Woodburn Community Advantage Magazine February 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

Hilary Berg, Sr. Graphic Designer

Holly Darling, Sr. Graphic Designer

Brittany Jungenberg, Sr. Graphic Designer

Shawn Schmidt, Sr. Graphic Designer

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Tyler Francke Dennis McNabb

David Bates Robert Matsumura

Patti Jo Brooks Olive Gallagher

Angie Helvey Sherry Dorn

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Carly Carpenter Kara Langley

Laurel Bice Hayley Starkey

Malaina Kinne Angie Helvey

Brittney Waterman Henry Schifter

Andrew Sambuceto Tyler Francke

ADVERTISING SPECIALISTS

Don Ormsby Bill Kistler

Stephanie Baker Jim Belan

Peggy Jacobs David Long

Chris O’Brien John Zobrist

Brad Marti Shelley Zeman

Tina Toney Darren Dwyer

Ashley Berotte Mary Kay Wiens

The Luck of the Irish

By Donovan Darling, Staff Writer

Irish culture–a blend of folklore, superstition, and Catholic beliefs–is known for their lucky symbols like shamrocks, leprechauns, and horseshoes. But the phrase ‘the luck of the Irish’ wasn’t actually about good luck–originally it was bad luck! This was due, according to Elizabeth Stack, Executive Director of the Irish American Heritage Museum, to the high fatalities of Irish laborers during the gold rush. A big reason for these modern lucky symbols is due to Irish immigration into the U.S., as the Irish brought symbols of their culture as a means of comfort in a strange new land. And of course, like storytelling, the symbols changed over time. These days, the luck of the Irish is legendary and their symbols are popular worldwide.

Shamrock vs. Four-Leaf Clover

You may not know this (I didn’t!), but shamrocks are not the same as four-leaf clovers. Shamrocks actually have three leaves, grow in clumps, and come in green, purple, or white. Whereas clovers grow alone, usually do not have four leaves, and thus four leaf-leaf clovers (as we know) are extremely rare. The shamrock is the true Irish symbol of luck, as St. Patrick used the shamrock, which has three leaves, to describe the Holy Trinity. Yet, for some reason, perhaps due to its rarity, the four-leaf clover took over as the more popular symbol.

Leprechaun

The leprechaun, which we know from pop culture, may be rooted in the Irish belief of fairies, who supposedly live among us but stay hidden with magic. Interestingly, the leprechaun is believed to be one class of fairy among many, not a stand-alone magical creature. The leprechaun, of course, is a widely recognizable symbol, known as the mascot of Notre Dame Fighting Irish and Lucky Charms, but especially known are the potential rewards of finding a leprechaun and getting a pot of gold at the end of the rainbow. So much so that there are countless designs for kids’ leprechaun traps online, but they are more for fun and celebration than catching the real magical creature.

Horseshoes

Horseshoes are definitive in Irish culture for many reasons. In folklore, the devil appears at a blacksmith and demands shoes, so the blacksmith nails burning hot shoes to his hooves. The devil walks away in pain and swears to keep away from them forever, thus the idea of horseshoes warding off evil spirits. Additionally, early Western Europeans believed iron was magical and could drive away evil, such as malevolent fairies and witches–which is why witches ride broomsticks, not horses. Then there’s the number of holes in horseshoes, seven, known worldwide as lucky: seven continents, seven colors in the rainbow, seven seas, seven days of the week. And there are 2 ways you can hang a horseshoe for good luck. Hanging a horseshoe heels up (like a U) keeps the good luck from running out of the shoe and inside the building. And hanging a horseshoe heels down allows good luck to flow down on everyone who walks underneath it. Sometimes people would even bury a horseshoe under the cornerstone of a new building for good luck.

Brooklyn (2015)

With the screenplay written by powerhouse Nick Hornby (Fever Pitch, About A Boy) and based on the novel by Colm Tóibín, this rich historical drama/ romance is set in 1950s Brooklyn, where an Irish immigrant woman lands and quickly falls in love with a local New Yorker. Her complicated past catches up with her (as it always does), and she is forced to choose between the lives she has built within Ireland and America. Featuring stunning performances from Saoirse Ronan and Emory Cohen, this emotional love-story will pull you into another world for a solid 2 hours. Rated PG-13 for mature content.

