You can see more of Delana’s work at Lunaria Gallery in Silverton and on her website at www.delanabettoli.com.

Cover Art:
“By the Stem”, Delana Bettoli

Amity

Amity Vineyards
18150 Amity Vineyards Road S.E., Amity
503-835-2362, amityvineyards.com
Join us for a Memorial Weekend in Wine Country. Taste what a pioneer (1974) winery can do. Taste our 2012s, including the Willamette Valley’s first Albariño, Gamay Noir, Sauvignon Blanc and 2008 Pinot Noir Reserve, plus 2009 and 2010 single-vineyard Pinot Noirs. Picnic area has incredible view. Like us on Facebook. No fee. 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Brooks Winery
21105 S.E. Cherry Blossom Lane, Amity
503-435-1278, brookswines.com
Please join us as we taste some of brand new 2012 whites and our current release Pinot Noirs, live music & food Sat, Sun &  Mon, 11-5.  $15 tasting fee with logo Pinot Noir glass to keep!   11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Calamity Hill Vineyards
9779 SE Hillview Drive, Amity
503-868-7115, calamityhill.com
Calamity Hill opens its tasting room (and the gardens, vineyard, and olive grove) to visitors. We normally release our newest Starlight White Pinot Gris. As always, there will be a selection of great local foods and a $5.00 tasting fee will be charged except for designated drivers. 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Coelho Winery
111 Fifth Street, Amity
503-835-9305, coelhowinery.com
New releases of our coveted wines: 2012 Renovação Estate Pinot Gris, 2011 Apreciação Estate Chardonnay, 2012 Divertimento Estate Pinot Noir Rosé, 2011 Atração Willamette Valley Pinot Noir, 2011 Paciencia Estate Pinot Noir, 2011 Tradição Red Wine Blend and 2011 Antecipação Petite Sirah Fee: $10.  11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Dukes Family Vineyards
7845 S.E. Amity Road • Amity
503-835-0620. dukesfamilyvineyards.com
Old vintages, amazing food parings, stunning views, relax by the pond. All estate-grown wines. Open by appointment on Memorial Day Weekend. First five receive logo Boomerang wine opener. Fee: $20 (includes Riedel stem; apply fee to four-pack purchase). 12 p.m. – 5 p.m.

Iota Cellars
7895 S.E. Amity Road • Amity
503-507-8063. iotacellars.com
Our first Memorial Day Weekend open house, we invite you to taste our highly limited 2010 Iota Pelos Sandberg Vineyard Pinot Noir and our 2011 barrel-aged rosé, “Phyllis.” Sneak peek at our yet-to-be-released 2011 Pinot Noir as well. Please visit our website for more information. Closed Monday. Fee: $10 (includes Riedel logo glass). 11 a.m. – 5 p.m..

Kristin Hill Winery
3330 S.E. Amity Dayton Highway, Amity
503-835-0850. kristinhillwinery.com
New releases include Kat’s Meow Müller-Thurgau and dry Gewürztraminer. Taste a selection of Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, Nouveau, Blush and our Port-style and sparkling wines. Discounts on three bottles or more. Meet the winemaker. Fee: $5 (includes tastings and assorted cheeses and fruits). 11 a.m..- 5 p.m.

Mia Sonatina Cellars
102 Nursery Street, Amity
503-449-0834 miasonatina.com
Wines crafted in an Old World style. We have big reds, Pinot Noir and Gris, Riesling, Tempranillo. Enjoy tasting in our comfortable and relaxed setting. Fee: $8 (includes tasting, barrel tasting, hors d’oeuvres).  12 p.m. – 5 p.m.

Mystic Wine
11931 S.E. Hoodview Road, Amity
503-931-5376, mysticwine.com
Peaceful views of Mt. Hood and the Valley welcome you to Mystic Wines. Hors d’oeuvres and select library wines available. $5 entry fee. 12 p.m. 5 p.m.

Carlton

Árdíri  Winery and Vineyards
35040 SW Unger Rd., Cornelius
503-628-6060, ardiriwine.com
Ardiri will host local food artisans for a weekend of spectacular wine and pairings, including specialty meats, cheeses and chocolates. Ardiri will also release “Vino di Tavola,” a gallon jug wine that was a huge hit when first released for the holidays last year. May 24-25 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.; May 26 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Corvallis

Tyee Wne Cellars
26335 Greenberry Rd., Corvallis
541-753-8754, tyeewine.com
Tyee’s Memorial Day Weekend Open House. featuring Tyee Estate Wines on the Buchanan Family Century Farm.  Hiking, Picnicking, Special Discounts and More. On Memorial Day Monday, May 27th, Noon to 5pm, Tyee hostsThe Space Neighbors in Concert with Dim Sum by Magenta.  12 p.m. – 5 p.m.

Dallas

Amalie Robert Estate
13531 Bursell Road, Dallas
503-88-CUVEE, amalierobert.com
Please join Dena and Ernie for a tasting of our new release Pinot Noirs and small-production Chardonnay, Pinot Meunier, Syrah and Viognier. The vineyard and winery are located 20 minutes west of Salem. Fee: $10; $15(reserve tasting); $10 (includes Riedel glass and cheeses; complimentary entry for “A-List” members). 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Chateau Bianca
17485 Highway 22, Dallas
877-623-6181, chateaubianca.com
Join us for barrel tasting, futures sales as well as special case discounts on pre-release estate Pinot Noir! Fee: $15 (includes light appetizers, barrel tastings and souvenir Riedel Oregon Pinot Noir Glass). 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Illahe Vineyards
3275 Ballard Road, Dallas
503-831-1248, Illahevineyards.com
Enjoy our refreshing 2012 whites and rosé along with our 2011 Bon Sauvage Pinot Noir and 2010 Reserve Pinot Noir paired with light nibbles. Take a vineyard tour with our horses Doc and Bea (weather permitting), and welcome summer on our patio with a view 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Namasté Vineyards
5600 Van Well Road, Dallas
503-623-4150, namastevineyards.com
Handcrafted, limited-production and award-winning wines combine to make Namasté Vineyards a can’t-miss destination. This is our grand unveiling of our new outdoor patios and their incredible views. Eleven wines to choose from, including our new Legacy Syrah and the always popular Peace. Fee: $10 (complimentary for club members). 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Van Duzer Vineyards
11975 Smithfield Road, Dallas
800-884-1927, vanduzer.com
Come for the wine, stay for the views. Join us this weekend for Pinot Gris, Pinot Noir and more. Tasting through new releases, as well as some old favorites. Fee: $10 (non-members). 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Dayton

Wine Country Frm B&B
6855 Breyman Orchards Rd., Dayton
503-864-3446, winecountryfarm.com
43 year old vines on spectacular views in the Red Hills. Tasting Pinot noir, Chardonnay, Riesling, Mueller Thurgau, Pinot gris, and a wonderful Dessert wine made in our 143 year old barn housing Arabian horses . Serving Pinot noir brownies and other treats. Tasting Fee $10, includes logo glass. 12 p.m.- 5 p.m.

