Living Life In Oregon. Oregon Homes Directory. Oregon MLS

OnTheAvenues SEO

2009-09-23T13:22:00.001-07:00

Great place for information related to SEO, search engine optimization as it relates to web sites, blogs, and using SEO techniques for social networking and more. Latest news, processes and answers to questions to help you perform better on the internet by knowing how to use the proper resources

in reference to: Facebook | OnTheAvenues (view on Google Sidewiki)

Best Forex Program Reviews. Top Forex Software Reviews.

2009-09-23T10:17:00.001-07:00

Unbiased Forex Software Reviews, Forex Program Reviews. Using the best Forex software will net you more in forex returns!

in reference to:

"Best Forex Program Reviews. Top Forex Software Reviews.Unbiased Forex Software Reviews, Forex Program Reviews. Using the best Forex software will net you more in forex returns!"
- Best Forex Program Reviews. Top Forex Software Reviews. (view on Google Sidewiki)

Trailer Life. RV Living

2009-09-23T10:15:00.003-07:00

For People On The Road! Resource Guide For Trailers, 5th Wheels, MotorCoach. Trailer Living honors those folks who enjoy the freedom of being able to pick up and go whenever they wish. From trailer humor, trailer park living tips to useful RV, 5th wheel, motorcoach info to trailer parks and National parks information, RV cooking and so much more. We make trailer living and RV-ing hip, cool and fun.

in reference to: Trailer Life. RV, 5th Wheel, Motorcoach Resources. (view on Google Sidewiki)

Trailer Life. RV Living

2009-09-23T10:15:00.001-07:00

in reference to: Trailer Life. RV, 5th Wheel, Motorcoach Resources. (view on Google Sidewiki)

Real Estate Info. Phoenix AZ

2009-09-23T09:34:00.001-07:00

Helpful group of realtor's from The Cutty Group providing insight into the real estate market, home loans, home buying, foreclosures,bank owned,short sales, home market news and all things real estate

in reference to: Facebook | The Cutty Group (view on Google Sidewiki)

Healthiest Housing Markets for 2009

2009-02-24T10:14:00.001-07:00

The Healthiest Housing Markets for 2009
Builder, in conjunction with Hanley Wood Market Intelligence, debuts its metric for determining markets with the best and least potential.
By: Boyce Thompson

With most economists and builders expecting a national market decline this year, this may not seem like the best time to be selecting the "healthiest" markets in the country. Virtually every market was down last year. But a close look at the numbers reveals that some markets have way outperformed others during the last four years and are likely to continue to do so this year.

When the housing market stages its official recovery, the markets listed on the following pages are likely to lead the parade. It may take a year or more for the weakest markets--where burgeoning foreclosure sales are still pounding new home values, making building and selling new homes an exercise in futility-- to finally stage a turnaround. We’ll present that list next week.

The healthiest markets have many things in common. Most of them are great places to live, either close to the ocean, mountains, or major universities. Most of them didn’t have a huge run-up in prices during the boom and aren’t experiencing rampant deflation during the bust.

To compile these lists, we analyzed the top 75 housing markets in the country. We ranked them based on population trends and job growth, perennial drivers of housing demand. We also examined what’s happened with home prices; many of the healthiest markets have managed to hold the line on home values. And finally, we considered the rate building permits, which may be the single best ongoing indicator of builder confidence in a market. We combined all these metrics to produce a score for each market. Here are the top 15, in reverse order.

15. Myrtle Beach, S.C.
2008 total building permits: 3,211

Though permit activity dropped sharply last year, Myrtle Beach remains one of the hottest markets in the country, especially when you analyze the number of permits pulled per resident. Only 263,287 people live in the Myrtle Beach metro area, which until recently had been growing its population by nearly 5 percent a year. That means builders pulled one permit for every 82 residents. A steady influx of people, many of them retirees, are drawn by close proximity to the ocean and 117 golf courses at last count. That has helped keep home prices steady; they fell only 10 percent last year to a very affordable $174,800. Most of the home building is split between Brunswick and New Hanover counties. Jobs are dependent on the tourist industry, though, and the metro area was rocked last year when a $400 million rock-and-roll themed amusement part, Hard Rock Park, opened and then filed for bankruptcy. Myrtle Beach added jobs last year, but as of December employment was decreasing at a 4.2 percent rate compared to a year earlier.

14. Wilmington, N.C.
2008 total building permits: 3,551

Wilmington has the second highest ratio of permits pulled per resident, behind only Myrtle Beach. The population here, 352,919 by Census estimates, has been growing at a 4 percent annual rate for the last five years, well above the national average. Primary residents are drawn by a four-season climate, close proximity to Atlantic beaches, and affordable housing. Median home prices, at $198,700, are just about the national average. The area gave back 1,000 jobs last year, after gaining 19,000 the previous three years. Wilmington has had a 60 percent decline in permit activity since 2005, around the national average, but its track record for population growth helps it make this list.

13. Charlotte, N.C.
2008 total building permits: 12,231

People and businesses must love Charlotte, because they are moving there at a high rate. The metro area of 1.74 million has grown its residents by 4 percent annually over the last five years, one of the highest rates in the country. They are drawn by relatively affordable housing for the east coast—median home prices are only $210,900, and they’ve only "corrected" downward by only 4.2 percent in the last year. A strong fourth quarter helped Charlotte record 12,231 permits last year, only a 44 percent decline since 2005. Charlotte’s strength relative to other markets led the investment banking firm UBS to predict last year that it would be one of the first markets to recover from the housing downturn. Charlotte is still a single-family market, with 62 percent of the residential activity in stand-alone homes. The job market in this banking hub contracted last year, after growing 3 to 5 percent annually the previous three years.

12. Denver, Col. 2008 total building permits: 8,800

Denver has been all over the home building news of late, with Beazer and Centex leaving town, then Village Homes of Colorado declaring bankruptcy. But the market hasn’t been hit as hard by the home building recession as other Western markets, in part because it didn’t experience rampant price appreciation during the boom. That’s partly because there’s lots of land available to develop in Denver. The median price of an existing home here was still an affordable $225,100 in the third quarter of last year, down only 11.4 percent in the last year (through 3Q 08). Denver enjoys one of the highest population growth rates in the country--2 percent annually for each of the last five years. Builders pulled 8,800 permits in Denver last year, down from 20,864 in 2005, a percentage decline that’s close to the national average. Denver is buoyed by a strong commercial real estate market.

11. Nashville, Tenn. 2008 total building permits: 8,142

Nashville, the 20th largest home building market, operated under the radar of the national housing boom. It didn’t ramp up wildly during the boom years, and it’s not contracting viciously during the bust. Median home prices remain an affordable $152,100, propped up by a growing job base. Eighty percent of the residential construction is single-family. Some of the market’s resilience stems from above-average population growth of about 2.3 percent a year. Back in the day, 2005, Nashville accounted for 16,654 permits; it now runs at about half that level. But that’s a better performance than most major markets.

10. Washington DC 2008 total building permits: 11,693

Washington D.C. showed signs last summer that it might be emerging from the downturn, then it turned south again. Even so, the area produces a ton of jobs—an estimated 35,000 in the last year—that fuel a vibrant housing market, the 11th largest in the country. Many of the jobs stem from contracts with the federal government. Washington D.C. remains a relatively unaffordable place to live, with a median home price of $332,700 in the third quarter of last year. But values have fallen only 24 percent in the last year in part because the population continues to grow—an average of 1 percent annually over the last five years. Home building patterns have changed dramatically in the nation’s capital with builders mothballing subdivisions well beyond the beltway and focusing on infill opportunities. The region remains one of the worst in the nation for commuters.

9. Fayetteville, Ark. 2008 total building permits: 2,989

Fayetteville has made some important lists in recent years. Located in the foothills of the Ozarks and within an easy drive of Wal-Mart’s corporate headquarters, it has recently been named one of the best places to live (by Kiplinger) and to do business (by Inc.). Employment, which had been strongly positive since 2005, dropped somewhat in the fourth quarter of last year. Recent layoffs at Wal-Mart’s corporate office sent tremors through the market. But several Fortune 500 companies that sell products to Wal-Mart have established offices here, and they have helped Fayetteville achieve one of the lowest unemployment rates in the country, 4.1 percent in the fourth quarter. The University of Arkansas is also located in Fayetteville, and it has helped attract start-up businesses. Residents are drawn by an affordable housing stock; median prices average only $139,400, below the national average, and they’ve lost only 2.4 percent of their value in the last year. Builders pulled only 2,989 residential permits last year, down from 7, 449 in 2005.

8. Indianapolis, Ind. 2008 total building permits: 7,004

Builders are still pulling permits at a relatively healthy rate in Indianapolis, despite a virtually flat job market. Unlike other major markets that have become multifamily-oriented, single family still accounts for two-thirds of home building activity. Ultra-affordable housing accounts for some of the activity—the median price of a home here is only $117,900, making it one of the most affordable markets in the country. As a result, home prices have declined only 4.5 percent in the last year. At the top of the market in 2005, builders in Indianapolis took down 15,619 permits, so activity is down 55 percent, slightly better than the national average. Unfortunately, the relative health of the market wasn’t enough to keep Davis Homes, one of the area’s largest private builders, from going out of business last year.

