willamette valley life magazine

Spring 2011 • Willamette Valley Life 1

P E O P L E • M U S I C • A R T • D I N I N G • E X P L O R E • W I N E

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Volume 2 Issue 2/Spring 2011 (Display until July 1, 2011)WillametteValleyLife.com

COLORThe Willamette Valley’s Fastest Growing Publication! 23,000 Distributed

Memorial Weekend In Wine Country!

HOME ON THE GrangeB E Y O N D T H E H A L L

The Willamette Music FestDaycation: Aurora

Don’t Let Food Bust Your Budget

2 Willamette Valley Life • Spring 2011

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PUBLISHERS/EDITORSRandy and Dawn Hill

ASSOCIATE EDITORJessica Gardner

ART DIRECTIONHill Design Studios

ASSOCIATE CREATIVE DIRECTORChalene Hill

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS AND PHOTOGRAPHERS

L. Andrew Brown, Crendo Photography, Cindy Dauer, Ken Gardner, Randy Hill, Ryan Reichert,

Meredith Russell

ADVERTISING SALESL. Andrew Brown

Concept Marketing

PHONE503.507.1228

MAILING ADDRESSP.O. Box 17264, Salem, Oregon 97305

EMAIL:[email protected]

Copyright 2011 by Willamette Valley LIfe Magazine

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED Reproduction in whole or part is prohibited.

willamettevalleylife.com

MEET THE PRESS: THIS MONTH’S CONTRIBUTORS

L E T T E R F R O M T H E P U B L I S H E R

Rambling around the Valleyhistory of the Grange organization and how they are reaching out to a world that bears little resemblance to the one in which they originated. There are plenty of opportunities to discover some great local and national music talent this spring. The 41st Willamette Valley Music Festival kicks off Saturday, May 7th on the University of Oregon campus in Eugene. Writer Cindy Dauer gives us a behind the scenes picture of some of the local talent that will be featured at the fest. I love hunting for antiques, and I always have a great time digging for collectibles in the little town of Aurora on the north end of the Willamette Valley. The town has a fascinating history and is a great place to spend a spring day. Learn more about Aurora in the “Daycation” section of this issue. Willamette Valley residents are fortunate to live in wine country

that rivals some of the world’s best. In this issue we celebrate The Memorial Weekend in Wine Country with a supplement that includes a listing of most (if not all) of the wineries in the Willamette Valley as well as a map of how to get to the various wine tasting destinations. Finance wizard Ken Gardner shares his tips on the fine art of not busting your food budget. Dining detective Bon Mangez goes on another culinary adventure–this month to Salem’s Ventis Café. Thanks for picking up the spring edition of Willamette Valley Life. We truly hope you are inspired as much as we are with this wonderful place we live in.

Crendo Photography is a husband and wife team providing portrait, event and business photography to Salem and beyond. Their studio features dramatic windows and is located in suite 305 on the third floor of the historic Reed Opera House downtown.

Cindy Dauer is a freelance writer and photographer living in Oregon. As a journalist, she has covered a wide variety of topics from arts and entertainment to local news. Recently, her work has appeared in several mid-Valley publications, and her online writing has been viewed around the world. A native of the Northwest, Cindy loves outdoor adventures and exploring local culture.

Ken Gardner writes for life, financial liberty and the pursuit of member happiness. He has worked in the financial industry for over 10 years and does not have perfect credit…but he’s getting there.

Ryan Reichert is originally from Northeast Ohio and relocated to the Willamette Valley to further his career in the wine industry. He has received both his Intermediate and Advanced certifications from the Wine & Spirits Education Trust, and is also a certified French wine enthusiast and Spanish Wine Educator. Ryan strives to learn all he can about wine and to share his passion with everyone. Ryan authors a new site focusing on the white wines of the Pacific Northwest. Visit www.nwwhites.com.

Meredith Russell is a licensed clinical social worker specializing in work with young children and families. She is a freelance writer on parenting, family life and health. She transplanted herself from the east coast to Salem fifteen year ago.

Traveling around the

Willamette Valley countryside gives me ample opportunity to discover the people and places that I think would interest other folks here in the Valley–whether you’ve been here for just a short period of time or if you’ve lived here all your life. Take the area’s Grange Halls for instance. These architectural and community time capsules never fail to spark my curiosity. It seems like a majority of the buildings date back to the early part of the last century. What were they used for and what relevance do they have in the community today? I sent freelance writer Meredith Russell to find out a little bit of the


N E W S , E V E N T S A N D H A P P E N I N G S

Honoring Our Rivers: A Student Anthology

For a quarter century, the International Pinot Noir Celebration has united thousands of pinot fans, winemakers,

chefs and food lovers from around the world in the spirit of friendship and festivity. No less than the New York Times described the festival as “one of those rare wine gatherings that works on every level.” The celebration takes place July 29–31 in the heart of Oregon’s wine country on the bucolic campus of Linfield College, in McMinnville, and tickets are available now. McMinnville may be a small town, but its cuisine has inspired even Bon Appétit, which named it one of America’s six “Foodiest Towns” in 2010. Farm-to-fork chefs feature local produce, eggs, fish and meat. Linfield College, the site of the three-day pinot celebration, offers a peaceful respite, with park-like groves of trees, colorful flowers, fountains and an ancient oak grove. For more information visit ipnc.org, downtownmcminnville.com or linfield.edu.

to nature, and ultimately, to one another. To celebrate the 11th year of publication, Powell’s City of Books will

host a special event on May 22nd from 4-5 p.m. in the “Pearl Room” of

their flagship store located on Burnside Street in downtown Portland. Students from across the state will be

honored and will present their work alongside professional authors and artists.