Methven Family Vineyards
11400 Westland Lane, Dayton
503-868-7259, methvenfamilyvineyards.com
Come off the beaten path and discover what the Eola-Amity Hills has to offer! Methven Family Vineyards is a boutique family winery crafting estate-grown Pinot noir, Gamay noir, Chardonnay, Pinot gris, and Riesling. Fantastic food from The Joel Palmer House paired with our newest releases. Live music! 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

Sokol Blosser Winery
5000 Sokol Blosser Lane, Dayton
800-582-6668, sokolblosser.com
New Release! Sparkling Evolution Methode Champenoise. Lively music, fabulous lunch options and good friends will inspire you to spend the day with us. Sokol Blosser family will be here to guide you through our portfolio of current releases and vintage selections. Tasting fee includes barrel samples, bubbles and still wines. Tasting Fee: $15. 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Stoller Family Estate
16161 NE McDougall Rd., Dayton
503-864-3404, stollervineyards.com
Celebrate at our new tasting room and enjoy spring releases including a new Tempranillo Rosé, food pairings, and a terrific view from our expansive patio. Find out why Stoller was named a “Top 100 Winery” by Wine & Spirits Magazine. Tasting room fee: $20 includes logo glass. 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Seufert Winery
415 Ferry St., Dayton
503-864-2946, seufertwinery.com
New releases! New single vineyard Pinot noir – from Crowley Station Vineyard, Syrah, Pinot gris, and Rosé of Pinot noir. Try our mixed varietal flight or our specialty single vineyard Pinot noir flight paired with perfect little bites. Oregon wine, the Oregon way – in our downtown Dayton barrel hall tasting room. Tasting Fee: $5/$10. 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Winter’s Hill Vineyard
6451 Hilltop Lane NE, Dayton
503-864-4538, wintershillwine.com
Exceptional wines, Breathtaking views, Genuine hospitality. Tastings are conducted within the winery, so you can see, smell, and understand how we make our wines. Enjoy Pinot noir, Pinot gris, Pinot blanc, Rosé and Dessert wines all sourced from our Estate vineyard. Tasting Fee: $10 includes souvenir glass. 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Dundee

Argyle Winery
691 Highway 99W, Dundee
888-4-ARGYLE, argylewinery.com
Join us as we sample a terrific selection of wines—including the newly released Black Brut sparkling wine. Tasting fee includes wine tastings, logo glass, nibbles and the opportunity to sign up for special tastings during the day. Special discounts on selected wines. Tasting Fee $15 includes logo glass. 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Bella Vida Vineyard
9380 NE Worden Hill Rd., Dundee
503-538-9821, bellavida.com
Join us in celebrating our 10th Season. Pouring one white and 4 Pinots Noirs: 2012 Estate White Blend Gris-Ling®, 2010 “Winemaker Series” and our 2009 “Two Row Proprietors Cuvee”. Tasting fee includes wines, cheeses, breads, chocolate treats and logo pinot glass. Great Wines…Great Views From The Decks…Great Fun! Tasting Fee $15 includes logo glass. 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Daedalus Cellars
990 North Highway 99W, Dundee
503-538-4400, daedaluscellars.com
Come and taste elegant, naturally produced wines from some of Oregon’s best vineyards. Pinot noir, Grüner Veltliner, Pinot gris, Riesling & Syrah. New releases include our 2011 Pinot noir blanc and Jezebel Blanc, and very limited 2009 Labyrinth & Maresh Vineyard Pinot noirs. Tasting Fee $5-$10. 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Dobbes Family Estate
240 SE Fifth St., Dundee
503-538-1141, winebyjoe.com
Delight your palate with diverse whites from Southern Oregon and distinctive single vineyard and reserve cuvée Pinot noir from the Willamette Valley. Unsurpassed hospitality and diverse wines will make your experience at Dobbes the highlight of your Memorial Day weekend. Tasting Fee $15. 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Duck Pond Cellars
23145 Highway 99W, Dundee
503-538-3199, duckpondcellars.com
Celebrate our 20th anniversary with us! Admission includes a commemorative glass, tasting of five wines, barrel samples and optional cellar tour (3 pm). Small plates available for purchase. Saturday only: live music 12-4 pm. Tasting Fee $*$15 Saturday; $10 Sunday. 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

The Four Graces Winery
9605 NE Fox Farm Road , Dundee
503-554-8000, thefourgraces.com
Visit our charming, historical tasting room at the northern entrance to Dundee. Taste our new releases along with delicious wine country hors d’oeuvres. Stroll through the vineyard or relax. Tasting Fee $20, $10 for club members. 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Lange Estate Winery and Vineyards
18380 NE Buena Vista Drive, Dundee
503-538-6476, langewinery.com
Wine & spirits 2012 winery of the year! Join Winemakers Don and Jesse Lange for guided winery and tasting tours. Enjoy new releases, refreshing whites, acclaimed single-vineyard Pinot noirs and 26 YEARS of Dundee Hills history. Tour Includes exquisite wines, amazing views, tasting, logo glass and wine country nibbles. Tasting Fee $25 includes logo glass and tour. 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Torii Mor Winery
18365 NE Fairview Dr., Dundee
503-554-0105, toriimorwinery.com
Two tasting options: $10 tasting fee – enjoy our summer whites, elegant pinots, and our infamous Port. $30 – Barrel Cellar Tasting: a more intimate experience of barrel tasting and local cheeses and charcuterie specially paired with our Reserve wines. Seatings at 11, 1 and 3. Reservations recommended. 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

McMinnville

Anthony Dell Cellars
250 NE 3rd St.,McMinnville
503-910-8874, anthonydellcellars.com
Join us in downtown McMinnville. Small bites pair with our great wines. Taste Pinot noir, Roussanne, Baco noir, and Grenache. Artisan cheese from Abbie & Oliver’s and fine chocolate from Tamami make us THE place to be this Memorial Day Weekend.  Tasting Fee $10. 12 p.m. – 6 p.m.

Dominio IV
888 NE Eighth Street McMinnville
503-474-8636, dominiowines.com
Some of our bottles sit around on their sides collecting dust for years, like our 2006 Estate Tempranillo “Tango”. When they are glorious, we dust them off and put on their labels. Come enjoy this wine and other remarkable bottles of Pinot, Syrah and Viognier we’ll open special for this weekend. Tasting Fee $10 non-members. 12 p.m. – 5 p.m.

Maysara Winery
15765 Muddy Valley Rd., McMinnville
503-843-1234, maysara.com
Come and join the Momtazi Family for a weekend of wine, homemade Persian inspired food and live music!! We will be releasing our 2012 Arsheen Pinot gris, 2012 Autees Pinot blanc & 2009 Asha Pinot noir!! Receive a 15% off cases during the Memorial Day Weekend event! Tasting Fee $20. 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Remy Wines
905 NE 10th Ave., McMinnville
503-560-2003, remywines.com
Relish in Remy’s delicious Old World Style Wines, take advantage of new releases, holiday specials, and limited production wines. Tasting includes single vineyard, Italian varietals and the Three Wives Wines. Sat/Sun 12 p.m. – 5 p.m.; Mon 12 p.m. – 4 p.m.

Terra Vina Wines Vineyard
585 NE Third St., McMinnville,
503-925-0712, terravinawines.com
Taste our fabulous new wines and barrel samples of wines to be bottled later this year. 12 p.m. – 5 p.m.

Twelve
581 NE 3rd Street, McMinnville
503-435-1212, twelvewine.com
Come see us in historic downtown McMinnville. We’ll be pouring Pinots including our new Wadenswil blend plus the just bottled 2011 Estate White. And free chocolate with every tasting. Tasting Fee $8. Sat.-Mon. 12 p.m. – 6 p.m.