Darby O’Gill and the Little People (1959)

Out of long-ago 1959, this Technicolor (full color!) Disney movie is a rare gem set in a small Irish village. Darby O’Gill (Albert Sharpe) is fired as caretaker of his leased farm and he refuses to tell his daughter Katie (Janet Munro), especially when he’s been replaced by a brawny younger man, played by Sean Connery. On his way home from the pub, Darby falls into a portal to a secret land of the little people (leprechauns). He meets the leprechaun king, Brian (Jimmy O’Dea), and accidentally brings him home. As Darby has trapped him (that’s the trick), he demands that Brian grant him three wishes, bringing Darby bittersweet and surprising results. Funny, sweet, and surprisingly thoughtful, this is great for the whole family. Rated G.

Dancing At Lughnasa (1998)

We love an Irish country drama and this is exactly that. This stars the queen of the silver screen herself, Meryl Streep, who plays the oldest of five sisters living together in a quaint house in Ireland in 1936. Kate (Streep) is the only sister with a job, and she does her best to wrangle her sisters’ battling personalities. All unmarried and Christina’s (Catherine McCormack) young boy Michael living with them, the household is a balanced chaos. That is until their foolish brother Jack (Michael Gambon) shows up, followed by Michael’s father Gerry (Rhys Ifans). A stellar cast, atmospheric drama, and gorgeous Irish scenery, this is a fantastic movie flying under the radar. Rated PG for mature themes, so treat it like a light PG-13.

Song of the Sea (2014)

This critically-acclaimed, hand-drawn fantasy was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Animated Feature, and also is the second movie from Secret of Kells director Tomm Moore and animation studio Cartoon Saloon. Featuring the voice of Brendan Gleeson (Mad Eye Moody from Harry Potter) among others, this follows an Irish boy (David Rawle) who discovers that his mute sister is a selkie (seal folk) and that she needs to find her voice and release supernatural creatures from a Celtic goddess’s magic spell (Fionnula Flanagan). Steeped in Celtic folklore and myth, narrative depth, and visual beauty, it boldly deals with sorrow and loss with masterful grace and whimsy. A must watch for families. Rated PG.

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

DISCOVERING WOODBURN AND BEYOND Discovering

ALL ABOARD FOR FUN & LEARNING

rom Oaxaca, Mexico, Monserrat PantojaRamirez was only 16 when she came to the U.S. At age 18, in 2004, she began her child-care career in Woodburn at Head Start, a program through the Oregon Child Development Coalition. In 2010, she started her formal studies in early childhood education, earning an associate’s degree two years later. With a diploma in hand, Monserrat — Monse (Mont-say) to her friends and colleagues — was promoted to supervisor at Head Start before applying for and accepting the position as director of the Woodburn Family Learning Center (WFLC) in 2015. She’s been leading the nonprofit ever since.

Established in 1969, WFLC is unique in that it remains the only certified daycare center in the city and that its inception was servicing migrant families who otherwise had no daycare options. In 1978, WFLC moved to its current location on Newberg Highway, where the tradition of helping migrant and low-income families continues with a sliding scale for all-income families. Most of WFLC’s children come from Hispanic homes, which is no surprise considering the organization’s history and Woodburn’s demographics.

WOODBURN FAMILY LEARNING CENTER

Discovering Woodburn is sponsored by our friends at Comcast Business.

Woodburn and Beyond highlights the bes t the Woodburn area has to offer, including residents, businesses, and nonprofits making a difference.

The Woodburn Family Learning Center remains a vital community partner in caring for children so their parents can make a living and a life for their families.

TOP LEFT: WFLC care providers celebrate the proud preschool graduates. TOP RIGHT: A stuffed piñata makes for holiday fun.

WOODBURN AND BEYOND

From six weeks to 12 years, the babies and children, currently numbering 58, are well tended by a group of 13 certified providers — including Monse — dedicated to their care and development.

At WFLC, there are five rooms, starting with infants (6 weeks to 15 months). Once the babies start walking, they move to the toddler room. From there, the children move into pre-preschool followed by preschool (typically 3 to 5 years). The final group represents the schoolage children (5 to 12 years) who come before and after school, and during school breaks.

Besides playing on the playground, building with blocks, reading books, crafting and making art, participating in games, assembling puzzles, playing dressup, experiencing sensory activities and making social connections, the children learn routine and a structured environment, preparing them for school. For instance, standing in line and making sure to wash hands become second nature by the time kindergarten arrives.

Since WFLC cares for Hispanic

children, both Spanish and English are used and taught, too. The nonSpanish-speaking kids (20%) in the preschool learn some Spanish — seen as a bonus by those daycare parents — and the sole Spanish speakers (50%) learn some English, which is essential for their futures in the local school districts. About 30% of the kids are already bilingual.

