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Twisted Succulents

11/21/2022

1. How did you choose this area? What are your favorite things about this area?
My husband and I are both originally from Oregon. After he retired from the Air Force in 2014, we moved back to the area with our 2 girls to be closer to family. His family is from Harrisburg and mine is from Leaburg, up the McKenzie River. The weather is definitely milder than Spokane, where we moved from. It's nice being closer to family. I enjoy dressing up with my daughter for the Scandinavian Festival.

2. What is your background and how did you get into what you do?
My degree is Stage Management in the Theatre, which is no where close to what I do now! My mom has always had a green thumb and my first experience with succulents was when I pulled all the leaves off my mom's jade plant and used them as "money." In my defense I was about 5 years old and to my surprise, the plant grew back. When we moved back to the area, I went to work at my in-law's nursery. There I learned more about plants and found myself drawn to the succulents and how different they are from "regular" plants.

3. How would you describe your business?
Unique succulents from around the world, grown locally with passion.

4. What makes your business unique?
I import and propagate rare and unique succulents from around the world that many growers don't have access too. I specialize in growing tender succulents, which are ones that can't take a freeze. While the tender succulents require a little more attention, I focus on them is because of the different varieties, colors, shapes, sizes and textures which you don't see with many other plants.

5. What are your goals for your business?
I hope to have more open, in-person hours at the greenhouse and teach some classes and fun workshops with succulents.

6. Are there any local causes you support?
Scandinavian Festival JCHS Robotics Team (2018-2022)

7. Do you belong to any local organizations?
Oregon Women for Agriculture (Lane County).

8. What is the best way for people to reach you?
I can be reached by email, phone or text. Events and new products are posted on Facebook or Instagram. Email: twistedsucculents@gmail.com Phone/Text: 509-389-1993 Facebook: www.facebook.com/TwistedSucculents Instagram: @twistedsucculents

9. Which social media do you prefer?
Facebook and Instagram.

Fern Ridge Events Covering Entire Fern Ridge Community and Surrounding Areas

11/17/2022

1. How did you choose this area? What are your favorite things about this area?
I chose to live in the Fern Ridge area and it has always felt like HOME to me. I love the people and the close community feeling I get.

2. What is your background and how did you get into what you do?
My background is mostly administrative work. After we moved here I became involved with coordinating events for a couple different organizations, and I realized quickly how much I enjoyed it!

3. How would you describe your business?
Event Coordination & Promotion Services. I help you make a memorable event.

4. What makes your business unique?
I have experience as a Vendor, a Manager, and a Coordinator. This experience has shown me all the little details that go into a successful event, and I learn something new every time!

5. What do you hope for your business in the next 5 years?
I hope to create Event Bulletins around the area that people will recognize as the resource for local events.

6. Are there any local causes you support?
I support any local cause that helps people and small businesses.

7. Do you belong to any local organizations?
I am a member of the Elmira Grange, which I have been coordinating events for the last 8 years.

8. What is the best way for people to reach you?
I can be reached via email fernridgedvents@gmail.com or phone 541-833-0370

9. Which social media do you prefer?
I use Facebook and Instagram, I am starting an email newsletter to stay in contact with clients, supporters and friends!

Ritch Tax Service in Monroe

11/10/2022

My family and I had the pleasure of working with Nick when we moved to Monroe. He helped us with many things including our taxes. It felt great talking to him as he was very knowledgeable and explained things in a way we could understand. We met at the Business Association of Monroe. Not only did he help us with our taxes he also introduced me to local businesses. Below is our interview of Nick and his business. Here is a retelling of the information he shared.

1. How did you choose this area? What are your favorite things about this area?
My family and I moved to Monroe in December 2018 and have loved every moment since. We were drawn to Monroe because of its quiet charm and were blessed to find our dream home where we plan to stay for many years to come. Some of our favorite things to do in the area include short drives to the coast, bike rides around town, weekend visits to Christmas Junction for a chat and hot cocoa, and going out for a family dinner at Benny’s or Long Branch.

2. What is your background and how did you get into what you do?
’ve always had an interest in math and figuring out complex puzzles so a career in tax preparation felt like the perfect fit. I started working as a Licensed Tax Preparer in 2014 for a bookkeeping and tax service in Eugene where I gained valuable knowledge and experience. I became a Licensed Tax Consultant in 2017 and later that year became designated as an Enrolled Agent by the IRS, at which time I started my own tax preparation business.