Westrey Wine Company
1065 NE Alpine Ave., McMinnville
503-434-6357, westrey.com
Winemakers Amy Wesselman and David Autrey source Pinot noir, Pinot gris, and Chardonnay grapes from Oregon’s premier sites, including their own Oracle Vineyard in the Dundee Hills. The beautiful vistas are at the vineyard, but these hand made wines are crafted in the heart of McMinnville. Tasting Fee $5. 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Yamhill Valley Vineyards
16250 SW Oldsville Rd., McMinnville
503-843-3100, yamhill.com
Come visit and remember the joys of our Pinot noir, Pinot blanc, Pinot gris, and Riesling! Enjoy delicious pairings with each of our fabulous wines. Take in beautiful panoramic views of the valley and our 100-acre vineyard from our deck and enjoy the company of our friendly staff! Tasting Fee $10. 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Monmouth

Airlie Winery
15305 Dunn Forest Road, Monmouth
503-838-6013, airliewinery.com
The wines, setting, LIVE MUSIC, and great food for purchase, make this a must stop! New releases, a wide variety, and great case discounts are included! Entry fee gets you and souvenir wine glass and will be cut in half if you bring your own Airlie glass from Memorial weekends past! 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Monroe

Benton-Lane Winery
23924 Territorial Highway, Monroe
541-847-5792, benton-lane.com
Enjoy picture perfect view surrounding a family owned sustainably farmed estate vineyard. Four time recipient of “Top 100 Wines of the World”. Experience our silky, sexy Pinot noirs, Pinot gris, Pinot blanc & Chardonnay. Tasting Fee $7, refundable w/$20 purchase. 12 p.m. – 5
Newberg

Adelsheim Vineyard
16800 NE Calkins Ln., Newberg
503-662-4509, adelsheim.com
Taste our exclusive, limited production wines that are sold only at the winery. We specialize in Single Vineyard Pinot noirs from our Estate vineyards in the Chehalem Mountains. Just released: 2010 Elizabeth’s Reserve Pinot noir – our highest rated yet! Admission includes artisan cheeses, charcuterie and Riedel Oregon Pinot noir glass. 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Anam Cara Cellars
306 N. Main St. (Hwy. 240), Newberg
503-537-9150, anamcaracellars.com
Debut for Spring Releases including our first unoaked Chardonnay, Rosé, Rieslings and long awaited dessert Gewürztraminer. Also the only opportunity to purchase Pinot noir 2011 futures at discount. New local art exhibit and premium wood crafts. Tasting fee includes our Nicholas Estate wines, Oregon cheeses and other delicacies. Tasting Fee $10. 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Anderson Family Vineyard
20120 NE Herring Ln., Newberg
503-554-5541, andersonfamilyvineyard.com
Steep Slopes. Deep Roots. Intense Flavors. New Releases: 2010 Pinot noir and Dijon Chardonnay. Small lot, handcrafted  wines form our manicured, landslide vineyard. Easy access: Dundee Hills off red Hills road, just south of 240-.l Come for the view, barrel cave tours and wines. Tasting Fee $10. 11 a.m.- 5 p.m.

Aramenta Cellars
17979 NE Lewis Rogers Ln., Newberg
503-538-7230, aramentacellars.com
Aramenta is a small production artisan winery dedicated to handcrafted wines. Please join us at our Ribbon Ridge location and taste current releases of Estate grown Pinot noir paired with artisanal cheeses, breads and chocolate. Also pouring Chardonnay.  Tasting Fee $10. 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

August Cellars
14000 NE Quarry Rd., Newberg
503-554-6766, augustcellars.com
Taste the depth and breadth of Oregon wines Saturday & Sunday with Toluca Lane, Artisanal Wine Cellars, Smitten: Artisan Truffles, J&T Arts. Monday August Cellars is open as we honor the men and women who have served our country. Stop in for that bottle to toast their service. Tasting Fee $15. 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Beaux Fréres
15155 NE North Valley Rd., Newberg
503-537-1137, beauxfreres.com
Join winemaker Michael Etzel and the Beaux Frères team as they show thefirst glimpse of the 2012 vintage from barrel and 2011’s in bottle (plus otherspecial wines). Art, nibbles and souvenir Riedel Oregon Pinot noir glass. Tasting Fee $20, includes Riedel glass. 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Bergström Wines
18215 NE Calkins Ln., Newberg
503-554-0468, bergstromwines.com
We welcome you to visit Bergström Wines to taste and purchase our newly released wines including our limited production 2011 Sigrid Chardonnay & 2011 Single Vineyard Pinot noirs. Enjoy these wines with exquisite cheeses and artisan breads. $15 Tasting fee includes an etched Riedel glass. Tasting Fee $15. 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Colene Clemens Vineyards
22501 NE Dopp Rd., Newberg
503-662-4687, coleneclemens.com
Come take in the breathtaking view from our patio this Memorial Day Weekend! We will be pouring our newly released 2012 Rosé and 2011 Margo Pinot noir, in addition to the current lineup of Colene Clemens Wines.  Tasting Fee $15. Sat/Sun 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

J.K. Carriere Wines
9995 NE Parrett Mountain Road, Newberg
503-554-0721,jkcarriere.com
Tour Parrett Mountain! We are quintessential Oregon overlooking the Cascades. For 14 years we’ve consistently crafted some of the state’s most substantial Pinot, Chardonnay and perhaps its best Pinot rosé, all at the high end of the acid spectrum. Come taste the new releases. Tasting Fee $10. Sat. 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. & Sun. 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. (Closed Mon).

Natalie’s Estate Winery
16825 NE Chehalem Dr., Newberg
503-807-5008, nataliesestatewinery.com
Enjoy our new releases of full-bodied reds – meritage, zinfandel, syrah and other surprises! Scrumptious hors d’oeuvres paired with distinctive wines in a welcoming atmosphere. Family run, boutique winery with limited production of handcrafted wines. Talk with our winemaker. Open by appt. and major weekends only. 10% case discounts. Tasting Fee $10. 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Patricia Green Cellars
15225 NE North Valley Rd., Newberg
503-554-0821, patriciagreencellars.com
Sublime tasting of 2012 Pinot noir barrel futures from some of the great Pinot noir vineyards in Oregon, including our newest addition, Freedom Hill Vineyard. A few 2011s thrown in for good measure. Release of the ever popular 2012 Sauvignon Blanc and 2012 Dry Muscat Ottonel. Tasting fee partially refundable. Tasting Fee $20. 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Privé Vineyard
28155 NE Bell Rd., Newberg
503-544-0464, privevineyard.com
Let us transport you to Burgundy…spring barrel tasting and French Market. St. Honoré Bakery will offer their heavenly baked goods to enjoy with our tasting of artisan French cheeses. Take home your favorites! Tasting and purchases available on 2011 & 2012 wines. Tasting Fee $15. Sat/Sun 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Mon 12 p.m. – 4 pm.

