Willamette Living December/January 2020

Willamette

LIVING December / January 2020

The lifestyle magazine for Oregon’s Willamette Valley

Portland Set Sail For Holiday Fun

+Apples

Art Cookies!

What can nature do for you?

TillamookCoast.com

#mynature

MEMBER OWNED

Federally insured by NCUA

centralwcu.org | 541.928.4536

Mercedes Benz of Salem Presents The Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class

The GLC 300 4-Matic New front and rear bumpers and a new

steering wheel and new colors and trim.

In the interior, a high quality of finish and

radiator grille reinforce the SUV-look. LED

The GLC and GLC Coupe can drive in semi-

high-grade

High

automated

situations.

Grain wood are combined with user-friendly

standard equipment, and flatter than before,

Functions familiar from the S-Class are

controls. Its strengths include intuitive control

while redesigned all-LED rear lights are also

available in the Driver Assistance package.

using a variety of inputs such as touch control

standard.

include

As standard, the GLC and GLC Coupe are

and the optimized voice control system

high-quality displays in the MBUX style,

equipped with MBUX - Mercedes-Benz User

(“Hey Mercedes”) as standard. The MBUX

among them a 12.3” fully digital instrument

Experience including the voice activation

augmented reality function for navigation

cluster (optional) or the new standard 10.25”

keyword “Hey Mercedes”.

adds useful navigation information to a video

Performance

New

headlamps

interior

are

features

now

touchscreen display, a new multifunction

mode

in

certain

materials

such

as Natural

image of the surroundings.

Mercedes Benz of Salem 2405 Commercial St. SE Salem | Sales: 800.336.4148

www.valleymb.com

Your Downtown Holiday Headquarters!

Something for Everyone on Your List! ~Free Gift Wrapping~

In This Issue...

December/January 2020

26

Getaway Portland

Regulars 14 Art in the Valley 20 The Bookshelf 38 Real Estate Update 39 Sten: On the Money 40 Style 41 Gardening With Brenda 42 Kris on Health 44 The Hot Ticket

11

Nancy Wyse

17

Brittney West

coming in the Feb/Mar 2020 Issue

22

Health & Wellness

Winter's Eve

On the Cover:

Christmas Ships, Portland. www.christmasships.org Photo: Travel Portland facebook.com/willametteliving

6

pinterest.com/willamettelivin

Willamette Living Magazine December / January 2020

@WillametteLiving

advertising information www.willametteliving.com ads@willametteliving.com 541-740-9776

issuu.com/willametteliving

Start the Decade Right Showcase your business in Willamette Living Magazine Willamette

June / July 2019

LIVING

The lifestyle magazine for Oregon’s Willamette Valley

X

Willamette

Willamette

December / Januaî ¸y 2019

LIVING LIVING October / November 2019

The lifestyle magazine for Oregon’s Willamette Valley

The lifestyle magazine for Oregon’s Willamette Valley

Anniversary Issue!

Celebrating

Ten Years of Willamette Living! azine • Winn ag

! Be

st of the

V 2019 • W ill ley

The Tillamook Coast

Also

Comfort Food Art Focus: Lee Kitzman Oregon History

ette Living M am

Our Annual Best of the Valley Winners!

Fifty Miles of Art in the Valley Fun & Fireworks on the Tillamook Coast

er

al

In This Issue

Wellness Retreat

Tî ¸aditions old & New • Philomath • Cî ¸anberries!

SWAP PAGE

Targeted Advertising In a Beautiful Format That Readers Enjoy • Hundreds of distribution spots • Digital version emails to thousands • “eBlastsâ€? to supercharge your mailings • Magazine advertising sticks around • The most trusted advertising medium

• An engaged readership • Special sections, and themes • The valley’s favorite color glossy • Ten years of successful growth • Scores of happy advertisers!

WWW.WILLAMETTELIVING.COM/ADVERTISE

From the Home Office in Corvallis...

Publisher's Update 2019, done! Here's to a great 2020.

I'd like to take a moment to congratulate our very first advertiser a happy anniversary. Second Glance, the upscale resale store and retail pioneer in Corvallis, is celebrating their 35th year in business! We thought our 10 year milestone this July was a big deal, but 35 years... that's something to be impressed about.

As we wrap up this issue, our last for 2019, we're looking forward to the holidays and time with family. Time to relax, reboot, and plan the charge into 2020. We've got a lot on the schedule. Like "Health & Wellness," "Veggie Nation," "Hit the Road," "The Grandma Guide," and of course the everpopular "Best of the Valley." It's going to be a fun year.

Scott Alexander, Publisher

As they say "last but not least"--that certainly applies to this issue. We've profiled a few of our neighbors doing what they love, like City Councilor and fondant icing master Nancy Wyse of Corvallis, and local artist Brittney West. Two young ladies running fun business' using the power of their creativity.

We have a "double batch" of recipes in this issue featuring the nations second favorite fruit, and possibly the Northwest's first, Apples.

One of the favorite valley traditions is "Winter's Eve Corvallis" a fund raiser for the Corvallis Assistance League. Check out our article about it's past, and present.

Check out our final installement of "Dying Young, At a Very Old Age" from local Doc Frank Sievert. Good tips from a physician who really cares about what he does.

We called upon the expertise of the organization tasked with knowing the finer points of travel to Portland, Travel Portland for some great suggestions. If you're headed to the city this season, be sure to check out the sidebar of holiday fun -- the Grotto is a must-see.

As usual, there's also the abundance of local art, events, and entertainment to keep you busy through the winter months, the great thing about art galleries? They're indoors, and heated!

We're proud of our 10th anniversary this year, and we're looking forward to another 10 years of bringing you the best of the valley. Please know that we always keep in mind that we could not do what we love to do without you, our readers.

Thank you for reading Willamette Living, and we wish you and yours a very merry holiday season, and a happy new year!

Scott The ever-stylish Nancy (right) and daughter Jessica in front of Second Glance in Corvallis. Our hats are off to you ladies!

Photo: Nataya Kelly

We've made a change on the website!

For a long time now, we've had a stream of our Instagram posts, but now you can share your favorite Willamette Valley Pics too!

Just add the hashtag: #WillametteLiving to your description, and your photos will show up on our web site. Got new products? Having a special event? Trips to your favorite outdoor spots? A particularly cute dog? Winery fun? Get 'em on there!

8

Willamette Living Magazine December / January 2020

Willamette

LIVING

T H E L I F E S T Y L E M AG A Z I N E F O R W E S T E R N O R E G O N

Publishers

Scott & Gayanne Alexander

Willamette Living is published every two months by Willamette Life Media LLC

inquiries / suggestions

feedback@WillametteLiving.com

Contributing Photographer Trevor Witt Trevor@willametteliving.com

FAMILY MOVIE SWIM

Dec. 20 & Jan. 17, 7-9 p.m.

Please Call for Prices

PARENTS’ NIGHT OUT

Dec. 13 & Jan. 10, 6–10 p.m.

Please Call for Prices / Theme

POLAR BEAR SWIM Jan. 1, 1–4 p.m.

Regular Admission Fee

Find Us

In print at hundreds of locations in the Willamette Valley.

The digital edition is free online at www.willametteliving.com

Subscriptions

Subscribe online at willametteliving.com, or send a check to our mailing address below. Check current subscription rates on our website.

Event Calendar

Submit your events at: willametteliving.com. Please submit as far ahead as possible. Please check your submission for accuracy. Please allow time for approval. Select events may also appear in the print magazine.

1940 NW Highland Drive . 541-766-SWIM www.corvallisoregon.gov/pool

YACHATS

Mailing Address

Willamette Living 922 NW Circle Blvd Suite 160 - 179 Corvallis, OR 97330

All editorial material, including comments, opinion and statements of fact appearing in this publication, represents the views of the respective authors and does not necessarily carry the endorsement of Willamette Living or its officers.

Information in Willamette Living is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

The publication of any advertisements is not to be construed as an endorsement of products or services offered unless it is specifically stated in the ad that there is such approval or endorsement.

PHOTOS: GIRL IN WATER PHOTOGRAPHY

*Products/books/samples for review to same address please.

yachats.org | hikebikepaddle.org | 800.929.0477 www.willametteliving.com

9

Just a block from Lexington Park this beautiful home is a true find and lives so much bigger than its square footage. The gleaming kitchen was

recently remodeled with white cabinets, farmhouse sink, quartz counter tops and stainless steel, high end appliances. The home features hard wood floors w/ inlays, gas fireplace in master suite, updated bathrooms and fully fenced yard. Smart home features include a Nest Thermostat and corresponding smoke and CO detectors.

An outstanding property in a great location. | 2198 Boston St SE, Albany, 3/2.5, 1226 sqft, 0.11 ac

Anne�e Sievert

Number one Coldwell Banker agent in Oregon!

541-207-5551 | asievert@valleybrokers.com

www.valleybrokers.com/asievert

If your property is listed with a real estate broker, please disregard. It is not our intention to solicit offerings of other real estate brokers. We are happy to work with them and cooperate fully. ©2018 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker® is a registered trademark to Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. An Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity. Each office is independently owned and operated. ©2018 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker® is a registered trademark to Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. An Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity . Each office is independently owned and operated. Information deemed reliable, but not guaranteed.

Witt Consulting

Individual Tax Help Business Tax Help

Providing

Business Accounting

Clarity

Legal Support

in a

Complex

Empowering you to make informed decisions

World

541-758-7100

582 NW Van Buren Ave Corvallis, OR 97330

Bill & Leslie Witt

wittconsulting.com Ta x • L e g a l • A cco u n t i n g • Co n s u l t i n g 10

Are you looking for help with your personal or business Finances?

Then look no further than Witt Consulting.

Willamette Living Magazine December / January 2020

“Bill, Leslie, and Co. are an indispensable part of our dayto-day business. They’ve also become good friends over the years. If you need clarification, Witt Consulting should be your first choice. With vast knowledge of tax law, creativity, and an always positive outlook, they’re not your average accounting firm.”

Scott Alexander, Publisher Willamtte Life Media

Sweet Success WE WERE ABLE TO SCHEDULE A MEETING WITH A LOCAL POLITICAL FIGURE TO DISCUSS ONE OF THE MOST IMPORTANT ISSUES OF THE SEASON, COOKIES! NANCY WYSE, CITY COUNCIL MEMBER REPRESENTING CORVALLIS’ WARD 6, RUNS AN OUTSIDE OPERATION IN HER “SPARE” TIME – HER FABULOUS CUSTOM COOKIE BUSINESS.

WL: How did your cookie service get started?

NW: I started making cupcakes for my children’s birthday parties and really enjoyed the creative outlet. I was then inspired by my aunt who entered a variety of items (jams, gift baskets, table settings, chickens) into her local county fair. She encouraged me to enter my cupcakes here.

