12 Things You Want to Do in Albany This September

Albany is joining in on First Friday activities. On September 7th, make it an afternoon and evening out in historic downtown. Our restaurants and brew pubs will be hopping, serving a variety of specialties from cheese platters to Hungarian food—plus local spirits, wines, and beer. Walk along the Willamette River and meander back to the Commercial District for a bit of art-gazing and shopping. Many downtown businesses will participate in First Friday extended shopping hours. So don’t be a stranger, make a great start to your September.

September 7th Come paint rocks with local artists and the Linn County Rocks Facebook group. Start your First Friday out in the afternoon at the Albany Historic Carousel Rock Painting Party. This is a free, all-ages event, taking place from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Take a ride or two on the carousel and enjoy the day. Make it a date and plan on dinner at one of our great downtown eateries. 

September 7th Start your First Friday night out by experiencing the exhibits and history of our city at the Albany Regional Museum. Extended hours on First Fridays run from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Museum admission is free to all. The museum is located at 136 SE Lyon St.

September 7th Why not check the vintage clothing and antique shops or the Albany Antique Mall for a funky felt fedora or a beaded flapper dress, and then head over to the First Friday “Speak Easy Party” at the Natty Dresser from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. It’s a prohibition era inspired party with live music by Lonna Capaci and cocktail samples by Vivacity Spirits (all legal for those 21 and over of course). Use the password “moonshine” for a special treat (while supplies last). The shop will show new fall fashions as well. Natty Dresser is located at 425 W 1st Ave.

September 7th Celebrate Gallery Calapooia’s 5th Anniversary (an artist’s collective and gallery) from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. on First Friday. Enjoy wine, munchies, live music, and the work of gallery members. The cooperative will be filled to the rafters with fiber art, jewelry, sculpture, paintings, prints, photography and ceramics. This is a free event. Gallery Calapooia is located at 222 W 1st Ave in downtown Albany.

September 7th Thinking about your fall garden or some great presents for earthy friends on holidays? How about stopping in at Albany’s local garden and urban agriculture store for their first First Friday event. The shop will be open for extended hours from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Urban Ag Supply is located across the street from Little Wuestens (where you can nab great desserts, coffee and German food) and the Albany Antique Mall, at 124 SW Ellsworth St.

More great September events 

Following close on the heels of First Friday, there’s plenty to keep you busy. From antique shows and remodeling expos to beer races and live theatrical performances, we’ve got a little bit of everything to fill up your calendar.

September 8th Come on downtown to a free and fun annual event, Antiques in the Streets and Classic Car Show. The show starts on Saturday at 8:00 a.m. for all early-bird treasure hunters and winds down at 3:00 p.m. There will be food carts, live music, and booth after booth of cool vintage finds. Antique and classic cars will be on display for automative buffs.

September 8th As we move firmly into harvest season, the Albany Farmers’ Market is going to be filled with prime ingredients for salsa, soups, and other baking or canning projects. Bins of heirloom tomatoes, garlic, onions, peppers, squash, and fresh greens are brought in from nearby farms. Honey, cheese, baked goods, jams, and coffee from local producers wait to tempt you. So stop by the market between 9:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. on the corner of Ellsworth and Fourth Ave.

September 8th Love craft brews? Wanna get some exercise too? Well save the date for the Albany Beer Run, coming up on Saturday September 8th, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The 0.3K (no excuses couch taters) run starts at Calapooia Brewing Company and ends at Deluxe Brewing. $25 preregistration, $30 day of event, telephone 541-497-1512 for more information.

September 14th through 16th Plan on heading out to the Linn County Fair & Expo Center at 3700 Knox Butte Rd E, for Blackberry Junction, a shabby chic and up-cycled lover’s dream-show. The show starts with a buyer’s special pre-sale on Thursday, Sept 13th at 4:00 p.m., with regular starting hours over Friday and the weekend. Check all hours and other information on the show’s Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/Blackberry-Junction-131375245675/

September 22nd The annual Craft Brew Smackdown takes place on Saturday, Sep 22nd from 2:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. in downtown Albany. This is your opportunity to sample beverages from 24 breweries, cider houses and distilleries, who will offer tastings at downtown businesses. For $20 you get 10 tasting tickets, a pint glass, a map of the locations and a beer passport for your chance to win a prize. Additional tickets are available at the tasting locations, five tickets for $5. This fundraiser is organized and sponsored by the Greater Albany Rotary Club and the Albany Downtown Association. For more information, contact Jessica Pankratz at 541-740-1466.