3. How would you describe your business?
I like to say I provide tax preparation with a personal touch - and one way I strive to achieve that is by providing services both in person or virtually based on your preference. For those local, I can come to your home or business. I also host meetings in my home office, over a video call, or phone call. In addition to tax preparation and consulting for individuals, businesses, and trusts/estates, I also offer bookkeeping services, tax planning, and tax audit representation.

4. What makes your business unique?
The tax industry has continued to push toward mega corporations providing tax services to the masses where there is no focus on the individuals being served. I aim to provide more personalized services and have availability outside of tax season. If you get a letter, you had a life event that stopped you from being able to file on time, or even just need some advice, it's important to be able to get help after April 15th.

I am also flexible in client communication styles. I have embraced technology in my business. When the pandemic started, some clients were uncomfortable meeting in person and my online client portal provided an opportunity to conduct business completely virtually in a safe and secure manner. The online portal allows clients to upload documents, e-sign, e-pay, and provides secure communication from the comfort of their home. Clients can also schedule in person, phone and video appointments with me via their portal. I also continue to work with those clients that preferred to meet in person or were not technologically savvy, and I plan to continue to offer a choice: remote, in-person or hybrid options to clients.

5. What do you hope for your business in the next 5 years?
I hope to continue to provide a high level of service while growing my client base sustainably, and because of the wonderful support of my local clients, I hope to expand into a dedicated office space here in Monroe as I currently work from an office in my home.

6. Are there any local causes you support?
I’m very invested in seeing our small community flourish and believe the best way to do that is by volunteering my time and services with organizations that support our local artists and businesses. I currently serve as a board member and Treasurer for the Monroe Arts Association (MAA) and I am the Treasurer for the Business Association of Monroe (BAM.) I have been with these associations since their inception and am excited to see them continue to grow.

7. Do you belong to any local organizations?
I am a member of the Oregon Association of Independent Accountants. Locally, I’ve had the honor of serving as a Monroe City Councilor since 2021, where I am the chair of the Finance Committee and served as the chair of the Budget Committee the past two budget cycles.

8. What is the best way for people to reach you?
My website www.ritchtaxservice.com allows for clients to sign up for a secure online portal for remote communication and document sharing on the login page. I can be reached by phone at 541-870-2371 or by email at nick@ritchtaxservice.com as well.

9. Which social media do you prefer?
You can find my business Ritch Tax Service on Facebook. I post updates and important information throughout tax season. My facebook page is at www.facebook.com/ritchtaxservice

GLAMR Boutique by Bre in Monroe

10/31/2022

1. How did you choose this area? What are your favorite things about this area?
My husband and I grew up in Montana. We moved to Eugene in 2013 for my job as a retail manager. After the birth of our first child in 2016, we decided to purchase our first home and move to Junction City. We loved that home and neighborhood but wanted to find somewhere that reminded us a little more of home and gave us some property and privacy to raise our family. We moved to Monroe in November 2020. We love the community, school and small town feel.

2. What is your background and how did you get into what you do?
I worked for a retail clothing company for just shy of 10 years. I loved being able to use my creative touch to design outfits and help people feel good about themselves. Once I had my son, I struggled with the commitment of a 50+ hour work week and being able to raise the family I had always dreamed of. With the help of my husband, we were able to make the fortunate switch to me being a stay at home mom. I am so grateful for the time I get to focus on my family and our future. Once our kiddos got a little older, I started searching for a way to help provide and take some pressure off of our finances. After a few trial and error jobs, I decided to take the risk and start my own boutique. I missed working with fashion and was able to work creatively with a flexible schedule for our family.

3. How would you describe your business?
GLAMR Boutique is a women’s clothing boutique.

4. What makes your business unique?
I take inspiration from deep rooted music influence. I choose pieces with a country, rock and boho vibe. I find pieces I would love both on and off the stage.

5. What do you hope for your business in the next 5 years?
I hope to be able to provide a sole source of income for our family and allow the financial freedom that comes with that. I hope the business may become a well known, local favorite with the eventual goal of owning a full time store location in a high traffic area. I would love to be more involved in the community.