I just missed the Benton County Fair, so I entered the Oregon State Fair. I saw the list of all the decorated confections I could enter--cupcakes, cake pops, petit fours, cookies, sugar work, molded chocolate, etc. I got excited and in addition to the cupcakes I entered cake pops and my very first sugar cookies. My sugar cookies were HORRIBLE. No awards for those! After that experience, I watched lots of YouTube videos and was inspired to continue practicing and trying different methods and techniques. Fast forward three years, and I’ve gotten a lot better. I’ve won numerous ribbons at the Oregon State Fair, including Best of Division last year, and this year, as well as Best of Level this year (Since I’m bragging, my cake pops also won Best of Division, two years ago). This year was my first to enter the Benton County Fair and I won some blue ribbons there too. My Unicorn cookies were awarded blue ribbon (first place) decorated sugar cookies at the professional level at the Benton County Fair this year. I entered the black and white cookies with the multi-colored floral motif in the Oregon State Fair royal icing category this year, and they were awarded a Blue Ribbon, Best of Division, and Best of Level. The dark blue and grey fondant cookies with frames, roses, keys, etc. were also awarded a blue ribbon at the Oregon

State Fair this year. These were some of my favorite cookies I’ve ever designed/made.

WL: Is this a baking project, or an art project?

NW: Both! My cookies need to be both aesthetically pleasing AND tasty, because, who wants to eat a good looking but tasteless cookie? However, the reason I make and decorate cookies is to fulfill an artistic outlet and to create something unique.

WL: Do kids help?

NW: Absolutely! Both of my daughters enter an assortment of decorated confections into the Oregon State Fair in the junior division. And they have both won ribbons! Of course, they both enter cookies, but they’ve also entered cake pops, molded chocolate and cupcakes.

WL: They’re not Just for Christmas, are they?

NW: Oh heck no. I’ve made all kinds of cookies- wedding, baby shower, birthday, holiday & seasonal, real estate themed, sports, retirement, graduation- you name it! I can take any theme and incorporate personal touches- the possibilities are endless!

year. I spent a lot of time comparing color palettes and playing with different shapes-the shapes of the cookies themselves, and all the fondant details--the frames, keys, flowers, and the cameo. My favorite cookie from that set is the cameo cookie.

I suppose you could call it my favorite of favorites. They were awarded a blue ribbon at the Oregon State Fair this year.

WL: Do you draw, or engage in other artistic endeavors?

NW: I’ve never been good at drawing; I even got a D in a graphic design class in college. But I’ve always enjoyed crafting.

I like to think I have an eye for color and composition, regardless of what that college professor thought.

WL: Do you have advice for amateur holiday cookie bakers?

NW: Yes, consistency is key! If your royal icing or glaze is too runny it will run right off the cookie. If it’s too thick it won’t settle into a nice smooth finish. Adjusting your consistency is easy-- more powdered sugar to thicken, more water to thin.

WL: One flavor, or more?

NW: I love experimenting with flavors!

I currently have recipes for vanilla, chocolate, lemonade, orange cranberry, pumpkin spice, red velvet, gingerbread, and apple spice. My favorite by far is orange cranberry, with apple spice coming in second. Spoiler alert - I’m also working on a new flavor: pistachio cardamom. Stay tuned!

WL: Any favorite projects that come to mind?

NW: Honestly, I’m always excited to execute my next big idea and almost every new project is my next favorite. Although, if I had to choose one set of cookies as my favorite, I’d chose the fondant cookies I entered into the Oregon State Fair this

Need Cookies? Contact Nancy!

Email: wysesweetsntreats@gmail.com instagram: @wyse_sweets_n_treats_ facebook: www.facebook.com/wysesweetsntreats

www.willametteliving.com

11

Rachmaninoff Symphony No. 1 Worlds Away Rachmaninoff Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini Yet so close...

with Christopher Yoon, piano

Rest, relax & recharge at a luxuriously well-appointed

Beachfront Rental on the Central Oregon Coast

A recent review:

Hours: Mondays 10am - 5pm Tues - Fri 10am - 7pm Saturdays 10am - 5pm

Stay here if you can!

The pictures can’t even show what a wonderful house this is! Everything you would want is there, and we saw seals and whales right in front of the house!

Tuesday, February 25, 2020 • 7:30 p.m.

HE CORVALLIS-OSU SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA PRESENTS

Albany’s only full-service menswear shop Serving: Albany, Lebanon, Corvallis, Salem & Eugene

Valerie H. - Stayed Sept, 2019

The LaSells Stewart Center, 875 SW 26th St., Corvallis

Five Stars!

Quality Clothing • Hats • Custom Suits • Gifts Custom Shirts • Vintage Shoe Shine Stand • Alterations

For booking information availability and more visit

Complimentary Gift Wrapping

www.vrbo.com/773292

www.TheNattyDresser.com 425 1st Avenue W. Historic Downtown Albany

All students free • Tickets: $25-35

THE CORVALLIS-OSU SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA PRESENTS

at The LaSells Stewart Center 60 minutes before each performance. $3 discount if purchased online at cosusymphony.org You’ve prepared for a rewarding retirement.

We can help you make the most of it.

Call 541-286-5580 at least one week in advance for accommodations with Christopher Yoon, piano relating to a disability. sday, February 25, 2020 • 7:30 p.m.

maninoff Symphony No. 1 maninoff Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini

Tuesday, February 2020 • 7:30 p.m. aSells Stewart Center, 875 SW 26th St.,25, Corvallis The LaSells Stewart Center, Corvallis dents free • Tickets: $25-35

Your vision of retirement is unique, and your financial plan should be too. As an Ameriprise private wealth advisory practice, we have the qualifications and knowledge to help you grow and preserve your wealth. Whether it’s investment management, tax strategies or legacy planning, we’ll work with you to find the right financial solutions for your individual needs. And we’re backed by the strength and stability of one of America’s leading retirement planning companies.

Call us today and discover the personal service you deserve.

PacWest Wealth Partners A private wealth advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial services, Inc. Albany - 541.926.4116 Bend - 541.382.2354 Corvallis - 541.757.3000 Salem - 503.399.9498 www.PacWestWealthPartners.com

Visit cosusymphony.org for details

Sells Stewart Center 60 minutes before eachSymphony performance. No. 1 Rachmaninoff

nt if purchased online at cosusymphony.org Rachmaninoff Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini

with Christopher Yoon, piano

86-5580 at least one week e for accommodations a disability.

Tuesday, February 25, 2020 • 7:30 p.m.

The LaSells Stewart Center, 875 SW 26th St., Corvallis

12

All students free • Tickets: $25-35

at The LaSells Stewart Center 60 minutes before each performance.

Willamette Living Magazine December / January 202010/17/19 $3 discount if purchased online at cosusymphony.org

12:11 AM

The compass is a trademark of Ameriprise Financial, Inc. Investment advisory products and services are made available through Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc., a registered investment adviser.

Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. Member FINRA and SIPC. © 2019 Ameriprise Financial, Inc. All rights reserved. (03/19)

Photography - In Focus

Where's Mom? How Not To Be Missing From Photos

Holly Peterson Research shows that Mom takes twice as many photos than Dad does and as a result she can be missing from family photo collections.

Hiring a professional portrait photographer to document the entire family can help. A professional family portrait taken every 3--5 years or whenever a family milestone is reached will help preserve family memories and create a lasting legacy.

Cara Babcock, is a talented creative in her industry, 3D apparel design, and an accomplished photographer too.

So when baby Walt was born she and husband Sean, an RN at Salem Hospital, took lots of photos.

Grandparents Emily and Paul Miller gave them a gift of a family portrait sitting that they won at the Winter's Eve Corvallis Assistance League auction. I was

delighted to have an opportunity to portray Cara and Sean with their son.

We also included their amazing dog Porter too. I had made senior and family portraits for both families over the years and watched this adorable couple grow up.

I was especially happy to have Cara be front and center in the portraits and not missing.

Holly Peterson, AFP, award-winning portrait photographer Is the 4th generation studio owner of Ball Studio Photography, Corvallis564 SW Adams Ave 541-753-5721 wwwtheballstudio.com

Downtown Corvallis 541-753-5721

www.theballstudio.com

www.willametteliving.com

13

Art

Art in the Mid-Valley Holiday Spirit of Art and Community

By Brian Egan The year is coming to an end and I would like to take the opportunity to celebrate the creative spirit here in the Mid-Valley.

My association with The Arts Center has brought me into contact with some of the most creative minds in the area. Through their mediums of paint, glass, wood, stone, etc., each artist tells a story of how their work is born, nurtured and sent out into the world. Thanks to each of you for baring your hearts and souls, bringing joy and wonder to our lives. We are a better community as a result.

You can thank local artists by shopping locally for holiday gifts. Two great places to purchase artistic presents are The ArtShop at The Arts Center and at the Teal Cooperative Gallery. At The ArtShop you will find unique gifts and colorful displays in many media including ceramics, prints, paintings, glass, wood, screenprints, and letterpress cards. Over 50 local and regional artists are showcased so you are sure to find unique gift ideas.

Each November, the Teal Cooperative Gallery team of dedicated Oregon artists transform an otherwise vacant and lifeless store front into a world of color, light and beauty, open for business during the months of November and December. On display are some of the finest works in fiber, leather, pottery, jewelry, glass, metal, wood work, mixed media, paper, and soap that the central Willamette Valley has to offer. This year the gallery is located at 334 SW 2nd St in Corvallis and will be open until December 28th.

The Arts Center is celebrating the Solstice season with an exhibit called “About Light” featuring the many interpretations of light, both metaphorically and literally.

This is a community-based show featuring the work of many local artists. The exhibit runs from now until December 28th. The Corrine Woodman Gallery at The Arts Center will show the work of local artist Deb Curtis from now until January 25th.

Deb’s work relies on sustainably gathered natural materials. She uses local materials that are hand gathered using traditional harvesting methods of the region. As she works with the materials for a piece, she visualizes the environment of their

14

from January 2nd until February 8th with a reception on the evening of January 16th.

Salzman, Sextant.

The Corvallis Art Walk takes place December 19th and January 16th from 4pm to 8pm each night. Galleries, studios, arts/ crafts stores and the occasional pop-up keep their doors open late to host an art related event or demonstration.

Curtis, Layers.

The Giustina Gallery at OSU’s LaSells Stewart Center will host the Willamette Valley PhotoArts Guild for a themed show called “The Road Less Travelled” from now until January 24th with a reception on December 12th. The Willamette Valley PhotoArts Guild is based in Corvallis with a membership of 50 photographers from around the mid-valley. Formed in 1985, The Guild’s purpose is to foster the artistic growth of its members and to promote the appreciation of the art of photography through community exhibits. For this year’s theme, members were asked to interpret the closing lines of Robert Frost’s most famous poem in light of their own personal artistic journey: "Two roads diverged in a wood, and I— I took the one less traveled by, And that has made all the difference."

origin. Her vision of these environments has changed as our world has experienced development, warming temperatures and changing weather patterns.

January brings the work of artist Andy Salzman to the main gallery of The Arts Center. The show is titled “Narrative” -- here is a description in the artists own words: “In the sculpture I create, I use construction methods commonly found in furniture and shipbuilding along with ceramic and cast metal components. These objects I make are conceptional, and sometimes literal references to vessel as human figure.

