CMBA Member News

Bales’ new store director reinforces traditions

“Our long-time employees really know our customers,” says Greg Garcia, Bales’ new Store Director. “They hear about customer concerns, and we are listening to that and making some changes.” A big emphasis will be on restoring the level of customer service that people came to expect at the store.

Greg Garcia started his job at Bales on January 8. Previously he managed Grande Foods in Cornelius (formerly Hank’s) and prior to that worked in management at area Safeway and Albertson’s stores. He’s a local guy, born in Portland and now lives in Beaverton.

“We are re-engineering our deli and bakery to provide more in the way of ready-to-heat gourmet meals,” Garcia says. “We’re not getting rid of anything, just adding features and items. The bakery will be offering some wonderful single-serving European-style desserts. And we’ve hired a gourmet chef to prepare complete meals for shoppers to take home and heat.” They’re also bringing in a new line of deli cheeses and more imports, with a new “cheese steward” to help customers with selections.

The produce section, long known for a great selection of local fruits and vegetables, has been reorganized to make it easier for shoppers to find what they’re looking for. “It’s less decorative and more functional, and pretty close to the way it used to be,” Garcia says. The organic produce section has been expanded and now includes nearly 150 different kinds of fresh organic produce. “Of course, there will be more as the seasonal vegetables start to arrive in the spring,” he says.

While they are excited about the new gourmet offerings, Garcia wants long-time customers to know that they’re dedicated to maintaining and building customer relationships and to providing the basics at competitive prices.

Last year’s People’s Choice award winner in the adult category was "Peace-ing It Together," fused glass by Bill Zuelke. The artist said, “Building Peace requires all the pieces being put together, all people, all ages, all resources, all hope, all justice.  Everyone of us must work for peace.”

Call to Artists of all ages!

Enter the 2008 Search For Peace Art Exhibit to be held March 8-9 at St. Pius X. The Search For Peace welcomes any original artwork relating to peace and non-violence, by artists of all ages. Artists are welcome to enter the free exhibit, and enjoy the opportunity to sell their work with no commission taken.

The exhibit theme is “We Search For Peace in our Hearts, Peace in our Families, Peace in the World.” We encourage parents and teachers to talk with their children and students about peace and nonviolence, and to create related art works.

Everyone is a winner in the Search For Peace! Engraved Peace Medals, ribbons, and many other prizes will be awarded for each of the four age divisions. For entry forms and more information, and to see art works from last year’s exhibit go to www.SearchForPeaceArt.org or call 503 646-5449. Entries must be received by February 26, 2008.

Saturday, March 8,  Public Opening and Artist Reception 6:30-8:30 pm; Sunday, March 9, Public Exhibit 8:30 am to 3 pm in the St. Pius X Community Center, 1280 NW Saltzman Rd.

Village Gallery News

The February Group Show will feature artist David Hooten, an accomplished amateur photographer and professional print maker who applies his foundational skills in pastel and watercolor to his unique digital darkroom techniques. He says, “It is my sincere pleasure to share the perspective of my mind’s eye brushed into the fibers of digital embroidery.” The all-media show opens February 5 and ends March 2. The gallery is open Tuesday-Saturday 10-4 and Sunday noon-4. Bring your whole family and see what our local artists have been up to.

The Village Gallery also offers a wide assortment of classes for artists of all ages and abilities. February offerings include several different watercolor classes, childrens’ art classes, and craft workshops. For more information, visit the website at villagegalleryarts.org or call 503-644-8001.

Photo Restoration special offered

This is the time of year to restore your family heirlooms and here is a super reason to do it now! A first-time great offer from Sandy Sahagian portraiture on her award-winning restoration process, the best in the west!

$20 off the artwork part of restoring your old photograph! Never before available! This is a very special offer on great restoration work!!! Two weeks only!

Call for an appointment 503-297-2343. Find out more about our business at sandysphotos.com.

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