Redman Vineyard and Winery
18975 NE Ribbon Ridge Rd., Newberg
503-554-1290, redmanwines.com
Lush vineyard setting, bountiful appetizers and warm conversation will entwine with our high-end, small-lot handcrafted wines. Savor our new releases: 2011 Chardonnay, 2012 Arneis and Pinot blanc, 2010 Pinot noir Reserve. Plus our exceptional 2009s Pinot noir and 2007s Tempranillo, Barbera and “Bill’s Blend”.  11 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Shea Wine Cellars
12321 NE Highway 240, Newberg
503-241-6527, sheawinecellars.com
We’ll be offering barrel samples of our 2012 small-lot Pinot noirs including Homer, and our 2011 Estate Pinot and Chardonnay.  Sat/Sun 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Styring Vineyards
19960 NE Ribbon Ridge Road, Newberg
503-866-6741,
We are a small, authentic, family owned/operated vineyard & winery using sustainable farming practices. We grow and make small case lots of award-winning wines and serve them in a lively atmosphere. Taste Estate Pinot noir, Riesling, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Petit Verdot. Meet the winemaker, @mollythewinedog and tour the barrel room. 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Trisaetum Winery
18401 Ribbon Ridge Road, Newberg
503-538-9898, trisaetum.com
Located in the heart of Ribbon Ridge, tour our subterranean barrel cave, fermentation hall and contemporary art gallery. Pouring newest Rieslings & Pinot noirs. Opportunity to sample and purchase futures of 2012 Pinot noir.  Tasting Fee $10 all wines and wine/food pairings. Sat/Sun 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Philomath

Spindrift Cellars
810 Applegate St., Philomath
541-929-6555, spindriftcellars.com
Visit our Open House on Memorial Day Weekend. Sat/Sun/Mon 12 p.m. – 5 p.m.

Rickreall

Cherry Hill Winery
7867 Crowley Road, Rickreall
503-623-7867, cherryhillwinery.com
Enjoy the beautiful views while tasting our 2010 Pinot Noirs and 2012 Blanc de Pinot Noir and Pinot Noir rosé. Fee: $10 (includes food, special prices on selected wines; refunded with purchase). 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Eola Hills Wine Cellars
501 S. Pacific Highway 99W, Rickreall
800-291-6730, eolahillswinery.com
Join us at the winery and our newest location, Legacy Vineyard, 16000 Oak Crove Rd, Salem. We will have 10 reserve wines to sample. We will be pouring our award-winning wines at both locations! Case discounts, a souvenir wine glass, live music and munchies available. Fee: $15; $5 (Corksniffer members). 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Firesteed Cellars
2200 N Pacific Highway W., Rickreall
503-623-8683, firesteed.com
First barbecue of the season with tasting of newly released Willamette Valley Pinot Noir rosé and other summer wines along with our premium Pinot Noirs and some library wines. Experience it for yourself. Fee: $10 (includes premium wine tasting and food catered by Stampede BBQ Company; club members taste free).  11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Johan Vineyards
4285 N. Pacific Highway 99W, Rickreall
866-379-6029, johanvineyards.com
May 25–26 (11 a.m. to 5 p.m.) Celebrate the weekend at our family-run, boutique winery. Enjoy handcrafted wines from our certified Biodynamic estate vineyard. Take in gorgeous views while chatting with the owner and winemaker. Viking Soul Food will be here selling their lefse wraps. Fee: $10 (includes logo glass; $5 refunded with bottle purchase).  11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Left Coast Cellars
4225 N. Pacific Highway 99W, Rickreall
503-831-4916, leftcoastcellars.com
Join us for Sip & Stroll, our new Memorial Weekend celebration with different activities each day so you can explore and experience our beautiful estate. Sat & Sun: winery open house featuring new releases and delicious bites. Music Monday: Live performance by Blue-Eyed Soul, 1 to 4 p.m. Tasting room & cafe ~ open daily, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Fee: $20 (includes logo glass).  11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Salem

Ankeny Vineyard & Winery
2565 Riverside Road S., Salem
503-378-1498, ankenyvineyard.com
Wood-fired pizza available for purchase. Live music on Saturday. Fee: $5 (includes 10 wines). May 24-25 11 a.m. – 8 p.m.; May 26-27 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Arcane Cellars Wheatland Winery
 22350 Magness Rd. N.W., Salem
503-868-7076, arcanecellars.com
Taste our award-winning wines and new releases: Pinot Noir, Pinot Noir Blanc, Pinot Gris, Pinot Blanc, Grenache, Riesling, rosés, Merlot, Music of the Spheres red blend, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon and our Madouro desert wine. Bocce court, picnic areas, arboretum in a beautiful private setting along the Willamette River. Great small bites. Fee: $15 (includes tastings of 10-plus current release wines). 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Bethel Heights Vineyard
6060 Bethel Heights Road N.W., Salem
503-581-2262, bethelheights.com
Escape to the Eola-Amity Hills, and join us at Bethel Heights for a special opportunity to taste and purchase our limited edition single vineyard Pinot Noirs from the acclaimed 2010 vintage. Find out what the buzz is all about. Two days only. Fee: $20 (includes Riedel Oregon Pinot Noir glass). 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Bryn Mawr Vineyards
5955 Bethel Heights Road N.W. • Salem
503-581-4286. brynmawrvineyards.com
Join us for a comprehensive tasting of our current releases and select prior vintages. We will pour tastes of 10 wines, including our highly coveted 2011 Chardonnay. After tasting, bring a picnic and enjoy our astounding view of the Coastal Range. Fee: $10 (includes cheese plate and tasty morsels). 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Cristom Vineyards
6905 Spring Valley Road N.W., Salem
503-375-3068, cristomwines.com
Join us at Cristom, where we’ll be pouring our current vintage Pinot Noirs, along with some jewels from our library. We’ll be serving a stellar selection of local cheeses and charcuterie. Local jazz impresario Dan Balmer will enliven our spirits on Saturday and Sunday. Fee: $20 (refundable with $100 purchase). 10a.m. – 4 p.m.

Cubanísimo Vineyards
1754 Best Road N.W., Salem
503-588-1763, cubanisimovineyards.com
Celebrate the Oregon wine experience Cuban-style at Cubanísimo Vineyards. Spend the day on our tropical patio listening to live Latin music by Pura Vida, enjoying Cuban tapas and free salsa dance lessons while drinking our fabulous Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris and Rosado de Pinot Noir 12 p.m. – 6 p.m.

Eola Hills Wine Cellars
Legacy Vineyard: 1600 Oak Grove Road
503-623-2405, eolahillswinery.com
Join us at the winery and our newest location, Legacy Vineyard, 16000 Oak Crove Rd, Salem. We will have 10 reserve wines to sample. We will be pouring our award-winning wines at both locations! Case discounts, a souvenir wine glass, live music and munchies available. Fee: $15; $5 (Corksniffer Members). 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Evesham Wood Winery
3795 Wallace Road N.W., Salem
503-371-8478, eveshamwood.com
Taste our spring releases, including two 2011 Pinot Noirs, Eola-Amity Hills Cuvée and estate La Grive Bleue, along with two single-vineyard 2011 Pinot Noirs from Haden Fig. Experience the idyllic southern Eola Hills setting of our certified organic vineyard along with hors d’oeuvres and cheeses Fee: $7 (includes nearly dozen wines).  12 p.m. – 4 p.m.

Haden Fig
(at Evesham Wood)
3795 Wallace Road N.W., Salem
503-477-6960, hadenfig.com
Come taste our recently released 2011 single-vineyard Pinot Noirs from Bjornson Vineyard and Cancilla Vineyard. We’ll also have numerous open from Evesham Wood, including our 2011 estate Pinot Noir La Grieve Bleue. Fee: $7 (includes nearly dozen wines along with hors d’oeuvres and cheeses).  12 p.m. – 4 p.m.

