After living in Hawaii for the past three years, I looked forward to having a real Oregon fall. While I enjoyed warm weather and fresh papaya, banana and pineapple, I did miss my fall favorites; the squash, pears, carrots and potatoes so readily available in Oregon.
To fulfill my fall needs I went to the Beaverton Farmer’s Holiday Market this past Saturday. The majority of the vendors were the summer regulars, with a few vendors selling holiday products. Smelling fresh pine greens from the vendor who sold holiday wreaths put me in the holiday spirit. Last Saturday was the final day for this year’s Beaverton Farmers Market, but the Hillsboro Winter Market is open every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. through December 12th and is located on Main Street between the Civic Center Plaza and the Courthouse.
There were so many varieties of squash available: Spaghetti, Carnival, Heart of Gold, Sweet Dumpling, Buttercup and Delicata–but I couldn’t bypass the butternut squash I needed to make my new favorite soup. This soup has great anti-inflammatory benefits and tastes great! Try it for yourself:
Curried Butternut Squash Soup
This recipe can be altered; the smaller amounts will yield a more mild soup.
1 T. olive oil
2 T-1/2 C onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
2 med. carrots, peeled and diced
2 t-1 T fresh ginger, peeled and minced
1 -3 t yellow curry powder
1 Large Butternut squash, peeled and cubed (3 large yams or sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed, can be substituted)
1 t salt or to taste
1 qt. chicken broth
1 can lite coconut milk
Put the olive oil in a large pot and add the onions, garlic, carrots and ginger. Cover and cook over medium heat for about 10 minutes or until the onions become translucent and the carrots are softened. Stir occasionally.
Add the cubed butternut squash, salt, curry powder and chicken broth, adding water if necessary to cover the squash. Bring to a moderate boil, then reduce and simmer over low heat. Continue to simmer, covered, until squash is tender, about 15-25 minutes.
Remove the soup from the heat and stir in the coconut milk. Puree the soup with a hand-held immersion blender, or ladle the soup into a blender and puree in small batches. Use caution when pureeing hot soup—cover the blender lid with a towel, and push firmly on the lid.
Autumn is by far my favorite season: the crisp, cool air; rust-colored leaves falling from the trees; the bright orange and green hues of the pumpkin patches. Indeed, ’tis the season to get out and explore fall in Washington County, Oregon. On Saturday, my family and I hopped into the car and did just that.
First stop was the Beaverton Farmers’ Market, a cornucopia of fall vegetables, colorful gourds, scrumptious apples and pears, and hearty potatoes and onions, all awaiting shoppers who ventured out on the brisk Saturday morning. Free coffee and fruit samples provided us the energy – and warmth – needed to navigate the market.
With our newly acquired produce in hand, we ventured off to our next stop, the Smith Berry Barn in Hillsboro. Each year, I make the pilgrimage to the Smith Berry Barn to stock up on apples, and this year is no exception. I loaded up my basket with freshly picked Macintosh apples, perfect for making caramel apple treats.
On a whim, we decided to head over to Baggenstos Farms in Sherwood, to check out the corn maze. Growing up in the desert, corn mazes were something I had only seen on television, or in scary movies. In reality it was not scary at all. Granted, it was a bright and sunny mid-afternoon. (However, my ever-adventurous daughter suggested we return and try the maze at night.) About a half hour after we entered, we mastered the maze, which, visible from the sky, is carved to look like Abraham Lincoln.
Before we left, we decided to try our hand at pumpkin bowling. This was a blast. We each had three tries to knock down the pins while throwing a ripe, orange pumpkin down the makeshift lane. On my second round, I threw a spare!
After our day in rural Washington County, we were exhausted; but, it was worth it to spend a memorable and fun day with my family. (And, yes, we will be going back to the corn maze … at night.)
So, don’t miss out on this opportunity to make your own autumn memories this October. The Beaverton Farmers Market, as well as the pumpkin patches and corn mazes at farms throughout the county are open through October 31. And don’t miss this year’s Apple Fest at Smith Berry Barn, Oct. 18. For a list of other autumn-inspired events, check out our event calendar.