Where: Powell’s City of Books, 1005 W. Burnside, Portland Oregon, 97206.Date and Hours: Sunday, May 22, from 4-5 p.m.

Honoring Our Rivers: A Student Anthology is celebrating the release of

its 11th edition with a student reading and art show at Powell’s City of Books. Over the past eleven years, the Honoring Our Rivers anthology has received thousands of charming, thought-provoking and whimsical poems, essays, photographs and drawings from students (kindergarten to college) across the state that focus on the relationship between people and our watersheds–the waters, weather, land, plants, animals and habitats that connect us

Pinot noir celebration brings wine lovers together

Spooks to Spirits is a new adventure travel guide to haunted places and the places you should haunt. Spotlighting haunts and hauntings of the Yamhill Valley, the book includes an audio travel guide CD, a fold out map of the area with highlighted haunted businesses and locations, as well as both historical and eyewitness accounts of histories and mysteries. The book’s launch date is May 15, and it will be available at hotels, travel agencies, restaurants, wineries and other places of interest as well as online. The author, Tracey Ward, has also produced a half hour television show, “Haunted Yamhill,” that is currently airing on McM Comcast cable channel 11 and Verizon cable channel 29. The show focuses on the town of Lafayette–which was cursed to burn to the ground by a so-called “witch”–and features several recreations of strange happenings. Spooks to Spirits will have several fund raising events this year for YCAP. These events are free, but food donations are gladly accepted. For more information, call 503-435-0509 or go to spookstospirits.com.

Close Encounters

Spooky Spirits

“Thank you to L. Andrew Brown and Willamette Valley Life for the article on Broadway Commons. We appreciate the way WVLife is encouraging positive attitudes toward our city and larger area!”

— Jeff Roth, via email

The 12th Annual UFO Festival in McMinnville, Oregon is set to land on May 13 and 14, 2011. The annual festival, hosted by McMenamins

Hotel Oregon, celebrates the famous 1950 Trent sighting in which two Dayton, Oregon citizens witnessed and photographed a UFO, said to be some of the most credible images of UFOs to date. This year’s festival welcomes several speakers including Robert Salas, who will speak about the 1967 UFO encounters at Malmstrom Air Force Base, and Stan Gordon, who is the authority on the December 1965 Kecksburg UFO Incident as well as one of the world’s top regarded investigators of the pairing of Sasquatch and UFO sig. Passes are $10 per event, and a three event pass is available for $25. Also on tap this year is the annual UFO Costume Parade, Alien Pet Costume Contest and the Alien Costume Ball at Hotel Oregon. For more information on prices and scheduling, visit ufofest.com.

“Spring is nature’s way

of saying, ‘Let’s party!’”

-Robin Williams


26th Annual Tulip Fest S P R I N G 2 0 1 1 C A L E N D A R

April, May, June

There’s nothing like spring in the Willamette Valley, and there’s nothing like the Tulip Fest held at the Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm near Woodburn, Oregon for the mind-blowing color you’ll experience in the festival’s Tulip fields. Each year the fields are rotated so the look is completely original with each new season. A whole series of events are scheduled, including: pony rides, Wooden Shoe Making, steam tractors, wine tasting and more.Date and hours: April through May 1st: Daily 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.Admission: Weekends: $10.00 per carload; $20.00 per bus. Weekdays (M-F): $5.00 per carload; $20.00 per busWebsite: woodenshoe.com/tulip-fest

April9 – Gospel Show with Bill Jolliff & Friends – Cartwright’s Music Event Center, Stayton. Show begins at 7:00 p.m. $10 and reservations highly suggested.

16 – Earth Day – A fun filled earth-wise day with exhibitors, hands-on activities, demonstrations, tree give-away, live music, food and more! Oregon Garden. Free admission. oregongarden.org

23 – Old Circle (Bluegrass) in concert – Cartwright’s Music Event Center, Stayton. Show begins at 7:00 p.m.

23 – Oregon Valley Boys “Grange Hall Tour 2011” – Scotts Mills Grange Hall, Scotts Mills. 7–9 p.m. $5 admission. oregonvalleyboys.com

29-30 – Brewfest – The Oregon Garden’s 7th annual Brewfest. Last year’s attendees enjoyed a multitude of seasonal and flagship beers from over 30 breweries, live music and northwestern cuisine. This year’s event is set to be even bigger with more breweries and music. oregongarden.org

30 – Women in Aviation Day – Evergreen Aviation and Space Museum. 10:30 a.m.–3:00 p.m. $8 event admission into the Aviation Museum. Call 503-434-4180 for more information.

MayKeizer Iris Festival – All May. For a list of events, visit irisfestival.com.

7 – Willamette Valley Music Fest – Performers, ranging from indie rock bands to acoustic soloists, will play the festival’s three stages starting at 10 a.m. and continuing throughout the day. University of Oregon campus. musicfest.uoregon.edu

7 – Oregon Valley Boys “Grange Hall Tour 2011” – Silverton Grange Hall. 7–9 p.m. $5 admission. oregonvalleyboys.com

13-14 – UFO Festival – UFO Costume Parade, Alien Pet Cos-tume Contest and the Alien Costume Ball at Hotel Oregon. For more information on prices and scheduling, visit ufofest.com.