Many of the structural details represent the relationships in my life. I want to build precious cargo aboard a precarious journey.” I hope that Andy’s description has piqued your interest. Having seen some of his earlier work I can guarantee you have seen nothing like it before. The show runs

Willamette Living Magazine December / January 2020

Now is the time to start thinking about the 2020 Howland Community Open show that starts on February 18th at The Arts Center. This show is open to artists of all ages and artistic abilities and these winter days are a great time to create your entry.

Drop off dates are February 11-15 for Arts Center members and February 15th for non-members.

CORVALLIS ARTS CENTER HOURS Noon to 5:30 pm Tuesday through Saturday Evenings for special events Phone 541-754-1551 www.theartscenter.net

Tuesday - Saturday 11 to 5

ts GifG

GALLERY

ifts

s!

209 SW 2nd St. | Tue - Sat 10-5:30 | In Corvallis (541) 752-0811

Gift

Join us in January for our group show “Ar�s�c Medley.”

A group show of members including several new members.

Chris Hannegan, oil, Towhee in her Rosebush Nest

‘tis the

Season of many

Holidays We have Unique Gifts Large and

Small

Closed January 13 to 19

Featured Ar�st For December: Mike Bergen Affordable local art for every taste and budget.

Come into the gallery and have a look around, you’ll like what you see. / Art-In-The-Valley-Gallery

ar�nthevalley.net

The Wild Women will be here January 21!

184 S. Main St., Independence, OR

503 838 6171

www.rivergalleryart.com

Art by Appointment & Fridays 11-2pm 230 NW 6th Street Corvallis, OR

Mid-Willamette Valley

ART Trail Member

541-456-4971 beatrice.artwork@gmail.com

www.willametteliving.com

15

BARKER UERLINGS I N S U R A N C E

BUSINESS AUTO •• LIFE LIFE •• LONG-TERM LONG-TERM CARE CARE BUSINESS •• HEALTH HEALTH •• HOME HOME •• AUTO

Poinsettias

Houseplants

Specialty Food Items

Unique Conifers

Treats

Holiday Gifts

Decor Wine

Gift Making Classes!

KEEPING PROMISES SINCE 1911

3 4 0 N W 5 T H S T. CO RVA L L I S 541-757-1321 W W W. B A R K E R U E R L I N G S .CO M

Wreaths Swags

Christmas Trees

Make your own decor classes!

And so much more!

Your one stop holiday wonderland!

5470 NE Hwy 20 • Corvallis, OR 97330 • 541-753-6601

Now Open in Corvallis

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! from all of us at:

425 1st Avenue W. Historic Downtown Albany 16

Willamette Living Magazine December / January 2020

FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE Frank Sievert MD

Dr. Frank Sievert MD 541-207-1670

www.thethriveclinic.com

Your neighbors in business: Plant Posse Brittney West owns and operates a unique business in Corvallis, Plant Posse. Brittney’s business offers art objects, and jewelry focused entirely on plants. Her cute, Avocado earrings caught our eye at a local boutique last year, and we finally tracked her down for a chat.

WL: How long have you been vegan?

BW: I have been strictly vegan for 8 years and dabbled for 2 years prior.

WL: When you were a kid, what did you eat at home?

BW: In high school, I recall sitting at the dinner table eating a steak one night when it finally clicked. I turned to my parents and said, “Oh my God--there’s a cow rolling around in my mouth!” I said I wanted to stop eating animals, but was met with resistance, and I couldn’t fully become vegetarian until I moved out of my home and I could cook for myself.

WL: Do you have any “go-to” meals you prepare?

BW: I’m one of those avocado toast every morning and for every snack kind of gals, only I like adding Miyoko’s smoked mozzarella cheese, fresh dill and Umami powder. I could eat this every meal. Aside from that, I eat a well-balanced meal with lots of greens, rice & bean bowls and veggie stir fries.

WL: What sparked the idea to create your vejewelry, if I may coin a word?

BW: I love that you called it “vejewelry!” I received my Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Oregon with a focus in fine arts--namely painting and drawing. I spent many years working in the produce department at a local food coop as well as the Farmer’s Market for a local farm. I became enthralled with the unique beauty, healing power and diversity of the plant and fungi kingdoms. This work experience,

the art background and my growing love for all things plant-based became the catalyst for starting my own business. All our work is inspired by plants, produce & fungi. Our jewelry is each uniquely handsculpted and hand-painted and our stickers and Eco-prints are derived from my original paintings.

WL: What’s your best seller?

BW: Our best seller is hands down the avocado earrings, which happen to be the first product we made. In fact, we started selling at First Alternative Co-op with nothing but avocado earrings and were tickled by how happy people were about avocado earrings. From there, we tried to introduce new items seasonally, as their plant and fungi counterparts were ready to harvest.

WL: You also paint too right? Any other artistic endeavors?

BW: I am also a painter. Most of my artistic

endeavors are through my business now, creating original paintings through our CSA program. A Plant Posse CSA stands for Community Supported Art and is a spin on farm CSA’s (Community Supported Agriculture). Farm CSA’s provide customers with surprise subscription boxes of local, seasonal produce, whereas our art boxes provide people with fresh art featuring seasonal (and mostly local) plants, produce and fungi. It’s a quarterly subscription where you can choose from 5 different boxes at varying price points ranging from $15 to $100. It includes anything from eco-prints, to stickers, handmade jewelry, original paintings, needlepoint, sculpture, ceramics and more. These CSA boxes are a great way to collect original art for yourself or to give as gifts.

Brittney West, Plant Posse Browse and purchase Plant Posse art & jewelry at www.plantposseart.com.

www.willametteliving.com

17

Pump or Water Issues?

Relax... Midway

is your local go-to, family owned, full service plumbing resource. Whether you’re a contractor in search of a sub-contractor, a home owner looking for upgrades or repairs, or a farmer who needs to make it rain, Midway is always your logical answer. In business in Albany since 1964!

“Professional, competitive, respectful, flexible.� “Polite, and nice to my dog!� “...would recommend them in a minute.�

e azin • Winn ag

est of the V

Li ette ving M am

Google Reviews, 5 Stars!

!B

2019 • W ill ley

NW Sycamore Ave. Corvallis, Oregon -valleytileinc.com 541.745.5305 mvtcorvallis@gmail.com

er

al

d-Valley Tile & Design, Inc.

Yes! We can solve your well pump and water treatment challenges!

homeowner, contractor, designer friendly!

Mid-Valley Tile & Design, Inc. 907 NW Sycamore Ave. Corvallis, Oregon

2428 Three Lakes Rd. Albany, OR 97322 Residential • Commercial

mid-valleytileinc.com 541.745.5305

541-928-7927

CCB: 180409

Every Year, Birds of a Feather...

Flock to J&J for Great Holiday Decor

est of the V

2019 • W ill ley

e azin • Winn ag

!B

al

er

It Begins With the Perfect Floor

Li ette ving M am

est of the V

2019 • W ill ley

e azin • Winn ag

!B

al

er

Li ette ving M am

CCB# 193250 Carpet • Hardwood • Countertops • Vinyl • Tile & Stone • Area Rugs Window Treatments • Cabinet Hardware • Decorative Sinks

Local & Family Owned

Celebrating over 50 years of business in Albany!

www.J-Jelectric.com 885 22nd Ave. SW in Albany  541-928-8488 18

Willamette Living Magazine December / January 2020

(541) 757-8553 • BensonsInteriors.com 415 NE Circle Blvd. • Corvallis

Home Improvement

4 Must Knows Before Buying Window Treatments Article courtesy of Richard McCann One of the most often overlooked features in a room that can have a dramatic impact on a space are window treatments. Usually, you want your window treatments to satisfy a very specific set of needs. Which is of the things that you should know before you decide to purchase window coverings. If you don’t put much thought into what it is that you want them to do, the chances of you not being very happy with your selections are much greater.

Do know what your options are? What types are available? Most people take for granted the number of options that exist in the world of window treatments. There are blinds, shades, shutters, and drapery.

These are just the very broad categories, which all consist of different styles. For instance, shades consist of cellular, roller, and roman just to name a few. A very basic description for each is as follows: • Blinds- Wood, composite, or metal slats suspended in the window by a series of cords, or vertical slats that are connected directly to the headrail.

• Shades- typically these are constructed from some type of fabric.

Some are made from natural materials such as bamboo or other grasses and must be moved out of the window to be able to see through it.

• Drapery- This is basically another way to say curtains, but there’s nothing basic about them. Drapery can often have the most dramatic effect on your space of all the window treatments and can be paired with other window coverings to add depth and layering to the look.

• Shutters- Quite possibly the most classic of all the window treatments.

Shutters are essentially louvered doors for your windows. This is also the only type of window treatment that will actually increase the value of your home, as they are considered a permanent fixture.

You get what you pay for. Let’s face it everybody wants to save money, it’s where you decide to save that money that matters. There is no denying that the most beautiful and superior quality window dressings will be reflected in the price tag. Sure, you could get something

off the shelf at your local hardware store or mega-mart and go home and throw them up yourself, but chances are high that they won’t be want you really want and will likely need to be replaced frequently.

Finally, consult with a professional. As previously stated, window treatments can have a tremendous impact on the look and feel of your space. Isn’t this something that’s worth doing right? Not to mention that it is super easy, we bring the showroom to you. You can shop right in your home and see how the materials, colors, and textures fit into your décor theme. Besides, do you really want spend hours trying to figure out how to get the right size and style for your windows and they try to install them all yourself?

Richard McCann Richard owns and operates Made in the Shade Willamette Valley Call (503) 581-8257 today to book your free in home consultation. www.mitsmidwv.com

www.willametteliving.com

19

Books Dec/Jan 2020

A curated list from your librarians at the Corvallis-Benton County Public Library.

Bloom

By Kevin Panetta

Digital Minimalism: Choosing a Focused Life in a Noisy World

By Cal Newport

Bloom is a sweet look at a budding LGBTQ relationship between Ari, reluctant assistant in his family’s bakery, and Hector, the newest bakery employee and enthusiastic home baker. Ari meets Hector after high school graduation, when all he wants is to move to the city with his band, but his family relies on his help at their Greek bakery. Hector has just moved to the town after a break-up with a previous boyfriend and isn’t really looking for love. They become close while working together…and then disaster strikes that threatens to tear them apart. Check out this graphic novel if you love sweet romances, coming of age stories, and/or books with LGBTQ characters.

Kristy

Brother

By David Chariandy Winner of several awards and accolades, this novel gives voice to growing up in the 90’s in a tough Toronto neighborhood called the Park.

Two brothers, Michael and Francis, try to balance the conflicting expectations of home and neighborhood. They struggle to prove themselves on the street, while still holding onto their ambitions beyond the streets as well. This is a well-written quick read that is engaging and deals with important issues like racism and masculinity.

