Cruisin’ with the Classics

May 10th, 2012 by Angie Marsh

Get in gear for five different car shows in Washington County–all of which are in June, July and August, each one customized.

All Ford Car Show & Swap Meet

Enjoy the 30th annual show that focuses on Ford models (and is sponsored by the Mustang Club)–Saturday, June 2nd at the Washington County Fair Complex in Hillsboro. The day kicks off with a Shriners pancake breakfast from 8 to 11 a.m., followed by the car show with more than 80 awards and raffles, as well as car-related items for sale at the swap meet. The fun continues until 4 p.m., and cost for general admission is $5 per person. Car show entrants must pre-register; cost of showing a car is $15.

Cruisin’ Sherwood

The streets of Old Town Sherwood will be filled with hundreds of hot rods, classics, motorcycles, collector cars and customs, as well as military vehicles on display for the 22nd Annual Cruisin’ Sherwood on Saturday, June 9th. This free event also includes: a kids zone, auto vendors, arts and crafts, food booths, live entertainment and a beer garden. In fact, the entertainment includes an Elvis impersonator.  Follow Cruisin’ Sherwood on Facebook for the latest updates.

The 2012 Concours d'Elegance celebrates Mercedes July 15.

Concours d’Elegance

Join in this 40-year tradition in Forest Grove–the Councours d’Elegance theme for 2012 is “Celebrating Mercedes-Benz.” This show on Sunday, July 15th features more than 300 classic cars, as well as musical stage entertainment and food, all on the campus of Pacific University. Advance tickets are available for $17 per adult; $15 for seniors; $5 for ages 13-18; ages 12 and under are free. Gates open at 8:30 a.m. and judging, entertainment, an auto emporium, awards and more continues until 4:30 p.m.

Classic at T-Hills

To see hot rods, Corvettes, cobras, motorcycles, trucks, imports and customs, join in the 8th annual Classic at T-Hills Car Show Saturday, July 28th as part of the “Party in the Park” in Beaverton. Prizes will be awarded in more than 20 categories. Participants can also enjoy live music, food booths and raffles–as well as all the Party fun: an international celebration, family triathlon, kids activities, live music and performances as well as various food and drink for purchase. A participant fee is required for showing a car as well as for participating in the triathlon, but viewing of cars and participating in other activities is free.

Wapato Showdown

The Wapato Showdown 2012 marks the 16th annual party for car enthusiasts from all over, who will get together Saturday, Aug. 18 in Gaston. The day starts with a pancake breakfast, followed by food booths and a beer/wine garden. Sponsored by the Gaston Lodge, this event features “tricked-out” vehicles, classic cars, trucks and motorcycles–many of which will receive rewards. The Gaston parade is typically the night prior to this event at 6:30.


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Raise Your Glass to Oregon Wine Month

May 4th, 2012 by Sylke Neal-Finnegan

Oregon Governor, John Kitzhaber, recently declared May 2012 Oregon Wine Month, in celebration of the state’s ever-growing wine industry.  With 420 wineries and 850 vineyards, wine is part of Oregon’s identity, and is a delicious accompaniment to a Washington County getaway. Celebrate Oregon Wine Month this May by visiting the nearly 30 wineries in Oregon’s Washington County and taste a flight of locally crafted wine, from Pinot Noir to Pinot Gris, and a number of surprising varietals in between. Or celebrate at one of these fun wine events throughout the May (Mother’s Day weekend events are listed here):

Oregon Wine Month winds down during the annual Memorial Day Weekend in Wine Country (countywide, hours and prices vary per winery).  Various wineries throughout Oregon’s Washington County (as well as around the state) are open their doors to the public for a festive open house featuring nibbles, entertainment and tastes of new wine releases.

For more information about Memorial Day Weekend in Wine Country and a listing of participating wineries, visit these industry partners:

Need more inspiration to get into the wine-tasting mood? Check out this video, taken at Ponzi Vineyards, or this video, taken at SakeOne.

FUN FACT:  Did you know that Oregon is the  4th largest wine-producing state in the U.S. (behind Washington, New York and California, the largest producer in the U.S.) ?


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Making Mother’s Day 2012 Memorable (NEW WINE EVENTS ADDED!)

May 3rd, 2012 by Angie Marsh

Mother’s Day weekend is approaching—but don’t let the mention of May 12 and 13 turn to panic. Special events and gift-buying opportunities to mark the occasion are happening locally, and any one of these is sure to impress. Take it from me, a mom who is dropping hints about this holiday, your weekend will be happier with a little planning ahead.

