Mother of Alayna 9, Evan 5, wife of Brian. And oh yes, the Publisher

If you would have asked me some time ago what I’d be doing now, I’m certain my first dozen or so replies wouldn’t have included “sitting in the publisher’s chair of one of my favorite magazines!” Not because this isn’t a dream come true—it absolutely is.

In December of 2006 I became the owner of this publication, and immersed into furthering Portland Family’s mission. I’m fueled and fascinated by the importance of positive media and for making real differences in the community. I want you to feel there’s a place in the media world that provides quality content of both substance and relevance.

The term “family” holds infinite meaning and everyone’s experience of “family” is what makes life rich and fulfilling. Each page of Portland Family’s issues is dedicated to our shared pursuit of exploring family’s many facets.

My goal is for you to trust Portland Family as more than a resource, but as a source for connection and inspiration. Your ideas and opinions are the foundation for why Portland Family thrives. Cheers to your good health, personal fulfillment, and meaningful connections with all those you consider family. Thanks for joining us.

In addition to her duties as managing editor of Goodness and Portland Family Magazine, Mary Rarick couldn’t imagine life without her family, her girlfriends, Indian food, iced soy lattes and fabulous shoes. Her community involvement includes representing parents on Century High School’s Site Council and serving the homeless at her local food bank. Follow her blog on Portland Family Magazine and connect with her on Twitter @Mary_Rarick

Hello, my name is Helen and I am the proud mom of two beautiful children – JP who is autistic and Emily. I have been a part of the Portland Family Team as a driver since November 2006 and then took over as Distribution Manager in August of 2007. I have been reading Portland Family Magazine since my son was very small (approx 11 years) and have loved it! It’s been great watching the magazine change over the years and grow into what it is today. What first intrigued me about becoming a driver for Portland Family was all of the cool places that I’d get to visit that I haven’t gone to before and let’s face it–the money – smile. Now that I’ve transitioned into the role of Distribution Manager it has been an awesome experience. I have some of the best drivers on my team that are always there to do what it takes to get the magazine out to the community and bring on new locations to help the magazine reach new readers! Without our great drivers we wouldn’t be able to succeed as a magazine and for that I’m grateful – smile! If you’re looking for a little extra cash and would like to join this awesome team, just give us a call and we’d love to have you!!! – Happy Reading!!! Hugs, Helen

My blonde hair sun-kissed freckled 9 year old daughter…my ear folding thumb-sucking funny 4 year old son…mojitos (preferbly in Maui)…Jimmy Buffett…pansies…summer BBQ’s…anything with chocolate and carmel together…fall with crisp cool air and richly colored leaves…curry…incredibly soft cashmere to knit with…yarn stores…white peaches…the beach/the coast/the shore depending wherever in the world I am…white chocolate lattes…Baroque classical music…these are a few of my favorite things.

A perfect day for Tay Juncker would consist of reading The Lord of the Rings on the couch sandwiched by her malamutes while sipping pinot gris.

Although she’s been artistic her whole life, Tay really found her calling in graphic design. “There’s no excuse for ugly,” she says. “I don’t care if it’s an ad on the side of a bus, the container of pudding you are eating, or a four-color magazine spread, the purpose of graphic design should be to make the world prettier.” Tay is excited to bring her creativity to Portland Family Magazine. Tay and her partner of 15 years live in north Portland.