Woodburn Community Advantage Magazine - July 2023

WOODBURN

MEET THE ARTIST

Ethan Hill

COMMUNITY

Hubbard Hops Festival

LOCAL HISTORY

The Marionberry

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CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

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Tyler Francke Olive Gallagher

Angie Helvey Robert Matsumura

Dennis McNabb Kelly Romo

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A Home for History

City crown jewel marks 50 years’ preservation

By Tyler Francke, Contributing Writer

Woodburn and its best-kept secret, the French Prairie Historical Society, will celebrate 50 years of safeguarding the community’s rich history and culture at a Golden Jubilee event in August, hosted at one of the area’s crown jewels, the historic Settlemier House.

All are invited to the Golden Jubilee ceremony to be held on the mansion grounds, located at 355 N. Settlemier Avenue, Aug. 6., 1 to 4 p.m. Light refreshments will be served along with a brief program featuring Woodburn Mayor Frank Lonergan and other community leaders beginning at 2 p.m. — a short message to reserve your spot is appreciated (503-982-1897).

Guided and self-guided tours of the house will be offered. Edwardian-costumed interpreters have been invited to roam the house and grounds to provide a sense of time travel to the event.

Formed in the early ’70s by a forward-looking group of prominent citizens concerned with preserving the rich history of North Marion County known as “The French Prairie,” the society singled out the Jesse Settlemier mansion as the physical embodiment of Woodburn’s beginnings.

The French Prairie Historical Society drew inspiration from Woodburn founder, Jesse Holland Settlemier, who plotted the initial streets and blocks of the city and gave away lots to anyone erecting a permanent structure in the newly formed town.

From humble beginnings as a pioneer nurseryman to the construction of the iconic Settlemier house, Settlemier’s vision and perseverance shaped the destiny of this vibrant community.

The Settlemier House 50th Golden Jubilee

Sunday, August 6 • 1 to 4 p.m. Call to RSVP: 503-982-1897

Born on Feb. 5, 1840, in Alton, Illinois, Jesse Holland Settlemier embarked on a transformative journey across the West with his parents and siblings in 1849.

Even at a young age, Settlemier displayed an entrepreneurial spirit, earning his first modest sum of $1.60 by selling fruit trees that he had cultivated on his family’s claim in Mt. Angel. This early success laid the groundwork for his future endeavors in the nursery business.

Before his 18th birthday, Settlemier, with two of his brothers, established a nursery in Linn County. Their dedication and passion for horticulture grew their nursery into one of the largest on the West Coast. Yet Settlemier yearned for more.

ABOVE: Jesse Holland Settlemier and family in front of the 1892 mansion. RIGHT: An antique postcard depicts a colorized photo of the house.

In March 1863, he purchased a 214acre tract of land in the lower Willamette Valley for a mere five dollars an acre, and with unwavering determination he founded Woodburn Nursery.

It was on this land that Settlemier erected a modest wood-framed farmhouse which was later moved to the intersection of Settlemier Avenue and Arthur Street, to make way for the erection of the current Settlemier mansion which would become an emblematic symbol of his tenacity and vision. This house served as a testament to his entrepreneurial spirit and would witness the flourishing growth of the community around it.

Settlemier’s dedication extended beyond his personal endeavors. In 1871, he platted the first four blocks of what would evolve into downtown Woodburn.

In a magnanimous gesture, he offered free lots to anyone willing to build a business, as well as generous donations of land for a church, school and railroads. His efforts helped shape the early infrastructure of the town and secured its position as a bustling hub of commerce. However, Settlemier’s journey was not without challenges. The land he’d purchased had a flawed title, requiring him to repurchase it at a higher price. Fortunately, his railroad connections enabled him to find the necessary support to pay off his debts and preserve his vision for Woodburn. Tragedy also struck his personal life with the loss of his first two wives. Despite hardships, he persevered, finding solace in his work.

In 1891, Settlemier erected his crowning achievement, a magnificent twelve-room Queen Anne Victorian-Craftsmanstyle home on the corner of Settlemier Avenue and Garfield Street. This opulent house, boasting exquisite architectural details and

surrounded by meticulously landscaped grounds, would be forever etched in the annals of Woodburn’s history.

Today, the Settlemier House stands as a testament to the town’s storied past and holds a revered place on the National Register of Historic Places.

Settlemier’s contributions extended beyond business and construction. In 1885, he became Woodburn’s first mayor, serving two terms and leaving an indelible mark on local governance.

Additionally, he played an active role in politics, participating in county and state conventions, and serving as a state legislator. His passion for horticulture remained unwavering, with his nursery business expanding to serve clients from the Mississippi to Mexico.

After a long and prosperous career, Jesse Holland Settlemier passed away on February 20, 1913, in Portland. His final resting place lies in the old pioneer section of Belle Passi Cemetery in Woodburn, a fitting tribute to the man whose dedication and ambition forever shaped the destiny of the town he loved.

Today, as visitors wander through the enchanting gardens of the Settlemier House, they are transported back in time, connecting with an era that saw the birth of a community.

