Woodburn Community Advantage Magazine January 2023

ADMINISTRATION

Matthew Nelson, Publisher Catrina Nelson, CFO

Tara Weidman, Executive Assistant Donovan Darling, Content Manager

PRODUCTION

Jeremy Okai Davis, Art Director

Stacy Benner, Sr. Graphic Designer

Holly Darling, Sr. Graphic Designer

Shawn Schmidt, Sr. Graphic Designer Hilary Berg, Sr. Graphic Designer

PLANNING FOR WINTER EMERGENCIES

As winter looms, so does the prospect of storms and inclement weather capable of wreaking havoc on both life and property. Planning ahead for weather emergencies can safeguard your home, as well as your loved ones. The following tips will help you prepare for the worst that nature might throw your way.

Family Preparation

Assemble an emergency kit. Be sure you’re equipped with extra blankets, flashlights with extra batteries, a batteryoperated radio, a first aid kit, a fire extinguisher, and enough prescription medications to last at least a week.

Stock up on non-perishable food and water. Provisions should be adequate to last your family a minimum of three days.

Regrouping locations. Families should establish locations both on and off their property to rendezvous should they become separated during an emergency.

Family members should learn basic First Aid and CPR should a medical emergency occur.

Home Preparation

Check that walls and attics are properly insulated, and that doors and windows are weather-stripped and adequately sealed.

Inspect and clean chimneys, and make certain heating equipment is in good working order.

Insulate pipes. If freezing temperatures are forecast, allow faucets to drip to avoid freezing solid.

Monitor fuel supplies. If your home is heated via propane, oil, or wood, be sure you’re adequately stocked should an extended storm hit.

Stock up on water. In addition to bottled water, filling one’s bathtub with water as well as extra containers will help address a host of water-related needs from drinking and cooking to flushing toilets.

By Robert Matsumura, Contributing Writer

Property maintenance is a preventative measure that may help avoid or mitigate damage to one’s home. Attend to tree branches that could break in high winds or freezing conditions.

Consider purchasing a portable generator in case power is out for an extended period.

Vehicle

Winterize your vehicles. Have your mechanic check wiper blades, ignitions systems, batteries, antifreeze, lights, heater, brakes, defroster, and oil.

Inspect your tires to ensure that they have adequate tread. Be certain that the type of tires mounted on your car will be effective in inclement weather. In certain climates and jurisdictions, chains or studded tires will be required for travel.

Keep the following items in your vehicle:

• A windshield scraper and small broom

• A bag of sand to create traction for tires in snowy/icy conditions

• Matches stored in a waterproof container

• A brightly colored cloth to tie to your antenna (preferably neon orange, yellow, or red)

• An emergency kit (including first aid supplies, warm clothing, a flashlight, and blankets).

• Keep gas tanks full and batteries charged (for electric vehicles) in the event that you are required to leave your home.

Pets

Bring your pet animals indoors.

Outdoor animals should have an area where they can be sheltered from severe winter conditions. Grazing animals should have a protected food supply and a non-frozen water source.

Many of us won’t find time to address every item listed above; however, any preparation is better than none. A little forethought can go a long way when winter weather hits.

FENDER COMES TO CANBY

By Patti Jo Brooks, Contributing Writer Photos by Andrew Sambuceto

Canby Music welcomes Fender! Following a 2½ year delay from the original order date, this iconic guitar brand takes up its long-awaited place at Canby Music. Fender guitars, amps, basses, and everything else comprising the full Fender line has finally arrived. Canby Music is excited to be your local Fender dealership and offer “one of the biggest names in guitars.”

With upwards of 100 guitars in the Fender line on-site, customers will have the luxury of selecting just the right instrument to fit their music style and level of expertise. Beginning with the Squier, a more affordable brand in the Fender line suitable for a beginner, moving up to the quality instruments crafted in Mexico, and ultimately the Made in the USA top-of-the-line Fender guitar. A complete inventory of amplifiers, everything from practice amps to full-stage tube amps are also available, as well as all the accessories—straps, strings, stands, and more. Don’t see something in the Fender line you’re looking for? No worries. Canby Music can order it for you!