While the board of directors helps keep the nonprofit on solid ground, there are times when more help is necessary, which is when donations are essential. Only a few years ago, WFLC was in danger of closing because of several leaks in the roof, not to mention the heat pump/air conditioning calling it quits. At the suggestion of the board, WFLC sold a portion of the massive playground, in order to pay for the repairs and more. These days, finances are stable, but donations are always welcome.

Thanks to individuals and organizations, especially the Woodburn Rotary Club, Woodburn Kiwanis, Woodburn Chamber

of Commerce and the Women’s United Group at Woodburn United Methodist Church, WFLC continues its mission to help families work while giving the children a safe place to learn and play.

If you or someone you know is seeking daycare at WFLC, there is a lengthy waiting list, but Monse encourages anyone interested to contact the center. If you would like to donate to WFLC, including books, games, blankets, etc., contact Monse as well. See below.

ABOVE: The brightly-colored preschool room. BELOW: Preschool sensory and creative play.

PET TIPS FOR

By Donovan Darling, Staff Writer

GREEN BEER & BREWS

Green beer is very common at bars and restaurants on St. Patrick’s Day, and alcohol even more so. Of course, any color of alcohol is a no go for your furry friends, as well as food coloring. If pets consume alcohol it causes intoxication within the hour, including depression, wobbly walking, and stomach ache. In large amounts, it causes aspiration pneumonia. Like all things, keep alcohol out of reach if your pets are around. Or you can put your pet in a quiet space away from the alcohol.

CELEBRATE!

Holidays shouldn’t just be “things to avoid” for pets, because there’s plenty of fun they can have with you. Get them dressed up in a green shirt, bandana, a hat, or other pet-friendly accessories. Bake or buy them petfriendly St. Patrick’s treats. Take them to a St. Patrick’s Day parade. Give them a doggy beer–this is real!–there are plenty of alcohol-free, dog-friendly meat-based drinks in the market. Do a photoshoot. Plan a trip to a park or a hike.

UNLUCKY SHAMROCKS

Who doesn’t love a shamrock plant? These fun and bright green plants make for great gifts and add a festive presence to your home. However, like many houseplants, these are actually quite toxic for pets. In small amounts, they can cause drooling, head shaking, and stomach ache; in large amounts, decreased blood calcium and kidney damage. But thankfully, the plant tastes bitter to deter most pets from eating. So if you do have a shamrock in your home, keep it out of reach, well-watered, with plenty of sunshine .

HAZ UNA CARRERA EMPIEZA EN TU LOCALIDAD

Nuestros mejores talentos son DE ORIGEN LOCAL.

¿Buscas hacer una carrera gratificante con oportunidades de crecimiento y progreso?

Interfor Molalla puede ser el lugar para ti.

$21.25/hr Salario inicial

Paquete de beneficios competitivo, que incluye médico, dental, visión, Short-Term Disability, 401k y Profit Share

$3,000 Bono de inicio, pagado en incrementos durante el primer año

#StartHereGoFar (#ComienzaAquíLlegaLejos)

Presenta tu solicitud en línea en: Interfor.com/careers

Presenta tu solicitud en persona los martes de 9:00 am a 2:00 pm

BUILD A CAREER START LOCAL

Our best talent is HOMEGROWN.

Looking to build a rewarding career with opportunity for growth and advancement?

Interfor Molalla might be the place for you!

$21.25/hr Starting wage

Competitive benefit package, which includes medical, dental, vision, Short-Term Disability, 401k and Profit Share

$3,000 Signing bonus, paid in increments over first year

#StartHereGoFar

Apply online at: Interfor.com/careers

Apply in-person on Tuesdays from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm

Schuyler Family Dentistry & Orthodontics

By Patti Jo Brooks, Contributing Writer

Smiles are a cherished form of communication. Think of your own mother’s smile, or maybe your dad’s, or that hard-to-please teacher’s when you got it so right. Schuyler Family Dentistry & Orthodontics is about far more than general dentistry. Developing and maintaining a healthy smile can go a long way towards one’s overall health and well-being. A healthy mouth is necessary for a healthy body, and a confident smile can hold the key to a successful connection.