Honeywood Winery
1350 Hines Street S.E., Salem
503-362-4111, honeywoodwinery.com
Join us as we celebrate the start of summer with seasonal platters and wine cocktails. Enjoy the hospitality of our staff as we sample new releases and longtime favorites. More than 40 designer wines to please every palate. Sip, snack and sit on our outdoor patio. Case discounts and weekend specials. May 24-25 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.; May 26 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.; May 27 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Kathken Vineyards
5739 Orchard Heights Road N.W., Salem
503-316-3911, kathkenvineyards.com
Please join us for our Memorial Day Weekend open house. Fun times, music, food and fabulous wine. Fee: $8 (includes tastes of wine, appetizers).  May 25-26 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.; May 27 12 p.m. – 4 p.m.

Orchard Heights Winery
6057 Orchard Heights Road N.W., Salem
503-391-7308, orchardheightswinery.com
Join us on our award-winning patio. Wine specials all weekend: up to 50 percent off select wines, three-packs, plus case discounts. Lunch available for purchase on Friday, Saturday and Monday. Lunch not available on Sunday. Fee: $5 (includes wine tasting; waived with the purchase of a bottle of wine). 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Pudding River Wine Cellars
9374 Sunnyview Road N.E., Salem
503-365-0391, puddingriver.com
Join us on Memorial Day for our Open House Celebration. Fri/Sat/Sun 11 a.m – 5 p.m.

Redhawk Vineyard & Winery
2995 Michigan City Road N.W., Salem
503-362-1596, redhawkwine.com
Join us for wine and barrel tasting, delicious food and our incredible view. The barbecue will be sizzling once again with homemade sausages and tri-tip sandwiches along with the house made smoked salmon pate, cheeses, salad and more. Meet the winemaker, sample our current selection of wines and barrel taste a future release. Special discounts during the festival. Fee: $10 (includes entrance, food, wine).  11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Sass Winery
9092 Jackson Hill Road S.E. • Salem
503-391-9991. sasswinery.com
Catch up on the fabulous 2012 harvest, new vineyard plantings and wine club. Taste new releases of Pinot Gris, Pinot Blanc, Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Lots of new wines and old friends. Fee: $5 (refunded with wine purchase).  12 p.m. – 5 p.m.

Stangeland Vineyards
8500 Hopewell Road N.W. • Salem
503-581-0355. stangelandwinery.com
May 25–27 (10 a.m. to 5 p.m.) Join us Memorial Weekend to taste our new releases: 2010 Estate Chardonnay, 2010 Estate Reserve Pinot Noir, 2010 Tempranillo, plus Gewürztraminer, rosé of Tempranillo and other great wines! From 10 a.m. to noon each day, we will be offering a special: buy one case get the second of equal or lesser value for only $1 when you mention you saw it in the Oregon Wine Press. Fee: $5. 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

St. Innocent Winery
5657 Zena Road N.W., Salem
503-378-1526, stinnocentwine.com
St. Innocent Winery invites you to a progressive wine and food pairing featuring six of our handcrafted, terroir-driven wines. Each wine will be paired with tasty morsels specifically prepared to complement the flavors of the wine. Fee: $15. 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Trinity Vineyards
1031 Wahl Lane S., Salem
503-371-6977, trinityvineyards.com
Come out this weekend to our Annual Memorial Open House and enjoy a some great wines, nibbles and fantastic vineyard views. Sat 12 p.m. – 5 p.m.

Vitae Springs Vineyard
3675 Vitae Springs Road S., Salem
503-932-9786, vitaesprings.com
The hidden gem of the Willamette Valley. Family-owned and -operated for 35 years, delicious wines, lush surroundings. Traditional Old World-style winemaking proves to be a success here. Live music on Friday and Saturday. Deep case discounts available. Fee: $15 (includes logo glass). May 24-25 12 p.m. – 6 p.m.; May 26 12 p.m. – 4 p.m.

Walter Scott Wines
6130 Bethel Heights Road N.W. • Salem
971-209-7786, walterscottwines.com
Eola-Amity Hills, spending the day exploring the hills, discovering what makes this AVA special. Walter Scott will be barrel tasting 2012 wines with Bunk Sandwiches on site Saturday selling their fantastic fare. Fee: $10. 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Witness Tree Vineyard
7111 Spring Valley Road N.W., Salem
503-585-7874, witnesstreevineyard.com
We will be barrel tasting the extraordinary 2012 vintage and offering the wines to you on a future’s basis in our Witness Protection Program. You will also taste through the amazing line-up of our other estate wines. Fee: $10 (includes glass, hors d’oeuvres and live music by John Nilsen at the keyboard). 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Turner

Willamette Valley Vineyards
8800 Enchanted Way S.E., Turner
503-588-9463, willamettevalleyvineyards.com
May 25–27 (11 a.m. to 6 p.m.) You’re invited to our annual Blind Tasting Competition. Blind-taste and match world-class Pinot Noir, including Domaine de la Romanée Conti, to its respective appellation. Grand prize is a wine blending experience with our winemaker followed by lunch at our estate restaurant. Walk-ins welcome or eserve your spot at 503-588-9463. Fee: $10 (includes Riedel glass, hors d’ oeuvres and live music; reserve tasting for an additional $5.).  11 a.m. – 6 p.m.

The 3.7 acre parcel is west of the train tracks and just south of the carousel parking lot. There is no direct access to any city street.  The developers are asking Salem City Council to give access through the carousel parking lot.

Currently cars and pedestrians must cross the railroad tracks to reach the carousel and it’s parking. Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) says it will not approve an additional crossing over the tracks, and that it does not want any traffic signal timing changes to slow down traffic on Front Street.

The Carousel has 71 parking spaces which are often full. While the apartment complex would have 178 parking spaces, there’s no guarantee that apartment residents or their guests won’t sometimes decide to use the Carousel parking lot.

The developer also owns another Boise site to the east of the railroad tracks, where a nursing home is proposed.  Both sites are zoned under Salem’s “South Waterfront Mixed-Use” code, intended to promote a “vibrant downtown within the City of Salem.”

A number of critics question whether apartments and a nursing home fulfill this objective.

Riverfront Park is currently Salem’s only “event park” with festivals and evening concerts.  These events may result in noise complaints from apartment residents. ODOT commented that noise and ground vibration from trains may also affect the quality of life for residents of the nursing home and apartment complex.

The proposed apartment complex does not have any setbacks from the park boundary.  There is concern that apartment residents may decide to use the park as their personal backyard, with barbeques and lawn chairs.

Salem City Council will also be asked to agree to a ten-year abatement in property taxes on the increase in assessment.

Elizabeth Miller Jenkins is a third-generation Willamette Valley farmer; her grandfather grew blueberries, and the land Chris and Elizabeth cultivate was first farmed by her parents in the 1970’s. Elizabeth grew up working on the land. Her parents grew peppermint, native plants, and poplars for paper and, more recently, biomass.  They also experimented with growing tea.  Since 2008, her parents have been gradually shifting the responsibility for these projects to the younger generation, and Chris and Elizabeth have added their own variations – acres of organically grown vegetables, a seasonal farm stand, U-pick blueberries, and a food truck.

“We do everything,” Elizabeth tells me.  We talk at her kitchen table as Chris cooks, and she eats her breakfast – the only time she had to give me out of her busy, busy day.  “I’m in charge of the crop planting, the seed list, and managing the crew.  Chris does the greenhouse, the native plants, the mint, the tea, and the poplars.  We do the books, the payroll, the taxes, the marketing, the CSA, the Web site.  The farm is our whole life.”