Brian Haines, owner of Canby Music, began his business in 2008 on “kind of on a whim,” he relates. All through his 20s he had traveled on the road playing guitar in different bands. He enjoyed local success performing at fairs, rodeos, and casinos, and often performed weeklong gigs within the Western United States. On

his final road trip Brian had been gone 6 months, returning home at 29 years old. “This has all been fun and dandy,” he remembers thinking, but he also entertained the idea of settling down and having a family. Wanting to stay in music without traveling, Brian decided that “a music store would be the way to go.” He opened Canby Music in downtown Canby, and due to multiple requests he began teaching lessons as a service to the community. Along the way, band instrument rentals and repairs were also added.

After 10 years of growing business, Canby Music bought the “blue house” property in 2018 and began renovating. Completing much of the work himself, Brian opened the new location in September 2020, which includes: 4 lessons rooms staffed by instructors who teach multiple instruments, an instrument repair shop, band rentals, a high-end retail shop, and climate control throughout. In addition to more space, Brian expresses, “It’s nice and new, everything works.”

Canby Music hand-picks their staff of highly-qualified individuals. Nathan Doty, Repair Technician, started with Canby Music at the downtown location. Nathan is the school liaison, in charge of instrument repairs for all the local schools.

Christian Engerman, Studio Manager, teaches lessons and is responsible for lesson scheduling and billing. Lana Szenasi was “perfect” with her background in band and was assigned to school band rentals.

Lana also teaches lessons and repairs instruments in the rental fleet. Ryleigh Mulhern, a school senior, came in with family and thought it would be “neat” to work in a music store. She sat and played their piano, the staff was impressed, and thought she’d be a good fit for the store. She teaches lessons and is their graphic designer. Cody McEldowney heads up Drums and School Percussion. He’s also in charge of the retail business, receiving and displaying products, and ringing up sales.

Brian continues teaching 20 or so individuals who’ve “been coming for years,” he says, “but mostly steers the ship

these days.” Living in Canby with his wife and 2 school-age children, both in Canby School District, Brian Haines knows what it means to be a local independent business owner and active community member. Brian, who’s originally from Canby, came up with the concept of Canby Music, and he states candidly, “This is as Canby as it gets.” He donates instruments and lessons to school auctions and equestrian events (showing support for his daughter who rides). He shops generously at the fireworks booth at Canby Music Boosters Club,

which raises money for high school and middle school bands. He is also a member of Canby Chamber of Commerce.

Stop by Canby Music today and check out their impressive inventory of Fender guitars as well as their other local brands such as Breedlove from Bend, OR. Don’t forget to ask about Free Financing!

Canby Music is located at 590 NW 1st Ave. in Canby. Call them at (503)263-2263 or email brian@canbymusic.com. For additional information visit their website at canbymusic.com.

By Donovan Darling, Staff Writer

High School Musical

(2006)

While not a NYE movie as a whole, there is a party, so close enough. Zac Efron won a Teen Choice Award for Breakout Star in this movie, which follows a popular jock and a nerd who land roles in the high school musical, and their surprising friendship immediately threatens the status quo of East High. What it lacks in story it makes up with fun, singing and dancing, and a great message to just be yourself. It’s happy, fluffy, and great for the whole family. Starring Zac Efron, Vanessa Hudgens, and many more. Rated G.

Ghostbusters II (1989)

Kids today need to learn where all the remakes and reboots are coming from, and there’s no better place than Ghostbusters II. Just as good as the first movie in my opinion, this is indeed a New Year’s Eve movie. Years later, New York City is ghost-free and the Ghostbusters are out of work. But then an evil ooze begins to bubble under the streets that feeds off of negative energy, prompted by Vigo the Carpathian, a 16th century sorcerer-alchemist trying to return from the dead, and strange and unexplainable events begin to happen. The whole city has to come together singing “Auld Lang Syne” to help the Ghostbusters defeat evil once again. Starring Bill Murray, Dan Aykroyd, Harold Ramis, Ernie Hudson, Sigourney Weaver, Rick Moranis, and many more. Rated PG, but views more like PG-13 with language, mature themes, and violence.

Age of Adaline (2015)

Adaline (Blake Lively) is an immortal woman, forever 29 years old, born on New Year’s Day, who ritualistically attends annual New Year’s Eve parties. At a party she meets a guy, Ellis Jones (Michiel Huisman), and her meticulous reality starts to fall apart when they fall in love, and she has to begin to reconcile her complicated past, present, and future. Costarring Kathy Baker, Amanda Crew, Harrison Ford, and Ellen Burstyn, this romance-fantasy with its ups and downs and feels is a great movie for couples or families with teens. Rated PG-13 for “thematic material” and violence.