Cleanings, crowns, fillings, and root canals, Schuyler Family Dentistry & Orthodontics (pronounced Sky-ler) performs all the basics. In addition, Schuyler Family Dentistry & Orthodontics is proud to be a certified Invisalign® provider. This innovative orthodontic process of straightening teeth with a virtually invisible correction appliance is a “convenient and comfortable option to achieve the smile you’ve always wanted.” Among the host of additional procedures and treatments offered are singlevisit CEREC® tooth restorations, and KÖR® Whitening Deep Bleaching System which “can restore the beauty of your smile in just two weeks.”

Growing up in a small rural town along the Oregon coast, Dr. Joshua Schuyler relates how his youthful memories steered him towards dentistry. “I had a really good experience with my orthodontist,” he says. “As a kid, I personally benefited from braces, so that was always something I was interested in.” During college he continued an interest in healthcare, enjoying both the hands-on and the artistic side as well as the scientific aspect of dentistry. Holding a B.S. in biology from Oregon State University and a Doctorate in Medical Dentistry from OHSU, Doctor Joshua Skyler developed a practice which has served the Woodburn community since 2008. He has recently added a Hubbard location to the practice. Dr. Schuyler’s wife, Nirvana, is also a dentist, and owns a practice in Tigard.

Dedicated to improving smiles and providing the most comprehensive care available, Dr. Schuyler strives to provide everything possible under one roof. Associate

dentists are upbeat, experienced, and kind. Employees enjoy a warm and friendly work environment and love to socialize outside the office as well. Team Building events include scavenger hunts, lunches, and art events such as making tie-dyed bags for orthodontic patients to take home. Community involvement includes sponsorships for North Marion and Woodburn schools, as well as local canned food and toy drives.

During March 22 – March 31, Woodburn School District’s Spring Break, Schuyler Family Dentistry & Orthodontics invites you to take advantage of this time off school and plan a free orthodontic consultation, or a follow-up orthodontic appointment. Call today to schedule!

Schuyler Family Dentistry & Orthodontics is located at 1325 N Pacific Hwy. in Woodburn. Call (503) 902-4911 or visit their website at schuylerfamilydentistry.com.

" One of the most exciting aspects of dentistry is how it is constantly advancing. Research leads to technological innovations, new materials, and changes to techniques. I love furthering my knowledge and skills to better serve our patients." - Dr. Joshua Schuyler

It's that time of year again - spring is here and with it comes an opportunity to get the best price for your home.

Listing between March and May has several major benefits; increased competition between buyers, tax refunds, and cheerful weather just to name a few!

We tend to see more buyers this time of year, which could mean multiple offers and higher demand for your home.

Historically, Historically, Historically, properties listed properties listed properties listed before April 15th before April 15th before April 15th have the highest have the highest have the highest closed prices of closed of closed prices of the year the year the year

A new chunk of money in buyers hands can help them take the leap towards home ownership. Tax refunds can mean higher earnest money deposits, greater down payments or even more willingness to take on small repairs on their own instead of having the sellers fix it!

More daylight hours and flourishing landscaping in the Spring means potential buyers are seeing your house in a more inviting way, full of potential for them

I can get you started in the listing process right away.

offer shows you're motivated to make the move-plus no mad rush to get your home listed!

submitting your

Listing Agreements

are critical for both the property owner and agent

CATION MENT

A listing agreement is a contract between a property owner and an agent or broker that details the services provided in order to list, market, and sell the owner's property. It details the terms, conditions, and fees associated with the sale of the property, and outlines the responsibilities of both the owner and the agent or broker.

Before signing a listing agreement, both parties should read it carefully and make sure they have a clear understanding of the terms. The listing agreement should include details about the property, such as:

address

square footage

number of bedrooms and bathrooms

It should also include specific details about the services the agent or broker will provide, such as advertising, open houses, and buyer showings The agreement should specify any fees due to the agent or broker, such as a commission or advertising costs, and it should also include deadlines, such as when the property must be listed and how long it will be listed for.

Exclusive Right to Sell

This listing arrangement gives the listing broker (or agent) the exclusive right to market the property and receive a commission when the property is sold. The seller agrees to pay the commission even if the buyer is found through other means

Exclusive Agency Listing

This listing arrangement gives the listing broker (or agent) the exclusive right to market the property and receive a commission when the property is sold However, the seller retains the right to sell the property on their own and not have to pay the commission if they are able to find a buyer themselves.

www.livinglocalnw.com

What type of listing agreement matters! Be sure to ask your agent if you have questions!

Two most common types

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.