It was Settlemier’s example of philanthropy that inspired the creation of the French Prairie Historical Society and its ongoing mission of preservation and maintenance of the house, the collection of information related to early Woodburn, plus educational outreach and civic programs.

The French Prairie Historical Society officially took possession of Woodburn’s majestic Queen Anne mansion in February 1973. Since that time, the home has played an active role in the community as a living museum and special occasion venue for civic, public and private events.

For information about group tours and general inquiries, please visit thesettlemierhouse.com.

DAYS OF THE DOG STAR

The ancient origins of summer heat folklore

By Donovan Darling, Staff Writer

Everyone has heard the saying ‘Dog Days of Summer,’ but what are they, when are they, and what does it even mean?

The Dog Days of Summer stretch for 40 days from July 3 to August 11, referring to the especially hot and humid summer months in the Northern Hemisphere, yet their roots began with ancient civilizations.

The Dog Days of Summer coincide with the dawn rising of the star Sirius, also known as the Dog Star. Part of the constellation Canis Majoris (the “Greater Dog”), this is where Sirius gets its canine nickname, as well as its official name Alpha Canis Majoris. Apart from our own Sun, sometimes known as Sol (Latin for “sun”), Sirius is the brightest star in the sky.

Way back in ancient Rome and Greece, the Dog Days of Summer were thought to be a season of drought, unrest, and bad luck, where men and dogs would go mad due to the heat. More so, the combination of Sirius’ light and heat with the Sun’s was thought to affect men and women, animals and plants, even blighting the bark from tree trunks. These days we don’t think of the Dog Days so dramatically – and mostly farmers are concerned with them – but rather, we think of them as a period of peak summer temperatures and humidity.

In ancient Greece, Rome, and Egypt, all known for their extensive knowledge of astronomy and science yet still rooted deeply in folklore and superstition, they believed that the heliacal (“at sunrise”) rising of Sirius during this period caused the blistering seasonal heat. More specifically, that the heat of our own Sun and super-bright Sirius combined caused this “scorching” heat. The name “Sirius,” from the Ancient Greek seírios, even means “scorching.” For the ancient Egyptians specifically, the dawn rising of Sirius (also known as Sothis to the Egyptians) coincided with the flooding of the Nile River, and they used the star as a “barometer” to help predict when the flooding would occur. Contrary to ancient belief, we know now that the dawn rising of Sirius does not affect seasonal weather, but its appearance during the hottest part of summer does keep the folklore of the Dog Days alive and well.

Dog days bright and clear Indicate a good year; But when accompanied by rain, We hope for better times in vain.

(Henry Harrison Chase Dunwoody’s “Proverbs Relating to Months, Weeks, and Days”)

Old-Fashioned Family Fun

Hops festival running strong since 1974

Anyone can be in the parade. “It’s a pretty big mix, whoever wants to come and participate,” Andria says. The Over the Hill Gang Car Club will organize a car show, sponsored by 808 Automotive.

The City of Hubbard will sponsor activities and games for kids too, including face painting, field games, inflatable toys like the bounce house and a 22-foot slide. For the adults, a horseshoe tournament will be sponsored by Justin Stearns State Farm, and there will also be bingo sponsored by Le Petit Bistro, and a raffle with some incredible prizes.

By Angie Helvey, Contributing Writer

Summer in Oregon has finally arrived. It’s a time to spend with family and friends and enjoy the fantastic weather. And the Hubbard Hop Festival is the perfect summer event for families and will include a parade, food and beverage vendors, a beer garden with live entertainment, tons of activities for kids, a 5K run and more!

The Hubbard Hop Festival originated in 1974 and was started by the Hubbard Fire Department as a fundraiser. It’s evolved over the years into a nonprofit organization with a six-member board dedicated to planning and executing a fun community event for all ages. This year’s festival, title-sponsored by Megafoods, will be held on Saturday, July 15, at 11 a.m. in Rivenes Park, right in the center of Hubbard.

“We wanted this to be an event for families,” says board member/treasurer Andria Young. “The theme is old-fashioned family fun, so that’s what it’s all about. Bring the family, have something to eat, play games and enjoy the entertainment.”

The activity roster has something for everyone. The Fun Run, sponsored by Country Financial, is a 5K course around Hubbard. Preregistration is available online, and the run will begin on festival day at 7 a.m. The parade, sponsored by Hubbard Chevrolet, begins at 10 a.m., with pre-registration available online or starting at 9 a.m. on festival day.

No hop festival would be complete without beer, music and food! Hierba Buena will be sponsoring this year’s food court, and Ratchet Brewery will provide drinks in the beer garden with eight different options on tap, including a couple of ciders. The beer garden has no cover charge and is open to families, so everyone can come in and enjoy the entertainment, including a children’s theater group and KAPA Dance. They’ve got three bands lined up on the entertainment stage sponsored by The Kennedy Group RE/MAX: Stepchild with classic rock, Kelsey Bales with some lively country tunes, and Radio Remedy, the perfect band for a dance party. “Bring your lawn chair from home if you’d like, find a place in the shade to sit, grab a drink and some dinner, and kick back and enjoy the evening,” says Andria.

