Independence, Oregon has a uniquely comfortable and cozy downtown area that is on the rise. The quaint buildings create a sense of going back in time while the shops and restaurants offer a surprising variety of gourmet cuisine and collectibles.

On Saturdays, Independence’s downtown picks up the pace a little bit and offers tourists and locals alike the best of Saturday Markets. With one in the parking lot of Umpqua Bank and another at the park, you’re sure to find the freshest and tastiest of fruits and vegetables. (When we were there last, the strawberries were fantastic, and the starter tomato plants were ready to take home.) There are also hand-crafted items like soap and hand creams.

On June 22, you’ll have one more reason to go downtown. I’ll be doing an author signing in front of Second Chance Books. Come by my table between 10 am and 2 pm and find something good to read. You might even be able to ask my wife about her penguins! Independence, Oregon’s, downtown is an amazing slice of Americana, but you don’t have to take my word for it… We look forward to seeing you downtown.