Irish Soda Bread

INGREDIENTS

4 cups all-purpose flour

½ cup butter, softened

4 tablespoons white sugar

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 tablespoon baking powder

½ teaspoon salt

1 cup buttermilk

1 egg

¼ cup butter, melted

¼ cup buttermilk

Optional: Currants or raisins

DIRECTIONS

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a large baking sheet.

2. Mix flour, softened butter, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, and salt together in a large bowl. Stir in 1 cup of buttermilk and egg. Add currants or raisins if desired. Turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead slightly. Form dough into a round and place on the prepared baking sheet.

3. Combine melted butter with 1/4 cup buttermilk in a small bowl; brush loaf with this mixture. Use a sharp knife to cut an ‘X’ into the top of the loaf.

4. Bake in preheated oven until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean, 45 to 50 minutes. Check for doneness after 30 minutes. You may continue to brush the loaf with the butter mixture while it bakes.

Top with butter or honey butter.

This classic Irish soda bread is perfect for St. Patrick’s Day, but you’ll want to make it all year long.

WORD SEARCH SUDOKU

Difficulty: Easy

© 2020 KrazyDad.com | Reprinted here with permission.

Fill in the blank squares so that each row, each column and each 3-by-3 block contain all of the digits 1 thru 9. Use logic and solve the puzzle without guesswork. For puzzle solving tips, and more puzzles, visit KrazyDad.com.

2022March

WOLFER FAMILY HISTORY:

THE LOST TALE OF ‘WOLFER’S PRAIRIE’

By Tyler Francke, Contributing Writer

Longtime Canby residents may be familiar that before Canby was officially named “Canby,” the town was instead known as Baker Prairie, a name that lives on today in the likes of Baker Prairie Middle School and Baker’s Prairie Bakery.

But very few will know the tale of the neighboring settlement of Wolfer’s Prairie. Though little known, the story of the Wolfer family certainly deserves to be told and remembered. It’s the story of what was once one of the area’s most prominent pioneer families — and one that dovetails with many of the region’s, and even the state’s, most formative events of their early history.

Our story begins with James F. Shirley, a Missourian who, at the age of 30, joined a wagon train bound for the Oregon Territory in 1847. Along the Oregon Trail, he met and married 17-year-old Luvina Mark. They arrived in Oregon City on October 12, 1847, and soon set their sights on a 596.62-acre donation land claim just south of what would become Mark Prairie, today the home of the still-standing historic Mark Prairie Schoolhouse.

A chilling piece of history that would follow both the Mark and Shirley families — as well as Philander and Anna

Lee, whose donation land claim would later be platted as downtown Canby, and others who traveled the Oregon Trail that year — was that their paths crossed with Marcus and Narcissa Whitman, and their doomed ministry to the American Indians of the Cayuse tribe at Waiilatpu, near modern-day Walla Walla.

In November 1847, mere weeks after the Marks, Lees and Shirleys had wound their way through the Blue Mountains in northeastern Oregon, Marcus and Narcissa Whitman and 11 others were killed by the Cayuse in an infamous episode that history would remember as the Whitman Massacre, the Walla Walla Massacre, and the Tragedy at Waiilatpu.

The Cayuse accused Marcus Whitman, a physician, of poisoning some 200 members of their tribe, when in actuality they were probably suffering from measles the doctor had been unable to treat. The incident led directly to the founding of the Oregon Territory in 1848 and the outbreak of the Cayuse War, which would last until 1855.

In 1856, William Keil, founder of the communal religious society in Bethel, Missouri, purchased land and a functioning mill south of Oregon City, renaming it Aurora Colony Mills after his daughter, Aurora. Ten years later, Keil purchased land from James and Luvina Shirley for $3,000, which he began sectioning off in parcels for colony members who did

Mark Prairie Schoolhouse

not want to reside in Aurora and be a part of communal living.

Rudolph Wolfer, his wife Catherine Vogt Wolfer, and their nine children were among the members of the original Bethel Colony who traveled to Oregon in the second wagon train in 1863 to join the Aurora Colony. Keil sent the Wolfers and several other families out to settle the large tract in the Needy area that the colony had purchased from James Shirley.

Due to the large size of the Wolfer clan — which would continue to grow in the years to come — the area would soon come to be known as “Wolfer’s Prairie.” The Wolfers primarily farmed hops and grain in those years, and records show they were always willing to help neighboring farmers with their threshing and in the Zimmerman tannery, which later burned down likely around 1910.

