years old. I have had sinus problems off and on since I was a teenager. The most recent one started in 2011. The nose was really, completely plugged off and I heard about Dr. Siegfried. I knew him from past things he had done for me and always helped me, so I called up and came in. He started the treatments on me, and I have had 8 now. I started noticing improvements after about the third one. I have been completely clear for about the last month and a half and the results of it are, according to my wife, I no longer snore. I don’t have sleep apnea anymore. I am sleeping through the night and I am breathing really well with no blockage in my nose. It’s amazing. I do maintenance as needed to keep me breathing better.”

r. Google tells us that 30–60 million people are suffering with some or many of the above symptoms. Are you one of them? Does your home self-care help you? Do your sinuses suffer from weather changes, seasonal allergies, poor immunity, residuals from a concussion, failed sinus surgery or other situations?

The medical model for treatment when self-care doesn’t work includes all the TV advertisements you see for drugs, sprays, shots and CPAP. There are even different types of surgery, like the commonly referred to “roto-rooter” surgery, or a Septoplasty for a deviated sinus which, according to Dr. Google, 70–80% of the population have. There is Rhinoplasty, an attempt to surgically repair any structural defects in your nose. There is Balloon sinuplasty to crack open your blocked sinuses. There is Turbinoplasty, to reduce the size of the turbinate bones in your nose, which humidify and warm the air you breathe. There is Ethmoidectomy, which is the removal of your ethmoid sinuses, which are the air-filled cavities located in your skull between your eyes and nose. Another is sinus scraping, or removal of your cilia, called Functional Endoscopic Surgery. All of these are attempts to improve your breathing. All with a potential recovery time of weeks, not to mention some possible severe side effects. What are the outcomes of these surgeries? They may help for a while or they may not.

Because of the cutting on your sinuses, all of them leave you with scar tissue that may plague you for the rest of your life. But that’s not all. Many patients end up needing revision surgery, which is a follow-up surgery. Why? Because the first one didn’t work. Most importantly, they are all “missing the target:” the main mechanical or structural cause of your problem, the Sphenoid Bone in the center of your head which all 22 bones are connected to. I’ve been seeing these patients for over 40 years using a natural, non-surgical method called the Bilateral Nasal Specific Technique, am the protégé of its developer Dr. Stober and have successfully performed the procedure thousands of times. I can tell you if you are indeed a candidate for this potentially life-changing treatment.

“After the eighth treatment, I was sleeping solidly for 8 straight hours for the first time in 8 years. And by the way, no more drugs!!”

“Thanks, Dr. Siegfried.

—Nikita Z.

—Jon V.N. SCAN

ago in High School in Philly

My Confession to Yamhill County...

something happened that changed my life. I hurt my back playing football. Really bad! I could hardly walk. I remember the instant I felt that knife in my back. My Dad took me to Dr. Hill, our family chiropractor who adjusted my back.

Dear Friend,

When I meet people in Yamhill County, they usually say, “Oh I know you. You’re the doctor that I’ve seen on YouTube with your son Chris, from The Bachelorette.” Well, I want you to know a little more about that picture and why I used it in my ads. In 1976, when I was 26 and studying to be a chiropractor, I received an amazing treatment that totally changed my life and got rid of my chronic headaches, sinusitis and snoring from falls, bumps and thumps in sports, even a few fights growing up on the streets of Philly. It is called the Bilateral Nasal Specific Treatment from my teacher Dr. Stober, at the University of Western States in Portland. And all I could say then, and even now, was, “WOW!”

supposed to follow in the surgical footsteps of my great uncle who founded Nazareth Hospital in Philly – and cousin – who was an orthopedist. After undergraduate college at Schiller University in Heidelberg Germany, and pre-med studies at Temple University, I was accepted at the University of Western States in Portland, drove across the country, started in the fall of 1976 and graduated in 1981. And as they say, the rest is history. But before settling in McMinnville at the Dunn Chiropractic Clinic which was founded in 1922, I had the good fortune to travel with and take care of professional Broadway and Ballet dancers, Jockeys, the 1984 Italian Olympic Team Track and Field Division and many other professional athletes while in Italy.