Bridget Jones’s Diary (2001)

One of the few movies that’s better than the book in my opinion, it’s about an early 30s single working woman living in London who writes in her diary about things she wishes for: her job, self-worth, family and friends, vices, and love. It’s hilarious, quirky, self-aware, graphic, heartwarming, and very much a “why can’t I find love?” kind of movie. Starring Renée Zellweger, Colin Firth, Hugh Grant, Shirley Henderson, and many more. Rated R for language, mature themes, and some nudity. Adults only!

Stream these movies where available, or rent from your local movie store, library, or rental kiosk.

Read along with us at The Book Nook!

A MERRY LITTLE MEET CUTE

By Julie Murphy {JANUARY}

The Light Pirate

Lily Brooks-Dalton NOVEL

As devastating weather patterns and rising sea levels wreak gradual havoc on Florida’s landscape, a hurricane approaches the southeastern coast. Kirby Lowe, an electrical line worker, his pregnant wife, Frida, and their two sons prepare for the worst. When the boys go missing just before the hurricane hits, Kirby leaves to find them. Left alone, Frida goes into labor, giving birth to an unusual child, Wanda, named after the storm. As Florida continues to unravel, Wanda grows into adulthood, adapting to the changing landscape and those who stayed behind. Wanda loses family, gains community, and ultimately, seeks adventure, love, and purpose in a place remade by nature.

We Deserve Monuments

Jas Hammonds YOUNG ADULT

Avery Anderson is convinced her senior year is ruined when she’s uprooted from her life in D.C. and forced into the hostile home of her terminally ill grandmother, Mama Letty. The tension between Avery’s mom and Mama Letty unearths past trauma they refuse to talk about. While tempers flare in her family, Avery finds friendship in Simone Cole, her captivating next-door neighbor, and Jade Oliver, daughter of the town’s most prominent family — whose mother’s murder remains unsolved. Family secrets, a swoon-worthy romance, and a slowburn mystery collide in “We Deserve Monuments,” a YA that explores how racial violence can ripple through generations.

Wonder Walkers

Micha Archer PICTURE BOOK

Nook can ship directly to

from the warehouse (faster) or ship to the store for pick-up (free shipping).

When two curious kids embark on a “wonder walk,” they let their imaginations soar, looking at the world in a whole new light. They have thought-provoking questions for everything they see: Is the sun the world’s light bulb? Is dirt the world’s skin? Are rivers the earth’s veins? Is the wind the world breathing?

As readers ponder these gorgeous pages, wonder will fill their hearts and new connections will be made.

Have you ever wanted to join a book club?

JANUARY

By Donovan Darling, Staff Writer

Winter is a fun season full of holidays and cozy hangouts. But it’s also a dangerous time for pets if left outside or unattended. Follow these tips to keep your dogs and cats safe this season.

Shelter

Winter is cold (duh). So keep your pets inside often if temperatures approach freezing or it’s really windy. Cats especially shouldn’t be left outside to roam, with low temps and predators. Dogs love walks and exercise, but they can also wander (and run away) if they need to seek warm shelter. If dogs are kenneled outdoors, they need a dry windless shelter large enough for them to move around but small enough to stay warm. Ensure their water doesn’t freeze and use plastic dishes so their tongues don’t freeze either.

Hungry Pups

Dogs will often consume 2-3x their normal caloric intake in winter. This allows them to accumulate more fat and insulation to keep warm and prevent themselves from shivering. So if your dog seems unusually hungry (like my Husky-German Shepherd, Whiskey), feed them!

Sweaters

Dog clothes are incredibly divisive, but short-haired dogs just aren’t designed for cold weather. Windchill is dangerous, not to mention frostbite on noses, ears, and paw pads, as well as hypothermia. If it’s near freezing, bundle up your short-haired pup!

Salt & De-Icers

If you take your dog outside for a walk and you use rock salt or a chemical de-icer, make sure you wipe off their paws with a damp towel before they lick them. Salt and de-icers can irritate their paw pads, as well as their mouths. Rock salt can also poison dogs, so if they eat it you should call a veterinarian immediately.

MAKING MEMORIES WITH FIVE SENSES

We’ve all heard the phrase “living in the moment.” Take this moment right now and think, just how often do we actually do that. How often are you totally immersed in what’s happening right now and nothing else? Using all five senses can help make memories–and not just to make it through the day–but to really experience life to the fullest.

