Oregon’s 9th Chocolate Festival in Beautiful Downtown Ashland

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The 9th annual Oregon Chocolate Festival

Oregon’s Chocolate Festival is held annually at the Ashland Springs Hotel in Ashland. The festival features the elegance of a big city in the comfort of a small town. As you move through the hotel’s Grand Ballroom, Crystal Room and Conservatory which are filled with vendors you will run into the local artisan event lovers such as me, along with people visiting from an array of areas all around. It brings together nearly 50 of Oregon’s premier chocolatiers, coffee roasters, breweries, wineries and other vendors and over 1500 visitors.

From traditional hand rolled truffles, enrobed in the finest chocolates, to chocolate-filled soft pretzels, chocolate cupcakes, toffee, and hot chocolate you can “pick your poison” as you make your way through the day. Something else to note during this event are the numerous ways you can cleanse your pallet with wine and beer vendors available for tasting. This year’s brew comes from Standing Stone Brewing Co and Eugene-based Oakshire Brewing Co. Standing Stone’s very own Larry Chase, brewer, even created a divine Chocolate Ale in celebration of the festival!!!

Collaboration is key when it comes to marrying flavors, and Oregon’s food aficionados do just that. Whether you’re after a cheddar with just a smidgen of chocolate, a pinot gris truffle, or just a piece of good old fashioned fudge, the Oregon Chocolate Festival has something for every palate. You can try unique combinations, unexpected flavor profiles, and decadent infusions with truffles, bars, crunchy toffees, marshmallows, drinking chocolate, chocolate flavored cheeses, chewy cookies, cupcakes, sauces and syrups, chocolate covered nuts, ice cream and other gooey, delicious goodness. Personally, my go-to flavor is anything with heat (spicy for the bold tongue) and chocolate filled with cheese (preferably blue) such as the Lille Belle truffle. In addition to the tasting itself, the festival offers a number of events for all ages. These include:

Festival attractions include:

Main Event: Meet, sample & buy! – Over 50 Oregon chocolatiers and other specialty food vendors present their products and tease your palate with decadent and exciting flavors! (Saturday & Sunday 11am – 3pm at the hotel).

Chocolate – themed First Friday Art Walk organized by the Ashland Gallery Association (Friday, 5 – 8pm). Enjoy diverse forms of art, local wines and chocolates. Stop by Ashland Springs Hotel and view Chocolate Sculpture built by Chocolatier/Pastry Chef Darrell Folck and OCCI Students, and visit with other artists and vendors showcased in the hotel lobby.

Chocolate Makers Dinner (Friday, 6:30 – 9pm) Larks Executive Chef, Damon Jones created a delightful four-course dinner featuring chocolate in each dish. Dinner is accompanied by presentation from a chocolatier.

Chef Demos: (Friday evening, Saturday and Sunday) – stop by Ashland Springs Hotel lobby to experience great culinary event, Chef demonstrations by chefs from Ichigo Cakes, MIX Sweet Shop, Larks Restaurant, Oregon Coast Culinary Institute, LOFT Brasserie and more.

Baking Class at Deux Chats Bakery – learn how to make Chocolate dough croissants with pear, cinnamon & Belgian chocolate fill – a 3-hour class.

Chocolate Facial & Martini Spa Party – Saturday, 4pm at Lithia Springs Resort – Join us for an evening of delicious cocktails and pampering. Spend time with Waterstone Spa technicians and learn about the powerful benefits of chocolate that can be applied to your skin care regiment.
Workshops:

Beer & Chocolate Pairings – with Ginger Johnson from Women Enjoying Beer (offered Saturday & Sunday)

Best tasting chocolates in the world – guided, sensory tasting. – with Charlie Douglass from Harry & David (Sat & Sun)

“From Bean to Bar” – making the best chocolate bars in the world. – with Art Pollard from Amano Chocolate (Sun)

Candy-making workshop for kids at the ScienceWorks Hands on Museum – Hands-on workshop for children – learn to make chocolate truffles, dip candy, pretzels and fruits in chocolate. It’s an interactive, multi-sensory experience for those future chocolatiers and bakers! Museum fees apply. Saturday, March 2 at 11:30 and 12:30pm http://www.scienceworksmuseum.org

Wine & Chocolate pairing at the Enoteca – a wine bar located in downtown Ashland, Friday, March 1st

Chocolate treatments at Waterstone Spa & Salon – enjoy blissful massage, body scrub and other treatments designed to utilize beneficial antioxidants found in chocolate!

Chocolate discount at the Oregon Shakespeare Festival and Oregon Cabaret Theatre – Chocolate & theatre! Call OSF or OCT box office, mention ‘chocolate’ and receive 20% discount for the shows on March 1-3, 2013 http://www.OSFAshland.org

Harry and David would like to continue the chocolate festivities at the Country Village location!For this reason they set up a shuttle bus to and from their store and the festival.

Chocolate Tasting Party – Come sample chocolate wines and beers, chocolate cheeses, get a strawberry hand-dipped in our chocolate fountain, and try our most popular chocolate goodies. Friday, Saturday and Sunday

Chocolate Festival Overnight package at the Ashland Springs Hotel – includes two tickets to the festival, overnight stay with breakfast, box of chocolate truffles, commemorative chocolate festival mug, 12oz.drinking chocolate from Dagoba Organic Chocolate, plus hotel parking, wireless Internet access, and discounts to hotel’s restaurant LARKS, and hotel’s Waterstone Spa. Ultimate weekend getaway!

CONGRATULATIONS 2013 Oregon Chocolate Festival WINNERS (chosen by guests):
• Best Truffle: Sweet Thang Chocolates – for the Cleopatra Truffle
• Best Raw Chocolate: Karma Katcher Chocolates – for the Orange Rawbanero Truffle
• Best Traditional Use of Chocolate: Exotic Chocolates – for the Lemon Habanero Dark Chocolate
• Best Non-Traditional Use of Chocolate: Dagoba Organic Chocolate – for the Candied Orange Chocolate Bark
• Best Chocolate Candy: Melting Pot Candy Co. – for the Jalapeño Toffee
• Best Use of Chocolate in Baked Goods: Sunstone Artisan Bakery – for the Chocolate filled Soft Pretzel
• Best in Show: Smitten Artisan Truffles
• Honorable Mention: Sunstone Artisan Bakery
• People’s Choice Award: Sweet Thang Chocolates
• Runner Up: The Cupcake Daily

For other participants please visit the website at http://www.ashlandspringshotel.com/oregon-chocolate-festival/participants/

As you can see, this event is well worth the small cost of attending. Karolina and her staff at the hotel work both diligently and creatively to provide us with this opportunity of what I called a “chocolate overdose”. Although this is one of the main artisan (AKA foodie) events Ashland offers every year, they have a variety of other things to attend. Next up on my list: April 27th & 28th A TASTE OF ASHLAND 2013- 17 Galleries, 17 Wineries, 17 Restaurants, One delicious art experience! http://www.atasteofashland.com

Bonnie Ryan, Web Content/Social Media/Blogger
Southern Oregon Visitors Association (SOVA) AKA Travel Southern Oregon
http://www.southernoregon.org

Travel Oregon PR Tour, 2013. Time to Showcase Our Region!

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Travel Oregon PR Tour, 2013. Time to Showcase Our Region!

Have you ever thought about showcasing your own region? You do not have to do it for a business trip or be a professional, as you can do it for the simple love of the area you live in. Take every opportunity to do this and even act like a tourist yourself…and yes, in your own area! I am lucky enough to do it for all of the above. A couple of weeks ago, I got to join the Travel Oregon, MediaAmerica, and Maxwell PR tour as they  “toured around” the Southern Oregon region with Sue Price, who is our itinerary and trade show guru. Coming from Portland, they started in Bandon and worked their way down to the Rogue Valley where I was able to meet for the rest of the tour. Unfortunately, I missed the following destinations:

• Wildlife Safari, hosted by Amber Wilson/PR Relations   www.wildlifesafari.net
• Abacela Winery, hosted by Earl/Hilda Jones/Owners     www.abacela.com
• Holiday Inn Express   www.hiexpress.com
• Brix Restaurant, hosted by Misty Russell/Owner (no website to date)
• Roseburg VCB, hosted by Jean Kurtz/Director of Tourism  www.visitroseburg.com
• Del Rio Vineyards, hosted by Jolee Wallace/Owner  www.delriovineyards.com

What I personally got to enjoy lies below. The hosts were extremely accommodating and made sure they went above and beyond the “call of duty”. The lovely ladies who were visiting from the Portland area were Travel Oregon and Maxwell PR Staff: Judiaann Woo – consumer PR, industry content, Linea Gagliano – consumer PR, industry content, Stacey Malstrom – consumer PR (from Maxwell PR), Emily Forsha consumer content and social media, and Eileen Garvin – consumer content (from MediAmerica). From the area we had Sandi Torrey – Jacksonville Visitor Center, Sue Price, – SOVA Tour and Travel, Katharine Flanagan – Ashland VCB (Belle Fiore only), Jez Kline & Angela Wood – Travel Medford.