Food vendors will be offering tasty snacks like sausages served up by Hubbard Fire Department, hamburgers, Mexican food, cotton candy, strawberry shortcake, and Kona Ice will be on-site to make sure everyone gets a cold sweet treat!

So take this opportunity to get out, enjoy the sunshine and bring your whole crew to the Hubbard Hop Festival for this family-friendly event and some good old-fashioned fun.

The Hubbard Hop Festival will be held Saturday, July 15 at 11 a.m., in Rivenes Park in Hubbard.

Going Against the Grain

Going Against the Grain

Local artist creates custom wares, furniture and 3D artwork

Local artist creates custom wares, furniture and 3D artwork

By Dennis McNabb, Staff Writer

By Dennis McNabb, Staff Writer

here’s something special about woodwork, isn’t there? Whether it’s the beautiful natural grain, the interesting twists and gnarls that inform its shape, or the knowledge that it was once a living thing, we connect to and appreciate art made of wood in unique and distinctive ways. Particularly here in the Northwest, where our forests are such an integral part of our economy and also our identity, we have an even stronger affinity for the medium. This is what inspired local artist, Ethan Hill, to follow his current path.

TGorgeous, custom-made wood cutting boards, 3D wood art, and wood furniture!

There’s something special about woodwork, isn’t there? Whether it’s the beautiful natural grain, the interesting twists and gnarls that inform its shape, or the knowledge that it was once a living thing, we connect to and appreciate art made of wood in unique and distinctive ways. Particularly here in the Northwest, where our forests are such an integral part of our economy and also our identity, we have an even stronger affinity for the medium. This is what inspired local artist, Ethan Hill, to follow his current path.

Ethan grew up working with his hands. When both his father and a close friend began working with wood, Ethan discovered that he was not only drawn to it but also naturally adept. With no formal training and working only out of his garage, Ethan experimented with an endless variety of methods and outcomes until he found his niche in building cutting boards. Customdesigned to any specifications, his beautiful cutting boards are what put his name on the map. Through mere word-of-mouth, he has built himself an impeccable reputation and an impressive following. And that’s only the tip of the iceberg!

Ethan grew up working with his hands. When both his father and a close friend began working with wood, Ethan discovered that he was not only drawn to it but also naturally adept. With no formal training and working only out of his garage, Ethan experimented with an endless variety of methods and outcomes until he found his niche in building cutting boards. Custom-designed to any specifications, his beautiful cutting boards are what put his name on the map. Through mere word-of-mouth, he has built himself an impeccable reputation and an impressive following. And that’s only the tip of the iceberg!

In recent months, he has added 3D art and furniture to his growing list of offerings. The 3D art pieces are laser-cut, painted and layered images that look absolutely fantastic on your wall! Subjects currently include farm animals, wildlife and landscapes, but he is always expanding. Similarly, the furniture he is currently making is primarily wood (although sometimes reinforced with metal) and restricted to non-cushioned

In recent months, he has added 3D art and furniture to his growing list of offerings. The 3D art pieces are laser-cut, painted and layered images that look absolutely fantastic on your wall! Subjects currently include farm animals, wildlife and landscapes, but he is always expanding. Similarly, the furniture he

is currently making is primarily wood (although sometimes reinforced with metal) and restricted to non-cushioned items like epoxy tables, coffee tables and more. That said, the future holds nothing but open possibilities, and Ethan hopes to expand all of these lines. At some point, he even hopes to move beyond wood to include other mediums.

items like epoxy tables, coffee tables and more. That said, the future holds nothing but open possibilities, and Ethan hopes to expand all of these lines. At some point, he even hopes to move beyond wood to include other mediums.

Beautiful, natural wood art holds a special place in all of our hearts. When it’s done right, there is nothing more striking or original. Every piece has its unique qualities, its own stories to tell. And Ethan Hill is a master of absolutely stunning pieces that you have to see for yourself to believe. Discover this local rising artist now and tell your friends later, “you knew him when…”

Beautiful, natural wood art holds a special place in all of our hearts. When it’s done right, there is nothing more striking or original. Every piece has its unique qualities, its own stories to tell. And Ethan Hill is a master of absolutely stunning pieces that you have to see for yourself to believe. Discover this local rising artist now and tell your friends later, “you knew him when…”

Check out his website at hillsideworkshop.com for more details. You can also find him on Instagram (@Hillsideworkshop) or at the Sherwood Farmers Market.

Check out his website at hillsideworkshop.com for more details. You can also find him on Instagram (@Hillsideworkshop) or at the Sherwood Farmers Market.

Community Outreach

 Kids Bike Rodeo

In coordination with WFD, WPD, the NW Hub and Legacy Trauma

Nurses, the annual spring event teaches children bike safety through an obstacle course. Each child receives a free fitted bike helmet to take home.