Well all I can say is WOW! When I left Dr. Hill ’s office, I could stand up straight and walk. And the pain was gone! I knew at that moment I wanted to be a chiropractor, even though I was supposed to follow in the surgical footsteps of my great uncle who founded Nazareth Hospital in Philly – and cousin – who was an orthopedist. After undergraduate college at Schiller University in Heidelberg Germany, and pre-med studies at Temple University, I was accepted at the University of Western States in Portland, drove across the country, started in the fall of 1976 and graduated in 1981. And as they say, the rest is history. But before settling in McMinnville at the Dunn Chiropractic Clinic which was founded in 1922, I had the good fortune to travel with and take care of professional Broadway and Ballet dancers, Jockeys, the 1984 Italian Olympic Team Track and Field Division and many other professional athletes while in Italy.

After that first treatment, I was able to breathe so much better through my nose. And my headaches? It felt like a knife was taken out of my head. Even my vision improved from needing glasses to not needing glasses. At age 26, you learn to put up with a lot, but I was at the end of my rope, desperate, in spite of being a competitive athlete pitching in the semi-professional Portland City League. Once I had that adjustment, the lights went on for me and I knew at that moment I wanted to learn this special technique. I spent over 1,000 hours over a 10-year period observing and studying with Dr. Stober and am now a leading expert. I became his protégé and the only student to treat him for the chronic headaches he sustained from a bad head injury as a kid. Those headaches lead him to develop this special, non-surgical treatment. I also truly believe he saved my son Chris from a lot of suffering as well.

It’s strange how life is because I have treated many patients since 1976 with chronic migraines, sinusitis, snoring, concussions, whiplash, birth trauma and other conditions related to blows to the head or difficult births. There are reviews as well as my interview on my website: nasalspecific.com.

Just scan the QR code to the right to listen to it.

From Conehead to the Chicago Cubs

FROM CONEHEAD TO THE CHICAGO CUBS

You see, when Chris was born, after a 36hour intensive labor and home birth, he had a cone head and we were told that he could have cerebral palsy due to the stress on his head from the birth process. The day after he was born, I took him to Dr. Stober for his first Bilateral Nasal Specific Treatment. Right in front of our eyes, my wife and I could see the shape of his head changing. I took over Chris’s care from there and he became an All-Star baseball pitcher and soccer player in high school, a walkon at the University of Portland, and was drafted by the Chicago Cubs in the 11th round and the 354th pick and pitched for them for five years. One just never knows how valuable a Bilateral Nasal Specific Treatment and sound nutrition can be for a person’s health.

after about 3 visits. I ’ve had completely clear for about sults of it are according to have sleep apnea anymore. am breathing really well with ing.” - Crit Haney

Now, my CONFESSION is that I don’t heal anyone!! I never have.

I don’t treat or cure any of the problems patients come to me with. Here’s how it works: I make a specific adjustment to the sphenoid bone in your head. Your brain and nervous system then function better. It’s your body that does the healing. And I’ve had amazing results in practice since performing this special, non-surgical treatment thousands of

Now, My CONFESSION never have. I don’t treat or make a specific spinal or system functions better. It We’ve had tremendous results simple as that.

From Conehead to the Chicago Cubs

HERE’S JUST ONE TESTIMONIAL FROM A RECENT PATIENT

“My name is Landon Haney, and I am now 77 years old. I have had sinus problems off and on since I was a teenager. The most recent one started in 2011 and continued until recently.

Unique offer: you shouldn’t need expensive surgery, CPAP or drugs to breathe better!! If you bring in this article or mention it from for only $97 to see if you are a candidate for my Bilateral Nasal Specific Treatment. This consultation usually costs $295 to find out if you are a candidate for this potentially lifechanging treatment and could benefit from my non-surgical care plan. If you qualify for care and decide to take on your first treatment, I will waive the consultation fee.