38 Central, hosted by David Graham/Owner www.38oncentral.com. Here we enjoyed a fabulous meal with a Del Rio Syrah, Claret, and a Vintage wine. A few things I love about this restaurant is that it is centrally located downtown Medford, you can dress up or down and still fit in, and not only is the food excellent but so is the service. David Graham has over 30 years of experience as a chef and continues to amaze his customers no matter what their order or background.

Belle Fiore Winery, hosted by Heather Goodwin/Tasting Room & Events Manager www.bellefiorewine.com. With a grand opening coming in Spring 2013, the valley can gear up to enjoy this gorgeous estate and what it has to offer. This estate has been farmed for 130 years, since it was homesteaded by the Murphy family three miles east of Ashland, Oregon during the 1880’s. Implementing sustainable farming practices, embracing the principles of head, hand and heart all fulfilled together, and welcoming visitors to the beauty of this destination will create a thriving winery for all to enjoy. Belle Fiore Winery is dedicated to growing savory, classical wine grapes well suited to thrive in the Ashland – Bear Creek region within the Rogue Valley Oregon appellation. The Bordeaux grape varietals include Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Merlot, Sauvignon Blanc and Petit Verdot.  Additionally, they grow Burgundian Pinot Noir grapes, and Rhone varietals of Syrah.  Italian and Spanish varietals also are welcomed, including Muscat Caneli, Montepulciano, Fiano, Coda-di-Volpe, and Barbera clones.  From Spain, they grow Teraldego. Designed by the award winning architects, DKA Architecture in Bend, Oregon, and by Interior Designer, Bonnie Davidson, this state-of-the-art winery, completed in 2012, is also one of the most energy efficient facilities in the Western United States. The tasting room, ceremonial barrel room, wine pavilion, chateau and gardens will cater to all wine lovers both in and out of the area. This is one winery that you absolutely need to visit!

Okay, so the moment of truth. What did I get to enjoy while there? The pairings were a selection of Spanish cheeses and Italian curried meats and a pesto dried tomato cheese torta from Rising Sun Farms. For wine, we tasted the 2009 Monte Fiore Syrah (Gold Medal Winner at West Coast Wine Competition), 2009 Monte Fiore Cabernet  Franc, 2011 Belle Fiore Pinot Noir “Chanson”, and a special barrel tasting of a 2012 Sauvignon Blanc. They added an additional pour from our 2011 BelleArte Syrah “Sensation” as well. What did I like about the winery the most? I honestly felt like I was back in France living in the Palace of Versailles.

DANCIN Vineyards, hosted by Dan & Cindy Marca/Owners, www.dancinvineyards.com. Just minutes from the Britt Festival and downtown Jacksonville, DANCIN lives in the western foothills of Southern Oregon. This family owned business who is an artisan producer of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, screams “relax, enjoy, and stay a while”. They go above and beyond to make sure that you can stay as long as you want, and possibly even longer! This couple truly compliments each other although they both admit they are extreme opposites. Dan being the “A”, handling the labor and winemaking artistry, while Cindy being the “Z”, handling the marketing, tasting room manager as well as master chef/baker…and let me tell you, what she whips up in that kitchen is mouthwatering to say the least. What do I love about this vineyard more than the wine and food (and of course, the family)? The care they give to their vines. Having to work each vine for fifteen minutes gives them the luxury (although very laborious) to translate into healthier fruit that requires less intervention in the winery leading to exceptional wine. For all of you “wine haters” out there, they strategically placed a case full of beer so you can still go and enjoy everything else they have to offer…besides the wine. Make sure while you are there, you ask Dan to explain the story of when they met and how they go to where they are today. Trick question for you: can you guess how they got their name? So, what did we try at DANCIN you ask? The Pinot noirs were paired with stuffed mushrooms topped with a Chardonnay cream sauce and Shibui. We finished with an amaretto cream truffle and the aromatics of the yet to be released 2011 DANCIN Vineyards “Trata” Barrel Select Southern Oregon Pinot Noir. Both of these pairings were honestly to die for!

• 2011 DANCIN Vineyards “Chasse” Dundee Hills Chardonnay
• 2011 DANCIN Vineyards “Capriccio” Southern Oregon Chardonnay
• 2011 DANVIN Vineyards “Quartette” Southern Oregon Chardonnay
• 2010 DANCIN Vineyards “Pas de Bourree” Southern Oregon Pinot Noir
• 2010 DANCIN Vineyards “Adagio” Southern Oregon Pinot Noir
• 2010 DANCIN Vineyards “Pas de Deux” Oregon Pinot Noir

Jacksonville Inn, hosted by Jerry & Linda Evans/Owners, in addition to Platon Mantheakis/Food and Beverage Director www.jacksonvilleinn.com. Chosen “Best Patio in Southern Oregon” by Mail Tribune in 2008, you can choose from up to 2,000 wines on their menu. Have you ever heard of such a thing? It is hard to find a better evening than to go out to dinner here with someone special before enjoying a show at the Britt Gardens less than two blocks away. They even offer a picnic basket menu to go for the shows! I am embarrassed to admit that out of my many years living in the area, I had never eaten at the Jacksonville Inn. But I can assure you that this is not the last time. What was on the menu here? Make sure you take note on a full stomach otherwise you might not make it through the rest of this blog…

• Assorted Pastries, Canapés and Other Antipasti.
• Fresh Pear and Walnut Salad.
• Fresh Pears, Spicy Walnuts, Red Grapes, and Crumbled Blue Cheese with an Apple-Walnut Dressing.
• Corn and Smoked Bacon Chowder w/BBQ’d pulled Pork and Smoked Paprika Oil.
• North Atlantic Lobster Risotto, served with Medallions of Lobster, Prawns, Fresh Asparagus, and Fresh Fennel with White Truffle Oil and Arborio Rice.
• Vegetarian Garden Risotto, served with Asparagus, Spinach, Sweet Peas, Radish, and Fennel. Finished with a Beet Emulsion.
• Poached Port Pear Brulee w/Vanilla Bean Ice Cream.

Thank you so much to our partners who came to visit the region and give us the opportunity to show them WHY this area is getting better by the year, every year. I would also like to give special thanks to Troon, Del Rio, John Guererro of JFG Wines, Valley View, and South Stage Cellars for donating bottles which contributed to the tour as well as our pure pleasure of sampling Southern Oregon wines. And of course, special thanks to those who hosted us and to Sue Price who coordinated everything for all of us to enjoy!

Bonnie Ryan, Web Content/Social Media/Blogger

Southern Oregon Visitors Association (SOVA) AKA Travel Southern Oregon

www.southernoregon.org

2012 Rogue Winterfest – 10th Annual

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2012 Rogue Winterfest – 10th Annual

Each year, Evergreen Federal Bank donates the use of its Bear Hotel Annex in Grants Pass for the Rogue Winterfest Festival where 4,000 people attend. This December, the warehouse was transformed into a winter wonderland filled with 25 adorned holiday trees, stunning art displays, thousands of hanging sparkling lights and Evergreen Federal Bank’s magical Christmas on Mars 3-D Display. When I say “It is like Disneyland in Grants Pass” it is an understatement. Thousands of 10 foot strips of lights adorn the ceiling throughout makes it quite a beautiful site. Their incredible donation and outstanding staff adds so much to the success of the Festival year after year.