 Fill the Boot

WFD career and volunteer members collect money for the Muscular Distrophy Association. The next collection date is scheduled for Aug. 12–13.

 Safety School  Lincoln Elementary School second graders visit the WFD station for a fire safety class. Some of the activities included spraying a house, touring the station and sitting in the fire engine.

 Donkey Basketball

A senior-night fundraiser for the Woodburn High School Class of 2023, this quirky event featured WFD members in a B-Ball battle.

Zucchini Chips & Yogurt-Garlic Dip

Delicious summer snacking

Chip Ingredients

2–3 mediums zucchinis

2 tablespoons avocado oil

2 tablespoons onion powder

2 teaspoons garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon sea salt (plus to taste)

* fresh parsley for garnish

Directions

 Preheat oven to 250°F. Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper.  Using a mandolin slicer, carefully slice the unpeeled zucchinis in 1/8-inch slices, lightly patting the slices with a paper towel or napkin as

you go to remove excess water.  Place slices onto baking sheets; add avocado oil and season with garlic, onion and sea salt. Bake for 11/4 to 11/2 hours. Check chips frequently throughout last 15 to 30 minutes as different slices cook faster depending on location in the oven.  Remove chips once crisped to liking. Add more salt if desired. Sprinkle with parsley.

Dip Ingredients

1 cup Greek yogurt

1 teaspoon chopped fresh parsley

2 cloves of garlic, minced

1/2 teaspoon extra virgin olive oil

* pepitas for garnish

Directions

 Combine all ingredients, giving them a good stir. Refrigerate.  Garnish with pepitas.

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S u m m e r i s a h o t s e a s o n f o r t h e h o u s i n g m a r k e t ! B u y e r s a r e o u t i n f u l l f o r c e , s e a r c h i n g f o r t h e i r p e r f e c t h o m e s . T h e r e a r e m o r e h o u s e s u p f o r g r a b s , g i v i n g b u y e r s p l e n t y o f o p t i o n s B u t i t ' s a c o m p e t i t i v e m a r k e t , s o b e r e a d y f o r b i d d i n g w a r s a n d q u i c k d e c i s i o n s . S e l l e r s c a n t a k e a d v a n t a g e o f t h e i n c r e a s e d d e m a n d a n d p o t e n t i a l l y f e t c h h i g h e r p r i c e s . I t ' s a n e x c i t i n g t i m e w i t h l o t s o f o p p o r t u n i t i e s , s o j u m p i n a n d m a k e y o u r m o v e !

S u m m e r i s a h o t s e a s o n f o r t h e h o u s i n g m a r k e t ! B u y e r s a r e o u t i n f u l l f o r c e , s e a r c h i n g f o r t h e i r p e r f e c t h o m e s . T h e r e a r e m o r e h o u s e s u p f o r g r a b s , g i v i n g b u y e r s p l e n t y o f o p t i o n s . B u t i t ' s a c o m p e t i t i v e m a r k e t , s o b e r e a d y f o r b i d d i n g w a r s a n d q u i c k d e c i s i o n s S e l l e r s c a n t a k e a d v a n t a g e o f t h e i n c r e a s e d d e m a n d a n d p o t e n t i a l l y f e t c h h i g h e r p r i c e s I t ' s a n e x c i t i n g t i m e w i t h l o t s o f o p p o r t u n i t i e s , s o j u m p i n a n d m a k e y o u r m o v e !

O u r t e a m o f a g e n t s a r e h e r e t o m a k e y o u r b u y i n g o r s e l l i n g e x p e r i e n c e a b r e e z e ! W e k n o w t h e i n s a n d o u t s o f t h e s u m m e r m a r k e t a n d a r e r e a d y t o g u i d e y o u e v e r y s t e p o f t h e w a y . W h e t h e r y o u ' r e a b u y e r l o o k i n g f o r y o u r d r e a m h o m e o r a s e l l e r a i m i n g t o m a k e t h e m o s t o f t h e h i g h d e m a n d , w e h a v e t h e e x p e r t i s e a n d d e d i c a t i o n t o h e l p y o u a c h i e v e y o u r g o a l s W i t h o u r p r o a c t i v e a p p r o a c h , e x c e l l e n t c o m m u n i c a t i o n, a n d s t r a t e g i c n e g o t i a t i o n s , w e ' l l e n s u r e y o u g e t t h e b e s t r e s u l t s .