My qualifications? I have been practicing my Bilateral Nasal Specific Treatment for over 40 years, the protégé of Dr. Stober, a leading expert in the field and have even been called the “Godfather” and “guru,” having performed the procedure thousands of times. I’ve treated jockeys, dancers, professional world-class athletes and everyday patients from infants to age 98. I’m committed to helping as many people as I possibly can.

When Chris was born, after a 36-hour labor, he had a conehead and we were told that he may have some cerebral palsy due to the stress on his head from the birth process. The day after he was born, I took him to Dr. Stober who did the nasal specific treatment on his head and adjusted the top bone in his spine. Right in front of our eyes we could see the shape of his head changing. I took over Chris ’s care from there and he became an All -Star Baseball pitcher and Soccer player, a walk on at the University of Portland, and junior year was drafted by the Chicago Cubs in the 11 th round, the 354 th pick and pitched for them for 5 years. One never knows how valuable a nasal specific, chiropractic adjustments and sound nutrition can do for someone ’s health.

My nose was completely plugged off and I heard about Dr. Siegfried on the radio. I knew him from past treatments he had done for me and always helped me, so I called for a consultation. He started the Bilateral Nasal Specific Treatments and I started noticing improvements after the first few treatments. I’ve had over 9 treatments now and my sinuses have been completely clear. The results of his treatments are, according to my wife, I no longer snore. I don’t have sleep apnea anymore. I’m sleeping through the night and I am breathing with no blockage in my nose. It’s amazing.”

One half of Americans

and those who do have found s where I come in. I have are able to afford the care they In the Journal of Manipulative peutics a study published in are under regular chiropractor you may not be running off that people actually pay less if they are seeing a chiropractor

Unique Offer It shouldn’ Your Health

My office assistants are wonderful!!! Our office is both friendly and warm and we try our best to make you feel at home. This is a potentially life-changing treatment for you. Please call my caring and enthusiastic staff to schedule your appointment today. I would like to change your life, too.

You can watch videos, read reviews and my FREE REPORT on my website at www. nasalspecific.com. Hope to see you soon! Dedicated to your health and wellness, Dr. Siegfried www.nasalspecific.com

If you bring in this article my entire new patient exam rays, if necessary, not included). cost you $295 elsewhere. Further you’ll be happy to know that ment plan. “Further care” making your choice of doctor. ly.

It’s strange how life is because I have treated many more patients with many different conditions such as headaches, migraines, chronic sinusitis, neck, arm, back , sciatica pain, athletic injuries and more.

Here’s what some of my patients had to say: There are over 190 more Google Reviews

“I can ’t thank Dr. Siegfried enough for the excellent care he has given me over the years. His adjustments, supplements, stretching and traction have gotten rid of my pain in a very short time. Yikes! can ’t tell you how good it feels to be pain free. I hope he never retires. ” - Cecelia Sahli

t thank Dr. Siegfried enough for the excellent care he has given me over the years. His adjustments, supplements, stretching and traction have gotten rid of my pain in a very short time.

Here are some of my qualifications graduated from Western States Oregon. Since then I have migraines, shoulder, arm, hip, lash injuries, chronic sinusitis dietary counseling and whole ed Chiropractor of the Year many other awards. I ’ve been from infants to professional ages. I just have that low fee

“Treated me and my family wonderfully after a bad car accident. Wonderful with both my children. One toddler and one infant. I could tell the difference after the 1 st appointment. ” - Aryian Mckay

My assistants are wonderful! warm and we try our best to wonderful service at an exceptional Chiropractic Clinic, A Pain is located at 301 NE Dunn Place our phone number is 503-472 enthusiastic assistants to make

Conehead to Chicago Cubs

APainand Wellness Practice

Dr. Siegfried

Painting the Poetry of Place

A journey through vibrant, endangered landscapes

By Dennis McNabb, Active Media

At its core, art can really be perceived as a conversation with the world around us. In the right hands, it has the ability to shape, question and redefine our understanding of reality. In the hands of artist Rita Robillard, that dialogue has always centered on the nature of place — its meaning, its memory, and the ways in which it molds who we are as individuals. Front and center on the main page of her website, she poses the question, “How does place affect our values and differ from urban and rural and eastern and western vantage points?” She continues, “In this time of migratory reality, how do we come to know the textures, moods, and values of new places?” And really, in a world where the internet is bringing divergent cultures from around the globe into closer proximity, what could possibly be more important than developing a more profound understanding of place?

