Community

Day of the Dead, a Celebration of Life and Memory in Mexico

Each autumn, Mexico is filled with colors and music to celebrate the Day of the Dead, honoring those who have passed. This festival unites Indigenous and Catholic traditions, allowing families to connect with the souls of their loved ones through altars. From vibrant shrines to symbolic dishes, the Day of the Dead celebrates life. Discover more about this festive occasion!

A Restored Mind with Cross and Crown

When you consider the wonder of the human brain, it’s fascinating how it operates like a complex computer, recording not just what we see and hear, but also what we feel. The amygdala plays a crucial role, linking memories with emotions and triggering responses. If you’ve felt overwhelmed by fear or anxiety, know there is hope. By harnessing your conscious mind and visualization techniques, you can reclaim your peace. Discover how to heal and regain control.

Local Farm has a Heart for Cattle

Discover the heartwarming story of Wholesome Family Farm, where Beth and Jeff Kittle prioritize the health of their grass-fed cattle. With a commitment to sustainable practices, they offer delicious, well-marbled beef that customers love. Join them for a farm tour to learn about the journey of your food from pasture to plate and experience the flavor and ethics of locally sourced beef!

Local Farm Grows Fresh Produce and Quality Meats

Discover the rich history of Sandoz Farm, where family traditions date back to the 1850s. Enjoy fresh, local produce from sweet cherries to pastured meats. Join the FREE annual harvest festival for pumpkin picking, a petting zoo, and seasonal treats. Experience the charm of farm life and the joy of nature and community. Visit Sandoz Farm and taste the difference of local food!

Ryan Lewis is Building Community Through Music

Ryan Lewis, a dedicated sixth–12th grade music teacher in Willamina, has transformed the school’s music programs through his innovative approach. He navigated the challenges of remote learning during COVID and fosters a vibrant culture of creativity, inspiring students to explore their artistic potential. His commitment creates meaningful connections and shows how art unites communities, making him invaluable to Willamina Schools.

Battle Ground Equestrian Team Shows Winning Spirit

Discover the inspiring journey of the Battle Ground Equestrian Team, a proud member of WAHSET that promotes horsemanship among high school students. Since the early 2000s, this community has offered young equestrians opportunities to excel while emphasizing sportsmanship. Whether you own a horse or not, there’s a place for you on the team! Celebrate their achievements and learn how to support their mission in the equestrian community!

McMinnville Community Support Takes to the Streets

What comes to mind when you see the color pink? Traditionally linked to femininity, pink has become a strong symbol of Breast Cancer Awareness. In McMinnville, the “Paint Mac Pink” initiative has grown into “Paint Yamhill County Pink,” led by the inspiring nonprofit With Courage. Each October, the Pink Light Campaign honors those impacted by breast cancer while raising crucial funds. Learn how this movement began and how you can get involved to make a difference. Join us in spreading hope and awareness!

Mark Your Calendar for 60th Annual Lake Oswego Tree Lighting

Remember the warmth of community as you gather for the 60th annual Lake Oswego Tree Lighting this Friday, Nov. 29. Relive the charm of a European-style market from 3 to 7 p.m. in Millennium Park Plaza, culminating in the enchanting tree lighting at 5:30 p.m. Delight in the talents of local high school performers, the beloved Dickens Singers, and a special visit from Santa. Savor wine tastings, indulge in food carts, and enjoy timeless holiday melodies—it’s a heartfelt way to usher in the holiday season. Cherish these moments with us!

Professor Brings Passion to Literary Arts

Dr. Henry Hughes, a dedicated professor at Western Oregon University, believes storytelling is transformative. “We need our society to tell, write, sing, and appreciate our stories,” he states. Outside the classroom, Hughes shares experiences, including a recent trip to Antarctica, highlighting that knowledge stems from experience. He compares fishing to the search for understanding, describing it as “a different, alien universe.” In a tech-driven world, Hughes emphasizes the lasting importance of literature and the arts in fostering connection and happiness. Discover more about his inspiring journey!

The Transformative Power of Art in Travel

In Lake Oswego, art is a vital thread that weaves our community together. From the Gallery Without Walls to travel’s transformative power, art enriches our lives. Discover how Viking Cruises and Abercrombie & Kent Philanthropy champion cultural initiatives globally, and learn about the Sandals Foundation’s commitment to arts education in the Caribbean. Explore destinations that celebrate creativity and connect with vibrant artists and communities. Join us in this journey of discovery!

Celebrate the holidays with Locally-Owned Bundt Cake Bakery

Get ready to relive those awesome times spent enjoying the tasty treats from Nothing Bundt Cakes, where every bite hits you with pure joy! Since it opened its doors in 1997, this favorite spot has been the go-to for 12 classic cake flavors that spark happy memories, from the cozy Pumpkin Spice to the zesty gluten-free Lemon Raspberry. With its cute decor and friendly vibes, Nothing Bundt Cakes has been part of so many celebrations. Whether you’re thinking back to fun get-togethers or just craving something sweet, their moist cakes and creamy frosting are sure to put a smile on your face. Swing by and soak up the joy this bakery brings to every occasion!

Setting the Stage More Than Words Can Say

Canby High Theatre returns this fall with “Radium Girls,” the true story of young women fighting for justice against radium poisoning. Under director Sullivan Mackintosh, the talented student designers have created a stunning experience set in the 1920s. With a dedicated cast of nineteen actors in over thirty roles, this story of workers’ rights is powerful and resonant. Don’t miss this performance on November 7, 8, 9, and 14, 15, 16 at the Richard R. Brown Fine Arts Center!

Step Inside the Studios of Local Artists

Have you ever wondered what happens in an artist’s mind while creating? The Clark County Open Studios Tour invites you to visit artists’ studios, engaging directly with the creative process. On Nov. 2 and 3, this self-guided tour features 53 talented artists showcasing various mediums. Enjoy live demonstrations and gain insights beyond traditional gallery experiences. Join us to discover the stories behind the art! For details, visit artstra.org/open-studios.

Unmasking Halloween A Journey into its Ancient Origins

As October approaches, neighborhoods come alive with Halloween spirit—pumpkins, skeletons, and excited children ready for trick-or-treating. But what are the origins of this celebration? Journey back over two thousand years to the Celtic festival of Samhain, where the boundary between the living and the dead blurred. Discover how this eerie tradition evolved through Roman influence and American innovation into the vibrant holiday we know today, including the history behind jack-o’-lanterns and community spirit!