September 28th and 29th: Check out the new fall production at the Albany Civic Theater, Once Upon a Mattress. This is a musical comedy written as an adaptation of the Hans Christian Andersen fairy tale “The Princess and the Pea.” The performance is set in a fictional medieval kingdom ruled by the devious Queen Aggravain and a mute king Sexitmus who suffers from a curse. The musical runs through October 20th, so head over to ACT’s website for the full performance schedule and ticket information http://www.albanycivic.org/shows/once-upon-a-mattress/

Rose remodel by Powell Construction

September 28th through 30th Albany’s premier fall remodeling and fix-it event bursts at the seams with home improvement ideas and tips from local experts. If you are considering hiring a pro or even doing the work yourself, the Albany Home Show is a must visit for you and your family. The event is held at the Linn County Fair & Expo Center on Knox Butte Rd. Get thousands of home decorating and improvement ideas at the largest ‘hub’ of building and remodeling resources in the area. For more information, email info@wvpevents.com

Make sure to check our full events calendar on the Albany Visitors Association website at albanyvisitors.com. There are many more family oriented activities to enjoy during September. Stop by and see us for a free visitors guide and a copy of “Seems Like Old Times,” a publication that highlights self-guided tours though our three national historic districts. Or, if you like to read info on the fly, check out the free “Albany Explorer App” on Google Play or the Apple App Store. You’ll find restaurants, hotels, interactive maps, digital postcards and ways you can qualify to win special “explorer” swag. 

The 2018 Albany geocache hunt is on

It’s time once again, to join a fun day of discovery through geocaching. Local geocacher and enthusiast Don Bacher has organized the 2018 Albany Coin Challenge that takes place for one day only, Saturday, August 25th.

This year’s event will start at 10:00 a.m. at Allann Bros warehouse, 1852 Fescue St. SE, Exit 233 going north or south on I-5 (N 44 37.497 W 123 03.645). There is plenty of parking.

A new series of Albany locations—homes from the National Historic Districts—have been added to this year’s challenge. As in previous years, the course has been determined, and each geocaching household will be issued a challenge passport. The course has been carefully laid out so that you will also have the opportunity to find caches in the area.

Completed passports can be brought to Ciddici’s Pizza, 133 SW 5th Street (N 44 38.066 W 123 06.229) between 3:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. the day of the event. One-hundred and fifty coins have been ordered, so everyone who receives a passport is guaranteed a coin.

Along with the hunt, there will be great door prizes handed out during the coin distribution. These prizes are donated by local businesses, and drawings will be held on the half hour.

This is a family event and we encourage you to bring your kids and grandkids. There’s something for all ages.

The 2018 coin was created by Jessica Dilbone, and features a design that includes Mary’s Peak, the Willamette and Calapooia Rivers running through Albany, and the fir tree from Oregon’s license plates. Another one-of-a-kind coin that you will be delighted to add to your collection. 

We hope to see you at Allan Bros. on the 25th. Happy hunting!

Albany Carousel’s first birthday

It’s hard to believe that one year has passed since the Albany Historic Carousel & Museum opened its doors to happy crowds in August 2017. (See the carnival anniversary event information below the blog post.)

Thousands from across the US have walked into the carousel’s impressive building and experienced its unique brand of enchantment. Visitors often find themselves instantly drawn to a particular animal—be it a giraffe or bulldog, horse or frog—each creature is a work of art and love that resonates. Albany’s carousel creatures are hand carved and hand-painted by community volunteers and individually take several years to complete.

Recently, I took out-of-town family to the carousel and we concluded that you are never too old to soak up magic. The “kids” I brought were in their 40s and as we looked around, we noticed that many riders were twice that age. Smiles were universal as the carousel began to move. Given that carousels were introduced to America in the late 1880s, it’s no surprise that many of us remember “merry-go-rounds” as part of our childhood experience. 