Chris grew up in Ohio.  He and Elizabeth met while attending Colorado College, and discovered a mutual passion, not only for each other, but for organic farming.  Influenced by the work of Michael Pollen and a growing awareness of the importance of local food, they returned to Salem and began Minto Island Growers.  As a Salem native, Elizabeth appreciates the perspective of newcomers “I grew up here, and I sense a whole new energy.  Salem has such amazing possibilities to be a center [of the new food movement].”

Minto Island Growers has 10 full-time and about the same number of part-time employees.  Food truck employees often come from South Salem High’s Culinary Program and many of their farm workers are students from Willamette University’s Sustainable Farm Program.  “We would love to do a whole farm at some point, raising animals, growing grains.  We’d also like to expand our U-pick business and put in more acres of blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries.”

Minto Island is Certified Organic through Oregon Tilth, and sells its produce through their CSA program, and at their farm stand, the Salem Saturday Market, LifeSource Natural Foods, and the nascent Salem Food Coop.  They also sell to local restaurants La Capitale “our first real supporter” and Broken Bread.

“We are dedicated to making connections and supporting the local economy. “

Chris and Elizabeth are out of time for our interview – on to the next thing on their busy schedules – but they invite me to wander the farm on my own.  I walk down to the greenhouses and peer at the tiny mint seedlings, find the tea – a maze of tightly trimmed hedges (related to camellias Chris has told me, who knew?) and walk out into the fields of vegetables.  There are quite a number of crops for this early in the spring – I see several kinds of kale, beets, turnips (or maybe rutabagas?) and arugula.  There are rows of beautiful, intensely purple cauliflower.

I pick up a handful of soil and am surprised.  The soil in my Salem backyard vegetable patch is heavily clay; at this wet time of year it sticks together in a compact ball when compressed.  Here the soil is quite sandy, and crumbles from my fist when I squeeze it.  I wonder if that is due the influence of the nearby Willamette River.  I’ll have to ask Elizabeth, –if I can catch her.

Oregon spends about $28 million annually to maintain the death penalty system. Every death penalty case costs taxpayers millions of dollars more than non-death penalty murder cases. De Muniz pointed out that, in the past 50 years, there has been only two executions in Oregon (both “volunteers”), and that adds up to “bad public policy.”

De Muniz, who chaired Governor Kitzhaber’s Commission on Public Safety last year, urged the sold-out audience at Willamette University to advocate for a thorough audit of death penalty economics as a prelude to a repeal vote in 2016.

To illustrate a point, De Muniz spoke of having defended a murderer sentenced to death in 1988. In that interceding 25 years, De Muniz experienced a full career in law, from attorney, to judge, to Chief Justice of the Supreme Court and now into retirement.

In the meantime, the inmate is still on death row, exhausting his state court appeals before moving on to the federal system.

While Muniz sat as Chief Justice, the Supreme Court initiated a review of recent death penalty cases. The panel of independent, retired judges found that the most recent death penalty cases have each been constitutionally flawed because of procedural issues and inadequate defense.

Nearly half of all Oregon death penalty cases have been overturned, records show.

Frank Thompson, Superintendent of the Oregon State Penitentiary when the last executions took place (1996, 97) also spoke at the Willamette event.  The 25-year veteran of law enforcement and corrections said that he anguished over those responsibilities, with great concern for his employees.

Thompson said, “The fact that there have been 142 exonerations from death rows across the country, for crimes they did not commit, suggests that we have also executed some innocent people in America. “Not only is it a failed public policy,” he added, “it is immoral.”

Edwin Peterson, another retired Oregon Supreme Court Justice at the event, also announced that he, too, would begin speaking out publicly against Oregon’s death penalty.

The seven, members of the Marion Polk Move to Amend (MPMTA) group, joined with 50 other affiliates in cities across the United States to mark the 127th anniversary of the Santa Clara County v. Southern Pacific Railroad decision, the first time the Supreme Court ruled that corporations are “persons,” entitled to certain rights under the U.S Constitution.

In protest of this precedent, the volunteers mounted a banner on the Portland Road I-5 overpass in Salem early Friday morning.

Their sign read, “OMG…Corporations Are People And Money Is Speech?” to draw attention to the Move to Amend call for an amendment to the US Constitution to overrule the Supreme Court and declare that only human beings have Constitutional rights.

“It’s the issue of the century,” said Caroline Bridges, another MPMTA member. “It’s more important than anything I can think of, because we want to return power to the people and every year it gets a little harder.”

At about 9AM, a Salem police officer stopped to tell the protestors law enforcement had received a complaint from someone.  However, when the officer saw there was no obstruction on the sidewalk and all was peaceful, he declared there was no problem and left.

At about 10AM, the situation changed again, with a stop by an Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) employee who told the protestors to leave.  A state policeman arrived as well.

The ODOT employee informed the protestors that they were not allowed on state highways or overpasses.  He told them they must “take that (banner) down, or I will.”

The protestors were standing peacefully on a well-traveled public sidewalk, allowing plenty of room for others to pass.

However, on the request of the officials, they left the location.

Doppelt is Executive Director of The Resource Innovation Group, which is affiliated with the Center for Sustainable Communities at Willamette University. He is also an adjunct instructor in the Department of Planning, Public Policy and Management at the University of Oregon. “This workshop will help us to move from concern to action about climate change,” said Senior Pastor Janet Parker of the Congregational Church. “It will offer ways to overcome our despair and paralysis in order to make a real difference on the climate change challenge.”

According to organizer Rick Bingham, a Congregational Church member, “Doppelt will explain that the problems we face today are of our own making. They are the result of the greatest failure of thought in human history. Only after people alter their assumptions and beliefs about how the planet functions and what it means to live a good and decent life will society overcome today’s challenges and adopt a path toward true sustainability.”

Discover why climate disruption is not – at its core – an environmental or energy problem, and how your church or organization can change its culture and adopt a path toward true social, economic, and environmental sustainability.

To register for this important workshop, please visitwww.ecofaithrecovery/from-me-to-we, search for EcofaithRecovery or call 503-363-3660.

The plant was “the staple starch for the tribes throughout the northwest,” says Dr. David Lewis, Cultural Exhibits and Archives Manager and Tribe historian for the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde.   Many native peoples, including the Kalapuya, Chinook, Nez Perce, Cree and Blackfoot, dug up the bulbs in late spring and ground or baked them.  In those early days the plant blanketed the wetlands, grasslands and oak savannahs of the Pacific Northwest.  It was used as a sweetener, in salmon stews and as a valued item of trade.

“Tribal families took care to pass down the traditional harvesting sites across generations,” writes Dr. Susan Kephart, Willamette Professor of Biology in The Oregon Encyclopedia.  Kephart, who also serves as Scientific Advisor to the Pringle Creek Watershed Council, tells that camas saved the Lewis and Clark Expedition from near-starvation in 1805, when the Nez Perce shared the food with them.

Back then, the late spring flowers created fields of purple-blue, which from a distance resembled pools of blue water.  In Salem, these ‘pools’ can be seen at Bush Pasture Park and beneath the native oaks at the Oregon State Fairgrounds.

There aren’t many other places to see them.  “There are scattered fields in the valley that have camas, but few actual pristine environments,” Lewis says.  “Camas fields are endangered as more of the valley floor is plowed up and in agriculture.”