Mike

If you, like this reviewer, have found yourself pondering the amount of time spent on your smartphone, tablet, or other internetconnected device, then take the time to read or listen to this new title by Cal Newport, author of Deep Work. Newport provides facts, studies, and information about the “attention economy” created by online vendors, retailers, app developers, and social media networks – facts that are equal parts enlightening and startling. Leaders in the attention economy use psychological and strategic methods to keep users active with their online devices for as long as possible because it is profitable to them, but detrimental to the users. To learn how to break free from this cycle of constant digital connection, check out Digital Minimalism for a look at another way to interact with our ubiquitous technology without negatively impacting your mental health and relationships in real life.

story. Renee Nault has transformed the bleak world where women have no rights and little value except as breeders of children into a lush and gorgeous graphic novel retelling of Margaret Atwood’s terrifying dystopia. The accompanying art truly brings the characters to life, and illustrates the dehumanizing roles many women are forced to take on in this futuristic version of the United States.

Follow the story of Offred as she attempts to navigate her role as a fertile women turned handmaiden, offered to wealthy men to conceive and bear their children or else face death in failure. While the story is disturbing at best, the art is a feast for the eyes; together, they make this book something that will stick with readers for a long time.

Kristy

The Hunting Accident: A True Story of Crime and Poetry

By David Carlson with art by Landis Blair

This is a graphic memoir about a young boy who goes to live with his dad, whom he hasn’t spent much time with since his parents’ divorce, after his mother dies. His dad is a Kristy blind poet and most of the story is about his secret life as a Chicago gangster Handmaid’s Tale - Graphic Novel blinded in a shootout and sent to prison. In adaptation prison, he becomes close to Nathan

By Margaret Atwood with art and Leopold, of the infamous Leopold and adaptation by Renee Nault Loeb. Leopold actually helps him come to terms with his blindness. It’s a fascinating If you have been story illustrated beautifully by Landis Blair. curious about the The artwork captured incorporated classic dystopian elements of Braille in a way that was world in The visually stunning. This is one of those stories Handmaid’s Tale, but that really demonstrates the power of the haven’t had a chance graphic medium to create a story that is to read the original absolutely unique, arresting, and could novel, check out this never be replicated with just prose. It’s also 2019 graphic novel a story about how a boy and his dad learn adaptation of the to live with each other and understand each other after not being close and coming from two very different worlds. An Librarian’s unexpected story that is Picks Corvallis-Benton County brilliantly told. Bonnie

PUBLIC LIBRARY

20

Willamette Living Magazine December / January 2020

The NeedÂ

The Only Road

Patron Saint of Liars

By Helen Phillips

By Alexandra Diaz

By Ann Patchett

Molly hears what sounds like footsteps in her home. It might be an intruder, but it might just be normal house noises. She is home alone with her young children, and she will do anything to keep them safe while trying not to overreact, because there’s no need to frighten the kids if the noises amount to nothing. What begins as an everyday fear, noises in the night, slowly escalates with each brilliant twist and turn of the story into an exploration of a mother’s greatest fears. Nearly every anxiety felt by parents, particularly mothers, is explored in this novel. This makes it a terrifying read for anyone with children, or even those who worry about things that go bump in the night.

I highly recommend it. Mike

Alexandra Diaz’s The Only Road is a realistic look at Central American emigration to the US via Mexico, told through the eyes of a young teen, Jaime, and his cousin, Angela.

When Angela’s brother and Jaime’s cousin Miguel is brutally murdered by a local gang for not joining them, the two surviving cousins know they will be the gang’s next targets.

Though also dangerous and risky, their families decide it’s better for Angela and Jaime to travel from their native Guatemala through Mexico and make an illegal crossing into the US to live with Jaime’s older brother.

Diaz pulls no punches as she shows the dangers of this journey, as well as exploring the myriad reasons why people would risk their lives to escape the dreadful fates they face by staying in their home countries, through the tales of the people the two cousins meet along the way. The Only Road is an excellent example of how very difficult, harrowing, and relevant stories can be written for a middle grade or middle school audience.

You know...

Ann Patchett writes very readable fiction about relationships and domestic situations. I turn to her novels for a quick read (most of her books are 350 pages or under) that focuses on relationships between people and the impact those relationships have. This is her first novel about a pregnant young woman, Rose, who abandons her life and finds herself at a Catholic home for unwed mothers. While not unwed, she decides to stay and ends up spending a significant part of her life there, raising her daughter there as well. Rose is a difficult and complicated woman. Her daughter struggles to be close to her and navigates an interesting childhood among the young women and nuns that also stay in the home. Well written, interesting characters, and a solid read for lovers of domestic/ family fiction. If you’re new to Patchett though, I’d start with Bel Canto or Run.

Kristy Bonnie

All kinds of things happen at the library!

For more information visit: https://cbcpubliclibrary.net

gazine • W Ma i

Best of t

he

lley 2019 • W Va

er ! nn

mette Livin g illa

T W O L O C AT I O N S I N D O W N T O W N C O RVA L L I S A C C E P T I N G C O N S I G N M E N T S 7 D AY S A W E E K A L L I T E M S TA K E N S E A S O N A L LY

SECOND GLANCE 3 1 2 S W 3 R D S T. 541-753-8011

THE ANNEX 214 SW JEFFERSON 541-758-9099 www.willametteliving.com

21

Holiday Tradition

Valley Tradition, Winter’s Eve Corvallis

By Carol Reeves Our first Winter’s Eve Corvallis was in 2004. Assistance League needed a new event to fund our programs. We had a brain storming session and came up with 101 ideas. During the first years, it seemed like we tried to incorporate 99 of those ideas into one event. We started out with two large tents on Madison Ave. Special Occasions (party rentals) put the tents up in the middle of the night. Unsure of how long the heaters would last, we didn’t turn them on during setup the first year and were frozen by the time we got the tents up and going.

The first several years we tried a tree auction, made custom wreaths for sale, and had live entertainment. We have slowly but surely shaped it into the event it is today. The tree & wreath sales have gone by the wayside and we have condensed our event into one, block size tent which Special Occasions purchased for this event. In looking through the pictures I noticed a lot of restaurants and businesses have come and gone. It was fun to see the Gables, Michael’s Landing & Burtons (all gone now) participating in our first event. In 2004 we had 22 restaurants in the tent and this year we have 35 restaurants! Stores have come & gone too. We always try to get new merchants involved each year--It is a great way to showcase your store.

We have 15 stores that have been with us the last 16 years.

Back in the Day, Tree Auction

Local artist Jan Roberts-Dominguez has created all the artwork for our event. Each year she creates a new design which we make into cards & ornaments.

Our most exciting year was in 2013.

We had 9 inches of snow in downtown Corvallis. It was the most snow in 20 years. The tent goes up Thursday night and it hadn’t snowed yet. Once the tent was up, we were all in. A few stores had to close but most of them stayed open. Several members were snowed in and couldn’t make

22

Willamette Living Magazine December / January 2020

Snow! The Tent 2013

Back in the Day Wreath Sales

Our Artist Jan Roberts Dominquez

HEALTH FITNESS

FUN

The most current state-of-the-art fitness equipment, and trained staff available to answer your questions.

More than 120 hrs. per week of group exercise classes including Zumba, Nia, Pilates, 3 types of yoga, Step, Cardio, Goup Power (weights) and even Line Dancing!

Aquatic Exercise Classes

2 indoor pools for classes and lap swimming Warm water pool for therapy fitness for arthritis, fibromyalgia and orthopedic type issues

Brave Troopers! Setup 2005

it but we covered our bases. Everyone was in a festive mood and those who made it downtown had a great time. There was really nothing else in town that night, so we had extra sales at the door.

Each year we try & add something new. The last 3 years we have had an exciting raffle. The first year we had a Keith Urban Guitar, the second year we had an electric bicycle and this year we had a $1000 gift card to Market of Choice and an inflatable paddle board.

Connect with us on Facebook for current events, specials and more!

facebook.com/TimberhillAthleticClub

2855 NW 29th St. in Corvallis Call Us Today at 541-757-8559

WWW.TIMBERHILLAC.COM www.willametteliving.com

23

Pinot Noir Willamette Valley Pinot Gris » Pinot Blanc Rosé of Pinot Noir » Chardonnay Red Blend

Brother Red is no typical Oregon wine.

Inky and purple, this bottling offers up big, ripe, brambly fruit aromas, hints of toasty oak, and racy overtones of smoke, pepper, and rocky earth.

Thomas Leggate Brother Red, at Emerson Vineyards now.

To order Call 503-838-0944 OPTION1

Seafood Market

Wild Caught & Ocean Fresh!

Salmon Halibut Crab

Live Tanks! Hot Soup!

Tuna Lobster Rockfish

Cod Shrimp Clams

1925 SE 3rd St. in Corvallis | 541-752-0558 | pacificaseafood@gmail.com Open Wednesday through Sunday 10AM - 6PM

/PacificaSeafoods 24

Willamette Living Magazine December / January 2020

810 Applegate St. Philomath, OR 97370 541-929-6555 comptonwines.com SUMMER TASTING ROOM HOURS: Open Thursdays – Sunday 12 noon – 5 p.m., Jun-Aug WINTER TASTING ROOM HOURS: Open Fridays – Sundays 12 noon – 5 p.m., Sep-May

How to die young at a very old age - part VI I would like you to ponder the following: “Aging is a disease, and that disease is treatable.” (Dr. David Sinclair)

I

share Dr. Sinclair’s vision of the not so distant future when this will become a reality.

In a basic biological sense, aging is the cumulative effect of oxidative stress on your body.

Oxidative stress is a mismatch between the amount of free radicals and the availability of anti-oxidants. When that happens your cells, including your DNA, quite literally “rust”. No breathing being can escape this process as this is the way your cells produce the energy to sustain life.

There are many factors that contribute to this “rusting”: poor diet, sleep deprivation, both physical and emotional stress, specific nutritional deficiencies, over-exercising, leaky gut (you may have heard about it by now), pollutant exposure such as car exhaust when you are commuting or when your passenger is vaping, toxicity such as from the amalgam in your mouth, the aluminum in your cookware and in your flu vaccine, the BPA in your grocery receipt and your coffee cup, the glyphosate in RoundUp or for that matter in the irrigation water of the crops in California, unfortunately even from

the organic farms (which isn’t to say you shouldn’t eat all organically) and last but not least the electro-smog from wireless devices which is about to get much worse because of 5G implementation.

This list is by no means exhaustive.

Do you recognize a common denominator? Yes, all these factors are, more or less, under our control, if not individually, then at least when looking at humanity as a whole.

This is the reason why aging is “treatable.”

Not because there will be a pill that people can take to undo their lifestyle choices.

same reason I am usually hesitant to sign an application for a disabled parking placard for my patients, unless they really are immobilized already. You should in fact park as far away from the grocery store as you possibly can as to build exercise into your daily routines.

As a closing thought, take the following with you: Only 10% of your wellbeing is estimated to be determined by your genetic makeup, 90% is in your lifestyle and environment.

A good example is movement. It is no coincidence that 4 out of 5 of the so-called Blue Zones (areas around the world known for a particularly high rate of centenarians) are located in mountainous regions. People in these areas habitually walk up and down inclines of various degrees all day long.