The Beaverton Farmers’ Market hosts a one-day celebration of a time when all markets were open-air markets. So put on your medieval garb and join in the fun, including artisans demonstrating medieval crafts, children’s activities, music, cooking demos and sword tournaments.
This event is held in conjunction with the Washington County Chapter of the Society for Creative Anachronism – The shire of Dragon’s Mist, and is from 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Oktoberfest at McMenamins Grand Lodge
Join in a free gathering at McMenamins Grand Lodge in Forest Grove, complete with bands, beer, bratwurst and more in celebration of Oktoberfest!
Live music performances begin at 2 p.m.:
o CHERVONA (party troupe) 2 p.m.
o TRANSCENDENTAL BRASS BAND (marching jam band) 4 p.m.
o GYPSY CARAVAN (belly dancers) 5 p.m.
o DEER TICK (rock) 7 p.m.
o JACK McMAHON (folk/blues) 7 p.m.
SUNDAY, Sept. 27:
Tualatin Riverfront Music Festival
Enjoy the unique bluegrass and gospel sounds of the Misty Mamas band at this new annual event in Tualatin’s Browns Ferry Park.
Paddle your boat to the festival or borrow a boat on site from Tualatin Riverkeepers, the beneficiaries of the event.
A special Tualatin River Oktoberfest beer, brewed by Fanno Creek Brew Pub, will be available, along with Oregon pinots, sausages, veggie dogs and dessert.
Cost is $20 for adults; kids are free. The event is from 3 to 7 p.m.
Both SATURDAY & SUNDAY:
Festival Japan
Uwajimaya at 10500 SW Beaverton-Hillsdale Highway in Beaverton, again hosts its annual free two-day festival, which includes Japanese food, music and art for all ages! It ranges from taiko drumming to martial arts. The fest is 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Saturday, Sept. 12: A demonstration of “Artisan Cheese of the Pacific Northwest: A Discovery Guide” by Tami Parr. Parr’s Pacific Northwest Cheese Project blog has become the preeminent source for local cheese news, producer profiles, and cheese reviews. Her guide, Artisan Cheese of the Pacific Northwest, was released this spring, and she will be signing copies.
Saturday, Sept. 19: The 52nd Annual Beaverton Celebration parade kicks off at 10 a.m. and can be viewed from the west end of the market.
Saturday, Sept. 26: The market transforms for “Medieval Market Day.” Enjoy medieval activities, games and demonstrations.
Saturday, Oct. 3: A demonstration of “Deep, Dark Chocolate” by Sara Perry, a food columnist for The Oregonian and author of 12 cookbooks, including the latest about chocolate–what she calls “one of the most important food groups.”
There are plenty of shopping options in Washington County to ensure you get what you need to send your kids to school in style.
First off, I have to admit that I love to shop. So, it is with excitement that it is, once again, time for back-to-school shopping. With only 11 days left until my daughter starts school – her freshman year of high school, at that – I am feeling the rush to finish up the back-to-school shopping.
If you’re anything like me, you’re feeling that rush too. Before you head out for your own last-minute shopping, why not make a quick visit to Washington County, Oregon? It’s a shopaholic’s dream, with its multitude of boutiques, brand-name fashion clothing stores, and top-of-the-line retailers. Need more convincing?
There’s no sales tax in Oregon! None. Zero. Zilch. Oregon has no sales tax, which makes back-to-school shopping a bargain (especially for those who are visiting from out of state).
Special offers and discounts are available to out-of-town shoppers! Bridgeport Village and Washington Square both offer discounts and incentives to out-of-town visitors, and Macy’s has a savings pass, specifically aimed at both domestic and international travelers. (Visit Washington Square’s website and Bridgeport Village’s site for more information and a list of participating partners and packages.)
Parking is FREE (and there’s lots of it)! Parking is a breeze at the major retail centers, such as Washington Square, Streets of Tanasbourne and Bridgeport Village, so you can spend more time shopping, instead of looking for a parking spot. Plus, you will have more dollars in your wallet for fun stuff, not parking tolls.
The art of shopping is always in fashion (and easy on the wallet) in Washington County. And with three major shopping and retail centers (each easily accessible from major highways) there is a large variety of stores to choose from, including many of the nation’s best-known shops, as well as local favorites.