The Festival consisted of five individual events and was held on December 6th through the 10th. The Gala Event and Auction, Golden Social, Weekend Holiday Events, Culinary Christmas Classic and Silent Auction all serve as not only fundraising efforts but a great way to have fun with those in your surrounding workforce and community. Fundraising efforts are made possible through event admission tickets, silent auction sales, a holiday tree and art auction, and sponsorships. Contributions and participation in this community fundraising event will help thousands of people get the care they need to improve the overall health of our community.

On one end of the room were excellent entertainers and on the other you were surrounded by 40 foot purple creatures, spaceships and ice tunnel. In between these opposing ends were dozens of food and wine vendors as well as community members showing their appreciation and support.
Wondering what the weekend agenda looked like? Check it out!

Gala Event and Holiday Auction (Opening night)

Let the bidding begin!!! Catered Southern Oregon Bounty Dinner by Taprock Northwest Grill. Featuring Chef Dennis, live entertainment by Dos Gardenias, Southern Oregon wines and the grand holiday tree and art auction. Oh what an opening night! Taprock Northwest Grill provided the Southern Oregon Bounty Dinner during the Gala Event and Auction. Comments were heard all night regarding their exceptional food and service. Keeping to the Southern Oregon theme parts of the dinner were donated by Southern Oregon’s Fresh Express, Rogue Creamery, Rising Sun Farms, and Applegate Valley Wineries. 24 trees and 9 art pieces were auctioned designed, created, and decorated by local artists and designers. Absolutely gorgeous!!! The talent that is in this valley is truly spectacular.

Golden Social (new this year & sold out)

For seniors only. Sponsored by Highland House and Royale Gardens. A private viewing for our friends over 55 featuring music of the 1940s and 1950s performed by Bob Armstrong and Donna Tennaro. This event was only offered to our community members over 55 and was sponsored by Highland House and Royale Gardens.The Highland House blew us away with their quality of food and their friendly professionalism. They offered six types of desserts, cider and coffee and did an exceptional job. Everyone was impressed! A definite keeper for next year!

Weekend Festival Events

Fun activities for the entire family. The public is invited to view holiday trees and art along with Evergreen Federal Bank’s legendary Christmas on Mars Exhibit. Visit Santa, Mrs. Claus, and the Snow Queen; engage in family activities and games; enjoy live entertainment; and vote on the People’s Choice Award. Two days of fun for the entire family. Entertainment, activities, Santa and Mrs. Claus, face painting, photo opps with the Ice Princess,……and on and on….what a great weekend!

Culinary Christmas Classic

A taste of Southern Oregon. Savor culinary tastings from Southern Oregon’s finest restaurants, caterers, wineries, and breweries. Mingle among the creatively decorated trees, enjoy live entertainment by Living on Dreams, and bid on your favorite Silent Auction item. The Culinary Christmas Classic was sponsored by 25 of the top culinary establishments, wineries, and breweries in Southern Oregon. Samplings of food, wine, and brews were enjoyed by all.

Below is a list of our Culinary Christmas Classic sponsors.

Wineries, Breweries, and Distilleries:

• Brandy Peak Distillery
• Bridgeview WineryDel Rio Vineyards
• Plaisance Ranch and Winery
• Rosella’s Winery
• Troon Vineyards
• Serra Vineyards
• Schmidt Family Vineyards
• Wild River Brewing Co.
• Wooldridge Creek Winery

Culinary Establishments:

• Bohemian Bar and Bistro
• Cynthia’s Home Sweet Home
• Goodness Gracious Café and Catering
• Highland House and Royale Gardens
• Historic Prospect Inn, Hotel and Dining
• Homemade Confections
• Ma Mosa’s
• Orchid Grill
• Rogue Creamery
• Rogue River Lodge
• Rosso’s Trattoria
• The Vine Restaurant

Coffee Service by Jumpin’ Bean. Service provided by Taprock Northwest Grill and Grants Pass High School Culinary Department.

The Festival proceeds help children, teens, adults, and families with mental health needs and supports the non-profit mental health agencies; Family Solutions http://www.familysolutionsoregon.org, Kairos http://www.kairos-nw.org, and Options for Southern Oregon http://www.optionsonline.org. Research shows that mental health problems are linked with a host of societal concerns, including physical health outcomes. Josephine County is fortunate to have three outstanding mental health organizations that address the needs of the children, teens, adults, and families in our community. Family Solutions (formerly Family Friends), Kairos (formerly SOASTC) and Options for Southern Oregon were all founded by local citizens in response to community needs. These organizations have developed high-quality, innovative, and cost-effective services and supports over the past 30 years. Together, they serve more than 5,000 individuals annually, and approximately four times as many low-income individuals are eligible for services. During these tough economical times it is important that we all pull together to build a healthier community for us all. 2012 was an amazing Festival. The quality of the trees, art, entertainment, food, and service was outstanding and was said to be one of the most successful sold out Rogue Winterfest’s to date. The team of Event Planner and Coordinator “Price and Ashley” proved to be very successful. Rogue Winterfest http://www.roguewinterfest.org has raised over $400,000 for children, teens, adults, and families with mental health needs in our community.

A huge thank you and successful congrats to the event planner, Sue Price of Southern Oregon Marketing Consultant, who is also an independent contractor for SOVA http://www.southernoregon.org, Grants Pass Tourism http://www.visitgrantspass.org, Ashland Springs Hotel http://www.ashlandspringshotel.com, and Travel Medford http://www.travelmedford.org. Also a big thanks goes out to Gigi Ashley, co-event coordinator. Over 100 volunteers, 75 entertainers, 15 restaurants and catering establishments, Southern Oregon wineries and breweries, 50 artists and decorators, and 60 sponsors help support and donate their services during the Rogue Winterfest. Other big thanks to mention are Chris Cauble of Cauble and Cauble Attorneys at Law, for their Diamond Sponsorship (cash donation, decorating skills, and volunteerismsm, we salute you); Taprock Northwest Grill, for sponsoring the Southern Oregon Bounty Gala Event and Auction; and Highland House and Royale Gardens, for sponsoring the Golden Social. Lastly, Michaels & Michaels Creative, LLC. can be given a big thanks for website updates and publication.

Make sure you see how you can get involved next year! Work is already underway for 2013! Mark you calendars for December 5- 11, 2013. For more information on the Rogue Winterfest or how you can get involved visit http://www.roguewinterfest.org. Sue Price, Event Planner sue@roguewinterfest.org or Gigi Ashley, Event Coordinator, gigi@roguewinterfest.org.

Bonnie Ryan, Web Content/Social Media/Blogger
Southern Oregon Visitors Association (SOVA) AKA Travel Southern Oregon
http://www.southernoregon.org

Crater Lake National Park-Wizard Island Trip

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Crater Lake National Park, the Country’s Crown Jewel

What is better than visiting Crater Lake National Park, also known as one of the country’s crown jewel? Having the opportunity to stay on Wizard Island inside of the caldera walls! A little under educated when it comes to this amazing natural attraction? Give me the pleasure of telling you more about it.

Founded May 22, 1902, Crater Lake National Park seeks to preserve these natural and cultural resources. This area of 249 square miles is dedicated to the preservation of its natural and cultural resources, and has a focus on preservation for our enjoyment of human visitors, but also has another goal they put forth more effort. The comprehensive view of the ecosystems and interactions within the environment at Crater Lake is what park personnel lean towards. No place else on earth combines a deep pure lake, so blue in color; sheer surrounding cliffs, almost 2,000 feet high; a picturesque island and a violent volcanic past.

How about some fun facts?

1. Seven different trees live on Phantom Ship, an island in Crater Lake.  There are also colonies of violet green swallows, and several varieties of wildflowers and lichens living there.
2. What kinds of birds and animals might I see during my visit? The FAQ page will tell you, find out!
3. Wizard Island is a cinder cone that erupted after Crater Lake began to fill with water.  It is one of two islands in Crater Lake.  Do you know the name of the other island? (Hint: Answer is above).
4. Crater Lake is 1,943 feet deep. That makes it the deepest lake in the United States, and the ninth deepest lake in the world! The depth of Crater Lake was first measured in 1886 with a simple sounding machine that consisted of a crank and a spool of piano wire.  Those first measurements showed the lake to be 1,996 feet deep – not far off from the depth of 1,943 feet that was measured with high tech equipment in 2000!
5. There is only one place where it is safe and legal to get down to the lake shore. It is the Cleetwood Cove Trail, which usually opens mid to late June. The trail is 1.1 miles long and drops nearly 700 feet down to the lake shore. Visitors are welcome to swim in the lake from the shoreline at the end of this trail.
6. Are there fish in the lake, and can I catch them? I dare you to find out by research!
7. Crater Lake National Park gets an average of 533 inches of snow per year – that is more than 44 feet of snow!
8. The average temperature of the water (below 300 feet deep) is 38°. In the summer, the surface can warm up to 55° or 60°.
9. Want to know how many people visit the park each year? Again, go and do some research. Dare you!
10. Crater Lake was formed when a massive eruption of Mount Mazama 7700 years ago caused the mountain to collapse, leaving a steaming caldera. Centuries of rain and snow filled the caldera creating Crater Lake.