Wolfer Prairie was a region densely grown over with timber, which the family harvested to build their homes. Before the railroad, lumber was expensive in the open prairie, but when the trains started, Cole’s sawmill was built in Aurora. James Shirley was a skilled carpenter and helped build the original log school at Needy.

One of the most prevalent timbers found on the farm was white oak, a naturally rot-resistant and strong species of

lumber, which made it a good choice for outdoor use. White oak has traditionally been used to make railroad ties, fence posts, ships, and whiskey barrels. The last of these trees were most likely harvested on the back portion of the 130-acre property in the 1950s.

Wolfer family lore holds numerous stories of interactions with American Indians, most likely from the Molalla tribe, who would travel on horseback across Bear Creek and across the area farms trading beads, wild game, and animal skins for chickens, potatoes and other vegetables, and fruit. There was an abundance of fruit trees on the farm, including plum, cherry, apple and pear.

Rudolph Wolfer, great-greatgrandfather of Judith (Wolfer) Aus of Canby, quit-claimed his 130 acres to his son, Benjamin J. Wolfer, on October 24, 1888, for the sum of $2,800. Benjamin carried on farming operations, adding fruit trees along with horses and cattle. Benjamin J. Wolfer died on June 14, 1926, from injuries sustained after falling out of a cherry tree, and left the property to his only child, Benjamin “Benny” Rudolph.

Benny Wolfer worked the fields by hand with his workhorses and plows. Soil aeration was usually done using massive spiked rollers pulled by oxen or horses that could weigh more than 1,100 lbs. When he bought his first tractor in 1954, he found old habits die hard. His son, Leonard, who was working in the adjacent berry field, would later recall

that he heard his father shouting, “Whoa, whoa!” along with numerous expletives. Needless to say, the tractor did not respond to Benny’s verbal commands — and plowed straight through the fence anyway.

Benjamin J. and Benny Wolfer were also well-known for raising champion fighting game fowl, strikingly colorful and notably aggressive birds who would occasionally chase the grandchildren if they happened to escape their cages next to the old farmhouse. While illegal in Oregon, the Wolfers found a market for good fighting gamecocks in southeast Asia.

Today, part of the Wolfer Prairie property on Zimmerman Road serves as one of the main research and testing sites for Pure Seed, a global leader in grass seed research, production, marketing, and services based in Canby.

A 15-acre portion was deeded to Benny’s son, Leonard G. Wolfer, and his wife Hazel Swartout Wolfer, on January 9, 1945, for $10. The property had a sheep shed at the front of the property, which Leonard converted into a two-story house with wood floors and no insulation. He established a berry farm with six varieties of berries that was later converted to Christmas trees.

When Leonard George Wolfer passed away on January 22, 2004, his death ended a deep heritage on the same soil — 140 years of Rudolph Wolfer’s ancestors residing on and working the rich soil of Wolfer Prairie.

Leonard George Wolfer

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.

Save time

The Local Legend Blake Sakamoto

By Dennis McNabb, Contributing Writer

The coolest man with the coolest hair to ever rock the keys from the Pacific Northwest!

Mr. Congeniality himself, Blake Sakamoto of Dan Reed Network (DRN) fame, is one of the most affable guys you could ever meet. Warm, friendly, and incredibly down to earth, he is a human being first—a genuine family man—and an amazingly talented, world-renowned musician second. Born and raised here in Oregon, he is a local boy who made it big, who played on the world’s stage, and who continues to rock venues across the region with his own band to this day!

Ironically, Blake wanted to play guitar!

When he was 7 or 8 years old, his parents insisted that he learn to play the piano–that’s what all of the parents were doing at the time.

But young Blake envisioned himself slinging the six-stringed ax and playing the music he heard on the radio! It wasn’t until years later that he learned to appreciate the kind of versatility and unique expression the keyboard offered. And of course, it was his virtuosity and mastery of the instrument, not to mention his great personality, which brought him fame.

He honed his chops playing in a variety of bands throughout high school, but they weren’t your typical “high school bands.” They were good! There were some extraordinarily talented players around Portland during that time–many who went on to make it big–and Blake was a peer. When one of them asked Blake to move to L.A. to join his band, he took the plunge!

Over time the band put some things together and were on the verge of getting signed, when Dan Reed called. Dan already had a record deal and was based out of Portland, Blake’s hometown. The opportunity was too good to pass up, and the rest, as they say, is history.

Blake played with the DRN from 1987 through 1993–their most prolific and successful period–at which point the band went on hiatus. Following that, he played intermittently with other bands–even forming a band called Slow Rush with DRN drummer Dan Pred for a few years–until the DRN reformed in 2012. They played together for another 3 years until Blake retired from the band in 2015 to spend more time with his family.