7. Seattle, Wash. 2008 total building permits: 13,021

Seattle, a city of 3.4 million people, last year weighed in as the eighth largest home building market. Residential construction activity here, as measured by permits, is off only 50 percent since 2005, much better than most markets. Seattle has steadily transitioned during the last 10 years from an affordable to an upscale housing market, with the median price of an existing home reaching above $350,000. Even so, existing home prices fell only 11 percent in the last year. One of the secrets to Seattle’s success is that it has added lots of jobs in recent years; and held on to them last year. Some builders there have even stepped up their land buying in anticipation of a market recovery. As the city has become more urban, the share of single family to multifamily permits has reversed; multifamily now accounts for 58 percent of activity.

6. Raleigh, N.C. 2008 total building permits: 11,386

Another state capital with multiple universities, Raleigh was still adding jobs at a 1.9 percent annual rate though the third quarter of last year. With a population of more than 1 million, it also has one of the highest rates of population growth of any top metro market in the country over the last five years: nearly 5 percent annually. Though the price of a median home here, $221,900, is above the national average, it is well below other cities in the mid-Atlantic and Northeast. The metro area has added roughly 68,000 jobs since 2005, and employment held steady last year. With a glut of national builders in the market, locals such as Dixon Kirby have experimented with different looks and styles to keep sales alive.

5. Dallas, Texas 2008 total building permits: 26,145

In a year when permits declined 35 percent nationally, Dallas only experienced a 9 percent fall-off. With a population of 4.2 million, Dallas was the third largest home building market last year, as measured in permits pulled. Employers in Dallas, a popular place for corporate relocation and expansion, added 42,000 jobs last year, a growth rate of 2 percent. Existing home prices have held steady, falling a paltry 2.3 percent in the last year, Interestingly, the face of residential construction has changed dramatically in Dallas in recent years; 58 percent of the activity last year was in multifamily, compared to a five-year average of 23 percent. The relative stability of the market, though, wasn’t enough to prevent Wall Homes from filing for bankruptcy earlier this year. On the other hand, former Meritage co-CEO John Landon recently started a new Dallas-based home building company.

4. San Antonio, Texas 2008 total building permits: 10,261

San Antonio is another Texas market that is still adding jobs, about 15,000 last year. A city of more than 2 million people now, its population is also growing, at a 2.8 percent annual clip through the third quarter of last year. Existing home prices are barely declining in San Antonio, down only 1.8 percent in the last year, leaving the median price of an existing single-family home at an affordable $154,400, 25 percent below the national average of $200,500, according to the National Association of Realtors. The upper end of the housing market was hurt recently when AT&T announced it would be moving its corporate headquarters to Dallas.

3. Fort Worth, Texas 2008 Total Building Permits: 10,388

Fort Worth, always operating in the shadow of higher profile Dallas, nevertheless can currently claim to have a slightly healthier housing market, based on its employment growth, relatively strong permit activity, and inexpensive housing. Now the 14th largest home building market in the country, Ft. Worth’s builders pulled 10,388 permits last year, roughly two-thirds of them single-family. That may be half as many as 2005, but many other major markets showed much sharper drop-offs. The relative strength of the Fort Worth market in recent years stems from its ties to the oil and gas industries, which has fueled above-average job growth. The metro area added 17,300 jobs last year.

2. Austin, Texas 2008 Total Building Permits: 14,250

Nine years ago, during the tech bust, some builders felt that Austin was too crowded and left. The bloom is back on Austin’s yellow rose now; it moved up the leader board to become the sixth largest home building market last year. Job creation explains the move. While other markets lost employment, Austin added 17,400 jobs last year, 2.31 percent growth rate. It helps that Austin is home to both a major university, The University of Texas, and the state capital. Existing homes cost a little bit more in Austin than other Texas markets, roughly $190,900, but that’s still below the national average. Also, Austin is one of the few metro areas in the country where median prices actually rose in 2008--1.4 percent through the first three quarters of the year. Amazingly, Austin now generates more home building activity than Chicago, which has six times more people.

1. Houston, Texas 2008 Total Building Permits: 42,697
They like to do things big in Houston. Now the metro area, home to nearly 5.8 million people, can lay claim to being the largest home building market in the country, with 42,697 building permits. The market is still benefiting from an influx of population and jobs and rebuilding in the wake of Hurricane Ike. Employment rose 2.2 percent last year, representing the addition of an incredible 57,000 jobs. Home building activity in Houston has only fallen 31 percent since 2005. Also, existing home prices actually rose in Houston last year, 2.8 percent, to $160,200, still a very affordable level. Roughly one third of the home building action is in Harris County, followed by Houston proper and Fort Bend County. One of Houston’s largest builders, Royce Homes, shut down last year, and Kimball Hill, one of the biggest builders in Texas, closed its doors this year after it failed to find a buyer.

Baker City Oregon. Baker City Oregon Real Estate. Northwest Oregon Living

2008-07-29T13:24:00.004-07:00

Baker City Oregon. Baker City Oregon Real Estate. Northwest Oregon Living

The historic town of Baker City sits at the base of the rugged Elkhorn Mountains on the old Oregon Trail. Established by emigrants traveling west during the 19th century, Baker City is best known for the role it played during the Oregon gold rush of the 1860s. The discovery of gold at nearby Powder River in 1861 transformed the small pioneer town of Baker to a seat of commerce almost over night. By the early 1900s, Baker City was considered the largest city between Salt Lake City and Portland and served as a major destination for thousands of west-bound travelers in search of a better, richer life.

If you are considering buying or selling property, planning to relocate, looking for Baker City Or homes for sale, or looking for any other information about real estate in Baker City Oregon, or the surrounding areas, you have come to the right place. You can also find a Baker City real estate agents, REALTOR or real estate broker to help you with you buy or sell a home, and find information about tacoma communities , schools, real estate market conditions, recreation and much more! Search the Baker City OR MLS for all home listings

Nowadays, Baker City gleans almost as much fame from its proximity to the Hells Canyon National Recreation Area and surrounding national parks. Cradled between two sections of the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest and surrounded by numerous natural sights, Baker City offers an almost unlimited list of recreational opportunities to the traveler. The gorgeous Hells Canyon Byway juts into the Baker Valley as it descends from Flagstaff Hill, home of the National Oregon Trail Interpretive Center.

The city has maintained much of its 19th century architecture and old world charm, and celebrates its early western history with a series of festivals throughout the year. Its Fall Festival acknowledges the area’s agricultural heritage with cook-offs and other events. The Miners’ Jubilee, in July, celebrates Baker City’s history as an early mining town. Numerous accommodations are available throughout the city, ranging from bed and breakfast inns to hotels and motels. Various campgrounds and RV parks are also available.

Hells Canyon National Recreation Area is located at the northern tip of the Oregon-Idaho border. Comprising more than 600,000 acres of rugged, pristine wilderness and located in one of the most remote sections of the contiguous 48 states, it is a landscape that all but defies comparison. It is home to the deepest river chasm on the continent and three of North America’s Wild and Scenic rivers. It is characterized by some of the hottest summer temperatures and most forbidding winters in the Northwest. Even today, more than 100 years after the Nez Perce tribes were driven from the area in support of European settlement, the lands surrounding the NRA remain sparsely populated and roads remain in some places, little better than the wagon trails that were forged a century ago.

Straddling the Oregon-Idaho perimeter is the actual Hells Canyon, approximately 120 miles of basalt, limestone and granite canyon walls that have been scored by thousands of years of coursing water. In some places, the rock face towers as high as a mile above the Snake River, creating a chasm that would dwarf the highest rim of the Grand Canyon. Considered the largest tributary to the mighty Columbia River, the Snake is known throughout the world not only for its beauty and size, but its ideal river-rafting opportunities.

The Hells Canyon National Recreational Area offers spectacular opportunities for the adventurer who enjoys taking wilderness on its own terms. Visitors should be aware that there are limited roads in the NRA. Boaters should confirm their intended embarking/disembarking points before launching, as motor vehicles are permitted only in designated areas.

Hells Canyon Visitor Association. 800 Port Drive, Clarkston, WA 99403. Phone: 509-758-7489; Toll-free: 1-877-774-7248.

Hells Canyon Shuttle, Inc. Located at: Scotty's Hells Canyon Outdoor Supply, PO Box 149, Oxbow, OR 97840. Toll-free: 1-800-785-3358. E-mail

Museums and Exhibits
National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center. 22267 Oregon Highway 86, P.O. Box 987, Baker City, Oregon 97814-0987. Phone: 541-523-1843; FAX: 541-523-1834. Email N 44,48.877; W 117,43.707.