6. Are there any local causes you support?
Being relatively new to this area, I am learning. I have recently been more involved in the grade school and volunteering weekly. We even got to coach my son’s soccer team this year!

7. Do you belong to any local organizations?
I am the lead vocalist for a local cover band, CODE RED as well.

8. What is the best way for people to reach you?
You can contact me through my website at www.GLAMR.shop, or you can email me at j.breana90@yahoo.com

9. Which social media do you prefer?
Facebook or Instagram, GLAMR Boutique by Bre, @glamr_boutiquebybre

448 Fitness in Junction City

10/25/2022

I have had the luxury of working out at 448 Fitness for over 1 year and love it. I came from 24 Fitness in Santa Rosa, CA and would never go back. Using an independent facility is now my preference. Chris and Jo and the rest of the team really know how to make me feel like family. 448 Fitness is right downtown. Crazy thing is I always find a parking spot. Every once in a while I will take a walk through the streets and I always find something new. I interviewed Chris (owner) and Jo (manager) about their business and here is here is a retelling of the information they shared.

1. How did you choose this area? What are your favorite things about this area?
Chris and I had been doing CrossFit together for about 5 years when we decided to try out the gym in Junction City. It immediately became our home gym. We loved the people and the small town community spirit. We both grew up in tiny rural towns and felt like JC had the best of both worlds. When the building became available we jumped at the chance to start 448 Fitness.

2. What is your background and how did you get into what you do?
Both of us have always been athletes, competing in highschool, rec leagues, college and CrossFit competitions. Our passion is health and wellness, and we are focused on supporting those things within the community. Chris has a background in nutrition and my training and certifications are with CrossFit.

3. How would you describe your business?
448 Fitness is a family owned, community minded small business. We are dedicated to providing a space for folks of all fitness levels to train. We have traditional gym and cardio equipment, as well as Olympic lifting, CrossFit, and boxing equipment.

4. What makes your business unique?
We are a women owned and led business. We are the proud home of CHAOS CrossFit. We have a thriving senior fitness community!

5. What do you hope for your business in the next 5 years?
In the next 5 years we would love to expand into a larger fitness and sports facility. We have big dreams of a basketball court! We also plan on continuing to improve this facility and equipment in the meantime. We are very committed to taking good care of our current members who were so loyal and instrumental to our business’ survival during the last few years.

6. Are there any local causes you support?
Function 4 Junction
Scandinavian Festival
Lions Club
JC Local Aid
Aurek Anderson (local pro boxer/ gym member)
Evolve (9/10 yrs girls club softball team)

7. Do you belong to any local organizations?
Not yet.

8. What is the best way for people to reach you?
Stop in and see us! Check our website 448fitness.com for hours and info as well.

9. Which social media do you prefer?
Facebook.

Falling Oaks Farm in Junction City

10/17/2022

Falling Oaks is a well situated farm on Territorial Highway in Junction City. Their quaint, friendly store hosts treasures from local artists. I was greeted by April and her son, Alex, who himself is a budding entrepreneur with a mobile detailing service. Several red barns dot the property while trees and gardens spill out across the landscape. I met with April, who is 4th generation on this farm. Here is a retelling of the information she shared.

1. How long have you been in business?
Our family bought the property in the 1940s. It has always been a working farm raising cattle and poultry. We started raising pigs about ten years ago when our son became interested in 4H and breeding pigs. The new barn was erected four years ago and the farm stand/gift shop was opened two years ago.

2. How did you choose this area?
My grandfather worked at a mill in Arkansas and the company moved him to open another in Springfield. They chose this farm to live and commute from.

3. What are your favorite things about this area?
I love heading off to Florence and Newport to enjoy the beach. I enjoy spending time with friends and family as well as the folks at Kings Grace church. We also love visiting and touring other local farms.

4. What is your background and how did you get into what you do?
When my family first came here, they had cows and had a huge chicken farm producing eggs for local stores back in the late 50's early 60's (was even published/featured in a regional magazine article). As my dad and uncle grew up, they married and moved onto the farm and built their homes here. That was before the EFU land use laws forbid additional housing structures. I grew up here and spent many weekends riding ATCs around the property with my cousins, playing and harvesting hay every summer. I owned a gift basket company in the past and we use that to create gifts for customers in our gift shop. I have a professional background in the financial industry and financial software. My husband has a history in water treatment and is currently working in accounting for a local credit union.