SIGHT The first sense is sight. Experiencing the beauty of nature or taking time to look up at the stars on a clear night sky can have a profound impact on how we feel in that moment. When something catches your eye, take a few seconds to observe it and let your eyes take it in fully. Appreciate its beauty and be thankful for that moment in time.

SMELL Smells have power to trigger memories from long ago, whether good or bad. Taking time to appreciate beautiful smells like flowers or an outdoor breeze can lift our spirits and make us smile. Be mindful next time you encounter an aroma and try to remember it consciously by thinking, “this smells like…”

TASTE Taste is another powerful way to remember moments in life. Eating delicious food with family members or friends is not only fun but also creates lasting memories that are hard to forget. Especially when trying new foods, thinking about how they taste will create mental pictures of being there with those people eating that meal together forever frozen in your mind.

TOUCH Touch has incredible power as well –from holding hands with someone special to feeling warm sand between your toes on the beach. These kinds of experiences

make us feel alive inside! The next time you feel the spray from a waterfall on your face, really focus on the physical sensations on your skin and commit those feelings to memory so you can revisit them anytime you need a reminder of joyous times spent together with loved ones.

SOUND Sounds enrich our lives through the making of memories. Hearing a child’s laughter can fill an empty heart. Songs of our youth seem to transcend time. What sound makes you smile?

Living life through our five senses gives us access to moments of true joy and connection with people around us—moments that will last long after they’re gone–if we take time to experience them fully with all five senses! The next time you find yourself wanting more out of life, try slowing down and making memories with each of your five senses—you won’t regret it!

Until we meet, be well. S t e p h a n i e W e l l s

OREGON BROKER

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503.931.9122 www.LivingLocalNW.com facebook: LivingLocalNorthwest

About Me

Hello my name is Lili Giron and I am a Spanish speaking team member I decided to get into real estate after college because growing up I was always moving around, my parents didn't know and were afraid of purchasing a home They didn't know any English and it was very difficult for them Therefore, for years we struggled with rents and moving around This sparked my interest in the home buying process and I believe owning a home is a dream that many of us have, but it can be a daunting process My goal is to help anyone who wants to buy or sell a home, and lose that fear of going through that process

LILI

Acerca de mí

Hola mi nombre es Lili Giron y soy un miembro del equipo que habla español Decidí entrar en el sector inmobiliario después de la universidad porque al crecer siempre estaba mudándome, mis padres no sabían y tenían miedo de comprar una casa No sabían nada de inglés y les resultaba muy difícil Por lo tanto, durante años luchamos con alquileres y mudanzas Esto despertó mi interés en el proceso de compra de vivienda y creo que ser dueño de una casa es un sueño que muchos de nosotros tenemos, pero puede ser un proceso desalentador Mi objetivo es ayudar a cualquier persona que quiera comprar o vender una casa, y perder ese miedo a pasar por ese proceso

Hola mi nombre es Lili Giron y soy un miembro del equipo que habla español. Decidí entrar en el sector inmobiliario después de la universidad porque al crecer siempre estaba mudándome, mis padres no sabían y tenían miedo de comprar una casa. No sabían nada de inglés y les resultaba muy difícil. Por lo tanto, durante años luchamos con alquileres y mudanzas. Esto despertó mi interés en el proceso de compra de vivienda y creo que ser dueño de una casa es un sueño que muchos de nosotros tenemos, pero puede ser un proceso desalentador. Mi objetivo es ayudar a cualquier persona que quiera comprar o vender una casa, y perder ese miedo a pasar por ese proceso

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NEW Construction Update from Comcast!

Things change! As we continue to connect communities and neighborhoods, we are still experiencing delays in some earlier scheduled areas. We are looking forward to everyone experiencing the Xfinity difference!

You can also confirm when service should be available at your address at www.xfinity.com. Residents will receive postcards and door-hangers indicating that construction will begin in your neighborhood thirty days prior to the work getting underway.

Xfinity offers reliable network, faster speeds and the best unlimited mobile pricing. We can't wait to be a part o f the Woodburn community.

Go to www.xfinity.com for more information.

THE

HISTORY

OF FENDER GUITARS: RESHAPING THE MUSICAL LANDSCAPE

By Robert Matsumura, Contributing Writer

The screaming guitar solo. The thunderous ferocity of driving power chords. A blues-y rhythm that drives people onto the dance floor. There’s a good chance the guitarist creating this incredible music is playing a Fender guitar. One of the most famous brands of guitars in the world, with legions of iconic musicians who swear by them, the story of Fender guitars traces back to the man whose last name will forever be linked to the electric guitar: Leo Fender.