14 – Silverton Wine and Jazz Festival – More Jazz in Two Square Blocks than anywhere on the planet. Noon until midnight. silvertonwineandjazz.com

28-30 – 21st Annual Memorial Weekend in the Wine Country – More than 150 win-eries and tasting rooms will be open across the Willamette Valley. Take this opportunity to visit some of the region’s small, family-owned wineries rarely open to the public, as well as larger wineries and tasting rooms. willamettewines.com

June3-4 – 16th Annual Garden Tour & Plant Sale – Explore eight colorful gardens through-out the Keizer area. With easy parking and accessibility, this self-guided tour allows for a leisurely two-day exploration of an array of garden types. Tickets are available for

purchase in May at the museum and at all Salem and Keizer Roth’s Markets. Proceeds from the garden tour and plant sale benefit educational programs at A.C. Gilbert’s Discovery Vil-lage. A.C. Gilbert’s Discovery Village. 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Tickets: $15; ages 12 and under: $5. acgilbert.org

25-26 – World Beat Festival – A two day program of inter-national music, dance, food, hands-on crafts and folklore. worldbeatfestival.org

23-July 10 – Oregon Bach Festival – Under the artistic leader-ship of Helmuth Rilling, the OBF fills 19 summer days with cho-

ral-orchestral masterworks, guest artists, chamber music, social events and education programs. University of Oregon campus. oregonbachfestival.com

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If the thought of kilts, bagpipes and tartan gets your haggis boiling, then you’re in luck! Scottish history and

culture will jump out of the text books and come alive at the 22nd Annual Oregon Scottish Festival, April 9th at the Linn County Fair and Expo Center (I-5 and Albany). Hundreds of people attended the first event in 1990, and the annual event has continued to grow ever since. Along with the tartan kilts, festive music, food and succulent pastry treats, visitors will experience a taste of Scottish heritage. Activities and attractions will include the Kids Corner with castle and games, Mary and Sandy’s kitchen, Scottish dancers, vendor booths, accessories and décor, Seven Brides wine and brewery products, authentic Scottish gifts, Celtic music and Clan tradition history booths. Even if you’re not of Scottish descent, the festival will serve as a unique and entertaining way to experience and learn about Scotland’s history–vibrantly rich with royalty, wars, foreign occupations and legend. In fact, many of the traditions we take for granted here in the U.S. started hundreds of years ago in the Highlands.

Hoots Mon! The festival is sponsored by The Oregon Scottish Society, an organization that is devoted to celebrating and enjoying rich

Scottish culture and history while promoting fellowship and new friends.Society members hail from locations throughout the Willamette Valley and have numerous events and gatherings throughout the year. Recent

activities have included the Burns dinner on the Willamette River Queen sternwheeler, dessert gatherings, group attendance at the upcoming Newport Celtic Festival, and various Highland games all over Oregon and Washington.

Oregon Scottish Heritage FestivalLinn County Fair and Expo Center Date and hours: April 9, 2011, 9-5 p.m.Admission: General $7; kids under 10 free; seniors and youth $6. Sponsored by the Oregon Scottish Society, KGAL 1580, KSHO 920, KYKN 1430, KHPE 107.9, Comfort Suites and the Albany Visitors Association.Website: oregonscottishsociety.comInfo Karen Grant 541-451-3815 or Rich Mackie 503-364-1863

— L. Andrew Brown

KEIZER IRIS FESTIVAL


E X P L O R I N G T H E W I L L A M E T T E V A L L E Y

became involved with the Silverton Grange because she was drawn to its specific philosophy. “We are a green Grange: sustainability, eating local and a resurgence in community,” says Tennyson. The Grange sponsors an annual “50 Mile Breakfast” where everything served is produced locally. It started as a 100 mile breakfast several years ago and reduced its radius last year.

Grange Halls dot the landscape of rural Willamette Valley communities. Beyond the halls,

the Grange is a historic, progressive, grass roots organization which has evolved in its 150 year history. After the Civil War, The National Grange of the Order of Patrons of Husbandry was established by farmer advocates to assist struggling farmers and to unite the North and South around common agricultural goals. As unions were forming in the industrial fields, the Grange (from a Latin word meaning “grain”) founders recognized that farmers could benefit from a national organization. Along with a political voice, the Grange also offered social and educational opportunities to isolated and fragmented farm communities. From its inception, the Grange allowed women and youth ages 14 and older to join, vote and hold equal position to men. A strictly non-partisan organization, the Grange does have political goals, including: supporting stewardship of America’s natural resources, promotion of world-wide free trade, support for rural education and infrastructure, and competitive and efficient farm system. Despite a drop from a high of one million members to about 200,000 current members, Granges across the country continue to advocate on behalf of the changing farm community. The Grange began in Oregon 137 years ago. With 186 Granges to oversee in Oregon, the State Grange Master is a paid position. Membership in Oregon has dropped from 30,000 members in the early 1990’s to 6,500 members currently. Changes in agriculture, culture and community mobility have had a big impact. State Grange Master Larry Rea describes, “I grew up in a community where everybody knew me and everyone else. My kids didn’t grow up in a community like that. Today, people seem to value their privacy. Families also have more mobility today. It’s just as easy to head to Seattle for a football game as it is to do something locally.” Another hit: changes in the insurance industry. “One of the benefits of belonging was a great health insurance program. They didn’t charge very much so they didn’t have enough money when disaster struck. There’s still an insurance benefit, but not nearly as good as it used to be. You were required to be a member, now you’re not. The incentive to join is reduced,” says Rea. With the stressed economy and the “locavore” movement, Willamette Valley Granges are small but still relevant. Silverton Grange Master Cate Tennyson

Home on the Grange: Beyond the Hall

“I grew up in a community where everybody knew me and everyone else. My kids didn’t grow up in a community like that. Today, people seem to value their privacy. Families also have more mobility today. It’s just as easy to head to Seattle for a football game as it is to do something locally.”

