Oakridge has had to reinvent itself in creative ways. It has done so, and now, whether you call this town the “Mountain Biking Capital of the Northwest,” “Hiking Heaven” or the “Land of Endless Views,” there’s tons of fun to be had by anyone.
Author Archive | Vanessa
Acting as Therapy
Linda Burden-Williams played rock and roll music in the 1970s, then through acting found a safe place to express herself in deeper, richer ways than playing music allowed. She’s been an acting and camera coach for three decades now.
Sweet Potato Success in the Willamette Valley
Sweet potatoes are one of the most popular vegetables today and though many Americans enjoy eating sweet potatoes, most don’t attempt to grow them, especially not in the mild, wet wilds of the Willamette Valley. Master gardener Gary Jordan is on a mission to change that.
A Barrage of Blueberries
Blueberries are a tasty and healthy addition to any homestead. But cultivating patience may be the most important aspect of growing them. Blueberries have specific needs and take eight years to become fully mature, but under the right growing conditions the plant can live for up to 50 years.
Timothy Patrick: A Singer for all Ages
By Vanessa on June 29, 2015 in Arts and Entertainment, Boomer and Senior News, Music, People Profiles, Retirement, Seniors
Timothy Patrick, a tall, lean and youthful-looking 62 year-old musician, has found a niche in playing primarily for boomers and seniors in retirement homes and assisted living centers.
Great Green Garbanzos!
You know chickpeas . . . those round, brown, hard dried peas smaller than a marble that make creamy hummus. But do you know fresh chickpeas? Don’t feel bad if the answer is no, because almost no one does.
Winemaking ‘Round the World
An Oregon winemaker with roots in New Zealand grows award-winning sauvignon blanc and pinot noir on two continents.
Add Color & Flavor with Peppers
Peppers of any kind—whether you like the world’s tiniest and hottest or the crunchy, sweet ones—are a great addition to your garden. In the Willamette Valley’s fairly short growing season, however, peppers take some advance planning and care to grow successfully.
A Champion for Her Cause
Becky Sisley, 76, is a yellow streak, dressed head to toe in Duck colors. Throughout her decades at Oregon she’s been a teacher, coach, women’s athletic director and head of Physical Education Undergraduate Studies.
Unsung Splash Fest on the Middle Fork
Upstream Adventures co-owner Quin Slocumb loves showing people the view from a river, and thanks to a lack of guides running through Oakridge, a 6-mile section of the Middle Fork of the Willamette River is an undiscovered gem.