The National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center is located five miles east of Baker City, Oregon, on Highway 86, Exit 302 from Interstate 84, 125 miles northwest of Boise, 95 miles southeast of Pendlelton.

The Oregon Trail Shop. Attn: Dept. W, PO Box 987, Baker City, OR 97814. Phone: 541-523-1844; FAX: 541-523-1855.

The Oregon Trail Shop, located inside the Interpretive Center (see above), offers a wide selection of merchandise: books, tapes and CDs, gifts and souvenirs, T-shirts, sweatshirts, educational items, and specialty reproduction items related to Oregon Trail history and the six themes presented in exhibits and programs at the Center. Operated by Trail Tenders, Inc., all proceeds are directed toward educational programs and projects at the Center.

Oregon Trail Regional Museum. 2480 Grove, Baker City, OR 97814. Phone: 541-523-9308.

Railroad Exhibits and Tours
Sumpter Valley Railroad. P.O. Box 389, Baker City, OR 97814-0389Phone: 541-894-2268; Toll Free: 866-894-2268; Fax: 541-894-2331. Email

Bend Oregon. Living In Bend OR. Life In Bend OR

2008-07-29T13:15:00.005-07:00

Bend Oregon. Living In Bend OR. Life In Bend OR

The city of Bend is central Oregon’s recreational haven.

Flanked on the west by the Cascade Range and large tracts of Ponderosa Pine forest, Bend serves as a gateway for some of the state’s most popular recreational attractions. The Deschutes National Forest and Mt. Batchelor Ski Area both lie within easy commute of the city, offering numerous locations for mountain biking, hiking, camping, skiing and snowboarding. Central Oregon’s semi-desert panorama provides further opportunities for horseback riding, rock and fossil hunting, wildlife viewing and ecological explorations. Other nearby attractions include the Newberry National Volcanic Monument and Crater Lake National Park.

Bend OR Real Estate

If you are considering buying or selling property, planning to relocate, looking for Bend OR homes for sale, or looking for any other information about real estate in Bend OR Real Estate, or the surrounding areas, you have come to the right place. You can also find a Bend OR Real Estate real estate agents, REALTOR or real estate broker to help you with you buy or sell a home, and find information about tacoma communities , schools, real estate market conditions, recreation and much more! Search the Bend OR Real Estate MLS for all home listings

Bend’s semi-arid surroundings are set off by the picturesque Deschutes River, which runs through the center of town and is a magnet for fly fishing enthusiasts. There are several outfitters in and around the Bend area that specialize in steelhead and Redsides fly fishing.

The Deschutes River is also known as a prime white water rafting location. Warm summer temperatures and Class III and V rapids make this an ideal rafting location.

But Bend isn’t just known for its outdoor activities. The largest city in central Oregon, it has a vibrant nightlife and excellent dining locations. Several breweries make Bend their home. Its various festivals include the Wine by the River festival, showcasing Oregon wines; the Bend film festival and the Balloons over Bend hot air balloon festival.

Located at the crossroads of Highways 97 and 20, Bend is easily accessible from major Pacific Northwest cities such as Portland and Eugene, Oregon and Seattle, Washington. The Bend-Redmond Airport is serviced by several major carriers and is an easy commute from town center.

Museums
High Desert Museum. 59800 S. Highway 97, Bed, OR 07702. Phone: 541-382-4754.
Monuments

The Newberry National Volcanic MonumentLocated about ten miles south of Bend, Newberry is one of the nation's newest national monuments. Established by Congress in 1990, the monument features unique geologic landforms in a 55,500 acre area. Newberry Crater holds two alpine lakes, East and Paulina. Seven campgrounds in the Crater offer shoreline camping, boat ramps, sanitary facilities, group camping, and a horse camp with equestrian trails. In the winter, the Crater is a popular destination for both snowmobilers and cross-country skiers.
Newberry National Volcanic National Monument. (USFG web)

State Parks
Pilot Butte State Park. There is no fee to use this park. For information, call 1-800-551-6949. Lat: N 44,03.632; Long: W 121,16.996.

Golf
Juniper Golf Course. Phone: 541-548-3121.
Rivers Edge Golf Course. Phone: 541-389-2828.

Skiing and Snowboarding
Mt. Bachelor. Mt. Bachelor Corp. Office, 335 SW Century Drive, Bend, OR 97702. Mail: Mt. Bachelor, Inc., P.O. Box 1031, Bend, OR 97709. Phone (snow report): 541-382-7888; Toll-free: 1-800-987-9968; Fax: 541-382-6536. E-mail

High Cascade Snowboard Camp. P.O. Box 6622, Bend, OR 97708. Toll Free: 800-334-4272. Email

Whitewater Rafting
River Drifters Whitewater Tours, Inc. P.O. Box 7962, Bend, OR 97708. Toll-free: 1-800-972-0430, or 1-800-226-1001; Fax: 240-414-0854.

Sun Country Tours. 531 SW 13th, Bend, OR 97762. Phone: 541-382-6227; Toll-free: 1-800-770-2161; Fax: 541-330-2608. E-mail

Home Prices Fall At Record Rate. Oregon Real Estate

2008-06-24T12:12:00.001-07:00

Home Prices Fall At Record Rate

Associated Press: U.S. home prices tumbled in April at the fastest rate since a widely followed index was begun in 2000 with all 20 metropolitan areas surveyed posting annual declines for the first time.

The Standard & Poor's/Case-Shiller home price index of 20 cities fell by 15.3 percent in April versus a year ago, according to Tuesday's report. Prices nationwide are at levels not seen since August 2004.

The narrower 10-city index declined 16.3 percent in April, its biggest decline in its more than two-decade history.

Meanwhile, a report from the Office of Federal Housing Enterprise Oversight said U.S. home prices fell 4.6 percent in April from the same month last year, when the index peaked. That marked the biggest decline ever in the agency's monthly index which dates back to January 1991.

The government index is calculated using mortgage loans of $417,000 or less.

While the government report has shown nationwide price declines, the Case-Shiller index has shown far greater drops because it focuses on larger cities where prices rose further during the boom years, and includes riskier loans.

No surveyed city stayed above water, according to the Case-Shiller index. The last holdout, Charlotte, N.C., finally succumbed to the national housing downturn, with prices there slipping 0.1 percent from a year ago.

Las Vegas and Miami both continue to post the largest declines, falling 26.8 percent and 26.7 percent, respectively.

However, the annual declines in Denver, Dallas and Cleveland were less severe than in the previous month, but Maureen Maitland, a S&P vice president, is reluctant to peg that as an indication of stabilization.

“We wouldn't call a trend on one-month data,” she said.

The report also showed prices in eight metro areas increased in April from March, but the gains could be seasonal blips as the home-buying spring season starts up rather than a sign of a turnaround, Maitland said.

The housing slump, along with higher food and fuel prices and disruptions in the credit markets, has taken its toll on consumer sentiment.

An industry group Tuesday said U.S. consumer confidence fell unexpectedly sharply in June to the fifth-lowest level ever. The Conference Board's reading of consumers' expectations also hit an all-time low.

Ready to find a home at a great price in the Phoenix Metro Area. Speak To A Professional Oregon Realtor NOW. They can show you foreclosures, Short Sales, REO, as well as any and all homes for sale in the Oregon. Search the complete Oregon MLS Free

Portland Oregon Major Events

2008-06-19T19:48:00.003-07:00

Portland Oregon Major Events

January Chinese New Year Celebration
Held in late January -- early February
Location: Classical Chinese Garden
(503)228-8131
In keeping with over 4,000 years of Chinese tradition, the Portland Classical Chinese Garden welcomes the New Year with an exuberant and colorful celebration. For two weeks, the Garden showcases a number of activities for the whole family which include: lion dances, knot tying and paper cutting crafts, storytelling, martial arts demonstrations, and an art exhibit featuring David Lee. The Garden's Annual Chinese New Year Plant Sale, its largest plant sale of the year, delights the senses with fragrant orchids, citrus, witch hazel, quince, Chinese paper-bush and more.

March

Spring Beer & Wine Fest
Held in late March
Location: Oregon Convention Center
(503)238-3770
Annual Spring Beer & Wine Fest is one of the nation's largest "spring-time" alcoholic events held annually at Easter time and encourages responsible drinking.

St. Patrick's Irish Festival
Held in mid March
Location: Kells Irish Pub
(503)227-4057
Kells is host to the annual Portland St. Patrick's Irish Festival, one of the largest on the west coast; a live music filled event for the entire family.

June

Portland Arts Festival
Held in mid June
Location: South Park Blocks
(503)227-2681
The Portland Arts Festival is one of the region's largest and most significant visual arts events.

July

Oregon Brewers Festival
Held in late July
Location: Governor Tom McCall Waterfront Park
(503)778-5917
The Oregon Brewers Festival features handcrafted beers from 72 of the top craft breweries from around the country. The festival is considered one of the finest craft beer festivals in the nation. Joining the breweries are industry exhibits, vendors, restaurants and live entertainment.