Willamette Valley Western Swing band, The Oregon Valley Boys, perform at the Macleay Grange during their “2011 Grange Hall Tour.”

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More than 150 breakfasts were served. The Grange has recently started a Tuesday farmer’s market and is building a 300 gallon water catchment system. Plans are in the works to provide classes, such as canning, jam making and fermentation. Tennyson believes that the economic crisis has made these “old skills” valuable to people again. Granges have struggled since Tennyson joined in the 70’s when the local Grange was a center for community and social lives. “The Grange used to be the focus of those community social structures. Now, it means nothing to hop in a car and go to a movie in Salem.” But she believes that Granges will experience a revival. “Gas price are going up. Food is going up. People have less income to drive 25 miles.” She has been involved in an effort to revive the North Howell Grange which closed last January. “I feel like the Granges can be the lifeblood of a community. It brings all factions together: farmers, consumers and different schools. I think it’s going to peak again.” Moses Mendzer, President of the Macleay Grange, got involved after his wife was looking for a way to have a political voice. “She found that the Grange had a lobbyist. She went to a meeting or two and said, ‘We need to be a part of this.’ Each Grange has its own target goals. Ours is community and sustainability.” When Mendzer joined, he recognized membership decline due to insurance changes and increases in corporate farming and saw the need for a change.

“Membership was about 8 or 10. It was more traditional. We changed…anybody that is interested is welcome to come in. We made ourselves known in the community with open jam nights and breakfasts.” Membership is now up to about 30. Mendzer reports that the Macleay Grange is starting a ham radio station to allow for emergency response in case of disasters. Macleay is creating classes to teach home gardening and alternative forms of heating. And what about those halls? The Grange Halls become the focal point for these community efforts. “We sell the concept of community. We have an event in the community: pancake breakfast, a town hall with local politicians–anything that gets people inside the building. People will say ‘I didn’t know you had a stage.’ Then they know how the building can be used.” Hall rental for parties and concerts is an important income stream for the Grange. State Master Rea is also optimistic about the Grange’s future. “I think our membership has reached its low point and is now increasing. When the economy is slow, people tend to do things that help them, such as gardens and canning–what rural people traditionally did to stay alive.”

Meredith Russell is a licensed clinical social worker specializing in work with young children and families. She is a freelance writer on parenting, family life and health. She transplanted herself from the east coast to Salem fifteen year ago.

Promotional print for Grange members showing scenes of farming and farm life.


O U T A N D A B O U T

Destination: Aurora

How to get there...

Aurora residents at the Southern Pacifi c Depot crossing in town 1905. Inset: Aurora founder, Wilhelm Keil.

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Within a stone’s throw of I-5, near the town of Canby, Oregon, lies what is widely known as

“Oregon’s Antique Capital”–Aurora. The town is chock full of antiques stores…enough to keep even the most ardent antique hunter happy for a day.

History The town has a fascinating history. In 1853, Wilhelm Keil sent a group of scouts from his religious commune in Bethel, Missouri to the Pacifi c Northwest to fi nd a suitable location to relocate his followers. In 1854, six of the scouts returned with word of a “second Eden” they had found in Willapa Valley, Washington territory. In 1855, Keil and 175 of his followers left Bethel, arriving in Portland after a journey of about four and a half months. Although Keil had requested that his scouts fi nd an isolated place, Willapa was just a little too isolated…and waterlogged most of the year. Keil wrote in a report, “Our clothes and shoes actually rot on our bodies because of the mud and wetness. We are imprisoned worse than prisoners in jail.” With that, Keil purchased about 500 acres of land in 1856. Situated just south of the Willamette River in Oregon’s Marion County, he named the new community “Aurora” after his daughter. A sawmill on the site provided the residents with the ability to generate revenue for the communal treasury while also providing lumber for the town’s buildings. The community embraced the Golden Rule and the philosophy, “From each according to his ability, to each according to his need.” The community was held in high regard throughout the area and was known for their brass bands that performed original music. Wilhelm Keil died in 1877. Upon his death, Aurora’s leaders dissolved the community and redistributed the communal holdings among its members.

Antiques As I mentioned earlier, the town is

practically one big antique store with a few espresso shops and restaurants included in the mix. Some of the fi rst shops here opened in the 1950’s, and all of the shops include an assortment of antique furnishings, collectibles, art and handcrafted items. You can get a full list of antiques stores on the town’s website, auroracolony.com.

WineriesSt. Josef’s Winery, in nearby Canby,

produces award winning Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris wines. This European “old

world” style winery is also a beautiful spot to visit and taste wines during your Daycation to Aurora. Visit stjosefswinery.com for more info.

Dining There are a number of places to dine

right in the town of Aurora as well as other great places just a few minutes away. The Colony Pub is known for its burgers; there’s Scattercreek Junction, For You Only Deli and White Rabbit Bakery for lighter fare; and if you need some comfort food, the Top O Hill Restaurant between Aurora and Canby fi ts the bill.

Museum Make a point of visiting the Old

Aurora Colony Museum while you’re in Aurora. The complex includes the Ox Barn, Steinbach Cabin, Kraus House, Will Family Summer Kitchen and Tie Shed. The museum offers a varitey of exhibitions thoughout the year.