Therefore it is wrong for you to prepare for your “later years” by moving into a single level home. It actually becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy: because you moved into a single level home you will move less against gravity and as a result become decrepit much earlier. For the

Dr. Sievert founded, owns, and operates the Thrive Clinic in Corvallis.

He can be reached at: 541-207-1670 or visit his website www.thethriveclinic.com www.willametteliving.com

25

Getaway to the Rose City

26

Willamette Living Magazine December / January 2020

Photo: Justin Katigbak, Travel Portland

www.willametteliving.com

27

I

t’s always fun to take the short drive up I-5 to Portland. We are lucky to have one of the most vibrant, and fun cities in the country right up the road! There are great places to eat and drink, and shop and sightsee all year, but the holidays are always a special time of year to enjoy the city lights.

For this issue, we called upon the expertise of staff at Travel Portland to request their guidance on some of the high points not to be missed on a trip to Portland, any time of year.

They were very gracious in light of our last-minute call for help.

Katie McGuigan was happy to go to work and compile a list of attractions and photos for us.

Here's what Katie recommends:

Max Light Rail on the Bridge Photo: Travel Portland

Notable Portland Attractions The Architectural Heritage Center 701 S.E. Grand Ave. / 503.231.7264 / www.visitahc.org The Architectural Heritage Center is a non-profit resource for historic preservation owned and operated by the Bosco-Milligan Foundation. As “home base” for heritage conservation in the Portland metro area, the AHC hosts dozens of educational programs, home and walking tours, and exhibits each year which help people appreciate and preserve older and historic buildings, neighborhoods, and traditional commercial areas.

The Grotto 8840 N.E. Skidmore St. / 503.254.7371 / www.thegrotto.org

Holiday Lights at the Grotto Photo: Travel Portland

The Grotto is an internationally renowned Catholic sanctuary set among 62 acres of botanical gardens. Statues and shrines are nestled among flower-lined pathways winding under towering firs. Peaceful ponds, spectacular vistas and award-winning architecture add to the quiet and reflective nature of The Grotto’s well-kept grounds. Visit during December for the annual Christmas Festival of Lights which includes outdoor holiday light displays and a nativity, as well as nearly 160 indoor choral concerts. Regional school, church and civic choirs travel for the opportunity to perform in The Grotto’s 600-seat chapel that features cathedral-quality acoustics.

The Oregon Historical Society 1200 S.W. Park Ave. / 503.222.1741 / www.ohs.org

Powell's Books on Burnside Photo: Travel Portland

Art Installation at Powell's Books Photo: Travel Portland

28

Willamette Living Magazine December / January 2020

As a steward of Oregon’s history, the Oregon Historical Society educates, informs, and engages the public through collecting, preserving, and interpreting the past. The OHS artifacts collection comprises more than 85,000 artifacts, including ancient objects from the earliest settlements and objects that illustrate exploration in the Oregon Territory, the growth of business and industry, the development of artwork and crafts, maritime history, and many other topics.

Fun Portland Facts: Portland hosts a "naked bike ride." It's in June though, don't try it now, it's freezing. Portland was named on a coin toss. Had that coin landed on the other side, this article would be about Boston, Oregon! PDX is ranked as the world's best airport by Travel & Leisure Magazine. Portland has the largest number of vegetarian and vegan options in the country. Portland's Powell's Books is the largest independently owned bookstore in the world. Portland had the first female mayor in the country in the 1950's. The Great Blue Heron is the official bird of the city of Portland.

The Oregon Jewish Museum and Center for Holocaust Education (OJMCHE) 724 N.W. Davis St. / 503.226.1800 / www.ojmche.org The Oregon Jewish Museum and Center for Holocaust Education (OJMCHE) opened its new location in June 2017 with three core exhibits: Discrimination and Resistance, An Oregon Primer, which identifies discrimination that affected various groups of people over the history of the Northwest; The Holocaust, An Oregon Perspective, a history of the Holocaust that highlights stories of Oregon survivors; and Oregon Jewish Stories, an installation focused on the experience of Jews in Oregon. The museum’s rotating main gallery showcases projects from Jewish artists and collaborations around the world. Next to the gift shop, Lefty’s Café showcases Jewish Food History with American-Jewish specialties such as, tuna salad on a Kaiser roll, Mandelbrot or rugelach pastries or “Al’s” Chocolate Egg cream and “two cent” pretzel.

Barista at Coava Coffee. Photo: Travel Portland

The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) 1945 S.W. Water Ave. / 503.797.4000 / www.omsi.edu Founded in 1944 and moved to its present site in 1992, the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) is one of the nation’s leading science centers. With a planetarium, a giant-screen theater, a retired navy submarine (the USS Blueback is docked in the river right outside), traveling exhibits of all kinds, permanent hands-on exhibits and laboratories, and “After Dark” events that pair science talk with beer and wine for guests 21-and-over. Check out on-site eatery, Theory Café, for a quick snack or a scoop of ice cream from local favorite Salt & Straw.

The Oregon Zoo 4001 S.W. Canyon Rd. / 503.226.1561 / www.oregonzoo.org Founded in 1888, the oldest zoo west of the Mississippi is located minutes from downtown Portland via MAX light rail in the visitor-friendly Washington Park. The Oregon Zoo is home to 1,800 animals representing 232 species or subspecies. A new, earth-friendly Education Center (sporting more than 700 solar panels) expands the zoo’s conservation education efforts with classrooms and meeting space. It is part of a multi-year transformation, which includes the relatively recent Elephant Lands habitat – encouraging elephant activity with hilly corridors, shady stretches and cooling pools – and the Condors of the Columbia aviary with elevated viewing areas for guests to enjoy a bird’s-eye view. Look for the Polar Passage to provide a new habitat for polar bears in 2019. In the meantime, enjoy special events at the zoo with concerts on the lawn in the summer, or the dazzling display of holiday lights at Zoo Lights during November and December.

The Pittock Mansion 3229 N.W. Pittock Dr. / 503.823.3623 / www.pittockmansion.org

The Knockback Bar, Alberta Arts District. Photo: Travel Portland

The Oregon Zoo Photo: Justin Katigbak, Travel Portland

High in the West Hills above Northwest Portland, the historic turn-of-the-century Pittock Mansion offers picture-perfect views of the city and its surroundings, as well as a revealing glimpse of Portland’s past. Designed in French Renaissance style, the mansion is characterized by its impressive architecture and 23 art- and antique-filled rooms, where you can learn about the city’s history and the fascinating success story of early Portland moguls Henry and Georgiana Pittock, instrumental in the early development of Portland. Visit in December to see the mansion transformed into an opulent winter wonderland.

The Pittock Mansion Photo: Justin Katigbak, Travel Portland

www.willametteliving.com

29

Holiday Fun in Portland Christmas Ships Parade (December 5-22, 2019) The Christmas Ship Fleet cruises between the Willamette and Columbia rivers, offering the Portland area thrilling Christmas time parades. The Portland tradition that started with one decorated boat is a volunteer organization. The privately-owned vessels come from Portland, Vancouver, McMinnville, Salem and Hood River areas.

Some of the ship’s owners have been part of Christmas tradition for more than 30 years with many being part of the fleets for over 20 years.

Festival of Lights at the Portland Grotto (November 29 to December 30) A must-visit if you're in Portland during the holiday season. The Festival of Lights at the Grotto is a spectacular event that features 150 indoor music concerts as well as dramatic living history enactments and holiday light displays that include over a half million bulbs. The beautiful outdoor garden setting, lighted Christmas trees and outdoor carolers create a warm holiday feel, and a life-sized nativity scene anchors the entire event. Outdoor tented family entertainment runs continuously each night in the plaza. The master puppeteer presents a Christmas themed show at 6:00, 7:00 and 8:00 p.m. The event runs the Friday after Thanksgiving thru December 30, nightly from 5 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. (Closed on Christmas day) Tickets cost between $5-$10 depending on age.

Oregon Zoo Lights (November 29 to January 5) www.oregonzoo.org Visit the Oregon Zoo website for the most up-to-date information on this holiday tradition.

Peacock Lane Christmas Lights (December 15-31) www.peacocklane.org Since the early 1900s the homes on Portland’s Peacock Lane have decorated extensively for the holidays and the trend continues to this day at this annual Portland Holiday tradition. A full street of Tudor style homes with years, sometimes decades of decorating evolution on display beginning Dec. 15.

30

Willamette Living Magazine December / January 2020

The Portland Art Museum 1219 S.W. Park Ave. / 503.226.2811 / www.portlandartmuseum.org The seventh oldest museum in the United States and the oldest on the West Coast, the Portland Art Museum is internationally recognized for its permanent collection and ambitious special exhibitions drawn from its holdings and some of the world's finest public and private collections. The museum's collection of more than 42,000 objects, displayed in 112,000 square feet of galleries, reflects the history of art from ancient times to today. The collection is distinguished for its holdings of arts of the indigenous people of North America, English silver, and the graphic arts. An active collecting institution, the museum devotes 90 percent of its galleries to its permanent collection. The museum is currently engaged in work on the Rothko Pavilion, named in honor of painter Mark Rothko and his local legacy, which would connect the museum’s Main Building with the Mark Building while adding gallery and community space.

The Portland Children’s Museum 4015 S.W. Canyon Rd. / 503.223.6500 / www.portlandcm.org For family-friendly days filled with hands-on learning, the Portland Children’s Museum provides a fun-filled destination in prime surroundings (it boasts proximity to the Oregon Zoo, World Forestry Center and Hoyt Arboretum in Washington Park).

On its own, the museum features more than a dozen permanent exhibits, a clay studio, a tree house, a theater and an outdoor adventure area sprawling across 1.3 acres.

The World Forestry Center Discovery Museum 4033 S.W. Canyon Rd. / 503.228.1367 / www.worldforestry.org The family-focused World Forestry Center Discovery Museum features interactive exhibits designed to educate visitors about the sustainability of forests and the history of the logging industry in the Pacific Northwest and around the world. Built in dramatic Cascadian-style architecture, the iconic structure spans two levels and offers a “wet-free” raft ride, bird’s-eye forest views and insights to global challenges.

For travel information, may we suggest the friendly staff at Travel Portland!

888-427-1372 www.travelportland.com Visitor Center: 877 SW Taylor St. in Portland Monday--Friday 9AM - 4PM

Queen’s Chopstick

del Alma

Not just Chinese food!

An exciting menu of new Latin fusion cuisine. Fabulous riverfront bar, special events, extensive wine list. A truly memorable dining experience.

Our Asian fusion menu will delight you. You’ll love our chic new restaruant, and our delicious menu items presented with style. Many reviewers have called ours “the best asian food in Corvallis,� come find out why.