Waterfront Blues Festival
Held in early July
Location: Tom McCall Waterfront Park
(503)973-3378
One of the largest blues festival in the U.S., the Annual Waterfront Blues Festival features four days and nights of top name blues acts, workshops, food vendors and more.

August

Homowo Festival of African Arts
Held in early August
Location: South Park Blocks
(503)288-3025
The annual Homowo Festival of African Arts is a two-day community-wide event featuring jubilant African music and dance performances, food, arts and crafts, storytelling and more.

Annual Mount Hood Huckleberry Festival & Barlow Trail Days
Held in late August
Location: Mount Hood Village
(503)622-4798
This festival has something for everyone: live music, Native American storytelling, singing, drumming and dancing; salmon bake and many food offerings, all featuring huckleberries. The carpool tour of the Barlow Trail, which became the first toll road over the Cascade Mountain Range, views remnants of the historic wilderness path including ruts and swales of the long gone Prairie Schooners and struggles of the Eden-seeking emigrants.

Annual Festa Italiana
Held in late August
Location: Pioneer Courthouse Square
(503)644-5041
An international array of entertainers provides singing, folk dancing, strolling musicians and puppet shows. The festival is complete with authentic Italian food, wine and beer; raffles, kid's events and merchandise.

Oregon International Air Show
Held in mid August
Location: Hillsboro Airport
(503)629-0706
The annual Air show features the nationally renowned U.S. Navy Blue Angels jet team including death defying aerial acts, military fly-bys, historic aircraft, static displays and a spectacular evening of pyrotechnics and fireworks.

September

Cascade AIDS Walk
Held in late September
Location: Pioneer Courthouse Square
(503)223-WALK
Annual AIDS walk with family, friends, and co-workers. Thousands of walkers raise urgently needed funds, honor friends and loved-ones lost to AIDS or living with HIV/AIDS and send the message that the crisis is not over and together the course of the pandemic can be changed.

Annual Oregon Polish Festival
Held in late September
Location: St. Stanislaus Polish Catholic Church
(503)286-3776
This ethnic celebration is one of the largest Polish festivals in the Western US. Included in the festival are rich, homemade, cream-cheese filled pierogies Polish entrees, soups, pastries and of course kielbasa sausages. The last day concludes with a "Let's Gdansk" street dance.
PICA Time Based Art Festival
Held in mid September
Location: Portland Institute for Contemporary Art
(503)242-1419
PICA's annual Time-Based Art Festival brings artists and audiences from around the world to Portland's urban core for 10 days of performance, lectures, workshops, parties and happenings.

October

El Dia de Los Muertos Festival
Held in mid October -- mid November
Location: Miracle Theatre, Portland
(503)236-7253
Every year, the dead are commemorated in a lively show of dance, music and theatre in Portland's only annual Day of the Dead Celebration. Join everyone for an extraordinary bilingual journey through the traditions of this colorful Mexican festival.

November

Annual Beaujolais Nouveau Wine Festival
Held in mid November
Location: The Heathman Restaurant
(503)292-6871

The French American Chamber of Commerce announces the annual event. The event celebrates the arrival of the first, fresh "new wine vintage" - the famous Beaujolais Nouveau of the Beaujolais region of France, whose ceremonial uncorking announces the end of the harvest season in the countryside and in the cafes of France.

Tiny Treasures
Held in early -- late November
Location: Yoshida's Fine Art Gallery
(503)223-9463
In keeping with the spirit of Christmas by providing exquisite, one-of-a-kind creations; Yoshida's Gallery presents their annual miniature show with work represented by some of the gallery's top-selling artists.

Meier & Frank Holiday Parade
Held in late November
Location: Downtown Portland
(503)241-3900
Kick off the holiday season with this annual event for the whole family.
Christmas Festival of Lights at the Grotto
Held in late November -- late December
Location: The Grotto
(503)261-2400
Welcoming visitors annually, this ecumenical lighting and music festival is quite possibly the largest Christmas choral festival of its kind in the world. The Festival features 140 holiday music concerts performed in The Grotto's 600-seat chapel with over 5,000 singers and musicians giving their gift of music during the annual celebration.

December

Annual Holiday Box
Held in early -- late December
Location: Portland Window Project
A changing display of desirable art by gallery artists fills the PDX Window Project; the selection rotates frequently.

Handel's Messiah
Held in mid December
Location: First Baptist Flanagan
(503)222-6000
Portland Baroque Orchestra brings audiences home for the holidays with its annual performances of Handel's enduring Messiah.

Christmas Festival of Lights at the Grotto
Held in late November -- late December
Location: The Grotto
(503)261-2400
Welcoming visitors annually, this ecumenical lighting and music festival is quite possibly the largest Christmas choral festival of its kind in the world. The Festival features 140 holiday music concerts performed in The Grotto's 600-seat chapel with over 5,000 singers and musicians giving their gift of music during the annual celebration.

Entertainment:
Artists Repertory Theatre
1516 S.W. Alder St.
Portland, OR 97205
(503)241-1278
Call for performance schedule

BodyVox Contemporary Dance Company
1300 N.W. Northrup St.
Portland, OR 97209
(503)229-0627
Call for performance schedule
Beyond poetry in motion, BodyVox is freewheeling imagination unbound. A fresh, lively blend of bold athleticism and creative choreography.

Chamber Music Northwest
522 S.W. Fifth Ave.,
Portland, OR 97204
(503)223-3202
Call for performance schedule

Interstate Firehouse Cultural Center
5340 N. Interstate Ave.
Portland, OR 97217
(503)823-4322
Call for performance schedule
The Interstate Firehouse Cultural Center, a community-based arts center, is committed to creating an environment in which people of every ethnic/cultural background come together as artists and audience to explore, preserve and celebrate their diversity.

Lakewood Center for the Arts
368 S. State St.
Lake Oswego, OR 97034
(503)635-6338
Call for performance schedule

Miracle Theatre Group
425 S.E. Sixth Ave.
Portland, OR 97214
(503)236-7253
Call for performance schedule
Miracle produces a broad array of programming that includes public performances as well as specialized touring and education projects that currently encompass all of the Western states.

Oregon Ballet Theatre
818 S.E. Sixth Ave.
Portland, OR 97214
(503)227-0977
Call for performance schedule

Oregon Symphony
921 S.W. Washington St.
Portland, OR 97205
(503)228-4294
Call for performance schedule

Portland Baroque Orchestra
1020 S.W. Taylor
Suite 275
Portland, OR 97205
(503)222-6000
Call for performance schedule

Portland Center for the Performing Arts
1111 S.W. Broadway
Portland, OR 97205-2999
(503)274-6557
Call for performance schedule

Portland Opera
211 S.E. Caruthers
Portland, OR 97214
(503)241-1407
Call for performance schedule

Portland Symphonic Choir
921 S.W. Morrison
Portland, OR 97205
(503)223-1217
Call for performance schedule

Sports:
Portland Trailblazers
Profession NBA Basketball
Games played at the Rose Garden
(503)224-4400
Season runs October -- April

Portland Rockies
Minor league baseball
Games played at the Civic Stadium
(503)223-2837
Season runs April -- October

Portland Fire
WNBA Basketball
Games played at the Rose Garden
(503)797-9601
Call for schedule and additional information

Portland Oregon. Living In Portland OR

2008-06-19T19:40:00.003-07:00

Portland Oregon. Living In Portland OR

Portland Oregon (OR) started as a spot known as "The Clearing" which was on the Willamette about half-way between Oregon City and Fort Vancouver. In 1843, William Overton saw great commercial potential for this land; his only problem was that he lacked the quarter needed to file a land claim. So, he struck a bargain with his partner Asa Lovejoy: for 25 cents, Overton would share his claim to the 640 acre site.

Bored with clearing trees and building roads, Overton sold his half of the claim to Francis W. Pettygrove. When it came time to name their new town, Pettygrove and Lovejoy each wanted to name it after his home town. They settled the argument with a coin toss. Pettygrove won, and named it after Portland, Maine; had Lovejoy won, he intended to name it after Boston, Massachusetts.

In its early years, Portland existed in the shadow of Oregon City, the territorial capital twelve miles upstream on the falls of the Willamette. However, Portland was located at the Willamette's head of navigation, the furthest point inland one could reliably reach by ship. This gave it a key advantage over its older peer. It also triumphed over early rivals like Milwaukie. By 1850 Portland had approximately 800 inhabitants, a steam sawmill, a log cabin hotel, and a newspaper, called the Weekly Oregonian.

Portland was the major port in the Pacific Northwest for much of the 19th century, until the 1890s when direct railroad access between the deep water harbor in Seattle and points east by way of Stampede Pass were built. Goods could then be transported from the northwest coast to inland cities without needing to navigate the dangerous bar at the mouth of the Columbia.

Once known as America's best kept secret, Portland is now one of the country's hottest travel destinations. Money magazine recently ranked Portland #2 among Big Cities in which to live in the U.S., and its unique and thriving festivals, outdoors and dining scenes keep it consistently among the travel hotspots. Portland has the personality of a small community and the activities and vitality of a large city.

