Saturday, March 8th, marks International Women’s Day. Started in 1911, the very first IWD was held in Austria, Denmark, Germany, and Switzerland, the day celebrates women’s achievements and contributions to society across the globe. It also promotes gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls. It’s an excellent opportunity to recognize the women entrepreneurs and leaders in Oregon, throughout the Willamette Valley and here in Corvallis. Here’s six women that we’d love to celebrate.
Opened in 2017, Castor is a staple in Corvallis, offering hungry patrons a taste of Ms. Lewis’ Southern upbringing. Open Mondays through Saturdays, the menu changes seasonally to reflect the freshest ingredients. Working closely with local purveyors, Ms. Lewis executes classic and creative dishes using French culinary techniques. At Lucca Taverna, she collaborates with her business partner and co-owner Evan Deffenbacher, offering Mediterranean plates, along with a hearty selection of wines and cocktails.
(Photos: First, Lucca Taverna, Corvallis, by Michele Colomb; Second, Castor Kitchen & Bar, Corvallis, by Isabella Medina)
This Oregon State University alumna, offers a personalized gifting experience with her custom baskets and boxes. Customers can curate their own selection for holidays, graduations, birthdays, and more. On the Bella Vino website you can select a pre-made assortment or fill out a custom order request. Huge plus - they also deliver on the weekends.
Founded in 2003 in neighboring Philomath, Mrs. Compton operates the family-owned winery along with her husband, Matt. Regenerative agriculture and sustainability is at the core of their ideology, minimizing the impact on the grapes, along with their environment. Across their 17-acre farm, you’ll find Katahdin sheep, KuneKune pigs, and pasture-raised chickens. Visit their inviting tasting room, which frequently hosts events.
(Photo: Compton Family Wines, Philomath, Oregon)
Ms. Thanyawarin, who’s the owner of PangDao Foods, sets up shop at the Corvallis Indoor Winter Market and the Corvallis Farmers Market, in addition to Albany and Philomath farmers markets. She's built a steady following, with foodie fans loving her fresh and authentic Thai food. Although the menu changes to reflect fresh ingredients of the season, Ms. Thanyawarin's pad thai and egg rolls are staples.
Nestled within the bucolic hills of the Willamette Valley in Monmouth, Ms. Olson purchased Airlie winery in 1997 with the vision that it would be a destination spot for oenophiles. The peaceful location showcases a pond and an idyllic picnic spot, along with a tasting room and an outdoor deck overlooking the coast range. Airlie’s thirty acres specializes in a good selection of both Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.
(Photo: Airlie Winery, Monmouth, Oregon)
A lifelong Corvallis resident, Shannon has been operating Corbin Bed and Breakfast for over ten years, welcoming visitors to her secluded property. With five rooms, a tiny cabin, and an adorable airstream to choose from, guests can enjoy their pick of cozy accommodations. Along with a host of amenities, guests can also rent e-bikes, sign up for a bread-making class, or select to add on a chef-made breakfast. Recently, Ms. Corbin launched her meal prep and local delivery service, aptly called Shannon’s Kitchen, which includes freshly-made meals delivered to your door weekly. Not only is it convenient for locals, it’s also a wonderful service for visitors.
Article by Jean Chen Smith. Keep up with Corvallis news, events and happenings by signing up for our email newsletter.
