Cedar Mill Farmers Market: You Spoke, We Listened
Last September, we asked market shoppers to complete an online survey to provide feedback about the market. We were especially interested in ideas to make the market accessible, inclusive, equitable, and inviting to everyone.
The respondents included folks who identify as (in alphabetical order) Asian American, Black, Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander, and White. There were both Hispanic/Latino and non-Hispanic respondents. Most (87%) were women.
We received lovely comments and helpful feedback in the survey. The market responded immediately to some suggestions. For example, based on one shopper’s request, the market added two parking spots for folks with disabilities.
The survey results included excellent suggestions for new kinds of food items to add to the market, such as Asian vegetables, wine, seafood, dry beans, pasta, nut butters, dried fruits and vegetables, cheese, and prepared foods like frozen soup. Respondents also suggested adding more options for locally produced non-food items like fiber and yarn, ornamental plants, household items, and kids’ crafts. The market manager and directors work hard to find new vendors during the off-season, but please let us know of potential local vendors for these products.
Additionally, survey respondents requested adding more diverse music, including classical piano, a reggae band, and music specifically for kids. We are excited to hear from musicians of all kinds to add more range to the market.
Each summer, the market provides free space to a limited number of community and sustainability groups, and we are grateful for their participation. Suggestions for additional booths in these categories included food banks, the Humane Society, scouts, and wellness organizations. Organizations interested in participating can contact us at [email protected].
“We sincerely thank all who responded to our survey, and we are working to implement the many ideas that fit the market mission of providing locally grown produce, food cooked by local chefs, and an inclusive and welcoming atmosphere,” says Market manager Karen Carroll.
The Cedar Mill Farmers Market will open on Saturday, May 4 for our 2024 summer season! We are excitedly putting together a volunteer team this year and putting the call out for musicians. Please contact us at [email protected] if you are interested in joining us! We look forward to seeing you on opening day and beyond.
Beaverton Farmers Market
February 3–March, 10 am–1:30 pm; April–November, 8:30 am–1:30 pm; SW Hall Blvd. between 3rd and 5th Streets
While most of our farms won’t make their appearance until later in the season, you can count on Riverland Family Farms to start on day one. Established by three brothers who took over Denison Farms, you will always find their stall filled with fresh seasonal, certified organic produce.
Another market veteran who will be with us on opening day is Winters Farms. In fact, they have been with us since we opened in 1987, making them one of our “Heirloom Vendors.” This multi-generational farm grows a great variety of fruits and vegetables, produces jams, jellies and honey, and will keep market goers stocked with fresh eggs from their Troutdale chickens.
Santos Family Farm raises a variety of chickens, ducks, and turkeys both for eggs and meat. With the Lunar New Year coming up, they are featuring their meat ducks. They raise Pekin ducks which have a wonderful mild flavor and delicate texture. Santos Farm raises their ducks on pasture, giving them lots of room to roam and swim.
Lots more information about opening day vendors in the newsletter! Sign up to get their email updates here. Visit the website here.
Sunset Credit Union Asks: Are You Taking Advantage of These Tax-shelter Accounts?
Here’s a quick overview of two of the most common retirement plan IRAs, traditional and Roth, and how they compare. With an IRA (traditional or Roth) you are investing money and letting it grow until retirement. You generally can’t withdraw money without penalty until age 59½.
Traditional plans are sometimes also referred to as “regular” plans. One key difference between Roth and traditional plans is how contributions are taxed. You can invest pre-tax income in traditional accounts. So one advantage of traditional accounts is that when you contribute money, you can generally write off the contribution as a tax deduction, thereby lowering your tax bill. One disadvantage of traditional plans is that you pay taxes on the money as you withdraw it.
In Roth IRAs, unlike traditional IRAs, contributions are never tax deductible. But the money you contribute to your Roth IRA can be withdrawn tax free at any time.
Here’re some advantages to a Roth IRA:
- You get tax-free growth and withdrawal.
- You can withdraw contributions at any time.
- You can contribute as long as you’re working, regardless of age.
Sunset Credit Union is open to anyone who lives, works, worships or attends school in Washington County. Because everyone’s investment needs are different, if you have questions about which IRA is best for you, please call Debbie at Sunset Credit Union at 503-643-1335.
Aging With Advocacy
After 30 years working in healthcare, local Cedar Mill native Lisa Stember shifts her focus to being an Aging Life Care Manager®. In her past work as a medical speech pathologist, Lisa regularly saw the need for people to have an advocate when navigating a medical event or the aging process.
Aging Life Care Professionals® are experts in the field of aging and disability. We help seniors and their families navigate the challenges of aging and make positive, informed decisions about the care of their loved ones. We are strategic planners and have a holistic approach to aging with key knowledge areas that include crisis intervention, housing, health and disability, advocacy, family legal, financial, and local resources.
Lisa is especially knowledgeable and passionate in dementia, acquired brain injuries, and end of life care. Find out more about Lisa and her skills here, or just give her a call at 971-361-6183.
Vibrant Senior Living at Anthology of Beaverton
There’s no need to settle for less in retirement when you can indulge in a future filled with exquisite living spaces, first-class amenities, and gourmet cuisine. You’ll feel like you’re residing in a hotel. Our upscale community frees you up to continue your life story in style. Let’s connect over a tour: call 971-251-2564.
Please visit the Anthology Senior Living website for more information.
Benefits of Organizing Through Grief
Wednesday, February 7, 4–5 pm, free, via Zoom
Join us for a transformative virtual event with special guest Angie Freyer, professional home organizer and occupational therapist, as we delve into the powerful journey of organizing through grief. In times of loss and sorrow, finding a sense of order in our lives can be an incredibly healing and cathartic process.
For questions please contact: [email protected].
Cedar Mill Real Estate Market: Housing Market Trends
By Jan Dempsey, Realtor, Windermere Realty Group
There is a best time of year to buy a home in Portland every year. There is also a best time of the year to sell a home in Portland every year. This repeated seasonal impact remains consis