Visit the shopping section of our website for a list of the myriad shopping experiences you can have all year round.
Beaverton’s Hilton Garden Inn recently hosted an open house for its industry partners and the public to view the completed hotel renovations and to tour the upgraded guest rooms. Heather Anderson and I attended as representatives from the WCVA, and we were treated to a personal tour, where we saw first-hand the newly completed upgrades to all of the guest rooms, public spaces, and meeting spaces throughout the hotel. The Hawaiian-themed Luau, complete with our choice of bright leis, topped off what proves to be the celebration of a successful remodel.
I sat down with MacKenzie Upchurch, the Director of Sales, and asked her about the added value these changes have brought to the experience of their guests, and how the improvements have enhanced the high standard of quality and service the Hilton brand is known for.
LAURA: When did these renovations begin?
MACKENZIE: They began in March 2009 and [the renovations] were just completed in June 2009.
LAURA: Prior to this, when was the last remodel of the hotel?
MACKENZIE: The hotel was built in 1999 and had not been renovated, with the exception of updates such as new linens, bedding, and the addition of sleeper sofas in the guest rooms.
LAURA: What changes were made throughout the hotel?
MACKENZIE: We installed new carpet in all the guest rooms, public spaces and meeting rooms, as well as new wall vinyl. New lamps, window treatments and furniture were placed into all guest rooms, including ergonomic Mirra Chair by Herman Miller desk chairs. The King rooms have been upgraded to our new “Garden Sleep System” [and] adjustable beds and new flat screen TVs are in the works. The restaurant, Charley’s on Sunset, was painted, the buffet received a makeover and the bar was rebuilt with updated lighting and new flat screen TV.
LAURA: What was the goal behind these upgrades?
MACKENZIE: To update our product, making it more consistent with the vision of CSM Corporation (a real estate development and management corporation) and to create a more open, modern feel for our guests. With as many hotels as we have in Washington County, these improvements were also necessary to continue our competitive edge in the market.
LAURA: How are these improvements going to affect your guests?
MACKENZIE: There was very little guest disruption during our renovation thanks to the efforts of our amazing staff. Now with the service our guests have come to expect and deserve, they have the newest and most updated rooms in the area to choose from. The improvements have ensured that we are providing the quality of a Hilton, but are also catering to guests’ needs with amenities such as adjustable beds and energy-efficient lighting.
WCVA’s Laura Garratt with MacKenzie Upchurch, Director of Sales at Hilton Garden Inn, and the newest addition to Hilton’s sales team Alisha Reynaldo, Sales Manager. (L-R)
J O I N U S Friday, July 10 – Saturday, July 11 at Barnes & Noble to support Beaverton students participating in the Battle of the Books. Enjoy FREE in-store fun activities all day Friday and Saturday at the Tanasbourne location. Harry Potter Costume Party from 4pm – 6pm on Friday at Tanasbourne, including free wand making. Shop early during the Early Bird VIP Hour on Saturday from 8am – 9am. Meet local authors; Susan Fletcher – The Dragon Chronicles, Shadow Spinner Walk Across the Sea, Marianne Monson – Finding Fairies and Josie Seid, There’s a Frog in Swan Lake(authors scheduled Saturday from 1pm-2pm).…AND MUCH MORE!
Purchase/Donate a book off the Battle of the Books Wish List and receive a FREE gift, while supplies last!
Present this > bookfair code: 566901 prior to checkout at Barnes & Noble Tanasbourne or Barnes & Noble Washington Square and a percentage of the net sale will be donated to the Beaverton Education Foundation.*
Did you ever wonder how things went for Cinderella and Prince Charming in the Enchanted Kingdom after 20 years of marriage? Well then, do I have a theatre suggestion for you! “Happily Ever Once Upon” written by Virgina Kidd, is a delightful play that will be presented by the Beaverton Civic Theatre at the Beaverton City Library. This production is jam-packed with familiar fairy tale characters such as Goldilocks, Rumplestilskin, Red Riding Hood, Fairy Godmother, and Rapunzel.