Mother’s Day Wine Events

The following wineries are offering special Mother’s Day events and tastings:

Enjoy a Mother’s Day Brunch at Garden Vineyards in Hillsboro on May 13. Beverages include wine, sangria, bellinis and mimosas, all of which will be for sale. The brunch buffet will feature goods that are baked, grilled, cured and roasted–and much of the food is grown on the premises. This buffet is $30 per person.

Taste fine chocolates and wines at three Washington County wineries during Mother’s Day weekend:

  • Artisan Fine Chocolates Tasting at Alloro Vineyard, May 12-13 ($15 per person)
  • Mother’s Day Weekend Red Wine and Chocolate Tasting at Kramer Vineyards, May 12-13 ($10)

Mother’s Day Special Events

Tea is offered at two locations in the county during Mother's Day weekend 2012. Photo by Ann Toffler, flickr.

Beaverton Civic Theatre’s final performance of “The Miracle Worker” is on Mother’s Day, Sunday, May 13, at 2 p.m. This moving play brings to life the story of Helen Keller.

A special prime rib Mother’s Day Champagne Brunch is May 13 at Holiday Inn Portland South – Wilsonville. Choose from a carving station, custom omeletes, gourmet buffet items such as smoked bacon, dessert station and beverages. Brunch runs 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.; reservations are encouraged.

Lavender Tea House in Sherwood is presenting a “Celebration of Mothers” tea on Saturday, May 12, featuring scones, tea sandwiches, fruit, teas and sparkling cider. Seatings are at 10 a.m., 12:30 p.m., and 3 p.m.; call for reservations, $35 per person.

Jenkins Estate in Beaverton presents its Barefoot Quilt Festival on both Saturday and Sunday, May 12 & 13. Enjoy quilting displays and demonstrations, as well as quilted items for sale at this free event.
- On Saturday, May 12, this event features “Tea to Remember” at 12:30 p.m., paid event; reservations required.
- On Sunday, May 13, a dessert cafe will be available at the event from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.; no reservation required.

Cooper Mountain Nature Park in Beaverton welcomes a naturalist to lead a hike, “Mother’s Day Birds and Blooms” on May 13 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Learn more about wildflowers and songbirds while enjoying the Tualatin River. Cost is $10.

Mother’s Day Gift-Buying Opportunities

So many local farmers’ markets are open Saturday, May 12th, that you’ll have fresh choices ranging from hanging flower baskets at Beaverton Farmers Market to seasonal bouquets and herb pots at Sherwood, Hillsboro or Cedar Mill Saturday Market. The Tigard Farmers’ Market kicks off the very day of–Sunday, May 13–so stop by between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. for gifts ranging from plants to bakery goods.

The Quilt Festival at Jenkins Estate on Saturday, May 12 and Sunday, May 13, also incorporates both an artisan craft fair and a plant sale from 11 a.m.-4 p.m.


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Reptiles, Science and History

April 30th, 2012 by Angie Marsh

Events and attractions here in Washington County often have unique features. Nowadays we’re impressed by what has been unearthed here; from mastodon bones to fossils–which visitors have the opportunity to see.

Reptiles

OMSI Science Pub Hillsboro: “How Geckos Stick & Why We Care”

On Monday, April 30, Lewis & Clark College Chair of Biology Dr. Kellar Autumn speaks about the study of geckos’ feet and how this biomimicry is used to create robots that can run up walls and the like. This OMSI Science Pub event, held at the Venetian Theatre in Hillsboro, looks to address how the study of mechanisms in animals has led to biologically inspired materials and machines. Admission is $5 at the door; event is at 7 p.m. More about this Science Pub session.

Venomous Reptile Museum Open in Tigard

The White-Lipped Pitviper can be seen up close at the Venomous Reptile Museum.

The retail store House of Reptiles expanded earlier this year to open a “Venomous Reptile Museum” within its store, featuring 20 to 30 species on display. Take a close look at a 14-foot King Cobra, the Mexican Bearded Lizard, the White-Lipped Pitviper, and the Banded Rock Rattlesnake, among others. The store itself specializes in reptiles, amphibians and quality products for their care. The museum is $3 for adult admission; ages 13 and under are free. More about Venomous Reptile Museum.

Science & Historical Attractions to Check Out

Rice Northwest Museum of Rocks and Minerals

The Rice Northwest Museum of Rocks and Minerals in Hillsboro boasts one of the largest collections in the Pacific Northwest of rocks, minerals, meteorites, petrified wood, gemstones and crystals from around the world–appealing to all ages. In addition, many spectacular fossils, meteorites, petrified woods and fluorescents from the Northwest are on display. The collection is housed in a unique 1953 ranch-style house that is now listed on the National Registry of Historic Places.