Special Events Antique Spinning Wheel Showcase: Second weekend of MarchHandspinners Fiber Faire: Third Saturday of April

Antique Radio Show & Sale: Second Saturday in MayStrawberry Social: Fourth Sunday of JuneAurora Colony Days Outdoor Antiques Faire, Music, Art Show: Second Saturday of AugustAntique Radio Show & Sale: Second Saturday in OctoberQuilt Show: Third week of OctoberAurora Celebrates the Holidays; Merchant Open Houses: Fourth weekend of NovemberCandlelight Tour: First Saturday in December

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Explore the Willamette Valley area wineries and taste

what the world is talking about!

Explore the Willamette Valley area wineries and taste

what the world is talking about!


2011 Memorial Day Weekend in Wine Country

Don’t try to do too much With all the special events, exclusive tastings and small producers

who are only open twice a year it is tempting to try

and overload. However, it’s best to plan for 3-4 visits per day at the most. Keep in mind that some wineries run events Friday through Sunday and also offer pre-holiday weekend events as well. Do your homework Every winery has a different event and different wines for the holiday weekend. Research to find those that offer something you really like. Also, remember that the tasting fee or admission is often more expensive for events, but many producers still offer to waive or apply fees when you purchase wine.

Have a back-up planThe fact of the matter is that some wineries just aren’t set up to

accommodate huge crowds. If your planned

destination is packed, have another location in mind that you’d like to visit.

This way you won’t be disappointed settling for something that is convenient but that you’re not interested in. That said, recommendations from places you love are often the best referrals you can get, so be sure to ask. Overall, enjoy your adventure, drink responsibly and don’t take it too seriously. Cheers!

Ryan Reichert is originally from Northeast Ohio and relocated to the Willamette Valley to further his career in the wine industry. He has received both his Intermediate and Advanced certifications from the Wine & Spirits Education Trust, and is also a certified French wine enthusiast and Spanish Wine Educator. Ryan strives to learn all he can about wine and to share his passion with everyone. Ryan authors a new site focusing on the white wines of the Pacific Northwest. Visit nwwhites.com.

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In late May there is a palpable buzz in the Willamette Valley. Wineries large and small open their doors to the public for one of the major wine-tasting holidays of the

year. Many producers will also be releasing their newest wines, which means some of the first 2009 Pinot Noirs as well as many brand new white wines from the 2010 vintage. Whether this is your first Memorial Day weekend or you’ve been braving the crowds for years, here are some helpful tips to keep in mind while tasting.

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Willamette Valley Winery ListingAdelsheim Vineyard Newberg - 503.538.3652Adelsheim Vineyard’s Tasting Room Newberg - 503.538.3652 x122Airlie Winery Monmouth - 503.838.6013Alexeli Vineyards Molalla - 503.829.6677Amity Vineyards Amity - 503.835.2362Anam Cara Cellars Dundee - 503.537.9150Anderson Family Vineyard Newberg - 503.554.5541Andrew Rich Wines Carlton - 503.284.6622Ankeny Vineyard Winery Salem - 503.378.1498Anne Amie Vineyards Carlton - 503.864.2991Anthony Dell CellarsMcMinnville - 503.910.8874Antica Terra Amity - 503.244.1748ArborBrook Vineyards Newberg - 503.538.0959Arcane Cellars Salem - 503.868.7076Archery Summit Dayton - 503.864.4300Argyle Winery Dundee - 503.538.8520.August Cellars Newberg - 503.554.6766

Beaux Freres Newberg - 503.537.1137BeckenRidge Vineyard Dallas - 503.831.3280Bella Vida Vineyard Dundee - 503.538.9821Belle Pente Vineyards & Winery Carlton - 503.852.9500Belle Provenance Vineyard Salem - 503.991.1119Belle Vallee Cellars Corvallis - 541.757.9463Benton County Wineries Philomath Benton-Lane Winery Monroe - 541.847.5792.Bergstrom Wines LLC Newberg - 503.554.0468BernardMachado McMinnville - 503.472.3294Bethel Heights Vineyard Salem - 503.581.2262Bishop Creek Cellars Newberg - 503.550.7700Black Cap of Oregon McMinnville - 971.237.0626Brick House Wine Company Newberg - 503.538.5136Brigadoon VineyardsJunction City - 541.998.8708Broadley Vineyards Monroe - 541.847.5934Brooks Wines Amity - 503.435.1278Bryce Vineyard Carlton - 503.554.9816Bryn Mawr Vineyards Salem - 503.581.4286Cana’s Feast Winery Carlton - 503.852.0002

Chapelton Hills Vineyard Dallas - 503.623.3364Chateau Bianca Winery Dallas - 503.623.6181Chateau Lorane Lorane - 541.942.8028Chehalem Winery Newberg - 503.538.4700Cherry Hill Winery Rickreall - 503.623.7867Cliff Creek Vineyards Carlton - 503.852.0089Coelho Winery of Amity Amity - 503.835.9305Coeur De Terre Vineyard McMinnville - 503.472.3976Coleman Vineyard McMinnville - 503.843.2707Cubanisimo Vineyards Salem - 503.588.1763Daedalus Cellars Dundee - 503.537.0727De Ponte Cellars Dayton - 503.864.3698Deux Chiennes Vineyard Amity - 503.835.7421Dobbes Family Estate Dundee - 503.538.1141Dobbes Family Estate Dundee - 503.538.1141Domaine Coteau Carlton - 503.697.7319Domaine Drouhin Dayton - 503.864.2700