O u r t e a m o f a g e n t s a r e h e r e t o m a k e y o u r b u y i n g o r s e l l i n g e x p e r i e n c e a b r e e z e ! W e k n o w t h e i n s a n d o u t s o f t h e s u m m e r m a r k e t a n d a r e r e a d y t o g u i d e y o u e v e r y s t e p o f t h e w a y . W h e t h e r y o u ' r e a b u y e r l o o k i n g f o r y o u r d r e a m h o m e o r a s e l l e r a i m i n g t o m a k e t h e m o s t o f t h e h i g h d e m a n d , w e h a v e t h e e x p e r t i s e a n d d e d i c a t i o n t o h e l p y o u a c h i e v e y o u r g o a l s . W i t h o u r p r o a c t i v e a p p r o a c h , e x c e l l e n t c o m m u n i c a t i o n, a n d s t r a t e g i c n e g o t i a t i o n s , w e ' l l e n s u r e y o u g e t t h e b e s t r e s u l t s

Oregon’s Own Marionberry

Beloved hybrid berry created in 1940s Oregon

By Robert Matsumura, Contributing Writer

If you’re like many Oregonians, summertime and Marionberries go hand-in-hand. From early July through August, Marionberries are harvested and begin appearing in the produce section of grocery stores, pies and a plethora of other food and drink items. But, did you know that this scrumptious berry did not even exist until the 1940s? Had you walked into a Portland diner in the 1920s and asked for a slice of Marionberry pie, you would have been met with puzzled looks.

While an urban myth circulates that the Marionberry was named for the American politician Marion Barry, the actual origin of this delectable berry traces back to the 1940s when the U.S. Department of Agriculture and Oregon State University collaborated to create a blackberry hybrid like no other. The two organizations have long worked together cross-breeding berries in an effort to produce varieties with greater flavor, fragrance and higher yields. In the Marionberry this collaboration struck pure gold.

It was USDA horticulturist George F. Waldo with the agency’s station in Corvallis, and horticulturists from Oregon State University, who were responsible for bringing us some of our state’s signature berries. One of these was the Hood Strawberry — the favored variety of Oregon berry farmers and local consumers alike. The other berry creation was the Marionberry. This partnership between USDA berry breeders and OSU horticulturists is unique — a true oneof-a-kind collaboration that has spanned over a century and exists nowhere else in the world.

Chad Finn, a USDA-ARS research geneticist who currently occupies Waldo’s previous position in Corvallis, describes Waldo’s pioneering work as, “classical plant breeding,” a process that is “always a combination of art and science.” Finn’s admiration runs deep. “One of the things that I think is lost, really, is that he created a whole crop that never existed before,” Finn explained. “That’s remarkable.

We would be dead in the water without him or somebody like him.” Because much of the early testing for this new berry creation was done in Marion County, it was called the “Marionberry.”

So, what exactly is a Marionberry? The Marionberry is a cross between a Chehalem blackberry (a berry with native blackberry, loganberry and raspberry in its genetics) with an Ollalieberry (another blackberry crossbreed). All that one needs to know, though, is that it is absolutely delicious! Linda Strand of the Oregon Raspberry and Blackberry Commission

George F. Waldo

describes the Marionberry as “sweeter than most other berries, but not overly so.” She shared that “in blind taste tests around the country, people always prefer it. It’s our gold standard in the industry.”

Marionberries are often marketed as being seedless, but, in fact, a seedless berry is actually impossible. Even though one detects no seeds while eating a Marionberry, there are, indeed, extremely flat, thin seeds in the berries that are coated with a gelatinous material that renders them undetectable to the tongue.

According to Bernadine Strik, an OSU professor and leader of the university’s berry research program, “Oregon continues to be known as the premier blackberry growing region in the world,” she proclaims. “It’s a fact.” And of all types of blackberries grown in Oregon, the Marionberry still reigns supreme, called by some the “Cabernet of blackberries.” The Marionberry accounts for approximately 25% of the state’s berry production, which is an impressive accomplishment for a variety that was developed over 50 years ago, and must continually compete with newer rivals bred to topple the Marionberry from its throne.

So popular was the Marionberry that in 2009 an effort was made to make it the official state berry. Many legislators supported the initiative, but ultimately the proposal was abandoned when a prominent berry producer insisted that focus on a specific berry variety might damage the sales of others. And while the Marionberry didn’t achieve official status as the state berry, the Pacific Northwest and Oregon in particular still maintain supremacy in the

production of this highly prized berry.

Not only do the Willamette Valley’s cool, mild winters and warm, temperate summers create the ideal climate for berries to thrive in, but decades of Marionberry cultivation have resulted in the development of harvesting techniques specifically designed for obtaining the optimal yield. Marionberries are delicate by nature, and in order to maintain consistent flavor and texture — particularly for processed products — specialized technology is employed to ensure only ripe berries

of Marionberries. And while Marionberries are still a wildly popular treasure of summer, the cultivation of these marvels of the berry world pose a number of challenges. Since

are harvested (unlike other berry types which are harvested in large batches without such care). During the compressed four-week season that commences with Independence Day, Marionberries are picked every few days with finely calibrated row machines that vibrate at designated frequencies causing only the ripe berries to detach themselves from the plants for collection.

It is this combination of ideal climate combined with specialized harvesting technology that has limited the production of Marionberries to this region. Other areas of the country lack either the climate and/or harvesting technology which are critical for successful commercial production

Marionberries are thorny, hand-picking is difficult (requiring specialized machinery as noted above), and they are less cold-tolerant than other varieties, which can affect variances in production volume. These are a few of the challenges horticulturists are striving to solve through selective breeding and experimentation.