Although the island is closed to the public for camping, there are still handfuls of things you can do at the lake in order to enjoy your time well spent. Simply driving around the 33-mile lake can keep you busy as it offers more than 30 viewpoints where you can pull off to the side and gaze at one of the deepest lakes in the United States. Hiking is another option, one which I love! There are a variety of hikes from mild walks to strenuous ones. You can explore meadows full of flowers, rocky peaks, or pristine forests. If you choose to visit the Sinnott Memorial Overlook, you will get the pleasure of having panoramic views, exciting exhibits, and an experience to learn more about the park’s geologic story and history of scientific investigation. Attending a ranger program is a great way to ask the real experts themselves. This is done by talks, walks, trolley tours, boat tours, and kids programs which are offered daily. You can take 18 minutes and watch the park film at the Steel Visitor Center. The Pinnacles can be an option to visit, if you have a little time to visit the southeast corner of the park. Since these are the same ones that formed during the eruption that “gave birth to the lake”, I suggest doing so. Touring Crater Lake Lodge gives you a glimpse into an earlier era by the use of their history exhibits. Lastly, if you are feeling a little on the lazy side, you can always just relax and watch the sky while enjoying your home made picnic. If you can, make sure you are there are night because the star gazing up here is absolutely incredible. If you do plan a visit, make sure and check out their web site before you do. With webcams, event schedules and more, planning ahead always makes a difference (especially when it comes to weather). Their site can be easily navigated and found at http://www.nps.gov/crla/index.htm.

So what does the park have to do with my blog and stay out on the island?

Several months ago, Travel Southern Oregon and the Crater Lake National Park Trust announced a new partnership effort. Members of each organization’s board of directors took an amazing excursion to Wizard Island at Crater Lake National Park, where (by special arrangement of park officials) the two group’s had strategic planning retreat.  Lucky for me I was able to attend this once in a lifetime experience.

“As Southern Oregon’s key attraction, and one of Oregon’s most-visited destinations, Crater Lake National Park has long been a cornerstone of our marketing efforts,” said Carolyn Hill, who serves as both CEO of Travel Southern Oregon and will now also serve as Executive Director for the Crater Lake National Park Trust. “This terrific partnership between the two organizations is a natural fit for both.”

The Crater Lake National Park Trust was formed during planning for the Park’s 100th anniversary in 2002. The Trust works to ensure a future in which the Park is widely recognized as an Oregon icon and national treasure, and in which the Park serves as a thriving laboratory and classroom. The Trust works to encourage gifts, grants, and other contributions. The Trust became an independent 501c3 in 2006.

Travel Southern Oregon is a 501c6 regional marketing association formed in 1984. Its mission is to increase and lengthen visitor stays in the region by encouraging regional marketing efforts across a seven-county area:  Douglas, Jackson, Josephine, Klamath, Lake, Coos and Curry Counties. Furthermore, Travel Southern Oregon holds a respected position in the state’s tourism efforts as the official regional coordinator for Travel Oregon programs.

Via this new partnership, SOVA CEO Carolyn S. Hill will serve as the Executive Director for the Trust. “We are extremely pleased to welcome the contributions that Travel Southern Oregon and Carolyn will bring to the Trust’s endeavors,” states William A. Thorndike (Medford Fabrication) who is the President of the Trust Board.  “We look forward to working with Travel Southern Oregon on this important partnership.”

Crater Lake National Park Superintendent, Craig Ackerman, also notes that the partnership is a logical fit.  “Both organizations are committed to the National Park as an icon for visitors to the region and state, and as a critically important ‘living lab’ where students can learn about the preservation and protection of this amazing place,” said Ackerman.

In the coming year, Travel Southern Oregon and the Trust are focused together on a range of important goals, including:  strengthening the Park as a vital resource for education, inspiration, and discovery; helping people develop meaningful connections with the Park; increasing positive media coverage of the Park’s resources and programs; and developing local and regional support for funding capital improvement and visitor services programs. Hats off to both Carolyn and Craig for making this all happen!  – Carolyn Hill, CEO, Travel Southern Oregon & Executive Director, Crater Lake National Park Trust

As you can see, these two massive collaborative efforts have a lot of work going on behind the scenes to contribute to the beatification and preservation of the park. Not sure if you want to make the trip and still not convinced? Take some time and ask around to see if anyone you know has visited Crater Lake. Also make sure you go to their Facebook page and browse the pictures being posted every day by tourists who are still excited about their visit, years later. Lastly, please do yourself a favor and go!

Bonnie Ryan, Web Content/Social Media/Blogger

Southern Oregon Visitors Association (SOVA) AKA Travel Southern Oregon

www.southernoregon.org

Southern Oregon Winery Tours-NEW to the Applegate & Rogue Valley

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Southern Oregon Winery Tours-NEW to the Applegate & Rogue Valley

Southern Oregon Winery Tours (SOWT) provides a unique approach to the diverse and exciting Rogue Valley and Applegate Valley wineries, which is in fact the oldest wine region in the state. The cost covers your transportation, delicious local snacks which keep coming throughout the day, waived tasting fees, a discount on wines during the tour (same as wine club members), a walk-through of at least one of the three vineyards you visit, and a barrel room tasting. This full day tour not only takes you to and from the wine region in a big black luxurious Mercedes Benz van, but it also creates a fun learning experience that you would not be able to get out of a self-guided tour. Trust me, I have tried! With the combination of the historical and current knowledge between the professional driver of SOWT and the winery employees, you are bound to walk away with a handful of memories and facts about our booming industry of wine. To read more about the Southern Oregon wine region go to http://southernoregonwinerytours.com/southern-oregon-wine-region/.

Currently, our region has 127 vineyards and is growing! Southern Oregon has been identified as one of the most unique growing regions in the world. We can boast over 170 microclimates and the opportunity to grow over 70 varietals which include:

• Albarino
• Bastardo
• Baco Noir
• Cabernet Franc
• Cabernet Sauvignon
• Chardonnay
• Dolcetto
• Grenache
• Grenache Blanc
• Gewurztraminer
• Malbec
• Marssane
• Merlot
• Mouvedre

• Petit Verdot
• Petite
• Sirah
• Pinot Noir
• Pinot Blanc
• Pinot Meunier
• Primativo
• Reisling
• Roussane
• Syrah
• Tempranillo
• Tinta Rouriz
• Tinta Amarillo
• Touriga Nacional
• Verdejho
• Vermentino
• Viognier
• Zinfandel

First stop during my tour was Wooldridge Creek Vineyards! The winery and vineyards are located on a rolling hillside overlooking the Applegate River Valley.  The first grapevines were planted at Wooldridge Creek in the 1970’s.  The vineyard has now expanded to 56 acres planted in twelve varieties: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Syrah, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Viognier, Sangiovese, Zinfandel, Malbec, Petit Verdot and Tempranillo. Not being a typical lover of Chardonnay, I was pleasantly surprised how I did in fact LOVE this wine! One of my favorite things about this winery in addition to the view of course, is the cat who greets you and hangs with you as long as you let him, Lewis. Yes, this is the cat in my picture! After tasting five of their wines and topping it with a sparkling brut, we were able to tour their barrel room where the French oak barrels were wrapped with willow branches and Paul gave us more information than I could take in. And I mean this in a very good way of course! Some fun facts I learned here were: a) a barrel holds about 145 bottles of wine, b) it will sit 1-4 years before being sold, and c) they organically control the humidity and temperature. Before our departure, he also showered us in goodies ranging from the world famous pears from Harry & David as well as one of the blue cheese favorites from the Rogue Creamery (also world famous as I am sure you are aware of). Additionally, we nibbled on green olives stuffed with garlic, Italian dry salami, apples, and another cheese from the Creamery. If you have never tried the Touvelle Lavender it is a must! To learn more about them visit their website at http://www.wcwinery.com/.