Domaine Serene Dayton - 503.864.4600Duck Pond Cellars Dundee - 503.538.3199Dundee Hills Wine Growers Dundee - 503.864.2700Durant Vineyards Dayton - 503.864.3785EIEIO CompanyNewberg - 503.852.6733Elton Vineyards Salem - 503.868.7376Emerson Vineyards Monmouth - 503.838.0944Engelhardt Farm Winery Gervais - 503.792.4405Eola Hills Wine Cellars Rickreall - 503.623.2405Erath Vineyards Dundee Hills - 503.538.3318Esterling Vineyards Corvallis - 541.745.4411Eugene Wine Cellars Eugene - 541.342.2600Evesham Wood Vineyard Salem - 503.371.8478Eyrie Vineyards McMinnville - 888.440.4970Ferraro Cellar Newberg - 503.645.0627Firesteed Cellars Rickreall - 503.623.8683.Greyhorse Vineyard McMinnville - 503.472.0528

Carabella Vineyard Wilsonville - 503.699.1829Cardwell Hill Cellars Philomath - 541.929.9463Carlton CellarsRd.s End Carlton - 503.474.8986Carlton Hill VineyardMcMinnville - 503.852.7060Carlton Winemakers Studio Carlton - 503.852.6100Champoeg Wine Cellars Aurora - 503.678.2144

Hamacher Wines Carlton - 503.803.6073Hanson Vineyards Woodburn - 503.634.2348Harris Bridge Vineyard Philomath - 541.929.3053Hauer of the Dauen Dayton - 503.868.7359Helmick Hill Vineyard Monmouth - 503.838.5409Honeywood Winery Salem - 503.362.4111Houston Vineyards Eugene - 541.747.4681J.K. Carriere Newberg - 503.554.0721King Estate Winery Eugene - 541-685-5189Kristin Hill Winery Amity - 503.835.0850LaVelle Vineyards Elmira - 541.935.9406Lachini Vineyards Newberg - 503.864.4553Lange Estate Winery & Vineyard Dundee - 503.538.6476Laura Volkman Vineyards Newberg - 503.806.4047Lawton Winery Newberg - 503.538.6509Lazy River Vineyard Yamhill - 206.329.1129Le Cadeau Vineyard Newberg - 612.799.8969

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Left Coast Cellars Rickreall - 888.831.4916Lemelson Vineyards Carlton - 503.852.6619Lumos Wine Company Philomath - 541.929.3519Marganza Rickreall - 503.628.5458Marks Ridge Winery Sweet Home - 541.367.3292Maysara Winery & Momtazi Vineyards McMinnville - 503.843.1234Medici Vineyards Newberg - 503.538.9668Methven Family Vineyards Dayton - 503.868.7259Mia Sonatina Cellars Amity - 503.449.0834Monks Gate Vineyard Carlton - 503.852.6521Mystic Wines Salem - 503.581.2769Naked Grape Winery Sherwood - 503.626.9811Namaste Vineyards Dallas - 503.623.4150Natalies Estate Winery Newberg - 503.554.9350Orchard Heights Winery Salem - 503.391.7308Panther Creek Cellars McMinnville - 503.472.8080Paradis Family Vineyard Silverton - 503.873.8475Patricia Green Cellars Autumn Wind Vineyard Newberg - 503.554.0821Penner-Ash Wine Cellars Newberg - 503.554.5545Pfeiffer Winery Junction City - 541.998.2828

Pheasant Court Winery Philomath - 541.929.7715Piluso Vineyards Aumsville - 503.749.4125R. Stuart & Co. McMinnville - 503.472.6990Racine Wine Company and Roots Vineyard Yamhill - 503.662.4652Redhawk Winery Salem - 503.362.1596Redman Vineyard Winery Newberg - 503.554.1290Resonance Vineyard Carlton - 503.852.6373Rex Hill Vineyards Newberg - 503.538.0666Ribbon Ridge Vineyard Carlton - 503.502.5255Rivenwood Vineyard Carlton Saginaw Vineyard Cottage Grove - 541.942.1364Sass Winery/Wild Winds Winery Salem - 503.391.9991Scott Paul Wines Carlton - 503.852.7300Secret House Winery Veneta - 541.935.3774Seven of Hearts Carlton - 971.241.6548Shadow Mountain Vineyards Junction City - 541.998.6634Silvan Ridge/Hinman Vineyards Eugene - 541.345.1945Silver Falls Vineyards Sublimity - 503.769.5056Sokol Blosser Winery Dayton - 503.864.2282Solena Cellars McMinnville - 503.852.0082

Soter Vineyards Carlton - 503.662.5600Spindrift Cellars Philomath - 541.929.6555Springhill Cellars Winery Albany - 541.928.1009St. Innocent Ltd Salem - 503.378.1526St. Josef’s Winery Canby - 503.651.3190Stag Hollow Wines Yamhill - 503.662.5609Stangeland Winery Salem - 503.581.0355Stoller Vineyards Dayton - 503.864.3404Stone Wolf Vineyards & Mystic Mountain Vineyards McMinnville - 503.434.9025Sweet Cheeks Winery Eugene - 541.349.9463Territorial Vineyards & Wine Co. Eugene - 541.684.9463The East Valley Winery Tour The Four GracesDundee The Wine Vault / Pheasant Court Winery Philomath - 541.929.8496Three Angels Vineyard Amity - 503.296.7859Torii Mor Dundee - 503.538.2279Trisaetum Vineyard Newberg - 503.538.9898Twelve Wine Carlton - 503.358.6707Tyee Wine Cellars Corvallis - 541.753.8754Tyrus Evan Carlton - 503.852.7070