With moderate temperatures and varied and beautiful terrain, Portland is the quintessential outdoor city. The magnificent waterways overlook the Mount Hood glacier, a backdrop that sets the scene for a spectacular visit at any time of year. Forest Park offers 40 miles of wilderness trails, streams and woods within the city limits. Hiking, biking and exploring opportunities are always close at hand. Smith and Bybee Lakes display stunning wildlife and have great flatwater paddling in America's largest protected wetland within a city. Just a short drive away, is magnificent Multnomah Falls, the nation's second-highest year-round waterfall. For a mellower outdoors experience, visit one of the city's stunning gardens: the Leach Botanical, Classical Chinese, Japanese, or Crystal Springs Rhododendron Gardens.

Chances are good that the city will be bustling with a festival when you arrive. Favorites include the Rose Festival in June, and The Bite of Oregon food and music fete in August.
The always popular Oregon Brewers Festival in July can be combined with a tour and sampling at one of the many excellent, local microbreweries. Tours of local vineyards and distilleries provide further tastings of family- produced, distinctive wines and brandies prepared by using the finest fruit and centuries-old methods.

Whether you travel around Portland by train, bike or on foot, a clear and unobstructed view is guaranteed. Building height restrictions prevent the beauty and majesty of Mount Hood from ever being blocked. Speaking of Mount Hood, with four ski resorts and North America's longest ski season (including 90 summer days), this 11,235-foot peak is a mecca for skiers, ice climbers, snowboarders and hikers. The surrounding wilderness boasts spectacular trails for snowshoeing as well as cross-country skiing. All of this is just an hour's drive from Portland's city center. Long recognized as a fisherman's haven, the Pacific Northwest is rich with steelhead, trout and sturgeon.

Portland's history unfolds and the past comes alive as the carefully preserved landmark attractions are visited. Pittock Mansion reveals the day to day activities of the original Portlanders.

The Portland Art Museum showcases impressive touring exhibitions and permanent collections of American, European, Asian, Native American and contemporary art. View area history from an environmental point of view at the Hoyt Arboretum, where trees and plants are protected and nourished for the enjoyment of future generations. For families, there is also the Portland Zoo, the Children's Museum, and the Museum of Science and Industry.

For a change of pace, be sure to visit the numerous gourmet coffee shops, Powell's City of Books with more than a million volumes, the Brew 'N View Movie Theaters where comfortable couches, pizza, and beer accompany the movies, the local gardens and galleries: all of which made Portland famous.

Finally, don't leave Portland without sampling some fine local fare. The region's renowned seafood, berries, pears, cherries, hazelnuts, wild game and vegetables of all kinds inspired noted chef and Portland native, James Beard. This in turn laid the foundation for his lifelong dedication to fine cooking, simple menus and fresh ingredients. The tradition continues, and Portland is known for its superb cuisine and exceptional dining.

Culture and art; the Trailblazers and the Hawks; Mount Hood with its tempting menu of year round outdoor activities; fine wines, beers, and restaurants; farmers markets and excellent shopping: these are just a few of the many reasons to visit and enjoy Portland, Oregon.

Oregon State History. Oregon State Facts

2008-06-19T19:24:00.006-07:00

Oregon State Facts. Oregon State History

Fast Facts
State: Oregon
Statehood: 14 February, 1859
Area: 98,386 sq miles
Size: 9th largest in USA
Population: 2006: 3,700,758
State Capital: Salem
State Nickname: Beaver State

Oregon History

The first inhabitants of what is now the Pacific Northwest were nomadic hunter-gatherers who lived in small bands. On the Pacific coast and the major coastal river valleys, they evolved societies based on fishing, whaling and scavenging from the sea. They included the Quinault, Quileute, Chinook and Tillamooks. Summer and fall were dedicated to harvesting and storing the bounty of the sea, but the long winter months were given over to activities other than subsistence, enabling the Northwest Coastal Indians to reach a degree of sophistication unmatched by most other native American cultures.

Inland, on the arid plateaus between the Cascades and the Rocky Mountains, a culture developed based on seasonal migration between rivers and temperate uplands. These tribes, which included the Nez Perce, Cayuse and Spokane, shared cultural traits with both the coastal Indians and plains Indians from east of the Rockies. They lived by catching freshwater fish, gathering fruit and hunting deer and elk.

The Pacific Northwest was one of the last areas to be explored by Europeans. Although the Spaniard Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo sailed to the mouth of Oregon's Rogue River in 1543, incisive exploration of the area didn't take place until the 18th century. Rumours of a Northwest passage sent England, Spain, Russia, and a fledgling United States scrambling to find it first. Lewis and Clark travelled overland across the region during their 1804-1806 expedition, but none of these early explorations led directly to the establishment of a settlement. The Northwest Passage proved elusive, but these explorers did discover the abundance of the Northwest's fur-bearing wildlife, and the profits to be made in the peltry trade.

The last two decades of the 18th century were a boom time for maritime merchants whose ships entered the waters of the Northwest and traded cloth and trinkets with natives in return for pelts of sea otters. They then set sail for China, where the skins were traded for tea and luxury goods. The war of 1812 with Great Britain (a sideline of the wider Napoleonic Wars in Europe) made maritime commerce dangerous so fur trading forts gradually spread west from the Great Lakes and Hudson Bay.By 1827, Russia and Spain had both backed off from their claims to the region (by now known as the Oregon Territory).

The English and Americans jointly exploited the area's resources but were forbidden to establish an official government by a codicil to the Treaty of Ghent which ended the War of 1812. The de facto government was the British Hudson Bay Company, which managed the fur trade. A vote held in 1843 by the 700 rag-tag residents of the Oregon Territory in the Willamette Valley - a mixture of Protestant missionaries, retired trappers, mountain men and their native American wives - gave full administration of the area to the United States. By this time, the 2,000-mile-long Oregon Trail had begun to bring settlers from Independence, Missouri to Oregon City in the Willamette Valley.

Between 1843 and 1860 the 53,000 settlers set out on the six-month journey along the trail and by the late 1860's, much of the Pacific Northwest was settled. Latter-day Oregonians have always made much of the assumedly stellar qualities of these early settlers, and it is true that the trail was an arduous undertaking. But those who chose to travel it had to be able to afford not just a wagon or two, but also livestock and sufficient foodstuffs for six months. In other words, the Northwest was eventually settled, not by penniless wanderers but economically solid, enterprising people from established backgrounds who knew a good thing when they saw one. All this speedy development took its toll, however. The long domination of the Northwest by the fur companies decimated the region's wildlife, especially its populations of otter and beaver. Native American cultures were corrupted by alcohol, tribes were decimated by disease and Methodist missionaries separated Native American children from their families.

The coastal Indians were rounded up and marched or shipped to reservations in 1855, where increased illness, starvation and dislocation led to the extinction of many tribes. The Native Americans east of the Cascades resisted settlers in a series of fierce battles between 1855 and 1877, but also ended up on reservations, deracinated, alienated from their traditional culture and dependent on government subsidies.

By 1883, the Pacific Northwest coast was connected to the eastern states by railroad. Portland became a conduit for agricultural produce from inland and quickly became one of the world's largest wheat-shipment ports. The region received massive government grants for infrastructure projects in the 20th century, including a series of dams on the Columbia River which provided cheap electricity and fuelled industrial growth in Puget Sound. The dams also provided vital irrigation enabling marginal land east of the Cascades to be planted by farmers. The downside was the severe depletion of salmon stocks in many rivers because the hydroelectric dams hindered the salmon's migration.Despite growing industrialisation around the Puget Sound, most of the Pacific Northwest had a fairly pastoral existence during the first half of the 20th century.

Home of the USA's logging industry, the area maintained a woodsy, rugged and sleepy way of life until the rise of the Seattle aeroplane manufacturer Boeing. The manufacturer of the first 747s injected huge amounts of cash into the region and was responsible for attracting supporting industry to the area. Seattle is still very much Boeing's fiefdom, though Microsoft has also made the city its home. Logging is still a major industry, especially in Oregon which leads the nation in lumber production. Burgeoning environmental concerns have pressured federal and state governments to restrict logging on public land, crippling much of the established forest-products industry but protecting vast swathes of woodland.

The Pacific Northwest was Indian land before the first European explorers sailed along its coast. Sir Francis Drake touched the southern coast in 1579 on his search for a northern sea passage from the Pacific to the Atlantic.

In 1788, along with others, Robert Gray, American sea captain, entered Oregon, the first white men known to do so. George Vancouver came in 1792 and that same year, Robert Gray in his ship 'Columbia', discovered the river which he named after his vessel. Lewis and Clark led the first overland expedition to the Oregon Territory in 1805-06. Their expedition gave the United States a strong claim to the Oregon Country against the claims of the British. Oregon's settlement really began in 1811 with the founding of Astoria by John Jacob Astor's fur company. Although this enterprise was short lived, the successor British firm, the Northwest Company, and later the Hudson's Bay Company, led by Dr. John McLoughlin, was the dominate factor in the region's economy and government.