Clarence Leonidas (Leo) Fender was born in 1909 in Southern California. With a natural interest in electronics from a young age, he soon was repairing radios out of his parents’ home for local clientele. After high school and junior college he attempted to support himself and his wife, Esther, as an accountant, but despite his best efforts the accounting jobs fizzled. Fed up with the “regular” work world, Leo reverted to his original passion—electronics.

In 1938 with a $600 loan, Leo opened a radio repair shop in Fullerton, California, called “Fender Radio Service.” The genesis of Fender as we know it today traces back to this first shop. An enterprising businessman, Leo realized that in order to maximize his revenue in a small town like Fullerton, he needed to diversify. Soon he had expanded his business from the repair of radios, phonograph players, amplifiers, and PA systems, to building amplifiers based upon his own designs. At the time the vacuum tube technology utilized in these systems—developed originally by Westinghouse—was generally available as public domain information.

It wasn’t long before Leo broadened his business from the repair and creation of PA systems to renting them out as well. In addition, he began selling records in his store front to meet Fullerton’s rising demand for popular music. As one might expect, local musicians and band leaders began frequenting Leo’s store not only for PA systems to purchase and rent, but also for the musical amplifiers which Leo was now building to meet the burgeoning demand for electronically-amplified music. Big bands and jazz performers increasingly featured amplified acoustic guitars and electric “Hawaiian” or “lap steel” guitars as part of their new sound.

In the 1940s, Leo met Clayton Orr “Doc” Kauffman, a musician and chief designer of electric guitars for Rickenbacker, which had been manufacturing the electric lap steel guitars for over a decade. It wasn’t long before the two became business partners and launched K&F Manufacturing Inc. to design, manufacture, and market electronic instruments and amplifiers. The K&F venture released its first electric lap steel guitars in 1945, followed a year later by amps known as the “Woodie Series.” That same year, however, Doc pulled out of the partnership with concerns about the financial risks.

New Year’s Sparkling Cranberry Orange Punch

INGREDIENTS

750 ml bottle sparkling cider or sparkling wine

25 oz bottle sparkling cranberry juice (such as R. W. Knudsen brand)

Garnish: 1 orange, sliced, and a handful of fresh cranberries

Optional: ¼ cup Triple Sec or Grand Marnier

DIRECTIONS

1. Combine the Champagne/ sparkling wine, cranberry juice and Triple Sec or Grand Marnier in a serving vessel.

2. Garnish with orange slices and cranberries.

boulderlocavore.com/sparkling-cranberry-orange-champagne-punch

WFD Graduates New Volunteer Firefighters

On Nov. 30, Woodburn Fire District (WFD) hosted a graduation ceremony for new volunteer firefighters who completed the volunteer firefighter training program.

This is the first academy WFD has hosted solely in-house in several years. Fire Lieutenant Mitchell Raines, the lead instructor for the program, noted, “The program has resulted in some of the highest trained volunteer firefighters I have ever had the pleasure of instructing.”

The new firefighter training program, primarily taught by Raines and Thomas Cally, the district’s volunteer firefighter coordinator, encompassed 148 hours of training in fire suppression and rescue techniques, fire ground operations, and use of equipment and tools. Lt. Raines and Cally were assisted by many other career firefighters and senior volunteers during evening and weekend training sessions over the past four months.

The completion of the new recruit training program results in certification as Firefighter I, which is recognized by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). Firefighters who earn this certification are qualified to enter a burning structure as part of a crew to conduct fire extinguishment, occupant search and ventilation assignments.

The eight WFD graduates, including Brayan Ayala, Karis Chaplin, Joseph De La Vega, Alex Fuentes, Adrian Hernandez, Jose Ortiz, Luis Pena and Alejandro Sandoval, also completed 12 credit hours of emergency medical technician (EMT) training. This six-month training program accredited through Chemeketa Community College was hosted at the WFD’s main station on Newberg Highway. Certification as an EMT is an entry level qualification for career firefighters. In his address to the graduates, Lt. Raines reminded the recruits to remain diligent in their training for emergency

response. “In an emergency, firefighters do not rise to the challenge, they fall to the level of their training,” he said. “When you are in the fight of your life, you will not have the ability to be creative, you will default to what you know, what you were trained to do.”