While before native peoples encouraged camas by setting fire to establish open meadows and prairie, those practices have largely ended.  As Lewis describes it, “The Kalapuya created the environment to make the camas thrive here, so it is a symptom of how well we cared for, and even created, the Willamette Valley as the agricultural center of the region.”

Native peoples, gardeners and Salem citizens alike are trying to bring camas back.  “We are working with many partners,” Lewis says, “to restore fields of camas in Eugene, Corvallis and other areas.  It’s a very important plant for its association with native culture and our history in the valley.”

Two species of camas and one hybred grow in Bush’s Pasture Park in Salem, according to Jon Christenson, Park & Gardens Committee Co-Chair of South Central Association of Neighbors (SCAN.)  SCAN has worked cooperatively with Dr. Kephart and South Salem High School IB Biology teacher at, Dottie Knecht, to help local high school students participate in a National Science Foundation study of camas.

There are at least two million camas blooming on Bush Pasture property as this paper goes to press, thanks to SCAN members and dedicated volunteers who have removed blackberries and English Ivy from the ancient camas habitat.

When the property was managed by the Asahel Bush family, the fields where flowers grew were not mowed until July 4, to protect the blossoms and ensure regermination.  The same land is today maintained by the City of Salem, which still times its mowing schedule to preserve the extensive camas meadow.

Lewis says that most Grand Rhonde tribal members practice digging the camas in the 21st Century.  They harvest the plants at Camas Prairie above Sweet Home, and at a field at the Reservation.   “We are working on restoring this traditional agricultural practice at the tribe and working on projects to restore Camas fields in the Willamette National forest.”

He would like to see research on the agricultural potential of camas.  “It is a valuable food plant and would go well in the newer environmentally conscious and greener diets that are healthier and better for people.”

The Salem Food Co-op is the first rung on what the Coop board members hope will be a ladder to an eventual store front.  It’s been slightly over a year since Cindy Kimball, Debra Edwards and Kerry Topel started meeting and discussing their dream of a Salem Food Coop – a member-owned cooperative food store that would provide local, fresh, non-GMO, pesticide –free, reasonably priced groceries to the people of Salem.   Since that time, they have gathered together an enthusiastic group of board members who have written mission and vision statements, adopted by-laws and a sourcing and selection policy, have taken on the food club, and are wrestling with a business plan.   They have a Web page, a Facebook page, and a brochure all sporting their colorful logo – the Oregon state capitol building ,built of vegetables.

All board decisions are made through consensus; all board members are passionate about food in their own individual ways, which makes for some lengthy discussions.  Some place the most value on locally-grown produce, to others, organic and GMO-free are of first importance. The board discusses the various merits of gluten-free pasta, vegetarian diets, and grass-fed meat and dairy.

How shall we define local?   Should bees be fed high-fructose corn syrup in the winter?

Sometimes the job seems overwhelming.  “So much of our energy goes into keeping the food club supplied, we don’t have as much time as we would like to focus on writing our business plan and finding investors” says Cindy Kimball.   Right now, the Co-op uses space donated twice a month by board members – but the situation is not ideal, as supplies and equipment need to be stored elsewhere due to space constraints, and room for refrigerated items is minimal.  Currently, The Salem Food Co-op provides staples once monthly, local produce twice monthly, and will begin selling some dairy products in May. “We need our own space in order to grow our business,” says Sue Stoner, board president, “but we aren’t making enough money with the customers we have right now to afford rent.  We’re stuck between a rock and a hard place.”

Even with the struggles inherent in starting a new business, Salem Food Coop board members are excited about the future.  Plans include not only a “brick and mortar” food and community center, but a mobile grocery store – a food truck to service the Salem neighborhoods determined to be “food deserts,” areas in which access to good, healthy food is difficult and the nearest grocery may be only a corner convenience store.

“Now is the right time for this business. Everyone we talk to is supportive and interested,” says Cindy.  Salem Food Coop members don’t see themselves as competing with established local stores such as Roth’s and LifeSource or the Salem farmer’s markets.  “More and more people are interested in eating healthfully and locally,” Debra Edwards says.   “If we grow our customer base, theirs will grow as well.“

The Salem Food Coop board is celebrating its one-year anniversary and all that has been accomplished so far.   Their Annual Meeting is scheduled for Tuesday May 21, at the Grand Theater, for members and the interested public.  The evening begins at 6:30 and everyone is welcome to enjoy a tasting of local food and beverages, to mingle with friends, meet the board and share ideas.    There will be a presentation “Planting our Local Roots” from 7-8 pm.  For more information find The Salem Food Coop on Facebook or at salemfoodcoop.org.

10 places to buy locally-grown Willamette Valley products in Salem
1. CSAs – Community Support Agriculture – weekly produce boxes available from many local growers.  Find them at www.ecovian.com/s/salem/csa
2. EZ Orchards
3. LifeSource Natural Foods
4. Minto Island Farm Stand
5. Pick your own farms.  Find them at www.pickyourown.org/ORsalem.htm
6. Roth’s Markets
7. Salem Food Coop
8. Salem Public Market
9. Salem Saturday Market
10. Wednesday Market

We hear a rumor that a summer Thursday Evening Market is in the works!

Restaurants that serve local foods
Ameadeus – opening in its new downtown location in May
Andaluz
Broken Bread
La Capitale
DaVinci’s
Drunken Cook
Gamberetti’s
Grand Vines
Rafn’s (opening soon)

We don’t mean to leave anyone out.  If you grow, market, or serve locally-grown food and drink in the Salem area, let us know.

Hartmann, described as a progressive national champion by the three local groups that organized the event, Marion Polk Move to Amend, Salem Progressive Film Series, and Oregon Peace Works, spoke about overreaching powers assumed by the Supreme Court in defiance of the constitution and read Article. III. Section. 2. directly from the Constitution to drive the point.

Thom Hartmann is a New York Times bestselling, Project Censored Award winning author and host of a nationally syndicated progressive radio talk show.   One  station that broadcast  his show, KPOJ in Portland, was recently changed by their owner, Clear Channel (a subsidiary of Bain Capital) and switched to an all-sports format.   During her interview, Zermer stated that many people were outraged over Clear’s decision to replace the progressive talk radio to Fox Sports and asked Hartman “Do you believe these people have any recourse, in light of the re-licensing of all Oregon radio stations next year?”  Hartman responded, “Perhaps.  But the FCC hasn’t been very aggressive about this.” He says that people can ask to put written statements about their dissatisfaction into the public file of KPOJ, but he doesn’t expect that will have much sway in whether the FCC re-licenses KPOJ.  Hartmann suggests that a better strategy is supporting community and independent radio.

When asked by Zermer if “community radio stations have a role in beating back the tide of a few corporations managing the content of what people hear on the radio?” Hartmann’s response was, “Yes. Emphatically.” And that he felt local programming was the most important programming, in addition to having syndicated national progressive programming picked up by local independent stations, explaining that it would help bring back balance to what people hear on the radio.

Hartman further explained that the government regulated the movie and television industry back in the 1950s and 60s by requiring those entities to offer a certain amount of local and non-owned content, which is not true for radio.  Hartmann stated that if the FCC and Congress would take this on… “you’d see a renaissance in American media and progressive media would be a part of it.”