In 1834, Methodist missionaries established the first permanent American settlement in the Willamette Valley. Reports of the region's agricultural promise, new opportunities, and healthy climate began to attract interest.

The first important overland migration came in 1843 when about 900 pioneers made the 2000 mile, four to six month journey along the Oregon Trail to settle in the Willamette Valley. By 1845, as many as 3000 had traversed the Oregon Trail. To make their living most pioneers depended upon agriculture, and although many crops were tried, wheat was the staple. With the discovery of gold in California in 1848, the settlers began shipping their crops southward.

The California export trade gave rise to urban rivalries in Oregon. The United States Government created the Oregon Territory in 1849. In 1853, Oregon's present boundaries were set that seperated Oregon from Washington at the Columbia River. Oregon became the nation's 33rd state on February 14, 1859.

State of Oregon

Capital: Salem PoP: 142,914
Statehood: February 14, 1859 - 33rd state admitted
Nickname: Beaver State
Motto: Alis Volat Propiis (She Flies With Her Own Wings)
State Bird: Western Meadowlark
Flower: Oregon Grape
Tree: Douglas Fir
State Song: Oregon, My Oregon

These Facts are just Estimates

Median Age: Median Age year 2007: 37

Median value of owner-occupied housing units, 2000 $152,100

Owner-occupied homes: 939,123

Median value: 236,600

Median of selected monthly owner costs: With a mortgage: $1,412

Median household income, 2004 $42,568

Owner-occupied housing units:939,123

Renter-occupied housing units: 510,539

Persons under 5 years old, percent, 2005 6.2% 6.8%
Persons under 18 years old, percent, 2005 23.3% 24.8%
Persons 65 years old and over, percent, 2005 12.9% 12.4%
Female persons, percent, 2005 50.3%

Population 25 years and over Estimate: 2,501,372

White persons, percent, 2005 (a) 90.8%
Black persons, percent, 2005 (a) 1.8% 12.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native persons, percent, 2005 (a) 1.4% 1.0%
Asian persons, percent, 2005 (a) 3.4% 4.3%
Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander, percent, 2005 (a) 0.3% 0.2%
Persons reporting two or more races, percent, 2005 2.3% 1.5%
Persons of Hispanic or Latino origin, percent, 2005 (b) 9.9% 14.4%
White persons not Hispanic, percent, 2005 81.6%

High school graduates, percent of persons age 25+, 2000 85.1% 80.4%
Bachelor's degree or higher, pct of persons age 25+, 2000 25.1%

Persons per square mile 36

Mean travel time to work (minutes), workers age 16+, 2000 22.2

Women-owned firms, percent, 2002 29.5%

Persons below poverty, percent, 2004 12.9%

Land area, 2000 (square miles) 95,996.79

Central Oregon. Central Oregon Cities. Central Oregon Living

2008-06-18T15:22:00.002-07:00

Central Oregon. Central Oregon Cities. Central Oregon Living

CITIES: Antelope, Arlington, Bend, Brothers, Condon, Culver, Dufur, Fossil, Grass Valley, Hampton, Lonerock, Madras, Maupin, Metolius, Mitchell, Moro, Mosier, Paulina, Post, Prineville, Redmond, Rowena, Rufus, Shaniko, Spray, The Dalles, Wasco

Central Oregon, considered by many to be a recreational paradise, is one of the state's fastest growing regions. Rimmed on the west by the Deschutes River and on the east by forests and lush farmland, Oregon's heartland is a fusion of topography. Its northern border is framed by the mighty Columbia River, which Lewis and Clark once navigated en route to the Pacific Ocean. Its southern boundary is characterized by long stretches of high desert, known as much for their prehistoric fossil remains as for the exceptionally small towns that dot Oregon's back roads.

Founded more than a century ago by Oregon Trail emigrants, Central Oregon is home to the burgeoning city of Bend, which has more than tripled its population in the last 15 years. Recreational attractions such as the Newberry National Volcanic Monument and the exceptional ski and snowboarding opportunities of the nearby Cascade Mountains make Bend an irresistible choice for many. It's exceptionally arid climate and frequent blue skies are reminiscent of Southern California escapes that offer a blend of urban and semi-rural attractions' along with the open backcountry terrain that has made the Northwest famous.

Central Oregon's true claim to fame however, may be its accessibility. Less than 3 hours from both Portland and Eugene, Oregon and two hours from Oregon's historic Crater Lake, Bend and nearby attractions are relatively easy to reach. A good road system links Oregon's heartland with outlying regions and lends to numerous driving tours. For those who can't make up their minds between windsailing on the Columbia, hiking the backcountry of the Ochoco National Forest and surveying Oregon's unusual prehistoric fossil remains, diversity is at easy reach.

Southern Oregon. Southern Oregon Cities. Southern Oregon Living

2008-06-18T15:16:00.002-07:00

Southern Oregon. Southern Oregon Cities. Southern Oregon Living

CITIES: Ashland, Butte Falls, Cave Junction, Canyonville, Central Point, Dillard, Drain, Eagle Point, Elkton, Glendale, Glide, Gold Hill, Grants Pass, Jacksonville, Klamath Falls, Malin, Medford, Merlin, Myrtle Creek, Oakland, Phoenix, Prospect, Riddle, Rouge River, Roseburg, Shady Cove, Sutherlin, Talent, Umpqua, White City, Winchester, Winston, Wolf Creek, Yoncalla

AREAS: Applegate Valley, Illinois Valley

Southern Oregon is a land of dramatic contrasts. Marked by spectacular mountains, deep lakes, rich valleys and arid deserts, the southern Oregon region extends from the California border, north to the shores of the Umpqua River. Mountain ranges hem in some of the region's most captivating valleys, providing lush countryside for hiking, camping, fly-fishing and river rafting.

At the southeastern edge of the region is Klamath Falls. Oregon's desert country starts here and is home to the Lava Beds National Monument. Approximately 55 miles west of Klamath Falls, is the city of Ashland and Oregon's most southern ski area, Mt. Ashland. Known for its vibrant art community and many festivals, Ashland attracts visitors year-round.

North of Ashland is Medford, the hub of the Rogue Valley. Famous for its wines, cheeses and specialty products, it is situated near the stunning Applegate Valley and historic town of Jacksonville. On the northern tip of the Applegate Valley is Grants Pass, a starting point to exploring the historic Rogue River.

The southern region of Oregon is linked together by Interstate 5, the north-south corridor of the Western United States. The small country town of Drain marks the northern tip of the Southern Oregon region, accessible from all points north and south by Highway 5. To the west of Drain is the beautiful Umpqua valley and historic Elkton, gateway to Oregon's spectacular west coast.

World-class wineries and farmers' markets are hallmarks of Southern Oregon and are easily reached by Highway 5 and adjoining roads. Driving tours offer an interesting and enjoyable way to sample the many attractions and activities that comprise the Southern Oregon area.

Cave Junction and the Illinois Valley

Cave Junction and Illinois Valley

Oregon Caves National MonumentSouth of Grants Pass on U.S. Highway 199 and East of Cave Jct. on State Highway 46. Above ground, the 480- acre site encompasses a remnant old-growth coniferous forest harboring an array of plants and a Douglas fir tree with the widest known girth in Oregon. Three hiking trails access this forest. Below ground is an active marble cave created by natural forces over thousands of years. For a fee, a private concessionaire will provide tours of the cave.

Out 'n' About Treesort & Treehouse Institute.
300 Page Creek Road, Cave Junction, OR 97523. Phone: 541-592-2208

The Idle Wild
Based on the CD-ROM product, explore with maps and images, the wilderness areas of southern Oregon and northern California, including Crater Lake and Rogue Gorge.

Southern Oregon Bed and Breakfast Inns - Southern Oregon

Southern Oregon State Parks

Southern Oregon Directory

Southern Oregon Vacation Guide
This web site of the Southern Oregon Visitors Association includes information and links on the region's counties, as well as outdoor adventures, road tours, camping, museums, and Native American resources.

Applegate Valley
Murphy, Oregon and the Applegate Valley
Applegate Forest Explorer

Southeast Oregon. Southeast Oregon Towns. Southeast Oregon Living

2008-06-18T14:42:00.002-07:00

Southeast Oregon Cities and Towns. Living In Southwest Oregon

Adel, Adrian, Burns, Diamond, Drewsey, Frenchglen, Hines, Jordan Valley, Juntura, Lakeview, Nyssa, Ontario, Plush, Vale

Southeast Oregon has been ranching territory for more than a hundred years, but the myriad of rivers, lakes and reservoirs that populate its arid countryside makes it one of the most popular outdoor recreation areas in the state. Rivers, such as the mighty Snake, which forms the border of Ontario and Idaho, and the Owyhee, north of Rome, are famous for their class III, and IV river rafting opportunities. The reservoirs that dot the sagebrush topography of Oregon’s driest region not only hydrate a thirsty landscape but provide numerous locations for fishing for largemouth bass, crappie and rainbow trout.