These days, Blake can be seen on stage with his current band, The Nu Wavers. The “sexiest of all cover bands” (Blake says with a nod and a wink!), they play creativelycrafted medleys of songs from the ’70s onward; all the best parts of all the best songs, and they are fantastic! Blake is also a fullylicensed insurance agent–recruited by Country Financial during the pandemic–and spends his free time being a “foodie,” traveling, and attending the theater with his girlfriend Bronwyn—when she’s not performing as a guest vocalist for The Nu Wavers. Follow the band on Facebook to learn of upcoming shows!

Press photo from Blake’s early stint with Dan Reed Network

Blake with his band The Nu Wavers

The most important goal when it comes to fire safety is to escape. Fire extinguishers are a vital piece of equipment to ensure you can stop or evade a fire. Use this guide to make sure you have the right types of fire extinguishers available in your home to fight different types of fire. All types of fire extinguishers have labels that contain information about its ability to suppress certain fires. There are three general classes of residential fire extinguishers.

CLASSES OF FIRE EXTINGUISHERS

 Class A extinguishers are rated for fires that involve ordinary household items such as wood, cloth, paper, rubber and plastics. The numerical rating on Class A extinguishers represents the capacity in terms of an equivalent volume of water. Class 1-A extinguishers have the equivalent of 1.25 gallons of water and a 4-A has the equivalent of 5 gallons.

 Class B extinguishers are rated for fires involving flammable liquids such as kitchen grease, gasoline, oil, solvents and oil-based paint. Class B extinguishers are numerically rated on the number of square feet of fire they can put out. A 10-B extinguisher covers 10 square feet of fire.

 Class C extinguishers are rated for fires involving energized electrical equipment, such as wiring, circuit breakers, machinery, electronics and appliances. This class doesn’t have a numerical rating.

 A-B-C fire extinguishers can be used for those three types of fires. Other multipurpose fire extinguishers may carry a combination of these classes.

 Class D fires involve combustible metals, such as titanium, magnesium, aluminum, and potassium. Extinguishers for this type of fire are usually found in industrial or laboratory settings.

Fire Extinguishers 101

STORING YOUR FIRE EXTINGUISHERS

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommends a fire extinguisher on every level of your home as well as in garages, kitchens, basements and near exits to create an exit pathway. Here several tips to keep in mind when using a fire extinguisher.

 Supply one fire extinguisher for each level of your home, spaced no farther than 40-feet apart. The recommended classes and ratings are 2-A, 10-B and C.

 For kitchens and cars, the recommended classes and rating are 10-B and C.

 For garages, workshops, home theaters and offices, the recommended classes and ratings are 3-A, 40-B and C.

HOW TO SAFELY USE A FIRE EXTINGUISHER

When using all types of fire extinguishers, keep PASS in mind.

P: Pull pin.

A: Aim nozzle toward base of fire.

S: Squeeze lever slowly.

S: Sweep nozzle from side to side, while moving toward fire.

The NFPA encourages portable multipurpose fire extinguisher use when:

 The fire is confined to a small area, such as a wastebasket, and is not growing.

 All have exited and the fire department has been called or is being called.

 The room is not filled with smoke.

TIP: Keep your back to a clear exit when you use the device so you can make an easy escape if the fire can’t be controlled.

FIRE EXTINGUISHER SAFETY TIPS

 Check with local fire departments to find hands-on fire extinguisher training.

 Choose an extinguisher with an easy-to-read pressure gauge and clear instructions.

 Bigger is better when choosing an extinguisher but be sure to choose the right class for the type of fire you may encounter.

Maintain your extinguisher by checking the gauge monthly to ensure it is pressurized. Replace it if the gauge reads empty, or if it is older than 12 years.

Check your smoke detectors, carbon monoxide (CO) alarms and fire extinguishers at least once a year to ensure they are up to date.

KITCHEN FIRE EXTINGUISHERS

Most home fires start in the kitchen. Understanding fire extinguisher classes comes in handy when preparing for kitchen fires. Kitchen fires have their own classification, Class K, which is technically a subclass of Class B. Fire extinguishers are marketed for use on residential kitchen fires and carry a Class B rating. These types of fire extinguishers generally use high-volume, low-velocity delivery of the extinguishing agent to prevent splattering and spreading of the burning liquid grease.