5. How would you describe your business?
We support local vendors and artists by selling their products through our store. If our customers need something, we make every effort to find it and carry it in our store. Every Saturday we sell our yummy cinnamon rolls which are a customer favorite. Our meat is also very popular which is why we created our CSA beef/pork boxes. Although we are not a certified organic farm, we work to do everything as natural as possible. This year we planted raspberries, marionberries and boysenberries and the year before was a variety of apple trees. Currently we are focused on humanely raised animals for meat, fresh eggs, baked goods and spices.

6. What makes your business unique?
We have built lasting relationships with our customers and community. We’ve also created great relations with our vendors and competitors. It is essential to work together to educate people about farming in our community. We have been attending neighboring farm tours as well as visit other farms when traveling. We enjoy learning as much as we can about various topics relating to humane animal raising, new crops, and niche farming. We have found most farmers are eager and willing to share what they have learned. We participate in the OSU Extension Small Farms Program and attend workshops and tours they put on throughout the year.

7. What do you hope for your business in the next 5 years?
We will continue to learn and grow and find the areas that we can be successful and contribute to the community. We have created a gathering space and hope to have small gatherings as we go forward.

8. Are there any local causes you support?

Lane County 4-H
Oregon Women in Agriculture (Lane County)
Donate to Junction City High School and local school activities, clubs, and sports
Donate to Bags of Love whenever possible – a great organization providing essentials to children in our community. Bagsofloveinc.org

9. What is the best way for people to reach you?
Come by our store Friday 10am to 4pm, Saturday 10am to 4pm and Sunday 12pm to 4pm now through Christmas or call 541-740-0819 to make an appointment.
(Store is open Saturdays from March/April through Christmas each year with additional days during the late fall/Holidays)
www.fallingoaksfarm.com
Falling Oaks Farm Stand | Facebook
Matt & April Givens (@fallingoaksfarm) • Instagram photos and videos

No Regrets Farm in Bellfountain

10/10/2022

The No Regrets Farm is located about 5 minutes from downtown Monroe in beautiful Bellfountain. I met with Lainey, who along with her partner Sean moved to the farm in 2018. There are many farms in our area but none are doing Goat Yoga or Goat Happy Hour. There is something so peaceful about goats. The views are also very scenic and helps aid in a relaxing experience not found elsewhere. Here is a retelling of the information she shared.

1. How long have you been in business?
We bought our farm sanctuary in Monroe in 2018. We moved from Albany where we started Goat Yoga in 2016. We have 10 goats, 7 chickens, 1 Rooster named Q-Tip, 2 Pigs, and 3 goat guardian dogs. Taken directly from the website: The Original Goat Yoga has ten locations all over the USA. Our Mission is to farm happiness by providing; 1. A joyful experience that improves mental and physical health through the healing powers of nature and animals. 2. Provide economic development of rural communities and family farms throughout the world through agritourism.

2. How did you choose this area?
We were living in Albany and as soon as we came around the corner on Dawson and saw that barn sitting on top of the bluff, it was love at first sight. It is an unincorporated area in Monroe named Bellfountain. We absolutely loved the views. Perfect for getting outside and soaking in the scenery and bonding with animals. .

3. What are your favorite things about this area?
Our favorite winery is Bluebird Cellars right around the corner (we often pour a glass after Yoga).
Long Timber Brewery
Let’s Talk About Monroe, Facebook Group (great way to meet neighbors). Our neighbors have helped us out on the farm several times due to husband illness. Petraglass stained glass works.
We also love the ice cream at Dairymart.

4. What makes your business unique?
Goat Yoga & Goat Happy Hour! Nuff said. I’m pretty sure all my neighbors think we’re crazy, but it’s just getting outside, bonding with animals and disconnecting from stress.

5. How would you describe your business?
Our tagline is Farming Happiness! Our focus is to help improve the mental health of each human that steps on this farm by sharing the loving goats, dogs and the rest of the animals for people to bond with and also the most beautiful views in Benton County. Not only is it available to the public, but we also provide private events for Corporate Health & Wellness, Birthdays, Reunions etc. We’ve done events for companies like Google, Facebook, Nike, Intel, Adidas and many more!