Dotted by dozens of small towns, many of which are the historic remains of 19th-century pioneer homesteads, Southeast Oregon is rich with history. The Native Indians who populated this region for thousands of years proved that even the highest desert and driest landscape is fertile. The emigrants who followed built ranching empires and cities from its soil, proving still further that commercial success rests not with topography, but with the indomitable spirit of the pioneer.

For the 21st –century traveler, Southeast Oregon offers a rich legacy of historic and natural wonders. Rock hounds will be at home in the desolate deserts around Burns where thousands of years have baked trees and other natural remnants into fossilized remains. Bird enthusiasts can enjoy an annual bird festival or take a tour of a wildlife refuge that President Theodore Roosevelt established in 1908. Those who enjoy nature just by admiring it will have plenty to marvel at while touring the glaciated canyons and overlooks of Steens Mountain Loop, just south of Malheur Lake. Southeastern Oregon, fringed only at its northern edges by national forest land, is a region rich with history and awe-inspiring natural beauty.

Willamette Valley Oregon Living

2008-06-17T12:35:00.002-07:00

Willamette Valley Oregon Living

Albany, Alsea, Amity, Aumsville, Aurora, Brooks, Brownsville, Canby, Canyonville, Carlton, Corvallis, Coburg, Cottage Grove, Creswell, Culp Creek, Dallas, Dayton, Detroit, Donald, Dundee, Eugene, Falls City, Gates, Gervais, Halsey, Harrisburg, Independence, Jefferson, Junction City, Keizer, Lebanon, Lowell, Lyons, McMinnville, Mill City, Millersburg, Mt.Angel, Molalla, Monmouth, Newberg, Oakridge, Oregon City, Philomath, Salem, Scio, Scott Mills, Sheridan, Silverton, Sodaville, Springfield, Stayton, St. Paul, Sublimity, Sweet Home, Tangerit, Turner, Veneta, Walterville, Waterloo, Willamina, Woodburn, Yamhill

The Willamette Valley, located at the foot of the Oregon Coast Range, comprises some of the most fertile and lush farmland in the Northwest. Stretching from just below the Oregon-Washington border to the city of Eugene, the Willamette Valley has long been considered the heartbeat of Oregon. Nineteenth century pioneers following the Oregon Trail were drawn by its Eden-like reputation for abundant land, idyllic beauty and ample resources. These first emigrants did not turn to farming to make a living, but rather to profitable gains of the lumber and fur trades. It was not until later that Oregon's farming industries truly took shape.

Now containing Oregon's largest metropolitan area, the Willamette Valley is considered the state's economic center and is home to more than 2 million people. At its northern tip lies Portland, Oregon's largest city and cultural center. The evidence of Oregon's 19th century homesteaders can still be seen today in the Portland vicinity, where historic landmarks such as Oregon City still flourish.

The Willamette Valley is best known for its agricultural accomplishments, which include a flourishing wine industry. The valley is actually divided into two distinct appellations, although both are known for their rich and robust Pinot Noir and exceptional Pinot Gris. Hazelnuts, raspberries, blackberries and surprisingly, Christmas trees, are major exports of the Willamette Valley area.

Massive flood waters helped shape this valley more than 10,000 years ago, when the glacial waters of Lake Missoula washed over areas of Oregon and Washington's western regions in a series of periodic floods. The result was a transplantation of rich volcanic soil from eastern Washington to western Oregon, where the moist, cool winds of the Pacific Ocean continue to nurture Oregon's most abundant agricultural region.

Oregon Coast. Oregon Coast Info. Oregon Coast Living

2008-06-17T12:31:00.002-07:00

Oregon Coast. Oregon Coast Info. Oregon Coast Living

North Coast
Arch Cape, Astoria, Bay City, Beaver, Cannon Beach, Garibaldi, Gearhart, Hebo, Nehalem, Manzanita, Neahkahnie, Neskowin, Oceanside, Pacific City, Rockaway Beach, Seaside, Tillamook, Warrenton, Wheeler

Central Coast
Depoe Bay, Dunes City, Florence, Gleneden Beach, Lincoln Beach, Lincoln City, Mapleton, Newport, Otter Rock, Reedsport, Seal Rock, Siletz, Toledo, Waldport, Winchester Bay, Yachats

South Coast
Agness, Bandon, Brookings, Charleston, Coos Bay, Coquille, Gold Beach, Lakeside, Myrtle Point, North Bend, Port Orford, Powers, Wedderburn

The Oregon Coast is proof of the Northwest’s amazing diversity. Stretching from the port town of Astoria, at the windy mouth of the Columbia River, south to the temperate shores of Brookings/Harbor at the California border, Oregon’s 350-mile coastline is anything but mundane. Populated by small and mid-size towns that have come to be known for their remote, resort-like atmosphere and their defiant ability to endure Mother Nature’s coastal tempests, the Oregon Coast region is in many ways, a world unto itself.

While good roads link U.S. Highway 101 (the coast’s major highway) with Highway 5 and cities like Portland and Eugene, getting to some parts of the coast can take a bit of time. The southern towns of Port Orford and Pistol River, which are separated from Highway 5 by the formidable Oregon Coast Range, can only be accessed via a northern or southern route. But then, experiencing the drive to Oregon’s more remote locations is part of experiencing her beauty.

Weather on the Oregon Coast can also be variable. While it is possible to see snow in Astoria and Warrenton during the months of January or February, temperatures in Gold Beach and Coos Bay rarely dip below freezing during the winter. Rain however, is a fact of life up and down the coast, which supports a lush and fertile ecosystem and is bordered by temperate rainforest.

Oregon’s coastal cities have a rhythm and pace all of their own. Restaurants, festivals, activities and attractions often reflect the ecological ties of a given area. It is difficult to experience Gold Beach without experiencing a river ride, or to understand coastal history without visiting one of the many wind-buffeted lighthouses. To experience the Oregon Coast is to experience the very elements that have shaped its history - and its awe-inspiring beauty

Northeast Oregon. Northeast Oregon Living

2008-06-17T12:28:00.002-07:00

Northeast Oregon. Northeast Oregon Living

CITIES: Adams, Arlington, Athena, Baker City, Boardman, Canyon City, Condon, Cove, Dayville, Echo, Elgin, Enterprise, Fossil, Greenhorn, Haines, Halfway, Heppner, Hermiston, Huntington, Imbler, Imnaha, Irrigon, Island City, John Day, Joseph, La Grande, Lexington, Long Creek, Lostine, Medical Springs, Milton-Freewater, Monument, Mt Vernon, North Powder, Oxbow, Pendleton, Pilot Rock, Prairie City, Richland, Seneca, Summerville, Sumpter, Ukiah, Umatilla, Union, Unity, Wallowa, Weston

AREAS: Hell's Canyon

Northeast Oregon, rimmed on the east by the mighty Hells Canyon, is a land of contrasts. It is known for its lush, fertile farmlands and its awe-inspiring chasms. Home to the deepest gorge in North America, it is considered by some to be a symbol of the Northwest’s historic claim as this continent’s last great frontier.

At least five grand rivers intersect this region. The Snake, comprising Oregon’s rugged eastern border, is known for its jaw-dropping scenery and challenging rapids. Millions of people may have rafted these waters, but the Snake remains one of the Northwestern United States’ most dominating waterways. Other rivers, such as the Imnaha, which intersects the Snake at the northeast tip of this region, the Columbia and the John Day have played their own roles in nurturing this landscape into one of North America’s most popular adventure destinations.

Blanketed by three different national forests, the Northeast Region is a recreational paradise. The area is renowned for its steelhead, rainbow and bullhead trout fishing, particularly on the Grande Ronde, Imnaha and Wallowa rivers. The pristine alpine lakes of 341,446-acre Eagle Cap Wilderness (located in the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest) have their own attraction for those who enjoy the solitude of a remote natural paradise.

But Northeast Oregon isn’t just about wilderness, or the spectacular beauty of untouched nature. The small communities that pocket Oregon’s northeast corner tell their own unique story. Historical landmarks dating back to the Nez Perce’s domain hundreds of years ago can be found throughout this region, as can various cities and towns that were founded by European settlers in the late 1800s. The Oregon Trail Interpretive Center and Tamastslikt Cultural Institute, both in La Grande, offer two fascinating reflections of this region’s history and the people who call Oregon’s most remote region home.