Van Duzer Vineyards Dallas - 800.884.1927Vercingetorix Wines Newberg - 503.538.9895Vidon Vineyard McMinnville - 503.538.4092Vista Hills Vineyard Dayton - 503.864.3200Vitis Ridge Silverton - 503.873.9800Walnut City Wine Works McMinnville - 503.472.3215Westrey Wine Company McMinnville - 503.434.6357

Whistling Ridge Vineyards Newberg - 503.538.6641White Rose Wines Dayton - 949.275.8021WildAire Cellars Dallas - 503.851.3689Willamette Valley Vineyards Turner - 503.588.9463Wine Country Farm B&B and Cellars Dayton - 503.864.3446Wine Works Oregon McMinnville - 503.472.3215.Winter’s Hill Vineyard Dayton - 503.864.4538

Witness Tree Vineyard Salem - 503.585.7874Yamhill Valley Vineyards McMinnville - 503.843.3100Yamhill Vineyards Yamhill - 503.662.3840Youngberg Hill Vineyards McMinnville - 503.472.2727ZIVO Wines McMinnville - 503.705.9398Zerba Cellars Tasting Room Dundee


M U S I C A N D A R T

The bottom of the valley will host a top-of-the-line event when the Willamette Valley Music Fest

comes to Eugene and the University of Oregon campus on Saturday May 7th. In its 41st year, the free, student-organized event will once again feature art, food and music, including some of the hottest acts from around Oregon and across the country. The performers–ranging from indie rock bands to acoustic soloists–will play the festival’s three stages starting at 10 a.m. and continuing throughout the day. At the festival, along with sampling a wide variety of music, you can browse through a village of vendors where artists and crafters will hawk their wares, non-profit organizations will dole out information and foodies will serve up plates of regional cuisine. As an added bonus, for that day only, free admission will be granted to all the museums on the University of Oregon campus including the Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art and the Museum of Natural and Cultural History. Headlining the festival this year will be Yeasayer, a Brooklyn-based indie band with hits that include “Ambling Alp” and “Madder Red.” Also scheduled to perform is DJ A-Trak, a Montreal native known for remixing pop tracks and spinning a cappella into hip hop. In addition to national acts, the musical showcase will feature some local talent. One local band that is returning to the festival for its second year is Rare Monk. Rare Monk got its start in 2008 when a group of college buddies decided to get together and jam. Since then, the band has gained a loyal following and worked to create an original sound. The five musicians that compose Rare Monk, all University of Oregon alumni, throw out a lot of modifiers when trying to describe their sound–eclectic, experimental, avant-garde. They laugh at some of the tags they’ve received like “sexy dance rock.” “It sounds cool,” said Dorian Aites, the band’s lead singer. “I don’t know what it is, but it’s cool.” They finally settled on experimental, tech, indie rock. Last spring, Rare Monk released Falconer’s Folly, a five song EP that featured hard hitting tracks like “Megiddo’s Fire” and the mellower “My Little Secret.” Since then, the guys have moved up to Portland and continued to hone their sound. “It became a lot more serious as soon as we got up here,” Aites said. “It transferred from ‘we’re in college and we’re a band’ to ‘we’re up here because we are a band’.” Rare Monk is constantly writing new songs with hopes of recording an album.

They are also playing shows in the Portland area and recently toured the West Coast. Bringing a completely different sound to the festival will be Eugene-based Mood Area 52. Combining the essence of tango and lounge music, Mood Area 52 is not an average rock band. At the festival, the group will perform as a quartet–with cello, accordion, guitar and bass–though the group has been known to play with an array of local musicians in different arrangements. Band leader Michael Roderick said Mood Area 52 was formed in 1998 and inspired by the neo-tango movement of the 20th century. Roderick was first exposed to that type of music, popular in Argentina, while he was a student at the University of Oregon. A friend gave him some cassette tapes

that featured the music of Astor Piazzolla. The music immediately made sense to Roderick. “It’s kind of the sound of what goes on in my brain,” Roderick said. A self-taught musician, Roderick soon learned to play the accordion and began

making music with his friends. Since then, he has become somewhat of an accordion connoisseur with at least a dozen in his collection. “I like old, weird things,” he said, “things that make weird sounds.” Roderick, who has attended the Willamette Valley Music Fest since it was called the Willamette Valley Folk Festival (the name changed in 2010), said he enjoys the festival because it brings the music of the world to Eugene. Yet another slice of the music spectrum will be represented at the festival by singer, songwriter and storyteller Eric Tweed. Based in Portland, Tweed is known for playing interactive sets and using custom-made acoustic guitars. These guitars–which he designed with his brother–were born out of necessity. After hunching

41st Willamette Valley Music Fest

Headlining the festival this year will be Yeasayer, a Brooklyn-based indie band with hits that include “Ambling Alp” and “Madder Red.” Also scheduled to perform is DJ A-Trak, a Montreal native known for remixing pop tracks and spinning a cappella into hip hop.