6. What do you hope for your business in the next 5 years?
We would like to create 2 glamping tents with decks and renovate that magical barn and call it The Goatel. Create a U-Pick flower operation that will launch in Spring of 2023..

7. Are there any local causes you support?
South Benton County Advisory Committee Boardmember
Monroe Dragons Highschool

8. What is the best way for people to reach you?
info@goatyoga.net
888-992-GOAT
Website WHY & What is Goat Yoga?: https://goatyoga.net/goat-therapy-animal-assisted-therapy/
Facebook No Regrets Farm Sanctuary : https://www.facebook.com/noregretsfarm
Facebook Goat Yoga: https://www.facebook.com/goatyoga/
Instagram No Regrets Farm Sanctuary:
https://www.instagram.com/noregretsfarmsanctuary/?hl=en
Instagram Goat Yoga: https://www.instagram.com/goatyoga/?hl=en
Email: infor@goatyoga.net
Reservations for Goat Yoga & Goat Happy Hour:
https://headquarters.goatyoga.net/events/

Bullets and Butterflies Design Co. in Junction City

10/6/2022

1. How long have you been in business?
I started creating tees (and more) in 2020 at the beginning of the Covid pandemic. It's started as a way to make extra money and keep myself busy, but to my suprised joy it took off! Before I knew it I had built a good client base and had a steady stream of business.

2. How did you choose this area?
My husband is originally from the area, roughly about a year and a half ago we decided it was time to move back and be close to family.

3. What are your favorite things about this area?
I love the small town vibes and friendly people. I also love Tin Sing, Kento's food truck, the Beer Station, Nina's Pony Espresso, Jersey's Bar, and GunRunner Arms.

4. What is your background and how did you get into what you do?
My background is actually in health care but I have always had a creative side and loved all things art. The Covid quarantines gave me time that I hadn't had before to explore my creative side.

5. How would you describe your business?
I make custom clothing and accessories bringing creative designs to my customers at affordable prices.

6. What makes your business unique?
I strive to make sure each order is exactly to the customers liking even if that means I have to redo an order and I keep my prices low so that my products are affordable to everyone.

7. What do you hope for your business in the next 5 years?
My youngest daughter has started creating her own designs and building a customer base of her own, I would like to see that continue to grow for her and my hopes would be for the business to grow into a store front in the next 5 years.

8. Are there any local causes you support?
I sponsor children through the Corvallis Boys & Girls club for different sports and I am a platinum sponsor for the JC Varisty Cheer team.

9. What is the best way for people to reach you?
Calls, emails, and texts are always welcome! Check out my Facebook page to see designs, specials, or message me!
Phone: 346-337-0701
Email: B.butterfliesdesignco@gmail.com
Facebook page: https://m.facebook.com/101157698318798/

Willamette Properties Group in Junction City

9/29/2022

Downtown Junction City houses a family group of Realtors known as Willamette Properties Group. WPG is led by owners and real estate agents Tosh and Lisanne Dickenson. WPG also employs their daughter, Cheyenne as a licensed agent, along with Matt Rossiter, (Matt greeted me warmly as I arrived at their office.) Daisy Ramirez, MacKenzie Solton, Biff Sessner & Daniel Emanuel. WPG is actively involved in supporting several nonprofits and as such wear many hats in the community. I met with Lisanne to discuss the history and future of their business. Below is a retelling of the information she shared.

1. How long have you been in business?
I began practicing real estate in 2007. Prior to becoming an agent, I taught firearms classes throughout Oregon and worked in business administration.. Tosh worked in management for a local RV company. In 2011, Tosh decided to change careers and join me as a licensed Realtor. Thus began Willamette Properties Group in 2012.

2. How did you choose this area?
We were married on our property in Cheshire 25 years ago. Being so close to Junction City, it was the logical place to set up shop. There was only one other practicing agent in town at that time, so we knew that there was a need. Junction City had been growing, and being able to serve this community in so many ways made it an easy choice!

3. What are your favorite things about this area?
Junction City’s rich history. (From trains to a huge opera house and much, much more.)