The Gustav Dentzel family is credited with bringing European carousel production to the US during the Victorian era, and it is one of their original antique mechanisms that drives the Albany carousel today. The 100-year old fir and cast iron gears were donated by Dentzel descendants. It took local volunteers and laborers over a decade to rebuild and refurbish the antique motor, readying it for the grand opening. Long-range planning and organizing by community member Wendy Kirby is one reason the carousel project succeeded. Her determination and spirit was the primary driver behind spinning dreams into reality.

What you’ll discover when you go

Entering through the Albany Carousel doors is an act steeped in whimsy. The door handles are carved fantasies—animals spiraling around a branch, entwined with leaves. As your fingers curl about the handles, you’re touching the work of local artisans.

The great carousel room is filled with light from enormous windows and gentle breezes from overhead ceiling fans. The domed interior is bathed in a soft glow from amber-hued and arched wood beams. Starry-eyed riders eagerly wait their turn, peering through the wrought iron gate. 

Smiling volunteers accept your $2 ride token and help you clamber aboard. Everyone can ride this carousel, as it is accessible to both wheelchairs or those needing a bit of assistance. A step stool is readily available for anyone who’d appreciate an extra boost for climbing onto a tall animal.

After you take a ride (or two or three!), make sure to visit the carving and painting room. A number of animals are still in production, and repairs to the current roster take place downstairs. Visit the in-house museum that includes 100-year old animals, signs, and other memorabilia—many donated by the Dentzel family. Don’t forget to visit the carousel gift shop where you can purchase souvenirs, toys, postcards and presents to take back home.

Blog post by Maddie MacGregor

Celebrate the Carousel’s One Year Anniversary

On Saturday, August 18th, the Albany Carousel is hosting a family event—an old-fashioned carnival to celebrate the first birthday of its grand opening. The carnival is a fundraiser and will feature game booths, photo booths, a bounce house, face painting, shaved ice and kettle corn, and other activities and snacks. The event runs from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The Albany Carousel & Museum is located at 503 W 1st Ave. For more information, visit www.albanycarousel.com or telephone 541-497-2934. 

10 ways to celebrate August in Linn County

July ends with a bang and August starts with a golden glow as wheat fields are harvested and outdoor fun goes full tilt. The following are 10 ways to celebrate and participate in harvest season with friends and family. We’re pretty sure you’ll find at least one to add to your calendar!

(1) July 28th The Albany Historic Homes Interior Tour  Spend a wonderful day in our city exploring some of our most beautiful historic homes and buildings. The tour is “self-guided,” meaning you have a choice about how to tour the homes—you can ride a horse-drawn wagon or antique trolley and go by location-number, or you can opt to drive your own car and visit homes in any order you like. Hosts will be on hand at each site to show guests around and refreshments will be served. Once you’ve purchased your ticket at our office, you might even want to have lunch at one of our great restaurants, ride the carousel, and join the tour afterwards. Tickets go on sale the day of the tour starting at 10:00 a.m. for $15 each; children under 12 are free. For more information, telephone AVA at 541-928-0911. (You can also purchase tickets on AVA’s secure website at https://albanyvisitors.com/…/2018-albany-historic-interior…/ )

(2) July 29th It’s time for the annual Festival Latino at Monteith River Park in Albany. Spend the afternoon, from Noon to 4:00 p.m., listening to great music, enjoying awesome food, and meeting your neighbors. The festival features a children’s activities area, a health and resources fair, and cultural performances. The festival is free to attend (food is available for purchase).

(3) August 3rd Love Celtic music and local wines? Combine your true loves into a Friday evening out! The Dinna Fash Celtic Trio is performing at Mark’s Ridge Winery on Friday, August 3rd, starting at 7:00 p.m. The winery is located at 29255 Berlin Rd in Sweet Home. Visit the winery website for more info: http://www.marksridge.com

(4) Now Through August 4th Happening now at the Albany Civic Theater: “Bell, Book and Candle.” The classic fairytale about a lovable witch comes to the stage. Tickets are available for upcoming performances on July 27, 28, 29 and August 2, 3, and 4. Visit the ACT website for ticket info: http://www.albanycivic.org