Menus and more at: delalmarestaurant.com Open for dinner Mon - Thurs 5:00 -- 9:30 Fri & Sat 5:00 - 10:00

www.queenschopstick.com 11:00 am 10:00 pm Sun-Wed 11:00 am 11:00 pm Thurs-Sat

gazine • Wi n Ma

2019 • lley W Va

136 SW Washington Ave er! Best of the n Suite 102, Corvallis

541-753-2222

2329 Kings Blvd Corvallis

541-758-9166

ette Livin am g ill

gazine • Wi n Ma

Novak’s Hungarian

Opened in 1984 by Joseph and Matilda Novak, Novak’s is Oregon’s only Hungarian restaurant!

ette Livin am g ill

A local landmark for over 30 years.

Our bakers and chefs are at work around-the-clock preparing all your favorite dishes and baked goods using only the finest ingredients.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, or anything in between. Now offering catering too.

Mon-Sat 7:00 - 9:00 Sunday 8:00 - 8:00

2019 • lley W Va

Mon, Wed & Thurs: 8:00 - 8:00 st r! Be of the Friday: 8:00 - 9:30 ne

Saturday: 7:30 - 9:30

Sunday: 7:30 - 4:00

Closed on Tuesdays gazine • Wi n Ma

New Morning Bakery

Today, locally sourced ingredients, sustainable practices, and the same love from the “old country� goes into every dish.

ette Livin am g ill

208 2nd St. SW in Albany

Best of th e

2019 • lley W Va

r! ne

219 SW 2nd St. Downtown Corvallis NewMorningBakery.com 541-754-0181

541-967-9488 www.novakshungarian.com

Kaiyo Sushi Albany’s new sushi sensa�on.

Kaiyo Sushi is the place for a quick lunch mee�ng, date night, or family night out.

Delicias Valley Cafe Owners LupĂŠ & Carlos invite you to come have breakfast, lunch or dinner.

Delicious, authentic Mexican foods prepared in-house.

Watch as expertly prepared sushi oats past your seat on our conveyor, and pick your favorites.

Fresh ingredients & skilled chefs combine to bring you savory dishes your whole family will love.

Sashimi, sushi, vegetarian and vegan op�ons -- even dessert.

gazine • Wi n Ma

Best of th e

ette Livin am g ill

(541) 497-2622

r! ne

2019 • lley W Va

A taste of Japan, in Albany. Come by today and have some sushi!

Open 11 am to 10 pm 2826 San�am Hwy SE, Albany, OR 97322 (Next to Elmer’s)

Mon - Sat: 8:00 - 9:00 Sunday: 8:00 - 8:30 Breakfast Buffet Sat & Sun Only: 9:00 - 12:00 933 NW Circle Blvd in Corvallis

(Across the street from Market of Choice)

541-753-0599 www.deliciasvalleycafe.com www.willametteliving.com

31

In Season

Apples An apple has about 80 calories. They are fat-free, sodium-free, and cholesterol-free and are an excellent source of fiber.

Apples ripen six to ten times faster at room temperature.

There are more than 8,000 varieties of apples – the largest variety of fruit to exist.

Apples are the second-most valuable fruit grown in the U.S. (oranges being the first).

More than 2,500 varieties of apples are grown in the United States, but only the crabapple is native to North America.

Life expectancy for apple tree is about 100 years.

Apples float in water because they are 25% air.

The top ten varieties produced in the United States are Gala, Red Delicious, Granny Smith, Fuji, Golden Delicious, Honeycrisp, Mcintosh, Rome, Cripps Pink, and Empire.

The fear of apples is known as Malusdomesticaphobia.

Apple juice was one of the earliest prescribed antidepressants.

Archaeologists have found evidence that people have been eating apples since 6,500 B.C.

Archeologists have found evidence that humans have been enjoying apples since at least 6500 B.C.

Apples harvested from an average tree can fill 20 boxes that weigh 42 pounds each.

Apples are a member of the rose family.

It takes about 36 apples to create one gallon of apple cider.

The apple tree originated in Central Asia.

They have been grown for thousands of years in Asia and Europe and were brought to North America by European colonists.

32

Willamette Living Magazine December / January 2020

The apple is the state fruit of Minnesota, New York, Vermont, Washington and West Virginia.

est of the V

2019 • W ill ley

e azin • Winn ag

!B

al

er

Li ette ving M am

Crockpot Crisp INGREDIENTS: • • • • • • • • • • • •

8 apples, peeled, and sliced 1 tablespoon lemon juice 1/3 cup packed brown sugar 2 teaspoons Cinnamon pinch of salt CINNAMON OAT CRUMBLE INGREDIENTS: 1 cup (uncooked) old-fashioned oats 1/2 cup all-purpose flour 1/3 cup packed brown sugar 1 teaspoon Cinnamon pinch of salt 4 tablespoons melted butter

INSTRUCTIONS: Add apples and lemon juice to a large mixing bowl and toss to combine.

Sprinkle the brown sugar, cinnamon and salt evenly on top, and toss until completely combined. Pour the mixture into a large slow cooker and spread to form an even layer.

In a large mixing bowl (you can use the same one you used for the apples), prepare the crumble.

Mix the oats, almonds, flour, sugar, cinnamon and salt. Drizzle the melted butter over the mixture, and then stir until combined.

Sprinkle the crumble mixture on top of the apples.

Place a dish towel on top of the slow cooker bowl and then place the lid on top of the towel. The towel will help soak up the condensation along the top of the lid and keep the crumble nice and crisp.

Cook on high for 3-4 hours, or on low for 6-8 hours until the apples are soft and cooked through. Remove the lid and the towel(s) and serve immediately—with vanilla ice cream if you like.

FRESH LOCAL

ORGANIC

APPLES

North Corvallis 2855 NW Grant Ave South Corvallis 1007 SE Third St Open daily 7am-10pm

www.firstalt.coop @firstaltcoop

Apple Walnut Salad INGREDIENTS • • • • • • • • • • •

8 cups “Spring Mix” lettuce greens 1 medium apple (your choice) cored and thinly sliced 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onions 3/4 cup walnut halves, toasted + roughly chopped 1/3 cup crumbled Gorgonzola (Oregonzola if you’re a true believer) cheese VINAIGRETTE 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil 2 Tbsp. balsamic vinegar 1 Tbsp. Dijon mustard 2 tsp. honey Kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper

INSTRUCTIONS

Prepare the vinaigrette: in a small bowl, combine the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, mustard, and honey. Whisk until blended.

Season with salt and pepper, to taste.

Assemble the salad: in a large bowl combine the lettuce, apples, red onions, walnuts, and crumbled cheese. Drizzle with desired amount of vinaigrette and serve immediately. You may have leftover vinaigrette, which can be refrigerated in an airtight container for at least a week.

Apple Galette INGREDIENTS Pastry: • • • • • • • • • • • • •

2 1/2 c. plus 1 tbsp. all-purpose flour 6 tbsp. sugar 1/4 tsp. Sea Salt 1 1/2 stick plus 1 tbsp. unsalted butter 3 tbsp. shortening 4 large Granny Smith apples Zest of 1 large orange 2 tbsp. fresh orange juice Butterscotch Sauce: 1 c. packed brown sugar 4 tbsp. unsalted butter 1 c. half-and-half 1/4 tsp. vanilla extract

DIRECTIONS Pastry: In a large bowl, combine 2 1/2 cups chilled flour, 3 tablespoons sugar, and salt. Add cubed butter and shortening; cut into flour with a pastry

blender, or pulse in food processor. Mix in 3 to 4 tablespoons ice water until a loose dough forms. Quickly shape dough into a disk, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

In a large bowl, toss apples with orange zest and juice. Preheat oven to 425 degrees F. Roll out dough on a well-floured surface to a 14-inch circle. Transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet.

In a small bowl, mix remaining 1 tablespoon flour and 2 tablespoons sugar; sprinkle over dough. Layer apples on dough, leaving about a 2-inch border.

Fold edges over apples; lightly brush apples with melted butter and dough with 1 tablespoon water. Sprinkle remaining 1 tablespoon sugar over dough and apples.

Bake until crust is golden, and apples are tender, about 40 minutes. Lift parchment to transfer galette to a rack to cool.

To make butterscotch sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, cook brown sugar and butter until mixture begins to bubble. Stir in halfand-half and return to a boil. Boil for 5 minutes, stirring frequently, then remove from heat and stir in vanilla, if desired.

Drizzle over Galette to serve.

Le Patissier

Baked Apples INGREDIENTS • • • • • •

4 apples (Liberty, Gold Rush, etc.)

1/2 cup raisins or other dried fruit 2 Tbsp. brown sugar 1/2 tsp. cinnamon 1/4 tsp. nutmeg 1/3 cup water

INSTRUCTIONS

Preheat oven to 350°F. Core apples with a paring knife, leaving enough core in the bottom to hold the filling. Place them in a small casserole. In a small bowl, mix raisins, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Fill each apple with this mixture. Pour water into casserole, at base of apples. Bake for 4045 minutes or until apples are tender. Serve warm topped with ice cream or whipped cream, if desired. *Recipe compliments of First Alternative Co-op.

Apple Butter INGREDIENTS e azin • Winn ag

est of the V

Li ette ving M am

Slice apples into small pieces.

Place apples in a large crockpot.

In a medium-sized bowl stir together sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, and cloves.

Pour sugars over apple pieces and stir.

Cook covered in crockpot over low heat for 10 hours.

After 10 hours, puree apples in blender until smooth and no chunks remain.

Add vanilla extract.

Cook in crockpot (low heat) another 2 hours uncovered, stirring occasionally— longer if you prefer thicker.

Store apple butter in the refrigerator in an airtight container, will keep about 2 weeks.

!B

2019 • W ill ley

INSTRUCTIONS

French Pastry Savory Dishes Wedding Cakes Special Events

er

al

• 5.5 lbs. Apples cored and chopped into small pieces. • 1 cup brown sugar tightly packed • 3/4 cup white sugar • 1 Tablespoon ground cinnamon • 1/4 teaspoon salt • 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves • 1 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

All prepared in-house from the freshest ingredients available.

541-752-1785

956 NW CIRCLE BLVD CORVALLIS

Vive la France ! www.willametteliving.com

35

Santiam Place Wedding & Event Hall

•

Your special place for: • Weddings & Receptions • Bridal & Baby Showers • Parties & Anniversaries • Family Gatherings

• Reunions • Barbecues • Meetings & Lectures • Presentations & More!

Shown by Appointment, Call Today: 541-259-4255 *party rentals available on-site!

139 Main St. in Lebanon

w w w. s a n t i a m p l a c e .c o m

CASH BUYER OLD GOLD JEWELRY • ROLEX WATCHES STERLING SILVER FLATWARE & JEWELRY

From

ind B the M

ehind

“MORT

“GOO ” and

D OME

NS”

Tickets:

A da

s Brigg phen e t S one by n Ca r tage h s o J e h y for t ted b pted Direc

Jan 31st & Feb 1st - 9th Evening performances at 7:30pm Matinee performances at 2:30pm

541-758-4055 36

5th & Madison Downtown Corvallis

Willamette Living Magazine October / November 2019

Tickets $14-16 Opening Night $10 Appropriate Audiences

A Holiday Tradition Since 1962! est of the V

2019 • W ill ley

e azin • Winn ag

!B

al

er

Li ette ving M am

in Corvallis

DOWNTOWN 204 SW Madison Avenue 541-752-5518

in EUGENE

IN THE OAKWAY CENTER 323 OAKWAY RD. SUITE F 458-210-2827

www.clothes-tree.com

www.willametteliving.com

37

REAL ESTATE

PROFESSIONAL HELP: Tips from local leaders in their industry

Ask Annette

If the Price is Right – You sell!