Portland Oregon and Vicinity. Portland Oregon Living

2008-06-17T12:24:00.003-07:00

Portland and Vicinity
Banks, Barlow, Beaverton, Camas, Canby, Clackamas, Clatskanie, Columbia City, Cornelius, Forest Grove, Gaston, Gresham, Happy Valley, Hillsboro, Lake Oswego, Marquam, Milwaukie, Molalla, North Plains, Oregon City, Portland, Rainier, Sandy, Scappoose, St. Helens, Tigard, Troutdale, Tualatin, Vernonia, West Linn, Wilsonville

Portland's attractiveness as a premier destination spot includes the rich diversity of its outlying districts. Surrounding the downtown area is a composite of small, intriguing cities and neighborhoods, each with its own unique flavor and historical relevance. Exploring the surrounding environs can offer hours, if not days of enjoyment, especially for visitors who enjoy delving into the history and cultural diversity of the Northwest.

The town of Beaverton, eight miles southwest of Portland on Highway 217, is home to more than 90 different parks, bike and hiking trails, including the Progress Downs Municipal 18-hole golf course.

Milwaukie, known as the "City of Dogwoods," is nestled between the city of Portland and historic Oregon City at the junction of Highways 99E and 224. Recreational opportunities include whitewater kayaking, fishing, hiking, and mountain biking. The popular Milwaukie River Fest features Dragon Boat races, live music and Independence Day celebrations. An authentic World War II B17G bomber gives tribute to the men and women who served in WWII.

Oregon City was once the territorial capital of Oregon. The Clackamas County Historical Society Museum, Stevens-Crawford Museum and the End of the Oregon Trail Interpretive Center all highlight the courageous life of early 19th-century pioneers.

Lake Oswego, located 10 miles south of Portland on the west bank of the Willamette River, can be reached by trolley from Portland. The town offers a walking tour of well-preserved Gothic, Craftsman, Vernacular, English Cottage and Colonial Revival architecture.

Gresham, known as the "City of Music," marking the northwest outskirts of Portland, is home to the world famous Mt. Hood Jazz Festival. Gresham's proximity to the Columbia River Gorge and Mt. Hood National Forest provides excellent opportunities for numerous outdoor activities, such as wind surfing, camping, biking and cross-country skiing.

Oregon Cascade Mountains. Oregon Cascade Mountains Living

2008-06-17T12:19:00.002-07:00

Oregon Cascade Mountains. Oregon Cascade Mountains Real Estate

Cascade Mountains
CITIES: Brightwood, Camp Sherman, Cascade Locks, Cascadia, Chemult, Chiloquin, Crescent, Crescent Lake, Detroit, Diamond Lake, Drew, Estacada, Fort Klamath, Gates, Gilchrist, Government Camp, Idanha, Klamath Agency, La Pine, Lakeview, McKenzie Bridge, Mill City, North Umpqua, Oakridge, Prospect, Rhododendron, Sandy, Sisters, Sunriver, Warm Springs, Welches, Westfir, Zigzag

AREAS: Crater Lake National Park, Deshutes National Forest, Fremont National Forest, Mount Hood National Forest, Rogue River National Forest, The Three Sisters, Umpqua National Forest, Willamette National Forest, Winema National Forest

Oregon Cascade Mountains

Dominated by approximately 700 miles of the Cascade Mountain Range, the Oregon Cascades region is legendary for its recreational opportunities. The region is home to seven different national forests and is best known for Oregon's highest mountain, Mount Hood, and the nearby recreation area, the Columbia River Gorge.

Approximately four million people visit the Mount Hood National Forest each year, which extends from the shores of the Columbia Gorge to the foot of Mount Jefferson, some 60 miles south. The Mount Hood Scenic Byway provides an awe-inspiring view of dormant volcano, whose last recorded eruption was barely 200 years ago, shortly before Lewis and Clark's famed expedition. The byway also skirts several other memorable sights, such as the 1930's Timberline Lodge, now a national historic landmark.

Crater Lake National Park, at the southern end of the Oregon Cascade region, may not receive the numbers of visitors that Mount Hood does, but it its unique beauty has been dazzling visitors for thousands of years, since Native Americans first stood upon its shores. Today, a half-million people make the trek to the national park, which is located a couple of hours' drive from Central Point and Medford.

The Oregon Cascades region is best known of course, for its excellent skiing and backcountry recreation opportunities. Ski areas pepper the slopes from Mount Hood near the state's northern border, all the way to Mount Ashland, in the south. But there are also numerous scenic drives and circle tours that visitors can take that will offer a unique glimpse at small towns and communities that make up this fascinating region.

Oregon Cities and Towns. Oregon Regional Areas

2008-06-17T12:11:00.003-07:00

Oregon Cities and Towns. Oregon Regional Areas

Cascade Mountains
CITIES: Brightwood, Camp Sherman, Cascade Locks, Cascadia, Chemult, Chiloquin, Crescent, Crescent Lake, Detroit, Diamond Lake, Drew, Estacada, Fort Klamath, Gates, Gilchrist, Government Camp, Idanha, Klamath Agency, La Pine, Lakeview, McKenzie Bridge, Mill City, North Umpqua, Oakridge, Prospect, Rhododendron, Sandy, Sisters, Sunriver, Warm Springs, Welches, Westfir, Zigzag

AREAS: Crater Lake National Park, Deshutes National Forest, Fremont National Forest, Mount Hood National Forest, Rogue River National Forest, The Three Sisters, Umpqua National Forest, Willamette National Forest, Winema National Forest

Central Oregon
CITIES: Antelope, Arlington, Bend, Brothers, Condon, Culver, Dufur, Fossil, Grass Valley, Hampton, Lonerock, Madras, Maupin, Metolius, Mitchell, Moro, Mosier, Paulina, Post, Prineville, Redmond, Rowena, Rufus, Shaniko, Spray, The Dalles, Wasco

Northeast Oregon
CITIES: Adams, Arlington, Athena, Baker City, Boardman, Canyon City, Condon, Cove, Dayville, Echo, Elgin, Enterprise, Fossil, Greenhorn, Haines, Halfway, Heppner, Hermiston, Huntington, Imbler, Imnaha, Irrigon, Island City, John Day, Joseph, La Grande, Lexington, Long Creek, Lostine, Medical Springs, Milton-Freewater, Monument, Mt Vernon, North Powder, Oxbow, Pendleton, Pilot Rock, Prairie City, Richland, Seneca, Summerville, Sumpter, Ukiah, Umatilla, Union, Unity, Wallowa, Weston
AREAS: Hell's Canyon

Oregon Coast
North Coast
Arch Cape, Astoria, Bay City, Beaver, Cannon Beach, Garibaldi, Gearhart, Hebo, Nehalem, Manzanita, Neahkahnie, Neskowin, Oceanside, Pacific City, Rockaway Beach, Seaside, Tillamook, Warrenton, Wheeler

Central Coast
Depoe Bay, Dunes City, Florence, Gleneden Beach, Lincoln Beach, Lincoln City, Mapleton, Newport, Otter Rock, Reedsport, Seal Rock, Siletz, Toledo, Waldport, Winchester Bay, Yachats

South Coast
Agness, Bandon, Brookings, Charleston, Coos Bay, Coquille, Gold Beach, Lakeside, Myrtle Point, North Bend, Port Orford, Powers, Wedderburn

Portland and Vicinity
Banks, Barlow, Beaverton, Camas, Canby, Clackamas, Clatskanie, Columbia City, Cornelius, Forest Grove, Gaston, Gresham, Happy Valley, Hillsboro, Lake Oswego, Marquam, Milwaukie, Molalla, North Plains, Oregon City, Portland, Rainier, Sandy, Scappoose, St. Helens, Tigard, Troutdale, Tualatin, Vernonia, West Linn, Wilsonville

Southeast Oregon
Adel, Adrian, Burns, Diamond, Drewsey, Frenchglen, Hines, Jordan Valley, Juntura, Lakeview, Nyssa, Ontario, Plush, Vale

Southern Oregon
CITIES: Ashland, Butte Falls, Cave Junction, Canyonville, Central Point, Dillard, Drain, Eagle Point, Elkton, Glendale, Glide, Gold Hill, Grants Pass, Jacksonville, Klamath Falls, Malin, Medford, Merlin, Myrtle Creek, Oakland, Phoenix, Prospect, Riddle, Rouge River, Roseburg, Shady Cove, Sutherlin, Talent, Umpqua, White City, Winchester, Winston, Wolf Creek, Yoncalla
AREAS: Applegate Valley, Illinois Valley

Willamette Valley
Albany, Alsea, Amity, Aumsville, Aurora, Brooks, Brownsville, Canby, Canyonville, Carlton, Corvallis, Coburg, Cottage Grove, Creswell, Culp Creek, Dallas, Dayton, Detroit, Donald, Dundee, Eugene, Falls City, Gates, Gervais, Halsey, Harrisburg, Independence, Jefferson, Junction City, Keizer, Lebanon, Lowell, Lyons, McMinnville, Mill City, Millersburg, Mt.Angel, Molalla, Monmouth, Newberg, Oakridge, Oregon City, Philomath, Salem, Scio, Scott Mills, Sheridan, Silverton, Sodaville, Springfield, Stayton, St. Paul, Sublimity, Sweet Home, Tangerit, Turner, Veneta, Walterville, Waterloo, Willamina, Woodburn, Yamhill