Although the new members are excited about obtaining their Firefighter I and EMT certifications, many see this as just the beginning of their training and plan to continue to learn alongside Woodburn’s career firefighters to gain additional certifications. For those volunteers who choose to pursue an associate degree in fire protection technology or emergency medical service, the district offers tuition assistance and the opportunity to reside at one of the district’s four fire stations while attending college full-time.

WFD Chief Joe Budge explains, “The student resident program provides students with training and real-life experience in the fire service to augment their college studies. This program is a win-win for the students and the fire district; we help our students with their career and education goals, and they help the fire district meet its emergency response mission to the community.”

Many of the district’s past recruit academy graduates are now working as career firefighters in fire departments across the state and beyond.

The latest graduation class brings the total to 30 volunteers who assist the district’s career firefighters in response to overlapping 9-1-1 calls and incidents, such as structure fires, brush fires and multiple vehicle accidents that require more than one fire engine to respond.

While the certification and training of this group of volunteers required nearly a year of education and training to complete, WFD also offers volunteer opportunities that requires much less time for certification. “The fire district is continually looking for retired truck drivers and equipment operators to drive the large tenders that deliver water to rural areas of the district that do not have hydrants,” said Chief Budge. “This is a great way to meet an important need in the community and work alongside the career and volunteer firefighters”.

For more information on the Firefighter I certification program and other volunteer opportunities, please contact WFD’s recruitment coordinator, Thomas Cally, at 503-982-2360. 

From left: Alejandro Sandoval, Jose Ortiz, Joseph De La Vega, Alex Fuentes, Luis Pena, Brayan Ayala, Adrian Hernandez, Karis Chaplin

PHOTO COURTESY OF DE LA VEGA STUDIOS

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HOPETH ALL THINGS

COMMUNITY INTEGRAL TO NONPROFIT STORE

here’s something truly special about walking into an establishment and feeling right at home. A place where people know your name and, more importantly, want to help, and genuinely care.

Meet Charlie and Alesa Hintz, the managers of Ray of Hope Community Thrift Store, located off Highway 99E in Woodburn. The couple runs the store under the umbrella of A Ray of Hope, Today!, a ministry-focused nonprofit seeking to aid other area charities, such as Neighbors Serving Under-Sheltered Neighbors, among others. At the heart of the organization is the thrift store, which opened two and a half years ago. Since then, the shop has doubled its efforts, donations and output.

Not your typical second-hand venture, Ray of Hope represents all that is cherished about a “community,” from its variety of items donated lovingly and prolifically, to the passionate volunteers and employees, to the outreach that happens among the racks and behind the counter through honest conversations and relationship building.

For Charlie, the store’s essence remains making connections with customers, staff, other organizations and businesses. “I want to walk alongside people,” he says. “I want to be an avenue and a bridge for my customers into the community.”

Case in point: Through home-toschool liaisons in the Woodburn School District, the Hintzes recently were alerted that some students didn’t have

Charlie and Alesa Hintz

...DISCOVERING WOODBURN AND BEYOND

of Hope into action, either donating the items or connecting the customer with a network of charities. Of course, a small amount of paperwork must be filled out to keep the books organized. Just the other day, a customer inquired about a wheelchair, which was actually in stock. If Charlie and Alesa hadn’t had one on hand, they would’ve contacted Woodburn Christian Church, which offers a medical loan closet.

beds in their homes. Although highquality mattresses are rare donations, it didn’t stop Charlie from finding a way to help. He reached out to business members of the Woodburn Chamber of Commerce for money contributions. Quickly, Ray of Hope raised $2,000, and within two weeks, the purchase of 25 twin beds — pillows and mattresses, too — were made. It was the store’s reputation for outreach that made the charitable effort possible.

“This store is the community’s, and we want to do everything to provide exactly what the community needs through this store,” Charlie says.

They keep the prices extremely low and put the best of the best on the floor,

rotating items so customers always have new merchandise to peruse. Combine these sales strategies with the feelgood shopping environment, and the thrift store itself — sans the nonprofit’s mission and good deeds — has been a resounding success.