Tualatin Heritage Center & Tualatin Public Library

If you’ve had a hankering to view a mastodon tusk and molars, visit the Tualatin Heritage Center maintained by the Tualatin Historical Society. Take in the exhibit of Native American items as well as glacial erratic mementos from the Missoula floods. Likewise, 14,000-year-old mastodon skeleton bones are on display at the Tualatin Library after being discovered nearby.


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Renaissance and Artisan Pursuits

April 27th, 2012 by Angie Marsh

Here ye, here ye: there is lore in this county that nary a person should miss.

Translation: the beginning of May marks several events in Washington County for renaissance and artisan pursuits. So enjoy everything from juggling to jewelry–this is the time to take it all in.

Step back in time for the Faire in the Grove May 5-6.

Faire in the Grove
Saturday, May 5 & Sunday, May 6, 2012
McMenamins Grand Lodge – Forest Grove

Experience the Middle Ages and the Renaissance at this annual free event, put on by Pacific University’s History Department. The Grand Lodge front lawn is transformed into “Fairegrove,” a medieval village containing medieval actors, armored fighters, musicians, singers and dancers, and performances and demonstrations including: combat, dance, blacksmithing, archery, weaving, storytelling, juggling, cooking, book binding and strolling music. Participatory activities include: lawn games, Norse hat making, wax seal making, beer drinking and more. Storytellers will have featured performances on a Children’s Stage.Items for sale include: hooded cloaks, jewelry and costumes, and food will be available as well. Event details.

Oregon Renaissance Band Concert
Friday, May 11
Walters Cultural Arts Center – Hillsboro

Enjoy the concert “All Creatures Now are Merry Minded” by the Oregon Renaissance Band–which features animal-themed music. Showtime is 7:30 p.m. and advance tickets are $15; day-of tickets are $17. Event details.

Artisan Craft Fair
Saturday, May 12 & Sunday, May 13
Jenkins Estate – Beaverton

Meet local artisans and find unique keepsakes and gifts at this special free event. Items for sale range from handcrafted garden art to jewelry. This fair runs from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., as does a native plant sale and Barefoot Quilt Festival on the grounds of the Jenkins Estate. Event details.


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Running Events Take Off: June – July

April 20th, 2012 by Angie Marsh

Running is rampant in Washington County; in these two upcoming months alone are enough races of varying lengths and terrain that runners (and walkers!) can choose which fit their style. I know several people who are signed up for the Foam Fest–just for the soapy fun of it. Here’s a rundown of the second wave of upcoming running events in the area:

Is the Helvetia Half Marathon your next run?

American Cancer Society Bark for Life Runs
People and pooches are invited to these one-mile walk/runs:
Saturday, June 2 – Forest Grove
Saturday, June 2 – Beaverton

American Cancer Society Relay for Life Runs
This popular running event offers ample opportunity for participation in Washington County; more details:
Saturday, June 16 – Wilsonville
Saturday, June 23 – Hillsboro
Saturday, July 7 – Forest Grove
Saturday, July 14 – Tualatin
Saturday, July 21 – Beaverton

Helvetia Half Marathon & Widmer Brothers 10K
Saturday, June 9
Join in the 12th year of this popular event, which begins and ends at Hillsboro Stadium, winding through Washington County. The finish line party includes burgers from Helvetia Tavern, beer from Widmer Brothers and live music. Details.

Epic Oregon Relay
begins Friday, June 15
This “epic” relay race kicks off at Big Al’s in Beaverton, and runners in 12-member teams take turns and continue on for 187 miles to the finish line in Eugene on June 16. Details.

Bald Peak Half
Saturday, June 23
New this year, the Bald Peak Half Marathon stretches through country roads–some of which are unpaved–and winds up back in Hillsboro. Enjoy a pancake breakfast at the finish line party. Details.

Tigard Twilight 5K
Saturday, June 23
This 5K Run/Walk is held in conjunction with the annual Festival of Balloons in Tigard, at Cook Park. With a 7 p.m. start time, participants will see hot air balloons glowing at the finish at dusk. Details.

Cook Park Marathon and Half Marathon
Saturday, June 30
Enjoy running the trails along the Tualatin River. The race is limited to 100 runners, so register early: Details.

Terrain Mud Run
Saturday, June 30

Participants face more than 20 obstacles in this muddy, varied terrain at the Sherwood Forest Equestrian Center property in Sherwood. Choose from a 3- or 5-mile option, and prepare to get dirty: Details.