By Annette Sievert

“Price is not always the problem but always the solution”.

the value of a property. Markets working at their finest!

I don’t know who said this first, but it is just perfect. There is a right price for every single property.

To find a price you can take 4 approaches:

Some prices are easier to find, for instance in a development with lots of similar homes. Some properties are very difficult to price for their uniqueness, condition, updates, features and location.

The goal of pricing when a property is being listed is hitting the nail on the head, either finding that one perfect buyer who is ready, willing and able and just buys it, or pricing in a way the market finds very enticing, resulting in multiple offers and a true market price at the end.

I always find it rather fascinating when a multiple offer situation results in at least three or four offers very close together, thus showing that a multitude of buyers came to a very similar conclusion about

1. Properties that are sold, I usually take the last 12 months and brackets like size, age, lot size, location.

2. Properties in contract, to see how fast a comparable property was accepted by the market and at what price and waiting time frame.

3. Properties that are expired or have been on the market for a long time without an offer.

4. properties that are currently on the market and are direct competition for the property you want to sell.

Interestingly, these 4 approaches lead to similar results and very quickly you will see a cluster of potential prices.

I often hear the idea of pricing higher to have “wiggle room.” This never leads to a good outcome. The market knows when a property is overpriced. You will see less showings and the goal of good pricing--to entice as large a buyer pool as possible-will be missed. The best offers are coming in during the first 2 weeks from listing. If your house is overpriced it will sit and you will ultimately get less than if you had priced it correctly to begin with.

Sometimes sellers had their house on the market before and encountered a buyer who made an offer at their inflated price. Those sellers then see this offer as validation for their price, after all there was somebody who wanted it at this price. A buyer needs to be ready, willing and able.

If your former buyer was willing, but is neither ready nor able, it was not a true buyer. So, move on and trust the data. It usually tells the truth.

Happy selling,

Annette If your property is listed with a real estate broker, please disregard. It is not our intention to solicit offerings of other real estate brokers. We are happy to work with them and cooperate fully. ©2018 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker® is a registered trademark to Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. An Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity. Each office is independently owned and operated. ©2018 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker® is a registered trademark to Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. An Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity .

Each office is independently owned and operated. Information deemed reliable, but not guaranteed.

38

Willamette Living Magazine December / January 2020

Do you have a real estate question?

Ask Annette, at Coldwell Banker Valley Brokers in Corvallis 541-207-5551

YOUR FINANCES

PROFESSIONAL HELP: Tips from local leaders in their industry

5 Things You Might Be Surprised to Learn About Insurance

H

ow confident are you about the insurance strategies you have in place to protect against an unexpected turn in your life? Do you feel like you have a clear handle on how to manage your insurance needs effectively?

Before you answer, here are five aspects of insurance coverage that may surprise you:

1. Even a stay-at-home spouse may need life insurance.

We tend to think of insurance as something to replace income that would be lost if a person dies. But household contributions aren’t limited to take-home pay. A stay-at-home spouse is fulfilling a role that would be expensive to replicate if they were no longer around.

Think about the financial impact to the household if the spouse who took care of the home and other family members needed to be replaced.

2. Single people should be protected too.

Assuming you have no dependents, there may be no obvious reason to have life insurance in place. But you may still leave behind some expenses, such as funeral costs. Also, if you carry debts that outstrip your assets, family members may have to assume responsibility for them. One more consideration is that life insurance may be more attainable and economical if you buy it when you’re younger.

3. You may want to insure the lives of children.

How would your life be affected if your child passed away? Would it impact your ability, at least for a time, to carry on

with work and other aspects of your life?

While it’s a terrible prospect to have to contemplate, it is a possibility for which you may want some financial protection.

Life insurance on a young healthy, person can be very costs effective in most cases.

4. Too many people risk being underinsured, especially women.

According to a survey by the Life Insurance and Market Research Association, just 56% of women have life insurance coverage in place compared to 62% of men. In most cases today, the need for insurance coverage is generally equal regardless of gender.

5. Disability coverage may be even more important than life insurance.

Suffering a disabling injury or illness that sidelines you from work can have a dramatic impact on your income. Most people make life insurance a priority, but

Sten Carlson, CFP®, CLTC, CKA, MBA, is a Financial Advisor with PacWest Wealth Partners, a financial advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. in Corvallis, Oregon. He offers fee-based financial planning and asset management strategies and has been in practice for 25 years. To contact him, visit the team website at www.PacWestWealthPartners.com or call at 541-757-3000. Office address is 2396 NW Kings Blvd., Corvallis, OR.

for those who do not, the result is bills that risk going unpaid and financial goals unmet.

According to the Social Security Administration, more than one in four Americans age 20 or older will become disabled before retirement age. The risk is greater than you think.

Reviewing your protection needs is an important part of the financial planning process. Talk to your financial advisor if you have any concerns about your own coverage.

1

https://www.limra.com/globalassets/limra/

newsroom/fact-tank/fact-sheets/limras-factsabout-life-2019.pdf 2

https://www.ssa.gov/disabilityfacts/facts.html

Sten Sten Carlson PacWest Wealth Partners in Corvallis, OR. Contact him at Sten.E.Carlson@ampf.com 541-757-3000

Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. and its affiliates do not offer tax or legal advice. Consumers should consult with their tax advisor or attorney regarding their specific situation. Investment advisory products and services are made available through Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc., a registered investment adviser. Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. Member FINRA and SIPC. © 2019 Ameriprise Financial, Inc. All rights reserved.

www.willametteliving.com

39

STYLE GUIDE

PROFESSIONAL HELP: Tips from local leaders in their industry

Five reasons to buy a made to measure suit

By Oscar B. Hult

1. BEST QUALITY

4. BEST EXPERIENCE

If you have ever purchased a “discount suit” or one from one of those big box stores, you can attest to the fact that they don’t wear well. Whether for the office or for nights out with friends, a low-quality suit will start to show age very quickly.

Worn-out knees and elbows, drooping hems, and a shiny seat all cheapen a man’s appearance, his confidence and ultimately his success. No matter how you look at it a cheap is expensive. With a custom-made suit, you’ll be able to choose from a wide variety of quality fabrics that wear well, hang well and last longer, than those you get from most mass-produced suits.

Shopping is probably not high on your list of things to do but working with your custom suit consultant at a quality menswear shop should be an enjoyable time. Take a few moments to relax, have a beer or a cup of coffee and talk with your tailoring consultant about what it is you want from your suit, what is missing from your wardrobe and the style that you want to convey. Once that is done and the measurements are taken, the suit will be built, and after your final fitting any adjustments can be made in house assuring that your suit fits you just as you want it to. You will love the look of the suit that was made just for you, and your menswear shop can keep your measurements and style information on file so that once that first suit is completed you can order again with ease, just choose the fabrics, and your next suit will be on its way.

2. BEST FIT There is no substitute for a suit that is made for you. While you can have an off-the-rack suit tailored to better fit you, nothing compares to one that was made just for you, to fit your body the way it should. You will feel better about yourself with a suit that really fits, and the only way to get that perfect fit is with a custom-tailored suit. A tailored suit coat is cut exactly to your measurements and constructed with layers of canvas that are sewn in to control the shape of the lapels and the chest, which means that it won’t just hang from your shoulders, but will instead build up your best features and hide the ones you’d prefer not to point out. The pants will be hemmed to hit your shoe at the length that suits your stature and makes you look and feel confident.

3. BEST STYLE A lot of suits from the box stores look the same. They are made to fit the largest number of people possible and while they may be cut in a way that resembles the current trends, they can never fully communicate your personal style.

5. BEST VALUE

Fashion is fleeting, but style is forever.

With a custom suit you can choose a boxy English style suit, a trimmer American cut, or a sleek and flashy Italian suit. Another plus: you can choose from hundreds of fabrics to compliment your coloring and build a better wardrobe overall. You also get to choose the buttons and linings that make the suit much more personal.

www.facebook.com/thenattydresser

An off-the-rack suit can be found at a bargain prices, but you get what you pay for. And a cheap suit will end up being expensive. Take into account the many trips to the drycleaners, the repair of failing hems, lost buttons and drooping fabric and the eventual need to replace it, your bargain suit ends up costing more than it’s worth. Compare that to the quality, attention to detail, and materials of a custom suit, that is truly an investment. Quality wool suits won’t wear down or get that shine from worn-out fabrics. A custom suit will be a true friend that you will enjoy for years to come.

Strong, virtually wrinkle-free, and will rarely require dry-cleaning, as true Merino wool is anti-microbial, and repels stains.

Oscar B. Hult is a co-owner of The Natty Dresser in Downtown Albany.

541-248-3561 Contact him at

www.thenattydresser.com

40

Willamette Living Magazine December / January 2020

Christmas Cheer

By Brenda Powell

GARDENING

In The Garden

This will be the first Christmas without my mom. As the shortest, darkest day of the year approaches I know why my ancient ancestors celebrated the winter solstice.

Right now, I need more color, cheer, and warmth. I long for the comfort of my mom’s Swedish recipes, especially the flat bread she referred to as hard tack. I have the special rolling pin and my greatgrandmother’s recipe. It has been over 30 years since I have baked it on my own, but this year I’m carrying on the tradition.

Also, I am craving color and flowering indoor plants-living, breathing beings. My moth orchids are sending up spikes, but it will be some weeks before they open.

The Anthuriums I divided last winter are in bloom, their pink, heart-shaped flowers brightening up my living room. This year I will buy my Poinsettia, the traditional Christmas flowering plant, early. In fact, I may buy more than one. There are so many pretty varieties in pinks, whites, reds, and multi-colors. Who cares if they bloom again? They’re cheaper than many cut flower bouquets and last a whole lot longer. Some of my Thanksgiving cactus started blooming in early November but there is one that waits to bloom until closer to Christmas. When I went to repot them this summer, two plants split into 5 and my guest bedroom can’t accommodate actual guests. And I left the biggest one in a greenhouse, choosing to take starts from it.

What I’m really coveting this year are Cyclamen! Big ones, little ones, even purple ones. They’re often fragrant. Yes, they go dormant in the summer, but I now have the luxury of rotating non-blooming plants out to my greenhouse. The sensible thing would be to toss them out when they are done, but this household doesn’t do that. I like to collect, and my husband is too sentimental. Am I worried about being

overrun by a jungle of plants? It is the gift giving time of year and what better present than a beautiful, blooming cactus!

are still one of the top selling flowering houseplants. Also water these from the bottom.

All the plants listed below flower best in medium light, such as in an east-facing window or slightly away from a west or south window.