If you’re wondering about the difference between Marionberries and blackberries, here’s a simple rule of thumb: Not all blackberries are Marionberries, but all Marionberries are a type of blackberry. Visually, Marionberries are more oblong, and tend to be sweeter and juicier than blackberries, and in general a bit firmer.

So, the next time you’re enjoying a slice of Marionberry pie or, perhaps, a Marionberry ice cream cone on a warm summer day, remember George F. Waldo and the many hard-working horticulturists at the USDA and Oregon State University who over the years have created this delectable true Oregon original, and are still striving to develop new delicious berries for future generations.

Fiesta Mexicana

Celebrating local family and culture

By Patti Jo Brooks, Contributing Writer

Woodburn’s 59th annual Fiesta Mexicana, celebrating local family and culture, will take place Aug. 18–20 in Woodburn’s Legion Park. Founded in 1964 to mark the end of the harvest season, Fiesta Mexicana was recognized in 2017 as an Oregon heritage tradition. The largest event the city holds each year, it serves as a platform for the Fiesta Mexicana Court activities. From the Fiesta’s inception, the Court has been a prominent feature and the festival has evolved to become an avenue for building leadership, mentorship and giving back to the community.

“The Fiesta Court program provides participants the opportunity to develop their existing skills as well as introduces new opportunities to learn and grow, empowering the next generation of leaders to be skilled and compassionate. Many

of the young women serving as this year’s princesses are first generation students, with their families and community meaning the world to them. The values possessed by these young ladies, as well as their passion to share their culture with others and their determination to give back to their community, is truly a testament of the amazing leaders they will become,” says Yanira Herrera, community relations manager.

Comprised of seniors from the local district high schools, the Fiesta Mexicana Court demonstrates commitment to academics, community service and performance during official Fiesta Court functions. Woodburn welcomes the Fiesta Mexicana Court Princesses of 2023.

FIESTA MEXICANA 2023 COURT

AMIEE ENRIQUEZ LOPEZ

Woodburn H.S.

“Being in the Fiesta Court has been something that I’ve been wanting to do since elementary school. Having the opportunity to show where I come from and what I can bring into this community as a first-generation member in my family has been something extraordinary.” Amiee is an Adventures Club volunteer for the Woodburn Library and a member of the Honors Society, Mujeres Club and American Eagle.

SINAI REYES ALONSO

Gervais H.S.

“I attended a small school and I’ve performed at events. I want to continue being in front of an audience and still have confidence in myself. I love volunteering because I love helping others. It makes me proud of myself.” Sinai was in Aguilas de Oro for four years; it kept her closer to her culture and helped her open up. She also participated in Latino Night, Mayfest, volleyball and volunteered at home games.

HANNAH LOPEZ

Woodburn H.S.

“Volunteering

for me because I get to help people that are in need. I always say, ‘If you want to make a better world, start from yourself.’” Hannah led the Dance team her junior year and received a varsity letter for Best Dancer. Senior year she was cheer captain and awarded Best Performer. She achieved outstanding performance in English class and earned the bi-literacy seal.

LUCIANA ESCALONA GOMEZ

Woodburn H.S.

“As someone who has struggled with social anxiety, I found it hard to engage with others around me which led me to isolate myself. Due to my desire to improve, I am less fearful of seeking new experiences and helping out others in my community.” Luciana was elected Vice President of M.E.Ch.A. She is a member of TURNO, JUNTOS, Anahuac, Link Crew, Senior Committee and National Honor Society.

KIMBERLY HERRERA

Woodburn H.S.

“I am interested in being part of the Fiesta Court because I want other young girls to recognize and embrace who they are within their culture without feeling shamed, and to give them the reassurance that they don’t need to look or think a certain way to apply and accept an opportunity of any kind.” Her activities at Woodburn High School include Pep Band, Mariachi and theatre.

JOANNA UNDERWOOD

Woodburn H.S.

“I would like to give back to the community, just as they have to us when we needed it the most. Volunteering helps improve my sense of purpose.”

Joanna volunteers at the Salem Capitol working alongside the representatives and senators; she even met Teresa Alonzo. She participated in a three-day camping trip with the FFA officer team to learn what it is to live in nature, adapt outdoors and create new bonds.

JENNIFER GOMEZ PENA

North Marion H.S.

“I am interested in being a part of Fiesta Court because of the opportunity it provides to deepen the connection between my culture and the community. It is a chance to grow my leadership skills and be a strong advocate and role model who can inspire and motivate others.” Jennifer is 2023 senior class salutatorian, was accepted for George Fox’s selective Honors program and dances Folklorico.

VIVIANA FREGOSO MATA

Woodburn H.S.

“To me, volunteering/ community service is a way for someone to aid their community truly. It reflects a person’s willingness to help others regardless of the reward.” Viviana held a 4.0 GPA in high school while maintaining positions as President of NHS, Captain of WHS Varsity Dance, Senior Committee Member, Link Crew, Dia de los Ninos Celebration Volunteer (2022) and more.