(5) August 3rd through 5th: Sweet Home calls all country music lovers for the Oregon Jamboree. This year’s stars include Clint Black, Brantley Gilbert, and Brett Eldredge. This not-to-be-missed musical event boasts two stages, 25 shows, over three days. The Oregon Jamboree is nestled in the foothills of the scenic Cascade Mountains, on 20-plus acres that includes the historic Weddle Covered Bridge. The Jamboree offers a full festival atmosphere in the main venue and a more intimate concert experience on the second stage in Sankey Park. In addition to featured headline entertainment, this event hosts RV and tent camping, merchandise vendors, food booths, beer and wine gardens, and a variety of other attractions. For ticket and other information, visit: http://oregonjamboree.com

(6) August 4th through 5th Time to mark your calendars and get your tickets: The Mother Earth News Fair is coming up on August 4th and 5th at the Linn County Fair & Expo Center in Albany. Two days of workshops on renewable energy, small-scale farming, homesteading, natural health, organic gardening and more! Come enjoy delicious food, family entertainment and a vast marketplace. Check the fair’s website to purchase tickets in advance, and for more detailed information. https://www.motherearthnews.com/…/mother-ea…/albany-ore-fair

(7) August 8th Do you have ancestors or family that settled in Albany? Would you like some tips on researching your Linn County family tree? Then mark Wednesday, August 8th at noon on your calendar. The Albany Regional Museum will host its monthly “History Bites” series and the Linn Genealogical Society will present. For more info visit https://www.armuseum.com

(8) August 18th Join the Albany Historic Carousel & Museum as they celebrate their one year anniversary with a carousel fundraiser: Carnival at the Carousel. Just as the nostalgia of the carousel lights the faces of those who visit, we hope that the nostalgia of a vintage carnival will do the same. Come see carnival games of the past, old-fashioned carnival characters, a cakewalk, carousel-made photo-boards and kissing booth, Kona Ice, Kettle Korn, and a bounce house. For more information visit www.albanycarousel.com

(9) August 19th The first of Albany’s 2018 Farm to Table Dinners takes place on Saturday, August 19th. Dine al fresco along a shaded historic waterway—the Albany 8th Street Canal. Feast on delectable creations by Chef Matt Bennett of Sybaris Bistro and sip locally-grown and crafted Springhill Cellars Winery selections. The menu is based on Cajun Creole cuisine inspired by Chef Bennett’s recent trip to New Orleans. Seating at the dinner is limited and we encourage you to purchase your tickets early for what will no doubt, be a sold-out event. Dinner proceeds will benefit the Albany Regional Museum (ARM) and enable them to continue to offer free admission to all visitors. Hop on over to ARM’s website and get your tickets now! https://squareup.com/store/albany-regional-museum

(10) Aug 24th through August 26th The NW Art & Air Festival may be the the best little late summer festival around! Watch hot air balloons ascend the night sky during the magical night glow event and early dawn flights. The balloon regatta is a colorful affair and Timber Linn Park will be alive with music, artists, family activities (including Young Eagle Flights) and yummy food from a variety of vendors. Musical artists (featuring this year’s headliner “Goo Goo Dolls”) give evening performances. For the adults, there’s a wine and microbrew garden. The festival is free, but parking is $5. Learn more at: http://nwartandair.org

Albany Farm to Table Dinners – 2018 Series

The first of Albany’s 2018 Farm to Table Dinners takes place on Sunday, August 19th. Dine al fresco along a shaded historic waterway—the Albany 8th Street Canal.

Feast on delectable creations by Chef Matt Bennett of Sybaris Bistro and sip locally-grown and crafted Springhill Cellars Winery selections. The menu is based on Cajun Creole cuisine inspired by Chef Bennett’s recent trip to New Orleans.

Seating at the dinner is limited and we encourage you to purchase your tickets early for what will no doubt, be a sold-out event. Dinner proceeds will benefit the Albany Regional Museum and enable them to continue to offer free admission to all visitors.

Tickets

Purchase your tickets online with the Albany Regional Museum.

 

 

2018 Albany Historic Interior Home Tour

Spend a wonderful day on Saturday, July 28th, exploring some of Albany’s most beautiful historic homes and buildings. The tour is “self-guided,” meaning you have a choice about how to tour the sites—you can ride a horse-drawn wagon or antique trolley and go in map order, or you can opt to drive your own car and visit homes and buildings in any order you like. 

