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Closer Look, your resource guide to western Washington County, will not only help you find the best places to buy a hammer, get a picture framed or enjoy a great meal but also show you where and when to access services, activities and events that make our little corner of Oregon unique. From festivals and fairs to recreational opportunities – or just a good place to get your teeth cleaned or your taxes done – this publication can help.

Whether it's the annual Verboort Sausage Festival, Forest Grove's Concours d'Elegance car show, the Banks Fourth of July celebration or Centro Cultural's Children's Day in Cornelius, you'll find the information you need in these pages.

Events and activities in Gaston, Hillsboro and North Plains are highlighted, too. Among Washington County's half-million inhabitants are some of the most creative, innovative and vibrant folks you'll ever chance to meet, and the fact we're regularly singled out as one of the most livable areas in the nation bears that out.

Proud purveyors of fine wines, organic produce, forest products and more, our entrepreneurs, business people and civic-minded residents make the most of the 722 square miles of property inside the county's borders.

We're a showcase for vibrant cultural and industrial diversity, too. Stroll the streets of downtown Forest Grove in the spring or summer and take in the Wednesday farmers market, Pacific University's annual lu'au or a play at Theatre in the Grove. Participate in a community Fun Run or see the sights at the Washington County Fair and Rodeo. Trek up to Hagg Lake and bike, fish or picnic.

It's all waiting for you, so jump right in. This guide, produced in cooperation with our local Chambers of Commerce, can help you plan your year. As you enjoy everything Washington County has to offer, remember to patronize the area businesses that keep your hard-earned dollars in your community. And enjoy every minute!