NEIDA ROBLES

Woodburn H.S.

“I am interested in being involved with the Fiesta because I want to be more actively involved with the community while developing my leadership skills that will later be practiced along my life journey.”

Neida was also involved with Latinos Unidos Siempre, a youth-led grassroots organization based in Salem, Capaces Leadership Institute, Anahuac and TURNO. She participated in Dance for four years as well.

and community service is really important

&

Pre sents

August 18 - 20, 2023

59Years

Enjoy

LEGION PARK IN WOODBURN

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Opening Doors

Garage door installation, repair and maintenance

to help our customers decide which door they would like,” Ryan notes. Some of the more popular residential selections are insulated Classic™ Steel and Modern Steel™ doors. Various styles are available to complement both the home’s architecture and the customer’s preferences. All-glass doors are also very popular today. They have a great modern look and eye-catching curb appeal. Whatever style you desire, whether a simple steel door or a custom designed wood door, Oregon City Garage Door has the door for you!

By Patti Jo Brooks, Contributing Writer

Photos by Brittney Waterman

Let Oregon City Garage Door

Open the Door for You!

Experts in residential and commercial overhead garage doors, they will install, repair and maintain your new or existing garage door. Serving the Greater Portland Area and SW Washington, Oregon City Garage Door takes care of everything from a squeaky door or broken spring to custom installation and repairs for large commercial properties.

When you call Oregon City Garage Door, “You’re calling a professional,” says owner Ryan Dissen. Focused on customer service and fast turnaround time, many repairs are handled with same-day service. “We have 11 vehicles stocked and ready to go,” Ryan points out. New doors manufactured by Clopay (American-made and American-owned), can be scheduled for installation once they arrive at the local distribution center in Portland. Depending on the make and model, some doors are already in stock. Custom orders may take around three to four weeks to reach the local warehouse.

If you’re shopping for a new door, stop by Oregon City Garage Door and view a first-hand demonstration of one of their fully-operating doors. With the ease of a garage door opener, you’ll see how smoothly the installed door opens and closes. The showroom also features additional doors, representing four different styles on a sliding track for easy viewing. “We have samples, brochures and literature

A company that specializes in commercial projects as well, Oregon City Garage Door has every size and purpose of industrial door available — garage, bay or service door — including roll-ups and security grills. With a team of estimators on hand, commercial and residential estimates for new projects are completed in just a day or two. Follow up text messages are a way for clients to rate their overall experience. Watch for or ask about any current discounts, coupons or specials.

Family-owned and -operated, Ryan Dissen purchased the Oregon City Garage Door business from its previous owner in 2006. “We started as a one-man show seventeen years ago working out of the garage, and over the years continued to grow the company,” Ryan explains. Now, 17 years later, the business is run from a brick-and-mortar building owned by Ryan that includes a showroom and approximately seventeen employees. Ryan’s son, Tyler, is one of the company’s commercial installers. Ryan believes in treating everyone like family. Employees enjoy barbeques, birthdays and holiday celebrations. New hires often come through referrals because the employees like working there so much and are quick to make a recommendation.

Ryan grew up in Oregon City and graduated from Oregon City High School in 1996. He enlisted in the Air Force and worked in the munitions systems career field before taking over the Oregon City Garage Door business. Ryan also has a daughter who had worked for him in the office prior to following her father’s footsteps and joining the Air Force. Ryan continues his close ties to the community through membership, donations and fundraisers for the Oregon City Elks Lodge Christmas Basket program. Donations have also been made to La Salle High School for their softball hitting facility in which Oregon City Garage Door donated labor and installation services to accompany R&S Manufacturing’s donated garage door.

Stop by the Oregon City Garage Door showroom located at 16000 SE Evelyn St. in Clackamas. Call (503) 420-5168 or visit their website at oregoncitygaragedoor.com for more information.

Bettering Small Business

Grant received for North Marion businesses

The North Marion Business Services Alliance (the Alliance) is a grassroots group comprised of city and business leaders collaborating to provide resources and assistance to small businesses and entrepreneurs in North Marion County. The Alliance partners include the cities of Donald, St. Paul, Aurora, Hubbard, Gervais, Brooks, Silverton, Mt. Angel, Scotts Mills, and Woodburn. Agency partners in the Alliance include (but are not limited to) Business Oregon, Marion County, SBDC, Chambers of Commerce, WorkSource Oregon, Willamette Workforce Partnership, Secretary of State plus many more.

The City of Woodburn, on behalf of the Alliance, received a Business Oregon Rural Opportunity Initiatives (ROI) grant for the North Marion Partnership Project. This Project entailed convening business resource and service partners to identify

where there are “gaps’” in providing assistance to North Marion businesses. In addition, the Project conducted outreach and surveyed North Marion small businesses. This endeavor focused primarily on those businesses with 50 or less employees with an emphasis on Latino/Latinx-owned businesses. After conducting outreach (via mailer and email) to more than 1,300 small businesses and receiving 80+ survey responses, we were able to conclude that there is a tremendous gap in awareness of services and resources available to businesses and that additional efforts are needed to connect small businesses to resources, specifically in multilingual formats.