Stars and Stripes Marathon and Half Marathon
Sunday, July 1
Enjoy this fun run along the Greenway trails in Beaverton. Details.

5K Foam Fest
Saturday, July 28

You read it right: foam. In fact, foam and obstacles, which range from net climbs to ginormous inflatables. This is said to be “a fun and exciting challenge for the experienced and beginner runners alike.” Details.

This is just the tip of the running event iceberg–our first blog post outlined runs in April and May and we’ll have one additional post dedicated to area runs August through October 2012 (published in May). In addition, watch for our spring blog post listing all the upcoming bike events!


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The 2012-2013 Visitor Guide Debuts

April 18th, 2012 by Angie Marsh

The latest and greatest Washington County Visitor Guide is now available, featuring articles highlighting the region, as well as listings and information about all the unique attractions the area has to offer. This is a different guide than in years past; its magazine-style look and feel is aimed at giving readers a sense of place and an insider’s look at what to do and see when visiting.

This edition is divided into several easy-to-navigate major categories:

The magazine-style Visitor Guide is now available!

Discover: Farmers’ Markets, kid-centered attractions, annual events and more
Around the Towns: A rundown of the area’s cities and communities and their history and highlights
Happy Trails to You!: Camping, biking, hiking, fishing, kayaking, canoeing, picnicking, birdwatching, horseback riding–so much to do!
A Rich Tradition: History of winemaking here; Wine 101; regions of vintners in the area

The departments come next in the magazine, which include: play, harvest, shop, see, dine, stay and resources. These illustrate that there is, indeed, something for everyone in Washington County.

Additional details make the listings even more user-friendly, with a breakdown of restaurants by city, then divided by type of cuisine. An updated matrix shows all area hotels, bed & breakfasts and camping/RV parks and amenity details such as “pet friendly” and “outdoor pool.”

In order to navigate the county, the back of the book has an updated custom map, complete with new points of interest that include: kayak/canoe spots, farms open to visitors, and TriMet’s MAX light rail line. You’ll also find shopping centers, wineries, golf courses and recreation points, among other highlights.

Look for the guide to arrive soon at select Visitor Information Centers throughout Oregon, as well as Chamber offices in the County and select area hotels. Starting Friday, April 20, copies will be available for pick up at WCVA’s Visitor Center in Beaverton at 11000 SW Stratus St., Suite 170. Or request your own printed copy. The digital version is available here.


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Meet Friendly Farm Animals at Area Events

April 13th, 2012 by Angie Marsh

Spring lambs will be frolicking and hens are a’ layin’ this season throughout Washington County, and you’re invited to two special events marking the occasion, where animals and much more will be available.

Favorite 5 Country Farms Annual Spring Tour

Make new alpaca friends such as these at EasyGo Farm. Photo by Heather Anderson.

This self-guided tour offers an exploration of five farms in Sherwood, Tualatin and Wilsonville on Friday, Saturday & Sunday, April 20-22, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Birdsong Gardens – 5465 SW Prosperity Park Road in Tualatin
This nursery sells peonies, perennials, natives, trilliums, ferns, rhododendrons and more. Enjoy a walk in their forest and fields.

Barn Owl Nursery – 22999 SW Newland Road in Wilsonville
This herb nursery and lavender farm offers extensive gardens, as well as a gift shop with lavender products and more. Browse nearly 100 herbs for sale, ranging from French Tarragon to Bronze Fennel.

Hand to Heart Stables – 28201 SW 110th Avenue in Wilsonville
Meet some horses at this stable situated on 16 acres.

Tollen Farm – 11681 SW Tooze Road in Wilsonville
Meet sheep, Arabian horses, lambs and miniature donkeys on this working farm, which also offers everything from plants and livestock to art and home décor.

Stone Mist Alpacas – 27360 SW 145th Avenue in Sherwood
Meet award-winning alpacas on this farm, which is currently home to a herd of 32.

Pure Pizazz Jewelry Studio – 26328 SW McConnell Road in Sherwood
Stop by this studio to see the designer’s latest jewelry.

Admission cost is one can of food, which will be given to the local food bank. Look for red and white “Favorite 5″ signs as markers. For updates on this event, visit the Favorite 5 Country Farms blog.

Memorial Day Open Alpaca Barn & Sale

Take a break from the Memorial Day weekend wine tasting to stop in Sherwood and meet alpacas from Alpacas of Oregon and EasyGo Farm. The cuter-than-cute alpaca babies and their mothers will be greeting guests, and you’re invited to watch their annual shearing. Then take your own spin at creating alpaca yarn. The barn store will be open, offering luxurious alpaca products such as scarves, socks and yarn for sale.
Alpacas of Oregon farm will be open Saturday, May 26 and Sunday, May 27 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.


