”You don’t get those little hairs in your food, and they really hold whatever liquid you are basting with.”For the environmentally conscious cook, consider Totally Bamboo cutting boards ($45). Bamboo is a better renewable resource than many hardwoods, as it is actually a big grass that takes only four to five years to grow. And, it’s always fun to get someone started with premium cookware such as All-Clad, professional-grade pots and pans that make any cook drool with desire. Start someone with an All-Clad 10-inch fry pan ($120), which Bernert says is her best seller. Then, let them buy the rest of the set themselves. There are also gifts to be had for the person who doesn’t set foot in a kitchen. Portland’s own Leatherman Tool Group, the clever company that brought the concept of the multi-tool to backpackers, mechanics and adventure geeks worldwide, has a new and improved line of its tools available for the holidays at local outdoor stores. The Leatherman Charge Ti ($124) is an 8.4-ounce powerhouse of a multi-tool. Packing 22 tools into 4 inches, it is made from materials such as titanium, bronze and diamond. Tool lovers will adore this thing. And for the Central Oregonian who lives to plan outdoor recreation, Radio Shack is offering the Ambient Wireless Weather Forecaster ($79.99). This 4-inch wireless tool allows people to quickly and visually check five-day weather forecasts without having to turn on the computer, radio or television. Happy holidays!