Amaryllis: Pot up the bulb, water and watch them grow. Amaryllis are the queen of the winter-flowering plants. South African varieties bloom before Christmas if planted by mid-November. The Dutch varieties wait until January.

My top picks for indoor winter color:

Anthuriums: bring the allure of the tropics indoors. Heart-Shaped leaves and flowers with dramatic spathes in red, white, pink, purple and salmon.

Cyclamen: they’re a corm (bulb-like thing) and come in white, pink shades, red, and bi-colors. Some are lightly fragrant. Water from the bottom of the pot. If you’re a risk-taker like me, water them from the top but avoid the bulb.

They go dormant in the summer.

African violets: Joke all you want about it being a grandmother flower.

I’ve adored them since I was 19 and they

Poinsettias: Yes, you see them everywhere but that’s okay. They provide a big pop of color and they’re easy to maintain while they’re in bloom. Just keep them from getting cold and don’t let them sit in water in their cute mylar hats.

Insider fact: the colored leaves (bracts) are not the flowers. It’s the yellow center that are the true flowers. Finally, I give you permission to toss them out when they are done blooming. It gives you a chance to pick out another flowering plant from this list.

Brenda

Brenda Powell is a fourth generation owner of Garland Nursery in Corvallis.

Follow her writing at garlandnursery.wordpress.com

www.willametteliving.com

41

HEALTH & FITNESS

PROFESSIONAL HELP: Tips from local leaders in their industry

Give The Gift of Presence

By Kris Denning

N

o pun intended, but your presence is the best present you can offer anyone. When I speak of presence, I’m not just referring to being somewhere in body. The presence I’m referring to is being in the moment with someone, without your mind taking you somewhere else. And it is something, especially in the digital age, that many of us are lacking.

Picture it. You are at a family reunion taking a selfie with your Great Aunt. She smiles as you come close for the picture, happy to have you near. Then the photo is taken, and instead of having a nice visit with her, you spend the next 20 minutes figuring out the best filter for the picture, and whether you will post it on Instagram or Facebook. Ten minutes on the caption, then some notifications come through, yada yada yada. Oh sure, you were talking to your Aunt during this time, trying to explain Facebook to her (she doesn’t care), but you weren’t really with her, were you?

What about when your little one builds an amazing Lego tower with the new set you bought him? Are you on the floor helping build it? Are you asking him questions about it and letting him teach you what he is learning? Take that picture of him with the Lego tower. You will want that in a photo album to look at someday. Then get back in there with him. Don’t leave that precious moment to post that picture somewhere. It doesn’t matter! All that child wants is for you to see and hear him. And deep down, you want that connection too. You’re just distracted in the tornado of social media.

I’m not downing social media per se, but it is the biggest culprit in robbing us and

those we love, of our time and presence.

I will gladly date myself when I say that I remember when we would take a photo so we could capture a fun time, and then we’d get right back into making that memory. We couldn’t judge how it all looks and what people would think and retake it a thousand times to get just the right shot. And it was a blessing. And sometimes, rather amusing when those photos came back from the film hut to surprise us.

My wish for you and yours this holiday season and forever beyond, is that you gift others with your presence. Listen to that story that you don’t think you have time for, because you do have the time.

(You probably spent 10 minutes reading

about someone else’s story on Facebook anyway, right?) Share family meals device free. Play games, take walks, go on adventures! Live life! Not for the sake of showing the world that you are living it, but for the sake of living it. Our children are only under our roof for so long, and our pets, parents, and grandparents are only in our lives for so long. Be with those you love. Body, mind, and spirit. Our time here and those we share it with are precious. Be present.

Kris Kris Denning is a Certified Holistic Nutritionist and a yoga/pilates teacher at Timberhill Athletic Club.

Contact her at

healthytothesoul.com

42

Willamette Living Magazine December / January 2020

- -

Brow & Eyeliner

Tips for de-stressing the Holidays By Cheryl Lohman

• Set priorities for your time. Decide as a family on one (okay, maybe two) events you’d like to make time for. Maybe that’s Storybook Land or a holiday craft fair. Sprinkle in a holiday party or two and you’ll be set. Minimize the “have tosâ€? on your calendar.

azine • Win ag n

V

Eyebrows - Eyeliner - Lip Color Corrective - Areola Repigmentation

M

ette Living lam

Avoid enduring the stress and look for the ways to simply enjoy the season. Reduce the stress and experience the magic by finding ways to minimize your workload and save time.

AFTER

1 ey 20 9 • Wi l all

It’s true that there’s a lot to do every holiday season. But we’re letting the stress and the “must dos� interfere with what’s supposed to be a pleasant time for ourselves and our families. In a survey conducted by Healthline, 62 percent of people said their stress levels were “very or somewhat� higher during the holidays.

Only 10 percent of people said they had no holiday-related stress!

e

est of the r! B

BEFORE

Lip Color

L

ights are twinkling. Homes are decorated with trees and greenery. Everywhere you look you see signs of the holidays -- but you may also be feeling burdened. Instead of appreciating the sparkle of the season, you’re busy agonizing over how to shop for the perfect gifts, take the kids or grandkids to every fun Christmas event and perfectly prepare your home for hosting guests.

FREE Consultation by appointment...

Call:

541.740.1639 or visit:

www.OregonPermanentMakeup.com Cheryl Lohman, CPCP Oregon Licensed

MOVED t o 2380 NW Kings Cor vallis

• Not everything has to be homemade. If holiday baking is giving you more anxiety than delight, don’t think twice about getting your goods from a local bakery. Not everyone must produce Pinterest-worthy Christmas cookies. • Consider ways to reduce the time you spend doing housework or getting ready for guests. For example, you could hire a cleaning service for the holidays. • Simplify your personal self care routine. How can you always look great without spending lots of time? Permanent makeup for eyebrows, eyes and lips is a great solution. When you work with an experienced permanent cosmetic specialist who is a member of the Society of Permanent Cosmetic Professionals (SPCP), you’ll ensure that the intricate work of making you look beautiful day and night is done professionally.

Many women don’t think permanent makeup is for them or they don’t know how to get started. Permanent makeup can be customized and personalized so it fits you and your look. A qualified permanent makeup artist can show you photos of their work and take the time to answer your questions.

Cheryl Lohman CPCP, is a Certified Permanent Cosmetic Professional and owner of Oregon Permanent Makeup.

Contact her at 541-740-1639

Cheryl

Learn More at

www.OregonPermanentMakeup.com

www.willametteliving.com

43

The Hot Ticket

A Holly Jolly Christmas Tuesday Dec. 17, 7:30PM LaSells Stewart Center Corvallis https://lasells.oregonstate.edu/

Corvallis Indoor Winter Market Jan. 11 – April 11 / Saturdays 9AM—1PM Benton County Fairgrounds Corvallis www.corvalliswintermarket.wordpress.com

Trevor Noah, Loud & Clear Sat. Dec. 14, 7:30PM Moda Center Portland www.rosequarter.com

44

Willamette Living Magazine December / January 2020

The Hot Ticket New Years Eve with The Dead Band Dec. 31, 9PM—1AM The Oregon Garden www.oregongarden.org Silverton

Sesame Street Live Dec. 21, 2PM & 5:30PM Dec. 22, 10:30AM Moda Center Portland www.rosequarter.com

Itzhak Perlman Thurs. Jan. 16, 7:30PM Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall Portland www.arleneschnitzer.org

The Bell Ringer Sat. Dec. 21, 7:30PM Aladdin Theater Portland www.symphonynorth.com

Carols for the Season, Willamette Master Chorus Holiday Concert Dec. 14 & 15, 3PM Willamette University, Hudson Hall Salem www.willamettemasterchorus.org

For more local events, or to list your event, go to www.WillametteLiving.com www.willametteliving.com 45

Historic Nye Beach

*Mecca for the literary, scholarly and artistic.

Nye Beach Wine Cellar

for Artsake Gallery A Co-op of Local Artists Buy Local • Buy Handmade

255 NW Coast St.

541-265-3292

258 NW Coast St.

541-574-9070

Queen of Hearts

Jovi

Gifts & Lingerie 232 NW Coast St. Suite B

541-265-8220

708 NW Beach Dr.

A Taste of Ireland on the Oregon Coast Traditional Irish Fare, Imported Irish Beers on Tap, Full Bar, Minors welcome until 10pm, Patio Seating, Live Music.

Winter Hours Sunday-Thursday 11am-9pm Friday and Saturday 11am-10pm

www.nanasirishpub.com 613 NW 3rd St.

541-574-8787

749 NW 3rd St, in Nye Beach • (541) 264-2990

541-265-2118

The LaSells Stewart Center est of the V

2019 • W ill ley

e azin • Winn ag

!B

al

er

Li ette ving M am

December 2019 and January 2020 Events

Photo credit to Ari Denison

THE premier

CONCERTS AND PERFORMANCES

performing

Dec 6, 2019

7:30 p.m.

Corvallis-OSU Symphony: Holiday Concert ď ”

arts, meeting,

Dec 8, 2019

3:00 p.m.

Corvallis Youth Symphony Concert ď ”

Dec 10, 2019 7:30 p.m.

SAC Presents Mary Chapin Carpenter and Shawn Colvin: Together on Stage ď ”

center serving

Dec 15, 2019 3:00 p.m.

Eugene Ballet - The Nutcracker ď ”

the Corvallis

Dec 17, 2019 7:30 p.m.

The Emerald City Jazz Kings - A Holly Jolly Christmas ď ”

area, located

Jan 18, 2020 7:30 p.m.

SAC Presents Paul Dresher Ensemble: Schick Machine ď ”

and conference

on the Oregon State University

ď ” = Ticketed Event

LECTURES AND PUBLIC EVENTS Jan 20, 2020 11:00 a.m. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Keynote with Raquel Willis,

activist, writer and the executive editor of OUT Magazine

campus.

Free and open to the public

ART EXHIBITS Dec 10, ‘19 - Jan 27, ‘20

Willamette Valley PhotoArts Guild: The Road Less Traveled

Dec 12, 2019

Reception 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Feb 1 – Mar 12, 2020

Marine Food Webs: Drifters to Swimmers

Feb 6, 2020

Reception 5:00 to 7:30 p.m.

The LaSells Stewart Center

875 SW 26 Street Corvallis OR 97331 541-737-2402 lasells.oregonstate.edu

For a complete listing of events, tickets and latest updates, visit: lasells.oregonstate.edu

Starting at $499,000

Brand New Homes in Corvallis, Oregon

Model Home Open

• Single Family Homes from 2,210 SF and $499,000 Sat & Sun • 11am-3pm • Up to 4 Bedrooms, 3 Baths, At the corner of Country Club Dr & 53rd St, Corvallis Master & Guest Suites on Main Find details at • Close to OSU, Parks & More!

LegendHomes.com/Russell

Lee Eckroth can be reached at 541-760-4742 or RussellGardens@LegendHomes.com See Sales Representative for details. All information subject to change without notice and may not be reflected in our models, displays or written materials. Built by Legend Homes, CCB #55151.