Troon Vineyard is one of the first in the Applegate Valley, opening in 1972. Forty years later, with the guidance of the Martin family, this stunning estate has grown to 100 acres with over 40 acres of grapes planted and has become one of the leading producers in Oregon. Known for their signature Zinfandels and unique blends, they are also pioneering varietals such as Vermentino and Tannat. We were able to taste seven of these during our tasting. Hands down, their blend 2010 Druid’s Fluid red (also known as their greatest mistake) is one of the BEST reds I have ever had (even claimed by those who mainly love white). To pair with our wine, SOWT provided us with yet more tasty treats! We enjoyed a French baguette with fresh basil and mozzarella, tomato, pesto, and blue cheese crumbles. I love this winery because it makes me feel like I am in Italy again with the Tuscan style tasting room, so beautiful! Not only do they have the relaxing patio, they also have recreational sports at Troon. If you want a challenge for volleyball or botchy ball it is on! Maybe even a little more fun after you have some wine? Hmmm yes, I think so.

At Troon, we were lucky enough to get a barrel tasting of their Malbec and a tour from the winemaker himself. Brian Gruber, who is both the Vineyard & Production Manager, took us through the vineyard and gave us a wealth of knowledge to walk away with. What, you ask? Well, for one they fertilize their grapes through a drip system. Seems simple but this is one of those things that was an “aha” moment for me. What a great idea! A second fun fact is that each vine has a bushel of roses at the end. Do these actually serve a purpose other than being pretty? In addition to their simple beauty, the health of the vine is indicated through the health of the rose. Another great idea if you ask me. For more information on Troon go to http://www.troonvineyard.com/.

Last stop, Red Lily Vineyards. Here, they are committed to a single goal which is producing the finest tempranillo wine possible. Well, if you ask me the goal has been met and then exceeded. Not only does this winery have an amazing tasting room both in and out, they sit on the Applegate River with a very picturesque beach setting. I don’t know about you, but I feel that enjoying good wine (and food of course) with good company AND the river does not get much better than that. During out visit we tasted four different wines, and although I love red I fell in love with their 2007 Madrone Mountain Starthistle Cuvee. The perfect amount of sweetness to end the day. Speaking of ending the day (right), my new friend Paul treated us one more time. We paired a ginger spice thin cookie with Rising Sun Farms chocolate mocha mousse cheese torta (gluten-free and all natural). Okay, if you happen to like the sound of this in the slightest I say pack a picnic and GO! You will not be disappointed. Check out Red Lily at http://www.redlilyvineyards.com/home.html.

If this tour does not sound like something you are interested, and maybe too relaxed for your liking? Try Wiking! Yes, really this is not a joke. Wine+hiking=wiking. Thanks to the owner of this company and his love for adventure in Southern Oregon. This is one of the other three tours that SOWT offers. Wine hiking on the Rogue River trail with our very good friend Liz Wan of Vino Verse Consulting. Hikers experience a beautiful hiking trail averaging about 10 miles a day and spend evenings in a different wilderness lodge along the trail. Okay, a little too adventurous? We understand! How about trying a Twilight Wine Float on the Rogue River? Book now, the season will end early October. These trips are operated by their parent company Rogue Wilderness Adventures, an award winning river outfitting business for over 40 years. Relax with a late afternoon float through Hellgate Canyon (where bald eagles and nests are often spotted). Frequently, the riverside wildlife awakens to play as twilight threatens the day. The raft floats silently downstream while families of otters frolic on the sandy beach and beavers emerge to make their rounds. Stop for a light meal and enjoy wine tasting before continuing on. Still too much? How about a Group Wine Tasting Event? If you fancy catering to some out of town friends or a special occasion but do not want to do the work of it, simply call Southern Oregon Winery Tours and let them take care of it all. Driven to and from in the big black Benz? Have I not sold you yet? If not (or even so), please go to http://southernoregonwinerytours.com/wine-tours/.

Lastly, I must give a big huge thank you to Brad Niva, the owner of SOWT for making this tour happen. Also, it would be a shame to leave out Paul Harris. Paul was our driver who kept us well fed and entertained along the way. Thank you for your expertise and charm!

Cheers,

Bonnie Ryan, Web Content/Social Media/Blogger

Southern Oregon Visitors Association (SOVA) AKA Travel Southern Oregon

www.southernoregon.org

“WOW” World of Wine Festival – 10th Annual

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“WOW” World of Wine Festival – 10th Annual

On August 22nd through August 25th in Historic Jacksonville at Bigham Knoll, the 10^th annual Southern Oregon World of Wine Festival was held (also known as WOW).  The festival’s primary goal was to promote the wine industry and Southern Oregon’s agri-tourism which benefits the entire local economy as we know. These four days of events included a wine competition (held a week before the Grand Tasting), an opening night cocktail reception, local artisan food vendors, live music, a number of wine sensory classes, a Gold Rush dinner, and of course the catered Grand Tasting itself, which featured Gold Medal Wine Winners. The Grand Tasting alone offered over 182 of Southern Oregon’s finest wines from 47 wineries. These included Albarino, Viognier, Roussane, Tempranillo, Malbec, Cabernet Franc and other eclectic blends. It also included local vendors such as Bill Gallager’s Western BBQ, Jacksonville Inn, Rogue Creamery, Bella Union, Good Bean, and Homemade Confections. For links to these vendors go to http://worldofwinefestival.com/pages/427-event-info

For the wine competition, three nationally recognized exceptional wine judges were selected for this event which included Traci Dutton, Sheri Sauter Morano, and Dr. Liz Thach. Traci serves as the Sommelier in the Wine Spectator Greystone Restaurant at the Culinary Institute of America. Sheri Sauter Morano, MW (standing for master of wine), is a wine expert from North Carolina. Dr. Liz Thach, MW, is a management and wine business professor at Sonoma State University.  To read more about these judges follow this link http://worldofwinefestival.com/pages/488-judges

Unfortunately I was unable to attend all four days and missed the sensory classes. The topics were: History of Southern Oregon Wine Growing Region, Sensory Evaluation Tasting and Pairing Wines, Climates of Southern Oregon/What the Future Holds, and Sensory Evaluation Southern Oregon vs. Old World. Once you get past the pleasure of simply tasting the wine you can explore all of the science behind it. These classes focus on the knowledge and appreciation of great wine in our valley. Speaking of…Did you know that Southern Oregon’s wine history dates back to the 1840’s when European immigrants began planting grapes and eventually bottling wines? Peter Britt, from our very own Britt Festivals was an early settler who opened Oregon’s first official winery in the 1850’s. To learn more about wineries in Southern Oregon go to http://www.sorwa.org/ which is the home site of Southern Oregon Winery Association, and to the home site of Rogue Valley Winegrowers Association at http://rvwinegrowers.org/.

Backtracking a bit, the night I was able to attend was the opening night of the cocktail reception. The four hours of wine tasting and mingling was filled with good company, local artisan vendors (might I add delicious) and a solo musician giving us a night of Spanish and Portuguese vocals and percussion. Scott Head plays beautiful notes with his guitar, trumpet, and flute. If you are interested in hearing his music go to www.musicamelodia.com.  As for the edible treats, it makes my mouth water even thinking about it. Dèjá Vu Bistro & Wine Bar at the McCully House Gardens can be found at http://www.thegardenatmccully.com/. They were sampling Serrano ham with manchego cheese, olive tapenade and stone fruit soup served cold. Shibui Nation served reduced balsamic vinegar with cream cheese and smoked salmon, along with mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes. You can find them at http://www.shibuination.com/. Jacksonville Inn served basil and artichoke hearts with pesto and mozzarella, antipasto skewers, mini pear tomatoes and kalamata olives. You can find them at http://www.jacksonvilleinn.com/. Capers, which is a new meditteranian restaurant in Medford, served a white chocolate brownie with a blueberry cremalota spread paired with hazelnuts and blueberries on top sprinkled with a dash of sugar. They also served baba ghanoush (an eggplant spread) on house made semolina honey bread. You can find them on Facebook at “Capers Medford” but they do not have a web site quite yet. Lastly, Vintner’s Kitchen served a variety of their amazing jams and mustards. If you are a saucy person like myself, you must go to their site at http://www.vintnerskitchen.com/.