Greeters will be on hand at each site to show guests around and refreshments will be served. Once you’ve secured your ticket at our office, you might want to have lunch at one of our great restaurants, ride the carousel and join the tour afterwards. 

Tickets are on sale the day of the tour (at AVA’s office) starting at 10:00 a.m. for $15 each; children under 12 are free. We are located on the corner of Lyon and 3rd Ave SE (110 3rd Ave, SE). You can also prepay for your ticket on our secure-certificate ticketing plug-in below. (Some fields are required so that we may confirm your purchase.) Telephone our office at 541-928-0911 if you have any questions.

10 things to do in Mid-July

Looking for some great things to do following the start of mid-summer? We thought you might like this list of some great Albany and Linn County events coming up this July. Don’t hesitate to contact AVA (541-928-0911) if you need more information about any of the following:

1) Crazy Daze in Downtown Albany – July 12th, 13th, 14th Love to dig around for a bargain? Well how about a downtown-wide sale with many of your favorite stores hosting sidewalk sales! Park your car at one end of First Ave and walk towards the Albany Historic Carousel & Museum, which you can ride after shopping. Unique shops will feature awesome merchandise—including the Natty Dresser, Emma’s Downtown, Urban Ag, Spirit Beads, and many many others. Merchandise changes daily over the three day event, plus Albany restaurants and cafes will feature shopper specials. Tidbit: What’s really cool about this sale is that it is part of Albany’s history—the sale started out as Bargain Days in 1898, then was renamed Crazy Daze following WW2.

2) Coffee, coffee, coffee – Grand Opening of Margin Coffee – July 14th The wait may have been long, but the moment has finally arrived. Albany’s newest gourmet-hip coffee brewery is holding its grand opening celebration at their location (206 2nd Ave SW) in a beautifully restored historic building. Come enjoy specialties of the house made with local roaster Caravan’s beans. Saturday hours on the 14th are from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. so you can shop at Crazy Daze and refuel at Margin! Visit their website at www.margincoffee.com

3) Meet me at the Linn County Fair – July 18th – 21st You know it’s high summer when the fair arrives at the Linn County Fair & Expo Center. There will be rides for kids both big and small, fun food, livestock, quilts, community art and craft, and live entertainment including Jefferson Starship. Family fun areas, a classic car show, the zany Redneck Rodeo, and so much more are scheduled over the four day event. Special military, senior, and family day tickets are available. Check the fair website for the full schedule at https://www.linncountyfair.com/home

4) History Through Headstones Tour – July 25th Come learn about the history of Albany through historic headstones at the Waverly Jewish and Houston Cemeteries. The tour is from 7 p.m. to dusk. The AVA trolley will board passengers at the Albany Regional Museum parking lot (check the museum website for times) and museum docent Bill Maddy will talk about the history of east Albany’s Hackleman District as the trolley wends its way through neighborhoods and along Old Salem Road. Learn about the historic Albany families that will be featured on the Albany Regional Museum website at www.armuseum.com/…/…/history-through-headstones-tour

5) Cellar Cat swings at its new location – July 15th At the end of June, wine-centric bistro Cellar Cat moved to its new location at 155 NW Country Club Lane in Albany. They now feature an all-day kitchen menu serving scratch-made goodies to enjoy on the golf course, patio, dining room, by the pool or take-out. Full-service dinner is Wednesday through Sunday starting at 4:30 p.m. And, on Sundays, live music! On July 15th, the Steve Willis Trio will play instrumental jazz starting at 5:30 p.m. Check out CC’s website for the rest of the Sunday line-ups of music and fantastic menu options. www.cellarcat.com

6) Movies at Monteith Park – July 20th (Fridays through August) Looking for a nostalgic evening after dinner? Plan to bring a blanket and the family to free movies shown outdoors on a big screen under the summer stars. The first movie of the summer, Wonder, starts at 7:00 p.m. on Friday, July 20th. On Friday, July 27th, Jurassic Park hits Monteith Park. For the full schedule, check the Albany Downtown Association website at albanydowntown.com/ada-event/movies-at-monteith/