During Zermer’s interview, Hartmann also spoke about the importance of overturning the 2010 Supreme Court decision known as “Citizens United.”  Citizens United declared corporations to be people and money to be speech.  Overturning this decision through Constitutional amendment would firmly establish that money is not speech, and that human beings, not corporations, are persons entitled to constitutional rights.   Hartmann further challenged the received wisdom that the Constitution gives the Supreme Court the right of judicial review and the power to rule on the constitutionality of laws.

Although no longer heard on KPOJ, Hartmann has a daily independent television program, The Big Picture, syndicated by FreeSpeech TV, and  shown by hundreds of community TV stations.

CCTV rebroadcast of his talk can be seen at the following times.
May 16th 8:00pm
May 18th 3:00pm
May 20th 7:00pm
May 21st 8:00pm
May 26th 1:00pm
May 31st 4:00pm
June 1st 5:00pm
June 4th 8:00pm
June 6th 8:00pm
June 8th 5:00pm

The process that led to the cutting of the trees began in 2010, when the City’s Public Works staff recommended that the five trees to the north of the bank at 302 State Street be removed prior to a repaving project.  City staff concern was that the trees caused extensive damage to the sidewalks and streets.

However, Salem’s Shade Tree Committee – a group of Parks and Recreation Advisory Board members and citizen volunteers – recommended then that cutting be postponed, and in summer 2012, the trees’ roots were simply pruned by the City to relieve their impacts on the sidewalk.

Photo by Will Bragg

U.S. Bank still wanted the Japanese Zelkovas taken out and asked the city twice in 2012 to allow this.  The main reason, says Ryan Allbritton, regional president of the bank, was the tripping hazard the trees posed by buckling sidewalks.  “The biggest issue is our client’s safety, our customers and citizens walking on the sidewalk.”

In fact Edward Fisher, risk manager for the City of Salem, reports that there has been one complaint of tripping and falling on the sidewalk outside the U.S. Bank branch since 2007.  Others might have occurred, but not been reported.  The city takes such concerns seriously, Fisher says.  “Slipping and falling, especially with an elderly person, can take that individual quickly from an independent life into assisted living.  It can be quite serious.”

The two 2012 requests by U.S. Bank were considered by the Shade Tree Advisory Committee, which balanced pro-cut arguments (that trees obscured the sight lines to a historic building and led to cracked sidewalks), with preservation arguments (considering the value of mature trees and the wishes of 22 downtown businesspeople to retain them).  It elected, both times, to keep the Zelkovas where they were.

But City law says that recommendations of the Shade Tree Committee, “shall be considered by, but shall not be binding upon” the person who makes the final decision, which is Public Works Director for the City of Salem, Peter Fernandez.  In March 2013, Fernandez authorized the trees’ removal.

He was reluctant to do this, he says.  “I usually do not change the committee’s recommendation, but in this case the code clearly gave the property owner the right to remove the trees.”  His decision was the result of a careful reading of Chapter 86 of the Salem Revised Codes (SRC), which are the rules that govern the city.

The specific points that played into Fernandez’ decision are found in SRC 86.130, he says, especially that, “Trees shall not be planted in a location which would obscure significant architectural features,” “Only trees of a columnar nature or open limb structure… may be planted”, and “Tree branches shall be at least seven feet from any building.”

“In the end,” Fernandez reports, “this was a matter of law and not of opinion.”

Protestors outside the bank on April 9 were not convinced.  They maintained that the SRC’s language (“trees shall not be planted…”) refers to vegetation that has not yet been inserted into the ground.  Applying these rules to existing trees, instead of those yet to be planted, one opponent said, makes no sense.

Woody Dukes, a certified arborist who joined the City of Salem tree crew in 1993, told how he’d pruned the trees above protestor’s heads many times.  It would be a simple matter, he added, for further pruning “to get the required clearance from the building.”  He encouraged passersby to sign petitions to ask Salem’s City Council to stop the removal of the trees and to create an appeals process for future tree removal permits.

Also protesting was Claudia Howells, who expressed concern about how the Shade Tree Committee’s recommendations were overruled “without further public input.”  Howells said, if she wanted the trees in front of her house taken down “I’d have a much more difficult time.”  Her reference was to the sense of some others outside the bank, that Allbritton’s stature in the community influenced the final decision.
“The City of Salem treats all citizens and business owners with respect,” Fernandez says. “All are provided the due process that they are entitled to.  The decision to allow removal of the trees was based on the provisions of SRC Chapter 86, not on who had made the request.”

Public Works receives frequent requests for tree removal, and each is decided on its merits.   When he had to render a final decision on the matter, Fernandez says, he “realized that the bank, in fact, had a legal right to remove the trees.”

Understanding that his decision would be controversial, and because of the long history of the issue, Fernandez wrote a detailed account of the issue and a policy analysis, which all members of the Shade Tree Committee and City Council received.*

Speaking to a group on April 13, Ward 1 Councilor Chuck Bennett said Fernandez believed he had only one true option.  He’d spoken with Fernandez two nights prior to the scheduled cutting, and related that Fernandez “thought it still possible… that US Bank was rethinking [its] decision [to cut.]”

The matter appeared open until a half hour before the machinery arrived the afternoon of April 11, when Allbritton told Salem Weekly that he had the authority to stop the cutting but, “at this point in the process, no, that’s not going to happen.”

At six p.m., three of the five Japanese Zelkovas were cut down by a tree service. Two protestors and five policemen were present.  The police remained all the hours the procedure lasted.

Many describe themselves as jarred by what Bennett calls, “the sort of suddenness of the decision, the suddenness of the tree’s removal.”  Bennett says the “situation with the trees on State” point to a flaw in city code.  “Right now, if my understanding is correct… none of the trees downtown are in a particularly safe situation if the adjacent owner wants to see their removal.”  He adds, “We don’t have the current criteria to protect these trees, and that’s got me worried.”

The day following the cutting, David Rosales, owner of La Capitale and Andaluz restaurants, entered the bank to protest.  Observers say he knocked over a table.  Police were called; Rosales was arrested.  When we contacted his father, Pedro Rosales, the elder Rosales wished to go on record.

Owner of La Margarita Restaurant in downtown Salem for 28 years, Rosales told us;  “My family has three restaurants downtown.  We love downtown, which is why we concentrate all our energy in it.  Instead of going backwards, our family wants downtown to move forward.”

Rosales described his actions on la capitale’s facebook page on April 15: “As a semi-public figure I took a stand on something I believe in: Salem and downtown.”

Since the incident, he wrote, “we have seen overwhelming support from our community as well as an increase in dialogue regarding the city process… and the role outside companies have in deciding what our Salem looks like.”

The two remaining Japanese Zelkovas have birds’ nests in their branches.  These two will be cut down once the chicks have fledged.

At least two members of the City Council have voiced an interest in revamping the code.  Bennett suggests the public should, “express concern over what happened, and the expectation that there be a code in place that would give a better opportunity for public input in the removal of major street trees.”

Kasia Quillinan is a former Salem City Councilmember, a member of the Shade Tree Committee and serves on the Parks and Recreation Board.  “Given what occurred,” she says, “we need to look at the process more carefully, and I think City Council will do that.  We need to look at code provisions more carefully.  Currently most of the control is in the hands of the owners of historic buildings; we need to review that.”

all agendas, minutes and reference material is available at the Parking Task Force webpage;

http://www.cityofsalem.net/CityCouncil/BoardsAndCommissions/Pages/ParkingTaskForce.aspx