Max Porter’s Coffeehouse for lunch and good coffee.
Various shops, from antique vendors to firearm stores and many more!
Function 4 Junction (I am a member of the Board)
Kid’s Pet Parade. (This is a must see!)
Scandinavian Festival
Hometown football games and athletics.
Habitat for Humanity
The Beer Station with food carts and great drinks.
And most of all, the amazing people that live here!

4. What is your background and how did you get into what you do?
When Tosh and I met I was a paramedic student and Tosh was a captain at the local fire department. He was teaching my required firefighter classes. He was amazing and we quickly became a great team, so we married in 1997 and bought our first home. Our experience with that was painful and disappointing and we knew that I could treat people better and do it with respect, knowledge, integrity and a passion for people. I began to take classes after being encouraged by my wonderful husband and a Realtor friend. A few years later, Tosh joined me in the business. We both have passions for helping people find the home of their dreams!.

5. How would you describe your business?
We are very family oriented. Despite the pandemic, we sold many homes in 2020 & 2021, totaling millions of dollars in sales. We pride ourselves on our ability to connect with families and find the perfect homes for them. We love it when clients say, “what do you mean I’m not your only client?

6. What makes your business unique?
We are very active in this community and share business contacts for folks needing services. We have a tried and true list of great contractors nearby. We utilize some unbelievable lead generation software that allows us to give hundreds of leads to our brokers, In turn, this means that more and more people are benefiting from having experienced, caring Realtors.

7. What do you hope for your business in the next 5 years?
Like most businesses, growth is imperative. We are always on the lookout for smart, positive, team players. Current licensed Realtors or those that are working towards their real estate license are always welcome to reach out and discuss joining our team.

8. Are there any local causes you support?
Function 4 Junction, board member
Donations to the high school for various classes
A community Facebook group with 3.2K members. (“We are Junction City!”)
Animal rescues

9. What is the best way for people to reach you?
We are always available. Contact us through our website, wpgoregon.com, social media or text 541-403-8929. We’ll always respond in a timely manner!

Lilliputopia Organic Farm & Gift Store in Monroe

9/21/2022

Tucked away on a neighborhood street in Monroe lives the small farm and store of Lilliputopia. You may see their sign and flag on the corner across from Monroe’s library inviting you to visit Friday through Sunday. Today I met with Eliza Mason, owner with her husband Thorin Nielson of Lilliputopia to ask some questions. Here is a retelling of the information she shared.

Questions & Answers
1. How long have you been in business?
We bought the 4 acre farm in 2017 and opened the store in 2020. The farm's trial run lasted one year and we donated all of the produce to the food pantry in Monroe. We started Monroe farmers market in 2019. Once Covid hit we put all our energy into the store. The store was originally a chicken coop. We worked hard to restore it.

2. How did you choose this area?
We looked at many different farms near Portland but fell in love with the Monroe property when it became available. We jumped on it and the rest is history.

3. What are your favorite things about this area?
We both really enjoy the beauty of our area. When we have time we get to enjoy the nature of Alsea Falls and Finley Wildlife Refuge. We also like being a part of the rural communities nearby.

4. What is your background and how did you get into what you do?
I moved to Monroe from North Carolina after obtaining my BS in Molecular Biology and PhD in Bacterial Genetics. I also volunteered through the WWOOF program to learn about farming in several different climates.

5. How would you describe your business?
We are a tiny farm that only sells organic produce and handmade gifts from local vendors and growers. We focus on sustainability through growing and selling wonderful organic food while promoting community and fostering beneficial relationships.

6. What makes your business unique?
Our farm practices dry farming using little to no irrigation. Summer crops often have less fungal issues as well as more flavor and nutrition.

7. What do you hope for your business in the next 5 years?
The maturation of trees will allow for more fruit than they have had previously. Also, new business strategies like You-Pick, events, classes or demonstrations.

8. Are there any local causes you support?
Monroe food pantry
Dry Farming Institute board member
Benton Soil and Water Conservation District
Economic Development, City of Monroe

9. What is the best way for people to reach you?
Come by our store Friday 2-6, Saturday & Sunday 10-4 April-October
301 N 10th St
Monroe, Benton County 97456
www.lilliputopia.com
www.facebook.com/lilliputopia
Lilliputopia (@lilliputopia) • Instagram photos and videos
Email- lilliputopia@gmail.com

Please contact us here to interview your local business.