7) Stand By Me Day – July 23rd Speaking of movies, what could be better than visiting the little town where the cult classic, Stand By Me, was filmed? Head on down to historic Brownsville (about 25 minutes south of Albany) and participate in walking tours, free showings of the movie, and other festivities like a blueberry pie and ice cream social, classic car cruise-in, fan forum, memorabilia, and a 50s costume contest. Check out the full schedule at historicbrownsville.com/what-to-do/attractions/stand-by-me/

8) Cocker Spaniel National Specialty Show – July 26th through 30th Have you ever seen the Walt Disney classic movie “Lady and the Tramp?” The 1950s animated film reflected US mid-century popularity of the Cocker Spaniel, a long-eared, silky-coated, and expressive dog. First mentioned in 14th century writings, the Cocker Spaniel perseveres. Come see these beautiful intelligent dogs at the Linn County Fair & Expo Center over three days of trials and judging. Visit the association club website for show schedule details at www.americanspanielclub.org/events/2018-cocker-spaniel-national/

9) Albany Historic Homes Interior Tour – July 28th Spend a wonderful day in our city exploring some of our most beautiful historic homes and buildings. The tour is “self-guided,” meaning you have a choice about how to tour the sites—you can ride a horse-drawn wagon or antique trolley and go by location-number, or you can opt to drive your own car and visit homes in any order you like. Hosts will be on hand at each site to show guests around and refreshments will be served. Once you’ve purchased your ticket at our office, you might even want to have lunch at one of our great restaurants, ride the carousel, and join the tour afterwards. You’ll receive a wrist band with your paid ticket. Tickets go on sale the day of the tour starting at 10:00 a.m. for $15 each; children under 12 are free. For more information, visit albanyvisitors.com or telephone 541-928-0911.

10) Summer Sounds in the Park – Mondays in July Imagine relaxing outdoors on your own quilt or comfy folding chair and listening to great live music. Sip your own wine or beer, grab soft drinks and food from the vendor court, and take a stroll along the river-front with your sweetheart. The lineup this July runs the gamut from electric string pop to funk, swing, and an Eagles tribute band. The free concerts start at 7:00 pm. on Monday nights. For the full schedule, visit the City of Albany website at www.cityofalbany.net

Bonus) The 2018 -2019 “See Albany” Visitors Guides are here! In addition to a feature article by local journalist Jennifer Moody (about the Albany Historic Carousel’s Neal the Greyhound), you’ll also find information about great restaurants, comfy hotels, outdoor recreation, shopping venues, and Albany’s four National Historic Districts. Stop by the AVA office at 110 3rd St SE in downtown Albany to pick up your free copy or telephone 541-928-0911 and we’ll pop one in the mail for you.

2018 Photo Contest Winners

We had a truly amazing time this year, at the 2018 AVA Photo Contest Awards Ceremony.

The Pix Theater graciously welcomed the public and our entrants for a real treat—viewing nearly 200 photo entries on the big screen.

AVA staff, including Executive Director Jimmie Lucht and Historic Resources Liaison Rebecca Bond, handed out ribbons and awards.

The full list of winners is below the featured video.

Winning Photos

 

2018 Winners

Champion, Cathy Webb, “Honoring the Brave, Vet Parade”
Reserve Champion, Dan Bateman “Sun Kissed Waverly Duck”
People’s Choice, Oliver J. Anderson “River Boy”
Staff Choice, Camron Settlemier, “Last Light”

Category Winners

In addition to the overall winners, 1st, 2nd and 3rd place winners were announced in the following categories:

Scenic 1st Place, Dave Maestas “Heavenly Rays”; 2nd Place, Stephanie Low “Tulips and Horses”; 3rd Place, Katrina Wilson “Riverside Church”

Landmarks 1st Place, Barry Hoffman “Train Station”; 2nd Place, Stephanie Low “Shimanek Bridge”; 3rd Place, Dave Maestas “Timely Sunset”

Open 1st Place, Pavla Zakova-Laney, “Sunset at Crater Lake”; 2nd Place, Melissa Pothakos Slyter, “Fun in the Sun”; 3rd Place, Anna Davidson, “Spring Cheer”

Events 1st Place, Oliver J. Anderson, “Antique St. Car Show 1”; 2nd Place, Stephanie Low, “Launching the Duck”; 3rd Place, Camron Settlemier, “Ready to go Caroling”

Life in the Community 1st Place, Oliver J. Anderson “Reel People”; 2nd Place, Dan Bateman, “Enjoying the Sun”; 3rd Place, Simone Marslee, “That Duck Life”

Historic Albany 1st Place, Pavla Zakova-Laney “Christmas Spirit”; 2nd Place, Oliver J. Anderson, “Albany’s White House”; 3rd Place, Stephanie Low, “Monteith House”

Culinary 1st Place, Dan Bateman “Self-serve Honey”; 2nd Place, Oliver J. Anderson, “Paddle Food”; 3rd Place, Cathy Webb, “Stuffed Bread”

Our heartfelt congratulations to everyone who entered!