Yet again, community remains at the heart of the shop. “I have an attitude that ours is the ‘Cheers’ of thrift stores. People come in and talk; they have conversations, and my staff is involved in a lot of those conversations. They want to get to know people, and we want to get to know them, too. We are on a firstname basis with a lot of our customers.” Sometimes, casual conversations reveal a greater need, sparking Ray

Other times, organizations reach out to Ray of Hope to help their constituents. Alesa explains, “Over the

335 N. Pacific Highway Woodburn, OR 97071 503-773-5250 www.rayofhopethrift.org

last few weeks, I’ve gotten e-mails from Family Building Blocks, [a nonprofit committed to keeping children safe and families together], asking for items to help some of their families.”

For Ray of Hope, this is business as usual. For the Hintzes, this is their life. The couple can be found at the store from 8 a.m. to 7:30 p.m., Monday through Saturday, although each takes off one day out of the six.

If you visit Ray of Hope, chances are you‘ll be greeted by Alesa or Charlie, as well as friendly workers and volunteers, all pleased to be a part of this Woodburn godsend.

Ray of Hope is an extraordinary place. One step inside, and you’ll witness compassion, commitment and community in action, not to mention lots of treasures to explore. 

By Cole Mallette, Contributing Writer

Whether your kids or grandkids have a birthday coming up, or you’re a college student looking for a place to hang out with friends, Woodburn Bowl is the spot you’ve been looking for. Pick any lane and you’ll be in for a good time! Personally, I really like taking my girlfriend out on bowling dates because it’s a fun and safe physical activity, and a great way to get competitive and show off your skills–or if you’re like me, spend some time in the gutter. Trust me, there’s ample opportunity!

Dine-in and take out food is available, so there’s no need to eat before you arrive. For the kids, the 3-Piece Chicken Strips are always a hit with little ones. But if you’re out with friends, consider trying the Spicy Boneless Chicken Wings –definitely a good food to pair with ice cold beer. There’s pitchers of beer available for the group, but also 16 ounce pints for individuals, or if you’re feeling adventurous, a 32 ounce ‘Man Mug’. It all depends on how much confidence you have out there on the floor! On a quest for something a little lighter? Try the Mini Corn Dogs or a 5-Piece Butterfly Shrimp. And if you feel like switching it up, get the 3-Piece Cod Fish Fillets.

You won’t ever strike out with the food here! Why? Because all of these menu items come with your choice of tater tots, fries, or even curly fries. Sounds good, doesn’t it? But wait. Did you think that was it? Far from it! There’s lots more food to order if you’re feeling hungry down at Woodburn Bowl. Try the 1/4-Pound Hot Dog or Polish Dog, or if you’re on a date or group outing and in the mood to share, you might pick the 5-Piece Mozzarella Sticks, maybe some Jalapeno Poppers, or my personal favorite–Onion Rings. Just don’t get the Nachos unless you want your hand swatted away by your date! That melted cheese is addictive.

Woodburn Bowl is an iconic local gathering place with fun, great food, and great group rates for special events and private parties, too. Give Woodburn Bowl a shot for your next outing. Where else can you find fun-for-thewhole-family at $3.50 per game per person? Seriously, shoe rentals are only $2.50! Come on down to Woodburn bowl and pick a lane!

Visit Woodburn Bowl at 435 N Pacific Hwy.in Woodburn from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Call (503) 981-1500 to make a reservation.

¿Qué?

¿Qué es una hipoteca inversa? Es un préstamo hipotecario especialmente para que las personas mayores aprovechen y utilicen el capital. (La diferencia entre cuánto vale tu propiedad y cuánto tadavia debes por el préstamo) de su casa. Hay diferentes tipos de préstamos hipotecarios inversos.

¿Quién?

¿Quién puede obtener una hipoteca inversa? Tienes que tener 62 años o más para poder calificar y su casa deber ser su residencia principal. Ademas, necesita ser propietario de su casa directamente o tener suficiente capital en la casa para que el préstamo funcione.

¿Por Qué?

¿Por qué elegir una hipoteca inversa? (1) El préstamo te permite seguir viviendo en tu propia casa. (2) En lugar de hacer pagos mensuales de capital e intereses en su casa. (los impuestos y el seguro aún deben pagarse) puedes recibir pagos mensuales, una suma global, una linea de crédito o una combinación para ayudar a complementar los ingresos en funcion del capital de su hogar. (3) Una hipoteca inversa a menudo puede mejorar la calidad de vida y la jubilación.

Reverse Mortgages

What?

What is a reverse mortgage? It is a home loan specifically for seniors to tap into and use the equity (the difference between how much your property is worth and how much you still owe on the loan) of their home. There are different types of reverse mortgage loans.

Who?