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Comics, Star Wars, Superheroes and Other “Nerd” Events & Attractions

April 11th, 2012 by Angie Marsh

Comics, Star Wars, superheroes…these events and attractions are made for, well, nerds. But around here, the term “nerd” has a positive connotation.

Stormtroopers & Comics

The stormtroopers are coming! Flickr photo by Nick Zolotko.

Star Wars at Powell’s Books – Cedar Hills Crossing Store

On Thursday, April 12, stormtroopers will descend upon the Powell’s Books in Beaverton. This is part of the “DK Star Wars Attack of the Authors” West Coast tour. Author Ryder Windham will be on hand to present his newly revised and expanded “Star Wars: The Ultimate Visual Guide.” Other recent DK Star Wars titles will be featured as well. The event is at 7 p.m. in Beaverton.

Things From Another World – Beaverton Store

Join in an event locals line up for: free comic book day. On Saturday, May 5, the Things From Another World store will give out free special-edition comics from popular publishers (while supplies last), as well as host special events throughout the day, including: five comic book authors (from 2-4 p.m.), video game prizes, free coffee, free cookies and more. And, of course, the special appearance by stormtroopers from Cloud City Garrison, a local chapter of the 501st Legion of Stormtroopers, a Star Wars imperial costuming club.

Exhibit: The Comic Book Art of Aaron Lopresti

This exhibit will feature the comic book superhero sketches of Wonder Woman, The Hulk, Spiderman, Batman and X-Men that Oregon native Aaron Lopresti has completed for Marvel and DC Comics in the last 20 years. Enjoy a closer look at the creative and technical process of his illustrations in various stages of development. This exhibit runs May 5-31 at the Washington County Museum, which is located at the Portland Community College Rock Creek campus.

Other Attractions to Check Out

Vintage Tek Museum

This is a museum unlike any other; it houses vintage equipment from Tektronix, the local iconic manufacturer of test equipment. The group’s mantra is “Keep analog education alive!”

The Vintage Tek Museum is located at 4620A  SW Beaverton-Hillsdale Highway in Portland, and is open Fridays and Saturdays.

Heroes & Hobbies Store

This Beaverton superhero-focused store is chock-full of memorabilia ranging from Pokemon to Star Trek. There’s also an ample comics selection and vintage toys. If you want to stop by Heroes & Hobbies, keep in mind that the store’s hours are Tuesday through Saturday, 4:30 p.m. to 10 p.m.


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A Closer Look at Our Cities: Forest Grove

April 9th, 2012 by WCVA

This month we go westward for a closer look at Forest Grove, located in northwestern Washington County, a small city that transcends its college-town atmosphere with its exquisite wineries, unique stores, distinctive restaurants and historic lodge.

Forest Grove's iconic Main Street

Forest Grove, Oregon

Located in the foothills of the Coast Range at the base of the Tillamook State Forest, Forest Grove is home to Pacific University, unique restaurants, six wineries, one craft beer brewery and the world’s only American owned-and-operated large-production saké brewery.

Sip

Forest Grove boasts an impressive collection of placed to sip handcrafted beverages at the source–wineries and breweries. In addition to visiting the area’s artisans, two wine shops, both located on downtown’s Main Street, pour wines from around the world.  Or relax at one of Forest Grove’s coffee houses  or pubs.

Shop

Forest Grove’s collections of boutiques, ranging from antiques to art, provide a rewarding shopping experience, while a seasonal farmers’ market, farm stores and tree farms offer visitors more shopping options.

Dine

Forest Grove has a multiude of restaurants serving cuisine from the four corners of the world. Nosh on American comfort-food dishes,  pair a locally produced wine with your favorite Italian dish, explore Middle Eastern cuisine,  satisfy a craving for Mexican food, try Pad Thai or other Thai specialty, explore a buffet of your favorite Chinese dishes, or taste yummy baked delights from area bakeries and cafes.

Explore

Finding your way through downtown Forest Grove is now easier, thanks to its new way-finding signs, which connect visitors to the area’s key districts and points of interest.

Play

Forest Grove offers many events throughout the year, appealing to all interests, including these upcoming popular annual events:

Sleep

After a day (or two, or three) of exploration, you can be rest assured that Forest Grove has a selection of places to stay overnight, including

For additional information about Oregon’s Washington County and its  amazing cities, visit our website.


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