“In a year where so many holiday traditions might have been squandered, the hunt for the perfect tree is a safe, outdoor option for families to spend time together making memories. Many of the u-pick farms go all-out for their holiday offerings, with animals, cider, crafts, and more. This year, it is more important than ever to support local farmers and businesses; consider making a day of it and enjoying the full experience with your crew.”

“In a year of upheaval, administrators and educators have adapted in unexpected ways to the global pandemic. Somewhere in the mayhem lies the critical question of substitutes: what happens when a teacher, administrator, or other school employee calls in sick or needs to take a leave of absence?“

“The aches and pains of 2020 have come in both physical and emotional forms, and the team at The Herb Shoppe has seen an uptick in customers seeking relief from both. Through herbal offerings of teas, tinctures, salves, and more, The Herb Shoppe serves up ‘traditional medicine for a modern time’ from its location on N. Mississippi Avenue, seven days per week.”

“I’ve often thought that if there was more of an a-la-carte photo service, I’d be game. Book a slot, whoever shows up gets some photos taken, and you pay for whatever photos you want to keep. Done. Enter Shoott, a new-to-Portland photography service…”

“For the 2020 edition of Dine the Couve, an event hosted every October by Visit Vancouver USA, 36 restaurants across Clark County will be offering up three-item menu specials for $25… The promotion has also moved to a full- day event, so diners can find breakfast and lunch options in addition to dinner deals…”

“Headquartered in Vancouver, Washington, Adair Homes began in 1969 and now employs 150 people across Oregon, Washington, Idaho, and Arizona. The company works diligently to keep staff unified across the distance, with regular events, an online leadership book club, and even a competitive potluck between branches.”

The [Mental Health and Addiction Association of Oregon] uses a peer-based model that serves people experiencing mental health and/or addiction challenges. The association’s 32 trained and certified peer support specialists, who identify as having lived the experience of mental health or addiction, walk alongside those seeking assistance on their path to recovery.

“The narrator was charismatic and skilled at working with young audiences, regularly bringing in call-and-response moments to make the performance interactive. How many children can yell “lettuce” at the same time? Turns out, an entire auditorium.”

One of the places Oregon caregivers turn to is Thelma’s Place, an intergenerational day center with locations in Canby and Redmond. The center provides daytime respite for those caring for a loved one at home, incorporating a creative, therapeutic approach to care…

Children are dancing their hearts out to the tune of “Baby Shark” in school gymnasiums throughout Oregon and southwest Washington. If you haven’t yet experienced the “Baby Shark” phenomenon…