About the AVA Photo Contest

The contest is open to photographers of all skill levels and this year 12 talented photographers entered 197 beautiful and creative photos. Prizes this year included ribbons for each winner, Champion, Reserve Champion Staff Choice, and People’s Choice received Pix Theater gift cards.

Winning photos in this year’s photo contest are on display through March at the Albany Visitors Association at 110 3rd Ave SE. All of this year’s entries can be viewed on the Albany Visitors Association Flickr page: https://www.flickr.com/photos/90531885@N07/albums

Ride the 2018 NW Tandem Rally

Get your gears spinning for the 2018 Northwest Tandem Rally (NWTR) coming up June 29th through July 4th. Hosted by the Mid Valley Bicycle Club (MVBC), the NWTR has been an annual event since 1986. The MVBC was founded in 1974 and has hosted this family friendly event four times previously.

If you’ve biked the Mid-Willamette Valley before, you’re most likely familiar with our abundance of quiet country roads through farmland and forests and up into the foothills of both the Cascades and Coast Range.

If this will be your first time in the Albany area, you’re in for a real treat. As all of the NWTR routes start in the Valley, there are lots of options for mostly flat rides, as well as hilly rides, and even a short climb or two into the mountains if your legs are up for it!

Albany, Oregon – 2018 rally’s home away from home

The 2018 Northwest Tandem Rally will be centered in the historic town of Albany, the “Gem of the Willamette Valley.” Albany is the eleventh largest city in Oregon and is located at the confluence of the Calapooia and Willamette Rivers. Founded in approximately 1848 the town has the most varied collection of historic buildings in Oregon.

While you are in town, make sure to visit the pioneer-era Monteith House  and regional museums. Take the family to the Historic Albany Carousel & Museum or attend a River Rhythms outdoor concert on a Thursday summer evening.

Surrounding Albany is one of the most diversified agricultural areas of the state, featuring miles of quiet country roads, historic covered bridges, and a burgeoning wine, hops, and spirits industry. Schedule a visit to one of Albany’s incredible restaurants and vibrant coffee houses during your stay.

Stop by the Albany Visitors Association for maps, a visitors guide, and recommendations for family-friendly places to visit while you’re in town for the rally. AVA is open from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Mondays through Fridays, and on Saturdays (9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.) in the summer, and is located at 110 3rd Ave SE. Telephone 541-928-0911 for more information.

Accommodations and registration

Since the Fourth of July falls in the middle of the week this year, an extended rally is possible. You can stay an additional two days beyond the regular four-day schedule, and enjoy six days of riding through the scenic Willamette Valley. There’s even a bonus three or four day tour following the rally if you just can’t stop peddling.

For a full list of the NWTR accommodations, including the campgrounds at South Albany High School and rally hoteliers, and registration information, visit the 2018 NWTR website.

See you in Albany!

Wish Oregon a Happy 159th Birthday

Valentines Day is the perfect time to express your love for Oregon! The Monteith House Museum will host a free public Oregon birthday bash from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., Wednesday, February 14th, at the museum. at 518 2nd Ave SW.on February 14, 2018.

Have a slice of cake, tour the museum, and visit with like-minded historic Oregonians. The Monteith House was built in 1849, and is the oldest building in Albany. The Museum’s exhibits include information on the Monteiths and their contributions to early Albany as well as the State of Oregon.

The house was also integral to the formation of Oregon’s statehood: in 1856, the Monteiths hosted a meeting of the Free State Men in their home to discuss state formation. The following year, the group met again at the Monteith House and Oregon’s Republican Party was founded.

We hope to see you there! For more information, telephone 541-928-6375.

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