Now for the good stuff and what you are really waiting for. Who were the participating wineries and who were the winners?

2012 WOW Complete List of Winners

Best of Show – White Wine: Schmidt Family Vineyards 2011 Albariño

Best of Show – Red Wine: Schmidt Family Vineyards 2009 Tempranillo

Best of Show – Other Wine: Quady North 2011 Rosé

DOUBLE GOLD MEDAL WINNERS

• Abacela Winery      2009 Estate Grown Port
• Brandborg      Vineyard and Winery 2011 Gewürtztraminer
• Ledger David      2010 Orion’s Nebula
• Pebblestone      Cellars 2008 Syrah
• Pebblestone      Cellars 2011 Pinot Gris
• Schmidt Family      Vineyards 2011 Albariño
• Schmidt Family      Vineyards 2009 Tempranillo
• Quady North 2011      Rosé
• Quady North 2009      Arsenal

GOLD MEDAL WINNERS

• Abacela Winery      2009 Estate Grown Malbec
• Abacela Winery      2011 Estate Grown Grenache Rosé
• Bridgeview      Vineyard and Winery 2010 Black Beauty Tempranillo
• Cuckoo’s Nest      Cellars 2011 Aromatíque
• Del Rio      Vineyards 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon
• Delfino      Vineyards 2010 Tempranillo
• Foris Vineyards      and Winery 2008 Cabernet Franc – Siskiyou Terrace
• Kriselle Cellars      2009 Tempranillo
• Pebblestone      Cellars 2011 Viognier
• Slagle Creek      Vineyard 2008 Syrah

SILVER MEDAL WINNERS

• Abacela Winery      2007 Reserve Tempranillo
• Agate Ridge      Vineyard 2008 Estate Bottled Petite Sirah
• Agate Ridge      Vineyard 2009 Estate Bottled Syrah
• Agate Ridge      Vineyard 2011 Weeknight White
• Brandborg      Vineyard and Winery 2008 Love Puppets Pinot Noir
• Brandborg      Vineyard and Winery 2009 Riesling
• Bridgeview      Vineyard and Winery 2009 Blue Moon Pinot Noir
• Bridgeview      Vineyard and Winery 2009 Black Beauty Syrah
• Caprice      Vineyards 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon
• Carpenter Hill      Vineyard 2009 Petite Sirah
• Cliff Creek      Cellars 2006 Claret
• Cliff Creek      Cellars 2008 Merlot
• Cliff Creek      Cellars 2006 Estate Grown Syrah
• Cuckoo’s Nest      Cellars 2011 Pinot Gris
• Cuckoo’s Nest      Cellars 2009 Two Birds
• Daisy Creek      Vineyard 2009 Malbec
• Del Rio      Vineyards 2010 Claret
• Delfino      Vineyards 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon
• Delfino      Vineyards 2010 Syrah
• Folin Cellars      2008 Syrah
• Foris Vineyards      and Winery 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon
• Foris Vineyards      and Winery 2010 Pinot Blanc
• Grizzly Peak      Winery & Vineyards 2010 Malbec
• Henry Estate      Winery 2010 Müller Thurgau
• Kriselle Cellars      2009 Cabernet Franc
• Kriselle Cellars      2010 Viognier
• LaBrasseur      Vineyard 2010 Ethan Cole
• LaBrasseur      Vineyard 2011 Riesling
• LaBrasseur      Vineyard 2010 Syrah
• Ledger David      2010 Chardonnay
• Ledger David      2010 Sangiovese
• Fly High and      Longsword Vineyards 2010 Invitation Chardonnay
• Misty Oaks      Vineyard 2011 Julio’s Hill Pinot Gris
• Misty Oaks      Vineyard 2009 Stuckagain Heights Pinot Noir
• Misty Oaks      Vineyard 2008 Gobblers Knob Red Blend
• Belle Fiore      Winery 2009 Monte Fiore Cabernet Franc
• Belle Fiore      Winery 2009 Monte Fiore Syrah
• Pebblestone      Cellars 2008 Cabernet Franc
• Pebblestone Cellars      2008 Merlot
• Plaisance Ranch      2010 Ranch Red
• Pyrenees      Vineyard & Cellars 2011 Sémillon
• Quady North 2008      Syrah – Steelhead Run Vineyard
• Quady North 2009      Syrah – Mae’s Vineyard
• Quady North 2011      Pistoleta
• Red Lily      Vineyards 2007 Tempranillo
• Rocky Knoll      Vineyard 2008 Dunbar Red
• RoxyAnn Winery      2009 Cabernet Franc
• RoxyAnn Winery      2011 Pinot Gris
• RoxyAnn Winery      2009 Sky Hill Red
• RoxyAnn Winery      2009 Syrah
• Schmidt Family      Vineyards 2009 Malbec
• Schmidt Family      Vineyards 2009 Merlot
• Schmidt Family      Vineyards 2009 Mighty Mac Red
• Schmidt Family      Vineyards 2009 Syrah
• Schmidt Family      Vineyards 2011 Viognier
• Schmidt Family      Vineyards 2011 Roussanne
• Schultz Wines      2010 Blessed Merlot
• Serra Vineyards      2007 Bendock Estate
• Serra Vineyards      2011 Rosa Marie Rosé
• Slagle Creek      Vineyard 2009 Estate Merlot
• Slagle Creek      Vineyard 2008 Estate Reserve Red
• Slagle Creek      Vineyard 2009 Pini Tempranillo
• Slagle Creek      Vineyard 2010 Clover
• Soloro Vineyard      2010 Blood Stain
• Soloro Vineyard      2007 Grenache
• Soloro Vineyard 2010      Syrah
• Soloro Vineyard      2010 Thunderegg Cut
• South Stage      Cellars 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon
• South Stage      Cellars 2009 Grenache
• South Stage      Cellars 2008 Alchemy
• Spangler      Vineyards 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve
• Spangler      Vineyards 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate Reserve
• Spangler      Vineyards 2010 Petite Sirah
• Tesóaria      Vineyard & Winery 2010 Éponyme
• Tesóaria      Vineyard & Winery 2011 Dolcetto
• Trium Wines 2007      Growers’ Cuvée
• Troon Vineyard      2009 Old Vine Meritage
• Troon Vineyard      2010 Chardonnay
• Troon Vineyard      2010 Insomnia Port
• Troon Vineyard      2008 Syrah Reserve
• Troon Vineyard      2011 Foundation ’72 Vermentino
• Troon Vineyard      2010 Kubli Bench Zinfandel

 

2012 Participating Wineries

• Abacela Winery
• Agate Ridge      Vineyard
• Anindor
• Aurora Vines
• Belle Fiore      Winery
• Brandborg      Vineyard And Winery
• Bridgeview      Vineyards And Winery
• Caprice      Vineyards
• Carpenter Hill
• Cliff Creek      Cellars
• Cowhorn Winery
• Crater Lake      Cellars
• Cuckoo’s Nest      Cellars
• Daisy Creek Wine
• Del Rio
• Delfino      Vineyards
• Devitt Winery
• Foris Winery
• FHLV
• Folin Cellars
• Foris Vineyards      & Winery
• Grizzly Peak      Winery
• Henry Estate
• Kriselle Cellars
• La Brasseur      Vineyard
• Ledger David
• Misty Oaks      Vineyards
• Paschal Winery
• Pebblestone      Cellars
• Plaisance Ranch
• Pyrenees      Vineyard
• Quady North
• Red Lily
• Rocky Knoll      Vineyard
• RoxyAnn Winery
• Schmidt Family
• Schultz Wines
• Serra Vineyard
• Simple Machine      Wine
• Slagle Creek      Vineyard
• Soloro Vineyard
• South Stage      Cellars
• Spangler      Vineyards
• TeSóAria      Vineyard & Winery
• Trium
• Troon Vineyard
• Valley View      Winery
• Weisinger’s of      Ashland
• Willamette      Valley Vineyards
• Windridge Vineyards

For a link to all wineries listed go to http://worldofwinefestival.com/pages/427-event-info

To read more about WOW, go to www.worldofwinefestival.com , and make sure to go next year!