Rare Monk


up over an acoustic guitar for hours at a time, Tweed would get cramped and achy. “They are not the most ergonomic things in the world,” Tweed said of standard acoustic guitars. The Tweed (patented) design creates the classic acoustic sound, but is more comfortable to play, he explains. Because he plays so many different styles of guitar, from slide to classical finger picking, Tweed will often change his guitar several times during a set. He preps his guitars ahead of the show so while playing he can interact more with the audience instead of constantly tuning his guitar. Many of the songs Tweed writes have autobiographical elements. They tell stories of his life and that of those close to him. For other songs, he is inspired by language and the poetic sound of words. Currently, Tweed is recording an album that will feature thirteen songs, including ten originals. All of these musical acts and more will play the Willamette Valley Music Fest–an event that has become a staple of the Eugene scene. With the variety of performances slated for the lineup, there is

Mood Area 52

a little something for everyone. You never know, you may also find something new.

Cindy Dauer is a freelance writer and photographer living in Oregon. As a journalist, she has covered a wide variety of topics from arts and entertainment to local news. Recently, her work has appeared in several mid-Valley publications, and her online writing has been viewed around the world. A native of the Northwest, Cindy loves outdoor adventures and exploring local culture.


F I N A N C E

Don’t Let Food Bust Your Budget

If you’re like me, you’ve probably noticed food is becoming more and more expensive. According to the

Labor Department, food prices rose just under 4% in February of this year alone. While other basic goods like gas have seen increases as well, there’s not much you can do to combat it unless you’re willing and able to buy a new vehicle. However, we can all become smarter when it comes to food purchases. Check out these ideas to help.

E – I – E – I – O Farmer’s markets are a great way to buy excellent quality food often at a much better price than the bigger grocery stores. Not only are you saving money but you’re also contributing directly to the local economy. Check out oregonfarmersmarkets.org for a directory of markets near you.

Coupons, Coupons, Coupons Find them and use them. Coupons are a great way to save money and require little effort. From newspapers to websites like coupons.com, there are a plethora of coupon resources out there. Taking the extra time to clip or print them will go a long way. I suggest making an envelope to put coupons in and putting it on or near your fridge.

He’s making a list, he’s checking it twice… It’s an oft-repeated suggestion but making a list before shopping is one of the best things you can do to buy what you really need and leave the extras behind. My wife and I create our weekly meal plan before we even start our list. This way we

know what to shop for and avoid impulse items. For all you tech minded folks, check out groceryiq.com for a smartphone app that can help in managing grocery lists.

Boring name, serious savings While Costco is not for everybody, if you have a large family or can team up with several people, there is some serious savings to be had there. Be sure to plan before you go, especially when buying bulk items. Check out costco.com to find the location nearest you.

To the left, to the right Lastly, you want to stretch your groceries as much as possible. Ideas such as freezing leftovers, cutting out fast food, taking weekly inventory of the foods you already have to create your meal plan and sticking to a budget will certainly help to make the money you do spend go the distance. Check out http://extension.oregonstate.edu/fcd/nutrition/ewfl/module_03/ for even more dollar stretching ideas. This list of ideas, while not exhaustive, will hopefully get you and your family on the way to cutting down on those rising food bills. Remember, a few dollars saved here and there really does add up and can be used on other important items. If you’ve run across or developed some good tips of your own, please drop us a line, we’d love to hear from you. Email us at [email protected].

Ken Gardner writes for life, financial liberty and the pursuit of member happiness. He has worked in the financial industry for over 10 years and does not have perfect credit…but he’s getting there.


Venti’s Cafe & Basement Bar325 Court St NE, Salem, OR 97301

It is time again for another delicious episode, so hello and welcome! This round we make our way back into

downtown Salem where for many years the options for quality dining were few and far between. What of the gems? What of the hidden delights? For some of you, Venti’s Cafe is of known quality. But for those of you who haven’t had the chance to partake, read on for the details.

On to the review! Venti’s Café is located on Court Street in the heart of Salem and provides seating both upstairs in the main café and in the bar below. While the view is of the street (or the brick if you are below), Venti’s is decorated with local art and is appropriately lit–bright and cheery upstairs while calm and colorful down. Venti’s is open Monday through Thursday 11a.m. to 11p.m., Friday and Saturday 11 to 1 a.m. and Sunday 2 to 10 p.m. (with the 21+ bar opening with slightly later hours). When dining with young ones, upstairs is really the only option. But when heading out with friends, even those who may not partake of the alcoholic options Venti’s offers, the downstairs environs are the place to be.

Appetizers range from $3-7.50. I commonly order the generously portioned Sweet Potato Fries ($4.75) or the “enough for a meal” Mezza Plate ($7.50). Also on the menu are bowls and wraps ($7-9 depending on size), falafel ($6-9.75), salads ($5.50-7) or the fantastic Moroccan Chicken or Beef in a pita or bowl ($7.50-9.75). Venti’s entrees are served with appropriately paired sides, although they do have an extensive list of add-ons and sides by which you can customize your dish in a myriad of ways. Ah, but the real joy to be found here is the tap and bottle list. The owners of Venti’s Café have made it a point to keep their list fresh and seasonal while still providing favorites. Drinks can be ordered from either downstairs or upstairs, and there is a list of available taps for each level. If you don’t like beer, then wine, cocktails, sodas, smoothies and more are available to quench your thirst. Remember to ask your server for a sample of something you find appealing. They have knowledge to share and are happy to share it. Be sure to stop in for their Happy Hour pricing: a steal in any realm.

I’ve almost always had a good experience with the wait staff. They are friendly, interesting and always willing to engage the customer. Although, you should be warned that on busy nights the kitchen will get backed up quickly, so get your orders (and yourself) in early.


Cliff HangerPhoto by Michelle Andrews

V A L L E Y P H O T O S

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The “Cliff Hanger” ride at the Oregon State Fair


2615 Portland Road NE, Salem, OR • 503-588-6303

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