To address this need, we offered Business Resource Fairs designed to allow businesses to meet with service and resource providers one-on-one, receive information and schedule follow-up meetings and/or calls. Translators were on-site to ensure language was not a barrier to receiving information or services. Two Business Resource Fairs were held in the North Marion County region, an evening event was held in Brooks and a daytime event was held in Woodburn, both hosted by Chemeketa Community College.

To continue to ensure equity and access to resources, the Explore North Marion Business website was developed. Here businesses can find information and resource programs, assistance, and referrals. Visit the website at nmc-works.com.

DISCOVERING

Tres Generaciones

LA MORENITA TORTILLERIA FAMILY OPENS WOODBURN FACILITY

Learn

STORY BY PATTI JO BROOKS

Locals know La Morenita Tortilleria as Woodburn’s tortilla factory that sells authentic Mexican cuisine to go. Always hot. Always delicious. Order ahead or just walk in. Food is sold by the pound, prepared fresh daily and satisfaction is 100% guaranteed.

Established in Woodburn nearly 30 years ago, the tortilleria is a family-owned company with deep roots in the community going back three generations. In addition to local retail sales, its wholesale branch serves the greater Portland area to Eugene.

An enterprise that values quality, commitment and growth, La Morenita Tortilleria, Inc. was named FamilyOwned Business of the Year in 2017

by the Small Business Administration Portland District Office. Continuing on that path, La Morenita Tortilleria is excited to expand its base of operations locally with a new building in Woodburn that will house the tortilla production for wholesale manufacturing and distribution. The new facility, which is being constructed from the ground up, will utilize Comcast — a more recent addition to the Woodburn community — to provide all their communications services for the new location.

A rich history and unique blend of family-owned and -operated business tradition paired with

Discovering Woodburn is sponsored by our friends at Comcast Business.

WOODBURN AND BEYOND Discovering Woodburn and Beyond highlights the best the Woodburn area has to offer, including businesses, nonprofits and residents making a difference.

more about the Diaz family, owners of La Morenita Tortilleria in Woodburn.

Founder of La Morenita Tortilleria Inc. Miguel Diaz Sr. with his wife, Juana, along with sons/co-owners Miguel Jr., Gilberto and Guillermo in front of their tortilla factory that once housed the post office in downtown Wooburn.

timeless family recipes and longevity in the local community is what truly sets this company apart. Founded in 1994 by Miguel Diaz Sr. and his wife, Juanita, they continued the family business model that began in Mexico in 1964, originating with Miguel Sr.’s father. Since that time, Miguel Sr.’s three sons, Miguel Jr., Gilberto and Guillermo, have joined the company as co-owners. Miguel Sr. and Juanita can still be found at the factory working alongside their sons and their high-school-age grandchildren who love to help out when they can. “We’ve been in the tortilla business all our lives,” says Gilberto, who shares candidly about his dad, Miguel Sr. “He’s there every day. He tells us what to do and what not to do,” Gilberto says with a chuckle. “We try to keep him from working too much, to keep him healthy.”

A producer and retailer of authentic Mexican cuisine, La Morenita Tortilleria provides high-quality, fresh food products “bursting with authentic, bold flavors.” Carnitas and barbacoa

are just two of the mouth-watering choices they have to offer. Tortillas, burrito shells, tostadas and tortilla chips are available in both flour and corn, enabling customers to choose what best suits their needs. “We’re here to have people come and enjoy it!” Gilberto says.

Open weekdays, 6 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.; Saturday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.; and Sunday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., La Morenita

Tortilleria is not a restaurant — there’s no place to sit and eat — and that’s not going to change.

“People like to walk in and ask, ‘Can I have

two pounds of carnitas and a whole chicken?’ People like the perspective of buying by the pound. Other places don’t do that.”

La Morenita Tortilleria is committed to supporting local business and the community. They source their meats from a nearby Carlton meat supplier and purchase other ingredients locally whenever possible. In addition to the family members who work at the factory, La Morenita Tortilleria hires local employees to round out its staff. In further support of the community, they partner with the Fire Marshall for events and have sponsored local youth baseball. They also host school tours, showing the tortilla process. Schools are really excited to schedule a tour, often bringing five to six classes during the day.

“We like Woodburn,” says Gilberto. “We’ve been part of the community since 1994.” And the community likes La Morenita Tortilleria!

Get fresh tortillas or other authentic Mexican foods of the highest quality at a great price at La Morenita Tortilleria.

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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.

Everything you need in one place

At Salem Health’s clinic in Woodburn, there’s no need to leave your urgent care visit to get X-rays or laboratory tests. Everything is right here in the same building.

Our full-service clinic is home to a friendly care team that takes your comfort and safety seriously.

Save yourself an extra trip and choose the clinic that respects the value of your time. Choose Salem Health Medical Clinic – Woodburn.

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