Knowing the different fire extinguisher uses are an important part of an overall fire response plan. In addition, make sure you household has working smoke alarms and the practice a fire escape plan.

Growing to Serve

The Canby Center launches 90-day campaign to raise $800,000 for expansion

To date, The Canby Center has raised more than $7 million for the project — nearly 90% of its total campaign goal of $8 million. Steve says the Center receives generous support from a diverse network of churches, businesses, organizations, and individual donors.

By Tyler Francke, Contributing Writer

The Canby Center, a faith-based, service-oriented nonprofit serving local youth and families, has launched a 90-day, $800,000 fundraising campaign that will allow the organization to complete the most significant expansion in its history and enable them to serve the growing needs in Canby — now and for decades to come.

This campaign will make it possible to renovate and more than triple the Center’s existing space on southwest Second Avenue, adding 11,000 square feet for food distribution, classrooms, a job center, offices, and more. It will also open the door to expanding its highly successful Thriving Together program, launching a new youth-mentoring program and deepening partnerships with other organizations that are also serving the Canby community.

“This campaign really is about so much more than raising a building,” Steve Nelson, Development Director for The Canby Center, explains. “The long-term impact that we are expecting to make has to do with alleviating poverty in Canby, and this new facility is going to allow us to do a much bigger and better job of that in our community.”

Significant grant support, including a $600,000 award from the M.J. Murdock Charitable trust and a $1.125M grant from the State of Oregon, has created major momentum towards seeing the campaign goal met. However, the majority of contributors to The Canby Center’s campaign — more than 60% — has come from individual donors.

Still, the majority of contributions to The Canby Center’s capital campaign — more than 60% — has come from individual donors.

“These are folks who have compassion for our community, they love what we are doing, and they want to support it,” Steve says. “I think it shows that we are making a difference here, and those who see that want to help. And they know that their dollars are well-stewarded here. We make the most of the gifts that are given, and they have an immediate impact in our community.”

This final, public phase of the campaign will involve broadly sharing the Center’s vision for the building expansion and the positive impact it will make on the community in the coming decades, Steve says. They also hope to use the campaign as a springboard to bring their model of empowering, dignityrestoring poverty alleviation to other communities.

“We’re so excited to be on the home stretch of fundraising for this new building that’s going to expand our reach in the community,” Steve says. “In order to do that and do it well, we know that we need all of our community to be involved and participating in any way they can, [such as] donating, volunteering or connecting with The Canby Center in other ways.”

To learn more about The Canby Center’s planned expansion and capital campaign, visit thecanbycenter.org/building.

TOP: A rendering shows the north side of the proposed building for The Canby Center. ABOVE: The employment center. TOP RIGHT: A classroom. BOTTOM RIGHT: A perspective of view of the building.

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ON THE FENCE

Long Bros. can help you build a farm-tough fence

Fences serve several purposes, including protecting and dividing land, improving a property’s curb appeal, and confining animals, or excluding them. Whatever the use, quality is important, and planning essential.

First, you’ll need a sketch of the area to be fenced and measurements, which can be taken using Google Maps’ distance tool. Bring all this information with you when buying fencing supplies. Long Bros. can help you determine the material you’ll need.

When developing your fence plan, experts say to consider the following: (1) If possible, locate fences in terraced fields at the terrace’s crest and other natural water divides. (2) Avoid placing fences down-slope across terraces.

(3) If your field needs to be crossfenced, plan for a contour fence parallel to a terraced ridge. (4) If a fence must be located at the outlet end of a terrace, allow for fencing that will not block outlet water movement from channels. (5) Wherever possible, plan for straight fences; they are less expensive and easier to build. (6) You’ll also need to consider locating gates and lanes for livestock and equipment.

Once the planning is complete, you’ll need to select the type of either permanent or moveable fence. Common types include board, barbed wire, woven wire,

cable, mesh, high-tensile, electric or a combination of any of these.

If you’re fencing livestock, your animals’ natural behaviors will inform your selection. For example, it can be extremely difficult to contain sheep, goats, pigs, horses and poultry. Woven wire is the perfect fencing choice for these animals because it prevents them from climbing, digging or flying through the fence.

Essentially, there is the perfect fence for every animal. And Long Bros. can help you get started.

At Long Bros., you’ll find fencing supplies, such as pressure-treated posts, stable mesh, field fencing, barbed wire, T-posts and more. Ask staff members about these products, and they’ll be happy to answer your questions and help you achieve the perfect fence for your farm or property.