 

Bonnie Ryan, Web Content/Social Media/Blogger

Southern Oregon Visitors Association (SOVA) AKA Travel Southern Oregon

www.southernoregon.org

Sanctuary One at Double Oak Farm-Applegate Valley

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Sanctuary One at Double Oak Farm-Your Local Care Farm

Sanctuary One at Double Oak Farm is located outside of Jacksonville in the beautiful Applegate Valley. This nonprofit care farm gives guided tours upon reservation that are offered March through October by appointment only (Wednesdays and Saturdays). Here, you will find a variety of friendly farm animals and house pets such as horses, cows, llamas, pigs, sheep, goats, chickens, ducks, geese, dogs, and cats. Employees, volunteers, and interns all work together for mutual healing with the animals. This animal sanctuary provides a safe and comfortable home to the animals they take in, and they work with those who are interested in being good homes for adoption. If you are interested in reading more about the pets and think you might be a good home (or would simply like to be a sponsor), please visit http://www.sanctuaryone.org/meet.html. Additionally, they provide an environment that derives from Europe which is the therapeutic use of farming practices, which is known as care farming or green care. Focusing on sustainability through organic permaculture-inspired farming practices, Sanctuary One is a place we all need to go take notes at!

Not only do they provide public tours but they also invite schools and youth-serving nonprofit groups to visit the farm for hands-on learning, mentor interns who are interested in care farms, and more. In fact, they have even teamed up with Mediation Works and Jackson County Community Justice to provide an alternative to the traditional juvenile corrections program. Additionally, they have an internship program and two places where it is advertised. The first is World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms (also known as WWOOF). Personally, I have been a “WWOOFer” and loved it! I did this while traveling in Ireland and Sicily. This gave me the passion for sustainability and organic farming practices that I did not have before, and it a great benefit to both the volunteer and the host. For more information about WWOOF go to http://www.wwoof.org/. The second program is The National Sustainable Agriculture Information Service, which you can find at https://attra.ncat.org. If these programs are of interest to you make sure you check out the link on their site at http://www.sanctuaryone.org/programs.html. Last I heard, they were looking for fall interns so make sure to spread the word or get involved in this great opportunity yourself.

There are many ways you can help out the farm if you are interested. Go to the following site for more info http://www.sanctuaryone.org/support.html. For example, they have a current animal wish list which is in need of straw or hay bales, cat litter and 100 percent cotton towels, blankets, and sheets (any size, used OK). The farm and garden wish list consists of a picnic table, wooden chairs, work gloves (all sizes), wooden bird house (all kinds), metal garbage cans and heavy duty garden hoses. A big thanks goes out to all of our local donors, such as MaraNatha Peanut Butter in Ashland, and Harry and David in Medford.

For more information about Sanctuary One at Double Oak Farm go to www.SanctuaryOne.org or call 541-899-8627. Lastly, I urge you to sign up for their monthly e-newsletter and “like” them on Facebook. These updates are great to have!

Bonnie Ryan, Web Content/Social Media/Blogger

Southern Oregon Visitors Association (SOVA) AKA Travel Southern Oregon

www.southernoregon.org

House of Mystery-the Oregon Vortex

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The Oregon Vortex and location of the House of Mystery

The Oregon Vortex and location of the House of Mystery sits just outside of the quaint town of Gold Hill. This area, also known as the heart of the gold country, is located right on the Rogue River. It is open every day, and seven days a week starting March 1st through October 31^st. For less than $10 a person and under you can visit this world famous mystery yourself!

According to the House of Mystery website, which you need to visit yourself at www.oregonvortex.com, “The Oregon Vortex, goes way back to the time of the Native Americans. Their horses would not come into the affected area, so they wouldn’t. The Native Americans called the area the “Forbidden Ground”, a place to be shunned. Many years before The House of Mystery was built it was noted that unusual conditions existed there. But it was not until well into the 20th century that any effort was made toward a scientific analysis of the disturbance. John Litster was a geologist, mining engineer, and physicist. He developed the area in the early 1920′s and opened it to the public in 1930. He conducted thousands of experiments within the Vortex until his death in 1959. He was born in Alva, Scotland on April 30, 1886, son of a British Foreign Diplomat.”

What is it you ask?

“The Oregon Vortex is a spherical field of force, half above the ground and half below the ground. The word “vortex” simply means a whirpool of force, like a whirling mass of water. Especially one in which a force of suction operates such as a whirlpool or a whirling mass of air or one in the form of a visible column or spiral such as a tornado. A vortex, essentially a whirlpool of force, is the basic form of our universe. From our galaxy, whose vortex form we see as the countless suns of the Milky Way, throughout the gravitational vortex of our solar system, down to the vortex of an atom, the vortex form recurs throughout our world structure. The Phenomena that gives The Oregon Vortex its name are evident throughout the entire area. Nowhere in the circle do you normally stand erect. Inevitably the visitor assumes a posture that inclines toward magnetic north. The corona of The Vortex, as well as the minor vortices, discovered during the continuous study of The Vortex, are among the unique phenomena to be observed here.”

Last week I had the pleasure of taking my own tour with Toshiya Kikuchi, the Editor of Globetrotter Travel Guidebook in Japan and Greg Eckhart, the Global Sales-Asia rep from Travel Oregon/Oregon Tourism Commission while on their jam-packed Southern Oregon tour. Elena Copper, our tour guide was extremely knowledgeable and charismatic as always. I say this like I have had her before as a guide and I have. Growing up in Gold Hill and living in the Rogue Valley for almost 30 years, I think I have been to the House of Mystery a dozen times or so and not once has it been dull. It still remains a mystery to me!

Elena, and her adorable baby girl (yes, I said baby who was our second tour guide while riding along in the moby wrap) took us through a series of tests and demonstrations in order to give us the full effect of the vortex. As you can see from the pictures, this is not your typical house. The actual House of Mystery itself was built in 1904 by the Old Grey Eagle Mining Company as an assay office and tool-shed. This company stopped mining gold in 1911. A few years later this assay office slid off of its foundation on an angle and has been that way ever since. It was not until 1930 that it became known as The House of Mystery. One of the phenomena’s that happens at the Vortex are you can actually see and take pictures of the change in height, as seen in the pictures I have provided from my tour. When you have the pictures developed you can even measure the difference in height on the pictures. I would love to tell you more but this is something you need to see and experience yourself.

Since 1930, visitors from around the World make a point to visit this attraction while in the area or simply coming to the area for this attraction! Speaking of media, it has been featured a number of times throughout the years in various places. To name a few (although there is more and others to come), these consist of the NBC Nightly News with Tom Brokaw, Inside Edition, The New York Times, Travelocity.com, The Travel Channel, The Learning Channel,  The History Channel, Discovery, in  Japan with “The Unbelievable” and “Seven Wonders of the US”, “Ripley’s Believe it or Not”, “You asked for it”, “Unsolved Mysteries”, Supernatural, and  the X-Files show as well as their magazine.

Make sure to go to follow them on twitter and facebook, which is found at “The Oregon Vortex”.

Bonnie Ryan, Web Content/Social Media/Blogger

Southern Oregon Visitors Association (SOVA) AKA Travel Southern Oregon

www.southernoregon.org

 

Zip, Dip & Sip: Adventures around Gold Hill!

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Zip, Dip & Sip: Adventures around Gold Hill!

 

For months now I have been trying to make room in my crazy schedule to go on the full eight hour day escapade that Rogue Valley Zip Line Adventure now has to offer. This new tour offers zipping, a small amount of hiking, a catered lunch, a guided rafting trip down the class four nugget (my favorite rapid on the Rogue River), as well as wine tasting at the end. A HUGE thanks goes out to these local owners, Jason Meilicke and Lindsey Rice-Meilicke. Make sure to book your trip www.rvzipline.com

You start the day off with a zip and a historic Braden gold mine tour. The longest zipline in the Pacific North West, RVZA takes you over 2700 feet of their five zipline course. As each ride gets longer and higher, you will feel like your height threshold goes up more than it ever has before (unless you are already a height dare-devil). One of the best things about this zip (in addition to their extremely friendly, funny, and knowledgeable guides) is the view. You can actually see both Upper and Lower Table Rocks, the rim of Crater Lake, Mt. McLaughlin and Mt. Thielson.