When: July 9- July 23, 2009
7:30 p.m. Thursdays
8:00 p.m. Fridays & Saturdays
2:00 p.m. Sunday Matinees
Where: Beaverton Library Auditorium – 12375 SW 5th Street (5th & Hall) Beaverton OR 97005
For reservations call (503) 626-1936 or email beavertontheatre@gmail.com
Cost:
$15 General Admission
$12 Students, Seniors, and Groups
$5 Children ten and under
Community Partnership Performances :
Sunday, July 12: $5 ticket with donation of prom dress to Abby’s Closet
Friday, July 17: $5 ticket with used book, CD, or DVD donation to Friends of Beaverton Library.
Although the calendar says it’s Spring, the weather outside say otherwise, making this a perfect time for comfort food. Our intrepid blogger, Greg Coyle, set out to introduce you to two places where you can fill your belly for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
The Black Bear Diner is the exception to the rule: a chain restaurant that feels like a one-off. It has the same sort of look as many of the breakfast joints we’re all used to, but they go out of their way to go beyond your expectations.
We first discovered the Black Bear Diner in Bend on ski trips. In fact, after a time I wondered sometimes if we continued to make the trips just so we could make that obligatory stop. You laugh, but have you had their bear claws?
The menu is all fresh, hearty breakfast fare, including the usuals, plus a few standouts like Portuguese linguica and eggs, sweet cream pancakes. Lunch offers great burgers, plenty of salad options and delicious homemade shakes.
The food is always comforting and tasty, but what really stands out is the service. You’re greeted with a smile and served as though you really mattered, which of course you do.
Cue the oompah band, hoist up your lederhosen lift up your tankard. And Gustav’s is the best place this side of Garmisch-Partenkirchen to do it.
If you’re from Portland, chances are pretty good you’ve been to original location in NE Portland. But these days the Rheinescher Sauerbraten isn’t just for the eastsiders. Those of us on the other side of the river have our very own Gustav’s near Washington Square.
A roomy, beautifully decorated spot (with plenty of parking, at that), it’s a great spot for a special occasion or just to satisfy that hankering for stellar German fare like schnitzel, homemade sausages, fondue, rotisserie meats, potato pancakes. You’ll go back for the potato pancakes.
Head over from 3-6pm or 9-close for one of the best Happy Hours going. The fondue is only about five bucks, and good for dipping the crispy chicken schnitzel strips into.
Julia gets ready to hit the road, goody bags in hand, for her tri-state trip visiting AAA offices.
In order to get the word out about all the fantastic things to see and do in Washington County, especially our new Vineyard and Valley Scenic Tour Route, I am in the midst of a road trip, visiting major AAA offices throughout Oregon, Idaho and Washington. AAA’s Auto and Travel Counselors have been a wonderful audience full of enthusiasm and anxious to share new information with their clients. It’s been great to get out and explore the Northwest!
As part of our AAA outreach, some of our fantastic Washington County attractions donated items for Goodie Bags which will be available while supplies last at select offices. If you’re in Oregon, you can visit these offices to get yours: Beaverton, Bend, Clackamas, Corvallis, Eugene, Grants Pass, Lake Oswego, Medford, Portland, Salem or Springfield. If you’re in Idaho, visit the office. In Washington, you can grab a bag at any of these locations: Bellevue, Everett, Lynnwood, Olympia, Seattle Magnolia, Seattle University, Spokane or Tacoma.
I’m having so much fun on the road, sharing all of the great things about Washington County. We look forward to having lots of AAA members visit the area this summer! Be sure to tell us that you heard about Washington County from AAA!
This recipe can be altered; the smaller amounts will yield a more mild soup.
Join in a free gathering at 
J O I N U S Friday, July 10 – Saturday, July 11 at Barnes & Noble to support Beaverton students participating in the Battle of the Books. Enjoy FREE in-store fun activities all day Friday and Saturday at the Tanasbourne location. Harry Potter Costume Party from 4pm – 6pm on Friday at Tanasbourne, including free wand making. Shop early during the Early Bird VIP Hour on Saturday from 8am – 9am. Meet local authors; Susan Fletcher – The Dragon Chronicles, Shadow Spinner Walk Across the Sea, Marianne Monson – Finding Fairies and Josie Seid, There’s a Frog in Swan Lake(authors scheduled Saturday from 1pm-2pm).…AND MUCH MORE!