Who can get a reverse mortgage? You have to be 62 years or older to qualify and your home needs to be your primary residence. In addition, you either need to own your home outright or have enough equity in the home for the loan to work.

Why?

Why choose a reverse mortgage? (1) The loan allows you to remain living in your own home. (2) Instead of making monthly principal and interest payments on your home (taxes and insurance must still be paid) you can receive monthly payments, a lump sum, a line of credit or a combination to help supplement income based on the equity in your home. (3) A reverse mortgage often can improve quality of life and retirement.

H A PPY NE W Y E A R , EV E RYONE! H A PPY NE W Y E A R , EV E RYONE!

As we begin 2023, we both want to take a minute to say Thank You! We know there are many choices out there for your lumber and hardware needs and we are thankful to our community for choosing to shop local during the year.

This year we celebrate 49 years of serving our customers in Woodburn and several other communities that surround us. As a family-owned business, your patronage and friendship mean so much to us, our families, and our amazing crew. We feel blessed that you place your trust and confidence in our family business to help you with your home project needs.

This last year we added several new items to the store, including Rowe Casa Organics and Lego. Rowe Casa has been a hit with our friends who like natural health products and we have them readily available on the shelf! We have also had so much fun watching all the kids and adults come in to see what Legos are new! We continue to add new Lego’s to the mix as they become available for use to purchase.

We just received a new reset for RapidAir for garage and building air systems. This is a great way to be able to utilize your tools regularly around your shop. We are awaiting a brand-new reset of National Hardware that includes new reinforcement hardware, security hardware, hinges, gate hardware and much more! We should see that in place by the beginning of February.

In March, we will head to the trade show in San Antonio, Texas to see what’s new in the market and to stock up for fall and winter of 2023. We can’t wait to see what we can find there for you!

None of this would be possible without the incredible support we receive from our patrons, so from our family to yours, we say a heartfelt thank you! We look forward to helping you with your projects in the coming year and continuing to build our relationships and friendships with our customers.

Sincerely, Kelly Long, PRESIDENT

Mark Long, VICE PRESIDENT

Woodburn, don’t miss out on Xfinity services!

Supercharge your home with supersonic WiFi, ultra fast and incredibly powerful so you can connect hundreds of devices at once.

Bring home the ultimate entertainment experience and enjoy live TV, sports, DVR, and your favorite streaming apps — all in one place.

Save hundreds a year on your wireless bill over AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile. All on the most reliable 5G network nationwide with Xfinity Mobile.

Based on weighted average of consumer reported savings compared to current charges for top 3 carriers. See xfinity.com/mobile/learn/savings-calculator. Xfinity Internet required. Reduced speeds after 20 GB of usage/line. Actual savings vary.

Restrictions apply. Compatible Xfinity Gateway required. Limited availability. Internet: Actual speeds vary and not guaranteed. Many factors affect speed, including equipment performance, interference, congestion, and speeds of visited websites. WiFi speeds affected by additional factors, including distance from Gateway, home configuration, personal device capabilities, and others. For factors affecting speed visit www.xfinity.com/networkmanagement. Mobile: Not available in all areas. Xfinity Mobile requires residential post-pay Xfinity Internet. Line limitations may apply. $25/line/mo. charge applies if Xfinity TV, Internet or Voice post-pay services not maintained. Pricing subject to change. In times of congestion, your data may be temporarily slower than other traffic. After 20 GB monthly data use, speeds reduced to a maximum of 1.5Mbps download/750 Kbps upload For Xfinity Mobile Broadband Disclosures visit: www.xfinity. com/ mobile/policies/broadband-disclosures. Xfinity Mobile utilizes the network with the most RootMetrics 5G data reliability wins in 2H 2022. Results may vary. Award is not endorsement. Xfinity customers will auto-connect to Xfinity WiFi when available and not use the wireless network. RootMetrics did not test WiFi networks. Results may vary. Award is not endorsement. Xfinity Mobile utilizes the network with the most RootMetrics 5G data reliability wins in 2H 2022. Results may vary. Award is not endorsement. Xfinity customers will auto-connect to Xfinity WiFi when available and not use the wireless network. RootMetrics did not test WiFi networks. Results may vary.Award is not endorsement. TV: Limited basic TV service required to receive other levels of service. Programming subject to change. Viewing will count against any Xfinity data plan. Streaming content limited to the U.S. Call for restrictions and complete details. © 2022 Comcast. All rights reserved. FLY242780