Rita grew up in New York City. Her father was a musician who sadly passed at a young age. Her mother, a strong and resourceful woman, raised Rita and her sister to be both academically and artistically inclined. Rita learned at a young age that she was naturally adept at painting and she tested into The Cooper Union, a prestigious art college in New York. Later,

she transferred to UC Berkeley to study printmaking and began teaching on the side. Later still, she transferred to WSU as a full-time professor (teaching printmaking), and finally to Portland to teach drawing and graduate classes as well as chairing the art department at PSU. Always a dedicated and enthusiastic teacher, fully committed to her students and her craft, she was still, at heart, a painter first and a printmaker second.

Over the years, as she continued painting and exploring various mediums, methods, and themes (all while teaching), she assembled an impressive and expansive body of work. Focusing on nature instead of chasing the fashionable styles and themes of the times, her art has a vibrancy and relevance that is missing in the works of some of her contemporaries. Inspired and informed by her travels, her paintings represent real places from real times. They are places that, in some cases, no longer exist and moments that have long since passed, yet through Rita’s keen eye and deft brushwork, they are forever immortalized.

Rita Robillard’s mixed-media work has been included in over 100 museum and gallery exhibitions all over the world. Her pieces are included in over 30 public collections, and she has served on several boards and art committees. She is an invaluable member of our local art community here in Portland. Represented by Bob Kochs, her work was last seen in July of 2024 at the Augen Gallery in downtown Portland. That exhibit, The Amazon in Rio, was met with huge success. For more information or to inquire about purchasing her work, check out her website: ritarobillard.com, or contact Bob Kochs at the Augen Gallery: 503-544-6623.

Rita, 2019, opening of “And Then Again...”

And then again

Waters of March

The Fire That Named a City

A tale of pioneers, progress, and perseverance in the Willamette Valley

The Founding of Woodburn

As more settlers arrived in the Willamette Valley, towns began to spring up along the stagecoach routes. The area now known as Woodburn was originally part of the Donation Land Claim Act of 1850, a federal construct that encouraged settlers to establish farms by offering free land. It wasn’t long before the small settlement began to grow, as more pioneers homesteaded the fertile soil of the region. Early settlers such as Eli C. Cooley, Bradford S. Bonney, George Leisure, and Jean B. Ducharme were some of the first settlers to lay claims in the area.

By Robert Matsumura, Active Media

Boasting a rich and colorful history, Woodburn grew from humble origins as a farming community into a vibrant city whose story reflects the broader history of Oregon itself — marked by waves of settlement, agricultural innovation, and community spirit. Today a bustling city of over 25,000 residents, Woodburn continues to help shape the dynamic future of the Willamette Valley, and its past tells a tale of the region’s cultural and economic identity.

The Early Years:

Indigenous Peoples and European Exploration

Far prior to settlers arriving in the Willamette Valley, the region was home to various indigenous tribes, primarily the Kalapuya people. Having lived in the valley for thousands of years, Kalapuya were skilled hunters, fisherman, and gatherers, thriving on a diet of fish, berries, and plants. Present-day Woodburn was home to many of their seasonal camps and traditional hunting grounds.

European exploration of the region commenced in the early 19th century as fur traders and explorers like David Douglas and the Hudson’s Bay Company arrived to chart the land. By the mid-1800s settlers began flooding into the Oregon Territory, drawn by the promise of fertile land and new opportunities.