After your last zip you have a catered a picnic box lunch provided by Pony Espresso of Jacksonville. A BBQ, horse shoe pit, and a set of picnic tables await your arrival. They even let you choose your favorite sandwich from their online menu at www.ponyespressojville.com

This is the perfect opportunity for you to get wet! When you are done with your lunch they take you to their rafting pick up spot, where Rogue Rafting Company, located in Gold Hill as well, will take it from there.  They take you on a gorgeous two hour rafting trip down the Rogue, where you have a professional photographer waiting to capture your moment conquering the Nugget! Jeff Wishard of Ashland, can be contacted at http://www.activeimagesphotography.com. No matter who your professional guide, they will take it easy on you or make you do some local river “surfing”. You can meet the guides and read more at www.rogueraftingcompany.com     

Now, what you have all been waiting for after your exciting day in the hot sun…wine tasting! Your last drop off point (which was also your first pick up point, where your car is left) is at Del Rio Vineyards & Winery. By this time, you are ready to relax and mingle with the rest of the tour group. You have the option of a tour, or you can skip to the tasting itself. Personally, I chose the tasting then the tour.  Del Rio has over 200 acres and fifteen grape varietals, and produces premium estate wines and is a key supplier of grapes for fine winemakers. Please view their site at www. delriovineyards.com . You will also see their summer concert line up for July 6^th through August 17^th.

Here comes the best part (in my eyes)…how was MY trip? Fabulous and could have not been better!!! This was one of the best days I have had in months. Steve and Kevin were our zip guides, and they were cracking jokes as well as giving historical facts for hours. Additionally, not only did I get to meet a fun loving family from San Diego and tell them everything I loved about Southern Oregon, I got to witness a wedding proposal at the end of the 5^th zip!!! An adorable couple from Arizona, Mark and Autumn, had been dating for a few years when Mark decided he wanted to “continue the adventure forever” as he stated during the moment that made us all cry. She said yes (of course) and the whole family was there to capture the moment they would all remember for the rest of their lives. What were the other highlights of the day you ask? Having a blast of a 76 year old man for a rafting guide who spun us around in circles until we were dizzy (with our permission of course). Willie was his name, and fun was his game. Willie, Mark, Autumn and I were all smiles down the Rogue. On the other raft, our other half of the tour group, were our San Diego friends. Colleen, Joe, and their two teenage daughters Addy and Maddy, along with the owner and other guide (Ben).

After the Rogue we went to the winery where I got to taste more than my given six, with a little sweet talking of course. They were sampling the following wines: 2008 Estate Reserve Petite Syrah, 2010 Pinot Gris, 2009 Viognier, 2011 Grenache Rose, 2009 Pinot Noir, 2010 Syrah, 2009 Malbec, and even the 2011 Gernache (right out of the stainless steel tank). Thank you to the Del Rio crew (Lindsey, Don, Courtney, & Delores) for taking us all out and passed the end of your working hours!

Although I was beat after this amazing day, I could not pass up the offer to go to dinner with the family from San Diego. There is nothing better than sharing your favorite places with people who are spending their hard earned vacation time (and money) in your home town area. We drove to Rogue River and had dinner at Paisano’s Italian Kitchen. This mom and pop feeling restaurant definitely surprised my pallet with a delicious eggplant parmesan dish. Whatever you do, do not let the strip mall or paper plates turn you away. Every dish that was ordered was fresh and just as it is in Italy itself (I can say that because I was there a little over a year ago-otherwise I would not).

I don’t know about you, but my favorite thing about traveling is not only the places I see, but the people I meet. It does not matter if you are at the Louvre or Eiffel Tower in Paris, the Blarney Stone in Ireland, or the lodge at Crater Lake National Park. People are everything, and that is one of the things I love best about Oregon.  We have some of the most genuinely happy people in this state and I am proud to say I am one of them. Keep traveling and sharing all that you know and love. Until next time…

Bonnie Ryan, Web Content/Social Media/Blogger

Southern Oregon Visitors Association (SOVA) AKA Travel Southern Oregon

www.southernoregon.org

 

Grand Opening of Ashland’s Lithia Springs Resort

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Grand Opening of Ashland’s Lithia Springs Resort

 

The much anticipated Grand Opening of Ashland’s Lithia Springs Resort took place on June 15th after 6 months of planning, renovating, investing and creative explorations. They had a great turn out and were able to share the delicious food, wine and beer as well as a good “boogie down” to The Lincoln Project after their personal tours of the renovation. Make sure you check out the web site with the details and browse away as you look to see what your options are during your next Southern Oregon trip!

“Ashland residents, Doug and Becky Neuman, who a few years ago brought back to its original grandeur, the historic landmark Ashland Springs Hotel, recently partnered with Duane Smith, the original owner of the Lithia Springs Inn with plans to renovate a beautiful property located on the outskirts of Ashland. The new owners changed its name to the Lithia Springs Resort and started a much-needed major renovation. Changes also include re-branding of the entire marketing concept.

Lithia Springs Resort is located just 3 miles from Ashland’s downtown. The resort located in the valley between Cascade and Siskiyou mountains features healing, mineral warm springs (94°F) piped into private soaking tubs located in 28 spa-like bungalows, garden rooms and suites. The curative springs found deep beneath the resort are rich in sulfur and numerous minerals, which help body heal, relieve stress, and rejuvenate. A unique Oregon experience with a soft-spoken luxury. 

Ashland was known as the “Carlsbad or Baden-Baden of America” in the early 1900s and we are planning to resurrect those “Taking to the Waters” simpler times, but with a fresh touch over the experience and aesthetics – said Becky Neuman, the new owner. As found in the collections of the Southern Oregon Historical Society, this part of Oregon has been famous for lithia, sulfur and soda springs for centuries. With the purchase of the Lithia Springs Resort we are proud to offer these healing sulfur springs to travelers looking for a unique Oregon experience, a spa-like retreat, celebrating healing waters and nature.

The design brought by Becky Neuman in partnership with a local interior design company – Twist- is modern naturalist, that’s whimsical and playfully chic.

Modern accents of white, aqua, silver and sapphire, with exciting pops of yellow, combining different textures, such as natural wood, silver, minerals, glass faux fur, and earthy eco-lux textiles were used in the décor of each guest space and the lobby. Art includes enlarged photos of water elements in silver frames. One highlight of the lobby is a display/curiosity cabinet showcasing the healing powers of water, natural wonders, chunks of rock quartz, chalky zeolite and milky glass balls, references to back-in-time mineral springs “cures” (vintage element) from original sources and various “sunbeams of health and wellness” verbiage and quotes. The resort also offers two beautifully renovated banquet spaces: Sapphire and Citrine, perfect for parties up to 50 people.

The resort grounds include beautiful flower gardens, arbors, koi ponds, and secret hideaways. Comfortable garden chairs and sunny yellow umbrellas offer comfort and shade on a hot day. Lithia Springs Resort is an oasis of tranquility and beauty with its quaking aspens, fruit trees, grapes, and colorful rose and berry bushes, all cultivated organically from their early beginnings. The new owners are planning to turn it into a popular outdoor venue, perfect for any outdoor event, including weddings.

Whether you come for business or to explore all Southern Oregon has to offer in live theater, wineries, gourmet food and handcrafted chocolates, river rafting, and fishing, Lithia Springs Resort is the place to stay to make your Southern Oregon experience delightful and unforgettable. At Lithia Springs Resort guests are invited to step back in time to celebrate healing waters and nature, to relax and rejuvenate in the comforts of a modern spa resort.”

- Karolina Wyszynska, Director of Sales & Marketing at Ashland Springs Hotel

Offering six different packages including much needed “spa time”, wineries, rafting, the Oregon Shakespeare Festival, and a romantic getaway you cannot go wrong with your stay at Lithia Springs Resort. For more information go to www.LithiaSpringsResort.com

Lithia Springs Resort

2165 West Jackson Road, Ashland OR

Reservations:    541-482-7128

Toll free:            800-482-7128

https://twitter.com/#!/Lithia_Springs

http://www.facebook.com/LithiaSpringsResort

http://larksrestaurant.com/

http://ashlandspringshotel.com/

http://waterstonespa.com/

Bonnie Ryan, Web Content/Social Media/Blogger

Southern Oregon Visitors Association (SOVA) AKA Travel Southern Oregon

www.southernoregon.org