In 1862 Jesse Settlemier purchased 214 acres from Ducharme in a foreclosure sale and founded the Woodburn Nursery Company, a venture that gained prominence throughout the West. In 1871 Settlemier platted four blocks of what evolved into downtown Woodburn. He later donated land to the Oregon and California Railroad to lay tracks through the town. Originally, the town was named Halsey, but the name was changed due to another town in the Willamette Valley having the same name. It is said that the town

was named Woodburn because of a slash burn in the 1880s that got out of control and set flame to a nearby woodlot.

Woodburn was officially incorporated as a city in 1889, a milestone that marked its transition from a rural outpost to a burgeoning agricultural hub. In the years that followed, Woodburn’s position in the heart of the Willamette Valley, one of the most productive agricultural regions in the country, allowed it to thrive.

The Rise of Agriculture

From the beginning, agriculture has been at the core of Woodburn’s economy and identity. The Willamette Valley proved ideal for growing a wide range of crops, including wheat, oats, and vegetables. It was the establishment of fruit orchards, however,

Early School Woodburn

Main Street in the early 1900s

in the late 19th century, that truly put Woodburn on the map. By the early 1900s, the city had earned a reputation as one of the best fruit-growing regions in Oregon.

The Southern Pacific Railroad, which passed through Woodburn, facilitated the transport of agricultural products to markets far beyond Oregon. This transportation network spurred opportunities for growth, and both residents and businesses burgeoned in the area.

Woodburn and World War II

World War II brought a surge of activity to Woodburn. The wartime economy provided a boost to the local industry, with many farms shifting to produce goods for the war effort. It was during this time that the U.S. government’s Braceros Program brought agricultural workers from Mexico to Oregon to help work the farms, which were suffering a labor shortage due to men serving abroad in the war. Many of these workers eventually settled in Woodburn. Today 95 percent of the businesses in downtown Woodburn are Latino owned-and -operated.

Post-War Growth and Development

After World War II, Woodburn continued to grow and change. The postwar boom saw the development of new businesses and infrastructure as

the population expanded rapidly. In the 1950s and 1960s, Woodburn experienced significant suburbanization.

The construction of highways made it easier for people to commute to nearby cities, allowing Woodburn to attract new residents seeking a quieter, rural lifestyle while still maintaining access to urban amenities.

Also during the 1950s, Molokans, a Christian sect which had broken away from the Russian Orthodox Church, began settling in the Woodburn area and the surrounding Willamette Valley.

These Russian Orthodox Old Believers arrived by the thousands, and in 2022 it was estimated that 10,000 Old Believers live in the Woodburn area. Many of these children have the good fortune to attend one of the few K-12 public s chools in the U.S. with a Russian language program.

The establishment of the Woodburn Company Stores in the 1990s also provided a significant boost to the economy with its outlet stores drawing visitors from both near and far. The outlet mall still remains a key

attraction, bringing thousands of shoppers each year.

Today’s Woodburn:

A Diverse and Thriving Community

Today, Woodburn is a diverse and vibrant city. While it remains a hub of agriculture, the city is also home to a growing number of wineries, reflecting the popularity of Oregon wines. In addition to its agricultural heritage, Woodburn’s rich cultural diversity is reflected in the city’s local festivals, restaurants, and community events such as the annual Woodburn Fiesta Mexicana, which celebrates the city’s Mexican heritage with music, dance and food, drawing crowds from all over the region. Woodburn also takes pride in its historic downtown, where many of the charming buildings and storefronts from the late 19th and early 20th centuries still reside. The Woodburn History Museum provides glimpses into the city’s past, featuring artifacts and exhibiting highlights of the agricultural roots and the people who helped shape the area.

Woodburn

So the next time you’re traveling down I-5, take the opportunity to explore Woodburn and its unique historical and cultural heritage. A portrait of resiliency, hard work and civic pride, Woodburn is truly one of the Willamette Valley’s rising stars!

Russian female immigrants, 1967

Woodburn High School Students, 1966

Cultural Heritage Inspired Woodburn Mural

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